April 24, 2020

April 24, 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

Diocese names new head of schools

SPECIAL COVERAGE: THE CHURCH RESPONDS TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

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Lawsuits involving previous abuse allegations filed against diocese 3 INDEX

Contact us.....................................4 Español....................................... 12-16 Online Masses...............................4 Our Faith........................................2 Our Parishes............................. 3-7 Scripture readings.......................2 TV................................................. 17 U.S. news.................................18-19 Viewpoints.............................22-23 World news............................ 20-21

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Pope Francis says virtual worship during pandemic is necessary, but temporary:

Living faith without sacraments, community is dangerous 20

ALSO INSIDE: Hungering for the presence of Christ in the Eucharist 20, 22 Be ‘ambassadors of God’s mercy’ Share God’s mercy with others during this pandemic, Bishop Jugis preaches on Divine Mercy Sunday 3

Catholic Charities, now 70 years strong, meets challenges of pandemic 9-11

Sean “embajadores de la misericordia de Dios” 12

Our faith 2

catholicnewsherald.com | April 24, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Pope Francis

Creation is sacred gift deserving respect, care

H

umanity has failed to take care of the earth and its inhabitants, sinning against God and His gift of creation, Pope Francis said.

Celebrating Earth Day let us pledge to love and esteem the beautiful gift of the earth, our common home, and to care for all members of our human family,” he said during his livestreamed weekly general audience from the Vatican.

The pope dedicated his catechesis April 22 to a reflection on the human and Christian responsibility to care for the earth, humanity’s common home. This year also marks the fifth anniversary of the pope’s encyclical, “Laudato Si’, on Care for Our Common Home.” In his catechesis, the pope said Earth Day was “an occasion for renewing our commitment to love and care for our common home and for the weaker members of our human family.”

“As the tragic coronavirus pandemic has taught us, we can overcome global challenges only by showing solidarity with one another and embracing the most vulnerable in our midst,” he said.

As the Book of Genesis relates, he said, “we live in this common home as one human family in biodiversity with God’s other creatures,” and God has called on humanity to care for and respect His creation and “to offer love and compassion to our brothers and sisters, especially the most vulnerable among us, in imitation of God’s love for us, manifested in His Son Jesus.”

God is good and always forgives, the pope said, however, “The earth never forgives: if we have despoiled the earth, the response will be very bad.”

It is imperative that people restore “a harmonious relationship” with the earth and with the rest of humanity, he said. It requires a new way of looking at the earth, not as a “storehouse of resources for us to exploit,” but as a sacred gift for sustaining all of humanity.

He said so many natural tragedies “are the earth’s response to our mistreatment. If I ask the Lord now what He thinks, I don’t think He will tell me something very good. We are the ones who have ruined the work of the Lord! In today’s celebration, we are called to renew our sense of sacred respect for the earth, for it is not just our home but also God’s home. This should make us all the more aware that we stand on holy ground!” he said.

An “ecological conversion,” which stems from a loving and respectful contemplation of the earth’s beauty and leads to concrete action is needed, he said. Because the world and all its people are interdependent, the pope said, the community must cooperate in the protection “of our common home.”

Feast of St. Joseph the Worker coming up May 1 CHARLOTTE — On May 1, the Church will celebrate the feast of St. Joseph the Worker. It had been planned as a particular day of celebration for the Diocese of Charlotte, but plans have been curtailed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This year is being dedicated as the Year of St. Joseph, and May also marks the expected completion date for St. Joseph College Seminary, located near Belmont Abbey College in Belmont. On May 1, leaders and supporters had planned a large outdoor Mass on the grounds of the new college seminary building, followed by an open house for the public to tour the college seminary’s new permanent home.

Plans for the Mass offered by Bishop Peter J. Jugis are still going ahead, but now it will be livestreamed on the Diocese of Charlotte’s YouTube channel starting at 5:30 p.m. (To get a reminder email about the upcoming livestream, subscribe to the channel: www.youtube. com/dioceseofcharlotte.) The open house will be scheduled later when public health restrictions allow.

During the Year of St. Joseph in the diocese, this patron saint of workers and the Universal Church is being honored in special ways.

Pope Pius XII instituted the feast of St. Joseph the Worker in 1955. This feast extends the long relationship between Joseph and the cause of workers in both Catholic faith and devotion. Beginning in the Book of Genesis, the dignity of human work has long been celebrated as a participation in the creative work of God. By labor we fulfill the command found in Genesis to cultivate the earth and thus raise it up as an offering of praise. St. Joseph worked as an artisan in the medium of

PHOTO PROVIDED

The St. Joseph College Seminary in Belmont is nearing completion. Bishop Peter Jugis will celebrate Mass May 1, the feast of St. Joseph the Worker, on the college seminary grounds. The 5:30 p.m. Mass will be livestreamed on the Diocese of Charlotte’s YouTube channel. wood just as the Son of God given into his care would work His greatest labor, our salvation, through the means of wood.

Opened in 2016, St. Joseph College Seminary has been a magnet for young men wanting to discern the priesthood.

Enrollment growth has been faster than the diocese had anticipated, from eight students in its first year to 26 during the current academic year.

Construction work on the $20 million project is expected to be substantially completed within the coming weeks. The fundraising campaign recently reached $14.5 million.

The two-story, Gothic-styled building

will include a chapel, classroom, library, conference rooms, a kitchen and refectory (cafeteria), faculty offices, and a guest room for speakers and visiting priests. It will also include 40 dorm rooms or “cells” for the college seminarians.

— Catholic News Herald. Franciscan Media contributed.

More online At www.yearofstjoseph.org: Find educational resources, prayers and devotions, and “Year of St. Joseph” event details from across the diocese, as dates for special events are finalized.

Daily Scripture readings APRIL 26-MAY 2

Sunday: Acts 2:14, 22-33, 1 Peter 1:17-21, Luke 24:13-35; Monday: Acts 6:8-15, John 6:22-29; Tuesday (St. Peter Chanel, St. Louis Grignion de Montfort): Acts 7:51-8:1, John 6:30-35; Wednesday (St. Catherine of Siena): Acts 8:1-8, John 6:35-40; Thursday (St. Pius V): Acts 8:26-40, John 6:44-51; Friday (St. Joseph the Worker): Acts 9:1-20, John 6:52-59; Saturday (St. Athanasius): Acts 9:31-42, John 6:60-69

MAY 3-9

Sunday: Acts 2:14, 36-41, 1 Peter 2:20-25, John 10:1-10; Monday: Acts 11:1-18, John 10:1118; Tuesday: Acts 11:19-26, John 10:22-30; Wednesday: Acts 12:24-13:5, John 12:44-50; Thursday: Acts 13:13-25, John 13:16-20; Friday: Acts 13:26-33, John 14:1-6; Saturday: Acts 13:44-52, John 14:7-14

MAY 10-16

Sunday: Acts 6:1-7, 1 Peter 2:4-9, John 14:1-12; Monday: Acts 14:5-18, John 14:2126; Tuesday (Sts. Nereus and Achilleus, St. Pancras): Acts 14:19-28, John 14:27-31; Wednesday (Our Lady of Fatima): Acts 15:1-6, John 15:1-8; Thursday (St. Matthias): Acts 1:15-17, 20-26, John 15:9-17; Friday (St. Isidore): Acts 15:22-31, John 15:12-17; Saturday: Acts 16:1-10, John 15:18-21

Our parishes

April 24, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

Lawsuits involving previous abuse allegations filed against diocese CHARLOTTE — Two civil lawsuits have been filed against the Diocese of Charlotte involving past allegations of child sexual abuse by two priests dating from the 1970s and 1980s.

The allegations involve claims of abuse formerly made against the late Father Joseph Kelleher and Father Richard Farwell, in litigation that was dismissed by North Carolina courts in 2012 and 2014.

The two lawsuits were filed in Mecklenburg County Superior Court April 13, citing a new North Carolina law that permits certain claims for childhood sexual abuse to be asserted even if they were previously barred by the statute of limitations.

Kelleher was removed from ministry in 2010 and died in 2014. Farwell was sentenced to probation in 2004 and remains permanently out of ministry. Both were named on the diocese’s Accountability webpage in December 2019.

The diocese issued the following statement in response to the lawsuits being filed: “The Diocese of Charlotte is aware of two lawsuits, pertaining to allegations that date back to the 1970s and 1980s, filed Monday by individuals whose claims against the diocese were previously dismissed by the North Carolina courts. We disagree that the diocese is liable to the plaintiffs and will respond to the litigation in court at the appropriate time. The diocese takes allegations of child sexual abuse very seriously and remains committed to providing a safe environment for all people, especially the young and vulnerable.”

— Catholic News Herald

Online At www.catholicnewsherald. com/news/abuse: Learn more about what the Diocese of Charlotte has done to prevent child sexual abuse, find resources for parents, and more At accountability. charlottediocese.org: Get information about the secure, 24/7 hotline for reporting child sexual abuse by any bishop, clergy, employee or volunteer of the diocese

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Diocese names new superintendent of schools CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

sacraments (particularly the sacrament of penance), and works of charity, Bishop Jugis said.

God “wants the mercy of Jesus to be continuously lived in the Church, in the sacrament of penance and in all the ministry of the Church. God wants His children in the Church to experience always this mercy, which at such great cost He won for us through His Son,” he said.

Bishop Jugis recalled the two extra Solemn Intercessions that were prayed throughout the world during the Good Friday liturgy –

CHARLOTTE — Dr. Gregory Monroe, who comes from the Archdiocese of Omaha, Neb., has been named superintendent of the Diocese of Charlotte Schools.

He will begin his new role June 1, succeeding Debbie Mixer, who is currently serving as the interim superintendent.

Mixer will continue serving as the assistant superintendent beginning June 1. Mixer took over as interim superintendent in June 2019, succeeding Dr. Janice Ritter.

A 12-person search committee of clergy and laity from across the diocese with connections to diocesan schools – parochial, regional and Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools – selected Monroe after a national search process.

Father John Putnam, who led the committee, said in an email, “I believe our Catholic schools can be one of our best tools for Monroe evangelization.”

Monroe was selected from a field of almost 30 applications, Father Putnam said. That was narrowed to 12 candidates for review, which was then cut to four, who were then interviewed.

“Through that process and follow-up, Dr. Greg Monroe became our top choice for the position,” Putnam said.

“When the committee began its work, it was clear that the person we were seeking needed to be someone with vision who could formulate a plan to take our Catholic schools to the next level,” he said.

The committee was concerned that Catholic school enrollment has declined even as the Catholic population in the diocese continues to grow, he said.

“Dr. Monroe impressed us all with his enthusiasm and commitment to Catholic education,” Father Putnam said. “He has been involved with turning struggling schools around, working with various nontraditional models of Catholic education, and working to develop a true team approach.”

Monroe’s experience includes serving as principal of a Catholic high school in Florida, director of career development at Christendom College, multiple years of classroom teaching at the elementary and secondary levels, and serving as a parish youth minister.

Most recently, he served in a senior leadership position in the Catholic Schools Office of the Archdiocese of Omaha, where he grew a blended learning initiative from five to 27 schools; represented Catholic education for the state by serving on the Cognia (formerly AdvancED) schools accreditation board; served on the boards of the three archdiocesan high schools and served as principal on record for three elementary schools. He was also a coach on the archdiocese’s consultant team that supported pastors throughout the

MERCY, SEE PAGE 21

SUPERINTENDENT, SEE PAGE 21

DELLA SUE BRYSON | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

(Above) In this screenshot, Father Casey Coleman and Deacon Matthew Newsome lead a Divine Mercy Chaplet and Holy Hour April 19 at St. Mary, Mother of God Church in Sylva. The Sylva parish joined many other churches around the diocese in livestreaming Masses or prayer services for Divine Mercy Sunday, so that people could still participate even as everyone is under “stay at home” orders due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Below) Bishop Peter Jugis offers a livestreamed Mass from St. Patrick Cathedral in Charlotte for Divine Mercy Sunday.

Be ‘ambassadors of God’s mercy’ Share God’s mercy with others during this pandemic, Bishop Jugis preaches on Divine Mercy Sunday PATRICIA L. GUILFOYLE CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

CHARLOTTE — God is merciful, and those who have experienced His mercy personally are called to be “ambassadors of His mercy to others,” Bishop Peter Jugis preached on Divine Mercy Sunday.

The bishop offered a private Mass April 19 at St. Patrick Cathedral that was streamed live on the Diocese of Charlotte’s YouTube channel. Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, most public Masses and other gatherings have been canceled due to public health guidance aimed at slowing the spread of the disease. The COVID-19 virus has so far sickened about 700,000 people and killed more than 36,000 in the United States, including 172 in North Carolina.

Praying for God’s mercy is particularly important now during the coronavirus pandemic “which has gripped the whole world in suffering, sorrow and fear,” Bishop Jugis said.

“We continue to ask God to have mercy on us, and to rid the world of this plague,” he said.

“God is merciful – that is the Easter message of the Risen Jesus,” he emphasized.

The Passion, death and resurrection of Our Lord is “an expression of God Almighty’s loving mercy for the whole human race.”

“It is by that suffering, crucifixion, death and resurrection that Jesus has won our salvation,” he said. Almighty God “had mercy on us when we had turned away from God through sin, and He made His only Son the

sacrifice for our sins, bringing us back to live in friendship with God.” The Church manifests God’s mercy through prayer, the proclamation of the Gospel, the

SUEANN HOWELL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Online Masses 4

catholicnewsherald.com | April 24, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

April 24, 2020 Volume 29 • NUMBER 15

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

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.

ST. EUGENE CHURCH, ASHEVILLE

LIVESTREAMED MASSES

ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CHURCH, LENOIR

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:

ST. GABRIEL CHURCH, CHARLOTTE ST. JOAN OF ARC CHURCH, CANDLER ST. LAWRENCE BASILICA, ASHEVILLE

BELMONT ABBEY MONASTERY: 11 a.m. daily

ST. LEO THE GREAT CHURCH, WINSTON-SALEM

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

Sunday

ST. MARGARET MARY CHURCH, SWANNANOA

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

ST. MARY CHURCH, GREENSBORO

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

ST. MICHAEL CHURCH, GASTONIA

ST. MARK CHURCH, HUNTERSVILLE ST. MARY MOTHER OF GOD CHURCH, SYLVA ST. PATRICK CATHEDRAL, CHARLOTTE

STAFF

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

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

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

ST. MATTHEW CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 12 p.m. daily; 9 a.m. Sunday

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

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

ST. MICHAEL CHURCH, GASTONIA: 10:30 a.m. Sunday

ST. STEPHEN MARONITE CATHOLIC CHURCH, CHARLOTTE

ST. PATRICK CATHEDRAL, CHARLOTTE: 11 a.m. Sunday

ST. THERESE CHURCH, MOORESVILLE

SACRED HEART CHURCH, SALISBURY: 9 a.m. daily

ST. PAUL THE APOSTLE CHURCH, GREENSBORO: 10 a.m.

Monday-Friday and Sunday

SENIOR REPORTER: SueAnn Howell 704-370-3354, sahowell@charlottediocese.org ONLINE REPORTER: Kimberly Bender 704-808-7341, kdbender@charlottediocese.org HISPANIC COMMUNICATIONS REPORTER: Cesar Hurtado, 704-370-3375, rchurtado@charlottediocese.org GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Tim Faragher 704-370-3331, tpfaragher@charlottediocese.org COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT/CIRCULATION: Erika Robinson, 704-370-3333, catholicnews@ charlottediocese.org

ST. ALOYSIUS CHURCH, HICKORY: 9 a.m. daily; 11 a.m.

Sunday English; 1 p.m. Sunday Spanish ST. ANN CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

(Latin Mass) Sunday ST. BASIL THE GREAT EASTERN CATHOLIC CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 11 a.m. Sunday ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CHURCH, WINSTON-SALEM: 9 a.m. English; 2 p.m. Spanish ST. JAMES CHURCH, CONCORD: English and Spanish

THE CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD is published by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte 26 times a year.

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

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

ST. JOHN NEUMANN CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 9 a.m.

