Dec. 10, 2010

December 10, 2010

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From drab to fab Upholding marriage

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As Prop 8 appeal begins, religious leaders urge protection of marriage, 15

Priests around the diocese are training increased numbers of altar servers to serve at Mass, 3

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charlottediocese.org/catholicnews | December 10, 2010 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Pope St. Damasus

Our parishes

December 10, 2010 | charlottediocese.org/catholicnews

catholic news heraldI

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In Brief

Feast day: Dec. 11 Pope Benedict XVI

God’s grace, mercy are more powerful than sin, evil VATICAN CITY — In keeping Mary free from sin, God showed how his grace and mercy are greater and more powerful than sin and evil, Pope Benedict XVI said.

“Unfortunately, every day we experience evil that manifests itself in many ways in interactions and events, but it has its roots in the human heart – a wounded, sick heart that is incapable of healing by itself,” he said Dec. 8, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception.

The mystery of the Immaculate Conception is a source of “hope and comfort,” the pope told pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square for the feast, a major public holiday in Italy.

“Amid life’s trials and especially its contradictions, which people experience both inside themselves and all around them, Mary, the mother of Christ, tells us that grace is greater than sin, that God’s mercy is more powerful than evil and that God knows how to transform it into good,” he said.

In his English remarks, the pope prayed that through Mary, “our hearts and minds might be kept free from sin, so that like Mary we would be spiritually prepared to welcome Christ.”

“Let us turn to her, the immaculate one, who brought Christ to us, and ask her now to bring us to Him,” he said.

Mary looks upon everyone with love and is an advocate on everyone’s behalf, he said. Mary looks upon everybody just as God looked upon her: as “chosen and precious” in the eyes of God even though as a young girl, she seemed insignificant to the rest of the world.

The pope thanked Mary for watching over everyone and prayed she would give people the strength to “reject every form of evil and to choose the good, even when it comes at a high price and means going against the current.”

Pope St. Damasus was born in 305 or 306 in Rome, of Spanish descent. The 37th successor to St. Peter, Damasus was pontiff during a turbulent era of disagreements over the true nature of Jesus Christ, as well as a time of growth following Christianity’s newfound protection in Rome.

After Pope St. Liberius died in 366, riots broke out in Rome over a successor – fueled in part by a theological dispute in the early Church over Christ’s human and divine nature and His relationship to God. (In 325 Church fathers had proclaimed with the Nicene Creed that Christ is “one in being (or, consubstantial) with the Father,” but not everyone accepted it.)

Check it out Learn more about Arianism, the amazing hero St. Athanasius, and the struggles of the early Church to understand the nature of Jesus Christ, which we profess in the Nicene Creed, online at www.newadvent.org/ cathen/01707c.htm.

The majority favored Damasus, 62, who had served under St. Liberius and accepted the Nicene Creed. A minority, however, refused to accept him.

Instead, they set up the antipope Ursinus, who incited a bloody revolt in Rome. The hand-tohand combat nearly destroyed the then new Basilica of St. Mary Major, and 137 people were left dead inside.

Less than a month later, on Oct. 1, 366, Damasus was

installed as pope. But the violence continued and the Roman emperor Valentinian was forced to intercede to calm the city. He expelled Ursinus, but the antipope returned and falsely accused Damasus of adultery. Damasus responded by assembling a synod of 44 bishops, justifying himself so well that Ursinus was excommunicated and banished.

A schism averted, Damasus turned his attention to attacking the Arian heresy. (Arianism rejected that Christ was both completely human and, at the same time, completely divine – essentially denying the Incarnation.)

Arianism had grown so popular that it threatened to hijack the early Church, so Damasus sent St. Zenobius, later bishop of Florence, to Constantinople – the heart of Arianism. The faithful there were being persecuted by Valens, Valentinian’s brother and a follower of Arianism. After the Goths killed Valens in 378, his successor Theodosius convened the Second Ecumenical Council at Constantinople in 381, which expanded the Nicene Creed and roundly condemned the heresies.

Damasus didn’t stop there. He published a list of the 72 books of the Bible, and he encouraged his old friend and secretary, St. Jerome, to pull together the scattered books and translate them from Greek to Latin – known as the Vulgate. He made Latin the Church’s principle language.

Damasus is best known for his work protecting the catacombs, and he is the patron saint of archeologists. He ardently searched for the tombs of martyrs which had been blocked up and hidden during the

Roman persecutions. He drained the springs underneath the Vatican, which were inundating the tombs, and he lighted the passages and stairwells, encouraging pilgrims to visit the catacombs.

The wealthy elite of Rome responded to his efforts, making Christianity more popular – particularly among women, whom Damasus particularly sought to convert so they would in turn convert their husbands.

He decorated many of his favorite sepulchres, adorning them with epitaphs in verse that he composed. He also confirmed the practice of singing the Psalms day and night in the churches and adding a Glory Be at the end of each Psalm.

Having reigned for 18 years, Damasus died Dec. 11, 384.

Tradition has it that as the 79-year-old lay feverish on his death bed, he received Communion and then lifted up his eyes and hands to heaven before expiring in devout prayer.

Damasus was known for being humble and living a simple life, even though many bishops and popes of that era were known for their glittering lifestyles. He courted the wealthy yet cared for the poor, and he valued education and reading the Scriptures.

In the eighth century, his relics were placed in St. Laurence in Damaso – his boyhood church that he had rebuilt – except for his head, which is kept at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

— Sources: “The Lives of the Fathers, Martyrs and Principal Saints,” by Father Alban Butler and “The Popes: A Papal History,” by J.V. Bartlett

St. William students share holiday baskets MURPHY — The children’s faith formation class gathered Nov. 22 at St. William Church in Murphy to prepare more than 100 Thanksgiving baskets that were distributed to hungry families in the Murphy area. Each basket was stuffed with soup, vegetables,stuffing, macaroni and cheese and hot chocolate. The baskets were then distributed with turkeys and pies to families who, without the help of this group, may not have had a Thanksgiving meal this year.

Pope and poet Pope St. Damasus liked to write epigrams in verse: short sayings that capture the essence of what needed to be said. He wrote many epigrams on martyrs and saints. And he wrote one about himself that shows his humility and the respect he had for the martyrs. In a Roman cemetery is the papal crypt he built. All that is left of him there, however, is this: “I, Damasus, wished to be buried here, but I feared to offend the ashes of these holy ones.” Instead, when he died in 384, he was buried with his mother and sister.

— From “The Faith of the Early Fathers,” by William A. Jurgens

Your daily Scripture readings SCRIPTURE FOR THE WEEK OF DEC. 12 – DEC. 18

Sunday, Isaiah 35:1-6, 10, James 5:7-10, Matthew 11:2-11; Monday (St. Lucy), Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17, Matthew 21:23-27; Tuesday (St. John of the Cross), Zephaniah 3:1-2, 9-13, Matthew 21:28-32; Wednesday, Isaiah 45:68, 18, 21-25, Luke 7:18-23; Thursday, Isaiah 54:1-10, Luke 7:24-30; Friday, Genesis 49:2, 8-10, Matthew 1:1-17; Saturday, Jeremiah 23:5-8, Matthew 1:18-25

SCRIPTURE FOR THE WEEK OF DEC. 19 – DEC. 25

Sunday, Isaiah 7:10-14, Romans 1:1-17, Matthew 1:18-24; Monday, Isaiah 7:10-14, Luke 1:26-38; Tuesday (St. Peter Canisius), Song of Songs 2:8-14, Luke 1:39-45; Wednesday, 1 Samuel 1:24-28, 1 Samuel 2:1, 4-8, Luke 1:4656; Thursday (St. John of Kanty), Malachi 3:1-4, 23-24, Luke 1:57-66; Friday, 2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8-12, 14, 16, Luke 1:67-79; Saturday (The Nativity of the Lord), Isaiah 9:1-6, Titus 2:11-14, Luke 2:1-14

— Len Tufford

Greensboro named second most religious city in U.S. GREENSBORO — Men’s Health magazine has ranked Greensboro as the second most religious city in America, according to a list compiled for its December 2010 issue. The magazine looked to the U.S. Census and other data sources to find places of worship per capita. It counted religious organizations in each city and the number of volunteers who support these groups. It also considered the amount of money donated to religious organizations and the amount spent on religious books in each city.

Belmont Abbey named top ‘School on the Rise’ BELMONT — First Things magazine has named Belmont Abbey College America’s pre-eminent “School on the Rise, Filled with Excitement” in the magazine’s first survey of the nation’s colleges and universities. More than 100 leading colleges and universities are profiled in its November issue. The magazine also ranked Belmont Abbey College sixth among America’s top 12 “Most Catholic Catholic Schools.” In its review, First Things wrote: “Once only local, Belmont Abbey is increasingly attracting a national set of Catholic students drawn to the college’s ‘vibrant community life and the rich Catholic intellectual tradition.’”

bill Washington | catholic NEWS hERALD

Altar servers at Sacred Heart Church in Salisbury participate in the recessional at Mass at the church Dec. 5. The celebrant was Oblate Father James Erving from Texas, who also led the Advent parish mission. Deacon Jim Mazur is also pictured.

Called to serve Altar servers increasing in number at parishes across the diocese SueAnn Howell Staff writer

CHARLOTTE — Have you noticed more young people wearing albs, cassocks and surplices serving at Mass?

