July 3, 2022, ET Catholic, B section

Adults from around diocese confirmed at cathedral About 30 men and women receive the sacrament for the first time as Bishop Stika presides

GABRIELLE NOLAN

O

n June 5, the feast of Pentecost Sunday, close to 30 adults from around the Diocese of Knoxville were confirmed in an afternoon Mass celebrated by Bishop Richard F. Stika at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.

“Welcome to the cathedral, especially on this most blessed day, this most holy day that we celebrate the great feast of Pentecost itself, the beginnings of the Church,” Bishop Stika said. “I’m privileged and honored to be with all of you, to be confirmed this day with the gifts of the Holy Spirit.”

The bishop began his homily by asking the confirmandi to stand before the congregation.

“People from your parish, or pastors, have given their recommendation that you’re ready to receive this special sacrament,” he said. “And so, in the name of the family and friends that gather with you, and in the name of the whole Diocese of Knoxville and the Church Universal, I just offer to you my gratitude for coming to this moment in your faith life.”

“Don’t you think, folks, we should say thanks?” the bishop asked, causing a round of applause from the congregation.

The bishop focused on an important number in his homily: 1,989.

“Now, if you say 1989, it doesn’t seem a long time ago, even though some of you might be just little kids in 1989? I was only a priest four years,” the bishop said. “But if I say 1,989, it seems a little bit longer, doesn’t it? You see, 1,989 years ago Jesus died, was raised from the dead by his Father.”

“And for God, who had no beginning, who has no end, it’s a blip in the history of the world . . . 1,989,” he continued. “Today, the Church throughout the world, from Pope

By Gabrielle Nolan

‘Coming to this moment in your faith life’ A young woman is sealed with the chrism oil by Bishop Stika as her sponsor stands behind her at the adult confirmation Mass. Also pictured are Deacons Erasmo Hernandez (left) and Patrick Murphy-Racey.

Francis in Rome to maybe a military chaplain at some place scattered in the world celebrating the Eucharist on the hood of a Jeep, to somebody in Siberia . . . throughout the world, in every nook and cranny of the world, priests and bishops and cardinals and a pope have celebrated this day, of what happened 1,989 years ago on this day.”

Bishop Stika mentioned the importance of the Apostles and early disciples of Jesus and how their witness grew the Church.

“The Apostles, the first followers of Jesus, they were in a room probably scared beyond belief,” he said.

“They attached themselves to this carpenter’s son, to this rabbi, to this

healer. They attached themselves, and they followed him, they listened to him, and they witnessed all the miracles of Jesus.”

“So, they were in the room, 1,989 years ago, maybe today around 50 days after the resurrection,” the bishop continued. “And then something powerful happened, as well as something very simple. It says in the Scriptures, wind came into that room. Tradition tells us it was probably that same room that they gathered together for the Passover, the Last Supper.”

“Tongues of fire appeared over their heads, and they left that room; and 1,989 years later we’re here today in this church of Sacred Heart

Cathedral, as beautiful as it is, because of what happened as the birth of the Church began,” he said.

Bishop Stika admitted that sometimes understanding the gifts of the Holy Spirit can be confusing.

“The gifts of the Holy Spirit help us get through that confusion, of that challenge of life, because God knows we are confused,” he said.

“Those gifts of the Holy Spirit remind us that Jesus knew and knows the human condition. He knows that we live lives filled with confusion and temptation and wonderment, and what it’s like to walk into the darkness of the future, not knowing where the invitation of Confirmation continued on page B2

Handmaids celebrate 75th anniversary of founding

B

ishop Richard F. Stika celebrated a special Mass on May 25 honoring the diamond jubilee for the Handmaids of the Precious Blood.

The morning Mass took place at Cor Jesu Monastery in New Market, the private residence of the cloistered contemplative community of religious Sisters.

Bishop Stika’s executive secretary, Sister Maria Juan Anderson, RSM, was also present for the Mass.

The bishop and Sister Maria Juan presented the community with 75 flowers, one for each year of their community’s existence.

Bishop Stika greeted the Sisters at the beginning of Mass, acknowledging that they were “coming together on this special day, in which we kick off 75 years of grace.”

The bishop’s homily, which tied into the Gospel reading from John 15, focused on the theme of vines and branches.

“The one thing about vines is they grow; they move along,” he said. “And I was thinking, since the foundation of your community, recognized by the Holy Father himself, even though the community’s been smaller, it has grown.”

Bishop Stika stated that the community has endured “all kinds of soil,” with various locations previously in Italy, England, New Mexi-

co, Illinois, Vermont, South Dakota, Washington, and Missouri.

“Here, it seems like you fulfill the mission of the founder: to pray for priests, to pray for the world, to give yourself totally to the Lord,” the bishop said. “And since I have such a unique connection to your community, both living and dead, I feel so privileged and blessed, as do I think the Church throughout the world, especially priests.”

“You might not know their names.

Their names might appear on your blackboard,” the bishop continued, noting the blackboard in the monastery that lists the intentions for priests among different dioceses.

“The vine just continues to grow, and it grows out away from the core, from its roots,” he said. “I think that [by] the mission of your community, people might never see the root, where the vine starts, but they’ll see the effects. They’ll feel the effects. Because grace is one of those mysterious things that you really can’t get your hands around . . . The graces of the wonderful experience of the Spirit of the Father’s love of Jesus’ gift that allows everything to work out.”

Bishop Stika mentioned the community’s fluctuation in numbers over the years.

“There’s growth here, and just like anything in life, there’s ebbs

By Gabrielle Nolan

GABRIELLE NOLAN

The cloistered order that prays for priests makes its home in a monastery in the town of New Market

‘A grand celebration it is, 75 years’ The Handmaids of the Precious Blood pose for a picture with Bishop Stika at the celebration of their 75th jubilee. and flows and moments, challenges, and yet life continues here,” he said. “That’s why your community is like that vine that reaches out in growth and the leaves that absorb the sun, absorb the grace to allow it to continue to grow and to touch the lives of people who will never see you, never speak with you, and yet are very, very much connected with you.”

The bishop also touched on the specific ministry of the community: to pray for priests.

“Your work continues because

there are still broken priests and lost priests and strong priests, priests edifying because of your prayer,” he said. “So what a grand celebration it is, 75 years. And the work will continue. You know, there’s ad multos annos, many more years. I have no doubt about that at all.”

Bishop Stika noted that Cardinal Justin Rigali wrote a letter to the community for their jubilee. “[The cardinal] extends to you his blessing, his love, his care. He’s been here before, and he’ll be here Handmaids continued on page B3

Jesus might lead. And that’s why Jesus promised the Apostles he would send the Paraclete.”

The bishop reminded the confirmandi that the Holy Spirit is always present to them.

“When you were baptized, you received the Holy Spirit,” he said.

“Anytime we go to Mass or celebrate sacraments, the Holy Spirit is present because where God is, there are the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. So, the gift that is given to you today completes something that began at your baptism, when someone simply poured water over your head and said, ‘I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.’”

“And another time in your life in faith, when someone presented you to the Eucharist, the great sacrament of the Church, the greatest sacrament. When Jesus said, ‘This is my body, this is my blood, given for you,’ you made a statement of faith at the same time,” the bishop continued.

“You said, ‘Amen,’ a Greek word that means ‘I believe.’ A statement of faith, and today that which are called the sacraments of initiation— baptism, Eucharist, confirmation—is complete,” he said. “But your life goes on because every moment of every day God will invite you, you and me, to live our faith—not to say we are Christians or we are believers or we are Catholic, but to actually witness to others. You know that old thing: practice what you preach.”

Bishop Stika concluded his homily with some advice for the confirmandi for when they returned to their homes after Mass.

“I pray that you always involve the Holy Spirit in all decisions,” he said. “And if you do that, I can guarantee this: if God is a part of your decisions, you might not be the richest. You’re still going to have challenges and problems and difficulties, but you will gain a gift that we call heaven.”

The rite of confirmation followed the homily.

Bishop Stika led the confirmandi in the renewal of their baptismal promises, asking the following questions: n Do you reject Satan and all his works and all his empty promises? n Do you believe in God, the Father, the almighty, the creator of heaven and of earth? n Do you believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, Our Lord, who was born of the Virgin Mary, was crucified, died, and was buried, who rose from the dead, and is now seated at the right hand of the Father? n Do you believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who came upon the Apostles at Pentecost and

today in this cathedral is given to you sacramentally in confirmation? n Do you believe in the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting?

Asking God the Father to pour out the Holy Spirit, Bishop Stika chanted over the confirmandi and the congregation with his hands raised.

He prayed for the gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, understanding, counsel, knowledge, fortitude, piety, and fear of the Lord.

Afterwards, each of the confirmandi processed forward, with his or her sponsor behind, to the bishop for the laying on of hands and the anointing with chrism oil.

At the end of Mass, Bishop Stika jokingly asked, “So did anyone see any things of fire above your heads?”

“I think for Christians, it’s more in the heart,” he said. “Don’t forget, God needs you to help build His kingdom to bring peace and to teach your children and your brothers and sisters and your neighbors that God loves them and to share that faith with others. That’s the work of an apostle; that’s the work of a disciple, of one who believes in Jesus.”

The bishop blessed items and took pictures with the confirmandi after the Mass ended.

Gilbert Hernandez, a parishioner from St. Alphonsus in Crossville, said the Mass “was beautiful.”

