March 8, 2002

The Catholic News & Herald 1

March 8, 2002

March 8, 2002 Volume 11 t Number 25

Inside Deacons and wives celebrate faith together

...Page 4

Case for imperfect saint heard in Triad

...Page 5

Friends, co-workers remember woman of faith and love

...Page 7

Local News Romania’s plight featured at World Day of Prayer

...Page 6

Deacon’s ministry grows out of tragedy

...Page 16

Every Week Entertainment ...Pages 10-11

Editorials & Columns ...Pages 12-13

“According to our Law we cannot condemn a man before hearing him and finding out what he has done.”

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

Fire scorches church, not the parish

BY KEVIN E. MURRAY Associate Editor NEWTON — Flames were spouting into the early morning air before anyone knew what was happening.

“I was awakened by a parishioner who said the church was burning,” said Father James Collins, pastor of St. Joseph Church. “I looked out my window and saw all the fire trucks.”

The Newton Fire Department received the call approximately 5:30 a.m.

Feb. 28. A Newton Police Department car happened to be on patrol near the church when the fire was spotted. The fire was contained within 30 minutes, according to the fire department.

“I couldn’t believe it, seeing the flames coming out of the roof,” said Bob Draher, maintenance supervisor at St. Joseph.

Kris Mulligan, music director at St. Joseph, received news of the fire via a phone call from another parishioner at 6:45 a.m. “I didn’t know what to think on the way over here,” she said.

“The church was still smoking at 7:10 when I arrived.”

“I thank the Newton Fire and Police departments for their quick response time,” said Father Collins.

“Their response time helped save the church. I just thank God it (the fire) didn’t go into the main sanctuary.”

The fire began and was contained in the church’s chapel, where the majority of the structural, mechanical and electrical damage occurred. A candle that had been left burning caused the blaze, according to the fire report.

The sanctuary received mostly smoke damage, said Rev. Mr. Guy Piche, properties director for the diocese.

“The damage is quite extensive, and will require a bit of work,” said Jason Jack, manager of Servpro of Hickory, which will be coordinating repair efforts with Walker Construction Company. Both companies have

Photo by Kevin E. Murray

Parishioners of St. Joseph Church in Newton survey the damage hours after the church’s chapel was consumed by fire. already begun an investigation into the extent of the damage and will start preliminary planning of construction within the week.

That construction, which may last two to three months, will include rebuilding the chapel, as well as “remodeling” and “reconditioning” the entire church, said Jack. Pews, ceilings, offices and more will need to be thoroughly cleaned, if not replaced.

“It will all be as good as it was the day before it (the fire) happened,” said Jack.

Masses will continue as scheduled, but will be held in Holy Family Hall until use of the sanctuary is approved.

“We definitely look forward to rebuilding,” said Joe Lichtenwalner, pastoral council president at St. Joseph.

“I think it’s a great opportunity to bring the community together,” said

Mulligan. “People have been pouring in and offering help.”

Several pastors from other denominational churches, as well as two area funeral homes, have all offered their assistance and use of their facilities for Mass, said Father Collins.

“The community really comes together when things happen like this,” he said.

In the end, Father Collins and other parishioners were just relieved no one was injured in the fire.

“It could have been a lot worse,” said Lichtenwalner.

Contact Associate Editor Kevin E. Murray by calling (704) 370-3334, or e-mail kemurray@charlottediocese.org.

Haven for homeless women and children

BY MARY MARSHALL Correspondent BELMONT — Catherine’s House ministry is one of dedication and commitment in response to the needs of homeless women and their children. It provides a non-threatening, safe and comfortable environment that acknowledges and fosters respect for individual differences.

Catherine’s House sits in the midst of the former Sacred Heart College campus in a building that once housed

the college’s music department. Today, the small music rooms provide shelter and comfort for up to 40 homeless women and their children who come from North and South Carolina.

Most residents, who come from all walks of life and represent all nationalities, are referred by agency and/or individuals, but some call or knock on the door asking for assistance.

Founded in 1992 by the Sisters of Mercy, Catherine’s House continues

the work of Sisters of Mercy founder Catherine McAuley of Dublin, Ireland, who had a great passion for helping poor women and children.

Today, Catherine’s House flourishes under the guidance of Mercy Sister Bernadette McNamara, who became president and CEO of Catherine’s House Inc. in August 2001. She was previously parish administrator at

See Catherine’s House, page 14

2 The Catholic News & Herald WASHINGTON (CNS) — Jim Towey, the Catholic who now heads the White House Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, asked Catholic social ministry leaders to lend their support to passage of legislation supporting greater federal support for faith-based organizations that are trying to solve social needs and ills. “Government cannot love. It’s hard for government to be neighbor,” Towey said. “But government can work in partnership” with faith-based groups, he added.

“We can remove the real-world barriers.”

Towey spoke during a general session on the final day of the Feb. 24-27 Catholic Social Ministry Gathering in Washington.

Panel highlights religious differences on status of human embryo WASHINGTON (CNS) — Even when they read the same sacred texts, scholars of bioethics reach different conclusions about the moral status of the human embryo, as evidenced by a Feb. 27 panel discussion on the topic. The Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life brought together four bioethicists — a Catholic, a Jew and two Protestants — for the panel discussion at the National Press Club in Washington.

The sharpest contrasts came in the views of Jesuit Father Kevin FitzGerald, chairman of Catholic health care ethics at the Center for Clinical Bioethics and research associate professor at the Georgetown University Medical Center, and Laurie Zoloth, director of Jewish studies and associate professor at San Francisco State University. “There isn’t going to be some wonderful consensus to which we all ascribe on the status of the human embryo,” Father FitzGerald said.

At United Nations, Vatican calls for world-wide ban on human cloning UNITED NATIONS (CNS) — In a speech to a U.N. committee, a Vatican representative called for a worldwide ban on all human cloning, whether carried out for human reproduction or therapeutic purposes.

Human cloning violates the right to life and the status of the human embryo as a free individual, Archbishop Renato R. Martino said Feb. 26 at U.N. headquarters in New York. “The Holy See firmly supports a worldwide and comprehensive ban on human cloning, no matter what techniques are used and what aims are pursued,” he said.

CNS photo from Catholic Relief Services

Life through the eyes of Afghan refugee children An Afghan child drew this picture of a refugee’s journey through the mountains of Afghanistan. It is one of 28 drawings by children from the Shamshatoo refugee camp in Pakistan on displayed at the Capital Children’s Museum in Washington through June. Catholic Relief Services workers who assist in running the camp collected the children’s scenes.

Sainthood cause opened for Virginia seminarian who died in 1920 RICHMOND, Va. (CNS) — With the approval of the Holy See, the Diocese of Richmond formally has opened the cause for possible canonization of a former diocesan seminarian who died in 1920 at age 22 while enrolled at the North American College in Rome for theology studies.

Richmond Bishop Walter F. Sullivan, after consultation with other bishops of the Baltimore province, has signed a decree that declares Francis Joseph Parater III “a servant of God” and establishes a tribunal “to examine the reputation for sanctity and heroic virtues of Servant of God Frank Parater, seminarian.” The decree, dated Jan. 24, also is signed by Anne C. Edwards, chancellor of the diocese.

Catholic social ministers urged to get behind faith-based legislation

Episcopal March 8, 2002 Volume 11 • Number 25 Publisher: Most Reverend William G. Curlin Editor: Joann S. Keane Associate Editor: Kevin E. Murray Staff Writer: Alesha M. Price Graphic Designer: Tim Faragher Advertising Representative: Cindi Feerick Secretary: Sherill Beason 1123 South Church St., Charlotte, NC 28203 Mail: P.O. Box 37267, Charlotte, NC 28237 Phone: (704) 370-3333 FAX: (704) 370-3382 E-mail: catholicnews@charlottediocese.org The Catholic News & Herald, USPC 007-393, is published by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte, 1123 South Church St., Charlotte, NC 28203, 44 times a year, weekly except for Christmas week and Easter week and every two weeks during June, July and August for $15 per year for enrollees in parishes of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte and $18 per year for all other subscribers. Second-class postage paid at Charlotte NC and other cities. POSTMASTER: Send address corrections to The Catholic News & Herald, P.O. Box 37267, Charlotte, NC 28237.

March 8, 2002

The World in

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Bishop William G. Curlin will take part in the following events: March 17 — 10:30 a.m.

Mass and groundbreaking for new church St. Francis, Mocksville March 21 — Noon Mass St. Benedict’s Day Belmont Abbey Basilica, Belmont March 23 — 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Day of prayer and spiritual renewal for diocesan catechists Catholic Conference Center, Hickory March 24 — Palm Sunday 11 a.m. Mass St. Patrick, Charlotte March 26 — 11 a.m.

Chrism Mass St. Patrick, Charlotte

“Its position is based on biological analysis of the cloning process and anthropological, social, ethical and legal reflection on the negative implications that human cloning has on the life, dignity and rights of the human being,” he said.

Panelists assess what changed after 9-11 and what it means for church WASHINGTON (CNS) — “Everything did not change, but just about everything was touched” by the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, said panelist Robert Royal in a 90-minute session with about 500 U.S. Catholic social ministry leaders on challenges facing the church and world after Sept. 11. One question panelists discussed was the status of pacifism after the terrorist attacks and whether nonviolence was a public-policy option. Royal, head of the Faith & Reason Institute in Washington, was one of three panelists addressing the annual Catholic Social Ministry Gathering

Diocesan

plan -

wedding date. Engaged couples may take part in one of several Engaged Encounter weekends, which will take place at the Catholic Conference Center, 1551 Trinity Lane: today through Mar. 24, April 5-7, May 10-12, Aug. 23-25, Sept. 20-22 and Oct. 25-27. For registration and other information, call Carl Whitesel at (704) 987-9420 or (888) 310-9040 or e-mail eeregistration@yahoo.com.

22 SWANANNOA — The Lenten and Easter week schedules for St. Margaret Mary Church, 102 Andrew Place, will be as follows: penance service tonight at 7 p.m.; palms at all Masses on March 24; seder meal at 6 p.m. on March 25 with covered dish meal; 7 p.m. Mass on March 28 with washing of the feet followed with eucharistic adoration from 8 p.m.-midnight; Stations of the Cross on March 29 at noon for youth and teens and Mass at

at a plenary session on the final day of the group’s Feb. 24-27 meeting in Washington.

Diocesan mission helps Dominican village to finally get water EL CERCADO, Dominican Republic (CNS) — For years, when Father Andrew Connolly brought visitors to Abra de las Yayas, the farthest and most remote community in the sprawling parish of St. Peter the Apostle in El Cercado, he would tell them about the long struggle to bring water to the community. The Dominican government once considered drilling a well, he would tell them, but the effort died when they realized a road first would have to be built to bring the well-drilling truck over the mountain. Today Msgr. John Cervini — former pastor of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Church in Wyandanch, N.Y., who is now serving with Father Connolly at the mission sponsored by the Diocese of Rockville Centre — is still bringing the visitors to las Yayas. The difference, however, is that now there is water, which he credits to the vision of Father Connolly and the tireless work of Peace Corps volunteer Tremie Gregory.

Jesuit magazine says Harry Potter’s power is in getting kids to read ROME (CNS) — The most important power connected with the Harry Potter books is their power to get children to read, said an influential Italian Jesuit magazine.

La Civilta Cattolica, a magazine reviewed by the Vatican Secretariat of State before publication, presented what it described as a calm reflection on “the Harry Potter phenomenon” in its early-March edition. The magazine said the only remotely troubling thing about the books is that, unlike most magical children’s literature, Harry Potter’s magic is being exercised in the real world of modern-day England. The possibility of confusion for young readers should not be “undervalued, nor blown out of proportion,” the magazine said. A bit of parental guidance should be enough to let children know that Harry Potter’s magic is fictitious, it said.

3 p.m. with veneration of the cross and presentation of the heart of the cross at 7 p.m.; blessing of food baskets at 10 a.m. and Easter vigil Mass at 8 p.m. on March 30; and Easter day Masses at 8:30 and 11 a.m. on March 31. For more information, call the church office at (828) 686-8833.

23 CHARLOTTE — All women are invited to St. Matthew Church, 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy., for its 3rd Annual Women’s Day, today from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Mercy Sister Helen Burns will speak on the topic, “Check Your Baggage.” The day of prayer and reflection is dedicated to Mary, the mother of God. Mass is at 8 a.m. in the sanctuary with a continental breakfast at 8:30 a.m. in the parish center. For registration and other information, call Kathy Murray at (704) 849-0398.

23 SALISBURY — A diocesan School of Leaders will be held at Sacred Heart Church, 128 N. Fulton St., this morning at 9 a.m. For further details, call Dan Hines at (704) 544-6665.