It’s not just a fluke – it’s a trend that priests around the Diocese of Charlotte are encouraging. More and more young people in the diocese are expressing willingness to serve their parishes through the privilege of altar serving.

St. Michael Church in Gastonia particularly has been graced with a growing number of altar servers over the past several years. It is not uncommon for the church to have more than 10 boys every Sunday at the 10 a.m. Mass.

Father Roger K. Arnsparger, who is St. Michael’s pastor as well as vicar of education for the diocese, welcomes the growing popularity of altar servers and said he hopes to encourage vocations.

“We have had a great interest from young men wanting to serve at Holy Mass,” Father Arnsparger said. “The young men are filled with a humble appreciation of the opportunity and the privilege of serving Holy Mass. The fraternal bond between them has been

a great help to them in their spiritual lives and in their growing love of the Mass and the Church.

“They show great responsibility, leadership and loyalty. They encourage each other, teach each other, learn from each other and enjoy the process. They are a small faith group leading each other in excellence in Catholic worship and in their Catholic lives.”

Father Christopher Roux also has been stoking the fires of service among young men since his arrival as rector of St. Patrick Cathedral in 2008.

“It is my firm hope that by keeping the boys closely associated to the altar throughout their early years, if they have a vocation to the priesthood, the call will be awakened and encouraged,” Father Roux said.

At St. Ann Church in Charlotte, Father Timothy Reid has the same intention.

“The Church has looked upon altar serving as a means of generating vocations to the priesthood for many generations precisely because it introduces boys and young men to the most important aspect of priesthood: offering the holy sacrifice of the SERVERs, SEE page 17

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charlottediocese.org/catholicnews | December 10, 2010 OUR PARISHES

Diocesan calendar

Bishop Peter J. Jugis Bishop Peter J. Jugis will participate in the following events over the next week: Dec. 11 – 11 a.m.

Sacrament of Confirmation St. John Baptiste de la Salle Church, North Wilkesboro Dec. 14 – 5 p.m.

Christmas Gathering for Pastoral Center Employees Bishop’s Residence Dec. 16 – 6 p.m.

Christmas Gathering for Deacons and Wives Bishop’s Residence

ASHEVILLE ST. LAWRENCE BASILICA, 97 Haywood St. — National Night of Prayer for Life, 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Dec. 8-9.

Please join us for an hour during this vigil for life.

BELMONT

This week’s spotlight: St. Basil Eastern Catholic Mission ST. BASIL EASTERN CATHOLIC MISSION, 7702 Pineville-Matthews Road, Charlotte Catholic High School Campus, Charlotte:

QUEEN OF THE APOSTLES CHURCH, 503 N. Main St. — Mary, Mother and Model Part 2, MAK Center, adult education program, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14

— Feast of the Nativity Mass, 10 a.m. Dec. 25

CHARLOTTE

— feast of the theophany Mass with the Great Blessing of Water, 6 p.m. Jan. 5

DIOCESAN PASTORAL CENTER, 1123 S. Church St. — Natural Family Planning Class, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 11.

RSVP required to Batrice Adcock, MSN, RN, at cssnfp@ charlottediocese.org or 704-370-3230.

OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CHURCH, 4207 Shamrock Dr. — Bible Study Groups, 9:45-10:45 a.m. Sundays or 7:30-9 p.m. Wednesdays. Contact Deacon Kevin Williams at 704-537-9973.

OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CHURCH, 6212 Tuckaseegee Road — Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration, Bojangles’ Coliseum (2700 E. Independence Blvd.), 8 p.m. Dec. 11. Folkloric dances, live presentation about the apparitions to St. Juan Diego, procession of flags, celebration of the Eucharist, Las Mañanitas.

ST. GABRIEL CHURCH, 3016 Providence Road — Shining Stars Adult Day Respite for those with early to moderate Alzheimer’s Disease, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Contact Suzanne Bach at 704-335-0253.

— Shining Stars Adult Day Respite Caregivers Support Group, Ministry Center Rm. E, 10-11:30 a.m. last Monday of each month. Contact Suzanne Bach at 704-335-0253.

ST. MATTHEW CHURCH, 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy.

— Opus Dei Recollection for Women, Daily Mass Chapel, 10 a.m.-noon Dec. 11. Confession available at 9:30 a.m.

Contact Remy Ignacio at remy_ignacio@hotmail.com or 704-752-7155.

— St. Basil the Great Feast Day Mass, 6 p.m.

Dec. 31

Visit stbasil.weebly.com or contact Gus Gulyas at 704-365-1308.

ST. THOMAS AQUINAS CHURCH, 1400 SUTHER ROAD — Misa de Gallo, 7 p.m. Dec. 17 — Support for Unemployed, Aquinas Hall, 10 a.m. Mondays.

Contact Steve Basinski at jsbas@carolina.rr.com or 704-456-7434.

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL CHURCH, 6828 Old Reid Road — The Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians Meeting, 7 p.m. third Wednesday of each month. They welcome Irish-Catholic women who are interested in sharing their Catholic faith, Christian charity and the traditions of the Irish people. Contact Mary Herbert at mherbert@ carolina.rr.com or 704-231-9546.

GASTONIA st. michael church, 708 St. michael’s lane — Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration Mass, 7 p.m. Dec. 11

HENDERSONVILLE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CHURCH, 208 Seventh Ave. W. — Justice for Immigrants Ministry presents the DREAM Act Conference, 9 a.m.-noon Dec. 11. RSVP to cjnc154@att.net or 828-697-0083.

— St. Peregrine Healing Service, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 16

— Rosary in Spanish, 7 p.m. Dec. 14

— Polish Mass, 3 p.m. Dec. 19. Reconciliation available at 2 p.m.

— Widows Support Group, Rm. 2, 10 a.m. third Tuesday of each month. Contact Jane Lombardo at 828-693-9014.

HICKORY ST. ALOYSIUS CHURCH, 921 Second st., n.e.

— Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration, Dec. 11, 7 p.m. Rosary, prayers, music; 11 p.m. Mass followed by Las Mañanitas.

A day spent with the Gospel of Matthew

BOONE — Mercy Sister Mary Hugh Mauldin conducted a Scripture workshop recently at St. Elizabeth Church in Boone for the entire HUNTERSVILLE vicariate. About 20 catechists and interested st. mark church, 14740 stumptown road — Our Lady of Perpetual Help Novenas, 6:30 p.m. Mondays adults participated in the day-long workshop on the theme “A Day With the Gospel of — Eucharistic Adoration, Chapel, 7:30 a.m. Fridays-8:45 a.m. Matthew.” The goal of the workshop was Saturdays to anticipate the upcoming Cycle A of the liturgical year, to deepen one’s faith and to enhance catechetical activities. Ellisa Miller KERNERSVILLE and Father Joe Mulligan of St. Elizabeth HOLY CROSS CHURCH, 616 S. Cherry St. Church co-sponsored the day with the Office — Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration, Dec. 11-12, 6-10:30 of Faith Formation. p.m. Mexican food, music, and games; 11 p.m. Rosary in Spanish; 12 a.m. Mass; 1 a.m. Las Mañanitas.

— Dr. Cris V. Villapando

MOUNT AIRY holy angels church, 1208 N. Main st.

— Missa Cantata, 10 a.m. Dec. 25. Contact holyangelsmountairy@charlottediocese.org or 336-7868147.

MURPHY st. william church, 765 Andrews Road — Concert, presented by The Cherokee County Community Choir, 7 p.m. Dec. 12

TRYON st. john the baptist church, 180 laurel ave.

— Our Lady of Guadalupe Mass, 11 p.m. Dec. 11

WINSTON-SALEM HOLY FAMILY CHURCH, 4820 Kinnamon Road — Charismatic Prayer Group, Chapel, 7:15 p.m. Mondays — Eucharistic Adoration, Curlin Center, 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m.

Thursdays — Life in the Spirit Seminar, Function Hall, sponsored by BLD Charotte, Mar. 26-27, 2011. Submission deadline Dec. 20. Contact Bert & Lith Golamco at guapolai7@aol.com or 336-201-2774.

Birthright supporters celebrate life WINSTON-SALEM — Supporters gathered at St. Leo the Great Church in WinstonSalem Nov. 5 for a benefit to kick off the annual appeal campaign for Birthright. An international organization founded in Toronto in 1968 by Louise Summerhill, the WinstonSalem office is unique to the state. Birthright offers free pregnancy tests, counseling and support to women. Birthright’s mission is stated, “It is the right of every pregnant woman to give birth and the right of every child to be born.”

Winston-Salem director Anne Spencer said, “We don’t duplicate the work of doctors’ offices or community agencies, but work in conjunction with them. We help a woman determine her needs and guide her to appropriate resources so that she may care for herself and her baby. It is this human touch that we recognize will offer a message of hope and concern. In this way, lives can be saved.”

— Susan deGuzman

Singletary earns Eagle Scout rank

December 10, 2010 Volume 20 • Number 4

1123 S. Church St. Charlotte, N.C. 28203-4003 catholicnews@charlottediocese.org 704-370-3333 PUBLISHER: The Most Reverend Peter J. Jugis, Bishop of Charlotte

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photo courtesy of gail buckley

Lady Gail Buckley (right) is pictured at her investiture into the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem with Ronald George Precup, KC*HS, Esq., of the Diocese of Arlington, Va., and Cardinal William H. Keeler at the Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Baltimore Oct. 30.

