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Mary, left, and Natalie Edl sharing life together in Boise. (Courtesy Photo/Mary Hersley-Kaineg) By Mary Hersley-Kaineg For the ICR “You have to make a place where you are….as you are,” said 95-year-old Mary Edl of Risen Christ parish. Mary recently moved to Boise from her family home in Payette to live with her daughter, Natalie Edl. After 50 years in the same house, Mary found the transition challenging. “It wasn’t even a real decision,” said Natalie. “Mom was no longer able to live alone, and it just seemed natural for me to say, ‘She can live with me.’” Mary was born in Wisc. and grew up on a farm near Madison. No high school was available to her, so her parents arranged for her to board with a family in Dodgeville, Wisconsin. Upon high school graduation, Mary entered nursing school in Milwaukee. She was offered a position at a Milwaukee hospital after completing her training. “But I had been away from home a very long time, so I decided to move back where I could be close to my family,” she explained. Once home, Mary began her lifelong nursing career when she accepted a position at the local hospital in Dodgeville. There, she met Joe Edl, one of the local farmhands. Joe was active in sports and especially loved baseball. He was a pitcher for the local summer baseball program and occasionally served as a catcher. After their marriage, Mary continued her nursing profession, and Joe continued his farmwork.          By the time three of their children were born, Joe realized he did not want to spend the rest of his life farming. By now, Joe was a talented mechanic, so in 1952, the family moved to Wyoming, where Joe began working on an oil rig and Mary continued her nursing profession. While in Wyoming, six more children were added to the family. In 1966, the family moved to a small farm in Payette, Idaho, where Mary lived for the next 50 years. Natalie, third of the nine Edl children, stayed in Wyoming and graduated from the University of Wyoming, majoring in geology. She soon found a position with Morrison-Knudson (MK) in Boise. After three years with MK, Natalie accepted a new position with the Idaho Transportation Department where she remained until she was eligible for retirement. During her time in Boise, Natalie has been active in her church. She was part of the Risen Christ Catholic Church building committee, working closely with Monsignor Joe DeSilva. Natalie is a gifted seamstress and has formed a sewing group that meets regularly at Risen Christ Church. The group makes “fidget” mats and other items for patients and residents of a local care facility. After her retirement, Natalie bought a house “with a huge backyard because I love to garden,” she said. “My dream of retirement was to have a lot of time for myself, to do all the ‘retirement’ things.” “When mom had her second stroke, it became obvious she could no longer be alone,” Natalie continued. “While my brother and sister lived very near to Mom, in houses on the same property, they had jobs to go to every day. While the family was discerning the best course of action, it occurred to me that the right thing to do was to invite Mom to come live with me,” said Natalie. “It wasn’t a real [difficult] decision. Mom ‘came home’ to Boise.” “I did not move well,” added Mary. “They moved a distraught, stressed-out lady, and I had to accept that there was no other option.” “It wasn’t difficult,” Natalie said, “though, of course, my priorities had to be shifted, some of my activities are now limited, and I’ve lost some of my autonomy.” “It’s okay,” laughed Mary. “There’s no fussing, and she (Natalie) accepts me as I am,” Mary said. “She has been very accepting of my tears. I have cried because I miss my old home. I miss my friends of many years, and I really miss my church family at Corpus Christi in Payette.” But we do have a lot of fun,” Natalie added. “I cherish this time I have with Mom. We laugh a lot, we pray a lot, and we do things together. We make applesauce, and we enjoy ‘near new’ shopping.” “In the end, this is the natural evolution of life events, and we are doing God’s will,” Natalie concluded.

At right, Roman Caywood during a Bronco practice session on the blue turf. The redshirt freshman turned to faith after an injury sidelined him for the 2024 season. (Courtesy Photo) By Philip A. Janquart ICR Assistant Editor A movement seems to have taken hold across the U.S., with athletes unapologetically proclaiming their faith in Jesus before the media in television interviews and newspaper reports. “As cool as it is to sit on this podium, there are a lot of things in life that I appreciate a little bit more,” Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard said, referring to his faith in a press conference before the Jan. 20 NCAA National Championship between the Fighting Irish and the Buckeyes of Ohio State University (OSU). Before the big game, OSU running back TreVeyon Henderson posted on X (formerly Twitter) that “We don’t have to be afraid to come to Jesus. He knows what we have done, and He still chose to die for you and me because He loves us. Put your faith in Jesus, and He will save you from sin and give you a new and eternal life. Don’t be afraid; follow Jesus.” Several Philadelphia Eagles players gave praise to Jesus following their Super Bowl LIX victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, as well as head coach Nick Sirianni and quarterback Jalen Hurts. (As an aside, former Boise State University quarterback and Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore was given much of the credit for the win and has already accepted the head coaching job with the New Orleans Saints.) Faith is one reason redshirt freshman Roman Caywood accepted a football scholarship offer at Boise State University where head coach Spencer Danielson recognized Jesus Christ after his team captured its second straight Mountain West Conference championship in December 2024. “Thank you, Jesus,” he told a FOX Sports reporter in a post-game interview. He added, “Jesus deserves all the glory. I mean, we serve a Champion. He died on the cross, but He rose again three days later. That’s the God I serve. Anything is possible. Our players don’t run from hard work. They just keep swinging…They deserve the credit. Jesus deserves the credit.” Father Nathan Dail and Roman Caywood at St. Paul's Student Center on the campus of Boise State University. (Courtesy Photo/Father Nathan Dail) Caywood is used to following men of faith. He belongs to a family of devout Catholics led by his father, Jason. “My dad is an amazing man, an amazing Catholic. The same goes for my mom (Melissa) and my two sisters (Norah, 10, and Ava, 17). I have an amazing family” he said. “My dad was adopted at birth. It was a closed adoption, and his birth mother’s only wish was that he go to a Catholic family; it’s something he takes very seriously. He knows he was born to be Catholic, and so our whole family is very religious. I grew up in that environment, which is amazing.” Caywood was recruited out of Corner Canyon High School, a 6A school in the Utah High School Athletic Association classification system. Corner Canyon High is located in Draper, Utah, not far from Caywood’s home in Holladay, a suburb of Salt Lake City. After visiting with the BSU coaching staff, Caywood knew where his next step would be. “My senior year in high school, I was excited to find that next place that would help me develop into the best football player and man that I could be,” the defensive end told the ICR . “Coming to Boise State was definitely the best decision of my life.” Caywood graduated early and arrived in Boise in January 2024. He attended spring camp and was healthy all summer, but an injury at the beginning of fall camp put him on the sidelines. He went through the healing process and, by the second game of the season, was ready to play. Unfortunately, things didn’t go the way he planned and, once again, found himself watching from the sidelines. “I got healthy for Oregon (the University of Oregon game) and played a snap on special teams,” he explained. “Then, that next week at practice, I reaggravated the injury and was out for the rest of the season.” It was a tough blow for a kid whose aim is to play in the NFL, but that’s where his faith came into action, helping him through the long healing process. “Looking at it, I think my spiritual growth and my relationship with Jesus has definitely been the most beneficial thing coming out of this injury,” Caywood said. “There were times where I would feel like I’m getting better, and then something would happen, I would kind of regress or aggravate the injury, but I just always leaned back on God, knowing He has a plan.” He added, “As bad as something might seem, everything happens for a reason, and good will always come out of the bad. God always puts blessings in disguise no matter what the situation, so recognizing those good things is key.” He said we all have a choice when carrying our respective crosses. “You can focus on the bad and feel bad about yourself, or you can get up and look at the good things, which has been a big thing for me—just doing what I could and being around my teammates, bringing good energy every day,” Caywood said. “That’s what I focused on, and I think that helped me a lot and helped me grow in my faith. Maybe that was part of God’s plan, for me to grow in my faith, and the injury was a way for me to figure that out.” Caywood attends St. Paul’s Student Center on the BSU campus, where Father Nathan Dail regularly presides at Mass. “He’s awesome, the way he’s able to keep everyone intrigued about what he is saying,” Caywood said of Father Dail. “He has an energy when he is talking, and it always keeps me engaged.” “I love seeing him at Mass,” Father Dail said of Caywood. “He has a massive tattoo of a cross on his arm, so he is obviously proud of his faith.”

