Jan. 21, 2000

The Catholic News & Herald 1

January 21, 2000

January 21, 2000 Volume 9 t Number 20

Inside Eighth abbot continues Benedictine tradition ...Page 3

Catechetical Gathering All are called to be disciples, parish leaders told

...Page 5

King’s dream lives through legacy ...Page 10

Local News St. Leo Church parishioners embroider jubilee quilt Living the Faith

Hundreds attend right to life rally and march in Raleigh

...Page 24

Every Week Entertainment ...Pages 16-17

Editorials & Columns ...Pages 18-19

See inside this issue for more stories on Belmont Abbey and the Benedictine life.

S e r v i n g C a t h o l i c s in Western North Carolina in the Diocese of Charlotte

A solemn blessing

Abbot Placid Solari, OSB, receives abbatial blessing

By JIMMY ROSTAR and JOANN KEANE BELMONT — The Right Reverend Placid D. Solari, OSB, was blessed as eighth abbot of Belmont Abbey on Jan. 15, two months after his brother monks elected and monastic officials confirmed him as the spiritual and administrative leader of the Benedictine institution.

The abbatial blessing of Abbot Placid is part of a new chapter in the Benedictine story in North Carolina, a story well over a century old. Abbot Placid was elected and confirmed as the new abbot last November, thus succeeding Abbot Oscar Burnett as the new superior of the abbey. Abbot Emeritus Burnett had served as abbot since 1991.

As eighth abbot of Belmont Abbey, Abbot Placid will tend to the spiritual and administrative leadership duties of the abbey and serve as chancellor of Belmont Abbey College.

The Mass in which the blessing took place was filled with themes celebrating the religious zeal and leadership the Benedictines have fostered in North Carolina for more than a century.

Presided by Bishop William G. Curlin of Charlotte and concelebrated by dozens of Benedictine, diocesan and other religious priests serving in North Carolina’s two dioceses and beyond, the Mass was celebrated in Belmont Abbey Basilica.

The blessing took place on the memorial of Sts. Maur and Placid, disciples of the founder of western monasticism, St. Benedict. Hymns honored the servitude and joy of the Christian life, and called to mind the patroness of Belmont Abbey — known under the title of Maryhelp of Christians. Scripture readings chosen by the new abbot spoke of the graces needed to fulfill heavenly tasks and to live in the spirit of true faith.

The Rite of Blessing, customarily celebrated by the bishop of the place where the monastery is located, solemnly focused on the charge of the abbot and the living symbols of his role.

To a series of questions posed by Bishop Curlin, Abbot Placid afPhoto by Joann S. Keane Bishop F. Joseph Gossman of firmed his promise to lead as a determined teacher, a Raleigh, Abbot Placid Solari, spiritual father, a prudent OSB, and Bishop William G. administrator and a reliCurlin of Charlotte, share gious loyal to the church a moment in front of the and the pope.

Belmont Abbey Basilica.

Abbot Placid then knelt as the Litany of Saints was sung, as the abbot and all the congregation prayed for God’s grace as he embraces his new ministry.

The Prayer of Blessing asked for God’s grace in guiding the abbot to fully realize his responsibilities as a leader and a brother: “Give him the gifts of your Spirit. Set him on fire with love for your glory and for the service of your Church, and may he in turn inflame with zeal the hearts of his brothers. In his life and in his teachings may he set Christ above all things, and when the day of judgment dawns, receive him in

Photo by Joann S. Keane

Abbot Placid Solari, OSB, was elected as eighth abbot of Belmont Abbey last November. He received the abbatial blessing Jan. 15, the memorial of Sts. Maur and Placid, who were followers of St. Benedict. the company of his brothers, into your kingdom.”

A copy of the “Rule of Benedict,” a synopsis of spiritual life that has guided the Benedictine tradition for 15 centuries, was given to Abbot Placid, as were a ring signifying the abbot’s office and the abbot’s pastoral staff.

In addition to the blessing of the abbot, the Mass provided for an exchange of thanksgiving between the monks of Belmont Abbey and the church community in the Diocese of Charlotte.

Flanked by his brother monks surrounding the altar, Abbot Placid offered his gratitude to the faithful who continue their support of the abbey, its monks and their works.

The congregation broke into applause and offered a rousing standing ovation for the Benedictines.

“The election of an abbot is always the action of the entire monastic community,” Abbot Placid said during closing comments. “We, the monks of Belmont Abbey who stand before you today, pledge to you ... our continued support to enrich this church in North Carolina with our lives and our hearts.”

In his homily, and with Bishop F. Joseph Gossman of Raleigh seated nearby, Bishop Curlin promised loving support for the ongoing ministry of the Benedictine institution

See ABBATIAL BLESSING, page 15

2 The Catholic News & Herald ing with the international planners of World Youth Day, Pope John Paul II said he was looking forward to the celebration in mid-August, when more than 1 million young people are expected to converge on Rome. He told organizers from 70 countries Jan. 15 that he wanted the young participants to leave the event as evangelizers and “builders of a civilization of love.” The main events of the Aug. 14-20 celebration in Rome will be a vigil Aug. 19 and Mass Aug. 20, both presided over by the pope in a field on the outskirts of Rome.

Portillo’s promises create cautious optimism among church leaders SAN SALVADOR (CNS) — The wide-ranging changes promised by newly elected Guatemalan President Alfonso Portillo have generated cautious optimism among Catholic leaders in the Central American nation. Auxiliary Bishop Mario Rios Montt of Guatemala City said Jan. 17 that Portillo’s “willingness to make changes are a great advance.” If Portillo “manages to do what he proposes, this will be a new Guatemala ... but it doesn’t just depend on the good will of the president,” the bishop said. In his first public address after being sworn in as Guatemala’s fifth democratic president Jan. 14, Portillo, 48, of the rightist Guatemalan Republican Front, announced a new internal investigation into the death of Auxiliary Bishop Juan Gerardi Conedera of Guatemala City, a veteran human rights campaigner slain allegedly by members of the security forces.

Corporate responsibility groups target genetic tweaking of food NEW YORK (CNS) — Genetic engineering of agricultural products has emerged as a principal new emphasis of church groups involved in the corporate responsibility movement.

The annual compilation of stockholder resolutions published by the Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility in New York identified 19 resolutions that had been filed by church groups and their allies challenging corporations on the use and sale of genetically engineered products. “This technology involves significant social, economic

More strife in Indonesia A man walk past a destroyed Catholic church on the Indonesian island of Lombok Jan. 18.

Thousands of angry Indonesian Muslims went on an antiChristian rampage destroying at least 10 churches and burning shops. Violence between Muslims and Christians on the socalled Spice Islands has raged for more than a year.

CNS photo from Reuters

Justices hear arguments in Colorado case on ‘bubble zone’ WASHINGTON (CNS) — With attorneys arguing about whether a “floating bubble zone” is more or less of a restriction on First Amendment rights than the court previously has allowed, the Supreme Court Jan. 19 took up consideration of a Colorado law limiting protests outside medical buildings. For the third time since 1994, the court will rule on whether restrictions meant to address “sidewalk counseling” at abortion clinics are constitutional. The Colorado law adopted in 1993 prohibits anyone outside any “health care facility” from approaching within eight feet of another person to hand out a leaflet, show a sign, or engage in discussion with anyone within 100 feet of any entrances without permission.

Pope meets planners, says he looks forward to World Youth Day VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Meet-

Episcopal January 21, 2000 Volume 9 • Number 20

Publisher: Most Reverend William G. Curlin Editor: Joann S. Keane Associate Editor: Jimmy Rostar Staff Writer: Alesha M. Price Production Associate: Julie Radcliffe Advertising Representative: Cindi Feerick Secretary: Jane Glodowski 1123 South Church St., Charlotte, NC 28203 Mail: P.O. Box 37267, Charlotte, NC 28237 Phone: (704) 370-3333 FAX: (704) 370-3382 E-mail: catholicnews@charlottediocese.org The Catholic News & Herald, USPC 007-393, is published by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte, 1123 South Church St., Charlotte, NC 28203, 44 times a year, weekly except for Christmas week and Easter week and every two weeks during June, July and August for $15 per year for enrollees in parishes of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte and $18 per year for all other subscribers. Second-class postage paid at Charlotte NC and other cities. POSTMASTER: Send address corrections to The Catholic News & Herald, P.O. Box 37267, Charlotte, NC 28237.

January 21, 2000

The World in

c a l e n-

Bishop William G. Curlin will take part in the following events: January 23-24 The National Right to Life March, Washington, DC Jan. 23 — 8pm Concelebrated Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Washington, DC January 24 — 10am Mass for pilgrims from the Diocese of Charlotte Blessed Sacrament Chapel within the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception January 28 “Journey to Justice” retreat Charlotte

and environmental risks,” says a supporting statement for a resolution filed with American Home Products, Archer Daniels Midland, Dow, DuPont and Monsanto.

Israeli human rights report criticizes land policies JERUSALEM (CNS) — Massive land confiscation from Palestinians for Jewish use and overcrowding in Palestinian neighborhoods are part of an “explicitly stated and intentional” Israeli government policy based on political expediency, said an Israeli human rights group. “Israel invests enormous resources to build large Jewish neighborhoods in East Jerusalem.

At the same time the Israeli authorities choke development for the Palestinian population, which is perceived as a ‘demographic threat’ to Israeli control of the city,” B’Tselem said in its report on the status of Jerusalem, titled “Injustice in the Holy City.” B’Tselem is the leading Israeli human rights

Diocesan

plan -

Month Committee, this afternoon at 12:15 p.m. with Father Martin Carter from Our Lady of Victory Church in Brooklyn, N.Y., being assisted by Rev. Mr. Curtiss Todd, vice chancellor of the diocese. A covered dish luncheon follows the Mass. For details, call the church office at (336) 272-8650.

7 CLEMMONS — Holy Family Church, 4820 Kinnamon Rd., is celebrating a charismatic Mass tonight at 7:30 p.m. For more information, call the church office at (336) 778-0600.

12 GREENSBORO — Single Again Catholics is hosting a Valentine’s Day party tonight at 6:30 p.m. Please bring a covered dish and a beverage. For details about directions, donation and other information, call Patti at (336) 665-8108.

Ongoing ASHEVILLE — The Separated/Divorced Group meets every Tuesday in the Family Life Center of St. Eugene

group advocating for human rights in the Palestinian territories and was founded in 1989.

Militant Muslims attacking Kosovo’s Christians, says Fides VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Kosovo’s Christians are facing increasing violence from militant Muslims in the war-scarred southern Yugoslavian province, said Fides, the Vatican’s missionary news agency. Jesuit Father Mato Jakovic, coordinator of Jesuit Refugee Services in Macedonia and Kosovo, said in a Jan. 12 Fides report that Catholic cemeteries in the cities of Prizren and Pec had been destroyed.

The graves of a bishop and priest were profaned. The Fides report said the relatives of priests are “ever more frequently maltreated,” adding that the homes of relatives of two Franciscans were torched in early December.

Vatican TV newscast now has Internet home NEW YORK (CNS) — Vatican TV’s weekly newscast is now being made available on the Internet by ForeignTV.com. The official Vatican TV network, Centro Televisivo Vaticano, or CTV, compiles a weekly broadcast of 20-30 minutes. It is made available to ForeignTV.com each Wednesday, according to spokesman Lewis Goldberg. People wishing to see the broadcast should go to www.foreigntv.com and then click on its WorldNewsTV. com icon.

Pontifical university offers rabbiled Holocaust seminar ROME (CNS) — A Rome university instituted by the Vatican offered a seminar on the Nazi Holocaust — and invited a rabbi to teach it. From Jan. 10-18, Rabbi Leon Klenicki, interfaith affairs director at the Anti-Defamation League in New York and professor of Jewish theology at Immaculate Conception Seminary in Huntington, N.Y., led a six-class seminar on Jewish theological responses to the Holocaust.

The class was at the University of the Holy Cross, instituted by the Vatican in 1985 and run by the personal prelature of Opus Dei.

Church, 1 Culvern St., at 7 p.m. James Young’s book “Divorcing, Believing, Belonging” is the group’s current focus for discussion. For details, call Nancy at (828) 254-5193.

CHARLOTTE — There is a Chi-Rho Mass held on the campus of UNCC Tuesdays at 12:30 p.m. in Room 208 of the Cone Student Center, followed by a brown bag lunch and discussion. Call the Office of Religious Affairs at (704) 547-4069 for more information.

CHARLOTTE — “Forever Young” is an exercise group for people 55 and older at St. Matthew Church, 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy. They meet every Monday and Friday and are seeking new members. Call Peg Hill at (704) 843-0909 for details.

Please submit notices of events for Diocesan Planner at least 10 days prior to publication date.

