Feb. 4, 2000

The Catholic News & Herald 1

February 4, 2000

February 4, 2000 Volume 9 t Number 22

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

Inside Permanent deacons celebrate Rite of Lector ...Page 3

DSA 2000 The Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte

Lay program opens door to realizing gifts of ministry Pope clears way for Pope John XXIII’s beatification ...Page 6

Bishop Curlin extends invitation to help others

the Doors to Christ.

...Page 13

Local News Prep program readies couples for marriage ...Page 5

Ministry making strides with diocesan Hispanics

2000 Diocesan Support Appeal

...Page 16

Every Week Entertainment ...Pages 10-11

Editorials & Columns ...Pages 12-13

... Pages 8-9

February 5, 2000 — March 19, 2000

2 The Catholic News & Herald orders were more likely than women’s orders to have a Web site. The average site gets about 1,000 hits a month and the order uses it mainly to communicate to a wider public and to recruit vocations, the study found. The Commission on Religious Life and Ministry sponsored the study.

Seton Hall memorial service begins healing process after fire SOUTH ORANGE, N.J. (CNS) — The healing process has begun at Seton Hall University in South Orange following the Jan. 19 dormitory fire that killed three freshmen and injured more than 50 other students. In an emotional and somber campus memorial service Jan. 27, Walsh Gymnasium was filled with an estimated 5,000 clergy, family, friends, faculty and administrators. Classes resumed following the service. The fatal fire broke out in the third floor commons room of Boland Hall at about 4:30 a.m. Built in 1952, Boland Hall houses some 600 mostly freshmen students.

Patriarch decries disputes over Eastern Catholic churches WARSAW, Poland (CNS) — Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, leader of the world’s 200 million Orthodox Christians, warned that disputes over Eastern Catholic churches will overshadow the planned reopening of a major Catholic-Orthodox commission. But the head of Poland’s Ukrainian Catholic Church criticized the patriarch’s remarks, saying they would have “negative repercussions” for interchurch relations.

Priests in Kenya criticize security response after killings NAIROBI, Kenya (CNS) — Priests

Snowmonk in D.C. A snowman decorated as a monk appears at the entrance to the Dominican House of Studies in Washington.

The nation’s capital experienced its first big snow of the season causing school and government closings Jan. 25-26.

CNS photo by Bob Roller

Holy Cyberspace! Nuns on the Web! WASHINGTON (CNS) — A research project dubbed “Holy Cyberspace” has found that more and more U.S. religious orders have their own World Wide Web sites. It found that the number of such sites roughly doubled in two years and will continue to grow rapidly in the near future. Men’s

February Jubilee Days

February — Black History Month February 6 — National Day of Prayer for African-Americans February 6-7 — Jubilee Day for Consecrated Life February 11 — Jubilee of the Sick & Health Care Workers February 18 — Jubilee of Artists February 20 — Jubilee of Permanent Deacons and their wives February 22 — Jubilee of Roman Curia February 25-27 — Parish Mission on Vatican II

Episcopal

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February 4, 1999 Volume 9 • Number 22

Bishop William G. Curlin will take part in the following events:

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.

February 8 — 11:30 am Priest Personnel Meeting Pastoral Center, Charlotte February 12 — 5:30 pm St. Mark Parish Center dedication Huntersville February 17 Foundation of the Diocese of Charlotte Board Meeting Catholic Conference Center, Hickory February 19 Day of Reflection Knights and Dames of Malta February 20 — 4:00 pm Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree 100th Anniversary celebration of the Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree Our Lady of Grace, Greensboro

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

February 4, 2000

The World in

working in a parish in Kenya’s Rift Valley province criticized slow response of government security personnel after numerous killings in their district. Consolata Father Anthony Biaanchi, who has been working with the people of Rumuruti Parish in Laikipia since l953, said in a late-January interview that security personnel in the area do not respond to distress calls until it is too late. More than 20 people have been killed since August in the Rumuruti area, and no one has been arrested to date, he added.

Vatican opens confession area near St. Peter’s for jubilee VATICAN CITY (CNS) — To underscore the sacrament of reconciliation’s particular importance in the Holy Year, Vatican officials equipped a special area off St. Peter’s Square with confessionals for jubilee pilgrims. In-

Diocesan

plan -

12:10-1 p.m. The presenter is Benedictine Father Samuel Webster, retreat master, spiritual director and faculty member at Wake Forest School of Divinity in early Christianity, worship and spiritual life.

For pre-registration and other information, call (336) 273-2554.

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-NJava” 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 churches.

augurated Jan. 28, the confession room in the Braccio di Carlo Magno, one of the two wings linking the square’s colonnade with the basilica, was furnished with eight confessionals, serving various languages. Officials said the new confession area was independent of, and in addition to, the array of permanent confessionals inside St. Peter’s Basilica. Anticipating a heavier flow of penitents during the jubilee year, the basilica more than doubled its staff to 27 full-time confessors.

USCC lauds FCC decision OK’ing low-power radio WASHINGTON (CNS) — The U.S. Catholic Conference Communications Committee voiced pleasure with the Federal Communications Commission’s decision to license low-power radio stations in the United States.

“The new local radio stations launched by the FCC offer the promise of greater diversity of voices heard on radio,” the committee said in a Jan. 21 statement.

“While this new radio service is helpful in opening the airwaves to more public interest programming, it does not eliminate the obligations of each existing full-power radio station to serve the needs and interests of their community,” it added.

Pro-life comments to NIH urged on embryonic stem-cell research WASHINGTON (CNS) — The U.S. bishops’ pro-life office and a coalition of scientists and ethicists are leading a last-ditch effort to stop the National Institutes of Health from allowing federal funding of stem-cell research involving embryos. A flier distributed by the bishops’ office before and during the Jan. 24 March for Life said the NIH had set a Jan. 31 deadline for public comment on its draft guidelines for federal funding of embryonic stem-cell research. “The guidelines tell researchers how to obtain and destroy live human embryos from fertility clinics, so the embryos’ inner cells can be cultured for taxpayer-funded research,” the flier said.

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.

February 4, 2000

DSA

The Catholic News & Herald 3

Permanent deacons celebrate Rite of

BY ELLEN NEERINCX SIGMON Correspondent HICKORY — After six months of spiritual preparation and two-anda-half years of study, the eight candidates in formation for the permanent diaconate in the Diocese of Charlotte received the Rite of Lector, a key step toward ordination.

Bishop William G. Curlin presided at the Jan. 22 Mass that included the rite at St. Aloysius Catholic Church.

The bishop gave the candidates this advice during his homily: “Make sure prayer is the basis of your life. Talk to Jesus constantly, and you will have the heart, you will have the mind, you will think like Christ.”

The eight men are scheduled to receive the Rite of Acolyte on Aug. 5 and the Rite of Admission to Candidacy on Oct 7.

Their ordination is set for June 9, 2001.

“The program’s really e vo l v i n g t o meet the needs of the diocese as time goes on,” said Rev. Louis Pais, director of formation for the permanent diaconate program. He noted that new classes of candidates might be restructured in the future.

The U.S. bishops’ Committee on the Diaconate has sent out a draft copy of new guidelines for the formation, ministry and life of permanent deacons in the United States, said Rev. Mr. Pais. This may result in changes in the order and the times in which the rites are given to the candidates.

For example, the Rite of Candidacy may be given during the first year of training, the Rite of Lector during the second year and the Rite of Acolyte in the third year. Currently all three rites come in the third and fourth years of study.

The Rite of Lector gives the can-

didates the responsibility to proclaim the word of God, except the Gospel, during Mass and other liturgical celebrations. They may also be called upon to lead the people in the liturgy if other ministers are not present, and to instruct the faithful for their reception of the sacraments.

The Rite of Acolyte will enable the candidates to assist deacons and priests in the celebration of the liturgy, and to serve as eucharistic ministers during the liturgy and to the sick or shut-in. They will also be called to care for the body of Christ and the people of God, especially the weak and the needy.

In the Rite of Admission to Candidacy, the men will publicly offer themselves for ordained service to God and the church.

Although the role of deacon dates back to the early church shortly after the Resurrection, the move for its restoration began in the mid-1940s, and the Second Vatican Council called for the restoration “as a proper and permanent rank of the hierarchy” in its Constitution of the Church. The Diocese of Charlotte inaugurated its permanent diaconate program in 1980.

Currently, 65 permanent deacons live and serve in the diocese.

A permanent deacon is an ordained minister of the Catholic Church and part of the hierarchical structure of bishop, priest and deacon. Besides his liturgical role, he is called to give of himself to the poor, the hungry, the sick and the suffering. Most deacons are expected to support themselves with earnings from everyday occupations, and to perform diaconal duties on evenings and weekends. By working in secular jobs, deacons help to establish a visible link between the church and secular society.

For example, Scott D. Gilfillan, a candidate from St. Joseph Catholic Church in Newton, is a general manager for a steel service center. He and wife Kimberly have three children, ages

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.

NORTH WILKESBORO — For those interested in participating in a graduate-level education for ministers and educators, there is a Limex orientation meeting this afternoon at 2:30 p.m. at St. John the Baptist de la Salle Church, 275 C.C. Wright School Rd. Limex is an extension program of Loyola University of New Orleans, which prepares men and women in ministry with practical and theological skills. For details, call Joanna Case at (704) 362-0013 or Peg Ruble at (704) 391-0445.

15 WINSTON-SALEM — There is a natural family planning session at St. Leo the Great Church, 335 Springdale Ave., tonight at 7:30 p.m. For more information, call Tom and Mary Beth Young at (336) 922-0479.

17 GREENSBORO — The Franciscan Center, 233 North Greene St., is presenting “Benedictine Among Baptists: Breaking Down Barriers” this afternoon from

February 7 WINSTON-SALEM — St. Leo the Great Church, 335 Springdale Ave., is hosting a mission entitled “Spirituality for the New Millennium,” continuing today through Feb. 10. A reconciliation service is being held on the evening of Feb. 8, and anointing of the sick is being held on the evening of Feb. 10. Call the church office at (336) 724-0561 for more information.

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.

11 WINSTON-SALEM — All cursillistas are invited to an Ultreya at Joseph’s House, 1903 South Main St., tonight at 7:30 p.m. Babysitting is provided, and for more information, call Brian Lockhart at (704) 377-3595 or (704) 972-8912.

Joseph’s House is a ministry of Our Lady of Mercy Church.

12 CHARLOTTE — The Bereavement Ministry of St. Peter Church,

Photo by Ellen Neerincx Sigmon

Pierre K’Briuh of St. Mary parish receives his lectionary from Bishop William G. Curlin during the Rite of Lector Mass.

16, 14 and 8. When he first considered the diaconate, four years seemed like a long time. “It’s been one little step at a time,” he said. “Each weekend I say to myself, ‘Where does God want me to be this weekend?’ That helps me put it into perspective.”

Gilfillan said that the Rite of Lector was very meaningful for him.

“When Deacon Louie (Pais) called my name, and I answered, ‘Present,’ it was the first time I felt like I was being called.” Before that, he said, “It wasn’t really a call, but just a sense that this was the right thing to do. It’s a way of defining who you are.”