The Chosen cast members were at the Ford Idaho Center on Feb. 1 to share their experiences playing their respective roles on the hit streaming series. From left, Shaan Sharma (Shmuel), Luke Dimyan (Judas), Elizabeth Tabish (Mary Magdelene) and Kirk B.R. Woller (Gaius). (Courtesy Photo/Kelly Jenkins) By Philip A. Janquart ICR Assistant Editor Unity, surrender, and God’s timing were key elements of "The Chosen: A Celebration of Jesus Christ" held at the Ford Idaho Center in Nampa on Feb. 1. Thousands attended the two free shows brought to Idaho by Christian Outreach Multimedia Events (C.O.M.E., Inc.). People of all faiths were invited to hear from “The Chosen” cast members as they shared spiritual insight and stories of personal growth through their respective character roles. On Friday, Jan. 31, organizers held a special VIP dinner to thank the many volunteers who worked to bring the event to fruition. Cast members Elizabeth “Liz” Tabish (Mary Magdelene), Luke Dimyan (Judas), Kirk B.R. Woller (Gaius), and Shaan Sharma (Shmuel) answered questions from a group of about 80. Shaan Sharma, who moderated the question-and-answer session, asked each cast member what they hope people take away from their respective portrayals and what the experience has meant to them. Liz Tabish said she hopes people will see that God forgives regardless of our sins, pointing out that Mary Magdelene, who she said was possessed and in the ‘depths of despair,’ was the first to see Jesus after His resurrection. “She gets to experience the most joyful moment in history,” she said, adding that, despite our past, joy can be found in the end. “I hope people who might identify with Mary Magdelene and see themselves in her see that their lives can have a very happy ending,” said Tabish. “Usually, when you do portrayals of women who have gone through assault and PTSD and trauma, it’s not a happy ending. “But with The Chosen … we see a complete transformation and a very realistic portrayal of growth, which is a little, ‘two steps forward and one step back.’ It’s a little messy, but also real and relatable and a reminder that if you make a mistake, God still loves you and you have to keep trying.” Luke Dimyan, who plays Judas in the series, added that it’s not our duty to judge others, regardless of their past or present. “There is no such thing as justifiable hate, no matter how far someone stumbles,” he said. “It’s easy to label someone simply as a villain or a miscreant, and it is quite literally in Christ’s teachings that we give them a second chance; everyone should be afforded that.” He expanded on Tabish’s thoughts on having a “happy ending,” explaining that we must be ready to receive forgiveness when asking Jesus for pardon. But Judas, he said, could not overcome the consequences of his actions. “Judas doesn’t even make it to the Crucifixion because he was so wracked with guilt and heartbreak, realizing that his betrayal of Jesus wasn’t just a trial, it wasn’t just a face-off with the Pharisees, it was a death sentence,” Dimyan said. The actor mused that we can assume Judas must have “begged for Jesus to be released” before the Crucifixion because Judas killed himself apparently from guilt and despair. "It’s more complicated than a simple villain story," he said. While there is no official teaching of the Church on the eternal fate of Judas, Dimyan spoke to those gathered at the Friday event, saying, “I hope that through this portrayal, you can see that there is salvation, no matter what you have done, what you are doing, or how people see you. I promise you, He won’t turn you away, no matter what. But you have to forgive yourself first; that’s first and foremost.” Luke Dimyan is surrounded by fans during a meet and greet Feb. 1 at the Ford Idaho Center. (Courtesy Photo/Kelly Jenkins) Shaan Sharma, citing his role as the Pharisee Shmuel, spoke about judging others. While visiting a local school, a teacher asked him how it felt to be “the Pharisee of Pharisees.” “Essentially, it was, ‘How does it feel to be the worst person ever on the show?’” he chuckled. “I told him I didn’t see it that way.’ I pointed out to him, ‘What has Shmuel done that is so wrong other than to protect his people?’ We all think we are right about something and have to find out painfully that we were wrong. Does that mean we are villains? Saul wasn’t so great before he was Paul. Shmuel is a fairly young man. He has time to come to God; it’s on God’s time. Kirk Woller spoke about his role as Gaius, based on the royal official who asks Jesus to heal his dying son in the Gospel of John (4:46-54). “The first line in that scene (Season 4, Episode 4) is ‘Lord,’” Woller said. He texted Dallas Jenkins’ wife Amanda about the meaning of the word. Kirk B.R. Woller plays 'Gaius' in The Chose series. (Courtesy Photo/Kelly Jenkins) Amanda provided him with a definition of “Lord,” from which Woller understood “surrender.” He elaborated on the impact of the word for himself, saying, “Look, I’m German. I’m meticulous. I want to be in control of everything. I work hard, and I’m disciplined … but sometimes you just have to surrender. Just let it go, dude; just let go.” The actors also shared about the way the show has generated community around the world. “Before going to Rome, I was very crushed … very isolated, very sad, lonely and lost,” Tabish said. “And playing this character, I got to watch her (Mary Magdelene) grow, and I got to grow with her. I watched Jesus teach and hear His parables and saw how this show affects everyone around the world. “I went from being such an isolated woman to having an enormous community of loving, faithful, wonderful people … all of these different cultures and communities connecting on this one thing. I felt a kind of burst in my heart, and I don’t feel isolated anymore. It has brought so much joy in my life.” Sharma added: “One of the things I want to impart … is that it takes four seasons for Simon and Matthew to hug it out and let it go, and yet they stayed at the table, following Jesus and did so much good along the way,” he said. “So, you can severely disagree with somebody and still follow God, work together and do good for the community and doing that might actually bring the two of you together.” Chosen casting director Beverly Holloway, a resident of Meridian, Idaho, shared a personal story about God's timing in her life and the inexplicable journey that led her in a direction she did not anticipate. With a home in Orange County, California, and an office in Culver City, a historic film and television production center, she felt a persistent urge to uproot and move to Meridian to be near her sister. In 2018, Holloway, who was baptized Christian at a church camp in middle school, followed her intuition, not knowing what the future would hold. “I had no clue; I just knew I was supposed to move,” she said. “I thought, ‘This is ridiculous; this is crazy.’ I said, ‘God, you know I’m in the film business, right? There is no film in Meridian.’” Soon after, she found herself unexpectedly divorced, her sister and brother-in-law the only family to lean on.   “I celebrated my 25-year wedding anniversary on March 13 and was up here by April 1. By June, my marriage was over, and I had no idea what was coming,” she said. “But God absolutely knew where I needed to be. He made sure I was in a place where I was safe and secure, where I could thrive.”   Not long after, director, writer, producer, and friend Dallas Jenkins called to request her services for a new project.   “Dallas called me and said, ‘Hey, I’m doing this show, this series. We are just doing the first four episodes. It’s kind of never been done before. We have no money, and people aren’t really going to understand what it is, but we are going to cast it.’ I was, like, ‘OK.’   “So, I did the commute to L.A., back and forth, and in the midst of all this stuff that was going on in my life, I discovered how much God loves us. You will never know what a gift he handed me in that phone call from Dallas at a time when there was so much instability.”   But God was not done with her. Six years later, she met the love of her life and was married.

