November 8 East Tennessee Catholic by Diocese of Knoxville

CNS PHOTO/GREGORY A. SHEMITZ

Praying for the dead A statue of an angel overlooks a grave at the Sisters of St. Joseph cemetery in Brentwood, N.Y., on Oct. 20. All Souls’ Day, the commemoration of all the faithful departed, was Nov. 2, and Catholics traditionally remember and pray for the dead throughout the month.

THE EAST TENNESSEE

Volume 19 • Number 5 • November 8, 2009

The

N E W S PA P E R

of the D I O C E S E of K N O X V I L L E www.d ioces eof kn ox ville.or g

WASHINGTON (CNS)—The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has sent bulletin inserts to almost 19,000 parishes across the country in an effort to urge Catholics to prevent health-care reform from being derailed by support for abortion funding. “Health-care reform should be about saving lives, not destroying them,” the insert states. It urges readers to contact Senate leaders, asking them to support efforts to “incorporate longstanding policies against abortion funding and in favor of conscience rights” in health-reform legislation. “If these serious concerns are not addressed, the final bill should be opposed,” it adds. The insert highlights an amendment sponsored by Rep. Bart Stupak, D-Mich., which “addresses essential pro-life concerns on abortion funding and conscience rights.” “Help ensure that the rule for the bill allows a vote on the amendment,” the insert states. “If these serious concerns are not addressed, the fiAction continued on page 2

Please pray for our priests

‘Thank you, Sister Albertine’ Priests, sisters, and laypeople fill the cathedral to honor the diocese’s director of Evangelization. By Dan McWilliams ister Albertine Paulus has always been up to the challenge when it comes to fulfilling an assignment, but at the Mass on Oct. 18 celebrating her decades of service she nearly faltered when she was asked to deliver a few closing remarks. As the retiring Sister of Mercy looked out at the assembly in Sacred Heart Cathedral, the emotion of the moment hit her. Filling the pews were many of her fellow Mercy Sisters from Knoxville and Nashville, brothers Jim and T. J., more than a dozen priests and deacons, current and former Chancery staffers who served alongside her during her 18 years as diocesan director of Evangelization, former students from her long teaching career, Mercy Health Partners officials from St. Mary’s Medical Center, and many more friends. “I saw so many people come up to

MARY C. WEAVER

Bishops urge faithful to act now for moral health-care reform

The congregation claps for Sister Albertine Paulus, RSM, during an Oct. 18 Mass at Sacred Heart Cathedral to celebrate her service to the diocese. At Sister Albertine’s left is sister-in-law Sue Paulus, the wife of Sister Albertine’s brother T. J. The retired Sister of Mercy was also joined by brother Jim and his wife, Sue.

APPLAUSE FOR ALBERTINE

Communion: people I taught, people I’ve worked with, even sisters who came from Nashville, people who have been on pilgrimage with me— whom I’ve been on pilgrimage with, really—people from so

many years,” said Sister Albertine. She choked up as she recalled all of those faces. “That’s the first time I lost it, but I won’t stay lost,” she said. Sister Albertine,

one of the original Chancery staffers when the Diocese of Knoxville was created in 1988, retired Oct. 19 (see Oct. 11 ETC). Her service to the church in East Tennessee included decades of elementary

and high school teaching before the establishment of the diocese, along with roles as director of Renew, the Landings program for Catholics wishing to return to the church, the RCIA Sister continued on page 6

Bishop Stika dedicates new facility at Holy Family The bishop blesses a family-life center and also tells Seymour parishioners that parochial administrator Father Ragan Schriver will become their pastor. BY MARY C. WEAVER

But the bishop had a surprise in store for members of the Seymour church. During the evening celebration, he announced that their parochial administrator, Father Ragan Schriver, was about to become their pastor.

Dear Lord: We pray that the Blessed Mother will wrap her mantle around your priests and through her intercession strengthen them for their ministry. We pray that Mary will guide your priests to follow her own words, “Do whatever he tells you” (John 2:5). May your priests have the heart of St. Joseph, Mary’s most chaste spouse. May the Blessed Mother’s own pierced heart inspire them to embrace all who suffer at the foot of the cross. May your priests be holy and filled with the fire of your love, seeking nothing but your greater glory and the salvation of souls. Amen. St. John Vianney, pray for us. ■

undreds of Holy Family parishioners gathered in their brandnew family-life center on Oct. 18, welcoming Bishop Richard F. Stika, who had come to dedicate the facility.

Download prayers and a rosary booklet: bit.ly/priestprayers.

IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER Bishop Richard F. Stika blesses members of Holy Family Parish during the Oct. 18 dedication of the Seymour community’s new family-life center. Behind the bishop is song leader Karen Burry, the wife of Holy Family’s Deacon Dean Burry.

MARY C. WEAVER

Explaining that Father Thomas O’Connell—who had served as Holy Family’s pastor since summer 1997— was retiring for health reasons, the bishop said, “I had to ponder who would be a good new pastor. I figure while he’s already here, why not make Father Ragan pastor?” Father Schriver is also executive director of Catholic Charities of East Tennessee Inc. The bishop’s decision was obviously popular with the assembly, who rose to their feet and applauded. “At some point I’ll come back to officially install [Father Schriver] as pastor during Mass, but effective tomorrow, he has to figure out how to pay for all this,” the bishop said. Ground was broken for the 7,000square-foot facility in August 2008. The building will be used for youth and family activities and will provide space for meetings, instruction, and the parish office. Costing about $965,000, the structure was designed by Thom Haeuptle of Johnson Architecture in Knoxville. The building contractor was Evans Contracting Co. Inc., also of Knoxville. Parishioner Dr. Mica Bentley served as chair of the building committee. Before the dedication ceremony, Father Schriver said he was honored to be part of the event. Holy Family continued on page 8

Ministries Day set for Jan. 9 inistries Day will be held Saturday, Jan. 9, at Sacred Heart Cathedral School in Knoxville, with more than 20 sessions to choose from. The day begins at 8 a.m., with an opportunity for participants to visit vendors and publishers and enjoy coffee and doughnuts—or attend an optional Mass at the cathedral—and ends at 3 p.m., with a closing prayer and the awarding of door prizes. Titled “Sharing Gifts in Faith,” the event is open to all adults in the diocese and is especially tailored to the needs of parents, student youth leaders, youth ministers, RCIA teams, adult educators, liturgy and ministry teams, directors of religious education, and catechists. Attendees may select two morning and two afternoon sessions from among more than 20 offerings. Lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m., with a presentation by Catholic Mutual Insurance Group. Cost of the day is $15 (including a box lunch) for those who register by Nov. 30; cost is $20 afterward. Those who register after Dec. 30 will not receive lunch. Course selections will cover topics such as Scripture for young people; fostering priestly vocations; helping children with special needs; insurance, legalities, safety, and paperwork for parishes; the theology of the body; beginningand end-of-life issues; apologetics; vacation Bible school on a shoestring; and Eastern Catholic spirituality. For more information, visit bit.ly/2t2Iii—from which users can download a registration form, schedule, and complete course details—or contact directors of religious education Kathy DeAngelis of St. Patrick Parish in Morristown at 423-586-4091, 277-6296, or krdeangelis@yahoo.com or Susan Collins of Notre Dame in Greeneville at 639-9382, 329-9173, or scollins51@hotmail.com. ■

Want to try online delivery? he East Tennessee Catholic is now offering online delivery for those who would prefer to read a digital copy and to discontinue the print edition. If you would rather read the ETC online, visit snipr.com/onlineETC to sign up. 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 mary@dioceseof knoxville.org. ■

Faith-formation classes continue he 2009 series of adult faith-formation classes began in February, with additional classes scheduled throughout the year and in locations around the diocese. The adult faith-formation program is one of the educational initiatives funded through the Growing in Faith Together capital-stewardship campaign. Classes are offered at no charge to adults in the diocese. All sessions begin at 7 p.m. and end at 9.

The Sacraments, taught by Amy Roberts. Explores the foundations of what we celebrate as Catholics. The class will examine how we encounter the living Christ through each of the church’s seven sacraments. ■ Tuesday, Nov. 10, St. Dominic Church, Kingsport What We Believe, taught by Deacon David Lucheon. Explores the foundations of what we profess as Catholics. The class will examine the principal truths of the faith as expressed in the creeds of the church. ■ Tuesday, Nov. 17, Sacred Heart Cathedral Catechetical formation sessions, presented in collaboration with Aquinas College in Nashville, will also be held this fall for catechists, teachers in Catholic schools, ministry leaders, and other interested adults. Each session takes place on a Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and includes hourlong modules on the Creed, the sacraments, morality, prayer, and methods. Choose one session: ■ Nov. 7, St. Elizabeth Church, Elizabethton ■ Nov. 14, St. Jude Church, Chattanooga.

living the

READINGS

BY FATHER JOSEPH BRANDO

Once and for all We receive infinite grace ‘when we give as God gives.’

“Christ died once to take away the sins of many.” This principle, found in today’s second reading from the Letter to the Hebrews, is a source of joy for all Christians. Something was done for us that none of us could possibly do for ourselves. We humans crave eternal happiness. Some say this desire is so impossible that it is the source of much of the pain humanity experiences. They urge us to live only for this world. Jesus’ invitation to us all to enter the kingdom of God flies in the face of that advice.

That earthly wisdom is shortsighted. It rightly sees the human condition as finite and our attempt to get ourselves into eternal life as futile. But it is blind to God’s infinite love for us. This divine love crosses into the finite and transforms us into children of God. The problem then becomes how to accept this unconditional gift of God and receive life eternal. The answer comes by way of two widows. One is the woman in the first reading whom the prophet Elijah confronts with a problem. It turns out to be one form of the ultimate problem of life on earth. Elijah asks her to give him everything she thinks she has to eat for the rest of her life. He wants her to feed him

Once and forever The redeeming love of God has no end.

have now W ecome to that wonderful time when one liturgical year ends and the new one begins. The church melds them together over the next few weeks with one crucial theme: the end of the world. If matter always existed and will never cease to exist, as the ancient Greeks believed and as many present-day scientists believe, humans would forever contin-

ue to be slaves to the laws of nature. Happily, God existed before the universe. He created it. And he created us in his image so we may ultimately live free with him in heaven. Today’s readings present this good news from three perspectives. Jesus uses nature. The Letter to the Hebrews uses religious rites. The reading from Daniel uses a theology of history. All show us

with it. At the same time he makes her a promise. The food she has will last until the rains come and the drought is over. She accepts and is saved from the tragedy of starvation by giving up her food. The other widow comes to us in the Gospel. Mark makes this story the central event of Jesus’ final days before the Last Supper. The poor widow had only two coins left. She recognized that she had a choice. She was free to use the coins either to stretch her life out for a few more miserable days before starving or to offer them gloriously to God as the summation of her life. She chose the latter. So did Jesus. And so should we. Infinite grace is bestowed on us when we give as God gives—just once, but for all. ■ Nov. 8, 32nd Sunday in ordinary time 1 Kings 17:10-16 Psalm 146:7-10 Hebrews 9:24-28 Mark 12:38-44

that the material world will end and God will remain the only entity to whom we can relate. Jesus’ teaching begins with the premise that all lights eventually go out. Next he applies this observation to the heavenly bodies. He ends with a revelation. When things become darkest, we can most clearly see the creator. Another reality exists beyond the lights of this universe. When those lights go out, we will see the Son of Man and his angels gathering the elect. If that’s

the case, we should start looking for him right now. The writer of the Letter to the Hebrews presumes his readers have many times seen Jewish priests offer sacrifices for sins. If praying for forgiveness is endless, sin will never be totally washed away. That is contrary to what we know about our loving God. Sin must Readings continued on page 8