January 21, 2000

By Alesha M. Price Staff Writer BELMONT — If asked nicely, he might do his Donald Duck impression or retell the plot of the latest scary movie he has seen. This fun-loving and spirited side of newly installed Abbot Placid Solari, OSB, has been seen by many of his students, former parishioners and friends. However, he is best known as “pious, spiritual and dedicated” by many of those with whom he has worked over the years.

Abbot Placid explains his multifaceted nature: “I have always enjoyed life and have had fun. I enjoy teasing and keeping people laughing. I have to keep a sense of humor as I sit back and watch things happen in and around my life over which I have no control.”

To many, it may seem that Abbot Placid has always been in control of his life, from his childhood days in Richmond, Va., to his present days at Belmont Abbey and College.

He was born the youngest in a family of six and attended the same school, Benedictine High School, that his brothers attended.

During his high school years, he became friends with Trappist Father Aelred Hagan, the vocations and novice director at Mepkin Abbey in the Diocese of Charleston, S.C. “In high school and in the novitiate, he [Abbot Placid] was a very focused and upright person, one who cares a lot about people,” said Father Hagan. “He is a no-nonsense person who gets down to business ... but he has a good sense of humor.”

The mini-pilgrimages he made to Belmont Abbey with Father Hagan and other students allowed Abbot Placid bonding time with his oldest brother, a monk in Belmont Abbey at the time. He and that brother, Father Jim Solari, now the pastor of St. Leo the Great Church in Winston-Salem, are 22 years apart.

Even though there are many years between the brothers, their lives curiously converge in several instances.

After receiving his bachelor’s degree in history from Bellermine College in Louisville, Ky., Abbot Placid entered the novitiate in Belmont Abbey and then 3635 Park Rd., is having an attic sale today from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. in the cafeteria. Call the church office at (704) 5278671 for more details.

CHARLOTTE — The Charlotte Catholic High School Placement Test is administered each year to all eighth graders who wish to apply to the high school. The placement test is being given this morning from 8:15 a.m.12:30 p.m. at the school, located at 7702 Pineville-Matthews Road. Students should bring a light snack for the break and two sharpened number two pencils. For registration and other information, call the school at (704) 543-1217.

6 CHARLOTTE — All are invited to St. Gabriel Church, 3016 Providence Rd., for the Respect for Life Rosary being said in front of Our Lady’s Grotto at 3 p.m. this afternoon. For more information, call the church office at (704) 364-5431.

GREENSBORO — St. Mary Church, 1414 Gorrell St., is holding their annual Black History Month Celebration Mass, sponsored by the Black History

The Catholic News & Herald 3

Around the Di-

Eighth abbot continues

Archive photo

Bishop Michael J. Begley, founding bishop of the Diocese of Charlotte, ordains then-Rev. Mr. Placid Solari to the priesthood in this June 1980 photo. attended the Pontificium Athenaeum Anselmianum in Rome until 1978 — the same school his brother attended.

Both brothers maintain that Father Solari had no direct influence on his youngest brother. However, Father Solari said, “I always thought it might be a possibility [for him to become a priest] because he was always pious, responsible, hard-working and attracted to his faith. But, I never tried to influence him.”

When Abbot Placid was teaching theology at Belmont Abbey College from 1978-1982, he also worked at St. Michael Church in Gastonia as a transitional deacon and, later, as associate pastor to his brother, who was the pastor at the time.

“He taught me a lot, and I enjoyed working with him and the wonderful parish community,” said Abbot Placid.

Father Solari agreed. “We enjoyed being together at the parish,” he said.

“We had always had a good family life, and there was never a time when we

didn’t get along.”

Abbot Placid was ordained in June 1980 — almost exactly 25 years to the day that his brother was ordained in June 1955.

A parishioner from St. Michael Church remembers Abbot Placid in very positive terms: “I found him very understanding and compassionate,” said Edith Baug Darwin, who has been a parishioner since 1934. “I felt very drawn to him, even though he was a younger priest, and he typified what I thought a monk was like.”

After receiving his doctorate in theology and patristics, the study of early Christian writers, from a school in Rome, in 1996, Abbot Placid became academic dean of Belmont Abbey College — the position that his brother held from 1970 to 1978.

While working at these positions, Abbot Placid continued to teach, which is his first love.

“I love teaching so much — probably

January 23 ASHEVILLE — The Basilica of St. Lawrence, 97 Haywood St., is hosting an Ecumenical Jubilee Christian Unity Service this afternoon at 3 p.m. with a reception to follow in the crypt.

For more information, call the church office at (828) 252-6042.

24 CHARLOTTE — Christians in Career Transitions is a ministry devoted to helping people in career crises. The group meets every other Monday night, including tonight and Feb. 7 and 21, from 7-9 p.m. in the conference room of St. Matthew Church, 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy. Included in this ministry are Saturday sessions on “Interview Skills to Get the Job” on Jan. 15 and 22. There are a limited number of openings, so for further information, call Rev. Mr. Jim Hamrlik at (704) 542-6459.

27 ASHEVILLE — All are invited to attend a healing Mass at St. Joan of Arc Church, 919 Haywood Rd., tonight at 7 p.m. Refreshments will be served after the Mass. Call the church

office at (828) 252-3151 for details.

29 ASHEVILLE — The Basilica of St. Lawrence, 97 Haywood St., is having a “Day of Retreat and Prayer” today, starting with 8 a.m. Mass and ending at 3:30 p.m. The spirituality of St. Louis Marie de Montford is being featured in the morning, and the revelations to Sister Faustina of the Divine Mercy are being featured in the afternoon. For reservations, call the church office at (828) 254-6042.

LEXINGTON — Our Lady of the Rosary Church, 619 S. Main St., is celebrating the Feast of St. Francis de Sales this afternoon at the 5 p.m. Mass with a covered dish supper to follow in the parish center. The Salesian Award, given to a parishioner who best exemplifies the virtues of St. Francis de Sales, is being presented at Mass. For more information, call the church office at (336) 248-2463.

30 ASHEVILLE — The Catholic Association of Family Educators (C.A.F.E.), Western North Carolina’s homeschool support group, is hosting

because I’ve seen, in my own life, the creative influence of teachers,” he said. “The students have always been a challenge to one’s self, and you can see as people’s minds open to new visions and vistas.”

He now begins the next phase in his life as eighth abbot of Belmont Abbey and the chancellor of Belmont Abbey College, a position which came as a “surprise to him” at the time of the elections last Thanksgiving.

His goals include “leading the community in discussions of monastic life to make the values of monasticism real and present, attracting vocations, and overseeing the identity of the college to make sure it continues in the traditions of monastic life and maintains identity as Catholic and Bendictine institution.”

Father Hagan applauded the monks’ selection of the new abbot.

“The choice of him by the monastic community sends a good message to the college and the community, which is important in regards to the growth of monastic life in North Carolina.”

Benedictine Father Paschal Baumstein, archivist and historian emeritus of Belmont Abbey, who was in the novitiate with Abbot Placid, said, “his pleasant nature and sense of discernment was impressive from the beginning.”

“I am thrilled. None of the elections has gone more quickly because the community saw an obvious choice for the position. He has an impressive humility and a distinguished scholastic record and looks for what is good in all of those around him,” he continued.

Father Solari realizes the level of responsibility ahead for his brother: “I am very proud of him and happy for the community. This is an honor for him but also a serious challenge. This is somewhat of a major responsibility that will not be an easy one, but his deep spirituality, based on the “Rule of St. Benedict,” is a blessing for the college. His leadership qualities mean a bright day for Belmont Abbey.” t Contact Staff Writer Alesha M. Price by calling (704) 370-3354 or e-mail amprice@charlottediocese.org. a “Moms’ Evening Out” tonight at 7 p.m. For more information, call Denise Vish at (828) 645-6990 or Sheryl Oligny at (828) 298-0336.

February 4 HAMLET — St. James Church Annual Pit-Cooked Barbecue is being held today from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. at 1018 West Hamlet Ave., off of Hwy. 74. People can choose pork or chicken, cooked on site, with Cole slaw, baked beans and rolls and may eat in or take out. The proceeds will benefit the church’s building fund.

Call the church office at (910) 5820207 for further information.

HICKORY — Marriage Encounter is an enrichment program for married couple to concentrate on each other and to grow spiritually and emotionally. This weekend, the retreat is being held at the Catholic Conference Center, 1551 Trinity Lane. For details, call Tom and Susan Rozycki at (704) 483-2329.

5 CHARLOTTE — St. Ann Church,

4 The Catholic News & Herald

January 21, 2000

Honoring Abbot Placid D. Solari on the occasion of his blessing as 8th Abbot of Belmont Abbey

“Listen readily to holy reading and devote yourself often to prayer.”

— Rule of Benedict 4, 55

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte — The Most Reverend William G. Curlin and the Catholic Community of Western North Carolina

January 21, 2000

Around the Di-

The Catholic News & Herald 5

All are called to be disciples, parish leaders

By ELLEN NEERINCX SIGMON Correspondent HICKORY — By comparing Jesus to the rabbis of his time, the Diocese of Charlotte’s vicar for education explained how all Christians are called to be disciples in a keynote speech at the diocesan parish catechetical leader (PCL) meeting at the Catholic Conference Center.

Rabbis of Jesus’ time only accepted the best candidates from those who came to them asking to be trained, said Father James Hawker during the Jan. 13 meeting. Jesus, on the other hand, “chose his disciples with all kinds of warts and calluses. He chose people who could be a real pain in the neck, people who needed to be fine-tuned, people who needed to be refined.”

Another difference, said Father Hawker, was that the candidates who learned from the rabbis would eventually strike out on their own and find their own group to lead, leaving the rabbi behind. “Jesus asked his disciples to have a permanent relationship with him,” he said. “Discipleship was a call to intimacy with him. He expected that the disciple would identify with him first, and then with his message.”

Although all Christians are called to be disciples, said Father Hawker, all Christians are not meant to do the same type of ministry. “We respond according to the role and responsibilities of our lives,” he said. “Our mission is directly related to our state and circumstances of life.”

One thing that all disciples must do, said Father Hawker, is to use their authority properly. “Any authority you have is delegated,” he said. “Our authority, as we live it out, must be a moral authority. Authority and integrity are two words that are integrally bound together.”

“We also learn (in the Bible),” he said, “that any disciple is a person of faith.” To illustrate this point, Father Hawker talked about several encounters between Jesus and his disciple Peter, and also pointed out writings of Paul on that subject in his letters to the Colossians and Philippians in the Bible.

Father Hawker then turned to the role of the catechetical leader in his or her parish. “The diocese has to have programs to assist in development and maturation (in the faith),” he said. “You play an important role” in the achievement of that goal on the parish level.

He defined a catechetical leader as “a person of vision, purpose and direction, who inspires and motivates, guides and directs.” He also quoted Pope John Paul II as saying that “‘the purpose of catechesis is to assist people to become intimate with Jesus.’”

“This assumes we are intimate (with Jesus) ourselves,” said Father Hawker. “(Leadership is) an investment of self as a witness to Jesus.”

Father Hawker also said that catechetical leaders should develop a mission statement to help them to implement their visions for faith formation

Photo by Ellen Neerincx Sigmon

Marylin Kravatz, Southern Regional Coordinator for the Office of Faith Formation, leads a roundtable discussion entitled, “Parents, Our Partners in Faith Formation.” in their individual parishes.

After Father Hawker’s opening address, those attending the meeting had a choice of two roundtable discussions to attend in the morning, and two after lunch.

The morning sessions were “Parents, Our Partners in Faith Formation,” led by Marylin Kravatz, faith formation coordinator for the Southern Region, and “Working with Faith Formation Boards,” led by Dr. Michael Skube, superintendent of Catholic schools. The afternoon sessions were “Spirituality and Retreats,” led by Sis-

ter Bernadette Svatos, faith formation coordinator for the Northern Region, and “Hispanic Ministry for the Millennium,” led by Sister Johanna Orlett, a Franciscan nun who teaches at Catawba College in Salisbury.

Dr. Cris Villapando, director of programs for the diocesan Office of Faith Formation, said that programs for PCLs are held five times a year.

“The basic idea is to equip our PCLs,” he said. “This is diocesan-wide. When they go back to their regions, they get more custom-tailored service from their regional coordinators. This is

6 The Catholic News & Herald

The Benedic-

Saint’s “Rule” guides Benedictine, spiritual life “This message of mine is for you, then, if you are ready to give up your own will, once and for all, and armed with the strong and noble weapons of obedience to do battle for the true King, Christ the Lord.” — from the Prologue of the “Rule of Benedict”

By JIMMY ROSTAR Associate Editor The work is credited with advancing the monastic life across western Europe and into New World. It continues to offer spiritual and administrative guidance especially for those who lead and live in the Benedictine tradition, and it has done much to shape the spiritual lives of countless men and women — clergy, religious and laity — who seek God through prayer, study, solitude and Christian service.

