Nov. 25, 2016

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

Fire destroys Boy Scout camp’s iconic dining hall

Novemb er 25, 2 0 1 6

In the service of Christ the King

Scout leaders vow to rebuild, launch $2.5M campaign

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INDEX

Contact us.......................... 4 Español.................................14 Events calendar................. 4 Our Parishes.................. 4-11 Schools......................... 15-16 Scripture readings............ 2 TV & Movies.......................17 U.S. news...................... 18-19 Viewpoints.................. 22-23 World news.................. 20-21 Year of Mercy.................. 2-3

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‘We proclaim Him as our king over all those who govern in our world’ Christ the King Church in High Point celebrates 75th anniversary, 5 CELEBRATING BLACK CATHOLIC HISTORY MONTH Black Catholics reflect: Look to the past for how to live one’s faith today 8-9

JUBILEE YEAR OF MERCY ENDS Proclaim Christ the king of mercy, pope says at end of Holy Year 2-3

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catholicnewsherald.com | November 25, 2016 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Diocesan pilgrims travel to Rome for Jubilee Year of Mercy Pilgrims from across the Diocese of Charlotte traveled to Rome, Assisi and Siena in October with Father Michael Kottar, pastor of St. Mary Help of Christians Church in Shelby and Father Carmen Malacari, pastor of Holy Spirit Church in Denver. Pilgrims had the opportunity to go through several holy doors for the Jubilee Year of Mercy, including the Holy Door at the Papal Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi (pictured at top left). Also pictured (clockwise from top right): pilgrims wait in St. Peter’s Square during the weekly audience with Pope Francis; pilgrims pray at St. Maria Goretti’s tomb; Father Kottar and Father Malacari celebrate Mass at the tomb of St. Francis in Assisi; pilgrims follow the tradition of touching the feet of a bronze statue of St. Peter in St. Peter’s Basilica; pilgrims admire frescos in the Upper Church of St. Francis; and pilgrims pause to pray at the tomb of St. Paul.

Photos by Giuliana Polinari Riley | Catholic News Herald

Your daily Scripture readings NOV. 27-DEC. 3

Sunday: Isaiah 2:1-5, Romans 13:11-14, Matthew 24:37-44; Monday: Isaiah 4:2-6, Matthew 8:5-11; Tuesday: Isaiah 11:1-10, Luke 10:21-24; Wednesday (St. Andrew): Romans 10:9-18, Matthew 4:18-22; Thursday: Isaiah 26:1-6, Matthew 7:21, 24-27; Friday: Isaiah 29:17-24, Matthew 9:27-31; Saturday (St. Francis Xavier): Isaiah 30:19-21, 23-26, Matthew 9:35, 10:1, 5-8

DEC. 4-10

Sunday: Isaiah 11:1-10, Romans 15:4-9, Matthew 3:1-12; Monday: Isaiah 35:1-10, Luke 5:17-26; Tuesday (St. Nicholas): Isaiah 40:111, Matthew 18:12-14; Wednesday (St. Ambrose): Isaiah 40:25-31, Matthew 11:28-30; Thursday (The Immaculate Conception): Genesis 3:9-15, 20, Ephesians 1:3-6, 11-12, Luke 1:26-38; Friday (St. Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin): Isaiah 48:17-19, Matthew 11:16-19; Saturday: Sirach 48:1-4, 9-11, Matthew 17:9-13

DEC. 11-17

Sunday: Isaiah 35:1-6, 10, James 5:7-10, Matthew 11:2-11; Monday (Our Lady of Guadalupe): Zechariah 2:14-17, Judith 13:18-19, Luke 1:26-38; Tuesday (St. Lucy): Zephaniah 3:1-2, 9-13, Matthew 21:28-32; Wednesday (St. John of the Cross): Isaiah 45:6-8, 18, 21-25, Luke 7:18-23; Thursday: Isaiah 54:1-10, Luke 7:24-30; Friday: Isaiah 56:1-3, 6-8, John 5:33-36; Saturday: Genesis 49:2, 8-10, Matthew 1:1-17

November 25, 2016 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

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Pope Francis closes the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica to mark the closing of the jubilee Year of Mercy at the Vatican Nov. 20.

CNS | Tiziana Fabi, pool via Reuters

Proclaim Christ the king of mercy, pope says at end of Holy Year Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY — Following Christ the King, whose regal power is love and mercy, means the whole church and each Christian must “follow His way of tangible love,” Pope Francis said.

Celebrating the feast of Christ the King Nov. 20 and officially closing the extraordinary jubilee celebration of the Year of Mercy, Pope Francis insisted, “we have received mercy in order to be merciful.”

On a warm, late fall morning, St. Peter’s Square was filled with an estimated 70,000 people for the Mass, which was concelebrated by the new cardinals Pope Francis had created the previous day.

The pope and the new cardinals first went to the atrium of St. Peter’s Basilica and gave thanks for “the gifts of grace received” during the Holy Year. Pope Francis then went to the threshold of the Holy Door and pulled each side shut. The door will be sealed until the next Holy Year, which is likely to be 2025.

In his homily, Pope Francis said that even if the Holy Door is closed, “the true door of mercy, which is the heart of Christ, always remains open wide for us.”

The power of Christ the King, he said, “is

not power as defined by this world, but the love of God, a love capable of encountering and healing all things.”

Like the “good thief” who turned to Jesus on the cross and was assured a place in heaven, anyone who turns to God with trust can be forgiven, the pope said. “He is ready to completely and forever cancel our sin, because His memory – unlike our own – does not record evil that has been done or keep score of injustices experienced.”

Loving like Christ loves us, he said, means constantly seeking the grace to forgive others, forget the offenses committed and be instruments of reconciliation in the world.

Following Christ the King also means accepting “the scandal of His humble love,” which can be difficult because it “unsettles and disturbs us.”

Christ’s love, the love Christians are called to imitate, is concrete and tangible and is not concerned with personal comfort, power and superiority.

Even in evangelization “the lure of power and success seem an easy, quick way to spread the Gospel,” he said. The Year of Mercy was a call to “rediscover the youthful, beautiful face of the Church, the face that is radiant when it is welcoming, free, faithful, poor in means but rich in love, on mission.”

Christ the king, “our king, went to the ends of the universe in order to embrace and save every living being,” he said. “He did not condemn us, nor did He conquer us, and He never disregarded our freedom, but He paved the way with a humble love that forgives all things, hopes all things, sustains all things.”

Christ’s followers are called to continue His saving mission, the pope said.

At the end of the Mass, Pope Francis signed his new apostolic letter, “Misericordia et Misera,” (“Mercy and Misery”), which a papal aide announced was written to affirm that the commitment to sharing the merciful love of God continues because it is “the heart of the Gospel.”

The pope gave the letter, which was to be made public Nov. 21, to a group of people representing different sectors of the Church: Manila Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, president of Caritas Internationalis; Scottish Archbishop Leo Cushley of St. Andrews and Edinburgh, on behalf of diocesan bishops; two priests who were “missionaries of mercy” for the Holy Year; a permanent deacon; two religious women; an extended family; an engaged couple; two women catechists; a person with disabilities; and a person who is ill.

CNS | Paul Haring

Pope Francis celebrates the closing Mass of the jubilee Year of Mercy in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican Nov. 20.

CNS | Paul Haring

Pope Francis presents his apostolic letter, “Misericordia et Misera,” (“Mercy and Misery”) to a woman in a wheelchair at the conclusion of the closing Mass of the jubilee Year of Mercy in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican Nov. 20. In the letter the pope called for several special initiatives begun during the Year of Mercy to continue on a permanent basis.

Explore the history of the Church online At www.yearofmercy.rcdoc.org/timeline: For more than 2,000 years, the Catholic Church has played a role in the shaping of history.

Explore that history in a concise, visual timeline on the Diocese of Charlotte’s Year of Mercy website. The interactive timeline allows you to scroll through events chronologically or skip around by date to learn more about the key people, places and events starting from the early days of the Church through the modern era.

More online At www.catholicnewsherald. com: As the Year of Mercy closes, check out the highlights from the holy year in the diocese and find suggestions of how to keep the themes of the year alive in our special section

UPcoming events 4

catholicnewsherald.com | November 25, 2016 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Bishop Peter J. Jugis will participate in the following upcoming events: Nov. 26 – 1 p.m.

Sacrament of Confirmation St. Elizabeth Church, Boone

Dec. 1 – 7 p.m.

Sacrament of Confirmation St. Mark Church, Huntersville

Nov. 28 – 7 p.m.

Sacrament of Confirmation St. James Church, Concord

DEC. 3 – 10 A.M.

Dec. 1 – 10 a.m.

Diocesan Foundation Board Meeting Catholic Conference Center, Hickory

DEC. 9 – 7 P.M. Sacrament of Confirmation St. Mark Church, Huntersville

Jan. 2-7, 2017 Annual Retreat for Bishops

Sacrament of Confirmation St. Patrick Cathedral, Charlotte

Diocesan calendar of events November 25, 2016

ENTERTAINMENT

Volume 26 • Number 4

Fourth Annual Lessons and Carols: 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 2, at St. John Neumann Church, 8451 Idlewild Road, Charlotte. There will be Gospel readings and music in seven languages. For details, call the parish office at 704-536-6520.

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

STAFF 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 Hispanic communications reporter: Rico De Silva, 704-370-3375, rdesilva@charlottediocese.org GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Tim Faragher 704-370-3331, tpfaragher@charlottediocese.org COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT/CIRCULATION: Erika Robinson, 704-370-3333, catholicnews@ charlottediocese.org

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

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

ADVERTISING: Reach 165,000 Catholics across western North Carolina! For advertising rates and information, contact Advertising Manager Kevin Eagan at 704-370-3332 or keeagan@charlottediocese.org. The Catholic News Herald reserves the right to reject or cancel advertising for any reason, and does not recommend or guarantee any product, service or benefit claimed by our advertisers.

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

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

Natural family planning NFP Classes: 1-5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, at Holy Family Church, 4820 Kinnamon Road, Winston-Salem.

Effectiveness of modern NFP, health risks of popular contraceptives and what the Church teaches about responsible parenting. Sponsored by Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte. RSVP to Batrice Adcock, MSN, RN, at 704-370-3230.

PRAYER SERVICES & Groups Advent Parish mission, ‘preparing room in the “Inn of our hearts” ’: 6:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 28, to Wednesday, Nov. 30, at St. Patrick Cathedral, 1621 Dilworth Road East, Charlotte. Led by Father Richard Sutter, parochial vicar. For details, call the parish office at 704-334-2283 or go online to www.stpatricks.org.

Ignatian Spirituality Advent Retreat, ‘Awakened – Surrendered, Hope in Troubled Times’: 9 a.m.-noon in Biss Hall at St. Peter Church, 507 S. Tryon St. The morning program starts with: Listening to Scripture and reflections, contemplating putting yourself in the Scripture scene, quiet time to absorb the messages and sharing what inspired you with another retreatant. Presented by the St. Peter Ignatian Spiritual Team. For details and registration, email communications@stpetercatholic.org. Light breakfast, beverages and snacks served.

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

Thursday, Dec. 15, at St. Matthew Church, 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy., Charlotte. With the upcoming Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons, the November service is in the Daily Mass Chapel; December is in the main church. In January, it will return to the fourth Thursday of the month. The healing prayer service is offered for all those suffering with cancer or other diseases. For details, call the church office at 704-5437677.

Charlotte Catholic Women’s Group MORNING REFLECTION: 9 a.m. Mass Monday, Dec. 12, at St. Vincent de Paul Church, 6828 Old Reid Road, Charlotte.

Guest speaker will be Father Binoy P. Davis of St. Matthew Church. For details and to RSVP, go to www. charlottecatholicwomensgroup.org.

CHARLOTTE Maronite Mission: Masses are offered every Saturday at 7 p.m. at St. Matthew Church, 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy., Charlotte. The Maronite Mission of Charlotte is an Eastern rite Catholic Church in full communion with the pope.

Healing Mass and Anointing of the Sick: 2 p.m. every third Sunday of the month, St. Margaret of

Scotland Church, 37 Murphy Dr., Maggie Valley. Individual prayers over people after Mass by Charismatic Prayer Group members. For details, call the church office at 828-926-0106.

Evening Novenas: Every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at Christ the King Church, 1505 East Kivett Dr., High Point. All are invited to pray the Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help. Join them in praying for the needs of your families and for our hurting world. For details, call the church office at 336-883-0244.

month at 7 p.m. at St. Thomas Aquinas Church, 1400 Suther Road, Charlotte. There will be readings from the Diary of St. Maria Faustina Kowalska, veneration of the Image of Divine Mercy, the sung Chaplet of Divine Mercy, exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and benediction.

Year of Mercy website: Keep up to date on all Jubilee Year of Mercy events, download catechetical resources on the spiritual and corporal works of mercy, watch videos on the theme of mercy, and much more, at the Diocese of Charlotte’s Year of Mercy website: www. yearofmercy.rcdoc.org.

SAFE ENVIRONMENT TRAINING “Protecting God’s Children” workshops are intended to educate parish volunteers to recognize and prevent sexual abuse. For details, contact your parish office. To register and confirm workshop times, go to www.virtus. org. Upcoming workshops are: CONCORD: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2, at St. James Church, 139 Manor Ave. GREENSBORO: 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, St. Mary Church, 812 Duke St. Huntersville: 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, St. Mark Church, 14740 Stumptown Road SUPPORT GROUPS MOTHERING WITH GRACE: Second Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. in the Assembly Room at St. Vincent de Paul Church, 6828 Old Reid, Charlotte. For details, go to www. motheringwithgrace.org.

Shining Stars Adult day respite: Meets on Mondays and Wednesdays at St. Gabriel Church, 3016 Providence Road, Charlotte. Shining Stars is a nonprofit adult day respite program for members of the community with early to moderate Alzheimer’s disease.

For details, call Suzanne Bach at 704-335-0253.

Alzheimer’s Caregiver and Family Support Group: Meets the first Monday of the month, 6:30-8 p.m., in Family Center Room 203 at St. Mark Church, 14740 Stumptown Road, Huntersville. Organized with the Alzheimer’s Association, the monthly meetings are for the caregivers and family members of people with Alzheimer’s. For details, email Janet Urban at jgraceart@ yahoo.com.

Year OF MERCY Divine Mercy Holy Hour: Every first Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m., in the Daily Mass Chapel at St. Matthew Church, 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy.

Everyone is welcome to attend and pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy, venerate and be blessed by the parish’s first-class relic of St. Faustina Kowalska. Recite Divine Mercy prayers and read Scripture and excerpts from St. Faustina’s diary. Each month’s Holy Hour will be for a specific intention: Dec. 1, healing of the family.

Divine Mercy Holy Hour: Every First Friday of each

YOUNG ADULTS Advent Evening reflection, ‘Preparing “room in the inn” of our hearts” ’: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1, at St. Patrick Cathedral, 1621 Dilworth Road East, Charlotte. All young adults are invited to this evening of prayer, praise and fellowship. Reflection led by Father Richard Sutter, parochial vicar. For details, call the parish office at 704-334-2283 or go to www.stpatricks.org.