Nov. 15, 33rd Sunday in ordinary time Daniel 12:1-3 Psalm 16:5, 8-11 Hebrews 10:11-14, 18 Mark 13:24-32

W E E KDAY RE ADINGS Monday, Nov. 9: Feast, the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome, Ezekiel 47:1-2, 8-9, 12; Psalm 46:23, 5-6, 8-9; 1 Corinthians 3:9-11, 1617; John 2:13-22 Tuesday, Nov. 10: Memorial, Leo the Great, pope, doctor of the church, Wisdom 2:23–3:9; Psalm 34:2-3, 1619; Luke 17:7-10 Wednesday, Nov. 11: Memorial, Martin of Tours, bishop, Wisdom 6:111; Psalm 82:3-4, 6-7; Luke 17:1119 Thursday, Nov. 12: Memorial, Josaphat, bishop, martyr, Wisdom 7:22–

8:1; Psalm 119:89-91, 130, 135, 175; Luke 17:20-25 Friday, Nov. 13: Memorial, Frances Xavier Cabrini, virgin, Wisdom 13:1-9; Psalm 19:2-5; Luke 17:26-37 Saturday, Nov. 14: Wisdom 18:1416 and 19:6-9; Psalm 105:2-3, 3637, 42-43; Luke 18:1-8 Monday, Nov. 16: 1 Maccabees 1:10-15, 41-43, 54-57, 62-63; Psalm 119:53, 61, 134, 150, 155, 158; Luke 18:35-43 Tuesday, Nov. 17: Memorial, Elizabeth of Hungary, religious, 2 Maccabees 6:18-31; Psalm 3:2-7; Luke

19:1-10 Wednesday, Nov. 18: 2 Maccabees 7:1, 20-31; Psalm 17:1, 5-6, 8, 15; Luke 19:11-28 Thursday, Nov. 19: 1 Maccabees 2:15-29; Psalm 50:1-2, 5-6, 14-15; Luke 19:41-44 Friday, Nov. 20: 1 Maccabees 4:3637, 52-59; 1 Chronicles 29:10-12; Luke 19:45-48 Saturday, Nov. 21: Memorial, the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 1 Maccabees 6:1-13; Psalm 9:2-4, 6, 16, 19; Luke 20:27-40 ■

Care for America Act. The inserts—expected to be placed in parish bulletins in early November—contain information on how Catholics can take specific action by writing, calling, faxing, or e-mailing members of Congress to let them know health-care reform must explicitly ban abortion coverage. The House measure combines bills passed by three committees in July into one piece of legislation that members were to begin debating on

the House floor in early November. Floor action on the U.S. Senate bill had not yet been announced. The U.S. bishops have criticized the Senate measure for not explicitly barring funding of abortion coverage. The House bill also does not resolve the issue of abortion coverage. “The debate and decisions on health-care reform are reaching decisive moments. We write . . . to ask for your active

Action continued from page 1

nal bill should be opposed.” The insert also directs Catholics to the website www.usccb.org/healthcare. In addition, parishes were receiving suggested pulpit announcements and petitions in support of this effort. Bulletin inserts were distributed to dioceses Oct. 29, the day House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and other House leaders unveiled an $894 billion health-care-reform bill called the Affordable Health

Bishop Richard F. Stika Publisher Mary C. Weaver Editor Dan McWilliams Assistant editor

THE EAST TENNESSEE

To register, visit dioceseofknoxville.org, click Resources/ETC, then click Event registration in the left frame. For further details, contact Father Rich Armstrong at rarmstrong@dioceseofknoxville.org or 865-584-3307. ■ 805 Northshore Drive S.W.

Action continued on page 3

Margaret Hunt Administrative assistant Toni Pacitti Intern

Knoxville, TN 37919-7551

The East Tennessee Catholic (USPS 007211) is published twice monthly by the Catholic Diocese of Knoxville, 805 Northshore Drive S.W., Knoxville, TN 37919-7551. Periodicals-class postage paid at Knoxville, Tenn. Printed on recycled paper by the Knoxville News Sentinel Postmaster: Send address changes to The East Tennessee Catholic, P.O. Box 11127, Knoxville, TN 37939-1127 How to reach us:

Phone: 865-584-3307 • fax: 865-584-8124 • e-mail: webmaster@dioceseofknoxville.org • web: dioceseofknoxville.org The East Tennessee Catholic is mailed to all registered Catholic families in East Tennessee. Subscription rate for others is $15 a year in the United States. Make checks payable to the Diocese of Knoxville. 2

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NOVEMBER 8, 2009

www.dioceseofk noxville.org

THE E A S T TE NNE S SE E CATHOL I C

he dwells

AMONG US

BY BISHOP RICHARD F. STIKA

Pray for the departed November reminds us of the reality of death, before the arrival of Advent.

Time sure flies, as the expression reminds us. As I write this, the month of October is coming to a close, and November is knocking at the door. In my younger days in St. Louis, the end of October always seemed to be damp and dreary. Now, this might just be a distortion of reality or a sign that I have developed a selective memory, as the cool, damp weather made for a good celebration of Halloween. In my youth Halloween was fun. It was not a time to worry about the dangers that now seem to surround this timehonored celebration. It was about often less-than-funny jokes that would be told in order to earn a bit of candy and share a few laughs. It also was a reminder that Thanksgiving was not too far away, and soon it would be time for Christmas. In many ways, that seems to be a distant memory. No more Boris Karloff and Bela Lugosi. No more spooky movies at the parish gym. No more candy and costumes that often needed an explanation. Time sure does fly by. The experience is surely a dose of reality. And so is the celebration of All Saints and All Souls. Both have to do with reality. Both remind us of the potential of

God’s grace, which offers a sense of belonging and the gift of life eternal. These celebrations are not about makebelieve or a night of jokes, parties, and candy. They are about life itself. The month of November is a reminder of the reality of death. It is about the closing of the church year with the great celebration of Christ the King, which we will celebrate on Nov. 22. It is about preparing for the season of Advent and the coming of the Christ at Christmas. Again, it is about our relationships with one another but in particular our relationship with God. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord! How often do these words remind me to remember the many who have touched my life: My parents, Frank and Helen, who gave me life. My aunts and uncles, cousins and friends of days past who have been so much a part of my formation as a man, a priest, and now a bishop. Cardinal John Carberry, who ordained me a deacon and Archbishop John May, who by the laying on of hands shared with me the joy of the priesthood. The many parishioners who throughout the years taught me about the faith and how daily to live the challenge of Jesus to love God and my neighbor. The list goes on and on. In my chapel at my residence, contained in a small book, are the names of so many that I strive daily to

pray for, living and deceased. It is good to remember but even more important to pray. I hope you too pray daily for those who have gone before us “marked with the sign of faith.” May they be at peace. May we be remembered by those who follow us after our moment of judgment. I hope all is well with you and that you are enjoying a beautiful autumn. The beauty of East Tennessee again reminds me of how blessed I am to be in your midst! ■ BISHOP STIKA’ S SCHE DUL E These are some of Bishop Stika’s appointments: Nov. 8: 9 a.m., installation of Father Patrick Resen as pastor, St. Catherine Labouré Church, Copperhill; 5:30 p.m., Catholic Foundation of East Tennessee annual dinner, Fox Den Country Club, Farragut Nov. 9: 5 p.m., Mass and dinner with Sisters of Mercy, St. Mary’s Convent Nov. 11: 6 p.m., dinner and meeting with Men at Sacred Heart, Knoxville Nov. 12: 11:30 a.m., Mass, followed by talk to the Serra Club of Knoxville, Sacred Heart Cathedral Nov. 13: 5 p.m., evening prayer and holy hour with Deacon Christopher Riehl, St. Albert the Great Church, Knoxville Nov. 14: 10 a.m., priestly ordination of Deacon Christopher Riehl, Sacred Heart Cathedral Nov. 15-20: U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops meeting, Baltimore Nov. 21: 9:30 a.m., Mass, followed by reception of promises from Missionaries of the Gospel of Life, Sacred Heart Cathedral Nov. 21-22: weekend Masses at St. Mary Church, Johnson City Nov. 22: 6 p.m., consecration of altar, Catholic Center, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City Nov. 23: 4:30 p.m., basketball game, Notre Dame High School, Chattanooga ■

Action continued from page 2

and personal leadership to ensure that needed health-care reform protects the life, dignity, and health care of all,” said the president of the USCCB and the chairmen of three bishops’ committees in an Oct. 28 letter to their fellow bishops across the country. The letter accompanied the bulletin inserts urging the bishops to promote the campaign in their dioceses. It was signed by Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago, president; Cardinal Justin Rigali of Philadelphia, chairman of the Committee on Pro-life Activities; Bishop John C. Wester of Salt Lake City, chairman of the Committee on Migration; and Bishop William F. Murphy of Rockville Centre, N.Y., chairman of the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development. They thanked all bishops for their work so far to make Congress understand the bishops’ “principles and priorities” for health-care reform the Catholic Church has long supported. “We now ask you to redouble your efforts to ensure that we speak clearly, effectively, and together for health-care reform that protects life and conscience and reaches out to the vulnerable and marginalized who need life-affirming health care the most,” they wrote. “The bishops want healthcare reform, but they recoil at any expansion of abortion,” said Helen Osman, USCCB communications secretary, who helped organize the campaign. “Most Americans don’t want to pay for other people’s abortions via health care. “This impasse on the road to the reform of health care can be broken if Congress writes in language that assures that the Hyde amendment continues to guide U.S. federal spending policy,” she said. The Hyde amendment bars THE E A S T TE NNE S S E E CATHOLIC

funding of abortion in the spending bills for the departments of Labor and Health and Human Services and in military hospitals, federal employees’ health benefits, foreign assistance, and other circumstances. A USCCB release on the bulletin-insert campaign said that the Catholic bishops have a long history of support for health-care reform “based on its teaching that health care is essential for human life and dignity and on its experience providing health care and assisting those without coverage.”

Actions East Tennessee Catholics can take On Oct. 30 Paul Simoneau, director of the diocesan Justice and Peace Office, e-mailed instructions for area Catholics who wish to communicate their views with their senators and representatives. They are as follows: ■ e-mail Congress via usccb. org/action or your representative via writerep.house.gov/ writerep/welcome.shtml ■ call Senator Alexander at 202-224-4944 or e-mail via alexander.senate.gov/public ■ call Senator Corker at 202224-3344 or e-mail via corker.senate.gov/public ■ call Congressman Phil Roe (1st District) at 202-225-6356, 423-247-8161, or 423-2541400 ■ call Congressman John Duncan (2nd District) at 202-2255435 or 865-523-3772 ■ call Congressman Zach Wamp (3rd District) at 202-2253271 or 423-756-2342 ■ call Congressman Lincoln Davis (4th District) at 202-2256831 or 931-879-2361 ■ call the U.S. Capitol switchboard at 202-224-3121 or call members’ local offices ■ find members’ contact information at www.house.gov and www.senate.gov.

