July 2, 2021

July 2, 2021

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

Bishop Jugis announces priest assignment changes 5

Diocesan foundation awards $87K in grants 5 INDEX

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One faith, one diverse family united in Christ Sanchez and Wasswa ordained to the priesthood 12-15 Sánchez y Wasswa ordenados al sacerdocio 8-9 Summer vocations camps offer youth a time to explore God’s will for their lives

Con Misa, servidores dieron emotiva despedida al Padre Gregorio

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Our faith 2

catholicnewsherald.com | July 2, 2021 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

St. Bonaventure: ‘The Seraphic Doctor’ Feast day: July 15

Pope Francis

God’s grace transforms sinners into apostles

E

ven the lowliest of sinners can become the greatest of apostles by answering God’s call and allowing His grace to work in their heart and mind, Pope Francis said.

The life of St. Paul, who went “from being a persecutor of Christians for not observing the traditions and the law” to being one of the great apostles, highlights the power of God’s grace, the pope said June 30 during his weekly general audience.

“How often, in the face of the Lord’s great works, does the question arise: How is it possible that God uses a sinner, a frail and weak person, to do his will?

And yet, none of this happens by chance, because everything has been prepared in God’s plan. He weaves our history and, if we correspond with trust to His plan of salvation, we realize it,” he said.

In his main audience talk, the pope continued his new series of talks on the Letter to the Galatians, reflecting on the theme, “Paul, true apostle.”

St. Paul shows “a father’s concern” for the Christian community, he said, and in reading his Letter to the Galatians, “we immediately discover that Paul has a profound knowledge of the mystery of Christ.”

When problems arise, such as the dispute over whether Gentiles must be circumcised, St. Paul did not follow “the shallow arguments used by his detractors” but instead “chose to go deeper, because what was at stake was the truth of the Gospel and the freedom of Christians.”

“He does not stop at the surface of the problems, as we are often tempted to do in order to find an immediate solution that deludes us into thinking that we can all agree with a compromise,” the pope said. “This is not how the Gospel works, and the apostle chose to take the more challenging route.”

One of the ways St. Paul explains his reasoning is by reminding the Galatians of his history of violent persecution against Christians and “that he is a true apostle not by his own merit, but by God’s calling.”

“On the one hand, he insists on underlining that he had fiercely persecuted the Church and that he had been a ‘blasphemer, a persecutor and a man of violence,’ the pope said. “On the other hand, he highlights God’s mercy toward him, which led him to experience a radical transformation, well known to all.”

Pope Francis said St. Paul’s “wonder and gratitude” despite his past showed that, through the grace of God, even one who fought the disciples of Christ “could become a herald among the Gentiles.”

July 15 marks the feast day of St. Bonaventure, called “The he zealously collected documents about St. Francis of Assisi and Seraphic Doctor” of the Church. St. Bonaventure is known for heard testimonies of those who had actually known him. From his leadership of the Franciscans and his great intellectual this information, he compiled a biography of the saint that was contributions to theology and philosophy. adopted as his official biography by the General Chapter of the St. Bonaventure was born in Bagnorea in Tuscany, Italy. He is Friars Minor in 1263. widely believed to have been born in the year 1221, although some St. Bonaventure also wrote numerous mystical and ascetical accounts say 1217. treatises, most famously, “The Soul’s Journey into God.” Sources recount that in his youth, St. Bonaventure was cured of a In 1273, he was appointed by Pope Gregory X as Cardinal and Bishop dangerous illness by the intercession of of Albano. The pope also asked him to help St. Francis of Assisi. He went on to join prepare the Second Ecumenical Council the Franciscan Order of Friars Minor in of Lyons, an ecclesial event aimed at re1243. establishing communion between the Latin After making his vows, he was sent and Greek Churches. to complete his studies in Paris. He was St. Bonaventure worked to prepare the taught first by Alexander of Hales, an Ecumenical Council, but never saw its English doctor and Franciscan, and later completion. He died on July 15, 1274, while

by John of Rochelle. While in Paris, he the council was still in session. He was became good friends with St. Thomas canonized in 1482 by Pope Sixtus IV. Aquinas, with whom he received the In his general audience on March 3, degree of Doctor. He also developed a 2010, then-Pope Benedict XVI spoke about friendship with St. Louis, king of France. the life of St. Bonaventure. He called to In 1257, St. Bonaventure was chosen mind the great works of literature, art, to serve as the superior of the Friars philosophy and theology that were inspired Minor. In this position, which he filled by the Christian faith during the time for 17 years, he brought peace and order. period in which the saint lived.

His impact was so great that today he “Among the great Christian figures is sometimes referred to as the second who contributed to the composition of founder of the Franciscans. this harmony between faith and culture Taking on the position after a period of Bonaventure stands out, a man of action and extraordinary expansion for the order, contemplation, of profound piety and prudent St. Bonaventure worked to preserve a government,” he said. He called on people spirit of unity. He calmed the threat to note “the central role that Christ always of internal dissension that arose over played in Bonaventure’s life and teaching,” differences in interpreting the message and to imitate the way in which “the whole of of St. Francis of Assisi. Central to this his thinking was profoundly Christocentric.” work was his understanding that the — Catholic News Agency study of philosophy and theology did not oppose the call to poverty that was so Also online central to Franciscan spirituality.

At www.catholicnewsherald.com: Read St. Bonaventure proposed a unified about other saints whose feast days are in and collected text regulating the daily July, including: St. Otto, July 2; St. Augustine life of the Friars Minor. The text Zhao Rong and Companions, July 9; St. Kateri was accepted and ratified in 1260 by Tekakwitha, July 14; St. Lawrence of Brindisi, July the General Chapter of the Order in 21; St. Bridget of Sweden, July 23; St. Charbel Narbonne.

Makhluf, July 24; and Sts. Joachim and Anne, Wishing to present an authentic image July 26. of the life and teaching of their founder, St. Bonaventure, as painted by Claude François, c. 1650-1660

‘Meditation on Christ in His humanity is corporeal in deed, in fact, but spiritual in mind.

By adopting this habit, you will steady your mind, be trained to virtues, and receive strength of soul.

Let meditation of Christ’s life be your one and only aim, your rest, your food, your desire, your study.’

— St. Bonaventure

Daily Scripture readings JULY 4-10

Sunday: Ezekiel 2:2-5, 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, Mark 6:1-6a; Monday (St. Anthony Zaccaria, St. Elizabeth of Portugal): Genesis 28:10-22a, Matthew 9:18-26; Tuesday (St. Maria Goretti): Genesis 32:2333, Matthew 9:32-38; Wednesday: Genesis 41:55-57, 42:5-7a, 17-24a, Matthew 10:1-7; Thursday: Genesis 44:18-21, 23-29, 45:1-5, Matthew 10:7-15; Friday (St. Augustine Zhao Rong and Companions): Genesis 46:1-7, 28-30, Matthew 10:16-23; Saturday: Genesis 49:29-32, 50:15-26a, Matthew 10:24-33

JULY 11-17

Sunday: Amos 7:12-15, Ephesians 1:3-14, Mark 6:7-13; Monday: Exodus 1:8-14, Matthew 10:34-11:1; Tuesday (St. Henry): Exodus 2:1-15a, Matthew 11:20-24; Wednesday (St. Kateri Tekakwitha): Exodus 3:1-6, 9-12, Matthew 11:25-27; Thursday (St. Bonaventure): Exodus 3:13-20, Matthew 11:28-30; Friday (Our Lady of Mount Carmel): Exodus 11:10-12:14, Matthew 12:1-8; Saturday: Exodus 12:37-42, Matthew 12:14-21

JULY 18-24

Sunday: Jeremiah 23:1-6, Ephesians 2:1318, Mark 6:30-34; Monday: Exodus 14:5-18, Exodus 15:1-6, Matthew 12:38-42; Tuesday (St. Apollinaris): Exodus 14:21-15:1, Exodus 15:8-10, 12,17, Matthew 12:46-50; Wednesday (St. Lawrence of Brindisi): Exodus 16:15, 9-15, Matthew 13:1-9; Thursday (St. Mary Magdalene): Song of Songs 3:1-4b, 2 Corinthians 5:14-17, John 20:1-2, 11-18; Friday (St. Bridget): Exodus 20:1-17, Matthew 13:1823; Saturday (St. Sharbel Makhluf): Exodus 24:3-8, Matthew 13:24-30

Our parishes

July 2, 2021 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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Summer vocations camps offer youth a time to explore God’s will for their lives SUEANN HOWELL SENIOR REPORTER

BELMONT — After a one-year hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Diocese of Charlotte’s summer vocations camps for young men and women resumed in June. Participation was kept limited, and both were quickly filled to capacity with about 150 participants all eager to deepen their relationship with Christ.

Approximately 67 young men participated in Quo Vadis Days June 14-18, held at Belmont Abbey College.

The goal of Quo Vadis Days is to challenge young men to ask the fundamental question, “quo vadis,” or “where are you going?” while equipping them with the tools and opportunity to discern God’s will for their life.

Priests and seminarians of the diocese interacted with the young men during the week-long camp, which featured talks by clergy, seminarians and others about vocations to the priesthood, marriage and fatherhood.

The young men visited St. Joseph College Seminary in Mount Holly, not far from Belmont Abbey College. They also traveled to St. Mark Church in Huntersville to attend a Solemn High Mass and enjoyed a cookout sponsored by the Knights of Columbus.

“Quo Vadis Days gives the young men of our diocese the chance to take a break from their ordinary routines in order to ask Our Lord that very important question: ‘What do you want me to do with my life?’” said Father Brian Becker, diocesan vocations promoter.

Besides spending plenty of time at Mass and in prayer and discussions, participants also had fun with a Quo Vadis Cup soccer tournament.

“Vocations to religious life and to the priesthood involve fraternity and fun as well,” Father Becker said. “This is why we want the men to have a great experience – not only of the goodness of prayer and the Church’s liturgy, but also of forming bonds with their brothers and having fun together.”

Coordinated by the Daughters of the Virgin Mother, the Duc In Altum vocations camp held June 21-25 filled up this year with 60 participants. Twenty more were given the option to participate in the talks virtually through video conferencing.

Duc In Altum, Latin for “put out into the deep,” is designed to encourage young women to explore God’s will for their CAMPS, SEE PAGE 21

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY ST. JOSEPH COLLEGE SEMINARY AND THE DAUGHTERS OF THE VIRGIN MOTHER COMMUNITY

The Quo Vadis Days and Duc In Altum summer vocations camps were held on the campus of Belmont Abbey College over two weeks in June. Approximately 150 young men and women aged 15-19 attended the week-long retreats. Clergy and religious visited with the youth and shared information and insights with them about their vocations in the Church.

Triad area Knights pitch in to buy new ultrasound system for local pregnancy center LARRY HILL SPECIAL TO THE CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

GREENSBORO — A new ultrasound system funded by local Knights of Columbus helped save the life of an unborn child the first week it was in operation.

St. Paul the Apostle Knights of Columbus Council 13236 recently led a fundraising effort to purchase the state-of-the-art ultrasound system for The Pregnancy Network, Inc., a nondenominational Christian organization based in Winston-Salem that offers help to women facing unplanned pregnancies.

The ultrasound system enables the staff to provide same-day ultrasounds in its new Winston-Salem facility. Seeing ultrasound images of their unborn child often helps expectant moms choose against abortion, and this new system saved the life of one unborn child within a week of being installed, staff reported.

Council 13236 kicked off the fundraising effort for the system last October, committing to provide funds and help The Pregnancy Network acquire the equipment. The North Carolina Knights State Council donated half of the $35,000 equipment cost, and council members raised

additional money and received donations from other Knights councils in the region to secure the remaining amount.

Several Knights councils generously donated funds to make the purchase possible: Our Lady of Grace Council 939, Holy Cross Council 8508, Holy Family Council 9499, Our Lady of Mercy Council 10504, St. Pius X Council 11101, Good Shepherd Council 11267, St. Francis of Assisi Council 12610, Abbot Vincent G. Taylor 4th Degree Assembly 779, and The Knights Club of Greensboro.

A check for $17,500 from the Knights was presented to Judy Roderick, executive director of The Pregnancy Network, and her staff at their new Winston-Salem facility.

Attending the presentation were Greensboro District Deputy John Joyce, Winston-Salem District Deputy Stephen Grimaldi, and St. Paul Council 13236 members Manny Comas (Grand Knight), Peter Ashby (Deputy Grand Knight), Gary Chapman (Financial Secretary), Ken Waldron (Culture of Life Director), Denis Murray (Trustee), and Larry Hill (Chancellor) not pictured.

LARRY HILL is a member of St. Paul Catholic Church Knights of Columbus Council 13236 in Greensboro.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY ST. PAUL THE APOSTLE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS COUNCIL 13236

Staff at The Pregnancy Network in Winston-Salem demonstrate a new ultrasound system funded by a recent donation from local Knights of Columbus. The ultrasound system allows the staff to provide same-day ultrasounds for pregnant women in need at its new Winston-Salem facility.

UPcoming events 4

catholicnewsherald.com | July 2, 2021 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Bishop Peter J. Jugis will participate in the following upcoming events: JULY 2 – 6 P.M. Sacrament of Confirmation Divine Redeemer Church, Boonville

JULY 13 – 6 P.M. Sacrament of Confirmation St. Joseph Church, Asheboro

JULY 6 – 6 P.M. Pastor Installation Mass Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, Charlotte

JULY 15 – 6 P.M. Sacrament of Confirmation St. Joseph of the Hills Church, Eden

JULY 17 – 10 A.M. Ministry of Acolyte Mass St. Patrick Cathedral, Charlotte

Diocesan calendar of events July 2, 2021

CONFERENCES & CATECHESIS

Volume 30 • NUMBER 20

FAITHFUL SERVANT LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE: Faithful Servant, the Diocese of Charlotte’s 40th annual Catholic Leadership Institute, is going virtual for 2021. The conference is open to all interested high school aged youth within the diocese. It will be held online via the Gathertown.com platform July 11, 12, 15, 19 and 22. For details, go to www.charlottediocese.org/ev/youth/ events/faithful-servant or contact Paul Kotlowski at 828228-1692 or pjkotlowski@charlottediocese.org.

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

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

ESPAÑOL

STAFF EDITOR: Patricia L. Guilfoyle 704-370-3334, plguilfoyle@charlottediocese.org ADVERTISING MANAGER: Kevin Eagan 704-370-3332, keeagan@charlottediocese.org SENIOR REPORTER: SueAnn Howell 704-370-3354, sahowell@charlottediocese.org ONLINE REPORTER: Kimberly Bender 704-808-7341, kdbender@charlottediocese.org HISPANIC COMMUNICATIONS REPORTER: Cesar Hurtado, 704-370-3375, rchurtado@charlottediocese.org GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Tim Faragher 704-370-3331, tpfaragher@charlottediocese.org COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT/CIRCULATION: Erika Robinson, 704-370-3333, catholicnews@ charlottediocese.org

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

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

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

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UNA VIGILIA DE ADORACIÓN POR LA PAZ Y LA JUSTICIA EN NICARAGUA: Los jueves a las 6 p.m., nos reunimos en la Catedral San Patricio para, que en estos últimos meses está pasando por momentos turbulentos y ataques físicos contra la Iglesia Católica, sus templos, y sus Obispos. Todos son bienvenidos a unirse a la Adoración, rezar el Santo Rosario y la corona de adoración y reparación, y terminando con la oración de exorcismo de San Miguel Arcángel. La vigilia de oración es en español. Vigilias de julio: 8, 15, 22 y 29.

