Jan. 18, 2013

January 18, 2013

catholicnewsherald.com charlottediocese.org S E RV I N G C H R I ST A N D C O N N EC T I N G C AT H O L I C S I N W E ST E R N N O R T H C A R O L I N A

Altar desecrated at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Charlotte, 5 North Wilkesboro parish receives rare John Paul II relic, 5 INDEX Contact us.......................... 4 Events calendar................. 4 Our Parishes.................. 4-11 Schools..............................19 Scripture readings............ 2 TV & Movies...................... 20 U.S. news..................... 22-23 Viewpoints.................. 26-27 World news................. 24-25 Year of Faith.................... 2-3

Subscribe today! Call:

704-370-3333

FUNDED by the parishioners of the diocese of charlotte THANK YOU!

Rain, prayer and resolve

40 years after Roe, hundreds in Charlotte march for life, pray for end to abortion, 14-18 ‘Peace be with this house’ Bishop Jugis dedicates Good Shepherd Gardens – a new community for seniors in Salisbury, 5

Congolese priest inspires outreach, 8-9 Bishops call for driver’s licenses for immigrants, 10

2

Year of faith

catholicnewsherald.com | January 18, 2013 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Pope Benedict XVI Benedictine Abbot Placid Solari of Belmont Abbey gave a presentation Jan. 10 at the Catholic Conference Center about the early Church Fathers – part of the Year of Faith themed series of in-service trainings organized by the diocese’s Education Vicariate for all education staff. Nearly 65 people were in attendance from various parishes and schools to seek a deeper understanding of the meaning of faith as portrayed in the writings of the Church Fathers.

Everyone, even atheists, has desire to know who God is

T

he desire to see and know God is innate in everyone, even nonbelievers, Pope Benedict XVI said.

But it’s especially important people don’t just seek God when they need Him, but make room for Him throughout their busy lives, he said during his weekly general audience in the Vatican’s Paul VI hall Jan. 16.

At the end of the audience, the pope also greeted U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta, who was raised Catholic.

The brief encounter came during the so-called “baciamano,” that is, the moment when the pope offers a select group of prelates and special guests a brief handshake one-by-one rather than a private audience.

The pope spoke at length with the former CIA director, who was smiling and gently holding both of the pope’s hands, and gave him one of the medallions reserved for special guests.

Panetta, who was stepping down as Pentagon chief, was in Rome as part of a Europe-wide tour to meet with European defense ministers to discuss the conflicts in Afghanistan and Mali.

During his catechesis dedicated to the Year of Faith, the pope said, “The desire to really know God, that is, to see the face of God, exists in everyone, even atheists.”

It can even be an unconscious desire to simply know “who is He, what is He for us?” the pope said.

That yearning finds fulfillment in Christ, he said; as Jesus told His disciples, “Whoever has seen Me has seen the Father.”

The pope said it was important to follow Christ “not just those moments when we need Him,” but to “find room for Him in our daily tasks” and throughout one’s life.

“The splendor of the divine countenance is the source of life, it’s what lets one see reality” and its light is a sure guide in life, he said.

At the end of his catechesis, the pope made an appeal for people to join the observance of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity Jan. 18-25. The theme for this year’s week is “What does God require of us?”

“I invite everyone to pray, ceaselessly asking God for the great gift of unity among the disciples of the Lord. May the inexhaustible power of the Holy Spirit encourage us in a sincere commitment to the search for unity, so that together we may all profess that Jesus is the Savoir of the world.”

Photo provided by Dr. Cris Villapando

Abbot Placid: Church Fathers saw their faith as personal relationship with Jesus Patricia L. Guilfoyle Editor

HICKORY — Early Christians endured persecution and martyrdom with calmness and joy, Benedictine Abbot Placid Solari of Belmont Abbey recently explained to a group of diocesan educators, because of their unshakable faith in Jesus.

Abbot Placid’s Jan. 10 talk “Biblical and Patristic Perspectives of the Catholic Faith” was part of a year-long series sponsored by the Education Vicariate for diocesan educators and catechists, designed to infuse the goals of the Year of Faith in what is the vicariate’s regular in-service training sessions. Previous talks by other local clergy focused on the sacraments and on the Second Vatican Council.

The early Christians did not have the Books of the Bible readily at hand nor did they have a printed catechism as we do today, but they knew exactly what they believed, and the bishops at the time stressed the crucial importance of

educating the faithful before preparing them for baptism and acceptance into the Christian community. Their confidence in their faith was rooted in their personal relationship with Jesus, and they accepted persecution or martyrdom as a way to join intimately with His suffering on the cross, Abbot Placid said.

They faced death with cheer, not fear, because they were joining themselves to Jesus. “They weren’t suffering because of an abstract adherence to an intellectual explanation of their faith, but because of their deep attachment and love for Jesus,” he said. They wanted to share in His suffering, because they knew that they would then enjoy His promised reward: eternal life with the Father in heaven.

Faith was a “living and affective attachment to Jesus,” Abbot Placid emphasized.

It was not easy being Christian in those days, he noted. Being Christian meant one rejected the divinity of the Roman emperor, renounced all pagan gods and local religions, and endured attacks and

More online At www.catholicnewsherald.com: Learn more about the lives of the Church Fathers, read their translated writings and check out what Pope Benedict XVI has to say about each of them. That and many more resources are compiled in our special Year of Faith section.

criticism from friends and neighbors.

The Romans were antipathetic to the Christians for their perceived lack of patriotism by not worshipping the state gods and the emperor. Jews looked down on them for having rejected the covenant and their traditions and history. And when there was a famine or natural disaster, Christians made convenient scapegoats. church Fathers, SEE page 18

Your daily Scripture readings SCRIPTURE READINGS FOR THE WEEK OF JAN. 20-26

Sunday: Isaiah 62:1-5, 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, John 2:1-11; Monday (St. Agnes): Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 2:18-22; Tuesday: Hebrews 6:1020, Mark 2:23-28; Wednesday (St. Vincent): Hebrews 7:1-3, 15-17, Mark 3:1-6; Thursday (St. Francis de Sales): Hebrews 7:25-8:6, Mark 3:7-12; Friday: Acts 22:3-16, Mark 16:15-18; Saturday (Sts. Timothy and Titus): 2 Timothy 1:1-8, Mark 3:20-21

SCRIPTURE READINGS FOR THE WEEK OF JAN. 27-FEB. 2

Sunday: Nehemiah 8:2-4, 5-6, 8-10, 1 Corinthians 12:12-30, Luke 1:1-4, 4:14-21; Monday (St. Thomas Aquinas): Hebrews 9:15, 24-28, Mark 3:22-30; Tuesday: Hebrews 10:1-10, Mark 3:31-35; Wednesday: Hebrews 10:11-18, Mark 4:1-20; Thursday (St. John Bosco): Hebrews 10:19-25, Mark 4:21-25; Friday: Hebrews 10:3239, Mark 4:26-34; Saturday: Malachi 3:1-4, Hebrews 2:14-18, Luke 2:22-40

SCRIPTURE READINGS FOR THE WEEK OF FEB. 3-9

Sunday: Jeremiah 1:4-5, 17-19, 1 Corinthians 12:31-13:13, Luke 4:21-30; Monday: Hebrews 11:32-40, Mark 5:1-20; Tuesday (St. Agatha): Hebrews 12:1-4, Mark 5:21-43; Wednesday (St. Paul Miki and Companions): Hebrews 12:4-7, 1115, Mark 6:1-6; Thursday: Hebrews 12:18-19, 2124, Mark 6:7-13; Friday (St. Jerome Emiliani and St. Josephine Bakhita): Hebrews 13:1-8, Mark 6:14-29; Saturday: Hebrews 13:15-17, 2021, Mark 6:30-34

January 18, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

H

On baptism

oly Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit (“vitae spiritualis ianua”), and the door which gives access to the other sacraments.

Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission ... (CCC 1213) WHAT IS THIS SACRAMENT CALLED? 1214 This sacrament is called Baptism, after the central rite by which it is carried out: to baptize (Greek “baptizein”) means to “plunge” or “immerse”; the “plunge” into the water symbolizes the catechumen’s burial into Christ’s death, from which he rises up by resurrection with Him, as “a new creature” (2 Cor 5:17; Gal 6:15; cf. Rom 6:34; Col 2:12).

1215 This sacrament is also called “the washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit,” for it signifies and actually brings about the birth of water and the Spirit without which no one “can enter the kingdom of God” (Titus 3:5; Jn 3:5).

1216 “This bath is called enlightenment, because those who receive this (catechetical) instruction are enlightened in their understanding ....” Having received in Baptism the Word, “the true light that enlightens every man,” the person baptized has been “enlightened,” he becomes a “son of light,” indeed, he becomes “light” himself (Jn 1:9; 1 Thess 5:5; Heb 10:32; Eph 5:8).

Online resources for your Year of Faith

saw considerable development. A long period of catechumenate included a series of preparatory rites, which were liturgical landmarks along the path of catechumenal preparation and culminated in the celebration of the sacraments of Christian initiation.

1231 Where infant Baptism has become the form in which this sacrament is usually celebrated, it has become a single act encapsulating the preparatory stages of Christian initiation in a very abridged way. By its very nature infant Baptism requires a post-baptismal catechumenate. Not only is there a need for instruction after Baptism, but also for the necessary flowering of baptismal grace in personal growth. The catechism has its proper place here.

1232 The second Vatican Council restored for the Latin Church “the catechumenate for adults, comprising several distinct steps.” The rites for these stages are to be found in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). The

The official Vatican site for the Year of Faith, this is a mustsee for your own journey. Here you’ll find: – the full text of “Porta Fidei,” Pope Benedict XVI’s apostolic letter announcing the Year of Faith – the full text of all the Vatican II documents, including the four constitutions: “Dei Verbum,” “Lumen Gentium,” “Sacrosanctum Concilium” and “Gaudium et Spes”

www.usccb.org

Prefigurations of Baptism in the Old Covenant: 1218 Since the beginning of the world, water, so humble and wonderful a creature, has been the source of life and fruitfulness. Sacred Scripture sees it as “overshadowed” by the Spirit of God ... (cf. Gen 1:2) 1219 The Church has seen in Noah’s ark a prefiguring of salvation by Baptism, for by it “a few, that is, eight persons, were saved through water” (1 Pet 3:20).

1220 If water springing up from the earth symbolizes life, the water of the sea is a symbol of death and so can represent the mystery of the cross. By this symbolism Baptism signifies communion with Christ’s death.

1221 But above all, the crossing of the Red Sea, literally the liberation of Israel from the slavery of Egypt, announces the John Bunyea | Catholic News HeralD liberation wrought by Baptism.

Father Paul Dechant, pastor of Holy Cross Church in Kernersville, baptizes Jackson Gregory Schuler during the 1222 Finally, Baptism is prefigured in the crossing of the Easter Vigil Mass last year.

Jordan River by which the People of God received the gift of the land promised to Abraham’s descendants, an image of Council also gives permission that: “In mission countries, in addition to what is eternal life. The promise of this blessed inheritance is fulfilled in the New Covenant. furnished by the Christian tradition, those elements of initiation rites may be Christ’s Baptism: admitted which are already in use among some peoples insofar as they can be 1223 All the Old Covenant prefigurations find their fulfillment in Christ Jesus. adapted to the Christian ritual.”

He begins His public life after having Himself baptized by St. John the Baptist 1233 Today in all the rites, Latin and Eastern, the Christian initiation of adults in the Jordan (cf. Mt 3:13). After his resurrection Christ gives this mission to begins with their entry into the catechumenate and reaches its culmination in a His Apostles: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in single celebration of the three sacraments of initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to and the Eucharist. In the Eastern rites the Christian initiation of infants also begins observe all that I have commanded you” (Mt 28:19-20; cf. Mk 16:15-16).

1224 Our Lord voluntarily submitted Himself to the baptism of St. John, intended with Baptism followed immediately by Confirmation and the Eucharist, while in the Roman rite it is followed by years of catechesis before being completed later by for sinners, in order to “fulfill all righteousness” (Mt 3:15). Jesus’ gesture is a Confirmation and the Eucharist, the summit of their Christian initiation. manifestation of His self-emptying (cf. Phil 2:7). The Spirit who had hovered over the waters of the first creation descended then on the Christ as a prelude of the Faith and Baptism new creation, and the Father revealed Jesus as His “beloved Son” (Mt 3:16-17).

1253 Baptism is the sacrament of faith. But faith needs the community of 1225 In His Passover Christ opened to all men the fountain of Baptism. He had believers. It is only within the faith of the Church that each of the faithful can already spoken of His Passion, which He was about to suffer in Jerusalem, as a believe. The faith required for Baptism is not a perfect and mature faith, but a “Baptism” with which He had to be baptized (Mk 10:38; cf. Lk 12:50). The blood beginning that is called to develop. The catechumen or the godparent is asked: and water that flowed from the pierced side of the crucified Jesus are types of “What do you ask of God’s Church?” The response is: “Faith!”

Baptism and the Eucharist, the sacraments of new life (cf. Jn 19:34; 1 Jn 5:6-8).

1254 For all the baptized, children or adults, faith must grow after Baptism.

From then on, it is possible “to be born of water and the Spirit” (cf. Jn 3:5) in For this reason the Church celebrates each year at the Easter Vigil the renewal order to enter the Kingdom of God. of baptismal promises. Preparation for Baptism leads only to the threshold of Baptism in the Church: new life. Baptism is the source of that new life in Christ from which the entire 1226 From the very day of Pentecost the Church has celebrated and Christian life springs forth. administered holy Baptism. Indeed St. Peter declares to the crowd astounded by 1255 For the grace of Baptism to unfold, the parents’ help is important. So too his preaching: “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus is the role of the godfather and godmother, who must be firm believers, able and Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy ready to help the newly baptized – child or adult on the road of Christian life.

Spirit” (Acts 2:38). The Apostles and their collaborators offer Baptism to anyone 1279 The fruit of Baptism, or baptismal grace, is a rich reality that includes who believed in Jesus: Jews, the God-fearing, pagans. Always, Baptism is seen forgiveness of original sin and all personal sins, birth into the new life by which as connected with faith: “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you man becomes an adoptive son of the Father, a member of Christ and a temple and your household,” St. Paul declared to his jailer in Philippi. And the narrative of the Holy Spirit. By this very fact the person baptized is incorporated into the continues, the jailer “was baptized at once, with all his family” (Acts 16:31-33).

Church, the Body of Christ, and made a sharer in the priesthood of Christ.

Christian Initiation 1229 From the time of the apostles, becoming a Christian has been accomplished by a journey and initiation in several stages. This journey can be covered rapidly or slowly, but certain essential elements will always have to be present: proclamation of the Word, acceptance of the Gospel entailing conversion, profession of faith, Baptism itself, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and admission to Eucharistic communion.

1230 This initiation has varied greatly through the centuries according to circumstances. In the first centuries of the Church, Christian initiation

www.annusfidei.va

– catechetical talks by Pope Benedict on the Apostles and saints, the Church Fathers, leading Catholic women, medieval theologians, and prayer

BAPTISM IN THE ECONOMY OF SALVATION

HOW IS THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM CELEBRATED?

3

1280 Baptism imprints on the soul an indelible spiritual sign, the character, which consecrates the baptized person for Christian worship. Because of the character Baptism cannot be repeated.

1274 The Holy Spirit has marked us with the seal of the Lord (“Dominicus character”) “for the day of redemption.” “Baptism indeed is the seal of eternal life.” The faithful Christian who has “kept the seal” until the end, remaining faithful to the demands of his Baptism, will be able to depart this life “marked with the sign of faith,” with his baptismal faith, in expectation of the blessed vision of God – the consummation of faith – and in the hope of resurrection.

— Excerpted from the Catechism of the Catholic Church

At the U.S. bishops’ website, check out a video series on the Year of Faith, download Catholic prayers and catechetical resources for free, search the Catechism of the Catholic Church, get games for kids, check out resources for families, and more.

www.vcat.org A new website featuring “Video Catechism for Teens,” produced by the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston in association with Outside da Box. Besides the video series on the Nicene Creed, check out free resources geared toward youths and young adults.

www.flocknote.com/ caTechism Read the Catechism over the course of this year: Get daily reflections from the Catechism to your email inbox, for free.

www.OnceCatholic.org A general website geared for people who have left their Catholic faith behind for various reasons. Produced by the Franciscan Friars of St. John the Baptist Province in Cincinnati, Ohio. It offers resources and FAQs on Church teaching, reconnects people with local communities, and features online forums.

Year of Faith indulgence offered Catholics who participate in events connected with the Year of Faith can receive a plenary, or full, indulgence, Pope Benedict XVI has announced. An indulgence is a remission of the temporal punishment a person is due for sins that have been forgiven.

At www.catholicnewsherald. com/ourfaith: Details on obtaining the indulgence

4

catholicnewsherald.com | January 18, 2013 OUR PARISHES

Diocesan calendar of events ASHEVILLE “Gala for Hope Dinner and Fund raiser”: Saturday, Feb. 2, Crowne Plaza Resort Expo Center. To benefit Catholic Social Services in the Asheville area.

Reserve your complimentary tickets at www.cssnc.org.

Bishop Peter J. Jugis Bishop Peter J. Jugis will participate in the following events in the coming weeks: JAN. 19 – 5 p.m.

Mass for Diamond Jubilee of Christ the King Cathedral Parish and school Atlanta

JAN. 23 – 7 p.m.

Vespers Service for Week of Prayer for Christian Unity St. Patrick Cathedral, Charlotte

JAN. 29 – 11 a.m.

Mass for Catholic Schools Week Bishop Mcguinness High School, Kernersville JAN. 31 – 9:30 a.m.

Mass for Catholic Schools Week Sacred Heart School, Salisbury

QUEEN OF THE APOSTLES CHURCH, 503 NORTH MAIN ST. — Community Breakfast: 8-11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 19. In the MAK Family Life Center. All are welcome.

CHARLOTTE

JAN. 22 – 11 a.m.

Presbyteral Council meeting Pastoral Center, Charlotte

JAN. 25 – 11:30 a.m.

Holy Mass for Life Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception Washington, D.C.