Sunday in English and 10 a.m. Sunday in Spanish ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST CHURCH, WAYNESVILLE, AND IMMACULATE CONCEPTION MISSION, CANTON ST. LUKE CHURCH, MINT HILL: 9 and 11 a.m. Sunday in English; 1 p.m. Sunday bilingual; 4:30 p.m. Sunday 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 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. STEPHEN MISSION, ELKIN: 9 a.m. Sunday ST. THERESE CHURCH, MOORESVILLE ST. THOMAS AQUINAS CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 9 a.m. daily; 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 RECORDED MASSES

Correction The April 15 news item “Parish assists college seminarian” incorrectly identified the pictured representative of the Knights of Columbus Council at St. Elizabeth Church in Boone. The Grand Knight pictured is Jack Ryan. We regret the error.

ST. STEPHEN MISSION, ELKIN

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL CHURCH, CHARLOTTE MISAS LOCALES EN ESPAÑOL Las siguientes parroquias ofrecen misas en vivo o grabadas cada semana. Un horario actualizado está en línea en www.catholicnewsherald.com, o comuníquese con su parroquia para más detalles: OUR LADY OF GRACE CHURCH, GREENSBORO OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 8 a.m. Domingo OUR LADY OF LOURDES CHURCH, MONROE

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:

ST. ALOYSIUS CHURCH, HICKORY: 1 p.m. Domingo

GOOD SHEPHERD MISSION, KING

ST. LUKE CHURCH, MINT HILL: 1 p.m. Domingo

HOLY CROSS CHURCH, KERNERSVILLE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CHURCH, FOREST CITY IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY CHURCH, HIGH POINT

ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CHURCH, WINSTON-SALEM: 1:30 p.m. Domingo ST. JAMES THE GREATER CHURCH, CONCORD ST. MARK CHURCH, HUNTERSVILLE: 1 p.m. Domingo ST. MARY MOTHER OF GOD CHURCH, SYLVA: 7 p.m.

Sabado

OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CHURCH, CHARLOTTE OUR LADY OF GRACE CHURCH, GREENSBORO OUR LADY OF MERCY CHURCH, WINSTON-SALEM SACRED HEART CHURCH, SALISBURY

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

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

ST. PAUL THE APOSTLE CHURCH, GREENSBORO

LOCAL MASSES IN VIETNAMESE ST. JOSEPH VIETNAMESE CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. Sunday

Seek the intercession of St. Roch, St. Rosalie CHARLOTTE — Bishop Peter J. Jugis is encouraging the people of the Diocese of Charlotte to pray for the intercession of St. Roch and St. Rosalie to end the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.

Most public Masses and all parish activities remain canceled across western North Carolina, and all 19 diocesan schools have now shifted to online classes only, as part of the community’s response to the public health threat.

During a special videotaped Mass offered March 15, Bishop Jugis encouraged the faithful to pray to St. Roch and St. Rosalie to “deliver us from the current attack and subsequent suffering we are enduring from the coronavirus.”

St. Roch, who is believed to have been born in France and lived in Italy in the 1300s, cared for the victims of the plague in Italy.

He contracted the plague but survived, and

many healings were attributed to him. He is the patron saint of invalids. His feast day is Aug. 16.

St. Rosalie was born in Sicily and lived during the mid-1100s. In her youth she left her home and lived in a cave, giving her life to God. She died alone in a cave near Palermo in 1166.

In 1624 a plague hit Palermo and St. Rosalie appeared to a sick woman and a hunter and instructed him to the place where her body was buried. St. Rosalie told him to have her bones processed around the city three times to end the plague. The plague ceased, and her feast day is celebrated Sept. 4.

The following prayer to the two saints is suggested: “Merciful Father, through the intercession of Blessed Mary, St. Roch, and St. Rosalie, deliver us from the current attack and subsequent suffering we are enduring from the coronavirus.

St. Roch

St. Rosalie

May we seek to assist those in need in body or spirit and ourselves turn away from sin and trust in You. We ask this in the name of the Divine Physician, Jesus Christ Our Lord.”

— Catholic News Herald. CatholicOnline contributed.

April 24, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com

UPDATES ON HIGH SCHOOLS’ BUILDING CAMPAIGNS St. Gabriel parishioners Fine Arts Center to break ground this year leave lasting legacy SUEANN HOWELL SENIOR REPORTER

CHARLOTTE — Longtime parishioners of St. Gabriel Church, the late A. Lorraine and C. Richard “Dick” Cox, were fixtures in their parish community who, over the course of almost 40 years in the Diocese of Charlotte, contributed their time, talent and treasure to impact the lives of many people they never met.

Lorraine passed away in 1999, and Dick recently passed away March 15 at the age of 94.

A retired CPA from Belk Stores, Cox and his wife volunteered in the parish office over the years, attended daily Mass and spent countless hours in the perpetual Adoration chapel at St. Gabriel Parish.

In his lifetime, Cox established three endowments with the Diocese of Charlotte Foundation: The A. Lorraine Cox and C. Richard Cox Priest Retirement Endowment Fund; The A. Lorraine Cox and C. Richard Cox Seminarian Education Endowment Fund; and The Bishop Curlin Endowment Fund for the Poor. The first two endowments were set up in 1998, the year before his wife Lorraine died. The third endowment was established in 2006 to honor Bishop William Curlin, who was a close friend.

“He was not a wealthy man but was very committed to stewardship of his time and financial resources,” said Jim Kelley, diocesan director of development. “Many of us give 10 percent of our income to church and charity.

Dick gave 50 percent of his income to church and charity after his wife died.”

Kelley noted that Cox was also committed to stewardship in his gift of time to his parish and his faith.

“He really was committed to giving 10 percent of his time. So he spent two hours and 24 minutes every day doing the following things: going to daily Mass, spending time in Adoration, praying and reading spiritual books,” he said.

“During his lifetime, he gave almost $600,000 to the Diocesan Support Appeal, Catholic Charities, Seminarian Education and the three endowments,” Kelley noted. “He also gave generously to his parish, St. Gabriel, and to other Catholic nonprofits.”

Cox’s son, Rich, recalled how his father had pictures drawn by the school children of St. Gabriel School hung up all throughout his apartment in the senior living center. His dad donated flowers on the first day of school and at Christmas and the students and staff expressed their thanks by offering prayers for him.

“He really got a lot out of the spiritual bouquets (from the students). It meant a lot to him,” Rich Cox said.

He also recounted a visit to the Diocesan Pastoral Center that really affected his father.

“The Catholic Charities visit really had an effect on him. He went to see what Catholic Charities was doing. He said he had to leave the building because he was crying, he was so moved,” he said.

Father Frank O’Rourke, retired pastor of St. Gabriel Parish, met the Cox family in the early 1980s.

“I knew Dick primarily for his devotion to the Eucharist,” Father O’Rourke said. “He attended daily Mass and was dedicated to Eucharistic Adoration. As time went on, when he was 90, he would come three or four times a day (to spend time in Adoration).”

“I knew him to be very supportive of priests,” he said. “I was happy to have been with him in the last couple of months of his life and had the privilege to celebrate the Eucharist at his deathbed.”

The Coxes’ stewardship has been a model for others, Kelley said. “More and more people across the diocese are following Dick’s example by giving generously during their lifetime and by setting up endowments.”

SALLY MCARDLE SPECIAL TO THE CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

CHARLOTTE — The much-anticipated expansion of Charlotte Catholic High School moves forward with the announcement that Choate Construction Co. has been selected as general contractor. Groundbreaking for the new MACS Fine Arts Center at CCHS is scheduled for later this year.

This announcement comes as the “Expanding the Vision, Honoring the Tradition” capital campaign moves closer to its goal, with more than $6.1 million raised to date.

An additional commitment of $15 million from Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools’ capital fees brings the overall funds to nearly 92 percent of the $23 million goal.

“With more than $20 million committed, we will build a facility that will meet educational and programming needs,” said Principal Kurt Telford. “We are so grateful for all of the donors who have joined us with their gifts and pledges so far, and our hope is that others will join them in the coming months.”

Under the current schedule, design plans will be finalized in the coming months with pre-construction work to be completed over the summer. Construction is expected to start this fall with anticipated completion for the start of the 2022-’23 school year.

“After years of hard work and careful planning, we are very excited that this dream has become a reality,” Telford said. He added that the expansion and renovation will benefit all students and families by enhancing not only the visual and performing arts, but all aspects of educational and extracurricular programs at CCHS. “Classrooms currently used for visual and performing arts courses will be freed up for other academic and athletic uses,” he noted.

“In addition, the planned renovation and

expansion of athletic facilities adjacent to the gymnasium will be completed.”

The Fine Arts Center will provide a modern facility for students to refine and demonstrate skills in the visual and performing arts. The two-story building will include an auditorium and visual and performing arts classrooms.

It will serve not only Charlotte Catholic students, but also will provide space for educational programs and performances for MACS elementary and middle school students as well as the entire Catholic community.

Programming space in the new building includes art studios, a ceramics studio, kiln room, band room, choral room, dance studio, a black box for drama classroom, along with practice and storage rooms. In addition, the renovation of spaces in the existing building will include a weight room, wresting room, classroom spaces and team locker rooms.

Since the campaign launched early last year, nearly 600 families, individuals, businesses and foundations have supported it. Among those groups, 100 percent of the faculty, staff and campaign leadership have placed their own charitable support behind the goals.

“We are truly appreciative of the broadbased support received to date,” said Paul Polking, a long-time CCHS supporter who, along with his wife Joan, is one of the campaign’s honorary chairs.

SALLY MCARDLE is the executive director of the Office of Institutional Advancement at Charlotte Catholic High School.

Be part of the legacy For details about the “Expanding the Vision, Honoring the Tradition” capital campaign, call Principal Kurt Telford at 704-543-1127 or Advancement Director Sally McArdle at 704-7162459. Learn more at www.playingyourpart.org.

CTK nears capital campaign goal DR. CARL SEMMLER SPECIAL TO THE CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

HUNTERSVILLE — During these unprecedented times, the Christ the King Catholic High School community is relying upon our faith – born from hope – to provide assurance, stability and inspiration.

Scripture reminds us that “faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see” (Heb 11:1).

Together we are moving all fronts of the school forward, from a comprehensive distance learning program to new strides in our campaign to build a new Athletic & Activity Complex. The teachers and our benefactors are the real heroes during this time. Both groups are demonstrating courageous self-sacrifice during an uncertain time.

Christ the King High School has a holistic educational vision based upon the pillars of faith and reason. As such we are committed to ensuring that students are developing spiritually, intellectually, physically and emotionally. The vision for the new Athletic & Activity Complex is an important part of this commitment.

Thanks to the support of diocesan leadership who approved directing a recent N.C. Department of Transportation refund to our Athletic & Activity Complex building project for work the school completed on Shiloh Church Road, the campaign has witnessed a $400,000 increase. In addition, CTK’s Silver and Blue fundraising committee has made a $50,000 gift to the campaign to honor the 2018-19 and 201920 development efforts. We are thrilled

to announce our campaign total has now reached $4.25 million.

Since our establishment in 2011, the Christ the King High School community has thrived thanks to the hard work and sacrifice of so many. For this reason, the school asks for your prayers and support as we continue our “Grounded in Faith – Building our Future” capital campaign.

Currently the team is working on the final steps to reach the Level 2 goal of $4.5 million.

We are less than 7 percent away from reaching that goal. This threshold will enable us to complete the gymnasium, locker rooms, coaches’ offices and full-size stage – ensuring our Athletic & Activity Complex serves as a gathering space for our entire school community through artistic performances, athletic competitions and liturgical celebrations.

Ultimately, our overall plan is still to reach the Level 3 goal of $5.5 million to complete the entire project. What better gift can we give our Crusaders, upon their return from distance learning, than the news that their school will soon be getting a new gathering space to help strengthen our community?

DR. CARL SEMMLER is the principal of Christ the King High School in Huntersville.

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

Questions? Contact Dr. Carl Semmler at 704-7994400 or email CTKCampaign@ctkchs.net.

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Health care conference to be held online CHARLOTTE — The St. John Paul II Foundation, in collaboration with the Diocese of Charlotte and Belmont Abbey College, will present its “Converging Roads” health care ethics conference virtually this year.

Converging Roads is a regional conference series offering continuing education for health care professionals that equips them to practice the highest ethical and medical standards of their profession. Originally scheduled as an in-person conference, the third year of this conference is being held online.

The conference will take place online Saturday, May 9, from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at a discounted rate. By joining the livestreamed conference, healthcare professionals can receive up to seven hours of continuing education credits.

For those unable to be present for the livestreamed conference, the presentations will be available for 72 hours afterwards.

“This conference in incredibly important for Catholic’s working in healthcare to attend so they can continuously be educated on where their faith and practice intersect,” said Jessica Grabowski, Respect Life program director. “The topics of the conference cover a wide variety of issues through both the lens of the Church and that of the medical practice.”

This year’s conference will focus on Catholic social teaching in medicine.

Speakers will address topics such as “Care for the Sick and Dying: Rooted in Catholic Social Doctrine”; “The Secularist Attack on Religious Liberty of Medical Practitioners in the Literature and Law”; “Religious Freedom and Vaccines Compulsion: A View Through Catholic Social Teaching”; “A Catholic Response to the Opioid Crisis”; “Ethical Standards in the Pharmaceutical Industry”; “Hidden in Plain Sight: Human Trafficking in Our Midst”; and “Access to Healthcare for the Poor and Undocumented.”

For details and registration information, go to www.convergingroads. com.

— Kimberly Bender, online reporter

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catholicnewsherald.com | April 24, 2020 OUR PARISHES

Solar panels expected to reap energy savings KIMBERLY BENDER ONLINE REPORTER

CHARLOTTE — The Diocese of Charlotte wants to lead by example.

Protecting the planet – this Earth Day and year ’round – is important and a way to follow Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical “Laudato Si’: On Care for Our Common Home.”

“Laudato Si’” is the appeal from Pope Francis addressed to “every person living on this planet” for an inclusive dialogue about how we are shaping the future of our world.

One of the ways the diocese wants to lead by example is through its solar panel project on the roof of the Diocesan Pastoral Center, said Anthony Morlando, diocesan properties director.

The 100-kilowatt solar array on the roof of the Pastoral Center has been up and running since mid-March.

“It’s something we’re hopeful that other church locations and schools will want to replicate,” Morlando said, “to be responsible citizens of the earth.”

The uptown Charlotte building installed rooftop solar panel arrays to save a significant amount on energy costs last fall. In 2015, St. Eugene Church in Asheville was the first to install a 46-kilowatt solar panel array on its roof, aiming to cover nearly 20 percent of the church’s annual energy usage.

St. Gabriel Church in Charlotte has also just installed a 230-kilowatt array on the roof of St. Gabriel Parish Center/School. It will be up and running soon.

St. Gabriel Parish building committee member Tim Dixon, who serves as the parish’s project manager, said the 622 solar panels are projected to produce approximately 345,000 kilowatt-hours per year – about 40 percent of the parish center/elementary school’s annual energy consumption. The parish anticipates saving $25,000 a year on its energy costs.

While the installation is complete, the solar panels haven’t been energized yet, Dixon said.

The 272 solar panels on the roof of the Pastoral Center

Log on for First Saturday Devotions from Salisbury DINA WILSON CORRESPONDENT

are projected to cut the building’s energy costs by 20 percent, Morlando said.

The $150,000 solar panel project at the Pastoral Center was funded in part through a $75,000 Duke Energy grant, and diocesan leaders expect the panels to pay for themselves within eight years. The panels have a 25-year lifespan before they will need to be replaced.

Alternative energy isn’t just better environmental stewardship, it’s good stewardship in general, Morlando and others say. The savings on a parish’s or school’s energy bills is “opportunity revenue.”

The Pastoral Center’s solar panels are performing as designed, Morlando said.

“In these uncertain times, the diocese is operating without a hitch,” he said. “These solar panels are doing the same thing. They are working, even though we’re not there. They are generating energy, even though we’re not there.”