Feast Day: February 27 By Emily Woodham Staff Writer Queen Elizabeth I took the throne of England in 1558. During her reign, which lasted until she died in 1603, nearly 1,000 Catholics were executed. She undid the pro-Catholic laws of her half-sister, Queen Mary, who executed 280 Protestants during her reign from 1553-1558.  In her persecution of Catholics, Elizabeth reserved the most violent death sentence (being hanged, drawn and quartered) for priests. Those who hid priests, such as St. Anne Line, were usually only tortured and then hanged.  St. Anne Line was born around 1563 into the Heigham family, wealthy English Protestants who had helped Henry VIII with the Reformation in England. She was given the name “Alice” at her baptism. When she was 20, she married Roger Line. Soon after, she and her husband, along with her brother, William, secretly became Catholic. Among Catholics, she used her new Confirmation name, “Anne,” after the mother of the Virgin Mary. Because Queen Elizabeth I demanded only obedience to the Church of England rather than a full confession of faith, many Catholics would attend the Protestant services and then attend a Catholic Mass in secret. Catholics would hide priests in secret rooms in their homes known as “priest holes.” Some wealthy Catholics were able to build secret rooms large enough for a chapel in which Mass could be celebrated. Anne's brother William was wealthy enough to hide a priest in his home in order to administer the Sacraments and offer the Mass. However, in 1586, someone reported him, and his house was raided during a Mass. The priest, William and her husband Roger were all arrested. The priest was hanged, drawn and quartered. William and Roger were tortured in prison and then disowned by their families because they refused to recant. Although Anne, who was pregnant at the time, was not imprisoned, her family and in-laws disowned her, as well. Anne's brother William was allowed to stay in England. Her husband Roger was exiled and went to Flanders. In solidarity with persecuted Catholics, the Spanish royalty gave Roger a pension, most of which he sent to Anne.  Anne gave birth to a healthy baby boy whom she named John. However, she had to surrender him to her in-laws for unknown reasons. It is assumed that due to her impoverishment and ill health, her in-laws persuaded her to give John to them for his well-being. About six years later, in 1594, Roger died in exile. After her husband's death, Anne began working for the Jesuits, who were sneaking priests into England. Father John Gerard, S.J., who headed the Jesuit missionaries in England, said she was one of the most capable women he had ever known. Another leader of the Jesuits said she was like the Roman matrons who courageously helped the persecuted ancient Christians. Father Gerard placed her in charge of the safe house in London, which needed the most care and prudence because of its location. She managed it so well that the Catholics called her “Mrs. Martha” after the busy St. Martha in the Gospels. Anne helped men who wanted to go to seminary in Europe and women who wanted to become Religious sisters. She also provided catechism classes to children. On Feb.2, 1601, the Mass of the Presentation of the Lord was celebrated at Anne’s home rather than the safe house. She permitted more people to attend than was prudent. During the blessing of the candles before the Mass, soldiers raided the house. Anne helped the priest escape, but she was arrested. She was imprisoned with two other priests who had been arrested at different sites. Her poor health quickly declined in the barbaric conditions. When she was brought to trial on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 25, she was so weak that officials had to carry her in a chair. When asked about the charges against her, she became strong and resolute. To the crowd’s amazement, she said that she wished she had entertained a thousand more priests. Anne was sentenced to death by hanging.  On Friday, Feb. 27, she was led to the scaffold with the two priests she met in prison. Anne was the first to be executed. Before the noose was put around her neck, she said, “I am sentenced to die for harboring a Catholic priest, and I am so far from repenting that I wish, with all my soul, that where I have entertained one, I could have entertained a thousand.”  One of the priests knelt and kissed her hand and the hem of her dress as she died. He and the other priest were hanged, drawn and quartered.  Anne’s body was dumped in a mass grave by the road. A countess sent servants to retrieve Anne’s body and to have her secretly buried with Mass. The stories of her courageous faith inspired many to convert to Catholicism and to be more faithful to the Catholic Church. St. Anne Line is the patron saint of childless people, converts and widows. Historians think she is also the inspiration for several of Shakespeare’s poems and works.  Santa Ana Line Fiesta: 27 de febrero Por Emily Woodham Colaboradora La reina Isabel I subió al trono de Inglaterra en 1558. Durante su reinado, que duró hasta su muerte en 1603, fueron ejecutados casi 1,000 católicos. Anuló las leyes pro-católicas de su hermanastra, la reina María, que ejecutó a 280 protestantes durante su reinado de 1553-1558. En su persecución de los católicos, Isabel reservó la pena de muerte más violenta (ser ahorcado, arrastrado y descuartizado) para los sacerdotes. Los que ocultaban a los sacerdotes, como Santa Ana Line, por lo general sólo eran torturados y luego ahorcados. Santa Ana Line nació hacia 1563 en el seno de la familia Heigham, ricos protestantes ingleses que habían ayudado a Enrique VIII con la Reforma en Inglaterra. En su bautismo recibió el nombre de “Alice”. A los 20 años se casó con Roger Line. Poco después, ella y su marido, junto con su hermano Guillermo, se hicieron católicos en secreto. Entre los católicos, utilizó su nuevo nombre de confirmación, “Ana”, la madre de la Virgen María. Como Isabel sólo exigía obediencia a la Iglesia de Inglaterra en lugar de una confesión de fe completa, muchos católicos asistían a los servicios protestantes y luego asistían a una Misa católica en secreto. Los católicos escondían a los sacerdotes en habitaciones secretas de sus casas conocidas como “agujeros de sacerdote”. Algunos católicos ricos pudieron construir habitaciones secretas lo suficientemente grandes como para albergar una capilla para celebrar Misa. Su hermano Guillermo era lo suficientemente rico como para esconder a un sacerdote en su casa para los sacramentos y la Misa. Sin embargo, en 1586, alguien le denunció y su casa fue asaltada durante una Misa. El sacerdote, Guillermo y su esposo Roger fueron arrestados. El sacerdote fue ahorcado y descuartizado. Guillermo y Roger fueron torturados en prisión y luego repudiados por sus familias porque se negaron a retractarse. Aunque Ana, que estaba embarazada en ese momento, no fue encarcelada, su familia y su familia política también la repudiaron. A Guillermo se le permitió quedarse en Inglaterra. Su esposo Roger fue desterrado y se marchó a Flandes. En solidaridad con los católicos perseguidos, la realeza española concedió a Roger una pensión, la mayor parte de la cual envió a Ana. Ana dio a luz a un niño sano al que llamó Juan. Sin embargo, tuvo que entregarlo a su familia política por razones desconocidas. Se supone que, debido a su empobrecimiento y mala salud, sus suegros la convencieron de que les entregara a Juan por su