CSS founder joins order devoted to the Holy Land SueAnn Howell Staff Writer

Is your parish or school hosting a free event open to the public? Deadline for all submissions for the Diocesan Calendar is 10 days prior to desired publication date. Submit in writing to catholicnews@charlottediocese.org or fax to 704-370-3382.

CHARLOTTE — On Sunday, Dec. 12, Boy Scout Troop 9 and Scoutmaster Charles Chirchirillo will award Scott Singletary, 16, with the Eagle Scout rank. For his Eagle charlottediocese.org. The Catholic News Herald reserves the right to reject or cancel advertising for any reason, and does not Scout project, Singletary led a crew of 25 recommend or guarantee any product, service or benefit claimed people who added benches, birdhouses and by our advertisers. landscaping to a science learning garden on the campus of Holy Trinity Middle School in SUBSCRIPTIONS: $15 per year for all registered parishioners of Charlotte. Singletary joined the Cub Scouts the Diocese of Charlotte and $23 per year for all others. at age 7 and has been a member of Boy Scout Troop 9 since 2005. Singletary is POSTMASTER: Periodicals class postage (USPC 007-393) paid at a junior at Charlotte Catholic High School Charlotte, N.C. Send address corrections to the Catholic News and a member of St. Patrick Cathedral in Herald, 1123 S. Church St., Charlotte, N.C. 28203.

Charlotte. He is the son of Dan and Maggie Singletary of Charlotte.

OUR PARISHESI

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Funeral Mass said Dec. 6 for Holy Family deacon

In Brief

ANDREWS hOLY REDEEMER CHURCH, 214 Aquone road — Mass in Extraordinary Form, 8:30 a.m. Dec. 11. Contact 828-321-4463.

December 10, 2010 | charlottediocese.org/catholicnews

BALTIMORE — Gail Buckley, best known for creating Catholic Scripture Study International, a Bible study program, has been invested in the Equestrian Order of The Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem.

The Annual Investiture for the Mid Atlantic Lieutenancy was held Oct. 30 at the Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Baltimore.

Buckley and her husband, Dr. Thomas Buckley, are parishioners at St. Vincent de Paul Church in Charlotte.

In 2008 Buckley traveled to Rome and had the opportunity to present the Catholic Scripture Study program to Pope Benedict XVI, who gave it his papal blessing.

“I feel very honored to have been appointed to this ancient order under the papacy,” said Buckley of her investiture as a lady in the order. “During the investiture ceremony I, and the other ladies of the Holy Sepulcher, promised to always keep in mind the land of our Redeemer and to take care to do all that we can to ensure that His holy

name be spread and loved everywhere.”

The Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem was founded in 1099 and is the only lay institution of the Vatican State charged with the task of providing for the needs of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and of all the activities and initiatives to support the Christian presence in the Holy Land. The members’ contributions are therefore the patriarchal institution’s main source of funding.

“Unfortunately, today Christians make up only 3 percent of the population in the Holy Land,” Buckley said. “To sustain the presence of those still there, we support schools and orphanages and other organizations there and do what we can to help those Christians who wish to remain there to do so. We are committed to praying for the people there and for peace in the Holy Land.”

Alice Asbury Cella, a parishioner at the Basilica of St. Lawrence in Asheville, served as Mistress of Ceremonies for the investiture. Cella was also promoted to the rank of Lady Commander with Star.

The order has more than 23,000 members worldwide dedicated to service and charity.

CLEMMONS — Deacon Gerard A. Schumacher, 75, of Winston-Salem, died Dec. 1.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Dec. 6 at Holy Family Church in Clemmons with Bishop Peter J. Jugis officiating. Concelebrants were Father Michael J. Buttner, pastor, Father Tri Vinh Troung, parochial vicar, Father Brian J. Cook, pastor of St. Leo the Great Church in Winston-Salem, Father A.J. Galant, Father Francis J. O’Rourke, pastor of St. Gabriel Church in Charlotte, and Father John T. Putnam, pastor of Sacred Heart Church in Salisbury. Deacon Mike Langsdorf of Divine Redeemer Church in Boonville, along with many other deacons who serve the Diocese of Charlotte, were also present.

Deacon Schumacher was born Nov. 22, 1935, to the late Gerard R. and Mary Louise Seereiter Schumacher in Buffalo, N.Y., where he attended Canisius High School and College. He worked for National Gypsum in Buffalo and Charlotte for more than 25 years. He and his family moved to Winston-Salem in 1984, and he worked for Piedmont Airlines/U.S. Airways until his retirement in 1999.

He was ordained a permanent deacon for the diocese in 1988, and he served at Holy Family Church in Clemmons.

His life was devoted to his family, his church and numerous friends. He was a generous blood and platelet donor for the American Red Cross, accumulating almost 100 gallons. He was also active in the Cursillo Movement in the dioceses of Buffalo and Charlotte.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Mary Ellen Signer Schumacher; his parents; and a sister.

He is survived by seven sisters and brothers, three sons, four daughters, eight grandchildren and and a large extended family.

Memorials may be made in lieu of flowers to the Holy Family Church Commemorative Fund, P.O. Box 130, Clemmons, N.C. 27012.

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charlottediocese.org/catholicnews | December 10, 2010 OUR PARISHES

In Brief Catholics Come Home is for everyone CHARLOTTE — Television and radio stations throughout the diocese will start airing commercials next week with a compelling message of welcome for non-Catholics, fallen away Catholics and parishioners who practice the faith. The Catholics Come Home campaign is designed to raise awareness of the 2,000 years of Biblical truth and sacred tradition at the heart of our faith.

TV commercials will air from Dec. 17 to Jan. 23 on the local ABC, CBS, NBC and FOX affiliates in Charlotte, Winston-Salem and Greensboro; cable channels CNN, FOX News and BET; and in Spanish on Telemundo, Galavision, Univision and CNN Español. Radio spots will air on five stations in the Smoky Mountain Vicariate. The commercials will air more than 2,100 times.

The commercials invite people to visit a Catholic church or go online to Catholics Come Home at www.CatholicsComeHome.org. The Web site has question-and-answer sections designed to address, in simple language, the tenets and common misunderstandings about the Catholic faith.

Some dioceses, such as Phoenix, Ariz., that have conducted the campaign have seen significant increases in Mass attendance and adult faith formation classes.

The diocesan campaign, which cost $335,000, is being paid for by a special collection taken up in parishes over this past summer and a diocesan contribution.

— David Hains

Thanks for support of Lemonds family HIGH POINT — A recent spaghetti dinner fundraiser generated a total of $15,000 for

the Lemonds family, whose 11-year-old son is battling cancer. Coordinators of the event are grateful for the hundreds of volunteers and participants who contributed to the fundraiser’s success. Special thanks go to businesses who donated items for the dinner: Grateful Bread, TRAC Reprographics, and an anonymous company.

— Wanda Garrett

HICKORY — On Oct. 19, 100 senior citizens from 14 parishes around the diocese attended “A Day of Reflection” at the Catholic Conference Center. The event was sponsored by the Elder Ministry of Catholic Social Services of the Diocese of Charlotte. Monsignor John McSweeney, pastor of St. Matthew Church in Charlotte (pictured above, with some of the attendees), spoke to the group, giving them spiritual how-to’s on “filling the bucket” and keeping it full with positive behavior and prayer.

He also stressed the importance of beginning each day with purpose and closing each night with a sense of accomplishment, as well as giving thanks for blessings. At the conclusion of the day-long retreat, Monsignor McSweeney celebrated Mass and Ryan Ostrander, music director of St. Aloysius Church in Hickory, provided musical accompaniment.

Kathy Schmugge Correspondent

— Barbara Case Speers

Women’s Advent program focuses on St. Elizabeth Suzanne Konopka Correspondent

ARDEN — Can we really see life through someone else’s eyes? That was the question posed at St. Barnabas Church Dec. 4, when 135 women in and around the Asheville Vicariate gathered for the Women’s Program “Advent Reflections: Through the Eyes of Elizabeth.”

Father Adrian Porras, pastor of St. Barnabas, noted, “This offers women an opportunity to take a break and focus on their spiritual lives.”

Program facilitator Lauretta Beale agreed, adding, “Something just happens when women come together – lots of fellowship, reflection, inspiration, joy, laughter and spiritual growth.”

The morning began with the celebration of Mass. Music was provided throughout the program by Jeanne Naber. After Mass, Catherine Holzworth reflected on St. Elizabeth’s personal journey of faith – through the sorrow of her barrenness – together with the longing of all faithful Jews for the promised Messiah. A Spanish track was led by Amanda Serrato.

“During this holy season, the whole Church invites us to recognize the same longing in our hearts,” Holzworth said.

“Elizabeth shows us how to wait.”

“We see through Elizabeth’s eyes that

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St. Matthew parishioner speaks after special Mass

Parishioner Catherine Holzworth of St. Barnabas Church in Arden presented the main reflection at the Women’s Program Dec. 4, “Advent Reflections: Through the Eyes of Elizabeth.”

Suzanne Konopka | Catholic News Herald

‘Filling the bucket’ at elder retreat

OUR PARISHESI

December 10, 2010 | charlottediocese.org/catholicnews

Mary is the tabernacle in which the Holy of Holies resides. And with her, we adore Him. We, too, experience the presence of Christ in one another,” she said.

