Feb. 3, 2017

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

Refugees to be resettled locally halted by Trump’s order

F e b r u ar y 3 , 2 0 1 7

‘We are joyful disciples’ North Carolina faithful join D.C. March for Life

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INDEX

Contact us.......................... 4 Español..................................11 Events calendar................. 4 Our Faith............................. 2 Our Parishes................. 3-10 Schools......................... 14-15 Scripture readings............ 2 TV & Movies.......................16 U.S. news...................... 18-19 Viewpoints.................. 22-23 World news.................. 20-21

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2017 DSA campaign focuses on active charity 12-13

Celebrating the lunar new year 6-7

Our faith

catholicnewsherald.com | February 3, 2017 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

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St. Agatha Pope Francis

Like expectant moms, live in joyful expectation of embracing God

C

hristian hope isn’t about believing in something that may or may not come true, like hoping tomorrow’s weather will be pleasant, Pope Francis said. “Christian hope is the expectation of something that already has been fulfilled and that certainly will be attained for each one of us,” that is, knowing Christ died and is truly risen so that all of humanity may gain salvation and live together with God, the pope said Feb. 1 during his weekly general audience.

Continuing a series of talks on Christian hope, the pope looked at St. Paul’s First Letter to the Thessalonians (5:4-11) and what it teaches about the Christian belief in life after death.

The early Christian community at Thessaloniki was firm in its belief in Christ’s resurrection, but trusting in one’s own resurrection and the resurrection of loved ones was a bit harder to grasp, the pope said.

Such doubts and uncertainty still exist today as “we all are a little afraid of dying,” he told those gathered in the Paul VI audience hall.

St. Paul, he said, writes words of encouragement, telling Christians to arm themselves against the onslaught of doubt and difficulties by “putting on the breastplate of faith and love and the helmet that is hope for salvation.”

This kind of hope, the pope said, has nothing to do with wishing for “something nice,” something “that may or may not happen.”

“For example, people say, ‘I hope it will be nice weather tomorrow,’ but we know that it might be terrible weather instead.”

Christian hope isn’t like that, he said.

It is belief in “a sure reality” because it is rooted in the real event of Christ’s resurrection and His promise of eternal life with Him. It’s knowing and seeing that “there is a door over there,” he said, pointing to the entryway into the Paul VI audience hall.

“There is a door. I hope to get to the door. What do I have to do? Walk toward the door. I am sure I will make it to the door. That is what Christian hope is like. Being certain that I am walking” with that destination, he said.

Christian hope is living like an expectant mother, the pope said. “When a woman realizes she is pregnant, she learns to live each day in expectation of seeing her child’s gaze,” he said.

Everyone needs to learn to live each day with this same joyful anticipation -- “to live in expectation of gazing at the Lord, of finding the Lord,” he said.

Feast day: Feb. 5 Although we have evidence that Agatha was venerated at least as far back as the sixth century, the only facts we have about her are that she was born in Sicily in the third century and died there a martyr.

In the legend of her life, we are told that she belonged to a rich, important family. When she was young, she dedicated her life to God and resisted any men who wanted to marry her. One of these men, Quintian, was of a high enough rank that he felt he could force her to acquiesce.

Knowing she was a Christian in a time of persecution, he had her arrested and brought before the judge – himself.

He expected her to give in to when faced with torture and possible death, but she simply affirmed her belief in God by praying: “Jesus Christ, Lord of all, you see my heart, you know my desires. Possess all that I am. I am your sheep: make me worthy More online to overcome the devil.”

At www.catholicnewsherald.com: Read Legend tells about more saints we commemorate us that Quintian in February, including St. Paul Miki and imprisoned her in a Companions (Feb. 6), St. Josephine brothel to get her to Bakhita (Feb. 8) and St. Polycarp (Feb. 23). change her mind.

Quintian brought her back before him after she had suffered a month of assault and humiliation in the brothel, but Agatha had never wavered, proclaiming that her freedom came from Jesus. Quintian then sent her to prison, and when she continued to profess her faith in Jesus, he had her tortured.

He refused her any medical care, but God gave her all the care she needed in the form of a vision of St. Peter. When she was tortured again, she died after saying a final prayer: “Lord, my Creator, you have always protected me from the cradle; you have taken me from the love of the world and given me patience to suffer. Receive my soul.”

Because one of the tortures she supposedly suffered was to have her breasts cut off, she is often depicted carrying her breasts on a plate. It is thought that blessing of the bread that takes place on her feast may have come from the mistaken notion that she was carrying loaves of bread.

Because she was asked for help during the eruption of Mount Etna, she is considered a protector against the outbreak of fire. More recently, she has been venerated as the patron saint of breast cancer patients. She is one of the female saints and martyrs mentioned in the Roman Canon.

— Catholic News Agency

Blessing of Saint Agatha bread CHARLOTTE — There will be a special blessing of Agatha bread after the 12:30 p.m. Latin Mass on Sunday, Feb. 5, at St. Ann Church. This celebration on the feast of St. Agatha is an ancient custom in which bread is blessed in her honor. (To have bread blessed, leave it partially opened on the blessing table in the narthex prior to the Mass.)

Feb. 5 also marks the close of the extended Epiphany/Christmas season, and the Charlotte Latin Mass Community will celebrate by offering some homemade Agatha breads prepared by some of the

families along with hot apple cider and hot cocoa. The St. Ann’s men’s schola and Cantate Domino Latin Choir will also lead the faithful in a wassailing song to close the Christmas season.

St. Ann Church is located at 3635 Park Road in Charlotte.

Learn more about the Charlotte Latin Mass Community at www. charlottelatinmass.org.

— Mike FitzGerald, correspondent

Your daily Scripture readings FEB. 5-11

Sunday: Isaiah 58:7-10, 1 Corinthians 2:1-5, Matthew 5:13-16; Monday (St. Paul Miki and Companions): Genesis 1:1-19, Mark 6:53-56; Tuesday: Genesis 1:20-2:4, Mark 7:1-13; Wednesday (St. Jerome Emiliani, St. Josephine Bakhita): Genesis 2:4-9, 15-17, Mark 7:14-23; Thursday: Genesis 2:18-25, Mark 7:2430; Friday (St. Scholastica): Genesis 3:1-8, Mark 7:31-37; Saturday (Our Lady of Lourdes): Genesis 3:9-24, Mark 8:1-10

FEB. 12-18

Sunday: Sirach 15:15-20, 1 Corinthians 2:610, Matthew 5:17-37; Monday: Genesis 4:1-15, 25, Mark 8:11-13; Tuesday (Sts. Cyril and Methodius): Genesis 6:5-8, 7:1-5, 10, Mark 8:1421; Wednesday: Genesis 8:6-13, 20-22, Mark 8:22-26; Thursday: Genesis 9:1-13, Mark 8:2733; Friday (The Seven Holy Founders of the Servite Order): Genesis 11:1-9, Mark 8:34, 9:1; Saturday: Hebrews 11:1-7, Mark 9:2-13

FEB. 19-25

Sunday: Leviticus 19:1-2, 17-18, 1 Corinthians 3:16-23, Matthew 5:38-48; Monday: Sirach 1:110, Mark 9:14-29; Tuesday (St. Peter Damian): Sirach 2:1-11, Mark9:30-37; Wednesday (The Chair of St. Peter): 1 Peter 5:1-4, Matthew 16:13-19; Thursday (St. Polycarp): Sirach 5:1-8, Mark 9:41-50; Friday: Sirach 6:5-17, Mark 10:112; Saturday: Sirach 17:1-15, Mark 10:13-16

Our parishes

February 3, 2017 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

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‘We are joyful disciples’ Bishop Jugis offers Mass, joins marchers for D.C. March for Life More inside

SueAnn Howell Senior reporter

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Shrine of the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is Our Mother’s house. Each year, people return to the stunning church in the nation’s capital, which serves as the home base for the annual March for Life, to pray for an end to abortion.

On Jan. 27, thousands of prolife pilgrims from the Charlotte and Raleigh dioceses joined Bishop Peter Jugis there for the North Carolina Mass to pray for an end to abortion prior to participating in the 44th annual March for Life.

Looking out over the pews filled with people young and old, Bishop Jugis reminded them in his homily that they had come as “joyful disciples” of the Lord to ask Him to bless efforts to protect and save the lives of the unborn.

“We are joyful disciples. Make sure that you always remain as joyful disciples of the Lord and joyful witnesses to the Gospel of life,” he said. “It is the love of Christ, ultimately, which conquers the evil of abortion. We have Jesus’ promise that He is with us.”

We can be confident, he said, in what Jesus told His disciples before his Ascension: “Know that I am with you always, even until the end of the world.”

This is the promise Jesus also makes to us, Bishop Jugis continued.

“What is more, as He ascended into heaven, Jesus raised His hands and blessed the disciples as He departed from them. That is the image Jesus LIFE, SEE page 17

Page 18 ‘Life is winning again in America,’ vice president tells March for Life

Also online At www. catholicnewsherald. com: See more photos from the North Carolina Mass and the March for Life

sueann howell | catholic news herald

Parishioners from St. Mark Church in Huntersville greet Bishop Peter Jugis (center) and their pastor Father John Putnam (left) along Constitution Avenue at the March for Life Jan. 27 in Washington, D.C.

Giuliana Polinari Riley | Catholic News Herald

Praying for the sanctity of life Mike FitzGerald, correspondent; photos provided by Andrea Hines

Candlelight Walk for Life held in Charlotte Jan. 22 CHARLOTTE — Close to 50 faithful Catholics with umbrellas endured pouring rain to attend the Candlelight Walk for Life in uptown Charlotte Sunday evening, Jan. 22. The event was held to mark the actual anniversary date of Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion in the U.S. While the rain extinguished most of the candles, the fire within the souls of pro-life supporters continued unabated as the event began in front of St. Peter Church on Tryon Street and concluded with them walking to the federal courthouse on nearby West Trade Street to pray. The event was organized by the Catholic Pro-Life Action Network of Charlotte (CPLAN) to host a local memorial event on the actual anniversary date of Roe v. Wade since the Washington, D.C., March for Life, which occurs on the anniversary date, was rescheduled to Jan. 27 because of the presidential inauguration.

For more information about C-PLAN, go to www.prolifecharlotte.org or email info@prolifecharlotte.org.

FOREST CITY — The annual “Sanctity of Life Service,” sponsored by Hands of Hope for Life, was held Jan. 17 at Immaculate Conception Church. Father Herbert Burke, pastor, opened the interdenominational program with a welcome and prayer focused on honoring God, the giver of life; and Deacon Andy Cilone offered the closing prayer. Approximately 250 people attended the service that included prayers and testimonials by nine ministers from local churches. Participating ministers included Rev. Scott Huffman of Campfield Baptist Church; Rev. Brandon Wood of Rutherfordton Second Baptist Church; Rev. Eric Reedy of Mountain View Baptist Church; Rev. Jerry Campbell, retired pastor; Rev. Chris Hensley of Drury Dobbins Baptist Church (pictured with his wife Amanda and son Daniel); Rev. and Mrs. Kevin Rohm of Crestview Baptist Church; Rev. Robert Hensley of Goodes Grove Baptist Church; Rev. Jonathan Cobb of Adaville Baptist Church; and Rev. Robert Carnell of Floyds Creek Baptist Church. Immaculate Conception parishioner Traci Burnett is client services director for the “Hands of Hope for Life” program. Prayers were offered for the sanctity of life, including adoptive parents and their children, parents of miscarried or stillborn children, and those who work in and support pregnancy centers, as well as for the conversion of abortion providers and for post-abortion healing. Prayers were also offered for our nation and its leaders, and for the protection of families. A candlelight service concluded the program.

UPcoming events 4

catholicnewsherald.com | February 3, 2017 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Bishop Peter J. Jugis will participate in the following upcoming events: FEB. 4 – 11 a.m.

Mass for World Day for Consecrated Life St. Patrick Cathedral, Charlotte

Feb. 24 – 10 a.m.

Feb. 19 – 11:30 a.m.

Feb. 28 – 6 p.m.

Holy Mass and Blessing of Simmons Parish Center St. Pius X Church, Greensboro

Diocesan Finance Council Meeting Pastoral Center, Charlotte

Seminarian Education Campaign Dinner Graylyn International Conference Center, Winston-Salem

March 2 – 10 a.m.

Foundation Board Meeting Catholic Conference Center, Hickory March 4 Catholic Men’s Conference St. Mark Church, Huntersville

Diocesan calendar of events February 3, 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

Volume 26 • Number 9

Gaudium Musicae Concert Series: 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 26, at St. Ann Church, 3635 Park Road, Charlotte.

Concert will feature Gate City Camerata, UNCGreensboro’s elite faculty student ensemble, presenting traditional and contemporary chamber works. For details, go to www.stanncharlotte.org.

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

Catholic Charities partner in Hope Dinner: March 9 at the Benton Convention Center, WinstonSalem. Sister Donna Markham OP, PhD, president and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, will be the guest speaker.

For details, call 336-714-3227 or go to www.ccdoc.org/ partnersinhope.

