Aug. 16 Mass and event scheduled to defend the faith against anti-Catholic commentator Bill Maher

Criterion staff report

It’s about defending the Lord and the Catholic Church.

That’s how Tim Thunell describes the Aug. 16 events that will take place at Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish and later outside the Murat Theatre, both in Indianapolis, in conjunction with television host and political commentator Bill Maher’s appearance at the Murat that night.

Maher, who currently hosts Home Box Office’s “Real Time with Bill Maher,” is known for his anti-Catholicism. For years, he has consistently ridiculed the Catholic faith and its leaders.

Father Dennis Duvelius, pastor of St. Louis Parish in Batesville, will be the celebrant at the 6 p.m. solemn traditional Latin Mass that will take place at Holy Rosary Church, 520 Stevens St., that evening. He will be assisted by Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter Father Michael Magiera, associate pastor of Holy Rosary; Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter Father Gerard Saguto, administrator of SS. Philomena and Cecilia Parish in Oak Forest; and other priests.

“It is a votive Mass for the defense of the Church,” said Thunell, a member of Holy Rosary Parish. “Mass is the most powerful prayer there is.”

After the Mass, people will walk or drive to the Murat Theatre,

502 N. New Jersey St., to pray the rosary and other prayers of reparation, and to sing hymns before, during and after Maher’s appearance that night.

“This is not a protest. We are not going there to denigrate anyone,” Thunell said. “This is a public act of prayer against blasphemies against our Lord and the Church.”

People of all ages are expected to attend the public act of prayer and reparation, Thunell said.

“We’re the Church militant, and this is a great opportunity to publicly defend our Lord.”

Thunell encouraged people who plan to attend to invite their family, friends and pastors to stand up for the faith as well. He also encouraged pastors to bring the Aug. 16 events to parishioners’ attention.

Even if you cannot come for all the events which are expected to last until approximately 10 p.m., Thunell said individuals are invited to come for part of the time.

“We are hoping for large numbers to make an impression,” he said. “Priests in union with the laity would be a powerful statement.”

(For more information, call Tim Thunell at 317-784-2773 or e-mail tim_thunell@yahoo.com.) †