ASHEVILLE THEOLOGY ON TAP: For Catholics in their 20s and 30s in the Asheville region. For details, check them out on Facebook, Twitter or MeetUp. CHARLOTTE AREA: Groups for Catholics in their 20s and 30s, single or married, are active on MeetUp at www. meetup.com/charlottecatholicyoungadultministry, and at: St. Gabriel Church: on Facebook at “St. Gabriel Young Adult Ministry” St. John Neumann Church: call Meg VanGoethem, 815-545-2587 St. Matthew Church: On Facebook at “Young Adult Life: A St. Matthew Ministry” St. Patrick Cathedral: on Facebook at “St. Patrick Cathedral Frassati Fellowship-Young Adult Ministry” St. Peter Church: look them up on MeetUp at www. meetup.com/St-Peters-Catholic-Young-Adult-MinistryCharlotte-NC St. Thomas Aquinas Church: online at “Aquinas’ Finest,” www.stacharlotte.com/finest Our Lady of Consolation Church: contact Denise Duliepre, 917-575-0871 St. Michael Church in Gastonia: For Catholics in their 20s and 30s in the Gastonia area. Meets once a month. Online at www.stmichaelsgastonia.org/youngadults.

Holy Spirit Church in Denver: call Nicole Lehman, 704-607-5207

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.

Our parishes

November 25, 2016 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

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(Left) Bishop Peter Jugis sprinkles holy water on parishioners at Christ the King Church in High Point during the parish’s 75th anniversary celebration Nov. 20.

(Above, from left) The English and Spanish choirs provided music for the bilingual Mass Nov. 20. Bishop Jugis speaks to the parish’s 10 confirmation students in the church before Mass. The bishop incenses the Blessed Sacrament in the new tabernacle at Christ the King Church.

Photos by Patricia L. Guilfoyle | Catholic News Herald

Christ the King Church celebrates 75th anniversary Patricia L. Guilfoyle Editor

HIGH POINT — Holy Mass on the patronal feast of Christ the King Sunday capped off more than a week of diamond jubilee celebrations Nov. 20 by members of Christ the King Church in High Point.

The diverse parish, comprised of more than 160 Anglo, Latino, Indian, African and African American Catholic families, marked the 75th anniversary of the dedication of their church with a litany of devotions and activities leading up to the feast day: a novena to Christ the King, Eucharistic Adoration and outdoor procession, a pilgrimage to the Door of Mercy at St. Pius X Church in Greensboro, a healing Mass, and a food drive that netted more than 1,000 pounds of donations for a local food pantry.

Then on Nov. 20 hundreds of people filled the fellowship hall for a bilingual Mass – the church next door was too small – celebrated by Bishop Peter Jugis and Father Gnanapragasam Mariasoosai, pastor. Bishop Jugis administered the sacrament of confirmation to 10 young people, and he blessed a new tabernacle and Stations of the Cross for the church.

In his homily, Bishop Jugis reflected on the kingship of Christ, the anniversary of Christ the King’s dedication in High Point, and the responsibility of every Catholic –

including the newly confirmed – to serve Christ the King in everything they say and do.

In the Gospel reading of the day describing the scene of His crucifixion, Jesus shows “in a most marvelous way” His kingship and His gift of love and mercy to the whole world, Bishop Jugis noted.

“He’s sitting on His throne, which is the cross, from which He is ruling the entire world. For the royal crown, He is wearing a crown of thorns indicating His great humility in suffering to save us from our sins and make us free. Instead of a royal purple cloak ... He’s wearing His Blood.”

“We proclaim Him as our king over all those who govern in our world, whether they be called kings or prime ministers or presidents,” Bishop Jugis said, because “all of that is subservient to Jesus, who reigns as supreme ruler over all of creation, over all of our lives, over every single nation.”

He encouraged the confirmation students to follow Jesus as their King. Receiving the sacrament of confirmation, he said, means being sealed with the Holy Spirit and “accepting that great privilege, that great honor and dignity of being a confirmed Catholic, of completing your sacraments of initiation and entering wholeheartedly into the service of the King.”

He said the confirmation students, indeed all Catholics, have a duty to be ambassadors for Christ, “to go out into

More online At www.catholicnewsherald.com: See more photos from Christ the King Church’s 75th anniversary celebration

the world and to do our work for Christ. We’re not here to serve ourselves in this world. We’re here to serve Jesus.”

“Sometimes it may be difficult because the world does not always want to follow Jesus’ commandments and is not interested in what Jesus has to say,” he continued. “But we are His witnesses, so that everything we say, everything that we do, should reveal our love for Jesus and should let people know that we stand with Jesus. We stand with Him and not with the passing values of this world.”

Bishop Jugis also reflected on the anniversary of when Bishop Eugene McGuinness came to High Point to consecrate the church in 1941.

“Just think of the witness that this parish has served here on Kivett Drive for 75 years, a witness to the Catholic faith, a witness to our love for Jesus,” he said. “Now it’s our turn in 2016 to stand on the shoulders of that great foundation that has been set down for us, to do our part and take up our role as witnesses for Christ here in this ANNIVERSARY, SEE page 24

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catholicnewsherald.com | November 25, 2016 OUR PARISHES

HELP OUR RELIGIOUS

Religious retirement collection set for Dec. 10-11 CHARLOTTE — Our retired religious men and women need our help. More than 175 men and women religious in 30 communities in western North Carolina are counting on the faithful of the Diocese of Charlotte to donate generously to the 29th annual Retirement Fund for Religious collection, being taken up in all parishes Dec. 10-11.

The appeal is coordinated by the National Religious Retirement Office and offers support for senior Catholic sisters, brothers and religious order priests whose communities lack sufficient retirement funding. Nationally, some 33,000 women and men religious past age 70 benefit.

The U.S. bishops started this collection to address the significant lack of retirement funding among U.S. religious communities. Proceeds are distributed to eligible communities to help underwrite retirement and health care expenses. Women and men religious who serve or have served in the diocese but whose communities are based elsewhere may benefit from the Retirement Fund for Religious.

Last year parishioners in the Charlotte diocese contributed a record-high $327,596.32 to the national 2015 appeal, which raised $30.7 million overall. The NRRO distributed more than $25 million in monetary support to 401 religious communities.

“Words cannot express our gratitude for the love, sacrifice and generosity these donations represent,” said Sister Susan Schorsten, a member of the Sisters of the Humility of Mary and NRRO’s interim executive director. “The annual assistance the collection furnishes helps religious communities across the country provide for the ongoing needs of aging members.”

The funding disbursed is known as Direct Care Assistance and represents the majority of financial support distributed by the NRRO. Religious communities combine this assistance with their own income and savings to help meet such dayto-day expenses as prescription medications and nursing care. Additional allocations will be directed toward religious communities with the greatest needs and for ongoing education in retirement planning and eldercare delivery.

Nearly 95 percent of donations aid elderly religious and their communities, while the remaining 5 percent is used for administration and promotion of the annual appeal.

While the response to the collection is unprecedented, so is the need.

The total cost of care for senior women and men religious has exceeded $1 billion for each of the past seven years. At the same time, the number of religious needing care is on the rise. In 2016, 68 percent of the religious communities providing data to the NRRO had a median age of 70 or older.

Accompanying the higher median age is a decrease in the number of religious able to serve in paid ministry, which further reduces the income available for eldercare.

Hundreds of religious communities also lack sufficient retirement savings, due in part to historically low compensation.

Religious communities are financially autonomous and thus responsible for the support and care of all members.

Annual distributions from the Retirement Fund for Religious provide supplemental assistance to help meet such day-to-day needs as prescription medications and nursing care.

Throughout the year, additional funding is allocated for communities with the greatest needs and for retirement planning and educational resources. Ninety-five cents of every dollar directly aids elderly religious; the remainder is used for administration and promotion of the appeal.

Besides providing financial assistance, the NRRO offers education and resources that help religious communities stretch retirement dollars and plan for future needs.

Strategic partnerships with various organizations further these efforts.

The NRRO coordinates the annual Retirement Fund for Religious collection and distributes the proceeds to eligible religious communities. The organization is sponsored by the Conference of Major Superiors of Men, the Council of Major Superiors of Women Religious, the Leadership Conference of Women Religious, and the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Learn more at www.retiredreligious.org.

— SueAnn Howell, senior reporter. The National Religious Retirement Office contributed.

Photo provided by the Mecklenburg County Council of the Boy Scouts of America

The Belk Dining Hall at Boy Scouts’ Camp Grimes in Dysartsville was completely destroyed in a fire Nov. 13. Scout leaders are pledging to rebuild the dining hall and make other improvements to the iconic camp in the South Mountains.

Fire destroys Boy Scout camp’s iconic dining hall Scout leaders vow to rebuild, launch $2.5M campaign DUSTIN CHANDLER The McDowell News

DYSARTSVILLE — Boy Scout leaders are pledging to rebuild following the total destruction of Camp Grimes’ much-loved dining hall in a fire Nov. 13.

Emergency agencies responded to a call in reference to a fire at Camp Grimes Boy Scout Camp on Vein Mountain Road at 6:18 p.m. Sunday.

Dysartsville, Nebo, Marion, Glenwood, Hankins, P.G., Sugar Hill and West End fire departments, the N.C. Forest Service, McDowell EMS, McDowell Rescue Squad and Emergency Management responded, finding the camp’s 40-year-old Belk Dining Hall fully engulfed in flames. They worked quickly to prevent the fire from spreading to other parts of the camp.

Local fire investigators later determined that the cause of the fire, which originated in the kitchen, was accidental and unrelated to nearby forest fires that have been raging for weeks in the South Mountains.

Chris Williams, camp ranger and employee with the Mecklenburg County Council of the Boy Scouts of America, was on site at the time with his family when he noticed the flames and called 911.

According to Williams, no one was inside the dining hall and there were no injuries sustained, but he called the building a “total loss.”

Williams complimented the numerous agencies that responded, claiming that their quick response prevented the flames from spreading throughout the property.

Camp Grimes remains open, although a regionwide ban on burning prevents campers from having campfires.

In a message emailed to Scouts across the region and posted online, Mark Turner of the BSA’s Mecklenburg County Council wrote, “The memories built over the last 40 years are steeped deep within our community and this is a tremendous emotional loss to our Scouting family.

Structures can be rebuilt, but we lost items that can never be replaced. Lost were the original hand carved entrance signs to Camp Grimes erected in 1976. Many neckerchief slides hand carved by Gene Grimes were also lost. The memorabilia has taken decades to gather, but we know deep inside we will begin to build our new memories and traditions.”

To that end, Turner said, Scout leaders have rallied to launch a campaign to raise $2.5 million to replace the

Dustin Chandler | The McDowell News

dining hall with a larger, more modern facility as well as upgrade other central buildings at Camp Grimes to ensure that the iconic camp will serve many future generations of young people.

They plan to build a larger dining hall with a heating and air conditioning system, so that it can be used yearround by more campers. They also plan to refurbish the adjacent open shelter and flag plaza, as well as update the trading post, laundry facility, and indoor climbing wall area.

The entire project will cost an estimated $3.5 million.

They anticipate receiving approximately $1 million from their insurance policy to put towards the rebuilding campaign, Turner noted.

A GoFundMe account – www.gofundme.com/ campgrimesdininghall – has been set up with a goal of $500,000 to help with the site cleanup and rebuilding effort.

Donations can also be mailed to: Mecklenburg County Council, Boys Scouts of America, Camp Grimes Building Fund, 1410 East 7th St., Charlotte, NC 28204.

— Catholic News Herald contributed.

November 25, 2016 | catholicnewsherald.com

Glenmary Father Guppenberger, former Andrews pastor, dies aged 81 CINCINNATI, Ohio — Father August “Gus” Guppenberger, 81, a native of Batavia, N.Y., and a Glenmary Home Missioner for 59 years, died Nov. 6, 2016, in Cincinnati, Ohio.

The Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Nov. 15, 2016, at St. Matthias Church in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Father Gus brought his outgoing personality to missions and ministries in five states: Ohio, North Guppenberger Carolina, Texas, Georgia and Kentucky. Along with his ministerial efforts, Father Gus was known for his white beard and a joyful demeanor that allowed him to play Santa Claus for children each winter.

“Father Gus was a man who bestowed and received the joy of the Gospel,” Glenmary president Father Chet Artysiewicz said.

“He delighted that he was able to elicit joyful responses through his Santa Claus portrayal. And throughout his travels, the people and customs he encountered touched him with joyful gratitude.”

Father Guppenberger professed his first oath as a Glenmarian in 1957 and was ordained a priest in 1961.

His pastoral year was served in Buck Creek, near Marion. From there he became part-time (and later full-time) associate pastor in Dahlonega, Ga. In 1963 he became associate pastor in Statesboro, Ga., and late in 1964 he returned to Cincinnati to work in promotions.

After a time as associate pastor in Jefferson, Texas, Father Guppenberger was named pastor of St. Mary of the Woods Mission in Franklin, Ky., on April 1, 1966.

He was called back to serve in Cincinnati for a time in promotions and as local superior, but returned to Franklin from 1972 until 1975.

His next pastorate was at Holy Redeemer Church in Andrews from 1976 to 1986. He then administered parishes in West Liberty, Ky., and Waynesboro, Ga., before becoming pastor of the Waynesboro mission in 1987.

He served as associate pastor in Cleveland, Ga., in 1989. He also served in Sylvania, Ga. In 1990 he returned to Cincinnati to serve in the mission office. For years after serving in this capacity, he held the record for most mission appeals by any Glenmary missioner. From 1998 to 2004 he served as assistant house director of the Glenmary residence.

His last assignment before taking senior membership in late 2004 was as Mission Cooperation Program Coordinator for the Mission Education Ministry Office.

He was the sixth of seven children born to August and Mary Guppenberger.

His parents preceded him in death. He is survived by brothers Francis (Carol), James and Joseph Guppenberger; sisters Mary (John W.) Yunker, Helene (Bob) Beuler, Lois (John) Gringer and Barbara Guppenberger; fellow missioners and friends.

Memorials may be made to Glenmary Home Missioners, P.O. Box 465618, Cincinnati, Ohio 45246, or at www. glenmary.org.

— Catholic News Herald

Father Edmund McCaffrey, former Belmont abbot, dies at 83 CHARLESTON, S.C. — Father Edmund McCaffrey, a retired priest of the Diocese of Charleston who was a former Benedictine monk and former abbot of Belmont Abbey, died Nov. 13, 2016.

He died in Louisville, Ky., where he resided with the Little Sisters of the Poor.

He was 83.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at noon on Monday, Nov. 28, 2016, at St. Michael Church in Garden City, S.C. Father McCaffrey helped found St. Michael Church in 1976 and was its first pastor.

Visitation will be from 7 to 9 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27, and from 9-11 a.m.

McCaffrey Monday, Nov. 28, at the church. There will be a prayer vigil service at 7:15 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27, also at St. Michael Church.

As a Benedictine, he was a founder and former head of the political science department at Belmont Abbey College, as well as a visiting professor and writer, then abbot of the Belmont Abbey monastery. He was incardinated in the Diocese of Charleston Oct. 1, 1993.

