Wholly Holy Whenever community issues or daily challenges seem to accumulate, priests, especially pastors, need to pause and call upon spiritual resources for both strength and comfort. The experience of Joseph Cardinal Bernardin, falsely accused of sexual abuse and diagnosed with terminal cancer can serve to strengthen others. Bernardin compared his distress over the false accusation to that of Jesus during his agony in the garden.

He wrote of his prayer to God, "In all my sixty-five years, this is the first time that I have really understood the pain and agony you felt that night." And I also asked, "Why did you let this happen?" He noted that had never felt more alone.
     (The Gift of Peace, p. 26)

Cardinal Bernardin's personal account provides a calming spiritual reflection for other clergy. He believed and lived the message that "the truth will set you free." (John 8:32) Such belief serves well as a standard for all who faithfully strive to live out their priestly vocation.

Related Materials

Compendium: Catechism of the Catholic Church
The Compendium is a perfect companion to the Bible, spiritual reading, or textbook. It has a four-part structure following the Catechism of the Catholic Church, with a section on common prayers and Catholic doctrinal formulas. It is in a question-and-answer format.

Call RCL Benziger at 1-877-ASK-4-RCL (1-877-275-4725).

ORDER NUMBER: 1-57455-720-3 English

Compendio: Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica

ORDER NUMBER: 1-57455-920-6 Spanish

The Gift of Peace—Personal Reflections
by Joseph Cardinal Bernardin

Writing during the last three years of his life, Cardinal Bernardin shares his personal reflections and insights that include a false accusation of sexual misconduct and the diagnosis of cancer. He shares with others the peace that he was able to find during this trying time.

Available through Loyola Press, 1997

The Total Parish Manual: Everything You Need to Empower Your Faith Community
by William J. Bausch

Fr. Bausch offers a complete "how to" for guiding a parish in fulfilling its mission to its members. He references sacraments, the liturgical year, volunteers, organizations, ministries, and evangelization, among parish activities. This resource will assist a parish in developing holy people within its own borders.

Available through Twenty-Third Publications, 1994