Feb. 28, 2025

At a glance

FEBRUARY 28, 2025

VOLUME 34 • NUMBER 10 1123 S. CHURCH ST. CHARLOTTE, N.C. 28203-4003 catholicnews@rcdoc.org

704-370-3333

PUBLISHER

The Most Reverend

Michael T. Martin, OFM Conv., Bishop of Charlotte

INDEX

Arts & Entertainment 11

Contact us 2

Español 20-22

Our Diocese 4-17

Our Faith 3

Our Schools 12

Scripture 3, 22

U.S. news 23

AshCATHOLIC ALL WEEK

Timely tips for blending faith & life

Wednesday – which this year falls on March 5 – marks the start of the liturgical season of Lent. While it is not a holy day of obligation, it is a special day set aside for prayer, abstinence (refraining from eating meat), fasting (reducing your caloric intake) and repentance. But what do you know about this holy day, and how can observing it help you to “lean in” to experience a holier Lent?

STAFF

EDITOR: Trish Stukbauer

704-370-3335, tmstukbauer@rcdoc.org

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WHAT DO THE ASHES SYMBOLIZE?

Ash Wednesday evolved from the ancient Jewish tradition of penance and fasting. Ashes have long been a visible symbol of humanity’s grief that our sin caused division from God. Writings from the second century refer to the wearing of ashes on the head as a sign of penance. They were even applied after going to confession in the early Church. The ashes also symbolize the dust from which God made us. This is recalled when a priest applies the ashes to a person’s forehead and says: “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” Yet the ashes are also a symbol of our hope that God is gracious and merciful to those who call on Him with repentant hearts.

WHERE DO THE ASHES COME FROM?

The most visible sign of the Ash Wednesday service is the ashes themselves. Each parish typically makes its own from the palms that were blessed during the previous year’s Palm Sunday services. The palms are burned in a metal vessel and then broken down into a powder.

HOW DO WE CARRY IT FORWARD?

Ash Wednesday is just the start of the Lenten season, with its traditional pillars of prayer, fasting and almsgiving, so how do you carry the spirit of the day forward? Set aside some time on this day to talk with your family – or yourself – and set manageable, tangible goals for the Lenten season. It may be attending weekly Stations of the Cross as a family, working together on a service project, making a meatless meal from another country and learning about its history (See page 9 for one recipe and find more online), or blocking off daily time for more intense personal reflection and prayer.

Diocesan calendar of events

VIÑEDO DE RAQUEL : ¿Es usted o un ser querido que busca la curación de los efectos de un aborto anterior? Los retiros de fin de semana son ofrecidos por Caridades Católicas para hombres y mujeres en todas las regiones de la Diócesis de Charlotte. Para obtener información, comuníquese con Karina Hernández: 336-267-1937 o karinahernandez@live.com.

EVENTS

ARTS AT THE ABBEY, “CELEBRATING ALESSANDRO SCARLATTI”: 8 p.m. Monday, March 3, Belmont Abbey Basilica, 100 Belmont-Mt. Holly Road, Belmont. Alessandro Scarlatti wrote over 60 operas and is credited with developing the musical forms used in the Baroque period. Come share in music not heard much today. The free program will feature arias and a cantata, plus works with strings and recorder. PRAYER SERVICES

STATIONS OF THE CROSS : 6-8 p.m. Friday, March 14. Join a free immersive Stations of the Cross experience at the Holy Trinity Middle School gym, organized by the Charlotte and Salisbury vicariates’ youth ministry leaders. Parish groups and families are invited to come see, hear, touch and explore the Way of the Cross while enjoying hot pretzels and fellowship. For details, see the Events page on www.charlottediocese.org.

MARCH 1 – 10 A.M. Rite of Lector & Affirmation of Promises for Permanent Deacons

St. Patrick Cathedral, Charlotte

MARCH 3 – 10 A.M. Visit to Birthright of Charlotte Birthright of Charlotte

Scan the QR code for this week’s recommended prayers and activities.

Bishop Michael Martin, OFM Conv., will participate in the following events:

MARCH 5 – 12:10 P.M.

Ash Wednesday Mass

St. Patrick Cathedral, Charlotte

MARCH 16 – 9 A.M.

Patron Feast Day Mass

St. Patrick Cathedral, Charlotte

MARCH 19 – 10 A.M.

School Mass Bishop McGuinness High School, Kernersville

MARCH 19 – 1 P.M. School Visit Immaculate Heart of Mary School, High Point

MARCH 19 – 6:30 P.M. Parents Presentation Bishop McGuinness High School, Kernersville

Our faith

Pope Francis

Death is not the end for those who follow Christ

For those who recognize Christ as the savior, death is not an end or a form of “annihilation,” Pope Francis wrote in his general audience catechesis. It is a kind of “sister” that introduces the faithful departed to true life.

Like the previous Wednesday, the pope’s weekly general audience Feb. 26 was canceled because the pope was still hospitalized and no one was delegated to lead the gathering in the pope’s place. But the Vatican released the pope’s prepared text.

Matteo Bruni, director of the Vatican press office, told reporters that the pope prepared the catechesis “weeks in advance,” preempting speculation that the pope’s reflection on the Canticle of Simeon, which is used as a prayer at the time of death, was somehow connected to the pope’s current condition or hospitalization.

Pope Francis has been hospitalized since Feb. 14 and was diagnosed Feb. 18 with double pneumonia.

During the Holy Year 2025, the general audience talks have been focusing on “Jesus Christ our hope,” starting with a look at the Bible stories of Jesus’ infancy and childhood.

The pope’s catechesis Feb. 26 looked at Jesus’ presentation at the temple and how Simeon and Anna were also “pilgrims of hope” who recognized God’s presence and welcomed it with joy.

In his catechesis, the pope wrote, the Holy Spirit “breathes” in the temple and “speaks to the heart of an elderly man: Simeon … who nurtures the desire for the fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel by the prophets.”

Simeon perceives “the presence of the Lord’s Anointed One” and the “Prince of Peace” in the temple when he sees the baby Jesus, the pope wrote. Simeon “embraces that child who, small and helpless, rests in his arms; but it is he, in fact, who finds consolation and the fullness of his existence by holding him to himself.”

The pope quoted the canticle, which begins, “Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation,” which means Simeon is ready to die in peace now that he has seen the Messiah.

“Filled with this spiritual consolation, the elderly Simeon sees death not as the end, but as fulfillment, fullness,” Pope Francis wrote.

The pope asked Christians to imitate Simeon and Anna who are “’pilgrims of hope.’

Deal with anger before it turns to wrath

Alot of people are angry today, about a lot of different things. Some of that anger is justified. Some of it is not. Thus has it ever been.

My purpose here is not to talk about this or that thing that may make us angry, but to reflect on how we should deal with anger from a spiritual perspective.

It’s tricky business. Wrath, we are taught, is one of the seven deadly sins. But anger is an emotion. Emotions are not sins, but things we experience. We are not morally responsible for the feelings we have because we don’t choose them; but we are responsible for how we respond to them. Anger is a powerful emotion, so we must be especially careful when it comes to how we choose to act when we are angry. Unless the situation demands an immediate response, in most cases the prudent course will be to delay action until our anger subsides so that we can approach things with a cool head.

DOES ANGER SERVE A PURPOSE?

What purpose does anger serve? One may wonder why God would give us such a powerful and troubling emotion. The feeling of anger is a natural response to injustice, whether real or perceived. In that sense, anger can be good, functioning like pain in the body, alerting us to the fact that something is wrong.

Justice is the virtue of doing the right thing, what the Catechism calls “the constant and firm will to give their due to God and neighbor” (CCC 1807). Injustice occurs when someone acts in a way contrary to the good of others, or that disregards their natural rights and human dignity. Addressing a matter of injustice often requires courage and may involve some real risk on our part. A powerful emotion like anger can provide the motivation we need to stand up for what is right even if it costs us. This is how healthy anger is meant to function.

While there is such a thing as righteous anger, the problem is, as St. Francis de Sales observes in his Introduction to the Devout Life, everyone believes their anger to be righteous! “No angry man,” he writes, “ever thinks his anger is unjust.” As our emotions are not infallible, we must be on guard against making such presumptions. What if the injustice we perceive is false? What if what angers us is not an offense against

MARCH 2-8

Sunday: Sir 27:4-7, Ps 92:2-3, 13-14, 15-16, 1 Cor 15:54-58, Lk 6:39-45; Monday: Sir 17:20-24, Ps 32:1-2, 5, 6, 7, Mk 10:17-27; Tuesday: Sir 35:1-12, Ps 50:5-6, 7-8, 14, 23, Mk 10:28-31; Wednesday (Ash Wednesday): Joel 2:12-18, Ps 51:3-4, 5-6ab, 12-13, 14 and 17, 2 Cor 5:20-6:2, Mt 6:1-6, 16-18; Thursday: Deut 30:15-20, Ps 1:1-2, 3, 4 and 6, Lk 9:2225; Friday: Is 58:1-9a, Ps 51:3-4, 5-6ab, 18-19, Mt 9:14-15; Saturday: Is 58:9b-14, Ps 86:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, Lk 5:27-32

justice, but an offense against our pride? Anger is a powerful motivator, but a reckless driver. If our heart is troubled by anger, it is important not to permit our emotions to sit in the driver’s seat. Our actions should be directed by reason rather than feeling. Our emotions inform us but should not control us. Evaluating our emotions objectively is difficult but it is something we can learn to do.

QUESTIONS TO ASK

When we experience anger, there are helpful questions we should ask. First, why am I angry? Sometimes the cause is obvious, but other times it may be less apparent. The experience of trauma or loss may cause us to feel a general anger that is directed at no person in particular. This is a natural part of the grieving process and can be helped by counseling, therapy and time. As we deal with anger that stems from woundedness,

‘It is spiritually damaging for us to be confronted with a non-stop barrage of evil news we are in no position to do anything about.’

we should make every effort not to allow our anger to become an excuse to treat others uncharitably.

Anger can also be the result of wounded pride. It is important for us to ask: Are those I am angry with truly acting unjustly, or merely not doing things the way I would have them done? The remedy for prideful anger is to practice the virtue of humility. There is a powerful Litany of Humility prayer, composed by Rafael Cardinal Merry del Val, that includes petitions such as, “From the desire of being consulted, deliver me Jesus. From the desire of being approved, deliver me Jesus.”

What if our anger is a valid response to injustice? Even then, we must ask ourselves a further question: Am I in a position to do anything about it? If it involves a situation in our personal lives, we may be able to do something to resolve the matter. In that case, our actions should still be directed by justice and charity, never anger itself. If we cannot

MARCH 9-15

Sunday (First Sunday of Lent): Deut 26:4-10, Ps 91:1-2, 10-11, 12-13, 14-15, Rom 10:8-13, Lk 4:1-13; Monday: Lev 19:1-2, 11-18, Ps 19:8, 9, 10, 15, Mt 25:31-46; Tuesday: Is 55:10-11, Ps 34:4-5, 6-7, 16-17, 18-19, Mt 6:7-15; Wednesday: Jonah 3:1-10, Ps 51:3-4, 12-13, 18-19, Lk 11:29-32; Thursday: Est C:12, 14-16, 23-25, Ps 138:1-2ab, 2cde-3, 7c-8, Mt 7:7-12; Friday: Ez 18:21-28, Ps 130:1-2, 3-4, 5-7a, 7bc8, Mt 5:20-26; Saturday: Deut 26:16-19, Ps 119:1-2, 4-5, 7-8, Mt 5:43-48

reasonably resolve the matter, then our anger serves no further purpose. We should therefore let it go and entrust the situation to God. This holds true any time we are angry over situations beyond our personal control.

ANGER AS A TOOL OF MANIPULATION

A particular malady of our time is the immediate access we have to news reports, commentary and opinion, much of which is negative. Politicians and media moguls alike figured out long ago how to capitalize on anger. Those with a vested interest in motivating us to buy their papers, click on their links or vote a certain way often use anger as a tool of manipulation. It is spiritually damaging for us to be confronted with a non-stop barrage of evil news we are in no position to do anything about. This can leave us feeling not only angry, but helpless, leading to despair. Unless we are in a position to positively impact a situation, it is best to entrust these broader concerns to God’s loving providence and let go of our anger before it becomes a cancer in our hearts, festering into bitterness and hatred.

The scriptures tell us “be angry, but do not sin” (Eph 4:26). The emotion of anger becomes the sin of wrath when we latch onto it, nurture it, and allow it to take root in our heart. Anger can be like a powerful drug; we can become addicted to it.

St. Francis de Sales, by his own admission, struggled with a hot temper. Being aware of this aspect of his temperament, he made an intentional effort to always act with gentleness toward others, so much so that gentleness became his defining trait. His life stands as testimony that even something as strong as anger can be overcome through a combination of discipline and grace.

Jesus experienced righteous anger, as when He drove the money changers from the temple, but He always acted with justice and mercy. Let Christ therefore be our model. Our Lord warns us that whoever is angry with his brother is liable to judgment (Mt 5:22), and also invites us to “learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart” (Mt 11:29).

When anger rears its ugly head, may we seek refuge in the heart of Jesus and pray, “Lord, make my heart like unto Thine.”

DEACON MATTHEW NEWSOME, Catholic campus minister at Western Carolina University and regional faith formation coordinator for the Smoky Mountain Vicariate, is the author of “The Devout Life: A Modern Guide to Practical Holiness with St. Francis de Sales,” available from Sophia Institute Press.

MARCH 16-22

Sunday (Second Sunday of Lent): Gen 15:5-12, 17-18, Ps 27:1, 7-8, 8-9, 13-14, Phil 3:174:1 or Phil 3:20-4:1, Lk 9:28b-36; Monday: Dan 9:4b-10, Ps 79:8, 9, 11 and 13, Lk 6:36-38; Tuesday: Is 1:10, 16-20, Ps 50:8-9, 16bc-17, 21 and 23, Mt 23:1-12; Wednesday (St. Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary): 2 Sam 7:4-5a, 12-14a, 16, Ps 89:2-3, 4-5, 27 and 29, Rom 4:13, 16-18, 22, Mt 1:16, 18-21, 24a or Lk 2:41-51a; Thursday: Jer 17:5-10, Ps 1:1-2, 3, 4 and 6, Lk 16:19-31; Friday: Gen 37:3-4, 12-13a, 17b-28a, Ps 105:16-17, 18-19, 20-21, Mt 21:3343, 45-46; Saturday: Micah 7:14-15, 18-20, Ps 103:1-2, 3-4, 9-10, 11-12, Lk 15:1-3, 11-32

Newsome

Our diocese

Teens: Experience hope at upcoming Bishop’s Youth Pilgrimage

BELMONT — Attention, middle and high school students: You are invited to join Bishop Michael Martin for a day of hope, inspiration and fun at the 2025 Bishop’s Youth Pilgrimage on Saturday, April 12.

The teen rally and celebration – a prelude to the Diocese of Charlotte’s Eucharistic Congress coming up this fall – brings together hundreds of young people to Belmont Abbey College for worship, engaging talks, fellowship, live music, food and games. This year’s theme mirrors the Jubilee Year in the Church: “Pilgrims of Hope.”

In addition to Bishop Martin, headlining this year’s event are Benedictine Abbot Placid Solari of Belmont Abbey College, Catholic-based jazz and hip-hop artist Father Stan Fortuna, and motivational speaker and youth minister Katie Knoefel.

