Dec. 18, 2020

December 18, 2020

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

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2021

2021September Eucharistic 17-18 Congress theme, dates announced Diocese of Charlotte Eucharistic Congress

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Se anunció tema del Congreso Eucarístico 2021 11 INDEX

Contact us.....................................4 Español.......................................10-12 Online Masses...............................4 Our Faith........................................2 Our Parishes............................ 3-8 Schools........................................ 13 Scripture readings.......................2 TV & Movies.............................14-15 U.S. news..................................... 16 Viewpoints..............................18-19 World news................................. 17

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‘An occasion to rejoice’ Ground broken, blessed for $21M MACS Fine Arts Center 13 Iniciaron obras, una bendición de $21M para el Centro de Bellas Artes de MACS

‘Peace to this household’ Housing Corp. opens largestever affordable housing effort, thanks to unique partnership

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Guadalupana trajo consuelo a comunidad golpeada por la pandemia Palabras de la Virgen “¿No estoy yo aquí que soy tu madre?” resonaron en miles de corazones

The timelessness of ‘O Magnum Mysterium’

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Our faith 2

catholicnewsherald.com | December 18, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Blood on the straw Pope Francis

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Pray for one, pray for all

f Christians forget to remember in prayer people who are suffering, their prayer can become a superficial activity that feeds their ego rather than seeking the good and well-being of others, Pope Francis said.

“Those who pray never turn their backs on the world” but instead, seek to intercede for humanity through prayer, the pope said Dec. 16 during his weekly general audience. “When believers – moved by the Holy Spirit – pray for sinners, no selection is made, no judgment or condemnation is uttered,” he said. “They pray for everyone, and they pray for themselves.

At that moment, they know they are not that different from those for whom they pray.”

Continuing his series of talks on prayer, the pope reflected on “the prayer of intercession.”

Although many people seek solitude and silence in prayer, he said, they should do so always keeping “the door of their hearts wide open” to pray for those who can’t or won’t pray for themselves.

People who pray aware of others are like “God’s antennas in the world” and, as stated in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, have “a heart attuned to God’s mercy.”

“This is beautiful,” the pope said, departing from his prepared remarks.

“When we pray, we are in tune with God’s mercy, mercy in the face of our sins; He is merciful with us. But He is also merciful with all those who have asked us to pray for them, those who we wish to pray for in tune with God’s heart.

This is the true prayer, to be in tune with God’s mercy, with that merciful heart.”

Continuing to cite the catechism, the pope said that those who pray for others participate in Christ’s intercession before God for all of humanity.

True prayer, he continued, must also be done in a “spirit of love.” Those who do not pray with love in their hearts, especially for others, only “pretend to pray or they think they are praying and they’re not because that spirit of love is missing.”

Recalling Christ’s parable of the Pharisee and the publican praying in the temple, the pope said it reminds us “we are not better than anyone” and that as sinners, all share a common “fragility, suffering and being sinners.”

One who prays like the Pharisee does it “in an arrogant way” that isn’t prayer but is more like “looking at yourself in the mirror with makeup on.”

“We are all leaves on the same tree,” Pope Francis said. “Each one that falls reminds us of the great piety that must be nourished in prayer for one another.

Let us pray for one another; it will be good for us and for all.”

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Twas the night after Christmas, and to assist the apostles and to tend to the last of the apostles to die and the only one all through the land Christians were Church’s works of charity (Acts 6:1not to die a martyr. From John we learn sweeping away the remnants of gift 6). He was martyred for his witness to the Christian life requires perseverance – wrappings, falling from their month-long God, and his martyrdom was one of the even when co-religionists desert us, even sugar high, planning when to dispose of catalysts for the conversion of Saul, the when beloved friends die and leave us to the dying greenery decking their halls, and great persecutor of Christians. In Stephen carry on alone. If there is anything worse dreading the credit card bills due to arrive we first see how, as Tertullian noted in than a gruesome martyrdom, perhaps it in January. Even among the Catholics, who “Apologeticus,” the blood of the martyrs is the responsibility to be the last living know (or should know) that Christmas is will become the seed of the Church. We witness of an entire generation. a season that can last St. Thomas Becket lived through Candlemas more than a thousand depending on which years after Stephen reckoning of the season and John. He was they prefer, there can martyred was because sometimes be a feeling he challenged the right of “Was that really what of the king (Henry II Christmas is all about?” of England) to try one In the midst of of Becket’s priests. deflated expectations While the relationship and merrymaking between Church and burnout, it might come state has gone through as a surprise that the many changes over Octave of Christmas the centuries, the contains a surprising human need for a number of feast days supranational sanctuary that have nothing to do to protect people who with the holly-jolly spirit find themselves at odds of our modern secular with state authorities celebration of Christmas. has not changed. These I never gave too much days, in countries thought to this myself like our own, that aid until a few years ago, usually takes the form when this apologetics of providing spiritual question came in from care and addressing an inquirer: “Why does material needs, but it the Church celebrate the can occasionally include Holy Innocents before helping families remain Epiphany? I don’t think together by offering the children were killed temporary sanctuary to prior to the arrival of the “The Massacre of the Innocents” by Angelo Viscónti (1860-1861), on display at the Cassioli those who are trying to Magi at the manger.”

Museum in Asciano, near Siena find a way to remain in The arrangement of the a safe country. In many Church’s liturgical calendar is not always also will see in Saul-turned-Paul how the ways, Becket’s story anticipated that of intended to be in chronological order. imperfections of the saints may take a St. Thomas More, who lived about 400 Sometimes feast days are arranged by lifetime to overcome. Although St. Luke years after Becket and was martyred at theological significance. records in the book of Acts that Paul spoke the hands of another English king named There are a slew of feast days right after of Stephen in telling his conversion story Henry. The lives of both of these saintly Christmas that emphasize the fact that the (Acts 22:20), Paul never mentions Stephen martyrs demonstrate that Christians will events surrounding Christmas were an by name in any of his letters – even in always have an uneasy relationship with anticipation of Christ’s eventual suffering, places where it might seem appropriate for the state. While we are called to obey and death and Resurrection. Dec. 26 is the feast him to have done so. Perhaps Paul simply honor earthly leaders, we are also called to of St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr could not bring himself to commit to preserve for God that which is God’s. after the establishment of the Church. Dec. writing his memory of Stephen.

Finally, there are the Holy Innocents.

27 is the feast of St. John the Evangelist, Alone among the apostles, St. John the When King Herod was alerted to the the Beloved Disciple who stood at the Evangelist stood at the foot of Christ’s possibility of a usurper to his throne, he foot of the cross and received the Blessed cross. To him Christ entrusted His mother set about to crush that threat. When the Mother from Christ to be his own mother. to be John’s mother. John also stood as Magi did not return so that Herod could Dec. 29 is the feast of St. Thomas Becket, representative for all Christians, for whom interrogate them as to the newborn King’s bishop and martyr. In the midst of this is Christ’s mother would become our Mother whereabouts, Herod decided to murder Dec. 28, the feast of the Holy Innocents, the (John 19:26-27). John witnessed the blood first martyrs after the birth of Christ. and water pour out from the side of Christ St. Stephen was ordained a deacon (John 19:34). He is believed to have been the BLOOD, SEE PAGE 8

Daily Scripture readings DEC. 20-26

Sunday: 2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16, Romans 16:25-27, Luke 1:26-38; Monday (St. Peter Canisius): Song of Songs 2:8-14, Luke 1:39-45; Tuesday: 1 Samuel 1:24-28, 1 Samuel 2:1, 4-8, Luke 1:46-56; Wednesday (St. John of Kanty): Malachi 3:1-4, 23-24 Luke 1:57-66; Thursday: 2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16, Luke 1:67-79; Friday (The Nativity of the Lord): Isaiah 9:1-6, Titus 2:11-14, Luke 2:1-14; Saturday (St. Stephen): Acts 6:8-10, 7:5459, Matthew 10:17-22

DEC. 27-JAN. 2

Sunday (The Holy Family): Genesis 15:1-6, 21:1-3, Hebrews 11:8, 11-12, 17-19, Luke 2:22-40; Monday (The Holy Innocents): 1 John 1:5-2:2, Matthew 2:13-18; Tuesday (St. Thomas Becket): 1 John 2:3-11, Luke 2:22-35; Wednesday: 1 John 2:12-17, Luke 2:36-40; Thursday (St. Sylvester I): 1 John 2:18-21, John 1:1-18; Friday (Mary, the Mother of God): Numbers 6:22-27, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:16-21; Saturday (Sts. Basil the Great and Gregory Nazianzen): 1 John 2:22-28, John 1:19-28

JAN. 3-9

Sunday (The Epiphany of the Lord): Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6, Matthew 2:1-12; Monday (St. Elizabeth Ann Seton): 1 John 3:22-4:6, Matthew 4:12-17, 23-25; Tuesday (St. John Neumann): 1 John 4:710, Mark 6:34-44; Wednesday (St. Andre Bessette): 1 John 4:11-18, Mark 6:45-52; Thursday (St. Raymond of Penyafort: 1 John 4:19-5:4, Luke 4:14-22a; Friday: 1 John 5:5-13, Luke 5:12-16; Saturday: 1 John 5:14-21, John 3:22-30

Our parishes

December 18, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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2021 Eucharistic Congress theme announced

‘Peace to this household’ Housing Corp. opens largest-ever affordable housing thanks to unique partnership SUEANN HOWELL SENIOR REPORTER

CHARLOTTE — Bishop Peter Jugis recently blessed Guardian Angel Villa, the Diocese of Charlotte Housing Corp.’s largest-ever affordable housing project, as the first residents prepared to move into their new homes before Christmas.

The housing corporation, in partnership with Douglas Development and Schaumber Development, opened the 81-unit apartment building this week, offering below-market rent for seniors in a city with a severe lack of affordable housing.

A unique public-private-nonprofit partnership made the nearly $14 million project possible, with the housing corporation and its development partners securing federal tax credits and belowmarket loans from the state and the City of Charlotte.

The three-story Guardian Angel Villa is located on a 20-acre tract owned by the diocese on South Tryon Street in the Steele Creek area. It is the second housing facility on a campus with room for additional development and that already includes Mother Teresa Villa for adults with developmental disabilities.

On Dec. 9, Bishop Jugis sprinkled holy water and blessed the building, noting that the Christmas season is near and praying, “Peace to this household. Peace to all mankind. May we pray that the same heavenly blessing remain upon all who live at Guardian Angel Villa and upon this building.”

Guardian Angel Villa is the fourth affordable housing project for the housing corporation, founded in 2001 to create, maintain and promote housing for seniors, people with disabilities and other vulnerable people. Overall, the diocese has made available 153

affordable housing units in Charlotte and Salisbury, which are open for lease to people of all backgrounds.

Located on Guardian Angel Lane, the 102,000-square-foot building includes two elevators and is designed for seniors aged 55 and older, including some who have disabilities. It has 27 one-bedroom and 54 two-bedroom units. Nine apartments are accessible for people with hearing and mobility challenges.

Guardian Angel Villa features a chapel, outdoor spaces with rocking chairs and benches, a large front porch and balcony where residents can relax, enjoy the gardens and socialize.

Three-quarters of the units will lease to seniors earning 60 percent or below the area median income. One-quarter will lease to those making 30 percent or below area median income. Rents are projected to range from $342 to $866, depending on income, HOUSEHOLD, SEE PAGE 8

Bishop Jugis to celebrate livestreamed Masses this Christmas season CHARLOTTE — Bishop Peter J. Jugis will celebrate the following livestreamed Masses during the Christmas season at St. Patrick Cathedral: n Christmas Midnight Mass, Friday, Dec. 25 n Solemnity of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, 11 a.m. Mass, Sunday, Dec. 27

n Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God, 11 a.m. Mass, Friday, Jan. 1.

Please note that all Christmas Masses at the cathedral this year require reservations for in-person attendance due to reduced seating capacity and pandemic protocols.

Because seating in the cathedral is restricted

or limited, all three Masses will be streamed live for the faithful to attend virtually. Go to the Diocese of Charlotte’s YouTube channel (www. youtube.com/DioceseofCharlotte). Subscribe to the channel to get a reminder alert before the livestreams begin.

— SueAnn Howell, senior reporter

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SUEANN HOWELL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

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Bishop Peter Jugis, assisted by Monsignor Patrick Winslow, blesses the front entrance of the new Guardian Angel Villa Dec. 9.

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CHARLOTTE — The theme for the 16th Annual Eucharistic Congress has been announced by Bishop Peter J. Jugis: “As I Have Loved You.” In announcing the theme, Bishop Jugis notes the integral connection between the love of Christ and the Eucharist: “The Holy Eucharist is the sacrament of Christ’s great Y D O E U V –J love for us, LO a love which He showed us by His sacrifice on the cross for our salvation.

Christ is really present in the Holy 2021 Eucharist, and through the Eucharist Diocese of Charlotte He strengthens our charity.”

Eucharistic Congress The 2021 theme comes from the September 17-18 Gospel of John 13:34.

In a treatise on John’s gospel, St. Augustine explains Jesus’ words, “A new commandment I give you, that you love one another” (Tractate 65, 1-3: CCL 36, 490-492).

In it, he says, “This commandment that He is giving them is a new one, the Lord Jesus tells His disciples. Yet was it not contained in the Old Law, where it is written: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself ?’ Why does the Lord call it new when it is clearly so old? Or is the commandment new because it divests us of our former selves and clothes us with the new man? Love does indeed renew the man who hears, or rather obeys its command; but only that love which Jesus distinguished from a natural love by the qualification: ‘As I have loved you.’”

St. Augustine continues, “This is the kind of love that renews us... This love is the gift of the Lord who said: ‘As I have loved you, you also must love one another.’ His object in loving us, then, was to enable us to love each other. By loving us Himself, our mighty Head has linked us all together as members of His own Body, bound to one another by the tender bond of love.”

The Eucharistic Congress will be held Sept. 17-18, 2021, at the Charlotte Convention Center.

— SueAnn Howell, senior reporter

Get updates online At www.goeucharist.com: Get information about the 2021 Eucharistic Congress, in English and Spanish, as it is developed.

Your DSA contributions at work The diocese’s Eucharistic Congress is funded in part by contributions to the annual Diocesan Support Appeal.

Learn more about the DSA and how you can contribute at www. charlottediocese.org/dsa.

Online Masses 4

catholicnewsherald.com | December 18, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

December 18, 2020 VOLUME 30 • NUMBER 6

The following parishes are providing live or recorded Masses each week.

An updated schedule is online at www.catholicnewsherald.com, or contact your parish for details.