BELMONT

— Natural Family Planning classes: 7-10 p.m. Jan. 18-Feb. 8. Learn the effectiveness of modern NFP methods.

Sign up online at www.ccli.org. For more information, contact Joe and Kathy Hack at 704-548-1834.

— Marriage Encounter Weekend: Feb. 8-10. Renew and rekindle your marriage. Registration required. For more details, call 704-315-2144.

ST. ANN Church, 3635 Park Road — Missa Cantata: 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 3. All are welcome to attend.

ST. MATTHEW church, 8015 BALLANTYNE COMMONS Pkwy.

— Open discussion group for mothers, “Called to be mom”: 10 a.m.-noon Thursday, Jan. 31. All mothers are welcome. For more information, contact Kerry Long at 704-243-6319.

— St. Peregrine Healing Prayer Service: 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 24. Healing prayer service will be offered for all those suffering with cancer and grave diseases. For more information, call the church at 704-543-7677.

ST. PATRICK Cathedral, 1621 DILWORTH ROAD EAST — Evening study, “Seven Deadly Sins & Seven Lively Virtues”: Starting 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 20.

Everyone is welcome. To register, contact Margaret Gustafson at jmgusto@bellsouth.net.

ST. PETER CHURCH, 507 SOUTH TRYON ST. — “13th Annual Kennedy Lecture: The Dark Nights of Malcolm X, Catholic Spirituality and The Challenge of Social Justice”: 9-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 26. All are welcome. For more information, call the parish office at 704-332-2901.

ST. THOMAS AQUINAS CHURCH, 1400 SUTHER ROAD — Feast of St. Thomas Aquinas: Mass 7 p.m. Jan. 28.

Reception following Mass. For more details, call the parish office at 704-549-1607.

— Knights of Columbus will host the Annual Charlotte Ultra Run: Saturday, Feb. 2. For more information, contact Patrick Kelleher at 704-724-1303.

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity Jan. 18-25 The following parishes announce plans to participate in the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: n St. Barnabas, Arden: “What does God Require of Us,” 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 18, with Pastor Steven Ray from Fletcher United Methodist Church. n St. John Neumann, Charlotte: 7 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 24, with Pastor John Mouritsen of Morning Star Lutheran Church.

Refreshments following the service.

RSVP to Shea Barja at sheabarja@gmail. com or 704-451-3629.

n St. Vincent De Paul, Charlotte: 7 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 24, in the Activity Center, with Pastor Trevor Smith of Westminster Presbyterian Church. Light refreshments following the service.

n St. John Baptist de la Salle, North Wilkesboro, and St. Stephen Mission, Elkin: 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 18, ecumenical prayer service in North Wilkesboro that will also celebrate the reception of a first-class relic of Blessed John Paul II. Reception n St. Patrick, Charlotte: 7 p.m. Wednesday, following the service.

Jan. 23. Bishop Peter Jugis will lead Vespers.

— Please join us for our first “Divine Mercy Holy Hour”: Exposition and readings from the Diary of St. Maria Faustina Kowalska: 7-8 p.m. every first Friday. For questions, contact Paul Deer at 704-948-0628.

— “Rosary for Life”: Join the Respect Life group to pray each Wednesday at 6:30 p.m., followed by Mass at 7 p.m. To participate, contact Gretchen Filz at gfilz10@ ses.edu or 704-919-0935.

St. Vincent de Paul church, 6828 old Reid road — CCWG Morning Reflection with Father Joshua Voitus: 10 a.m. Monday, Feb. 4. All women are invited. For more information, visit www. charlottecatholicwomensgroup.org or contact Anita Di Pietro at 704-543-0314.

DIOCESE OF CHARLOTTE — Healing Retreat: Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat Weekend, Feb. 1-3, sponsored by Catholic Social Services Respect Life Program. Retreat will be held in the Charlotte area and is open to both men and women beginning their healing journey after an abortion.

For more information, call Maggi Fitzpatrick at 704370-3229 or visit www.rachelsvineyard.org.

St. and Sunset Drive, High Point. Parking available.

For details, contact Jim Hoyng, 336-882-9593, or Paul Klosterman, 336-848-6835 Immaculate heart of mary church, 4145 johnson st.

— Free Spanish class: 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 24.

HUNTERSVILLE St. MARK CHURCH, 14740 STUMPTOWN ROAD — Curso en Español, ”Católico, Conoce y Practica Tu Fe”: 7 p.m. Todos los Lunes de Febrero.

— Concierto de música Religiosa con Jorge Morel: 7-9 p.m. Sábado, Enero 18. Todos están invitados a este evento gratuito. Para más información llame al 704948-4239.

— Concierto de música Religiosa con Junior Arias: 7-9 p.m. Sábado, Enero 25. Todos están invitados a este evento gratuito. Para más información llame al 704948-4239.

— Our Lady of Perpetual Help Novenas: following 6:30 p.m. Mass on Wednesdays

WINSTON-SALEM GREENSBORO ST. PIUS X Church, 2210 North elm st.

— Holy Hour and Adoration: To pray for an end to all assaults on life. Noon Tuesday, Jan. 22, in the new chapel.

— The Catholic Women Council invites all women to attend its annual covered dish luncheon, featuring “The Art and Vision of Charles Schultz”: Noon Wednesday, Jan. 23. Bring a dish to share. Call Debbie Porter at 336-288-4255 to RSVP.

HIGH POINT — Pro-Life Rosary Prayer Service: To pray for an end to abortion. 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 2, at 901 North Main

— Marriage Encounter Weekend: Feb. 8-10. Registration required. For more information, contact William and Elizabeth Nickles at 704-315-2144.

— “Partners in Hope Dinner”: Thursday, Feb. 28, at the Benton Convention Center in downtown WinstonSalem. To benefit the work of Catholic Social Services in the Triad area. For details, contact Kristin Lennex at 336-714-3227 or Donna Kronner at 336-655-2876.

Is your parish or school hosting a free event open to the public? Deadline for all submissions is 10 days prior to desired publication date. Submit in writing to catholicnews@charlottediocese.org.

facebook.com/ catholic news HERALD

January 18, 2013 Volume 22 • Number 6

1123 S. Church St. Charlotte, N.C. 28203-4003 catholicnews@charlottediocese.org

704-370-3333 PUBLISHER: The Most Reverend Peter J. Jugis, Bishop of Charlotte

EDITOR: Patricia L. Guilfoyle 704-370-3334, plguilfoyle@charlottediocese.org ADVERTISING MANAGER: Kevin Eagan 704-370-3332, keeagan@charlottediocese.org SENIOR REPORTER: SueAnn Howell 704-370-3354, sahowell@charlottediocese.org Online reporter: Kimberly Bender 704-808-7341, kdbender@charlottediocese.org GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Tim Faragher 704-370-3331, tpfaragher@charlottediocese.org COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT/CIRCULATION: Erika Robinson 704-370-3333, catholicnews@charlottediocese.org

The Catholic News Herald is published by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte 26 times a year.

NEWS: The Catholic News Herald welcomes your news and photos. Please e-mail information, attaching photos in JPG format with a recommended resolution of 150 dpi or higher, to catholicnews@charlottediocese.org. All submitted items become the property of the Catholic News Herald and are subject to reuse, in whole or in part, in print, electronic formats and archives.

ADVERTISING: Reach 165,000 Catholics across western North Carolina! For advertising rates and information,

contact Advertising Manager Kevin Eagan at 704-370-3332 or keeagan@charlottediocese.org. The Catholic News Herald reserves the right to reject or cancel advertising for any reason, and does not recommend or guarantee any product, service or benefit claimed by our advertisers.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: $15 per year for all registered parishioners of the Diocese of Charlotte and $23 per year for all others.

POSTMASTER: Periodicals class postage (USPC 007-393) paid at Charlotte, N.C. Send address corrections to the Catholic News Herald, 1123 S. Church St., Charlotte, N.C. 28203.

Diocese of Charlotte

@CatholicNewsCLT

Pinterest.com/ charlottecnh

Our parishes

January 18, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

North Wilkesboro church receives JPII relic

Altar desecrated at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Charlotte

Patricia L. Guilfoyle Editor

Patricia L. Guilfoyle Editor

CHARLOTTE — Someone broke into St. Thomas Aquinas Church at 1400 Suther Road early Saturday morning, desecrating the altar and causing about $2,600 in damage.

No evidence of ritualistic or occult activity was obvious and nothing was stolen from the University City-area church.

According to the CharlotteMecklenburg Police report, the person or persons broke a stained glass window on the right side of the church, not visible to the street, sometime after 1:30 a.m. and before 9 a.m. Saturday. They probably cut themselves on the broken glass, and as they walked into the altar area some blood dripped onto the altar cloth, said David Hains, diocesan director of communication.

Hains said police surmised the person knocked over the crucifix that stood upon the altar, and when it fell it broke the baby Jesus statue in the church’s Nativity display. At some point during their break-in, the burglar or burglars triggered the church’s alarm, and they left moments later through the narthex.

Parish staff thought the alarm was triggered accidentally and did not discover the break-in until Saturday morning, Hains said. They immediately called police and Bishop Peter Jugis.

According to Hains and the church’s pastor, Father Patrick Winslow, there appeared to be no signs of satanic activity, but the altar area was desecrated in a “lewd” manner.

Bishop Jugis came to the church Saturday afternoon and blessed the church inside and out, as required by canon law when an altar is desecrated or profaned. Then he celebrated a Mass with Father Winslow, Father Matthew Kauth (priest in residence) and a few parishioners who happened to be present.

The peaceful blessing ceremony was “intended to cleanse any defilement in the church,” Hains said. The ceremony took about two hours.

Father Winslow and Father Kauth then notified parishioners of the break-in during the regular Sunday Masses.

In a statement Monday, Father Winslow said, “Regarding the incident itself, although the particular intentions of those responsible may never be known, the effect of violating our sanctuary and altar remains the same. Consistent with our Catholic tradition, liturgical celebrations could not resume until Bishop Jugis blessed the church, sanctuary and altar.”

DESECRATED, SEE page 21

5

sueann howell | catholic news herald

Above: Bishop Peter J. Jugis (center) cuts the ribbon during the opening ceremony for Good Shepherd Gardens.

Also pictured (from left) are: Randel Stanley, John Nichols, Garry Merritt, Bishop Jugis, Charlotte Bishop Emeritus William G. Curlin, Monsignor Mauricio West, John Sarver and Phil Kiester. Below: Bishop Jugis congratulates Mabel Ebright on her new apartment home as her son, Father James Ebright (right), and Father Jason Barone (left) look on. Father Barone, parochial vicar at Sacred Heart Church in Salisbury, assisted the bishop as he blessed the new building.

‘PEACE BE WITH THIS HOUSE’

Bishop Jugis dedicates Good Shepherd Gardens, new community for seniors SueAnn Howell Senior reporter

SALISBURY — On Jan. 3 Charlotte Bishop Peter Jugis dedicated Good Shepherd Gardens and prayed that its future residents will experience the peace of Christ.

Good Shepherd Gardens is the second senior living apartments complex built by the Diocese of Charlotte Housing Corp. in partnership with the North Carolina Housing Foundation. Located on the Sacred Heart Church campus on Lumen Christi Lane in Salisbury, it is an 18-unit building designed for low-income seniors aged 62 or older.

Each one-bedroom apartment is 540 square feet and includes Energy Star appliances to promote energy conservation.

Some units are handicapped accessible, and visiting providers will offer periodic on-site social, health, educational and spiritual activities for residents. It sits just a short distance away from Sacred Heart Church and School.

The complex features a community room, community kitchen, parlor, library, porch, patio, storage units and an elevator,

See more photos At www.catholicnewsherald.com: Check out more photos and a video from the blessing of Good Shepherd Gardens.

besides laundry rooms on each floor.

The entire complex has been built using environmentally-friendly green building materials that provide a healthier living environment.

Rent is determined on a sliding scale depending on the residents’ income levels, and includes water, sewer and trash service.

The maximum income limit for individuals is about $19,500, and for a two-person household the maximum income limit is about $22,800.

The project was funded in part by a $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

In his comments during the dedication, Bishop Jugis said, “This blessing is not only for the building but also for you residents.

This blessing is for you, that God’s peace and God’s blessing will be with you as well.” dEdication, SEE page 21

NORTH WILKESBORO — An intriguing relic of Blessed John Paul II has been given to St. John Baptist de la Salle Church in North Wilkesboro, and parishioners will honor the late pontiff’s dedication to ecumenism by enshrining the relic during a prayer service kicking off the “Week of Prayer for Christian Unity” Jan. 18.

The parish is one of only a few in the United States so far to receive a first-class relic of Blessed John Paul, who shepherded the Church from Blessed John Paul II 1979 until his death in 2005. He was beatified May 1, 2011. A first-class relic is one that has been taken from the remains of a saint or blessed – in the modern era, Other that usually means Christian drops of blood on a Unity piece of cloth sealed Week in a reliquary. observances, “It is exciting news, see page 4. and the response by everybody is very positive,” said Father John Hanic, who has served as pastor of the close-knit Catholic communities in North Wilkesboro and Elkin for 10 years.

The relic is especially meaningful coming to the Charlotte diocese, Father Hanic noted, as Bishop Peter Jugis was ordained a priest by Blessed John Paul in Rome, and many people in the diocese have a devotion to the late pope.

Father Hanic requested the relic in a letter to Polish Cardinal Stanisław Dziwisz, Archbishop of Kraków.

Cardinal Dziwisz was a longtime friend and personal secretary to the late pope and now an ardent supporter of his beatification. Parishioner Aleksandra Gonzalez, who is married to Temoc Gonzalez, the Hispanic Ministry coordinator in the Boone vicariate, knows Cardinal Dziwisz from when she used to work in Rome. Aleksandra Gonzalez translated the letter into Polish, Father Hanic said, adding with a smile, “thank goodness” the positive response came back written in English.

The late pope’s blood was saved when medics drew some for testing while he was in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, not long before he succumbed to Parkinson’s disease. The specimen was saved, refrigerated and wound up in Cardinal Dziwisz’s custody.

When he received word about the relic, Father Hanic said he did not know exactly when it would arrive but “I wanted to really tie it in to Christian

For more

RELIC, SEE page 18

6

catholicnewsherald.com | January 18, 2013 OUR PARISHES

Local Hurricane Sandy relief collection exceeds $145,000 Joseph Purello Special to the Catholic News Herald

Your help still needed

CHARLOTTE — A total of $145,869.72 came in from parishes that held a special collection for Hurricane Sandy relief efforts, according to the Diocese of Charlotte’s Finance Office.

The funds were raised to support Catholic Charities USA’s immediate relief and long-term recovery operations in the East Coast states devastated by the storm, particularly New York and New Jersey.

Catholic Charities agencies staffed a toll-free phone line for people to get the help they needed, visited parishes and coordinated volunteers to collect and distribute food and supplies, gave out immediate financial aid, provided expert help for insurance claims, and provided holiday meals and toys for families in need.

Catholic Charities assisted more than 4,000 people in Camden, N.J., alone.

With the New Year, the agencies are now working on long-term disaster recovery operations, including finding permanent housing and assisting disaster victims in obtaining funds to repair or rebuild their homes.

“A thousand thanks to everyone who has helped, donated to, volunteered with and supported Catholic Charities and the victims of Hurricane Sandy,” Catholic Charities posted to its website, www.catholiccharitiesusa.org.

Bishop Peter Jugis expressed his admiration for the Hurricane Sandy disaster response from the diocese he shepherds. “The generous outpouring of kindness and support from our parishioners, our Catholic school students,

Consider making a donation to Catholic Charities USA to support the relief effort: online at www.catholiccharitiesusa.org, by calling tollfree 800-919-9338, or by mail to P.O. Box 17066, Baltimore, MD 21297-1066.

and our Knights of Columbus councils are a witness to the great love of Christ that impels us to serve others in need. Our prayers continue for the many victims of this storm and for the Lord’s blessing upon the compassionate response of Catholic charitable entities.”

Joseph Purello is the director of the Office of Justice and Peace for the Diocese of Charlotte’s Catholic Social Services, an affiliate agency of Catholic Charities USA. Parishioners across the diocese have raised money and collected items to aid the victims of Hurricane Sandy along the East Coast.

A special second collection encouraged at all parishes in November raised more than $145,000, and multiple parishes and schools held their own donation drives – including St. Mark School in Huntersville (pictured).

Photo provided by Amy Burger

Travel with other Catholics to Alaska!

Local CCHD grants help in fight against poverty Application deadline Feb. 15 Joseph Purello Special to the Catholic News Herald

CHARLOTTE — The Catholic Campaign for Human Development remains one of the U.S. bishops’ primary efforts to fight poverty at the grassroots level. The annual CCHD national collection, held in November, is a source of both national and local funds to support organizations addressing the root causes of poverty in America.

This past spring, local CCHD grants totaling $40,843 were awarded to 14 Catholic parishes and non-profit organizations in 11 cities of the Diocese of Charlotte. These 14 local grants were awarded to parishes and non-profit organizations that are: addressing homelessness and food insecurity; helping ex-prisoners reenter into society; fostering school mentoring partnerships with faith communities; promoting financial literacy; or assisting the terminally ill through end-of-life compassionate care. In addition, a national CCHD economic development grant of $70,000 was awarded last year to Opportunity Threads, a cut-and-sew worker cooperative in Morganton.

Local CCHD grants have helped organizations like Gifts of Kindness/ Samaritan’s Promise, a Christian faithbased non-profit headquartered in Andrews, which runs three stores in far western North Carolina that sell nonfood items (such as toilet paper, diapers, linens, shampoo, lotion, soap, toothpaste and household cleansers) at substantially lower prices (usually 70-75 percent below retail) to households that income-qualify to be shoppers. Gifts of Kindness requires an application process to determine that the income of shoppers is 250 percent or less of the federal poverty level. A thrift store run by Gifts of Kindness provides additional income to the non-profit.

The non-profit receives a great deal of support from the Catholic community, including strong volunteer support from nearby St. William Parish in Murphy and Immaculate Heart of Mary Mission in Hayesville, along with regular donations from Charlotte’s St. Matthew Church’s “Donated Goods” program to help keep the thrift store stocked with quality gently-used items. Catholic Social Services’ Office of Economic Opportunity has supported Gifts of Kindness since its beginning, providing seed money for its first store in Andrews through the OEO Growing Opportunities Grant Program.