STAFF

NATURAL Family Planning

EDITOR: Patricia L. Guilfoyle 704-370-3334, plguilfoyle@charlottediocese.org

NFP Introduction and Full Course: 1-5 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 11, at St. Matthew Church, 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy., Charlotte. Topics include: 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 704-3703230.

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.

PRAYER SERVICES & Groups Pro-life rosary: 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at 801 N. Elm St. and Sunset Drive. Outdoors, rain or shine. Please come and help us pray for the end of abortion, and feel free to invite anyone who would be morally supportive of this important cause. For details, call Jim Hoyng at 336882-9593 or Paul Klosterman at 336-848-6835.

Anointing Mass: 10 a.m. Feb. 18, at St. Luke Church, 13700 Lawyers Road, Charlotte. Anointing is typically presented to those who need healing from physical or mental illness. A social afterwards in the Family Life Center. Sponsored by the HOPE Committee. For details, contact Mary Adams at 704-545-1224.

St. Peregrine healing Prayer: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 23, at St. Matthew Church, 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy., Charlotte. This powerful healing prayer service is offered on the fourth Thursday of the month for all those suffering with cancer or other diseases. For details, call the parish office at 704-543-7677.

CHARLOTTE Maronite Mission: Masses are offered every Sunday at 12:30 p.m. at St. Matthew Church, 4116 Waxhaw-Marvin Road, Waxhaw. 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 parish 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 parish office at 336-883-0244.

Men’s Prayer Group: 7:30 a.m.-8 a.m. Thursdays at St. Patrick Cathedral, 1621 Dilworth Road East, Charlotte.

Join Father Christopher Roux and other area Catholic men for Sunday Gospel meditations, the rosary and fellowship. For details, call the parish office at 704-3342283.

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: ARDEN: 9 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 11, St. Barnabas Church, 109 Crescent Hill Dr. ASHEVILLE: 9 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, St. Lawrence Basilica, 97 Haywood St. CHARLOTTE: 8 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, St. Thomas Aquinas Church, 1400 Suther Road; 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 8 at St. Matthew Church, 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy.

KERNERSVILLE: 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7, Holy Cross Church, 616 South Cherry St. RETREATS & Lectures Marriage Getaway weekend retreat: 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 5, at Kanuga Conference Center, 130 Kanuga Chapel Dr., Hendersonville. This 25-hour retreat will help you reflect, refocus and rejuvenate your marriage. Retreat led by Father Martin Connor, LC. For details, go to www. rcgreatercharlotte.com.

Coffee Talk ‘Forgiven’: 10:20 a.m. Sundays, Feb. 5, 12 and 19 in the Simmons Parish Center at St. Pius X Church, 2210 North Elm St., Greensboro. This will be a three-part series on topics: Where are you? An Encounter with Mercy, and Embraced in Mercy-The Rite Explained. For details, call the parish office at 336-272-4681.

CHARLOTTE CATHOLIC WOMEN’S GROUP MORNING Reflection: 9 a.m. Monday, Feb. 13, at St. Vincent de Paul Church, 6828 Old Reid Road, Charlotte. All women in the Diocese of Charlotte are invited to this free event. Mass will start at 9 a.m. with a reflection to follow at 10:30 a.m. Guest speaker is Jesuit Father John Michalowski. For RSVP details, go to www. charlottecatholicwomensgroup.org.

Connecting Soul to Role: 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 15, and 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, at St. Gabriel Church, 3016 Providence Road, Charlotte. Everyone is invited all to an enlightening program with Ginny Schaeffer, director of the Angela Merici Center for Spirituality, a ministry of the Ursiline Sisters in Louisville, Ky. She will guide us in seeing how our soul and roles in life can work together. She is a spiritual and retreat director with

degrees in nursing, counseling and spirituality with a deep commitment to helping people becoming who God has called them to be. For details, email DmcClatchy@ stgabrielchurch.org.

‘The Implication of being a black catholic in America’: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, at St. Mary’s Church, 812 Duke St., Greensboro. Discussion will be led

by Father Marcel Amadi of Greensboro and WinstonSalem Campus Ministries. For details, call the parish office at 336-272-8650.

RESPECTING LIFE FORUM ‘OUR MOST VULNERABLE CHILDREN’: 3-5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 26, in the Parish Hall at St. Eugene Church, 72 Culvern St., Asheville. Speakers from the Buncombe County Division of Social Services, the 28th Judicial District Guardian ad Litem, and the Children’s Hope Alliance will present information on foster care and adoption and address the many opportunities all community members have to support children in foster care. No pre-registration is required.

For details, call Tom Kotz at 828-231-7396.

7th annual Catholic Men’s Conference: Saturday, March 4, at St. Mark Church, 14740 Stumptown Road, Huntersville. Guest speakers include: Robert Rogers, Father Bill Casey, frequent EWTN guest, and Steve Beuerlein, former Carolina Panthers quarterback. For details, go to www.catholicmenofthecarolinas.org.

Parish Lenten Mission ‘Come, Live In The Light’: 6:30 p.m. March 12-16, at Holy Cross Church, 6161 South Cherry St., Kernersville. Redemptorist Father Peter Schavitz, a native of Chicago, will be the guest preacher.

Father Schavitz travels the country preaching missions and is nearing 300 preached missions. The topics for each night are: The Bible and Salvation-God’s plan of salvation and our response, The Crucifix-Who is Jesus to us?, Ashes-Sin, reconciliation and healing, Bread-Jesus as nourishment for the journey of faith, The Altar-Our mission to share in the work of Jesus and the Church. A social following presentation. Child care is provided for children younger than 6. Everyone welcome for all or any evening of the mission. For details, call 336-996-5109.

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 Road, 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.

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.

February 3, 2017 | catholicnewsherald.com

OUR PARISHESI

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Refugee families to be resettled in Charlotte halted by Trump’s order Kimberly Bender Online reporter

CHARLOTTE — Two refugee families expected to be welcomed by the Diocese of Charlotte this week will not be coming to the United States after an executive order issued

by President Donald Trump.

“The Protection of the Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into the United States,” which suspends the entire U.S. refugee resettlement program for 120 days, bans entry from all citizens of seven majority-Muslim countries – Syria, Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Yemen and Somalia – for 90 days.

The Jan. 27 action, intended to restrict the entry of terrorists coming to the United States, brought an outcry from Catholic leaders in the diocese and across the country and led to protests at airports and cities across the country, including Charlotte, Asheville, Greensboro and Raleigh.

The Diocese of Charlotte’s Refugee Resettlement Office was scheduled to receive two refugee families earlier this week, said diocesan officials.

A Somali family of four was expected to arrive Jan. 30, and a Syrian family of three, sponsored by a family member already in Charlotte, was expected Jan. 31. A third family, a Bhutanese family of four that traveled from Nepal, was welcomed into the diocese Jan. 30, diocesan officials said.

It’s not known yet exactly what will happen to the families, said Susan Jassan, interim director of Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte’s Refugee Resettlement Office.

Before they may travel to the United States, refugees must pass health and security screenings, she said. Those clearances are Page 18 Refugee ban good only for a limited amount brings outcry from of time. She’s unsure if they will Church leaders be resettled elsewhere or placed back in refugee camps.

With offices in Charlotte and Asheville, Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte works in partnership with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and the U.S. State Department to resettle refugees fleeing war, political upheaval, or religious, economic or ethnic persecution.

In 2016, the agency resettled 419 refugees and asylees, and last October alone, five Syrian families were welcomed to western North Carolina through these offices.

Catholic Charities’ Refugee Resettlement Office provides services to help these refugees adapt to their adopted homeland by becoming self-sufficient, productive members of their community. They provide housing assistance, job training and counseling help, school registration, health care referrals, community and cultural orientation, budgeting and financial education, interpretation services and referrals to ESL classes, and more.

“It is very disappointing to learn that two refugee families scheduled to arrive in Charlotte this week have been turned away,” Bishop Peter J. Jugis said in a statement Jan. 30. “We have decades of experience in settling thousands of families fleeing persecution in their native country. These people have made a rich contribution to the life and culture of western North Carolina.

“I join with my brother bishops in the effort to work vigorously to ensure that refugees are humanely welcomed without sacrificing our security or our core values as Americans. As Catholics we respond to the Biblical call to welcome the stranger – it is an act of love and hope.”

North Carolina was among the top 10 states that welcomed refugees last year – taking in 3,342 refugees in fiscal year 2016, according to U.S. State Department data analyzed by the Pew Research Center.

It’s not known how many refugees would have been resettled in the diocese over the next four months, Jassan said, because the system that communicated information to the diocese about upcoming arrivals has been suspended. However, during this same 120-day period last year, 158 refugees were settled in the Charlotte diocese. It’s safe to assume another 150 people would have come over next few months, she said.

In 2016, 28 percent of the refugees welcomed by the diocese came from countries banned under this order.

Most came from Somalia, 44, followed by Syria, 29, Iraq, 18, Sudan, 12, and seven from Iran.

More inside

According to information from the USCCB given to A woman holds a Catholic Charities, the sign as protesters maximum number of refugees march toward the expected to be taken in this U.S. Capitol in fiscal year has been reduced Washington Jan. from 110,000 to 50,000. As of Jan. 29. The group 23, 35,889 refugees out of that was protesting maximum number of 50,000 President Donald have already been welcomed, Trump’s executive leaving only approximately memorandum 14,000 refugee slots available suspending once the administration’s admission of any temporary order is lifted in refugees to the four months. Of that 14,000, U.S. for 120 days the USCCB expects to handle and banning entry about 3,000 cases, Catholic for 90 days of Charities officials said, and people from seven those will be distributed among predominantly the dioceses. Refugee families Muslim nations. with ties in the U.S. or who have U.S. sponsors – which represent CNS | Jaclyn about 75 percent of the cases Lippelmann, the Charlotte agency handles Catholic Standard – might still be able to resettle here, but Catholic Charities officials said they are unsure of

specifics right now.

“This is going to hurt our Other nations: Countries now covered by the temporary ban: communities,” Jassan said. “I 94 Burma think it’s going to have very 89 Bhutan 44 Somalia detrimental and reverberating 31 Ukraine 14 Republic of Congo effects throughout our 11 Russia communities. That is our biggest 29 Syria 9 El Salvador concern. It’s going to affect 8 Democratic Republic of Congo refugees who were going to come 18 Iraq 7 Afghanistan here, families who have now 7 Eritrea been split apart. It’s going to 6 Moldova

12 Sudan affect all of us in the community 3 Ethiopia who are impacted by refugees 3 Latvia who don’t even know they are.

1 Liberia 7 Iran 1 Mexico “Refugees are small business owners, hard workers throughout the diocese.

They attend our schools and bring multiculturalism to the Tim P. Faragher | Catholic News Herald classroom. So many of our governments we don’t support,” Sister Rose Marie said. clients, when they get here, are incredibly grateful and While this executive order and the scale of those affected they spread that message to their families back in the seems “massive,” Sister Rose Marie said she doesn’t know (refugee) camps. Even in light of the executive order, I if the peaceful protesting at airports in the wake of the hope they are able to still spread that message because the order will help. amount of kindness and warmth they experience here.”

“If we don’t push back, it’ll get worse. So we have to do Around the country, people gathered at airports over the something,” she said. weekend to express solidarity with immigrants and green During the next four months, Jassan said the diocese’s card holders denied admission.

Refugee Resettlement Office will be working to support and Among those protesting outside the entrance to comfort those refugees who are already in this country.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport Jan. 29 were “Pretty soon, we’ll find out from USCCB how many we’ll Deacon Chip Wilson of Belmont and his wife Terri. receive after this 120-day (temporary halt) through the Said Deacon Wilson, “I accepted my wife’s invitation to end of the federal fiscal year,” she said. “From that, we’ll show up at the airport after I realized I’ve run my mouth be able to gauge how much we need to amp up (resources) a lot from the pulpit about how we need to follow the to meet whatever that number is. So it’s a combination of Church’s teaching on immigration. This was a chance to planning and just taking things day by day, really looking actually do something.” out for those already in the country and trying to make The atmosphere among the protestors was positive, he them feel welcome.” said, despite a couple of negative comments from passing “That’s something everyone can play a part in,” Jassan drivers. added. “Advocate for refugee settlement. Those who are “One guy at the stop light yelled, ‘Keep America free, able can also give financial donations and volunteer, white and Christian!’ This white Christian American was focusing on welcoming the refugees who are here. Having ready to yell back an un-Christian phrase or two,” Deacon people who already live here to help these families sends a Wilson said. “Then a young Muslim stepped beside me and strong message.” shouted back, ‘We love you! We love you!’ Then the rest of More than 20 people work in the Refugee Resettlement the protesters joined him. The heckler was so startled, he Office in Charlotte and three in Asheville, Jassan said. A quit yelling and drove off.” lot of them are former refugees themselves or have worked Mercy Sister Rose Marie Tresp, director of justice with refugees for decades, and funding for their positions for the Sisters of Mercy South Central Community in is tied to the number of refugees that the diocese resettles.

Belmont, said she encourages everyone to contact their Because of this order, Jassan said, these people’s jobs congressional representatives as well as the president could be in jeopardy. about this issue.

