Sept. 27, 2019

September 27, 2019

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

Seven diocesan schools receive FFHL tuition assistance funds 5

New Catholic Charities program aims to lift families out of poverty 5

INDEX

Contact us.....................................4 Español.......................................... 7-9 Events calendar............................4 Our Faith........................................2 Our Parishes............................ 3-6 Schools........................................ 12 Scripture readings.......................2 TV & Movies................................. 13 U.S. news.................................14-15 Viewpoints..............................18-19 World news............................. 16-17

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Thea House: ‘A true treasure’ New Campus Ministry location dedicated in Greensboro

Celebrate Respect Life Month 10-11

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Jóvenes del Vicariato de Gastonia ‘hicieron lío’ 7

Our faith 2

catholicnewsherald.com | September 27, 2019 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Pope Francis

Calumny, slander is a ‘diabolical cancer’

T

he act of bearing false witness to destroy someone is an attack against the body of the Church, Pope Francis said.

Christians who engage in calumny are like those responsible for the martyrdom of St. Stephen; they chose “the pettiest solution to annihilate a human being: slander and false witness,” the pope said Sept. 25 during his weekly general audience.

“We know that calumny always kills,” he said. “This ‘diabolical cancer’ of calumny – born from a desire to destroy a person’s reputation – also assaults the rest of the ecclesial body and seriously damages it when, for petty interests or to cover their own faults, (people) unite to sully someone.”

The pope continued his series of talks on the Acts of the Apostles and reflected on the life and martyrdom of St. Stephen, one of seven deacons chosen by the apostles to serve the early Christian communities.

The ministry of the diaconate, he explained, was created by the apostles to serve the community through works of charity, and a person called to be a deacon is “the guardian of service in the Church,” not “a second-rate priest.”

“The deacon is not for the altar, he is there for service,” the pope said.

“When a deacon likes to go too much to the altar, he is mistaken. This isn’t the path.”

The harmony that existed between the apostles, who preached the word of God, and the deacons, who served through works of charity, is “the leaven that makes the ecclesial body grow,” he added.

When challenged by the religious establishment of his day, “Stephen doesn’t mince words, he speaks clearly.

He says the truth,” the pope said.

Even facing death, he continued, St. Stephen “does not seek loopholes, he does not appeal to personalities who can save him but puts his life back into the hands of the Lord.”

St. Stephen, he said, “teaches us that it isn’t beautiful speeches that reveal our identity as children of God, but only in abandoning one’s life into the hands of the Father and forgiving those who offend can we see the quality of our faith.”

“The martyrs are not ‘plastic saints,’ but men and women of flesh and bone who – as the Book of Revelation says – ‘washed their clothes, making them white in the blood of the lamb.’ They are the true winners,” the pope said.

St. Lorenzo Ruiz: first Filipino saint and martyr Feast day: Sept. 28 St. Lorenzo Ruiz was born around the year 1600 in Binondo, Manila, in the Philippines. He was the son of a Chinese father and a Filipino mother. Both were Christians and took care to raise Lorenzo as a Catholic. He served happily in his parish church as an altar boy and calligrapher.

As a young man, Lorenzo joined the Dominican Confraternity of the Most Holy Rosary. Later, he married a woman named Rosario and the happy couple had three children, two sons and one daughter. By all accounts, the family was ordinary and happy.

In 1636, Lorenzo was accused of murder, allegedly having killed a Spaniard. However, to protect his safety at the time, he fled home and found refuge on board a ship with three Dominican priests and a leper. There are no details of this alleged crime other than a journal entry by two Dominican priests, that he joined their group to escape possible arrest. The ship departed the Philippines on June 10, 1636, bound for Okinawa.

A shock awaited the passengers when they arrived in Japan. At the time of their arrival, the rulers of Japan, the Tokugawa Shogunate, were persecuting Christians. Prior to this persecution, the Christian population of Japan was thought to number 50,000 souls.

Lorenzo was arrested by Japanese officials for the crime of being a Christian and ordered to recant his faith. When he refused, he was imprisoned for two years. On Sept. 27, 1637, Lorenzo and his companions were taken to Nagasaki to be tortured and killed if they would not recant their faith.

Lorenzo and his companions were tortured by water, which was forced into their mouths and down their throats and out

their noses and ears. Despite the painful torture, the men refused to do so.

Following this, Lorenzo was hanged upside down, with a rope around his ankles. This method of torture was known as tsurushi, or “gallows and pit.”

The torture forces a person to be hanged upside down with a gash cut in their forehead to prevent too much blood from gathering in the head. The gash also causes the victim to bleed to death over an extended period of time.

Those who have survived the torture have said it is unbearable. One hand is left free so the victim can offer an agreed symbol that will represent their desire to recant their faith. Those few who recant are spared and allowed to live.

But few people ever recanted – choosing instead to die for their faith.

Lorenzo refused to recant.

According to the record of his death, his last words were, “I am a Catholic and wholeheartedly do accept death for God. Had I a thousand lives, all these to Him I shall offer. Do with me as you please.”

His traveling companions were also all killed, steadfast until the end.

Lorenzo was beatified by Pope John Paul II on Feb. 18, 1981.

The beatification ceremony was held in the Philippines – the first beatification ceremony ever held outside the Vatican.

A miracle attributed to his intercession occurred in 1983.

A 2-year-old girl, Alegria Policarpio who had suffered from hydrocephaly since birth, was miraculously cured.

His canonization took place at the Vatican on Oct.18, 1987.

St. Lorenzo Ruiz is the patron saint of Filipino youth, the Philippines, people working overseas, and altar servers.

— Source: www.catholic.org

Daily Scripture readings SEPT. 29-OCT. 5

Sunday: Amos 6:1, 4-7, 1 Timothy 6:11-16, Luke 16:1931; Monday (St. Jerome): Zechariah 8:1-8, Luke 9:46-50; Tuesday (St. Therese of the Child Jesus): Zechariah 8:2023, Luke 9:51-56; Wednesday (The Holy Guardian Angels): Nehemiah: 2:1-8, Matthew 18:1-5, 10; Thursday: Nehemiah 8:1-12, Luke 10:1-12; Friday (St. Francis of Assisi): Baruch 1:15-22, Luke 10:13-16; Saturday (BI. Francis Xavier Seelos): Baruch 4:5-12, 27-29, Luke 10:17-24

OCT. 6-12

Sunday: Habakkuk 1:2-3, 2:2-4, 2 Timothy 1:6-8, 13-14, Luke 17:510; Monday (Our Lady of the Rosary): Jonah 1:1-2:3-5, 8, Luke 10:25-37; Tuesday: Jonah 3:1-10, Luke 10:38-42; Wednesday (St. Denis and Companions; St. John Leonardi): Jonah 4:1-11, Luke 11:1-4; Thursday: Malachi 3:13-20, Luke 11:5-13; Friday (St. John XXIII): Joel 1:13-15, 2:1-2, Luke 11:15-26; Saturday: Joel 4:12-21, Luke 11:27-28

OCT. 13-19

Sunday: 2 Kings 5:14-17, 2 Timothy 2:8-13, Luke 17:11-19; Monday (St. Callistus I): Romans 1:1-7, Luke 11:29-32; Tuesday (St. Teresa of Jesus): Romans 1:16-25, Luke 11:37-41; Wednesday (St. Hedwig; St. Margaret Alacoque): Romans 2:1-11, Luke 11:42-46; Thursday (St. Ignatius of Antioch): Romans 3:21-30, Luke 11:47-54; Friday (St. Luke): 2 Timothy 4:10-17, Luke 10:1-9; Saturday (Sts. John de Brébeuf, Isaac Jogues and Companions): Romans 4:13, 16-18, Luke 12:8-12

Our parishes

September 27, 2019 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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Thea House’s new location was dedicated Sept. 21 in Greensboro. (Right) Pictured outside Thea House at the dedication ceremony are Father William Allegretto, Myles Njenga, Sa’Darius Rhodes, Father Marcel Armadi, Osinor Kakhu, Dominise Duliepre, Paula Wambui, Alex Martinez, Nina Blue, Father David Hyman and Wicklife Arasa Osano.

(Far right) Thea House is named in memory of Sister Thea Bowman, a Catholic nun whose cause for canonization is under way.

Franciscan Father David Hyman, former campus minister, and Father Marcel Amadi, current campus minister, pray during the dedication of the chapel at Thea House. Students (from left) Nina Blue, Osinor Kakhu and Myles Njenga look forward to using the new Campus Ministry location.

PHOTOS BY GEORGIANNA PENN | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Thea House: ‘A true treasure’ GEORGIANNA PENN CORRESPONDENT

GREENSBORO — Students, clergy, diocesan representatives and friends gathered to celebrate the opening of the new Thea House Sept. 21. Thea House serves as the home for the Catholic Campus Ministry program at N.C. A&T State University and Bennett College.

“We are blessed,” said Father Marcel Amadi, who serves as campus minister.

The Sept. 21 celebration began with warm greetings and testimonies from Mary Wright, diocesan director of Campus and Young Adult Ministry.

“We are so blessed to have this house, and to have people who have supported Thea House gather with us today. We look forward to continuing these relationships, and look to create new ones in the future,” Wright said.

Father Amadi thanked many who helped the Campus Ministry group during its transition to the new location.

Then he, Father William Allegretto, pastor of St. Mary’s Church in Greensboro, and Franciscan Father David Hyman walked through and blessed each room in the new Thea House.

Thea House was opened in 1992 by the Franciscan Friars of Holy Name Province. Father Hyman, the first campus minister for Thea House, noted, “Small is beautiful,” referring to the roots of Thea House.

Thea House strives to provide spiritual and intellectual assistance to students of both Greensboro area colleges.

It was named in memory of Sister Thea Bowman, a Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration nationally known for her efforts to encourage African American Catholics to be proud of their heritage and their faith. A convert to the faith, Bowman was the granddaughter of slaves and the only African-American member of her order, transcending racism to leave a lasting mark on Catholic life in the United States in the late 20th century. She died in 1990 and her cause for canonization was recently endorsed by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

In 1994, Thea House became part of the Diocese of Charlotte’s Catholic Campus Ministry program.

Alberta Hairston, lovingly known as “Mama H.”, became campus minister for Thea House in 1994, serving there until her retirement in 2013.

At the Sept. 21 dedication, students and supporters spoke of their love for Thea House and what its presence has meant to them.

“What I found there was a true treasure,” said graduate Nadra Taylor. “For me, Thea House was Mama H. and Thea House was a place of refuge. In the South, there are not a lot of black Catholics and at Thea House you found people who were like you.”

“Thea House anchored me in my Catholic faith,” Taylor said.

It “was just a godsend when my daughter came here,” said Nathan Wagner, alumni parent and strong supporter of Thea House.

Calling it “a home away from home,” he said Thea House “kept my daughter close to the Catholic faith.”

“When Mama H. retired, I prayed and prayed for God to send us someone special,” said longtime supporter Erma Griffin.

Father Amadi was the answered prayer, Griffin said. “He stepped in with a smile.”

In January of this year, Thea House had to quickly vacate its original location on Bluford Street, and the ministry was soon displaced – with nowhere to go.

“The best way I can summarize it is to say every disappointment is a blessing,” said Father Amadi.

“Sometimes we cry when things don’t go the way we want them to go. But when we just turn around and look, God could be showing us something better.”

Friend of Thea House and “grandmommy” to many, Griffin offered up her own home as a temporary Thea House until a permanent home could be found.

“A child is precious. And when they come from afar, you want them to continue to feel precious,” Griffin said.

Whether it’s a home-cooked meal, a Bible study or just

a listening ear, Griffin provided not just her home, but her heart. Though Griffin insists, “It was the students and Father Marcel who kept the Spirit alive. It was like the early Church. We thought about when the disciples went house to house preaching the Good News of Christ. The Spirit – you could just feel it.”

The new permanent location on North Dudley Street will enable the Campus Ministry program at N.C. A&T and Bennett to continue to flourish.

The celebration continued with expressions of gratitude for the many blessings of Thea House. Father Amadi thanked Wright, whose team assisted in locating, renovating and furnishing the new facility. He thanked St. Mary’s and St. Pius X parishes in Greensboro for donations and spiritual support over the years. And in honor of “Mama H.” Hairston, a new monstrance was blessed.

Thea House’s student president, Paula Wambui, hopes to increase the growth of Thea House by 50 percent through a mentoring program for younger students this year.

Student vice president Osinor Kakhu inspired guests, reminding them that at Thea House, everyone is called to follow in the footsteps of Sister Thea Bowman.

“It is her example that has contributed to my spiritual development as a lifelong member of the Catholic Church,” Kakhu said. “Just as Sister Thea Bowman was an established leader who moved the hearts and minds of many, it my responsibility to do likewise while also remembering that even outside of this house’s grounds, I must continue to represent this campus ministry as one who not only makes verbal references to the Gospel, but incorporates action along with my words.”

Support their work At catholiconcampus.com: Learn more about the Diocese of Charlotte’s Campus Ministry program and how you can support its work. Financial support for the Campus Ministry at Thea House can also be made by sending a check payable to “Thea House” to 131 N. Dudley St., Greensboro, NC 27401.

UPcoming events 4

catholicnewsherald.com | September 27, 2019 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Bishop Peter J. Jugis will participate in the following upcoming events: SEPT. 28 – 5 P.M.

OCT. 2 – 6 P.M.

Pastor Installation of Father W. Christian Cook Immaculate Conception Church, Hendersonville SEPT. 30 – 6 P.M. Sacrament of Confirmation St. Elizabeth Church, Boone

OCT. 15 – 6 P.M.