24 CHARLOTTE — St. Matthew

March 8, 2002

Pope asks Catholic communicators to ensure church’s voice in media VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope John Paul II asked Catholic communications professionals to make sure the Gospel and the church’s voice are not sidelined in modern media. Speaking March 1 to participants in a plenary meeting of the Pontifical Council for Social Communications, he called engagement with the world of media “a vital part” of today’s church efforts to preach the message of Christ. “The special challenge before you is to find ways to ensure that the voice of the church is not marginalized or silenced in the modern arena of the media. You have a role to play in ensuring that the Gospel is not confined to a strictly private world,” the pope said.

Huge demand for first-ever Vatican euro coins surprises collectors VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Longtime collectors of Vatican coins were treated to an unusual and unwelcome sight March 1 when they arrived at the Vatican to pick up a mint set of the firstever Vatican euro coins. People began lining up at the Vatican entrance near the Paul VI Audience Hall at 5 a.m., police said. In fact, there were lines at every Vatican entrance before Swiss Guards and gendarmes, assisted by Italian police, managed to get one orderly line formed.

By noon, at least 300 people were waiting in line.

Enron collapse has Catholic business community talking about ethics WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (CNS) — The collapse of Enron has sparked a lively debate among members of Catholic business ethics organizations, according to Brian Von Gruben, a retired New Orleans businessman and regional director for Legatus. “It is not just something that happened in Houston, but it affects lives everywhere and the whole credibility of business takes a blow — the ripple effect through society is really pretty enormous,” he told The Florida Catholic diocesan newspaper. “Those decisions made by just a few people in a business meeting really do matter, and if (our decisions) can will focus on the following topics on the following dates from 7-9 p.m.: “The Nature of Biology, Freedom and the Human Person” - tonight, “Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research” - April 16, “The Ethical Aspects of Human Cloning” - May 2 and “End of Life Issues” - May 31. For more information, call Pat Rodite at (704) 541-9744.

22 CHARLOTTE — The St. Gabriel Church Men’s Club will hold its world famous fish fry this evening from 5-7 p.m. in the St. Gabriel School cafeteria, 3016 Providence Rd. Menu includes fried and baked fish, clam chowder, Cole slaw, French fries, hush puppies, dessert and beverages. For details, call the church office at (704) 364-5431.

22 HICKORY — Engaged Encounter is for couples planning marriage, who desire a richer, fuller life together.

Although the encounter weekend is Catholic in origin and orientation, it is open to couples of any faith. Couples are encouraged to attend the weekend three to six months prior to their

The Catholic News & Herald 3

The World in

CNS photo from Reuters

Abortion posters hung in Dublin Posters advocating positions for the March 6 abortion referendum in Ireland are displayed near a statue of the Sacred Heart in Dublin March 3. The referendum generally seeks to continue the ban on abortions but the language is complex enough to confuse a majority of voters. hurt people they can also help people, and that is why it is important to bring your Catholic values into your business meetings,” he added. Legatus, which is based in Michigan, encourages Catholic CEOs to study, live and spread the faith in their business, professional and personal lives.

Von Gruben said there is no question the Enron collapse is a good example of the need for good ethics among business people at the highest level.

Prayer card released

by USCCB’s publishing arm a best-seller WASHINGTON (CNS) — The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ publishing arm, in an announcement about its best-sellers for 2001, said its “Prayer for Peace” prayer card was its No. 1 seller. About the size of a postcard, it

features four different artistic renderings of the Blessed Virgin Mary in color on one side and Pope John Paul II’s “Prayer for Peace to Mary, the Light of Hope” on the other. Issued Dec. 7, it sold 765,600 copies in the final weeks of 2001. The No. 2 best seller was the book, “Celebrate Christ’s Coming: Advent 2001,” which sold 340,578 copies. Additionally, the Spanish-language edition of the book sold 78,832 copies, making it ninth on the best-seller list.

Knights’ information service expands to the Internet NEW HAVEN, Conn. (CNS) — More than two dozen booklets on different aspects of the Catholic faith and a Catholic home-study course are now available on the Knights of Columbus Web site at www.kofc.org. The booklets

March 13 GREENSBORO — The Greensboro Council of Catholic Women will be having its annual mini-Lenten retreat at the Franciscan Center, 233 North Greene St., at the 12:10 p.m.

Masses continuing this afternoon and concluding March 20 with coffee and refreshments. Call Janet Law at (336) 288-6022 for more information.

15 LEXINGTON — Our Lady of the Rosary Church, 619 S. Main St., will be celebrating the following Lenten events: a fish fry with Cole slaw, beans, bread and beverages from 5-8 p.m. tonight; March 16 - 5 p.m. Mass and liturgy of the anointing; March 18 - penance service at 7 p.m.; and throughout Lent, soup and sandwich beginning at 5:45 p.m. every Friday followed by video, discussion, prayers, Stations of the Cross and Benediction. For further details, call the church office at (336) 248-2463.

16 CHARLOTTE — The 6th Annual Guinness St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival will take place today from 10

a.m.-6 p.m. at the First Union Atrium and Plaza on Tryon St. between 2nd and 3rd Sts. Featured will be the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, Charlotte Division, with a booth in the First Union Atrium; Celtic arts and crafts; the Rince Na h’Eireann and Walsh Kelley Irish Dancers; bagpipers; and other guests and events. For further information about the parade and festival, call Linda Dyer-Hart at (704) 542-6846. For LAOH membership information, contact Jeanmarie Schuler at (704) 554-0720 or visit http://laoh-charlotte.catholicweb. com.

16 GASTONIA — The Knights of Columbus St. Gregory Council No. 6700 will hold a dinner and dance for charitable K of C-sponsored projects tonight at the St. Michael Church parish center, 708 St. Michael Lane.

The night will feature a traditional dinner of corned beef, cabbage, potatoes, soda and rye bread, Irish coffee and Irish tea at 6:30 p.m.; dancing with live music from 7:30-11:30

and course are offered by the Knights’ Catholic Information Service, which since its founding in 1948 has sought to reach as many people as possible with the church’s message. “The Web effort is part of the Knights’ response to Pope John Paul II’s call for a new evangelization, using modern means of communication to spread the church’s message,” said Carl A. Anderson, supreme knight.

Assisi aftermath: Pope asks world leaders to promote dialogue VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Saying humanity must choose between love and hatred, Pope John Paul II asked political leaders of every country in the world to promote dialogue, forgiveness and concord. The pope made his request in a letter marking one month after a Jan. 24 day of prayer for peace in Assisi, Italy, attended by 200 representatives of a dozen religions. Along with the letter, the pope sent world leaders the religious gathering’s “decalogue” commitment for peace, saying he was “convinced that these 10 propositions can inspire your government’s political and social action.”

The letter was released March 4 at the Vatican.

French church leaders criticize treatment of refugees, asylum seekers OXFORD, England (CNS) — French church leaders have criticized their country’s “lamentable” treatment of refugees and asylum-seekers. “In our society, the poor par excellence are the asylum-seekers, those whose lives are destroyed by misery, violence and uncertainty,” said three bishops’ conference commissions in a joint declaration. The bishops said the complicated nature of French immigration procedures violated asylum-seekers’ rights guaranteed in the Geneva Convention. The late-February statement said hopes of better protection for asylum-seekers under a 1998 law had been “quickly disappointed” and described current asylum conditions as “lamentable.”

p.m.; and an Irish dancing performance from 7:30-8 p.m. For reservations, call Gene Courtemanche at (704) 435-4845 or Pat Watts at (704) 861-9466.

20 HAMLET — A series of presentations; sponsored by CSS Elder Ministry and facilitated by Richard Von Stamwitz, a national certified gerontological counselor; will continue throughout the diocese.

Today’s presentation will be given at St. James Church, 1018 Hamlet Ave., from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. with lunch at noon. Session I will concern the experience of aging in our culture and the message of faith, and session II will concern vocation and ministry in later years. For March 15 pre-registration and other information, call Sandra Breakfield at (704) 370-3220 or Marlo Wallace at (704) 370-3228.

21 CHARLOTTE — St. Matthew Church Respect Life Ministry will be sponsoring pro-life educational programs. Father Matthew Kauth will be the speaker for the series, which

4 The Catholic News & Herald

March 8, 2002

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Deacons and wives celebrate faith

know their ministry and proclaim their spirituality.

“You owe it to your wives, your children, the church and the deaconate,” said Bishop Curlin, referring to the importance of being healthy.

Second, a deacon must know his work and “...pray the liturgy and proclaim the word with passion,” said Bishop Curlin.

“Bring your heart and love of Jesus to the way you stand, genuflect, and hold your hands.”

Recognizing the support of a deacon’s wife, Bishop Curlin added a bit of humor saying to the wives, “If your husband doesn’t put you first in his life, you call me.”

He emphasized, “Wives keep the heart of Christ alive in their husbands. You are the heart of your husbands’ ministries.”

Deacons had the opportunity to mingle before the Mass and at a luncheon served in the St. Gabriel School cafeteria following the ceremony. They shared the tremendous spiritual changes that have taken place in their faith, lives and relationships with their wives. They cherished the knowledge gained through the years of preparation and the influence of the sacrament in their daily lives.

“Being a deacon has strengthened my faith tremendously,” said Rev. Mr. Dan Carl from St. James Church in Concord.

Rev. Mr. Carl has served as a deacon for 14 years and is director of the homeless shelter in Concord.

“We’re seeing a whole new spectrum of people who are in need,” he said. “My wife, Donna, and I jointly agree that our diaconal presence is prime in addressing these problems.”

Donna Carl added, “Our prayer life has been strengthened through his work as a deacon; we are very supportive of each other.”

Rev. Mr. Rafael Torres has served as a deacon at the Hispanic Catholic Center in Charlotte for six years. “Being a deacon has had a beautiful effect on my life,” he said.

Photo by Mary Marshall

Deacons pose with Bishop Curlin at the deacons’ annual recommitment Mass at St. Gabriel Church March 2. From left are Rev. Mr. David King, Rev. Mr. Tim Rohan, Bishop William G. Curlin, Rev. Mr. Vincent Shaw and Rev. Mr. Ben Wenning.

By MARY MARSHALL Correspondent CHARLOTTE — Bishop William G. Curlin presided over the deacons’ annual recommitment Mass at St. Gabriel Church March 2. Attending the celebration were 40 deacons and their wives from the Diocese of Charlotte.

Reflecting on the spiritual life of a deacon, Bishop Curlin said, “God put his word in our hands. When you realize your life involves performing God’s work in this world, then everything changes. When people see you, do they feel Jesus in their presence? Jesus must be the focus of your lives. Be what you claim to be. I challenge you to be Christ.”

In his homily, Bishop Curlin emphasized that deacons must care for themselves,

had two daughters-in-law convert to the Catholic faith and have five children, who are all active in the church.”

“As I work among the Hispanics, I see their many needs. My goal is to set a positive example for them. Many males aspire to become deacons because of the relationships I have developed with them.”

Rev. Mr. Torres said his wife and he understand each other better both spiritually and as human beings as a result of the spirituality that came from being a deacon.

“I relate better with my children and grandchildren,” he added.

Rev. Mr. Tim Rohan believes his faith grows daily as a result of being a deacon.

As a retiree, he is able to devote much of his time to his parish, Our Lady of Grace in Greensboro, where he finds his ministry brings fullness to his life.

Rev. Mr. Rohan’s wife, Eileen, said, “Together we share God’s ministry as I draw closer to God through his works.

We now pray together whereas previously we prayed separately. Through our prayer support, we set an example for our children.”

Rev. Mr. Vincent Shaw, who has served at St. Mary Church in Greensboro for 13 years, said his faith has filled his life with appreciation. “The relationship between my wife, Catherine, and I has expanded through my work as a deacon,” he said. “We feel the presence of God is very apparent in our marriage as is his ability to keep us together and on a straight path.”

Rev. Mr. Andy Cilone of Immaculate Conception Church in Forest City was a member of the diocese’s first deaconate class 18 years ago. As a cantor, Rev. Mr. Cilone continues to grow in faith as he shares his talents with other parish members.

“You minister to others, and they in turn minister to you, which increases your own spirituality,” he said. “Through family life worshiping together, we have grown spiritually and have a greater spiritual involvement with others. We’ve

March 8, 2002

Case for the imperfect saint

By REV. MR. GERALD POTKAY Correspondent GREENSBORO — Dr. Murray Arndt, Ph.D., professor emeritus from University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG), presented “The Case for the Imperfect Saint” to a standing-roomonly crowd of various Christian faiths at the Franciscan Center Feb. 26.