“We have 11 staff members who receive funding for “The action doesn’t make a lot of sense, actually. It’s their positions from the USCCB,” she said. “We’re promoting paranoia. Refugees coming to this country doing everything we possibly can to try to keep people are vetted by the United Nations as well as the U.S. employed.” while in refugee camps. Often the process takes years.

— Catholic News Service contributed.

They’re against the things we’re against. They’re fleeing

Refugees welcomed in 2016

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catholicnewsherald.com | February 3, 2017 OUR PARISHES

Celebrating the lunar new year CHARLOTTE — Members of St. Joseph Vietnamese Church and the local Vietnamese community welcomed in the Lunar New Year during the parish’s annual Tet Festival Jan. 27-29. The three-day celebration for the “Year of the Rooster” included live music, traditional Vietnamese food and games, as well as performances by the Charlotte parish’s own Hidden Dragon Lion Dance team.

Photos by John Cosmas | Catholic News Herald

February 3, 2017 | catholicnewsherald.com

OUR PARISHESI

Celebrating the lunar new year

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catholicnewsherald.com | February 3, 2017 OUR PARISHES

Photo provided by Margaret Cavagnaro

Praying for Christian unity HENDERSONVILLE — Catholics and Lutherans in the Hendersonville area joined together in prayer Jan. 22 at Grace Lutheran Church to mark the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther’s efforts to reform the Church. Mirroring a similar ecumenical prayer service by Pope Francis held last fall in Sweden, the service stressed thanksgiving, repentance and our commitment to Jesus’ prayer to the Father “that they may be one as We are one.” Capuchin Franciscan Father Martin Schratz, pastor of Immaculate Conception Church, and Rev. Greg Williams of Grace Lutheran Church presided at the service.

Photos provided by Connie Ries

Celebrating the legacy of Dr. King

St. Matthew Catholic Church Presents:

The Jewishness of Jesus: Instructor: Susan Brady, MA Tuesdays, February 14, 21, 28 and March 7, 10am – 11:30am

NLC Banquet Room All are Welcome!

We, of the 21st century, might well think that we had a handle on understanding Jesus if we knew the make-up of His 46 chromosomes. But, we have something better, something truer, something that gives us a clear insight into the very soul of Jesus, the man. We know that Jesus was and is Jewish. Thus we know how Jesus thinks, how He interprets the world, the context in which His words have meaning and why the love He expresses for the Father is so available to us.

Susan Brady earned a master ’s degree in biblical studies from Providence

College. For over 40 years she has taught the Bible to audiences of various configurations, given days of prayer, parish retreats and talks on biblical subjects.

Her enthusiasm for the Word of God is infectious.

To register for this class online with credit card payment go to: www.stmatthewcatholic.org/SMU To view all course offerings in St. Matthew ‘yoU’niversity Winter/Spring Semester go to: www.stmatthewcatholic.org/SMU For more information please contact: Michael Burck, Director of Adult Faith Formation at: mburck@stmatthewcatholic.org or call 704-543-7677 x 1020

St. Matthew Catholic Church 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy., Charlotte, NC 28277

STATESVLLE — St. Philip the Apostle Church hosted the 22nd Annual Community Worship Celebration of Martin Luther King Jr., commemorating the life and legacy of Dr. King, Jan. 15. The parish was honored to have the community come together to pray for racial unity and peace. William M. Jones Jr., of the Boys and Girls Club of the Piedmont area, presided over the event and introduced the various speakers which included Father Thomas J. Kessler, pastor of St. Philip Church, who welcomed the group and gave the final benediction; Leon Ijames of the Statesville Branch of the NAACP; Patti West of Fifth Street Ministries; Dr. Dietrek Danner, pastor of Clark’s Chapel Baptist Church; Rev. Leslie Morrison of the Landmark Church of God; and Dorie Shore, chairperson of the MLK Community Celebration Committee. The MLK Celebration Chorus, under director Frederick Morison and Rochelle Gray, performed several musical selections for the attendees. They were joined by several choir members from St. Philip Church and other churches. After the event, refreshments were served in the social hall.

Mercy Sister Bernarda Hoff, who served nearly 50 years at Asheville hospital, dies aged 91 BELMONT — Surrounded by a small group of Sisters, Mercy Sister Mary Bernarda Hoff died peacefully on Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, at Marian Center in Belmont after a lengthy illness.

Sister Bernarda was a Sister of Mercy for 71 years and would have celebrated her 92nd birthday on Feb. 1.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Jan. 31, 2017, at Cardinal Gibbons Chapel in Sacred Heart Convent, Belmont.

Hoff Interment followed at Belmont Abbey Cemetery.

Peggy Eva Hoff was born in Greensboro on Feb. 1, 1925, the daughter of Leon Calvin Hoff Sr., and Lucille Estell Garrett, also of Greensboro.

In 1942 she graduated from Greensboro High School and entered the nursing school at St. Leo’s Hospital, obtaining her R.N. degree in 1945. She later also earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Sacred Heart College in Belmont, but her lifelong ministry was in the healthcare profession.

On Sept. 1, 1946, she entered the Sisters

of Mercy in Belmont, taking the name Sister Mary Bernarda a year later. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 16, 1952, and began her ministry at St. Joseph’s Hospital (later Mission/St. Joseph) in Asheville, where she served until 2001 – nearly 50 years in service to the people of the Asheville area.

Sister Bernarda retired from the hospital to Sacred Heart Convent in Belmont in 2001 but continued volunteer work, particularly at Catherine’s House, a shelter for women in transition, until she could no longer serve in active ministry.

Sister Bernarda leaves behind wonderful memories of her complete commitment to mercy, and of her exceptional talent as a dancer – everything from ballet to ballroom dancing and clogging.

Long ago she chose “Domine, non sum dignus” (“Lord, I am not worthy”) as the motto in her ring. On Jan. 27, God said, “You are indeed worthy. Come home.” And she did!

Memorials to the Sisters of Mercy may be made in Sister Mary Bernarda’s honor and sent to 101 Mercy Drive, Belmont, NC 28012.

McLean Funeral Directors of Gastonia was in charge of the arrangements.

— Catholic News Herald

February 3, 2017 | catholicnewsherald.com

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief Deacon appointments made for Maggie Valley, Denver CHARLOTTE — Bishop Peter J. Jugis announces the following appointments, effective Dec. 21, 2016: Deacon Miles C. Merwin has been appointed a permanent deacon for St. Margaret of Scotland Church in Maggie Valley, and Deacon Webster A. James has been appointed a permanent deacon for Holy Spirit Church in Denver.

Deacon Merwin and his Merwin wife Polly are seasonal residents of Maggie Valley.

They also have a home in Collierville, Tenn., where when in residence he serves the Church of the Incarnation Parish. He was ordained on March 4, 2000, for the Diocese of Memphis, Tenn., and he brings with him 16 years of experience as a permanent deacon in parish James assignments. In addition, he serves as an advocate for the Memphis Diocese Tribunal and is invested in the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, which supports the Christian presence in the Holy Land.

Deacon James and his wife Celia recently moved to Denver from Goldsboro, where he served at St. Mary Parish, to be closer to their children and grandchildren. He was ordained on Nov. 12, 2004, for the Diocese of Raleigh.

He brings with him 12 years of experience as a permanent deacon in parish assignments, where he has had extensive roles such as director of faith formation and Catholic chaplain at Wayne Memorial Hospital and Three HC, a hospice center in Eastern North Carolina.

— Deacon John Martino

Seminarians admitted to candidacy for holy orders COLUMBUS, Ohio — Mass on Jan. 21 marked a defining moment in the priestly formation of Alfonso Gamez and Britt Taylor, seminarians

from the Diocese of Charlotte who are studying at the Pontifical College Josephinum, as Bishop Frederick F. Campbell of Columbus admitted them to candidacy for holy orders. They are pictured with Bishop Campbell and Monsignor Christopher J. Schreck, rector/president of the Pontifical College Josephinum.

The Rite of Admission to Candidacy for Holy Orders is celebrated when a seminarian, usually in his second year of graduate study, has reached a maturity of purpose in his formation and has demonstrated the necessary qualifications for ordination. In the presence of the bishop, he publicly expresses his intention to complete his preparation for holy orders and his resolve to fully invest himself to that end, so that he will serve Christ and the Church.

— Carolyn A. Dinovo

Knights recognize Lenoir council for its work LENOIR — Grand Knight Freddie Rivero recently accepted the Knights of Columbus Gold Double Star Award from State Treasurer Dan Lange on behalf of St. Francis of Assisi Church’s Father Thomas McAvoy Council 9570. The Gold Double Star Award recognizes the Lenoir council for doubling its membership goal in 2016, and for its 2015-2016 Program Excellence in its service projects. Rivero, in receiving the award, thanked all the members of the council for their efforts and, in particular, singled out Deputy Grand Knight Ivan Cruz, in support of service projects, and Nathan Garretson, in doubling membership goals as membership chairman, for recognition.

— Michael FitzGerald

Director of Music St. Mary Magdalene (Simpsonville SC) is accepting applications for the full-time position of Director of Music. We are looking for a music professional committed to the service of the Church and the Pope’s vision to the New Evangelization.

The candidate will have a Bachelor’s Degree in Music (Master’s Degree or higher will be given additional preference) with at least five years in a parish setting. The candidate must be knowledgeable in Catholic liturgical practices and various styles and forms of church music and the incorporation of such into the Liturgy. Salary commensurate with experience and other benefits are available.

To apply see the parish web site under News & Upcoming Events. www.smmcc.org/209

For reservations, please call 336-714-3227 or go to ccdoc.org/partnersinhope

OUR PARISHESI

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catholicnewsherald.com | February 3, 2017 OUR PARISHES

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief Deacon recovering after accident HUNTERSVILLE — Deacon Robert Murphy of St. Mark Church was struck by a motor vehicle Jan. 26 while out walking with his wife, Angeles.

He was rushed to Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte with life-threatening injuries. As of press time he was listed in stable condition, scheduled to be moved to a rehabilitation center to recover. In lieu of well-wishes or flowers, Deacon Murphy has asked that donations be made to Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte.

— Catholic News Herald

Parish hosts anti-racism event with Roosevelt granddaughter

CCDOC.ORG

MOORESVILLE — All are welcome to attend “Racism: Where do we go from here?”, a free program hosted by St. Thérèse Church on Friday, Feb. 10, starting at 7 p.m., with a dinner preceding the program at 6:30 p.m. One of the speakers will be Nina Roosevelt Gibson, the granddaughter of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt, who will talk about the legacy of her grandmother and the lessons that her grandmother taught her on justice. Other speakers include Shannon Sullivan, professor

of philosophy and health psychology at UNCCharlotte, and Vincent Huntley, founder of CL Projects Inc. St. Thérèse Church is located at 217 Brawley School Road, in Mooresville. For details, go online to www.sainttherese.net/friday-night-live.

— Lisa Cash

Get ready for CRS Rice Bowl 2017 The upcoming 2017 Catholic Relief Services Rice Bowl Program begins on Ash Wednesday, March 1. Parishes and schools which participated in last year’s CRS Rice Bowl will receive the same number of materials again for this year’s CRS Rice Bowl with no need to place an order. (Shipments of Rice Bowl materials were scheduled to arrive in parishes and schools by mid-January). Parishes and schools that wish to participate for the first time, or participating parishes and schools which need additional materials, should call toll-free 1-800222-0025 or go to www.crsricebowl.org to place a new or updated order. Orders for first-time or additional CRS Rice Bowl materials that are requested by Monday, Feb. 13, should arrive in parishes and schools in time for distribution prior to the start of CRS Rice Bowl on Ash Wednesday.

Any questions? Contact Joseph Purello at Catholic Charities, who serves as the CRS diocesan liaison, at 704-370-3225 or jtpurello@ charlottediocese.org.

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

CCDOC.ORG

Discover Natural Family Planning Modern Natural Family Planning (NFP) provides a practical and empowering alternative used to achieve or avoid pregnancy. It upholds the dignity of the person within the context of marriage and family and promotes openness to life by respecting the love-giving and life-giving natures of marriage.

What will you learn?

• • • • •

Effectiveness of modern NFP methods.

Health, relational, and spiritual benefits.

Health risks of popular contraceptives.

Church teaching on marital sexuality.

How to use Natural Family Planning.

February 11th - St. Matthew Catholic Church, Charlotte, One Day Class February 17th - St. Barnabas Catholic Church, Arden, Three Class Series April 8th - St. Matthew Catholic Church, Charlotte, One Day Class For more information visit our website or contact Batrice Adcock, MSN at 704.370.3230 or bnadcock@charlottediocese.org.

Grieving Loved Ones Are Not Alone Last year, Catholic Charities provided 118 individuals with a dignified burial in Mecklenburg County. Catholic Charities is the only such program in the Char-Meck area to help families who do not have the means to bury their loved ones. Without such a program, these individuals would be left unclaimed at the morgue.

The Burial Assistance program serves families who have no insurance, are unable to negotiate with a funeral home or do not have the finances to pay the costs associated with death expenses.