bienestar. Unos seis años más tarde, en 1594, Roger murió en el exilio. Tras la muerte de su esposo Roger, Ana empezó a trabajar para los jesuitas, que introducían sacerdotes a escondidas en Inglaterra. El Padre John Gerard, S.J., que dirigía a los misioneros jesuitas en Inglaterra, dijo que era una de las mujeres más capaces que había conocido. Otro dirigente de los jesuitas dijo que era como las matronas romanas que ayudaban valientemente a los antiguos cristianos perseguidos. El Padre Gerard la puso al frente del piso franco de Londres, que por su situación requería el mayor cuidado y prudencia. Lo gestionó tan bien que los católicos la llamaron “señora Marta”, por la ocupada Santa Marta de los Evangelios. Ana ayudaba a los hombres que querían ir al seminario en Europa y a las mujeres que querían ser religiosas. También daba clases de catecismo a los niños. El 2 de febrero de 1601, la Misa de la Presentación del Señor se celebró en casa de Ana en lugar de en el piso franco. Ella permitió que asistiera más gente de lo prudente. Durante la bendición de las velas antes de la Misa, los soldados asaltan la casa. Ana ayudó al sacerdote a escapar, pero fue detenida. Fue encarcelada con otros dos sacerdotes que habían sido arrestados en lugares diferentes. Su mal estado de salud empeora rápidamente en esas condiciones de barbarie. Cuando la llevaron a juicio el 25 de febrero, Miércoles de Ceniza, estaba tan débil que los funcionarios tuvieron que llevarla en una silla. Cuando le preguntaron por los cargos que se le imputaban, se mostró fuerte y decidida. Ante el asombro de la multitud, dijo que ojalá hubiera entretenido a mil sacerdotes más. Ana fue condenada a morir en la horca. El viernes 27 de febrero, fue conducida al patíbulo con los dos sacerdotes que había conocido en prisión. Ana fue la primera en ser ejecutada. Antes de que le pusieran la soga al cuello, dijo: “Estoy condenada a morir por albergar a un sacerdote católico, y estoy tan lejos de arrepentirme que desearía, con toda mi alma, que donde he resguardado a uno, hubiera podido resguardar a mil”. Uno de los sacerdotes se arrodilló y besó su mano y el dobladillo de su vestido mientras moría. Él y el otro sacerdote fueron ahorcados y descuartizados. El cuerpo de Ana fue arrojado a una fosa común junto a la carretera. Una condesa envió sirvientes para recuperar el cuerpo de Ana y enterrarla en secreto con una Misa. Las historias de su valiente fe inspiraron a muchos a convertirse al catolicismo y a ser más fieles a la Iglesia católica. Santa Ana Line es la patrona de las personas sin hijos, los conversos y las viudas. Los historiadores la consideran también inspiradora de varios poemas y obras de Shakespeare.

Roman Catholic Diocese of Boise February 14, 2025 Bishop Peter F. Christensen expressed his support for the statement issued by Archbishop Timothy Broglio, President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). Bishop Christensen noted that Archbishop Broglio’s message is highly relevant for the Diocese of Boise. Bishop Christensen’s endorsement underscores its significance for our Idaho diocese.   Archbishop Broglio's statement can be found below. Bishop Peter Christensen, M.A., D.D. Roman Catholic Diocese of Boise 1501 S. Federal Way, Suite 400 Boise, Idaho 83705

Pope Francis prays during a general audience on Feb. 5.(Credit/Vatican Media) By Deacon Scott Pearhill ICR Editor On Tuesday, Feb. 18, a Vatican statement re-ported that Pope Francis has been diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs. The statement said the Holy Father’s latest test results reveal a "complex" medical condition. The 88-year-old Pontiff had the upper lobe of his right lung removed as a young man and is prone to bouts of bronchitis in the winter, the Associated Press reported on Friday, Feb. 14. “He is in good spirits and is grateful for the prayers for his recovery," Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said on Tuesday, Feb. 18. Bruni explained, “The follow-up chest CT scan which the Holy Father underwent this afternoon" demonstrated the "onset of bilateral pneumonia, which required additional drug therapy.” Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on Friday, Feb. 14, to undergo testing and treatment for bronchitis, the Vatican Press Office said. Bronchitis can lead to pneumonia, which can develop in one or both lungs. When both lungs are affected, it is a more serious situation because there is less healthy lung tissue to compensate for the effects of respiratory illness. At the time of reporting, there has been no indication that the Pope is using supplemental oxygen, and the Vatican Press Office has reported that the Holy Father has eaten breakfast every day, is reading the newspapers and has done some work from his hospital room. The Feb. 18 online edition of the National Catholic Reporter reported that “Despite his ongoing hospitalization, the pope has continued his almost daily calls with the Catholic parish in Gaza that he has spoken with each night since Israel's war against Hamas began in 2023. According to its pastor, Pope Francis called as recently as Feb. 17. ‘He was tired but with a clear voice,’ said Father Gabriel Romanelli. ‘He asked how we were and thanked us with prayers, and gave us his blessing.’” A rainbow appeared over Gemelli Hospital on Tuesday afternoon, Feb. 18, and Francis received get-well drawings and cards from children being treated in the hospital’s oncology ward, the Associated Press reported. Rome's Gemelli Hospital features a 10th-floor suite reserved for treating popes. On Monday, Feb. 17, a Vatican Press Office statement said, “Pope Francis is touched by the numerous messages of affection and closeness that he has been receiving in recent hours; he especially wants to extend his thanks to those who are hospitalized at this time, for the affection and love they have expressed through drawings and messages of good wishes; he prays for them and asks that they pray for him.” Please join Bishop Peter Christensen in praying that Pope Francis returns to full health. Lord Jesus, Good Shepherd, look kindly on Pope Francis, your vicar on earth, and grant him relief from his sufferings. To this faithful guardian of your Church, send an angel to shield and protect him. To this Priest who comforted and anointed the sick, now bring peace in his own time of trial. To this herald who has bravely proclaimed your Gospel, give the consolation of your word. Hear the prayers of those who trust in you, O Risen Lord and Savior, who are seated at the right hand of the Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Photo by Vatican News On Tuesday, Feb 18, a Vatican statement reported that Pope Francis has been diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs. The statement said the Holy Father’s latest test results reveal a "complex" medical condition. On Monday, Feb 17, a Vatican Press office statement said, “Pope Francis is touched by the numerous messages of affection and closeness that he has been receiving in recent hours; he especially wants to extend his thanks to those who are hospitalized at this time, for the affection and love they have expressed through drawings and messages of good wishes; he prays for them and asks that they pray for him.” Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Friday, Feb. 14, to undergo testing and treatment for bronchitis, the Vatican said. Please join Bishop Peter Christensen in praying that Pope Francis returns to full health.