Abbot Placid has been a monk of Belmont Abbey since 1974. Today he serves as the spiritual leader for the Benedictine monastery and as chancellor of Belmont Abbey College, a top-ranked Catholic liberal arts college where he also continues to teach.

Father Fortuna is a member of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal in Bronx, New York. Ordained in 1990, he is a renowned jazz bass musician and recording artist. His primary apostolate is with youth, where he aims to inspire young people with love and enthusiasm for God and His people.

Knoefel is a North Carolina native and has worked in ministry at various parishes in the Charlotte area. A passionate evangelist and a gifted presenter, she brings a wealth of experience about encountering Jesus in our daily lives. The Bishop’s Youth Pilgrimage will kick off at 9 a.m. Saturday with live music and games, motivational speakers, Eucharistic Adoration, Mass, the opportunity to receive the sacrament of confession, and a Eucharistic Procession through the historic grounds of Belmont Abbey College to conclude the pilgrimage at 3 p.m. A $20 registration fee covers lunch and an event T-shirt. Don’t miss out! Register by Wednesday, April 2.

— Catholic News Herald

Register online

At www.goeucharist.com/bishops-youthpilgrimage Get more information about the 2025 Bishop’s Youth Pilgrimage and register to attend by April 2.

Belmont Abbey College president announces retirement

BELMONT — After 21 years at the helm, Dr. William Thierfelder has announced plans to retire as president of Belmont Abbey College. His last day will be Aug. 2 – the 21st anniversary to the day of his arrival on campus.

Under Thierfelder’s leadership, the Catholic liberal arts college west of Charlotte has gone through remarkable growth and transformation. It has expanded academic programs, opened five new residence halls and enhanced campus facilities to accommodate rising enrollment, launched and carried out an unprecedented $150 million capital campaign, reinvigorated its Catholic identity and strengthened community partnerships.

Last fall, the college recorded the fourth highest total enrollment in its history: a total of 1,687 enrolled students, a 2% increase over the prior academic year.

“Serving as president of Belmont Abbey College has been the joy of a lifetime,” Thierfelder said in his retirement announcement Feb. 20. “Together with an incredible team of administrators, faculty and staff, we have achieved tremendous milestones. I am deeply grateful to our students, alumni and supporters for their commitment to our shared mission. I have overwhelming gratitude to God for giving me this charge and the grace of the confidence to know that I am leaving the college a more secure, more stable and more faithful place dedicated to His mission.”

A licensed sports psychologist before coming to Belmont Abbey College, Thierfelder helped more than 100 Olympic and professional athletes achieve dramatic improvements in performance. He is also a former NCAA Division I coach, Olympian (he did not compete due to injury), national champion (Ireland) and a two-time AllAmerican in the high jump from the University of Maryland. He is a member of the Sports Faith International Hall of Fame.

Thierfelder said he was driven by his faith to join the mission of Belmont Abbey College in 2004. Inspired by an ad in a newspaper, he applied and, once hired, made it his life’s mission to strengthen the college for the glory of God – a reference to the Benedictine community and college’s motto, “That in all things God may be glorified.”

Chuck Cornelio, who chairs the college’s Board of Trustees, reflected on the impact of Thierfelder’s presidency.

“Belmont Abbey College would not be the wonderful place it is if not for Bill Thierfelder,” Cornelio said. “Bill’s leadership over the last two decades has been instrumental, and we congratulate and honor his faith-filled stewardship of our vibrant Catholic community.”

Benedictine Abbot Placid Solari, who serves as Belmont Abbey College’s chancellor and spiritual leader of the

Key achievements under Dr. Bill Thierfelder’s tenure

ACADEMICS

n Achieved an academic level change to award master’s degrees and launched eight programs

n Launched the nationally recognized Honors College

n Launched a Motorsports Business Management program

n Recognized as #1 teaching faculty in the South by U.S. News & World Report

ENROLLMENT

n Increased undergraduate enrollment from less than 500 to more than 1,600

n Grew on-campus residency by over 65%

n Achieved an all-time high in retention of 72%

FACILITIES

n 40 new or refurbished facilities, including Belmont House in Washington, D.C.

n Eight refurbished sports fields and playing venues

PHILANTHROPY

n More than $185 million raised since 2004

n Surpassed ‘Made True’ capital campaign’s original $100 million goal

ATHLETICS

n Instituted the Sport & Virtue approach in all athletic programs

n More than 65 teams won the Messik Award for best overall sportsmanship

n Grew athletics program to the seventh largest in the country, including adding 15 programs

COMMUNITY

n Spearheaded a relationship with CaroMont Health to build new medical campus

n Launched effort with a North Carolina state grant to build a performing arts center

n Helped launch the Benedictine Leadership Institute and Benedictine Leadership Award

n Served on the NCAA Presidents Council for five years

n Published two bestselling books: “Less Than a Minute to Go” and “MVP Hands”

‘Serving as president of Belmont Abbey College has been the joy of a lifetime.’

Dr.

William Thierfelder

community of Benedictine monks that founded the college in 1876, also thanked Thierfelder for his leadership and commitment.

“On behalf of all the monks of Belmont Abbey, I wish to express our profound gratitude to Dr. and Mrs. Thierfelder for their 21 years of generous and dedicated service to Belmont Abbey College,” he said in a statement. “We give thanks to God

for their leadership and devoted service to Belmont Abbey and Belmont Abbey College.”

Bishop Michael Martin, OFM Conv., added, “Bill Thierfelder has helped shape Belmont Abbey College for over 20 years, preparing students to take on the issues of our day with faith, hope and charity. His enthusiasm for Catholic education and for the growth and well-being of students is clear, and his personal faith and discipleship are inspiring. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with him, Abbot Placid and the Benedictine monks who make the abbey and college a gem that distinguishes our diocese and the southeastern United States.”

Thierfelder said he plans to return to Belmont Abbey College this fall to join the faculty after a short sabbatical.

The college said it plans to initiate a national search for Thierfelder’s successor, and to announce more details on the transition process in the coming months.

— Belmont Abbey College

Thierfelder

Fortuna

Knoefel

Solari Martin

DISCIPLE MAKER INDEX

Bishop Martin invites people to help craft diocese’s vision for future

Parish surveys open on

Ash Wednesday

CHARLOTTE — How well is your parish meeting your spiritual needs? Does it make you feel welcome? Are you receiving inspiration and guidance to help you grow closer to Jesus and share your faith?

Weigh in on these questions and more starting on Ash Wednesday, March 5, when every parish in the Diocese of Charlotte will launch the “Disciple Maker Index,” an online survey inviting you to reflect on your faith journey and assess your parish’s support in that journey.

Every Catholic adult in the diocese is invited to participate – whether you’re deeply involved, go to church only occasionally, or feel disconnected.

Youth raise voices in prayer, reflect on history at Black History Month Mass

CHRISTINA LEE KNAUSS clknauss@rcdoc.org

CHARLOTTE — Young people from Our Lady of Consolation Church raised their voices in praise to God and spoke aloud their pride in their heritage on Feb. 16 at the monthly youth Mass, which this month also was a celebration of Black History Month.

Between 50 and 60 young people were involved in planning the special Mass, including members of the parish’s Youth in Action group and the 20 members of the parish’s youth choir, who range in age from 5 to 17.

The liturgy was a chance for the congregation – the only historically Black Catholic church in Charlotte – to honor history and family, to reflect on the past and to look forward to the future.

The 15-minute survey, available in 19 languages, asks about your spiritual growth and your parish’s role in it. All responses are confidential and will be used to enhance the life and service of the local Church.

Each parish will share its specific survey link via its website, bulletin and other communications. Paper copies will be available.

The “Disciple Maker Index” survey will gather data on beliefs, parish participation, relationships and demographics, providing insight into the level of missionary discipleship at each parish – including the effectiveness of the Mass experience, preaching and other aspects of parish life. Parishes will get a snapshot of their community’s involvement and can compare results across the diocese and the nation.

It is part of a broader strategic planning initiative led by Bishop Michael Martin in partnership with the Catholic Leadership Institute, an international Catholic apostolate specializing in leadership training and pastoral governance. The CLI initiative, funded by a grant, encompasses extensive interviews and surveys with priests, employees and other stakeholders to evaluate the diocese’s operations, mission and opportunities for the local Church.

The initiative aims to identify strengths, equip parishes with feedback and tools, and empower ministry leaders to elevate their outreach and discipleship efforts.

Bishop Martin will use the information gathered through the initiative to develop a strategic pastoral vision for the diocese to help navigate the continued growth of the Church and help people better proclaim and live the Gospel.

“Your participation is vital in this visioning process and, as your new bishop, I hope I can count on your support,” Bishop Martin said in a video message on the diocese’s YouTube channel. “Don’t miss your chance to guide our future!”

— Catholic News Herald

Learn more

n WATCH BISHOP MARTIN: “How’s life in the Diocese of Charlotte – and more specifically, how are things going at your parish?” Bishop Martin introduces the strategic planning process in a video message on the Diocese of Charlotte’s YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/ dioceseofcharlotte).

n TAKE THE SURVEY: Don’t miss out! Check your parish’s website and bulletin for your parish’s specific Disciple Maker Index link. The survey opens on Ash Wednesday, March 5, and closes on Sunday, April 6.

n EVERYONE IS INVITED: Are you a Catholic adult living in the western half of North Carolina but don’t belong to a parish? Bishop Martin especially wants to hear from you! Go to www.charlottediocese.org to find the church nearest you and take the survey. It takes only 15 minutes and your responses are confidential.

Slips of paper that sat on the seats contained the words “Just like a tree planted by the water, we shall not be moved,” a nod to lines from the first reading (Jeremiah 17:5-8) and the responsorial psalm, which included the lines from Psalm 1:3 “He is like a tree planted near running water.”

(From top) The monthly youth Mass at Our Lady of Consolation Church on Feb. 16 was also a celebration of Black History Month. Members of the parish’s Youth in Action group and the 20 members of the parish’s youth choir spoke about history and looked forward to the future. Martin

The words were read aloud by the congregation as a reflection not only on the importance of relying on God for all things, but also on the perseverance African Americans have shown through slavery, the Jim Crow era, and dealing with racism and adversity in the current era, and on the role faith has played in their lives and culture.

In his homily, Father James Kang, pastor and a native of Cameroon, urged the congregation to find their true hope in Jesus.

“Human beings can break your trust in a way that destroys your heart,” he said. “You have only one heart – entrust it to God.”

After Communion, the congregation settled in for the youth celebration. Young people processed up the aisle holding posters representing important eras and personalities in Black history, as well as values like hope and character.

One by one, they described the significance of the images on their posters. They ranged from the sorrowful – an image of the first enslaved African brought to America in Virginia in 1619 – to the joyful, with descriptions of artistic achievements like the Harlem Renaissance and the landmark achievements of Madame C.J. Walker, the groundbreaking entrepreneur and philanthropist.

They reflected on Juneteenth, the national holiday that commemorates the day on June 19, 1865, when enslaved people in Texas finally learned they were free, and the achievements of the Tuskegee Airmen – the nation’s first Black military pilots – who served with distinction in World War II.

The congregation also heard the story of the late Julius Chambers, a native of North Carolina who practiced law in Charlotte and worked on several groundbreaking

civil rights cases while battling violence from the Ku Klux Klan and other white supremacists.

The young people in the choir sang inspiring songs with roots in African American history, including the refrain to “Ella’s Song,” a song dedicated to civil rights activist Ella Baker with the moving words “We who believe in freedom cannot rest.”

Parishioner Toni Tupponce,

who leads the parish’s Black Culture Commission and the music ministry, said preparation for the Mass took about a month. She said it was important to offer young people a chance to reflect on both the proud and difficult elements of their heritage.

“I don’t believe in washing down the truth, so we shared the truth today,” she said.

The choir is a labor of love for both Tupponce and assistant music director Lori McElrath, who sees it as a way for youth to show their faith and expand their horizons.

“In the post-COVID world, so much of what kids do is tied to a screen, and they live via posts on social media,” McElrath said. “This choir gives the youth a chance to step outside of their comfort zone and do something different. They get excited about performing.”

More online

At www.catholicnewsherald.com : See photos and a video highlight from the Black History Month program at Our Lady of Consolation Church

TROY C. HULL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

10 years later: Generous donors put Gospel into action through ‘Forward in Faith, Hope, and Love’

TRISH STUKBAUER tmstukbauer@rcdoc.org

CHARLOTTE — When Michael Miller took over as principal of Asheville Catholic School in 2013, everyone knew the school needed more space to serve its growing student population, but raising the money was taking some time. While the community was generous, there was a feeling that more help was needed.

That help came when then-Bishop Peter Jugis launched the Diocese of Charlotte’s first-ever capital campaign – “Forward in Faith, Hope, and Love” – which recently celebrated a decade of impact across the sprawling diocese.

“To put it simply – and this is not hyperbole – we would not have been able to do our project without the FFHL funds,” Miller says. “When we got the call that we received a grant, it was the spark we needed. It made donors feel that we weren’t left on our own, that there was a whole diocese behind you.”

The $475,000 in FFHL funds that Asheville Catholic received, combined with contributions from local donors, paid for a 12,000-square-foot addition and remodeling project that included six new classrooms, a conference room, storage space, and remodeled kitchen and bathrooms.

“We broke ground in June 2020, and we were able to start the school year of 2021 in the added classroom space,” Miller says.

The improvements couldn’t have come at a better time for the school, which has seen enrollment grow to 250 students since then.

COMPREHENSIVE EFFORT

From building and improving facilities to funding priests’ retirement and providing tuition assistance, the $65 million FFHL campaign is enabling the diocese to respond to extraordinary growth now and into the future.

That was its aim from the start.

The comprehensive effort aimed to provide new funding to parishes and ministries to use as they saw fit, as well as solidify the diocese’s future through endowments and major capital projects.

By pooling funds from people across the diocese, FFHL empowered churches and schools to do more than they possibly could have on their own.

As Bishop Jugis wrote at the time, the FFHL campaign “will provide extraordinary resources that will better position the diocese to strengthen parishes and prepare for the future.”

“FFHL has had a significant impact on the work being done in parishes and in ministries across the diocese, and will impact the diocese for years to come,” says Jim Kelley, the diocese’s development director.

FFHL funds were designed for five critical objectives:

n Strengthening parish life and ministries as the center of the Catholic community

n Providing for priestly formation and retired clergy

n Ensuring the vitality of Catholic education

n Guaranteeing the availability of pastoral and temporal resources

n Expanding the outreach of social services

The diocese’s 93 parishes and missions have so far received $19.5 million – almost

30% of the entire FFHL campaign – to support their parish life and ministries.

Among them is St. Pius X Parish in Greensboro, which needed to consolidate and expand its facilities on its North Elm Street campus after opening a new 1,100seat church for its growing congregation of more than 1,700 registered families.

With help from the FFHL campaign, the parish was able to raise the funds it needed to build the Simmons Parish Center, which provides 23,477 square feet of space for offices, a banquet hall and commercial kitchen, a library and gathering spaces that have become the heart of parish life.

