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Serving Catholics in Western North Carolina in the Diocese of Charlotte

Volume 6 Number 36

•

May

23,

1997

D.C. Pair Preach Respect For

Of Hate

Diversity, Intolerance MARK PATTISON

By

WASHINGTON

(CNS)

— Vice

reluctant to

come

forward. "In the past,

hate crimes were not taken seriously,"

President Al Gore and Attorney General

she said. "The victims were vilified for

Janet Reno, speaking at the Anti-Defa-

reporting the incident."

mation League's annual leadership conference in Washington, spoke out against hate crimes being committed in the United States and promoted respect and tolerance for racial, ethnic and religious differences.

Comparing

the fight against intoler-

ance to the Middle East peace process, Gore said May 20 that while much has been done, "we have not traveled nearly far enough. We have a lot of work to do."

Gore added, "People look to us (in the United States) as the example of the proposal that we human beings on the Earth have the God-given gift to rise above the differences ... to rise above the evils that are unleashed in the human

To bring about an upswing

in the

reporting of hate crimes "requires great sensitivity

and great patience," she

"If nothing

is

said.

done, the victim's fears will

have been vindicated."

In a question-and-answer session, Reno suggested that groups to support hate-crime victims be formed along the lines of Mothers Against Drunk Driving and groups that support victims of domestic violence.

"Be as constructive as you can" when talking with prosecutors and monitoring the course of hate crimes through the criminal justice system,

Reno

said.

"Tell the victim every step of the

way

pronged approach

The vice president said that the twoall Americans should

doing the right thing."

Reno, in her talk, also spoke highly of the benefits of prevention, plugging legislation that would channel anti-youth

follow involves "respect for differences

violence grants directly to courts to set

and appreciation for diversity" while "reaching out to embrace all that we have

up

spirit."

in

common."

Reno,

who spoke

May

before Gore

that they are

own

their

initiatives.

Youth skinhead gangs are responsible for some hate crimes, she said, adding that while violent crime

may

is

"down

sig-

20, said the Department of Justice wants

nificantly,"

and make it a systemic part of the Justice Department's

the projected growth in the teen-age

to "eliminate hate crimes

it

rise

again because of

population in the next 10 to 15 years.

efforts."

Since 1989, 500 defendants have been convicted of hate crimes, virtually all of those who have been tried, she said.

Of the 400 church arsons investigated since January 1995, 187 arrests have been made in 136 of the cases a record Reno said which was double the

FBI and Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms agents have investigated church

Gore touched upon last year's spate of church burnings to close his remarks, noting when in western Tennessee, his home state, two churches one white, one black, about two miles from each other had burned about a year apart.

The cause of the white church's fire may have been electrical, and the black church was the first church to donate to its rebuilding. A year later, the black church burned due to a probable arson, and the white church responded in kind by making the first donation for the black

burnings.

church's reconstruction.

—

typical arson arrest rate.

"There ing

some

is

more

to

do but we are mak-

inroads," she said.

"Our efforts 200

are paying off," she said, noting that

—

—

The church arsons have "generated

Neither congregation had met the

a tremendous response" around the coun-

other before the church burnings. But

Reno said, leading to her hope that Americans can erase "the hate and big-

"tragedy brought the communities together and (they) might never have been

try,

otry that

is

too often in our midst."

Reno said hate crimes are underreported because their victims are

brought together except for the event," Gore said. "Man intended it for evil, but God intended it for good."

To the tourist in everyone. An unidentified along the Rue de la Grotte in Lourdes.

inside

Shrines of

Pope Speaks

4 5

Fmnce Pilgrimage Photos

Entertainment

News

Briefs

7 14-15

By

MIKE KROKOS Editor

BELMONT Convent and

— Like Sacred Heart

its is

Sisters of Mercy, a fixture in Gaston

County history.

No, the 84-year-old nection to local lore

is

is

member

not a

Rather, her convia the workplace:

Rankin was employed at the former Sacred Heart College and the Sisters of Mercy Motherhouse for more than 60 years. She recently retired and was honored with a surprise dinner May 5 where family and friends honored Rankin for her years of service and commitment to the community.

1

8-9

Parish Profile

16

for

postcards

60+ Years Serving Mercy Community

of the religious order.

Columns

shops

Mildred Rankin Retires After

Mildred Rankin

Marian

sister

"Mildred is a special person; she's of our Mercy family," said Mercy Sister Rosalind Picot, president of the Sisters of Mercy of North Carolina. "We become very involved in the lives of our employees and they become a part of our part

lives. It's

more

like family here than a

may

it always be that way."

For the Mercy president, the memories of Rankin go back many years specifically, when Sister Rosalind was a college student at Sacred Heart. At that time, Rankin worked in the dormitories at the school. "Mildred used to look out for us. She used to warn us, 'so and so is coming.' And she used to do extra little

business, and

—

See Memories, page 2

2

The Catholic News

& Herald

May

1997 Diocesan Support Appeal Exceeds Goal

Retirement Brings Back Memories For

Belmont Community,

from page

23, 1997

1

By

MIKE KROKOS Editor

CHARLOTTE — Thanks

to

the generosity of parishioners

throughout western North Carolina, the 1997 Diocesan Support

Appeal

is

the

most successful campaign

in history.

As of May 19, $2,917,905 had been pledged, putting the appeal at 113 percent of the $2,580,000 goal. To date, 55 parishes have exceeded their goal; another 12 are at 90 percent of their tar-

geted goals. All told, 17,107 households donated to the campaign.

"The generosity of this year's allows

DSA

many opportunities for us to con-

tinue to provide an extension of

God's

gracious gifts of faith and service to those

Mildred Rankin (right) receives a plaque from Mercy Sister Rosalind Picot for her 60+ years of service to the Sisters of Mercy. Also pictured is Rankin's daughter, Gloria Burton.

Bishop William G. Curlin. prayers of thanks- are with all our

in need," said

"My

members

coming.'

And

she used to do extra

little

things for us, like ensure that

we

our laundry back. She loved

the girls,"

all

got

all

termed was a much-anticipated celebration. "I've been waiting 20 years for

Mother to retire.

I've put in

my time with

Sister Rosalind said.

the state of North Carolina (as a teacher),

Mercy Sister Pauline Clifford, vice remembers Rankin as a "kind and loving person" who was there for Sa-

and I told

president,

cred Heart students

who had

difficulty

making the transition to life away from home. "When I was in college, I lived on the third floor of the administration building," Sister Pauline said. "Mildred

was very kind

to all us

homesick young

girls."

The college closed in 1 987, but a few years earlier, Rankin had already embarked on a new career: She now worked in the

kitchen at the motherhouse, cook-

ing breakfast each morning for the sisters

before attending

Mass with them.

"That was very important to me," said Rankin, a devout Catholic. "I am a widow, and it gave me strength."

While Sister Rosalind presented Rankin with a plaque for her 60+ years service at last week's retirement dinner, Rankin had a gift for the community as well: The veteran member of the Sacred Heart and Belmont Abbey choruses sang the Ave Maria a cappella for the sisters.

"Mildred's middle name is music," noted Mercy Sister Cecilia Lewis. "She has glorified and praised the Lord with her voice over the years. Music has brought so

much joy

her,

'Mama,

I

can't retire until

Please retire so I can go home,'" she said. "Now I can retire because it wouldn't have been proper for a mother to still be working while her daughter was at home."

Although her working days are done, Rankin plans to continue nurturing the

you

retire.

many

friendships

made

in her six-plus

in faith

who make

our chari-

works possible."

table

"This appeal again demonstrates are looking at stewardship as a way of life," noted Barbara Rohrman, associate director of development. "This year, there's been a real spirit of generosity that has perme-

more and more people

ated the diocese."

DSA

funding allows 37 diocesan

ministries to offer services in parishes

and missions throughout the 46-county diocese. According to Rohrman, seminarian education

was again

a focal point

of the appeal.

"Parishioners were pleased to be in-

educating the seminarians," received a great deal of

decades of service to the Belmont community. "I'll miss these ladies (the sisters), but I'll be back," she said. "They're good people. I'll be living across the street and driving back for Mass every

volved

chance I get."

In return, Sister Rosalind said Rankin will "always be a part of the Mercy family." And a part of the

Each parish and mission was assigned a specific goal for the DSA. Once

Belmont community's history

is

in

"We

she said.

positive feedback

on pledge cards and

letters." Currently, the

men

diocese has 23

preparing for the priesthood.

Prayer is a focus of the DSA campaign as well. More than 4,000 individuals sent in prayer requests to Bishop Curlin. He remembers those petitions in daily Mass.

Operational costs for the DSA are approximately 4 percent of the overall campaign goal. This amount ranks low compared with other dioceses, some reporting expenses as high as 10 percent.

The local appeal is handled by the diocese, not an outside organization.

Though the

to her life."

Rankin's daughter, Gloria Burton, the trek from Durham with her

children to share in what she jokingly

financial goal

is

a

com-

ponent of the campaign, it is not the appeal's only purpose, said Rohrman.

"The DSA provides an opportunity to reach out and help other people.

Through the campaign, we are able to touch thousands of lives throughout the diocese.

"Individuals are generous in support of their parish as well as the

—

many

—

in turn diocesan programs that serve the parish family," Rohrman

added.

achieved, 100 percent of funds over and

Scripture

a de-

\

voted friend of Sacred Heart College students and the Sisters of Mercy.

Headings for tlie

PEWS

Trinity

Sunday:

Deuteronomy 4: 32-34, 39-40

KIVETT'S INC. N.C

of

Philip Neri

—STEEPLES— manafadwer offine

weeJ?

(^^^^^^

c/w/c/i jusniiwe

Monday:

TELEPHONE

made

Romans

8:

Matthew

28: 16-20

14-17

Sirach 17: 19-27

Mark

10:

17-27

-800-446-0945 1-800-334-1 139 I

Clinton. f\orth Carolina

REFINISH1NG

Tuesday:

As

a

and the poor. He became a priest, preached in the streets and spread the 40 Hours

Diocesan School Board Openings: The Diocese of Charlotte School Board has four board member positions filled. The term is for three years. The Board is responsible for proposing policies to Bishop Curlin to enact in governing 17 schools. The Board meets monthly from Sept. -June on agreed upon dates from 6:30-9 p.m. The Board

devotion. Philip organized spiritual conferences for penitents and formed an order of priests called the Oratorians. Known for his cheerful

meetings are held in a different school each month. Interested applicants should send by June 20 a letter and resume detailing parish and/or school involvement and state why you would like Bishop Curlin to appoint you to serve on the Diocesan School Board. Please send information to: Dr. Michael Skube, Superintendent of Schools, 1524 E. Morehead St., Charlotte, NC 28207.

heart

be

holiness, he once said, is

more

made perfect

"A

joyful

is

May

Wednesday:

Thursday

28-31

10:

32-45

Sirach 42: 15-25

Mark Friday:

10:

Sirach 36: 1,5-6, 10-17

Mark

10:

46-52

Sirach 44: 1,9-13

Mark

easily

11:

11-26

than

one that is cast down." He died at age 80 in Rome. His feast

Sirach 35: 1-12

Mark

was born in Florence in 1515. young man he took great inter-

Philip

est in the sick

to

above the goal are returned to the parish. Missions and parishes that fall short will be assessed the difference from their weekly offertory.

26.