VIGILIA DE LOS DOS CORAZONES: Primer viernes y sábado del mes, en la Catedral San Patricio, 1621 Dilworth Road East, Charlotte. Únase cada primer viernes del mes a una vigilia nocturna para honrar los Corazones de Jesús y María, orar por nuestras familias, ofrecer penitencia por nuestros pecados y pedir por la conversión de nuestra nación. La devoción comienza el viernes 2 de Julio a las 8 p.m. con la celebración de la Santa Misa, seguido de Adoración nocturna y concluye con la Misa del sábado el 3 de Julio a las 8 a.m.

Para inscribirse a una hora de Adoración, visite www.

ProLifeCharlotte.org/dos-corazones.

PRAYER SERVICES & GROUPS VIGIL OF THE TWO HEARTS: First Fridays and First Saturdays, St. Patrick Cathedral, 1621 Dilworth Road East, Charlotte. The next vigil will be July 2-3, with Father Jacob Mlakar as Friday’s celebrant. Join each First Friday through First Saturday of the month in an overnight vigil to honor the Hearts of Jesus and Mary, and to offer penance and pray for the conversion of our nation. To sign up for Eucharistic Adoration times, go to www.ProLifeCharlotte.org/two-hearts.

33-DAY CONSECRATION TO ST. JOSEPH: Just as Jesus and Mary entrusted themselves entirely to the care and protection of St. Joseph as head of the Holy Family, so too can we follow their example. Consider making a consecration to St. Joseph using “Consecration to St. Joseph: The Wonders of Our Spiritual Father” by Father Donald Calloway, MIC. Starting the 33-day series of prayers on Tuesday, July 20, would conclude on Saturday, Aug. 21, the feast of Our Lady of Knock. Learn more at www.yearofstjoseph.org.

SAFE ENVIRONMENT TRAINING “Protecting God’s Children” (Protegiendo a los Niños de Dios”) workshops educate parish volunteers to

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY CONNIE RIES AND AMY BURGER

Summer faith formation opportunities abound Summer is here, and that means Totus Tuus camps and Vacation Bible Study programs are under way at parishes across the Diocese of Charlotte. Totus Tuus is a summer Catholic youth program dedicated to sharing the Gospel and promoting the Catholic faith through evangelization, catechesis, Christian witness and Eucharistic worship.

Totus Tuus, a Latin phrase meaning “totally yours,” was the motto of St. John Paul II. Taken from St. Louis de Montfort’s “True Devotion to Mary,” it signifies our desire to give ourselves entirely to Jesus Christ through Mary. The week-long program is split into grades K-6 and 7-12, and this year it is being offered at 20 parishes. Learn more about Totus Tuus online at www.charlottediocese.org/ev/totus-tuus.

Pictured: St. Mark Parish youth enjoyed Totus Tuus the week of June 13-17. St. Philip the Apostle Church in Statesville also held Vacation Bible School for three evenings in early June. The theme of the week was the “Fruits of the Holy Spirit.” Children aged 3 to 12 participated in crafts, story time and music, with a giant inflatable slide and a bounce house at the end of each session. recognize and prevent child sexual abuse. For details, contact your parish office. To register for inperson or online training and confirm workshop times, go to www.virtus.org. Upcoming workshops are: ASHEBORO: 8-11 a.m. Saturday, July 17, at St. Joseph Church, 512 West Wainman Ave. Spanish only.

FRANKLIN: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, July 31, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 299 Maple St. English only. Lunch provided.

HICKORY: 2-5 p.m. Friday, July 30, and 2-5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 27, at St. Aloysius Church, 921 Second St. N.E. Both sessions will be offered in Spanish only.

HIGH POINT: 6-9 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 2, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 4145 Johnson St. Meet in St. Edwards A.

SUPPORT GROUPS RACHEL’S VINEYARD: Are you or a loved one seeking healing from the effects of a past abortion? Rachel’s Vineyard weekend retreats are offered by Catholic Charities for both men and women in the diocese. For details about upcoming retreats, contact Jackie Childers at 980-241-0251 or Jackie.childers1@gmail.com, or Jessica Grabowski at 910585-2460 or jrgrabowski@charlottediocese.org.

IS YOUR PARISH OR SCHOOL hosting a free event open to the public? Deadline for all submissions is 10 days prior to desired publication date. Submit in writing to catholicnews@charlottediocese.org.

July 2, 2021 | catholicnewsherald.com

Bishop Jugis announces priest assignment changes CHARLOTTE — Bishop Peter J. Jugis announces the following priests will transfer to new assignments, effective July 13, 2021, unless otherwise noted:

Ascik

n Father Peter N. Ascik, from parochial vicar of St. Matthew Catholic Church in Charlotte, to pastor of St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church in Shelby and Christ the King Catholic Mission in Kings Mountain n Father Matthew P. Bean, from parochial vicar of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Charlotte, to parochial vicar of St. Mark Catholic Church in Huntersville

McCanless

Melo

Mlakar

Carvajal Salazar

Gamez

n Father Alfonso Gamez, from parochial vicar of St. Mark Catholic Church in Huntersville, to parochial vicar of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church and Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Chapel, both in Winston-Salem, effective Aug. 31, 2021

n Father José Enrique Gonzalez Gaytán, departing as pastor of Divine Redeemer Catholic Church in Boonville to take a sabbatical year

Torres

Torres

Lhoposo

n The Congregation of the Mission (the Vincentians) has reassigned Father Leo Tiburcio, CM, from parochial vicar of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Charlotte to serve as pastor, effective July 4, 2021, succeeding Father Gregory Gay, CM, who has been transferred to ministry with his order outside the Diocese of Charlotte.

Gay n Father Jonathan D. Torres, from parochial vicar of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Hendersonville, to parochial vicar of St. Matthew Catholic Church in Charlotte and assistant chaplain of Charlotte Catholic High School n Father Nohé Torres, from parochial vicar of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Lenoir, to parochial vicar of St. Lawrence Basilica in Asheville and parochial vicar of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Hendersonville

Zdancewicz

Angelini

n Newly ordained Father Joseph Wasswa, to parochial vicar of Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church in Greensboro

Gonzalez Gaytan n Father Jean Pierre Swamunu Lhoposo, from pastor of St. James Catholic Church in Hamlet and Sacred Heart Catholic Mission in Wadesboro, to pastor of Divine Redeemer Catholic Church in Boonville

Tiburcio

Sanchez

In addition: n The USA East Province of the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits) assigned Father Tim Stephens, SJ, to serve as pastor of St. Peter Catholic Church in Charlotte beginning this month, succeeding Father James Shea, SJ, who has been transferred to ministry with his order outside the Diocese of Charlotte.

Shea

n Newly ordained Father Juan Miguel Sanchez, to parochial vicar of St. Matthew Catholic Church in Charlotte and assistant chaplain at Charlotte Catholic High School

Carlson n Father Gabriel Carvajal Salazar, from parochial administrator to pastor of Our Lady of the Highways Catholic Church in Thomasville

n Father Fidel Melo, from parochial administrator of St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church in Shelby, to pastor of St. James Catholic Church in Hamlet and Sacred Heart Catholic Mission in Wadesboro

Stephens

n Father Jacob A. Mlakar, from parochial vicar of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Charlotte, to parochial vicar of Holy Cross Catholic Church in Kernersville

Bean n Father Michael J. Carlson, from parochial vicar of Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church in Greensboro, to parochial vicar of St. Mark Catholic Church in Huntersville

n Father David R. McCanless, from parochial vicar of St. Lawrence Basilica in Asheville, effective July 13, to pastor of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church and Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Chapel, both in Winston-Salem, effective Aug. 31, 2021

n The Order of Friars Minor Conventual (the Conventual Franciscans) have announced they will depart service at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church and Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Chapel in Winston-Salem by Aug. 31, 2021. Departures include Father Carl Zdancewicz, OFM Conv, pastor; Father Joseph Barry Angelini, OFM Conv, pastor emeritus; and Father Daniel Pal, OFM Conv, parochial vicar. As noted above, the Diocese of Charlotte has assigned Father David R. McCanless to serve as pastor and Father Alfonso Gamez as parochial vicar.

— Catholic News Herald

OUR PARISHESI

Diocesan foundation awards $87K in grants SUEANN HOWELL SENIOR REPORTER

CHARLOTTE — The Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte has awarded 20 grants totaling $87,010 to 10 parishes and missions, six diocesan outreach ministries, and four Catholic schools.

The annual awards, ranging from $1,500 to $5,000, are based on need and the impact the funds are expected to have on local communities.

Grant recipients include a $3,650 grant to St. Stephen Mission in Elkin, which plans to use the money to host a bilingual parish retreat, and the Diocese of Charlotte Respect Life Office, which will use its $3,360 grant to expand access to Rachel’s Vineyard, a ministry that hosts healing retreats for women who have had abortions.

Four Catholic Charities offices across the diocese have also been awarded grants up to $5,000.

The Charlotte regional office will use its grant for supportive services in its “Welcome Home” program that assists the homeless. Catholic Charities’ Lenoir office will use its grant money to provide bilingual services and financial assistance to families facing economic emergencies in Alexander, Burke, Caldwell and Catawba counties, and its Piedmont/Triad office will do the same in providing charitable outreach in Forsyth and surrounding counties.

Since 2001, the foundation has awarded 396 grants totaling $1,095,904. These grants are distributed from four of the foundation’s 300-plus endowments.

“These almost 400 grants given GRANTS, SEE PAGE 21

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN 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.)

Wasswa

Pal

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3 Our Father, 3 Hail Mary, 3 Glory Be Published in gratitude for prayers answered.

Thank you, M.E.

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catholicnewsherald.com | July 2, 2021 OUR PARISHES

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

are Gary Carlson, Vice President Wes Sterling, John Pokorney, Executive Director Becky Miller, Al Stenco and Greg Songhurst.

— Patrick Hession, correspondent

In Brief

Bishop visits parishes

Preschoolers help MiraVia

HUNTERSVILLE — Last week newly installed Bishop Michael Bibi of the Diocese of Buea, Cameroon, visited several parishes where priests from his diocese are currently serving. Seven priests from the Buea diocese are ministering in the Diocese of Charlotte, including Father Melchesideck Yumo, who serves as parochial vicar at St. Mark Church in Huntersville and Father Moses Njoh, campus minister at High Point University. They are pictured above with Bishop Bibi and clergy of St. Mark Church (Father John Putnam, pastor, and Father Alfonso Gamez, parochial vicar) during his visit to the Huntersville church on June 26-27.

CHARLOTTE — St. Vincent de Paul Preschool recently held a successful donation drive to benefit MiraVia, a pregnancy care center in Charlotte. Families and students were asked to send in items such as diapers, shampoo, lotions, baby wipes and clothing in an effort to support the women and children who seek assistance through MiraVia. More than 50 items – ranging from diaper ointment to strollers – were delivered to MiraVia. — Mary Helen Cushing

— Amy Burger

Horeth Scholarship presented

Father Gay honored CHARLOTTE — Before his assignment as pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Charlotte was completed, Vincentian Father Gregory Gay was recognized by the North Carolina Knights of Columbus State Council as the 2020-2021 Priest of the Year for his dedication to his parish, community and the Knights of Columbus. Pictured are (from left) State Deputy J.C. Reiher, Father Gay, State Chaplain Father William Lesak, State Treasurer Sergio Miranda, and State Secretary Chris Losack.

— M.J. Schneider

Alleghany non-profit benefits from Knights donation SPARTA — The Alleghany County Group Home in Sparta is the recipient of a recent $250 donation from the Knights of Columbus Roundtable at St. Frances of Rome Mission. The money was raised through participation in the L.A.M.B. (Least Among Our Brethren) program.

The funds are earmarked for support of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Pictured

CHARLOTTE — The 12th annual Jordan Michael Horeth scholarship was presented June 13 after a baccalaureate Mass at St. John Neumann Church. This year’s recipient was Katherine Bertsch, who will be attending Florida Atlantic University. She is pictured with Michael and Karen Horeth, Madison Gregory (Jordan’s sister), and Father John Starczewski, pastor.

— M.J. Schneider

SPX Knights award essay contest winners GREENSBORO — The St. Pius X Knights of Columbus Council 11101 recently selected Jack Ritzel, Chase Lux and Samantha Jones as cowinners of its 2021 essay contest. The annual essay contest gives St. Pius X students an opportunity to define themselves and their roles as students and citizens grounded in faith in our community, as well as strengthens the bonds between the student body and the Knights of Columbus.

This year, the judges determined that the three students’ essays merited equal recognition, awarding winning certificates and $50 gift cards to each student. Pictured are (from left): Bill Parker, religion instructor at St. Pius X School; contest winners Jack Ritzel, Chase Lux and Samantha Jones; Monsignor Anthony Marcaccio, pastor: Brian Harvey, Grand Knight; and Chris Kloesz, principal.

— John Russell

Retired High Point deacon passes away, aged 86 HIGH POINT — Deacon Thomas Jerome Kak passed June 25, 2021, at Hospice of the Piedmont following a brief illness. He was 86.

A funeral Mass and interment at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in High Point will be held privately.

A Chicago native, Deacon Kak made High Point his home 50 years ago.

Kak He was born July 22, 1934, and graduated from the University of Tampa with an undergraduate degree and the University of Notre Dame with a master’s degree in English.

He lived his life in service to others. He was employed as a teacher for several local schools including Westchester Academy and Guilford Technical Community College. In addition, he retired from the N.C. Employment Security Commission, where he worked as a career counselor. He and his wife spent many hours in the community volunteering time and talent with High Point Regional Hospital, the Community Clinic of High Point, Open Door Ministries, the High Point Museum and the High Point Theatre. He also performed in many plays for the High Point Theater.

Deacon Kak was ordained for the Diocese of Charlotte on June 11, 1989, by Bishop John F. Donoghue. He served as a

deacon for 32 years, including 19 years as a deacon at his home parish, Immaculate Heart of Mary Church. He also was a member of the Knights of Columbus.

In retirement from active ministry in 2008, he always expressed his love for the Church and served it with utmost humility.

Many in High Point knew Deacon Kak as a frequent contributor to the letters to the editor section of the High Point Enterprise. He was an avid reader and was often seen around town with his favorite companion, his dog.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Emily Ann Kak. Prior to her death, Deacon Kak and his wife were active members of the IHM parish community.

They were involved in parish life, the liturgies of the church and in parish outreach into the community.

He is survived by his daughters, Emily “Phil” Gomez and her husband Rocky of High Point, Debra Lynn Welborn and her husband Robert of High Point, and Kali Griggs of Greensboro; grandchildren Racheal Newman, Mackenzie Welborn, and Taylor and Tyler Griggs; and a greatgrandson, David Byerly.

The family requests memorial contributions to be sent to Hospice of the Piedmont, 1801 Westchester Dr., High Point, N.C. 27262.