Written in the sixth century, the “Rule of Benedict” has long been considered by the church as a treasury of spiritual advice for monastic life.

Including a prologue and 73 chapters, it prescribes a way of living through humble, contemplative and obedient faith and service.

Benedict’s “Rule” focuses on the spiritual and the practical, the doctrinal and the worldly. It directs its followers on everything from eating habits to virtuous zeal, from personal possessions to the use of prayer. It has survived, in several translated variations, for 15 centuries both as a body of law and a blueprint for spiritual fervor.

Based on Scripture and the Christian experience of community life, the “Rule” borrows — heavily, in places — from traditions found in earlier forms of monasticism in the East as early as the fourth century. Still, Benedict’s “Rule” proved to have tremendous influence on monastic life from the sixth century on, and it refined ways of spiritual and practical living that are still experienced.

The “Rule” is very much applicable in monasteries today, and it is often adapted by individual monasteries based on monks’ gifts and capabilities.

While its content might not always be followed verbatim, monks across the world nevertheless continue to see the “Rule’s” inspiration and wisdom as a

means of living a true Christian life.

Benedictine Father Luke Edelen, who ministers and teaches in Newark, N.J., said the “Rule” has found new ways to manifest itself through the ages as it inspires a particular way of life.

“Monastic life is a form of Christian community living that involves attention to the Word of God, obedience to the Word of God, the recognition that Christ is present in all kinds of ways in that community, and that Christ is to be loved, served and obeyed in all those ways he is present,” said Father Edelen.

Given that, he said, the “Rule” offers suggestions that can bring peace and simplicity of heart.

“The ‘Rule’ has been the prime vehicle for helping Benedictines through the centuries, because of what it does to encapsulate the best of the monastic tradition,” he said.

Father Edelen, who entered monastic life as a Benedictine in 1972, said there has been an explosion of Benedictine spirituality among the laity as well. “It’s very noticeable that there is great interest in general among lay people in recognizing that they are not second-class citizens, but rather are first-class Christians,” he said. “Not surprisingly, many have found inspiration in the Benedictine way as a path of living out their baptismal vocations.”

The “Rule” is more than a legal document, Father Edelen said. It is a spiritual document as well. And while the practical side of the monastery is necessarily guided by constitutions and directories, he added, “what is absolutely indispensable is a spiritual vision that the ‘Rule’ articulates.”

As the world continues to experience constant transition, he said, “Benedictine tradition encapsulated in the ‘Rule’ is a witness to the fact that while changes have come and gone, there is something that is perennial — something of lasting value.” t Contact Associate Editor Jimmy Rostar by calling (704) 370-3334, or email jtrostar@charlottediocese.org.

January 21, 2000

January 21, 2000

The Benedic-

The Catholic News & Herald 7

Role of abbot: to serve as head of spiritual

By JIMMY ROSTAR Associate Editor From the earliest days of Benedictine tradition, the role of the abbot has revolved around compassionate service as the head of a spiritual family. St. Benedict, according to various histories, conceived the notion of the monastic community as a family, and the community’s superior has always been expected to lead with paternal care.

An article in the online edition of “The Catholic Encyclopedia” gives the following summary of the abbot’s office: “In a word, uniting in his person the threefold office of father, teacher, and ruler, it is the duty of the Abbot to see that all things are administered wisely in the house of God.” A form of the Hebrew word “ab” — meaning father — led to the term abbot. St. Benedict, credited with founding western monasticism in the sixth century, directed in his “Rule” that the term be applied to monastery superiors and wrote “the abbot must always remember what his title signifies and act as a superior should.”

According to Benedict, the abbot is to represent the person of Christ to his monastic community. Certainly not to be considered a replacement for Jesus, the abbot is by Benedict’s estimation considered to be the primary person in a monastic community who takes on Christ’s shepherding ministry — one that encompasses compassion, fairness and Christian outreach.

In his book “Cherish Christ Above All: The Bible in the Rule of Benedict,” Benedictine Father Demetrius Dumm looks at the role of abbot through the text of the “Rule” and gives commentary on how the abbot is “the principal agent of compassion” in the monastery.

“The primary duty of the abbot is, therefore, to assure that the goodness of God, as loving Father, is made present in the monastery in a truly effective manner,” writes Father Dumm, professor of New Testament at St. Vincent Seminary in Latrobe, Pa. Borrowing from phrases in the

“Rule” itself, Father Dumm writes, “When the abbot is aware of ‘what he is,’ he realizes that he is the primary exponent of God’s love in the monastery; and when he remembers ‘what he is called,’ he hears an echo of those words of Benedict describing himself as ‘a father who loves you.’”

Moreover, the Benedictine “Rule” makes perfectly clear the role of the abbot as envisioned by Benedict, adds Father Dumm. In addition to his being a father figure, the abbot is to ensure that monastic life according to the “Rule” — adapted to individual capabilities — is lived by the monks in his charge. And, his duties also extend to the more earthly endeavors of administration of the community’s possessions, hospitality to visitors, and serving as an educator who shares his knowledge and wisdom with a personal honesty.

In essence, the abbot is to lead by example. “Let him seek to preside over his brothers rather than to preside over them,” reads the liturgical Prayer of Blessing for the abbot. “Give him a heart full of compassion, wisdom, and zeal, so that he may not lose even one of the flock entrusted to his charge.”

That spirit of Christian love, adds Father Dumm, keeps the abbot focused on his primary obligations to his brother monks and all the faithful they encounter.

“A genuine love and compassion for community members will also guide the monastic superior toward a recognition of the priority of their spiritual welfare over all other considerations,” he writes. “The good works of the monastery are, after all, merely the by-product of its primary function as a place where men and women can be supported on their journey to their final homeland.” t Contact Associate Editor Jimmy Rostar by calling (704) 370-3334, or email jtrostar@charlottediocese.org.

8 The Catholic News & Herald Canadian Celtic fiddler John Morris Rankin dies HALIFAX, Canada (CNS) — Popular Celtic fiddler John Morris Rankin of Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, died when his sports utility vehicle slid off a road in Cape Breton and plunged into the Atlantic Ocean.

The funeral Mass for the 40-year-old Catholic musician was to be held Jan. 20 at St. Mary’s Church in Mabou, and he was to be buried in the church cemetery. John Rankin formed a Celtic music group with siblings Jimmy, Cookie, Raylene and Heather. The group first known as The Rankin Family and later simply as the Rankins played together for 10 years and sold more than 2 million albums.

Catholic proposal among views at health coverage meeting WASHINGTON (CNS) — The Catholic Health Association Jan. 13 urged a steppingstone strategy to reach the goal of universal health coverage in the United States. Father Michael D. Place, CHA president and chief executive officer, proposed for starters cutting the current 44 million Americans without health care coverage by at least one-third over the next three years. The CHA was one of eight major national organizations involved in health care issues whose top leaders convened at the National Press Club for a daylong meeting, “Health Coverage 2000: Meeting the Challenge of the Uninsured.”

Discussion continues over selection process for House chaplain WASHINGTON (CNS) — Last spring, when House chaplain Rev.

January 21, 2000

People in the

CNS photo from Reuters

Fire at Seton Hall University Theresa Wilk, a Seton Hall University student who escaped an early morning fire in her dormitory, clutches a stuffed bear outside the university’s student center in South Orange, N.J., Jan. 19. Three people died and 58 others were injured in the fire at Boland Hall.

James Ford announced his plans to retire, he set in motion a six-month search to find his replacement — and then a firestorm of protest over the final candidate selected by House leaders. And the dust may not settle until

the House makes its final vote in early February. Much of the uproar has been over an alleged anti-Catholic bias shown by House leaders when they bypassed a Catholic priest, Father Timothy O’Brien, in favor of a Presbyterian

minister, Rev. Charles Wright, for the chaplaincy job, a position that has been around since 1789 and has always been filled by a Protestant.

Polish Auschwitz protester gets suspended jail term WARSAW, Poland (CNS) — A Polish nationalist who led the stationing of crosses at the former Auschwitz concentration camp has received a sixmonth suspended sentence for charges that include inciting racial hatred and insulting members of parliament. In a mid-January ruling, the regional court in Oswiecim said it was giving Kazimierz Switon a two-month suspended sentence for calling the Polish parliament “a Sejm of national traitors,” and a further four-month suspended sentence for slandering Germans and Jews on national and religious grounds.

Baseball team from Catholic university headed to Cuba ST. PAUL, Minn. (CNS) — The baseball team from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul is heading to Havana. The team, which ranked No. 2 last year in the NCAA’s Division III, apparently will be the first college or university team to play in Cuba since Johns Hopkins University in 1986.

The Jan 22-29 trip is scheduled to include cultural and educational outings, such as visits to museums, and perhaps time spent with Cuban college students and their families. Ball games are planned for Jan. 26 or 27.

January 21, 2000

The Catholic News & Herald 9

From the

St. Leo Church parishioners embroider jubilee

By Susan deGuzman Correspondent WINSTON-SALEM — The brainstorming began in January of 1999. The St. Leo the Great Church Jubilee Committee was given the task of finding a unique way to celebrate the millennium. They wanted to draw fellowship, unity and participation from parishioners of all ages in the process.

They decided that the creation of a jubilee quilt would be the answer.

ment at the overwhelming response and enthusiasm from parishioners.

The quilt consists of 40 squares, half embroidered in scriptural themes and half in liturgical ones. All the squares were pre-patterned. Many of the patterns were shared by committee member LaDonna Jensen, who was a central figure in proposing this project.

The squares with scriptural designs are generally quite detailed, while the liturgical ones are more simple. The “The squares went like hot cakes,” says Joyce two different designs are interspersed. Having so Anderson, who has been the coordinator of many different patterns the project. She added, “We (the committee) and people involved, it was decided that all the were all pleased that the participation went squares would be embroifar beyond any of our expectations.” dered with the same color to afford continuity. A gray thread was chosen, giving the quilt a sophisticated look. It Dedicated Jan. 12, 2000, by Father also coordinates with the bright purple James Solari, pastor, the work of art and teal colors of the borders, which now hangs majestically in the Bishop the Vatican has chosen as the official Begley Parish Center at St. Leo the colors for the Jubilee Year.

Great Church. It will remain in this The official Jubilee Logo has been location throughout 2000 to serve as placed in the center of the quilt. Mimi a reminder of the jubilee year celebraEisenmenger, a key participant in this tion. Many people will encounter the project, explained, “We obtained perquilt, as the parish center is used for mission from Rome to use the logo.” one of the Sunday Masses and numerParishioner Marianne Donadio was ous activities for youth, adults and responsible for construction of this seniors during the week. centerpiece.

The organizers — along with the An explanation of the logo, ac43 quilters, eight assemblers and nucording to the National Conference merous planners — remain in amaze-

Photo by Susan deGuzman

Father James Solari dedicates the jubilee quilt at the Bishop Begley Parish Center at St. Leo the Great Church in Winston-Salem. The quilt will hang throughout 2000 to serve as a reminder of the jubilee year celebration. of Catholic Bishops, is that of a cross imposed upon a circular blue field symbolizing the universe. The cross sustains humanity gathered in the continents represented by five doves.

It represents the Incarnation, whereby God enters into human history and redeems it. The light that comes from the center of the design signifies

Christ, who is the light of the world.

The colors of the logo express the joy and peace which are integral to the Jubilee celebration.

The project was first announced one Sunday in April at each Mass.

“The squares went like hot cakes,” says Joyce Anderson, who has been the coordinator of the project. She added, “We (the committee) were all pleased that the participation went far beyond any of our expectations.”

Once the announcement of the availability of the squares was issued, parishioners called asking for squares for weeks following.

Those with squares were encouraged to share the project with family members. Some of the squares were shared among different families.

Working during the latter part of the spring and into the summer, all quilters finished by August.

A group of eight women met regularly during the fall for the final stages. It was no small task to piece together a quilt measuring roughly seven by ten feet. In five sewing sessions, the group brought the project to completion. The quilt was finished in mid-November.

“Everyone was so wonderful with the deadline,” Mimi Eisenmenger expressed. “It was great to see such enthusiasm.” t

1 0 The Catholic News & Herald

January 21, 2000

Around the Di-

King’s dream lives through his legacy, says Catholic priest

By JIMMY ROSTAR Associate Editor WINSTON-SALEM — The civil rights movement in the United States has made tempered progress since the death of Martin Luther King Jr., said an African-American Catholic priest nationally recognized for his commitment to social justice. But, he added, the struggle for racial equality is far from completion, as racism today has become more subtle yet no less damaging to society.

Father George Clements was the keynote speaker at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration Jan. 17. The hour-long service included prayer, music and readings from Scripture. A video presentation of King’s “I Have a Dream” speech — filled with images of the often violent race relations effort — preceded the event. Tears were shed, hands were raised, amens were shouted.

