November 4, 2011
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
INSIDE: St. Michael Church member takes final vows as Discalced Carmelite nun, 13
Answering God’s call
The Kauth family is blessed with several vocations, 12
FUNDED by the parishioners of the diocese of charlotte
More senior housing is coming
THANK YOU!
Ground broken for affordable community in Salisbury, 3
Calendar 4 Diocese 3-7
FAITH 2
mix 16-17 nation & World 18-21 Schools 14-15
75 years of faithfulness St. Margaret Mary celebrates 75 years in Swannanoa Valley, 5
Archbishop Donoghue ill, 3
Viewpoints 22-24
Call us: 704-370-3333 E-mail us: catholicnews@charlottediocese.org
Our faith
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catholicnewsherald.com | November 4, 2011 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD
Pope Benedict XVI
Pope prays G-20 summit will help world’s poor VATICAN CITY — Pope Benedict XVI prayed that a summit of the leaders of countries with the world’s largest economies would find ways to overcome the current economic crisis and promote real development. At the end of his weekly general audience Nov. 2, the pope issued a special appeal to the leaders of the G-20 nations scheduled to meet Nov. 3-4 in Cannes, France. “I hope the meeting will help overcome the difficulties, which – on a global level – block the promotion of an authentically human and integral development,” the pope said. The G-20 members are: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, the United Kingdom, the U.S. and the European Union. The agenda for the Cannes meeting aimed at finding ways to coordinate economic policies to reduce global imbalances between rich and poor; strengthening the regulation of financial markets; and promoting development in the world’s poorer countries despite the global crisis. In view of the Cannes summit, the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace released a document Oct. 24 calling for the gradual creation of a world political authority with broad powers to regulate financial markets, rein in the “inequalities and distortions of capitalist development,” and promote development and the common good. (See related news item on page 20.) In his main audience talk, Pope Benedict spoke about the day’s feast of All Souls and the need for Catholics to live in a way that really makes clear their belief in eternal life. Jesus, “in the supreme act of love on the cross, immersed Himself in the abyss of death, conquering it, rising from the dead and opening for us, too, the doors of eternity. Christ sustains us through the dark night of death, which He Himself passed through.” — Cindy Wooden, Catholic News Service
St. Joseph hailed as model for upcoming ‘Year of Faith’ PHILADELPHIA — The author of a landmark work on St. Joseph says Christ’s foster father offers believers a model for building trust in God during the newlyannounced “Year of Faith.” “This was a man of faith, like Abraham. He was being asked to believe the impossible,” said Father Joseph Chorpenning, an Oblate of St. Francis de Sales who compiled two decades of research and lectures in his book “Joseph of Nazareth Through the Centuries” (St. Joseph’s University Press). “We need to bring these figures down to earth for people,” Father Chorpenning said Oct. 18, two days after Pope Benedict announced the 2012-2013 “Year of Faith” that will begin Oct. 11, 2012. “It’s challenging, but that’s what needs to happen. When you look at Joseph, you have to look at him as a man of faith.” Father Chorpenning holds up the chaste husband of the Virgin Mary as a figure of inspiration “in a world that’s losing faith, at every level of society.” Blessed John Paul II also regarded Jesus’ earthly father as a prototype for believers in their journey of faith. Vatican II’s document on the Church, “Lumen Gentium,” spoke of Mary’s “pilgrimage of faith” as an example for all followers of Christ. It was only later that Blessed John Paul II spoke of St. Joseph in the same terms, in the apostolic exhortation “Redemptoris Custos” (“Guardian of the Redeemer”). “At the beginning of Mary’s pilgrimage of faith, she meets Joseph – and his faith. So these two people are united in a pilgrimage of faith. Her journey, of course, extends beyond Joseph’s, since it’s assumed he died before Christ’s public life. But they were united, in the mystery of the Incarnation, in this common pilgrimage.” Both Mary and Joseph, in different circumstances, encountered angels who
described the mystery of God’s arrival among mankind. But both saints, Father Chorpenning observed, needed years of life experience to deepen their understanding of what they believed by faith. “What he’s being told, in that annunciation, goes against everything that he’s being told by the culture,” Father Chorpenning said. “First of all, they were both probably relatively young. Joseph – as a devout Jew – would have expected to marry and to have many children. A man’s identity was defined by his family.” Yet, “he’s being told: ‘You’re going to give that up. You are to take Mary into your home; you are to surrender yourself, with all that involves, to taking Mary into your home and acting as a father to the child she is going to bear, even though you did not biologically generate him.’” After 20 years of research, Father Chorpenning still speaks with amazement about the humble man who served as the foster father to Jesus. “I mean, this was a carpenter from Palestine! And you see the pictures and the paintings, where he’s sitting on a throne with a crown holding the Christ Child – I say to people, ‘Well, we certainly have come a long way from Nazareth.’” “Obviously, there is a theological meaning to those images. But I think what we need to emphasize to people is that Joseph and Mary were people who responded to what God was asking of them, as it was being revealed to them, in the circumstances of their SueAnn Howell | Catholic News Herald daily lives.” This statue of St. Joseph holding the Christ Child is at the Poor — Catholic News Agency Clares of Perpetual Adoration St. Joseph Monastery in Charlotte.
Your daily Scripture readings SCRIPTURE FOR THE WEEK OF NOV. 6 - NOV. 12
Sunday, Wisdom 6:12-16, 1 Thessalonians 4:1318, Matthew 25:1-13; Monday, Wisdom 1:1-7, Luke 17:1-6; Tuesday, Wisdom 2:23-3:9, Luke 17:7-10; Wednesday, Ezekiel 47:1-12, 8-9, 12, Corinthians 3:9-11, 16-17, John 2:13-22; Thursday (St. Leo the Great), Wisdom 7:22-8:1, Luke 17:20-25; Friday (St. Martin of Tours), Wisdom 13:1-9, Luke 17:2637; Saturday (St. Josaphat), Wisdom 18:14-16, 19:6-9, Luke 18:1-8
SCRIPTURE FOR THE WEEK OF NOV. 13 - NOV. 19
Sunday, Proverbs 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-6, Matthew, 25:14-30; Monday, 1 Maccabees 1:10-15, 41-43, 54-57, 62-63, Luke 18:35-43; Tuesday (St. Albert the Great), 2 Maccabees 6:18-31, Luke 19:1-10; Wednesday (St. Margaret of Scotland, St. Gertrude), 2 Maccabees 7:1, 20-31, Luke 19:11-28; Thursday (St. Elizabeth of Hungary), 1 Maccabees 2:15-29, Luke 19:4144; Friday (St. Rose Philippine Duchesne), 1 Maccabees 4:36-37, 52-59, 1 Chronicles 29:10-12, Luke 19:45-48; Saturday, 1 Maccabees 6:1-13, Luke 20:27-40
SCRIPTURE FOR THE WEEK OF NOV. 20 - NOV. 26
Sunday (Christ the King), Ezekiel 34:11-12, 1517, 1 Corinthians 15:20-26, 28, Matthew 25:31-46; Monday (Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary), Daniel 1:1-6, 8-20, Daniel 3:52-56, Luke 21:14; Tuesday (St. Cecilia), Daniel 2:31-45, Daniel 3:57-61, Luke 21:5-11; Wednesday (St. Clement I, St. Columban, Bl. Miguel Agustin Pro), Daniel 5:1-6, 13-14, 16-17, 23-28, Daniel 3:62-67, Luke 21:12-19; Thursday (St. Andrew Dung-Lac and Companions), Daniel 6:12-28, Daniel 3:68-74, Luke 21:20-28; Friday (St. Catherine of Alexandria), Daniel 7:2-14, Daniel 3:75-81, Luke 21:29-33; Saturday, Daniel 7:15-27, Daniel 3:82-87, Luke 21:34-36
Our parishes
November 4, 2011 | catholicnewsherald.com
Please pray for Archbishop Donoghue
In Brief
Patricia L. Guilfoyle | Catholic News Herald
Ground broken for affordable senior housing community in Salisbury Patricia L. Guilfoyle Editor
Parish celebrates ‘burning the mortgage’ KERNERSVILLE — About 300 parishioners of Holy Cross Church in Kernersville gathered after Mass Oct. 15 to watch as their pastor, Father Paul Dechant, OSFS, ceremonially burned the church’s mortgage at the feet of a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child. The original mortgage was for $911,000, obtained on May 15, 2003, and payment was completed 18 months early. Holy Cross began as a mission with 10 families in 1969, and now includes more than 1,200 families. — Fred Hogan
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Monsignor Mauricio West, vicar general and chancellor of the Charlotte diocese, as well as president of The Diocese of Charlotte Housing Corp.; Bishop Emeritus William Curlin, who founded the Diocese of Charlotte Housing Corp.; Salisbury Mayor Susan Kluttz; Garry Merritt, president of the N.C. Housing Foundation; Father John Putnam, pastor of Sacred Heart Church in Salisbury; and Jon Sarver of Sarver Housing Group turn the dirt for the Diocese of Charlotte’s newest senior affordable housing community.
Archbishop John F. Donoghue, former Bishop of Charlotte, is in need of our prayers due to “health concerns,” according to Archbishop Wilton Gregory of Atlanta. Archbishop Donoghue, 83, retired as Atlanta archbishop in 2004. Before going to Atlanta, he served from 1984 to 1993 as the second bishop of Charlotte. An Oct. 20 memo from Archbishop Gregory stated Donoghue that Archbishop Donoghue has grown increasingly weak and that the health concerns have “taxed his system.” “I write now to ask you to keep him in your prayers,” Archbishop Gregory wrote. Archbishop Donoghue is unable to receive visitors but personal notes and cards can be addressed to him at Saint George Village, 11350 Woodstock Rd., Roswell, GA 30075. As information on Archbishop Donoghue’s condition becomes available, the Catholic News Herald will post updates on www. catholicnewsherald.com and on Facebook.
For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com
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SALISBURY — Diocesan and North Carolina housing officials broke ground Oct. 27 on an affordable senior housing community adjacent to Sacred Heart Church and School in Salisbury. Bishop Emeritus William G. Curlin blessed the site of Good Shepherd Gardens at 375 Lumen Christi Lane, with more than two dozen Church and housing leaders and laity present. Then following prayers for its successful completion, ceremonial shovels were turned in the dirt to officially kick off the construction phase of this project – the first of its kind for the Diocese of Charlotte. Good Shepherd Gardens will be an apartment complex for low-income seniors, and is a joint venture between the Diocese of Charlotte Housing Corp. and the N.C. Housing Foundation, funded in part by a $3 million grant last year from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Those present at the groundbreaking ceremony included Monsignor Mauricio West, vicar general and chancellor of the diocese, who is also president of the Diocese of Charlotte Housing Corp.; Salisbury
Mayor Susan W. Kluttz; Jerry Widelski, director of the Diocese of Charlotte Housing Corp.; Garry Merritt, president of the N.C. Housing Foundation; Sacred Heart Church’s Father John Putnam and Father Benjamin Roberts, and Father James Ebright; and architects and building contractors who are working on the project. Good Shepherd Gardens will consist of 18 one-bedroom affordable apartment units, 540 square feet each, for individuals who are 62 or older. Rent will be offered on a sliding scale depending on the residents’ income levels, and will include water, sewer and trash service. The maximum income limit for individuals is about $21,000, and for a two-person household the maximum income limit is about $24,000. All units will include Energy Star appliances to promote energy conservation and will be built using environmentallyfriendly green building materials that provide a healthier living environment. There will be a community room, community kitchen, parlor, library, porch, patio, storage units and an elevator, besides laundry rooms on each floor. Some units will be handicapped accessible, and visiting providers will offer periodic on-site social, health, educational
and spiritual activities. Construction is expected to be completed in September 2012, and the apartments to open in October 2012 to qualified seniors of all races and religions. Widelski said the 13-acre site adjacent to Sacred Heart Church has room for Good Shepherd Gardens to expand in the future, depending on the economic climate and the availability of funding. Founded in 2001 by Bishop Emeritus Curlin, the Diocese of Charlotte Housing Corp. was created for the purposes of: creating, maintaining, promoting and operating housing facilities and accompanying services for seniors, individuals and families with low incomes, and other vulnerable populations. Good Shepherd Gardens is the second project undertaken by the Diocese of Charlotte Housing Corp., and the first exclusively for low-income seniors. The first was Curlin Commons in Mooresville, an affordable housing apartment complex for seniors with low to moderate incomes. For more information about Good Shepherd Gardens or the Diocese of Charlotte Housing Corp., contact Jerry Widelski at 704-370-3248 or jvwidelski@ charlottediocese.org.
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catholicnewsherald.com | November 4, 2011 OUR PARISHES
Diocesan calendar of events ARDEN ST. BARNABAS CHURCH, 109 CRESCENT HILL DR. — Holocaust survivor Charlene Schiff from Horochow, Poland, will speak of her experiences, 7 p.m. Nov. 9. A 6 p.m. Mass will precede, refreshments will follow. Contact 828-684-6098.
Bishop Peter J. Jugis Bishop Peter J. Jugis will participate in the following events over the next two weeks:
— “Here is Your Mother: Full of Grace.” Fall women’s program will present approved Marian apparitions, messages and reflections. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 19. Lunch provided. Contact Marcia Torres at johnandmarciatorres@yahoo.com or 828-697-1235 by Nov. 15.
Nov. 4 – 7 p.m. Sacrament of Confirmation St. Vincent de Paul Church, Charlotte
BELMONT
Nov. 6 – 2 p.m. Mass for Wedding Anniversaries St. Thomas Aquinas Church, Charlotte
belmont abbey college, 100 belmont-mt. holly road — “First Fridays at the Abbey,” 5 p.m. First Fridays (Sept.May), followed by dinner. On Nov. 4 there will be a “Contra Dance” hosted by students, following the Mass and meal.