“What is true about human beings who work so tirelessly to make beautiful things is that they fail,” said Arndt. “Why? They are not God. Yet, the energy of those who fail becomes a lens by which we can view the nature of spiritual life.”

The greatest resources of humankind are weakness, imperfection and sinfulness, said Arndt. “At the same time, those who strive for perfection are doomed to failure as the journey of holiness is from and through imperfection,” he said.

Using Job as the perfect example, Arndt showed that we relate best to God in moments of greatest weakness. Only after being brought to his knees did Job truly see God for the first time, and he was overwhelmed by divine power, said Arndt. Only then did Job recant, surrender and become justified.

Referring to the life and words of Jesus, Arndt said, “Those who are whole do not need a physician...only the sick do.” Arndt stated that Jesus’ power extended to the weak, the poor, the hungry, the blind and the sinful. “It was the imperfect that he loved,” said Arndt. This is well pronounced in the Sermon on the Mount.

“Even St. Paul writes that God chose the foolish to confound the wise.

And that he gloried in his weakness,” said Arndt.

Applying this to the spiritual life, Arndt contrasted the prayer of the lowly publican with that of the Pharisee. “Prayer must begin low, and the one who prayers must look up,” said Arndt. “Rather than just a laundry list of things, prayer of petition is the absolute admission of need and total surrender of control. Prayer thus becomes a simple, critical declaration that ‘Thine is the Kingdom’; a fact that is readily acknowledged by both poets and children.”

Arndt encouraged his listeners “to assign a value to brokenness that allows us to become whole by understanding that God is love. He loves us even in our sinfulness.”

Through the healing process we receive from God “comes a revitalization of prayer life for those things we really need — hope, outrage against injustices and forgiveness for ourselves and for others,” said Arndt, “a life through which we are grateful to the divine lover as we realize we are undeserving of divine love.”

Through acknowledgement and surrender to God’s will, “we can bring empathy to the pitiable, the drunks, the homeless, not because of supreme pity but because they are us, and we are

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Photo by Rev. Mr. Gerald Potkay

Dr. Murray Arndt, professor emeritus from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, presenting “The Case for the Imperfect Saint” at the Franciscan Center Feb. 26. them,” said Arndt.

“Following the example of the Olympians,” Arndt concluded, “we must live on the edge through despair, boredom and hunger, aware that we have the courage to leap into the arms of God who loves us.”

Two members of the Our Father Lutheran Church, Nancy Southern and Judy Joiner, both found the presentation interesting and enjoyable.

“Now I realize that all are given thorns to strengthen us,” said Southern.

“I too can see that weaknesses become the turning point towards strength,” added Joiner.

Carol Leach, a parishioner at Holy Infant Catholic Church in Reidsville, felt that the presentation was profound and very well presented. “I was most affected by the way Dr. Arndt explained the ‘empathy’ we feel for others who are weak is because ‘we are them,’” she said. “His words were very much alive in truth.”

Born in Milwaukee, Wis., Arndt holds a bachelor’s degree from Catholic University in Washington, D.C., and a doctorate in American literature and poetry from North Carolina’s Duke University.

Arndt has received the coveted award for excellence in teaching from UNCG, where he taught English.

Since retiring, Arndt lectures and co-authoring “Homiletics for Lent,” which is being published by Paulist Press.

Contact Correspondent Rev. Mr. Ger-

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Oratorian priest in South Carolina charged with sexual

By Joann S. Keane Editor ROCK HILL, S.C. — Father Juan Carlos Castano, a suspended Oratorian priest was arrested March 5, charged with forcible fondling/lewd act upon a minor. If convicted, the 44 year-old priest faces a sentence of up to 10 years in prison.

“We are following the established policy of the Diocese of Charleston (concerning reported child sexual abuse),” said Oratorian Father Joseph Wahl. Father Castano, a native of Colombia, South America, was removed from ministry prior to the arrest.

In a statement read to parishioners March 3, Father Wahl said, “This is a very painful thing for all of us in the Rock Hill, York and Lancaster Catholic communities. In this type of situation, there is always a chance that there may be other victims. Want you to know that we are here for you.” The Diocese of Charleston made the services of a victim assistance minister available for the parishes in the area.

Father Castano arrived at the Oratory in 1999, said John Carroll, a spokesperson for the Diocese of Charleston. “At that time, all his records and transcripts were in order, and (came) with the recommendation that he was in good standing in South America.”

“Father Castano was given visiting status for a period of three years. That hadn’t expired when the allegations surfaced,” said Carroll.

The Oratorian priest visited Room At The Inn in Charlotte on four occasions to celebrate Mass in Spanish and to assist in ministering to two Hispanic adult, female clients, said Cindy Brown, executive director of Room At The Inn. “Room At The Inn had no knowledge of the allegations against Father Castano nor have any allegations of misconduct on the part of Father Castano been made by Room At The Inn clients,” said Brown. “We are greatly saddened by this situation and offer our prayers for the alleged victim and family, for the accused, and for our Catholic community,” said Brown.

In the Diocese of Charlotte, the policy concerning ministry-related sexual misconduct by church personnel is constantly re-examined. “Our

diocesan policy mandates, that if an allegation of sexual abuse is made against a priest, he will be immediately removed from his ministry and given intensive examination and testing to determine his culpability,” said Bishop William G. Curlin, bishop of the 46-county Diocese of Charlotte. “We follow the mandates of the Gospel and the norms of church and civil law.”

“If found guilty of child abuse, the priest will be expelled from priestly ministry and never again allowed to exercise it. The diocese will always work in full cooperation with civil authorities in a case of child sexual abuse,” said Bishop Curlin.

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

6 The Catholic News & Herald

March 8, 2002

Around the Di-

OLR parishioner Romania’s plight featured at World Day of recognized for dedication,

By WILLARD ROBINSON Special to The Catholic News & Herald LEXINGTON — With book and quill in hand, a statue of St. Francis de Sales faced the congregation of Our Lady of the Rosary Church as the members of the parish congratulated Kathy Noor as the recipient of the parish’s 2002 Salesian Award. Noor was voted most deserving because she depicts the “spirit” of St. Francis de Sales, 16th and 17th-century priest and patron saint of authors and journalists.

Oblate Father Albert Gondek, pastor, presented the award at Mass Jan. 20. As a parish morale booster and in the spirit of true dedication to the Triad parish, Father Gondek created the idea of the annual award several years ago.

Every year, the presentation of the award coincides with St. Francis de Sales’ feast day on Jan. 24.

“Kathy is a virtuous, passionate and loving woman who has endured a lot of pain with one of her three sons passing away and her being involved recently in a serious car accident,” said Father Gondek. “We appreciate her kindness, gentleness and quiet patience because that is what St. Francis de Sales was noted for.”

Kathy Noor

By ELLEN NEERINCX SIGMON Correspondent HICKORY — When members of the local branch of Church Women United (CWU) found out that Romanian women would write the 2002 World Day of Prayer service, they knew they had a unique opportunity.

Hickory is the headquarters for the Little Samaritan Mission (LSM), a non-profit Christian organization that works to help people in the Republic of Moldova, a country that was part of Romania until it declared its independence in 1991. Hickory also has Romanian churches, and members of the Romanian Baptist Church agreed to help with the service.

It all came together at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church on the evening of March 1. Women from the Romanian Baptist Church brought food native to their country for the reception. Daniel Blaj, also from Romanian Baptist, led the singing during the service, and his niece, Maria Simonca, who graduated from Lenoir-Rhyne College and works with LSM, spoke on the theme for the service, “Challenged to Reconcile.”

During the service, attended by more than 120 people, CWU members spoke as the voices of Romania, telling about the political, economic, social and moral struggles of the citizens as they try to reconcile three different ethnic groups. The Romanian, German and Hungarian languages are all spoken in the country. The economy has collapsed, and many families face poverty and unemployment. The text of the service called for the churches of the country to help bring renewal to society.

“The need for reconciliation with God is greater than before,” said Simonca during her talk. “All other reconciliations stem from this one. Reconciliation with God gives us the love and understanding to accept persons of other races and backgrounds.

“The quiet voice of the Holy Spirit reminds us that these people were also created by God,” she said.

Photo by Ellen N. Sigmon

Maria Simonca of the Romanian Baptist Church spoke of her native Romania and the “Challenged to Reconcile” theme of the World Day of Prayer service at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church March 1.

Simonca, who was born in Romania and immigrated with her family to the United States in 1985, also talked about LSM and the work that its volunteers were doing to assist the people of Moldova. The organization currently operates 14 Christian radio stations in the country, and the broadcasts also reach parts of Romania and Ukraine.

It assists the state-run orphanages of Moldova, providing clothing, medicine, food and coal, and operates the LSM Children’s Home, which provides a Christian environment for about 40 children in the country.

Some of the children from this home are sent to live with families in the United States for two months to a year to give them the opportunity to study here.

LSM also sponsors a medical clinic in Moldova and finds doctors, nurses and dentists in the United States to

travel there and volunteer at the clinic for one to three weeks at a time. The organization operates soup kitchens for the elderly and helps to provide medicine for the hospitals and social service agencies in the country.

Participants in the service heard a doxology from the Romanian Orthodox liturgy entitled “Holy and Almighty God” with verses sung in Romanian, German, and English. Daniel Blaj sung the German verse, and Rick Setzer of New Hope Baptist Church sung the Romanian part.

Setzer said he had traveled to Romania five times and that the language had been easy for him to learn because of its similarities to Italian, which he knew from his studies in music.

Later in the service, Blaj and Setzer sang the hymn “Amazing Grace” together, and Blaj sang the Lord’s Prayer.

Blaj’s wife, Mielutsa Blaj, played the piano at the service.

Carole Marmorato, a member of St. Aloysius Catholic Church, serves as chair of the planning committee for the local CWU branch, and organizes the World Day of Prayer services in March and the World Community Day services in November of each year.

CWU is a women’s ecumenical movement that works to bring about peace and justice. More than 15 churches participate in CWU in the Hickory area.

March 8, 2002

From the

The Catholic News & Herald 7

Friends, co-workers remember woman of faith and

By ALESHA M. PRICE Staff Writer CHARLOTTE — Father Michael Clay, celebrant and homilist at Joanna Ninteman Case’s memorial service in January 2002, stood in front of over 400 people from all parts of the country and told the story of his last encounter with Case, a longtime friend and co-worker. The wife of 34 years, mother of three and grandmother of two had finally come to the end of her battle with cancer and wanted her memorial service to be a “homegoing,” a celebration of her life with personally selected liturgy and tributes from people who had touched her life. She had specifically planned her service and lightheartedly demanded that it unfold as scheduled. That is the woman with whom most had been familiar — a planner, a doer, a woman of action.

Father Clay, director of vocations for the Diocese of Raleigh, told the story of how he sat with Case for the last time before she succumbed to cancer the day after Christmas in 2001. They both knew that she was not going to be with her family and friends for much longer. As he talked to her, making final preparations for her memorial service and thinking about her last Christmas season, he wept. She wiped his eyes and made the sign of the cross on her forehead and his and said, “this is holy water.”

“Even in the midst of her pain, her sense of faith was so strong, and her abiding belief in the power of symbols did not wane,” said Father Clay.

They met several years ago through their work with the Washington, D.C.-based North American Forum on the Catechu-

her niche. She taught for three years menate (the Forum), and they became fast in Catholic schools in Houston, Texas, friends while traveling through rural areas of and moved to Charlotte, where she the country accomplishing the main goal of taught religion at the Forum — instructCharlotte Catholic ing parish catechetiHigh School (CCHS) cal leaders and teachfor 20 years. Case ers about the Rite was also the direcof Christian Initiator of RCIA at St. tion of Adults (RCIA) Patrick Cathedral for through information many years. sessions. It was one Director of of Case’s passions to Religious Educaensure that people tion Connie Millinationwide, especially gan, from St. John in small towns, were Neumann Church in informed about how Charlotte, was asked to bring new candito speak at Case’s dates into the Catholic memorial service.

Church in a culturally She first became acdiverse and sensitive quainted with her manner. longtime friend when She worked tireJoanna Ninteman Case Case was teaching at lessly, even in the CCHS. She rememmidst of her illness, bers a woman who traveling to different was knowledgeable and intelligent, places as a coordinator and team memand she became closer to Case through ber. She also served as a Forum board their affiliation with the Loyola Instimember, helping to map out a strategy tute of Ministry Extension program for teachers to impart on adults wish(LIMEX), an extension learning and ing to become Catholic. small group sharing program for those Being a cradle Catholic from Caliwho wish to earn a master’s degree fornia via Massachusetts, she had alor certificate in religious education or ways had a connection to God through pastoral studies from Loyola Universiher faith and wished to share that with ty of New Orleans. Case played a large others through ministry. Teaching role in bringing the ministry program was her first love, and after a few years to the diocese and served as the diocof public school work, she gravitated esan LIMEX liaison after earning her toward Catholic education and found master’s degree in religious education from the program.