Condolences may be expressed online at www.wrightfs.com.

Wright Funerals-Cremations was in charge of the arrangements.

— Catholic News Herald

Order of Malta members make a special visit to Holy Angels SHAWN FLYNN SPECIAL TO THE CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

BELMONT — The board of directors for the Order of Malta Federal Association took a break from its quarterly meeting at Belmont Abbey to make a special visit to Holy Angels June 24.

“This is a love story,” told Holy Angels EVP/Chaplain Dennis Kuhn told the visitors. “It started out of love for a mother to find her baby, who wasn’t supposed to live more than three months, a home. Who would have known that one little baby would have created this mission of mercy?”

That is the story of Maria Morrow, the very first angel of Holy Angels. Since its founding in 1955 by the Sisters of Mercy, Holy Angels has provided residential services and innovative programs for children and adults who have intellectual developmental disabilities with delicate medical conditions.

The Order of Malta has been one of Holy Angels’ most generous supporters over the years, providing multiple grants that among other things have funded the Bishop Curlin Health Clinic, mechanical lifts, renovations of bathing rooms for Holy Angels’ youngest residents and, most recently, personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The Order of Malta continues to demonstrate its mission of helping to serve the vulnerable and the sick,” said Holy Angels CEO/President Regina Moody. “Members of the Order of Malta

PHOTO PROVIDED BY HOLY ANGELS

Members of the Federal Association of the Order of Malta meet residents of Holy Angels during a special visit June 24. not only bless us with their treasure, but their time and talents as well, volunteering to assist our angels. They show us so much love.”

During their visit last week, members of the Order of Malta took the opportunity to meet and bless several residents of Holy Angels.

The visitors received a special “mercy moment” when Butch, the oldest resident of Holy Angels, said a special prayer for them.

ANGELS, SEE PAGE 21

July 2, 2021 | catholicnewsherald.com

OUR PARISHESI

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Celebrating the sacraments

PHOTO PROVIDED BY AMBER MELLON

BOONE — Several of the youth of St. Elizabeth Church were confirmed by Bishop Peter Jugis on April 21.

Confirmandi are pictured with the bishop and their pastor, Father Brendan Buckler.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY AMY BURGER

HUNTERSVILLE — Bishop Peter Jugis administered the sacrament of confirmation to 170 teens during two recent Masses at St. Mark Parish. Pictured are (left) Alexandra Maria Hernandez with her sponsor Raquel Neri, and (right) Blake Nicholson with his sponsor Father Alfonso Gamez.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY CONNIE RIES

PHOTO PROVIDED BY MARKUS KUNCORO

CHARLOTTE — Seven children received their first Holy Communion during Mass in the Extraordinary Form May 16 at St. Ann Church. Pictured with their pastor, Father Timothy Reid, are Clare Cascio, Jacob Cooper, Luke Doll, Emilia Ferrante, Benedict Grabowski, Gabriel Guerra and Dominic Russo.

STATESVILLE — Twenty children and young adults received their first Holy Communion at St. Philip the Apostle Church May 1. Father Thomas J. Kessler celebrated Mass for the First Communicants and their families. At the end of Mass, a brief procession was held to crown a statue of the Virgin Mary and to place flowers in her honor. After Mass, a gathering in the social hall was held in which cake and refreshments were served. First Communicants included: Glenda Aniceto Rivera, Kevin Aniceto Rivera, Alyn Arce Rodríguez, Diego Canchola Rodríguez, Nicolas Casas Maya, Santiago Casas Maya, Brenda Castañeda, Abilene Enciso Aguilar, Yahir Enciso Aguilar, Keiry Lucena Mariano, Anthony Monzón-Mariano, Christofer Monzón-Mariano, Stacey Valdez, Fernanda Vázquez Rodríguez, Yahir Vázquez Rodríguez, Jasmine Cuanas-Basilio, Marín Gaona-Romero, Gisel López Cruz, Dan Trifaro and Louis Varoli.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY CONNIE RIES PHOTO PROVIDED BY BOB HAYES

MINT HILL — Eighteen youth at St. Luke Church recently received the sacrament of confirmation from Bishop Peter Jugis. Confirmandi pictured with Bishop Jugis and their pastor, Father Paul Gary, are Brandon Bernal, Angel Juarez, Abigail Grupp, Alejandra Salinas, Alejandro Galvan-Torres, Anna Shields, Claire Kramb, Daniel Sanchez, Emely Espinoza, Emily Contreras, Fernanda Rosales-Salinas, Helena Guerrero, Kieran Spang, Luke Valentine, Mary Gaertner, Matthew Platnick, Michelle Garcia and Rose Flynn.

STATESVILLE — On May 12, Father Thomas J. Kessler, pastor, confirmed 26 candidates at St. Philip the Apostle Church. Enrique Arreola, Kayleigh Arreola, Elizabeth Casteneda, Juan A. Coronado, Brock Cotton, Cynthia CuanasBasilio, Marlen Cuanas-Basilio, Cynthia Enciso Aguilar, Anai Gaona-Romero, Cory Haneline, Rodolfo Jr. Hernandez, Alyssa Jones, Mary Catherine Kelley, Chloe Kenyon, Yanelix Lopez, Laney Medina, Bryce Ray Overcash, Bryan Pleitez, Keyla Reyes Sanchez, Christopher Robbins, Israel Santivanez, Pedro Soto Lopez, Regina Trifaro, Lizett Valdez, Estrella Vargas and Samuel Williams received the sacrament of confirmation.

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catholicnewsherald.com | July 2, 2021

El obispo Peter Jugis (centro) se arrodilla durante la Letanía de Súplica mientras se canta la Letanía de los Santos durante el rito de ordenación del padre Juan Miguel Sánchez y el padre Joseph Wasswa. Los dos fueron ordenados al sacerdocio el 19 de junio durante una misa de dos horas en la iglesia St. Mark en Huntersville.

JAMES SARKIS | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Una fe, una familia diversa unida en Cristo Sánchez y Wasswa ordenados al sacerdocio SUEANN HOWELL Y KIMBERLY BENDER CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

HUNTERSVILLE — La unidad en la diversidad se mostró plenamente en la Diócesis de Charlotte con la ordenación de dos sacerdotes originarios de México y Uganda, que inician sus vidas como sus sacerdotes más nuevos.

El Obispo Peter Jugis, nacido en Charlotte, ordenó al Padre Juan Miguel Sánchez y al Padre Joseph Wasswa en una jubilosa Misa el 19 de junio. Los dos hombres, relativamente recién llegados al oeste de Carolina del Norte, se unen a las filas de 154 sacerdotes, de los que más de un tercio de los cuales son hombres de color, en una diócesis que engloba a más de 515.000 católicos.

Los sacerdotes recién ordenados expresaron su profunda gratitud a quienes los ayudaron a alcanzar este momento tan sagrado, ya que el Padre Sánchez se une a la Iglesia San Mateo de Charlotte para servir como vicario parroquial y el Padre Wasswa asume el mismo cargo en la Iglesia Nuestra Señora de Gracia en Greensboro.

“Siempre estaré agradecido con todas las personas que hicieron posible mi sacerdocio”, dijo el Padre Sánchez a Catholic News Herald. “Espero servir en la Diócesis de Charlotte y crecer juntos en el amor de Dios y del prójimo”.

Crecer en una cultura diferente, dijo el Padre Wasswa, amplió su visión y le hizo apreciar la universalidad de la fe

Más online En www.catholicnewsherald.com: Vea el video de resumen, la homilía completa del Obispo Jugis y muchas más fotos de la Misa de ordenación del 19 de junio.

católica, perspectiva que lo ayudará en su ministerio.

“Puedo identificar los puntos en común y las diferencias, luego tratar de rastrear aquello que nos une: nuestra fe”, dijo, “Hay cosas en la fe que se aplican a todas las culturas.

Esta es una familia, sin importar dónde estemos”.

Con la mayoría de las restricciones pandémicas ahora levantadas, la Iglesia San Marcos en Huntersville se llenó al máximo el 19 de junio con familiares, amigos, clérigos y religiosos que asistieron a la Misa de ordenación de dos horas. Entre los asistentes estuvieron los padres del Padre Sánchez y trece de sus catorce hermanos de México.

Amigos cercanos de la parroquia adoptiva del Padre Wasswa en Salisbury vinieron a ofrecer su apoyo, ya que su familia no pudo viajar desde Uganda.

Al inicio de la Misa, ambos hombres fueron presentados para la ordenación por el Padre Christopher Gober, director diocesano de vocaciones, “Reverendísimo Padre, la Santa Madre Iglesia le pide que ordene a estos, nuestros hermanos, a la responsabilidad del sacerdocio”.

La congregación estalló en una fuerte ovación cuando

el Obispo Jugis los aceptó formalmente para el orden sacerdotal.

Ambos hombres tuvieron que realizar un largo camino para llegar a este momento. Los primeros años del Padre Sánchez en México los pasó en una granja de un pequeño pueblo antes de mudarse con sus padres y hermanos a la ciudad de Guadalajara. Llegó a los Estados Unidos a los 20 años y se puso a trabajar en construcción con sus hermanos mayores. A pesar de no contar con un diploma de escuela secundaria, el Padre Julio Domínguez lo alentó a continuar sus estudios. Obtuvo su diploma de equivalencia de escuela secundaria antes de ingresar a la formación en la Pontificia Universidad Josephinum en Ohio. Luego se unió a los pocos seminaristas diocesanos seleccionados para estudiar teología en la Pontificia Universidad Norteamericana en Roma.

El Padre Wasswa, uno de ocho hermanos, llegó a Carolina del Norte en 2015 para explorar una vocación religiosa en la orden benedictina. Ingresó al noviciado en Belmont Abbey, pero allí discernió un camino diferente como sacerdote diocesano. Dijo que simplemente se enamoró de la diócesis y su gente, y decidió continuar localmente sus estudios para el sacerdocio en lugar retornar a Uganda. Ya había estudiado durante un tiempo en el Seminario Mayor Nacional Katigongo en Masaka, Uganda, antes de llegar a CRISTO, PASA A LA PÁGINA 21

July 2, 2021 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

AMY BURGER | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

El padre Wasswa se arrodilla ante el obispo Peter Jugis mientras invoca al Espíritu Santo mediante la oración y la imposición de manos durante el rito de ordenación.

SUEANN HOWELL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

(De izquierda a derecha) El abad benedictino Placid Solari ora por el padre Wasswa y el padre Julio Domínguez ora por el padre Sánchez durante la misa de ordenación.

(De izquierda a derecha) El padre Wasswa, el obispo Jugis y el padre Sánchez consagran la Eucaristía durante la Misa de ordenación.

JAMES SARKIS | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

El padre Wasswa promete su fidelidad al obispo Jugis y sus sucesores durante el rito de ordenación. El padre Sánchez imparte su primera bendición a sus padres, Ignacio Sánchez Yañez y María García Pérez.

SUEANN HOWELL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

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catholicnewsherald.com | July 2, 2021 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Hermana Joan Pearson, SSJ

Servicio y pasión

A

cabo de tener una maravillosa “semana de gracia”. Fue la semana del Totus Tuus en la parroquia Sagrado Corazón en Salisbury. No, yo no formaba parte de la actividad. Mi vida fue agraciada en esta semana especial por accidente. ¿No es así como Dios nos sorprende a menudo con sus gracias?

A último momento, el sábado por la mañana, los planes de alojamiento para el equipo de misión se vinieron abajo. Vivo en un convento sencillo y limpio, con espacio de sobra, así que tuve la suerte de poder alojar a las chicas del equipo Totus Tuus.

Al igual que Jesús envió a los discípulos en parejas para la misión, los equipos de Totus Tuus están compuestos por dos chicos y dos chicas. Desafortunadamente, este equipo de chicos acababa de perder a su segundo miembro, por lo que el equipo de tres miembros llegó a la parroquia Sagrado Corazón con sólo una pequeña maleta cada uno y con los corazones y los espíritus abiertos a la misión de centrarse en los Misterios del Santo Rosario y proclamar la Buena Nueva sobre Jesús a los niños y jóvenes.

Vivían el mensaje de “Totus Tuus” (“Todo tuyo”) con todo su corazón, energía y pasión.

La mayoría de los jóvenes, después de graduarse de la escuela secundaria o en las vacaciones universitarias, pasan el verano en casa, en la playa, viajando, o ganando dinero con un trabajo de verano. Estos tres jóvenes adultos contemplaban las mismas opciones de verano, pero eligieron dedicarlo a ir a donde les enviaran: en misión.

Llevaron muy poco consigo. Sí, recibieron preparación para la formación Totus Tuus en la producción de parodias teatrales, la presentación de un tema, juegos de grupo para niños y adolescentes, canciones y el rezo del Oficio Divino.

Pero la invitación de Dios a la misión y su deseo de responder a su llamado fue lo que les impulsó a hacer todo esto.

Esta semana no fue todo “bocadillos y globos de agua” para ellos.

Todos los días salían del convento a las 7:30 de la mañana para ir a la iglesia a hacer la oración de la mañana. Trabajaron con los niños pequeños desde las 9 hasta las 2:30 de la tarde. Volvían al convento para un breve descanso a media tarde y luego regresaban a la iglesia para su oración privada y la Hora Santa.

Totus Tuus está diseñado de manera que se pide a diferentes familias de la parroquia que proporcionen la comida para el equipo de misión. Después de la cena, volvían a la parroquia y dirigían el programa para alumnos de secundaria y adolescentes de 7 a 9 de la noche.

A última hora de la tarde, cuando todo el trabajo del día estaba hecho, volvían al convento, exhaustos y desordenados y a veces magullados (por los juegos), y compartían sus aventuras misioneras conmigo. ¡Qué momento tan lleno de gracia para mí!

A menudo, después de los fines de semana de retiro o de las grandes misiones parroquiales, oigo a la gente decir: “qué maravilloso habría sido vivir en la época de Jesús y escucharle”, y “si hubiera podido ser uno de los primeros discípulos, mi fe sería mucho más fuerte”.

Soy una religiosa vieja y feliz, y he dicho a veces estas mismas palabras en mi vida ministerial. Creo que muchos de nosotros desearíamos haber “captado el espíritu” de la misión de Jesús y de los primeros discípulos, de la que tan a menudo leemos relatos en el Nuevo Testamento.

Esta fue mi gran gracia: ¡me sentí como un espectador en los Hechos de los Apóstoles! Cada noche, estos maravillosos y generosos jóvenes discípulos me contaban sus grandes alegrías al trabajar con los niños durante el día, los retos de hacer llegar los mensajes a los adolescentes por la noche y su felicidad al estar con las familias en las cenas que compartían con los diferentes feligreses. Estaban asombrados de ser aceptados, atendidos y acogidos en la parroquia y en las casas de la gente sólo porque estaban en la misión.

Su presencia en mi vida esta semana me ha cambiado. Y estoy renovada, ¡la pasión por el Reino es contagiosa! Y doy gracias a Dios por esta “experiencia de verano” feliz y llena de gracia.

