Life spins on…

The calendar ticked over to fall as this edition of The Catholic New World was getting ready to go to press. The winds began smelling of autumn and the mornings turned crisper. Since Chicago’s weather is as unpredictable as a papal election, there’ll certainly be more warm days to come.

But a Chicago summer is too good to forget. So we’re delighted to have a fine memory of summer on the cover of this issue, courtesy of Dominick Maino, a parishioner at St. Bartholomew who offered his striking photo of St. Bart’s fabulous carnival. The swirling lights of the Ferris wheel shout the glory of summer.

But now that it’s fall, it’s back to school, back to work and back to business. For you, and for us.

There’s a pretty good chance that this issue of The Catholic New World is one you picked up at church as part of our annual circulation effort. Sept. 29 also is the annual second collection asking donations to keep our communications work improving. (Hint: If you get TCNW by mail, read it and share it with a neighbor. It’s called evangelization.)

We’re not so foolish, however, to think people—even good Catholics—will want an archdiocesan publication unless there’s value to it.

So, pay attention. We’re going to talk about value (and about what is arguably the best Catholic newspaper in the country). Inside, there’s something for everyone.

Let’s start with Cardinal George’s regular column on Page 3. It’s not always light reading, but there’s meat. Reader opinions about most columnists, me included, usually blow hot … or cold. Rarely lukewarm. But either way, you’ve got to read it.

Want to talk value? And values? This issue, the Media & Culture section (Pages 32-37) includes a profile of the new TV season. What values will you be inviting into your home for you and your children when you turn on the tube? You can even share your opinion with us.

October happens to be Respect Life Month, and you’ll find a series of compelling articles, columns and information (Pages 13-14).

Feeling a little more traditional? Check out our two excellent columns on Scripture and spirituality (Page 15). You’ll discover a faithful perspective on living life as a Christian.

Current events junkie? Then you’ll want to get the news, opinions, perspectives of readers and pope on the developing situation between the United States and Iraq.

How about a little history? Did you know that St. Michael’s Parish in Old Town survived the Great Chicago Fire to rebuild its community, literally on the ashes and will mark its 150th anniversary? That’s on Page 19.

If you just want to kick back and be entertained and informed, check out this issue’s HUGE Around the Archdiocese calendar listings on Pages 26 and 28. And Dolores Madlener’s wildly popular “benevolent gossip” column, Church Clips (Page 27).

Between it all are the news and stories of a faithful people, told faithfully. I hope you enjoy it.

Finally, what’s a column—summer or winter—without a little controversy?

A rally was scheduled after we went to press to protest a cartoon panel in The Chicago Reader. Some Catholics, understandably, dislike its obscene and disgusting portrayal of things Catholic. On one hand, it’s important to challenge that which seeks to ridicule the church founded by Jesus Christ. On the other, sometimes the attention a protest gives only focuses unwanted attention on the miscreants who peddle the filth.

And, on the other hand (I know, that’s three hands) What does the Gospel say about being “blessed” when others insult you for the Lord’s sake?

Take your pick. But in any event, enjoy autumn, God’s gift to Chicago.

Tom Sheridan
Editor and General Manager