Dec. 6, 2015, ET Catholic by Diocese of Knoxville

This issue

He dwells among us ................ 2 Diocesan calendar ................. 15 Deanery news ........................ 16 La Cosecha ......... center pullout

The East Tennessee

Catholic schools.......................20 Columns...................................34 Virtus training...........................36 Penance services.....................39

December 6, 2015 Volume 25 Number 2 Bishop Richard F. Stika

News from The Diocese of Knoxville • Visit us at dioknox.org or etcatholic.org

Be a Man! Fr. Larry Richards schools diocesan men

Community Matters St. Mary Oak Ridge leads city-wide public forum

Going homeless All Saints youth visit life on the street

‘We stand on the shoulders of many’ St. Thérèse of Lisieux Parish celebrates a century of Catholicism in Cleveland, looks forward to the future

St. Thérèse continued on page 13

JIM WOGAN

ong before the Diocese of Knoxville existed, back when the seeds of Catholicism were starting to sprout roots in the spiritual soil of East Tennessee, Father Paul Hostettler was helping nurture the crop. And keeping the rats away. Father Hostettler was appointed pastor at the Church of the Resurrection in Cleveland in 1958, and he quickly discovered that he wasn’t the only full-time resident at the parish. “The Church of the Resurrection (built in 1914) was downtown, behind the post office, on a very small piece of property. It was just a little wooden church with a two-story wooden rectory that was … full of rats,” he recalled while laughing. “I wouldn’t sleep upstairs because I could hear rats running through the wall. I slept on the couch down in the living room.” The Church of the Resurrection is gone. So are the rats. Father Hostettler, 92, and living in Nashville, is now retired. Thanks to him, and many other devoted clergy and hardworking laypeople over the decades, the Catholic Church in Bradley County is still growing. Parishioners at St. Thérèse of Lisieux, which was built to replace the Church of the Resurrection, recently celebrated 100 years of Catholicism in their community.

By Jim Wogan

Blessings from above Father Mike Nolan, pastor of St. Thérèse of Lisieux Parish in Cleveland, blesses Amy and Brian McGanahan and their young charges during Communion. “We’re the best Catholic church in Bradley County. It’s not bragging. It’s just fact, because we’re the only one,” Father Nolan said. “So what we make of it is up to us. What we are is God’s gift to us. What we become is our gift to God.”

The Diocese of Knoxville Living our Roman Catholic faith in East Tennessee

He dwells among us

by Bishop Richard F. Stika

Bishop’s schedule

Making our way home

These are some of Bishop Stika’s public appointments:

The doors of mercy are open wide to receive us as we enter this Jubilee Year

magine what would have happened if the innkeeper in Bethlehem, instead of turning Mary and St. Joseph away, had welcomed them into his home and said, “Tell me about yourselves.” Had he done so and offered up his own room to them, he might have become one of the most celebrated saints. Advent is a special time when the Church reminds us that we are all innkeepers, and to not be afraid to open wide the door of our heart and to give room to Christ and to all who knock upon our heart’s door. “Where are you from?” St. Lucia asked this question of the Blessed Mother when Mary appeared to her and her cousins, Francisco and Jacinta, in Fatima, Portugal, nearly 100 years ago. “I am from heaven,” Mary responded. I also like to ask this question of people, and it’s interesting to hear their replies. Some mention where they were born and their hometown, others say their parish or diocese, and even some tell of the country where they were born. But as diverse as the places are that we now call home, there is another home that we should all

Diocesan policy for reporting sexual abuse

Follow Bishop Richard Stika on Twitter @bishopstika and on Facebook for news and events from around the Diocese of Knoxville. hope to be able to say is ours in the life to come—heaven. On Dec. 14, I celebrate the 30th anniversary of my ordination to the priesthood. I sometimes have been asked when it was that I knew I was called to be a priest. It may surprise many to know that I didn’t go to the seminary with the express intention of becoming a priest so much as it was for the purpose of proving to myself that I wasn’t actually called to be one. As I contemplated God’s will for me during this time, I felt Him asking me in prayer—“Tell me about yourself.” It was not that God didn’t already know everything there was to know about me, but by sharing with Him my fears and anxieties, my thoughts and questions, I began to open up my heart to Him more and more. And in doing so, I began to experience the Church as a home, and par-

■ Nov. 29-Dec. 2: Province meeting in Memphis

ticularly as God’s family on a pilgrim journey to its heavenly home. This is when I began to realize that I was being called to serve the family of God as a priest and to help people get to their home in heaven. A lot has changed since my ordination, and my outlook has changed quite a bit, too, over the years. But through it all, the Church has been and remains for me a source of constancy and stability. Sometimes people fear that the Church is wavering, that she will water down her doctrine and lose her precious treasures. But here we must have confidence, for the truths of our faith are unchanging. What continues to change in the Church’s 2,000-year history is her ability to speak the language of faith with greater fluency and more precise vocabulary. Through the Holy Spirit, the Church is able to discern new presentations of the same dogma of teaching that was given to the Apostles. This is one of the reasons why Pope Francis has called for a special Jubilee Year of Mercy beginning Dec. 8. He wants to express in ever clearer terms the love and mercy of God.

The East Tennessee

■ Dec. 4: Finance Council meeting at the Chancery ■ Dec. 5: 2 p.m., DYMAC Snack ’n Chat at the bishop’s residence ■ Dec. 6: 10 a.m., Mass for the beginning of the Jubilee Year of Mercy at the Church of Divine Mercy in Knoxville ■ Dec. 8: Catholic Athletes for Christ event in Nashville ■ Dec. 9: Visit to Our Lady of Perpetual Help School in Chattanooga ■ Dec. 9: 6 p.m. Scrolls Mass and dinner for the Equestrian Order of the Knights and Ladies of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem at the bishop’s residence ■ Dec. 10: 360 Degrees of Hope Catholic Charities luncheon at the Knoxville Marriott ■ Dec. 11: Luncheon with diocesan priests ordained for two years at the Chancery ■ Dec. 12: Mary, Mother of Mercy Convent blessing in Knoxville ■ Dec. 14-16: Papal Foundation board meeting in Washington, D.C.

Schedule continued on page 36

Bishop continued on page 3

Bishop Richard F. Stika Publisher

Bill Brewer Editor

Dan McWilliams

Emily Booker

Anyone who has actual knowlAssistant editor Communications edge of or who has reasonable specialist 805 S. Northshore Drive • Knoxville, TN 37919 cause to suspect an incident of The Diocese of Knoxville sexual abuse should report such The East Tennessee Catholic (USPS 007211) is published bi-monthly by The Diocese of Knoxville, 805 S. Northshore Drive, information to the appropriate Knoxville, TN 37919-7551. Periodicals-class postage paid at Knoxville, Tenn. Printed on recycled paper by the Knoxville News Sentinel. civil authorities first, then to the The East Tennessee Catholic is mailed to all registered Catholic families in East Tennessee. Subscription rate for others is $15 a year bishop’s office, 865-584-3307, or in the United States. Make checks payable to The Diocese of Knoxville. the diocesan victims’ assistance coordinator, Marla Lenihan, 865Postmaster: Send address changes to The East Tennessee Catholic, 805 S. Northshore Drive, Knoxville, TN 37919-7551 Reach us by phone: 865-584-3307 • fax: 865-584-8124 • e-mail: webmaster@dioknox.org • web: dioknox.org 482-1388. ■

2 December 6, 2015

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Be a Man! EWTN’s Fr. Larry Richards pounds the message home Bishop Stika hosts retreat, celebrates Mass for diocesan men who get a crash course in being better servants of Christ

Bishop continued from page 2

As Pope Francis reminds us, Christ rejected sin, but never rejected the sinner. The greatest sadness is being a sinner and not caring. The greatThe East Tennessee Catholic

SCOTT MAENTZ

Tour de force Father Larry Richards delivers his presentation during a daylong men’s retreat Nov. 21 at the Historic Tennessee Theatre.

offered guidance on strengthening prayer life, marriage, and the men’s roles as sons, fathers, and husbands, and as followers of Christ. Father Richards is pastor of St. Joseph Church and the Bread of Life Community in Erie, Pa., and also hosts the EWTN radio shows “The

Reason For Our Hope” and “Open Line” as well as the Relevant Radio program “Changed Forever with Father Larry Richards.” In addition, he is founder of The Reason For Our Hope Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to spreading the Good News by educat-

SCOTT MAENTZ

ather Larry Richards is all about love. Tough love. His unbridled approach to spreading the Gospel is more akin to a contact sport than “a tiptoe through the tulips.” His homiletic style is intentionally devoid of touchy, feely catechesis. His catechesis is hard-charging. But make no mistake, his directive to Catholic males that each one step up and “be a man” hinges on love, forgiveness, compassion and mercy. It’s a command delivered with a velvet boxing glove — and humor. Father Richards led the Diocese of Knoxville’s men’s retreat called “Be a Man! In the Image of Jesus” on Nov. 21 at the Historic Tennessee Theatre in downtown Knoxville. The retreat attracted some 300 men from across the diocese ranging from teenage sons to fathers and grandfathers. Bishop Richard F. Stika hosted the retreat and took part in a questionand-answer session with Father Richards during the day-long event that featured a concluding Mass. With a mischievous smile, Father Richards told the attendees that his speaking style is to “shock” people, giving ample evidence of how he has put his own stamp on the New Evangelization. “I make people laugh, and I punch you in the stomach. Then I make people laugh, and I punch you in the stomach,” he said. “I’m not a tiptoe-through-the-tulips guy,” he added, while preaching about the steps men need to take in fulfilling God’s plan for them. In addition to instruction on forgiveness, mercy and love, Father Richards also

In the image of Jesus Bishop Richard F. Stika celebrates the closing Mass at

the men’s retreat. Concelebrating was Father Pontian Kiyimba.

est joy is in confessing that we are a sinner and in opening our hearts to God’s healing grace. The greatest peace awaits those who accept God’s merciful love and His challenge to go

and sin no more! It is my fervent prayer during this Advent season that you will make greater room for Jesus in the “inn” of your heart, and make more firmly

The Diocese of Knoxville Living our Roman Catholic faith in East Tennessee

By Bill Brewer

ing others about Jesus Christ and the Catholic faith through CDs, DVDs and books. He authored the books Be a Man! Becoming the Man God Created You to Be, which has been a top seller for Ignatius Press, and Surrender! The Life-Changing Power of Doing God’s Will for Our Sunday Visitor. He released a Catholic men’s Bible for Our Sunday Visitor and a Scripture devotional calendar titled No Bible, No Breakfast! No Bible, No Bed! Bishop Stika, who kiddingly introduced Father Richards as Keith Richards, complimented the Pennsylvania priest on inspiring Diocese of Knoxville men to be better examples of Christ. Bishop Stika even referred to the “Be a Man!” message during his own homily to close the retreat. “I think Father Richards is doing a great job,” Bishop Stika said toward the end of the program. And when Bishop Stika asked the men in attendance if they liked the retreat and its speaker, both received a standing ovation. As evidenced by the titles of his multimedia programs and products, Father Richards is open and optimistic about his faith, which is tinged with an in-your-face presentation designed to engage readers and listeners and provoke thought. His presentation is steeped in personal experiences, from being the son of police officers in Pittsburgh and pastor of an inner city parish in Erie to being a high school chaplain, a counselor, and an evangelist. His tough approach as a Catholic life coach might resemble that of football’s Vince Lombardi, Nick Saban, Jim Harbaugh, or Butch Jones more

Retreat continued on page 14

your home in the Church. In the name of Cardinal Rigali, and of all our priests, deacons and religious, I wish you a blessed Advent and a Merry Christmas. ■ December 6, 2015 3

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St. Mary Parish in Oak Ridge leads Community Matters public forums Father Brent Shelton joins pastors at neighboring churches in hosting town hall meetings aimed at bringing city together

BILL BREWER

lack lives matter. Young lives matter. Police lives matter. All lives matter. As those mantras reached a crescendo around the country in recent months, the city of Oak Ridge — through the cooperation of three pastors including St. Mary Parish’s Father Brent Shelton — has been the site of a series of town hall meetings to show that “Community Matters.” The public discussion began several weeks ago when an Oak Ridge Unitarian Universalist Church sign along the Oak Ridge Turnpike said “Black Lives Matter,” mirroring sentiments expressed in communities across the nation. The sign provoked responses, including public displays saying ‘Police Lives Matter,” which prompted Father Shelton, Oak Ridge Unitarian Universalist senior minister Jake Morrill, and Rev. Derrick Hammond of Oak Valley Baptist Church in the Scarboro community of Oak Ridge to host town hall meetings at each pastor’s church to discuss what unites the Oak Ridge community as well as what divides it. The first town hall meeting was hosted by Father Shelton at St. Mary on Oct. 11. The second town hall meeting was hosted by Rev. Hammond at Oak Valley Baptist, and the third town hall meeting was hosted by Rev. Morrill at Oak Ridge Unitarian Universalist on Nov. 1.

Community dialogue Oak Ridge residents raise questions at St. Mary Church during the first of three town hall meetings held at churches around the city.

“The ultimate goal is to provide a forum for people to voice their concerns. What we’ll do is provide a summary of these concerns and we’ll apply the wisdom of our faith traditions to these concerns to see what emerges.” — Father Brent Shelton

Each community meeting attracted about 100 people, ranging from residents and activists to representatives from local government and the Oak Ridge Police Department, including Oak Ridge Police Chief James T. Akagi. Rev. Hammond said steps needed to be taken “to bring this community together,” so the three pastors decided to delve into the issues in three public forums to reach as many

community residents as possible and seek “inspiration, perspiration, and collaboration.” “The goal was for three pastors to bring people together so they could voice their personal insights into race relations, police relations, and community relations,” Father Shelton said. “I would say that is exactly what happened, and I think it was successful. I think there were expressions of frustration, but also there were com-

By Bill Brewer

ments of practical solutions ranging from psychology to community block grants.” Much of the discussion at the town hall meetings involved community issues other than race relations and police. Opportunities for youth, schools, economic development, and the need for social and health-care programs for the elderly and mentally ill were among the other issues raised. Father Shelton said the diversity of issues discussed reflects the theme of the public meetings: Community Matters. “The ultimate goal is to provide a forum for people to voice their concerns. What we’ll do is provide a summary of these concerns, and we’ll apply the wisdom of our faith traditions to these concerns to see what emerges,” he added. Chief Akagi was invested in the town hall meetings, listening intently, taking notes, responding to questions and sharing his thoughts. The police chief expressed support for building relations between his officers and the community and said the town hall meetings were a good way to begin that process. “This is a movement that is not government or official in nature. It’s a grassroots movement that started with three diverse ministers with three diverse groups of parishioners. A lot of this is just talking about it. I’m Community continued on page 9

Workshop teaches biblical justice in addressing community issues Diocese of Knoxville parishioners join members of other local congregations at faith-based meeting

redatory lending, poverty, joblessness and lack of access to insurance were among the topics addressed Oct. 31 at a social justice workshop for Knox County churches attended by members of several Diocese of Knoxville parishes. Citing sacred Scripture that calls The East Tennessee Catholic

for political and economic justice and equality for all people, pastors from around Knox County, including Father Rich Andre, associate pastor of St. John XXIII University Parish and Catholic Center, shared ideas and experiences they believe could play a role in promoting social justice.

More than 200 people gathered at Mount Zion Baptist Church on Brooks Avenue for the workshop, which preached biblical justice and solutions to social issues based on God’s teachings. Father Andre discussed his affiliation with an organization called BREAD while he was a seminarian

The Diocese of Knoxville Living our Roman Catholic faith in East Tennessee

By Bill Brewer

serving at Ohio State University’s St. Thomas More Newman Center. Building Responsibility, Equality And Dignity is a network of more than 50 faith communities in that region of Ohio that work together on social justice issues. Father Andre said each year

Justice continued on page 11 December 6, 2015 5

All Saints youth experience lesson on poverty firsthand Cardboard city, work with KARM, Second Harvest, Operation Backyard are part of parish project

6 December 6, 2015

EMILY BOOKER

All Saints’ Cardboard City Youth members taking part in All Saints Church’s Life on the Streets project prepare their cardboard shelters to house them for two nights on the All Saints-Knoxville Catholic High School campus.

to actually see the shelter and interact with the people there. “Part of [KARM’s] philosophy is that they want both their guests and their volunteers to have a positive encounter. They also want to infuse an encounter with Christ in everything they do.…They say that they want to provide an environment of overwhelming biblical hospitality,” said Ms. Nassis, who noted that the youth engaged with the program Every Bed, Every Day during their visit. “It’s a really incredible program,” Ms. Nassis said. “They have church groups or volunteers pray over each of the beds at the shelter every day. So what we did was have the kids make cards to Homeless continued on page 24

EMILY BOOKER

earning about homelessness meant actually living it for several All Saints Parish youth. The annual Life on the Streets Retreat Oct. 23-25 focused on learning more about what it means to be homeless and on helping the local homeless population of Knoxville. Forty-three youth slept outside in cardboard boxes for two nights and participated in service projects at Knoxville Area Rescue Ministries, Second Harvest Food Bank, and Operation Backyard. Participants were only allowed to bring a sleeping bag, a toothbrush, and the clothes on their back plus one additional piece of clothing because the project was designed to simulate a homeless situation. Upon arrival, they had their bags checked for contraband, as would happen at a shelter. They constructed shelter out of cardboard boxes. Norma Carrillo, a high school freshman, said, “Sleeping in a box at night makes you put yourself in others’ shoes. That’s their everyday life. You learn how to be thankful for what you do have.” On Saturday, the youth worked with several local agencies to conduct service projects that dealt with homelessness, hunger, and poverty in Knoxville. One group served snacks at the shelter. Others worked in the KARM thrift store in Lenoir City and the Christmas store in Knoxville. Proceeds from the stores go back to the shelter. Another group worked with Second Harvest Food Bank. Another worked with Operation Backyard to paint a woman’s house. KARM provides about 1,000 meals a day and shelter for nearly 400 people every night. Annie Nassis, director of youth ministry at All Saints, explained that it was important for the youth

By Emily Booker

Life on the street An All Saints teen writes about his experience sleeping outdoors in a cardboard box and taking part in service projects to assist the homeless.