Feast Day: February 20 The Death of Saint Eucherius stained glass window at Our Lady’s Church, Sint-Truiden, Limburg, (Flemish Region), Belgium. By Emily Woodham Staff Writer From the fifth to the ninth centuries, a Germanic tribe called the Franks extended their rule from modern-day Germany through France into Italy and the tip of Spain. Although the height of the Frankish Empire was achieved under the rule of Charlemagne (768-814), his ambitious and temperamental grandfather, Charles Martel (“the Hammer,” 718-741) was responsible for re-establishing the Franks as the masters of all Gaul. Charles Martel was considered unstoppable. He lost only the first battle for Cologne in his many military campaigns, but later returned and conquered the city. “The Hammer” didn’t meet his match until he crossed paths with St. Eucherius, Bishop of Orleans. Saint Eucherius was born into nobility around 687 near Orleans, France. His devout parents sent him to a Benedictine monastery for his education. He was an excellent student and known for his cheerful disposition. (Some think his name is tied to his love of the Eucharist, but his name is Latin and means “good grace.”) Little is known about his years growing up. When he was 27, he entered the monastery at Jumièges. In his excitement to be accepted, he threw himself fully into all the practices and penances of the community. However, over time, he became so enthralled with the Real Presence of the Eucharist that he would be found kneeling at the tabernacle for hours. He would only leave the altar when ordered to do so. He also had a deep love for the Blessed Virgin Mary. In 721, his uncle, the Bishop of Orleans, died. The people begged the Benedictines to let them elect Eucherius as the next bishop, but Eucherius was horrified by the prospect. He preferred the contemplative life in the monastery and wanted nothing to do with the busy life of running a diocese. Undaunted, the people appealed to their new ruler, Charles Martel, to force Eucherius to accept the bishopric of Orleans.  The people of Orleans had been a part of a sect that fought with Charles. Charles saw an opportunity to ingratiate himself with the people of Orleans by pressuring Eucherius to accept the role of bishop. Eucherius obeyed. The people of Orleans loved the future saint. They admired him for his integrity, humility and joy. He visited families throughout his See, fed the poor with his hands, and diligently ensured the proper catechesis of the priests and laity. In 732, Charles went to Poitiers to stop an invasion from the Muslim Kingdom of al-Andalus. After a grueling battle, Charles and his army won. To reward his soldiers for their heroic fighting, Charles seized lands from churches and awarded them to his men. Charles probably justified the act because the soldiers had protected Christianity by stopping the invasion. But Eucherius did not see the seizing of Church property in any positive light. “How dare you oppress the Church, which God has instructed you to defend?” Eucherius wrote in a letter to Charles. “Know that Jesus Christ will ask you to account for the evils you have made His members suffer; by touching the goods of the churches, you attack God Himself!” Charles was furious when he read the letter. He placed Eucherius under house arrest in Cologne. Charles also confiscated Eucherius’s family lands and gave them to the soldiers. However, the governor of Cologne found Eucherius to be wise and loving. So, he placed Eucherius over the distribution of alms in Cologne. This allowed Eucherius to minister to the poor and sick. Within months, people were flocking to Eucherius for advice and prayers.  Charles flew into a rage when he heard about the popularity of Eucherius in Cologne. He transferred Eucherius to Liege, Belgium. But the governor of Liege also thought Eucherius was too holy to be under house arrest. At last, Charles permitted Eucherius to go to a monastery in the Netherlands near Maastricht. Eucherius lived the rest of his days in the peaceful prayer and rhythm of life as a monk, which he had desired for more than 20 years. He outlived Charles by two years. They never reconciled. St. Eucherius died on February 20, 743. Miracles were reported at his tomb, and he was immediately venerated as a saint. Santos:Eucherius de Orleans Fiesta: 20 de febrero Por Emily Woodham Colaboradora Entre los siglos V y IX, una tribu germánica llamada los francos extendió su dominio desde la actual Alemania hasta Italia y el extremo de España, pasando por Francia. Aunque el apogeo del Imperio franco se alcanzó bajo el mandato de Carlomagno (768-814), su ambicioso y temperamental abuelo, Carlos Martel («el Martillo», 718-741) fue el responsable de restablecer a los francos como amos de toda la Galia. Carlos Martel se consideraba imparable. Sólo perdió la primera batalla por Colonia en sus numerosas campañas militares, pero más tarde regresó y conquistó la ciudad. «El Martillo» no conoció a su rival hasta que se cruzó en su camino con San Eucherius, obispo de Orleans. San Eucherius nació en la nobleza hacia 687 cerca de Orleans (Francia). Sus devotos padres le enviaron a un monasterio benedictino para su educación. Fue un excelente estudiante y conocido por su carácter alegre. (Algunos piensan que su nombre está ligado a su amor por la Eucaristía, pero su nombre viene del latín y significa «buena gracia»). Poco se sabe de su infancia. A los 27 años, ingresa en el monasterio de Jumièges. En su entusiasmo por ser aceptado, se entregó de lleno a todas las prácticas y penitencias de la comunidad. Sin embargo, con el tiempo, quedó tan cautivado por la Presencia Real de Jesús en la Eucaristía que pasaba horas arrodillado ante el sagrario. Sólo abandonaba el altar cuando se lo ordenaban. También sentía un profundo amor por la Santísima Virgen María. En 721, murió su tío, el obispo de Orleans. El pueblo suplicó a los benedictinos que le permitieran elegir a Eucherius como próximo obispo, pero a Eucherius le horrorizaba la perspectiva. Prefería la vida contemplativa en el monasterio y no quería tener nada que ver con la ajetreada vida de dirigir una diócesis. Inconmovible, el pueblo apeló a su nuevo gobernante, Carlos Martel, para que obligara a Eucherius a aceptar el obispado de Orleans. El pueblo de Orleans había formado parte de una secta que luchó con Carlos. Carlos vio la oportunidad de congraciarse con el pueblo de Orleans presionando a Eucherius para que aceptara el cargo de obispo. Eucherius obedeció. El pueblo de Orleans amaba al futuro santo. Le admiraban por su integridad, humildad y alegría. Visitaba a las familias de toda su sede, alimentaba a los pobres con sus manos y velaba diligentemente por la correcta catequesis de sacerdotes y laicos. En 732, Carlos se dirigió a Poitiers para detener una invasión del reino musulmán de al-Andalus. Tras una dura batalla, Carlos y su ejército vencieron. Para recompensar a sus soldados por su heroica lucha, Carlos confiscó tierras de las iglesias y se las concedió a sus hombres. Carlos probablemente justificó el acto porque los soldados habían protegido a la cristiandad al detener la invasión. Pero Eucherius no veía con buenos ojos la confiscación de los bienes de la Iglesia. “¿Cómo te atreves a oprimir a la Iglesia, que Dios ha ordenado defender?”, escribió Eucherius en una carta a Carlos. “Sabed que Jesucristo os pedirá cuentas de los males que habéis hecho sufrir a sus miembros; al tocar los bienes de las iglesias, ¡atacáis al mismo Dios!”. Carlos se puso furioso cuando leyó la carta. Puso a Eucherius bajo arresto domiciliario en Colonia. Carlos también confiscó las tierras de la familia de Eucherius y se las dio a los soldados. Sin embargo, el gobernador de Colonia encontró a Eucherius sabio y cariñoso. Así que le encargó la distribución de limosnas en Colonia. Esto le permitió atender a los pobres y a los enfermos. En pocos meses, la gente acudía a Eucherius en busca de consejo y oraciones. Carlos montó en cólera al enterarse de la popularidad de Euherius en Colonia. Trasladó a Eucherius a Lieja, Bélgica. Pero el gobernador de Lieja también pensó que Eucherius era demasiado santo para estar bajo arresto domiciliario. Finalmente, Carlos permitió que Eucherius fuera a un monasterio en los Países Bajos, cerca de Maastricht. Eucherius vivió el resto de sus días en la oración pacífica y el ritmo de vida de un monje, que había deseado durante más de 20 años. Vivió dos años más que Carlos. Nunca se reconciliaron. San Eucherius murió el 20 de febrero de 743. Ocurrieron milagros apenas murió y fue venerado inmediatamente como santo.