Nov. 8 – 11 a.m. Presbyteral Council Meeting Pastoral Center
sacred heart church, 100 Brian Berg Lane — Craft Show, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Oct. 28 and 29. Contact 828-884-4552.
Nov. 12 – 1 p.m. Sacrament of Confirmation Our Lady of the Assumption Church, Charlotte Nov. 13-17 USCCB Meeting Baltimore, Md.
st. THOMAS MORE church, 940 CARMICHAEL ST. — The John Paul II Legacy Lecture Series, 7 p.m. Nov. 14, 15 and 16.
— Perpetual Hope Gospel Choir in Concert! 3 p.m. Nov. 20 ST. basil eastern catholic mission, 7702 pineville-matthews road — Vespers for the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lady, Charlotte Catholic High School chapel, 4 p.m. Nov. 20. Visit www.stbasil.weebly.com. ST. gabriel CHURCH, 3016 providence road
In the Oct. 7 story “Healing Bread – Cenacles of Divine Mercy Day of Healing held at St. Matthew Church in Charlotte,” the title of Bruce Brodowski’s book was misidentified. It is “My Father, My Son, Healing the Orphan Heart with the Father’s Love.” We regret the error.
November 4, 2011 Volume 21 • Number 1
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
— Bereavement Care Training Seminar, 9:30-11 a.m. Nov. 19. Contact Al Tinson at 704-575-6898. — “The Three Conversations that Changed the World,” Education Wing “mini-hall,” 7:45-8:45 p.m. Nov. 30, Dec. 7 and Dec. 14. Contact office at 704-535-4197. ST. MATTHEW CHURCH, 8015 BALLANTYNE COMMONS PKWY. — St. Peregrine Healing Prayer Service, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 10 — Lectio Divina, 10-11 a.m. first and third Thursdays. Contact Pat Donlevy at 704-541-8960. — Fall Scripture Study: “Understanding the Mystery of the Mass,” 10-11 a.m. Nov. 6 and 20. Contact Margaret at jmgusto@bellsouth.net.
— Military Appreciation Mass, 10:45 a.m. Nov. 6. Active duty military are encouraged to wear their uniforms. Contact Fred or Janet Mercer at frickmm@bellsouth.net. — Mass for Deceased Spouses, 12:30 p.m. Nov. 13
EDITOR: Patricia L. Guilfoyle 704-370-3334, plguilfoyle@charlottediocese.org COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT/CIRCULATION: Denise Onativia 704-370-3333, catholicnews@charlottediocese.org ADVERTISING MANAGER: Kevin Eagan 704-370-3332, keeagan@charlottediocese.org STAFF WRITER: SueAnn Howell 704-370-3354, sahowell@charlottediocese.org HISPANIC COMMUNICATIONS: Carlos Castañeda 704-370-3375, cmcastaneda@charlottediocese.org GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Tim Faragher 704-370-3331, tpfaragher@charlottediocese.org Online reporter: Kimberly Bender 704-370-3237 kdbender@charlottediocese.org
— “Circle of Friends” Grief Support Group, office conference room, 7 p.m. Thursdays. Contact Robyn Magyar at 704-707-5070. ST. vincent de paul church, 6828 old reid road — Catholics Returning Home Program, Faith Formation Center, 7:30-9 p.m. Nov. 8 and 14. Register at 704-5547088.
OUR LADY OF CONSOLATION CHURCH, 2301 STATESVILLE AVE.
Correction
— Interfaith “Prayer of Remembrance,” 7 p.m. Nov. 7. Bring a photo of your departed to be placed on the “table of remembrance.” RSVP to Maria Romeo at mromeo@ carolina.rr.com.
ST. thomas aquinas church, 1400 Suther Road
CHAPEL HILL
CHARLOTTE
Nov. 19 – 2 p.m. Sacrament of Confirmation St. Matthew Church, Charlotte
ST. JOHN NEUMAnN CHURCH, 8451 IDLEWILD ROAD
ST. patrick cathedral, 1621 dilworth road east
BREVARD
Nov. 10 – 7 p.m. Sacrament of Confirmation St. Francis of Assisi Church, Mocksville
— Mass for Parents/Grandparents of Deceased Children, 12:30 p.m. Nov. 20
— Charlotte Catholic Women’s Group (CCWG) Reflection with Father David Miller, 9 a.m. Nov. 7. Contact Mary Catherine Surface at mcsurface@gmail.com or 704-651-5860.
GREENSBORO st. PAUL THE APOSTLE CHURCH, 2715 HORSE PEN CREEK ROAD — Walking with Purpose Advent by Candlelight, 8:30 a.m. Nov. 19. Contact Patty Disney at 336-382-2558. Visit www. walkingwithpurpse.com. st. pius x CHURCH, 2210 n. elm st.
This week’s spotlight: Mass for Wedding Anniversaries Celebrated by Bishop Peter Jugis Sunday, November 6, 2 p.m. St. Thomas Aquinas Church, 1400 Suther Road, Charlotte
— “Learn to Pray the Liturgy of the Hours,” Kloster Center, 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Contact Elliott Suttle at spiusx. lothclass@gmail.com.
HENDERSONVILLE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CHURCH, 208 Seventh Avenue West — St. Francis of the Hills Fraternity of the Secular Franciscan order invites you to a “Come and See.” They meet 1-3:30 p.m. fourth Sundays. Contact Randy Hair, S.F.O., at 828698-6466 or Tim Gibson, S.F.O., at 828-606-1728.
LINCOLNTON St. Dorothy Church, 148 Saint Dorothy’s Lane — Sacred Heart Mission: Discover the Love of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, 7 p.m. Nov. 6-9
MURPHY St. William Church, 765 Andrews Road — “Come Home for the Holidays,” Open house to welcome Catholics who have been away from the Church, 2-3 p.m. Nov. 6. Contact Linda Ammerman at fireyes414@yahoo. com or 706-897-0363.
Is your PARISH OR SCHOOL hosting a free event open to the public? Deadline for all submissions for the diocesan calendar is 10 days prior to desired publication date. Submit in writing to catholicnews@charlottediocese.org or fax to 704-370-3282.
— “Coping with Grief During the Holidays,” 2-4 p.m. Nov. 20. Contact 336-272-4681.
The Catholic News Herald is published by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte 28 times a year. NEWS: The Catholic News Herald welcomes your news and photos. Please e-mail information, attaching photos in JPG format with a recommended resolution of 150 dpi or higher, to catholicnews@charlottediocese.org. All submitted items become the property of the Catholic News Herald and are subject to reuse, in whole or in part, in print, electronic formats and archives. ADVERTISING: Reach 165,000 Catholics across western North Carolina! For advertising rates and information,
contact Advertising Manager Kevin Eagan at 704-370-3332 or keeagan@charlottediocese.org. The Catholic News Herald reserves the right to reject or cancel advertising for any reason, and does not recommend or guarantee any product, service or benefit claimed by our advertisers. SUBSCRIPTIONS: $15 per year for all registered parishioners of the Diocese of Charlotte and $23 per year for all others. POSTMASTER: Periodicals class postage (USPC 007-393) paid at Charlotte, N.C. Send address corrections to the Catholic News Herald, 1123 S. Church St., Charlotte, N.C. 28203.
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OUR PARISHESI
November 4, 2011 | catholicnewsherald.com
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In Brief
Parishioners of St. Margaret Mary Church enjoyed sunny weather last month during a celebration of the parish’s 75th anniversary.
Boone parishioner marks 100th birthday BOONE — Vera Coykendall celebrated her 100th birthday with a party provided by St. Elizabeth of the Hill Country Church’s Second Wednesday Club on Oct. 12. Coykendall was born Oct. 14, 1911. Pictured are (from left) club president Herlinda Poe, Father David Brzoska, pastor, Coykendall and “Teddy,” who share a laugh during the party. The framed newspaper is a section from the Sept. 18 edition of the Watauga Democrat about Coykendall and two other local centenarians. — Tom Mayer of Mountain Times Publications
Father Matthew Leonard, pastor, says the blessing during a recent celebration marking St. Margaret Mary Church of Swannanoa’s 75th anniversary.
Important dates Sept. 9, 1936
First gathering of the parish. The first pastor was Greensboro native Father Joseph Lennox Federal, who later became bishop of Salt Lake City, Utah. The church is named for St. Margaret Mary Alacoque of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, whose feast day is celebrated on Oct. 16.
Photos provided by Beth Searles
St. Margaret Mary celebrates 75 years in Swannanoa Valley Beth Searles Correspondent
‘Stompin’ Out Poverty’ raises funds for OEO MURPHY — More than 150 people recently gathered for an evening fundraiser for Catholic Social Services’ Office of Economic Opportunity, sponsored by St. William and Immaculate Heart of Mary churches. A Western-themed décor, with music and cuisine to match, helped to raise more than $23,000 for OEO. The good works of OEO in the western North Carolina counties of Cherokee, Clay, Graham and Swain include providing financial literacy resources, offering counseling services, and building family strengthening partnerships in the communities OEO serves. This year’s OEO gala fundraiser, “Stompin’ Out Poverty,” was coordinated by IHM parishioners Michele and Bob McGinnis and was held at The Ridges Resort on Lake Chatuge. Pictured above are IHM parishioners John Lepore and Sister Terry Martin, CND, sporting the Western motif of the gala. Sister Terry serves on OEO’s advisory board and serves the Diocese of Charlotte as the social outreach coordinator for Clay and Cherokee counties. — Joseph Purello
SWANNANOA — In the fall of 1936, in the midst of the Great Depression, the faithful gathered in Swannanoa Valley for the first Mass celebrated at St. Margaret Mary Church. Seventy-five years later, this small but dedicated church joyfully observed its anniversary with an outdoor Mass, picnic and raffle, lively Hispanic music, history exhibit and tours. Father Matthew J. Leonard recalled the founders of the church during his homily and reflected on their spirit of sacrifice during that troubled era. What should have been a stumbling block to the church’s founding, however, seemed instead to galvanize those early parishioners. The need for the Church’s presence in the
Swannanoa Valley surged in the late 1920s as textile manufacturers and workers relocated from New England to this remote valley. Prior to 1936, Catholics of the area had to make a day’s trip to St. Lawrence Basilica in Asheville, sometimes in difficult weather. Responding to the need were benefactor Kate Kelley through the Catholic Extension Society of Chicago, and Bishop William Hafey who purchased the land – but it was those early parishioners who cultivated the beginnings of St. Margaret Mary. That same spirit inspires today’s parish of about 322 members. Claudia Graham, task force manager for the celebration, refers to St. Margaret Mary Parish as the “quiet church” that’s nonetheless generous in its charitable efforts, giving to organizations like Swannanoa Valley Christian Ministries and helping CELEBRATION, SEE page 7
Oct. 11, 1936
The church is dedicated by Bishop William Hafey.
1955
Handmade copper Stations of the Cross are installed.
1967
Bishop Vincent Waters dedicates a two-story brick addition to house classrooms, social hall, etc. A confessional and cry room are added.
1999
A columbarium is added.
2002
Church windows and four doors behind the altar are replaced with stained glass.
2011
St. Margaret Mary Church celebrates 75 years serving the faithful in Swannanoa, Black Mountain, East Asheville and Riceville Road.
Pastors of St. Margaret Mary Church 1936-1938 1938-1942 1942-1946 1946-1949 1949-1958 1958-1962 1962-1965
Father Joseph Lennox Federal (later Bishop of Salt Lake City, Utah) Monsignor Hugh Dolan Monsignor Michael A. Carey Father Walter F. Higgins Father John J. Hyland Father John A. Weidinger Father Henry Becker
1965-1969 1969-1972 1973-1994 1994-1995 1995-2003 2003-2009 2009-present
Monsignor John P. Manley Father Stephen A. Sullivan Father Pius F. Keating, SA Monsignor Anthony Marcaccio Father Andrew J. Latsko Father Frank J. Seabo Father Matthew J. Leonard
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catholicnewsherald.com | November 4, 2011 OUR PARISHES
Room at the Inn of the Triad marks 12 years of life Georgianna Penn Correspondent
GREENSBORO — Room at the Inn of the Triad celebrated its 12th annual benefit banquet Oct. 18 at the Embassy Suites in Greensboro. Abby Johnson, former director of a Planned Parenthood in Texas and author of “Unplanned,” was the keynote speaker for the evening. The night was celebrated with supporters from many faith communities. The invocation was given by Dr. Craig Childs, pastor of the Kirk Church in Greensboro, while the blessing of the food was celebrated by Father John Eckert of Our Lady of Grace Church in Greensboro. Keynote speaker Abby Johnson gave a detailed account of the eight years she spent working as an office manager in an abortion facility. She also shared her story of conversion. “I didn’t get voted out of Planned Parenthood, I got prayed out,” Johnson said, describing how prolife advocates prayed daily outside of her workplace for those eight years. “Women in an unplanned pregnancy are only looking for a sign,” Johnson said. She pointed out that no one grows up thinking of one day having an abortion. “Women going in to have an abortion are looking for a way out,” she emphasized. She explained that her work was filled with inconsistencies. She said they were never allowed to refer to the fetus as a “baby,” but that women would always ask if their baby would feel anything during the procedure. Her final sign to leave the abortion industry was imprinted on her heart the day she was asked to assist in an ultra-sound guided abortion. She watched the growing fetus react in pain to the procedure – witnessing the struggling baby changed her life and her heart forever. She would not ignore this sign. Silence filled the room as supporters were captivated by the horrific details of the ultra-sound guided abortion. Abby Johnson’s story is one of reality, truth, hope and conversion and is an answered prayer for the Church and prolife movement. She closed her program pleading that “the pro-life movement will continue to grow if we get the word out about places like Room at the Inn.” A video message from Bishop Peter J.