OCT. 6-11

Sacrament of Confirmation

Sacrament of Confirmation

Annual Priests’ Retreat

St. Francis of Assisi Church, Jefferson OCT. 5 – 4 P.M.

St. Francis of Assisi Church, Mocksville OCT. 13 – 12:30 P.M.

Mass for 75th Parish Anniversary Our Lady of the Rosary Church, Lexington

OCT. 16 – 10 A.M.

Holy Mass with Equestrian Order of Knights and Ladies St. Patrick Cathedral, Charlotte

Diocesan Finance Council Meeting Pastoral Center, Charlotte

Diocesan calendar of events September 27, 2019

ENTERTAINMENT

Volume 28 • NUMBER 26

MOVIE ‘UNPLANNED’: 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 27, St. Eugene Church, 72 Culvern St., Asheville. Learn the powerful story of Abby Johnson’s conversion from Planned Parenthood clinic director to passionate prolife advocate. Anyone under 17 years of age requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. For details, contact Debbie Wadhams at respectlife.steugene@gmail. com.

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

PERPETUAL HOPE GOSPEL CHOIR PRESENTS ‘SOUND OF VICTORY’: 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 3, Our Lady of Consolation Church, 2301 Statesville Ave., Charlotte ESPAÑOL

STAFF EDITOR: Patricia L. Guilfoyle 704-370-3334, plguilfoyle@charlottediocese.org ADVERTISING MANAGER: Kevin Eagan 704-370-3332, keeagan@charlottediocese.org SENIOR REPORTER: SueAnn Howell 704-370-3354, sahowell@charlottediocese.org ONLINE REPORTER: Kimberly Bender 704-808-7341, kdbender@charlottediocese.org HISPANIC COMMUNICATIONS REPORTER: Cesar Hurtado, 704-370-3375, rchurtado@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.

PROGRAMA EDUCATIVO, ‘PREVENCIÓN DE ESTAFAS Y FRAUDES’: 3:30-5 p.m. Martes, 1ro de octubre, Catholic Charities, 612 East 14th St., Winston-Salem, y 1:30-3 p.m.

Martes, 15 de octubre, Catholic Charities, 1123 South Church St., Charlotte. Descubra las razones por las cuales usted puede ser víctima de fraudes y estafas, los tipos de estafas que más comúnmente apuntan a las personas mayores, consejos para evitar ser estafado, qué hacer si ha sido víctima de una estafa. Presentado por A. Mercedes Restucha-Klem, Abogada de Políticas y Difusión, Departamento de Justicia de Carolina del Norte, Sección Protección Ciudadana. Inscríbase respondiendo a Sandra Breakfield, Directora del Programa Elder Ministry, al 704-370-3220 o por email a sabreakfield@ charlottediocese.org, o Paola Quiterio Candelaria al 336-727-0705.

PRAYER SERVICES & GROUPS 110-YEAR DEDICATION ANNIVERSARY OF ST. LAWRENCE BASILICA: Tuesday, Oct. 1, St. Lawrence Basilica, 97 Haywood St., Asheville. Schedule as follows: 7:30 a.m. Mass, 10 a.m. Basilica Tour, 11 a.m. Organ Recital, 12:10 p.m. Solemn Holy Mass, 1:15 p.m. potluck snacks. One of the year’s Basilica Days, when a plenary indulgence may be obtained under the usual conditions.

VIGIL OF THE TWO HEARTS: Oct. 4-5, Friday and Saturday, St. Patrick Cathedral, 1621 Dilworth Road East, Charlotte. Join in an overnight vigil to honor the Hearts of Jesus and Mary, to pray for our families, to offer penance for our sins, and to pray for the conversion of our nation. Father Brian Becker will be the Friday celebrant. Sign up for Eucharistic Adoration at www.

ProlifeCharlotte.org/two-hearts.com. Sponsored by C-PLAN of Charlotte.

4TH ANNUAL RESPECT LIFE CONFERENCE: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 5, St. Vincent de Paul Church, 6828 Old Reid Road, Charlotte. Come for a day of education on a variety of pro-life topics including: bioethics, abortion reversal, dignity at the beginning of life, abortion research and end-of-life ethics. Keynote speaker: Paul Scherz, Ph.D., a professor of Moral Theology and Ethics at Catholic University of America where he focuses on bioethics.

The conference is free, and lunch is included. To register, visit ccdoc.org/respectlife. For questions, email Jessica Grabowski, Diocese of Charlotte Respect Life program director, at jrgrabowski@charlottediocese.org.

PRO-LIFE ROSARY: 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, 901 North

Main St. and Sunset Drive, High Point. Come and help pray for the end of abortion, and feel free to invite anyone who would be morally supportive of this very important cause. For details, email Jim Hoyng at Ajhoyng@hotmail. com or Paul Klosterman at Pauljklosterman@aol.com.

PUBLIC SQUARE ROSARY: Noon, Saturday, Oct. 12, at the corner of Ballantyne Commons Pkwy. and Rea Road, Charlotte. The Public Square Rosary rallies take place on the closest Saturday to Oct. 13, the feast of the last apparition of Our Lady of Fatima and the Miracle of the Sun. Hosted by St. Matthew Church. For details, call Pearl at 227-459-0567.

ANNIVERSARY OF THE CONSECRATION OF ST. LAWRENCE BASILICA: Sunday, Oct. 13, St. Lawrence Basilica, 97 Haywood St., Asheville. Schedule as follows: 9 a.m. Solemn Holy Mass, 10:30 a.m. potluck snacks, Noon Solemn Holy Mass, 5 p.m. Misa Solemnis (Español), 6:15 p.m. Potluck snacks. One of the year’s Basilica Days, when a plenary indulgence may be obtained under the usual conditions.

WOMEN’S MORNING OF REFLECTION, ‘RIVER OF WISDOM – A RETREAT GUIDE ON THE ROSARY’: 8:30-11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 19, Our Lady of Grace School Library, 1730 Link Road, Winston-Salem. Reflection will take place following the 8 a.m. Mass offered in the church.

The morning will include refreshments, praying of the Rosary and small group discussions. To register, visit www.rcwomenOct19.eventbrite.com. Donations accepted at the door. For details, contact Kate Boschini at regnumchristitriad@gmail.com or 336-430-8856.

ST. THOMAS MORE RED MASS: 12:10 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 29, St. Peter Church, 507 S. Tryon St., Charlotte. Abbot Placid Solari, OSB, will be the main celebrant. For details, contact the parish office at 704-332-2901.

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, Oct. 5, St. Barnabas Church, 109 Crescent Hill Dr. BELMONT: 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, Queen of the Apostles Church, 503 North Main St. KERNERSVILLE: 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 29, Holy Cross Church, 616 South Cherry St. STATESVILLE: 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 7, St. Philip the Apostle Church, 525 Camden Dr. WAYNESVILLE: 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 3, St. John the Evangelist Church, 234 Church St.

This workshop will help you take back control of your pain and your life. Learn how to: manage symptoms, communicate effectively, manage stress and fatigue, build your confidence, make daily tasks easier and incorporate exercise into daily routines. For details and registration, contact Sandra Breakfield at 704-370-3220 or email sabreakfield@charlottediocese.org.

MATTER OF BALANCE: 10 a.m.-noon, 8-week sessions on Thursdays, Oct. 3-Nov. 21, St. Matthew Church, 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy., Charlotte. Do you have concerns about falling? Are you interested in improving your flexibility, balance and strength? A Matter of Balance can help reduce the fear of falling and increase the activity levels of older adults who have concerns about falling. Participants will learn to: View falls and fear of falling as controllable, set realistic goals for increasing activity, change their environment to reduce fall risk factors, promote exercise to increase strength and balance. For details and registration, call Sandra Breakfield at 704-370-3220.

EDUCATIONAL PRESENTATION ‘FRAUD & SCAMS PREVENTION’: 1:30 -3 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 15, Catholic Charities, 1612 East 14th St., Winston-Salem, and 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 15, Catholic Charities, 1123 South Church St., Charlotte. Presented by A. Mercedes Restucha-Klem, Outreach and Policy Counsel for the N.C. Department of Justice–Public Protection Section.

Sponsored by Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte.

To register, contact Sandra Breakfield at sabreakfield@ charlottediocese.org, or Sylvia Sekle, Direct Assistance Coordinator, at 704-370-3295 or smsekle@ charlottediocese.org by Monday, Oct. 14.

FREE ESTATE PLANNING SEMINAR: 6:30-8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 28, Diocese of Charlotte Pastoral Center, 1123 South Church St., Charlotte. Learn about wills, trusts, powers of attorney, probate, bequests, and other planned gifts as well as Catholic teachings on end-of-life issues. Attorney Christian Cherry with Crisp, Cherry, McCraw in Charlotte will present legal information on how to coordinate estate planning with your overall financial plan while providing security for your family and loved ones. Q&A available after presentation. For details and registration, contact Judy Smith at jmsmith@charlottediocese.org or 704-370-3320.

9TH BISHOP BEGLEY CONFERENCE ON APPALACHIA, ‘WORKING FOR SAFE AND AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN FAR WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA’: 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 2, in the Multi-Purpose Room of the Macon County Robert C. Carpenter Community Facilities Building, 1288 Georgia Road, Franklin. The conference will focus on affordable housing in the far western counties of North Carolina, its causes and its effects on vulnerable populations and the efforts being made to address this concern. For details and registration, visit www.ccdoc.org/education.

SEMINARS & WORKSHOPS LIVING HEALTHY WITH CHRONIC PAIN: 9:30-11 a.m., 6-week sessions on Fridays, Oct. 11-Nov. 22, St. Vincent de Paul Church, 6828 Old Reid Road, Charlotte. Are you aged 18 or older with an ongoing health condition?

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.

September 27, 2019 | catholicnewsherald.com

Seven diocesan schools receive FFHL tuition assistance funds SUEANN HOWELL SENIOR REPORTER

CHARLOTTE — Funds from the Diocese of Charlotte’s “Forward in Faith, Hope, and Love” campaign specifically earmarked for tuition assistance are being distributed again this fall. Seven diocesan schools received a total of $148,980 in tuition aid for the 2019-’20 school year.

The $65 million FFHL campaign, which is funding capital needs and endowments for parishes and ministries across the diocese, among other initiatives, is expected to bring in more than $4 million to fund a tuition assistance endowment for the diocese’s 19 schools.

The FFHL campaign surpassed its goal in pledges and has received $52.5 million in payments through August 2019.

That amount is expected to rise as pledge payments continue coming in through 2019 and 2020.

This year, $148,980 has been awarded to seven diocesan schools for the 2019-’20 school year. The funds helped participating Catholic families with the greatest financial need, and all schools that applied received funding: Asheville Catholic School, Bishop McGuinness High School in Kernersville, Immaculata School in Hendersonville, Immaculate Heart of Mary School in High Point, Our Lady of Grace School in Greensboro, St. Leo School in Winston-Salem and St. Michael School in Gastonia.

Interim Superintendent of Catholic Schools Debbie Mixer noted, “The tuition assistance from FFHL provides a needed boost to schools and their families who want a Catholic education, but may not have the financial resources necessary. It is wonderful to see the collaboration of multiple sources to facilitate a Catholic education for those who desire it.”

“Immaculata Catholic School was very excited and thankful to receive tuition assistance from the ‘Forward in Faith, Hope, and Love’ endowment,” said Principal Margaret Beale. “This assistance has allowed students to continue their education journey in a Catholic environment who might otherwise not be able to do so.

“Receiving this aid from the diocese has lifted some of the burden from the parish of Immaculate Conception, which continually and lovingly supports all of us at Immaculata Catholic School. The charity and giving spirit of all those throughout the Diocese of Charlotte allow us to continue the work that God has given to us – educating His children with a foundation in Catholic values,” Beale said.

The tuition assistance endowment is being administered by a committee consisting of the diocesan superintendent of schools, chief financial officer and members of the diocesan school board. Available income from the endowment is being distributed to qualifying diocesan schools each year for student financial aid.

An endowment is a permanent fund, the principal of which is never touched, but the income from which can be used according to the wishes of the donor organization or individual. Endowments provide a way to generate income and help sustain the long-term strength and viability of the recipient parish, school or ministry.

In 2017, FFHL tuition assistance totaling $49,372 was given out for the first time to four diocesan schools. In 2018, $76,265 was awarded to six schools.

To qualify for the tuition assistance money, the school must receive local parish support of at least $500 per participating Catholic student and must have awarded all of its tuition assistance funds already available for that school year. Schools that do not receive $500 per student in parish support may be considered if there are extenuating financial circumstances that preclude this level of support. Qualifying schools may request funds from the FFHL endowment for participating Catholic students with a financial need determined to be 75 percent or greater of the family’s full tuition and fees responsibility to the school as determined by a third-party tuition assistance company.

The tuition assistance endowment is one of seven endowments being funded through the FFHL campaign.

“FFHL funds have already been going to the parishes, capital projects and endowments across the diocese. This distribution is from one of the seven endowments,” said Jim Kelley, diocesan director of development. “FFHL has had a significant impact on the work being done in parishes and in ministries across the diocese that provide services to parishioners.”

OUR PARISHESI

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Catholic Charities takes personalized approach to helping people in need New program aims to lift families out of poverty SUEANN HOWELL SENIOR REPORTER

CHARLOTTE — Upholding the dignity of every person is at the core of what Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte does every day, and that mission is being reflected even more strongly this year with additional services the agency has incorporated into its food pantry program.