“Every single day there’s at least three or four activities in that building,” says Pat Spivey, former pastoral associate. “From Bible studies to meetings, a new program for young moms with kids, the Knights of Columbus have pancake breakfasts there, the Boy Scouts meet – all kinds of activities that we weren’t able to do before.”

“FFHL helped us to meet the goal that we had for having state-of-the-art facilities on our campus,” she says.

FFHL money also helped the parish build the DeJoy Primary Education Center next door at St. Pius X School to serve prekindergarten to first-grade students.

Not just parishes have benefited from FFHL funding.

The diocese’s College Campus Ministry program has used $454,000 to renovate and repair its facilities at four campuses, and

the Catholic Conference Center in Hickory got a $1 million makeover funded in part by $606,000 from the FFHL campaign.

LASTING IMPACTS

The FFHL campaign’s impacts haven’t stopped at brick-and-mortar projects.

As Kelley explains, “While funding for capital projects was initially spent in the short run, FFHL also will provide support for the Church long into the future through endowments.”

An endowment is a permanent fund, the principal of which is never touched, but the income from which can be used according to the wishes of the donor organization or person.

The FFHL campaign established seven endowments: Vocation and Seminarian Support, Catholic School Tuition Assistance, Faith Formation, Campus Ministry, Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte, Multicultural Ministries, and Parish and Mission Support Services.

So far, these endowments have grown to a market value of over $23.5 million, and it continues to grow through prudent investing.

Distributions from the endowments are having a real impact.

Thanks to the FFHL Tuition Assistance Endowment, students at the diocese’s 20 Catholic schools have received more than $1 million in tuition aid. This school year alone, students at six schools received a

total of $120,200.

Schools apply for the Tuition Assistance Endowment funds and use them to assist families with the greatest financial need.

The diocese’s Faith Formation Office is using funds from its endowment to provide adult faith education resources from the Catechetical Institute at Franciscan University.

The robust collection of materials through the Catechetical Institute is free for everyone in the diocese, and linked through the diocese’s website.

The Faith Formation Office uses the Catechetical Institute resources to train parish catechists who teach more than 30,000 children across the diocese. Just in the past two years, more than 900 catechists from 63 parishes have participated.

“This partnership provides every parish, mission and school with access to materials, both in English and Spanish, that will assist in the professional training of catechetical leaders for the diocese, as well as provide enrichment programs for adult faith formation,” says Christopher Beal, director of the Catechetical and Faith Formation Office.

During the darkest period of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 – when churches were closed and people unable to meet or worship in person – the diocese’s Hispanic Ministry Office used $17,400 in FFHL funds from the Multicultural Ministries Endowment to buy computers and recording equipment so they could provide webinars and video conferencing to “keep the faith going” and strengthen Hispanic families during the crisis.

HELP FOR RETIREMENT FUND

Also, FFHL funds totaling $6.1 million have been used to expand the diocese’s priest retirement fund, to ensure sufficient funds are there for future retired priests once they step back from active ministry.

In the past 10 years, 29 diocesan priests have retired from ministry. Fifteen more are still serving beyond the retirement age of 70, and at least another 28 will reach retirement age within the next decade.

Matt Ferrante, the diocese’s chief financial officer, says, “As the number of priests in our diocese continues to grow, it will be increasingly important to secure future funds to support their retirement. Ensuring that our pension funding is sufficient to meet these future needs is essential.”

From preserving the integrity and beauty of our spaces to creating a legacy for the future, FFHL funds are continuing to put the faith of the diocese into action.

As Kelley notes, “We are so grateful for people in the over 15,000 households who contributed to the FFHL campaign. Their gifts had impact through the gifts the parishes received and through the various capital projects the campaign funded. Equally important, the distributions from the seven endowments will impact this diocese for generations to come.”

“The sacrifice that those who gave to FFHL and that others are making now by donating can have a profound impact on people decades and decades into the future,” emphasizes Miller, whether through facilities that will outlast us all or Catholic education that will have a ripple effect for generations to come.

FILE | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Funds from the Diocese of Charlotte’s first-ever capital campaign – “Forward in Faith, Hope, and Love” – have been making an impact for a decade. Pictured above are students at the opening of St. Pius X School’s DeJoy Primary Education Center in 2016 and the renovated interior of the Catholic Conference Center in Hickory.

Hope in the cross: A Lenten experience

Lent gets its name from a word meaning “springtime,” the time of year when the hours of daylight are lengthening and the sun is bringing back its warmth and light.

The Lenten season is a time of hope: We deepen our relationship with Christ through our Lenten disciplines and look to His crucifixion, death and resurrection to overcome the darkness that can cause us to struggle and despair.

Some days we may not feel the love of God that is always present, but we can rely on hope to move us forward in faith, especially during this Jubilee Year, which Pope Francis has given the theme “Pilgrims of Hope.” Exercise hope this Lent and find renewal for the coming Easter season.

Hope is a theological virtue, a gift from God that helps us act as His children. Received at baptism, hope gives us confidence and inspiration as we look forward to salvation. Hope allows us to move forward in faith even in the most difficult times. Hope can help us feel secure in the midst of our own failings or the injustices we see in the world around us.

St. Thomas Aquinas said, “Hope denotes a movement or a stretching forth of the appetite toward an arduous good.” In other words, we are reaching for the goodness of God when we exercise hope – even when it isn’t easy.

Hope is also a form of trust in, and surrendering to our loving God. We have faith in His goodness, and we trust His guidance for our lives. And, while hope is a gift, it is also an active choice we make to stretch toward God’s goodness.

This stretching exercise can take many forms as we live the days of Lent.

PRAY WITH HOPE

The season of Lent calls us to deepen our prayer lives. St. Padre Pio’s famous phrase, “Pray, hope and don’t worry,” is a reminder that prayer can give us comfort when we place our hope in God. Prayer shows our reliance on and confidence in God. Along with traditional Catholic prayers, it is helpful to pray with God’s Word. This Lent, renew your prayer life by reflecting on these hope-filled Scripture passages:

“We who have taken refuge might be strongly encouraged to hold fast to the hope that lies before us. This we have as an anchor of the soul, sure and firm” (Heb 6:18-19).

“Rejoice in hope, endure in affliction, persevere in prayer” (Rom 12:12).

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Rom 15:13).

“Let us hold unwaveringly to our confession that gives us hope, for He who made the promise is trustworthy” (Heb 10:23).

Another way to deepen our faith this Lent is to learn and recite the Act of Hope. Consider God’s mercy as you reflect on Christ’s death and resurrection and find hope in the promise of salvation: “O my God, relying on Your infinite mercy and promises, I hope to obtain pardon of my sins, the help of Your grace, and life everlasting, through the merits of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Redeemer. Amen.”

FAST WITH HOPE

During Lent, Catholics are called to days of fasting from food and abstinence from meat. The goal is to deepen our relationship with Christ as we experience sacrifice in honor of his sacrifice for us. Fasting can help us feel solidarity with the poor. Many Catholics traditionally “give up” something

for Lent. Here are some ideas to make your Lenten sacrifice a hope-building exercise. Refrain from negative or comments; try saying things only in positive ways. Avoid watching television or movies with negative messages. Give away items that are burdening you with clutter; find new homes for them with a charity. Trade the time you usually spend on screens to take walks with family or friends. Skip buying desserts or treats and use the money you save to purchase flowers for someone who needs a day-brightener.

As you fast, consider Pope Francis’ April 2017 TED Talk in which he addressed

seem the easiest of Lenten disciplines. Most of our parishes have opportunities to donate funds to missions or the poor, and these are important works of charity.

Giving funds to help support others has been a part of Lent since the earliest days of Christianity and brings hope to others. However, as St. Teresa of Kolkata said, “It’s not how much we give but how much love we put into the giving” that’s important.

This Lent, consider volunteering at your parish during one of its Lenten activities, or help clean or decorate the church in preparation for Holy Week. Write cards to family and friends expressing ways they help you feel more hopeful. At Mass, introduce yourself to one new person each week of Lent and show them God’s love by sitting with them during the liturgy. Actively watch for someone each day who needs an extra helping hand.

You could also keep a Lenten Hope List. Write down names of those you encounter who need an extra dose of love and support. Pray for them and check in with them during Lent to show your care.

St. Bonaventure summed things up nicely: “Three things are necessary to everyone: truth that brings understanding, love of Christ which brings compassion, and endurance of hope which brings perseverance.” While Lent is traditionally the season to renew and refocus our discipleship through deeper experiences of prayer, fasting and almsgiving, it is important to remember that Christians are also called to live in hope.

The anchor, a symbol of hope amid storms

Did you know that the anchor represents hope? During the time of Roman persecution of Christians, it was adopted as a Christian symbol because it forms a cross. It was found in the catacombs and in homes, serving as an encouragement to Christians without drawing the attention of authorities. Since that time, the anchor cross is found in many churches and reminds us of hope and stability in Christ. As you meditate on the cross this Lent, consider the anchor cross and use it as an inspiration for hope in stormy times.

misconceptions around hope: “Feeling hopeful does not mean to be optimistically naive and ignore the tragedy humanity is facing. Hope is the virtue of a heart that doesn’t lock itself into darkness, that doesn’t dwell on the past, (that) does not simply get by in the present, but is able to see a tomorrow. … And it can do so much, because a tiny flicker of light that feeds on hope is enough to shatter the shield of darkness.”

GIVE ALMS WITH HOPE

“It is in giving that we receive,” according to the Prayer of St. Francis. Almsgiving can

— OSV News

CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

A priest walks past a large anchor before a Mass celebrated by Pope Benedict XVI in Brno, Czech Republic, Sept. 27, 2009.

OSV NEWS

A pedestrian gives money to a homeless man sitting outside St. Francis of Assisi Church in New York City. Almsgiving, donating money or goods to the poor and performing other acts of charity, is one of the three pillars of Lent, along with prayer and fasting.

50 years of transforming lives

It started with a desire to make a difference. In 1975, Catholics in Allentown, Pennsylvania, prayed, fasted and gave alms to help people suffering from famine in the Sahel region of Africa – marking the beginning of what would become Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Rice Bowl. Since then, generations of Catholics across the United States have come together each Lent with one common goal: to end global hunger.

It continued with a commitment to ending hunger.

In the 50 years since, we’ve been deeply moved by the commitment and impact you’ve had on this shared mission. CRS Rice Bowl has been proud to bring stories of hope to you and your family – stories about how our sisters and brothers are engaged in activities that break the cycle of hunger and build health and resilience. Stories of people like Hongkham Phengsaphone in Laos.

their farm. Over the next eight years, she became a mentor in her community – sharing knowledge and fostering a network of cooks who now rotate duties and make sure the children always have a warm meal to look forward to. Four of her six sons grew up on school meals, and they stand noticeably taller. Her husband’s health also improved, and he now works as a carpenter with two of their sons.

Today, however, our world faces a food crisis like never before. Our prayers and almsgiving are as important as ever.

A prayer for our global family

In this holy season, let us recommit to our global family as we pray:

Jesus, Bread of Life,

We met Phengsaphone in 2016, when she was volunteering as a cook at her children’s school, which provided free lunches for students. Her family also received monthly food rations through a Catholic Relief Services program after her husband fell seriously ill and they had to sell

When COVID-19 spread across the world, hunger was already deepening. Other problems have contributed to the current food crisis, such as conflict and wars, climate change and the rising cost of food. Now, millions of people are living without access to the food they need to live a healthy life. This is dangerous, especially for children who need the right nutrition to grow. Whether this is the first time you’re participating in CRS Rice Bowl or you were one of the founding parishioners from Allentown, we must come together to hear their stories and address this urgent need – because everyone deserves plenty to eat.

As we encounter you in the Eucharist this Lent, nourish us with your love, unite us in communion with our sisters and brothers, showing us how we are connected. Transform our hearts, that we may be moved to share bread for life with our global family and work for a world where all can thrive.

Amen.

CATHOLIC RELIEF SERVICES

Hongkham Phengsaphone, a mother of six, has become a beacon of hope and nourishment in her community in Laos. Her journey began over a decade ago when her passion for cooking led her to volunteer as a chef at her children’s school, a place transformed by the efforts of the Learning and Engaging All in Primary Schools project, implemented by Catholic Relief Services, with funding from the USDA. The project has been instrumental in addressing food security and enhancing educational outcomes by providing over 30,000 students across 302 schools in Savannakhet Province, Laos, with access to nutritious lunches. The program also works to enhance literacy skills, promote hygiene and dietary practices, and improve access to clean water, fostering a comprehensive approach to student well-being.

STORY OF HOPE: BANGLADESH

Protecting crops from natural disasters

Shahadat Hossain lives on Manpura Island in Bangladesh. He is a successful vegetable farmer who grows beans, pumpkins, tomatoes, eggplants and green chilis. He spends his days caring for his cows and tending the garden plots on his family’s land. Their farm provides nutritious food for Hossain’s family to eat and extra produce he can sell at the market.

But a few years ago, Hossain’s family struggled to pay for basic household expenses like food and school fees. His father worked as a motorbike driver but only earned a small income. His mother grew vegetables, but without much success. Their village, and much of Bangladesh, is located on flat lowlands. The intense rainy season causes flooding that often destroys farms and crops.

“The desperation in my life was so immense. Farming would cost a lot of money, and we were in a state of mental, physical and financial loss all the time,” Hossain says.

Despite these challenges, Hossain

Fifty years of CRS Rice Bowls

CRS Rice Bowl began during Lent 1975 in the Diocese of Allentown, Pennsylvania, in response to world hunger. It has continued for 50 years.

CATHOLIC RELIEF SERVICES

didn’t give up. He and his mother joined a Catholic Relief Services’ project –implemented in partnership with Caritas Bangladesh – that helps families reduce their risk from natural disasters like flooding, cyclones and river erosion. They learned how to protect their crops from floodwaters by planting on raised garden beds. They also learned how to make organic fertilizer to grow healthier crops. With their new skills, Hossain and his mother boosted their vegetable harvest in just one year. Then they bought cows and chickens and sold the eggs for additional income. Soon, Hossain could afford to pay for his college tuition and for the education of his brothers.

“With the CRS training, my family can grow vegetables with less money. The vegetables I sell at the market help me to provide financially for my family,” Hossain says.

Hossain’s dream is to help other families in his community learn how to grow successful crops and become prosperous, too.

Dahl (Bangladesh)

Start to Finish: 30 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

2 cups

4

2

1

2

3-4

1

1

cilantro

Directions:

1. In a large pot, add the lentils with 4 cups water and bring to a boil.

2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.

3. Add the turmeric power, ginger, cinnamon sticks, cardamom and bay leaves to the lentils and cook for 15 minutes, or until lentils are tender.

4. Remove the pot from the stove and add the salt.

5. In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil and add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until they turn light brown.

6. Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the lentils

7. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.

8. Serve with rice.

CATHOLIC RELIEF SERVICES

(Left) Zayan, 8, helps his cousin, Shahadat Hossain, pick tomatoes from the vegetable field in Bangladesh. (Above) Hossain works in his vegetable garden in Bangladesh, watering and removing the dried leaves from the trees. The money he earns helps to feed his family and pay for the children’s education.

In Brief

Learning and fun come together in Schola program

BELMONT — High school students are invited to sign up for a week of learning, fellowship and fun this summer through the Schola Program at Belmont Abbey College.