Room at the Inn banquet in Charlotte recognizes pro-life leaders SueAnn Howell Staff writer
Georgianna Penn | Catholic News Herald
Abby Johnson, author of “Unplanned” and the keynote speaker at Room at the Inn of the Triad’s annual banquet in Greensboro earlier this month, is pictured on the right. She signed copies of her book at the event. Jugis, shown during the banquet, urged the faithful to see the face of Christ in our women and children, and his words carried the evening into a more positive note. An appeal was made by Elizabeth Hedgecock, vice chair of the Room at the Inn of the Triad board of trustees, and much gratitude was given to Kimberly Romie and Marianne Donadio for their efforts coordinating the event. Room at the Inn of the Triad is an answered prayer for its mothers and children, but could not be without supporters like Barbara Holt, who was presented at the end of the evening with the Father Conrad Lewis Kimbrough ProLife Award for her efforts supporting life in the Triad area over the years. For more information about Room at the Inn of the Triad, which is not affiliated with Room at the Inn of Charlotte, or to volunteer or donate, contact 336-996-3788.
CHARLOTTE — The excitement was palpable at the 17th annual Room at the Inn banquet held Oct. 27. More than 1,100 Room at the Inn supporters gathered in the Crown Ballroom at the Charlotte Convention Center/NASCAR Hall of Fame in uptown Charlotte to rally around this year’s theme, “Defending Life on Solid Ground.” Three pro-life awards were presented at the banquet: the Monsignor William Wellein Award, given to Tracy Winsor, co-founder of Be Not Afraid ministry of Charlotte; the Outstanding Service Award, presented to Linda Reece, a volunteer at Room at the Inn who teachers mothers how to prepare healthy meals for their children; and the Hero For Life Award, given to Joylily Bogle of Waxhaw, a 17-year-old student who gives generously of her time at Room at the Inn, starting in the clothing ministry, helping where needed and providing Spanish/ English translation services, too. “Since its beginning this ministry has touched thousands of lives, through the grace of God and the generosity of our donors,” said Jeannie Wray, Room at the Inn’s executive director. “In the past fiscal year through the residential and outreach programs, 557 women and children and newborns were served. Thirty-three of them actively considered abortion, but Room at the Inn provided the hope and support for them to choose life for their babies. “This year we also distributed roughly 10,000 pounds of food through our food pantry. The need is still so great and that is why we must always have a presence in Charlotte.” Bishop Peter J. Jugis of the Diocese of Charlotte was present at the banquet and gave the invocation. A main highlight for Room at the Inn this past year was the groundbreaking for the new college-based maternity center on the campus of Belmont Abbey College in Belmont. Room at the Inn hopes to open the facility in 2012. During the banquet Wray also shared some sad news: Kortney Blythe-Gordon, a former Room at the Inn staff member who had joined Students for Life as a field director, was recently killed on her way home from a pro-life presentation at a college in Georgia.
sueann howell | catholic news herald
Tracy Winsor, co-founder of Be Not Afraid Ministry in Charlotte, is the 2011 recipient of the Monsignor William Wellein Award, given annually by Room at the Inn to a person who has given outstanding service to defend the rights of the unborn and protect the dignity and sanctity of human life. She and her unborn daughter died in the wreck. Wray promised that Room at the Inn will memorialize Blythe-Gordon with a garden at the new college facility. Feminists for Life also plans to plant a tree there in her honor. After the awards presentations, the keynote address was delivered by Dr. Gerard M. Nadal, national director of Medical Students for Life. Nadal is a microbiologist who has served as a professor at St. John’s University and the Catholic University of America in addition to his work in the prolife movement. Nadal criticized the way language is being manipulated by abortion supporters to redefine when human life begins. “Most people are unaware that more than 30 years ago, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists changed the very definition of conception and pregnancy. They are both now defined as the implantation of the embryo… That opens the gates to Hell,” Nadal warned. “So if a woman is on birth control that prevents implantation, it is not considered an abortifacent then. We see how the lie then sets up a whole domino effect in the medical community.” For more information about Room at the Inn of Charlotte which is not affiliated with the Room at the Inn of the Triad, and to view this year’s video about the women and children they serve, go to www.rati.org.
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November 4, 2011 | catholicnewsherald.com
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Mary B. Worthington | Catholic News Herald
The extraordinary life of Blessed Teresa of Calcutta was on display at Belmont Abbey College Oct. 24-26. Abbey students found time between classes and at lunch to peruse the display. Here, Bri Rose, Emily Walker and Jon Biddex, all juniors, browse the exhibit. Rose said her favorite quote from Mother Teresa was, “How can there be too many children? That’s like saying there are too many flowers.”
Mother Teresa ‘visits’ the Abbey Traveling display on exhibit for students, diocesan community
sueann howell | catholic news herald
Celebrating the Jubilee Year of St. Clare Bishop Peter J. Jugis (top row, center) is pictured with the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration after a special Mass to celebrate the Jubilee Year of St. Clare held at St. Patrick Cathedral in Charlotte Oct. 27. Four communities of Poor Clares – two from Ohio, one from Washington, D.C., and the Poor Clares from St. Joseph Monastery in Charlotte – attended the Mass.
Mary B. Worthington Correspondent
BELMONT — “A joyful heart is the normal result of a heart burning with love.” With these words, Mother Teresa urged her order of women religious dedicated to serving Christ in the poorest of the poor to live lives of joy and love for Christ. Visitors to Belmont Abbey College last week had the opportunity to view writings by Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, photos and biographical notes as part of a traveling display about the beloved saint that aims to spread devotion to her and to inspire vocations. In September, the display was at the annual Eucharistic Congress in Charlotte and also traveled to several area schools and parishes. Last week, it spent two days at Belmont Abbey College. Easels displaying four large posters each depicting photos, writings and biographical notes of the life of Mother Teresa were on display in the Haid Ballroom at the college. Students, staff and community members alike dropped in to visit the exhibit, be inspired by Mother Teresa’s life, and receive a memento holy card. “She is a beautiful example of trust in God and how He provides if we just let Him,” said Darby Robichaux, a junior from Louisiana. “I didn’t realize the scope of the mission of the Missionaries of Charity,” he continued, referring to the many little-known branches of the Missionaries of Charity such as lay brothers and contemplative sisters. Tricia Stevenson, the director of campus ministry for Belmont Abbey College, was responsible for bringing the display to the school. “It is very interesting to see pictures spanning her whole life, especially the pictures of when she was young in her native garb,” said Stevenson. “We usually see a tiny person, all wrinkly… but she grew into that image that we all have in our head. All the saints were once regular people!” Steve and Beth Manning, members of St. Gabriel in Charlotte and Missionaries of Charity volunteers for many years, have been handling the schedule for the traveling display with the single mission of inspiring sanctity in others through Mother Teresa’s life. “By reading the life story of Blessed Teresa, you are touched by her humility and her desire to be like Christ,” said Beth Manning. “She inspires people to begin to think about helping others and her wisdom brings out the best in people. We feel so privileged to be chosen to carry her exhibit to places she wants to be. People are just opening their arms to her and are so excited to be able to read about Blessed Teresa.” If your parish or school is interested in opening to host the display, contact the Mannings at hope24@bellsouth.net.
CELEBRATION FROM PAGE 5
hundreds of families annually through the parish’s St. Vincent de Paul Society. The plight of the needy is just as real today, explains Graham, just as it was in the 1930s. Reaching out to their Grovemont community, St. Margaret Mary Church offered tours. Visitors heard the story of the unusual Stations of the Cross, handmade of hammered copper by a serviceman, Mike Schnekser, who was a patient at Swannanoa Rehabilitation Center in the 1950s. Encouraged by his therapist, Renee Kantor,
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In Brief
Schnekser finished the carefully detailed project in six months, with limited resources. Stained glass windows in the church were similarly a labor of love in the late 1990s, when Father Andrew Latsko, Mary Wilke and Julie Howachyn spearheaded that project, and parishioners held numerous fund-raisers. Depicting the life of Christ through the mysteries of the rosary, the striking windows are the work of Fairview artist Rich Leech. Three founding members are still living. Opal LemIeux, Muriel Stone and Marilyn Brown help to represent the faithful stewardship of 75 years of St. Margaret Mary Church, which has celebrated 760 baptisms, 481 first Communions, 244 marriage ceremonies, and more – the “quiet” work of the Catholic faithful in this picturesque valley.
television programs with Father Benedict Groeschel and Father Mitch Pacwa. In his ministry, he draws extensively from the Ignatian tradition of spiritual direction and spirituality of Divine Mercy and Marian Devotion. There is a registration fee of $40 for the retreat. For more information, contact Meredith Magyar at 704-5354197 or meredith@4sjnc.org.
Retreat with Father Gaitley planned
Asheville parish reunion planned
CHARLOTTE — “Consoling the Heart of Jesus,” a retreat inspired by the spiritualities of St. Faustina, St. Ignatius, St. Thérèse of Lisieux, and St. Louis de Montfort, will be held Nov. 4-6 at St. John Neumann Church, 8451 Idlewild Road, Charlotte. Father Gaitley, ordained to the priesthood in 2010, is director of the Association of Marian Helpers and a member of the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception. He has appeared several times on EWTN
ASHEVILLE — St. Joan of Arc Parish is having a church and school reunion from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 11, and from 2 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, in the church’s social hall. The church was started in 1927, and the school (the first parochial school in western North Carolina) operated from 1936 to 1980. For details, contact Jenny Evans at 828-665-6609 or visit the church’s Web site at home.catholicweb.com/ stjoanofarcasheville.
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catholicnewsherald.com | November 4, 2011
Aqui
estamos!
La Antorcha Guadalupana El Ministerio Hispano de la Diócesis de Charlotte invita a todos a que participemos en esta actividad de solidaridad hispana que llegará a Charlotte el 24 de noviembre. La antorcha estará en Newton el 25 de noviembre, en Mocksville el 27 y en Greensboro el 29 y 30 de noviembre. Con Cristo y Maria todo se puede!! Informes: Delmy Ayala al 336-4651571, o a los teléfonos 336-963-3704, 336-273-2343 o nino05@hotmail. com.
Encuentro Conyugal Diocesano 2011
Foto proporcionada por enedino aquino
El Diácono Enedino Aquino, Coordinador del Vicariato de Greensboro, trabaja apoyando y promoviendo actividades en la comunidad hispana desde hace más de diez años.
Vicaría de Greensboro carlos castañeda Catholic news herald-español
CHARLOTTE – Esta es la primera de una serie ocasional de entregas en la que estaremos conociendo más acerca de nuestra diócesis, su territorio, sus líderes y la forma que se organiza el Ministerio Hispano diocesano. La diócesis de Charlotte sirve a la parte occidental de Carolina del Norte, y cubre una extensión de más de 50 mil kilómetros cuadrados. Por la extensión del territorio que cubre, la diócesis se divide en 10 sectores, conocidos como vicariatos o vicarías. Son diez las vicarías que existen el la diócesis: Albemarle, Asheville, Boone, Gastonia, Greensboro, Hickory, Mecklenburg, Salisbury, Smoky Mountain y Winston-Salem. En cada uno de estos territorios, el Ministerio Hispano cuenta con un coordinador o delegado, quien regularmente lo representa y aglutina la información pertinente a cada uno de estos sectores. Hoy conoceremos al coordinador del Vicariato de Greensboro, el Diácono Enedino Aquino. Enedino Aquino, cariñosamente conocido como “Nino,” describe su propia vocación y
camino: “Lo mío fue más una seducción, un enamoramiento lento, porque al principio mi Dios me llamó como en un murmullo y fue despertando en mi la necesidad de servir a mis hermanos.” Y es que fue hace alrededor de 18 años cuando comenzó a involucrarse poco a poco en las cosas del Señor, primero con las actividades de su parroquia, San José, en Asheboro. “Como todo buen cristiano, asistía a la misa el domingo, en ese entonces éramos como treinta y tantos los que íbamos. Yo iba más por mi esposa, que era la que me empujaba, comencé a pasar la canasta, luego como lector. Después tuvimos más gente y pudimos ver las crecientes necesidades de la comunidad.” Pero el detonador fue su participación en el primer retiro para hombres, organizado hace ya 14 años, “Los organizadores me invitaron y Dios me fue jalando por ese lado. La inquietud nació, y ya no me sentía a gusto andando en la calle, hubo una mezcla de sentimientos y finalmente Dios tuvo la razón, dejé el fútbol y me fui involucrando cada vez más.” Aquino trabaja a tiempo completo en el vicariato de Greensboro, desde hace ya casi 15 años y nos define su trabajo en el área que atiende: “De 11 parroquias que corresponden
a la zona de Greensboro, ocho de ellas cuentan con Ministerio Hispano. Yo visito cada una de ellas al menos una vez al mes y me reúno con los líderes o grupos,” puntualizó Aquino. Y es que en realidad, la labor de los coordinadores se expande de diversas formas, sirviendo, acompañando, apoyando y promoviendo actividades e iniciativas de la comunidad. “Además, cada año buscamos promover actividades a nivel vicariato. Realizamos Retiros para Hombres, Mujeres, Jóvenes y Matrimonios, sirviendo así a más de 300-400 Católicos Hispanos cada año. La idea es que desde el vicariato, mi trabajo como coordinador de este conjunto de parroquias cubra sus necesidades pastorales y de evangelización.” En el caso de Aquino, él además cubre un ministerio clerical. “Como diácono, mi labor se ve potencializada. Al poder ejercer mi ministerio de la Palabra y el servicio, puedo aún llegar a cubrir espacios que como laico no podría,” acotó Aquino. “Sin embargo, es una tarea laical que siento que ayuda poderosamente y de forma crítica en aquellos lugares en los que los pastores no llegan o en los que los laicos debemos actuar,” finalizó Aquino.
El Ministerio Católico Hispano de la Diócesis de Charlotte invita al Encuentro Conyugal 2011, para parejas en unión libre, casadas por civil o por la Iglesia. Se llevará a cabo en la Iglesia La Sagrada Familia, en Clemmons, el sábado 19 de noviembre, de 8 a.m. a 10 p.m. El costo es de $30.00 por pareja. Informes con Marcos y Adarely al 336-491-2039, 336-273-2343 y nino05@hotmail.com.
