Jan. 28 2000

The Catholic News & Herald 1

January 28, 2000

January 28, 2000 Volume 9 t Number 21

Inside Pro-lifers urged to look to fall elections ...Page 3

Triad high school plans forge forward

...Page 4

Teacher honored for years of Catholic teaching

...Page 5

From the Cover

Program an “ace” in deck of education opportunities

...Page 7

Every Week Entertainment ...Pages 10-11

Editorials & Columns ...Pages 12-13

Jan. 30-Feb. 5 Catholic Schools Week

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

Dedication of center officially marks establishment of new diocesan office

By Alesha M. Price Staff Writer MURPHY — Amid the picture book mountains in the westernmost part of the state, dilapidated trailers and shacks dot the landscape. Substandard housing and poor living conditions are a way of life for many residents in the Smoky Mountain Vicariate of the Diocese of Charlotte, which includes Clay, Cherokee, Graham and Swain counties.

One of the main problems is that many do not have the resources to bring themselves out of the cycle of low-paying jobs or unemployment due to a lack of child care, transportation or skills, which might mean better-paying jobs and a chance for a better lifestyle.

In keeping with the Nov. 1997 pastoral letter to North Carolina Catholics entitled “Of One Heart and One Mind,” in which Bishop William G. Curlin of Charlotte and Bishop F. Joseph Gossman of Raleigh wrote, “We must continue to address the effects of poverty by serving the poor in homeless shelters, in food pantries ... but we must also include action aimed at resolving the root causes of poverty ... ,” more than 100 people were present for the open house and dedication ceremony of the Bishop Begley Center for Economic Development on Jan. 19.

The dedication served as a celebration of months of planning and development to establish the Office of Economic Opportunity, which operates out of the center. The office, was

Photo by Alesha M. Price

John Scell, from St. William Church, accepts a plaque from Bishop William G. Curlin at the dedication of the new Bishop Begley Center in Murphy, NC. opened in Oct. 1999 to focus on the cause and effect of poverty on people, particularly in those four counties.

The idea is to research and implement viable solutions for the serious problems of poverty affecting many people in the diocese.

The office is under the umbrella of the Office of Justice and Peace of Catholic Social Services.

Elizabeth Thurbee, director of Catholic Social Services (CSS), said, “This is very important step for CSS to be taking in this part of the state. This is part of what CSS stands for, reaching out to the community and putting social justice teachings into action.”

The event featured Father Mauri-

See BEGLEY CENTER, page 8

Diocesan schools foster same vision through varied structures The third model is that of Bishop McGuinness High School in WinstonSalem. This is a “regionalized” school, said Skube, and like Asheville Catholic is supported by area parishes. The school is led by the principal, with the diocese being involved in overall planning and budgeting.

The fourth model is that of the Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools, which is called “regionalization” according to Skube. This is a group of schools within a defined area that form a region. The schools have individual principals, but the diocese oversees the administration. Pastors are involved in the overview and work toward the spiritual development of students.

Advantages of the regionalized school system, said Skube, involve shared ownership of improving curriculum, planning and coordination, as well as unified tuition and salaries, comprehen-

By Dianne Riggs Correspondent “One size does not fit all” might be an apt slogan of the Diocese of Charlotte Catholic Schools Office.

Perhaps unknown to some Catholics in the region, elementary and secondary Catholic schools in the diocese function under four different structural models, according to diocesan school superintendent Dr. Michael Skube.

These models were created for effectiveness and efficiency, he said.

The first model, which is the most prevalent, is the parish school. This is an elementary school which is directly connected with a parish. The school is led by the principal in partnership with the pastor, and the school has the advantage of being integrated with the life of the parish, added Skube. He added that the parish school is generally a

smaller school.

St. Michael School in Gastonia, St. Pius X and Our Lady of Grace schools in Greensboro, Our Lady of Mercy and St. Leo schools in Winston-Salem, Immaculata School in Hendersonville, Sacred Heart School in Salisbury, and Immaculate Heart of Mary School in High Point are parish schools in the diocese.

Asheville Catholic School, by virtue of its history, is a regional school, sponsored by several parishes. The parishes jointly decide upon a school administrator who is a pastor, and the pastor and principal work in a partnership. Day-to-day affairs are the domain of the principal, while overall directions such as budget involve the school administrator as well.

See SCHOOL VISION, page 9

2 The Catholic News & Herald Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez visited a Catholic reconstruction project, praising the effort as a model for Venezuelans struggling to recover from devastating floods and mudslides in December. “Count on us, Father,” Chavez said as he embraced Jesuit Father Jose Virtuoso, who runs Faith & Joy, a neighborhood organization in Catuche, a hillside slum in Caracas.

“We’re going to work with you on this project, with the help of God and this united people,” he said. Hundreds of neighborhood residents cheered as the pair embraced.

Pope urges proclaiming message in secular, religious media VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The church must search for ways to proclaim its message in secular as well as religious media, Pope John Paul II said.

While the church needs to develop its own means of communication, it “must also use the opportunities that are to be found in the secular media,” the pope said in his annual message for World Communications Day. The theme for this year’s celebrations, to be marked June 4, is “Proclaiming Christ in the Media at the Dawn of the New Millennium.”

Court leaves law intact closing public schools on Good Friday WASHINGTON (CNS) — The U.S. Supreme Court declined to review an appeal of Maryland’s law requiring schools to close on Good Friday. Without comment Jan. 18, the court rejected an appeal by a retired Maryland teacher who argued that the law violates the separation of church and state. Maryland, Illinois and North Dakota are the only states that require all public schools to close on Good Friday, although the Illinois law was struck down by the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. A handful of other states designate Good Friday as a legal holiday but do not require schools to close.

Britain announces changes to Northern Ireland police force LONDON (CNS) — The British government announced wide-ranging changes to the police force in Northern Ireland in a bid to attract more Catholic recruits. The proposed changes in-

CNS photo by Martin Lueders

Child soldiers “T.S.” 12, became a child soldier in Sierra Leone after rebels killed his parents and abducted him. He attempted to leave twice before succeeding and going to a program for ex-soldier children run by Catholic priests.

Two hundred former child soldiers being turned over to the care of Father Teophilous Momoh, manager of Children Associated with War, were kidnapped en route to Freetown Jan. 21.

Religious say church needs them, but in different ways VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Reflecting on their diminishing numbers at the dawn of a new Christian millennium, religious men and women are confident they will continue to be needed by the church, but in ways adapted to global social changes. “Before anything else, the emphasis will be on quality rather than quantity,” said Discalced Carmelite Father Camilo Maccise, president of the Union of Superiors General, representing more than 250 men’s orders. Though conserving their trademark — radical living of the Gospel — religious must turn their energies to the challenges posed by today’s often secularized, globalized society, he said Jan. 21 as religious communities prepared for their special jubilee day in Rome Feb. 2.

Venezuelan president praises Catholic reconstruction project CARACAS, Venezuela (CNS) —

Episcopal January 28, 2000 Volume 9 • Number 21

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 28, 2000

The World in

c a l e n-

Bishop Curlin will take part in the following Catholic Schools Week events: January 31 — 9:00 a.m.

Mass at St. Patrick Cathedral Charlotte, NC February 1 — 10:00 a.m.

Mass at Holy Trinity Middle School Charlotte, NC February 2 — 9:30 a.m.

Mass at CCHS Charlotte, NC February 3 — 10:00 a.m.

Mass at Our Lady of Grace Greensboro, NC February 4 — 10:30 a.m.

Mass at St. Eugene’s for ACS Asheville, NC

clude a new name for the Royal Ulster Constabulary, which has a reputation among many members of Northern Ireland’s Catholic community as being dominated by Protestant members. In fall 2001, the name of the Royal Ulster Constabulary will be changed to Police Service of Northern Ireland. Only 8 percent of the current police force is Catholic — compared to more than 40 percent of the population at large.

The government’s decisions were announced in London’s House of Commons Jan. 19 by Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Peter Mandelson.

Notre Dame anti-sweatshop task force issues recommendations NOTRE DAME, Ind. (CNS) — A special anti-sweatshop task force at the University of Notre Dame has called for the school to prohibit the manufacture of its licensed products in countries that do not recognize workers’ legal right to organize. The task force also urged the university to create a

Diocesan

plan -

665-8108.

13 CHARLOTTE — There is a charismatic Mass being held at St. Patrick Cathedral, 1621 Dilworth Ave. East, today at 4 p.m. with prayer teams at 3 p.m. and a potluck to follow the Mass.

Call Josie at (704) 527-4676 with any questions.

17 HIGH POINT — A charismatic Mass is being celebrated in the chapel of Maryfield Nursing Home, 1315 Greensboro Rd., tonight at 7:30 p.m.

For details, call the Rev. Mr. Ron or Bette Steinkamp at (336) 427-9717 or (336) 882-9717.

19 CHARLOTTE — Kathy and David and their Christian contemporary backup band “Redeemed” are performing tonight for the “Rock-N-Java” concert series at Forest Hills Presbyterian Church, located on Park Rd. “Rock-N-Java” is a Christian contemporary coffeehouse concert series that rotates to various area

model factory monitoring program to be overseen by professional auditors, church members and labor and human rights organizations. A third recommendation, that the school request full public disclosure of manufacturing sites by all its licensees, has been in effect since last November. Holy Cross Father Edward A. Malloy, president of Notre Dame, has accepted the recommendations.