Small groups met to answer the questions: Have we shared Elizabeth’s experience of answered prayer, do we take time for quiet reflection, and what is our response to the tangible presence of God? The program closed with a meditation

by Regina Voegele. She focused on the four themes of Advent and the essence of our whole spiritual journey on Earth: total surrender to God, bringing Christ to others, faithful and patient waiting, and true joy.

Participants were grateful for the program. “It’s very important to be around other women, especially spiritual women,” Doreen Sugierski | Catholic News Herald said Kathy Segall of St. Barnabas.

Alice Anderson of Our Lady of the Angels Church in Marion added, “It’s beautiful how Mary and Elizabeth bonded, and how Mary Father Carmen Malacari imparted a blessing Nov. 7 on the new nursery at Holy Spirit Church in Denver. The new children’s nursery was planned, decorated and went to support Elizabeth. It’s what we’re sup- completed as a Girl Scout Gold Award by parishioner Jordan D’Amato. The Gold Award project is the highest award given in Girl Scouting and Jordan, along posed to do – reach out to someone else. The with volunteers, put in more than 100 hours to complete the nursery. “Jungle Junction, Where All God’s Children Come to Play” opened Nov. 14. one who reaches out is blessed even more.”

Can we see through someone else’s eyes? “We can ask for the grace,” said Holzworth, “to celebrate Advent through Elizabeth’s eyes, with joyful hope at the commemoration of Christ’s birth and in His coming at the end of time.”

The next Women’s Program at St. Barnabas will be March 26.

ASHEVILLE — The Catholic Social Services office in Asheville is in urgent need of a reliable agency vehicle. Staff and interns use the agency vehicle rather than rent vehicles for business travel. Please consider donating your gently used, reliable vehicle to the Asheville CSS office. A donation is tax deductible. Contact Michele Sheppard at 828-255-0146, ext. 17.

New nursery blessed

In Brief

Gently used vehicles needed

St. Damien’s life dramatized CHARLOTTE — St. John Neumann Church in Charlotte hosted the play “Damien” Nov. 6. The play consisted of one actor, Reid Sasser, who reenacted the emotional and trying life of St. Damien, who ministered for 12 years to a Hawaiian leper colony before he contracted the disease himself.

— Meredith Magyar

ROCK HILL, S.C. — “Believe it or not, I was trying to negotiate with God. I said, ‘You can just take me and let them find Stephen somewhere on the shoreline alive.’ I think I was convinced for a little while that it would work, but realized that you don’t negotiate with God. That was my moment of surrender,” said guest speaker and Catholic author Kelly Buckley, who shared her unique journey with grief after the loss of her 23-year-son Stephen over a year ago.

Buckley spoke after the “Remembering Our Children” Mass sponsored by the dioceses of Charleston and Charlotte Nov. 13, hosted by The Oratory in Rock Hill. The annual event was for parents who have experienced the death of a Buckley child, giving them an opportunity to honor and remember their children. It was the first time the Diocese of Charlotte sponsored the Mass and discussion.

“An event like this allows for people to come who might not think they need healing or would not seek any other means to express their grief,” said Christy Brown, diocesan coordinator for Post Abortion Ministry.

Buckley, a Canadian native who is a parishioner at St. Matthew Church in Charlotte, shared her story with other families who experienced loss, occasionally reading excerpts from her book, “Gratitude in Grief, Finding Daily Joy and a Life of Purpose Following the Death of My Son.” “Kelly Buckley chose to focus on gratitude as a way to keep bitterness and anger out of her heart. Her compelling story and the choices she made were an inspiration and comfort for everyone,” said Maggi Nadol, Respect Life Coordinator for the Diocese of Charlotte.

When she waited on the shoreline for divers to find her drowned son, Buckley began to look for God’s comfort in those who surrounded her. She began to notice things to be thankful for, such as the stranger who came up and gave her a hug at the lake.

“My mom died in 1991, and this woman hugged just like my mom – and it was like a hug that had been sent from heaven,” she recalled.

Buckley admits that some days are more difficult than others, and she describes those days like “wearing a lead suit, with lead boots, lead in the pockets with rock” in her hands, yet in her search for gratitude in those moments, she said she always finds something. It could be as simple as a beautiful butterfly, a good cup of coffee, or a letter in the mailbox that turns her day around.

She said something that she will always be grateful for is an e-mail exchange she once had with her son before he died, written one evening when she took a moment from her busy day to tell him how proud she was of him and how much she loved him. In her book, she writes that the e-mail “saved” her after his death – it was a tangible exchange that comforted her, knowing that she had told him how she felt about him.

“We should act because we all have these moments where we make a choice to say what we really feel about people, to spread that love, to write or make that phone call,” she told the audience after Mass.

She reminded them to open up their hearts and not retreat in their “submarine” and try to deal with the pain without support, because there are people waiting to comfort and help them.

And she suggested to people that during the holidays – which are always an emotional time for people who’ve lost loved ones – they add new traditions to their old ones to help them in their grief.

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charlottediocese.org/catholicnews | December 10, 2010 OUR PARISHES

December 10, 2010 | charlottediocese.org/catholicnews

photo provided by Father JosÉ Antonio Juya

SEPI class graduation More than 30 people graduated recently from the South East Pastoral Institute, otherwise known as SEPI, with a ceremony held at St. Mary Church in Shelby. SEPI, based in Miami, Fla., serves as a school to help train lay people in Hispanic ministry through classes and other services.

Doreen Sugierski | Catholic News Herald

Crafting comfy blankets for children in need Like many parishes across the diocese, Holy Spirit Church in Denver has a quilt-making ministry. Their ministry benefits Project Linus, which provides “security blankets” to seriously ill or traumatized children. Over the past 10 years, the ministry led by Margaret Carpenter (middle) has delivered more than 5,000 blankets, plus shawls and hats. Recipient groups include the Charlotte, North Mecklenburg and Catawba chapters of Project Linus, Gaston Memorial Hospital, Holy Spirit parishioners in need, Rachel’s Vineyard, and the Be Not Afraid ministry. Also pictured are Debbie Gnandt, Jackie Richmond and Faye Lilieholm. The group does a Saturday workshop three times a year, as well as works on quilts at home and Thursday evenings at the church. They also knit and crochet items, and they always welcome donations of money, yarn and fabric.

Gifts of prayer and comfort Father George Kloster, pastor of St. William Catholic Church in Murphy, blesses and distributes prayer shawls at the youth Mass Sunday, Nov. 21. These shawls were created by the Prayerful Hands Ministry, founded in 1997 by two women who combined a love of knitting and crochet into a ministry that reaches out to those in need of comfort and solace. Many hours and much creative skill go into each shawl.

St. William Church has 23 regular members who have delivered 25 shawls to the needy in four months.

There are specific colors for each shawl created, including pink for breast cancer, and blue and green for healing. The completed shawls are then blessed by Father Kloster at Sunday Mass and distributed to the sick and needy.

photo provided by Len Tufford

OUR PARISHESI

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FROM THE COVER

December 10, 2010 | charlottediocese.org/catholicnews

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From drab to fab, on a dime

Parishioners remake St. John the Baptist Church on eve of centennial year Patricia Guilfoyle Editor

photo courtesy of St. John the Baptist Church

Before the renovation, the sanctuary of St. John the Baptist had white walls and a simple altar.

Patricia Guilfoyle | Catholic News Herald

After the renovation, the new marble altar contrasts sharply against the dark wood paneling. The design, largely neo-Gothic, also blends elements of Byzantine, Moorish and Romanesque styles, says Jacob Wolfe, who worked closely with Father Patrick Winslow to create the custom look.

TRYON — Last Sunday’s Gospel tells the story of St. John the Baptist urging people to prepare for the coming of the Lord.

In the same vein, parishioners have been diligently readying for the 100th anniversary of St. John the Baptist Church in Tryon in 2011. Over the past three years, they have dramatically transformed the church’s interior from drab 1960s-era minimalism to spectacular neo-Gothic richness – and most of the work has been done on a shoestring budget by parishioners, led by their pastor and a local college student.

Jacob Wolfe, 22, a lifelong member of St. John the Baptist and the son of Bob and Nina Wolfe, has been working for two years on the renovation under the guidance of Father Patrick Winslow. Wolfe is studying furniture design at Appalachian State University in Boone, working on the church during the summers and breaks from classes. The church has been a type of experiment for him and Father Winslow, a place where they dreamed up custom designs and tried them out – all in the spirit of the church’s motto “That in all things God be glorified” and for the purpose of giving parishioners a place to pray, relax and draw closer to God. “We have worked really well together,” Wolfe says of Father Winslow, and Father Winslow agrees.

“It’s been a win-win,” Father Winslow says. He was able to get customized design help, Wolfe had a unique opportunity to try out his talent, and the parish was able to afford a dramatic renovation.

Wolfe did most of the sanctuary’s wood carving, installation and staining. Wolfe and Tyler Grobowski, a friend who’s studying at the Savannah College of Art and Design, spent a summer high up on scaffolding painting the ceiling, Michelangelo-style. Actually, they painted the ceiling twice – Father Winslow, who Wolfe says has a gifted eye for color and form, thought the initial beige background color was too light, making the red and blue designs look garish. So they went back over it with a darker tan.