Tómate un tiempo para pensar en tu propia experiencia de gracia del verano. Si quieres compartir tu historia conmigo, envíame un correo electrónico a jwpearson@rcdoc.org LA HERMANA JUANA PEARSON es coordinadora del Ministerio Hispano del Vicariato de Salisbury.

(Arriba) El Padre Leo Tiburcio, a la derecha, reemplazará como párroco al Padre Gregorio Gay, quien ha sido trasladado por su orden a la República de Panamá. Foto cortesía de Mishelle Anaya.

(Izquierda) Los fieles y servidores de la parroquia Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe se despidieron de su párroco. Hombres y mujeres derramaron lágrimas en la emotiva ceremonia de reconocimiento al servicio del Padre Gregorio.

CÉSAR HURTADO | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Con Misa, servidores dieron emotiva despedida al Padre Gregorio CÉSAR HURTADO REPORTERO

CHARLOTTE — Con una emotiva Misa y compartir, la comunidad de servidores y voluntarios de diversos programas y ministerios de la parroquia Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe en Charlotte dio la despedida a su párroco, Padre Gregorio Gay, quien próximamente dejará Charlotte para dirigirse a Panamá, donde le espera una nueva asignación de la orden Vicentina a la que pertenece.

El homenaje al pastor nacido en Estados Unidos de gran corazón hispano, tuvo lugar el pasado sábado 26 de junio a las seis de la tarde en la parroquia de la calle Tuckaseegee, al oeste de Charlotte.

Durante su homilía, el Padre Gregorio, aclaró que no se va porque quiere. “Voy a ser claro, yo he pedido ir a una nueva misión y no es porque no quiero a la parroquia Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe”, y que en sus años como superior de su congregación visitando diversos países del mundo, “nunca he visto una parroquia tan activa como esta parroquia”, que cuenta con una base firme que le permitirá continuar en su servicio hacia los demás.

“Voy a una situación donde la necesidad es grande por la falta de sacerdotes”, señaló, “para responder desde nuestro carisma vicentino”. Inicialmente estaba destinado a Alaska, pero luego, al ver que la urgencia era mayor en Panamá, donde había trabajado 21 años atrás, creyó conveniente solicitar su traslado a esa región.

“Necesidad aquí hay, sin duda. Pero con la base que tenemos, entre los llamados a servir y quienes desean servir más, junto con los sacerdotes, se puede responder con generosidad. Y Dios va a bendecir esto siempre”, añadió.

Al término de la Misa, al dejar momentáneamente el templo, el P. Gregorio recibió una cerrada y vibrante ovación de los presentes.

A su regreso al salón, la comunidad lo invitó a ver un video en el que muchos feligreses y servidores le agradecían por sus servicios en estos pocos más de cinco años en los que sirvió como párroco. “Es una persona humilde y sencilla, que siempre está ayudando a la comunidad”, “la luz de Cristo se refleja en él”, “con su fe y sus acciones nos enseñó a amar como Jesús”, se dijo en algunos testimonios mostrados.

Agradeciéndole por el servicio y la confianza depositada en los servidores, le desearon lo mejor para su próxima misión asignada, expresaron su deseo de

recibir sus oraciones por ellos, y le manifestaron que siempre tendrá un lugar especial en sus corazones y será bienvenido “en esta su casa” con mucho cariño y amor.

“Yo se que cuando hacemos algo con el corazón tocamos corazones. Y yo se que en su siguiente proyecto usted va a tocar muchos corazones, porque usted ama servir y eso es digno de admirar. Yo se que usted va a seguir ayudando al más necesitado, al pobre.

Agradezco mucho su humildad, la manera como se expresa con nosotros, su disponibilidad para conversar cuando lo necesitamos”, expresó otra persona.

“Tuve un momento muy difícil en mi vida”, dijo una mujer no identificada en el video, “y a donde corrí inmediatamente fue aquí, a la parroquia. Y lo encontré a usted. Y me dió las palabras exactas que necesitaba en mi vida. ¡Gracias!”.

Al término, una comisión de servidores se acercó al párroco para entregarle una placa conmemorativa que decía: “Padre Gregorio, gracias porque el sentido de tu sacerdocio es seguir a Jesucristo, evangelizador de los pobres”.

El Padre Leo Tiburcio, bromeando, le dijo que “desde que anunciaste que te ibas, he empezado a escuchar que te llamaban ‘el rompecorazones’ porque has puesto a llorar a muchas mujeres. ¡Y a muchos hombres también!”.

En una carta publicada en el último boletín parroquial, el Padre Gregorio resumió las obras realizadas durante su gestión y explicó a la comunidad sobre las inversiones y proyectos a futuro.

En el documento, se explica que, tras la compra de una propiedad de 13 hectáreas aledaña al terreno que ocupan actualmente, se espera añadir un “cry room” en lo que hoy es la capilla. En una segunda fase, se proyecta construir dos salones aledaños al salón Monseñor Romero. Posteriormente en la fase tres el proyecto contempla la construcción de un salón multiuso en las áreas verdes, por lo que el actual salón se convertiría en templo, colocando bancas de iglesia.

La última Misa que el Padre Gregorio celebrará será el domingo 4 de julio. El martes 6 de julio el Padre Leo Tiburcio será instalado por el Obispo Peter Jugis como nuevo pastor de la parroquia Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe.

Más online En www.facebook.com/Español: Vea la homilía del Padre Gregorio en su despedida.

July 2, 2021 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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Llaman a encuentro de catequistas en octubre CÉSAR HURTADO REPORTERO

Los campamentos vocacionales de verano Quo Vadis Days y Duc In Altum se llevaron a cabo en el campus de Belmont Abbey College durante dos semanas de junio.

Aproximadamente 150 hombres y mujeres jóvenes, entre 15 y 19 años, asistieron a los retiros de una semana de duración.

Integrantes del clero y religiosos visitaron a los jóvenes y compartieron con ellos información e ideas sobre sus vocaciones en la Iglesia.

PHOTOS PROPORCIONADAS POR EL SEMINARIO UNIVERSITARIO SAN JOSÉ Y LA COMUNIDAD DE LAS HIJAS DE LA VIRGEN MADRE

Campamentos vocacionales ofrecieron a los jóvenes un tiempo para explorar la voluntad de Dios en sus vidas SUEANN HOWELL REPORTERA SENIOR

BELMONT — Después de una pausa de un año causada por la pandemia de COVID-19, los campamentos vocacionales de verano de la Diócesis de Charlotte para jóvenes, hombres y mujeres, se reanudaron en junio. Ambos se completaron rápidamente con cerca de 150 participantes ansiosos por profundizar su relación con Cristo.

Aproximadamente 67 hombres jóvenes participaron en Quo Vadis Days, del 14 al 18 de junio, realizado en Belmont Abbey College.

El objetivo de Quo Vadis Days es desafiar a los jóvenes a preguntarse, “quo vadis”, es decir, “¿a dónde vas?” a la vez que les proporciona herramientas y oportunidad para discernir la voluntad de Dios para sus vidas.

Sacerdotes y seminaristas de la diócesis interactuaron con los jóvenes durante el campamento, que contó con charlas del clero, seminaristas y otras personas sobre las vocaciones al sacerdocio, matrimonio y paternidad.

Los jóvenes visitaron el Seminario Universitario San José ubicado en Mount Holly, no lejos de Belmont Abbey College.

También se trasladaron a la Iglesia San Marcos en Huntersville para asistir a una Misa solemne y disfrutaron de una comida al aire libre patrocinada por los Caballeros de Colón.

“Quo Vadis Days le da a los jóvenes de nuestra diócesis la oportunidad de tomar un descanso en sus rutinas ordinarias para hacerle a Nuestro Señor esa pregunta tan importante: ‘¿Qué quieres que haga con mi vida?’”, dijo el Padre Brian Becker, promotor

diocesano de vocaciones.

Además de pasar mucho tiempo en Misa, oración y los conversatorios, los participantes también se divirtieron en un torneo de fútbol denominado Copa Quo Vadis.

“Las vocaciones a la vida religiosa y al sacerdocio también implican fraternidad y diversión”, dijo el padre Becker. “Queremos que tengan una gran experiencia, no solo de la bondad de la oración y la liturgia de la Iglesia, sino también en la formación de vínculos con sus hermanos”.

Coordinado por las Hijas de la Virgen Madre, el campamento vocacional Duc In Altum, realizado del 21 al 25 de junio, se llenó este año con 60 participantes. Veinte más tuvieron la opción de participar en las charlas de manera virtual a través de videoconferencias.

Duc In Altum, que en latín significa “En lo profundo”, está diseñado para alentar a las mujeres jóvenes a explorar la voluntad de Dios en sus vidas. Las participantes pasan la semana en oración, asistiendo a Misa y la Adoración Eucarística, participando en discusiones y conferencias grupales, jugando, cantando y más.

Este año las participantes escucharon sobre la belleza de la vida consagrada de las religiosas profesas con los Servidoras; la Comunidad de San Juan; las Hijas de San Pablo; las Dominicas y las Misioneras de la Caridad.

Marie Bellet, esposa, madre y compositora nacida en Nashville, también dio testimonio de la belleza de la maternidad católica y ofreció un concierto. Adicionalmente, laicas católicas de todas las edades dieron su testimonio del llamado a la santidad en todos los estados.

HICKORY — Sin revelar todos los detalles, el Padre Julio Domínguez, director del Ministerio Hispano de la Diócesis de Charlotte, anunció la realización de un Encuentro Diocesano de Catequistas el próximo 16 de octubre en Hickory Metro Convention Center, 1960 13th Ave Dr SE #5186, Hickory, NC 28602.

La jornada iniciará probablemente a las 8 de la mañana, con una Misa y se extenderá a lo largo del día.

“Quiero invitar a todos los que se llaman catequistas. No nada más a los que enseñan la formación de fe en la catequesis, sino a todos los que enseñan de alguna otra manera. Es un amplio llamado, una convocatoria a participar a todos”, dijo el Padre Domínguez.

Los organizadores esperan una asistencia mayoritaria de la comunidad hispana, por lo que pondrá a disposición un salón con capacidad para 500 o 600 personas. En anteriores oportunidades se registraron asistencias promedio de 300 personas, pero debido a que estamos saliendo de una pandemia que nos ha alejado de las actividades de la Iglesia por más de un año, se cree que habrá un gran deseo de asistir y retomar el contacto entre hermanos.

SESIONES EN ESPAÑOL

Según informó el P. Domínguez, el temario en español de este año se basará en tres puntos: el papel de los grupos apostólicos en la evangelización, la formación en la fe que ofrece la diócesis y la oficina del ministerio hispano, y la ideología de género.

“Vamos a hablar de esos tres temas que interesaban a todos. Todos necesitamos la misma formación, por eso vamos a estar juntos. Además, si alguno de los catequistas habla mejor el inglés y desea escuchar o participar de otras charlas en ese idioma podrá hacerlo. Es libre”, dijo.

Respecto al papel de los grupos apostólicos, el expositor, P. Domínguez, dijo que buscará promover el entendimiento que, aunque tenemos diferente misión y carisma, todos somos uno en la Iglesia, todos trabajamos para el mismo Dios y todos estamos anunciando la Buena Nueva.

Por ello, pidió la participación de los miembros y líderes de los grupos apostólicos. “Todos serán bienvenidos, el encuentro no será cerrado para un grupo de líderes”, destacó.

En cuanto a la formación que ofrece la diócesis, y particularmente el ministerio hispano, los expositores serán la Hermana Juana Pearson, coordinadora del Ministerio Hispano del Vicariato de Salisbury, y Eduardo Bernal, coordinador del Ministerio Hispano del Vicariato de Charlotte.

Ambos conocen perfectamente los cursos que se encuentran a disposición de la feligresía y que, lamentablemente, muchas veces se desconoce de su existencia y disponibilidad.

El tema de Ideología de Género estará a cargo de Alicia Lisondo, proveniente de Atlanta, Georgia, quien

abordará los retos, la preparación para los padres y cómo conversar sobre este tema con los niños y jóvenes desde la perspectiva de la Iglesia.

FORMACIÓN CONTINUA

El P. Domínguez destacó la importancia de la formación continua y permanente para los catequistas.

“Si bien conocemos algunos aspectos de nuestra fe, hay siempre algunas zonas oscuras que desconocemos y se relacionan con la enseñanza que brindamos. Inclusive a nosotros, como sacerdotes, cada año nos ponen en formación continua y se nos van mostrando otras cosas. Por ello, la diócesis quiere hacer lo mismo con los laicos, para que tengan la oportunidad de abrir sus ojos y ampliar o mejorar su fe y servicio”.

También resaltó la importancia de tomar en cuenta a quien recibirá el mensaje evangelizador. “El Santo Padre ha dicho que no solo se trata de enseñar algo que uno sabe, sino de tener primero en cuenta la persona a la que nos dirigimos. El Papa ha advertido que no se trata de solo una estructura que tenemos que cumplir, sino de una persona a la que queremos transmitir la Buena Nueva. Y eso cambia el panorama totalmente, porque se tiene que tener en cuenta el carácter personal de cada individuo y el gran amor que uno tiene como cristiano de ir y enseñar a todas las naciones”.

El P. Domínguez hizo notar que, “muchas veces en las parroquias todo se vuelve como muy estructurado.

Tenemos todo lo que necesitamos para enseñar, pero se nos olvida la parte humana. Si no estás registrado en la parroquia, por ejemplo, no puedes participar. Si esto, si lo otro. Entonces se vuelve una estructura y se deja de lado la importancia de la persona humana”.

PRÓXIMO ANUNCIO

Pronto se publicarán los anuncios del encuentro de catequistas en todas las parroquias, redes sociales y los boletines parroquiales. “Esto es un adelanto, todavía no están abiertas las inscripciones, pero queremos que la gente se prepare y separe el día con anticipación”, dijo el P. Domínguez.

El costo de la participación en el encuentro regularmente varía entre 25 a 30 dólares, monto que cubre los costos de organización, alquiler de local y almuerzo de los participantes.

“Me gustaría que todos hagan el esfuerzo de participar porque me interesa mucho que nos conozcamos entre los catequistas de las diferentes parroquias, que veamos la riqueza que hay también en otras parroquias.

Ahí es cuando se crece muchísimo porque te encuentras con gente de otras partes, compartes experiencias, aprendes y te llevas ideas para aplicar en tu parroquia”.

“Nos vamos a juntar, a trabajar como equipo bajo la dirección de nuestro obispo, aplicando sus directivas, las prioridades que nos ha hecho saber.

Parece mentira pero, al entender todo el panorama completo, eso nos hace crecer, no como parroquias aisladas, sino como una diócesis integral y bien activa en la evangelización”, finalizó.

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iiiMonth xx, xxxx | catholicnewsherald.com

FROM TH

‘The grace of the saving passion, death and resurrection of Jesus is to be communicated to the faithful through your priestly ministry.’ — Bishop Peter Jugis

Bishop Peter Jugis (center) kneels during the Litany of Supplication as the Litany of the Saints is chanted during the rite of ordination of Father Juan Miguel Sanchez and Father Joseph Wasswa. The two were ordained to the priesthood June 19 during a two-hour Mass at St. Mark Church in Huntersville.