Pope moved to tears while watching film by Polish director VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope John Paul II reportedly wept as he watched the latest film by one of Poland’s most successful directors. In a private screening at the Vatican Jan. 23, the Polish pontiff saw Andrzej Wajda’s “Pan Tadeusz,” Vatican Radio said. Wajda and members of the movie’s cast were also at the screening. Vatican sources said the pope was moved to tears during the film, a historical saga set during the Napoleonic era, when Poland was divided between Germany, Russia and the Austro-Hungarian Empire. “Tears were running down (the pope’s) face during the final scene of reconciliation” between two of the main characters, Wajda said after the screening.

CHA welcomes Clinton proposal to expand health care coverage WASHINGTON (CNS) — The Catholic Health Association Jan. 20 praised President Clinton’s proposal to expand health care coverage for millions of low-income Americans.

Father Michael D. Place, CHA president and chief executive officer, urged Congress “to act this year on the president’s proposal and other efforts to expand health coverage.” Noting that the nation is in a period of low unemployment, a strong economy and federal budget surpluses, he asked, “If not now, when?” The new Clinton plan would commit $110 billion over the next 10 years to expand the Children’s Health Insurance Program, provide tax credits for small businesses to buy health insurance, expand access to Medicare and give tax credits for longterm care. churches. Kathy Piontek, music director at St. Matthew Church, and David Shoff, music director at St. Thomas Aquinas Church, have released “The Journey,” a CD of praise songs. For additional information about booking availability, the concert series or CD purchases, call Terry at (704) 321-5744 or Kathy at (704) 614-9100.

BLACK MOUNTAIN — Catholic Engaged Encounter is a weekend retreat allowing couples preparing for marriage to concentrate exclusively on each other free of tensions and pressures. This weekend’s retreat is being held at the Blue Ridge Assembly, 20 minutes east of Asheville, today and tomorrow. For registration, directions and other information, call Dorothy Menze at (888) 310-8040 or (704) 3646726.

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

January 28, 2000

The Catholic News & Herald 3

In the

Pro-lifers urged to look to fall elections for change on abortion

By Carol Zimmermann Catholic News Service WASHINGTON (CNS) — The upcoming elections show promise for the pro-life movement, said several speakers at the kick-off rally for the annual March for Life Jan. 24 on the Ellipse in Washington.

“This year’s presidential and congressional elections must be the turning point,” Rep. Chris Smith, RN.J., told tens of thousands of pro-life activists preparing for the 27th annual march to the U.S. Supreme Court to protest the court’s 1973 Roe vs. Wade decision that legalized abortion.

Smith, one of about a dozen politicians and religious leaders who addressed the crowd under gray skies and in a cold wind, said there was “a tremendous urgency to return a prolife president to the White House.”

And pointing to the White House in the distance behind the podium, Rep. Steve Chabot, R-Ohio, said that he hoped next year a different family “in this house” will support pro-life legislation.

Referring to the partial-birth abortion ban that was passed twice by Congress and vetoed twice by President Clinton, Chabot, a Catholic, said: “We’ll pass it again.”

But he also emphasized it was just as critical to stop all other types of abortion.

House Majority Leader Dick Armey, R-Texas, likewise said the partial-birth abortion ban will once again be passed by Congress and President Clinton will be urged to sign it into law. He said Congress this year will also pass the Unborn Victims of Violence Act and the Child Custody Protection Act “out of our love for the innocent unborn.”

Looking to this year’s elections, Rabbi Yehuda Levin of the Union of Orthodox Rabbis of the United States and Canada said “presidential wannabes have to stop beating around the bush.”

“You’ve got to stop abortion, we

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.

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

“Any disunity or apathy going into the fall elections will be self-defeating luxuries that will only perpetuate the horrific slaughter of 4,000 babies each day.”

— Rep. Chris Smith, R-NJ, chair of the Pro-Life Caucus

CNS photo by Martin Lueders

Enthusiastic young people carrying a March for Life banner lead a crowd of thousands down Washington’s Constitution Avenue to the Supreme Court building Jan. 24 during the annual march commemorating the anniversary of the Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion. demand it,” he added.

Smith, a Catholic who chairs the Congressional Pro-Life Caucus, said he wholeheartedly supports Texas Gov. George W. Bush for president “because he will do all that is possible to end the violence of abortion.”

But he added that no matter who pro-life activists support, they should commit to “rallying around whoever the pro-life nominee turns out to be.”

“Any disunity or apathy going into the fall elections will be self-defeating luxuries that will only perpetuate the horrific slaughter of 4,000 babies each day,” he said.

Over the course of the 60-minute rally, representatives were introduced from a cross section of pro-life activist groups including Doctors for Life,

Dentists for Life, National Council of Catholic Women, and Operation Rescue. This year’s rally was two days after the Jan. 22 U.S. Supreme Court decision in order to take place on a weekday.

Cardinal William H. Keeler of Baltimore introduced Cardinals Francis E. George of Chicago, James A. Hickey of Washington and Anthony J. Bevilacqua of Philadelphia and 26 bishops, pointing out that Cardinal John J. O’Connor of New York was unable to attend because of his health.

“I send special greetings to you from Cardinal O’Connor, who is with you in spirit and prayer. He says, and I echo, ‘Don’t give up.”’

Cardinal Keeler told the crowd

February 1 ASHEVILLE — Asheville Catholic School is celebrating Catholic Schools Week with an open house this morning from 9-11 a.m. at 12 Culvern St. The public and parents of prospective students for the 2000-2001 school year are invited. Tours of the school and registration for pre-kindergarten through eighth grade are available for interested participants. For more information, contact Dr. Veronica Berreen at (828) 252-7896.

2 CHARLOTTE — St. Gabriel Church’s support group for those living with cancer and their family members takes place tonight at 7 p.m. in the church’s ministry center at 3016 Providence Rd. For further information, call Bob Poffenberger at (704) 553-7000 or Eileen Correll at (704) 362-5047, Ext. 217.

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.

11

CHARLOTTE — The diocesan Catholic Schools Office presents a religion in-service day for teachers across the diocese today from 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. at St. Gabriel School. Featured speakers are Father Richard Fragomeni, an author and lecturer from Chicago, and Dr. Elinor Ford, a speaker and expert on a variety of educational topics.

Mass will be celebrated, with special guest David Anderson directing the music. Music from the Holy Trinity Middle School band, directed by Alan Kaufman, will begin the day. All those involved in educational and catechetical ministry are also invited. Advanced registration is required by calling Mercy Sister Maureen Meehan, director of religious formation, at (704) 370-3268.

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)

that the nation’s bishops “stand with you to pray, march and lift our voices” until the day when “life is protected at every stage.”

Nellie Gray, the organizer of the event, told participants, many of whom were standing on melting snow, that pro-life activists will continue to gather each year in Washington “until Roe vs. Wade is overturned.”

Referring to the theme of the day’s gathering, “My Neighbor is Each Human Being in Existence at Fertilization,” she said: “Each unborn child is our neighbor too. We must constantly talk about life beginning at fertilization.”

Norma McCorvey, the “Jane Roe” from the Roe vs. Wade decision who became a Catholic two years ago, asked the crowd how many of them want to see the Supreme Court decision overturned.

The crowd, wearing parkas and holding up placards with pro-life slogans, responded with cheers. She told them there were hundreds of ways to work at overturning the decision, including getting involved in sidewalk counseling.

But many in the crowd have long been involved in pro-life activism on a daily basis, which explained their presence on the Ellipse in the first place.

Jason Negri, director of alumni relations at Franciscan University of Steubenville in Ohio, told Catholic News Service that participating in the march “definitely gives a shot in the arm to people who work in the day-today aspect of the pro-life movement.”

If nothing else, being in Washington with thousands of others committed to the pro-life cause shows him that it’s “more than just a handful of people” who are pro-life. t

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) 582-0207 for further information.

HICKORY — Marriage Encounter is an enrichment program for married couples 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) 4832329.

5 BELMONT — This month’s first Saturday devotion at Belmont Abbey Monastery is taking place this morning with Mass at 9:30 a.m. and the rosary and confessions at 10:15 a.m.

Call Terri and Phil DeLuca at (704) 888-6050 for more information.

CHARLOTTE — The Charlotte Catholic High School Placement Test is administered each year to all

4 The Catholic News & Herald

Catholic

Building a foundation of

Triad high school plans forge

By Joann S. Keane Editor WINSTON-SALEM — One of the sure signs of the growth of Catholicism in the Diocese of Charlotte is witnessed by the remarkable increase in the Catholic population of the Triad area, says Bishop William G. Curlin. “Growth,” he says, “is a key reason we look forward to the building of a new Bishop McGuinness High School, to adequately meet an ever-expanding growth among our Catholic youth.”

“The education of youth has an important place in the mosaic of the Catholic Church in Western North Carolina,” says Bishop Curlin.

