Never said 'naked'

National Catholic Reporter, Nov 5, 2004 by Kathryn Mihelick

I wish to clarify a statement attributed to me in an article on liturgical dance by Patricia Lefevere (Ministries, NCR, Sept. 17). But before doing so, I want to commend Ms. Lefevere on her comprehensive and illuminating coverage of this topic. She treated it with a sensitivity often found lacking in media coverage that addresses dance as an expression of prayer and worship.

The quote in question is "Christ redeemed us with his naked body--not with his mind." I did not use the word "naked," nor would I, because its meaning would be too easily misinterpreted by those who are adamantly opposed to liturgical dance. I, and others, have already been maligned by these adversaries on Web sites and via personal e-mail.

The unreported meaning behind my quoted statement is that "Christ redeemed us with the sacrifice of his body, not his mind (that is, not by logical/intellectual feat); therefore isn't it appropriate that we offer the gift of our bodies back to him in praise and thanksgiving?"

I appreciate this opportunity to make my intention clear and offer my regrets to Ms. Lefevere if there was a misunderstanding during the course of our phone interview.

KATHRYN MIHELICK

Stow, Ohio

[Kathryn Mihelick is the director of the Leaven Dance Company in the Cleveland diocese.]