The following message may be sent to Sens. Alexander and Corker: “During floor debate on the health-care-reform bill, please support an amendment to incorporate longstanding policies against abortion funding and in favor of conscience rights. If these serious concerns are not addressed, the final bill should be opposed.” The following message may be sent to Congressmen Roe, Duncan, Wamp, and Davis: “Please support the Stupak Amendment, which addresses essential pro-life concerns on abortion funding and conscience rights in the healthcare-reform bill. Help ensure that the Rule for the bill allows a vote on this amendment. If these serious concerns are not addressed, the final bill should be opposed.” Mr. Simoneau’s e-mail included the bishops’ urgent request for prayer, summed up by Tom Grenchik, executive director of the bishops’ Secretariat of ProLife Activities. “Our nation is at a crossroads,” Mr. Grenchik wrote. “Policies adopted in health-care reform will have an impact for good or ill for years to come. And so our bishops have one more very important request of each of us. They want us to pray. “Pray that Congress will take action and ensure that needed health-care reform truly protects the life, dignity, and health of all. Pray that each of us will raise our voices to preserve our freedom of conscience and protect the most vulnerable, especially unborn children. “Through our prayers and actions, we can help make sure that health-care reform will be about saving lives, not destroying them,” he said. ■ Copyright 2009 Catholic News Service/U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. Mary C. Weaver contributed to this story.

www.dioceseofk noxville.org

papal

HONOR

Pope Benedict XVI names Father Al Humbrecht Prelate of Honor n Nov. 3 Bishop Richard F. Stika announced that Pope Benedict XVI had conferred the title Prelate of Honor to His Holiness upon Father Al Humbrecht. Monsignor Humbrecht, the pastor of Sacred Heart Cathedral, has been a priest for more than 37 years and Monsignor Al Humbrecht has twice served the diocese as administrator in the absence of a bishop. An article on Monsignor Humbrecht will appear in the next edition of the ETC. ■

Director of youth ministry hired he Diocese of Knoxville has hired Albert Forsythe as the director of the newly created Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, beginning on Jan. 4. Mr. Forsythe has 21 years’ experience in youth ministry and is the diocesan director of Youth and Young Adult Services for the Archdiocese of Newark, N.J., with a Catholic population of 1.3 million. He has also served as part-time youth minister for St. Michael Parish in Cranford, N.J. Mr. Forsythe chaired the National Catholic Youth Conference held in Philadelphia in 1993 and has been a member of the finance committee of the National Federation of Catholic Youth Ministry. ■

Deacon Christopher Riehl to be ordained a priest Nov. 14 ishop Richard F. Stika will ordain Deacon Christopher Riehl to the priesthood during a Mass at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, at Sacred Heart Cathedral. Everyone is welcome to attend the Mass. ■

Anglicans continued from page 10

number of Anglicans seeking full communion, Cardinal Levada said. The head of each ordinariate will be a former Anglican clergyman, who will not necessarily be ordained a Catholic bishop. New priests for the ordinariates will study in seminaries with other Catholic seminarians, but an ordinariate can “establish a house of formation to address the particular needs of formation in the Anglican patrimony,” Cardinal Levada said. In general, married Anglican priests and bishops who become Catholic will be ordained Catholic priests, as will married Anglican seminarians, he said. But an unmarried man ordained a Catholic priest will not be permitted to marry, and the pope’s apostolic constitution will state a clear preference for a celibate clergy, Archbishop Di Noia said. Cardinal Levada told reporters that he realizes “for some people it seems to be a problem” that the Vatican is allowing married former Anglicans to be ordained Catholic priests but will not allow Catholic priests who have left to marry to return to ministry. “They are two different circumstances,” the cardinal said. Respecting “the authenticity of the call to service” of Anglican clergy who were married when they came to the decision to become Catholic is different from the case of “a Catholic who knowingly commits to a celibate priesthood and then decides for different reasons to leave the priesthood for married life.” “I do not think it is an insurmountable problem,” Cardinal Levada said, adding that the church needs to educate Catholics that the dispensation for former Anglican clergy is an exception and that the church continues to uphold the virtue of celibacy. ■ Copyright 2009 Catholic News Service/U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops

Diocese of Knoxville procedure for reporting sexual abuse Anyone who has actual knowledge of or who has reasonable cause to suspect an incident of sexual abuse should report such information to the appropriate civil authorities first, then to the bishop’s office, 865-584-3307, or the diocesan victims’ assistance coordinator, Marla Lenihan, 865-482-1388.

NOVEMBER 8, 2009

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BY TONI PACITTI

■ A first Friday fish fry is set for 6 to

7:30 p.m. Nov. 6 in the parish life center. Cost is $6. Proceeds benefit the Wheelchair Foundation. A Family Bingo Night will take place at the same time in the center, with proceeds going toward the Spanish enrichment program. ■ Families with seventh- and eighthgraders are invited to participate in the Family Honor Program on Jan. 29 and 30. The program provides opportunities to communicate effectively on life values, with “a focus on the truth and goodness of human sexuality and the virtue of chastity.” Call Jan O’Boyle at 706-226-9110 or Mary Pat Haywood at 278-6391. Space is limited to 40 families.

Blessed Sacrament, Harriman ■ Help is needed with applications for

Christmas baskets. Call Mary Simmons at 865-882-5467 or the church office at 882-9838. ■ The next collection for the Knights of Columbus Tootsie Roll Drive for the mentally challenged will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, at the intersections of highways 58 and 70 (Race and Kentucky streets) in Kingston and Highway 27 and Ruritan Road in Harriman. Call Bob Capell at 354-8009 for details. ■ Baptism: Kayla Rose, daughter of Kent and Kathleen Patterson

Christ the King, Tazewell ■ A Halloween-themed potluck din-

ner was served Oct. 25.

St. Augustine, Signal Mountain

OLPH, LaFollette

■ The annual parish soup supper to

■ Parishioners took part in a Bingo for

support the Chattanooga Community Kitchen will be served at 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 8. Bring bread or a pot of soup.

Breast Cancer event Oct. 24 at Caryville Elementary School. Proceeds benefited the Campbell County Cancer Association and the county Relay for Life program.

St. Catherine Labouré, Copperhill ■ The Knights of Columbus are col-

lecting health-care items for military personnel serving in the 48th Infantry Brigade of the Georgia National Guard serving in Afghanistan. Place items in containers located in the parish hall. ■ The Divine Mercy society is collecting nonperishable food for the community. Bring items to the parish hall. ■ Bishop Richard F. Stika, in his first visit to the parish, will install Father Patrick Resen as pastor Sunday, Nov. 8. A brunch will be held afterward. ■ Parish youth will prepare and serve breakfast Sunday, Nov. 22.

St. Jude, Chattanooga ■ Boy Scout Troop 172 is selling red,

white, and marble poinsettias. Scouts will take orders after Masses on the weekends of Nov. 21 and 22 and Nov. 28 and 29. Pickup date is Sunday, Dec. 6, at Siener Hall. Cost is $10 per plant. Call Joyce Clark at 423-877-0981 or Greg Kniedler at 842-3757. ■ The Haiti Mission Team and Knights of Columbus Council 610 will sponsor the ninth annual Spaghetti Dinner for Haiti after the 5:30 p.m. Mass on Saturday, Nov. 7, in Siener Hall. All proceeds will benefit St. Jude’s sister parish in Gros-Morne, Haiti. Cost is $5 per person (free for children under 3).

St. Mary, Athens ■ Parishioners are invited to a painting/work party at 10 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 21 and 22, at the education building. Call Holly at 423745-4277. ■ Parish youth are collecting canned goods and other nonperishable food items for the needy. Bring contributions to church after Masses, meetings, CCD, or other gatherings.

St. Stephen, Chattanooga ■ Knights of Columbus Council 6099

sponsored its annual Halloween party Oct. 31. Cumberland Mountain Deanery

All Saints, Knoxville ■ The eighth annual “Harvest of Blessings” will feature decorated tables representing a variety of organizations after all Masses the weekend of Nov. 21 and 22. Gifts purchased at each table will benefit that group. The Paraclete bookstore and numerous parish organizations will have tables. ■ The social-action committee will again provide Thanksgiving meals to some families assisted by Catholic Charities and possibly Knox Area Rescue Ministries (KARM). Committee members also plan to distribute food baskets at KARM from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 22. To help, contact Mike Martin at 694-0629 or mikemartin1 @knology.net. ■ The Council of Catholic Women will sponsor “Advent by Candlelight” at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 1, in the parish hall. Women are encouraged to host a table by inviting five to six friends to decorate the table and bake or buy a dessert. Coffee will be provided. The featured speaker will be Dr. Ruth Queen Smith, pastoral associate with John XXIII Parish in Knoxville. To host a table or learn more, call Catherine McHugh at 694-4971 or Christy Robson at 470-4936. RSVP by Wednesday, Nov. 18.

■

NOVEMBER 8, 2009

COURTESY OF SARAH PETTY

OLPH, Chattanooga

St. Francis of Assisi, Fairfield Glade ■ Coffee and doughnuts will be

served after 10 a.m. Sunday Masses. Various parish committees are taking turns hosting. ■ The parish book club will meet at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18, in the parish hall conference room. The book to be discussed is The Mercy Seller (St. Martin’s Griffin, 2008) by Brenda Rickman Vantrease. ■ Parishioners donated $7,801 in support of Friends of Bijnor in India, following a recent visit by Bishop Gratian Mudadan, CMI, of Bijnor. ■ The parish Thanksgiving dinner will be served at 1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 26, in Sheehan Hall. Bring a covered dish. Bingo (played for fun) will follow the dinner. Call Mary Lou Wiskow at 931456-8486, Mary Hall at 707-8314, or Kathy Randall at 484-7948. ■ Anniversaries: Louis and Julia Larker (67), Steve and MaryLou Knowles (62), Gene and Ev Belvo (58), Lyle and Kathryn Flahaven (56), Ron and Terry Gleusner (53), Jerry and Beverly Pitts (50), Frank and Nancy Drabek (45), Robert and Jean Citkovic (40), Don and Jane Mays (10)

Lifetime-achievement honor for Knoxville Knight Howard Petty, a parishioner of Sacred Heart Cathedral, recently received a lifetimeachievement award from the state council of the Knights of Columbus for his service to the organization for the past 46 years. Presenting the award is Russ Carvin, Grand Knight of Council 5207 in West Knoxville.

Surprise 50th-anniversary party honors Glade couple homas and Pauline Higgins of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Fairfield Glade celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Sept. 12. They were married at St. Teresa of Avila Church in South Ozone Park, N.Y., with Father James J. Tuohy officiating. The Higginses have five children, Kathleen Waisane and Laura Ford, both of Crossville; Thomas Higgins II of Ellicott City, Md.; Paul Hig-

Thomas and Pauline Higgins

gins of Sacramento, Calif.; and James Higgins of Dallas, Ga.; and 10 grandchildren. Mr. Higgins retired from the Long Island

Railroad in New York, and Mrs. Higgins is a retired liaison officer for the town of Huntington, N.Y. They moved to Fairfield Glade in 2002. Their family held a surprise anniversary party for them Aug. 29 at Legends Country Club in the Glade and presented them with a memory album, which included stories of their life written by their grandchildren and other family members. ■

St. John Neumann, Farragut

COURTESY OF IRV HARMON

Chattanooga Deanery

■ Knights of Columbus Council 8781

will host information sessions after the 6 p.m. Mass on third Sundays at the cafeteria entrance to the school. Call Richard Hughes at 865-966-9893, Jim Gold at 671-3160, Mike Gates at 986-7526, or Bill Wicke at 690-9404.