Schola offers an opportunity for students to read classic works of literature and philosophy, take part in group discussions with faculty from Belmont Abbey’s Honors College, experience Charlotte’s culture and recreation and meet new people.

The theme for the July 6-12 program is “Wisdom and Foolishness.” It is open to in-state and out-of-state students who will have completed one year of high school by this summer.

Schola is designed to help participants nurture their faith by participating in the spiritual life of the college, including daily Mass, Adoration, prayer with the Benedictine monks from Belmont Abbey.

They will also participate in a variety of activities that recently have included rafting at the U.S. National Whitewater Center, hiking, talent shows and chances to explore the city of Charlotte.

“I think the best aspect of Schola was the people that I met and the kind of conversations I could have with them –people were really excited to learn and talk about what we were reading,” said previous participant Marino Alexander in a promotional video for the program.

“Although it’s just a week, it feels like such a long time because it’s so full – it’s really something you’ll remember!”

Former participant Mary Amanda Weaver said the summer program made her “fall in love” with learning.

“Talking with my peers and the teachers about these texts, about the big questions in life, was so intellectually stimulating in a way that I had never experienced before,” she said.

The cost for the week-long session is $700, which includes room and board on campus, seminar sessions, and cultural and recreational activities.

To learn more, go to www. belmontabbeycollege.edu/academics/ honors-college/schola-summer-program.

— Christina Lee Knauss

Scouts invited to 2025 Catholic Camporee

CHARLOTTE — Scouts across the Diocese of Charlotte are invited to the 2025 Catholic Camporee, a weekend of faith, fellowship and adventure, set for March 21-23 at BSA Camp John J. Barnhardt in New London. This year’s camporee celebrates the Jubilee Year.

Highlights include Scouting skills and team-building activities, Catholicthemed activities, Mass on Sunday morning at Camp Barnhardt’s beautiful chapel, a special service project, and evening campfire programs.

Cost is $50 per participant, which includes camping, fees, meals and a commemorative Camporee patch. For more information, email Leslie Tesch or Mike Nielsen at cdcatholicscouting@gmail.com.

— Catholic News Herald

Tribunal advocates and staff offer hope and support during the annulment journey

LISA GERACI lmgeraci@rcdoc.org

CHARLOTTE — To some, the word “annulment” evokes images of complicated paperwork or hefty fees. The Diocese of Charlotte Tribunal is working to remove these misconceptions to reflect a more hopeful reality.

And it couldn’t come at a better time for the Tribunal, a type of Church court that assists people in seeking an annulment –the Church’s declaration that a couple was never validly married.

Pope Francis has urged Church leaders to make the annulment process more accessible so that more people can be welcomed back to the Catholic faith – an important aspect of the Church’s 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope. With all the increased attention, the diocese’s Tribunal is working harder than ever to help

‘It’s a gift to witness the inner healing and transformation of each person that comes forward in faith and hope to be reconnected and reconciled to the sacraments.’

Deacon William Shaw

people, and its caseload is up.

Lisa Sarvis, who has been working in the Tribunal for almost 20 years, recalls a time when couples abandoned their faith or even died during what was a convoluted annulment process. In recent years, the process has dramatically improved, so she now seeks to dispel those old ideas.

“We feel like this is a ministry, and it is not very kind to leave people out there flapping in the breeze,” Sarvis says. “It is a process that must be observed, but we don’t need to stretch it out longer than necessary. Formal cases usually take around seven months; informal, even less.”

Sarvis says the Tribunal has not charged for a case in years.

To bring more Catholics back to the practice of their faith, Pope Francis in 2015 urged tribunals to make annulments more accessible and affordable, and he has reformed some of the Church’s processes to

Annulment Process

Reach out to your parish priest or parish annulment advocate. This person assists the petitioner in completing the application for nullity.

The Tribunal contacts the other party (respondent), notifying them that the petitioner has submitted a case and sending a questionnaire. The respondent’s participation is not essential, and a case can proceed without it.

Both the petitioner and respondent review each other’s written testimony as well as any witness statements not protected by the seal of confidentiality.

The Tribunal notifies both parties of its final decision.

make that happen.

Lately, the Tribunal has seen its caseload double: 150 cases in 2023 have turned into 300 cases currently on hand. The diocese’s booming Catholic population and more general awareness about the annulment process are the reasons why, Tribunal staff note.

The staff of six is not worried about managing the heavier caseload, though. In line with the pope’s reforms, they have developed an efficient internal process for adjudicating cases, and they have an advocates program that is a model for other dioceses.

ENCOURAGING HOPE

Father John Putnam, the diocese’s judicial vicar and judge who presides over annulment cases for the diocese, welcomes the work.

Myths about Catholic annulments

A divorced person is excommunicated from the Catholic Church.

Divorce or separation itself does not alter a persons Church status. Members are still able to receive the sacraments, except marriage. However, if one enters into a new union, he or she must refrain from receiving Holy Communion, and they will not obtain absolution from reconciliation unless they are willing to sacrifice the relationship. The couple cannot marry in the Church until a Declaration of Nullity is given. At no point during or before the annulment process is anyone excommunicated.

It especially fits right in with the 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope, he says, because the annulment process encourages people to regain hope in the Church, giving them closure and a fresh start on their faith journey.

“The whole point of the tribunal process is to find the truth of the matter,” he explains. “Was this marriage as the Church understands a marriage to be? In that process, the people involved learn more about themselves, learn more about the Church, and grow in their relationship with God. The goal is the salvation of souls.”

An annulment is a judicial process not intended to find fault, but to discern whether a marriage was valid at its inception according to Church teaching. If the Tribunal determines that the marriage is not valid –based on consent, mindset and other factors – it issues a “declaration of nullity,” which is where the word “annulment” comes from. The petitioners are then free to marry someone else, join a religious order, or simply feel closure and renewed confidence about their place in the Church.

Whatever the reason, the Tribunal is eager to assist people in need, especially anyone who might be reluctant based on myths, fear or misinformation.

An annulment is “not as cumbersome as you think it is,” says George Cobb, special assistant to the Judicial Vicar who also serves as an advocate – a person who helps petitioners file for an annulment and accompanies them throughout the process. “There are people on the local level and the diocese level all trying to help.”

HEART OF THE TRIBUNAL

The Tribunal staff praises the diocese’s team of advocates, calling them their “feet on the ground” and the heart of the ministry. Although the team shies away from comparisons with other tribunals, their advocacy program has been widely recognized for its efficiency and copied by others, such as the Archdiocese of Atlanta. “Without the advocates, we wouldn’t have the workforce to do much of this,” Sarvis points out.

The Tribunal’s Joy Barnes received her own declaration of nullity in 1989, later becoming a Secular Franciscan. Barnes attended Father

An annulment costs thousands of dollars. Only Catholic marriages need to be annulled.

The Diocese of Charlotte Tribunal does not typically charge a fee to process a case.

Annulment makes children illegitimate. An annulment takes years to be processed.

Anyone who has been previously married needs to have a Declaration of Nullity from the Church before being married in the Catholic Church. An annulment is concerned only with the spouses, not the children. An annulment has no effect on the legitimacy of children.

While every case is unique, the diocese typically completes the process within seven months.

Putnam

ANNULMENT, SEE PAGE 17

Have Catholic questions? There’s an app for that!

CHRISTINA LEE KNAUSS clknauss@rcdoc.org

CHARLOTTE — Ever been in a situation where you wanted to answer someone’s question about the Catholic faith but weren’t sure of the correct answer? Or how to phrase it in a way that was understandable?

A new app developed in the Diocese of Charlotte can help with that.

It’s called Truthly, and it harnesses the power of artificial intelligence – AI – to quickly help people find accurate answers to questions about Catholicism.

Truthly is the brainchild of Jacob Ciccarelli, who co-founded it with Zac Johnson and launched the app on July 3, 2024, the feast day of St. Thomas the Apostle (commonly called “Doubting Thomas”).

Ciccarelli, who worked in the tech industry for 10 years and helped launch several startups, said the inspiration for Truthly largely came from his wife Kayla. The couple lives in Davidson with their four children and attend St. Mark Church in Huntersville and St. Ann Church in Charlotte. Kayla is a convert, and Jacob said their experiences during her conversion process – as well as conversations he had in the corporate world – made him realize there was a need for an app to help Catholics explain elements of the faith more easily –and evangelize when possible.

“There were times when I’ve been put on the spot – and often we as Catholics can feel like we’re on the defense when trying to explain the faith to others,” he said.

HOW IT WORKS

Truthly’s format is simple. Users are asked “What are you looking for?” and can request either short or in-depth answers from an AI chatbot that instantly generates the requested

and even quiz themselves on their knowledge. Ciccarelli first floated the idea for Truthly in January 2024 during a conversation with Father Aaron Huber at a Young Catholic Professionals meeting in Charlotte. Over the subsequent months, he embarked on what he calls his “most Catholic year yet,” that included attending a Cursillo retreat with his father in Pennsylvania and encountering a relic of St. Jude on display at St. Ann Church in February.

That and other spiritual experiences led him to believe it was the right time to bring Truthly to life.

The process, however, was challenging and required difficult decisions. He left his fulltime corporate job, and the Ciccarellis even sold their home to help finance the project.

“Our resources have been properly vetted so that users can be confident in what they’re receiving.”

He noted that users can report any answers they believe may be contrary to Church teaching, but so far, there haven’t been many concerns. “The support email has been quite quiet,” he said. “Virtually everyone seems to be liking what they see.”

SPIRITUAL INSPIRATION

Ciccarelli credits Father Huber as a key source of spiritual inspiration and motivation behind Truthly.

In turn, Father Huber said watching the app take shape has been a great experience. He believes Truthly stands out because of its ability to provide quick access to information on Church teachings or traditions so users can confidently share them in conversation or writing.

“The goal is to enrich Catholics and offer faith education to people who are already strong in their faith but might not have gone deeper into certain topics,” Father Huber said. “Now they don’t need to be afraid to go into conversation with others. The app brings the truth that has been taught for centuries in an approachable way.”

Father Huber, chaplain at Christ the King High School in Huntersville, has recommended the app to students and faculty. “Everyone who has downloaded it has

loved it, because what it’s trying to do is bring the teachings and traditions to people using a modern conversational tone, allowing them to receive information in a way they can easily understand,” he said. Truthly has been growing steadily since its launch, downloaded by about 10,000 people. Truthly is also expanding its reach through strategic partnerships. Catholic speaker and evangelist Paul Kim has partnered with Truthly to help spread the word, and the platform is working with ePriest to provide access to thousands of priests and religious worldwide at no cost. Truthly recently got rave reviews from prolife activist Lila Rose on her podcast.

Currently, the app is available only in Apple’s App Store for iPhone users, but Android and desktop versions are in the works.

Meanwhile, Ciccarelli continues to develop Truthly and enjoys seeing how his product helps others. The entire process, he says, has also deepened his own faith.

“This wouldn’t have been possible Time is running

Truthly’s AI model draws its information the New American Bible, the Catechism, and

Ciccarelli

St. Pius X School celebrates 70-year anniversary

Paving the way together

LISA GERACI lmgeraci@rcdoc.org

GREENSBORO — St. Pius X School is celebrating 70 years of education at a gala, “Paving the Way,” set for March 15 at the Greensboro Country Club. Community leaders, alumni, parents, clergy and parish members will reflect on the school’s history of growth while raising money to “pave the way” for a Marian Garden and some needed renovations.

St. Pius X School’s new principal, Antonette Aguilera, is delighted. “As we celebrate 70 years of faith, learning and service, we reflect on our humble beginnings – a small school on what was once a dead-end street,” she says. That street is now a busy thoroughfare, and enrollment, which began in 1955 with 179 pupils, stands at a record high of 408.

A HISTORY OF GROWTH

In 1955, the new $193,000 school was dubbed “one of the most beautiful school structures in the state” with its pale green walls, nine classrooms, an auditorium that could hold 600, a chapel that sat 300 and had a “modern” feature: a cry room so “mothers can assist in Mass and bring their young children.”

Pius X parishioner Dan Curran, 80, remembers the beginnings of the old school. and land. The city ended right there. Behind the school was an old reservoir,” Curran says.

be the large brass cross standing out front. The downstairs chapel where Curran was an altar boy operated as the main St. Pius X Church until a separate church was built in 1981. Where the altar once sat, there is now an art room.

under years of renovations. Currently, there are 14 core subject classrooms, a music room, two Spanish classrooms, a language center, a renovated

auditorium, a computer lab, a STEM lab and a full media center. Plus, there is a new DeJoy Early Education building for pre-kindergarten to first-grade students, with its own multipurpose room and playground.

Curran has seen all the progress and credits the late Monsignor Anthony Marcaccio with his keen eye for

Pendergrass knew of Monsignor Marcaccio’s knack for architecture but was more impressed with his affection for the students.

“He loved those kids,” she recalls. She told stories of how Monsignor Marcaccio created a kissing booth for his beloved dog Tater and designed “Pirate Day,” encouraging students

ST. PIUS X, SEE PAGE 13

DAUGHTERS OF CHARITY PROVINCE OF ST. LOUISE, ST. LOUIS, MO; LISA GERACI | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

The large brass cross that stands outside St. Pius X School is the one of the only original structures that remain at the school, which has grown and evolved over its 70-year history. As Father Christian Cook says of the school he recently became pastor of, “I was happy to find strong

an excellence in arts

athletics, and a joyful and enthusiastic spirit – all woven into a beautiful Catholic identity.”

Lifting hearts and voices for Black History Month

CHARLOTTE — Our Lady of Consolation parishioners join Charlotte Catholic High School students Feb. 21 for a morning of prayer and gospel singing in celebration of Black History Month. Members of OLC’s Perpetual Hope Gospel Choir filled the air with joyful harmonies as hundreds of students packed the gym to enjoy the special concert. The renowned OLC choir performed a number of gospel songs, including “Lift Every Voice and Sing” with CCHS choral students. English Department chair and Achievers Club sponsor Lincoln Sigwald shared reflections on the deep impact that attending Black churches has had on his personal faith. Sigwald also encouraged students in a moment of call-and-response: “I think you ought to say: ‘Thank you, God! Thank you, Lord! For saving me, for rescuing me, for making a way for me, for preparing a future for me – and for giving me this incredible, diverse Catholic faith.’ We say, ‘Thank you God.’”

TROY C. HULL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

ST. PIUS X

At www.catholicnewsherald.com : See more photos and a video highlight from the Perpetual Hope Gospel Choir concert at Charlotte Catholic High School

combined with the highest standards in academics, athletics, arts and service can transform a community by developing strong Catholics, deeply rooted in Christian values, who are equipped with intellect, faith and integrity to serve others with purpose and compassion.”

UPHOLDING TRADITION

At the dedication back in 1955, Auxiliary Bishop James J. Navagh declared the school to be a “monument to God … to the good mothers and fathers who made it possible and to the Sisters of Charity who will run it.”

Those “humble beginnings” Aguilera alluded to started before the school was erected. Its roots go back to 1926, when the first Bishop of Raleigh, William Joseph Hafey, petitioned the Daughters of Charity from Emmitsburg, Maryland, to open St. Benedict School in Greensboro.

