Dr. Jim Rigg gives an update about Archdiocese of Chicago Catholic Schools.

Back with us is Sr. Maria Cimperman, RSCJ (see January 7, 2021 show), joined by Sr. Anita Baird, DHM (Religious Congregation of the Society of the Daughters of the Heart of Mary https://www.dhm.org. Sr. Anita served as late Cardinal George’s Chief of Staff in 1997 and founding director of the Archdiocese of Chicago’s Office for Racial Justice in 2000. Sr. Anita was past president of the National Black Sisters’ Conference and continues to serve on the Board of Directors. She has been given various awards and recognitions for spiritual and community leadership both locally and nationally. Sisters Maria and Anita talked about their collaboration on the 3-part series, ”A Call to Transformative Love in Religious Life: Stories of Race, Place and Grace,” (videocast accessible from https://learn.ctu.edu/?s=race) during Black Catholic History Month in November. Another 3-part series will be offered on three Mondays: March 8, 15 and 22, 2021, which we will hear about next time on Dare to Love.

In today’s show, co-hosts Deacon Richard Hudzik and Deacon Dave Brencic interview Connie Rakitan of Faith and Fellowship, as well as Deacon Al Sedivy. Both guests address ministerial outreach to those who endure mental illness, together with those who accompany and love those so afflicted. Both initiatives are connected with the Archdiocese’s Commission on Mental Illness. The origins of Faith and Fellowship, its present course and outreach are explained. In a word or two that doesn’t do justice to what they do, Faith and Fellowship is a way for those with mental illness to be accompanied in seeing their experiences as part of everyone’s walk with the Lord. Loving support, companionship and talk about our Faith is offered in structured small groups. For information about Faith and Fellowship, you can email [email protected] or call 708.383.9276 or go to the website at https://www.archchicago.org/offices-and-ministries/persons-with-disabilities.

The other initiative, Moving Forward in Hope, was outlined by Deacon Al Sedivy. These monthly Zoom meetings are ways for family and those with mental illness to pray together for one hour one day a month. People are able to register on a monthly basis to join the conversation and prayer. A Scripture passage is chosen and discussed in small break-out groups. No prior experience with Scripture is expected. The only requirement is to have an open heart and a willingness to at least listen to others pray and reflect. The meetings are on the fourth Tuesdays of the month at 7 PM. You can register by emailing Deacon Tom Lambert at [email protected] or using the contact information for the Archdiocesan Commission on Mental Illness at https://www.archchicago.org/offices-and-ministries/persons-with-disabilities.

Dawn and Ray offer a tribute to Joe Scheidler – “the Godfather of Pro-life Advocacy” who died at 93 on January 18, 2021. Eric Scheidler, son of Joe and Executive Director of Pro-life Action League shares stories and history of Joe’s legacy.

During the last segment of the show, Dawn and Ray introduce Dr. Angela Swain, new director of the Office of Human Dignity and Solidarity.

Casa Catalina is a vibrant, life-saving Food Pantry in the Back of the Yards neighborhood. Clients can receive a wide range of assistance, because of the dedication and resourcefulness of the staff and volunteers. Sister Joellen Tumas has recently retired after fifteen years of service to Catholic Charities, the past ten of which have been as Director at Casa Catalina. Join Marie Jochum and Brigid Murphy as they welcome Sister Joellen to celebrate her remarkable contributions to the agency, and the beautiful spirit of charity that defines Casa Catalina.  

Catholic Chicago looks at the spiritual and theological foundations for the Annual Catholic Appeal.  

The Voice of Charity explores ways to remove barriers to health equity in Lake County.

The Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers are featured on Catholic Chicago.

And time is spent on Mental Illness Awareness.

Co-hosts Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi talk to Sr. Patricia Crowley, O.S.B., and Sr. Belinda Monahan, O.S.B..  They discuss the Benedictine Sisters of Chicago and upcoming events

Co-hosts Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi talk with Dr. Edward Gordon about the Covid-19 pandemic, focusing on vaccines.

Co-hosts Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi speak with Deacon Tom Lambert and Deacon Al Sedivy about Mental Illness Awareness and a monthly virtual program called "Moving Forward in Hope.

Co-hosts Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi talk to Deacon Kevin McCarthy and Walter Hidalgo about the Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers and a Lenten retreat called "Learn to Live the Joy of the Gospel."