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Baby bottles prove to be a valuable tool in promoting life ‘Crazy fun’ fundraiser at St. Mary in Johnson City benefits Catholic Charities’ pregnancy help centers

EMILY BOOKER

hat better way to promote life than through a fundraiser using baby bottles during Respect Life Month? And who better to assist in the fundraiser than Catholic Charities of East Tennessee? The Respect Life Committee at St. Mary Church in Johnson City motivated the entire parish to get involved in pro-life activities. Since October was Respect Life Month, the committee used that time to bring more awareness and raise donations for pro-life issues. “It seemed like the perfect month to reflect on the value of life from conception through the elderly,” said Carolyn Merriman of the church’s Respect Life Committee. “We had different posters that we had up throughout the month that reflected that, too, in English and

Counting baby bottles Carolyn Merriman, left, and Mary Meeks show the baby

bottles full of money that they have collected as part of a fundraiser to benefit Catholic Charities of East Tennessee.

Spanish. The [campaign] backdrop was our posters that showed

FOR LOVE ALWAYS PROTECTS…

1 Corinthians 13:7

children and elders hugging each other and Pope Francis embracing

By Emily Booker

a child. We tried to make it very comprehensive.” The committee conducted a babybottle fundraiser to support pregnancy help centers run by Catholic Charities of East Tennessee. The centers provide counseling, parenting classes, medical and legal referrals, and other assistance for couples and individuals. According to Ms. Merriman, who spearheaded the drive, “The three different umbrellas under our Respect Life Committee were prayer, service, and education. For the service part, we thought that one of the things that we could do was a fundraiser for the pregnancy help center.” The committee handed out 400 baby bottles to parishioners, youth group members, and students at St.

Bottles continued on page 26

Sunday, January 24 2:00 PM

954 World’s Fair Park Drive

Take a stand for LIFE! A time of prayer to end abortion and call our city back to life. Followed by a short March. Sponsored by: Tennessee Right to Life, Knox County 689-1339 trlknox@trlknox.com or www.trlknox.org

The East Tennessee Catholic

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December 6, 2015 7

Veterans Day 2015 has special meaning at Our Lady of Fatima Parish becomes first in diocese to have a Catholic War Veterans of the United States of America post

By Bill Brewer

Alcoa. OLOF will be the first parish in the Diocese of Knoxville to have a Catholic War Veterans of the United States of America post. Eleven veterans who attend Our Lady of Fatima were sworn in as officers of Post 1973 on Oct. 24, among the newest Catholic War Veterans posts in the country. Arminda Crawford, commander of the national veterans organization and the first woman to serve as commander of the Catholic War Veterans, installed the OLOF officers. She was accompanied by her husband, George Crawford, who is national director of the CWVUSA. In swearing in the OLOF veterans, Commander Crawford said, “Your fellow veterans have shown their confidence in your executive ability by electing you to office. Familiarize yourselves with the duties of your particular office and proceed upon those duties in a Catholic spirit. The welfare and success of the unit of Catholic war veterans depends on you. Public opinion is everything. With it, nothing can fail. Without it, nothing can succeed. It is your solemn duty to protect the good name of the Catholic War Veterans and to make known its policies and purpose. Memorize the preamble of the national department’s constitution and keep in mind our five principals of unity, justice, tranquility, welfare, and liberty.” She then administered the oath to OLOF members Deacon Ken Long, Tim Brown, John Morse, Angela Feltz, Baron Johnson, Wil Wellman, Mike Wilson, Dan Hall, George LeCrone, Pat Flanagan, and Carl Muse. Deacon Long will serve as commander of the post, with Mr. Brown serving as first vice commander, Mr. Morse as second vice commander,

8 December 6, 2015

BILL BREWER

eterans Day hit a little closer to home this year at Our Lady of Fatima Parish in

Continuing to serve Members of the new Catholic War Veterans of the United States of America post are shown during the installation ceremony at Our Lady of Fatima Church in Alcoa on Oct. 24. Post 1973 is among the newest for the national military organization.

Ms. Feltz as third vice commander, Mr. Johnson as adjutant, Mr. Wellman as treasurer, Mr. Wilson as historian, Mr. Hall as welfare officer, Mr. LeCrone as officer of the day, and Mr. Flanagan as trustee/ director. They then repeated the words, “On my honor as a Catholic citizen and armed forces veteran I promise, without reservation, to uphold the Constitution of the United States, to obey its laws and defend its flag against all its enemies whomsoever. I further promise upon my honor to uphold the constitution and bylaws of Catholic War Veterans of the USA and to fulfill the duties of my office to the best of my ability, that at no time will I introduce for membership any who are not entitled thereto, and

that I will not at any time, through word or deed, bring discredit to the organization.” Deacon Ken Long then delivered his first official remarks to the new post officers, urging them to come together as a unit as they did when they were active military. “I need all of your help. I can’t do it alone. We’re a unit; we work together. Working together, we’ll make this bigger, better, and stronger. We’re the flagship for Tennessee. I think we’re the flagship for the South, just about. Looking at the list, it’s Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky and Tennessee that did not have a post. We need to work on the other ones. Help us. This will be a great organization with everybody’s help. I am honored to have been

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elected your commander,” Deacon Long said. In the military, Commander Crawford served in the Women’s Army Corps in communications from 196668 at Fort Gordon, Ga. Mr. Crawford served in the Army in Vietnam from 1966-68. The Crawfords, who are from Columbus, Ohio, said the Catholic War Veterans group, which is based in Alexandria, Va., was founded in 1935 and chartered in 1984 by President Ronald Reagan. The couple was excited about traveling to Alcoa to install a new post. “We were invited to come. Ken had been talking to our executive director in Alexandria, Va., where our headquarters currently are. Our director said a new post was being

Veterans continued on page 25 dioknox.org

Pope eyes Year of Mercy for Blessed Teresa canonization By Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY — The Vatican calendar for the Year of Mercy deliberately set aside Sept. 4, 2016, as a possible date for the canonization of Blessed Teresa of Kolkata, if her sainthood cause is concluded by then. The canonization would be celebrated by Pope Francis in St. Pe-

ter’s Square at the end of a threeday pilgrimage of people who, like Blessed Teresa was, are engaged in corporal works of mercy. “Sept. 4 is a hypothesis or plan within the calendar for the jubilee year,” Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, Vatican spokesman, told Catholic News Service Nov. 19. The Italian news agency AGI re-

ported Nov. 18 that a panel of physicians convoked by the Congregation for Saints’ Causes agreed there was no medical or natural explanation for the recovery of a Brazilian man suffering from multiple brain tumors. His healing after prayers for the intercession of Blessed Teresa was submitted as the miracle needed for her

canonization. Father Lombardi urged caution, however. “The process is still underway, and official communications will be given at the appropriate time.” Members of the Congregation for Saints’ Causes still must review the physicians’ report on the

Community continued from page 5

awareness and making bold declarations. But then there must come a time to go deeper than this; a time to move from awareness to action, from declaration to dialogue, from slogans to solutions,” Rev. Hammond wrote, inviting the Oak Ridge community to the public forums. Rev. Hammond said he was pleased with response to the town hall meetings, both in attendance and dialogue. He believes a key goal of the meetings, for people to learn from one another, was accomplished. “I thought it went well. I thought it served the purpose for which we came together, and that purpose is to gather actionable information that we, as a faith community, can follow up on as it relates to our service to this community and use it as a measure to how we are serving the community. I’m absolutely positive we got that,” Rev. Hammond said. When community tensions escalated because of the different signs, Rev. Hammond said he, Father Shelton, and Rev. Morrill began looking at ways to diffuse the situation and asked, “How can we address this?” “The issue is becoming a distraction. We needed to de-escalate the situation very strategically. We came together and worked as a team to address this situation,” Rev. Hammond added. Rev. Morrill said he is cautiously optimistic the town hall meetings will lead to solutions to ease community tensions and improve ways of life. He is heartened by the dialogue

from a diverse group of residents. “I understand this is an initial phase of raising shared understanding and creating a space for the community’s diverse perspective to be heard with

respect, and I believe dialogue will not be the last step. We’ve heard some excellent ideas put forward. I believe dialogue is the necessary first step,” Rev. Morrill said. ■

here to listen. That’s my role. I’m not a facilitator,” the chief said, referring to his status at the community forums. Responding to some of the issues brought up during the St. Mary town hall meeting, Chief Akagi said he would like to see more community involvement in reaching at-risk youth and would like to see more details regarding citizen review panels or citizen advisory boards for the police department. “There’s no magic silver bullet that will solve everything. It starts with the community, one block at a time,” he said. In an October guest column in the Oak Ridger newspaper, Rev. Hammond said that “painful conversations about race across our country have continued in Baltimore, Minneapolis, Dallas, Charleston, and now Oak Ridge” in the wake of strife in Ferguson, Mo., late last year and earlier this year. The “painful conversations” prompted a response from Oak Ridge clergy. In the column, Rev. Hammond recalled saying in late 2014 that “We, the faith community, look forward to partnering in 2015 to foster holistic, long-term, and systemic solutions to the complex set of social, economic, and community challenges that plague our great society.” The town hall meetings are an effort to achieve that goal. “As a student of American history, and especially African American history, I observe that significant change often requires a season of raising The East Tennessee Catholic

Pope continued on page 24

SACRED HEART CATHOLIC SCHOOL CULLMAN, ALABAMA JOB OPENING: SCHOOL PRINCIPAL ESSENTIAL CHARACTERISTICS

 LEADERSHIP – Build a nurturing Christ-centered climate that fosters communication and collegiality. Demonstrate moral integrity. Embody the mission of the school and Catholic education.  DEVELOPMENT – Ensure faith and professional development of faculty, staff, students, families and self. Work with the faculty to ensure an academically rigorous, faith integrated curriculum.  MANAGEMENT – Maintain the budget. Increase enrollment through recruitment and retention. Market the school in the parish and the community. Provide day-to-day oversight of the operation of the school in accordance with the mission.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

 Is a practicing Catholic and active in the parish community.  Has a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration.  Is eligible for Alabama certification or is willing to seek certification within one year of selection.  Has 3 – 5 years experience in educational administration, preferably in Catholic schools.

INTERESTED AND QUALIFIED CANDIDATES SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING

 Letter of introduction addressing the requirements listed above.  Resume.  Three (3) professional references with addresses, telephone numbers and e-mail addresses.  Statement addressing your philosophy of education and the value of today’s Catholic elementary school.

Applications should be submitted by close of business, 11 December 2015, to the following:

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Sacred Heart Catholic Church Attn: Philip Frappaolo Principal Search Committee 205 3rd Avenue SE Cullman, AL 35055 E-Mail: pfrappaolo@sacredheartchurchcullman.org

December 6, 2015 9

10 December 6, 2015

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Celebrating St. Teresa of Avila

he Knoxville Carmelite Secular Community of the Transfiguration hosted a birthday party for St. Teresa on Oct. 3, beginning with Mass at Sacred Heart Cathedral celebrated by Bishop Richard F. Stika. Father John Dowling, who is spiritual assistant to the Seculars, concelebrated the Mass. In celebration of St. Teresa of Avila’s 500th birthday (1515-2015), members of the Discalced Carmelite family around the world have been offering the following prayer for three years: St. Teresa of Jesus, holy mother, wholehearted servant of love, teach us to walk with determined fidelity along the path of interior prayer, attentive to the presence

of the Blessed Trinity, the Lord, dwelling deep within us. At the school of Mary our Mother, strengthen within us these foundations: a genuine humility, a heart free from attachment, and an unconditional love for others. Share with us your intense apostolic love for the Church. May Jesus be our joy, our hope and our energy, an unquenchable fountain and our most intimate Friend. Bless our Carmelite family. Teach us, make your prayer our own: “I am Yours; I was born for You; What is Your will for me?” Amen. A birthday luncheon and exhibit folCarmelites continued on page 12

COURTESY OF KATHY DEWINE

Knoxville Carmelite Secular Community marks renowned saint’s 500th birthday with cathedral Mass celebrated by Bishop Stika

Carmelite family Bishop Richard F. Stika is shown with members of the Knoxville Carmelite Secular Community of the Transfiguration.

BREAD and organizations like it in cities around the country have meetings to discuss issues important to those communities. “Those results are floated up to this big network, and then these 50 faith communities pick an issue to pursue that year,” Father Andre said, noting that a committee researches the issue and then works with political leaders to effect change. He cited three examples where religious-based social justice groups brought about change. In Jacksonville, Fla., ICARE, or Interfaith Coalition for Action, Reconciliation and Empowerment, came up with an effective alternative called restorative justice that kept students out of the court system for infractions at school. In Columbus, Ohio, BREAD worked to get predatory lending legislation passed that reduced interest rates charged by payday lenders from 400 percent to 28 percent, affecting 500,000 families dependent on the payday lending industry. The East Tennessee Catholic

BILL BREWER

Justice continued from page 5

Preaching biblical justice Father Rich Andre, CSP, associate pastor at St. John XXIII University Parish, discusses social justice programs that are faith-based.

And in Lexington, Ky., where one in four households couldn’t afford adequate housing, BUILD, or Building a United Interfaith Lexington through Direct-Action, worked with Fayette County in getting $2 million committed annually for a housing trust fund to assist low-income residents. Rev. Joseph Owens, pastor of Shiloh Baptist Church in Lexington, delivered the keynote address titled

“God’s Plan for the City and What Happened” and told attendees that one person and one church congregation can’t fix broken systems, but change is possible when people work together. “Will you stand in the breach or will you be silent? Will you help repair the walls? Will you hold the political, economic and religious systems accountable to do God’s will in building the city of God?

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Don’t give up. God is going to hold all of us accountable for what we do with his systems,” Rev. Owens said. Other speakers at the workshop were Rev. Tom Ogburn of First Baptist Church, Rev. Johnnie Skinner of Mt. Zion Baptist, Rev. George Young of the Episcopal Diocese of East Tennessee, Jessica Bocangel of the Compassion Coalition, Elder Chris Battle of Tabernacle Baptist Church, Rev. John Mark Wiggers of St. James Episcopal Church, and Rev. Amy Figg of St. John’s Lutheran Church. Father Andre urged those at the workshop to continue working together for all those in the community. “We can do this, friends. We don’t know exactly how we’re going to get there. But that’s the thing if you’re a person of faith; you can set your trust in God and say you believe in the Holy Spirit. But today is the day for us to trust, and to work together to see where the Holy Spirit leads us,” Father Andre told the group. “Together we can do what we cannot do apart.” ■ December 6, 2015 11

Carmelites continued from page 11

lowed at the Chancery. The prayer offers a reminder to St. Teresa’s sons and daughters in Carmel of their vocation to be prayer at the heart of the Church, and good friends of Jesus, and summarizes the vocation to the Discalced Carmelite Order. The Knoxville Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites of the Transfiguration was officially erected as a “community” Sept. 7, 2014, at St. John Neumann Church in Farragut. The local Carmelite group had its beginnings more than 15 years ago with just a few members. Now, having received approval by the Prior General of the Discalced Brothers of the Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel in Rome, the diocesan Carmelite group has more than 20 members. The Order of Discalced Carmelites, commonly known as Carmelites, had its origins formally in the 13th century when its rule of life was given by St. Albert of Jerusalem. Spanish saints Teresa of Jesus and John of the Cross, both Doctors of the Church and especially noted for their teaching on prayer, were reformers of the Order in the 16th century. St. Thérèse of Lisieux, proclaimed a Doctor of the Church in 1997 by St. John Paul II, 100 years after her death, is another well-known Carmelite. Friars, nuns and secular members of the Order have as their models Our Lady of Mount Carmel and the prophet Elijah, in devotion to prayer, contemplation, and service to the Church. In 1554, before an image of Ecce Homo (the wounded Christ), St. Teresa experienced a radical conversion of spirit that led to her courageous reform. She named her first foundation for St. Joseph, whom she asked to be protector of the new Order. There were 13 nuns in that first monastery in Avila, Spain. With St. John of the Cross, she also founded monasteries for men. Within 20 years, from 1562-1582, St. Teresa founded 17 monasteries for nuns and 15 monasteries for friars throughout

12 December 6, 2015

Spain. Our Lord promised Teresa: “You take care of my business. I will take care of yours.” He continues to keep his promise. Today, there are more than 11,500 nuns in 98 countries, the largest cloistered contemplative community of nuns in the Catholic Church. There are more than 4,000 friars and more than 25,000 Secular Carmelite members who live their vocation “in the world.” Teresa was canonized in 1622 by Pope Gregory XV, along with Sts. Isidore, Ignatius Loyola, Francis Xavier and Philip Neri. In 1970, Pope Paul VI declared her a Doctor of the Church, the first woman to be so recognized, for her writing and teaching on prayer. Hers is a Marian Order whose discipleship is modeled on the Mother of Jesus depicted in Scripture: humble, obedient, and disposed to listen to the word of God, believe it, and act on that belief. Mary’s way of “pondering all these things in her heart” defines this contemplative lifestyle of prayerful intercourse with God dwelling within as members move through their days. Silence, solitude, and community are essential components of the contemplative vocation. Their call is to love God and make him loved. According to the profile of a Secular Carmelite, he or she is: ■ A practicing member of the Catholic Church; ■ Who is under the protection of Our Lady of Mount Carmel; ■ Who is inspired by St. Teresa of Jesus and St. John of the Cross; ■ Who makes a commitment to the Discalced Carmelite Order; ■ And seeks the face of God in prayer and service for the good of the Church and the needs of the world. The Carmelite nuns’ work is centered on communion with God in prayer and intercession for the Church, her priests and all the people of God. The Carmelite friars are mendicants who live in fraternal communion according to the Rule of St. Albert of Jerusalem, but whose apostolate is to go forth to teach and preach, help

form the nuns and Seculars and others, through retreats, spiritual direction, writing and parish missions. Their own education and formation are intended to increase their understanding of Scripture and Church teaching in light of their Teresian spirituality and charism. Most of the friars are ordained to the priesthood, though there are also brothers who serve their communities according to the needs. Some parishes are staffed by Discalced Carmelite friars, though not many. For Carmelite Seculars, the contemplative way includes participation in daily Mass and in the Liturgy of the Hours with the universal Church morning and evening prayer, and night prayer as possible; at least 30 minutes of mental prayer each day; ongoing study of Carmelite writings, Church documents, and other spiritual writings that foster growth and development; and practice of the virtues, particularly as noted in the prayer above: “humility, detachment, and charity.” One’s promise is to live life “in the world” and keep the evangelical counsels of chastity, poverty and obedience (according to their state in life), and the Beatitudes. St. Teresa’s Way of Perfection and Interior Castle, as well as her autobiography, The Life, are the foundations of Discalced Carmelite formation. Her Book of Foundations enables members to realize