St. Benedict Grade School opened on Sept. 6, 1926, with four women religious to teach 62 students, but it quickly became overcrowded. By 1951 enrollment had nearly tripled, to 179. Understanding the need, St. Benedict’s pastor and Bishop Vincent Waters bought 14.2 acres from the Cone family and made plans for a new school on the corner of North Elm Street and East Cornwallis Drive. Midway through the 1955 school year, St. Benedict School transitioned into St. Pius X School with the same students and sisters, but in a new building two miles away.

As the years went on, the Daughters of Charity taught as educators and led as principals, creating an environment that

in their pursuits. The school families and children, and our excellent leadership at St. Pius X Catholic School are such good stewards of this 70-year tradition.”

promoted education, service and faith.

Sister Ann Claire Rhoads remembers students from 1992, including actress Lee Avant, who regularly visits her, and harpist Kristen Kerr. “These students excelled one after the other after the other,” she recalls. “A lovely school and an amazing experience.”

The Daughters of Charity left the school in 1998, but their history still sets an example. Students continue to visit Dolan Manor

retirement home to see the elderly. They gather food for the poor and donate money to Urban Ministries.

“For 70 years now, St. Pius X Catholic School has been a leader in educating children in the Catholic tradition,” notes Father Cook. “And, although I am relatively new as the pastor of the school, I have found our students, teachers, administrators and families to be so diverse and well-rounded

Aguilera is confident St. Pius X will continue upholding those same traditions.

“This milestone is a testament to the dedication of all who have been part of our journey – students, families, staff and alumni,” she reflects. “Together, we have built a legacy of excellence, and with God’s continued guidance, we look ahead with confidence and eagerness, ready to embrace an even greater future.”

DAUGHTERS OF CHARITY PROVINCE OF ST. LOUISE, ST. LOUIS, MO; LISA GERACI | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Throughout its history, strong academic standards paired with Catholic traditions have been key parts of St. Pius X School’s approach, which continues today led by Principal Antonette Aguilera.

Raising our minds

Stained-glass company helps create sacred spaces throughout diocese

LISA GERACI lmgeraci@rcdoc.org

STATESVILLE

— A small family-owned business without Catholic traditions but with deep Southern roots has inspired parishioners across the Diocese of Charlotte with the sacred art of stained glass. Stained-glass companies from around the world have worked in the diocese, but one close to home has designed, repaired and installed stained-glass windows for nearly two dozen parishes and Catholic schools.

From Holy Infant Church in Reidsville to the historic St. Lawrence Basilica in Asheville to Our Lady of the Assumption Church in Charlotte, Laws Stained Glass Studios in Statesville has been gracing the diocese with its works of art for 79 years.

The ancient artform is so omnipresent across the diocese one would be hardpressed to find a church without it. At St. Therese Church in Mooresville, the kaleidoscope of multicolored beams that shine through the stained glass is just one example of Laws’ work.

During Mass at St. Therese, red and purple triangles dance onto the faces of parishioners as they sing or pray – a reminder they are in a sacred place. This same scene has played out in Catholic churches since the 7th century, when the art form is said to have begun, and thanks to small fine-glass companies, it continues to survive and thrive.

“There was a time that not everybody could read, not everybody had a Bible, but you could go into a church and you could learn your catechism and your scriptural stories, and learn about the saints by looking at stainedglass windows,” says Father Mark Lawlor, St. Therese’s pastor. “They add to the beauty as well as to the art. They play a valuable role in teaching and devotion.”

The late Jack Laws founded his stained-glass company in 1946, and decades later, the business remains a family affair with Jack’s daughter, son and grandsons running the office, overseeing sales, or cutting and designing stained glass alongside 40 other glass crafters and artists. The company creates and installs about 100 works annually for churches of all faiths across the country. Even before the Diocese of Charlotte was established in 1972, a relationship was forged: Laws installed stained glass in steel frames at St. Stephen Church in Elkin in 1955.

In Albemarle, parishioners Don and Nancy Barker are inspired by the glasswork the Laws studio installed at their church, Our Lady of the Annunciation, in 1971.

“The stained glass is gorgeous and full of color. When the sun comes on it and lights it all up, it is absolutely beautiful,” says Nancy Barker, a parishioner for 19 years.

The church’s windows depict the Stations of the Cross.

“You can have a very intimate connection with our stained-glass because they are the Stations of the Cross,” Barker says. “A lot of people stand in front of each depiction, one window at a time, and say prayers during Adoration. It is a quiet meditation.”

PAINTING SAINTS AND ANGELS

Despite technological advancements –electric kilns, computer blueprints and aluminum frames – the process of creating this sacred art remains largely unchanged. At Laws, each intricate window takes two weeks or more to complete.

The process begins with Chief Artist Nina Haynes sketching life-size designs on paper in charcoal pencil. In her dimly lit studio lined with sketches, Haynes spends hours hand-painting saints, angels and the Holy Family on pieces of clear glass – artistry that will live on for generations.

After 48 years, she can’t pick a favorite:

“They are all my favorite,” she says, “every single one.”

The glass pieces are fired at 1,200

Lawlor

LISA GERACI | CATHOLIC NEW HERALD (Top) Debbie Coyler displays one of Laws’ hand-painted clear glass inserts of Jesus. (Above) Chief Artist Nina Haynes hand paints a depiction of the baptism of Jesus. These glass inserts will later be placed in the middle of larger stained-glass designs.

minds toward God

STAINED GLASS

degrees in an electric kiln, sometimes once, sometimes five times, depending on how many layers of paint Haynes has added for a variety of desired effects. The pieces are waterproofed with a glaze, then they’re off to a drying rack.

When the glass is ready, Jack Laws’ grandsons Eythan and Caleb lay the pieces out on the table as if to assemble a jigsaw puzzle. They bind the pieces together with lead strips. Soon, the work is ready to be shipped across the country – or the world.

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

Born and raised in Iredell County, Jack Laws picked cotton as a young man, then went West in search of opportunity. He worked on the Hoover Dam, then landed a job in St. Louis installing windows – which

led to an apprenticeship in stained-glass work.

His daughter Debbie Colyer remembers him saying one day: “We got to go back home because that is where the Bible Belt is. There is a little country church on every corner.”

He opened his studio in Statesville a year after serving in World War II, and demand grew steadily as the region’s population did. The rise of Catholicism in the South – and a resulting church construction boom –helped fuel his business, just as his business helped fuel inspiration.

Laws isn’t the only such artisan company in Statesville. The town also is home to Statesville Stained Glass Co., which has been in operation for nearly 50 years and served at least 17 Catholic churches in the diocese.

“Stained-glass windows bring tranquility,” says Father Peter Ascik, who enjoys gazing at the angel Gabriel speaking to Mary in a stained-glass pictorial of the

Annunciation at his church. He is pastor of St. Mary Help of Christians, in Shelby, where the Laws’ artwork adorns the back wall.

“Stained glass makes a building feel like a church. They make it feel like a sacred space,” Ascik says. “The artistry and craftsmanship are beautiful. The effect of transforming natural light into color images helps to raise our minds to God. The images help us contemplate the mysteries of the faith and God and the saints.”

GOD’S HAND

AT WORK

Laws has fulfilled orders from as far away as Korea, American Samoa and the Cayman Islands. Usually the masterpieces are carefully cushioned in Styrofoam and sent off, but some clients prefer onsite installation, including

“The House on the Rock” in Lagos, Nigeria.

“We packed a shipping container and then flew two of our guys out there for installation,” says Colyer, who is the office manager.

The work, she says, is long and difficult and sometimes unpredictably busy or slow –

Editor’s note

As we celebrate the Jubilee Year of Artists this month, this is the first of an occasional series on artists whose work has transformed our diocese and brings us all a little closer to the beauty and majesty of God.

but it’s a priceless way of life.

“The churches aren’t like they used to be,” Colyer says. “They have become more like concert halls and auditoriums and movie theaters – so they are not getting stained-glass.”

But as the industry evolves, for every opportunity lost, she says, God provides a new opportunity. Laws has endured innumerable trials – from financial challenges, to family illness, to a devastating fire, to the death of Jack Laws and his wife Helen. Yet the family remains hopeful and inspired.

The fire, in particular, tested them. The studio burned to the ground in 1991, but the resilient Law family moved operations into a shed until the new shop could be built. Recovering from the devastation deepened the Laws family’s faith – in their business and in God.

“There have been a lot of ups and downs over the years, and if it wasn’t for God we wouldn’t be here,” Colyer says. “I think God has had a hand in this all along.”

Eythan and Caleb Laws feel God’s hand as they install the colorful artwork.

“You can get numb to it in the studio, but when you hang up a new piece of glass, you don’t realize how much more it looks like a church,” Caleb Laws says. “It really changes the atmosphere.”

For Colyer, she believes – and hopes –that “what we do brings people to God.” Indeed, at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Lenoir, the windows transfix and transport parishioners spiritually.

“Our stained-glass windows remind us when we go into the church that we are

STAINED GLASS, SEE PAGE 17

Ascik

PHOTOS BY TROY C. HULL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

(Left) Windows done by Laws Stained Glass Studios in Statesville pay homage to the patroness of St. Therese Church in Mooresville. Petals showering down in the stained-glass design honor her name as “The Little Flower.” (Above) Caleb Laws uses lead to bind together pieces of opalescent glass.

One deacon’s gift continues to strike the right chord

LISA GERACI lmgeraci@rcdoc.org

FOREST CITY — The quaint white chapel has wooden pews, hymnals, an altar – everything a typical little church would have, except it’s surrounded by a barbed wire fence, has cinderblock walls and its parishioners are inmates of the Rutherford Correctional Institution in Spindale.

At 87, Deacon Andy Cilone is the last active deacon from the first class of deacons ordained for the Diocese of Charlotte in 1983. Although he retired over 10 years ago, he stays busy assisting Father Herbert Burke at Immaculate Conception Parish on weekends, bringing Holy Communion to the sick, singing at local nursing homes, and bringing his voice and hope to prisoners like those here.

Deacon Cilone knows the Rutherford facility well. He has been in and out of the prison that houses 236 for the past 30 years.

Deacon John Gallen, another 1983 deacon graduate, initially invited him to come to prison. He has yet to stay out.

“Jesus said, ‘When I was in prison, you visited me,’ ” he explains. “That’s why I do this – to visit Jesus.”

John the Baptist, St. John, St. Peter, St. Silas, St. Paul and, of course, Jesus – all were prisoners. They were, in a way, present in the pews alongside the 10 or so inmates in the chapel for Deacon Cilone’s concert.

RAISING VOICES IN PRAISE

These men are part of the prison choir, geared up with keyboard, guitar and voices fully prepared to praise the Lord along with Deacon Cilone. Some of the inmates had sung in a choir since high school or can remember singing in church as children, but most came to it recently. Like the keyboardist who has been steadily learning since his incarceration date.

Deacon Cilone brought his set list of Catholic hymns, oldies but goodies, and some classic Italian songs. The inmates had their own set of contemporary spiritual songs planned.

He weaved songs with spiritual teaching, constantly referring to the Bible. Each time he mentioned a verse, pages quickly flipped –Psalm 96 for “Sing to the Lord a New Song” and then to Psalm 91 for “On Eagle’s Wings.” As he shared words of inspiration and hope, he received a resounding “Amen” or an echoing “Alleluia.” The incarcerated men raised

Singing bars behind bars

another, while Deacon Cilone rested his lungs and enjoyed the raw spirituality of the moment.

INSPIRED TO ASSIST

Deacon Cilone didn’t always bring his vocals to prison with him. He was inspired after watching an EWTN program about a musician who sang in prisons. Performing at a prison altar was not something he was used to, but he was a singer, a deacon and in the prison ministry, so it made sense, he says. “I thought, well, I can try something like that.” Today, he serves more than one prison. He brings rosaries and sings hymns mixed with Scripture on an on-call basis at the Rutherford County Jail and twice a month at the Marion Correctional Institute. Nowadays, he gets tired more easily and is seeking helpers for the ministry.

Joining the prison ministry is a bit of an involved process. Volunteers fill out an application, pass a background check, then go through training and a probationary period before getting issued a “blue card” permitting them to serve. Each prison issues its own blue card.

“Two men are in the process of getting their blue card at Rutherford and one is getting theirs for the Marion facility,” Deacon Cilone says excitedly, as he is now the only Catholic serving those two prisons.

Rutherford Correctional Institution is a minimum-security prison, with prisoners set for release soon. To acclimate them to “life on the outside,” prison volunteers sometimes apply for a “salmon card” (allowing them to take prisoners outside the walls). Deacon Cilone uses his to help prisoners receive the sacraments and get in the habit of going to Mass before their eventual release.

“I pick them up at 4 o’clock, take them to confession and Mass at 5 o’clock. Then we go out to eat,” Deacon Cilone says.

The inmates open up to him about their life, their future, their goals and aspirations – the new person they hope to become when they get out. It is not uncommon for exconvicts to regularly call or write to him and report their triumphs.

“There are some success stories, some are doing great, but some inevitably go back into the system,” he says.

The good stories may not outweigh the bad, but hearing them still moves Deacon Cilone in his later years to continue to act.

their tattooed arms and joined Deacon Cilone in harmony singing a jailhouse version of “Amazing Grace.” After he sang

“Ave Maria” in Latin, he saw the faces stare back at him. “That song always brings people to tears,” he smiles.

But that day the surprise was on Deacon Cilone as the inmates paired up and sang their own song with the repeated chorus,

“I’m never going back.”

Side by side, they sang their promise to God and to one

“There are a lot of things you can do to help people, and the prison ministry is one of the ones I was fortunate to get involved in,” he says. “We are always looking for more volunteers.”

Learn more

Find out about the diocese’s Prison Ministry at www.charlottediocese. org/offices/prison-ministry. Interested in getting involved? Email Interim Prison Ministry Coordinator David Coe at dhcoe@rcdoc.org.

Deacon Andy Cilone, 87, has been bringing his voice to inmates of the Rutherford Correctional Institution in Spindale and two other jails. (Left) Inmates lift their voices in praise.

PHOTOS BY GIULIANA POLINARI RILEY | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Putnam’s first advocate class in 2005, and now as advocacy program director she oversees 76 advocates across the diocese.

Every parish in the diocese has a designated volunteer advocate who helps petitioners through the process: 17 are deacons, 18 speak Spanish, two are fluent in Vietnamese. Still, Barnes continually recruits, searching for as many diverse advocates as she can find. A current need is someone who speaks Korean.

In 2007, Barnes revolutionized the advocates program by moving from a physical classroom to a virtual one, with 15 self-paced lessons. In addition, she wrote a 55-page advocates handbook that she sends to every recruit.

Gary Lichtenstein is an advocate for Our Lady of Mercy, St. Benedict the Moor, Good Shepherd, and Holy Angels parishes in the Triad region. Lichtenstein feels he was blessed with the empathy needed to walk people through the annulment process and has no doubt his 56 years of marriage contributes to his success in this ministry.

“Not only do we meet with and instruct a petitioner on what is required to present a petition for nullity, we learn about the difficulty of that person’s life and marital problems,” Lichtenstein says.

Tribunal advocates are the voice of the petitioner. They collect documents, listen to the petitioner’s history, gather evidence and witness statements, find grounds for invalidity, investigate claims, write briefs –pretty much everything an attorney would do in a secular court, except this is a court “on paper” governed by Church law and decided by Church professionals.