PHOTOS BY SUEANN HOWELL, AMY BURGER AND JAMES SARKIS

One faith, one diverse family united in Christ Sanchez and Wasswa ordained to the priesthood SUEANN HOWELL AND KIMBERLY BENDER CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

HUNTERSVILLE — Unity amid diversity in the Diocese of Charlotte is on full display as two men originally from Mexico and Uganda begin lives as its newest priests.

Bishop Peter Jugis, himself a native of Charlotte, ordained Father Juan Miguel Sanchez and Father Joseph Wasswa in a joyful Mass June 19. The two relative newcomers to western North Carolina join the ranks of 154 priests – more than a third of whom are men of color – in the diocese, which encompasses more than 515,000 Catholics.

The newly ordained priests expressed deep gratitude to those who helped them reach this most sacred of moments, as Father Sanchez joins Charlotte’s St. Matthew Church to serve as parochial vicar and Father Wasswa assumes the same position at Our Lady of Grace Church in Greensboro.

“I will always be grateful to all the people who made my priesthood possible,” Father Sanchez told the Catholic News Herald. “I am looking forward to serving in the Diocese of Charlotte and to grow together in the love of God and neighbor.”

Growing up in a different culture, Father Wasswa said, broadened his outlook and made him appreciate the universality of the Catholic faith – perspectives that will

More online At www.catholicnewsherald.com: See video highlights, Bishop Jugis’ complete homily, and lots more photos from the June 19 ordination Mass help him in his ministry here.

“I can sort out commonalities and differences, then try to trace that one thing that unites us – our faith,” he said, “There are things in the faith that apply to all cultures.

This is one family, no matter where we are.”

With most pandemic restrictions now lifted, St. Mark Church in Huntersville was filled to capacity June 19 with families, friends, clergy and religious attending the two-hour ordination Mass. Attendees included Father Sanchez’s parents and 13 of his 14 siblings from Mexico.

Close friends from Father Wasswa’s adopted parish in Salisbury came to offer their support since his family was unable to travel from Uganda.

At the start of the Mass, both men were presented for ordination by Father Christopher Gober, diocesan vocations director: “Most Reverend Father, Holy Mother Church asks you to ordain these, our brothers, to the responsibility of the priesthood.”

The congregation erupted in loud applause when Bishop Jugis formally accepted them for the order of the

priesthood.

Both men had a long, circuitous journey to bring them to this moment. Father Sanchez’s earliest years in Mexico were spent on a small-town farm before moving with his parents and siblings to the city of Guadalajara. He came to the United States at 20 and went to work in construction with his older brothers. Despite his lack of a high school diploma, he was encouraged by Father Julio Dominguez to pursue his studies. He earned his high school equivalency diploma before entering formation at the Pontifical College Josephinum in Ohio. He then joined the few diocesan seminarians selected to study theology at the Pontifical North American College in Rome.

Father Wasswa, one of eight children, came to North Carolina in 2015 to explore a religious vocation to the Benedictine order. He entered the novitiate at Belmont Abbey, but during his time there he discerned a different path as a diocesan priest. He said he simply fell in love with the diocese and its people, and decided to continue his studies for the priesthood here rather than in Uganda.

He had already studied for a time at Katigongo National Major Seminary in Masaka, Uganda, before coming to the U.S., so in 2016 he went on to complete his formation at the CHRIST, SEE PAGE 13

HE COVER

Month xx, xxxx | catholicnewsherald.comiii

13

CHRIST FROM PAGE 12

(Above, clockwise) Bishop Jugis invokes the Holy Spirit as he prays over Father Sanchez and Father Wasswa during the ordination rite. The two men lay prostrate at the base of the steps of the sanctuary during the ordination Mass at St. Mark Church in Huntersville.

(Below) Each man approaches Bishop Jugis to have their hands anointed with sacred chrism and wrapped with a cloth called a maniturgia.

Pontifical College Josephinum.

In his homily at their ordination, Bishop Jugis reflected on the two men answering the call to become priests.

“Dear brothers, Deacon Juan Miguel Sanchez and Deacon Joseph Wasswa, the Lord has called you: ‘Come follow me’ – and you have followed that call by prayerfully and conscientiously preparing yourselves through the years of formation. We have chosen you today for the sacred order of the priesthood.”

“The Lord draws near to us today to consecrate these two men with the grace of the priesthood. They are conformed to Jesus Christ, the High Priest, through the action of the Holy Spirit, and become true priests of the new covenant of salvation,” he said.

The bishop told them: “The grace of the saving passion, death and resurrection of Jesus is to be communicated to the faithful through your priestly ministry.”

He continued, “Your whole being is anointed by the Holy Spirit through this sacrament, with the indelible spiritual character configuring you to Christ the High Priest. What an anointing you receive as Christ’s priests!”

Bishop Jugis also entreated the new priests to promote unity and peace in their ministry, following Jesus the Good Shepherd as their model.

“St. Paul writes, strive to preserve the unity of the spirit through the bond of peace. One body and one Spirit, as you are also called to the one hope of your call: one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”

After the homily, Bishop Jugis asked the men a series of questions to express their willingness to be ordained priests and fulfill the responsibilities that come with ministry.

Then, one at a time, the men approached the bishop, placing their hands in his to signify obedience to him and to the Church.

The Litany of Supplication followed, during which the men lay prostrate before the altar as Bishop Jugis and everyone gathered at the Mass knelt in prayer and the Litany of the Saints was chanted.

Then they arose and approached the bishop, who laid his hands on their heads.

During this most solemn moment of the ordination rite, Bishop Jugis prayed silently over them for the Holy Spirit to descend upon them.

The diversity of the universal Church was evident as dozens of priests of the diocese – some originally from Africa, Asia, India, and Central and South America – then took their turn invoking the Holy Spirit and laying hands on the two men.

During the vesting portion of the ordination rite, the men were vested by people who played meaningful roles in their journey to the priesthood. Father Sanchez was vested by Father Dominguez, his former pastor and now vicar of Hispanic Ministry for the diocese. Father Wasswa was vested by Benedictine Abbot Placid Solari of Belmont Abbey, who guided him in discerning his priestly vocation.

During Communion each of the newly ordained priests was able to offer the Eucharist, which they consecrated along with Bishop Jugis and the other priests present, to their friends and loved ones.

“I am very grateful for the wonderful support and prayers I have received from the people of this diocese throughout my seminary formation,” Father Wasswa said.

“I look forward to serving the people of this diocese faithfully and to help them on our way to heaven.”

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catholicnewsherald.com | July 2, 2021 FROM THE COVER

Dozens of priests take their turn praying over Father Sanchez and Father Wasswa during the ordination rite.

PHOTOS BY SUEANN HOWELL, AMY BURGER AND JAMES SARKIS

(Above and right, clockwise) Father Wasswa, Bishop Jugis and Father Sanchez consecrate the Eucharist.

Father Julio Dominguez congratulates Father Sanchez after vesting him. Father Alfonso Gamez gives the sign of peace to Father Wasswa. Priests pray over both men during the Mass.

(Right) Father Wasswa prays as a priest lays hands on him during the ordination rite.

July 2, 2021 | catholicnewsherald.com FROM THE COVERI

15

First Masses

Newly ordained Father Joseph Wasswa offered a Mass of Thanksgiving June 20 at his home parish, Sacred Heart Church in Salisbury. Father John Eckert, pastor, served as homilist. Pictured with Father Wasswa are (from left): Father Britt Taylor, Father Jonathan Howell (from the Diocese of Birmingham, Ala.), Father Casey Coleman, Deacon Darren Balkey, Deacon Aaron Huber, Father Lucas Rossi, Father John Eckert and Deacon James Mazur.

PHOTOS BY SUEANN HOWELL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

(Top) Distributing Holy Communion and imparting first blessings is a cherished moment for the newly ordained priests. Father Wasswa blesses Bishop Jugis.

(Above) Father Sanchez gives a blessing to his father and mother.

(Right) Father Sanchez blesses Bishop Jugis.

Father Juan Miguel Sanchez (center) elevates the Eucharist at a Mass of Thanksgiving June 20 at St. Matthew Church in Charlotte. Diocesan clergy present included Father Benjamin Roberts, Father Julio Dominguez, Father John Allen, Father Jacob Mlakar, Deacon Darren Balkey, Deacon Aaron Huber and Father Alfonso Gamez.

PHOTOS BY TRAVIS BURTON | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

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catholicnewsherald.com | July 2, 2021 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Kateri Tekakwitha: la primera santa nativa norteamericana

Se capacitan para salvar vidas

Cada 14 de julio la Iglesia de Estados Unidos celebra a Santa Kateri Tekakwitha, la primera Santa nativa norteamericana, considerada patrona de la naturaleza y de la ecología junto a San Francisco de Asís.

Kateri nació en Auriesville, Nueva York, en 1656. Su madre era una mujer cristiana miembro de la tribu algonquina, que había sido capturada por los iroques y liberada por quien sería el padre de Tekakwitha, un jefe tribal Mohicano.

Cuando tenía sólo cuatros años murieron sus padres y su hermano por la epidemia de viruela. A causa de esta misma enfermedad ella quedó con el rostro desfigurado, la vista seriamente dañada y, ante la muerte de toda su familia, a cargo de un tío que era jefe de un clan Mohicano.

Las cicatrices fueron una fuente de humillación en su juventud, por lo que se la veía comúnmente usando una manta para ocultar su rostro.

A sus 11 años, Kateri conoció la fe cristiana cuando a su pueblo llegaron misioneros jesuitas, que acompañaban a los diputados mohicanos para firmar la paz con los franceses.

Cuando sus padres adoptivos le propusieron un pretendiente, ella se negó a aceptar la propuesta. Ellos la castigaron dándole más trabajo que hacer, pero ella no se rindió. En cambio, permaneció callada y diligente.

Finalmente, se vieron obligados a ceder y aceptar que ella no tenía interés en casarse.

Si bien aceptó la fe rápidamente, la joven pidió bautizarse recién a los 20 años. Luego hizo la Primera Comunión en un día de Navidad y realizó el voto de castidad, comprometiéndose a casarse solo con Jesucristo. Su decisión fue muy impopular entre los miembros de su comunidad. Algunos de sus vecinos iniciaron rumores de brujería, y para evitar la persecución viajó a una comunidad cristiana nativa al sur de Montreal, Canadá.

Según la leyenda, Kateri era muy devota y para mortificarse ponía espinas en su cama. A menudo oraba por la conversión de sus hermanos mohicanos.

Según los misioneros jesuitas que servían a la comunidad donde vivía Kateri, a menudo ayunaba y cuando comía, arruinaba su comida para disminuir su sabor.

Kateri era muy devota y era conocida por su inquebrantable devoción al Bendito Sacramento. Es posible que sus prácticas de automortificación y negación no hayan ayudado a su salud, por lo que cayó gravemente enferma.

Lamentablemente, solo pocos años después de su conversión al catolicismo, partió a la Casa del Padre el 17 de abril de 1680, en Semana Santa de aquel año, y con tan solo 24 años. Sus últimas palabras fueron: “¡Jesús, te amo!”

A su muerte, el pueblo desarrolló inmediatamente una gran devoción por ella, y muchos peregrinos acudían a visitar su tumba, en Caughnawaga, condado Montgomery, New York.

Cuenta la tradición que las cicatrices que la santa tenía en el rostro se desvanecieron después que falleciera y que se sanaron muchos enfermos que fueron al funeral.

En 1884, el Padre Clarence Walworth, entonces pastor de la Iglesia Católica Santa María en Albany, capital del estado de Nueva York, mandó erigir un monumento junto a su sepultura y llegó a ser conocida como “El Lirio de los Mohicanos”.

Santa Kateri fue beatificada por San Juan Pablo II, en 1980 y canonizada por el Sumo Pontífice Emérito Benedicto XVI, en octubre de 2012. Su fiesta en el resto del mundo es cada 17 de abril.

Su nombre, Kateri, es la forma Mohawk de Catalina, que tomó de Santa Catalina de Siena.

— Condensado de ACIPRENSA

CHARLOTTE — Gracias a la colaboración de diferentes entidades de salud, decenas de líderes de la pastoral hispana de la Diócesis de Charlotte se capacitaron en técnicas de resucitación cardiopulmonar (CPR, por sus siglas en inglés) y el uso de desfibrilador externo automático (AED, por sus siglas en inglés). Además, en dos casos particulares recibieron en calidad de donación AEDs para ser utilizados en sus parroquias.

En una jornada realizada en el Centro Pastoral de la Diócesis de Charlotte, representantes de dos parroquias, Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe en Charlotte y Nuestra Señora de la FOTO CORTESÍA FRAVELIN CUESTA Asunción en Charlotte, recibieron el Es importante que los feligreses de las parroquias se capaciten en entrenamiento y valiosos equipos de AED técnicas de resucitación cardipulmonar y el uso de defibriladores. que podrían salvar la vida de feligreses Las estadísticas muestran que en 2017 la enfermedad cardíaca fue la en caso de emergencia. segunda causa principal de muerte, después del cáncer, en el condado “Es una clara muestra de la fe puesta Mecklenburg y la principal causa de muerte a nivel nacional. en acción, con obras concretas”, dijo el Padre Hugo Medellín, vicario parroquial de la Iglesia Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, quien atendió personalmente a la MÁS ENTRENAMIENTO capacitación y agradeció la donación del equipo En otra sesión, Adamo Riasco, paramédico e “que ya se encuentra disponible e instalado en instructor certificado de la Asociación Americana nuestra parroquia”. del Corazón, capacitó a 13 personas, entre servidores, feligreses y miembros de la pastoral de la salud de AYUDA COMUNITARIA San John Neumann, en CPR y el uso del AED. Karina Runyan, representante de la oficina Fravelin Cuesta, representante de la pastoral de participación comunitaria de Novant Health de la salud del Vicariato de Charlotte, dijo que los y miembro de la Coalición Latina de Fe y Salud participantes aprendieron qué hacer en algunas -en la que participa activamente el Ministerio situaciones de emergencia, cómo dar los primeros Hispano del Vicariato de Charlotte- logró auxilios y a utilizar el equipo de AED que se conseguir que Joyce Bumgarner, coordinadora encuentra disponible en la parroquia. del Instituto Cardiovascular del Centro Médico “Creo que ninguno de nosotros está exento de Presbiteriano de Novant Health, se presentara encontrarse en una situación de emergencia en durante una reunión mensual de la Coalición algún momento de su vida, ya sea en la casa, el Latina de Fe y Salud para hablar sobre la trabajo o nuestras parroquias. Por eso es muy atención temprana del ataque al corazón. importante tener estos conocimientos y estar Durante esa reunión se revelaron cifras preparados para saber responder ante esas preocupantes sobre la enfermedad cardíaca. En 2017 situaciones, especialmente porque los primeros fue la segunda causa principal de muerte después minutos pueden hacer la diferencia entre la vida del cáncer en el condado Mecklenburg y la principal y la muerte”, señaló. causa de muerte a nivel nacional. Para el año 2035 Cuesta detalló que anteriormente ya se se prevé que 2 de casi cada 15 personas en Estados había contado con la colaboración de Adamo Unidos muera de un paro cardíaco repentino.