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their accountability through forming local communities faithful to the Rule, Constitutions and Provincial Statutes based on St. Teresa’s vision for the Order. The many other Carmelite saints’ works are also part of their lifelong formation, such as Story of a Soul by St. Thérèse of Lisieux, and The Spiritual Canticle and The Ascent of Mount Carmel by St. John of the Cross. The Church has many religious orders, each with its own charism and work. The Dominican Order, for instance, has become familiar around the world to people who enjoy the Magnificat daily prayer and liturgy aid; they have Dominican Third Order members. The Franciscan Order has the greatest number of branches and members throughout the world, including Third Order Franciscans. Pope Francis is a Jesuit. People are called by God to the Discalced Carmelite vocation according to His intimate knowledge of them and his desire to have them serve in this contemplative way. The central object of the process of formation in the Secular Order is to prepare the person to live the charism and spirituality of Carmel in the following of Christ and in service to its mission. The local Carmelite Secular Community meets monthly at St. John Neumann Church in Farragut. For information, call Dorothy Curtis at 865-584-3307. ■

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“We stand on the shoulders of many,” said Father Mike Nolan, the current pastor at St. Thérèse. “Certainly my parishioners have heard me say this too many times and they probably groan now, but we’re the best Catholic Church in Bradley County.” “It’s not bragging. It’s just fact, because we’re the only Fr. Paul Hostettler one. So what we make of it is up to us. What we are is God’s gift to us. What we become is our gift to God,” Father Nolan added. Being Catholic in Bradley County in those early years wasn’t without challenges. The Church of the Resurrection had enough pews for about 60 worshipers. Sometime in the 1950s the church was expanded to make room for 120. “It was a very small church, and in fact, on Sunday we would open the windows and people would stand outside and look in,” said longtime parishioner Barry Boettner. “I have one fond memory of our oldest child being baptized in that church and it really didn’t have much of a baptistery, so they would (baptize) on the first pew, and they would lay a white cloth on the pew. “We were going through the ceremony and at about that time Father Hostettler’s cat came in the side window and jumped onto the pew and walked across the white cloth. About two seconds later, Father said, ‘I take this pure white cloth,’ and everybody just about lost it,” Mr. Boettner said with a big smile. With a migration of businesses to Bradley County in the 1950s, the population of the area grew, and so did the number of Catholics. The East Tennessee Catholic

The need to build a new church became a hot topic—too hot for the Bishop of Nashville (the Diocese of Knoxville didn’t exist yet). It took a few letters and a dinner invitation to convince Diocese of Nashville Bishop William Adrian that the parish was indeed ready for a new church. In 1961, construction started on St. Thérèse of Lisieux. “It is up on a hillside and at the time it was built it was the only building on the property and you could see it from two miles away,” Father Hostettler said. “We bought eight lots atop the hill. Now you have to be up there to see it.” St. Thérèse of Lisieux was built for just over $100,000, according to Father Hostettler. The building loan was paid off in just three years. “For a parish that only had 100 families, building a church, that was quite a (financial) chunk to bite off,” said parishioner Ron Braam, who has headed five different capital and fundraising campaigns at St. Thérèse. The most recent is the Home Campaign—a diocesan-wide effort aimed at building and strengthening the Catholic Church in East Tennessee. St. Thérèse of Lisieux will use its portion of the campaign funds to pay down parish debt and improve campus facilities. “It’s part of the message of the Home Campaign. We want to do that. We want to finish the second floor of the Family Life Center. It’s not heated and it’s not cooled,” Mr. Braam said. “The walls and ceilings in some places aren’t finished. There are no bathrooms up there. We have a budget planned. We’ve reached 85 percent of our (Home Campaign) goal and we haven’t had commitment weekend yet,” he added. Father Nolan, who also served as pastor at St. Thérèse from 19931997, is equally excited about the opportunity. Since his return in 2014, St.

JIM WOGAN

St. Thérèse continued from page 1

Tug-of-war champs Father Nolan and Claude Hardison celebrate as the Knights

of Columbus reclaim the trophy from Pam Wilcoxon and the Ladies of Faith.

Thérèse parishioners have reduced parish debt by more than 60 percent. “That is amazing. (They did it) through their own generosity without affecting parish attendance or offertory. In fact, offertory has increased, and that is due to the generosity of the people who see a need and say, all right, I need to dig a little deeper to do my part for my church, for my children, for somebody else’s children,” Father Nolan said. “The Home Campaign will allow us to not only pay off the debt from (the Family Life Center), but it will also allow us to finish it, to put the flooring in and the ceiling in. It will allow us to make improvements to our lighting and our audio in our church. We have to put a whole new roof on the church and redo the wiring. Not sexy stuff, but stuff that comes with the joy of home ownership,” Father Nolan added.

The Diocese of Knoxville Living our Roman Catholic faith in East Tennessee

The parish now has roughly 800 registered families. Like many parishes around the Diocese of Knoxville, some of that growth is the result of an expanding Hispanic community. Ana Giraldo-Taylor, originally from Colombia in South America, has been a parishioner at St. Thérèse since 1996. “I have seen a lot of families that have settled here in Cleveland, and that used to have little children. Now, their little children are grown, like mine.” Ms. Giraldo-Taylor said. “Their children are having children. There are a lot of people moving here. Not only Hispanic. There St. Thérèse continued on page 25 December 6, 2015 13

than popular evangelists like Father Robert Barron or Dr. Scott Hahn. Patrolling the bare stage and clutching a Bible, flanked only by the Vatican and American flags, Father Richards spent the morning coaching those in attendance on being men who God created them to be — and men who confess. He then spent the afternoon talking about being a man of mercy and answering questions from Bishop Stika and the audience. Glimpses he offered into his background provided hints of his personality, formation as a priest, and evangelist of the Good News. He spoke of his parents, being yelled at as a child and then again as a priest by priests during confession, his early exit from a seminary program for being too blunt, the two years he spent in an anger management program, and being a pastor in an inner city parish. And he credited Billy Graham for being his main influence in joining the priesthood. “I was taught in the seminary that you are a lion in the pulpit and a lamb in the confessional,” he said, urging the men in the strongest terms to regularly go to confession. “Every day. Every day we need to repent,” he added. “We have to be men who acknowledge our sins and repent of them.” As part of the retreat, diocesan priests were present all day throughout the theater to hear confessions in portable confessionals. In a light-hearted homage to his days as a youth growing up in a Catholic family that lived in a decidedly Catholic community whose faith was formed by strict priests, Father Richards warned the men early and often that if they didn’t follow his admonitions, they were going straight to hell. He would then pause, look out at the audience and smile teasingly. “Gentlemen, you need to commit yourself to daily prayer. It’s not an option. Pray every day and say three things. Say ‘I’m sorry’ and repent.

14 December 6, 2015

SCOTT MAENTZ

Retreat continued from page 3

Priestly advice Bishop Richard F. Stika and Father Larry Richards lead a Q&A

session during the Be a Man! men’s retreat on Nov. 21.

Say ‘I surrender,’ and say ‘Jesus, hold me,’” he said. “You can either sing ‘I did it my way’ or ‘I did it God’s way.’ They’re singing ‘I did it my way’ every second of every day in hell.” Father Richards implored the men to be faithful to God’s word, Jesus Christ’s teachings, and Catholicism in the face of a changing world where such beliefs are now condemned in certain regions. He said that is an important part of being a man. And he instructed them, and all Catholics, to give Pope Francis their full support, love, and prayers. He constantly connected with his audience through humor, relatable personal experiences, stories of faith formation, and priestly guidance. “I came to Christ at age 17. Billy Graham brought me to Jesus Christ. He pointed me to Jesus. I said the Sinner’s Prayer. For Billy, that is the end. For us, that’s the beginning,” Father Richards said, referring to the penitential ending prayer said at the often televised Billy Graham Crusades and other Protestant services. It seemed obvious that Father Richards had learned more from Billy Graham than coming to Christ. His delivery would pivot on a dime from calming and comforting to fire and brimstone — in the truest spirit of his evangelical Protestant role models. “Anyone who knows me knows

I’m an equal opportunity offender,” he said as a preface to a new point he was preparing to make, which, by this time, drew knowing laughs. Speaking on marriage and fatherhood, Father Richards repeated Colossians 3:18, where the Bible tells wives to submit themselves to their husbands. Prompting the men to practically high-five each other as they acknowledged that popular verse, he then raised his voice for effect as he spoke on marriage and fatherhood. “Stop being a jerk. It’s time for you to start giving your life to your wife and children. Be a man,” Father Richards sternly instructed. “Your No. 1 job given to you by God is to get your wife and children to heaven.” “God can use you as an instrument of salvation,” he reminded them. “It’s about time you died to yourself. That’s what makes you a good man.” Then, elevating his voice to a thunderous crescendo, he harshly commanded the men to tell their wives and children every day they love them. He then gave the men homework, instructing them to write a letter to each child they have that tells the child how much the fathers love them and how special the children are. Smiling broadly, Father Richards then

The Diocese of Knoxville Living our Roman Catholic faith in East Tennessee

gave the men his patented ultimatum: “If you don’t do this homework, you’re going to hell.” Laughs filled the theater. Robert Liuag of St. John Neumann Parish in Farragut, who attended the retreat with his 15-year-old son, Blaine, a freshman at Knoxville Catholic High School, called the retreat a very positive experience. He was one of several fathers attending with their sons. “He was very entertaining with his message, which was great. He kept people engaged. A lot of things he talks about are things I’ve been thinking about myself. It helps me stay focused at this point in my life. I’m 51 years old. It’s a reinforcement of things that I need to look at mid-life,” Mr. Liuag said. He also said Father Richards words are an inspiration, especially his guidance on fatherhood. “I have my son with me at the retreat. It was a touching moment when he talked about how his father passed and that message about making sure your kids know you love them and that you appreciate them. That’s important,” he said. Blaine Liuag shared his father’s opinion of the retreat. “It has had a similar impact on me. I think it’s a message for older people, but I also think there is more of a connection when he talks of Jesus’ message about love and forgiveness. He connects it to broader issues and gives us a better understanding of how to approach things,” Blaine said. Mr. Liuag said he was unfamiliar with Father Richards before the retreat, but found that his message and his unique style of delivering it to be very appealing. “It totally appeals to me. I didn’t know what to expect and I didn’t know him at all when I got here. He is not your typical priest,” Mr. Liuag said, adding that Father Richards reminds him of Jesuit priests because of the language he used and the way

Retreat continued on page 26 dioknox.org

Diocesan calendar By Dan McWilliams The annual March for Life rally in Washington, D.C., is set for Jan. 21-24, 2016. The diocesan trip to D.C. is sponsored by Chattanoogans for Life and the Chattanooga Deanery Youth Ministry Office. For more information, contact Al Forsythe at aforsythe@dioknox.org or visit dioknox.org/calendar. The Knox County March for Life is set for Sunday, Jan. 24. For more information, contact the Knox County chapter of Tennessee Right to life at 865-6891339 or trlknox@trlknox.com. Bishop Richard F. Stika will celebrate one more Mass in the diocese in honor of the sacrament of marriage. Couples will have the opportunity to renew their vows during Mass and continue to celebrate with family and friends at a luncheon following Mass. The next Mass is set for 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 30, 2016, at St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Lenoir City (register by Friday, Jan. 22). Register by the due date and receive free gifts from the Office of Marriage Preparation and Enrichment, a commemorative certificate, and a professional photo with Bishop Stika. Contact Marian Christiana at mchristiana@dioknox.org or 423-892-2310 or Karen Byrne at kbyrne@dioknox.org or 865-584-3307 for more information. Search for Christian Maturity weekend retreats are scheduled around the diocese in coming weeks. Cost is $60 for each retreat. In the Chattanooga Deanery, Search 147 is set for Feb. 1921 (application deadline: Feb. 10) at All Saints Academy in Chattanooga. Contact Donna Jones at djones@dioknox. org or 423-718-4387. For the Cumberland Mountain and Smoky Mountain deaneries, Search 97 is scheduled for Feb. 26-28 (deadline: Feb. 15) at St. John Neumann School in Farragut. Contact Deacon Dan Hosford at dhosford@dioknox.org or 865-603-9682. For the Five Rivers Deanery, Search 50 is set for Feb. 19-21 (deadline: Feb. 14) The East Tennessee Catholic

at St. Patrick Church in Morristown. Contact Deacon Jim Fage at jfage@ dioknox.org or 423-748-2836. For applications or more information about Search, visit dioknox.org/offices-ministries/youth-and-young-adult-ministry/ search-for-christian-maturity/. The diocesan Office of Marriage Preparation and Enrichment invites those experiencing infertility to a day of prayer and reflection from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, at St. John Neumann Church in Farragut. The day will begin with Mass. After Mass, Sister Restituta Nyinoweitu, ESM, pastoral associate and counselor, will offer a presentation in Seton Hall. Chris and Lora Davis will share their journey of infertility. The day will conclude with a luncheon. RSVP by Monday, Jan. 11, to Marian Christiana at 423-892-2310 or mchristiana@dioknox.org. The diocesan Office of Marriage Preparation and Enrichment, inspired by Worldwide Marriage Encounter’s “Longest Married Couple Project,” is seeking the longest-married couple from each parish in the diocese. The hope is that on Sunday, Feb. 14, for the annual World Marriage Day, each parish would recognize its longest-married couple. The Office of Marriage Preparation and Enrichment will provide the recognition awards. Submit nominees by Monday, Dec. 14, to your parish secretary. Include the following information: full name of each spouse, wedding date, mailing address, phone number, and e-mail address. The next Picture of Love engaged couples retreat is scheduled for 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Feb. 5, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 6, in the parish life center at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Chattanooga. The retreat is to supplement couples’ marriage formation process with their parish priests. The cost is $135 per couple, which includes a certificate good for $60 off a marriage license. Couples must attend the entire program to receive the certificate. Mass will be celebrated during the event. For

more information, contact Marian Christiana at 423-892-2310 or mchristiana@ dioknox.org. Knoxville Catholic High School will hold a placement test from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 5. For more information, or to arrange a tour, call dean of admissions Nicole Pfohl at 865-560-0502. Notre Dame High School in Chattanooga is currently accepting applications for the 2016-17 academic year. Visit myndhs.com to apply online. Call Laura Goodhard at 423-624-4618, extension 1004, for more information. Join Father John Orr of Holy Ghost Parish in Knoxville for a Catholic Italy Pilgrimage March 28 to April 8, 2016. Pilgrims will visit the major basilicas of St. John Lateran, St. Peter, St. Paul Outside the Walls, and St. Mary Major; the minor basilicas of St. Francis, St. Mary of the Angels in Assisi, St. Mary of the Flower, and Holy Cross in Florence; sites of miracles in the lives of saints such as Scholastica, Catherine of Siena, and Pio of Pietrelcina; and much more. For more information, visit www. unitours.com/client/FrOrrItalyPilgrimage.html. Plan to join Father David Carter, Father Colin Blatchford, and Deacon Gaspar DeGaetano on a pilgrimage to Italy from April 4-15, 2016. Walk through the Holy Doors of the four major basilicas of Rome for the Jubilee Holy Year of Mercy. Visit Assisi, Greccio (legendary birthplace of the Christmas crèche), Cascia (St. Rita), Loreto (Holy House of Nazareth), Manoppello (Holy Veil), Lanciano (eucharistic miracle), San Giovanni (St. Padre Pio), St. Michael’s Cave, Mugnano (St. Philomena), Amalfi (St. Andrew), Naples, Nettuno (St. Maria Goretti), and the wine region of Frascati. Cost is $3,679; includes air from Atlanta, first-class hotels (double occupancy), and more. Limited seating. Contact Susan Prendergast at Select International Tours at Susan@selectintl.com or 800-842-4842 or Barbara

The Diocese of Knoxville Living our Roman Catholic faith in East Tennessee

DeGaetano at 423-432-4841 or bdeg@ msn.com. Mass in the extraordinary form (“traditional Latin”) is celebrated at 1:30 p.m. each Sunday at Holy Ghost Church in Knoxville; at 3 p.m. on first and third Sundays at St. Thérèse of Lisieux Church in Cleveland; at 3 p.m. on second and fourth Sundays at St. Joseph the Worker Church in Madisonville; and at 3 p.m. on the first and third Sundays at St. Mary Church in Johnson City. The traditional Latin Mass of Christmas will be offered again this year at Holy Ghost Church in Knoxville at 1:30 p.m. on Christmas Day. At 1 p.m. preceding the Mass, the Knoxville Latin Mass Schola will present a program of traditional Christmas music. The Mass itself will be accompanied by the variable proper parts sung in Gregorian chant and the fixed ordinary parts (Kyrie, Gloria, Sanctus, etc.) in the polyphonic setting of Victoria’s Missa O Magnum Mysterium, plus motets in sacred polyphony composed by Palestrina, Tallis, and Victoria. All area Catholics and their friends are invited to share this festive celebration of the Nativity of Our Lord. Further details about the Mass and musical program will be posted at www.knoxlatinmass.net. A low Mass in the ancient form of the Roman Rite is normally offered every Monday morning at 7 a.m. at the Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul in Chattanooga. A Missa Cantata (sung high Mass) in the ancient form of the Roman Rite is normally celebrated at 5 p.m. on the fourth Sunday of each month at the Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul in Chattanooga. The next two Missa Cantata celebrations are at 5 p.m. Dec. 27, celebrating Sunday in the Octave of Christmas, and Jan. 24, Septuagesima Sunday. A potluck dinner will be held in the Varallo Parish Hall following the Jan. 24 Mass. All are invited. Calendar continued on page 22 December 6, 2015 15

Chattanooga Deanery calendar p.m. Saturday, Feb. 6, at The Chattanoogan hotel. Tickets will go on sale soon. Visit www.chattigras.com for updates. ■

Volunteers are needed Dec. 27 to Jan. 3 as OLPH hosts the homeless in the community on behalf of Family Promise of Greater Chattanooga. Call Lisa Kosky at 423-877-5982 or sign up on the poster in Holy Family Hall. The eighth-grade class hosted a yard sale Nov. 7. The OLPH School boys and girls cross country teams won awards in the Independent Schools Conference. The middle school girls team placed first, and the elementary boys team placed third. OLPH School spent a week celebrating the papal visit to the United States. Preschoolers made zucchettos to wear to an all-school Mass. Kindergartners made miters with their eighth-grade buddies. Second-graders made papal shields. Third-graders decorated the bulletin board with the papal flag and “flat Francis.” Eighth-graders made a quilt of their favorite sayings of Pope Francis.

