Bishop Hicks' Column

Have you ever made or wanted to make a pilgrimage to a holy site? Before answering that, let’s establish the difference between a vacation and a pilgrimage. A vacation is a leisure trip for a “getaway,” usually focused on relaxation, entertainment, and exploration. A Catholic pilgrimage, on the other hand, is a spiritual journey to a sacred site with the purpose of deepening one's faith, seeking divine grace, or fulfilling a religious vow.

During our year-long celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Diocese of Joliet in Illinois, we have emphasized that we are “Founded in Faith, Called to Witness, Sent Forth to Serve.” During the month of October, we decided to focus on the last four words, “Sent Forth to Serve.”

Sometimes I get the impression that many people view the Diocese of Joliet as a "small" diocese. Perhaps this is because we border the mammoth Archdiocese of Chicago. However, to refer to us as "small" is rather misleading and inaccurate.

“I don’t have time for this!” These were the words that were on replay in my head as I drove from Joliet to Mundelein Seminary a few weeks ago. I was headed to a 3-1/2 day regional retreat for all the bishops from Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin. In my justified view, my saturated work schedule simply did not leave any room for this spiritual “indulgence.” Yet, motivated mostly by duty, I checked into my room and asked the Lord to help me check my bad attitude at the door.

Disneyland has used its original tagline, “The Happiest Place on Earth,” since 1955. This summer, I traveled to a place where I experienced a few days of refreshing and true happiness.

Twice a year, all the bishops across the U.S. gather for meetings held by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). A few weeks ago, we met in Louisville, Kentucky.

Pope Leo XIII consecrated the entire world to the Sacred Heart of Jesus on June 11, 1899. Since then, every pope has renewed the consecration to the Sacred Heart. As we celebrate this 125th Jubilee of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, I thought I’d share some interesting historical background.

There are people who would prefer we not gather at events like the March for Life with our prayers, our voices, and our advocacy. Yet Pope Francis has stated, "I urge civil authorities to be especially attentive to children who are denied their fundamental rights and dignity, particularly their right to life." And that is exactly what happened on April 17th in Springfield.

When you see a good, faith-based movie which you enthusiastically give two thumbs up, I encourage you to recommend it to your family and friends. Your endorsement may be a simple way for you to evangelize and help spread the good news of our faith.

Astoundingly, this year’s Super Bowl commercial, which was broadcast to millions throughout the world, just might have been the voice of the Holy Spirit whispering with a megaphone to each one of us!