LIVESTREAMED MASSES

RECORDED MASSES

The following parishes offer Masses live at the following times on their Facebook page or YouTube or Vimeo channel. If no time is listed here, check their parish website for more information:

The following parishes offer Masses recorded on their website, Facebook page, YouTube or Vimeo channel. Search those platforms for the parish’s name to find the latest Mass information:

BELMONT ABBEY MONASTERY: 11 a.m. daily

GOOD SHEPHERD MISSION, KING

DIVINE REDEEMER CHURCH, BOONVILLE: 9 and 11 a.m. Sunday

HOLY CROSS CHURCH, KERNERSVILLE

GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCH, KING: 11 a.m. English; 1:30 p.m. Spanish Sunday

HOLY SPIRIT CHURCH, DENVER

HOLY INFANT CHURCH, REIDSVILLE: 9 a.m. Sunday

IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY CHURCH, HIGH POINT

OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 10 a.m.

Sunday

OUR LADY OF CONSOLATION CHURCH, CHARLOTTE

OUR LADY OF LOURDES CHURCH, MONROE: 9 a.m. daily

OUR LADY OF MERCY CHURCH, WINSTON-SALEM

ADVERTISING MANAGER: Kevin Eagan 704-370-3332, keeagan@charlottediocese.org

QUEEN OF THE APOSTLES CHURCH, BELMONT: 9:15 and 11 a.m.

Sunday

SACRED HEART CHURCH, SALISBURY

SENIOR REPORTER: SueAnn Howell 704-370-3354, sahowell@charlottediocese.org

SACRED HEART CHURCH, BREVARD: 12 p.m. daily Mass, 10 a.m. Sunday

ST. GABRIEL CHURCH, CHARLOTTE

ONLINE REPORTER: Kimberly Bender 704-808-7341, kdbender@charlottediocese.org

SACRED HEART CHURCH, SALISBURY: 8 and 10:30 a.m. Sunday, 7 a.m. Monday, Tuesday, Friday, 5:15 p.m. Wednesday, 9 a.m. Thursday and 8 a.m. Saturday

ST. JOAN OF ARC CHURCH, CANDLER

ST. ANN CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. (Latin Mass) Sunday

ST. MARGARET MARY CHURCH, SWANNANOA

ST. BARNABAS CHURCH, ARDEN: 11 a.m. Bilingual Sunday Mass

ST. MARY MOTHER OF GOD CHURCH, SYLVA

ST. BASIL THE GREAT EASTERN CATHOLIC CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 11 a.m. Sunday

ST. MICHAEL CHURCH, GASTONIA

ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CHURCH, WINSTON-SALEM: 9 a.m.

English; 2 p.m. Spanish

ST. PAUL THE APOSTLE CHURCH, GREENSBORO

ST. DOROTHY CHURCH, LINCOLNTON: 9 a.m. Sunday

ST. STEPHEN MARONITE CHURCH, CHARLOTTE

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.

ST. EUGENE CHURCH, ASHEVILLE: 5:30 p.m. Saturday Vigil; 9 a.m.

Sunday Mass

ST. THERESE CHURCH, MOORESVILLE

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.

ST. JOHN NEUMANN CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 8, 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Sunday in English and 12 p.m. Sunday in Spanish

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

ST. LUKE CHURCH, MINT HILL: 9 and 11 a.m. Sunday in English; 1 p.m.

Sunday bilingual; 4:30 p.m. Sunday

1123 S. CHURCH ST. CHARLOTTE, N.C. 28203-4003 catholicnews@charlottediocese.org

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

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

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.

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.

ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CHURCH, MOCKSVILLE: 9 a.m. English; 10:30 a.m. Spanish ST. JAMES CHURCH, CONCORD: English and Spanish

ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST CHURCH, WAYNESVILLE, AND IMMACULATE CONCEPTION MISSION, CANTON ST. LAWRENCE BASILICA, ASHEVILLE: 7:30 a.m. Monday and Tuesday, 9 a.m. Sunday in English and 5 p.m. in Spanish.

ST. MARK CHURCH, HUNTERSVILLE: 7 and 9 a.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday; 7 a.m. Wednesday; 9 a.m. Saturday; 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sunday in English, and 1 p.m. in Spanish ST. MARY’S CHURCH, GREENSBORO: 8 a.m. Sunday ST. MARY, MOTHER OF GOD CHURCH, SYLVA: Noon Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday; 9 a.m. Saturday; 11:30 a.m. Sunday in English and 7 p.m. Saturday in Spanish ST. MATTHEW CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 12 p.m. daily; 9 a.m. Sunday ST. MICHAEL CHURCH, GASTONIA: 9 a.m. Sunday ST. PATRICK CATHEDRAL, CHARLOTTE: 11 p.m. Sunday ST. PAUL THE APOSTLE CHURCH, GREENSBORO: 9 a.m. Monday, Wednesday-Friday; 4:30 p.m. Saturday; 10:30 a.m. Sunday ST. PETER CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 11:30 a.m. Sunday

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CHURCH, FOREST CITY

OUR LADY OF GRACE CHURCH, GREENSBORO

ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CHURCH, LENOIR

ST. JOSEPH CHURCH, ASHEBORO ST. LEO THE GREAT CHURCH, WINSTON-SALEM ST. MARK CHURCH, HUNTERSVILLE

ST. PATRICK CATHEDRAL, CHARLOTTE ST. STEPHEN MISSION, ELKIN

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL CHURCH, CHARLOTTE EN ESPAÑOL OUR LADY OF GRACE CHURCH, GREENSBORO OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 8 a.m. domingo; 7:30 p.m. martes; 12 p.m. miércoles, jueves y viernes OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CHURCH, CHARLOTTE OUR LADY OF LOURDES CHURCH, MONROE SACRED HEART CHURCH, SALISBURY: 12:30 p.m. Domingo ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CHURCH, WINSTON-SALEM: 1:30 p.m.

Domingo ST. DOROTHY CHURCH, LINCOLNTON: 12 p.m. Domingo ST. EUGENE CHURCH, ASHEVILLE: 7:30 a.m. Domingo ST. JAMES THE GREATER CHURCH, CONCORD ST. JOAN OF ARC CHURCH, CANDLER ST. JOHN NEUMANN CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 12 p.m. Domingo ST. JOSEPH CHURCH, ASHEBORO ST. LAWRENCE BASILICA, ASHEVILLE: 5 p.m. Domingo ST. LUKE CHURCH, MINT HILL: 1 p.m. Domingo ST. MARK CHURCH, HUNTERSVILLE: 1 p.m. Domingo ST. MARY’S CHURCH, GREENSBORO: 11 a.m. Domingo ST. MARY, MOTHER OF GOD CHURCH, SYLVA: 7 p.m. Sabado ST. THERESE CHURCH: 2:30 p.m. Domingo VIETNAMESE ST. JOSEPH VIETNAMESE CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. Sunday ST. MARY’S CHURCH, GREENSBORO: 9:30 a.m. Sunday

ST. STEPHEN MISSION, ELKIN: 9 a.m. Sunday ST. THERESE CHURCH, MOORESVILLE: 9 a.m. weekdays, 5 p.m.

Saturday 8, 10 a.m. and Noon on Sunday ST. THOMAS AQUINAS CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 8:30 a.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday; 10 a.m. Saturday’ 9:30 a.m., Sunday; ST. VINCENT DE PAUL CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 10 a.m. daily, 10 a.m.

Sunday in English and 2 p.m. Sunday in Spanish

LATIN ST. ANN CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 12:30 p.m. Sunday OUR LADY OF GRACE CHURCH, GREENSBORO: 1 p.m. Sunday ST. THOMAS AQUINAS, CHARLOTTE: 12:15 and 7 p.m. Thursday

Bishop Peter J. Jugis will participate in the following upcoming events: DEC. 19 – 10 A.M. Mass for the Rite of Lector for Seminarians St. Patrick Cathedral Charlotte DEC. 25 – 12 A.M. Christmas Midnight Mass St. Patrick Cathedral Charlotte DEC. 27 – 11 A.M. Mass for the Solemnity of the Holy Family St. Patrick Cathedral Charlotte JAN. 1 – 11 A.M. Mass for the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God St. Patrick Cathedral Charlotte

December 18, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com

Seminarian Balkey commissioned as naval officer CINCINNATI — Diocese of Charlotte seminarian Darren Balkey, in formation at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology, recently took the oath of office and received his commission to the U.S. Navy. He is now a Chaplain Candidate Program Officer with the rank of ensign.

Ensign Balkey knew from a young age that he wanted to devote his life to Christ, and his path to military service was similar. His interest in becoming a chaplain was something he shared with his vocations director prior to entering the seminary. After high school, he attended Belmont Abbey College before completing pre-theology studies at the Pontifical College Josephinum. He is currently enrolled as a third-year seminarian at Mount St. Mary’s.

As a Chaplain Candidate Program Officer, he remains sponsored by the Charlotte diocese to continue his preparation for the priesthood and is also co-sponsored as a seminarian of the Archdiocese for the Military Services.

“I’m excited and nervous about the thought of becoming a chaplain because I’ll be providing spiritual strength and moral counsel in some of the most difficult situations by offering the most important healing remedies – the sacraments,” Ensign Balkey explained.

“I’ll be helping to bring Christ to men and women dealing with a variety of issues from combat trauma and family issues to the stress of deployment and posttraumatic stress disorder.”

The next step for him is to complete a five-week officer training session, which he hopes to do next summer.

He will continue pursuit of a Master of Divinity at Mount St. Mary’s in preparation for his ordination in 2022.

After ordination, he will be assigned to priestly ministry for three years in the Charlotte diocese.

Then he will be eligible for active-duty

OUR PARISHESI

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Help support tomorrow’s priests today College seminary needs $2.9M to reach goal

PHOTO PROVIDED

(From left) Seminarian Darren Balkey, who is studying at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary in Cincinnati, takes his oath of office and receives a commission to the U.S. Navy. Pictured with him are Father David Sunberg, former chaplain and retired Army captain; fellow seminarians Deacon Edward Hoffmann (Army first lieutenant) and Deacon Michael Kapolka (Air Force second lieutenant), and U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer Gregory Perpignan. service as a U.S. Navy chaplain. At that point, he could be assigned to a Navy, Marine Corps or Coast Guard unit, shepherding service members and their families.

The Navy requests 250 Catholic chaplains based on the number of activeduty men and women and their families in all of these branches combined, but there are currently fewer than 50 Catholic priests available as active-duty chaplains.

In addition to Ensign Balkey, Mount St. Mary’s has three other seminarians preparing for service as military chaplains, one for the U.S. Army and two

for the U.S. Air Force.

The Archdiocese for the Military Services is entrusted with the pastoral care of 1.8 million Catholics in the U.S. and around the world. It is the sole endorsing agent recognized under U.S. law and the Department of Defense to endorse Catholic priests to minister in the U.S. Armed Forces and Department of Veterans Affairs.

Besides receiving the AMS endorsement, priests must meet all the military requirements to be commissioned as officers.

— Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology

PHOTOS BY ROLANDO RIVAS AND PATRICIA L. GUILFOYLE

New crucifix adorns sanctuary of Mary, Help of Christians Basilica BELMONT — A new crucifix has been installed in the sanctuary of Mary, Help of Christians Basilica. Helmut Deussen, a former member of Belmont Abbey College’s Board of Trustees and benefactor of the college and the monastery, donated the crucifix in memory of his wife Elizabeth. The crucifix, installed by Dixon Studio in Staunton, Va., features a corpus carved by the Ferdinand Stuflesser Studio in Italy. The crucifix replaces the one suspended over the altar when the church was renovated in 1964-’65. That crucifix was an abstract metal sculpture of the Risen Christ in front of the cross. Following growing interest among the Belmont Abbey monastic community to replace the 1960s image with a more traditional crucifix, the monks decided to move forward with a new crucifix in 2019. The completed corpus and cross arrived at the abbey Dec. 1 and was blessed by Abbot Placid Solari and his confreres. They celebrated the installation of the new crucifix during Solemn Vespers Dec. 4.

CHARLOTTE — One thousand people in the Diocese of Charlotte have stepped forward so far to fund the St. Joseph College Seminary capital campaign.

To date, $17.1 million has been raised towards the $20 million goal for the new college seminary building project that was completed this fall.

A broad communication campaign continues to keep parishioners apprised of the status of the fundraising campaign, appealing to all of the faithful to play a part in raising the additional $2.9 million in pledges by Dec. 31.

In a Dec. 14 letter, Bishop Jugis asked the faithful to prayerfully consider a three-year pledge to help fund the college seminary.

“Your pledge is an essential building block in our quest to form many more good and holy priests for the Diocese of Charlotte. Let us promote and cultivate priestly vocations to serve our joyful and growing diocesan family,” he said.

With Gothic architecture and brickwork inspired by nearby Belmont Abbey, where in 1876 Benedictine monks planted the roots of Catholicism in western North Carolina, the two-story, 30,000-square-foot building includes 40 dorm rooms, a chapel, classroom and library, faculty offices, a refectory and kitchen, and a picturesque cloister walk where students can meditate and pray.

Twenty-seven men currently call St. Joseph College Seminary home.

The aim of the college seminary program is to nurture local vocations among the parishes and families in the diocese, close to home, before the men graduate and go on to major seminaries located elsewhere to complete their priestly formation and return for ordination to serve in the diocese’s growing parishes.

“As we journey through this season of Advent, preparing for the birthday of Jesus Christ and the celebration of Christmas, I ask for your prayerful consideration in this matter,” Bishop Jugis said.

“Our Lord has given us an extraordinary gift of a large number of young men who are discerning a vocation to the priesthood. We have gone from 16 men in formation to 41 in only five years, with 27 of these men in the first four years of their formation, the college seminary phase. In response, we are creating a place that will allow these young men to discern their vocations close to home, and close to you and the parishes that they will one day serve as priests,” he noted.

— SueAnn Howell, senior reporter

Support the St. Joseph College Seminary campaign Pledge financial support for the college seminary by returning the pledge card included with the Dec. 14 letter from Bishop Jugis or go online to www.stjcs.org. Donations can also be mailed to: St. Joseph College Seminary, c/o Development, 22 Arctus Ave., Mount Holly, NC 28120. Questions? Contact Fredrik Akerblom, St. Joseph College Seminary development director, at 704-302-6386 or fakerblom@stjcs.org.

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catholicnewsherald.com | December 18, 2020 OUR PARISHES

Deacon Pat Devine, beloved airport chaplain, passes away CHARLOTTE — Deacon Patrick Joseph Devine III, aged 73, died Thursday, Dec. 10, 2020, at his home with his loving wife Michele and four children by his side.

