Aug. 2, 2020, ET Catholic, B section

NEWS FROM THE DIOCESE OF KNOXVILLE

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KCHS, NDHS Class of 2020 finally graduates The COVID-19 pandemic may have sent home seniors for the last two months of their high school careers and delayed graduation, but the commencement ceremonies for Knoxville Catholic High School and Notre Dame High School nevertheless took place in the second half of June.

Each school’s football stadium hosted the outdoor commencements as 149 KCHS students received diplomas June 19 and 80 NDHS students were awarded theirs June 27. Stories by Dan McWilliams

KCHS graduation continued on page B2

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From the bishop to you Knoxville Catholic High School senior Chloe Arnwine receives her diploma from Bishop Richard F. Stika at the Fighting Irish’s commencement.

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ishop Richard F. Stika, superintendent of Catholic schools Dr. Sedonna Prater, school president Dickie Sompayrac, vicar general and Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus rector Father David Boettner, and school chaplain Father Michael Hendershott were among the dignitaries attending the Knoxville Catholic graduation.

Dr. Prater talked about the unusual spring that saw classes for all Diocese of Knoxville students end in March and lead to at-home learning for the remainder of the school year.

“None of us could have ever imagined that our graduating scholars would have ended their Catholic high school in quarantine from a pandemic,” she said. “Our mission proclaims that our schools prepare scholars, leaders, and saints—this year has provided insight into the leaders these students are as they have demonstrated strength, resilience, creativity, and a tenacious spirit.

“I am confident that their future will not be dimmed by these experiences; rather, our graduates are even more prepared to respond to our world’s needs with grace and resolve. Being able to celebrate our graduates at their commencement ceremonies provided us all the opportunity to joyfully embrace their accomplishments, have closure on an important milestone, and reinforce our own hope in each of the students as they enter this next phase of their life’s journey.”

Mr. Sompayrac took the microphone first at the KCHS ceremony.

“To dignitaries and others attending: On behalf of the class of 2020, it gives me great pleasure to welcome each of you to tonight’s ceremony, the 88th commencement in Knoxville Catholic’s rich history,” he said. “Allow me to begin by expressing my personal appreciation to Bishop Stika, Father David, and Dr. Prater. Your attendance today is

Notre Dame High School honors Sarah Eiselstein and Domenic Mariani each received the Christian Living Award at the NDHS graduation ceremony. They are standing with Dr. Sedonna Prater (left), superintendent of Catholic schools; Laura Swenson, NDHS dean of academic affairs; and John Mullin, NDHS dean of students.

otre Dame conducted its “much awaited and long overdue 139th commencement exercises,” school president George Valadie said.

Bishop Richard F. Stika was unable to attend the Notre Dame graduation because he was selfquarantining after days before potentially being exposed to someone who tested positive for the coronavirus. Bishop Stika ultimately tested negative for the virus.

Mr. Valadie, a member of the Notre Dame class of 1971, presided at the commencement, joined by schools superintendent Dr. Sedonna Prater, school chaplain Father Christopher Manning, dean of students John Mullin, and dean of academic affairs Laura Swenson.

“Our faculty and senior class wish to welcome everyone to this year’s commencement. It’s been a long time coming,” Mr. Valadie said. “There are so many people to thank, and we’ll do some of that later. But I want to welcome our parents, grandparents, and siblings.

I wish we could have extended an open invitation to the world—this class of students deserves nothing more than to be celebrated.

“But in another sense—and assuming our technology comes through—this will be the first Notre Dame graduation that will be broadcast across the globe.”

The graduation ceremony was livestreamed through the NDHS website.

Two students spoke after Mr. Valadie’s opening remarks. The salutatory address of welcome was given

by Nora Bauer, who at 4.51 posted the second-highest grade point average among Notre Dame seniors.

The valedictory address of farewell was presented by Lauren Stevens, whose 4.52 GPA was the highest in the class of 2020.

“We need to find meaning in what transcends time and space,” Nora said. “Even today, we are not NDHS graduation continued on page B6

Matthew Donahue ordained to the transitional diaconate

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s Bishop Richard F. Stika said in his homily, the name Matthew means “gift from God,” and he added that’s what the Diocese of Knoxville is receiving in newly ordained transitional deacon Matthew Donahue.

The bishop ordained the student at Pontifical North American College in Rome to the diaconate July 21 at his home church of St. John Neumann in Farragut.

“Matthew, I don’t know what you’re going to feel like as you leave this church and go on to your destiny, but you do so touched by God, not because you have earned it, but because it is a gift,” Bishop Stika told Deacon Donahue. “God gives to the Church this day, the universal Church, the eternal Church—God gives to the Church of the Diocese of Knoxville, which covers all of East Tennessee, the gift of Matthew.”

The bishop presided at the ordination Mass. Concelebrating were host pastor Father Joe Reed, new director of vocations and seminarians Father Christopher Floersh, and

Monsignor Pat Garrity. Cardinal Justin Rigali attended in choir. Deacon Zach Griffith was deacon of the Word.

Newly ordained Deacon Donahue soon found himself on the altar alone, preparing the table for the bishop to lead the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

“It’s such a wonderful gift,” the new deacon said of the experience.

“It’s sort of the first step in what we look for when preparing for seminary—serving at the altar, and today I got to take a very real part in that.

It’s such a beautiful experience, such a beautiful gift, and something that I look forward to doing, hopefully with fewer mistakes next time.”

Bishop Stika greeted the socially distanced assembly of priests, deacons, parishioners, guests, and Evangelizing Sisters of Mary by calling the occasion “a great day.”

“It just seems like Matthew has been in the seminary for 27 years, like he’s been there forever,” the bishop said.

Actually, the transitional deacon Diaconate continued on page B7

By Dan McWilliams

DAN MCWILLIAMS

Bishop Stika elevates the seminarian to holy orders, calling him a ‘gift from God’ for the diocese

The prayer of ordination Bishop Richard F. Stika lays his hands on Matthew Donahue during the ordination ceremony as Cardinal Justin Rigali looks on. Deacon Donahue is a student at the Pontifical North American College in Rome and plans to return to his studies there this fall if the coronavirus situation allows.

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Before and after A KCHS student (top) enters Blaine Stadium for the graduation ceremony, while another (bottom) returns to her seat after receiving her diploma. The scoreboard reflects the spirit of the day.

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should be very proud of the fact that you were highly successful in moving from a diverse group of freshmen into a community of seniors.

Because you were able to achieve this often-elusive goal of developing a true sense of community, your class will be remembered as one that truly enhanced the mission of Knoxville Catholic High School.

“Your academic and co-curricular achievements are many, and your countless hours of service to our community are remarkable. But I think this class will be remembered more for how you cared for each other. Four years ago when we met for the first time as the class of 2020, I challenged this group to do three things: get involved, do your very best, and be kind to each other. As we celebrate your many achievements today, let me say simply: mission accomplished.”

The KCHS senior class earned many scholarships, Mr. Sompayrac said.

“Academically, your talents and accolades are numerous, and you lived our mission through your success in the classroom. You should be proud of the fact that this class of 149 students has been offered $14.1 million in scholarships, and you have been accepted to colleges and universities in over 30 states, from New York to Arizona to West Virginia to Texas to California to Pennsylvania, including such institutions as Vanderbilt, Rice, Wake Forest, Marshall, the United States Naval Academy, West Point, and the University of Tennessee, just to name a few.

“To date, 139 members of this class have been offered scholarships to college, representing 93 percent of this class.”

The seniors also left their mark in the sports world.

“Athletically, your four years at Catholic High have been very successful as you have been a part of seven state championships, in volleyball, tennis, boys and girls cross country, dance, football, and boys basketball. And let us not forget your undefeated record in dodge ball and your consecutive Spirit Week titles,” Mr. Sompayrac said.

“In fact, let’s be honest, this class loves Spirit Week.”

The last football season included a national ESPN broadcast of the Fighting Irish’s game against Brentwood Academy.

“I will always remember being asked prior to the ESPN game this past fall, ‘Aren’t you worried your students might do something that brings negative attention to our school on national TV?’ My response, without hesitation, was ‘No. These seniors won’t let that happen,’” Mr. Sompayrac said. “And then to hear the ESPN announcers say that we had the most respectful

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indicative of your strong support for Catholic education and the students who make up the class of 2020.

“It is appropriate that my remarks tonight be directed primarily to our graduates, but we cannot fail to mention the vital role that parents, grandparents, guardians, and special mentors have played in the success of these young people. It is indeed a most humbling thought to realize you have entrusted this fine group to the care of our outstanding faculty, and we are most appreciative of the confidence you have shown by entrusting your most precious resources to our care.”

Mr. Sompayrac said that “as an administration and faculty, it has been our pleasure to watch this class evolve into the outstanding group they have become. As we gather today to send them off with our best wishes, it is our hope and prayer that we have served them well.

“The class of 2020 will go down as a class that has been marked by historical significance. Eighteen years ago, you entered this world as beautiful little miracles at a time when our country was dealing with the devastation of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in New York. And now as you prepare to enter adulthood and your lives after high school, you are dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, and again our country is reeling, not from a terrorist attack but from the coronavirus. You are also going into a world and a nation that is bitterly divided with a climate of racial distrust and injustice. You will be connected by history, and how fitting is it that you will be the ones to determine the next few chapters.”

Graduation day marked an important occasion in history, Mr. Sompayrac said.

“I could not help but think how appropriate it is that today, June 19, we celebrate the 155th anniversary of the effective end of slavery in our country. Yes, black lives matter,” he said. “And if you leave Knoxville Catholic having learned only one thing, it would be that we are all made in the image and likeness of God. God does not favor one man over another, and our Catechism of the Catholic Church spells this out: “‘The equality of men rests essentially on their dignity as persons and the rights that flow from it. Every form of social or cultural discrimination in fundamental personal rights on the grounds of sex, race, color, social conditions, language, or religion must be curbed and eradicated as incompatible with God’s design’ [n. 1935]. That is our challenge and our calling, and that is the challenge of the class of 2020.”