This past year’s local CCHD grant of $4,553 to Gifts of Kindness helped the organization to renovate a larger facility in Hayesville where floor space is more than double the space of the former facility.

Nancy Barger, the organization’s executive director, said, “The grant has been a blessing, to both Gifts of Kindness and the community in western North Carolina. We could not have afforded the renovation costs without this grant.”

When asked how she sees her organization’s role in fighting poverty, Barger said, “Most of our shoppers are people on fixed incomes who have to make decisions on what they can do with and without on a weekly and monthly basis. With our stores, we help people not to have to make the choice to do without items that many of us take for granted, like toothpaste and laundry detergent.”

Catholic Social Services, through its Office of Justice and Peace, sponsors the local CCHD grant program. Information can be found at www.cssnc.org/ccdhcrs.

The postmark deadline for applications to be submitted in this year’s round of grants is Friday, Feb. 15. All grant applicants and projects are reviewed for their conformity to Catholic social doctrine.

Joseph Purello is the director of the Office of Justice and Peace for the Diocese of Charlotte’s Catholic Social Services, an affiliate agency of Catholic Charities USA.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Alaska Cruise Plus a YMT Pacific Northwest Vacation

15 Days

Departs June 16, 2013

from

$2248*

Travel with other Catholics. Fly into Salt Lake City and enjoy the sightseeing highlights, then take a scenic drive to Jackson Hole, WY. See Grand Teton National Park, and spend 2 days in Yellowstone National Park before heading to Butte, MT. Travel through Montana’s “Big Sky Country” and through northern Idaho; see Coeur d’ Alene; Spokane; Grand Coulee Dam; and end in Seattle, Washington. Board the NCL Jewel for your 7-night Alaska Inside Passage Cruise. Next travel through a wondrous maze of forested-island and glacier-caved fjords, past charming costal villages, migrating whales and calving glaciers to Ketchikan, Juneau, Skayway and Victoria, British Columbia on Vancouver Island! Your YMT chaplain, Fr. Wittouck, SCJ is a former Army chaplain; was pastor of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Houston, TX and currently ministers in prisons and in the Cypress Assistance Ministries. This will be Father Wittouck’s seventh trip as a YMT Catholic chaplain. Single room add $1,600. *Price per person based on double occupancy. Airfare is extra.

For reservations & details & letter from YMT’s chaplain with his phone number call 7 days a week:

1-800-736-7300

BUILD UP THE CHURCH ONLINE! Are you a website designer who understand the power of the internet to connect with people? The Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte seeks a full-time webmaster to build and maintain its websites and further its mission of evangelization and outreach.

Working knowledge of Joomla, Apache, Linux, HTML/HTML 5, PHP, CSS, Java, Microsoft OS, IIS, Google Analytics and web security a must. Bachelor’s degree preferred, with 2+ years’ experience as webmaster. EOE. Email resume and salary history by Feb.15 to IT Director Scott Long, selong@charlottediocese.org. No phone calls, please.

January 18, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com

OUR PARISHESI

7

Your Local Catholic Charities Agency

Principal, St. Gregory the Great Catholic School (FT)

Record year for Brevard area blood drive BREVARD — The Knights of Columbus Council 8886 at Sacred Heart Church in Brevard recently completed its final blood drive of 2012, increasing collections over the previous year by 58 pints, or 15 percent. Through their efforts, 457 donors donated 441 pints of blood to the American Red Cross in 2012. The contributions represented a benefit of $132,300 to the Red Cross.

The parish has a track record of success in supporting the Red Cross. In 2010 and 2011, it ranked within the top 10 blood drive sites in Transylvania County and was ranked the top blood drive location in 2012.

Many of the donors contribute multiple times and include double red cell donors.

Double red cell donors must meet specific criteria, and the donation process is more complex and time-consuming. Donors are attached to a special machine while two units of red cells are collected and plasma and platelets are returned to the donor’s body. In contrast to the usual time of collection of one hour, double red cell donation takes about an hour and a half.

Why do people donate? Most donors responded: “Because it is the right thing to do” and “to help people in need.”

— Dorice Narins

Students at St. Pius X School gather with Monsignor Anthony Marcaccio to view the newest addition to the bell tower at St. Pius X Church in Greensboro.

Bluffton, SC Saint Gregory the Great Catholic School, where Faith and the Sciences Excel, a Pre-K through 6th grade Catholic School (effective July 1, 2013), with an enrollment of 200 students, is accepting applications for principal.

Located in Bluffton, SC, near Hilton Head Island, our school enjoys an excellent reputation as thoroughly Catholic and academically superior.

SGGCS “is a Catholic community dedicated to the mission entrusted by Jesus Christ to the Church. Our community provides an environment that helps to instill sound ideals, morals, and values guided by the Gospel of Jesus Christ. With God’s grace, our students will continue to enlighten their faith through personal prayer

and Christian attitudes.” We are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

The successful candidate must be a practicing Catholic who is able to continue the spirit of academic achievement and provide essential educational leadership in maintaining a vigorous Christian environment.

Candidate must hold a Master’s Degree in Administration or Education and have at least 5 years of teaching experience. This position reports to the Pastor.

Salary will be commensurate with degree and experience. Position is available for the 2013 – 2014 school year.

TO APPLY:

Please complete the Diocese of Charleston online application at their website:

www.sccatholic.org/human-resources

and include a curriculum vitae, cover letter, and references.

Additionally, mail official transcript of credits and verification of current school administration certification to:

Photo provided by Jean Navarro

New bell rings out at St. Pius X Church Ryan Murray Correspondent

GREENSBORO — Parishioners at St. Pius X Church in Greensboro may have recently noticed an added “oomph” prior to coming into the church for Mass. Certainly, no one’s ears have been playing tricks on them, as St. Pius X has recently added a fourth bell to the new church’s bell tower.

“It’s always been our intention to have a fourth bell,” said Monsignor Anthony Marcaccio, pastor. “I really love our bells, how they mark the passage of time, assist us in prayer, as with the Angelus call us to worship, joyfully announce celebrations, and create a more somber tone with the toll for funerals and penitential days.”

The fourth bell certainly had an immediate impact.

“The fourth bell is a happy addition particularly to our ‘peal’ of bells we ring on special occasions,” Monsignor Marcaccio said. “So, it went right to work ringing out Christmas joy and ringing in the new year.”

He added that the bells are not just a welcome addition for the parishioners of St. Pius X, but for the community surrounding the church as well.

“People underestimate the impact bells make for the environment of worship – and not just for our church but for the neighborhood,” he said. “They are great tools to evangelize and to communicate to the greater community what is happening in the life of our church. Sometimes, when the wind and weather are just right, it is remarkable how far the ring of the bells can reach.”

Saint Gregory the Great Catholic School Search Committee c/o Joseph A. Ruoto III, Parish Manager 333 Fording Island Road, Bluffton, SC 29909 or by email to:

ParishManager@sgg.cc All items must be received by Monday, February 18, 2013.

8

catholicnewsherald.com | January 18, 2013 OUR PARISHES

(Right) Father Andre Mangongo is greeted by his neighbors upon returning in 2009 to his hometown, Boyange in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

(Below) The hospital pharmacy. and laboratory.

Photos provided by Father andre mangongo

Congolese priest inspires outreach Order of Malta, St. Gabriel community rally resources for ‘Congo Project’ SueAnn Howell Senior reporter

CHARLOTTE — When he traveled there in 2009, 20 years had passed since Father Andre Mangongo had seen his home village of Boyange. This area of the Democratic Republic of the Congo had experienced great upheaval in the intervening years, so going home again was bittersweet.

Years of war have taken hundreds of thousands of lives, caused widespread famine and uprooted families across the DRC, devastating local communities including his hometown. The community that had once nurtured his Catholic faith and provided him the opportunity to go to seminary, become ordained and join the Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary was now in great need of assistance itself.

Father Mangongo – everyone calls him “Father Andre” – serves as parochial vicar of St. Gabriel Church in Charlotte, one of the largest parishes in the diocese with 3,300 registered families.

Among the parish’s many activities that connect it to the universal Church, it hosts members of the local chapter of the

Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of St. John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of Malta – better known as the Order of Malta. The oldest of Catholic lay religious orders, the Order of Malta was founded in Jerusalem in around 1048 to protect pilgrims in the Holy Land and care for the sick. It now has 13,500 members in 54 countries.

Every first Friday, St. Gabriel is the gathering place for members of the local chapter, where members attend Mass, meet and enjoy fellowship. It was at one of these regular gatherings in 2009 that Father Andre shared stories of Congo’s tragic civil wars and his recent visit home.

In particular, he related how the hospital in his hometown, once outfitted with modern equipment, is now empty, dilapidated and without electricity after years of neglect and inadequate funding.

The hospital also lacks basic medical supplies and medicines. It is staffed by four religious sisters of the Order of St. Therese.

Father Andre’s account of the plight of the Congolese people struck a chord with the Order of Malta members, who were so moved that Jerry Schmitt, Charlotte Regional Hospitaller, and John Gannon, chair of the Order of Malta Cares committee, asked him how they might help.

They formed a team that included Schmitt, Gannon and Dr. Don Joyce, who met with Father Andre on a regular basis to develop the outreach effort. They connected with the Mission Outreach ministry of the Springfield, Ill.-based Hospital Sisters of St. Francis to ship 12 tons of medical supplies to the Congo in a 40-foot shipping container.

Members of the local Order of Malta

worked with Mission Outreach, paying them a fee for storage and packing of the supplies. The medical equipment was provided by Mission Outreach free of charge. The group also shipped electrical equipment including a generator, convertor, wiring, breaker boxes, sockets and extension cords, as well as a piano for St. Paul Catholic Church in Boyange.

“The electrical needs, with appliances from the U.S. and from the Congo, was complicated,” Schmitt said. “The appliances from the U.S. needed a different voltage and different cycles per second from that needed by the appliances from the Congo. Fortunately Mike Grace, CEO of Cummins Atlantic LLC, had his experts design and build a generating system that would handle both needs. It was provided at a very affordable price. Cummins Atlantic also shipped to Mission Outreach, without charge, the generator and related supplies and even the piano Father Andre had been given.”

The container of supplies left in early December for what is a two-month journey to the port of Matadi, then trucked several hundred miles to Kinshasa where it will travel another 1,700 miles by boat up the Congo River to Lisala, the nearest city to Boyange. Local roads are poor, so the supplies will have to be transported the remaining 30 miles to Boyange in cars and small trucks.

Besides the difficult terrain, the shipment is at risk of being stolen or misdirected once it reaches the DRC, which continues to be plagued by violence, unrest and corruption.

But the Order of Malta members, who take great pride in their 900-year history

OUR PARISHESI

January 18, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com

9

centRal afRican Republic sudan

cameRoon Con

gabon

iv er go R

Republic of the congo

uganda

Congo

goma Lake Kivu

bukavu Kinshasa

Rwanda buRundi Lake Tanganyika tanzania

AfricA

zambia angola

©2008 cns

More about the Democratic Republic of the Congo

(Above) A Mass was celebrated in honor of Father Andre’s return. Despite many hardships and decades of war, Congolese Catholics continue to hold fast to their faith. (Below) The hospital’s maternity ward: this lady just gave birth to a beautiful baby. The hospital of St. Paul. All water and food for the hospital must be brought from the neighboring area, and the hospital has no electricity. Supplies that the Order of Malta helped procure are en route and will take until the end of January to get to their destination. of protecting travelers, have planned accordingly to keep the shipment of supplies safe until it reaches Boyange.

“Providence prevailed with the discovery that the order (which has diplomatic relations with many countries) has an embassy in Kinshasa, DRC,” Schmitt said.

“Ambassador Geoffrroy de Liedekerke was contacted and immediately offered his assistance, as he regularly receives shipments of donated supplies for distribution throughout the Congo.”

De Liedekerke has lived in Congo for more than 22 years and has served as a Knight of Malta for more than 15 years.

“He has assured us he does this regularly and will get the container through customs and keep it safe,” Schmitt said.

To fund the initiative, the local order received a $14,800 grant from the international order that covered about 33 percent of the expenses. The rest of the funding came from donations from Order of Malta members and St. Gabriel parishioners.

CONGO, SEE page 21

You can help For more information about how you can help Catholics in the Congo, contact Father Andre Mangongo at amangongo@ stgabrielchurch.org or call him at the church office at 704-364-5431.

More about Mission Outreach can be found at www.mission-outreach.org.

A former Belgian colony, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly called Zaire) is the largest country in Africa and the 11th largest in the world. About half of its 71 million people are Catholic.

The Congolese people have been plagued by war, disease, political repression and corruption for much of the past two centuries. They are among the world’s poorest despite their country having some of the world’s most extensive mineral reserves. These minerals, in high demand for manufacturing cell phones and computers, are fueling new conflicts that have killed or displaced tens of thousands.

For generations Belgian colonialists brutally exploited the Congolese – using slave labor, rape and mutilation to build a lucrative rubber trade. In the early 1900s international condemnation of the atrocities was spurred by Joseph Conrad’s novella “Heart of Darkness” and the writings of Mark Twain, Arthur Conan Doyle, Booker T. Washington and Bertrand Russell.

In 1960 Congo achieved independence, but in a 1965 coup Joseph Mobutu claimed absolute power.

Mobutu was the archetypal African dictator: For 30 years he siphoned off an estimated $5 billion from government coffers into Swiss bank accounts, conducted public executions of political rivals, and demolished the country’s economy and infrastructure while ignoring the extreme poverty of the Congolese people. Throughout the Cold War, the U.S. government supported the anti-communist leader.

In 1996 Congo was invaded by a coalition of Hutu militias from neighboring Rwanda and Uganda. The militias had fled to the area after taking part in the 1994 Rwandan genocide, killing upwards of 1 million Tutsis in 100 days. The corrupt dictatorships in Rwanda, Uganda and Congo had been interfering in each other’s domestic politics for years, and the unrest sparked a civil war in Congo that overthrew Mobutu in 1997.

The militias, led by Laurent Kabila, coveted Congo’s extensive mineral deposits, and it didn’t take long for Kabila to set himself up as dictator. But Kabila alienated his allies, sparking a second civil war in 1998.

He was assassinated in 2001, and his son Joseph Kabila succeeded him. Following elections in 2006, he now serves as president.

The 1998 civil war, fueled by various rebel groups competing for mineral-rich areas, is sometimes referred to as the “African world war” because it involved nine African nations. It was the world’s deadliest conflict since World War II, killing 5.4 million people.

Despite U.N. troops arriving in 2001 and a 2003 peace accord, fighting continues between the government and Rwandan-supported rebels fighting over key mining areas in the east. In 2012 a surge in violence was kindled by rebels who briefly captured the provincial capital Goma.

Congo’s Catholic bishops have repeatedly pleaded for peace, calling for an end to the illegal exploitation of natural resources, citing that as “the main cause of this war.” They have criticized the “balkanization” of Congo, advocated by neighboring countries such as Rwanda that want to divide it and claim its minerals.

For years the Church has provided essential institutions and services where the government has failed – including running most of the nation’s schools and hospitals, managing networks of farms and small businesses, and caring for refugees and victims of sexual violence.

— Wikipedia, Catholic News Service

10

Let’s keep talking.

catholicnewsherald.com | January 18, 2013 OUR PARISHES

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief

SEVEN GIFTS

Fine Catholic Merchandise

www.sevengiftsltd.com

You are invited to attend a Reflection and Book Signing with Fr. Herbert Burke Friday, February 1 at 7 p.m.

Light refreshments Seating is limited – RSVP STORE HOURS:

Tuesday- Thursday 10 – 4 Friday 10 – 6

Conveniently located at 1200 South York Rd. (Rt. 321) Gastonia, NC 28052

704-271-4149

Shop anytime www.sevengiftsltd.com

Bishop invites the faithful to two special events CHARLOTTE — Bishop Peter J. Jugis invites everyone to two special events to be celebrated at St. Patrick Cathedral: n Celebration of Vespers for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 23. Come to pray Evening Prayer with Bishop Jugis and the bishops of LARCUM (Lutheran, Anglican, Roman Catholic and United Methodist) for Christian Unity. This is a unique opportunity during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, to be with the leaders of some of the largest Christian denominations in western North Carolina. n Mass for the Celebration of the World Day for Consecrated Life: 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 2. Blessed John Paul II instituted this annual observance to honor the gift of the Consecrated Life in the Church. At this Mass Bishop Jugis will also honor all religious sisters and religious brothers who are celebrating jubilees of vows this year. All the faithful are invited to come to honor our religious sisters and religious brothers for their ministries of service to the Lord in the Charlotte diocese.

Bishops call for driver’s licenses for young immigrants Both North Carolina Catholic bishops, Charlotte Bishop Peter J. Jugis and Raleigh Bishop Michael F. Burbidge are asking North

Man of Prayer.

Man of Action.

Featuring:

Dr. Ray Guarendi*

Third Annual Charlotte Catholic Men’s Conference Sponsored by: Knights of Columbus, Fathers For Good and

Fr. Larry Richards* also Bishop Peter Jugis and Bishop William Curlin *Fr. Richards and Dr. Guarendi will also speak at the Women’s Night of Reflection February 15, 2013.

Details at www.ccwg.eventbrite.com

Saturday, February 16, 2013 St. Matthew Catholic Church '13Ad.indd 1

Find more conference details at:

www.cltcmc.org 1/7/13 1:24 PM

Carolina Attorney General Roy Cooper for a prompt ruling on the issuance of driver’s licenses to undocumented people who have received two-year deportation deferrals from the federal government.

In June 2012, the Obama Administration put into place the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, which prevents the deportation of an estimated 1.8 million undocumented immigrants who were brought to the United States as children before their 16th birthday. To qualify for the two-year work permit, the person must be no older than 30, be a high school graduate, attending college or university or have served in the U.S. military.

Those who are granted deferrals receive work permits and obtain Social Security numbers, allowing them to work legally in the U.S. To date, more than 350,000 people nationwide have applied for this deferment, including many in North Carolina. It is estimated that approximately 18,000 young people in North Carolina are affected by the President’s Deferred Action Program.