In the past month, 26,000 pounds of carbon emissions were not emitted into the atmosphere because of the energy saved through these solar panels, he estimated.

SALISBURY — First Saturday Devotions are continuing at Sacred Heart Church despite the COVID-19 pandemic. Father John Eckert, pastor, will livestream the parish’s First Saturday Devotion with Mass and also offer a reflection on Saturday, May 2.

“In this unique time of pandemic, keeping our priorities straight is essential, and this devotional practice is an incredible aid to do just that,” Father Eckert said. “I know it’s a time filled with anxiety about what is coming next. But at Fatima, our Blessed Mother told the shepherd children not to be afraid because, in the end, her Immaculate Heart would triumph.”

He first streamed the devotion earlier this month, and plans to continue the monthly broadcast as long as health restrictions on public gatherings are in place.

“It’s important that, in the face of all the challenges and unknowns, we remember that we are being loved into existence at this very moment, that Our Lord and Our Lady are with us, and that we can pray and offer up sacrifices and penances for the conversion of poor sinners,” he said.

The First Saturday devotion was asked for by Our Lord and Our Lady in connection with the apparitions in Fatima, Portugal, which took place beginning just over 100 years ago.

The schedule for the May 2 livestream is: 8:15 a.m., Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament; 8:30 a.m., recitation of the rosary and Benediction; and 9 a.m.

Holy Mass, followed by a 15-minute meditation on the mysteries of the rosary. After a brief break, Father Eckert will give a talk about the First Saturday Devotion and the fruits he has seen come from it.

Viewers can tune in via the Sacred Heart Vimeo or Facebook pages. Go to www.salisburycatholic.org for details.

HAVE YOU ANSWERED THE CALL TO SUPPORT THE DSA? The purpose of the Diocesan Support Appeal (DSA) is to help provide the annual funding necessary to carry out the mission of our diocese – namely to fulfill our call to “grow ever more perfectly into a community of praise, worship, and witness, and to become a leaven of service and sign of peace through love in the Piedmont and western North Carolina.” The DSA provides funding for 50 ministries and programs.

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

Easy Ways to Donate Pledge | One-Time Gift | Online Gift | Stock Donation | IRA Contribution www.charlottediocese.org/DSA

DIOCESE OF CHARLOTTE

April 24, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com

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SPECIAL COVERAGE: THE CHURCH RESPONDS TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Parishioners called to stewardship despite challenging times SUEANN HOWELL AND PATRICIA L. GUILFOYLE CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

CHARLOTTE — Efforts are under way to help parishes weather the COVID-19 pandemic, even as parishioners are being called to continue supporting their parish through their offertory gifts.

Weekly offertory collections provide the largest source of operating income for parishes – sometimes as much as 95 percent. Offertory collections are also a significant funding source for parishes’ community charity work, with more than $3.3 million contributed diocesewide through parishes’ tithing in the past fiscal year.

With most public Masses canceled for at least seven weeks during the COVID-19 outbreak, if not longer, collections are expected to dwindle and put that work of the Church at risk.

Over the first three weeks of canceled Masses, offertory collections diocese-wide are down approximately 40 percent from the same time period last year, the diocese’s Finance Office reports.

“The percentage of revenue shortfall varies by parish, ranging from single digits to close to 100 percent,” said Bill Weldon, CFO and chief administrative officer for the diocese.

In response, the diocese is supporting parishes with financial advice and relief grants, as well as urging them to set up and promote online giving.

More than three-quarters of the diocese’s 92 churches and missions now offer online giving, but electronic giving has lagged even as Masses and

devotions have moved online.

Jim Kelley, diocesan director of development, has been reaching out to pastors to connect them with resources, share ideas and troubleshoot any problems.

Kelley shared his expertise with 100 dioceses across the United States March 30 during a “Catholic Stewardship in Uncertain Times” webinar sponsored by the International Catholic Stewardship Council and CCS, a strategic fundraising consulting firm. The webinar provided Kelley and three other experts in the field the opportunity to educate and encourage dioceses to help their parishes overcome the current financial challenges.

During this time of uncertainty and isolation, Kelley said, communication between pastors and parishioners is key.

“Staying connected is important,” he said. “We’re trying to get people information that focuses on holiness, the health and safety of parishioners, and also encourages parishioners to support and stay involved with their parish. We want to help people stay connected to Christ.”

Parishes engaging in communication efforts through letters, newsletters, online outreach and phone calls are seeing good results, he said.

One example is Queen of the Apostles Church in Belmont: Its outreach efforts have resulted in increased online giving, and to date, COVID, SEE PAGE 21

SUEANN HOWELL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Holy Communion being offered in limited instances CHARLOTTE — Public Masses and other parish gatherings of more than 10 people are still not allowed under current public health restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, so priests of the diocese have been working out ways they can safely and appropriately administer the sacraments, particularly Holy Communion. At the pastor’s discretion and in accord with liturgical norms, Holy Communion may be offered according to the rite of Holy Communion Outside of Mass in groups of fewer than 10 people, while maintaining social distancing guidelines consistent with state health directives. An example was this April 19 Communion service held in the Chapel of the Two Hearts, located inside St. Patrick Cathedral’s Family Life Center. While wearing protective face coverings and maintaining a safe social distance, more than 350 people came in groups of nine people at a time to attend brief Communion services scheduled at intervals throughout the day in the cathedral and chapel. The rite of Holy Communion Outside of Mass is not designed to replace the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass during this ongoing pandemic, but it is allowed in “extraordinary” circumstances if the celebration of the Eucharist is impossible for a “grave cause” (“Redemptionis Sacramentum,” 164).

CHURCH

MAILING ADDRESS

ONLINE GIVING?

Christ the King Church Christ the King Mission Church of the Epiphany Mission Divine Redeemer Church Good Shepherd Mission Holy Angels Church Holy Cross Church Holy Family Church Holy Infant Church Holy Redeemer Church Holy Spirit Church Holy Trinity Church Immaculate Conception Church Immaculate Conception Church Immaculate Conception Mission Immaculate Heart of Mary Church Immaculate Heart of Mary Mission Our Lady of Consolation Church Our Lady of Fatima Mission Our Lady of Grace Church Our Lady of Guadalupe Church Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission Our Lady of Lourdes Church Our Lady of Mercy Church Our Lady of the Americas Church Our Lady of the Angels Mission Our Lady of the Annunciation Church Our Lady of the Assumption Church Our Lady of the Highways Church Our Lady of the Mountains Mission Our Lady of the Rosary Church Prince of Peace Mission Queen of the Apostles Church Sacred Heart Church Sacred Heart Church Sacred Heart Mission Sacred Heart Mission St. Aloysius Church St. Andrew the Apostle Church St. Ann Church St. Barnabas Church St. Basil the Great Eastern Catholic Church St. Bernadette Church St. Benedict Church St. Benedict the Moor Church St. Charles Borromeo Church St. Dorothy Church St. Elizabeth Church St. Eugene Church St. Frances of Rome Mission St. Francis of Assisi Church St. Francis of Assisi Church St. Francis of Assisi Church St. Francis of Assisi Church St. Gabriel Church St. Helen Mission St. James Church St. James the Greater Church St. Joan of Arc Church St. John Baptist de la Salle Church St. John Lee Korean Church St. John Neumann Church St. John the Baptist Church St. John the Evangelist Church St. Joseph Church St. Joseph Church St. Joseph Church St. Joseph Church St. Joseph of the Hills Church St. Joseph Vietnamese Church St. Jude Church St. Lawrence Basilica St. Leo the Great Church St. Lucien Church St. Luke Church St. Margaret Mary Church St. Margaret of Scotland Church St. Mark Church St. Mary Church St. Mary Help of Christians Church St. Mary, Mother of God Church St. Matthew Church St. Michael the Archangel Church St. Patrick Cathedral St. Paul the Apostle Church St. Peter Church St. Peter Yu Korean Church St. Philip the Apostle Church St. Pius X Church St. Stephen Mission St. Therese Church St. Thomas Aquinas Church St. Vincent de Paul Church St. William Church

1505 MLK Jr. Dr., High Point, NC 27260 818 McGowan Road, Shelby NC 28150 163 Galax Lane, Blowing Rock, NC 28605 P.O. Box 370, Boonville, NC 27011 105 Good Shepherd Dr., King, NC 27021 1208 North Main St., Mount Airy, NC 27030-3640 616 South Cherry St., Kernersville, NC 27284 P.O. Box 130, Clemmons, NC 27012 P.O. Box 1197, Reidsville, NC 27323 214 Aquone Road, Andrews, NC 28901 537 NC 16 Business, Denver, NC 28037 1041 NC Hwy. 90 West, Taylorsville, NC 28681 1024 West Main St., Forest City, NC 28043 611 N. Church St., Suite 101, Hendersonville, NC 28792 42 Newfound St., Canton, NC 28716 4145 Johnson St., High Point, NC 27265 P.O. Box 546, Murphy, NC 28906 1235 Badger Court, Charlotte, NC 28206 211 West Third St., Winston-Salem, NC 27101 2203 West Market St., Greensboro, NC 27403 6212 Tuckaseegee Road, Charlotte, NC 28214 P.O. Box 727, Bryson City, NC 28713 725 Deese St., Monroe, NC 28112 1730 Link Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27103 P.O. Box 159, Candor, NC 27229 290 N. Garden St., Marion, NC 28752 416 N. Second St., Albemarle, NC 28001 4207 Shamrock Dr., Charlotte, NC 28215 943 Ball Park Road, Thomasville, NC 27360 315 North 5th St., Highlands, NC 28741 619 South Main St., Lexington, NC 27292 704 Tallulah Road, Route 129 South, Robbinsville, NC 28771 503 North Main St., Belmont, NC 28012 150 Brian Berg Lane, Brevard, NC 28712 375 Lumen Christi Lane, Salisbury, NC 28147 P.O. Box 1208, Hamlet, NC 28345 P.O. Box 1406, Mars Hill, NC 28754 921 Second St. NE, Hickory, NC 28601 P.O. Box 1406, Mars Hill, NC 28754 3635 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28209 P.O. Box 39, Arden, NC 28704 1400 Suther Road, Charlotte, NC 28213 P.O. BOX 1252, Linville, NC 28646 109 West Smith St., Greensboro, NC 27401 1625 East 12th St., Winston-Salem, NC 27101 728 West Union St., Morganton, NC 28655 148 Saint Dorothy’s Lane, Lincolnton, NC 28092 259 Pilgrims Way, Boone, NC 28607 72 Culvern St., Asheville, NC 28804 P.O. Box 634, Jefferson, NC 28640 299 Maple St., Franklin, NC 28734 P.O. Box 634, Jefferson, NC 28640 328-B Woodsway Lane NW, Lenoir, NC 28645 862 Yadkinville Road, Mocksville, NC 27028 3016 Providence Road, Charlotte, NC 28211 341 Dallas-Spencer Mountain Road, Gastonia, NC 28056 P.O. Box 1208, Hamlet, NC 28345 139 Manor Ave. SW, Concord, NC 28025 768 Asbury Road, Candler, NC 28715 275 CC Wright School Road, North Wilkesboro, NC 28659 7109 Robinson Church Road, Charlotte, NC 28215 8451 Idlewild Road, Charlotte, NC 28227 180 Laurel Ave., Tryon, NC 28782 234 Church, St., Waynesville, NC 28786 720 West 13th St., Newton, NC 28658 512 West Wainman Ave., Asheboro, NC 27203 P.O. Box 727, Bryson City, NC 28713 108 Saint Joseph St., Kannapolis, NC 28083 316 Boone Road, Eden, NC 27288 4929 Sandy Porter Road, Charlotte, NC 28273 3011 US-64, Sapphire, NC 28774 P. O. Box 1850, Asheville, NC 28802 335 Springdale Ave., Winston-Salem, NC 27104 P.O. BOX 688, Spruce Pine, NC 28777 13700 Lawyers Road, Mint Hill, NC 28227 102 Andrew Pl., Swannanoa, NC 28778 P.O. Box 1359, Maggie Valley, NC 28751 14740 Stumptown Road, Huntersville, NC 28078 812 Duke St., Greensboro, NC 27401 818 McGowan Road, Shelby, NC 28150 22 Bartlett St., Sylva, NC 28779 P.O. Box 49349, Charlotte, NC 28277 708 St Michael’s Lane Gastonia, NC 28052 1621 Dilworth Road East, Charlotte, NC 28203 2715 Horse Pen Creek Road, Greensboro, NC 27410 507 South Tryon St., Charlotte, NC 28202 4112 Romaine St., Greensboro, NC 27407 P.O. Box 882, Statesville, NC 28687 P.O. Box 13588, Greensboro, NC 27415 101 Hawthorne Road, Elkin, NC 28621 217 Brawley School Road, Mooresville, NC 28117 1400 Suther Road, Charlotte, NC 28213 6828 Old Reid Road, Charlotte, NC 28210 P.O. Box 546, Murphy, NC 28906

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catholicnewsherald.com | April 24, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Where are you going?

QUO VADIS DAYS 2020

June 15-19, 2020 * Belmont Abbey College Retreat is open to young men 15 thru 19 years old A camp for Catholic men to learn more about the priesthood, deepen their faith, and help discern God’s call in their lives.

www.charlottevocations.org

April 24, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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CATHOLIC CHARITIES WEEK APRIL 26-MAY 2

Catholic Charities, now 70 years strong, meets challenges of pandemic ELDER MINISTRY

SUEANN HOWELL SENIOR REPORTER

CHARLOTTE — The COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing guidelines and current stayat-home orders for North Carolina residents have been catalysts for Catholic Charities’ need to find innovative solutions to continue to serve program participants and the growing number of people in need of help.

Never in its 70-year history has Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte had to rise to the challenges presented by the novel coronavirus and adapt its programs to account for the health concerns of its staff and clients during a pandemic.

Catholic Charities Week (April 26-May 2) provides an opportunity to highlight the efforts of Catholic Charities across the diocese during this difficult time.

FOOD PANTRY PROGRAMS

Catholic Charities operates food pantries in Asheville, Charlotte and Winston-Salem, serving upwards of 14,000 people each year and distributing more than a half million pounds of food. All food pantries are operating by appointment, using a curbside pickup model to ensure the health and safety of staff, volunteers and program participants. Food is pre-packed throughout the week by small groups of volunteers who practice social distancing and wear face masks and gloves.

Carts are sanitized and loaded before they are pushed out to recipients’ vehicles. Since switching to this delivery method nearly overnight when the pandemic shut down its usual food pantry operations, Catholic Charities during a recent two-week period provided 51,802 pounds of food to 1,503 people in need.

REFUGEE PROGRAMS

Refugee program staff continue to provide case management services to refugee participants, helping them with access to information and resources, applying for COVID-19 relief assistance and other benefits, and ensuring children are completing their school assignments and doing well emotionally.

The Refugee Employment staff has been staying busy connecting with participants via phone, email and video conference when possible. Catholic Charities’ staff have been checking in with employed clients on a biweekly basis to make sure they are well and answering any questions they might have.

Clients who have been furloughed or laid off have been receiving help with submitting unemployment claims and obtaining job counseling. Employers and community partners are also staying connected with Catholic Charities’ staff through email and phone calls about open positions and assistance available for clients.

The Refugee Youth Program is remaining connected to students and their families to help address their particular needs including schoolwork, employment and food. Program staff stay in touch with students’ schools and teachers to make sure students are completing their at-home assignments, and they are also writing personal notes of encouragement, hosting video “meet-ups” with high school aged students, and providing tutoring when needed via video conferencing.

Food donations are being given out to clients curbside at Catholic Charities’ locations in Asheville, Charlotte and Winston-Salem (pictured above).

Prior to COVID-19, Elder Ministry was planning for the 34th Annual Spring Fling, reflection days and other educational workshops throughout the diocese.

Since COVID-19, Elder Ministry has been working to promote educational information on Catholic Charities’ website and Facebook page, as well as through emails to parishes and senior club leaders – including opportunities for spiritual reflection, education on senior issues and online opportunities for physical activities to help keep seniors healthy, active and engaged in life.