The formation program consists of six months of spiritual preparation and four academic years. To be accepted, a man must live in the Diocese of Charlotte and must have completed the diocesan lay ministry program. He must be at least 32 years old when accepted into the program, and not older than 60 before completion. He must be healthy and be able to master the academic and ministerial disciplines

of the program. He must accept the church’s requirement that once he is ordained a permanent deacon he may not marry thereafter. If he is married, his wife needs to be supportive of her husband’s participation in the program, and must agree to attend the classes with him.

Matthew Zboyovski, a candidate from St. Eugene Church in Asheville, spoke about the Rite of Lector. “It was a nice mile marker,” he said. “It reinforces your commitment to the diaconate training. After two-and-a-half years of academics, this is finally a first step where it begins to come together.”

The other men who received the Rite of Lector Saturday are Pierre K’Briuh of St. Mary parish in Greensboro, David King of Our Lady of Highways parish in Thomasville, Gerard LaPointe of St. Margaret parish in Maggie Valley, Alexander Lyerly of St. Elizabeth parish in Boone, James Mazur of Sacred Heart parish in

507 South Tryon St., is having a remembrance service today at 1 p.m. to celebrate the memory of departed loved ones. People may bring a small memento of their departed friends and family members. After the service, refreshments are being served. For further information, call the church office at (704) 372-6808 or (704) 332-2901.

CHARLOTTE — The Athletic Association of Our Lady of Consolation Church, 2301 Statesville Ave., is sponsoring an Olympic Gospel Choir Concert tonight at 7 p.m. The proceeds from this fund-raiser will help the athletic department. For further information, call the church office at (704) 375-4339.

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

13 ASHEVILLE — St. Joan of Arc Church, 919 Haywood Ave., is celebrating the sacrament of the sick at the 11:30 a.m. Mass this morning. For

more information, call the church office at (828) 252-3151.

CHARLOTTE — The Rt. Rev. Francis Kline, abbot of Mepkin Abbey in Moncks Corner S.C., and a Julliardtrained organist, discusses the spiritual aspects of music and presents an organ recital today at 5 p.m. in the sanctuary of Myers Park United Methodist church, 1020 Providence Rd. For more information, call (704) 376-8584.

CHARLOTTE — Jesuit Father John Gallen, professor of liturgy and former editor of “Modern Liturgy,” is giving a retreat entitled “The Experience of the God of Mystery,” focusing on the relationship of liturgy and life.

The three-day retreat, beginning tonight at 7 p.m., is being held at Our Lady of Assumption Church, 4207 Shamrock Dr. For more information, call Mary Kay Crotty at (704) 5365452.

CHARLOTTE — There is a charismatic Mass being held at St. Patrick Cathedral, 1621 Dilworth Ave. East, today at

See PERMANENT DIACONATE, page 5

4 The Catholic News & Herald

DSA

February 4, 2000

Lay program opens door to realizing gifts of

By JIMMY ROSTAR Associate Editor ELKIN — Chuck Lucas feels an obligation to know and live his faith. At his home church community of St. Stephen in Elkin, he’s had opportunity to serve as a catechist and, currently, as parish council president. As a new father, he speaks with enthusiasm of passing the faith on to younger generations.

Lucas says his own faith journey continues to lead him in new directions. And as a participant in the Diocese of Charlotte’s lay ministry program, he says he is gaining information about the faith that will serve him — and those he reaches in ministry — for a lifetime.

“I think there’s always a need for knowing more about your faith to pass that faith on, and the lay ministry program can give you a lot of that background,” says Lucas. “If you see the group that’s involved from our two churches, in our own instance it’s a real sign that our faith is alive.”

The two churches Lucas speaks of are St. John Baptist de La Salle Church in North Wilkesboro and its mission in Elkin, St. Stephen Church. He is one of seven parishioners from the two small churches in the foothills currently enrolled in the program.

Nearly 125 people from points throughout the diocese comprise the lay ministry class of 2000, which is expected to graduate in May. The twoyear program is a blend of academics and spiritual growth, with emphasis on participants’ realizing their gifts for ministry to their fullest potential.

Groups of participants convene once a month at sites in Arden, Greensboro and Charlotte.

Founded in the diocese in 1990, the program was designed for men and women who seek to foster confidence and competence in their ministry in family, church, professional and community life. It is also necessary for en-

ever they are asked to answer questions about church life and beliefs.”

For Ellie Elledge, a stay-at-home mom and a parishioner at St. John Baptist de La Salle Church, the program has added on to a foundation of faith she has built through active parish life and a desire to learn more.

“I would always like to be involved in church life,” says Elledge, who teaches second-grade catechesis and the parish’s first Communion class.

“It is important for my children to see me involved and to know that your faith (development) does not end after you’ve gone through Sunday school.

“You’re always changing and you’re always growing if you are serious about your faith.”

Elledge says the program also links participants from throughout the diocese, who hail from points both sparsely and heavily populated

by Catholics and who seek “starting points” of entry into various forms of ministry.

That the lay ministry program serves as a stepping stone is an idea with which Mary Sorel agrees.

“The program really does get people more interested in helping and becoming more aware of the needs the church is going to have in the future,” says Sorel, St. John Church’s faith formation director.

She adds that, especially in areas as rural as Wilkes and Surry counties, the call of lay Catholics to greater church involvement is an important one.

For nearly 500 lay Catholics across the diocese in a decade, that call has been explored through the lay ministry program. Participants often move into or are reaffirmed in a variety of parish and diocesan-sponsored ministries, including the Loyola Institute for Ministry Extension program, the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults and parish religious education.

Like Mary Sorel, Patricia McNeill has been involved with the lay ministry group from St. John and St. Stephen churches from the beginning. She notes the camaraderie that naturally exists in a program that brings together people with commonalties.

File photo

The lay ministry program is one of the 35 ministries and programs receiving funds from the annual Diocesan Support Appeal. try into the diocesan permanent diaconate program, while catechists and religious education teachers can upgrade their certification by participating.

The program includes eight courses: Introductions to Ministry and Scripture; Christology, Church and Church History; Social Ministry; Vatican II Documents; Liturgy and Sacraments; and Christian Morality. Registration and tuition fees, plus the cost of books, are the primary expenses involved.

Whether for teachers, parish leaders or people in the pews, the lay ministry program has one constant. “The majority of people come for personal growth, which says to me that people are hungry for learning more about their faith,” says Mercy Sister Mary Timothy Warren, diocesan vicar for women religious and director of the lay ministry program.

“This program is not really a training program in that we don’t train people for ministry,” she says. “We really give them information concerning Vatican II teachings so that they are better able to minister in their own (church) ministries, in the marketplace or wher-

“This program provides a way of connecting to people with the same religion,” says McNeill, director of religious education at St. Stephen Church. “Because we (Catholics) are in the minority here, we want that connectedness with other Catholics. We want to know the church’s perspective on things, and we’ve realized as adults that your education is not finished with confirmation.”

Common interests intrigue Chuck Lucas, though the uniqueness of a lifelong search — both personal and collective — is another element that keeps him interested in making the trip to Greensboro for lay ministry gatherings each month.

“Coming to be part of a larger group, you’re able to share that faith with people whose journeys are really at different points,” he says. “It’s interesting to see how that changes your perspective sometimes. It’s good to have someone along for that journey.”

For information on the lay ministry program, call Sister Mary Timothy Warren at (704) 370-3213. t Contact Associate Editor Jimmy Ro-

February 4, 2000

By Joann S. Keane Editor WINSTON-SALEM — Read this before renting the tux, or calling for a limousine. If a wedding is in your future, the Diocese of Charlotte is ready with programs to help a couple prepare, before ordering a multi-tiered cake.

It may well be the day of a lifetime.

But it is just that: A day in the life. And the Diocese of Charlotte is intent on sending newlyweds on their merry way well prepared for their lifetime together.

To wit, diocesan policies proclaim its obligation to provide adequate preparation for couples prior to marriage. Participation in a marriage preparation program — approved by the diocese — is the cornerstone required as a preamble to wedded bliss.

Fulfillment of this prerequisite may take one of three routes. Some parishes operate their own pre-Cana programs. Others refer people to En-

Permanent Diaconate, from page 3

Salisbury, and Mark Nash of St. Thomas Aquinas parish in Charlotte.

Applications for the next group of candidates for the permanent diaconate will be accepted from September 2000 through January 2001, for the class beginning in January 2002. Interested applicants can write to the Office of the Permanent Diaconate, 1123 South Church Street, Charlotte, NC 28203-4003, for an application form. t The permanent diaconate is one of 35 ministries and programs receiving funds from the annual Diocesan Support Appeal.

The Catholic News & Herald 5

DSA

And two shall live as gaged Encounter, a weekend program devoted to marriage prep. And, a third option is available: a one-day program provided and administered by the Diocese of Charlotte’s Catholic Social Services.

The CSS prog ram was developed in response to requests for a one-day program.

“Catholic Social Services wanted to offer a program to augment what Engaged Encounter already did,” says Gerry Carter, CSS director of special ministries.

“This one-day program,” says Carter, “is one piece of the larger pie.

It’s not that a couple just shows up at this program and then gets married.”

Concurrently, they are meeting with their pastor or deacon. This is formal-

ized instruction, but does not negate the fact that there’s a whole process within the parish. “We’re adding to what is already going on in the parishes,” he says.

How does the CSS program work? A pastor can suggest the couple attend the one-day program, if the parish does not conduct its own marriage prep. If opting for the one-day preparation, a couple can expect a program broken down into sessions. Following an introductory session, the day continues with instruction on Natural Family Planning. NFP is an element of instruction required by the diocese.

The CSS program begins with the administration of FOCCUS — a premarriage inventory of issues affecting

Around the Diocese Ancient Order of Hibernians divisions devote efforts, funds to various causes CHARLOTTE — The Ancient Order of Hibernians and Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians of Charlotte recently devoted time, talent and treasure to several causes in the Charlotte metro area. Division 1 of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians recently gathered at Room at the Inn, an independent Catholic home for unwed mothers, to beautify a prayer grotto dedicated to the Blessed Mother.

The division members planted pansies, weeded the grotto, and also replenished the children’s sandbox. In addition, the men’s and ladies’ Order of Ancient Hibernians gathered for a charity fundraiser, complete with Irish dancing, music and a buffet dinner. A handmade statue of St. Patrick was raffled during the event.

Sacred Heart School raises funds for AHA SALISBURY — More than 100 students in kindergarten through fifth grade at Sacred Heart School jump-

Courtesy photo

The Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians recently beautified a prayer grotto at Room at the Inn. roped for the American Heart Association Dec. 10, raising over $2,000 in the process. The fund-raiser helped to give moneys to potentially lifesaving research into heart and blood vessel diseases. The effort also supports the development of educational materials.

Student Alex Freeze raised the most

the pending nuptials, an assessment of how an engaged couple looks at issues of money, family life and a myriad of issue.

“We want to raise issues,” says Carter. “We want to get couples talking about critical issues, and being open to understanding what the sacrament of matrimony is all about.”

“This is about your heart, your mind, and willingness to understand what the vow is all about,” says Carter.

For more information on Marriage Preparation provided through Catholic Social Services, call Marlo Wallace, (704) 370-3228. t Contact Editor Joann Keane by calling (704) 370-3336 or e-mail jskeane@ charlottediocese.org.

Catholic Social Services Special Ministries are among the 35 programs and ministries receiving DSA funds.

money, at $128. The funds were raised through sponsorships. The school’s physical education teacher, Barbara Caldwell, coordinated the event.