The KCHS president added that “four years ago, you entered our doors with much excitement and anticipation and a healthy amount of fear of those upperclassmen. You

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KCHS graduation continued from page B1

Caps in the air Knoxville Catholic High School students (top) celebrate at the end of the graduation ceremony. Below, a student bumps elbows with Bishop Richard F. Stika after receiving her diploma. Also pictured are Father David Boettner, schools superintendent Dr. Sedonna Prater (second from left), and KCHS academic dean Jane Walker. student body they had encountered, on national TV, was awesome and a reflection of this class and your leadership.”

The class of 2020 “has also shown their talents through the arts, with superior ratings for our band and chorus, along with outstanding performances in Shrek: The Musical and Sense and Sensibility, not to mention the continued growth of Coffee Fest and visual-art displays from our students. And we are all looking forward to hopefully seeing the play, Little Women, before the summer is over,” Mr. Sompayrac said.

“You know, as a faculty and an administration, it is always our hope and prayer that we have served our students well, but I must say that this class has challenged us to be better, whether it was the wildfires in Gatlinburg during your freshman year, the hurricanes in Puerto Rico from your sophomore year, or your backto-back Spirit Week championships from the last two years, or even how you dealt with the at-home learning at the end of your last two months of high school. You handled yourselves with grace and humility. Your resilience has revealed your brilliance, and I am so proud of this class.

“As Father Hendershott said last night [at Baccalaureate], ‘turn to God in good times and in bad, and remember these words from Jesus in Matthew, chapter 11: “Come to me all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest, for my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”’”

Mr. Sompayrac asked the faculty to stand up, and the assembly greeted the teachers with applause.

“The class of 2020 has grown so much over these last four years, so we cannot fail to mention your many successes without recognizing a group that has been instrumental in your education experience,” Mr. Sompayrac said of the faculty.

Knoxville Catholic’s first graduation featured considerably fewer seniors.

“Eighty-eight years ago, Knoxville Catholic opened its doors in the old Ashe home in East Knoxville, and our first graduating class had only 11 students. Certainly this was a humbling beginning,” Mr. Sompayrac said. “As you now look across our campus, you will see Schaad Hall, Faris Field House, Hollin Field, Schriver Fine Arts Wing, Monsignor Garrity Administrative Suite, and so much more. Our faculty has grown from just six teachers in 1932 to nearly 60 now.

“You have taken full advantage of our great faculty and facilities, and for that we are grateful. But it is important to remember that many of these folks have given back, even after their time or their children’s time here, because they want to ensure the future of Catholic High for years to come. As you go out into the

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world to become teachers, doctors, lawyers, social workers, engineers, general managers, priests, and sisters, I ask you to remember KCHS, because our work here is not done.”

Mr. Sompayrac ended his talk by quoting the Holy Father.

“I want to conclude my remarks to our graduates with these words from Pope Francis, spoken on World Youth Day several years ago: ‘If we want to have real meaning and fulfillment as you want and as you deserve, I say to each one of you: put on faith, and your life will take on a new flavor. It will have a compass to show you the way. Put on hope, and every one of your days will be enlightened and your horizon will no longer be dark but luminous. Put on love, and your life will be like a house built on a rock. Your journey will be joyful, because you will find many friends to journey with you.’”

The KCHS graduation ceremony included the recognition of numerous seniors.

Earning the school’s highest honor for students, the Sedes Sapientiae (“seat of wisdom”) Medal of Merit Award, were Mary Elizabeth Cox and Michael Stapleton.

Katie Holt and Eleanor Mancini received the Ashe-Bonnyman Scholarship. The Monsignor Francis D. Grady Citizenship Award went to Callie Grace Tucker. Charlie Kirk and Alyssa Lucci earned the Irish Achievement Award. The Helen J. and Joe Kennedy Memorial Scholarship Award was given to Tony Spezia. The Irish Parent Network Scholarship Award recipients were Davis Clem and Lincoln Murr.

Lincoln also earned recognition as a National Merit Finalist, an honor that went to about 300 Tennessee students, or less than 1 percent of seniors. Joining him as a National Merit Commended Scholar were Michael Stapleton, Melanie Cionfolo, Carly Slough, and Neeley Wilson.

The outstanding teacher of the year award went to Jessica Magers-Rankin.

The Sedes Sapientiae recipients also spoke at the graduation.

“I can’t speak for everyone, but I myself did not expect that the Thursday before spring break would be our last school day together,” Michael Stapleton said. “I know that I, and I’m sure that I’m not alone, have been quite aware over the past weeks of all the ‘lasts’ that we never got to celebrate, but even more so, I’ve been thinking of all the goodbyes that were never said. So I thought that tonight I might say a little about goodbye.

“While reflecting on the year, I realized that we never get to leave Knoxville Catholic. Mr. Sompayrac made sure of this in our very first meeting as freshmen. He told us there are really only two tests at KCHS graduation continued on page B3 TH E EA S T TEN N ES S EE C ATH OLI C

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Sacred Heart Cathedral School holds Baccalaureate Mass, graduation Sacred Heart Cathedral School in Knoxville awarded diplomas to 68 eighth-graders June 25 at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. Cathedral rector Father David Boettner presided with Father Martin Gladysz and Father Jhon Mario Garcia concelebrating and Deacon Walt Otey assisting. Father Boettner and principal Jake Rodgers are pictured with the grads. Award-winners during the graduation were as follows: Principal’s Award: Andrew Medlyn *** Sister Georgeanna Award: William Cole Monsignor Dolan Award: Alex Ewell and Shelby Gensheimer The Rachael McCollum Award (Home and School Award): Lauren Prince and Grayson Goodale Carol Christiansen Award: Matthew Brun *** Advanced Concepts Algebra: William Ainsworth Algebra 1B: Rose Boder ***Algebra: Theresa Grill *** Pre-Algebra: Matthew Brun and Savannah Sasinouski American History: Holly Davis, Jordan Nix, and Ben Stovall Honors Grammar: William Cole ***Language Arts: Jake LaNasa and Savannah Sasinouski English: Jacob Borja and Lisa Greene *** Literature: Emma Brown and Timothy Carter Religion: Andrew Medlyn, Sophia Hanks, and Gracie Guess Science: Josh Orlowski, William Cole, and Sarah Jane Nystrom Honors Spanish: Gracie Guess and Andrew Medlyn Spanish: Merveille Ingabireyimana and Mac Howley

Knoxville Catholic: the test of academics and the test of virtue. And if we had to choose just one, we were to become the most virtuous men and women that we could. And back then I nodded to myself and I said, ‘Well, that’s awesome,’ and then four years later I realized I had just gotten roped into taking a test for my entire life. Those two tests, and the way Knoxville Catholic approaches them, show implicitly what we have all just spent four years learning: union with God Himself is the purpose of life. Fail the latter test, and we lose everything.”

Mary Elizabeth Cox called her speech “my love letter to the KCHS class of 2020.”

“There’s a sense of camaraderie that we established very early on,” she said. “Of course, we are grateful for so much talent. We have Merit Scholars, Division I athletes, and Olympic hopefuls.

“We have some of the most talented artists you’ll ever see. . . . We have some amazing writers like Evan Ray and Katie Holt, musicians like Alex Dally and Carly Slough, performers like Abbie Orillion and Ella Trisler, who killed every performance alongside their spectacular theater company members. And we have amazing intellects like Lincoln Murr and Josh Borja, who I think we should all say a quick thank-you to for helping us out for the past few years.

“I think one of the hardest parts of missing out on these last few months was losing our time to say goodbyes. Goodbyes have always been a hard thing for me, because I’m more of a see-you-later kind of person. I believe that the weight in a goodbye is much too heavy a burden to put on a single word alone. It alludes to the close of a chapter rather than focusing on continuation.”

Bishop Stika delivered the closing remarks and prayer at the KCHS graduation. He opened by saying that some students present may earn plaudits later in life, well after graduation day.

“Throughout the school year, if you’re involved in theater or in sports or in other activities where TH E EAST T E N N E S S E E C AT HO L I C

people come to see you, a lot of times you get congratulated and applauded and saluted,” he said.

“But there are other folks, too, who maybe are a little bit more introverted than extraverted, or people who don’t participate in all kinds of activities, people who are maybe not as gifted—yet—in academics. Notice I said ‘yet.’ Or in sports.

“I wonder how many people if we surveyed the whole history of the world all of a sudden later in life blossomed and made a difference, that they discovered their potential, because we all discover our potential at different moments of our lives.”

Time cannot rob certain things, the bishop said.

“I just want to say to all of you: be kind, because that doesn’t disappear or fade with time,” he said. “Be charitable. Be forgiving. Be understanding. Make a difference in your own individual way. You might become famous, but even that’s a term, because if you have a family, your children will always consider you special and famous.

“Since I’ve been here—this is my 12th graduation—I’ve reminded people over and over and over again to be the face of Jesus. Whether you are a Catholic or a Christian who has attended this school, one of the things that we strive for is to actually believe that we are the face of Jesus. So often generations will say, ‘I hope I left the world a better place’ as a collective thing. Parents always want to see that, that their children enjoy a bit more than they themselves did.”

Bishop Stika noted “all the different activities that you’ve had, all of the fund drives and the food baskets, making this school proud throughout the world when you were on ESPN and received that compliment.

“Be kind and understanding and compassionate and loving, and don’t be afraid to discover more and more about yourself, because I am sure that in this group of graduates, you’ll make a difference. I know that. If you trust God, if you trust yourself, and if you are willing to

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KCHS graduation continued from page B2

Graduation speakers Mary Elizabeth Cox and Michael Stapleton received the “Sedes Sapientiae” Medal of Merit Award, and each spoke at the KCHS graduation. School president Dickie Sompayrac watches at left. open up to the invitation of God to make a difference, you’re going to excel. You’re going to blossom.