After marrying a Catholic and converting to the faith many years ago, Mr. Hernandez said, “Now it was the time for the confirmation.”

Mr. Hernandez chose St. Paul as his confirmation patron, someone he said he can relate to.

“He was lost, [and] then he was found,” Mr. Hernandez said. “He was persecuting the Christians and then obviously, when he was in that persecution, the Lord called him and he was blinded. Then after that he became a believer, and he worked very hard going to all different countries and continents preaching the word of the Lord, especially to the Gentiles. So that’s why I picked him. I kind of relate to him a little bit.”

For Maria Atencio, a parishioner from Holy Ghost in Knoxville, she couldn’t pick between two of her favorite saints.

“My two saints are St. Thérèse of Lisieux and Mary Magdalene,” she said. “They both have been there for me since my conversion or . . . reconversion. They both have helped me out a lot since then.”

“I couldn’t pick between them,” Ms. Atencio said while laughing.

“They’re both very great saints who love much and just receive God in such a beautiful way.”

Ms. Atencio noted she has “been

GABRIELLE NOLAN (5)

Confirmation continued from page B1

‘Peace be with you’ Bishop Stika extends peace to a newly confirmed young man. waiting for this (sacrament) for a while.”

“I come from Venezuela, and I wasn’t able to do it with my school in my country,” she explained. “So it’s beautiful to come back to my Church and to finally be able to receive the Holy Spirit in this special way.”

Rocco Iacovelli, a parishioner from St. Thérèse of Lisieux in Cleveland, thought the Mass was “wonderful,” and he was “very moved.”

“It was really an honor,” Mr. Iacovelli said, noting the apostolic succession of the bishop. “It was an honor to have a descendant of the Apostles give me a sacrament.”

Mr. Iacovelli chose St. Anthony of Padua as his patron, partly because Anthony is his middle name

but also because he enjoys learning about mystics.

“I’m into the mystical saints,” he said. “But probably [Anthony’s] evangelism and his work with St. Francis of Assisi and his miracles just impressed me. Now I’m going to get to know him better.”

Every year, Bishop Stika confirms adults from around the diocese at a special Mass at the cathedral. Adults 18 and older who have not received the sacrament of confirmation, but have received the sacraments of baptism, first Holy Communion, and reconciliation, can receive the sacrament at this Mass.

For more information, those interested should contact their parish office. n

‘God will invite you . . . to live our faith’ A confirmation candidate and her sponsor pray during the liturgy on June 5.

Presenting the gifts Bishop Stika receives the gifts of bread and wine from a family at the confirmation Mass.

‘Today that which are called the sacraments of initiation . . . is complete’ Bishop Stika preaches the homily at the adult confirmation Mass.

Glory to God Cantor Michelle Pokelwaldt leads the congregation in prayer and song during the adult confirmation Mass.

B2 n JULY 3, 2022

w ww.di o k no x .o rg

TH E EA S T TEN N ES S EE C ATH OLI C

again, especially during this whole year of celebration,” the bishop said.

Following the Mass, the Sisters hosted Bishop Stika for lunch and fellowship inside their home.

A display featuring artifacts from throughout their community’s history, such as photographs and old habits, lined tables in the living room.

‘We’ve managed to survive’ The community was originally founded in 1947 in the Archdiocese of Santa Fe in New Mexico. Father Gerald Fitzgerald, the founder, desired a community of women to pray before the Blessed Sacrament in adoration for the souls of priests.

Their motto, Pro Christo In Sacerdote Suo, translates to “For Christ in His Priest.”

After the community was founded, “we were just getting our feet wet when the Second Vatican Council took place in the early ’60s and that time of upheaval in society, as well as in the Church,” said Mother Sarah Michael, the community’s mother prioress.

“We’ve retained not just the appearances of religious, but just the core principles of what it is to live a vowed life in fidelity to the Church, and good morals, and we’ve been blessed in that way,” she continued.

“The 75th anniversary of our foundation is remarkable on several levels,” Mother Sarah Michael said. “I say that the first level is the fact that we’ve managed to survive through many vicissitudes.”

In 2010, the Handmaids began to discern relocating their motherhouse from the mountains of New Mexico due to challenges making it difficult to sustain a contemplative lifestyle.

“There’s one road going in, and when we first went there, it was a dead-end street,” Mother Sarah Michael explained. “It became a

national scenic route, and it went all the way through to other cities, other places.”

“And so we had a tremendous amount of traffic, a tremendous amount of intrusion because we had a bit of an oasis where we lived,” she continued. “People would think it was a park, so they’d be coming onto our grounds even though we had things posted, you know, private property.”

In addition, there were cultural influences entering that made the area more dangerous.

“We had been advised by somebody, a churchman, that we should probably look elsewhere, and we hadn’t considered that,” Mother Sarah Michael said. “We were just suffering with it because that’s where we were founded; you don’t leave your home if you don’t have to.”

The Sisters held a communitywide chapter to meet on the issue, and the community received permission from Rome to look for a new location to live.

“We put the invitation out to several bishops, the ordinaries of dioceses, and by word of mouth,” Mother Sarah Michael said. “We had gotten invitations from several, and we might have gone on to personally visit some, but we ended up being wooed by Bishop Stika, and this is where we came.”

The Handmaids arrived in East Tennessee in May 2013, originally living on the grounds of the Christ Prince of Peace Retreat Center in Benton. In July 2015, the community moved to its current location in New Market.

GABRIELLE NOLAN (6)

Handmaids continued from page B1

In adoration Bishop Stika leads Benediction before the Blessed Sacrament with the Handmaids of the Precious Blood on May 25 for their 75th anniversary.

‘The 75th anniversary of our foundation is remarkable’ The Handmaids of the Precious Blood sing during their anniversary Mass.

of Knoxville,” according to their website.

Their 55-acre property includes peaceful views of farmland and mountains and is partially bordered by the Holston River.

“We’re in an ideal spot, that we have the physical beauty and enough property that we have a natural seclusion,” Mother Sarah Michael said. “We have a lot of space that’s ours. There’s the natural beauty. There’s the quiet.”

The community also has accessibility to medical or commercial needs, being located less than 30 miles from downtown Knoxville.

For practical needs, such as buying groceries, the Sisters go out when needed and also receive help from volunteers.

“We go out, usually once a week to get perishable things like milk, and some of the produce things,” Mother Sarah Michael explained.

“We have people that will buy things in large amounts and send them through Amazon, (such as) nonperishables. And we have several benefactors in Knoxville or elsewhere nearby that will go to Sam’s Club or Costco and go and get us things there.”

A group of helpers, called the Handmaid Advisory Team, consists of professionals from various backgrounds: engineering, project management, law, real estate, and finance.

“They have been able to help us when we make big decisions to steer us in the right direction,” Mother Sarah Michael said.

Spiritually, the Sisters remain nourished in the sacraments from a priest who volunteers to visit the community.

Father Andres Cano, a priest in residence at Holy Trinity Church in Jefferson City, visits the monastery every day to celebrate Mass.

‘Your work continues’ Bishop Stika celebrates the anniversary Mass for the Handmaids’ 75th jubilee in their residential chapel in New Market.

‘This is where we came’ Mother Sarah Michael, the mother prioress of the Handmaids of the Precious Blood community, participates in the 75th-anniversary Mass.

Meal after Mass Bishop Stika, accompanied by Sister Maria Juan Anderson, RSM, joins the Handmaids for lunch and fellowship following the Mass.

Memorabilia items A display table in the Handmaids’ living room featured artifacts from the community’s founder and earliest Sisters.

TH E EAST T E N N E S S E E C AT HO L I C

‘A great blessing to be in East Tennessee’ The move to East Tennessee made the Handmaids the “first women’s cloistered monastery and community motherhouse to be in the Diocese

w ww.di o k no x .o rg

“He’s a very, very generous priest,” Mother Sarah Michael said.

“He hears our confessions every two weeks, so then we don’t have to go out; he comes in.”

The community, which currently consists of 13 professed Sisters, is seeing the potential for growth with three women in formation at the motherhouse.

Twenty-eight-year-old novice Sister Maria Crucis of St. Joseph has been discerning with the Handmaids for just over a year.

“I started discerning a contemplative vocation about a year and a half after I left formation with the Little Sisters of the Poor, and they’re an active community,” she said. “I really felt that the Lord was calling me to offer my life to pray for priests, and in particular to pray for priests in front of our Blessed Sacrament.”

Sister Maria Crucis found the Handmaids through their website and was recommended to visit them after visiting with a cloistered Dominican community in Alabama.

“It’s been so beautiful to have the Lord guide me on this journey,” she said. “It’s such a beautiful community of simple, humble women who just give their lives for the Lord every day. The joyful community life is beautiful.”

Originally from south Louisiana, Sister Maria Crucis moved around growing up. She lived in Knoxville for one year before entering the Handmaids community and was previously a member of Holy Ghost Parish.

“My parents, they live in Knoxville now, and so they’re very close,” she added. “It’s just a great blessing to be in East Tennessee.”

For more information on the Handmaids of the Precious Blood, visit nunsforpriests.org. n

JULY 3, 2022 n B3

Parish notes

The St. Jude Trivia Night is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Friday, July 29, in Siener Hall for adults 21 and older. Teams of up to eight can compete for top-three prizes of $400, $250, and $100. Participants may bring their own food and drinks. Cost is $50 per table. Registration is due by Monday, July 25. Call Kyra at 423-870-2386 to learn more, to make a suggestion, or to help.