In their letter to Roy Cooper on his awaited decision, Bishop Burbidge and Bishop Jugis wrote, “Having received federal recognition through the Deferred Action program, these men and women must be provided the opportunity to legally drive, so that they may fulfill their duties and commitments as employees and students in our state.”

Should the attorney general find that the federal deferral documents do not comply with the requirements of state law, Bishop Burbidge and Bishop Jugis also call upon the N.C. General Assembly to modify the existing law to rectify this conflict.

Charlotte Catholic Men’s Conference coming up Feb. 16 CHARLOTTE — All men of the diocese are invited to the third-annual Charlotte Catholic

Men’s Conference, to be held Feb. 16 at St. Matthew Church, 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy. in Charlotte.

Featured speakers include Catholic writer, clinical psychologist and humorist Dr. Ray Guarendi; and Father Larry Richards, inspirational speaker and author of the bestselling “Be a Man! Becoming the Man God Created You To Be.” Bishop Peter J. Jugis and Bishop Emeritus William G. Curlin will also speak at the day-long conference, as well as celebrate Mass and lead Eucharistic Adoration.

For details and registration information, along with multiple resources for your faith journey, go online to www.cltcmc.org.

A companion Women’s Night of Reflection will be held Friday, Feb. 15, hosted by the Charlotte Catholic Women’s Group. For details, go online to www.ccwg.eventbrite.com.

St. Matthew Parish restricts Communion during flu season CHARLOTTE — St. Matthew Church in Charlotte has temporarily suspended distribution of the Precious Blood during Communion, responding to general concern about the increase in local influenza rates.

There is no evidence that a shared communion cup transmits germs, but many clergy across the U.S. – particularly dioceses in New York, Boston and parts of Texas – have adopted similar measures as the number of flu cases has risen. The choice to distribute the Eucharist under one or both species is usually left up to individual pastors. The Diocese of Charlotte has not issued any diocese-wide guidelines.

Monsignor John McSweeney, pastor of St. Matthew Church, also cautioned parishioners to limit hand-to-hand contact during the exchange of peace or the Lord’s Prayer at Mass. The parish has also placed hand sanitizer dispensers at all of the church’s entrances.

January 18, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com

OUR PARISHESI

Operation Rice Bowl begins soon The season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 13, and with it comes the annual Rice Bowl campaign of Catholic Relief Services.

With a new name, a refreshed design and numerous new resources created to enrich the experience of Lent, CRS Rice Bowl offers meaningful ways for Catholics to embrace Lent this year. By highlighting the beauty of the Lenten trio – prayer, fasting, and giving – CRS Rice Bowl connects people more closely with the global mission of the Church.

“The program’s new message, ‘For Lent, For Life: What you give up for Lent changes lives’ captures the essence of the sacred call to love thy neighbor. In this Year of Faith, as declared by Pope Benedict XVI, CRS Rice Bowl is ready made to help individuals and faith communities embark on a season of spiritual renewal,” said Joan Rosenhauer, CRS’ executive vice president of U.S. operations.

Twenty-five percent of the monies collected through CRS Rice Bowl remain in the dioceses where it is collected to address the needs of the local community.

Parish, school and family resources, including prayers, multimedia educational materials and meatless recipes, can be ordered or downloaded online from www.crs.org or by calling 1-800222-0025.

PdmVstAng_5_10.pdf

his right hand is raised in benediction. Pope Innocent XIII originally fixed the Santo Niño Feast to the third Sunday in January to avoid conflict with Eastertide. Pope Paul VI elevated the Church of the Santo Niño to the rank of minor basilica on its 400th anniversary.

1

4/30/10

1:37 PM

Now serving Charlotte and Greensboro

— Dr. Cris Villapando C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Feast of Santo Niño celebrated

704-549-4010 336-665-5345

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Approximately 500 Filipino Catholics from both North and South Carolina recently gathered at St. John Neumann Church in Columbia, S.C., to celebrate the Santo Niño Fiesta, pictured at right. This annual feast marks the arrival of the Christian faith into the Philippines in 1521, when Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan offered the gift of a statue of the boy Jesus to Lady Humamay after her conversion to the Christian faith.

Lady Humamay was the principal wife of Rajah Humabon, the chieftain of Cebu, Philippines.

The image of Santo Niño is usually portrayed with the child Jesus holding a golden sphere (to symbolize the world) in his left hand and

13th Annual Kennedy Lecture

The Dark Nights of Malcolm X

For the past 15 years it has been my pleasure to help the employees of the Diocese of Charlotte plan for a secure retirement.

I would also like to be your trusted financial advisor.

Retirement planning – Life – LTC – Auto & Home Insurance

Ken Altman

Call: 704-839-3755 or email: kaltman1@metlife.com Member: National Association of Insurance & Financial Advisors (NAIFA) St. Mark Catholic Church – Huntersville

Catholic Spirituality and the Challenge of Social Justice Saturday, January 26, 2013 9:00-11:30 a.m.

St. Peter Catholic Church Prices are ALLINCLUSIVE w/Airfare from anywhere in the continental USA

Italy Regular: Apr. 6-14, Apr. 13-21, Apr. 20-28 …

Italy/Switzerland: Apr. 6-18, Apr. 13-25, Apr. 20-May 2, Apr. 27-May 9 …

Holy Land: Apr. 1-11, Apr. 8-18, Apr. 15-25, Apr. 22-May 2, Apr. 29-May 9..

Holy Land/Italy: Apr. 1-14, Apr. 8-21, Apr. 15-28, Apr. 22-May 5 …

Trips to Scotland, France, Ireland, Shrines of Europe and much more.. ranging from $3,599—$4,699 for 2013.

Carmela A. Dupuis www.proximotravel.com 508-340-9370

email: anthony@proximotravel.com

855-842-8001 Executive Director

Reverend Bryan N. Massingale, s.t.d.

Associate Professor, Marquette University Noted lecturer and commentator on issues of social and racial justice

Reverend Massingale will explore the major conversions of Malcolm X’s life in the light of the Carmelite understanding of the “dark night of the soul.”

He will show the implications of this spirituality for pursuing social justice and the challenges of church membership in these trying times.

St. Peter Catholic Church | 507 South Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC Parking is free (enter to the left of the church) ADMISSION IS FREE Questions: Email: KennedyLecture@gmail.com or call the church office: 704-332-2901

Made possible by a generous gift from the Joan and Keith Kennedy Family

11

12

catholicnewsherald.com | January 18, 2013 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Celebrating 40 years!

Diocese of Charlotte

Beloved Our Lady of the Hills Camp sowed seeds for Catholic Conference Center ‘Our Lady of the Hills’

There’s a Catholic camp nestled in the mountains so green,

With the wandering trails and the lakes so serene.

Our Lady of the Hills we’ll always be true,

This beautiful camp is a blessing from you.

We work and we play in your honor each day,

And the memories will stay as the years pass away.

— Our Lady of the Hills Camp: Prayer and Songbook, undated

Historic property holds memories for generations of Catholics SueAnn Howell Senior reporter

HENDERSONVILLE — In late 1955, Bishop Vincent Waters bought 250 acres just south of Hendersonville to be used as a diocesan retreat center for the people of the diocese. Our Lady of the Hills Camp was a popular destination for North Carolina Catholics for the next 30 years.

Family vacations, conferences and a summer camp for youth were offered at the newly-named Catholic Assembly Grounds, more commonly called Our Lady of the Hills Camp.

The property included Highland Lake (also known as Madonna Lake), an Olympic-size swimming pool, an open-air gymnasium and the historic Trenholm-Rhett homestead.

The land had been part of a 1789 land grant to John Earle, and over the years it had belonged to several prominent owners, including Secretary of the Confederate Treasury George Trenholm and South Carolina Gov. William Aiken.

The camp opened its doors on June 10, 1956. From the start, it welcomed people of all races, making it the first racially integrated camp in the region.

Campers enjoyed archery, riflery, baseball, swimming, canoeing, dramas, boxing and horseback riding. Part of the daily camp schedule included morning and evening prayer, Mass, and recitation of the rosary.

Priests, religious orders, paid staff and volunteers all contributed to the camp’s daily operations.

Two staff members, Carmen and Dorothy Falcone, assisted in running the camp for much of its existence. Carmen Falcone worked at Duke University as an assistant professor in the physical education department and he coached wrestling and football. His wife Dorothy was a dietician at Duke Hospital.

Carol Dawson, a parishioner and 30-year employee of Immaculate Conception Church in Hendersonville, was involved with the camp.

January 18, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

Left: Our Lady of the Hills campers and their canoes are shown in this undated photo.

Right: Bishop Vincent Waters (center) visits Our Lady of the Hills Camp in 1958. Below: A June 1957 file photo of Bishop Waters with campers, staff, clergy and religious at the camp.

Below: Bishop Waters observes the flag being raised during the dedication of the camp in 1956. Bishop Waters blesses the lake, then known as “Madonna Lake,” during the dedication. Bottom right: Campers enjoy horseback riding at the camp in 1972.

photos provided by diocese of charlotte archives

Her youngest son, Douglas, assisted the Falcones in kitchen.

“In the early ’80s I organized several women’s retreats which we held at the camp,” Dawson recalls. “Our parish also held annual picnics there. We would have what we called a garbage can dinner (potatoes, cabbage, corn on the cob, topped with sausages) and it would cook over an open fire over several hours, so we always had games for the adults and the kids…it was a wonderful gathering and attended by many of all ages. A time to really get to know each other.”

Thanks to people like the Falcones and Dawsons, Our Lady of the Hills Camp made a positive impact on the surrounding community.

Monsignor John McSweeney, former chancellor of the diocese and current pastor at St. Matthew Church in Charlotte, served as camp administrator from 1977 until it its closure in 1985.

“The camp was always full, about 300 children each session and about 100 college and high school counselors and staff, including seminarians and religious sisters. Monsignor (Joseph) Showfety and Monsignor Bill Pharr were also some of the key people involved.”

Monsignor McSweeney emphasizes that the camp was an important place for catechism, Spanish and English classes, tutoring and youth ministry.

In October 1978, the Diocese of Charlotte Youth Ministry office relocated to the camp. The former infirmary building was winterized for year-round use by the Youth Ministry office, which was growing at such a vibrant pace that it needed a full-time facility for its directors and programs.

Seven years later, in 1985, the decision was made to sell the property due to financial concerns. The Aug. 16 closing ceremony featured Mass, a cookout and fireworks. On the Feast of the Coronation, Aug. 22, 1985, the property was sold. The Highland Inn and Conference Center was established on the former camp location.

Money from the sale of Our Lady of the Hills Camp was then used to buy land near Hickory to develop the Diocese of Charlotte’s Catholic Conference Center – at the time, the largest capital investment by the diocese in its history.

On Dec. 18, 1988, the Catholic Conference Center was dedicated by the diocese’s second bishop, Bishop John Donoghue.

The 33,000-square-foot Catholic Conference Center features 50 hotel-style guest rooms and accommodates individual guests and

13

overnight groups up to 200 people. Five conference rooms can host up to 314 people. The dining room seats up to 160 people, with retracting walls that allow for up to 250 diners.

The 178-acre property boasts beautiful mountain views and ample outdoor space for quiet walks and prayer, and it is a popular retreat center. The property also includes a chapel and a private retreat house.

The Conference Center shares the broader evangelical call of the diocese to build the Catholic community in the counties of western North Carolina. It also opens its doors and offers hospitality to other Christian communities in the state, their leaders, congregations and organizations. As a meeting facility, the Catholic Conference Center is available to civic, educational and governmental agencies, to professional societies, and other non-profit organizations whose purposes are compatible with Church teaching.

Deacon Guy Piche, director of Diocesan Properties and manager of the Conference Center, believes it fulfills an important role “as an excellent mode of evangelization to the other churches using the Center.”

More online At www.catholicconference.org: More information and photos of the Catholic Conference Center

14

iiiJanuary 18, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com

FROM TH

Pro-life marchers resolute despite rain Hundreds march for life in Charlotte, mourning the evil of abortion SueAnn Howell Senior reporter

CHARLOTTE — Approximately 450 prolifers from around the diocese braved the elements to walk in the seventh annual Charlotte March for Life through uptown Charlotte Jan. 11.

The march commemorates the 40th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court ruling which SEE MUCH MORE legalized COVERAGE ONLINE! abortion in the U.S. At catholicnewsherald. com: Join the hundreds of and has people across the country led to the who tuned in to be part of slaughter of the Charlotte March for Life, more than and view video highlights and photo galleries from 55 million the march. unborn babies since 1973.

The marchers steadfastly braved a rainy, windy and chilly Friday to pray for an end to abortion, offer public witness to the need to protect all human life, and hand out materials explaining alternative options for pregnant women in need of help.

The day’s events began with a morning Mass at St. Vincent de Paul Church in Charlotte. Father Peter West, vice president of missions for Human Life International, served as main celebrant and homilist.

After Mass, people of all ages then gathered at the

diocesan Pastoral Center to pick up pro-life signs and rosaries to carry in the march.

A large mobile ultrasound bus – said to be the only one of its kind in North Carolina – was blessed

by Father West before the march and led the way for the procession as marchers streamed out of the Pastoral Center parking lot. The bus was donated by the Knights of Columbus, and it travels to abortion facilities to provide women with free ultrasounds of their unborn babies, giving them more information before deciding whether to continue their pregnancies.

Father Mark Lawlor, pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Church in Charlotte, carried the crucifix at the front of the procession, an annual tradition for him. He was followed by Missionaries of the Poor brothers from Monroe, Knights of Columbus, priests, deacons, students, families and supporters of life into the streets of uptown Charlotte for the seventh annual march to offer public witness in the middle of uptown Charlotte and then on to pray in front of the federal courthouse.

At Independence Square, the city’s center, Father West addressed the crowds and passersby.

“We come here to mourn, and I think the weather is appropriate for mourning,” Father West said.

“We mourn the decision Roe v. Wade, which in 1973 declared an entire group of human beings to be non-persons. This reminds me of another mournful decision of 1857: the Dred Scott case, which declared African Americans to be non-persons. There are so many parallels between the Dred Scott decision and Roe v. Wade.

“Intellectuals, politicians and clergy defended slavery and so also intellectuals, politicians and clergy sadly support abortion. Instead of talking about abortion rights as they do today, people in the 19th century spoke of slavery rights. People said, ‘It had always been with us, it will always be with us.’

“They say the same thing about abortion.”

Father West went on to draw parallels between the historic scourge of slavery and the contemporary

scourge of abortion.

“This is the tendency of the human heart, to want to dehumanize people and deprive them of their rights. We’ve seen it with Native Americans, African Americans, the enemies of the Soviets under Communism, Jewish people, women, and today the unborn and the medically dependent and disabled.”

Two speakers from Silent No More, a national nonprofit group of men and women affected by abortion, also gave testimonies during the rally.

Ruben Flores, a parishioner of Sacred Heart Church in Salisbury, stood with his 4-year-old son Damian on the edge of the rally, handing out pro-life literature and rosaries to passersby.

“We came to the first march when he was a baby,” Flores explained. “Today I brought my mom, who is visiting from Mexico. We are here to pray with all of you. We are pro-life.”

Dan Lange, a state warden with the Knights of Columbus and parishioner of St. John the Evangelist Church in Waynesville, kept vigil at the corner of Trade and Tryon streets during the rally, among dozens of Knights who help guide the annual march and aid the marchers. He and his wife Norma have been married for nearly 25 years, and they have nine children and 23 grandchildren. They are expecting their first great-grandchild in May. “Folks say, ‘How can you have so many children?’,” Lange said. “I say, ‘We’re Catholic and we’re prolife!’”

Marchers then proceeded down West Trade Street to the Charles R. Jonas Federal Courthouse, where the rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet were prayed.

Matthew Townsend, 14, a parishioner of St. Ann Church in Charlotte, came to the march with his family.

“This is probably my fourth time (marching),” Townsend said. “Babies in the womb can’t talk and they don’t have a say. We can, so we need to stand up for those babies that don’t have a choice.”

MARCH, SEE page 18

40 years after Roe v. Wade, pro-life movement strengthens its resolve WASHINGTON, D.C. — Forty years after the U.S. Supreme Court legalized abortions, the pro-life movement hasn’t stepped back in its resolve to see the decision reversed.

Each year near Jan. 22, the day of the Roe vs. Wade and Doe vs. Bolton decisions on abortion, tens of thousands of protesters march in Washington and San Francisco and also take part in local events across the country hoping to change abortion laws.

This year will be no exception.

The annual March for Life in Washington will take place Friday Jan. 25 – instead of Jan. 22 – to avoid a scheduling conflict with public ceremonies for the presidential inauguration.

Jeanne Monahan, the new president of

the March for Life Education & Defense Fund, which organizes and runs the rally and march each year in Washington, said hotels reserved for march participants filled a month earlier than usual, serving as just one indication that this year’s event will draw record crowds. Monahan said she expects a bigger turnout this year because of the “huge pro-life loss during the election” and the “somber reality” of the 40-year anniversary of the Supreme Court’s decisions.

“People are very passionate about this issue ... and they want to make their voices heard” she said.

— Catholic News Service

Join in the virtual March for Life from D.C. At www.catholicnewsherald.com: Follow the Catholic News Herald’s senior reporter SueAnn Howell in Washington, D.C., as she marches for life on the 40th anniversary of Roe v.

Wade. Read complete coverage of the National March for Life, including photos of the North Carolina Mass for Life on Friday, Jan. 25, and news from local marchers.

Also at www.catholicnewsherald.com: Watch live video from the National Vigil for Life Mass, to be streamed starting at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 24.

Are you going to the march, or have you gone in years past? Share your thoughts and photos with us on Twitter @CatholicNewsCLT and on Facebook.com/ CatholicNewsHerald.

HE COVER

January 18, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.comiii

Above: Father Mark Lawlor (far left), pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Church in Charlotte, carries the crucifix in the Charlotte March for Life Jan. 11. Accompanying Father Lawlor at the beginning of the procession are Father Peter West, vice president of missions for Human Life International, who addressed the crowds during the rally at Independence Square, and Deacon Daren Bitter of St. Matthew Church in Charlotte. Brothers from the Missionaries of the Poor in Monroe follow behind carrying the Divine Mercy image and pro-life signs as more than 450 people marched in the annual march from the Pastoral Center to the federal courthouse.