Congreso Carismático Católico Diocesano El sábado 26 de noviembre se realizará el Primer Congreso Carismático Católico Diocesano, en el Cabarrus Arena & Events Center. Bajo el tema: “Renovados en el Espíritu Santo,” el evento empezará a las 8 a.m. y tendrá: predicación, servicio de sanación con el Santísimo Sacramento, alabanza y oración. La Misa de clausura es a las 5 p.m. El costo es de $10.00 por adulto y los menores de 15 años no pagan. Mayores informes con Blanca Palacios, al 704-706-3369, Carmelo Ambriz, al 704-507-5691, Jovel Montoya, al 336-561-6069 o al correo electrónico: bpalacios@ carolina.rr.com.
November 4, 2011 | catholicnewsherald.com
Nuestra
Comunidad La Cooperativa Latina de Crédito
Creada como una entidad financiera sin fines de lucro, La Cooperativa Latina de Crédito nace en el año 2000 bajo el modelo cooperativo, es decir, un modelo de negocio en el que los socios son los propietarios. Además de una amplia gama de servicios financieros que ofrece, la Cooperativa Latina también ofrece educación en los tópicos financieros, cumpliendo con sus fines de orientación y servicio a la comunidad. La Cooperativa cuenta a la fecha con más de 50,000 socios y 10 sucursales en todo el estado. Desde sus inicios, la Cooperativa enfocó sus prioridades en la comunidad hispana e inmigrante, ofreciendo un lugar seguro en el que las familias pudieran depositar sus ahorros, tener acceso a crédito, aprender a gestionar su dinero y acumular riqueza. Para cumplir con estos ojetivos y a través de todos estos años, la Cooperativa ha renovado tecnología y creado productos que buscan satisfacer las necesidades financieras específicas de la comunidad que sirve. Una de las características en la orientación comunitaria de la misión de la Cooperativa es impartir educación financiera, a través de un programa completamente gratuito de educación financiera para aprender a manejar mejor el dinero. Este curso está abierto a todo el que quiera participar. Entre los poroductos que ofrece la Cooperativa están los préstamos personales, préstamos para negocios, de automóviles, de casa y tarjetas de crédito a costos muy
razonables. La Cooperativa también concede préstamos a personas que no tienen historial de crédito tradicional, lo cual ayuda mucho justamente a establecer e iniciar esta historia de crédito y acceder a mayores oportunidades. El servicio que presta la Cooperativa es personalizado, multicultural y bilingüe, además de incluir la tecnología necesaria para que los socios puedan acceder a sus cuentas a través de internet, servicios móviles (celulares) y una red de 1,200 cajeros automáticos gratuitos (Cashpoints). Cualquier residente de Carolina del Norte puede usar los servicios de la Cooperativa, convirtiéndola en una opción muy interesante para aquellos que buscan una institucón financiera de confianza, de bajo costo y socialmente responsible con la comunidad (todos los depósitos de los socios se destinan a financiar préstamos dentro de la comunidad local). La Cooperativa se ha convertido en un modelo para muchas Cooperativas de Crédito y ha sido galardonada en varias ocasiones a nivel estatal, nacional e internacional. Para mayor información sobre los productos y servicios de la Cooperativa Latina, favor ponerse en contacto con ellos en cualquiera de sus agencias en Carolina del Norte: en Charlotte, a los teléfonos: 704-531-0201, 704553-0386. En Monroe, al teléfono: 704-226-1651, en Greensboro, al teléfono 336-370-9512, en Winston-Salem, al teléfono 336-784-0261 o visitando el website: www.latinoccu.org.
FOTO PROPORCIONADA POR MARIELLA BUSCAGLIA
Misa Solemne en honor al Señor de los Milagros La Hermandad del Señor de los Milagros de Charlotte durante la Misa solemne que se celebró en la Parroquia St. Mark, en Huntersville el pasado viernes 29 de octubre. La Hermandad cuenta con cerca de 500 miembros de distintas nacionalidades y la Procesión del Señor de los Milagros congrega alrededor de 1,500 fieles devotos de nuestra diócesis, cada año.
OUR PARISHESI
En
contacto
Envíenos sus noticias o anuncios y forme parte de esta sección Este espacio y sección es para promover y conectar a nuestra comunidad. Todos los comentarios y sugerencias son bienvenidas. Si desea escribirnos, dejar sus comentarios, sugerencias u opiniones, así como para enviar alguna noticia o promover algún evento de su parroquia o grupo, por favor contáctenos: Carlos Castañeda (cmcastaneda@
charlottediocese.org, 704-370-3375. Si desea participar escribiendo o formando parte del ministerio de comunicaciones, no dude en unirse! Contáctenos por email o visite: www. catholicnewsherald.com (Sección Español) e ingrese su información. Nosotros le contactaremos tan pronto como sea posible.
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catholicnewsherald.com | November 4, 2011 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD
Changes coming Some changes in wording at Mass that will come with the revised Roman Missal in English at Advent 2011 Part of Mass
Present Wording
Revised Wording
People’s response at the Greeting, Preface Dialogue, Sign of Peace and Concluding Rites
And also with you.
And with your spirit.
...I have sinned through my own fault...
...I have greatly sinned... through my fault, through my fault, through my most grievous fault...
Gloria
Glory to God in the highest, and peace to His people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory...
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to people of good will. We praise You, we bless You, we adore You, we glorify You, we give You thanks for Your great glory, Lord God, heavenly King, O God, almighty Father. ...
Nicene Creed
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is seen and unseen... ...one in being with the Father. Through Him all things were made. ...
I believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible. ... ...consubstantial with the Father; through Him all things were made. ...
Sanctus
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Holy, holy, holy Lord God of hosts. ...
Mystery of Faith (Memorial Acclamation, form A)
Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again.
We proclaim Your death, O Lord, and profess Your Resurrection until You come again.
Penitential Act (form A)
Revised Roman Missal binds Catholics across a 2,000-year history Dennis Sadowski Catholic News Service
WASHINGTON, D.C. — When the third edition of the English-language version of the Roman Missal is implemented at Advent, it will mark the continuing evolution of the Eucharistic liturgy that began in the earliest days of the Church. The most recent changes – which more closely reflect “Liturgiam Authenticam” (“The Authentic Liturgy”), the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments’ 2001 document on liturgical translations – are unlikely to be the last, liturgists agree. From Aramaic to Greek to Latin to vernacular language after the Second Vatican Council, the Mass has evolved over 2,000 years in an effort to help worshippers appreciate the mystery that is God. The Missal of Pius V appeared seven years after the Council of Trent concluded its work in 1563, implementing the council’s call for uniformity in liturgical books. Convened in response to Protestant disputes with the Church, the council met in 25 sessions in three periods beginning in 1545. By its conclusion the council codified the celebration of Mass and defined Church teaching on Scripture and tradition, original sin, justification, the sacraments and the veneration of saints. The council allowed religious orders that had their own liturgical rites in place for more than 200 years – among them the Dominicans and the Franciscans – to continue using their own missal. Those missals continue in use today with updated translations approved by the Vatican. In part, credit the development of the printing press for the missal’s introduction in the 16th century, said Father Richard Hilgartner, executive director of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Secretariat on Divine Worship. Until the late 16th century, holy books were reproduced by hand by monks, making widespread distribution of sacred texts impractical. But long before the first missal was promulgated, a desire for consistency in worship began to emerge. Some Mass prayers can be traced to the third century, said Rita Thiron, director of the Office of Worship in the Diocese of Lansing, Mich., citing the second Eucharistic Prayer, which dates to about 215. By the fourth century worship became more formalized because of a growing concern for orthodoxy, Thiron said. That
concern led to standardization of prayers and readings in various rituals. By the seventh and eighth centuries the sharing of prayer texts became more common, Father Hilgartner said. Sacramentaries also were assembled, the most notable being the Old Gelasian Sacramentary in the seventh and eighth centuries and the Gregorian Sacramentary in the late eighth century. In 785, Pope Hadrian I gave a copy of the Gregorian Sacramentary to Charlemagne, king of the Franks, who unified Western Europe thanks in part to expanding the Sacramentary’s use among faith communities across the continent. At the same time, Latin was becoming the language of the Church. Father Daniel Merz, associate director of the USCCB’s Secretariat of Divine Worship, explained that the use of Latin took several hundred years to emerge, beginning in the third century. By the 10th century it was widespread. “But even in Rome it’s interesting that the first several hundred years you can see there was this concern to have the language be in the language of the people,” he said. After the Council of Trent it would be more than four centuries before the Roman Mass saw significant changes. Even though several popes granted concessions to missionaries to allow Mass to be celebrated in local languages to aid in evangelization – including Mandarin in China in the early 14th century, Arabic for the Carmelites in Persia in 1624 and Iroquoian for the Jesuits in 1773 near modern-day Montreal – Mass changed little until Vatican II. The first document to emerge from Vatican II in 1963 was the Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy (“Sacrosanctum Consilium”), which called for “full, conscious and active participation” of all people in the liturgy. The missal reflecting those principles was approved in 1969 and translated into English by 1973 by the International Commission on English in the Liturgy, known as ICEL. It was slightly revised in 1975, with an English translation appearing in 1985. Some Vatican officials felt that version of the missal could be improved and set about working on still another translation. In 2001, the third translation was issued in Latin by Pope John Paul II. It incorporates the changes that will take effect at Advent. It took ICEL nearly a decade to translate the changes into English and gain Vatican approval.
November 4, 2011 | catholicnewsherald.com
catholic news heraldI
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Father Matthew Buettner
D
The Mass: a ‘pledge of future glory’
uring the Mass, following Communion, the “Prayer After Communion” completes the Communion Rite. Following the Communion Rite is a decidedly short and simple conclusion to the Mass called the “Concluding Rite,” consisting of relatively few parts.
Ite, Missa Est
The ritual of the Mass allows a time and a place for announcements that are to be given after the “Prayer After Communion.” There are two specifications for these announcements: they are to be brief and necessary. Then, the already familiar dialogue is repeated one last time between the priest and the faithful: “The Lord be with you.” “And with your spirit.” The celebrant then blesses the faithful with the customary sign of the cross and invocation of the Holy Trinity. He concludes the Mass in the same manner in which it was initiated; the prayer of the Mass, the highest form of prayer known to mankind, is now completed with the Trinitarian blessing. On solemn feasts and special occasions, there may be a more elaborate prayer over the people that is usually begun with the instruction by the deacon or celebrant, “Bow your heads and pray for God’s blessing.” One final exchange remains between the deacon, or if there is no deacon, the celebrant, and the faithful, known as the “Dismissal.” The deacon says, “Go forth, the Mass is ended,” or “Go and announce the Gospel of the Lord,” or “Go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your life,” or “Go in peace.” Interestingly, the “Ite Misa est” pronounced in the Latin version is relatively difficult to translate. Therefore, the revised English edition supplies these several attempts to arrive at the meaning. The faithful respond one last time, “Thanks be to God.” The dismissal, although very subtle and concise, holds great theological importance. It is the dismissal that gives the Mass its name: “the Mass” comes from the Latin word “missa,” meaning “sent” or “dismissed.” The faithful go to Mass, not merely as an escape from the world or as a diversion from one’s Christian responsibilities, but
rather that they might be sent back into the world, fortified by the grace of God. Having rendered to God the worship of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass and having received the fruits of redemption, the faithful can better accomplish the duties of their particular vocation in the midst of the world, to sanctify the home, the workplace, the school, the marketplace, etc. But before the celebrant and the faithful depart, the celebrant and deacon reverence the altar once again with a kiss and either bow to the altar or, if the tabernacle is in the sanctuary, they genuflect to the reserved Sacrament in the tabernacle. There may be a recessional hymn or instrumental postlude that accompanies the movement of the ministers from the sanctuary, but this is not necessary since the Mass is already ended. Now what? Immediately upon the completion of Mass, it has been recommended by the Church for centuries to remain for a time of personal thanksgiving. We are encouraged to remain quiet, kneel down and thank God for the outpouring of grace and mercy received in Holy Communion. St. José Maria Escrivá advises us, “Do not leave the Church almost immediately after receiving the sacrament. Surely you have nothing so important to attend to that you cannot give Our Lord 10 minutes to say thanks…. Love is paid for with love.” Perhaps you had the experience of watching the film “The Passion of the Christ” in the theater. What was the response of the audience to the powerful events of the Lord’s passion, crucifixion, death, and resurrection? Each of the four times I saw the film in the theater elicited the same response from the audience: silence, stillness, awe. The Mass is the same powerful, dramatic, bloody sacrifice re-presented in an unbloody manner. If we had the grace to better understand the mystery of the Mass, I dare suggest that we would also discover the same reaction in our souls: silence, stillness, adoration and thanksgiving.