Saturday:

Zephaniah3: 14-18 or

Romans 12:9-16 ®

1997 CNS Graphic

Luke 1:39-56

May

The Catholic News

23, 1997

& Herald 3

Ecumenical Dialogue Stresses Christian Unity By

KATHY SCHMUGGE

Correspondent HICKORY As part of a continuing ecumenical effort, Roman Catholic clergy and three other Christian denominations met May 6-7 at the Catholic Conference Center for the annual Bishops' Ecumenical Dialogue, sponsored by the Episcopal Diocese of Western North Carolina, the North Carolina Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte and the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church.

This year's topic was "Clergy Stress Its Implications for the Church," with featured speaker Conventual Father Canice Connors, former president of the St. Luke Institute in Maryland, who has published articles and advised the National Conference of Catholic Bishops in the areas of human sexuality, sexual abuse, pedophilia and other related top-

—

—

ics.

officer for the Charlotte Diocese, has

was an enriching experience.

been involved with the churches' coop-

portant for Christians to be in conversa-

erative effort

LARCUM

man Catholic and United Methodist)

Also in attendance was the Rev. Charlene Kammerer, bishop of the Western North Carolina Conference of the

for

15 years, and sees a positive trend de-

veloping in recent dialogues. "Over the past

few years, a mutual confidence has we are now focusing on

developed and issues that

we share," said Father Kloster,

pastor of

St.

Michael Church in Gastotheme of clergy stress

United Methodist Church. Bishop Kammerer and Bishop Bolick hope to organize another meeting among the

LARCUM bishops

one that is prevalent in the four denominations who sponsored this forum."

"We must find ways

is

"We

share stresses,

human

qualities

and psychological make-up. We should not be emphasizing our differences, but our oneness," added Dr. Donald George, ecumenical liaison officer for the Western North Carolina United Methodist Conference. George has been involved in the ecumenical movement for almost 30 years and has been part of LARCUM since

its

inception.

Synod of Church

Father George Kloster, ecumenical

hopes of expand-

ing the ecumenical effort to

"The greater

Dr. Leonard Bolick,

installed bishop for the

life.

in

nia. "Certainly the

The Rev.

and advice to 26 clergy and leaders on how to live a healthier and

and what we believe, how we see God," he said.

tion about our faith stating clearly

vival tips lay

as

(Lutherans, Anglican/Episcopalian, Ro-

in

all levels.

are

all

who

strangers but leave as friends.

address

denominations and resuming education about the various denominations for new members. all

LARCUM logue as a

participants see the dia-

way

to

break

down

barriers;

where people may come together as

have reached a time where they can no

Racism

S.C. Bishops Confess Sin Of

—

newly

CHARLESTON,

America, said the conference

tinuing to present speakers

planning committee, feels that Christians

Bishop David B. Thompson of Charleston joined with his brother Lutheran, Episcopal and Methodist bishops in South Carolina in confessing the "sin of racism" and asking for forgiveness.

North Carolina

"We

the needs of

to stand united

truth

the Evangelical Lutheran

longer ignore other faiths.

God's people. We must work together and serve God faithfully in the various manifestations of Church." By sharing traditions and theology, individuals gain a better understanding other denominations as well as their own, he added.

The Rev. Bob Crewdson, an Episcopal representative on the planning board, would like to see the ecumenical effort go in a two-prong direction: Con-

and speak words of hope in a world which desperately needs to hear that message," Bishop Bolick noted.

The Rev. Gilmer Miller, a Lutheran minister who serves on the LARCUM

holds us (Christians) together."

Father Connors offered basic sur-

happier

known

im-

"It is

S.C.

The bishops issued

May

a joint statement

6 after attending a

1

(CNS)

May

12-13 dia-

logue on race relations.

"We ask (Jesus) now to help us in our struggles to overcome the sin of racism, that powerful prejudice which pits one race against the other to the damage of all," the bishops said. "We go to each other, confessing guilt and seeking for-

Lord, one baptism, one

human

family,

with equal liberty and justice for

all."

The statement was signed by Bishop Thompson; Episcopal Bishops Dorsey F. Henderson Jr. of Upper South Carolina, Edward Salmon Jr. of South Carolina, and South Carolina Suffragan Bishop William J. Skilton; Evangelical Lutheran Bishop David A. Donges; and United

Bishop

Methodist

J.

Lawrence

McCleskey.

The

The dialogue on race relations is part of an ongoing series of two-day dialogues among Lutheran, Episcopal, Catholic and Methodist bishops and lay giveness." leaders in which the laity participate in The approaching third millennium of a series of talks on the first day, and the Christianity presented the bishops with bishops respond on the second.

Topics covered during the race relaa "unique opportunity" to "face up to the evil of racism totally united in the belief tions dialogue included successful crossthat God created us all in his own image racial clergy appointments, thriving inand likeness, that he created us all equal tegrated congregations, the appointment and that we all have the same inalien- of blacks to leadership positions, the esable right," the statement said. tablishment of bishops' commissions on "No dogmas, no creeds, no Christian race relations, and programs to help condenominations divide us on these be- gregations become more sensitive to ra-

light

liefs,"

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CNS

photo by Bob Roller

U.S. Capitol and the Washington Monument are visible in early morning from the Iwo Jima Memorial. The memorial honoring U.S. Marines depicts soldiers raising a U.S. flag on the island during World War II. Citizens pay tribute to U.S. soldiers that have died in war on Memorial Day, observed

May 26

this year.

it

added.

"Arm

Lord

we

Eucharist and interdenominational mar-

we deserve to be called Christian, have

riage. Last year's dialogue resulted in the

this

the

to assist us,

love for one another, embrace each

other totally and in the

first

belief in one

Remember His Will In Yours. fij|§|

Weekend

Masses: Saturday Vigil

Sunday

—

8:00, 9:30,

Daily Masses:

Monday

Confession:

Saturday—

Saturday

-

— 1:00AM

—

& &

'

4:00 to 5:00PM or by request

Rector: The Very Reverend Paul Gary

Parochial Vicat Reverend Thomas Williamson

1621 Dilworth Road East

Tr' I -WkH

Charlotte,

NC 28203

t (704)334 2283

creation of a

common

cate to be used

by

all

concern for loved ones, as well as an ongoing commit-

ment to the Church and the community in which we live'.'

Bishop William G. Curlin

ou can express your commitment to your Church making a bequest to the Diocese of Charlotte or to your parish. Simply have the following

"/ leave to the

Charlotte (or

Roman

Catholic Diocese of

parish, city) the

sum of $

percent of the residue of my estate) for religious, educational and charitable works."

(or

baptismal

its

For more information on how to make a Will that works, contact Jim Kelley, Diocese of Charlotte, Office of Development, 1524 East Morehead St., Charlotte, NC 28207, (704) 331-1709 or 377-6871.

certifi-

denominations.

"A valid Will stands as a continuing expression of our

statement included in your Will:

12: 10PM 7:30AM Rosary 8:45AM; Mass 9:00AM: Novena 9:30AM

Friday

—

1

5:30PM f 12:30PM

Past dialogue topics have included

must,

ing if

upon

cial differences.

in ann, heart with heart, call-

4 The Catholic

News

&

May

Herald

23, 1997

The Pope Speaks Pope John Paul II

CPro^jBife

Pope Expresses Gratitude For Warm Welcome In Lebanon

Gorner

VATICAN CITY

(CNS)

— Here

of Pope John Paul IPs remarks

text

weekly general audience

May

my

who are haunted memory of abortion:

the

by

That God might gently heal them through the loving work of his Church:

We

pray to the

LORD.

The Diocese of Charlotte Respect

Life Office

704.331.1720

the Vatican

English at his

visit to

Lebanon,

I

gratitude to the president of the republic

to the civil

people

my

post-synodal apostolic exhortation, titled

of Lebanon and the church, and the implementation of the synod will largely depend on them. Lebanon has a long Christian tradition reflected in the presence of the Maronite Church and many other churches, both Catholic and Orthodox. Cooperation among believers, together with restoration of the centuries-long tradition of harmony between Muslims and Christians, must mark the present time of reconciliation and rebuilding after long years of conflict. Only in this way can the preservation of Lebanon's national and cultural identity be ensured. Let us pray that Lebanon, where Christ himself taught and worked miracles, will become a place of tolerance, cooperation and peace.

—

J4iu:r iuiiu

dm Utt Mil:

•<'•<; \ia:\i<t i-toi- lin

>li::'ny lieii

11

r

yiu.i bilisti-

apparition. "The message which the Most Holy Virgin sent this

to all

occasion continues to resound with

humanity on

all its

prophetic

everyone to insistent prayer, to interior conversion and to a generous commitment of expiation for one's own sins and for those of the world," the force, inviting

pope

said.

"A New Hope for Lebanon." Young people are the hope

Pope Sends Message To Fatima On 80th Anniversary Of Apparition VATICAN CITY (CNS) Pope John Paul II sent a message to commemorate the 80th anniversary of

Shaping Beliefs

Bishop Serafim de Sousa Ferreira Silva of LeiriaFatima, was released at the Vatican May 13, eight decades to the day after the first

and ecclesiastical authorities for their warm welcome and hospitality. In Beirut, I presided at the solemn conclusion of the special assembly for Lebanon of the Synod of Bishops and entrusted to the young and

For those

is

14.

Dear brothers and sisters, Following my long-awaited express

in

the

Marian apparition

ing

its

at Fatima, Portugal, emphasizenduring value. The text of the note, directed to

In Times Of Change, Emphasize Church Teachings, Pope Says VATICAN CITY (CNS) Traditional Catholic

—

teachings must be emphasized in times of transition, II told members of the southern African bishops' conference in mid-May. The 27 bishops from South Africa, Botswana and Swaziland were on their "ad limina" visits, which bishops worldwide make every five years to report on con-

Pope John Paul

ditions in their dioceses.

This was the South African bishops' first "ad trip to the Vatican after the demise of apartheid, under which members of the country's white minority governed and suppressed the black majority.

Pope John Paul acknowledged that the country "has had to adapt to radically new social and political conditions" since then. But he urged the bishops to encourage clergy and lay people to stick to conventional Catholic teachings despite this environment of constant change. limina"

Guest Column Antoinette Bosco

Guardian Angels the second man took the other. At the same

Sometimes people experience coincidences which seem to them to involve the direct hand of a higher

arm and

power. These incidents can't be fully explained logi-

time, a third

cally or scientifically.

They leave

the subjects pro-

foundly moved, believing they have been chosen for from a heavenly power.

Many

of these stories point to what Catholics alcalled guardian angels. When I am told an angel story the sincerity of the person who experienced heavenly help comes through so loud and clear that I can't help but be moved.

The Catholic

News

& Herald

May

23, 1997

Volume 6 • Number 36 Most Reverend William G. Curlin Krokos Associate Editor: Joann Keane Staff WritenJimmy Rostar Publisher:

Editor: Michael

Hispanic Editor: Luis Wolf Advertising Manager: Gene Sullivan Production Associate: Sheree McDermott Secretary: Cindy Geppert

1524 East Morehead St., Charlotte, NC 28207 PO Box 37267, Charlotte, NC 28237 Phone: (704) 331-1713 FAX: (704) 377-0842 E-mail: CNHNEWS@AOL.COM

Mail:

The Catholic News & Herald, USPC 007-393, is published by Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte, 1524 East Morehead St., Charlotte, NC 28207, 44 times a year, weekly except for Christmas week and Easter week and every two weeks during June, July and August for $1 5 per year for enrollees in parishes of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte and $18 per year Second-class postage paid at for all other subscribers.