“She was the most fair person I have ever known and would accept anyone for who they were and would call them to be all they could be,” said Milligan, who was also a member of their weekly Bible study group. “She was a close friend of mine, and I could share with her very honestly. The presence of God in her life was very real, and she was a wonderful inspiration for all of us.”

Her educational and catechetical

work in Charlotte and her serving as the diocesan RCIA Commission co-chair came to the attention of the Forum. She was asked to become involved on a national level, and like other things in her life, she dedicated herself wholeheartedly to the Forum’s mission.

“Joanna was the coordinator at many institutes and was also a team member. She was very concerned about initiation in a rural context. She helped to implement RCIA in parishes where there was no program before,” said Sheila O’Dea, associate director of the Forum. “She was a woman of tremendous passion and very deep faith.

She was a skilled catechist, which was evident in her work with us.”

After her retirement from teaching, a lump in her neck sent her to the doctor where Case was diagnosed with a form of lymphoma over four years ago. She was knocked off of course but did not falter; she did not slow down. Her prayer life took over, and she pressed forward.

“For Joanna, the paschal mystery of our Lord’s dying and rising was central. It was what she lived for, in and through. She talked about this great mystery with feeling and sometimes with humor,” said Jim Schellman, executive director of the Forum.

“Asked by a good friend in her final month about the paschal mystery, she responded, ‘It keeps on getting more mysterious’ — not for Joanna, sentimentality, or as she called it, ‘mushiness.’”

Her family and friends rallied around her in her last few months, and she made her final preparations for a memorial service where she wanted the liturgy and the Eucharist to be the focus. She had chosen the speakers for her memorial from all areas of her life to share their stories with those who had traveled, some from great distances, to St. Gabriel Church in Charlotte during the busy holiday season. Bishop William G. Curlin, presider at the memorial service, expressed his gratitude for Case’s devotion and her generous use of her talent in various ministries in the diocese.

“It (listening to the speakers) was like

8 The Catholic News & Herald

March 8, 2002

Diocesan Poli-

DIOCESE OF CHARLOTTE POLICY CONCERNING SEXUAL MISCONDUCT BY CHURCH PERSONNEL The purpose of this policy is to provide the Diocese of Charlotte with an official procedure for dealing with an allega-

tion of sexual misconduct.

Nothing in this policy is intended to prevent or relieve any person or group of persons, whether they be clergy, religious, employees or volunteers, from reporting any allegation of the sexual abuse of a minor to the proper civil authorities as mandated by law, unless to do so would violate the priest/penitent relationship.

The diocese will cooperate fully with any investigation by civil authorities and will thoroughly investigate the truth of allegations in order to protect the good name of the accused.

A common mission of all of us is to be holy. A holy people will not allow one of its members to be a victim of ministry-related sexual misconduct. It is with this in mind that the Diocese of Charlotte issues this policy that affirms all human suffering as well as the weaknesses and imperfections of human beings deserve a response that is rooted in love, concern and compassion.

The term ministry-related sexual misconduct as used throughout this policy refers to three related forms of misconduct. The first, which is sexual contact between church personnel and a child, is often called sexual abuse. The second, which is sexual contact between church personnel and another adult, is often called sexual misconduct. The third, which is unwanted sexual conduct or language, is often called sexual harassment. All three are addressed herein together because they each involve an abuse of power or authority.

The Diocese of Charlotte is committed to dealing with allegations of ministry-related sexual misconduct by church personnel. In order to achieve this commitment, the following policy and procedures have been adopted and are to be implemented with justice and equity. The policy sets forth a process of internal church grievance and is not intended to of Christian pastoral care for the alleged victim, his/her family, the person reporting the incident, the accused, and all other persons whose lives are touched by this incident.

7. It is the private responsibility of the accused to obtain his/her own legal counsel.

VII. PROCEDURES WHEN ALLEGATIONS ARE MADE AGAINST CLERGY, RELIGIOUS OR SEMINARIANS IN SERVICE TO THE DIOCESE 1. On receiving an allegation of ministry related sexual misconduct, the Chancery will notify the accused of the nature of the allegation and will conduct an immediate inquiry into the matter.

2. Following the initial inquiry, if it is determined that there is no reasonable cause to believe that the allegation has some basis, the accused will be notified of that finding and the inquiry will be closed.

3. Following the initial inquiry, if it is determined that there is reasonable cause to believe that the allegation has some basis, the accused will be placed on administrative leave and/or relieved of his/ her assignment. In the case of a diocesan priest or seminarian, he shall be assigned to a recognized treatment center or professional to receive appropriate evaluation and treatment. In the case of a permanent deacon, the decision as to assignment to a recognized treatment center or professional will be made by the Chancery. In the case of a religious, the decision as to assignment to a treatment center will be made by the religious superior.

4. Any administrative leave will be planned and circumstances determined in a way specific to each situation and to each individual in accord with canon 1722. In general, an administrative leave will be time limited, will allow for re-determination at the end of such time limit, will specify living arrangement, location, financial support, and will address treatment, conduct and aftercare.

5. Participation of an accused cleric in appropriate professional treatment/counseling is required as a matter of clerical obedience (c. 273).

Treatment/Counseling referral is for treatment, not punishment.

6. Future ministry will require in part a full sharing with the Chancery of all information developed in the course of treatment. Authorization from the accused is required in all cases to allow the treatment providers to communicate freely with the Chancery.

7. Following evaluation and treatment, if aftercare is prescribed, the accused will be assigned to a priestmonitor who will be a friend in very difficult circumstances and who will ensure that the aftercare program is being carried out.

8. Upon the conclusion of treatment and aftercare, a priest or permanent deacon may be assigned to a parochial ministry, non-parochial ministry, or be assisted to resign from all clerical ministry. If the accused does not express a desire to return to restricted ministry, or to live in a supervised setting, or to resign from ministry and

create any rights in any person, to obligate the diocese to act at any time or in any manner, or to establish any responsibility of the diocese. The Diocese of Charlotte will willingly cooperate with civil authorities as to the extent possible in all circumstances. In addition, there may be cases where the tenets of the Catholic religion, the prescriptions of canon law, or the greater good of all concerned require that action at variance with the provisions of this policy be taken; therefore, the Chancery reserves the right to interpret, modify or replace this policy as it deems necessary.

The Diocese of Charlotte presents these guidelines not because of past failures, not to cause alarm or fear, but rather to set forth a clear policy for the protection of our priests, seminarians, permanent deacons, religious and laity. The policies and procedures that we have adopted reflect our experience and the studies of many others and must always be construed in the light of the gospel and the principle “salus animarum suprema lex” — that is, the well being of the people is our primary obligation.

seek laicization, the Diocese of Charlotte may pursue appropriate courses of action under the Code of Canon Law. In certain cases, if it is determined that an accused priest will not be returned to ministry, the Chancery will offer him a program of retraining so that he can find employment and become self-supporting.

9. The Diocese of Charlotte is responsible for the diocesan salary of a priest, seminarian or permanent deacon undergoing treatment who has been relieved of his duties and responsibilities in accordance with this policy.

10. In the case of a priest, seminarian, permanent deacon, or religious from another diocese, the Chancery will immediately notify the appropriate bishop or superior of the allegation and of the actions that have been/will be taken by the Diocese of Charlotte.

11. In cases where the accusation is found to be true, the accused will be the primary person responsible for the payment of the victim’s therapy and attendant expenses, and will be required to reimburse the Diocese of Charlotte for all expenses that it incurred in connection with the matter.

12. It is the private responsibility of the accused to obtain his/her own legal counsel.

VIII. EDUCATION 1. The Diocese of Charlotte will periodically conduct continuing education sessions for clergy, religious, employees

and volunteers that will update them from viewpoints such as new scientific knowledge, church policy and canon law, civil law, moral theology, professional ethics, the pastoral care of victims and coping with the disclosure of misconduct by a colleague.

IX. MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS 1. The Chancery shall be responsible for all media contacts and will appoint a primary spokesperson to handle all media inquiries, all release of information, and all news conference arrangements.

X. SANCTIONS 1. Any church personnel who fails to comply with any of the provisions of this policy will be subject to such action(s) by the Diocese of Charlotte as it deems necessary, up to and including termination from any position with the Pastoral Center and/or any parish, mission, agency, school, institution or organization which is subject under canon or civil law to the administration, authority or governance of the Diocese of Charlotte.

2. Applicants or volunteers for positions with the Pastoral Center and/or any parish, mission, agency, school, institution or organization in the Diocese of Charlotte who fail to comply with the provisions of this policy may be denied or removed from any position that is subject under canon or civil law to the administration, authority or governance of the diocese.

March 8, 2002

I. DEFINITIONS 1. Sexual Abuse: The exploitation of a child for the sexual gratification of an adult.

Sexual abuse includes acts of incest, rape or sexual offense in any degree, sodomy and unnatural or perverted sexual practices, lewd or indecent acts or proposals, including exhibitionism, touching or fondling, permitting or encouraging a child to participate in acts of prostitution or pornography.

2. Child: Any person under the age of eighteen (18).

3. Sexual Misconduct: (a) The touching of a private part of another person. Private parts can include the genital or anal areas, the groin, the inner thigh, the buttocks, or the bosom of a female. Touching means either a single incident in which church personnel intentionally brings a part of his/ her body or another object into physical contact with a private part of another person, or repeated incidents of the same type, whether intentional or unintentional; (b) Any conduct and/or relationship of a sexual nature that can bring scandal.

4. Sexual Harassment: Unwanted attention, ogling, words, pictures, jokes or comments of a sexual nature that are directed towards an individual or in the general environment.

5. Church Personnel: Includes bishops, priests, deacons, religious, lay employees and volunteers involved in ministry or work for the Diocese of Charlotte.

6. Bishop: The canonically appointed Bishop of Charlotte, or, in the case of a vacancy, the Diocesan Administrator. For purposes of this policy, the Bishop or Diocesan Administrator may act through a designated representative.

7. Administrative Leave: For purposes of this policy, is defined as relieving the accused of assigned duties. The application varies depending on the employment, volunteer, or canonical status of the accused. Administrative leave does not infer guilt or innocence.

II. GENERAL PROVISIONS 1. Compassion requires that primary attention be given to the alleged victim of ministry related sexual misconduct, however, the alleged victim’s family will be contacted immediately by the Chancery with an offer of spiritual help and pastoral counseling. If the need for counseling or medical help for the alleged victim or his/ her family is indicated, this too shall be offered, but without admission of guilt or of any liability on the part of the Diocese of Charlotte.

2. Any accused person who is convicted of sexual abuse or sexual misconduct may not be permitted to return to ministry, employment, or volunteer status.

3. In instances where the accused is not convicted, not found liable by a court of competent jurisdiction, or does not admit to

Diocesan Polisexual abuse or misconduct, the Chancery will make a determination as to whether or not the accused will be returned to ministry, employment, or volunteer status.

4. The Diocese of Charlotte will not require an attempt at reconciliation between an abuser and victim. The involvement of any diocesan personnel in non-authorized reconciliation efforts will be treated as a violation of this policy.

5. No pastor, associate pastor or director of any diocesan rectory, institution or facility is permitted to grant full or part-time residence, or regular week-end ministry to an extern priest, a permanent deacon or a religious without prior approval from the Chancery. Short-term hospitality in conformity with these norms is at the discretion of the pastor or director. For other individuals, no-one may be extended hospitality as a resident, full or part-time, without prior approval from the Chancery.

6. An individual advisory board will be appointed by the Chancery. The responsibilities of the board will include the review of allegations of sexual abuse and all actions taken in response to those allegations, to ensure the integrity of the process, to offer advice concerning diocesan investigations, to advise as to the need for pastoral care for affected individuals, and to provide advice and recommendations to the Chancery regarding the implementation of any aspect of this policy. The board will also periodically evaluate the effectiveness of this policy and propose revisions if a need is indicated.

All members of the board are strictly bound by a Code of Ethics, which mandates strict confidentiality.

7. Because the stigma and shame associated with ministry related sexual misconduct might make the accused feel that he/she will be abandoned by the church, the diocese will do whatever it can to help the accused to experience its support. Whatever the outcome of an investigation or trial, the Diocese of Charlotte will be solicitous of the needs of the accused in order to see that he/she gets the personal support he/she needs during a very difficult time.

8. When an intervention causes the removal of clergy or religious from his/ her current parish assignment, the parish family that is left behind will be provided necessary care and direction and the Chancery.