In the diocese, he served at St. Andrew Parish in Myrtle Beach, was the priest in charge of the Garden City Catholic Community, helped found St. Michael in Garden City at Murrells Inlet, and served as pastor at Divine Redeemer Church in Hanahan.

He retired Jan. 1, 2003, after serving as pastor of Holy Family Church on Hilton Head Island.

Even in retirement, he spent time traveling, giving retreats and parish missions all over the country.

“I’m proud of the work I did at St. Michael Church,” he said in a 2008 interview with The Catholic Miscellany, Charleston’s diocesan newspaper. “When I started, it was a little church and we didn’t have any money, but what we built has become one of the largest parishes in

South Carolina.”

Father McCaffrey was an avid supporter of vocations, and in 1974 he served as co-founder of the Institute on Religious Life in Chicago with Jesuit Father John Hardon, Bishop James J. Hogan of Altoona-Johnstown, Pa., and William Isaacson. He was executive vice president and executive director from 1975 to 1980.

The institute’s mission is to promote the growth and renewal of consecrated religious life. He started the organization when he was abbot of Belmont Abbey.

“We wanted to preserve the gift of consecrated life as envisioned by Vatican II, which not only included religious but the laity, too,” said the priest.

Father McCaffrey received the institute’s 2003 Pro Fidelitate et Virtute Award for manifesting “notable support and promotion of the consecrated life.”

In 1990, Fathers McCaffrey and Hardon also were two of the co-founders of Eternal Life, a Catholic pro-life organization that would focus more on the educational aspect of pro-life work.

In the first few years, they held more than 20 “Make a Moral Miracle Happen Conferences” all over the country.

Father McCaffrey returned to Myrtle Beach in 2003 because he had so many friends there. Besides giving retreats and parish missions, he led more than 23 pilgrimages to Fatima in Portugal and still tried to go annually.

He said some of his most important work was promoting the sacraments.

“I like to talk about the Eucharist and the importance of confession,” the priest said. “Those are my main apostolic works.

I preach about those things all the time.”

He was born Jan. 9, 1933, in Savannah, Ga., to Joseph E. McCaffrey and Ruby Elizabeth Johnson Fairbanks McCaffrey.

He was a graduate of Belmont Abbey Preparatory School, Belmont Abbey College and Belmont Abbey Seminary in Belmont, and The Catholic University of mccaffrey, SEE page 24

Fr. Kobel passes away aged 70 BEACON, N.Y. — Capuchin Franciscan Father Stanislaus W. Kobel, 70, passed away Nov. 12, 2016, at St. Lawrence Friary Infirmary in Beacon, N.Y. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Nov. 17, 2016, at St. Lawrence Friary.

Burial followed at the St. Lawrence Friary Cemetery.

He was born in Philadelphia on Oct. Kobel 16, 1946, the son of the late Stanislaus W. Kobel Sr. and Margaret Bonner Kobel. He graduated in 1964 from St. Joseph’s Prep High School in Philadelphia and then in 1968 from St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. He was a successful businessman in the fields of accounting, management, marketing and economics.

He entered the postulancy program of the Capuchin Franciscan Friars Province

of the Sacred Stigmata of St. Francis on Aug. 27, 1989, at St. Lawrence Friary. He made his first profession of vows on Aug. 3, 1991. He was ordained a priest on Sept.

7, 1996, at Immaculate Conception Church in Bronx, N.Y., by Bishop William G. Curlin of Charlotte.

Father Kobel served in ministry in various dioceses, including at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Passaic, N.J., and as a hospital chaplain at St. Mary’s Hospital in Passaic, both of which are located in the Diocese of Paterson. He served for many years as parochial vicar at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Charlotte.

Father Kobel is survived by his brother, John Kobel; his sisters, Kathleen Gartland and Peggy Keasler; five nephews and one niece; and three great-nephews and five great-nieces.

To send personal condolences, go online to www.halveyfh.com.

Peter T. and Patrick J. Halvey of Halvey Funeral Home Inc. in Beacon, N.Y., were in charge of the arrangements.

— Catholic News Herald

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Mercy Sister Joseph Marie Perez dies BELMONT — Sister Joseph Marie Perez, a Sister of Mercy for 69 years, died Nov. 6, 2016, at Marian Center, Sacred Heart Convent in Belmont, after an extended illness.

The Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Nov. 10, 2016, in the Cardinal Gibbons Chapel at Sacred Heart Convent, followed Perez by interment at Belmont Abbey Cemetery in Belmont.

A native of Agana, Guam, Josefina Perez was born May 15, 1930, the third of nine children of Vicente Borja Perez and his wife Maria Pangelinan.

Growing up during the Japanese occupation in World War II, she was profoundly affected by the experiences of suffering, hunger and uncertainty.

However, she was grateful for the liberation of Guam and American efforts to rebuild. After the war, she attended public schools in Agana and Sinajana and George Washington High School in Mongmong and recalled the struggle to catch up academically with her peers.

When the Sisters of Mercy came to Guam in 1946, she was attracted to the sisters’ way of life. She entered the fledging community with the second group of postulants on Dec. 12, 1947.

She received the habit and a new name, Sister Joseph Marie, on Dec. 6, 1948, and professed final vows at the cathedral in Agana on Aug. 13, 1956.

Sister Joseph Marie’s mentor, Sister Inez Underwood, noticed her ability to learn languages and encouraged her to pursue Latin. She was sent to Mount Mercy College in Pittsburgh, Pa., where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Latin with minors in education and biology. She later earned a master’s degree in educational supervision and administration from the University of Guam.

Sister Joseph Marie ministered as a teacher at the Academy of Our Lady in Agana, St. Anthony School in Tamuning, and at Santa Barbara School in Dededo as a teacher and principal. She also did pastoral ministry at St. Joseph’s Parish in Inarajan and worked at the Richard F. Taitano Micronesian Area Research Center at the University of Guam and at Infant of Prague Nursery and Kindergarten in Mangilao.

Sister Joseph Marie was well known for her cooking and baking skills which fulfilled her desire to serve others. She also enjoyed writing poetry, painting, gardening and playing the piano.

She had lived at Marian Center in Belmont since March 2015.

Sister Joseph Marie’s life is summed up in her ring motto: “O Crux Dulcis, Adoro Te, Amo’ Te” or “O Sweet Cross of Jesus, I adore You, I love You!” Sister Joseph Marie is survived by her brothers Ignacio and Eddie, her sisters-in-law, Sylvia and Remedio, and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.

— Catholic News Herald

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catholicnewsherald.com | November 25, 2016 OUR PARISHES

Celebrating black Catholic identity Black Catholic popes, saints Black Catholic history can be traced to the Acts of the Apostles (8:26-40) when St. Philip the Deacon converted the Ethiopian eunuch – one of the first moves the Apostles made to evangelize outside Jerusalem and thus sow the seeds for the universal Church.

Christianity spread throughout North Africa, and the region featured prominently in the early Church as the birthplace of saints, popes and Western monasticism.

Three popes of the early Church were born in north Africa: n Pope St. Victor I (189-198 or 199): He was the first pope to celebrate the liturgy and write Church documents in Latin rather than Greek.

He is most famous for decreeing that Easter be universally celebrated on a Sunday, a practice already common in the West, but not so in the East. His feast day is July 28. n Pope St. Miltiades (also called St. Melchiades) (311-314): He was pope when Constantine the Great defeated his enemies and assumed control over Rome, paving the way to St. Victor the end of persecution of Christians. Constantine gave the pope the Lateran palace (now known as the Papal Archbasilica of St. John Lateran), which became the papal residence and seat of Christian governance. He was the last pope to be buried in a catacomb. His feast day is Dec. 10. n Pope St. Gelasius I (492-496): The first pope to be called the Vicar of Christ, he is most famous for affirming the primacy of the papacy based on Jesus’ command naming Peter the “rock of the Church.” He promoted a type of “separation of St. Miltiades Church and State” but emphasized that Church authority is always superior to civil law. He ordered reception of the Eucharist under both species, and he used his own funds and the papal lands to feed the poor of Rome during a severe famine. His feast day is Nov. 21.

Other black saints include: n St. Perpetua and St. Felicity: Just after the death of Pope St. Victor I, St. Perpetua and St. Felicity underwent their martyrdom in Carthage, around 203. St. Perpetua was a young, well-educated noblewoman and mother living in St. Gelasius Carthage in North Africa. At the age of 22, she was jailed for her faith. While in prison she continued to care for her infant child and put up with tortures designed to make her renounce her faith. St. Perpetua was sacrificed at the games as a public spectacle. St. Felicity was a pregnant slave girl who was imprisoned with her. Little is known about her life because, Sts. Perpetua and Felicity unlike Perpetua, she did not keep a diary. Only a few days before her execution, Felicity gave birth to a daughter, who was secretly taken away to be cared for by some of the faithful. They share the feast day of March 7, and their names are forever mentioned together in the Roman Canon of the Mass. n St. Martin de Porres: The only black saint from the Western Hemisphere so far, St. Martin de Porres was born in Lima, Peru, in 1579. His mother was a freed slave from Panama, and his St. Martin father was a Spanish gentleman who did not want de Porres him. Early in his life, he demonstrated humility, charity for the poor and a love for animals, and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. At the age of 11, he took a job as a servant in the Dominican friary in Lima and performed the work with such devotion that he was called “the saint of the broom.” He spent the rest of his life in the friary – as a barber, farm laborer, almoner (church worker in charge of distributing money to the poor) and infirmarian (person who nurses the sick in a monastery), among other tasks. In recognition of his devotion, his superiors dropped the stipulation that “no black person may be received to the holy habit or profession of our order” and Martin was vested in the full habit and professed solemn vows as a Dominican brother. Afterwards, he became more devout and more desirous to be of service, establishing an orphanage and a children’s hospital. A close friend of St. Rose of Lima, he died on Nov. 3, 1639, and was canonized on May 6, 1962. His feast day is Nov. 3.

More online At www.catholicnewsherald.com: Read more about these and other saints and notable black Catholic leaders, including St. Charles Lwanga and Companions, St. Moses the Black, the Scillitan martyrs, St. Josephine Bakhita, Father Augustus Tolton, Mother Henriette Delille, Mother Mary Elizabeth Lange, Pierre Toussaint and Sister Thea Bowman.

Photos by Patricia L. Guilfoyle | Catholic News Herald

More than 125 people from across the Diocese of Charlotte, including Naomi McDowell Byrd from Our Lady of Consolation Church, participated in a Day of Reflection at the Catholic Conference Center in Hickory, sponsored by the diocesan African American Affairs Ministry. The program featured a talk by Rev. Canon A. Gerard Jordan of Daylesford Abbey in Paoli, Pa., who spoke on the life of Father Augustus Tolton, the Church’s first recognizable African American priest. Father Jordan is pictured below with Our Lady of Consolation Church’s Youth in Action members.

Black Catholics reflect: Look to the past for how to live one’s faith today Life of Father Tolton, his family held up as example Patricia L. Guilfoyle Editor

HICKORY — Black Catholics must learn and embrace their history if they want to serve Jesus Christ and His Church in a more profound manner when facing the challenges of today.

That was one of the messages from Rev. Canon A. Gerard Jordan of Daylesford Abbey in Paoli, Pa., and Deacon Curtiss Todd of Our Lady of Consolation Church in Charlotte during a Day of Reflection Nov. 19 at the Catholic Conference Center, hosted by the Diocese of Charlotte’s African American Affairs Ministry in honor of Black Catholic History Month.

The annual event drew more than 125 people from parishes in Asheville, Charlotte, Greensboro, Monroe and Winston-Salem.

Father Jordan serves as special assistant to the postulator heading up the cause of sainthood for Father Augustus Tolton, the Church’s first recognizable African American priest.

Father Jordan gave a detailed account of Father Tolton’s life, even enlisting young audience members from Our Lady of Consolation Parish’s Youth in Action group to portray members of the Tolton family as he told his stories.

Using St. Paul’s Second Letter to the Corinthians, 4:711, as the theme for his talk, he encouraged participants to look to Father Tolton and his family as an example of Christian witness.

Augustus Tolton was born a slave in 1854 on a plantation near Brush Creek, Mo. His father left to join the Union Army during the Civil War. In 1862, his mother escaped with her three children by rowing them across the Mississippi River and settling in Quincy, Ill. She insisted on raising her family Catholic in their

new home, and the entire Tolton family became active in their parish. Young “Gus” showed great devotion to God at a young age, but he had to leave one Catholic

school because of threats of bullying. He found a haven at St. Peter Parish and School, where he learned to read and write and was confirmed at age 16.

He was encouraged to discern his vocation to the priesthood by the local foreign-born white priests. The Franciscans who taught him at St. Francis College (now Quincy University) helped him gain acceptance to a seminary in Rome, since none in the United States would accept him. He was ordained for the Propaganda Fide Congregation in Rome in 1886, expecting to become a missionary in Africa. Instead, he was sent back to Quincy, where he eventually served as pastor in one FAITH, SEE page 9

November 25, 2016 | catholicnewsherald.com

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Celebrating black Catholic identity

Besides the day’s talk on the life of Father Augustus Tolton, Deacon Curtiss Todd of Our Lady of Consolation Church in Charlotte (below) encouraged black Catholics to learn their history if they want to serve Jesus Christ and His Church in facing the challenges of today’s world.

FAITH FROM PAGE 8

of the local parishes. There he endured racism, physical threats and abuse from white parishioners and fellow clergy until he moved to the Archdiocese of Chicago in 1889.

In 1894 Father Tolton spearheaded the building of St. Monica Church for the growing number of black Catholics in Chicago. He became widely popular for his service to the poor, his preaching, and his commitment to ministering to Catholics of all ethnicities and backgrounds. Working himself to exhaustion, he died on July 9, 1897, at the age of 43, after suffering heat stroke upon returning home from a retreat for the priests of the archdiocese.

Father Tolton is among four black Catholics celebrated in the African American Catholic community whose sainthood causes have been opened. The Vatican is now reviewing the 3,000 pages of documents from Church and civil archives on Father Tolton’s life, as well as documentation for two reported miracles attributed to his intercession and over 50 sworn testimonials of people who say they received a divine favor through his aid.

Through his detailed investigation into Father Tolton’s life, Father Jordan said he has been inspired by the priest in his own ministry as the first black in his abbey community just outside Philadelphia.

“It was his knowing and his love for the Gospel that spilled over into my life,” Father Jordan said, enabling him to overcome the racism and other obstacles he experienced on his own journey to the priesthood.

Father Tolton’s spirituality flowed from the Eucharist, Father Jordan noted.

“Everything he did started from the altar.”

Today, he continued, black Catholics must be strengthened by the sacraments, especially the Eucharist. Attending Mass, and insisting that one’s children also go to Mass, is about getting spiritual nourishment that “allows us to be renewed so we can make it six more days out of the week,” he said.

Daily prayer and the cultivation of silence are also important to deepening one’s relationship with God, he said.

And just as Father Tolton and his family did, black Catholics today must apply their faith in every aspect of their lives, he said.