St. Mary, Oak Ridge

Spaghetti dinner draws big crowd for St. Alphonsus St. Alphonsus Parish in Crossville drew a large crowd for its annual spaghetti dinner Sept. 25. Proceeds benefited St. Alphonsus Community Services and the parish building fund.

■ Parish youth in grades six through

12 will meet in the youth building to sew creative projects as Christmas gifts for mothers and grandmothers from 1 to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, and 2 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays, Nov. 18 and Dec. 2. Call Kathleen Cooksey at 865-919-7047 to register.

St. Thomas the Apostle, Lenoir City ■ The parish sponsored “trunk or

treat” night Oct. 25. ■ Bishop Richard F. Stika will visit St. Thomas the Apostle on Friday, Nov. 20, to speak to parishioners. ■ Newcomers: Joseph and Maureen Corry, John David and Donna Curry, Robin Redfern Five Rivers Deanery

Holy Trinity, Jefferson City ■ The parish and family life committee

will sponsor a potluck after Mass on Saturday, Nov. 7, in the parish life center to celebrate Father Dan Whitman’s birthday. His birthday is Nov. 3. ■ The Council of Catholic Women and Knights of Columbus will host a potluck dinner reception for Deacon Christopher Riehl on Nov. 14 when he celebrates his first Mass following his priestly ordination. Sign up in the narthex. ■ Anniversary: Kenneth and Ethel Bridgman (61) ■ Baptism: William “Henry” Davis, son of Will and Gretchen Rivers

Notre Dame, Greeneville ■ The Knights of Columbus held their

annual Tootsie Roll Drive on the weekend of Oct. 23 through 25. ■ Anniversaries: Joseph and Vivian Parish notes continued on page 5

COURTESY OF ALLEN KELLER

NOTES

COURTESY OF ROSEANN STRAZINSKY

parish

COUNCIL 6730 AWARDS Grand Knight Bob Mandzak (left) stands with honorees Dick Leonhardt and Carmen and Luis Crespo.

Morristown recognizes honors family, Knight of year hree parishioners of St. Patrick in Morristown were recognized by Knights of Columbus Council 6730 at the group’s annual wives appreciation dinner held recently at Baneberry’s Tavern on the Green. Luis and Carmen Crespo were chosen as family of the year for their dedication to the youth of the parish and to the Knights and for their willingness to help with any job that needs to be done around the church. Mr. Crespo is chairman of the council’s annual Tootsie Roll Drive, which benefits the mentally challenged, and this year the project was so successful that it ranked third in the state. Mr. Crespo is also a board member of

www.dioceseofk noxville.org

Central Services in Morristown, a member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, and a worker with Catholic Charities in Knoxville. Dick Leonhardt, a council officer, was chosen as Knight of the year. Mr. Leonhardt works with the annual Christmas breakfast for mentally challenged students from the Hamblen County school system. Last year he made more than 60 piggy banks for the children. More recently he has started a ministry to visit people at the Life Care nursing home. He takes games and puzzles to the residents and spends time talking with them. He is also a board member of the Knights’ Sutherland-Metz Group Home in Morristown. ■ THE E A S T TE NNE S S E E CATHOLI C

BY TONI PACITTI

The diocesan Office of Marriage Preparation and Enrichment is starting an East Tennessee Retrouvaille CORE (Continuing Our Retrouvaille Experience) community. Those who have attended a Retrouvaille program in the past and would like to join a CORE group should contact Kelly or Heather Neuner at 423-839-1408 or help4marriage@gmail.com. The first CORE meeting will be held Saturday, Nov. 28. Future CORE meetings will be held on third Saturdays. The Retrouvaille program offers tools needed to rediscover a loving marriage relationship. For more information, visit helpourmarriage.com. The Mercy Health Partners Foundation and the Community Coalition on Family Violence will host the annual Anita Gregg Memorial Luncheon at noon Friday, Nov. 6, at the Foundry in Knoxville. The event raises money for the prevention of domestic violence. The featured speaker will be Sarah Buel, a law professor at the University of Texas and a domestic-violence survivor. Luncheon cost is $35. Call the Mercy Foundation office at 865-632-5678 for reservations or more information. A conference on domestic-violence prevention will precede the luncheon, with registration at 8 a.m. and the first speaker at 8:30. Cost to attend both events is $50. A free Remote Area Medical clinic will be held at Union County High School in Maynardville on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 14 and 15. Vision, dental, and general medical services will be provided by volunteer doctors, nurses, dentists, ophthalmologists, and other health professionals. The student parking lot will open at midnight each night, and numbers for services will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis beginning at 3:30 a.m. The clinic will open at 6 a.m. both days. Call Pearl Coffey at 865-585-8194 (for information), Amanda Mason at 992-3868 (medical), or Cindy Lay (992-8038). In 2010 Bishop Richard F. Stika will host celebrations in Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Kingsport to honor married couples and their commitment to the sacrament of marriage. Each celebration will include Mass and an opportunity to renew wedding vows. Mass will begin at 11 a.m. with a luncheon following each event. The first celebration will be held Jan. 9 at St. John Neumann Church in Farragut. The second is set for Feb. 6 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Chattanooga and the third at St. Dominic Church in Kingsport on June 19. To attend one of the celebrations, RSVP to Marian Christiana of the diocesan Office of Marriage Preparation and Enrichment at 423-892-2310 or mchristiana@dioceseofknoxville.org. St. Alphonsus Parish in Crossville is hosting its annual ecumenical prayer service to honor the military at 4 p.m. CST Sunday, Nov. 8. A prayer tree for those serving in the military will be available for anyone who would like to have a loved one remembered. A remembrance panel for those killed in action will be placed near the altar, with space available for pictures. Call Terry Paradis at 931-788-6518 or Karen Burgess at 787-9851 to submit a military member’s name. Everyone is invited to attend the service. Active and retired military of all branches are welcome to attend in uniform. St. Jude School in Chattanooga has application packets for the 2010-11 school year available. Call admissions director Nancy Byrne at 423-877-6022 for more information. St. Joseph School in Knoxville will have an open house at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 8. For more information, call admissions director Dorisha Chargualaf at 865-689-3424, extension 225. A Knoxville Catholic High School admissions information meeting will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15, in the KCHS gym. Anyone interested in applying for admission to KCHS is encouraged to attend. General information will be presented, and application materials will be provided. School administrators, department chairs, and coaches will be available to THE E A S T TE NNE S S E E CATHOLI C

answer questions after the meeting. For more information, contact Barrie Smith, dean of admissions, at 865-5600502 or bsmith@knoxvillecatholic.com. Knights of Columbus Council 3175 will be hosting the James Rogers Christmas show, with a “Salute to Our Heroes” theme, at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4, at the High Places Church at the Grove (formerly the Grove Theater) at 123 Randolph Road in Oak Ridge. Tickets are $20, and all proceeds support Knights’ group homes in Tennessee and local agencies that aid the mentally challenged in Anderson and Roane counties. To buy tickets, send a check made out to “Knights of Columbus” and a self-addressed, stamped envelope to Bill Olka, 114 Parsons Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37830. For more information, call 865-483-1564. Any Knights council in the diocese that wishes to participate in the fundraiser and earn money toward its donation to the MR Foundation should call Mr. Olka for information.

FATHER PETER IORIO

CALENDAR

Knoxville native leads diocesan priest retreat Father Gerard Austin, OP (right), stands with Bishop Richard F. Stika and the diocese’s newest priest, Father Jorge Andres Cano, at the diocesan priest retreat held Oct. 19 through 22 in Maggie Valley, N.C. A Knoxville native, Father Austin spoke on authentic worship to more than 50 priests who traveled from East Tennessee for the event. Father Austin, who celebrated his golden anniversary in the priesthood this year, has taught for 49 years—including 31 at The Catholic University of America—at various institutions in the United States and around the world.

Holy Ghost Parish in Knoxville is asking for donations of toys for an annual collection benefiting the Crazy Quilt Friendship Center, a ministry of Catholic Charities of East Tennessee. Crazy Quilt provides food and offers a number of services to low-income families in Newcomb, which is near Jellico in northern Campbell County. New and good-condition used toys are needed, especially toys for boys and girls ages 10 through 12. Toys may be dropped off at the Holy Ghost Church rectory or St. Joseph School in Knoxville. The deadline is Friday, Dec. 4. For more information, call Merilee Kerwin at 865297-2558. The University of Notre Dame Alumni Club of Chattanooga and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga psychology department are cosponsoring a presentation by Dr. Charles Crowell titled “10 Best Practices of Employee Care” at 12:15 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 5, in the UTC University Center auditorium. Dr. Crowell is an associate professor of psychology at Notre Dame. The talk is part of Notre Dame’s Hesburgh Lecture Series. Call Dr. Brian O’Leary at 423-425-4283 for details. The Knoxville Interfaith Network, which includes Immaculate Conception and other local congregations, will hold its fifth annual KIN in Concert event at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 8, at Middlebrook Pike United Methodist Church. IC parishioners Mark Reda, on the dulcimer, and guitarist-singer Nancy Brennan Strange will be among the performers. Immaculate Conception Church in Knoxville will debut a Sunday afternoon concert series at 2 p.m. Nov. 15, in the parish hall. The Knoxville Brassworx Co., a quintet, will be featured in the first concert. New IC director of music ministry Karl Jacob will play the organ along with the quintet during the program. Admission is free. For more information, contact IC at 865-5221508 or icoffice@bellsouth.net. The Diocesan Discernment Program for 2009-10 for men considering a priestly vocation will offer a day of reflection from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at the Chancery office in Knoxville. The topic will be the life of a diocesan priest. Program participants will attend the national March for Life in Washington, D.C., from Jan. 21 through 23 and attend a discernment retreat Feb. 12 through 14. For more information, contact Father Michael Cummins at the Catholic Center at East Tennessee State University at 423-9267061 or etsucatholiccenter@yahoo.com. St. Alphonsus Parish in Crossville will hold its Holiday Happenings craft fair and bake sale from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (CST) on Friday, Nov. 13, and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, in the parish life center. Items for sale include ornaments, jewelry, hand-painted items, wood crafts, and leather goods. Santa Claus will appear from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday. Lunch will be served both days by the Council of Catholic Women. Good Shepherd Parish in Newport will hold its first holiday bazaar from Calendar continued on page 6

COURTESY OF DEACON SEAN SMITH

on the

Bishop attends first UT football game Bishop Richard F. Stika sports a University of Tennessee cap and shirt as he attends his first Volunteer football game Sept. 12 with Deacon Sean Smith, the diocesan chancellor. The bishop and deacon were among some 100,000 fans at Neyland Stadium who saw the Vols fall to UCLA 19-15.