“I pulled a few all-nighters on that,” Wolfe says, laughing.

Mirroring the design themes Wolfe, Father Winslow and the parish had settled on, parishioner Andy Hayden, a carpenter, constructed the niches for the statues of Mary and St. Joseph, picking up even the smallest details from the overall redesign.

And parishioner Matt Lynch’s talents are literally showcased from the ceiling to the floor – he installed the flooring and worked on the ceiling beams. A stained glass window is dedicated to him in gratitude.

The renovation actually started in 2007 with the dedication of a massive new marble altar and the relocation of the tabernacle to the center of the sanctuary. The intricately carved altar, high altar and ambo replaced a simple wood altar that had been there since the church was built in 1962.

Parishioners raised $110,000 to fund the new altar, carved from four tons of red and white Carrara marble from Italy and featuring the baptism of Jesus

by St. John the Baptist.

It wasn’t long before the parish started thinking about beautifying the rest of the plain white sanctuary.

The blue industrial carpeting was ripped up, revealing hardwood floors beneath, and the whitewashed walls were given a faux-stone treatment.

Father Winslow obtained a used metal communion rail, and Saluda Forge in Tryon fitted it for the new sanctuary.

But the most dramatic changes were reserved for the sanctuary – above and around the altar, the white walls were covered in mahogany- and walnut-stained wood featuring pointed arches, gold lettering and the symbols of the church’s two patrons: a fleur-de-lis representing the Blessed Virgin Mary and a shell representing St. John the Baptist.

The fleur-de-lis and the shell can be spotted everywhere: in the intricate ceiling paintings, in the ceiling arches. Father Winslow said his intent was to cover the ceiling with these symbols as a “mantle of protection” for the parish.

The focal point of the sanctuary, the crucifix, is set off by dark paneling in the shape of a Franciscan cross. Above it, a medallion with a gilded dove representing the Holy Spirit is inscribed with God’s words “This is my beloved Son. Listen to Him.” The sanctuary is rich with symbolism – and all of

the elements depict the story of salvation history, Father Winslow says.

He says the renovation project has also been a rejuvenation of the parish, and members plan many centennial year events to draw them closer to God and each other. One of those events was a supper on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception – notable to the parish because that’s when the new marble altar was dedicated by Bishop Peter J. Jugis three years ago and became the springboard for all the work since.

A few finishing touches remain – a stained glass window here, some finishing wood trim there. But for the most part, the makeover of the church is complete just as the centennial year dawns.

Father Winslow says he hopes the refurbished church will inspire parishioners just as the church’s 100-year-old foundation stone states: “U.I.O.G.D.,” short for “Ut in omnibus glorificetur Deus” (“That in all things God may be glorified”).

The statues of St. Joseph and Mary to the right and left of the altar were placed in custom-designed niches carved by parishioner Andy Hayden. They are set off from the background with a rich tapestry and subtle backlighting.

The new high altar, dedicated in 2007, was the first step in the church’s renovation process. Made of Carrara marble, it features the scene of St. John the Baptist baptizing Jesus at the river Jordan.

Leah Justice | Tryon Daily Bulletin, Patricia Guilfoyle | Catholic News Herald

The woodwork design draws one’s eye straight to Christ crucified.

Spanning the entire sanctuary ceiling in gold is the inscription “Solvite templum hoc et in tribus diebus excitabo illud,” from the Gospel of John 2:19 (“Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.”)

Leah Justice | Tryon Daily Bulletin

Jacob Wolfe worked for several summers installing and staining the wood panels that now grace the sanctuary of his parish church, St. John the Baptist Church in Tryon. Wolfe, who is studying furniture design at Appalachian State University, hopes to make a career out of this type of work. The 22-year-old has already been asked to do other projects, but first he wants to apprentice in Rome or Florence, learning more about sculpture and frescoes.

The gilded walnut medallion over the crucifix states: “This is my beloved Son. Listen to Him.” Father Winslow said he deliberately chose to feature God’s spoken words in the New Testament, from Christ’s baptism and His resurrection.

Several places around the church feature the symbols of the church’s two patrons: a shell for St. John the Baptist, and a fleur-de-lis for the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The coffered ceiling was accented with custom painting done

by Wolfe and his friend Tyler Grobowski. The symbols of the fleur-de-lis and the shell are continued through the design, and where the lights have been suspended is painted a symbol of Christ as the Light.

The coffers for the ceiling were carved from walnut and brushed with a dark stain for contrast. One set of beams features a gilded fleur-de-lis design, the other a gilded shell design. The formerly white walls were painted and etched with a faux-stone treatment.

Our schools

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December 10, 2010 | charlottediocese.org/catholicnews

charlottediocese.org/catholicnews | December 10, 2010 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

BMHS food drive a success

In Brief

KERNERSVILLE — The Peer Ministers at Bishop McGuinness High School In Kernersville held a food drive during November to benefit Catholic Social Services. The students donated, sorted, collected, loaded and delivered just shy of 8,000 cans and boxes of non-perishable food items.

Honoring our veterans

— Katie Boswell

Pre-K marks 10th anniversary

Sacred Heart collects canned food SALISBURY — Sacred Heart Catholic School students, faculty and staff brought in more than 2,400 cans for their annual canned food drive this year. Most of the cans and boxes of food went into Thanksgiving baskets prepared annually by Mercy Sister Mary Robert. The rest will go to Rowan Helping Ministries’ food pantry.

The Student Government Association, led

by Karen Wenker, Ilse Cardelle and Kay Paul, hosts the canned food drive each year to remind students about other people’s needs in their own county. The children dressed up as different foods, such as pizza and hot dogs, during the afternoon pick-up times to remind parents to bring in boxes and cans.

The eighth-grade class won first prize with more than 300 cans brought in by 14 students.

Meghan Hedgepeth, Joseph Dufour and Gabe Dufour were the three top individual winners.

— Lisa Clark

HUNTERSVILLE — St. Mark Catholic Preschool is celebrating its 10th year. Founded in 2001 to serve the educational and spiritual needs of St. Mark Church’s youngest children, the preschool provides a warm and loving atmosphere within a safe environment for children where they can grow spiritually, physically, mentally and emotionally – nourishing the seeds of the Catholic faith planted at baptism. The preschool is directed

by Jane Petriella. Classes follow a daily schedule which includes circle time, free play, craft time, story time, music and movement, snack and outdoor play.

photo provided by Donna Birkel

Helping our littlest neighbors Pre-kindergarten students at St. Leo School in Winston-Salem recently collected items to donate to Mudpies Child Development Center, a local non-profit organization founded in 1970 to support families in Forsyth, Davie, Davidson and Stokes counties. The center helps meet the developmental needs of their children from infancy through school-age.

— Mary Stapleton

CCHS students participate in band clinic CHARLOTTE — Five students in Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools’ instrumental music program participated in the 30th annual Winthrop University Invitational Band Clinic in Rock Hill last month. Katherine Williamson, Lily Crawford, Angela Small, Bridget Wasowski and Kyle Burns, all of Charlotte Catholic High School, participated in the event held on the campus of Winthrop University in Rock Hill. Dr. William Malambri, director of bands at Winthrop University, hosted the event.

Begun in 1992, the MACS instrumental music program now enrolls nearly 500 students in grades 4-12. Depending on students’ ages and experience levels, the program provides basic instruction and performance and competition experience in concert, symphonic, marching and jazz bands.

photo provided by Karen L. Hornfeck

The Nov. 10 Mass at Our Lady of Grace School in Greensboro was offered in honor of all U.S. veterans.

Father John Eckert was the celebrant, and Jane McDonald’s first-grade students shared the Scripture readings and Prayers of the Faithful. The students also presented the offertory gifts. The school choir provided music and assisted the first-grade students in a special musical meditation honoring veterans.

At the end of Mass, the students presented the veterans with American flags that they had made. Pictured are first-graders with the flags they made.

CHARLOTTE — The “Global Safari” came to St. Ann School Nov. 29, made possible by a grant from the Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools

IHM forms living rosary

— Mendy Yarborough

Holy Trinity wins tournament Pythons on parade during safari

— Barbara Russell

HIGH POINT — To commemorate the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary Oct. 7, Immaculate Heart of Mary School students and staff in High Point celebrated a living rosary, led by the eighth grade and the middle school students.

Education Foundation. Students listened as safari guides showcased live animals and talked about the cultural artifacts from each continent that the animals represented. The students learned about the crested porcupine, prairie dog, python, legless lizard, yellow-foot tortoise, and Madagascar cockroaches. At left, Isaiah Denis, Anna Pham, Faith Little, Paul Shukes and Caitlin Wende volunteered to hold the python for all to see.

— Lisa B. Horton

Suzanne Cona | Catholic News Herald

Charlotte Catholic High School recently honored the veterans on its faculty. Pictured are (from left) Greg Tucker, U.S. Army; Bob Sherman, U.S. Air Force; and Steve Carpenter, U.S. Navy.

CHARLOTTE — The seventh-grade Holy Trinity Middle School boys basketball team won the Golden Corral Christmas Classic Tournament, “B” bracket, against York Preparatory School Dec. 4, by a score of 50-35.