Catholic Charities has shifted from focusing solely on the immediate food crisis to attending to the whole person by providing a wide range of help when they come in – what’s called “wrap-around” services. The initiative is called Transition Out of Poverty, or TOP, and it’s now in place at all three of Catholic Charities’ locations: Asheville, Charlotte and Winston-Salem.

Sharon Davis, Program Assurance Director for Catholic Charities, notes that Catholic Charities staff were seeing people repeatedly coming back to their food pantries for help. Clearly, she said, they needed to get to the root causes of their plight and provide more effective help so they could become self-sufficient.

Spurring their efforts is the area’s persistent poverty rate: in 16 counties of the diocese, the poverty rate is higher than the national average of 14.6 percent, and in some counties, the poverty rate for children is as high as 40 percent.

Over the past two years, Catholic Charities’ food pantries have given out 1.1 million pounds of food to 28,515 people. But Catholic Charities leaders have recognized the urgent need to do more to reduce poverty in the diocese.

TOP assesses a family’s needs in five areas: access to food, access to affordable health care, safe and affordable housing, opportunities for adults who need education, and employment.

Participating TOP families receive a month’s worth of food, but going a step further, Catholic Charities pairs each family with highly-trained volunteers case – someone who will be there to offer support, guidance and education. Both the family and the volunteer also benefit from the guidance of Catholic Charities’ professional staff.

“This work means that the community of faith will walk side by side for the right of all to have food,

education, housing, health care and employment and to make a living wage to provide for their families,” Davis notes.

TOP enables Catholic Charities to accompany, assist and strengthen each family they serve, fulfilling its mission to “strengthen families, build communities and reduce poverty.”

“TOP offers individuals and families the opportunity to receive a customized path out of poverty,” Davis says.

“Catholic Charities values the totality of the human

Want to help?

Catholic Charities needs many volunteers to run the Transition Out of Poverty program as well as donations to meet the increased need for food. Volunteer roles include those wishing to work directly with program participants as a coach or guide (intensive training provided), receptionists, intake and assessment volunteers, food packers and shoppers.

If you’re interested in lending a hand, go online to www.ccdoc. org to get details. person as an integral component of service delivery.

We help families to focus on these areas by making sure they have access to healthy, nutritious food from our pantry. As one of the most basic human needs, food security – having reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food – is a critical component of wrap-around services,” she says.

Without first having adequate food and shelter, people in need cannot escape from poverty even with Catholic Charities’ best efforts. “It is compassionate and humane to address the food security of those who come to Catholic Charities,” Davis says.

Volunteer Deb Kapopoulos says, “As one of the volunteer receptionists, I really see the value in the Transition Out of Poverty program. Our new TOP program allows us to serve our participants more personally than the previous, walk-in food pantry.

“The appointment-based structure gives the POVERTY, SEE PAGE 20

Miles joins Catholic Charities’ new Greensboro office GREENSBORO —Meghan Miles has joined Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte as a full-time case management coordinator in its new Greensboro office, located at 2311 W. Cone Blvd., Suite 144 and 145.

Case management services add to the mental health counseling already available locally by Catholic Charities.

Residents of Guilford, Randolph and Rockingham counties may seek now services closer to home.

Local services will remove a proximity barrier for some individuals and families seeking help, Miles says. While her office is in Greensboro, she will travel to High Point and communities in Randolph and Rockingham counties to meet with individuals.

Miles is meeting with parish staff in the three counties to gain an understanding of the needs in each community. She is also meeting with organizations in Greensboro, High Point and throughout the area to introduce herself and develop partnerships to provide services for those seeking help.

“Through our continued presence

and growth in the High Point and Greensboro communities, CCDOC will make profound impacts,” Miles says.

“It is my hope that when a parish or community member is in need of a referral, a resource or wants to contribute to the community at large, they will consider our office a resource for them. We are thankful to have the strength and Miles support of our local parishes and I want to be that for them as well.”

Miles notes that while many local entities help residents with one aspect of a crisis, Catholic Charities uses a holistic approach that looks at a person’s entire situation to address areas of critical need that are affecting their household stability and security.

In this model, people work to identify goals, strategize to overcoming hurdles,

and move forward one step at a time toward self-sufficiency.

“To date, we have assisted a number of participants with varied need through referrals, direct involvement or though agency collaboration,” Miles explains.

“We also have assisted local Catholic parishes in establishing connections to area agencies to further the outreach of several parish ministry endeavors.”

It is the role of Catholic Charities staff and volunteers to support and encourage those seeking to change the trajectory of their lives.

Becky DuBois, regional director of the Piedmont Triad office in Winston-Salem, adds, “Catholic Charities is building partnerships with community coalitions to participate in meeting the needs of residents of Greensboro, High Point and the surrounding area. I am pleased that Catholic Charities has expanded local services in Guilford, Randolph and Rockingham counties, and look forward to additional expanded services in the future.”

— SueAnn Howell, senior reporter. Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte contributed.

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catholicnewsherald.com | September 27, 2019 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief St. Stephen Maronite Parish welcomes new administrator CHARLOTTE — Bishop Gregory Mansour of the Maronite Eparchy of St. Maron has appointed Father Elias Khalil as administrator of St. George Church in Uniontown, Pa., outside of Pittsburgh. Father Khalil has served as parochial vicar at St. Matthew Church and administrator of St. Stephen Maronite Church in Charlotte.

Father Tony Youssef has been named administrator of St. Stephen Maronite Church. His first Mass at St. Stephen will be offered Oct. 6.

Chaplain assigned KERNERSVILLE — Bishop Peter Jugis announces that Father Noah Carter has been appointed chaplain of Bishop McGuinness High School effective Sept. 12.

St. George Trek applications open CHARLOTTE — The Charlotte Diocese Catholic Committee on Scouting is excited to invite qualified Catholic youth registered in the programs of the Boy Scouts of America to apply to attend the 2020 St. George Trek at Philmont Scout Ranch.

The Charlotte Diocese Catholic Committee on Scouting will pay the $925 St. George Trek program fee for two participants.

Designed to develop organizational and relational skills for leadership as well as nourishing the scout’s spirituality, the St. George Trek (set for July 8-23, 2020) brings together Catholic high school youth from

around the country with selected priests, religious and seminarians for 11 days of backpacking in the context of a vocation retreat. Two days will be spent at the Madonna Retreat House in Albuquerque, N.M., preparing for the trek and one day will be spent there at the conclusion of the trek. The St. George Trek encourages the integration of morality and values, spirituality, faith and Scripture with the responsibilities of Christian leadership and vocation awareness.

Catholic Scouts and Venturers who will be 15 years old on or before July 8, 2020, and in high school in the fall of 2020 are eligible to apply.

Selection will be made on the basis of demonstrated leadership potential, earning Catholic Scouting religious emblems, participation in the Charlotte Diocese Catholic Camporee, and involvement in church, school and community activities. Participants must also have the physical health and stamina to backpack on the mountain trails of Philmont.

The deadline to apply is Monday, Sept.

30. More information is online at www. catholicnewsherald.com.

For registration information and inquiries, contact Mike Nielsen at mnielsen@carolina. rr.com, or text or call 704-907-1234.

— Catholic News Herald

Conference on Appalachia to focus on affordable housing FRANKLIN — The ninth Bishop Begley Conference on Appalachia will be held Saturday, Nov. 2. Themed “Working for Safe and Affordable Housing in Far Western North Carolina,” the conference will focus on affordable housing in the far western counties of North Carolina – its causes and its effects on vulnerable populations, and efforts being made to address this concern. Come to learn, celebrate and pray. Go to www.ccdoc.org/ education for event information and registration details. Questions? E-mail ccdocsca@ charlottediocese.org.

St. Matthew Catholic Church

10th Annual Divine Mercy Day of Healing

The Joy of Mercy October 19, 2019 9 am to 3 pm

Lennie Cox, St. Matthew parishioner, will speak on The

Joy of Granting Divine Mercy.

Lennie facilitates several SMU adult faith formation classes.

Deacon Gary Schrieber of St. Matthew parish, will speak on Joy of Jesus’ Promises. Deacon Gary is spiritual director of the Cenacles of the Divine Mercy.

Registration Fee: $35 per person; $25 Seniors/Students Registration by credit card at stmatthewcatholic.org/divinemercy or by check to the St. Matthew Church Office 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy.

Charlotte, NC 28277 (704) 543-7677

Keynote Speaker: Sister Caterina Esselen Sister of Our Lady of Mercy (St. Faustina’s Order) First Talk: The Joy of Mercy: Trust in Jesus Second Talk: The Joy of Forgiveness

FACEBOOK.COM/ CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD ESPAÑOL

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September 27, 2019 | catholicnewsherald.com

Mariella Buscaglia (Izquierda) Joel Alonso del Río, instructor de SEPI, invita a cantar a los jóvenes participantes del sexto retiro ‘Hacer lío’ que organizó el Vicariato de Gastonia.

(Abajo) Poco más de ochenta alegres y entusiastas jóvenes llegaron hasta el hermoso campamento Thunderbird del YMCA donde se llevó a cabo el retiro.

Octubre: Mes Morado

E

n 1650, un negro esclavo angoleño pintó en el barrio de Pachacamilla, en Lima, capital de Perú, una imagen del Señor crucificado sobre una pared de adobe.

Esta imagen permitió a los más pobres contar con un derecho a la religión que sus amos practicaban, a la que ellos, por su condición, no les era permitida.

La devoción fue creciendo muy rápidamente. De todas partes llegaban los fines de semana para rezar, cantar y bailar para el Señor hasta altas horas de la noche.

Preocupado, el virrey, que pensaba que se preparaba un motín, mandó destruir la débil pared que ni la lluvia y humedad habían logrado deteriorar.

Pero, en las tres ocasiones que se intentó derrumbar la pared, albañiles y soldados cayeron al piso rogando perdón por sus actos.

Un representante del virrey, con un deforme tumor en el rostro, fue sanado milagrosamente al ver la imagen y, en agradecimiento, mandó edificar una ermita para protegerla.

La devoción creció y el culto fue oficializado por la Iglesia Católica, que realizó la primera Misa en la ermita en septiembre de 1671.

Dos fuertes terremotos que casi destruyeron la ciudad de Lima no lograron afectar la sagrada imagen. Grupos de devotos donaron un terreno, materiales y trabajo, logrando construir la Iglesia de las Nazarenas, en cuyo altar mayor se encuentra el muro original donde fue pintado el Señor de los Milagros, al que también se le llama Cristo de Pachacamilla, Cristo Morado, Negrito Lindo, Señor de los temblores y Señor de los emigrantes.

Con el paso de los años, gracias a los peruanos migrantes, la devoción ha ido creciendo en muchos lugares del mundo, alcanzando inclusive al Vaticano, donde anualmente se realiza un recorrido en la Plaza San Pedro.

En la Diócesis de Charlotte, hace poco más de diez años, unos hermanos trajeron desde Lima la imagen e iniciaron la procesión del mes de octubre.

En Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, donde otro grupo de hermanos trajo otra imagen, se le dio un lugar privilegiado para que esté disponible a los visitantes durante todo el año.

La Iglesia San Marcos, que cuenta con una hermandad fundada hace 10 años, celebra una Misa solemne el 28 de octubre. Esta parroquia ha tenido la bendición de acoger la multitudinaria procesión los dos últimos años. Este 2019 se realizará el 27 de octubre en la parroquia San Gabriel.

La manifestación de religiosidad popular cuenta cada día con más devotos que se integran a la hermandad vistiendo hermosos hábitos morados, aceptando las condiciones de su filiación, fomentando la devoción y celebrando su mes festivo con penitencias en agradecimiento por su amor y protección o en busca de un milagro.

Los invitamos a participar el domingo 13 de octubre, a las dos de la tarde, a la Misa y procesión en Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe; el domingo 27 de octubre, a las 6:30 p.m., a la Misa y procesión en San Gabriel; y el lunes 28 de octubre, a las 7 p.m., a la Misa solemne en San Marcos.

MARIELLA BUSCAGLIA es miembro de la Parroquia San Marcos en Huntersville.

CÉSAR HURTADO | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Jóvenes del Vicariato de Gastonia ‘hicieron lío’ CÉSAR HURTADO REPORTERO HISPANO

LAKE WYLIE — Ivonne Segura, una de las coordinadoras de la Pastoral Juvenil de la Vicaría de Gastonia, encabezó un grupo de más de 80 jóvenes y 50 servidores que participaron del Retiro ‘Hacer Lío’, una iniciativa que tomó forma hace seis años haciendo eco de las palabras del Papa Francisco que invitó a los jóvenes católicos a ‘hacer lío’, es decir a hacer sentir su presencia en la Iglesia.

El retiro, que se realizó del viernes 20 al domingo 22 de septiembre en las instalaciones del campamento Thunderbird y estuvo dirigido a jóvenes entre 14 a 17 años, tuvo como tema la santidad. Por ello, cada grupo adoptó el nombre de un santo que tuvo un impacto profundo en la vida de los jóvenes.

Organizado por el Vicariato de Gastonia, recibió participantes de parroquias de Lincolnton, Shelby, Gastonia, Forest City y Belmont, además de delegados de Spartanburg, Carolina del Sur e invitados de la parroquia Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe de Charlotte.

Segura destacó que ya se vienen observando resultados de los pasados encuentros y la respuesta positiva de los jóvenes.

“Muchos de ellos se involucran en la pastoral juvenil donde se trabaja en su crecimiento espiritual, personal y misionero”, mientras que otros “empiezan desde casa a resolver problemas y efectuar mejoras en sus relaciones familiares”.

Como ejemplo, señaló el caso particular de Sebastián Álvarez, un joven que participó del segundo retiro y que hoy en día cursa estudios en el Seminario Universitario San José.