Bishop to speak at Knox Serrans’ meeting Nov. 12 ishop Richard F. Stika is scheduled to speak at the next meeting of the Serra Club of Knoxville on Thursday, Nov. 12. The club meets on second and

fourth Thursdays in the Shea Room at Sacred Heart Cathedral’s office building. Meetings begin with Mass at 11:30 a.m., followed by lunch at noon. ■

Parish notes continued from page 4

Nemanich (63), Robert and Charlotte Schaed (52), Douglas and Mary McConnell (50)

St. Patrick, Morristown ■ The eighth annual St. Patrick holi-

day bazaar will be held from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, in the parish center. More than 50 vendors will sell items such as jewelry, toys, candles, paintings, and candies. A children’s consignment sale will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13, and continue during the bazaar. Sponsored by the Council of Catholic Women, the bazaar also includes a French café and holiday resale shop. For details, call the parish office at 423-586-9174. ■ Recyclable Christmas decorations are needed for the holiday bazaar. Items may be placed in the box in the narthex. Call Liz Steisslinger at 5875298 or Monica Lakas at 587-4430. ■ The CCD and parish youth are sponsoring the third annual Peanut Butter and Jelly Drive for Central Services in Morristown. Bring plastic jars of peanut butter and jelly to any CCD classroom, or place them in the box in the narthex. Jars will be collected through Sunday, Nov. 8. Smoky Mountain Deanery

Holy Ghost, Knoxville ■ Bishop Richard F. Stika will bless

the newly renovated basement at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12. The evening will consist of the blessing, evening prayer and Benediction, and a reception in honor of the bishop.

Immaculate Conception, Knoxville ■ The high school youth ministry sold

Advent candles and baked goods Nov. 1 to fund holiday service projects. ■ The women’s group’s annual craft fair will be held after all weekend

www.dioceseofk noxville.org

Masses on Nov. 14 and 15. Donations of handmade crafts, quilts, and afghans as well as sewing and crossstitching projects, yarn, and thread are welcome. Call Pat at 865-687-0050. Items are also requested for a bake sale at the fair. Call Pat Wade at 5395314. To reserve a booth, crafters should contact Beth Meyer at 5234173 or ejmeyer1@hotmail.com. ■ Father Joe Ciccone, CSP, will share the story of his priestly journey at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18, in the parish hall.

John XXIII, Knoxville ■ The parish cookbook, Our Sunday Supper, has arrived in time for holiday gift-giving. The cookbook contains more than 300 recipes as well as helpful hints and cooking tips. Cost is $10. Purchase books after Masses, or contact the parish office at 865-523-7931.

Our Lady of Fatima, Alcoa ■ The Council of Catholic Women’s fall

bake sale raised $950 to support its charities. ■ Butter Braid pastry dough is being sold to raise money for the Missionaries of the Gospel of Life. Order after Masses on Nov. 7 and 8. Cost is $12 per package. ■ Bishop Richard F. Stika will be the principal celebrant at weekend Masses on Dec. 12 and 13.

St. Joseph the Worker, Madisonville ■ The women’s group will have spe-

cialized gift baskets available at a silent auction at the men’s group’s spaghetti dinner Saturday, Nov. 21. Call Kathy Trocolla at 423-442-9170 if you are interested in making and donating a basket for the project. ■ Parish cookbooks will be available for sale in late November. ■ NOVEMBER 8, 2009

■

MARY C. WEAVER

COURTESY OF SISTER ALBERTINE PAULUS, RSM (2)

Sister continued from page 1

Chancery receptionist receives a crown Chancery staffers honored receptionist Shelby McMillan at a Mass and luncheon Oct. 28. Mrs. McMillan, seated above with Bishop Richard F. Stika and Monsignor Xavier Mankel, wears a tiara lent to her by coworker Barb Daugherty. Mrs. McMillan retired Oct. 30 after working at the Chancery for 12 years. Look for a story on her in an upcoming edition.

Calendar continued from page 5

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, in the parish hall. Featured items will include Thanksgiving and Christmas wreaths, crafts, knitted and crocheted items, baked goods, prizes, and refreshments. For more information, call the church at 423-623-5051. Rachel’s Vineyard is a retreat for those suffering because of abortion. The next area retreat is set for the weekend of Nov. 6 through 8 at a retreat house in the Cherokee National Forest. Contact Sandi at 865-6944971 or sandi@ccetn.org or Catherine at 694-4971 or Peace4Lilith@aol.com. The Sisters of Mercy convent at 2629 Pennington Bend Road in Nashville is the site of a retreat on the weekend of Nov. 20 through 22. Visit www.hopeafterabortiontn.com, call Phil Trevathan at 615-525-8239, or e-mail info@hopeafter abortiontn.com for details. For a listing of retreat dates and locations and other information on the ministry, visit www.rachelsvineyard.org or call 877Hope-4-Me. Confidentiality is honored at all times. The diocesan Office of Marriage Preparation and Enrichment will sponsor “Building a Bridge: Heart to Heart,” a communication workshop for couples, Saturday, Nov. 7, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Chattanooga. The day will begin with Mass at 8 a.m. and end by noon. Licensed professional counselor Judy Magnussen of the Elbow Tree Christian Counseling Center will facilitate. Cost: $20 per couple. Those who attended an engagement-preparation program in 2009 may attend for free. Register by contacting Marian Christiana at 423-892-2310 or e-mail mchristiana@dioceseofknoxville.org before Monday, Nov. 2. Baby-sitting will be provided at an additional cost. Register for baby-sitting by calling Pam at OLPH at 423-622-7232. A Seekers of Silence Contemplative Saturday Morning will be held Saturday, Nov. 14, at John XXIII Catholic Center in Knoxville. Joy Gaertner will give a talk titled “Finding Spirituality in Recovery: A Path for All of Us.” Coffee and tea will be served at 8:30 a.m.; the workshop will run from 9 a.m. to noon. Bring a bag lunch. RSVP to 865-523-7931. The St. Thomas the Apostle Ukrainian Catholic Mission celebrates the Divine Liturgy at 10 a.m. Sundays in the chapel at the Chancery office in Knoxville. Call Father Richard Armstrong at 865-584-3307.

Sister Albertine Paulus, RSM, poses with brothers (from left) Jim and T. J. during a family dinner following the Oct. 18 Mass honoring her for her service to the diocese.

THE PAULUS KIDS

program, and numerous pilgrimages. She will continue to lead pilgrimages for the diocese. Bishop Richard F. Stika celebrated the Mass at Sacred Heart. Concelebrating were host pastor Father Al Humbrecht, diocesan vicar general Monsignor Xavier Mankel, moderator of the curia Father David Boettner, and a dozen other priests of the diocese. Sister Albertine’s longtime pal, Sister Madaleva Partenope, RSM, and several Dominican Sisters were in attendance. Also present were three Religious Sisters of Mercy of Alma, Mich., who began serving in the diocese this fall. “We’re invited to be the face of Jesus, and that’s what we celebrate today,” said the bishop. “Sister’s not retiring from life or the religious community; she’s just changing addresses in terms of her daily activity, so we pray this song of thanksgiving for Sister and the face that she has projected: the face of Jesus.” Bishop Stika remembered Sister Albertine’s parents, Albert and Ella Paulus, for whom the multipurpose room at John XXIII Parish in Knoxville is named. “Today as we honor

Sister Albertine, in a special way we honor women religious no matter what community they might be associated with,” said the bishop. “We honor women who have answered God’s call to come and to follow.” The bishop said his assignments in St. Louis, which included serving as vicar for religious and as a delegate for 140 contemplative sisters, allowed him to see women religious as “they truly are.” “The sisters are about evangelization, love, compassion, and respect,” he said. “They are what Christianity is all about: Catholicism. To be the face and the voice of Jesus Christ in whatever situation we wind up in. And so in some ways as we honor Sister Albertine, in fact we honor the vocation of all women who have said yes.” Sister Albertine followed in the footsteps of Venerable Catherine McAuley, said Bishop Stika. The bishop told his audience to pray for the canonization of the Sisters of Mercy foundress as a way of honoring Sister Albertine—otherwise the latter “will come looking for you.” Bishop Stika said

that “thank you” was all that he could say to Sister Albertine “unless I stand here and preach for the next three hours.” “I think those words are powerful words, not only in my name, but also in the names of the bishops who have served before. Thank you for all the many lives you have touched in evangelization and in RCIA and in Catholics who have returned to their roots. Thank you for your vocation to the Sisters of Mercy, for saying yes so long ago.” The best way to honor Sister Albertine “is to pray for her and pray for her ongoing ministry in the church, and to pray for her community and religious communities throughout the world, that they continue to be blessed by remarkable men and women of faith who accept the call of Jesus to come and to follow,” said the bishop. At the end of Mass, Sister Albertine recalled the phone call from Nashville Bishop James D. Niedergeses in the 1980s that led her out of her teaching career and into diocesanwide service. “Little did I dream what would come of it. I was teaching

Mass in the extraordinary form (“traditional Latin”) is celebrated at 1:30 p.m. each Sunday at Holy Ghost Church in Knoxville and at 3 p.m. on first and third Sundays at St. Thérèse of Lisieux Church in Cleveland. Visit www.knoxlatinmass.net for details. Upcoming events for Catholic Singles of Greater Knoxville (40 and over) include the following: ■ Sunday, Nov. 8: Chili cook-off at World’s Fair Park to benefit Second Harvest Food Bank, 1 to 7 p.m. Visit etnchilicookoff.com for details. E-mail john@ secondharvestknox.org to volunteer for the event. ■ Thursday, Nov. 12: Dinner at Jason’s Deli, North Peters Road, 6 p.m. RSVP to Hannalore at 865-6942791 by Nov. 11. ■ Friday, Nov. 13: Dinner and a movie. Meet at Calhoun’s in Turkey Creek at 6:30 p.m. RSVP to Randy at 556-3781 by Nov. 12. ■ Sunday, Nov. 15: “Brunch and banter” at Puléo’s Grille at West Town Mall, 1:15 p.m. RSVP to Sandra J. at 602-6773 or 504-913-1610 before 5 p.m. Nov. 13. Buddy’s Race Against Cancer, 5K run or walk, 3 p.m. E-mail Donna at penguin7@prodigy.net for details. ■ Friday, Nov. 20: Reservations due for Biltmore Candlelight Tour in December. Call Randy at 556-3781 for details. ■ Saturday, Nov. 21: Dancing at Level 10 in Western Plaza, 9 p.m. RSVP to Dru at 604-3291 by Nov. 20. ■ 6

■

NOVEMBER 8, 2009

Sister Madaleva Partenope (left) poses with her close friend Sister Albertine Paulus shortly before the Mass at Sacred Heart Cathedral in which the latter would be honored. Sister Madaleva, who lives in Nashville, was one of several Sisters of Mercy who joined Sister Albertine for the celebration. www.d ioceseofknoxville.or g

high school and had no intention of doing anything else, and look what a beautiful, beautiful second career this has turned out to be.” Sister Albertine thanked all four bishops she has served, including Knoxville’s first two ordinaries, Bishop Anthony J. O’Connell and Bishop Joseph E. Kurtz, “and all the other people who have been so kind and tolerant and so patient with me through these years.” “I know I’m not planning to stop, and I trust that none of you will either because we never know when that kind face, that happy word, just that little touch will make all the difference for someone,” said Sister Albertine. “I know well that is what you will do, and that’s what you’ll take away today. God bless all of you.” A long ovation followed her remarks. At a reception afterward in the Sacred Heart Cathedral School gym, Sister Albertine’s well-wishers viewed a video created by Deacon Patrick MurphyRacey featuring photos of the honoree and interviews with fellow sisters, priests, and other friends (view the video at bit.ly/39rZFy). Father Boettner introduced the video. “I want to especially thank Sister Albertine for her great love, for always looking for those on the margins, for those who fall through the cracks, making sure to look in every corner of the diocese for those who might be forgotten by others,” he said. “Thank you, Sister Albertine, for the great love and service that you have given and continue to give to the diocese and the people of Knoxville.” Sister Albertine joked that giving such a tribute to her now will save time on a certain future ceremony. “I won’t need a funeral,” she said. ■

THE E A S T TE NNE S S E E CATHOL I C

catholic

YOUTH

ishop Richard F. Stika celebrated his first diocesan Youth Mass on Sept. 5 at Sacred Heart Cathedral. As part of the 21st annual event, the bishop commissioned the 2009-10 representatives on the Diocesan Youth Ministry Advisory Council. DYMAC members from the Chattanooga Deanery are Katie West, Megan Mahoney, Savannah Miller, Neil Howard, and Nathan Bird. Representing the Cumberland Mountain Deanery are Courtney Campbell, Jocelyn Reddy, Katie Herbst, Eric Humes, Gloria D’Azevedo, and Mike Burns. The Five Rivers Deanery representatives are Liz Tenant, Molly Payne, Luis Mejia, Ethan Lott,

COURTESY OF GEORGE LECRONE SR.