Deacon William Shaw, an advocate who serves in far western North Carolina, was drawn to the program in 1974 in a different diocese after seeing faithful Catholics getting terrible advice from family members and others. Annulment myths he heard about excommunication or children becoming illegitimate are completely contrary to Church teaching, so he wanted to guide the people to the truth, he explains.

“It’s a gift to witness the inner healing and transformation of each person that comes forward in faith and hope to be reconnected and reconciled to the sacraments,” Deacon Shaw says. “It is not about receiving a ‘decree of nullity,’ it is about cathartic healing and the reconnection to Jesus and the Church. This for me is the greatest enjoyment.”

Healing and hope brings a tear to Cobb’s eye as he reminisces about the joy of seeing one elderly couple who were able to have a Catholic wedding. “The pastor confirmed that because of the annulment process they were able to marry in the Church. That’s what we are about. To be reconciled together and to be reconciled in the Body of Christ.”

For more information

Want more information about the annulment process for yourself or others?

Talk to your parish priest or go online to www.charlottediocese.org/offices/ tribunal to learn more and find an advocate near you. Feel called to serve as an advocate? Contact Joy Barnes at jmbarnes@rcdoc. org or 704-370-3373.

STAINED GLASS

Laws Stained Glass Studios clients

Our Lady of the Annunciation Church, Albemarle

St. Barnabas Church, Arden

St. Lawrence Basilica, Asheville

Giving appreciated stock to your parish, Catholic school, agency, the diocese or the Foundation creates a gift that will benefit your desired beneficiary and provide you tax benefits.

For more information, go to www.charlottediocese.givingplan.net or call Gina Rhodes at 704/370-3364.

entering a heavenly realm,” says Father Alfonso Gamez, pastor. The church’s eight windows depicting Franciscan saints are situated low in the church so the saints appear to be among the people. The windows date to 1939 and were moved, under the careful guidance of Laws, from the original church to the new church in 2001.

Mary Help of Christians Basilica, Belmont

Charlotte Catholic High School, Charlotte

Our Lady of the Assumption Church, Charlotte

St. John Neumann Church, Charlotte

St. Matthew Church, Charlotte

“They provide beauty and inspiration,”

Father Gamez says, “and the saints depicted come from all over the world, reflecting the great diversity of the Church.”

St. Vincent de Paul Church, Charlotte

St. Patrick School, Charlotte

St. Stephen Church, Elkin

Immaculate Conception Church, Hendersonville

St. Francis of Assisi Church, Lenoir

St. Dorothy Church, Lincolnton

Our Lady of the Angels Church, Marion

St. Therese Church, Mooresville

St. Charles Borromeo Church, Morganton

Holy Infant Church, Reidsville

St. Mary Help of Christians Church, Shelby

St. Philip the Apostle Church, Statesville

Holy Trinity, Taylorsville

St. John the Baptist Church, Tryon

FE FAMILIA FRATERNIDAD

de Colón

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Gamez

Vicentinos celebraron Cuarto Centenario de fundación

VICENTE CAPISTRANO

Especial para Catholic News Herald

CHARLOTTE — El 25 de enero, la Parroquia Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe celebró el 400 aniversario de la fundación de la Congregación de la Misión, un hito que refleja cuatro siglos de dedicación al carisma de la caridad y la misión inspirado por San Vicente de Paúl. Este día histórico, fue una oportunidad para que la comunidad parroquial se reuniera en acción de gracias por el espíritu vicentino que continúa moldeando e inspirando su fe.

La celebración comenzó con una solemne Eucaristía presidida por el Reverendo Marvin Navas, párroco, y fue concelebrada por los tres vicarios parroquiales: los Padres José García Rubio, Diógenes Araúz y Oscar Benavides. La liturgia estuvo enriquecida con música, oraciones y reflexiones que resonaron con el legado vicentino de servicio a los pobres y proclamación del Evangelio.

En su homilía, el Padre García Rubio profundizó en el significado del carisma vicentino, que describió como un don del Espíritu Santo a la Iglesia a través de San Vicente de Paúl. Destacó que este carisma no es sólo afectivo, sino también efectivo, demostrado a través de acciones concretas de amor y servicio a los pobres, donde se encuentra a Cristo sufriente. Inspirándose en la conversión de San Pablo, que se celebra el 25 de enero y coincide con la fundación de la Congregación de la Misión, describió el carisma como una respuesta radical al llamado de Dios, manifestada en la formación del clero y en la evangelización mediante la espiritualidad y la caridad.

El Padre García Rubio también recordó a la congregación que el año 2025 está marcado por una doble celebración: el jubileo eclesial anunciado por el Papa Francisco bajo el lema “Peregrinos de Esperanza” y el 400 aniversario de

la Congregación de la Misión. Esta confluencia de jubileos, destacó, llama a una renovación del compromiso de vivir el carisma vicentino con celo y dedicación. En su exhortación final, el Padre García Rubio animó a los feligreses a mantener vivo el fuego del carisma vicentino mediante la oración, la colaboración y la acción. Enfatizó la importancia de las tres dimensiones de este carisma: ser proféticos, sinodales y misioneros. Al abrazar estas dimensiones, los fieles son llamados a ser luz para el mundo, ungidos por el Espíritu del Señor y enviados a servir. La celebración también incluyó un momento de reconocimiento dirigido por el Padre Marvin, quien destacó varios ministerios dentro de la parroquia que encarnan los ideales vicentinos. Entre ellos estaban el Ministerio de la Medalla Milagrosa, que fomenta la devoción y la oración; el Equipo de Vocaciones, que trabaja para inspirar nuevas vocaciones; y los VincenTeens, el grupo de jóvenes dedicado a vivir el espíritu vicentino a través del servicio y la evangelización. Además, la comunidad recibió una visita especial del Padre Rafal Kopystynski, C.M., Asistente General del consejo general de la Congregación de la Misión. Aunque no formó parte de la celebración principal, el Padre Rafal expresó su admiración por la vitalidad y el dinamismo de la comunidad parroquial. Quedó impresionado con lo activa que es la comunidad y cómo el carisma vicentino se irradia especialmente en los jóvenes. Su visita fue un recordatorio adicional de cómo el legado de San Vicente continúa vivo y relevante en nuestras parroquias modernas.

¿QUIÉN FUE SAN VICENTE?

San Vicente de Paúl, nacido el 24 de abril de 1581 y ordenado sacerdote a los 19 años en 1600, tuvo un encuentro

transformador con una familia pobre en 1617. Esta experiencia lo llevó a predicar el famoso “Sermón de la Caridad”, que inspiró la creación de la Asociación Internacional de Caridades (AIC) para organizar y expandir los actos de caridad. Reconociendo las crecientes necesidades pastorales, especialmente en las zonas rurales, Vicente reunió a sacerdotes para ayudar en este ministerio, culminando en la fundación de la Congregación de la Misión. Más tarde, en 1633, él y Luisa de Marillac fundaron las Hijas de la Caridad para ampliar esta obra.

La Parroquia Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe celebró el 400 anniversario de la fundación de la Congregación de la Misión, un hito que refleja cuartro siglos de dedicación al carisma de la caridad y a misión inspirado por San Vincente de Paúl.

Este día de gratitud y renovación reflejó la vibrante fe de la comunidad de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe y su conexión con la familia vicentina, llamando a los fieles a vivir la caridad, evangelizar con servicio y seguir la misión centrada en Cristo y su Iglesia.

En palabras de San Vicente de Paúl, “Amemos a Dios, hermanos míos, amemos a Dios, pero que sea con la fuerza de nuestros brazos y el sudor de nuestra frente”. Que este legado de amor y servicio continúe floreciendo por generaciones venideras.

Más de 100 fieles se consagraron a María

CHARLOTTE — En lo que la parroquia Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe calificó como “un Momento de Gozo”, el pasado martes 4 de febrero, 140 fieles laicos de esa iglesia culminaron, en una Misa especial celebrada por el párroco, Padre Marvin Navas, y el vicario parroquial Diógenes Araúz, un hermoso camino de fe para finalmente consagrarse a Nuestra Madre, la Santísima Virgen María. La fórmula de consagración total a Jesús por María de San Luis María Grignion de Montfort consiste en doce días preliminares en los que el alma queda vacía del espíritu del mundo. Le siguen tres semanas de oración y meditación, durante las cuales el alma buscará un mejor conocimiento de sí misma, de María y de Jesucristo. Que la gracia y protección de María Santísima cubra siempre sus vidas, guiándoles con su amor maternal hacia su Hijo Jesús. Que, por su intercesión, esta consagración sea fuente de paz, fortaleza y frutos abundantes de santidad.

FOTOS POR VICENTE CAPISTRANO | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Retiro de evangelización

BLACK MOUNTAIN — Hombres de toda la región de Asheville se reunieron el fin de semana pasado para un retiro especial de evangelización para hombres.

Formaron instructores en prevención de suicidio

CHARLOTTE — El Centro Pastoral de la Diócesis de Charlotte acogió a decenas de participantes en un evento de un día de duración destinado a capacitar a instructores en prevención de suicidio. Organizado por el programa ReCast del Departamento de Salud del Condado Mecklenburg (Resiliencia en Comunidades después de estrés y trauma, por sus siglas en inglés), la formación de instructores tiene como objetivo que los líderes, promotores de salud y servidores comunitarios, una vez capacitados, se conviertan en voceros y lleven estas técnicas y habilidades a sus propias comunidades de base. Maribel García, coordinadora de la pastoral de Salud de la Vicaría de Charlotte, dijo que diez personas de la Diócesis de Charlotte, entre servidores, promotores y miembros de ministerios de familia, atendieron a la formación. “Hemos recibido muchas y valiosas herramientas, además nos hemos quitado el estigma y ya podemos hablar abiertamente sobre el suicidio”, dijo. “Ahora, preguntando, persuadiendo y respondiendo, podremos prevenirlo. Gracias a los recursos recibidos podemos reconocer señales que anteriormente hubieran podido pasar desapercibidas por efecto de las actividades de la vida diaria”, concluyó.

Experimenten la esperanza en la próxima Peregrinación Juvenil del Obispo

BELMONT — Atención, estudiantes de secundaria y preparatoria: Están invitados a unirse al Obispo Michael Martin para un día de esperanza, inspiración y diversión en la Peregrinación Juvenil del Obispo 2025, que se llevará a cabo el sábado 12 de abril.

Este evento exclusivo para adolescentes, que sirve como preludio al Congreso Eucarístico de la Diócesis de Charlotte que tendrá lugar este otoño, reunirá a cientos de jóvenes en Belmont Abbey College para un día de adoración, charlas motivadoras, compañerismo, música en vivo, comida y juegos. El tema de este año refleja el Año Jubilar en la Iglesia: “Peregrinos de Esperanza.”

Además del Obispo Martin, los principales invitados de este año incluyen al Abad Benedictino Placid Solari de Belmont Abbey College, al artista católico de jazz y hip-hop Padre Stan Fortuna, y a la oradora motivacional y ministra juvenil Katie Knoefel.

El Abad Placid ha sido monje de Belmont Abbey desde 1974. Actualmente, es el líder espiritual del monasterio benedictino y canciller de Belmont Abbey College, una reconocida universidad católica de artes liberales, donde también continúa enseñando.

El Padre Fortuna es miembro de los Frailes Franciscanos de la Renovación en el Bronx, Nueva York. Ordenado en 1990, es un reconocido músico de jazz y bajista, además de artista discográfico. Su principal apostolado es con los jóvenes, a quienes busca inspirar con amor y entusiasmo por Dios y Su pueblo. Knoefel es originaria de Carolina del Norte y ha trabajado en el ministerio en varias parroquias del área de Charlotte. Como evangelizadora apasionada y presentadora talentosa, comparte su vasta experiencia sobre cómo encontrar a Jesús

Escuelita para papás y mamás

CHARLOTTE — Cada martes, de siete a nueve de la noche, los padres de familia de la Iglesia Nuestra Señora de la Asunción acuden a la ‘Escuela para familias’, un programa de cuatro meses de duración en que se aborda el tema de la visión cristiana de la sexualidad; las diferentes etapas de desarrollo psicosocial del ser humano, desde la niñez hasta la edad adulta; valores cristianos y, finalmente, documentación sobre las encíclicas que abordan la vida familiar. Aquí, dijo el Diácono Eduardo Bernal, coordinador del ministerio hispano en la Vicaría de Charlotte y diácono en funciones en esa parroquia, gracias a los miembros del equipo de Pastoral Familiar, “se ofrecen a todos los feligreses de la parroquia los valores y enseñanzas de la Iglesia para las familias”. Gloria Restrepo, una de las expositoras y miembro de la Pastoral Familiar, dijo que los temas expuestos abordan la “unión entre la psicología y la fe”.

en nuestra vida diaria.

La Peregrinación Juvenil del Obispo comenzará el sábado a las 9 a.m. con música en vivo y juegos, charlas motivacionales, Adoración Eucarística, Misa, la oportunidad de recibir el sacramento de la confesión y una Procesión Eucarística a través de los terrenos históricos de Belmont Abbey College, concluyendo el evento a las 3 p.m. La tarifa de inscripción es de $20 e incluye el almuerzo y una camiseta del evento. ¡No te lo pierdas! Inscríbete antes del miércoles 2 de abril. — Catholic News Herald

Más online

En www.goeucharist.com/bishops-youthpilgrimage : Obtener más información sobre la Peregrinación Juvenil del Obispo 2025 y registrarte antes del 2 de abril.

for Charlotte Area Catholic Families in Their Hour of Need Since 1926

Fortuna Knoefel Solari Martin

FOTOS POR ANTONIO GARCIA

Papa

Francisco

La realeza de Dios nos libera para servirle a Él y a los demás

Cristo es un rey que no oprime a sus súbditos sino que los libera para que le sirvan a él y a los demás, escribió el Papa Francisco en un discurso que preparó para su audiencia general del miércoles pero que no pronunció debido a su hospitalización en el hospital Gemelli.

Aunque la audiencia semanal del Papa del 19 de febrero fue cancelada y nadie fue delegado para dirigir la reunión en lugar del Papa, el Vaticano publicó el texto que el Papa había preparado.

El Papa Francisco ha estado hospitalizado desde el 14 de febrero; el Vaticano dijo el 18 de febrero que se le había diagnosticado una neumonía doble.

Durante el Año Santo 2025, el Papa anunció anteriormente, las catequesis de la audiencia general se centrarían en “Jesucristo, nuestra esperanza”, comenzando con una mirada a las historias bíblicas de la infancia de Jesús.

En el texto preparado para el 19 de febrero, el Papa Francisco describió a los Reyes Magos como “peregrinos de la esperanza” que partieron de su tierra para encontrar a Jesús. Los pastores pobres y humildes son los primeros en rendir homenaje a Jesús. Y los Magos, extranjeros, son el siguiente grupo que visita a Jesús, señaló el Papa. “Los Evangelios nos dicen claramente que los pobres y los extranjeros son invitados a encontrarse con el Dios hecho niño, el Salvador del mundo”, escribió.

“Con gran valentía”, escribió, “dirigieron sus pasos, sus corazones y sus bienes hacia Aquel que es la esperanza no sólo de Israel, sino de todos los pueblos”.