Emily and Dylan Prigge with their son Leo. (Courtesy Photos/Emily Prigge) By Emily Woodham Staff Writer Tests that screen newborns for illnesses are routine. Most families never have to worry about test results for their newest member. When Leo Prigge was born in Cottonwood on May 1, 2021, he seemed just as healthy as his older three siblings. However, when he was 11 days old, his parents got a phone call from the pediatrician with bad news: Leo’s result was flagged for SCID (severe combined immunodeficiency).  “We had to go to St. Luke’s in Boise immediately,” said Emily Prigge, Leo’s mother. “We had to isolate from all people to keep away from germs and begin a lot of testing.” After almost two weeks in the hospital, the doctors still could not pinpoint Leo’s exact disease. They knew only that he had something wrong with his immune system. Another team of doctors in Seattle was included to help diagnose Leo. The teams in Seattle and Boise decided to send Leo home with medication and instructions to isolate with his family until a diagnosis could be made. For eight months Leo continued in isolation with his family and had weekly blood work.  “There was a lot of stress and anxiety for all of us during those eight months,” Emily said. “We knew the only thing to do was surrender completely to God and let Him guide us through our scary time. We prayed the Surrender Novena constantly and had the most amazing prayer warriors with us along our journey.” In January of 2022, doctors finally discovered what was wrong. He had a gene mutation involving immune deficiency, the second known case in the United States. Leo needed a bone marrow transplant. The Prigge family rented an Airbnb in Seattle and began the process of the bone marrow transplant at Seattle Children’s Hospital.  “Gianna, our eldest daughter, was Leo’s perfectly matched donor—a huge blessing. She was so brave and had a procedure to extract some of her bone marrow from her hips to give to her baby brother,” Emily said. “Then came the hard part: My husband, Dylan, and I had to say goodbye to our big kids for 40 days so we could stay in isolation with Leo. It was an eerie feeling walking to our hospital room on the oncology floor. The rooms were full of beautiful children, some just three months old, fighting for their lives.” The older Prigge children went back to Cottonwood to stay with extended family. Leo received five days of chemo to wipe out his small immune system. Transplant day was on Feb. 25. “It was very anticlimactic. A small bag of Gianna’s bone marrow was infused into Leo in about 30 minutes. That was it!” Emily said. That evening was Leo’s first time in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). The experience was frightening. Emily recalled, “We had a one-night stay in one of the most intense, gut-wrenching places on earth. The cries, the screams, the beeping are forever ingrained in my memory. God bless all the beautiful people we encountered, all the precious children fighting for their lives, and all the dedicated healthcare workers making a difference.” After only one night in the PICU, Leo was transferred to a regular room. While there, they waited for his sister’s cells to bond with Leo’s body, an outcome known as “engraftment.” At the same time, the effects of chemotherapy became more prominent.  “Each day we saw Leo getting weaker and weaker,” Emily said “Finally, he quit eating. Then his drool became out of control, and his throat started swelling.” Leo had mucositis, inflammation of the mucous membranes. He had to go back to the PICU and was intubated for eight days.  “That was our low point. They were the most intense days of my life. Leo was on a ventilator and given a crazy amount of drugs, and we were told to wait. God worked in so many ways during this time. By His grace, we remained calm and confident,” Leo’s mom affirmed. As engraftment began within Leo’s body, his swelling decreased, and he stabilized. Dylan and Emily were trained to care for Leo: how to give him a magnesium drip, care for his intravenous line and how to give him medication through his tubes.  “We felt like we went through an intense med school training in a 24-hour period.” Emily recalled, “We were discharged from the hospital and sent to the Ronald McDonald apartment a few blocks away. Our big kids joined us the next day.” The Prigges stayed at the apartment until June. During that time, Leo needed to go to the emergency room only twice. “We experienced so many beautiful moments during our stay in Seattle. We saw so much pain and suffering, but in the midst of everything, we saw God. He never left our side,” Emily said. “One incredible moment was on Good Friday,” she added. “During the most solemn hour of the year, at 3 p.m., I was holding Leo, sleeping peacefully in my arms while he was having a blood transfusion. It was a powerful, beautiful, moving moment.” Bishop Peter Christensen visited the Prigges soon after they returned to Cottonwood. He prayed over the family and anointed Leo. More than two years later, Leo continues to thrive. “We had incredible support from family, friends and our community. We had numerous people praying novenas for Leo, and also had people pray over him before the transplant. God set a path up for us very beautifully. Leo has checkups and blood draws only every three months and yearly checkups in Seattle,” Emily said. The Prigges are also grateful for modern medicine and their medical team. “We will never forget any of them.” Along with the Surrender Novena, the Prigges developed a stronger devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary during Leo’s healing journey. Emily recalled, “We prayed to Blessed Carlos Acutis, St. Leo, St. Andrew, St. Gianna, as well as our dear friend, Dave Spencer, who died shortly after Leo was born. He was the husband of one of my best friends. He drowned. He knew who Leo was and prayed for him before his tragic death.” Praying together as a couple and as a family sustained the Prigges through the trials. “My husband was my absolute rock through all of this. Having a calm, prayerful, trusting partner made the most difficult moments bearable,” Emily said.  “We will find out soon if our fifth child will have Leo’s same condition, so prayers are greatly appreciated,” said Emily. She added, “We encourage surrender to God in all aspects of your life. Give your cross to God, let Him guide you, and never waste any sacrifice given to you! So many graces come through your sacrifices!” More than two years later, Leo continues to thrive. Gianna (center, holding Leo), was the perfect match to donate bone marrow. Ava (left) and Milo (right) spent 40 days apart from their parents during Leo’s transplant.