Charlotte NC and other cities. POSTMASTER: Send address corrections to The Catholic News & Herald, PO Box 37267,

Precious Blood Sister Kathryn Ann Gunther of Dayton, Ohio, a reader of my columns, wrote to me of an experience she called her "encounter with angels."

It began when she arrived at a conference for nurses, social workers and pastoral care staff members at the state house in Dayton.

In her words: "Chaplain Nancy, who walked with me in the state house, offered to carry my purse. I have multiple sclerosis and at times find it difficult to carry anything heavy when I walk.

"Out of the corner of my eye I thought I noticed a railing on the right wall. Without looking at the presumed support, I extended my right hand and grasped the supposed railing.

"What a shock I experienced! The band on the railhad grasped was moving faster than I could walk.

Unfortunately, when I am afraid, my body becomes rigid. ing

I

"Suddenly

the

Charlotte,

NC

28237.

was

I

realized that the railing

the banister to the

my

down

I

had grasped

escalator. In less than a

body was stretched to its body was head-first on the banister.

"I heard Nancy scream, 'Someone help us, she can't get down! The next moment I saw two men jump onto the escalator. When they touched me, I felt relaxed and released my hands to them. One of the men took one

minute,

and

my

rigid

entire

'

full length

my

top, lifting both

"Gently

this special gift

ways have

man jumped

onto the escalator from the

I

legs.

found my-

self carried off the escalator.

"What was so remark-

me from the escalator is my feeling no hand contact, no sensation of skin against able about their transporting

no discomfort. It seemed as if I were floating easand comfortably while they lifted me from the banister and carried me to safety.

"Without a doubt I knew three angels had rescued me from the escalator."

When Sister Kathryn Ann sent me her story, she pointed out that her friend Nancy maintains these were just young men, not angels, who merely happened to be there when she needed help. But "God works through human beings," Sister Kathryn Ann noted, and for her the men who delivered her from a fatal fall will always skin, ily

be angels.

It's good to recall that the subject of angels has been around for a very long time. St. Thomas Aquinas, in the "Summa Theologica," wrote about angels: their number and variety, their knowledge and love and their angelic sanctity and angelic sin, too.

St.

Thomas

referred to angels as our "angelic big

brothers" and said they have

much

great intellectual master also wrote,

to teach us.

The

"Some of them

(angels) are friendly with that staunch friendship that

endures, even heightens, throughout our weaknesses, our failures, our pettiness, our positive malice; so friendly as to be

on guard

Antoinette Bosco

is

a

for us

24 hours

CNS columnist.

in the day."

May 23,

The Catholic News

1997

Light

& Herald 5

One Candle

Father Thomas J. McSweeney

A Child's Eye View Of

Pentecost

Celebrating the children's liturgy at

my parish when I was a young priest was always a daunting task, but never more so than at the Feast of the Pentecost. How does one adequately present the mystery of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit to those still mastering the intricacies of tying their

When were

own

shoelaces?

—

with milk! His explanation? "We are the empty container, and the milk is the Holy Spirit." Memorable, if a bit off the theological mark.

My seminary training was far more intricate. The great theologians of Franciscan mysticism Blessed John Duns Scotus and St. Bonaventure viewed the Holy Spirit not so much as an entity to be defined but as a way of life. They draw our attention not to what filled

was growing up such

I

Holy Ghost became the Holy Spirit and Father Rocco took up the challenge. His literally. An homilies were magic amateur prestidigitator and magician, he illuminated the story of the flaming tongues that settled on the heads of the disciples by waving a sparkler wand over an empty glass. Presto! The glass was

tasks

imaginative teaching skills of the parish school nuns, whose own theological explanations at the time left to the

were cautionary tales featuring this thing called the Holy "Ghost" in the role of hero. Sister Rosanne, our jubilant third grade teacher, put it this way: "There is no reason to be afraid of scary ghosts when you are alone in the dark, because God has given us the Holy Ghost who is stronger than the bad ones." Oddly enough it was a reassuring notion for youngsters scared of things that go bump in the night.

Then, somewhere along the way, the

—

—

what the Spirit DOES. Jesus lived and preached freedom and

This

new way of living

was both

exciting and con-

power that enables us to develop and share our Godgiven abilities. That power in its purest form

by manifesting

a

Love.

is

When He

fusing to his friends.

18:3)

Then it was

Jesus announced that

would soon leave, His followers became fearful at

my turn to be

the teacher. Standing in front

Jesus

of those youngsters so many I thought of those theologians and mystics and of Sister Rosanne and Father Rocco. And I asked a question: "What do you like most about God?" One fifth-

lived in their midst. Indeed on that first

grader unhesitatingly shot back: "That's

Pentecost this promised Spirit emboldened them through the ability to see as Jesus did and the courage to act as Jesus did. Not only were their own lives

easy, He helps me do good." Out of the mouths of babes! For insight into what this Pentecost is all about, children and

radically changed, but they brought joy-

need only welcome the Spirit of God, the Spirit of Love who already lives in us and among us.

For a free copy of the Christopher News Note, "Let Go, Let God, " write to The Christophers, 12 East 48th St., New

the prospect of carrying on

years ago,

without His example and leadership. So He promised to send the Spirit who would reveal to

them and

them

sustain in

renewal

ful

all that

of

to the lives

all

they

touched.

Thus was born the Church. The

the Spirit IS, but to

salvation

you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew

People of God, through the

empowered it is

Spirit, are

And who are

to love as Jesus loves.

the child and the childlike

most open to this power: "Unless you change and become like little children,

the impressionable child in each of us

York,

NY 10017.

Father Thomas

J.

McSweeney

is di-

rector of the Christophers.

Question Corner Father John Dietzen

Catholic Witnesses at Protestant

Baptisms Q.

My

ily

of believers."

As

question concerns Catholic

and non-Catholic godparents.

Non-Catholics are permitted to be Christian witnesses for a Catholic baptism. How about the other way around?

May a Catholic be a godparent for a child being baptized into the Lutheran Church? What is the church 's position about this?

A. It is possible for Catholics to do what you suggest at a Protestant baptism.

Catholic understanding is that, normally, godparents at baptism should be members of the Church or ecclesial community in which the baptism is being celebrated.

One reason

is

commit themselves to support the child as it becomes a full member of the community in which the such, they

baptism

is

taking place.

However,

is

it

also Catholic belief

that a valid baptism, in

any Christian

The Origin Of Water And Wine

mixed with

Q. As a convert, I've never learned the significance of adding water to the wine at Mass. Why is this done?

Supper.

with a

The practice of adding water to wine

godparent who is a practicing Catholic.

This happens frequently.

For the same reason, a Catholic may do likewise for a person who is baptized into another Christian community.

almost certainly has its roots in the ancient custom of adding water to allevi-

that sponsors are

These guidelines are found

in the

bitter-

ness, of wine.

This practice

is

countries where wine

still is

common

in

the customary

present not only as relatives or friends

Vatican's Directory for the Application

daily drink.

of the family. They also represent that

of Principles and Norms on Ecumenism, 1993: Nos. 96-98.

Jews of Jesus' time did the same. At Passover meals, for example, water was

particular

community of faith,

that

"fam-

and spiritual meanings.

Irenaeus (second century), for example, was perhaps the first to see in the mixing of water and wine a symbol of the unity of Christians with St.

to religion.

sometimes the

al-

Last

tical

A. As is true so often with religious rituals, the origin of this part of the Mass seems connected with something totally unrelated

ate the strength, or

it

at the

As time went on, the rite was given a variety of mys-

faith, makes one part of the larger community of believers in Christ.

For this reason, and because there may be other ties of friendship and family, a baptized person in another church may be admitted as a Christian witness

in a Catholic baptism, together

the wine, as

most certainly was

Christ in the Eucharist.

The action was later seen also as symbolic of the water and blood which flowed from the side of Christ on the cross. (Jn 19:34)

A free brochure answering questions Catholics ask about the sacrament of penance

is available by sending a stamped, self addressed envelope to Father John Dietzen, Holy Trinity Church, 704 N. Main St., Bloomington, III.

61701.

Letters To the

Editor,

My

soling.

heart goes out to the parent

whose unbaptized, unborn

child died 13

years ago. Father Dietzen's words in the April 25th issue

were excellent and con-

o

it

Now may

add another word even more.

I

to

to reassure that parent

of

God

good, merciful, and loving. With these attributes it is impossible to conceive that He would create human beings in His own image and likeness and discard them. In fact, I firmly believe that the First

only

all,

is

infinitely

way anyone would be

lost is

through a willful and persistent rejection of God. Persons who do not fall

pays for the original sin that He is conceived with. This is possible because Christ through his death has pre-earned for us such forgiveness. These unborn children the

who

die or are killed fall into

same class as the Holy Innocents who

also did not receive sacramental baptism.

Therefore, I dare say that child who died without baptism has, after death,

whether Christian or

flown straight into the arms of the Father to be happy forever. And guess what other surprises await us in heaven!

non-Christian, baptized or unbaptized,

Matthew Thekkekandam

born or unborn, will be recipients of

Greensboro, N.C.

into that category,

eternal salvation.

Secondly, this

by Saint Paul,

CNHNEWB@AOL.COM

is

true as confirmed

Romans

Dear Bishop Curlin:

where

Heartfelt thanks for your check of

he says that the "wages of sin is death."

If the wages of sin is death, then the unborn baby that is dies (or is killed)

$5 1 ,277.24 representing the contribution of the Diocese of Charlotte to the 1997 Collection for the Church in Latin

in

6:23,

America. Our Committee for the Church in Latin

America is most grateful

for this

assistance.

As you know, our purpose

is

to pro-

vide aid to those projects whose thrust

Americans to help themselves. May God bless our concerned U.S. Catholics who under the able guidance of their bishops are bearing true witness of solidarity with our sisters and brothers in the Latin will permit the Latin

—

—

American countries.

Begging a place in your Masses and prayers for our work on behalf of the Church in Latin America, I remain Fraternally yours in Christ,

Most Rev. Raymundo

J.

Pena

Bishop of Brownsville

Chairman, Committee for the Church in Latin America

News &

6 The Catholic

May 23,

Herald

St.Therese Of Lisieux May Soon Be 'Doctor Of Church'

Professor Of Church History To Speak At Oratory Seminar —

ROCK HILL, S.C. Father Joseph Komonchak, professor of church history at the Catholic University in Washington, D.C., is the featured speaker for the

1997 "Visions in Faith" seminar at the Hill Oratory from June 15-18.

Rock

Father

Komonchak

will address the

continuing impact and directions of Vatican II Council for the American church. He offered the following preview of his presentations:

"Over

30

years of have passed since the close of the Sec-

ond

Vatican Council, the watershed event in

the history of

20th

century

Roman

Catholi-

cism, which, Father Joseph Komonchak precisely because of that eventful character, remains subject to various and even contradictory interpretations and evaluations.

"We will discuss recent efforts to reconstruct 'what happened at Vatican

II'

and then review the reception of the Council into the

life

of the church, with

special reference to the church in the

May Queen Would PHILADELPHIA (CNS)

—

— May

beauty.

Mary queen

McGurk was May Mother's Day May pro-

Elizabeth

for the

cession held by the parish of the Cathe-

of SS. Peter and Paul.

She was, it goes without saying,

dral Basilica

But McGurk doesn't fit the stereotype of the young, girlish May queen. She is 90.

The auburn hair she had as a teen has turned to gray. The measured pace of the procession which wound around

beautiful.

the cathedral

her natural

is

gait.

have been so honored," McGurk said after the ceremony. "I've waited years for it. I thank the Blessed "I feel like

Mother "It

I

for giving

me

special emphasis for pastoral leaders, adult learners, catechists and educators.

nar

is

$100.

this day.

was magnificent, and I'm

sure

That year, "Mary Grogan was May queen," she said. "Mary was tall and attractive and looked like a May queen.