9. When an intervention causes the removal of an employee or volunteer from a parish, mission, agency, school, institution or organization of the Diocese of Charlotte, the Chancery will provide necessary concern and direction to the remaining staff.

10. Allegations against the bishop are beyond the scope of this policy. Any such allegation shall be directed to the vicar general who will contact the papal nuncio and the appropriate civil authority.

III. APPLICATIONS - LAY PERSONNEL 1. During the application process, the diocesan form, Application for Lay Em-

ployment (Appendix I), must be completed and submitted by all lay applicants for any paid position in the Diocese of Charlotte.

2. During the application process, the diocesan forms, Application for Lay Employment (Appendix I), and Volunteer Profile (Appendix II) must be completed and submitted by all persons volunteering for positions that involve supervised or unsupervised ministry or work with children.

3. The original of all applications and profiles must be kept as part of the parish, agency, school, institution or department official personnel files.

4. Pastors and agency or department heads are responsible for ensuring that all employees and volunteers under their authority are given a copy of this policy. The original of the signed and dated Acknowledgment of Receipt of Sexual Misconduct Policy (Appendix III) must be sent to the Chancery within fourteen (14) calendar days of the date of hire or beginning volunteer service. Copies should be kept by the parish, agency, school, institution or department.

IV. APPLICATIONS CLERGY, SEMINARIANS AND RELIGIOUS 1. Before beginning any duty, all clergy seeking assignment to perform ministry in a stable, official capacity in the Diocese of Charlotte for more than thirty (30) days, must complete and submit the diocesan form, Application by a Priest/Deacon Seeking Assignment to The Diocese of Charlotte (Appendix IV).

2. All individuals seeking acceptance as a seminarian in the Diocese of Charlotte must complete and submit the diocesan form, Personal Questionnaire for Applicants for the Seminary (Appendix V).

3. All religious seeking assignment to perform ministry in a stable, official capacity in the Diocese of Charlotte for more than thirty (30) days, must complete and submit the diocesan form, Application by Members of Religious Institutes Seeking Assignment to The Diocese Of Charlotte (Appendix VI).

4. Secular clergy seeking an official assignment, and religious clergy who are not being postulated for assignment by a religious superior, may be required to undertake a psychological examination.

V. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS 1. Any person having actual knowledge of, or reasonable cause to suspect an incident of ministry related sexual misconduct by any church personnel of the Diocese of Charlotte is to immediately report the incident to the Chancery, unless to do so would violate the sacrament of penance. The Chancery will then report, or direct the reporting of the incident to the proper civil authority.

2. Any person making a report of alleged sexual misconduct will be asked to complete the diocesan form, Report of Suspected Ministry Related Sexual Misconduct by Church Person-

The Catholic News & Herald 9

nel (Appendix VII).

3. No action concerning an accused individual will be taken by the Diocese of Charlotte on the basis of anonymous or uncorroborated accusations. The accused will be informed of the anonymous complaint and of the disposition of the matter.

4. Any act of retaliation or discrimination against an individual who reports or complains of ministry related sexual misconduct is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated by the Diocese of Charlotte.

5. If sexual misconduct is selfreported, the Chancery will notify the other party(ies) involved of the nature of the report and will conduct an immediate investigation into the matter. If it is determined that there is no reasonable cause to believe that the report has some basis, the involved party(ies) will be notified of that finding and the matter will be closed. The Chancery will decide whether or not any action will be taken against the individual making the report. If it is determined that there is reasonable cause to believe that the report has some basis, the Chancery will decide the appropriate course of action to be taken. In either event, actions taken may include evaluation/treatment, counseling, reassignment, or resignation from ministry.

VI. PROCEDURES WHEN ALLEGATIONS ARE MADE AGAINST A LAY EMPLOYEE OR VOLUNTEER 1. On receiving an allegation of ministry related sexual misconduct, the Chancery will notify the accused of the nature of the allegation and will conduct an immediate inquiry into the matter.

2. Following the initial inquiry, if it is determined that there is no reasonable cause to believe that the allegation has some basis, the accused will be notified of that finding and the inquiry will be closed.

3. Following the initial inquiry, if it is determined that there is reasonable cause to believe that the allegation has some basis, a full diocesan investigation into the matter will be conducted. The accused will be placed on administrative leave (with pay for paid employees) pending the outcome of the full investigation.

4. If the full diocesan investigation finds that there is no reasonable cause to believe that the allegation is true, the matter will be closed and the accused will be restored to duty at his/her original, or a comparable position.

5. If the full diocesan investigation finds that there is reasonable cause to believe that the allegation is true, the accused will be notified of that finding and his/her employment or volunteer relationship with the Diocese of Charlotte will be terminated immediately. The diocese will encourage the individual to seek an appropriate treatment program.

6. No diocesan inquiry or investigation will interfere with any civil investigation, and will be conducted with a high level

1 0 The Catholic News & Herald Book Review

Books celebrate St. Patrick, Irish

Reviewed by Maureen E. Daly Catholic News Service In March, or any time of the year, Patrick is a fascinating character — one of the few saints who wrote his own life story. His “Confessio” is nearly 1,500 years old, but reading it you can hear the individual man’s distinctive voice as if he were alive today. In his own words he tells of his capture, enslavement, escape, conversion and mission to return to the Irish who held him captive.

“Patrick, the Pilgrim Apostle of Ireland” contains the full texts of Patrick’s writings in Latin with English translations and captivating commentary by Presentation Sister Maire B. de Paor, an Irish religious scholar. Also known as Sister Declan, she is the author of three previous books on Gaelic Christianity, including one on the 18th-century poet, mystic and catechist Tadhg Gaelach O’Suilleabhain. This book on Patrick was published in Ireland in 1998 and is newly available in a North American edition. It has the detail and documentation to satisfy scholars and a readable style that makes it accessible to anyone interested in Patrick and early Christianity.

In 1988, the publication of “The Celtic Vision” edited by Esther de Waal was one spark that ignited the current wildfire of interest in Celtic spirituality. A second edition has just been released. De Waal’s book is a selection of “Prayers, Blessings, Songs and Invocations from the Gaelic Tradition” taken from Alexander Carmichael’s six-volume collection of folklore. Carmichael lived from 1832 to 1912 and for six decades under arduous conditions he collected Gaelic oral tradition as a work of love and scholarship.

Reading these prayers alongside Sister de Paor’s book on Patrick, the reader can see literary and theological traditions carried across centuries.

March 8, 2002

Read-

St. Patrick drove slavery out of Ireland but Oliver Cromwell brought it back. When Cromwell invaded Ireland in 1648 the population of the island was estimated at 1.5 million. By Cromwell’s death in 1658, Ireland’s population had been reduced by two-thirds to 500,000.

It is a little-known fact that by 1656 more than 60,000 Irish had been sent as slaves to Barbados and other islands in the Caribbean.

“Testimony of an Irish Slave Girl” is a historical novel about a slave life in 17th-century Barbados. Kate McCafferty tells the story of a slave revolt in the words of an Irish prisoner testifying to her jailer. Irish slaves shared with those of African nations a life of degrading suffering, and united with them from time to time in unsuccessful revolts.

The novel is a window on a glittering tropical world of multicultural misery.

On a lighter note, “Danny Boy: The Legend of the Beloved Irish Ballad” is a pretty little fluff of a book — 141 pages of widely spaced type on the 155 words of the most popular Irish song of all time.

Written by Malachy McCourt, author of the best-seller “A Monk Swimming” and brother of best-selling writer Frank McCourt, the book has the ranging conversational tone of a buddy at a bar holding forth with an encyclopedia of anecdotes. Who knew there was so much to know? This book is a fine gift — if for no other reason than because it has the lyrics of this highly singable song, an unfailing tool for bringing tears to listeners’ eyes. In this uncertain world, “Danny Boy” is one thing you can count on.

Daly is book review coordinator for Catholic News Service.

Word to Life

Sunday Scripture Readings: March 10, Fourth Sunday of Lent Cycle A Readings: 1) 1 Samuel 16:1b, 6-7, 10-13a Psalm 23:1-6 2) Ephesians 5:8-14 3) Gospel: John 9:1-41

By JEAN DENTON Catholic News Service When a solar eclipse is forecast, the experts always warn us, “Do not look directly at the sun.” For years, I’d hear that and think: “Yeah, right! One of the most awesome sights in nature is appearing, and I’m going to go outside, turn my back on it and look into a shoebox!”

Well, one time I actually did.

It turned out that what was just as awesome as the eclipse was the fact that one could make a pinhole in a cardboard box, and the focused light would project, on the inside facing, an exact image of the eclipse occurring. With the shoebox device I was not only able to see the eclipse of the sun, I was able to experience a further phenomenon of light at work!

Today’s readings are full of the lesson about how we can miss the essence of a person — or an event — by focusing our “view” only on outward appearances.

In the Gospel, the blind man, was able to “see” Jesus’ awesome power by experiencing his healing, while the Pharisees were so caught up in Jesus’ apparent breaking of the law (not keeping the Sabbath) that they missed the essence — the experience — of God. Likewise, in observing the eclipse, if I had insisted on seeing a direct visual im-

age of the source of Earth’s light, I would have missed an experience of light working on Earth.

If I insist on seeing God through a visual or mental image or intellectual pursuit — my brain is smaller than a shoebox — then I will miss the essence of God working in my life and the lives of others. In the words of a country song, I’d be “lookin’ for love in all the wrong places.”

In the first reading, the Lord reminds Samuel that in searching for God’s chosen king he should avoid judging by appearances because the Lord “looks into the heart.”

In these Scriptures God calls us to look deeper, past our limiting expectations, for the essence of Jesus at work in the world. When we do, we will see, and like the blind man we will believe, because what we see will indeed be awesome. Then, while we may occasionally glance at the outward image, it will be the essence of Jesus we worship and follow and love.

QUESTIONS: When was a time when you were surprised by an unexpected experience of Jesus? What distractions blind you to the essence of God’s presence?

SCRIPTURE TO ILLUSTRATE: “I know this much: I was blind before; now I can see” (John 9:25b).

Weekly Scripture Scripture for the week of March 10 - March 16 Sunday (Fourth Sunday of Lent), 1 Samuel 16:1, 6-7, 10-13, Ephesians 5:8-14, John 9:1-41; Monday (Lenten Weekday), Isaiah 65:17-21, John 4:43-54; Tuesday (Lenten Weekday), Ezekiel 47:1-9, 12, John 5:1-3, 5-16; Wednesday (Lenten Weekday), Isaiah 49:8-15, John 5:17-30; Thursday (Lenten Weekday), Exodus 32:7-14, John 5:31-47; Friday (Lenten Weekday), Wisdom 2:1a, 12-22, John 7:1-2, 10, 25-30; Saturday (Lenten Weekday), Jeremiah 11:18-20, John 7:40-53 Scripture for the week of March 17 - March 23 Sunday (Fifth Sunday of Lent), Ezekiel 37:12-14, Romans 8:8-11, John 11:1-45; Monday (Lenten Weekday), Daniel 13:1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62, John 8:1-11; Tuesday (St. Joseph, Husband of Mary), 2 Samuel 7:4-5, 12-14, 16, Romans 4:13, 16-18, 22, Matthew 1:16, 18-21, 24; Wednesday (Lenten Weekday), Daniel 3:14-20, 91-92, 95, John 8:31-42; Thursday (Lenten Weekday), Genesis 17:3-9, John 8:51-59; Friday (Lenten Weekday), Jeremiah 20:10-13, John 10:31-42; Saturday (Lenten Weekday), Ezekiel 37:21-28, John 11:45-57

March 8, 2002

Video Review

By Catholic News Service NEW YORK (CNS) — The following are home videocassette reviews from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Office for Film and Broadcasting. Each videocassette is available on VHS format.

Theatrical movies on video have a U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification and Motion Picture Association of America rating. All reviews indicate the appropriate age group for the video audience.

“Don’t Say a Word” (2001) Faulty thriller in which a New York psychiatrist (Michael Douglas) races against time to extract a mysterious code from a nearly catatonic young woman (Brittany Murphy) that will lead the ruthless kidnappers of his 8-year-old daughter (Skye McCole Bartusiak) to a valuable hidden gem. Though the frantic pace in director Gary Fleder’s film heightens suspense, narrative inconsistencies and shaky characterizations produce a frustrating package.