At left: Men, women and children braved rain and wind in front of the federal courthouse while praying the rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet. The march was broadcast live online by the Catholic News Herald, its first live mobile broadcast. More than 125 people tuned in to watch and pray along with the marchers. photos by sueann howell | catholic news herald

15

16

catholicnewsherald.com | January 18, 2013 FROM THE COVER

Clockwise from left: Deacon Brian McNulty of St. Patrick Cathedral in Charlotte leads the Divine Mercy Chaplet in front of the federal courthouse. Jackie Childers shares her postabortive witness testimony during the rally at Independence Square. Lay faithful hold signs, holy images and rosaries during the rally.

David Hains

Catholics and the media: smartphone journalism

I

once worked at a TV station in Charlotte that would occasionally commit to live coverage of an important local event. Blessed John Paul II’s 1987 visit to Columbia, S.C., was a good example.

Dozens of people spent hundreds of hours working on million-dollar equipment that included a helicopter and satellites to broadcast a three-hour program to a local audience.

Fast forward 26 years of digital advancement in communication technology and you get live coverage of last week’s Charlotte March for Life.

But this inaugural coverage didn’t come from an over-the-air TV station, and the broadcast was not limited to the Charlotte area. The Catholic News Herald brought the web-based coverage to you.

Rest assured, the diocese doesn’t have dozens of people or millions of dollars worth of equipment to broadcast the spectacle of hundreds of marchers taking a stand for life.

So how did we do a two-hour webcast?

Well, let’s see, we had a smart phone, a monopod to stabilize the images of a crowd of people on the move, a web portal to present the video, and the pluck of the CNH staff to try something new. The whole thing cost less than $100.

But this is more than a pat on the back for a pioneering afternoon of TV. Our March for Life coverage represents the future of bringing news about the Catholic faith to our audience.

In general, the news media have little or no interest in the growing pro-life movement or about people of faith.

Once again the Charlotte March for Life received scant local TV news coverage, with no station even assigning a reporter to it, and we received no print coverage in the Charlotte Observer.

Editors tell me they aren’t interested in the March for Life because it is the same story every year. That’s comical when you consider the frenzied Christmas shopping stories that are repeated ad nauseam, year after year after year.

I get it. The media are not willing to cover stories that fly in the face of adamant editorial positions that demean women and deny the right to life for the unborn.

But now, thanks to technology, their attitude of denial isn’t as relevant.

Organizations traditionally overlooked by the mainstream media now have ways to tell their own stories.

Adding live television to our already formidable line-up of online journalism, recorded video and the hardcopy print coverage of this newspaper is our latest innovation. It won’t be our last.

David Hains is the diocesan director of communication. Contact him at dwhains@ charlottediocese.org.

Above from left: Father Mark Lawlor during the blessing of the Knights of Columbus ultrasound bus (in background) before the march.

Father Michael Kottar from Shelby (left) and Deacon John Kopfle from St. Vincent de Paul Church in Charlotte (right) pray in front of the federal courthouse. The Rusciolleli family prays during the Mass for the Unborn at St. Vincent de Paul Church, which was celebrated before the march. A baby peers at the camera during the Mass for the Unborn Jan. 11.

January 18, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com

Father Mark Lawlor elevates the Eucharist during the Mass for the Unborn at St. Vincent de Paul ,Church Jan. 11. Father Peter West (right), vice president of missions for Human Life International, concelebrated the Mass.

We must have faith to overcome the culture of death Editor’s note: The following is excerpted from the homily Father Peter West delivered at Mass Jan. 11. The Gospel reading was Luke 5:12-16: “I thank Father Mark Lawlor for welcoming me to speak to you today. I am the vice president for missions for Human Life International, an international pro-life organization founded by the Benedictine priest Father Paul Marx. We are seeking to combat abortion, contraception, sterilization, physician-assisted suicide, euthanasia and other attacks on innocent human life, and promoting a culture of life and natural family planning as well.

We have affiliates and associates in over 85 countries.

“Please pray for the work of Human Life International, as it is increasingly difficult because we see attacks on life not only in the United States but elsewhere. We see the culture of death, spreading poison throughout the world.

“In order to understand today’s Gospel (in which Jesus heals the leper), we have to understand the disease of leprosy, which was contagious, a disease of the nerves and skin which caused horrible disfigurement and eventually death. Today, doctors call it Hansen’s disease and it can be arrested, but not cured.”

In the Gospel reading, Father West noted, “The leper realizes that his cure is simply a matter of Jesus willing it.”

“What great faith this man had! If only we had such faith. Jesus sees his need, and answers his prayer.

“We might ask, why doesn’t Jesus cure every sickness, every disease? His primary role was to save us from sin. The physical healing that He does is a sign that He can heal us spiritually. In heaven there will be no more death, there will be no more illness, no more disease. But here is a time of testing.”

“The way that the Lord wills to make us clean is through the sacrament of penance.

Some might say, ‘why should I confess my sins to a man?’ Because this is the way that Jesus willed it” when He gave the Apostles the responsibility of forgiving sins.

“All of us need to be cured of our spiritual ailments, we need to be honest with the Lord, to admit our weakness. We need to present our ailment to the Divine Physician, who will heal us as He wills.”

Then the Gospel notes that Jesus went

away from the people and spent time in personal prayer.

“If the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity needed to get away and pray, how much more do we need to get away and pray? It shows us how to give a supernatural dimension to all of our actions.”

Father West noted that in struggling against the culture of death, the Gospel reading teaches us to love our neighbor, to define who our neighbor is as generously and expansively as possible. Jesus reached out to the blind, the lame, the lepers, women and children who had no rights, people of other races, anyone in need.

“Unfortunately there is a tendency in our society today, a tendency in the human heart, to want to dehumanize people and to deprive them of their rights. This is what we see with the Roe v. Wade decision of 1973: the unborn, dehumanized and deprived of their rights.”

Just as with the 1857 Supreme Court case Dred Scott v. Sandford, which defined an entire race of people as sub-human and not protected by the constitution – widely considered to be the worst decision ever made by the Supreme Court – our country is burdened by a similarly bad judgment that fails to protect the unborn, Father West said.

“America is facing a similar trial today.

Today the conflict is between a culture that affirms, cherishes and celebrates the gift of life, and a culture that seeks to declare an entire group of human beings – the unborn, the terminally ill, the handicapped, and others considered to be un-useful – to be outside the boundaries of legal protection.”

“What the pro-life movement warned long ago has come to pass: a lack of respect for life at its beginning stages has led to a lack of respect for life at its end stages, and therefore a lack of respect for life in general, in all stages of development.”

Father West warned that God will judge each of us on how we have treated others, especially the least among us: the unborn, the unwanted, the orphan, the pregnant woman in need of help and comfort.

Then he encouraged the faithful: “There’s an old Jewish proverb that says, if you save even just one life it’s as if you’ve saved the entire world.”

The power of prayer can overcome the culture of death, he said, especially joined with faith and confession. “We need to be holy. We need to strive for holiness if we are to combat the culture of death.”

“With the help of God, we can overcome the culture of death. We need simply to have the faith of the leper, to pray and to do our part to end abortion and to bring a new protection for all human life, from the moment of conception to the moment of natural death.”

17

Catholic Social Services of the Diocese of Charlotte Executive Director: Gerard A. Carter, Ph.D. (704) 370-3250 Refugee Office: Cira Ponce (704) 370-3262 Family Life: Gerard Carter (704) 370-3228 Justice and Peace: Joseph Purello (704) 370-3225 OEO/CSS Murphy Satellite Office (828) 835-3535 Charlotte Region: 1123 South Church St., Charlotte, NC 28203 Area Director: Sharon Davis (704) 370-3218

sueann howell | catholic news herald

Father Peter West: All life has dignity

FROM THE COVERI

Your Local Catholic Charities Agency

Western Region: 50 Orange Street, Asheville, NC 28801 Area Director: Michele Sheppard (828) 255-0146 Piedmont-Triad: 627 W. Second St., Winston-Salem, NC 27101 Area Director: Diane Bullard (336) 727-0705 Greensboro Satellite Office (336) 274-5577

For information on specific programs, please call your local office.

www.cssnc.org

Strengthening Families. Building Communities. Reducing Poverty.

THE ORATORY 434 Charlotte Avenue, P.O. Box 11586 Rock Hill, SC 29731-1586

(803) 327-2097

Center for Spirituality rockhilloratory.org

oratorycenter@gmail.com

33rd ANNUAL CARDINAL NEWMAN LECTURE What We Say to the Kids About God and Grownups Need Faith Lessons, Too Saturday, February 16, 2013 9:30am – 4:00pm

Alice Camille The Newman Lecture is an annual gift from the Rock Hill Oratory to the regional Church to celebrate the life and ministry of the English Oratorian, Blessed Cardinal John Henry Newman.

The lecture is open to all without charge and includes noontime Eucharist, a light lunch and a short chamber music concert.

Pre-registration is not required but we would appreciate you contacting us with the number of participants in your group so we can plan accordingly.

18

catholicnewsherald.com | January 18, 2013 FROM THE COVER

RELIC: FROM PAGE 5

unity.” The small package arrived via FedEx at Christmas time, he noted.

The parish plans to encase the gold reliquary in a frame and display it permanently inside the church, but an exact location has not been determined, Father Hanic said. He would like the relic to be viewed easily, but the layout of the small church presents a challenge, he said.

As the second-longest serving pope, Blessed John Paul made historic strides to foster Christian unity and dialogue with non-Christian faiths.

He organized the first World Day of Prayer for Peace in Assisi, Italy, in 1986, which included 160 religious leaders. He was the first pope to travel to England, where he met with the queen as head of the Church of England; and to Israel, where he made history by touching one of the holiest sites in Judaism, the Western Wall in Jerusalem, placing inside it a letter that asked for forgiveness for the Church’s past actions

MARCH: FROM PAGE 14

Tina Witt, a parishioner of St. Patrick Cathedral in Charlotte, organizes the march every year. “I was very impressed with the turnout for the march and rally,” Witt said following the march. “With the weather on the wet side, I was grateful for every soldier showing up for duty! Father

against Jews. He was also the first pope known to have made an official visit to a synagogue. He was the first pope in more than a thousand years to travel to Greece and other predominantly Eastern Orthodox countries, and the first pope to visit a Lutheran church. He was the first pope to meet with the Dalai Lama, and the first to pray in a mosque.

Emphasizing the teachings of the Second Vatican Council, he encouraged an ecumenical spirit to bring about reconciliation and peace.

St. John Baptist de la Salle and its mission, St. Stephen in Elkin, will host the special prayer service to begin Christian Unity Week at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 18. Ministers from local churches will participate in the hour-long service, which will feature a song, Scripture reading and prayer followed by a reception. Everyone is welcome.

Other U.S. churches possessing a similar relic of the late pope include the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy in Stockbridge, Mass.; St. Stanislaus Kostka Church in Rochester, N.Y.; St. Stanislaus Bishop & Martyr Church in Buffalo, N.Y.; and St. Joseph Church in Camden, N.J.

West and Jackie Childers gave powerful speeches, and the fervor of the priests, religious and lay people was awesome to see. Many evangelization pro-life kits and rosaries were distributed, too. It is very important to stand up in our own backyard – that was the very reason why this march was started. If every village, town and city had a pro-life witness like this throughout the last 40 years, abortion wouldn’t have perpetuated like it has. The truth about abortion has been so hidden. These marches expose the truth.”

CHURCH FATHERS: FROM PAGE 2

Many people are familiar with the two empire-wide persecutions in the 200s and early 300s, but most of the time the Christian community suffered daily from petty abuse, provocations from local leaders and random attacks. One could be robbed, fined, jailed, beaten, tortured, raped or killed – and there was no way to predict trouble or avoid it altogether.

“That perhaps made them worse,” Abbot Placid noted. “You never knew when a local persecution might break out.”

This “uncertainty of martyrdom” characterizes the lives, faith and writings of the early Christians, he said.

The martyrs – the word means witness – did not fear a gruesome or violent death as much as they refused to deny Jesus, Abbot Placid said. Denying Jesus, they believed, would make life not worth living.

He said the early bishops recognized the hard road that newly-baptized Christians would face, so they spent a great deal of time teaching and preparing catechumens. The process often took years. The rite of baptism we know today is actually compacted to a ceremony performed in one place at one time, but in the early Church the prayers were more distinct and separate steps that involved exorcising and turning away from the devil, turning towards God and being introduced to the Church community, reciting the creed, and being deemed worthy of baptism. These preparations culminated with baptism, confirmation and Holy Communion celebrated together as the sacraments of initiation.

Many of the early Church Fathers’ writings dealt with teaching the catechumens and explaining the creed.

Their thinking was that baptism opened the door to the real risk of persecution, so Christians needed to know and understand their faith so they could handle any trouble that came their way.

They also needed to know that they could not participate in many aspects of daily public life in the Roman empire – for example, no positions of leadership in society or politics, and no military service.

“Making this profession of faith put your life on the line. It was not something that was casually undertaken,” Abbot Placid said.

Not all early Christians faced the threat of martyrdom for their faith, but the Christians who did saw their sacrifice almost in a Eucharistic sense, as if they were participating at Mass, he explained.

But instead of joining their prayers to the priest’s sacrifice at the altar, they joined their suffering with Jesus’ Passion at the altar of the cross.

Martyrs such as St. Ignatius of Antioch, St. Polycarp, St. Perpetua and St. Felicity intensely identified themselves with Jesus’ suffering, knowing that He would take on their suffering and be with them in their deaths. They offered themselves as sacrifices to God. However, Abbot Placid explained, they were not eager to die nor did they invite trouble. “One does not seek out martyrdom but accepts it when it comes.”

Does all this seem remote and ancient history?

Think again, Abbot Placid said.

“The Church is still persecuted today,” he said. People are suffering across the globe for their faith in Jesus, making our understanding of the faith more vital than ever.

Charlotte Catholic High School

Please Join the Catholic Schools of the Diocese of Charlotte in Celebrating Catholic Schools Week Each of the nineteen Catholic Schools reflect this year’s theme of promoting high academic standards and Catholic identity.

They proudly reflect the steady growth illustrated by this year’s logo, a chart culminating in the highest achievement of all, a cross representing the faith that underscores all Catholic education.

Catholic Schools Week January 27th-February 2nd

Visit one of our schools during Catholic Schools Week For more information http://schools.charlottediocese.org

Our schools

January 18, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

19

“It’s a big job, building a fine arts center and a parking deck. But we have to ask ourselves – are we satisfied with a school that has some of the best high school sports in the state but doesn’t have a place where the band can practice their halftime show? Are we OK knowing that our students are attending the top universities in the country but have never watched a school musical in an auditorium?” Sheridan asked.

“We are Charlotte Catholic! We’re the sea of red on Friday nights, win or lose. We’re Morehead scholars.

We’re the prayer before we start each class. We’re the 300 kids who showed up for daily Mass on Tuesday to pray for three classmates who are very sick. We play and pray and learn with heart,” she said.

Guests enjoyed a fashion show with modeling by students and mothers during the luncheon, along with a raffle for prizes. They also competed for best table décor. Top honors went to Sheila Fassler’s group (Meredith Boll, Karen Huth, Paula Knish, Cathy Malone, Mary O’Shields and Ann Sheridan), who crafted an elegant “Silver Sparkle in Winter” theme.

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief

— Jennifer B. Johnson

St. Michael students help during Christmas GASTONIA — Eighth-graders at St. Michael School in Gastonia volunteered to work at Operation Christmas Child in Charlotte Dec. 3, accompanied by their teacher Greg Davidowitz and parents. Students helped for four hours by inspecting and wrapping gift packages that went out to needy children for Christmas.

— Pat Burr Photo provided by Jeff Stoller

CCHS hosts ladies tea, fund raiser

Bishop McGuinness basketball team volunteers

CHARLOTTE — More than 120 mothers, daughters, grandmothers, aunts, sisters and girlfriends enjoyed tea at Charlotte Catholic High School Dec. 1, hosted by the CCHS Foundation to raise money for a proposed expansion of the school.

Keynote speaker Ann Sheridan, a Charlotte Catholic parent and local TV news reporter, spoke about her beginnings as a mother and new beginnings at the school, encouraging the ladies to help support the school’s plan to build ancillary facilities to expand its campus in Pineville.

St. Pius students perform in play GREENSBORO — Students at St. Pius X School in Greensboro put on a Nativity play Dec. 19.

— Jean Navarro We welcome your school’s news and photos. Please email items to Editor Patricia L. Guilfoyle at plguilfoyle@charlottediocese.org.

WINSTON-SALEM — Members of the Bishop McGuinness High School boys basketball team spent the day Dec. 31, 2012, volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House in Winston-Salem. The team joined several other community groups, including church youth groups and civic organizations, in helping the local Ronald McDonald House. During their day of service, the boys helped break down and store more than 1,000 of the luminaries used each year by Ronald McDonald Charities as a fund raiser to help families and children in need. The Ronald McDonald House of Winston-Salem provides a “home away from home” for families of children who are receiving medical care in nearby hospitals. The House and Family Room programs offer physical comforts, emotional support, education and referral services designed to promote the well-being of the whole family.

Our Lady of

Mercy

Catholic School Celebrating 55 Years of

A Blue Ribbon School of Excellence for PreK-8th

Faith Academics Values

Join us for an Open House: - January 29, 9:00 - 11:00 a.m.

- February 21, 9:00 - 11:00 a.m.

- March 4, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

For more information or a private tour, contact Lara Davenport via e-mail at ldavenport@ourladyofmercyschool.org, or visit our Admission web page.

Our Lady of Mercy Catholic School 1730 Link Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27103 (336) 722.7204 www.ourladyofmercyschool.org Welcoming students of all races, religions, ethnic and national origins.