Serving the parish in various ministries

not there just because your mama signed you up. You’re not there just because you got a house in the neighborhood.

You’re not even there because you bought the bricks and mortar that built the place. You’re there because of your ancestors who honored their baptism!

Somebody say ‘Amen!’” To which everyone enthusiastically replied, “Amen!”

Father Jordan entreated participants to take what they learn and “use it in your ministry ... or you’ve wasted your time.”

Father Jordan’s account of the life of Father Tolton was “very interesting, very inspiring,” said George Desmond of St. Benedict the Moor Church in WinstonSalem.

The day’s program also included a talk

by Deacon Curtiss Todd, former vice chancellor of the diocese, who spoke about black Catholic identity and the need for black Catholics to make their voices heard in the Church and in the

wider community. He lamented the lack of diversity in Church leadership, including in the Charlotte diocese, and he chastised black Catholics’ inaction and negligence in fulfilling their baptismal call.

The Catholic Church is not exclusively a white, European domain, Deacon Todd noted, nor has it ever been. He said black Catholics must learn their history – including learning about black saints and the Church’s African popes – so that they may claim their rightful place in the Church today, combat the injustice and racism that are endemic in society, and pass this rich heritage down to the next generation.

The Day of Reflection was “fantastic,” said Mary Abbott, a member of Our Lady of Consolation Church in Charlotte.

“Amazing,” echoed fellow parishioners Naomi McDowell Byrd and Catherine Gomez, who also serves as a board member with the diocesan African American Affairs Ministry.

such as lectors or parish council members, helping the poor with more than just an occasional hand-out, educating and motivating young people, respecting and remaining close to one’s elders -- these are responsibility of every Catholic, but especially for black Catholics.

“Because (his spirituality) was rooted in the Gospel,” Father Jordan said, Father Tolton “took his success and remained faithful ... Quit teaching your children to be successful. Teach them to be faithful.

We have lost that. Y’all want them to be doctors and lawyers and judges and priests and nuns, and you say, ‘Be successful.

Travis Burton | Catholic News Herald

CHARLOTTE — The Girl Scout troop of Our Lady of Consolation Church hosted a shoe cutting service project Nov. 5, cutting show patterns from old jeans. The cutouts will be sent to Uganda to make shoes for children in need.

Make momma and daddy proud.’ Teach them to be faithful no matter where they are in life.”

The Tolton family and the religious who taught the young boy were essential to his becoming a priest despite all the odds, Father Jordan said. He pleaded with people to encourage religious vocations among young men and women today.

“It took a whole community to get this man to Rome to study and endure the bigotry and racism and hardships of life, but he got there – and it wasn’t on his own,” he said.

“Your first church is your household.

You’re the pastor. Your very first school is your household. You’re the teacher,” he emphasized.

He said Father Tolton and his family serve as an example to all black Catholic families today, to encourage them to keep moving on their path to holiness. That heritage must be honored by learning about and living one’s faith, he said.

“It was families like his and others who allow us to worship in the church of our choice, the church of our baptism! You’re

Travis Burton | Catholic News Herald

CHARLOTTE — The award-winning Perpetual Hope Gospel Choir performed their annual concert Nov. 13 at Our Lady of Consolation Church.

Did you know?

On July 24, 1990, the National Black Catholic Clergy Caucus of the United States designated November as Black Catholic History Month to celebrate the history and heritage of black Catholics. November is significant because two important black saints are commemorated within the month: St. Martin de Porres’ feast day (Nov. 3) and St. Augustine’s birthday (Nov. 13). With All Saints and All Souls’ Day, we also remember the saints and souls of Africa and the African Diaspora.

Learn more At www.nbccongress. org: Learn more about the National Black Catholic Congress and its upcoming events, download educational resources and get vocation information

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catholicnewsherald.com | November 25, 2016 OUR PARISHES

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Young adult Advent retreats coming up in Charlotte

In Brief

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Frank Bollero, Mickey Brantley, Deacon Charles Brantley, and Father Thomas J. Kessler, pastor.

— Connie Ries

40 Days for Life campaign tour passes through North Carolina CHARLOTTE — The international 40 Days for Life campaign leadership passed through Charlotte, finishing a 50-state tour Nov. 5. The event drew close to 100 people, Catholic and Protestant, and featured David Bereit, the CEO of the 40 Days for Life campaign, as well Steve Karlen, the 40 Days for Life North America campaign director. Local pro-life leaders also spoke including Andrea Hines, leader of Silent No More and a St. Ann parishioner who shared the trauma she experienced from an abortion and encouraged post-abortive women to seek help and healing.

The event also drew a handful of protestors which the 40 Days for Life team later noted was one of the more angrier (albeit small) group of protestors. After the event, several people stayed behind to pray the rosary for an end to abortion. The 40 Days for Life campaign tour also visited Winston-Salem and Raleigh before ending in Virginia Nov. 6, the final day of the campaign.

— Mike FitzGerald and Gretchen Filz, correspondents

CHARLOTTE — St. Patrick Cathedral and St. Peter Church are each planning Advent retreats geared for young adults in December.

At St. Patrick Cathedral, young adults are invited to an evening of prayer, praise and fellowship entitled “Build Bethlehem: Preparing room in the ‘Inn of our hearts’,” on Thursday, Dec. 1. The program begins at 6:30 p.m. with exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, followed by a mission talk by Father Richard Sutter, parochial vicar. St. Patrick Cathedral is located at 1621 Dilworth Road East.

St. Peter Church will offer an Ignatian Spirituality Advent Retreat for young adults (aged 20-30) entitled “Awakened ...

Surrendered, Hope in Troubled Times” from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 30, in Biss Hall (below the church, located at 507 S. Tryon St.) The program will include a scriptural reflection, contemplative prayer, private meditation and fellowship. The retreat will also be held for adults of all ages from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 3. Go online to www.stpeterscatholic.org for details and registration information.

— Catholic News Herald

Holy Family prays Missionary Rosary CLEMMONS — The Hispanic Ministry of Holy Family Church celebrated a Missionary Rosary Oct. 21. Five families prayed the sorrowful mysteries, wearing colors that represented each continent: green for Africa, red for America, white for Europe, blue for Oceania and yellow for Asia.

— Lyzbeth Roman

3 Statesville parishioners honored

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STATESVILLE — St. Philip the Apostle Church presented the Jewell Award to three parishioners Nov. 12: Frank Bollero, Deacon Charles Brantley and his wife Mickey Brantley.

This award recognizes members’ dedication and selfless giving to the parish community.

Bollero is the founder and past director of the parish’s food closet. He has also served as a parish greeter and usher, parish council member and Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, and he is a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Deacon and Mickey Brantley joined the parish more than 50 years ago. They have been very involved with Cursillo as well as the Charismatic Prayer Group, and they served as co-chairmen for RCIA at the parish. Ordained in 1988, Deacon Brantley also served as parish council chairman and grand knight of the local Knights of Columbus council. Mrs. Brantley continues to take Communion to the homebound of the parish.

Pictured (from left) are: Audrey Bollero,

SPX Knights give their time to support L.A.M.B. GREENSBORO — St. Pius X Knights of Columbus Council 11101 spent Oct. 1 at the Harris Teeter on Westridge Square, soliciting donations on behalf of L.A.M.B., (Least Among My Brethren), an organization dedicated to assisting persons with intellectual disabilities.

So far this year the Knights have raised more than $8,000 in support of this charity. Pictured are (from left): Jim Scott, Bob Buron, Eddie Humphrey, Sam Waters and Pete Guilmette.

— John Russell IN BRIEF, SEE page 11

November 25, 2016 | catholicnewsherald.com

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Doreen Sugierski | Catholic News Herald

Lap robes for veterans DENVER — At the request of the Knights of Columbus Council 10389 at Holy Spirit Church, the ladies of the parish’s Blanket and Shawl Ministry began making red, white and blue lap robes for veterans in Salisbury as a thank-you for their service to the United States. The project was enthusiastically received and some of the ladies bought their own yarn and went to work. As word spread about the project, other ladies in and outside of the parish wanted to be involved. The Knights contacted Coats & Clark and asked for a donation of yarn. They were kind enough to contribute six cases of red, white and blue yarn. The Knights also bought yarn from their funds. The project started in mid-February and by the end of October, more than 190 of the 210 lap robes needed were completed by 35 ladies. The Knights delivered the first 125 lap robes to veterans on Nov. 3. The remainder will be delivered soon when they are finished.

IN BRIEF FROM PAGE 10

highest amount for the fundraiser.

Holy Spirit participants included Jim Barbara, Jeff DiCosmo, Judy Gais, Steve and Janet Schmerber, Maureen Malmstrom, Gary and Linda Peterson, Christie Sherwood, and Father Carmen Malacari, pastor.

— Doreen Sugierski, correspondent

Busy September for Brevard parishioners

Clemmons Knights support Operation L.A.M.B. CLEMMONS — Members of Knights of Columbus Council 9499 once again were an active part of the annual Buddy Walk for Down Syndrome (Operation L.A.M.B.). This year’s event grew to include more than 4,000 people, and Knights at the event included Past Grand Knights Dale Herbstritt, Dennis Monaghan and Brian Sternecker, and Financial Secretary Mike Brown.

— Brian Sternecker

BREVARD — Three events in September provided opportunities for Catholics in the Brevard area to learn and grow spiritually. First, Nick Haskell of the Asheville Catholic Charities office presented a program on the U.S. bishops’ document “Faithful Citizenship.” Second, there was an all-day “Life in the Spirit” workshop attended by parishioners from Sacred Heart, Immaculate Conception and St. Margaret of Scotland churches. Third, there was the fourday visit of Dr. Amy-Jill Levine to Brevard. Dr. Levine is an international known Biblical scholar.

Each of her presentations to overflow audiences covered different topics from the story of David and Bathsheba to “How Jews and Christians view Jesus differently.” Her visit was sponsored

by Koinonia of Brevard and Brevard College.

— Dorice Narins, correspondent We welcome your parish’s news! Please email news items to Editor Patricia L. Guilfoyle at catholicnews@ charlottediocese.org.

Join the movement & give back Join the global celebration of generosity on November 29, 2016 with #GIVINGTUESDAY. Please participate in Giving Tuesday and give back to make a difference for your neighbors in need with a donation to Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte.

Your support on #GivingTuesday will directly minister to children and families in need of hope and assistance. Every donation will help provide food, clothing, housing, mentoring, counseling, employment and so much more.

Make a donation and help strengthen families, build stronger communities and reduce poverty today!

• Donate online at ccdoc.org/donate • Mail your donation to the Central Processing Office: 1123 S. Church Street – Charlotte, NC 28203 • Call 704-370-3281 to make a donation by phone

Holy Spirit parishioners raise money for pregnancy center DENVER — The 10th annual Walk/Run/Ride for Life, which supports the Pregnancy Care Center of Denver, was held Sept. 10. More than 20 local churches were involved, with more than 100 participants at the walk. The walk raised $27,811, including $2,380 from parishioners of Holy Spirit Church and the local Knights of Columbus. The Denver parish raised the fourth-

Looking for other ways to give back on #GivingTuesday? Consider becoming a volunteer in the Catholic Charities office near you. Visit ccdoc. org/volunteers for opportunities in your area.

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catholic news

Room At The Inn

Dixon Self-sufficiency program: The maternity home program provides transportation to school, vocational programs and to work. Additionally, life skills education including topics such as budgeting, job searching, household management, handling credit, time management and other topics are provided on-site at the maternity home.  100 % of residents acquired or maintained vocational skills  381 Self-sufficiency case management/counseling sessions were conducted  627 Self-sufficiency related transportation trips were provided to clients

Room At The Inn is a unique, comprehensive program helping homeless, single, pregnant women from all areas of North Carolina, not only during their pregnancies but also after the birth of their babies. By providing shelter, food, clothing, case management, child care, transportation and life skills education in a structured environment, we help these families have new lives of healthy, hope-filled selfsufficiency.

Pratt Proverbs 31 Program: Residents in the maternity home programs are invited to participate in the Pratt Proverbs 31 Program. Participants get involved in the faith community of their choice and/or suitable volunteer programs. Participants are able to . grow spiritually and as responsible, caring women. Participation is ... completely voluntary and no client is denied other services for … declining to participate in this program.

“The service that this organization provides is exceptional. It is respectful, supportive, continuous and enduring. The outcomes have been very impressive” The Nussbaum Maternity Home

Council on Accreditation Final Accreditation Report

The Council on Accreditation accredits human service organizations that meet the highest standards of credibility, integrity and accountability and that implement best practices throughout their agencies. We are proud to be the only catholic maternity home in the southeastern United States to have received this national recognition.

Transitioning from dependency and hopelessness is a difficult process for anyone, especially for someone about to become a new mother. Room At The Inn offers a variety of programs designed to help these young women develop the skills necessary to successfully meet their own goals and aspirations.

Maternity Home: Licensed by the NC Department of Health and Human Services to provide residential maternity care, the Mary C. Nussbaum Maternity Home provides shelter, food, clothing, transportation, case management and life skills education in a structured environment. Located in Greensboro, NC, the home provides services to homeless, pregnant NC residents 18 years and older.

Clients may bring other children.  89 % of graduates 18 years of age or older increased their income  89 % of maternity home graduates transitioned to permanent housing Maternal and Infant Health: Access to both pre-natal and post-natal healthcare is essential for pregnant women. Infants and toddlers require proper check-ups and healthcare. A significant number of our clients suffer from substance abuse and/or mental health issues and need suitable treatment and counseling. Additionally our maternity home programs provide life skills education related to healthy living, proper nutrition for the women and children and a safe, nurturing place to heal both the body and the soul.

• 9 Babies were born • 100% of babies born had APGAR scores of 8 or more • 100% of babies tested were born drug free

Aftercare Program: The graduates of our programs continue to be an important part of our family even after the birth of their children. Quarterly alumni meetings are conducted at the maternity home. Clients are eligible for material assistance for up to five years after the birth of their children.

College Program: Graduates of the maternity home programs who want to enter or return to college are eligible for our Supported Community Living Services for Single Mothers attending College. In addition to housing, we provide case management,child development services, financial/material assistance and tutoring/life skills education.

Residential services are provided at the following facilities: The Amy's House is located next door to our maternity home and was named for Amy Elizabeth Disney The Back Yard Ministry is donated space from Cherry Street United Methodist Church in Kernersville  100 % of participants are making progress toward completing their degree Ways YOU can help save lives and provide a future of hope:  Use the envelope in this issue of the Catholic News Herald to send a financial contribution  Give a gift in honor of someone for Christmas with our honor cards  Give in memory of a loved one or in honor of someone’s birthday or other special occasion  Spread the word  Like us on facebook  Leave a legacy of LIFE put us in your will  Pray  Volunteer  Participate in fundraisers  Donate items

On b of mothers an we pray that families have a B and New Year! Tha “room at

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November 25, 2016 | catholicnewsherald.comiii

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college and is working to get her license back. Keeping busy and preparing for Casey made a difference in her outlook each day.