Gale Bolton of Bethel Bible Village in Hixson thanked St. Jude parishioners for their recent donation of food and paper goods.

St. Mary, Athens Vacation Bible school, themed “Sonrise National Park,” starts July 11 and ends July 14.

The Knights of Columbus’ yard sale Aug. 19-20 will benefit the lighting fund.

Heather Tremblay collected socks for military men and women as a community-service project.

St. Stephen, Chattanooga Knights of Columbus Council 6099 held a Pro-Life Barbecue on June 25, with proceeds going toward local pro-life causes such as the Catholic Charities layette program. The meal included pulled pork loin barbecue with fries, coleslaw, and baked beans.

The St. Stephen Healing Hearts Ministry, a support group for the widowed of the parish, met June 15. Those with questions about the group should contact Liz Huntenburg at 954-464-7372.

Anniversaries: Warren and Juanita White (69), John and Lillian Yarosh (67), Jerry and Nancy Kane (61), Joe and Anita D’Andrea (59), Whitten and Brenda Davis (55), Joe and Cathy Burriesci (54), Tim and Susan Lorentz (45), Robert and Vicki Marthinsen (45), Christopher and Christine Bertani (25), Alan and Alexandra De Leon (20)

Cumberland Mountain Deanery Blessed Sacrament, Harriman A baby-bottle collection in late June and early July benefited Life Choices Resource Center in Harriman.

St. Francis of Assisi, Fairfield Glade The Council of Catholic Women held its annual summer bake sale July 1 at the Village Green Mall. On Aug. 10, a Newcomers Tea is planned.

Father Glenn Meaux visited recently and gave news of his parish family in Haiti’s Kobonal Mission. He is grateful for the generosity of St. Francis of Assisi parishioners who donated in different ways: by monetary donations; Christina Seaman made quilts (see page B9); and Jim Marentette made wooden crosses, and all proceeds from their work were donated to the mission. The parish thanks all who transported Father Meaux and hosted meals and arranged outings for him.

Christmas in July is another way the parish, with Cross Catholic Outreach, is sponsoring a Box of Joy for the children in the Kobonal Mission of Haiti. These shoebox-sized boxes will be available after masses July 23-24 and July 30-31 in the parish hall. They are $10 and $9 for shipping. The children have shirts and do not wear socks but can use toiletries: toothpaste and brushes, soap, tissues, hair brushes and ribbons, small toys, sunglasses, etc. Items must be nonperishable since these boxes are usually stored until November. They are to be returned by Aug. 7.

Father Kris Bartos of Marathon, Fla., has been coming to the Glade in summer months for 30 years with his parents and brothers for family vacations and golfing and to give St. Francis pastors a summer break. He served daily Masses and weekends and visited the sick. The parish thanks him for his service, smiles, and jokes. He is now a pastor of his own parish and B4 n JULY 3, 2022

June has been a busy month of celebrations for St. Francis pastor Father Michael Woods. First was his 56th anniversary in the priesthood on June 19.

Then came his celebration of his 80th birthday June 23 (see photos below), with special guest Cardinal Justin Rigali, who surprised him and all who attended the celebration. Approximately 325 came to share the wonderful day with their pastor. Father Woods entertained with his Irish songs. Everyone enjoyed this day with him and thanks the committee workers. The food, decorations, service, and pleasant smiles were all very appreciated.

Another parish family gathering is planned for July 29 in the Glade Center to welcome the newcomers since January 2020 and appreciate the long-term parishioners with food, music, and games. The occasion is also a chance to wish Father Woods bon voyage on his trip to Ireland and welcome Father Bernie Campbell, who will be at St. Francis. For more information, call Patty Johnson at 931-484-5587.

Anniversaries: Ken and Norma Guillory (65), David and Tish Offutt (59), Paul and Barbara Dahar (58), Ronald and Virginia Schuster (57), Luke and Andrea Hebert (54), William and Gail Boland (54), Ronald and Janeene Lemieux (54), James and Margaret Snyder (53), James and Jacqueline Bronson (53), Robert and Marion Cope (53), James and Kathleen Veen (53), David and Maralee Rivard (52), Roger and Suzette Hulgan (52), Vince and Sandy D’Alessandro (51), Dick and Sally Weller (51), Art and Linda Meyer (51), Ken and Christine Kuczka (50), Raymond and Kathleen Pilon (50), Robert and Mary Terraforte (50), Tom and Peg Finley (15) St. John Neumann, Farragut

Confirmation at St. Henry Bishop Richard F. Stika confirmed youth at St. Henry Church in Rogersville on May 22. He is pictured with St. Henry pastor Father Bart Okere (right), Deacon Bob Lange, and (front) Joselyn Nande Mendoza, (middle, from left) Jessica Nande Mendoza and Samantha Nande Mendoza, and (back, from left) Jennifer Carolyn Nande and Ashley Nande Mendoza.

TIM SHAW

St. Jude, Chattanooga

cannot be with St. Francis this summer. His address is San Pablo Catholic Church, 550 122nd Street Ocean, Marathon, FL 33050 if you would like to send him a card of congratulations.

Notre Dame Parish celebrates confirmation The sacrament of confirmation was conferred May 28 during the 5 p.m. Mass at Notre Dame Church in Greeneville by Bishop Richard F. Stika. Father Joseph Kuzhupil, MSFS, pastor of Notre Dame, concelebrated the Mass. Deacon Tim Marcy served as deacon of the Word and Deacon Wil Johnson as deacon of the Eucharist.

Eleven students received the sacrament of confirmation under the direction of Brenda Litchfield, who served as their confirmation catechist. A reception followed with cake and punch so the parish family and friends could congratulate the newly confirmed. From left to right are (seated) Justin Banegas, Yasmin Penaloza, Andrea Montes, Kimberly Puente, Evan Litchfield, Connor Hartley, Cristian Banegas, Mackenzie Castro, Marisol Lopez, Angelyn Diaz, and Amaris Ramirez, and (standing) Mrs. Litchfield, Deacon Johnson, Bishop Stika, Father Kuzhupil, Deacon Marcy, and director of religious education Susan Collins.

The parish is hosting diocesan seminarian George Vallejo of Conception Seminary College for his summer assignment.

Knoxville Catholic High School senior and St. John Neumann parishioner Paul Liulevicius placed third in the nationwide @USCCBCatholicEd 2022 Religious Liberty Essay Contest. This year’s theme was “Witnesses to Freedom.” Paul’s essay featured Nijole Sadunaite, a Lithuanian Roman Catholic nun and human-rights activist who was imprisoned in Siberia for her faith and dissident actions. In addition to a $500 scholarship, Paul received the honor of having his essay published online during Religious Freedom Week (June 22-29). Read his essay at www.usccb. org/religious-liberty-essay.

Five Rivers Deanery Holy Trinity, Jefferson City The parish congratulated Deacon Jim Prosak on the 15th anniversary of his ordination June 9.

COURTESY OF JIM WOGAN (2)

Chattanooga Deanery

The Council of Catholic Women held a bake sale on the weekend of June 18-19 as a fundraiser to purchase lawn equipment.

May’s meeting of the CCW saw the installation of the following officers for the next year: Rena Roberts, president; Anne Orzechowski, co-president; Cindy Giardiello, vice president; Barbara Lawson, secretary; and Rose Colasuonno, treasurer.

Founding parishioner Stan Szalkiewicz passed away May 28 at age 72.

Anniversaries: Chris and Michele Weatherbie (25), William and Linda Bonner (10) Notre Dame, Greeneville The St. Agnes Guild’s Project Playground reached its goal of $45,000 after a most generous donation by the Knights of Columbus, leaving its total raised at $45,079.30.

Parish notes continued on page B7

Happy 80th birthday, Father Woods Father Michael Woods, pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Fairfield Glade, celebrated his 80th birthday June 23. Father Woods was joined by Cardinal Justin Rigali, parishioners, and numerous friends at a party in his honor at the parish hall on his birthdate. Father Woods claims Carlingford, Ireland, as his original home and returns there to visit family each year.

w ww.di o k no x .o rg

TH E EA S T TEN N ES S EE C ATH OLI C

Calendar

A young-adult “Cookout With the Seminarians” is set for noon Saturday, July 23, at the Chancery office, 805 S. Northshore Drive in Knoxville. Young adults are invited to meet some of the Diocese of Knoxville seminarians. Kids are welcome. To RSVP or learn more, e-mail Deacon Joey Austin at jaustin@ dioknox.org.

All Saints Parish in Knoxville will host a Health and Mental Wellness Expo from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 19, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 20. The event will feature speakers throughout the day and other health-related information from the Knoxville community.

St. Mary’s Legacy Clinic will provide glucose, blood-pressure, and basic mental-health screening. Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts will lead health- and first-aid-related activities for children.

Outdoor aerobics and other activities are planned if weather permits. Friday evening speakers are Zack Kramer, owner of Trinity Strength, and Deacon Robert Rust. Saturday speakers are Mr. Kramer, Allison Maurer, Allison Lowe, Father Michael Maples, and Dr. Lisa Padgett. Information booths will feature All Saints caregiving ministries, a registered dietitian, a doctor of physical therapy, a chiropractor, and more. For more information, contact Christine Lucheon at 865-474-8601 or clucheon@ dioknox.org.