If you need assistance, call 704.370.3232 to speak with a social worker. The program relies on the generosity of individual donors and community supporters. To donate, visit the website ccdoc.org.

facebook.com/ catholic news HERALD ESPAÑOL

February 3, 2017 | catholicnewsherald.com

Jorge Beltrán “Maestro, haz que pueda ver.” (Marcos 10:4652)

D

esde su ordenación como sacerdote en Zaragoza, en Marzo de 1925, el joven sacerdote Josemaría Escrivá de Balaguer pedía al Señor con insistencia lo mismo que el ciego Bartimeo cuando el Señor le pregunto: “¿Qué quieres que te conceda?: Maestro, que vea.” (Amigos de Dios, 197).

El 2 de Octubre de 1928, el sacerdote vio claramente la misión que Dios le encomendaba. Multitudes aspirando a la santidad. Personas que se esforzarían por santificar su trabajo, santificarse en su trabajo y santificar a los demás con su trabajo, en su vida ordinaria.

Nuestra primera obligación es formarnos; adquirir una recta doctrina. “Piedad de niños, por tanto, y doctrina segura de teólogos” (Es Cristo que pasa, 10). “¡Cada vez has de ensanchar más tu corazón, con hambre de apostolado! De cien almas nos interesan las cien,” (Surco, 183).

Mientras nos formamos, podemos invitar a otros “ayudarles a ser santos, sabiendo que en la tierra no seremos santos ninguno. No haremos más que luchar, luchar y luchar,” (Forja, 692). Todos nuestros esfuerzos serán inútiles si no contamos con la gracia de Dios. Para acercar otros a Dios: “Primero, oración; después, expiación; en tercer lugar, muy en ‘tercer lugar’, acción,” (Camino, 82).

“No son ustedes los que me eligieron a mí,” (Jn. 15:16).

A continuación relato algunos hechos que, increíble pero felizmente, condujeron a mi incorporación a la Prelatura del Opus Dei. El diez de Octubre de 1968, me gradué de Médico Veterinario de la Universidad Central de Venezuela. En 1984, uno de mis compañeros de promoción fue electo decano y me llamó para ocupar el puesto de

11

Camino de Santificación y Apostolado

director. Aquí, quiero resaltar cuatro ideas: amistad, confianza, llamado y coincidencia - ¿Providencia?

Poco después de estar en el cargo, recibí la visita de una señora que venía a solicitar se le agilizase la pensión que le correspondía como viuda de un docente. Estaba cansada de ir de oficina en oficina por más de un año sin obtener respuesta. Al siguiente día debía ir a las oficinas centrales en Caracas. Entre los documentos que llevaba incluí la pequeña nota. A los pocos días la señora volvió a mi oficina. Con gran alegría me informó que su problema se había resuelto ¡en menos de una semana! y me entregó un ejemplar del libro Camino. Ella y su difunto esposo eran supernumerarios del Opus Dei. ¿Providencia?

Mi esposa y yo íbamos a la Misa diaria de siete de la mañana con nuestros cuatro hijos, antes de llevarlos al colegio y nosotros a trabajar. A esa Misa asistía también un comerciante de origen canario.

Un día se acercó solicitando ayuda para algo y, simultáneamente me invitó a una actividad formativa del Opus Dei. Así, con dos personas que tropecé: una en mi trabajo y la otra en el templo; con un libro y una invitación, empezó mi relación con el Opus Dei. Las charlas que daba el sacerdote me impactaron. El hombre enseñaba con la autoridad del que sabe; predicaba con la emoción del que verdaderamente cree; vivía y practicaba con celo lo que predicaba. Y aquí estoy, treinta años después de mi admisión como supernumerario, el 29 de Junio de 1986, fiesta de San Pedro y San Pablo.

Los medios de formación de la Obra alimentaron mí deseo por profundizar en la doctrina de la Iglesia y, a la vez, fueron, y son, guías claras y desafíos para mi

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“No tengas espíritu pueblerino. — Agranda tu corazón, hasta que sea universal, ‘católico’. No vueles como un ave de corral, cuando puedes subir como las águilas,” (Camino, 7).

“Servidor bueno y fiel,” (Mt. 25:23).

Todos hemos recibido al menos un talento y estamos obligados a ponerlo a producir, sin excusas. No vaya a ser que el Señor, a la hora del juicio, nos responda como en Mateo 25: 26-30.

En los relatos precedentes, he hablado de familia, amistad, confianza, trabajo, alegría, llamada, vida interior, infancia espiritual, santidad y apostolado; motivo de preocupación y formación. Sin embargo, cualquiera de ellos debe ser atendido con “orden” para no correr el riesgo de dar vueltas como perro detrás de su cola.

El tiempo debe ser utilizado con criterio de eficiencia; en la vida espiritual, el tiempo no es oro !es gloria! Tenemos

que tener un plan de vida y cumplirlo.

Un instante vacio, será ocupado por el enemigo: Levantarse a hora fija, ofrecer el día y cada tarea; atender a la familia; tiempos fijos de oración (Santo Rosario, meditación) y de lectura espiritual (La Biblia, en primer lugar y otras lecturas recomendadas); la Santa Misa, acercarse al sacramento de la penitencia; visitar a Jesús Sacramentado; realizar bien el trabajo, ofrecerlo para que adquiera sentido sobrenatural, que sea santificado y medio para nuestra santificación y la santificación de otros.

Estas son algunas de las cosas que he venido aprendiendo y trato de cumplir.

Acudamos a María, Esperanza nuestra, Asiento de la Sabiduría, para que nos guie por este Camino de Santidad y Apostolado.

Jorge Beltrán es miembro de la Iglesia San Marcos en Huntersville. Beltrán es el encargado del grupo de estudio de doctrina católica en español.

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iiiFebruary 3, 2017 | catholicnewsherald.com

FROM TH

‘Your every act should be done with love’

2017 DSA campaign focuses on active charity SueAnn Howell Senior reporter

CHARLOTTE — In a letter to parishioners to kick off the 2017 Diocesan Support Appeal, Bishop Peter Jugis shares the words of St. Paul to the Corinthians, “Your every act should be done with love.” These words serve as the theme for this year’s campaign, which funds more than 50 programs and ministries across the Diocese of Charlotte.

“Sacred Scripture is filled with references to love and charity,” he notes. “Love is much more than just an emotion.

It calls us to action. It moves us to care for those in need.”

With that in mind, the people of the diocese are encouraged to help meet the 2017 goal of $5,670,000. This represents an increase of $370,000 or 7 percent over 2016, in large part because of the rapidly growing seminarian program.

The diocese currently has 23 men in formation at three seminaries, including seven enrolled at the new St. Joseph College Seminary in Charlotte, and it is anticipated that 10 more men will begin studies this fall. Five men are expected to be ordained to the priesthood on June 17.

The DSA campaign funds more than 50 programs, including the core operations of 23 ministries and agencies that serve thousands of people across the diocese – most notably, Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte for its counseling, food pantries, pregnancy support, refugee resettlement, elder ministry, Respect Life and other programs, as well as the programs and ministries of the Education Vicariate. It also supports multicultural ministries, seminarian education, the permanent diaconate, the annual Eucharistic Congress, and the diocese’s housing corporation.

Catholic Charities receives 34 percent of the funds collected in the campaign. Other DSA funds are allocated to: the Education Vicariate (29 percent); multicultural ministries (15 percent); vocations (10 percent); and the Eucharistic Congress and the diocesan housing ministry (7 percent). Campaign administrative costs are projected to be 5 percent.

Parishioners in all 92 parishes and missions in the diocese fund the annual DSA campaign.

Parishes that exceed their goal get to keep the extra funds they collect, while parishes which fall short of their goal in donations from parishioners make up the shortfall from their operating budgets.

Last year, the DSA campaign raised a record $5,760,369 from 17,360 donors across the diocese.

In his letter, Bishop Jugis said the DSA campaign “gives us an opportunity to ‘put love into action’ through personal prayers and financial gifts that will impact the lives of thousands of our brothers and sisters throughout the diocese.”

“We are able to share our love with others because God first loves us,” he said. “I am confident that you will put your love into action and help us bring Christ’s love to others.”

When we make our annual contribution to the DSA, we join with all our sisters and brothers in Christ throughout the diocese to do the Lord’s work – works of love that no one individual or parish can do alone.

Wh

15%

Th annu nam of pr sign

How to support the DSA PLEDGE: Make a pledge in response to a mailing you receive or in-pew appeal at your local parish. An individual DSA pledge may be paid in up to 10 installments by EFT, credit card or check. Pledging allows you to make a greater gift over time, without overburdening your budget. When you make a pledge, you will receive monthly reminder statements in the mail or by email until your pledge is paid, or until December 2017.

DONATE ONLINE: Donate online at www.charlottediocese.org/dsa, either with a one-time gift or recurring monthly gifts via credit or debit card. (If you give online, please do not complete a pledge envelope at your local parish. This could result in having two gift records.)

ONE-TIME DONATIONS: Give a one-time contribution in response to a mailing you receive or in-pew appeal at your local parish. Please make checks payable to the “DSA” and note the name of your parish in the memo line of the check. Do not send cash through the mail.

10%

29%

7% 5%

STOCK DONATION: Make a donation of publicly traded securities and receive the tax benefits for giving appreciated stock. Instructions are online at www.charlottediocese.org/donations.

Learn more On the Diocese of Charlotte’s YouTube channel and at www.catholicnewsherald.com: View the 2017 DSA video in English or Spanish For inquiries: Contact Kerry Ann Tornesello, associate director of development, at 704-370-3302 or email katornesello@charlottediocese.org.

34%

Note: This chart reflects which is allocated to these

HE COVER

February 3, 2017 | catholicnewsherald.comiii PARISH/MISSION

here does your money go?

he purpose of the Diocesan Support Appeal is to help provide the ual funding necessary to carry out the mission of our diocese – mely to fulfill our call to “grow ever more perfectly into a community raise, worship and witness, and to become a leaven of service and of peace through love in the Piedmont and Western North Carolina.”

34% CATHOLIC CHARITIES DIOCESE OF CHARLOTTE CC Administration CC Charlotte Office CC Triad Office CC Western NC Office Refugee Resettlement Office Office of Economic Opportunity Family Life Ministries Social Concerns and Advocacy, Respect Life Counseling Services Adoption and Pregnancy Support Direct Assistance (Food Pantries)

reflects projected 2017 DSA funding for $5.67 million these offices and ministries.

All parishes and missions in the diocese help fund the annual DSA. Parishes that exceed their goal in donations receive a rebate of 100 percent for the additional funds. Parishes that fall short of their goal in donations have the shortfall taken out of their operating budgets.

The DSA provides funding for the following:

29% EDUCATION

10% VOCATIONS

Adult Education/Evangelization Campus Ministry Faith Formation Office Youth Ministry Catholic Schools Offices Office of the Vicar of Education Media Resources

Seminarian Education Permanent Diaconate

15% MULTICULTURAL MINISTRIES Hispanic Ministries Hmong Ministry African American Ministry

7% OTHER Eucharistic Congress Housing Ministry

5% DSA CAMPAIGN COSTS

CITY

Christ the King Mission Kings Mountain Christ the King Church High Point Divine Redeemer Church Boonville Good Shepherd Mission King Holy Angels Church Mount Airy Holy Cross Church Kernersville Holy Family Church Clemmons Holy Infant Church Reidsville Holy Redeemer Church Andrews Holy Spirit Church Denver Holy Trinity Church Taylorsville Immaculate Conception Church Forest City Immaculate Conception Church Hendersonville Immaculate Conception Mission Canton Immaculate Heart of Mary Church High Point Immaculate Heart of Mary Mission Hayesville Our Lady of Consolation Church Charlotte Our Lady of Fatima Mission Winston-Salem Our Lady of Grace Church Greensboro Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission Cherokee Our Lady of Guadalupe Church Charlotte Our Lady of Lourdes Church Monroe Our Lady of Mercy Church Winston-Salem Our Lady of the Americas Church Biscoe Our Lady of the Angels Church Marion Our Lady of the Annunciation Church Albemarle Our Lady of the Assumption Church Charlotte Our Lady of the Highways Church Thomasville Our Lady of the Mountains Highlands Our Lady of the Rosary Church Lexington Prince of Peace Mission Robbinsville Queen of the Apostles Church Belmont Sacred Heart Church Brevard Sacred Heart Mission Wadesboro Sacred Heart Mission Burnsville Sacred Heart Church Salisbury St. Aloysius Church Hickory St. Andrew the Apostle Church Mars Hill St. Ann Church Charlotte St. Barnabas Church Arden St. Benedict Church Greensboro St. Benedict the Moor Church Winston-Salem St. Bernadette Mission Linville St. Charles Borromeo Church Morganton St. Dorothy Church Lincolnton St. Elizabeth Church Boone St. Eugene Church Asheville St. Frances of Rome Mission Sparta St. Francis of Assisi Church Franklin St. Francis of Assisi Church Jefferson St. Francis of Assisi Church Lenoir St. Francis of Assisi Church Mocksville St. Gabriel Church Charlotte St. Helen Mission Spencer Mountain St. James Church Concord St. James Church Hamlet St. Joan of Arc Candler St. John Baptist de La Salle Church North Wilkesboro St. John Lee Korean Church Charlotte St. John Neumann Church Charlotte St. John the Baptist Church Tryon St. John the Evangelist Church Waynesville St. Joseph Church Asheboro St. Joseph Church Bryson City St. Joseph Church Kannapolis St. Joseph Church Newton St. Joseph - Vietnamese Church Charlotte St. Joseph of the Hills Church Eden St. Jude Mission Sapphire St. Lawrence Basilica Asheville St. Leo the Great Church Winston-Salem St. Lucien Church Spruce Pine St. Luke Church Mint Hill St. Margaret Mary Church Swannanoa St. Margaret of Scotland Church Maggie Valley St. Mark Church Huntersville St. Mary Church Greensboro St. Mary Church Shelby St. Mary, Mother of God Church Sylva St. Matthew Church Charlotte St. Michael the Archangel Church Gastonia St. Patrick Cathedral Charlotte St. Paul the Apostle Church Greensboro St. Peter Church Charlotte St. Philip the Apostle Church Statesville St. Pius X Church Greensboro St. Stephen Mission Elkin St. Thérèse Church Mooresville St. Thomas Aquinas Church Charlotte St. Vincent de Paul Church Charlotte St. William Church Murphy