Para Joel Alonso del Río, profesor del Instituto Pastoral del Sureste (SEPI), charlista del retiro, ‘Hacer Lío’ es “una experiencia interesante que puede ser una referencia para todo el país”.

“Estoy aquí apoyando, acompañando y formando a todos estos jóvenes que, como dice el Papa, no son el futuro sino

el presente de la Iglesia”, dijo.

“Debemos transmitir la fe en un Jesucristo joven al que le encantaba estar entre amigos, en familia, en ambiente festivo. A veces se les dice a los jóvenes que la fiesta es mala, ser cristiano es otra cosa, más seria, más callado. No es así, el cristiano es la alegría, es la fiesta, es el nuevo vino de las Bodas de Caná.

Y eso es lo que estamos compartiendo aquí”.

Luego subrayó la necesidad de contar con líderes jóvenes, “preparar una nueva generación que sea la abanderada, que vaya adelante, que le hable a esta generación, con nuestro apoyo desde atrás”.

Los organizadores agradecieron el apoyo de los padres de familia, donantes y voluntarios que participaron en esta edición.

Quienes deseen más información sobre el programa pueden visitar la Iglesia San Miguel de Gastonia y conversar con el Padre José Juya o contactar a la coordinadora Ivonne Segura al 704-530-3011.

El Rap juvenil de la Bendición Este es rap de la bendición, bendice Señor la alimentación.

Bendice el pan, bendice el vino, bendice las manos que lo han producido.

Extiendo el brazo, encojo el codo, y con esto queda bendecido todo.

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catholicnewsherald.com | September 27, 2019 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Virgen de Coromoto reunió a venezolanos CÉSAR HURTADO REPORTERO HISPANO

CHARLOTTE — El pasado domingo 15 de septiembre, un numeroso grupo de residentes de origen venezolano se hizo presente en la Iglesia San Gabriel de Charlotte para celebrar la fiesta de la patrona de Venezuela, la Virgen de Coromoto.

Así, respondieron a la convocatoria de la asociación Venezolanos in the Carolinas que planeó el homenaje a la advocación en una Misa de acción de gracias que se llevó a cabo durante la Misa en español que programa esa parroquia regularmente cada domingo a las 6:30 de la tarde.

El celebrante, Padre Fidel Melo, destacó la devoción a Nuestra Madre en el nombre de la Virgen de Coromoto, especialmente en estos tiempos en que los ciudadanos de Venezuela atraviesan momentos de dificultad.

Al término de la homilía, Cecilia Arreaza, venezolana radicada en Charlotte, fue la encargada de dar una reseña histórica de la devoción.

Elvia Gordils, representante de la asociación organizadora, pidió una mayor solidaridad a los venezolanos residentes del área e informó que próximamente, en la misma iglesia, se realizará una colecta de alimentos no perecederos y medicinas básicas “que tanto necesitan los venezolanos oprimidos por un grupo criminal” que se ha enquistado en el poder en Venezuela.

Respecto al apoyo de la HR3744, una propuesta de TPS para Venezuela aprobada por la Casa de Representantes, dijo

de los conversos,

que espera que el Congreso la apruebe prontamente. “Por eso hemos estado recogiendo firmas al término de la Misa”, señaló, con el propósito de enviarlas en búsqueda de apoyo de los congresistas.

HISTORIA

Desde mediados del siglo XVII los religiosos capuchinos empezaron la evangelización de la comarca de Guanare. En una de las tribus indígenas evangelizadas se originó el culto a Nuestra Señora de Coromoto. Según cuenta la tradición, cuando se disponían los indios Cospes a ser bautizados, el Cacique Coromoto se negaba rotundamente a participar.

En septiembre de 1651, el cacique se encontró con un vecino de la villa del Espíritu Santo, llamado Juan Sánchez y durante la conversación el indio le contó que una Señora muy hermosa se le había aparecido en una quebrada y le había dicho que recibiera el agua del Bautismo.

Juan Sánchez le exhortó a seguir las indicaciones de la aparición y prosiguió su ruta.

Al mismo tiempo algunos niños, hijos

DIOCESE OF CHARLOTTE EDUCATION VICARIATE

Catechetical Conference Stay with us, lord. Luke 24:29

El Padre Fidel Melo, director del Ministerio Hispano de la Diócesis de Charlotte, acoge la celebración de las advocaciones marianas latinoamericanas en la parroquia San Gabriel.

FOTO CORTESÍA PARROQUIA SAN GABRIEL

confesaron que una Señora muy bella se les aparecía cuando iban a recoger agua. Esto hizo que los indios miraran con respeto aquel lugar y que utilizaran el agua que allí manaba para curar a sus enfermos. Sin embargo pasó un año y el cacique no daba muestras de querer convertirse a la fe cristiana. El 8 de septiembre de 1652, la Virgen se le apareció al cacique, en la misma puerta de su choza y según se cuenta éste la amenazó con su arco pero la Virgen le cegó con sus resplandores y desapareció, dejando en sus manos una pequeña imagen suya. Luego de esto el cacique se convirtió y se bautizó.

Juan Sánchez al tener noticia del suceso, mandó recoger la imagen y desde entonces se la comenzó a venerar bajo el título de Nuestra Señora de Coromoto.

El 7 de octubre de 1944, el Papa Pío XII la declaró “Patrona de la República de Venezuela” y su coronación canónica se celebró tres siglos después de la aparición, en 1952.

Catholic Pilgrimages for 2020 from Global Catholic Tours of VA

Sherry Wedell Keynote

Scott Sollom

Lucas Pollice

P. Enrique Gonzales

11 Days Poland and Prague September 7-17, 2020

P. Jorge Yoban Gutiérrez

Keynote

Paul Kotlowski

Brenda Cerkez

Fr. Matthew Kauth

Bethany Fischer

Saturday

Benton Convention Center

November 02, 2019 8AM - 4PM

Registrations will take place from 8:00am 9:00am. Mass begins at 9:00am.

301 W 5th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

2 nights Warsaw, 1 night Czestrochowa, 3 nights each in Krakow and Prague. With Fr Dan Pisano from Wellsburg, WV. 11 Days Catholic Ireland September 7-17, 2020 3 nights Galway, 1 night Limerick, 2 nights Killarney, 3 night Dublin. With Fr. Eric Shafer from Colonial Beach, VA.

$35/Person (includes registration & lunch)

All are invited to attend!

Join catechists, teachers, parents, and priests for an all-day conference that will feature prominent Catholic speakers. The cost of the day includes registration, lunch, and refreshments.

Publishers, vendors, and additional amenities will be available throughout the conference. We hope you join us for this day!

Contact Kay Jordan for more information: kayj@charlottediocese.org

Register online: charlottediocese.org/ev/conference

13 Days Fatima and Spain September 28-October 10, 2020 3 nights Fatima, 2 night Santiago de Compostela, 1 night Burgos, 1 night Salamanca, 1 night Avila, 3 night Madid. With Fr Bjorn Lundberg from Winchester, VA.

Prices due soon.

For brochures or more information, contact John Tagnesi 1-888-544-4461 or jtag1964@ verizon.net

Misioneros de los pobres solicitan ayuda Reconstruirán albergue afectado por incendio en Jamaica CÉSAR HURTADO REPORTERO HISPANO

La Casa del Buen Pastor, un albergue para los más abandonados con problemas físicos y mentales sostenido por los Misioneros de los pobres en Kingston, Jamaica, sufrió un incendio que consumió parcialmente sus instalaciones.

El siniestro, ocurrido en la madrugada del 28 de agosto pasado, destruyó por completo una sección de cocina, la capilla, el refectorio, los almacenes y dormitorios del hogar que acogía a más de setenta residentes rechazados por la sociedad.

Al parecer, el fuego se originó en una casa vecina y luego se extendió hasta el edificio de beneficencia y otros inmuebles.

Afortunadamente, los hermanos a cargo, vecinos y bomberos pudieron rescatar a la totalidad de los indigentes y desamparados que clamaban por auxilio.

Pow Pow, uno de los residentes que recibió atención médica en el Hospital Público de Kingston, sufrió quemaduras graves en la cabeza y el lado derecho del cuerpo.

Los hermanos trasladaron a los afectados hasta otro de sus centros que, lamentablemente, se encuentra al máximo de su capacidad, por lo que han sido instalados de manera provisional en el comedor de ese centro.

El Padre Richard Ho Lung, fundador y director de los Misioneros de los Pobres, dijo a The Jamaica Gleaner, un medio de noticias local, que instalaron colchones para los damnificados que “aún están aterrorizados”.

“Somos la única familia que tienen”, señaló el P. Ho Lung, por lo que espera que “con las oraciones de todos juntos” lograrán una pronta reconstrucción del lugar.

Además, aseguró que no abandonarán a los residentes, quienes permanecerán “aunque sea un poco apretados”.

“Vamos a quedarnos aquí, con ellos.

No los vamos a dejar”, sentenció.

La delegación local de los Misioneros de los Pobres, que mantiene una casa en Monroe, Carolina del Norte, apela a la buena voluntad de los amigos de esta noble institución para que ofrezcan su colaboración en la reconstrucción de la casa afectada en Jamaica.

Quienes deseen colaborar pueden dirigirse a Missionaries of the Poor, Guardian Angels Monastery, 1403 Griffith Road, Monroe, NC 28112.

También pueden llamar a los teléfonos 704-635-8831 y 704-999-6354, o escribir a mopmonroenc@missionariesofthepoor. org.

Para conocer más de la obra de los Misioneros de los Pobres, visite www. missionariesofthepoor.org.

September 27, 2019 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

Lecturas Diarias SEPT. 29-OCT. 5

Domingo: Amós 6:1, 4-7, 1 Timoteo 6:11-16, Lucas 16:19-31; Lunes (San Jerónimo): Zacarías 8:1-8, Lucas 9:4650; Martes (Sta. Teresa del Niño Jesús): Zacarías 8:20-23, Lucas 9:5156; Miércoles (Los Santos Ángeles Guardianes): Nehemías: 2:1-8, Mateo 18:1-5, 10; Jueves: Nehemías 8:1-12, Lucas 10:1-12; Viernes (San Francisco de Asís): Baruc 1:15-22, Lucas 10:1316; Sábado (Beato Francisco Javier Seelos): Baruc 4:5-12, 27-29, Lucas 10:17-24

OCT. 6-12

Domingo: Habacuc 1:2-3, 2:2-4, 2 Timoteo 1:6-8, 13-14, Lucas 17:5-10; Lunes (Nuestra Señora del Rosario): Jonás 1:1-2:3-5, 8, Lucas 10:25-37; Martes: Jonás 3:1-10, Lucas 10:38-42; Miércoles (San Denis y compañeros, San Juan Leonardi): Jonás 4:1-11, Lucas 11:1-4; Jueves: Malaquías 3:13-20, Lucas 11:5-13; Viernes (San Juan XXIII): Joel 1:13-15, 2:1-2, Lucas 11:15-26; Sábado: Joel 4:12-21, Lucas 11:27-28

OCT. 13-19

Domingo: 2 Reyes 5:14-17, 2 Timoteo 2:8-13, Lucas 17:11-19; Lunes (San Calixto I): Romanos 1:1-7, Lucas 11:2932; Martes (Sta. Teresa de Jesús): Romanos 1:16-25, Lucas 11:37-41; Miércoles (San Gerardo Majella y Sta. Margarita de Alacoque): Romanos 2:1-11, Lucas 11:42-46; Jueves (San Ignacio de Antioquia): Romanos 3:21-30, Lucas 11:47-54; Viernes (San Lucas): 2 Timoteo 4:10-17, Lucas 10:1-9; Sábado (San Isaac Jogues S.J. y Compañeros Mártires): Romanos 4:13, 16-18, Lucas 12:8-12

9

Miguel, Gabriel y Rafael: los tres arcángeles CONDENSADO DE ACIPRENSA

El 29 de septiembre se celebra a los Santos Arcángeles Miguel, Rafael y Gabriel, los que aparecen en la Biblia con misiones importantes de Dios.

Miguel en hebreo significa ‘¿quién como Dios?’, grito de guerra cuando Lucifer se opuso a los planes de salvación amorosa del Creador.

San Miguel es mencionado en el libro de Daniel como ‘uno de los principales príncipes’ en la jerarquía celestial.

Rafael quiere decir ‘Dios sana’. El único libro sagrado que lo menciona es el de Tobías. San Rafael le indicó a Tobías cómo devolverle la vista a su padre. Por esta razón es invocado para alejar enfermedades y terminar felizmente los viajes.

Gabriel significa ‘Fortaleza de Dios’.

San Gabriel Arcángel aparece en el libro de Daniel. En Lucas se lo menciona anunciando a Zacarías el nacimiento de San Juan Bautista y a María que concebiría y daría a luz a Jesús.

San Gabriel Arcángel, el ‘ángel mensajero’, representado con una vara de perfumada azucena, es patrono de las comunicaciones y de los periodistas porque trajo al mundo la más bella noticia con la Anunciación.

El Papa Francisco, en una Misa celebrada el 29 de septiembre de 2017 en Roma, dijo que los ángeles y los fieles “cooperamos conjuntamente al diseño de salvación de Dios”. “Somos –por así decir– ‘hermanos’ en la vocación. Y van delante del Señor para servirlo, para alabarlo y también para contemplar la gloria del rostro del Señor”, añadió.