Los Reyes Magos “son hombres capaces de mirar más allá de sí mismos, que saben mirar hacia arriba” y seguir la estrella, escribió el Papa Francisco. Herodes, en cambio, muestra que “para aquellos apegados al poder, Jesús no es la esperanza que hay que acoger, sino una amenaza que hay que eliminar”.

El Papa Francisco culminó su texto escribiendo una oración para que todos “aprendamos a adorar a Dios en su pequeñez, en su realeza que no oprime, sino que libera y hace capaces de servir con dignidad”.

Y como los Reyes Magos, dijo, “ofrezcámosle los dones más hermosos, para expresarle nuestra fe y nuestro amor”.

Santa Catalina de Bolonia

¿Quién es Santa Catalina de Bolonia? Su nombre, que proviene de la lengua griega, significa “casta, pura”. He aquí otra chica con inquietudes espirituales a la que no le seducen los encantos y esplendores de los palacios reales.

Efectivamente, era hija de una familia ilustre de Italia. Vivía encantada con la princesa Margarita, hija de Nicolás de Est, marqués de Ferrara.

Desde que naciera en el año 1413, y se fue haciendo una joven muy guapa, notaba de día en día que su camino no era la corte ni las riquezas.

A la temprana edad de los doce años buscaba con anhelo en dónde ser mejor y hallar más pronto la perfección a la que Dios nos llama a cada ser humano.

Una vez que la princesa Margarita contrajo matrimonio, ella pudo respirar a pleno pulmón. Se había quedado libre de toda atadura a la corte.

Llegó para ella el momento en el cual, aunque con muchas dificultades, se decidió por entrar en el convento de las Terciarias de san Francisco de Asís.

La dejaron entrar, y ella se sintió más feliz que nunca. Al comenzar su vida de relaciones humanas con las hermanas, todas se quedaban contentas por su trato, sus atenciones personalizadas y por su grado de santidad y de bondad que reflejaba su lindo rostro, imagen de su casta alma. En el capítulo en el cual se elige a la madre abadesa, todas las hermanas pensaron casi unánimemente que la mejor sería Catalina. En este convento estuvo toda su vida, hasta el año de su muerte que tuvo lugar en 1463.

Escribió muchos libros acerca de la piedad y de la vida religiosa. Todo el mundo, fino y atento a las cosas del alma, conoce su mejor libro titulado “Siete Armas Espirituales”. Ella, en su sencillez y con las mejores intenciones, se lo dedicó a todo aquel o aquella que sufra tentaciones.

VISIONARIA DE MARÍA

En la Navidad de 1445, la santa le pidió permiso a su superiora para quedarse toda la noche en la iglesia del monasterio. Estando allí, rezó con fervor mil Avemarías. Al llegar la medianoche, una visión la sorprendió, según relata en el libro Vidas de los Santos el P. Alban Butler, pues apareció la Santísima Virgen, llevando en sus brazos al Niño Jesús cubierto con pañales”. La Madre de Dios se le acercó y puso al divino bebé en sus brazos. La santa, llena de alegría, lo acarició con mucha reverencia, lo

Lecturas Diarias

MARZO 2-8

Domingo: Sirácida 27:5-8, Del Salmo 91, 1

Corintios 15:54-58, Lucas 6:39-45; Lunes: Sirácida 17:20-28, Salmo 31:1-2. 5. 6. 7, Marcos 10:17-27; Martes: Sirácida 35:1-15, Salmo 49, 5-6. 7-8. 14 y 23, Marcos 10:2831; Miércoles (Miércoles de Ceniza): Joel 2:12-18, Salmo 50:3-4. 5-6a. 12-13. 14 y 17, 2 Corintios 5:20–6:2, Mateo 6:1-6. 16-18; Jueves: Deuteronomio 30:15-20, Salmo 1:1-2. 3. 4 y 6, Lucas 9:22-25; Viernes: Isaías 58:19, Salmo 50:3-4. 5-6a. 18-19, Mateo 9:14-15; Sábado: Isaías 58:9-14, Salmo 85:1-2. 3-4. 5-6, Lucas 5:27-32

Imagen de Catalina de Bolonia realizada por el pintor italiano

Bolonia viste los hábitos de las monjas de la Orden de Santa Clara, la orden franciscana para mujeres.

estrechó cerca de su corazón y le dio un beso en el rostro.

No obstante, en el momento en que Santa Catalina de Bolonia intentó acercar sus labios a la boca del Divino Niño, “se esfumó la visión” y ella quedó “sumida en un gozo indescriptible”.

El Directorio Franciscano de santos indica que antes de morir, el rostro de Santa Catalina de Bolonia “se volvió hermoso y sereno” y murió tras pronunciar tres veces el nombre de Jesús. Su cuerpo fue desenterrado dos veces

MARZO 9-15

Domingo (Primer domingo de Cuaresma): Deuteronomio 26:4-10, Salmo 90:1-2. 10-11. 12-13. 14-15, Romanos 10:8-13, Lucas 4:1-13; Lunes: Levitico 19:1-2. 11-18, Salmo 18:8. 9. 10. 15, Mateo 25:31-46; Martes: Isaías 55:10-11, Salmo 33:4-5. 6-7. 16-17. 18-19, Mateo 6:7-15; Miércoles: Juan 3:1-10, Salmo 50:3-4. 12-13. 18-19, Lucas 11:2932; Jueves: Esther 4:17n. p-r. aa-bb. gg-hh, Salmo 137:1-2a. 2bc-3. 7c-8, Mateo 7:7-12; Viernes: Ezequiel 18:21-28, Salmo 129:1-2. 3-4ab. 4c-6. 7-8, Mateo 5:20-26; Sábado: Deuteronomio 26:16-19, Salmo 118:1-2. 4-5. 7-8, Mateo 5:43-48

porque eran numerosos los milagros que los fieles obtenían con su intercesión. Se dice que sus restos expedían un suave perfume.

Finalmente, el cuerpo de la santa fue puesto en una urna de cristal, en una capilla del Santuario del Corpus Domini de Bolonia. Allí permanece sentada hasta nuestros días.

El Papa Clemente VIII la inscribió en el martirologio incruento y Benedicto XIII la llevó a la gloria de los altares. — Condensado de ACI Prensa

MARZO 16-22

Domingo (Segundo domingo de Cuaresma): Génesis 15:5-12. 17-18, Salmo 26:1. 7-8a. 8b-9abc. 13-14, Filipenses 3:17–4:1, Lucas 9:28b-36; Lunes: Daniel 9:4-10, Salmo 78:8.9. 11 y 13, Lucas 6:36-38; Martes: Isaías 1:10. 16-20, Salmo 49:8-9. 16bc-17. 21 y 23, Mateo 23:1-12; Miércoles (Solemnidad de San José, esposo de la Bienaventurada Virgen María): 2 Samuel 7:4-5. 12-14. 16, Salmo 88:2-3. 4-5. 27 y 29, Romanos 4:13. 16-18. 22, Mateo 1:16. 18-21. 24; Jueves: Jeremías 17:5-10, Salmo 1:1-2. 3. 4 y 6, Lucas 16:19-31; Viernes: Génesis 37:3-4. 12-13. 17-28, Salmo 104:16-17. 18-19. 20-21, Mateo 21:33-43. 45-46; Sábado: Miqueas 7:14-15. 18-20, Salmo 102:1-2. 3-4. 9-10. 11-12, Lucas 15:1-3. 11-32

IMAGEN DE DOMINIO PÚBLICO

Guglielmo Giraldi (1445-1489). Santa Catalina de

Bishops sue Trump administration, say halting refugee resettlement funds will cause harm

WASHINGTON, D.C. —The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops sued the Trump administration Feb. 18 over the suspension of funding of refugee resettlement assistance.

In the lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, the bishops called this suspension “unlawful and harmful to newly arrived refugees,” The Associated Press first reported.

The bishops also stated in their legal complaint, a copy of which OSV News has obtained, that the suspension – which they described as “a textbook arbitraryand-capricious agency action” – “violates multiple statutes” and “undermines the Constitution’s separation of powers.”

A USCCB spokesperson said the lawsuit urges the government “to uphold its legal and moral obligations” to refugees and to restore the funding needed to ensure that faith-based and community organizations can continue their work with refugees.

The USCCB’s Migration and Refugee Services is one of 10 national resettlement agencies that work with the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program, which was established by Congress in 1980, formalizing the process by which refugees are legally resettled in the United States. USRAP was suspended through an executive order signed by President Donald

Trump Jan. 20 and is being evaluated to see whether refugee resettlement “is in the national interest.” The State Department issued suspension notices to domestic resettlement agencies, including the USCCB, on Jan. 24, which has impacted resettlement agencies’ ability to carry out services for refugees, including those under the Reception and Placement Program, according to an alert to support refugee resettlement seen in USCCB’s Action Alert Center.

The R&P Program is a domestic effort that provides assistance to newly arrived refugees to meet initial needs such as housing and job placement during the first 90 days that they are in the country.

According to AP’s reporting on the lawsuit, the USCCB’s president, Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio of the U.S. Archdiocese for the Military Services, said that “the conference suddenly finds itself unable to sustain its work to care for the thousands of refugees who were welcomed into our country and assigned to the care of the USCCB by the government after being granted legal status.”

Chieko Noguchi, USCCB spokesperson, told OSV News Feb. 18 that the lawsuit filed by the USCCB “challenges the suspension of the funding for refugee assistance we have run for decades.”

— OSV News

Canongate Catholic High School

for the 2025-2026 academic

Thoroughly Catholic. Forming souls and minds. Canongate seeks to educate the whole person through four pillars: wonder, attention, freedom, and joy

Florida

priest named auxiliary for U.S.

military archdiocese

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Pope Francis has appointed Father Gregg M. Caggianelli, a nearly 30-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force, as auxiliary bishop of the U.S. Archdiocese for the Military Services. Bishop-designate Caggianelli, a priest of the Diocese of Venice, Florida, is currently at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where he serves as the mobilization assistant to the U.S. Air Force Academy chaplain. He holds the military rank of colonel. He is also a vice rector of St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach, Florida. The appointment was publicized in Washington Feb. 21 by Cardinal Christophe Pierre, apostolic nuncio to the United States.

The Archdiocese for the Military Services, which has its headquarters in Washington, serves U.S. Catholics in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and at the Department of Veterans Affairs and those in government service outside the United

States. Worldwide, an estimated 1.8 million Catholics depend on the military archdiocese to meet their spiritual and sacramental needs. HHS issues guidance on ‘clear sex-based definitions’ following executive orders

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced Feb. 19 it has started to send out guidance on “clear sex-based definitions” to government agencies, outside organizations and the public. The department said it is now implementing recent Trump administration executive orders on sex and gender. HHS stated in its announcement that its new guidance “recognizes there are only two sexes: male and female.” It also said the department would use these guiding definitions to “promote policies acknowledging that women are biologically female and men are biologically male.” HHS also stated it was taking steps to implement policies aimed at protecting minors from undergoing certain transgender medical and surgical interventions. Additionally it stated it would implement Trump’s executive order effectively barring biological males who identify as transgender from taking part in women’s and girl’s sports. Trump’s executive orders on sex and gender have been praised in different statements issued by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops for “recognizing the truth about each human person as male or female.”

— OSV News

Caggianelli

Our world

CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

World prays for

pope’s health, listed in ‘critical,’ but ‘stable’ condition

CINDY WOODEN Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis’ “clinical condition remains critical but stable” and the “prognosis remains guarded,” the Vatican’s evening bulletin said Feb. 25.

The 88-year-old pope, who has been in Rome’s Gemelli hospital since Feb. 14, has had no recurrence of “acute respiratory episodes,” the Vatican said.

The “hemodynamic parameters” that measure heart health “continue to be stable,” the bulletin said.

In the evening, Pope Francis underwent the third CT scan of his hospitalization to monitor his double pneumonia, it said.

A source said the results of the CT scan were not expected until the next day and specified that the pope’s “stable” condition included the “mild renal insufficiency” that the pope’s doctors had reported Feb. 23 but that they said was “under control” by the next evening.

“In the morning, after receiving the Eucharist, he resumed work,” the bulletin also said.

In a sign affirming that Pope Francis has

been able to work while in the hospital, the Vatican said earlier Feb. 25 that the pope had signed several decrees regarding sainthood causes the previous day during a meeting at the hospital with Cardinal

Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state, and with Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, substitute secretary of state.

The announcement followed a typically brief morning update on the health of the 88-year-old pope, which said, “The pope rested well, all night.”

Hours after visiting Pope Francis in the hospital, Cardinal Parolin led the recitation of the rosary in St. Peter’s Square, praying for the pope and his health. Some two dozen cardinals joined the nighttime prayer, along with officials of the Roman Curia and hundreds of Catholics from Rome and around the world.

The 9 p.m. rosary will be a fixed appointment, the Vatican said. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, pro-prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, led the prayer Feb. 25 with more than a dozen cardinals and hundreds of faithful.

“We pray for the health of our Holy Father Francis,” Cardinal Tagle said. “Through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, may he experience the loving presence of the Risen Lord and the supportive closeness of the Christian community.”

Catholic bishops throughout the U.S. are calling on faithful to pray for Pope Francis

“Let’s pray hard for the Holy Father!” wrote Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles in a Feb. 23 X post. “Let’s entrust him to the tender care of Our Blessed Mother, may she be close to him in his hour of trial and may she guide him to a full and speedy recovery.”

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops encouraged Catholics to pray the rosary for Pope Francis Feb. 24 at 3 p.m. ET. The prayer aligned with a rosary in St. Peter’s Square at 9 p.m. Rome time led by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican secretary of state, “to show the closeness of the Church to Pope Francis and all who are sick.”

The statement noted the pope’s blood tests revealed an abnormally low count of

Bishop Martin: Pray for the health of Pope Francis

CHARLOTTE — In light of Pope Francis’ ongoing health challenges, Bishop Michael Martin is calling on Catholics to pray and engage in acts of kindness or sacrifice to be in spiritual communion with the Holy Father. He offered these thoughts this week to priests of the diocese’s 93 churches to share with the people at Mass:

“I and the Catholic faithful of the Diocese of Charlotte continue to monitor reports of the health of Pope Francis with deep concern for his wellbeing and with trust in God’s Providence. Pope Francis has been an example of faithful discipleship throughout his life and continues to offer us example even in the suffering he is experiencing in sickness. To all those who bear the cross of illness, know that our Holy Father is united to you during this critical time. I exhort all the faithful of our Diocese to pray and engage in some act of kindness or sacrifice to be in spiritual communion and support with Pope Francis. We offer prayers for him during this challenging time and entrust him to the care of his excellent medical team as well as to God’s blessing through the intercession of St. Francis of Assisi, St. Ignatius, and Our Lady Mother of the Church.”

platelets, associated with anemia, requiring him to receive blood transfusions. Blood tests administered Feb. 23 also showed “initial, mild renal insufficiency, at present under control,” said the Vatican.

Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin of Newark, New Jersey, also urged prayers for the pope. In a Feb. 22 post on X, the cardinal said, “On this feast of the Chair of Saint Peter let’s pray that the Holy Spirit will continue to guide Pope Francis in his ministry of hope. May the Spirit of God grant him good health, courage, wisdom and peace.”

Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda of St. Paul and Minneapolis also tweeted a prayer Feb. 22. “On this Feast of the Chair of Peter, we join Catholics and those of good will around the globe in praying for Pope Francis: May he be restored to good health and be comforted at this critical time by our prayers and the maternal intercession of Mary, Help of the Sick,” he said.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has posted a prayer for Pope Francis on its website, asking God to “look favorably on your servant Francis … that by word and example he may be of service to those over whom he presides so that, together with the flock entrusted to his care, he may come to everlasting life.”

— Catholic News Herald

Martin

OSV NEWS | YARA NARDI, REUTERS Children pray for Pope Francis next to a statue of St. John Paul II outside Rome’s Gemelli Hospital Feb. 19, where Pope Francis has been receiving treatment.

Israel devastated by ‘macabre’ return of child hostages’ bodies

JERUSALEM — The body of Shiri Bibas – the mother of two red-headed boys who became a symbol of Israeli hostage suffering, both confirmed dead – was eventually returned Feb. 21, with the Bibas family confirming Feb. 22 that it was the body of the boys’ mother. Israel identified three of the four bodies of hostages returned Feb. 20 but had said the body of Shiri Bibas was not one of them. She was not returned that day as promised by Hamas, sparking outrage throughout the country. The body of 83-year-old peace activist Oded Lifshitz was returned, along with the bodies of the two young boys: Ariel, 4, and Kfir, 9 months. The fourth body returned with theirs was that of an unidentified woman. The boys “were murdered by terrorists in cold blood ...

with bare hands,” an IDF spokesman said. Reuters reported that Hamas claimed that their mothers’ remains got mixed up with other bodies because of IDF bombings, but this was not confirmed by Israel. Hamas militants paraded the coffins with propaganda imagery Feb. 20, drawing international condemnation.

Jubilee

of Deacons focuses on synodality, women deacons

ROME — An international group of permanent deacons and their wives met in Rome to reflect together on how their service can contribute to building a more synodal Church, one where the gifts and responsibilities of all members are recognized.

Questions about the possibility of opening the diaconate to women were part of the conversation Feb. 21 at Rome’s Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere during the Jubilee of Deacons. Sponsored by the Community of the Diaconate in Italy and the U.S.-based Discerning Deacons, the meeting drew about 250 people.

Belgian Deacon Geert De Cubber, the only permanent deacon who was a member of the synod assemblies in 2023 and 2024, told the group in Rome how he had to explain the role of permanent deacons at the synod to a bishop who had said he did not need deacons because he had enough priests. “His words broke my deacon’s heart,” he said.

Reflecting on the diaconate “inevitably raises the question of the inclusion of women,” he told the group, adding that he believes women should be ordained deacons as long as steps are taken to “ensure they are not clericalized.”

Speaking later to Catholic News Service, Deacon De Cubber said, women “definitely bring

something unique to the Church as a whole. So why couldn’t they bring something new and perhaps unexpected into ministry, including ordained ministry?”

“We should seriously think about that,” he said, adding that women served as deacons in the early Church, “so it is in our tradition.”

Vance shines global spotlight on case of British army vet

LIVERPOOL, England — The British army veteran prosecuted for silently praying in front of an abortion clinic was, to his own surprise, caught in the global spotlight when his case was cited by U.S. Vice President JD Vance in a Feb. 14 speech at a security conference in Munich.

Adam Smith-Connor was convicted for silently praying near an abortion clinic, violating a “buffer zone” law that prohibits activities such as prayer within 492 feet of abortion facilities. The law, part of the Public Order Act 2023, criminalizes peaceful actions such as prayer and offers of support near clinics. Despite his conviction, Smith-Connor plans to appeal the ruling in July.

Vance criticized Europe for retreating from fundamental freedoms, highlighting SmithConnor’s prosecution as an example of the erosion of conscience rights. Smith-Connor, who recently converted to Catholicism, expressed gratitude that Vance highlighted his case.

A silent genocide is unfolding in Congo, Church sources warn

MAIBA, Congo — A brutal massacre in the North Kivu province of eastern Congo, which left 70 people beheaded by Islamists in a Protestant church on Feb. 15, has drawn international condemnation.

The victims, mostly women, children, and the elderly, were killed by the Allied Democratic Forces, a militia linked to the Islamic State group. The attack, described as an egregious violation of human rights, highlights a broader, long-running crisis in the region, with some Catholic sources calling it a “silent genocide” reminiscent of the 1994 Rwandan massacre. For decades, eastern Congo has been plagued by conflict that has resulted in 6 million deaths. — OSV News and Catholic News Service

ViewPoints

Scott P. Richert

Look to the skies: Science, beauty and meaning

One evening, after dinner at a conference in California, their stomachs filled with good food and better wine, a group of mathematicians and physicists went for a stroll on the beach. As they discussed some of the finer points of the papers they and their colleagues had delivered that day, one of them suddenly cried, “Look!” and pointed to the west.

Far beyond the whitecaps breaking on rock formations along the shore, the sun was sinking into the sea. The few clouds in the sky seemed lit from within, in various hues of red and orange and purple. Golden rays of light so strong that they seemed almost solid played across the waves as the ocean swallowed the fiery orb. And then, just as the last bit of the sun disappeared beyond the horizon, they all gasped as a sudden burst of emerald green, dazzling and brilliant, appeared briefly where the sun had been before fading away, leaving behind only their collective silence and a sense that they had witnessed something irreproducible, unrepeatable, filled with a deep meaning that they all were privileged to share. They stood staring off where the sun had been as the horizon darkened to a deep indigo, headed toward black, and Venus and a few distant stars and the Moon itself emerged from the mantle of the sky, where they had been all along, of course, hidden by the brilliance of the sun.

‘NO SUCH THING AS BEAUTY’?

No one wanted to break the silence, but in the end, someone did. “Wasn’t that beautiful?” he whispered. A few heads nodded, and voices murmured assent, and then one of the mathematicians turned and began walking back whence they had come.

“Of course, there is no such thing as beauty,” he said, his voice rising as his pace quickened. “What we just saw can all be explained by atmospheric conditions, particles of light interacting with moisture in the clouds, the rotation of the earth’s axis, and – let’s be frank – our response to it can be explained by just a bit too much wine.”

Sad laughter rippled through the group as they all turned and followed their colleague in silence once again, their eyes fixed firmly on the ground, their vision freed from their collective flight of fancy.

But that night, after one last drink with his fellow scientists, one young physicist returned to his room, where he lay in bed thinking not of the rotation of the earth and the refraction of light, but of the many sunrises and sunsets he had seen. And as he drifted off to sleep, he could have sworn he heard a voice, low and stately, utter words he remembered from his youth: “Let there be light.”

The mathematician was right, of course: Everything that he and his colleagues had seen could be explained in terms of material causes and outlined on a blackboard in a handful of relatively simple equations. Yet there is no equation that can capture what they experienced. Some people spend a lifetime scanning the horizon at sunset, hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive green flash, only to go to their graves without seeing it even once. But all of us have seen sunsets and sunrises, and we experience them not as the Earth rotating on its axis as it travels along its orbit around the Sun, but as echoes of the words of Genesis: “And evening came, and morning followed: the sixth day.”

BEAUTY POINTS BEYOND THIS WORLD

Both ways of looking at the world are true; one of them is meaningful. And it is meaningful because it points beyond this world, further up and further in, feeding the hunger in every human heart that yearns for something more than equations that purport to explain the seemingly random clash of atoms in a universe that will have no end because it had no beginning – a universe that dominates our minds even though it does not correspond to our experience.

In the modern world, the scientific worldview is (in the jargon of academics) “privileged,” which means that we have to struggle sometimes to see the world as most of humanity has seen it throughout most of history. But when we do break on through, when we experience the beauty of a sunset and that yearning in our soul, we may grasp for just a moment what it means to be made in the image and likeness of God.

SCOTT

P. RICHERT is the publisher of OSV.

Of course science is real, but materialism’s on the ropes

Science is real,” declared The Sign, which for a time seemed to glare at me from almost every house in the neighborhood. I’ve always hated yard signs, but that one redefined “obnoxious.”

Like every claim on The Sign, this one was both obvious and, in another way, false. Of course science is a real thing. No one doubts that scientific inquiry has value, enabling mankind to learn important truths about the natural world. It doesn’t follow that scientists are always reliable, that they can’t be biased, or that authorities wearing the mantle of “science” should be treated as authoritative on all subjects.

It feels as though the acolytes of science will never let go of their petty grudges. But perhaps that’s not true. After reading Spencer Klavan’s new book, “Light of the Mind, Light of the World,” you may find yourself thinking over the many strange turns that science and religion have taken over the centuries in their dance with one another. It could be that a new era of friendship is just around the corner.

Science and religion are not truly enemies, but there can be tensions between them. We could see apparent areas of tension between science and faith as exciting opportunities to increase our understanding on both fronts. Sadly, those conversations haven’t always been so friendly.

Individual scientists can, of course, be people of sincere faith, but across the modern era, the scientific establishment has played a large role in developing and mainstreaming a reductive materialism that is deeply incompatible with Christianity (and most other faiths).

SCIENCE AND FAITH ONCE ALLIES

Klavan tells the story of how this came to pass. The ancient Greeks – Plato and Aristotle – laid a foundation for recognizing the reality of matter without reducing everything to it. In later centuries, Christians too believed that man was a rational creature, and because they saw the natural world as God’s creation, it was reasonable to expect that it would be “permeable” by human reason. That formed a foundation for natural science in the West. It’s uplifting to look back on this history. From a very early point, science and religion were allies and, in a sense, cousins. So what happened? How did the quest to explore creation lead to the rejection of creation itself?

Human beings may have fallen prey to their own success. From the Enlightenment, natural science became a spectacular success story, from which flowed a wealth of material benefits. It was remarkable, transformative, overwhelming and ultimately dehumanizing.

But here in the 21st century, the scientific framework of philosophical materialists is remarkably dated. Apologists like Richard Dawkins still see the material world through the lens of Newtonian physics. They want to reduce human beings to mere matter, meat machines, clunky bits of stuff moving around bumping into each other. Science has moved well beyond that now.

The scientific developments of the 19th and 20th centuries dramatically transformed the way

scientists think about the material world. Albert Einstein’s breakthroughs changed the way we think about the relationship of matter, energy and time. Then came the quantum revolution, and everything we thought we knew about mind and matter just exploded.

It was a bedrock assumption of the old system that a thing had to be in a given place at a particular time. It was assumed that a thing that moved from point A to point B must pass through all the space in between. But it turns out that atoms are nothing whatsoever like billiard balls, and in exploring the subatomic realm, physicists stumbled into a startling discovery. There appear to be things at this level that behave as material objects are “supposed” to behave only when we’re looking at them.

“Quantum equations don’t describe the outlines of a world we can see and touch: they describe the limits where things cease to become tangible or visible,” writes Klavan. “The world beyond those limits is not made of solid objects.”

EXCITING TIMES FOR THEISTS

Some might be tempted to dismiss the quantum revolution, treating the subatomic world as a phantom or fantasy. But we know things about it, and have used quantum mechanics to accomplish remarkable things. Clearly it is real. The only reasonable thing to do is to readjust our paradigms again, accepting that the old way of thinking about mind and matter was inadequate.

For a theist, that might be exciting. Once again, we uncover whole new layers of creation, wonderful and strange (and extremely useful). Once again, it turns out that our rational minds have remarkable capacities that enable us to fathom the mystery. Thanks be to God!

For the materialist, the situation is much grimmer. He was very attached to his chunks of stuff.

As one would expect, many scientific materialists have tried to save their metaphysically impoverished faith by coming up with clumsy fixes. They talk about “multiverse theory” or “supervenience.” Some people are willing to say or believe almost anything rather than crack the door to the possibility that a Creator might actually be the simplest explanation for what we see around us every day.

Science is indeed real, and no one who loves God should be distressed by the study of His creation. Indeed, we should overflow with gratitude for galaxies of wonders, stretching unfathomable distances in every direction and yet also waiting to be uncovered in a realm too small to be seen. We have truly been blessed. At the same time, we have seen how scientific successes can beget both pride and grave philosophical error. It’s time to work on healing that damage. “Light of the Mind, Light of the World” gives some clues as to how it might be done.

RACHEL LU is a contributing writer at America magazine and National Review. She is a former Peace Corps volunteer, holds a doctorate in philosophy from Cornell University, and currently works as an associate editor at Law & Liberty. This is condensed from an article published at wordonfire.org.

Rachel Lu

Family is where we learn to serve the least among us

Ask any parent who launched their child only to have them return home or encouraged them through rehab only to watch them relapse.

Ask any adult child who has welcomed their parent into their home as aging, illness or disability demands.

Ask couples who have blended families after divorce or death of a spouse.

Ask families who have weathered unexpected and devastating medical complexities.

Family life is no straight line soaring upward to success. It rises and falls, dips and doubles back, twists and turns in directions we never saw coming.

But family is the way that we learn to love, serve and humble ourselves over and over again to care for Christ in our midst.

In families we are constantly called to rearrange our lives around the ones who need the most help: a newborn baby, a sick child, a broken leg, a stomach flu, a broken heart, a job loss, a new diagnosis or a mental health crisis.

‘Family life is no straight line soaring upward to success. It rises and falls, dips and doubles back, twists and turns in directions we never saw coming. But family is the way that we learn to love, serve and humble ourselves over and over again to care for Christ in our midst.’

CARING FOR THE POWERLESS

But the school of love that is family life is not simply meant to produce a “finished product,” especially if we hold up able-bodied, successful, healthy and independent adults as the only goal.

Instead, we are called to care for the least among us all life long.

In the Old Testament, God keeps calling the people to care for the widow, the orphan and the foreigner. These three categories were the weakest, the overlooked and the powerless: the least among us.

Through the prophets and leaders, God reminds the people over and over again to show special attention, love and mercy to the ones who lack status, influence or resources: “For the Lord, your God, is the God of gods … who executes justice for the orphan and the widow, and loves the resident alien, giving them food and clothing. So you too should love the resident alien” (Dt 10:17-19).

‘WHATEVER YOU DID … YOU DID FOR ME’

Jesus makes the call to care for the vulnerable ever clearer in the Gospels, when He identifies Himself with the hungry, thirsty, naked, sick and imprisoned: “Whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me” (Mt 25:40).

The Catechism of the Catholic Church also teaches that families were created to care for the vulnerable – and also to call societies in turn to care for those in need: “The family should live in such a way that its members learn to care and take responsibility for the young, the old, the sick, the handicapped, and the poor. There are many families who are at times incapable of providing this help. It devolves then on other persons, other families, and, in a subsidiary way, society to provide for their needs: ‘Religion that is pure and undefiled before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction and to keep oneself unstained from the world’” (CCC 2208).

KINGDOM OF GOD STARTS AT HOME

This is how families work toward the kingdom of God.

We clean up when kids get sick, and we teach our children to care for creation.

We make dinner every night, and we share what we can with those who need help.

We fold laundry, and we show our children how to vote and contact our representatives.

We cheer for each other, and we talk about the daily news in the light of faith.

We pray for one another, and we pray for those who have no one to pray for them.

Families embody what it means that the first shall be last and the last shall be first.

We cannot ignore the call to serve the least within our walls – and within our world.

The kingdom of God demands both.

LAURA KELLY FANUCCI is an author, speaker and founder of Mothering Spirit, an online gathering place on parenting and spirituality.

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With Every Step, Hope Grows

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