Service learning

Open House:

February 7th at 9:30 a.m. (Pre-K to 8th grade) February 11th at 6:30 p.m. (Middle School)

Mix 20

catholicnewsherald.com | January 18, 2013 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

For the latest movie reviews: catholicnewsherald.com

In theaters

‘Passages’ is a worthwhile journey to experience Marleen Chiaravalle Special to the Catholic News Herald

‘Promised Land’ Reasonably entertaining message movie about the environmental dangers of drilling for natural gas using a method called hydraulic fracturing - fracking for short.

About a dozen uses of profanity, much rough and crude language.

CNS: A-III (adults); MPAA: R

‘Zero Dark Thirty’ Challenging account, based on real events, of the decade-long hunt for terrorist leader Osama bin Laden.

CNS: A-L (limited adult audience); MPAA: R

Additional movies: n ‘Texas Chainsaw 3D’: CNS: A-O (morally offensive); MPAA: R n ‘Silver Lining Playbook’: CNS: A-III (adults); MPAA: R n ‘Jack Reacher’: CNS: A-L (limited adult audience); MPAA: PG-13 n ‘Parental Guidance’: CNS: A-I(general patronage); MPAA: PG

CHARLOTTE — A recent advertisement in the Catholic News Herald caught my attention: part of the extensive Bible collection of the Green family (owners of Hobby Lobby) are on tour in Charlotte in an exhibit called “Passages.” The display is hailed as a unique experience that showcases Bibles and biblical artifacts in a topical setting, giving the viewer a more intimate understanding.

This rare opportunity was too accessible to pass up, so I traveled to Innovation Park to experience it.

Words do not do the exhibit justice, nor does its web site, www.explorepassages.com. This impressive collection of relics, Torahs, Bibles and artifacts is almost overwhelming, yet it is displayed in such a logical and informative order that the journey becomes one of joyful discovery.

Items are arranged chronologically in 23 “theme” rooms, including the Qumran Caves, St. Jerome’s Cave, a Gutenberg Press Print Shop, the Jerusalem Chamber in Westminster Abbey, and a World War II room featuring Torahs and artifacts that survived the Holocaust. The exhibit is an interactive, multimedia experience that includes informative posters, short films, animatronics, and theaters to guide viewers on their journey.

Viewers can see fragments of the Dead Sea Scrolls, Torahs and cases, documents, Bibles in several languages, pieces of art, and early Reformation Bibles. By placing these items in historical context, the exhibit makes understanding the story of the compilation, translation and distribution of the Bible more real, more tangible and more emotional.

For a more interactive experience, there is a scavenger hunt for children, a “handwritten Bible” where guests are invited to transcribe a passage from one of the four Gospels, and a free speaker series (reservations required due to limited seating). Upgrade the tour by renting an iPod that provides additional commentary and photographs. There is even a gift shop that

Catholic Schools Director of Development The Diocesan Office of Development has an opening for a full-time director of development for Catholic Schools. The candidate must be a college graduate with a degree in marketing, communications, or related field. He or she must have at least three years experience in fundraising and marketing, and have experience with computer related programs. Responsibilities include managing two regional annual giving campaigns, handling all aspects of production of newsletters and annual reports, and serving as liaison to regional schools, foundation boards, and parish based Catholic schools.

Please submit resume by February 11, 2013 to Jim Kelley, Office of Development, jkkelley@charlottediocese.org. or mail to 1123 South Church Street, Charlotte, NC 28203-4003.

On TV n Tuesday, Jan. 22, 11 p.m. (EWTN) “Portraits of Courage – Cry of the Faithful.”

Interviews with Dr. Richard Fitzgibbons, Father John Harvey and Father James B. Lloyd present the benefits of support groups for people with same-sex attractions. n Wednesday, Jan. 23, 6:30 p.m. (EWTN) “Hearing God.” A moving and uplifting look at Father Christopher Klusman’s call to the priesthood and the obstacles he faced as a deaf priest.

Photo provided by the Green collection

This Latin Vulgate Bible dates from the 14th century, and is just one of many historical Bibles and other scriptural texts on display at the Passages exhibit in Charlotte.

sells souvenirs from the Holy Land, artwork and additional resource materials.

Given that we can walk into any bookstore, in just about any country, and purchase a Bible in any language or edition, the history of the Bible is something that we rarely consider or appreciate.

This spiritually enriching experience will reaffirm the timeless impact of God’s involvement in the history and salvation of man, and man’s efforts to preserve and spread that Good News.

Marleen Chiaravalle is a member of St. John Baptist de La Salle Church in North Wilkesboro.

More online At www.explorepassages.com: Get details and ticket information about the “Passages” collection, located at 8405 IBM Drive in Charlotte.

n Thursday, Jan. 24, 6:30 p.m.

(EWTN) “Opening Mass of the National Prayer Vigil.” Live coverage as Cardinal Sean P. O’Malley, archbishop of Boston and chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities, leads the opening Mass of the National Prayer Vigil for Life from Washington, D.C.’s Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. n Friday, Jan. 25, 7:30 a.m.

(EWTN) “Closing Mass of the National Prayer Vigil.”

Broadcast live from the national basilica. n Friday, Jan. 25, 9 a.m.

(EWTN) “March for Life.”

Continuous coverage of the 2013 March for Life. n Friday, Jan. 25, 5 p.m.

(EWTN) “Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul: Celebration of Vespers.”

Pope Benedict XVI will preside over this service of evening prayer from Rome’s Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls.

January 18, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

CONGO:

DESECRATED:

FROM PAGE 9

FROM PAGE 5

“Our effort to help Father Andre is a way to say ‘thanks’ to a priest who went to a seminary in the Congo specifically to be a missionary, and after being in several places, including China, has come to St. Gabriel,” Schmitt explained.

“This project was also a way to thank Father Frank and St. Gabriel for the continued use of their facilities.”

The supplies are scheduled to reach Congo later this month.

Father Andre is looking forward to the delivery of the supplies and generator to the sisters and the medical facility at St. Paul, from their brothers and sisters in Christ from Charlotte, and how they will make a huge difference in the lives of his people.

He would like to travel to Boyange to help distribute the donations, if possible.

“I want them to get good use of the supplies and acknowledge that they receive it and help them understand that people put a lot of time and money in to help them. I want to make sure it gets into good hands,” he said.

Father Andre said he appreciates the efforts of his local Catholic community in coming to the aid of his hometown.

“I am so thankful to the Order of Malta and to the local Catholics who heard about the need and got involved. I was born there and the people did invest in me – protecting me, raising me. I got the faith there. I got my call there and now I am serving here, so you can see how we are connected.”

T

He noted, “The ceremony conducted by the bishop on Saturday afternoon was peaceful and commanding. When we began I felt there was an air of darkness in our church. After the rites were concluded, the church was once again bathed in the light of truth. The sacraments of reconciliation and the Eucharist were celebrated that evening as scheduled.”

The broken window has been boarded up and is expected to be repaired later today or tomorrow, Hains said. The damage was estimated at $2,500 for the window, and about $100 for the broken statue (which has since been repaired).

There was no other damage reported.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg police processed the crime scene and took the altar cloth, containing the drops of blood, as evidence. No arrest has been made, and the police investigation continues.

Father Winslow thanked “the many people offering prayers and support for our parish family after the events of this past weekend,” adding, “We are grateful also to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department for their prompt and thorough response.”

“Throughout the Christmas season we Catholics reflected upon how the light of God overcame the darkness of our world,” he said. “On Saturday the same light pushed back the darkness yet again. We feel quite protected and grateful.”

“An informal afternoon with incomparable musicians.”

This month Gaudium Musicae features the newly formed Carolina Men’s Chorus, in its inaugural season. The group is comprised of music professors, professional soloists and choral directors from across the Charlotte metro area. CMC’s rst performance took place at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Belk Theater as a part of the 25th Anniversary Celebration of Mecklenburg Ministries.

Conducted

by Carey Cannon, the group’s repertoire covers a broad spectrum which includes pop, broadway, folk and classical music.

Now in its third season, Gaudium Musicae showcases the musical gifts of the area’s outstanding artists set in the ne acoustics of St. Ann Catholic Church. You can experience both the beauty of the sound and the intimate connection between artist and instrument.

Conducted by Carey Cannon Come enjoy the music at St. Ann Catholic Church and meet the 3635 Park Road, Charlotte 28209 artists at the reception to follow.

Tickets: www.StAnnCharlotte.org

Sunday Jan. 27, 4:00 pm

Carolina Men’s Chorus

Adults: $12 / Students: $8 Children 12 and under FREE Call 704-523-4641 ext. 221 110_Ads_v2.indd 2

10/17/12 9:34 AM

DEDICATION:

21

research on Catholic charities’ websites, found the contact information for the Diocese of Charlotte Housing Corp. and left a message for Jerry Widelski, director.

FROM PAGE 5 He returned her call and assisted her through the process.

“It’s just a miracle. I don’t know why I’m One of the first residents to move in here,” Malcolm said. “God will show me, at Good Shepherd Gardens was Mabel though.”

Ebright, the mother of Father James Also present for the dedication were Ebright, a diocesan priest who is studying Bishop Emeritus William G. Curlin, canon law at the Catholic University of who started the diocesan America in Washington, D.C. housing initiative in 2001; She was the second person Monsignor Mauricio West, to turn in an application for vicar general and chancellor Good Shepherd Gardens and of the diocese, who is also moved in Jan. 7. She relocated president of the Diocese of from Mocksville 15 miles away.

Charlotte Housing Corp.; “I’m so excited,” Ebright Jerry Widelski, the housing said, adding she is thrilled that corporation’s director; Garry her new apartment home faces Merritt, president of the N.C. towards Sacred Heart Church.

Housing Foundation; Sacred “It’s right next to the church.

Heart Church’s Father Jason It’s beautiful. It’s brand new!”

Barone and Sister Mary She told her family, “I can Robert Williams; Father live here. When I die I will be James Ebright; Jon Sarver of buried here. In the meantime the Sarver Housing Group; I can go to church here.”

Phil Kiester of Tise-Kiester Patricia Malcolm will — Bishop Peter Jugis Architects; and Randel be one of Ebright’s new Stanley of Garanco General Contractors, neighbors. who helped build Good Shepherd Gardens.

Malcolm is originally from New York but In his closing remarks, Bishop Jugis recently relocated from Florida. She is now said, “We’re asking for God’s peace to thankful to be near her grandson, who is dwell in this house and to dwell in the attending college in North Carolina.

She said she is still surprised about finding heart of every resident who is here.

“Where there is Christ, there is peace. a new affordable home after putting her Ultimately, Jesus is the Kingdom of God, name on long waiting lists in other states. so in welcoming the Kingdom of God “It’s a miracle,” Malcolm said.

– in welcoming Christ’s peace – you’re She attributes finding Good Shepherd welcoming Jesus Himself.

Gardens to an answered prayer that she “So peace, the kingdom of God, God prayed after living with other family Himself, and the blessing of Christ’s members and helping to take care of her presence, the presence of Jesus, is what grandchildren. “I prayed and told God I we wish upon this house this day, upon the needed a place of my own.” residents and all who come to visit.”

Malcolm, who is Catholic, did some

‘We’re asking for God’s peace to dwell in this house and to dwell in the heart of every resident who is here.’

Our nation 22

catholicnewsherald.com | January 18, 2013 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Bishops urge Catholics to pray for life, marriage, religious liberty Invitation to ‘prayer and penance,’ second Fortnight for Freedom planned “May this call to prayer, penance and action help increase awareness among the faithful of the serious challenges we face, and build their spiritual stamina and courage to be effective witnesses to their faith.”

— Bishop Peter Jugis in a Jan. 9 letter to pastors encouraging participation in the nationwide Call to Prayer for Life, Marriage and Religious Liberty

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Catholic bishops have launched a pastoral strategy addressing critical life, marriage and religious liberty concerns. The overall focus is to invite Catholics to pray for rebuilding a culture favorable to life and marriage and for increased protections of religious liberty.

Five campaign components include monthly Eucharistic Holy Hours in cathedrals and parishes, daily family rosary, special Prayers of the Faithful at all Masses, fasting and abstinence on Fridays, and the second observance of a Fortnight for Freedom in June-July.

Within this national campaign is a nine-day novena Jan. 19-27 to mark the 40th anniversary of Roe v. Wade. Since that tragic decision in 1973, more than 55 million children’s lives have been lost to abortion and the lives of millions of their parents have been shattered. The “Nine Days of Prayer, Penance and Pilgrimage” effort is a simple novena available electronically with daily prayer intentions for the healing and conversion of our nation, for elected officials who support abortion, and for all people whose lives have forever been changed by an abortion.

The bishops’ national call to prayer for life, marriage and religious liberty is prompted by the rapid social movements and policy changes currently underway, such as the mandate by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that coerces employers, including heads of religious agencies, to pay for sterilizations and contraceptives, as well as increased efforts to redefine marriage.

“The pastoral strategy is essentially a call and encouragement to prayer and sacrifice – it’s meant to be simple,” said Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone of San Francisco, chairman of the bishops’ Subcommittee for the Promotion and Defense of Marriage. “It’s not meant to be another program but rather part of a movement for life, marriage, and religious liberty, which engages the New Evangelization and can be incorporated into the Year of Faith. Life, marriage and religious liberty are not only foundational to Catholic social teaching but also fundamental to the good of society,” he said.

Details of the strategy are: 1. Starting with the Sunday after Christmas (Feast of the Holy Family) and continuing on or near the last Sunday of every month through Christ the King Sunday, Nov. 24, cathedrals and parishes are encouraged to hold a Eucharistic Holy Hour for life, marriage and religious liberty.

2. Families and individuals are encouraged to pray a daily rosary, especially for the preservation of life, marriage and religious Liberty in the nation.

Opponents of the HHS mandate rallied outside the federal courthouse in Charlotte June 8, 2012. The U.S. bishops have launched another campaign urging Catholics to pray and witness for the protection of life, marriage and religious freedom.

Patricia L. Guilfoyle | Catholic News Herald

3. At Sunday and daily Masses, it is encouraged that the Prayers of the Faithful include specific intentions for respect for all human life from conception to natural death, the strengthening of marriage and family life, and the preservation of religious liberty at all levels of government, both at home and abroad.

4. Abstinence from meat and fasting on Fridays are encouraged for the intention of the protection of life, marriage and religious liberty, recognizing the importance of spiritual and bodily sacrifice in the life of the Church.

5. The celebration of a second Fortnight for Freedom at the end of June and the beginning of July is being planned to emphasize faith and marriage in a particular way in the face of the potential Supreme Court rulings during this time.

The Fortnight would also emphasize the need for conscience protection in light of the Aug. 1 deadline for religious organizations to comply with the HHS mandate, as well as religious freedom concerns in other areas, such as immigration, adoption and humanitarian services.

In addition, the U.S. bishops will launch a nationwide postcard campaign Project Life and Liberty in early February, calling on Congress to prevent federal funding and promotion of abortion and to protect the rights of conscience in health care.

— U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops

INTERESTED IN BEING A PERMANENT DEACON? Ordained Minister of the Liturgy, the Word, of Charity Application Period for Permanent Deacons

The application period for the next formation class of permanent deacons will open soon: Interested men will be invited to attend the information meeting on March 9, 2013. Applications will be distributed following this meeting.

The basic norms expected of applicants can be found on the Charlotte Diocese Website (www.charlottediocese.org) Permanent Deacon page. These include completion of the diocesan Lay Ecclesial Ministry program by the year 2014. If you would like to attend the information meeting or would like more information please email.

Director of Formation, Deacon Scott Gilfillan, at sdgilfillan@charlottediocese.org or Director of the Permanent Diaconate, Deacon Ron Steinkamp, at rfsteinkamp@charlottediocese.org.

‘Nine Days of Prayer, Penance and Pilgrimage’ begins Jan. 19 WASHINGTON, D.C. — The first major component of the U.S. bishops’ national call to prayer for life, marriage and religious liberty coincides with the 40th anniversary of the legalization of abortion later this month. A nine-day novena – dubbed the “Nine Days of Prayer, Penance and Pilgrimage” – runs Jan. 19 to 27. A simple novena and additional resources are available electronically with daily prayer intentions for the healing and conversion of our nation, for elected officials who support abortion, and for all people whose lives have forever been changed by an abortion.

— U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops

Go online At www.usccb.org/9days: Learn more and sign up for the free emailed daily prayers of the “Nine Days of Prayer, Penance and Pilgrimage” Jan. 19-27.

At www.usccb.org/life-marriage-liberty: Get more resources on these issues from the USCCB. At firstamericanfreedom.com: Learn more about the threats to religious freedom at home and abroad, and get prayer resources and educational materials.

January 18, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief Dolan urges governor to rethink support for ‘radical’ abortion bill NEW YORK — A New York measure to prevent state regulations on abortion is a “radical” bill in a state where the abortion rate is already “double the national average,” New York Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan told Gov. Andrew Cuomo Jan. 9. The cardinal made the comments in a letter to the governor after Cuomo delivered his annual State of the State address, which opens the legislative session. In his speech, Cuomo outlined an agenda for the coming session that includes reforming gun laws, improving the state’s health care system, bettering care for the mentally ill, working for safer schools and raising the minimum wage. He also backed a number of measures on women’s issues, including the proposed Reproductive Health Act to codify abortion in state law.

Judge: L.A. archdiocese must reveal names in sex abuse case LOS ANGELES — The Archdiocese of Los Angeles must reveal the names of Church officials included in 30,000 pages of personnel files that will be released with information related to allegations of child sexual abuse by Church employees, a Superior Court judge ruled Jan. 7.

The Associated Press and Los Angeles Times reported that Judge Emilie H. Elias reversed a previous ruling by a retired federal judge who

had said that material to be released should have names redacted to prevent the documents’ use to “embarrass or ridicule the Church.”

During a Jan. 7 hearing on a request by media organizations to order the names to be released, Elias asked an attorney for the archdiocese, “Don’t you think the public has a right to know ... what was going on in their own church?” the Times reported.

The Archdiocese of Los Angeles said in a brief statement that Elias had revised the previous judge’s order “acknowledging that much of the information in question has already been made public by the archdiocese in the 2004 “Report to the People of God” and updates released in the subsequent proffers.” The statement said the archdiocese would abide by the judge’s decision. “We are now working with all parties involved to facilitate the release of the documents as promptly as possible.”