— Jennifer Amico

catholic news heraldI

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Mix

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charlottediocese.org/catholicnews | December 10, 2010 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

In theaters

On TV n Sunday, Dec. 12, 10-11 p.m. EST (EWTN) “Damien Making a Difference, God Making a Saint.” Jozef De Veuster (1840-1889) was a Catholic priest from Belgium and a member of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. At the age of 33, Father Damien, as he was known in religious life, was sent to minister to the lepers on Molokai, Hawaii. In recognition of the heroic sanctity he displayed in caring for leprosy sufferers, Father Damien was canonized in 2009.

‘Love & Other Drugs’ Misguided romance – based on Jamie Reidy’s 2005 memoir “Hard Sell: The Evolution of a Viagra Salesman” – in which a womanizing pharmaceuticals seller (Jake Gyllenhaal) and an artist (Anne Hathaway) afflicted with Parkinson’s disease hook up for commitmentfree sex and gradually find love. Strong sexual content, offscreen group sex and masturbation, fleeting pornographic images, partial nudity, profanity and pervasive rough language.

CNS: O (morally offensive): MPAA: R CNS | Fox

‘Faster’ Sour revenge flick in which a paroled convict (Dwayne Johnson) hunts down and slays those responsible for his brother’s death at the hands of a rival gang. On his trail are a scrofulous drug-addicted detective (Billy Bob Thornton) and a suave British assassin (Oliver JacksonCohen). Multiple scenes of murderous revenge, slow-motion gun and knife violence, drug use, profanity.

CNS: O (morally offensive): MPAA: R

‘Burlesque’ Initially pleasant but ultimately sordid musical tracing the rise of an Iowa farm girl (Christina Aguilera) as she moves to Los Angeles and becomes first a waitress and then – thanks to her knock-’em-dead voice – a star performer at a burlesque club. She’s cheered on by a friendly co-worker (Cam Gigandet) – with whom romantic sparks are bound to fly, his faraway fiancee notwithstanding. Eventually, she’s taken under the wing of the establishment’s financially beleaguered owner (Cher). Benign view of premarital sex and homosexuality, possible acceptance of abortion, an out-ofwedlock pregnancy, fleeting rear nudity, often suggestive dancing, profanity and crude language.

CNS: O (morally offensive): MPAA: PG-13

‘Skyline’ Apocalyptic yarn (with sequels ahead) about invading aliens in Los Angeles with an insatiable appetite for human brains.

CNS: A-III (adults); MPAA: PG-13

Georgie Henley is pictured with a lion named Aslan, voiced by Catholic actor Liam Neeson, in the movie “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader.” Neeson said he thinks the magical lion of C.S. Lewis’ film represents Christ as well as other great spiritual leaders.

Neeson: Narnia’s Aslan the lion represents great spiritual leaders Simon Caldwell Catholic News Service

LONDON — Catholic actor Liam Neeson said he thinks the magical lion of C.S. Lewis’ “The Chronicles of Narnia” series not only represents Christ but also symbolizes other great spiritual leaders.

Neeson is the voice of Aslan the lion in “The Voyage of the Dawn Treader,” a 20th-Century Fox film that opens in U.S. theaters Dec. 10.

At a Dec. 2 news conference, Neeson explained what the character meant to him.

“As we know, C.S. Lewis, who wrote the books, was a famous atheist who then became a famous convert to Christianity. I have read quite a lot of his books other than ‘The Chronicles of Narnia.’

Yes, Aslan symbolizes a Christ-like figure, but he also symbolizes for me Mohammed, Buddha and all the great spiritual leaders and prophets over the centuries,” he said. “That’s who Aslan stands for as well as a mentor figure for kids – that’s what he means for me.”

Walter Hooper, C.S. Lewis’ former secretary and a trustee of his estate, criticized Neeson’s assessment and said Lewis would have been outraged by the claim.

“Lewis would have simply denied that,” Hooper said. “He (Lewis) wrote that the ‘whole Narnian story is about Christ.’ It is nothing whatever to do with Islam. Lewis could not have been clearer.”

Hooper said that Lewis, an Anglican, had offered Aslan “as an answer to the question: What would Christ, the Son of God, be like if he had been born in the land of Narnia instead of being born in Bethlehem?”

He attributed Neeson’s remarks to “political correctness” and a desire to be “very multicultural,” Neeson adding: “I don’t know Liam Neeson or what he is thinking about ... but it was not Lewis’ intention.”

Clive Staples Lewis, a native of Belfast, Northern Ireland, wrote the seven books of “The Chronicles of Narnia” between 1949 and 1954, and millions of copies have been sold around the world.

The series is infused with Lewis’ Christian beliefs. The climax of “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” first of the books, sees Aslan sacrificing his life to save Narnia from the grip of the evil white witch before rising triumphantly from the dead.

NARNIA, SEE page 17

Our nation

December 10, 2010 | charlottediocese.org/catholicnews

In Brief

‘The protection of marriage: A shared commitment’

Seattle archbishop installed

SEATTLE — Saying the name of Jesus should be on the lips of Catholics in all parts of their lives, Archbishop J. Peter Sartain was installed Dec. 1 as the fifth archbishop and ninth bishop of the Archdiocese of Seattle. More than 2,200 people packed St. James Cathedral for the installation of the 58-year-old prelate. The congregation broke into prolonged applause when he accepted the pastoral staff from his predecessor, Archbishop Alex J. Brunett, 76, who retired after 13 years of leading western Washington’s 972,000 Catholics. A native of Memphis, Tenn., he most recently was bishop of the Diocese of Joliet, Ill., where he had served since 2006.

He said in his homily that a bishop’s n Monday, Dec. 13, duty to his flock is to follow Jesus, and 9-10 p.m. EST (PBS) that the name of Jesus should be on “Christmas at Concordia people’s lips everywhere.

-- Journey To Bethlehem.”

“As we go through the day, we Holiday musical special should pray His name silently to remind combining the pageantry ourselves of His nearness and seek His of opera, the grandeur protection,” he said. of choral-orchestral masterworks and the intimacy of solos and duets (TV-G – general audience).

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The Catholic Conference of Illinois, which represents n Wednesday, Dec. 15, the state’s bishops on public policy 8-9 p.m. EST (PBS) matters, said it regretted recent “Christmas With the Mormon Tabernacle Choir passage of a bill legalizing civil unions for same-sex couples. The legislation Featuring Natalie Cole provides spousal rights to sameand David McCullough.” sex partners in a civil union and Grammy Award-winner Natalie Cole and Pulitzer grants them legal rights in surrogate decision-making for medical treatment, Prize-winner David survivorship, adoptions, and accident McCullough join the and health insurance. Gov. Pat Quinn, a Mormon Tabernacle supporter of the measure, has said he Choir for a Christmas will sign it into law. celebration (TV-G – The Catholic conference said the general audience). measure will “explicitly grant these unions the same status as marriage n Friday, Dec. 17, 10-11:30 p.m. EST (EWTN) “Ocean in state law. Marriage is not just any relationship between human beings. of Mercy.” This special Marriage has been established by our tells the story of three Creator in harmony with the nature great souls from Poland of man and woman and with its own – St. Maximilian Kolbe, essential properties and purpose,” the St. Faustina Kowalska, conference said in a statement. “The and Pope John Paul II – Church did not invent marriage and who together inspired countless souls to believe neither has any state. No ideology can erase from the human spirit the in the mercy of God certainty that marriage exists solely despite the manifold between a man and a woman, who by difficulties of the 20th personal gift, proper and exclusive to century. themselves, mutually commit to each other in order to cooperate with God in John Mulderig is on the staff the procreation and upbringing of new of Catholic News Service. More human lives.” reviews are available online at www.usccb.org/movies.

— Catholic News Service

Illinois civil unions vote called regrettable

catholic news heraldI

Below is the full text of the open letter signed by 25 religious leaders from Anglican, Baptist, Catholic, Evangelical, Jewish, Lutheran, Mormon, Orthodox, Pentecostal and Sikh communities in the U.S., including the new president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, New York Archbishop Timothy Dolan:

CNS | Eric Risberg, pool via Reuters

Senior Judge Michael Daly Hawkins and Judges Stephen R. Reinhardt and N. Randy Smith of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco listen to oral arguments during a hearing on California’s Proposition 8 Dec. 6. Proposition 8, defining marriage as a union of one man and one woman, was approved by California voters in 2008. However, in August it was ruled unconstitutional by a lower court.

Court hears appeal on Proposition 8 Religious leaders call for support of traditional marriage George Raine Catholic News Service

SAN FRANCISCO — A three-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco Dec. 6 took up the question of the constitutionality of California’s voter-approved ban on same-sex marriage, a hearing that may well be a prelude to a U.S. Supreme Court ruling on the issue.

A group of faith-based supporters of Proposition 8, including Catholics, is appealing an Aug. 4 ruling

by U.S. District Court Judge Vaughn Walker that the initiative is unconstitutional under the due process and equal protection clauses of the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Proposition 8 – approved by more than 7 million voters in 2008 – provides that only marriage between a man and a woman is valid in California.

It overturned a 2008 California Supreme Court ruling that permitted same-sex unions.

In a separate ruling Aug. 12, Walker said same-sex marriages in California could resume, but four days later a three-judge panel of the 9th Circuit stayed that ruling, preventing such marriages while the case could be appealed.

It was another three-judge panel of the appellate court that heard the oral arguments this week, but it may be several months before the judges issue a ruling, which could then be appealed to the full circuit court or directly to the Supreme Court.