He was preceded in death by his mother Rose Mary McKeown and father Patrick Joseph Devine II; his sister Mary Joan; his brother Michael; and 4 unnamed siblings.

He was born July Devine 27, 1947, and served honorably in the U.S. Navy from 1966 to 1970. He earned a Bachelor of Arts from Syracuse University (Class of 1975). An active man to be around, he loved to ski, golf, do woodworking, and travel. He always called his family his greatest achievement in life of which he was most proud.

Deacon Devine was ordained a permanent deacon for the Diocese of Albany, N.Y., on Oct. 4, 1986. During his 34 years of ministry as a permanent deacon, he also served for the dioceses of Orange and San Jose, Calif.

After relocating to the Charlotte area, Deacon Devine worked part-time for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and retired from the Transportation Security Administration Because of the time he spent at the Charlotte-Douglas International Airport, he asked the Diocese of Charlotte for an assignment in airport ministry. Soon afterwards, Deacon Devine was granted faculties and

assigned as an airport chaplain.

Deacon Devine was a gentle and caring person who never met a stranger. He is going to be missed greatly by his family, friends and fellow airport chaplains, and all those who have traveled through the airport will always remember his kind words and helping hand.

Those left behind to cherish Deacon Devine’s memories and carry on his legacy are his loving wife of almost 52 years, Michele Denis Devine; his four children: son Jason Devine, and daughters Jennifer Hassing, Patricia Freeman and Janice von Trapp; and 13 grandchildren: Patrick Ryan, Dillon Michael and Connor Jay Hassing; Jayda Rose and Joseph Maximus Devine; Marcus Brian, Johanna Michele Tizita, Grayson Frank Joseph and Devin Patrick Freeman; and Reilly Rose, Reagan Michele, Ryan Harper and Jude Phillip von Trapp.

Interment was at Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain. A celebration of life event will be held at a later date when pandemic restrictions allow.

Deacon Devine, a supporter of St. Jude’s Hospital, has always believed no child should ever suffer from cancer and request that donations be made to St Jude’s in lieu of flowers. Online condolences may be shared at www. mcewenpinevillechapel.com.

McEwen Funeral Service – Pineville Chapel was in charge of the arrangements.

— Catholic News Herald

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Mercy Sister Mary Julia Godwin passes away aged 92 BELMONT — Mercy Sister Mary Julia Godwin died Thursday, Dec. 10, 2020, in Marian Center, Sacred Heart Convent, Belmont. She was 92 and had been a Sister of Mercy for 72 years. During her years in ministry, she taught in Charlotte, Gastonia, Asheville and Salisbury.

Sister Julia was born in Benson, N.C., the daughter of Enoch Godwin Sr. and Florence Inez Smith. The fifth of 15 children – nine girls and six boys – she was a descendent of the Godwin Godwin and Monk families who embraced Catholicism in Newton Grove in 1871. Julia attended Holy Redeemer School in Newton Grove and Meadow High School in Benson. She then earned a baccalaureate degree in social studies from Belmont Abbey College.

Sister Julia entered the Sisters of Mercy in 1949 and chose as her ring motto “Jesus Through Mary.” She studied nursing at Mercy Hospital for two years and then moved on to education. She taught at Sacred Heart Grade School, Salisbury; St. Gabriel’s and St. Patrick’s, Charlotte; St. Michael School, Gastonia; St. Eugene, Asheville; St. Agnes, Greenport, Long

Island, N.Y,; and Holy Angels, Belmont.

In addition, Sister Julia spent several years at Nazareth Orphanage in Raleigh.

Her ministries at Holy Angels and in the orphanage meant the most to her.

She maintained her friendships with the residents of the orphanage to this day.

A people’s person, Sister Julia never met a stranger. She loved community service, visiting the sick and working with the poor. And she loved to travel. Her favorite place to relax was in the mountains at Lake Lure. In retirement she wrote the history of Nazareth Orphanage and the genealogy of her family. She was known as a quiet person who prayed quietly and worked with others quietly. Mostly she was known for her friendships and service to others.

Sister Julia is survived by the Sisters of Mercy; her brothers, Anthony and George Godwin of Benson; and her sisters, Anna Dupree of Raleigh, Agnes Keating of Holden Beach, and Frances Fisher of Southport.

Interment was at Belmont Abbey Cemetery. All services were held privately because of the pandemic.

Memorials may be sent to the Sisters of Mercy, Sacred Heart Convent, Belmont, NC 28012.

McLean Funeral Home in Belmont was in charge of the arrangements.

— Catholic News Herald

Holy Angels celebrates 65th year with special night of light BELMONT — Holy Angels is celebrating its 65th anniversary with a powerful and inspirational luminary display, “Celebrate Joy, Celebrate Life: Share the Light.”

The drive-through Share the Light event will connect the community with Holy Angels, allowing supporters to drive through campus illuminated with candles, angels and a live progressive Nativity scene with roles played by Holy Angels residents.

The special event will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20, at Holy Angels’ campus, located at 6600 Wilkinson Blvd. in Belmont.

“In this year filled with so many struggles and darkness, we wanted to help shine the light and be a beacon of hope for our community,” said Holy Angels’ President/CEO Regina Moody. “This is a perfect time for us to begin our 65 years of joy celebration!”

The community is invited to honor or memorialize a loved one, friend or anyone else who made an impact in their lives. A donation of $25 for each luminary tribute or $250 for an Angel tribute with the name of the person or group is a special way to share light and joy this season.

“We all know nurses, teachers and other front line workers who went above and beyond this year to help and keep our country running,” Moody said. “Let’s

celebrate these extraordinary heroes with a luminary or angel in their honor.”

Holy Angels will invite the people being honored or the families of loved ones being memorialized to this first luminary display.

These luminaries, angels and signs will be placed throughout the campus.

“We really hope this will make a lasting impression on our community, and becomes an annual tradition for many families for years to come,” said Moody.

The event is being held on what would have been the 65th birthday of Maria Morrow, Holy Angels’ first resident and the birthday of Holy Angels itself. In 1955, a desperate and overwhelmed mother left her infant child in the permanent care of the Sisters of Mercy. Medical professionals believed she wouldn’t live past three months old because of her medical disabilities. Maria left a remarkable legacy in her 54 years of life. Holy Angels now provides residential services and innovative programs for a number of children and adults with intellectual developmental disabilities, many with delicate medical conditions.

For more information, go to www. holyangelsnc.org/luminaries.

— Shawn Flynn, Holy Angels’ vice president of community relations

Let’s keep talking.

December 18, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com

OUR PARISHESI

Talks on transubstantiation aim to deepen understanding of our faith PATRICIA L. GUILFOYLE EDITOR

CHARLOTTE — The mystery of transubstantiation – the changing of bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Christ during the consecration at Mass – is a truth many Catholics find difficult to grasp.

In fact, a 2019 Pew Research Center poll found that less than onethird of self-described Catholics in the U.S. believe in or know about this core doctrine of our faith.

This was a wake-up call to members of the Charlotte region of the Order of Malta – part of Solari a worldwide lay religious order whose charisms include defense of the Catholic faith as well as care for the sick and the poor.

“Obviously, we have a lot of defending to do,” said Knight of Malta Rick Menze.

The order is hosting periodic educational talks to deepen people’s understanding of the Catholic faith and the ability to explain it to others. First among their efforts has been two talks by Benedictine Abbot Placid Solari of Belmont Abbey, chaplain for the order’s Charlotte region.

Abbot Placid’s talks via video conference dove into this teaching, focusing on Church documents including St. Paul VI’s 1965 encyclical “Mysterium Fidei” (“The Mystery of Faith”), Pope Benedict XVI’s

2007 apostolic exhortation “Sacramentum Caritatis” (“The Sacrament of Charity”); and information from the pivotal Council of Trent in the 16th century.

The Eucharist is the real Presence of Christ, Abbot Placid explained, and that has consistently remained Church teaching since Jesus first spoke the words of consecration at the last Supper and directed the Apostles to “Do this in memory of Me.” How the elements of bread and wine change into His Body and Blood is a mystery that the Church best describes as “transubstantiation”: we still see the physical appearance of bread and wine, but the underlying substance is transformed into a new reality seen only through the eyes of faith.

The bread and wine are not mere symbols, Abbot Placid noted. “The bread and wine cease to exist, and the Body and Blood become present.”

The word “transubstantiation” derives from ancient philosophy, and refers to the concept that something has a fundamental essence (“substance”) separate from its physical properties (called “accidents” or “species”). For example, a chair remains a chair (its substance) no matter whether it’s made of wood, metal or any other material (its accidents).

Through the Eucharistic prayer spoken by the priest – acting in the person of Christ, the bread is changed by the efficacy of the word of Christ and by the action of the Holy Spirit.

The Apostles accepted this truth and

the early Church Fathers reflected on its meaning, and through the centuries the Church has sought to understand it more deeply – yet ultimately the transformation of bread and wine into Christ’s Body and Blood “goes beyond the laws of nature,” Abbot Placid said.

Learning more about this central tenet of our faith is important for every Catholic, he urged. “We accept by faith, but we seek to understand.”

“I always accepted by faith that in the Eucharist, it was the changing of bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Christ. But the presentation by Abbot Placid using the term ‘transubstantiation’ helped explain the process and helped me focus on the importance of the sacredness of this moment during each Mass,” said Kaye McGarry, Dame of Malta. “It helped deepen my belief in the meaning of the Eucharist.”

More online At www.catholicnewsherald.com: Find links to the Church documents referenced by Abbot Placid Solari, including St. Paul VI’s 1965 encyclical “Mysterium Fidei” (“The Mystery of Faith”), Pope Benedict XVI’s 2007 apostolic exhortation “Sacramentum caritatis” (“The Sacrament of Charity”); and documents from the Council of Trent.

At www.therealpresence.org: Read more about the Eucharist as “the source and summit of our faith,” stories of Eucharistic miracles, tips for participating in Eucharistic Adoration and much more

Glory to God in the highest; and on earth peace to men of good will.

Luke 2:14

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‘The Council of Trent summarizes the Catholic faith by declaring: ‘Because Christ our Redeemer said that it was truly His Body that he was offering under the species of bread, it has always been the conviction of the Church of God, and this holy Council now declares again, that by the consecration of the bread and wine there takes place a change of the whole substance of the bread into the substance of the Body of Christ our Lord and of the whole substance of the wine into the substance of His Blood. This change the holy Catholic Church has fittingly and properly called transubstantiation.’”

— Catechism of the Catholic Church 1376

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THE CATHOLIC SHOPPE At Belmont Abbey College “That in all things God be Glorified”

Please pray for the following deacons who died during the month of December:

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catholicnewsherald.com | December 18, 2020 OUR PARISHES

BLOOD FROM PAGE 2

with ruthless efficiency all the baby boys who might have a claim to the position (Matt. 2:1-18). The Holy Innocents did not consciously know the cause for which they died, but the blood they shed was quite possibly the only blood shed by martyrs that directly protected God’s very life.

Lay Catholic apologist Frank Sheed once wrote of the Holy Innocents in “To Know Christ Jesus”: “There is anguish for us, twenty centuries after, in thinking of the slain babies and their parents. For the babies the agony was soon over; in the next world they would know whom they had died to save and for all eternity would have that glory. For the parents, the pain would

have lasted longer; but at death they, too, must have found that there was a special sense in which God was in their debt, as He had never been indebted to any. They and their children were the only ones who ever agonized in order to save God’s life.”

The Christmas octave closes on Jan. 1, with the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. This was once known as the Feast of the Circumcision of Christ. According to Jewish law, a newborn boy must be circumcised on the eighth day after his birth. As the child of observant Jews, Jesus would have been circumcised on the eighth day after his birth. Sheed speculated that Christ’s circumcision was probably performed by St. Joseph since to do so was “a father’s privilege.”

This blog post cannot delve into all of the history and meaning behind circumcision as practiced by the Jewish people. Suffice

to say here that it was a sign of the covenant between God and the Jewish people. Since the covenant was patriarchal, it was fitting that the sign involve the male generative organ. But perhaps Christians might speculate further, and wonder if there is special significance to Jesus having undergone the rite.

Because He was circumcised, the Infant Jesus suffered and bled. His blood was mingled with all of the seemingly senseless shedding of blood by innocents down through the centuries to follow.

The shedding of innocent blood, even by those unaware of the meaning of their sacrifice, can have value because of the innocent blood shed by God the Newborn Babe.

Of course, it also prefigured the definitive sacrifice Christ made upon the cross. As the Venerable Fulton Sheen points out in

“Life of Christ,” Jesus Christ was the only man in human history who was born to be killed. He did not come into this world to live as do all other men; He specifically came to die so that all other men might have eternal life: “The story of every human life begins with birth and ends with death. In the person of Christ, however, it was His death that was first and His life that was last. ... It was not so much that His birth cast a shadow on His life and thus led to His death; it was rather that the cross was first, and cast its shadow back to His birth.”

And that is what Christmas is all about.

HOUSEHOLD

with His presence.

“May He always be here among the residents; may He nurture their love for each other. May He share in their joys and comfort them in their sorrows. Inspired by the teachings of Jesus and His example, may they seek to make their new home a dwelling place of love diffusing far and wide the goodness of Christ.”

Funding for the project includes a $9.3 million allocation of federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits syndicated by RBC Community Investments and a $250,000 loan from North Carolina. Both funding sources will be administered by the N.C. Housing Finance Agency. Additional funding included a $1.75 million loan from the Charlotte Housing Trust Fund. The diocese provided the land at a substantially reduced cost.

The housing corporation co-owns and co-developed the building with Douglas and Schaumber development companies.

Other project partners include Progress Design Studio, architect; Progress Carolina, general contractor; Wells Fargo, construction financing; Freddie Mac and Prudential, debt financing.

Excel Property Management manages Guardian Angel Villa and is accepting applicants.

FROM PAGE 3

household size and apartment size.

During his blessing, Bishop Jugis was accompanied by Monsignor Patrick Winslow, president of the housing corporation and vicar general and chancellor of the diocese, and Adriel Cardenas, executive director of the housing corporation.

The bishop began his blessing of the facility from the chapel on the third floor, praying, “When Jesus Christ took flesh of the Blessed Virgin Mary, He made His home with us. Let us now pray that He will enter this residence, this home, and bless it

It’s not too late!

You can still help the mothers and babies at Room At The Inn with a tax deductible end of year gift.

MICHELLE ARNOLD is a former apologist at Catholic Answers, an extensive online source for information about Church teaching. Searchable articles, FAQs, podcasts, radio broadcasts, videos and more are online at www.catholic. com.