Plans for a relocated Bishop McGuinness High School have been rolling forward since the 1999 announcement

by Bishop Curlin. A couple of intensive years of surveys, consultation and preliminary groundwork preceded the bishop’s decision for the diocese to build a centrally located high school to serve the secondary educational needs of the Triad region.

With the new century came an outlined ‘foundation for faith.’ Initial drawings and facility plans for an 800-student facility have been reviewed and revised. Last week, Vicar General and Chancellor Father Mauricio West along with the school building committee met to review cost estimates and design development drawings. The building committee includes Bishop McGuinness High School Principal George Repass and members of the Triad community.

“The architect, proposed contractor and the diocese are working in concert to insure the success of this project,” says Father West.

On the table are plans for a twostory 118,000 square-foot school building. Integral elements include a 225-seat chapel, 4,400 square-foot media center, and central courtyard.

State-of-the-art is the oft-quoted description of the planned high school.

Computer labs along with computer learning supports in all teaching areas are nothing less than basic necessities.

High tech is needed to meet the rapidly advancing needs of a computer-

literate generation.

To help offset overall building costs, a campaign for Bishop McGuinness High School expects to raise several million dollars. “Is there any more important an undertaking than addressing the need to accommodate our children, grandchildren and others with the opportunity to receive their education at a new and even better facility?” ask members of the campaign committee. It is from that philosophy that Laying New Foundations for Faith and Learning evolved as the catchphrase for the fund-raising campaign, punctuated by acknowledging the need to “Help students develop strong moral values and a deep commitment to God and Church.”

“Every Catholic household will be given the opportunity to make commitment to the future of Catholic education in the Triad,” adds Jim Kelley, diocesan director of development.

“We hope that when contacted, they respond generously.”

Aside from the brick and mortar costs, Father West is very focused on the affordability of a Catholic high school education in the Triad. “This is a priority,” he says. This spring, the diocese will begin a series of meetings to bring family costs to the forefront.

“Pastor input and parish support are essential,” says Father West.

As the Triad expands, so does the diocesan commitment to meet this growth head on. “People recognize the churches’ obligation to meet needs,” says Bishop Curlin. “Just as we work for the aged, the sick, the migrants, we work for the children.”

“I thank God for the parents and for the people who generously acknowledge this need and generously respond to make this a reality.”

A groundbreaking ceremony for the new high school is scheduled Feb. 6 at the site of the future school. For directions and more information, contact Bishop McGuinness High School 336-725-4247. t Contact Editor Joann Keane by calling (704) 370-3336 or e-mail jskeane@ charlottediocese.org

January 28, 2000

January 28, 2000

Catholic

The Catholic News & Herald 5

Teacher honored for years of Catholic

the time.

By Alesha M. Price Dr. Michael Skube, superintendent Staff Writer of schools for the Diocese of CharGREENSBORO — By sheer colotte said, “Lorraine is an excellent incidence, Lorraine Malthurs ended representative of all of our teachers up teaching at a school with the same because she expects the children in her name as the one she attended as a care to do well, assists them in many young girl. ways to do so, and has a central focus Malthurs has held a myriad of of providing an environment of Cathteaching positions at St. Pius X in olic values and traditions for them.”

Greensboro: from first through fifth Principal Celeste Usischon said she grade reading and math classes to innominated Malthurs because “her talents structing students on the sacraments are limitless, and she of reconciliation and the Euchahas used them with trerist, the second grade home room mendous dedication.” educator who attended St. Piux X Malthurs has in Plainview, N.Y., has dedicated worked with Usischon 27 years to education in the Triad. as the assistant to the Years later, her teaching skills principal and as advisor have earned her the 1999-2000 and facilitator for those National Catholic Educators’ Asteachers pursuing their sociation (NCEA) Distinguished licenses.

Teacher Award, in honor of Sister Usischon cited Miriam Joseph Farrell. She is one Malthurs’ qualities of 11 teachers from the South as a teacher as reaMalthurs Atlantic States region to be honored with this award.

One of the first steps “Teaching in Catholic school makes me live my was to fit the award faith daily and weekly. Your heart gets touched criteria, which inwhen their hearts get touched.” cluded teaching in a Catholic school for at least 10 years and having a philosophy sons why she was chosen for the award: of Catholic education. She then had to “She demands the best of her students answer 11 questions about her life and and from their parents, and her intercareer. action with the school community is “This is a great honor and is one edifying and professional. She nourof the biggest things that has hapishes the potential in each child in her pened in my life,” said Malthurs. care and is a person who is centered in Her life as a teacher got an early Christ and concerned about the moral start when she tutored neighborhood training of her students.” first graders for 10 cents an hour as a As part of the application, a ten-year-old. Her inspiration stemmed teacher and a parent wrote recomfrom one of her own teachers. mendation letters on Malthurs’ behalf.

“My eighth grade teacher, Sister Patty Delaney, a third grade assistant Mary Uriel, always said ‘better late and president of the Home School Asthan never,’ when it came to accepting sociation (HSA) for St. Pius X School, late assignments. She understood how said, “I thought she would be a great different people came from different candidate because of her great knowlplaces, and I try to do the same with edge in religion and teaching, which my students,” said Malthurs. comes through in what she does. She After earning her education deis very energetic with the children and gree with a math concentration from very religious, which gets them ready Oneonta State College in N.Y., she and for their sacraments.” her husband Bryon moved to GreensDelaney has worked with Malthurs, boro to join a sister who lived there who is on the executive board of HSA, at the time. Malthurs had heard from her sister that St. Pius X School was interviewing for teaching positions at See MALTHURS, page 8

6 The Catholic News & Herald

People in the

January 28, 2000

Manhattan attorney named president of U.S. Knights of Malta

CNS photo from Reuters

The grandmother’s of Elian Mariela Quintana Gonzalez and Raquel Rodriguez, the grandmothers of Elian Gonzalez, listen to reporters at a press conference at Kennedy Airport in New York Jan. 21. The women also met with Attorney General Janet Reno during a visit to try to have their 6-year-old grandson returned to his father in Cuba.

By Tracy Early Catholic News Service NEW YORK (CNS) — John Paul Reiner, an attorney in a Manhattan law firm, White & Case, has become the new president of the American Association of the Knights of Malta.

He was elected by the organization’s board of councilors Dec. 6, and took office Jan. 1 for a three-year term.

A graduate of Fordham University and the Columbia University Law School, he has been a Knight since 1978 and a member of the order’s board of councilors since 1994.

His wife, Mary Elisabeth Wells Reiner is a Dame of Malta. And at a Mass of Investiture Jan. 14 at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York, his daughter, Mary E. Reiner Barnes, was inducted into the order.

The 41 men and 19 women inducted included Bishop James T. McHugh of Rockville Centre, Bishop George J. Lucas of Springfield, Ill., and Auxiliary Bishop Patrick J. Sheridan, vicar general of the Archdiocese of New York.

Cardinal John J. O’Connor of New York, chaplain of the association, presided at the Mass, and Archbishop Renato R. Martino, Vatican nuncio to the United Nations, celebrated the Eucharist.

It was the 80th annual Mass of Investiture, and was dedicated to Car-

dinal O’Connor, who turned 80 the following day.

Reiner is also a Knight Commander of the Order of St. Sylvester the Pope and a Knight of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, and secretary of the Path to Peace Foundation, an agency established by Archbishop Martino to support projects related to the work of the Vatican’s U.N. mission.

As president of the Knights of Malta, Reiner succeeded William J. Flynn, who had become president in 1996 following the death of his predecessor, J. Peter Grace, the previous year.

Flynn, who was chairman of Mutual of America Life Insurance Company, led in a reorganization of the American Association of Knights that put two-term limits on the service of presidents and councilors. Implementation of the changes brought a period of controversy, but Reiner said he hoped that now was over.

In another change this year, Jack Shine, a former public school administrator in Connecticut, has become director of administration at the order’s offices. He replaced Henry J. Humphreys, who had the title of executive director.

January 28, 2000

The Catholic News & Herald 7

From the

Program an “ace” in deck of educational

By JIMMY ROSTAR Associate Editor CHARLOTTE — From high school, Matthew Johnson knew he wanted to be a teacher. In pursuit of that dream, he drew an ace from a deck of opportunities: entry into a master’s level educational program that promotes Catholic identity, service and commitment.

Today, Johnson is one of seven student teachers in Charlotte this school year as part of the Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE), an intensive two-year service commitment that yields a master’s degree in education from the University of Notre Dame.

Johnson is in his second year of the program, teaching fifth-graders at Our Lady of the Assumption School.

He says the program has taught him much about building educational experience around the example of the ultimate teacher, Jesus.

“When I think of Christ the teacher, I think of a lot of compassion,” says Johnson, a Notre Dame graduate. “I truly believe that Christ has so much compassion for all those he has taught, and I really try to take that into the classroom — a lot of compassion and patience.”

That sense of identity with Christ as teacher is a primary goal of the ACE program, organizers say. The program recruits, places and supports student teachers, about two-thirds of whom stay in Catholic education as

Courtesy photo

This group of teachers in the Alliance for Catholic Education program currently teach in Catholic schools in Charlotte. ACE is a master’s level program grounded in Catholic identity, service, and commitment. and Scott Reis, who teach at Charlotte Catholic High School.