The judges could conclude, however, that Proposition 8 supporters lack the legal standing to appeal. The hearing was devoted first to the question of standing and then the constitutionality issue, and the judges sharply questioned whether the supporters of the initiative could demonstrate they have been harmed by it.

In arguing the constitutionality question, the Proposition 8 supporters stressed that the support PROP 8, SEE page 17

Dear Friends, Marriage is the permanent and faithful union of one man and one woman. As such, marriage is the natural basis of the family. Marriage is an institution fundamental to the well-being of all of society, not just religious communities.

As religious leaders across different faith communities, we join together and affirm our shared commitment to promote and protect marriage as the union of one man and one woman.

We honor the unique love between husbands and wives; the indispensable place of fathers and mothers; and the corresponding rights and dignity of all children.

Marriage thus defined is a great good in itself, and it also serves the good of others and society in innumerable ways. The preservation of the unique meaning of marriage is not a special or limited interest but serves the good of all.

Therefore, we invite and encourage all people, both within and beyond our faith communities, to stand with us in promoting and protecting marriage as the union of one man and one woman.

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Our world

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December 10, 2010 | charlottediocese.org/catholicnews

charlottediocese.org/catholicnews | December 10, 2010 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

U.S. Vatican embassy condemns ‘harmful’ WikiLeaks

In Brief Pope meets Iraqi Catholics receiving medical aid VATICAN CITY — Pope Benedict XVI met privately Dec. 1 with two dozen Iraqis who were injured when their cathedral in Baghdad was attacked Oct. 31.

In early November, the Italian foreign ministry arranged for 26 injured Iraqis – including three children – and 21 accompanying family members to fly to Rome. The injured were treated at the Gemelli Hospital and their family members were housed in apartments belonging to the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, which runs the hospital. The 50 or so Iraqis will remain until mid-December, said Nicola Cerbino, hospital spokesman. After that, the Italian foreign ministry will help them return home or settle elsewhere. Fifty-eight people died in the attack on the Syrian Catholic church Oct. 31.

Kevin J. Jones CNA/EWTN News

Pope appeals for prayers for Chinese Catholics VATICAN CITY — Pope Benedict XVI asked people to pray for Catholics in China, who “are living through particularly difficult times.” With a group of Catholics from mainland China in the front rows of the Vatican audience hall Dec. 1, Pope Benedict asked for prayers of support for “all the Chinese bishops, who are so dear to me, so that they would witness to their faith with courage, placing all their hope in the Savior whom we await.” The pope’s appeal included no explicit mention of the fact that 10 days earlier, a bishop was ordained in China without papal approval. Under close surveillance from local government officials Nov. 20, Father Joseph Guo Jincai was illicitly ordained bishop of Chengde – the first bishop ordained without papal approval in four years. The pope entrusted to Mary “all the Catholics of that beloved country so that with her intercession they can realize an authentic Christian existence in communion with the universal Church.”

As cardinal, pope asked for faster action against abusive priests VATICAN CITY — A newly disclosed letter reveals that in 1988, the future Pope Benedict XVI pressed for swifter and more streamlined procedures to punish priests guilty of “grave and scandalous conduct.” The letter, written by thenCardinal Joseph Ratzinger when he was head of the Vatican’s doctrinal congregation, expressed concern that the process for dealing with such priests took too long and was seen more as a favor than a punishment. Eventually, with Cardinal Ratzinger’s involvement, the penal procedures were simplified and sanctions were strengthened.

But in 1988, the cardinal’s suggestion of a “more rapid and simplified penal process” was rebuffed by the Vatican’s canon law experts. The letter was published Dec. 1 by the Vatican newspaper, L’Osservatore Romano.

— Catholic News Service

CNS | Paul Haring

Worker decorates Vatican’s Christmas tree in St. Peter’s Square A worker decorates the Vatican’s Christmas tree in St. Peter’s Square Dec. 7. The Christmas season kicked off in Rome Dec. 8 with the celebration of the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception.

ROME — The U.S. Embassy to the Holy See has condemned “in the strongest terms” the unauthorized disclosure of State Department cables possessed by WikiLeaks. Disclosure of the cables’ contents could be harmful to individuals and international relations, the embassy said.

More than 800 cables in the WikiLeaks “Cablegate” project appear to involve the Vatican. More than 700 were labeled as originating at the U.S. Embassy to the Holy See, a CNA analysis of preliminary data found.

The cables’ subject labels indicate they involve issues regarding intelligence, national security, the Vatican’s internal governance and Vatican relations with the U.S. State Department. Human rights and religious freedom were among the most numerous subject labels.

Vatican-related cables also involve other countries including China, Cuba, Iraq, Israel, Venezuela and Vietnam.

Around 250,000 State Department cables were reportedly obtained by WikiLeaks, a self-described non-profit media organization. The organization says the documents will expose corruption and provide “unprecedented insight” into the U.S. government’s foreign activities.

Nancy M. McNally, the State Department’s public affairs program assistant for the U.S. Embassy to the Holy See, sent CNA an e-mail response Dec. 3: “While we cannot speak to the authenticity of any documents provided to the press, the Embassy condemns in the strongest terms any unauthorized disclosure of classified information that could have harmful implications on the individuals mentioned and on global engagement in general between nations.”

The embassy’s response said the U.S. and the Vatican have “a very productive diplomatic relationship” on religious freedom and human rights issues.

“As for our partnership with the Holy See, we plan to continue our work in advancing human rights and religious freedom – along with other important initiatives. The unauthorized disclosure of any classified information will not change that.”

Noting the U.S.’s three decades of diplomatic relations with the Holy See, the U.S. embassy said it expected to continue this “close partnership.”

PROP 8: FROM PAGE 15

of a majority of voters reflects the notion that “the people themselves are a tribunal,” said Charles J. Cooper, a Washington, D.C., lawyer representing the supporters of the initiative.

NARNIA: FROM PAGE 14

The themes of “The Voyage of the Dawn Treader,” the third of the books to be made into a film, involve the Christian themes of temptation, sin and redemption.

The story follows the adventures of Edmund and Lucy Pevensie and their obnoxious cousin, Eustace Scrubbs, as they sail to the end of the world in search of seven missing Narnian lords. Throughout their journey, the mysterious presence of Aslan guides the children, helping them to avoid evil and to do good, and heals them on the occasions when they succumb to temptation.

Neeson, who comes from Ballymena in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, also gave his voice to Aslan in the earlier two Narnia movies: “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” in 2005 and “Prince Caspian” in 2008.

He has spoken publicly of his admiration for “The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola,” written by the founder of the Jesuits.

SERVERS: FROM PAGE 3

Mass. So the more often our altar servers have a chance to serve, the more exposure they are given,” he said.

Canon law and Church teaching also allow girls to serve at the altar, because altar servers assist at Mass in much the same way that readers and extraordinary ministers of holy Communion do. Even if vocations are not the primary aim, for both boys and girls serving at Mass can be a way of becoming involved as lay people, particularly in smaller churches or where there is a pastoral need.

Altar servers act as cross bearers, acolytes, incense bearers and torch or candle bearers.

Some servers also assist the priest by holding the sacramentary at Mass as the various prayers are read. When serving Mass for a bishop, even more servers (called “vimps”) are assigned to hold his crozier and his miter.

In most parishes, altar server training is overseen by a deacon. If you know of a young person interested in becoming an altar server, contact your parish’s office for details.

At a news conference, he added, “For the plaintiffs in this case to prevail, they have to show that all of the state and federal appellate courts that have addressed this issue – all of whom supported marriage laws and have rejected the same arguments essentially that have been advanced here – that those decisions were irrational and that a large majority of the population of this country is irrational, behaving not in good faith. That position, we believe, is not

sustainable and not valid.”

As the appeals court hearing began, New York Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan joined 25 other religious leaders in renewing their commitment to protect traditional marriage.

The Dec. 6 letter was signed by Catholic, Anglican, Baptist, evangelical, Lutheran, Mormon, Orthodox and Sikh leaders.

“Today is the moment to stand for marriage and its unchangeable meaning,” Archbishop Dolan, president of the U.S.

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Conference of Catholic Bishops, said.

“The broad consensus reflected in this letter ... is clear: The law of marriage is not about imposing the religion of anyone, but about protecting the common good of everyone,” he said. “People of any faith or no faith at all can recognize that when the law defines marriage as between one man and one woman, it legally binds a mother and father to each other and their children, reinforcing the foundational cell of human society.”

ViewPoints

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New site offers resources for Advent and Christmas WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops is continuing its tradition of providing resources for the Advent and Christmas seasons with suggestions for daily prayer, reading, reflection and action, all found online at www.usccb.org/advent.

As a special spiritual gift this season, the USCCB is providing a downloadable book of Scriptural reflections for Advent and Christmas featuring the words of Pope Benedict XVI from his homilies, speeches and other addresses during his papacy.

The 37-page document includes a Scripture quote and a reflection from the Holy Father for every day of Advent up to the seventh day in the Octave of Christmas, Dec. 31. “Advent and Christmas with Pope Benedict XVI” is a preview of the upcoming Vatican publication “A Year with Pope Benedict XVI,” which will be available from the USCCB. “This has become one of the more popular features on the bishops’ Web site,” said Helen Osman, secretary of communications for the USCCB. “It is a great one-stop resource for families and individuals seeking ways to enter more deeply into the spirit of the Advent and Christmas seasons.”