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ALL INVITED TO / TODOS INVITADOS A

St. Gabriel Church’s

TASTE OF LATIN AMERICA

DIOCESE OF CHARLOTTE EDUCATION VICARIATE

Conferencia Catequetica Diocesa na Quédate con nosotros, Señor. Lucas 24:29

LA GRAN FIESTA Saturday, OCTOBER 12

Sherry Wedell Keynote

P. Jorge Yoban Gutiérrez

Keynote

6:00 to 10:00 pm Parish Center Hall Cafeteria de la escuela

Free admission Food available for purchase Music and folkloric dances Raffles Entrada GRATIS Venta de comidas típicas Música y bailes folklóricos Entretenimiento p/niños Rifas: 50” UHD TV 4K Bluetooth Speaker Cena Mezzanotte (2)

Scott Sollom

Lucas Pollice

P. Enrique Gonzales

sabado 2 de Noviembre, 2019

8AM - 4PM

Paul Kotlowski

Brenda Cerkez

Fr. Matthew Kauth

Bethany Fischer

Benton Convention Center 301 W 5th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101 Registración: $35/persona Costos incluyen registración, almuerzo y refrigerios.

¡Todos están invitados a asistir!

Unase a catequistas, maestros, padres y sacerdotes para una conferencia de todo un día que presentara prominentes oradores católicos. El costo del día incluye registración, almuerzo y refrigerios. Publicistas, vendedores y servicios adicionales estarán disponibles a lo largo de la conferencia.

Para más información contacte a Kay Jordan: kayj@charlottediocese.org

A BENEFICIO DEL MINISTERIO HISPANO

¡TE ESPERAMOS EN LA GRAN FIESTA!

Registración en línea: charlottediocese.org/ev/conference

10

iiiSeptember 27, 2019 | catholicnewsherald.com

FROM TH

Celebrate Respect Life Month Respect Life Conference to be held Oct. 5 All are welcome to attend the Respect Life Conference on Oct. 5. The event is free but registration is required.

Go online to register at ccdoc.org/respectlife.

Questions? Contact Jessica Grabowski at jrgrabowski@ charlottediocese.org.

— SueAnn Howell, senior reporter. USCCB contributed.

CHARLOTTE — Catholics in the Diocese of Charlotte will join millions of others around the United States in celebrating the month of October as Respect Life Month. This year’s theme is “Christ Our Hope: In Every Season of Life.”

Respect Life Month is sponsored by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Office of Pro-Life Activities, and includes observing the first Sunday of October as Respect Life Sunday.

As Catholics, we are called to cherish, defend and protect those who are most vulnerable, from the beginning of life to its end, and at every point in between. During the month of October, the Church asks us to reflect more deeply on the dignity of every human life.

“The theme this year ‘Christ Our Hope: In Every Season of Life’ reminds us not only of our duty to be followers of Christ in all that we do but specifically to follow Christ and be the voice for those who are vulnerable in every season of their lives from conception until natural death,” says Jessica Grabowski, Respect Life program director for the Diocese of Charlotte.

A Respect Life Conference will be held Saturday, Oct. 5, at St. Vincent de Paul Church in Charlotte. The keynote speaker will be Dr. Paul Scherz, a theologian at The Catholic University of America who focuses on bioethics.

The day will also include sessions on poor prenatal diagnosis, dignity at the beginning of life, end-of-life issues, chemical abortions and abortion pill reversal, ground-breaking abortion research, and an opportunity to network with local pro-life ministries and organizations.

The day begins with a Mass at 9 a.m. and includes breakfast refreshments and lunch.

“The Respect Life Conference is a unique event to the diocese of Charlotte and is a wonderful way to learn more about pro-life work and stay ahead of the game in the fight for life,” Grabowski notes. “It is also encouraging to spend a day of prayer and learning with so many other pro-life advocates and network with pro-life groups and organizations from around the diocese.”

HE COVER

September 27, 2019 | catholicnewsherald.comiii

Join hands and pray for life Faithful across the Diocese of Charlotte are encouraged to gather on Sunday, Oct. 6, to kick off Respect Life Month and form “Life Chains” as a public witness for the dignity of all human life, from conception to natural death.

Life Chains are being organized in the following communities, either on Oct. 6 or another date as noted:

ARDEN Hendersonville Road (U.S. 25) between Hillcrest Road and Alliance Page Road, 12:30-1:30 p.m.; Joanne Gregory, 828-329-9787

BELMONT Belmont-Mt. Holly Road from Woodlawn Avenue to Central Avenue, 2-3 p.m.; Rolando Rivas, 704-898-3084 Main Street at Central Avenue, 1:30-3 p.m.; Tom Carey, 904-728-4300

BOONE Hwy. 321 at Hwy. 105, 2-3 p.m.; Kathy Camilleri, 828-238-5292

BREVARD Corner of Broad and Main streets (along the courthouse side of the street), 2-3 p.m.; Janice Castevens, 828-273-0275

BRYSON CITY At the corner of Everett and Main streets, 2-3 p.m.; Elizabeth Kelly, 828-488-5461

DENVER 537 N.C. 16 Business at Holy Spirit Church, 12:30-1:30 p.m.; Jeff DiCosmo, 704-489-9756

FOREST CITY West Main Street near Hudlow Road, 2-2:30 p.m.; Dennis Puntel, 937-478-9282

GASTONIA

PHOTO PROVIDED BY AMY BURGER

Hundreds of Catholics across the Diocese of Charlotte took to the streets for Respect Life Sunday Oct. 7, 2018, to publicly stand up for life.

KERNERSVILLE

SHELBY

600 Main St. at Cherry Street, 12:30-1:30 p.m.; Zachary LeGrand, 706-495-2708

At the corner of Gidney and Dekalb streets, 2:30-3:30 p.m.; Ingeborg Collins, ICollins@Carolina.rr.com

LENOIR U.S. Hwy. 18 at US Hwy. 321, 2-3 p.m.; Tarah Tugman, 828-229-7917

STANLEY U.S. Hwy. 37 at E. Parkwood Street, 2-3 p.m.; Linda Mooney, 704-589-3930

Garrison Boulevard from Union Road to New Hope Road, 2-3 p.m.; Linda Mooney, 704-5893930

MINT HILL

GREENSBORO

MOORESVILLE

Battleground Avenue, 2:30-3:30 p.m.; Mark and Kim Shelley, 336-312-4810 or 336-312-7287

Hwy. 150 at Williamson Road, 1:30-3:30 p.m.; Angela Harrigan, 704-975-1239

HENDERSONVILLE

MORGANTON

Randolph Street at Hwy. 62 (at Southgate Shopping Center), 2:30-3:30 p.m.; Yvonne Ford, 336-301-9891

U.S. 25 (Asheville Hwy.) at Patton Park (Clairmont Drive), 2-3 p.m.; Sharon Asbury, 828697-6188

Burkemont Avenue at Fleming Drive, 2-3 p.m.; Darrin Stilwell, 828-413-2954

WAXHAW

HICKORY

MOUNT HOLLY

Designated areas along Routes 16 and 75, 2:153:30 p.m.; Peggy Dvorak, 704-843-3495

Main Street at Catawba Avenue, 2-3 p.m.; Sue Pruett, 704-965-5260

WAYNESVILLE/HAYWOOD COUNTY

US Hwy. 70 at 17th Street S.E., 2:30-3:30 p.m.; Richard “Rick” Timmons, 828-781-4887

HUNTERSVILLE Stumptown at Ranson Road, 2-3 p.m.; Michael FitzGerald, 704-992-1702

KANNAPOLIS Cannon Boulevard (Hwy. 29) at First Street (near the overpass), 2-3 p.m.; Timothy Brennan, 704-938-7393

Pro-life sidewalk counseling training available CHARLOTTE — Sidewalk Advocates for Life, is a nationwide group founded in 2014 to promote peaceful and prayerful witness in front of abortion facilities, has launched a new chapter in Charlotte and is hosting a training class Sept.

28 for anyone interested in praying in front of Charlotte’s abortion facilities.

Mecklenburg County is the state’s abortion capital – there were 9,912 abortions in Charlotte in 2017, more than anywhere else in the state.

The new Charlotte chapter is being led by Father Peter Ascik of St. Matthew Church in Charlotte and St. Matthew parishioners. The goal is to build up fulltime Catholic coverage of people praying and counseling at the local abortion facilities – starting with the Hebron Road abortion facility.

A sidewalk counseling training seminar will be held from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, at St. Matthew Church’s banquet room. Come learn how to save lives with a peaceful, prayerful method of reaching out to women and men entering an abortion facility.

Lunch will be provided. A $15 cash donation is requested to cover the cost of training materials and program literature. St. Matthew Church is located at 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy. For questions or to register, e-mail Father Ascik at prolifesignup@gmail.com.

Catholic Health Professionals of Charlotte group forms

CHARLOTTE 8015 Ballantyne Commons Parkway at Rea Road, 2-3:30 p.m.; Liliana Salas, 704-293-5001 East Boulevard at Scott Avenue (park at St. Patrick School), 2-3 p.m.; Tina Witt, 704-301-2531 Pineville-Matthews Road (Hwy. 51) at Rea Road, 2-4 p.m.; Deborah Ware, 704-650-6095 Hillside Avenue at Park Road, 2-3 p.m.; Mary Richardson, 704-523-4641 Park Road at Old Reid Road (outside St. Vincent de Paul Church), 12:45-1:45; Susan Collis, SusanCollis@yahoo.com Providence Road at Sharon Lane in front of St. Gabriel Church, 2-3 p.m.; James Lashua, 704366-4362

11

13700 Lawyers Road at I-485, 12:30-1:30 p.m.; Robert Hayes, 386-478-9137 or 704-545-1224

MURPHY Peachtree Street (in front of the courthouse), 2-3 p.m.; Deacon Carl Hubbell, 828-837-4830

SALISBURY Main at Innes Street (at the Square), 2-3 p.m.; Barbara Franklin, 704-223-1973

STATESVILLE Glenway Drive at Crossroads, 2:30-3:30 p.m.; Geraldine Houston, 704-657-9197

THOMASVILLE

Walnut Street at Russian Avenue, 2-3 p.m. (meet at 1:45 p.m. at former store lot); Cynthia Hall, 828-400-2922

WINSTON-SALEM Hanes Mall Boulevard west of Stratford Road, 2-3:30 p.m.; Samantha Hogan, 336-865-9842 For details about these and other Life Chain events, go online to www.lifechain. net.

Catholic Health Professionals of Charlotte is a new organization to support Catholic health professionals and to uphold the Catholic faith in the field of science and medicine. It’s open to Catholic physicians, nurses, nurse practitioners, PAs, dentists, medical students and other health professionals in Charlotte and throughout western North Carolina.

The mission is to provide Catholic health professionals with an opportunity to network both socially and professionally, as well as to grow in their Catholic faith. The patron is St. Gianna Molla, wife, mother and doctor.

The group plans various activities throughout the year including: seminars/ educational events on Catholic faith or medicine; spiritual events including Masses, reflections and retreats; and social and professional networking opportunities.

The Catholic Health Professionals of Charlotte event will be held Friday, Oct. 4, at St. Vincent de Paul Church with an evening of prayer, fellowship and a presentation by Dr. Paul Scherz of The Catholic University of America on “Bioethics: Emerging Technologies and the Catholic Faith.”

The Oct. 4 event begins at 6 p.m. with Eucharistic Adoration in the chapel, followed by a happy hour at 6:30 p.m. in the parish hall. Dinner presentation begins at 7:15 p.m. and is $25 per person and $15 per student. The event is open to all Catholic healthcare workers and their spouses.

Register at catholichealth. eventbrite.com. For details, email catholichealthcharlotte@gmail.com.

— SueAnn Howell, senior reporter

Our schools 12

catholicnewsherald.com | September 27, 2019 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief CCHS announces President’s Volunteer Service Award winners CHARLOTTE — Charlotte Catholic High School announces that 127 students have been recognized by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation for their valuable volunteer contributions in the community. The students received their certificates at a recent All-School Mass.

The President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation was established in 2003 to recognize the valuable contributions volunteers make in our communities. By recognizing those who serve others, the council hopes to encourage more people to serve. The council created the President’s Volunteer Service Award program as a way to thank and honor Americans who, by their demonstrated commitment and example, inspire others to engage in volunteer service.

The President’s Volunteer Service Award recognizes individuals, families and groups who have served others in their communities for a specified number of hours over a 12-month period.

The Bronze Award is presented to students aged 16-18 and have performed 100-174 service hours. It also is presented to students aged

14-15 and have performed 50-74 service hours.

The 48 CCHS Bronze Award recipients are: Lily Alford, Christina Andrysick, Emily Ayers, Davis Barnett Blake Beecher, Blythe Bishop, Samuel Bohmer, Lucas Boyle, Joel Casingal, Nina Casingal, Ashleen Coyle, Anne Culicerto, William Davison, Alivia Dettinger, Serena Le Do, Madeline Dudley, Liam Fitzpatrick Jr., Victoria Fontana, Adam Franek, Anna Fuller, Becket Granelli, Anna Greeley, Daniel Harty, Tommy Hoefling, Karlie Kazmierczak, Grace Kunik, Audrey Leach, Mae Levin, Emma Lowry, Amanda McKernan, Garrett McKernan, Will Murlless, Ryan Nofsinger, John Nowak, Alexandra Pallander, Shiya Patel, John Polking, Joseph Pons, Carson Robbe, Anna Schroeder, Ethan Scott, Juli Snoke, Parrish Srnovrsnik, Blaise Tamol, Elvia Tshunza, Ramsey White IV, Austin Wright and Karla Zamorano.