St. Jude, Chattanooga St. Jude will be hosting Family Promise of Greater Chattanooga again this year to house homeless families for the week of Dec. 20-27. To volunteer, sign up at the church entrance during the weekends of Dec. 5-6 and Dec. 12-13. Call Steve Joyce at 423-843-9220 with questions. The youth sold doughnuts after all Masses on Nov. 21 and 22 to raise funds to help them attend the March for Life in Washington, D.C., in January. St. Jude Boy Scout Troop 172 held its annual poinsettia sale Nov. 21-22 and Nov. 28-29. The diocesan Office of Marriage Preparation and Enrichment partnered with St. Jude to host a “Surviving the Holidays” workshop Nov. 21 in the parish library for anyone grieving the loss of a loved one through death or divorce/ separation. Troop 172 Eagle Scouts and their families are invited to an Eagle Court of Honor on Sunday, Jan. 17, to celebrate the troop’s 100th Eagle Scout. Visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/1675465732668902/ or e-mail Mary Beth Welch at jmbwelch@epbfi.com for additional information.

St. Mary, Athens

Confirmation retreat at St. Stephen On Oct. 24, a confirmation retreat was held for the 18 candidates for confirmation at St. Stephen Parish in Chattanooga. As a final activity before leading the rosary and Mass, the candidates had to design their image of God on their pumpkin. They could carve or paint their image on the pumpkin.

16 December 6, 2015

Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Chattanooga

COURTESY OF DENNIS LOWE (2)

ChattiGras, which annually benefits Chattanooga’s Our Lady of Perpetual Help School, St. Jude School, and Notre Dame High School, is set for 7

Parish notes: Chattanooga Deanery

The parish Christmas party will take place after the 5 p.m. Mass on Saturday, Dec. 5. The Knights of Columbus donated $271.50 to the parish from their recent pancake breakfast. The parish held a “Year of Mercy” and “Being a Woman of Mercy” women’s retreat Nov. 7 at Christ Prince of Peace Retreat Center in Benton. Speakers were St. Mary pastor Father Randy Stice and Sister Mary Timothea Elliott, RSM, director of the diocesan Office of Christian Formation. Newcomers: Ronald Ruiz and Giovanna Ocampo and children, Daniela, Julian, and Gabriela; Martin and Carolyn Hall; Alma Ostendorf and Ben Frazier Jr.; Paul James and Christine Harper ■

The Diocese of Knoxville Living our Roman Catholic faith in East Tennessee

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Cumberland Mountain Deanery calendar

Parish notes: Cumberland Mountain Deanery

A Lessons and Carols Service, presented by the Knoxville Catholic High School choral and chamber ensembles in conjunction with the St. John Neumann Parish adult choir, will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 3, at St. John Neumann Church in Farragut. Admission is free, and doors open at 6:15 p.m. The service celebrates a journey through the Christmas story, with nine passages of Scripture from Genesis,

Blessed Sacrament, Harriman The Knights of Columbus will be selling “Keep Christ in Christmas” cards on Saturday, Dec. 5, after Mass in front of the church and on Sunday, Dec. 13. If these dates and times are not convenient, call Frank Knies at 865-376-4793 or any Knight. The National Council of Catholic Women “Ladies Day” celebration was held Oct. 24 and 25. Women of the CCW served as greeters, readers, ushers, and extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion at weekend Masses.

Isaiah, and the Gospels that reveal the story of the birth of Christ. Each reading is followed by choral selections, instrumental music, and carol-singing. Following the service, donations that benefit Catholic Relief Services and each choir’s music program will be accepted. For more information, contact St. John Neumann School and Church music director Jonathan Leichman at jleichman@sjncs-knox.org. ■

St. Francis of Assisi, Fairfield Glade The Stephen Ministry is up and running in the parish. It includes members of the congregation who have received many hours of training to minister to people experiencing a crisis or going through a difficult time.

Anniversaries: Steve and MaryLou Knowles (68), Lyle and Kathryn Flahaven (62), Edwin and Grace Johnson (62), Jack and Marilyn Alderton (61), Ron and Terry Gleusner (59), Eugene and Marilyn Schmitt (59), Fred and Laura Reed (59), Ron and Mary Vivian White (58), Fred and Sharon Henkel (54), Robert and Janice Cahill (54), Mike and Susan Spitler (53), Tom and Mary Dega (52), John and Elizabeth Mosior (52), Frank and Nancy Drabek (51), Eugene and Janet Standaet (51), Philip and Rosalie Poynter (51) Anniversaries from September-October: Charles and Mary Russella (67), Guy and Victoria Bretl (67), Milton and Regina Jerabek (66), Dion and Emile Frate (65), William and Arlene McShane (62), Herb and Ginny Adams (60), Tom and Terry Boylson (59), Eugene and Elaine Riggleman (58), Ron and Marilyn Horstman (57), Roy and Jackie Richardson (56), Tom and Pauline Higgins (56), Rudy and Denise Difazio (55), Mark and Karin Salsbury (54), Fred and Dottie Belvo (54), John and Virginia Smith (54), Pat and Sara Tripiciano (53), Lawrence and Myra Opatik (53), Charles and Pat Bunnell (53), Jerry and Diane Barbeau (51), John and Susan Gauerke (51), Michael and Diane Treanor (51), Ed and Margaret Kubit (50), Ed and Romona McCrory (50), Bob and Mary Tobey (50), Robert and Carole Soldon (50)

COURTESY OF GLENN CADA

The Council of Catholic Women will have its annual Christmas lunch and silent auction on Wednesday, Dec. 9. Entertainment will be provided by the Sweet “T’s” Cloggers.

The Knights of Columbus are selling 2015 Christmas cards, in a wide variety of styles and languages, in Seton Hall after all Masses. Proceeds will go toward the support of the Crazy Quilt Friendship Center in Newcomb.

St. John Neumann food drive benefits Ladies of Charity For many years the St. John Neumann Conference of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul has carried out food drives to help the needy in the Knoxville area. The food drives are held twice a year, during the Lenten season and in the autumn. All donated items (canned food, diapers, toiletries, cash, and grocery cards) are given to the Ladies of Charity in Knoxville for their food pantry/emergency-assistance program. The volunteers at Ladies of Charity use the donations to pack and distribute threeday supplies of nutritious food for their clients. As St. John Neumann Parish has grown, so has its food drive. In two weekends this November, generous parishioners donated 2,990 pounds of canned food, 694 pounds of personal-care items, and $1,525 in cash and cards. Here are links to the organizations involved in the food collection and distribution: http://sjnknox.org/ministries/social-action/st-vincent-de-paulsociety and https://ladiesofcharityknox.org/our-ministries/food-pantry/.

The Knights will hold a breakfast buffet from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6. Costs are $25 for an immediate family, $6 for ages 13 and above, $5 for ages 4-12, and free for ages 3 and under.

Kubits celebrate 50th wedding anniversary

St. John Neumann, Farragut

Sister Patricia Soete, RSM, of St. Jude in Helenwood has again asked for St. John Neumann Parish’s help in providing Christmas gifts for children in Appalachia. They will accept clothing items (such as underwear, socks, jeans, or shoes) for children ages 1-17; however, their greatest need is toys for children 1-14 as well as age-appropriate toys or games for children 15-17. Leave unwrapped gifts in the narthex after Mass or drop them off at the parish office during the week by Friday, Dec. 11. New items only. Cumberland Mountain continued on page 19 The East Tennessee Catholic

t. Francis of Assisi Parish in Fairfield Glade congratulates Ed and Marge Kubit on the celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary, which was on Sept. 18. They were married at St. Rita Church in Detroit. Their three children

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are Kathy Kubit of Canton, Mich., Kenneth of Westland, Mich., and Kimberly Cleveland of Wixom, Mich., and they have three grandchildren. Mr. and Mrs. Kubit moved to the Glade in 1997, where they enjoy bowling, golfing, and gardening. ■ December 6, 2015 17

St. Elizabeth members donate to Baby Bottle fund

his year parishioners of St. Elizabeth in Elizabethton donated $4,000, an all-time high, to the Baby Bottle program that benefits Abortion Alternatives and Women’s Center/TLC in Elizabethton. That amount brings the total to more than $22,000 for the nine years that St. Elizabeth has participated in the program. Baby bottles were distributed on Mother’s Day and returned on Father’s Day, filled with cash, coins and checks. Angie Odom, founder and director of the Abortion Alternatives and Women’s Center, recalls that while buying diapers and baby wipes on the organization’s budget recently, a couple in front of her at the checkout line left a check for $150 with the cashier for Ms. Odom to use toward

her diaper purchases. That couple turned out to be from St. Elizabeth, just one example of the generosity of parishioners to the program. The Abortion Alternatives and Women’s Center provides crisis pregnancy and parenting services (including the “purchase” of usable items at the “Mommy Mart” with “Mommy Money” or “Daddy Dollars” earned by clients who meet the center’s requirements), a mobile van summer food program for children (serving about 73,000 total meals in 2014 — three meals per day for an average of 425 children), and possibly a holiday meal for their clients and their families. The center, which does not receive any state or federal funding, is supported through monetary donations from individuals, groups, and churches like St. Elizabeth. ■

Pastor Cecil Clark to speak at Holy Trinity vigil

astor Cecil Clark, minister of True Vine Baptist Church in Knoxville, will be the featured speaker at an Ecumenical Candlelight Vigil at 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 24 (sleet or snow date Jan. 31), at Holy Trinity Church in Jefferson City. Along with Pastor Clark, pastors associated with the Jefferson County Ministerial Association and their church members will join with Father Patrick Resen and Holy Trinity parishioners in commemorating the 43rd anniversary of the passage of Roe v Wade, legalizing abortion in the United States. The prayer intention, in unity with the March for Life Washington participants, is for an overturn of the Roe v Wade decision and an end to the practice of abortion. Pastor Clark, a minister for 27 years, is a ferocious advocate for unborn babies and their mothers and has vowed to stand and pray in front of Planned Parenthood on Cherry Street in Knoxville until the abortion facility closes its doors. Many consider him, along with Lisa Morris and Paul Simoneau,

18 December 6, 2015

Parish notes: Five Rivers Deanery Holy Trinity, Jefferson City The Knights of Columbus awarded their family of the quarter to Patty and Charles Lutz. The Knight of the quarter was Martin Witberg. The parish held a birthday party Nov. 8 for its six parishioners ranging in age from 91 to 99 years old. The parish hosted a “Mini-March for Life” on Oct. 17 in front of the church and a Candlelight Vigil for Life on Oct. 21. At 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 18, the spiritual life committee will host a Seder meal. The guest speaker will be Elliott Osowitt, a Messianic Jew who is pastor at Faith Fellowship Church in Jefferson, N.C. Anniversaries: Ron and Linda Henry (55), Dick and Linda Larson (54), Dan and Barb Rogers (40), Bob and Carol Root (35), Dave and Anne Orzechowski (30), Greg and Lorrain Lennon (15), Stephen and Gail Stiver (15), Dorsey and Laura Brown (5) Newcomers: Jeff and Stephanie Pardue and their children, Brian, Gabrielle, and Jeffrey; Frank and Tracie Patroni; Terry and Elizabeth Varner

Notre Dame, Greeneville The ninth annual Madrigal Dinner fundraiser will take place on the evenings of Thursday, Dec. 3, through Saturday, Dec. 5. Cost is $30 and includes a fourcourse meal and entertainment. The parish hall will be transformed into the “18th Century Castle of Notre Dame” for the event. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the “court” enters the castle at 7. For tickets, call 423-639-9381; no tickets are sold at the door. Ages 12 and up only. The Knights of Columbus are selling parish 60th-anniversary commemorative Christmas tree ornaments.

St. Dominic, Kingsport An Advent event Thursday, Dec. 3, includes a parish dinner at 6 p.m., followed by a talk for adults along with activities for children. The guest speaker will be Steve Hemler, founder of Catholic Apologetics Institute of North America. He will have a multimedia presentation on “Why Would a Loving God Allow Evil, Pain, and Suffering?” Adults may also sign up in the vestibule for a workshop on creating an Advent wreath.

Pastor Clark

to be the heart, voice, and “boots on the ground” of the abortion battle in Knoxville and the surrounding area. Pastor Clark has stood and prayed every Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for the last five years, and he states, “It is my goal, with strength and direction from God, to remain standing in prayer and witness for as long as the evil of this Planned Parenthood exists.” ■

St. Patrick, Morristown The Knights of Columbus hosted a winter coat and toiletries drive Oct. 17-Nov. 29 to benefit homeless veterans living outside the VA Hospital in Johnson City. The Knights sponsored an Italian Feast in the parish center Nov. 21. The 14th annual Holiday Bazaar on Nov. 14, hosted by the Council of Catholic Women, featured more than 40 vendors, a holiday resale shop, and an “Italian Café.” Several members of the CCW participated in the Life Outreach Center “Walk for Life” on Oct. 10 at Fred Miller Park. ■

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Smoky Mountain Deanery calendar

Parish notes: Smoky Mountain Deanery

Knights of Columbus Council 645 invites all Knights, their families, and members of Holy Ghost and Immaculate Conception parishes to its annual Christmas party in the IC parish hall from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 3. Bring a dish as well as a

Immaculate Conception, Knoxville Baptism: Charlotte Francis Johnson, daughter of Michael and Amanda Johnson

child’s toy or gift to benefit the patients at Children’s Hospital. Toys should be new; stuffed animals are OK; games are especially welcome gifts. The party will feature entertainment, music, games, food, and Christmas carol singing. ■

Our Lady of Fatima, Alcoa

The Council of Catholic Women invites women of the parish to a baby shower for Mary, the mother of Jesus, at 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 14, in the social hall. All of the gifts will be donated to the Catholic Charities of East Tennessee Pregnancy Services Center to distribute. They have requested the following items: diapers: newborn to size 4; clothes; sleepers; onesies: newborn to size 2T; lotion; baby wash; baby shampoo; maternity clothes; grooming kits (nail clippers, comb and brush, etc.); crib sheets; Pack-n-Play sheets; socks; sippy cups; toddler plastic plates and utensils; and bottles. Do not wrap the gifts. You may bring an appetizer to the baby shower. Those able to donate but unable to attend should bring their gifts to the office. The finance committee, under the direction of Father Bill McKenzie, has formed a 14-member strategic planning committee that will develop a fiveyear strategic plan for Our Lady of Fatima.

JUDY PICKERING

All widows of the parish are invited to a fellowship at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6, in the social hall. Bring your ideas for future gatherings and outings. For more information, call Jeanine Dixon at 865-681-8762.

Immaculate Conception Parish celebrates Founders Day Immaculate Conception Parish in downtown Knoxville recently celebrated Founders Day. Pictured above with Father Ron Franco, CSP (left), and Father Jerry Tully, CSP, are members of IC founding families: Sister Mary Martha Naber, RSM, Mary Ilene Kerley, Dorothy Romines, Thelma Ryan, Walter Clancy, Joy Clancy Carden, Ellen Clancy Pickering, Teresa Dewine, Billy Joe White, Patsy Clancy Winter, Louis Rankin, Greg O’Connor, and Sister Albertine Paulus, RSM.

St. Joseph the Worker, Madisonville The Knights of Columbus will present its third annual St. Joseph the Worker Christmas Concert at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4. Christmas favorites will be performed by the choral group Rare Notes. Seating is limited; buy your tickets early. Knights Fourth Degree Assembly 2920 conducted a memorial service Nov. 8 at St. Joseph the Worker honoring members of the Fourth Degree who died in the past year. The parish thanked those who have been turning in their empty ink cartridges to the office. The parish was able to get all of its paper supply free in the past year with the credits received from the cartridges. ■

Cumberland Mountain continued from page 17 The parish hosted the fall general meeting of the Cumberland Mountain Deanery Council of Catholic Women on Nov. 21. Marian Christiana was the speaker.

St. Therese, Clinton The annual Christmas dinner and play will be held Sunday, Dec. 13, after the 11 a.m. Mass. Newcomers: Angela Yonce, Natalia Acosta, Cindy Tucker, Sandra Morgan, Jim Pubillones, Rose Hix, Michael and Dorothy Terheyden, Catherine Powers, Travis and Julie Keller ■ The East Tennessee Catholic

COURTESY OF SARA CAREY

St. Joseph, Norris

Pet blessing at St. Alphonsus St. Alphonsus Parish in Crossville recently held its annual pet blessing in honor of the feast of St. Francis. Pictured is pastor Father Jim Harvey with a couple of St. Alphonsus’ four-legged “parishioners.”

The Diocese of Knoxville Living our Roman Catholic faith in East Tennessee

December 6, 2015 19

Catholic schools

Sacred Heart runners have standout cross-country season The school wins a pair of state titles in the elementary-level varsity meets and has high finishers in other divisions as well By Dan McWilliams he Sacred Heart Cathedral School teams’ imprint was all over the middle and elementary school cross country state championships held recently at Victor Ashe Park in Knoxville. Third-grader Keegan Smith won the elementary varsity boys state championship, while the Sacred Heart girls elementary varsity team captured the state title in its division. “It’s unprecedented,” co-head coach Kathy Wolski said. “I think we made some school history, because cross country, unlike some of the sports, has no divisions — divisions in the sense of relationship to the school sizes — so we compete against every size school in the state.” Keegan ran the 1-mile course in 5 minutes, 23.91 seconds, barely edging out fifth-grader Riley Hanson of Farragut Intermediate (5:23.97). There were 232 runners in the field. Keegan and Riley “switched the lead two or three times,” Mrs. Wolski

COURTESY OF DEACON SEAN SMITH

Race to the finish Keegan Smith (right) of Sacred Heart battles Riley Hanson of Farragut Intermediate for the elementary varsity boys state championship.

COURTESY OF SACRED HEART CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

said. “[Keegan] didn’t lead in the beginning, the first 300 or so (meters), then he took the lead right around the halfway point, around 700 meters or so, and then they kind of battled it

Championship team The Sacred Heart girls elementary varsity cross country team poses with its first-place state plaque.

20 December 6, 2015

out a little bit. So it was a great race in terms of them bringing out the best in each other.” Keegan “is a hard worker,” Mrs. Wolski said. “He’s so competitive, but he’s so coachable, and that’s a great combination. It’s a winning combination.” Co-head coach Andy Sauter agreed about Keegan. “He just had a fantastic year,” he said. “He actually won every race he competed in as a third-grader. He had a great year.” The elementary girls cross country team finished first out of 15 schools. “That was the group, we could tell a couple of seasons ago, that they were just bonding and that would be the key, because in a state meet when you have such a large race in terms of how many runners, it’s critical that the team runs together as a pack,” Mrs. Wolski said. “That’s what makes cross country an individual sport and a team sport. Those girls just ran together in a pack, just like they do in practice.”