The University of Notre Dame developed the master’s in education program in 1997, and launched the enhanced ACE program the next year.

In all they learn and teach, participants are invited to deepen their faith while serving as Christian leaders — in the classroom and beyond.

“This program reminds me that

— whether I’m actually in the classroom, attending a school function or in church — I am constantly a teacher by my display of actions and what I have to say,” says Sarah Van Ermen, a second-year participant who teaches religion and social studies at Holy Trinity Catholic Middle School.

Van Ermen, a Notre Dame graduate, says her classroom experience through the ACE program has been a valuable lesson on the influence that a teacher can have with students. Just as Jesus promoted his message through daily actions and words, she says, a

a profession. In a Christian sense of service, participants spend a total of 16 weeks over two summers in intensive training at Notre Dame and in local schools. They teach for two full school years in Catholic schools across the southern and southeastern United States, where numbers of teachers in Catholic schools had been declining in recent years. Participants are paired with mentors in the schools, and stay in touch with ACE officials through e-mail, classroom observations and other visits.

What began in 1994 with a group of 40 teachers in nine communities is now an educational program with 138 teachers serving 22 dioceses in 11 states. Founded at the University of Portland, the program has since been enhanced by its affiliations with Notre Dame, as well as its involvement with the U.S. Catholic Conference’s National Catholic Education Association and a growing number of diocesan school systems.

“It’s an incredible program that has brought seven of its participants to the Diocese of Charlotte to work in several of our Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools,” says Dr. Michael Skube, diocesan superintendent of schools. “These people have remarkable backgrounds and bring a true sense of enthusiasm to the classroom.”

Joining Johnson in Charlotte are Brendan Sullivan, Sarah Van Ermen, Marcia Devlin, and Joseph Pietrangelo, who teach at Holy Trinity Catholic Middle School; and Katherine Pytlak

See ACE PROGRAM, page 9

8 The Catholic News & Herald

In the

Begley Center dedication, from page 1 rich and resourceful community.”

During the ceremony, Bishop Curlin thanked those involved for their help with bringing the goals of the office to fruition. He stated, “There has been an outreach of charity and love in this area. This ministry represents a Christ-like action because we have come together to enact positive change and offer support to those in need.”

The bishop presented a plaque to the parishioners of St. William Church, which was accepted by John Scell, whom the parishioners affectionately call “the Czar,” because of his tireless efforts with leading “It is an exciting opportunity to develop a new the refurbishing of approach to economic development, guided the center. by the noble assertions of Catholic economic The attendants then huddled around justice teachings and guided by the needs and the center for a ribaspirations of a rich and resourceful community.” bon-cutting ceremo— Melissa Block, director of the Office of Economic Opportunity ny and a blessing by the bishop. They were then treated to a tour of the faso many.” cilities.

Melissa Block, director of the Included in the center are the MounOffice of Economic Opportunity tain MicroEnterprise Fund (MMF) and since the Oct. 1999 opening, has been the Self-Help Credit Union, both satelactively working with other organizalite offices out of Asheville. tions and individuals to put workable The MMF helps people start plans into place. or expand small businesses through “I feel fortunate to have been choloans, training and technical assissen for this office to work within the tance and peer support in 11 counties, communities of Swain, Clay, Cherokee according to Greg Walker-Wilson, and Graham counties to address the MMF director. root causes of economic injustice. It “We support what the diocese is is an exciting opportunity to develop doing, and we work together as parta new approach to economic developners with slightly different, but imporment, guided by the noble assertions of tant roles,” said Walker-Wilson.

Catholic economic justice teachings and The Self-Help Credit Union is an guided by the needs and aspirations of a cio W. West, vicar general and chancellor, who read a passage from the bishops’ letter and said, “The Diocese of Charlotte takes this opportunity to reconnect itself to partnering with this community and addressing the effects of poverty .... It is out of this vision, based on sacred Scripture and Catholic social teaching, that the Bishop Begley Center for Economic Development was created. Our efforts in the areas of childcare, affordable housing, job mentoring and business development have been very strongly supported by

economic development bank, which serves low-end, low-income, minority and rural families and individuals to acquire access to capital, which most banks do not allow in most “high-risk” cases, said Joyce Harrison, Western N.C. regional director.

Harrison said, “We complement each other in what we do; we share resources to make more of an ecomonic impact.”

“We are looking forward to the partnership we have developed with MMF and Self-Help,” said Joanne Frazer, director of the Office of Justice and Peace.

The Office of Economic Opportunity has been busy at work with several projects. The Economic Development Fund, supported by the sale of a business once owned by the diocese, will be used for small business loans and individual development accounts (IDAs) for people to save money to buy a home or start a business, said Father George Kloster, pastor of St. William Church and the acting chair of the office advisory board.

A market study being done by the Mountain Resource Center, located on the campus of Western Carolina University, was commissioned by the office to research and compile reasons for a lack of adequate housing and the steps needed for purchasing. t Contact Staff Writer Alesha M. Price by calling (704) 370-3354 or e-mail amprice@charlottediocese.org.

January 28, 2000

Malthurs, from page 5

and Delaney’s son Ryan, a fourth grader who had Malthurs as his teacher in second grade said, “she is one of the best teachers he has ever had and learned so much from her.”

Pat Abondolo, who has been a technical specialist for 15 years at the school, said, “she is a wonderful teacher who has dedicated her life to Catholic education and lives her faith.”

Malthurs’ philosophy is simple: “I took a little child’s hand in mine, and we were to walk together to the Father.” “I am taking them on a journey [with sacramental preparation], and this is their first big encounter with the Lord,” she explained.

“Teaching in Catholic school makes me live my faith daily and weekly. Your heart gets touched when their hearts get touched,” said Malthurs.

She cites the Daughters of Charity, who used to staff St. Pius X School, as an inspiration. She said “her attitude about teaching is different because she worked with them; they were women who strived at everything they did.”

Malthurs will receive her award, along with the other regional teachers, during a ceremony at the NCEA Convention in Baltimore in April. t Contact Staff Writer Alesha M. Price by calling (704) 370-3354 or e-mail amprice@charlottediocese.org.

January 28, 2000

The Catholic News & Herald 9

Catholic

ACE Teachers, from page 7

teacher can similarly convey ideals of Christian life while serving people hungry for knowledge. Together, she says, both teachers and students can grow in learning and faith.

“They (students) want to know that there is an answer out there, and sometimes that’s a big challenge,” she adds. “The more they question, the more I have to find a concrete answer.”

In addition to sharing a vision of Catholic identity in their classrooms, participants in local communities share in a spirit of mutual support through conversation and group prayer. They discuss their joys and frustrations, their hopes and concerns. Through their shared experience, says one participant, the teachers learn ways to grow in faith as well.

“People approach spirituality in different ways, and it’s good to be exposed to that,” says Scott Reis, who teaches math to freshmen and sophomores at Charlotte Catholic High School. Of the sharing of experience, he also says “it’s great just having that support; other people are going through some of the same things you are.”

Reis, who graduated from the University of Portland, says the program encourages “an outpouring of service to others.”

“I enjoy teaching and I’m going to stick with it,” says Reis, who also serves as a coach on the school’s cross-country running team — an

experience that has given the opportunity to work with students outside the classroom and which further strengthened his resolve to teach.

Faith development is vital to the program — both personal development as well as shared. “I definitely see that my personal faith has grown, especially though the classroom,” says Matthew Johnson.

“The fifth-graders tell you exactly how they feel; there’s a kind of elementary faith they seem to have.

That has definitely helped my own spirituality to grow.”

Experiences like that have convinced Johnson that he will stay in education. “For some reason, I don’t consider teaching a job,” he says. “It’s something that I love to do — to have the opportunity to touch lives and really be a minister of Christ by teaching these children, who will be our future.” t Contact Associate Editor Jimmy Rostar by calling (704) 370-3334, or e-mail jtrostar@charlottediocece.org.

Snap Sources: The National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA), 1999

Catholic Schools vision, from page sive financial planning and fund-raising programs, coordinated programs of before- and after-school care, pre-schools, and summer programs, and efficiency in the use of school facilities within the system. The schools in this system are All Saints, Charlotte Catholic high, Holy Trinity Middle, Our Lady of the Assumption, St. Ann, St. Gabriel, and St. Patrick schools.

What do all these models have in common? “They are all ministry off of the local parish, going in the same direction,” said Skube. That direction is a Catholic identity and a desire to meet whatever needs participating Catholics and other parents see for

their children.

Several years ago, parents, staff and pastors in the diocese were surveyed as to these perceived needs.

In response, the diocesan Catholic Schools Office set up a program of ongoing religious professional inservice training for the staff. Directed by the school office’s director of religious formation for schools, Mercy Sister Maureen Meehan, the in-service training takes place several times each school year.

The diocese is also putting together consistent preparation programs for religion teachers at all levels. t

1 0 The Catholic News & Herald Book Review

Humanity should be “mutually enhancing” presence on Earth, says Reviewed by Anne LeVeque Catholic News Service Passionist Father Thomas Berry is best known as an environmentalist and cultural historian. His 1988 book, “The Dream of the Earth,” was a seminal work providing a philosophical groundwork for environmentalism, not just as an isolated social issue, but as a broad cultural paradigm.