She had a court of four girls; I was one of them. Mary was my friend, and I was pleased to be in her court."

McGurk attended John W. Hallahan High School (class of 1925) and worked for a time before marrying George Aloysius McGurk. George has been dead for 40 years, and she has outlived her other two children, George and Joseph.

One thing that has kept her going is community work.

Early in her marriage, when St. Edmond's Home for Crippled Children was located in West Philadelphia, McGurk founded an auxiliary to help the Bon Secour Sisters in their work with

She also has been a Gray Lady volunteer with the American Red Cross and tal.

McGurk said.

"She was 103 years and seven months old when she died. I have her rosary hanging by my bed."

Next to the 1997 May procession, her most memorable procession was at Our Lady of Victory Parish in 1921.

The parish always had grand May processions with

McGurk

is still

all

of the

girls in the

— —

writings

capacity

St.

mittee

May

procession planning com-

member who

offered a pre-bene-

diction reflection in the cathedral.

We

"We

church today, the way we were. are the church that again will be."

are, the

Therese

of Lisieux,

photographed

here as a young woman, may become the 33rd doctor of the church. She would become the third female to receive the designation, which is given to church figures who have made important contributions to explaining the faith and whose teachings are of true holiness.

VATICAN CITY (CNS)

—

St.

Therese of Lisieux, "The Little Flower," may soon be recognized as one of the "bigs" of church history, becoming the 33rd "doctor of the church."

The Discalced Carmelite order and the French Diocese of Bayeux, which includes the city of Lisieux, formally presented the final request to the Vatican Congregation for Sainthood Causes in February, said Carmelite Father Simeon

Tomas Fernandez.

The request included

a

950-page

"positio," or position paper, detailing the

great influence the French Carmelite has

had on Catholic

spirituality in the

100

years since her death.

The documentation included statements of support from about 50 national bishops' conferences, including the U.S.

National Conference of Catholic Bishops, said Father Tomas, the official pro-

moter of the effort.

The bulk of the material, he

true ho-

fa-

said, is

for the Doctrine of the Faith, which has been given, Father Tomas said May 15.

The next step is a discussion and vote by a nine-member special commission of

theologians at the saints congregation.

The opinion of the theologians will be presented to Pope John Paul II, who makes the final decision regarding the proclamation, Father Tomas' said.

"I believe, from rumors I have heard, that the opinion will be given to the pope before the end of June," Father Tomas said.

An official at the saints congregation would not comment on

the schedule of

meetings, explaining, "these things are secret."

Another rumor is that Pope John Paul make the proclamation in Paris in late August when he joins young people for the celebration of World Youth Day. "Many people are saying this, but who knows if it is true? You have to ask the pope," Father Tomas said.

The original eight doctors of the church lived, taught and wrote in the first six centuries of Christianity. Four represent the Western tradition: Sts. Ambrose, Augustine, Jerome and Gregory the Great. Four others represent the Eastern tradition of Christianity: Sts. John Chrysostom, Basil the Great, Gregory of Nazianzen and Athanasius.

will

Western Region Hosts Catholic Quiz Bowl WAYNES VILLE

— Nine teams

of the western region of the Charlotte Diocese met on April 27 at St. John Church for a Catholic quiz bowl.

St. John Two high school teams and St. Margaret from Maggie Valley

from

five parishes

—

—

In the high school division, the St.

for the

Gail, a

by

The process includes obtaining a

middle school teams, comprising fifththrough eighth-graders, went head-to head during the afternoon of competition.

filled to

and whose

teachings were accompanied

vorable opinion from the Congregation

an active member of Poor auxiliary.

crowning of the Blessed Mother statue, to which Catholics from throughout the archdiocese had been invited.

"Together we have rolled back the clock for one brief moment," said Brian

tions to explaining the faith

liness.

competed against one another. Seven

the Little Sisters of the

especially her spiritual biog-

raphy "her importance for people today" and her "charism as a doctor, a master of spirituality."

St. Therese would become the third female doctor of the church. St. Teresa of Avila was proclaimed a doctor in September 1970 by Pope Paul VI. A month later, he conferred the same honors on St. Catherine of Siena. No new doctors have been proclaimed since.

The honor is given to great church figures who made important contribu-

Fitzgerald Hospi-

Mercy

The cathedral was

Taylor, lived with us too,"

Age

watch.

26 years. mother, Genevieve McKinley

$115.

school wearing white dresses and the entire neighborhood turning out to

a volunteer at

is still

is

for "Visions in Faith" are scheduled for 4 p.m. and evening 7 p.m. to encourage commuters.

For information, contact Sarah Morgan at The Oratory, P.O. Box 1 1 586, Rock Hill, SC 29731-1586, or call her at (803) 327-2097.

an active member of the cathedral parish, has shared an apartment with her daughter, Helen,

"My

and board

The sessions

the children.

for

sessions of the semi-

Room

my mother in heaven is looking down.

How happy she would be because she named me after our Blessed Lady."

McGurk, who

all

Radiate Beauty At Any

they are always queens are like brides beautiful. Perhaps there is a special grace which magnifies their own natural

focused on her life, her suffering and death at age 24 from tuberculosis, her

United States." He also encouraged those attending to bring a copy of the Vatican Council II documents.

Father Komonchak brings his experience as a parish priest and college teacher in New York, as well as his education at the Gregorian University in Rome and Union Theological Seminary in New York. Since 1977 he has taught in the Department of Religion and Religious Education at Catholic University.

The New Dictionary of Theology, as well as the English edition of the History of Vatican II, are the chief editorial works by Father Komonchak. He also is author of Foundations of the Ecclesiology for the Lonergan Workshop and continues to work on books and articles on the preparation of Vatican II and on John Courtney Murray.

"Visions in Faith" is open to all with

Tuition for

1997

Margaret team edged out

St.

John's for a

close victory.

The middle school division featured team from St. Joseph Church, Bryson City; two teams from St. Joan of Arc, Asheville; a team from the Basilica of St. Lawrence, Asheville; a team from St. Margaret, Maggie Valley; and two teams from the host parish.

a

The

St.

Lawrence squad won the

middle school finals over the two St. John teams, having posted a near-perfect score on their way to the playoff rounds.

Judges for the contest were Father

Ray Hourihan, pastor of St. John Church; Father Eric Houseknecht, administrator of St. Margaret Church; Father Jim Byer, priest in residence at St. Margaret Church; Sister Mary Ruth, director of St.

Joseph Academy, Maggie Valley; Rev. Mr. Robert Dotson, permanent deacon at St. John Church; Richard Wolf, westerni region faith formation director; Lindaa Dilger; Joan Surber; and Cris Ammons director of religious education at St. Johnl Church.

Moderators were Mike Lodico, teacher at Tuscola High School; and Helen and Jack Gordon of the Basilica of St. Lawrence.

May

The Catholic News

23, 1997

& Herald 7

"Entertainment The following are home videocassette reviews from and Broadcasting. Each videocassette is available on VHS format.

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

Videos

whose chief merit

"Daylight" (1996)

A former medical emergency worker (Sylvester Stallone) single- handedly attempts to rescue a dozen trapped survivors when a tunnel connecting Manhattan to New Jersey collapses at both ends following a fiery explosion. Director Rob Cohen's formula disaster movie works up considerable concern over the fate of

is

showing children

as the real victims of economically

stressed one-parent families. Sexual

references and minimal profanity.

The

U.S. Catholic Conference is A-III adults. The

classification

— PG — parental

Motion Picture Association of America rating

is

guidance suggested.

the frightened victims as their peril

cident-related fatalities and occasional

"Star Trek: First Contact" (1 996) Headed by its bold captain (Patrick Stewart), the 24th century Starship En-

profanity.

terprise battles

mounts from ing supports.

Andy Garcia

portrays an

(right)

of his father (Ian

Holm,

left)

district attorney who tests the honor "Night Falls on Manhattan." The U.S. Catholic adults. The Motion Picture Association

unseasoned

in

—

Conference classification is A-lll restricted. of America rating is R

—

On Manhattan ics-bound NEW YORK (CNS) — The career-

turns to haunt

him when he

district attorney in the

is

re-

brooding drama,

mount).

York

cop for a decade while he slogged his way through law school at St. John's, Sean Casey (Andy Garcia) is still wet behind the ears as an assistant district attorney

when the

street

opportunity of a lifetime lands

at his feet.

Morgenstern (Rob Leibman), the fiercely ambitious D.A., cunningly selects Sean to prosecute a vicious drug dealer (Sheik Mahmud-Bey), who killed three cops in a shoot-out and nearly murdered a fourth, veteran cop Liam Casey (Ian Holm) Sean's

—

highly respected father.

With

by the Sean questioning his own recovering father on the witness stand, the verdict is a foregone conclusion, despite defense attorney Sam Vigoda's (Richard Dreyfuss) claims the electorate riveted

sight of handsome

that his client actually shot in self-de-

fense as the cops were dirty, on the take,

and

set to take

better offer

him out

from a

rival

in favor of a drug dealer.

When the guilty-on-all-counts verdict

comes

tion

is

in,

assured

Morgenstern's re-elec-

—

As he

until a stroke inca-

Sean into the D.A.'s chair.

At this point the story really takes off as Sean discovers his father and his longtime partner (James Gandolfini) may well be corrupt,

inappropriate for children under 13.

acters

come across as grittily realistic

(if

you overlook that a rookie attorney would hardly be handed a major case involving his

own

family).

Slowly, almost sullenly, a dark tale

of idealism clashing with moral expediency unreels as innocence is corrupted and inevitable compromises are reached.

The narrative does turn melodramatic in sections, but whenever it seems

more unexpected which keeps viewers involved in the changing dynamics at hand.

As is often the case, however, the romantic subplot is weak and seems worked into the script just as a respite from the almost all-male cast of characters. Garcia and Olin as two opposing lawyers torn between love and loyalty to their ethical code seem strangely pasfully predictable, a

route

is

taken,

sionless in their scenes together.

The

plot twists at the

end are well-

some

"Heavy" (1996)

to brief vio-

lence, an implied pre-

marital affair, recur-

may be

ring profanity and much rough language,

overturned and that Sean's marriage pro-

the U.S. Catholic

posal to a beautiful

ference classification

—

Con-

is A-III adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating

lawyer (Lena Olin) on Vigoda's team is jeopardized by newly THE CATHOLIC COMMUNICATION CAMPAIGN

is

R

—

restricted.

Some

styl-

nuendo.

The

(Deborah Harry). Writer-director James

Mangold develops the slight situation in some will find ponderous,

"Stephen King's Thinner"

though others may appreciate for focusing on the tenuous nature of human relationships. Sexual situations, excessive drinking and occasional rough language.

The U.S. Catholic Conference clas-

—

—

classification

—

a fashion

(1996) Steadily losing weight because of a Gypsy's curse, a frantic lawyer (Robert

John Burke) takes increasingly des-

perate measures to get the curse lifted.

then comes to love the patient young woman (Kyra Sedgwick) hired to care for them, though their closeness creates

Directed by Tom Holland, the thin premise soon turns into a formula revenge-themed horror story with nasty Gypsy stereotypes. Some gory violence, brief sexual innuendo, fleeting nudity, occasional profanity and recurring rough language.

The U.S. Catholic Conference adults. The classification is A-III Motion Picture Association of restricted.