As Casey wiggled in her arms, her thoughts turned to the next few months. She was admitted into Room At The Inn’s College Program where she can continue her work with us as she completes her education. Because of her hard work and doing so many extra chores, a used car that had been given to the ministry had been promised to her once she got her license back and could afford to insure it.

Although Christmas is still a few weeks away, she already feels like she has received more from Santa than she ever has before!

Maria’s story is not unique. Currently, we have 11 mothers in our maternity home and supported community living program, 7 unborn children, 5 newborns, and 6 toddlers! Each mother’s story is unique: 3 are in college and 2 are hoping to get accepted. 3 are getting their GED’s and others are working part-time or looking for work.

Maria was so tired. It had been a long, difficult pregnancy and lots of false alarms when she would go to the hospital ready to give birth only to be sent home again. What a stubborn little boy she was going to have, she thought to herself as she slowly made her way up the steps to her bedroom to rest.

A couple of days later, little Casey was born. As she looked down on his sweetbut-scrunched-up face, she felt like she has just run a marathon. She wanted to sleep, but the joy she felt was keeping her up. She thought about how much her life had changed since she had moved into the maternity home back in June. She had been so nervous at first. New people, new surroundings. She was glad to be trying to better herself, but she recognized that change is difficult. She was older than the other women in the house but felt welcomed by the staff and volunteers.

A few years before, she had been on a better road.

Attending community college, working and generally happy and self-sufficient, it never occurred to her how quickly life could change. She started partying too much and ended up dropping out of school. Eventually, she lost her driver’s license and her ability to get to work. She was embarrassed and felt hopeless. She seemed to get further and further away from the person she wanted to be.

Finding out she was pregnant got her focused quickly! The baby’s father did not want to be involved and her family was not able to really help in any significant way. Her mom and friends loved her, but she was on her own. When she made that call to Room At The Inn, she was glad she would be able to get support and shelter, but life still seemed so empty. Having a baby only made her worry more.

Once she got used to the structure and program rules at the home, she fit right in. She enjoyed taking personal morning walks to clear her head and it brought her joy when the staff and other mothers would thank her for always helping out in whatever ways she could . Because she was depressed, she started attending counseling which helped her get a sense of herself and her worth. As the summer turned to fall and little Casey was kicking her insides, she starting feeling hopeful again. She was able to return to

Pictured here are 9 of the mothers in our program currently. One of our moms could not be in the picture because she was at work and one could not be in it because she was in hospital giving birth!

Have people on your Christmas list who are hard to buy for? Why not make a donation to Room At The Inn in their honor?

Honor cards are now available. Use the envelope in this issue to send us your request by December 16th to ensure processing and delivery by Christmas Eve.

behalf our nd children, you and your Blessed Christmas ank you for making t the inn”.

CONTACT US: PO Box 13936 Greensboro, NC 27415 (336) 996-3788 Phone (336) 275-9522 Fax Email: info@RoomInn.org For More Information, visit us at: www.RoomInn.org

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catholicnewsherald.com |November 25, 2016 14

¡Viva Cristo Rey! Father Joshua Voitus

E

l pasado Domingo, 20 de Noviembre, celebramos la fiesta de Cristo Rey. Al reflexionar en el Evangelio de ese Domingo, le hice esta pregunta a mi congregación: ¿Cuál es la idea que nosotros tenemos cuando pensamos en un rey? Nos imaginamos, casi sin excepción, en una persona que es poderosa, que tiene autoridad sobre los demás, y las otras personas le obedecen. Despues me pregunté a mi mismo: ¿Por que el Evangelio para esta celebración no menciona las grandes obras de Cristo? Por supuesto que si Cristo es un rey, entonces Él tiene todos los atributos de un rey, los cuales acabo de mencionar.

GLOBAL CATHOLIC TOURS OF VA 11 Days Greece-Turkey Sept 6-16, 2017 $3199 2 nights in Istanbul, 3 nights in Athens, 1 night each in Kavala, Thessaloniki, Kalambaka, and Delphi. Optional 3 Day cruise to Greek Islands.

Footsteps of St Paul with Fr McGinnis from Huntington, WV

Es sorprendente entonces, que, el Evangelio de ese ultimo Domingo del Calendario Liturgico de la Iglesia, no se trata acerca de las grandes cosas que Jesús hizo, o habla de su poder, sino que habla acerca de su Crucifixión y Muerte. Incluso, vemos a personas que son testigos de su sufrimiento y se burlan de Jesús y de la idea de que Él es un rey. Ellos, lo mismo que nosotros, esperan ver a un rey que sea poderoso y dominante, pero Jesús en la Cruz no parece ser nada de eso.

Para comprender mejor esta fiesta, tal vez es una buena idea que miremos como se originó. Algunas fiestas de la Iglesia han existido por siglos, e incluso miles de años.

La Pascua de Resurrección, por ejemplo, ha existido por más de 1,500 años y ha sido celebrada de una manera u otra desde el nacimiento de la Iglesia. La fiesta de Cristo Rey, por el contrario, solo ha sido celebrada por cerca de 85 años. Entonces, esta se considera una fiesta bastante nueva en nuestro calendario litúrgico.

Durante la década de 1920, hubo una gran persecución en contra de los sacerdotes, monjes y monjas, y fieles laicos católicos en México. La práctica del catolicismo estaba prohibida en ese país, y cualquier persona que fuera fiel a su fe católica podría ser arrestada, multada y muchos fueron ejecutados. (Es importante que recordemos

13 Days Fatima Spain Oct 1-13, 2017 1 night Lisbon, 3 night Fatima, 2 night Santiago de Compostela, 1 night Burgos, 4 night Madrid. With Fr Goldsmith from Harrisonburg, VA.

que, el 23 de Noviembre, celebramos la fiesta del Beato Miguel Agustín Pro, uno de los sacerdotes que fue asesinado durante esta persecución.)

Las personas que permanecieron fieles a su fe católica, aquellos que estuvieron dispuestos a sufrir y a morir para seguir a Jesús, usualmente declaraban antes de morir, o cuando eran torturadas, “¡Viva Cristo Rey!” Ellos gritaban esto en reconocimiento de que Cristo era su verdadero rey. Y que no poder terrenal podía prevenirles de seguir a su verdadero Señor. Ellos gritaban esto en camino a su muerte porque ellos sabían que si morían con Cristo, ellos a pesar de parecer estar muertos, vivirían para siempre en el reino de Cristo su Rey. El Papa Pio XI, cuando esta persecución estaba ocurriendo, instituyó la fiesta de Cristo Rey, en honor a las personas que estaban siendo perseguidas en México, y que gritaban Cristo Rey al dar sus vidas por amor a Cristo. Estas personas, que parecían estar derrotadas, eran en realidad victoriosas porque por su amor a Dios, vencieron todo, y no se sometieron a los tiranos de la tierra.

Este es el misterio de Cristo Rey. Cristo en la Cruz parece no tener ningún poder.

Cristo parece débil y frágil. Sin embargo, Cristo en la Cruz es en realidad un rey.

Cristo sufre con amor, y Él no se dobla a ningún poder de la tierra o a ningún pecado.

Este un Cristo que considera el amor a Dios y al prójimo sobre todas las cosas, y que transforma la Cruz en un trono sobre el cual Él reina con amor. Cristo transforma esta aparente debilidad en una fortaleza. Cristo transforma su muerte aparente en una gloriosa vida eterna.

Entonces, hermanos y hermanas, imitemos este valor. Imitemos a esos mexicanos que fueron perseguidos, y pongamos nuestro amor a Dios sobre todas las cosas de este mundo, y sobre todo pecado. Estemos dispuestos a morir, antes de traicionar nuestra creencia en Jesucristo, y gritemos ante el pecado y las cosas del mundo: “¡Viva Cristo Rey!” Y declaremos de esa manera, que Cristo es primero en nuestra vida. Imitemos también a Cristo, y permitámosle al amor que conquiste todas las cosas, para que, de esa manera, nuestras debilidades se conviertan en una verdadera fortaleza; y que al morir a las cosas del mundo, se nos otorgue la vida eterna.

Que Dios los bendiga.

El Padre Joshua A. Voitus es el Párroco de la Iglesia Saint Mary, Mother of God, en Sylva. El Padre Voitus celebra Misa de Vigilia Dominical en español todos los sábados a las 7 p.m.

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Antorcha Guadalupana pasa por la Iglesia de San Marcos rumbo a Nueva York CHARLOTTE — Vean este interesante video-corto en el canal diocesano “YouTube” acerca de la visita de la Antorcha Guadalupana a la Diocesis de Charlotte. La primera visita de la Antorcha en la Diócesis este año fue en la Iglesia de San Marcos en Huntersville la noche del 20 de Noviembre.

La Antorcha después visitó cinco parroquias mas: Parroquia de San José, en Newton; San Francisco, en Mocksville; Inmaculado Corazón de María, en High Point; Nuestra Señora de los Caminos, en Thomasville y Santa María, en Greensboro. Este es el 15 año consecutivo que la Antorcha ha pasado por Carolina del Norte.

RICO DE SILVA | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Enjoy a spectacular trip to Ireland with Fr. Timothy Reid Trip highlights include Knock, sites associated with St. Patrick, the Ring of Kerry, the Cliffs of Moher, and Galway.

Departures from Charlotte from $3888/person.

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

Youth Group Activity Events Coordinator St. Luke Catholic Church in Mint Hill has a part-time job opening for a Youth Group Activity/Events Coordinator.

Please visit the St. Luke website at www.stlukechurch.net or Catholicjobs.com for more information.

Our schools

November 25, 2016 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

15

Thank you for serving our country

Photo provided by Robin Fisher

Sacred Heart students host local veterans SALISBURY — Sacred Heart School’s faculty and Student Government Association recently hosted 40 veterans during their annual Veterans Day Morning Assembly and Breakfast. Guest speaker was Rowan County Sheriff Kevin Auten, who reminded students of the history of Veterans Day, the privileges of living in a free country, and the humility they should have in their hearts for veterans and active servicemen and women. Kindergarten students also visited with two veterans: Colette Miller, who served in the U.S. Navy from 1973 to 1978, and Shannon Regan, who served in the U.S. Army from 2005 to 2010.

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief

Alexander inducted into CCHS Hall of Fame CHARLOTTE — Ralph Alexander Jr. was inducted into Charlotte Catholic High School Alumni Association’s Hall of Fame during halftime at the Hall of Fame football game Sept. 30 at Keffer Stadium.

He is pictured above with his family, Principal Kurt Telford, retired Coach Jim Oddo and Coach Ken Hazen, and fellow Hall of Famers (from left): Laura Cowman Guthrie ’93 (tennis), John Berger ’84 (golf), CCHS Alumni Association President Nikki Doulé

Photo provided by Carrie Vest

IHM students thank vets for their service HIGH POINT — Fourth-graders at Immaculate Heart of Mary School made a poster for the VA Medical Center in Kernersville, made up of a collection of mini pictures, to thank local veterans for their service to our country. Students also brought in candy and made 400 goody bags for the vets, and fourth-grade teacher Patty Kidd knitted 10 wheelchair blankets which were also donated.

Warren ’91 (Alumni Association president), Pete McArdle ’87 (soccer) and H.A. “Humpy” Wheeler ‘56.

A 1981 graduate, Alexander lettered in both varsity wrestling and football at Charlotte Catholic, and he was named AllConference in 1978, 1979 and 1980. He was Mecklenburg County Second Team running back in 1978 and 1979, and First Team in 1980. Also in 1980, his senior year, he was captain of the football team and named Most Valuable Player. He earned a full football scholarship to The Citadel, and lettered all four years there. He graduated in 1986 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration.

He remains active with The Citadel, as well as with Our Lady of Consolation Church in Charlotte, where he and his family are members. His professional career includes a background in banking and finance and, as a licensed Realtor, he is the owner of Ralph Alexander Realty and Brokerage Co. At the award presentation, Alexander was joined on the field by his parents, Kaye and Ralph Alexander Sr., his wife Tanita, and their three children, Wesley, Austin and Sean. The Alexanders are a legacy family, as Wesley is a member of Charlotte Catholic’s Class of 2017 and the varsity football team. Austin attends Holy Trinity Middle School, and Sean attends St. Gabriel School.

Fellow Hall of Fame member and Dean of Students Randy Belk said, “Ralph Alexander was a standout athlete at CCHS and is a terrific representative of everything our school stands for. The fact that the Alexanders are a legacy family speaks volumes.

Ralph is well deserving of this award.” Belk, who coached Alexander at Charlotte Catholic, added, “What I remember most about coaching Ralph is his smile. He came to practice every day smiling and ready to work to improve. He made his teammates better players as well. I truly enjoyed coaching Ralph, and I’m very happy he’s now a member of our Hall of Fame.”

The Charlotte Catholic High School Alumni Association is comprised of nearly 10,000 member graduates of Charlotte Catholic High School.

— Carolyn Tillman

Charlotte Catholic’s debate team scores big CHARLOTTE — Twenty-five members of Charlotte Catholic High School’s Debate and Speech Team attended the Sandhoke Early College Tournament Nov. 5 in Raeford, bringing home the second-place award in the Team Sweepstakes. Approximately 275 competitors from 16 schools in the region attended the tournament. Individual awards were also given to: Jake Sheridan, first place, Varsity Lincoln-Douglas Debate; David Edwards, second place, Novice Lincoln-Douglas Debate; Caleb Schilly, fourth place, Varsity Public Forum Debate; Charles Haltiwanger, fourth place, Varsity Public Forum Debate; TJ DiVittorio, fifth place, Varsity Public Forum Debate; Ramsay White, fifth place, Varsity Public Forum Debate; Connor Hudson, fifth place, Novice Lincoln-Douglas Debate; Omeed Arooji, fifth place, Novice Public Forum Debate; Artie Burns, fifth place, Novice Public Forum; Darlene Singui-Tanyi, first place, Dramatic Interpretation, and third place, Program Oral Interpretation; Emily Ford, first place, Impromptu Speaking, and third place, Humorous Interpretation; Myia Le Grande, second place, Dramatic Interpretation; Brenna McBride, third place, Dramatic Interpretation; Devon Ngo, sixth place, Original Oratory; Mariana Rodriguez, third place, Novice Reading; and Samantha Pean, fifth place, Novice Reading.

The 68-member Debate and Speech Team also recently won special recognition from the National Speech & Debate Association. As members of the National Speech & Debate Association honor society, Charlotte Catholic students earn points and degrees based on competitive and service-related activities. Degrees range from the Degree of Merit, with 25 or more points, to the Degree of Premier Distinction, with 1,500 or more points. Students achieved more than 100 degrees last year, and as a result, Charlotte Catholic’s chapter is ranked in the top 23 percent of schools nationwide.

— Carolyn Tillman IN BRIEF, SEE page 16

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catholicnewsherald.com | November 25, 2016 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

IN BRIEF FROM PAGE 15

Prices starting at $2,499 ~ with Airfare Included in this price from anywhere in the USA Several trips to different destinations: the Holy Land; Italy; France, Portugal, & Spain; Poland; Medjugorje, Lourdes, & Fatima; Ireland & Scotland; England; Austria, Germany, & Switzerland; Greece & Turkey; Viking Cruises; Caribbean Cruises; Budapest; Prague; Our Lady of Guadalupe; Colombia; Brazil; Argentina; Domestic Destinations; etc...