13

DSA GOAL $4,793 $13,197 $25,091 $12,556 $23,889 $76,740 $145,245 $19,625 $5,757 $61,104 $6,814 $39,450 $137,112 $3,486 $138,040 $19,757 $47,789 $9,542 $107,215 $4,279 $67,298 $53,138 $78,145 $28,424 $10,320 $28,199 $51,105 $16,961 $16,554 $19,388 $2,873 $85,112 $53,675 $2,320 $8,887 $97,907 $121,253 $8,499 $97,137 $80,320 $24,484 $12,369 $32,711 $49,338 $26,555 $39,745 $79,792 $8,858 $28,086 $15,535 $25,859 $17,736 $358,991 $5,158 $113,424 $12,687 $27,599 $16,130 $14,756 $106,482 $44,590 $16,576 $31,678 $5,947 $18,515 $24,330 $44,545 $11,596 $17,625 $71,873 $153,526 $8,617 $101,104 $23,016 $12,265 $251,697 $45,268 $24,669 $16,984 $834,178 $73,256 $84,673 $106,992 $136,095 $47,000 $184,286 $14,426 $167,200 $105,471 $124,720 $21,989

TOTAL $5,670,000

Our schools 14

catholicnewsherald.com | February 3, 2017 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Interim principal named for Christ the King High School HUNTERSVILLE — Brendan Keane has stepped down as principal at Christ the King High School, and Assistant Principal Michael Smith has been named interim principal for the remainder of this academic year.

Keane had served as principal of the Huntersville school since June 2014.

Citing the desire to spend more time with his family, Keane left to start a new job Jan. 23 as Smith co-director of the Eagle Impact Rugby Academy in North Carolina. He had already worked with EIRA as a regional coach for the Carolinas since 2013, and as an U16s head coach in 2015 and as an U17s head coach in 2016.

“After much thought and prayer, and with regret, I have decided to step down as the principal of Christ the King Catholic High School at the end of the first semester,” Keane told parents in a Jan. 10 letter.

“The past few years serving the community at CTK have been the highlight of my career in education. The parents, students, faculty, staff, and supporters of Christ the King are second to none in your endeavor to create a community pursuing an excellent and holistic educational experience for everyone involved. The willingness of each of you to try something new and step out on the edge to create not only a school, but also athletic teams, clubs,

support organizations, plays, musicals and a myriad of other programs is inspiring and humbling. So too is the generosity with which members of the community give their time, talents, and treasure to support the school in its mission and growth. I will never be able to thank you enough for giving me the opportunity to get to know you, to see your passions, and to be part of the amazing work going on at CTK,” he wrote.

Christ the King High School has about 230 students, making it the smallest of the Diocese of Charlotte’s three high schools. It opened in a temporary location in Mooresville in 2011 and moved to its current 100-acre location just outside Huntersville in 2013 to serve the growing Catholic population north of Charlotte.

The school graduated its first senior class in 2015.

The Diocese of Charlotte schools office aims to appoint a new principal before the start of the next academic year, Dr. Janice Ritter, superintendent, said.

“I am confident we will find a leader who can build on the great foundation which has been laid these past few years,” Ritter wrote in a letter to parents. “I know Mr. Keane takes with him the good wishes of the CTK stakeholders, and likewise Mr. Smith will have the support of those same stakeholders. I am confident the students, staff and parents of CTK will continue to be the strong community it has shown itself to be and will work together during this transition.”

— Catholic News Herald

Canongate High School wins top honors at state festival Karen Kater Special to the Catholic News Herald

FLETCHER — Canongate High School, an independent high school in the Catholic tradition, is celebrating after bringing home first-place honors from the 2016 North Carolina Theatre Conference High School Play Festival, recently held at Gardner Webb University.

The school’s theatre program, led by director Jennifer Murrey, presented “The Crane Wife,” a traditional Japanese folk tale. Not only did the young school win a superior rating and the Judges Choice Award for Distinguished Play, Murrey won an Excellence in Directing award and senior Quinn Kelsch was honored for excellence in acting. Additionally, the school won a Festival Spirit Award and Excellence in Set and Properties honors.

As a result of winning the Judges Choice Award, they were invited to perform at the North Carolina state conference in Greensboro.

Before going to the state conference, the Canongate troupe traveled to

Asheville Catholic and Immaculata School to preview the play before local audiences. The week before the state conference, Canongate students joined with Hendersonville High School actors to perform their plays, raising funds to offset both schools’ travel expenses and bringing awareness of Canongate to the Asheville area.

Canongate went on to present “The Crane Wife” at the state competition at Greensboro College Nov. 17-18. There they competed against 17 other high schools, and returned to Fletcher with both a superior rating and the Excellence in Puppetry Award.

The NCTC High School Play Festival is the largest high school theatre event in the Southeast. This year, 3,000 students from 90 schools performed 126 plays. The NCTC High School Play Festival is made possible with support from the N.C. Arts Council, The Beattie Foundation, Lincoln Financial Group, the Moore County Unrestricted Endowment Fund, and Barbizon Lighting Co.

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February 3, 2017 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

15

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief Diocesan School Board has openings for 2017-’18 year

Freedom in Christ Conference featuring:

CHARLOTTE — The Diocesan School Board has vacancies beginning with the 2017’18 school year. Knowing that this board is advisory/consultative to the superintendent and the bishop on matters relating to all diocesan schools, the board members put aside individual school or parish needs to work in the framework of the entire diocese.

To be eligible to serve, a board member must be a practicing Catholic, be a participating member of a diocesan parish, be at least 25 years old, be able to work effectively with others in achieving consensus, be willing to make necessary and substantial time commitments to attend meetings and related board activities including active participation on board committees, and have a genuine interest in and commitment to the diocesan school system.

The term of office is three years. Board members may serve two full or partial consecutive terms.

For details and an application, email Theresa Ramirez in the Catholic Schools Office at tramirez@charlottediocese.org. Applications and a pastor’s letter of verification/ recommendation are due by Feb. 17.

Interviews will be conducted with selected applicants. Appointments are made by the bishop.

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

Neal Lozano – best-selling author and Executive Director of Heart of the Father Ministries AND Janet Lozano – team trainer and mission leader for the Unbound Conference Ministry Unbound ministry empowers people to take hold of the freedom they have been given in Christ.

Leadership Training: PHOTO PROVIDED BY JORDAN DEVORE

March 10, 2017 from 8:30am – 4:30pm

SPACE IS LIMITED

Christ the King High School celebrates Bridge Week 2017

ONLINE EXCLUSIVE

HUNTERSVILLE — Watch this short video highlighting Bridge Week 2017 at Christ the King High School in Huntersville. The event was celebrated the week of Jan. 23-27. Students had an opportunity to step out of the classroom and listen to guest speakers, go on field trips and volunteer in community events like Special Olympics (pictured above). The theme for this year’s Bridge Week was “a call to family, community and participation,” interim principal Michael Smith explained.

— Rico De Silva, Hispanic Communications Reporter

Full Conference: March 11, 2017 from 8:00am – 4:30pm Training and Conference location: St. Joseph Catholic Church 108 St. Joseph Street Kannapolis, NC 28083 For more information or to register: www.unboundchltnc.org/conference

Catholic Schools Week January 29Catholic - February 4School

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catholicnewsherald.com | February 3, 2017 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

16

For the latest movie reviews: catholicnewsherald.com

On TV

free of anything genuinely objectionable, director Lasse Hallstrom’s screen version of W. Bruce Cameron’s bestselling 2010 novel is too potentially frightening for the smallest pups. And some grown viewers may find the four-legged protagonist’s New Age-style philosophizing a bore. Still, a good-hearted romantic wrap-up matching characters played by Dennis Quaid and Peggy Lipton as well as some droll humor throughout keep things cuddly.

Mature themes, including alcohol addiction, possible cohabitation, some stylized violence with brief gore, scenes of peril, light scatological humor.

In theaters

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

‘The Founder’

‘A Dog’s Purpose’ Pet lovers will revel in this slight but charming tale of a clever canine (voice of Josh Gad) and his adventures over a series of lifetimes as he is repeatedly reincarnated. His most significant bond is with a little boy (Bryce Gheisar) who grows into a high school football star (KJ Apa). Though he finds support in the love of his mother (Juliet Rylance) and, later, that of his girlfriend (Britt Robertson), the athlete’s life is increasingly darkened by his father’s (Luke Kirby) worsening alcoholism. During other intervals, the pooch serves as a police dog (trained by John Ortiz) and brightens the life of a lonely single gal (Kirby Howell-Baptiste). While

In chronicling the early history of McDonald’s, director John Lee Hancock’s drama makes compelling food for thought, if not exactly a happy meal. Michael Keaton plays Ray Kroc, a down-on-his-luck milkshake machine salesman in 1950s Illinois whose life is transformed when he travels to Southern California to meet two of his clients, brothers Richard (Nick Offerman) and Maurice (John Carroll Lynch) McDonald. Their hamburger restaurant, he discovers, is a model of efficiency, where orders are fulfilled in just 30 seconds. Kroc partners with the siblings to franchise their operation coast to coast, but eventually schemes to take over the business.

What follows is a cautionary tale about capitalism, greed and the dark side of the American dream. Probably acceptable for older teens. Mature themes, including divorce, brief profane and crude language.

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

n Friday, Feb. 3, 8 p.m. (EWTN) “Tshimangadzo: The Story of Benedict Daswa.” Details surrounding Blessed Benedict Daswa’s life as a beloved husband, father and devout Catholic who was eventually martyred for denouncing the ritualistic killings being done in South Africa. n Saturday, Feb. 4, 4 p.m. (EWTN) “The Face of Mercy.” A documentary on the origins of the Divine Mercy devotion and the personal impact it has had on the lives of several Catholics. n Wednesday, Feb. 8, 6:30 p.m.

(EWTN) “Rising from the Ashes.” A documentary on infant mortality in Sierra Leone and the alliance effort of the Healey International Foundation to bring hope and healing. n Thursday, Feb. 9, 6:30 p.m.

(EWTN) “Vailankanni: The Lourdes of the East.” Explore the unique Marian devotion at Vailankanni, India, known as the Lourdes of the East. n Friday, Feb. 10, 6:30 p.m. (EWTN) “Bernadette: St. of Lourdes.” The life of Bernadette Soubirous, peasant girl of Lourdes, France, to whom Our Lady appeared in 1858. The film calls

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us to find peace of mind and heart, as Bernadette did, even in the midst of chaos. n Friday, Feb. 10, 8 p.m. (EWTN) “St. Giuseppina Bakhita.” This story of Josephine Bakhita, the first African nun canonized by the Church, highlights her heroic virtue in the midst of physical suffering, and takes you to the cities of Italy where she lived after her release from slavery.

Learn about her release from slavery, her life as a religious, and hear an ongoing discussion between one of her Sisters and her blood brother and his rediscovery of the Church. n Saturday, Feb. 11, 8 p.m. (EWTN) “My Name is Bernadette.” After experiencing an extraordinary vision at a grotto, 15-year-old Bernadette Soubirous must cope with the distrust and disbelief of her fellow countrymen as she keeps the promise she made to the beautiful lady she envisioned. n Friday, Feb. 17, 6:30 p.m. (EWTN) “Out of the Shadows.” Dominican Father Allen White traces the origins of Roman Christianity from its obscure, house-church beginnings to its ultimate triumph over the imperial power.

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Spiritual Gifts from the Middle Ages Saturday, March 11, 2017 9:30am – 4:00pm Lisa Deam Medieval artists and mystics give us a gift in their creative works that express the soul’s yearning for God. During this day we will learn how their spirituality can enrich our walk of faith by looking at some works of art and writings of such mystics as Walter Hilton and Julian of Norwich. The program includes exercises that help us reflect on how medieval spirituality can meet our own.

Lisa Deam is an author and speaker in spiritual formation, with a Ph.D. in medieval art history and is the author of A World Transformed: Exploring the Spirituality of Medieval Maps.

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February 3, 2017 | catholicnewsherald.com catholic news heraldI

17

LIFE FROM PAGE 3

leaves with us: His hands forever raised in blessing us and remaining always with us even until the end of time.”