And, in an animated address to his audience, Father Clements further stirred the emotions of those in attendance with words of passion and hope.

Father Clements, who for decades has gained attention as a humanitarian and proponent of social and economic justice, noted that many in the audience were not alive when King was at the forefront of the race relations issue in the United States. “But I assure you this,” he said.

“You are standing on his shoulders right now, whites and blacks.”

He recalled being swept up in un-

Photos by Jimmy Rostar

Father George Clements gives a passionate keynote address on race relations at the Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration. Pictured at right, Sister of St. Joseph Dennis Eileen Gamber, of St. Leo the Great Church in Winston-Salem, embraces Father Clements after she gave the closing blessing. controllable grief on April 4, 1968, the day King was killed in Memphis, Tenn.

Father Clements was living in his hometown of Chicago, and was asked to celebrate a memorial Mass honoring King the next day on the campus of Loyola University.

Grief turned to anger when, driving to the campus, Father Clements encountered a young white motorist who scoffed at the priest’s driving with his headlights on to honor the fallen civil rights leader. The white motorist

laughed at the tribute, uttered a racial slur and sped off, Father Clements said.

The incident was a powerful lesson for the priest on how far things had yet to come in society where race relations were concerned — and, in another way, also reminded him of the legacy King left behind.

“Dr. King would have blessed this man; I cursed him,” said Father Clements. “Dr. King would have forgiven him and would have genuinely embraced him with love.”

That legacy of forgiveness and love is essential in promoting race relations today, said Father Clements, whose own ministry has kept him closely in touch with the oppressed and the marginalized.

The first Catholic priest to adopt a child and the founder of the Black Catholic Clergy Caucus, Father Clements has long blended active service with the ideals of civil rights leaders such as King.

In Chicago, the priest established the adoption program One Church - One Child, which expanded nationwide and has helped place more than 100,000 African-American and biracial children with adoptive families. His concern for the community led him to Washington, D.C., where he founded One Church - One Addict, an interfaith network of church teams who assist people recovering from drug addiction.

More recently, he started One Church - One Inmate in the nation’s capital, a support program that links churches with men and women recently released from prison.

Father Clements said one devastating aspect of today’s race relations effort is that racism, while it still exists, is in many instances hidden.

“Today, everything is so much more subtle, antiseptic, sophisticated, suave, urbane” than in King’s day when it comes to people’s fostering racial injustice, he said. “Today, no one wants

See CLEMENTS, page 20

January 21, 2000

In the

The Catholic News & Herald 11

King’s name on Catholic list of martyrs sparks

By Jerry Filteau Catholic News Service WASHINGTON (CNS) — As Americans prepared to observe the anniversary of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, popular interest was piqued by media reports that the Vatican might declare him as a modern Christian martyr later this year.

The speculation is not entirely accurate. It appears that very few and possibly even no names will actually be announced at the event in question — an ecumenical jubilee year service May 7 at Rome’s Colosseum honoring thousands of 20th-century Catholic and non-Catholic Christians around the world who shed their blood for Christ.

Nor is the event to be anything like the church’s ceremonies formally pronouncing someone blessed or a saint — as is usually implied in discussions of the church declaring someone a martyr.

Even without added hype, though, the bare facts behind the speculation are noteworthy: — When the Vatican asked church officials around the world to submit names of 20th-century martyrs who could be honored for having given up their lives in witness to their faith, it specifically asked them to include

non-Catholics. Many scholars have described this as an unprecedented ecumenical gesture.

— On the short list of about two dozen names submitted by the U.S. bishops was Rev. King, a Baptist minister.

The slain civil rights leader, whose Jan. 15 birthday is commemorated as a national holiday, exemplified nonviolent resistance to racial injustice.

Bishop Wilton D. Gregory of Belleville, Ill., said the wide public interest in the appearance of Rev. King on the bishops’ list of U.S. Christian martyrs “is indicative of the broad general respect that Dr. King enjoys in the United States.”

Bishop Gregory, vice president of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops and head of its Subcommittee on the Third Millennium, spoke with Catholic News Service by telephone shortly before he appeared Jan. 13 on the “CBS Evening News” to comment on the matter.

Rev. King “deeply touched and impacted the life of this nation,” Bishop Gregory told CNS. “He is one of our national heroes.”

“The uniqueness of his approach to social change,” he added, “was bringing together the Christian tradition of nonviolence and love of neigh-

bor, with a deep Christian history as a Baptist preacher and a man of the Word of God, and combining that with his understanding and appreciation of the nonviolent movement so effectively exercised by Mohandas Gandhi.

“It was a wonderful interfaith combination of principles of justice and serving justice in a democratic nation.”

Bishop Gregory declined to release other names the U.S. bishops sent to Rome, saying it would be up to the Holy See to decide how to release the more than 10,000 names submitted from around the world. A Vatican official later told CNS in Rome that there is no intention to publish the names at the May 7 ceremony.

Bishop Gregory noted that people knew of Rev. King’s presence on the U.S. list only because of a CNS story in May 1998 when Archbishop Crescenzio Sepe, secretary for the Vatican jubilee committee, mentioned that Rev. King would be among those listed.

Bishop Gregory said Rev. King “was not the only non-Catholic” on the U.S. bishops’ list.

Paul Henderson, director of the bishops’ national third millennium office, said he received phone calls from

media across the country Jan. 13 after wire services picked up a Boston Globe Page One feature story about the Catholic list naming Rev. King as a martyr.

“It sparked a good amount of interest in both the church’s celebration of new martyrs and Dr. King’s connection to that,” he said. “I think it raises up the fact that at this time we need people to look up to who lived a noble Christian life, who became witnesses, pointers to living out the Gospel, to the point of the supreme sacrifice of their lives.”

Bishop John H. Ricard of Pensacola-Tallahassee, Fla., who like Bishop Gregory is African-American, said he was not involved in putting Rev. King’s name on the list, but he regarded it as a good choice.

“I think it would be based on our experience in the United States of the struggle of African-Americans and all minorities against the oppression of racism. Dr. King personified that struggle,” he said. t

1 2 The Catholic News & Herald

January 21, 2000

Abbey His-

Benedictines hold important place in history of N.C. number. Beyond that, their priestly work was limited mostly to the needs of their students, disparate periods of parish assistance and chaplaincies, and occasions of special need. Thus they covered a wide ministry, but in most of the state they acted primarily as an adjunct to the work of the state’s dedicated body of priests.

Yet the monks always considered their principal priestly service as the readying of North Carolina for full diocesan status. In this effort, AbbotBishop Haid traveled thousands of miles within the state, aiding Catholics, expanding parochial jurisdictions, and administering the sacraments. He went to Europe four times, always returning with promises of the prayers of Benedictines internationally for the work in North Carolina, and with prospects for financial aid and vocations. Then, too, he toured the United States, preaching wherever pastors would allow a second collection to be taken for the benefit of the church and monastery in North Carolina.

Throughout Bishop Haid’s 36 years as bishop, North Carolina claimed to have the most heavily non-Catholic population in the Union. Indeed, it would be the last area east of the Mississippi to receive full diocesan rank.

Yet Bishop Haid’s administration won marked growth: By the time he died in July of 1924, the state’s Catholic population had grown from 2,500 to 8,000; the number of parish churches had increased three-fold; there were three more Catholic hospitals, two or-

phanages, 15 schools, and 40 additional priests.

Thus on Dec. 12, 1924, after five months of deliberations, Rome finally decided that North Carolina was ready for diocesan status. The creation of the Diocese of Raleigh was possible because of the solid foundation afforded by a dedicated clergy, aided by the Benedictines, Sisters of Mercy, members of other religious orders, but especially the fidelity of the Catholic laity.

With the appointment of a nonBenedictine as a state’s bishop, the Benedictines were able to re-focus on monastic life and the order’s schools.

Thus there began a progressive transfer of parochial jurisdictions to diocesan clergy. The principal Benedictine withdrawals occurred in 1941, 1944, 1960, 1969, 1977, and 1989.

Rome gave hearty endorsement to this transition. An Apostolic Letter of 1944 reminded the monks that “the missionary phase of the priests’ life has to be foregone,” and the college at Belmont had to be accepted as their chief apostolic work.

A Papal Exhortation of 1960 was even more explicit, calling for the monk-priests to be “freed from external duty” in order to “devote their entire efforts to the education and formation of youth.”

Then in 1976, Rome issued an Apostolic Instruction defining Belmont Abbey’s true work as the creation of a “living example ... according to the spirit and memory of St. Benedict.”

This, it argued, is “the most excellent

Archive photo

This overhead photo of Belmont Abbey was taken in the 1940s. Several of the buildings shown have since been razed. of all the treasures which the Belmont community will hand on to the new generations of North Carolina.”

In 1975, Belmont’s fifth abbot characterized the Benedictines’ cessation of most external parochial work as “a tribute to the zeal of the earlier monks [and] the surest proof of their having successfully nurtured a fledgling church to full maturity.”

And that, he said, can “only lead to clarity about the peculiar genius of mo-

nastic life and allow us in the years ahead to make an even more significant contribution to the life of the Church in our area than that uncommonly worthwhile one of the last century.” t This story is reprinted with permission from the NC Catholic.

Continued, next page

January 21, 2000

Abbey His-

The Abbots of Belmont The following abbots have led the monastic community at Belmont Abbey since its establishment in the 19th century: Abbot-Bishop Leo Haid, OSB 1885-1924 Abbot-Nullius Vincent Taylor, OSB 1924-1959 Abbot-Nullius Walter Coggin, OSB 1960-1970 Abbot-Nullius Edmund McCaffrey, OSB 1970-1975 Abbot-Nullius Jude Cleary, OSB 1975-1978 Abbot Peter Stragand, OSB 1978-1988 Abbot Oscar Burnett, OSB 1991-1999 Abbot Placid Solari, OSB 2000-

Abbot-Bishop Leo Haid In 1887 the man who had been the state’s first vicar apostolic, Cardinal James Gibbons, proposed that the Benedictine abbot at Belmont oversee the church in North Carolina.Thus Abbot Leo Haid was named vicar apostolic of North Carolina.

By FATHER PASCHAL BAUMSTEIN, OSB Belmont Abbey The Church was slow in gaining a foothold in North Carolina. So serious was this delay that by the 1880s it was urgent that aggressive measures be taken to rectify the situation. The western part of the state in particular suffered from lack of ready access to Catholic priests and the sacraments.

That led Rome to take the unusual step of entrusting the Church in North Carolina to the pastorate of an order of monks. In 1887 the man who had been the state’s first vicar apostolic, Cardinal James Gibbons, proposed that the Benedictine abbot at Belmont oversee the church in North Carolina.

Gibbons reasoned that the abbot had already established permanent residence in the state; his religious order could support him financially, and his monk-priests might assist the other clergy in the state.

Thus Abbot Leo Haid was named vicar apostolic of North Carolina, and, in a significant gesture, Gibbons enthroned the new bishop at both the vicariate’s cathedral in Wilmington (St. Mary) and at the monastery in Belmont.

The Benedictine monastery in Gaston County hosted a college and farm as well, all situated on a campus of 506 acres. Later popularly called Belmont Abbey, the monastery reflected the Benedictines’ permanent commitment to the state. Like all members of their monastic order, these Benedictines even vowed their stability, promising as part of their vocation an on-going allegiance to place as well as purpose. They seemed appropriate coadjutors for North Carolina’s priests.

The Catholic News & Herald 13

From the time of their arrival April 21, 1876, pastoral activities were part of the Benedictines’ work. Gaston County had a church already, but no resident pastor. So local Catholics began attending Mass at the monastery. Monkpriests also traveled to other churches on Sundays, starting with St. James at Concord in Catawba County. The closest non-Benedictine priest was in Charlotte, across the Catawba River from Gaston County.

But there was a problem in staffing the Church in North Carolina with Benedictines. It pertained to vocation.

The Church defined the monks’ calling in terms of life in a monastery.

Primarily, Benedictine priests were ordained for service in what St. Benedict called “the environment of the cloister and stability of the monastic community.”

So the North Carolina Benedictines, from the beginning, understood their pastoral work as an interim rather than as an enduring contribution to the state. A Benedictine’s principle service, they knew, is opus dei, a phrase that means “the work of God,” namely prayer.

The first expansion of the Benedictines’ parochial commitment came in 1891, when Rome gave Belmont’s monks a territory of nine counties in western North Carolina. Within that territory they were assigned to nurture and solidify the Catholic presence for a period of 50 years.

Then, in 1910, the monastery was named a territorial-abbey. That made the Benedictines’ church a cathedral, and gave the monks on-going pastoral jurisdiction within six additional counties, plus three from the previous

1 4 The Catholic News & Herald

January 21, 2000

January 21, 2000

Around the Di-

Abbatial Blessing, from page 1

Bishop Curlin also called to mind the blessings of religious life and the responsibilities of abbot as head of the monastic community.