Singers, choir directors, organists, clergy, and others interested in sacred music are invited to the seventh Southeastern Summer Sacred Music Workshop, to be held midday Friday, July 29, through Saturday, July 30, at Holy Ghost Church in Knoxville. The workshop is an ideal opportunity for participants to learn Gregorian chant or improve their chant skills and to prepare and sing polyphonic music for Mass Saturday afternoon. Presentations will include the history and purpose of Gregorian chant, what the Church teaches about sacred music, improving parish music programs on a limited budget, free online sources of liturgical music, and more. Cost of the workshop, including all materials, is $75 per person. Online registration is available now. Southeastern Sacred Music is a chapter of the Church Music Association of America. For more information, visit https://southeasternsacredmusic. com/, e-mail mary@holyghostknoxville. org, or call or text Mary C. Weaver at 865-437-8620.

Camp Thrive, a collaborative youthministry event for leaders in the Louisville Province, is set for Aug. 25-27 at Gasper River Catholic Camp and Retreat Center in Bowling Green, Ky. Youth-ministry leaders from the two states will gather for celebration, renewal, and professional growth. Registration deadline is Aug. 19. Register at https://dioknox.org/events/camp-thrive.

Cost is $115 per youth ministry leader (includes two nights lodging and six meals) through July 31. Registration afterward is $135 per youth ministry leader. For more information, contact Brittany Garcia at bgarcia@dioknox.org or 865-776-9635.

TH E EAST T E N N E S S E E C AT HO L I C

Engaged Encounter weekends are set for July 22-23 and Oct. 22-23 at All Saints Church in Knoxville. Catholic Engaged Encounter is a weekend to plan for a sacramental marriage. It is designed to give couples the opportunity to talk privately, honestly, and intensively about their prospective lives together—their strengths and weaknesses, desires, ambitions, and goals, and their attitudes about money, sex, children, family, and their role in the Church and society—in a guided format. Cost of the weekends is $175 per couple, which includes a certificate good for a $60 discount on the couple’s marriage license in Tennessee. To receive a $60 discount, couples must attend a marriage-preparation weekend within one year of purchasing the license. To learn more or to register for a weekend, visit knoxville.engagedencounter.com or call Leslie Consoli at 865-803-6790.

COURTESY OF AMANDA BOYER

Registration for the World Youth Day diocesan pilgrimage is open. WYD is in summer 2023 in Portugal. Young adults ages 18 to 35 are invited to join the Office of Young Adult Ministry for the journey. They will be pilgrimaging with Dube Travel from July 28 to Aug. 8, 2023. The package includes roundtrip airfare, two nights in Fatima, eight nights in Lisbon, the WYD registration packages, daily breakfast, and more.

Visit dioknox.org/wyd2023 for more details on registration, itinerary, pricing, payment plans, and fundraising opportunities. For more information, contact Paola Wolaver at pwolaver@dioknox. org or Brittany Garcia at bgarcia@ dioknox.org.

“The Calling,” a Catholic youth leadership camp for rising ninth- through 12th-grade youth, is scheduled for Sept. 23-25 at Adventure Ocoee Retreat Center, 186 Hawkins Drive in Ocoee, TN. The theme is “When God calls you, He will equip you” (Exodus 4:10-15). Youths will form new friendships with other teens from around the diocese, discover more about the gifts God uniquely gave them, and grow in fundamental skills for mission and leadership. Damascus Catholic Mission is collaborating with the Diocese of Knoxville for this camp and will provide the talks and worship leader. Costs are $100 per youth participant and $75 for adult leaders. Prices include lodging, all meals, a T-shirt, and all camp activities (a zip line, a climbing wall, a freefall swing, a low ropes course, an adventure fun mud race, a bonfire, music, speakers, and more). Download a flyer at dioknox.org/documents/2022/4/ The%20Calling%20Flyer.pdf. Contact Brittany Garcia at bgarcia@dioknox.org with questions.

Youth receives first Communion at St. Elizabeth Benjamin Boyer, pictured with his parents, Amanda and Todd Boyer, received his first Holy Communion on May 8 at St. Elizabeth Church in Elizabethton. Mrs. Boyer made the banner in front of the altar.

COURTESY OF ST. JOHN NEUMANN PARISH (2)

The Diocese of Knoxville is celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Cursillo movement in East Tennessee this fall.

Bishop Richard F. Stika will celebrate an anniversary Mass at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 1, in the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. All Cursillistas are invited. Following Mass, there will be a Grand Ultreya and a fiesta in the parish hall. RSVP to Lois Schering at schering4@aol.com or 865-681-7858

by Monday, Aug. 1.

The next Picture of Love engagedcouples retreat is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, Sept. 23 and 24, at St. Stephen Church in Chattanooga. This marriage-preparation program is a supplement to the couple’s marriage formation with their parish priest or deacon. The Picture of Love marriagepreparation program for engaged couples explores the joys and challenges of living out the sacrament of matrimony with special focus on the importance of inviting Jesus to be the center of marriage and family life. The program will help the couple gain insights into their relationship, as well as give them practical ideas and tools to help smooth their journey and become the “Picture of Love” to one another.

The cost is $135 per couple, and the experience will qualify couples for a $60 discount on a Tennessee marriage license. For more information, e-mail kbyrne@dioknox.org or call Karen Byrne at 865-584-3307. To register and fill out requested exercises, visit dioknox.org/ events/picture-of-love-2022.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH) Homeschool Support Group is a Catholic homeschool support group in Knoxville and surrounding areas that is recognized by the diocese as a Private Association of the Faithful. The group supports one another as families who choose to educate their children at home in order to live, teach, and preserve their Catholic Christianity. The group celebrates Mass together and has a monthly holy hour; has regular park gatherings, field trips, and feast day celebrations; offers faith-based small groups for children, teens, and adults, as well as many other activities.

For more information, contact Lenore Pacitti at lmgouge@gmail.com or 865684-6358, or Sarah Bryant at jsbry412@ gmail.com or 865-742-3534.

Catholic Charities is hosting a free Rachel’s Vineyard healing and recovery retreat the weekend of Oct. 7-9 at Christ Prince of Peace Retreat Center, 250 Locke Lane in Benton, for those experiencing emotional or spiritual difficulties from a past abortion or abortions. Complete confidentiality is honored at all times. If you are unable to attend a weekend retreat, one-on-one counseling is available with counselors who have been trained in Calendar continued on page B7

St. John Neumann holds vacation Bible school St. John Neumann Parish in Farragut held its vacation Bible school in June with the theme “Cool Kingdom Party.” Students learned how Mary, Queen of Heaven, can lead them closer to Jesus.

Two Glade couples celebrate 50th wedding anniversaries in July n St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Fairfield Glade congratulates Robert and Mary Terraforte on the occasion of their 50th wedding anniversary July 29.

They were married at St. Mary Church in Mount Vernon, N.Y. Their children are Jennifer Green of Erin, N.Y.; Thomas Terraforte of Bethlehem, Pa.; and Michael Terraforte of Four Oaks, N.C., and they have three grandchildren.

Mr. Terraforte retired in 2018 from Service Solution in Knoxville, and Mrs. Terraforte retired in 2013 from Lehigh Valley Hospital in Allentown, Pa. They retired to the Glade in 2012. Mrs. Terraforte currently works for St. Francis of Assisi Church. They will celebrate their

w ww.di o k no x .o rg

anniversary with grandson Jackson. n Kenneth and Christine Kuczka of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Fairfield Glade celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary July 1.

They were married at St. Thomas More Church in Munster, Ind. Their children are Dr. Kendy Vierling of Fairfax Station, Va., and Alissa Barrett of Singapore, and they have one grandchild.

Mr. Kuczka is self-employed with Capex Financial, and Mrs. Kuczka retired from the Peoria Unified School District No. 11 and was international Baccalaureate coordinator for the district in Peoria, Ariz.

They spent their anniversary in their Tennessee home after being in Arizona for 36 years. n JULY 3, 2022 n B5

Praying for Perspective

by George Valadie

A stroll through family history via school records Some questions would garner a lawsuit today, but the info gathered was more complete

T

he unexpected text was from my high school alma mater. We stay in touch now and again.

Many we know have moved on but not everyone.

Turns out one of this summer’s tasks there is converting 150 years of student records into the digital format. And there’s only one way to do that—one by one by one.

In doing so, they came across quite a few belonging to Nancy’s family and even more belonging to mine.

Deceased now, three of our four parents went there before us, not to mention my grandmother and my great-grandmother.

Throw in siblings, aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, and our clan was clogging up a cabinet they likely needed for something else.

Their plan was to digitize official transcripts only so they were kind enough to ask if we might want the rest of the stuff that they found there.

With all the appropriate permissions gathered from our families, we were happy to take some folders off their hands.

And then we strolled through history beginning with Nancy’s dad, who graduated in 1936. A fire had destroyed most everything before that.

It’s funny what we found, each one surprisingly different. Health records for some but not for all.

Some standardized test scores, family information, old class schedules, teacher names we’d forgotten, and attendance records. A little of this and a little of that—the contents of each file as different as the humans they had tracked.

It only took an hour before Nancy said, “Turns out the California Achievement Test I took 52 years ago says I had a higher IQ score.”

“Well,” I countered, “If you look, I think you’ll see my SAT score was better. So there!”

Nancy and I had taken that same college admission test one time each and—good or bad—we just moved on. In fact, neither she nor I could recall any of our friends ever giving it a second try while I made our daughter take it five or six times.

Nancy dropped the hammer on our

one-upmanship duel with, “Well, I have a higher credit score.”

She got me. Fifty-two years later and that’s proven to be the only mark that matters much at all.

As likely happened at your high school, we discovered all varieties of other tests our school had given through the years. Current ones like ACT and SAT of course, but we also saw results from NEDT, Dayton, Otis, Sones-Harry, California, and Kuder, and some of us had something called Mental Maturity scores—though not particularly good ones.

Thank goodness those no longer matter either.

According to the official record of their lives, our parents apparently made it through school—and life— with hardly any such outside evaluations. Their files recorded no such information. I suppose what the Sisters taught in the classroom was all they thought they needed.

I’m not sure they were far from wrong.

But most every one of our family files did contain some sort of “registration record” listing a student’s basic demographic facts of life.

It was funny to see how even the simplicity of “name and address” has gotten more complicated through the years.

We could revisit the time when there was but one phone number per home, each looking something like MA6-4444 (Madison) or OX3-8888 (Oxford).

My mom was already in college when area codes came into existence; no one ever asked for that. And, of course, there were no questions for “father’s cell phone/mother’s cell phone/student’s cell phone.”

No e-mail addresses either.

It’s not like divorce didn’t exist, but there were no questions asking, “With which parent does the student live?” It probably seemed rude to even ask such a personal question. We wouldn’t dare not ask it now.

Being as old as we are, none of the school operations were computerized. We found lots of handwritten or office-created forms, many produced with that old blue-ink mimeograph

Thoughts and Prayers for the Faithful

fluid that many of us can still smell to this day.

Prior to admission, it’s not uncommon for contemporary schools to require grade school transcripts, psychologicals, parental releases, and letters of recommendation. Those aren’t bad things; they prove incredibly helpful in providing appropriate services for those in need.

But none of it seemed to matter back then.

You could tell our daily attendance forms had been meticulously and time-consumingly generated on a typewriter (remember those?) with a tiny square box provided for each school day. (Try making a string of those on such a device.)

And the secretary had obviously been tasked with the daily tracking— little red A’s for absence, T’s for tardies, tallied at the end of each month and year.

Nancy weighed in on that, too: “Look at this, I had good attendance my first three years. And then we started going out, and all these days I missed senior year were when I was visiting you in South Bend.”

“You’re welcome” was all I could say.

There wasn’t a lot of financial information included, but Nancy’s file happened to include the tuition and fee charges for her ’72-’73 junior year.

The “one Catholic student” rate was $200 per year. The next level up was the “two or more in the same family” category (which described quite a few 1970s Catholic families).

Those families were charged $250 per year. Total.

Except for the fees. Those added up to $32 and included access to every home athletic event.

My dad’s file had a space labeled “Health Code,” in which a parent was to enter from one of eight codes.

Among others they could choose from: “N—Normal; C—Crippled; SD—Speech Defect; or FB—Feeble Minded.”

Talk about a lawsuit.

Nancy’s sister’s registration card asked the question, “Describe the facilities available for home study?”

Her “private bedroom” must have

been a good enough answer.

I had my own bedroom, too, but that didn’t keep my sisters’ noise out.

It didn’t turn off my stereo nor keep me from putting off my trig homework. But they no longer cared or asked when I arrived.

And here’s my personal favorite: “Describe the attitude of the parents toward the school.” I wonder if any parent ever wrote anything other than “cooperative?”

I won’t lie: that would still be good information to know.

Early files all included health records apparently and occasionally compiled simply by asking the student, “Have you had the measles?

Chicken pox? Do you still have your tonsils? Let me see your teeth, and can you read this eye chart?”

Our parents’ records showed their yearly height and weight with an accompanying indicator of what a “normal weight” should be. So, we apparently recorded failures in math and food.

And oddly, in 1944, it says my dad had zero teeth. He was 13 then— sounds like he was pulling someone’s leg.

It was a fun little trek through years gone by, imagining their lives and realizing just how much one school has evolved.

Sadly, though, when requests come in for transcripts, all that ever gets sent is a history of courses and grades. That’s too bad. It’s never been a complete picture of the young men and women who walk through those hallways.

Those things are important for sure.

Employment and college are often offered or denied based on such—that hasn’t changed. Probably won’t.

But, thankfully, our God has a way of appreciating the whole of a person, guiding us gently and welcoming us home.

Even the feeble minded.

Dear God—Please help us value what’s on the inside where there’s a much fuller story … and a soul like none other.

Amen. ■ George Valadie is a parishioner at St. Stephen Church in Chattanooga.

by Deacon Bob Hunt

The Gospel of Mark and Church persecution As churches and facilities are attacked for their pro-life beliefs, remember that Jesus walks ahead of us “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom should I fear? The Lord is my life’s refuge; of whom should I be afraid? When evildoers come at me to devour my flesh, these enemies and foes themselves stumble and fall. Though an army encamp against me, my heart does not fear; though war be waged against me, even then do I trust” (Psalm 27:1-3).

T

hese words of comfort and confidence in the Lord’s protection speak well to Catholics in these days. Since 2020, there have been 138 attacks on Catholic churches and institutions in the United States, as of mid-June. Those attacks have sharply increased since the leak of the Supreme Court draft that recommended overturning Roe v. Wade. (This column was written before the Supreme Court ruled on the Dodds-Mississippi abortion case). Just since the beginning of May, there have been at least 11 attacks on churches, including: n May 3—Sacred Heart of Mary Church in Boulder, Colo., was defaced with pro-abortion slogans, including, “My Body, My Choice.” n May 15—Vandals destroyed the statues of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and of the Sacred Heart of Jesus at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Staten Island. n May 22—St. Michael Church

B6 n JULY 3, 2022

in Olympia, Wash., was defaced with the words “Abort the church” spray-painted on a wall. The Bo Brown Memorial Cell of Jane’s Revenge claimed responsibility, along with attacks on three non-Catholic churches. n June 12—A nearly naked woman stood up on a pew at St. Veronica Church in Eastpointe, Mich., and shouted pro-abortion slogans. She was joined by two other protesters holding pro-abortion banners. n After the Supreme Court ruled that there is no constitutional right to an abortion, attacks on Catholic churches continued. St. Colman Church in Spring, W.Va., built in 1878 and a National Historic Site, was burned to the ground by an arsonist. As yet, no suspect or motive has been identified.

Here in the Diocese of Knoxville, the Dameron Avenue offices of Catholic Charities were burned by an arsonist last November. It is unknown what motive the arsonist had.

The Catholic Church has been the most consistent and most vocal institution in America on the moral horror of abortion and on the failure that abortion is in respecting human life and in caring for the most vulnerable among us, including the pre-born child and his or her mother. Pro-abortion “rights” advocates

in their actions in favor of abortion have shown no hesitation in targeting the Catholic Church. Ruth Sent Us, especially, has been clear in its calls to attack Catholic churches, disrupt Masses, and “burn the Eucharist.” Catholics should not be surprised that our churches are targeted. We should expect it. It is part of the price we pay for being faithful to the demand of Christ to protect the least among us.

But attacks on churches here in the United States are nothing compared to what our confreres suffer in other parts of the world. On Pentecost Sunday, gunmen entered St. Francis Xavier Church in Owo, Nigeria, and killed at least 50 worshipers. It is suspected that the gunmen were members of a radical Islamic militia.

There is a long history of persecution and martyrdom of Christians in Nigeria, while the government is criticized for doing little to nothing to protect Nigeria’s Christians.

The Gospel According to Mark can be divided into two main sections. The first section, from chapters 1 to 8, focuses on the identity of Jesus as the one who teaches and acts with authority. The remaining chapters of the Gospel focus on what it means to be a true disciple of Jesus. After prophesying His suffering and death, the disciples still fail to understand Jesus’ mis-

w ww.di o k no x .o rg

sion. They argue over who is greatest among them. Jesus tells them, “Whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you will be the slave of all. For the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:42-45). Jesus gave His life, handing it over for the sake of the many.

Those who follow Him, who would be His disciples, must take up their crosses alongside Him and give their lives for His sake and His mission. This is what it means to be a true disciple.

Mark wrote his Gospel to a Church in Rome that was facing persecution. Many were being martyred for their faith. Mark wrote to inspire with courage the followers of Jesus to take up their crosses, as Jesus had, and offer their lives for the Gospel. Jesus walked ahead of the disciples on the road to suffering and death.

He will walk ahead of us now. As disciples, we are to follow Jesus on the way. His way is suffering, but suffering unto glory.

Be Christ for all. Bring Christ to all. See Christ in all. ■ Deacon Bob Hunt is a husband, father, grandfather, and parishioner at All Saints Church in Knoxville.

TH E EA S T TEN N ES S EE C ATH OLI C

T

he state of Tennessee Knights of Columbus recently held their annual convention for the 105 councils representing the 12,400 member Knights across the state. Among the activities of the convention was the presentation of awards to councils, assemblies, and some individuals based on activities during the fraternal year.

Two notable individual awards presented are the State Knight of the Year and the State Family of the Year. Fairfield Glade’s Monsignor Philip F. Thoni Council 16088 is proud to announce that both of these prestigious awards went to members of its council and St. Francis of Assisi Parish.

The purpose of the Family of the Year award is to promote and support the development of strong and vibrant families. The recipient is selected by a committee whose target is a family that models Christian family values and visibly lives them every day. This year, the committee chose to honor Vincent and Sandra D’Alessandro with this recognition. The D’Alessandros are extensively involved in activities at St. Francis

of Assisi Parish with leadership roles in music and liturgy planning, the church environment committee, and the parish safety team. Both D’Alessandros are active supporters of Knights of Columbus activities for the Hilltoppers Inc., a nonprofit agency that assists adults with intellectual and other specific disabilities promoting health, independence, and employment to achieve success and a full life. Sandra is also an active member of the Ladies Club of Fairfield Glade and Hospice of Cumberland County.

The Knight of the Year award promotes the example of faithful men. This year, the selection committee chose Larry Opatik. Mr. Opatik is involved in the Knights of Columbus activities that support the Hilltoppers. He has set up and coordinated benefit concerts for the Hilltoppers in the spring and fall of each year for several years. The performers, the Mount LeConte Jug Band and Jeff Allen and AC Drive, perform at no charge, allowing the Hilltoppers the ultimate gain from concert revenues.

Additionally, Mr. Opatik has established the Knights continued on page B8

COURTESY OF MIKE RODTS

Fairfield Glade council has state Knight and family of the year

Knights honorees Larry and Myra Opatik and Vince and Sandra D’Alessandro attend the Tennessee Knights State Convention banquet.

Calendar continued from page B5 this area. For more information, contact Sandi Davidson at 865-776-4510 or sandi@ccetn.org.

The next Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekends are set for Sept. 9-11 and Nov. 11-13 at the Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta North in Johns Creek, Ga. Apply online at GATN-wwme.org, call 678-242-WWME, or e-mail applications@GATN-wwme.org. Also, WWME has a focused program for couples with a spouse in the military. Information can be found at www.foryourmilitary marriage.com.

Father Julian Cardona of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in Lenoir City is leading a pilgrimage to Mexico to visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe and other religious points of interest. The departure date is Sept. 26 and the return date Oct. 2. Mass will be celebrated each day in special churches. To download the brochure, visit www.selectinternational​ tours.com. In the search box type “Jim Gecsei.” Call Mr. Gecsei at 865-8033555 for more information.

Father Bill McNeeley of Holy Ghost Parish in Knoxville will be the spiritual director for a pilgrimage to Ireland from Sept. 29 to Oct. 8. Pilgrims will visit Dublin, Wicklow, Glendalough, Tipperary, the Rock of Cashel, Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, Shannon, the Cliffs of Mo-

her, Corcomroe Abbey, Galway, Corrib Lake, Clonmacnoise, and Knock. Cost is $3,759 per person from Knoxville. For more information, visit www.pilgrimages. com/frmcneeley.

“Shrines and Sites, a Pilgrimage to Switzerland,” is set for April 17-27, 2023. Join Father Michael Maples to experience the sacred sites and beauty of Switzerland. The group will have three nights in Lucerne, with stops at Muri Abbey to celebrate Mass and in Solothurn to visit St. Ursus Cathedral. There will be an excursion by coach to Engelberg Abbey and then by cable car to the top of Mount Titlis, considered one of Switzerland’s top destinations. Pilgrims will discover Europe’s highest train station on a full-day train tour to Jungfraujoch. On arrival, they will view the UNESCO-listed landscape and explore summit attractions, such as the Ice Palace and Sphinx Observatory, with views over Aletsch Glacier, Europe’s longest glacier. They will take the scenic Gotthard Panorama Express boat on Lake Lucerne before boarding a train to Lugano, where they will have a two-night stay. A day of sightseeing that includes Santa Maria Degli Angeli Church and a cable-car ride to Monte San Salvatore will follow. The exploration continues with a visit to the Cathedral of Lugano, St. Mary’s, the Rocco Church, San Lorenzo Cathedral, and the Museo D’ Arte. The group will

visit the Marian Shrine of Switzerland to see the statue of the Black Madonna, Our Lady of Einsiedeln, and go on to Zurich. Pilgrims will visit St. Gallen Abbey and Library, the oldest in Europe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A boat ride down the Limmat River under the bridges and a visit to the Fraumunster Church to see the Chagall stained-glass windows will follow. For more information, contact Lisa Morris at 865-5671245 or lisam@select-intl.com.

Join Father Mike Nolan on a pilgrimage to Northern Ireland and Scotland from June 12-23, 2023, and visit St. Patrick’s Church in Armagh and his gravesite in Downpatrick. Pilgrims will stop in Glenarm and Ballycastle and drive the Causeway Coastal Route. They will experience the beauty of Giant’s Causeway and stay two nights in a beautiful coastal town before visiting Belfast, where they will have the opportunity to see the Peace Wall and visit the Titanic Belfast Exhibit, St. George’s Market, and more. The group will then take a ferry to Scotland, visiting Glasgow, Inverness, Edinburgh, and St. Andrews.

For more information, contact Lisa Morris at 865-567-1245 or lisam@select-intl. com.

A pilgrimage to Greece, including a four-day Aegean cruise, is set for Sept.

18-29, 2023. Join Glenmary Father

Steve Pawelk “In the Footsteps of St. Paul” as pilgrims visit the places where St. Paul preached the Gospel—Thessaloniki, Philippi, Corinth, and Athens— and visit the Meteora Monasteries. The Aegean cruise stops on the islands of Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, Rhodes, and Patmos and will also visit the ancient city of Ephesus, featuring some of the most magnificent excavations in the world, and visit Mary’s house. For more information, contact Lisa Morris at 865567-1245 or lisam@select-intl.com.

Mass in the extraordinary form (“traditional Latin”) is celebrated at noon each Sunday at Holy Ghost Church in Knoxville; every Sunday at 8 a.m. at St. Mary Church in Athens; at 2 p.m. each Sunday at St. Mary Church in Johnson City; at 6 p.m. most Thursdays at St. Mary Church in Oak Ridge; and at 11:30 a.m. every Sunday at the Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul in Chattanooga. For more information, visit www.KnoxLatinMass.net.

The St. Thomas the Apostle Eastern (Byzantine) Catholic Mission located at 2304 Ault Road, Knoxville, TN 37914, meets for Divine Liturgy every first, second, and fourth Sunday at 1:30 p.m.

All services are in English. Call Father Richard Armstrong at 865-621-8499 or visit www.facebook.com/SaintThomas Knoxville/ for more information. n

Parish notes continued from page B4 The vacation Bible school service project for this summer is Peter’s Pence. Children are asked to bring a donation to assist with the Holy Father’s collection. VBS continues Wednesdays through July 13.

Don Myers was elected as the new Grand Knight of the Notre Dame Knights of Columbus and Ralph Boswell as the new deputy Grand Knight. Angelo Botta was presented with an honorary lifetime membership after 25 years of service. Josh Shortridge, Matthew Musgrove, and Brian Seely completed their exemplification.

The Knights of Columbus sponsored a Medic Regional Blood Drive on July 3 at the church.

Anniversaries: Andy and Rita Chaloux (67), Deacon Tim and Cecilia Marcy (58), Roger and Barbara Violette (58), Anthony and Carole LaMarca (55) St. Elizabeth, Elizabethton The Knights of Columbus presented a grant check of $5,000 from the KIND Foundation of Tennessee to Mountain Region Speech and Hearing Center in Kingsport on May 31. These funds came from the Knights’ parish fund drive to help the intellectually disabled (formerly the Tootsie Roll drive) and will be used to assist in the payment of services for those from Carter County and Elizabethton who cannot afford treatment.

Mountain Region Speech and Hearing Center in Kingsport on May 31 surprised Bob Peoples with a plaque showing its appreciation for his efforts in obtaining more than $20,000 over the years for the organization. The plaque was placed on a wall of one of the therapy rooms used for helping patients with intellectual disabilities. The therapy room will now be called TH E EAST T E N N E S S E E C AT HO L I C

the Bob Peoples Knights of Columbus Therapy Room. Mr. Peoples has been instrumental (often serving as drive chairman) in the efforts of the St. Elizabeth Knights council to raise money to help those with intellectual disabilities.

and Kelly Frost (10), Omar Roman de la Sancha and Alma Martinez Resendiz (5)

The Knights delivered 445 pounds of food and $500 in cash to Assistance & Resource Ministries (ARM) on May 11 from their Lenten food drive. From this year’s Advent and Lenten food drives, St. Elizabeth provided ARM with a total of 711 pounds of food and $1,200 in cash as part of the Knights’ Food for Families Program. The money will be used by ARM to assist those in need of food from Elizabethton and Carter County.

The June Knight of the month was Scott Carson.

Two couples celebrated special anniversaries during the first six months of this year: Ed and Linda Yarwood (50) and George and Thea Bratton (35).

The Knights are sponsoring a baseball outing for St. Elizabeth on Sunday, July 17, at the Elizabethton River Riders vs.

Johnson City Doughboys game. Festivities will include games, a cookout at Riverside Park Pavilion (next to the ballpark), and free admission to the game.

To volunteer for the fest, contact Beth Wolf at 865-679-0535 or beth7137@att. net.

Smoky Mountain Deanery Holy Ghost, Knoxville

Associate pastor Father Michael Hendershott is teaching two college-level intensive courses this summer. One course will study the soul in terms of its powers and faculties as well as the virtues and gifts of the Holy Spirt that perfect, heal, and elevate the soul. The other class will be a commentary on the Gospel of Mark.

The classes began June 14 and continue twice a week for four weeks.

On fourth Saturdays, the St. Benedict Co-Op will lead a group of volunteers in assembling blessing bags for the homeless. Food items and volunteers are needed—children and adults are welcome. For more information or for a list of needed items, contact Lindy Crace at 225-205-3261 or lindybelle77@gmail. com.

The parish office has new staff e-mail addresses. Receptionist Nancy Brennan Strange may be reached at icknox office@gmail.com, and business manager Jenifer Dills may be reached for bulletin announcements at icknoxbulletin@gmail. com.

A July study on the Acts of the Apostles began July 5 and continues through July 26.

Anniversary: Mike and Brigid Johnson (50) St. Joseph the Worker, Madisonville The parish is taking part in “Christmas in July” to benefit the Good Shepherd Center as it tries to provide a new outfit for school-aged children. Take a tag off the tree at the church and return items by Sunday, July 24. Contact Sue MacDuff with questions at 423-295-4519 or suemacd536@gmail. com. Call the Good Shepherd Center at 423-420-8888.

Immaculate Conception, Knoxville St. Patrick, Morristown

St. Patrick’s vacation Bible school June 20-24 had a theme of “Monumental: Celebrating God’s Greatness.”

The women’s group’s Christ the Child Baby Shower will be held in the parish hall after all Masses on Saturday and Sunday, July 16 and 17. All gifts will be donated to the Ladies of Charity’s Mary’s Cradle Baby Layette Ministry. Clothing, towels, and blankets are needed.

Anniversaries: Richard and Marilyn Giddish (67), Charles and Diane Johnson (66), Thomas and Laura Dziezyk (54), Paul and Pamela Von Herbulis (52), Mark and Barbara Ingram (30), Gregorio Paez and Victoria Ventura (30), Juan AlvaradoSimon and Izabela Juan-Felix (10), Carl

The IC Irish Fest is set for 4 to 10 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 13. The women’s group is having a dessert table at the event. A variety of Irish dishes may be prepared to stock the table. For more information, contact Beth at meyer.beth73@gmail. com or Marilyn at mreda51@gmail.com.

The parish held a Corpus Christi procession June 19.

w ww.di o k no x .o rg

The Knights of Columbus’ annual yard sale will take place Friday and Saturday, Sept. 9-10, with a sale Thursday, Sept.

8, for parishioners only (note corrected dates). Proceeds will support the Knights’ many Monroe County charities. All items of value that are clean and in working order are welcomed. Call Ed Harless at 423-884-2575 or Dan Callan at 423-8076118 for information on yard sale items needed.

St. Joseph the Worker held a special church-wide rosary June 30 at the grotto, an event sponsored by the Respect for Life Committee. n JULY 3, 2022 n B7

Knights continued from page B7

Daily readings Friday, July 1: Amos 8:4-6, 9-12; Psalm 119: 2, 10, 20, 30, 40, 131; Matthew 9:9-13 Saturday, July 2: Amos 9:11-15; Psalm 85:9-14; Matthew 9:14-17 Sunday, July 3: Isaiah 66:10-14; Psalm 66:1-7, 16, 20; Galatians 6:1418; Luke 10:1-12, 17-20 Monday, July 4: Hosea 2:16-18, 2122; Psalm 145:2-9; Matthew 9:18-26 Tuesday, July 5: Hosea 8:4-7, 11-13; Psalm 115:3-10; Matthew 9:32-38 Wednesday, July 6: Hosea 10:1-3, 7-8, 12; Psalm 105:2-7; Matthew 10:1-7 Thursday, July 7: Hosea 11:1-4, 8-9; Psalm 80:2-3, 15-16; Matthew 10:7-15 Friday, July 8: Hosea 14:2-10; Psalm 51:3-4, 8-9, 12-14, 17; Matthew 10:16-23 Saturday, July 9: Isaiah 6:1-8; Psalm 93:1-2, 5; Matthew 10:24-33 Sunday, July 10: Deuteronomy

B8 n JULY 3, 2022

Rogersville Knights visit Byzantine church in Knoxville As the war rages in Ukraine, the Knights of Columbus and Council 8860 at St. Henry Parish in Rogersville have taken to the power of prayer for an end to the suffering of the Ukrainian people and an end to the war. Along with the prayers, Council 8860 lecturer Charles McCann led a discussion about the Eastern Rite Church in membership meetings. The Byzantine rite is the most widely observed. As a culmination to these discussions, council members visited St. Thomas the Apostle Byzantine Church in Knoxville recently and attended the Divine Liturgy. Pastor Father Richard Armstrong and the parishioners extended their hospitality. At left are Father Armstrong with (from left) Stephen Derosia, council warden; Mr. McCann; and Bill Hewitt, Grand Knight.

COURTESY OF BILL HEWITT

Hilltop Cluckers, a group of Hilltoppers members who perform a few songs before each of the main acts in the concerts. Mr. Opatik plays guitar and practices with the Cluckers for many weeks leading up to each concert, which is very rewarding to the singers involved. His presence in each of these sessions is looked forward to by all at Hilltoppers.

Besides his great work with the Hilltoppers, Mr. Opatik was instrumental in setting up a golf-club donation and repair program for the purpose of helping the youth of Cumberland County. During the year, this group collected and distributed more than 200 sets of golf clubs to area schools. Clubs that were too aged or in disrepair were cut to an appropriate length for the intended players and fitted with new grips. Besides distributing the clubs, this project donated other golf items, including about 5,000 golf balls.

The Monsignor Philip F. Thoni Council and St. Francis of Assisi Parish are proud to have Vince and Sandy D’Alessandro and Larry Opatik among their members. n

30:10-14; Psalm 69:14, 17, 30-31, 3334, 36-37; Colossians 1:15-20; Luke 10:25-37 Monday, July 11: Memorial of St. Benedict, abbot, Isaiah 1:10-17; Psalm 50:8-9, 16-17, 21, 23; Matthew 10:34–11:1 Tuesday, July 12: Isaiah 7:1-9; Psalm 48:2-8; Matthew 11:20-24 Wednesday, July 13: Isaiah 10:5-7, 13-16; Psalm 94:5-10, 14-15; Matthew 11:25-27 Thursday, July 14: Memorial of St. Kateri Tekakwitha, virgin, Isaiah 26:7-9, 12, 16-19; Psalm 102:13-21; Matthew 11:28-30 Friday, July 15: Memorial of St. Bonaventure, bishop and doctor of the Church, Isaiah 38:1-6, 21-22, 7-8; Isaiah 38:10-12, 16; Matthew 12:1-8 Saturday, July 16: Micah 2:1-5; Psalm 10:1-4, 7-8, 14; Matthew 12:14-21

Sunday, July 17: Genesis 18:1-10; Psalm 15:2-5; Colossians 1:24-28; Luke 10:38-42 Monday, July 18: Micah 6:1-4, 6-8; Psalm 50:5-6, 8-9, 16-17, 21, 23; Matthew 12:38-42 Tuesday, July 19: Micah 7:14-15, 1820; Psalm 85:2-8; Matthew 12:46-50 Wednesday, July 20: Jeremiah 1:1, 4-10; Psalm 71:1-6, 15, 17; Matthew 13:1-9 Thursday, July 21: Jeremiah 2:1-3, 7-8, 12-13; Psalm 36:6-11; Matthew 13:10-17 Friday, July 22: Feast of St. Mary Magdalene, Song of Songs 3:1-4; Psalm 63:2-6, 8-9; John 20:1-2, 11-18 Saturday, July 23: Jeremiah 7:111; Psalm 84:3-6, 8, 11; Matthew 13:24-30 Sunday, July 24: Genesis 18:20-32; Psalm 138:1-3, 6-8; Colossians 2:1214; Luke 11:1-13

w ww.di o k no x .o rg

Monday, July 25: Feast of St. James, apostle, 2 Corinthians 4:7-15; Psalm 126:1-6; Matthew 20:20-28 Tuesday, July 26: Memorial of Sts. Joachim and Anne, parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Jeremiah 14:17-22; Psalm 79:8-9, 11, 13; Matthew 13:36-43 Wednesday, July 27: Jeremiah 15:10, 16-21; Psalm 59:2-4, 10-11, 17-18; John 13:44-46 Thursday, July 28: Jeremiah 18:1-6; Psalm 146:1-6; Matthew 13:47-53 Friday, July 29: Memorial of Sts. Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, Jeremiah 26:1-9; Psalm 69:5, 8-10, 14; John 11:19-27 Saturday, July 30: Jeremiah 26:1116, 24; Psalm 69:15-16, 30-31, 33-34; Matthew 14:1-12 Sunday, July 31: Ecclesiastes 1:2 and 2:21-23; Psalm 90:3-6, 12-14, 17; Colossians 3:1-5, 9-11; Luke 12:13-21 n

TH E EA S T TEN N ES S EE C ATH OLI C

COURTESY OF MARY WIECZOREK (3)

Parish and community news

Quilting for Haiti Christina Seaman sits surrounded by her quilts. Above right, she presents a donation to Father Glenn Meaux of the Kobonal Mission Project in Haiti from the proceeds of a Memorial Day weekend sale of the quilts at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Fairfield Glade. Below right are ladies looking over quilts during the sale.

Fairfield Glade parishioner’s quilts sold to benefit mission in Haiti

C

hristina Seaman of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Fairfield Glade took up quilting in 2000 and became an avid quilt maker. She works with colorful fabric and all kinds of quilting methods from piecing to appliqué, many also with beautifully finished backings. Over the years she has given quilts to family and friends, and now she has a heart for Haiti.

Mrs. Seaman and her husband moved to the Glade and joined St. Francis of Assisi one and a half years ago. She provided a wide selection of designs and colors in a sale of more than 50 various-sized

quilts that was held Memorial Day weekend in Sheehan Hall for funding the Kobonal Mission Project in Haiti, which St. Francis of Assisi supports. Most of them sold on Saturday afternoon before Mass, resulting in a sellout before Sunday’s last Mass even began.

Father Glenn Meaux, who began and still runs the mission in the central mountains of Haiti, comes every year to visit St. Francis to thank parishioners for their generosity. He has been working at the mission for 32 years. Mrs. Seaman presented the check from the proceeds of the quilt sale to him at Mass on June 12. n

S

pecial Olympics Tennessee recently received checks totaling $7,777 that were from the St. John Neumann Parish Ted H. Denning Jr. Knights of Columbus Council 8781 fundraising efforts.

The “Lucky 7s” contribution supported the Hawkins County Unified flag football team so that it could participate in the quadrennial Special Olympics USA Games in Orlando on June 4-12. This is the first time a Special Olympics team from Hawkins County has ever been selected to attend a USA Games event.

With no large businesses in its impoverished community, fundraising is a daunting task for the team. Special Olympics Tennessee indicates that each member needs

$1,000 to cover uniforms, travel, lodging, and meals. Council 8781 members voted to give $1,035 from prior KIND fundraising efforts before starting the drive to raise additional funds (the KIND Foundation is a Knights of Columbus organization providing grant opportunities to those with special needs).

Father Emil Kapaun Assembly 3500, which serves the council’s Fourth Degree members, contributed $500. Council 8781 applied for and received a $5,000 grant that draws from a pool of KIND contributions collected statewide.

To reach $7,777, Council 8781 members donated a total of $1,242.

And, separately, other Council 8781 members donated online a total of $830. n

All 7s In a presentation at Volunteer High School in Church Hill, accepting the $7,777 check from Walt Hanson, Council 8781 Grand Knight, is Christy Thacker, Special Olympics Hawkins County area director. With them are Lindsey, the flag football team center and rusher, and Greg Sturgill, VHS principal.

Team photo A snapshot of the Hawkins County Unified flag football team: Scottie lost both parents at an early age. He is homeless. Special Olympics has given him opportunities he would never have otherwise. Robert is an avid snowboarder. He was chosen to compete in the World Winter Games in Austria a few years back. Lindsey is also considered homeless.

She is staying with her aunt at this time. Lindsey loves all sports. This is her last year of high school. Clint was adopted while in seventh grade. He was already a Special Olympics athlete when he moved to the area. He is a student at ETSU in the access program. He works as a janitor and lives at home with his father. Joe works at Lowe’s. He has lived independently for more than a year and attends ETSU in the access program.

COURTESY OF NANCY POWELL

COURTESY OF JOHN VANNUCCI

Gold medal winners The Hawkins County Unified flag football team won gold at the Special Olympics USA Games held in Orlando.

COURTESY OF WALT HANSON (3)

St. John Neumann Knights donate $7,777 to Special Olympics team

TH E EAST T E N N E S S E E C AT HO L I C

w ww.di o k no x .o rg

Seventeen receive their first Communion at St. Stephen Church Father Manuel Pérez presided over the Mass recently at St. Stephen Church in Chattanooga when 17 students received their first Holy Communion. Knights of Columbus Holy Family Council 6099 handed out Holy Family statues as a sacramental gift to the first Communion class. Pictured at left are Riley Cunningham and her mother, Christine.

JULY 3, 2022 n B9

Catholic schools

Soccer player Gustavo Rivera returns to KCHS He comes back as a member of the One Knoxville Sporting Club, a team in USL League Two

By Dan McWilliams

DAN MCWILLIAMS (2)

K

Battle near the goal A One Knoxville player (left) and his Tri-Cities opponent go after the ball near the byline in their May 17 game.

Back at his alma mater Gustavo Rivera stands with the scoreboard at Blaine Stadium at KCHS behind him.

Windsor.

“I’ve always played. I moved out to Denver to be with my thengirlfriend—she’s now my wife,” he said. “We lived out there for almost four years, and I played for a team that wasn’t at this level there. It was a Sunday Elite team. We trained twice a week, but of course I trained as much as I could outside of that.

Then when we moved back to Knoxville, I heard about this team coming, and I knew I’d been training already, and so I had something even more to prepare for. I went to the tryout and took my chance.”

Mr. Rivera beat the odds, considering the number of players trying out for One Knoxville SC. He said he was surprised when he got the call that he had made the team.

“Of course. You go to the tryout.

There are 100-and-something guys

there who are good players,” he said. “We already knew what type of players the coaches were going to be bringing in to the team who didn’t have to try out. Just being one of those people who they’d never heard of or seen before—I knew the chances were low, but I’d been preparing and just wanted to have a good day of soccer, and I guess that they saw something worth picking me up for. Very, very surprised but very honored.”

Through 11 games, One Knoxville SC stood atop League Two’s South Central Division of the Southern Conference with a 9-1-1 record. The team has held its home games at KCHS, Austin-East Magnet High School, and Maryville College.

“I’ve always had the dream of playing at the highest level I possibly could,” Mr. Rivera said. “I really haven’t played anywhere at this level since graduating college. There’s a big gap in the level that I had from graduating and playing in college

to now. I didn’t have anything in between like these guys have. I certainly never lost sight of the dream to play at the highest level that I could.”

Mr. Rivera as of the May 17 game had not made the game-day roster for One Knoxville. His status with the squad “totally depends on me,” he said.

“The coaches have made it very clear that the opportunities are up for grabs,” he said. “It’s definitely an adjustment at this level for someone like me to just be out there with guys like this and the pace and the demand that the coaches put on the players. It really depends on how I perform consistently. I think that it’s totally justified that I haven’t gotten on the field yet, but it’s absolutely something I’m working toward.

There’s a lot of fantastic players up there and guys out on the field that I have to beat out to get on that gameday squad, so that’s a challenge I don’t take lightly.” ■

COURTESY OF DON CAMBRON

COURTESY OF PAM RHOADES

noxville Catholic High School graduate Gustavo Rivera is living the dream of playing semi-professional soccer as he competes for One Knoxville Sporting Club, a new team playing at the USL League Two level.

Mr. Rivera graduated from Knoxville Catholic in 2010. He returned to his alma mater May 17 as host One Knoxville SC defeated the TriCities Otters 1-0 on the KCHS turf at Blaine Stadium for its first win of the season.

“It’s an incredible opportunity for someone like me, being from here, to play with players like this and coaches like this who I probably wouldn’t have been exposed to otherwise,” Mr. Rivera said. “It’s a fantastic chance to just be involved in something special.”

The KCHS grad has a day job.

“I’m a sales rep for a software company, so I work from home. I go to work after training every day,” he said.

Mr. Rivera said he trains “every single day unless it’s a day after a game where we might have a day off. Every day except for Sunday, so Monday through Friday every morning,” with Saturdays being game days.

He said “it’s pretty special” being back at KCHS. “I was not a superstar when I was here, so to be here with this level of players and coaches, just to be included in that back here 12 years later—it’s incredibly special,” he said.

After playing four years for Lincoln Memorial University, graduating in 2014, Mr. Rivera has kept his game up around his work schedule ever since. He lives with his wife, Elisabeth, whose nickname is

Knoxville Catholic holds special summer signing day Two Knoxville Catholic High School student-athletes celebrated their signing day June 21 in the KCHS library to continue their academic and athletic careers. They joined 23 other KCHS student-athletes, representing 10 sports, who have already signed this year with colleges and universities covering nine states. In the summer signing, Bella Flask committed to Mercyhurst University in soccer, and Canyon Geren signed with Milligan College in baseball. They are pictured above with speaker Jason Surlas, Knoxville Catholic athletics director.

COURTESY OF KNOXVILLE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

COURTESY OF KNOXVILLE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

Holy Spirit parishioner earns Eagle Scout Award Will Cambron of Troop 166 in Hixson earned his Eagle Scout Award on April 18.

Will is the son of Don and Cheryl Cambron of Soddy-Daisy. He will be a senior this fall at STEM School Chattanooga. In addition to all the outdoor activities typical of Scouts, Will enjoys playing soccer, playing clarinet in the Chattanooga State Orchestra, playing video games, and hanging out with his friends. His college plans are not yet set, though he hopes to pursue an engineering degree. Will is a member of Holy Spirit Parish in Soddy-Daisy, where he is an altar server as well as an active member of the youth group. He joined the Cub Scouts at Pack 3266 at Burks United Methodist Church in the first grade and worked his way up to Troop 166, where he has been a member for more than six years. He has served in many leadership positions within the troop, including patrol leader, Order of the Arrow representative, assistant senior patrol leader, and senior patrol leader. In 2021, he participated in a 12-day backpacking trip at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico. For his Eagle project, he worked on the playground at Veteran’s Park in SoddyDaisy in an effort that involved 39 volunteers and 250 hours of work.

KCHS conducts baseball camp The boys and girls of summer came out swinging at the Knoxville Catholic High School baseball camp held the week of June 15.

B10 n JULY 3, 2022

Irish Arts Junior Theatre performs The Irish Arts Junior Theatre Co. performed 101 Dalmatians Kids on June 15, featuring a cast of 30 young actors. The program took place in the new St. Gregory the Great Auditorium at Knoxville Catholic High School.

www.di o k no x .o rg

TH E EA S T TEN N ES S EE C ATH OLI C