The Silver Award is presented to students aged 16-18 and have performed 175-249 service hours. It also is presented to those aged 14-15 and have performed 75-99 hours. The 19 CCHS Silver Award recipients are: Harrison Barnett, John Coleman, John Curry, William Dettmer, Kate Dumser, Ethan Elaasar, Brynn Heslin, Michael Hussey, Liza Kammerer, Madison Kelley, Payton Morgan, Anna Mullin, Paul Neel, Melia Patcha, Carley Reitz, Julianne Ruiz, Catherine Schilli, Aidan Tibbitt and Abigail Tyson.

The Gold Award is presented to students aged 16-18 and have performed more than 250 service hours. It also is presented to those aged 14-15 and have volunteered more than 100 hours. The 60 CCHS Gold Award Recipients are: Isabella Ackermann, Chloe Allen, Christian Alston, Elizabeth Borkowski, Jackson Bowers, Emma Bryson, Molly Bunta, Carly Centanni, Natalie Charlonis, Julia Chaverin, Louis Ciano,

PHOTO PROVIDED BY JAMES SARKIS

Mass for homeschool families CHARLOTTE — Bishop Peter Jugis offered Mass Sept. 16 at St. Patrick Cathedral for Charlotte-area homeschool students and their families as they welcomed the start of a new school year.

Will Craig, Stewart Dautel, Rebecca Denton, Emma Doncaster, Anna Dougherty, Maura Egan, Anayensi Escobedo, Julianna Hancock, Christopher Hoefling, Emma Iles ,Emily Rae Kearney, Elizabeth Kelly, Scarlett Lovallo, Ryan Ma, Erin Macalintal, Wynne Mayeux, Laney McBride, Brynn McClatchy, Madison McLane, William McTier, Thomas Mooney, Michael Moritz, Oliver Nazarian, Emily Nguyen, Katrina Nilles, Maggie Olsen, Carissa Pallander, Samantha

Pean, Anna Pederson, Andrew Permenter, Arabella Pires, Isabel Plym, Caroline Prendiville, James Ramich III, Sophia Ritz, Carrie-Anne Rogers, Matthew Ruff, Morgan Salvino, MaryKathryn Samuelson, Emma Sciotta, Kristen Sedam, Nicole Shooman, Joseph Silvestri, Nicole Tamol, Jacqueline Tavares, Adam Tesch, Joseph Tully, Sabine Yessayan and Melissa Zeleznik.

— Carolyn Tillman

The lack of dignified or affordable housing often leads to the postponement of formal relationships. It should be kept in mind that the family has the right to decent housing, fitting for family life and commensurate to the number of the members, in a physical environment that provides the basic services for the life of the family and the community. Families and homes go together. (Pope Francis, 3/19/16).

The 9th Bishop Begley Conference on Appalachia Saturday, Nov. 2 from 9:30 to 3:30 PM, Franklin, NC

Working for Safe and Affordable Housing in Far Western North Carolina Please come and learn about the ways that various non-profits are working to provide safe and affordable housing in far western North Carolina. At this event, Catholic Charities Far West Growing Opportunities Grants Awards will be distributed and attendees will hear how grant funds will target affordable and safe housing concerns in far western NC.

Register by October 25 Go to www.ccdoc.org/education for event information and registration procedures.

Questions? Email ccdocsca@charlottediocese.org.

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Mix

September 27, 2019 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

For the latest movie reviews: catholicnewsherald.com

In theaters

‘Ad Astra’ Compelling sci-fi drama, set in the near future, in which an astronaut (Brad Pitt) goes on a quest to communicate with his father (Tommy Lee Jones), a pioneer space traveler who long ago disappeared during a mission to search for extraterrestrial life from the outer boundaries of the solar system. As he endures a variety of challenges, he broods on his emotional isolation and inability to maintain relationships while also pondering the conflicting evidence suggesting that his dad, long portrayed as a deceased hero, may not only be

13

alive but may, in fact, be a villain. Some gory violence, rough language.

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

Catholic Book Pick

On TV

‘The Peanut Butter Falcon’

‘Theology of Home: Finding the Eternal in the Everyday’ by Carrie Gress, Noelle Mering and Megan Schrieber

n Tuesday, Oct. 1, 1:30 p.m. (EWTN) “St. Francis: Mirror of Christ.” Father Apostoli looks at St. Francis as the bearer of Christ’s wounds. He talks about the love that St. Francis had towards Christ and how it led him to treat others.

Heartwarming drama, primarily set on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, in which a young man with Down syndrome (Zack Gottsagen) and no family to care for him escapes the retirement home where the state has warehoused him for lack of a more suitable facility and takes to the road. He crosses paths with a down-onhis-luck crab fisherman (Shia LaBeouf) who’s being pursued by two lowlife rivals.

Though his new companion is initially gruff, the two bond and the angler agrees to help the lad achieve his dream of meeting his idol, a professional wrestler. As the duo shares Tom and Huck-like adventures, a sympathetic caregiver from the oldage home (Dakota Johnson) is on their trail. Directors Tyler Nilson and Michael Schwartz handle their Southern Gothictinged story with a light and dexterous touch. The result is an aesthetically accomplished, implicitly pro-life movie that subtly but resolutely upholds the dignity of all. Mature themes, a few uses of profanity, pervasive crude language.

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

Other movies n ‘Downton Abbey’: CNS: A-III (adults); MPAA: PG n ‘Goldfinch’: CNS: A-III (adults); MPAA: R

Written by three wives and mothers, “Theology of Home” is a simple guide to help reorient all of us toward our true home in heaven, enabling us to think purposefully about how to make our own homes on earth better equipped to get all those living in them to the Father’s house.

Through profound words from the saints and other literary figures, in-depth commentary on the theological and spiritual underpinnings of our love for home, and more than 100 beautiful (and inspiring) photographs from homes around the country, “Theology of Home” offers readers a tour of both the home and the human heart.

This book will help you discover how beauty and order can bring the eternal to your everyday, and will help you create a path to heaven for those you love most dearly.

At www.tanbooks.com: Order your copy of “Theology of Home: Finding the Eternal in the Everyday.” Catholic News Herald readers enjoy 20 percent off their order – use the exclusive coupon code “CNH20.”

n Wednesday, Oct. 2, 1:30 p.m. (EWTN) “Letters of St. Thérèse: The Cross of Love.” Father Jacques Daley continues his study of the spiritual insights found in the letters of St. Thérèse of Lisieux with a look at what the saint shows us about how to love the Cross. n Wednesday, Oct. 2, 4 p.m. (EWTN) “Saints: Francis Knight of Assisi.” The life of St. Francis of Assisi from carefree youth to his conversion and radical embracement of poverty for the love of God. n Saturday, Oct. 5, 6:30 a.m. (EWTN) “Saints: Blessed Paul VI vs. Margaret Sanger.” As they continue their debate, Author of Humanae Vitae Blessed Pope Paul VI discovers what fuels Margaret Sanger’s hatred of Church teachings and why she truly founded Planned Parenthood. Part 2 of 2. n Tuesday, Oct. 8, 6 a.m. (EWTN) “St. Luke’s Gospel: The Ingenious Writing of St. Luke.” Scripture scholar Frances Hogan shares the unique qualifications of St. Luke, who as a companion of St Paul, drew thematic elements that made his account of the Gospel incomparable.

Our nation 14

catholicnewsherald.com | September 27, 2019 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD the decline in abortions appears to be related to declines in births and pregnancies overall.”

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

Indiana launches investigation after discovery of aborted fetal remains

In Brief Pro-life leaders say low abortion rate good news but not complete picture WASHINGTON, D.C. — The pro-life community is cheering a report released Sept. 18 that indicates the number and rate of abortions nationwide have fallen to their lowest levels since the Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade decision legalized abortion on demand in 1973. The numbers were provided by the Guttmacher Institute, which researches data on abortion.

For 2017, the last year for which full numbers were available, the institute recorded 862,000 abortions. That translates to 13.5 abortions per 1,000 women ages 15-44, a rate less than half of the 1990 count. For the previous two tallies, the numbers were 926,000 in 2014, and just over 1 million in 2011. Between 2011 and 2017, abortion rates increased in only five states and the District of Columbia. One of the largest drops was in Virginia, at more than 40 percent between 2011 and 2017. But there’s no single reason for the decline, including wider legal restrictions and the closing of clinics, the report stated. “Rather,

INDIANAPOLIS — The story of 2,246 aborted fetal remains found at the Illinois home of late abortion doctor Ulrich Klopfer continues to unfold, with the new focal point being on neighboring Indiana, where Klopfer had once operated three abortion clinics. From medical records found in close proximity to the remains, “we’ve been able to ascertain that (they) are pertaining to a period of time from 2000 to 2002,” said Indiana Attorney General Curtis Hill at a news conference at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis Sept. 20. Those records also identified that “all 2,246 fetal remains do come from the state of Indiana,” he added. Klopfer, whom Hill referred to as “one of the most notorious abortionists in the history of Indiana,” formerly ran abortion centers in the northern Indiana cities of Fort Wayne, South Bend and Gary. The buildings were abandoned after his medical license was suspended indefinitely in 2016 “as a result of a whole host of violations, including record-keeping,” Hill said. The three buildings were searched by police Sept. 19. No additional fetal remains were discovered. But what was found were “thousands of abandoned medical records,” he said.

Maine voters won’t get chance to veto suicide, abortion laws PORTLAND, Maine — Bishop Robert P. Deeley of Portland said he was “saddened to learn” that physician-assisted suicide and taxpayer-funded abortions will not face a statewide vote “despite the great opposition” to both laws. Maine is one of 23 states that provides citizens with a process for veto referendums on state laws. Opponents of the law allowing assisted suicide and another requiring Medicaid and private insurers to cover abortions did not collect the required 63,067 valid signatures for each petition by a Sept. 18 deadline.

“Physician-assisted suicide, which failed in a statewide vote in 2000, desensitizes our young people and society at large to the inherent value of human life at a time when suicide rates are the highest that they have been since World War II,” Bishop Deeley said. “Suicide should never be presented as an option, but only recognized for what it truly is, a tragedy,” he said in a statement issued Sept. 18. “In addition, every Maine taxpayer

Anxiety / Depression Acid Reflux / Sleep Hormones / Allergies Cholesterol / Fatigue

will now be forced to fund abortions, coercing people to act against their moral beliefs and ethical principles,” he said. “Understandably, outrage has grown since citizens have learned the true nature of this law. Abortion is not health care, and this law deprives families and individuals of the simple right to respect the dignity of human life,” Bishop Deeley said.

Jenky: Real Presence not ‘opinion,’ but ‘foundational’ PEORIA, Ill. — Acknowledging evidence that “for several generations” the Church has not sufficiently taught its core truths, Bishop Daniel R. Jenky has called for all ministries of the Diocese of Peoria to be “intentionally centered” on the Real Presence in the holy Eucharist. The bishop’s 2,100-word teaching document, titled “The Real Presence,” was released Sept. 16, six weeks after the publication of a Pew Research Center survey showing that a majority of Catholics in the United States do not believe that the bread and wine used at Mass become the Body and Blood of Christ. “This failure in faith and conviction has happened despite the fact that the received teaching goes back to apostolic times and has always been held as foundational to our Catholic identity,” wrote Bishop Jenky. “So as your bishop, I believe it is a grave personal obligation for me to try to state as clearly as I am able some basic truths about the Blessed Sacrament.” Bishop Jenky outlined “persistent evidence” of the Real Presence found in Scripture, the Catechism of the Catholic Church and the witness of the saints. “It is a defined dogma of the Catholic Church, revealed by the Holy Spirit and preserved from any possibility of error, that the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus Christ are truly and substantially present in the Most Holy Eucharist,” he wrote. “This is not an opinion to be measured against any opinion poll, but rather divine revelation as expressed by the absolute authority of Scripture and tradition.”

commend the Church for establishing a program that helps those people who don’t want to write a book, don’t want to be in a public trial, don’t want to take a public deposition but do want to be compensated for the pain that they endured,” said former California Gov. Gray Davis. Davis, along with former CIA director and Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta and former Small Business Administration head Maria ContrerasSweet, will oversee the program’s handling of abuse claims submitted between now and March 2020, when the window for submitting claims closes. The idea behind the California program is not new. The program’s administrators, nationally known mediators Kenneth Feinberg and Camille Biros, currently run similar programs in New York, New Jersey, Colorado and Pennsylvania.

U.S. delegation brings V Encuentro results to pope VATICAN CITY — A delegation of U.S. bishops and laypeople came to Rome to share with Pope Francis and Vatican officials the joyful experiences and valuable recommendations that came out of last year’s Fifth National Encuentro. Archbishop Jose H. Gomez of Los Angeles, vice president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, said he was looking forward to announcing “the good news” about what they’ve learned and how the process has been unfolding.

“When we talked to the Holy Father” as they were still preparing for the September 2018 event, the archbishop said forming and inspiring missionary disciples across the nation “was our dream, and now we can share with him that it is happening.” Archbishop Gomez along with Bishop Nelson J. Perez of Cleveland, chairman of the USCCB committee on cultural diversity in the Church, and Auxiliary Bishop Arturo Cepeda of Detroit, chairman of the subcommittee on Hispanic affairs, led a delegation to the Vatican Sept. 13-18. They were presenting the “Proceedings and Conclusions of the Fifth National Encuentro of Hispanic/Latino Ministry.”