“The Dream of the Earth” set

“The Great Work: Our Way into The Future”

By Father Thomas Berry CP. Bell Tower (New York, 1999) 242 pp., $23.00.

forth the idea that the Earth has, in humanity, evolved a self-reflective consciousness. If we can see ourselves as fully a part of the Earth, we can understand ourselves as the Earth’s consciousness.

Father Berry’s most recent offering, “The Great Work: Our Way Into the Future” continues this theme while exploring ways in which humanity can become what Father Berry calls a “mutually enhancing” presence on Earth.

Father Berry’s view is that we must change our underlying attitudes toward creation. This includes our relationship with our fellow humans as well as our relationship with every part of creation, both living and nonliving. Presently there is an enormous discontinuity between humans and anything not human. Our task, if we are to survive, is not only to bridge that gap but eliminate it completely.

While this may sound radical at first, be assured that Father Berry is no neo-Luddite. He recognizes the value that modern technology has brought to the lives of many. He also points out the great cost of technology: the devastation of the Earth.

January 28, 2000

Read-

Father Berry outlines the great work of previous generations and cultures, then goes on to say that the great work of our time is, “to carry out the transition from a period of human devastation of the Earth to a period when humans would be present to the planet in a mutually beneficial manner.”

What this means and how we are to accomplish this is the subject of this book. Father Berry examines the current condition of the Earth and the historical background of human interaction with the Earth that has brought about the present situation of environmental catastrophe. The current order is based on human perception that creation exists for the use of humanity, in an exploitive relationship.

The future order is one of co-existence and mutuality — an “Ecozoic Era.” Father Berry’s perspective is ultimately a hopeful one. He has great faith in the ability of institutions and people to change in fundamental ways.

Reading “The Great Work” is an exercise in optimism. Father Berry says that “the catastrophic moments are also creative moments.”

“The Great Work” is an intellectually challenging book. It is also quite readable. Father Berry avoids the pitfalls of academese without sacrificing depth. He writes for a wide audience and expresses his ideas in ways that are inclusive and (small “c”) catholic.

He includes modes of spirituality from many different traditions, both Eastern and Western. The effect of this is that readers from diverse traditions can find valuable guidance here. t LeVeque is information services manager for Catholic News Service.

Word to Life January 30, Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle B Readings:

1) Deuteronomy 18:15-20 Psalm 95:1-2, 6-9 2) 1 Corinthians 7:32-35 3) Gospel: Mark 1:21-28

By Jean Denton Catholic News Service My friend’s two sons were locked in a power struggle yet again. The older boy had scheduled an activity that directly conflicted with his younger brother’s holiday plans. The latter was upset and disappointed, and their parents thought the older brother seemed a bit too triumphant for this to be a simple oversight. At their request he reluctantly rearranged his schedule — which was easily done — to accommodate his brother’s needs.

It seemed that these boys in their upper teens should have outgrown their sibling rivalry by now, but over the years they had inflicted emotional wounds on each other that hadn’t quite healed.

The younger brother was assertive and usually managed to get his way; the older brother had a number of serious personal struggles, a poor self-image and felt continually victimized.

Knowing this, their mother attempted to smooth her older son’s ruffled feathers. “You know, for something like this it’s OK to be the one to give in. It was a good thing to

do,” she told him.

“But, Mom, one of the things they told me in counseling is that I have to take care of myself and not always worry about other people or what they think,” he countered.

She knew this was so, but she didn’t know what to say. Then she heard herself telling him: “That’s true, but you can sacrifice for other people for love. That’s what the whole Christian life is about.”

“Don’t get me wrong, Mom, I love him; I’d die for him.”

“But what about the incremental sacrifice?” she asked him. “Yes, Jesus died for his people, but he also sacrificed incrementally throughout his life. He was ridiculed, ignored, scoffed at and ostracized over and over.”

Her son stopped arguing and just looked at her. The next day his attitude toward his brother was visibly changed. He smiled and silently shook his head as his younger sibling claimed superior knowledge of some trivial subject.

In this weekend’s readings God places his prophetic words in the mouths of the people among us so we can understand. And his word makes sense and takes hold because of the authority it bears in action.

My friend says she doesn’t “make a constant big deal” of reminding her kids of their Christian calling, but in this case it seemed appropriate. It made a difference because it was God’s word. t

Weekly Scripture Readings for the week of Jan. 30 - Feb. 5, 2000 Sunday (Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time), Deuteronomy 18:15-20, 1 Corinthians 7:32-35, Mark 1:21-28; Monday (St. John Bosco), 2 Samuel 15:13-14, 30; 16:5-13, Mark 5:1-20; Tuesday, 2 Samuel 18:9-10, 14, 24-25, 30-19:3, Mark 5:21-43; Wednesday (Presentation of the Lord), Malachai 3:1-4, Hebrews 2:14-18, Luke 2:22-40; Thursday (Sts. Blasé and Ansgar), 1 Kings 2:1-4, 10-12, Mark 6:7-13; Friday, Sirach 47:2-11, Mark 6:14-29; Saturday (St. Agatha), 1 Kings 3:4-13, Mark 6:30-34

January 28, 2000

Entertain-

The Catholic News & Herald 11

Engrossing documentary on Sidney Poitier to air on

By Gerri Pare Catholic News Service NEW YORK (CNS) — An actor who pioneered leading roles for African-Americans reflects on his life in “Sidney Poitier: One Bright Light,” airing Wednesday, Feb. 2, 8-9 p.m.

EST on PBS. The engrossing documentary, from the “American Masters” series, is directed by Oscar-winning actress Lee Grant, who co-starred with Poitier in “Sidney Poitier: One Bright Light” Feb. 2, 8-9 p.m. on PBS

1967’s memorable “In the Heat of the Night.”

Now in his early 70s, Poitier recalls an impoverished but not unhappy upbringing on a tiny tomato farm on Cat Island in the Bahamas. At 15, Poitier was sent to relatives in Miami but bristled at racial discrimination in the South and headed for New York.

Ridiculed when he auditioned for entry to the American Negro Theatre,

he resolved to learn the craft and so he bartered janitorial duties to gain admittance. For his stage debut he said his lines all out of sequence, which endeared him to the audience and gave him the confidence to go on and truly merit any positive critical response.

His racially charged 1950 debut film, “No Way Out” made him a hero in the Bahamas, but it was deemed too explosive to exhibit there. The resulting citizen protest group eventually led to the formation of a political party that would overturn British colonial rule of the Bahamas.

“Blackboard Jungle” in 1955 was Poitier’s first real hit and his performance in 1958’s “The Defiant Ones” with Tony Curtis brought him the first Academy Award nomination given for a black man in a leading role. But it was his 1963 stint in “Lilies in the Field” that garnered him the coveted Oscar.

However, a colleague relates that Poitier often felt very alone on studio lots as there were almost no other African-Americans employed in front of or behind the camera, and he became involved with the civil rights movement in the turbulent 1960s.

In 1967, Poitier starred in the top three releases of the year: “To Sir, With Love,” “In the Heat of the Night,” and “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner,” but following the 1968 King assassination Poitier was sharply criticized by black militants for being too passive.

Retreating to the Bahamas to reconsider his priorities, he turned to directing with 1972’s “Buck and the Preacher” and several other comedies, “Stir Crazy” being the most successful.

Returning in 1997 to South Africa, where he had filmed 1951’s “Cry, the Beloved Country,” Poitier starred in a TV movie as Nelson Mandela and attributes the man’s endurance to his spiritual inner strength.

Grant directs with somewhat less

CNS photo from Reuters

“Play It to the Bone” Tawdry drama in which best friends who are professional boxing rivals (Woody Harrelson and Antonio Banderas) battle it out in Las Vegas for big prize money and a chance at the middleweight championship title. Writer-director Ron Shelton substitutes brutal boxers, artificially voluptuous women and crude dialogue for plot and character development.

Recurring, gory boxing violence, fairly graphic sexual encounters, brief nudity and sexual references, negative references to religion, and constant rough language and profanity. The U.S. Catholic Conference classification is O — morally offensive. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R — restricted. of an emphasis on flowery praise by colleagues than is customary in star bios, although there are remarks by, among others, Poitier’s wife, directors Stanley Kramer and Norman Jewison, and Denzel Washington.

Poitier is mostly seen in facial close-ups and conveys a sense of integrity, pride and seriousness of purpose about becoming a skilled actor. His choice of roles also showed a deliberate commitment to improving the image of blacks to the mass audience with movies that dealt with racial issues previously ignored by the Hollywood studio system. And his often electric performances made the positive messages from these movies have resonance. t Pare is director of the U.S. Catholic Conference Office for Film and Broadcasting.

Other TV of note

Monday, Feb. 7, 10-11 p.m.

EST (PBS) “Duke Ellington’s Washington.” A look at the revival of an African-American community in Washington that in the early 20th century was the center of black culture in America and a jazz mecca for Duke Ellington, Pearl Bailey, Louis Armstrong, Cab Calloway and Ella Fitzgerald.