RESPECT LIFE AND SOCIAL CONCERNS

Catholic Charities continues its efforts to promote respect for the dignity of all human life by emails, group chats and one-onone conversations, and to plan for virtual conference events PHOTOS PROVIDED BY taking place during COVID-19 CATHOLIC CHARITIES DIOCESE OF CHARLOTTE restrictions and in-person events after restrictions are lifted. The IMMIGRATION PROGRAMS agency’s website and Facebook page share Immigration staff are providing legal postings and news from the U.S. Conference of immigration services via video conferencing Catholic Bishops to promote opportunities for and an online database to meet with education. participants to discuss the status of their case and complete the steps necessary for MARRIAGE PREP submitting government-required forms.

Marriage preparation classes have Naturalization services are also still being shifted from in-person workshops to offered to people via the Citizenshipworks video presentations online. Within a short platform, a free online service that helps timeframe, presenters recorded their people apply for citizenship. presentations and the material was compiled into online sessions that couples could register SUPPORT FOR VETERANS for and view at their convenience. Couples Veteran Services case coordinators continue can also download an electronic version of the to ensure that homeless veterans in need Marriage Preparation workbook, “Preparing are getting the help they need. The number for Your Marriage in the Catholic Church.” of homeless veterans in need has increased So far, 72 couples have taken part in the new during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially as class format, and another 24 are signed up for local homeless shelters have been forced to classes in May. cut back on the number of people they assist due to social distancing restrictions. Catholic NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING Charities’ staff are working to secure housing Small group, online and individual for the people referred to them, placing instruction in English and Spanish is still eligible veterans who are unsheltered into available for Natural Family Planning hotels while staff look for more permanent information, as larger in-person workshops housing solutions. Catholic Charities’ staff are are temporarily on hold. Continued also connecting veterans to local community support is also provided for follow-ups food resources and VA health care. when seeking to prepare for pregnancy and So far, Catholic Charities has assisted over during transitions, such as postpartum or a dozen homeless veterans find more stable perimenopause. housing, and $250,000 in new federal funding will enable them to help more veterans during GREENSBORO AND LENOIR the pandemic.

Two new outreach efforts began as the impact of COVID-19 took hold.

COUNSELING In Greensboro, Catholic Charities secured The COVID-19 pandemic has created anxiety new office space in the same business complex and stress for many people, and providing that doubled the size of its office space, access to mental health services is more making ample room for more volunteers. important now than ever. In response, Catholic Although the space became available just as Charities’ counseling service has transitioned COVID-19 travel restrictions were put into to “tele-counseling” to offer mental health place, staff continue to respond remotely to services online when access to in-person requests for help. counseling is not possible. The professional In Lenoir, a March 29 open house and staff are using an easy-to-use, HIPAAblessing of the new office on the grounds compliant telehealth platform. People use their of St. Francis of Assisi Church had to be computer, mobile phone or tablet to have a onecanceled, but outreach continues with remote on-one confidential meeting with a counselor. distribution of baby items.

Prayer to Our Lady, Health of the Sick O Mary, you shine continuously on our journey as a sign of salvation and hope.

We entrust ourselves to you, Health of the Sick.

At the foot of the Cross you participated in Jesus’ pain, with steadfast faith.

You, Salvation of the People of God, know what we need.

We are certain that you will provide, so that, as you did at Cana of Galilee, joy and feasting might return after this moment of trial.

Help us, Mother of Divine Love, to conform ourselves to the Father’s will and to do what Jesus tells us: He who took our sufferings upon Himself, and bore our sorrows to bring us, through the Cross, to the joy of the Resurrection. Amen.

We seek refuge under your protection, O Holy Mother of God. Do not despise our pleas – we who are put to the test – and deliver us from every danger, O glorious and blessed Virgin.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Pope Francis offered this prayer to Our Lady, Health of the Sick, to implore her protection during the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. The English translation is provided by Vatican News.

How you can help Right now, financial donations to enable Catholic Charities to assist participants and buy food are an effective way to help serve people in need. Make donations online at www.ccdoc.org (click on “Donate”); or by mail to: Catholic Charities, Central Processing, 1123 S. Church St., Charlotte, NC 28203.

Need assistance?

Catholic Charities intends to continue offering services to as many people in need as possible during the COVID-19 pandemic.

People in western North Carolina can reach out to their local Catholic Charities office: 828-255-0146 in Asheville; 704-370-3262 in Charlotte; and 336-727-0705 in Winston-Salem.

Individuals needing assistance can also call 2-1-1 to find up-todate information on available community services that may be available. 2-1-1 was created to help people get information about local food pantries, medical resources and possible changes to government benefits.

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Sean “embajadores de la misericordia de Dios” Padre Julio Domínguez

El triunfo de la Misericordia

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ueridos hermanos, hemos pasado unos días que nos han parecido a muchos de nosotros muy largos y preocupantes.

Hemos tenido que ajustarnos a un modo nuevo de vivir e incluso de celebrar nuestras fiestas litúrgicas y nuestra Semana Santa y Triduo Pascual.

De todo esto tenemos que ver siempre la parte más positiva y darnos cuenta que ha sido siempre en los problemas y en los exilios, guerras y tempestades en las que el ser humano vuelve su rostro a Dios implorando su misericordia.

En este pasado domingo, en que acabamos de celebrar el Domingo de la Misericordia, recordamos que tenemos que aferrarnos a nuestra fe y pedirle al Señor su gran misericordia.

Si nos remontamos a los tiempos del Antiguo Testamento, nos encontraremos con las muchas ocasiones en las cuales el Señor desbordó su amor y misericordia con el pueblo de Israel, perdonando incluso sus pecados.

Así mismo, hoy es un momento muy propicio en el cual podemos decirle al Señor que tenga misericordia de nosotros y del mundo entero.

La oración del Justo salva al pecador.

Unamos nuestra oración a la del Hijo y pidamos fuerte e incesantemente por toda la humanidad para que la misericordia triunfe sobre el juicio.

EL PADRE JULIO DOMÍNGUEZ es director del Ministerio Hispano de la Diócesis de Charlotte.

Rezo de la Coronilla de la Divina Misericordia Se utiliza un rosario común de cinco decenas.

1. Comenzar con un Padre Nuestro, Avemaría, y Credo.

2. Al comenzar cada decena decir: “Padre Eterno, te ofrezco el Cuerpo, la Sangre, el Alma y la Divinidad de Tu Amadísimo Hijo, Nuestro Señor Jesucristo, para el perdón de nuestros pecados y los del mundo entero.”

3. En las cuentas pequeñas del Ave María: “Por Su dolorosa Pasión, ten misericordia de nosotros y del mundo entero.”

4. Al finalizar las cinco decenas de la coronilla se repite tres veces: “Santo Dios, Santo Fuerte, Santo Inmortal, ten piedad de nosotros y del mundo entero.”

Compartamos la misericordia de Dios con otros durante esta pandemia, pidió el Obispo Jugis en su homilía del Domingo de la Divina Misericordia PATRICIA GUILFOYLE EDITORA

CHARLOTTE ­— Dios es misericordioso, y aquellos que lo han experimentado personalmente están llamados a ser “embajadores de su misericordia ante los demás”, señaló el Obispo Peter Jugis en su homilía del Domingo de la Divina Misericordia.

El obispo ofreció una misa privada el 19 de abril en la Catedral San Patricio, que se transmitió ‘en vivo’ por el canal de YouTube de la Diócesis de Charlotte, donde puede ver la Misa completa.

Desde el estallido de la pandemia de COVID-19, la mayoría de las Misas públicas y otras reuniones se han cancelado debido a las indicaciones de las autoridades de gobierno y sanitarias destinadas a frenar la propagación de la enfermedad. Hasta el domingo 19 de abril, el virus COVID-19 había infectado a más de 730.000 personas y causado la muerte de más de 39.000 en Estados Unidos, incluidas 195 en Carolina del Norte, según datos proporcionados por el Centro Johns Hopkins de Ciencia e Ingeniería de Sistemas.

Orar por la misericordia de Dios es particularmente importante ahora durante la pandemia de Coronavirus “que ha sumido al mundo entero en sufrimiento, tristeza y miedo”, dijo el Obispo Jugis.

“Continuamos pidiéndole a Dios que se apiade de nosotros y libere al mundo de esta plaga”, añadió.

“Dios es misericordioso, ese es el mensaje de Pascua de Jesús Resucitado”, enfatizó. La pasión, muerte y resurrección de Nuestro Señor es “una expresión de la amorosa misericordia de Dios Todopoderoso con toda la raza humana”.

“Es por ese sufrimiento, crucifixión, muerte y resurrección que Jesús ganó nuestra salvación”, dijo. Dios Todopoderoso “tuvo misericordia de nosotros cuando nos alejamos de Dios a través del pecado, e hizo de su único Hijo el sacrificio por nuestros pecados, trayéndonos de vuelta la vida en amistad con Dios”.

La Iglesia manifiesta la misericordia de Dios a través de la oración, la proclamación del Evangelio, los sacramentos

SUEANN HOWELL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Orar por la misericordia de Dios es particularmente importante ahora, dijo el Obispo Jugis en su homilía del 19 de abril, fiesta del Domingo de la Misericordia. (particularmente el sacramento de la penitencia) y las obras de caridad, anotó el Obispo Jugis.

Dios “quiere que la misericordia de Jesús se viva continuamente en la Iglesia, en el sacramento de la penitencia y en todo el ministerio de la Iglesia. Dios quiere que sus hijos en la Iglesia experimenten siempre su misericordia, la que a tan alto costo ganó para nosotros a través de su Hijo”.

MISERICORDIA, PASA A LA PÁGINA 15

Diócesis de Charlotte nombra nuevo superintendente de escuelas CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

CHARLOTTE — El Dr. Gregory Monroe, proveniente de la Arquidiócesis de Omaha, Nebraska, fue nombrado como superintendente de las Escuelas de la Diócesis de Charlotte.

Comenzará su nuevo cargo el 1 de junio, sucediendo a Debbie Mixer, quien actualmente se desempeña como superintendente interina.

Mixer continuará como superintendente asistente a partir del 1 de junio.

Mixer asumió el cargo de superintendente interina en junio de 2019, sucediendo a la Dra. Monroe Janice Ritter.

Un comité, compuesto por 12 personas, entre clérigos y laicos de toda la diócesis relacionados con las escuelas diocesanas (parroquiales, regionales y escuelas católicas del área de Mecklenburg) seleccionó a Monroe después de un proceso de búsqueda en todo el país.

El padre John Putnam, quien presidió el comité, dijo en un correo electrónico

que cree que “nuestras escuelas católicas pueden ser una de nuestras mejores herramientas de evangelización”.

Monroe fue seleccionado de entre casi 30 candidatos, dijo el padre Putnam. La cantidad se redujo a 12 candidatos y luego a cuatro, quienes fueron entrevistados.

“A través de ese proceso y seguimiento, el Dr. Greg Monroe se convirtió en nuestra mejor opción para la posición”, dijo Putnam.

“Cuando el comité comenzó su trabajo, teníamos claro que la persona que buscábamos debía ser alguien con una visión capaz de formular un plan para llevar nuestras escuelas católicas a un nivel más alto”, señaló.

Al comité le preocupaba la disminución del número de estudiantes en las escuelas católicas, a pesar que la población católica en la diócesis continúa creciendo, destacó Putman.

“El Dr. Monroe nos impresionó a todos con su entusiasmo y compromiso con la educación católica. Ha estado involucrado en la mejora de las escuelas con dificultades, trabajado con varios modelos no tradicionales de educación católica y ha

desarrollado de un verdadero enfoque de trabajo en equipo”.

La experiencia de Monroe incluye haber sido director de una escuela secundaria católica en Florida, director de desarrollo profesional en Christendom College, varios años de enseñanza en el aula en los niveles primario y secundario, y su servicio como ministro de juventudes parroquial. Más recientemente, ocupó un puesto de liderazgo en la Oficina de Escuelas Católicas de la Arquidiócesis de Omaha, donde desarrolló una iniciativa de aprendizaje de cinco a 27 escuelas; representó a la educación católica para el estado sirviendo en la Junta de Acreditación de Escuelas de Cognia (anteriormente AdvancED); sirvió en las juntas directivas de las tres escuelas secundarias arquidiocesanas y como director registrado en tres escuelas primarias. También fue asesor del equipo de consultores de la arquidiócesis que apoyó a los pastores de la arquidiócesis.

Monroe dijo que se sintió atraído por el carácter y la cultura de la Diócesis de SUPERINTENDENTE, PASA A LA PÁGINA 15

April 24, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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COBERTURA ESPECIAL: LA IGLESIA RESPONDE A LA PANDEMIA DEL CORONAVIRUS COVID-19

Líderes y fieles hispanos utilizan tecnología para mantenerse en contacto Feligresía y liderazgo del Ministerio Hispano de la Diócesis de Charlotte se valen hoy de recursos informáticos para mantenerse en contacto, desarrollar esfuerzos ministeriales y seguir siendo reflejo de la misericordia de Dios.

“Estamos dando ánimo a los demás para que el ‘encierro’ que estamos viviendo no se sienta tanto, para decirles que no están solos, que su comunidad está allí con ellos”, dijo uno de los líderes.

CÉSAR HURTADO REPORTERO

CHARLOTTE — Contra viento y marea, superando las dificultades originadas por el aislamiento social, líderes del ministerio hispano y feligreses de la Diócesis de Charlotte han encontrado la manera de mantenerse en contacto, trabajar en sus ministerios y orar en comunidad.

Después que el Reverendísimo Padre Peter Jugis, Obispo de la Diócesis de Charlotte, dispusiera la cancelación de las Misas y actividades diocesanas que reunieran a diez o más personas, en cumplimiento de las indicaciones del gobierno estatal y las recomendaciones de las autoridades de salud, los líderes y fieles hispanos se lanzaron en la búsqueda de medios alternativos que les permitieran continuar con sus actividades, enfrentando el reto de mantenerse activos y coordinando actividades virtuales.

TELECONFERENCIAS

En Boone, Sergio López, coordinador del ministerio hispano en ese vicariato, inició el contacto con sus coordinadores parroquiales utilizando conferencias a través de internet. Además, a través de Cristo Squad, una página de facebook creada por López para dar servicio a la parroquia Divino Redentor de Boonville, se inició la difusión de teleconferencias.

“Estamos enfocados en transmitir mensajes de apoyo. Con nuestras propias palabras estamos dando ánimo a los demás para que el “encierro” que estamos viviendo no se sienta tanto, para decirles que no están solos, que su comunidad está allí con ellos”, dijo López.

Aleksandra Basanik, coordinadora del vicariato de Winston Salem, logró -en asociación con la parroquia San Juan de la Salle- realizar la Misa en español, en directo, a través de la página de Facebook Ministerio Hispano Winston-Salem.

CÉSAR HURTADO | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

ORAN EL ROSARIO

Sorprendida, Basanik comentó que diariamente más de 20 personas se conectaban a la página de facebook del vicariato para orar el Santo Rosario por la noche. “Pero, en total, son más de ochocientas las personas que llegan en algún momento a la página. Incluso tenemos visitantes de la India”, subrayó.

Pilar Castañeda y Augusto Frattini, parroquianos de San Gabriel en Charlotte, iniciaron a mediados de marzo el rezo del Santo Rosario utilizando la plataforma Zoom. Ellos eran parte de un grupo no muy numeroso que se reunía periódicamente en sus casas para compartir en comunidad el rezo del Rosario.

Habiendo iniciado sus actividades con pocos participantes, han logrado reunir en promedio a 30 personas cada noche.

En su búsqueda por mantenerse en contacto a través de la práctica de su fe, contactaron a los sacerdotes Fabio

de Jesus Marín Morales, director del Ministerio Hispano de la parroquia San James the Greater en Concord; y al Padre Gabriel Carvajal, vicario de la parroquia San Gabriel, quienes ocasionalmente celebran Misa para todas las fieles conectados a través de esa plataforma virtual.