A pledge of future glory
For the past several months we have examined and discussed the parts of the
Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. We have focused our attention on the basic structure, historical, theological and spiritual significance of each of these parts. However, a study such as the one we just completed that attempts to dissect its subject may leave the audience with the impression that the Mass is a loose compilation of dissimilar parts. Therefore, it is necessary to reiterate the essential coherence of the Holy Mass as one single act of worship, a reality that we mentioned from the beginning. From beginning to end, the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is the prayer of self-sacrifice and thanksgiving of the eternal Son offered to the eternal Father, in which we, as His Mystical Body, render to God worship, adoration, praise and thanksgiving. In each Mass, we unite ourselves with the worship of Jesus Christ, the High Priest and Victim, unto the Father in the Holy Spirit. By recalling the events of Christ’s passion, death and resurrection at every Mass, we are truly present at Calvary, when Christ presented Himself and offered the one perfect sacrifice of His Body and Blood to the Father, thereby offering the fruits of His sacrifice to His Bride, the Church. Consequently, the Mass provides us access to the saving mysteries of our faith: the events of the past are brought into the present that the benefits of our redemption may be applied to our souls. But what about the future? Indeed, there is still a further explanation that is necessary, a further aspect of the Mass not yet investigated: the eschatological reality, the final end toward which the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is directed. In his encyclical on the Holy Eucharist, entitled “Ecclesia de Eucharistia,” Blessed John Paul II discusses the eschatological reality of the Mass: “The Eucharist is a straining toward the goal, a foretaste of the fullness of joy promised by Christ (Cf. John 15:11); it is in some way the anticipation of heaven, the ‘pledge of future glory.’ In the Eucharist, everything speaks of confident waiting ‘in joyful hope for the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ.’” Not only does the Holy Eucharist anticipate future glory, but the Holy Father
explains that in the Mass, our bond of communion with the Church already in heaven is strengthened, that we actually participate in the heavenly liturgy: “The eschatological tension kindled by the Eucharist expresses and reinforces our communion with the Church in heaven…. This is an aspect of the Eucharist which merits greater attention: in celebrating the sacrifice of the Lamb, we are united to the heavenly ‘liturgy’ and become part of that great multitude which cries out: ‘Salvation belongs to our God who sits upon the throne, and to the Lamb!’ (Rev. 7:10). The Eucharist is truly a glimpse of heaven appearing on earth. It is a glorious ray of the heavenly Jerusalem which pierces the clouds of our history and lights up our journey.” Our participation in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass anticipates and prepares us for our eternal occupation in heaven, of offering praise, glory, adoration and worship to the Father with the Son in the Holy Spirit. And “as we await the blessed hope and the coming of Our Savior,” the advent of His promised return in glory, the Church orients herself to the east, the land of the rising sun, and faithfully continues to “Do this in memory of me.” The sublime mystery of the Mass is thus re-presented on every altar in every Catholic Church throughout time and history, so that we may unite ourselves to the mystery of divine love, which prompted St. Thomas Aquinas to exclaim: “O Sacred Banquet, in which Christ becomes our food, the memory of His passion is celebrated, the soul is filled with grace, and a pledge of future glory is given to us.” In the end, we have come to discover that “Understanding the Mystery of the Mass” is not merely an academic exercise, but a profound spiritual joy as we recognize the truth of the Swiss spiritual writer Adrienne von Speyr’s claim that, “The Holy Mass is both the means and the sign through which the Lord bequeaths us His love.” Father Matthew Buettner is the pastor of St. Dorothy Church in Lincolnton. This is excerpted from “Understanding the Mystery of the Mass – Revisited.” Previous columns are online at www.catholicnewsherald.com.
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iiiNovember 4, 2011 | catholicnewsherald.com
FROM TH
ANSWERING God’s ca
photos PROVIDED BY sharon kauth
Above: Sister Catherine Marie (far right) enters the chapel for her solemn profession of vows as a Dominican Sister of Hawthorne in Hawthorne, N.Y., Sept. 14. At right: The Kauth family is pictured on a visit to Rome in 2002. From left are: Brandi (Sister Catherine Marie), Sharon, Deacon Richard Kauth (now deceased), Sara and Father Matthew Kauth.
A family of vocations ‘Regular’ family answers call to ‘Come, follow Me’ SueAnn Howell Staff writer
DENVER — Ask any member of the Kauth family and they’ll tell you that they were a typical family during the years when the children were being born and raised. Dad worked, mom stayed at home, and the three children grew to adulthood without much fanfare. What’s remarkable is how God has called them, over the course of time, to “Come, follow Me.” The Kauths have responded to His call in deeply personal yet different ways, and they have been blessed with four vocations in the Church: a permanent deacon, a diocesan priest, a Dominican sister and a secular Carmelite. Deacon Richard Kauth, the head of the family who is now deceased, was ordained to the permanent diaconate in 1990 in the Diocese of Peoria, Ill. He served at St. Edward Church in Chillicothe, Ill., until moving to the Diocese of Charlotte in 1997. He served as deacon at Holy Spirit Church in Denver
until his death in 2005. His son, Father Matthew Kauth, now 37, is a diocesan priest for the Diocese of Charlotte who was ordained in 2000. Father Kauth recalls their early family life: “We were just ‘regular’ Catholics, to tell the truth. We were faithful to Mass, monthly confession, etc. Our family was strong. We always ate meals together. My father was not only at every game, but every practice. We engaged in all sports together, which taught me how to be a man.” Father Kauth recalls how his vocation unfolded: “The first inklings were an attraction to the Mass as a boy which matured after a hiatus, when I was a senior in high school and spent much time before the Blessed Sacrament.” He attributes the witness of good priests, coupled with the nagging question about the purpose of life and the desire to do something worthy with his life as catalysts in his vocation and his decision to pursue the priesthood. Sister Catherine Marie, 39, and the elder Kauth daughter, is now a fully professed Dominican sister living in Hawthorne, N.Y. She works with the terminally ill. She had a “glimmer” of a call to religious life in her teens, but it wasn’t until her 20s that she came to realize her vocation. She entered the Dominican Sisters of Hawthorne when she was 32. She echoes Father Kauth’s memory of their childhood. “I would say it was quite typical. We had our good times and our squabbles. Most of our childhood, Mom was a stay-at-home mom, which I am so grateful for. When there was a bad day at school, I knew she would be there. Dad worked hard for us, and one of the favorite memories I have of
him is when we were little he would th did this just before he left for work. Th had a strong father.” They also both recall the changes tha their dad became a deacon. “Actually I was bitter about his beco time for me and did not engage in the t said Father Kauth. “However, I could n thought was so strong was serving God when I saw my father doing it.” “I think it did tilt the focus of our fam the fisherman – and now he was involv our family began to change its focus, al Catherine Marie. For Sharon Kauth, wife and mother, shift in her own vocation. “When I had children and my husban was very clear. Now that I am widowed is not as clear. So it takes more prayer purpose is at this time of my life.”
VOCATION, SEE
HE COVER
November 4, 2011 | catholicnewsherald.comiii
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all Sister Bernadette of the Angels kneels before the grille in the Carmel of Jesus, Mary and Joseph in Elysburg, Pa., during her solemn profession of vows in June.
photo PROVIDED BY jean foreman
Cloistered Carmelite monastery is now home for St. Michael’s parishioner Sister Bernadette of the Angels makes final vows in Pa. SueAnn howell staff writer
hrow us up into the air and catch us. He his gave us a sense of security that we
at came about in their family when
oming a deacon because he had less things I loved with the same relish,” not but be impressed that the man I d. It ceased to be a ‘feminine’ thing
mily life. Before, Dad was the provider, ved in the Church. This was when lthough slowly at first,” added Sister the years have brought with them a
nd was still with me, my vocation d and my children are grown, the way and discernment to know what my
SEE page 24
ELYSBURG, Pa. — At 24, Sara Foreman knelt at the wrought-iron grille in the cloistered convent of the Carmel of Jesus, Mary and Joseph in Elysburg, Pa., and vowed to spend the rest of her earthly life behind that grille, living and praying as a Discalced Carmelite nun. Foreman, a former parishioner at St. Michael Church in Gastonia, took the religious name Sister Bernadette of the Angels and donned the black veil in addition to her Carmelite habit during her final profession of vows of poverty, chastity and obedience in June. Discalced means “shoeless” and refers to the fact that these nuns wear sandals, not shoes, as a sign of poverty and sacrifice. The cloistered life was Foreman’s joyful answer to God’s call that she began formally preparing for at 19, but also a whisper from the Holy Spirit that she’d heard earlier in her teens. Foreman “She began to discern for a religious life around the age of 15,” said Jean Foreman, her mother. “She decided that she wanted to become a Carmelite probably around 17 or 18. She read many books about the saints – especially St. Thérèse of Lisieux, St. Teresa of Avila, and St. Bernadette.” Foreman also spent many hours in Adoration at the St. Joseph Chapel at Belmont Abbey over the years. She enjoyed attending daily Mass, and she prayed the rosary often with her family. She was also part of a Catholic home school group where she was surrounded by friends who lived the same Catholic faith.
When it was time to explore religious life, her mother took Foreman to a monastery in Georgia. She recalls that her daughter seemed dissatisfied, desiring a more traditional monastery. Then they visited Nebraska, visiting the Carmel of Jesus, Mary and Joseph in Valparaiso. “We were completely surprised that the prioress (Mother Teresa of Jesus) asked her to enter the next day, which made Sara very happy,” Jean Foreman said. She added that the prioress did not know it at the time, but Foreman had a special devotion to St. Bernadette and to her guardian angel. In 2009, some of the Carmelites relocated from Valparaiso to the Diocese of Harrisburg, Pa., to found a new community. They had outgrown their monastery following an increase in vocations just like Foreman’s, a trend among young Catholic women that is being noticed across the nation. Sister Bernadette is now situated closer to her family, which still lives in the Diocese of Charlotte, yet she lives a strictly cloistered life, meaning that she never leaves the Carmel. They are able to visit her once a year, and she is allowed to write them one letter a month except during Lent and Advent. The Carmelite nuns attend daily Mass and pray both individually and communally throughout the day. Each day begins with the prayers of the Divine Office starting about 5 a.m. and ends around 10 or 10:30 p.m. Living this contemplative life, apart from the world, not only allows the nuns to concentrate almost exclusively on prayer, dedicating their entire lives to God, it enables them to offer up their sacrifice as reparation, a way to seek the salvation of souls. “Freed from noises and distractions, the Carmelite nun becomes more aware of the struggle of people today to know and love God. She then offers herself in prayer and sacrifice for the salvation of all. No radio, television, newspaper or Internet is permitted, in order to avoid distractions from their life of prayer and sacrifice. While walls and grilles separate them from the world, their hearts are not bound but, rather, radically freed to love God and neighbor,” said Bishop Kevin Rhoades of the Diocese of Harrisburg when the community was established in Elysburg. Reflecting on her daughter’s vocation, Jean Foreman said, “A traditional Carmelite nun is what she wanted to become, and the Lord blessed her.”
Our schools
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catholicnewsherald.com | November 4, 2011 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD
Land purchased for permanent site of Christ the King High School SueAnn Howell and Patricia Guilfoyle Catholic News Herald
CHARLOTTE — The Diocese of Charlotte and Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools have finalized the purchase of approximately 107 acres for the permanent location of Christ the King High School, diocesan officials announced Oct. 21. The site is located at Shiloh Church Road and Hwy. 73, just outside Huntersville in Cabarrus County. The site is on the north side of Highway 73 east of Shiloh Church Road, behind the Renaissance Square Shopping Center. The cost of the land deal was not announced. The transaction involved the purchase of multiple parcels of contiguous land from three separate property owners, and it was closed on Oct. 21. At the request of diocesan officials earlier this year, the land was annexed by the city of Kannapolis and rezoned to allow for a high school. The city will provide water and sewer service to the new school, according to the Huntersville Herald. The land purchase is the latest step forward by the diocese to open a high school in the fast-growing suburbs north of
Charlotte, as the demand for Catholic education increases. Christ the King is the second high school for MACS and the third overall in the diocesan schools system. The high school opened Aug. 24 in a temporary location in Mooresville, at 753 Oak Ridge Farm Hwy., adjacent to Curlin Commons. It is offering a freshman class in its initial year, with more than two dozen students initially enrolled. In future years, sophomore, junior and senior classes will be filled out. Diocesan officials hope to begin construction soon at the permanent location. Diocesan officials have previously said that they would like to open the permanent school in 1 1/2 to two years. “This is an exciting time for the mission of Catholic schools,” said Father Roger K. Arnsparger, vicar of education of the Diocese of Charlotte. “Excitement on campus is palpable,” added Principal Dan Dolan. “When the students learned of the news, there was a huge cheer. We are all thrilled at the prospect of a permanent home for Christ the King’s growing family. Go Crusaders!” To learn more about Christ the King High School, go online to www.christthekinghs.org.
photo courtesy of mecklenburg area catholic schools
This is an aerial shot of the 107 acres that has been purchased by the Diocese of Charlotte for the permanent location for Christ the King High School north of Charlotte near the intersection of Highway 73 and Shiloh Church Road.
Belmont Abbey grad inspires next generation of Catholics at CCHS SueAnn Howell Staff writer
CHARLOTTE — Patrick Jacobeen didn’t always want to be a teacher. He earned a bachelor’s degree in theology from Belmont Abbey College and states that it really was after being affected so profoundly by some of his professors there that he felt drawn to his current career path. He grew up in the Diocese of Arlington in northern Virginia in a vibrant, Catholic family where faith has always been the center – a fact which helps him live what he teaches as a freshman and sophomore high school theology teacher at Charlotte Catholic High School. “The subject matter I am teaching naturally holds me accountable to living my faith,” says Jacobeen. “I must live what I am teaching my students and be an example of it to the best of my ability. The most important way I practice my faith on the job is by striving for the students to no longer see me but Christ who works in me… the goal of any Christian. It is a matter of being faithful to daily prayer and the sacraments… encouraging, and even more so inspiring the students to do likewise.” Jacobeen, who attended Belmont Abbey College on the Honors Institute Fellowship and was in the inaugural class for that fellowship, was also a member of the Felix Hintemeyer Program, the school’s Catholic Leadership program. How does he think it’s going so far?