Riasco para certificar en CPR a servidores de Tras su exposición, Bumgarner buscó los diferentes parroquias de la diócesis. “La clase es fondos necesarios para donar 10 AEDs, con un en español y al término de la misma, después de costo aproximado de 1.200 dólares por unidad, a demostrar lo que hemos aprendido, recibimos la iglesias de diferentes denominaciones en la región certificación de CPR que es válida por dos años”, de Charlotte. Como resultado de este acuerdo, añadió. dos parroquias católicas en Charlotte recibieron Debido al éxito del programa, se espera que entrenamiento y el importante donativo. próximamente se realicen más jornadas de “La vida y la salud física son bienes preciosos capacitación en español para seguir formando a confiados por Dios. Debemos cuidar de los servidores y feligreses hispanos. ellos racionalmente teniendo en cuenta las necesidades de los demás y el bien común”, se afirma en el numeral 2288 del Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica, que más adelante añade que “el Si alguna de las parroquias del vicariato se cuidado de la salud de los ciudadanos requiere la encuentra interesada en desarrollar el programa, ayuda de la sociedad”. puede ponerse en contacto con la pastoral de la salud y Joyce Bumgarner, en una clara demostración solicitarla. Para mayores informes, envíe un mensaje de del apoyo fundamental de la sociedad al bienestar texto/whatsapp a Eduardo Bernal al 704-770-8342 comunitario, dijo que “dándonos la oportunidad o a Fravelin Cuesta al 704-726-6397. de educar a la comunidad sobre las técnicas

CÉSAR HURTADO REPORTERO

de CPR con el uso de nuestras manos y AED, también podemos enfocarnos en la atención temprana de un ataque cardíaco y llamar al 911”.

¿Le interesa el programa?

Lecturas Diarias 4-10 JULIO

Domingo: Ezequiel 2:2-5, 2 Corintios 12:710, Marcos 6:1-6; Lunes: Génesis 28:10-22a, Mateo 9:18-26; Martes: Génesis 32:23-33, Mateo 9:32-38; Miércoles: Génesis 41:55-57, 42:5-7a, 17-24a, Mateo 10:1-7; Jueves: Génesis 44:18-21, 23b-29, 45:1-5, Mateo 10:7-15; Viernes: Génesis 46:1-7, 28-30, Mateo 10:1623; Sábado: Génesis 49:29-32, 50:15-26a, Mateo 10:24-33

11-17 JULIO

Domingo: Amós 7:12-15, Efesios 1:3-14, Marcos 6:7-13; Lunes: Éxodo 1:8-14, 22, Mateo 10:34, 11:1; Martes: Éxodo 2:1-15a, Mateo 11:2024; Miércoles (Santa Kateri Tekakwitha): Éxodo 3:1-6, 9-12, Mateo 11:25-27; Jueves (San Buenaventura): Éxodo 3:13-20, Mateo 11:2830; Viernes: Éxodo 11:10-12, 14, Mateo 12:1-8; Sábado: Éxodo 12:37-42, Mateo 12:14-21

18-24 JULIO

Domingo: Jeremías 23:1-6, Efesios 2:13-18, Marcos 6:30-34; Lunes: Éxodo 14:5-18, Mateo 12:38-42; Martes: Éxodo 14:21-15, Mateo 12:46-50; Miércoles: Éxodo 16:1-5, 9-15, Mateo 13:1-9; Jueves (Santa María Magdalena): Cantar de los cantares 3:1-4b, Juan 20:1-2, 11-18; Viernes: Éxodo 20:1-17, Mateo 13:18-23; Sábado: Éxodo 24:3-8, Mateo 13:24-30

‘San Buenaventura recibiendo el hábito de San Francisco’, óleo sobre lienzo de Francisco de Herrera, (Sevilla, 1590 - Madrid, 1654). Imagen cortesía del Museo del Prado, Madrid.

Mix

July 2, 2021 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

For the latest movie reviews: catholicnewsherald.com

hoping to defeat the arrogant bully (voice of Saverio Raimondo) who has long dominated the event. As the two lads try to keep the secret of their dual identity, the protagonist is pursued by his overprotective mom (voice of Maya Rudolph) and well-meaning but distracted dad (voice of Jim Gaffigan). While it does nothing to solve the perennial problem for real-life parents that obedient children rarely have adventures, director Enrico Casarosa’s animated fantasy is otherwise a winsome tale full of charm and Italian flair.

Too complicated for tots, who might also be frightened, it’s acceptable for all others. Characters in peril, a couple of rude gestures.

CNS: A-I (general patronage); MPAA: PG

In theaters

On TV

‘F9: The Fast Saga’

‘Luca’ The timid young sea monster of the title (voice of Jacob Tremblay), who lives off the coast of Liguria, discovers that he is transformed into a preteen boy when on dry land, befriends a more daring shapeshifter (voice of Jack Dylan Grazer) in the same situation and a strictly human local girl (voice of Emma Berman) and together the trio enters a triathlon,

His past comes back to haunt the retired leader (Vin Diesel) of a crew of street racers when his estranged brother (John Cena) turns out to be the muscle behind the effort of a dictator’s evil son (Thue Ersted Rasmussen) to obtain a high-tech weapon that will give the villain world domination. To foil the scheme, the speed demon reluctantly suspends his happy home life (with Michelle Rodriguez) and rallies his followers (most prominently Tyrese Gibson and Chris “Ludacris” Bridges). Since the protagonist’s sister (Jordana Brewster) faces a choice similar to his own, over-thetop action sequences are interspersed with debates about the proper balance between duty and domestic happiness. Non-denominational religious flourishes and an emphasis on the value of family offset occasionally intense showdowns and some unsavory vocabulary, making the film acceptable, on balance, for a broad swath of grown-ups. Much stylized, though sometimes harsh, violence, brief anatomical humor, numerous crude and crass terms.

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

n Saturday, July 3, 8 p.m. (EWTN) “Maria Goretti.” A beautiful Italian film on the life of St. Maria Goretti. Despite growing up in poverty, Maria devoted herself to Christ. She died protecting her virginity, becoming one of the Church’s youngest martyrs. n Sunday, July 4, 6 a.m. (EWTN) “Angelus with Pope Francis.” Pope Francis leads the world in the recitation of the Angelus, live from Rome. n Sunday, July 4, 6 p.m. (EWTN) “Messiah: Exodus – A People Set Apart.” In the story of Exodus, the Lord speaks to Moses in smoke and fire, rescues His people from 400 years of slavery in Egypt, and reveals Himself as

their king, one who will lead them to the promised land. n Monday, July 5, 11:30 a.m. (EWTN) “They Might be Saints – Sister Marie De Mandat-Grancey.” The fascinating story of Sister Marie de Mandat-Grancey.

Follow her extraordinary efforts to locate the house of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, as she travels to Ephesus, Turkey to bring this treasure to the Church. n Tuesday, July 6, 5:30 p.m. (EWTN) “Three Passionist Saints.” Young and old alike have come to know Jesus in a deep, intimate way through the example of Gemma Galgani, Maria Goretti and Gabriel Possenti, three Passionist saints who died at an early age. n Friday, July 9, 11:30 a.m. (EWTN) “St. Catherine of Siena.” An insightful overview of the life of St. Catherine of Siena and her importance in creating a more unified Church. n Saturday, July 10, 2 p.m. (EWTN) “St. Benedict of Nursia.” This EWTN docu-drama examines the spirituality of St. Benedict, founder of the monastic order the Benedictines, who left his wealth and the decadence of Rome behind to dedicate himself to a life of prayer. n Thursday, July 15, 5:30 p.m.

(EWTN) “Kateri: All for Christ.” Inspired by the courageous faith of Kateri Tekakwitha, Father de Lamberville details her incredible life and cause for sainthood when he is reunited with Father Frémin.

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catholicnewsherald.com | July 2, 2021 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Communion proposal highlights bishops’ meeting CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Eucharist was a major focus of the U.S. bishops’ June 16-18 virtual spring assembly.

On June 17, they heard a full presentation on a proposal to draft a document on the “meaning of the Eucharist in the life of the Church,” followed by a lengthy discussion and vote.

And by a wide margin, announced June 18, the bishops gave the green light for the drafting process to proceed.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Doctrine will draft the document and present it for discussion when the bishops reconvene in person in November. The action to move forward passed 168 to 55. There were six abstentions.

For more than two hours, 43 bishops expressed differing views about drafting such a document. Some stressed the document was necessary to provide clarity about the significance of the Eucharist, while others questioned its timing and if it could be perceived as fracturing the unity of a Church already faced with numerous challenges.

Although the bishops reached no consensus during the discussion, most of those who spoke during the comments’ session welcomed the idea of strengthening teaching about the Eucharist.

Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades of Fort WayneSouth Bend, Ind., chairman of the doctrine committee, presented a proposed outline to the bishops in a prerecorded message.

He said this was developed in light of the decline in Catholics’ belief in the Real Presence in the Eucharist as well as the long absences from regular Mass attendance, which may have led to people placing less significance on the Eucharist in their lives.

The Communion document also was a key point of discussion in the news conferences June 16 and 17. Bishop Rhoades June 17 stressed that creating national norms was never the intent behind a proposal to write a new statement on the Eucharist. He said it would be aimed at providing guidance for bishops.

“We have taught in years past about Catholics in political life, the importance of adherence to Church teaching in the document on worthiness to receive Holy Communion, back in 2006,” Bishop Rhoades said. “But with this new strategic plan that’s going to be focused on the Eucharist, this three-year plan, we have to teach this again, on different levels.”

The bishop was referring to a multi-year National Eucharistic Revival initiative that is part of the U.S. bishops’ 2021-2024 strategic plan. The revival has been in the planning stages for over a year.

This revival is meant to place added emphasis on the Eucharist at all levels of the Church in the United States beginning next summer and culminating in a largescale national event in 2024.

The initiative aims to “renew the Church by enkindling a living relationship with the

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Lord Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist,” said Auxiliary Bishop Andrew H. Cozzens of St. Paul and Minneapolis, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Evangelization and Catechesis. In a June 18 presentation to the bishops, he described it as a “movement of Catholics across the United States, healed, converted, formed and unified by an encounter with Jesus in the Eucharist – and sent out in mission.”

During their virtual assembly, the bishops also discussed their efforts on immigration, Native American/Alaskan Native ministry, catechesis and pastoral frameworks for youth and young people and marriage and family ministries.

The bishops also voted to approve three sets of translations from the International Committee on English in the Liturgy, or ICEL, on: the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church; additional intercessions and psalter concluding prayers for the Liturgy of the Hours; and the Order of Penance.

The Vatican Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments now needs to issue a “confirmatio” before the translations can be used.

Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone of San Francisco June 16 gave a presentation on the proposed “Pastoral Framework for Marriage and Family Life Ministry in the United States: Called to the Joy of Love.”

He is chairman of the bishops’ Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth, which drafted the document. The bishops approved it 212 to 13, with four abstentions.

They also were asked to authorize development of a new formal statement and comprehensive vision for Native American and Alaska Native ministry, which they approved 223 to 6.

In a 222-7 vote, the bishops also approved a new national pastoral framework on accompanying youths and young adults in the Church. Dallas Bishop Edward J. Burns, a member of the bishops’ Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth, introduced the proposal. The committee will develop it to be presented to the bishops for review at their November 2022 general assembly.

He said the pastoral framework would be formed in light of “Christus Vivit” (“Christ Lives”), Pope Francis’ 2019 reflections on the previous year’s Synod of Bishops on young people.

Bishop Frank J. Caggiano of Bridgeport, Conn., chairman of the bishops’ Subcommittee on the Catechism, spoke to the bishops about challenges his committee

faces in overseeing how catechetical works conform to the Catechism of the Catholic Church. To help with this, he said, he hopes to form a “catechetical institute” that would involve bishops, diocesan officials and the writers, editors and consultants of catechetical materials and would provide ongoing formation and mentoring.

Ahead of World Refugee Day June 20, the bishops were told that many U.S. worship sites – from chapels to cathedrals – seem to be unaware of refugee, immigrant, migrant and other “people on the move” Catholics near them. “There is a widespread lack of awareness of the presence of the communities

by Catholic worship sites,” said Bishop Joseph J. Tyson of Yakima, Wash., chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Subcommittee the Pastoral Care of Migrants, Refugees and Travelers June 18.

The subcommittee contracted the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate to conduct a survey of U.S. worship sites to collect data on the movement of Catholics throughout the country.

CARA found that the Archdioceses of Los Angeles, Miami, Seattle, Atlanta and Galveston-Houston are among those U.S. archdioceses with the greatest number of people passing through their territories.

Auxiliary Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville Washington, chairman of the bishops’ Committee on Migration, gave a brief presentation on a June 1-2 gathering of Catholic leaders on immigration.

Prelates from the U.S., Central America and Mexico, along with those in charge of various prominent Catholic organizations, met at Mundelein Seminary outside Chicago to talk about welcoming migrants, advocating for them and exploring the causes that force many to leave their home countries.

On the first day of the bishops’ virtual spring assembly, Archbishop Christophe Pierre, papal nuncio, and Los Angeles Archbishop José H. Gomez, USCCB president, gave addresses stressing the need for unity as the Church emerges from the pandemic. “At the heart of dialogue is the communication of one’s own personal life to others,” he said, adding the goal of such dialogue “should be unity and not merely doctrinal and juridical unity.”

Archbishop Gomez said the events of the past year will likely shape the vision of the Church “for years to come.” That’s why unity is important, he added. He also noted that unity doesn’t mean bishops will never disagree, because even the apostles disagreed, “but never about the truth of the Gospel.”

In a report to the bishops June 17, Suzanne Healy, chairwoman of the National Review Board, noted that although major steps have been taken to help achieve healing and reconciliation with survivors of clergy sexual abuse, much work remains ahead for the U.S. Catholic Church. She said transparency remains a key concern of the review board and thanked bishops and eparchs who have released lists of clergy with substantiated abuse allegations including those who are deceased and removed from ministry.

Learn more At www.usccb.org/meaning-eucharistlife-church: The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has published on its website a series of frequently asked questions and answers about the bishops’ vote to approve drafting a document on the Eucharist during their June 16-18 spring general assembly.

July 2, 2021 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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In Brief Catholic agency offers help after ‘heartbreaking’ condo collapse MIAMI BEACH, Fla. — Staff members with Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Miami were on location and developing a response strategy June 24 near the stunning wreckage of a partially collapsed beachfront high-rise apartment building. As of June 29, at least 16 people were dead and 147 people who lived in the 12-story building remained unaccounted for, according to local law enforcement officials.

Speaking by phone from the temporary reunification center for family, friends and displaced residents desperate for information about the collapsed Champlain Towers Condo in the beach town of Surfside, a senior director of community based services for Miami Catholic Charities said she arrived at the “ground zero” site the afternoon the collapse. “I have worked hurricanes, but nothing like this: It is just a look of sadness you see on everyone’s face.

It is heartbreaking,” said Jackie Carrion, who said her agency is making temporary Catholic Charities housing and material assistance available following the catastrophe.