Annual Catholic Camporee for Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts ALBEMARLE — The theme for the annual Catholic Camporee XXV, being held this year April 7, 8 and 9, is “The Great Jubilee/ Holy Year.”

Many of this year’s camp activities will focus on the Jubilee/Holy Year and the Catholic faith, as well as, Scout Craft. The Camporee will be held at Camp Barnhardt on the western shore of Badin Lake, near Albemarle, N.C. Awards for the winners of the Scout competition will be distributed after the 10 a.m. Mass on Sunday. All Catholic Scout troops, Cub packs, individual scouts or units led by Catholics are encouraged to attend this Camporee. It is a fun-filled and rewarding weekend for Cubs and Scouts. The Camporee staff will provide lunch on Saturday. All Scouts are encouraged to make plans now to attend. For more information, contact Joe Vari at (704) 846-5155.

6 The Catholic News & Herald State of the Union seat gives cardinal glimpse behind the speech WASHINGTON (CNS) — When Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago heard the State of the Union address Jan. 27, he got to see firsthand how the members of Congress responded to President Clinton’s legislative proposals. He was particularly interested in how Clinton’s proposals for family health care, a minimum wage increase, education programs and foreign debt relief will play out, Cardinal George said. But he also was intrigued by the theatrics involved on all sides in the election-year speech by an outgoing president. As the guest of House Speaker Dennis Hastert, R-Ill., Cardinal George sat with Hastert’s wife and other guests in the House gallery as Clinton addressed the joint session of Congress.

Pope inaugurates controversial parking complex near Vatican VATICAN CITY (CNS) — After lengthy delays and much public debate, Pope John Paul II inaugurated one of the jubilee year’s most controversial projects, a five-story underground parking lot on a historic hillside next to the Vatican. At a ceremony attended

by Vatican and Rome officials, the pope blessed the ultramodern facility Jan. 31 and said it would make it easier for pilgrims to reach St. Peter’s Basilica while easing traffic and parking pressure on area residents. Built on Vatican property, its cost of approximately $44 million was split by the Vatican and Italy. The project was designed as a symbol of Vatican-Italian cooperation

People in the Pope plans to canonize Blessed Katharine Drexel VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope John Paul II plans to canonize Blessed Katharine Drexel, the U.S. heiress who dedicated her life to defending and educating African-Americans and Native Americans. During a Jan. 27 meeting with the Congregation for Sainthood Causes, the pope published a decree recognizing as a miracle the 1994 healing, following prayers to Blessed Katharine, of a U.S. toddler born deaf.

The Vatican did not announce a date for the canonization ceremony, but people familiar with Pope John Paul’s Holy Year calendar said Blessed Katharine probably would be declared a saint during an Oct. 1 Mass at the Vatican.

CNS file photo

for the jubilee year. But public reaction soured when archeological ruins — including frescoed walls from an early Roman villa — were found during construction of an access ramp on Rome’s Janiculum Hill.

Maryknoller campaigns in Rome to close School of the Americas ROME (CNS) — Maryknoll Father Roy Bourgeois brought his campaign to close the U.S. Army School of the Americas to Rome in late January.

“The school is a Cold War dinosaur, a relic,” which helps the military keep a

firm grip on power throughout Central and South America, the priest said. The school, known as the SOA and based at Fort Benning, Ga., since 1984, was founded in Panama in 1946.

It has trained some 60,000 military officers from Latin America and the Caribbean. During a week-long visit to Rome, Father Bourgeois tried to enlist the help of the world’s religious orders in closing the school, whose graduates have included officers accused of assassinations and human rights abuses.

Rabbi: Jerusalem visit shows

February 4, 2000

approval of Israeli sovereignty JERUSALEM (CNS) — One of Israel’s two chief rabbis said a papal meeting with Jewish leaders at Jerusalem’s Western Wall would indicate a recognition of Israeli sovereignty over all of Jerusalem. But a Jerusalem bishop said Pope John Paul II’s March visit to the Holy Land is a pastoral one and should not be seen as supporting one political position over another. Chief Ashkenazi Rabbi Yisrael Meir Lau told Israeli radio he welcomed the idea of meeting the pope at the Western Wall, which stands in East Jerusalem. The Vatican does not recognize Israel’s sovereignty over East Jerusalem, an area Israel captured from Jordan during the 1967 Middle East War. Nun hosting Cuban boy’s meeting worked with immigrants MIAMI (CNS) — When the Justice Department called on Dominican Sister Jeanne O’Laughlin to host a meeting in Miami between 6-year-old Elian Gonzalez and his Cuban grandmothers, it picked a woman with a long history of handling delicate immigration problems. The U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service Jan. 25 got U.S. relatives of the boy to agree to let him meet with his grandmothers from Cuba on a neutral site, the home of the 70-year-old Catholic nun. Sister O’Laughlin is in her 19th year as president of Barry University.

Pope clears way for Pope John XXIII’s beatification The nun, who is now based in Naples, told Italian media that she was healed instantaneously.

Archbishop Jose Saraiva Martins, prefect of the Congregation for Sainthood Causes, told Pope John Paul it was fitting to publish the decree in Pope John’s case on the heels of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.

It was Pope John who, in 1960, created the Vatican’s office for promoting Christian unity, the archbishop said.

“During his missions in Bulgaria and Turkey” as a Vatican diplomat, the future pope’s “personal contact with so many brothers and sisters not in full communion with the Catholic Church generated in him a categorical commitment to recovering the unity lost over the centuries,” Archbishop Saraiva

Martins said.

Born in Sotto il Monte in 1881, Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli was one of 13 children. He entered the minor seminary at the age of 11 and was sent to Rome to study at the age of 19.

He was ordained to the priesthood in 1904 and after several years as secretary to the bishop of Bergamo, he was called to the Vatican. In 1925 he began serving as a Vatican diplomat, first being posted to Bulgaria, then to Greece and Turkey and, finally, to France. He was named a cardinal and patriarch of Venice in 1953. t

By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope John Paul II, recognizing as miraculous a healing of an Italian nun, cleared the way for the beatification of Pope John XXIII. Sister Caterina Capitani, a member of the Daughters of Charity, attended the Jan. 27 Vatican session at which the pope recognized her healing as a miracle attributed to the intervention of Pope John.

The decree clears the way for the

beatification of Pope John, who served as pontiff from 1958 to 1963. Although the Vatican has not announced a date for the ceremony, officials have said Sept. 3 is the most likely date.

Another miracle occurring after the beatification would be needed before Pope John could be canonized.

Sister Capitani was dying from complications following stomach surgery in 1966 when she prayed to Pope John to help save her. She said she saw the pope smiling and heard him say, “Be calm, I am here.”

February 4, 2000

In the

The Catholic News & Herald 7

Newspaper series on priests with AIDS stirs

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (CNS) — A three-day series on Catholic priests with AIDS by The Kansas City Star has sparked wide controversy and criticism.

The series, begun Jan. 30, ended Feb. 1 with a long story revealing that AIDS was the cause of death last year of a prominent local Jesuit, Father Thom Savage, president of Rockhurst College in Kansas City.

The Catholic Key, Kansas City-St. Joseph diocesan newspaper, said that was “a fact known only to Father Savage’s family until the Star report.”

Priests contacted by The Catholic Key questioned several aspects of the series, which said that priests’ deaths from AIDS are at least four times the rate of the general populace.

The series called into question “church doctrine” on homosexuality, AIDS and the celibate priesthood. In a sidebar commentary on the series, Star editor and vice president Mark Zieman described AIDS in the priesthood as “a question that strikes straight at the heart of church doctrine.”

“He’s just dead wrong about that,” said Father Paul Turner, pastor of St. John Francis Regis Parish in Kansas City. “The central doctrines are that Jesus is the Son of God, that Jesus is present in the Eucharist and so on.

These are the things we hold most dear in our church. I hope the media are aware of that.”

Jesuit Father Thomas Reese, editor of America magazine in New York, said the reference to priests having AIDS at four times the rate of the general population — a figure widely picked up by wire services and other media — “is skewed” since priests are all adult males.

According to figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, the incidence of AIDS among adult males is roughly five times that among adult women.

Father Reese said the series used the comparison with the general populace four times and only once compared priests’ deaths from AIDS with those of other adult males.

On the whole, however, Father

church or anybody else knew how to deal with those questions at that time.”

Father Cisetti said that prospective candidates for the seminary undergo an extensive application process that includes counseling on celibacy and sexuality. “The application process and the seminary formation process (on those issues) is much more sophisticated than it was in the past,” he said.

Father Turner said the Star missed the mark when it attempted to explain celibacy as a doctrine of the church.

“Celibacy is certainly a spiritual discipline that we accept and embrace in our church. But it is not what I would call a central doctrine,” he said.

“The Catholic Church accepts celibacy for its priests because it has been a time-tested spiritual discipline that has proved useful for priests in their ministry as a way that they can hold society to a higher standard, to lift people up to think beyond what this world has to offer and to the promises of the next world.

“That element,” he added, “is important to an understanding of celibacy and it is evaded in the article.”

Benedictine Father Benedict Neenan, president/rector of Conception Seminary College in Conception, about 90 miles north of Kansas City, took issue with the series’ repeated characterizations of seminaries as places that ignore sex education.

He said sexuality and celibacy are extensively explored as part of character formation.

“What seminarians learn about integrating sex into their character and identity is far more advanced than is available elsewhere on the college level, and certainly more advanced than in the general population,” he said. “What society does is to expose people to sexual activity and give them permission to explore.”

He said the comments on inadequate seminary sex education in the Star “focused on the ’60s and came from people who are practicing homosexuals.”

“We’ve come a long way from the 1960s,” he said. “What was taught and not taught about sexuality then was

no different in the seminaries than in regular colleges.”

Msgr. Francis J. Maniscalco, secretary for communications of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops, said, “The seminary I went to made sure priests knew the facts of life.”

He said when he was in philosophy and theology studies in 1965-71, “the seminarians themselves wanted to discuss priesthood and sexuality. ...

In that era so many priests were leaving to get married, you couldn’t avoid” those issues.

Msgr. Maniscalco called the series “regrettable,” saying its extensive coverage of “a concern with a small segment of priests” turned it into “a judgment on priests in general” and a questioning of priestly celibacy.

He suggested that there would have been no such series without the element of interest in whether priests sin — if AIDS were not transmitted primarily by sexual activity and priests did not promise to live celibate lives.

“It’s the ‘Elmer Gantry’ syndrome — when the preacher sins, it’s a bigger story,” he said.

“We are sinners, but that does not diminish the value of the commitment made — and lived — by many priests,” he said. “It seems to me the vast majority of priests are trying to live out faithfully” their promise of celibacy.

He also questioned the use of comparisons of priests’ deaths from AIDS with those in the general population, saying a comparison with other unmarried adult males would provide a more valid statistical basis. He also saw a “spin” factor in comparing deaths of priests from AIDS over a period of years with the current number of priests, rather than the much larger figure of the total number of priests that there were in that time period.

While the Star did give “some nuancing” to some of its comparisons, he said, other news agencies picked up “only the bare bones.”

“Once it takes flight, the nuances get lost. That’s what happens when a story goes national,” he said. t

Contributing to this story were Loretta Shea Kline, Albert de Zutter and Kevin Kelly in Kansas City and Jerry Filteau in Washington.