Wednesday, Feb. 9, 8-10:30 p.m. EST (PBS) “The Greeks: Crucible of Civilization.” An “Empires” special recounting the rise, glory, demise and legacy of the empire that marked the dawn of Western civilization as told through the eyes of ancient Greek heroes.

1 2 The Catholic News & Herald

January 28, 2000

Editorials & Col-

The Pope Speaks

POPE JOHN PAUL II

Contemplation of Trinity one of jubilee objectives, says pope

By Benedicta Cipolla Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Holy Year 2000 must include reflection on the Trinity, Pope John Paul II said.

At his general audience, he reminded the 4,000 pilgrims gathered in the Vatican’s Paul VI Audience Hall that the glorification of the Trinity is one objective of the jubilee.

Following catechesis cycles dedicated to each person of the Trinity, the pope urged all people to contemplate the Trinity, comparing such reflection to “the journey of a pilgrim along the river of God.” Expanding on the metaphor, he called the Trinity the river’s source and estuary, “the beginning and end of the history of salvation.”

While the Trinity is “beyond the possibilities of our intellect and can be known only through revelation,” the pope emphasized the Trinity’s primary place in all people’s lives.

“This mystery which infinitely overcomes us is also the reality closest to us, because it is at the source of our being,” said the pope.

“The mystery of the Trinity, far from being an arid truth confined to the intellect, is life which lives in us and sustains us,” he said.

Pope John Paul, who opened the Holy Door at the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls Jan. 18 to begin the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, concluded his catechesis with words from the Greek martyr St. Dionysios the Areopagite, who is revered by Catholics and Orthodox.

Affirming the need for contemplation, the pope quoted from one of the first-century theologian’s books: “It is in silence, in fact, that we learn the secrets of this darkness ... that shines with the most blinding of lights.”

St. Dionysios, whom St. Paul converted to Christianity, is the patron saint of Athens.

No pope can dissolve valid marriages, pope tells church tribunal VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The bond of the sacrament of marriage is so strong and sacred that not even the pope has the power to dissolve it, Pope John Paul II said. The pope, addressing members of the Roman Rota, a church tribunal that handles appeals of marriage annulment cases, said Jan. 21 that he wanted to put an end to speculation that a pontiff had the power to dissolve valid marriages as part of his role as “vicar of Christ.” “Faced with the doubts and confusion that could emerge, it is necessary to reaffirm that matrimony validly concluded and consummated can never be dissolved, not even by the power of the Roman pontiff,” he said. “The opposite argument would imply that no marriage is absolutely indissoluble, which would be contrary to what the church has taught and still teaches about the indissolubility of the marriage bond.”

Lighting the way to a new century Recently I experienced the happy privilege of celebrating a Mass at which about twenty pre-kindergarten children from St. Ann’s school participated. As you can imagine, throughout the celebration they manifested an enviable spirit of wonder and awe. Their attention was exemplary and their excitement was infectious.

During the homily I enjoyed a memorable dialogue with these pint-sized theologians. When I asked a question the little ones waved their arms enthusiastically hoping to be called upon to share their wisdom. At one point I queried, “How do we show our love for Jesus?” Each of the miniature sages seemed to have a ready response. As I pointed to one of the diminutive experts he shouted out, “Do good stuff and share.” In listening to his succinct sentiment I thought, “I couldn’t say it better myself !”

Nonetheless I was well aware that achieving that goal is easier said than done. The maturing believer must be assisted to know what is true or false, right or wrong, good or bad. An integral component of the process of formation is education.

Is it any surprise, then, that Jesus, on the occasion of His Ascension, commanded that the Church take seriously and implement faithfully the responsibility of teaching in His Name? Throughout her history the Church has employed various means and methods to respond consistently to that directive. One of the most viable and valuable vehicles has been the Catholic school.

How might this unique agency of the Church’s pastoral, educational mission be described? We must begin by acknowledging gratefully that it is a graced environment. It is founded upon the person and message of Jesus. He is present within this evangelizing and energizing community of faith day after day.

Jesus, the Light of the World, shares the warmth of His love and the brilliance of His truth with each of its participants.

What a blessing Catholic Schools have been and are in assisting children and youth to come to know Jesus as Redeemer, Teacher and Guide; in enabling them to become intimate with the Lord as they journey toward the Promised Land.

Editor’s Notebook JOANN S. KEANE Editor

kered down to keyboards.

Speaking of the paper We are hearing more and more of delayed delivery of The Catholic News & Herald. It certainly benefits no one to read of an event scheduled to take place ... yesterday. We were in contact with postal officials as we try to improve delivery. To gauge your delivery, parishioners within a 50-mile radius of Charlotte should receive the newspaper on Saturday.

Outside that circle, Tuesday is the late end of our anticipated date for delivery.

You can help us to help you. If your Catholic News is continually arriving late, contact your local carrier; that would be the postal center assigned to your zip code. Let them know your paper is late. If the paper continues to arrive late [give it a couple weeks], call, write or email our offices, and well take the tracing to the next level.

Catholic Education FATHER JAMES HAWKER Guest Columnist

The Catholic school in fulfilling its mandate is commissioned to participate in the four-fold mission of Jesus and the Church. First, it reveals the caring, compassionate presence of God while teaching that every person is special and valuable in His eyes. Second, it affirms that each of those whom it serves has a promise and potential hidden within, that he or she can be a responsible friend, disciple and witness of Jesus. Third, it teaches the maturing believer how to live and love, how to pray and play, how to relate and respond to God and to others.

Fourth, it addresses respectfully and creatively those manifestations of fear, confusion and bewilderment that are no strangers to the process of human and Christian growth and development.

It follows, then, that those who minister in the Catholic School are involved personally in the ineffable task of informing and forming. They assist the children and youth to cultivate their minds and hearts; to develop their talents and skills; to appropriate, assimilate and share the vision, values and virtues exemplified by the words and works of Jesus; to understand and appreciate that learning is for living.

In truth the Catholic School fulfills a truly valuable role in lighting the way to a new century. In assisting its participants to “do good stuff and share” it contributes to the up-building of the Kingdom of God in their hearts and in the world.

Father James Hawker in the Vicar for Education for the Diocese of Charlotte.

Come rain, or sleet or dark of night ....

This newspaper — specifically this edition — is nothing short of a marvel of modern technology.

While Mother Nature dealt us an unexpected blow earlier this week, leaving Charlotte with an uncharacteristic measure of the frozen white precipitation, The Catholic News faced a dilemna: How to publish on schedule without the advantage of having a full staff in the office.

For the first time since we’ve been publishing The Catholic News & Herald — almost a dozen years — a snow contingency plan hasn’t been put to the test.

Thanks to very mild winters, snow has become even less frequent than in decades past.

With the salvation of home computers, email and the Internet, this paper is the first to be completed sans personal [face-to-face] interaction. We’ve been in contact, mostly via email, following an orchestrated plan of writing, editing, and design.

Where we did fall short is also attributed to Mother Nature. This edition is in celebration of Catholic Schools Week. Several stories fell through due to inclement weather. A planned trip to Bishop McGuinness High School was put on the skids, thanks to icy roads and closed facilities. Pictures to accompany other stories were quickly replaced with graphic elements.

And so, I take this opportunity to extend thanks a dedicated staff: Secretary Jane Glodowski, Advertising Representative Cindi Feerick, Staff Writer Alesha Price, Production Associate Julie Radcliffe, and Associate Editor Jimmy Rostar. These are the folks who may have caught a glance of winter wonderland outside their kitchen windows, as they hun-

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

January 28, 2000

The Catholic News & Herald 13

Editorials & Col-

Catholic Education Father John C. Aurilia, OFM Cap., Ph.D. Guest Columnist came the reply. “Good,” said the Lord. “First, do you believe in me?” “I do,” said the atheist. “Second, let go of the branch.” At this my friend looked all the way down. Then he looked up again and cried out, “Who else up there can help me?”

In today’s world of superficial commitments, shifting values, and low standards, we all can become perpetual pallbearers sizing up our newest client. It is like the person I once met who read so much about the evils of drinking, that he gave up reading. Worry kills more people than does hard work, because more people look for worry than for work.

The third and final issue is fear, which makes us live in the past, afraid of facing the challenge of the future. The philosopher of history, George Santyana, once said, “those who forget the past are condemned to repeat it.” The past is important not because we live in the past, nor because we live for the past, but because we live out the challenge of the present.

A recent episode in Peanuts illustrates this in a striking way. One day Lucy decides to become a psychiatrist. She turns over an orange crate and chalks up a sign, “Psychiatric Help-Five Cents.” Who stumbles along but Charlie Brown. “Lucy,” he pleads, “what do you do if you don’t fit in? What do you do if you don’t seem to know what’s going on? What do you do if you don’t know what to do?” Lucy takes Charlie by the hand to the crest of a high hill, which overlooks a beautiful horizon. “Do you see that world out there, Charlie Brown?” she asks. “Yes,” he replies.