Intermittent violence with a few gruesome images, a fleeting sexual reference and sporadic rough language. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification is A-IV — adults, with reservations. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R — restricted. (Fox Home Video) “The In-Laws” (1979) Prominent New York dentist (Alan Arkin) and a seedy CIA agent (Peter Falk) are brought together when their children are engaged, and the hapless dentist finds himself unexpectedly plunged into a wild adventure in a corrupt Central American dictatorship. Directed by Arthur Hiller, the pairing of Arkin and Falk is bright and the comedy frequently hilarious. Some comic violence and a few mild vulgarities.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification is A-II — adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG — parental guidance suggested. (Warner Home Video) “The Musketeer” (2001) Failed adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’ classic focuses on the young swordsman D’Artagnan (Justin Chambers) as he attempts to save the 17th-century French throne from the schemes of Cardinal Richelieu (Stephen Rea) and his brutish agent Febre (Tim Roth). Director Peter Hyams’ watered-down story pathetically limps along, interrupted occasionally by an imaginatively choreographed fighting sequence. Several scenes of mean actionviolence and some sexual innuendo. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops clas-

Entertainsification is A-III — adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 — parents are strongly cautioned.

Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Universal) “O” (2001) Sordid tale of jealousy set in a tony prep school in which a black basketball player (Mekhi Phifer) is convinced by his envious friend (Josh Hartnett) that his girlfriend (Julia Stiles) is cheating on him, leading the hoop star to make some desperate choices. Director Tim Blake Nelson’s brutal modernization of Shakespeare’s classic “Othello” is involving, but the inescapable presentation of remorseless teen killings leaves the senses numb.

Vicious, explicit images of teen violence, including rape and suicide, some sexual situations, a few scenes of drug abuse and recurring rough language and profanity.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification is O — morally offensive.

The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R — restricted. (Lions Gate) “Session 9” (2001) Frightening thriller in which an asbestos removal crew (including David Caruso and Peter Mullan) working in an abandoned insane asylum uncovers the building’s mysterious past while one of the workers loses his mind. Director Brad Anderson builds tension with deft editing as suspicion is cast on each character, yet one-note characterizations diminish the effect. Brief but strong violence with some gory images, fleeting drug use and recurring rough language with profanity. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification is A-IV — adults, with reservations. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R — restricted. (USA) “Soul Survivors” (2001) Listless horror film in which a coed (Melissa Sagemiller) mourning the carwreck death of her boyfriend is beset by hallucinations and becomes paranoid when her friends act suspiciously. Writer-director Steve Carpenter’s formula horror film employs familiar cliches up to a twist ending that too patly resolves everything. Implied sexual encounters, brief violence and substance abuse. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification is A-III — adults.

The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 — parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Artisan) “The Taste of Others” (2001) Witty French comedy-drama in which a successful but bored businessman

The Catholic News & Herald 11

CNS photo from Paramount Pictures

Scene from the movie “We Were Soldiers” Chris Klein and Mel Gibson star in the dramatic film “We Were Soldiers.”

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification is A-IV — adults, with reservations. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R — restricted.

Movie Capsules

By Catholic News Service NEW YORK (CNS) — Following are capsule reviews of movies recently reviewed by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Office for Film and Broadcasting.

“40 Days and 40 Nights” (Miramax) Crude romantic comedy about a young bachelor (Josh Hartnett) who swears off sex for Lent after his girlfriend (Vinessa Shaw) breaks up with him, but complications ensue as soon as he meets the girl (Shannyn Sossamon) of his dreams. Snickering at the Catholic Church’s teaching on premarital sex, director Michael Lehmann’s one-joke film exploits the holy season of Lent as a cynical pretext for abstinence. Misuse of the sacrament of penance, sexual encounters, recurring nudity, intermittent rough language, crass sexual expressions and profanity. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification is O — morally offensive. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R — restricted.

“Harrison’s Flowers” (Universal Focus) Intense drama set in 1991 during the Serbian-Croatian conflict where the determined wife (Andie MacDowell) of a photojournalist (David Strathairn) presumed dead travels to the war-torn area to bring back the husband she believes is still alive. Using the backdrop of fierce political strife, director Elie Chouraqui depicts ethnic cleansing in agonizing terms but the central story of a wife whose fear is overshadowed by love fails to resonate as powerfully as it should.

Pervasive and harrowing war violence with gruesome images, some drug use and recurring rough language. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification is A-IV — adults, with reservations. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R — restricted.

“Trouble Every Day” (Lot 47) Sick sexual thriller about an Ameri-

can (Vincent Gallo) honeymooning in Paris and searching for a renegade French doctor (Alex Descas) who may have a cure for a disturbing sexual deviancy affecting the American and the doctor’s wife (Beatrice Dalle). Director Claire Denis’ repulsive film interweaves two stories about cannibalistic sex using a minimum of dialogue and a maximum of grisly visuals, which result in a drawn-out, muddled narrative. Several explicit sex scenes including masturbation, vicious sexual violence with much gore, recurring frontal nudity and a few instances of crass language. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification is O — morally offensive. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America.

“We Were Soldiers” (Paramount) Powerful Vietnam War drama about the first battle between American troops, led by fatherly Lt. Col. Harold G. Moore (Mel Gibson), and the Viet Cong enemy. Despite slim characterizations and a few clichés, writer-director Randall Wallace’s harrowing true story depicts war with raw, graphic imagery that underscores the wrenching loss of human life as it touches briefly upon the formidable struggle to reconcile Christianity and warfare. Constant war violence with many bloody, chilling images and some rough language with profanity. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification is A-IV — adults, with reservations. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R — restricted.

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March 8, 2002

Editorials & Col-

Letter from the Bishop

The Pope Speaks Dear Brothers and Sisters in our diocese,

POPE JOHN PAUL II

At apartment window, pope greets faithful, thanks them for prayers

By CINDY WOODEN Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope John Paul II greeted thousands of visitors March 6 and thanked them for their prayers “for my quick recovery.”

Speaking from his apartment window overlooking St. Peter’s Square, the pope made no mention of the pain in his right knee caused by arthrosis, which forced him to skip that day’s weekly general audience and to cancel several parish visits.

When he came to his window, the pope summarized in two sentences the talk he had prepared for the audience.

Psalm 65, he said, “invites us not to stop with what the world promises, but rather to consider what the Creator promises the world.”

“It is with this sentiment that I exhort you to trust always in divine providence, the source of peace and serenity,” the pope said, before reciting the Lord’s Prayer with his visitors.

The visitors had gathered earlier in the audience hall, where Vatican officials explained in seven languages that the pope, “following the advice of his personal physician,” would not participate in the audience, but “is following our gathering on television.”

The announcement offered some consolation to members of the St. Jerome Chorale from Largo, Fla., which had prepared songs to sing for the pope at the audience.

“We’re sure he heard us,” choir members said.

A pilgrimage from St. Cecilia’s Parish in the Harlem neighborhood of New York arrived at the audience hall at 9 a.m. to get good seats for the 10:30 audience.

“We were warned; they told us he would be there if he could,” said Gennie Bowers, a member of the pilgrimage.

Although they had heard on television that the pope would not preside over the audience, several hundred pilgrims from the Diocese of Vallo della Lucania in southern Italy still boarded buses at 4 a.m. for their trip to Rome.

“The idea was to see the pope, but these things happen,” said Tiziana Cardullo, a member of the group.

The teaching Pope John Paul had prepared for the audience focused on God’s readiness to forgive sins and his life-giving reign over all creation.

The two themes found in Psalm 65 are inseparable, the pope wrote.

“In the Bible, creation is the home of humanity, and sin is an attack on the order and perfection of the world. Conversion and pardon, therefore, restore integrity and harmony to the cosmos,” the pope said.

The psalm’s image of God calming the roaring of the seas and the tumult of his people is an affirmation of God’s absolute power, he said.

“God, who cancels the chaos and evil of the world and of history, can defeat and forgive the wickedness and sin” of the contrite, the pope wrote.

The psalm’s spring-like descriptions of the renewal of creation, he said, follow naturally from its reflection on forgiveness.

“Like the earth rising again in the spring through the action of the Creator, so men and women rise from their sin through the action of the Redeemer,” the pope wrote.

I have met many, many wonderful priests during my life. I remember with special fondness the elderly priest who baptized me, heard my first confession and gave me first Holy Communion. He was much loved by his parishioners. Throughout my school years (including college) priests were an important part of my life. Their good example helped me to discern a call to serve the Lord as a priest.

Recent tragic reports of priests, accused of pedophilia have proven very painful to priests who faithfully spend their lives in your service. While they know that no one is without faults, such evil is incomprehensible to good and devoted priests. Sadly, the environment created by such scandals has cast aspersions upon all good priests. For some, the credibility of all priests has been called into question.

Last week, I wrote a letter to my brother priests, the priests of this diocese. To them I shared my prayers that they do not become discouraged or disheartened by news reports regarding allegations of child abuse by priests.

There is no excuse for the terrible crime of child abuse. A policy of Zero Tolerance for Child Sex Abuse applies to all clergy, religious, and laity who work in the Diocese of Charlotte. This policy, constantly subject to re-examination, mandates that any church personnel (clergy and laity), if found guilty of child abuse, be removed from their ministry and never again be allowed to exercise ministry in this diocese.

We regularly publish the Policy of the Diocese

Economy of Faith GLENMARY FATHER JOHN S. RAUSCH Guest columnist

powerlessness marginalizes the poor everywhere. Decisions made over cocktails at the Waldorf-Astoria can have dramatic effects on the marginalized of Appalachia or Brazil.

But, alternative development efforts — those that promote open dialogue, democratic decision-making and inclusion of the people affected — offer a process to create a different world.

An hour’s bus ride from Porto Alegre, a cooperative organized by the Movement of the Landless provided 5,400 fertile acres of unused land for 100 families to farm together and share the proceeds. Working together nobody gets rich, but nobody goes hungry. The Movement of the Landless, having settled over 300,000 families on millions of acres of land, represents land redistribution efforts long supported by the Catholic church. These utilize the capabilities of the landless and affirm the dignity of the poor.

Although many throughout the world see the U.S. as promoting structures that keep people poor, Jerry responds, “Trade policies do not always reflect the will of the people.”

At the same time he recognizes U.S. dominance in foreign affairs: “As citizens and consumers, we have a serious responsibility to shape those structures and policies that affect people around the world.”

Bottom line: another world is possible, if the priorities favor the poor and include them in the process.

THE MOST REV. WILLIAM G. CURLIN Bishop of Charlotte of Charlotte Concerning Ministry-Related Sexual Misconduct by Church Personnel. This week, The Catholic News & Herald again carries the diocesan policy.

In my first parish assignment, the pastor taught his young assistants by word and example that priests are called to imitate Jesus, “who came to serve and not be served.” His zeal for souls was rooted in his daily holy hour before the Blessed Sacrament.

When he died, the entire parish mourned the loss of a much-loved father. St. Paul, priests know that Christ must always remain the center of their life and ministry.

On Tuesday during Holy Week, my brother priests and I will gather at the Cathedral of St. Patrick to consecrate the Holy Oils and to publicly renew our commitment to God and to you in priestly ministry. I cordially invite you to join with us on this special occasion. Your presence will be a visible sign of appreciation for priests who faithfully and devotedly spend their lives in your service. Whether you are able to attend this Chrism Mass or not, please take the time to express to your parish priests a word of gratitude for their devoted ministry. Please continue to pray for them.

Devotedly and prayerfully in the Lord, Another world is possible A couple of my friends working in community ministry traveled to Brazil to attend the World Social Forum.

Porto Alegre, the host city, lies geographically thousands of miles from New York, but ideologically millions of miles from Wall Street. Though the gathering attracted more than 50,000 community people from around the world, it received scant mention in the American press. The World Economic Forum, convening at the same time in New York, attracted movers and shakers from world governments and transnational corporations, paying $25,000 each, and got the spotlight.

The WEF, founded in 1971 by a Swiss business professor to discuss the challenges of world trade, drew 3,000 invited delegates to the Waldorf-Astoria. With instability from terrorism and a slowing world economy, the conference theme painted a picture one shade lighter than gloom: “Leadership in Fragile Times.” The philosophy of globalization that emphasizes deregulation, laissez faire government, free markets and free trade, high technology plus corporate efficiency and profitability has delivered a report card of exaggerated winners and losers.

For example, the richest fifth of the world’s population now consumes 86 percent of all goods and services, while the poorest fifth receives just over 1 percent. Between 1994 and 1998, the world’s 200 richest people increased their wealth from $40 billion to over $1 trillion with the three richest people holding assets greater than the combined GNP of the 48 least developed countries. And, the life expectancy in these least developed countries remains 25 years less than in industrialized nations.

A continent away in Brazil, the WSF marketed itself as a counter-conference “building a planetary society centered on the human person.” The conference theme: “Another World Is Possible.”