Leaders hope compensation plan USCCB leaders: Admitting fewer brings healing, hope to survivors refugees ‘runs counter’ to values LOS ANGELES — A new private independent program set up to compensate victim-survivors of child sexual abuse by priests was rolled out Sept. 16 in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and five other participating Catholic dioceses in California. At a news conference in Los Angeles, three lay Catholics with extensive experience in government leadership praised the new program’s commitment to victims’ healing and its independence from Church control. “I

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A proposal to reduce the number of refugee admissions to the United States to fewer than 30,000 “would be wholly counter to our values as a nation of immigrants,” said the president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and the chair of the bishops’ Committee on Migration. “America welcomes refugees; that is who we are, that is what we do.

IN BRIEF, SEE PAGE 15

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IN BRIEF FROM PAGE 14

Such reductions would undermine America’s leadership role as a global champion and protector of religious freedom and human rights,” they said in a joint statement Sept. 13. Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo of Galveston-Houston, USCCB president, and Bishop Joe S. Vasquez of Austin, Texas, the committee chairman, were responding to reports that administration officials will recommend to President Donald Trump the number of refugees accepted be below 30,000, “already an historic low.” Since Congress passed the Refugee Act in 1980, the U.S. had admitted on average 95,000 refugees annually. In recent years, the U.S. has accepted between 50,000 to 75,000 refugees per year. The number was capped at 45,000 after Trump became president in 2017 and was scaled back to 30,000 refugees for fiscal year 2019.

New accusations surface against retired Wyoming bishop WASHINGTON, D.C. — A retired bishop already facing a Vatican trial for allegations that he sexually abused minors years ago is facing three new accusations of abuse, said the Diocese of Cheyenne, Wyo. This summer, retired Bishop Joseph H. Hart appeared on a roster the Diocese of Cheyenne released listing 11 clergy with substantiated allegations of sexual abuse of minors or vulnerable persons. Since then, the diocese said in a Sept. 10 statement, three additional people have come forward saying they, too, were sexually abused by the prelate in the 1970s and 1980s – the period during which all the incidents in the state are alleged to have occurred. The 87-year-old bishop has maintained his innocence. Because Wyoming does not have a statute of limitations, decades-

long claims can still be investigated and prosecuted, and Bishop Hart could become the first U.S. prelate to face a criminal trial for the abuses. In mid-August, authorities in Cheyenne recommended sex abuse charges be brought against an unnamed clergy member, believed to be Bishop Hart, as well as against a second unnamed “person seeking membership” in the Catholic clergy for accusations of abuse that may have occurred in the 1970s and 1980s, said an Aug. 14 news release by the Cheyenne Police Department. Though the diocese didn’t release details about the new allegations, it says they “have been reported to the civil authorities, and the Diocese of Cheyenne has cooperated fully with the police.”

Hebda to oversee inquiry into bishop’s handling of abuse claim ST. PAUL, Minn. — Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda of St. Paul and Minneapolis will oversee an investigation of Bishop Michael J. Hoeppner of Crookston for allegedly thwarting a police or canonical investigation of clerical sexual misconduct. Archbishop Hebda confirmed the investigation Sept. 10. “Law enforcement has been notified of the allegations,” Archbishop Hebda said. “The allegations were reported to me under the procedures set out in Pope Francis’ recent legislation addressing bishop accountability, the ‘motu proprio’ (titled) ‘Vos Estis Lux Mundi.’” The archbishop is overseeing the investigation as the metropolitan for the province of Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. Pope Francis issued “Vos Estis Lux Mundi” (“You Are the Light of the World”) in May. The “motu proprio” includes a number of protocols for addressing abuse claims, including holding Church leaders accountable for actions or omissions related to the handling of such reports.

— Catholic News Service

Your Life’s Journey…

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9 – SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2019

Marian Eucharistic Conference

Featured Speakers

Msgr. Eduardo Sánchez Chávez, Co-founder and rector, Institute for Guadeloupian Studies; postulator Our featured speakers focus on for the cause of St. Juanwill Diego seeking anchor ourselves two Fr. WadetoMenezes, Fatherstoofthe Mercy pillars of the Real Presence of Christ in the Fr. Chris Alar, Eucharist and the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Marians of the Immaculate Conception Justin Fatica, Executive Director, Hard as Nails; author Fr. Donald Calloway, MIC Most Rev. Robert E. Guglielmone Marian priest, author, and speaker

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Bishop of Charleston

Fr. Bill Casey, CPM The Fathers of Mercy

Registration Fr. Wade Menezes, CPM

The Fathers of Mercy$80, Youth: $40 General Admission: Registration required

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Dcn. Harold Burke-Sivers Registration after Oct. 24: $90.

Catholic Evangelist and Speaker Saturday and Sunday buffet lunches are included.

We offer gluten freeGomez meals.

Dr. Ricardo Castanon For more information, call Eucharistic Miracle Researcher (864) 354-7160Psychologist or go to and Clinical www.meconferencesc.net

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15

Our world 16

catholicnewsherald.com | September 27, 2019 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Church exists to proclaim Christ, not itself, pope says JUNNO AROCHO ESTEVES CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

VATICAN CITY — The Catholic Church must not become a distant memory for men and women today but must be a welcoming place where everyone feels at home, Pope Francis said.

Too often, people judge the Church to be either irrelevant in today’s world or perceive it as “too powerful in comparison with the great poverties of the world,” the pope said Sept. 21.

“I would say that it is right to be

concerned, but above all to be mindful if one perceives a worldly Church, that is, one that follows the criteria of success of the world and forgets that it does not exist to proclaim itself, but rather Jesus,” he said.

Pope Francis made his comments to 300 people participating in an international meeting of schools, movements and associations involved in the new evangelization. The Pontifical Council for Promoting New Evangelization sponsored the meeting. Reflecting on the meeting’s theme, “Is it possible to meet God? The paths of the new evangelization,” Pope Francis

said that like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, people sometimes do not recognize God even when He is close to them.

A Church that is more concerned with “defending its good name” than with proclaiming the Gospel, he warned, ends up “being more of a beautiful museum artifact than the simple and festive home of the Father.”

“What our brothers and sisters often ask of us, perhaps without being able to pose the question, corresponds to one’s deepest needs: to love and be loved, to be accepted for what one is, to find peace of heart and a joy that is more lasting than entertainment,” he said.

Pope Francis said the Church can reach out to others by following Jesus’ example with the disciples on the road to Emmaus, that is “not so much by teaching, never by judging, but by

making us companions on the road.”

The Church achieves this by not “pretending to have immediate answers and without giving pre-packaged answers, but rather sharing words of life; not aimed at making proselytes, but by leaving room for the creative force of the Holy Spirit, who frees the heart from the slavery that oppresses and renews it,” the pope said.

To proclaim God to others, he added, does not mean to “justify His existence” because “even the devil knows that God exists.” Instead, the Church fulfills its duty to proclaim God’s love by “giving witness to the joy of knowing Him.” “God is not the answer to an intellectual curiosity or to a commitment of the will, but an experience of love, called to become a story of love. The mystery of God is never exhausted; it is as immense as His love.”

Pope Francis leads an audience with participants of an international meeting of schools, movements and associations of the new evangelization at the Vatican Sept. 21. The pope said the church should be more concerned with welcoming those who are far from the church rather than defending its good name.

CNS | VATICAN MEDIA

Meeting Jesus in Your Heart: Praying with St. Ignatius of Loyola Friday, October 11 7:00pm – 9:00pm Saturday, October 12 9:30am – 4:00pm

Presented by: Carl McColman

St. Ignatius of Loyola was one of the great spiritual guides in the history of the church. He developed a rich and unique approach to prayer, combining Biblical passages with the imagination to foster a deep encounter with Christ.

Friday – learn about how St. Ignatius of Loyola developed the Spiritual Exercises. Saturday – we’ll pray together using Ignatius’s methods to seek God’s will and direction for our lives – and to enjoy the beautiful gift of God’s love and grace given to us through Christ and the Spirit.

Carl McColman is a popular presenter, retreat leader and author of several books on Christian spirituality, including mysticism and Celtic spirituality. He is RCIA director at a Jesuit parish in Georgia and a lay Cistercian at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit in Conyers, GA. $10 – Friday Evening only $ 40 – Saturday only (lunch included) $ 45 – Both Sessions (lunch included) $ 80 – Both Sessions + Overnight (meals included)

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

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St. William Catholic Church 765 Andrews Rd. Murphy, NC 28906

Tuesday, October 29, 2019 Topic: “The Beatitudes and Living the Christian life”

Presented By: Sr. Mary Hugh Mauldin, RSM, MA Check-In: Welcome & Announcements Program: Lunch: Program: Closing Remarks: Closing Prayer Service:

10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m. – 10:40 a.m.

10:40 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

2:00 p.m. – 2:10 p.m.

2:20 p.m.

Program & Lunch are FREE but registration required Deadline for Registration: Tuesday, October 22nd Morning Refreshments and Lunch are being provided by the Parish Ministry at St. William’s To Register: Contact Sandra Breakfield, Program Director Elder Ministry at 704-370-3220 or email sabreakfield@charlottediocese.org.

Members of St. William’s, Murphy or Immaculate Heart of Mary, Hayesville please contact Gail Maloof at 828-837-2000

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September 27, 2019 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief Commitment to fighting climate change still weak, pope says VATICAN CITY — The international community must ramp up its efforts if it expects to mitigate the negative effects of climate change, Pope Francis said. In a video message sent Sept. 23 to participants at the U.N. Climate Action Summit in New York, the pope said that while the 2015 Paris climate agreement raised awareness and the “need for a collective response,” the commitments made by countries “are still very weak and are far from achieving the objectives set. It is necessary,” he said, “to ask whether there is a real political will to allocate greater human, financial and technological resources to mitigate the negative effects of climate change and to help the poorest and most vulnerable populations, who suffer the most.” Calling climate change “one of the most serious and worrying phenomena of our time,” the pope said that states have a duty to fight against it and that despite the weak response, a “window of opportunity is still open.”

Pope to doctors: Culture of care essential for the common good VATICAN CITY — With so many changes and huge technological advancements in the field of medicine, health care must always be at the service of the whole individual, including a supportive relationship between patient and medical professionals, Pope Francis said.

17

People facing illness must be accompanied “conscientiously, with intelligence and heart,” recognizing their dignity and fragility, he said Sept. 20 during an audience with members of the Italian Federation of Medical-Surgical and Dental Associations. “By its definition, medicine is serving human life,” which sees the integral whole of the person, including their spiritualmaterial and individual-social aspects, he said.

It is precisely because of their belief in this truth that they are rightly concerned about the “hidden dangers today’s medicine is exposed to,” he said. They must resist temptations – led in part by policies making it legal – “to use medicine to support a possible desire for death by the person who is ill, providing assisted suicide or directly causing death with euthanasia.”

Cardinal Pell appeals convictions SYDNEY — Cardinal George Pell, the most senior Catholic cleric to be convicted of child sexual abuse offenses, has lodged an application with Australia’s High Court to appeal his guilty verdict. The application to the country’s highest court is Cardinal Pell’s last avenue of appeal and comes 27 days after the Supreme Court of the Australian state of Victoria decided not to overturn his conviction on one count of child rape and four counts of indecently assaulting minors.

The crimes involved two 13-year-old boys, in 1986 and 1987. According to The Australian newspaper, Cardinal Pell’s legal team said the believability of the single witness was not sufficient for “beyond reasonable doubt.” If the case is heard, it will have widespread ramifications for trials concerning sexual abuse. Unlike his first appeal, which had a high chance of being heard, this last appeal has less certainty. The Australian High Court will decide to hear a case only if it is of national importance on a point of law or is in the interests of “the administration of justice” or concerns a dispute between courts.

— Catholic News Service

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Room At The Inn

~ 20 Annual Benefit Banquet~ th

Our speaker for the banquet this year is Pam Tebow. The notoriety of the Tebow family increased when their youngest son won the Heisman Trophy following his sophomore football season with the Florida Gators. Because ESPN aired the portion of the interview with Pam that focused on her refusal to abort 'Timmy' when she was advised to do so, she has been given a national platform to encourage the pro-life message.

If you would like to sponsor the event or host a table, please contact Marianne at 336.391.6299 or by email mdonadio@roominn.org For more info please visit www.roominn.org/events

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catholicnewsherald.com | September 27, 2019 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Father Peter Ascik

D

There is no doubt as to when life begins

emocratic presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg attracted attention recently with comments about the Bible and abortion. In a radio interview that touched on questions of faith, Buttigieg criticized the prolife position, suggesting that it is based on a questionable interpretation of what the Bible says about when life begins. As he put it: “You know, there’s a lot of parts of the Bible that talk about how life begins with breath, and so even that is something that we can interpret differently.”

‘In politics and in life, there are plenty of questions that are open to interpretation. The humanity of the unborn child is not one of them.’

Buttigieg may have been referring to Genesis 2:7, which describes the creation of Adam: “Then the Lord God formed the man out of the dust of the ground and blew into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.” It is true that in this passage, as in other places in the Old Testament, those who are alive are described as possessing the “breath of life.” However, this richly symbolic phrase – which plays on the fact that the Hebrew word “ruah” can mean both “breath” and “spirit” – cannot be reduced to the simplistic doctrine that only beings actively exchanging air through their lungs are alive. To interpret it in this way would exclude fish, for instance, from among the living. In the Bible, “breath of life” is a figure of speech, not a biological criterion.

An additional problem in using the creation of the first human being to understand human life in the womb is that Adam’s life began in a completely unique way. He was not conceived by a mother and a father, and he did not develop in the womb the way subsequent human beings do. Rather, he was directly formed by God. The account of Adam’s creation, therefore, cannot tell us anything about the humanity of the developing human embryo or fetus.