We also specialize in custom trips for Bishops, Priests, and Deacons. www.proximotravel.com 508-340-9370 Hablamos Español 855-842-8001 anthony@proximotravel.com Call us 24/7

Regional Business Manager Catholic Charities is seeking a full-time Regional Business Manager for the Winston-Salem Office. Must be detail oriented with the ability to work multiple projects while meeting multiple deadlines. Must be able to read and interpret finance reports and generate reports for ongoing projects. Applicant must be able to coordinate facility management and supervise facility staff. A four-year degree in business administration, business management, finance, accounting or related field is required.

Go to www.ccdoc.org/jobs for more information. Email cover letter and resume (2 pages maximum) by December 9th to lmfranks@charlottediocese.org. No phone inquiries, please.

Working with children and adults with intellectual developmental disabilities and delicate medical conditions.

Volunteer Services Manager: Full-time, some weekends. Manage and direct all volunteer services including management of recruitment, selection, placement, training, scheduling, communication, recognition, evaluation and database processing. Required: management of volunteer programs, excellent communication & organizational skills, Microsoft Office proficiency, database management, high school / GED, minimum age 21. Prefer: 3 years of experience in volunteer management, 4 year degree and Raisers Edge.

Volunteer Services Coordinator: Full-time, some weekends. Coordinate volunteer groups, solicit service projects, obtain and coordinate volunteer service projects from schools, churches, businesses & civic groups. Required: experience in coordination of volunteer groups, excellent communication & organizational skills, Microsoft Office experience, database programming, high school / GED, minimum age 21. 3 years of experience in coordination of volunteer groups, 4 year degree and Raisers Edge.

Human Resources Manager: Full-time, some weekends. Direct and manage human resource systems, activities & employee services, recruitment, retention and recognition, employee training and new employee orientation, benefits administration, performance reviews and records maintenance. Required: HR experience with formal training, excellent communication, analytical & organizational skills, Microsoft Office proficiency, high school / GED, minimum age 21.

Prefer: 4 year degree in related experience and 2 years HR experience.

Apply in person at:

Holy Angels – 6600 Wilkinson Blvd – Belmont, NC 28012 Apply online at: WWW.HolyAngelsNC.com

St. Michael School honored GASTONIA — St. Michael School recently received National Beta Club’s School of Distinction status, which reflects the school’s commitment to academic excellence and illustrates its dedication to preparing students for the future. The National Beta Club is the nation’s largest independent, non-profit, educational youth organization. It is committed to recognizing and promoting high academic achievement, rewarding and nurturing worthy character, improving student leadership skills, and encouraging service to others.

— Tammy Eason

Charlotte Catholic students perform at play festival CHARLOTTE — Members of the Fine Arts Department at Charlotte Catholic High School brought home honors from the 2016 North Carolina Theatre Conference’s High School Play Festival, held at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte Oct. 28-29. The performing arts program, led

by Dottie Tippett and Marcus Riter, made the school and community proud with presentations of “The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon,” for which they earned a good rating, and “The Damned Spot,” for which they won an excellent rating. They also won the Festival Spirit Award, as well as the Theatre Arts Award for Excellence in Ensemble Movement (Annalise Wolf, Sofia Marin and Elizabeth Gregory in “The Damned Spot”), and Excellence in Acting (Eleanore Miechkowski in “The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon”).

For more than 30 years, the NCTC High School Play Festival has strengthened arts education in schools by bringing curriculum to life, challenging students to do their best, and contributing to the development of future audiences for live performing arts. This year, 3,000 students from 90 schools performed 126 plays.

The atmosphere at the Play Festival is positive and exciting, with a 45-minute time limit per performance that includes setting up, performing the play and clearing the stage.

Following their performance, students join their peers in the cheering audience to receive feedback from professional actors and directors.

Let’s keep talking.

— Carolyn Tillman

We welcome your school’s news! Email items to Editor Patricia L. Guilfoyle at plguilfoyle@charlottediocese.org.

Mix

November 25, 2016 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

For the latest movie reviews: catholicnewsherald.com

In theaters

2016 Christmas stamps released

Gabrielle Union). But the roving eye of his son-in-law (JB Smoove) as well as the unresolved grief of his youngest child also threaten to cause yuletide disruption. So too does the sassy tongue of his good-hearted sister-in-law (Mo’nique). As the dysfunction-driven proceedings follow their predictable path. Director uses flashbacks to showcase the model marriage Glover’s character enjoyed. And his script sends the whole clan to an upbeat church service and some of its members to help out at a homeless shelter. A handful of milder oaths, frequent crude language.

CNS: A-III (adults); MPAA: PG-13

Mary holds the Child Jesus in a 15thcentury Florentine painting depicted on one of two religiously-themed Christmas stamps being issued by the U.S. Postal Service this holiday season.

The image was adapted from a work by an anonymous follower of artists Fra Filippo Lippi and Pesellino. The original painting is in the collection of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. The stamp is now available at post offices. A second stamp depicting the Nativity in silhouette against the dawn sky was also released Nov. 3.

‘Arrival’

‘Almost Christmas’ By turns raucous and sentimental, this ensemble comedy charts the efforts of a recently widowed family patriarch (Danny Glover) to keep the peace as his combative relatives gather for the holiday. The principal challenge to his desire for harmony comes from the long-standing rivalry between his two daughters (Kimberly Elise and

Science-fiction drama about an American linguist (Amy Adams) trying to communicate with aliens inside a spacecraft hovering over a Montana field. One of a dozen such vessels that have descended at various spots around the globe and which threaten to trigger panic and geopolitical instability.

Director Denis Villeneuve’s adaptation of a short story by Ted Chiang finds profundity on a human scale as well as in the cosmos; and, while technically impressive, it owes the bulk of its melancholy, mystical power to Adams’ gripping performance. The primary values evinced are consonant with a Catholic worldview. Probably acceptable for mature adolescents.

CNS: A-III (adults); MPAA: PG-13

17

CNS | U.S. Postal Service

On TV n Saturday, Nov. 26, 8 p.m. (EWTN) “Saint Peter.”

The story of the life of St. Peter, the man chosen by Jesus Christ to lead His Church as the first pope.

Featuring acclaimed actor Omar Sharif. Part 1. n Tuesday, Nov. 29, 4:15 p.m. (EWTN) “Love as Jesus Loved: Henry De Osso.” The life of St. Henry De Osso through pictures, music and narration, encouraging your little ones to follow his example by living and loving as Jesus did. n Friday, Dec. 2, 8 p.m. (EWTN) “Blessed Alexandrina Maria Da Costa.” The story of Blessed Alexandrina, who became paralyzed after escaping her attackers but who remained strong in her faith in Christ and was given a

unique vocation known as a “Victim Soul.” n Saturday, Dec. 3, 8 p.m. (EWTN) “Saint Peter.”

The story of the life of St. Peter, the man chosen by Jesus Christ to lead His Church as the first pope.

Featuring acclaimed actor Omar Sharif. Part 2. n Wednesday, Dec. 7, 4:30 p.m. (EWTN) “Nicholas: The Boy Who Became Santa.” Nicholas was still a young boy when he discovered the love of Jesus and the gift of giving that changed the world. Based on historical facts and traditions, this film is worth watching with family and friends. n Friday, Dec. 9, 6:30 p.m. (EWTN) “The Cloak of Juan Diego: The Story of Our Lady of Guadalupe.” A look at the history of the appearance of the Blessed Virgin Mother to Juan Diego and her devotion at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City.

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Our nation 18

catholicnewsherald.com | November 25, 2016 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

U.S. bishops’ fall general assembly round-up Bishops’ strategic plan urges ‘missionary discipleship’ across the Church

BALTIMORE — A new strategic plan adopted by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Nov. 15 during its fall general assembly reflects the efforts of Pope Francis to establish a more merciful and accompanying Church, said Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond of New Orleans, who led the planning process. The plan, which takes effect in January, will govern the work of the conference and its committees from 2017 through 2020. It incorporates the theme “Encountering the Mercy of Christ and Accompanying His People With Joy” in setting five priorities: evangelization, marriage and family life, human life and dignity, vocations, and religious freedom.

Report commissioned by bishops finds diversity abounds in U.S. Church

BALTIMORE — The Catholic Church is one of the most culturally diverse institutions in the U.S. and Catholic institutions and ministries need to adapt and prepare for growing diversity, said a report presented to the bishops Nov. 15.

The report, by the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate at Georgetown University, found that of the world’s estimated 1.3 billion Catholics, less than 6 percent live in the U.S. Of the U.S. Catholic population: 42,512,591, are white (non-Hispanic); 29,731,302 are Hispanic or Latino; 2,905,935 are Asian, Native Hawaiian; 2,091,925 are black, African-American, African, Afro-Caribbean; and 536,601 are American Indian or Alaskan Native.

As Trump talks deportation, bishop sends message on immigrants’ dignity BALTIMORE — In a letter read Nov. 14 during the fall general assembly, the chairman of the bishops’ Committee on Migration, Auxiliary Bishop Eusebio L. Elizondo of Seattle, called on President-elect Donald Trump “to continue to protect the inherent dignity of refugees and migrants.” In a television interview Nov. 13, Trump said he is looking at a plan to deport 2 million to 3 million people whom he described as “criminal and have criminal records” and entered the country without permission. A day later, the U.S. bishops, meeting in Baltimore, affirmed Bishop Elizondo’s letter encouraging efforts “to work together to promote the common good, especially those to protect the most vulnerable among us.”

In the letter, Bishop Elizondo said he was praying for Trump, “all elected officials and those who will work in the new administration.

I offer a special word to migrant and refugee families living in the United States: Be assured of our solidarity and continued accompaniment as you work for a better life.”

Archbishop calls for bishops’ racism statement given election tension

BALTIMORE — Earlier this year, as communities faced tensions, protests and violence, following a spate of shootings and killings of black men by police, Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Louisville, Ky., as president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, asked dioceses across the country to observe a day of prayer for peace. He also wanted the bishops to look for ways they could help the suffering communities, as well as police affected by the incidents. To that end, he appointed a special task force to explore ways of promoting peace and healing around the country and named Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory of Atlanta to head it. On Nov. 14, Archbishop Gregory urged the bishops to issue, sooner rather than later,

a document on racism. “A statement from the full body of bishops on racism is increasingly important at this time,” he said.

Bishops approve moving forward four possible saints’ causes

BALTIMORE — The bishops approved by voice vote the sainthood causes of four men and women as part of the episcopal consultation in the Catholic Church’s process for possible canonization: Julia Greeley, a former slave who lived in Colorado; Sister Blandina Segale, a Sister of Charity who served on the frontier; Father Patrick Ryan, who ministered to those suffering yellow fever; and Monsignor Bernard Quinn, who fought bigotry and established a black church and orphanage in Brooklyn, N.Y.

Bishops reject assessment hike; mail vote needed on change in formula

BALTIMORE — The U.S. bishops could not muster enough votes to approve a 3 percent increase in the diocesan assessment for 2018, and it will take a mail vote of absent bishops to determine whether a change in the assessment formula will pass. Needing 130 votes to approve the assessment increase, only 100 bishops, or 60 percent, approved the hike, while 65 voted it down.

The current assessment is based on a formula that takes into account the registered Catholic households in each diocese, offertory receipts and the amount of contributions to three national collections.

Bishops urged to walk with young people, bring them to deeper faith

BALTIMORE — Archbishop Christophe Pierre, the new apostolic nuncio to the U.S., urged the bishops Nov. 14 to pay close attention to young Catholics to both learn from them and help them to deepen their faith. “Many young people are not allergic to the truths of the faith or to the Church, but they simply don’t know anything or know very little about the faith,” he said, urging bishops to take steps needed to help them. He also noted that it is difficult for today’s young people to live out their faith in today’s modern world and they need to know they are welcome in the Church.

His remarks were geared to encouraging bishops to prepare for the October 2018 Synod of Bishops, which has the theme of accompanying young people on the path of faith and in discerning their vocation, announced by the Vatican this October.

U.S. bishops urged to bring wider attention to Christian persecution

BALTIMORE — Maronite Bishop Gregory J. Mansour called on the bishops to bring wider attention to the persecution of Christians in the Middle East to their parishes and political leaders. Addressing the bishops Nov. 15, the Maronite leader said he hoped that the new four-year strategic plan adopted by the conference earlier in the day would incorporate a robust advocacy for religious freedom in the rest of the world. “People do look to America and religious freedom is our greatest freedom and we ought to be able to export it. ...The more we export it throughout the world, the happier our world will be,” said Bishop Mansour, who heads the Eparchy of St. Maron in Brooklyn.

More online At www.catholicnewsherald.com: Read full coverage from the U.S. bishops’ fall assembly

Texas cardinal, L.A. archbishop elected USCCB president, vice president Mark Pattison and Dennis Sadowski Catholic News Service

Church Governance: Bishop Robert P. Deeley of Portland, Maine n Committee on Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs: Bishop Joseph C. Bambera of Scranton, Pa.

BALTIMORE — Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo of Galveston-Houston was elected president of the U.S. bishops’ conference Nov. 15 for a threeyear term to begin at the conclusion of the bishops’ annual fall general assembly in Baltimore.

Cardinal DiNardo collected a majority of votes on the first ballot of voting during the second day of the bishops’ public session. Based on the number of bishops voting, 104 votes were needed for election, and Cardinal DiNardo – the current vice president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops – received 113. He succeeds Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Louisville, CNS | Bob Roller Ky. Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo of Galveston-Houston addresses a news conference Elected vice Nov. 15 at the fall general assembly of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops president was in Baltimore. The cardinal was elected USCCB president that morning. Seated to Archbishop Jose H. his left is Archbishop Jose H. Gomez of Los Angeles, who was elected USCCB vice Gomez of Los Angeles. president.

Cardinal DiNardo said he is not planning n Committee on Evangelization and on “creating a new vision” but hopes Catechesis: Auxiliary Bishop Robert E. to continue the bishops’ priorities Barron of Los Angeles particularly focusing on dialogue and n Committee on International Justice listening to Catholics. and Peace: Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio The cardinal said he plans to focus of the U.S. Archdiocese for the Military on the needs and concerns of Catholics, Services particularly members of the immigrant n Committee on Protection of Children community who fear deportation with the and Young People: Bishop Timothy L. recent election of Donald Trump as U.S. Doherty of Lafayette, Ind. president. But he also said he remained Also several chairmen-elect chosen last hopeful about working with the new year will become committee chairmen at administration, saying its newness “offers the end of this year’s assembly and will options and possibilities.” serve three-year terms: “We make our voices heard,” he added, n Divine Worship: Archbishop Wilton D. “not by screaming in the streets but rather Gregory of Atlanta our voices are heard in the streets by our n Domestic Justice and Human care and concern and our clarity, what we Development: Bishop Frank J. Dewane of think is essential.”