House committee urged to include pro-life policies in bills WASHINGTON, D.C. — The chairmen of the U.S. bishops’ pro-life and international policy committees have urged the House Appropriations Committee and all members of

Congress “to protect taxpayers from having to pay for the evil of abortion, and to instead use our tax dollars for the common good and welfare of all.” In a joint statement issued late June 28, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City, Kan., and Bishop David J. Malloy of Rockford, Ill., addressed how proposed spending bills for the District of Columbia and several federal agencies and for U.S. foreign operations have eliminated three decades-old, bipartisan policies that would prevent taxpayer funds from being used to pay for abortions. Archbishop Naumann is chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities, and Bishop Malloy is chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on International Justice and Peace.

Calls for healing for Floyd family, community follow sentencing ST. PAUL, Minn. — Following Derek Chauvin’s June 25 sentencing for the murder of George Floyd, Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda of St. Paul and Minneapolis prayed it would “bring a measure of peace and healing” to Floyd’s family, his friends “and our community.” At the same time, he said in statement, he also prayed this will prompt everyone “to go deeper in our conversations about race, justice, violence and peace. Please join me in praying that the Lord will guide us in those conversations, no matter how difficult and uncomfortable they may be, while bringing consolation to the Floyd family, healing to our community and protection to all who work for peace,” Archbishop Hebda said.

Former Minneapolis police officer Chauvin, 45, who is white, was given 22 and a half years in prison after being convicted April 20 of seconddegree unintentional murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter in the May 25, 2020, death of Floyd, an African American, after Floyd was accused by a store clerk of trying to pass a counterfeit $20 bill.

DISCOVER THE CATHOLIC DIFFERENCE

During border visit, bishop speaks with VP about immigration WASHINGTON, D.C. — Bishop Mark J. Seitz of El Paso, Texas, asked Vice President Kamala Harris June 25 to engage with the faith community as partners on a path to bring relief and a compassionate solution to immigration issues in the Americas and to “hear the voices” of those turned away at the border. In the border town, where the bishop has in the past accompanied migrants seeking refuge at a nearby international bridge, the Church, along with other faith communities, has long had a front seat to the unfolding immigration drama and extended a helping hand. So, when Bishop Seitz addressed Harris, after she visited a U.S. port of entry where U.S. Border Patrol agents screen asylum-seekers, he spoke with years of experience behind him.

“Why is your visit today important? Borders are places where the drama of human life – its suffering and aspirations – unfolds and they put squarely before us a moral choice – to build bridges of encounter or walls of fear,” he told Harris when she met him as part of a gathering of local leaders of nonprofits and faith groups that help migrants.

Bishop hails one immigration policy, calls for end to another WASHINGTON, D.C. — The chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Migration June 24 hailed a Supreme Court decision dismissing a lawsuit challenging a Trumpera immigration policy that kept asylum-seekers in Mexico, while he urged the end of another policy that keeps migrants out of the U.S. The high court said the Migration Protection Protocols, or MPP policy, was no longer in dispute. The Biden administration did away with it earlier in June and had earlier asked for the dismissal of the suit. MPP, also known as the “Remain in Mexico” policy, forced asylum-seekers at the southern

border to stay on the other side of the border until it was time for applicants to have their cases adjudicated in U.S. immigration courts. The Biden administration formally ended the policy June 1, allowing applicants with open cases to enter the U.S. “We welcome the final resolution of this case.

At the same time, the court’s decision should not be seen as legal vindication of MPP, which remains contrary to our laws and morals,” Auxiliary Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville of Washington, chairman of the USCCB’s migration committee, said June 24.

Supreme Court rules in favor of Catholic agency in foster case WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a unanimous decision June 17, the Supreme Court said a Catholic social service agency should not have been excluded from Philadelphia’s foster care program because it did not accept same-sex couples as foster parents. Although the court said Philadelphia’s anti-discrimination laws put an unfair burden on Philadelphia’s Catholic Social Services, the justices did not issue a sweeping ruling on religious rights or overturn its previous decision involving religious liberty in Employment Division v. Smith.

Chief Justice John Roberts, who wrote the opinion in Fulton v. Philadelphia, said the service agency “seeks only an accommodation that will allow it to continue serving the children of Philadelphia in a manner consistent with its religious beliefs; it does not seek to impose those beliefs on anyone else.”

He said the city’s actions of excluding the agency burdened its “religious exercise by putting it to the choice of curtailing its mission or approving relationships inconsistent with its beliefs.” The case centered on Philadelphia’s 2018 exclusion of the foster program of Catholic Social Services of the Philadelphia Archdiocese because of the agency’s policy of not placing children with samesex couples or unmarried couples because these unions go against Church teaching on traditional marriage.

— Catholic News Service

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catholicnewsherald.com | July 2, 2021 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

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In Brief Pope, U.S. Secretary of State Blinken meet at Vatican VATICAN CITY — Climate change, migration and geopolitical hot spots were on the agenda as Pope Francis met with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken June 28. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said that during the 40-minute meeting, which “took place in a cordial climate,” the pope recalled his 2015 visit to the U.S. and expressed “his affection and concern for the people of the United States of America.” It was the pope’s second meeting with an official of the Biden Administration. In May, the pope met with John Kerry, President Joe Biden’s special envoy for climate. While the Vatican provided scarce detail of the meetings, U.S. Secretary of State spokesman Ned Price said that during his meeting with the pope, Blinken reiterated the “United States’ commitment to working closely with the Holy See to address global challenges and the needs of the world’s least fortunate and most vulnerable, including refugees and migrants. “The secretary thanked Pope Francis for his long-standing leadership on the need to care for the environment and tackle the climate crisis. The secretary and Pope Francis also discussed China as well as the humanitarian crises in Lebanon, Syria, the Tigray region of Ethiopia and Venezuela,” Price said. Pope Francis and Blinken’s discussion on the issue of human rights and religious freedom in China is a particular area of concern for the Vatican.

CNS | VATICAN MEDIA

Pope at pallium Mass: Freedom comes from welcoming Christ VATICAN CITY — Sts. Peter and Paul were great not just because of their zeal for the Gospel, but because they allowed Christ to enter their hearts and change their lives, Pope Francis said. “The Church looks to these two giants of faith and sees two apostles who set free the power of the Gospel in our world, but only because first they themselves had been set free by their encounter with Christ,” the pope said during his homily at Mass for the feast of Sts. Peter and Paul June 29.

The feast day celebration in St. Peter’s Basilica included the traditional blessing of the pallium, the woolen band that the heads of archdioceses wear around their shoulders over their Mass vestments. The pallium symbolizes an archbishop’s unity with the pope and his authority and responsibility to care for the flock the pope entrusted to him. The pope blessed the palliums after they were brought up from the crypt above the tomb of St. Peter. According to the Vatican, 34 archbishops from 18 countries who were named over the past 12 months were to receive the palliums, including: Canadian Archbishops Brian J. Dunn of Halifax-Yarmouth and Marcel Damphousse of Ottawa-Cornwall; Filipino Cardinal José Advincula of Manila and Irish Archbishop Dermot P. Farrell of Dublin. Pictured: Pope Francis and representatives of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople visit the tomb of St. Peter at the conclusion of Mass. The delegation from the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople was present at the Mass in keeping with a long tradition.

Please pray for the following priests who died during the month of July: Rev. Stephen R. Dowd, OSB – 1985 Rev. Raymond Geyer, OSB – 2009 Rev. Conrad Kimbrough – 2011 Rev. Bebe Lightner, OSB – 2002 Rev. Bertrand Pattison, OSB - 1992

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Pope: Healing Christian divisions can give hope to the world VATICAN CITY — Even as the formal CatholicOrthodox dialogue continues to deal with divisive theological issues, members of both churches should work together more closely on issues where they share a common point of view, Pope Francis said. “The witness of growing communion between us Christians will also be a sign of hope for many men and women, who will feel encouraged to promote a more universal fraternity and a reconciliation capable of healing past wrongs,” the pope said June 28 as he welcomed to the Vatican a delegation from the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople.

The Orthodox patriarch sends a delegation to the Vatican each year to participate in the celebration of the feast of Sts. Peter and Paul, the Vatican patrons, while the pope sends a delegation to Turkey each November for the feast of St. Andrew, the patriarchate’s patron feast.

As Metropolitan Emmanuel of Chalcedon, the Greek Orthodox metropolitan of France, entered the papal library for the audience, Pope Francis kissed his encolpion, his pectoral medallion, which

signifies his dignity as a bishop. Metropolitan Emmanuel led the delegation, which also included Metropolitan Iosif of Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Pope Francis told the delegation that Christians working together and promoting recognition that all people are brothers and sisters is “the only way to the dawn of a future of peace.”

Self-righteous continue to disturb Christian community, Pope Francis says VATICAN CITY — Those who proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ are humble and trust in God, they do not heap conditions upon others or promote themselves as the only “keepers of the truth,” Pope Francis said. The path of evangelization, the essential characteristics of an evangelist and the risks posed by the self-proclaimed righteous are illustrated in the Letter to the Galatians, the pope said June 23 as he announced the letter would be the topic of a new series of talks at his weekly general audience. Pope Francis said St. Paul’s Letter to the Galatians is important, “I would even say decisive, not only for getting to know the apostle better, but above all in considering some topics that he addresses in depth, showing the beauty of the Gospel.” The themes of “freedom, grace and the Christian way of life” in the Letter to the Galatians, he said, are “extremely topical since they touch on many aspects of the life of the Church in our days. It is a very relevant letter. It seems written for our times.”

Pope: Pandemic’s economic fallout must not stop generosity VATICAN CITY — International solidarity in funding the rebuilding of schools, hospitals and churches destroyed by war is important, Pope Francis said, but “we need to be concerned above all for the living stones who have been wounded and dispersed. From Georgia south through Iraq and Syria, then from the Holy Land through North Africa to the Tigray region of Ethiopia, the needs of Christian communities are pressing, Pope Francis said June 24 as he met with representatives of a Vatican coalition of funding agencies, known by its Italian acronym, ROACO. Coordinated by the Congregation for Eastern Churches, ROACO assists Eastern-rite Churches around the world as well as the Latin-rite Church in North Africa and the Middle East. The agencies include the U.S.-based Catholic Near East Welfare Association and Catholic Relief Services, as well as Aid to the Church in Need and Caritas Internationalis. Through the representatives, Pope Francis extended his “gratitude to all those who support and make possible your projects: ordinary members of the faithful, families, parishes and volunteers who understand what it means to be ‘brothers and sisters all’ and who devote a portion of their time and resources to assisting you in the services you provide. I have been told that the income from the 2020 collection for the Holy Land was only about half of that received in previous years,” he said.

— Catholic News Service

July 2, 2021 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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GRANTS FROM PAGE 5

since 2001 have made an impact on all 46 counties of the diocese and have helped improve the lives of thousands

of people,” said Jim Kelley, executive director of the foundation and diocesan director of development.

2021 Diocesan Foundation grant recipients Catholic Campus Ministry

$5,000

Evangelization program

Catholic Charities’ Charlotte Regional Office $5,000 “Welcome Home”

program to alleviate homelessness Catholic Charities’ Lenoir Office $5,000

Bilingual services and emergency financial aid to families in Alexander, Burke, Caldwell and Catawba counties

Catholic Charities’ Piedmont/Triad Office $4,000 Parish and community

charitable outreach for

Forsyth and surrounding counties Catholic Charities’ Respect Life Office $3,360

Expanding access to Rachel’s Vineyard

Hispanic Ministry $3,000 Building expertise,

training and materials

for Family, Health and

Bereavement ministry teams

CAMPS FROM PAGE 3

lives. Participants spend the week in prayer, attending Mass and Eucharistic Adoration, joining in group discussions and lectures, and playing games, music and more.

This year participants heard about the

beauty of consecrated life from women religious professed with the Servidoras; the Community of St. John; the Daughters of St. Paul; the Dominicans, and the Missionaries of Charity.

Marie Bellet, a wife, mother and Nashville songwriter, also gave witness to the beauty of Catholic motherhood and performed a concert. Catholic laywomen from all stages of life gave their testament to the call to holiness in every state.

Holy Redeemer Church, Andrews $5,000 Church roof repair and replacement Immaculata School, Hendersonville $5,000

Convert library to a media center

Our Lady of Consolation Church, Charlotte $5,000

Our Lady of Consolation Youth in Action program

Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, Charlotte $5,000

Casa Marillac Social Ministry – Food Pantry

Our Lady of Mercy School, Winston-Salem

New phone system

$5,000

Our Lady of the Mountains Mission, Highlands $5,000

Mold removal and remediation for the church and rectory

Prince of Peace Mission, Robbinsville $5,000

Social Hall roof repair and replacement

St. Bernadette Mission, Linville/St. Lucien Church, Spruce Pine

Friends of St. Joseph

$1,500

St. Francis of Assisi Church, Mocksville $5,000

Storage room for Hispanic music ministry

St. Jude Mission, Sapphire Valley

Church landscaping

$5,000

St. Mark Church, Huntersville $4,000

St. Stephen Ministry and integrated Elder Care

St. Michael School, Gastonia $5,000

Finishing the fence around the playground

St. Pius X School, Greensboro $2,500

St. Pius X School STREAM Lab

St. Stephen Mission, Elkin

Bilingual Parish Retreat

ANGELS FROM PAGE 6

“You could see the smile behind their masks as they witnessed the amazing talents and abilities of these angels,” Kuhn said.

“It was emotionally draining,” said Fra’ Tom Mulligan, president of the Federal Association of Order of Malta. “There wasn’t a dry eye in our group. Witnessing the presentation, listening to them describe the work that is done at Holy Angels, and then a very dramatic entrance of some of the residents with their caregivers was a

$3,650

very special experience for us. We were fortified by the example they provided to us there is really hope in this world.”

Before they left, several Order of Malta members expressed their love and gratitude to the people who serve the residents. They also shared their support for Holy Angels’ mission.

“Nothing represents the love and care of the Order of Malta more than Holy Angels,” said Bob Gallagher, member of the order’s board of directors.

During its quarterly meeting, the Order of Malta also invested 16 new members from around the country.

SHAWN FLYNN is the vice president of community relations for Holy Angels.

CRISTO VIENE DE LA PÁGINA 8

Estados Unidos, por lo que en 2016 pasó a completar su formación en la Pontificia Universidad Josephinum.

En su homilía durante la ordenación, el Obispo Jugis reflexionó sobre los dos hombres que respondieron al llamado para convertirse en sacerdotes.

“Queridos hermanos, Diácono Juan Miguel Sánchez y Diácono Joseph Wasswa, el Señor los ha llamado: ‘Vengan, síganme’, y ustedes han seguido ese llamado preparándose con oración y a conciencia a través de sus años de formación. Los hemos elegido hoy para el sagrado orden del sacerdocio”.

“El Señor se acerca hoy a nosotros para consagrar a estos dos hombres con la gracia del sacerdocio. Se conforman a Jesucristo, el Sumo Sacerdote, a través de la acción del Espíritu Santo, y se convierten en verdaderos sacerdotes del nuevo pacto de salvación”, dijo.

El obispo les dijo: “La gracia de la pasión salvadora, muerte y resurrección de Jesús debe ser comunicada a los fieles a través de su ministerio sacerdotal”.

Continuó: “Todo vuestro ser está ungido por el Espíritu Santo a través de este sacramento, con el carácter espiritual indeleble que los configura a Cristo el Sumo Sacerdote. ¡Qué unción reciben como sacerdotes de Cristo!”.