America rating is R

problems for the wife's hapless husband (Beau Bridges). Kevin Bacon directs a sensitive and very human story of juvenile and adult characters trying to cope with the ravages of chronic depression.

"Swingers" (1996) Lame look at the egocentric lives of several young men (Jon Favreau, Vince Vaughn and Ron Livingston)

adults. A-III The is A- III Motion Picture Association of America

sification

rating

is

R — restricted.

"Losing Chase" (1996) at home from a nervous breakdown, a hostile mother (Helen Recovering

Mirren) of two

little

boys

initially resents,

sexual innuendo, occasional pro-

and an instance of rough language.

The U.S. Catholic Conference clas-

sification

Due

futuristic visuals.

U.S. Catholic Conference is A-II adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG13 parents are strongly cautioned that some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.

Some

complex

set in a

New York

tavern whose aging owner (Shelly Winters) hires a young part-time waitress (Liv Tyler) who soon fascinates the owner's overweight, slowwitted son (Pruitt Taylor Vince) but only irritates the tavern's regular waitress

fanity

tales.

of old-fashioned adventure jazzed

ized violence and fleeting sexual in-

Slow-paced character study rural

fairly

terested in thoughtful, morally

tale

up with

solid dramatic entertainment for those in-

written and should provide

that the cop-killer's

discovered incriminating evidence each is eth

an on-board invasion

The U.S. Catholic Conference clas- by killer aliens while racing back to adults. The Mo- the year 2063, where a crisis on planet sification is A-III tion Picture Association of America Earth could terminate humankind Dirating is PG-13 parents are strongly rector Jonathan Frakes weaves tocautioned that some material may be gether two separate stories for a sci-fi

did in "Serpico" (1973) and

"Prince of the City" (1981), director Sidney Lumet finds his characters mired deep in moral dilemmas for which there are no facile answers.

And he elicits superior performances from Garcia's too naive Sean, more so from street-smart cop father Holm, and even the somewhat shrill D.A. Leibman, who is hell-bent on crushing all political opponents. The situations and char-

pacitates him, propelling local hero

sentence

charred corpses, ac-

—

to reveal despite devastating

consequences.

elected

"Night Falls on Manhattan" (Para-

A New

flooding and collaps-

Some

—

Night Falls

making case of a novice attorney

fires,

is

A-III

—

adults.

tion Picture Association of

rating

is

R — restricted.

The MoAmerica

— —

whose search for work in Hollywood seems limited to party-going and barhopping looking for show biz contacts and available women. Director Doug Liman tries to give a comic tone to the aimless proceedings but the material is

"One Fine Day" (1996) Frantic romantic

comedy

in

too thin to be amusing and the char-

acters are too

which

wrapped up

in

them-

selves to be interesting. Sexual situa-

ting shifts in order to finish crucial job

heavy drinking and much rough language with some profanity.

The U.S. Catholic Conference classification is A-III adults. The

assignments due that day. Director Michael Hoffman relies on star power to

Motion Picture Association of America rating is R restricted.

two overworked single parents (Michelle Pfeiffer and George Clooney) meet one morning and decide to alternate baby-sit-

carry an otherwise predictable story

tions,

— —

8

& Herald

The Catholic News

Bishop Leads Pilgrimage To

Marian

Shrines

OfFrance

Bishop William G. Curlin recently served as spiritual

director for

a group of50

pilgrims from the Diocese of Charlotte. Visiting shrines in Paris, Lisieux, Chartres,

andLourdes in

Toulouse,

France, the group took in

many ofthe holiest sites

in

France before concluding with a

visit to the

the Black

shrine

Madonna

of

in

Montserrat, Spain.

Edgar and Eileen BLtnchette of Charlotte one of the shrine

light

a candle during

visits.

Elsworth

and Bernadette Zimmerman of West

Jefferson during the candlelight procession in

Lourdes.

Ave, Ave,

Ave Maria! Pilgrims from manyFrom Easter to Octo

torchlight procession.

more striking evening with

Mary Klinker of Charlotte fills a bottle with the waters of Lourdes. Many people return home with bottles andjugs of the healing waters.

The waters from the spring unearthed

by Bernadette flow from the spring

along the grotto rate

of 122,400

walls. litres

to the

many faucets

Water flows from the spring at a a day.

<

its

luminary gl

May

Father Anthony Marcaccio

offers

communion

to

23, 1997

Alvera Henley

of Newland, N.C. during Mass at the Shrine of the Black

Madonna

in Montserrat, Spain.

Richard and Loraine Cox renew their marriage vows at the Toulouse Church of the Jacobines, a gothic cathedral constructed 700 years ago. An interior chapel contains the relics

k's join in

e are first

harmonious tribute as they participate in the daily

two daily processions at the grotto; an afternoon and the Blessed Sacrament Procession took place on August 27, 1887.

Photos by Joann Keane

of St. Thomas Aquinas.

9

6

10

The Catholic News

&

May

Herald

23, 1997

People In The News Pope Celebrates 77th Birthday With Children At Rome Parish ROME (CNS) Before members

—

of St. Athanasius Parish launched 77 red balloons in the sky in honor of Pope John Paul IPs birthday, a young member of the parish asked the pope what his birthday promise was. "To be good," the pope responded to the delight of the 300 children spending Pentecost Sunday with their bishop, the pope. As the pope entered the parish meeting room May 1 8, the children sang the Italian version of "Happy Birthday," followed by "Sto Lat," the Polish birthday song.

Pope Meets With Mother Teresa, Blesses New Superior

By CINDY WOODEN VATICAN CITY (CNS)

— Pope

John Paul

II

personally blessed the

new

superior general of the Missionaries of

May 20, but he gave the place of honor to the order's founder, Mother Teresa of Calcutta.

Charity

After lighthearted greetings, the 77-

New

Catholic Miscellany

CHARLESTON, S.C. (CNS)

—

Jor-

dan B. McMorrough, associate editor of the North Texas Catholic in Fort Worth, has been named editor of The New Catholic Miscellany in the Charleston

Mother Teresa the seat directly in front of his desk, the same seat occupied by visiting cardinals, bishops and heads of

worry.

nun elected head of the Missionaries of Charity in mid-March, sat nearby during the half-hour meeting.

"She

is

now

Mother Teresa

superior general,"

told the pope, introduc-

ing her successor. "I

am

completely

free."

With a circulation of about 26,500, the North Texas Catholic is about the same size as the Miscellany.

McMorrough was with the Fort Worth paper for five-and-a-half years.

He holds

a master's degree in journalism

from the

University of North Texas.

"I'm looking forward to visiting parsummer and getting a better

ishes this

feel for the diocese,"

McMorrough

"With our technology he

said,

tools

said.

and our

"we're real close to be-

ing one of the top national papers."

Father Drinan Retracts '96 Bill Veto

Comments On Abortion

WASHINGTON

(CNS)

—

Jesuit

Father Robert F. Drinan has withdrawn

comments he made a year ago saying that

tired,

was no cause

for

After two days of Rome convent, Mother Teresa

rest at the

May 18 with Francesco Rutelli, the mayor of Rome.

He called her "an unstoppable little motor" who had "the same energy she always has met

had."

Nirmala told the pope, "when you were very sick we prayed for you."

The new superior, who had been head of the contemplative branch of the Missionaries of Charity, asked the pope how he was feeling.

"I am well," he answered. In 1996 he had several bouts of stomach ailments and underwent an appendectomy in early October. "God bless the new superior general and all the sisters," the pope said as the

at the air-

although she was

Mother Teresa was

Sister

Diocese.

staff,"

cared for her

port told reporters that there

state.

Editor Of

She was given oxygen upon her arrival May 1 at Rome's airport.

The doctor who

year-old pope offered the 86-year-old

Sister Nirmala Joshi, the 62-year-old

McMorrough Named

dition earlier in the year.

women

left his

private library.

Vatican television showed pictures of Mother Teresa in a wheelchair at one of her order's Rome convents earlier in the day. However, at the Vatican she walked into the papal library and stood talking until the pope offered her a chair.

Mother Teresa has had heart problems and was hospitalized in serious con-

able

secure

to

the

mayor's promise that restoration work would be done on her order's facility at the historic

Gregory Church on the Celian Hill, and he also said he would try St.

to help the Missionaries

of Charity expand their homeless shelter near

Rome's

MotherTeresa

central train station.

Rutelli presented

Mother Teresa

with a thick pile of city transportation passes, which will allow the 100 or so sisters in

Rome

way and trams

Pope John Paul

II during a "completely free" now that Sister Nirmala Joshi has been elected to succeed her as superior general of the Missionaries of Charity.

MotherTeresa introduced Sister Nirmala to the pope during the meeting.

of Calcutta told

Vatican meeting

to ride the buses, sub-

for free for the next year.

May 20 that she

is

members of her

order. If her health per-

Poland May 25 or 26 for vows ceremonies there and to attend the International Eucharistic Congress. She also plans to go to the United mits, she

is

to fly to

States before returning to India.

Mother Teresa was scheduled to preside over ceremonies May 23 and 24 for

although he opposes abortion, he be-

was right to veto would have banned partial-

lieved President Clinton

a bill that

former Massachusetts congressman and faculty

birth abortions. Father Drinan, a

member

at

Georgetown University Law

Center, issued a statement

May

12 re-

made in opinion pieces he wrote for the National Catholic Reporter and The New York Times last May and June, respectively. "I withdraw those statements and any statement that could be understood to cast doubt on the church's firm condemnation of abortion tracting points

—

a doctrine that

I

totally support," the

76- Year-Old Receives Master's Degree

—

IRVING, Texas (CNS) Donovan twice.

Derby almost quit Both times, friends encouraged Derby to continue pursuing a master of

in Piano, and in that work I had many unanswered questions about the Catho-

theology degree in the wake of his wife's

my

—

Now,

of dogged perseverance, the 76-year-old has bedeath.

after three years

come the second-oldest student to graduate from the University of Dallas, a Catholic college.

priest said.

Derby wasted no time applying his newfound knowledge. While his class-

Belgian Franciscan Released, Thin But Unharmed, In Zaire ASSISI, Italy (CNS) A Belgian Franciscan priest kidnapped in Zaire was released unharmed after he was forced to walk for 1 days in the southern

mates were walking across the stage to receive their degree May 1 8, Derby was in New Mexico, helping the poor.

"When my wife passed on, I felt a tremendous void," Derby said. "Although I didn't know exactly what I would do, I knew I needed answers. I've found some of the answers over the last three years. Now I can go on to complete the mission that I believe God has laid out for me."

—

1

Zairian forest, the Franciscan order reported. Father Raoul de Buisseret, pastor of the mission at

Lukonzolowa, was 1 6 "in good

released the morning of May

condition," according to a press release

from the Franciscan general chapter, which was meeting in Assisi. "He is tired, thin from the long walk in the forest, but states he was treated humanely by his kidnappers," the press release said.

From Catholic College

Derby's internal

strife

began

in

1993, shortly after he began a hardearned retirement, when his wife of al-

most 50 years

"My groups

died.

wife and

I

had both

in adult religion at St.

facilitated

Elizabeth

lic faith. I

think pursuing a master's de-

gree in theology

was

the saving grace of

way

the degree could be earned in less

time,"

Bushman

said. "I told

him

that

wasn't really possible. Then he said, 'At my age, I don't even buy bananas unless they're ripe."'

life."

Uni-

Although many students immedi-

versity of Dallas Institute for Religious

ately begin applying their studies after

Derby promptly enrolled

in the

and Pastoral Studies, a program that gives students a broad background in the Catholic faith. He found his new academic life to be rigorous.