Reese said the treatment of statistics in the series seemed “pretty evenhanded.”

Father Patrick Rush, Kansas CitySt. Joseph diocesan vicar general, deplored the “inferential reporting” in the series.

In a statement Jan. 29, he said, “Quite simply, HIV-AIDS affects us all and poses a health crisis nationally and internationally.

“With 47,000 Catholic priests in America, the number of HIV-AIDS deaths of ordained clergy pale in comparison to the tidal wave in our country and throughout the world,” he added.

“Selecting and publicizing a few facts about a few priests casts a shadow on the ministry of all Catholic priests.”

Ned McGrath, Detroit archdiocesan communications director, seconded Father Rush’s remarks and said news reports about the series appearing in Michigan could leave the mistaken impression “that the Catholic Church has been ‘quiet’ or ‘behind the times’ on the issue.”

He cited numerous local and national church initiatives to address AIDS since the 1980s, including the U.S. bishops’ 1987 statement on a Gospel response to the AIDS crisis.

In Kansas City, Father Norman Rotert, former vicar general and now pastor of Visitation Parish, described the series as “sensationalized.” “‘It appears that the Star is going for a journalistic award,” he said. “If they are using the priesthood to win an award, then I resent it very much.

There isn’t any question that it calls the character of every priest into question and invites the general public to call the character of priests into question.”

Father Joseph Cisetti, associate director of vocations, and Father Don Farnan, pastor of St. Louis Parish and vocations director from 1991 to 1997, took issue with the series’ contention that seminarians receive inadequate training and counseling on sexuality.

Father Farnan, who was ordained in 1987, said the AIDS issue was new when he was a seminarian, but it was openly discussed.

“When I first heard about AIDS I was in the seminary,” he said. “At that time, the whole thing was new. People were asking questions such as, ‘Should we drink from the same cup?’ — practical things like that. I don’t think the

8 The Catholic News & Herald

Faith

February 4, 2000

The leaven that is powerfully

By Lawrence S. Cunningham Catholic News Service The seemingly magical power of a small amount of leaven to change a great mass of dough provided the New Testament writers with a ready image.

Leaven was a negative image both in Mark (8:15, casting out the leaven of Pharisees) and in Paul (1 Corinthians 5:6-8, casting out the old leaven for the new).

Leaven also was used both in the synoptic writers (Matthew 13:13) and Paul (Galatians 5:9) to indicate the Gospel’s power to “leaven” a greater whole.

The church’s preaching tradition adopted leaven as an image for the Gospel’s transformative power.

Of course, there is a temptation to trivialize this powerful image, as if it were an abstract slogan for letting one’s “little light shine,” whereas leaven in the Old Testament was thought of as a living thing full of energy and transforming power.

The issue is how a Christian or a small Christian community becomes leaven for the larger culture.

We might answer by thinking of the Christian life in terms of an everwidening circle. The circle is tightest in what we might call our intimate community of family, friends and local neighborhood. The leavening process begins there when individuals act to advance God’s reign in small concrete ways: by reconciling enemies, caring for the needy, nourishing the life of prayer, nourishing ourselves on the Word of God. We might adopt as our spiritual strategy the rallying cry of the ecological movement: “Act locally but think globally.” The motto means simply this: If we fight pollution in our immediate neighborhood we are inevitably led to ask the larger questions about why pollution exists at all, who contributes to it and so on.

“Act locally but think globally” is, in religious terms, as good a description of true catholicity as one could imagine. Every local church is fully Catholic when the full creed is preached, the sacraments are administered fully and when the local bishop is in union with all other bishops and the bishop of Rome. To be Catholic is to be, at the same time, local and universal.

The conclusion drawn from this is that every small act of being more

Christian, of loving God and neighbor or serving our own circle, but with a mind to the larger church, advances the kingdom, builds the church.

That is what St. Paul had in mind when he compared believers to a body in which each part acts in harmony with the others (1 Corinthians 12) or a body whose head is Christ (Ephesians 1).

In the concrete, to be leaven in the mass is to take seriously our call to be disciples of Christ in the real circumstances in which we find ourselves. To be spouses, parents, family members and so on after the manner of Christ.

Some people, by God’s call, take on universal tasks as they advance the reign of God; most of us find ourselves in more circumscribed circumstances.

But it doesn’t matter where; all disciples of Jesus must cling to the conviction that our response to Christ’s call in the here and CNS photo by W.P. Wittman Limited now is, in fact, a leavening of the world in which we find our“The issue is how a ... Christian community becomes leaven selves. for the larger culture,” writes theology professor Lawrence S. The great saints always have been passionately concerned with the task Cunningham. “The leavening process begins ... when individuals right at hand, with little or no notion act to advance God’s reign in small concrete ways: by reconciling of how their fidelity would nourish the larger church. enemies, caring for the needy, nourishing the life of prayer, How could a Therese of Lisieux, nourishing ourselves on the Word of God.” an obscure French nun who died in a provincial 19th-century cloister person’s soul. after she barely reached her majority, “New Seeds of Contemplation,” TrapThe leaven Jesus speaks of in Matbecome a worldwide figure after her pist Father Thomas Merton may have thew must always be kept in tension death? What she did know was that the said it most succinctly: with that leaven of which Jesus says way of perfection for her was to do the “Keep your eyes clean and your sternly, “Beware!” ordinary in an extraordinary fashion. ears quiet and your mind serene.

That admonition does not mean In time, that lesson captured the Breathe God’s air. Work, if you can, people must seal themselves off from Catholic world’s attention to such an under God’s sky.” the messiness of the world. It does mean extent that Pope John Paul II would If we follow that brief injunction, that there is a way in which we should name her to the rarest of honors, a we become the leaven that works upon situate ourselves within the real world doctor of the church. the whole. Such an act of faith could in which we live.

If a small application of leaven can have consequences far beyond what we Every authentic conversion cartransform the larger mass for the good can imagine. t ries, simultaneously, an aversion — a of the Kingdom of God, the reverse is turning to and a turning from; a realso true. It only takes a small infection Cunningham is a professor of theolsounding yes and an emphatic no. In of the evils of this world to take over a ogy at the University of Notre Dame.

Faith in the Marketplace

How can someone like you contribute in specifically Christian ways to building up your world?

“I think the Scriptures and the church are clear in asking us to take care of the needy.... As long as we address the needs of those less fortunate, we are doing what we need to do.” — Moe Wosepka, Helena, Mont.

“We need to give (youth and young adults) ways that let them express their faith. Anyone looking to help the church must look to helping these young people.” — Jeannie Weber, LaCrosse, Wis. “As a lay high school youth director, I can do this by being a role model for the high school young people I work with, ... living out the faith that I profess to them each week in our small group meetings.” — Dave Geist, Dodge City, Kan. “Assisting the poor to assist themselves. I think that by giving to them in education and work skills, I can help many people who in turn can then help others.” — Madeleine Blankenship, Charleston, W. Va.

Lend Us Your Voice: An upcoming edition asks:

What goal are you setting this Lent — and why?

If you would like to respond for possible publication, please write: Faith Alive!

3211 Fourth St. N.E., Washington, D.C. 20017-1100.

February 4, 2000

Transforming the ordinary into something lifegiving

By Mary Jo Pedersen Catholic News Service A cake of fresh yeast is yucky tan in color and smells awful! When you mix it with warm water, it forms a distasteful looking paste. But oh, what that yeast does to a bowl of flour, salt and a little oil!

My grandmother lived next door, and she baked bread regularly when I was growing up. I remember standing on a chair at her kitchen table “helping” her mix the brown smelly yeast solution into a large bowl of flour.

This was a messy ordeal. I wouldn’t touch the gooey mix until she had it mixed together and was kneading it.

After the first kneading, the bread “rested” atop the warm oven. I remember tucking it under a thick towel to keep it warm and undisturbed.

A hot oven would finish the process, with the awful smell of yeast giving way to the unforgettable fragrance of fresh baked bread!

I never hear the parable of the yeast in Matthew’s Gospel without thinking of these miraculous transformations in Grandma’s kitchen.

As families hear the jubileeyear invitation to become leaven for the world, they might take comfort in knowing that the messy but transforming work of leaven already is occurring in most homes every day.

The family is the first place we learn to be leaven for the world. You can see it in the patient efforts of parents teaching a 2-year-old to share his toys or an aging husband feeding an invalid wife.

Children learn how to be yeast for others by watching their parents work hard for their benefit and spend time with them when they have homework or are sick. Children learn to be yeast by acting responsibly and respectfully toward each other.

Something messy and unjust can be transformed into something beautiful and life-giving by these ordinary actions.

There are plenty of opportunities for becoming leaven in neighborhoods and parishes. Neighbors watch out for each other’s mail when someone is traveling, take meals to each other when there is sickness or a crisis; our parish stocks pantry in the city that serves immigrant families and has an organized outreach to families in need.

In baking bread, yeast comprises only 2 percent of the dough’s weight.

It doesn’t take much to do a lot!

For most folks, leavening happens in ordinary ways in messy situations.

It occurs quietly, by the power of the Holy Spirit, when people respond to Christ’s invitation to transform the ordinary into something life-giving. t Pedersen is coordinator of the Leadership in Family Life Training Program for the Archdiocese of Omaha, Neb.

The Catholic News & Herald 9

Faith

Images that penetrate the

By Father Eugene LaVerdiere, SSS Catholic News Service Some images transform the world.

I think of a photo depicting an execution in a Vietnamese village. As I remember it, a soldier was shooting a kneeling man point blank in the head.

The photo bridged the distance between America and Southeast Asia.

It brought the war to every town and neighborhood.

Everyone could identify personally with the kneeling man as his head recoiled. Around the world, the photo galvanized people of good will against war itself. As a leaven, the photo image penetrated our conscience, proclaiming: “War is not human!”

Some images are like leaven, penetrating culture, as yeast permeates dough.

At the end of World War II, my dad took me to see a newsreel on the opening of the Nazi concentration camps. The camera followed the first Allied soldiers into the camps.

The images of the piles of dis-

work is a symbol of forgiveness and carded bodies and the emaciated, naked salvation. men and women are still with me. At The crucifix evokes Jesus’ dying the time I was only 8. words, “Father, forgive them, they Like a leaven, these images penknow not what they do” (Lk 23:34). etrated every part of my being. I still The crucifix also evokes the words of ask, “How could human beings do this the “good” criminal: “Jeto a human being?” sus, remember me when Christian images and Christian you come into your kingsymbols can also transimages dom” (Lk 23:42). Everyform the world. one remembers Jesus’ Think of crowded and symbols response, “I say to you, churches on Ash Wednescan transform the today you will be with me day. We live in a cosmetic, in paradise” (Lk 23:43). escapist culture. Usually, world.

The image of the we do not face our mortalinfant Jesus lying in a ity. But on Ash Wednesmanger also inspired artday, everyone wants to ists from the beginning. be signed on the forehead Usually, a manger is a place for cattle with ashes. feed. But Mary placed the Son of God The ashes on our foreheads are a in a manger because there was no place countercultural sign, proclaiming to for them in the city of David. everyone who can see that we are huLying in a manger, Jesus was a man and mortal, reminding everyone homeless child. And in his ministry that we were formed from dust and Jesus was homeless. We read in the will return to dust.