ESFUERZO REGIONAL

De otra parte, Ibis Centeno, coordinadora del Ministerio Juvenil Hispano diocesano, dirigió una de las teleconferencias del Retiro de la Pascua Juvenil organizado por el Instituto Pastoral del Sureste (SEPI), que se llevó a cabo el pasado miércoles 1 de abril.

Lamentablemente, los retiros de la Pascua Juvenil fueron cancelados debido a las restricciones de reunión pública. “Hoy en día la tecnología es una bendición”, dijo Centeno.

Para Eduardo Bernal, coordinador del

vicariato de Charlotte, “ahora hay más trabajo que nunca, más reuniones que antes, más iglesias que acompañar, más necesidad de la comunidad por recursos, más gente con quien hablar, más talleres que hacer y desarrollar. Todo se ha multiplicado”.

El coordinador agradeció a SEPI, “que se ha puesto a la altura de esta nueva realidad” y ofrece capacitación online gratuita para líderes y fieles.

De otro lado, el Diácono Enedino Aquino y la Hermana Joan Pearson, coordinadores de los vicariatos de Greensboro y Salisbury respectivamente, se han puesto al día con las plataformas virtuales que les resultan de gran utilidad para su trabajo pastoral.

“Estamos haciendo todo lo que está a nuestro alcance para servir a las necesidades de la comunidad”, aseguró la Hermana Pearson.

Ofrecen Adoración Eucarística bajo limitaciones Desde que empezó esta pandemia de COVID-19 y las consecuentes restricciones sanitarias y de aislamiento social sancionadas por las autoridades gubernativas, el Diácono Enedino Aquino expone el Santísimo cada martes para que los miembros de la comunidad parroquial de Holy Infant en Reidsville, con previa cita, lo visiten sin sobrepasar el límite de reunión establecido por las autoridades. Para poder asistir a la Adoración Eucarística en el templo es indispensable encontrarse en buena salud y firmar previamente un registro. Para ingresar se respeta estrictamente un número máximo de 8 personas en el interior al mismo tiempo.

De otra parte, se alienta a todos los feligreses a permanecer en casa y seguir cuidadosamente las reglas sanitarias para evitar la expansión del contagioso COVID-19.

FOTO CORTESÍA

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catholicnewsherald.com | April 24, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Florece grupo juvenil de la parroquia San Eugenio en Asheville CÉSAR HURTADO REPORTERO

ASHEVILLE ­— La aparición de la pandemia de Coronavirus cambió por completo el panorama de las celebraciones religiosas en todo el país. Las restricciones de reunión que decretaron las autoridades sanitarias y de gobierno, indispensables para evitar el contagio y la dispersión del mal, impidieron que los feligreses llevaran a cabo sus reuniones regulares.

Pero no solo niños y adultos vieron detenidas sus actividades de formación de la fe y práctica de culto en decenas de grupos y ministerios, a lo largo de las 98 parroquias y misiones que conforman la Diócesis de Charlotte, en el oeste de Carolina del Norte.

Un sector muy afectado fue el de los grupos juveniles, entre ellos uno que visitamos el pasado 11 de marzo, el grupo juvenil de la parroquia San Eugenio, en Asheville, pocos días antes que se decretaran las primeras medidas sanitarias de restricción.

Bajo la guía directa del Padre Patrick (‘Pat’) Cahill, pastor de la parroquia, más de un centenar de jóvenes de escuela media y secundaria se congregaban todos los miércoles desde las cinco y treinta de la tarde, cuando daban inicio a sus sesiones de formación de la fe y compartir con la celebración de la Santa Misa.

El miércoles 11 de marzo, en plena temporada de Cuaresma, fuimos testigos de un hecho que se podría calificar de excepcional. Decenas de jóvenes siguieron atentamente el Vía Crucis para posteriormente, primero con timidez y luego con decisión, seguir la Adoración Eucarística con gran devoción.

Pero este año, que había comenzado con cambios, era un paso experimental del Padre Pat. Anteriormente los grupos se reunían los domingos por la noche, “pero esto era un poco incómodo para las familias”, explicó el Padre Pat. Por ello, de acuerdo con los padres de familia, se decidió cambiar la fecha de reunión para que la familia se vea beneficiada al contar con más tiempo para disfrutar en el día de descanso que la mayoría de integrantes comparte: el domingo.

Con ese propósito, el párroco decidió implementar una Misa los miércoles a las 5:30 de la tarde, tras la cual se ofrecerían las clases de formación de la fe y las reuniones grupales de los jóvenes. Allí compartirían una pizza y refresco u otro snack para socializar entre ellos.

La propuesta tuvo una aceptación inmediata y los resultados comenzaron a reflejarse rápidamente en los niveles de asistencia. ¿Cuál fue la clave para este logro?

“La participación de los padres”, responde el Padre Pat. “Necesitamos la participación de los padres para lograr el éxito del grupo juvenil. Sin padres no es posible, porque los jóvenes no pueden conducir, al menos que ya tengan 16 años, y la posibilidad de contar con un coche para ellos no es grande. Quiero lograr una combinación de una iglesia activa laica y las devociones tradicionales. La iglesia no son solo los sacerdotes y las monjas, es la gente de Dios.

Necesitamos a todos para lograr una iglesia viva que se extienda en el mundo”, afirmó el Padre Pat. Lamentablemente, los deseos de ver una sensible mejora en el programa durante el próximo año podrían verse afectados por la suspensión momentánea, y sin fecha de reinicio a corto plazo, que posiblemente impida consolidar los logros adquiridos en los primeros meses de 2020.

INCLUSIÓN Y FLEXIBILIDAD

“Tengo catequistas que solo hablan español y otros que hablan solamente inglés, pero gracias a una dinámica de inclusión que hemos implementado el programa ha resultado ser todo un éxito”, dijo el Padre Pat. También el aprendizaje de la cultura de la comunidad hispana jugó un papel importante en la aceptación e integración de los jóvenes y sus familias.

“La Iglesia de Estados Unidos tiene una estructura organizada, muchas reglas, lo que es muy bueno; pero no es muy flexible para la administración de sacramentos”, explica el Padre Pat. “La cultura en la comunidad hispana nos dice: primero que todo soy católico. Pero no tiene la misma relación de pertenencia a una sola parroquia. Una vez atienden la Misa en San Lorenzo, otra en Juana de Arco, y la otra en

Gracias a una propuesta del Padre Patrick Cahill, el grupo juvenil inició realizando sus reuniones este año todos los miércoles a las 5:30 de la tarde. La iniciativa tuvo gran aceptación y los resultados comenzaron a reflejarse de inmediato en los niveles de asistencia.

CÉSAR HURTADO | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

San Eugenio. Cuando hay una quinceañera, una boda, un funeral, realmente no interesa y se atiende el servicio en cualquier parroquia. Sin embargo, en la cultura de Estados Unidos el sentir es: ‘mi parroquia es San Eugenio, no puedo atender la misa en otra parte’. Bueno, ser católico es ser católico y la Misa es la Misa, aquí o en cualquier otra parte”.

Por ello, asegura que sigue la regla “de lo que es lo mejor para la familia en un caso particular”. Desde su punto de vista, siente que no puede decir a la familia: “si tu no asistes a esta parroquia no puedo realizar el funeral aquí”.

“Necesitamos ser flexibles con la realidad de las familias.

Muchas familias con hijos en nuestra escuela viven en Arden. Ellos conducen desde allí dos veces al día, cinco veces por semana. Es un trayecto muy largo. Por eso que debemos ajustarnos a la realidad de cada comunidad”, aseguró.

UNA NECESIDAD

Para el Padre Pat es necesario contar con un grupo juvenil para la formación espiritual, misionera y “como hijos de Dios” de los jóvenes. Asegura que “esta experiencia de hacer comunidad entre personas de la misma edad, esa evangelización entre ellos

mismos, es muy interesante porque tienen una experiencia de inclusión.

“Los jóvenes tienen energía y es posible que puedan dar este regalo a su parroquia, para la cual esta herramienta es muy poderosa”. “Mi sueño que los jóvenes de mi parroquia puedan contar con más programas”, afirma.

Sin embargo, reconoce que “esta carga de hormonas” que llevan los jóvenes podría significar un riesgo. “Pero la Biblia tiene una frase que se repite muchas veces.

Doscientas veces se repite ‘no temas’. Es posible tener un corazón, sentimiento y fe dispuestos, pero a la vez tener temor y ansiedad. Jesús dijo en su transfiguración ‘no temas’. Cuando yo era joven estoy seguro que tomé acciones y decisiones imprudentes. Puedo decir, es parte de la vida, es parte del crecimiento”.

“Para mi es muy importante contar con la confianza de la comunidad y darle la participación que requiere”, sentenció.

Más online En www.facebook.com/CNHEspañol: Puede ver una galería de fotografías de este reportaje

April 24, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

Caballeros de Colón establece concejo en parroquia Guadalupe CÉSAR HURTADO REPORTERO

Tras algunos meses de reuniones y trabajo constante, más de una treintena de miembros de la orden Caballeros de Colón lograron conformar el recientemente reconocido Concejo 17501 con sede en la parroquia Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe.

Pablo Morera, quien ostenta el grado de ‘Gran Caballero’ de la orden Caballeros de Colón, dijo que la ceremonia en que se instituyó el flamante concejo “fue la primera juramentación, totalmente en español, de grados múltiples en la historia de los Caballeros de Colón”, y “un orgullo para todos nosotros como nuevo concejo”.

Los miembros, que mayoritariamente pertenecían al concejo de la parroquia San Vicente de Paúl, en conjunto con otros integrantes de diferentes parroquias, recibieron el espaldarazo fundamental del Padre Gregorio Gay, párroco de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe.

“Gracias a Dios todo empezó con el apoyo de nuestro párroco, Padre Gregorio, que es el que ha trabajado duro con eso.

Además, otros compañeros han apoyado y juntos estamos dándole fuerte a todo este proceso”, dijo Morera.

Pese a que oficialmente la primera reunión convocada como concejo debió ser cancelada por las restricciones de convocatoria masiva decretadas por las autoridades políticas y sanitarias de gobierno, la junta directiva que integran quince de sus miembros no ha bajado la guardia, ha seguido trabajando intensamente y ha conseguido que el número de sus miembros se incremente sustantivamente. “Al momento somos ya casi cincuenta miembros”, subrayó Morera.

QUIÉNES SON LOS CABALLEROS DE COLÓN

A finales del siglo XIX, el Padre Michael J. McGivney, párroco de una comunidad de inmigrantes irlandeses en New Haven, Connecticut, tuvo la idea de proteger a las familias de sus feligreses. McGivney era testigo de lo que le sucedía a las familias inmigrantes cuando el padre de familia moría por razones de trabajo o enfermedad, dejando en la orfandad a sus deudos. Por ello se propuso proveer de un seguro para cuidar a la viuda y a los huérfanos sobrevivientes.

Si bien ese fue el origen, la caridad es el principio fundamental de la organización.

Ofrecen tiempo como voluntarios para servir a sus parroquias y comunidades, mientras comparten su fe católica.

Según informó Morera, actualmente el concejo trabaja en una campaña para proveer de alimentos a la Casa Marillac, institución benéfica de la parroquia Guadalupe que entrega despensas a las familias necesitadas de alimentos. “Eso es muy importante, especialmente ahora, en los momentos en los que atravesamos la pandemia del COVID-19”, añadió.

Morera afirma que los requisitos para poder ser parte de los Caballeros de Colón son básicos. “Solo se requiere ser mayor de 18 años, ser católico y acatar las decisiones del Santo Padre”.

Los Caballeros se reúnen una vez al mes y, aunque “es importante que asistan todos, no es obligatorio”, aclara el Gran Caballero.

Para mayores informes sobre la orden o cómo integrarse a ella, “puede contactar a Héctor Arandas, secretario, hablar con el Padre Gregorio, con Samuel Llanas, o llamarme a mí, Pablo Morera, al (980) 2292456. Podemos encontrarnos y explicarle todo lo que necesita conocer sobre los Caballeros”, finalizó Morera.

SUPERINTENDENTE VIENE DE LA PÁGINA 12

Charlotte.

La diócesis tiene una combinación única de escuelas parroquiales, regionales y centralizadas, dijo el padre Putnam, con nueve escuelas en el sistema de escuelas católicas del área de Mecklenburg, una escuela secundaria regional y nueve escuelas parroquiales. “Esto puede crear desafíos y oportunidades”.

El comité cree que Monroe puede reunir estos elementos separados “para colaborar y avanzar de manera que nos ayuden a continuar el buen trabajo que se ha logrado hasta este punto, así como que también nos coloque en una posición para crecer y prosperar en el futuro”.

“Es evidente que existe una fuerte tradición de excelencia en nuestras escuelas católicas”, dijo Monroe, “y que hay excelentes padres, maestros, personal, líderes escolares y exalumnos que están comprometidos a ayudar a nuestros estudiantes a convertirse en discípulos misioneros que cambiarán el mundo para mejor”.

Monroe es originario de Ohio y tiene un título en ciencias políticas y economía de Christendom College, una maestría en educación otorgada por la Universidad Marymount y un doctorado en liderazgo y política en escuelas católicas de la Universidad Católica.

Dijo que planea comenzar su gestión enfocándose en una planificación estratégica basada en información, para que las escuelas, sus parroquias y comunidades de fe relacionadas puedan florecer.

Anotó que él, su esposa Eily y su hijo Cyrus esperan unirse a la acogedora comunidad de la diócesis.

“Me siento honrado de haber sido elegido para servir a la comunidad escolar diocesana en este cargo y construiré sobre el buen trabajo de los líderes que me antecedieron”, dijo.

“En el futuro, tenemos una gran

MISERICORDIA VIENE DE LA PÁGINA 12

CÉSAR HURTADO | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Maestras de Escuelas Católicas participaron en encuentro local CHARLOTTE — Maestras de las Escuelas Católicas de la Diócesis de Charlotte participaron del tercer encuentro de profesores de español y ESL del condado Mecklenburg. La cita fue convocada por diversas organizaciones sin fines de lucro el pasado 12 de marzo, previa a la restricciones de reunión y distanciamiento social decretadas por las autoridades de gobierno y sanitarias locales, estatales y federales. En la gráfica aparecen, de izquierda a derecha, Addy-Jean Mullis de la Escuela San Gabriel; Mercedes Linares, de la Escuela Nuestra Señora de la Asunción; Yasmin Jones, de la Escuela San Patricio; Rafael Prieto, editor del diario Qué Pasa Mi Gente y organizador del evento; Alejandra Elliot, Carmen Garmilla y Socky Davaz, de la escuela secundaria Charlotte Catholic; y Angélica Hurtado, coordinadora de reclutamiento y marketing de las Escuelas Católicas de la Diócesis de Charlotte. Esta fue la primera ocasión en que las maestras de las escuelas católicas diocesanas compartieron sus experiencias con otras maestras de la región metropolitana de la Ciudad Reina.

El obispo Jugis recordó las dos intercesiones solemnes adicionales que se rezaron en todo el mundo durante la liturgia del Viernes Santo, una oración intercesora a Dios por los enfermos del Coronavirus y otra por los que han muerto a causa de él.

Estas oraciones especiales fueron “una hermosa señal de misericordia en el mundo de hoy”, dijo. “Orar, pedir e interceder ante Dios por el sufrimiento de la humanidad, ese es el ministerio de misericordia de la Iglesia en medio de este mundo”.

“La misericordia de Dios habita dentro de su Iglesia”, dijo, “y Dios quiere que su Iglesia sea su presencia misericordiosa en el mundo. Él quiere que la Iglesia sea su misericordia para todos los pueblos del mundo”.

“A través de nuestras oraciones (y) a través del testimonio de nuestras vidas, llevamos el mensaje de esperanza, vida nueva y salvación del Salvador resucitado a todos”.

El Obispo Jugis rogó a “quienes sepan que Dios es misericordioso, que hayan experimentado personalmente que Dios es misericordioso, amable y

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historia que contar, y debemos aprovechar las oportunidades que se nos presenten en toda la diócesis para compartir quiénes somos: escuelas católicas auténticas que luchan por la excelencia y calidad en todo lo que hacemos“.

“Los efectos desafortunados del coronavirus se han generalizado, y hay serios desafíos como resultado de esta pandemia. Sin embargo, también hemos visto una gran unión de nuestras comunidades escolares y parroquiales a través de recursos online y comunicación creativa, y ha sido una bendición realizar plenamente la solidaridad que compartimos como parte de la Iglesia Católica universal. Esta unidad y mensaje de Una Iglesia reafirma nuestro compromiso de garantizar que todos los estudiantes y familias que buscan una educación católica tengan un lugar en nuestras escuelas”.

El Vicario de Educación de la Diócesis, Padre Roger Arnsparger, dijo que, “durante el año pasado, la diócesis, la Oficina de Escuelas Católicas, los pastores, directores y personal de las Escuelas Católicas han sido muy bien atendidos por la Sra. Mixer y su equipo. Estamos agradecidos con ella por su dedicación y esfuerzo profesional y creativo en su servicio como superintendente interina. Estoy particularmente agradecido por el excelente trabajo del comité de búsqueda y espero dar la bienvenida al Dr. Monroe como nuevo superintendente. Su experiencia, sus credenciales, su historial de servicio en las escuelas católicas y su entusiasmo por la importante misión de las escuelas católicas servirán a la diócesis. El ministerio de las escuelas católicas en la misión evangelizadora de la Iglesia Católica es un don extraordinario de los católicos del pasado y presente. Las escuelas católicas son un ministerio profundo y efectivo para formar discípulos misioneros de nuestro Señor. Le damos la bienvenida al Dr. Monroe a nuestra continua labor privilegiada de ofrecer escuelas católicas efectivas y de calidad en nuestra diócesis”.

nuestro salvador; que nosotros, que hemos experimentado que Jesús es misericordioso, seamos embajadores de su misericordia para con los demás hoy, en este Domingo de la Divina Misericordia, y siempre”.

Más online En www.youtube.com/DioceseOfCharlotte: Vea la versión completa de la Misa celebrada por el Obispo Jugis en la Catedral San Patricio, con ocasión de la celebración del Domingo de la Divina Misericordia

Let’s keep talking.

16

catholicnewsherald.com | April 24, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

San Marcos, el Evangelista

Lecturas Diarias

CONDENSADO DE ACIPRENSA

ABRIL 26-MAYO 2

El 25 de abril la Iglesia Católica celebra la Fiesta de San Marcos Evangelista, discípulo de San Pedro y autor del segundo evangelio del Nuevo Testamento.

Judío de la zona de Jerusalén, Marcos era un niño cuando Jesús predicaba y parece que su familia era la dueña de la casa donde Jesús celebró la Última Cena, la misma donde estaban los apóstoles reunidos el día de Pentecostés cuando recibieron al Espíritu Santo en forma de lenguas de fuego. Es probable que fuera uno de los primeros bautizados por San Pedro el día de Pentecostés.

San Marcos llegó a ser secretario y hombre de confianza de San Pedro.

Como le escuchaba siempre sus sermones, que no eran sino el recordar los hechos y las palabras de Jesús, Marcos fue aprendiéndolos muy bien.

Domingo: Hechos 2:14, 22-33, 1 Pedro 1:17-21, Lucas 24:13-35; Lunes: Hechos 6:8-15, Juan 6:22-29; Martes (San Pedro Chanel, San Luis Grignion de Montfort): Hechos 7:51-8:1, Juan 6:3035; Miércoles (Sa. Catalina de Siena): Hechos 8:1-8, Juan 6:35-40; Jueves (San Pío V): Hechos 8:26-40, Juan 6:4451; Viernes (San José Obrero): Hechos 9:1-20, Juan 6:5259; Sábado (San Atanasio): Hechos 9:31-42, Juan 6:60-69

SU EVANGELIO

Se cree que por los años 60-70 D.C., a pedido de los cristianos de Roma, escribió en griego lo que acerca de Jesucristo había oído predicar al apóstol. Esto es lo que se llama ‘Evangelio según San Marcos’, el más corto de los cuatro evangelios.

Sus 16 capítulos están llenos de narraciones muy vivas, gráficas, salpicadas de detalles interesantes. Parece estar hablando un testigo ocular que se ha fijado en todo y lo repite con agrado. Es el reflejo de lo que San Pedro presenció y que se le ha quedado grabado en su memoria.

Se fija más en los hechos de Jesús que en sus discursos. Sus narraciones son agradables por lo frescas y espontáneas. Parece un reportero gráfico narrando lo que sus ojos vieron y sus oídos escucharon. Presenta atractivos cuadros: gestos, miradas, sentimientos de Jesús.

Dicen los especialistas que con este escrito contribuyó a que muchos millones de lectores se entusiasmen por la persona de nuestro Salvador.

San Marcos tiene 105 paisajes y de ellos aparecen 93 en Mateo y 85 en Lucas. De las 746 frases de Marcos, San Mateo reproduce 606 y copia el 51% de las palabras que emplea Marcos. San Lucas reproduce en su evangelio 320 de las 746 frases de San Marcos. Solamente hay 24 frases de San Marcos que no se encuentran ni en Mateo ni en Lucas.

Por eso es que el Evangelio de San Marcos es un libro verdaderamente importante.

MAYO 3-9

Domingo: Hechos 2:14, 36-41, 1 Pedro 2:20-25, Juan 10:1-10; Lunes: Hechos 11:1-18, Juan 10:11-18; Martes: Hechos 11:19-26, Juan 10:22-30; Miércoles: Hechos 12:24-13:5, Juan 12:44-50; Jueves: Hechos 13:13-25, Juan 13:1620; Viernes: Hechos 13:26-33, Juan 14:1-6; Sábado: Hechos 13:44-52, Juan 14:7-14

AMIGO DE PEDRO Y PABLO

Era primo de San Bernabé y acompañó a este y a San Pablo en su primer viaje misionero a Antioquía. Según palabras de San Pablo, al llegar a regiones de riesgo donde “había peligro de ladrones, peligro de asaltos en los caminos, peligro de asaltos en la soledad” (2 Cor.), Marcos se atemorizó y se volvió otra vez a su patria.

Más adelante, Pablo se rehusó aceptar a Marcos, Bernabé rompió su asociación misionera con San Pablo y se fue a Chipre con su primo. Años después, San Marcos y San Pablo se juntarían en otro viaje misionero y volverían a ser amigos.

San Pedro llama a Marcos en sus cartas: “Hijo mío”. Y San Pablo, cuando escribe a Timoteo desde su prisión en Roma, le dice: “Tráigame a Marcos, porque necesito de su colaboración”. Los historiadores afirman que fue un compañero muy apreciado por los dos apóstoles.

Se cuenta que San Marcos fue nombrado Obispo de Alejandría en Egipto, donde fundó su famosa escuela cristiana y es venerado como Patrono de los Coptos. En esa ciudad fue martirizado por los enemigos de la religión un 25 de abril.

La ciudad de Venecia, Italia, lo eligió como patrono y construyó en su honor la bellísima Basílica Catedral de San Marcos, donde reposan sus reliquias.

A San Marcos se le representa como un león alado en relación a uno de los cuatro seres vivientes del Apocalipsis. Hay quienes consideran que esto se debe a que el Evangelio de San Marcos inicia con Juan Bautista clamando en el desierto, a modo de un león que ruge.

MAYO 10-16

FOTO CORTESÍA MUSEO DEL PRADO, MADRID

San Marcos, Evangelista. Óleo de Francisco Sans Cabot. Barcelona, 1828 - Madrid, 1881

Más online En www.basilicasanmarco.it: Conozca más de la vida del santo evangelista y la Basílica Catedral de Venecia

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Domingo: Hechos 6:1-7, 1 Pedro 2:4-9, Juan 14:1-12; Lunes: Hechos 14:5-18, Juan 14:21-26; Martes (Santos Nereo y Aquileo, San Pancracio): Hechos 14:19-28, Juan 14:27-31; Miércoles (Nuestra Señora de Fátima): Hechos 15:1-6, Juan 15:1-8; Jueves (San Matías Apóstol): Hechos 1:15-17, 20-26, Juan 15:9-17; Viernes (San Isidoro): Hechos 15:22-31, Juan 15:12-17; Sábado: Hechos 16:110, Juan 15:18-21

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

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April 24, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

Catholic Book Pick

On TV

‘Abandonment to Divine Providence’ by Fr. Jean-Pierre de Caussade “Let go and let God.” This popular phrase captures the essence of Father Jean-Pierre de Caussade’s 18th century treatise on trust, “Abandonment to Divine Providence.”

Do you doubt? Do you suffer? Are you anxious about the trials of life?

Father de Caussade offers the one sure solution to any spiritual difficulty: abandon yourself entirely to God by embracing the duties of your station in life.

With wisdom and gentleness, he teaches how to practice complete submission to the will of God in every situation, whether we are beginners or seasoned travelers on the way of perfection.

True abandonment, he explains, is a trusting, peaceful, and childlike surrender to the guidance of grace.

At www.tanbooks.com: Order your copy of “Abandonment to Divine Providence.”

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n Friday, April 24, 8 p.m. (EWTN) “Life and Times of Sister Faustina.” Born in Poland in 1905 as Helena Kowalska, she is now known as Blessed Sister Mary Faustina, “The Apostle of Divine Mercy.” Father Seraphim Michalenko, vice postulator for the cause of canonization for Blessed Faustina for North America, explains in detail this re-enactment of her life and the Divine Mercy Novena. n Saturday, April 25, 2 p.m. (EWTN) “Messiah: Exiled by the Waters of Babylon.” Through 70 years of slavery, exile and defeat, Israel clings to the promise of a Messiah who will conquer their enemies, free them from oppression and build a temple that will never be destroyed. n Saturday, April 25, 8 p.m. (EWTN) “Saint Martin de Porres.” This EWTN original movie present the life and mystical revelations of St. Martin de Porres, the great 17th-century model of Christian love of neighbor. n Sunday, April 26, 6 a.m. (EWTN) “Regina Caeli with Pope Francis.” Pope Francis recites the glorious prayer to Our Lady Queen of Heaven: the Regina Caeli. n Friday, May 1, 1:30 p.m. (EWTN) “Father Joe Walijewski: A Pencil in Our Lord’s Hand.” The life and mission of Father Joseph Walijewski, a priest from Wisconsin who tirelessly served the poor in South America, and his recent cause for beatification and canonization. n Saturday, May 2, 3 p.m. (EWTN) “Marian Procession from the Holy Land.” A monthly rosary procession from the site of the

Annunciation and Incarnation in Nazareth. n Saturday, May 2, 8 p.m. (EWTN) “Apparitions of Fatima.” The apparitions of Mary to three shepherd children in Fatima, Portugal, are brought to life in this film about Our Lady’s message of repentance, mercy and devotion to her Son. n Saturday, May 2, 10 p.m. (EWTN) “A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing.” A look back on the life, ideals and works of 1960s community activist Saul Alinsky through the lens of a Catholic perspective. n Monday, May 4, 1:30 p.m. (EWTN) “Saints of China: Martyrs of the Middle Kingdom.”

The martyr saints of China remained strong in their faith unto death. Dr. Anthony Clark tells the heroic stories of three martyrs of the Paris Foreign Missions: St. Jean-Pierre Neel, St. August Chapdelaine and St. Jean-Gabriel Dufresse.

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN (Never known to fail) O Most Beautiful Flower of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother.

O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make request).

There are none that can withstand your power. O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times).

Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3 times).

3 Our Father, 3 Hail Mary, 3 Glory Be Say this prayer for 3 consecutive days.

You must publish it, and it will be granted to you.

Thank you, M.K.

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Our nation 18

catholicnewsherald.com | April 24, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Reporting system to record abuse complaints against bishops launched DENNIS SADOWSKI CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A reporting system accepting sexual misconduct allegations against U.S. bishops and eparchs is in place.

Called the Catholic Bishops Abuse Reporting Service, or CBAR, it incorporates a website and a toll-free telephone number through which individuals can file reports regarding a bishop. The website is ReportBishopAbuse. org. Calls can be placed at 800-276-1562.

The nationwide system is being implemented by individual dioceses under the direction of each respective cardinal, archbishop or bishop. The information gathered will be protected through enhanced encryption.

Denver-based Convercent developed the reporting system under a two-year contract with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. The company specializes in ethics and compliance management for businesses and organizations.

Under the system, the company gathers information and routes reports to the appropriate Church authority consistent with canon law. It does not conduct any investigation.

Approved by the U.S. bishops in June at their spring general assembly,

the reporting mechanism meets the requirements established by Pope Francis in his “motu proprio” “Vos Estis Lux Mundi” (“You are the light of the world”) to have a way of receiving reports of sexual misconduct by a bishop.

“Motu proprio” is a Latin phrase that means “on one’s own initiative.” Popes use it to signal a special personal interest in a subject.

The system works like this: n Calls initially will come into a central phone bank, where trained personnel will ask for information about the allegation being made including the name of the person making the report and his or her contact information. People also will have the option of filing a report online if they do not want to call. People will not be required to give their name if they wish to remain anonymous. n The information gathered will be forwarded to the appropriate metropolitan, or archbishop, responsible for each diocese in a province. Allegations against a metropolitan will be forwarded to the senior suffragan bishop in the appropriate province. The U.S. has 32 metropolitans.

Each province has one archdiocese and several dioceses. n The information also will be forwarded to a layperson designated to assist the bishop in receiving allegations.

Your Life’s Journey…

n After review, the metropolitan or senior suffragan will send the report the apostolic nuncio in Washington. n The nuncio is required to send the report and the metropolitan’s assessment to the Vatican, which has 30 days to determine if a formal investigation is warranted. If so, a bishop will be authorized to oversee an investigation. n When an investigation is ordered qualified experts, including laypeople will conduct it. An investigation is expected to be completed within 90 days and forwarded to the Vatican. n Vatican officials will review the findings of the investigation and determine the appropriate process leading to a final judgment.

As each case is filed, the person reporting an incident will be given a case number and password which can be used to follow progress of their particular case.

Individuals who file a report also will be encouraged to contact local law enforcement if they believe they have been a victim of a crime.

Anthony Picarello, USCCB associate general secretary, told the bishops during their fall general assembly in November the system is designed to filter complaints so that only those addressed in the “motu proprio” will be forwarded.

Under CBAR, people with complaints

about any other actions of a bishop, such as diocesan assignments, Church closings, liturgy or homily content, will be asked to contact the appropriate diocese or eparchy directly.

Allegations of sexual abuse by a priest, deacon, religious, diocesan staff member or volunteer, will be directed to the local diocesan or eparchial victim assistance coordinator under the process that has been in place under the 2002 “Charter for Protection of Children and Young People.”

Pope Francis released his “motu proprio” last May following a worldwide meeting of bishops’ conference leaders at the Vatican early in 2019 to discuss the Church’s response to clergy sexual abuse.

The document specifically addresses allegations of sexual misconduct and other accusations of actions or omissions intended to interfere with or avoid civil or Church investigations of such misconduct by clergy.

The “motu proprio” requires dioceses and eparchies worldwide to establish “one or more public, stable and easily accessible systems for submission of reports” by May 31.

Online At accountability.charlottediocese.org: Get information about the secure, 24/7 hotline for reporting child sexual abuse by a bishop

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April 24, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief Head of FDA urged to ensure any COVID vaccine be free of abortion connection WASHINGTON, D.C. — The chairmen of four U.S. bishops’ committees, joined by the leaders of several health care, bioethics and pro-life organizations, “urgently and respectfully” implored the commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to ensure any vaccines developed for the coronavirus “are free from any connection to abortion. To be clear, we strongly support efforts to develop an effective, safe, and widely available vaccine as quickly as possible,” the leaders said in an April 17 letter to Dr. Stephen M. Hahn, the FDA commissioner.

“However, we also strongly urge our federal government to ensure that fundamental moral principles are followed in the development of such vaccines, most importantly, the principle that human life is sacred and should never be exploited,” they said. Copies of the letter were sent to President Donald Trump, Vice President Mike Pence and Health and Humans Services Secretary Alex M. Azar. The text of the letter was released late April 17 by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. The chairman who signed it and their respective USCCB committees were: Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City, Kan., Committee on Pro-Life Activities; Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, Domestic Justice and Human Development; Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades of Fort Wayne-South Bend, Ind., Committee on Doctrine; and Bishop John F. Doerfler of Marquette, Mich., the Subcommittee on Health Care Issues, which is a subcommittee of the doctrine committee.

Coakley: Oklahoma City remains ‘beacon of healing’ 25 years after bombing OKLAHOMA CITY — The nation will never forget “the 168 innocent lives taken, including 19 children,” in the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City April 19, 1995, said Archbishop Paul S. Coakley. “These were our family members, our friends, co-workers and neighbors. We are grateful for their lives and we will never forget their sacrifice,” the archbishop said.

“We also remember three unborn children who perished that day.” “The evil that visited our city 25 years ago sought to strike fear in our hearts and destroy our way of life,” the head of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City said in an April 16 statement. “But we are a resilient community, a people of faith, who overcame evil with goodness. We refuse to be conquered by hatred,” he said. “We remain grateful for the first responders and all those who rushed in to assist us that day and in the months following.

We are grateful for the faith that has sustained us and the generosity of so many who have supported us.” Archbishop Coakley celebrated a noon Mass April 17 at St. Joseph Old Cathedral in downtown Oklahoma City to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the bombing.

FEMA issues guidelines to ensure ‘equal protection’ for all COVID patients WASHINGTON, D.C. — National Right to Life April 16 praised the Federal Emergency Management Agency for issuing guidelines to ensure equal protection for all patients with COVID-19 to prevent rationing of health care.

“We thank President (Donald) Trump and FEMA Administrator Phil Gaynor for efforts to protect

the most vulnerable in our society,” said Carol Tobias, president of National Right to Life, adding that the guidelines “will help ensure that regardless of ability or disability, age, origin or chronic health issues, patients are treated equally.” Titled “Ensuring Civil Rights During the COVID-19 Response,” the FEMA guidelines for its “state, local, tribal and territorial partners” were issued in its Civil Rights Bulletin. They state: “Make medical treatment decisions, including denials of care under crisis standards of care and allocation of ventilators, after an individualized consideration of each person, free from stereotypes and biases, including generalizations and judgments about the individual’s quality of life or relative value to society, based on the individual’s disability, age, race, income level or any protected basis. “This individualized consideration should be based on current objective medical evidence and the expressed views of the patients themselves as opposed to unfounded assumptions,” the guidelines said.

New Mexico bishop to allow public Masses with restrictions WASHINGTON, D.C. — One month after Bishop Peter Baldacchino of Las Cruces, N.M., announced there would no longer be public Masses in the diocese to curb the spread of the coronavirus, he reversed his decision saying public Masses could resume, with restrictions.

In an April 15 letter to diocesan priests, he said would allow public Masses that adhered to the governor’s restrictions through either outdoor services – with people in cars – or services inside churches with no more than five people present and practicing social distancing. Both possibilities, he said, would comply with the governor’s restrictions on public gatherings.

He said the need to do this stemmed from a prevailing spiritual hunger, saying: “While we run a daily count of the physical deaths, we are overlooking those who are dead interiorly.

Depriving the faithful of the nourishment offered through the Eucharist was indeed a difficult decision, one that I deemed necessary until I had further clarity regarding our current state of affairs, but it cannot become the ‘status quo’ for the foreseeable future,” he wrote. The bishop said he had determined a “safe way to proceed” with the acknowledgment that the state shutdown could likely last for some time.

Vulnerable people seeing rapid COVID-19 response from U.S. aid agencies WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S.-based aid groups are devoting extra resources to refugees and migrant people globally who are vulnerable to the new coronavirus. Efforts by Catholic Relief Services, Malteser International, Jesuit Refugee Service and AVSI-USA are focusing on basic education about the virus, sanitation and hygiene and boosting staff capacity to ensure an effective response to COVID-19, the illness caused by the virus. The message being shared is the same as that in the developed world: maintain social distancing, wash hands, and cover sneezes and coughs. The lack of clean water and soap in many poor communities has made the work more difficult to carry out, however, agency officials said. At the same time, Aid to the Church in Need announced it will provide $5.5 million in emergency funding to priests and nuns who care for the most vulnerable communities around the world but who have lost their own basic means of subsistence because of the pandemic. Sean Callahan, CEO and president of CRS, said in a statement the agency, which is the U.S. bishops’ overseas relief and development agency, is utilizing its relationships with partners around the world to respond as quickly as possible to the pandemic. Particular emphasis is being placed on addressing the needs of older adults and vulnerable children, refugees and migrants, people with compromised immune systems

and their caregivers, as well as other high-risk groups. “Our COVID-19 response will draw upon our experience in acute health emergencies,” Callahan said, citing his agency’s work to respond to the Ebola outbreak in West Africa and the HIV crisis. “Our work will be informed by the local context and focus on some of the most vulnerable communities.

Court to hear Little Sisters, Catholic school cases by teleconference WASHINGTON, D.C. — For the first time in its history, the Supreme Court announced April 13 it will conduct 10 oral arguments by teleconference in May. Among the arguments it will hear are cases involving the Little Sisters of the Poor and California Catholic schools.

On April 15, the court announced that it would hear arguments for the Little Sisters case on May 6 at 10 a.m., and for the California Catholic schools case May 11 at 11 a.m. In announcing the decision to proceed with some of the arguments already postponed due to the stay-at-home guidelines in place with the coronavirus, the court said in is April 13 news release that it was “keeping with public health guidance in response to COVID-19” and that “the justices and counsel will all participate remotely. The court anticipates providing a live audio feed of these arguments to news media,” the release said. The last time the justices met publicly was March 9. They have issued opinions on the court’s website and met by teleconference calls.

The court had initially been scheduled to hear arguments April 29 in the case Little Sisters of the Poor v. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

19

The sisters were returning to the high court because of state challenges to the Trump administration’s decision to allow religious employers to opt out of the Affordable Health Care’s contraceptive mandate.

Bishops criticize governor for signing abortion measure on Good Friday RICHMOND, Va. — Expressing sadness that Virginia Democratic Gov. Ralph Northam signed the Reproductive Health Protection Act, which was passed by the state’s Senate and House of Delegates, Bishops Michael F. Burbidge of Arlington and Barry C. Knestout of Richmond criticized him for the day he chose to sign it into law. “That he would take this action on Good Friday, one of the most solemn days for Christians, is a particular affront to all who profess the Gospel of life,” the bishop said in a statement released April 11. The legislation repeals health and safety protections at abortion facilities, allows non-physicians to perform first-trimester abortions and removes essential informed consent requirements, including the opportunity to view an ultrasound.

“Over the past eight years, abortions have decreased by 42 percent in Virginia,” the bishops said. “Tragically but undoubtedly, these changes to our state law will reverse that lifesaving progress and increase the number of abortions.” Throughout the legislative session, the Virginia Catholic Conference had lobbied representatives to defeat the legislation.

— Catholic News Service

Our world 20

catholicnewsherald.com | April 24, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Longing for Communion can be exercise in spiritual growth, Jesuit says

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief Nova Scotia archbishop offers condolences after mass shooting TORONTO — With 19 deaths so far confirmed from the largest mass shooting in Canadian history, Halifax-Yarmouth Archbishop Anthony Mancini offered condolences to the families of those killed, particularly the family of RCMP Constable Heidi Stevenson. “Her death in the line of duty indicates the highest sacrifice that one can make on behalf of the citizens she served,” Archbishop Mancini said in a letter issued April 20 after a 51-year-old man went on a shooting rampage in Nova Scotia. Stevenson was the first victim of the weekend shooting spree identified by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. The archbishop sought to extend a word of hope to all Nova Scotians. “Such a tragic event, involving the meaningless death of so many of our fellow citizens, has shocked us all,” he said, “adding more collective suffering to an already tragic time in our province, our country and our personal lives.

Pope postpones World Meeting of Families, World Youth Day VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis has agreed with a recommendation by the Dicastery for Laity, the Family and Life to postpone by one year the next gatherings of the World Meeting of Families and World Youth Day. “Because of the current health situation and its consequences on the movement and gatherings of young people and families,” the World Meeting of Families in Rome will be pushed back until June 2022 and World Youth Day in Lisbon, Portugal, will be pushed back until August 2023, the Vatican announced.

Coronavirus commission created by pope to respond to pandemic VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis created a new commission that will confront the challenges the world is facing in battling the coronavirus pandemic and what it will inevitably face in its aftermath, the Vatican announced. In a statement published April 15, the Vatican said the goal of the commission, which will be led by the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, is “to express the Church’s concern and love for the entire human family in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.” The dicastery will work with other Vatican offices to coordinate the work, which includes “an analysis and a reflection on the socioeconomic and culture challenges of the future and proposed guidelines to address them,” the Vatican said. The commission is divided into five working groups focused on a specific aspect of the pandemic and has met twice with the pope to discuss ways it can help local churches, especially in poor areas, Cardinal Peter Turkson, prefect of the dicastery, said. “The pope is convinced that we are living through an epochal change and he is reflecting on what will follow the crisis, on the economic and social consequences of the pandemic, on what we will have to face and, above all, on how the Church can offer itself as a safe point of reference to the world lost in the face of an unexpected event,” Cardinal Turkson said.

— Catholic News Service

CAROL GLATZ CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

CNS | ALESSANDRO GAROFALO, REUTERS

People watch television at a home in Cisternino, Italy, as Pope Francis gives his extraordinary blessing “urbi et orbi” (to the city and the world) from the atrium of St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican March 27, 2020. The blessing was livestreamed because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Pope: Living faith without sacraments, community is dangerous CAROL GLATZ CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis said the forced isolation devised to stop the COVID-19 pandemic is presenting the danger of people living the faith only for themselves – detached from the sacraments, the Church and the people of God. Online Masses and spiritual Communion do not represent the Church, he said in his homily at his morning Mass in the chapel of his residence April 17.

“This is the Church in a difficult situation that the Lord is allowing, but the ideal of the Church is always with the people and with the sacraments – always,” Pope Francis said.

In his homily, the pope reflected on serious concerns about the faithful not being able to come together as a community to celebrate Mass or to receive the sacraments because of government restrictions against people gathering in groups as part of efforts to stem the spread of the coronavirus.

Masses, prayers and faith-based initiatives have been offered online, and the faithful have been encouraged to make an act of spiritual Communion given their lack of access to the Eucharist, but “this is not the Church,” the pope said.

One’s relationship with Jesus “is intimate; it is personal, but it is in a community,” and this closeness to Christ without community, without the Eucharist, without the people of God assembled together and “without the sacraments is dangerous,” he said.

It is dangerous, he said, because people could start living their relationship with God “for just myself, detached from the people of God.” As the Gospels show, Jesus’ disciples always lived their relationship with the Lord as a community – they gathered “at the table, a sign of community. It was always with the sacrament, with bread,” the pope said.

“I am saying this because someone made me reflect on the danger of this moment

we are living, this pandemic that has made all of us communicate, even in a religious sense, through the media, through means of communication,” he said.

By broadcasting his morning Mass, for example, people are in communion, but they are not “together,” he said.

The very small number of people present at his daily morning Mass will receive the Eucharist, he said, but not the people watching online who will only have “spiritual Communion.”

“This is not the Church,” Pope Francis said.

People are living this “familiarity with the Lord” apart from each other in order to “get out of the tunnel, not to stay in it.”

The pope said it was thanks to an unnamed bishop who “scolded him” and made him think more deeply about the danger of celebrating Mass without the presence and participation of the general public.

He said the bishop wrote to him before Easter when it was announced Mass would be celebrated in an “empty” St. Peter’s Basilica. He said the bishop questioned the decision and asked, when “St. Peter’s is so big, why not put 30 people at least so people can be seen” in the congregation?

The pope said that at first he didn’t understand what this bishop was trying to get at, but then they spoke and the bishop told him to be careful to not make the Church, the sacraments and the people of God something that is only experienced or distributed online.

“The Church, the sacraments and the people of God are concrete,” the pope said.

The faithful’s relationship with God must also stay concrete, as the apostles lived it, as a community and with the people of God, not lived in a selfish way as individuals or lived in a “viral” way that is spread only online.

“May the Lord teach us this intimacy with Him, this familiarity with Him, but in the Church, with the sacraments, with the holy faithful people of God,” he said.

VATICAN CITY — Being unable to receive the Eucharist is a form of sacrifice, but it can also be a time for spiritual growth, said Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi.

The current situation, which many people are experiencing, of forced abstinence from the Eucharist “can become a time of growing in faith, of desire for the gift of sacramental Communion, of solidarity with those who for various reasons cannot benefit from it, of freedom from the sloppiness of habit,” he wrote.

“To understand once again that the Eucharist is a freely given and unexpected gift of the Lord Jesus,” which should be desired with one’s whole heart all the time, “couldn’t this also be the outcome of this disconcerting time?” he asked in an article April 18 in the Vatican newspaper, L’Osservatore Romano.

The article was the second installment of his “Diary of a Crisis” for the newspaper.

The Jesuit priest looked at the Church’s long-standing, but, until recently, more neglected practice of “spiritual Communion” – inviting Jesus into one’s heart and soul when receiving the actual sacrament isn’t possible.

This and other devotional traditions have been in some way overshadowed by the “certainly good” emphasis the past few decades on the faithful taking an active part in Mass.

Physically receiving the Holy Eucharist is extremely important, he wrote, “but it is not the only and indispensable way to unite oneself with Jesus and His Body that is the Church.”

He recalled how mothers and grandmothers from his generation – who would often go to morning Mass every day – would recite traditional prayers of spiritual communion in order to stay united to God throughout their busy day.

During the pandemic when so many people are obliged to go without the Eucharist, many are increasingly feeling how much this “daily bread” is missing from their lives, he wrote.

The Church accepted imposing this sacrifice on the faithful “as a sign of solidarity and participation in what is happening to entire peoples constrained by limitations, sacrifices and suffering from the pandemic,” he wrote.

“Fasting is a sacrifice, but it can be a moment for growth.”

April 24, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

SUPERINTENDENT FROM PAGE 3

archdiocese.

Monroe said he was drawn to the character and culture of the Charlotte diocese.

The diocese has a unique combination of parochial, regional and centralized schools, Father Putnam said, with nine schools in the Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools system, a regional high school, and nine parish-based schools. “This can create both challenges and opportunities.”

The committee believes Monroe can bring these separate elements together “to collaborate and move forward in ways that will assist us in continuing the good work that has been accomplished up to this point as well as place us in a position to grow and flourish in the future,” he said.

“It is evident that there is a strong tradition of excellence in our Catholic schools,” Monroe said, “and that there are great parents, teachers, staff, school leaders and alumni who are committed to helping our students become missionary disciples who will change the world for the better.”

Monroe is an Ohio native with a degree in political science and economics from Christendom College, a master’s degree in education from Marymount University, and a Ph.D. in Catholic school leadership and policy from Catholic University.

He said he plans to begin his tenure by focusing on data-driven strategic planning so that the schools and their related parishes and faith communities can flourish.

He said he, his wife Eily, and son Cyrus look forward to joining the welcoming community of the diocese.

“I am honored to have been chosen to serve the diocesan school community in

MERCY FROM PAGE 3

an intercessory prayer to God for those sickened by the coronavirus and for those who have died from it.

These special prayers were “a beautiful sign of mercy in the world today,” he said.

“Praying, petitioning and interceding with God for suffering humanity – the Church’s ministry of mercy in the midst of this world.”

“The mercy of God dwells within His

this role and will build upon the good work of the leaders before me,” he said.

“Moving forward, we have a great story to tell, and we must seize opportunities across the diocese to share who we are: Authentic Catholic schools striving for excellence and quality in all that we do.

“The unfortunate effects of the coronavirus have been widespread, and there are serious challenges as a result of this pandemic. However, we have also seen a great coming together of our school and parish communities through online resources and creative communication, and it has been a grace to fully realize the solidarity we share as a part of the universal Catholic Church. This unity and message of One Church reaffirms our commitment to ensuring that all students and families who seek a Catholic education have a place in our schools.”

The diocese’s Vicar of Education, Father Roger Arnsparger, said, “During the past year, the diocese, the Catholic Schools Office, the Catholic schools’ pastors, principals and staffs have been very well served by Mrs. Mixer and her team. We are grateful to her for her dedicated, professional and creative efforts in serving as the interim superintendent. I am grateful to the fine work of the search committee and I look forward to welcoming Dr. Monroe as the new superintendent. His experience, credentials, past service in Catholic schools, and enthusiasm for the important mission of Catholic schools will serve the diocese well. The ministry of Catholic schools in the evangelization mission of the Catholic Church is an extraordinary gift from past and present Catholics. Catholic schools are a profound and effective ministry for forming missionary disciples of our Lord.

We welcome Dr. Monroe in our continued labors in the privilege of offering quality and effective Catholic schools in our diocese.”

Grade School Principal St. Michael Catholic School in Gastonia, NC is a PK- 8th grade parish school seeking a principal with educational experience to implement a classical liberal arts curriculum while strengthening collaborative relationships with current school families. With the support of the pastor, the school is interested in expanding its enrollment while maintaining its small, school-family environment. St. Michael is proud of its reputation for providing a rigorous, faith-based formation that leads to graduates becoming leaders at their respective high schools and beyond.

The candidate must be a practicing Catholic who supports and upholds the teachings of the Catholic Church in word and deed. The candidate will be expected to become a registered and active member of the parish.

A Master’s degree or higher in Educational Administration/Supervision or an equivalent is required, or to be earned within two years after being hired.

The candidate must have or be eligible for a North Carolina principal’s

Church,” he said, “and God wants His Church to be His merciful presence in the world. He wants the Church to be His mercy to all peoples in the world.”

“Through our prayers (and) through the witness of our lives, we bring the Risen Savior’s Easter message of hope, new life and salvation to everyone.”

He prayed, “May we who know that God is merciful, may we who have experienced personally that God is merciful and kind and our savior, may we who have experienced that Jesus is mercy, be the ambassadors of His mercy to others – on this Divine Mercy Sunday and always.”

license within two years. Three years of administrative experience is preferred. The ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with a variety of school and parish stakeholders is essential.

Responsibilities of the position include: • Implementing a Catholic liberal arts curriculum • Overseeing and guiding the spiritual development of the school through liturgy, daily prayer, and religion classes • Supervising the instructional program of the school, while exploring educational methods that utilize the “state of the art”, newly-renovated

COVID FROM PAGE 7

parishioners are giving at about 85 percent of the regular collection amount before the pandemic hit.

Kelley emphasized that stewardship is important even if we are not able to go to Mass. “We are still called to give our time and our financial resources. We have a spiritual need to give in gratitude for all the blessings we receive.”

The diocese is also offering grants to parishes with strained finances to cover their operating costs for the duration of the pandemic. The relief funding is available to qualifying parishes that continue to pay regularly scheduled staff members (for those that have them) and do not have sufficient cash reserves to cover the revenue shortfall during the timeframe that their church remains closed.

Weldon explained the effort is designed to provide parishes with the cash needed such that they retain at least 75 percent of current reserves or enough to cover one month’s expenses, whichever is greater, after absorbing losses due to the drop in collections. The funding is by way of a parish grant, which does not have to be repaid.

So far, four parishes have applied for and received this financial relief.

Meanwhile, pastors are thanking those who are continuing to give, especially given the challenging times.

Father John Eckert, pastor of Sacred Heart Church in Salisbury, emailed parishioners after Easter, “Thank you for your continued generosity and support of Sacred Heart Catholic Parish. Please continue to make your offerings, whether online, via the mail, or by dropping off your envelopes. We count on those gifts to keep doing all that we can to proclaim the Good News that Jesus really and truly is risen from the dead. Very excited for when we can celebrate that fact together in person!”

facility which includes new makerspace and STEM labs • Establishing and maintaining on-going communication between school and home.

• Managing the financial and business affairs of the school Please submit by May 13, 2020 a cover letter, resume, professional license, transcripts, and application packet (available at: charlottediocese.org/schools-office/employment-opportunities/) to: Theresa Ramirez

Catholic School Office 1123 S. Church St., Charlotte, NC 20203 704-370-327 tramirez@charlottediocese.org

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catholicnewsherald.com | April 24, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Deacon Matthew Newsome

A

Jesuit Father John Michalowski

Does absence make the heart grow fonder?

s Robert Burns put it, “The best laid plans of mice and men often go astray.” As the coronavirus pandemic caused us to cancel our Catholic Campus Ministry spring retreat, my students and I decided to adapt to the circumstances. The theme of the retreat, which was originally to take place over Palm Sunday weekend, was “Holy Week with the Saints.” Talks would reflect on the events commemorated in the Holy Week liturgies through the lens of different saints. With our students now struggling with how to celebrate Holy Week at home, we decided to resurrect our retreat as a “virtual mission,” with talks, discussion and prayer delivered remotely throughout the week.

Most of the sessions were led by our student leaders, but the final talk on Easter Sunday fell to me. I spoke about two saints: Mary Magdalene and Athanasius. I focused on Mary Magdalene’s words of longing after finding Christ’s tomb empty on that first Easter morning: “They have taken my Lord and I don’t know where they laid Him” (Jn 20:13). Her words express the heartbreak felt by many Catholics celebrating our Lord’s Resurrection without being physically with Him in the Eucharist.

But I also offered comfort in the words of St. Athanasius from one of his Easter letters: Jesus “is present for those who thirst…” and “Whenever anyone seeks Him he is freely admitted to the presence of the Savior.” Christ is present to us in the very act of our longing for Him – not sacramentally, but in a spiritually meaningful way nonetheless.

I talked about how “absence makes the heart grow fonder,” and how our temporary separation from the sacraments can increase our appreciation for Christ’s Presence, especially in the Eucharist. During the discussion that followed, I asked my students if they could share any experience they had of absence making the heart grow fonder. They shared stories of studying abroad and being away from friends, having boyfriends or girlfriends attending different universities, and parents in the military being stationed overseas. One thing they observed is that, while they missed their loved ones, they also quickly got used to their absence. Life goes on, and days may go by without giving the other person much thought. If “absence makes the heart grow fonder” is true, then so is “out of sight, out of mind.”

This is one reason why long-distance relationships are so difficult. No amount of phone calls, video chats or texting can substitute for the real physical presence of someone in your day-to-day life. To make a long-distance relationship work, the couple must be very intentional about maintaining good communication and fostering real affection for one another. That doesn’t happen automatically. It takes effort.

The question I then posed to my students was this: How can we keep Jesus from being “out of sight, out of mind” during this time of isolation? The ideas they shared were very practical. Surround yourself with religious art, so you can frequently look at Jesus and the saints. Listen to sacred music. Read a book about the faith (this is your chance to read that one book you “keep meaning to get to”). Take advantage of livestreamed Masses, not only from your own parish but from around the world. One of my students shared how he’s been participating virtually at Masses offered in Italy, England and Jerusalem.

And, of course, they spoke of the importance of prayer: lectio divina, the rosary, and the Liturgy of the Hours were all mentioned. They all agreed that it is more important

now than ever to maintain a regular schedule of daily prayer. Not being able to rely on the usual routine of community prayer we offer in Campus Ministry, they have found that they have to be much more intentional about their prayer life.

That, to me, is the major lesson in all this. The way we keep Jesus from being “out of sight, out of mind” is to be intentional in our devotion. Absence really can make the heart grow fonder, but only if we take care to kindle the fire of devotion. The above suggestions made by my students are all ways of keeping Christ at the forefront of our hearts and minds. This is what it takes to keep from taking Christ for granted: stirring up that desire for Him

‘If “absence makes the heart grow fonder” is true, then so is “out of sight, out of mind.”

How can we keep Jesus from being “out of sight, out of mind” during this time of isolation?’

“Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder” by John William Godward, 1912

each and every day. And that’s something we ought to be doing throughout our pilgrimage on this earth, whether we are socially isolated or not.

My prayer is that the practices we develop to foster our longing for Christ during this time of isolation may continue to increase our devotion to Him well after this current crisis has ended. This time of spiritual drought can also be a time of renewal. After all, “God works all things for the good of those who love Him” (Rom 8:28) – even this.

DEACON MATTHEW NEWSOME is the Catholic campus minister at Western Carolina University and the regional faith formation coordinator for the Smoky Mountain Vicariate. He has been publishing frequent reflections for his students on the WCU Catholic Campus Ministry’s YouTube channel while students are away from campus, which can be accessed at www.WCUCatholic.org.

Let us hunger for Christ’s Presence Emily, one of our parish’s cantors, and her husband Matt had a baby on Easter Sunday. She sent an email with pictures. Perhaps because of that, I was struck by this Sunday’s entrance antiphon: “Like newborn infants, you must long for the pure, spiritual milk, that in Christ you may grow to salvation, alleluia.”

As every new mother knows, newborns have tiny stomachs, stomachs that need to be refilled every few hours. No wonder new moms and dads get so little sleep.

How much do I – do we – still long to grow in Christ with that much insistence? This particular Eastertime, when so much is closed down, how can I use the extra time I have to grow in Christ? Can I ask the Holy Spirit that I might desire Christ Jesus ever more and more?

As our first reading tells us, the early Church longed for Jesus’ return and adopted a lifestyle that put little stock in worldly things, but lived in the unity that Paul would later speak of as the Body of Christ. They consciously devoted themselves to prayer and the communal life, to the teaching of the apostles and to the breaking of the bread. The breaking of the bread is the earliest name for the Eucharist. They shared everything and cared for those in need. They longed for Christ and grew in the love of God and neighbor.

This hope and desire for Christ is found in the community that Peter wrote his First Letter. As he says, “Although you have not seen Him you love Him; even though you do not see Him now yet believe in Him, you rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy, as you attain the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.”

Unlike Thomas, we don’t see Jesus Christ in the flesh and touch him physically, but that doesn’t mean that we don’t touch Him in our hearts and with our lives.

Those of you who are extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion may have the experience that I sometimes have of giving Communion to someone and realizing later that the person resembles Christ. Even more, many who have worked with the poor and the sick, and gotten to know them, realize the truth of Jesus’ words: “Whatever you do to the least of my brothers and sisters, you do to Me.” But often we can be like Thomas. God is not working as we want God to work. If you are really God, then show me – and this is how you are to do it. Guess what, though: who are we to tell God how to do it? Shouldn’t we know better by now?

Each of us has our own Thomas moments. We can be like the fussy baby. What does he or she want now?

Fortunately, God doesn’t get exhausted. Sometimes God even gives in to our fuss. For Thomas, Jesus replied, “Put your finger here and see My hands, and bring your hand and put it into My side, and do not be unbelieving, but believe.” “Thomas answered and said to Him, ‘My Lord and my God!’” Jesus said to him (and he says it to us, too), “Have you come to believe because you have seen Me? Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.”

Lord, help us to believe every more fully. Like the infant, may we long for the milk of Your grace, the grace of Your Presence. Come, Lord, feed us. We hunger for Your Presence. Help us to grow up in You. JESUIT FATHER JOHN MICHALOWSKI is parochial vicar of St. Peter Church in Charlotte. This commentary is adapted from his homily for the Second Sunday of Easter on April 19.

April 24, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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Bishop Robert Barron

Tragedy, contingency and a deeper sense of God

I

have lived in Santa Barbara, California, for the past four years. In that brief time, my neighbors and I have experienced a number of real tragedies. Just over two years ago, the terrible Thomas Fire broke out in my pastoral region, in the vicinity of Thomas Aquinas College (hence the name). For a frightening month it made its devastating way from Santa Paula through Ventura, Carpenteria, Montecito, and eventually commenced to devour the foliage on the hills just north of my home.

‘Tragedy sparks an awareness of contingency, and an awareness of contingency gives rise to a deeper sense of God.’ As I was standing one Saturday morning on my front lawn, staring uneasily at the flames, a retired fire captain stopped his car and yelled out the window, “Bishop, what are you still doing here?

Embers are flying everywhere; this whole neighborhood could go up.”

We were all relieved when, just days later, rains finally came and doused the flames. But that welcome rain became, in short compass, a deluge, prompting a mudslide in the fire-ravaged hills above Montecito. Twenty-five people were swept to their deaths. In November of that same year, 2018, a disturbed man walked into a crowded restaurant and bar called the Borderline, located in Thousand Oaks, in the far eastern end of my pastoral region.

He opened fire at random and killed 13 people, including a brave police officer who tried to stop him. On Labor Day this past September, 35 people, sleeping below-decks in a diving boat moored just off the coast of Santa Barbara, were burned to death as fire roared through their cramped quarters.

I have thought of all of these tragedies as we Santa Barbarans, along with the entire country, are dealing now with the coronavirus crisis. I think it is fair to say that, at the turn of the year, no one saw this coming. No one would have predicted that tens of thousands would be infected by a dangerous pathogen, that thousands would die, that we would be shut in our homes, that the economy would go into meltdown. What seemed just a short time ago a fairly stable state of affairs medically, politically and economically has been turned upside down. Now, I don’t rehearse all of this negativity to depress you! I do so to make a theological point.

All of the tragedies that I’ve recounted are but dramatic examples of a general truth about the nature of things, a truth that we all know in our bones but that we

choose, typically, to cover up or overlook.

I’m talking about the radical contingency of the world, to give it its properly philosophical designation. This means, to state it simply, that everything in our experience is unstable; it comes into being and its passes out of being. Think of every plant, every animal, every insect, every cloud, indeed of every mountain, planet or solar system, if we allow for a sufficient passage of time: they all come to be and will eventually fade away. And though we habitually divert ourselves from accepting it, this contingency principle applies to each of us. Whenever we get really sick, or a good friend dies, or a weird virus threatens the general population, this truth manages to break through our defenses. Teilhard de Chardin, a theologian-scientist from the last century, said that he acquired a keen sense of his own mortality when, as a boy of 3, he saw a lock of his newly-cut hair fall into the fire and burn up in a split second.

Why shouldn’t this perception simply lead to existential despair, a Sartrean sense of the meaningless of life? St. Thomas Aquinas has the answer. The great medieval scholastic said the contingency of a thing tells us that it doesn’t contain within itself the reason for its own existence. This is why we naturally and spontaneously look for the cause of a contingent state of affairs: Why did that cloud come to be? What is keeping that insect alive? Why am I writing this article?

But if that cause is itself contingent, then we have to look for its cause. And if that cause is contingent, our search must go on. What we cannot do is endlessly appeal to contingent causes of contingent states of affairs. And thus we must come, finally, to some cause that is not itself caused and which in turn causes contingent things to be. And this, Aquinas says, is what people mean when they use the word “God.” Critics of religion sometimes say that priests and ministers present themselves at moments of sickness and tragedy – in hospitals, nursing homes, and funeral parlors – because they are providing a pathetic crutch to those who can’t deal with the sadness of life. But this is hopelessly superficial. Religious leaders do indeed go to those places, precisely because it is there that people experience their contingency with particular acuteness and such experiences open the mind and the heart to God. When we are shaken, we look by a very healthy instinct for that which is ultimately stable.

At the end of World War II and in the wake of Sept. 11, 2001, churches were filled across our country, and I would be willing to bet, when the coronavirus passes, they will be filled again. I would urge you to read this phenomenon not merely psychologically but metaphysically: tragedy sparks an awareness of contingency, and an awareness of contingency gives rise to a deeper sense of God. 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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DUC IN ALTUM JUNE 29 — JULY 3, 2020 AT BELMONT ABBEY COLLEGE RETREAT FOR YOUNG WOMEN, 15 -19 YEARS OF AGE WWW.CHARLOTTEVOCATIONS.ORG