Nov. 8, 2013

November 8, 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

Room at the Inn unveils new name ‘MiraVia’ during annual banquet,

Laying cornerstones Our Lady of Grace Parish breaks ground for new school, 16

5

INDEX Contact us.......................... 4 Events calendar................. 4 Our Parishes................. 4-13 Schools.........................16-20 Scripture readings............ 3 TV & Movies.......................21 U.S. news..................... 22-23 Viewpoints.................. 26-28 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!

‘Biking for life’ across N.C. Sisters of Mercy Urgent Care team raises more than $20k for Haiti mission,

7

ESPAÑOL Sacerdote carismático amigo del Papa visita Charlotte, 14

Football standout Hood eyes last days at Charlotte Catholic before early graduation, 17

2

Year of faith

catholicnewsherald.com | November 8, 2013 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Pope Francis

Young and old join Pope Francis to celebrate joy of family life Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service

Share burdens in prayer, acts of love Saying, “don’t worry, we aren’t taking up a collection,” Pope Francis asked people at his weekly general audience to perform an act of charity by praying for a seriously ill 18-month-old girl named Noemi. Being part of the Church means sharing “spiritual goods – the sacraments, charisms and charity” – including by helping someone or praying for those in need, he said Nov. 6 at his weekly general audience.

Returning to the theme of “the communion of saints,” which he spoke about at his audience Oct. 30, Pope Francis said it not only refers to the bond existing between Church members living and dead, but also refers to the bond of unity and sharing that should mark the life of Christians on earth.

The pope told the estimated 50,000 people in St. Peter’s Square that before the audience, he had met Noemi and her parents. Despite her illness, “she smiled,” he said.

“Let’s perform an act of love. We don’t know her, but she’s been baptized – she’s one of us, a Christian,” he said, leading the crowd in a moment of silence and then the recitation of the Hail Mary.

Passionist Father Ciro Benedettini, assistant director of the Vatican press office, told reporters the pope had met the baby and her parents at his residence.

Vatican Radio interviewed her father, Andrea Sciarretta, who said his daughter has spinal muscular atrophy. The family, he said, was invited by the pope to visit the Vatican, pray with him, spend the night and share their meals with him.

Sciarretta and his wife have been in the news in Italy because of their efforts to persuade doctors to allow Noemi to be treated with a new, largely untested and unapproved stem-cell treatment.

Solidarity in action and in prayer is an “integral part of communion among Christians,” the pope said in his audience talk. “If we live this, we are sacraments of God’s love in the world.”

The sacraments, he said, are not simply rituals. Jesus is present in them and the Holy Spirit pours out grace through them, “increasing in us a strong and joyful faith, a faith able to marvel at the wonders of God and to resist the idols of this world.”

“This is why it is important to receive Communion, to baptize babies early, to get confirmed,” he said. The sacraments increase “the presence of Christ in us, which helps us.”

“It is important, when we know we’ve sinned, to go to the sacrament of reconciliation,” he said, adding that he knows some people are afraid of the priest’s reaction. “He won’t wallop you.”

“In the sacrament, you will encounter Jesus, Jesus who will forgive you. Jesus is waiting for you there.”

CNS | L’Osservatore Romano via Reuters

Pope Francis touches the head of a child as he addresses pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican Oct. 26.

He addressed an estimated 100,000 people taking part in a Year of Faith celebration of family life.

VATICAN CITY — A Catholic wedding is not simply a beautiful ceremony; through the sacrament of marriage a couple receives from God the grace they will need to fulfill their mission in the world, Pope Francis said.

Addressing an estimated 100,000 people who came St. Peter’s Square Oct. 26 for a Year of Faith celebration of family life, Pope Francis said Catholic spouses are not naïve; they know difficult moments will come.

But vowing to love one another in sickness and health, joy and sorrow all the days of their lives, Catholic couples put their lives in the hands of God and rely on Him for strength.

“They do not run away; they do not hide; they do not shirk the mission of forming a family and bringing children into the world,” the pope said.

For hours before the pope arrived, singers and storytellers took the stage in St. Peter’s Square, recounting the greatness of love and family life and the importance of forgiveness.

Volunteers went through the crowd handing out red, green, orange, yellow, blue and violet balloons. Despite the master of ceremonies’ plea to hang on to the helium-filled balloons until everyone was told to release them, throughout the evening balloons dotted the skies over St. Peter’s Square.

Pope Francis, who was given a balloon in the atrium of St. Peter’s Basilica, entertained the little ones who were to escort him to the stage by letting his go, too.

The evening’s formal program began with a little girl identified only as Federica showing the pope a drawing she made of her mother teaching her to cook cutlets.

She said it is her favorite food and “I could eat them for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snack time.”

Federica said her mom also taught her to make the Sign of the Cross, and Pope Francis asked all the children, if they knew how, to join him in beginning their encounter “in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.”

Dozens of people – from children to grandparents – were invited to speak to the pope and the crowd, sharing the story of their family lives.

Wassim and Karol Maqdissi, a couple from Syria, talked about fleeing their home and finding refuge in Jordan. The people gathered in the square offered special prayers for peace in Syria and offered money to help Caritas care for the victims of the war.

Other stories came from residents of Lampedusa, the island off Italy’s southern coast, and from two African migrants who made dangerous sea crossings to get to the island.

In his talk at the gathering, Pope Francis said that at the heart of everyone’s vocation is the call to love and be loved.

FAMILY, SEE page 3

November 8, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

FAMILY: FROM PAGE 2

“Life is often wearisome. Work is tiring. Looking for work is exhausting,” he said. “But what is most burdensome in life is a lack of love.”

Pope Francis said he knows many families are struggling financially and emotionally, others are threatened by war or split apart by migration, and many young people would like to marry but they don’t see how they can without a home and good job.

“The Lord knows our struggles and the burdens we have in our lives,” he said. “But He also knows our great desire to find joy and rest.”

Through the sacrament of marriage, a couple receives the grace they need, he said: “The sacraments are not decorations in life; the sacrament of marriage is not just a pretty ceremony.

Christians celebrate the sacrament of marriage because they know they need it.”

Pope Francis urged Catholic couples to go against the cultural trend of seeing everything, including relationships, as fleeting.

Marriage is a life-long journey, he said, “a long journey, not little pieces.”

Family life is filled with beautiful moments like shared meals, walks in the park and visits to the grandparents, Pope Francis said. “But if love is missing, joy is missing; nothing is fun.”

For families, as for all Christians, he said, Jesus is the source of endless love. Couples, he said, must pray together “because they need to for the long journey they are making together.”

Pope Francis also told the crowd that three phrases are essential for a peaceful family life: “’May I?’ to make sure you aren’t being intrusive, ‘Thank you’ and ‘I’m sorry.’”

The next morning, Pope Francis was back in St. Peter’s Square celebrating Mass with the families. And, again, he spoke of the importance of praying as a family.

He said he knew many of them were thinking that it sounds like a nice thing to do, but they can’t imagine finding the time.

“We need simplicity to pray as a family,” he said. “Praying the Our Father together around the table is not something extraordinary; it’s easy. Praying the rosary together, as a family, is very beautiful and a source of great strength.”

Through family prayer, going to Mass together and even the simple task of teaching children to make the Sign of the Cross, he said, the family also is the place where the Christian faith is kept alive and passed on.

The faith, he said, is not “a personal treasure like a bank account” or something to be kept “in a strong box,” he said. A faith that is not shared with others might as well be “embalmed,” he added.

‘The sacraments are not decorations in life; the sacrament of marriage is not just a pretty ceremony. Christians celebrate the sacrament of marriage because they know they need it.’

woman, he said.

“Spousal and familial love clearly reveal that the vocation of the human person is to love one other person forever and that the trials, sacrifices and crises in the life of the couple or the family are stages for growth in goodness, truth and beauty,” he said.

As he has done on several occasions, Pope Francis also spoke about the special place in the family reserved for children and for the elderly, family members who are “the most vulnerable and often the most forgotten.”

“Any time a child is abandoned or an older person marginalized, it is not only an act of injustice, but marks the failure of that society,” he said. “Taking care of little ones and of the elderly is a mark of civility.”

Pope Francis, departing from his prepared text, told members of the council, “When I hear the confession of a young married man or woman, and they refer to their son or daughter, I ask, ‘How many children do you have?’ and they tell me. Maybe they’re expecting another question after that, but I always ask, ‘And tell me, do you play with your children? Do you waste time with your children?’”

“The free gift of a parent’s time is so important,” he said.

Your daily Scripture readings NOV. 10-16

Sunday: 2 Maccabees 7:1-2, 9-14, 2 Thessalonians 2:16-3:5, Luke 20:27-38; Monday (St. Martin of Tours): Wisdom 1:1-7, Luke 17:1-6; Tuesday (St. Josaphat): Wisdom 2:23-3:9, Luke 17:7-10; Wednesday (St. Frances Xavier Cabrini): Wisdom 6:1-11, Luke 17:11-19; Thursday: Wisdom 7:22-8:1, Luke 17:20-25; Friday (St. Albert the Great): Wisdom 13:1-9, Luke 17:26-37; Saturday (St. Margaret of Scotland, St. Gertrude): Wisdom 18:14-16, 19:6-9, Luke 18:1-8

NOV. 17-23

Sunday: Malachi 3:19-20, 2 Thessalonians 3:7-12, Luke 21:5-19; Monday (Dedication of the Basilicas of Sts. Peter and Paul, St. Rose Philippine Duchesne): 1 Maccabees 1:10-15, 4143, 54-57, 62-63, Luke 18:35-43; Tuesday: 2 Maccabees 6:18-31, Luke 19:1-10; Wednesday: 2 Maccabees 7:1, 20-31, Luke 19:11-28; Thursday (Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary): 1 Maccabees 2:15-29, Luke 19:41-44; Friday (St. Cecilia): 1 Maccabees 4:36-37, 52-59, 1 Chronicles 29:10-12, Luke 19:45-48; Saturday (St. Clement I, St. Columban, BI. Miguel Agustin Pro): 1 Maccabees 6:1-13, Luke 20:2740

www.annusfidei.va The official Vatican site for the Year of Faith, this is a must-see 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” – catechetical talks by Pope Benedict on the Apostles and saints, the Church Fathers, leading Catholic women, medieval theologians, and prayer

www.usccb.org At the U.S. bishops’ website, check out a video series on the Year of Faith, download Catholic prayers and catechetical resources for free, and more.

‘My Year of Faith’ app An app with daily content updates to help you to a deeper understanding of Catholicism, an increased prayer life, and reflections and thoughts from nationally known Catholic bloggers, writers and speakers – including blogger Lisa Hendey of CatholicMom.com. Produced by the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend, the app is available for iOS (iPhones, iPads) and Android (smartphones, Kindle Fire) for 99 cents. Don’t have a smartphone? Follow the companion blog at www. myyearoffaith.com.

A 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.

Marriage isn’t easy, but it’s beautiful, pope says VATICAN CITY — The Catholic Church must help young people understand that marriage isn’t always easy, “but it is so beautiful,” Pope Francis said.

“There are problems in marriage: different points of view, jealousies, arguments, but tell young couples to never let the day end without making peace. The sacrament of matrimony is renewed in this act of peace,” the pope said Oct. 25 during a meeting with members of the Pontifical Council for the Family.

“This path is not easy, but it is so beautiful,” the pope said.

“It’s beautiful. Tell them that.”

For the Catholic Church, he said, a family isn’t simply a group of individuals, but it is a community where people learn to love one another, share with and make sacrifices for each other and “defend life, especially of those who are more fragile and weak.”

The family as a special community must “be recognized as such, especially today when so much emphasis is placed on the safeguarding of individual rights,” he said. “We must defend the rights of this community that is the family.”

Defending the family also means defending the basic fact that it is a community founded on the marriage of a man and a

Online resources for your Year of Faith

www.vcat.org

Pope Francis

Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service

3

NOV. 24-30

Sunday (Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe): 2 Samuel 5:1-3, Colossians 1:1220, Luke 23:35-43; Monday (St. Catherine of Alexandria): Daniel 1:1-6, 8-20, Daniel 3:52-56, Luke 21:1-4; Tuesday: Daniel 2:3145, Daniel 3:57-61, Luke 21:5-11; Wednesday: Daniel 5:1-6, 13-14, 16-17, 23-28, Daniel 3:62-67, Luke 21:12-19; Thursday (Thanksgiving): Daniel 6:12-28, Daniel 3:68-74, Luke 21:20-28; Friday: Daniel 7:2-14, Daniel 3:75-81, Luke 21:29-33; Saturday (St. Andrew): Romans 10:9-18, Matthew 4:18-22

www.archmil.org year-of-faith.htm In the weekly video series “C4: Ignite Your Catholic Faith,” Archdiocese of Milwaukee’s Auxiliary Bishop Donald J. Hying talks about a “hunger of the human heart.” (The “C4” represents “Christ and the Catechism of the Catholic Church.”) Posted every Friday, the twominute videos explaining the Catechism are aimed at Catholics in their 20s and 30s.

www.crs.org/yof Learn how Catholic Relief Services proclaims the Gospel through justice and charity and explore ways to make the Year of Faith a richer, more fulfilling time of renewal and spiritual discovery.

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.

The Nicene Creed: Prayer for the Year of Faith The Vatican has issued special prayer cards for the Year of Faith featuring the Nicene Creed on one side and the image of Christ Pantocrator on the other.

The Nicene Creed is the ultimate prayer of our Catholic Christian faith, and so it is the prayer for this Year of Faith: “It is by believing with the heart that you are justified, and by making the declaration with your lips that you are saved.

May the Year of Faith lead all believers to learn by heart the Creed and to say it every day as a prayer, so that the breathing agrees with the faith,” the Vatican’s Year of Faith website states.

To obtain copies of this prayer card, contact the Libreria Editrice Vaticana at segreteria.lev@lev.va.

4

catholicnewsherald.com | November 8, 2013 OUR PARISHES

Diocesan calendar of events ARDEN St. Barnabas Church, 109 Crescent Hill Dr.

Bishop Peter J. Jugis Bishop Peter J. Jugis will participate in the following events over the coming weeks: Nov. 10-15 U.S. Conference of Bishops Meeting Baltimore, Md.

— Fall Women’s Program, “Glory: Radiance of Holiness.

The story of St. Margaret of Scotland”: 9 a.m.

Saturday, Nov. 16. Followed by brunch and raffle. To RSVP, contact Marcia Torres at 828-684-6098, ext.

306.

Nov. 17 – 5 p.m.

Sacrament of Confirmation St. James Church, Concord

ASHEVILLE

Nov. 19 – 7 p.m.

Sacrament of Confirmation St. Thomas Aquinas Church, Charlotte

ST. EUGENE CHURCH, 72 CULVERN ST. — El grupo de oración se reúne todos los sábados a las 7 p.m. en la iglesia

Nov. 20 – 10 a.m.

Diocesan Foundation Board Meeting Catholic Conference Center, Hickory

BELMONT

Nov. 21 – 7 p.m.

Sacrament of Confirmation Our Lady of Assumption Church, Charlotte Nov. 23 – 2 p.m.

Sacrament of Confirmation St. Matthew Church, Charlotte Nov. 26 – 7 p.m.

Sacrament of Confirmation St. Luke Church, Mint Hill Dec. 4 – 7 p.m.

Sacrament of Confirmation Our Lady of the Angels Mission, Marion Dec. 7 – 2 p.m.

Sacrament of Confirmation St. Mark Church, Huntersville

— Natural Family Planning Introduction and Full Course: 1-5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9. Topics include: Effectiveness of modern NFP, health risks of popular contraceptives, Church teaching on responsible parenting, and how to use NFP. Offered by Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte. RSVP to Batrice Adcock, MSN, at 704-370-3230 or bnadcock@ charlottediocese.org.

Queen of the Apostles Church, 503 North Main St. — Community Breakfast: 8-11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 16.

Free breakfast in the MAK Family Life Center, includes pancakes, sausage and more. Come and bring a friend.

— Viewing the World Through the Gospel: 7:15 p.m. Nov. 12 in the MAK Family Life Center, presenter Father Frank Cancro — Exploring the Call of Charity, Love and Caring For Our Sisters and Brothers: 7:15 p.m. Nov. 19 in the MAK Family Life Center, presenters Mr. and Mrs. Bernie Offerman.

— Ministry of Moms Sharing: 9-11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 12, a new group for moms. Meetings will take place twice monthly. A time for moms with children of all ages to come together for study and fellowship for spiritual growth. Call the church at 704-825-9600 for details.

Held on the third Monday of every month. RCIA will provide information about the entire conversion process and include detailed Q&A sessions. For details, call Tom Lindemuth at 704-543-7677.

ST. THOMAS AQUINAS CHURCH, 1400 SUTHER ROAD — Mass of Remembrance: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13, in honor of our parishioners and loved ones who died this past year. There will be a Service of Light before Mass.

— Protecting God’s Children Workshop: 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16, in the Banquet Room. All volunteers must attend. Register at www.virtusonline.org.

— Christmas Fair: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16, Creative Christmas Festival. For details contact the Columbiettes at gen526@aol.com or 704-548-0644.

ST. ANN CHURCH, 3635 PARK ROAD — CCWG November Evening Reflection Talk: 7 p.m.

Monday, Nov. 18. Father Benjamin Roberts, pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Monroe, will speak on “To Welcome Jesus Christ: Preparing for Advent.”

Refreshments and social at 6:30 p.m.

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL CHURCH, 6828 OLD REID ROAD — Christmas Arts & Crafts Fair: 9-2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, in the Activity Center. For details call 704-644-4656 or email mhcushing@charlottediocese.org.

ST. PETER CHURCH, 507 S. TRYON ST. — Advent Reconciliation Service: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 17 ST. BASIL UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC MISSION, 1400 SUTHER ROAD — Feast of St. Josaphat: Monday, Nov. 11, Vespers at 6:30 p.m. Typica Service with Holy Communion at 7 p.m.

— Feast of the Presentation of Our Lady: Wednesday, Nov. 20, Vespers at 6:30 p.m. Typica Service with Holy Communion at 7 p.m.

OUR LADY OF CONSOLATION CHURCH, 1235 BADGER CT. — Perpetual Hope Gospel Choir’s 33rd Anniversary Gospel Concert: 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 10, in the Life Center.

CLEMMONS

CHARLOTTE

HOLY FAMILY CHURCH, 4820 KINNAMON ROAD

St. Gabriel Church, 3016 Providence Road — Veterans Day Mass: 10:45 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 10. All veterans, active duty personnel and their families are invited. Active-duty members are encouraged to wear uniforms. For details, contact Sister Joanne Kuhlmann at 704-900-9794.

ST. MATTHEW CHURCH, 8015 BALLANTYNE COMMONS PKWY. — St. Peregrine Healing Prayer Service: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 21 and Dec. 19, in the Daily Mass Chapel. St. Peregrine is the patron of cancer and grave diseases. For details, call the parish office at 704-543-7677.

— Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) meeting:

— Catholic Charismatic Prayer Group “Servants of Light”: 10 a.m. Saturdays. Everyone welcome.

St. Pius X Church, 2210 N. Elm St. — Grief Ministry presents an afternoon program entitled, “Coping with Grief during the Holidays”: 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 17. For details, contact the parish office at 336-272-4681.

— Veterans Day Mass: 9-10 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 12. To attend, call 336-273-9865 by Nov. 8.

HUNTERSVILLE ST. MARK CHURCH, 14740 Stumptown Road — Adult Evening with Father Jacques Philippe: 7-8:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11, in the parish hall. Reflect upon how to learn to place all our confidence in God and abandon ourselves in His loving care.

MINT HILL ST. LUKE CHURCH, 13700 Lawyers Road — Book Club: 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 26, in the Family Life Center. The Book Club will discuss “The Snow Angel” by Glenn Beck. For details contact Marilyn Armstrong at 704-753-1112.

MOORESVILLE FAITH UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, 430 PATTERSON AVE. — Fifth Annual Mooresville Community Ecumenical Thanksgiving Prayer Service sponsored by St. Thérèse Parish Ecumenical Commission: 7 p.m. Nov. 21. Jesuit Father Vince Curtin of St. Thérèse Church will be guest speaker.

SHELBY ST. MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS CHURCH, 818 MCGOWAN ROAD — CCWG Women’s Evening Reflection: 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5. Father Herbert Burke, pastor of Immaculate Conception Church in Forest City, will speak on the topic “Imitating Mary in the Modern World.” Visit www.charlottecatholicwomensgroup.org for details.

— Charismatic Prayer Group: 7:15 p.m. Mondays

WINSTON-SALEM St. Leo the Great Church, 335 Springdale Ave.

FRANKLIN ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CHURCH, 299 Maple St. — “Why I Am Catholic Today: Being an Intentional Catholic”: Father Dwight Longenecker from Greenville, S.C., will speak at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21.

Potluck supper at 6 p.m.

GREENSBORO ST. MARY CHURCH, 812 DUKE ST.

— Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University: 6-8 p.m. every Sunday evening at the church through Nov. 17. For details, contact Dan and Pam McVicker at 336-734-9415.

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

November 8, 2013 Volume 23 • Number 2

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 Hispanic communications reporter: Rico De Silva, 704-370-3375, rdesilva@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

November 8, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

Room at the Inn unveils new name ‘MiraVia’ during annual banquet Mary B. Richardson Correspondent

CHARLOTTE — With the birth of their first baby at the new college-based home in Belmont, Room at the Inn decided to give “birth” to a new identity for the organization as well. At their annual fundraising banquet on Oct. 24 in Charlotte, they announced a new name: MiraVia. “Room at the Inn is a name we love, but that we could never own,” explained executive director Jeannie Wray to the 1,000-plus supporters in attendance.

For example, Wray recounted, one night a man and all his belongings showed up at their doorstep and said, “I’m here to spend the night!”

“Not with me!” Wray exclaimed to the man who was obviously looking for Room In the Inn, a homeless shelter for men in Charlotte.

The organization had also lost donors who confused them with other like-named organizations, including Room at the Inn of the Triad. Rebranding was an obvious need, Wray said.

After several years of consideration, they set out to rebrand. Initially emailing clients and friends for inspiration, a team – led by board member Clayton Tolley, president and CEO of brandsymbol – had 300 ideas.

They narrowed it to 19, then three, and finally voted unanimously on MiraVia. It had emerged as the obvious choice.

With its sharp health care look, the new

name and accompanying compass logo were initially tailored to their prime audience: modern, single, pregnant women, especially those with a Hispanic background.

Derived from Latin for “miraculous way” and meaning “Look, let us point out the way” in Spanish, the new name also has a spiritual element.

“It’s a logo that appears so secular, but at closer look reveals a deeper meaning,” Wray explained.

“Mira” is a star in the part of the sky called “The Sea” whom historians believe was the Star of Bethlehem. From here Photo provided by Ruben Tamayo comes one of the Blessed Jeannie Wray, executive director of Room at the Inn, announced the Mother’s titles, “Mary Star organization’s new name during their annual fundraising banquet in Charlotte. of the Sea.” have also been involved in pro-life work “There is no way we could not blossom including the Helpers of God’s Precious under the Blessed Mother’s protection,” Infants in Michigan for many years.

Wray explained to the audience.

“We’re obviously supporting the baby – “We hope to inspire our community to we’re pro-life from conception to natural see the journey of pregnant women as a death – but I think it’s really important miraculous way, while promising that we will walk next to them and provide the long to be Christ to the woman in as many ways as we can. Many of these women are term support they need,” she continued. in a situation where they don’t want an In honor of the big news, guest speaker Teresa Tomeo gave a new talk on “The Three Rs of Faith.” Tomeo, a Catholic writer and radio host, and her husband RATI, SEE page 11

me what the residential program was about.

I got somewhere to live, three meals a day, and a very supportive environment. I got to go somewhere to keep my baby and provide for him.

CNH: How did you hear about MiraVia? Bianca: I went to my student health center when I found out I was pregnant and they gave me a list of resources that would help me if I wanted to keep it or if I wanted an abortion. I had considered having an abortion because I was in college; it was my first year in college. I didn’t have a job. I didn’t have funds or means to survive, to live where I needed to live in a safe environment with child care. When I sat down with Lucy (at MiraVia), it was a relief. She explained to

CNH: Noel, what do your parents think of you living here?

Noel: My parents are very supportive. Of course, they didn’t want me to live away with this being my first child, but they are very supportive and wanted me to do whatever made me happy. They are in Maryland. But, (my baby’s) daddy’s here; he goes to Belmont Abbey College. He’s very supportive and wants to be a part of the baby’s life. So I wanted to be close to him so we can be a family.

CNH: Bianca, who did you name your baby after?

Bianca: His full name is Kason Elisha.

Kason is a little bit of each my and my boyfriend’s names. His middle name is Elisha because I wanted there to be something biblical, too.

Diocesan foundation gives out record $5M Assets now top $24M SueAnn Howell Senior reporter

CNH: What’s the hardest part about living here?

Bianca: When I was pregnant, the hardest part was curfew. But now that Kason’s here, it’s a relief ! Now that I have a baby, I have to be in at a decent time so he’s taken care of. Now that I have the baby, I see that the curfew is for a good reason so I can get homework done, have dinner together and take care of Kason, keeping a

CHARLOTTE — For the first time in its 19-year history, the Foundation for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte has dispersed more than $5 million through its endowments.

The Foundation was established in 1994 to provide a means for individuals and organizations to provide long-term financial stability for the diocese and its more than 181 churches, schools, agencies and organizations.

An endowment is a permanent fund, the principal of which is never touched, but the income from which can be used in accordance with the wishes of the donor organization or individual.

Currently there are 213 endowments established by individuals or Catholic entities in the diocese. Total assets now top $24 million.

“It’s significant,” said Jim Kelley, director of development for the Diocese of Charlotte, speaking of the $5 million disbursement milestone.

“The endowments provide funds for our parishes, schools and organizations.

We’re trying to provide a means to generate income, to help sustain the long-term strength and viability of the diocese and its parishes, schools, agencies and ministries.”

The Foundation sends reports out to all the endowment holders every quarter stating where their endowment stands and how much is available to give out. As a rule, the Foundation gives out 5 percent of the rolling three-year average value of its total assets.

Endowments are a critical means of financial support, Kelley emphasized.

One endowment that has grown since its inception in the mid 1990s was set up

by Crosswell and Ethel Regan, members of Immaculate Conception Church in Forest City. The Regans converted to the Catholic faith in their mid 60s and upon their deaths willed all their possessions to the Forest City parish.

More than $400,000 was put into an endowment for the parish. Since that time, the church has received more than $496,000 in income from the endowment while the endowment itself has grown to more than $535,000. This year alone, the endowment is projected to provide more than $30,000 in income to the parish.

This endowment has already provided income greater than the initial amount of the bequest of the Regans. Over time, the endowment will grow to millions of dollars to benefit Immaculate Conception Church and its parishioners.

Asheville Catholic Schools also benefits from one of the oldest endowments set up by the Foundation.

“Our endowment has an enormous impact on our students here at ACS,

MOMS, SEE page 11

FOUNDATION, SEE page 10

A chat with two MiraVia moms BELMONT — The Catholic News Herald recently had the chance to sit down with Bianca and Noel, the first two residents of MiraVia’s new residential facility on the campus of Belmont Abbey College.

Bianca, a senior at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte who is studying criminal justice, gave birth to her son Kason in August. Noel is a graduate student studying sports leadership through Duquesne’s online program, and she is a recent Belmont Abbey College graduate.

She is expecting a son.

5

CNH: Bianca, what’s going through your parents’ minds?

Bianca: They are actually pretty proud of me. I was so nervous, but I had a plan. I didn’t want to just say, “Yes, I’m pregnant.”

I had to have my stuff together: this is what I’m going to do, etc. They always wanted me to have a plan. So, when I told them I was pregnant and was going to live at MiraVia, they were very proud of the fact that I took matters into my own hands and took care of things. They love where I am. They love the building, they love the people.

6

catholicnewsherald.com | November 8, 2013 OUR PARISHES

‘Defend human dignity: Take poverty off the map’ CCHD collection set for Nov. 24

Love Everlasting

Your daughter’s wedding. Your niece’s First Communion. The passing of a loved one.

Your first grandchild. Your parish has been there to celebrate your joys and comfort you in times of sorrow. By establishing an endowment to benefit your parish, the same love and care will be provided for many future generations.

To receive the free brochure, “A Simple Guide to Gift Planning” contact Judy Smith, Director of Planned Giving at 704-370-3320 or jmsmith@ charlottediocese.org

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

Enriching Family Relationships This workshop will help you grow in knowledge and awareness about the way you relate to each other in your family and learn attitudes that foster harmony and peace in family relationships.

Saturday, December 7, 2013 9am – Noon Presented by: Kathleen Ciani

CHARLOTTE — The annual CCHD collection which funds anti-poverty projects locally and across the country is set to take place in all parishes nationwide Nov. 24. Seventy-five percent of the CCHD funds distributed each year support the Catholic Campaign for Human Development national grant program. This past year, $118,145.05 was sent to the CCHD National Office.

Monsignor Mauricio West, vicar general and chancellor of the Diocese of Charlotte, in his letter accompanying the mailing of the 2012 check to the national CCHD office, expressed his gratitude for the funds donated by local parishioners.

“These funds have been generously donated by the people of the Diocese of Charlotte in the 2012 November CCHD Collection to assist CCHD efforts to fight poverty and defend human dignity,” Monsignor West wrote.

The funds are particularly needed in North Carolina, where the state’s poverty rate ranks 14th out of 50 states. The overall poverty rate in North Carolina is 17.9 percent. The poverty rate for women in the state is 19.2 percent and for children under 17, this number is even higher at 25.6 percent.

Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte aids in the distribution of the CCHD grants to address the root causes of poverty in America through the funding of community and economic development initiatives guided by self-help principles, in which people with low incomes and limited assets play a prominent role.

This past spring, Opportunity Threads, a worker-owned cut-and-sew company based in Morganton, received $60,000 through a second-year CCHD grant for its economic development initiatives. CCHD’s continued support means Opportunity Threads can pursue developing its own “milled and made in NC” product line. The cooperative hopes to expand its workforce in the coming two to three years to 25 to 30 workers providing high-quality, unique production lines.

Many of their workers were unemployed or underemployed (prior to coming to Opportunity Threads), so the CCHD support will aid in finding resources for training and capacity building as well as support the economy of the Burke County region.

“Through the support of Catholic parishioners in the CCHD national collection each November, funds are available to support job-creating efforts such as Opportunity Threads in North Carolina and across the U.S.,” said Joseph Purello, director of the Office of Justice and Peace for Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte.

“With CCHD funds, Opportunity Threads will increase its infrastructure, expand capacity to handle higher-volume contracts, and pilot its own ‘all North Carolina’ supply chain.”

This past May, the remaining 25 percent of CCHD funds distributed was awarded to 11 local CCHD grant recipients. Grants totaling $39,385 were distributed to nonprofits from across the diocese: three from the Smoky Mountain Vicariate; three from the Greensboro Vicariate; three from the Charlotte Vicariate; one from the Salisbury Vicariate and one from the Hickory Vicariate.

The non-profits were awarded grants for initiatives such as: helping ex-prisoners reenter society; fostering community advocacy to provide services to immigrants; promoting financial literacy; assisting the terminally ill with compassionate end-oflife care; providing resources to families expecting the birth of a child with severe disabilities; and helping build ramps for senior citizens with disabilities.

More information about the Catholic Campaign for Human Development can be found at www.usccb.org/about/catholiccampaign-for-human-development/index. cfm. For local grant information, contact Purello at 704-370-3225 or jtpurello@ charlottediocese.org.

— SueAnn Howell, senior reporter

Cost: $15

A Journey with the Church Fathers through the Rosary This program will examine the scriptural stories that underline the rosary meditations through the writings of the church fathers, Romano Guardini and Blessed John Henry Newman.

Saturday, December 14, 2013 9am – 3pm (There is optional evening prayer and overnight accommodations for an additional charge.)

Presented by: Fr. Joe Pearce

Cost: $40 for Saturday only; additional $40 for overnight & Saturday breakfast

4 statues behind St. Patrick School vandalized CHARLOTTE — Four statues in a garden behind St. Patrick School in Charlotte were destroyed sometime over the weekend of Nov. 2-3. Father Lucas Rossi, parochial vicar of St. Patrick Cathedral, located adjacent to the school, discovered the vandalism on Sunday, Nov. 3, while walking the grounds.

A concrete statue of the Virgin Mary and a wooden statue of St. Francis were broken up and completely destroyed. A statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and a statue of Moses were also decapitated and destroyed.

St. Patrick School Principal Debbie Mixer was informed of the vandalism on Monday, Nov. 4, at which time the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department was notified and a police report was filed.

After school Nov. 4, Father Rossi and the school faculty gathered in the school garden to dispose of the broken statues. They prayed

the Divine Mercy Chaplet, then Father Rossi sprinkled the pieces with holy water and blessed salt before burying them in the garden. He also blessed the garden area, he said, to dispel any evil spirits or demons that may have been attached to the place.

This is the second case of vandalism on church property in Charlotte this year. In January, the altar at St. Thomas Aquinas Church was desecrated by an unknown burglar.

Other cases of vandalism at Catholic churches in Charlotte over the past few years include a pro-life display torn down in front of St. Vincent de Paul Church in 2012, a statue of Mary outside of St. Matthew Church decapitated in 2010, and a statue of Jesus decapitated and sprayed with graffiti at St. Ann Church in 2009.

— Catholic News Herald

November 8, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com

OUR PARISHESI

7

Sisters of Mercy Urgent Care bike team members are pictured just before they departed Spruce Pine on their journey. From left are Ron Reeser and Anna Long, who rode for Arts for Life; the Catherine McAuley MERCY Foundation team: Dave Voss, Buster Brown, Karen Brown, Father John Schneider, Tim Johnston and Celia Liming; and the foundation’s director of mission and values, Sister Maria Goretti.

Photo provided by Jeremy Carter

‘Biking for life’ across N.C. Sisters of Mercy Urgent Care team raises more than $20k for Haiti mission Tim Johnston Special to the Catholic News Herald

ASHEVILLE — On the cool early fall morning of Saturday, Sept. 29, I and five other supporters of Sisters of Mercy Urgent Care’s Catherine McAuley MERCY Foundation hopped on our bicycles in Spruce Pine and embarked on a ride across the state. Our goal: to raise $20,000 to support Sisters of Mercy Urgent Care’s medical mission in Haiti. One week and 504 miles later, we finished in Atlantic Beach, tan and sore yet exhilarated…and having

surpassed our goal and raised a total of $20,625.

All six members of our team – which also included board member Buster Brown and his wife Karen, and supporters Celia Liming, Father John Schneider and Dave Voss – paid their own way on the journey.

As a result, every penny we raised will benefit the people of Haiti, which is still reeling from the effects of a magnitude 7.0 earthquake that struck in January 2010.

Thanks to the people who supported us on this ride, we can continue to send teams of medical volunteers to Haiti four times a year (the latest team left Oct. 27), and we’ll be able to arm those volunteers with the supplies they need to treat people for everything from fungal infections to cholera to hunger.

I had the opportunity to tag along on a trip to Haiti this summer, and two things stand out in my mind most from that experience. First, there’s no sustainable economy in Haiti. There are few natural resources, and as a result there are virtually no exports. These people are the

NOW - THE TRUTH OF THE EUCHARIST REVEALED AS...

"Science Tests Faith" This DVD presents the findings from the investigation of a Eucharistic miracle commissioned by Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina in 1999. This Cardinal is now known to the world as Pope Francis!

poorest of the poor, and they simply cannot pull out of their current situation by themselves; they rely on help from outside sources, yet even then the solution is not easy. It will likely take decades before Haiti is truly back on its feet.

Second, I was struck by the gratitude expressed by the people of Haiti for us being there. They were happy to see us and grateful for the help we provide them on each visit. You can catch a glimpse of their appreciation – and the experience of serving in Haiti – in a short film made during that trip that’s on our website at www.urgentcares.org/haiti.

Having spent that week in Haiti, I realized that our annual Bike for Life ride is particularly appropriate for this cause.

Yes, this time around we were riding as part of Cycle North Carolina’s annual Mountains to Coast trek, so there was a support team that carried our supplies.

St.Ann

Tim Johnston is the chief executive officer for Sisters of Mercy Urgent Care in Asheville.

Catholic Church

Concert Series FOURTH SEASON • OPENING CONCERT: Sunday November 17, 2013, 4:00 pm Marsha Harris & John Renwick—

What science discovers will confront the mind and heart of every person. See and hear the story unfold as flesh and blood, heart muscle tissue and human DNA are discovered in this miracle!

Appalachian Mountain Dulcimers & Native American Flute

What Does Science Have to Say? To order DVD, visit our Web Site at: www.loveandmercy.org or send $16 plus $4 (shipping & handling) to: Love and Mercy Publications, P O Box 1160, Hampstead, NC 28443

But it was enlightening to spend each night in a tent and travel anywhere from 58 to 83 miles per day by the power of my own two legs. In Haiti, an estimated 600,000 people are still living in tents since the earthquake, and many of them have to walk many miles every day to secure the basic necessities, including food and water.

We’re already in the planning stages for next year’s Bike for Life. Perhaps we’ll ride across the state again, or maybe we’ll take a different route such as the Blue Ridge Parkway. In any case, we’ll use this event and other fundraisers throughout the year to continue building a mission that honors the cause of the Sisters of Mercy and their founder, Catherine McAuley: caring for those who are poor and marginalized by society.

Exceptional area musicians and fine acoustics allow you to vividly experience the intimate connection between artist and instrument.