“So far, so good!” he says. “Teachers truly live out a specific and demanding calling. I think that it is much more than a simple occupation taken on for financial reasons. Rather, it is the mission of a teacher especially in a Catholic school to be a teacher, a witness in his every action. It is one thing to impart knowledge to students in the classroom, but what is really important is that what is taught touches the students’ hearts, so that they truly believe it, and believe it to a degree that it brings about action, indeed, a way of life,” he says. “This is not accomplished first and foremost by the presentation of material in the classroom but rather by being a living example to the students and presenting them with stories of the saints who have gone before us as inspiration to greatness. Each student, each soul is called to greatness by virtue of their baptism.” Jacobeen also works in the Campus Ministry office for the Diocese of Charlotte. “Working in Campus Ministry allows me the opportunity to be involved with the students in many ways outside of the classroom. I think these extracurricular activities are an awesome opportunity to build relationships with the students and to help them navigate life according to the Gospel of Christ in whatever way I can help.” His philosophy on how to engage students more in their Catholic faith: “Every opportunity I am given, I try to build within the students a right reverence, attitude and understanding of the Eucharist,
photo provided by patrick jacobeen
Charlotte Catholic High School teacher and diocesan Campus Ministry team member Patrick Jacobeen is pictured at the Vatican in Rome in 2008. He was there on an International Leadership Semester at Regina Apostolorum University. If your school or youth group would like Jacobeen to come speak to your group, please contact him at pbjacobeen@charlottediocese.org. for the Eucharist is the source and summit of our Catholic faith. I try to take after our Holy Father’s lead (albeit much more insignificantly) by beginning with the
Eucharist and the Liturgy in educating the students in their Catholic faith and leading them to a friendship with their brother, captain and king, Jesus Christ.”
November 4, 2011 | catholicnewsherald.com
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In Brief
officers and class representatives for the current school year. Father Brian Cook, pastor of St. Leo Church, offered a special blessing over them Sept. 16 for a successful, faith-filled year as leaders of the school. Elected were: Chloe Wall, president; Rebecca Lassiter, vice president; Alex Pinder; treasurer; Brett Knorr, marshal; Jeb Wall, secretary; and Olivia Mangus, chaplain. Class representatives are: Lauren Andrysick and Earl Bonoan, eighth grade; Val Schroeder and Todd Holbrook, seventh grade; Gina Dissosway and Alex Facer, sixth grade; Haylie Paulin and Leo Amodia, fifth grade; Sarah Malone and Jack Holbrook, fourth grade; and Abby Egnatz and Conner Allen, third grade. — Donna Birkel
Special visitor comes to CCHS classes
Printers donated to help St. Michael School
CHARLOTTE — Ryan Varga, a graduate student of the North Carolina State College of Textiles, visited chemistry and physics classes at
GASTONIA — All Saints Church Men’s Club in Lake Wylie, S.C., was investigating a way to help Catholic education. Roger Thibodeau, St. Michael School’s information technology manager and a member of the parish club, mentioned that the school had recently updated every computer in the school to Windows 7 and Office 2010 and printers were needed to handle the newer system. Some of the club members had helped Thibodeau in the installation of the software updates. The club then donated five Hewlett-Packard laser printers to the school. Pictured are (from left): Joe Puceta, principal of St. Michael School, with Men’s Club members Steve Obrien, Thibodeau and Bob Breslin. — Pat Burr
St. Leo names student council members WINSTON-SALEM — St. Leo School in WinstonSalem recently installed its student council
Charlotte Catholic High School Oct. 28, offering information on the use of textiles in everyday life, showing examples of cutting-edge technology, and performing chemistry demonstrations. The program ended with information on the degree programs, exciting internships and high-level career paths in this industry. The program extends CCHS’s involvement in celebrating National Chemistry Week while meeting goals in the 21st Century Learning and STEM programs, which encourage students to follow careers in science, math and engineering. — Karen Belciglio
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catholicnewsherald.com | November 4, 2011 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD
Dutch sister’s online vocation efforts bearing fruit CNA/EWTN News
ROME — Divine Heart of Jesus Sister Elvira Maria de Witt is an opera singer turned nun who has found a new way to win vocations to the religious life – by going online. “The Netherlands had a lot of missionaries. I didn’t come into this congregation, give up my whole career as a singer – and I was really good – to let it die. Come on Jesus!” the feisty, young Dutch religious sister told CNA while visiting Rome. “But I asked myself, where should I find new people?” So, after considering going to bars and soccer games to find young people but concluding “I don’t think I can go there,” she came up with her bold broadband plan. From a slow start in 2001, she now receives up to 300 e-mails a week, and they are mostly from the young. “Some questions about the faith or that they don’t feel well or are depressed,” she explained. Others are from girls who are pregnant and have nowhere else to turn for advice. Still more are young people wanting to know about the Catholic faith and religious life – most of whom are not Catholic themselves. “There are questions about how to pray better or how to pray the rosary, or questions like: How do I go to confession?
What should I say and where can I find somebody?” Sister Elvira is the novice mistress at the Carmelite Sisters of the Divine Heart of Jesus convent in the southern Dutch city of Maastricht. She believes that her online presence – now extended to Facebook and a blog – is giving answers that are not readily available elsewhere in her country. “The Netherlands is a good example of how things shouldn’t work: there is no catechism in the Catholic schools, there are no Catholic schools – only in name – but inside you see nothing,” she said. Despite those obstacles, the religious vocations keep coming – just not from Catholic households. In fact, the convent’s two latest recruits are not even baptized. “So, there is the whole process of catechism, of telling them about the Catholic faith, asking if it’s what they want, being baptized and confirmed,” Sister Elvira explained. After joining the Church, the sisters ask that they live their faith for “a couple of years or so” before they enter the convent. Not that such things worry her, given that she herself never really went to church until she was 24 when, in her photo courtesy of Catholic News Agency words, “I found Jesus!” Divine Heart of Jesus Sister Elvira Maria de Witt reaches out to people “I was a singer, singing in Berlin and Amsterdam in the through Facebook, her convent’s website, and more to teach the Catholic faith big halls, then Jesus came and I followed Him.” and answer questions.
Celebrate the Holidays WINGATE UNIVERSITY
“Experience exceptional artistry in an intimate setting.” Now in its second season, Gaudium Musicae showcases the musical gifts of the area’s outstanding artists set in the ne acoustics of the new St. Ann Catholic Church. You can experience both the beauty of the sound and the intimate connection between artist and instrument. Come enjoy the music and stay for a reception to meet and mingle with the artists and your fellow listeners. Our opening concert features Carolina Chamber Players, a unique string quartet made up of full-time professional musicians from the Charlotte Symphony: Emily Chatham, Susan Blumberg, Dorothy Cole and Viara Stefanova.
Sunday Nov. 13, 4:00 pm
The PriesTs in ConCerT Thurs, Dec 1 • 7:30pm
Carolina Chamber Players String Quartet
at St. Ann Catholic Church 3635 Park Road, Charlotte 28209
First US Tour! Exclusive Carolinas Date!
Tickets: www.StAnnCharlotte.org
These remarkable Irish priests create a memorable evening of awe inspiring music as well as a celebration of faith, tolerance, love and the power of the human spirit.
Adults: $12 / Students: $8 Children 12 and under FREE
704-233-8300 • www.battecenter.org
4-concert subscription: $40 / $25 Call 704-523-4641 ext. 221
November 4, 2011 | catholicnewsherald.com
catholic news heraldI
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In theaters taken up residence in the house he shares with his new wife and two stepdaughters. Occult theme, brief harsh violence, drug use, some nongraphic marital lovemaking, several sexual references, considerable crude language. CNS: L (limited adult audience), MPAA: R
‘Puss in Boots’ Screenwriter Tom Wheeler’s exceptionally intelligent and energetic script for this 3-D animated ‘Shrek’ spinoff has the title character, accompanied by his childhood friend Humpty Dumpty, and newfound feline love interest, going in quest of the goose that lays golden eggs. CNS: A-I (general patronage), MPAA: PG
‘The Mighty Macs’
‘The Rum Diary’
Feel-good sports drama, based on the true story of women’s basketball coach Cathy Rush. In 1972, at age 23, Rush took a job at Pennsylvania’s Immaculata College (now University) and built its team from scratch, eventually leading the ‘Macs’ to the national championship. CNS: A-I (general patronage), MPAA: G
Smoke, drink, be hung over, repeat is the lusty refrain of this film memoir, set in 1960 Puerto Rico and based on gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson’s roman à clef about his early years in the business. Writer-director Bruce Robinson and star Johnny Depp, who plays Thompson’s alter ego, don’t try to glamorize the abundant substance abuse. Implied premarital sexual encounters, brief partial female nudity, and drug and abusive alcohol use. CNS: L (limited adult audience), MPAA: R
‘Johnny English Reborn’ Elaborately constructed spy spoof, and cleanedup sequel to the 2003 comedy ‘Johnny English,’ in which Rowan Atkinson as the titular secret agent overcomes severe odds to discover who was responsible for the assassination of the president of Mozambique. CNS: A-II (adults and adolescents), MPAA: PG
‘Paranormal Activity 3’ In 1988 California, a videographer records the ominous doings of a malevolent spirit that has
‘The Three Musketeers’ Alexandre Dumas’ classic costume epic of 17th-century swordsmanship, French patriotism and political treachery is updated with 3-D, slowmotion fighting and two anachronistic airships, one of which has a flamethrower. Probably acceptable for mature adolescents. CNS: A-III (adults), MPAA: PG-13
On TV n Friday, Nov. 4, 10 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 5, 2 p.m. (EWTN) “Eldest Daughter Of The Churches: Part 3.” The third installment of the four-part mini-series that chronicles the history of Catholicism in France. n Sunday, Nov. 13, 10-11 p.m. (EWTN) “The New Translation of the Roman Missal, Part Two.” n Monday, Nov. 14, 9 a.m.-noon (EWTN) “USCCB Fall General Assembly.” The annual fall general assembly of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, broadcast live. (See related story on page 18.) n Tuesday, Nov. 15, 9-11 p.m. (History) “Engineering Evil.” Drawing on archives in Eastern Europe and at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C., this special traces the evolution of the Holocaust from the early days of persecution in Nazi Germany to the final days of wanton annihilation.
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Our nation 18
charlottediocese.org/catholicnews | November 4, 2011 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD
Bishops’ agenda more devoted to internal matters than to societal ills Nancy Frazier O’Brien Catholic News Service
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. bishops’ fall general assembly in Baltimore will be shorter than usual and focus primarily on the inner workings of the Church than on larger societal issues. The Nov. 14-16 meeting of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, originally scheduled to last until Nov. 17, will include a discussion on religious liberty that could touch on a wide range of topics. But the main business of the gathering will be on liturgical, financial and organizational matters. Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan of New York, elected to head the USCCB for a three-year term last November, will open the meeting with his first presidential address. If tradition holds, the talk will present a “state of the U.S. Church” message and a look at the challenges Archbishop Dolan foresees for the coming year. It could also be the first USCCB meeting for Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, recently appointed as the new apostolic nuncio to the U.S., who has said he hoped to arrive in the U.S. in time for the assembly. Looking back on one of their biggest challenges of the past 18 months, the bishops will vote on whether to make their former Task Force on Health Care into a permanent Subcommittee on Health Care Issues under the Committee on Doctrine. The subcommittee would address such issues as “guidance in implementing the bishops’ ‘Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services,’ non-Catholic hospitals in Catholic health care systems, for-profit Catholic health care, canonical status of Catholic health care facilities, conscience protection and health care reform,” according to a USCCB news release. Members of the subcommittee would represent the committees on doctrine, canon law and Church governance, prolife activities, and domestic justice and human development and could include other bishops or consultants, the release said.
Also up for a vote at the meeting is a resolution to support yearly voluntary financial reporting by each diocesan bishop in the U.S. to the archbishop who heads his ecclesiastical province. Several liturgical matters are scheduled to come before the bishops for a vote. They will decide whether to include two new optional memorials, for Blessed Marianne Cope and Blessed John Paul II, in the proper of saints calendar for the U.S. and whether to approve a new translation of the Rite for Blessing the Oil of Catechumens and the Oil of the Sick, and for Consecrating the Chrism. The Jan. 23 feast day for Mother Marianne, who was beatified in May 2005, is already observed as an optional memorial in the Diocese of Syracuse, N.Y., where she entered religious life, and the Diocese of Honolulu, where she served for many years caring for those afflicted with leprosy. Pope John Paul’s Oct. 22 feast day would CNS | Theresa Laurence, Tennessee Register also become an optional memorial on the U.S. Dominican Sister Mary Diana Dreger talks with patient Augustina McKlean during a liturgical calendar if approved at the meeting. follow-up visit at St. Thomas Family Health Center South in Nashville, Tenn., last month. Each of the liturgical items requires a twoThe U.S. bishops cite Catholic health care and conscience protections as among their thirds vote of the Latin Church members of chief concerns, and at their annual meeting they will vote on whether to make their the USCCB, followed by confirmation by the former Task Force on Health Care into a permanent subcommittee to address such Vatican Congregation for Divine Worship and issues as “guidance in implementing the bishops’ ‘Ethical and Religious Directives for the Sacraments. The congregation has already Catholic Health Care Services,’ non-Catholic hospitals in Catholic health care systems, approved liturgical texts in English and Spanish for-profit Catholic health care, canonical status of Catholic health care facilities, for each of the optional memorials. conscience protection and health care reform,” according to a USCCB news release. Also on the agenda are reports including: n An update by Cardinal Donald W. Wuerl of healing initiative. Washington, D.C., on the process of incorporating Anglican The bishops also will vote on the 2012 conference budget groups into the U.S. Catholic Church under Pope Benedict and elect a new secretary-elect, chairmen-elect of five XVI’s 2009 apostolic constitution “Anglicanorum coetibus.” committees, board members of Catholic Relief Services and n Information from Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo of a chairman for the Committee on International Justice and Galveston-Houston, chairman of the Committee on Pro-Life Peace. Activities, on the work of Project Rachel, a post-abortion
November 4, 2011 | charlottediocese.org/catholicnews
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In Brief ‘Ad limina’: US bishops set to begin visits to Rome VATICAN CITY — U.S. bishops are preparing to make their “ad limina” visits to the Vatican, an intense series of encounters that will bring many of them face-to-face with Pope Benedict XVI for the first time. Beginning in early November and extending through much of next year, the visits will constitute the most comprehensive assessment of Church life in the U.S. since the German pope was elected in 2005. The visits also give Pope Benedict a platform for commentary, and Vatican sources say the theme of papal talks to the bishops will be “new evangelization” in U.S. society. The approximately 200 heads of U.S. dioceses, some accompanied by auxiliary bishops, will arrive in Rome in 15 regional groups, and each will bring a “Report on the State of the Diocese” that will serve as the basis for discussions. Pope Benedict has lately adopted a modified format, meeting with 7-10 bishops at a time instead of individual encounters. U.S. bishops can expect small group discussions lasting about 45 minutes to an hour, featuring a relatively unstructured give-and-take with the pontiff.