El Obispo Jugis también rogó a los nuevos sacerdotes que promuevan la unidad y la paz en su ministerio, siguiendo a Jesús el Buen Pastor como modelo.

“San Pablo escribió, esfuércense por preservar la unidad del espíritu a través del vínculo de la paz. Un solo cuerpo y un solo Espíritu, como también ustedes están llamados a la única esperanza de su llamado: un Señor, una fe, un bautismo, un Dios y Padre de todos, que está sobre todo, a través de todo y en todos”.

Después de la homilía, el Obispo Jugis les hizo a los hombres una serie de preguntas para expresar su disposición a ser ordenados sacerdotes y cumplir con las responsabilidades que conlleva el ministerio. Luego, uno a uno, los hombres se acercaron al obispo, colocando sus manos en las suyas expresando obediencia a él y a la Iglesia.

Siguió la Letanía de las Súplicas, durante la cual los hombres se postraron ante el altar mientras el Obispo Jugis y todos los reunidos en la Misa se arrodillaban en oración y se cantaba la Letanía de los Santos.

Luego se levantaron y acercaron al obispo, quien les impuso las manos sobre la cabeza. Durante este momento solemne del rito de ordenación, el Obispo Jugis oró en silencio para que el Espíritu Santo descendiera sobre ellos.

La diversidad de la Iglesia universal se hizo evidente cuando decenas de sacerdotes de la diócesis, algunos originarios de África, Asia, India, Centro y Sudamérica, se turnaron para invocar al Espíritu Santo e imponer las manos sobre los dos hombres.

Durante la parte de investidura del rito de ordenación, los hombres fueron investidos por personas que desempeñaron papeles importantes en su camino hacia el sacerdocio. El Padre Sánchez fue investido por el Padre Domínguez, su ex pastor y ahora vicario del Ministerio Hispano de la diócesis.

El Padre Wasswa fue investido por el abad benedictino Placid Solari de la abadía de Belmont, quien lo guió en el discernimiento de su vocación sacerdotal.

Durante la Comunión, cada uno de los sacerdotes recién ordenados pudo ofrecer la Eucaristía, que consagraron junto con el Obispo Jugis y los demás sacerdotes presentes, a sus amigos y seres queridos.

“Estoy muy agradecido por el maravilloso apoyo y las oraciones que he recibido de la gente de la diócesis a lo largo de mi formación en el seminario”, dijo el Padre Wasswa. “Espero poder servirlos fielmente y ayudarlos en nuestro camino al cielo”.

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catholicnewsherald.com | July 2, 2021 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Kathryn Evans

Jesuit Father John Michalowski

Mary Magdalene, the perfect repentant

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ary Magdalene has been a complex character in Christian thought throughout Church history. She has been variously identified as Mary of Magdala; the “sinful woman” of Luke 7:36-50 who anoints Christ’s feet and dries them with her hair; and Mary of Bethany, the sister of Martha and Lazarus. What we know from Scripture is that Mary of Magdala was one of the women who followed Jesus during His ministry in Galilee, that He exorcised seven demons from her, that she was present at the foot of the cross, and that she was the first to discover the empty tomb and witness the Risen Christ.

Especially in modern times, it has been common to represent Mary Magdalene as simply a reformed prostitute and leave things at that, though she was never considered as such in the Early Church. And thanks to the fictions of Dan Brown and his popular novel “The Da Vinci Code,” there is now also the false belief that she was actually the wife of Jesus during His time on earth, a claim that is completely unfounded in any historicity.

There is certainly a tangled web to pick apart the various impressions and ideas that have clouded around Mary Magdalene through the centuries, but there is also an abundant richness when one simply focuses on what we are given in the Gospels.

One of the ideas I have been strongly drawn to is that regardless of whether she was the “sinful woman” in Luke or what it was exactly that was sinful about her, the evangelists still clearly describe her as having seven demons driven out. Before encountering Christ, her life would not have been easy or pleasant. Today we talk about the “demons” of alcoholism and other addictions, and mental illnesses such as depression or PTSD. These often lead to destructive behavior towards ourselves and those closest to us. The Gospel writers do not provide details about Mary Magdalene’s previous life, but it is not difficult to imagine a soul in the grip of seven demons. The knowledge that those demons once had possession of her but were driven out by Christ is all the context that we are given, all the context that we need, to then see her remarkable witness as a disciple.

Whether or not she was indeed the woman who washed Christ’s feet with her hair and anointed him, Jesus’s words in Luke 7:47 still apply, “Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven – for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.” Mary Magdalene is often held up as an example of the perfect repentant – beloved by Christ because of, not in spite of, her many sins that were forgiven. In the parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector in Luke 18:9-14, Christ makes the point that it is those who humble themselves that will ultimately be exalted.

It was Mary Magdalene who was gifted to be the first witness of the Resurrection.

Though all of the Gospel writers mention her as being the first at the empty tomb on Easter Sunday, it is St. John who lingers on the

scene. While at first she did not recognize the Risen Christ, mistaking Him for a gardener, she was still the first to see Him because she was the one still seeking Him, the one still at the tomb while the others simply mourned behind locked doors. Even sorrowing and tearful, she was always seeking Christ who had already saved her. Mary knew the power of the Lord against darkness and evil, because she had already experienced that saving power herself.

St. Gregory the Great said of Magdalene, “We should reflect on Mary’s attitude and the great love she felt for Christ; for though the disciples had left the tomb, she remained. She was still seeking the one she had not found, and while she sought she wept; burning with the fire of love, she longed for Him who she thought had been taken away. And so it happened that the woman who stayed behind to seek Christ was the only one to see Him. For perseverance is essential to any good deed, as the voice of truth tells us: whoever perseveres to the end will be saved.”

Despite the many misrepresentations of Mary Magdalene through the years, there have recently been some much better portrayals of her. In the online series “The Chosen,” the very first episode of season one focuses on her redemption and the exorcising of the demons within her, and she is then featured throughout the rest of the series alongside the apostles and the Blessed Virgin Mary. Though not a specifically Catholic production, the series is definitely worth the time to check out from what I have seen so far, with its excellent production value, writing and acting. It can be watched for free online at www.thechosen.tv or through an app.

Another intriguing resource is the book “Mary Magdalene in the Visions of Anne Catherine Emmerich,” available through Tan Books. Blessed Anne Catherine Emmerich was an Augustinian nun who died in the early 19th century. A mystic and stigmatist, her visions of the life of Christ were compiled under the title “The Dolorous Passion.” The slim volume concerning Mary Magdalene contains excerpts from the larger writing and paint a vivid picture of this engaging saint, from her extravagant youth to her repentance to her love and devotion as a disciple. Blessed Anne Catherine’s visions also depict Mary Magdalene as being the younger sister of Martha and Lazarus, as well as being the one to anoint Christ’s feet.

In 2016, Pope Francis elevated the memorial of Mary Magdalene on July 22 to that of a feast, the same status as celebrations of the apostles and evangelists. In a world that is in need of so much forgiveness, let us turn in petition to St. Mary Magdalene, that perfect repentant. No matter how great our past sins, the Lord will not spurn a truly contrite heart.

KATHRYN EVANS is an author living in Salisbury, 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.”

Mortal frailty or graceful trust

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n a recent Sunday, we prayed with this opening prayer. “O God, strength of those who hope in you, graciously hear our pleas, and, since without you mortal frailty can do nothing, grant us always the help of your grace.” We are mortal beings. We will die. The great works that we think are so lasting will crumble into dust.

This reality helps us to understand the prophet Ezekiel, who speaks of tears off a tender shoot from a lofty cedar and planting it in Israel.

(Ez 17:22-24). The Babylonian Empire destroyed what seemed to be a lofty cedar, the nation of the Israelites. Yet God would take a tender shoot from the House of David, and long after the high tree of the Babylonian Empire was itself past history, that shoot will be Jesus and He will bear fruit that will span the ages.

We are part of that fruit. Many nations and peoples have found rest in our Christian faith over these 2,000 years. Who would have thought that this new way, made illegal by the Roman Empire and rejected by most in the leadership of the Jews, would ever flourish? God not only thought this, but has accomplished it. God is faithful.

When I was young and still in school in the 1950s and 1960s, many predicted that Christianity was dying.

After all, wasn’t a third of the world under Communist rule, an atheistic, materialistic system? And during the Enlightenment hundreds of years ago, many also predicted that religion would die out, for science would answer every question. Back in the 10th century, it seemed clear to many that Islam would rule the world, as the borders of Christianity continued to shrink. But time and again the words of Psalm 92 have proved true that God is faithful “throughout the night.”

Thus we are called to take heart when in Second Corinthians St. Paul reflects on the rejection and persecution that he suffered in his ministry. He tells us, “We are always courageous, although we know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith and not be sight” (5:7).

Faith does not disappoint us – even in

times of trial – for we know that Jesus will not abandon us. Jesus suffered, and through that suffering He teaches us that we are never alone. He is able to be compassionate to us in our weakness.

In fact, this is one of the things that St. Ignatius knew from his own experience and he incorporated it into the Spiritual Exercises. In the First Week of the Exercises we encounter our sin and the sin of the world.

We do this not to stir up feelings of guilt, but to help us to recognize both our need for God’s help and the love of Christ who came to save us. This is also the great gift of Alcoholics Anonymous. It teaches that without God’s help, one’s life easily gets out of control – not just with addiction, but with enslavement to pride, power, materialism, a sense of worthlessness, a political ideology, or something or someone else. Only God can free us and make us whole.

The process is often a slow one. A mustard seed of faith takes root in us and begins to grow. Often it begins with external rules. Often prayer is first speaking prayers at God and slowly they become prayers to God. Then we learn to speak with God, pouring out our hearts and learning to listen to His response. In our moral growth, at first we try to do good and avoid evil because we fear punishment. Then we work to please God because we know that He loves us. At some point, we come to realize that Christ Jesus has called each one of us to work with Him for the salvation of the world. We become disciples. Slowly we become branches on the vine of Christ where others can rest and find shade.

God is faithful, and He hears our plea.

So let us be courageous and ask God to help us to grow in trust and in love. Then we will become branches on the vine of Christ. We will help others to find rest and hope. Let us pray: “O God, strength of those who hope in you, graciously hear our pleas. Grant us always your love and your grace that we might become a resting place for those on the margins and those who mourn. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.”

‘God is faithful, and He hears our plea. So let us be courageous and ask God to help us to grow in trust and in love. Then we will become branches on the vine of Christ. ’

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

July 2, 2021 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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Bishop Robert Barron

Breaking out of the prison of self-invention

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or the past many years, I have been maintaining an internet ministry that allows me, through comment boxes, to listen in on the questions, complaints and pontifications of thousands of people in regard to religion. I have noticed that these commentaries sort themselves out in fairly predictable ways, centering around issues of God’s existence, the problem of suffering, the uniqueness of Christianity among the religions of the world, and the whole range of the Church’s sexual teachings.

But another theme that presents itself with remarkable regularity is the denial of the objectivity of truth and moral value.

I have encountered this position frequently over the years, but in the past few weeks, a spate of such objections have surfaced in the wake of a recent video of mine on the subject.

Here is one typical response: “Thirty seconds in, and he’s (“he” means me) obviously dumb: objective moral values? Those aren’t real.” Though this gentleman focused on moral values, many of the commentators on this score have equal disdain for the objectivity of truth claims.

Though this is a commonly held view, a moment’s reflection reveals how silly this position is. Since he has bothered to complain about my point of view, he obviously holds that there is something the matter with articulating an incorrect opinion, that this is something I shouldn’t do. Furthermore, since he is appealing to the public, he must think that this standard of rectitude is not merely a subjective whim of his own but a standard that is generally known. In a word, he is holding to the very principle that he denies; namely, that some objective and universal moral value exists. Moreover, in making bold to call me “dumb,” he also indirectly affirms the objectivity of truth, since he could make no such determination of my mental acuity unless he believed in some clear and knowable criterion. In a word, he is hoisted on his own petard.

Even the most radical and thoroughgoing skeptic is necessarily standing on some ground when he launches his criticism. He might quarrel with someone’s understanding of a moral or intellectual value, but the one thing he cannot coherently say is that there is no such thing as moral or intellectual value.

C.S. Lewis, arguably the greatest Christian apologist of the last century, saw this problem and endeavored to address it in his

‘It is commonly held that what we call “values” are just projections of our feelings and subjective whims.’

short but marvelous book “The Abolition of Man.” He took as his starting point a famous story told of Samuel Taylor Coleridge. As Lewis recounts it, the poet was standing with two acquaintances in the presence of a stunning waterfall. One of the people announced that the sight was “sublime,” and the other that it was indeed “pretty.”

Coleridge enthusiastically confirmed the first characterization and apparently turned away in disgust at the second. The authors of a popular book of English composition (with which Lewis was familiar) opined that Coleridge’s discrimination was baseless, since each person was simply describing the emotions that he felt in the presence of the waterfall and not anything intrinsic to the waterfall. C.S. Lewis thought this was nonsense. Rather, as Coleridge correctly evaluated, the reaction of the first person was appropriate to the real quality of the cascade, and the reaction of the second person was pathetically inappropriate to it. The objective rules the subjective – not vice versa.

Lewis’ discussion vividly calls to mind Dietrich von Hildebrand’s distinction between the objectively valuable and a subjective value response. For von Hildebrand, the point of good mentoring is to help a student recognize value in the aesthetic, ethical and epistemic orders and then to call forth from the student the response, both affective and intellectual, commensurate with the value. Once again, value language doesn’t refer to feelings, but rather to the things and events that awaken the feelings. And in this sense, both Lewis and von Hildebrand harken back to Aristotle, who said that the aim of education is to make the pupil like and dislike what he ought.

In short, feelings and affections should be trained and not simply valorized.

I mention all of this because what C.S. Lewis saw in that book of English composition some 80 years ago is now everywhere in our culture. In fact, it is the default position of practically everyone under the age of 40. It is commonly held that what we call “values” are just projections of our feelings and subjective whims, and consequently, anyone who dares to speak of properly objective truth or objective moral value is engaging in an oppressive play of power.

The upshot of all this is that we have locked ourselves into millions of little prisons from which we have little choice but to hurl invective at one another. Perhaps the principle advantage of acknowledging objective value is that it provides the opportunity for all of us to fall in love together with something good, true and beautiful. It permits us to break free of the prison of our egotism and to enter, together, a journey of exploration.

So don’t let people seduce you with the rhetoric of self-invention and being free to make up one’s own values. In the final analysis, there is no project duller and more suffocating than that.

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

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catholicnewsherald.com | July 2, 2021 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

As I have loved you.

Como yo los he amado.

— John 13:34

— Juan 13:34

Mark your calendar for the 17th Eucharistic Congress September 17-18, 2021 — Charlotte Convention Center

Marque su calendario para el XVII Congreso Eucarístico J UA N 1 3 : 3 4

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Para información y voluntariado: www.GoEucharist.com

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L O S HE A YO M

AD

For information and to volunteer: www.GoEucharist.com

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Septiembre 17 y 18, 2021— Centro de Convenciones de Charlotte CO

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