Get information Excel Property Management is accepting applications to Guardian Angel Villa. To apply, contact Excel Property Management at contact@excelpropertymanagement.com or call 919-878-0522, ext. 265. All are welcome to apply.

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Rely on the Knights of Columbus to protect your family’s future.

Bob Gordon Field Agent

Thank you for making Room At The Inn in 2020.

We wish you and those you hold dear a blessed 2021!

Give online today at www.roominn.org/donate

516-551-7838 robert.gordon@kofc.org

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December 18, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

Your gift this holiday season will help those most in need within our diocese.

Gifts to Catholic Charities make a life-changing difference every day. Your gift during this season will provide support to children and families who come to us seeking help in Asheville, Charlotte, Greensboro, Lenoir, Murphy and WinstonSalem. Many of our neighbors find themselves poor, vulnerable and less fortunate.

With your help, we can work together to bring hope for a new tomorrow.

“The Gospel calls us to be close to the poor and forgotten, and to give them real hope.” —Pope Francis

Change a Life. Make a Difference. Donate Now. Your donation this Advent will bring the Church’s ministry of charity to those in need.

Catholic Charities, Central Processing Office 1123 S. Church Street, Charlotte, NC 28203 800-227-7261 ccdoc.org/donate Thank you for your generosity.

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Diácono Enedino Aquino

Guadalupana trajo consuelo a comunidad golpeada por la pandemia Palabras de la Virgen “¿No estoy yo aquí que soy tu madre?” resonaron en miles de corazones

Navidad 2020

M

is queridos hermanos en Cristo: Primero que nada, desearles una Feliz Navidad y un Próspero Año Nuevo 2021, y decirles que a veces pasamos desapercibidos los detalles de la preparación para llegar a un gran acontecimiento que es la venida de Nuestro Señor y solo vivimos la Navidad. Hay que vivir profundamente el tiempo previo a su llegada: Adviento.

Por eso, quiero continuar hablando del inicio del Nuevo Año Litúrgico que comenzó con el tiempo de Adviento y hacer un recorrido por este caminar hacia nuestra salvación y encuentro con Nuestro Señor.

El 29 de noviembre de 2020, con el inicio del primer domingo de Adviento, la invitación de Dios fue de estar velando y preparados porque no sabemos cuándo llegará el momento. Despierta, no te duermas en tus laureles, Dios está en camino y quiere un encuentro contigo.

El 6 de diciembre, segundo domingo de adviento, preparen el camino, Jesús llega, enderecen sus caminos. En este punto, Juan el Bautista nos invita a la conversión, a preguntarnos qué hay que cambiar en nuestras vidas. Dios está más cerca que nunca.

El 13 de diciembre celebramos el tercer domingo de adviento en la alegría (Gaudete). Es Juan el Bautista el que continúa dando testimonio de ser la voz que grita en el desierto “enderecen el camino del Señor”, como anuncia el profeta Isaías con mas insistencia, grita a un cambio de vida: ¿lo escuchaste o pasó desapercibido?

El 20 de diciembre, en el cuarto domingo de Adviento, todavía estaremos a tiempo de disponer el corazón y abrirnos a la venida de Nuestro Señor Jesucristo en un pesebre. La figura de Nuestra Madre María en la Anunciación, en ese ‘si’ amoroso, nos invita a nosotros a confiar y nos da la pauta para dar también nosotros un ‘si’ y confiar en Nuestro Señor.

Y llegada esa noche, la noche más hermosa, los invito a celebrar la fiesta de Navidad de tal manera que pueda traer un rayo de esperanza en la difícil situación en la que nos encontramos hoy.

En medio de esta pandemia sigue habiendo Luz porque Él, Emmanuel, está contínuamente viviendo entre nosotros. Vino ayer, viene hoy y vendrá mañana.

Eso es lo que significa este tiempo de Adviento en una vida llena de esperanza en la venida de Jesús en esta Navidad y la familia reunida alrededor del pesebre confiando en que el Espíritu Santo nos dará la capacidad de encender una multitud de pequeñas luces, como un árbol de navidad, que difundirán la luz de la esperanza entre nuestros hermanos y hermanas que esperan un gran milagro y que luchan por sobrevivir con dignidad.

Lo que quiero decir es que en esta Navidad dispongas el corazón, que toda tu vida, tu hacer y decir, vayan en pos de los demás para ayudar al necesitado dentro y fuera de tu familia.

Con la Navidad llega un Reino de amor y de paz. Que podamos decir ¡Feliz Navidad! y, en medio de nuestras dificultades, atrevámonos a ser solidarios para, con la ayuda del Espíritu Santo, vivir una verdadera alegría navideña y podernos abrazar a la distancia.

EL DIÁCONO ENEDINO AQUINO es coordinador del Ministerio Hispano del Vicariato de Greensboro.

CÉSAR HURTADO REPORTERO

CHARLOTTE — Con fiestas sobrias en comparación a las realizadas en años anteriores, la comunidad católica latina de Charlotte celebró los 489 años de las apariciones de la Virgen María a San Juan Diego en el cerro Tepeyac.

Novenas, mañanitas y Misas solemnes se llevaron a cabo en varios templos de toda la diócesis, siempre respetando las indicaciones gubernamentales y de los CDC respecto al mantenimiento de la distancia social, número de participantes, uso de mascarillas, control de temperatura corporal y presencia de estaciones de higiene con alcohol en gel y otros medios de desinfección.

Nuestra Señora de la Merced en Winston Salem inició las festividades de la Virgen con una Misa el 8 de diciembre en honor a la Inmaculada Concepción. El 12, día central de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, celebró sendas Misas a las 12 y 7 p.m. a las que solo pudieron asistir, por límite de capacidad debido a las restricciones sanitarias, 165 personas en el templo y 75 en la cafetería.

La Iglesia Inmaculada en Hendersonville, realizó una vigilia por la fiesta de la Virgen Morena el viernes 11 de diciembre a las 6 de la tarde en el templo. Al igual, Santa Juana de Arco en Candler llevó a cabo una Misa de vigilia el mismo día pero por la noche.

La Iglesia Sagrado Corazón en Salisbury tuvo un programa el día 12 que incluyó Rosario, Mañanitas, Misa y procesión y presencia artística de la comunidad que ofrendó cantos y poemas a la Morenita del Tepeyac.

Por su parte, en la Iglesia Santa Teresa en Mooresville se festejó con una Novena virtual del 4 al 12 de diciembre, Misa de vigilia con mañanitas el viernes 11 y Misa el sábado 12.

El vicariato de Greensboro debió cancelar su tradicional gran fiesta en un auditorio de la ciudad y se realizó Santo Rosario y Misa en Santa María, en Greensboro, el 12 por la tarde.

Nuestra Señora de los Caminos en Thomasville y Santo Niño en Reidsville celebraron con Rosario y Misa en horario matutino y nocturno, respectivamente.

Divino Redentor, iglesia del vicariato de Boone que regularmente realiza una gran celebración con Rosario, vigilia y mañanitas, decidió cancelar todas las celebraciones debido a la expansión de la pandemia de COVID-19 en la región. Sin embargo, realizaron Misas los días 11 y 12.

En Monroe, el Padre Benjamín Roberts, pastor de la parroquia Nuestra Señora de Lourdes, explicó en un mensaje a los fieles que debido a la pandemia las celebraciones no podían ser las de costumbre. Pese a todo, se programó cánticos, lectura de la historia de la aparición, Rosario y Misa el sábado 12 desde las 8 de la mañana en la gruta mariana.

Nuestra Señora de las Américas en Biscoe recibió a la Virgen Peregrina el viernes 11 por la tarde con un grupo parroquial de danza azteca, seguido por cantos guadalupanos con mariachi, Misa, Rosario y mañanitas. El sábado 12 las mañanitas fueron amenizadas por la Banda Estrellas de Guanajuato, el grupo de danza azteca, cantos con la Banda La Grande del Sur, concluyendo con una Misa solemne al mediodía.

El mismo 12, Nuestra Señora de Anunciación en Albemarle realizó sus mañanitas a la Virgen de Guadalupe, además de una celebración en horas de la noche.

EN CHARLOTTE

La parroquia Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe en Charlotte celebró en su local de la calle Tuckaseegee. Los festejos iniciaron el viernes 11 por la noche con Rosario, danzas y cantos, la representación de las apariciones marianas en el

CÉSAR HURTADO | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Cientos de fieles observaron los protocolos de seguridad al asistir a los festejos presenciales por la Virgen de Guadalupe realizados en diversas iglesias de la diócesis. cerro Tepeyac y un desfile de un gran bosque de banderas que precedió a la celebración de la Santa Misa.

A medianoche, con Mariachis, se abrió paso la música tradicional mexicana cantando las Mañanitas.

A las 6:30 de la mañana, un nuevo grupo de artistas, danzantes y coros reanudaron el homenaje a la Santísima Virgen de Guadalupe que se extendió hasta el mediodía, cuando se celebró una segunda Misa.

En ella, durante la homilía, el P. Gregorio Gay, párroco, recordó las palabras de la Virgen de Guadalupe a San Juan Diego: “¿no estoy yo aquí que soy tu madre?”.

Estas, dijo, siguen siendo las palabras de la Virgen a cada uno de nosotros, los creyentes en su hijo Jesucristo, “y especialmente en situaciones difíciles”. Juan Diego, explicó, estaba preocupado por su vida, la pobreza y abandono de su pueblo, “y sin embargo las palabras de la Virgen le dieron esperanza”.

“Son palabras que tienen que sonar en nuestros corazones, especialmente en los tiempos que nosotros estamos viviendo”, dijo el P. Gregorio, refiriéndose a la pandemia que ha traído “mucho sufrimiento, mucho dolor para diferentes familias, enfermedad y muerte de seres queridos”, por lo que necesitamos escuchar esas palabras “para consolarnos, para tener la fuerza de enfrentar este ‘dragón’, este mal que se hace presente en nuestro mundo”, al igual que “las situaciones de injusticia contra las personas más humildes”.

“Nosotros estamos llamados a dar de nosotros mismos, al igual que la Virgen María, a pensar de las dificultades que vamos enfrentando y, de esta manera, ser fortalecidos por la gracia del Señor”, subrayó.

Al término de la Misa se reanudaron los festejos y a la una de la tarde más artistas se unieron al agasajo que prosiguió con un Rosario y más cantos.

A las 5:30 de la tarde, una procesión a cargo de la comunidad de la calle North Tryon recorrió los terrenos parroquiales como antesala a la Misa de seis de la tarde.

Una nueva Misa, esta vez a las 8 de la noche, cerró el homenaje a la Morenita del Tepeyac.

Más online En t.ly/BmRK: Vea el festejo guadalupano organizado por la Iglesia Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe en Charlotte.

December 18, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

‘Una ocasión para alegrarse’ Iniciaron obras, una bendición de $21M para el Centro de Bellas Artes de MACS

CHARLOTTE — El Obispo Peter J. Jugis celebrará en la Catedral San Patricio las siguientes Misas que serán transmitidas ‘en vivo’ durante la presente temporada navideña: n Misa de Gallo, medianoche del jueves 24 de diciembre n Solemnidad de la Sagrada Familia de Jesús, María y José, Misa de 11 a.m. el domingo 27 de diciembre n Solemnidad de María, Santa Madre de Dios

COMO YO

CÉSAR HURTADO | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

El Obispo Peter Jugis, en el centro, flanqueado por Mercy Sister Paulette Williams, ex directora de Charlotte Catholic High School y el Dr. Greg Monroe, superintendente de las Escuelas Católicas, inicia la construcción del nuevo Centro de Bellas Artes MACS el 11 de diciembre. También aparecen (de izquierda a derecha) Monseñor Patrick Winslow, vicario general y canciller y el actual director de CCHS, Kurt Telford.

que hayamos llegado tan lejos y espero ver pronto concluidas las obras”.

Corsi agregó: “Estoy emocionada de que el sur de Charlotte tenga otro lugar para toda nuestra comunidad, para darles la bienvenida por una variedad de razones, para que los niños de toda nuestra comunidad tengan un lugar donde reunirse”.

Cindy Grim, cuyo difunto padre, Harry Grim, junto con Chuck Grace, estableció la fundación Charlotte Catholic High School, presenció el inicio de la construcción. Grim también fue parte del equipo de la campaña de financiamiento.

“Soy exalumna, mis hijos estudiaron aquí. Mucha gente trabajó en esto durante mucho tiempo. Es un maravilloso complemento a la escuela. Se siente realmente bien ver que esto se hace realidad”, dijo.

El edificio de dos pisos albergará un auditorio de 600 asientos y un espacio para presentaciones y exhibiciones de alta calidad para los estudiantes de MACS. También un estudio de arte, una sala de banda, sala de coros, sala de cerámica, sala de danza, laboratorio de fotografía digital, escenario y teatro.

Las clases de artes visuales y escénicas de CCHS se trasladarán al nuevo centro, liberando espacio en la escuela para aulas, sala de levantamiento de pesas, lucha libre y más.

El Centro de Bellas Artes estará ubicado detrás de la escuela secundaria, donde se ubicaba un estacionamiento de grava.

La construcción comenzará en enero de 2021 y se completará antes del inicio del año escolar 2022-2023.

En sus palabras de cierre, el Obispo Jugis oró para que Dios “continúe bendiciendo todo lo que ocurre aquí, en este sitio, en el Centro de Bellas Artes y lleve a buen término todo lo que hacemos para mayor gloria y honor de Dios Todopoderoso”.

Más online En www.catholicnewsherald.com: Vea videos de los aspectos más destacados de la ceremonia de bendición e inicio de obras. También escuche lo que importantes líderes escolares dijeron sobre el proyecto.

Holy, Misa de 11 a.m. el viernes 1 de enero Por favor, tenga en cuenta que este año todas las Misas de Navidad en la catedral requieren reserva para la asistencia en persona debido a la capacidad reducida de asientos y los protocolos de seguridad por la pandemia.

Debido a la restricción de aforo en la catedral, las tres misas se transmitirán en vivo para que los fieles asistan virtualmente. Visite el canal YouTube de la Diócesis de Charlotte (www.youtube.com/DioceseofCharlotte) y suscríbase para recibir una alerta recordatoria antes que comiencen las transmisiones en vivo.

— SueAnn Howell, reportera senior

FE

N 13:34 UA

Obispo Jugis celebrará Misas que serán transmitidas en vivo durante esta temporada navideña

CHARLOTTE — El tema del XVI Congreso Eucarístico Anual ha sido anunciado por el Obispo Peter J. Jugis: “Como yo los he amado”, y ha sido tomado del HE AMADO S O Evangelio de San Juan, capítulo13, versículo 34.