Bishop addresses House panel on ‘grave threats to religious liberty’ WASHINGTON, D.C. — Recent “grave threats to religious liberty” serve as “grim validations” of the U.S. bishops’ decision last June to create a special committee to address those issues, Bishop William E. Lori of Bridgeport, Conn., told a House subcommittee Oct. 26. Bishop Lori,
the new chairman of the bishops’ new Ad Hoc Committee for Religious Liberty, said the Bill of Rights and the Declaration of Independence require government “to acknowledge and protect religious liberty as fundamental, no matter the moral and political trends of the moment.” But in recent days, he said, “the bishops of the United States have watched with increasing alarm as this great national legacy of religious liberty, so profoundly in harmony with our own teachings, has been subject to ever more frequent assault and ever more rapid erosion.” In written testimony before the House Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on the Constitution, Bishop Lori called for “corrective action by Congress” to address six areas of particular concern: Regulations issued by the Department of Health and Human Services in August that would mandate coverage of contraception and sterilization in most private health insurance plans; a new requirement by HHS that would require the bishops’ Migration and Refugee Services to agree to provide the “full range” of reproductive services, including abortion and contraception, to human trafficking victims and unaccompanied refugee minors; the U.S. Agency for International Development’s requirement that Catholic Relief Services and other contractors include condom distribution in their HIV prevention activities and provide contraception in a range of international relief and development programs; the Department of Justice’s actions to mischaracterize the federal Defense of Marriage Act, which states that marriage is the union of a man and a woman, as an act of bigotry and to actively attack its constitutionality; the Justice Department’s efforts to undermine the “ministerial exception” that exempts religious institutions from some civil laws when it comes to hiring and firing; and state actions on same-sex marriage that have resulted in Catholic Charities agencies in Illinois being “driven out of the adoption and foster care business” and some county clerks in New York state facing legal action for refusing to participate in same-sex unions.
Cardinal urges seminarians to look to Blessed John Paul WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Archdiocese of Washington marked the first feast day of Blessed John Paul II in a special way, as Cardinal Donald W. Wuerl dedicated the archdiocese’s new Blessed John Paul II Seminary in Washington, D.C., Oct. 22 with a Mass in the seminary’s chapel. Cardinal
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Wuerl prayed that God will “bless this house and all who study here so that the vision, the dream and the legacy of Blessed John Paul II will long continue at the service of God’s holy Church.” The first group of 20 seminarians now call Blessed John Paul II Seminary home, and take classes at the nearby Catholic University of America. — Catholic News Service
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In Brief Pope calls for help to migrants VATICAN CITY — Christians need to offer migrants special care, ranging from prayer and aid to policies upholding immigrants’ rights and dignity, Pope Benedict XVI said. Modern migration represents “an unprecedented mingling of individuals and peoples, with new problems not only from the human standpoint but also from ethical, religious and spiritual ones,” he said. His comments were in a message on the theme of “Migrations and New Evangelization” for the World Day for Migrants and Refugees Jan. 15, 2012. In the U.S., National Migration Week will be Jan. 9-14.
Vatican report calls for global power to regulate markets VATICAN CITY — A Vatican document called for the gradual creation of a world political authority with broad powers to regulate financial markets and rein in the “inequalities and distortions of capitalist development.” It said the current global financial crisis has revealed “selfishness, collective greed and the hoarding of goods on a great scale.” A supranational authority, it said, is needed to place the common good at the center of international economic activity. The report by the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, “Toward Reforming the International Financial and Monetary Systems in the Context of Global Public Authority,” cited papal teachings over the past 40 years on the need for a universal public authority to transcend national interests. — Catholic News Service
Believers must oppose violence to promote peace, true faith, pope says Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service
ASSISI, Italy — Taking 300 religious leaders with him on pilgrimage to Assisi, Pope Benedict XVI said people who are suspicious of religion cannot be blamed for questioning God’s existence when they see believers use religion to justify violence. “All their struggling and questioning is, in part, an appeal to believers to purify their faith so that God, the true God, becomes accessible,” the pope said Oct. 27 during an interfaith gathering in the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels. Marking the 25th anniversary of the first Assisi interfaith gathering for peace, hosted by Blessed John Paul II in 1986, Pope Benedict brought together the religious leaders and – for the first time – four philosophers who describe themselves as humanists or seekers who do not identify with any single religion. Pope Benedict and his guests gathered at the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels for the morning event focused on “testimonies for peace.” The pope condemned the use of religion to excuse violence and the use of violence to impose a religion, as well as the growing violence resulting from “the loss of humanity” that comes from denying the existence of God and of objective moral standards. “As a Christian, I want to say at this point: Yes, it is true, in the course of history, force has also been used in the name of the
Christian faith. We acknowledge it with great shame,” he said. Christian leaders, like all religious leaders, he said, must work constantly to help their followers purify their faith and be “an instrument of God’s peace in the world, despite the fallibility of humans.” But a lack of religion is not the answer to world peace, he said. The Nazi death camps clearly proved that “the denial of God corrupts man, robs him of his criteria (for judging right and wrong) and leads him to violence,” the pope said. On the other hand, he said, many CNS nonbelievers are also “pilgrims of Representatives of other religions gather around Pope Benedict XVI truth, pilgrims of peace.” as he prays at the tomb of St. Francis in the crypt of the basilica “These people are seeking the that bears his name in Assisi, Italy, Oct. 27. The pope visited the truth, they are seeking the true tomb at the end of the interfaith meeting for peace. Pictured God, whose image is frequently second from left, kneeling in front, is Anglican Archbishop Rowan concealed in the religions because Williams of Canterbury. Third from right, standing, is Ecumenical of the ways in which they are often Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople. practiced. Their inability to find Tveit, a Lutheran minister and secretaryGod is partly the responsibility of believers general of the World Council of Churches; with a limited or even falsified image of Shrivatsa Goswami, a Hindu representative God,” he said. “They challenge the followers from India; and Wande Abimbola, president of religions not to consider God as their own of a Nigerian institute that promotes the property, as if He belonged to them, in such study of the culture and traditional religion a way that they feel vindicated in using force of the Yoruba people. against others.” Later in the day, following thousands of Those joining the pope at the event young people who walked up to the Basilica included Orthodox Ecumenical Patriarch of St. Francis, the religious leaders gathered Bartholomew of Constantinople; Anglican in the square in front of the church’s lower Archbishop Rowan Williams of Canterbury; level and renewed their commitments to Rabbi David Rosen, representing the chief peace. rabbinate of Israel; the Rev. Olav Fykse
November 4, 2011 | catholicnewsherald.com
Pope proclaims three new saints, calls them models of Christian charity John Thavis Catholic News Service
VATICAN CITY — Pope Benedict XVI proclaimed three saints and said their lives showed that true faith is charity in action. “These three new saints allowed themselves to be transformed by divine charity,” the pope said at a canonization Mass in St. Peter’s Square Oct. 23. In different situations and with different gifts, they loved the Lord with all their heart and they loved their neighbor as themselves, in such a way as to become models for all believers.” All three founded religious orders in the 19th century, working in missionary areas and on behalf of society’s disadvantaged in Europe. The canonizations took place on World Mission Sunday, and the pope said their witness showed that love is at the center of the missionary task. The new saints are: n St. Guido Maria Conforti, an Italian who founded the Xaverian Foreign Missionary Society, dedicated to the sole purpose of evangelizing non-Christians. He sent missionaries to China in 1899 and traveled there in 1928 to visit the order’s communities. Plagued by ill health, he also served as a bishop in Italy for many years, making religious instruction the priority of his ministry and establishing schools of Christian doctrine Conforti in all parishes.
n St. Louis Guanella, the Italian founder the Servants of Charity, the Daughters of St. Mary of Providence, and the Confraternity of St. Joseph, whose members pledge to pray for the sick and dying. Having worked with young women in northern Italy, he came to Rome and founded an association of prayer for the dying. In 1912, at the age of 70, he traveled Guanella to the U.S. to work among Italian immigrants in North America. Pope Benedict called him a “prophet and apostle of charity.” n St. Bonifacia Rodriguez Castro, a Spanish cordmaker who gathered working women for spiritual encounters in her house-shop. The group became the Servants of St. Joseph, a congregation dedicated to providing an education to poor women and protecting them in the workplace. Her religious did not wear habits and they worked side by side with laywomen in the shop, practices that aroused the resentment of the local Castro clergy. Opposed by the bishop, she was removed as superior of the community and left in humiliation; she opened a new foundation in Zamora, where she was welcomed by the bishop. Only in 1941 was she recognized as the foundress of her congregation.
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‘Within the community of believers there can never be room for a poverty that denies anyone what is needed for a dignified life.’ — Pope Benedict XVI
Rev. Monsignor Mauricio W. West
“Deus Caritas Est,” 20
Fight poverty in America; defend human dignity D
ear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, For more than 40 years, the Catholic Campaign for Human Development has stood with poor and low-income people, helping them create permanent solutions to poverty by funding a broad range of anti-poverty programs and economic development initiatives. Catholics across our country are part of this fight against poverty through the donations they offer in the annual CCHD collection, which will be held in our diocese on the weekend of Nov. 19 and 20. CCHD relies on the annual parish collection to fund anti-poverty programs in communities across the country. The major portion of the CCHD collection is used by the national office of CCHD to
support anti-poverty projects across the country. The remainder stays here in our diocese to fund grants that assist people in poverty and raise our awareness of poverty. CCHD grants have made a difference in our diocese. This past spring, for example, local CCHD grants totaling $38,574 helped families facing foreclosure, assisted pregnant mothers with needed services, and funded low-income housing and job development initiatives. Here in North Carolina, the poverty rate has reached 16.2 percent and the number of children facing food insecurity is more than 27 percent. The statistics can mask the true gravity of the situation, that more than 46 million people in our nation and more than
1.5 million people in our state are living in poverty, according to 2010 U.S. Census data. Contemplating the extent of this economic pain can be numbing, yet the real pain felt by our brothers and sisters in need ought to be a spur to action. We are challenged to respond in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in need, … we must respond in solidarity, for the love of the poor is part of our Church’s constant tradition (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2444). Please remember those who are poor in your daily prayers and consider how you might more actively enter into solidarity with their daily struggle to make ends meet. Perhaps your church has an outreach
program or a food pantry that needs your help … or perhaps you can volunteer with one of Catholic Social Services’ food pantries in Asheville, Charlotte or Winston-Salem. Please also consider making a generous donation in the upcoming CCHD collection. Let us pray that during these difficult economic times, we will commit ourselves ever more forcefully to the promotion of human dignity, especially among the poor and the vulnerable. May God bless you for your generosity. Monsignor Mauricio W. West is the vicar general and chancellor of the Diocese of Charlotte.
Local CCHD grants support good works throughout diocese Joseph Purello Special to the Catholic News Herald
CHARLOTTE — This year, local Catholic Campaign for Human Development grants were awarded to 12 non-profit organizations. Funds for these grants come from the annual CCHD parish collection that takes place the weekend before Thanksgiving Day. A portion of the collection stays in our diocese to fund grants such as the $4,750 grant awarded to Hinton Rural Life Center in Hayesville, in far western North Carolina. That grant helped bring Internet connectivity to several buildings on this faith-based non-profit’s rural campus. HRLC can now expand its services to low-income families seeking tax preparation assistance, struggling to prevent home foreclosure, and participating in its Mutual Self-Help Housing Program. These activities
require secure and reliable Internet connectivity. Local CCHD grants go through a rigorous screening process. Grant applicants must submit the completed application by the Feb. 15 deadline and indicate by signature that their activities are in line with Catholic moral and social teaching, as outlined by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. A member of the six-person diocesan CCHD Advisory Committee also conducts a site inspection of the grant applicant organization, interviews lead staff, and confirms the organization’s conformity with grant eligibility criteria and guidelines. Several CCHD grant recipients are diocesan parishes involved in community outreach projects. For example, last year St. Peter Church in Charlotte received a $3,000 CCHD grant to support its mentoring work with Irwin Avenue Elementary School, a school
with a significant number of students from low-income households. This year, St. Luke Church received a $3,700 grant to support its partnership with Thomasboro Elementary School, which brings numerous parish volunteer tutors and mentors to the school. (Editor’s note: A story about this partnership appeared in the Oct. 21 edition of the Catholic News Herald, found online at www. catholicnewsherald.com). Other grants this year funded employment training, English as a Second Language classes, medical care for the indigent, pregnancy support services, low-income housing aid, and financial and consumer credit counseling. Regardless of the activity funded, what links all the activities of these grants are their goals of fighting poverty and defending human dignity. Joseph Purello leads the Office of Justice and Peace for Catholic Social Services in the Diocese of Charlotte.
Most-read stories on the web
n In October, 1,339 page titles on www. catholicnewsherald.com were viewed a total of 10,024 times. The top four local headlines were:
n Lawsuit filed against Charlotte diocese over abuse claims involving Father Kelleher.........194
n Diocese files response in civil lawsuit involving Father Farwell abuse allegation..........................96
n Ordination, installation of new bishop fills Savannah cathedral.............................................190
n Busy moms are also witnesses for the dignity of human life........................................................... 83
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Photo provided by Joseph Purello
A portion of the annual Catholic Campaign for Human Development collection stays in our diocese. It funds such things as the $4,750 grant awarded to Hinton Rural Life Center in Hayesville, which helped bring Internet connectivity to several buildings on this faith-based non-profit’s rural campus. Above, HRLC Executive Director Jacqueline Gottlieb accepts the CCHD grant check from Joseph Purello, from Catholic Social Services’ Office of Justice and Peace, in front of the Young Commons Building, one of the buildings upgraded using CCHD grant funds.