Bishop Stika commissions 2009-10 DYMAC members at Youth Mass

NANCY HOWARD

Eagle award for Quinn Quinn W. Hickey received his Eagle certificate from the National Catholic Committee on Scouting on Sept. 5 in a Court of Honor ceremony at St. Thérèse of Lisieux Church in Cleveland. Quinn is a member of Troop 188. With him are George LeCrone Sr., chairman of the Diocesan Catholic Committee on Scouting, and St. Thérèse pastor Father Peter Iorio, also an Eagle Scout. CHATTANOOGA DELEGATION Donna Jones, Chattanooga Deanery coordinator of Youth Ministry, stands with her deanery’s representatives on the Diocesan Youth Ministry Advisory Council. From left are Savannah Miller, Megan Mahoney, Nathan Bird, Neil Howard, and Katie West. At right is Josh Kosky, the council member representing Notre Dame High School in Chattanooga.

Also on the council are school representatives Josh Kosky of Notre Dame High School in Chattanooga and Alex Lowe of Knoxville Catholic High School. Hope Feist will rep-

resent the diocesan Office of Justice and Peace on the council, and Emily Hooyman and Anahi Ortiz are the representatives for Catholic Scouting and Hispanic Ministry, respectively. ■

Notre Dame students named National Merit Scholarship semifinalists

COURTESY OF GAYLE SCHOENBORN

Notre Dame principal Perry Storey stands with (from left) Lenyonga Fomunung, Christopher DeBarge, Katie West, and Conor Delaney.

SENIOR SCHOLARS

Achievement Scholarship Program recognizes academically promising black students throughout the nation and provides scholarships to a substantial number of the most outstanding program participants. Mr. Storey presented certificates to the

students and praised them for their dedication to academic excellence as they also participated in athletics, school leadership, and community service. “I’m extremely proud of their level of dedication and their hard work,” said Mr. Storey. ■

Ad Altare Dei for Kyle Boy Scout Kyle Runyan, son of Daryl and Kim Runyan of St. Bridget Parish in Dayton, recently completed the requirements for his Ad Altare Dei award. St. Bridget pastor Father Sam Sturm presented Kyle with the emblem at Mass on Sept. 6.

COURTESY OF PAM RHOADES

Scholarship Program and a semifinalist in the 2010 National Achievement Scholarship Program. Commended students placed among the top 5 percent of more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2010 competition. The National

Grace wins scholarship Sacred Heart Cathedral School third-grader Grace Bobo was one of several scholarship winners in a nationwide contest sponsored by Educational Outfitters. The program was open to kindergarten through 12thgraders, and a total of $10,000 in scholarships was awarded. The contest theme was “Faith, Hope, and Love,” and entries included essays, poetry, songs, videos, blogs, and websites. Grace did a drawing to represent the theme. Out of 550 nationwide entries, her work was chosen as a winner, and she was awarded a $500 scholarship Sept. 10 by Stephanie Duncan (right), owner of Educational Outfitters in Knoxville. Also with Grace at right are Sacred Heart principal Sedonna Prater (left), dad Michael Bobo, and mom Julie Rabun.

The good we do lives after us— when we remember to make a will.

Only you can divide your own property as you want it divided. A bequest to your church can be a living memorial to the nobility of your life.

COURTESY OF LAURIE WHITMORE

Ready to climb Eighth-graders at St. Mary School in Johnson City await final instructions as they harness up for the high-ropes course at Rivers Way Outdoor Adventure Center in Bluff City on Sept. 10. Eighth-graders make an annual trek to Rivers Way for a team-building experience.

Top honor for St. John Neumann Scout Henley Baugh attained the rank of Eagle Scout in an Oct. 18 ceremony at the Loudon County Animal Shelter. Henley is a parishioner of St. John Neumann in Farragut, where he is a member of Troop 125. He is the son of Robert and Penne Baugh. Henley is pictured with his father, who is also his Scoutmaster. For his service project Henley designed and constructed a 1/8-mile wooded walking trail shelter volunteers could use to exercise the animals. His project required some 245 hours of work.

COURTESY OF ROSA AYALA

rincipal Perry Storey of Notre Dame High School in Chattanooga announced Oct. 1 that Christopher DeBarge, Conor Delaney, and Katie West have been named semifinalists in the 55th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Semifinalists are the highest-scoring entrants in each state, representing less than 1 percent of U.S. high school seniors. Semifinalists in the National Merit program have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 8,200 National Merit scholarships, worth more than $36 million, that will be offered next spring. Mr. Storey also announced that Lenyonga Fomunung has been named a Commended Student in the National Merit

COURTESY OF ROBERT BAUGH

Janelle Ronsse, and Sean Kirvin. Smoky Mountain Deanery DYMAC members are Nicole Nabozniak, Garrett Parsons, Marek Twarzynski, Rebecca Neighbor, and Allison Connelly.

THE E A S T TE NNE S S E E CATHOLIC

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Deaths HAZEL DICKERSON

Hazel McKinney Dickerson, 88, grandmother of Father Tony Dickerson, died Saturday, Oct. 17, at Heritage Center in Morristown. Mrs. Dickerson was a member of Bethel Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond Dickerson; her parents, Ben and Mary McKinney; four sisters; and four brothers. Survivors include her sons and daughters-inlaw, Jimmy and Louise Dickerson, Ray and Ada Dickerson, and Louis and Sandra Dickerson; daughter and son-in-law, Sarah and Jim Seals; three sisters; five grandchildren; and four greatgrandchildren. Graveside services were held Tuesday, Oct. 20, in Hamblen Memory Gardens, Russellville, with Father Dickerson officiating. ■

Readings continued from page 2

have an end. Indeed, Jesus has definitively destroyed sin. He is now victoriously seated at the right hand of the Father. His forgiveness is forever. We can experience total freedom from sin (our own and others’) only when matter and time cease to exist. The Book of Daniel reminds its readers that Israel has a mighty defender against evil. The struggle will end with Michael triumphant. Evil will be destroyed. Only the good and the wise will remain. These will shine brilliantly and live with God forever. So we make the transition to a new year by getting back to basics. The world will pass away, but God’s redeeming love is eternal. ■ Father Brando is a retired priest of the diocese.

Holy Family continued from page 1

MARY C. WEAVER

“We’ll pray and bless this place and make it holy,” he said, “even though it’s already really holy because of all the work and effort that’s gone into it.” Using one of his favorite words, Father Schriver added, “It’s awesome everybody’s here. So let’s begin.” The bishop echoed his enthusiasm, explaining that he had recently taken part in a question-and-answer session with students at John XXIII Catholic Center on the University of Tennessee at Knoxville campus. “One of the questions they posed to me was, ‘What is your favorite thing about being a bishop?’ Well, it’s things like this,” he said. “Since I’ve come to Knoxville, I’ve dedicated three new churches and now this family-life center. It’s a testimony to the wonderful spirit of our diocese. “Our diocese is young, but our faith is old, and this is just a reminder of what can be accomplished when we decide to do something.” Summing up some of the parish’s history, he mentioned that the community had begun meeting in 1982 in a bank, then a restaurant, then a Methodist church. In June 1985 the congregation’s own church building was dedicated. The bishop congratulated the congregation on having completed the new building—and also offered a challenge. “I’m expecting great things out of this parish,” he said. “One thing I’m expecting is a vocation from this parish. I want a vocation as a religious sister from this parish, and it’s up to you. It’s up to you to provide good priests in years to come from this parish.” To accomplish this, he said, parishioners should look around to see whether their fellow members have the attributes and qualities needed for priests and religious—and they should pray. “It’s up to each and every one of us: the bishop, the deacons, the pastor, the Knights of Columbus, and everyone else to continue to pray for and to encourage vocations.” ■

Bishop Richard F. Stika dedicated Holy Family Parish’s new family-life center, seen above, on Oct. 18. The Seymour parish has about 225 families.

HOLY GROUND

Pro-life missionaries make promises embers of Missionaries of the Gospel of Life, a pro-life apostolate, will make their promises to Bishop Richard F. Stika at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, during a ceremony at Sacred Heart Cathedral. A reception will follow. For details, call Paul Simoneau at 865-5843307 or Lisa Morris at 567-1245. ■

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obsessions

BY GINGER HUTTON

‘Brilliant ecumenism’ The pope’s invitation offers Anglicans the protection of sound doctrine.

Pope Benedict’s decision to allow Anglicans to convert en masse and retain their traditions that are compatible with Catholicism is brilliant ecumenism. It is also a great act of compassion toward traditional Anglicans. The Anglican Communion as it has existed historically is in its death throes; its role as the Protestant church that had retained the most elements of the apostolic faith is at an end. Traditional Anglicans now find themselves in a church that has set itself firmly on a postChristian trajectory. Anglican Bishop John Broadhurst summed up the situation this way: “I believed in the church I joined, but it has been revealed to have no doctrine of its own. I personally think it has gone past the point of no return. The Anglican experiment is over.” The Catholic and Anglican decisions on women’s ordination illustrate the reasons for the modern collapse of Anglicanism. Here in a quote from John Paul II’s apostolic letter Ordinatio Sacerdotalis is how the Catholic Church dealt with that question: When the question of the ordination of women arose in the Anglican Communion, Pope Paul VI, out of fidelity to his office of safeguarding the Apostolic Tradition, and also with a view to removing a new obstacle placed in the way of Christian unity, re-

called to

minded Anglicans of the position of the Catholic Church: “She holds that it is not admissible to ordain women to the priesthood, for very fundamental reasons. These reasons include the example recorded in the Sacred Scriptures of Christ choosing his Apostles only from among men; the constant practice of the church, which has imitated Christ in choosing only men; and her living teaching authority which has consistently held that the exclusion of women from the priesthood is in accordance with God’s plan for his church.”

The Catholic Church looked to its own faith, tradition, and doctrinal understanding of men and women—created equally in the image of God but made to express that image differently—and rejected women’s ordination. When this was not well received, John Paul II declared formally “that the church has no authority whatsoever to confer priestly ordination on women and that this judgment is to be definitively held by all the church’s faithful.” Having dealt with that, the church was freed to look more deeply at the gifts women offer and to find ways to better incorporate those gifts at all levels in the church. We are richer for it. The Anglican Church looked not to its own tradition and theology but to the norms and understandings of the secular world. Forgetting that the priesthood is a vocation is given by God, the question was framed not as a

BY SUZANNE ERPENBACH

Many relationships Our interactions with others determine how we will be remembered.