When the Bible does speak about life in the womb, it always treats the unborn human being as a person known and loved by God, the subject of His care and special protection. The Lord says to the prophet Jeremiah, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you” (Jer 1:5).

In Job 31:15, he asks rhetorically “Did (God) not make us in the womb?” Psalm 139:13 and Isaiah 44:24 agree that it is indeed God who “formed you in the womb.”

And of course, in Luke’s Gospel the unborn John the Baptist greets the unborn Jesus by leaping in his mother Elizabeth’s womb at the greeting of Mary (Lk 1:44). In the Bible, the unborn child is not only human in a biological sense but is also a person known to God, who cares for him or her in an intimate and loving way.

But the Bible verse that is most relevant to abortion is the Fifth Commandment, “You shall not kill” (Ex 20:13; also see Mt 19:18), part of the Decalogue which is the heart of both Jewish and Christian morality. This principle means that it is never permissible to directly

kill an innocent human being. The important question, therefore, is one of fact: is the human embryo or fetus destroyed by abortion an innocent human being? If so, then abortion is forbidden by the Fifth Commandment.

In his interview, Buttigieg suggested that we cannot definitively know when life begins. He called it a “kind of cosmic question” and suggested that each of us “draw the line” of life’s beginning according to our personal beliefs.

In fact, the answer to the question of when human life begins is far from mysterious or subjective. Modern biology and medicine teach us definitively that life begins at conception. As one medical textbook states: “Human development begins at fertilization, the process during which a male gamete or sperm (spermatozoo development) unites with a female gamete or oocyte (ovum) to form a single cell called a zygote. This highly specialized, totipotent cell marked the beginning of each of us as a unique individual.” (Keith L. Moore and T.V.N. Persaud, “The Developing Human: Clinically Oriented Embryology,” 8th edition).

The zygote or embryo whose development begins at conception is growing by cellular reproduction and thus is alive. It has a distinct DNA from its mother and is not a part of its mother’s body. It is the offspring of human parents and it is human. There is in fact no ambiguity whatsoever about when human life begins. Drawing this “line” is not, as Buttigieg claims, a vague “cosmic question” that each of us can answer as we choose. It is a clear line – beginning at conception.

As the Catholic Church’s 1974 “Declaration on Procured Abortion” noted, abortion has been forbidden from the beginning of Christianity. The first-century catechism known as the Didache stated this clearly: “You shall not kill by abortion the fruit of the womb and you shall not murder the infant already born.” The great Fathers and Doctors of the Church agreed that abortion was impermissible. The lack of precise knowledge about the details of embryology for much of the Church’s history did not cast any doubt on the evil of abortion. As the third-century theologian Tertullian declared: “To prevent birth is anticipated murder; it makes little difference whether one destroys a life already born or does away with it in its nascent stage. The one who will be a man is already one.”

In modern times, the advancement of medical science and embryology has removed any doubt that what is present in the womb from conception is an individual member of the human species – a human being. And every human being has a fundamental right to life.

Asking the law to protect this right is not an extreme position. It is not the imposition of an esoteric religious viewpoint. It is a basic requirement of justice, backed both by science and by sound religion.

In politics and in life, there are plenty of questions that are open to interpretation. The humanity of the unborn child is not one of them. There can be no social justice if some human beings are deprived of the most basic legal protection. We should demand that all of our politicians defend the rights of the unborn child.

FATHER PETER ASCIK is parochial vicar of St. Matthew Church in Charlotte.

NOTE: A SIDEWALK COUNSELING TRAINING CLASS, sponsored by Sidewalk Advocates for Life and hosted by Father Peter Ascik and members of St. Matthew Church, will be held from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, at St. Matthew Church. For details, see PAGE 11.

Father John Michalowski, S.J.

Would you save the children?

O

ver the summer, during the weekday Masses, we have been reading from the Book of Exodus. Early on we hear of how a new Pharaoh, “Who knew nothing of Joseph, came to power in Egypt.” He reduced the Hebrews to slaves building the store cities of Ramses and Pithom. Because the Hebrews were more prolific than the Egyptians, he commanded all his subject to “Throw into the river every boy born to the Hebrews, but you may let the girls live.”

Earlier this summer, we read in Genesis the story of Joseph. Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers and was resold in Egypt. There he eventually rose to power in the court of Pharaoh, and when his family faced a drought-induced famine in Canaan, they emigrated and settled in Egypt. At that time, the Pharaoh was not a native Egyptian; rather the Hyksos, a Semitic people, had invaded Egypt and they had taken power. But when the Egyptians regained power, they drove out the Hyksos.

The Hebrews who had remained behind were distrusted for they were Semites, and so they were enslaved.

The Exodus story turns to Moses. Early on we see the love that parents have for their children and how Moses’ mother would not give up her baby son to be killed.

Rather, she hid him for as long as she could. She then hatched a plot in an attempt to save him. She put Moses into a waterproof basket and had Moses’ sister, Miriam, take him down to the Nile and placed the basket in the reeds near where one of the Pharaoh’s daughters often bathed. When this young woman saw the basket, she had her handmaid fetch it for her. There she found a crying baby boy. Her heart was moved, and she decided to adopt the child. But she needed a wet-nurse. Moses’ sister stepped forward and said she knew of a Hebrew woman to nurse the baby. Pharaoh’s daughter agreed and Moses’ mother got to nurse her own child for the next two-and-ahalf to three years.

The account of Moses reminds us of the love that parents have for their children and how they will do desperate things to save them. We have a similar situation on our southern border as parents flee violence in Central America to try to save their children.

One parishioner, who has gone to Honduras often to visit his Jesuit brother who has lived there for 30 years, has compared the chaos in Honduras to that of Somalia.

There is no law and order – rather gangs and corrupt officials rule the roost. Some 98 percent of murders are never solved; in fact, most are not even investigated. The murder rate in Honduras and Nicaragua is on the same level as the rate of killing in Syria, Yemen and Somalia, all nations at war.

If you were a parent, what would you do? Would you be like Moses’ mother and try anything to save your child?

If you were Jesus, what would you do? Catholic social teaching tells us that persons have a right to migrate to support themselves and their families. It also tells us that refugees and asylum seekers have a right to claim refugee status and have their claims considered by a competent authority. The United States is a signatory on the United Nations resolutions that support these rights.

Interestingly, the U.N. Declaration on Human Rights was written with the help of Jacques Maritan, a Catholic Neo-Thomist philosopher, and was applauded by numerous 20th century popes. If one is a Catholic and an American politician, what should one do? What should we do and their constituents?

Perhaps the least that we can do is to pray with CHILDREN, SEE PAGE 20

September 27, 2019 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

19

Bobby Spears

If the shoe fits…

R

omans 10:13-15, tells us: For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” But how can they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how can they believe in him of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone to preach? And how can people preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring (the) good news!”

So, what kind of shoes do you have on your feet? Are they fashionable, comfy, practical, silly, work related, athletic, or meant for special occasions? And what do shoes have to do with our Christian faith?

‘So stand fast with your loins girded in truth, clothed with righteousness as a breastplate, and your feet shod in readiness for the gospel of peace.’

Ephesians 6:10-17 They can symbolize how we approach our faith, and how we live as Christians.

Take new shoes, for example. They always pinch your feet, and you cannot wait to take them off. Some Christians, although they should be teachers, are still wearing the new shoes that keep pinching their toes. They hear the word of God, it convicts them, but they are unwilling to give up their worldly ways because they like the way the shoes look.

There are some Catholics who wear loafers, sitting in the pew, keeping the seat warm and just sliding by. They relax God’s word to fit their feet, for they don’t want to be uncomfortable. They have a tendency to be spiritually “laid back,” having little to no conviction. They don’t want to get their hands dirty, leaving all the work for the other members. When invited to grow in their faith or volunteer to further the work of the Church, they put up their hands and say, “Oh, I am too busy.”

What about sneakers? Sneakers like to go where they shouldn’t. Whispering seems to follow their footsteps. They sneak around, creating turmoil and division in the Church. They are called sneakers, because you cannot hear them coming or going, but you can see their tracks in the dirt.

Flip-flops are casual and flip-flop when they walk, hence the name. These brothers and sisters are excited when they hear the Word of God. They serve and volunteer for a short period of time. Unfortunately, these shoes are perfect during the summer but when the winter wind blows, they

flip-flop back into their old ways. Flip-flop wearers also sit on the fence of indecision.

They will flip-flop with the majority, not standing up for the truth when it is difficult.

Booties are worn by newborns. They are made of soft material to protect a baby’s foot, but there are adult Christians who still wear them. They grew up in the Church, yet their faith and knowledge of God’s word is still in the infancy stage.

They should be eating the solid food of the Word, but they don’t have the wherewithal to move beyond applesauce.

Slides are convenient shoes and they will only do the bare minimum, hoping to slide into heaven. There are Christians who wear leather mules. Mules are slides, but slides are not mules. We have a few mules in the Church – immovable Christians who stubbornly toil in the trenches. Their downfall is that they do not budge their position even when they are wrong. They don’t want to try anything new in the Church because it was tried 30 years ago and it didn’t work, they object.

Their narrow-minded views stifle Church growth. They work very hard but their opinions, misconceptions and feelings of superiority become a stumbling block for others around them.

Some shoes, such as slippers, are worn in specific places. Slippers are worn inside church, but once they leave the parking lot, they are replaced by another pair of shoes.

God wants us to be the same people in the church and when we leave the church.

In most closets, there is at least one pair of dress shoes. We might put on these special occasion shoes on Sunday morning and wear them to church. These shoes are more costly than regular shoes. Our intention is to impress others with our expensive taste. These shoes are worn only occasionally – usually at Christmas and Easter.

Work boots or business shoes have a purpose and a job to do. These are the shoes that all Christians should wear in and out of the church. These shoes provide comfort and support to the wearer, enabling them to get the job done.

As St. Paul reminds us in Ephesians 6:10-17: “Finally, draw your strength from the Lord and from His mighty power. Put on the armor of God so that you may be able to stand firm against the tactics of the devil. For our struggle is not with flesh and blood but with the principalities, with the powers, with the world rulers of this present darkness, with the evil spirits in the heavens. Therefore, put on the armor of God, that you may be able to resist on the evil day and, having done everything, to hold your ground. So stand fast with your loins girded in truth, clothed with righteousness as a breastplate, and your feet shod in readiness for the gospel of peace. In all circumstances, hold faith as a shield, to quench all (the) flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” BOBBY SPEERS is an author who lives in Hickory. Her writing can be found online at www.writecatholic.com.

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Catholic News Herald 1123 S. Church St. Charlotte, N.C. 28203

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catholicnewsherald.com | September 27, 2019 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

POVERTY FROM PAGE 5

Catholic Conference Center 1551 Trinity Lane Hickory, NC 28602

Tuesday, October 15, 2019 Presented by: Fr. Brian Becker Check-In & Light Refreshments: Welcome & Announcements: Program: Lunch: Program: Wrap-Up: Closing Mass:

9:45 a.m. – 10:20 a.m.

10:20 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

2:00 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.

2:20 p.m.

Cost: $18 Per Person includes Morning Refreshments & lunch Checks: Payable to Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte Registration Deadline: Monday, October 7 by 12 p.m.

To Register: Contact Sandra Breakfield at 704-370-3220 or email at sabreakfield@charlottediocese.org You can also mail your name, address and registration fee to: Catholic Charities 1123 South Church Street Charlotte, NC 28203 Attn: Sandra Breakfield

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participant the flexibility to schedule appointments based on their needs.

And it enables us to organize our daily schedule in a way that gives each client time to discuss other issues that they are struggling with. I really like the one-on-one client interaction,” she says.

TOP volunteer Rick Lober retired from a 28-year career in law enforcement and now serves as a mentor for the program.

“I went to the initial orientation presentation in my parish and thought this might be a good transition in my desire to serve and put my faith into action,” Lober says. “I was intrigued by the program’s evolution from primarily a food pantry to a more personal approach, to learn about the incredible persons who need essential food needs and yet seek to become more selfsufficient and improve the lives of their family and themselves.”

“The key is helping them to take the initiative to define those goals and ways

CHILDREN FROM PAGE 18

Catholic Relief Services and the U.S. bishops: God of Compassion, We seek your protection and comfort for immigrant families.

For families separated by violence and destruction, forced to flee their homes and everything they know; for the asylum-seeking

to achieve one or more of them. Often, it is done in ‘baby steps’ that we track and encourage. I love their appreciation that someone takes an active interest in her or him,” he says.

Participating TOP families open their hearts and souls to the volunteers because they see them as non-judgmental, caring people who truly care about them as a person – not a number, he adds.

“People wish they didn’t need help, but they greatly appreciate someone helping them and assisting them to find ways out of their situation – whether small or large,” he says.

“By choosing to live our faith and not just practice our faith, the women and men involved with TOP have been given a special opportunity to follow the Gospel’s path of helping the poor, needy, sick, children, destitute and others,” he says.

“Working to end poverty isn’t just something that will help those affected,” adds Davis. “This affects the greater good.

Catholic Charities is doing more. The professional staff, and the compassion and dedication of volunteers, all work together to be the hands and feet of the Lord to help people be who they are called to be.”

families separated in the name of border security; for parents who send their children alone to a new land in the hope of building a future for them; for families separated here in our country by deportation; provide solace and peace to these families. Comfort them in their time of sorrow. Guide those in positions of power toward compassion.

Grant us the courage and compassion to be a presence of welcome, of radical hospitality for the most vulnerable in our midst. Amen.

JESUIT FATHER JOHN W. MICHALOWSKI is parochial vicar at St. Peter Church in Charlotte.