In 1891, Pope Leo XIII issued a groundbreaking encyclical letter called Rerum Novarum—the “New Things.” In that letter, Pope Leo applied 1900 years of the development of Catholic theology to the moral, social, economic, and political crises and challenges caused by the industrial revolution of the nineteenth century. Thus did …

By Michelle Wirth Smith Each May, as the Church celebrates graduations, ordinations, and new beginnings, we’re reminded that growth often starts in quiet, unseen ways. The Story of the Hickey Family In the late 19th century, five brothers became priests: William (1880), Edward (1883), Charles (1886), John (1887), and George …

Listen to Archbishop Casey give his homily to at the 2026 priest ordination:   Today we are pleased to ordain nine men to serve as priests of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. Through the sacrament of Holy Orders, these men will become diocesan priests, serving the people of the various communities …

By Jonah McKeown Pope Leo XIII was known for his engagement with the profound social changes of the industrial revolution, especially through his 1891 encyclical, Rerum Novarum. His successor Pope Leo XIV chose his papal name, in part, because of his desire to address what he has called the next “industrial revolution” …

“Relying on the help of the Lord God and of our Savior Jesus Christ, we choose these men, our brothers, for the Order of the Priesthood.” These words rang out through the Cathedral Basilica of St. Peter in Chains in Cincinnati this morning as nine men stood side by side …

  Born in Washington State, Deacon Schmiesing is the oldest of seven children. Moving to Ohio just before his seventh birthday, they eventually settled near Sidney, where his dad grew up. He has three adopted brothers and three biological siblings, with only seven and half years between him and his …

  Deacon Packer grew up in Lebanon, Ohio, the eldest of eight children, with five brothers and two sisters. They were homeschooled and took on responsibilities for a house that ran all day long. He enjoyed playing sports with the neighbors and reading. Come Rack! Come Rope! is a favorite …

  Blessed to have a loving mom, dad, and three older brothers, Deacon Moore enjoyed growing up in Groesbeck, playing from morning to dusk. When not playing, his family was found at St. Ann on Galbraith Road for church, school, and sports. Married to his wife, Lori, until she passed …

  Deacon Klare is the third of seven children, his mom is one of ten, and his dad is one of seven. Big family parties and cousins coming over to play were staples in his childhood. Growing up in this big family instilled an enduring love for family life. An …

  Growing up in Miamisburg as the oldest of five children, Deacon Jasek was blessed with a family that placed the Catholic faith and a relationship with Jesus at the center of life. He is particularly grateful for the time they made to pray each evening—often the Rosary—and to gather …