“Our struggles are the same with people around the world,” said Jerry Hardt, a participant from Salyersville, Ky. “The issues are similar: healthcare, living wages, a clean environment.” Jerry spoke as a resident of Appalachia where a celebrated land study showed that 72 percent of the surface land and 80 percent of the mineral rights in the survey were absentee-owned and predominately by large corporations.

While poverty in the U.S. and the rest of the world differs by material degree, the sense of vulnerability and

March 8, 2002

Editorials & Col-

Light One Candle MSGR. JIM LISANTE Guest Columnist

make sense, it hurts too much. You can be a person of deep faith, but when the heart is broken, no spiritual bromides will glue it back together.

On the Christopher Closeup television program, I interviewed New York City’s then-Fire Commissioner Thomas Von Essen. He’s the good soul who lost over three hundred of his best firefighters at the World Trade Center on September 11th. Every day for months, he’d attended funerals and memorial services. Sometimes, three or four a day. Most of those who died in the prime of their lives left behind parents, spouses, children, friends, co-workers and neighbors, who would suffer pain that is almost more than a heart can bear.

I asked the commissioner how he was able to offer help or emotional comfort. He told me something useful: no words are ever enough. Nothing you say can eliminate the hurt. Instead, you just have to be there with the people who are in pain. Love them, embrace them, cry with them and let them know you truly care. The salve you offer isn’t in words, it’s in presence, touch and compassion.

No one likes attending services for the dead. It’s a responsibility made more difficult by our fear of what we can say to give comfort. But you can make an enormous difference for the bereaved just in being there. We have no greater gift than our caring and empathetic presence. Just go. That’s enough.

country for 32 years. Individual parishes have no authority to reintroduce the practice on their own.

Following proper Mass procedures Q. My wife is Catholic, and I was raised Protestant.

Since our marriage six years ago, we have attended Mass together. Neither she nor I, however, understand what I and others who are not Catholic should do or not do at Mass. I know we should not receive Communion; but how about bowing or genuflecting before entering the pew? Can we go forward at Communion time with others who cross their arms for a blessing? May we stand for the Gospel, for example? And give the sign of peace? Make the sign of the cross at the sprinkling of holy water? I’m sure these are trivial questions, but I know others in the parish are as confused as I am. (Ohio) A. They’re not at all trivial or unimportant questions.

My mail regularly brings the same questions from other areas as well.

Most Catholics, it seems to me, have no idea how uncertain and confused those not of our faith can be about how to act at Mass and other ceremonies, even after years of being there week after week. The short and simple answer is that people who are not Catholic are welcome, even invited, to do everything Catholics do, except, as you say, receive Communion.

Participate in the prayers, sing, make the sign of the cross, bow or genuflect as you wish. In fact, the liturgy should become a more genuine act of worship for you if you participate this way, as long as you feel comfortable doing so and if your actions reflect your interior attitude of prayer and devotion with the people worshiping alongside you.

It would perhaps not be a bad idea for parishes to place an occasional note in the bulletin on these matters to put you and others like you more at ease.

A free brochure describing basic Catholic prayers, beliefs and moral precepts is available by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to Father John Dietzen, Box 325, Peoria, IL 61651.

It’s Not What You Say There’s probably no more difficult ministerial challenge than the funeral of a child. Parents are faced with a nearly insurmountable pain because the normal assumption is that their children will survive them.

When the shockingly unexpected occurs, parents’ lives are upended. This wasn’t supposed to happen. In meeting with the parents, as well as speaking at the wake and funeral, clergy often wonder: “What can I possibly say to these good folks? How can I offer any real comfort or solace?” In the quest to find the proper words, some ministers do very well.

I’ve seen any number of colleagues give insight into the meaning of eternal life or articulate a personal vision of the deceased child that’s warm, loving and wise. Other times, I’ve seen what trying too hard can do. I recall one terribly sad funeral for a teenager. He’d been driving his car in the left lane of a highway on his way to school. Another driver, in the opposite lane of traffic, lost control of her car which literally flew over the divider, squarely hitting the young man’s car. He died immediately.

The funeral Mass for this well-liked young man was overflowing. All present wanted to support his parents, brothers and sisters. I could see in the face of the priest celebrating the Mass a tension, a nervousness that was palpable. He wanted to do this right, to say the perfect words of comfort, to give some meaning to this seemingly meaningless horror. For most of his sermon, he was fine.

He recounted much about the young man’s life, lending the talk a personal flavor that caused people to smile or cry. But he also knew that the random quality of the student’s death was confusing and painful. So the priest decided to focus on the question of “why?” a little too colorfully, asking “Haven’t you sometimes noticed a dog or cat killed on the road and wondered why? Why does God allow such bad things to happen to these innocent creatures?”

Now, here we were at the funeral of a vibrant young man. We didn’t need the image of dead pets to give us perspective about the loss of a much-loved person. You could immediately see a look on the faces of those attending which told you the priest blew it. He overreached. He used an illustration that only distracted.

It was, for me, a classic case of trying too hard to find perfect words, a struggle that rarely ends in success. That’s because there are no words that make sense of it all. It can’t

Question Corner FATHER JOHN DIETZEN CNS Columnist

The practice of covering church crosses and statues during Lent Q. Each year our parish staff has a discussion about whether the crosses and statues in church should be covered during Lent.

Our pastor and liturgy coordinator say no. Yet we regularly see it still done in other parishes. Is there a rule any more or is it up to each parish? (Florida) A. Before 1970, crosses and other images in Catholic churches traditionally were covered with purple veils during the final two weeks of Lent, during what was then called Passiontide.

Since the publication of the revised missal in 1970, however, the regulation is that crosses may be covered “if the episcopal conference decides” to do so.

In that case images are covered during the final two weeks until the celebration of the Lord’s passion on Good Friday (for crosses) or until the beginning of the Easter Vigil (for other images).

These rubrics are found at the end of the Mass for Saturday of the Fourth Week of Lent and were repeated by the Vatican worship congregation in 1988.

Since the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops never has voted to continue the rubric of covering images, the practice has not been permitted in this

The Catholic News & Herald 13

Work Matters JOANITA M. NELLENBACH Guest Columnist Save something for yourself I knew a man who was about to retire from the organization he’d worked for all his adult life — and he was scared, but not about money. He and his wife would have a comfortable retirement.

The problem was that he didn’t know what he was going to do with himself. He had devoted himself to every aspect of the organization.

Now, he was at mandatory retirement age, and his focus was about to disappear.

It’s a situation many of us face. We love our jobs. Maybe we’re deeply involved in some cause that consumes every spare moment, or we volunteer for every committee and ministry at church.

John O’Donohue, an Irish Catholic priest, calls that total immersion the “trap of false belonging.”

Yes, it is important to work hard, and your church and local civic organizations always need volunteers. What’s also crucial is to save something for yourself, something that doesn’t have anything to do with your job or your cause, but with your soul.

“Too many people,” O’Donohue says, “belong too naively to the system in which they are involved. When they are suddenly laid off, or the system collapses, or someone else is promoted, they feel broken, wounded, and demeaned” [Anam Cara: A Book of Celtic Wisdom, Cliff Street Books, HarperCollins Publishers, 1997].

What’s needed is balance.

“You should never belong fully to something that is outside yourself,” O’Donohue writes. “It is very important to find a balance in your belonging. People frequently need to belong to an external system because they are afraid to belong to their own lives. ... As the New Testament says, where your treasure is, there is your heart also.”

Don’t make anything the be-all and endall of your existence. Scott Ryan, for instance, loved his financial-consultant job, but took a three-month leave of absence in 2000 to work with Geekcorps, a Peace Corps-like outfit that brings tech savvy to developing countries. Ryan used his e-commerce know-how to help a group in Accra, Ghana, set up a Web site. Geekcorps provided Ryan with bed, board, transport and a $500 stipend. His company encouraged his endeavor but didn’t pay him during his leave.

Ryan’s effort was laudable, you say, but how many of us can do what he did? Well, an article in Fortune magazine [“Geeks on do-good rampage,” July 9, 2001] reports that the head of Geekcorps “received 700 applications for 14 openings for the most recent Geekcorps class.”

You may not be able to take three months off at no pay, but you can find ways to balance your life, to diversify your interests. Cut back on your work to volunteer a few hours a week. How about dropping one church committee to spend more time with your family?

Can you take a few hours a week to spend more time with yourself ? That scares people who need the TV on in the background because they can’t stand silence, but silence lets us hear fresh messages. Remember Elijah in 1 Kings 19:11-12? God wasn’t in the big events — the high wind, the earthquake and the fire. God

1 4 The Catholic News & Herald

Around the Di-

Sister of Mercy honored for lifetime dedication to CHARLOTTE — Mercy Sister Mary Thomas Burke, Ph.D., was recently honored with the 2002 Echo Award Against Indifference from the Charlotte-based Echo Foundation.

Sister Mary, 73, a UNC-Charlotte professor of counselor education in the department of counseling and special education, accepted the award before approximately 700 guests at the 3rd Annual Echo Foundation Award Dinner in Founders Hall at Bank of America Feb. 19. Speakers at the dinner included noted author and poet Maya Angelou and Nobel Laureate for Literature Wole Soyinka of Nigeria.

“The Echo Foundation brings worldrenowned humanitarians to Charlotte to deliver messages that galvanize souls to action on behalf of humankind,” according to the Echo Foundation Web site. This is to build a city that embraces racial diversity, culture and tolerance.

The Echo Award Against Indifference is given to a member of the Mecklenburg County community who exemplifies the Echo Foundation’s dedication to promoting dignity, justice and moral courage through positive, effective action for humankind.

“Sister Mary Thomas Burke has long been a voice for compassion and justice in the Charlotte community by seeking out and ministering to those in need,” said Joan Zimmerman, Echo board of trustee chairperson, in a press release statement.

Sister Mary’s work helped launch numerous community outreach programs, including The Metrolina AIDS Project, The Relatives and Open House. She has also served in various leadership capacities for Catherine’s House, YWCA of Central Carolina, Ready to Learn for WTVI 42, Belmont Abbey College, Mecklenburg Min-

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Child Caregiver: Seeking experienced, reliable person to take care of our infant in our home. Part time in Sylva, NC. 828-631-2308.

Director of Faith Formation: Growing parish of 1,200 families seeks enthusiastic and knowledgeable Catholic as full time Faith Formation Director. Minimum of B. A. in related field of study and Parish/Faith Formation experience. Position requires strong leadership, organizational, interper-

istries, Child Care Resources, North Carolina Cancer Society and many others.

A native of Ireland, Sister Mary came to the area to attend Sacred Heart College in Belmont, earning an undergraduate degree in social science and mathematics in 1958. She also earned a master’s in mathematics from John Carroll University in 1962 and in history from Georgetown University in 1965, and a doctorate in counseling from UNC-Chapel Hill in 1968.

During the 1960s, Sister Mary served several roles at Sacred Heart including humanities instructor, academic dean and chair of the education department before leaving in 1970 to establish the counseling department at UNC-Charlotte.

Under her guidance, the department has become one of the university’s most respected academic areas.

Sister Mary has also written or co-written more than 140 professional papers and journal articles, and given some 125 presentations on varied topics. She has acted as a consultant to more than 40 organizations on a wide range of human relations subjects.

The Echo Award is the 28th individual honor that Sister Mary has received for her efforts. Other honors include: the Francis J. Beatty Humanitarian Award from Catholic Social Services (1997); WBT-AM’s Woman of the Year Award (1979); and the B’nai B’rith Anti-Defamation Award (1978).

“Sister Mary Thomas’ work reinforces The Echo Foundation’s message that one person’s actions can make a difference for many,” said Zimmerman.

The past Echo Award Against Indifference recipients are Bishop George E. Battle, Jr. of A.M.E. Zion Church (2001) and Joe Martin of NationsBank (2000).

sonal, and basic computer skills. Responsibilities include, but not limited to: Pre-K through 5th Grade Faith Formation, R.C.I.A., and Adult Education. Salary and benefits commensurate with experience e. Start July 1, 2002. Send resume, salary expectations, and three (3) references to: DFF Search, Attn: Wally Haarsgaard, Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, 605 Barbee Ave., High Point, NC, 27262. Visit our website at www.ihmchurch.org.

Elementary Principal: The Archdiocese of Atlanta anticipates openings for the position of elementary school principal effective July 1, 2002. Qualified candidates may send a letter of interest and current resume to: Superintendent of Schools, 680 W. Peachtree St., NW, Atlanta, GA 30308.

Teachers: Our Lady of Mercy Catholic High School, located in Fairburn, Georgia, is seeking teachers in all disciplines for the 2002-2003 school year. Mercy offers an excellent teaching environment and well as competitive salary

Catherine’s House, from page 1

St. Joseph of the Hills Church in Eden.