En un tratado de San Agustín sobre San Juan, el santo explica las palabras de Jesús: “Un mandamiento 2021 nuevo les doy: que se Congreso Eucarístico amen los unos a los otros” (Tractate 65, 1-3: Diócesis de Charlotte CCL 36, 17 y 18 de490-492). septiembre San Agustín dice: “Este mandamiento que les da es nuevo, les dice el Señor Jesús a sus discípulos. Sin embargo, ¿no estaba contenido en la Ley Antigua, donde está escrito: ‘Amarás a tu prójimo como a ti mismo’? ¿Por qué el Señor lo llama nuevo cuando es claramente antiguo? ¿O el mandamiento es nuevo porque nos despoja de nuestro yo anterior y nos viste con el nuevo hombre? El amor, en efecto, renueva al hombre que escucha, o más bien obedece su mandato; pero solo ese amor que Jesús distinguió del amor natural por la calificación: ‘Como yo los he amado’”.

El santo continúa: “Este es el tipo de amor que nos renueva. Cuando amamos como Él nos amó, nos convertimos en hombres nuevos, herederos del nuevo pacto y voces de la nueva canción”.

“Este amor es el regalo del Señor que dijo: ‘Como yo los he amado, ustedes también deben amarse los unos a los otros’. Su objetivo al amarnos era entonces permitirnos amarnos unos a otros. Al amarnos, Él mismo, nuestro poderoso Señor, nos ha unido a todos como miembros de Su propio Cuerpo, unidos unos a otros por el tierno vínculo del amor”.

El Congreso Eucarístico se llevará a cabo del 17 al 18 de septiembre de 2021 en el Centro de Convenciones de Charlotte.

— SueAnn Howell, reportera senior –J

CHARLOTTE — El 11 de diciembre, acompañado por funcionarios de las escuelas católicas y diocesanas, el Obispo Peter J. Jugis colocó la primera piedra para la construcción del largamente esperado Centro de Bellas Artes de las Escuelas Católicas del Área de Charlotte (MACS). El proyecto de 47,719 pies cuadrados y $21 millones de dólares de inversión, estará ubicado en el campus de Charlotte Catholic High School (CCHS).

Para iniciar la fase de construcción se unieron al Obispo Jugis, Monseñor Patrick J. Winslow, vicario general y canciller de la diócesis; el Padre Timothy Reid, vicario de educación de las Escuelas Católicas y capellán de CCHS; el Dr. Greg Monroe, superintendente de Escuelas Católicas; la Hermana Paulette Williams, directora de CCHS de 1973 a 2000; y Kurt Telford, director actual de la escuela.

Durante la ceremonia, moderada debido a las restricciones por la pandemia de COVID-19, el Obispo Jugis condujo una oración, bendijo el terreno y ofreció sus comentarios.

Señalando que la celebración tenía lugar durante Adviento, antes del domingo de Gaudete, el obispo dijo que el inicio de las obras “es una ocasión para alegrarse... Es un proyecto que lleva muchas décadas en desarrollo. Así que, en el espíritu de esta temporada de Adviento, vivimos ahora con gozosa anticipación y expectativa de las cosas maravillosas que Dios nos permitirá lograr en este lugar en los años venideros”.

La Hermana Paulette Williams, directora de Charlotte Catholic High School por largos años, reflexionó sobre el tiempo que la comunidad escolar ha esperado por una instalación que sirva a sus exitosos y crecientes programas de Bellas Artes.

“Aquí estamos hoy por los padres que han sido parte de esta escuela”, dijo. “Los padres y exalumnos están haciendo que esto suceda hoy. Gracias por ser parte de un sueño de 35 años hecho realidad hoy”.

MACS, la Oficina de Desarrollo de CCHS, la Oficina de Desarrollo de la Diócesis de Charlotte y la Oficina de Propiedades diocesanas colaboraron con el Centro de Bellas Artes, que prestará servicios a las nueve escuelas MACS y estará a disposición de la comunidad en general.

Desde que CCHS se trasladó a su ubicación actual en la calle Pineville-Matthews en 1995, los líderes escolares reconocieron la necesidad de contar con una instalación dedicada a las Bellas Artes. Especialmente a medida que han crecido los galardonados programas de coro, banda, teatro y artes visuales en las escuelas MACS, el espacio en CCHS se ha limitado.

“Es sorprendente que en un año en el que tantas cosas se han detenido y donde hemos visto muchas otras congeladas, sigamos avanzando sin miedo. Este es otro testimonio que seguimos adelante buscando la excelencia y, en última instancia, haciendo todo para la gloria de Dios”, dijo el superintendente de las escuelas católicas, Dr. Greg Monroe.

La última vez que se consideró un Centro de Bellas Artes en CCHS fue en 2011, cuando también se estaba planificando la renovación del estadio y el estacionamiento de la escuela secundaria. Estos proyectos se concretaron en 2015.

La campaña de recaudación ‘Expandiendo la visión, honrando la tradición’, que comenzó en marzo de 2019, recaudó más de $6 millones para la financiación del proyecto. Un aporte de capital de MACS financiará $15 millones del costo total proyectado en $21 millones.

Las directoras de la campaña de financiamiento, Tish Macuga y Carolyn Corsi, estuvieron presentes entre los asistentes a la ceremonia, que se mantuvo limitada debido a las restricciones por COVID-19.

“Me siento bendecida de haber podido llegar hoy y que estos niños puedan mostrar los talentos que Dios les ha dado en una instalación que los respalda”, dijo Macuga. “Estoy emocionada

Se anunció tema del Congreso Eucarístico 2021 L

SUEANN HOWELL REPORTERA SENIOR

11

Actualizaciones online En www.goeucharist.com: Obtenga información acerca del Congreso Eucarístico 2021, en inglés y español, conforme se vaya desarrollando.

Sus contribuciones al DSA en acción El Congreso Eucarístico de la diócesis está financiado en parte por sus contribuciones a la Campaña anual de Apoyo Diocesano.

Obtenga más información sobre la campaña del DSA y cómo puede hacer su contribución en www.charlottediocese.org/dsa.

FAMILIA

FRATERNIDAD

Caballeros de Colón

Considere unirse a los más de 2 millones de miembros de la organización fraternal católica más grande del mundo y registrándose en línea hoy en: www.kofc.org/es

12

catholicnewsherald.com | December 18, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

La Navidad y sus tradiciones Las Saturnalias o fiestas en honor a Saturno, dios de la agricultura y cosecha en la mitología romana, se celebraban entre los días 17 y 23 de diciembre. Hay referencias históricas de que en la Edad Media había grandes libertades en los templos. Por tanto, es muy probable que los Papas eligieran el 25 de diciembre para conmemorar el nacimiento de Jesús para que los fieles cristianos se apartaran de las celebraciones paganas del solsticio de invierno.

La Navidad venía así a ocupar el lugar que todavía llenaban esas fiestas saturnales y otras propias del invierno en Roma. Reinando Constantino el Grande, la Iglesia propuso que el 25 de diciembre se celebrara el nacimiento del Salvador por su coincidencia con la celebración romana del Sol Invictus.

En todo caso, en el año 345 d.c. el 25 era fiesta de Navidad en Occidente. En Oriente, sin embargo, la celebraban el 6 de enero, pero la influencia de San Juan Crisóstomo, padre de la Iglesia de Oriente y patriarca de Alejandría, y de San Gregorio Nacianceno, el teólogo, amigo de San Basilio, consiguió que adoptaran el 25 de diciembre.

DE SAN NICOLÁS A PAPÁ NOEL

San Nicolás fue obispo de Mira, Licia en el siglo IV. Sus reliquias parece que fueron trasladadas en 1087 a Bari, donde se conservan en un sarcófago del que emana un bálsamo al que se atribuyen efectos milagrosos.

Su fiesta se celebra el 6 de diciembre, es patrón de Rusia y Lorena, y muy popular en Rusia, Grecia, Italia, Alemania e Inglaterra, donde ha sido asimilado como

en cuevas o en las hendiduras de la Tierra.

Quizá ningún pueblo del mundo ha llegado a crear, en relación a la navidad, una cosa tan graciosa, tan popular, como los belenes.

EL ÁRBOL DE NAVIDAD

FOTO CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

Al parecer fue San Francisco de Asís quien realizó la primera representación del nacimiento de Jesús. Después, Santa Clara la difundió por los conventos franciscanos de Italia, lo que contribuyó a la extensión del pesebre representado por seres vivos o figuras en otras latitudes del mundo. su Papá Noel, ese personaje legendario de barba blanca, vestido de rojo y con capucha.

En Estados Unidos se convirtió en Santa Claus. En el Mediterráneo, San Nicolás sustituyó en las fiestas y creencias populares a Poseidón, rey de los mares y dios de los terremotos de la mitología clásica.

LOS REYES MAGOS

El 6 de enero, en Oriente sólo se celebraba la Epifanía, es decir, el nacimiento, adoración de los Reyes Magos y bautismo.

En Occidente la fiesta era el nacimiento, el 25 de diciembre. Con los años, Occidente adoptó la Epifanía y Oriente la Navidad.

Según la tradición popular, tres magos

reyes de Oriente, tal vez de Arabia, fueron a llevarle regalos a Jesús, recién nacido en Belén. En España e Italia existe la costumbre de obsequiar a los niños con juguetes en memoria de los dones consistentes en oro, incienso y mirra ofrecidos por los Reyes a Jesús. En Italia, la bruja Befana entra sobre su escoba por la chimenea de las casas y sólo hace regalos a los niños que se han portado bien.

En Bélgica, Holanda y Francia los regalos se entregan el 6 de diciembre, día de San Nicolás. En el resto de los países occidentales son Santa Claus o Papá Noel quienes los reparten, pero el 24 de diciembre. En el mundo oriental es San Basilio el encargado de traer los regalos el 1 de enero.

EL BELÉN

El Belén o nacimiento es la representación del nacimiento de Jesús en Belén por medio de figuras.

Parece que fue San Francisco de Asís quien realizó la primera representación.

Después, Santa Clara la difundió por los conventos franciscanos de Italia y posteriormente la propia orden contribuyó a la extensión del pesebre representado por seres vivos o figuras.

Durante la Edad Media y el Renacimiento era costumbre representar escenas de Navidad en las iglesias. De ambas tradiciones arranca la de los belenes actuales con sus figuras de madera, yeso, plomo, barro o cartón. España, con su expansión, lo llevó al Nuevo Mundo.

La idea del belén como cueva o caverna donde nació Cristo encuentra similitudes en otras religiones donde los dioses nacen

El árbol de Navidad se inserta en el ancestral culto a los árboles. En numerosos mitos, los árboles, dotados de alma, aparecen como residencia de los dioses, especialmente de las ninfas protectoras de los bosques.

El árbol de Navidad en la actualidad es un abeto, un pino o un acebo que se adorna e ilumina. La iluminación del árbol significa la claridad frente al mortecino sol invernal.

Una leyenda cuenta que un abeto recorrió muchas millas para llegar la noche de navidad a Belén, donde habían sido convocadas todas las criaturas, incluidos los árboles. El abeto llegó muy cansado porque tuvo que atravesar muchos países y dificultades. Además, era pequeño y apenas podía asomarse entre los árboles más frondosos. Pero de repente comenzó una lluvia de estrellas sobre sus marchitas ramas que culminó con la estrella de navidad. Entonces el niño del pesebre lo miró, dedicó una sonrisa eterna y bendijo.

EL PANETÓN

El panettone o panetone, llamado también panetón, pan dulce o pan de pascua en países hispanohablantes, es un postre tradicional de Navidad en Milán, Italia.

Relleno con pasas, frutas confitadas o pepitas de chocolate, tiene forma de cúpula.

La masa se elabora con harina, levadura, huevos, mantequilla y azúcar.

Es muy popular en países de Latinoamérica y actualmente su venta se ha expandido a Estados Unidos. Se consume en tajadas y acompañado frecuentemente con chocolate caliente.

Hay muchas leyendas sobre su origen.

Según una de ellas, el postre nació hace más de cinco siglos, alrededor de 1490, cuando un joven aristócrata, Atellani de Futi, se enamoró de la hija de un pastelero de Milán. Para demostrarle su amor se hizo pasar por aprendiz de pastelero e inventó un pan azucarado con forma de cúpula a base de frutas confitadas y aroma de limón y naranja. Los milaneses empezaron a acudir en masa a la pastelería a pedir el “pan de Toni”, como se llamaba el ayudante, y de ahí vendría el nombre de “panettone”.

— Condensado de ACIPRENSA

Lecturas Diarias DIC. 20-26

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Foundation of the Diocese of Charlotte

Domingo (Cuarto Domingo de Adviento): 2 Samuel 7:1-5. 8b-12. 14a. 16, Romanos 16:25-27, Lucas 1:26-38; Lunes: Cantar 2:8-14, Lucas 1:39-45; Martes: 1 Samuel 1:24-28, Lucas 1:46-56; Miércoles: Malaquías 3:1-4. 23-24, Lucas 1:57-66; Jueves: 2 Samuel 7:1-5. 8-12. 14. 16, Lucas 1:67-79; Viernes (La Natividad del Señor): Isaías 52:7-10, Hebreos 1:1-6, Juan 1:1-18 o 1:1-5. 9-14; Sábado (San Esteban): Hechos 6:8-10, 7, 54-60, Mateo 10: 17-22

DIC. 27-ENE. 2

Domingo (La Sagrada Familia): Sirácide 3:3-7. 14-17a, Colosenses 3:12-21, Lucas 2:22-40x; Lunes (Santos Inocentes): 1 Juan 1:5-2. 2, Mateo 2:13-18; Martes: 1 Juan 2:3-11, Lucas 2:22-35; Miércoles: 1 Juan 2:12-17, Lucas 2:36-40; Jueves: 1 Juan 2:1821, Juan 1:1-18; Viernes (María Santísima

Madre de Dios): Números 6:22-27, Gálatas 4:4-7, Lucas 2:16-21; Sábado (Santos Basilio Magno y Gregorio Nacianzeno): 1 Juan 2:22-28, Juan 1:19-28

ENE. 3-9

Domingo (Epifanía del Señor): Isaías 60:1-6, Efesios 3:2-3a. 5-6, Mateo 2:1-12; Lunes (Santa Isabela): 1 Juan 3:22–4, 6, Mateo 4:12-17.