That prompts us to act as joyful disciples of the Lord, he said, emphasizing, “The evil of abortion is great, but the love of Christ is greater and more powerful.”

“You have come to the best place possible to help you in your work for the unborn, and that is the Holy Mass,” he continued.

“Never underestimate the power of the Eucharist in all of your work on behalf of the unborn to bring about change. It’s Jesus’ work.”

Referring to the Mass readings, Genesis 1:24-27 and Mark 10:13-16, Bishop Jugis reflected on the sanctity of life and how the “little ones” are important to Jesus.

“We must continue to tell our society that legalized abortion is unjust, a grave injustice to the ‘little ones,’” he said. “We must continue to ask: What about the human rights of the innocent child in the womb? Why is the right to life of the child in the womb not taken seriously? When are we going to correct this grave injustice?”

After Mass, marchers from the Charlotte and Raleigh dioceses made their way to join the thousands of other people marching up Constitution Avenue to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Maria Bigalli of St. Vincent de Paul Church in Charlotte and one of her three children attended the Mass and the march, her sixth time participating.

“They need to end abortion,” Bigalli said.

“I teach this to my kids. I have brought all of them to the march. Abortion is not right.”

Students from Charlotte Catholic and Christ the King high schools also attended the Mass and the march.

Charlotte Catholic senior Erin Lynch said she came because she wanted to speak up for those who are voiceless. “Even though you are only one voice, when you all join together it still makes a difference,” she said.

Fellow senior Ana Fitzpatrick was another first-time participant. “I am very prolife and I’ve always wanted to (come). I think it’s amazing that all of these people at the march aren’t all Catholic, but they all believe and stand for one thing. I think it’s very important that everyone is here to do that,” she said.

Christ the King student Joie Mills, also a first-time marcher, said, “Not only was this my first time participating in the March for Life, it was my first time participating in any type of protest march like this at all. The experience made me feel like I was doing something important and that I was a part of something special... It just feels

Bishop Peter Jugis (center) celebrated the N.C. Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception Jan. 27 prior to the March for Life in Washington, D.C. Raleigh diocesan administrator Monsignor Michael Shugrue and Omaha Archbishop George Lucas, along with priests of all three dioceses, concelebrated the Mass. Busloads of North Carolinians traveled to the nation’s capital to support the dignity of human life and witness for an end to abortion. sueann howell | catholic news herald

good to stand in solidarity with thousands of other people who all want to see a change.”

Belmont Abbey College brought 150 students and faculty to this year’s March for Life.

Senior Catie Russel said, “The whole experience was awesome – so many people coming together to be a voice for the voiceless.”

Bishop Jugis shared his thoughts on the March for Life as he watched the tens of thousands of men, women and children march past him.

“It’s a great day today, and I wish everyone could be with us to participate in this great march, but we know everyone at home is praying for respect for life in the U.S. and our prayers are being answered.

Respect for life, for the dignity for the unborn, is indeed increasing in our culture today, so keep up the prayers!” he said.

At the end of the march, priests and seminarians joined Bishop Jugis in praying the rosary in front of the Supreme Court building, a tradition for the Charlotte marchers. After the rosary and the singing of the Salve Regina, Bishop Jugis spoke a few words to those gathered around as the throngs of marchers filed past them.

“We’re here in front of the Supreme Court and the U.S. Capitol where the U.S. Congress meets, and possibly the most powerful piece of real estate in the entire world,” he said. “But we know, of course,

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that the greater power belongs to Almighty God, and His kingdom rules over all. So we place all of this – as well as our president, the Congress and the Supreme Court –

under the mighty, watchful protection and guidance of Our Blessed Lord.”

— Rachel McKimmon, correspondent, contributed.

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catholicnewsherald.com | February 3, 2017 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

‘Life is winning again in America,’ vice president tells March for Life Kurt Jensen and Julie Asher Catholic News Service

reinstating what’s called the Mexico City Policy, which bans tax dollars from funding groups that promote or perform abortion in other countries. He said the administration would work with Congress to stop taxpayer funding of abortion “and devote those resources to health care services for women across America.”

On Jan. 24, the House passed the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act, making the 41-year-old

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The leaders of the prolife movement are used to having the ear of the president, as they had with Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush.

During their respective administrations, they addressed the March for Life via telephone, but this year the event marking the Roe v. Wade anniversary had the highest-ranking government official ever to address the crowd in person.

“Life is winning again in America, and today is a celebration of that progress,” the official, Vice President Mike Pence, told the March for Life rally on the National Mall Jan. 27.

“More than 240 years ago, our founders declared these truths to be self-evident – that we are, all of us, endowed by our Creator with certain unalienable rights and that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” he said. “Forty-four years ago, our Supreme Court turned away from the first of these timeless ideals, but today, generations hence – because of all of you and the many thousands who stand with us in marches all across the nation – life is winning again in America.”

Pence said President Donald Trump had asked him to address the rally, which took place under a sunny sky with temperatures in the 40s. “He asked me to thank you for your support, for your stand CNS | Tyler Orsburn for life and your compassion Pro-life advocates celebrate the annual March for Life in Washington Jan. 27. for the women and children of America.”

Hyde Amendment permanent. The amendment, Other speakers included: New York Cardinal which has had to be approved each year as part of Timothy M. Dolan, chairman of the U.S. bishops’ the budget for the U.S. Department of Health and pro-life committee; Kellyanne Conway, Trump’s Human Services, prohibits tax dollars from paying campaign manager and now special adviser to the for abortion except in cases of rape, incest or threat president; Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa; and Reps. Mia to the woman’s life. The Senate has yet to act on a Love, R-Utah, and Chris Smith, R-N.J. companion bill, but Trump has said he will sign it Early that morning, Archbishop Christophe into law when the measure reaches his desk.

Pierre, apostolic nuncio to the United States, “I urge you to press on,” Pence told the rally. conveyed a message from Pope Francis to the “Let your gentleness be evident to all. Let this March for Life, saying the pontiff was “profoundly movement be known for love, not anger. Let grateful for this impressive testimony to the this movement be known for compassion, not sacredness of every human life.” confrontation. When it comes to matters of the “As he has made clear, so great is the value of heart, there is nothing stronger than gentleness. human life and so inalienable the right to life of an I believe we will continue to win the minds and innocent child growing in a mother’s womb that hearts of the rising generation if our hearts first no alleged right can justify a decision to terminate break for mothers and their unborn children and this life,” the nuncio said. meet them where they are with generosity, not Pope Francis “trusts that this event, in which so judgment.” many American citizens speak out on behalf of “You can sense the joy in people today,” Kristan the most defenseless of our bothers and sisters, Hawkins, president of Students for Life, told will contribute to a mobilization of consciences in defense of the right to life and effective measures to Catholic News Service. “I hope it’s not lost.”

Earlier in the week, march organizers predicted ensure its adequate legal protection,” Archbishop at least 50,000 would be there. But there were at Christopher said. least that many at the rally, and before it was The evening before the march, Pence also hosted over, marchers, including many busloads of organizers at the Executive Office Building next to parochial schoolchildren, covered the full width the White House. As a member of Congress, he had of Constitution Avenue, en route to the Supreme addressed the March for Life in 2002, 2003 and 2007.

Court, for at least seven blocks.

He pointed to Trump’s Jan. 23 executive action

Refugee ban brings outcry from Church leaders Catholic News Service

WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump’s executive memorandum intended to restrict the entry of terrorists coming to the United States brought an outcry from Catholic leaders across the U.S. Church leaders used phrases such as “devastating,” “chaotic” and “cruel” to describe the Jan. 27 action, titled “The Protection of the Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into the United States.”

During a Jan. 27 ceremony at the Pentagon’s Hall of Heroes as new Secretary of Defense James Mattis was sworn in, Trump said the move was meant to keep “Islamic terrorists out of the United States. We don’t want ‘em here. We want to make sure they don’t enter the country.”

He added, “The only ones we want to admit into our country are those who will support our county and deeply love our people. We will never forget the lessons of 9/11.”

The memorandum suspends the entire U.S. refugee resettlement program for 120 days and bans entry of all citizens from seven majority-Muslim countries – Syria, Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Yemen and Somalia – for 90 days.

These seven countries were identified under guidelines established in the Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015, which permits the Department of Homeland Security to limit travel for certain people who have traveled there.

The leadership of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops late Jan. 30 praised fellow prelates for “their witness” in speaking out against Trump’s actions and “in defense of God’s people,” and called on “all the Catholic faithful to join us as we unite our voices with all who speak in defense of human dignity.

“The bond between Christians and Muslims is founded on the unbreakable strength of charity and justice,” said Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo of Galveston-Houston, USCCB president, and Archbishop Jose H. Gomez of Los Angeles, USCCB vice president, in a joint statement.

Like all families, refugees “are seeking safety and security for their children,” they said. The U.S. “should welcome them as allies in a common fight against evil” and also “must screen vigilantly for infiltrators who would do us harm.” But the country “must always be equally vigilant in our welcome of friends.”

In a letter to the president and members of Congress, more than 2,000 religious leaders representing the Interfaith Immigration Coalition objected to the action.

The religious leaders’ letter said the U.S. has an “urgent moral responsibility to receive refugees and asylum seekers who are in dire need of safety.” The correspondence called on elected officials to “be bold in choosing moral, just policies that provide refuge for vulnerable individuals seeking protection.”

Among Catholics signing the letter was Mercy Sister Patricia McDermott, president of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas.

The heads of Catholic charitable agencies and organizations working with immigrants also decried the president’s action.

Sean Callahan, president and CEO of Catholic Relief Services, said: “Welcoming those in need is part of America’s DNA. Denying entry to people desperate enough to leave their homes, cross oceans in tiny boats, and abandon all their worldly possessions just to find safety will not make our nation safer. The United States is already using a thorough vetting process for refugees– especially for those from Syria and surrounding countries.”

Dominican Sister Donna Markham, president and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, said, “I am especially worried about the innocent children and mothers who have fled for their lives without support and are now caught in this regrettable and terribly frightening situation,” she said in a statement. “While I certainly appreciate the importance of vetting to ensure the safety of our country, I also believe we must treat those who are most vulnerable with compassion and mercy and with hearts willing to be opened wide in the face of dire human need.”

The president’s action also drew supporters, with organizations such as the Heritage Foundation and some Church leaders saying it was necessary to protect the country’s security.

In Defense of Christians, a Washington-based advocacy group supporting minority religious groups in Middle East countries, welcomed the move and hoped for quick implementation of the new security screening methods to ensure the safety of refugees and American citizens. The organization said vulnerable groups in war-torn countries should be assisted in efforts to promote local security and governance that stabilize communities and protect civilians so that peace and reconciliation can occur.

Soon after Trump signed the memorandum, Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wis., who is Catholic, commended the action, saying “our number one responsibility is to protect the homeland.”

“We are a compassionate nation, and I support the refugee resettlement program, but it’s time to re-evaluate and strengthen the visa vetting process. President Trump is right to make sure we are doing everything possible to know exactly who is entering our country,” Ryan said.

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In Brief Judge Neil Gorsuch nominated to fill Supreme Court vacancy WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump nominated Judge Neil Gorsuch to fill the seat on the U.S. Supreme Court that has been empty since the death of Justice Antonin Scalia last February. Gorsuch is a man the country needs, Trump said in announcing his nominee the evening of Jan. 31. He added that his pick for the high court already has had bipartisan support. When Trump announced his choice at the White House, in the audience was Maureen McCarthy Scalia, the widow of the late justice.

One of the couple’s children also was present: Father Paul Scalia, a priest of the Diocese of Arlington, Virginia. In his remarks, Gorsuch said he was thankful for friends, family and faith giving him balance. He also said he was honored and humbled to be chosen as a nominee to the nation’s highest court. He described Scalia as “lion of the law” and said he misses him.

Gorsuch, judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit, is 49, making him the youngest Supreme Court nominee in 25 years.

Newark auxiliary punched in mouth; alleged attacker arrested IRVINGTON, N.J. — Auxiliary Bishop Manuel A. Cruz of Newark told a congregation he was fine Jan. 29, the day after he had been punched in the mouth by an assailant. “He did meet and address the congregation this morning to tell everybody that he was fine and that, certainly, people should not be making this a matter that they can be worked up on,” said James Goodness, Newark archdiocesan spokesman, told the NJ.com website. “This was an isolated incident.” The Cuban-born Bishop Cruz, a Newark auxiliary since 2008, was at a Jan. 28 event for baseball Hall of Famer Robert Clemente when he was attacked. He was celebrating a special Mass for the late player at the Basilica Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Newark. Charles Miller was arrested by the Essex County Sheriff’s Office and charged with aggravated assault. The Essex County prosecutor’s office is handling the investigation. No motive was given for the attack. Bishop Cruz was taken to a hospital afterward with injuries that were not serious. He was released later that day and returned to the cathedral residence.