You’re going to discover more and more about yourself.

“This school has built upon the foundation of the schools that you have attended in the past. Whether you’ve been together since preschool, and it’s been a pleasure to know so many of you over the years as I’ve visited our grade schools and just gotten to know you. But life will change.”

At the Baccalaureate on June 18, Bishop Stika talked about the theme song for his high school class of 1975: Seals and Crofts’ “We May Never Pass This Way Again.”

“Nope, you’re not going to pass this way again, because it’s time for you to leave,” he said. “Come back and visit, but make sure when you leave, you remember with gratitude the teachers, the faculty, and the staff, no matter what they’ve done.

Remember them with gratitude because they have given a portion of their life for you, because people at this high school who teach, who are on the faculty, administration, and all the other activities, they’re here for you, not for themselves. Remember them with gratitude to this school.

“If anybody here becomes a billionaire, or even if you’ve got a few extra million, please remember Knoxville Catholic so we can continue the tradition that helped to shape you these last four years. Please

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know that I’m so proud of you.”

Bishop Stika said “Father David and I and Father Michael, we don’t have our own families and our own spouses, but I do know this: being a priest for 35 years and a bishop into my 12th, you can look with pride on people who you’ve gotten to know.

“It’s like we throw a pebble into a beautiful pond, a lake, and we see the ripples. I want to thank all of you, my sisters and brothers, graduating tonight. And to all the families, the parents, and all those who are watching at home, I say thank you, to this entire diocese, people who have made contributions having no connection at all to this high school. To the faculty and to the teachers and to the religious and to God himself, I say thank you.

So congratulations.

“Come back and visit often. Don’t forget to be ambassadors for this school with your sisters and brothers and parents and with people you’ve bumped into along the way.

And Our Lady, I pray, the patroness of the school, along with St. Patrick, always be with you and guide you. Don’t forget about God and Jesus and the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Because at the end of your life, you won’t be known for the diplomas and the awards maybe in theater or sports or whatever it might be, but, God willing, you’ll be remembered as a person of goodness who made a difference in the lives of other people. Congratulations.” n AUGUST 2, 2020 n B3

Parish notes St. Mary, Athens The parish recently welcomed Deacon Al Forsythe and wife Debbie, who will be serving St. Mary Parish.

St. Mary received a grant of $1,500 from the Pope Francis Charitable Trust Fund to help the parish assist the charities it helps throughout the year, including the Full Circle Medical Center for Women, the Good Faith Clinic, the Hope Center, and Coordinated Charities.

Parishioners took part recently in the Happy Feet program, which provides a pair of shoes, socks, a backpack, and school supplies for children of parish families in need.

Anniversaries: Jay and Patricia Ekiss (40), Bruce and Becki Nagel (25) First communicants: Lucas Hardin, Juley Garcia, Joselyne Hernandez Zavala, Valeria Angel Perez, Christina Garcia Saldana, Sheila Rodriguez, Michael Kreider, Karla Contreras, Johana Mata Rangel, Bianca Andablo

Pardue (15), Ian and Lani O’Connor (10), Michael and Marie King (5), Kevin and Tammy Thornton (5) Newcomers: Jerry and Carolyn Rosato; Josh, Ashney, Nora, Cybil, and Dominic Patoka Notre Dame, Greeneville The parish received a $5,000 grant from the Pope Francis Charitable Trust Fund. The announcement said the grant will allow the parish to “double our good works.”

Repair work is planned for the church office building and for the Ganz House.

Anniversaries: Landon and Marlene Wilds (66), Andy and Rita Chaloux (65), William and Shirley Kelly (61) Bud and Mary Noe (57), Roger and Barbara Violette (56), Anthony and Carole LaMarca (53), John and Connie Seehoffer (51), Kenneth and Patricia Fay (45), Danny and Susan Collins (40), James and Margaret Ayers (30), Dennis and Judy Knauss (30)

Confirmation: Maria Kreider

First communicants: Diana and Diego Vazquez

St. Stephen, Chattanooga

St. Dominic, Kingsport

Anniversaries: Warren and Juanita White (67), John and Lillian Yarosh (65), Kenneth and Ann Dale (59),Jerry and Nancy Kane (59), Joseph and Anita D’Andrea (57), Don and Anita Johnson (56), Whitten and Brenda Davis (53), Joseph and Betty Flis (45), Mark and Marina Germaine (45), Don and Betty Manes (40), Peter and Judy Nowotarski (35), Alfred and Evelyn Barnes (30), Christopher and Leigh Humkey (30), Scott and Mary Willie (25), Robbie and Cynthia Spangler (5)

The parish mourned the deaths of Stephen Massawe, father of associate pastor Father Emmanuel Massawe, and former parishioner Robert Thomas Beach, the architect in charge of designing the current St. Dominic Church.

Cumberland Mountain Deanery St. Francis of Assisi, Fairfield Glade Anniversaries: Steve and Mary Lou Knowles (73), Guy and Victoria Bretl (72), Milton and Regina Jerabek (71) St. Therese, Clinton The parish congratulated Deacon Dan Hosford, who also serves St. Joseph Parish in Norris, on the occasion of his 13th anniversary as a deacon June 9.

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Chattanooga Deanery

First communicants: Addisen Fain, Oliver Dale Burk, Juan Antonio Gonzalez Jr., Peter Davison, Cody Shane Hamilton Jr., Owen Ryan Leonberg, Richard Yael Lorenzo-Guzmán, Kaleb Bien Mai, Samantha Licup Taylor, Issabella Grace Torres, Alexandro Verdugo Perez, Rey Sahir Alvarado Díaz, Anneliese Barnette, Samuel Cayetano, Cate Langley Jenkins, Dulce Maria Luque Cayetano, Isael Maldonado García, Ivana Abigail Murillo Romero, Cassie Ann Slagle, Yamilex Abigail Mendoza Vega, Ronan Daniel Heninger, Harry Edward Kent Tebrock, Priya Joiner, Ella Ann Rager, Madalyn Mullins, Sophia Morales, Sofia Jane Ramey, Samuel Greer Tumbrello, Yaneli Cayetano, Yaretzi Betancourt Román St. Elizabeth, Elizabethton

Parishioners recently took part in a virtual spaghetti dinner. Don McCarthy and Stan Bieleski cooked up pasta sauce, and St. Therese members picked up the complimentary sauce and a package of spaghetti to make their own Italian night at home.

Five Rivers Deanery Holy Trinity, Jefferson City The parish recently received a grant from the Pope Francis Charitable Trust Fund that will go toward helping families in the community with meals, utility payments, or gas for their vehicles.

A Knights of Columbus fundraiser continues through October at Ultimate Shine Car Wash. Parishioners can choose their wash and enter fundraiser code 2148, then pay, and 30 percent of the sale automatically goes to the Knights. The code can be used at 11 area locations including Elizabethton but cannot be used with FastPass.

Anniversaries: Daniel and Teresa Bellar (60), Jos and Thea Tummers (55), Jeanie and Billy Walker (50), Leonard and Irene Whitehead (50), Jim and Pat Dobes (45), Mark and Lou Ann Mollish (40), Kent and Coleen Schneider (40), Mark and Vikki Sitter (35), Marc and Leann Clemons (25)

Smoky Mountain Deanery The Appalachian Outreach annual School Supply Drive took place from July 4-19. Parishioners donated pencils and pens, erasers, markers, crayons, and many other items, or they made a single donation of $25 that furnished one backpack full of supplies.

Holy Trinity held a collection in July for its twin parish in Haiti, St. Pierre de Bainet. Each January and July, the parish holds the collection with the goal of raising $2,500 each time.

In January of this year, the goal was exceeded as Holy Trinity sent its twin parish $3,277.

The parish congratulated Deacon Jim Prosak on the 13th anniversary of his ordination June 9, Deacon Jack Raymond on his 12th anniversary June 21, and Deacon David Oatney on his fourth anniversary June 11.

Anniversaries: Emery and Millie Faulkner (72), Ron and Anna Laarz (54), John and Anne Wharton (50), Bob and Pam Rowland (35), Charles and Shari Nash (25), Jeff and Stephanie B4 n AUGUST 2, 2020

Holy Ghost, Knoxville Charles Walden, parish music director and organist, retired at the end of July.

Mary C. Weaver became Holy Ghost’s new director of sacred music effective Aug. 1. Mrs. Weaver, a former editor of The East Tennessee Catholic, will have overall responsibilities for the music program and will lead both the English choir and the Latin schola. Mrs. Weaver has been director of the parish’s Pope Benedict XVI Schola for the last 12 years.

St. Henry Knights install sign at St. James the Apostle Knights of Columbus Council 8860 at St. Henry Parish in Rogersville is taking care of its neighbors in Sneedville at St. James the Apostle Church. In the parish’s more than 35-year history, it has not had a freestanding sign at the church. This fraternal year, the St. Henry council undertook the project of procuring a sign for St. James Church and gathering a team of Knights to install it. These efforts culminated July 18, when the team and sign traveled to St. James, where it was installed along the roadway.

From left in the bottom photo are Beverly Carmack, pastor Father Bart Okere, Stephen Derosia, Richard Loper, and Chuck McCann Not pictured is Bill Hewitt.

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The parish thanked Diane Dykas for donating handmade masks.

The parish congratulated Daniel Dunn, who was recently elected Grand Knight of Holy Ghost Knights of Columbus Council 16523.

The Knights are taking donations of used golf equipment to support the ministry of Inner City Slickers, an organization founded by former Three Dog Night drummer Michael McMeel. For more information, call Mike Wrinkle at 865-809-0552.

Parish notes continued on page B5

Women of St. Francis-Fairfield Glade make 800 masks Pastor Father Michael Woods, Janice Cahill, and Pam Brophy stand with 800 masks made by the women of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Fairfield Glade for the opening of church on May 30 and 31. Father Woods was appreciative and is doing all he can to make sure those attending Mass will have assurance that the interior is sanitized between each Mass and that the parish is limiting the numbers who can attend.

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

Sharon Vannucci is new parish council chairperson at St. Stephen Church

The second annual Call to Love Marriage Conference is set for Saturday, Aug. 8, in the Cathedral Hall at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus in Knoxville. Sister Anna Marie McGuan, RSM, director of the diocesan Office of Christian Formation, will offer three talks on Pope St. John Paul II’s Theology of the Body and how better understanding the teaching can enrich one’s marriage. The event will begin at noon and end with a 5 p.m.

Mass at the cathedral. Cost is $25 per couple (lunch included). Each couple will receive a discount coupon for the Paraclete Catholic Books and Gifts store. Online registration is available at https://tinyurl.com/DoK-Call-toLove-20. For more information, contact Deacon Al Forsythe at 865-806-1343 or aforsythe@dioknox.org.

The next Retrouvaille program, designed to help couples rebuild their marriages, is scheduled for Sept. 4-6.

Call 800-470-2230 or 615-523-0631, e-mail nrv3043@gmail.com, or visit www.HelpOurMarriage.com.

The 2020 Knoxville Diocesan Council of Catholic Women Convention has been postponed to Oct. 22-24. The 31st annual event is hosted by the Five Rivers Deanery CCW at the Best Western Plus Morristown Convention Center and at St. Patrick Church in Morristown. The convention theme is “Mary’s Fiat, Our Yes: A Vision for the Future.” Patricia Livingston, Sonja Corbitt, and Sister Anna Marie McGuan, RSM, will be the convention’s speakers. Early registration is $115, which includes meals. Deadline is Sept. 25.

Contact Susan Collins at 423-4702560 or scollins51@hotmail.com or Kathy DeAngelis at 423-277-6296 or krdeangelis@yahoo.com for details about hotel arrangements or about the convention. More information and registration forms may be found at http://

Father Michael Cummins of St. Dominic Church in Kingsport will lead a pilgrimage to Yellowstone National Park from Oct. 11-16. The days will consist of wildlife viewing, Mass, retreat talks, and prayer opportunities.

Cost is $1,995 (airfare not included).

For more information, contact the St. Dominic office at 423-288-8101 or stdomchurch@aol.com.

The Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul in Chattanooga has a new Mass schedule, with the recent addition of a 7 a.m. Sunday Mass in Spanish (ordinary form, spoken) and an 11:30 a.m. Sunday extraordinary-form Mass (Latin, sung). Also on the schedule are a 5:30 p.m. Saturday vigil (English ordinary form, spoken); a 9 a.m.

Sunday Mass (English ordinary form, sung); a 1:30 p.m. Sunday Mass in Spanish (ordinary form, sung); 7 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday Masses (English ordinary form, spoken); and noon Monday through Friday Masses (English ordinary form, spoken). For more information, visit www.stspeterandpaulbasilica.com/ masses.

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.

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haron Vannucci was appointed recently as the parish council chairperson at St. Stephen Church in Chattanooga.

She was the parish council secretary for the last five years and will continue her role as volunteer coordinator. She also is a past Ladies Auxiliary president for Knights of Columbus Council 6099.

“I was approached by [pastor] Father Manuel [Pérez] and the previous chairperson about submitting my name for this position,” Ms. Vannucci said.

“I discussed it with my family, prayed about it, and decided to accept. What an honor it is to be the first female to lead the parish coun-

Sharon Vannucci

cil. I’m very proud and appreciative that Father recognized my abilities and is confident that I can perform the work. I’m excited about this challenge.” n

St. Henry Knights install new officers Knights of Columbus St. Henry Council in Rogersville held its installation ceremony of new officers July 20 for the new fraternal year. Officers are Father Bart Okere, chaplain; Bill Hewitt, Grand Knight; Stephen Derosia, deputy Grand Knight; Terry Weaver, chancellor; Michael Opiela, financial secretary; Beverly Carmack, warden; Isaac Patel, recorder; Ronald Campbell, treasurer; Noah Mann, advocate; Robert McDaniel, James Egbert, and Richard Loper, trustees; Charles McCann, lecturer; Patrick Knopp, inside guard; and Forrest Wylie, outside guard.

Twenty-two youth confirmed at Holy Ghost Holy Ghost Parish celebrated confirmation July 19 as 22 youth received the sacrament at the 5 p.m. Mass. Above, Natalie Kate Harris is confirmed by pastor Father Bill McNeeley, who presided. With her is sponsor Regina Lovelace. Assisting Father McNeeley was Deacon Gordy Lowery.

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 3 p.m.

All services are in English. Call Father Richard Armstrong at 865-621-8499 or visit www.facebook.com/SaintThomasKnoxville/ for details. n

COURTESY OF ORVILLE FISHER

The 34th annual Shamrock Open, benefiting Knoxville Catholic High School’s academic programs, is set for Friday, Sept. 11, at Avalon Golf & Country Club in Lenoir City. Two flights are set for 8:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Fees are $125 per player and include 18 holes of golf, lunch, beverages, and goodie bags. Online sponsorship opportunities and team registration are available at knoxvillecatholic.com/ shamrock open. For more information, contact Megan Erpenbach, director of alumni and events, at 865-560-0509 or megan.erpenbach@knoxvillecatholic. com.

The next Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend is set for Aug. 28-30 in Atlanta. Apply online at GATN-wwme.org or call 678-242WWME. Also, WWME has a focused program for couples with a spouse in the military. Information can be found at www.foryourmilitarymarriage.com.

COURTESY OF NANCY POWELL

kdccw.org/conventions.html.

COURTESY OF BILL HEWITT

NOTE: Because of the coronavirus pandemic, numerous events around the diocese have been canceled or postponed. The events below were still scheduled to take place as of press time; however, those planning to attend/participate should contact the event organizers or visit their websites to make sure the event will be held.

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Calendar

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Immaculate Conception, Knoxville Father Ron Franco, CSP, announced that Father Charlie Donahue, CSP, former pastor of St. John XXIII Parish, will succeed him as pastor of IC on Jan. 1, 2021.

The parish congratulated Carter High School graduate Emory Chamberlain, grandson of Ron and Conny Chamberlain.

IC congratulated both of its deacons for their ordination anniversaries: Deacon Joe Stackhouse on his 13th anniversary June 9 and Deacon Doug Bitzer on his fourth anniversary June 11.

First communicants: Bronx Rivera, Trula Foster, Vivienne Harwell, Thomas Lopez Patino, Holden Sharp, Zayla Christof, Stella Hanna, Shiny Isezerano, Jade Randle, Catherine Roovers, Anthony Vejar, Andrew Calloway Confirmandi: Gavin Ralston, Alex Vejar, Tony Vejar, Adam Waxmonsky, Emma Bruner, Carter Muth, Carson Roovers, Coleman Sharp

ble study with associate pastor Father Bob O’Donnell, CSP. St. John XXIII has established a “Pandemic Emergency Fund” in part to assist the following groups: Smokey’s Food Pantry (University of Tennessee campus), FISH pantries, the diocesan Office of Hispanic Ministry, Catholic Charities of East Tennessee, Holy Ghost parish outreach, and the Volunteer Ministry Center, all of which work to meet food and housing needs.

St. Joseph the Worker, Madisonville The parish received a $3,000 grant from the Pope Francis Charitable Fund to support its Feed My Sheep project, which provides charitable outreach to meet the short-term needs of individuals and families who approach the church in times of significant needs.

The Knights of Columbus are conducting a yard sale, and all proceeds will go toward charities they support. Parishioners only will be able to preview and purchase items from noon to 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 10. The event will be open to the public from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12. The Knights are accepting a wide variety of items for the sale. For more information, call Ed Harless at 423884-2575 or Dan Callan at 884-6760.

St. John XXIII, Knoxville The parish is planning Tuesday night Zoom events at 7 p.m., including a BiTH E EAST T E N N E S S E E C AT HO L I C

Ultrasound machine purchased by Knights delivered to medical center Pictured above is the new ultrasound machine that Knights of Columbus Council 8396 at St. Mary Parish in Athens provided to Full Circle Medical Center [see the June 7 ETC]. From left are Orville Fisher; Father John Orr, pastor; Pat Schwartz, Council 8396 respect life representative; Julie Ladd, clinic director; Lou Dionne, Grand Knight; and Tim Brown, Tennessee Knights of Columbus respect life director.

COURTESY OF TERRY APARICIO

Women of the parish are taking part in a 33 Days to Morning Glory retreat, based on the book by Father Michael Gaitley, MIC, that began July 20.

Parishioners met June 25 at the grotto to say a rosary for peace and unity for the country. n

Holy Cross parishioners launch food drives Hispanics in Sevier County, unemployed and hungry during the pandemic this spring, needed a miracle. The parishioners of Holy Cross in Pigeon Forge decided to help the members of their parish as well as members of St. Mary in Gatlinburg. They started conducting food drives, with food donated from many different sources. On May 28, the parishioners had a double blessing. The diocesan Office of Hispanic Ministry connected them with the Ladies of Charity of Knoxville. The Ladies took over the entire distribution. They brought two trucks full of food that included nonperishables and fruits and vegetables. They brought many volunteers. They provided flyers in Spanish as published by the health department regarding protection against the virus, which they placed in every bag. The Ladies brought disposable masks as well for every bag. They also provided all the volunteers with lunch and water. Susan Unbehaun, executive director of the Ladies of Charity, said that this was the effort of many volunteers, whether they made monetary or goods donations, picked up food, packed the bags, loaded, or helped. Jim Moretti, from the Society of St Vincent de Paul at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Townsend, provided the group with a trailer full of Second Harvest Food Bank boxes left over from their food drive, as well as many cleaning supplies donated by the Townsend IGA store, which the Holy Cross parishioners donated to the Women’s Care Center in Sevierville.

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AUGUST 2, 2020 n B5

Picture time A Notre Dame High School graduate poses for the school photographer after receiving his diploma.

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Dame Parent Association presented the Heart of Notre Dame Award to Mr. Valadie and the Heart of the Irish Award to teacher Michael McCutcheon.

“I want to say thank you. It’s very humbling. I’m very, very grateful,” Mr. Valadie said.

Before the presentation of diplomas, Mr. Valadie made an announcement that ran contrary to similar ones made at that point in a graduation ceremony.

“During my education career, this happens to be the 30th graduation ceremony over which I’ve had the privilege to preside, and at each and every one, I have paused at this exact moment and respectfully requested that our audience please refrain from excessive cheering, but not today,” he said. “You are invited if not encouraged to cheer as loudly as you can for every one of the members of the class of 2020.”

After the diplomas were awarded, NDHS director of admissions Laura Goodhard (NDHS ’04) inducted the class of 2020 into the Notre Dame High School Alumni Association.

Mr. Valadie followed with closing remarks.

“First, to Bishop Stika, Dr. Prater, and the many, many supportive people throughout our diocese— their help and encouragement through this and every school year are and have always been most appreciated.

“Thank you to the behind-thescenes men and women who contribute so much to our senior ceremonies. As we made the transition to virtual ceremonies, and as we navigated the details of this setup, it did indeed take a village. I cannot thank them enough. The detail to which these folks pay attention—especially in ceremonies like these— makes all the difference. They make every effort to turn ‘special’ into ‘memorable.’”

To the Home & School Association, Mr. Valadie said that “though the year was cut short . . . many events did happen earlier in our school year that would not have happened were it not for the support of our parents who continually volunteer their time and energy and resources. Regardless of your role, we thank each and every one of you.”

The NDHS school president also thanked the parents of the class of 2020.

“I’ve been the parent of a senior— three times—and it’s a physical and emotional challenge in years when everything falls perfectly into place,” he said. “Not only did we not have everything, what we did have never fell perfectly into place.

So we thank you for all you have done. It is never lost on us that these students are your most prized possessions and that you entrusted us to be a part of their teenage years.

“I was almost tempted to say, ‘I sure wish we could do senior year again next year,’ but I’m not crazy and neither are you. So we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”

Mr. Valadie saluted the faculty of Notre Dame as well.

“Seven hours a day, five days a week, 10 months a year—we entrust our children to their care. They teach and they coach, they counsel and console,” he said. “Added to that, this year we asked faculty who had never taught remotely to educate students who had never learned that way. And we expected them to do it well.

“But today is not only about what

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celebrating the mass of homework assignments turned in or the years spent in school. We are celebrating the relationships we have with each other and what we worked toward that was bigger than ourselves. We find joy and meaning in relationships, passions, and even traditions that exist outside of space and time.”

Lauren said she was “originally . . . anticipating the excitement of graduating and all the new and interesting experiences and opportunities that lie ahead.

However, my feelings quickly changed to just being excited about us being together again.

It’s amazing how being in someone’s George Valadie presence is completely different than seeing them on a screen.

“Recently, I felt overwhelmed seeing some of you, because just by watching a friend laugh, smile, and talk about how they’ve been has made me realize how much I’ve missed them, despite the number of times that we’ve texted or called over the past few months. Needless to say, I’m so happy that we can come together as a class to celebrate today.

“I also dreaded this moment.

There have been times when, writing this speech, that I’ve been at a complete loss for words, because what do you say to a heartbroken class who just lost the end of their senior year? I was asked to write a farewell, yet I’m not completely certain if I’m ready to say goodbye. I’m not sure if most of us are. One thing I don’t want to do is stand here and talk about what has been lost, because we are way more than that.”

Mr. Valadie then presented several scholarships and awards.

“Sadly, this year will long be remembered as much by what our students missed as by what they accomplished—and one of those lost events was our annual Junior-Senior Prom,” he said. “Had we been able to have it, one of our traditions would have been the annual announcement of Mr. and Miss Notre Dame. Nominated by their fellow seniors and voted on by the student body, they would have been crowned during the evening’s festivities.

“Though that wasn’t able to happen, we did announce both honorees in our Virtual Senior Awards Night video, but I’d like to recognize them again. Miss Notre Dame is Saylor Brown, and Mr. Notre Dame is Jason Oliver.”

Mr. Valadie said the class of 2020 “has an impressive number of scholarship winners.”

“On the day we went to press [with the graduation program], this class of 80 students had accumulated just shy of 200 scholarship offers in excess of $6.5 million,” he said.

The school president then announced a number of awards.

The Christian Living Awards went to Sarah Eiselstein and Domenic Mariani. Mr. Mullin presented the Bubber Byrne Award, named after a football player from the class of 1936 who died of a blood disease in the fall of his senior year, to Jeffery Watkins.

The recipients of the Jim Phifer Spirit of Notre Dame Award and Scholarship were Glory Perry and Chandler Brady. The General Excellence Awards were presented to Lauren Stevens and Jason Oliver.

Mary Beth Welch of the Notre

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NDHS graduation continued from page B1

Scenes from a graduation Valedictorian Lauren Stevens (top) delivers her speech at the Notre Dame High School graduation. In the middle photo, schools superintendent Dr. Sedonna Prater stands with NDHS seniors before they enter the stadium. At bottom, those attending extend their hands in blessing over the seniors at the end of the ceremony. happened during those final three months but all that happened in the days and years before that. I ask everyone here to please join me in thanking them for their efforts this and every year.”

Mr. Valadie recognized two teachers who retired at the end of the school year after a combined 42 years of service to NDHS: Kathy Fisher and Pat Landry.

For the class of 2020, Mr. Valadie had special remarks.

“It’s been said that ‘You cannot call yourself the Fighting Irish if you’ve never had to fight for anything,’” he said. “Well, I guess you can check that off your list. The battle to get here has been real. And I don’t know about you, but it probably feels like we’ve been fighting the year 2020 itself. Think about it … a pandemic, the attack of the killer hornets, a crippling recession, unemployment numbers not seen in recent times, social unrest across the globe, the utter disappearance of so many things we had come to know, and now we’re getting ready for the Sahara Desert sandstorm, which is crossing the Atlantic Ocean to come for us … well of course it is …”

Mr. Valadie asked the seniors to recall the first school day of the year, “not the first day of class but the day before that when all of you gathered for your annual orientation session. We were gathered in the theater, which we didn’t even call the theater back then. That’s the day you first met Father Manning and Mrs. Swen­son, and of course that’s the day Mr. Mullin recited his annual list of things you need to do—and things it would be stupid to do.

“I don’t know if you also remember that I showed up to the meeting with two caps and two gowns and got folks to try them on. As these two pretended to walk across our stage and receive their diploma, I talked about author Stephen Covey’s famous book The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, in which he says we should begin any project by keeping the end in mind. We should live our lives that way, too.

“So with those two standing in front of you wearing caps and

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gowns, I asked you to begin your senior year with the end in mind. I asked you to leap ahead and imagine the conclusion of your senior year and envision your Baccalaureate and your graduation and all that you needed to do and all that needed to happen to get you there.”

No one that day could have foreseen the tumultuous year ahead.

“I’m willing to bet a year of Mr. Mullin’s salary that none of you— certainly not me—not one of us could imagine what was about to happen. And certainly none of us imagined being here on this day at this time,” Mr. Valadie said. “I mention it because it is my belief that you also cannot imagine all that will happen to you in the life you will lead when you walk out of this stadium.

“Some will lead lives of ease, but not everyone. Some will travel the globe, while some will spend their entire lives in a 100-mile radius.

All will experience the incredible goodness God has created as well as depths of great sadness. All of it comes with being alive—but as for the details, we couldn’t even imagine senior year: there’s no way to imagine all that lies in your future.”

The fourth quarter of the class of 2020’s senior year “will not be the toughest battle you ever wage—and on top of that, I don’t want it to be,” Mr. Valadie said. “The world needs you to be fighters, to be warriors, to fight for those who can’t . . . to fight for those without a voice . . . to fight against injustice . . . to fight for those who are exhausted from fights of their own . . . to fight for somebody else, anybody else but you . . .

“Though you cannot imagine it, you can still have goals, so I want you to go study what you want to study; I want you to prepare for the career of your dreams; I want you to make all the money you want to make and see all the sights you want to see, but along the way I also want you to figure out how you can use what you know to make your corner of the world a little bit better place for those who have need.

“If 2020 has shown us nothing else, it’s that the world needs brilliant people who will care about and NDHS graduation continued on page B7 TH E EA S T TEN N ES S EE C ATH OLI C

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Parish and community news

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attended Bishop Simon Bruté College Seminary in Indianapolis for four years and is going into his fourth year at PNAC. Diocesan chancellor Deacon Sean Smith called Mr. Donahue forward at the beginning of the ceremony, to which the future deacon answered, “Present.” Father Floersh then declared to the bishop that Mr. Donahue had been found worthy of ordination.

“We now choose this man, our brother, Matthew, for the order of the diaconate,” Bishop Stika said.

In his homily, the bishop reflected on a particular event in his life that shares the same date as Deacon Donahue’s ordination.

“Matthew, you and I share something very special on this day,” Bishop Stika said. “Sixty-three years ago today I was baptized by Monsignor Aloysius Wempe in the Church of St. Francis de Sales in St. Louis. But without that simple moment in my life . . . I would not be a deacon. I would not be a priest. I would not be a bishop.”

The bishop spoke of the simplicity of two Catholic rites.

“Confirmation—chrism on the forehead, and at an ordination—the laying on of hands. The simplicity of the laying on of hands,” he said.

“Very simple, ritualistic things, combined with words, yield something for now and all time.”

That something has another term for it, Bishop Stika said.

“Now if you’re an official kind of person, we call it an ontological change,” he said. “When you’re baptized, something changes in the very essence of a person. You can never be un-baptized, and in the Catholic Church really you can’t be re-baptized. You’re baptized for all time, confirmed for all time, and ordained a deacon or a priest or a bishop for all time.

“The simplicity of what we do today, Matthew, is something very profound, something very sacred, something very special. . . . When a person is ordained to the diaconate, to the priesthood, or to the episcopacy, whenever that happens, the lives that are touched, the sacraments that are celebrated, the moments of grace, continue on and on and on.”

The bishop spoke of the importance of celibacy and the Liturgy of the Hours in a transitional deacon’s life, “and my favorite: ‘do you promise respect and obedience to me and to my successors?’”

Afterward, Deacon Donahue reflected on his home parish.

“When we moved to Tennessee when I was a kid, this was the parish we came to,” he said. “I’ve grown up here since I was like 11 years old.”

Having the ordination at his home parish was special, he said.

“It’s a beautiful church to begin with, so I really appreciate that, and then just having the familiarity of the people and the comfort of being in my home, in a way, is a beautiful TH E EAST T E N N E S S E E C AT HO L I C

‘Very simple, ritualistic things’ Bishop Stika delivers the homily at the ordination Mass. thing,” he said.

The ordination, when it finally came for him, was altogether “beautiful, nervous, exciting, anxiety-inducing—it’s just a lovely, beautiful grace in the end and something like the bishop said: a gift, and then I have the gift of myself and the beautiful gift given to me,” Deacon Donahue said.

His ordination was delayed from June 29 after Bishop Stika was potentially exposed to someone with the coronavirus days before (the bishop tested negative for the virus). Without the virus, the ordination would have taken place in Italy in September, the new deacon said.

Deacon Donahue said he will be specializing in moral theology as he returns to PNAC. Studying in Rome is “a great blessing,” he said.

“There are so many ways in which it’s a beautiful thing,” he said. “It can be a challenge in many respects, but it’s a gift that God has blessed me with and something that I thoroughly enjoy.”

He was set to give his first homily on the day after his ordination.

“There’s a thanksgiving Mass here at St. John Neumann at 10:30, so I’ll be doing that homily there,” he said, adding that he would be a little nervous preaching for the first time.

“But I’ve been practicing it, so I think I’m confident it’ll be good—I hope.”

At the ordination, parents Neil and Lydia Donahue and three younger sisters were among the ordinand’s family helping to fill up one pew.

His oldest sister, Brianna, was unable to attend; she is a religious in Alton, Ill., with the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George.

“I’ve always had a big family growing up,” Deacon Donahue said. “We’ve always been very close to each other, and so to have them all here was a wonderful blessing.

I’m so appreciative of everything they’ve done and sacrificed to help me get to where I am. I know [Brianna] was praying for me, but unfortunately in the circumstances she couldn’t make it down.

Next up for Deacon Donahue, if the coronavirus situation allows, is a return to his studies.

“We expect right now to return to seminary in September, but obviously COVID can make that kind of difficult, but we’re hopeful that things will be as normal as possible and that the seminary will be able to function and that school will be open, even if it’s online,” he said. n

Couples at St. Francis of Assisi in Fairfield Glade celebrate anniversaries St. Francis of Assisi Parish in n Fairfield Glade congratulates Joseph and Mildred Walasinski, who celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary July 1.

They were married at Immaculate Conception Church in Toledo, Ohio.

Their children are Joseph Walasinski III, deceased; Mary Kroeger, deceased; Michael of Cleveland, Tenn.; Robert of South Bend, Ind.; and Cynthia Warren of South Bend. The Walasinskis also have 13 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.

Mr. Walasinski retired from AM General in South Bend, and Mrs. Walasinski retired from Goldblatt’s Department Store in South Bend.

They moved to the Glade in 1989.

Mr. Walasinski is an usher at St. Francis of Assisi Church, and Mrs. Walasinski has volunteered for the Council of Catholic Women, playing bingo for the people at Wynd Ridge Nursing Home for 28 years, and also became the chair for the bingo games for eight years.

Because of COVID-19, a family gathering in South Bend was canceled; however, some of the children planned to be with the couple in Fairfield Glade on July 1.

The parishioners of St. Francis of n Assisi in Fairfield Glade congratulate Dave and MaraLee Rivard,

who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary July 11.

They were married at Sacred Heart Church in Baudette, Mich.

Their daughters are Kelly Donnelly of Marietta, Ga., and Kristie Bartels of Fort Mills, S.C., and they have three grandchildren.

Mr. Rivard retired from the U.S. Air Force and Mrs. Rivard from teaching. They moved to the Glade in 2009. A family celebration is planned.

St. Francis of Assisi Parish in n Fairfield Glade congratulates Roger and Suzette Hulgan, who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary July 18.

They were married at St. Fredrick-Nativity of the Lord Church in Cudahy, Wis. Their children are Lynnette of Watertown, Wis., and Scott of Salem, Mass.

Mr. Hulgan retired from Solution Connection (his own business) and Mrs. Hulgan from the airlines, and they moved to the Glade in 2013.

St. Francis of Assisi Parish in n Fairfield Glade congratulates Don and Cheryl Chrobot, who are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary Aug. 22.

They were married at St. Adalbert Church in South Bend, Ind., with Father Leonard Chrobot officiating. n

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Ordination moments Newly ordained Deacon Matthew Donahue (top) is vested by Father Christopher Floersh. At bottom left, the new deacon receives the Book of the Gospels from Bishop Richard F. Stika, with Cardinal Justin Rigali and Deacon Sean Smith looking on. At bottom right, the bishop gives the Precious Blood to Deacon Donahue.

Sacred Heart Knights elect new officers Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Knights of Columbus Council 5207 met July 6 to elect new officers. Chris Manning (second from left) was elected Grand Knight. Also elected were Gerard Jabaley, deputy Grand Knight; Paul Duncan, financial secretary; Jess Shepard, treasurer; Drew Antunes, recorder; Phil LaNasa, advocate; Tim Walker, warden; John Meyer, lecturer; Chester Pun-Chen, chancellor; Jose Veles, inside guard; and Tom Quinones, outside guard. Committee chairs appointed by new Grand Knight Mr. Manning are Bobby Brendlinger, community; Chris Zhang, faith; Barry Walsh, life; Rob Sanders, retention; and Chad Hernandez, public relations/communications.

Up, up, and away Notre Dame High School graduates fling their caps into the air.

NDHS graduation continued from page B6

care for all of God’s creatures and all of God’s creation.”

Mr. Valadie closed by asking the class of 2020 to return to NDHS in the future.

“Lastly, I can’t let you go without also inviting you back. Looks like a lot of colleges aren’t going to have a fall break, so maybe you make some plans to come see us for our traditional Homecoming celebration, where we will enjoy the oldest of Notre Dame traditions: you will tell us lies about how well you’re doing, and we will tell you lies about how much we miss you.

“Lastly, thank you for every good thing you have done for our school and especially for the classy way

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you have handled the spring of 2020. God bless you all.”

For the final blessing, Mr. Valadie invited everyone in attendance to stand and extend his or her right arm over the seniors as they prayed: “May the God who is eagle fly above you to protect you. May the God who is light go before you in times of darkness. May the God who is rock comfort you in times of trouble. May the God who is laughter go between you and make you one. May the God who is love go within you to make you a treasure of life. And may the God who is life be with you through all eternity.

Amen.” n AUGUST 2, 2020 n B7

Praying for Perspective

by George Valadie

In a cupcake store: ‘how can people act that way?’

A 19-year-old employee has to put up with angry reactions to mask-wearing requirements

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he’s just a kid. I don’t mean that as any sort of insult, not in any way. In fact, she’s as mature a young lady as I’ve known.

I’d trust her with my car, my keys, or my kids.

The more telling tale is that my wife trusts her with our pups, which should tell you all you need to know about this particular teen.

But she is just 19. True, old enough to drive and vote, old enough to marry and be a mom.

And while some females that age have done all those things and more, she’s not there yet.

She’s just a kid. And she ought to get to be one.

Soon to start her second year of college, she’s doing what many young people her age have done, trying to make a few bucks, holding down multiple summer jobs while also taking a couple of summer courses to get ahead. What free time she has gets spent at the lake with her friends.

She comes to mind because one of those jobs she has is in retail.

She works in a cupcake store.

I know it’s not Disney World or anything, you can’t exactly call it the happiest place on earth, but I mean, really, who doesn’t love a good cupcake, not to mention a store full of nothing but?

It sure seems like it’s the kind of store where smiles should abound.

Until recently.

“When we first got to open back up after having been shut down, people were so nice. They were excited to get out. People seemed really happy to be anywhere but cooped up in their homes.”

Thankfully, and prayerfully, she and her co-workers have avoided the violence that this same scenario has evoked in other locales. Arguments that became fights. Guns pulled, shots fired, lives ended. What in the world is going on?

But alas, the numbers didn’t do what we hoped the numbers would do. And as a response to the resulting pandemic backslide, our local authorities issued a recent decree that masks would be required throughout the county.

Making the job she once enjoyed not nearly as much fun anymore.

“I’m sorry, ma’am, but do you have a mask?”

“No!” “That’s OK, we have one we can give you.”

“No!” “I’m sorry, but it’s a policy.

Everyone has to wear a mask to come in.”

“You can’t tell me what to do.

My body, my choice!”

“I know it’s an inconvenience, but it’s our policy” “I’m not wearing one and you can’t make me.”

Things never got any better—not her language, not her behavior, and certainly not the ambience of the store for others waiting their turn.

Apparently, she’s not been the only such customer. It’s a small specialty store, limited square footage, and like many such shops, there’s a need to limit the number of customers that can enter at any one time.

“I’m sorry, sir, but we can only have four customers in here at

once.”

“What?! There’s six of us!”

“I understand, but it’s small store. We’re happy to provide menus and then bring whatever you’d like outside.”

“That’s insane. We’re not buying a thing!”

She’s a former student; I’m her former principal; she admitted she was giving me the cleaned-up version of what her days have really been like.

“I can’t tell you how mean people have been. One guy acted like he was going to charge behind the counter because we wouldn’t serve him. I don’t make the rules.

I didn’t create the virus. I’m just trying to serve some people some cupcakes.

“But they don’t care. Not about us. Not about other customers. I don’t get it.”

“How can people act that way?”

Can you believe it? She’s just a kid! But truthfully, what difference should that make?

“How can people act that way?”

Sadly, I had no good answer.

Not sure there is one.

Thankfully, and prayerfully, she and her co-workers have avoided the violence that this same scenario has evoked in other locales.

Arguments that became fights.

Guns pulled, shots fired, lives ended. What in the world is going on?

No good answer for that either.

I relate her story because here’s the thing: we’re getting ready to restart school, and on any given day we will find ourselves hosting a sporting event of one sort or

another.

And it’s at that moment we will become exactly like her store—requiring visitors we don’t know to wear a mask they may not like.

Our state athletic association recently released the rules and regulations we must implement on site. I support them. After all, on most days, I’m the oldest guy in the building living life in the pretty-darn-susceptible category.

If we can make people safer, count me in.

All fans must have their temperatures taken; all fans must wear masks; all fans must sit in socially distanced seats. But we won’t know all the fans.

Our students will get it, our moms and dads will get it. It’s not that they’ll all love it, I don’t. But they’ll get it. Everyone else? Well, it’s her tragic tale of life in a cupcake store that gives me pause.

Like most high schools, our entrance gates are traditionally manned by volunteers. Moms and dads willing to give their time, often missing their kids in action, donating a service to benefit our school. We couldn’t make it without them.

Will they have to endure what she has experienced? How do we protect them from such? How do we save them from such?

No, they’re not kids. I’m just not sure it will make a difference.

How can people act that way?

Dear God—You’re good at miracles; we seem to be in need. Soon!

Amen. ■ George Valadie is president of Notre Dame High School in Chattanooga.

PAM RHOADES

Catholic schools

DAVIS CLEM

PAM RHOADES

PAM RHOADES

KCHS theater students perform ‘Little Women—In Concert’ The Knoxville Catholic High School Theater Co. performed Little Women—In Concert on July 16 and 17 at the Mabry-Hazen House in Knoxville. Because the first date sold out, the company added a second performance.

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

Scripture and the Spiritual Life

by Sister Anna Marie McGuan, RSM

Examining the Books of Moses—the Pentateuch The first five books of the Old Testament are sacred in both the Jewish and the Christian traditions

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aving given a preliminary sketch of the sections of the Old Testament, in this article I expand on the Books of Moses, also known as the Pentateuch or the Torah. These first five books of the Old Testament, Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy, are sacred in both the Jewish and the Christian traditions.

They hold a preeminent place in the Old Testament because of their teachings and stories, as well as the personages they feature. They have also helped shape morality, religious observance, culture, and art across centuries and empires. Each book of the Torah has unique features and contributes distinctively to this first section of the Bible.

The first book, Genesis, takes its name from the Greek word for generation or origin. In Hebrew it is called bere’šît, which means “in the beginning”—the first words of the book. The first 11 chapters focus on teaching the truth about people and the world as created by God. They also detail the entrance of sin into the world and the effects it has on human beings, their relationship to God, and their relationship to one another. In Chapter 12, “salvation history...” as it is called, begins as God calls Abraham to go to a land that he does not know. Abraham responds in faith, and God promises to make Abraham a great nation,

Hear more from Sister Anna Marie on her podcast, Scripture and the Spiritual Life. blessing all the people of the earth in him. The rest of Genesis moves through the story of Abraham, then his son, Isaac, followed by Isaac’s two sons, Jacob and Esau. The story of Joseph and his brothers finishes the book of Genesis. In this memorable saga, Joseph saves Egypt and the surrounding lands from famine and, in so doing, saves his family in Canaan from starvation and destruction. The entire family moves down to Egypt and dwells there.

The book of Exodus picks up generations later. The pharaoh of Egypt does not know Joseph and his story, even though the Hebrews have become quite numerous. Fearing an insurrection, the pharaoh reduces them to slave labor. Moses is then sent by God to converse with Pharaoh and secure the people’s liberation from slavery. Their deliverance happens after a dramatic 10-plague duel which can be understood as divine warfare. The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob does battle with the gods of the Egyptians, represented by various natural elements and animals. One by one, the Lord defeats the gods of Egypt. Finally, Pharaoh sends the people away, but then changes his mind, causing the

Thoughts and Prayers for the Faithful

famous scene of the crossing of the Red Sea. The waters miraculously opened up, allowing the Hebrews to pass through, but then collapsed upon the Egyptian forces to their utter ruin and destruction.

In their newfound freedom, the descendants of Abraham, under the guidance of Moses, go to Mount Sinai, where the covenant between God and the Israelites was formally established. From this covenant we still have the Ten Commandments and the foundation of morality.

The rest of the book of Exodus includes details about the covenant, the building of the tabernacle, and the Ark of the Covenant. There is also an episode that describes the defection of the Israelites from the covenant; Moses intercedes for the people, and God reestablishes their bond with him.

The book of Leviticus is at the center of the Torah. This emphasizes its importance—the center of a section or of a book is a sign of its value. This makes sense, because Leviticus explains the laws of sacrifice, along with the distinctions between what is profane and what is holy. “Profane” does not mean “bad”—in this context it only means that such an object cannot mediate God’s presence and holiness. Leviticus provides the framework for the people to live the covenant, with all of its proper sacrifices, in order to

truly become God’s holy people.

The book of Numbers describes the journeying of the Hebrew people in the wilderness, as they move from Mount Sinai to the edge of the land of Canaan, and then have to journey in the desert for another 40 years. This time of purification has often been interpreted as an analogy of the spiritual life. Each person must go through life as a preparation and a purification, a journey of faith, hope, and love.

The last book of the Pentateuch is Deuteronomy. The name of this books means “second law” and is a series of discourses given by Moses to the people of Israel on the plains of Moab. At this point, they have finished the 40 years’ journey and are preparing to enter into the land of Canaan. Moses prepares the people by recalling for them their history up to this point in time; he also reminds them of their obligations and God’s blessings upon them. He warns them, too, about the consequences of infidelity. Thus, the Pentateuch closes with a sense of foreboding. God is always faithful… but will the people be so as well? ■ Sister Anna Marie McGuan, RSM, is the director of the Office of Christian Formation for the Diocese of Knoxville. She also writes for SimplyCatholic.com, a ministry of Our Sunday Visitor. This column originally appeared at SimplyCatholic.com.

by Bob Hunt

The Good Samaritan story, for our current times Tensions between the Jews and the Samaritans can be compared with today's social upheaval

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hese past several weeks, since the killing of George Floyd, our nation has been wracked with protests and social upheaval we have not seen in decades. Many have lost their lives in the civil unrest. Many have lost their livelihoods. Churches have been vandalized, their statues destroyed and buildings attacked.

When will it end? I’m not sure.

The few calls for unity and dialogue notwithstanding, there are too many people in important positions who have no desire for the tensions and divisions to end, because they hope to exploit the tensions and divisions for their personal political power.

This is where we come in, and by “we” I mean the American people.

We are the people who go to our jobs every day, who interact with each other every day, who invest our time, talent, and treasure in our places of worship and in our communities and in our families. We cannot take our cues from our leaders, right or left. They are too focused on themselves. It’s up to us, then, to live lives worthy of God, and to consciously treat our neighbor with the love to which God calls us.

Who is our neighbor? When Jesus was asked this question, He

responded by telling the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:29-37).

Today, we lose much of the impact of this story because we don’t understand the context in which it was first told.

Jesus told the story of the Good Samaritan to a group of Jews living in Judea. The tensions that existed between Jews and Samaritans are not unlike those that exist in our country today. According to John McKenzie’s Dictionary of the Bible, “To the Jews, the Samaritans were a heretical and schismatic group of spurious worshipers of the God of Israel, who were detested even more than pagans.” When the Jews who returned from exile in Persia began rebuilding the Temple, the Samaritans at first offered to join in the construction. Having been turned away by the Jews, however, they responded by harassing the builders, attempting to delay or stop the building, and even tried to assassinate Nehemiah. The Samaritans built a competing temple on Mount Gerizim (John 4:19-24), solidifying the schism between the two groups.

Indeed, the hatred between Jew and Samaritan was so intense that Jews would not even travel through Samaria. You can imagine the eye-

brows and anger raised toward Jesus when he chose to ignore this practice, even choosing to converse with a Samaritan woman!

Jesus told the story of the Good Samaritan in response to the question “Who is my neighbor?” proposed by a scholar of the law. This was a man steeped in the Mosaic tradition, who would have been in tune with the differences between Jew and Samaritan, and who would have regarded the Samaritans as heretics who had found disfavor with God. Even still, Jesus didn’t hesitate to make the protagonist of his story a Samaritan, even over and against a Jewish priest and a Levite.

To his credit, the scholar could not deny that it was the Samaritan who acted as a neighbor to the man who was beaten and robbed.

In order to understand the full impact of Jesus’ story, it might be necessary to make it more contemporary. The circumstances were no less controversial than were Jesus telling this story today to a group of Trump supporters where the protagonist is a Black Lives Matter activist, or were Jesus telling this story to a group of Black Lives Matter activists where the protagonist is a man in a red MAGA hat. The point is, there is no

room for hate for those who hope in Jesus, even hatred of one’s enemies.

“Love your enemies” is not a slogan for Jesus. If we cannot love our enemies, we are not capable of loving and following Jesus, for Jesus loved and prayed for those who nailed Him to the cross.

How radical is the love of Jesus and the mercy of God! So, while I’m saddened and disappointed that too many of our political and social leaders have chosen to exploit the tensions in our country rather than try to heal them, I never really looked to them to deal effectively with these horrors.

The only thing that will heal these wounds is the love of Jesus lived out in the ordinary circumstances of daily living by ordinary people. It will mean acting justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God (Micah 6:8). It will mean our forgiving those who have hurt us, and our hearts being converted to loving those we now hate.

Be Christ for all. Bring Christ to all. See Christ in all. ■

Daily readings

Friday, Aug. 7: Nahum 2:1, 3 and 3:1-3, 6-7; Deuteronomy 32:35-36, 39, 41; Matthew 16:24-28 Saturday, Aug. 8: Memorial of St. Dominic, priest, Habakkuk 1:12–2:4; Psalm 9:8-13; Matthew 17:14-20 Sunday, Aug. 9: 1 Kings 19:9, 11-13; Psalm 85:9-14; Romans 9:1-5; Matthew 14:22-33 Monday, Aug. 10: Feast of St. Lawrence, deacon and martyr, 2 Corinthians 9:6-10; Psalm 112:1-2, 5-9; John 12:24-26 Tuesday, Aug. 11: Memorial of St. Clare, virgin, Ezekiel 2:8–3:4; Psalm 119:14, 24, 72, 103, 111, 131; Matthew 18:1-5, 10, 12-14 Wednesday, Aug. 12: Ezekiel 9:1-7 and 10:18-22; Psalm 113:1-6; Matthew 18:15-20 Thursday, Aug. 13: Ezekiel 12:112; Psalm 78:56-59, 61-62; Matthew 18:21–19:1

Friday, Aug. 14: Memorial of St. Maximilian Kolbe, priest and martyr, Ezekiel 16:1-15, 60, 63; Isaiah 12:2-6; Matthew 19:3-12; vigil for the Assumption, 1 Chronicles 15:3-4, 1516 and 16:1-2; Psalm 132:6-7, 9-10, 13-14; 1 Corinthians 15:54-57; Luke 11:27-28 Saturday, Aug. 15: Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Revelation 11:19 and 12:1-6, 10; Psalm 45:10-12, 16; 1 Corinthians 15:20-27; Luke 1:39-56 Sunday, Aug. 16: Isaiah 56:1, 6-7; Psalm 67:2-3, 5-6, 8; Romans 11:1315, 29-32; Matthew 15:21-28 Monday, Aug. 17: Ezekiel 24:15-23; Deuteronomy 32:18-21; Matthew 19:16-22 Tuesday, Aug. 18: Ezekiel 28:1-10; Deuteronomy 32:26-28, 30, 35-36; Matthew 19:23-30 Wednesday, Aug. 19: Ezekiel 34:1-

11; Psalm 23:1-6; Matthew 20:1-16 Thursday, Aug. 20: Memorial of St. Bernard, abbot and doctor of the Church, Ezekiel 36:23-28; Psalm 51:12-15, 18-19; Matthew 22:1-14 Friday, Aug. 21: Memorial of St. Pius X, pope, Ezekiel 37:1-14; Psalm 107:2-9; Matthew 22:34-40 Saturday, Aug. 22: Memorial of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Ezekiel 43:1-7; Psalm 85:9-14; Matthew 23:1-12; readings for the Queenship memorial, Isaiah 9:1-6; Psalm 113:1-8; Luke 1:26-38 Sunday, Aug. 23: Isaiah 22:19-23; Psalm 138:1-3, 6, 8; Romans 11:33-36; Matthew 16:13-20 Monday, Aug. 24: Feast of St. Bartholomew, apostle, Revelation 21:9-14; Psalm 145:10-13, 17-18; John 1:45-51 Tuesday, Aug. 25: 2 Thessalonians

Saturday, Aug. 1: Memorial of St. Alphonsus Liguori, bishop and doctor of the Church, Jeremiah 26:1116, 24; Psalm 69:15-16, 30-31, 33-34; Matthew 14:1-12 Sunday, Aug. 2: Isaiah 55:1-3; Psalm 145:8-9, 15-18; Romans 8:35, 37-39; Matthew 14:13-21 Monday, Aug. 3: Jeremiah 28:1-17; Psalm 119:29, 43, 79-80, 95, 102; Matthew 14:22-36 Tuesday, Aug. 4: Memorial of St. John Vianney, priest, Jeremiah 30:12, 12-15, 18-22; Psalm 102:16-21, 29, 22-23; Matthew 14:22-36 Wednesday, Aug. 5: Jeremiah 31:1-7; Jeremiah 31:10-13; Matthew 15:21-28 Thursday, Aug. 6: Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord, Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14; Psalm 97:1-2, 5-6, 9; 2 Peter 1:16-19; Matthew 17:1-9 TH E EAST T E N N E S S E E C AT HO L I C

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Bob Hunt is a husband, father, and parishioner at All Saints Church in Knoxville and is a candidate for the permanent diaconate.

Readings continued on page B10 AUGUST 2, 2020 n B9

Catholic schools

KCHS cross country and track runner receives Knoxville Hall of Fame award

GEORGE VALADIE

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RANDI NELSON

Ready for his close-up Notre Dame High School president George Valadie takes a selfie during a recent protocol planning meeting. With him (from left) are Father Christopher Manning, Laura Goodhard, Martha Wicks, Kathy Martin, Nancy Valadie, Becky Light, Danny Reardon, and Katie Woodard.

Callie Grace Tucker

cross country and track in 2018 and 2019. She was nominated for the Knoxville News Sentinel’s PrepXtra runner of the year in the same two seasons. She was the Knoxville Interscholastic League’s cross country and track champion for 2018 and 2019. She won the Music City Invitational indoor title in the 2-mile and finished runner-up in the 1-mile.

She is a nationally ranked distance runner.

In academics, Callie compiled a 4.45 GPA in her senior year. She made the President’s List for two years and the honor roll all four years. She is a member of Mu Alpha Theta, the Spanish Honor Society, and the National Honor Society, and she has been named a WBIR-TV Scholar of the Week.

She volunteers as a coach of youth track for the Knoxville Youth Athletics summer program and is an active volunteer at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital in Knoxville.

She is a member of the Youth Leadership Knoxville class of 2018 and has served as president of the “IrishThon” dance marathon to raise money for Children’s Hospital.

Callie has signed with the University of Tennessee in cross country and track. n

BILL BREWER (2)

COURTESY OF LAURA GOODHARD (2)

KCHS cheerleaders hold bonding day The Knoxville Catholic High School cheerleading team held a bonding day for new and returning cheerleaders and coaches July 16 at KCHS. Tryouts were online, so this marked the team members’ first time meeting in person. The day consisted of having ice cream and ice pops, tie-dyeing T-shirts, and playing social games.

ecent Knoxville Catholic High School graduate and running standout Callie Grace Tucker received the 2020 female High School Athlete of the Year Award from the Greater Knoxville Sports Hall of Fame.

She joins KCHS runner Jake Renfree, the 2019 boys winner, in earning the honor. Callie received the award in a virtual ceremony July 21.

Callie has received numerous accolades for her performances in cross country, indoor track, and outdoor track. She was All-State in cross country in 2016, 2018, and 2019, winning an individual crosscountry state championship in 2019, the first individual girls state title for KCHS since 2011.

In 2019, she was also named to the All-South Team at the Footlocker Cross Country Championship race.

For indoor track, Callie was AllState in the 2-mile in 2018, 2019, and 2020. She also qualified for the New Balance Nationals Indoor in New York City in the 5K championship race in 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020.

In addition, she qualified in 2019 for the New Balance Nationals Indoor meet in New York City in the 2-mile Emerging Elite race.

During the 2020 indoor season, Callie broke the KCHS record for the 1-mile (4 minutes, 57 seconds) and the 800-meter run (2:20). She ran her personal best in the 3,200 run in March 2020 with a 10:37 mark, breaking the school record and currently ranking fifth in the nation by U.S. Milesplit.com.

In 2018, Callie won a state championship as a member of the 3,200 relay team in the large school division, which posted a 9:19 mark and set a school record. This team was also named the No. 1 relay team in Tennessee in the last decade.

Callie was named All-Metro in

Sacred Heart priests bless cathedral school Father David Boettner (top photo, second from left), rector of the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, and associate pastor Father Martin Gladysz, conducted a blessing of Sacred Heart Cathedral School on June 19. With them in the top photo are principal Jake Rodgers and director of parish operations Mary Mac Wilson.

Readings continued from page B9

Notre Dame students assist with food pantry In partnership with the Food Bank of Greater Chattanooga and Clifton Hills Elementary School, the world language honor societies at Notre Dame High School assist with their community food pantry each month. After a hiatus because of coronavirus, students were eager to jump back into service in June. In the top photo (from left) are Eric Alvarado, Maia Delaney, Nick Polickoski, Charlotte Mahn, Zach Naessig, Gwen Jimenez, Samantha Crisp, and Emmeline Crisp. In the bottom photo, Zach and Eric assist in loading food items into cars.

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2:1-3, 14-17; Psalm 96:10-13; Matthew 23:23-26 Wednesday, Aug. 26: 2 Thessalonians 3:6-10, 16-18; Psalm 128:1-2, 4-5; Matthew 23:27-32 Thursday, Aug. 27: Memorial of St. Monica, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9; Psalm 145:2-7; Matthew 24:42-51 Friday, Aug. 28: Memorial of St. Augustine, bishop and doctor of the Church, 1 Corinthians 1:17-25;

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Psalm 33:1-2, 4-5, 10-11 Saturday, Aug. 29: Memorial of the Passion of St. John the Baptist, 1 Corinthians 1:26-31; Psalm 33:12-13, 18-21; Mark 6:17-29 Sunday, Aug. 30: Jeremiah 20:7-9; Psalm 63:2-6, 8-9; Romans 12:1-2; Matthew 16:21-27 Monday, Aug. 31: 1 Corinthians 2:1-5; Psalm 119:97-102; Luke 4:1630 n TH E EA S T TEN N ES S EE C ATH OLI C