Venice, Fla. Cardinal DiNardo, 67, said the key part of n Clergy, Consecrated Life and his role remains as a Church leader, which Vocations: Cardinal-elect Joseph W. Tobin is “where we show our shepherd’s heart.” of Indianapolis, who recently was named At their meeting, the bishops also archbishop of Newark, N.J. voted for chairmen-elect of five standing n Catholic Education: Bishop George V. committees and three representatives Murry of Youngstown, Ohio for the board of Catholic Relief Services, n Laity, Marriage, Family Life and the U.S. bishops’ overseas relief and Youth: Archbishop Charles J. Chaput of development agency.

Philadelphia The standing committees include A vote also was taken for three seats Canonical Affairs and Church Governance; on the board of Catholic Relief Services.

Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs; Elected were Archbishop Coakley, Evangelization and Catechesis; International who ends his term as president of the Justice and Peace; and Protection of board but remained eligible to continue Children and Young People. Negin a threeserving; Archbishop Jerome E. Listecki of year term as chairmen at the end of the Milwaukee; and Bishop Gregory L. Parkes bishops’ fall general assembly in 2017 will be: of Pensacola-Tallahassee, Fla. n Committee on Canonical Affairs and

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In Brief Cardinal Dolan urges effort to stop physician-assisted suicide WASHINGTON, D.C. — The chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities has called for increased efforts and “renewed vigor” to stop legalized physician-assisted suicide after the practice was approved by voters in Colorado and the District of Columbia City Council. Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan of New York urged Catholics to join medical professionals, disability rights groups and others “in fighting for the authentic care” of people facing terminal illness in a statement released Nov. 21. “The act of prescribing a fatal, poisonous dose, moreover, undermines the very heart of medicine,” Cardinal Dolan said.

“Doctors vow to do no harm, and yet assisted suicide is the ultimate abandonment of their patients.”

Voters reject nearly all ballot measures on Catholic issues WASHINGTON, D.C. — In this year’s election, voters went against nearly all of the ballot initiatives backed by Catholic leaders and advocates, except the referendums on minimum wage increases and gun control measures.

Voters passed an assisted suicide measure in Colorado and voted in favor of the death penalty in three states and in favor of legalized recreational marijuana in four states and against it in one. They also voted for minimum wage increases and gun control measures in four states. In Colorado, the only state with an initiative to legalize assisted suicide, voters passed the measure, making the state the sixth in the nation with a so-called “right-to-die law” joining Washington, Oregon, California, Vermont and Montana.

‘Faith is touchstone of everything’ CRS does, says agency’s outgoing CEO BALTIMORE — Carolyn Woo, outgoing CEO of Catholic Relief Services, told the U.S. bishops Nov. 14 at their fall general assembly in Baltimore that her five years of leading the relief agency has been “an incredible journey and an honor.” Woo, who is retiring at the end of the year, reminded the bishops that CRS, based in Baltimore, is very complex and very large.

“We serve 100 million people in your name in 100 countries, in some of the most difficult places.” Sean Callahan, CRS’ chief operating officer and a CRS employee for nearly 30 years, has been named to succeed Woo. Woo stressed that CRS is not just about distributing aid but aims to provide solutions that will transform lives and continue after the agency leaves. CRS also must provide evidence that the work of the U.S. church’s overseas relief and development agency is successful.

“We are required to be “highly innovative and highly accountable,” she said, adding: “I don’t want you to underestimate what it takes behind the scenes.

N.Y. court rules Sheen remains should be transferred to Peoria PEORIA, Ill. — The Supreme Court of the State of New York ruled Nov. 17 in favor of the family of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen regarding their request to allow the transfer of the sainthood candidate’s remains to Peoria, where he was raised and ordained a priest. On Nov. 1, Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Arlene Bluth heard arguments in favor of the transfer from lawyers for Archbishop Sheen’s niece, Joan Sheen Cunningham, as well as those from the Archdiocese of New York, which sought to keep the remains of the famed orator and media pioneer at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City, where he was entombed following his death on Dec. 9, 1979. The Diocese of Peoria has been a promoter of Archbishop Sheen’s canonization cause for more than 14 years. The ruling is seen as a key factor in allowing his cause to move forward. There was no immediate response from the New York archdiocese.

‘Face of Mercy’ documentary shows how mercy works in people’s lives NEW HAVEN, Conn. — “The Face of Mercy,” a new Knights of Columbus documentary that tells personal stories about the impact of God’s mercy on people’s lives, is airing on ABC affiliates nationwide as U.S. Catholics celebrated the conclusion of the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy. Narrated by actor Jim Caviezel, the 60-minute documentary is scheduled to the broadcast through Dec. 16. Broadcast dates and times and other information about the film are available at www.faceofmercyfilm.com. “The Face of Mercy” weaves theology and history together with modern testimonials to illustrate what constitutes the face of mercy in people’s lives and “how it is the antidote to evil even in the most difficult times,” said a news release from the Knights of Columbus.

— Catholic News Service

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catholicnewsherald.com | November 25, 2016 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Pope calls new cardinals to be agents of unity in divided world Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY — The Catholic Church’s 17 new cardinals must dedicate their lives to being ministers of forgiveness and reconciliation in a world – and sometimes a Church – often marked by hostility and division, Pope Francis said.

Even Catholics are not immune from “the virus of polarization and animosity,” the pope told the new cardinals, and “we need to take care lest such attitudes find a place in our hearts.”

Creating 17 new cardinals from 14 nations Nov. 19, the pope said the College of Cardinals – and the Catholic Church itself – must be a sign for the world that differences of nationality, skin color, language and social class do not make people enemies, but brothers and sisters with different gifts to offer.

Three of the new cardinals created during the prayer service in St. Peter’s Basilica were from the United States: Cardinals Blase J. Cupich of Chicago; Kevin J. Farrell, prefect of the new Vatican office for laity, family and life; and Joseph W. Tobin, whom the pope asked to move from being archbishop of Indianapolis to archbishop of Newark, N.J. Only 16 of the new cardinals were present for the ceremony. The Vatican said 87-year-old Cardinal Sebastian Koto Khoarai, the retired bishop of Mohale’s Hoek, Lesotho, was created a cardinal although he was unable to travel to Rome.

After reciting the Creed and taking an oath of fidelity to Pope Francis and his successors, each cardinal went up to Pope Francis and knelt before him. The pope gave them each a cardinal’s ring, a threecornered red hat and a scroll attesting to their appointment as cardinals and

containing their “titular church” in Rome.

The assignment of a church is a sign they now are members of the clergy of the pope’s diocese.

After the consistory, Pope Francis and

them for stopping by and assured them, “My prayers will accompany you always.”

Cardinal Mario Zenari, the pope’s ambassador to Syria, spoke on behalf of the new cardinals, promising Pope Francis

CNS | Paul Haring

Pope Francis greets new Cardinal Kevin J. Farrell, prefect of the new Vatican office for laity, family and life, during a consistory in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican Nov. 19. the new cardinals hopped in vans for a short ride to visit retired Pope Benedict XVI in the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery, his residence in the Vatican gardens. The retired pope greeted each cardinal, thanked

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that they and the entire Church would continue to be envoys of God’s mercy, bending down to help those “left half dead on the side of the road, wounded in body and spirit.”

The Gospel reading at the consistory was St. Luke’s version of Jesus’ discourse to His disciples: “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”

“They are four things we can easily do for our friends and for those more or less close to us, people we like, people whose tastes and habits are similar to our own,” Pope Francis said. But Jesus, not mincing His words, calls His followers to more.

“With people we consider our opponents or enemies,” the pope said, “our first instinctive reaction ... is to dismiss, discredit or curse them. Often we try to ‘demonize’ them, so as to have a ‘sacred’ justification for dismissing them.”

In God, he said, there are no enemies.

There are only brothers and sisters to love.

All people are embraced by God’s love, he said. “We are the ones who raise walls, build barriers and label people.”

Just as God loves and forgives the pope and the cardinals for their sinfulness, he said, so they must love and forgive others, undergoing “the conversion of our pitiful hearts that tend to judge, divide, oppose and condemn.”

Looking around the modern world, Pope Francis said, “we live at a time in which polarization and exclusion are burgeoning.”

“We see, for example, how quickly those among us with the status of a stranger, an immigrant or a refugee” are seen as threats, he said. They are presumed to be an enemy because they come from a different country, “because of the color of their skin, their language or their social class. An enemy because they think differently or even have a different faith.”

The “growing animosity between peoples” is found even “among us, within our communities, our priests, our meetings,” the pope said.

“We need to take care lest such attitudes find a place in our hearts, because this would be contrary to the richness and universality of the Church, which is tangibly evident in the College of Cardinals,” he said. The cardinals come from different countries, “we think differently and we celebrate our faith in a variety of rites. None of this makes us enemies; instead, it is one of our greatest riches.”

As the Year of Mercy was ending, Pope Francis called on the new cardinals – and everyone present in the basilica – to continue to proclaim “the Gospel of mercy,” going out to where people live, giving them hope and helping them become signs of reconciliation.

At the end of the consistory, the College of Cardinals had 228 members, 121 of whom are under the age of 80 and eligible to vote in a conclave to elect a pope.

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no sin that God’s mercy cannot reach and wipe away when it finds a repentant heart seeking to be reconciled with the Father.”

Pope: Year of Mercy affirmed dignity, sacredness of life

In Brief Pope extends special Year of Mercy provisions on confession VATICAN CITY — Acknowledging and sharing God’s mercy is a permanent part of the Christian life, so initiatives undertaken during the special Year of Mercy must continue, Pope Francis said. “Mercy cannot become a mere parenthesis in the life of the church,” the pope wrote in an apostolic letter, “Misericordia et Misera,” (“Mercy and Misery”), which he signed Nov. 20 at the end of the Year of Mercy. The Vatican released the text the next day.

The Church’s focus on God’s mercy must continue with individual acts of kindness, assistance to the poor and, particularly, with encouraging Catholics to participate in the sacrament of reconciliation and making it easier for them to do so, the pope wrote.

In his letter, Pope Francis said he formally was giving all priests permanent permission to grant absolution to those who confess to having procured an abortion. While many bishops around the world, and almost all bishops in the U.S., routinely grant that faculty to all their priests, Pope Francis had made it universal during the Holy Year. According to Church law, procuring an abortion brings automatic excommunication to those who know of the penalty, but procure the abortion anyway.

“I wish to restate as firmly as I can that abortion is a grave sin, since it puts an end to an innocent life,” the pope wrote. “In the same way, however, I can and must state that there is

VATICAN CITY — Visiting young women rescued from forced prostitution and meeting with a mother inconsolable over the loss of one of her newborn triplets are images from the Year of Mercy that Pope Francis said remain impressed on his heart. Reviewing the Holy Year in a 40-minute interview aired Nov. 20 on TV2000, a television station owned by the Italian bishops’ conference, Pope Francis also spoke about handling stress, his upcoming 80th birthday and a sense of humor, among other topics. Asked about the Mercy Friday visits he made once a month during the Holy Year, the pope said the visit with women rescued from human trafficking and his visit to the neonatal ward of a Rome hospital were the visits that stand out. Visiting Rome’s San Giovanni Hospital in September, he said, “there was a woman who cried and cried and cried standing by her two infants – tiny, but beautiful. The third had died.”

“She cried for that dead child while she caressed the other two,” the pope said. “It’s the gift of life.”

“And I thought of the practice of getting rid of babies before they are born – this horrible crime. They get rid of them because ‘it’s better that way,’ because it is easier, ‘it is a big responsibility.’ That is a serious sin,” the pope said. “This woman had three children and wept for the one who died; she was unable to console herself with the two remaining.”

Pope: Church must know situation of couples it tries to help VATICAN CITY — Discerning the best way to help a couple whose marriage has failed is

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not easy, Pope Francis told a group of bishops, but he said he was certain that with study and prayer they would find ways to help the people entrusted to their care. As some very public debates swirled in mid-November about the pastoral possibilities Pope Francis opened to bishops and priests for helping divorced and civilly remarried Catholics, he visited the offices of the Roman Rota, a marriage tribunal, but did not issue clear, blanket instructions. The pope made his visit Nov. 18 to speak with bishops who were at the Roman Rota for a course on implementing the rules Pope Francis published in September 2015 to reform the process for verifying the validity of a marriage.

Pope Francis told the bishops “any impediment of a mundane character” – specifically cost or staffing – that makes it difficult for couples to get a timely judgment on the validity of their marriage must be eliminated. Church law, he said, is at the service of the salvation of souls and fulfills that service by promoting a “healthy relationship between justice and charity.” After all, he said, the entire Code of Canon Law ends with the words, “The salvation of souls, which must always be the supreme law in the Church, is to be kept before one’s eyes.”

Pope, Iraqi-born catholicos pray for an end to violence VATICAN CITY — Nothing can justify or permit the continued onslaught in the Middle East, Pope Francis said. Terrible violence that “no reason can justify or allow” continues to “wash over hundreds of thousands of innocent children, women and men,” he told Catholicos Gewargis III, patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East.

The Iraqi-born, 74-year-old patriarch is leader of the church whose oldest communities are in Iraq, Iran, Syria and Lebanon. He told the pope that their meeting and prayer together Nov. 17 was a source of “spiritual joy and

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encouragement” to all Christians who are enduring so much pain and suffering in Iraq and Syria.

Lamenting the “difficult and terrible circumstances” that have forced so many people to flee or even lose their lives, Catholicos Gewargis recalled St. John Paul II’s tireless efforts to prevent a U.S. military intervention in Iraq, first in 1991 and again in 2003. He told Pope Francis how much St. John Paul had done but still failed to stop the 1991 invasion, adding that the Polish pope had told him he had done everything in his power “to avoid this disaster,” but that “these politicians don’t understand us and we don’t understand them.”

Pope reportedly says he won’t judge Trump but will watch impact on poor ROME — The day before Donald Trump was elected president of the United States, Pope Francis said he would make no judgments about the candidate and was interested only in the impact his policies would have on the poor.

Eugenio Scalfari, co-founder and former editor of La Repubblica, an Italian daily, said he met with Pope Francis Nov. 7 and asked him what he thought of Trump. “I don’t give judgments about persons and politicians; I only want to understand what sufferings their way of proceeding will cause the poor and excluded,” the pope said, according to Scalfari.

The journalist has explained on more than one occasion that he does not take notes or record his conversations with the pope; he re-creates them afterward from memory, including the material he puts in quotation marks. Scalfari, in an article published Nov. 11, said Pope Francis said his greatest concern today is for refugees and immigrants.

— Catholic News Service

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catholicnewsherald.com | November 25, 2016 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

‘It can be hard to anticipate the Christmas feast when the world is already feasting.’

April Parker

Time, talent and the Eucharist T

he fall season sends an open invitation to take part in stewardship. With the winter season approaching, the hungry and homeless need our time and attention more than ever. Who will provide for the less fortunate if someone doesn’t step up to volunteer? The job is too big for one person or even a few. It takes all of us stepping forward to meet the needs of our communities during the next few months.