Thanksgiving Day, as its name states, is a day to give thanks to God for the blessings we and our families and friends have received. This year Thanksgiving Day falls on Thursday, Nov. 24.
This month we’re asking readers:
Are you planning on attending Mass on Thanksgiving Day? n Yes
n No
Go online to www.catholicnewsherald.com to respond.
November 4, 2011 | catholicnewsherald.com
Louie Verrecchio
Peggy Bowes
The scoop on Holy Mass A
couple of weeks ago a family friend (we’ll call him John) took me by surprise with an unexpected question, “Do you mind if I go to church with you on Sunday?” Mind? Are you kidding me, I thought. I was thrilled! Then came the next question; one that was entirely predictable but ended up being far more difficult to answer. “What time are we going?” “Ummm...” I hemmed and hawed. “I’m not sure. Let me get back to you.” Yes, I know, it sounds like I lost my mind, but once I tell you a little bit about my friend (who I suspect will sound a lot like someone you know) my reaction will make more sense. John is humble and simple and he’s sincerely searching for God – a great combination of traits that gives me real confidence that he will one day be “fully incorporated in the society of the Church,” to borrow a phrase from the Vatican Council Fathers (“Lumen Gentium,” 14). Even though he was baptized in the Catholic Church as an infant, this was the extent of John’s sacramental life. Apart from his grandmother taking him to Mass on very rare occasions as a child, he has had very little exposure to Holy Mass. Searching as he is, John has spent time in a number of different Protestant settings over the years, but none of them fully satisfied. Now here he is asking if he can join me for Sunday Mass, and I have a dilemma on my hands. My mind immediately began rifling through the possibilities to determine which particular liturgy, within a reasonable geographic radius, might best fit John’s needs. Sure, there’s only one Roman rite celebrated in two forms: Ordinary and Extraordinary. But let’s be honest, that’s just on paper. In the real world, the Ordinary Form comes in more flavors than Baskin Robbins. Here are just some of the choices at my disposal: The 7:30 a.m. at a nearby parish. Beautiful, traditional church building: No music. No singing. No nonsense. (Well, not much.) A holy and reverent pastor, but also a regular visiting priest whose homilies tend to set up false dichotomies between social justice and other matters of doctrine. During the Prayer of the Faithful the names of more than 150 people are read aloud at every Mass; those serving in the military and those who are sick. (Yup, I admit it; I was bad and counted them one day,
though I usually just pray silent Ave Marias.) It troubles me, among other things, to think that the parishioners are being conditioned to think that if Bobby in boot camp or Grandma in hospice aren’t having their names read aloud they’re somehow being cheated. Let’s call this Mass “Vanilla with a few Fruity Sprinkles.” Later in the day at the same parish: Ever hear of that show called “America’s got Talent”? Well, you wouldn’t know it thanks to the choir. Not to be mean, but no matter how decent the song choices are, there is nothing sacred about the sound emanating from the loft in this place. I know it’s not easy for a pastor to tell his sharp-noted parishioners that their gifts are best suited for the Rosary Maker’s Guild, but someone has to do it, and soon! This one’s “Off Key Lime Custard.” The 9 or 10:30 a.m. at another nearby parish: Modern, theater in-the-round building. In contrast, the choir here (positioned right up front where all can admire how well they “actively participate”) is very good. Vocally, that is. The choice of music, however, all too frequently consists of those dreadful hymns that are either all about us, all about us pretending we’re “the bread of life,” or all about us being Protestant. Not infrequently the congregation is invited to clap for this person or that, but usually only after we’ve extended a hand in blessing them. The Gospel for the Sunday in question was about the Samaritan woman at the well. This parish, I know from hard experience, traditionally interjects choral refrains of “Give us living water... give us living water...” intermittently throughout the reading. I don’t care how many years this exercise works off of my Purgatorial sentence, I can’t go through that again. This one’s “Rocky Road.” The 8:45 or 10:30 a.m. at yet another nearby parish: New building, very traditional in design and very beautiful. The pastor is an enigmatic blend of rock solid orthodoxy and liturgical ambivalence. The earlier of the two Masses is the children’s liturgy. After enduring one of these several years ago as the kids got to play Mass (reading the readings, gathering around the big marble table for the Mr. Rogers-style homily, singing what felt like 17 verses of “Go Tell it on the Mountain”) I avoid it like a steakhouse on Fridays during Lent. The later of the two Masses suffers a unique strain of musical malady,
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literally, as the music director sometimes treats the congregation to a performance of his original compositions. This gives the Mass a “Prairie Home Companion” feel that I’m not at home with. This one’s “Make-Your-Own Sunday.” The 7:30 a.m. at another friend’s parish a little further away: Contemporarystyle building, low ceilings, lots and lots of brick. No music. No singing. No predictable order, either, as the pastor is prone to skipping parts of the Mass when he’s clearly in a hurry. When he’s not, he delivers lengthy animated homilies on various topics, sometimes even related to the faith. I’m sure this isn’t the “welcome home” my friend John is looking for. This one’s “Rainbow Sherbet.” The 8:30 a.m: Novus Ordo in Latin about a 45-minute drive away in a magnificent historic church building. A truly sacred liturgy in a truly sacred place. No shenanigans. The readings, homily and Prayer of the Faithful are in English. One cantor leads the congregation in singing beautiful Latin hymns accompanied by pipe organ. Reverence abounds, though I long for this Mass to be offered “ad orientem,” at which point it will come rather close to resembling the Vatican Council’s intentions. I’m concerned, however, that John will feel like a fish out of water here. This one’s “Classic Neapolitan.” OK. You get the point. Back in the day, the Mass was pretty much the Mass. A visitor who showed up with Protestant baggage packed with hand-clapping hymnals, homespun hospitality and a professional preacher that could give Tony Robbins a run for his motivational-speaking money might not “get it,” but they’d leave there knowing that the Mass is sacred, that a real Sacrifice is being offered, and that it sure as heck isn’t all about us. Nowadays, however, Mass in the Ordinary Form is available with such a staggering array of embellishments that they can be chosen like side dishes from a menu. The process is very much consumer-driven. It’s also very Protestant. It occurs to me now that the reason I found it so difficult to let my friend know where and when we’d be going to Mass is simple: I jumped headlong into the same trap that captured the collective imagination of the liturgical renovators after Vatican II. In crafting a Catholic liturgy that is VERRECCHIO, SEE page 24
Finding joy through the rosary
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t can be easy to become disheartened by the attacks on Christianity that are beginning to escalate in our nation. We are viewed as intolerant, out of touch and even as bullies imposing our view of morality on others. Secularists see us as the “religion of no” with our “thou shalt not” commandments and so many rules and requirements. The harsh reality is that Christianity will never be attractive to those outside our faith if we do not manifest the joy that we experience as followers of Christ. As Pope Benedict XVI said, “Bear witness to everyone, beginning with your peers, to the joy of His strong and sweet presence. Tell them how wonderful it is to be friends with Jesus and that it is worthwhile following Him. Show your enthusiasm [that] only by following Jesus can the true meaning of life, and true and lasting joy, be found.” Of course, if we want to manifest our joy to others, we must first experience it ourselves. It can be easy to view our faith as a “religion of no,” a series of “thou shalt not” statements and earthly sufferings that we must endure to reach the joy of eternal life. So how do we turn the “no” into a heartfelt “yes”? The answer is simple: practice virtue. To practice virtue is to say “yes” to following the example of Jesus and Mary as presented to us in the Scriptures. The easiest way to do this is to pray the rosary, every day if possible. Each rosary mystery has an imbedded virtue, or fruit, through which we can learn to imitate Christ. The Catechism of the Catholic Church defines virtue as “a habitual and firm disposition to do the good. It allows the person not only to perform good acts, but to give the best of himself. The virtuous person tends toward the good with all his sensory and spiritual powers; he pursues the good and chooses it in concrete actions. The goal of a virtuous person is to become like God.” (CCC 1803) Over time, a person who prays the rosary devoutly and meditates on the 20 mysteries grows in and imitates these virtues. The virtues for each rosary mystery are too numerous to list here, but you can easily find them in rosary booklets or online. As you pray the rosary, reflect on the virtue of each mystery and how you can apply it to your life. Read and study the Gospels, and learn more about virtue in sections 1803-1845 of the Catechism (also available online). One simple way to practice a lot of the virtues at once is to try to outdo everyone in kindness. Look at each person you encounter as created and loved by God and try to outdo that person in kindness. It may be as simple as holding a door, smiling at someone who is scowling or giving everyone at home a big hug. If all Christians did this, then our churches would be overflowing with those who want to experience the same joy that we have. Peggy Bowes is a member of Holy Angels Church in Mount Airy and author of “The Rosary Workout” (www.rosaryworkout.com).
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VERRECCHIO FROM PAGE 23
less of a “culture shock” to other Christians (and let’s be honest – this was a major motivating factor in how the Mass was changed) we now find ourselves competing in a foreign market, an all-too-earthly one in which we don’t belong. In trying to calculate which liturgy would best fit John’s comfort level, I entered into that very same territory. As we drove that Sunday toward the “Vanilla” Mass, knowing that John would naturally draw comparisons, I tried to give him some sense for how very different the Catholic liturgy is from the Protestant worship services of his past. I’m afraid, however, I blew it. You see, while well-catechized Catholics
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can look beyond the less-than-sacred elements of the Mass to gaze upon the Sacred Mysteries (albeit with difficulty) people like John, equipped with sincerity though he may be, cannot. This Sunday, God willing, we’ll get a do-over, and this time I’m not going to let earthly concerns stop me from treating my friend to the ancient and venerable Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite, a decadent serving of “Heavenly Hash” that I’m sure he’ll never forget. The rest is up to Christ. Louie Verrecchio is a columnist for Catholic News Agency and writes “Preparing the Way for the Roman Missal – Where the New Translation meets the New Evangelization,” available at www.MissalPrep.com. His work also includes the internationally acclaimed “Harvesting the Fruit of Vatican II Faith Formation Series.” For more information, go ro www. harvestingthefruit.com.
of Christian Ministries when Aberle delivered the donations. Aberle returned to help serve meals at the ministry at Casey’s invitation. — Jean Aberle
In Brief Greensboro Catholic Women mark 40 years GREENSBORO — The Greensboro Council of Catholic Women recently welcomed its founding president, Agnes Hughes of St. Pius X Church in Greensboro, at its fall lunch, at which the council members celebrated the group’s 40th anniversary. About 85 members gathered to hear guest speaker Linda Evans, acting director of the Greensboro Historical Museum. The council also undertook a special project to assist the family of Louis and Becky Bryant. Louis Bryant, 33, suffers severe multiple sclerosis and their home is in need of adaptations to ensure his mobility and safety. The council raised nearly $500 for the Bryant Foundation. Becky Bryant is the daughter of Judy and Jack MacDowall of St. Paul the Apostle Church in Greensboro, as were the Bryants before moving to Good Shepherd Church in King. — Judy Martineau
Development director honored CHARLOTTE — Diocesan Director of Development Jim Kelley was recognized during the annual conference of the International Catholic Stewardship Council Oct. 23-26, in Orlando, Fla. Kelley, who served as president of the council’s board of directors from 2007 to 2011 and served a total of nearly 11 years on the board, was given an apostolic blessing from Pope Benedict XVI to thank him for his leadership and service. Pictured with him are Lois Locey, secretary of the board; Metuchen Bishop Paul Bootkoski, episcopal moderator; and Rick Jeric, current president of the board. Kelley and about a dozen others from the Diocese of Charlotte attended the annual conference. — Patricia L. Guilfoyle and Katharine Daragan
AOH members elect new leaders
Youths collect carts of food NEWTON — Bonnie Aberle of Newton held a birthday “céili,” an Irish word for party, for which she asked invitees to bring boxed and canned foods for the needy on Sept. 2. A local youth group responded by bringing four grocery carts of food. “Praised be Jesus!” said Jacqueline Casey
WILMINGTON — North Carolina’s six divisions of the Ancient Order of Hibernians held their annual convention in Wilmington Oct. 7-8. New state officers were elected to two-year terms: William Keely of Raleigh, president; Robert Driscoll of Greensboro, vice president; Timothy Whalen of Raleigh, treasurer; Patrick Tracey of Greensboro, secretary; John Ryan of Raleigh, Eastern District director; Joseph Dougherty of Huntersville, Central District director; and John Ryan of Charlotte, Western District director. — Joseph Dougherty
‘We are like every other close family, but with maybe a few more religious pictures and relics hanging on the wall. The extra vocations are just something that ties us closer together and keeps our family strong.’ — Sara Kauth
VOCATION FROM PAGE 12
She recently made her first promise as a Discalced Carmelite. The Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites is a community of lay persons who, in the footsteps of St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross, follow the Rule of St. Albert, dedicating themselves to contemplative prayer, praying the Divine Office daily and expressing a deep devotion to the Blessed Mother. “I had felt a drawing of my heart to this order for some time. Their spirituality seems to be a fit for me,” she said. The youngest member of the Kauth clan, Sara, 30, who lives in Charlotte and is single, shares her perspective on growing up in a family replete with religious vocations.
“Living in a family with so many vocations is hard to explain. “It’s like asking someone what it is like to live in another country, when they have lived there for the majority of their life. My father was ordained when I was in elementary school and my brother entered the seminary when I was in seventh grade,” Sara recalls. “For me, growing up with priests and nuns being over for holidays and family gatherings was very normal. It wasn’t out of the ordinary growing up having several priests over for dinner, and that hasn’t really changed. Looking at it now and knowing that this isn’t what most families grow up with, all I can say is that I feel very blessed.” She adds, “We are like every other close family, but with maybe a few more religious pictures and relics hanging on the wall. The extra vocations are just something that ties us closer together and keeps our family strong.”