"I had to learn how to study again," Derby said. "Many a night I stayed up late,

reading assignments, researching

and preparing papers. I almost quit twice, but my friends urged me to keep pursuing the degree."

When he finally finished the feelings were bittersweet, he said because he felt sad to leave something that he had been "so closely bonded with for three years."

Douglas Bushman, director of the university's Institute for Religious and Pastoral Studies, said few students exhibited the kind of fervor with which Derby approached his studies.

"He saw a three-year program stretched out before him and during our initial meeting, he asked if there was any

graduation, Derby's plans have a unique

Derby was not able to receive his at the official ceremony because he moved to New Mexico a week before graduation to work at border missions run by the Catholic Church.

If all goes as planned, Derby will help run several sparsely populated twist.

degree

Catholic parishes that serve the border area.

The

parishes,

which cover thou-

sands of square miles, are served by only three Catholic priests,

parish to parish like

who

travel

modern-day

from

circuit

riders.

Derby encourages others who find themselves in similar life situations to also consider the academic path.

"It's not easy to go back to the classroom," he said. "It's difficult to think of an elderly man choosing a new career.

But it's good discipline and it pays off in many ways. I thank God for it."

"

May

1

The Catholic News

23, 1997

& Herald

1

For Tonight Host, Cleanliness Next

Wno s helping parent ?

To Godliness By

In

Joke Department

MARK PATTISON

WASHINGTON (CNS) — Jay Leno has been in

comedy

nearly 30 years

—

he was voted funniest boy in his high and he says school graduating class he knows how to keep from stepping

—

over the line into bad taste.

In a telephone conference call in May with reporters to commemorate the fifth anniversary of his hosting "The

Tonight Show," Leno said that when viewers write saying they are offended by one of his jokes, "I call the people and apologize to them."

A criticism Leno says he has heard continuously since taking over the helm

of "The Tonight Show" from Johnny Carson is that he's not "edgy" as he was in his earlier days doing stand-up comedy across the country.

Leno pleads guilty.

To "You're in people's homes every that

night," said the comic,

who

is

—

Leno said his influence keeps him from us-

In the conference call,

parents'

ing salty language.

Leno, in his recent autobiography,

"Leading With My Chin," said his mother would never tolerate "anyone

who

took the Lord's

name

in vain," her

son included.

remember being home

mid1980s, watching the Roberto DuranSugar Ray Leonard fight on TV with my dad," he recalled. "One of the fighters took a fall." Leno, excited by the turn of events, used Christ's name in vain.

"I heard what I thought sounded like hoofbeats approaching: 'thump thump thump thump.' The whole house was rattling," he wrote. "I wondered: 'What's "I

that?

An

mother

The

last

in the

earthquake?'

"Then suddenly:

BONNNK! My

me

on the head with a pot. time that happened was when I

hit

got caught ditching high school."

She told him: "Not

"I felt a dent in the side

Leno added.

In the book he for

comedy clubs,

from a job thing

I

niovie scenes ?

also said that except

"I've never been fired

my

in

of my head!

life.

never needed

The

That was some-

my parents to see."

in this

house!

...

Catholic Communication

Campaign,

Both of them lived long enough, though, to see Leno succeed Carson in the host's chair of "The Tonight Show" on NBC and weather the withering criticisms early in his tenure on the program.

Leno is self-deprecating. As for be-

dialing our

that's

who. By

Movie Review

Line,

1-800-31 1-4CCC, callers hear reviews of movies in national release.

ing host, "it's not particularly hard," he

We

are about instilling

positive values that children

can

"*'

told reporters in the conference call. "It's

^/^p?

them throughout

carry with

very time-consuming."

His involvement with the show is more than the one hour he spends on camera. "I make the most money on this

their lives.

This

show," Leno said. "So I'm the first one here and the last one to leave."

is

one of many projects made

just

by parishioners

like you.

Whether

it's

possible

in your

hometown or across the nation, the Catholic Communication Campaign is working for you.

the son of

an Italian-born Catholic father and a Scottish-born Presbyterian mother.

"People need to get comfortable with you. People need to trust you."

Leno said he depends on his studio audience's reactions to inform him whether he's stepped over the line.

In an interview with Broadcasting & Cable, a trade magazine, Leno elaborated on his approach.

"You have to have a sense of who is watching and who you are going to hurt.

The best philosophy is be kind, be kind, be kind," he said.

He makes sure his comedic targets are fair game.

"I don't think we pick on the president any more than we pick on any other political leader. I used to get 'Why are you always picking on Bob Dole?'

Whoever' s in the paper and the president is in the paper you do because people laugh at it," Leno said.

"I don't do jokes about Chelsea (Clinton). I don't do jokes about Hillary (Rodham Clinton) unless Hillary has done a particular political thing. I don't do jokes about Hillary as a woman."

—

You'll not say that in this house!"

Carolina

And

Catholic

Good News.

the

4410-F Monroe Rd. NC 28205 (704) 342-2878

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Welcome

Employment Opportunities experience. Graduate degree preferred.

Director of Youth Ministry: Grades 6-12.

Full-time position in 1,400-family parish.

Parish is implementing lectionary-based catechesis for all programs. Responsibilities

Associate

include coordination of

of

activities: faith

all

youth ministry

sharing sessions, retreats, ser-

Campus 15.

Campus

Minister. Position available July

E.O.E. Send

and references

Campus

Chapel

The

Minister reports to the

letter to:

Diocesan Coordinator

Ministry, 218 Pittsboro

Hill,

NC

St.,

27516.

vice projects, social events; recruiting and training of volunteer catechists; sacramental

Member of team with children's reeducation director and

preparation for confirmation.

Part-Time Youth Minister: Position able at

Our Lady

of

Mercy

Parish.

school students

Master's degree or equivalent in

reli-

gious education or closely related field preferred. Excellent benefits

and salary com-

mensurate with experience/education. Position available July 1 1 997. Send resume and ,

to: TYM, Search Committee, St. Patrick Church, 2840 Village Dr.,

reference

Fayetteville,

NC

28304. Point of contact:

Don Bray, 910-323-2410.

Youth MinisParish team and

desirable.

would be part of the work in collaboration with

ter

27127 Teacher: Catholic

549-0199,

needed days a week for

certified teacher

to teach 4-year-olds three

Campus Minister: North Caro-

may

Youth Minister Search Committee, Our Lady of Mercy Parish, 1919 S. Main st., Winston-Salem, NC

If interested call (704)

ext. 21.

lina State University, Raleigh, N.C., seeks

a full-time Associate

Campus

Minister to

The successful

Horizons of the

June

Spirit

14-18

Keith Egan, Ph.D.

Helen Kenick Mainelli, Ph.D

to:

1997-98 school year.

Associate

the director of

faith formation. Interested applicants

send resumes

P.O.Box 11586 Rock Hill, SC 29731-1586

Some

ligious tor.

Charlotte Avenue

(803) 327-2097

experience working with middle and/or high

Catechumenate/liturgy /adult education direc-

434

avail-

religious education

is

THE ORATORY

of application, resume

Secretary: St.

Thomas Aquinas Church

Horizons of the Spirit is an ecumenical conference on prayer and spirituality held each year at The Oratory. Each summer there are two featured lecture series, one in the morning and one in the evening. In addition, workshops are offered in the afternoon, from which one choice can be made for

the week.

candidate will demonstrate collaborative

looking for an energetic parish secretary who enjoys working with people. This in-

commu-

dividual must have people skills, personal

For information write:

and the

Horizons of the Spirit The Oratory P.O. Box 11586 Rock Hill, SC 29731 -1586

serve on the ministry team.

leadership, excellent organizational,

nication and computer skills. Responsibilities include,

but are not limited

to:

fund-rais-

ing, program development, program management, administration and pastoral support. Position requires an undergraduate degree and previous campus ministry or related

is

computer

skills,

ability to

handle

multiple tasks simultaneously. Please mail to: St. Thomas Aquinas Church, 1400 Suther Rd., Charlotte, NC

or fax resume

28213, Fax: (704) 549-1614, Attn:

Crompton.

Candy

8

The Catholic News

12

& Herald

May

Thousands Gather At Funeral For

23, 1997

Slain Officer

Baltimore police carry the casket of slain officer Lt.

Owen E. Sweeney Jr.

at

May

12

funeral services

in

Baltimore. The Catholic officer

was shot

in the

during a routine

back

call.

5

By STEFANI MANOWSKI BEL AIR, Md. (CNS) The

â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

mournful sounds of bagpipes and police

commanders

calling their officers to at-

tention outside a Bel Air Catholic church

punctuated an emotional two-hour farewell to Baltimore City Police Lt. Owen E.

Sweeney

Jr.

Nearly 3,000 law enforcement ers, family, friends

ners gathered at

St.

offic-

and fellow parishioMargaret Church in

and hundreds gathered

the mourners,

outside, standing silently as they listened

and expressed

sounds of the Mass brought to them through an outside loudspeaker.

Sweeney's police cap was brought forward with the gifts of bread and wine during the Offertory and placed on the church ambo. Following Communion, the eulogy was given by Baltimore City Police Sgt. John Slowinski, a family

who

to the

friend.

suburban Baltimore for a May 1 2 funeral celebrated by Cardinal William H. Keeler for the fallen officer.

Sweeney was shot in the back May 7 during a routine call in Baltimore. It

out hesitation," Slowinski said. "He made a difference in our lives and he will be missed."

was

said Cardinal Keeler,

Mass

the city's first police killing in four

there for his officers with-

"Life has changed;

it

has not ended,"

who told the griev-

ing family and fellow officers that

years.

The death of the 47-year-old veteran police lieutenant not only shocked the

parish

"He was

coming together

in

"it is

Communion, love

Owen

mas

violence reaches well beyond the Balti-

to

more City limits.

"Our innocence fades away

sacrifice."

bit

every time something like this hapThomas Malia, asso-

pens," said Father ciate pastor

of

St.

Margaret's.

"It's a real tragedy," said

Pauline

Kempleton, a St. Margaret parishioner for 20 years. "We've never had anything like this happen in our parish or in Bel

To was

a

those

who knew

humble public

him, Sweeney

servant, always

willing to help his neighbors in any

way

duty

is

Baltimore

Mayor Kurt

L.

Schmoke

and Maryland Gov. Parris N. Glendening also attended the funeral but did not speak at the Mass.

A funeral procession made up of 96 motorcycles and 675 cars traveled the 1 miles from Bel Air to Sweeney's burial

Timonium.

The funeral came just

ter

three days af-

Cardinal Keeler and other Catholics

joined leaders of other faiths in an event described as the nation's

service in appreciation of law enforce-

to retire.

The May 9 service at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen drew some 600 law enforcement officers and included read-

Sweeney

at

who went to school with

Our Lady of Fatima

in

Bal-

what he could to help people, but never needed the limelight.

He never needed that recognition."

There was not enough room in the 1,000-seat church to accommodate all timore, said he "did

Consider

PRIESTHOOD in

The Diocese

across the state.

"It's

of

about time somebody did some-

thing like this," said Agent

Donna Staffer

Charlotte Information Father Frank O'Rourke Vocations Director

see the service hosted by a different denomination each year.

Contributing to

Koros Stramella

OMRS

this story

P.O. Box 130 Clemmons, NC 27012 (910) 766-1882

was Donna

in Baltimore.

Mild water canoeing and

scenic

and

river.