Olivia Wieber receives the 2025 Pro-Life Warrior Award. (ICR Photo/Vero Gutiérrez) By Emily Woodham Staff Writer Biking for Babies is expanding their missionary work to the Pacific Northwest. The Catholic nonprofit organization raises funds for pregnancy centers through marathon bike rides of about 600 miles at different locations on the East Coast and Midwest. “We want to build on the connections we have in Boise with Angels Among Us, Birthright and Olivia Wieber, who was in the bike ride last summer,” said Chris Massaro, director of mission advancement for Biking for Babies. Angels Among Us, Inc. is an organization in Boise that assists other nonprofits and individuals on a case-by-case basis. After hearing about Biking for Babies, their board brought Massaro to Boise to speak at St. Paul’s Student Center at Boise State. Olivia Wieber, a parishioner of St. Mary’s Parish in Boise and a student at Boise State, joined Biking for Babies after hearing Massaro’s presentation. Wieber recently spoke at the March for Life in Boise. For more information about Biking for Babies, visit bikingforbabies.com .

Shannon and Shelly Batman to offer marital enrichment retreat over Valentine’s weekend Shelly and Shannon Batman in Giverny, France, at the home of Claude Monet, in 2024. (Courtesy Photo/Shelly Batman) The world is facing a crisis. So many young people choose not to marry and start a family. The dynamic duo of marital enrichment can help! Shannon and Shelly Batman, known in the Diocese of Boise for leading “Dynamic Marriage” and “Habits for a Healthy Marriage,” are part of the St. John’s Marriage Enrichment Team. They are providing a marriage enrichment opportunity on Feb.14-15 at St. John’s Cathedral (scan the QR Code for more information). I asked the St. John’s team why it is offering this marriage event now. Shelly shared, “First, it is the Jubilee Year of Hope; second, National Marriage Week is February 7-14; and third, it is Valentine’s Day! “What a perfect time to offer a series of talks that will hopefully provide couples with hope, inspiration and insight into themselves and their marriages. In our marriage journey, learning about God’s plan for marriage has been instrumental to our hope and healing.” Shelly pointed out that Catholic couples often do not understand the beauty of a sacramental marriage. At the Feb. 14 and 15 event, couples will discover how to become better spouses and enjoy a more fulfilling marriage. The Batmans are no strangers to struggles in their own married relationship, and they found that the teachings of the Church helped them on their journey to renewal, and forgiveness and the healing of their marriage. They became so convinced by what they learned that they wanted to help other couples on their healing journey. Many couples do not nurture their relationships on a regular basis. “To maintain a strong and fulfilling marriage requires that it be a priority in the life of both spouses. It requires time and effort from both. As Father Mike Schmitz recently explained, ‘There is no difference between love and attention,’” Shelly Batman explained. “Without a conscious effort to prioritize our marriages, they will wither, and spouses will drift apart. Through our facilitation of ‘Dynamic Marriage’ and ‘Habits for a Healthy Marriage,’ we have found that some couples, over time, will begin to experience dysfunctional habits. Through these classes, couples are provided a platform that encourages self-reflection and a roadmap to transform dysfunctional habits into productive habits,” Shelly said. Shannon Batman shared, “Marriage is not meant to be a stagnant relationship. If it does become stagnant, it slips backward, which puts it in peril. People change, life changes, so it is important to continue working on your marriage to keep it from becoming stagnant.” The Batmans explained that parishes can be a principal place for marriage renewal. Couples learn more about the Sacrament of Marriage in their churches, where they gain insights into our faith for becoming stronger spouses in Christ. The witness of other Catholic married couples is powerful: they share how they live and love Christ through one another. “The Catholic church provides wonderful programs for marriage preparation. However, it is not until we get into the trenches of marriage that we start to struggle with the challenges and distractions of the world and the effects of those on our marriage. It is hard to find marriage enrichment formats where couples can learn together, connecting and sharing God’s plans for marriage with practical applications of these principles to their own marriages,” Shelly shared. Shannon agreed, “Marriage is foundational to a healthy society. Marriage reflects the love that Christ has for his Church. It is imperative that parishes provide tools for couples to use to strengthen their marriage and their relationship with God.” I asked the Batmans what the Feb. 14 and 15 enrichment will offer couples. Shelly commented, “Whether you have a good marriage, a struggling marriage, whether you are engaged or single, this series will provide something for everyone!” The Batmans explained that clergy will provide a refresher on God’s teachings about marriage, followed by testimonies from couples about how this knowledge has helped in their marriage. Activities to apply this knowledge and experience to couples’ own marriages will follow the presentations. Shelly added, “We hope that couples will be renewed by a knowledge of God’s plan for marriage and how we can apply three foundational concepts to our marriages: self-knowledge, sacramental knowledge, and servant-knowledge. These will help spouses grow together and experience a more fulfilling marriage.” “The world and secular society have muddied the meaning of marriage to the point that we can become confused about what marriage is and what it means. We all desire to be loved unconditionally for our whole life. The Catholic Church teaches us that we are loved this way, and this healthy relationship requires giving ourselves to the other. In contrast, the world encourages us to ask, ‘What’s in it for me?’” said Shelly. “When we change our view from selflessness to selfishness, love dies. We often think that the opposite of love is hate, but the opposite of love is selfishness. The world teaches selfishness; the Church teaches selflessness. Selfishness leads to an inward focus that spirals into discontent, dysfunction, depression, and anxiety. Selflessness leads to a focus of gratitude, humility, peace and contentment,” Shelly explained. Shannon agreed, “Society has glorified the individual and the concept of ‘do whatever I want to satisfy me.’ This is counter to the sacrifice that is critical to a healthy marriage. God also intended marriage to be blessed by the procreation of children. But children are now seen as a hindrance to individuality.” The Batmans noted that couples need to invest in their relationships. What is vowed in marriage is not a one-and-done proposition. “Much like a car needs oil changes and maintenance to continue running at peak performance, a marriage needs continual nurturing and maintenance to function, grow and advance the couple on their mutual journey to heaven,” Shannon noted. Shelly concluded, “There are annual continuing education requirements in most professions. Couples need to invest in their marriage in this same way by attending events that can educate and strengthen their marriage. It’s a choice…invest in your marriage and grow together instead of drifting apart.” Have a blessed Marriage Week, Feb 7-14, 2025!