“It is the abbot’s duty to demonstrate and encourage patience among the members of his religious family,” said Bishop Curlin. “Having himself shared so deeply in Christ’s love, (the abbot) must make it available to each monk in his dealings with him.”

Bishop Curlin, who noted the wealth of spiritual wisdom found in the “Rule of Benedict,” said the sixthcentury saint urged all monks to strive each day for greater holiness.

“St. Benedict recognized that sanctity is not a once-in-a-lifetime commitment; it is a day-by-day recommitment of one’s life to Jesus Christ,” he said.

“It is the responsibility of the abbot to help each monk respond to this challenge generously and wholeheartedly, for without this daily conversion, nothing of lasting value exists in the monastery or within the church.” t Contact Associate Editor Jimmy Rostar by calling (704) 370-3334 or e-mail jtrostar@charlottediocese.org.

Contact Editor Joann Keane by calling (704) 370-3336 or e-mail jskeane@ charlottediocese.org.

Photo by Joann S. Keane

Bishop William G. Curlin celebrates the Rite of Blessing of Abbot Placid Solari, OSB, during a Mass Jan. 15.

Assisting the bishop are Rev. Mr. Tim Rohan and Father Anthony Marcaccio. and noted its rich history in the state.

“For over 125 years, Belmont Abbey has held a special place in the hearts of our two dioceses,” Bishop Curlin said. “During the formative years of our diocesan history, Belmont Abbey, under the leadership of Abbot Leo Haid, nourished the infant Catholic community in North Carolina.”

The Catholic News & Herald 15

Nationally recognized education speakers to address diocesan CHARLOTTE — A pair of nationally recognized Catholic educators will visit Charlotte Feb. 11 to present topics at a Diocese of Charlotte Catholic School religion inservice day, for teachers in Catholic schools across the diocese and others involved in diocesan or parish catechetical and educational ministry.

The in-service day is organized by the director of religious formation for the Catholic Schools Office, Mercy Sister Maureen Meehan. The featured speakers are Father Richard Fragomeni and Dr. Elinor Ford, who will each present a workshop. The event will be at St. Gabriel School, 3028 Providence Rd., from 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Father Fragomeni, who serves on the faculty of the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, will present “The Language of God’s Gifts” as his workshop theme. Father Fragomeni is a lecturer and author, who most recently published “Gifts for a Lifetime: A Sacramental Preparation Series,” a guide for teachers of sacramental preparation.

Dr. Elinor Ford will present the topic “The Next Step: A Quantum and Synergistic Creation.” A popular speaker on national and international catechetical, educational, parish, stewardship, clergy and health care

groups, Ford currently resides in Fairview, N.C. Father Fragomeni will celebrate Mass during the gathering, with music directed by David Anderson from the liturgical publisher GIA. Also featured will be music from the Holy Trinity Catholic Middle School band, directed by Alan Kaufman, who will begin the in-service day with a performance of the band’s “Our Sisters of Mercy

For more information and advance registration, call Sister Maureen Meehan at (704) 370-3268.

Overture.”

In addition to teachers in the diocese’s Catholic schools, pastors, catechists, youth and campus ministers, and others involved in educational and catechetical ministry are invited.

Advance registration is required. t

1 6 The Catholic News & Herald Book Review

January 21, 2000

Read-

Word to Life January 23, Third Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle B Readings: 1) Jonah 3:1-5, 10 Psalm 25:4-9 2) 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 3) Gospel Reading: Mark 1:14-20

CNS photo

A child offers a reflection on prayer and God in a new book compiled by author Dandi Daley MacKall. “Why I Believe in God -- And Other Reflections by Children” contains comments from children ages 5-11.

Author discovers children have precious views of

By Lou Panarale Catholic News Service WASHINGTON (CNS) — “I think God is there,” says Sierra Wood, age 9, “even when I don’t want him there.”

Samantha Jann, also 9, says, “God’s love feels like hot cocoa when you come inside from getting pushed in the snow.”

Sierra’s and Samantha’s visions of God, along with those from scores of other children, are contained in a book called “Why I Believe in God — And Other Reflections by Children” (Prima Publishing, $10.95).

Author Dandi Daley Mackall, who compiled the book, says most children speak honestly when expressing how they see God — a quality rarely found in adults, she added.

Daley Mackall, who describes herself as a nondenominational Christian, has written numerous books and articles for children in the past 20 years.

She compiled material for her book from essays she gathered during a year spent talking to grade school students across the United States, she told Catholic News Service in a telephone interview from Ohio.

Each response is reproduced in the child’s handwriting, sometimes in a barely legible scrawl, replete with spelling and grammatical errors.

She said her cardinal rule when meeting with children was never to laugh at what they told her about how they envisioned God. Daley Mackall recalled the time she met with Elizabeth, 6, who said: “When I grow up, I think God wants me to be a missionary. But what I want is to be somebody who works at the cash register. So maybe I’ll try to be, like a missionary with a cash register.”

Daley Mackall laughed but couldn’t get another word out of Elizabeth because the child felt she wasn’t being taken seriously.

The author said she has learned that most children think deeply about God, regardless of how their responses are viewed by adults.

She recalled the description of God she got from Annie Seis, 6, who wrote: “God’s love feels like he is hugging you with his fur coat on.”

Get past the innocent humor, said Daley Mackall, and you find gems of

See “WHY I BELIEVE...”, page 20

By Jeff Hensley Catholic News Service It was Christmas Day, and the world was bright. The Mass was comfortably full, most having already celebrated our commemoration of Christ’s birth the night before.

Despite Christmas carols, bright decorations, a good homily, and a profound sense of gratitude that my wife and my daughter and I could celebrate this great feast as a family, the Mass proved to be a challenge to our ability to focus.

It’s not necessary to go into the details, but the twin distractions involved extremes of primping, even during the consecration, and a person who had imbibed a bit too much of something other than the spirit of the season.

I have to admit to feelings of irritation and self-righteousness, but in time God, in his infinite patience and generosity, reminded me of my own sinfulness, that we all came into his presence on an equal footing. And so, my focus switched to asking how we could reach out to others with devotion to the cults of beauty and drink so that they might be reached with the Gospel at deeper levels.

Today’s readings from Jonah and Mark carry a particularly appropriate message. Jonah is sent to bring back an entire city, a massive city, not unlike many of our own, from the brink of destruction for their sins. To Jonah’s chagrin, God is successful in using him to do that.

In Mark, Jesus says: “This is the time of fulfillment. The reign of God is at hand! Reform your lives, and believe in the Gospel.” Then he proceeds to call Simon, who would become Peter, Andrew, his brother, and then the brothers James and John, asking them to leave their nets and follow him to fish for men.

Not much has changed. God still has work to do. He calls us to help him, sinners though we are. And he awaits our response. Will we help him bring others to freedom in his love in this year of jubilee? No one can answer that question for us.

Question: Are there nominal Christians around you who need to hear the Gospel at a deeper level? Can you be one book of the Gospel that they “read” through your contact with them?

“Jesus said to them, ‘Come after me; I will make you fishers of men.”’

— Mark 1:17.

Weekly Scripture Readings for the week of Jan. 23 - 29, 2000 Sunday (Third Sunday of Ordinary Time), Jonah 3:1-5, 10, 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Mark 1:14-20; Monday (St. Francis de Sales), 2 Samuel 5:1-7, 10, Mark 3:22-30; Tuesday (The Conversion of Paul), Acts 22:3-16, Mark 16:15-18; Wednesday (Sts. Timothy and Titus), 2 Timothy 1:1-8, Mark 4:1-20; Thursday (St. Angela Merici), 2 Samuel 7:18-19, 24-29, Mark 4:21-25; Friday (St. Thomas Aquinas), 2 Samuel 11:1-4, 5-10, 13-17, Mark 4:26-34; Saturday, 2 Samuel 12:1-7, 10-17, Mark 4:35-41

January 21, 2000

Entertain-

The Catholic News & Herald 17

Italian TV host says Mediaset to produce movie on life of pope

By Benedicta Cipolla Catholic News Service ROME (CNS) — Italian broadcaster Mediaset announced plans to film a television movie on the life of Pope John Paul II, with Ben Kingsley as the pontiff.

Mediaset talk show host and producer Maurizio Costanzo made the surprise announcement Jan. 14 at a company conference in Orvieto, Italy.

Company officials were reportedly trying to reunite “Gandhi” star Kingsley and director Sir Richard Attenborough for the project.

Costanzo said Ettore Bernabei, the president of the Italian production

company Lux Vide and former head of Italian state television RAI, would produce the film.

But Costanzo seemed to jump the gun in making the announcement, as the project has yet to receive the Vatican’s stamp of approval.

While Costanzo said the Vatican had already given its go-ahead, Matilde Bernabei, Lux’s chief executive officer, said in the Italian newspaper La Repubblica, “We have neither asked for nor obtained authorization from the Vatican.”

The Vatican has not issued any comment on the film.

“Up until now, we have received

no request (for authorization,” Msgr.

Enrique Planas Coma of the Pontifical Council for Social Communications told La Repubblica.

Bernabei remained optimistic, telling Reuters she was confident an agreement would be reached with the Vatican. Discussions with Kingsley and Attenborough were already under way, she said.

The choice of Kingsley for the role of such an important religious figure should come as no surprise to Italian television viewers. The British actor played Moses in a 1996 Mediaset television production.

But Kingsley is best known for his

“Runaway Virus” threatens a flu pandemic

By Gerri Pare Catholic News Service NEW YORK (CNS) — A deadly flu virus threatens to repeat the worldwide devastation of 1918 in the bland medical thriller, “Runaway Virus,” airing Saturday, Jan. 29, 9-11 p.m. EST on ABC. Scientists monitoring flu outbreaks around the globe from Atlan“Runaway Virus” Jan. 29, 9-11 p.m. EST on ABC ta’s Centers for Disease Control begin to worry when pigs in a Guatemalan village keel over, and a local boy also dies after exhibiting flu symptoms similar to those in the 1918 pandemic.

Epidemiologist Dr. Dan Rothman (Jason Beghe) is sent to investigate, confirms the dreaded disease killed the boy and quarantines the villagers since no vaccine exists.

However, he is alarmed to discover the victim’s engaged sister, Rita (Jacqueline Aries), who held the dying child in her arms, had already left,

hoping to bus or hitchhike through Mexico then illegally smuggle herself across the U.S. border to join her fiance in Los Angeles.

When those whose paths she crosses quickly sicken and die it becomes imperative to find her — and produce a vaccine lest the flu spread with deadly speed across the continent.

This is where Centers for Disease Control Dr. Jenny Blanchard (Paige Turco) comes into the picture with her long-shot idea to unearth five Siberian miners who perished from the pandemic in 1918 and whose frozen, preserved bodies may still contain the flu strain necessary to manufacture the vaccine. As she heads for the Siberian burial site, the manhunt intensifies to locate Rita before she reaches the heavily populated City of Angels.

Directed by Jeff Bleckner, the movie follows a thoroughly predictable track as the scientists race against time to capture and isolate Rita while mass producing an effective vaccine. As such, suspense is minimal. t Pare is director of the U.S. Catholic Conference Office for Film and Broadcasting.

1982 Oscar-winning portrayal of the Indian nonviolent revolutionary Mahatma Gandhi, whom the current pope greatly admires.

If he accepts Mediaset’s offer, Kingsley can draw on personal experience as well: He met the pope in September 1998 at an audience.

The proposed film on the Polish pope would be part of a Mediaset series on important figures of the 20th century.

Mediaset said it was also planning television movies on Pope John XXIII, Adolf Hitler, Benito Mussolini and Microsoft founder Bill Gates as part of the series. t

Movies Online

Can’t remember how a recent film was classified by the USCC? Want to know whether to let the kids go see it? Now you can look film reviews up on America Online. Once you’re connected to AOL, just use the keyword CNS to go to Catholic News Service’s online site, then look for movie reviews.

Out on video

“Bowfinger” (1999) Goofy comedy in which a desperate Hollywood director (Steve Martin) secretly shoots footage of a top action star (Eddie Murphy) to use in his sci-fi-alien movie, but the star’s paranoid fear of alien invaders complicates the plan. Directed

by Frank Oz from Martin’s script, the movie affectionately lampoons Tinseltown pretensions with Murphy and Martin in top form. Comic depiction of a promiscuous starlet, a few crude expressions and an instance of rough language. The U.S. Catholic Conference classification is A-III — adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 — parents are strongly cautioned that some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Universal) “An Ideal Husband” (1999) Oscar Wilde’s 1895 drawing-room comedy of manners finds a rising London politician (Jeremy Northam) in danger of losing his career and adored wife (Cate Blanchett) unless a spoiled bachelor ally (Rupert Everett) distracted by a new love interest (Minnie Driver) can outwit a blackmailing femme fatale (Julianne Moore). Writer-director Oliver Parker’s pokily paced adaptation is visually and verbally elegant with an able ensemble cast skewering the era’s social pretensions.