How will you be remembered? This question prompts reflection, particularly in reference to our stewardship beliefs and practices. Our daily living becomes a script for our legacy. We write our own obituary through the choices we make and the way we live. We remember the saints of modern times as well as of centuries past. Coming from varied walks of life, they give witness to their relationship with God through acts of love and service. We are all called to be holy and to use and give our many gifts. We also remember and pray for family, friends, and others who have passed on to eternal life. We recall how they lived and influenced our development. Relationships. This single word defines how we will be remembered. Day to-day, through the stages of life, we form and build relationships with God and others. Our observations and experiences help us establish values, attitudes, and practices. Relationships come in many forms. We know God the Father as our Creator. God the Son taught and mentored the formation of relationships. The Holy Spirit is

present to guide our interactions with others. Other relationships are social, interpersonal, hierarchical, open, emotional, dependent, parental/family, conditional, employment-related, sexual, financial, and so on. Tests such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator are designed to measure psychological preferences in how people relate to one another. God’s loving relationship to us has always been beyond human comprehension. God gives generously, and we receive, over and over again. We might ask ourselves whether we return this love and generosity to him and to others. Others’ assistance or offerings of prayer, time, and talent demonstrate the value they place on one-to-one relationships. Observe the people who raise their hands with a willingness to help and who make themselves available to provide assistance and support. They give joyful witness to loving and serving others. News media daily report stories that touch hearts and motivate people to link with known and unknown persons. We are connected in our relationship to one another in our home, parish, community, and nation and across the globe. Read obituaries to identify the qualities and practices that make people memorable.

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question about the nature of the church but as a question of equality and rights. The supporters of women’s ordination made strong modernist arguments for change, and those opposed had no authority to declare that this tradition could not be changed. When agreement proved impossible, those who wished to ordain women simply did so, and no one had the authority to stop them. Once it became clear that that tradition could be abrogated, others could not hold. In less than 40 years’ time the Anglican Communion has found itself with bishops whose sexual morality openly defies Christian norms and who proclaim in public that Christ is not necessary for salvation. They are divided to the point of disintegration. Yet the Communion wasn’t actually wrecked by the decision to ordain women and non-celibate gays as priests and bishops or even by that truly bizarre attempt to ordain a Buddhist bishop. Those decisions were merely symptomatic of the underlying problem: it is inherently impossible to maintain unity and sound doctrine in an ecclesial system where no one has the authority to declare definitively what is and is not compatible with the apostolic faith. There are some in the Catholic Church who mistakenly view the church’s authority to define doctrine as restrictive and divisive. The collapse of Anglicanism illustrates that the opposite is true. Sound doctrine unites us, and the authority to defend that doctrine against error and deviation is not a chain that restricts us so much as it is a wall that protects us. ■ Miss Hutton is a parishioner of St. Mary in Oak Ridge and a full-time godmother. Keep a journal to record the experiences and feelings that affect your life, particularly in positive ways. Connect with those who dedicate time and effort to their spiritual development. The upcoming holidays provide opportunities to get better acquainted with people by sharing stories; asking about their dreams, interests, and experiences; and relating how others are special to you. Taking time with others to observe, listen, converse, connect, pray, and offer support can enhance relationships with new understanding and deeper appreciation. Stewardship is based on the spiritual principles of the Old Testament and the teachings of Jesus. When these are implemented, both givers’ and recipients’ lives are changed. Stewardship engenders a spirituality that deepens our relationship with the Lord. Christians are called to look outward and to place themselves at the service of the entire human community, particularly to those most in need. As we strive to make connections, we see the face of Jesus in others. There is a time and season for everything, but relationships bridge all periods, events, and happenings. Think about how you wish to be remembered. Each new moment, experience, and encounter provides the opportunity to define and develop your relationships with God and others. May God bless you. ■ Mrs. Erpenbach directs the diocesan Stewardship and Development Office. THE E A S T TE NNE S S E E CATHOLI C

etc

PEOPLE

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BY DAN MCWILLIAMS

Glade resident elected NCCW president Patty Johnson is the first Tennessee woman to hold the organization’s top office. atty Johnson of Fairfield Glade received some momentous news Sept. 26 in Jacksonville, but there weren’t too many people awake to hear it at 3:30 a.m. That’s when the voting results were announced to her and to the other two candidates for the presidency of the National Council of Catholic Women—and when she learned she was the winner. “Of course I was excited, but there’s a certain amount of fear of the unknown,” she said in an Oct. 28 interview. “I knew I had a big job ahead of me. I knew it would take a lot of faith and trust in the Lord to help me with this job, as well as the support of women around the country. I could overwhelmingly feel the PRESIDENT AND PAL Patty Johnson (right), a former longtime parishsupport of the women at the ioner of St. Bridget in Dayton, stands with Janice Mickel of St. Bridget at convention, and I’ve always the NCCW convention in Jacksonville. felt that the Lord has guided me in this work. I’m happy in tion who are speaking for life present at the convention disthis position.” and the human dignity of all cussed, amended, and apThe St. Francis of Assisi people who are acting to proproved a full revision of the parishioner is the first Tentect our God-given resources NCCW bylaws as well as nessean elected NCCW presiand who are working for amendments to the organizadent. She has served the peace and justice in the tion’s articles of incorporaCCW for more than 40 years world.” tion. Under the revision, at the parish through national Parishes are affiliate memmember organizations such as levels, including her recent bers of the NCCW, but diocesan, deanery, or parish stint as the national council’s women are not automatically women’s groups can cast two vice president of region III, a members of the national votes at national meetings. Invast area of the country that dividual members reincludes Tennessee. tain one vote. Mrs. Johnson said her To learn more about the national and Other changes inmany friends around diocesan councils, visit these websites: volved the composition the diocese “have been of the board of directhrilled” at her election. tors, which will now National Council of Catholic Women, “I’ve received so consist of the officers www.nccw.org many good wishes, and 28 province direccongratulatory cards, tors, a reduction in the Knoxville Diocesan Council of Catholic spiritual bouquets—just size of the nominating Women, www.kdccw.org. all kinds of support,” committee from nine to she said. “The prayers five, and the creation of people have told me position of a presidentthe they’ve said for me have been council, said Mrs. Johnson. elect to ensure continuity in just amazing.” “We like for the women to the leadership of the board of Her first few weeks on the take ownership and actually directors. The shift from rejob have been busy. have a personal membership gional vice presidents to a “There have been a lot of in the National Council of president-elect will be fully new beginnings. I’ve talked to Catholic Women. They reimplemented at the close of a lot of people across the counceive direct mailings from the the 2011 convention; the vice try. I’ve had conference calls national council and receive presidents elected at the 2009 with our interim executive diour official publication, convention will serve their rector every week, and we’re Catholic Woman magazine.” full two-year terms. making a lot of plans and beIn her statement Mrs. JohnAdditional changes includginning to bring to fruition son said, “We are all created ed the expansion of voting some of the things we had to know, love, and serve our (electronically or by mail) to hoped for in creating a new God.” all members whether they atNCCW for our members.” “For the next two years I tend the convention or not Membership growth for commit myself to this fundaand the ability for the board NCCW is Mrs. Johnson’s mental truth of our Catholic to amend the bylaws based on No. 1 goal for the council, she faith. The women of the counthe needs of the organization. said. In a recent statement she cil are united in prayer and At the closing Mass, Bishop implored the women of Tenservice. Acting on this belief, I Michael J. Bransfield of nessee to help her achieve it. will promote attendance at Wheeling–Charleston, W.Va., “Seek out a local councildaily Mass, reading Scripture, commended council members. woman in your parish for inand acting on the word of “I admire your ability to formation on becoming a God as we serve our brothers preserve this wonderful ormember of the National and sisters with love and joy.” ganization for our nation and Council of Catholic Women The convention was held the church and the work you or go to the NCCW website, Sept. 23 through 26 at the have done,” he said. “Keep up www.nccw.org, to enroll as a Hyatt Regency Jacksonville your prayers for priests; if we member of this Catholic faithRiverfront. More than 950 don’t have good pastors, it’s based organization. You will members and friends of the going to affect you, the faiththen stand united with NCCW attended. ful, more than anyone else.” ■ women from across our naSome 747 voting members COURTESY OF SUZANNE ERPENBACH

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The closing Mass was concelebrated by more than 200 African bishops, and the liturgy combined Roman and African elements. A Nigerian choir, backed by a restrained drum and percussion section, sang a processional hymn in the Igbo language as the pope entered the basilica. In his homily Pope Benedict said the church is called upon to deliver, in word and deed, Christianity’s perennial message of hope, which “the Lord of history never tires of renewing for the oppressed and overwhelmed humanity of every era and every land.” “Get up, church in Africa, family of God,” he said. “Set out on the path of a new evanTHE E A S T TE NNE S S E E CATHOLIC

gelization with the courage that comes from the Holy Spirit.” God’s plan does not change, he said, and it is always aimed at the kingdom of liberty and peace for all. This implies his preference for those deprived of peace and freedom and those whose dignity has been violated, he said. “We think in particular of our brothers and sisters who in Africa suffer poverty, diseases, injustice, wars and violence, and forced migration,” he said. The pope said the church must operate by combining evangelization and the promotion of social justice. Its method of “living the Gospel in the first person” seems to be the only one capable of helping Africa

emerge from “the slavery of hunger and sickness,” he said. He said globalization, in particular, needs to be steered by the church toward a more inclusive economic model that benefits all people. The church must work to “ensure that no African should be deprived of his or her daily bread,” he said. The liturgy ended with an “Ave Maria” sung in Igbo by the Nigerian choir, and a liturgical chant in Ge’ez, a liturgical language of Ethiopia, invoking the “path of truth.” ■ Contributing to this story were Carol Glatz and Cindy Wooden at the Vatican. Copyright 2009 Catholic News Service/U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops

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PARACLETE

BY VONNIE SPICER

Taking time for Advent ith . . . Advent a new liturgical year begins,” Pope John Paul II said during his Dec. 2, 2001, Angelus message. “The church takes up her journey again and invites us to reflect more intensely on the mystery of Christ, a mystery that is always new and that time cannot exhaust . . . Thanks to him the history of humanity proceeds as a pilgrimage toward the fulfillment of the kingdom . . . ” The ancient Israelites waited and watched expectantly for the coming of the Messiah—always on edge, always looking for signs. The liturgical season of Advent gives us the opportunity to enter into that mystery as we too search for his presence. Pausing from our busyness, we tarry in the mystery of what is and what is to come, seeing the signs of God’s presence and experiencing our longing for the fulfillment of the promise begun with Christ’s birth, death, and resurrection. Fortunately, we do not have to travel alone into the Advent mystery. Liguori Publications has compiled a series of books garnering the wisdom of our church’s spiritual leaders. Each book is divided into two parts: Advent and Christmas. Every day of the season the reader re-

ceives words of wisdom from the chosen spiritual guide, a scriptural reference, a short prayer, and an activity to apply the selections to daily life. Ask to see our display, which includes volumes in this series with the reflections of Pope John Paul II, St. Francis, St. Thomas Aquinas, G. K. Chesterton, Thomas Merton, Fulton Sheen, Henri Nouwen, and others. The Paraclete also has numerous pamphlets for family celebrations and preparation. Jay Cormier’s The Season of Light (Liturgical Press, 1997) incorporates the format of evening prayer with the lighting of the Advent candles. David Came outlines 7 Ways to Get Ready for Jesus’ Birthday (Marian Press, 2004). Anne Neuberger uses story to center daily family devotions in Wait for the Light (Creative Communications for the Parish, 2009). In Spirit of Advent: Daily Devotions for Advent (Creative Communications for the Parish, 2009), Father Martin Pable reflects on the Advent Scripture readings. Do not lose Advent in the rush of preparation for Christmas. Come, Lord Jesus. ■ Call the store at 865588-0388 or 800-3332097.