Catholics oppose Trump actions on border wall, sanctuary cities WASHINGTON, D.C. — Catholic organizations expressed distress and unease with President Donald J. Trump’s actions related to immigration while pledging to continue serving and supporting migrant people. The reactions came within hours of Trump’s signing of executive memorandums on national security Jan. 25 during a visit to the Department of Homeland Security. The memorandums authorized the construction of a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border and directed John F. Kelly, secretary of homeland security, to look at how federal funding streams can be cut for cities and states that illegally harbor those in the country without legal permission. Agencies cited the words of Pope Francis in criticizing the president’s actions and pledged to support and serve migrants in the United States. “Pope Francis has urged people not to close the door on migrants and refugees,” Dominican Sister Donna Markham, president and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, said in a statement. “In concert with the Holy Father, we believe we must move from attitudes of defensiveness and fear to

acceptance, compassion and encounter. “As the U.S. Catholic bishops have said, this is not an either/or situation for us,” Sister Donna added. We can protect our citizens and, at the same time, we can welcome newcomers. Our commitment to care for those who are most vulnerable resides at the core of our faith.”

Pro-life leaders praise vote to make Hyde Amendment permanent WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. House passage of the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act, making the 41-year-old Hyde Amendment permanent, puts the country “one step closer to getting the federal government out of the business of paying for abortion once and for all,” said the president of National Right to Life. “Over 2 million Americans are alive today because of the Hyde Amendment,” Carol Tobias said in a statement. By a 238-183 vote Jan. 24, House members passed H.R. 7, the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion and Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act of 2017. It was sponsored

by Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., co-chair of the Congressional Pro-Life Caucus. A companion bill has been introduced in the Senate by Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss. President Donald Trump indicated before the House vote he would sign the measure if it comes to his desk. “Two million people who would have been aborted instead survived because public funds were unavailable to effectuate their violent demise, while their mothers benefited from prenatal health care and support,” Smith said in a statement. “Two million survivors have had the opportunity to live and enjoy the first and most basic of all human rights – the right to life.”

Trump executive memorandum reinstates ‘Mexico City Policy’ WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump issued an executive memorandum Jan. 23 reinstating the “Mexico City Policy,” which bans all foreign nongovernmental organizations receiving U.S. funds from performing or promoting abortion as a method of family planning in other countries. The action was hailed by pro-life leaders. Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan of New York, chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee for Pro-Life Activities, applauded the news in a Jan. 23 statement. “This is a welcome step toward restoring and enforcing important federal policies that respect the most fundamental human right – the right to life – as well as the long-standing, bipartisan consensus against forcing Americans to participate in the violent act of abortion,” he said.

Though snubbed by Women’s March, pro-life groups still march WASHINGTON, D.C. — After being removed from a list of partner organizations for the Women’s March on Washington, members of a pro-life group based in Texas decided they still would take to the streets Jan. 21 to take part in the historic and massive event. And they said it was a good decision. “Overall it was an amazing experience,” said Destiny Herndon-De La Rosa, of New Wave Feminists, one of the groups removed as a march sponsor. “We were prepared for confrontation and instead were supported by so many women,” said HerndonDe La Rosa. The group posted photos on their Facebook and Instagram accounts of their participation, holding signs that read, “I’m a pro-life feminist.” “They kept coming up and telling us how glad they were that we were there and how, even though they didn’t necessarily agree on the abortion issue, they thought it wrong that we were removed as partners,” said Herndon-De La Rosa. The groups And Then There Were None and Students for Life of America also were denied or taken off the Women’s March roster. However, many members of those organizations still attended the march.

— Catholic News Service

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Never underestimate the courage and wisdom of women, pope says Junno Arocho Esteves Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY — The humble counsel of courageous women should never be disregarded but rather embraced as advice full of God’s divine wisdom, Pope Francis said.

Women like the biblical heroine Judith are an example of trusting God amid sufferings and difficulties when it is easy to give up hope and fall into despair, the pope said Jan. 25 during his weekly general audience.

“This is my opinion, but women are more courageous than men,” the pope said to applause.

Pope Francis focused his audience talk on Judith, “a woman of great beauty and wisdom,” who reproached the people of Israel for their lack of trust in God to deliver them from foreign invaders.

“They were at the point of saying, ‘God has sold us,’” the pope said.

“How many times have we come to situations that test our limits where we are not even able to trust in the Lord? It is an ugly temptation.”

Facing a situation full of despair, the pope continued, the people gave God five days to intervene. However, even in prayer they doubted that the Lord would help them.

“Five days are given to God to intervene – this is the sin! Five days of waiting but already expecting the end.

In reality, no one among the people is capable of hoping,” he said.

Pope Francis said that in the moment of despair, Judith confronts the people’s doubts with the “courageous language” of faith and hope.

Her courage, he explained, is a reminder for Christians “to knock on the door of God’s heart; He is a father, He can save us. This widow risks (everything), even of making herself look like a fool in front of the others. But she is courageous, she goes forward.”

Christians must “never put conditions on God,” the pope said.

Instead, they should allow “hope to conquer our fears.”

“To trust God means entering into His plans without assuming anything” and to believe that “He knows better than us,” the pope said.

The story of Judith exemplifies the importance of the “courageous counsel” of humble women, Pope Francis said. Their words, he added, contain “the wisdom of God” and should never be “dismissed as ignorant.”

“The words of grandmothers – how many times do grandmothers know the right word to say,” the pope said.

“They give words of hope because they have the experience of life, they have suffered so much, they trusted in God and the Lord gave them this gift of giving us hopeful advice.”

Vatican officials visit war-torn city of Aleppo Junno Arocho Esteves Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY — Conveying Pope Francis’ closeness to the Syrian people, a Vatican delegation visited Aleppo following the end of the hostilities that left thousands dead and the city in ruins.

Monsignor Giampietro Dal Toso, secretary-delegate of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, visited the city Jan. 18-23, accompanied by Cardinal Mario Zenari, apostolic nuncio to Syria, and Monsignor Thomas Habib, an official at the nunciature, the Vatican said Jan. 24.

The delegation met with “Christian communities and their pastors, who expressed gratitude to the pope for his constant concern for beloved Syria,” the statement said.

They also visited several refugee camps and Catholic institutions assisting in relief efforts, including a humanitarian assistance center run by Caritas Aleppo.

According to the Vatican, during a meeting with the Church’s charitable institutions, Monsignor Dal Toso and the delegation emphasized the importance of providing relief assistance to the Syrian people.

“With the support of the universal Church and thanks to the generous contribution of the international community, such help may be intensified in the future to meet the growing needs of the people,” the Vatican said.

Members of the delegation also took part in an ecumenical prayer service that coincided with the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, as well as several meetings with Islamic representatives.

The “responsibilities of religions in educating for peace and reconciliation” was among the issues discussed during the meetings, the Vatican noted.

CNS | Khalil Ashawi, Reuters

Boys carry sandwiches Jan. 20 in Aleppo, Syria. Conveying Pope Francis’ closeness to the Syrian people, a Vatican delegation visited Aleppo Jan. 18-23 following the end of the hostilities that left thousands dead and the city in ruins.

Iraqi patriarch: Fast track for Christian refugees will fuel tensions Carol Glatz Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY — Giving priority to Christian refugees for settlement programs would be “a trap” that discriminates and fuels religious tensions in the Middle East, said Iraq’s Chaldean Catholic patriarch.

“Every reception policy that discriminates (between) the persecuted and suffering on religious grounds ultimately harms the Christians of the East” and would be “a trap for Christians in the Middle East,” said Patriarch Louis Sako of Baghdad.

The patriarch, speaking to Fides, the news agency of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, commented on an executive action by U.S. President Donald Trump that temporarily stops from U.S. entry refugees from all over the world and migrants from seven countries in an attempt to review the screening process.

The document asks that once the ban is lifted, refugee claims based on religious persecution be prioritized.

Patriarch Sako said any preferential treatment based on religion provides the kind of arguments used by those who propagate “propaganda and prejudice that attack native Christian communities of the Middle East as ‘foreign bodies’” or as groups that are “supported and defended by Western powers.”

“These discriminating choices,” he said, “create and feed tensions with our Muslim fellow citizens. Those who seek help do not need to be divided according to religious labels. And we do not want privileges. This is what the Gospel teaches, and what was pointed out by Pope Francis, who welcomed refugees in Rome who fled from the Middle East, both Christians and Muslims without distinction.”

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of

Manila, Philippines, president of Caritas Internationalis, said any policy that gave priorities to Christians “might revive some of these animosities and might even pit Christians against Muslims, and that (also) might generate contrary action from the Muslims against Christians.”

“This is a time when we don’t want to add to the prejudice, the biases and even discriminatory attitudes evolving in the world,” he told Catholic News Service

‘The bottom line is the centrality and dignity of the human person.’

Jesuit Father Michael Czerny

Undersecretary for migrants and refugees for the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development in Beirut Jan. 30 at the Caritas Lebanon headquarters.

Emphasizing that he had not read the text of the executive action, but only news reports, the Philippine cardinal said announcing a ban being applied to specific countries was akin to “labeling them – and the migrants coming from those countries – as possible threats to a country. I think it is quite a generalization that needs to be justified.”

Cardinal Tagle, who has visited refugee settlements as part of his role as Caritas president, said he asks people who express reservations about receiving refugees and migrants, “Have you ever talked to a real refugee? Have you heard stories of real persons?”

“Very often, the refugee issue is reduced

to statistics and an abstraction,” he said, and when people actually talk with refugees, “you realize that there is a human story, a global story (there) and if you just open your ears, your eyes, your heart then you could say, ‘This could be my mother.

This could be my father. This could be my brother, my child.’

“These are human lives,” he said. “So, for people making decisions on the global level, please know that whatever you decide touches persons for better or for worse. And if our decisions are not based on the respect for human dignity and for what is good, then we will just be prolonging this problem – creating conflicts that drive people away.”

Canadian Jesuit Father Michael Czerny, undersecretary for migrants and refugees at the Vatican’s new Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, told CNS in Rome that Christians are asked to reflect on the Good Samaritan and not to “react and act as if the plight of migrants and refugees is none of our business.”

Richer countries should not only welcome those who are fleeing, they “can do much more to help improve security and living, working, education and health opportunities in the refugee- and migrantproducing countries,” he said in a written statement.

More effort should be put into peacemaking and more resources dedicated to “helpful foreign aid.”

“The role of government is to enact its people’s values, keeping different factors in balance. National security is important, but always in balance with human security, which includes values like openness, solidarity, hope for the future,” he said.

“The bottom line,” he said “is the centrality and dignity of the human person, where you cannot favor ‘us’ and ‘them,’ citizens over others.”

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In Brief Iraqi Christian leader visiting Mosul sees little future for Christians MOSUL, Iraq — As some residents of the city of Mosul celebrate their new freedom from the Islamic State group, an Iraqi Christian leader who visited the war-torn city said Christian residents are unlikely to return. “I don’t see a future for Christians in Mosul,” said Father Emanuel Youkhana, a priest, or archimandrite, of the Assyrian Church of the East. Father Youkhana, who runs Christian Aid Program Northern Iraq, a Christian program for displaced Iraqis around the city of Dohuk, entered Mosul in a military convoy Jan. 27, the day Iraqi officials raised the national flag over the eastern part of the city. Islamic State seized the city in 2014, causing Christians and other minorities to flee. Once inside Mosul, Father Youkhana moved about freely, talking to residents and soldiers. He visited two churches, both heavily damaged. “The churches were used as warehouses by Daesh,” he said, referring to the terrorist group by its common Arabic name. “They used the churches to store what they looted from Christian and Yezidi villages, but as the end neared they sold the buildings to local contractors, who started tearing down the walls to reuse the steel inside. If the army hadn’t entered for another couple of weeks, the buildings might have been completely destroyed.”

Culture alone cannot be blamed for drop in vocations, pope says VATICAN CITY — While there is a need to evangelize a culture that tells young people money equals success and commitments aren’t forever, stopping the “hemorrhage” of people leaving religious orders also requires changes from the orders themselves, Pope Francis said. “Alongside much holiness – there is much holiness in consecrated life – there also are situations of counter-witness that make fidelity difficult,” the pope said Jan. 28 during a meeting with members of the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life and representatives of religious orders. The congregation was holding a plenary meeting focused on “fidelity and abandonment,” examining the factors that contribute to a lifelong commitment to religious vows or to leaving consecrated life. According to the Vatican’s Central Statistics Office, from the end of 2004 to the end of 2014, the number of religious-order priests in the world declined by more than 2,500 to just under 135,000; the number of religious brothers dropped by 471 to just over 54,500; and the number of women religious fell by almost 85,000 – 11 percent – to about 683,000 religious.

Pope encourages Knights of Malta to continue path of renewal VATICAN CITY — As the Sovereign Military Order of Malta accepted Pope Francis’ intervention in their governance, the pope urged members to follow a path of renewal as they prepare to elect a new grand master.

In accordance with the pope’s wishes, the governing council of the order accepted the resignation Jan. 28 of Fra Matthew Festing as grand master and appointed Fra Ludwig Hoffmann von Rumerstein to temporarily lead

the chivalric order. By “putting aside personal interests and dangerous ambitions,” members, volunteers and benefactors of the order can better dedicate themselves to the “noble and proven mission” of defending the faith and serving the poor, the pope wrote in a Jan. 27 letter to von Rumerstein, lieutenant ad interim of the order. “The witness of an authentic Christian life makes accompanying the sick more accepted and effective, and charity toward the poor and vulnerable people of society more fraternal,” the pope wrote. The Knights of Malta have 13,500 members, as well as 80,000 volunteers and 25,000 medical professionals providing relief and humanitarian aid in 120 countries.