“Is that the only world you are going to live in for the next ten or twenty years?” “Yes.” “Are you sure this is the world in which you are going to live for the rest of your life?” “Yes.” “There is no other — you are sure?” “Yes.” “Well, in that case, won’t you please live in this world, stop complaining, and give me a nickel!”

We Catholics have a heritage. It is much more than two hundred years old. It goes back much further than the Declaration of Independence. Our Christian heritage comes out of our past, into our present, and walks with us into our future.

Father John C. Aurilia is Pastor of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Hendersonville, NC.

Speed, power, and change are flameextinguishers The theme of the Catholic Schools “Lighting the way to a new millennium” will unfold and will be implemented through the ups and downs of the third millennium. To make sure that this flame will always be shining, we must avoid the dangers which will extinguish the flame.

Hurry, worry, and fear will definitely play a very important role in the development of real and lasting education. One of my favorite writers in the pedagogical field is Henry Adams, the great-grandson of our second President. He wrote: “Nothing is worthless in education as the accumulation of knowledge in the form of inert facts and the sterile compilation of things known.”

Catholic Education does not leave us inert or indifferent. It cannot leave us apathetic and atrophied. In our century we experience speed, power, and change, which translate into hurry, worry, and fear. These three major issues can and do block our educational path.

First, hurry. The person who is always in a hurry is indeed a foolish person, because even the world, as big as it is, it is not big enough for that person, getting and spending are not fast enough to keep up with the market. In our fast lane, we don’t realize that we have been created by God in both his space and his time. We cannot turn back the hands of the clock.

Neither we can turn those hands ahead. If we try to do so, we make fools of ourselves. St. Paul, many centuries ago, could well tell the people of Corinth that the present, the NOW, is the acceptable time for our salvation. Strangely enough, the older we get, the more likely we will say, “I don’t have the time.” We are rushing frantically about, looking for time. Did it ever occur to you that when you do that, you actually waste time, rather than finding time?

The second major issue is worry. So much talk today is about the threat of pollution — air pollution, food pollution, water pollution, and noise pollution.

The real threat, however, is psychological pollution in the form of worry. The worrier of today reminds one of the perpetually complaining hypochondriac who had carved on his tombstone the inscription, “See, I told you I was sick!”

Another intriguing story tells of an atheist who one day decided to climb a high mountain. He got up to the top all right, but slipped while climbing back down. As he plummeted downward, he desperately grabbed a thin branch protruding from the side. He hung thousands of feet up the mountain. He looked down and could see no one. He looked up and saw the same. Looking down again, he loudly cried out, “Is there anyone down there who can help me?” No answer. So our friend looked up and asked the same question, “Is there anyone up there who can help me?” At that a voice came from heaven, “I can help you.” Overwhelmed, our atheist friend queried, “Who are you?” “I am God,” came the response. “Will you help me?” “Yes,” said the Lord, “but first I want to know if you will do whatever I ask you.” “I will,”

What is Catholic Schools Week?

Catholic Schools Week is an annual national celebration of the important role that Catholic elementary and secondary schools across the country play in providing a values-added education for America’s young people. Catholic schools are proud of their educational network that emphasizes intellectual, spiritual, moral, physical, and social values in their students. Catholic Schools Week is a key part of the year-long National Marketing Campaign for Catholic Schools.

What is the purpose of the Catholic Schools Week celebration?

The purpose of Catholic Schools Week is to build community awareness of, and involvement in, Catholic schools throughout the country. During this week, many dioceses and schools encourage parents to take full advantage of the benefits of local Catholic schools by enrolling their children in those schools. CSW is also an occasion for schools to interest citizens in volunteering their time and talents to the local Catholic schools.

What does Catholic Schools Week celebrate?

Catholic Schools Week celebrates education that goes beyond preparation for a secular life. It is education that prepares students for a Christian life.

CSW also celebrates the high standards of excellence and the quality of the education available to all students in Catholic elementary and secondary schools across the U.S.

Who sponsors Catholic Schools Week?

Catholic Schools Week is a joint project of the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) and the United States Catholic Conference (USCC).

Individual dioceses and local Catholic elementary and secondary schools develop and promote their own CSW activities each year.

Catholic Schools DR. MICHAEL SKUBE Guest Columnist Lighting the way to a new century elcome to a week-long celebration of reflecting on traditions and of new beginnings. Pope John Paul II wishes that the time of the Jubilee Year will be a “new springtime of Christian life” to strengthen our faith and our Christian witness. This is a week we take stock of where we have been and how far we have come. We are expectant and hopeful for the innovations, discoveries and events that will shape our schools and the children they serve.

Catholic Schools Week 2000 has a special focus for each day of the week.

Sunday, January 30, 2000: IN OUR PARISH. Our diocese, parishes and schools not only appreciate each other but also are linked in spreading the light of faith to a wider world.

Monday, January 31, 2000: IN OUR COMMUNITY. Centered in the community, our schools serve and benefit from its neighbors. This is the day to celebrate those links and forge new bonds for the future.

Tuesday, February 31, 2000: THROUGH OUR STUDENTS. As of this year, we have 2,000 years of Catholic education to celebrate. And that means 2,000 years of students — from the shepherds and wise men that learned the miracle of Christmas from the Holy Infant, to students currently in the midst of their first year of Catholic school. With such a rich heritage, it’s appropriate that we focus on students themselves who are being trained as the leaders of tomorrow.

Wednesday, February 2: IN OUR NATION. By providing comprehensive, quality education to 7,193 students this year, our 17 Catholic schools significantly reduce the educational and financial burden otherwise borne by the state of North Carolina and the local public school districts in which our schools are located.

In fact, current statistics show that our Catholic schools are a $36,000,000 (yes, 36 million!) gift to the taxpayers of North Carolina.

And that is on an annual basis. This figure is the minimum it would cost annually to educate our students in the local public schools. This does not include the costs of building schools, which amounts to millions of additional dollars.

Moreover, the students educated today in Catholic schools go on to become leaders of our private and public sectors, statewide and nationwide.

Thursday, February 3: THROUGH OUR VOLUNTEERS. Where would our schools be without its volunteers? Clearly, they have had an incredible positive impact on our programs, which our students have benefited. Today is their day, a time to take a moment to celebrate all their hard work, contribution, selfless example, and everything they accomplish in ensuring that Catholic education can light the way to a new century.

Friday, February 4: THROUGH OUR TEACHERS. Today’s students are the leaders of the new century.

W

See DR. SKUBE, page 15

1 4 The Catholic News & Herald

Catholic

Catholic Schools Week arrives January

WASHINGTON, D.C. — “Catholic Schools: Lighting the Way to a New Century” is the theme for the 26th annual celebration of Catholic Schools Week, Jan. 30-Feb. 5, 2000.

The event is part of The National Marketing Campaign For Catholic Schools, a joint program of the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) and the United States Catholic Conference (USCC). This year’s logo features a bright starburst shooting over the earth. A cross is the nucleus of the design.

“Recent themes for the national campaign and Catholic Schools Week have focused on the Catholic foundation of our schools, from which all else flows — a curriculum infused with values, high academic standards and discipline,” said Leonard DeFiore, NCEA president.

Sister Lourdes Sheehan, RSM, USCC, secretary for education, said that the “lighting the way to a new century” theme has a special message for parents. “Catholic schools do provide a ‘guiding light’ for parents who are increasingly concerned that character and values education play a key role in the curriculum.”

The purpose of Catholic Schools Week is to build support and recognition for the over 8,200 Catholic schools nationwide. During this week, many dioceses encourage parents to enroll their children in Catholic schools.

CSW also is an opportunity to interest citizens in volunteering their time and talents to local Catholic schools.

National Appreciation Day

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.

Computer Systems Administrator: The Diocese of Charlotte is accepting applications for a Computer Systems Administrator. The position is responsible for all computer and database management activities, including administration of an NT network, internet applications, software applications, and user training and support. Applicants should have a minimum of 3 years of recent professional experience administering computer systems. EOE. Please forward resume and salary history to Finance Officer, 1123 S. Church St., Charlotte NC 28203.

Director of Development for Campus Ministry: The Diocesan Office of Development has an

National Appreciation Day falls on the Wednesday of Catholic Schools Week. This day was established to encourage supporters nationwide to showcase the great accomplishments and contributions of Catholic schools to our country.

In Washington, a delegation of over 100 Catholic school students, teachers and parents will visit Capitol Hill on Wednesday, February 2 to meet with congressional leaders to promote Catholic schools. As part of their marathon day, they will handdeliver letters from chief administrators of Catholic education to their representatives and provide a background package on Catholic schools to every congressional office.

Across the country, diocesan and school leaders also meet with civic officials on this day. Governors, big city mayors, and small town councils have joined in to proclaim “National Appreciation Day for Catholic Schools” in their localities year after year. On this day in particular, advocates are urged to wear a “Faith for a Brighter Future” button to show their support.

The National Marketing Campaign for Catholic Schools was established by USCC and NCEA to promote Catholic schools year round. Thus the “lighting the way to a new century” theme and logo advancing Catholic education is used daily, not only during Catholic Schools Week. Now in its tenth year, the marketing effort was 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 formation 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.

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 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, sal-

launched to help create awareness of the value of a Catholic education and to increase enrollment.