Father Solanus Casey’s journey toward canonization Vestments, chalice, paten and pillow used by Blessed Solanus at his first Mass, July 31, 1904. (Courtesy Photos/solanuscasey.org) By Maria Joyce For the ICR Maria Joyce is a teacher at Sacred Heart Catholic School in Boise and the great-grandniece of Blessed Solanus Casey. This is the fifth and final article by Joyce introducing the virtuous life of her great grand-uncle to ICR readers. “Tomorrow will be a wonderful day,” Father Solanus Casey declared to his provincial, Father Gerald Walker, OFM, Cap., on July 30, 1957. Indeed, the next day he passed into eternal life at 11:00 a.m. His funeral Mass on Aug. 3, 1957, drew people from all walks of life, Jewish and Protestant ministers, doctors and his beloved poor. However, death did not deter his faithful friends from seeking his intercession. Devotees slipped through the side gate of the monastery cemetery and quickly wore a path to Father Solanus’ grave. Within six years of his death, the laity urged the Capuchins to begin the steps toward Father Solanus’ canonization. They were inspired by the humble friar’s holy life and the stories of divine intervention. Collecting his story In early 1958, Provincial Father Gerald Walker OFM Cap., sent a report to Rome detailing the virtuous life of Father Solanus Casey. The report was happily approved. Two years later, Clare and Dan Ryan founded the Father Solanus Guild with the permission of the Capuchins. within a relatively short time, The Guild’s “greater audience” became the world. At the request of the Guild, James Patrick Derum wrote a biography of Solanus in 1968, T he Porter of Saint Bonaventure’s: The Life of Father Solanus Casey, Capuchin . Much of the early recollections of Father Solanus’ life come from his brother, Monsignor Edward Casey, who spent a week traveling with James Derum, during which they visited the Casey family homes at Oak Grove, Trimbelle and Burkhardt, Wisc. Within six years, the Guild made progress in collecting first-hand accounts of healings attributed to the intercession of Father Solanus. After numerous reports of divine “favors” from the Guild and others, the Capuchins took the lead for the Cause of Canonization and began their work in earnest by sending a report to Rome. In 1976, Detroit’s Archbishop John Cardinal Dearden requested all of Father Solanus’ writings. Bound together, they fill four volumes. After reviewing the material during the canonization process, two theologians determined that his writings were free of doctrinal errors. Servant of God Rome officially recognized the Cause when Pope John Paul II declared Father Solanus Casey a Servant of God in 1982. This allowed the Archdiocese of Detroit to officially open the Cause of Canonization. On Sept. 23, 1983, Detroit’s Archbishop Edmund C. Szoka opened the diocesan investigation into the life and virtues of Servant of God, Father Solanus Casey. The inquiry included 53 witnesses who testified to the sanctity of Father Solanus. Exhuming the body Part of the canonization process requires that the mortal remains of the candidate for sainthood be identified and verified, as the future saint’s relics will be venerated worldwide. Father Solanus’ body was exhumed on July 8, 1987. He was clothed in a new habit, and his body was re-interred in the north transept of St. Bonaventure’s Church in Detroit. Sister Anne Herkenrath, SNJM, a witness, recalls that his body was intact and recognizable. She noted that someone commented on his blue eyes. The Positio In 1987, The Capuchin province asked Father Michael Crosby OFM, Cap., to investigate Father Solanus’ life, writings and virtues. Father Michael interviewed his brother Capuchins and others who had knowledge of Father Solanus’ holiness. After five years of intense research and reflection, Father Michael’s work comprised three volumes that became the “Positio,” an official document providing evidence for a person’s canonization. Sent to the Vatican in 1992, the Positio was so convincing regarding Father Solanus’ practice of the virtues that in just three years, Father Solanus Casey was declared Venerable by Pope John Paul II on July 11, 1995. In the Positio, Capuchin Blasé Gitzen attested, “I know of no one individual who ever excelled this man in the practice of virtue—there might have been others who were better speakers, or more intelligent in solving difficult problems—but not in the practice of virtue. Father Solanus, in everything he did, reflected Christ.” Father Solanus’s own words near the end of his life say it best: “I looked on my whole life as giving, and I want to give until there is nothing left for me to give.”  The first miracle After proving the genuine holiness of an individual who has been declared Venerable, the Church seeks a miracle to confirm his or her sanctity. In Father Solanus’ case, the miracle came to Panamanian Paula Medina Zarato, a woman with an incurable genetic skin disease, ichthyosis vulgaris. While visiting her Capuchin friends in Detroit at the Solanus Casey Center, Paula visited the tomb and, like others, went to her knees and prayed for 14 individuals. As she got up, she heard a voice ask, “And what about you?” Immediately, she returned to her knees and asked Father Solanus to help her with her skin disease. She knew she was being healed as her dried skin fell from her legs, returning them to a healthy condition. After a thorough investigation by her Panamanian dermatologists and the Archdiocese of Detroit’s own investigation, it became apparent that the favor came directly through the intercession of Venerable Solanus Casey. The miracle was sent to the Vatican, where seven medical professionals thoroughly examined it. To validate the “favor,” five of the seven medical examiners needed to find no medical explanation for the healing. The miracle was validated. Paula’s case then moved forward to the team of theologians who were tasked with determining whether the “favor” was directly linked to the intercession of Venerable Solanus. They determined that the healing was to be attributed to Solanus. The case again moved forward, this time to Pope Francis, who declared on May 4, 2017, that Venerable Solanus was now elevated to the status of Blessed. Beatification Father Solanus’ beatification ceremony took place on Nov. 18, 2017. A crowd of 70,000 people gathered at Ford Field, the home of the Detroit Lions football team, to witness the event at which their local “Holy Priest” was declared “Blessed.” Additionally, it is said that 250 million people watched the beatification ceremony on EWTN. Awaiting the second miracle Blessed Solanus needs one more miracle on his journey to sainthood. Many are praying for the cause of Blessed Solanus’ canonization. One such group is a gathering of women who come each week to the Solanus Guild to embroider third-class relic badges, which are sent out all over the world. May everyone be blessed for their part in the canonization process!