The Diocese of Knoxville Living our Roman Catholic faith in East Tennessee

Sydney Clements of Sacred Heart was sixth out of 192 runners in a time of 6:02.17. “Sydney led on many of the races throughout the season,” Mrs. Wolski said. “She was very consistent.” In addition, Ethan Ash, a fourthgrader from Our Lady of Perpetual Help School finished 31st in the elementary school competition and Finnigan Donnelly, a fourth-grader at St. Joseph School finished 108th, placing in the top half for the meet. “We definitely had a great year, especially since our numbers were a little bit down,” Mr. Sauter said. “The results were great because we had such quality runners. That was a really pleasant surprise for this year. They had a great year. The elementary girls were the state champions. Last year the JV girls were the state champions.” The Sacred Heart middle school girls team finished 10th out of 26 teams in the state meet. Callie Grace Tucker finished the 2-mile course sixth overall in 12:53.89. “It’s been many, many years since the girls middle school has qualified as a team,” Mrs. Wolski said. “We’ve had individual runners qualify [for the state meet] multiple times, but that’s the first time with any of these girls and as long as I’ve been coaching that they’ve gone as a team to state, which is phenomenal.” “All of our middle school teams did pretty well,” Mr. Sauter said. “The girls qualified for state, and they went on to come in 10th in state altogether. We have a small team, and the beauty of success with Sacred Heart is we’re competing against public schools that have massive amounts of runners and deep pools of talent, and [SHCS is] really able to hold their own.” The Sacred Heart elementary girls JV team stood out at the state meet, Cross country continued on page 22 dioknox.org

Catholic schools

Five from Knoxville Catholic High School sign with universities By Dan McWilliams noxville Catholic High School celebrated its first signing day of 2015-16 on Nov. 11 as five student athletes committed to universities at a ceremony in the school library. Two softball players signed, Gianna Carideo with the University of Washington and Jessica Hamilton with Transylvania University. A pair of baseball players signed with Lincoln Memorial University, Turner Whitfield and Hunter Judd. And Alec Connolly signed with the University of Tennessee in swimming. The KCHS library was filled with students and family members of the athletes. “I would like to open by first saying on behalf of our five student athletes a great big ‘thank you’ to each person in this room who has made an impact in their lives, and has had a hand in making this day possible,” said KCHS athletics director Jason Surlas. “Parents, families, and friends, but especially parents, thank you for pushing them a little harder than maybe they thought they needed to be pushed. “Thank you for all the times driving them to and from practices and games, all the times you had to wash a uniform the day of the game because your son or daughter forgot to tell you, and the times volunteering to help with anything that needed to be done for the team; all the times spent watching and supporting them in all kinds of weather.” Mr. Surlas also thanked the five athletes “for simply choosing sports.” “I’m sure when you were very young and you wanted to play softball, baseball, or swim, that you just wanted to have fun, and you didn’t think, ‘This is going to get me a scholarship in college someday,’” he said. “But as you grew older, that fun The East Tennessee Catholic

DAN MCWILLIAMS

Bound for the next level Signing with universities Nov. 11 at Knoxville Catholic High School were (from left) Hunter Judd, Turner Whitfield, Alec Connolly, Gianna Carideo, and Jessica Hamilton.

sport turned into something more complex. More time commitment, more preparation, more sacrifice was required, and you endured it all. “Thank you for sacrificing your ‘fun time’ a lot in the last several years, for never giving up when times were tough, for spending all those hours in the summer and on the weekends practicing or playing your sport, when a lot of your friends were at the lake or pool or movies. Most people see the ‘body of work’ when you compete in a game or meet, but it’s the behind-the-scenes work you put in that allows for a day like today to happen.” Alec said he is excited to be going to the University of Tennessee. His swimming career has come on

strong in recent months. One website called him an “insane athlete.” “I started this August or September swimming year-round,” he said. “I guess they called me an insane athlete because I’ve played a lot of different sports, like football, track, soccer, and lacrosse.” Alec’s time of 20.94 seconds in the 50-yard freestyle caught the attention of UT swimming and diving head coach Matt Kredich. “I got the national cut for the national meet in my 50 freestyle,” Alec said. “[Coach Kredich] actually saw that race. It was at a summer-league meet. He saw that race, and I guess he was like, ‘well, I want that kid.’” Alec was joined at the signing by his parents, Ami and Michael Connolly, twin brother Luke, brother

The Diocese of Knoxville Living our Roman Catholic faith in East Tennessee

Derek, and sister Marisa. With Jessica at her signing were parents Steven and Renee Hamilton and siblings David and Alexis. Gianna’s parents, Toni and Jim Carideo, witnessed her signing, as did travel team coaches Shelby Burchell and Brandon Carr, throwing coach Kyle Brady, and Lady Irish head coach Sarah Bailey. Turner was joined by his parents, Chris and Katie Whitfield, sisters Emily and Mary Kate, and brother Baker. Hunter’s mom, Lisa Slaton, and dad, Seth Judd, witnessed his signing. Also present were stepfather Dave Slaton, stepmother Sally Judd, brothers Aaron Slaton, Ben Smith, and Walker Smith, and sister Haley Judd. ■ December 6, 2015 21

BRUCE PFEIFFER

Catechetical leaders attend leadership conference Parish catechetical leaders from around the diocese recently attended the MidSouth Catholic Leadership Conference at Lake Barkley State Resort in Cadiz, Ky. They also hosted a forum at the conference showcasing best practices from their parishes. Pictured are Sara and Randy Carey from St. Alphonsus Parish in Crossville; Clifton and Marilyn St. Pierre from St. Stephen in Chattanooga; Father Richard Armstrong with the Diocese of Knoxville and daughter Catherine; Ruth Campbell, Laura McKenna, and Karen Vacaliuc from St. Mary in Oak Ridge; Dianne Pfeiffer from St. Bridget in Dayton; and Brigid Johnson from Immaculate Conception in Knoxville.

Cross country continued from page 20

too, with Molly Brinkman finishing second in 7:02.06, Marie-Veronica Kouakou 10th, Camille Hunt 11th, and Alexa Roth 13th. “We had a number of girls who did really well,” Mr. Sauter said. In middle school boys varsity action, Riley Smith of Sacred Heart finished 59th out of 312 runners. Mrs. Wolski and Mr. Sauter have a successful coaching philosophy. “For us it’s an issue of exposing the kids to what cross country is, and it’s all in the numbers,” Mrs. Wolski said. “If you get enough kids, you’re going to have just great camaraderie and great bonding, and that’s what drives these kids at this age, at the elementary age; it’s not just raw talent. It’s just basically them working hard for many weeks.” That helps create a strong cross country program. “I’ve been coaching for 12 years now, and when I first started it was a pretty small program,” Mr. Sauter said. “There wasn’t a lot of sophistication in

the coaching. It was a lot of stopwatches and asking kids to run as fast as they can.” Mr. Sauter said “if I can maximize each individual’s performance at the right time, then I can maximize the team’s performance, and that’s really been the philosophy. I never look at the kids and say, you have to win state or you have to do this. I try to coach each one individually, whether it’s the first runner or the last runner and basically say, you need to run to the best and the smartest of your potential, and if I’ve done that then I’ve done my job. That’s all I can do as a coach and not necessarily focus on the results. “The kids hear it throughout the season. I always tell them, it doesn’t matter to me whether we come in first or last, as long as everybody runs good, solid races, they run smart, and they run to their potential, then we’ve done the best that we can. That really has helped everybody on the team feel like they’re a part of something bigger.”

Mr. Sauter watches every Sacred Heart runner in a meet, including those who aren’t near the front of the pack. “I also make sure that the kids who are maybe not the fastest runners but who are running toward the end of the races, I watch them and give them advice and encouragement,” he said. The Sacred Heart coaching philosophy seems to work. “We have a lot of kids who come back,” Mr. Sauter said. “We have kids who’ve been running since third grade and run all the way through eighth grade.” Many of the runners move on to Knoxville Catholic High School and to the college ranks, he added. “The kids do a lot of work,” Mr. Sauter said. “It’s one of those sports where they show up at practice and they ask you what we’re going to do today, and my answer usually is, we’re gonna run.” ■

Calendar continued from page 15 The Tennessee Chamber Chorus, a professional ensemble based in Cleveland, will present a series of seasonal concerts Dec. 13-15. The chorus will perform at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Cleveland; at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 14, at Christ Episcopal Church in Chattanooga; and at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15, at St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Lenoir City. The program, titled “Sing Noel,” will include sacred a cappella music from various eras, including

22 December 6, 2015

works by Palestrina, Sweelinck, Brahms, Britten, and numerous contemporary composers. More information, including how to purchase tickets, can be found at www. tennesseechamberchorus.org. The St. Ambrose School of Chant, located at Our Lady of the Mountains in Jasper, Ga., will be hosting the following workshop (for priests, deacons, or deacons in formation): Finding Your Voice: The Role of the Priest

and Deacon and How to Sing With Confidence, set for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16. Deadline to register is Dec. 12. Register at www.olmjasper. com/ministries/parish-music-ministries/ st-ambrose-school-of-chant/. The St. Thomas the Apostle Eastern (Byzantine) Catholic Mission located at 2304 Ault Road, Knoxville, TN 37914 meets for Divine Liturgy each Sunday at 9:30 a.m. All services are in English.

The Diocese of Knoxville Living our Roman Catholic faith in East Tennessee

Call Father Richard Armstrong at 865584-3307 or visit www.saintthomasknoxville.org/ for details. Holy Resurrection Ruthenian Byzantine Catholic Mission has Divine Liturgy celebrations at 9:30 a.m. Sundays at the old Holy Ghost Church, 1031 N. Central St. in Knoxville. For times of holy-day services or for more information, visit www.knoxbyz.org or call Father Thomas O’Connell at 865-256-4880. ■ dioknox.org

COURTESY OF THE DOMINICAN SISTERS OF ST. CECILIA

Making perpetual profession of vows Five Dominican Sisters of the St. Cecilia Congregation made perpetual profession of vows recently. Pictured above are (from left, front row) Sister Casey Marie Loyer, Sister Mary Josephine Spellman, and Sister Scholastica Niemann; (second row) Sister Veronica Marie Buckmaster and Sister Magdalena Dudenhoeffer; and (third row) Bishop David R. Choby and Mother Ann Marie Karlovic, prioress general. Sister Scholastica is a former parishioner of St. Mary in Oak Ridge.

Dominicans professing include one from Oak Ridge

ive young women recently made their perpetual profession of the simple vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience as Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia Congregation in Nashville. Among those making final profession was Sister Scholastica Niemann, OP, a former member of St. Mary Parish in Oak Ridge. Sister Scholastica is the daughter of Pat Niemann, who also attends St. Mary Parish. Her father, Bill Niemann, is deceased. Sister Scholastica is a graduate of Knoxville Catholic High School and attended the University of Dallas, where she received a bachelor of arts degree in Theology. Sister Scholastica is currently teaching at St. Cecilia Academy in Nashville. The Mass for the Rite of Perpetual Religious Profession was celebrated at the Cathedral of the Incarnation in Nashville. Nashville Bishop David R. Choby was the principal The East Tennessee Catholic

celebrant. The homilist was Father Vincent Wiseman, OP, of the Dominican Province of St. Joseph. In addition to the sisters making final profession of vows, 13 young women professed their first vows in the Congregation of St. Cecilia recently. The Congregation of Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia was established in Nashville in 1860. The Sisters of St. Cecilia are dedicated to the apostolate of Catholic education. The community of nearly 300 sisters serves in 35 schools throughout the United States, with mission houses also in Sydney, Australia; Vancouver, British Columbia; Bracciano, Italy; Elgin, Scotland; and Sittard, The Netherlands. The St. Cecilia Motherhouse is located in Nashville. For more information on the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia Congregation, visit their website at www.nashvilledominican.org. ■

COURTESY OF GERI SUTTER

Ladies of Charity of Knoxville hold 25th Silver Tea The Ladies of Charity of Knoxville assist people with food, clothing, medications, rent, utilities, and layettes for infants, as well as kerosene. The Ladies held their 25th annual Silver Tea on Nov. 15 to raise funds to provide warmth for those who heat their homes with kerosene. The tea was chaired by Karen Burry, and it was held at the Ladies of Charity building on Baxter Avenue. Pictured from left are Clara Mathien, Sister Marie Moore, RSM, Ladies of Charity president Nancy Scheurer, Sister Mary Martha Naber, RSM, executive director Susan Unbehaun, Ann Horst, and Lisa Morris.

COURTESY OF SARAH TRENT

St. Mary - Oak Ridge receives $10,000 PE grant St. Mary School in Oak Ridge was recently selected as one of 20 Tennessee middle schools to have been awarded a 2015 “Shape the State” grant to improve its physical-education program. The grant, valued at $10,000, is funded by the BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Health Foundation. Ashley Williams of BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee visited St. Mary School to present the $10,000 check to Sister Marie Blanchette, OP, principal, and Shannon Adcock, athletic director. Mrs. Adcock also received a check for $1,000 to spend at her discretion for PE, nutrition, and wellness efforts. Mrs. Adcock, Ms. Williams, and Sister Marie Blanchette are pictured above with St. Mary eighth-graders.

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December 6, 2015 23

Pope Francis begins Year of Mercy, opens door to Muslims, Jews Special jubilee celebration seen as opportunity to extend mercy to people of all faiths and initiate dialogue of peace

Pope continued from page 9

healing. If the members have no further questions, Pope Francis would be asked to issue a decree recognizing the healing as a miracle worked by God through the Homeless continued from page 6

leave on the beds, too.” Rosa Cisneros, a high school senior, said that she enjoyed learning more about the shelter and its many programs. She also learned the value in doing small acts of charity. “It’s the littlest things,” she said. “You don’t have to do a big impact. It can just be something small, and it will result in something big.”

24 December 6, 2015

intercession of Mother Teresa. With the decree, the pope would survey the world’s cardinals and set a date for a consistory of cardinals who live in or could come to Rome for the occasion. They

would be asked to recommend the pope canonize Blessed Teresa; if the pope agrees, he would set the date for the ceremony. AGI had reported the likely date of the canonization would be Sept.

5, which is Mother Teresa’s feast day and the anniversary of her death. However, Sept. 5 is a Monday in 2016 and Father Lombardi said the canonization would not take place on a Monday. ■

The retreat also included discussions about homelessness, reflections, and prayer. The students wrote about their experiences on the outside of their cardboard boxes. At the end of the weekend, the teens moved their boxes to the front of All Saints Church so that parishioners could read the reflections. Ms. Nassis hopes the retreat teaches the youth more about the

needs of the community and ways in which they can help. “I think the biggest thing for the kids to learn is compassion and empathy, just to be grateful for what they do have,” she said. “It’s easy for any of us to feel very entitled. Even things like a bottled water. We were handing out snacks at KARM, and the kids said, ‘Everyone was just so thankful for just a bag of

chips or the applesauce we gave them.’” The Life on the Streets Retreat was developed by Theresa Wasil in 2008 for her Girl Scout Gold Award project. It has grown every year since. “It has been incredible to see a Scouting project grow into an awareness movement throughout our community,” Ms. Nassis said. ■

Holy Door preparations A worker places a gold cross and the coat of arms of Pope Francis on the Holy Door at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington.

The Diocese of Knoxville Living our Roman Catholic faith in East Tennessee

CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

From entering a diocesan Holy Door to undertaking the corporal and spiritual works of mercy, Catholics can model a compassionate life during the Year of Mercy declared by Pope Francis, said the chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Evangeli-

zation and Catechesis. The jubilee period, designated as Dec. 8 through Nov. 13, 2016, can be observed in many different ways that allow every Catholic to be a “credible witness to mercy,” Archbishop Leonard P. Blair of Hartford, Conn., explained Nov. 17 during the second day of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ fall general assembly. Repeatedly pointing to Pope Francis’ “Misericordiae Vultus” (“The Face of Mercy”), which instituted the jubilee, the archbishop called on local bishops and parishioners to heed the pontiff’s call to “gaze more attentively to mercy.” Pope Francis will open the observance by opening the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican Dec. 8. Other Holy Doors at sites around Rome are to open in the following weeks. Archbishop Blair said local bishops can designate a diocese’s own Holy Door at a cathedral or at a shrine frequented by pilgrims. In Catholic tradition, the Holy Door represents the passage to salvation — the path to a new and eternal life, which was opened to humanity by Jesus. The pope identifies the church’s

CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

VATICAN CITY — Opening the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Year of Mercy, Pope Francis also hopes to open a year of “fervent dialogue” among Christians, Muslims and Jews, so that all who profess faith in a merciful God may be stronger in showing mercy toward one another. The opening of the special jubilee year just a month after the terrorist attacks in Paris and at a time of continuing strife in the Holy Land and around the Middle East shows the size of the challenge facing those committed to interreligious dialogue, but it equally shows the need. In his official proclamation of the Year of Mercy, Pope Francis noted that the Christian profession of faith in God’s mercy “relates us to Judaism and Islam, both of which consider mercy to be one of God’s most important attributes.” He prayed that the jubilee would “open us to even more fervent dialogue so that we might know and understand one another better; may it eliminate every form of closedmindedness and disrespect, and drive out every form of violence and discrimination.”