Gospel, “Foxes have dens and birds The New Testament images of Jeof the sky have nests, but the Son of sus nailed on the cross inspired artists God has nowhere to rest his head” (Lk and sculptors for 2,000 years. Their 9:58).

Here are two points to reflect upon: —From the beginning, the church has been a promoter — a builder — of human culture. Promoting artists and writers, the church has been a friend of culture. Think of the Gospels.

Think of the earliest art in the Romans’ catacombs.

—At the same time, the church called every culture to repent and believe in the Gospel, inspiring artists with the New Testament images of Jesus on the cross or lying in a manger.

As such, we can describe the church as countercultural.

In each case, the church calls every one of us to be a genuine human being.

Proclaiming the Gospel with images, the church is calling every culture to be a genuine human culture.

Some images can transform the world.

The church knows that. t CNS photo by W.P. Wittman Limited

“When you mix (yeast) with warm water it forms a distasteful looking paste. But oh what that yeast does to a bowl of flour, salt and a little oil!” says Mary Jo Pedersen in her article on transforming the ordinary into something life-giving.

Food for Thought

T

he parable of the leaven in Chapter 13 of Matthew’s Gospel is brief — so brief that it might be overlooked or underestimated. It goes like this: “He spoke to them another parable. ‘The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed with three measures of wheat flour until the whole batch was leavened.”

What is like yeast? The kingdom of heaven.

Parables are thought-provoking.

This one makes people think about

God’s kingdom and how it expands through a great amount of flour (“three measures”). The kingdom grows.

The parable often is thought-provoking because it prompts Christians to reflect upon themselves as “yeast” meant to work within the world, furthering the kingdom’s growth. But how?

Are we meant to make the world a better place? And what if it doesn’t seem to get better, at least not in some important ways?

What is the “measure” of our success as “yeast”?

Father LaVerdiere, a Blessed Sacrament priest, is a Scripture scholar and senior editor of Emmanuel magazine.

The parable, depicting God’s kingdom as a powerful, expansive presence, can give people hope. And hope is not an idle virtue. We have the option to leaven hope (and faith, and love) into the world around us.

David Gibson Editor, Faith Alive!

1 0 The Catholic News & Herald

Catholic Bestsellers for February Here is the Catholic Bestsellers List for February, according to the Catholic Book Publishers Association.

Hardcover 1. “She Said Yes.” Misty Bernall (Plough Publishing) 2. “Lamb’s Supper.” Scott Hahn (Doubleday) 3. “Witness to Hope.” George Weigel (HarperCollins) 4. “Life of the Beloved.” Henri J.M. Nouwen (Crossroad) 5. “Imitation of Christ.” Thomas a Kempis (Catholic Book Publishing) 6. “My People’s Prayer Book” Vol. 3. Lawrence Hoffman (Jewish Lights) 7. “Lives of the Saints” Vol. 1. Hugo Hoever (Catholic Book Publishing) 8. “Shared Dreams.” Marc Schneier (Jewish Lights) 9. “Here and Now.” Henri J.M. Nouwen (Crossroad) 10. “Eyes of the Heart.” Frederick Buechner (HarperCollins) Paperback 1. “Catechism of the Catholic Church.” (Doubleday) 2. “Workbook for Lectors & Gospel Readers” (RNAB translation — Year 2000). Susan E. Myers (Liturgy Training Publications) 3. “At Home With the Word 2000.” Martin F. Connell (Liturgy Training) 4. “In the Name of Jesus.” Henri J.M. Nouwen (Crossroad) 5. “Catholic Book of Prayers.” M. Fitzgerald (Catholic Book Publishing) 6. “Return of the Prodigal Son.” Henri J.M. Nouwen (Doubleday) 7. “Mission 2000 Cycle B.” Mark Link (Thomas More) 8. “Surprised by Truth.” Patrick Madrid (CCC of America) 9. “Wounded Healer.” Henri J.M. Nouwen (Doubleday) 10. “Your Sorrow Is My Sorrow.” Joyce Rupp (Crossroad) Children and Young People 1. “Coloring Book of Saints.” Karen Cavanagh (Regina Press) 2. “Precious Moments Remembrance of My Baptism.” Girl’s edition (Regina Press) 3. “My Mass Book.” Karen Cavanagh (Regina Press) 4. “New Catholic Picture Bible.” (Catholic Book Publishing) 5. “Picture Book of Saints.” Lawrence Lovasik (Catholic Book Publishing) 6. “The Life of Jesus.” Victor Hoagland (Regina Press) 7. “The Rosary.” Victor Hoagland (Regina Press) 8. “Can You Find Jesus?” Gallery & Harlow (St. Anthony Messenger Press) 9. “What Is God’s Name?” Sandy Eisenberg Sasso (SkyLight Paths Publishing) 10. “Catholic Children’s Bible.” Mary Theola (Regina Press) Spanish-language 1. “Manual Para Proclamadores 2000.” Marina A. Herrera (Liturgy Training) 2. “Palabra de Dios 2000.” Alejandro von Rechnitz Gonzalez (Liturgy Training) 3. “Catecismo de la Iglesia Catolica.” (Doubleday) 4. “La Oruga Que Fue a Misa.” Irene Hooker (Our Sunday Visitor) 5. “Palabras y Cantos de Jesus.” Activity Book. Walker & Freeburg (Oregon Catholic Press) 6. “Catecismo Illustrado.” A. Lodders (Catholic Book Publishing) 7. “Palabras y Cantos de Jesus.” Walker & Freeburg (Oregon Catholic Press) 8. “Don y Promesa.” (Oregon Catholic Press) 9. “El Santo Rosario.” Lawrence Lovasik (Catholic Book Publishing) 10. “Mi Primo Libro.” Lawrence Lovasik (Catholic Book Publishing)

February 4, 2000

Read-

Word to Life February 6, Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle B Readings: 1) Job 7:1-4, 6-7 Psalm 147:1-6 2) 1 Corinthians 9:16-19, 22-23 3) Gospel: Mark 1:29-39

By Jeff Hensley Catholic News Service I spoke today with my friend who suffers with chronic pain. I’m sure from the stories he has told me across the past several years that his pain and stress would allow him to identify strongly with Job and all of his trials.

“I have been assigned months of misery, and troubled nights have been told off for me,” Job says in today’s readings. I’m sure my friend has had occasion to pray with Job’s words.

Today, though, not a word was said of his pain, though I am sure it is ever present with him. Instead, he spoke of one of his chief passions, making the Mass available for shut-

“Yet preaching the gospel is not the subject of a boast; I am under compulsion and have no choice. I am ruined if I do not preach it!”

— 1 Corinthians 9:16

ins. He has begun videotaping the Mass for people who don’t receive the TV stations that carry it. He then makes these tapes available to them.

It is one of many ways that my telephone friend seeks to bring the good news to others.

Like Jesus in the reading from Mark for this week, he has a sense of mission that keeps him moving in response to the needs of others. When Jesus arises early in the morning to spend time in prayer, the passage from Mark tells us, it is Simon and his companions who search around for him. When they find him, they tell Jesus, “Everybody is looking for you!”

And Jesus, ignoring what sounds like a concerned upbraiding, replies, “Let us move on to the neighboring villages so that I may proclaim the good news there also. That is what I have come to do.”

And so it is with my friend. His mind is fixed on that next thing he can do to help put others in touch with the love of God; what is the next thing he can do to proclaim the good news that God loves us and has redeemed us.

I want to be more like him.

Questions: Is your mind focused on your problems, or on what you can do to help others know the love of God? Is there one small thing you can do for others that could help you change your focus?

Weekly Scripture Readings for the week of Feb. 6 - 12, 2000 Sunday (Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time), Job 7:1-4, 6-7, 1 Corinthians 9:1619, 22-23, Mark 1:29-39; Monday, 1 Kings 8:1-7, 9-13, Mark 6:53-56; Tuesday (St. Jerome Emiliani), 1 Kings 8:22-23, 27-30, Mark 7:1-13; Wednesday, 1 Kings 10:1-10, Mark 7:14-23; Thursday (St. Scholastica), 1 Kings 11:4-13, Mark 7:24-30; Friday (Our Lady of Lourdes), 1 Kings 11:29-32; 12:19, Mark 7:31-37; Saturday, 1 Kings 12:26-32; 13:33-34, Mark 8:1-10

February 4, 2000

Movie Review

The Catholic News & Herald 11

Entertain-

“Grizzly Falls” is tame but wholesome

By Gerri Pare Catholic News Service NEW YORK (CNS) — Enraged that her cubs have been taken, a grizzly bear kidnaps a boy from his campground in the tame adventure tale, “Grizzly Falls” (Providence).

The outdoorsy story is framed and narrated by crusty old Harry (Richard Harris) telling his grandchildren about being snatched by a fearsome grizzly many years earlier.

Young Harry (Daniel Clark) had just lost his mom to consumption while dad (Bryan Brown) was on one of his many expeditions.

Father and son then head for the Canadian Rockies where dad intends to be the first to capture a grizzly bear alive, thanks to a newfangled anesthetic dart. Hiring Indian tracker Joshua (Tom Jackson) and a few less reputable hunters, the group encounters a grizzly and her two cubs but the dart doesn’t take down the massive beast, who escapes. The cubs are caged and taken back to camp, but before dawn mama bear returns. Unable to free her

“Grizzly Falls” Due to brief violence and mild profanity, the U.S. Catholic Conference classification is A—II — adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG — parental guidance suggested. little ones, she drags off Harry who has fainted at sight of the giant roaring over him.

And so begins the bear-and-boy odyssey as Harry sharpens his survival skills after realizing his abductor means him no harm. Although hampered by a broken arm, his dad and Joshua attempt to follow their trail through the wilderness. This gives dad a chance to express to Joshua his regrets at not being around when his wife needed him and his resolve to make a fresh start with his neglected son if he can be rescued.

Harry, meanwhile has been carrying on one-way conversations as well with his substitute-mother figure who

CNS photo from Providence Entertainment

Ryan Brown (left) and Daniel Clark star in the adventure film “Grizzly Falls.” seems to have a precise destination in mind.

As directed by Stewart Raffill, the situations are quite contrived, and

viewers are expected to accept that the bear takes the boy hostage in tit-for-tat reprisal. The impressive creature often seems the brightest of the bunch, and it’s an easy guess where everything’s headed. Plumping up the plot, one of the hunters (Oliver Tobias) so turns on father and son he may as well have been a leftover mustachioed villain from silent-film days.

Nor are possibilities for actionadventure in the wild taken full advantage of, such as scenes with a mountain lion and menacing wolves seem to end too abruptly.

Nonetheless, the scenery is glorious, the youngster appealing and the old-fashioned treatment with its uplifting sentiments do not grate. Overall it is a tame but wholesome adventure. t Pare is director of the U.S. Catholic Conference Office for Film and Broadcasting.

TV Review

Compelling documentary tells story of civil rights movement through eyes of

By Anne Navarro Catholic News Service NEW YORK (CNS) — The history of the civil rights movement is told through the eyes of its martyrs in the compelling documentary “Civil Rights Martyrs: Free at Last,” airing Thursday, Feb. 10, 9-11 p.m. EST on cable’s Learning Channel.

In retelling the stories of their lives and the circumstances of their deaths, “Civil Rights Martyrs” illustrates how each martyr’s death pushed the civil rights movement forward.