Yet, stewardship is not just about stepping up during the holidays. It is about continuing the Christian influence in our communities, our workplaces and our schools every day. Stewardship is about unselfishly giving of our “time, talent and treasure” moment by moment as God calls us to meet the needs around us. This responsibility is not just about donating canned foods periodically or delivering turkeys once a year. It is about searching inside for our talents, taking the time to listen and using our resources – however meager they may be – to support others.

When thinking about each of our gifts, I am reminded of the parable of the talents. In Matthew 25:14-19, Jesus tells a story of a master who is going away on a journey.

Before he leaves, he entrusts three of his servants with his property. He gives each a different portion according to their abilities. To one he entrusts five talents, to another two talents, and to a third, only one talent. At once, the one who had received five talents went out and traded with the five talents, doubling his profit by earning five more talents for his master. Similarly, the one entrusted with two talents did the same and made two more talents. But the third tenant, who was entrusted with just one talent, went and dug a hole in the ground to bury his master’s money.

As you might have guessed, this parable goes far beyond coins. These “talents” are just that – gifts of talent. The overall theme of this parable seems to be investing our resources wisely. However, as we open our eyes and hearts to the scripture, could there be a deeper message which points to our chief resources being our talents? Matthew recounts how we should use and grow our talents that are given to us as gifts, and not necessarily in terms of money.

In the scripture, the first two tenants, upon their master’s return, came back and settled their accounts with him. The one who had received five talents came forward bringing five more talents. Similarly, the tenant with entrusted with two talents was able to produce two more talents. The master was pleased with them both and recounted, “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little, so now I will set you over much.” (Mt 25:19-21) When I envision this scripture, I imagine the tenants being handed small round coins, not unlike the Host we receive each time we come to Mass. Suppose this Host was the talent we were entrusted by the Master each week?

But it is not the Master who goes away, it is us; we take our talents within us and go into the world. Do we cultivate the talent within us or do we walk out of the doors of the church, back to our everyday lives, and forget all about it?

Do we bury it deep within us, or do we share the gift we have received?

The scripture goes on to say: “He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed, so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here, you have what is yours.’ But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed? Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest.” (Mt 25:24-27) When we receive the Eucharist, do we let it fully fill

Matthew Newsome

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us? Do we pray for its work within us to strengthen and cleanse us for God’s work?

Imagine that this one Host could magnify all our other talents. Imagine that this one talent could give us the strength, the knowledge and the courage to go into the world to find ways to spread our faith. Imagine that it could give us the ability to spread the love of Christ by just using something simple, already inside of us, that we enjoy and excel at. Our talent may need a little dusting off, or maybe it is a hobby that could just be repurposed.

Could you teach a painting class, using a faith-based theme, for children in your parish? Could you use your cooking skills to serve at a soup kitchen on a weekly basis?

Could you sew a blanket for the homeless or knit a cap for a newborn of an unwed mother? Could you volunteer your time as a counselor at a pregnancy care center? Could you teach golf lessons to those who are mentally handicapped?

Could you volunteer your services as a contractor or builder to Habitat for Humanity? Could you offer your time during retirement to read to under-privileged children or rock orphan babies? There is something within us all.

We do not have to feel limited by time or treasure. Let the talent we receive in the Eucharist strengthen the talent within us, the talent given by God. How lucky we are to receive these gifts and to receive the strength and words each week that allow them to develop.

“So take the talent from him and give it to him who has the ten talents. For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.” (Mt 25:28-29) The next time at Mass when you walk up to receive the Eucharist, imagine the Master is handing you a talent to protect and nourish so that it blooms tenfold for Him. Take your treasure out into the world, and ask God to give you the wisdom to let it work for His kingdom.

April Parker is a parishioner of St. Pius X Church in Greensboro, where she teaches third grade at St. Pius X School. She is also a freelance writer and author.

Advent: Celebratory penance

t’s a chilly morning as I write this; a good excuse to wrap myself in sweaters and tweeds. Looking out my window I see more leaves on the ground than in the trees. The grass has stopped growing, and in some places has turned brown. The signs are clear: the year is coming to an end. That means we are entering “the Holiday Season.”

Thanksgiving may be the next holiday on the calendar, but the stores are already bringing in shipments of Christmas trees, lights, candy and decorations. One of my neighbors has already strung lights on her front porch. In the Church, however, we must pass through this curious season called Advent before embracing the full joy of Christmas.

How do we approach Advent?

Like during Lent, the sanctuary and ministers are draped in purple, the liturgical color of penance.

Unlike Lent, there are no mandatory days of fasting or abstinence. Advent is not mentioned as a penitential season in Canon Law (canon 1250). In “Ceremonies of the Liturgical Year,” Monsignor Peter Elliott says Advent “is not penitential. Advent is a season of preparation and reflection, hope and anticipation.”

What we anticipate is the coming of Christ. And for those of us sinners – which is to say, all of us – preparing to receive Christ involves repenting of our sins.

So even though it is not officially a season of penance, the Advent readings include the words of John the Baptist instructing us to “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” (Mt 3:1-12, 2nd Sunday of Advent, cycle A).

Advent is a season of repentance, of turning once more to Christ with renewed vigor. It is a time to prepare a place for the Lord in our hearts, as we prepare our homes for the celebration of Christmas.

What are some things we can do? We can choose one day a week for voluntary fasting. We can engage in sacred reading each day. (I strongly recommend Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s “Jesus of Nazareth: The Infancy Narratives” for the Advent season.) We can make a good examination of conscience and seek sacramental reconciliation. We can remember those who are facing the coming winter without proper clothing, food or shelter by making donations or volunteering our time, seeing Christ in “the least of these” (Mt 25:40).

Advent is a gift.

The Church gives us the time and space needed to prepare our souls for the coming celebration of the Incarnation, and the coming of Christ at the end of time.

The world makes this a challenge, for the whole month of December is a time of secular celebration. It can be hard to fast when one is invited to countless parties.

It can be hard to find time for additional prayer when there is so much pressure to “get ready for the holidays.”

ADVENT, SEE page 24

November 25, 2016 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

23

Parish spotlight

Grand old flags retired Deacon James H. Toner

KERNERSVILLE — Parishioners, local veterans, Knights of Columbus and Boy Scouts from Holy Cross Church took part in a flag retirement ceremony Nov. 12, the day after Veterans Day.

What we know that ain’t so:

“What you think is the right road may lead to death” (Prv 14:12)

Memories What we think is the right road

I

am Catholic about an hour every week.

The other 167 hours, I raise a family, have a job, and try to squeeze in a little relaxation. I admit I am not a saint. But I’m a decent husband, father, employee and golfer. Isn’t that enough?

‘Be concerned above everything else with the Kingdom of God and with what He requires of you.’

But it’s the wrong road

In a word: no.

It’s not enough.

Here’s why: everything we do is, or should be, formed and informed by Christ and His Church. If we are Catholic only at the circumference but not at the core, we aren’t practicing the faith. In all we think, say and do, we ought to be quintessentially Mt 6:33 Catholic.

The very word Catholic means not only universal, but also in the respect to the whole. We can’t compart“The Edge of mentalize our Sadness,” by Edwin faith and corO’Connor (Loyola rectly say that Classics) we are observant Catholics. We should practice our faith even – maybe especially – when driving. The Catechism, for example, teaches us that we incur grave guilt when we speed (2290). We should thus be Catholic drivers!

Really? We should be Catholic all the time? Was that ever true of a certain time, place and people? Without getting into questions about medieval practices, permit a reminiscence about the 1950s. Space does not permit defense of, or necessary concessions about, some of these pieties and practices, and I understand (and freely grant) that there will be remarkably different reflections about them. My point is simply this: As Catholic kids growing up in the public schools of small-town Massachusetts, pretty much everyone I knew n Wore blessed medals n Said the “Our Father” before classes (Catholics stopped before “Thine is the Kingdom,” and Protestants continued) n Said the Pledge of Allegiance with

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mention of God (after 1954) n Refused to eat meat on Fridays (and the public school cafeterias served fish that day) n Made the sign of the cross when a hearse or ambulance went by n Made the sign of the cross before basketball free throws and before going swimming n Made the sign of the cross in the dirt with baseball bats before every at-bat n Went to catechism classes every week n Obtained parents’ signatures stating that he or she had learned the catechism lesson for that week n Observed Ember and Rogation days n Got splashed with holy water by our mothers at the start of thunderstorms n Memorized the Latin before becoming altar boys (the Confiteor and Suscipiat were tough), and learned the proper movements during Mass n Noticed that about 85-90 percent of the parish attended every Sunday Mass n Referred to the priest as, say, “Father O’Connor,” not “Father Tom.” n Always said, “Yes, Father,” or “No, Father” when responding to a priest – and never “yeah” or “nah.” n Dangled a rosary from the rearview mirror (absolutely a wrong practice, by the way) n Had a plastic statue of Jesus on the dashboard n Bowed our heads when passing Catholic churches (adoring Jesus in the tabernacle) n Fasted after midnight until receiving Holy Communion at Mass. (The fast was reduced to three hours in 1957, and then to one hour in 1964.) n Were urged by the Legion of Decency not to watch certain movies, and the parish as a whole pledged themselves to obey that request.

Some of these pieties were commendable, some perhaps less so. There can be honest differences of opinion about them. My point, though, is that the Catholic faith permeated our lives, and we knew we were Catholic.

The movies portrayed wholesome, courageous priests, and secular television carried Bishop Fulton Sheen, whom millions watched every week. Many entertainers and athletes were Catholic, and they were not shy about proclaiming their faith. There are stories (which I can’t verify) that singer Perry Como always held a small crucifix in his hand when he sang. And everybody knew who “Father Chuck O’Malley” was. Boston Red Sox centerfielder Jimmy Piersall made the sign of the cross in the dirt with his bat before stepping up to the plate, and so did most Catholic Little Leaguers. Every Catholic rooted for Notre Dame, directly or indirectly.

My mother was the proud daughter of an Irish Catholic millworker who had MEMORIES, SEE page 24

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catholicnewsherald.com | November 25, 2016 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

ANNIVERSARY FROM PAGE 5

part of High Point.”

A church has three purposes, he reminded everyone. First, it is set aside as a place for people to worship God in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. A church also serves as a place for their sanctification through reception of the sacraments, so that they may attain heaven. Third, a church is a center of evangelization, enabling people to act as witnesses of Christ in the wider community.

“I’m very proud of all that you do to make Christ the King Parish that center of Christ’s presence here in High Point,” Bishop Jugis said, and “to grow as a parish family – in love, in holiness and in mercy, with Jesus Christ as the center.”

In remarks at the end of Mass, Father Mariasoosai thanked Bishop Jugis for his presence and for his homily message to help “make us grow more spiritually.” He also thanked all those who

McCAFFREY FROM PAGE 7

America in Washington, D.C. He had a bachelor’s, a master’s and a doctorate in political science, and also had a doctorate in sacred theology doctorate.

He made his profession as a Benedictine monk (American-Cassinese Congregation) July 2, 1953, and was ordained a priest May 23, 1959.

He was elected the fourth abbot of Belmont Abbey on March 2, 1970.

organized and participated in the anniversary celebrations.

As Mass ended, people processed behind Bishop Jugis from the parish hall to the church, where he placed the Blessed Sacrament inside the church’s new tabernacle and blessed new Stations of the Cross.

He then sprinkled the people and the walls of the church with holy water, and – even as the last Holy Door was closing for the end of the Jubilee Year of Mercy – he prayed the blessing of the doors of a church: “We praise you, Lord God, Father all-holy. You sent Your Son into our world to gather by the shedding of His blood those whom the destructive power of sin had scattered. You sent Him to unite us all in the one sheepfold. He is the Good Shepherd. He is the door through which those who follow Him enter and are safe, go in and go out, and find pasture. Grant that those who enter this church with confident faith in Him may persevere in the teaching of the apostles, in the breaking of the bread, and in unceasing prayer, and so be built up into the heavenly Jerusalem. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.”

In retirement, Father McCaffrey did everything but slow down.

“I don’t think that a priest should ever retire,” said Father McCaffrey in an interview. “When a man gives himself to God, it should never end with a retirement.”

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Eternal Life, 902 W. Stephen Foster Ave. Bardstown, KY 40004.

Goldfinch Funeral Home-Beach Chapel in Murrells Inlet, S.C., was in charge of the arrangements.

— Catholic News Service. The staff of The Catholic Miscellany in Charleston, S.C., contributed.

Retirement Fund for Religious Please give to those who have given a lifetime. www.retiredreligious.org

ADVENT FROM PAGE 22

It can be hard to anticipate the Christmas feast when the world is already feasting.

Penance amidst celebration is a challenge. It sounds like a paradox. But isn’t that Catholicism? Isn’t our penance always mixed with celebration?

MEMORIES FROM PAGE 23

emigrated from Ireland, and she was almost in tears of joy in 1956, when the Democrats nearly nominated John F. Kennedy as their vice presidential nominee with Adlai Stevenson again at the top of the ticket.

Kennedy – an Irish Catholic from Massachusetts! Imagine! (Estes Kefauver of Tennessee finally got the VP nomination. Stevenson and Kefauver lost that year to Eisenhower and Nixon.)

There is, let me say it again, much that was troubling about the 1950s, even in the relatively halcyon Catholic world. It is easy to catalogue the sins and sorrows of the 1950s, but what awaited us 1950s kids were the 1960s and

Isn’t sorrow for our sins always mixed with joy over God’s forgiveness? Don’t we mourn with the hope of resurrection? Don’t we fast precisely so we can better enjoy the feast?

Celebrate this Advent. Celebrate and prepare. Repent and rejoice.

The Lord is near!

Matthew Newsome is the Catholic campus minister at Western Carolina University and the regional faith formation coordinator for the Smoky Mountain Vicariate.

the 1970s, and many of us were carried away by the winds and ways of those immensely troubled days. Many of us, though, even in the darkest days, were still able to call to mind the words we had memorized from the Baltimore Catechism. In answer to the question about why God made us, we recalled: “to know Him, to love Him, and to serve Him in this world, and to be happy with Him forever in heaven.”

Those 22 words, engraved in our minds and on our hearts during the 1950s, helped to provide us with light, reason and ultimate destiny. The common practices and pieties of the faith in the 1950s reminded us that we were and are Catholic – and that we should try, by the grace of God, to act that way in all we do, even when going up to bat or driving on I-85.

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

“ Be faithful to your prayer life and have a sense of humor,” says Sister Rita Polchin (foreground), 87, a member of the Sisters of Saints Cyril and Methodius.

This philosophy has served her well during nearly 70 years of religious life, especially as a teacher and principal in Catholic schools. Like Sister Rita, the senior sisters, brothers, and religious order priests shown here—and nearly 33,000 more across the nation— have offered their lives in service and prayer. Your gift to the Retirement Fund for Religious helps provide nursing care, medications, and other necessities.

Please be generous.

Roughly 95 percent of donations aid senior religious.

To donate: National Religious Retirement Office/CHA 3211 Fourth Street NE Washington DC 20017-1194 Make your check payable to Retirement Fund for Religious.

Or give at your local parish December 10–11.

Photos: (foreground) Sister Rita Polchin, SSCM, 87; (background) visit retiredreligious.org/2016photos for a list of names. ©2016 United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Photographer: Jim Judkis.