By Catholic News Service

Merciful prayer Pope Francis, shown praying, is preparing to begin the Year of Mercy on Dec. 8.

primary task as introducing the faithful to contemplate the greater mystery of God’s mercy by reflecting on the life of Jesus, and the jubilee can help people to be merciful in their lives, Archbishop Blair said. “The idea is to have local events so all of the people can participate and adopt God’s merciful attitude,” he explained. The Vatican is naming selected priests from around the world as special “missionaries of mercy.” The priests will undertake special

Mercy continued on page 27

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St. Thérèse continued from page 13

doesn’t matter what changes, it’s always my home. I was married in this parish, my children were baptized in this parish, and a few years ago my daughter was married in this parish. That just means so much to me. When my husband and I were married, actually, the altar was on the other end, so that changed, too,” Mrs. Wilcoxon added with a smile. The “best” Catholic church in Bradley County is trying to “do the best we can with the gifts we’ve

are a lot of Anglos coming from the north and settling around here. Our parish is very big. It has grown a lot. It is very vibrant,” she noted. Pam Wilcoxon has been a parishioner at St. Thérèse since 1974 and is head of the parish’s Women of Faith ministry. “We are a very diverse parish, and we are very fortunate to have such an active Hispanic group,” she said. “I have seen many changes and been through many priests. It

got,” Father Nolan said. The parish’s Three Kings Feast in December is a celebration for all of Cleveland — and the parish distributes toys and blankets and feeds all who attend. Work done by the Knights of Columbus, the Women of Faith and the John XXIII group is cited by many, including Father Nolan, as vital parish components to its outreach. Each fall, the parish holds a weekend homecoming celebration. When Bishop Adrian approved

installed and they wanted someone to do the installation. Being the first woman veteran commander, I jumped at the opportunity,” she said. “It’s very rewarding to see so many of our veterans, especially our Catholic veterans, wanting to create new posts, because the mission of the Catholic War Veterans is for God, country, and home. We’re here for our veterans and their families and the children. We have all kinds of programs available for the children – scholarship programs that we hope they take advantage of, especially eighth-graders going to Catholic high schools. Commander Crawford said among the services the Catholic war veterans will provide are assistance to Veterans Administration facilities like the Mountain Home VA hospital in Johnson City and VA clinics and centers in Chattanooga, the Tri-Cities, Morristown, Athens, Harriman, LaFollette, Rogersville, Sevierville, and Knoxville, as well as the Tennessee State Veterans’ Home in Knoxville. “Most of the veterans’ clinics and hospitals are looking for volunteers all the time. I volunteer, on average, twice a week driving patients from Columbus, Ohio, to Cincinnati or Dayton,” Mr. Crawford said. Like the Crawfords, Deacon Long also was excited to start the first post in Tennessee. He sees the volunteer The East Tennessee Catholic

BILL BREWER

Veterans continued from page 8

Taking the oath The newest members of the Catholic War Veterans of the United

States of America take the oath from Commander Arminda Crawford (left).

service as an important ministry in serving veterans. “When we took the oath as 18-yearolds or 20-year-olds, we said we will obey and we went. We just said send me where you want me and I will go,” he said, adding that U.S. military personnel always are in harm’s way, whether in Afghanistan or Chattanooga, and the OLOF post’s aim is to assist all veterans. He said the idea began when a visitor attended an Our Lady of Fatima Mass and asked the pastor, Father Bill McKenzie, if the parish had a Catholic War Veterans of the USA post and handed him a brochure.

Father McKenzie passed the idea to Deacon Long, who began doing some research and discovered there wasn’t a single post in five central southern states. “As dedicated to veterans as I am, that would be a great step, not only for Our Lady of Fatima, but for the Diocese of Knoxville. To have the first post in our diocese here at Our Lady of Fatima, we could be the flagship for all the other parishes,” Deacon Long said. He noted that the post also plans to be involved in an Adopt a Vet program, where volunteers are partnered with veterans and stay in contact

The Diocese of Knoxville Living our Roman Catholic faith in East Tennessee

construction of St. Thérèse in 1961, Father Hostettler asked him to consider three names for its dedication. St. Thérèse of Lisieux was at the top of his list. “She was a cloistered nun and never got out of the monastery. She was named co-patroness of missions in the whole world, and this was a mission parish in a sense,” Father Hostettler said. “I felt she was going to look after us and she did, and it’s still going strong.” ■ with them. “We thank you for what you do, no matter where you are, stateside or deployed somewhere like Afghanistan.” “We just want them to know they’re appreciated,” Deacon Long said. Deacon Long served in the Navy in the waters around Vietnam in three tours of duty from 1967-71. He said many of the veterans at OLOF are active in the parish already. “Very few of them are bench-warming Catholics. They’re pinch hitters, not bench warmers. Tim here volunteers for everything.” OLOF parishioner and veteran Tim Brown, who was installed as first vice commander of the OLOF post, sees participation in the Catholic War Veterans group as giving back. “That’s what we’re supposed to do. That’s our job as Catholics and former members of the military. We do what we can do for our friends, our family, and people in the community – give back to East Tennessee,” Mr. Brown said. “We’re a bunch of Catholic men and women who have come together to help all veterans. They don’t have to be Catholics to receive our help. We don’t have labels. To be a member of our group you have to be Catholic and you have to be a veteran – male or female. That’s the only requirement. Other than that we’ll put you to work,” Deacon Long said. ■ December 6, 2015 25

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he conveyed his message. “I think it’s great to see because he modernizes the Christian message. That is really important because it makes it relevant.” “I absolutely agree. I think he just tells it how it is. And you understand. It’s not how you would expect a Catholic priest to talk,” Blaine said. Father Richards connected with his audience on every level despite any differences in demographics. “I thought he was very good. Father Larry asks us to really embrace Jesus,” said Dr. Elijah Martin, a parishioner who serves as the diocesan coordinator for the Frassati Fellowship of Young Adults. “It was very refreshing to hear that, and to actually see the man who acts it out.” Continuing the theme of becoming a better man in the eyes of Jesus, Bishop Stika asked those on the retreat during his homily to also be the face, hands, and feet of Jesus as they strive Bottles continued from page 7

Mary School. “We had a team of people at every Mass that handed them out, and it was crazy and fun,” Ms. Merriman said. Throughout October, people filled the bottles with change. Although 400 bottles were handed out, more than 500 were returned. The amount raised will be announced when the committee presents the money to Catholic Charities in January. Other groups joined in making the fundraiser a success. The Knights of Columbus donated prayer cards to the drive. “With every baby bottle we had a prayer card in either English or Spanish so that they could reflect on pro-life issues while they were collecting money through the month,” Ms. Merriman explained. The committee also collaborated with the St. Vincent de Paul Society to hold a baby clothing and diaper drive. The volunteers set up a playpen in the church’s gathering area where people

26 December 6, 2015

to be better Christians and Catholics. The bishop also asked them to be better men by always being mindful of the choices they make with the free will God gives all of us. “This can have such an impact on the eternal life of a person,” Bishop Stika said. “The power of leading another person to sin can destroy them because it’s an act of selfishness. “That is a challenging thought. To me, what he [Father Richards] was saying is the most challenging; the gift that God gives to us, the gift of right from wrong and making choices — free will — can have such a major impact on the eternal life of another person,” the bishop said. “All of us are called to be the hands of Jesus, because the hands of Jesus would never let another person sin. The heart of Jesus would never ask you to love someone if you were leading them astray just to make you feel better, of ensnaring a person so you could donate baby clothes, diapers, wipes, and other items. The collected items will be donated locally through the Agape Center and the health department. Mary Meeks, who helped with the drive, added, “We’re letting people who come to our food pantry on a monthly basis know that if they have children and they have needs that they would be eligible for some items.” “We tried to get the whole parish involved, from kids to everybody,” Ms. Merriman said. The committee did not set a specific amount of dollars as a goal but rather focused on getting the entire parish to work together on the project. “This was just kind of a leap of faith, the fact that this committee worked with the Knights and then St. Vincent de Paul to get the baby diapers and stuff,” Ms. Merriman said. “We’re also trying to build community within, among different ministries, the youth group, CCD, and the school. So it was like a collaborative effort of everyone coming together.”■

can use them as an object. The feet of Jesus would never lead someone into a situation of damnation or harm. “I think what Father Larry was saying, the thing that he weaved, is that sin and the devil lets us use that which we love the most to destroy us — just what Pope Francis said. Just like with Padre Pio; the devil used an image of the Blessed Mother and an image of Jesus to try and trick him. We live in a perilous time,” Bishop Stika said. The bishop noted that he has resumed praying the prayer of St. Michael the Archangel to lead us away from the snares of the devil. “My hope for all of us here is that we take the words of Father Larry to heart. But even more than that, that we take the words of Jesus to heart. Did you notice that Father Larry always had the Bible in his hand. Billy Graham and other Bible preachers, Bible thumpers as my dad

used to call them, held the Word of God, too,” Bishop Stika said. “Padre Pio said the two greatest weapons against the devil — the evil one — are the rosary and Scripture.” Bishop Stika urged the men to, as the Church year comes to an end and the New Year approaches, resolve to get spiritually fit. He suggested they keep track of how much they pray just as they would track calories and exercise. “So as we begin another liturgical year and as we look to 2016, we can make some decisions about this next year: to be a man, to be a man of compassion, to be a man of charity, to be a man of forgiveness, to be a man who knows when to judge and when not to judge, but especially to be a man who believes in Christ, the king of our universe,” Bishop Stika said, encouraging the men to have more active spiritual lives and to become more active in their parishes. ■

Lord Jesus Come In the midst of pain, I seek your love.

Blue Christmas Mass A liturgy of hope for those experiencing pain and loss Christmas Eve, December 24th, 8 p.m. St. John XXIII Parish 1710 Melrose Place, Knoxville, TN 37916 Learn more at: http://www.john23rd.org/liturgy/blue-christmas-mass

The Diocese of Knoxville Living our Roman Catholic faith in East Tennessee

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By Dan McWilliams he St. Mary’s Legacy Clinic held its second annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon on Nov. 2 at St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Lenoir City. Several dozen volunteers attended a Mass and the luncheon, with many of them recognized at the latter event, including Mass celebrant Father Bill Gahagan and Glenmary Brother Craig Digmann. Gene Carter and Star Lakavage were named co-volunteers of the year. “This day is our chance to honor our volunteers and to thank them for being so generous with their time and their talents,” said Sister Mariana Koonce, RSM, MD, director

of Health Services for the Diocese of Knoxville. “They provide so much for the patients. We couldn’t operate the clinic without our volunteers, and we just want to make sure they know how much they are appreciated.” The choice of a November date for the luncheon is not a coincidence. “Since it’s the month of Thanksgiving, it’s a good opportunity to both thank God for his many blessings for the clinic and also to thank the volunteers themselves,” Sister Mariana said. The volunteers serve the clinic as it makes its mobile-medical stops in Washburn, Decatur, Crab Orchard, Rutledge, and Athens. The mobile

DAN MCWILLIAMS

St. Mary’s Legacy Clinic salutes volunteers at appreciation luncheon

Volunteer spirit St. Mary’s Legacy Clinic volunteers gather at the annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon at St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Lenoir City.

clinic was launched in 2013 and began to see patients in January 2014. “We have five sites. We go six

Mercy continued from page 24

activities, hear confessions, preach the church’s missionary message and “be welcoming signs of forgiveness. Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Louisville, Ky., USCCB president, said he met with Vatican officials following the Synod of Bishops on the family and learned that about 50 U.S. priests were to be designated a missionary of mercy. Ideas for local observances are identified on the USCCB website at www.usccb.org/jubilee-ofmercy. The list includes prayer, participation in the sacrament of reconciliation, Lenten activities and special events timed during World Youth Day festivities July 25-31 in Krakow, Poland. The Vatican has its own website for the jubilee at www.im.va. Numerous resources also have been developed by the USCCB. The archbishop told the general assembly that catechetical resources that focus on topics such as the psalms of mercy, saints in mercy and mercy in the teaching of the popes have been developed for local use. Individual USCCB committees have additional resources and are planning special events. For example, the annual Catholic Social Ministry Gathering for diocesan and parish-based social action staff will focus on the theme “Called to Live Mercy in Our Common Home” when it convenes Jan. 23-26. Social media also will be part of the effort. Archbishop Blair encouraged Catholics to promote everyday acts of mercy under the #mercyinmotion The East Tennessee Catholic

designation. “This jubilee of mercy is an inspiration,” said Shahrzad Houshmand, a Muslim scholar who

days a month,” Sister Mariana said. At the end of the luncheon, Sister Volunteers continued on page 38

teaches at Rome’s Pontifical Gregorian University. “At this difficult moment in history, it is time to return to the original name of God who, for all three of us (Christians, Jews, Muslims), is mercy. We have lost so much on the way because of pride, because we have not recognized each other as brothers and sisters and some have even gone so far astray that they see each other as enemies. This jubilee can help us return to the roots of our religious existence which is based on the name of God, the merciful.” For Rabbi Naftali Brawer, CEO of the Spiritual Capital Foundation in London, being religious means imitating God, particularly in the pursuit of justice and the demonstration of mercy. Making the world a better place, he said, “is all about individuals, it is about bottom up, it is about little acts of mercy. ... It’s not going to happen through conferences of interfaith leaders making more proclamations about the meaning of mercy or theologians delving deeply into what mercy means, but it’s about people of different faiths living together and trying to see the other for who the other really is and responding accordingly.” “It happens on the ground,” the rabbi said. “It happens in a million different little acts every day.” For Jews, he said, God’s justice and mercy go together. “There is a passage of Jewish teaching in the Talmud that states that if someone is merciful to the cruel, they will end up being cruel to the merciful. In other words, justice is important in Judaism; it is not just unadulterated mercy.” ■

The Diocese of Knoxville Living our Roman Catholic faith in East Tennessee

December 6, 2015 27

Diocese of Knoxville Annual Financial Report

BROWN JAKE & McDANIEL, PC CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS 2607 KINGSTON PIKE, SUITE 110 KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE 37919-3336 865/637-8600 • fax: 865/637-8601

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ: JOE L. BROWN, CPA, CGFM, CGMA

FRANK D. McDANIEL, CPA, CGFM, CGMA Greetings in the name of the one who is and was and is to come, Jesus our Savior! TERRY L. MOATS, CPA, CGFM, CGMA During this Advent season, as we celebrate once more His first coming and pray for the JAMES E. BOOHER, CPA, CGMA grace to greet Him when He comes in glory, I am providing you a report in The East JOE L. BROWN, CPA, CGFM, CGMA Tennessee Catholic on the financial health of the Diocese of Knoxville.

As I write this letter, I am reminded of the words Pope Francis shared in one of his many general audiences:

FRANK D. McDANIEL, CPA, CGFM, CGMA TERRY L. MOATS, CPA, CGFM, CGMA Most Reverend Richard F. JAMES E. BOOHER, CPA, CGMA

“...it is important not to turn in on ourselves, burying our own talent, our spiritual, intellectual and material riches, everything that the Lord has given us; but, rather to open ourselves, to be supportive, to be attentive to others...Life is not given to us to be jealously guarded for ourselves, but is given to us so that we may give it in turn.” With these inspiring words, our Holy Father captured the essence of Christian stewardship. As disciples, we regard all that we are and all that we possess as gifts and blessings, and realize the need to share these blessings with others for the sake of the kingdom of God. By opening your heart in generous support of the Diocese of Knoxville, you share in the ministries of prayer and worship, education and service, social concerns and works of charity that would not be possible without your financial commitment. As your Bishop, I am entrusted with ensuring the proper stewardship of all our resources. Through your generous sharing of time, talents, financial resources and prayers, the Diocese of Knoxville has been the beneficiary of your gifts, which continue to be wisely and prudently used to advance the mission of the Church. I offer my deepest appreciation for your great generosity. As good stewards of what you have entrusted to us, we strive to be fiscally responsible and transparent. Please take this opportunity to review the financial statements of our diocese and familiarize yourself with all that has been accomplished and what is being done so graciously and generously by the Catholic faithful. Know that I am aware of the sacrifices you make in order to provide generously for the many works that God has placed in the care of the Diocese of Knoxville. You are living witnesses of Christian stewardship, and I welcome this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation for your ongoing support. With my blessings and love to you all, I am Sincerely in Christ,

Most Reverend Richard F. Stika

BROWN JAKE & McDANIEL, PC CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS 2607 KINGSTON PIKE, SUITE 110 KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE 37919-3336 865/637-8600 • fax: 865/637-8601

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT Stika

MEMBERS AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

Diocese of Knoxville Chancery Office 805 Northshore Drive INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT Knoxville, TN 37919 Most Reverend Richard F. Stika We have audited the accompanying financial statements of Diocese of Knoxville Chancery Office (a nonprofit organization), Diocese of Knoxville which comprise Chancery Office the statements of financial position as of June 30, 2015 and 2014, and the related statements of activities andNorthshore cash flowsDrive for the years then ended, and the related notes to the financial statements. 805 Knoxville, TN 37919 Management’s Responsibility for the Financial Statements We have auditedisthe accompanying financial statements Diocese of Knoxville Chancery Officestatements (a nonprofitinorganization), Management responsible for the preparation and offair presentation of these financial accordance with which comprise the statements of financial of June 30, 2015 and 2014, the related statements of activities and accounting principles generally acceptedposition in the as United States of America; thisand includes the design, implementation, and cash flows for the yearscontrol then ended, andtothe notes toand thefair financial statements. maintenance of internal relevant therelated preparation presentation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. Management’s Responsibility for the Financial Statements

Auditor’s Responsibility Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in accordance with accounting principlesis generally accepted in the States ofstatements America; this includes design, Our responsibility to express an opinion on United these financial based on ourthe audits. Weimplementation, conducted our and audits in maintenance internal control relevantgenerally to the preparation and presentation of America. financial statements that arerequire free from accordance of with auditing standards accepted in thefair United States of Those standards that we material misstatement, to fraud or error. assurance about whether the financial statements are free from material plan and perform thewhether audit todue obtain reasonable misstatement. Auditor’s Responsibility

An responsibility audit involves performing obtain auditstatements evidence based about on theour amounts disclosuresour in audits the financial Our is to express anprocedures opinion on to these financial audits. and We conducted in statements.with The procedures selected depend on theinauditor’s judgment, assessment of the risksthat of we material accordance auditing standards generally accepted the United States ofincluding America.theThose standards require misstatement of the theaudit financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. makingstatements those riskare assessments, the auditor plan and perform to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the In financial free from material considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in order to misstatement. design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts disclosures in the evaluating financial the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. and An audit also includes statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate the circumstances, for the purpose of expressing opinion on the We believe that the audit evidence we haveinobtained is sufficientbut andnot appropriate to provide a basis foranour audit opinion. effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes evaluating the Basis for Qualified Opinion policies used and the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by appropriateness of accounting management, evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. As explainedas in well Noteas14 to the financial statements, management has elected not to report actuarially determined other postretirement employee benefit costs expenses the associated obligationtoas a liability. Accounting principles We believe that the audit evidence weas have obtainedand is sufficient and appropriate provide a basis for our audit opinion. generally accepted in the United States of America require that actuarially determined other post-retirement employee benefit costs be Basis for Qualified Opinion reported as expenses and the associated obligation be reported as a liability. The effects on the accompanying financial statements of Note the failure to report actuarially determined otherhas post-retirement benefit determined costs as expenses and the As explained in 14 to the financial statements, management elected not toemployee report actuarially other postassociated obligation as a liability not been retirement employee benefit costs ashave expenses anddetermined. the associated obligation as a liability. Accounting principles generally accepted in Opinion the United States of America require that actuarially determined other post-retirement employee benefit costs be Qualified reported as expenses and the associated obligation be reported as a liability. The effects on the accompanying financial statements of the except failure toforreport actuarially determined other post-retirement employee benefitOpinion costs asparagraph, expenses and In our opinion, the effects of the matter described in the Basis for Qualified the the financial associated obligation liabilitypresent have not beenindetermined. statements referredas toaabove fairly, all material respects, the financial position of Diocese of Knoxville Chancery Office as of June 30, 2015 and 2014, and the changes in its net assets and its cash flows for the years then ended in Qualified Opinion accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In our opinion, except for the effects of the matter described in the Basis for Qualified Opinion paragraph, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Diocese of Knoxville Chancery Office as of June 30, 2015 and 2014, and the changes in its net assets and its cash flows for the years then ended in Knoxville, Tennessee accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. October 30, 2015

Knoxville, Tennessee October 30, 2015

Bishop of Knoxville

28 December 6, 2015

MEMBERS AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

 

The Diocese of Knoxville Living our Roman Catholic faith in East Tennessee

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dioknox.org

Statement of Activities June 30, 2015 Source of funds $11,079,788

Unrealized gains/investments Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (SFAS) No. 124 requires that investments be recorded at market value rather than at cost, and this results in the recognition of unrealized gains/losses. Pastoral Grants to parishes and institutions; Diocesan Council of Catholic Women grant; Youth Min istry; Hispanic Ministry; Campus Ministry; Evangelization; Justice and Peace; Marriage Preparation and Enrichment.