Other material highlighted in the interactive online Advent and Christmas calendars is from the Vatican publication “Advent and Christmas with the Church Fathers” and “Reflections on Advent and Christmas: Cultivating the Gift of Self,” new releases which are available from the USCCB. A Festival of Lesson and Carols, which is a service of Scripture and song that dates to the late 19th century, can be heard live online or downloaded for later listening. The audio program features music performed by the Choir of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

Other resources include a list of recommended holiday-themed movies, prayers and blessings from the USCCB publication “Catholic Household Blessings and Prayers,” and suggestions for remembering the immigrants and the poor throughout the season.

The Web site www.usccb.org/advent was created by the USCCB with funding from the Catholic Communication Campaign.

catholic news heraldI

December 10, 2010 | charlottediocese.org/catholicnews

Advent: Week 3, Dec. 12

Denise Bossert

W

hen I was young, a friend invited me to pass the day with her on their Iowa farm.

Her mother was a member of my dad’s Presbyterian congregation. While I was there, my friend’s mom stated adamantly that she didn’t think she needed to go to church on Sunday. “You can worship God anywhere ... just go outside and see the beauty all around. You can worship God without church,” she said, then asked me what I thought.

I remember feeling uncomfortable. As a preacher’s daughter, I felt she thought that if I couldn’t “win” the argument, then she was justified.

All I could come up with was a lame defense of my dad’s sermons. I always thought they were pretty good. Obviously, other people didn’t like them as much as I did. What else could I use to defend church attendance? She could turn on a radio and get some Christian music. She could read the Bible at home.

What I would have given right then to be able to pull out a quote by St. John Chrysostom: “You cannot pray at home as at church, where there is a great multitude, where exclamations are cried out to God as from one great heart, and where there is something more: the union of minds, the accord of souls, the bond of charity, the prayers of the priests” (CCC 2179).

OK, so our Presbyterian church didn’t have priests, but the rest would have sounded great.

For Catholics, it is much easier to support Sunday church attendance. We don’t subscribe to a simplistic “Jesus and me” faith, for starters. Our faith is ecclesial and universal. The prayers we Closing prayer: pray and the Scriptures we read at Mass are the (Leader may read all, or others in the household may each read a segment) same the world over. We are quite literally all on the same page. We are one.

We also believe in Communion – union with Jesus Christ in the Eucharist.

(1.) Dear God, you know that our hearts long for the joy and Many Protestants cannot understand this reason gladness promised by life with you. Help us to remember that you we go to Mass. They don’t have Communion every are with us always, and that our hearts will rest only when they Sunday, and most think Holy Communion is merely rest with you. a symbol. We know in the Liturgy of the Eucharist that the priest has been given the special grace to (2.) Holy Spirit, guide the choices we make throughout this pray the prayer of consecration and bring to us the week. Help us endure hardship. Remind us to be patient. Stifle Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus Christ. our tendency to complain. Help us realize how much we owe the One might still disregard going to Mass, Creator for all we have and all we are. although that is a serious sin and a desire to be obedient to God should draw us to Mass even if we (3.) Father in heaven, we offer thanks to you for sending John can think of no other reason to go. But the greater the Baptist to prepare the way for the coming of the Savior. Help question is, why would you want to skip Mass? us to heed the Baptist’s message to repent and to renew our Some may ask, what do I get out of Mass? We commitment to live in holiness. receive Jesus Christ!

Just because I can worship God anywhere doesn’t (4.) Come Lord Jesus. So often we are impatient for your coming, mean I should skip the greatest gift ever given: Our yet we are fearful of living our lives as one with you. Come and ease our anxiety. Come and reward our patience. Come and remove Lord. The Mass is a case for worshipping as one, our sorrow. Our communities and our world eagerly await the day then taking that gift into the world. of your birth.

Denise Bossert of New Melle, Mo., blogs at catholicbygrace.

— Reprinted with permission from The Catholic Spirit of St. Paul, Minn. blogspot.com. She will appear on EWTN’s “Women of Grace” at 11 a.m.

Thursday, Dec. 16.

The following Advent wreath prayer is intended to help busy families make Advent a prayerful time during the rush of Christmas preparations Leader: With the beginning of this Third Week of Advent, we’re more than half way home to Christmas. We gather again to pray so that our hearts are truly prepared for the Birth of the Child Jesus.

Light three candles on the Advent wreath Read aloud: Isaiah 35:1-6a, 10; James 5:7-10; Matthew 11:2-11 (Leader may read all, or others in the household may each proclaim a reading.)

Leader: In our readings this Third Week of Advent Isaiah again foretells the coming of the Savior. He leaves us with a vision of how marvelous heaven will be for those who live a holy life. The letter from James is like something out of a locker room speech in which a coach urges a team to be patient, to put up with the hardships that will come their way and not to complain. Matthew retells the story of Jesus explaining the role of John the Baptist to the curious crowds. He tells the throng – and us, today, too – that even as great as John the Baptist is, if we live so as to have a place in the kingdom of heaven, we will be even greater.

The greatest gift ever given

“

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Catholic moral teaching can be summarized in one apostrophe

Deacon, did your wife forget again to give you your medicine this morning?”

I was teaching “Character and Moral Theology” in a seminary and had just told the seminarians that I could compress all Catholic moral teaching into one punctuation mark. The class laughed (I used to get that reaction a lot). I insisted that I was being serious, and that they would be tested on it. Now I had their attention.

“All Catholic moral teaching is captured in one apostrophe!” I grandly announced. In return, I got a blank look from everyone in the class.

The apostrophe usually denotes possession, I said. “It is the bicycle of Bob” becomes “It is Bob’s bike.” So we are either gods or God’s. We either arrogantly elevate ourselves to deities or, by using an apostrophe, we acknowledge that we belong to God. That is the “fons et origo,” the beginning point, of all Catholic moral thought: we are not gods; rather, we are God’s. Get that wrong and we get everything else wrong. Get that right, and we are on the right track.

The seminarians, of course, began each day with the Liturgy of the Hours. I asked them if they ever saw a common theme among the four invitatory psalms – 95, 100, 67 and 24, one of which usually starts Morning Prayer. The common theme is that we are God’s: “The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein” (Ps 24:1).

I asked them to consider the Ten Commandments. “You guys do remember the Ten Commandments, right?” That got me smilingly nasty looks.

They knew by heart my next line: “There’s trouble a-plenty in Exodus 20.”

There’s trouble for us if we think of the Commandments only as nice ideas. “I am the Lord your God. ... You shall have no other gods before me” (Ex 20:2-3, Deut 5:7). We all need to remember that we are to “keep [the Commandments] and do them; for that will be [our] wisdom” (Deut 4:6). When we forget whose we are, we forget who we are; when we renounce our owner, we abandon our heritage; when we depart from His directions, we lose our destination.

The seminarians knew what was coming next. I wanted an image to flesh out the words. They got it: the “Tower of Babel” (in Genesis, although that name doesn’t appear in the Scripture), in which the builders planned to “make a name for ourselves.” The Towel of Babel is a powerful image of pride. The opposite image can be found in Psalm 127: “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.” It’s not “our” house, it’s His house. It’s not “our” life, it’s His life. It’s not “our” Church, it’s His Church. Even the Holy Father can’t change the deposit of faith; he is its steward and its guard (cf. 2 Tim 1:14).

The seminarians smiled, this time knowingly. That is what makes teaching worthwhile, I thought.

I continued: Sin is rooted in the idea that we come before God. The first deadly, or capital, sin is pride.

Look at the Catechism (especially 1866, which lists the seven capital sins and subsequently explains the consequences of sinning and of consenting to sin).

There is a reason that the First

Deacon Jim Toner Commandment is first! Whenever what I want displaces what God wants (which we know through the “three Ts”: sacred Text, sacred Teaching (the Magisterium) and sacred Tradition), we have violated the First Commandment.

Pride, the Catechism explains, “is undue self-esteem or self-love, which seeks attention and honor and sets oneself in competition with God.” There is nothing wrong with proper self-love. St. Paul is clear that “the whole law is fulfilled in one word. ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ But if you bite and devour one another, take heed that you are not consumed by one another” (Gal 5:14-15).

We can’t know ourselves or have peace until we know we are God’s, not gods.

“Deacon, you teach a good class,” responded a seminarian, “when you forget your meds!”

Deacon James H. Toner serves at Our Lady of Grace Church in Greensboro. He is the author of “The God Life: God’s Way” (K of C Veritas Series #315). His most recent book is “Worthy of the Promises: Building Catholic Character” (Borromeo Press).

New START treaty is imperative It was heartening to see the article from Catholic News Service in the Dec. 3 issue citing Bishop Howard Hubbard, chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on International Justice and Peace, urging U.S. senators to set aside politics and ratify the new Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) without delay in the

current session of Congress.

I was disappointed that there was no follow-up to this by appealing for readers to phone or e-mail our U.S. senators urging them to ratify START in support of our Church’s solidly-founded position condemning nuclear weapons as “a grave threat to human life and dignity.”

Contact our senators as follows: Sen. Richard Burr, 202-224-3154, and Sen. Kay Hagan, 202-224-6342. Both can be e-mailed via www.senate.gov.

Robert F. Howarth lives in Asheville.

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