Fleeting nudity and sexual innuendo, references to fraud and deceitful behavior.

The U.S. Catholic Conference classification is A-III — adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 — parents are strongly cautioned that some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Buena Vista Home Entertainment)

1 8 The Catholic News & Herald

January 21, 2000

Editorials & Col-

The Pope Speaks

POPE JOHN PAUL II

Pope says in new millennium, Christians must pray for unity

By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Christians must look forward to the third millennium with sorrow for their divisions and with prayers for greater unity, Pope John Paul II said.

Ecumenical activities, joint projects and common prayers for Christian unity are a fundamental part of the Holy Year, the pope said Jan. 16.

The pope used his midday Angelus address in St. Peter’s Square to call visitors’ attention to the Jan. 18-25 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.

Pope John Paul and representatives from more than 20 Orthodox, Anglican and Protestant churches and organizations were scheduled to begin the week together with a prayer service at the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls.

“We will ask God’s pardon and each other’s for the sins committed against the unity of the church and, at the same time, we will give thanks for the journey of reconciliation already completed, especially in the last century,” the pope said during his Angelus address.

Pope John Paul asked all Christians to join him and the church representatives in praying “so that the beginning of the third millennium may see a promising development in ecumenical relations.”

The pope said, “Only with God’s help is it possible to advance on the road of unity, overcoming the divisions created in the Christian world over the course of the second millennium.”

Meeting Jan. 17 with an ecumenical delegation from Christian churches in Finland, the pope said the opening of the Holy Door at St. Paul’s Basilica as part of Christian unity week was meant to emphasize the fact that Christ “is the doorway into life.”

“As we pass through the Holy Door, may we take another step closer to the unity in Christ which Peter and Paul proclaimed, and which the Lord himself so clearly wills,” the pope told the Finnish delegation.

Pope, Christian leaders ask forgiveness for Christian division ROME (CNS) — Pope John Paul II opened the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity kneeling in the doorway of a Rome basilica, flanked by the head of the worldwide Anglican Communion and by an Orthodox prelate. “We ask Christ’s forgiveness for all which in the history of the church compromised his plan of unity,” the pope said during the Jan. 18 service in the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. The service began with the opening of the basilica’s Holy Door, the oldest in Rome. Anglican Archbishop George Carey of Canterbury, England, and Orthodox Metropolitan Athanasios of Helioupolis and Theira, a representative of the Ecumenical Orthodox Patriarchate, joined Pope John Paul in pushing open the door.

Ordeal of a simple man It’s sad how often people who are “different” become victims of misunderstanding and downright prejudice. The uncomfortable reality of this hit home last year for Mike Fitzpatrick, a man in his late 40s impaired since birth with autism, a condition manifested by introverted behavior, repetitive gestures, retreating into a fantasy world and sometimes irrational actions.

Fitzpatrick, with the consistent, loving help of his parents, Anne and Bill, has grown into a functioning, responsible, working adult. Yet he was charged last year with robbing a bank in Ontario County, near DeWitt, N.Y., where they live. In spite of flimsy evidence, police insisted they “had their man,” and Fitzpatrick faced years in prison. It was a tormenting, fearful time for him and his parents.

Fortunately, the man who actually robbed the bank — to support his drug and gambling habits — confessed, and eventually the police, albeit reluctantly, had to free Fitzpatrick.

His story was told on TV’s “20-20” show in December 1999, with sensitivity and truth, titled movingly “A Simple Man.” I was glued to the set as I watched. I had a very personal interest in this story, for I knew Fitzpatrick as a baby and a little tyke. His father, a teacher, and mother, a writer, have been my friends for nearly 50 years. I can’t think of people I respect and admire more. Two words come to mind when I think of, or talk to, them: “love” and “faith.” These qualities have characterized their lives.

I first met Anne Fitzpatrick in 1952 when we both belonged to a fledgling writer’s group. We were young Catholics, newly married, with a determination to become published writers. I was already a mother, with an infant, Paul, and a teen-age adopted son, Sterling. She was pregnant, and the couple were overjoyed when their son was born. But as he grew, it soon became evident that his behavior was baffling.

Before long, he was diagnosed with autism.

Family Reflections Andrew & Terri Lyke Guest Columnists

“Ring” “Check” “Tux” “Check” “License” “Uh . . .”

Somehow, they had misplaced the marriage license. The very last place they remembered seeing it was at McDonald’s on Barry’s serving tray. They rushed back to the restaurant to find that the trash containers had been emptied in the dumpster.

Reminiscent of a scene from “I Love Lucy,” Arnold and Barry, inside the garbage dumpster, searched through bag after bag of trash. Just as all hope of finding the marriage license was all but gone, Arnold found it unsoiled as he opened the last bag.

These stories report extraordinary human effort. But they also tell about that something else that makes the unlikely happen. Call it luck; call it serendipity; call it grace. What these stories report to us, in humorous contexts, are faith adventures. When we are willing to do the extraordinary, even against great odds, good things happen. How true this is of marriage, huh?

The Bottom Line ANTOINNETTE BOSCO CNS Columnist

All parents undergo great pain when a child is not “perfect.” But the Fitzpatricks, putting their trust in the Lord, learned all they could about this malady so that they could help their son and other children like him.

The couple’s faithful labor bore fruit. Today they have a son who has worked 29 years as a custodian in their school district, who is a friend to everybody, and is surprisingly independent. On the “20-20” show, Mike Fitzpatrick’s supervisor had nothing but praise for this “simple man,” saying he always had done his work, and expressing surprise that the police could not see how impossible it would have been for him to rob a bank.

“We knew he was innocent. We thought all we’d have to do was call and tell the police Mike is ‘impaired,’ but that didn’t stop them,” his mother told me. “My word didn’t mean anything. The whole experience was horrible.”

Yet, now the Fitzpatricks believe some good can come from this travesty of justice. “Perhaps as a result there can be more awareness of people like Mike and more advocacy for people who are different. A lot of prayer got us through,” his mother said, adding that she believes that even in her lowest moment “the Lord touched me on the shoulder.”

Wedding day mishaps Now and then, we hear stories about how someone proposed marriage, a mishap on the wedding day, or how “divine intervention” prevented a simple mistake from being a disaster. There are two stories we’d like to share that fit into this category.

Rosie and Rusty were married last August in New Orleans. Rusty, on the day he proposed, in his excitement with getting the engagement ring for Rosie, received it from the jeweler without a case and put it in his pocket. Entering his car he casually removed his keys from the same pocket, unlocked the car, entered it, started it, and drove off.

Arriving at home to get ready for the big date, Rusty discovered, to his chagrin, that Rosie’s ring wasn’t in his pocket. Retracing his tracks with trepidation, he eventually returned to where he had parked his car earlier. A truck was parked in the same spot.

Rusty suddenly saw a glimmer of light beneath the truck. He thought, “Perhaps it is the ring!” Oblivious to any onlookers, Rusty immediately leaped out of his car and dove under the truck, grasping at the tiny, scintillating object. To his surprise and relief, the glimmering object was the ring, intact with only a small scratch.

They decided not to repair the ring. The scratch was a lasting reminder of a story about which they have shared many laughs.

Arnold and Marvia were married in Atlanta in January of 1994. Arnold and his best man, Barry, on the morning of the wedding, were out tending to last minute details. While eating a quick breakfast at McDonald’s, they carefully went over a checklist of items. Arnold handed the marriage license to Barry for safe-keeping as he checked it on his list.

Later that morning as they returned to the checklist, Arnold and Barry, in a call and response manner, ran through their litany:

Send Letters to the Editor to Joann S. Keane, The Catholic News & Herald, 1123 South Church St., Charlotte, NC 28203 or e-mail jskeane@charlottediocese.org.

January 21, 2000

Editorials & Col-

Light One Candle FATHER THOMAS J. McSWEENEY Guest Columnist To belong to God means using your free will to choose God’s will. In experiencing God’s presence in prayer, you no longer need personal ambition or achievements for comfort. You do not have to fear being an “unprofitable servant” rather than a “faithful servant.” Through grace, you will be God’s loving child, just as you are His deeply loved one, already.

Prayer is prayer if you want it to be. Ask yourself: “What do I really want when I pray?” Do you want to belong to God? Do you even want to want it? If you desire this communion, this belonging to one another, then you are praying. That is all prayer is. There are no secrets, no shortcuts. Prayer is the utterly ruthless test of your sincerity. It is the one place in all the world where there is nowhere to hide.

Prayer is the last thing you should feel discouraged about. It concerns nobody except God — always longing to give Himself to you in love — and your own decision. God always whispers, “I love you.

I want you — but do you want Me?” That wanting is ever the crux of the matter.

Father Thomas J. McSweeney is director of The Christophers.

quested, is of course one of the consequences of the marriage covenant.

This right is, in effect, refused in marriage consent if one party (or both) intends to restrict intercourse in such a way that conception of children will never take place.

For the sake of clarity, we must distinguish this intention permanently to eliminate children from the marriage from that of many couples today who plan to delay having children for awhile.

Apart from the wisdom and perhaps moral implications of this sort of planning, such an intention, since it does not exclude children for the rest of their lives, does not invalidate a marriage.

Patron saints of dementia Q. So many elderly people today are developing Alzheimer’s disease. Have there ever been saints who suffered a mental illness, or would that prevent their being canonized? Is there a particular patron saint for those who have dementia or other mental problems?

A. Many people now honored as saints suffered from clinical depression and other varieties of severe mental or emotional illness, sometimes for nearly their entire lives.

This would create no obstacle to their being venerated as saints. Just as with a physical illness or handicap, all depends on the faith, hope, patience and charity they showed in their lives in spite of the limitations they experienced.

The saint whose prayers are most commonly invoked for mental diseases is St. Dympna, a Belgian lady who lived in the seventh century. When her body was rediscovered in the 13th century, it is alleged that many people with emotional and mental handicaps were healed through her intercession.

Her remains are preserved in a church in Antwerp, where an excellent sanitarium exists for the care of mental patients. Her feast is May 15.

Questions may be sent toFather John Dietzen, Box 325, Peoria, Ill. 61651, or e-mail jjdietzen@aol.com.

Prayer: The “Simplest Thing” One year — I forget just when — the Lenten sermons at St. Patrick’s in New York were given by a famous Jesuit who took prayer for his theme. His efforts were much admired, but the compliment that stuck in his memory was that of an old priest who praised the Jesuit for the great length and number of his sermons. Then, nudging him in the ribs, he whispered conspiratorially “Actually, Father, for all we make of it, prayer is the simplest thing.”

I suspect the illustrious preacher did know, though the simplicity of prayer, its sheer, startling uncomplicatedness, seems to be the last thing that strikes most of us.

It is not difficult to intellectualize about prayer.

Like love, beauty and motherhood, it triggers a flow of eloquent and pious expressions. It is not difficult, but it is often futile.

I just finished culling about 20 different articles on prayer — some scholarly, some popular — in the hopes of finding some fuel for this column. And I have concluded that you really can have too much of a good thing.

Writing about prayer, reading about prayer, talking about prayer, thinking about prayer, longing for prayer and wrapping yourself more and more in sublime abstractions can — if carried too far — set up a barrier. They can create a smoke screen that allows you to put God on hold while you analyze the subject to death.

What about actually praying?!

“Lord, teach us to pray.” Jesus never seems to contemplate giving a theological answer, going into the question of what prayer is and what our dispositions should be. If you ask Jesus a question, you get an immediate working reply. Not “to get ready to pray,” but “When you pray, say: ‘Father.’” (Luke 11:1-2) Jesus teaches that prayer is above all your response to God as His child. You stand alone before God, and what happens? You understand that you belong to God, your Father — and He belongs to you. And that this is the purpose of life.

Question Corner FATHER JOHN DIETZEN CNS Columnist

When they both don’t want children Q. I am 31 years of age and want to marry a man who is 34. I am a teacher, he is a social worker. Both of us are practicing Catholics.

We believe we can do more good in our careers than in raising a family, but the priest we saw said that our marriage must be open to children.

We want to marry for mutual support. Do we really have to try to have a family in order to marry in the church?

A. According to Catholic teaching, and age-old Christian tradition, being willing to accept children, is an essential component of marriage.

It is true, of course, that the mutual support and caring love between the husband and wife are also essential for a true marriage, but our belief is that these two elements are inseparable.

The communion of life and love that exists between the couple nourishes them, and by natural inclination moves them toward the procreation and nourishment of the children who might come into their lives. The intention and willingness to fulfill both of these elements is essential for a valid marriage.