23

Mark your calendar for these upcoming pro-life events!

Washington, D.C. Vigil Mass, January 24, 2013, Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

6:30pm – 9:30pm.

Supreme Court lets stand policy on embryonic stem-cell research funds

Cardinal Sean Patrick O’Malley, O.F.M. Cap, Principal Celebrant and Homilist

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Supreme Court Jan. 7 let stand a lower court order allowing government funding of research involving certain embryonic stem-cell lines. Without comment, the court let stand an August ruling by the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia which dismissed a lawsuit by two scientists who said the funding policy inhibits their chance of getting government grants for their research on adult stem cells, and argued that violates another law.

Under a 2009 policy, the government began allowing federal funding of research on human embryos that were created for in vitro fertilization but were no longer needed for that purpose. Under a previous policy, government funding was allowed only on stem cells derived from a handful of lines that existed to that point.

Mass for NC Pilgrims, January 25, 2013, Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Upper Church.

— Catholic News Service

11:30am. Bishop Michael Burbidge, Principal Celebrant. Bishop Peter Jugis, Homilist.

March for Life, January 25, 2013.

Please check website: www.marchforlife.org for information.

Your Local Catholic Charities Agency Respect Life Office

Mary King

Look who’s enjoying carefree retirement living!

Good friend and satisfied resident of Pennybyrn at Maryfield.

Mary King has many friends…and she’s always encouraging them to join her at Pennybyrn at Maryfield. She likes how good it feels to not have to cook, clean or worry about home repairs. Plus all the fun trips, movies, concerts—for Mary, it’s a great way to be around people and stay busy. “I didn’t give up a thing when I moved to Pennybyrn—it’s been perfect for me!”

Are you ready to enjoy carefree retirement living?

Call (336) 821-4050 or toll-free (866) 627-9343.

109 Penny Rd., High Point, NC 27260 www.PennybyrnAtMaryfield.org Located less than a mile from downtown Jamestown and only 10 minutes from Greensboro. All faiths welcome.

Our world 24

catholicnewsherald.com | January 18, 2013 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Pope baptizes, welcomes babies into a personal relationship with Jesus Francis X. Rocca Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY — The Sistine Chapel sounded a bit like a nursery Jan. 13, as Pope Benedict XVI baptized 20 babies, whose crying provided a constant accompaniment to the two-hour Mass on the feast of the Baptism of the Lord.

Referring to the day’s reading from the Gospel St. Luke, which Also online recounts the baptism of Jesus

by St. John the Baptist, Pope At www.catholicnewsherald.com: Benedict said that in choosing Check out Catholic News Service’s to receive the sacrament, short video “Baptized by the Pope” Jesus showed He “was really immersed in our human condition; He lived it to the utmost – although without sin – and in such a way that He understands weakness and fragility.”

The pope told the parents that their children’s baptism would bring them into a “personal relationship with Jesus” that would give their lives meaning: “Only in this friendship is the great potential of the human condition truly revealed and we can experience what is beautiful and what is free.”

Reminding the godparents of their duty to assist parents in raising their godchildren in the faith, Pope Benedict noted that “it is not easy to demonstrate what you believe in openly and without compromise, especially in the context in which we live, in the face of a society that often considers those who live by faith in Jesus to be old-fashioned and out of date.”

Contrary to a widespread view that Christianity is “detrimental to personal fulfillment,” the pope said, faith in Jesus frees us from egoism and “keeps us from being turned in on ourselves, in order to lead a full life, in communion with God and open to others.”

As in previous instances of the annual tradition, the baptized babies, who this year included a pair of twins, were all children of Vatican employees and were born during the preceding three months.

“It was a moment of grace and great simplicity,” said Alessandro Gisotti, whose daughter Maria Teresa was one of those baptized. He said the event required no special preparation, apart from a rehearsal two days earlier, led by the pope’s master of liturgical ceremonies, Monsignor Guido Marini.

Gisotti, a journalist at Vatican Radio, and his wife Nicole were accompanied by their son Andrea Karol, 4, who received a special blessing from the pope after the Mass.

That evening the Gisotti family celebrated with friends at their parish in the seaside community of Ostia, about 18 miles southwest of Vatican City.

His pastor had happily given permission for Maria Teresa to receive the sacrament in another church, Gisotti said, since “of course, pope is the pastor of us all.”

CNS | L’Osservatore Romano via Reuters

Pope Benedict XVI baptizes a baby during a Mass in the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican Jan. 13. The pope baptized 20 babies as he celebrated the feast of the Baptism of the Lord. The pontiff told parents that baptism would bring their child into a “personal relationship with Jesus” that would give their lives meaning.

Learn Rosary Making A Catholic Tradition

704-841-1160

Contact us for a catalog and introductory offer!

South Charlotte & Union County, NC Bathing / Dressing Assistance

803-610-4200

York, Lancaster & Chester Counties, SC

Dedicated to Rosary Making!

rosaryparts.com (800) 342 - 2400

January 18, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief Pope: Be like good Samaritan, help those in need VATICAN CITY — In a message for the 2013 World Day of the Sick, Pope Benedict XVI called on everyone to be a good Samaritan and concretely help those in need. Thanking those who care for the sick and elderly, the pope underlined the Church’s fundamental role in “lovingly and generously accepting every human being, especially those who are weak and sick.” The World Day of the Sick is celebrated annually Feb. 11, the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. The Vatican released the text of the papal message Jan. 8.

Pope Benedict expressed his affection for all those “undergoing a time of trial due to illness and suffering,” and he prayed that they remember they are not alone, marginalized, forgotten or useless. “You have been called by Christ and are his living and transparent image,” he said, quoting from a message delivered by the fathers of the Second Vatican Council in 1965 “To the Poor, the Sick and the Suffering.”

The Gospel parable of the Good Samaritan is just one of many accounts that show how Jesus expected His disciples to behave toward others, especially those in need, the pope said. Through prayer, people can draw strength from God’s infinite love to “live day by day with concrete concern, like that of the Good Samaritan, for those suffering in body and spirit who ask for our help, whether or not we know them and however poor they may be,” he wrote.

Pope: Peace is impossible without openness to God VATICAN CITY — Deploring war, civil conflict and poverty around the world, Pope Benedict XVI told foreign ambassadors assembled at the Vatican that peace-building requires charity, religious liberty, a proper understanding of human rights and openness to divine love.

Pope Benedict made his remarks Jan. 7 in his annual address to members of the Vatican’s diplomatic corps, presenting a survey of global troubles including “endless slaughter” in civil war-torn Syria, terrorist attacks on Christians in Nigeria and the impact of Hurricane Sandy.

He also warned about the international spread of legalized abortion and growing inequality between rich and poor.

“Peace is not simply the fruit of human effort, but a participation in the very love of God,” he said. “Without openness to the transcendent, human beings easily become prey to relativism and find it difficult to act justly and to work for peace.”

Vatican official: Italy is unique in its concern with our finances VATICAN CITY — The Swiss finance lawyer hired to monitor the legality and transparency of Vatican financial activity said the Italian central bank’s concerns about the Vatican’s vulnerability to money laundering are not shared by other European countries or international agencies.

Citing a supposed lack of Vatican controls to prevent money laundering, the Bank of Italy denied a request by Deutsche Bank Italia to continue providing credit and debit card services in Vatican City State. Because of the decision, the Vatican Museums, supermarket and other entities have been unable to accept credit- or debit-card payments since Jan. 1.

“I’m truly surprised by the measures taken

by the Bank of Italy. No other country in the world has adopted similar measures,” said Rene Brulhart, the 40-year-old director of the Vatican’s Financial Information Authority. “Moneyval” – the Council of Europe’s Committee of Experts on the Evaluation of Anti-Money Laundering Measures and the Financing of Terrorism – issued its evaluation of the Vatican’s financial and banking laws in July and said the Vatican met nine of its 16 “key and core” recommendations to prevent finance-related crimes.

French bishops’ spokesman: ‘Listen to the streets’ on marriage PARIS — A French bishops’ spokesman urged politicians to “listen to the streets” after hundreds of thousands of people rallied against same-sex “marriage.” “We’re facing questions about society – what the family is, what marriage is, and whether there’s a difference between men and women,” Monsignor Bernard Podvin, spokesman for the French bishops’ conference, told France’s Metro daily. “I’m not one who says the street must decide, because this is always dangerous, and political responsibility rests with those elected. But the street is expressing a great frustration today – those holding political responsibility can’t expect to govern without listening to what it’s saying,” he said.

The Jan. 13 demonstration was organized by a coalition of 30 family groups. Organizers said 800,000 people participated, although French police put the number at 340,000. Monsignor Podvin said the Church believed homosexuals “must be respected,” but was against the samesex bill, which was introduced in November.

“In our eyes, there’s nothing contradictory between fighting firmly against homophobia and saying no to a radical transformation of the family model,” Monsignor Podvin said.

25

Aid workers: Icy temps mean Syrian refugees in greater need AMMAN, Jordan — Snow, driving rain and howling winds in early January compounded the already desperate situation for Syrians caught up in 22 months of civil war seeking to oust President Bashar Assad. Now, the extremely frigid temperatures have put both those internally displaced inside Syria and refugees fleeing to neighboring countries in even greater danger. Aid workers in Jordan, Turkey and Lebanon say they are stretched to the limit because they need additional funds to provide food supplies and other basic necessities to the refugees in such freezing weather. The United Nations said Jan. 11 that the new enemy for about 600,000 Syrian refugees who escaped to these countries is the bitter winter.

Archbishop involved in peace deal for Central African Republic BANGUI, Central African Republic — One of the country’s leading Catholics helped mediate between the Seleka rebel alliance and government leaders, resulting in a peace agreement to end fighting that left a Catholic journalist dead. Father Dieu-Beni Mbanga, chancellor of the Archdiocese of Bangui, confirmed that Archbishop Dieudonne Nzapalainga represented civil society and helped mediate at the talks in Libreville, Gabon.

The two sides announced a peace agreement and plans for a unity government Jan. 11.

The rebel alliance, which had hoped to overthrow the government of President Francois Bozize, began its drive in the North Dec. 10 and captured about a dozen towns.

During the occupation of the city of Bambari, rebels looted a diocesan-run radio station and killed journalist Elisabeth Blanche Ologio.

— Catholic News Service

Tour of Egypt and Kenya March 8-22, 2013 Cairo – Aswan – Giza – Memphis Luxor – Nairobi – Maasai Mara

African American Ministry Diocese of Charlotte

For more information please contact: Sandy Murdock 704-370-3267 at the African American Ministry Office -orinfo@palacetravel.com 215-471-8555 Toll Free 800-683-7731

ViewPoints 26

catholicnewsherald.com | January 18, 2013 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Letters to the editor

Follow the Gospel, and ‘be kind and merciful’ Deacon James H. Toner

Try the Latin Mass, the Church’s ancient treasure

H

ave you noticed the growing popularity of the “timeless liturgy”?

The Tridentine Mass or Council of Trent (1545-1563) Mass; the Mass of Pope St. Pius V, which he standardized in 1570, saying in “Quo Primum” that this Mass would be celebrated “now and forever”; the ancient liturgy of the Church – this is the Latin Mass. It is one of two approved forms of the Mass for Roman Catholics: the Latin Mass is also called the “Extraordinary Form” (EF), and the Novus Ordo or Mass of Pope Paul VI, which most of us are familiar with today, is known as the “Ordinary Form” (OF).

I grew up with the Latin Mass, having served for 10 years as an altar boy, and I love that liturgy. But I have known the OF since I was in college, and celebrated properly (see CCC 1125) it too is a beautiful Mass. Pope Benedict XVI has expressed the fond hope that the two forms of the Mass will be mutually nourishing, something that we saw in late 2011 when a few changes (such as “through my fault” and striking our breast) were introduced into the OF; many of these came from the EF. The two forms are not rivals, although there are some striking differences between them – aside from the EF’s use of Latin, the Church’s universal language, and the OF’s use of the vernacular. The EF has one Eucharistic Prayer, whereas the OF has six. The EF has a one-year cycle of readings; the OF has a three-year cycle. The EF uses a somewhat different “calendar.” For example: in the EF, Sunday, Jan. 27, is Septuagesima Sunday (the ninth Sunday before Easter), the priest wears violet, and the Gospel is from Matthew. In the OF, that same day is the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time, the priest wears green, and the Gospel is from Luke. In the EF, the priest or deacon distributes the Eucharist to communicants who kneel at the altar rail, receiving Our Lord on the tongue, while the priest or deacon says (in Latin): “May the Body of Our Lord Jesus Christ preserve your soul unto life everlasting.

Amen.” The communicant does not say “Amen.” In the OF, ministers distribute the Eucharist to communicants who may receive standing or kneeling, on the tongue or in the hand. The minister says, “The Body of Christ,” and the communicant says, “Amen.” In the EF, the priest wears a different type of chasuble (outer garment) with a maniple (reminiscent of a handkerchief) on his left arm; in the OF, the priest also wears a chasuble but not a maniple. The EF has a “last Gospel” at the end of Mass, taken from John 1:1-14 (read this prayerfully and you will see why it is part of nearly every EF Mass).

In the EF, during a Low Mass (no music) or a High Mass (with music usually from a “schola,” or choir), there is one priest.

With the kind permission of my pastor, I as a deacon have the sacred privilege of preaching at the EF, as well reading the Epistle, proclaiming the Gospel and distributing Communion. Only very rarely will other priests concelebrate the EF Mass. The deacon and other ministers are routinely involved in the OF, and priestly concelebration of the Mass is permitted and more frequent.

There are, sadly, many misunderstandings or objections with the Latin Mass. Here are a few: 1. The EF is an effort to turn back the clock and undermine Vatican II. No! Both Blessed John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI have strongly endorsed wider use of the EF, and Vatican II in no way forbade the use of Latin, or Gregorian chant, or the ancient liturgy.

2. In the EF, the priest turns his back on the people. No! Customarily, the priest faces east (see Malachi 1:11), for that is where we look, expecting Christ’s return.

In the OF Mass, the priest may also face “ad orientem.” In the EF, the priest faces the altar and tabernacle together with the people, for whom and with whom he offers the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. He is not being rude.

3. In the EF, the people just watch the priest. No! This misunderstands how we assist at Mass. We assist at Mass by reverently uniting our prayers, found in the missal, to those of the priest at the altar, joining in the Holy Sacrifice with and through Christ.

4. The EF Mass is too routine. No! There is a beautiful regularity to the EF Mass, but each Mass also has its “propers” (prayers or readings unique to the day’s Mass, such as the Gospel or the Communion Antiphon). Usually, the propers are available in the missal provided by the church.

Interest in the Latin Mass is growing, and it is not just a matter of nostalgia. It is being rediscovered, especially by the younger generation of priests and laity, and it will also have a great influence on the general reverence and respect for divine worship in parish life. All of us should become familiar with it and not dismiss it out of hand. The Latin Mass is a beautiful treasure, a profound and lasting part of our Catholic identity.

To learn more, consider reading Thomas Woods Jr.’s “Sacred Then and Sacred Now” or Monsignor George Moorman’s “The Latin Mass Explained.” Please also consider assisting two or three times at a Latin Mass near you. You will become increasingly at home. Deo gratias!

Deacon James H. Toner serves at Our Lady of Grace Church in Greensboro.

“On Kindness,” the Jan. 4 column written by Deacon James Toner, echoes my past experience in pastoral ministry as director of religious education at St. Agnes Cathedral Parish in Springfield, Mo. When registering children for the parish’s religion classes, I never asked for baptismal certificates because I knew some children would be registered who were not baptized. I didn’t want to embarrass the parents or limit participation to those already baptized, so I simply asked in the registration form for sacraments received. Then I followed up with individual phone calls to the parents whose children were not baptized and asked them to come in for a private conversation. When they came in for the private meeting, I encouraged them to share their personal faith journey with me. I would then follow up with instructions about baptism. I never criticized the parents, instead welcoming them into a deeper involvement in the life of the Church. Many of these adults began to come to adult education sessions and then became active members of the parish. I am convinced this approach led to a deeper faith life than criticism would have.

Jesus went to the house of Zacchaeus while Zacchaeus was still a sinner.

(Luke 19: 1-10). St. Francis of Assisi said, “Preach the Gospel always; if necessary use words.” St. Francis even fed the robbers in the forest. Our actions must be congruent with our words, so “be kind and merciful.” (Eph. 4:32).

Sister Rose Marie Tresp serves as the director of justice for the Sisters of Mercy’s South Central Community in Belmont.

Bishops’ gun control advocacy misses the mark I was saddened to see the loss of an opportunity in our U.S. Conference of Catholics Bishops’ response to the evil that occurred in Sandy Hook, Conn. Our bishops have taken the opportunity to call for tighter gun control and better access to mental health in the wake of the shooting. Nowhere in the response do the bishops call for a return to leading prayerful, contemplative lives under God. Nowhere do they raise the issue of the assault currently being undertaken by our own federal government on our rights to practice our faith without constraint. Gun control and regulation has its place, but I would argue that gun control will fail when our citizens have no strong advocate and shepherd to guide us back to the very definition of goodness: Christ Himself.

James Stevens lives in Morganton.

Moral decline, lack of respect are to blame In the U.S. bishops’ statement in response to the tragedy in Sandy Hook, many ideas were offered which may help

reduce gun violence, but perhaps there is also a lack of morality and respect for life in our current culture. I think the Church could set a new tone and lead the way by bringing back the solemnity of the Mass. If one can offer the sign of peace and carry on a conversation, text, wear inappropriate clothing and treat Mass as if it were a social occasion, one demonstrates a lack of respect for the Blessed Sacrament and for other churchgoers there to worship. Years ago when walking by a Catholic church, men would remove their hats and women would genuflect. It is sad how far we have strayed.

Betty Coniglio lives in Charlotte.

War is just as important a life issue I find it disheartening that in all the coverage given to life issues in the Jan. 4 edition of the Catholic News Herald, there was no mention of war. We have become so accustomed to supporting war with our dollars and military hero worship that we fail to recognize war is killing – just as abortion, euthanasia and suicide are. Yes, we sometimes regret that there are innocent victims of our warmongering, disguised as “collateral damage,” but we still continue to justify taking lives in war.