23-25; Martes (San Juan Nepomuceno Neumann): 1 Juan 4:7-10, Marcos 6:34-44; Miércoles: 1 Juan:4, 11-18, Marcos 6:45-52; Jueves: 1 Juan 4:19–5, 4, Lucas 4:1422; Viernes: 1 Jun 5:5-13, Lucas 5:12-16; Sábado: 1 Juan 5:14-21, Juan 3:22-30

Our schools

December 18, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

Christ the King High’s campaign pledges surpass $4.75M HUNTERSVILLE — Christ the King High School has reached another milestone in its “Grounded in Faith – Building our Future” capital campaign to build a new Athletic & Activity Complex, as pledges recently surpassed $4.75 million.

“Our goal for this November was to raise an additional $500,000 in new pledges. The effort culminated in Giving Tuesday and we were able to raise over $518,000 in just a few short weeks. The community support for this project has been overwhelming and surpassed even our highest expectations,” said Principal Dr. Carl Semmler.

The project excitement was fueled by the engagement of a contractor this summer and reimagined drawings for the new complex, which will seat more than 690 spectators and will include men’s and women’s locker rooms for both home and visiting teams, and coach and trainer offices. A full-sized stage, which will include lighting and sound systems, will be built to accommodate student performances, school-wide liturgies and awards ceremonies.

More than 250 families have pledged to the campaign, including alumni, current and future families, as well as graduates, grandparents and community supporters of Catholic education.

“Witnessing the Christ the King community rally together, once again, to get this project across the finish line is truly humbling,” stated Art and Georgette McMahon, committee co-chairs. “What is even more amazing, and can’t be measured today, is the positive impact on the lives of future generations of CTK students.”

Construction is scheduled to begin next summer, and is projected to take approximately 10-12 months.

Work continues as additional funds of approximately $1 million are needed for the next phase, which includes a pavilion to serve as the new main entrance, and will include concessions, ticket office, public restrooms and fitness center.

“The CTK community has done extraordinary work with this capital campaign including the staff, the volunteer leaders and the donors.

We celebrate that construction is expected to start next summer and at the same time we encourage others who believe in the mission of CTK to make a pledge to support the next phase as we continue to raise funds.,” said Jim Kelley, diocesan director of development.

Information about the “Grounded in Faith – Building Our Future” capital campaign and how you can help is online at www.ctkchs.org.

Questions? Contact Semmler at 704799-4400 or email CTKCampaign@ ctkchs.net.

— Christ The King High School

13

‘An occasion to rejoice’ Ground broken, blessed for $21 million MACS Fine Arts Center SUEANN HOWELL SENIOR REPORTER

CHARLOTTE — Flanked by diocese and school officials, Bishop Peter Jugis broke ground Dec. 11 for a long-awaited fine arts center for Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools. The $21 million, 47,719-square-foot MACS Fine Arts Center will be located on the campus of Charlotte Catholic High School.

Joining Bishop Jugis to turn over the dirt and kick off construction were Monsignor Patrick Winslow, vicar general and chancellor of the diocese; Father Timothy Reid, vicar of education of Catholic Schools and CCHS chaplain; Dr. Greg Monroe, superintendent of Catholic Schools; Mercy Sister Paulette Williams, CCHS principal from 1973 to 2000; and Kurt Telford, current principal.

During the ceremony – kept subdued in light of COVID-19 restrictions – Bishop Jugis led those gathered in prayer, blessed the building site with holy water, and offered some remarks.

Noting that the celebration was taking place during Advent, just before Gaudete Sunday, Bishop Jugis said, “Today’s groundbreaking of the Fine Arts Center is an occasion to rejoice… It’s a project many decades in the making. So in the spirit of this Advent season, we do live now in joyful anticipation and expectation of the wonderful things God will allow us to accomplish on this site in years to come.”

Mercy Sister Paulette Williams, Charlotte Catholic’s longtime principal, reflected on the years the school community has waited in anticipation for a facility to serve its successful and growing fine arts programs.

“I think that today reminds us that we stand on the shoulders of all who came before us… Here we are today because of the parents who have been a part of this school for many years,” she said. “The parents and alumni are making this happen today. Thank you for being a part of a 35-year dream coming true today.”

MACS, Charlotte Catholic’s Development Office, and the diocese’s Development and Properties offices all collaborated on the fine arts center. It will serve all nine MACS schools and be available to the wider community.

Since Charlotte Catholic High School moved to its present site on PinevilleMatthews Road in 1995, school leaders have recognized the need for a dedicated fine arts facility. Especially as the awardwinning chorus, band, theater and visual arts programs at MACS schools have grown, space at CCHS has become more limited.

“It is such a testament to our mission, that so many people would help create an embodiment of what we are about,” said Dr. Greg Monroe, superintendent of Catholic schools.

“It’s amazing that in a year when so many things have come to a halt, and where we’ve seen many things frozen, we continue to forge ahead. This (groundbreaking) is yet another testament to us forging ahead seeking excellence – and ultimately doing everything for the glory of God,” he said.

The last time a fine arts center at Charlotte Catholic High School was considered was in 2011, when planning was also under way for

Bishop Peter Jugis, center, flanked by Mercy Sister Paulette Williams, former longtime principal of Charlotte Catholic High School, breaks ground on the new MACS Fine Arts Center Dec. 11. Also pictured are (from left) Monsignor Patrick Winslow, vicar general and chancellor, and current CCHS Principal Kurt Telford.

CÉSAR HURTADO | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

the high school’s stadium renovation and parking deck. That project was completed in 2015.

The “Expanding the Vision, Honoring the Tradition” capital campaign, launched in March 2019, raised more than $6 million toward the project’s cost. A MACS capital fee will fund $15 million of the total projected $21 million cost.

Capital campaign general chairs, Tish Macuga and Carolyn Corsi, were among those present for the ceremony, which was kept limited due to COVID-19 restrictions.

“I feel so blessed that we were able to come to this day and that these kids are going to be able to show their God-given talents in a facility that supports that,” Macuga said. “I am so excited we have made it this far, and can’t wait to see what the building turns out like.”

Corsi added, “I am excited that south Charlotte will have yet another place for our whole community to welcome people for a variety of reasons, so that children from all over our community have a place to gather.”

Cindy Grim, whose late father Harry Grim, along with Chuck Grace, founded the Charlotte Catholic High School Foundation, was there to witness the groundbreaking.

She also served on the capital campaign cabinet.

“I’m a graduate, my children went to school here. A lot of people worked on this for a long time. It’s a wonderful addition to the school. It feels really good to see this come to fruition,” she said.

The two-story building will house a 600-seat auditorium and a high-quality performance and exhibit space for MACS students. It will also house an art studio and band room, choral room, ceramics studio, dance studio, digital lab, stage and theater.

Charlotte Catholic’s visual and performing arts classes will move to the new center, freeing up space inside the high school for other classroom use as well as space for a weight room, wrestling room and more.

The fine arts center will be situated behind the high school, adjacent to the current

gymnasium wing, on the site of a gravel parking lot.

Construction starts in January 2021 and will be completed before the start of the 2022’23 school year.

In his closing remarks, Bishop Jugis prayed that God “will continue to bless all that takes place here, on this site, in the Fine Arts Center, and bring to a successful completion all that we do for the greater glory and honor of Almighty God.”

More online At www.catholicnewsherald.com: Watch video highlights from the blessing and groundbreaking ceremony and listen to what key school leaders had to say about the project

St. Jude Novena St. Jude Novena May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever.

Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us. St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us, St. Jude, help of the hopeless, pray for us.

Published in gratitude for prayers answered.

Thank you, A.T.

Mix 14

catholicnewsherald.com | December 18, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

For the latest movie reviews: catholicnewsherald.com

In theaters

The timelessness of ‘O Magnum Mysterium’ CHRISTINA L. REITZ, PH.D. SPECIAL TO THE CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

‘All My Life’ This fact-based romantic drama is surprisingly upbeat for most of its runtime as it charts the love story of an aspiring chef (Harry Shum Jr.) and a grad student (Jessica Rothe) whose wedding plans have to be accelerated after he is diagnosed with terminal cancer. The enthusiasm with which their friends and family rally round to save the nuptials is admirable. But viewers will be less comfortable with the couple’s casually presented choice to live together and by the seize-the-day philosophy underlying Todd Rosenberg’s script.

Benignly viewed cohabitation, a handful of mild oaths, a few crude and crass terms.

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

‘Half Brothers’ Half-baked comedy in which a Mexican aviation executive (Luis Gerardo Mendez), embittered by the fact that his father (Juan Pablo Espinosa)to whom, as a child he was extremely close, abandoned him and his mother (Bianca Marroquin) after emigrating to the United States, finds his relationship with his fiancee (Pia Watson) marred by his resulting lack of empathy. So, at her insistence, he answers a summons to his dad’s deathbed in search of emotional resolution. Refusing to explain himself, the dying man instead introduces his older son to his younger one (Connor Del Rio), the offspring of his second marriage, and instructs the pair to set out on a combination road trip and scavenger hunt that he believes will show them both why he acted as he did. The odd-couple antics along the journey that follows produce the occasional laugh, but director Luke Greenfield’s film is undercut by the fact that neither Mendez’s relentlessly angry pessimist nor his happy-go-lucky halfsibling is a believable character. A scene of harsh nonlethal violence with gore, several uses of profanity, about a half-dozen milder oaths, a single rough term, considerable crude and crass language.

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

mysterious nature of the text. A superior recording of the work can be found on the 2005 album “All Is Bright” by the Handel and Haydn Society Chorus.

Father Christopher Bond, pastor of St. Lucien Parish in Spruce Pine and St. Bernadette Mission in Linville, reflects on the text of “O Magnum Mysterium”: “I find within ‘O Magnum Mysterium’ (in its various haunting arrangements) an extremely

The music associated with the Christmas season has always maintained a special place in the Catholic Church and in the hearts of the faithful. There are many beloved sacred music works linked to this season, from G.F. Handel’s “Messiah” and Arcangelo Corelli’s “Christmas Concerto” to J.S. Bach’s “Christmas Oratorio.”

One sacred Christmas Vespers text, however, seems to have captured the imagination of composers through the centuries more than any other: “O Magnum Mysterium.”

I was recently reminded of the beauty of this text prior to a Mass at St. Bartholomew Church in Sharpsville, Pa., when their phenomenal and holy priest, Father Matthew J. Strickenberger, was playing the work. As the title “O Great Mystery” suggests, the text describes the great mystery of the Nativity of Our Lord, lying in a manger with animals looking on, and closing with a reference to Our Blessed Lady whose virgin womb bore the Christ Child. While joyful, it is Detail from Botticelli’s “Nativity of Jesus” (c. 1473 - c. 1475), in the collection of a reserved wonder and almost the Columbia Museum of Art. The presence of the ox and donkey at the Savior’s every composer – regardless of birth are mentioned in the scriptures, and St. Augustine, St. Ambrose and others the century in which they lived – considered them as representing the Jewish people, weighed down by the Law (the has set these words to music that ox), and the pagan peoples carrying the sin of idolatry (the donkey). Christ came to illustrates the mysterious and free both from their burdens. sacred event.

The most famous is undoubtedly the motet by Tomás Luis de simple approach to the birth of Our Lord. So Victoria, a native of Ávila, Spain. His “O Magnum often, we get caught up in the anxieties of Mysterium,” written in 1572, dates from his Christmas preparations that we fail to slow employment in Rome as a Church musician. Three down to the point of mere marvel that God years later in the Eternal City, he was ordained would humble Himself to enter our world, take a priest. In Victoria’s work, the listener is drawn on human flesh, and redeem the human person into the significance of the role of Our Lady by through the blood of the cross. If lowly animals the manner in which he sets “O beata Virgo” (“O can put their worries on hold and stop to ponder blessed Virgin”). The phrase is preceded by two the glorious mystery of the Incarnation, why can’t beats of silence immediately prior to enhance the we?” syllabic text setting in homorhythmic texture, As the faithful prepare to celebrate the meaning there is one note per syllable with the Christmas season in a simpler way this voices sounding the words synchronously. These year, the numerous settings of “O Magnum elements contribute to the textual clarity, to signify Mysterium” – in particular, the Victoria and the importance of our Blessed Mother.

Higdon compositions – can foster quiet devotion An example of a contemporary setting is by in pondering the stillness combined with wonder Pulitzer Prize-winning American composer Dr. that defined the very first Christmas.

Jennifer Higdon. As the composer explained, her setting of “O Magnum Mysterium” resulted CHRISTINA L. REITZ, Ph.D., is professor of music at Western from her desire “to create a bit of mystery, which Carolina University in Cullowhee. is why wine glasses are a part of the piece.”

Like Victoria’s composition, the work is scored Listen online for a chorus of soprano, alto, tenor and bass voices, but with texts in both Latin and English At www.catholicnewsherald.com: Listen to Tomás Luis complemented by two flutes, chimes and two de Victoria’s musical setting of “O magnum mysterium” crystal glasses. The contemporary harmonies are performed by the Cambridge Singers. quite different than the Renaissance counterpoint of Victoria, yet the work maintains the beauteous,

‘O magnum mysterium’ O magnum mysterium, et admirabile sacramentum, ut animalia viderent Dominum natum, iacentem in praesepio.

O beata Virgo, cujus viscera meruerunt portare Dominum Iesum Christum. Alleluia.

O great mystery, and wonderful sacrament, that beasts should see the newborn Lord, lying in a manger.

O Blessed Virgin, in whose unblemished womb was carried the Lord Jesus Christ. Alleluia!

On TV n Friday, Dec. 18, 8:40 p.m.

(EWTN) “Pier Giorgio Frassati: Get to Know Him.” A brief introduction to Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, a young, joyful man, whose devotion and charity towards the poor caused Pope Francis to encourage young people to look up to him as an example of holiness. n Saturday, Dec. 19, 9:30 a.m. (EWTN) “The First Christmas.” A colorful, animated production, narrated

by Christopher Plummer, that tells the traditional story of the birth of Jesus. n Saturday, Dec. 19, 5:45 p.m.

(EWTN) “Kenosis.” Bishop Donald Hying opens up viewers to God’s presence in every aspect of their lives. n Sunday, Dec. 20, 6 a.m.

(EWTN) “Angelus with Pope Francis.” Pope Francis leads the world in the recitation of the Angelus, live from Rome. n Monday, Dec. 21, 11:30 a.m.

(EWTN) “Star Shall Rise.”

Three wise men traveling to Bethlehem discuss the significance of the star they follow. The drama featuring Raymond Burr provides an unusual perspective on the well-known Magi story. n Monday, Dec. 21, 2 p.m.