The documentary, written and produced by Martin Kent, brings out at times the innocence and always the courage these individuals had in standing up for equality, liberty and justice for all.

The viewer learns the stories of these unsung heroes through inter-

views with surviving relatives and friends, often explicit dramatizations, and historical footage and photographs. One example is Emmett Till, who was killed because of a supposed comment he made to a white woman.

His mother’s controversial decision to have an open casket showing the brutality her son endured received national attention.

It is chilling to hear Vernon Dahmer’s widow discuss how the couple would take turns sleeping at night so they could protect themselves and their family against those who wanted them dead. More horrifying still are the deaths of four innocent young girls trapped in the basement of the 16th Street Baptist Church as Ku Klux Klan members bombed it.

But the victims were not limited to African-Americans. The documentary

“Civil Rights Martyrs: Free at Last” Feb. 10, 9-11 p.m.

Learning Channel also highlights the murders of two Jewish men, a Christian preacher and a white woman who gave their lives in the fight for a better America.

A common thread throughout the documentary is that most of the killers were set free despite overwhelming evidence. Some of them were brought to trial not for murder, but for violating the Civil Rights Act. And for many of the survivors, justice would not be served for years to come.

It seems inconceivable that men could have such hatred in their hearts to actually perpetrate these acts of cruelty. As the Rev. Jesse Jackson says in the documentary, “It was a time of

war.”

Of particular note is the thoughtful commentary made by John Lewis, who lived through these historical times and continues to be a civil rights activist.

In light of the recent controversy over the Confederate flag, “Civil Rights Martyrs: Free at Last” presents a time in American history that left both scars and triumphs which still resonates today. This would be a good choice for parents and adolescents to view together and discuss. t Navarro is on the staff of the U.S. Catholic Conference Office for Film and Broadcasting.

1 2 The Catholic News & Herald

February 4, 2000

Editorials & Col-

The Pope Speaks

POPE JOHN PAUL II

Pope urges respect for nature, reassures Seton Hall visitors

By Benedicta Cipolla Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope John Paul II called for respect for the environment, reminding Christians of the presence of the transcendent in God’s creation.

“Nature becomes a gospel that speaks to us about God,” he said at his Jan. 26 general audience.

After his catechesis, the pope told 14 pilgrims associated with Seton Hall University in South Orange, N.J., that he was praying for students caught in a dormitory fire at the school.

The Jan. 19 fire left three students dead and another 58 injured.

The Seton Hall pilgrims were among 7,000 attendees who packed the Vatican’s Paul VI Audience Hall to listen to the pope’s weekly teaching.

Continuing with the theme of the Blessed Trinity, which was also the focus of his Jan. 19 general audience, the pope said that while the act of creation is most associated with God the Father, all three persons of the Trinity are present in nature.

“The glory of the Trinity — we can say with the Christian tradition — is resplendent in creation,” said the pope.

Quoting from the Old and New Testaments, the pope emphasized the roles of Son and Spirit in the act of creation and called on all people to marvel at the final result.

“Faced with the glory of the Trinity in the creation, mankind must contemplate, sing, rediscover awe,” he said.

Contemplation also signifies listening, said the pope, and the faithful must heed the message that the creation bears.

“Our discovery of God’s transcendent presence in the created world should lead us to take greater care of our natural environment and inspire us to work to establish the harmony which God intended from the beginning,” he said.

The Jewish people understood this fundamental bond between humans and nature, said the pope, referring to their tradition of letting fields lie fallow during jubilee years.

“If nature is not violated or humiliated, it returns as the sister of mankind,” he said.

Pope criticizes relativism, underscores unique role of Christ VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Criticizing the spread of a “relativistic mentality” in some theological circles, Pope John Paul II underscored the unique role of Christ and the church in human salvation. “In recent years a mentality has emerged in theological and ecclesial circles which tends to relativize Christ’s revelation and his unique and universal mediation in the order of salvation,” the pope said Jan. 28 during an audience with participants in the plenary assembly of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.

The same mentality, the pope added, tends “to reformulate the necessity of Christ’s church as a universal sacrament of salvation.”

The stewardship of the DSA I suppose that I should keep a hat rack in my office because my position as Associate Director of Development calls me to wear several different hats throughout the year. The seasonal hat that I am currently wearing is that of promoting the Diocesan Support Appeal. The hat that is most comfortable on my head is that of promoting “Stewardship as a Way of Life” throughout the diocese. There are several other hats, too, and I often find myself wearing all of them at once. It’s my stewardship hat and my DSA hat that seem to fit comfortably on my head at the same time. I see the DSA as one way of responding to Jesus’ call to discipleship — a call carried out through stewardship of time, talent and treasure.

While wearing my DSA hat, I often receive letters and phone calls from parishioners who want to know, “What’s in this appeal for me and my parish?”

I can often point directly to services provided by the Office of Faith Formation for catechists, youth ministers, RCIA teams, and lay ministers. I may mention that their Permanent Deacon receives ongoing formation through the programs offered by the Permanent Diaconate office. The Office of Justice and Peace has offered workshops in each region of the diocese as they work to carry out the challenge of the pastoral, “Of One Mind and Heart.” I might mention the assistance their parish receives from the Hispanic Ministry as they seek to welcome and minister to their Hispanic brothers and sisters. The “50+” group in their parish is eligible for assistance through the Elder Ministry program. I even mention the fact that many people in their parish, unknown to others, might have received help from Catholic Social Services.

However, if I answer that same question wearing my stewardship hat, I might be more inclined to mention giving to the DSA out of gratitude for God’s grace-of-giving because it is a way of giving back to God just a portion of what He has given.

It is a way of being a good steward of God’s gifts.

Hispanic Ministry FATHER VINCENT H. FINNERTY Guest Columnist over 80% of the dioceses with a history of Hispanic Ministry. c) Hispanic ministry staffs have nearly doubled since 1990. d) Hispanic ministry directors are more educated and professional than ever before. e) About 55% of the Hispanic ministry directors say their diocese is providing “a lot” of support for their work.

On the down side... a) Ten or more Hispanic Ministry departments or offices have been dismantled or downgraded since 1990. b) Most Hispanic Ministry offices remains subsumed under another diocesan department and are supervised by that department’s director.

I hope this has been helpful.

DSA 2000 BARBARA ROHRMAN Guest Columnist

Furthermore, contributing to the DSA is a means living the Corporal Works of Mercy. To borrow a phrase from my pastor, “it is a way of serving Jesus incognito.” Jesus simply said, “I was hungry and you fed me. I was in prison and you visited me...mourning and you comforted me.” Giving to the DSA involves reaching out beyond the boundaries of parish or mission and serving the needs of the greater diocesan community.

While wearing my DSA hat over the past five years, I’ve had the privilege of meeting hundreds of people who have been helped by DSA funded ministries. I have cried with those who were struggling and suffering, laughed and rejoiced with those who were celebrating. I every case I knew, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that I was in the presence of Jesus. I knew that my gift to the DSA was going to help Jesus incognito, and I was overwhelmed with gratitude for the opportunity to serve Him, everpresent in our midst.

Barbara Rohrman is Associate Director of Development for the Diocese of Charlotte.

Hispanics and Catholic Church Let us continue with some more facts regarding Hispanic Ministry in the U.S. Catholic Church.

Hispanics, it is well known, comprise an everincreasing share of the U.S. Catholic population. Estimates vary, but it is generally agreed that persons of Hispanic origin comprise between a quarter and a third of those who currently identify themselves as “Catholic.”

In addition, because the size of the Hispanic population is increasing rapidly relative to non-Hispanic groups, it is entirely possible that during the first two decades of this century, Hispanics will surpass Blacks as the nation’s leading minority group and may also surpass Whites as the dominant ethnic group within the Catholic Church.

Among Hispanic Catholics in particular, but increasingly among non-Hispanic Catholics as well, the idea that Hispanics are, in effect, “half the Church” is becoming both a widely accepted (if imprecise) statistical fact as well as a rallying cry for change.

A January 1998 study, commissioned by the Secretariat for Hispanic Affairs of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops, finds the following regarding Hispanic Ministry Offices in all the dioceses of the United States: On the plus side... a) 44 Hispanic Ministry offices have been created or upgraded in the past nine years. Most of the new offices have their own budgets and have access to the Bishop directly or indirectly through an Episcopal vicar or through another high official in the chancery. b) Hispanic ministry budgets have increased in

We welcome your letters and comments

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

February 4, 2000

Editorials & Col-

Light One Candle FATHER THOMAS J. McSWEENEY Guest Columnist a grateful admiration for God’s patience with us.

“Imitate his patience and realize that despite all our weaknesses, He loves and treasures each one of us.”

St. Francis de Sales put it similarly: “Be patient with everyone, but above all with yourself. I mean, do not be disturbed because of your imperfections, and always rise up bravely after a fall.”

Sadly, lots of people confuse patience with weakness, with being a doormat. Hardly. Being patient does not mean putting up with everything without complaint. We often need to speak out. Patience is the strength that lets us speak with courtesy and kindness instead of sarcasm and abuse, even when we are angry.

Here are some techniques for calming down when you are angry: Pray for the strength not to lash out.

Think about something else. Picture your favorite vacation spot. If possible, go out for a little while. Work off tension by taking a brisk walk. And, oh yes, count to 10 — or 100 — before you speak.

Lashing out does nothing to solve problems. It just causes ill will. And the stress can hurt you. Calming down first will help you speak in a more rational, constructive way with whomever made you angry, so you can explain why certain behavior or words upset you, and what you think needs to be done.

St. Teresa of Avila urged: “Let nothing disturb you; let nothing dismay you; all things pass; God never changes. Patience achieves everything. Whoever the United States, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, has about 5.2 million members and is part of the LWF. It makes up roughly two-thirds of the Lutherans in the United States.

The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, however, with about 2.6 million members, is the largest Lutheran group in the world not affiliated with the LWF. The next largest Lutheran Church in the United States, the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod, has approximately 400,000 members, and also is not affiliated with the world federation.

For this reason, neither the Missouri nor Wisconsin synods were directly involved in the dialogue that preceded the document, nor are they participants in the agreement itself.

Miscarriage and funeral rites Q. Three years ago, my first pregnancy ended tragically in a miscarriage at home. My husband and I were devastated and were left trying to decide how to humanely dispose of the body. Our parish priest told us that the Catholic Church makes no provision for miscarried babies.

Why is there no service of any kind to memorialize our children who die before birth?

A. Perhaps your priest was not aware that Catholic funeral guidelines adapt in several ways to experiences like yours, which unfortunately are not uncommon.

First, full funeral rites may be celebrated for children whose parents intended them to be baptized but who died before baptism. Since there is no requirement that the body be present, a funeral or memorial Mass is totally appropriate after a miscarriage.

Other ceremonies, with prayers and Scripture readings chosen to meet the particular needs of the family and friends, are possible and entirely appropriate. These provisions are explained in the church’s “Order of Christian Funerals” in the section on funeral rites for children.

That special strength: Patience Gloria Chisholm writes in “Parents of Teenagers” about a trip to the grocery store with her two teens who were battling nonstop. Her son had called his sister a dork, and her daughter had yelled at him to shut up “for the hundredth time.” Gloria felt irritation turning to anger. She had to get away to calm down.