“Family Circus” returns The campaign also features an illustration from well-known “Family Circus” cartoonist Bill Keane. Fifth in a series, the design depicts Billy and Dolly in a classroom where an angel hovers above. It is titled “School Spirit.”

Campaign materials provide schools with a “turn-key” package for

January 28, 2000

marketing and include buttons, posters, banners and billboards.

Products ranging from flags to T-shirts and sweatshirts may be personalized so that educators can customize their marketing efforts. Television commercials which promote the values of a Catholic secondary education also are available.

A popular campaign poster, which has been adapted for billboard and print advertisements, features a majestic sunrise. The headline reads: “Let There Be Light (And Faith. And Knowledge. And A Future Without Limits.)”

Members of the National Marketing Committee include Sister Lourdes Sheehan, RSM; Reverend William Davis, USCC Representative for Federal Assistance for Catholic Schools; Ms. Regina Haney, executive director, National Association of Catholic Boards of Education; Dr. Robert Kealey, executive director, Department of Elementary Schools and Daniel Curtin, executive director, Chief Administrators of Catholic Education (CACE).

NCEA is the largest private, professional education association in the world. Founded in 1904, the association’s membership represents more than 200,000 educators serving 7.6 million students at all levels of Catholic education. USCC is the national policy organization of the bishops in the United States. 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. ary 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 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 314015196; fax(912)238-2339; e-mail Cooper0987@aol. com.

For Sale: Friendship Glen — Beautiful new high quality homes/homesites. Northeast Guilford REAL ESTATE County. Large lots.

Please pass the word along to those moving to (or in) the Greensboro, Reidsville, Burlington areas. Thank you. Call Philippe White - part-owner/broker (336)272-1011.

January 28, 2000

The Catholic News & Herald 15

Catholic

Catholic Schools experience “Bull Market” with new schools and waiting

Washington, D.C. — When Catholic schools opened their doors for the 1999-2000 school year, there were 36 new doors through which students entered. According to a study published by the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA), 36 Catholic schools opened during the 1998-1999 school year.

Dr. Leonard DeFiore, NCEA president made the announcement based on data included in the new publication, “United States Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools 1998-1999”, NCEA’s annual statistical report on schools, enrollment and staffing.

Dr. DeFiore added that 200 new Catholic schools have been opened within the past decade. Currently there are 8,217 Catholic schools nationwide.

The NCEA president also reported that Catholic school enrollment remained stable over the past year and that overall enrollment has increased by 81,000 students during the past six years. In addition, 41 percent of Catholic schools have a waiting list for admission.

Total enrollment nationwide now stands at 2,648,844. Waiting lists exist in most suburban schools, and, where diocesan and privately funded scholarship support is available in inner-city schools, long waiting lists for lotterylike selection processes have resulted.

“These statistics remind me of the soaring stock market. It’s a great story reflecting unprecedented growth and confidence in the system,” said Dr. DeFiore. “Like the flip side of the bull market, the good news isn’t reaching out to everyone — in our case the thousands of families who are on waiting lists for admission and the thousands more for whom Catholic

schools are unattainable due to economic limitations.”

“Our greatest challenge in 2000 and beyond is working for a just educational system in this country,” said Dr. DeFiore. “Our waiting lists and new schools are a sensational statement about parents’ motivation to choose schools. But what about the millions of other parents who have the will but no way of financing their school choice?”

Elementary and Secondary numbers Dr. Robert Kealey, executive director, NCEA Elementary School Department, said that the total number of Catholic elementary school students is 1,990,947; middle school enrollment numbers 22,155.

“Of special note is the continued increase in preschool admission — up 5.7 per cent,” said Dr. Kealey. “It’s clear that parents recognize the value of early childhood education and are looking to Catholic schools for a values-based curriculum and academic excellence.”

Michael Guerra, executive director, NCEA Secondary Schools Department, reported that 635,742 students are enrolled in Catholic high schools, up from 633,818 students last year.

“More parents are choosing Catholic secondary schools for their children, but there is a long list of those who cannot afford tuition, in spite of financial aid packages available at most of our schools,” said Mr. Guerra.

“Catholic school leaders are essential partners in the school choice movement because we are committed to justice for all children.”

Regina Haney, executive director, National Association of Catholic

Snap Sources: The National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA), 1999

Boards of Education (NABE), said that strong board support has been a key factor in the success story of Catholic schools. “The foundations for many of our new schools are built on parent and corporate partnerships with a vision for the educational growth of their parish or diocese.”

NCEA is the world’s largest professional association for private education. Established in 1904, the association represents some 200,000 educators serving 7.6 million students at all levels of Catholic education. t

Dr. Skube, from page 13 And, their education is the foundation for our future. Our Catholic school teachers have a unique opportunity to touch that future. They teach more than academics for they help to instill the self-worth and spirituality tomorrow’s adults will need in order to face the challenges ahead.

Join our Catholic schools this week

in lighting the way to a new century!

Dr. Michael Skube is Diocesan Superintendent of Schools.

1 6 The Catholic News & Herald

January 28, 2000

Living the

Women who’ve lived under legal abortion tell pro-life

By Mark Pattison Catholic News Service WASHINGTON (CNS) — At this year’s March for Life, there weren’t as many handmade signs attacking supporters of legal abortion.

But as the thousands of marchers gathered Jan. 24 at the Ellipse, with the White House in plain sight, in abundance were women who have lived their entire lives with abortion on demand as the law of the land.

Nancy Lee, who works in the admissions office of Christendom College in Front Royal, Va., is 26 years old —

Catherine Leonard, 16, who attends the eight-student St. John Bosco High School in Leesburg, Va., can’t vote yet. But, if she wanted to, she could get an abortion. too young to run for the Senate, but able to get an abortion if she so chose.

Instead, she has chosen life.

“Growing up, my parents were always very pro-life, and we would always go to rallies,” Lee said. Now, she volunteers at a crisis pregnancy center.

“Teen-agers come in. It’s a hard thing,” she said. “But their parents aren’t going to encourage them” to carry the pregnancy to term.

Sharon Pollitt, 21, and her sister, Kathleen, 23, of East Templeton, Mass., aren’t old enough to run for a seat in the House of Representatives.

But they’re old enough to obtain abortions.

But they are also old enough to help support a family life center in nearby Fitchburg, Mass. — and to make their third trip to Washington for the March for Life.

“We just decided that this year this was something we wanted to do — to make a stance, to be a presence,” Sharon said.

In a society where abortion is legal, what motivates them to be prolife? “God creates life. He is the author of life,” answered Kathleen.

Parental support also plays a factor.

Their mother brought them to Washington the first two times. “She taught us,” Sharon said. But now both parents are physically unable to make the trip.

“They’re here in spirit,” she added.

Mary Veronica Price, 20, of Linden, Calif., can’t drink alcohol legally yet, but she can get an abortion. Instead, she and her 260 fellow students at Christendom College got the day off from classes and took part in the march.

“I’m the sixth of 14 kids,” said Price, a sophomore. Being pro-life is “the way it’s always been presented to me. And when I started looking into it on my own — I mean, it’s the slaughter of little babies.”

Catherine Leonard, 16, who attends the eight-student St. John Bosco High School in Leesburg, Va., can’t vote yet. But, if she wanted to, she could get an abortion.

Not that unintended pregnancies are going to be a problem for her anytime soon. “Just not having sex at our age would go a long way toward solving the problem,” Leonard said. “I’m

CNS photo by Martin Lueders

Brendan Quinn, 1, and his sister, Moira, 6, were among the tens of thousands of people who rallied Jan. 24 in Washington to mark the anniversary of the Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion. They came with their mother, Edel Quinn, from St. Genevieve’s Catholic Church in Newark, N.J. not sexually active.”

That’s not the case with others, she added. “I heard three people this year talk about getting pregnant,” Leonard said.

She expressed surprise at the small turnout a half-hour before the pre-march rally began. While marchers slowly but steadily made their way to the Ellipse during the rally, march

organizers did not give their own crowd estimate from the platform as they have customarily done. The U.S. Park Police no longer makes crowd estimates.

“If you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem,” Leonard said. “If you can’t even stand somewhere ...” she added in exasperation, her sentence left unfinished. “I just don’t know why people wouldn’t want to march.”

Erika Doe, 14, came with 17-yearold sister Christina and several others from the youth group at St. Mary Parish in Lancaster, Pa. She got a ride for the three-hour trip — she’s not old enough to drive, but she could get an abortion if she wanted one.

Erika remarked at how bizarre it seemed that society trusts her in one sphere but not in another. She added that she got her pro-life beliefs from the Bible. In trying to explain it, she declared, “You just know that it’s killing.”

The Supreme Court has said it will decide on the constitutionality of parental notification laws, but until then — and maybe after — Rebecca Adams, 12, a seventh grader at St. Theresa Grade School in Ashburn, Va., could get an abortion without telling her folks.

Rebecca sees another dichotomy between what society deems acceptable and what it doesn’t. “Every day in the news media you see it all the time — murder, killing, war. But it’s OK to have an abortion,” she said.

“You have to look at them both — what is murder outside the womb, and what is murder inside the womb.” t