Perhaps it helps to see this in the perspective of sexual intercourse in marriage. The right to sexual relations, when reasonably and appropriately re-

The Catholic News & Herald 19

Coming of Age AMY WELBORN CNS Columnist Combating abortion Abortion isn’t a subject anyone likes to discuss. But this time of year it tends to come up. Perhaps your radar has taken in some of the signs: a pro-life march in Washington, protests or programs in your local area, extra prayers at Mass or maybe even a homily or lesson plan devoted to this difficult, tragic topic.

If you’re wondering why, and why now, it’s simple: Jan. 22 was the date, in 1973, that the Supreme Court declared that individual states couldn’t make laws prohibiting or even strictly limiting abortion anymore. Up to that time, abortion had been legal only in a few states for limited times during pregnancy and for serious, documented reasons.

But in “Roe vs. Wade,” our Supreme Court threw all of those laws out and declared that states couldn’t limit abortion unless a woman’s life or health was in danger. And then it said that “health” included things like emotional distress.

In the United States, abortion is legal for any reason through all nine months of pregnancy.

Period. We have the most permissive abortion laws in the West. Tragically, this is what you’ve grown up with. You were born into a society in which killing unborn babies is protected as a right and profited from as a business.

The Centers for Disease Control recently reported a slight decline in abortion rates, but the numbers are still pretty staggering: well over 1 million a year. The thought of it can be overwhelming. In the face of such a massive problem, we can sometimes feel helpless.

Even if you’re 20. Even if you’re 15 or even 12, you can do something to spread the message of life. Here are five simple suggestions: 1) Educate yourself. Find out about the stages of human development before birth and why scientists agree that at conception a unique human life begins. Find out what abortion does to that life and how it affects women as well.

2) Don’t be afraid to voice your opinion, and don’t allow yourself to be put on the defensive. When you’re talking about this with acquaintances who support abortion, don’t let them back down from the question of when life begins or why in the world they think it’s OK for defenseless human beings to be attacked in the womb. Those who protect life don’t need to feel defensive; those who seek to take it do.

3) Be a loving witness to the sacredness of all life. Treat everyone you meet with respect.

Don’t reject those who have struggled with this.

Don’t gossip about girls who get pregnant unexpectedly. Love.

4) Go to the local pro-life office, and ask what you can do to help. Believe me, they have something for you to do!

5) Pray. Pray for the girls your age — the girls in your town, in your school and in your class — who right now, this very moment, are confronting this quite terrible dilemma in the most personal way. And pray for their babies and their boyfriends as well.

So think about it. You’re probably a pretty idealistic person, and are always looking for ways that you can help make life on earth ever more beautiful, harmonious and caring.

2 0 The Catholic News & Herald

In the

Clements, from page 10 to be called a racist.”

He noted that while “the struggle goes on,” there is “a far higher percentage of whites on our side today than we ever had on our side” in the past. “And let’s face it,” he added. “The struggle will not be won without our white brothers and sisters joining in.”

To the white members of the audience, Father Clements said that by their very presence in that auditorium, “we know you are on the side of social justice.” He said that whites who have stood in defiance of racism “have struggled for us, and it’s time for us to let them know how we feel about them.

We call them God-lovers, because they truly recognize that we are brothers and sisters.”

Father Clements led a standing ovation for the progress towards unity

between the races. Then, everyone in the auditorium stood side by side and, at the priest’s direction, turned to one another to exchange hugs and a message of oneness: “God loves you, and so do I.” In a closing prayer, Sister of St. Joseph Dennis Eileen Gamber reiterated Father Clements’ — and Dr. King’s — longing for racial and social peace. “Our brother, Dr. Martin Luther King, by his example was a healing presence in all situations,” said Sister Dennis, at St. Leo the Great church in Winston-Salem.

“Dr. King saw visions of larger truths, and dared to declare them.” t Contact Associate Editor Jimmy Rostar at (704) 370-3334, or e-mail jtrostar@charlottediocese.org.

“Why I Believe...” from page 16 wisdom in children’s words, some of which she has found useful in her own hectic life.

During her visit to an elementary school, Zachary, 8, told her, “Everybody should spend more time with God. Don’t just talk to him on business.”

“At that time,” Daley Mackall told CNS, “I was near exhaustion, hopping from city to city, gathering material for my book. Zachary’s words were just what I needed to hear.”

She said the innocent visions children once had about God are often lost on their journey to adulthood but they are alive and well in the children of today. t

Abbot Placid Solari

Our Lady of Consolation Catholic Church Congratulates you on your election to serve your Brother monks as Abbot of Belmont Abbey.

Our Lady of Consolation 2301 Statesville Ave. Charlotte, NC 28206 Fr. Judy Duffy, OFM Cap. Pastor Fr. Martin Schratz, OFM Cap. Parochial Vicar

January 21, 2000

January 21, 2000

In the

The Catholic News & Herald 21

Faith is powerful weapon for undercover agent stomach cancer.

At the time, Szatkowski was working as a broadcast journalist in Madison. He was married and until his father’s illness he felt as if everything was just as it should be.

His father died, and less than a year later his mother, Lucy, was hospitalized when her diabetes spun out of control. She seemed to improve, but died of a heart attack.

Szatkowski had to face his anger, his grief, and the loss of the guiding hand of his mother.

He and his wife had a baby, a daughter, and he left journalism to become an FBI agent, but that didn’t work out. Szatkowski said he kept going to church but it was only a gesture to make his wife happy.

Eventually he found his way back into law enforcement with the Wisconsin Department of Justice, where he found a profession that he loved.

He and his wife had another child, a son, and then his faith journey got back on track, while he was preparing for a difficult murder-for-hire trial and his daughter was preparing for her first Communion.

“I thought there was something missing in my heart about my daughter’s first Communion,” Szatkowski recalled. “I had not been to weekday Mass in about 10 years, but on that morning, I thought I would give the church another chance and when the priest began Mass by announcing the feast of St. Stanislaus, the patron saint of Poland, I knew that God was sending me a message. I was overcome with emotion and received Communion that day with a renewed sense of faith.”

Since then, Szatkowski has relied on his faith in both his personal and professional life.

The Szatkowski family traveled to St. Louis to see the pope in early 1999 and Szatkowski also has visited with the pontiff in Rome.

“Both were incredible, faith-instilling experiences,” he said. t

By Kris Radish Catholic News Service OCONOMOWOC, Wis. (CNS) — Eric Szatkowski lives in a world of crime, corruption and callousness that would more than shake the faith of most people, but he has learned to use his belief in God as the most powerful weapon he carries.

Szatkowski, 38, is a special agent for the Wisconsin Department of Justice. His days and nights are filled with the crimes that often lead off the nightly news. He investigates murders, arrests sexual predators and has developed the unique specialty of posing as an undercover hit man.

When a disgruntled woman wants to kill her husband or a husband puts out the word that he is looking for someone to kill his wife, Szatkowski is the man who slicks back his hair, drives through the night, and poses as a hired killer.

“My Catholic faith is a very important part of my life and what I do for a living,” said Szatkowski, who with his family is an active member of a parish within the Milwaukee Archdiocese.

“I really don’t think that I could do what I do day in and day out if I did not have a strong faith,” he told the Catholic Herald in an interview conducted in Oconomowoc.

Holding to that faith has not always been easy for Szatkowski. He spent years being angry at God. “Today I truly believe that God cares about me and my family,” he said.

“I really do feel as if God has a plan for me, and it’s a plan that I follow very eagerly.”

As a young boy growing up in the Milwaukee area, Szatkowski attended weekly Mass with his parents, was an altar boy and attended the parish school.

He said his Polish Catholic upbringing was important to him, but in 1985, his faith was shaken. He watched his father, Waclaw — a Polish immigrant who survived the Nazi regime — die a slow and painful death from

2 2 The Catholic News & Herald

Around the

January 21, 2000

‘Rally for Unity’ draws 50,000 marchers to S. Carolina capital

By Jordan McMorrough Catholic News Service COLUMBIA, S.C. (CNS) — Nearly 50,000 people converged on South Carolina’s state capital Jan. 17 in an effort to have the Confederate battle flag relocated from atop the Statehouse dome in Columbia.

It was a mosaic of all races and faiths, young and elderly, grandparents walking beside young adults pushing babies in strollers, but it was still a mainly African-American crowd gathered for a march and rally against what some see as a symbol of racism and others see as a symbol of states’ rights.

The flag was raised in 1962 to commemorate the Civil War centennial, and South Carolina is the only state to still fly the Confederate battle flag over its Statehouse.

Another issue of concern for many of the demonstrators is that South Carolina is also the last state to not officially celebrate the birthday of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. “King Day at the Dome: A Rally for Unity” exceeded even the most optimistic predictions of event organizers, who over the weekend were hoping for a turnout of about 20,000.

Among the sponsors for the gathering was the South Carolina Christian Action Council, or SCCAC, of which the Diocese of Charleston is one of 16 member bodies, representing 2 million people statewide.

The SCCAC has been on record to oppose the flying of the Confederate

ClassiEMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Archivist: Archdiocese of Atlanta. Full-time position for individual meeting the following requirements: master’s degree in library science; archival management or related field; 3 to 5 years’ experience in archival work; extensive knowledge of Catholic church; computer literacy (MARC AMC format and programs related to library/archival cataloging); exceptional written and spoken communication skills. Salary commensurate with credentials and experience. Please submit resume and cover letter with salary requirements to: Zoe Johnson, 680 W. Peachtree St. NW, Atlanta, GA 30308. Fax (404) 885-7494. E-mail: zjohnson@ archatl.com.

Archivist: Diocese of Savannah, Georgia.

Qualifications: Master’s degree in related field, or equivalent; extensive knowledge of the Catholic Church; minimum three years’ relevant archival background including computer expertise; suitable organizational skills; demonstrated ability to work collegially; excellent communications skills; ability to travel. For job description and application contact Archivist Search Committee, Catholic Pastoral Center, 601 E. Liberty St., Savannah, GA 314015196; fax (912)238-2339; e-mail Cooper0987@ aol.com.

Director of Development for Campus Ministry: The Diocesan Office of Development has an opening for a part-time director of development for Campus Ministry. The candidate must be a college graduate with a degree in marketing, communications or related field. Appropriate experience in fund raising and marketing may be substituted for education. Responsibilities include managing the annual giving campaigns, handling all aspects of production of newsletters and annual reports, and serving as liaison to diocesan and regional boards.

Please submit resume by February 18, 2000 to Jim Kelley, Office of Development, 1123 South Church Street, Charlotte, NC 28203-4003.

Director of Faith Formation: Growing 450-family parish in Raleigh, NC, is seeking a full-time Director of Faith Formation. Responsible for directing pre-K through high school faith forma-

flag over the Statehouse dome since 1986.

“We are at a very important point in South Carolina history,” said Julia Sibley-Juras, director of ministries of justice and reconciliation for the council.

“I think that is evident by the diversity of groups that have come together to work on this one effort,” she continued. “This coalition represents the voice of the people. I think as Christians, we are called upon to witness our faith ... to impact the common good.”

Among other sponsoring organizations for the rally were the African Methodist Episcopal Church, the Baptist Educational and Missionary Convention, the United Methodist Church, the SC Progressive Network, United 2000, the National Urban League, and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.

The NAACP has launched an economic boycott against the tourism industry in the Palmetto State to try and force political leaders to stop flying the Confederate battle flag over the capitol.

In observance of the NAACP’s boycott, many out-of-state participants in the event stayed at Columbiaarea churches to avoid giving business to local hotels.

Marchers began converging at Zion Baptist Church in the early morning hours prior to the noon rally at the Statehouse, and the crowd just kept

tion process and oversight of RCIA process and adult formation. Includes oversight of volunteer coordinators of formation processes for baptism, reconciliation, eucharist, RCIA, and adult Bible Study. Also includes collaboration with parish Faith Formation Council. Strong people and communication skills a must, especially with middle and high school level youth. M.A. in religious education or theology, or equivalent education and experience required. Salary mid-30s, commensurate with qualifications and experience. Also diocesan benefits packages. Send resume and references to: Search Committee, St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic Church, 12333 Bayleaf Church Rd., Raleigh, NC 27614.

Director of Liturgy: Opportunity to serve full-time in welcoming, prayerful community as the primary developer and coordinator of parish liturgical life.

Vatican II community, 1900 families in central North Carolina. Reports to the Pastor. Works closely with clergy, director of music ministries, staff. Requires Master’s degree or equivalent, knowledge of church rites and rituals; empowering, collaborative, pastoral; music skills a welcome plus. Immediate opening, latest start July 1, 2000; salary commensurate with education and experience. Benefits package included.

Send resume to: DOL Search Committee, St. Paul the Apostle Church, 2715 Horse Pen Creek Rd., Greensboro, NC 27410. Phone (336)294-4696; Fax (336)294-6149.