Reception for the artists follows each concert. Get artist and ticket info at:

StAnnCharlotte.org

St. Ann Church • 3635 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28209 • 704-523-4641 ext. 221 SA119 CNH_Ad.indd 1

10/21/13 1:10 PM

8

catholicnewsherald.com | November 8, 2013 OUR PARISHES

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief Fr. Duong named pastor of Highlands mission

component of family strengthening: n Hayesville First United Methodist Church, for The Gathering Place n Graham Revitalization Economic Action Team, for Imagination Library n REACH of Clay County, for Night Shelter Manager n Ledford’s Chapel United Methodist Church, for Matt’s Ministry n Hope for Families of Graham County, for Victim Advocate and Outreach n Hinton Rural Life Center, for Firewood Ministry

CHARLOTTE — Father Tien Duong has been appointed pastor of Our Lady of the Mountains Mission in Highlands effective Oct. 28, Bishop Peter Jugis recently announced.

Father Duong continues to serve as pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Franklin.

— Joseph Purello

— Catholic News Herald

Priests’ special anniversaries Three priests in the Diocese of Charlotte celebrated their 20th anniversaries of ordination in October. They are Father Carmen Malacari, pastor of Holy Spirit Church in Denver, and Fathers JaehyunPak and Youngcheoi Kim, who are serving in the Greeensboro area.

SJN adopts Glenmary missionary church Celebrating the faith in Tryon TRYON — Members of St. John the Baptist Church in Tryon participated in a Eucharistic Procession through downtown Tryon Oct. 25.

The procession was the kick-off event for a weekend celebrating parish life. Father Joshua Voitus was a guest speaker and celebrant at Mass on Oct. 26, and parishioners enjoyed a parish picnic on Oct. 27.

CHARLOTTE — Glenmary Father Don Tranel was the homilist during the Forty Hour Devotion Oct. 20-22 at St. John Neumann Church in Charlotte.

St. John Neumann Parish recently adopted a Glenmary missionary church in Georgia. Parishioners will help the missionary church grow, offering support both financially and with visits to the church itself.

— Al Tinson and Marty Schneider

— Father John Eckert and Joel Raines

Latin Requiem Mass celebrated on All Souls Day CHARLOTTE — A solemn Requiem Mass was celebrated for the Feast of All Souls Nov. 2 at St. Ann Church in Charlotte. Father Jason Barone (pictured above) said the Mass. Father Timothy Reid, pastor of St. Ann Church, served as deacon and Father Matthew Kauth served as subdeacon.

The catafalque, an ornamental structure sometimes used in funerals for the lying in state of the body, was a casket donated

by Hankins & Whittington Funeral Service in Charlotte.

The black set of vestments, candles and candlesticks were all funded through donations by the Charlotte Latin Mass Community.

— Chris Lauer

St. Mark Church hosts Children’s Adoration Hour

OEO grant winners announced The CCDOC Office of Economic Opportunity awarded six grants totaling $20,000 at this year’s Bishop Begley Conference. This year’s grant awards marked the 13th year these grants have been distributed. Since 2001, more than $257,000 in grants have been distributed to organizations in far western North Carolina to fund community and economic development projects. This year’s recipients were all awarded grants for projects that had some

HUNTERSVILLE — In observance of the 11th annual Worldwide Children and Youth Eucharistic Holy Hour, St. Mark Church in Huntersville held a Children’s Adoration Hour Oct. 4. More than 40 young people from the parish participated in the event, which began with prayer, crafts and music at St. Mark School, followed by a procession from the school to the church sanctuary. Father Matthew Codd, parochial vicar, led the procession carrying the Blessed Sacrament. Inside the church, he led the children in prayer, ending the hour with several minutes of quiet meditation.

At the end of the event, each participant was given a tote bag featuring a picture of the monstrance and a quote reading, “An Hour in Your Presence Lord.” Organizers said they hope to continue the Children’s Adoration Hour at the parish on the first Friday of every month, giving the children additional items, such as prayer cards and rosaries to add to their bags to help them prayerfully fill the time during Adoration.

“Our goal is to give the children of our parish the opportunity to learn about Eucharistic Adoration and to experience the peace and joy that comes from spending an hour in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament,” said Terese Sides, St. Mark Pastoral Council member and the event’s coordinator.

— Janis Boone and Jane Flyke

Blessing of the animals SYLVA — On Oct. 26, a lovely fall Sunday, Father Joshua Voitus, pastor of St. Mary, Mother of God Church in Sylva, blessed the many loved pets that parishioners brought in. “ Piggie”, a cute guinea pig who received a blessing in honor of St. Francis, is held by his owner Chritina Reitz.

— Vicki Dorsey

More online At www.catholicnewsherald: See more pet blessing photos in our online photo gallery

November 8, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com

Eastern rite mission plans feast day celebrations

MOORESVILLE — Jesuit Father Vince Curtin, pastor of St. Thérèse Church in Mooresville, will be the guest speaker during the fifth annual Mooresville Community Ecumenical Thanksgiving Prayer Service, starting at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21, at Faith United Methodist Church in Mooresville.

Proceeds from a collection that will be taken up will be split between the Christian Mission and the Mooresville Soup Kitchen. The event is sponsored in part by the St. Thérèse Parish Ecumenical Commission.

CHARLOTTE — The Feast of St. Josaphat will be celebrated at St. Basil Ukrainian Catholic Mission on the evening of Monday, Nov. 11. Vespers will be celebrated at 6:30 p.m. and a Typica Service with Holy Communion will follow at 7 p.m. A first-class relic of the martyr will be present at the chapel for veneration.

Also, the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lady will be celebrated on Wednesday, Nov. 20. Vespers will be celebrated at 6:30 p.m. and a Typica Service with Holy Communion will follow at 7 p.m.

The Eastern rite Catholic mission community meets at the chapel of St. Thomas Aquinas Church, located at 1400 Suther Road in Charlotte.

For details, go to www.stbasil.weebly.com.

Ecumenical prayer workshop held in Brevard CHARLOTTE — A fourth-grade class at St. John Neumann Church in Charlotte recently collected 102 pairs of socks for the Men’s Shelter in Charlotte. Deemed “Socktober,” students brought in socks all month long with their instructors Karen and Mike Horeth and Madison Gregory encouraging them along the way. The socks will be delivered during a regular parish visit to prepare dinner at the men’s homeless shelter. The idea for Socktober came from a “Kid President” series of videos. In the video, Kid President teaches kids how to use the internet in a positive way by suggesting they collect socks as a way to help those in need at shelters.

— Jennifer Noto and Karen Horeth

9

Thanksgiving prayer service planned in Mooresville

— Lisa Cash

SJN kids celebrate ‘Socktober’

OUR PARISHESI

BREVARD — Monsignor Nicholas P. Amato, a retired priest of the Archdiocese of Baltimore, recently conducted a two-day workshop at Sacred Heart Church in Brevard entitled “Prayer That Makes A Difference. An Ecumenical Workshop on Contemplative Prayer.”

The workshop was designed to help each participant learn the fine art of prayerful presence where God can be experienced directly, and how contemplative prayer can flower into action.

This was the second ecumenical workshop Amato on contemplative prayer sponsored by the parish.

— Dorice Narins

Fr. Philippe to give talk in Huntersville HUNTERSVILLE — International author and speaker Father Jacques Philippe, professed with the Community of the Beatitudes, will lead an evening program for adults from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11, at St. Mark Church, based on his book “Searching For and Maintaining Peace.” The event, held in the parish hall, is free and open to everyone.

Father Philippe will also lead a retreat for the parish’s Women of Joy group Nov. 8-10 at St. Mark Church in Huntersville, and he will speak to the parish’s high school teen group on Nov. 10 about “Making Time for God through Prayer.”

With more than 400,000 copies of his books sold in 18 languages, Father Philippe’s writings on themes such as prayer, interior freedom, and peace of heart have become classics of modern Catholic spirituality.

For details, call the St. Mark parish office at 704-948-0231.

— Donna F. Smith

Filipino immersion program under way Teens, adults enjoy program with Francois HUNTERSVILLE — More than 1,000 parents, adults and teens were inspired through stories, jokes and music led Jackie Francois, a national youth worship leader and musician, during the weekend of Sept. 28-29 at St. Mark Church in Huntersville.

On Sunday evening, Francois closed the evening with music from Matt Maher from the popular song “Lord, I Need You.” — Donna F. Smith

CHARLOTTE — Students, parents and teachers of the Eskwelahang Munti (translated from Tagalog as “Little School”) are pictured recently outside the Asian Library in Charlotte. This immersion program – supported by the Filipino-American Spirit Inc. and directed by Gloria Grifenhagen, a retired teacher from South Mecklenburg (pictured at right, first row) – aims to teach the language, history, geography and culture of the Philippines to Filipino-American youth. It recently received a $3,000 grant from the Diocese of Charlotte Foundation.

— Dr. Cris Villapando We welcome your parish’s news! Please email news items and photos to Editor Patricia L. Guilfoyle at plguilfoyle@charlottediocese.org.

Columbiettes Auxiliary 10505 formed at Charlotte parish Knights earn award LEXINGTON — Frank Greco, Grand Knight of St. Francis de Sales Council 12481 of Our Lady of the Rosary Church in Lexington, recently received the Columbian Award from District Deputy Boyce Williams. This award is given to the council for completing the recruitment commitments as well as the programs for prolife, church, community and other charitable events.

— Linda McAdam

CHARLOTTE — On July 13, 36 women from several Catholic parishes took their minor and major degrees in a ceremony at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Charlotte – establishing the Columbiettes Auxiliary 10505. The ceremony was followed by the installation of elected officers and a reception. The next morning, Father Christopher Riehl, parochial vicar, introduced the new Columbiettes to the parish during the 9:30 a.m. Mass and extended his blessing.

The new auxiliary is planning several activities, including a craft and vendor fair, outreach to military veterans and mothers in need, support of the homeless, as well as social and spiritual events.

For general information about the Columbiettes, go online to www.columbiettes.com. For information about this new auxiliary, contact Gen Rollins, president, at gen526@aol.com or check its website at www.columbiettes10505.org.

— Ulla Hinchey

10

catholicnewsherald.com | November 8, 2013 OUR PARISHES

FOUNDATION: FROM PAGE 5

as it has a broad range of influence on school operations,” said Principal Michael Miller. “We have been able to access funds to assist with everything from staff development and training, to student resources like textbooks, technology and fine arts offerings.

“The most important use to date has been to aid in the development of our staff members. Our teachers are our most important resource in educating our students, and without nurturing their professional growth, the growth of our students is stunted.

“This year already, our staff has participated in over 150 cumulative hours of staff development – much of which was paid for through our (endowment).

This training comes right back into the classroom to enhance instruction and learning for our students.”

Kelley said he is grateful for the

accomplishments achieved throughout the diocese with the help of the faithful and the endowments they had the foresight to create.

“We’re celebrating that the vision that we had in 1994 to set up the Foundation, and now almost 20 years later all this good is being done,” he said.

For more information about the Foundation or how to set up an endowment, contact Judy Smith, diocesan director of planned giving, at 704-370-3320 or jmsmith@charlottediocese.org.

Let’s keep talking.

Interim English Teacher Charlotte Catholic High School is in need of an Interim English Teacher until February 1, 2014.

Must be NC certified to teach AP English, 11th grade and 12th grade (Honors 12th grade ) If interested, please contact Angela Montague at: 704-716-2454 or ammontague@charlottecatholic.com

Photo provided by Catholic Charities USA

Father Kloster accepts national Catholic Charities award Father George Kloster, retired pastor of St. William Church in Murphy and Immaculate Heart of Mary Mission in Hayesville, officially received the Catholic Charities USA Volunteer of the Year Award Sept. 15 at an awards dinner held in conjunction with CCUSA’s 2013 national conference in San Francisco. Pictured with him is CCUSA President Father Larry Snyder and CCUSA Board Chair Sister Linda Yankowski. Father Kloster received the award for his 15 years of volunteer service with Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte’s Office of Economic Opportunity in Murphy.

Christ the King Catholic High School 2011 Crusader Way • Huntersville, NC 28078

Please join us for our

OPEN HOUSE November 23, 10 a.m - noon

Believe

Think

Serve

November 8, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com

RATI: FROM PAGE 5

abortion, but have nowhere to go,” Tomeo said.

During the banquet, Monsignor Mauricio West, vicar general and chancellor of the Diocese of Charlotte, read a letter announcing an apostolic blessing for the newly-named organization.

Also, the annual “Hero for Life” award

MOMS: FROM PAGE 5

routine. It’s been a great experience, I’ll tell you that.

CNH: Tell us more about the curfew.

Noel: It’s 6 p.m., and you get one day a week to be out until 9 p.m. I think that was the biggest adjustment for me because since my junior year of high school, I really haven’t had a set curfew. So that is a big adjustment. But it’s efficient. It gives me time to do my school work, time to rest. I have to remind myself that I’m carrying a baby. I’m so used to being on the go all the time, so I have to remind myself that I have to slow down.

CNH: What’s the best part of your experience here?

Noel: Being around the staff and being around Bianca. We hit it off as soon as we met. It’s just being around these wonderful people who makes it feel like you’re at home, like you’re family.

was given to teen Hannah Mixer for her school fundraising efforts to buy ultrasound machines.

“Every organization needs to modify and adjust for society. It (the new name) will help it to grow,” said John Nobers, a member of St. Ann Church in Charlotte.

“I love the new name,” added Iris Newton, MiraVia program assistant and member of St. Matthew Church in Charlotte. “Especially because I’m Hispanic and see the meaning behind it, too.”

Learn more on the organization’s new website, www.mira-via.org.

11

Ready - 2 - Retire™?

There are two things that you can do right now that will make a BIG difference when you retire. ✔ Set Goals & Priorities ✔ Understand your risks Take 15 minutes and complete our Ready -2-Retire planning tool at: www.metlife.ready-2-retire.me/KennethAltman Forward the completed information back to me or just keep a copy for your self.

Call: 704-839-3755 or email: kaltman@metlife.com Retirement Planning – Life – LTC – Auto & Home Information L0213304211(exp1215) NC

Ken Altman

Seven Gifts, Ltd.

CNH: How long will you stay?

Bianca: I will stay for two years. They are very supportive, and I don’t have to worry about moving out quickly.

CNH: Noel, what kind of birth classes are you taking?

Noel: Tomorrow is my first birth class: labor and delivery. Miss Debbie (at MiraVia) and my mom and other staff members told me that it’s comforting to take the class. Everyone feels the labor differently, but it prepares you for what to expect. I’m scared to go into labor. But Bianca told me that her labor wasn’t bad.

Bianca has a high tolerance for pain. I hope that I am able to deal with the pain as well as she was! We’ll just have to wait and see.

OUR PARISHESI

Your Catholic Resource Center www.sevengiftsltd.com

CNH: Are you looking forward to having more moms here?

Noel: Not yet! I would be happy with more moms, but I kind of like it just the two of us! I know eventually more people will move in, but I like having this mansion to ourselves!

— Mary B. Richardson, correspondent

Prepare the way for the Holy Season of Advent with our selection of …

Advent Wreaths, Meditations for adults and children, Candles, Nativity Sets, Calendars

Store Hours: Tuesday & Wednesday 10am - 4pm Thursday 12pm – 4pm, Friday 10am – 6pm Conveniently located at 1200 South York Rd. (Rt. 321) Gastonia, NC 28052

704-271-4149 Check our Facebook Page for specials and events

Beautiful, complimentary gift wrapping for all purchases.

In 2010, Haiti was hit by a devastating earthquake.

Today, the country is still reeling.

Watch the Mercy for Haiti film and help us continue to make a difference for those forgotten.

Visit urgentcares.org/haiti

Visit urgentcares.org to make a donation, or mail your gift (payable to CMMF) to P.O. Box 16367, Asheville, NC 28816

12

catholicnewsherald.com | November 8, 2013 OUR PARISHES

40 Days for Life 2013 fall campaign comes to an end Annette Tenny Correspondent

All are invited for an evening with Father Jacques Philippe Author of Searching For and Maintaining Peace Monday, November 11th 7-8:30 pm in the parish hall St. Mark Catholic Church 14740 Stumptown Road Huntersville 28078

Don’t miss this rare opportunity of hearing Father Philippe share his inspirational insights and practical advice of how each of us can realize peace in our daily lives.

A free-will offering will be taken at the end of the evening.

Contact Donna Smith 704-948-1306 or dsmith18@bellsouth.net if you need more information or have questions about the event.

CCDOC.ORG

National Adoption Month Join Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte in celebrating National Adoption Month in November. Catholic Charities has been helping people build their families through adoption since 1948. Our professional staff provides ongoing comprehensive support, education, and guidance to prospective adoptive families as they continue through their adoption journey. We believe that a child deserves to have a family to guide them through life. In turn, we know there are many families with the desire and hope to open up their hearts and homes to these children.

If you are interested in the Adoption Program, please join us for a free, monthly information meeting in Charlotte.

Adoption Information Meeting November 12, 2013 / 4:30pm - 6:30pm 1123 S. Church Street, Charlotte, NC 28203 Call 704-370-3232 to register or visit ccdoc.org for more information.

WINSTON-SALEM — 40 Days for Life is a pro-life campaign every spring and fall that offers peaceful, prayer-centered resistance to abortion. Participants agree to fast, pray, hold public vigil to increase awareness and reach out to communities and individuals with alternative assistance for pregnant women and their families.

The Diocese of Charlotte featured three urban locations during this year’s fall 40 Days for Life campaign, which began Sept.

25 and ended Nov. 3. Daily vigils were held in Charlotte at A Preferred Women’s Health Center on Latrobe Drive and Family Reproductive Health on Hebron Street, in Greensboro at Piedmont Carolina Medical Clinic on Randleman Road, and in Winston-Salem at Planned Parenthood on Maplewood Avenue.

According to 40 Days for Life’s website, www.40daysforlife.com, people in more than 500 cities across the U.S. took part in the fall campaign, with a reported 476 babies saved from abortion.

In Winston-Salem, 40 Days for Life local site director Mary Pohailos said she was excited to see so many new, young faces this year.

“It’s important to see young people witness,” Pohailos said. “They immediately form a bond with women and men their own age.”

Pohailos, a parishioner of St. Leo Church in Winston-Salem, also explained that new training sessions for coordinators have had some impact on getting and retaining volunteers. People are encouraged to have two setups: one vigil location at the closest major intersection to an abortion mill, and a second vigil location closer to the abortion mill if possible. Graphic, disturbing or inflammatory signs are discouraged, while life-affirming photos of babies have been found to be more effective, she noted.

The Winston-Salem group has a core group of members for Pohailos to call on and the international 40 Days for Life’s website offers a quick and easy sign-up process for volunteers.

Annette Tenny | Catholic News Herald

Mary Pohailos, Winston-Salem coordinator for 40 Days for Life, and long-time prayer vigil participant John Andrysick stand together for a picture at the intersection of Maplewood Avenue and Bethesada Road. The intersection is a busy traffic area, a few blocks from a major medical center surrounded by numerous doctors’ offices. Andrysick stands at the intersection while Pohailos stands one block east in front of the side street that leads to the local Planned Parenthood facility.