Are there really any victims of war who are not innocent? Are military personnel ordered to kill or be killed not also innocent victims, as are the children being killed almost daily by our drone strikes? I daresay we are more concerned with supporting the size of the military budget than with our unquestioning support of our war killings. And killing our perceived enemies is glorified daily in our news media.

If we are really serious about having respect for life, then we need to get serious about the war issue. Start by including war in your articles about pro-life activities, explaining that war is killing, not “peace keeping” or the other sanitized terms we like to use as justification. Encourage people to take to the streets to protest war as you encourage them to protest abortion. How can we be so silent about war when it is taking so much of our resources and so many lives?

Kenneth Schammel lives in Cornelius.

Letters policy The Catholic News Herald welcomes letters from readers. We ask that letters be originals of 250 words or fewer, pertain to recent newspaper content or Catholic issues, and be in good taste.

To be considered for publication, each letter must include the name, address and daytime phone number of the writer for purpose of verification. Letters may be condensed due to space limitations and edited for clarity, style and factual accuracy.

Mail: Letters to the Editor Catholic News Herald 1123 S. Church St. Charlotte, N.C. 28203 E-mail: catholicnews@charlottediocese.org

January 18, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

27

New Year’s resolutions: Think again Peggy Bowes

New Year’s resolutions and the fourth luminous mystery “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:12)

I

t’s such a cliché, the New Years’ resolution list. Each year we are programmed to begin anew by making a list to correct our various shortcomings. We set goals to be more organized, save more money or get in shape. We are filled with hope, yet statistics show that the resolutions will likely be abandoned and forgotten before the annual Super Bowl game.

Perhaps we should resolve instead to simply practice virtue by turning to the 20 mysteries of the rosary for inspiration. Each mystery contains a fruit or virtue that shines forth. For instance, the Annunciation shows the virtue of humility. The Visitation exemplifies love of neighbor, and so on. Frequent rosary prayer and meditation help us to practice these virtues.

Perhaps the rosary mystery that best fits our drive to make New Year’s resolutions is the fourth luminous mystery: the Transfiguration. When Blessed John Paul II instituted the mysteries of light, or the luminous mysteries, he put an emphasis on the fourth mystery: “The mystery of light par excellence is the Transfiguration… The glory of the Godhead shines forth from the face of Christ as the Father commands the astonished Apostles to “listen to Him” (cf. Lk 9:35 and parallels) and to prepare to experience with Him the agony of the Passion, so as to come with Him to the joy of the Resurrection and a life transfigured by the Holy Spirit.” (Apostolic Letter “Rosarium Virginis Mariae”) We can transfigure our own lives by embodying the virtue of this mystery: to become a new person in Christ. The key words here are in Christ, for “…with God all things are possible.” (Matt 19:26) Yet how do we begin this transformation?

Clearly we must heed the advice from heaven and listen to Jesus, who will guide us on our own journey of transformation. It is important to pray, but we must also take time to place ourselves in Jesus’ Presence and simply listen. Throughout the day, be receptive to His gentle but firm guidance. With practice, you will soon learn the little clues that tell you if you are on the right or wrong path. Regular rosary prayer will also help us to convert our lives. Study and meditate on the 20 mysteries of the rosary, for they are our guide to practicing heroic virtue.

It is also important to note that like Jesus, we must suffer. We cannot begin anew unless we learn to patiently bear our own crosses with humility. By accepting and offering up our suffering, we receive grace, practice virtue and become more Christ-like.

This year, throw away that list of resolutions and simply decide to become a new person in Christ.

Peggy Bowes is a member of Holy Angels Church in Mount Airy and author of “The Rosary Workout” (www.rosaryworkout.com).

Most-read stories on the web Through press time on Jan. 16, 3,406 visitors to www.catholicnewsherald.com have viewed a total of 9,481 pages. The top 10 headlines in January so far are:

Ryan Murray

Rico De Silva

The year of living thankfully “It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation, always and everywhere to give you thanks, Father most holy...” (from the beginning of Eucharistic Prayer II) anuary is almost over, and by this time last year most of my New Year’s resolutions had gone by the wayside. This is year I made just one resolution: to be thankful on a daily basis. This year I’m sticking with it. So far, so good. Thank you very much!

St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits and one of the greatest saints in Church history, said one of the worst sins we can commit against God is ingratitude.

As contemporary society becomes increasingly more secular, we have become colder towards the Gospel mandate to love God and neighbor. Our collected sense of entitlement has crept quietly into our spiritual lives like a cancer. More often than not, we take God and His grace for granted. We also take people, especially our loved ones, for granted.

We take God’s bounty for granted when we don’t stop to say grace before meals in public because we don’t want people to look at us funny. We take Jesus’ Real Presence in the Eucharist for granted when we receive Him and leave Mass immediately after Communion because we can’t spare five minutes just to say thank you to Our Lord. We take His priests for granted when we don’t thank our parish priest for celebrating Mass after the Sunday Liturgy.

On a personal level, a couple of incidents happened to me last month that prompted me to reflect on this subject. First, my wife had to leave town for a week to care for a sick relative. During that time, I had to walk in her shoes and be Mr. Mom to our 7-yearold daughter. I had to get up an hour earlier to pack the little one’s lunch and make her breakfast before school, had to make sure her clothes and backpack were ready the night before, had to cook for her and take her to ballet class, etc. It sounds simple until you have to do it. Every day.

I was very thankful when my wife came back, and I let her know it.

Thanks again, honey!

Right before Christmas, I also got word that a former co-worker of mine had passed away suddenly of a heart attack. During my stint as a car salesman a couple years ago, this man really took a liking to me, took me under his wing and showed me everything I needed to know. Unfortunately, I lost contact with him when I left the dealership. I was sad because I really valued his friendship, but I never took the time to thank him properly for all he did for me.

Let’s always be mindful that everything in our lives is a gift from God, and our journey through life could end at any given moment. The two simple words “thank you” are extremely meaningful in our relationship with God and with one another. So I resolve not only for 2013, but for the rest of my life, to live more thankfully.

J

Rico De Silva is a member of St. Gabriel Church in Charlotte.

n Hundreds walk in Charlotte March for Life............................................987

W

A few wishes and resolutions

e recently celebrated another New Year, and this month a certain columnist also celebrates his birthday. That columnist usually takes some time each year around his birthday to think about what he would like to accomplish in the upcoming year from a spiritual perspective. He likes to add about 20 extra days before coming up with any concrete New Year’s resolutions – just in case he didn’t quite get to finish his New Year’s resolutions from last year. (At least that’s what I tell myself.)

First and foremost for my birthday, I’d like a deeper relationship with Christ. Isn’t that what we all want? The best part about asking for this as a gift is that He gives us that chance every day. We just have to accept it from Him. Sometimes that can be difficult for us in this life, for so many reasons.

One of those reasons could be that we are not patient. I struggle with impatience – I feel as if I need everything to happen right now the way I want it. However, what we want may not be His plan for us, and His plan is perfect. This year, I’m asking for a bit more patience – and to understand that I am not in control, He is. I ask to be able to do a better job of letting go and letting God. This means in the little, everyday things as well as the big things.

That brings me to my second birthday request. I ask to let things be done according to God’s will, not mine. The pastor of my church, Monsignor Anthony Marcaccio, recently described in his homily a great prayer: Let things be done according to God’s will – nothing more, nothing less and nothing else. Basically, don’t try to do more than what God is asking you, but don’t try taking the easy way out just to say that you did something. The “nothing else” part? Well, I think that pretty much speaks for itself.

Accepting God’s will involves each of our senses, particularly listening and seeing. As I move along into another year, I’d like to do a better job of listening to Jesus when He is talking to me, either directly or through others, and to take action on that in all aspects of my life.

Similarly, I would like to focus better on seeing the face of Jesus in others as well as doing those things where people can see Jesus working in me.

Many times in this column, I talk about my family. On my birthday, I ask God to help me be a better spouse to my wife, for me to bring out the best in her, for her to do the same with me and for each of us to help each other get to Heaven one day with God’s grace. As for my children, my hope is that the Lord helps me see the world as they see it: with wonder, awe and love.

There is one final thing I’d like to ask for my birthday.

My wish is that each of you seek Christ in your everyday lives. Although at times it can be difficult because of our flaws, my birthday wish is that each of you remembers that He is always right beside you and His gift of a deeper relationship with Him is the best present anyone can ever have.

Ryan Murray is a member of St. Pius X Church in Greensboro. Have an idea or comment? E-mail him at murrayrj18@hotmail.com. You can also follow Murray on his blog at nobonzaboutit-ryan.blogspot.com.

n Belmont pastor posts homilies online, on Twitter to evangelize........ 60

n Break-in reported at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Charlotte .......425

n St. Matthew Parish restricts Communion during flu season................55

n Belmont Abbey students use digital media to promote Latin Mass...150

n Local Catholic author inspires young readers with stories of faith....53

n Greensboro pastor named VP at Pontifical College Josephinum .....97

n Embracing the Cross in 2012..........................................................................51

n A new year: Q&A with Bishop Peter Jugis................................................ 77

n Bishop Jugis dedicates Good Shepherd Gardens................................... 50

28

catholicnewsherald.com | January 18, 2013 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

GROWING IN FAITH AND THEOLOGY

A collaborative adult religious education program sponsored by: St. Gabriel Church St. John Neumann Church St. Luke Church Winter Semester 2013 A. Thomas Merton: Soul of the Age Mark Bartholet, MA Tuesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 7 to 8:30 p.m.

St. Matthew Church, New Life Center

Thomas Merton was one of the most significant Christian figures in twentieth-century America and is celebrated as a modern spiritual master. His story and writings continue to fascinate us because they mirror our own spiritual journeys in the post-modern world.

Throughout these four sessions, we will reflect on the life and teachings of Merton, gleaning wisdom along the way. During this journey, we will explore Merton’s heartfelt religious piety, thoughts on contemplation, passion for justice, and exploration of Eastern spiritualties. From his flight to the monastic life and, later, his deep embrace and love of modern humanity, Merton’s ongoing conversion to love in a uniquely post-modern way will provide us a fitting lens for examining our own spiritual journeys in the 21st century.

B. One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism: The Challenging Road to Christian Unity Sr. Jane Russell, OSF, Ph.D.

GIFT Faculty Susan Brady earned a MA in Biblical Studies from Providence College. For over 40 years she has taught the Bible to audiences of various configurations, given days of prayer, parish retreats and talks on biblical subjects.

Tuesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 7 to 8:30 p.m.

St. John Neumann Church

The Second Vatican Council, in its Decree on Ecumenism, exhorted “all the Catholic faithful to recognize the signs of the times and to take an active and intelligent part in the work of ecumenism.” After the Council there was an explosion of dialogue efforts, from grass-roots to international, aimed at helping to break down the walls between Catholics and other Christians, our “separated brethren.” While ecumenical progress sometimes “risks coming to a standstill in the face of human limitations” (Cardinal Kasper), much has been accomplished already, and we can hope and pray for much greater convergence ahead. This mini-course will review the past and try to discern the future of the movement for Christian unity.

C. The 4-1-1 on Vatican II Susan Krasniewski, MA Thursdays, February 7, 14, 21, 28 7 to 8:30 p.m.

St. Gabriel Ministry Center

The Second Vatican Council is the most profound event in the modern era of the Roman Catholic Church. Opened by Pope John XXIII in October 1962 and closed

by Pope Paul VI in December 1965,

St. Mark Church St. Matthew Church St. Peter Church

the Council produced 16 major documents. Touching virtually every aspect of the Church’s life, these documents are a wellspring of renewal for the Church in the modern world. In recognition of the 50th anniversary of the opening of Vatican II, this course provides insight into the who, what, when, and why of the Second Vatican Council and what Vatican II means for us today.

D. How the 16th Century Changed our Lives: Yesterday’s Renaissance and Tomorrow’s Revival David Galusha, MRE Wednesdays, Feb. 6, 20, 27 7 to 9 p.m.

St. Matthew Church

The course will include the basic theories of socio-religious development, the main events and people of the 16th century in art, science, and religion, and their impact on the Catholic Church. There will be presentations of the theology and sociology of the main branches of Protestantism. Finally, there will be an opportunity for a comparison between the 16th century and the modern Church’s challenges.

E. A Book That Changed the World: EXODUS Susan Brady, MA

Mark Bartholet earned a MA in Theology and Religious Studies from John Carroll University and has taught both theology and mathematics at the college level.

David Galusha, MRE. has been an adjunct professor of Philosophy and Theology for the College of St. Elizabeth. He currently writes for Oblate Media and other Catholic publishers.

Alice Camille is a Catholic writer, religious educator and evangelist. She received her master of divinity from the Franciscan School of Theology in Berkeley.

Susan Krasniewski is Director of Faith Formation and Adult Education at St. Gabriel Catholic Church. She holds a master’s degree in English from Bradley University and a master’s degree in

Registration Please fill out one form for each participant.

Detach and enclose the $30 per-person, $20 for Catholic school teachers, faith formation catechists and youth ministry personnel per-course fee and return to

Queen of the Apostle Church Our Lady of Consolation Church

Tuesday Mornings: Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 10 to 11:30 A.M. St. Matthew Church, New Life Center

And is still changing our world! On many college campuses this book is studied in a course entitled, “Forty Books That Shaped Our World”. According Exodus even more honor than that, we shall look at it from a religious perspective, dwelling on how it reveals our God, what He is really like and what he really requires of us, and most importantly, what He really wishes to give us. So, bring your Bibles and your red pens and your running shoes. We are going on an exciting trip.

Scripture Study Day March 9, 2013

Alice Camille M.Div. Nationally known author, religious educator and retreat leader

F. Finding Our Place In the Story of Faith St. Matthew Catholic Church 9:15 am - 3:30 pm in the New Life Center

The Bible is not only the story of salvation history. It is also our guide to salvation present. We read our great story of faith not just to learn what God said or what Jesus pastoral studies from Loyola University New Orleans.

Sister Mary Hugh Mauldin, MA is a Sister of Mercy in Belmont, has graduate degrees in mathematics (N.C. State U.) and theology (St. Bonaventure U.), as well as a graduate certificate in liturgy (St. Joseph College), and has taught at all levels.

did, but also to embrace our own identity as the people of God. Four talks will be offered throughout the day: “Saved By the Story” “God’s Story and Your Story” “A Woman’s Place Is in the Story: The Legacy of Biblical Women” “Ten Things You Gotta Know About the Bible” Participants need to bring a bible.

Lunch is provided.

G. Sacraments: The Church’s Community Prayer Sr. Mary Hugh Mauldin, RSM Thursdays, Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28 7 to 8:30 p.m.

St. Luke Church

This “Year of Faith”, this call to renewal in the Church, is a good time to think again about the Church’s communal, ritual expression of worship. The course will use Vatican II’s Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy and the Roman Missal.

Four sessions: Symbol, Sacrament, Liturgy The Sacraments of Initiation The Sacraments of Vocation and Healing The Sacrament of Eucharist This course is great for parents, catechists, liturgical ministers and the average person in the pew who needs an update on Sacramental Theology.

Sister Jane Russell, OSF, Ph.D., is Associate Professor of Theology at Belmont Abbey College, where she teaches a wide range of scripture and theology courses. She has served on the NC Lutheran/Catholic Covenant Committee and on the board of the Ecumenical Institute of the Carolinas.

El Padre Gabriel Carvajal-Salazarlse graduó en un Instituto de Teología para Seglares en

CURSO EN ESPAÑOL H. Católico: Conoce y Practica Tu Fe Padre Gabriel Carvajal- Salazar Lunes 4,11,18, 25 De Febrero a las 7:00pm Iglesia San Marco, Huntersville, NC

Es muy importante hoy en día que cada católico, aparte de haber nacido en una familia católica, esté convencido personalmente de su fe. Esto debido a que vivimos en una sociedad pluralista en la cual el católico sin preparación alguna queda a la deriva ante la cruzada que están haciendo los Nuevos Movimientos Religiosos.

Ven y únete a nosotros en estas cuatro clases de formación de fe, donde conversaremos cómo orar y adorar a Dios, aprenderemos más sobre los siete sacramentos, el credo, nuestra devoción a la Santísima Virgen María y los santos.

Esta formación se desarrolla dentro de un marco de respeto, colaboración y respuesta a los interrogantes que se presentan al católico de hoy. Todos son bienvenidos.

Veracruz, México. Estuvo como misionero laico en varias Diócesis mexicanas, Belice y Guatemala. Ha compuesto temas musicales en la línea de la apologética (Defensa de la fe). En el 2002 entró al Seminario por parte de la Diócesis de Charlotte y fue ordenado sacerdote el 5 de Junio del 2010. Actualmente funge como vicario en la parroquia de San Luis Gonzaga en Hickory. Our Lady of Consolation Church

Course Selection one of the eight GIFT sponsoring parishes.

Please make checks payable to GIFT C/O St. Matthew Church. Fees are non-refundable after Feb. 4. (Please print clearly)

Name

Since Courses C and G are both offered on Thursday evenings, you may sign up for only one of these classes.

Courses A and B are Tuesday evenings, you may sign up for only one of these.

A._____ (Tuesday Evenings)

D._____ (Wednesday Evenings)

G._____ (Thursday Evenings)

B._____ (Tuesday Evenings)

E._____ (Tuesday Mornings)

H._____ (Monday Evenings)*

C._____ (Thursday Evenings)

F. _____ (Saturday, March 9, 9:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.)

Street City Zip

*No charge: Course H is an outreach to the Hispanic community. Completing and sending in a registration is required.

For direction to course locations : St. Matthew Catholic Church 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy., Charlotte, NC www.stmatthewcatholic.org

Phone Email Parish Return form and check to any Gift sponsoring parish office.

St. Gabriel Catholic Church 3016 Providence Road Charlotte, NC www.stgabrielchurch.org

St. John Neumann Catholic Church 8451 Idlewild Road, Charlotte, NC www.4sjnc.org St. Luke Catholic Church 13700 Lawyers Rd., Mint Hill NC www.stlukechurch.net

St. Mark Catholic Church 14740 Stumptown Road Huntersville, NC www.stmarknc.org