She ordered her son to go over by the carrots and her daughter to go over by the broccoli — “NOW!” The writer herself ran over to the eggplants, where she “took ten deep breaths and prayed like mad that God would help me stay in control enough not to bounce every eggplant off some teenager’s head.”

The silent prayer and minute’s “time out” restored her self-control. Gloria didn’t let herself scream, “You stupid, inconsiderate kids are driving me crazy!” Practicing patience enabled her to restrain herself, rather than say things she knew she would regret.

When we are angry, we may feel like we are ready to explode. We have to control that first impulse long enough to let our good sense and our concern for others and ourselves step in and say, “Hold it! You don’t really want to do that.”

The late great theologian Bernard Häring observed, “Patience with yourself and with others are twins that should never be separated. Each one has to be understood as a share of the unfathomable patience of God with us all, with me, and with you.”

In his “Virtues of an Authentic Life,” Häring recalls a psychotherapist who sent one of his patients to Häring in the hope of lifting her spirits. After conversing a while, the priest said, “May I ask you a question that I find embarrassing? Do you sometimes slap yourself in the face, perhaps in front of a mirror?”

Astounded, she asked, “Whatever made you come up with that question? I’ve never told anyone about it before. When I get really impatient with myself, I sometimes go through this ritual of selfpunishment.”

Häring’s solution for the woman was to develop

Question Corner FATHER JOHN DIETZEN CNS Columnist

Does Lutheran-Catholic agreement apply to all Lutherans?

Q. Your column a few weeks ago concerning the agreement on justification between Lutherans and Catholics was enlightening. We do not understand, though, if this refers to all Lutheran churches. Our friends, Missouri Synod Lutherans, tell us the agreement does not pertain to them. Can you explain if this is true?

A. Yours is an excellent question. Many Catholics, especially in the United States, have received similar comments from their Lutheran friends.

The Joint Declaration on Justification, reached in 1998 and signed in October 1999, was between the Catholic Church and the Lutheran World Federation.

The federation is an association of Lutheran churches with authority to act on behalf of members in matters committed to it. It represents about 58 million of the 61.5 million Lutherans in the world.

Bishop Christian Krause and Rev. Ishmael Noko, president and general secretary respectively of the LWF, signed the declaration for the Lutherans. Cardinal Edward Cassidy, president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, and Bishop Walter Kasper, secretary of the same council, signed for the Catholic Church.

The confusion you experience results from the fact that the LWF represents by far the majority, but not all, Lutheran churches. The largest Lutheran church in

The Catholic News & Herald 13

From the Bishop THE MOST REV. WILLIAM G. CURLIN Bishop of Charlotte “Open Wide the Doors to Christ” In this Great Jubilee of the Year 2000, I reflect on the beginning of Jesus Christ’s ministry when, in the temple, He read from the Prophet Isaiah. “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good tidings to the afflicted; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim a year of the Lord’s favor.” (61:1-2) As disciples of Jesus, we are called to follow in his footsteps. We are called to reach out to the poor, the brokenhearted, and the captives.

We must “Open Wide the Doors to Christ” and serve all who seek him in their lives. The ministries funded by the DSA provide a tremendous opportunity to open those doors for others, and your contribution to the appeal makes you an instrument of God bringing people to Christ and serving the Christ in them.

As your bishop, I have been touched by the many joys, sorrows and challenges experienced by the faithful of our diocese. When I meet people who are trying to cope with a family crisis or the death of a loved one, I am grateful for the counselors at Catholic Social Services who are helping to bring hope back into their lives.

I have seen the joy that a child brings into the home of an adoptive couple, and I bless God for the Adoption Program of CSS. I am thankful for the work of our Hispanic, African American and Hmong Ministries in addressing the needs and challenges of the growing multicultural population of the diocese.

There are thousands of children, youth and college students in the diocese looking for answers to their faith questions. Our educational ministries funded by the DSA provide workshops for catechists and campus ministers who will return to their parishes and colleges to share the Good News with others.

Mother Theresa of Calcutta taught us to find Jesus in the poorest of the poor. He waits in the least of our brothers and sisters, waits there to be loved, waits for us to open the doors to our hearts.

As I travel to the parishes and missions of our diocese, I see countless men and women who have opened their lives to Christ. I see good and faithful people feeding the hungry, visiting the sick and prisoners, lifting up the fallen, and giving hope to those in despair.

Our DSA gives us a way to live out the challenge of our faith in this Jubilee Year. It is a way to be Jesus for others and to recognize and help the Jesus in our midst. Through the DSA we are able to make Christ present to the world in a real and tangible way. I am confident that the gift you share to the DSA will make a difference in the lives of thousands of people by helping turn a troubled time into a year of the Lord’s favor for us all.

1 4 The Catholic News & Herald

DSA 2000 Parish Targets Our Lady of the Assumption Parish, Charlotte $39,783.00 St. John Neumann Parish, Charlotte

$76,920.00 Our Lady of Consolation Parish, Charlotte

$34,519.00 St. Ann Parish, Charlotte

$58,287.00 St. Gabriel Parish, Charlotte

$275,318.00 St. Patrick Cathedral Parish, Charlotte

$69,985.00 St. Peter Parish, Charlotte

$72,069.00 St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Charlotte

$90,908.00 St. Thomas Aquinas Parish, Charlotte

$107,774.00 St. Luke Parish, Charlotte

$43,497.00 St. Mark Parish, Huntersville

$66,368.00 St. Matthew Parish, Charlotte

$206,465.00 Our Lady of the Annunciation Parish, Albemarle $17,024.00 St. James Parish, Concord

$44,928.00 St. James Parish, Hamlet

$9,111.00 St. Joseph Mission, Concord

$14,043.00 Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Monroe

$29,081.00 Sacred Heart Parish, Salisbury

$51,474.00 Sacred Heart Mission, Hamlet

$2,105.00 Our Lady of the Americas Parish, Biscoe

$9,277.00 St. Andrew the Apostle Parish, Mars Hill

$6,400.00 St. Barnabas Parish, Arden

$44,387.00 St. Eugene Parish, Asheville

$65,771.00 St. Joan of Arc Parish, Asheville

$18,316.00 Basilica of St. Lawrence Parish, Asheville

$55,223.00 Sacred Heart Parish, Brevard

$37,056.00 Immaculate Conception Parish, Hendersonville $87,366.00 St. Jude Mission, Highlands

$10,644.00 St. Margaret Mary Parish, Swannanoa

$22,197.00 St. John the Baptist Parish, Tryon

$22,968.00 St. Elizabeth Parish, Boone

$38,995.00 Sacred Heart Mission, Mars Hill

$3,936.00 St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Jefferson

$6,366.00 St. John Baptist de La Salle Parish, North Wilkesboro $9,713.00 St. Frances of Rome Mission, Sparta

$3,964.00 St. Lucien Parish, Spruce Pine

$7,882.00 Queen of the Apostles Parish, Belmont

$28,301.00 Immaculate Conception Parish, Forest City

$10,923.00 St. Michael Parish, Gastonia

$69,067.00 Christ the King Mission, Shelby

$4,572.00 St. Dorothy Parish, Lincolnton

$13,089.00 Our Lady of the Angels Mission, Morganton

$6,194.00 St. Mary Parish, Shelby

$16,788.00 St Helen Mission, Belmont

$3,395.00 St. Joseph Parish, Asheboro

$24,746.00 St. Joseph of the Hills Parish, Eden

February 4, 2000

DSA

$10,105.00 Our Lady of Grace Parish, Greensboro

$107,449.00 St. Benedict Parish, Greensboro

$17,094.00 St. Mary Parish, Greensboro

$23,031.00 St. Paul the Apostle Parish, Greensboro

$124,370.00 St. Pius Tenth Parish, Greensboro

$69,939.00 Christ the King Parish, High Point

$11,181.00 Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, High Point $69,161.00 Holy Infant Parish, Reidsville

$12,326.00 Our Lady of the Highways Parish, Thomasville $12,374.00 St. Aloysius Parish, Hickory

$71,269.00 St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Lenoir

$15,252.00 St. Therese Parish, Mooresville

$65,721.00 St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Morganton

$25,284.00 St. Philip the Apostle Parish, Statesville

$37,738.00 St. Joseph Parish, Newton

$23,619.00 Holy Redeemer Parish, Andrews

$2,692.00 St. Joseph Parish, Bryson City

$5,709.00 Immaculate Conception Mission, Waynesville $3,052.00 Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission, Bryson City $2,700.00 Prince of Peace Mission, Andrews

$2,339.00 St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Franklin

$20,712.00 Immaculate Heart of Mary Mission, Murphy $9,620.00 Our Lady of the Mountains Mission, Highlands $9,348.00 St. Margaret Parish, Maggie Valley

$15,514.00 St. John the Evangelist Parish, Waynesville $12,703.00 St. Mary Parish, Sylva

$10,206.00 St. William Parish, Murphy

$11,142.00 St. Stephen Mission, North Wilkesboro

$5,335.00 Holy Cross Parish, Kernersville

$44,347.00 Our Lady of the Rosary Parish, Lexington

$11,522.00 St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Mocksville

$7,390.00 Holy Angels Parish, Mount Airy

$12,368.00 Our Lady of Mercy Parish, Winston-Salem

$49,730.00 St. Benedict the Moor Parish, WinstonSalem $10,692.00 St. Leo Parish, Winston-Salem

$113,259.00 Holy Family Parish, Clemmons

$83,014.00 St. Bernadette Mission, Spruce Pine

$12,457.00 Holy Spirit Parish, Denver

$19,184.00 Good Shepherd Mission, Winston-Salem

$8,643.00 Holy Trinity Parish, Taylorsville

$6,138.00 Our Lady of Fatima Mission, WinstonSalem $17,074.00

Allocation of Funds

4% 10%

Educational Ministries = 40% Catholic Social Services = 34%

12%

Vocations = 12%

40% 34%

Multicultural Ministries = 10 % Campaign Expenses = 4%

Open your hearts and minds in support of the diocese

By Alesha M. Price Staff Writer CHARLOTTE — Over the years, many people have selflessly given financial support to the diocese for its many programs and ministries. As people open their hearts and minds to the act of giving, they also open their spirits to Christ and can receive much more in return. The cycle of giving and receiving continues as the 2000 Diocesan Support Appeal rolls around.

As in past years, this year’s DSA will provide funding for four main areas of ministry: Catholic Social Services (CSS), Multicultural Ministries, Educational Ministries and the Vocations program. Thirty-five agencies and ministries receive DSA funding According to Bill Weldon, diocesan chief financial officer, this year’s target amount is $3,140,000 — a 6.8 percent increase, or $200,000 more than last year. Three-fourths of the increase will go toward CSS and multicultural ministries.

“Most of the additional funding for CSS will benefit a new economic development initiative, which targets low-income persons in the western counties of our diocese,” explained Weldon. “Additional funding for Hispanic evangelization is in direct response to the rapidly-growing Hispanic population in our diocese.”

The DSA goal is calculated through account-by-account budgets for each of the agencies and ministries.

Two components — program changes and cost increases — are carefully examined when establishing the DSA budget. Each budget item is evaluated and addressed on a case-by-case basis,

said Weldon.

“We are all very conscious of the sacrifices people make. We have a responsibility to the people of this diocese to use their gifts as prudently as possible,” said Weldon Monthly financial reports ensure accurate accountability and provide a run-down of each agency’s activities.