“I’ll keep track of the weather, send out emails to remind people of their vigil times, and whether or not they need a raincoat,” she said. “Along with a few others, I’m out every day during the vigil. Sometimes people don’t sign up, but they show up when they can and offer up whatever time they can.”

For Pohailos, it is important to remind people to communicate with the men who come with the women to the abortion mill. Many times, people won’t stop for or accept any literature before they go into the abortion mill, but those standing vigil offer help and pamphlets to those coming out, too. Often, Pohailos said, it is the men who will take the literature for Rachel’s Vineyard, a healing retreat for postabortive women and men, or will stop to talk with the vigil participants, she noted.

“We’re not judging,” Pohailos said.

“We’re here to pray, to help and, hopefully, to let people know there’s another way – the way of life.”

Mama’s home!

GREENSBORO — Deacon Enedino Aquino welcomes the Pilgrim Image of Our Lady of Guadalupe to Our Lady of Grace Church in Greensboro during its weekly bilingual Mass Nov. 3.

The “Traveling Madonna” was brought to the parish by the Knights of Columbus, as part of its Marian Prayer Program dedicated to Our Lady of Guadalupe. The program was launched Aug. 3, 2011, at the Knights’ Supreme Convention in Denver. The image was touched to the tilma of St. Juan Diego, which bears the original image of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The frame is also sealed with soil from Tepeyac Hill, where Our Lady appeared to St. Juan Diego.

The replica was blessed by Pope Benedict XVI in 2010.

RICO DE SILVA | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

November 8, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com

OUR PARISHESI

Georgianna Penn | Catholic News Herald

Volunteer Chana Ball, ministry leader Krisan Walker and her son Joshua Walker are pictured with “friends” of the Sunshine Club on Bingo Night Sept. 6.

Sunshine Club opens hearts to life at St. Pius X Parish Georgianna Penn Correspondent

GREENSBORO — Filled with fun and fellowship for more than 15 years, the Sunshine Club is an outreach ministry of St. Pius X Church in Greensboro that provides social and recreational activities to developmentally disabled adults in Guilford County.

More than 60 participants meet on the first Friday of every month to enjoy movie night, bingo, pizza parties, holiday parties and dances.

“I like my friends, the food … I like everything,” says a longtime member, or “friend,” of the Sunshine Club.

“Most of all, they enjoy one another,” shares ministry leader Krisan Walker.

There are few opportunities for this group of adults to socialize, Walker says. The group originally met at the YWCA in the 1990s, but when evening hours changed at the YWCA, St. Pius X kindly opened its doors and heart to the Sunshine Club.

Walker says the way to become a participant is to simply “show up.” The group is specifically open to adults 18 years and older with cognitive limitations.

This can be due to a head injury, mental illness, autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, or any cognitive dysfunction. Some individuals are dually diagnosed with developmental disabilities and mental illness. Participants live in group homes, assisted living, live independently or with family members.

Even as the Sunshine Club provides social opportunities for its members, it also provides a respite for caregivers.

“The caregivers get a break and the participants get to go out,” Walker says. “Everyone wants to go out and be with friends – that’s what ‘Cheers’ was about, wasn’t it? Being with friends, having a purpose, that is what makes life enjoyable! Everyone deserves to have that opportunity.”

The Sunshine Club celebrates life and teaches life. “It changes lives for the participants and the volunteers,” says Carolyn Painley, parish community life director. With more than seven of the volunteers teens and families volunteering together, the Sunshine Club provides an opportunity to teach parish youth about the value of all life.

“It is not necessarily a big (time) commitment, but it is an important one because it may be the only opportunity for these adults to get together and socialize,” says Bishop McGuinness High School sophomore Alex Strasser. “It’s nice to be there for that.”

Walker’s 15-year-old son Joshua, who also volunteers with the group, sees it as family. “The unity and bonds between the people in the program, that’s the benefit of the Sunshine Club,” he says.

Adds Walker, “This program celebrates life. It celebrates life in a meal shared by friends, the joy of a dance or the smile of a friend. It celebrates life because seven of the volunteers are youth, teens who freely give of their time and see St. Pius X value life, value life from conception until natural death.

“What more could you want?”

To become a participant or volunteer, call Krisan Walker at 336-674-0494.

At Naturopathic Health, Dr. Cherie Minette, is a medically-trained physician who uses natural therapies to heal the body and eliminate illness.

218 E Tremont Ave, Ste B Charlotte, NC 28203

704.414.0380

www.DrMinette.com

Specializing in: Depression/Anxiety Hormonal Imbalances Digestive Disorders Blood Pressure/Cholesterol

Diocese of Charlotte Tour of Ethiopia & Ghana Addis Ababa • Lalibela •Axum • Accra • Kumasi • Cape Coast

March 10 – 27, 2014 $5,990 per person including round trip airfare from 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

13

catholicnewsherald.com | Novenber 8, 2013 14

Sacerdote carismático amigo del Papa visita Charlotte Rico De Silva Hispanic Communications Reporter

CHARLOTTE — Con un coro de alabanza de “Nadie es más grande que mi Dios,” una asamblea de casi 500 católicos hispanos congregados en la Parroquia de St. Vicente de Paul dieron la bienvenida al Padre Claudio Olszanski de la Diócesis de la Nueva Orán, Argentina, durante la primera parte de su servicio de sanación en Charlotte la noche del 28 de Octubre.

El sacerdote carismático pertenece a la comunidad “Adoremos al que Vive,” la cual fue fundada en Buenos Aires, Argentina en el 2005. Su comunidad actualmente forma parte de la Diócesis de la Nueva Orán. El Papa Francisco era el guía pastoral de la comunidad desde el 2005, cuando era el Cardinal Arzobispo Bergoglio de la Diócesis de Buenos Aires, hasta su elección como Pontífice en Marzo de este año. El carisma de “Adoremos” es la evangelización por medio de la alabanza y la adoración, predicando el Reino de Dios y su justicia.

Después de un preludio musical de alabanza por el talentoso cantante dominicano, Jorge Morel y su Banda, los presentes levantaron sus manos y afirmaron en voz alta que, “Mi Dios es Poderoso,” y prepararon sus corazones para recibir ansiosamente una sanación del Rey de Reyes por medio del Padre Claudio.

El sacerdote inició el servicio con la promesa de una ‘nueva Pentecostés’ sobre la asamblea. “Esta noche hemos venido a tener una experiencia fuerte de Dios,” dijo el Padre Claudio. “¿Están dispuestos a que el Espíritu Santo llueva aquí esta noche?” preguntó el Padre a los presentes antes de exponer el Santísimo Sacramento y de comenzar su predicación. Después de un rotundo ‘Amén’ de la congregación, él dijo, “Entonces pongámonos de rodillas ante el Señor de los Señores y pidámosle que derrame su Espíritu Santo ahora.”

Ya con el Santísimo expuesto sobre el altar, el sacerdote recordó a los presentes que “Estar en la Presencia del Santísimo es como estar en el Cielo.” “Esta noche Dios tiene maravillas para nosotros. Vamos a volver al tesoro de la Iglesia Católica, que es Jesucristo en el Santísimo Sacramento de la Eucaristía,” dijo el Padre Claudio.

El sacerdote predicó acerca del Primer Libro de Reyes, capítulo 18: 20-40: El duelo del Profeta Elías en el Monte Carmelo contra los 400 falsos profetas paganos de Baal, y bajo el comando de la ‘bruja’ Jezabel, la esposa del Rey Ajab.

Citando el 1 Reyes 18:21, cuando Elías pregunta al Pueblo de Israel en el Monte Carmelo, “ ‘¿Hasta cuándo van a seguir cojeando de las dos piernas? Si el Señor es Dios, síganlo; si es Baal, síganlo a él.’” “Así como el Israel del tiempo de Elías, andan unos aquí,” “Con un pie en la Iglesia, y un pie en la brujería; un pie en la Iglesia, y un pie en la pornografía; un pie en la Iglesia y un pie en la lotería…” dijo el Padre Claudio. “Están cojos de las dos piernas.

Escojan esta noche a quien van a seguir.”

Con un estilo de predicación muy compasivo, un suave tono de voz marcado

Rico De Silva | Catholic News Herald

El Padre Claudio Olszanski de la Diócesis de la Nueva Orán, Argentina, predicando el Evangelio en la Parroquia de San Gabriel durante la segunda parte de su servicio de sanación en Charlotte el 28 de Octubre. por un típico y susurrante acento argentino, y sin nunca levantar la voz, el Padre Claudio afirmó a los presentes que, “De la misma manera que Elías, siendo el único profeta de Dios que quedaba en Monte Carmelo venció a los 400 profetas paganos de la ‘bruja’ Jezabel por el poder de Dios, así Dios puede hacer milagros en nuestras vidas por su propia fuerza si seguimos su voluntad,” dijo él. “Pero no por nuestra propia fortaleza y voluntad.

Nada ni nadie nos puede separar del amor Cristo. Acuérdense de que nadie es más grande que Nuestro Dios.”

Después de una breve pausa, el Padre cargó el relicario con el Santísimo Sacramento dentro de toda la iglesia, y dijo a los presentes que miraran a Jesús Sacramentado a los ojos “Porque el Señor está sanando a muchos esta noche,” dijo el Padre al caminar alrededor de todas las bancas. La asamblea estuvo compuesta de participantes de diversas parroquias en Charlotte como San Gabriel, Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, y algunos de hasta Nuestra Señora de Lourdes en Monroe.

Y el Señor de los Señores no defraudó a los fieles. Al terminar la procesión del Santísimo, el Padre invitó a los presentes que fueron sanados esa noche a dar su testimonio. Un hombre reportó haber sentido ser sanado de un cáncer linfático en el cuello; una mujer reportó haber

sentido una sanación en sus riñones y varias personas más reportaron sanaciones, no solo físicas, sino también espirituales.

“El Señor aumentó mi fe en Él esta noche, y me sanó espiritualmente de un dolor muy grande en mi corazón y en el corazón de mi hija,” dijo María Bessie Pérez frente a la asamblea. Otros, al concluir el servicio, expresaron agradecimiento simplemente por la mera presencia del carismático sacerdote.

“Estuvo muy bueno. Esto es lo que necesita el ‘Pueblo’: ¡Que vengan y le expliquen cómo funciona la cosa!” dijo ‘Pepe,’ de la Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción.

La noche del 29 de Octubre, más de 700 personas colmaron el Santuario de la Iglesia de San Gabriel, con esperanzas de escuchar más Buenas Noticias y recibir sanación y liberación durante la segunda parte de la visita del Padre Claudio en Charlotte.

Comentando acerca del sueño del Papa Francisco respecto a la Iglesia contemporánea, el Padre Claudio dijo que “El Papa quiere una Iglesia de mediadores, y no de intermediarios.” “Un mediador es alguien como Jesús que unifica a dos partes, a Dios y a los hombres.” “A diferencia de un intermediario que solo trabaja para su propio beneficio.” El sacerdote agregó, “Necesitamos una Iglesia

de los pobres para los pobres. Una Iglesia de mediadores en la cual los mediadores reciben la gratitud del corazón de los que no nos pueden pagar de vuelta.”

“Esta es una visión muy diferente de la Iglesia. Una visión que solo se puede entender de rodillas frente al Santísimo,” dijo el Padre Claudio. “Todo gran proyecto comienza frente al Santísimo.”

El Padre también agregó que la Iglesia actualmente está experimentando una “nueva primavera de la Nueva Evangelización” que prometió el Beato Papa Juan Pablo II en 1997 con su encíclica acerca del advenimiento del Nuevo Milenio del año 2000. “Este Papa Francisco es un regalo de Dios como parte de la nueva primavera en la Iglesia,” dijo él.

Durante su predicación, el Padre reflexionó sobre el pasaje de la mujer adultera en el Evangelio de Juan 8:4-11.

“Jesús nos dice a todos esta noche como a la mujer del Evangelio, ‘Yo tampoco te condeno.’” Con el acompañamiento de alabanza de Jorge Morel y su Banda cantando, “Nadie es más grande que mi Dios” el sacerdote cargo el Santísimo por todo el santuario bendiciendo a los presentes y repitiendo constantemente, ‘Yo tampoco te condeno.’

Pero, de la misma manera que Jesús guardó el mejor vino para el último en las Bodas de Caná, el Padre Claudio terminó el servicio con la celebración de la Santa Misa, y dio su testimonio de “No se Olviden del Cielo” durante su homilía para cerrar con broche de oro.

Cuenta el Padre Claudio que estando en el estado de Nueva Jersey durante una misión que hizo en el 2010, le dio un ataque cardiaco estando en casa de una familia que lo hospedaba en ese entonces. Dijo el Padre, “Me acuerdo estar en la camilla dentro de la ambulancia. Todo sucedió como en las películas: El ruido de las sirenas, la velocidad de la ambulancia, el paramédico preguntándome cuanto dolor tenía… Con el Rosario en la mano, miro hacia mi derecha y estaba la presencia refrescante de la Virgen María.” “El único problema es que se me apareció en la parte que decía, ‘ahora y en la hora de nuestra muerte,’” dijo a la congregación sonriendo.

“Después miro a los pies de la camilla y está el Señor con la cabeza baja, y un instante después estoy en un lugar sin ruido ni nada; solo Jesús y yo.” El Padre Claudio describe ese lugar como “La casa donde yo vivía, donde yo pertenecía. Había una paz indescriptible, y no había ni pasado, ni futuro, sino un presente eterno.” “También sentí fuertemente la Paternidad de Dios, y que yo pertenecía en la Casa del Padre.”

Describiendo su encuentro frente a frente con Jesús, el sacerdote dijo, “Entonces el Señor me mostró diferentes etapas de mi vida en algo que parecía como un i-phone celestial.” “Y lo único que yo le decía era ‘Señor, ¿ya es la hora?’” Sin embargo, Jesús no le dijo una palabra, y solo le seguía mostrando facetas de su vida, “No me mostró mis pecados, pero si me mostró personas en mi vida que tenía que perdonar, y después que le pregunté AMIGO, SEE page 15

November 8, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

15

AMIGO: FROM PAGE 14

dos veces más que si era ‘mi hora,’ Él solo bajó la cabeza, y me despierto otra vez en la ambulancia con el ruido y la confusión.”

“Hermanos y hermanas, no se olviden del Cielo.” “El Cielo es real, y todo lo que la Iglesia dice del Cielo, todo lo que la Biblia dice del Cielo es verdad,” recordó el Padre Claudio a la asamblea. El sacerdote concluyó su testimonio diciendo que el obtener el Cielo es lo más importante en la vida cristiana, y el único propósito de nuestra vida terrenal. “Vivimos la vida preocupándonos por tener un cuerpo perfecto, un trabajo perfecto, una esposa o esposo perfecto, cuando todo eso es secundario.” “Lo más importante en esta vida es el aprender a amar y a perdonar como Dios nos ama y nos perdona a nosotros.” “Así, y solo así, podremos construir una vida que nos llevará al Paraíso,” dijo el Padre Claudio.

“No se olviden del Cielo.”

More online At www.catholicnewsherald.com: Read the English version of this story At www.adoremosalquevive.com: Y vea la página web de la comunidad “Adoremos al Que Vive” At www.facebook.com/diocesis. nueva.oran Para ver la página de Facebook de la Diócesis de la Nueva Orán en Salta, Argentina donde se encuentra la comunidad del Padre Claudio

Fotos de Rico De Silva | Catholic News Herald

¡Feliz Día de la Raza!

GASTONIA — Pareja de niños bailando música folklórica de su país durante la “Noche de la Hispanidad” en la Parroquia de San Miguel, en Gastonia el sábado, 26 de Octubre. Niña luciendo su pollera costarricense durante la danza folklórica de su país en la “Noche de la Hispanidad.”

Principal - Christ the King Catholic High School Huntersville, North Carolina The Diocese of Charlotte in Western North Carolina is seeking a loyal and practicing Catholic with the necessary spiritual and intellectual formation as well as academic credentials and experience to be the Principal of Christ the King Catholic High School in Huntersville, NC. This is a relatively new high school that will graduate its first class in June of 2015.

The candidate must be strongly committed to and enthusiastic about Catholic Schools and their mission; a mission-driven, visionary, energetic, innovative, confident and collaborative leader who inspires cooperation and must respect, appreciate, and uphold the teachings, principles, legislation, policies and traditions of the Roman Catholic Church in both word and example. A Master’s degree in educational administration , or a Master’s degree in education with appropriate credits in administration is required. Experience as a principal or assistant principal at the high school level is also required. Experience in implementation of advanced use of technology in a high school setting is preferred.

For more information and consideration, please send resume and a cover letter with salary requirements to: Mrs. Jeannie Pierce or catholicschools@charlottediocese.org 1123 South Church Street Phone: 704-370-3244 Charlotte, NC 28203 Applications accepted through December 15, 2013

Challenging the mind nourishing the spirit Bishop McGuinness is a college prep, Catholic High School.

We embrace diversity and invite students of all faiths and economic backgrounds to attend. We strive to prepare students in a values-centered environment which speaks to the best in Catholic education.

1725 NC Hwy 66S, Kernersville, NC 27284 336.564.1010 www.bmhs.us

Our schools 16

catholicnewsherald.com | November 8, 2013 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Frances Byungura, Our Lady of Grace School’s student council president; Kurt Telford, principal; Monsignor Mauricio West, vicar general and chancellor of the Diocese of Charlotte; and Father Eric Kowalski, pastor, break ground on the new school building.

Photos provided by Karen L. Hornfeck

Our Lady of Grace Parish breaks ground for new school building Karen L. Hornfeck Special to the Catholic News Herald

GREENSBORO — On a crisp fall morning Oct. 28, more than 400 people gathered at Our Lady of Grace School to kick off construction of a new school building with prayers of thanksgiving and praise.

“The building process at Our Lady of Grace has been a group effort of so many for several years, “ said Father Eric Kowalski, pastor. “We are so thankful to God for this opportunity for our parish and we are so very grateful to our parishioners and school families to never stopped believing in that we could dream big and make that dream a reality.”

Father Kowalski started the ceremony by dedicating the building with prayer. Principal Kurt Telford then asked student council members to bring up a bucket of river stones. Each student and teacher put their name on a stone and a one-word prayer for the new school. All those attending the ceremony were also given an opportunity to put their name and a prayer on a stone. Monsignor Mauricio West, vicar general and chancellor of the Diocese of Charlotte, blessed the stones, which will be mixed into the foundation of the building.

“We want to stay grounded in what our purpose is at OLG: to be faithful, to educate all children, to teach as Jesus taught,” Telford said. “These stones symbolize our dedication to these goals and also that each person here today will always be a part of our school.”

After the dedication, Father Kowalski, Monsignor West, Telford and student council president Frances Byungura symbolically broke the ground on the building project.