Christian unity requires learning from each other, pope says VATICAN CITY — Divided Christians need to recognize the gifts God has given to other communities and learn from them “without waiting for the others to learn first,” Pope Francis said. Leading an ecumenical evening prayer service Jan. 25 for the close of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, Pope Francis said Christians must overcome the “temptations of self-absorption that prevent us from perceiving how the Holy Spirit is at work outside our familiar surroundings,” including in the lives of other Christian communities. The Vatican’s Sistine Chapel Choir and the Anglican Westminster Abbey Choir sang at the service at Rome’s Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. Pope Francis walked to the tomb of St. Paul, under the basilica’s main altar, and prayed there with Orthodox Metropolitan Gennadios of Italy, the representative of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, and with Anglican Archbishop David Moxon, the representative of the archbishop of Canterbury.

At the end of the service, the two took turns with Pope Francis in reading segments of the solemn blessing and in blessing the congregation with the sign of the cross.

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Church must accompany couples before, after marriage, pope says VATICAN CITY — To ensure engaged couples are entering into a fully Catholic marriage and remain committed to their vows for life, they must be prepared properly beforehand and supported afterward, Pope Francis said.

Addressing members of the Roman Rota, a tribunal handling mostly marriage cases, the pope said Jan. 21. the Church cannot ignore there is a “widespread mentality” that is convinced eternal truths do not exist and, therefore, many young people do not understand what the sacrament is and that it is for life. The Church’s response, he said, must be to provide serious preparation for engaged couples and support that would help newlyweds mature in their vocation.

— Catholic News Service

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catholicnewsherald.com | February 3, 2017 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Catholic Schools Week

As we reflect on our many successes, we say ‘thank you!’

Dr. Janice Ritter

C

atholic Schools Week is a wonderful time to reflect on our Catholic schools in the Diocese of Charlotte.

Our schools continue to be outstanding institutions, where our students can deepen their faith, expand their knowledge base and pursue areas of personal interest via a wide variety of co-curricular activities. Concurrently with these pursuits, students learn to give of themselves by being of service to others. Collectively, students in our 19 schools give more than 50,000 hours of service each year to a wide variety of parish and community organizations. That is certainly a very tangible way our students live the Gospel values they learn.

When looking at our students’ performance on a variety of assessment measures, it is evident they score above the national and local averages. Our three high schools continue to enjoy a 100 percent graduation rate, with 98 percent of our graduates going on to higher education. As a system, all levels of instruction, from pre-kindergarten to 12th grade, can rightfully share in these outstanding statistics because every level of instruction helps develop our young people.

These quantitative measures are helpful because they provide concrete evidence of students’ success.

However, the true measure of our success will not be revealed solely via test scores, but rather seen when walking the halls or grounds of our schools.

A look into any of our classrooms shows students who are ready to learn and focused on success – not only as students but also as members of the community. Our administrators and teachers work diligently to create positive learning environments, but it is the students who capitalize on these by bringing to their studies a sense of respect, a sense of purpose and a strong work ethic – qualities first learned in the home.

However, it is perhaps what our students do when motivated solely by their own sense of right that most clearly brings to life the lessons learned in our schools. Recently, a group of second-graders at one of our schools was enjoying some time outside, when, on their own, they gathered around and began to pray the rosary. Not too long ago, a group of our high school students met at a local library to study. Their behavior was so impressive that a library patron took the time to write a note of commendation to the principal. The behavior our students exhibit, when they think no one is watching, speaks volumes about who they are and reflects the true value of a Catholic education.

Catholic Schools Week is also the perfect opportunity to thank the many people who support our schools in so many ways. Among these are our clergy, members of our various school boards, PTO volunteers and community members who share their time and expertise with us.

I also would like to thank our parents, who put their faith in our schools and entrust us with their children. The financial sacrifices you make to provide your children with the gift of a Catholic education is recognized and appreciated. I thank you for your continued dedication to our schools.

Letter to the editor

Working locally we can end abortion in Charlotte

On Jan. 27, many faithful Catholics trekked to Washington, D.C., to attend the annual March for Life on the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court case that legalized abortion in our country.

The annual event encourages support in overturning Roe v. Wade. The day was one of prayer, fasting and public witness for life. It began with Bishop Peter Jugis offering the North Carolina Mass for Life before marching on to the Supreme Court.

The event has ended and the faithful have returned to their homes. Many leave the March for Life inspired, wanting to do more locally yet feel discouraged that little can be done until Roe v. Wade is overturned.

While there is renewed hope with the new presidential administration, we should recognize that ending abortion requires the active and communal participation of all the Catholics – especially at the local level.

Do not wait for a court decision that may never come.

In their landmark document, “A Pastoral Plan for Pro-Life Activities,” the U.S. bishops outlined four areas where Catholics can become involved with pro-life work: public awareness and education, pastoral and material care for women and their babies, public policy advocacy, and prayer and worship.

Are all of these requirements addressed and implemented in our parishes? We have

Dr. Janice Ritter is superintendent of the Diocese of Charlotte schools system.

Full coverage online At www.catholicnewsherald.com: Check out photos and videos from Catholic Schools Week events and activities around the diocese

seen evidence in other communities that the prayers and efforts of local faithful have helped to close many abortion facilities. While there are seven abortion facilities in the Diocese of Charlotte, the entire state of Missouri has one facility.

What can we do locally? Based on the bishops’ plan, here are suggestions to start: n Join your parish’s Respect Life Committee. If your parish doesn’t have one, talk to your pastor about starting one up or contact Jessica Grabowski, Catholic Charities’ Respect Life programs director. n Support your local maternity and crisis pregnancy centers – especially Catholic ones - through donations and volunteering (MiraVia and Stanton Healthcare are run locally by Catholics). n Pray in front of the abortion facility.

This form of prayer is by far the most important and urgent. Seventy-five abortion facilities have closed, 141 abortions workers have quit, and countless babies saved due just to the international 40 Days for Life campaign. n Join the diocese’s www.

CatholicVoiceNC.org as well as private campaigns such as N.C. Right to Life and the N.C. Family Policy Council, and encourage your friends and family to sign up. The diocese’s public policy arm provides updates about pro-life and profamily legislation and action you can take

at home. n Read the Church’s teaching on life issues (including “Evangelium Vitae” and “Humane Vitae”) and become familiar with the message of Our Lady of Fatima, whose 100th anniversary we mark this year. Our Lady’s message at Fatima is directly tied to the pro-life issue. n Organize prayer and worship events at your parish. These can include weekly rosaries, fasting campaigns, and Masses and Holy Hours of Reparation to atone for the sins of abortion and the conversion of our society. As St. Louis de Montfort noted, when we pray in common, it is far more formidable to the devil, as it is an army attacking him.

If all Catholics dedicated more time to local evangelization, pastoral assistance, prayer, public policy and public witness, we may see the culture of death surprisingly crumble like the Iron Curtain did in 1989. We at C-PLAN are ready to assist those who feel called to get involved locally in Charlotte.

Let us not wait for public policy to change a culture that can be converted by prayer. As St. John Paul II, said, “Be not afraid.”

David DeBrosse, Mike FitzGerald, Terri Geraci, Tammy Harris, Diane Hoefling, Mary Manz and Kristine Monda are members of the Catholic Pro-Life Action Network of Charlotte (C-PLAN). For more information about C-PLAN, go to www.prolifecharlotte.org.

Letters policy The Catholic News Herald welcomes letters from readers. We ask that letters be originals of 250 words or fewer, pertain to recent newspaper content or Catholic issues, and be written from a perspective of Christian charity.

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

The Catholic News Herald does not publish poetry, form letters or petitions. Items submitted to The Catholic News Herald become the property of the newspaper and are subject to reuse, in whole or in part, in print, electronic formats and archives.

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Parish spotlight

Bishop Robert Barron

O

Why goodness depends on God

ne of the commonest observations made by opponents of religion is that we don’t need God in order to have a coherent and integral morality. Atheists and agnostics are extremely sensitive to the charge that the rejection of God will conduce automatically to moral chaos.

Consequently, they argue that a robust sense of ethics can be grounded in the consensus of the human community over time or in the intuitions and sensibilities of decent people, etc.

What I would like to do is lay out, in very brief compass, the Catholic understanding of the relationship between morality and the existence of God and to show, thereby, why it is indispensably important for a society that wishes to maintain its moral integrity to maintain, at the same time, a vibrant belief in God. Why do we do the things that we do?

What motivates us ethically? Right now, I am typing words on my keyboard. Why am I doing that? Well, I want to finish my weekly column. Why do I want to do that?

I want to communicate the truth as I see it to an audience who might benefit from it.

Why would I want that? Well, I’m convinced that the truth is good in itself. Do you see what we’ve uncovered by this simple exercise? By searching out the motivation for the act of typing words, we have come to a basic or fundamental good, a value that is worthwhile for its own sake. My acts of typing, writing and communicating are subordinate, finally, to the intrinsic value of the truth. Take another example.

Just before composing that last sentence, I took a swig of water from a plastic bottle on my desk. Why did I do that? Well, I was thirsty and wanted to slake my thirst. But why did I want to do that? Hydrating my system is healthy. Why is health important?

Because it sustains my life. Why is life worth pursuing? Well, because life is good in itself. Once more, this analysis of desire has revealed a basic or irreducible good.

Catholic moral philosophy recognizes, besides truth and life, other basic values, including friendship, justice and beauty, and it sees them as the structuring elements of the moral life.

When Pope Benedict XVI complained about a “dictatorship of relativism” and when Catholic philosophers worry over the triumph of the subjective in our culture, they are expressing their concerns that these irreducible values have been forgotten or occluded.

In her great meditations on the sovereignty of the good, the Irish philosopher Iris Murdoch strenuously insists that the authentic good legitimately imposes itself on the human will and is not a creation of that will. At the limit, contemporary subjectivism apotheosizes the will so that it becomes the source of value, but this puffing up of our freedom is actually ruinous, for it prevents the appropriation of the objective values that will truly benefit us.

This “basic goods” theory also grounds

the keen Catholic sense that there are certain acts which are intrinsically evil, that is, wrong no matter the circumstances of the act or the motivations of the agent.

Slavery, the sexual abuse of children, adultery, racism, murder, etc., are intrinsically evil precisely because they involve direct attacks on basic goods.

The moment we unmoor a moral system from these objective values, no act can be designated as intrinsically evil and from that state of affairs moral chaos follows.

So far we have determined the objectivity of the ethical enterprise, but how does God figure into the system? Couldn’t an honest secularist hold to objective moral goods but not hold to God’s existence? Let’s return to our analysis of the will in action. As we saw, the will is motivated, even in its simplest moves, by some sense, perhaps inchoate, of a moral value: truth, life, beauty, justice, etc. But having achieved some worldly good – say of writing this column, or slaking a thirst, or educating a child – the will is only incompletely satisfied. In point of fact, the achievement of some finite good tends to spur the will to want more of that good.

Every scientist or philosopher knows that the answering of one question tends to open a hundred new ones; every social activist knows that righting one wrong awakens a desire to right a hundred more. Indeed, no achievement of truth, justice, life or beauty in this world can satisfy the will, for the will is ordered to each of those goods in its properly unconditioned form. As Bernard Lonergan said, “the mind wants to know everything about everything.”

And as St. Augustine said, “Lord, you have made us for yourself; therefore our heart is restless until it rests in thee.” You’ve noticed that I’ve slipped God somewhat slyly into the discussion! But I haven’t done so illegitimately, for in the Catholic philosophical tradition, “God” is the name that we give to absolute or unconditioned goodness, justice, truth and life.

Now we can see the relationship between God and the basic goods that ground the moral life: the latter are reflections of and participations in the former. As C.S. Lewis points out in “Mere Christianity,” the moral absolutes are, therefore, signposts of God. And this is precisely why the negation of God leads by a short route to the negation of moral absolutes and finally to a crass subjectivism.

Removing God is tantamount to removing the ground for the basic goods, and once the basic goods have been eliminated, all that is left is the self-legislating and self-creating will. Thus, we should be wary indeed when atheists and agnostics blithely suggest that morality can endure apart from God. Much truer is Dostoyevsky’s observation that once God is removed, anything is permissible.

Bishop Robert Barron is the founder of Word on Fire Catholic Ministries and auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. He is also the host of “Catholicism,” an award-winning documentary about the Catholic faith.

Exhibit on St. Teresa SALISBURY — Parishioners at Sacred Heart Church were recently treated to an exhibit featuring St. Teresa’s life through picture panels depicting her life from birth to canonization. They also venerated a firstclass relic that was displayed during all Masses Jan. 21-22. The “Exhibit of Love & Mercy” was brought by the Missionaries of Charity and included 75 full-color panels of her life story – from her birth and vocation story, to her incredible life works of love and mercy devoted to the heart of Jesus and serving the sick, poor, hungry, lonely and vulnerable. Seventh-graders at Sacred Heart School also drew artwork to express their love of St. Teresa.

PHOTOS BY Bill Washington | Catholic News Herald

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catholicnewsherald.com | February 3, 2017 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD