Aug. 14, 2020

August 14, 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

New principals start the year at two diocesan schools 7

Schools see renovations, improvements over the summer 7 INDEX

Contact us.....................................4 Español.......................................10-12 Online Masses...............................4 Our Faith........................................2 Our Parishes............................ 3-5 Schools...................................... 6-9 Scripture readings.......................2 TV & Movies................................. 13 U.S. news..................................... 14 Viewpoints..............................18-19 World news............................. 16-17

Back to school, with changes All 19 Catholic schools to resume in-person instruction, using new safety protocols 6 Las 19 escuelas católicas reanudarán clases presenciales utilizando nuevos protocolos de seguridad 11

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Iglesia Santísima Trinidad logra emitir Misas dominicales online 12

‘It is Christ or nothing’

Nine men enter St. Joseph College Seminary 3

‘Es Cristo o nada’

Nueve hombres más ingresaron al Seminario Universitario San José

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Our faith 2

catholicnewsherald.com | August 14, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Pope Francis

Pandemic has revealed how often human dignity is ignored

T

he coronavirus pandemic has shed light on other, “more widespread social diseases,” particularly attacks on the God-given human dignity of every person, Pope Francis said.

“The pandemic has highlighted how vulnerable and interconnected we all are. If we do not take care of each other, starting with the least -- those who are most affected, including creation -- we cannot heal the world,” the pope said Aug. 12 at his weekly general audience.

Pope Francis had announced a week earlier that he would begin a series of audience talks about Catholic social teaching, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The audience, which was livestreamed from the library of the Apostolic Palace, began with a reading from the Book of Genesis: “God created mankind in His image; in the image of God He created them; male and female He created them.”

The dignity of the human person, the pope said, is the foundation of Catholic social teaching and all its attempts to apply Gospel values to the way people live and act in the world.

Pope Francis said that while there are many “heroes” who are caring for others during the pandemic, even at the risk of their own lives, the pandemic also has revealed economic and social systems influenced by a “distorted vision of the person, a gaze that ignores the person’s dignity and relational character” by seeing others as “objects, objects to be used and discarded.”

Such an attitude is contrary to the faith, he said. The Bible clearly teaches that God created every person with “a unique dignity, inviting us into communion with Him, with our sisters and brothers (and) with respect for all creation.”

“As disciples of Jesus,” he said, “we do not want to be indifferent or individualistic – two ugly attitudes, which are against harmony. Indifferent, I look the other way.

And individualistic, ‘only for me,’ looking only at one’s own interests.”

Instead, God created human beings “to be in communion,” the pope said.

Taking seriously the dignity of each person and recognizing the God-given gift of creation should give rise to both a sense of responsibility and a sense of awe, Pope Francis said. But it also has “serious social, economic and political implications” for those who recognize that responsibility. He urged people to continue working to contain the virus and find a cure, but said that in the meantime, “faith exhorts us to commit ourselves seriously and actively to combating indifference in the face of violations of human dignity.”

On Aug, 15 Catholics and many other Christians celebrate the feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

This significant feast day recalls the spiritual and physical departure of the mother of Jesus Christ from the earth, when both her soul and her body were taken into the presence of God. Venerable Pope Pius XII confirmed this belief about the Virgin Mary as the perennial teaching of the Church when he defined it formally as a dogma of Catholic faith in 1950, invoking papal infallibility to proclaim, “that the Immaculate Mother of God, the ever-Virgin Mary, having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory.”

His apostolic constitution “Munificentissimus Deus” (“Most Bountiful God”), which affirmed the dogma, contained the pontiff’s accounts of many longstanding traditions by which the Church has celebrated the Assumption throughout its history.

The constitution also cited testimonies from the early Church fathers on the subject, and described the history of theological reflection on many Biblical passages which are seen as indicating that Mary was assumed into heaven following her death.

Although the bodily assumption of Mary is not explicitly recorded in Scripture, Catholic tradition identifies her with the “woman clothed with the sun” who is described in the 12th chapter of the Book of Revelation.

The passage calls that woman’s appearance “a great sign” which “appeared in heaven,” indicating that she is the mother of the Jewish Messiah and has “the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars.” Accordingly, Catholic iconography of the Western tradition often depicts the Virgin Mary’s assumption into heaven in this manner.

Eastern Christians have also traditionally held Mary’s assumption into heaven as an essential component of their faith. Pius XII cited several early Byzantine liturgical texts, as well as St. John of Damascus, the eighth-century Christian theologian, monk and Doctor of the Church, in his own authoritative definition of her Assumption.

“It was fitting,” St. John of Damascus wrote in a sermon on the Assumption, “that she, who had kept her virginity intact in childbirth, should keep her own body free from all corruption even after death,”

“Assumption of Mary” by Jan Frans Beschey (1737-1787) and “that she, who had carried the creator as a child at her breast, should dwell in the divine tabernacles.”

In Eastern Christian tradition, the same feast is celebrated on the same calendar date, although typically known as the Dormition (“falling asleep”) of Mary. Eastern Catholic celebration of the Dormition is preceded by a two-week period of fasting similar to Lent. Pius XII, in “Munificentissimus Deus,” mentioned

this same fasting period as belonging to the traditional patrimony of Western Christians as well.

— Catholic News Agency

Note The Feast of the Assumption is usually a holy day of obligation, but the obligation for Roman Catholics to attend Mass this year has been lifted due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Daily Scripture readings AUG. 16-22

Sunday: Isaiah 56:1, 6-7, Romans 11:1315, 29-32, Matthew 15:21-28; Monday: Ezekiel 24:15-23, Deuteronomy 32:18-21, Matthew 19:16-22; Tuesday: Ezekiel 28:1-10, Deuteronomy 32:26-28, 30, 35-36, Matthew 19:23-30; Wednesday (St. John Eudes): Ezekiel 34:1-11, Matthew 20:1-16; Thursday (St. Bernard): Ezekiel 36:23-28, Matthew 22:1-14; Friday (St. Pius X): Ezekiel 37:114, Matthew 22:34-40; Saturday (The Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary): Ezekiel 43:1-7, Matthew 23:1-12

AUG. 23-29

Sunday: Isaiah 22:19-23, Romans 11:33-36, Matthew 16:13-20; Monday (St. Bartholomew): Revelation 21:9-14, John 1:45-51; Tuesday (St. Louis, St. Joseph Calasanz): 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3, 14-17, Matthew 23:23-26; Wednesday: 2 Thessalonians 3:6-10, 16-18, Matthew 23:2732; Thursday (St. Monica): 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Matthew 24:42-51; Friday (St. Augustine): 1 Corinthians 1:17-25, Matthew 25:1-13; Saturday (The Passion of St. John the Baptist): 1 Corinthians 1:26-31, Mark 6:17-29

AUG. 30-SEPT. 5

Sunday: Jeremiah 20:7-9, Romans 12:1-2, Matthew 16:21-27; Monday: 1 Corinthians 2:15, Luke 4:16-30; Tuesday: 1 Corinthians 2:1016, Luke 4:31-37; Wednesday: 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Luke 4:38-44; Thursday (St. Gregory the Great): 1 Corinthians 3:18-23, Luke 5:1-11; Friday: 1 Corinthians 4:1-5, Luke 5:3339; Saturday (St. Teresa of Calcutta): 1 Corinthians 4:6-15, Luke 6:1-5

Our parishes

August 14, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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Sparta earthquake felt during Scripture reading about an earthquake PATRICIA L. GUILFOYLE EDITOR

CHARLOTTE — Scripture really came alive last Sunday for Catholics in Charlotte.

A 5.1-magnitude earthquake originating near Sparta was felt in Charlotte a little after 8 a.m. Aug. 9 – just as parishioners at St. Gabriel Church were listening to the first reading of Sunday’s Mass, from 1 Kings: SUEANN HOWELL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

St. Joseph College Seminary welcomed nine new men this fall, starting with an Aug. 2 Mass at St. Ann Church in Charlotte. They moved in to the new building in Mount Holly later that day with the help of their families and fellow seminarians.

‘It is Christ or nothing’ Nine more men enter St. Joseph College Seminary SUEANN HOWELL SENIOR REPORTER

MOUNT HOLLY — Nine young men have joined St. Joseph College Seminary, bringing the total enrollment to 27 as the college seminary kicks off the academic year in its new permanent home in Mount Holly.

The members of “Echo class” were welcomed by the college seminary’s rector, Father Matthew Kauth, during Mass Aug. 2 at St. Ann Church in Charlotte.

After Mass, the new men moved in to their new quarters.

St. Joseph College Seminary, now in its fifth year, is for undergraduate men discerning a possible religious vocation, before taking the step of enrolling in a major seminary for specific formation to the priesthood for the Diocese of Charlotte. Students work toward a bachelor’s degree in philosophy at nearby Belmont Abbey College while experiencing a Benedictine-style communal life on their path of discernment.

In his homily, Father Kauth spoke directly to the new class.

“You have to be just about mad (to follow Christ),” he said, smiling at them. “I’m not sure how far you’ll go.

Maybe you will go all the way. But all the way isn’t just the priesthood. The priesthood is a means that Christ uses as an instrument to serve His faithful. All the way, of course, is sanctity.”

Drawing from Matthew 14:13-21, Sunday’s Gospel reading which recounts Christ’s multiplication of the loaves and fishes to feed thousands, Father Kauth told them: “The hunger that we have for Jesus Christ is greater than any other hunger.”

The college seminary’s rigorous schedule, the coursework, the intense prayer and discernment efforts – “all of that is just to put all those lesser hungers aside, so (as to) feed on God alone,” he continued.

“If you are going to follow Jesus Christ, He has made it such that you cannot follow anyone or anything else.

No other metric, no other reasoning, no other campaign – just Him. It is Christ or nothing.

“You have no idea what He will feed you with. No idea how He will slake your thirst. No idea how He will fill your heart’s greatest longings. But you know enough to take a step and to hope beyond hope that He will respond to you and turn around and say, ‘I’m not going to send you away. I will give you something to eat.’”

After Mass, the nine men and their families drove to the new seminary building to move in to their rooms.

For the first time since the college seminary opened with its first class in 2016, all students will be living and studying together under the same roof. Enrollment in previous years was so high that the diocese had to purchase multiple houses to accommodate everyone while the permanent building was under construction.

The nearly 30,000-square-foot Gothic-styled building was finished this summer.

During their move-in, the new men and their families were assisted by their older fellow seminarians. The new men toured the building while their parents attended an orientation, and a welcome dinner for them and their families rounded out the day’s events.

For more information At www.catholicnewsherald.com: Watch the video of Father Matthew Kauth’s complete homily from the Mass welcoming the new class of St. Joseph College Seminary At www.stjosephcollegeseminary.org: Learn more about St. Joseph College Seminary, including how to contribute to the building campaign. Fundraising continues, with $14.5 million of the $20 million goal raised so far.

St. Joseph College Seminary fundraising continues MOUNT HOLLY — For the first time in its history, St. Joseph College Seminary welcomed its incoming class of nine men onto the newly completed seminary campus at 22 Arctus Ave. after the seminary’s opening Mass Aug. 2.

The Gothic-inspired two-story building has a chapel, classroom, library, conference rooms, a kitchen and refectory (cafeteria), faculty offices, and a guest room for speakers and visiting priests. It also includes 40 dorm rooms or “cells” for the college seminarians.

Established 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 27 this year.

Campaign fundraising is under way, with $14.5 million of the $20 million raised so far.

For information about the St. Joseph College Seminary capital campaign, go to www.stjosephcollegeseminary.org or contact Jim Kelley, diocesan director of development, at 704608-0359 or email jkkelley@charlottediocese.org.

— SueAnn Howell, senior reporter

At the mountain of God, Horeb, Elijah came to a cave where he took shelter.

Then the LORD said to him, “Go outside and stand on the mountain before the LORD; the LORD will be passing by.”

A strong and heavy wind was rending the mountains and crushing rocks before the LORD— but the LORD was not in the wind.

After the wind there was an earthquake— but the LORD was not in the earthquake.

After the earthquake there was fire— but the LORD was not in the fire.

After the fire there was a tiny whispering sound.

When he heard this, Elijah hid his face in his cloak and went and stood at the entrance of the cave.

St. Gabriel’s pastor, Father Richard Sutter, contacted the Catholic News Herald to say that they felt the earthquake during the 8 a.m. outdoor Mass, just as the lector was reading the words “After the wind there was an earthquake – but the LORD was not in the earthquake.”

It was not a coincidence, Father Sutter said. It was a reminder for these times: “Let’s keep our eyes on Jesus Christ and not the waves (or even earthquakes) we cannot control.”

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the Aug. 9 quake occurred about 2.5 miles southeast of Sparta, and had been “preceded by at least four small foreshocks” that had started about 25 hours earlier.

The pastor of the Catholic mission in Sparta, Father Cory Catron, said everything was well and no damage was apparent.

“Made for good homily material, though,” he said.

Father Catron said he had felt some of the foreshocks in the area earlier, too.

In his Sunday homily, he joked about being worried that the next thing to happen would be fire – a pastor’s nightmare – but he also used the opportunity to remind people that God is constantly present in our lives, and we must not be distracted by the noise and problems of the world around us, but listen for His voice in the stillness.

“God is found in the silence,” Father Catron said, and he encouraged people to pray.

The quake also came at a poignant moment for parishioners at St. Mark Church in Huntersville: the Sign of Peace.

Father Melchesideck Yumo was saying the 7:30 a.m. Mass, where he had just given a homily on finding God’s peace amid the storms of life: “There are a lot of storms on this journey, like the present pandemic and all of the strange happenings around the world. What do we do amidst these storms? We can follow the example of Peter, and pray, ‘Lord, save me.’ We pray to God because He is in control of everything in heaven and on earth.

Jesus walked on the water today in the Gospel to show that everything is under His feet. Our faith should help to dispel every fear. For Jesus says, ‘Take courage. It is I. Do not be afraid.’”

Video from the church’s livestream camera shows very slight shaking and a couple of parishioners looking around in a reaction of curiosity, just as Father Yumo says, “The peace of the Lord be with you always.”

The Sparta quake was felt as far south as Atlanta and as far north as Virginia, according to the USGS. The USGS notes that “large earthquakes are relatively uncommon in the region,” although “moderately damaging earthquakes strike the inland Carolinas every few decades, and smaller earthquakes are felt about once each year or two.”

The last similar magnitude earthquake in the area occurred in 1916, a 5.2-magnitude quake in the Great Smoky Mountains, according to the USGS.

Online Masses 4

catholicnewsherald.com | August 14, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

August 14, 2020 Volume 29 • NUMBER 23

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

704-370-3333

The following parishes are providing live or recorded Masses each week. An updated schedule is online at www.catholicnewsherald.com, or contact your parish for details.

LIVESTREAMED MASSES 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: BELMONT ABBEY MONASTERY: 11 a.m. daily

PUBLISHER: The Most Reverend Peter J. Jugis, Bishop of Charlotte

DIVINE REDEEMER CHURCH, BOONVILLE: 9 and 11 a.m. Sunday GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCH, KING: 11 a.m. English; 1:30 p.m.

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

STAFF

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

Sunday

GOOD SHEPHERD MISSION, KING HOLY CROSS CHURCH, KERNERSVILLE HOLY SPIRIT CHURCH, DENVER IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CHURCH, FOREST CITY IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY CHURCH, HIGH POINT OUR LADY OF CONSOLATION, CHARLOTTE (ST. HELEN MISSION, SPENCER MOUNTAIN) OUR LADY OF GRACE CHURCH, GREENSBORO OUR LADY OF MERCY CHURCH, WINSTON-SALEM SACRED HEART CHURCH, SALISBURY ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CHURCH, LENOIR

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

ST. GABRIEL CHURCH, CHARLOTTE

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

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

Sunday

ST. JOSEPH CHURCH, ASHEBORO

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

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

Sunday

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ST. JOAN OF ARC CHURCH, CANDLER ST. LAWRENCE BASILICA, ASHEVILLE ST. LEO THE GREAT CHURCH, WINSTON-SALEM

SACRED HEART CHURCH, SALISBURY: 9 a.m. daily (except Tuesday), Tuesday Mass, 6 p.m.

ST. MARGARET MARY CHURCH, SWANNANOA

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

ST. MARY MOTHER OF GOD CHURCH, SYLVA

ST. BARNABAS CHURCH, ARDEN: 10 a.m. Sunday

ST. PATRICK CATHEDRAL, CHARLOTTE

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. EUGENE CHURCH, ASHEVILLE: 5:30 p.m. Saturday Vigil; 5:30 p.m. Sunday Mass ST. JAMES CHURCH, CONCORD: English and Spanish ST. JOHN NEUMANN CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 8 and 10 a.m. Sunday in English and 12 p.m. Sunday in Spanish ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST CHURCH, WAYNESVILLE, AND IMMACULATE CONCEPTION MISSION, CANTON

ST. MARK CHURCH, HUNTERSVILLE ST. MICHAEL CHURCH, GASTONIA ST. PAUL THE APOSTLE CHURCH, GREENSBORO ST. STEPHEN MISSION, ELKIN ST. STEPHEN MARONITE CHURCH, CHARLOTTE ST. THERESE CHURCH, MOORESVILLE ST. VINCENT DE PAUL CHURCH, CHARLOTTE 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

ST. LUKE CHURCH, MINT HILL: 9 and 11 a.m. Sunday in English; 1 p.m. Sunday bilingual; 4:30 p.m. Sunday

OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 8 a.m. domingo; 7:30 p.m. martes; 12 p.m. miércoles, jueves y viernes.

ST. MARK CHURCH, HUNTERSVILLE: 7 and 9 a.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday; 7 a.m. Wednesday; 9 a.m. Saturday; 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sunday in English, and 1 p.m. in Spanish ST. MARY’S CHURCH, GREENSBORO: 8 a.m. Sunday

OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CHURCH, CHARLOTTE OUR LADY OF LOURDES CHURCH, MONROE

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

SACRED HEART CHURCH, SALISBURY: 11 a.m. Domingo ST. ALOYSIUS CHURCH, HICKORY: 1 p.m. Domingo ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CHURCH, WINSTON-SALEM: 1:30 p.m.

Domingo ST. EUGENE CHURCH, ASHEVILLE: 7:30 a.m. Sabado ST. JAMES THE GREATER CHURCH, CONCORD ST. JOHN NEUMANN CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 12 p.m. Domingo ST. JOSEPH CHURCH, ASHEBORO ST. LUKE CHURCH, MINT HILL: 1 p.m. Domingo ST. MARK CHURCH, HUNTERSVILLE: 1 p.m. Domingo ST. MARY’S CHURCH, GREENSBORO: 11 a.m. Domingo ST. MARY, MOTHER OF GOD CHURCH, SYLVA: 7 p.m. Sabado VIETNAMESE ST. JOSEPH VIETNAMESE CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. Sunday ST. MARY’S CHURCH, GREENSBORO: 9:30 Sunday LATIN ST. ANN CHURCH, CHARLOTTE: 12:30 p.m. Sunday OUR LADY OF GRACE CHURCH, GREENSBORO: 1 p.m. Sunday

Bishop Peter J. Jugis will participate in the following upcoming events: AUG. 15 – 10 A.M. Institution of Acolytes for Permanent Deacon Candidates and Affirmation of Promises for Permanent Deacons St. Patrick Cathedral, Charlotte AUG. 18 – 6 P.M. Sacrament of Confirmation for St. Margaret Church and St. John the Evangelist St. John the Evangelist Church, Waynesville AUG. 20 – 6 P.M. Sacrament of Confirmation Christ the King Church, High Point AUG. 25 – 6 P.M. Sacrament of Confirmation St. Benedict the Moor Church, WinstonSalem AUG. 27 – 6 P.M. Sacrament of Confirmation Good Shepherd Mission, King AUG. 29 – 6 P.M. Sacrament of Confirmation St. Benedict Church, Greensboro SEPT. 1 – 6 P.M. Sacrament of Confirmation St. Matthew Church, Charlotte

August 14, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com

Healing prayer service offers respite to SJN parishioners CHARLOTTE — The weather on July 23 was like every other day that week. It started out sunny, then later the clouds rolled in, the thunder rumbled and rain threatened. In the Matthews/Mint Hill area, evening storms beat down on most of the community – except on the lawn of St. John Neumann Church, where a bilingual prayer service was taking place outdoors. Approximately 150 parishioners arrived with their lawn chairs, observed social distancing practices and joined together in prayer at the two-hour liturgy, which included Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, Scripture readings, spoken and quiet prayer time and an intention cross. The evening concluded with a healing service. Father John Starczewski, pastor, and Father Peter Phan administered the sacrament of the anointing of the sick to those who requested it. “We heard the thunder; we felt the wind. The breeze kept us cool.

There was no doubt that the Holy Spirit was right in our midst,” said one of the participants.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY GLENDA LLIGUICOTA

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief

Retreat planned at Living Waters MAGGIE VALLEY — Attend a weekend retreat at Living Waters Catholic Retreat Center called “UN-Packing the Holy Mass” Sept. 25-26.

Its speaker, Michael Coyle is a life-long Catholic and a native North Carolinian. Coyle is a parishioner of St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Charlotte and holds a theology degree from Franciscan University of Steubenville.

He is a diocesan-certified catechist and has been enthusiastically and effectively teaching religious education for nearly 40 years, including youth catechesis, campus ministry, RCIA, Scripture studies, and adult faith enrichment.

The retreat will begin Friday with dinner and close with lunch on Sunday.

Learn more and register at www. catholicretreat.org.

— Catholic News Herald

Food drives held Community Ministries from St. Therese Parish in Monroe recently held a successful three-day Food Drive to benefit FeedNC, collecting from parishioners a total of 1,371 pounds of food for people in need in the community.

The Knights of Columbus from St. Elizabeth Parish in Boone also hosted a food drive the weekend of June 28 to aid the Hospitality House, a local homeless shelter.

— Lisa Cash, Patricia Van Buren and Sophia McNiff; Amber Mellon, correspondent

CNH wins 13 national media awards CHARLOTTE — The Catholic News Herald has earned 13 awards for its work in 2019 – including best overall newspaper for the second year in a row – from the Catholic Press Association of the U.S. and Canada. The awards were presented during the Catholic Press Association’s annual conference in July.

The best overall newspaper award, recognizing general excellence, was among all non-weekly diocesan newspapers that have a circulation of 25,000 or higher.

Other awards were:

n First place, Best Editorial Page or Section – Diocesan Newspaper: Viewpoints n First place, Best Multimedia Package – News: “’Youthful vitality of our local Church’: Three men ordained priests for the Diocese of Charlotte” n First place, Best Reporting on Vocations to the Priesthood, Religious Life or Diaconate: “In His Presence” vocations section n First place, Best Sports Reporting: “Jaime y Luis Moreno: Son las voces de Las Panteras en español” by César Hurtado, reportero Hispano n Second place, Best Multimedia Package – Pro-life Activities: “N.C. pilgrims attend Mass, then join March for Life in D.C.” by César Hurtado, with photos by correspondent Phil Roche n Second place, Best Reporting on Social Justice Issues – Solidarity: “Iglesia participa en defensa de ‘tepesianos’” by César Hurtado, reportero Hispano n Third place, Best News Writing on a Local or Regional Event: “Tight quarters, tighter bonds of brotherhood” by SueAnn Howell, senior reporter n Honorable Mention, Best Special Supplement or Special Issue with an Advertising Emphasis: “A Holy Death” n Honorable Mention, Best Story and Photo Package: “Summer well spent” n Honorable Mention, Best Web and Print Package: “Eucharistic Congress” n Honorable Mention, Best Annual Report on Diocesan Finances: “Stay With Us, Lord” n Honorable Mention, Best Reporting on the Celebration of a Sacrament: “Fully accepted: 93-year-old enters Church at Easter Vigil” — Catholic News Herald

OUR PARISHESI

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Greensboro deacon passes away, aged 97 GREENSBORO — Deacon Gordon Lawrence Forester passed away peacefully Aug. 1, 2020. At 97, he was the oldest deacon serving in the Diocese of Charlotte.

A Mass was celebrated at St. Paul the Apostle Church Aug. 10, 2020.

Deacon Forester was born July 4, 1923, in Evanston, Ill., the son of Edward George Sr. and Marie Forester Carroll Forester.

He attended the University of Notre Dame in 1941 and then as a member of the Naval ROTC program left to serve in the Pacific during World War II. After the war he married Ann Holinger and completed his degree at Notre Dame.

The Foresters moved to New York, where he worked for Chase Bank and attended night school for a master’s degree in corporate finance at NYU. He worked as a buyer for J.C. Penny Co. and then as a wholesale salesman for Imperial Reading Co., and he was an adjunct professor of marketing at a local college.

On June 9, 1979, he was ordained a permanent deacon for the Diocese of Rockville Centre, N.Y., by Bishop John R. McGann. After his ordination he was assigned to St. Brigid Parish in Westbury, N.Y., where for nine years his ministry focused on serving the sick and terminally ill.

He continued this ministry after moving to North Carolina in 1988. After being assigned to St. Paul the Apostle Parish in Greensboro, he was involved in the formation of a grief support group, became an adjunct chaplain at Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital, and brought Holy Communion to fellow residents at Well-Spring Retirement Community in Greensboro.

Deacon Gordon faithfully served the Church for 41 years, with 32 of those years spent serving the Greensboro parish.

He loved life, traveling the world, and traveling to visit his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed family game nights, laughed often and did his best to support the spiritual growth of people around him.

He and his wife Ann were blessed with 52 years of marriage and six children before her passing in 1998.

In 2003 he married Jean Berry, and they enjoyed 10 years of marriage and companionship before her passing in 2013.

He was also preceded in death by a brother, Edward Forester Jr. Survivors include brother Keith Forester and his children: Gordon (Larry) Forester Jr., Carol McCoy, Claire Forester, Thomas Forester and his wife Cecilia, Holly Forester-Miller and her husband Gary, Jeanne Conklin and her husband Bob. Also surviving are seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Franciscan Center, 233 N. Greene St., Greensboro, NC 27401.

Triad Cremation & Funeral Service of Greensboro was in charge of the arrangements.

— Catholic News Herald

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catholicnewsherald.com | August 14, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

SPECIAL COVERAGE: BACK TO SCHOOL

Catholic schools to resume in-person instruction SUEANN HOWELL AND PATRICIA L. GUILFOYLE CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

CHARLOTTE — All 19 Catholic schools in the Diocese of Charlotte are preparing to open for in-person instruction in the coming weeks.

Aug. 31 will be the first day of school for students at Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools; Sacred Heart School in Salisbury; St. Michael School in Gastonia; Our Lady of Grace and St. Pius X schools in Greensboro; Immaculate Heart of Mary School in High Point; Our Lady of Mercy and St. Leo schools in Winston-Salem; and Bishop McGuinness High School in Kernersville.

Sept. 8 will be the first day of school at Immaculata School in Hendersonville and Asheville Catholic School.

All schools will also accommodate remote learning options for students who opt to stay at home due to health concerns.

Teachers have already begun returning for training in new diocesan-wide safety, cleaning and sanitation protocols, as well as to set up their classrooms and prepare their lesson plans for both their in-person and remote students.

“Our efforts have been focused on offering the safest possible return to campus while also keeping our commitment to create as normal a learning experience for our students as possible,” said Dr. Greg Monroe, superintendent of Catholic Schools. “We look forward to seeing students very soon.”

All Catholic schools in the diocese will follow guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, American Academy of Pediatrics and N.C. Department of Health and Human Services to ensure the safest possible learning environment – including health screenings, frequent cleaning and handwashing, face coverings, social distancing, protective barriers and other measures to keep students and staff healthy and safe.

A diocesan taskforce worked with public health officials to compile extensive guidelines that have been customized for each school’s specific needs.

Here are snapshots of what is being implemented at some of the diocese’s schools:

ASHEVILLE CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Principal Mike Miller said he is looking forward to welcoming back students Sept. 8 after what has been a six-month absence.

“We have been planning and working all summer to make sure that our return is as safe as possible for students and staff,” Miller said. “Additional workdays have been added in August to allow staff extra time needed to make sure that preparations for new protocols are complete, and additional training can be scheduled.”

Desks in every classroom will be spaced apart according to CDC guidelines, and each desk will have a Plexiglas shield for added safety. Hand sanitizer stations have been placed at every entrance and in every classroom.

“We also have set up a morning entrance process that allows students to get from their car to class without needing to touch any doors, lockers, etc.,” Miller added.

Technology is being installed in classrooms to enable teachers at every grade level to provide synchronous learning for students who have opted to learn from home.

“This will reduce the demand on teachers

St. Matthew School in Charlotte, like the other 18 Catholic schools in the Diocese of Charlotte, is preparing to welcome students back for in-person instruction in the coming weeks. Pictured is kindergarten teacher Jennifer Faries. Some of the safety measures being put in place at all schools include socially-distanced desks, face coverings, cleaning supplies and hand sanitizing stations, traffic control signage, and water bottle filling stations instead of water fountains.

SUEANN HOWELL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD; PHOTO PROVIDED BY HOLY TRINITY MIDDLE SCHOOL

who will be teaching students in person, while also having students learning remotely,” Miller explained. “We have also been busy hiring additional staff to help us meet the new demands that we face this fall.

Additional custodial staff, IT support and teaching support staff have all been added for the ultimate benefit of our students.”

To help make for a smooth return to class on Sept. 8, the school is producing videos to send to families that convey information the school typically communicates in person at orientation meetings.

“This will help since we are not gathering in large groups as we would during typical orientation meetings,” he said.

CHARLOTTE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

Charlotte Catholic High School in Charlotte is excited to begin using Canvas, an online education platform, when it opens for classes Aug. 31.

“While the teachers did an outstanding job delivering curriculum (last academic year), we used multiple platforms, which was a challenge for many students,” said Principal Kurt Telford.

Charlotte Catholic will continue with the traditional seven-period school day, but the schedule will be modified so that only five classes meet per day. All lessons will be streamed live via Canvas.

The modified class schedule and livestreaming capabilities mean the school can be very nimble if they have to shift to a hybrid in-person/remote learning model or a fully remote learning model, Telford explained.

Like the diocese’s other schools, all Charlotte Catholic students will have temperature and symptom screenings upon arrival each day.

The school has also eliminated homeroom and breaks to reduce students’ movements inside the school. Hallways and stairwell traffic have markers to control the flow of traffic, and students will have more time to get to each class.

In the classrooms, every teacher’s desk will have Plexiglas shields. Plexiglas has also been installed in science labs and other classrooms where students sit at shared tables.

To help students remain socially distanced, a limited number of students will be able eat in the cafeteria, and some students will eat in their classrooms after getting their lunch.

Staff have had to work hard over the

summer to put all these plans into place, but it’s worth it, Telford noted. He and his teachers have missed seeing students.

“I look forward to seeing students enter the doors on Aug. 31,” he said. “Students bring an energy to school that cannot be quantified.”

HOLY TRINITY MIDDLE SCHOOL

Offering instruction for students in grades six to eight, Holy Trinity Middle School in Charlotte is relying on its mascot – a bulldog – to make social distancing a bit easier and fun for students when school opens Aug. 31. Blue pawprints have been painted all over campus.

These “Bulldog Spacing Paws” are visual reminders to socially distance, said Principal Kevin Parks. “They also indicate paths on campus from building to building.

Each building on campus will also have one-way hallways and up/down stairways.”

Common areas – hallways, chapel, cafeteria, gymnasium and multipurpose rooms – will not be used by large, mixed classroom groups this year. And like the other schools in the diocese, all-school assemblies are also off the table for now.

In lieu of standard water fountains, touchless water bottle refilling stations have been installed for students to fill personal water bottles or containers.

“I am extremely excited to reopen Holy Trinity to our teachers and students. We look forward to an excellent year,” Parks said.

IMMACULATA SCHOOL

When classes begin at Immaculata School in Hendersonville Sept. 8, students, staff and families will notice a difference from the minute they drive up – thanks to a major renovation project completed at the school over the summer. The changes are visible starting with the front entrance and throughout the school. (Editor’s note: See related story on page 7.)

Part of the interior improvements to the K-8 school include safety features that incorporate state and federal guidelines.

“One of the blessings in disguise (during the pandemic) came in the way of renovations of the school, because we were able to use funds slated for the remodel to make sure the school is safer,” said Principal Margaret Beale.

Plexiglas panels are being installed on each student’s desk and every teacher’s desk. Automatic faucets in remodeled restrooms, touchless sanitizer stations

in every classroom and throughout the school and water bottle filling stations instead of water fountains have also been installed.

“We are so excited for our students and teachers to return to our Immaculata Catholic School campus,” Beale said. “The schools in our diocese really focus on educating the whole child, so returning to in-person instruction is necessary for us to continue that mission. When we gather together as a community, we are stronger and able to accomplish much more than when we are apart.”

Beale added that in this time of uncertainty, it is important to focus on the positives.

“Education is changing and we are on the frontlines of a new frontier. With having to master the tools to make distance learning possible, we are equipping our schools to become stronger and more connected globally in this digital age,” she said.

“There will definitely be growing pains along the way, but I am excited for the future of education and how we can make our mark as a Catholic school,” she said.

ST. MATTHEW SCHOOL

Staff at St. Matthew School in Charlotte are also working hard to prepare for students’ return Aug. 31. Similar to the other schools in the diocese, St. Matthew is putting lots of protective measures in place.

“We will have floor signage (in the hallways to help with social distancing) and Plexiglas set up in some areas around the school,” noted Principal Kevin O’Herron.

“The culture of St. Matthew is one of community and family, wrapped around our faith. It seems a natural fit for us to return to campus together – understanding that spiritual, academic, social and emotional growth occur best face-to-face,” O’Herron said.

“We are so fortunate to have a faculty at St. Matthew who have chosen this vocation of Catholic educator. They are so dedicated to ensuring that safety of our students comes first as we return home to our school building,” he said.

Have questions?

For more information, parents should contact their school’s administration or visit the “COVID-19 School Updates” page on the diocesan schools’ website at www. charlottediocese.org/schools-office.

August 14, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

7

SPECIAL COVERAGE: BACK TO SCHOOL

New principals start the year at two diocesan schools KIMBERLY BENDER ONLINE REPORTER

Two new principals are joining the leadership at Catholic schools in the Diocese of Charlotte this fall, one at Immaculate Heart of Mary School in High Point and one at St. Michael School in Gastonia.

A third principal position remains open as of press time at Bishop McGuinness High School, where Randy Quarles continues to serve as interim principal.

Ryan Schnaith-Ivan is the new principal of Schnaith-Ivan Immaculate Heart of Mary School.

He spent the past two years as an assistant principal at Ronald E. McNair Elementary in Browns Summit and prior to that he served in administration at Hampton Elementary in Greensboro.

He began his education career as an elementary art teacher in Michigan after graduating from Eastern Michigan University. He earned a master’s degree in counseling from Oakland Vollman University and moved to High Point, where he worked as the counselor at Southern Guilford Middle School for more than 10 years.

He left counseling to obtain a school administration license through the High Point University Leadership Academy. There he earned a master’s degree in school leadership.

He and his wife Maria have two children: a daughter who will be starting eighth grade and loves to play the flute, and a son who will be going into first grade and also loves to read and draw. They are parishioners of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church.

His hobbies include soccer and making things. He has coached high school and middle school soccer for a total of 26 seasons before moving into administration, and now he coaches his son’s team.

At St. Michael School, Michelle Vollman has been getting settled in as principal since starting in the post early last month.

Vollman came to Gastonia from Huntersville Elementary, where she taught for four years.

She has taught in the classroom since 2012.

She was a founding teacher at Cabarrus Charter Academy, where she served as lead teacher, overseeing curriculum planning and advocating for the teachers and students under her leadership.

She has participated in more than 100 hours of professional development including educational strategies which focus on teaching to the whole child. She also recently achieved Google expert certification – particularly relevant as schools have had to rely on virtual learning and communication tools during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vollman earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of North Carolina-Wilmington, and she is pursuing a master’s degree in educational administration at Queens University in Charlotte.

Immaculata School in Hendersonville (above) and St. Ann School in Charlotte (left) have each received a facelift recently. Students, staff and families will notice the changes when they enter their respective schools this fall.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY EMMETT SAPP AND TIM BUCKMAN

Schools see renovations, improvements over the summer SUEANN HOWELL SENIOR REPORTER

HENDERSONVILLE — Several schools across the Diocese of Charlotte have completed dramatic renovations over the summer months, and additional capital projects are well underway.

Immaculata School had an exterior facelift and major interior improvements related to critical technology and safety systems.

The $900,000 remodeling project is made possible thanks to a portion of the $2.3 million Immaculate Conception Parish capital campaign, including a $475,000 grant from the Diocese of Charlotte’s “Forward in Faith, Hope, and Love” campaign.

Updates to the 94-year-old school include a new double-door security vestibule, new reception area, security cameras and visitor check-in system using Lobby Guard to screen all visitors.

New key card access and intercom systems have been installed, all locks have been changed, and significant upgrades to the school’s technology infrastructure have been made.

Teachers are also receiving new laptops.

New, energy-efficient windows have been installed in the front of the school, restrooms have been remodeled, ceilings and lighting have been replaced in some classrooms, and a canopy has been added over a new front sidewalk.

The school’s parking lot has also been freshened up with new striping.

Additional safety preparations for opening this fall have also been made. Students’ and teachers’ desks have Plexiglas panels, and the remodeled bathrooms have automatic faucets. Touchless sanitizer stations are located in every classroom and throughout the school, and water bottle filling stations have replaced water fountains.

Other notable schools projects over summer include: n Asheville Catholic School — Two main restroom renovations are ongoing and expected to be complete when students begin class on Tuesday, Sept. 8.

The school has also started on its year-long $3.9 million project

to build a six-classroom addition. Funding for the addition is available from a $2 million school capital campaign for the school, $300,000 St. Eugene Church FFHL rebate and a $475,000 FFHL school grant. n Christ the King High School in Huntersville — Lighting and fencing have been installed around the athletic field, and a much-needed storage shed has been built. Interior improvements include a new confessional and sacristy located near the school’s chapel.

Funding for the $200,000 athletic field lighting project came from the school’s athletic association. Interior improvements were funded by savings from previous capital improvement projects. n St. Ann School in Charlotte — Extensive renovations to the school’s entrance and offices have been completed. The school’s main entrance has been relocated and updated with additional safety features, including a new double-door security vestibule and reception area secured with the Lobby Guard system.

The school also has a new intercom system, card reader access control system, security alarm and additional security cameras.

Administrative offices, a conference room, learning support room, teacher work room and nurse’s office have been added within the 3,500-square-feet renovation.

The $995,000 renovation project was funded by an $475,000 FFHL education grant, $490,000 in MACS security improvement funds and a $30,000 gift from the St. Ann School PTO. n MACS Fine Arts Center on the campus of Charlotte Catholic High School — Choate Construction began site utility work on this $20 million project in August. Designed

by Little Diversified Architectural Consulting of Charlotte, this 45,692-square-feet facility will provide arts education and performance space for all elementary, middle and high school students in the Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools system. The center also will be available for gatherings of the entire Catholic community and the broader Charlotte community.

Construction is expected to start this fall with anticipated completion for the start of the 2022-’23 school year.

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catholicnewsherald.com | August 14, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

SPECIAL COVERAGE: BACK TO SCHOOL

High schools’ capital campaigns continue Charlotte Catholic High School CHARLOTTE — Charlotte Catholic High School is in the final design stages for its long-awaited new fine arts center.

Pre-construction work has begun, and groundbreaking is scheduled for later this fall. The project is expected to be completed for the start of the 2022-’23 school year.

The $23 million project is being funded by a commitment of $15 million from MACS capital fees and donations raised through the “Expanding the Vision, Honoring the Tradition” capital campaign. The campaign continues to raise funds toward the project’s completion, and more than $6.1 has been committed to date.

“It’s hard to believe this is finally becoming a reality, but it is, thanks to the dedication of so many supporters of CCHS,” said CCHS Principal Kurt Telford.

“We are beyond excited that our fine arts center is going to become a reality very soon. There is no doubt that this building will become a vital part of our school and our community,” added Tish Macuga, a CCHS parent who, along with her husband Brian, is a general chair of the campaign.

For more information about the campaign, contact Telford at 704-5431127 or Advancement Director Sally McArdle at 704-716-2459. Learn more at www.playingyourpart.org.

— Sally S. McArdle

Christ the King High School HUNTERSVILLE — Christ the King High School’s capital campaign for a new Athletic & Activity Complex has reached important new milestones.

In a springtime meeting with the Diocese of Charlotte’s Building Commission, the school was given permission to enter the construction design phase of the project. The school engaged a team of experts to form a construction committee, created a request for proposal, and received multiple proposals from contractors.

The construction committee is expected to evaluate and select contractors this month, and the selected general contractor will then work with Boudreaux Design Group to create final drawings. If all goes smoothly, school leaders anticipate putting a shovel in the ground at the end of the first quarter of 2021.

The building campaign currently boasts $4.4 million in pledges. The campaign committee continues to cultivate pledges as the school community works towards the final “level 3” goal of $5.5 million.

To contribute to the campaign or get more information, contact Dr. Carl Semmler at 704-799-4400 or email CTKCampaign@ctkchs.net.

— Nicole L. Seeling

Endowment funds benefit schools, Catholic education CHARLOTTE — The Diocese of Charlotte Foundation manages 63 endowments totaling nearly $12 million that directly aid the diocese’s 19 schools and their students: n American Schlafhorst Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance for students at Charlotte Catholic High School. n Asheville Catholic School Foundation Endowment Fund: Financial support to enable the school to retain quality teachers, offer scholarship assistance, provide continuing education for teachers, and enhance the school’s curriculum. n Joseph and Margaret Baldi Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for children of St. Leo Parish families to attend St. Leo School in Winston-Salem. n Bishop McGuinness High School Endowment Fund: Financial support for the education of students at this school in Kernersville. n Joan W. Books Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for children of Immaculate Conception Parish to attend Immaculata School in Hendersonville. n Elizabeth Allen Brown Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at Asheville Catholic School. n Molly Cassidy Scholarship Fund: Tuition assistance for students in Catholic Schools in the Triad area. n Charlotte Catholic High School Alumni Association Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarships for graduating seniors to attend a college of their choice. n Charlotte Catholic High School Alumni Association Board Discretionary Endowment Fund: Financial assistance, at the board’s discretion, to Charlotte Catholic High School students. n James P. and Eunice S. Cherry Scholarship Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students to attend St. Michael School in Gastonia. n Cornelius Alexander Davis Fund: Tuition assistance for students at St. Leo School in Winston-Salem. n Digger Dawson Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance for students from Immaculate Conception Church attending Immaculata School in Hendersonville. n Derhofer Endowment Fund: For drama department productions, capital needs related to the drama department, and tuition assistance for students at Bishop McGuinness High School in Kernersville. n Deussen Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarships for Catholic high school education in the greater Charlotte area. n Faucette Endowment Fund: Financial assistance for the educational ministry of Catholic schools in the Diocese of Charlotte. n ‘Forward in Faith, Hope, and Love’ campaign endowment: Tuition assistance n Gayden and Janell Gauthier Fund: Tuition scholarship assistance for students at Immaculata School in Hendersonville. n O’Brien and William Edwards Gibbs Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at Asheville Catholic School. n Gismondi Family Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance for children of St. Mark Church parishioners to attend Christ the King High School in Huntersville. n Megan Healy Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance for students at St. Patrick School in Charlotte. n Edith and George Hilbert Endowment Fund for Asheville Catholic School: Financial support for the education of students at Asheville Catholic School. n Immaculata School Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance for students at Immaculata School in Hendersonville. n Immaculate Heart of Mary School Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at Immaculate Heart of Mary School in High Point. n Roger Kavanagh Tuition Assistance Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at St. Pius X School in Greensboro. n Leeolou Family Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance for families of Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools. n LeFeber Endowment: This fund provides tuition assistance to students at Immaculata Catholic School in Hendersonville. n LoBianco Family Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at St. Therese of Lisieux Church in Mooresville and St. Mark Church in Huntersville to attend Christ the King High School. n Manley Endowment Fund: This fund provides tuition assistance for students of families at St. Eugene Church to attend Catholic elementary school. n Sister Terry Martin Scholarship Endowment Fund: This fund provides tuition assistance for students matriculating in higher education from Clay and Cherokee Counties. n Catherine McAuley Endowment Fund: Scholarships to Catholic students attending Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools. n Francis J. McGrail Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance to students of Immaculate Heart of

Did you know? $3,546,063 has been distributed from 63 endowments managed by the Diocese of Charlotte Foundation that directly benefited students and schools Mary School in High Point. n Sandy McMonagle Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at Our Lady of Mercy School in Winston-Salem. n Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools Education Development Council: Assistance to the nine MACS schools in the Charlotte area. n Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools (MACS) Special Needs Endowment Fund: For Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools’ students with special needs. n Monsignor Lawrence C. Newman Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at Our Lady of Mercy School in Winston-Salem. n Vic Nussbaum Jr. Memorial Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at St. Pius X School in Greensboro. n Onulak Endowment: This fund provides tuition assistance to students at Asheville Catholic School. n Our Lady of Grace School Endowment Fund: For the general needs of the school. n Poutre Family Endowment Fund: For the general needs of Immaculata School in Hendersonville. n Quinn Family Fund: Tuition assistance for students at Immaculata School in Hendersonville. n Clark G. Ross Scholarship Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for Catholic students from Catholic parishes in Mecklenburg and Iredell counties to attend Catholic high schools in these counties, Davidson College or Queens University. n Sacred Heart School Endowment Fund: For the general needs of this school in Salisbury. n Sheridan-Mangan Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at Asheville Catholic School. n Sisters of Mercy Scholarship Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at St. Michael School in Gastonia. n Victoria Sleeman Endowment Fund: Scholarships for students of Immaculate Conception Church to attend Immaculata School in Hendersonville. n Frank Spinks Endowment Fund: For professional development activities for the staff at Immaculata School in Hendersonville. n Mary Spinks Endowment Fund: For scholarship assistance to minority students at Immaculata School in Hendersonville. n Michael Sullivan Endowment Fund: Scholarships for graduates of Charlotte Catholic High School. n St. Ann School Endowment Fund: For the general needs of this school in Charlotte. n St. Gabriel School Endowment Fund: For the general needs of this school in Charlotte. n St. Mary Church Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance for children of St. Mary’s parishioners attending Our Lady of Grace and St. Pius X schools in Greensboro and Bishop McGuinness High School in Kernersville. n St. Joseph Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarship assistance for students at Asheville Catholic School. n St. Leo the Great School Endowment Fund: Financial assistance for the general needs of this school in Winston-Salem. n St. Michael School Endowment Fund: For the general needs of this school in Gastonia. n St. Pius X School Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at this school in Greensboro. n Theresa Lasecki Talbert Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at Bishop McGuinness High School in Kernersville. n F. Joseph Treacy Endowment Fund: For scholarship assistance for students in all nine Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools. n Triad Educational Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance to students attending a Catholic elementary or high school in the Triad area. n Villalon Family Endowment Fund: Financial assistance for students at Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School in Kernersville. n Sabrinia Watt Fund: Tuition assistance for students at Immaculata School in Hendersonville. n Sister Paulette Williams Scholarship Endowment Fund: Scholarships for graduating seniors from Charlotte Catholic High School to attend a college of their choice. n Woelfel Family Endowment Fund: Financial assistance at Our Lady of Grace School for student educational purposes; such as purchasing textbooks or technology needs. n Wos-Dejoy Endowment Fund: Tuition assistance for students at St. Pius X School in Greensboro.

2020 Pitman Scholarships awarded SUEANN HOWELL SENIOR REPORTER

CHARLOTTE — Sixteen college students who are Catholic parishioners in North Carolina have each been awarded a $1,000 George Pitman Scholarship from the George Pitman Endowment Fund.

The endowment was established by the late George Warren Pitman, a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist who once lived in Charlotte. He made the scholarships available to applicants who reside in either Mecklenburg County or the town of Dunn, N.C. Pitman, a renowned designer, built a successful business in the Carolinas and Virginia before passing away in 2007 at the age of 79. For more than 30 years, he ran his design firm, George Pitman Inc., from his beautiful home in Charlotte’s Myers Park neighborhood.

He was a graduate of Mount St. Mary’s College in Emmitsburg, Md., and Bright’s School of Design in Chicago, and he bequeathed $1.2 million of his fortune to establish an endowment that funds need-based scholarships to Catholic students who also wish to earn an undergraduate degree.

Through the George Warren Pitman Scholarship Fund, college-bound Catholics can apply for renewable awards of up to $1,000, depending on the type of college (two-year, four-year or vocational) they plan to attend.

A total of 12 sophomores, three juniors and one senior are receiving scholarships. They will attend universities including: Appalachian State University, Belmont Abbey College, Catholic University of America, Duke University, High Point University, Lenoir-Rhyne University, N.C. State University, Purdue University, Queens University, UNC-Chapel Hill, UNC-Wilmington, University of Dayton and University of Texas at Austin.

The application period for the George Pitman Scholarship runs from Dec. 3 to March 1. (For more information, contact Jim Kelley, development director for the Diocese of Charlotte, at 704-608-0359 or email jkkelley@ charlottediocese.org.)

“Mr. Pitman’s transformative gift continues to benefit Catholic students to attend a college or university of their choice,” Kelley said.

He added, “More and more people across the diocese are remembering the Church in their estate plans – gifts from thousands of dollars to millions – and we are thankful for their generosity.”

Those like Pitman who make a planned gift that benefits the diocese or any of its parishes, schools, ministries or agencies become members of the Catholic Heritage Society. The Catholic Heritage Society is comprised of more than 1,300 people in the diocese, many of whom are leaving gifts to the diocesan foundation in their wills.

Since 1994, the foundation has distributed $11 million to the diocese and its parishes, schools and ministries.

August 14, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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SPECIAL COVERAGE: BACK TO SCHOOL

Wide range of faith formation options being offered KIMBERLY BENDER ONLINE REPORTER

CHARLOTTE— Resuming faith formation classes this fall, like everything else, will be a bit different.

Some parishes will continue with online or app-based programs that were used for instruction when the COVID-19 pandemic shuttered most in-person instruction last spring. Others are returning to inperson classes with guidance and safety protocols provided by the diocese’s Faith Formation Office. And some parishes are providing both in-person and virtual instruction, giving families the option to choose which program works best for their needs.

“I am so very impressed by how our parishes have risen to the challenges brought by this COVID-19 reality as they plan and prepare to resume safely in the coming months,” said Paul Kotlowski, diocesan director of youth ministry.

“Their planning has included various contingencies and creative modalities to ensure going forward regardless of what curves the virus throws at our communities.

“Outdoor classrooms, virtual gatherings and other means of maintaining outreach and connection are being employed across the diocese.

I’m particularly impressed with the sensitivity to the concerns and fears of the families being served in these challenging times.”

Over the summer, a Faith Formation Task Force compiled guidelines and protocols for assisting parishes in planning their religious education programs for this academic year. Their recommendations focused on three areas: safety protocols and guidelines for in-person faith formation classes, technology resources for remote/virtual learning and communication, and faith formation resources to assist parishes.

Each parish can consider and apply the

task force’s guidance depending on their specific needs.

“We find ourselves in unique and unprecedented times, and we understand that the circumstances and the needs of the local community can vary from parish to parish,” Chris Beal, diocesan director of faith formation, noted in an email sharing the guidelines with pastors and parish catechetical program leaders. “Let us remember, ‘the primary and essential object of catechesis is, the mystery of Christ… to put people not only in touch but in communion, in intimacy, with Jesus Christ.’

“As we plan to adapt our methodology to our current and ever-changing circumstances, let us remember that the core of our mission has not changed.

As we consider what our programs look like and the ‘how’ in which they will be accomplished, remember our goal remains the same.”

Faith Formation resources At www.charlottediocese.org/ev/covid19-faith-formation-resources: Read the diocesan Faith Formation Task Force’s safety procedures, and see a wide-ranging list of apps, websites and other resources to aid in faith formation at home

Lay Ministry Formation Program opens this fall CHARLOTTE — Classes will begin in October for the Diocese of Charlotte’s Lay Ministry Formation Program, an in-depth formation program for adults who want to better understand their faith and more deeply participate in the Church’s mission.

The Lay Ministry program runs for two years, with classes held in multiple locations across the diocese. It is designed for adults at all levels – anyone who may be interested in serving the Church or who simply wants to further their understanding of Church teaching, scripture, theology and spirituality.

When classes begin formators will be using a hybrid online/in-person instruction model for the 2020-’22 program. Classes will start online in October. In 2021, depending on the situation with the COVID-19 pandemic, the program may be able to resume face-toface classes. Participants take a total of 150 class hours during the two-year program of study, which follows the academic year. The program offers English and Spanish tracks.

Participants will: n appreciate and understand more fully that they are called to and gifted for the lay apostolate by virtue of their baptism and confirmation, n be affirmed and grow in competence and confidence in their present ministries to and with others: the Church, their families and the community, n explore their personal gifts and how those gifts may be used in response to their baptismal call, and n grow in their Catholic faith.

Classes are being planned for Charlotte, Greensboro, Lenoir and the Asheville area,

based on the number of participants who register. In-person classes in the 2020-2022 English program will meet on designated Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., with an hour for lunch. Sessions average about one every three weeks within the academic year.

In-person classes for Spanish program may be held in Charlotte and Hendersonville, depending on registrations.

Classes will meet weekly on Thursday evenings (6:30-8:30 p.m.) in Charlotte and on Friday evenings (7-9 p.m.) in Hendersonville.

Participants must be registered at a parish, provide a recommendation letter from their pastor, commit to actively practicing their Catholic faith, and agree to begin praying at least one segment of the Liturgy of the Hours daily as a part of their regular prayer life.

For more information, contact Dr. Frank Villaronga, diocesan director of evangelization and adult education, at 704-370-3274 or go online to www. charlottediocese.org/ev/adult-education.

— SueAnn Howell, senior reporter

Your DSA contributions at work The Lay Ministry Formation Program is funded in part by contributions to the annual Diocesan Support Appeal. Learn more about the DSA and how you can contribute at www.charlottediocese.org/dsa.

St. Michael Catholic School Your DSA contributions at work

Everything we do begins with Faith and ends with excellence.

The diocese’s Faith Formation Office is funded by contributions to the annual Diocesan Support Appeal. Learn more about the DSA and how you can contribute at www. charlottediocese.org/dsa.

Regina Caeli Academy is starting in Charlotte THIS August!

RCA supports families to provide an accredited, comprehensive, classical education in the Catholic tradition. The University-Style Hybrid™ approach offers both a strong family life enjoyed by homeschoolers and a formative, Socratic classroom experience for students (PreK3 - 12th grade).

Classes will be held at St. Vincent de Paul Church (6828 Old Reid Rd., Charlotte NC 28210.

Apply at rcahybrid.org. Questions? Contact: (470)239-0259 or admissions@rcahybrid.org.

Students will be returning for face-to-face instruction on August 31st, 2020. St. Michael is still currently accepting applications, giving tours and is able to provide financial assistance to families who have been impacted by COVID-19 • Pre K – 8th Grade • Fully Accredited • NEW state-of-the-art STEM Lab and Makers Space • NEW Expanded Science Lab • NEW Special Needs Student Classroom • NEW Safety Protocols and Procedures for COVID-19 • Fine Arts • Athletics, Clubs and Activities

www.stmichaelcs.com 704-865-4382 @smcs_tigers

FACEBOOK.COM/ CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD ESPAÑOL

catholicnewsherald.com | August 14, 2020 10

Padre Julio Domínguez

Cuerpo Místico de Cristo

E

s maravilloso el pensar cómo Dios nuestro Señor nos va llamando a cada uno de nosotros como personas humanas a ser parte de su cuerpo místico.

Es maravilloso el pensar cómo Dios nuestro Señor, desde el momento de nuestro bautismo, inicia esa relación cercana de nuestra alma con Dios y se va cultivando poco a poco hasta formar esa intimidad fuerte con Él a través de los Sacramentos.

Cuando nos ponemos a reflexionar en la realidad de nuestro llamado, nos podemos también dar cuenta de la grandeza y de la responsabilidad de este llamamiento. Por una parte, la grandeza en cuanto que místicamente pasamos a formar parte de nuestro Señor Jesucristo; llamados a testimoniar y dar razón de nuestra fe, amor y esperanza con nuestras vidas. Él es nuestra cabeza y nosotros somos su cuerpo, miembros vivos que actuamos de acuerdo con las enseñanzas y ejemplos de nuestro Señor.

En cuanto cuerpo místico de Cristo podemos imaginar la gran santidad que se irradia sobre nosotros con el simple hecho de serlos, como nos dice San Pedro en su primera carta: “Ustedes son linaje escogido, sacerdocio real, nación santa, pueblo adquirido para Dios a fin de que anuncien las virtudes de aquel que los llamó de las tinieblas a su luz admirable”. Las gracias que recibimos en los Sacramentos son admirables y son los medios que el Señor utiliza para irnos santificando, alimentando y curando y así ser miembros fuertes de su Cuerpo.

Pero debemos recordar siempre que, para ser parte, hay que participar. Y el medio como participamos es a través de una relación íntima y profunda con nuestro Señor. Y esto solo es posible a través de la oración, la recepción frecuente de los Sacramentos, sobre todo la Eucaristía y la confesión, la vivencia de nuestra confirmación y gracias del matrimonio (si este fuera nuestro caso) y, cómo no mencionarlo, la comunión eclesial con todos nuestros sacerdotes y hermanos en Cristo.

El cuerpo místico de Cristo es Santo y lo vamos formando de acuerdo con nuestra inserción en Cristo. Tanto cuanto aceptamos su redención, su doctrina, sus ejemplos, sus medios de santificación, es como nosotros como miembros vamos siendo parte de esta maravillosa Iglesia, que lejos de ser puramente humana tiene su fundamento en lo divino. De aquí cabe decir que nosotros no somos los que “hacemos la Iglesia”, sino que las gracias dadas por Cristo a su Iglesia son las que nos hacen parte de ella, nos van santificando y así nos unimos de manera mística pero real al cuerpo místico de Cristo.

Dios les bendiga.

EL PADRE JULIO DOMÍNGUEZ es el director del Ministerio Hispano de la Diócesis de Charlotte. Vea sus mensajes en video en la página de YouTube de la Diócesis de Charlotte.

SUEANN HOWELL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Nueve jóvenes conforman la Promoción Eco que recientemente ingresó al flamante Seminario Universitario San José que abrió las puertas de su nueva sede institucional en Mount Holly. Ellos fueron recibidos por el rector del seminario universitario, Padre Matthew Kauth, durante una Misa celebrada el pasado 2 de agosto en la Iglesia Santa Ana en Charlotte. Después de la Misa, los nueve hombres y sus familias se dirigieron al nuevo edificio del seminario para instalarse en sus habitaciones. Por primera vez, desde la apertura del seminario universitario en 2016, todos los estudiantes vivirán y estudiarán juntos bajo el mismo techo.

‘Es Cristo o nada’ Nueve hombres más ingresaron al Seminario Universitario San José SUEANN HOWELL REPORTERA SENIOR

MOUNT HOLLY — Nueve jóvenes se han unido al Seminario Universitario San José, lo que eleva la matrícula total a 27, a medida que el seminario universitario inicia el año académico en su nuevo hogar permanente en Mount Holly.

Los miembros de la ‘Promoción Eco’ fueron recibidos por el rector del seminario universitario, Padre Matthew Kauth, durante la Misa del 2 de agosto celebrada en la Iglesia Santa Ana en Charlotte. Después de la Misa, los jóvenes se mudaron a sus nuevas habitaciones.

El Seminario Universitario San José, ahora en su quinto año, es para estudiantes universitarios en discernimiento a una posible vocación religiosa, antes de dar el paso de inscribirse en un seminario mayor para la formación específica al sacerdocio de la Diócesis de Charlotte. Los estudiantes se encaminan hacia la obtención de una licenciatura en filosofía en el cercano Belmont Abbey College, mientras experimentan una vida comunitaria de estilo benedictino en su camino de discernimiento.

En su homilía, el Padre Kauth dirigió unas palabras a los nuevos estudiantes. “Tienen que estar locamente apasionados (para seguir a Cristo)”, les dijo, sonriendo. “No estoy seguro de qué tan lejos llegarán. Tal vez hasta el final. Pero el camino no es solo el sacerdocio. El sacerdocio es un medio que Cristo usa como instrumento para servir a Sus fieles. El camino, por supuesto, es la santidad”.

Partiendo de Mateo 14: 13-21, la lectura del Evangelio del

domingo que relata el milagro de Cristo de la multiplicación de los panes y peces para alimentar a miles, el Padre Kauth les dijo: “El hambre que tenemos por Jesucristo es más grande que cualquier otro”.

El riguroso cronograma del seminario universitario, el trabajo en clases, la intensa oración y los esfuerzos de discernimiento, “todo eso es solo para dejar a un lado todas esas ansias menores, para que se alimenten solo de Dios”, continuó.

“Si van a seguir a Jesucristo, Él lo ha hecho de tal manera que no pueden seguir a nadie ni nada más. Ninguna otra métrica, ningún otro razonamiento, ninguna otra campaña, solo Él. Es Cristo o nada”.

“No tienen idea de con qué los alimentará. Ni idea de cómo va a saciar su sed. Ni idea de cómo Él llenará los mayores anhelos de sus corazones. Pero saben lo suficiente como para dar un paso y esperar, más allá de toda esperanza, que Él se dé vuelta y responda: ‘No los voy a rechazar. Les daré algo de comer’”.

Después de la Misa, los nueve hombres y sus familias se dirigieron al nuevo edificio del seminario para instalarse en sus habitaciones. Por primera vez, desde la apertura del seminario universitario en 2016, todos los estudiantes vivirán y estudiarán juntos bajo el mismo techo. La matrícula en años anteriores fue tan alta que la diócesis tuvo que comprar varias casas para acomodar a todos mientras el edificio permanente estaba en construcción. La sede del seminario fue terminada este verano.

Durante la mudanza, los nuevos hombres y sus familias fueron asistidos por sus compañeros mayores. Ellos hicieron un recorrido para conocer el edificio mientras sus padres asistían a una charla de orientación. Una cena de bienvenida fue el cierre de los eventos del día.

Mayores informes El edificio del Seminario Universitario San José puede estar en gran parte completo, pero la campaña de recaudación de fondos continúa, con 14.5 de 20 millones de dólares recaudados hasta el momento. Para obtener información, visite www. stjosephcollegeseminary.org.

August 14, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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Escuelas católicas reanudarán clases presenciales SUEANN HOWELL Y PATRICIA L. GUILFOYLE CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

estudiantes”.

Para facilitar una reapertura sin problemas, la escuela está produciendo videos para enviar a las familias con información que normalmente se comunica en persona.

“Esto ayudará, puesto que no será necesario reunirnos en grupos grandes como lo haríamos durante las típicas reuniones de orientación”, señaló Miller.

Parks. “También indican caminos de un edificio a otro en el campus. Cada edificio tendrá pasillos de un solo sentido y escaleras para subir y bajar”.

Las áreas comunes como pasillos, capilla, cafetería, gimnasio y los salones de usos múltiples no serán utilizados por grupos grandes y mezclados este año.

Debido a exigencias de distanciamiento social tampoco habrá asambleas escolares.

En lugar de las tradicionales fuentes de agua, se utilizarán estaciones de recarga sin contacto para botellas de agua.

“Estoy muy emocionado de reabrir Holy Trinity a nuestros maestros y estudiantes.

Esperamos tener un año excelente”, dijo Parks.

CHARLOTTE — Las 19 escuelas católicas de la Diócesis de Charlotte se preparan para reabrir ofreciendo instrucción presencial en las próximas semanas.

El 31 de agosto será el primer día de clases para los estudiantes de las Escuelas Católicas del Área de Mecklenburg; escuela Sacred Heart en Salisbury, escuela St. Michael en Gastonia, las escuelas Our Lady of Grace y St. Pius X en Greensboro; escuela Immaculate Heart of Mary en High Point, las escuelas Our Lady of Mercy y St. Leo en WinstonSalem y la escuela secundaria Bishop McGuinness en Kernersville.

El 8 de septiembre será el primer día de IMMACULATA SCHOOL clases para las escuelas Immaculata en Cuando la escuela reabra el 8 de Hendersonville y la escuela en Asheville. septiembre, los estudiantes, personal y Todas las escuelas también realizarán familias notarán una diferencia desde “aprendizaje remoto sostenido” para los el momento en que lleguen, ya que las estudiantes que no puedan asistir debido a mejoras realizadas en el exterior del problemas de salud. edificio han creado una entrada acogedora.

Los maestros ya han comenzado a Parte de las mejoras interiores a esta regresar para preparar y practicar escuela K-8 incluyen medidas de seguridad protocolos de seguridad, limpieza y que incorporan pautas estatales y saneamiento en toda la diócesis, y preparar federales. lecciones y planes para apoyar tanto a los “Una de las bendiciones ocultas (de la estudiantes en persona como a distancia. pandemia) vino en forma de renovaciones “Nuestros esfuerzos se han centrado en en la escuela porque pudimos utilizar ofrecer el regreso más seguro posible fondos programados para la remodelación al campus escolar y al mismo tiempo y asegurarnos que la escuela sea más mantener nuestro compromiso de crear segura”, dijo la nueva directora Margaret una experiencia de aprendizaje lo más Beale. normal posible para nuestros estudiantes”, Se están instalando paneles de plexiglás dijo el Dr. Greg Monroe, superintendente en los escritorios de cada estudiante y de Escuelas Católicas. “Esperamos ver a maestro. Grifos automáticos en los baños, SUEANN HOWELL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD los estudiantes muy pronto”, añadió.

La escuela St. Matthew en Charlotte, al igual que las otras 18 escuelas católicas de la Diócesis de Charlotte, se estaciones de desinfección sin contacto Todas las escuelas católicas de la diócesis en cada aula y en toda la escuela, y las prepara para dar la bienvenida a los estudiantes que recibirán instrucción presencial en las próximas semanas. seguirán la orientación de los Centros estaciones de llenado de botellas de agua En la foto aparece la maestra de jardín de infantes Jennifer Faries. Algunas de las medidas de seguridad que para el Control de Enfermedades, la en lugar de las fuentes tradicionales, se están implementando en todas las escuelas incluyen escritorios socialmente distanciados, cubiertas para el Academia Estadounidense de Pediatría ayudarán a proteger a los estudiantes y rostro, artículos de limpieza y estaciones de desinfección de manos, señalización para el control de tránsito y y el Departamento de Salud y Servicios personal. estaciones de llenado de botellas en lugar de las tradicionales fuentes de agua.

Humanos de Carolina del Norte para “Estamos muy emocionados de que garantizar el entorno de aprendizaje nuestros estudiantes y maestros regresen más seguro posible, incluyendo exámenes de salud, a nuestro campus”, dijo Beale. “Las escuelas de nuestra limpieza y lavado de manos frecuente, protección facial, diócesis realmente se enfocan en educar al niño en su CHARLOTTE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL distanciamiento social, barreras protectoras y otros totalidad, por lo que es necesario regresar a la instrucción La escuela comenzará a utilizar Canvas, una plataforma protocolos para mantener a los estudiantes y personal presencial para que podamos continuar con esa misión. de educación online, a partir del 31 de agosto. sanos y seguros.

Cuando nos reunimos como comunidad somos más “Si bien los maestros hicieron un trabajo sobresaliente Un grupo de trabajo diocesano ha coordinado con fuertes y podemos lograr mucho más que cuando estamos entregando el plan de estudios (último año académico), funcionarios de salud pública para compilar una extensa separados”. usamos múltiples plataformas, lo que fue un desafío para guía para las escuelas, que se adaptarán a las necesidades muchos estudiantes”, dijo el director Kurt Telford.

Beale agregó que en este momento de incertidumbre es de cada una de ellas. importante enfocarse en lo positivo. “La educación está Charlotte Catholic continuará con el día tradicional de Aquí una mirada rápida de lo que algunas escuelas cambiando y estamos al frente de una nueva frontera. Al siete períodos, pero modificado para que solo se realicen diocesanas están planeando: dominar las herramientas para hacer posible la educación cinco clases por día. Todas las lecciones se transmitirán a distancia, estamos equipando a nuestras escuelas para en vivo a través de Canvas. “El día modificado de siete ASHEVILLE CATHOLIC SCHOOL períodos y la transmisión en vivo, nos permite aplicar el que se fortalezcan y estén más conectadas globalmente en Según el director Mike Miller, la escuela estará lista para Plan B 50/50, o el Plan C, con aprendizaje total a distancia”, esta era digital”, dijo. recibir a los estudiantes el 8 de septiembre, después de una “Definitivamente habrá inconvenientes en el camino, explicó Telford. ausencia de seis meses. “Hemos estado trabajando todo pero estoy emocionada por el futuro de la educación A todos los estudiantes se les tomará la temperatura el verano para asegurar que nuestro regreso sea lo más y cómo podemos dejar nuestra marca como escuela antes de entrar al edificio. seguro posible para los estudiantes y el personal”, dijo.

Se eliminará el “homeroom” y los descansos para católica”, concluyó Beale.

“Se agregaron días de trabajo adicionales en agosto para reducir el movimiento de los estudiantes, quienes asegurarnos que los nuevos protocolos estén completos y ST. MATTHEW SCHOOL tendrán más tiempo para llegar a clase y fomentar el se pueda programar capacitación adicional”.

Al igual que otras escuelas católicas de la diócesis, está distanciamiento social. Los pasillos están claramente Las aulas tendrán protectores en los escritorios implementando muchas medidas de protección. marcados con señales direccionales y hay algunas espaciados de acuerdo con las pautas de los CDC. Habrá escaleras de un solo sentido. Habrá plexiglás en cada “Tendremos señalización en el piso (para ayudar con el estaciones de desinfectante de manos en cada entrada y distanciamiento social) y láminas de plexiglás instalado en escritorio de los maestros y en las aulas donde se utilicen aula. Habrá un proceso de revisión que se llevará a cabo algunas áreas alrededor de la escuela”, señaló el director mesas de estudiantes. cada mañana antes que el personal y los estudiantes Kevin Parks.

Para mantener a los estudiantes socialmente ingresen al edificio.

“La cultura de St. Matthew es de comunidad y familia distanciados, un número limitado de estudiantes podrá “También hemos establecido un proceso de ingreso por comer en la cafetería. Algunos estudiantes comerán en sus envuelta en nuestra fe. Parece natural para nosotros la mañana que permite a los estudiantes ir de su automóvil aulas después de recoger sus alimentos. regresar juntos al campus, entendiendo que el crecimiento al aula sin necesidad de tocar ninguna puerta o casillero”, espiritual, académico, social y emocional ocurre mejor “Todo el personal ha trabajado duro para reabrir la agregó Miller. cara a cara”, dijo. escuela de manera segura”, dijo Telford. “Espero ver a los Dijo que algunas familias han optado por acceder a la “Somos muy afortunados al tener un profesorado que estudiantes entrar por las puertas el 31 de agosto. Será la instrucción en línea para comenzar el año escolar, y se está primera vez que tengamos instrucción presencial desde el ha elegido esta vocación de educador católico. Están instalando tecnología en las aulas para permitir que los muy dedicados a garantizar que la seguridad de nuestros 13 de marzo. maestros brinden un aprendizaje sincrónico en todos los estudiantes sea lo primero cuando regresemos a casa, a “Los estudiantes aportan una energía a la escuela que no grados. nuestro edificio de escuela”, dijo Parks. se puede medir”, agregó.

“Esto reducirá la demanda de maestros que enseñarán de manera presencial, mientras que otros estudiantes HOLY TRINITY MIDDLE SCHOOL aprenderán de forma remota”, explicó Miller. “También La escuela utiliza su mascota, un bulldog, para ayudar Para obtener más información, los padres de familia deben hemos contratado personal adicional que nos ayude a a los estudiantes, personal y visitantes a mantener una comunicarse con la administración de su escuela o visitar la cumplir con las nuevas demandas que enfrentaremos este distancia social segura cuando reabra el 31 de agosto. página de web “COVID-19 School Updates” en el sitio web de las otoño. Tenemos más conserjes, soporte de IT y personal “‘Las huellas espaciadoras de Bulldog’ son recordatorios escuelas diocesanas www.charlottediocese.org/schools-office. de apoyo a la enseñanza para mayor beneficio de nuestros visuales del distanciamiento social”, dijo el director Kevin

Para más información

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catholicnewsherald.com | August 14, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Iglesia Santísima Trinidad logra emitir Misas dominicales online CÉSAR HURTADO REPORTERO

TAYLORSVILLE — La pandemia de Coronavirus afectó a todas las parroquias de la Diócesis de Charlotte y probablemente las comunidades más pequeñas, con menores recursos económicos, sufrieron un impacto mayor.

“Al comienzo no sabía qué hacer”, nos confesó el Padre José Camilo Cárdenas, párroco de la Iglesia Santísima Trinidad, en Taylorsville, una localidad situada sobre la carretera nacional 64, a medio camino entre las ciudades de Statesville y Lenoir, cuando en el mes de marzo pasado se canceló la celebración de Misas públicas en prevención del contagio de Covid 19.

“La gente empezó a llamar preguntándome si celebraría Misa”, relató el P. Cárdenas, por lo que decidió continuar celebrando Misa desde el templo. “Si va a celebrar, ¿me puede dar una sillita?”, fue luego el requerimiento.

Entonces, siguiendo las guías de las autoridades estatales y nacionales, se abrió la posibilidad de realizar Misas presenciales con hasta 10 personas.

Los parroquianos, usando protección facial y manteniendo el distanciamiento social, completaron la capacidad limitada del templo, por lo que fue necesario habilitar un equipo de sonido en el salón parroquial para recibir otras 10 personas. Luego, ante una mayor demanda, colocaron parlantes para que quienes, al completarse la capacidad, pudieran escuchar Misa fuera del templo.

Sin embargo, el miedo de una comunidad expuesta al contagio por su trabajo en actividades consideradas esenciales hizo que muchos evitaran acercarse a la iglesia.

Fue entonces que, aunque siendo “una comunidad chiquita”, desearon “hacer sentir que todos son parte de ella y, de alguna manera, puedan estar presentes”, dijo el P. Cárdenas, por lo que decidieron iniciar un trabajo de difusión por internet.

“Todo comenzó con el trabajo de Magda, una colaboradora de la parroquia, que creó la página web”, contó Josefina Cáceres, de 28 años, quien reside desde los 10 años de edad en Taylorsville y sirve como lectora y miembro del grupo ‘Adultos jóvenes para Cristo’.

“Queríamos ser capaces de contactar con las personas, informar sobre la celebración de sacramentos, dar la bienvenida a los nuevos feligreses y establecer la entrega de donaciones online”, añadió.

Ya con la página web, el siguiente paso fue iniciar las transmisiones online de las Misas en español e inglés.

Hace solo dos meses, con recursos limitados, mucho entusiasmo y utilizando un teléfono móvil, pudieron emitir su primera Misa por el canal de YouTube que crearon.

Pese a los problemas técnicos causados por la falta de equipamiento y la pobre señal de internet con la que cuentan, la favorable respuesta de la feligresía los animó a continuar en el esfuerzo. Es así que consiguieron la colaboración de Lorenzo Ríos, un joven apasionado de la música y especialista en telefonía móvil.

“Los visité para ver lo que tenían. Hicimos una transmisión, pero se veía y escuchaba muy feo con la cámara de la computadora y el sonido del micrófono”, contó Lorenzo.

Con pocos recursos compraron una webcam y una tarjeta USB capturadora de audio, ambas muy económicas, logrando mejorar la señal que emiten, al utilizar al mismo tiempo sus teléfonos personales como ‘hot spots’.

Así, semanalmente transmiten las Misas dominicales en inglés y español para una comunidad que valora los esfuerzos de este pequeño grupo de voluntarios para mantenerlos en contacto con su iglesia local.

“En el futuro quisiéramos hacer una venta de comida para comprar una laptop que necesitamos, una mejor cámara, una buena tarjeta para video y audio y así ofrecer un mejor servicio a los feligreses”, afirma Josefina, quien ve un gran potencial de esta tecnología. “Más adelante nos gustaría tener un comité que se encargue del desarrollo y avance de las comunicaciones. No queremos quedarnos atrás nuevamente. Vamos a hacer todo lo posible para que Dios pueda seguir tocando los corazones de las personas en cada rincón de cada una de las casas de nuestros hermanos”.

Los voluntarios esperan que alguna persona se interese en ayudar económicamente al proyecto y les done el equipo que pueda hacer realidad sus sueños de mejorar el servicio comunitario que ofrecen. Además, a finales de este mes, “cuando mejoremos nuestro servicio de internet, comenzaremos a solicitar más voluntarios que nos puedan ayudar en la tarea”, anotó Josefina.

Más online En www.holytrinitycatholicnc.org: aprecie los esfuerzos de la parroquia Santísima Trinidad en la construcción de su página web. En la pestaña “More”, encontrará el enlace con la página de Facebook.

La Asunción de la Virgen María CONDENSADO DE ACIPRENSA

La fiesta de la Asunción de la Santísima Virgen María se celebra en toda la Iglesia el 15 de agosto. Esta fecha tiene un doble objetivo: recordar la feliz partida de María de esta vida y la asunción de su cuerpo al cielo.

“En esta solemnidad de la Asunción contemplamos a María: ella nos abre a la esperanza, a un futuro lleno de alegría y nos enseña el camino para alcanzarlo: acoger en la fe a su Hijo; no perder nunca la amistad con él, sino dejarnos iluminar y guiar por su Palabra; seguirlo cada día, incluso en los momentos en que sentimos que nuestras cruces resultan pesadas. María, el arca de la alianza que está en el santuario del cielo, nos indica con claridad luminosa que estamos en camino hacia nuestra verdadera Casa, la comunión de alegría y de paz con Dios”, dijo el Papa Benedicto XVI en una homilía pronunciada en 2010.

EL DOGMA DE LA ASUNCIÓN

Un dogma es una verdad de fe, revelada por Dios (en la Sagrada Escritura o contenida en la Tradición), y que además es propuesta por la Iglesia como realmente revelada por Dios. El dogma de la Asunción, proclamado el 1 de noviembre de 1950 por el Papa Pío XII, se refiere a que la Madre de Dios, luego de su vida terrena fue elevada en cuerpo y alma a la gloria celestial.

La Bula de la Proclamación del Dogma dice que finalmente, “la Inmaculada Madre de Dios y siempre Virgen María”, preservada libre de toda mancha de pecado original, “terminado el curso de su vida terrenal, fue asunta en cuerpo y alma a la gloria del cielo”.

Ahora bien, ¿por qué es importante que los católicos recordemos y profundicemos en el Dogma de la Asunción de la Santísima Virgen María al Cielo? El Nuevo

Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica asegura que “la Asunción de la Santísima Virgen constituye una participación singular en la Resurrección de su Hijo y una anticipación de la resurrección de los demás cristianos (#966)”.

San Juan Pablo II, en la audiencia general del 9 de julio de 1997, señaló que “el dogma de la Asunción afirma que el cuerpo de María fue glorificado después de su muerte.

En efecto, mientras para los demás hombres la resurrección de los cuerpos tendrá lugar al fin del mundo, para María la glorificación de su cuerpo se anticipó por singular privilegio”.

“Contemplando el misterio de la Asunción de la Virgen, es posible comprender el plan de la Providencia Divina con respecto a la humanidad: después de Cristo, Verbo Encarnado, María es la primera criatura humana que realiza el ideal escatológico (la escatología es una parte de la teología que estudia el destino final del individuo y el universo), anticipando la plenitud de la felicidad, prometida a los elegidos mediante la resurrección de los cuerpos”.

¿CÓMO Y CUÁNDO SUCEDIÓ?

En relación al día, año, y modo en que murió Nuestra Señora, nada cierto se conoce. La referencia literaria más antigua de la Asunción se encuentra en un trabajo griego, De Obitu S. Dominae. De todos modos, la fe católica siempre derivó su conocimiento de este misterio de la Tradición Apostólica.

El hecho es mencionado en los sermones de San Andrés de Creta, San Juan Damasceno, San Modesto de Jerusalén y otros. En Occidente, San Gregorio de Tours es el primero que lo menciona. Los sermones de San Jerónimo y San Agustín para esta fiesta, de todos modos, son apócrifos. San Juan Damasceno formula así

Lecturas Diarias AGOSTO 16-22

Domingo: Isaías 56:1, 6-7, Romanos 11:13-15, 29-32, Mateo 15:21-28; Lunes: Ezequiel 24:1523, Deuteronomio 32:18-21, Mateo 19:16-22; Martes: Ezequiel 28:110, Deuteronomio 32:26-28, 30, 35-36, Mateo 19:23-30; Miércoles (San Juan Eudes): Ezequiel 34:111, Mateo 20:1-16; Jueves (San Bernardo): Ezequiel 36:23-28, Mateo 22:1-14; Viernes (San Pío X): Ezequiel 37:1-14, Mateo 22:3440; Sábado (El Reinado de la Bienaventurada Virgen María): Ezequiel 43:1-7, Mateo 23:1-12

AGOSTO 23-29

‘La Asunción de la Virgen’, óleo en canvas de Luca Giordano (Nápoles, Italia 1634-1705). Cortesía del Museo del Prado, Madrid. la tradición de la Iglesia de Jerusalén: San Juvenal, Obispo de Jerusalén, en el Concilio de Calcedonia (año 451), hace saber al Emperador Marciano y a Pulqueria, quienes desean poseer el cuerpo de la Madre de Dios, que María murió en presencia de todos los Apóstoles, pero que su tumba, cuando fue abierta, a pedido de Santo Tomás, fue hallada vacía; de esa forma los apóstoles concluyeron que el cuerpo fue llevado al cielo.

Hoy, la creencia de la asunción del cuerpo de María es universal tanto en Oriente como Occidente; de acuerdo a Benedicto XIV (De Festis B.V.M., I, viii, 18) es una opinión probable, cuya negación es impía y blasfema.

Este año, las autoridades eclesiásticas han hecho saber que, pese a que la fiesta de la Asunción de la Virgen María es día de guardar, la asistencia obligatoria a esta Misa ha sido dispensada a todos los fieles debido a la pandemia de Covid 19.

Domingo: Isaías 22:19-23, Romanos 11:33-36, Mateo 16:1320; Lunes (San Bartolomeo): Apocalipsis 21:9-14, Juan 1:45-51; Martes (San Luis, San José Calasanz): 2 Tesalonicenses 2:1-3, 14-17, Mateo 23:23-26; Miércoles: 2 Tesalonicenses 3:6-10, 16-18, Mateo 23:27-32; Jueves (Santa Mónica): 1 Corintios 1:1-9, Mateo 24:42-51; Viernes (San Agustín): 1 Corintios 1:17-25, Mateo 25:1-13; Sábado (La pasión de San Juan Bautista): 1 Corintios 1:26-31, Marcos 6:17-29

AGOSTO 30-SEPTIEMBRE 5

Domingo: Jeremías 20:7-9, Romanos 12:1-2, Mateo 16:21-27; Lunes: 1 Corintios 2:1-5, Lucas 4:16-30; Martes: 1 Corintios 2:10-16, Lucas 4:31-37; Miércoles: 1 Corintios 3:1-9, Lucas 4:38-44; Jueves (San Gregorio): 1 Corintios 3:18-23, Lucas 5:1-11; Viernes: 1 Corintios 4:1-5, Lucas 5:33-39; Sábado (Santa Teresa de Calcuta): 1 Corintios 4:615, Lucas 6:1-5

Mix

August 14, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

For the latest movie reviews: catholicnewsherald.com

In theaters

13

On TV n Saturday, Aug. 15, 9:45 a.m. (EWTN) “St. Henry de Osso.” The life of St. Henry De Osso through pictures, music and narration, encouraging your little ones to follow his example by living and loving as Jesus did.

Animated.

would lead to her canonization as St. Rose of Lima, the first saint of the Americas. An EWTN Original Movie.

n Saturday, Aug. 15, 4 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 Saturday, Aug. 15, 8 p.m. (EWTN) “Edith Stein: The Seventh Chamber.” An artistic portrayal of the heroic life of Jewish philosopher and Catholic convert, Edith Stein, who was martyred under Nazi Germany regime in 1942. n Saturday, Aug. 22, 8 p.m. {EWTN) “Saint Rose of Lima.” The faith journey of Isabel Flores de Oliva, whose great love for God and neighbor

Catholic Book Pick ‘The Secret: Dare to Dream’ This adaptation of Rhonda Byrne’s self-help book, ostensibly a romantic drama, is essentially a thinly disguised sales pitch for Byrne’s power-of-positive-thinking philosophy according to which it’s possible to just will one’s self into wealth, opportunity and true love.

A widowed mother of three (Katie Holmes) working for a Louisiana seafood restaurateur (Jerry O’Connell) who pines for her is a prey to bad impulsive decisions and is constantly in debt. Then into her life, not by coincidence, mind you, drops Mr. Right (Josh Lucas) who thereafter serves as the spokesman for Byrne’s outlook. The film does strive to be likable. But the script’s message is a far cry from anything resembling traditional Christian spirituality.

So, although the more usual problematic elements are virtually absent, the movie cannot be endorsed for young viewers. Promotion of a non-scriptural worldview requiring mature discernment, a single crass term.

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

‘The Burnt Orange Heresy’ Literate but mannered suspense drama, set in Northern Italy where a high-powered art dealer (Mick Jagger) gives a shady critic (Claes Bang) the opportunity for a world-class scoop when he offers him the chance to interview a famously reclusive painter (Donald Sutherland).

But he also blackmails the writer into stealing one of the master’s much-coveted works in the process. Aware of her partner’s apparent good fortune but in the dark about his peril is the scribe’s newly acquired live-in girlfriend (Elizabeth Debicki). Sutherland is in clover as a courtly eccentric as, too, is Jagger playing the embodiment of aggressive decadence while cinematographer David Ungaro capitalizes on the foggy loveliness of Lake Como. About a dozen rough terms, a few crude and crass expressions.

CNS: L (limited adult audience); MPAA: R

‘A Catholic Survival Guide for Times of Emergency’ by Deacon Nick Donnelly This short book was written early during the COVID-19 pandemic when churches were closed in response to rising infections and deaths around the world. One thing we have learned from this continuing crisis is that life-changing emergencies can hit at any time. During times of personal, family or national emergency it may not be possible to have recourse to the sacraments or the assistance of clergy at the very moment you desperately need them. Understandably, this can cause great distress and anxiety.

Thankfully, God in His providence has provided traditional devotions, approved by the Church, that give you access to His forgiveness and grace, the assistance of His saints, and guidance from the doctrinal wisdom of His Church.

This book will also provide you with Sacred Scripture for times of emergency, traditional prayers for times of national emergency, and guidance about when and how to perform an emergency baptism.

At www.tanbooks.com: Order your copy of “A Catholic Survival Guide for Times of Emergency.” Catholic News Herald readers enjoy 20 percent off their order – use the exclusive coupon code “CNH20.”

Other Movies:

Please pray for the following priests who died during the month of August:

‘The Grizzlies’: CNS: A-III (adults); MPAA: R

Dr. Cherie Minette uses natural supplements to treat: Anxiety / Depression Acid Reflux / Sleep Hormones / Allergies Cholesterol / Fatigue

Rev. Henry J. Becker – 1992 Rev. William M. Evans – 2012 Rev. Frank R. Gardner – 1991 Rev. Nicholas F. Gibilisco, OSB - 1994 Rev. Martin W. Hayes, OSB - 1992 Rev. Msgr. Felix R. Kelaher – 1998 Rev. Richard T. McCue – 2013 Rev. John F. Parsons - 1993 Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus www.kofcnc.org

Our nation 14

catholicnewsherald.com | August 14, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

CDC director sees health risk in children not returning to school IAN ALVANO CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Dr. Robert Redfield, director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, thinks it is a good idea for schools to reopen and for children to return to school in the fall.

“It’s not risk of school openings versus public health. It’s public health versus public health,” he said during a recent webinar with the Buck Institute for Aging, an independent biomedical research institute based in Novato, Calif.

“And I weigh that equation as an individual who has 11 grandchildren, that the greater risk to the nation is actually to keep these schools closed,” said Redfield, a Catholic.

“You know, a lot of kids get their mental health services, over 7 million, in school. A lot of people get food and nutrition in schools.

Schools are really important in terms of mandatory reporting sexual and child abuse,” the physician explained. “Obviously, the

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, R.M.

socialization is important. And, obviously, for some kids, I think actually a majority of kids, their learning in a face-to-face school is the most effective method of teaching.”

“That said, it has to be done safely, and it has to be done with the confidence of the teachers,” he said. “It has to be done with the confidence of parents. And so I think each of the school districts will begin to wrestle with this.”

“Local school districts are going to have to make these decisions,” he added, and schools should be open with certain restrictions and rules in place, including “wearing a mask, washing your hands (and) maintaining social distancing.”

News reports Aug. 10 said that 17 out of the nation’s 20 largest public school systems have decided to teach students only online. Other public and nonpublic schools are choosing a “hybrid” option with some in-person classes and some online classes. Some Catholic dioceses around the country, including the Diocese of Charlotte, have chosen to reopen their schools for in-person learning, following local health and safety protocols and CDC guidelines to protect students, teachers and staff from the coronavirus.

The CDC’s guidance is aimed at K-12 schools as well as colleges and universities, but “our guidance is not in stone. Our guidance is not meant to be impractical,” Redfield said, “and we have to work with each district as they try to translate that guidance into a functional plan.”

Its lengthy detailed guidance – which can be found online at https://bit.ly/2XODgHV – includes about a dozen recommendations

ranging from encouraging everyone in the school and community to practice preventive behaviors to educating and reinforcing “appropriate hygiene and social-distancing practices” to cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.

“I don’t want people to overestimate the risk of serious illness to individuals that are school age,” Redfield said. “That said, there is a real risk to vulnerable individuals that are teachers, potentially, that may have comorbidities. And, obviously, there are some students that have a comorbidity.”

So schools cannot get ready “faster than you’re ready to do it,” he said.

“None of us is going to compromise safety,” he added about himself and other doctors who support schools reopening.

Children appear to be at lower risk for contracting COVID-19 compared to adults. While some children have been sick with the disease, U.S. adults make up nearly 95 percent of reported COVID-19 cases. Children and adolescents under 18 account for just over 6 percent of all reported COVID-19 cases.

On its website, the American Academy of Pediatrics said that according to Aug. 6 data from U.S. states and the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam, over 380,000 children have tested positive for COVID-19 since the onset of the pandemic.

For info At www.cdc.gov: Get the latest facts on COVID-19 and guidance on how to reduce virus transmission. The CDC also has a toll-free number: 800-CDC-INFO, or 800-232-4636.

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Faith leaders criticize Trump’s plan to reject new DACA applicants CAROL ZIMMERMANN CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Faith leaders and immigrant advocates have denounced the Trump administration’s plan to reject firsttime applications for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, known as DACA, and limit DACA renewals to oneyear extensions instead of two.

Leaders of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops said they were “deeply disappointed” with the administration’s action, announced July 28 in a memo issued by the Department of Homeland Security, and Bishop Jaime Soto of Sacramento, California, described the decision as “irresponsible and recalcitrant.”

The memo was written by Acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf and issued more than a month after the Supreme Court ruled against efforts by the Trump administration to end DACA. When the administration failed to move on DACA after this ruling, a federal judge in Maryland July 24 said it had to publicly clarify the status of the DACA program within 30 days.

DACA, a program that was started in 2012 by President Barack Obama with an executive order, has enabled about 700,000 qualifying young people, described as “Dreamers,” to work, go to college, get health insurance, a driver’s license and not face deportation. These young adults were brought to the U.S. as children by their parents without legal documentation.

Wolf said the administration may try to end DACA by looking at it as a law enforcement issue potentially contributing to illegal immigration. He said the current measure is a temporary change while the federal government takes time to review future actions.

In the memo, Wolf said: “DACA makes clear that, for certain large classes of individuals, DHS will at least tolerate, if not affirmatively sanction, their ongoing violation of the immigration laws.”

For now, the biggest impact will be on those who would have been new applicants.

Attorneys for the Catholic Legal Immigration Network, known as CLINIC, have said that about 60,000 young people now over age 15 would now qualify for DACA status and had been urging young people to get their paperwork together and to seek legal advice about the program since the Supreme Court ruled in June that DACA would remain in place.

Under the new plan for DACA spelled out in the memo, the government also will deny requests by DACA recipients to visit their home countries except under “exceptional circumstances.”

“The new limits outlined in the administration’s memorandum directly and negatively impact immigrant youth, their families, and the communities we serve,” said a July 30 statement by Archbishop Jose H. Gomez of Los Angeles, USCCB president, and Auxiliary Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville of Washington, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Migration.

The bishops said the Catholic Church in the United States has long advocated for the Dreamers, the term given to DACA recipients, and said they will “continue to stand with them.”

August 14, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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In Brief

the Aug. 15 feast of the Assumption of Mary to ensure pilgrims do not arrive anyway. TThe feast of the Assumption traditionally is the centerpiece of the Knock Novena and normally would draw 20,000 pilgrims to the shrine, the statement said. Over the course of the novena Aug. 14-22 as many as 150,000 people normally would go to the shrine for prayer and lectures.

COVID pandemic should raise questions about faith, pope says

Catholic leaders call for prayers, help after massive Beirut blasts

VATICAN CITY — Besides the immediate considerations of trying to stay healthy, to mourn the dead and protect others, the coronavirus pandemic should be prompting Christians to reflect on their faith, Pope Francis wrote. “The pandemic poses fundamental questions about happiness in our lives and about the treasure of our Christian faith,” he wrote in the preface to a short book of initial theological reflections prompted by COVID-19 and its global impact.

Originally published in German with the title, “Being Christians in the Coronavirus Crisis,” the book was curated by Cardinal Walter Kasper and Pallottine Father George Augustin, director of the Cardinal Walter Kasper Institute for Ecumenism, Theology and Spirituality.

AMMAN, Jordan — Lebanese were reeling after a massive explosion at Beirut’s port killed at least 220 people, injured 7,000, and left an estimated 300,000 people homeless after destroying homes, businesses and livelihoods across the capital, and Catholic leaders immediately took action and called for international support. Aid groups said the Aug. 4 blast threatens to open a new humanitarian crisis in an impoverished nation that hosts hundreds of thousands of Syrian refugees and is already struggling to stay afloat amid an economic collapse and soaring rates of poverty and unemployment. Lebanon’s top Catholic cleric, Cardinal Bechara Rai, Maronite patriarch, has called for a U.N.-controlled fund to be set up to manage aid for the reconstruction of Beirut and other international assistance to aid the stricken country.

“The Church, which has set up a relief network throughout Lebanese territory, now finds itself faced with a new great duty, which it is incapable of assuming on its own,” said Cardinal Rai, urging for help “without any political consideration, because what happened is beyond politics and conflicts.”

Knock shrine to close Aug. 15 to discourage crowds during COVID KNOCK, Ireland — The Marian shrine at Knock announced Aug. 10 that in addition to postponing the popular Knock Novena and pilgrimage because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the shrine and its church would be closed for

Weapons must be set aside for peace to flourish, pope says VATICAN CITY — For peace to flourish, weapons of war must be set aside, especially nuclear weapons that can obliterate entire cities and countries, Pope Francis said on the 75th anniversary of the nuclear bombing of Hiroshima. “May the prophetic voices” of the survivors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki “continue to serve as a warning to us and for coming generations,” he said in an Aug. 6 message to Hidehiko Yuzaki, governor of the Hiroshima prefecture, who led a peace memorial ceremony. The pope also invited people to pray for a nuclear weapons-free world after reciting the Angelus Aug. 9. Recalling “the tragic atomic bombardments” of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and his visit there in 2019, which stirred within him “deep emotion and gratitude,” Pope Francis told visitors in St. Peter’s Square, “I renew the invitation to pray and the commitment to a world completely free of nuclear weapons.”

Salvadoran bishops demand justice after rector fatally shot WASHINGTON, D.C. — During his Aug. 8 homily, Bishop Elías Bolaños Avelar of Zacatecoluca, El Salvador, admitted he was still struggling with the Aug. 6 killing of Father Ricardo Cortez, a priest from his diocese who also was the rector of the philosophy department at the St. Óscar Romero Seminary in Santiago de María.

Authorities said they found the priest’s lifeless body near a road, close to a car he was driving, after being alerted early Aug. 7, but he may have

been killed earlier. No one has been charged with the killing. He is the third priest killed in the country in the past 18 months, and most of the country’s bishops showed up to his funeral Mass to demand justice.

Nicaraguan bishops denounce Managua cathedral arson attack as ‘terrorism’ MEXICO CITY — The Nicaraguan bishops’ conference has called an arson attack on the Managua cathedral “an act of terrorism,” but vowed not to be intimidated as a government campaign of intolerance targeting the Catholic Church turns increasingly cruel and involves acts of sacrilege. A still-unidentified assailant entered the cathedral’s Blood of Christ chapel July 31 and threw an explosive device, according to Cardinal Leopoldo Brenes of Managua.

Flames engulfed the chapel, severely charring a 382-year old image of the crucified Christ.

Pope names 6 women to formerly all-male Council for Economy VATICAN CITY — Renewing the membership of the Vatican Council for the Economy, Pope Francis named six women to the previously all-male board that oversees the financial operations of all Vatican offices and entities.

Statutes for the council, approved by the pope in 2015, say the body will have 15 members: eight cardinals or bishops and seven laypeople, IN BRIEF, SEE PAGE 17

Open Positions Western Regional Director – Asheville Assistant Regional Director – Charlotte Case Management Coordinator – Winston-Salem Employment Specialist – Charlotte Business Associate – Charlotte Business Director Director of Development

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Cover letter and resume (2-page maximum) required.

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IN BRIEF FROM PAGE 16

each serving a five-year term. The original seven lay members were all men with experience in business, finance or government. The six women the pope named to replace them Aug. 6 have a similarly high profile and background.

U.S. data group: China hacked computers of Vatican, other Church entities

CNS | COURTESY OSPEDALE PEDIATRICO BAMBINO GESU VIA REUTERS

Pope baptizes twins after successful separation surgery VATICAN CITY — Twin sisters Ervina and Prefina, who had been joined from the back of the head since birth, are pictured with their mother, Ermine, at the Bambino Gesu hospital in Rome in this photo released July 8. Their heads encased in white bandages covering the wounds where they had been conjoined, the 2-year-old twins were baptized by Pope Francis Aug. 6 in the chapel of his residence. The babies from the Central Africa Republic are still hospitalized at the Vaticanowned pediatric hospital, a spokesman said Aug. 10. But their mother “really wanted the pope to baptize them.” A team of doctors, led by Dr. Carlo Marras, chief of neurosurgery at the hospital, performed the final separation surgery June 5. The hospital held a news conference a month later to announce the successful separation of the conjoined twins and their progressive recovery.

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HONG KONG — China has been accused of hacking Vatican computers as well as those in the Diocese of Hong Kong and other Catholic organizations in May. The hacking appears to be an attempt to gain an advantage in ongoing talks between the Vatican and China about a fresh deal on the appointment of bishops. U.S. data monitoring group Recorded Future and its Insikt Group used sophisticated data analysis tools to uncover the cyber espionage, reported ucanews. com. “From early May 2020, the Vatican and the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong were among several Catholic Church-related organizations that were targeted by RedDelta, a Chinese-state sponsored threat activity group tracked by Insikt Group,” the Recorded Future report stated.

Jesuit superior warns of pandemic’s threat to democracy VATICAN CITY — Human lives and jobs are not the only things threatened by the coronavirus pandemic: In many countries, democracy and efforts to build a more just world also are under attack, said Father Arturo Sosa, superior general of the Jesuits. “Democracy can be one of the victims of the pandemic if we do not take care

You’ll also get to hear Timeisha’s story and find out how YOU can walk with single moms in need!

To sponsor the event or host a table, Please contact Marianne at 336.391.6299 or mdonadio@roominn.org For more information, please visit roominn.org/events

with our political condition,” Father Sosa said.

“At this time, for example, many governments – including so-called democratic governments – are taking the path of authoritarianism.” The interview was published on the eve of the July 31 feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits. He said many governments are using the pandemic as an excuse to restrict or end their assistance to migrants and refugees, “which is a great mistake if we want to make the world more fraternal and just. To discriminate against migrants would be and is a great danger and would be a sign of a world that we do not want.”

— Catholic News Service

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, B.H.

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

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

DADvocate Kurt Kondrich is our keynote speaker. His favorite Scripture verse is Proverbs 31:8 --- “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.”

When Kurt and his wife, Margie, became parents to Chloe, who has Down syndrome, it was the start of an incredible journey. Kurt and Chloe are now internationally known advocates for those who have Down syndrome.

Don’t miss this chance to hear their story!

Foundation of the Diocese of Charlotte

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

ViewPoints 18

catholicnewsherald.com | August 14, 2020 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Kathryn Evans

T

St. Catherine Labouré and the Miraculous Medal

here are many amazing saints named Catherine recognized by the Catholic Church; but I am not named after any of them. I was named after one of my mother’s aunts, and my spelling of Kathryn is more typical among Protestants than it is among Catholics.

Spelling variations aside though, it is still inspiring to look at some of the amazing women throughout history whose name I share.

The first Catherine that might come to mind for most is St. Catherine of Siena, that well-known mystic and Doctor of the Church, who had so much influence with the popes of her time despite being a young woman who lived only to the age of 33. Another might be St. Catherine of Alexandria, a virgin martyr of the early Church who also later appeared in visions to St. Joan of Arc to give her counsel.

However, my own favorite Catherine was a modest nun who belonged to the Daughters of Charity in France, an order founded by St. Vincent de Paul. This Catherine was so quiet and humble that for most of her life only her own confessor knew how God and the Virgin Mary had blessed her and shown her favor.

St. Catherine Labouré was 9 when her mother died.

Sorrowfully, St. Catherine turned for comfort to the Virgin Mary, declaring, “Now, dear Blessed Mother, you will be my mother.” Later, as a young nun in the convent, Our Lady personally appeared to St. Catherine; while they talked, St. Catherine rested her hands in Mary’s lap, just as a beloved daughter would. It was in their second meeting that Mary gave St. Catherine the vision and instructions for creating the Miraculous Medal. Our Lady appeared to her standing atop a globe, with rays of light streaming out from her hands, and framed by the words, “O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.” The Blessed Virgin said to St. Catherine, “Have a medal struck upon this model.

Those who wear it will receive great graces, especially if they wear it around the neck. Those who repeat this prayer with devotion will be, in a special manner, under the protection of the Mother of God. Graces will be abundantly bestowed upon those who have confidence.”

When I came into communion with the Catholic Church in 2012, the Miraculous Medal was one of the first devotions I learned about. Our local parish prays the Miraculous Medal novena every Wednesday night during Holy Hour, and one of the first prayers I learned was that which Our Lady gave to St. Catherine. In 2015, I was blessed to be able to attend the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia, and as part of our pilgrimage we visited the Miraculous Medal Shrine. It was there I purchased the necklace which I still wear.

Ever since I joined the Church, I have had a strong love and devotion to the Virgin Mary. However, it was just this past year that it was made clear the love and devotion which she has for me.

One Saturday afternoon back in May, I was out driving and pulled up to a stop sign not far from my house. It’s a four-way stop that I drive through nearly every time I go anywhere, and I know well enough to be cautious. On this day, a large truck pulled up to my right at about the same time I reached the stop, and I duly watched him until he indicated that I should go first. I began to drive through the intersection slowly, keeping an eye on the truck as well as on a car that had pulled up directly across from me. I never saw the car to my left, that apparently did not see the stop sign. I was hit on the driver’s side at full speed, easily 45 mph, and the first thing I knew was that my car was rolling over. It rolled completely at least once, because I was aware of being upside down, but, thankfully, landed right side up. My door was crunched so that I couldn’t open it, and there was a sprinkling of safety glass throughout the interior of the car.

When I say I was miraculously uninjured, I don’t use that term lightly. Not only did I walk away from the accident with nothing worse than some light bruising from the seatbelt and airbags, but I also quickly found my eyeglasses, undamaged, on the seat beside me. It took a little bit longer to find, but my phone was also undamaged – not even a cracked screen. In fact, the only thing that suffered damage was the car itself, and that was a light price to pay for saving my life.

Why do I call this miraculous and not just well-made manufacturing? Because the very first thing I noticed after the car came to rest was my Miraculous Medal on the floor at my feet. The medal had come off the chain still around my neck and was laying there as a clear sign to me of the Blessed Mother’s love and protection that day.

Perhaps it is the filial love for Mary that has always made me feel such a bond to St. Catherine Labouré. I am thankful to have a dear and loving relationship with my earthly mother, yet I have also looked to the Virgin Mary as a mother, too. It was her special protection I felt watching over me that day, and I have since said many prayers of thanksgiving to both her and St. Catherine. I have never felt my own name to be so appropriate.

In uncertain times, in a world that feels increasingly unstable, we could also use the steady love of our Blessed Mother. To learn more about St. Catherine and the Miraculous Medal, I encourage you to check out the website for the Shrine in Philadelphia: www. miraculousmedal.org O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.

KATHRYN EVANS is an author living on the outskirts of Charlotte, where she keeps chickens, experiments with cooking, and reads too many books. Find her work at www.evanswriting.com, including her book, “An Adult-ish Toolkit: 30 Things I Have Learned in 30 Years.”

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Jesuit Father John Michalowski

St. John Vianney: The harvest master’s response Each August we celebrate the memorial of St. John Vianney, the Cure of Ars. He is the patron saint of parish priests. His story is a fascinating one and lets us know once again that God’s ways are not our ways.

John Baptist Vianney was born in 1786 in France and was raised as a shepherd on his father’s farm. He was attracted to the priesthood and began studying with a local priest. Abbe Balley. He struggled with Latin and was a slow learner. He was drafted into the Napoleonic Army, but deserted. The following year Napoleon declared an amnesty for deserters and John entered the seminary at Lyon. He continued to struggle with his studies, but the decision was made to ordain him in 1815 for he was clearly a holy man, although considered not very bright. He spent the first two years after ordination in the parish of his old mentor and then was sent to the village of Ars to become the pastor.

Few in the village went to church, and morality was not the strong point of village life.

Over the next nearly 35 years, he brought people back to church, called people to repentance, and established a school for girls and a house for orphans. Though many of the clergy in his diocese looked down on him as rather slow, God’s grace made John such a good and insightful confessor that his reputation spread and people would travel miles from Paris to go to confession to him. At times he would celebrate the morning Mass and then spend up to 16 hours in the confessional. God gave him the gift of wisdom to see into people’s hearts, so that he could bring them God’s forgiveness, mercy and healing.

The Gospel for his Mass says “the harvest is abundant but the laborers are few, so ask the harvest master to send out laborers for his harvest.” At the beginning of the 19th century, France certainly had few laborers. The French Revolution in the 1790s was a time of great persecution for the Church. Because of its close links to the royalty and the aristocracy, the Catholic Church was attacked, priests and nuns were killed, cloisters were sacked, and even Notre Dame Cathedral was turned into a “temple of reason.” By Napolean’s time, the average French priest was in his early 60s, and this in an age where, if you survived the childhood diseases like mumps, rheumatic fever and smallpox, you might live into your early 60s.

But God is faithful. After the fall of Napoleon, there was a revival of vocations so that by the middle of the 19th century, France sent thousands of men and women to the missions in Africa and Asia.

Today we face a worldwide pandemic in a time where there are few vocations in the West. It is also clear that racism and injustice are still festering sins in our country.

Are we coming to realize how dependent we are on people to pick our crops, prepare our meat and fish, staff and clean our hospitals and nursing homes? Do we realize that few Americans can live on the present minimum wage or even $10 or $12 an hour? Will facing these realities and our own mortality, as well as a need to foster the common good of all persons, help us to truly be pro-life – a dignified life for all people, of every race, nation, age or occupation?

Will younger persons hear God’s call to labor for the harvest in the priesthood, diaconate and religious life?

Let us pray that we might all turn to God in a deeper way so that the harvest, which God so longs for, might be brought in.

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

August 14, 2020 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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Deacon David Powers

We must be willing to act with love in the face of persecution

C

hristians are being persecuted all over the world and very little is being done about it. The question is: How should we respond?

In Iraq, the Church is in danger of disappearing. Over the past decade it has shrunk from nearly 1.5 million people to less than 200,000. The crisis in Syria spilled over into Iraq during the reign of one of the most terror- and hate-filled groups, ISIS. ISIS, before it was defeated in Iraq and Syria, committed mass executions, set churches on fire, and by force applied a radical interpretation of Islamic law.

Thousands of Christians were among the nearly half million people who fled from these brutal terrorists – many fleeing with little more than what they could carry. The small churches in the Kurdish region of Northern Iraq did their best to care for those in need. When many of the Christians returned home, they found their homes were taken over by others and that they were still not welcome in their lands.

From the Middle East to China and to Africa and beyond, Christians and Christian values are under attack by secular media, atheists, political leaders (even those who call themselves Catholic but do not support Church teaching).

Even here in the United States, churches have recently been burned and statues of Jesus, Mary and saints have been defaced or destroyed.

Yet persecution of Christians and the mocking of our beliefs are nothing new.

The Church has been under persecution and ridicule since our Founder was nailed to a cross, and we will be under persecution and ridicule until our Founder returns in glory, to judge the living and the dead.

What can we do? How can we help? Do we throw up our hands in frustration and say that there is nothing we can do? Do we shut our minds and hearts off to the rest of the world, the persecuted Christian peoples who need support? Do we bury our heads into our own activities and pursuits, ignoring the plight of others?

Or do we take a stand for them? Do we advocate for them? Do we pray for them, and for their courage and their ability to persevere?

Here at home, do we refuse to vote for candidates who claim to believe one thing in their private lives but support great evils such as abortion and euthanasia in their public lives? Do we refute the ridicule from others who do not understand our Christian morals and beliefs? Or do we just remain silent and safe? Do we simply hope these great injustices, persecutions, mockings and tragedies will go away on their own?

In the first reading at Mass for the 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time Aug. 16, the prophet Isaiah tells us: “Observe what is right, do what is just; for my salvation is about to come, my justice, about to be revealed” (Is 56:1, 6-7).

St. Paul tells us in his letter to the Romans that besides justice, there will also be great mercy – the kind which only God can bring to the world. In the Gospel reading from

Matthew 15:21–28, we hear that the Apostles wanted to send away the woman calling out to Jesus. Why was His response so remarkable? In those days, social standards dictated that men did not have public encounters with women who were not their relatives. Also, the short-sighted belief at the time was that the Messiah was coming only to save the chosen people of Israel, not the Gentiles. Jesus and the disciples were traveling outside Jewish territory seeking to minister to the lost people from Israel in those lands.

Only gradually did Jesus reveal to His Apostles His universal mission to the world and to all peoples. Only gradually did the Apostles – even in the face of great persecution – spread throughout the lands, bringing both Jews and Gentiles to the faith.

These lands in the Middle East contain some of the oldest Christian communities in the world. Jesus tested the faith of this Canaanite woman – yes, just as our faith is being tested day in and day out. She displayed the kind of faith that was lacking throughout much of Israel, and because of her great faith Jesus healed her daughter.

The faith of these Christian communities in many lands is surely being tested today just as our own faith and beliefs are being challenged. Jesus came to save us all from our sinfulness and selfishness.

To be a Christian in our world today – to seek to live out the teachings of the Church – is to be a person of conviction and a person of perseverance. It is to be someone involved in speaking out against injustice, hatred, violence, ignorance, prejudice, racism and persecution. It is to be someone who loves others and will stand up for those things we hold precious to our faith. It is to be someone who is not afraid to work for peace and justice for our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ, no matter where they live.

To be a member of our Catholic community is to embrace the true meaning of being Catholic – “universal” – by recognizing that when any of the Christians around the world are hated and persecuted, that it is we as a whole who are being hated and persecuted along with them, and that we stand with them in spirit. My sisters and brothers, we must decide after an examination of our own thoughts and actions, where we stand and who we will support with our prayers, finances, votes and public actions. Are we a universal Church, or aren’t we?

We cannot ignore those who are in plight – we must act to help them. We must show that great faith displayed by the woman in the Gospel and we must take whatever actions we can to alleviate the pain and sufferings of others in our world. We must be willing to pray and make sacrifices for our persecuted sisters and brothers. And we must learn to love as Jesus did when He gave His life for us all so we could be free from sin.

DEACON DAVID POWERS serves at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Monroe.

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