“Our diocese is a vibrant, growing Church. As the Church grows, so do its needs. This year’s DSA will provide funding to support vital services of the Church throughout Western North Carolina,” said Weldon. “We greatly appreciate the generosity of all those who support the DSA.” t Contact Staff Writer Alesha M. Price by calling (704) 370-3354 or e-mail amprice@charlottediocese.org.

Senior Staff Accountant Providence House, a nationwide distributor of Catholic books, audio/ video and gift products, is seeking candidates for the position of Senior Staff Accountant at its Fort Mill, SC (10 miles south of Charlotte) headquarters location.

Primary responsibilities include: sales tax recording, filing and registration; general ledger accounting; management of payables and receivables; budget preparation and analysis; internal and external reporting; cash management; and asset management.

Promotion to corporate controller and beyond is a future possibility for successful performer. Starting salary commensurate on experience/qualifications. Medical, dental, disability and retirement benefits provided.

Minimum qualifications include a B.A. in Accounting plus 3-5 years experience as a corporate accountant or CPA. Knowledge/experience of information system technology, e-commerce and CPA or CMA are preferred but not required.

Send resume to: Bill Brown Vice-President, Operations Providence House P.O. Box 1589

February 4, 2000

2000 DSA Ministries Budget Catholic Social Services Diocesan Ministries Special Ministries (see list at right) Office of Justice and Peace

Campaign for Human Development • Catholic Relief Services

Parish Social Ministry • Voices for Justice • Legislative Network

DSA Supported Agencies and Ministries

$ 178,175 $

88,467

Catholic Social Service Administration Refugee Resettlement Office

$ 124,935 $ 24,483

Regional Services Western Regional Office - Asheville Hispanic Services • Adoption • Counseling

$ 179,242

Crisis Intervention • Foster Care • Pregnancy Support

Charlotte Regional Office

$ 244,391

Piedmont Triad Office - Winston-Salem

$ 227,817

Multicultural Ministries African American Hispanic Ministry Hmong Ministry

$ 6,200 $ 280,283 $ 43,729

Adoption • Counseling • Crisis Intervention Foster Care • Pregnancy Support • Programa Esperanza Casa Guadalupe • Adoption • Counseling Crisis Intervention • Foster Care • Pregnancy Support

Educational Ministries Faith Formation $ 334,734 Catholic Schools $ 214,454 Campus Ministry $ 381,510 Evangelization $ 25,000 Lay Ministry Training $ 38,817 Media Resources $ 65,103 Vicar’s Office $ 67,974 Youth Ministry $ 114,759 Vocations Permanent Diaconate Seminarian Education

$ 91,687 $ 275,733

Campaign Expenses

$ 132,507

Total

ClassiEMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Accounts Payable Accountant: The Diocese of Charlotte is accepting applications for an accounts payable accountant. The position is responsible for all A/P functions including processing vendor invoices and employee expense reimbursements; generating checks; addressing vendor inquiries, etc. Applicants should have a minimum of one year recent related experience and a high school diploma.

Please forward resume and salary history to Schools Controller, 1123 South Church Street, Charlotte, NC 28203.

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.

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

The Catholic News & Herald 15

DSA

$3,140,000

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.

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

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

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

Director of Music Ministry: Opportunity to serve full-time in welcoming, prayerful community as the primary coordinator of music for all parish liturgies. Reports to the Pastor. Vatican II community; 1900 families I central North Carolina. Coordinates with director of liturgy in planning liturgical mu-

Social Services Ministries 704-370-3262 Diocesan Ministries 704-370-3228 Disability Ministry 704-370-3250 Disaster Relief 704-370-3228 Elder Ministries 704-370-3220 Family Life 704-370-3250 Marriage Preparation 704-370-3228 Natural Family Planning 704-370-3230 Prison Ministry (beeper)704-581-7693 Respect Life 704-370-3229 Office of Justice and Peace 704-370-3225 Campaign for Human Development 704-370-3234 Catholic Relief Services 704-370-3231 Education - Issue Response 704-370-3225 Social Services — Western Office 704-255-0146 Hispanic Social Services • Adoption • Counseling Crisis Intervention • Foster Care • Pregnancy Support Social Services — Charlotte Office 704-370-3232 Adoption • Counseling • Crisis Intervention Foster Care • Pregnancy Support • Programa Esperanza Social Services — Piedmont-Triad Office 336-727-0705 Casa Guadalupe • Adoption • Counseling Crisis Intervention • Foster Care • Pregnancy Support Multicultural Ministries 704-370-6299 African American Ministry 704-370-3399 Hispanic Ministry 704-335-1281 Hmong Ministry 704-327-2341 Educational Ministries 704-370-3210 Campus Ministry 704-370-3212 Catholic Schools Administration 704-370-3271 Faith Formation 704-370-3246 Evangelization 704-370-3214 Liturgy and Worship 704-370-3316 Lay Ministry Training 704-370-3213 Media Resources 704-370-3241 RCIA 704-370-3246 Youth Ministry 704-370-3211 Vocations 704-370-3353 Permanent Diaconate 704-370-3344 Seminarian Education 704-370-3353

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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. sic; works closely with clergy and staff. Requires master’s degree or equivalent; must have music performance skills (e.g., piano, voice); choral directing, cantor training; knowledge of Catholic rites and rituals. Available no later than July 1, 2000. Salary commensurate with education and experience.

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

Infant Care Provider: South Charlotte. Excellent pay and flexible hours for warm and loving person who can help out busy mom with infant. Non-smoker and references required. Please call Judy at (704) 553-8136.

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.

Youth/Young Adult Minister: Holy Redeemer Ro-

man 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.

For Sale: Friendship Glen - Beautiful new high quality homes/homesites. Northeast Guilford County. Large lots. Please pass the word along to REAL ESTATE those moving to (or in) the Greensboro, Reidsville, Burlington areas. Thank you. Call Philippe White - part-owner/broker (336)272-1011.

Thank you, St. Jude, for prayers answered. -S.C.

PRAYERS & INTENTIONS

1 6 The Catholic News & Herald

February 4, 2000

DSA

Ministry making strides with diocesan

promotion of the missionary spirit, which involves targeting those who have strayed away from the Church, and the formation of laity. Hispanic Ministry further divides these areas into 12 concrete commitments.

“When we go into different communities, we look for the local leadership and perform retreats,” explained Father Finnerty. “These retreats are instrumental in promoting the whole pastoral and conversion experience.

From this, they form small communities and begin visiting in other neighborhoods.”

This year, 19 retreats are planned — 10 adult and 9 youth — which will take place at Holy Family Church in Clemmons. The youth retreats will take place in “We cannot rely on priests, who are so few Hendersonville, Monroe and Greensboro. in number, to do all the work. We need “It is inspiring to see more vocations and people to work with the so many young men and Hispanic population, those who have learned women who come here and are inspired and enSpanish and about the community.” riched by their experi— Father Joe Waters of Taylorsville/Dobson ence,” said Father Frank O’Rourke, pastor of Holy Family Church. “I consider it a privitween the Hispanic community and the lege to put our buildings at the service diocese. It also functions as a link for of this wonderful work being done for those who would not otherwise have the Hispanic community throughout a voice. our diocese.”

“People have heard that the CharOne of the center’s most commulotte-area economy is booming and offers nity projects is the planned construcprogress for whomever is able to come tion of a new multi-purpose building, and work,” said Hilda Gurdian, publisher which will serve as a larger meeting of “La Noticia.” “Some of us have come place for the Hispanic community. directly from other states or other counFather Joe Waters, administrator tries; we are continuing to grow.” of Holy Trinity Mission in TaylorsGurdian, a Venezuela native, atville and Sagrado Corazon de Jesus tends one of the five weekend Masses at Mission in Dobson, works with Histhe Charlotte Catholic Hispanic Center. panics in his area and also in Boone, She cites Vincentian Father Vincent Newton and Mount Airy. He sharpened Finnerty, diocesan director of Hispanic his Spanish and learned about Hispanic Ministry and the director of the center, life from his work in Mexico and Peru. as being an “advocate” for her people.

He has visited farm workers during Father Finnerty not only works in the summer to encourage them to go to Charlotte at the center but travels all church and has taken people to the docover the diocese to minister to Hispantor and served as a translator. He also ics in cities and towns. His ministry is conducts marriage preparation classes. based on the June 1998 Diocesan Hispanic Pastoral Plan, which stems from ideas from the National Pastoral Plan for Hispanic Ministry from the Bishops’ Committee on Hispanic Affairs of the National Council of Catholic Bishops.

The four areas of concentration include: the promotion of small evangelization communities or neighborhood ministries, team ministry, the

By Alesha M. Price Staff Writer CHARLOTTE — The number of Hispanics that are moving to this country grows every year. According to figures from the Census Bureau published in “La Noticia,” a Spanish language newspaper published in Charlotte, the Hispanic population has grown more than 110 percent in North Carolina since 1990, with an estimated 300,000 Hispanic people living in the state.

An estimated 60,000 people have come to Charlotte in search of jobs and a new life in this state. They bring with them their culture, long-standing traditions and their Catholic religion.

Hispanic Ministry serves as a link be-

He wants the people to do the work of ministering to others in the community through retreats and Bible groups.

“The ministry is important because it helps them to come to know their faith,” said Father Waters. “However, we cannot rely on priests, who are so few in number, to do all the work.

We need more vocations and people to work with the Hispanic population, those who have learned Spanish and about the community.”

Franciscan Sister Andrea Inkrott, coordinator of the Hickory Vicariate Hispanic Ministry, is involved in a Spanish radio program currently in the works. On Saturdays starting in February from 12 to 1 p.m. on 1170 AM on Claremont, the vicariate is sponsoring programming in Spanish, featuring the community.

The topics include reflections on the Sunday reading, income tax preparation, parental information and other important topics of which many Hispanics may not be aware. The programming had previously been sponsored by the diocesan Hispanic Ministry Office.

“This is a channel to advertise what is being done in different parishes and to establish a Catholic presence,” said Sister Andrea.

“The Hispanic presence is seen as a

blessing, and we can learn much from their community. They bring another way of practicing out faith, which is very incarnational,” she continued.

“The parishes need to work on becoming environments where ‘inculturation,’ the opportunity for expression of worship with a mixture of cultures, can take place.”

Sister Andrea said that there are many needs within the Hispanic community, which extend beyond their faith, including a lack of transportation, language problems, unemployment and other problems.

“We are a growing community, and because we are new, there are so many things that need to be done. There is a need for education, better health care, childcare, a need for religion and a new church,” added Gurdian.

Many agree that a key way to strengthen Hispanic Ministry is through communication.

Luis Wolf, administrator of the Catholic Hispanic Center in Charlotte, said, “The pastors of the various churches should learn a little more about Hispanic culture and how they can integrate without losing their identity.”

“We need more bilingual and bicultural priests,” said Father Finnerty.

“In general, the pastors have been open to Hispanic Ministry, but they need to understand the culture because it is expression of their faith.”

Father Finnerty said, “There is a positive spirit in the Hispanic Catholic community, and each parish is different. There is a spirit of collaboration and living the faith among the people.

It becomes a social as well as spiritual environment.” t Contact Staff Writer Alesha M. Price by calling (704) 370-3354 or e-mail amprice@charlottediocese.org.

Hispanic Ministry is one of 35 pro-