Ideal for

families. Call

groups

or write for

first interfaith

he could. He had been on the police force for almost 29 years and was preparing Pat Faherty,

SERVICE OF

and gentlemen of law enforcement, for not being apathetic, for being involved," Msgr. Kenney said.

"Thank you for being our heroes."

During the hour-long service, Chief William Harrison, president of the Maryland Chiefs of Police, and Sheriff James Aluisi, president of the Maryland Sheriffs' Association, placed two books listing the names of fallen officers on the altar. A color guard procession included law enforcement representatives from ladies

tubing on N.C's premier

site in

Air."

each day for

Catholic college, said she would like to

timore City Police Commissioner Tho-

little

"Thank you,

at risk

exemplified by his supreme

longed since 1988, but also served as a harsh reminder that the tragic fallout of

a

put themselves peace and justice.

Frazier noted that "his dedication

remains with us."

Calling the slain officer a hero, Bal-

at the

his appreciation for those

of the Baltimore City Police Department.

"It's especially meaningful to us today because of Lt. Sweeney."

Staffer, a Lutheran who attended a

and prayer that

community where he had be-

PUT YOUR GIFTS

the peace pra\er of St. Francis of Assisi

brochure.

ment.

ings from the Bible, Hebrew Scriptures and the Koran.

Msgr. Jeremiah F. Kenney, judicial vicar and vice chancellor for the arch-

diocese

who

organized the service, read

PO Box 433 NC 28640

Jefferson,

800-982-9190

May

The Catholic News

23, 1997

Auction BMHS WINSTON-SA-

$50,000

Third-Grader

LEM — A recent auction hosted

McGuinness School's

Association

By JOE BOLLIG SPRINGS, Kan. (CNS)

School raised

BONNER

— Last summer when an

$50,000 for the benefit of the school.

More than 300

alumni

ents, faculty,

Members of the Bishop McGuinness High School junior class offered to prepare and serve two dinner parties as auction items at the "Puttin' on the Glitz" fund raiser in late

and friends, attended the event in the

BMHS

gymnasium. Fine dining and live music also highlighted the fund "Puttin' on the Glitz."

Megan O'Malley.

April.

raiser,

dubbed

auction, such as baby-sitting services.

items were collected

for the auction, including fine furniture, Fri.:

pm

—

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More than 300

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—

Students attending the proceedings

NINE CHOIRS CATHOLIC BOOKS & GIFTS Mon. Wei. 1 am 5

arsonist set fire

Sacred Heart Church in Bonner Springs, destroying the elementary school's basement library, the last thing on anyone's mind was seeing a student win a national reading award.

Then along comes 9-year-old to

guests, including par-

A

Top Reader

High

Home

to

13

Megan O'Malley

Nation's

Is

by Bishop

& Herald

vacation packages, Carolina Panthers tickets, a special pass to see the inside

world of NASCAR racing, and VIP parking for a

BMHS

largest not-for-profit children's literacy

program.

She was named from 400,000 children nationwide who took part in the annual reading program and earned an April 22-25 trip to Washington, which included a visit to the White House to

meet

student.

"The support we received from both the parent community and the community at large was phenomenal," said Col-

BMHS'

The third-grader from Sacred Heart School was named 1997's national reader by Reading Is Fundamental.

Called RTF, it is the nation's oldest and

first

As

lady Hillary

Rodham

Clinton.

for her school's library, other

Catholic schools and ies in the area

some public

librar-

have donated books

to

opment. "The event was a great success, and plans are already underway for next

Sacred Heart, bringing its new collection to 6,000 volumes. Right now it's a library on wheels; carts filled with books

year's auction."

are rolled into the

leen Lopina,

director of devel-

gymnasium when

needed.

The road to being named the nation's top reader started for

when

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last fall

the Sacred Heart School librarian,

Clyde Lingelbach, enrolled students in the annual RIF program.

For two weeks the students had to read at least 30 minutes each day and record their accumulated times until they completed a list of reading assignments.

Megan was the first to finish, taking fiveand-a-half accumulated hours to do it.

For her promptness Lingelbach chose Megan as Sacred Heart's RIF

was named the state's Miss America Tara Holland from Overland Park, Kan., chose Megan's name at random as the reader, then she

reader. Next, former

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Megan's father, Kelly, was notified by telephone of his daughter's good fortune. Later that day he broke the news to the rest of the family at the local Dairy

Queen.

Kelly and Susie O'Malley describe daughter as a "readaholic." She has a dresser drawer full of books, and the family has shelves groaning under the weight of books in their basement. their

Mom and Dad taught Megan to read.

But sister Katy, a ninth-grader Immaculata High School

at

in

Leavenworth, got her started learning her first words.

"My

first

word was

Megan

'cat,"'

The Leaven, newspaper of the Kansas City Archdiocese. "I was in preschool, like age 3 or 4, and my sister Katy taught me my second word, 'fat.' Katy would take things out of the refrigerator and say, 'This is fat,' and spell the words to me so I could read them."

Among her first books were the usual children's fare. But now Megan has told

graduated to more sophisticated

litera-

Her two favorite books are "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott, and "Forever Angels" by Susana Weyn.

Megan's teacher, Jennifer Diel, said RIF couldn't have picked a better representative. "Megan is a wonderful reader," she said. "She is an excellent ture.

reader and perfect for this."

But reading isn't all Megan does.

She plays basketball, is a Brownie, enjoys dancing lessons, plans to take piano lessons, and spends time with the family's two horses and three dogs.

The Washington trip was an adventure, said Megan, who was accompanied by her mother, her father, sister Katy and Lingelbach. Sisters Susan and Kelli stayed home.

At the White House they were greeted briefly by Mrs. Clinton in the East

Room;

President Clinton

was not

on hand because he had just returned from surveying flood damage in the Mid-

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The White House visit was recorded Megan. "Mrs. Clinton said, 'Hi.' and she whispered because she was on TV," she recalled.

"She asked me what book I had, and I for television, according to

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The O'Malleys also visited members of the Kansas congressional delegation.

held

Travel-weary Megan fell asleep in the office of Rep. Vince Snowbarger, a Republican from Olathe.

Megan also received a $500 U.S. savings bond, a bag of books, a dictionary and a magazine subscription. Her school will receive a collection of books and $250 to purchase more books, and librarian Lingelbach was also honored for his involvement in RIF. "I'm going to enter next year and

make

a poster, too,"

Megan

told

The

Leaven.

"You want

to

go back

to see the

Clintons?" an amused Lingelbach asked.

"Sure," she said. "They already

know me."

The Catholic News

14

& Herald

May

23, 1997

Diocesan News Briefs Corpus Christi Celebration HIGH POINT Bishop William G.

—

Curlin leads a Corpus Christi celebration

Maryfield Nurs-

at 3

p.m. on June

ing

Home, 1315 Greensboro

at the

1

Rd.,

aged young adults evening in May at Church. For

details, call

Family Life Commission Forum GREENSBORO Forum III of the

—

Paul the Apostle Church Family Life

Commission presents "The More We Know," a session featuring representafrom the Medicare and Social Sefrom 7-9 p.m.

Call (910) 294-4649 for details.

tives

curity offices, June 18

Contemplative Prayer Group

— A contemplative

prayer group meets every second and fourth Wednesday from 7-8 p.m. at St. Peter Church. Gather at the rear entrance to the sanctuary.

For

details, call

David

Brown, (704) 535-3684.

Grief Support

Group

WINSTON-SALEM — The St. Leo the Great

to

Fatima under the spiritual direction of Father Edmund McCaffrey, pastor of Holy Family Church in Hilton Head, S.C., is July 21-Aug. 5. Cost from New York is $1,499, which includes airfare, meals and accommodations. For information and reservations, call Kathleen Potter in Charlotte, (704) 366-5127.

National Charismatic Conference STATESVILLE A bus has been chartered for travelers from Statesville and Charlotte who will attend the 30th anniversary commemoration of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal in Pittsburgh, Perm., on June 27-29. For reservation, accommodation and conference information, call Michael An, (800) 882-

three parishioners carefully

3004.

on the barren

—

Church grief support group

meets Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. for anyone who has experienced the death of a loved one. For information, call Joanne Parcell, (910) 924-9478.

Catholic Singles

CHARLOTTE

— Catholic Singles

of Charlotte II is a social and spiritual group (not a dating service or support group) for singles aged 30-50. Events are held on a weekly basis and are open to newcomers. Call Kathy Baldo, (704) 552-2401, for information.

Adult Study Group

CHARLOTTE

— An

adult study

group meets the second and fourth Thursdays of each month to discuss The Catechism of the Catholic Church and sacred Scripture at 7:30 p.m. at St. Vincent de Paul Church in the Faith Formation Building. For details, call Mary Dore, (704) 393-7563 (home), or (704) 365-5490 (work).

Engaged Encounter

HICKORY

—

Uniquely Nourishing Growthful Experiences) will take place in Cincinnati,

1720

SPLUNGE

in

Cincinnati

(Special People Living

Ohio, July 13-19. The inner-city service experience provides youth ages 15 and up with the opportunity to serve the poor, hungry and those with special needs.

Participants will broaden their under-

through experiences while discussing, exploring and living the Gospel challenge. Previous

call Tom or Emilie Sandin, (910) 2744424. For information, call Steve or Peggy Geiger, (910) 845-5081.

participants

life

25 applicants (five from any one parish). Early registration fee, due by June 5, is $150 per person. From June 6-June 30, the cost is $160. A $75 non-refundable deposit is due by June 30.

For registration and information, call the Diocese of Charlotte's Office for Youth Ministry, (704) 523-2118.

Cancer Survivors Day

CHARLOTTE — Presbyterian Cancer Center on Caswell

Road between 4th

and 5th Streets hosts a Cancer Survivors Day Celebration June 1 from 4-7 p.m. on the center grounds. Anyone dealing with a diagnosis of cancer, their families,

friends

—

may not attend. Space is lim-

ited to the first

and healthcare providers, are

invited to attend the carnival-atmosphere

event.

Young Adults Bible Study ASHEVILLE A study of the Gos-

—

KATHY SCHMUGGE Correspondent

NEWTON — Following the

10 a.m. Mass at St. Joseph Church on May 11, unpacked a 50-foot handmade rosary and placed it

behind the church. In a steady stream, approximately 150 and adults converged upon the field. Coming from different directions, they were drawn together by a common goal: To give honor to the Blessed Virgin on Mother's Day through a "living rosary."

Guided by their faith formation teachers, the youngest participants took their place, standing near the bead they were to become and silently rehearsing their assigned prayer. The few open beads were quickly filled by teens and adults field

until the rosary

Development Director Elected to NCSC Board

WASHINGTON — Jim Kelley, di-

rector of development for the Diocese

of Charlotte, was recently elected to the vice presidency of the National Catholic Stewardship Council board of directors.

The NCSC, founded in 1962, is a professional association fostering an environment in which stewardship is understood, accepted and practiced throughout the Church. Kelley is one of four

newly elected

officers

who will

serve the

council during a three-year term.

alongside their family."

The event was a memorable experience for eighth-grader Chris Gilfillan who, as a member of the youth group, helped put the large rosary together with its designer, Ray Feltz, a youth minister. "The living rosary was special to me because it involved people of all ages, not just the young or the old," said Gilfillan, who also illustrated the glorious mysteries on signs held up during the rosary.

Youth minister Peg Manus hoped the experience would lead to continued participation in church life. "When you get the youth involved early, giving them a sense of belonging to the faith community, they will probably feel more comfortable to serve again (in ministry)," she said.