The East Tennessee Catholic

Use of funds $10,073,920

Parish assessments Administrative assessment for dioces an governance/administration; seminarian assessment for vocations promotion; reimbursement for priest health insurance and retirement; communications assessment for The East Tennessee Catholic newspaper and online programs; school assessment for the operation of the Catholic Schools Office; assessment for the diocesan diaconate program. Education Religious Education and Catholic Schools offices.

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Annual Financial Report

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The Diocese of Knoxville Living our Roman Catholic faith in East Tennessee

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Annual Financial Report

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Annual Financial Report

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The Diocese of Knoxville Living our Roman Catholic faith in East Tennessee

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Annual Financial Report

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The Diocese of Knoxville Living our Roman Catholic faith in East Tennessee

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Living the readings

Weekday readings Tuesday, Dec. 1: Isaiah 11:110; Psalm 72:1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17; Luke 10:21-24 Wednesday, Dec. 2: Isaiah 25:6-10; Psalm 23:1-6; Matthew 15:29-37 Thursday, Dec. 3: Isaiah 26:16; Psalm 118:1, 8-9, 19-21, 25-27; Matthew 7:21, 24-27 Friday, Dec. 4: Isaiah 29:1724; Psalm 27:1,4, 13-14; Matthew 9:27-31 Saturday, Dec. 5: Isaiah 30:19-21, 23-26; Psalm 147:16; Matthew 9:35–10:1, 5-8 Sunday, Dec. 6: Second Sunday of Advent, Baruch 5:1-9; Psalm 126:1-6; Philippians 1:4-6, 8-11; Luke 3:1-6 Monday, Dec. 7: Isaiah 35:110; Psalm 85:9-14; Luke 5:17-26 Tuesday, Dec. 8: Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Genesis 3:9-15, 20; Psalm 98:1-4; Ephesians 1:3-6, 11-12; Luke 1:26-38 Wednesday, Dec. 9: Isaiah 40:25-31; Psalm 103:1-4, 8, 10; Matthew 11:28-30 Thursday, Dec. 10: Isaiah 41:13-20; Psalm 145:1, 9-13; Matthew 11:11-15 Friday, Dec. 11: Isaiah 48:1719; Psalm 1:1-4, 6; Matthew 11:16-19 Saturday, Dec. 12: Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Zechariah 2:14-17; Judith 13:18-19; Luke 1:26-38 Sunday, Dec. 13: Third Sunday of Advent; Zephaniah 3:14-18; Isaiah 12:2-6; Philippians 4:4-7; Luke 3:10-18 Monday, Dec. 14: Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17; Psalm 25:4-9; Matthew 21-23-27 Tuesday, Dec. 15: Zephaniah 3:1-2, 9-13; Psalm 34:2-3, 6-7, 17-19, 23; Matthew 21:28-32 Wednesday, Dec. 16: Isaiah 45:6-8, 18, 21-25; Psalm 85:914; Luke 7:18-23 Thursday, Dec. 17: Genesis

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by Father Joseph Brando

Preparing for the end We live in time and eternity as Christ offers us eternal life

t may seem strange to many that the liturgical calendar begins with our preparation and celebration of the birth of the Messiah whereas our daily calendar (which is a Christian product) begins on the octave day of Christmas when the feast is all over. Perhaps this minor vortex of beginnings and endings is purposely mixed up to get us to realize that we live not only in time but eternity. When God became man and was born of the Virgin Mary, entering into the world with him was the eternity that is God. Through his death and resurrection, Christ offers us eternal life. If we accept that offer and are baptized, we have chosen to live the eternal life that is heaven. Then every day is a preparation for and a recent past experience of the Lord’s presence in our lives. So past, present and future fuse together in Christ. That leads us to the questions that must be answered as we dwell in space and time, namely what must we do and what must we be to enter into eternal joy? The Scripture readings of this season of Advent present the questions and answers we need to get started. The readings of the liturgies of Christmas and the Holy Family challenge us to live here on earth as we would do in heaven. We will begin by analyzing the Advent Sunday readings even though the First Sunday of Advent comes on Nov. 29 this year. In the readings of the First Sunday of Advent, the Gospel presents Jesus’ picture of the end of the world and how we should react to it. The second reading presents Paul’s advice on what we should be doing in preparation for the end. The Old Testament reading refers to a time the Jews thought the end had come for them. Yet, they didn’t factor in

Perhaps this minor vortex of beginnings and endings is purposely mixed up to get us to realize that we live not only in time but eternity. God’s amazing mercy. In that passage from the prophet Jeremiah, the city of Jerusalem had been destroyed by the Babylonians, and all the educated people were exiled to Babylon. It looked as if the people of Israel had come to an end, and with them, the religion of the true God. Life was sad. But, Jeremiah, while recognizing the past tragedy and present sadness, announces a promise from God. God will raise up one from the family line of David who will re-establish Israel and rebuild the Temple. In effect, this has been done more than once. The promise was fulfilled during the lifetimes of some of those deportees to Babylon. The clear message to us is that God is just in that the sins we cling to will lead to destruction. But God also is merciful in that he redeems us and gives us new life. We shouldn’t forget, when we are mourning, that God still has a promise of joy for us. In the Gospel reading, Luke presents Jesus’ short description of the last day. People will die of fright when they see the sky shaken and hear the roaring of the seas. There will be many tribulations among the people. What should we do? First off, we must realize it is the unjust and prideful people whose plans for the future do not consider that this world will end. Jesus’ message is for us to stand up and raise our heads because our redemption and the vindication of a life lived for God is at hand. Just so, every day from now to the end we should stay sober, vigilant, prayerful, and strong. The second Sunday of Advent

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begins with the prophet Baruch. He was one of the leaders of the Jews back in their homeland. He shouts to his people (still weary from the happenings of the last few decades) to change their clothes. He wants them to put on “party” clothing that represents the glory of God, justice, and God’s eternal power. The new clothes are to show off to the rest of the world the happiness that God’s power and glory brings. Then everyone can certify that God is leading Israel in joy! In the second reading, Paul begins his letter to the Philippians extolling the joy he wants for this Christian community in particular and for all of us Christians. What better time to hear this message than in the holiday season? We have free rein to be outrageously gleeful, not because of upcoming gifts, but by the sheer happiness of Christ’s presence in our lives. Luke’s Gospel pulls out all the stops to formally introduce the coming of salvation into our world. But he didn’t do it for the incarnation or the birth of the savior, both of which he has already beautifully pictured. Luke underscores John the Baptist’s preaching in the desert. In the middle of nowhere where the Jordan River drains into the Dead Sea, at the lowest altitude in the entire world, John speaks his message. And the people responded, making straight the way for the Lord. The third Sunday of Advent reveals an important factor little noticed. We all know that the main force of Advent is how close God is to coming to his people. That generates an abundance of strong feelings. The first reading demands that daughter Zion should shout for joy — an unabashed demonstration of deep, happy emotions. Zephaniah also urges us to sing. We are to display the letting loose of all our emotions that had been penned up by fear. With the presence of God so

Christmas continued on page 35 dioknox.org

Readings continued from page 34 Christmas continued from page 34

close we are free to voice and display all our happy emotions. Paul agrees entirely. His call, in the second reading, is for us to rejoice in the Lord always. Zephaniah labeled the main problem as fear; Paul calls it anxiety. They both are in agreement. Anxieties are the result of fear and both are eliminated when the power of God approaches. God’s presence eliminates our fears and the anxiety that comes with it. We can, therefore, be open with our feelings of joy. The result of letting go of fear and sharing our positive joy-filled feelings comes out in the Gospel passage from Luke. The people ask en masse as well as singularly, “what should we do?” John replies with the obvious. What would anyone do who is exceedingly and justifiably happy? He or she would share their joy with friends. If the friend lacks anything that would stop them from the same level of joy, then he or she would give them what they need. It’s all a matter of feelings being released from a prison of fear and anxiety. Luke ends his passage introducing us to John the Baptist by writing, “He preached good news to the people.” So should all of us this Advent. The fourth Sunday of Advent highlights the differences between the Old and New Testament understanding of what the birth of the Messiah does. Both are correct. In the first reading from the book of the prophet Micah, the Messiah reunites Judaism. What had been one nation of 12 tribes was divided into two (Israel and Judah). This Messiah, from his birth, was of the house of David foreshadowing the return of the united kingdom under David, which thrived 1,000 years earlier. There would be unity and peace again. The second reading from the Epistle to the Hebrews has a complementary take on these events. The author sees the Messiah putting an end to The East Tennessee Catholic

sacrifice and sin offerings in favor of the simple doing of God’s will. Religion changes from blindly obeying words on a page to an interpersonal relationship with God forming a dialogue based on mutual love. The bottom line for Christians is that Jesus offered himself to the Father for all of us and we follow through likewise. There are four Masses for Christmas, including: the vigil Mass, the Mass during the night, the Mass at dawn, and the Mass during the day. They are all most beautiful and filled with insights that stretch our imaginations and our faith. An in-depth analysis of them would expand this article to a book. Let the following précis sum them up. The task is equivalent to placing a child in the middle of a vast toy store expecting the child to choose the one present he or she wants. The vigil Mass gives us Matthew’s story of Jesus’ birth after he presented the genealogy of Jesus from Abraham. Paul also looks at Jesus’ heritage, emphasizing his descent from David. Isaiah highlights the readings with a plea for joy, “as a bridegroom rejoices in his bride, so shall your God rejoice in you.” The Mass during the night begins with Isaiah once again. He announces “the people who walked in darkness have seen a great light … for a child is born to us, a son is given us; upon his shoulder dominion rests.” Paul follows this with, “The grace of God has appeared…who gave himself for us to deliver us from lawlessness and to cleanse for himself a people of his own, eager to do what is good.” Luke concludes the Liturgy of the Word with his classic rendition of the birth of Jesus complete with angels appearing to shepherds and finding Him in swaddling clothes in a manger. The Mass at dawn begins quietly with Isaiah telling daughter Zion her savior is coming to make them a holy people, the redeemed of the

Lord. Paul echoes these sentiments by explaining that God’s kindness and generous love appeared to us not because of us, but through His mercy. And so, we are justified by His grace and become heirs in hope of eternal life. The Gospel repeats the finale of Luke’s description, leaving us with the words, “Then, the shepherds returned glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, just as it had been told to them.” The Mass during the day presents the items we should take away with us to meditate on for the entire new year. Isaiah shouts, “Your God is King…He comforts his people, he redeems Jerusalem…all the ends of the earth will behold the salvation of our God.” The author of Hebrews keeps the word going forth, “In these last days, he has spoken to us through the Son, whom he made heir of all things and through whom he created the universe.” And finally, we read the introduction to the Gospel of John. “The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world came to be through him…but the world did not know him…But to those who did accept him he gave power to become children of God. What happens to most of us during the days of Advent and Christmas is that we eat and drink too much. In one way it is appropriate. We are also filled with more theology than we can digest. Where does it all lead? One answer can be found in the last Sunday of December, the feast of the Holy Family. Christmas will never fade away as long as we bring the lofty thoughts of Advent and Christmas to be consumed in tiny pieces as table talk at family meals and good conversation in our living rooms. That’s where Christmas becomes real. ■ Father Brando is retired from the active priesthood in the Diocese of Knoxville.

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49:2, 8-10; Psalm 72:1-4, 7-8, 17; Matthew 1:1-17 Friday, Dec. 18: Jeremiah 23:5-8; Psalm 72:1-2, 12-13, 18-19; Matthew 1:18-25 Saturday, Dec. 19: Judges 13:2-7, 24-25; Psalm 71:3-6, 16-17; Luke 1:5-25 Sunday, Dec. 20: Fourth Sunday of Advent, Micah 5:1-4; Psalm 80:2-3, 15-16, 1819; Hebrews 10:5-10; Luke 1:39-45 Monday, Dec. 21: Song of Songs 2:8-14; Psalm 33:2-3, 11-12, 20-21; Luke 1:39-45 Tuesday, Dec. 22: 1 Samuel 1:24-28; 1 Samuel 2:1, 4-8; Luke 1:46-56 Wednesday, Dec. 23: Malachi 3:1-4, 23-24; Psalm 25:4-5, 8-10, 14; Luke 1:57-66 Thursday, Dec. 24: 2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8-12, 14, 16; Psalm 89:2-5, 27, 29; Luke 1:67-79; vigil for the Nativity of the Lord, Isaiah 62:1-5; Psalm 89:4-5, 16-17, 27, 29; Acts 13:16-17, 22-25; Matthew 1:1-25 Friday, Dec. 25: Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord, night: Isaiah 9:1-6; Psalm 96:1-3, 11-13; Titus 2:11-14; Luke 2:1-14; dawn: Isaiah 62-1112; Psalm 97:1, 6, 11-12; Titus 3:4-7; Luke 2:15-20; day: Isaiah 52:7-10; Psalm 98:1-6; Hebrews 1:1-6; John 1:1-18 Saturday, Dec. 26: Acts 6:810 and 7:54-59; Psalm 31:3-4, 6, 8, 16-17; Matthew 10:17-22 Sunday, Dec. 27: Feast of the Holy Family, Sirach 3:2-6, 1214; Psalm 128: 1-5; Colossians 3:12-21; Luke 2:41-52 Monday, Dec. 28: 1 John 1:5 2:2; Psalm 124:2-5, 7-8; Matthew 2:13-18 Tuesday, Dec. 29: 1 John 2:311; Psalm 96:1-3, 5-6; Luke 2:22-35 Wednesday, Dec. 30: 1 John 2:12-17; Psalm 96:7-10; Luke 2:36-40 Thursday, Dec. 31: 1 John 2:18-21; Psalm 96:1-2, 11-13; John 1:1-18 ■

December 6, 2015 35

Once upon a time

by Monsignor Xavier Mankel

’Tis the season for the Prince of Peace

Christmas evokes memories of people who decorated our lives during the sacred holiday

hristmas time again. While it’s one thing to wish peace on earth to people of good will, those sentiments won’t fit in all cases (as much as you and I wish such sentiments to prevail). It seems to be a world of terrorism exaggerated by events in the Near East and in France within the last few days. The Prince of Peace came from the Near East and for hundreds of years France was called the eldest daughter of the Church. During the Second World War, Bishop William L. Adrian forbade midnight Masses in our parishes. There were no vigil Masses in those days so the earliest a Christmas Mass could begin was at 5 a.m. on Christmas morning. In those days there were only three priests in the entire Knoxville area: the pastors at Immaculate Conception and Holy Ghost parishes, and the chaplain at St. Mary’s Memorial Hospital. With so few places to have Masses, it’s not hard to figure out why the few parishes were so very crowded on Christmas and Easter. In Immaculate Conception, the 5 a.m. Mass had an overflow crowd and the other two were equally packed. I remember the heat (it’s hard to regulate steam heat, so even with a trace of steam coming in from the basement, it was much too hot). Immaculate Conception seats about 550 people, and the church ushers crammed in several hundred more people for Christmas Masses. The hottest place of all was the choir loft. It was not unusual for singers to faint. When I was a child our family sat on row 15. But with all the cramming, children

36 December 6, 2015

There was an elderly lady from Immaculate Conception who added to her meager income by decorating Christmas candles. People used them for wreaths, table decorations, or at their doors. ... She delivered the decorated candles in shopping bags stuffed with tissue paper to keep the contents from breaking. Her Christmas gifts to people were rosaries. could not see what was going on in the sanctuary. I must have been in the second or third grade before I figured out that the priest and servers were real people, not just statues with vestments on. When we went to Mass it was dark (when we came home it was dark, too), and those who decorated used cedar trees. The odor, plus the heat, made it very different from the pictures we get of Christmas carols sung over the radio. Other Christmas memories: There was an elderly lady from Immaculate Conception who added to her meager income by decorating Christmas candles. People used them for wreaths, table decorations, or at their doors. The candles ranged in length from nine inches to two feet, and from half an inch to five inches in diameter. Mrs. Elly Long would take orders beginning in the fall. Most of the candles were red and were decorated in green. A few benefactors kept Mrs. Elly supplied, so her overhead was very low. She delivered the decorated candles in shopping bags stuffed with tissue paper to keep the contents from breaking. Her Christmas gifts to people were rosaries. I had asthma as a child, and it was not unusual for

Mrs. Elly to pray 10 rosaries that I would be able to breathe more comfortably. She was interested in vocations, too. There is no telling how many Hail Marys she prayed for that intention. Our diocese has been blessed with saints who offered their prayers for the needs of the Church. At an early morning Mass (once we were permitted to have a midnight Mass once again), Father Christopher P. Murray, the pastor, was preaching. Sitting on the uncomfortable sedilia were the celebrant, Father Ned Elliott, the assistant pastor, and two servers, John T. O’Connor and I (it must have been Christmas 1945). A child seated with his parents broke loose and came toward the pulpit. He climbed through the Communion rail and headed for the Nativity crib. Father Murray spotted the child and motioned to Father Elliott to handle the matter. He turned and told John O’Connor, the oldest of six children, to get the child, which he did by picking the child up from behind. All was going well until the server and his unusual load entered the dark sacristy and the little boy began to scream. At that moment the distraught mother entered the sacristy, retrieved her child, and things began to settle down. Father Murray finished his sermon, the Mass continued, and all was well. Many other parishes had similar stories to tell. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! ■ Monsignor Mankel is a vicar general and the historical archivist for the Diocese of Knoxville.