Director of Music Ministry: Opportunity to serve full-time in welcoming, prayerful community as the primary coordinator of music for all parish liturgies. Reports to the Pastor. Vatican II community; 1900 families I central North Carolina. Coordinates with director of liturgy in planning liturgical music; works closely with clergy and staff. Requires master’s degree or equivalent; must have music performance skills (e.g., piano, voice); choral directing, cantor training; knowledge of Catholic rites and rituals. Available no later than July 1, 2000. Salary commensurate with education and experience.

Benefits package included. Send resume to: DOMM Search Committee, St. Paul the Apostle Church, 2715 Horse Pen Creek Rd., Greensboro, NC 27419. Phone (336)294-4696; Fax (336)284-6149.

Music Director/Organist: Roman Catholic Church of the Most Holy Trinity, 720 Telfair Street, P. O. Box 2446, Augusta, GA 30903. (706)722-4944. www. themostholytrinity.org. Full-time position for experienced organist/choir director. Music degree with

Photo by Jordan McMorrough, New Catholic Miscellany

A girl holds a sign high above the tens of thousands of marchers at the Rally for Unity Jan. 17 in Columbia, S.C. The rally was held to focus attention on an effort to remove the Confederate battle flag from atop the Statehouse. growing.

Step-off for the six block march began at 11 a.m., with many holding banners or placards and others singing in small groups, but by noon only a little more than half the marchers had made their way to the end of the route.

Primary speakers at the almost three-hour rally were Kweisi Mfume, president and CEO of the NAACP, and Hugh B. Price, president and CEO of the National Urban League.

However, among the roster of presenters on the steps of the Statehouse were many religious leaders.

Catholic Bishop Robert J. Baker of Charleston was in Rome and was unable to attend the gathering. However, in a Jan. 10 letter sent to all pastors and pastoral administrators of the diocese, the bishop urged all to take part “or otherwise promote the success of this important event.”

The bishop also referred to his Nov. 22 letter sent to all of the faithful of the diocese.

In it he stated: “We Catholics understand the power of symbols. Our religious heritage, our worship, even our buildings are all a rich treasury of symbols. We know that symbols used well can inspire faith and good works, but used inappropriately they can divide and destroy.

“Whatever symbols we use to represent us should reflect the identities, aspirations, and hopes of all the people of the great state of South Carolina.”

He added that whatever symbolic meaning the Confederate battle flag has for people, “it is clear that the placement of the flag above the chambers of our state government will not unite us for common good but will continue to foster division and cripple our future.” t

Classified ads bring results! Over 104,000 readers! Over 42,000 homes!

Rates: $.50/word per issue ($10 minimum per issue) Deadline: 12 noon Wednesday, 9 days before publication date How to order: Ads may be faxed to (704) 370-3382 or mailed to: Cindi Feerick, The Catholic News & Herald, 1123 S. Church St., Charlotte, NC 28203.

Payment: Ads may be pre-paid or billed. For information, call (704) 370-3332. be a highly motivated and organized individual with skill and experience in keyboard, choral, and vocal.

Experience in Catholic Liturgy helpful. Computer skills desirable. Salary commensurate with education/experience. Send resume and cover letter to: St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Attention:Music Minister Search Committee, 9505 Gayton Road, Richmond, VA 23229 or FAX (804)740-2197.

Youth/Young Adult Minister: Holy Redeemer Roman Catholic Community in the coastal area of the Outer Banks, NC is seeking an energetic, motivated, spiritual individual to cultivate and implement programs for a growing faith community. Candidate should be a practicing Catholic and possess a B.A. in Theology, Youth Ministry, or related field. Spanish as a second language and musical ability helpful. Salary negotiable with benefits package. Position available summer of 2000. Application deadline March 1, 2000. Send resume to: Holy Redeemer Catholic Parish, Att: Very Rev. Michael Butler, V.F. Pastor, Youth Minister Search Committee. P.O. Box 510, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949-0510.

Youth/Young Adult Ministry Director: Diocese of Savannah, Georgia. Qualifications: Master’s degree in youth ministry or related field; at least five years of relevant experience; status as practicing Catholic in good standing; demonstrated organizational skills.

Also requires significant travel and strength in oral and written communication. For job description and application form contact Youth Ministry Search Committee, Catholic Pastoral Center, 601 E. Liberty St., Savannah, GA 31401-5196; fax(912)238-2339; e-mail Cooper0987@aol.com.

concentration on organ preferred. Choral direction, vocal skills and knowledge of Catholic liturgical tradition important for weekend Masses, school Masses, weddings, funerals. Large traditional choir, small Gospel choir, bell choir, children’s choir, and cantors. Worship III hymnal. Oldest Catholic Church building in Georgia, Romanesque style, with fully restored 1868 Jardine Tracker pipe organ, 2 Manuals/29 Ranks, Mechanical Action, on Organ Historical Society’s “exceptional historic merit” list.

1300-family downtown parish with cathedral-like liturgical qualities, ethnically diverse. Competitive salary and benefits package offered. Send resume, references, salary history and demo tape to Rev. Allan J. McDonald at above address. Position available March 1, 2000.

Music Minister: Holy Redeemer Roman Catholic Community in the coastal area of the Outer Banks, NC is seeking an energetic, motivated, spiritual individual to develop a music program for a growing faith community. Candidate should be a practicing Catholic. Responsibilities will include: Choir Director, development of cantors, weekend liturgies, weddings, funerals, etc. Knowledge of organ, piano, and other instruments. Ability to work with children helpful. Salary negotiable with benefits package. Position available summer of 2000. Application deadline March 1, 2000. Send resume to: Holy Redeemer Catholic Parish, Att: Very Rev. Michael Butler, V.F., Pastor, Music Minister Search Committee. P.O. Box 510, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949-0510.

Music Minister: St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Richmond, Virginia, a growing and diverse community (1,700 families) seeks a full-time Minister of Music. Responsibilities include: planning and preparation for all Sunday and Sacramental Liturgies for the parish and school community and coordination of our parish adult, children, teen, and handbell choirs. The successful candidate will

January 21, 2000

Around the Di-

The Catholic News & Herald 23

Belmont Abbey College is home away from home for its

By Alesha M. Price Staff Writer BELMONT — Addy Jean Mullis, a former student of Sacred Heart College in Belmont, attended classes at Belmont Abbey College from 1976 to 1980. Not only did she receive her degree; she also met her husband and returned to the college to work.

Born in Puerto Rico, Mullis came to the United States to enroll in Sacred Heart College, but took classes at Belmont Abbey College to pursue her major in biology. While attending, she met her late husband, Joseph Mullis, who also attended Belmont Abbey College, and she worked in the admissions office from 1989 to 1992 as a recruiter.

“I think there is a secret charm that the school has because it is like an extended family,” she said. “Those that are lucky enough to find that warmth want to stay and work on campus.

When I was recruiting, I would tell students about the advantages of a liberal arts education and that I had been a student myself.”

Belmont Abbey and Belmont Abbey College were established in 1876

by Benedictine monks after the Rev. Dr. Jeremiah O’Connell gave them the land.

The monks came from St. Vincent’s Abbey in Latrobe, Pa., to staff the college, and arrived in North Carolina to an area of farmland spotted with a few buildings.

The school began with a fall enrollment of four students.

Today, nearly 1,000 students at-

tend what they call “the Abbey,” which now has over 20 buildings, including Belmont Abbey Basilica and the monastery, and continues the traditions set into place by the Benedictines, who are involved in the day-to-day activities of the college.

“All of the monks have some sort of relationship with the college, whether through teaching, praying for the students, individual counseling or other roles,” said Benedictine Father Paschal Baumstein, archivist and historian emeritus of Belmont Abbey.

The close relationships she had with the monks is what Julie Pack, a 1989 psychology graduate, said touched her the most.

“I was looking for a small college so that I could get that personal attention from professors,” she said. “The presence of the monks was what made me feel welcome, and I felt they cared about me.” She said she was closest to Abbot Placid Solari, OSB, and the late Abbot Emeritus Walter Coggin, OSB, who she both described as “loving, caring and understanding.”

Dr. Robert Preston, president of the college for the last five years, is also a product of the school; he graduated in 1953 with a philosophy and Latin degree. This semester, he is teaching an upper-level metaphysics class of 11 students.

“Every professor has the experience of teaching a group that isn’t too large; it is small enough so that everyone become well-acquainted with

everyone else,” said Dr. Preston.

When Dr. Preston returned to the college as president almost 50 years later, some of the same monks and other faculty members were still there, he remembered.

“I think the Benedictine connection fosters both an atmosphere of community and hospitality,” he continued.

Larry Simcox, who graduated in 1992 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, said the “size of the school, availability of the teachers and the closeness of friends” are reasons why he decided to attend the college.

The college is a liberal arts institution requiring 60 hours of a common core curriculum with philosophy, theology, and other areas of study, along with the 60-plus hours needed for graduation.

At the only Catholic college in the Atlanta Province, the focus for the future is growth, both in population and academia. Dr. Preston would like to see the enrollment increase to about 1,200 students. The college also is moving into era of technology with the establishment of distance learning via a new computer classroom and a new computer services director and staff.

Dr. Preston said, “What the liberal arts education does is it teaches students how to learn; it is important to learn the content, but learning the process is important.”

“What amazes me is the tight-knit sense of community that students and

Photo by Joann S. Keane

“I think there is a secret charm that the school has because it is like an extended family,” said Addy Jean Mullis, shown here with Abbot Placid Solari, OSB. alumni have; the alumni are extremely loyal,” said Abbot Placid, abbot of Belmont Abbey and chancellor of Belmont Abbey College. “There is something about the experience here that is beneficial to the students.” t

Contact Staff Writer Alesha M. Price by calling (704) 370-3354 or e-mail amprice@charlottediocese.org.

2 4 The Catholic News & Herald

Living the

January 21, 2000

Hundreds attend right to life rally and march in

By MATT DOYLE NC Catholic RALEIGH — Several hundred people gathered at the Children’s Garden in downtown Raleigh Jan. 15 for the Rally and March for Life 2000.

North Carolina Right to Life, Inc sponsored the event.

The rally, one week before the national march in Washington, D. C., was held in the shadow of the Legislative Office Building, a fact that was not lost on one Raleigh man. Jim McElwee of Our Lady of Lourdes said he was at the rally to offer “encouragement to our legislators to change the law (allowing abortion).”

It is no longer possible, according to Carol Long Tobias, National Right to Life PAC Director, for a woman to have an abortion without knowing that “that someone thinks it is wrong.” Long said it is now more acceptable to be prolife publicly than ever before.

Long said people are more open about being pro-life at work, in school, and in the home. She said that is having an impact on the number of abortions in the United States, a figure she said stood at about 3,500 per day.

Long warned, however, that “we do not condemn women who have had an abortion.” Rather, she said, it is important to work with women who are living with the aftermath of the procedure.

Among those standing in the cold wind that swept among the government

buildings were people who had traveled from Shalotte and Charlotte. St. Brendan the Navigator in Brunswick County sent a delegation to the capital city.

Jack and Shirley Pierce, Pat and Ed Taylor, Jackie Henry and Audrey Weager traveled from the coast to Raleigh.

Ed Taylor said public demonstration was an effective way of letting politicians know where the Catholic community stands.

Irene Manning, chair of Charlotte Area Right to Life and a member of St. Thomas Aquinas Church, called abortion “the greatest injustice we have in the country.” Manning said right to life activities are attended by people with nothing to gain and no self-interest; “we are already born.”

Manning said the demonstrators were committed to their cause. She said they spend their own money and give their own time to be pro-life.

While offering the opening prayer, the pastor of Saints Cyril and Methodius Byzantine Catholic Church in Cary, Father Richard Rohrer, noted his parish’s long involvement with Project Rachel, a post abortion healing ministry.

He said the greatest victims of abortion are the mothers.

For the children, said Father Rohrer, the ordeal is over. However, he said the mothers must continue to live “the hell” of having “the most intimate of relationships in their lives destroyed.”

Tom and Rosanne Pagles of St.

Photo by Matt Doyle, NC Catholic

The Knights of Columbus led the March for Life in Raleigh on Jan. 15.

Vincent de Paul Church in Charlotte felt their presence at the rally and march was particularly important this year. They are about to become grandparents for the first time and said it was important for them to support life.

Knights of Columbus from around the state took part in the rally and led the subsequent march around the government district in Raleigh. Banners waved in the breeze bearing council names from Winston-Salem, Garner, Belmont and Raleigh, among others.

When the rally ended and the marchers fell into line, the Knights

took up the lead. As most of the people at the rally fell in behind the Knights, the two “right to life” horses brought up the rear.

Bill Hampton and his daughter Emily brought they large creatures into place behind the marchers. “Star of Gettysburgh” and “Moneypenny” done some babysitting during the rally, holding the attention of many children while their parents listened to the speakers. t This story is reprinted with permission from the NC Catholic.