This day in May brought a diversity of age and ethnic groups together is like a large family united in prayer giving thanks to the Blessed Mother, who leads the faithful to her son.

of Bingen,

"Viriditas:

believed that Christ is

$200.

"In the Breaking of the Bread" is a June 14-20 retreat directed by Blessed Sacrament Father Eugene LaVerdiere focusing on the origins and development of the Eucharist as explained by Luke.

Cost

Greening Power" is a June 9-13 nature retreat directed by Sister Jo Anne Murphy, OSF, and Sister Jane Schmenk, OSF, focusing through a hands-on experience of the mountains on Hildegard

who

brings vitality to those in need. Cost

is

$250.

"Be

Living Waters Retreats

MAGGIE VALLEY —

was complete.

At 12 noon, the rosary was transformed from pieces of wood held together by string into a living, breathing and loving prayer. The significance of the starting time brought back memories for some adults who recalled praying the midday Angelus prayer as children.

Sixth-grader Mark Mette read the mysteries and their scriptural references as a reward for his perfect attendance in faith formation. Meanwhile, the young children, in their soft and sometimes barely audible voices, prayed Hail Marys.

Their parents and grandparents stood close by, listening and praying with them.

Meg Barrett, faith formation teacher and coordinator of the event, got the idea of a living rosary from an issue of Columbia magazine. "I did not want the rosary to be something that is taught in first or second grade and forgotten," she said. "I wanted to bring it to life, where the children could touch it and be part of it

Marriage Encounter Weekend The next Marriage HICKORY Encounter Weekend is Sept. 19-21 at the Catholic Conference Center. To register,

standing of inner-city

By

children, teen-agers

The next Engaged Encounter is Sept. 5-7 at the Catholic Conference Center. Cost is $150 per couple. For reservations and more information, call Mario Wallace, (704) 331-

SPLUNGE

Community Together

(704) 255-0149.

Fatima Pilgrimage The 12th Annual Pilgrimage

CHARLOTTE

Living Rosary Brings Church

every Sunday St. Joan of Arc

is

High

Point.

St.

pel of Mark for high school and college-

is

Still

and

Know

that

I

tive Prayer" is a July

1

-7 retreat directed

by Father Sidney Griffith, ST, focusing on the psalms as the prayer of ancient Israel, the prayer of Jesus and the prayer of the Church. Cost

is

$250.

Living Waters Reflection Center, 1420 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley, N.C. 28751. For information, call (704) 926-3833.

To

register, contact

am God"

a June 23-29 nature retreat directed by

Father Dan Havron, OFM, and sister Fran Grady, SCL, focusing on hearing the voice of God in a peaceful setting.

Cost is $250.

"The Psalms: School of Contempla-

The Catholic News & Herald welcomes parish news for the diocesan news briefs. Good photographs, preferably black and white, are also welcome. Submit news releases and photos at least 10 days before the publication date.

,

May

The Catholic News

23, 1997

World And National News Bishops'

Spokeswoman

Praises

—

(CNS)

floor, voters

The

Dignity Act in November. Lawmakers

admitted that their decisions will have worldwide impact. "I'm afraid today's death with dignity could become tomorrow's duty to die," said Rep. Bryan Johnston, D-Salem, just before the House approved the legislation 32-26 in a some-

May

lized society," said the U.S. bishops' prolife spokeswoman. The vote to ban the procedure except to save the life of the

mother was 64-36, not enough

times tearful session.

to over-

Former College President Works For Land-Mine Ban

ride President Clinton's expected veto if

100 senators vote. In that event, 67 votes would be needed for an override.

The bishops' spokeswoman, Helen Alvare, said while the vote reflects America's opposition to abortion, "we are dismayed at the number of senators who continue to support partial-birth abortion, relying on claims decisively rejected by the medical community." all

WASHINGTON (CNS) — After 17

years as a college president in Vermont,

Mercy

Sister Janice E.

Ryan has moved

Washington to campaign for a global ban on anti-personnel land mines. She recently joined the U.S. Catholic Conto

ference as a full-time volunteer to help mobilize Catholic support in the United

Americans need to be made aware, she said, "of the humanitarian crisis that is being caused by 1 10 million land mines in the ground around the world, waiting to explode." Those mines kill or maim some 25,000 people

Prisoner Begs For Mercy. A man being held at a military camp near Kinshasa Congo, formerly Zaire, begs for his life. Soldiers loyal to ousted President Mobutu Sese Seko were being rounded up in the capital city in one of the latest violent episodes in Africa's Great Lakes region.

States for a ban.

Oregon Legislature To Approve

New Vote On

Assisted Suicide The Oregon

SALEM, Ore. (CNS)

—

Senate appeared likely to approve a to

bill

send the state's assisted-suicide law

back to voters for a new look. Under House Bill 2954, OK'd May 1 3 in a close

Then

I

Forms To Back Child Health

WASHINGTON

Bill

(CNS)

—A

Much

to

I

became

campus

leader!"

my

a

ference and Catholic Charities

-Mini >y Marshai *95 i

"ad limina"

biparis

USA

are

vices to children, both were missing from

sioned."

released

list

May

13 of 150 organi-

making up the Campaign for Health Now, in support of the Hatch-Kennedy Child Health Insurance and Lower Deficit Act.

CHILD

South African Bishops Tell Pope Of Post-Apartheid Changes VATICAN CITY (CNS) Bishops

—

Raleigh,

from South Africa updated Vatican officials on changes, not all for the better, in their country since the end of apartheid.

NC

Third Grade Teacher

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Nashville Elementary School

of school, Mindy

Nashville,

teaching and

NC

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Marshall's third

lastis

a

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Mindy this at

Belmont

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sented them with

now she's on

of learn-

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she explains.

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Nuns Who Run

Hospital

Beaten By Zairian Soldiers MILAN, Italy (CNS) In the con-

—

fusion surrounding the takeover of Zaire's capital, two Italian nuns who run a maternity hospital were beaten and threatened by government soldiers. But Sister Fausta Beretta said she, two other Italian

nuns and close to 200 women and their newborns were saved

patients

by a woman in the last stages of labor.

"A young woman began to scream. She was having labor pains and the baby was about to enter the world. -The soldiers

were frightened and ran away," said Sismember of the Adorers of

the Blessed Sacrament.

and

to her students gift

Italian

ter Beretta, a

discovered

the

ing',"

Realty

environment...

surprise:

'gift

Stikeleather

supportive

graders received a

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portunities they find,

zations

O. Sanderson High School,

Vatican diplomatic affairs, missionary work and issues involving justice and peace. "The concern I keep raising with everyone is about our young people," Archbishop Napier said in an interview.

"With the end of apartheid, after a period of hope and expectation, young blacks are not finding the jobs and op-

vocal advocates of providing such serthe

Jesse

mid-May, the 27 bishops were on their visits, which are made every five years by bishops worldwide.

They report on conditions in their dioceses to the pope and to members of the Roman Curia. Archbishop Wilfrid F. Napier of Durban and Archbishop Lawrence P. Henry of Cape Town saw Pope John Paul II alone during their first days in Rome, then went on to speak separately with officials in charge of In

being backed by a coalition that represents tens of millions of people, though it does not include the most prominent Catholic agencies that have been lobbying for such legislation. Co-sponsored by Sens. Edward Kennedy, D-Mass., and Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, the bill would provide basic health care coverage for the estimated 10 million children who are ineligible for Medicaid but whose families cannot afford private insurance. It would finance the program with a tax of 43 cents per pack of cigarettes, one- third of which would go toward deficit reduction. Although the U.S. Catholic Con-

out as a

...

surprise,

Coalition

tisan children's health insurance bill

homesick freshman. began to get involved

in activities

airport in

a year, she said.

"I started

quiet,

Briefs

would

20 approval of a ban on partial-birth abortions "reflects our nation's moral consensus that this barbaric procedure has no place in a civiSenate's

15

again consider the Oregon Death with

Partial-Birth Abortion Vote

WASHINGTON

on the House

tally

& Herald

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6

The Catholic News

& Herald

May

c5/.

JKary G/wrc/i churches, was founding pastor.

Catholic school.

number exceeded 100.

With the establishment of the school came the founding of a

The present church, with the Blessed Mother as its patron, was constructed in 1936 and was dedicated in November of

a

new

that year.

tion; within several

days follow-

ing, the

St.

Mary Church

Catholic mission in Greens-

boro.

812 Duke St. Greensboro, N.C. 27401 (910) 272-8650 Vicariate:

Greensboro

The church family was soon

Vincentian Father Robert J. Prior

In

August 1939, the

first priests

of

thereafter given parish status.

the Congregation of the Mission to min-

Largely comprising AfricanAmerican parishioners, the congregation celebrated its first Mass in Sept. 1928 in the same edifice that housed the school. Josephite

ister at St. Mary Church arrived, thereby beginning a pastorate that continues today. The order of priests, also known as

Father Charles Hannigan, a missionary priest known for building

Pastor:

23, 1997

Vincentians,

was founded

in

1948, Bishop Vincent Waters granted a request that the parish be called Our

Lady of the Miraculous Medal. The church was officially known as such until 1972, when again the parish was placed under the patronage of St. Mary.

France in

Vincent de Paul, who also co-established the order of sisters that arrived in Greensboro in 1928 to staff a

1625 by

With the dawn of the 1950s came name change for St. Mary parish. In

St.

The

St.

Mary community played

a role in the building up of the church in

western North Carolina during the

'50s and beyond. In 1951, the priests

of the Greensboro parish began ministering to the mission congregation of Reidsville. Their pastorate lasted in

Parochial Vicar: Vincentian Father

Reidsville until 1968, tory of

Manh Nguyen

when

the terri-

Holy Infant Church was given

parish status.

Dwindling enrollment forced the

Priest in Residence:

its grammar school in The buildings, however, have remained a part of the parish landscape,

parish to close

Vincentian Vincent H. Finnerty

1972.

Permanent Deacon: Rev. Mr. Vincent Shaw

serving as a parish center and host to a variety of ministerial and social activi-

including those of the

ties,

Masses: Sat.: 5:30 p.m.; Sun.: 8, 10 a.m.; 12:15 p.m.; Vietnamese Mass: 2:30 p.m.; Spanish Mass: 7 p.m.

de Paul Society, the istry

St.

Vincent

SHARE food min-

program, Montagnard refugee

outreach, faith formation and Knights

Number

of Parishioners:

Number

of

Households: 370

GREENSBORO Mary was

of Columbus.

Multiethnicity highlights parish life as well, with an influx of Montagnards, Vietnamese and Spanish Catholics having been welcomed into this Greensboro congregation. The weekend Mass schedule includes liturgies in English, Spanish and Vietnamese.

The Vincentian tradition continues at St. Mary parish, through the pastoral ministry of Father Robert Prior, pastor since Sept. 1996; Father Mahn

800

— The parish of

St.

established to support increasing

numbers of Greensboro area Catholics during the late 1920s. Today, the 800-family parish

joins four other Greensboro churches to

com-

pose one of the highest concentrations of Catholics in the Charlotte Diocese.

At the invitation of Bishop William Hafey of Raleigh, sisters of the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul order arrived in Greensboro from Baltimore, Md., to staff a school in 1928. The school opened its doors to a dozen children on its first day of opera-

Nguyen, parochial vicar and celebrant of the parish's Vietnamese Mass; and Father Vincent Finnerty, priest in resi-

dence and diocesan director of Hispanic ministry. About 800 parishioners

compose

the

St.

Mary

family of faith.

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