In order to be considered for residence at Catherine’s House, women must be homeless with no money, be unemployed and be free of illegal drugs and alcohol. “Many have been in abusive situations or through a divorce where they have lost everything,” said Sister Bernadette.

Residents must maintain stable mental health, be capable of participating in a community living arrangement, adhere to the rules and policies of Catherine’s House and demonstrate their commitment to consistently working toward meeting individual program goals during residency.

All residents meet with a case manager who helps them establish their goals, which are reviewed weekly. The Stepping Stones to Success program consists of six distinct components that are woven into the residents’ goals: self sufficiency; psychological/ social needs; securing employment; health services; educational goals; and securing permanent housing.

Residents also attend sessions with counselors and family therapists, and attend wellness, parenting skills, budgeting and nutrition programs.

Caseworkers assist them in setting up bank accounts. Residents who have not earned their high school diploma enroll in the GED program.

While living at Catherine’s House, residents are responsible for assisting with the care of the house. They do their own cooking and clean up.

“We’re preparing them for the future by teaching them the importance of caring for their home,” said Sister Bernadette. “But it is not always easy.

Some are belligerent because they have to live under rules and regulations. Others are so grateful for a roof over their head, a bed and being able to cook for themselves. For many, it is only after they leave that they realize what Catherine’s House is really all about and how we reached out to help them in their greatest time of need.”

The residents interact by playing games and enjoying passes to the YMCA, as well as special outings such as the circus, Hornets games, and tickets for the Nutcracker, which are provided by the Charlotte Authority.

March 8, 2002

Soon, residents will have the option of attending a weekly Bible sharing class.

But it is the personal touch that makes Catherine’s House so special for many.

“It is important for me to get to know the women and children here, calling them by name,” said Sister Bernadette. “A smile and greeting lights up their day and life and mine as well when I see their response.”

Sister Bernadette is grateful she chose to come to Catherine’s House. “...It is truly the work of our foundress Catherine McAuley. Every day we are walking in her footsteps,” said Sister Bernadette. “If she were here today, she would have the same passion for the underprivileged and underserved in our community — these very vulnerable women and children in today’s society.

“We have no idea what it must feel like to be homeless,” she added.

“When I see a three-day-old baby beginning his or her life in a homeless atmosphere, it breaks my heart. It is so rewarding to know that we are helping these women and their families.”

“It’s amazing to work here,” said Mercy Sister Maureen Dees, who serves as the receptionist. “I enjoy being able to talk to the women and children. It’s a joy to greet them and make them feel loved. A smile goes a long way.”

“We have wonderful success stories like the mother, daughter and grandson who fled from New Mexico because of family violence,” said Sister Bernadette. “With relatives in the area, they sought refuge here and were referred to us. They were here nine months as they underwent identity changes. Step by step they got their lives in order, securing employment and a place of their own.”

Catherine’s House also helps residents when they are ready to venture out on their own by giving them a graduation ceremony and gifts to help them get settled in their new environment.

Local churches and Belmont Abbey College students are strong supporters of Catherine’s House, as they arrange parties for the residents. The Catholic as well as the non-Catholic community strongly supports Catherine’s House both financially and with in-kind gifts.

Catherine’s House is sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy. Other funding comes from local churches and community

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March 8, 2002

Around the Di-

Invitation to

Photo courtesy of Holy Cross Church Columbiettes

Holy Cross Columbiettes sponsor children’s consignment sale The Holy Cross Columbiettes in Kernersville held a children’s consignment sale, featuring a wide variety of children’s merchandise available for purchase Feb. 8 and 9. Hosting the event for the past eight years, the Columbiettes have used the money raised to support their church — as well as helping others in the community — such as Cancer Services and Room at the Inn of the Triad, among other organizations.

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The first ever ICSC Region IV Stewardship Day Conference is being held on Saturday, April 27. This collaborative effort, hosted and sponsored by the Archdiocese of Atlanta as well as the dioceses of Charlotte, Charleston, Raleigh and Savannah, is an excellent opportunity for people interested in stewardship to interact and learn from individuals and parishes from across the Southeast.

“We especially encourage parish ministry and commission leaders and those responsible for parish stewardship efforts to attend,” said Barbara Gaddy, associate director of development for the Diocese of Charlotte.

Keynote speakers will be Bishop John Snyder, retired bishop of St. Augustine, Fla., and Rosemary Bisig Smith, director of stewardship and development for the Archdiocese of Louisville, Ky. Throughout his 21 years of faithful service to the people of St. Augustine, Bishop Snyder worked diligently to promote the concept of stewardship.

He is recognized nationally for his deep personal commitment to stewardship as a way of life.

The Catholic News & Herald 15

Smith has served the archdiocese for 12 years and initiated the children’s stewardship education process.

“Rosemary Smith has a wealth of information and ideas related to children’s stewardship education. It would certainly benefit every parish to send someone from faith formation just to listen to Rosemary’s talks,” said Gaddy.

Featured sessions are: beginning and advanced stewardship parish profiles; stewardships for children, teens and the Hispanic culture; forming stewardship committees; and stewardship and evangelization.

Those encouraged to attend are: pastors; associates; deacons; school principals; directors of religious education; parish council members; stewardship committee members; youth ministers; diocesan, parish and school staff; and all others interested in embracing stewardship as a way of life.

The conference will be held at the Embassy Suites Hotel from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The fee is $30 per person and includes continental breakfast, conference materials, breaks and box lunch. Deadline for registration is April 12. For more information, call Barbara Gaddy in the Office of Development at 704-370-3302 or

1 6 The Catholic News & Herald

March 8, 2002

Living the

Deacon’s ministry grows out of

By ALESHA M. PRICE Staff Writer MAGGIE VALLEY — Gerard La Pointe’s young life unfolded against a backdrop of mountains, hills, lakes and snowy skies in Laconia, N.H., where his Canadian-born father owned a diner. Jerry’s Shore Diner was a popular spot for the locals and tourists especially during World War II. La Pointe started by peeling potatoes and worked his way up to head chef in the family business.

He grew up in an environment where religion was stressed. The family went to early Mass on Sunday mornings to the church a couple of houses away. Even though the diner took up much of the family’s time, they still managed to arrive for church every Sunday and help wherever they were needed.

While in high school, he met the love of his life. A St. Patrick’s Day Dance was the setting for this meeting, where after one dance, La Pointe was smitten with Lorraine. After becoming acquainted, he would pick up his sweetheart and drive her to school. “I liked everything about her. I couldn’t find one thing wrong with her,” he said.

The country was embroiled in the Korean War when La Pointe graduated from high school in 1951. His hobby of restoring and fixing cars turned into a career when he entered the New Hampshire Technical Institute where he took mostly mechanics classes. While attending classes, he married Lorraine in November 1951.

His first job after he finished school was an apprenticeship in a body shop in his hometown. He would travel from Mrs. La Pointe’s hometown of Laconia to work every morning. He later worked in two car dealerships before deciding to move to Clearwater, Fla., to work in another family business.

La Pointe’s family had moved to Florida two years before, and his father had opened a Texaco service station and repair shop. His father wanted his son to work with him, so with that proposal and the warm weather as incentives, La Pointe packed up his family and his in-laws and moved South in 1957. The men worked to build the station up, and La Pointe moved it to a new location and enlarged the business. In his spare time, he worked on antique cars

to baptize children and adults and perand loved restoring them.

“I loved the accomplishment that form weddings. It (the diaconate) was came from taking something that was simply another thing I wanted to get all banged up and making it look like involved in.”

Mrs. La Pointe was supportive it was never touched. I liked the aspect of making something out of nothing,” and was ready for her contribution to the ministry. But, their outlook for he said.

This traveling man, who has been the future suddenly became hazy. Mrs. to all states except Alaska and Wiscon- La Pointe was diagnosed with breast sin with his family, sold his business, cancer and had a mastectomy halfway retired and maintained his family’s through the formation classes.

Doctors inlifestyle with real formed them after estate investments. a series of chemoHowever, he was not therapy treatments sure about his future that she was in full plans. He had several remission, and she goals in mind, which went back to work included teaching his as a restaurant hostsix children about ess. When she could their faith. “I wanted not seem to hold the to help them be edumenus in her hands, cated and be interestthey were filled with ed in their religion,” a feeling of dread. he said.

Their feelings were He and his wife correct — the cancer were heavily involved was back, and the at their church including La Pointe’s Rev. Mr. Gerard and Lorraine outlook was dim.

La Pointe Plans for their service as an usher.

50th anniversary and The couple tried to their son’s wedding, share their faith to both in November 2001, and his orthe fullest degree with their children.

After the children were grown, dination in June seemed to fall apart. they began to wonder where they However, the bishop moved his ordinawould spend their autumn and winter tion ahead to March at his parish so years together. North Carolina seemed that Mrs. La Pointe could attend. It to be the likely choice, and they moved was a happy day for them both, and to Maggie Valley and settled in at St. they were all smiles, but two weeks later, Mrs. La Pointe died.

Margaret Church over 14 years ago.

“I know that I was truly blessed to “I became an altar server, and we did a lot of work to get others in- be married to her for 49 years and to have six beautiful children together,” volved,” he said.

His pastor informed him about said Rev. Mr. La Pointe, who misses the diocesan diaconate program, and everything about his wife. “I am cophe was intrigued. He went through ing pretty well. I have moments like the lay ministry program, one of the anyone else, but with all of the family requirements, but there was a problem. at St. Margaret, it helps. I can’t believe He was 64 at that time — older than what people have done for me, and they the age limit of 60. After writing to have treated me like one of the family.

Bishop William G. Curlin about his Most of them took as badly as I did, desire to serve, he was granted permis- but they have helped me to cope.”

The grandfather of seven and sion to enter the program.

“If I had known the diaconate was great-grandfather of one spends his open to anyone, I would have done it spare time creating works of art from long time ago,” he said. “I was doing wood that he calls “3-D wood mosamost everything that a deacon does — ics.” This artistry called intarsia is a giving the Eucharist to the sick and way for Rev. Mr. La Pointe to express teaching RCIA classes — but I wanted himself through his carvings. He says

Fr e s c o c l e a n u p e f fo r t s continue Cleanup work continues in St. Peter Church in Charlotte, where a central portion of the fresco fell Feb. 20. Specialists, including a conservator and various engineers are looking at the source of this tragedy. The diocese will make long range plans once all pertinent information is obtained. The immediate goal is to have the parish back up and open for Mass.

Photo by Joann S. Keane

Web site launched to help Catholics get answers on faith

By Dana Wind Catholic News Service DURHAM, N.C. (CNS) — Half way through the live chat session, moderator Father Joe Vetter, campus minister at Duke University, found himself on the receiving end of a stumper.

If the Catholic Church does not regard a marriage as valid unless it is consummated, and Mary remained ever virgin, does that mean the marriage between Mary and Joseph was invalid, a chat participant wondered.

It was not a Scripture scholar who asked the question. Instead, it was a college student who went by the online name “Jacko.”

A new Catholic Web site at http:// www.CatholicQandA.org is the brainchild of campus ministers from the Diocese of Raleigh. It debuted in January and is open to anyone interested in the Catholic faith. Visitors can post questions and receive e-mail replies, but the real attraction is the Tuesday evening live chat sessions with a priest or campus minister. No topics are barred.

“The site is useful because Catholicism is the least understood Christian religion.

It’s not even understood well by Catholics!” said Scott Hajek, a student at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

About three years ago Father Phillip Leach, diocesan director of campus ministry, conceived of an idea to use the latest technology to reach Catholic students.

Much of the information available online comes from individuals or “outside” groups, he noted.

“We, as ministers, really need to pay more attention because (the Web) has become such a significant tool for catechesis,” Father Leach said.

Most of the live sessions develop into dialogues rather than a straight questionanswer format. On average, six visitors participate on any given Tuesday during the 9 to 11 p.m. time slot.

“We’re dealing with a population of Roman Catholic people who are highly educated and deeply dedicated to their faith.

Simple answers will not do.”

They’re also dealing with a population that is not confined to Catholics, college students or the geographic Diocese of Raleigh.

While 91 percent of visitors are Catholic, 7 percent are Protestant and 2 percent are Jewish. Nearly one-third of users are over the age of 22.

The anonymity also provides a comfort level not found in talking to a priest face to face. Students have asked detailed questions about sexual morality and non-Catholic friends who want to go to confession.

“It’s not a theological site,” said Father Leach. “It is an attempt to give (visitors) the very best presentation of what the church teaches that is commensurate with the kind of education and interest that students have.”

And in answer to the question about Mary and Joseph, Father Vetter submitted the following to cyberspace: “The Catholic Church certainly considers Mary and Joseph to be a married couple.”