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Upcoming Virtus training sessions The Diocese of Knoxville’s program for the protection of children, youth and vulnerable adults is offered throughout the diocese. The seminars are required for parish and school employees and regular volunteers in contact with children and vulnerable adults. The following training sessions are scheduled: ■ St.

Dominic, Kingsport, 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9; ■ Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul, Chattanooga, noon Wednesday, Dec. 16; ■ All Saints, Knoxville, 10:30 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 9; ■ St. Mary School, Johnson City, 5:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 11.

Schedule continued from page 2 ■ Dec. 17: Chancery Advent open house for Catholic Charities and Sacred Heart Cathedral staff ■ Dec. 22: Advent gathering for priests and seminarians at the residence ■ Dec. 24: Midnight Mass at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

DOK history books available Diocese of Knoxville parishioners looking for a unique Christmas gift this holiday season can still obtain copies of the History of the Diocese of Knoxville, a 160-page coffee-table book in full color that details the earliest days of the Catholic Church in East Tennessee through the formation of the diocese to the present day. Please contact your parish priest or the Chancery at 865-584-3307 for copies. ■

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Marriage enrichment

Funeral services held for Sr. Mary LaStant Sister Mary LaStant, BVM, died Nov. 2 at Marian Hall in Dubuque, Iowa. She was 89. A funeral Mass was held last month, and the burial was in Mount Carmel cemetery in Dubuque. In the Diocese of Knoxville, Sister Mary taught at Our Lady of Perpetual Help School in Chattanooga from 1984-86. She Sister Mary also was an elementary school teacher in Sacramento and Glendale, Calif.; Dubuque; and Chicago. She worked in food service at a parish in Berwyn, Ill. She was born in Dubuque on Aug. 10, 1926, to Ernest and Margaret (Melloy) LaStant. She entered the BVM congregation Sept. 8, 1944, from St. Raphael Cathedral in Dubuque. She professed first vows on March 19, 1947, and final vows on Aug. 15, 1952. She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, John, and a sister, Rita. She is survived by a niece, nephews, and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 71 years. Memorials may be given to the Sisters of Charity, BVM Support Fund, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa 52003, or online at www.bvmcong.org/whatsnew_ obits.cfm. ■

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The East Tennessee Catholic

by Marian Christiana

Celebrating marriage

Strong, long-lasting partnerships serve as role models for us all

ishop Richard F. Stika and the Office of Marriage and Enrichment will be honoring long-lasting marriages in February. Before I get into the details of that, let me discuss the importance of long-lasting marriages. Long-lasting marriages are an inspiration to all of us. Marriages tend to ebb and flow over the years through good times and bad. When we see others who have worked through adversity it gives us hope in our ability to sustain a lifelong, loving marriage. Those men and women in long-term marriages are role models for the rest of us even if they don’t realize it. Recently my sister, Kass, lost her husband, Tom “Tommy” DuRoss, quite suddenly. Kass and Tommy were married for 36 years. Their marriage was based on faith, family, friends and service. Their life together had an extremely positive ripple effect throughout their circle of influence. I don’t think they were consciously trying to be good role models for a sacramental marriage, but role models they were just the same. The positive effect of their strong partnership began very early in their marriage. They collected friends wherever they lived, worked and played. Hospitality was a cornerstone of their home. As a direct result of their hospitality, five other couples met and married their spouses. My husband, Ralph, and I are one of those couples. Although two of the other husbands have

We need to celebrate the success stories of our marriages and of the strong marriages around us. We need to hold up long-lasting marriages as signs of hope, proof that we can last through the good times as well as times of struggle. preceded Tommy in death, these couples can boast of 200 years of marriage among them. Hopefully, all five of the marriages that can trace the origins of their own relationship to the friendship they shared with Tommy and Kass have had their own positive influence on the communities in which they live. We need to celebrate the success stories of our marriages and of the strong marriages around us. We need to hold up long-lasting marriages as signs of hope, proof that love can last through the good times as well as times of struggle. Marriage has really taken a hit in our modern Western culture. Rarely is a happily married couple the central theme of a movie, television show or a popular song. Social media, along with other forms of media, promote the destructive end of relationships as inevitable. Our culture makes it seem impossible to be happily married for a lifetime. It is not impossible. In fact, it is quite possible! Proof is all around us. We need to be shouting our successes from the rooftops and holding couples like Tommy and Kass up as wonderful examples of marriages that have lasted.

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To this end, Bishop Stika and the Office of Marriage Preparation will be celebrating long-lasting marriages in various ways throughout the month of February. First, we will use diocesan social media outlets to share uplifting stories of married couples within our diocese, those who have made a positive impact in their circle of influence. My office will be posting your submitted stories on our Marriage Enrichment portion of the diocesan website, our Marriage Enrichment Facebook page and on the main Facebook page for the diocese. If you would like to submit a story about a long-lasting marriage that has inspired you, please submit it to me by Jan. 11 at mchristiana@ dioknox.org with the subject title “A Marriage Love Story.” Please limit your stories to 300 words. Also, we will submit bulletin notices to all parishes each week in February that will offer a marriage enrichment tip for the week. And if you would like to get a head start in reading and incorporating positive tips for successful marriages into your daily routine, you can find them at http://www.foryourmarriage.org/ marriage-resources/ tips-and-advice/ In addition, Bishop Stika is initiating an effort to annually recognize the longest-married couple in each of our parishes. Inspired by Worldwide Marriage Encounter’s (WWME) “Longest Married Couple

Marriage continued on page 39

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December 6, 2015 37

Understanding the sacraments

by Father Randy Stice

Misal Romano, Tercera Edición Latest edition of Roman Missal’s Spanish translation may speed up approval of U.S. version

n recent columns I have discussed the new Order of Matrimony and the new translation of the Order of Confirmation. In this column I want to introduce the Misal Romano, Tercera Edición, the Spanish translation of the Roman Missal, Third Edition. The English translation was introduced four years ago on the First Sunday of Advent 2011. The text for the Misal Romano, Tercera Edición has been submitted to the Holy See for approval (recognitio). The basis for the U.S. Spanish Missal is the Misal Romano, Tercera Edición produced by the Mexican bishops and approved by the Apostolic See. It is hoped that this will expedite the approval of the U.S. missal. The U.S. edition will differ from the Mexican edition in four ways. First, the proper calendar for the United States will replace the Mexican calendar. Second, the U.S. edition will have 21 Latin American patronal feasts to reflect the presence of many different immigrant populations among the Spanish-speaking faithful in the United States. A third addition is a Spanish translation of the “Norms for the Distribution and Reception of Holy Communion under Both Kinds in the Dioceses of the United States of America.” Fourth, the U.S. edition will include the U.S. adaptations for the General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM). The Apostolic See asks each Conference of Bishops to formulate adaptations for their dioceses, subject to the approval of Rome. One of the guiding principles for adaptations is stated in the section on the gesture for venerating the altar, which in the United States is

38 December 6, 2015

A couple of examples of adaptations granted to U.S. dioceses. In general, “the table of a fixed altar should be of stone and indeed of natural stone” (GIRM, 301). However, in the United States “wood which is dignified, solid and well-crafted may be used, provided that the altar is structurally immobile. done by kiss. The General Instruction states: “where a sign of this kind is not in harmony with the traditions or the culture of some region, it is for the Conference of Bishops to establish some other sign in its place, with the consent of the Apostolic See” (GIRM, 273). Let me give a couple of examples of adaptations granted to U.S. dioceses. In general, “the table of a fixed altar should be of stone and indeed of natural stone” (GIRM, 301). However, in the United States “wood which is dignified, solid and well-crafted may be used, provided that the altar is structurally immobile” (GIRM, 301). Another example is the color of sacred vestments. “Besides the color violet, the colors white or black may be used at funeral services and at other Offices and Masses for the Dead in the Dioceses of the United States” (GIRM, n. 346e). Adaptations in the GIRM are indicated by the phrase, “in the Dioceses of the United States.” The subject of adaptations is addressed in GIRM, 390. The Misal Romano, Tercera Edición will follow the layout and content of the English-language Roman Missal, Third Edition. Unlike other Spanish-language editions, the U.S. edition will include music for all

the dialogues between the priest and people and each Preface. The text with music will appear alongside the text, and an appendix will contain additional musical settings. The chant settings will follow the intonations found in the Englishlanguage Roman Missal. The Misal Romano, Tercera Edición will have short pastoral biographies of American saints and blessed as well as an appendix with biographies of patronal feasts. It will have the same number of illustrations as the English-language Roman Missal, and the artwork will reflect the Hispanic culture. In order to encourage Marian devotion, it will include several Mass formularies and Prefaces in the Common of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The American bishops plan to produce a series of catechetical videos in Spanish to introduce the new missal. Topics include a history of the Mass from the Council of Trent to today, an explanation of the process of translation, and instruction on the structure and historical background of the Mass. There also will be catechesis on notable changes, such as the change in the formula of consecration of the wine from “for all (por todos los hombres)” to “for many (por muchos).” The goal is a translation and ritual book that “will serve as a unifying text for Spanish-speaking Catholics in the United States” and reflect the diversity of our Spanishspeaking population. ■

Diocese of Knoxville in compliance with child protection requirements The Diocese of Knoxville is in compliance with data collection requirements for the 2014-15 audit period set forth by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. According to a Nov. 6 letter to Bishop Richard F. Stika from the USCCB child protection auditors, StoneBridge Business Partners of Rochester, N.Y., the audit has been completed and a compliance report has been reviewed by StoneBridge and will be forwarded to the Secretariat of Youth and Child Protection for use in the 2015 Audit Report. ■

Volunteers continued from page 27

Martha Naber, RSM, mission liaison for Tennova Healthcare, and Sister Mariana anointed the hands of the volunteers, continuing a Sisters of Mercy tradition begun during the days of St. Mary’s Medical Center. Providing entertainment before the luncheon was the Pickin’ ’n’ Grinnin’ Bluegrass Jam band from Dandridge. ■

Want to try online delivery? The East Tennessee Catholic offers online delivery for those who wish to receive a digital copy and discontinue the print edition. Sign up for online delivery at bit.ly/subscribe-online. If you decide online delivery isn’t for you, you can return to a print subscription at any time. If you have questions, e-mail bbrewer @dioknox.org.

Father Stice is pastor of St. Mary Church in Athens and directs the diocesan Oﬃce of Worship and Liturgy. He can be reached at frrandy@dioknox.org.

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All Saints Day rosary is held By Dan McWilliams ore than 80 people attended the annual All Saints Day rosary Nov. 1 at Calvary Cemetery in Knoxville. “It’s about 85 people, which is the biggest in the last few years anyway,” said Father Ron Franco, CSP, pastor of Immaculate Conception in downtown Knoxville, which maintains the Catholic cemetery. Father Franco, vicar general Monsignor Xavier Mankel, Father John Dowling, pastor of Holy Ghost in Knoxville, and seminarian Michael Hennessy, CSP, took turns leading a decade of the sorrowful mysteries of the rosary. Those attending the rosary followed the presiders as they processed around a circular drive at the cemetery.

DAN MCWILLIAMS

Rest in peace Father Ron Franco, CSP, and Father John Dowling, lead a rosary at Calvary Cemetery in Knoxville on Nov. 1.

“Many of these people have relatives or close friends who are buried here, and so certainly for them it’s an important thing,” said Father Franco, “but it’s for all of us to realize that we’re all connected with these people, and we all need to pray for one another and for those who have died, and so it’s a good opportunity for us all to gather and do that.” Donna Irwin Stokes and Patsy Connelly were among the many

attending the rosary. “It means a lot to me,” said Mrs. Stokes. “My parents are buried here, most of my aunts and uncles, my grandmother. It means a lot, so that’s why I keep coming. I try to [keep coming every year]. I have for about the last five.” Those attending the rosary have a special camaraderie. Mrs. Connelly’s family has long been associated with Calvary

Cemetery. “I have relatives who have been here for over a hundred years, and it was a tradition that my mother started us coming as children [to the rosary],” she said. “Then I’ve got four brothers here, and my husband is also buried here, so it means a whole lot to me.” The Ladies of Charity of Knoxville provided refreshments at the rosary. ■

Advent penance services scheduled for churches around the diocese

ere is a list of remaining Advent penance services around the Diocese of Knoxville: Chattanooga Deanery 7 p.m. EST, unless noted. Dec. 9—St. Bridget, Dayton, 6:30 p.m.; Dec. 10—St. Catherine Labouré, Copperhill, 6 p.m.; St. Stephen, Chattanooga; Dec. 14—St. Jude,

Chattanooga; Dec. 15—St. Augustine, Signal Mountain; Dec. 17— St. Thérèse of Lisieux, Cleveland. Cumberland Mountain Deanery 7 p.m. EST, unless noted. Dec. 8— Christ the King, Tazewell; Dec. 10—St. John Neumann, Farragut; Dec. 14—All Saints, Knoxville; Dec. 16—St. Francis of Assisi, Fairfield Glade, 6 p.m. CST; Dec.

17—Our Lady of Perpetual Help, LaFollette. Five Rivers Deanery 7 p.m., unless noted. Dec. 9—St. Henry, Rogersville, 6 p.m.; St. Elizabeth, Elizabethton; Dec. 10— St. Patrick, Morristown; St. Michael the Archangel, Erwin; Dec. 14—Notre Dame, Greeneville; Dec. 15—St. Dominic, Kingsport;

Dec. 17—St. Mary, Johnson City. Smoky Mountain Deanery 7 p.m. Dec. 9—Holy Family, Seymour; Dec. 10—Sacred Heart Cathedral, Knoxville; Dec. 14—Holy Ghost, Knoxville, and Immaculate Conception, Knoxville, at Holy Ghost; Dec. 15—St. Mary, Gatlinburg; Dec. 16—St. Joseph the Worker, Madisonville. ■

Marriage continued from page 37

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Full name of each spouse; Wedding date; Mailing address; Phone number; E-mail address. Through this diocesan effort to identify the longest-married couple in each parish we also will identify the longest-married couple in our diocese each year. The diocesan couple who holds the record for being married the longest will receive special recognition by Bishop Stika. We then will submit

their names and information to the WWME annual project to identify and celebrate the longest-married couple in each state and in our country. One of our own couples hopefully will be the state honoree. All state honorees will receive congratulatory letters from the leadership of Marriage Encounter in addition to recognition in the Federal Congressional Record and letters from the governor and local legislators. Let’s celebrate our marital success

stories! These wonderful couples have had such a positive impact on the world around them, one that will live on in the hearts and minds of those who were lucky enough to know them. I look forward to reading and sharing your stories of a successful marriage that has impacted you and the community around you. Get writing! ■

Project” established in 2010, Bishop Stika and the Office of Marriage Preparation and Enrichment will send each honoree couple a diocesan award to recognize their achievement. It is our hope that each parish will acknowledge their longestmarried couple on the annual World Marriage Day, which falls on Sunday, Feb. 14. Please submit your nominees to your parish secretary by Dec. 14. We will need the following information: The East Tennessee Catholic

The Diocese of Knoxville Living our Roman Catholic faith in East Tennessee

Mrs. Christiana is coordinator of the diocesan Marriage Preparation and Enrichment Office. December 6, 2015 39

World Day of Migrants and Refugees to be observed Jan. 17 By Byron Macias, CMF Nuestra Parroquia

orld Day of Migrants and Refugees will be observed on Jan. 17, and far from being a mere remembrance, it is a call to respond with the Gospel of Mercy. Immigration has always been part of human history. Pope Francis affirms that “In our time, migration is growing worldwide. Refugees and people fleeing from their homes challenge individuals and communities and their traditional ways of life; at times they upset the cultural and social horizons which they encounter. ... In the light of these facts, I have chosen as the theme of the 2016 World Day of Migrants and Refugees: Migrants and Refugees Challenge Us. The Response of the Gospel of Mercy.” The Gospel of Mercy comes to res-

cue people for whom it is not easy to abandon their motherland, but because of many sociopolitical factors, among other factors, they are pushed against the wall and forced to find other alternatives in order to subsist. The Holy Father says that “Migrants are our brothers and sisters in search for a better life, far away from poverty, hunger, exploitation and the unjust distribution of the planet’s resources which are meant to be equitably shared by all.” Lately, the answer to immigration seems to counteract the Gospel of Mercy. We all can remember that picture of the Syrian infant lying dead on the seashore, in Turkey. We remember the Hungarian reporter hitting and pushing immigrants of all ages. We all are afraid of the unknown and Pope Francis knows it well: “The presence of migrants and refugees seriously challenges the

various societies which accept them. … How can we ensure that integration will become mutual enrichment, open up positive perspective to communities, and prevent the danger of discrimination, racism, extreme nationalism or xenophobia?” Despite our limitations and fears, there is a light in each of us that always shines bright and is like a compass that leads us to what is true, beautiful, and meaningful; that light is our baptismal call to be priests, kings, and above all, prophets. As prophets, Pope Francis says, we stand “at the side of all who work to defend each person’s right to live with dignity, first and foremost by exercising the right not to emigrate and to contribute to the development of one’s country of origin. This process should include, from the outset, the need to assist the countries which migrants and refugees leave.”

This is precisely what the Gospel of Mercy is about: awareness. Father Tony Diaz, CMF, said during a parish leadership class at San Gabriel Mission in California that we cannot ignore the people we get to know. When we realize that each of us is a human being, it is there that we begin to try to understand and help those who are different from us. When we learn to see beyond our differences, race, religion, social status, etc., that’s when we meet face to face with a person like us, whose only evil is to be poor and oppressed. That is the exact point when the Gospel of mercy flows like a river and irrigates almost arid fields of hope and love; mercy is action; mercy is justice; mercy is equality, mercy is a mess, because it does not remain within the four walls of the temple but breaks between social structures to promote peace and justice for all. ■

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40 December 6, 2015

Emma F. CNS Cancer

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