(EWTN) “The EWTN Family Christmas Special.” The Choir of the Eternal Word Television Network performs 12 timeless Christmas hymns on location at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament. With special introduction by Father Joseph Mary Wolfe, M.F.V.A. n Tuesday, Dec. 22, 4:30 p.m.

(EWTN) “Nicholas, the Boy Who Became Santa.” Nicholas was still a young boy when he discovered the love of Jesus and the gift of giving that changed the world. Based on historical facts and traditions, this film is worth watching with family and friends. n Tuesday, Dec. 22, 5 p.m.

(EWTN) “Reclaiming the Carol.” The late Charles Dickens returns to find that “A Christmas Carol,” and the holiday it celebrates, has become overshadowed by glitz and commercialism in this touching story about the true meaning of Christmas. n Thursday, Dec. 24, 3:30 p.m. (EWTN) “Solemn Mass of Christmas Eve in Rome.”

Pope Francis celebrates the Solemnity of the Birth of Our Lord from St. Peter’s Basilica. n Friday, Dec. 25, 3 p.m.

(EWTN) “Urbi Et Orbi: Message and Blessing.” Pope Francis delivers his Christmas blessing to the city of Rome and the world.

December 18, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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Local musician reflects on 2020 and life in new album GASTONIA — As vice provost and chief communications officer at Belmont Abbey College, Rolando Rivas has spent much of 2020 dealing with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic at his place of business, but the pandemic has also inspired a reflective tone in his personal music writing as well. This past year has challenged everyone, but combine that year with the loss of a father, the near loss of a

past year and a half and invites listeners to see the blessings God continues to bestow.

“Despite all the challenges, despite the loss, let us keep our eyes fixed on the Lord, and let us realize that yes we are still blessed, and our lives are truly bountiful,” Rivas says.

The new album is comprised of 14 songs that cascade through this year and last year – the year Rivas’ father passed away and his mother moved in with his family in Gastonia.

“Last year seems eons ago and yet is still fresh in my mind. Dad passed somewhat unexpectedly, and Mom had just recovered from a seeming deathly spiral, and alone at home, with my family traveling back and forth from Texas to help my parents I was often there with my guitar, and songs would just come.”

The pandemic also provided an inspiration.

Like everyone else, Rivas found himself locked indoors – again with a guitar available – and the daily difficulties inspired A younger Rolando Rivas is pictured on the cover of his latest album, new songs.

“Bountiful.”

“These songs would literally show up out of nowhere, a phrase here, mother, and some personal health concerns a melody there, and then suddenly a and there’s a recipe for inspiration. complete song,” Rivas reflects.

Rivas just released his latest album, Four of the songs, “His Presence,” “You “Bountiful,” in which he looks back on the Alone (There is Nothing I Shall Fear),”

Your Life’s Journey… how will you be remembered?

Establish a legacy that responds to the many gifts God has given you.

“Nothing Has Changed,” and “I Will Hope in the Lord,” all directly respond to our times. “I kept wanting to remind people that while we might feel stuck, we might feel alone, we might feel desperate, God still has us, God is still with us, and yes nothing has changed, because Jesus still died for us and we still have our salvation in Him.” Rivas also pays tribute to his parents love in “The Sacrifice of Love” and “God Will Wipe Every Tear Away.”

When his father died in August 2019, Rivas felt a strong sense of having to let him know how much he had meant to him.

A song seemed the best way to pay tribute to him. “They both sacrificed for us, love is that – a sacrifice – and they gave our family that sacrifice day in and day out, with their love for each other and every sacrifice they made to keep our family happy, and loved.”

Later in 2019, his mother moved in with his family. “I wanted to give Mom that gift of a new home with her grandkids, and we’ve loved having her with us.”

“Bountiful” was released Dec. 1, and is available for streaming or purchase on

January Respect Life Events Charlotte Mass for the Unborn Friday, January 8, 2021 9 A.M. – St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church 6828 Old Reid Road, Charlotte, NC

stvincentdepaulchurch.com

March for Life Charlotte Friday, January 8, 2021 11 A.M. – Assemble at Pastoral Center 1123 S. Church St., Charlotte, NC 12 P.M. – March

North Carolina Mass for Life Washington, D.C. Friday, January 29, 2021 Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception 400 Michigan Ave NE Washington, D.C. 10 A.M. – Mass

nationalshrine.org

March for Life 2020 Washington, D.C. Friday, January 29, 2021 12th St. and National Mall 12 P.M.- Rally 1 P.M.- March for Life

marchforlifecharlotte.org

Mass & March for Life Raleigh, NC Saturday, January 16, 2021 11 A.M. Mass – Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral 715 Nazareth St, Raleigh, NC 27606 1:00 PM – Rally & March Halifax Mall on Lane St.

ncrtl.org/rally-and-march-for-life

Foundation of the Diocese of Charlotte

iTunes Music, Spotify, Amazon (a delivered CD option), YouTube Music, Pandora, iHeart Radio, Napster and many more online stores.

“Bountiful” is Rivas’ third album. He released his first, no longer in print, in 2008. His second album, “My Cup Runneth Over,” was released in 2018 and is also available on iTunes Music and Spotify.

That album reflects on his two daughters leaving to pursue vocations at two different monasteries in Pennsylvania and Alabama, as well as has songs for each of his children and his wife.

Rivas began composing music out of necessity since borrowing a guitar from a high school friend in 1984 and has tinkered with music since.

“I didn’t find my muse until I turned to God for inspiration, He brings the songs now, I just play them,” he says. “If there’s anything good in my music it’s because of Him. I truly believe He wants these songs heard. Why else would He give them to me, such an average musician – there’s no doubt it’s all Him!”

marchforlife.org

Please note - check websites listed for updates and restrictions at respective Masses and events. Restrictions in the various cities/ dioceses/parishes are subject to change, so please check regularly and plan accordingly.

There could be limited to no attendance to the Mass in DC pending capacity restrictions.

Updates on these marches and pro-life Masses can also be found at: ccdoc.org/respectlife

For more information on how to leave a legacy for your parish, please contact Gina Rhodes, Director of Planned Giving at 704/370-3364 or gmrhodes@charlottediocese.org.

ccdoc.org

Our nation 16

catholicnewsherald.com | December 18, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief Bishops: Getting COVID-19 vaccine is ‘act of charity’ WASHINGTON, D.C. — The “gravity” of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and “the lack of availability of alternative vaccines,” are “sufficiently serious” reasons to accept the Pfizer/ BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, chairmen of the U.S. bishops’ doctrine and pro-life committees said Dec. 14. “Receiving the COVID-19 vaccine ought to be understood as an act of charity toward the other members of our community,” they said.

“In this way, being vaccinated safely against COVID-19 should be considered an act of love of our neighbor and part of our moral responsibility for the common good.” The bishops addressed the moral concerns raised by the fact the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines have some connection to cell lines that originated with tissue taken from abortions. However, this connection to morally compromised cell lines is so remote and the public health situation is too grave to reject the vaccines, said Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades of Fort Wayne-South

Bend, Ind., chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Doctrine, and Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City, Kan., chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on ProLife Activities. Late Dec. 11, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration gave emergency-use approval to the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines.

S.C. bishop: Vatican finds abuse claim against him unfounded CHARLESTON, S.C. — Bishop Robert E. Guglielmone of Charleston said a Vatican investigation into a sexual abuse allegation against him “has no semblance of truth and is thus unfounded” in a letter to the priests of the diocese. “While not surprising to me, it is very welcomed news as it confirms what I have adamantly stated; I am innocent of the accusation that was made against me,” he wrote in the Dec. 4 letter. He expressed gratitude for the encouragement and prayers offered during what he termed a difficult time. “Your support helped me tremendously as I waited for the allegation to go through the review process,” he wrote. The allegation surfaced in a lawsuit, Powers v. Diocese of Rockville Centre, filed Aug. 14, 2019, in a New York court. The plaintiff alleged that Bishop Guglielmone sexually abused him in 1978 or 1979.

At the time, Bishop Guglielmone was serving as a priest at St. Martin of Tours Church in Amityville, N.Y., in the Diocese of Rockville Centre.

Biden’s HHS pick ‘most proabortion HHS secretary ever’ WASHINGTON, D.C. — As President-elect Joe Biden systematically announces his Cabinet nominees, one selection has already become a culture war flashpoint. California Attorney General Xavier Becerra, Biden’s choice to head the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, has stirred the partisan fires Biden says he hopes to quell. On the one hand, the head of the Catholic Health Association praised Becerra for a career spent “fighting for underserved communities” and his efforts “to protect the welfare of immigrants and migrants.” But National Right to Life and other pro-life leaders criticized Becerra “as an abortion activist plain and simple,” citing NARAL Pro-Choice America’s 100 percent rating for his record on abortion during his 25 years in Congress. If confirmed, he would be “the most pro-abortion HHS secretary ever,” said Carol Tobias, president of National Right to Life. Becerra also sued the Trump administration for expanding the religious exemption to the ACA’s contraceptive mandate in 2017 to fully accommodate the Little Sisters of the Poor’s refusal on religious grounds to cover contraceptives and abortifacients in their employee health care plan.

Jupiter, Saturn to put on ‘Christmas Star’ show Dec. 21 CLEVELAND — A once-every-two-decade conjunction involving the solar system’s two gas giants will give earthbound observers a look at a so-called “Christmas Star” on the winter solstice. Come sunset Dec. 21 in any time zone around the world, Jupiter and Saturn seemingly will merge into a single bright point of light low in the western sky. The Great Conjunction of 2020 will yield an expected spectacular astronomical sight involving the two planets unseen in nearly eight centuries. The two planets have been approaching conjunction – a point when planets or other bodies as seen from earth are near each other in the night sky – all year. That the conjunction is occurring near Christmas Day has given rise to talk about the Star of Bethlehem that the Gospel of Matthew describes in his telling of the birth of Jesus. But the description of the star “is a very minor part of the infancy narrative,” Jesuit Brother Guy Consolmagno, director of the Vatican Observatory, said. “It’s so unimportant that Luke doesn’t talk about it and yet it has captured our imagination.” It’s what the star represents – the birth of Jesus – that is the real story, he said.

— Catholic News Service

Director of Faith Formation Holy Cross Catholic Church, Kernersville, NC

Holy Cross Catholic Church in Kernersville, NC, is seeking a full-time Director of Faith Formation.

Guidance Counselor

Christ the King Catholic High School Christ the King Catholic High School located in Huntersville, NC is looking

This person is responsible for the coordination of educational activities that help parishioners grow in their knowledge and understanding of God, the Church, and their faith.

for a full-time guidance counselor interested in working in a Catholic

To find out more about joining the dynamic team

environment. Founded in 2011, Christ the King is committed to building a

in a diverse and growing parish, please visit

solid Catholic culture in which its students are developed in mind, body, and soul.

Appropriate undergraduate or graduate degree and NC State certification required. (If no NC certification, candidate must meet diocesan standards for assignment.) A lived experience of the Catholic Faith in worship, beliefs and lifestyle. The ideal candidate will also possess wide-ranging academic preparation, a successful history of working with young people, and a history of professional interaction patterns with colleagues and parents.

Duties may include: College counseling, career planning, scheduling, testing, social/emotional counseling, etc. This is a growing community where there is an opportunity to help shape the vision for the future of student guidance.

Please send application and resume to: Marissa Vandenberg at CTK-Resume@ctkchs.org

www.ctkchs.org

holycrossnc.org and click on “Job Opportunities.”

Our world

December 18, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief Pope proclaims year of St. Joseph VATICAN CITY — Marking the 150th anniversary of St. Joseph being declared patron of the universal Church, Pope Francis proclaimed a yearlong celebration dedicated to the foster father of Jesus. In a Dec. 8 apostolic letter, “Patris Corde” (“With a father’s heart”), the pope said Christians can discover in St. Joseph, who often goes unnoticed, “an intercessor, a support and a guide in times of trouble. St. Joseph reminds us that those who appear hidden or in the shadows can play an incomparable role in the history of salvation.

A word of recognition and of gratitude is due to them all,” he said. As Mary’s husband and guardian of the son of God, St. Joseph turned “his human vocation to domestic love into a superhuman oblation of himself, his heart and all his abilities, a love placed at the service of the Messiah who was growing to maturity in his home.”

At www.yearofstjoseph.org: Get prayer resources and updates on the Diocese of Charlotte’s own ongoing Year of St. Joseph, which has been extended to May 1, 2021.

before the year 2050, and he urged everyone in the world to be part of a new culture of care for others and the planet. “The time has come for a change in direction. Let us not rob the new generations of their hope in a better future,” he said in a video message for a global summit. Pope Francis was one of about 75 leaders who contributed to the Climate Ambition Summit, held online Dec. 12. Co-hosted by the United Nations, the United Kingdom and France, and in partnership with Chile and Italy, the meeting marked the fifth anniversary of the Paris Agreement on climate change. During the meeting, the leaders renewed or strengthened investment pledges and commitments to cut greenhouse gas emissions and achieve carbon neutrality.

Some 24 leaders announced at the summit their commitment for net-zero emissions, which would achieve a balance between greenhouse gas emissions produced and greenhouse gas emissions taken out of the atmosphere.

Vatican will offer Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 to employees VATICAN CITY — The Vatican health service will begin vaccinating employees and Vatican citizens against COVID-19 using the Pfizer vaccine starting in January. “Only through a widespread and capillary immunization of the population will it be possible to obtain real advantages in terms of public health to achieve control of the pandemic,” Dr. Andrea Arcangeli, director of the Vatican health service, said Dec. 11. “Therefore, it is our duty to offer all residents, employees and their families the opportunity to be immunized against this dreaded disease,” he said.

Pope: Vatican City will aim for net-zero carbon emissions

Pope: Nativity scene is reminder of hope amid suffering

VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis pledged Vatican City State would achieve net-zero carbon emissions

VATICAN CITY — The image of the Infant Jesus nestled in the manger is a much-needed

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reminder during the pandemic that God gives the world the gift of hope in troubled times, Pope Francis said. Meeting with delegations from Castelli in Italy’s Abruzzo region and from Kocevje, Slovenia – responsible, respectively, for the Nativity scene and Christmas tree in St. Peter’s Square – the pope said Christmas “reminds us that Jesus is our peace, our joy, our strength, our comfort. But, to receive these gifts of grace, we need to feel small, poor and humble like the characters of the Nativity scene.

Even in this Christmas, amid the suffering of the pandemic, Jesus – small and defenseless – is the ‘sign’ that God gives to the world,” he said Dec. 11.