Knights Council 8781 donates $16,000 to Catholic Charities iting increased need, Knights of Columbus Council 8781 donated $16,000 to Catholic Charities of East Tennessee Inc. in a “surprise” presentation Oct. 14 to Father Ragan Schriver, the agency’s executive director. The astonished Father Schriver thanked the Knights for stepping up on behalf of the children, seniors, and families CCET assists each year through a variety of social-service programs. The funds, a combination of Knights’ contributions and a matching grant from the Knights of Columbus MR Foundation of Tennessee, is eight times the Farragut council’s usual donation. Bill Wicke and Richard Hughes, who hold state and local leadership positions with the Knights, made the presentation, saying they had worked to increase their giving in 2009 “in view of economic difficulties that have strapped many agencies that provide much-needed services to those who most need assistance.” Father Schriver explained that the donation will be used for the agency’s Columbus Home services, which help abused, neglected, and endangered children and youth. “The Knights have always come through for us,” Father Schriver said. “In fact, the Columbus Home name is an acknowledgment of the huge role the Knights played in founding Columbus Home nearly 40 years ago.” For more information on Catholic Charities of East Tennessee, contact Freddi Birdwell, community relations and development director, at freddi @ccetn.org or 865-524-9896. ■

Take note of ETC deadlines e welcome submissions about parish and community events. Send notices by e-mail (mary@dioceseofknoxville.org), fax (865584-8124), or mail (P.O. Box 11127, Knoxville, TN 37939). To make sure we receive information about upcoming events in time for publication, please submit it by the following deadlines: ■ Monday, Nov. 9, for the Nov. 22 issue ■ Monday, Nov. 23, for the Dec. 6 issue ■ Monday, Dec. 7, for the Dec. 20 issue. When submitting photos or information about past events, please keep in mind that we have a backlog of submissions. ■

NOVEMBER 8, 2009

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New path for Anglicans to come to Rome

WIRE

Bishops process at the start of the closing Mass of the Synod of Bishops for Africa in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican Oct. 25.

‘NO DIVISIONS’

African synod closes with Mass, message, and final proposals B Y J OHN THAVIS

VATICAN CITY (CNS)—After three weeks of discussion and strategizing, the Synod of Bishops for Africa ended with calls for spiritual conversion and social reforms on the African continent. The more than 200 participating bishops published a message Oct. 23, appealing for a fairer global order based on Gospel values and telling corrupt Catholic politicians in Africa to “repent or resign” in the name of the common good. At a closing Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica Oct. 25, Pope Benedict XVI said if the church wants to change hearts and minds in Africa it must itself be a model of unity with “no divisions based on ethnic, language, or cultural groups.” The pope, who presided over most of the synod sessions, lunched with participants Oct. 24 and thanked them for “a good job.” He also received 57 final propositions from the synod, to be used as the basis for a papal document on pastoral directions in Africa. The propositions called for a new spirituality to counter bad government, ethnic tensions, disease, exploitation by multinational companies, and the cultural agenda of foreign-aid organizations. The pope encouraged the bishops to return to their African dioceses and broadcast their 11page message, which denounced moral and social ills while reminding Africans of their traditional values, particularly regarding the family. The message said poverty, misery, war, and chaos are most often caused by “a tragic complicity and criminal conspiracy of local leaders and foreign interests.” Africa needs “saintly politicians who will clean the continent of corruption, work for the good of the people, and know how to galvanize other men and women of good will from outside the church to join hands against the common evils that beset our nations,” the message said. The bishops called on international corporations operating in Africa to stop “their criminal devastation of the environment in their greedy exploitation of natural resources.” They lamented that no international body or world leader has come forth to stop “these crimes against humanity” that “foment wars in order to make fast gains from chaos at the cost of human lives and blood.” The synod’s message noted the church’s valuable work in fighting HIV and AIDS and caring for those affected and expressed agreement with Pope Benedict that condoms would not beat the pandemic. It asked people to recognize the success obtained by prevention programs that advocate abstinence and fidelity within marriage. The synod’s propositions also spoke about AIDS, calling for efforts against anything “that helps the spread of the disease, such as poverty, the breakdown of family life, marital unfaithfulness, promiscuity, and a lifestyle that is devoid of human values and Gospel virtues.” One of the strongest synod propositions condemned a section of the 2003 Maputo Protocol, adopted by the African Union in Maputo, Mozambique, on women’s rights in Africa for encouraging the continent’s governments to provide abortion services in cases of rape, incest, or danger to a woman’s physical or mental health. While thanking international aid agencies for their assistance, the bishops also criticized aid programs that come with strings attached that violate the recipients’ moral and cultural values. The propositions said the family in Africa is threatened today by the practice of abortion, the denigration of childbearing, “the distortion of the notion of marriage and the family itself,” and divorce. The bishops called for better education of Catholics in the meaning of Christian marriage, improved marriage-preparation programs and better support for families. The propositions condemned all acts of violence against women, including “the battering of wives, the disinheritance of daughters, the oppression of widows in the name of tradition, forced marriages, female genital mutilation, trafficking in women, and several other abuses such as sex slavery and sex tourism.” Synod members promised to promote the education of girls and women, open shelters for those who are abused, and bring women into church decision-making structures. Synod continued on page 9

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VATICAN CITY (CNS)—Pope Benedict XVI has established a special structure for Anglicans who want to be in full communion with the Roman Catholic Church while preserving aspects of their Anglican spiritual and liturgical heritage, said U.S. Cardinal William J. Levada. The cardinal, prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, said a new apostolic constitution would establish “personal ordinariates”—similar to dioceses—to oversee the pastoral care of those who want to bring elements of their Anglican identity into the Catholic Church with them. Anglican priests who are married may be ordained Catholic priests, but married Anglican bishops will not be able to function as Catholic bishops, in keeping with the long-standing Catholic and Orthodox tradition of ordaining only unmarried clergy as bishops, Cardinal Levada said. The cardinal announced the new arrangement at a press conference Oct. 20 at the Vatican. He said the pope’s apostolic constitution and norms for implementing it were undergoing final revisions and would be published in a couple of weeks. In establishing the new jurisdictions, Pope Benedict is responding to “many requests” submitted by individual Anglicans and by Anglican groups—including “20 to 30 bishops”— asking to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church, the cardinal said. At the same time, Cardinal Levada said the new provision does not weaken the commitment of the Vatican to promoting Christian unity but recognizes that many Anglicans share the Catholic faith and that Anglicans have a spiritual and liturgical life worth preserving. “It has always been the principal aim— the principal aim—to achieve the full, visible unity” of the Catholic Church and Anglican Communion, the cardinal said. But given recent changes within many Anglican provinces, with the ordination of women priests and bishops and the acceptance of homosexuality, the prospect of full unity “seemed to recede,” he said. The church recognizes and welcomes those Anglicans who fully share the Catholic faith, agree with the Catholic view that only men can be ordained

CNS PHOTO/OWEN SWEENEY III, CATHOLIC REVIEW

CNS PHOTO/PAUL HARING

The pope opens a door to Anglicans who wish to join the Catholic Church. By Cindy Wooden

Sister Catherine Grace Bowen, left, Sister Mary Joan Walker, Mother Christina Christie, and Sister Hannah Smith, All Saints’ Sisters of the Poor, exchange the sign of peace during their reception into the Catholic Church on Sept. 3 in the Archdiocese of Baltimore. The former Episcopal nuns cited unity and orthodoxy as their primary reasons for choosing to become Catholic. Pope Benedict XVI has established a special structure for Anglicans who want to be in full communion with the Catholic Church while preserving aspects of their Anglican spiritual and liturgical heritage.

NEWLY CATHOLIC

priests, and recognize the role of the bishop of Rome—the pope— as the sign and guarantor of church unity, he said. At a press conference in London on Oct. 20 Anglican Archbishop Rowan Williams of Canterbury, head of the Anglican Communion, and Archbishop Vincent Nichols of Westminster, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, issued a joint statement, saying the new provisions are a recognition of “the substantial overlap in faith, doctrine, and spirituality between the Catholic Church and the Anglican tradition.” “Without the dialogues of the past 40 years, this recognition would not have been possible, nor would hopes for full visible unity have been nurtured,” the two leaders said. Archbishop Williams told reporters that some members of the Church of England are uneasy about positions their church is taking yet would not want to become Roman Catholic. “This will not resolve their challenges, and we in the Church of England have to continue to engage with that,” he said. Cardinal Levada told reporters he met personally Oct. 19 with Archbishop Williams, who had been told about the new arrangement a month earlier. In a letter to top Anglican leaders, Archbishop Williams said, “In the light of recent discussions with senior officials in the Vatican, I can say that this new possibility is in no sense at all intended to undermine existing relations between our two communions or to be an act of proselytism or aggression. It is described as simply a response to specific inquiries from certain Anglican groups and individu-

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als wishing to find their future within the Roman Catholic Church.” “For those who wish to enter into full communion with the Roman Catholic Church in the near future, this announcement will clarify possible options, and we wish them God’s strength and guidance in their discernment,” the Anglican leader said. Cardinal Levada also said Cardinal Walter Kasper, president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, had been informed about the pope’s decision. Asked Oct. 15 about the possible entrance of groups of former Anglicans into the Catholic Church, Cardinal Kasper said, “We are not fishing in the Anglican lake; proselytism is not the policy of the Catholic Church. But if there are people who, obeying their consciences, want to become Catholic, we cannot shut the door.” U.S. Archbishop J. Augustine Di Noia, secretary of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments and former undersecretary of the doctrinal congregation, spoke at the press conference with Cardinal Levada. “We have been praying for unity for 40 years. We find now that the prayers we have had are being answered in a way that we did not anticipate. So the Holy Spirit is at work here, and the Holy See cannot not respond,” the archbishop said. In 1993 the Catholic bishops of England and Wales asked the Vatican not to implement special structures for former Anglicans in their country, saying that the formation of Anglican-identity Catholic parishes would only further fracture the Christian community and would make the eventual unity of the

Catholic Church and Anglican Communion more difficult. Participants in the Anglican–Roman Catholic dialogue also have expressed concern in the past that the movement of Catholics to the Anglican Communion is making the Anglican Communion more liberal, whereas the movement of Anglicans to the Catholic Church is making the Catholic community more conservative. Archbishop Di Noia said, “The ecumenical movement has changed. There has been a tremendous shift” in the prospects for full, complete union. Many Anglicans already consider themselves to be Catholic, Archbishop Di Noia said, and the pope’s new initiative will make “explicit the bond that is already implicit.” In 1980 the Vatican made a special pastoral provision for members of the Episcopal Church, the U.S. province of the Anglican Communion, who wanted to become Catholic after Episcopalians began ordaining women priests. The provision included permission for entire parishes of former Episcopalians to use elements of their liturgy in the Catholic Mass. Archbishop Di Noia said only a handful of parishes took advantage of that special permission, and in 2003 the Vatican approved The Book of Divine Worship for their liturgical use. But he said many of those now seeking communion with Rome wanted a stronger affirmation of their Anglican heritage and a guarantee that it would continue to have a place in the Catholic Church, which is why the pope ordered the establishment of personal ordinariates. The number of ordinariates and their headquarters will be determined by the Anglicans continued on page 3

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