Many in the crowd found the morning very moving.

“I have to confess that I had tears in my eyes,” said OLG parent Suzanne Lininger. “To look out into this crowd of people and see older people who have been a part of this

parish for many years, our pre-kindergarten students, parents with babies in their arms and school alumni – there was just an overwhelming feeling of love and gratitude for this wonderful community. I am so excited about what the future holds!”

Our Lady of Grace Parish and School is located in the heart of Greensboro’s historic Sunset Hills neighborhood.

The original church was built by Julian Price in memory of his wife Ethel Clay Price in 1952. That same year, the original school building was also built and the school opened its doors to students in January 1953. Since that date, more than 25,000 students have been educated at Our Lady of Grace School.

The new school building, part of a $4.575 million capital campaign, was designed by J. Hyatt Hammond with construction by Landmark Construction. The three-story school building will be comprised of 16 state-of-the-art classrooms and is scheduled for completion in July 2014.

Once the school building has been completed, the original classroom building, which was constructed in the same Gothic style as the church, will be renovated into a family life center. Church offices, parish meeting spaces and a special events room will round out the facility and offer much-needed space for the parish community to come together.

“Our building project is the result of a tremendous commitment of prayer, time, talent and resources of both our school and church community,” noted Father Kowalski. “The Diocese of Charlotte, of which we are a part, has also been a fundamental partner in assisting us in bringing this project to fruition.”

“We are so excited to move the parish into the future with this new campus, which will offer us all new opportunities to learn and grow in our faith together,” he added. “God is truly good!”

Students and others put their names on individual rocks along with a one-word prayer for the new school. Rocks were blessed by Monsignor West and then mixed into the school’s foundation.

November 8, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

17

David Exum | Catholic News Herald

After eight games this season, Charlotte Catholic’s senior running back Elijah Hood has an amazing 1,667 yards rushing and 22 touchdowns.

Following in the footsteps of his father Vee Hood and his uncle Boo Hood, both standout running backs at Charlotte Catholic in the late 1980s, Hood credits his success to his family’s devotion to their Catholic faith.

Football standout Hood eyes last days at Charlotte Catholic before early graduation ‘I’m trying to enjoy this while I’ve got it’ David Exum Correspondent

CHARLOTTE — Charlotte Catholic High School senior running back Elijah Hood hasn’t let his greatness on the gridiron affect him one bit.

Nationally ranked as the one of the top high school football players in the country and one of the top players in North Carolina, teachers and coaches alike say Hood is one of the most selfless students ever to grace the halls at Charlotte Catholic.

Dean of Students Randy Belk, who also works as the football team’s offensive coordinator under longtime head coach Jim Oddo, says Hood doesn’t care about personal records or achievements. Instead, Hood cares deeply about helping the Cougars win and seeing the success of his teammates.

“He is a kid that never asked for a number of carries and he never complained, whether he had three carries in a game or 30,” says Belk. “He’s happy to see other (players) succeed and I’m going to miss that part about him.”

Following in the footsteps of his father Vee Hood and his uncle Boo Hood, both standout running backs at Charlotte Catholic in the late 1980s, Hood credits his success to his family’s devotion to their Catholic faith.

“I really think it has a lot to do with being a part of this Catholic community,” says Hood, who also attended Holy Trinity Catholic Middle School in Charlotte and also played football for the Bulldogs. “I’ve been in this program since sixth grade and I’ve been taught to be humble and do your work. This education has instilled certain values in me and that’s the result you get when you listen to what people say. You take their advice and

good things happen.”

Standing on the practice field a few days before the Cougars defeated West Mecklenburg, 29-13, in a pivotal conference game Oct. 25, Hood spoke of how he’s doing all he can to enjoy his final few months at Charlotte Catholic before graduation early in January.

“I’m trying to enjoy this while I’ve got it,” Hood says.

“I know I’m not going to be here much longer and I’m trying to soak up as much as my high school experience as possible. I want to enjoy playing in these big games and enjoying the time I have left with my friends.”

In the game against West Mecklenburg, Hood rushed for 266 yards and scored three touchdowns. He also played nearly the entire game on offense and defense. Hood is also a superb linebacker and in the second quarter of the game, with the scored tied 7-7, he chased down running back Shaun Wilson and made an incredible touchdownsaving tackle.

“I’m a linebacker in a running back’s body,” laughs Hood. “I was able to get a good tackle and (keep) them from getting a touchdown. I think it was a big momentum gainer. I love getting those hits and just clocking guys. I love playing both offense and defense. I just thank God and thank my team for giving me this opportunity.”

Charlotte Catholic remains undefeated at 5-0 this season in the SoMeck 8 4A conference and 7-2 overall. The Cougars have won 30 straight conference games dating to 2009.

After eight games this season, Hood has an amazing 1,667 yards rushing and 22 touchdowns. In his junior year in 2013, Hood amassed 3,309 yards rushing and had 48 touchdowns.

Ranked as one of the top 50 high school players in the country by ESPN.com, the 6-foot, 220-pound Hood would rather focus on the final days of his high school education at Charlotte Catholic, instead of his personal contributions.

“This has really been special for me because my uncle and my father both played here and were coached by Coach Oddo,” Hood says. “It’s pretty great to be a part of that legacy and to be able to come in here and to do such a

good job for this program and this school.”

Hood is no stranger to the media spotlight, and both Belk and Oddo say they are proud of the way he handles himself with the numerous media outlets that visit the school looking to get a glimpse of #34.

Hood made national headlines in August after he opted not to play for the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame, instead committing to play for the University of North Carolina Tar Heels. Hood was also recruited by some of the elite college football teams in the country including Georgia, Michigan, Ohio State, Stanford and Southern California.

“I really want to go in and try to help (UNC) Coach (Larry) Fedora turn around that program,” Hood says.

Oddo says he’s had great players during his 39-year tenure as head coach at Charlotte Catholic, but none as athletic as Hood.

“He’s fast enough that when he gets out into the secondary, he’s gone,” Oddo says. “He’s the best player I’ve ever had, and you don’t get a kid like this every year.

We’ve been blessed to have great players at that position.

He does all his academic work and gets that all in order, and nobody works harder. He’s always in the weight room, working his butt off. He’s got a great sense of humor, a great sense of humility, and he really enjoys the game.”

Oddo also says he doesn’t like to take advantage of Hood’s talents and run the score up against opponents when a game gets out of hand. Instead, he puts his second and third string players into the game, so they can gain experience.

For example, in a recent game against Harding Academy, in which the Cougars won 41-14, Hood had just three carries as Charlotte Catholic jumped out to a commanding 31-6 lead at halftime.

“In the second half, I just wanted to see if we could get a first down. He broke for 80 yards and that was it,” Oddo recalls. “He didn’t play the rest of the game. He could have had 400 to 500 yards that game, but we’re not about statistics. I’m not into running the score up and making looking the other team look bad. It’s not good for their kids or our kids.”

18

catholicnewsherald.com | November 8, 2013 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Celebrating All Saints and All Souls

GREENSBORO — Students and teachers alike got into their costumes for Halloween festivities Oct. 31 at St. Pius X School in Greensboro. Pictured are fifth-grade students and first-grade teachers.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY Jean Navarro

GREENSBORO — Students, teachers and parents at Our Lady of Grace School recently put on costumes and participated in their Halloween parade, an annual tradition for more than 30 years. Pictured are OLG pre-kindergarten students who trick-ortreated around the school before the parade.

Photo provided by Karen L. Hornfeck

Alexandra Vilchez | Catholic News Herald

CHARLOTTE — Students from the Spanish Club at Our Lady of the Assumption School in Charlotte participated in the annual “Día de los Muertos” (“Day of the Dead”) celebration Oct. 27 at the Levine Museum of the New South and coordinated by the Latin American Coalition. Members of the club created an “altar” honoring Hispanic celebrities who have died. They made sugar skulls (“calaveras”), and learned about this Mexican tradition that focuses on gathering of family and friends to pray for the deceased on Nov. 1 and 2.

ELKIN — Youth at St. Stephen Mission in Elkin celebrated All Saints Day by dressing as their patron or favorite saints.

The celebration included sharing the story of their saint, making crafts and bookmarks, and toasting s’mores with their parents.

Photo provided by Sister Janis McQuade, SSJ

Photo provided by Lara Davenport

WINSTON-SALEM — This year’s kindergarten once again led Our Lady of Mercy School’s annual All Saints liturgy, dressed as their patron saints. The kindergartners’ eighth-grade buddies researched each saint and during a special buddy luncheon, presented the kindergartner with a special box containing a handmade picture book about their saint and sacramentals pertaining to that saint. “It’s a wonderful way for the eighth-graders to pass on important parts of our faith to the little ones,” said Erin Read, the eighth-grade religion teacher.

Photo provided by Jean Judge

SHELBY — Kindergartners in faith formation class at St. Mary Help of Christians Parish in Shelby celebrated All Saints Day last week.

November 8, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

19

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief Come learn about MACS programs at upcoming meeting CHARLOTTE — The School Board for Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools will host a presentation on “Programs Offered At MACS” at its board meeting starting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 12, at St. Matthew Church in Charlotte.

The meeting will be held in the Banquet Room of the New Life Center. Everyone is welcome to attend and get an insight into the student health program at MACS, MACS school lunch program, the after school enrichment program, MACS summer camps, and MACS special needs programs. For details, email catholicschools@ charlottediocese.org.

St. Michael students walk to school OLM students lead ‘parade of nations’ WINSTON-SALEM — Fourth-graders at Our Lady of Mercy School recently held their annual country festival, leading a parade in the halls dressed in ethnic costumes and waving their chosen country’s flag. The Parade of Nations was followed by presentations to parents and other students in the gym and concluded in a literal smorgasbord made up of ethnic foods, prepared and brought in by the students and their families to share. The countries represented this year were China, Australia, Costa Rica, Brazil, Sweden, Columbia, France, Italy, South Africa, Japan, Ireland, Kenya, Venezuela, South Korea and Poland.

St. Gabriel students take part in own CROP Hunger Walk CHARLOTTE — For the past five years students at St. Gabriel School have walked the Friday before the Charlotte CROP Hunger Walk event in their own school-wide mini CROP Hunger Walk. The students gather pledges to raise money for the poor in Charlotte and around the world, then walk for one hour with their classmates around the school’s track.

Pictured are a group of first-graders holding a banner for this year’s CROP Walk.

GASTONIA — St. Michael School recently held its annual “Walk to School” day as part of the celebration of International Walk to School Day. Most of the Gastonia-area students are driven to school each day, but the walk from a local parent’s home gives them an understanding of what it feels life for those who walk every day and reinforces the safety awareness they must have when walking along the streets. Gaston County Health and Human Services Director Christopher Dobbins and Division Director of Public Health Stephen Eaton joined the group for the walk.

— Pat Burr and Reine Smirz

— Michele Snoke

— Lara Davenport

OLG students receive Elijah Cup OLA students learn a science lesson on field trip

GREENSBORO — Our Lady of Grace School’s fifth-graders were the first class at the school to receive the Elijah Cup at a recent school Mass. Students keep the cup in their class as a reminder to pray for vocations. OLG’s cup was a given in memory of beloved OLG teacher Joan Regan, who passed away two years ago.

CHARLOTTE — Middle school students from Our Lady of the Assumption School recently took their first field trip of the school year to the U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte. They spent the first half of the day rotating among various centers to encourage team building among the students and teachers.

After a hearty lunch, the students participated in stations that promoted hands-on learning for their science lesson on forces in motion.

— Karen L. Hornfeck

Rescue dog visits OLG class GREENSBORO — Our Lady of Grace School’s first-graders recently had a visit from therapy dog Ekko, Ekko’s trainer Pam Gaynor and local veternarian (and OLG parent) Dr. Karyn Waterman. Students learned about the training that Ekko has undergone to visit hospice locations and nursing homes. Waterman also talked about her work as a veterinarian.

— Tammy Harris

— Karen L. Hornfeck

SPX students pitch in for CROP Hunger Walk

HENDERSONVILLE — The boys soccer team at Immaculata School recently won the Western North Carolina Christian Middle School Conference title after defeating the Veritas Warriors in an exciting 2-1 win. Led by coaches Tony Campano, Mark Sullivant and Matt Carter, the boys played an amazing season with eight wins, one tie and one loss. Jackson Carter and Michael Rusnak were chosen by coaches from the other conference teams as All Conference Players.

GREENSBORO — St. Pius X School student council members recently loaded a Greensboro Urban Ministry truck with nonperishable food items the student body had collected during the week leading up to the St. Pius X CROP Hunger Walk. The school held its school-wide mini CROP Hunger Walk on Oct. 18.

— Anne W. Knapke

BMHS b’ball coach nominated for national coaching award

SPX students learn about the Holocaust GREENSBORO — On Oct. 22, St. Pius X School welcomed Judy Magier, who shared with eighth-grade students her father’s experience as a Holocaust survivor, after the students completed a cross-curricular study of the effects of World War II and the Holocaust on society.

— Anne W. Knapke

KERNERSVILLE — Brian Robinson, the head girls basketball coach at Bishop McGuinness High School, is a nominee for the National Federation of High Schools Coaching Award for Basketball for the state of North Carolina.

Robinson has led Bishop McGuinness to eight straight state titles, which is the record for consecutive state championships in the state.

— Jeff Stoller

Immaculata boys soccer team wins conference title

— Tina Okpych

St. Leo students don ‘tin caps’ WINSTON-SALEM — Pre-kindergartners at St. Leo School in Winston-Salem recently learned about Johnny Appleseed. They are pictured above in “tin caps” that they made during the lesson.

— Donna Birkel

Holy Trinity girls volleyball team named conference champs CHARLOTTE — Holy Trinity Middle School’s girls volleyball team recently cinched the 2013 conference championship after a 2-1 win over Lake Norman Charter. The Bulldogs, coached

by Sarah Garcia and Rachel Rodriguez, finished 11-1 for the season.

— Casey Corser

20

catholicnewsherald.com | November 8, 2013 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Visit Our Fall Open Houses At Our Outstanding High Schools

November 16th 10:00 am - 12:00pm

Charlotte Catholic High School

7702 Pineville-Matthew Rd. Charlotte, NC

A Catholic High School tradition since 1955

November 23rd 10:00 am - 12:00pm

PhotoS provided by Robin Fisher and Bill Washington | Catholic News Herald

Living rosaries held in Salisbury, Greensboro

2011 Crusader Way Huntersville, NC

SALISBURY — On Oct. 18 more than 230 students from Sacred Heart School took part in the fourth annual Living Rosary, joined by their teachers, parents and parishioners. Lined up into the shape of a beaded rosary, the older students took turns leading the prayers while the younger students released balloons to symbolize the prayers going to heaven. Also pictured are Father Jason Barone, parochial vicar of Sacred Heart Church, and seminarian David McCanless. This year’s Living Rosary was organized by Nanette Dillon.

Visit our beautiful new campus Graduating our 1st Senior Class in 2015

Admissions: (704) 370-3273

MACS admits students of any race, color, sex, religion and national or ethnic origin.

For more information and directions visit www.MACSOpenHouses.com

Photo provided by Jean Navarro

GREENSBORO — Students at St. Pius X School also recently participated in a Living Rosary, praying for all those hungry and in need throughout Greensboro. Throughout the week leading up to the Living Rosary, students collected soup and then donated it to the Greensboro Urban Ministry following the prayer service.

Mix

November 8, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

For the latest movie reviews: catholicnewsherald.com

In theaters

Former presidential candidate visits Charlotte Promotes latest venture ‘The Christmas Candle,’ debuting Nov. 22 SueAnn Howell Senior reporter

‘Ender’s Game’ Enlightened and well-wrought science-fiction movie, based on the prescient 1985 book of the same name, about a 12-year-old (Asa Butterfield) chosen to lead Earth’s military forces against an alien race that 50 years earlier tried to colonize the planet, resulting in the deaths of millions. Mentored by a bellicose colonel (Harrison Ford) and the hero of the first invasion (Ben Kingsley), the boy possesses both compassion and strong tactical skills. Director and screenwriter Gavin Hood highlights a salubrious message about the moral pitfalls of war and deploys elegant special effects to dramatize the virtual nature of how it is conducted in the near future. Scenes of fighting and bullying behavior among teenagers, several classroom slurs, some scary imagery, some mild innuendo.

CNS: A-II (adults and adolescents), MPAA: PG-13

‘Free Birds’ Two rogue turkeys travel back in time to change the “main course” of American history in this 3-D animated comedy, directed and co-written by Jimmy Hayward. The president of the United States (voice of Hayward) pardons a Thanksgiving turkey (voice of Owen Wilson), who enjoys a luxurious life at Camp David until a fellow bird (voice of Woody Harrelson) drafts him for a mission of the “Turkey Freedom Front.” They hijack a time machine and travel back to the first Thanksgiving in 1621 with one goal: Keep turkey off the dinner menu. There’s something for every age in this holiday-themed package, including cute-as-a-button characters, clever humor, a sendup of science fiction, a little (superficial) slice of American history, and a good message about looking out for each other. A few mildly perilous situations, some rude humor.

CNS: A-I (general patronage), MPAA: PG

Additional reviews: n ‘Last Vegas’: CNS: A-III (adults), MPAA: PG-13 n ‘The Counselor’: CNS: O (morally offensive), MPAA: R n ‘Jackass Presents: Bad Grandpa’: CNS: O(morally offensive), MPAA: R

CHARLOTTE — Most Americans recognize Rick Santorum as man involved in politics from a young age. An attorney by trade, he was elected to Congress at 32, ran for a Senate seat at 36 and threw his hat in the ring as a GOP presidential candidate in 2012 at 54.

Santorum, a husband and father of seven, lives his Catholic faith in his political life and in his latest venture as CEO of EchoLight Studios. He took the helm of the company which finances, produces, markets and distributes family friendly, faith-based films last June.

He visited the Diocese of Charlotte Pastoral Center Oct. 15 to talk about EchoLight’s latest release, “The Candle Movie,” based on a book by bestselling author Max Lucado and set to hit more than 400 theaters Nov. 22.

“A Christmas movie releasing for the holidays is a unique event, as there have been very few in recent years,” Santorum said. “This film hearkens back to the heartwarming and uplifting movies of yesteryear.

The story inspires renewed hope in the miracle of Christmas and illustrates that this holiday is not just about reindeer and receiving gifts. “‘The Christmas Candle’ will remind audiences of the spirit and sense of wonder of the season – something that is often lost in our modern era.”

In the promotional press release for the film, Lucado said, “This tale about a 19th century village of simple people in the English Cotswolds in need of a miracle has lifted spirits for seven Christmases and now thanks to producer Tom Newman and EchoLight Studios, the Candle story will touch a whole new generation.”

“I’m very excited about this movie,” Santorum added. “The wonderful thing about this film is that it takes you through the four Sundays of Advent. The

About the movie “The Christmas Candle” stars Hans Matheson (“Clash of the Titans,” “Sherlock Holmes”), Samantha Barks (“Les Miserables”), Lesley Manville (Disney’s “A Christmas Carol”), Sylvester McCoy (“The Hobbit Trilogy,” “Doctor Who”), John Hannah (“The Mummy,” “Four Weddings and a Funeral”), Barbara Flynn (“Miss Potter”) and James Cosmo (“Game of Thrones,” “Braveheart”). Singer Susan Boyle makes her film debut. Directed

by John Stephenson.

whole movie centers around the anticipation of the birth of Christ and how the community prepares for His birth.”

He said he is confident this film will bring the whole Body of Christ together – Catholics and Protestants alike. And Santorum is proud that this movie talks about the “miracle that is Christmas.”

Audiences from all walks of life will recognize many of the actors in the film: singer Susan Boyle in her film debut, Samantha Barks of “Les Miserables” fame and Sylvester McCoy of “The Hobbit Trilogy,” just to name a few.

As for future political aspirations, Santorum said he remains interested.

“I always say I am just walking the path that God is leading me on,” Santorum said. “I don’t see anything inconsistent with what I am doing to running again.

In fact, I think it’s very consistent with running again, as I put it, ‘fighting on a different front.’

“I’m still very active in politics. In speaking, commenting, doing shows. I’m very concerned about where our country is going. This is certainly no time to back away. I’m open to looking at the possibility of running again.”

At www.TheChristmasCandleMovie.com: Get details and theater locations debuting the film Nov. 22

TAN Books acquires children’s book publisher CHARLOTTE — TAN Books, a division of Saint Benedict Press of Charlotte, recently acquired Neumann Press, a Minnesota publisher of classic Catholic titles for children and adults.

The acquisition more than triples TAN’s children’s titles and provides a comprehensive homeschooling line. Popular books and sets acquired in the transaction include “Angel Food for Boys and Girls,” the “Saints and Friendly Beasts” series, and “American Cardinal Readers.”

“In its 32 years of operation, Neumann Press and its late founder, Dennis McCoy, preserved hundreds of classic Catholic titles, treating them with the care and craftsmanship they richly deserve,” said Conor Gallagher, vice president of publishing for TAN Books, in a press release Oct. 23. “It is an honor to continue the work of Dennis and the McCoy family, keep Neumann Press alive, and bring its great selection of Catholic classics to a wider audience than ever.”

“Neumann Press is known and loved by thousands of families for preserving so many treasures of Catholic culture, especially vintage children’s books and homeschooling resources,” added Rick Rotondi, vice president of new business development. “It is a privilege to be entrusted with this legacy – and together

with TAN’s resellers and distributors we will greatly increase the availability of Neumann Press titles.”

Established in 1981, Neumann Press published more than 200 titles and served more than 46,000 customers under McCoy’s leadership. When he passed away April 22, the press closed its doors. TAN’s acquisition has opened the doors once again.

TAN is preserving the Neumann Press name as an imprint and maintaining the Neumann Press website.

In addition, Neumann Press titles will be added to TAN’s own direct mail catalogs and consumer website. TAN will reissue 22 Neumann Press titles before Christmas and more than 70 titles before the end of the year, most in the original hardcover bindings.

“Our family is so pleased that TAN will be continuing the work of my husband and restoring the availability of Neumann Press titles,” said McCoy’s wife Dorothy McCoy. “Neumann Press titles have been a valuable resource for Catholic families for over 30 years. After meeting with Mr. Gallagher and Mr. Rotondi, we are confident that under TAN’s leadership and with TAN’s distribution and resources, these titles will continue to change many lives.”

— Brian Kennelly

21

On TV n Saturday, Nov. 9, 5 p.m.

(EWTN) “Sabeth: Blessed Elizabeth of the Trinity.”

Carmelite nun and noted spiritual director, Elizabeth of the Trinity, left a legacy of outstanding spiritual guidance in her letters and retreat guides; this documentary explores the spirituality revealed in her writings. n Sunday, Nov. 10, 1:30 p.m.

(EWTN) “In Concert: Stabat Mater.” The Passion of Christ and the grief of the Virgin Mary are beautifully evoked in this musical performance of Giovanni Battista Pergolesi’s “Stabat Mater,” from All Saint’s Church in Aldwingle, England. n Monday, Nov. 11, 10:15 a.m.-1 p.m. (EWTN) “USCCB Fall General Assembly.” The morning session of the first day of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ annual fall general assembly, broadcast live from Baltimore. Coverage continues Monday, Nov. 11, 2-5 p.m. and Tuesday, Nov. 12, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 2-5 p.m. n Monday, Nov. 11, 9-11 p.m. (PBS) “JFK” First episode of a two-part “American Experience” presentation that takes a fresh look at the first – and, so far, only – Catholic to hold the nation’s top post. This installment covers President John F. Kennedy’s life from his privileged birth through his marriage to Jacqueline Bouvier and on to his election as chief executive.

The series concludes Tuesday, Nov. 12, 9-11 p.m. n Friday, Nov. 15, 9 p.m.-midnight (PBS) “Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Oklahoma!” This special chronicles a revival of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s landmark 1943 musical in a staging directed by Trevor Nunn and starring Hugh Jackman. Part of the series “Great Performances.” n Saturday, Nov. 16, 9-9:30 p.m. (EWTN) “Hours to Ordination.” Host Bob Dolan visits seminarians at the Pontifical North American College in Rome as they reveal their emotions and thoughts standing on the threshold of the priesthood.

Our nation 22

catholicnewsherald.com | November 8, 2013 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Elections, marriage and confirmation texts among bishops’ agenda items Catholic News Service

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Elections for a new president and vice president, a discussion and vote on a Spanish-language book of prayers at Mass, and a proposal to develop a statement on pornography are among the items awaiting the U.S. bishops when they gather in Baltimore for their annual fall assembly.

At their Nov. 11-14 meeting, the bishops also will hear a status report on their strategic/pastoral plan and vote on the final translations from the International Committee on English in the Liturgy on liturgical practices regarding marriage and confirmation.

As is customary, Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan of New York, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, and Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, apostolic nuncio to the United States, will address the assembly.

The bishops will elect the next president and vice president to lead the USCCB for the next three years from a slate of 10

candidates. Their term begins at the close of the meeting.

Candidates are: Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond of New Orleans; Archbishop Charles J. Chaput of Philadelphia; Bishop Blase J. Cupich of Spokane, Wash.; Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo of GalvestonHouston; Archbishop Jose H. Gomez of Los Angeles; Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Louisville, Ky., current USCCB vice president; Archbishop William E. Lori of Baltimore; Archbishop Dennis M. Schnurr of Cincinnati; Archbishop Allen H. Vigneron of Detroit; and Archbishop Thomas G. Wenski of Miami.

The bishops will vote on accepting the “Misal Romano” from Mexico as the base text for the Spanish-language missal used in U.S. parishes. The bishops’ conference of Mexico received approval from the Vatican, or “recognitio,” to use the text earlier this year. The U.S. version of the missal would be available by the end of 2014 or early 2015 under current USCCB plans.

Several adaptations in the missal also

will be voted on by the bishops.

Other liturgical changes on which the bishops were expected to vote govern the celebration of marriage and confirmation.

If adopted by the bishops, the order of celebrating marriage will be sent to the Vatican for “recognitio.” A second vote on four adaptations to the order also is planned.

The order of confirmation that will be considered is a retranslation from ICEL and would bring the order into accordance with the norms of “Liturgiam Authenticam” (“The Authentic Liturgy”), the 2001 document on liturgical translations from the Vatican’s Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments.

The bishops also will vote for chairmenelect of the committees on Canonical Affairs and Church Governance, Child and Youth Protection, Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs, Evangelization and Catechesis, and International Justice and Peace. They serve as chairmen-elect for

Medical professionals bear witness to God’s love, care, archbishop says Maria Luisa Torres Catholic News Service

LOS ANGELES — Health care professionals are “the quiet missionaries of the culture of life,” said Los Angeles Archbishop Jose H. Gomez, celebrant of the White Mass at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels.

The Archdiocese of Los Angeles and the Mission Doctors Association co-sponsored the Mass to honor all physicians, nurses and other health care professionals, and to honor a local doctor, nurse and religious order for extraordinary contributions to the health care field.

The White Mass is named for the distinctive white lab coats worn by many health care professionals.

“Your work is so important, so essential.

In your profession, you are called to be apostles of love,” Archbishop Gomez said. “In everything you do, you bear witness to God’s love and care, with every patient and every person you meet. In healing people’s bodies and minds you make it possible for their souls to encounter the living God.” He said the Oct. 27 Mass, celebrated at the cathedral for the first time, had special significance for him because his own father had been a physician. “(My father) always wanted me to be a doctor, but I guess God had other plans,” said the smiling archbishop.

Among those recognized at the Mass was Dr. Eli Ayoub, a physician at St. Francis Medical Center in Lynwood who was named national Catholic doctor of the year for 2013 by the Los Angeles-based Mission Doctors Association.

Every summer for the past 26 years, he has embarked on a personal and professional mission, traveling to the Middle East -primarily to his native Lebanon, at times venturing to Syria and Jordan -- to offer

much-needed free health care to the needy.

He sees up to 50 patients a day, working from morning until night, seven days a week.

But while he may grow weary by day’s end, Ayoub’s spirit remains strong and uplifted, because intertwining his work and his faith is simply a way of life for him.

“This is a great honor for my family and especially for St. Francis Hospital; it’s really very rewarding,” Ayoub told The Tidings, newspaper of the Los Angeles Archdiocese, after Mass. “My Catholic faith has enriched my life and career and has made me the doctor I am.”

Sister Kathleen Ann DuRoss, a Sister of St. Joseph of Carondelet, who is an RN, an educator and cardiac clinical nurse, was recognized for her “extraordinary commitment to Catholic health care.” She was unable to attend the Mass.

The Sister Servants of Mary, Ministers to the Sick, religious congregation was honored for the 85th anniversary of their members’ service in the Los Angeles area. The religious order operates Mary Health of the Sick Convalescent and Nursing Hospital in Newbury Park, and have a house of formation in Oxnard.

“Today we salute and honor you sisters as people who are gracious, gentle, dedicated to Christ, who bring a healing presence to all you serve,” said Holy Faith Sister Angela Hallahan, director of the archdiocesan Office of Health Affairs, as she called forward local representatives of the Sister Servants of Mary.

Near the end of Mass, Archbishop Gomez asked the scores of health care professionals in attendance to stand with their arms extended forward and their hands cupped in front of them to receive a special “blessing of the hands,” for strength, skill, sensitivity and steadiness in their day-to-day work with patients.

“Prosper the work of their hands, O Lord,” he prayed Archbishop Gomez.

Watch online At www.catholicnewsherald.com: Tune in to live coverage from the U.S. bishops’ meeting in Baltimore, 9:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11, and 8:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 12

one year, then begin a three-year term as chairmen of their respective committees in November 2014.

A new chairman will be elected to head the Committee on Catholic Education and will begin his term at the conclusion of the meeting. He will succeed Bishop Joseph P. McFadden of Harrisburg, Pa., who died May 2.

A vote on new members of the boards of the Catholic Legal Immigration Network Inc. and Catholic Relief Services is also on the agenda.

U.S. bishops say employment bill goes beyond barring discrimination Catholic News Service

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a letter to the U.S. senators, the chairmen of three U.S. bishops’ committees outlined their opposition to the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, emphasizing the bill to protect gay and lesbian workers goes beyond the scope of prohibiting unjust discrimination and “poses several problems.”

The bishops stressed that “all people are created in the image and likeness of God” and have “human dignity that must be acknowledged and respected by other persons and by law.”

They also noted that “the Catholic Church has consistently stood with workers in this country and continues to oppose unjust discrimination in the workplace. No one should be an object of scorn, hatred, or violence for any reason, including his or her sexual inclinations.”

They said that although the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops continues to “promote the dignity of both work and marriage and to oppose unjust discrimination on any grounds,” they “cannot support a bill, like ENDA, that does not justly advance the dignity of all workers and authentic non-discrimination.”

The letter, dated Oct. 31 and released Nov. 4, was signed by Bishop Stephen E. Blaire of Stockton, Calif., chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development; San Francisco Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone, chairman of the Subcommittee for the Promotion and Defense of Marriage; and Archbishop William E. Lori of Baltimore, chairman of the Ad Hoc

Committee for Religious Liberty.

The bishops said the bill lacked an exception for a “bona fide occupational qualification,” which they said exists for every other category of discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, except for race.

The legislation also “elevates ‘sexual orientation’ discrimination” to the same level as race discrimination, they said. It also does not make a distinction between homosexual inclination and conduct, which they said legally affirms and protects that conduct.

The bishops’ letter also said the bill supports the redefinition of marriage and would likely be “invoked by courts” to support the constitutional argument that same-sex “marriage” must be legal, and at the same time rejects the biological basis of gender by defining “gender identity” as something people may choose at variance with their biological sex.

They also said the bill “threatens religious liberty by punishing as discrimination the religious or moral disapproval of same-sex sexual conduct, while protecting only some religious employers.”

Religious entities that are exempt are all houses of worship and religious-sponsored hospitals and charities.

The full Senate is expected to vote on it in early November, and it is expected to pass. Whether the House will take up the measure was unclear because House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, opposes it.

The nondiscrimination bill has been introduced in every Congress since 1994 except the 109th.

November 8, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief Appeals court OKs admitting privileges for abortion doctors in Texas AUSTIN, Texas — A panel of judges on the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled Oct. 31 that a provision in a Texas law requiring abortion doctors to have admitting privileges at a nearby hospital can take effect. The panel made the ruling three days after Judge Lee Yeakel of the U.S. District Court in Austin said the provision was unconstitutional. The judges on the 5th Circuit said the provision can be carried out while a lawsuit challenging the abortion law’s restrictions moves forward. The U.S. Supreme Court, they said, has held that having “the incidental effect of making it more difficult or more expensive to procure an abortion cannot be enough to invalidate” a law that serves a valid purpose, “one not designed to strike at the right itself.” Yeakel argued that requiring admitting privileges would unreasonably limit a woman’s access to abortion. His decision was appealed by Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott, who argued that the state Legislature was well within its constitutional rights to require admitting privileges.

Cardinal to Congress: Disclose abortion coverage in health care law WASHINGTON, D.C. — Boston Cardinal Sean P. O’Malley urged members of Congress to support the Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act, a measure that would require health plans to disclose if they subsidize abortion coverage.

Cardinal O’Malley, chairman of the Committee on Pro-Life Activities for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, said the legislation would address one part of the abortion-related problem in the Affordable Care Act. In his Nov. 1 letter, the cardinal pointed out that under the federal health care law – unless state law requires otherwise – each insurer may choose whether to include coverage of elective abortions in health plans it offers on a state health exchange. He noted that if the insurer does cover such abortions, the overall health plan may still receive federal tax subsidies, which he said violates the policies governing all other federal health programs.

“In no other program may federal funds subsidize any part of a health plan that covers such abortions; and nowhere else does the federal government forbid insurers to allow an ‘opt-out’ from such coverage on conscience grounds,” he wrote.

The cardinal added that the health care law also has “unique secrecy provisions” protecting the insurer from having to answer if the plan covers abortions – except when it lists all services at the time the consumer is already enrolling in the plan. The insurer also does not have to reveal how much of the person’s premium goes into a separate abortion fund.

Four petitions on high court docket ask intervention on health law WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Supreme Court now has petitions asking it to review lower court rulings in three different lawsuits that challenge the federal government’s requirement for employer-sponsored health insurance to include contraceptive coverage. Three petitions filed in the last six weeks involve private, for-profit companies owned by Christians who object to their employee insurance funds being

used for treatments they consider immoral. A fourth case related to the Affordable Care Act is Liberty University’s appeal of the “employer mandate” to purchase government-defined health insurance for employees as applied to the Christian university. The soonest the court might decide to take any of the cases would be at its conferences of late November or early December.

Pittsburgh bishop appointed liaison to Catholic Charities USA WASHINGTON, D.C. — New York Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, has named Pittsburgh Bishop David A. Zubik as the new episcopal liaison to Catholic Charities USA. He succeeds Bishop Michael P. Driscoll of Boise, Idaho, who had held the post since 2002. Catholic Charities USA, which has its headquarters in the Washington suburb of Alexandria, Va., is the national office for local Catholic Charities agencies and affiliates in dioceses nationwide.

EWTN files 2nd lawsuit against HHS mandate; Ala. co-plaintiff MOBILE, Ala. — The Eternal Word Television Network, joined by the state of Alabama, has filed another lawsuit challenging the federal mandate requiring most employers to provide coverage of contraceptives, sterilizations and some abortion-inducing drugs free of charge.

The suit was filed Oct. 28 in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Alabama in Mobile. Last March, a U.S. District Court judge dismissed the Irondale-based television network’s lawsuit against the Health and Human Services mandate, which is part of the Affordable Care Act.

N.H. bishop supports bill to repeal death penalty

Prices are ALL-INCLUSIVE w/Airfare from anywhere in the continental USA

Italy/Switzerland: Apr. 5-17, Apr. 12-24, Apr. 19-May 1, Apr. 26-May 8 ...

Italy Regular: Apr. 5-13, Apr. 12-20, Apr. 19-27, Apr. 26-May 4, May 3-11...

Holy Land/Italy: Mar. 31-Apr. 13, Apr. 7-20, Apr. 14-27, Apr. 21-May 4 ...

Ireland/Scotland: Apr. 26-May 8, May 3-15, May 10-22, May 17-29 ...

Trips to Scotland, France, Ireland, Shrines of Europe and much more.. ranging from $3,599—$4,699 for 2014. www.proximotravel.com 415-729-9410 | 855-842-8001 email: anthony@proximotravel.com

Carmela A. Manago - Executive Director

Celebrate the canonization of Pope John Paul II with a pilgrimage to Poland led by Fr. Timothy Reid, May 12-22, 2014.

Tour highlights include sites associated with Pope John Paul II, St. Maximilian Kolbe and St. Faustina. Departures from Charlotte: $3495/person.

For more information call George’s International Tours: (800) 566-7499, or visit the St. Ann’s website: www.stanncharlotte.org

CCDOC.ORG

CONCORD, N.H. — Bishop Peter A. Libasci of Manchester declared his support of a bill in the state Legislature that would repeal the death penalty in New Hampshire.

“What we must call for in a civilized society is not retribution but restitution,” Bishop Libasci said Oct. 24. A new effort is underway to repeal the death penalty in the state, at least the third attempt to do so dating back to 2006.

Phila. seminary will retain, rebrand program PHILADELPHIA — A Philadelphia archdiocesan task force appointed last March to analyze the viability of St. Charles Borromeo Seminary’s college division has unanimously recommended that the division remain open.

The panel also called for a strategic plan to be implemented over the next three to five years to provide a sustainable house of formation and education for future generations of seminary students. St. Charles Seminary has two residential divisions on opposite sides of its campus in Philadelphia: the college division, which houses undergraduate seminarians; and the theology division, which houses the postgraduate theology seminarians. The Philadelphia Archdiocese also operates the Graduate School of Theology and Program of Catholic Studies at the seminary as well as the Department of Permanent Deacons and Vocation Office for Diocesan Priesthood.

In March, it was announced that the huge college division building, opened in 1928, will be closed and the seminary will be consolidated in the buildings that now house the theology division, with 45 of the seminary’s present 75 acres to be sold.

— Catholic News Service

23

Donate Your Car Make your car go the extra mile.

Donate your car to Catholic Charities to help fund local outreach programs in your community. All vehicle makes, models and years welcome. Truck, boat, RV and motorcycle donations accepted.

855.930.GIVE (4483) www.ccdoc.org/CARS Catholic Charities, formerly known as Catholic Social Services, relies on your direct support to help fund its various ministries.

Our world 24

catholicnewsherald.com | November 8, 2013 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Bishops asked to assess marriage, family life to prepare for synod Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY — Bishops around the world are being asked to take a realistic look at the situation of families under their care and at how effective pastoral and educational programs have been at promoting Church teaching on sexuality, marriage and family life.

The preparatory document for the extraordinary Synod of Bishops on the family, which will be held in October 2014, ends with 38 questions about how Church teaching is promoted, how well it is accepted and ways in which modern people and societies challenge the Catholic view of marriage and family.

Archbishop Lorenzo Baldisseri, general secretary of the synod, asked bishops to distribute the document and questionnaire “as widely as possible” to deaneries and parishes, summarize the responses and send them to the Vatican by the end of January.

Distributing an outline of the chosen topic and related questions, seeking responses from bishops, religious orders and interested Catholic groups is a normal part of the preparation for a synod. Archbishop Baldisseri, encouraging even wider consultation, did not specify how bishops should seek input.

The Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales put the questionnaire online in late October, leading to news stories about “polling” Catholics for their opinions and suggestions.

The extraordinary synod on “pastoral challenges to the family in the context of evangelization” was convoked by Pope Francis for Oct. 5-19 and will bring together presidents of bishops’ conferences, the heads of Eastern Catholic churches and the heads of Vatican offices to describe the

current situation and “to collect the bishops’ experiences and proposals in proclaiming and living the Gospel of the family in a credible manner,” the document said.

A second gathering, a world Synod of Bishops on the family, will be held in 2015 “to seek working guidelines in the pastoral care of the person and the family,” it said.

“Vast expectations exist concerning the decisions which are to be made pastorally regarding the family.”

Some people may believe changes in Church teaching are in store given Pope Francis’ emphasis on mercy, forgiveness and not judging others, and his specific comments on helping divorced and civilly remarried couples who cannot receive Communion. However, the document said, “the teaching of the faith on marriage is to be presented in an articulate and efficacious manner so that it might reach hearts and transform them in accordance with God’s will.”

Church teaching always has been clear that marriage is a lifelong bond between one man and one woman open to having and educating children, it said, and the synod’s goal will be “to communicate this message with greater incisiveness.”

The preparatory document specifically mentioned modern contributions to Church teaching, including the Second Vatican Council’s defense of the dignity of marriage and family, Pope Paul VI’s encyclical “Humanae Vitae” on fidelity and procreation in marriage, and Blessed John Paul II’s teaching on God’s plan for married love.

“The Church’s pastoral ministry,” it said, “finds inspiration in the truth of marriage viewed as part of the plan of God, who created man and woman and, in the fullness of time, revealed in Jesus the completeness of spousal love elevated to the level of sacrament.”

The questionnaire asks bishops to describe how people understand Church teaching, how their local churches and Catholic movements try to promote it, and what difficulties people face in accepting the teaching. They also ask bishops to estimate the percentage of local Catholics living together without being married, the percentage of those divorced and remarried, and the proportion of children and adolescents in their dioceses who are living in families in those situations.

They are also asked for suggestions about the advisability of simplifying Church annulment procedures.

The questionnaire surveys the bishops about the legal status of same-sex unions in their local area and Church efforts to defend traditional marriage, but also asks them what kind of “pastoral attention can be given to people who have chosen to live” in same-sex unions and, in places where they can adopt children, what can be done to transmit the faith to them.

Several questions focus on “Humanae Vitae” and Church teaching against the use of artificial contraception. The bishops are asked if people understand the teaching and know how to evaluate the morality of different methods of family planning. They also are asked if the question comes up in confessions and if they have suggestions for fostering “a more open attitude toward having children.”

Although preparations for the 2014 extraordinary Synod of Bishops on the family will include an assessment of Catholics’ attitudes toward relevant Church teachings, the synod’s work will be based on Catholic doctrine and not on current public opinion, officials said.

“Certainly the doctrine of the magisterium must be the basis of the common reasoning of the synod,” said Cardinal Peter Erdo of Esztergom-Budapest, Hungary, at a Vatican news conference Nov. 5. “It is not a question of public opinion.”

All Saints, All Souls feasts are time to renew hope, pope says Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service

CNS | Paul Haring

Pope Francis celebrates Mass at the Verano cemetery in Rome Nov. 1, the feast of All Saints.

VATICAN CITY — At the end of the feast of All Saints, just before the sun set, Pope Francis celebrated an outdoor Mass at Rome’s Verano cemetery and urged Christians to hang on to hope as they reflect on the promise that earthly life ends with eternal life in heaven.

In his homily at the evening Mass Nov. 1, Pope Francis set aside his prepared text, looked out at the thousands of people gathered between long lines of tombs and told them, “We reflect and think about our own future and about all those who have gone before us and are now with the Lord.”

“The Lord God, beauty, goodness, truth, tenderness, the fullness of love – all that awaits us,” the pope said. “And all those who preceded us and died in the Lord are there,” in heaven with God. Even the best of the saints were not saved by their good works, the pope said, but by the blood of Christ.

“God is the one who saves, He is the one who carries us like a father – at the end of our lives – to that heaven where our forebears are,” he said.

The feast day reading from the 7th chapter of the Book of Revelation described a multitude of people from every race and nation standing before God. They were dressed in white, the pope said, because they were “washed in the blood of the Lamb. We can enter into heaven only thanks to the blood of the lamb, the blood of Christ.”

“If today we are remembering these brothers and sisters of ours who lived before us and are now in heaven, they are there because they were washed in the blood of Christ. That is our hope, and this hope does not disappoint. If we live our lives with the Lord, he will never disappoint us.”

“We are children of God,” he said, and live in hope of one day seeing God as He is.

“On the feast of All Saints and before the Day of the Dead, it is important to think about hope.”

November 8, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief Vatican not worried about possibility U.S. monitored its calls VATICAN CITY — The Vatican has no evidence its calls were monitored by the U.S. National Security Agency and, even if they were, “we have no concerns about it,” the Vatican spokesman said. Asked about the possibility that the NSA’s electronic eavesdropping program had monitored Vatican calls, Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi told reporters Oct. 30: “We have no evidence of this.” The spokesman made his comments after the Italian newsweekly Panorama announced that its issue going on sale Oct. 31 would include a report that phone calls to and from the Vatican were among the 46 million calls in Italy allegedly monitored between Dec. 10, 2012, and Jan. 8, 2013. The magazine said it also is possible the eavesdropping continued for months and included calls made on the eve of the conclave that elected Pope Francis in March.

The NSA said in a statement the eavesdropping claims were false. The agency “does not target the Vatican,” said a statement from the NSA Public Affairs Office Oct. 30.

“Assertions that NSA has targeted the Vatican, published in Italy’s Panorama magazine, are not true.”

The magazine’s story was prepared in the midst of growing European coverage and anger over the NSA’s alleged call-monitoring program.

Pope Francis set to create first batch of cardinals VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis will create his first cardinals during a consistory Feb. 22, the feast of the Chair of St. Peter. The pope also is expected to use the occasion “to have a meeting with the cardinals for consultations” immediately before the ceremony, as retired Pope Benedict XVI did in the run-up to his consistories, said Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, Vatican spokesman. No specific dates were given for that meeting. The names of the

new cardinals usually are announced a little more than a month before the consistory itself.

Pope OKs leave of absence for German ‘luxury bishop’ VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis has authorized a leave of absence for a German bishop at the center of controversy over expenditures for his residence and diocesan center.

“A situation has been created in which Bishop Franz-Peter Tebartz-van Elst currently cannot exercise his episcopal ministry,” said a Vatican statement Oct. 23. Pope Francis, after being “continually, broadly and objectively informed” about the situation in the Diocese of Limburg, has authorized “a period of leave outside the diocese,” effective immediately, the statement said. A priest whom Bishop Tebartz-van Elst had selected as his vicar general will administer the diocese in his absence, the Vatican said.

The bishop has been at the center of controversy for months over the remodeling and building project in Limburg, which is estimated to have cost about $40 million.

German media have dubbed Bishop Tebartz-van Elst the “luxury bishop.”

Loving Hands of Charlotte We provide Home Service for Elderly to remain in their homes.

Company founded on belief that the best quality of life is in your own home.

Contact: Peggy Lindsay Agency Director / Owner 704-770-1394 St. Gabriel Parish Member

Licensed – Bonded - Insured

Christmas Craft Fair Sponsored by: St. Thomas Aquinas

Pope receives Aung San Suu Kyi VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis met Oct. 28 with Burmese opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner, Aung San Suu Kyi, for what the Vatican called a “rather significant encounter” between two leaders “fundamentally on the same wavelength” regarding nonviolence, democracy and “peaceful coexistence in today’s world. The Holy Father told me that emotions such as hatred and fear diminish life and the value of the person,” Suu Kyi told reporters after the 20-minute meeting. She said the pope also told her “we need to value love and understanding to improve the lives of people.”

The Vatican spokesman, Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, called Suu Kyi “one of the most significant personalities in Asia in the area of peace, democracy and peaceful coexistence” and a “symbol of non-violent commitment to democracy and peace.”

A military junta governing Myanmar, formerly Burma, kept Suu Kyi under house arrest for a total of 15 years between 1989 and 2010. An elected parliamentary government took power in 2011, and the following year, Suu Kyi was elected to parliament.

— Catholic News Service

25

Saturday, November 16 9am – 4pm Over 20 vendors including: Jewelry – Cosmetics Children‛s – Ornaments Crocheted & Knit Items Kitchen Goods and many others!

Columbiettes Aux. #10505 St. Thomas Aquinas Hall 1400 Suther Road Charlotte, NC 28213

FACILITIES MANAGER ST. ANN CATHOLIC CHURCH CHARLOTTE, NC St. Ann Catholic Church is looking for a part-time (20-25 hours/wk) Facilities Manager. Primary responsibilities include overseeing all maintenance to St. Ann’s Parish property and buildings, managing maintenance vendor relationships, scheduling events and managing rental contracts, and supervising a part-time Maintenance Coordinator.

Requirements Include: Knowledge of general maintenance Strong inter-personal and communication skills Proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel Good organizational and time management skills Please send resumes by November 30, 2013 to: St. Ann Catholic Church 3635 Park Road Charlotte, NC 28209 Or email to: stanncharlotte@charlottediocese.org.

ViewPoints 26

catholicnewsherald.com | November 8, 2013 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Fr. Dwight Longenecker

“

Allison Schumacher

What do we mean by ‘Real Presence’?

But I believe in the real presence!” said Doug, my Bible Christian friend. “Why do you Catholics refuse to admit me to Communion?”

“Whoa!” I said. “I’m delighted to hear that you believe in the Real Presence, but what do you actually mean by the term?”

“Well, I prefer to remain vague about the details,” said Doug. “I would only want to go as far as the Scriptures do, and St. Paul says in I Corinthians that the communion is ‘a sharing in the body of Christ.’ I don’t think you have to go further than that.”

We then sparred through John 6 and I Corinthians 11; but the conversation got me thinking about the term “real presence.” Doug was happy to use the term to describe what he felt about the Lord’s Supper at his independent Bible church. During my Anglican days I’d gotten used to the phrase “real presence.” Anglo-Catholics used the term all the time, and even many evangelical Anglicans seem fairly happy to use “real presence” to describe their view of the Eucharist. But then I remembered Methodists, Reformed ministers and other free evangelicals use the term as well. When I became a Catholic, I found lots of Catholics also using the term “real presence” to refer to their Eucharistic beliefs.

But what did everyone mean by the term? Could it be that God was using the term “real presence” as a kind of ecumenical bridge? Was it becoming a universally accepted term which was bringing nonCatholics into the fold of the true Church? I didn’t want to rule out this creative possibility, but I had my suspicions that “real presence” was, in fact, an elastic term that could mean almost anything and was therefore the enemy of true ecumenism.

So, for instance, a Bible Christian might mean, “I feel closer to Jesus at the Lord’s Supper.” At the same time a Methodist might mean, “When we gather together the presence of the Lord is real among us,” referring simply to our Lord’s promise that “Where two or three are gathered together, there am I in the midst.” A Lutheran might mean Christ’s risen presence is “with” or “beside” the bread and wine. An Anglican evangelical might say, “There is a real sense in which Christ is present as the church gathers – for the Church too is the Body of Christ.” At the same time, a Catholic would say there is a real, objective, abiding, spiritual presence of Christ when the Eucharist is celebrated.

One of the reasons the term “real presence” has become a flexible friend is because it has been lifted from its full context. Historically, theologians spoke of “the Real Presence of Christ’s Body and Blood in the sacrament of the altar.” But now it has been shortened to “the Real Presence.” Reference to the Body and Blood has been quietly dropped and even the name of Christ is omitted. As a result, for some people “real presence” has come to mean simply “the idea of the risen Lord” or “the spirit of Christ” or even just the “fellowship of the church.” In fact, the term “real presence” could mean just about anything to anybody. There are probably even some New Agers who talk about the “real presence” of the Christ within.

Another reason why the term is so conveniently vague is because “real presence” in most usage focuses on the abstract noun “presence,” not on

the Body and Blood of Christ. This implies that the “presence” is somehow separate from the sacrament.

The widespread use of this term is a sign that many non-Catholics are coming around to a higher view of the sacrament. This is cause for rejoicing.

But it is also a cause for concern because a lot of non-Catholics – on hearing Catholics use the term – quite innocently assume that Catholics believe the same thing they do. Thus a Bible Baptist might use the term “real presence” meaning he “feels closer to Jesus at communion” and hearing Catholics use the term concludes that Catholics believe the same thing about the Eucharist as he does. As a result – like my friend Doug – he can’t understand why he is not welcome to receive Communion at a Catholic Mass. So while the widespread use of the term “real presence” seems encouraging, it’s really misleading.

The ambiguous terminology causes confusion and encourages false ecumenism. But so far my theory was only a hunch.

I decided to do a bit of research. I travelled to Downside Abbey, the great Benedictine house in southwest England. After Mass, the librarian Father Daniel ushered me over to the library to learn more from their historical documents.

The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church defined “real presence” as an especially Anglican term which “emphasized the real presence of the body and blood of Christ at the Eucharist as contrasted with others that maintain that the Body and Blood are present only figuratively or symbolically.” The first edition of the dictionary quoted the 16th century English reformer Latimer to show his use of the term: “this same presence may be called most fitly a real presence, that is, a presence not feigned, but a true and faithful presence.”

That sounded pretty Catholic, but then it became a bit more complicated because the second edition of the same dictionary points out that the English Reformers only ever used the phrase with other expressions which made it a term for receptionism – that belief that the bread and wine only become the Body and Blood of Christ to those who receive it faithfully. So Latimer is quoted in the second edition more fully: “that same presence may be called a real presence because to the faithful believer there is a real or spiritual body of Christ.”

But Catholics believe in a corporeal, substantial presence of Christ in the Eucharist. The whole Christ is present, Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity. It is not just a spiritual presence. Furthermore, Catholics believe in an objective presence – not one available only to those who receive in faith. Latimer’s colleague Ridley makes their position about the term most clear. Writing in the Oxford Disputations of 1554 he says, “The true Church doth acknowledge a presence of Christ’s body in the Lord’s Supper to be communicated to the godly by grace… spiritually and by a sacramental signification, but not as a corporeal presence of the body of his flesh.”

This seemed to be the root of the term. It was a construction of the English Reformation. Latimer and Ridley did their best to come up with a term PRESENCE, SEE page 28

The divine indwelling

W

ithout necessarily realizing it, every person is seeking God on a daily basis. If we stop to honestly consider the level of our heart’s satisfaction, we will find that we are not quite fulfilled. Each of us would admit that there is something else that we long for, though maybe we are not sure what it is. The void in our hearts tells us that we are meant for more.

When God created us, He fashioned us with an innate desire that can only be fulfilled by Him. We can try to satisfy that yearning with something else, but such endeavors eventually prove useless and vain. It is the same as attempting to use a machine in a different capacity than what the manufacturer intended. In the end, the machine will break or frustrate the operator.

God is all-wise and all-loving, though, and He arranged that we could find this ultimate fulfillment in Him, beginning even on this earth. He accomplishes this through His divine indwelling in our souls.

At the moment of our baptism, we begin sharing in the life of the Blessed Trinity, and the only way to permanently separate our souls from this relationship is through unrepented mortal sin (see Catechism of the Catholic Church, 265 and 1864).

So many times in Sacred Scripture, Jesus referred to this indwelling of the Blessed Trinity within the creature. “If a man loves me,” says the Lord, “he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him, and make our home with him” (Jn 14:23). “I will pray the Father, and he will give you another Counselor, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth ... you know him, for he dwells with you, and will be in you” (Jn 14:16-17).

St. Paul also reiterated this truth to the Corinthians: “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” (1 Cor 3:16). Then to the Ephesians he wrote, “For through him (Jesus) we both have access in one Spirit to the Father” (Eph 2:18).

Through the course of growth in the spiritual life, we cultivate a deeper awareness of God’s presence in our souls. At first, it takes concerted efforts throughout the day to reflect upon this divine indwelling. “Most Holy Trinity, I believe in your presence in my soul. Reign in me as You desire.”

The practice of exterior, as well as interior, silence allows us to enter into those secret recesses of our hearts to communicate with the Most Holy Trinity at anytime of the day or night. Dressing in a modest, dignified manner reminds us and others that our bodies are temples of God, thus promoting respect for Him in us and a healthy respect for ourselves. As we continually practice awareness of the presence of God in our souls, then we come to grow in our union with Him so as to eventually receive the gift of contemplating Him perpetually.

This does not mean we become unaware of other persons and events around us. Rather, everything we do flows from our communion with God, as St. Paul said, “It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (Gal. 2:20).

We will rejoice with the joy of God, weep with His sorrow for the sins of mankind, and work in union with His work of creation, redemption and salvation.

Sometimes the situations in our lives seem so burdensome and overwhelming. Yet, if we can confidently remind ourselves, “God dwells in me,” we can face the trials and challenges of each day – not alone, but with Him. We will not run away from the circumstances surrounding us anymore, because then we will realize that God is actually present in that event or encounter, and He is present in our reaction to it.

Blessed Elizabeth of the Trinity, whose feast we celebrate on Nov. 8, grasped this beautiful reality, telling her acquaintances, “I leave you my faith in the presence of God, of the God who is all Love dwelling in our souls. I confide to you: it is this intimacy with Him ‘within’ that has been the beautiful sun illuminating my life, making it already an anticipated Heaven.”

Let us begin our heaven on earth, eagerly looking forward to finally seeing God face to face in a relationship of eternal union.

Allison Schumacher is a freelance writer who works with MiraVia in Belmont.

November 8, 2013 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

Deacon James H. Toner

Fr. George David Byers

A Bible study on light

A LESSON IN FAITH

Meet the boy who flew with the angels “

J” was a boy in a parish adjacent to where I served as pastor some years ago. At the age of 4, “J” died following a lengthy illness.

Despite his terminal illness, “J” could occasionally run in short spurts of ever-shortening duration. He loved to race about in the backyard of his house, arms spread wide, making sharp turns by reaching to heaven with one hand while almost touching the grass with the other.

His mother asked him if he was imitating the military jets that sometimes roared over the neighborhood. “Nope!” came the reply.

“J” was obviously surprised at her question. “A bird?”, his mother asked.

“No!” he said, and continued to run again, delighted with the guessing game.

“What then?” she persisted. Stopping his running, putting his arms to his side, he looked at her squarely, with eyes sparkling, and said, “I’m just me, but I’m hoping to fly one day with the angels!”

“J” then continued flying about, happy as ever, oblivious to the tears in his mother’s eyes. She feared that his wish would come true sooner than later. His illness would soon catch up with him.

Now “J,” you have to know, never did anything without his mother’s permission. One day, after another backyard session of hoping to fly with the angels, his arms spread out like wings, he asked his mother if he could finally go fly with the angels. She knew her son well enough to understand what he meant. He was asking for permission to die.

She realized that this request was inevitable but, of course, she was nevertheless taken aback when the question came again. She said, “No, not yet.” “J” went back to his flying lessons while she wept. Grief comes from love.

“J” persisted for permission the next day, and the day after that, with ever more earnestness in wanting to fly with the angels “for real” – each time his eyes more expectant of the permission he knew his mother would give him.

His mother watched her little “J” from the kitchen window. He was hardly able to run any more. Wanting him to be with the angels in heaven, she resolved that the next time he asked, she would put on a smile for his sake and grant him permission. The moment she made this resolution, she saw him come up the steps to the back door of the house. She knew what was coming, and even as her heart was breaking, she smiled from ear to ear for his sake.

“Mommy, can I go now to fly with the

angels for real?”

She knelt on the floor, hugged him, and then, with her hands on his shoulders and holding him at arm’s length, looked him in the eyes and said, “‘J,’ I love you. Go. Fly with the angels to Jesus.”

Then he spread out his arms and looked to heaven, dropping to the floor in a heap as he did so, dead in his body, alive in his soul, “hidden with Christ in God” (Col 3:3).

“J” had always been flying with the angels “for real,” even before he died.

In any funeral Mass, we say: “May the angels lead you into paradise!” And the opening prayer for a funeral Mass for a baptized child speaks to what we believe, what we hope – for them as well as for ourselves: “Most compassionate God, who in the counsels of your wisdom have called this child to yourself on the very threshold of life, listen kindly to our prayers, and grant that one day we may inherit eternal life with him, as your own child and who we believe is dwelling even now in your Kingdom.”

No matter how old we are, we are always the little boys and girls of our parents and, indeed, of God our Father.

He wants us in heaven.

To get there, we are instructed to be like the littlest of children (see Mt 18:3).

Such purity of heart and agility of soul – flying through life with the angels who always bring us to Jesus – is always ours for the asking in Jesus’ great sacrament of mercy: confession. The angels rejoice (see Lk 15:10) to help us in our friendship with Jesus, inspiring us to live together lives of humble thanksgiving, radiating Jesus’ goodness and kindness.

The angels were with “J” before his mother knew about it. It was a great joy for “J” to have the solidarity of his mother, who was enough a believer not to dismiss the angels of “J” as self-made psychological crutches. She was not only his mother, but also the catechist that Pope Francis is calling us all to be.

In our friendship with Jesus, before Him at Holy Mass, before Him in Eucharistic Adoration, the angels teach us how to love each other in this fallen world, weak as we are, so that we desire what is best for us all, that we might together ride on that final angel flight which lands just inside the gates of heaven, “for real.”

Father George David Byers serves in the western region of the Diocese of Charlotte. This is the first of three commentaries about suffering children by Father Byers. In the Nov. 22 edition, meet a little boy with an “intolerable” cross to bear.

27

God “rescued us from the power of darkness...” (Col 1:13)

A

mong the most powerful biblical themes is the constant tension between light (meaning the divine, the sacred, the virtuous) and darkness (meaning the damned, the profane, the vicious).

At almost every Mass, we recite the fourth-century Nicene-Constantinopolitan Creed, which, in part, refers to Jesus as “God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God,” settling what was known as the Arian heresy. From baptism, which is often referred to as “enlightenment” (see the Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1216 and 697), to death, in which we pray that “perpetual light” may shine upon the deceased (see CCC 265), we Catholics frequently understand truth, beauty and goodness in terms of light – meaning illumination, the power to see as we should, or awareness of and commitment to the One who is Himself “Light from Light.”

The world began when God said, “Let there be light,” and He saw that it was good (Gen 1:3-4; cf. Isaiah 45:7). God is love and light, and in Him there is no darkness (1 John 1:5, 4:8). So when we depart from God, we leave the light and enter increasingly into darkness. As the Israelites struggled to leave the power of darkness (cf. Job 10:22), they followed a pillar of fire to give them light (Ex 13:21). They needed that light, because without it they would have groped and staggered in the darkness (Job 12:25) just as we still do today, if we do not know our purpose or destination.

If we know that without the light we are in the grip of darkness (Job 17:12; cf. 18:5 and Proverbs 13:9), then we know we are wise to seek those things – and the Person – who can illuminate our way. The Lord’s Word “is a lamp to guide (us) and a light for (our path)” (Ps 119:105), and knowing His teaching “gives light and brings wisdom to the ignorant” (Ps 119:130). There are many who call evil good and good evil (Isaiah 5:20), and it is only God – not the things and thought of this world – who can turn darkness into light (Is 42:16).

In ancient times as well as today, we are often lost (Isaiah 8:21-22), but, like those who sought the recently born Christ, the people “who live in darkness will see a great light” (Mt 4:16). God “will cause the bright dawn of salvation to shine from heaven on all those who live in the shadow of death” (Luke 1:79). This is possible only if we have the eyes to see (Proverbs 20:12, Mark 8:18) and do not prefer the darkness (John 3:19) to the light, as, tragically, many do (Philippians 3:18-19, Romans 1:18).

By God’s grace, we follow the Star (Mt 2:9-10) and though the luminous mysteries of the most holy rosary, especially the Transfiguration (Mt 17:2, Lk 9:29), we are led to the great light of the Holy Eucharist (John 6:55). Having seen the light (by which we mean having converted to Christ), we are called upon to let our light shine before men (Mt 5:16), in much the same way that John the Baptist did (John 1:7-9). We must ensure, though, that what we call the light

is genuine (cf. Luke 11:35), and not the false idol of drink, drugs, sex, money or the drive for power. Deny the true light, distort the true light, douse the true light – and we lose our way by sinning (John 11:9-10, 12:3536). But when we live in the light, “we have fellowship with one another,” and we are purified from sin (1 John 1:7, 2:8).

Jesus is the light of men (John 1:4-5, 9:5, 8:12, 12:46), and when by word and deed we keep His commandments (John 14:15), we are then “children of the light” (Luke 16:8, John 12:36, Ephesians 5:8, 1 Thess 5:5).

St. Peter was released from prison after a light shone in his cell (Acts 12:7), so that he could continue his episcopal mission.

We too are “commissioned” to serve as Christ’s witnesses (Mt 28:19, Acts 1:8), for we have been called into God’s marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9), as was St. Paul, who was encountered the light on his way to Damascus (Acts 9:3), changing his life.

God lives in unapproachable light (1 Tim 6:16), which is to say that there is no human being and no human artifice under the name of politics that is divine. “Without the light the Gospel sheds on God and man,” the Catechism tells us, “societies easily become totalitarian” (CCC 2257, also see 1923 and 1896).

By living a life of faith – by following the light – we “will be able to win the life that is true life” (1 Tm 6:19). The People of God are “like light for the whole world” (Mt 5:14), which is why the Catechism teaches us that “Christians are called to be the light of the world. Thus, the Church shows forth the kingship of Christ over all creation and in particular over human societies” (CCC 2105).

At the Easter Vigil Mass on Holy Saturday, the deacon, in the presence of the newly lit Paschal candle, sings the great hymn of praise “The Exsultet,” (also called the Easter Proclamation), which in part is: Exult, let them exult, the hosts of heaven, exult, let Angel ministers of God exult, let the trumpet of salvation sound aloud our mighty King’s triumph!

Be glad, let earth be glad, as glory floods her, ablaze with light from her eternal King, let all corners of the earth be glad, knowing an end to gloom and darkness.

Rejoice, let Mother Church also rejoice, arrayed with the lightning of his glory, let this holy building shake with joy, filled with the mighty voices of the peoples.

Thus did the Vatican II Constitution on the Church (“Lumen Gentium,” or “The Light of the Nations”) tell us that “Christ is the light of humanity; and it is, accordingly, the heart-felt desire of this sacred Council ... that, by proclaiming His Gospel to every creature (cf. Mk 16:15), it may bring to all men that light of Christ which shines out visibly from the Church.”

Amen!

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

28

catholicnewsherald.com | November 8, 2013 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

PRESENCE: FROM PAGE 26

for the Eucharist which would please their Catholic persecutors and yet not compromise their Protestant beliefs. But maybe there was more to it. What if the term “real presence” actually originated before the 16th century?

Father Daniel brought me an excellent two-volume work called “The History of the Doctrine of the Holy Eucharist” by the Oxford scholar Darwell Stone. In this wonderful book, Stone traces the Church’s beliefs about the Eucharist from New Testament times through the late 19th century. The book is arranged chronologically with copious quotations from various theologians.

Debates over the Body and Blood of Christ in the sacrament really blew up with the 11th century French theologian Berengar of Tours. Berengar denied that there could be a material change at the consecration, and the controversy which raged for the next 200 years ended in the definition of transubstantiation at the Fourth Lateran Council in 1215. It is

interesting that during this controversy the orthodox terminology is “real body and real blood of Christ.” The term “real presence” doesn’t occur.

I found the first reference to the term “real presence” in the 14th century theologian John of Paris. He wrote, “I intend to defend the real and actual presence of the body of Christ in the Sacrament of the Altar, and that it is not there only as by way of a sign…” But John of Paris was deprived of his professorship because his views on the sacrament were considered unorthodox. It was in the same century that the pre-cursor of Latimer and Ridley – John Wycliffe – also used the term “real presence.” Like Ridley and Latimer, he used “real presence” as an alternative to transubstantiation. In other words, “real presence” was a compromise term used to suggest a high view of the sacrament while in fact denying the Catholic doctrine of transubstantiation.

As I’d already suspected, Ridley and Latimer denied transubstantiation, but because of Catholic pressure needed to express their beliefs in as high a way as possible. Thus Ridley and Latimer said they believed in the “real presence,” but this was simply their term for a fancy kind of receptionism.

So the term “real presence” has – from the start – been used as an alternative to the Catholic doctrine of transubstantiation.

Not only did Latimer and Ridley use “real presence” to deny transubstantiation, but so did the 17th century “high church” Anglican divine Jeremy Taylor, who used the term “real presence” as a contrast to transubstantiation in his treatise, “The Real and Spiritual Presence of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament proved against the Doctrine of Transubstantiation.”

The second volume of Darwell Stone shows how the great Anglican E.B. Pusey re-coined the phrase “real presence” in the mid-19th century and promoted it most strongly. It is thanks to Pusey that the term entered common usage within the Oxford movement and eventually made its way through the Anglican and other non-Catholic churches to be used so widely today.

But what did Pusey mean by “real presence”? He was at pains to point out that he did not hold to any corporeal presence of Christ in the Eucharist. “In the communion there is a true, real, actual though spiritual communication of the body and blood of Christ to the believer through the holy elements.” In another place Pusey denies transubstantiation explicitly and argues for a “mystical, sacramental and spiritual presence of the body of our Lord.” And most explicitly, in 1857 Pusey says, “there is no physical union of the body and blood of Christ with the bread and wine.”

Pusey in the Oxford of the mid-1850s was not at risk of being burned at the stake like Ridley and Latimer feared. But in that same university city, he felt a similar pressure of trying to reconcile English Reformation doctrines with the beliefs of the Catholic Church. Pusey was under pressure because he sincerely wanted the Anglican church to be as Catholic as possible, but as an Anglican clergyman he had to subscribe to the Thirty-Nine Articles of the church, and Article 28 specifically repudiates transubstantiation.

So – like Ridley and Latimer before him – he used the term “real presence” to sound as close to Catholicism as possible while in fact rejecting Catholic doctrine. Pusey believed the “real presence” of Christ in the sacrament was only a spiritual and sacramental presence. In this way, the Victorian Anglo-Catholic actually agreed with the reformer Ridley who wrote, “The blood of Christ is in the chalice… but by grace and in a sacrament…This presence

‘Catholics believe in a corporeal, substantial presence of Christ in the Eucharist. The whole Christ is present, Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity. It is not just a spiritual presence.’ of Christ is wholly spiritual.”

So why does it matter if the Presence of Christ is only spiritual and sacramental?

It matters because the whole work of Christ is more than spiritual. It is physical. Ever since at least St. Irenaeus, the Catholic Church has insisted that the Incarnation really was a supernatural union of the spiritual and the physical.

As Darwell Stone writes, Irenaeus was countering Gnosticism, “which interposed an insuperable barrier between spiritual beings and material things; between the true God of the universe and the universe of matter.” And it is one of the great heresies of our age that Christians attempt to ‘spirit away’ the physical-ness of the gospel. So the resurrection, the miracles and the incarnation itself become mere ‘spiritual events.’”

So likewise the Church has always insisted – despite the difficulties – that the Presence of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament is not simply spiritual and subjective. It is objective and corporeal.

In some way it is physical. The Fourth Lateran Council explained that belief with the term transubstantiation. As the Oxford Dominican Father Herbert McCabe once said, “Transubstantiation is not a complete explanation of the mystery, but it is the best description of what we believe happens at the consecration.”

So what should Catholics do when confronted with this confusing term “real presence”? First of all, Catholics should realize it is not a Catholic term at all. Its history is mostly Anglican, and as such it was always used as a way to adroitly sidestep the troublesome doctrine of transubstantiation, and as such it is not an accurate term to describe true Catholic Eucharistic doctrine.

Secondly, when non-Catholics say they believe in the “real presence,” Catholics should ask what they mean by it. A non-Catholic will almost never mean transubstantiation. By the term “real presence,” the non-Catholic most certainly does not mean he believes the sacrament is the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of our Lord. Asking what the non-Catholic means by the term “real presence” should be done in a positive and constructive way.

Their definition can open the way for an explanation of what a Catholic means by “real presence.” Clear definitions help everybody.

In his 1965 encyclical “Mysterium Fidei,” Pope Paul VI encourages the use of clear and unambiguous language about the Eucharist. He writes, “Having safeguarded the integrity of the faith it is necessary to safeguard also its proper mode of expression, lest by careless use of words we occasion the rise of false opinions regarding faith in the most sublime of mysteries.” In the same encyclical Pope Paul VI actually uses the term “Real Presence,” but he does so to outline the ways in which Christ is present in His Church. Interestingly, Pope Paul VI affirms all the ways non-Catholics might define “real presence.” He says Christ is really present in the Church when she prays. He is also present when she performs acts of mercy. Christ is present in the Church as she struggles to perfection. He is really present when the Church governs the People of God. Christ is present in the preaching of the Gospel and He is present as the Church faithfully celebrates the Eucharist.

However, Pope Paul VI also makes it clear that the Eucharistic Presence of the

Body and Blood of Christ is different from these other forms of Christ’s presence. It is a unique presence. So he affirms, “This presence is called ‘real’ by which it is not intended to exclude all other types of presence as if they could not be ‘real’ too, but because it is presence in the fullest sense. That is to say, it is a substantial presence by which Christ the God-Man is wholly and entirely present. It would therefore be wrong to explain this presence by taking resource to the ‘spiritual’ nature, as it is called, of the glorified Body of Christ which is present everywhere, or by reducing it to a kind of symbolism as if this most august sacrament consisted of nothing else than an efficacious sign of the spiritual presence of Christ and of His intimate union with the Faithful members of His mystical body.”

So as Catholics, we must use clear language about the sacrament. We can affirm the real presence of Christ which non-Catholics affirm in the fellowship of the Church, in the preaching of the Gospel and in the celebration of the Eucharist, but we must also affirm that the fullest sense of the “real presence” is that which we worship in the Blessed Sacrament.

Although Pope Paul VI used the term “real presence” in “Mysterium Fidei,” the whole thrust of the encyclical is to support and recommend the continued use of the term ‘transubstantiation” as the Catholic terminology. With this in mind, I suggest Catholics should avoid the ambiguous term “real presence” and speak boldly of transubstantiation. Instead of “real presence” we should also use the terminology used in the 12th century when the doctrine of transubstantiation was being hammered out. Then there was no talk of a vaguely spiritual “real presence.”

Instead, they referred to the “real Body and real Blood of Christ.”

“Mysterium Fidei” encourages those devotions which are implied by our belief in the real Body and real Blood of Christ.

That such devotions are encouraged as a support to transubstantiation is nothing new. It is no coincidence that just 50 years after the doctrine of transubstantiation was promulgated by the Fourth Lateran Council, Pope Urban IV decreed the Feast of Corpus Christi. The beliefs of the Church are always reflected in her devotions. So we should encourage the devotions which accompany our belief in Christ’s corporeal presence in the sacrament of the altar. It is the practice of benediction, prayer before the sacrament and veneration of the Blessed Sacrament which make clear exactly what we do mean by the term “real presence,” and that it is not the same thing that non-Catholic Christians mean when they use the same term.

These distinctions should not be emphasized in a spirit of division and exclusion, but with the true longing for Christ’s Body to be reunited. That true and costly reunion will not come as long as we accept ambiguous language which allows us to pretend that we all believe the same thing. Instead, it will come as we recognize the true divisions which still exist, understand our differences and seek to resolve them with patience, love and a good sense of humor.

Father Dwight Longenecker is the pastor of Our Lady of the Rosary Church in Greenville, S.C. This column is excerpted from his blog “Standing on My Head,” which appears on the Patheos.com Catholic channel. His latest book is “Catholicism Pure and Simple.”