Argentina’s lower house votes to allow abortion BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — Argentina’s Chamber of Deputies approved a bill to decriminalize abortion during the first 14 weeks of pregnancy, despite vocal opposition from the country’s Catholic bishops. Lawmakers approved the legislation in the early hours of Dec. 11, voting 131-117 after debating through the night. The bill would allow abortion at any time for health reasons or in the case of rape. The version approved by the lower house was modified to allow more provisions for conscientious objection and to require patients under age 16 to have the permission of a parent or guardian. It now goes

17

to the Senate for debate. A similar proposal was narrowly voted down by the country’s Senate in 2018 after being approved by the lower house.

If it becomes law, Argentina would become the third country in Latin America to legalize abortion, following Uruguay and Cuba.

Pope encourages Church efforts to bring peace, aid to Syria, Iraq VATICAN CITY — Reflecting on crises still unfolding in Syria and Iraq, Pope Francis encouraged every effort – big or small – to help foster peace there and help Christians remain. Highlighting the desire of refugees to return to their homes, the pope appealed to the international community “to make every effort to encourage this return, guaranteeing the security conditions and the economic conditions necessary for this to happen. Every effort in this regard is precious,” he said. The pope’s remarks came in a video message for the opening of an online meeting Dec. 10 on the humanitarian crises in Syria and Iraq. Sponsored by the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, the meeting brought together about 50 Catholic NGOs, representatives of local dioceses, Church institutions and religious congregations operating in Syria, Iraq and neighboring countries, as well as the apostolic nuncios there.

— Catholic News Service

ViewPoints 18

catholicnewsherald.com | December 18, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Deacon Matthew Newsome

Why do we celebrate Jesus’ birth on Dec. 25?

D

ec. 25 is a date that even non-Christians recognize – and many even celebrate – as the day Jesus Christ was born in the little town of Bethlehem. But was Christ really born on Dec. 25? Some claim the Church only chose this date as a way of co-opting an older pagan winter-solstice holiday in an attempt to gain converts, and it really has nothing to do with Christ’s birth.

I’ve always had a difficult time buying into the argument that by “baptizing” an older pagan festival, the Church would have an easier time convincing people to become Christians. The fact that a different religion celebrates a holiday on the same day as mine wouldn’t entice me to switch faiths. Moreover, there doesn’t seem to be any solid historical evidence that this is what happened. The pagan holiday most often claimed to be the precursor to Christmas is the Roman festival Sol Invictus (“the invincible sun”), but there is very little evidence that this festival was celebrated before the mid-fourth century. And at that time, the Nativity of Christ was being celebrated in different months of the year in various parts of the Church, the December date not yet being firmly established.

And this brings up an important point. By setting Dec. 25 as the annual celebration of the Nativity, the Church isn’t making any claims as to the historical date of Jesus’ birth. The fact is, we don’t know the day of the year on which Jesus was born, just as we don’t know the birthdays of many historical figures. Those records simply do not exist.

This may come as a surprise to us, because we commonly observe our birthdays with annual celebrations. We’d find it shocking, therefore, to meet someone who didn’t know the day they were born. But that wasn’t the case for most ancient cultures. In particular, it doesn’t appear that first-century Jews observed their birthdays. The notable exceptions were powerful political figures such as King Herod (see Mt 14:6), who were not considered good examples to imitate. Celebrating your birthday was seen as a presumptuous act of pride. It’s likely that the date of Jesus’ birth simply wasn’t a thing the early disciples were that concerned with.

The New Testament does not mention the date of Jesus’ birth at all. The earliest Church fathers to mention the day of Christ’s birth are of mixed opinion. St. Clement of Alexandria thought it was in November, but notes that others observed it in April or May. But St. Hippolytus, St. John Chrysostom and St. Augustine all mention in their writings the Nativity of Christ as being celebrated on Dec. 25.

So even though the historical date of Jesus’ birth was uncertain, the Church chose to commemorate it on Dec. 25. The question is why.

The correspondence with the winter solstice (the longest night of the year after which the days begin to lengthen) has led many to speculate that this was at least a borrowing from an older pagan tradition. Many pagan religions did have celebrations around the winter and summer

solstices. These annual turning points on the sun’s journey across the heavens were easily observable and of great importance to agrarian peoples. But celebrating Christ’s birth on the winter solstice does not necessarily mean the Church was attempting to co-opt a pagan holiday.

We must remember that Christians and pagans both live under the same sun. Both depended upon seasonal cycles to plant and harvest crops.

The solstices would have important sign value for Christians as well as pagans.

Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger (later Pope Benedict XVI) connects Christmas with the winter solstice in “The Spirit of the Liturgy” by observing that the birth of Christ is “the dawning of the new light, the true sun, of history.” He also makes an interesting connection with the feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, which the Church celebrates on June 24, Jesus being conceived in the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy (see Lk 1:26). This puts our observance of John the Forerunner’s birth at the summer solstice, after which the days begin to grow shorter. The link between these two dates, Ratzinger remarks, can “be seen as a liturgical and cosmological expression of the Baptist’s words, ‘He (Christ) must increase, but I must decrease’ (Jn 3:30).”

As fitting as it is for us to observe the birth of Christ, the Light of the World, as the days begin to grow longer, there is another reason the Church celebrates Christmas on Dec. 25 which has nothing to do with the solstice, and everything to do with Good Friday.

You see, though the early Christians may not have known when Jesus was born, they had a very good idea of when He died. Christ’s Passion took place during the annual Jewish feast of Passover, and we know when that occurs. There was an early tradition, attested to by Tertullian in the second century, that Christ died on March 25. Because of the tremendous cosmological significance of the death of the incarnate God and the redemption of mankind, further significance was attached to that date. The tradition arose that God created the world on March 25, and that March 25 must also have been when God Himself entered into creation. And of course that didn’t happen at the Nativity, but at the Annunciation, when the Holy Spirit came upon Mary and she conceived a son (the Son) in her womb (cf. Lk 1:31, 35). Her divine Son would be born nine months later, on Dec. 25.

Though we cannot rule out some connection between this date and older pagan festivals, Pope Benedict XVI states, “The decisive factor (for observing Christ’s Nativity on Dec. 25) was the connection of creation and the Cross, of creation and Christ’s conception. In the light of the ‘hour of Jesus,’ these dates brought the cosmos into the picture... The cosmos finds its true meaning in the Firstborn of creation, who has now entered history.”

DEACON MATTHEW NEWSOME is the Catholic campus minister at Western Carolina University and the regional faith formation coordinator for the Smoky Mountain Vicariate.

Fred Gallagher

A meditation on Advent

A

ll of a sudden, after a year of near biblical pestilence, horrid violence in our streets and insanity within the Body Politic, we come again to the season of Advent, when we find ourselves waiting for the birth of Jesus Christ under the bright star of Bethlehem. Let us hope that star will shine down on the woes of this unfortunate year and give us, in the miracle of the manger, a measure of peace.

I found myself recently in a hospital waiting room anxious to hear the outcome of my wife’s shoulder replacement surgery.

(Before I go further, please be assured that she is doing better than expected in her fancy black sling and recuperating wonderfully.) But what happens to us when we are forced by circumstance to just sit and wait, such as this time of Advent? There in that hospital waiting room, I found myself making quiet observations about others also sitting in the waiting room. I began to wonder what their loved ones were going through and just how worried were those sitting there, socially distanced from me in their masks, waiting for their own news from the operating room. After a while of this imposed inactivity and after playing smartphone word games and checking texts and emails, I began to actually contemplate my love for this beautiful, giving and remarkable woman who was at that moment having cobalt chrome put in to replace the ball and socket of her shoulder. I began to meditate on God’s gift of my marriage.

The anticipation of being in the presence of my wife again after her surgery mingled with anticipating, as ever, the gifts of my Savior’s presence in the life of my family.

And so, I waited. And in the liturgical season before us, we all wait. We wait for yet another manifestation of the presence of Christ in our hearts, in our actions, in our deepest thoughts. In an odd juxtaposition of events, we are like Joseph of Arimathea, who Mark tells us in his gospel was known as one waiting for the kingdom of God, who after the Crucifixion “gathered up courage and went in before Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus.” In Advent, we too are waiting for the kingdom. In our devotion and joyful expectation, we are waiting and asking for the Body of Jesus, the startlingly beautiful infant, incarnate God in the form of pure innocence.

It is not only the crucified

and risen Lord I receive in the Eucharist, it is the Child who saves me over and over, the Child who picks me up out of the depths of my transgressions and confusion.

I wait for that Child anxiously , as I did in the hospital waiting room for my wife to emerge from her surgery. In the wait, I am reminded of the great love I have for my wife, the mother of my children. In the waiting of the Advent season, how can we not help be reminded of the grace-filled, sweetest moment in all of human history? How can we not contemplate the love and protection afforded by the Holy Family, the example of Mary’s maternal and untainted devotion, the quiet obedience and loving arms of Joseph?

Let us look to the readings of the coming season where we are encouraged to “cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light” (Romans 13:14); where “by the encouragement of scriptures we might have hope” (Romans 15:4).

As we wait for prophetic words, we hear: “Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you” (Isaiah 60:1). And the prophet also lets us know: “There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots” (Isaiah 11:1). From that shoot and that branch we encounter a newborn who will change the world.

And so, we wait. Amid the deceits and hypocrisies of a modern society lost in fraudulent narrative and self-aggrandizement, we wait.

We light our wreaths against the darkness, we pray against the approach of godlessness, and we wait. We dispel the darkness of hatred and violence the best we can in the joyfully expectant devotions of Advent and with hearts of love.

We embrace the sanctity of all human life as created in the image and likeness of God and granted us

by Him. And we wait.

I am waiting for my Lord in the form of an infant starting His earthly journey of love, instruction and sacrifice. I am waiting for His goodness to reign in this fallen world. I am waiting for those I love to continually emerge from whatever infirmity or doubt or heartache they may encounter. And I am waiting, once again, for the glory and the joy surrounding the birth of the Christ Child under the bright star of Bethlehem.

FRED GALLAGHER is an author and editor-in-chief with Gastonia-based Good Will Publishers Inc.

December 18, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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Bishop Robert Barron

Do some real Advent spiritual work

W

e will never be adequately prepared for the coming of the Savior unless and until we feel in our bones that there is something we need to be saved from. If we don’t require salvation, then Jesus devolves, very quickly, into one wise man among many, one more spiritual teacher in a long line of similar figures across space and time.

The great and ancient Advent chant, “O come, O come, Emmanuel, / and ransom captive Israel, / that mourns in lonely exile here / until the Son of God appear,” catches this fundamental Christian truth. Until we feel like prisoners held for ransom, men and women condemned to hopeless exile, we will not sing those words with anything even approaching conviction.

A passage from the 63rd chapter of the prophet Isaiah provides a series of images that help us to articulate this sense of being in desperate need of salvation. “Why,” Isaiah laments, “do you let us wander, O Lord, from your ways?”

The trope of the path is a common one in the Scriptures: there is a way that we are meant to walk in the spiritual order, and the vast majority of us tend to lose it.

There is a feeling that now only people of a certain age remember, and that is the sensation of being well and truly lost. I limit this to older folks, because today’s hyper-sophisticated GPS tools usually permit us to find our destinations with ease. But prior to those wonderful gadgets, when we relied on maps or, more frequently, on directions scribbled on a piece of paper, we much more readily got lost. When I was about 17 and hence a very inexperienced driver, I was making my way through the streets of Chicago, looking for an expressway entrance. I managed to miss it, and in short order, as darkness was coming on, I realized, with a uniquely sinking sensation, that I didn’t really know where I was or where I was going.

Dante’s “Divine Comedy” commences with these lines: “Midway on the journey of our life / I woke to find myself alone and lost in a dark wood / having wandered from the straight path.” Even if you have found great success in your profession, and even if you are relatively satisfied in your relationships and your social standing, I would be willing to bet that, at the deepest level, you feel lost, and you don’t really know where you are going. As Dante intuited, this insight often occurs when we are at mid-life, but we all know the truth of it to varying degrees.

As painful as it might be, move into that spiritual space this Advent. Feel what it’s like to be off the path and disoriented. Then, you will be able to cry out for the one who said, “I am the way,

‘Allow the God of justice to set things right in us.’

and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6).

A second lament from the prophet Isaiah is this: “Why do you ... harden our hearts so that we fear you not?” For the biblical authors, the heart is the seat of emotion, thought, and action – the core of the personality. It is meant to be “soft” so that God might easily shape it according to His purpose. The hardened heart is like brittle, dry clay, which cracks and shatters at the merest touch of the divine potter. When we are obsessed by our own plans and projects, when we are preoccupied with the prerogatives of the ego, our hearts are hard. In his Letter to the Galatians, St. Paul utters this ecstatic cry: “It is no longer I who live but Christ who lives in me” (Gal. 2:20). This is the language of someone who has allowed his soft heart to be molded utterly by the Lord, who has exchanged the ego-drama for the theo-drama. During Advent, we should inquire after the quality of our heart. How have we been resisting the manner in which God wants to shape us?

Only those who know that they are hardhearted truly long for the arrival of the Sacred Heart.

A third and final complaint from Isaiah is this: “Behold, you are angry, and we are sinful; all of us have become like unclean people.” It is difficult to read any two pages of the Bible in succession, Old Testament or New, and not encounter a reference to the divine anger. It will simply not do to set this idea aside, as though it were an unfortunate holdover from a benighted time. But we must be careful not to emotionalize the reference so as to suggest that God flies into a fit of pique like a raging, dysfunctional father.

I would suggest that the divine anger is a beautifully apt metaphor for God’s passion to set things right. When sin and injustice deface the beauty of God’s beloved creatures and produce deep unhappiness in them, God cannot hold Himself in. He rages, as it were, to rectify the situation.

Therefore, this Advent, we all ought to identify those actions and attitudes in us that rouse God’s anger. I fully realize that the culture instructs us in a thousand ways to affirm our guiltlessness: “I’m OK, you’re OK.” But the Bible instructs us to admit to our “uncleanness.”

Once again, this is not an exercise in psychologically debilitating selfreproach; it is a courageous willingness to offer our weakness to the Divine Physician. It is allowing the God of justice to set things right in us. Until we do this, we will never appreciate the One who said, “I have come to light a fire on the earth” (Luke 12:49), and who, in magnificently high dudgeon, turned over the tables in the temple.

So lest Christmas become one more blandly secular holiday, let us all do some real Advent work: come to grips with how lost we are, how hardened our hearts have become, how we have stirred up God’s anger.

BISHOP ROBERT BARRON is an auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and the founder of Word on Fire Catholic Ministries, online at www.wordonfire.org.

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catholicnewsherald.com | December 18, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD