Sept. 3, 2023, ET Catholic, B section

All Saints’ Diaz leading Pellissippi soccer team

She’s ‘grateful for the opportunity’ as she becomes the first head coach for the new college program

Mariana Diaz Lopez of All Saints Parish in Knoxville is making an impact in local sports as the first women’s soccer head coach at Pellissippi State Community College as the school launches an athletics program this fall.

Ms. Diaz played Division II soccer at Lincoln Memorial University and was a five-year captain there. She most recently served as an assistant women’s soccer coach at LMU and graduated with a master’s degree in business administration in May.

She describes her selection as the Pellissippi coach as a “blessing.”

“I am very grateful for the opportunity to lead and design this program and to have the support of our administration,” she said. “This project is going to elevate and diversify the collegiate experience for all student athletes in our community. I am so excited for the future, and I am so motivated to work day to day to construct an empowering and elevating culture for our student athletes.”

Pellissippi State announced last November that it is adding competitive athletics. The school also has men’s soccer, women’s volleyball, men’s golf, and men’s and women’s cross country and halfmarathon teams.

“Mariana is an exciting coach with experience in NCAA Division II soccer,” said Pellissippi State athletics director Brock Evans. “She will bring a passionate and distinctive brand of soccer to the pitch. Mariana has a great proficiency in coaching the technical side of the game, and she will be able to develop a high-level technical team with a drive to compete at the highest level.”

Pellissippi was accepted into the National Junior College Athletic

Association in October 2022.

“I think as a JUCO program we have the responsibility to help develop our student athletes at the individual level in a holistic approach,” Ms. Diaz said. “This means creating an environment where the individual is challenged to be the best version of themselves in the classroom, field, weight room, and in the community, to be able to propel them to their next steps in their career. I believe that this is the school’s mission as well, so being able to adopt those core principles to how I want to evolve our program just goes hand in hand.”

Her first Panthers team has 23 players on the roster with “a bit of diversity on the squad,” Ms. Diaz said.

“We are made up of mostly local Knoxville players. Some are Mexican American. We have a player from South Korea and three players from California,” she said. “I am from Mexico, and I am fortunate to have a handful who speak Spanish, which elevates the mix. We are very happy with the direction of the program and the buy-in from our players. We are growing day to day. The girls have embraced themselves and this opportunity.”

In a recent Pellissippi State news release, Ms. Diaz said she is “looking for kids with great character who want to embrace the opportunity to start at Pellissippi State, who see this as a time of growth and are ready to work hard.”

“Good people—it’s the key to success,” she said. “Being in an environment with people who have desire and accountability will create grit and a strong team. This opportunity and this program will embrace character.”

Ms. Diaz is a lifelong soccer player who grew up in Knoxville

and in 2017 graduated from Halls High School, where she played for the Lady Red Devils soccer team for two years. At age 15, she spent time at Dave Goldschmitt’s Inter Futbol Academy.

“I am very passionate. I think that’s something that the girls saw from day one. I love the game. I love the dynamic of teamwork,” she said. “Dave Goldschmitt is my mentor, my coach. He lit that fire in me to pursue this passion to the level that I did. And I have never looked back.”

Ms. Diaz also serves as a student success coordinator in Pellissippi’s Stay Strong Success Center, which helps students navigate the many transitions and challenges they may encounter during their college experience. She will focus on areas such as academic planning, study skills, and cultivating a sense of belonging.

“I am a student success coach, which is an awesome part of this job,” she said. “We get to connect and guide students through their

By Dan McWilliams

collegiate careers at the academic level. I think this part of the job strengthens our athletic department because we are reinforcing academic excellence and accountability. We have also been able to connect with so many great people in our college, and it has given us the insight of all the amazing support this institution has for all students.”

Ms. Diaz’s mother, Alicia, of All Saints Parish is a widow who raised Mariana and her half-brother, Erik.

“My mom is my hero, my rock, and my biggest supporter,” Ms. Diaz said. “She’s a warrior who has raised my brother and me. She exemplifies grit and encourages me to chase after my goals. ‘Get up and go again’—she showed me that falling down is an opportunity of strength. Soccer has been that you go again and again—you have to have personality and commitment to play this beautiful game. God has put amazing people in my life, and my mom has always enSoccer continued on page B2

Ulster Project unites Northern Ireland, U.S. teens

East Tennessee families host Northern Ireland youth and see the bonds and friendships that form

Northern Ireland has a storied past of violence known as The Troubles, an ethno-nationalist conflict that lasted around 30 years from the 1960s to the 1990s. The population was divided, largely between Catholics and Protestants, concerning whether Northern Ireland should reunite with the Republic of Ireland or remain in the United Kingdom.

In the 1970s, a Church of Ireland (Anglican) clergyman named Rev. Kerry Waterstone believed that teenagers from Northern Ireland might be positively influenced by the American way of life in the “melting pot” society of various races, religions, and ethnicities.

Rev. Waterstone received approval from Anglican church leaders and began to implement a plan that focused on addressing the prejudices and stereotypes of the time, and the Ulster Project was born in 1975.

Various programs now exist throughout the United States, from Ohio to Texas to Wisconsin to Arizona. In 1985, the Ulster Project came to East Tennessee, with the first group of teens arriving from Northern Ireland in 1986.

John Hough, a current board member and former president of the Ulster Project of East Tennessee, currently serves as the chairperson of the board that oversees interac-

tions between projects in the United States and projects in Northern Ireland.

“I’ve been involved with the project for 15 years this year,” Mr. Hough said. “I started out as just a host. I hosted counselors, so people who were coming over from Northern Ireland and needed a place to stay who were the adult leaders who were coming with the teens. I joined the board the next year, and then for seven years I was the president of the Ulster Project,

first in Oak Ridge, and then in 2012 when we merged with Knoxville to become the Ulster Project of East Tennessee, I was the president of that group for, I think, three years it was.”

Mr. Hough, who is a parishioner at St. Mary Parish in Oak Ridge, said that Catholic teenagers participated from numerous parishes around the diocese, including St. John XXIII, the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, All Saints, all in Knoxville, and St.

Mary.

By Gabrielle Nolan

Christina Adams, a parishioner at St. John XXIII and a board member for the Ulster Project of East Tennessee, has been involved since 2017.

“I’ve had both my kids participate in it; my daughter did it twice,” Ms. Adams said. “I will tell you, the first day or two can be pretty awkward, and then when they go home at the end, at the airport I will tell you there is not a dry eye. The bonds between them that are formed, all the teens, not just between the U.S. teens and Northern Irish teens but within the Northern Irish teens. You have in Northern Ireland that Protestant and Catholic teens for the most part attend different schools and live in different neighborhoods and don’t necessarily interact all that much with each other. It’s definitely beginning to change more, but there’s still definite barriers, and the friendships that are formed—a lot of teens will tell you that before they participated they never necessarily had a meaningful conversation with someone from a different faith tradition.”

Ms. Adams noted that the host families are critical to the mission of the Ulster Project. Both Catholic and Protestant churches are in-

DAN MCWILLIAMS

Riding the rapids Both American and Northern Irish teens enjoy a day on the Ocoee River during their summer experience of the Ulster Project, which unites teens of different faiths from the two countries.

Making a point Mariana Diaz Lopez leads a recent soccer practice for her Pellissippi State Community College women’s soccer team.

couraged me to do everything to its full capacity. Any opportunity I got in soccer is because of grit and full commitment because, as she says, if you are going to do something, you never do it halfway. I fulfilled my collegiate career with no regrets, nothing done halfway.”

Ms. Diaz and her mother joined All Saints Parish in 2012. The soccer coach has fond memories of former All Saints associate pastor Father Miguel Vélez, now pastor of St. Patrick in Morristown.

“My faith is why I am here today, in the position that I am in,” Ms. Diaz said. “God has put people in my life who I am just so grateful for. He has opened so many doors for me—everything is in His time. When I turned 15, Padre Miguel led my quinceañera ceremony. I don’t think I have ever told him, but his homily that day really impacted me. His homily was so perfect. He knew my passion; he knew how much I love soccer. So, you can only

guess what the homily was about. But it was the way he connected the game to God’s ability to work in our lives, how the game of soccer has a structure that resembles the pieces that God has in our lives. How as players we have the ability to make decisions, but everything is in principle to what the head coach has instilled and taught. Faith gives me peace of mind in every decision; faith that God has a plan and that we have to do our part gives me peace. I am very blessed to be surrounded by great people, and that’s God’s work.”

The Diocese of Knoxville’s Hispanic Ministry “has had a big impact on me and my family,” Ms. Diaz said.

“I have received so much love and support. They have seen me grow up. They have seen me take so many steps: go to college, graduate with a bachelor’s, graduate with a master’s, play, coach, etc.,” she said.

Ms. Diaz added that there is “a

village of people who have been so significant to my life and to this moment.”

“I am very grateful and very excited to continue to evolve and grow and hope to share that impact with those around me,” she added.

The Panthers started off their first season 2-1, with a 3-2 win over the

Tennessee Wesleyan junior varsity and a 10-0 rout of the Lindsey Wilson JV as part of an 18-game schedule.

“It’s going very well. I think we have a very good group. I’m very fortunate to be with this group of girls for the first year,” Ms. Diaz said. ■

IC hosts Young Adult & Seminarian Social

The second Young Adult & Seminarian Social took place July 15 at Immaculate Conception Church in Knoxville. IC pastor Father Charlie Donahue, CSP, hosted the gathering, which drew about 20 attendees. Deacon Danny Herman emceed the event, and fellow Diocese of Knoxville seminarians Deacon Bo Beaty, Deacon Michael Willey, and Daniel Cooper, along with Paulist seminarian James Marquez of Los Angeles, were present. The diocesan Office of Youth, Young Adult, and Pastoral Juvenil Ministry and the Office of Vocations co-sponsored the social.

Binghams named family of the quarter at St. Henry Knights of Columbus Council 8860 at St. Henry Parish in Rogersville recently recognized the Bingham family as its family of the quarter for July, August, and September. Jerry and Tonya Bingham have 11 children, two biological and nine foster/adopted children. Jerry often looks after many of the kids while Tonya is at a medical or counseling appointment with one of them. Tonya is a eucharistic minister and has served on the Parish Pastoral Council and hospitality committee. She volunteers at dinner fundraisers at the church and at her daughter’s school. Jerry and Tonya along with the children were recently honored by Gov. Bill Lee in Nashville at an event for foster parents in Tennessee.

DAN MCWILLIAMS (3)

BILL BREWER (4)

Bishop confirms 32 at St. Stephen Bishop Richard F. Stika confirmed 32 students April 22 at St. Stephen Church in Chattanooga. Also presiding over the Mass were St. Stephen pastor Father Manuel Pérez and associate pastor Father Christopher Manning. Karen Underwood is St. Stephen’s director of parish religious education. Confirmation teachers were Donna Snuggs and Anacaren Oceguera for sixth-graders and Mike Lucas and Rosemary Wensel for seventh-graders through high-schoolers.

HEWITT

NANCY POWELL

volved with hosting the teens from Northern Ireland.

“We couldn’t do it without them because the way the Ulster Project works is that… teens come over from Northern Ireland for three weeks, and they are paired with teens here in the U.S. who are about the same age. And then the whole group, both the U.S. teens and the Northern Irish teens do activities throughout the three-week period together. There would be no Ulster Project without hosts,” Ms. Adams said.

There is a screening process before the Northern Irish teens are placed with their host families.

“There’s a basic criminal background check; we do a home visit just to make sure that the house meets standards of safety, cleanliness. The basic question that we ask ourselves is if we’d be OK placing our own teenager in this home,” Ms. Adams said.

This summer, host families also provided leisurely activities and trips for their teens during their stay, and highlights included group trips to Dollywood and whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River.

In addition to their fun and games, the teens were also involved in various service projects. They visited the soup kitchen at Church Street United Methodist Church in Knoxville and the food pantry at St. Mary Church in Oak Ridge (a ministry of St. Vincent de Paul), and they provided waters with the Knoxville Track Club for a race in Alcoa.

“Our goal is to have them interact with the neighbors that they’re helping,” Mr. Hough said.

Additionally, the teens met for discovery sessions, where they talked about hard cultural topics, such as racism and sectarianism.

“The time of discovery is intentionally named in that we’re not teaching kids what to believe, we’re exposing them to facts and concepts and then letting them discover what it is they believe. We talk about things like who matters in the world, and who’s sitting on the margins in the world, and we talk about sectarianism, which is sort of their version of racism. We talk about racism, and we talk about all

of the churches’ positions on these topics. We pull out some church documents from the Catholic Church, Methodist Church, Presbyterian Church, here’s what people believe about these different things. Here’s what we’re told, which is not always necessarily how we act; it’s how we’re supposed to act because we’re imperfect,” Mr. Hough said.

Evan, a 16-year-old from All Saints Parish, was a host teen for the second time. He was inspired to participate in the Ulster Project because a family friend did it a few years ago, and it sounded fun.

He said he enjoyed meeting new people and creating friendships, and his favorite part of the experience was the all-day fun at Dollywood.

Another experience also stood out to Evan: the soup kitchen.

“The soup kitchen is good so you can learn about the homeless people and how a lot of them are just going through a bad time right now in their life and not addicted to drugs, alcohol,” he said.

Evan believes that, going forward in his life, the Ulster Project will have been an important part of his formation.

“It’s taught me a lot about racism and sectarianism and how you can combat them and help stop it,” he shared.

Lucy, a 15-year-old Northern Irish Protestant, said she would do the Ulster Project again.

Her favorite part was “getting to know so many new people; I definitely wouldn’t have met any of these people without the project. I think it’s really nice to get to know those people and make lifelong friends.”

The most challenging part for her was being away from home, but her host family “made me fit right in and just took me in as one of their own, so they made it pretty easy for me.”

Lucy said the project showed her peace in America.

“We learned lots of new things, so it’ll help all of us take that home and bring it home because there’s lots of conflict, so bringing all that peace home and seeing how it should be,” she said.

It’s been 48 years since the Ulster Project first began, and some may wonder: is its mission still relevant

Standing together Teens from the United States and Northern Ireland gather for a photo at St. Mary Church in Oak Ridge during this summer’s Ulster Project experience. Below left, the teens write farewell letters to each other. Below right, lighted candles sit on top of the flags of Ireland and Northern Ireland and represent the Ulster Project’s motto: “Creating unity amidst diversity.”

today?

“It’s still very relevant,” said John McCloskey, a Northern Irish Catholic who served as a first-time counselor for the Ulster Project this summer. “Obviously, the ’70s was a very dark time for Northern Ireland and… Ulster Project first of all was a part of the peace process, and they’re all children of the peace process, and we see now when we come to the meetings, they already know each other from Protestant schools and Catholic schools, and it’s so important to just give them a chance to keep meeting with each other and keep knowing each other and obviously just because of hundreds of years of troubled history back in Ireland and Northern Ireland, it’s always just so important to focus on cross community.”

“If you want to Google peace walls of Northern Ireland, it’s an interesting trip,” Mr. Hough shared. “They have neighborhoods with 30-foot walls between them… We can’t go over and tear down those walls… But maybe we can take somebody from each side of those walls and bring them here where they can get to know each other and find out, in fact, they’re really not that different from each other. They like the same TV shows; they like the same musicians; they like the same sports teams.”

“There’s many stories of people who have gone back, they remained friends, and they go to college together and they know each other, so they build some trust,” Mr. Hough contin-

ued. “There’s still lots of distrust, and that’s not really different than over here, and so we need to keep doing it, to keep sort of building it, but there’s still distrust politically.”

Mr. McCloskey said he sees the fruits of the Ulster Project in his country.

“The Ulster Project was one cog of a fantastic peace process machine. It’s been unbelievable,” he said. “I compare what I’ve grown up with compared to what my parents grew up with: it’s a different life. And that’s what the dream was in the Good Friday Agreement, and the Ulster Project was a part of that thinking and frame of mind. So, I would say 100 percent Ulster Project has allowed kids back home to grow up in a much safer and a much happier Northern Ireland.”

His favorite part of the summer was the fellowship among the teens.

“It’s been incredible watching these young people grow and really seeing the friendships they’ve made over the last few weeks; it’s been an unbelievable experience. When we started, they were all very nervous, but they’ve been so brilliant with each other; they’ve never left anybody,” Mr. McCloskey said.

“I’m a strong believer that if you give young people a chance, they can do something fantastic, and really I’ve just learned so much from them the last few weeks,” he said.

To learn more about the Ulster Project of East Tennessee, visit www. ulsterprojecteasttennessee.org ■

St. John Neumann Knights donate $22,465 to Catholic Charities Knights of Columbus Ted H. Denning Jr. Council 8781, with the support of St. John Neumann Parish in Farragut, completed its two-year fundraising campaign and delivered this summer the last of its donations totaling $22,465 to Catholic Charities of East Tennessee. CCETN plans to acquire an ultrasound machine that can be used in a mobile van. In addition to these donations, Council 8781 applied for a matching grant of $13,377 from the Knights order to fund half of the cost of the machine. When the match is considered, the total provides a kickstart of $9,087 toward acquiring the mobile van. About 60 percent of the donations came from individual contributions, and 40 percent came from council work, some from serving parish breakfasts and holding a basketball skills camp but most from serving food and beverages at University of Tennessee home football games. Pictured are Sandi Davidson, Pregnancy Services director (far left), accepting the check from Grand Knight Terry Scoggins (front row, right). In front are Anita and Deacon Mike Gouge. In the back are council members (from left) Don Schreyer, Richard Tabler, Rich Cataldi, Walt Hanson, Mark Scrock, and Mike Gates. Deacon Gouge, also a member of the council, has been a longtime advocate who supported efforts to get ultrasounds for pregnancy help centers.

SJN Knights assist with baby-bottle drive to benefit Catholic Charities

A baby-bottle drive to benefit Catholic Charities of East Tennessee at St. John Neuman in Farragut collected $6,615 from within the parish school and $5,564 from within the church. The drive was a combined effort of several ministries, including Knights of Columbus Ted H. Denning Jr. Council 8781. In lieu of CCETN paying $800 for the cost of the 800 baby-bottle banks, the council paid. The drive also leveraged the Knights order’s grant program, “Aid and Support After Pregnancy (ASAP).” The grant provides up to $400 for $2,000 raised per pregnancy help center per council per fraternal year. Thus, the $12,179 donation received a $2,400 match ($400 for each of the six CCETN-operated centers). When compared with a pre-COVID drive that raised about $8,000 but netted CCETN about $7,200, this drive doubled the net proceeds: $14,579. Pictured is CCETN executive director Lisa Healy accepting the six checks on July 20 from Grand Knight Terry Scoggins of Council 8781. Also pictured are members of the council (from left) Don Schreyer, Richard Tabler, Deacon Mike Gouge, Rich Cataldi, Mark Scrock, and Mike Gates.

BILL BREWER

Chattanooga Deanery

Holy Spirit, Soddy-Daisy

The annual Wellness Fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 17, at the pavilion. The event includes a blood drive and blood-pressure checks, and those present will include the Walgreens Vaccine Clinic, Benchmark Physical Therapy, Larry Harrison of CHI Memorial, nurse health coach Therese Parks, Parkinson’s personal trainer Bernadette Keegan, and Dallas Bay Fire & Rescue of Hixson. There will also be snacks and refreshments. Several parish ministries will be on hand, including the Blue Knights and Little Flowers, parish social media outreach, Liturgy and Worship, and more.

Monsignor Al Humbrecht will lead a book study on “The Homeless Bishop” by Joseph F. Girzone from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30, at the church. A potluck lunch will follow the study. Call the parish office at 423332-5300 to register.

Knights of Columbus Council 14079 at Holy Spirit held a silent auction Sept. 8 at the church to raise money for the Orange Grove Center of Chattanooga.

St. Bridget, Dayton

The Knights of Columbus conducted their annual sale of smoked pork with pickup on Sept. 1-2.

The St. Bridget Women’s Council is selling tickets in September for its annual quilt raffle fundraiser.

Planning is underway for the parish picnic. It will be hosted once again at the home of Pat and Barbara Bisson on Saturday, Oct. 14. “Mass in the Barn” will be celebrated at 5:30 p.m., with a potluck picnic to follow. Fireworks will close out the night if weather permits.

St. Jude, Chattanooga

The youth will be washing cars during the 8 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and 12:15 p.m. Masses on Sunday, Sept. 17. Park your car in the back lot behind the school if you would like it washed. The wash is free, but donations will be accepted that will help the youth attend mission trips and conferences.

The Council of Catholic Women is sponsoring a Personal Safety & Situational Awareness class for all women of the parish from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Sept. 18, in the parish life center. St. Jude School safety coordinator Aaron Yeargan, who has almost 20 years of combined military, law enforcement, and private security experience, will teach the class. Topics will include the psychology of criminal predators; mental preparedness; physical security in walking, driving, and using elevators and public transit; home safety (lighting, alarms, dogs, and safe rooms and spaces); out-of-town travel safety and security; and special populations such as the elderly and parents or children. For more information, call the parish office at 423-870-2386.

The church will host a bilingual Mass of Special Remembrance for the lives of infants lost due to miscarriage, stillbirth, and abortion at 8:15 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 23. All parents, siblings, grandparents, family, and friends of those who have lost an unborn infant are invited to come and support one another in a memorial service of hope and renewal. Those who are comfortable with sharing the name of their child are also invited so that they can be recognized in the prayer intentions. A short reception will be held in the parish life center following the Mass. For more information, call Anne at 703-309-5529. The Mass is presented by the Respecting Life Committee of St. Jude.

The CCW will again host the International Rosary at 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 5, at the church. All parishioners and fellow Catholics are invited to take part by leading a Hail Mary in another language or in English. Many in the past have come to the rosary in their native dress. To volunteer, call the parish office at 423-870-2386.

Another Trivia Night sponsored by the Knights of Columbus is set for 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 20. Teams of up to eight can compete for cash prizes of $400, $250, and $100 for the top three finishers. Cost is $50 per table. Bring your own food, snacks, and drinks. Ages 21 and over only. Register by Monday, Oct. 16, using the form in the bulletin.

St. Jude is accepting orders for All Souls Day luminaries for the Mass and procession Thursday, Nov. 2. Order forms are in the outer vestibule. Cost is $5 for each luminary.

The Northside Neighborhood House stability team recently thanked St. Jude parishioners for their generous response to the team’s food-pantry needs.

St. Mary, Athens

Because of popular demand, another bunco night will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 28. Bring an appetizer or dessert and $5 for prizes. Sign up on the sheet at the church or e-mail Debbie Exum at debexum@att.net or Gail Buckley at gbuckley4@comcast.net

Starting Sept. 6, the youth began offering a first Wednesday adoration following the 6 p.m. Mass. Light refreshments and fellowship time follow adoration. All ages are welcome to attend. For more information, call Sue Granger at 423-506-7836.

A women’s ice cream social took place Aug. 29. Brenda Ratcliff of St. Thérèse of Lisieux Parish in Cleveland spoke at the event about the Council of Catholic Women.

Lou Dionne and the Knights of Columbus thanked the team of volunteers that put in 600 man-hours at the Knights’ yard sale Aug. 17-19, as well as those who donated items and the parishioners who supported the sale.

Paulette Croteau thanked all those who assisted with the bake sale that was held in conjunction with the yard sale.

St. Stephen, Chattanooga

The Knights of Columbus named Mike Doyle as Knight of the year and the Bodnar family as family of the year.

Kenn Stroop won the Stumpy Award.

Thomas Minchew and Matt Lubaway are recent Knights of the month, and the Vannucci family was named family of the month. The Stumpy Award was named for Vincent “Stumpy” Sarratore, a longtime parishioner of St. Stephen who died in 2001. A World War II U.S. Marine Corps veteran, he was a twotime All-American for the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga football team in the late 1940s. He went on to coach for more than 40 years in North Georgia, including lengthy stops at Rossville Junior High School and Lakeview Middle School. He was a member of the Rossville Hall of Fame and the Greater Chattanooga Sports Hall of Fame. Mr. Sarratore was a member of Knights Council 6099 who always volunteered for any event or fundraiser and never missed a meeting or event. The Stumpy Award is given to the Knight who exhibits the qualities of what Mr. Sarratore’s life meant.

The Knights hosted a golf tournament Sept. 9 at Brainerd Golf Course and a pro-life barbecue Aug. 20. Proceeds of the barbecue will go toward local prolife causes, such as Catholic Charities’ layette program.

Anniversaries: John and Rosemary

Laliberte (61), Laurence and Sandy Schnur (60), Thomas and Nancy Bruno (57), Allan and Darlene Lacy (56), Jim and Sue Berros (55), Ron and Myrtle Englert (54), Jim and Ann Simms (54), Tom and Debbie Dematteo (50), Roger and Sandra Kent (50), Ray and Leslie Fox (45), Tim and Allison Runyon (35)

Cumberland Mountain Deanery

Blessed Sacrament, Harriman

The Ladies Guild held a silent-auction/ craft-sale/bake-sale fundraiser after Masses on Sept. 9 and 10 to support its many projects for the parish and community. The guild also collected condiments for a Hands of Mercy Food Drive on Sept. 2 and 3.

Parish notes continued on page B6

Father Burton

A potluck luncheon July 11 celebrated the 43rd anniversary of priestly ordination of Father Charlie Burton, pastor of St. Jude Parish in Chattanooga. In honor of the occasion, a parishioner made a Father Charlie bobblehead. More than 100 people attended the luncheon.

St. John Neumann holds Trivia Night

The Trivia Night adult social Aug. 26 at St. John Neumann Church in Farragut was a success with 92 attending. The Council of Catholic Women thanked the Knights of Columbus and others who helped at the event. Winners, from left, are Patrick Wade, Anna Wade, Christie Hubbard, Gary Hubbard, Christine Roeck, and Sister Maureen Ouma, ESM. Beside bragging rights for the next year, each winner is given a $10 Amazon gift card.

Women of St. Bridget celebrate July and August birthdays

Members of the Women’s Council at St. Bridget Parish in Dayton celebrated July and August birthdays recently at Panda Garden Buffet in Dayton. They had a wonderful turnout, the most since pre-COVID days. From left are (front row) Judy Logan, Maria Levenson, Dolly McKay, Barbara Bisson, Fran Durham, and Bonnie McGrath and (back row) Janet Spraker, Barbara Hill, Carole Hanish, Lynne Connors, Carol Miller, Deb Smith, Diane Niebuhr, Louise Ganss, Sherri Cobb, and Marlene Runge.

St. Joseph-Norris supports food pantry and Clothing Closet

St. Joseph Parish in Norris supports the Norris Area Food Pantry and Clothing Closet. The two charitable organizations are housed in Norris United Methodist Church’s education building. Both are supported by contributions and volunteers from most of the churches in Norris. One example of that support is St. Joseph’s recent application, made through the Diocese of Knoxville, to the Pope Francis Charitable Trust Fund for $1,500. The application was for money to purchase personal-hygiene items for the approximately 250 family clients of the pantry. That grant was awarded. Following the July distribution of food to 219 families, Father Dennis Kress (pictured above), pastor of St. Joseph, presented Tom Aldrich, director, and several of the volunteers who work at the pantry with a check for $3,000. In addition to this grant, St. Joseph Parish makes regular financial contributions to the pantry. St. Joseph also has about 14 volunteers who regularly donate their time at the food pantry and Clothing Closet.

with Father Burton

The closing session of the Cause for the Beatification and Canonization of the Servant of God Father Patrick Ryan will be held at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 28, at the Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul in Chattanooga. Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz, former bishop of Knoxville, will preside. Clerics are invited to vest in their choir dress. A reception will follow in Varallo Parish Hall. Ample parking is available. See map at stspeterandpaulbasilica.com/ directions-and-parking. RSVP to Deacon Gaspar DeGaetano, vice postulator for the cause, at 423-596-9669 or deacongaspar@me.com

A classical music recital featuring internationally acclaimed pianist Dr. ChihLong Hu and soprano soloist Dr. Sanjoo Oh will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 15, at St. Dominic Church in Kingsport. The recital benefits Catholic Charities of East Tennessee. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for students, online and at the door. A reception will follow the recital. To purchase tickets, visit ccetn.org/concert-sept23

The International Eucharistic Miracles of the World exhibit, a traveling display designed and created by Blessed Carlo Acutis, will be on display at the Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul in Chattanooga on Sept. 16-17 and at St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Lenoir City on Sept. 23-24. This exhibit, originally displayed at the Vatican in 2005, includes photos, art, and stories of more than 125 Vatican-authenticated miracles associated with faith in, and worship of, the Most Blessed Sacrament. Eucharistic miracles inspire a deeper awareness and more ardent love of the Lord’s Real Presence.

A Blaze Pizza Night to benefit the St. Mary’s Legacy Clinic is set for 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 20, at Blaze Pizza, 113 N. Peters Road in Knoxville. Orders placed via the Blaze Pizza app or at blazepizza.com with promo code 1056a will count toward the fundraiser.

The 2023 Celebrate Life Banquet, sponsored by the Knox County chapter of Tennessee Right to Life, will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 5, at Bridgewater Place event center, 205 Bridgewater Road in Knoxville. The featured speaker will be Dr. David Reardon, author of “Aborted Women: Silent No More.” Reservations are required and are $50 each. Reservations can be made at www.prolifeknox.org, 865-6891339, or trlknox@prolifeknox.com

Jason Evert will present two talks titled “Purified” and “Gender and the Theology of Your Body” on Sunday, Oct. 22, at St. John Neumann Church in Farragut. The “Purified” talk will take place from 3:30 to 5 p.m. and the second talk from 6 to 7 p.m. A dinner break is set for 5 to 6 p.m. The family-based event (ages 13 and up) invites parents, teens, and all adults to learn about God’s plan for love and to consider what is the meaning of sex, gender, and the human body. Adoration will be held, and the sacrament of reconciliation will be offered, from 7 to 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 and are available at chastity. com/events/jason-evert-doublefeature-20/ or tinyurl.com/knoxville doublefeature or by contacting Lisa Sinclair at 703-862-8165 or lisasinclair @gmail.com. For more information, visit chastity.com/purified/

The Creation Care Team at All Saints Parish in Knoxville, the Care for Creation Ministry at Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Alcoa, and Catholic Response to Climate Change are sponsoring “Everything Is Connected—Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’: A guide to finding our place in God’s creation,” a talk by Sister Rose Marie Tresp, RSM, director of justice for the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, South Central Community. The talk will take place from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 17, at All Saints Church. Reservations are appreciated; e-mail creationcare@ allsaintsknoxville.com. The All Saints and Our Lady of Fatima ministries are also sponsoring a Smoky Mountain hike along the Middle Prong Trail (8.3 miles total) at 8 a.m. Monday, Sept. 25. Meet at Our Lady of Fatima Church to carpool. RSVP to maryetank@hotmail. com or elizmccac@icloud.com. The ministries are taking part in a ranger-

guided walk at Seven Islands State Birding Park in Knox County at 8 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 30. Meet at All Saints at 7 a.m. to carpool. There is a $6 fee per person. Register at tnstateparks. com/parks/event_details/SevenIslands/#/?event=private-group-hikesept-30 or allsaintsknoxville.org/ creation-care-team. For more information, e-mail Ann Hill at ahutonahill@ icloud.com. A blessing of animals will be held at All Saints at 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1. A feast of St. Francis outdoor Mass will take place at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 4, at Our Lady of Fatima.

The music ministry at Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Alcoa is presenting “Come Away to the Skies: A High Lonesome Mass,” by Dr. Tim Sharp and Wes Ramsay, at 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24, at Our Lady of Fatima Church. Singers from Knoxville Catholic High School; Dr. Sharp, guest conductor; Dr. Christy Lee, OLOF director of music and liturgy; and Phil Holloway, director of choral activities at KCHS, will take part in the performance. The composition is a contemporary musical setting of the Ordinary of the Mass created, composed, and arranged by Mr. Ramsay and Dr. Sharp. Written in 2011, the work is intended to be performed by choir, vocal soloists, and a bluegrass band. It contains traditional Mass parts incorporated into six movements: Introit, Kyrie Eleison, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, and Agnus Dei. The work is approximately 30 minutes in duration. It has taken traditional chant settings of the Ordinary of the Roman Mass in Latin and combined them with American frontier spirituals, many of the musical tunes having their origins in the East Tennessee Appalachian region such as “Brethren We Have Met to Worship” and “What Wondrous Love.”

Bristol-area Christians from various denominations will take part in the 40 Days for Life vigil to end abortion Sept. 27 to Nov. 5. For 40 days, they will pray, fast, and have a peaceful, non-confrontational, 12-hour/day prayer vigil on the public areas around Bristol Women’s Health, an abortion clinic at 2603 Osborne St. in Bristol, Va. Participants can learn more about the international 40 Days for Life prayer ministry. St. Anne Church, 316 Euclid Ave. in Bristol, Va., is hosting a 40 Days for Life Kickoff Prayer Service at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 19. To learn more or to RSVP for pizza at 6 p.m., contact Angie Bush at 40daysbristol tn@gmail.com or 276-644-0340.

Catholic in Recovery is a 12-step recovery ministry that holds meetings each Monday at 7 p.m. at St. Mary Church in Johnson City. CIR provides hope and healing from addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments. Family members impacted by a loved one’s addiction are also encouraged to attend. Meetings combine the spiritual principles of 12-step recovery and the sacraments of the Catholic Church. Join others in recovery as the meetings overlap Scripture from Sunday’s Mass readings, liturgical themes, and recovery topics with honest discussion and prayer. Confidentiality is protected. For more information, visit www.catholicinrecovery.com or contact Jena at cir.tricities.tn@gmail. com, Beth at 714-651-2008, or Ed at 865-599-4823.

The relics of St. Pio of Pietrelcina (Padre Pio) will be exposed at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus on Tuesday, Sept. 26, and at the Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul in Chattanooga on Wednesday, Sept. 27. At the cathedral, the relics will be exposed beginning at 8:30 a.m. and concluding at 6 p.m. A Mass in honor of Padre Pio will be celebrated at noon.

At the basilica, the regular weekday Mass in English will be celebrated at noon. Veneration of the relics will take place from 12:30 to 7 p.m. Reflections on Padre Pio will be presented in English at 5:30 p.m. by Father Michael Hendershott and in Spanish at 6:15 p.m. by Deacon Renzo Alvarado Suarez, both in Varallo Parish Hall. A multilingual Mass in honor of Padre Pio will be celebrated at 7 p.m. in the basilica. The St. Pio Foundation will offer personalized devotional items for purchase by the faithful visiting the relics

Calendar continued on page B8

Father Iorio celebrates his 30th anniversary

Father Peter Iorio, pastor of Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Alcoa, celebrated his 30th anniversary of priestly ordination Aug. 6. Father Iorio, who is dean of the Smoky Mountain Deanery, was ordained Aug. 6, 1993, at St. Augustine Church in Signal Mountain by Bishop Anthony J. O’Connell.

Holy Ghost Legion of Mary honors fallen veterans with patriotic rosary

Members of the Legion of Mary, Spouse of the Holy Ghost Praesidium, and parishioners of Holy Ghost in Knoxville honored fallen veterans by participating in a patriotic rosary on July 4 at Knoxville National Cemetery. The rosary was led by legion member Brian Snyder and auxiliary member Ronn Kopp. Daniel Dixon of the Holy Ghost choir led the group in song.

Sacred Heart Knights receive Double Star Council Award

Knights of Columbus Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Council 5207 in Knoxville has been awarded the Double Star Council Award, the international organization’s top honor for local councils. The Star Council Award recognizes overall excellence in the areas of growing membership, promoting Knights of Columbus insurance benefits, sponsoring Catholic faith formation programs, and volunteering time through service-oriented activities. Council 5207 provided service throughout the year to both the parish family and the community at large. The various programs the council is involved in include partnering with Catholic Charities to support the Pregnancy Help Center and the purchase of ultrasound machines, monthly food drives to support the Ladies of Charity, Coats for Kids, the March for Life, Special Olympics, a Valentine’s Day father/daughter dance, Lenten fish fries, monthly parish service days, and many more programs. Chris Manning, immediate past Grand Knight of Council 5207, said, “This recognition is testament to the hard work of all our brother Knights. They continually perform at the highest level and, by their service, demonstrate the love our Lord Jesus Christ has for all the members of our community.” Membership in the Knights of Columbus is open to men 18 years of age or older who are practicing Catholics in union with the Holy See. For information on joining the Knights of Columbus, contact Council 5207 membership director Bobby Brendlinger at bobby6542@gmail.com.

St. Stephen celebrates first Communion St. Stephen Parish in Chattanooga held its first Holy Communion recently. Thirtyfour young students received their first Communion in a Mass presided over by Fathers Manuel Pérez and Christopher Manning. Karen Underwood is the director of parish religious education. First Holy Communion teachers were Paula Zeh and Carli Zeh, second-graders, and Deacon Dave Waguespack, third- and fourth-graders. Sister Eloisa Torralba Aquino, MAG, and Paola Encinas taught the Hispanic group.

Sitting around: at the movies or an airport

Spending time with grandkids or waiting on a flight—we should enjoy the journey that is life

One of the real pleasures in my life is going to the movies. Good or bad, long or short, buttered or plain, I’ll go see just about anything. At least I used to, before popcorn went to $10 a bucket. Still, I do love the experience.

Whenever I take the grandkids, Brady has some rules. He gets to hold the popcorn during the show, but neither of us is allowed to have any until the movie actually begins. So he sets it on the floor out of reach. Unless he sneaks some.

Which he does. I called him on it at our last movie, leaning over, laughing and whispering, “I saw that.”

Never looking at me, and with no nod of guilt or admission of sin, he simply and slowly reached down, plucked a single kernel off the top, and held it out for me to take. Guess we’re even.

Keenly aware it’s not my favorite, Emma buys candy so she doesn’t have to share.

Psychologists would likely say these movies are my escape from the real world, two hours of going somewhere else, anywhere else. They may well be on target. Escaping isn’t all bad, if you come back.

In my new post-retirement second career of traveling and speaking with Catholic school faculties, I have found myself spending a lot more time in airports than I ever did before.

The rash of fewer pilots and flights naturally equates to a lot more time spent sitting and waiting and thinking and imagining.

On one recent trip, we had to endure what so many others are having to endure: the dreaded delay. It wasn’t days and nights or anything insane like you see on the news. Just a couple of hours, this one due to bad weather.

And that’s when I remembered one of my favorite old movies, “Airport.” Over 50 years old now, it may have started the trend of “disaster movies” so many of us enjoyed on the big screen.

As is the norm these days, I had arrived at the airport way too early. Combining that with the storm delay, I found myself replaying scenes from that famous flick.

I recalled one in which security was needed for a crisis. Rather than incite mass hysteria, double-secret coded messages went out over the intercom.

“Would Mr. Winthrop please report to Gate 98?” No real Mr. Winthrop, no real Gate 98, but everyone in the loop knew where to go and what to do.

Since then, I have imagined they have similar codes for other crises— calls for an imaginary “Mr. Jones or Smith” that tell insiders about heart attacks and bomb scares . And I guess I’m glad not to know.

Turns out they don’t have secret messages for all the bad news.

Our gate attendant was pretty blunt: “Ladies and gentlemen, Flight 42 from Memphis to Detroit will be delayed because the plane is broken. We will be boarding shortly.”

The plane is broken?! Any chance we could be more precise, please? Is it the engine we’re worried about, or is it an overhead bin that won’t fasten? Is it a flip-down tray that won’t return to its proper position, or is it the landing gear? There’s a difference. I have different blood-pressure levels, and I need to know which one is most appropriate.

We quickly (no, slowly) learned that “boarding shortly” is itself a coded message for “We don’t have a clue when that’s really gonna happen, but the boss prefers we keep your hopes up.”

Forty-five minutes brought a second update: “Ladies and gentlemen, the good news is we have defined the broken part, and it is on the way from the shop. The bad news is that the shop is in Minnesota. They’re putting it on the next flight, and it should be here in three hours. Isn’t that a bummer?”

I wouldn’t lie about that. She actually said, “Isn’t that a bummer?”

At that moment, 200 passengers randomly hollered out messages that required no deciphering or decoding.

Did y’all know food and drink in airports is incredibly expensive? To tide me over, I bought a Diet Coke

Thoughts and Prayers for the Faithful by Deacon Bob Hunt

and some M&Ms and spent north of $7.

I may have blurted out my own uncoded message.

But it’s at times like these when we don’t really know what to feel. So we say goofy things like, “Hurry up and take your time.”

One moment I’m thinking, “You fly 1,200 flights a week from this airport, but the parts shop is in Minnesota?”

Followed by, “Do you think working in the dark out there is the best idea? Can’t you taxi it under that big streetlight over there? I’m not in that big a hurry!!”

The only other update we received was a vague reference to a malfunctioning valve and another “we’ll be boarding shortly.” Which when issued a second time is code for, “I know I lied last time, and I’m lying again this time, but it’s less of a lie. Thanks for not hurting me!”

Seven hours behind schedule, we landed safely, with no need for any additional crisis codes. And my this year’s Thanksgiving list grew to include three mechanics, two pilots, and a new part for an old plane. Dear God—Too much of our lives is spent sitting somewhere else. All too often we forget to enjoy the journey that is life. And what a brief journey it is. Please help us enjoy it. Amen. ■

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

Analyzing the decline in church attendance

Kids who grow up ‘in a continuously married home’ are more likely to go to church as young adults

It’s impossible to keep up with the news, even the secular news, without occasionally coming across an article that addresses the decline in Christian faith and church attendance in the United States that has occurred over the last few decades.

The decline has become especially precipitous in recent years. According to the Pew Research Center, from 2007 to 2021 the percentage of Americans who identify as Christian dropped from 78 percent to 63 percent. What is more, those who have abandoned the Christian faith have not abandoned it for Eastern, Muslim, Jewish, New Age, or more esoteric religious traditions. They have abandoned Christianity for nothing. Over the same years that Christians dropped 14 percentage points, the percentage of the population who identify as “nones” rose from 16 percent to 29 percent. To put it more starkly, in 2007, Christians in America outnumbered the religiously unaffiliated by 5-1. By 2021, that ratio had dropped to 2-1.

According to Pew, the decline among Catholics has leveled off, dropping from 24 percent of the population to 21 percent and holding. Among Protestants, however, the drop has been more significant, from 52 percent to 40 percent. This doesn’t mean Catholics can breathe a sigh of relief, however, for the number of Catholics who attend

Parish notes continued from page B4

St. Francis of Assisi, Fairfield Glade

The Council of Catholic Women bake sale June 30 was a great success, and the CCW thanked everyone for their generosity and help. The council made a profit of $3,500, which will help its many charities.

The Knights of Columbus and the Social Action Ministry appreciate all who volunteered, participated, and donated to a benefit concert to support Hilltoppers Inc.

Mass weekly or “regularly” has declined over those same years, and almost four in 10 of those who today identify as religiously unaffiliated were raised Catholic. How did we fail them? Furthermore, a fair percentage of still-active Catholics confess that they are considering leaving the Church. How are we failing them?

Earlier this year, Communio, which calls itself “a nonprofit ministry that equips churches to evangelize through the renewal of healthy relationships, marriages, and the family,” published “A Nationwide Survey on Faith & Relationships.”

Here is the money quote: Communio writes that “the collapse in marriage and the resulting decline of resident fatherhood may offer the best explanation for the decline in Christianity in the United States.” Communio surveyed 19,000 Sunday church attendees from 112 evangelical, Protestant, and Catholic churches. What did they find? Fully 80 percent of single young adults, those who have never married and are between the ages of 25-29, who attend church services regularly, “grew up in a continuously married home with both biological parents.” That figure jumps to almost nine out of 10 for men in the same age/marriage bracket. Children who grow up with married parents are considerably more likely to attend church services regularly as young adults. “Family

on July 13 at Fairfield Glade Square. A total of $3,700 was raised for the Knights’ KIND Charities of Tennessee to support services for people who are intellectually and developmentally disabled.

The parish thanked Father Glenn Meaux and Father John Matejek for helping out while pastor Father Michael Woods was in Ireland.

After the 10 a.m. Mass on Aug. 15, Pat Hurley spoke to the Muffins for Mary group on the topic “Heart of Mary—

decline,” Communio concludes, “appears to fuel faith decline.”

This is not good news in a society where fewer than half of adults under the age of 30 grew up in homes with married parents. According to Communio’s study, only 20 percent of those children are likely to attend church regularly as adults. (Full disclosure: I am one of those adults, though the loss of my father was due to death rather than divorce or my parents having never married). The survey also reports that most fathers who are not married to the mother(s) of their children don’t live with their children and interact with their children only weekly or less, and interactions decline significantly after the age of 2. This is bad news for kids, as those with absent fathers are more likely to suffer adverse childhood experiences, such as poverty, depression, violent crimes, or general struggles as adults. They also rarely attend church services.

But marriages don’t break up without first exhibiting warning signs. Marriage is hard work. Love is hard work. Communio’s survey found that 20 percent of married churchgoers struggle in their marriages, wives more so than husbands. The numbers are much worse for cohabitating couples and couples who don’t go to church. Yet even though the link between the decline in marriage and the

Merciful Love.”

The Year of Parish Revival will take place in the parish hall at 9 a.m. on the dates listed, and a light breakfast will be served. Talks began with “The Mystery of the Eucharist” on Aug. 11 and continue with “The Bread of Life” on Sept. 29; “The Incredible Eucharistic Miracles” on Oct. 13; “Our Gift from Jesus and Miracles” on Oct. 18, presented by parishioner Mary Maeder, “On the Way to Emmaus” on Nov. 10; and “Living a Eucharistic Life” on Dec.

decline in Christianity and church attendance seems clear, 85 percent of churches reported in the survey that they spend zero dollars annually on marriage ministries. Nothing. The Church is made up of families, and those families are largely made up of married men and women, yet the vast majority of churches spend nothing on ministries to help sustain marriages, heal marriages, and encourage more fulfilling marriages.

What is the answer for churches? Communio writes, “To evangelize fruitfully in the 21st century, we must reverse the declining number of marriages, improve marital health, and increase the effectiveness of fathers in those marriages.”

This survey is a valuable resource. It offers a window into the reasons for the decline in Christianity and church attendance but also some practical steps churches can take to reverse that decline. It is a wake-up call to churches to develop ministries targeting married couples, not only those who are struggling but also those who are doing well to help further their growth and fulfillment as a couple committed to Christ. We ought not waste this opportunity.

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.

5, presented by Dr. Mary Healy.

A Backpack Outreach effort was a great success. Crossville Housing Services thanked the parish for its generous service. A total of 85 backpacks was returned to the church packed with school supplies and distributed to children residing in public housing. The children were surprised and happy and their parents grateful. The Social Action Ministry shared its findings and was happy to report that the prisoners the Parish notes continued on page B8

Eucharistic Prayer I holds a privileged place

In my July column, I began a series on the Eucharistic Prayer (EP) and gave examples from Eucharistic Prayer II, and in August I discussed Eucharistic Prayer III. This month I want to introduce Eucharistic Prayer I, also known as the Roman Canon (the term “canon” refers to its fixed nature). For many centuries it was the only Eucharistic Prayer used by the Latin Church. The earliest version we have is from St. Ambrose (died 397), and it has not changed significantly since the time of St. Gregory the Great (died 604). Today it is the first Eucharistic Prayer in the Roman Missal and may always be used.

It has several distinctive features. The other EPs have a series of intercessions following the consecration, but the Roman Canon follows a tradition originating in Alexandria, Egypt, which includes intercessions before the consecration as well as after. Before the consecration there is an intercession for the living, “for the redemption of their souls, in hope of health and well-being, and paying their homage to you, the eternal God, living and true.”

Following the consecration is an intercession for the dead, asking for them “a place of refreshment, light, and peace.”

While all of the EPs invoke the Blessed Virgin Mary, and EPs I-IV add St. Joseph, plus various saints—the Apostles, martyrs, all the saints—the Roman Canon also includes two lists of saints. The first,

before the consecration, begins with the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Joseph, and then names the Twelve Apostles, followed by six bishops, two clerics, and four laymen. This list has special insertions for important feasts: Christmas and its octave, Epiphany, the Mass of the Lord’s Supper, Easter and its octave, Ascension, and Pentecost. The Roman Canon is especially suited for use on these days. A second list of saints after the consecration includes John the Baptist, three saints from Acts (Stephen, Matthias, and Barnabas) plus four more men and seven women. The saints in both lists were all honored in Rome before the end of the fourth century.

Following the consecration, there is a petition for the acceptance of “these offerings” that mentions three Old Testament figures, all from Genesis. The first reference is to “the gifts of your servant Abel the just” (Genesis 4:4). Abel and his brother Cain each brought an offering to the Lord, who looked with favor on Abel’s offering but not on Cain’s. Angry and dejected, Cain killed his brother. The second reference is to “the sacrifice of Abraham, our father in faith” (Genesis 15:7-21; 22:1-14). Abraham was willing to obey God’s command to sacrifice his beloved son Isaac, through whom all of God’s promises to Abraham were to be fulfilled. Seeing Abraham’s obedience, God stayed his hand and provided a ram. The third reference is to “the offering of your

high priest Melchizedek” (Genesis 14:18-20). Melchizedek was a priest who met Abraham as he was returning from battle. He brings bread and wine and blesses Abraham, who in turn gives him a tenth of the spoils. Each Old Testament figure prefigured Christ and the Eucharist in a specific way: Abel who was killed for presenting a pleasing offering to the Lord, Abraham who was willing to offer up his beloved son, and Melchizedek the priest who brought bread and wine and blessed Abraham, our father in faith.

Immediately following this prayer, there is a petition that the Body and Blood of Christ would “be borne by the hands of your holy angel to your altar on high in the sight of your divine majesty.” Different interpretations have been offered for the identity of the angel, including Jesus and the Holy Spirit, but the likeliest meaning is an angel. It may be the angel mentioned in the description of the worship of heaven in Revelation: “another angel came and stood at the altar with golden censer…and the smoke of the incense rose with the prayers of the saints from the hand of the angel before God” (Revelation 8:34). This petition is a reference to the eternal liturgy celebrated in heaven to which every celebration of Mass is joined.

The Roman Canon also emphasizes the sacrificial aspect of the Mass. At the beginning of the Canon the priest makes the sign of

the cross over the bread and wine, “these holy and unblemished sacrifices.” In the oblation (offering) that follows the consecration, Christ present on the altar is described as “this pure victim, this holy victim, this spotless victim.” Christ’s sacrifice on Calvary and the eucharistic sacrifice “are one single sacrifice. ‘The victim is one and the same: the same now offers through the ministry of priests, who then offered himself on the cross’” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1367). On the cross, Christ offered himself in a bloody manner, but now in the Mass in an unbloody manner. Finally, the intercession for the living speaks of “a sacrifice of praise,” which, says the Catechism, is only possible “through Christ: He unites the faithful to His person, to His praise, and to His intercession, so that the sacrifice of praise to the Father is offered through Christ and with Him, to be accepted in Him” (CCC, 1361).

For centuries, the Roman Canon has been the great prayer of thanksgiving and consecration that effects Christ’s sacrifice, which fulfills the Old Testament figures and sacrifices, gathers the communion of saints, and unites the earthly liturgy to the heavenly liturgy. It rightly continues to hold a privileged place in the Church’s liturgy. ■

Father Randy Stice is director of the diocesan Office of Worship and Liturgy. He can be reached at frrandy@dioknox. org.

Notre Dame vacation Bible school trains youth to be ‘Cathletics: Champions for Christ’

“Cathletics: Training to Be Champions for Christ” was the theme for this year’s vacation Bible school at Notre Dame Church in Greeneville. VBS was held every Wednesday night in June. Sessions featured music, crafts, games, snacks, and a faith session that included a saint-of-the-day story. A daily demonstration was held on one of the cardinal virtues by the VBS director. Day one, “The Game Plan,” was a focus on the Greatest Commandments. Day two, “Know the Rules,” focused on learning the 10 Commandments. Day three, “Training Hard,” was about practicing the Beatitudes. Day four, “Game On,” was about living out the fruits of the Holy Spirit. Day five, “Victory,” becoming champions for Christ, concluded with Mass on July 5 followed by a potluck meal and lots of water games. Participants gave Notre Dame pastor Father Joseph Kuzhupil, MSFS, a VBS T-shirt that they painted and signed their names on.

Daily readings

Friday, Sept. 15: Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows, 1 Timothy 1:1-2, 12-14; Psalm 16:1-2, 5, 7-8, 11; John 19:25-27

Saturday, Sept. 16: Memorial of Sts. Cornelius, pope, and Cyprian, bishop, martyrs, 1 Timothy 1:15-17; Psalm 113:1-7; Luke 6:43-49

Sunday, Sept. 17: Sirach 27:30–28:7; Psalm 103:1-4, 9-12; Romans 14:7-9; Matthew 18:21-35

Monday, Sept. 18: 1 Timothy 2:1-8; Psalm 28:2, 7-9; Luke 7:1-10

Tuesday, Sept. 19: 1 Timothy 3:1-13; Psalm 101:1-3, 5-6; Luke 7:11-17

Wednesday, Sept. 20: Memorial of Sts. Andrew Kim Tae-gon, priest, and Paul Chong Ha-sang, and companions, martyrs, 1 Timothy 3:14-16; Psalm 111:1-6; Luke 7:31-35

Thursday, Sept. 21: Feast of St. Matthew, Apostle, and evangelist, Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-13; Psalm 19:2-5; Matthew 9:9-13

Friday, Sept. 22: 1 Timothy 6:2-12; Psalm 49:6-10, 17-20; Luke 8:1-3

Saturday, Sept. 23: Memorial of St. Pius of Pietrelcina, priest, 1 Timothy 6:13-16; Psalm 100:1-5; Luke 8:4-15

Sunday, Sept. 24: Isaiah 55:6-9; Psalm 145:2-3, 8-9, 17-18; Philippians 1:20-24, 27; Matthew 20:1-16

Monday, Sept. 25: Ezra 1:1-6; Psalm 126:1-6; Luke 8:16-18

Tuesday, Sept. 26: Ezra 6:7-8, 12, 1420; Psalm 122:1-5; Luke 8:19-21

Wednesday, Sept. 27: Memorial of St. Vincent de Paul, priest, Ezra 9:59; Tobit 13:2-4, 7-8; Luke 9:1-6

Thursday, Sept. 28: Haggai 1:1-8; Psalm 149:1-6, 9; Luke 9:7-9

Friday, Sept. 29: Feasts of St. Mi-

chael, Gabriel, and Raphael, archangels, Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14; Psalm 138:1-5; John 1:47-51

Saturday, Sept. 30: Memorial of St. Jerome, priest and doctor of the Church, Zechariah 2:5-9, 14-15; Jeremiah 31:10-13; Luke 9:43-45

Sunday, Oct. 1: Ezekiel 18:25-28; Psalm 25:4-9; Philippians 2:1-11; Matthew 21:28-32

Monday, Oct. 2: Memorial of the Guardian Angels, Zechariah 8:1-8; Psalm 102:16-21, 29, 22-23; Matthew 18:1-5, 10

Tuesday, Oct. 3: Zechariah 8:20-23; Psalm 87:1-7; Luke 9:51-56

Wednesday, Oct. 4: Memorial of St. Francis of Assisi, Nehemiah 2:1-8; Psalm 137:1-6; Luke 9:57-62

Thursday, Oct. 5: Nehemiah 8:1-12; Psalm 19:8-11; Luke 10:1-12

Friday, Oct. 6: Baruch 1:15-22; Psalm

79:1-5, 8-9; Luke 10:13-16

Saturday, Oct. 7: Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary, Baruch 4:512, 27-29; Psalm 69:33-37; Luke 10:17-24

Sunday, Oct. 8: Isaiah 5:1-7; Psalm 80:9, 12-16, 19-20; Philippians 4:6-9; Matthew 21:33-43

Monday, Oct. 9: Jonah 1:1–2:1-2 and 2:11; Jonah 2:3-5, 8; Luke 10:25-37

Tuesday, Oct. 10: Jonah 3:1-10; Psalm 130:1-4, 7-8; Luke 10:38-42

Wednesday, Oct. 11: Jonah 4:1-11; Psalm 86:3-6, 9-10; Luke 11:1-4

Thursday, Oct. 12: Malachi 3:13-20; Psalm 1:1-4, 6; Luke 11:5-13

Friday, Oct. 13: Joel 1:13-15 and 2:1-2; Psalm 9:2-3, 6, 16, 8-9; Luke 11:15-26

Saturday, Oct. 14: Joel 4:12-21; Psalm 97:1-2, 5-6, 11-12; Luke 11:2728 n

The Roman Canon has for centuries been a great prayer of thanksgiving and consecration

at the basilica. Ample parking will be available near the basilica that evening. The relics are part of a touring exhibition of the St. Pio Foundation (saintpio foundation.org), which is dedicated to the promotion of the spiritual charism of Padre Pio. Contact the cathedral at 865-588-0249 or shcathedral@shc knox.org for additional information. Visiting clergy to the basilica should RSVP to admin@stspeterandpaul basilica.com

Holy Fire Nashville, a day of talks, praise and worship, and Mass for middle-schoolers, is set for 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21, with Mass at 4 p.m. The event will be hosted by the Diocese of Nashville at the Catholic Pastoral Center, 2800 McGavock Pike, Nashville. Middle school Catholics are invited and challenged to embrace their baptismal call and the powerful, relevant Gospel of Jesus. Through talks by speakers, witnesses by peers, praise and worship, and the rich experiences of the sacraments, Holy Fire will help young people feel seen, welcomed, and invited into a life-changing commitment to Christ. Speakers include Bishop J. Mark Spalding of Nashville, PJ Anderson, Angele Baczmaga, Noelle Garcia, and DJ Staël. Participants are invited to travel together with others from the Diocese of Knoxville. Cost is $45 per person with an optional Chickfil-A lunch available for purchase. Visit dioknox.org/events/holy-fire-2023 to download a flyer and to view updates. More information on Holy Fire Nashville is also available at eqsaints.com/ holyfire-nashville

Parish notes continued from page B6

ministry works with also wrote personal handwritten notes in many of the backpacks encouraging students to do their very best this school year.

The Knights of Columbus held their second children’s clothing drive Aug.19 and 20 in the church parking lot.

The CCW’s annual rummage sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Sept. 14 and 15, and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept.16.

Anniversaries: Milton and Regina Jerabek (74), Roger and Sally Vachon (66), Michael and Judith Byra (62), Pat and Sarah Tripiciano (61), Donald and Patricia Tomek (60), Robert and Martha Takac (57), John and MaryAnne Kieck (57), Dale and Sharon Yeager (56), Kenneth and Sharon Tripoli (56), John and Regina Leppien (56), Roland and Jane Wicker (55), Michael and Cheryl Fries (54), William and Judith Sundstrom (54), John and Pula Madzy (54), Roger and Marcie Soprych (54), Michael and Wendy Lebert (52), John and Kathy Upp (51), Herbert Baker and Mary Riedner (45), Jeff and Mary Nagy (45), Mark and Joan Melewitz (45), George and Susan Garofalo (45), Ed and Leanne Flaherty (45), Chris and Patricia Vercautren (40), Stephen Murphy and Dawn Skinner (35), John and Paula Madzy (35), Calvin and Mary Hewitt (10)

St. John Neumann, Farragut

A Ministry Fair will follow the 10:30 a.m. Mass on Sunday, Sept. 17. Tables and signup sheets for each ministry will be in the school gym. Representatives of each ministry will be available to answer questions. Contact Ellie Sanchez at esanchez@sjnknox.org for details.

The Harvesting for Him fall festival at the church and school is set for the weekend of Oct. 21-22. A 5K race and chili dinner will take place on the first day. The second day will offer inflatables, food, and a barbecue competition.

A free session on estate planning and tax-savvy charitable giving was presented Aug. 28 in the library by St. John Neumann staff, an estate-planning attorney, and a financial professional adviser.

Five Rivers Deanery

Holy Trinity, Jefferson City

The fall festival will be held after the 10:30 a.m. Mass on Sunday, Nov. 5. Contact Donna Dunn at 631-495-0031 or pfl.htjctn@gmail.com to sign up or submit ideas.

The parish thanked those who donated

The Healing Ministry at Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Alcoa offers healing prayers every third weekend of the month for anyone who has a physical, emotional, or spiritual need. Individual healing prayer will be offered in Spanish in the church immediately following the 7 p.m. Saturday Mass in Spanish, and prayer will be offered in English in the chapel immediately following the 11 a.m. Sunday Mass. Call Toni Jacobs at 561-315-5911 if you have any questions.

A Picture of Love retreat for engaged couples is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, Sept. 22 and 23, at St. Stephen Church in Chattanooga. This marriage-preparation program is a supplement to a couple’s marriage formation with their parish priest or deacon. Picture of Love 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 each 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.

Meeting times are 6:45 to 10 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Saturday. Cost is $150 per couple. For a registration form, visit dioknox.org/events/ picture-of-love-retreat

The Knoxville St. Patrick’s Parade is planned for 1 p.m. Saturday, March 16, 2024. The event benefits Catholic Charities of East Tennessee. To sponsor, participate, volunteer, or learn more,

school supplies or monetary contributions to the Appalachian Ministry of the Smokies’ annual school-supply drive. The ministry was able to distribute 600 filled backpacks for local children and additional bags for preschoolers. It also served 240 families with food boxes, dental kits, and snack bags because of the generosity of Holy Trinity parishioners.

The Knights of Columbus recently named Jim and Sue Pickering as family of the quarter.

Anniversaries: Douglas and Donna Ibbetson (50), Anthony and Jacqui Orahoske (40)

Notre Dame, Greeneville

A 19-week women’s Bible study based on the book “Grounded in Hope,” focusing on the Letter to the Hebrews, began Sept. 14. Call Elizabeth Girton for more information at 828-231-4835.

Notre Dame’s annual Fall Festival of Nations fundraiser is set for Saturday, Oct. 7. The event will include samples of food from around the world, free entertainment, a silent auction, a bake sale, games and inflatables, vendors and displays, an art show, a yard sale, and a raffle. Those who know of musicians or dance teams who would like to take part should call Sandy at 423-329-2853. Vendors may set up for a low cost. Silentauction item donors should call Wanda at 423-470-6906. Raffle tickets are $2 for a chance to win one of three $500 prizes to be given away Oct. 7. Raffle ticket purchasers must be 18 or older. Homemade foods, canned goods, and jellies will be accepted for the bake sale; call Elaine at 423-823-7318 for more information. For the yard sale, clean, gently used items are being received in the Ganz Youth Center. No clothes or electronics. Call Rosemary at 423-329-2251 for details. Adults are needed to help with the inflatables for children. Kids may purchase a wristband for $10 to have unlimited use of the inflatables. To display art or photography at the festival, call Sarah Jean at 423-972-5007. Event sponsorships are available from $250 to $2,000. Vendor applications are on a table in the narthex, as are information on sponsorships and signups for volunteers. Call co-chairs Mark Sweet at 423-673-3018 or DJ Dalton at 423-588-0150 to get involved.

Anniversaries: Robert and Cynthia Straub (55), Tom and Elizabeth Girton (53), Gary and Roberta Greenway (51)

St. John Paul II, Rutledge

The mission held an Italian dinner and silent-auction fundraiser Aug. 4 to ben-

visit knoxstpatricksparade.com

A 14-day pilgrimage to Catholic England, led by Father Joe Reed and Father Michael Maples, is set for April 17-30, 2024. Sites to be visited include Ampleforth Abbey, Rievaulx Abbey, Durham Cathedral, Whitby Abbey, English Martyrs Church, the Shrine of St. Margaret, York Minster, York Oratory, Coventry Cathedral, Oxford, Stonehenge, Salisbury Cathedral, Winchester Cathedral, London, the Stonor Park country house, London Oratory, Tyburn Tree, Tyburn Convent, Westminster Abbey, Westminster Hall within the Houses of Parliament, Canterbury Cathedral, the Friars-Aylesford Priory, Shrine of the Assumption and St. Simon Stock, Norwich Cathedral, Julian Chapel, and Walsingham Shrine. Double-occupancy price is $4,795 and single-occupancy $6,295. To register, visit stcharlespilgrimages.com/ reed-maples

A Seine River pilgrimage is set for June 9-17, 2024, with an optional pre-tour to Lourdes, home of St. Bernadette, from June 5-10. Pilgrims will visit Paris, Giverny, Lisieux, Rouen, the beaches of Normandy, and more. In Paris, they will see the Eiffel Tower, des Champs-Élysées, and other city highlights during a panoramic tour. Travelers will visit the Chapel of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal on Rue Du Bac, where they will celebrate Mass and have time to visit the gift shop, followed by a walk a short distance to visit St. Vincent de Paul Church. In Rouen, the travelers will retrace the footsteps of St.

efit a youth mission trip. The event honored Ed Zawacki for the work he does for the St. John Paul II community.

St. Patrick, Morristown

Vivian Alonso, formerly St. Patrick’s office assistant, is now taking on the parttime role of bilingual religious-education coordinator.

Montse Soto, part-time bilingual office assistant, is the newest member of the St. Patrick staff.

The Knights of Columbus, in conjunction with Boy Scout Troop 91 at First Methodist Church, conducted a U.S. flag-retirement ceremony Sept. 7.

The Knights are holding a winter-clothing drive for veterans through Sept. 30. Items needed are jackets, sweatpants, sweatshirts, socks, underwear, and hygiene items like toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, and shaving equipment. Drop items in the box in the narthex or in the box at the side entrance near the handicap ramp. Items collected will be delivered to the VA hospital in Johnson City within the first two weeks of October.

Anniversaries: David and Peggy Keller (65), Terry and Sharon Maddix (60), Thomas and Joyce Mecca (56), Graciano and Manuela Morales (40), Thomas and Patti Osucha (40), Chris and Carolyn McDaniel (35), Frederick and Kim Yarid (30), Randall and Cielo Huff (10)

Smoky Mountain Deanery

Holy Ghost, Knoxville

New members of the Parish Pastoral Council are Sherry Morgan, Art Clancy, Maryann Briggs, and Jose Ceballos. Because of Holy Ghost’s recent growth, now totaling 870 families, pastor Father Bill McNeeley has decided to expand the pastoral council’s size to ensure broad representation from across the parish. Starting this year and following, four persons will rotate onto the council, and by 2026, the council will have 12 members.

Immaculate Conception, Knoxville

IC, along with St. Albert the Great Parish, has been providing lunch for the homeless at Volunteer Ministry Center on the last Friday of the month for more than 16 years. For more information, contact Gerry or Carol O’Farrell at 865691-7392 or carolgerry@bellsouth.net

The women’s group’s annual Craft Fair will be held in the parish hall Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 18-19. Those interested in a booth should contact Beth

Joan of Arc. Rouen offers a restored medieval quarter and a Gothic cathedral of Notre Dame, often painted by Claude Monet. After disembarking in the port of Honfleur, the travelers will drive through Normandy to Omaha Beach, where they will see the American Memorial and Cemetery. In Lisieux, home of St. Thérèse, the Little Flower, the group will visit all the places associated with the life of the saint and her parents. Mass will be celebrated at the Basilica of St. Thérèse, followed by a visit to the crypt. The group will also visit the little town of Vernon and take an excursion to the Claude Monet estate in Giverny. The optional pre-tour to Lourdes includes Mass at the basilica, a walking tour of the sanctuary, including the grotto and the basilica, and a video presentation that explains Lourdes’ story in detail. Travelers will have time for private prayer and reflection and join the candlelight procession in the evening. They will celebrate Mass at the grotto, where Our Lady appeared to Bernadette, drink water from the miraculous spring that has healed many, and visit the healing baths. Contact Lisa Morris at 865-5671245 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 and at 6 p.m. most Mondays at St. Mary Church in Johnson City; 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 n

Meyer at 865-456-8857 or meyer. beth73@gmail.com. Fees are again $20 and must be paid in advance.

The parish thanked all who donated toward the cost of a new monstrance. The effort raised $2,440, exceeding the goal.

Sacred Heart, Knoxville

The cathedral held a newcomer’s reception after all Masses on Aug. 20. Participants could learn more about the cathedral parish and its ministries, meet new friends, and hear about upcoming events.

The Cathedral Concert Series continues at 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 17, as the Amadeus Chamber Ensemble choir and orchestra, under the direction of Dr. Howard Skinner, performs selections from “Stabat Mater” and “Messa Solenne” by composer Gioachino Rossini. Concertmaster is Miroslav Hristov. Featured soloists are Rochelle Bard (soprano), Diana Salesky (alto), Aaron Short (tenor), and Stephen Morscheck (bass). Admission is free, but seating is limited; tickets are available at www.shcathedral.org/ cathedral-concert-series/

St. John XXIII, Knoxville

Two Masses for the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation were held Sept. 1 at Immaculate Conception and St. John XXIII Catholic Center.

St. Joseph the Worker, Madisonville

The Knights of Columbus yard sale is set for 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 15, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16. A parishioners-only sale will be held from noon to 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 14. All items of value that are clean and in working order are welcome for donation, including books, clothing, furniture, pictures, decorative items, bedding goods, large and small appliances, power and hand tools, lawn and garden equipment, pots and pans, dishes and utensils, automobiles and auto parts, sporting goods, camping gear, boats and boating equipment, Christmas decorations, electronics, musical instruments, crafts, and toys. Contact any Knight or call Ed Harless at 423-494-4761.

A parents meeting for those who have registered children for religious education will be held at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24, in the church hall. Details about the class calendar, sacrament preparation, and special events will be discussed. Repairs to the beams in front of the church and removal of the concrete sunshades on the side of the church took place Aug. 17-19. n

Fourteenth annual Irish Fest draws 700 to IC

By Dan McWilliams

Alittle rain early on did not stop some 700 people from enjoying the 14th annual Irish Fest on Aug. 12, hosted again by Immaculate Conception Parish in downtown Knoxville.

The event netted more than $10,000 that will be earmarked for capital repairs at IC.

The Irish Fest featured live Irish music; Irish food and beer, including shepherd’s pie, corned beef and cabbage, Reuben sandwiches, and Irish coffee and desserts; a Gaelic games demonstration; and a silent auction that offered trips, Knoxville Ice Bears hockey tickets, pet supplies, a package of Irish whiskey and cigars, a Crowne Plaza downtown hotel getaway, jewelry, purses, artwork, and more.

Two tours of the 137-year-old IC Church were led by Carole Wunderlich during Irish Fest.

Performers at the festival included Red Haired Mary, Knoxville Pipes and Drums, Jeff Nelson, Nancy Brennan Strange and Friends, Four Leaf Peat, the Tennessee Irish Dancers, Tracy Jenkins and Gill Draper, and Wild Blue Yonder

IC pastor Father Charlie Donahue, CSP, said the Irish Fest is “more a community-building event” than anything else.

“There’s a fundraising part to it,” he said. “On the list of important cultural festivals in Knoxville, we’re No. 9. The city’s been great. This is the 14th year, and it’s exciting to be a part of.”

Speaking early in the five-hour event, Father Donahue said the weather made matters “scary there for a while in the beginning, but I’m confident it’s going to pick up through the night.”

IC also held its regular 5 p.m. vigil Mass during the Irish Fest, and the liturgy drew more than the usual 75 or so attendees, Father Donahue said.

The IC pastor said he was “absolutely” pleased about the number of visitors to Irish Fest. He added that “an explosion of apartment buildings” downtown around Market Square has helped his parish grow with new families and “good neighbors.”

Meritt Brown demonstrated hurling at the popular festival.

“It’s an ancient Irish sport. It’s the fastest game on grass. The female version is called camogie,” she said.

Ms. Brown said there is a pub league for hurling that plays at Holston River Park in Knoxville.

“We split our club into two teams, and we play against each other,” she said.

The U.S. Gaelic Athletic Association promotes hurling and other Irish sports, she said.

Ms. Brown described Irish Fest as “fun” to attend.

“This is our second time coming,” she said.

IC parishioner Bobby McCarter and helpers Tim McLaughlin and Teresa Kiser of the parish teamed up to sell beer at the fest, including Guinness, Smithwick’s Irish Ale, Gypsy Circus Cider, and Highland Gaelic Ale.

Business at the booth “started off a little slow because of the rain, but it’s picking up now,” Mr. McCarter said.

He is a big fan of Irish Fest.

“Love it. We’re here every year. Been here eight years now,” Mr. McCarter said.

Knoxville Pipes and Drums did two shows at the festival. Fifteen

performers, including bagpipers, took to the stage with the group. Three different styles of drums were featured: bass drum, flourishing tenor, and snare drum.

Kevin Summers of Knoxville Pipes and Drums was among the performers.

“It’s a lot of fun. It’s a lot of work, but it’s a lot of fun,” he said.

IC’s religious-education ministry had a table at the festival. New parish coordinator of religious education Abby Sporsen helped hand out free stickers and candy to children as she hoped to sign up kids in prekindergarten through 12th grade for the parish’s religious education program.

“We are also having them get a raffle ticket if their parents sign up for an interest letter, just to try to draw in some new kids and get more people involved in both religious ed and youth ministry,” she said. “We’ve had a lot of interest, and we’ve seen a lot of the kids who have been involved before, so we’re excited about reaching out to some new families that we haven’t

met.”

A parishioner of IC since 2005, Ms. Sporsen started as coordinator of religious education in July.

Pete Cunningham and wife Cindy of St. Mary Parish in Oak Ridge, representing the St. Paul Street Evangelization ministry, gave away rosaries, books, and Bibles at the festival. The ministry’s mission includes setting people straight about the Church’s beliefs, Mr. Cunningham said.

“We’re trying to show people that a lot of the beliefs out there are just myths. We tell them that this is the Church that Jesus started, and it’s been going now for over 2,000 years,” he said, adding that he was baptized at St. Mary in 1957, left for a number of years, and has been back at the Oak Ridge parish since 1986. “No, it is not perfect . . . but it’s up to us lay Catholics to tell people just exactly what the Church believes and what our purpose here is. People don’t understand that what we do during this short time on earth plays a major role in how we spend eternity.” n

DAN MCWILLIAMS (7)

High schools kick off 2023 football season

The football teams at Notre Dame High School in Chattanooga and Knoxville Catholic High School played their first games of the 2023 season on Aug. 18. In the top photo, Notre Dame receiver Tay Carter awaits a pass in the Fighting Irish’s 52-30 win over Signal Mountain in their home opener Aug. 25. Notre Dame began the season with a 45-8 loss at Walker Valley in Cleveland and fell to 1-2 after a 49-27 loss at Lakeway Christian in Morristown on Sept. 1. In the bottom photo, KCHS’s Quincy Pannell looks to make a move against two Lakeview Christian players in a 35-0 home win for the Fighting Irish in week one. KCHS continued its strong start with a 40-13 victory at Brevard, N.C., on Aug. 25 and a 35-8 triumph over visiting St. John Paul II of Huntsville, Ala., on Sept. 1.

Notre Dame High School names

Brian Gill as new athletics director

Notre Dame High School in Chattanooga announced that Brian Gill has accepted its invitation to serve as athletics director.

Formerly the head age group coach and swim director at Baylor School in Chattanooga, Mr. Gill officially joined Notre Dame on Aug. 11. He will be responsible for the oversight of the athletic department.

For the past 16 years, Mr. Gill has been at Baylor, where he managed, marketed, and coached for the school swim and club programs. He helped develop Baylor into one of the top swimming programs in the country. As the head age group coach, his athletes and teams earned many accolades, including being named Southeastern Swimming champions, Southeastern middle school team champions, and numerous Southeastern Swimming Zone Team members.

Before working at Baylor, Mr. Gill was the head age group coach for the Raleigh Swimming Association in Raleigh, N.C. He helped expand the association’s program from 120 swimmers to 280 swimmers in four years.

Mr. Gill graduated from Appalachian State University in 2002 with a degree in communications, broadcasting, and electronic media. During his collegiate career, he had various internships within the athletics department.

“We are thrilled to have Coach Gill on board,” said Deacon Hicks Armor, Notre Dame head of school. “His expertise and knowledge will be a vital asset to the success of our athletics program.”

Joining Mr. Gill as the new associate athletics director is Jonathan Adams. Mr. Adams has been with Notre Dame for six years as a member of the faculty and the boys basketball head coach. Under his leadership, Notre Dame won the 2022 and 2023 district championships and made school history as the 2023 state runner-up. Mr. Adams will be assisting Mr. Gill as well as coordinating and supervising the coaching staff. n

Back to school at St. Joseph and St. Mary-Oak Ridge

The new school year began Aug. 7 at St. Joseph School in Knoxville and St. Mary School in Oak Ridge. In the top photo, Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs greets arriving students on day one at St. Joseph, including sixth-grader Mary Jade Njoroge. Principal Andy Zengel stands at right. In the bottom photo, St. MaryOak Ridge pastor Father Ray Powell and his dog, Jonah, welcomes students back to school. Pictured are Magnolia Cleveland (left), Madelaine Cleveland, and their mother, Jennifer Warren.

Knoxville Catholic welcomes new faculty

Knoxville Catholic High School has a number of new faculty members for the 202324 school year. From left are (front) Maryann Appert, English; Hannah Seaver Logan ‘12, yearbook, softball; Philip Shadowens, social sciences, football; Matt Schaller, science, assistant athletics director; Josh Martin, economics, soccer; Kathleen Rizy ‘03, English; Alessandra Mitchell, Spanish; and Carol Slatas, freshman counselor; and (back) Ivan Phillips, physical education, football; Bob Kronenberg, business, football; Alex Rice, substitute, football; Gabe Blair, PE, basketball; Angie Lucier, math; John Laney, religion; and Ed Reilly, religion.

Blessed Sacrament youth completes Eagle Scout project

Isaac O’Rourke of Blessed Sacrament Parish in Harriman recently completed his Eagle Scout project, which involved refinishing the five doors in the church foyer; removing a broken water fountain; and assembling and installing a table, bench, bulletin board, and sign. The project made the area much more welcoming. The bench provides a place for people to sit while waiting for the bathroom. People can use the bulletin board for notes, and the table provides a place for signup sheets. Twenty-four people, including Isaac, put in 210 hours on the project. Isaac hopes to receive his Eagle Award next spring.

Four join Notre Dame faculty Notre Dame High School in Chattanooga welcomed four new faculty members for the 2023-24 school year. From left are English instructor Joe Winland, director of student life and strategic initiatives Laura Goodhard, administrative assistant Selina Trouy, and director of athletics Brian Gill.

DR. KELLY KEARSE

Brian Gill

COURTESY OF PAM RHOADES

COURTESY OF NOTRE DAME HIGH SCHOOL