PITTSBU RG H
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Fall Events Guide
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Inside this issue: 6-7 | Helping children discover love of Christ:
Stephen Mahler found there was more to life after he graduated from college and joined the workforce, so he became a Catholic-school teacher.
8 | Faith, knowledge and service:
Catholic schools incorporate values of faith, truth and love, and pass them on to students.
11 | Strong foundations are important:
A priest becomes pastor of two additional parishes that include a regional elementary school.
12 | Why we need Catholic schools:
The Catholic Church operates the largest nongovernmental school system in the world.
14-15 | Celebrating 25 years:
Crossroads Foundation assists young people in attending quality Catholic high schools.
16-17 | Redefining perceptions of deafness:
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18-19 | Bridging hearing and deaf worlds:
When Danah Richter visited the Carlow University campus, she saw the same potential many students see when visiting the college that will become their academic home.
21-36 | Fall Events Guide:
A plethora of events and special features in southwestern Pennsylvania.
37 | C-JEEP bridges faiths:
The Catholic-Jewish Educational Enrichment Program begins its 13th year in diocesan Catholic high schools.
38-40 | Unique vacation Bible school:
St. Richard Parish provides a different VBS that incorporates crafts, games, songs and uplifting lessons about God’s love.
41-42 | Learning is a lifelong process:
The Seton Center provides a broad range of services and programming for the entire community.
DePaul School for Hearing and Speech helps deaf children transition to regular education classrooms.
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College costs yield a lifetime of paybacks to students.
47-48 | Ready for the next 50 years:
The first 50 years of La Roche College have prepared the school for the next 50 and beyond.
49 | On the front lines:
The acceptance speech for the Golden Apple Award, which symbolizes excellent performance in the classroom, church and community.
50 | Sharing the faith with others:
Catechists are a priceless gift to those they teach and an example and witness of God’s grace and truth.
52-53 | Teachers on teachers:
Three Catholic high school teachers reflect on teachers who had a great impact in their lives.
On the cover...
“While catechesis rightly begins in the home, there is great value in our Catholic schools. There is also great expense involved in this enterprise and, especially, great sacrifice. As we look to the challenges of the future, we will most probably have to ‘think outside the box’ and look for new ways in which our Catholic schools can continue to thrive. What those models might be and how we can best implement them in the Church of Pittsburgh remains to be seen. Yet, in meeting this challenge, it is a challenge in which I welcome support from all of you.” — Bishop David Zubik, “The Church Alive!” No. 94, June 2008 Cover design by Debbie Skatell-Wehner
Pittsburgh Catholic Excellence in Education Magazine is a complimentary publication available at all 200 Catholic parishes in the Diocese of Pittsburgh from the Pittsburgh Catholic Publishing Associates, Inc. Paid first-class delivered subscriptions are available. Advertising: ads@pittsburghcatholic.org • Editorial: editor@pittsburghcatholic.org Marketplace: www.pittsburghcatholic.org
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45 | Education values:
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Catholic MAGAZINE 135 First Ave. • Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15222 1-800-392-4670 www.pittsburghcatholic.org
Vol. 5, No. 2 Publisher | Bishop David A. Zubik General Manager | Robert P. Lockwood Editor | William Cone Operations Manager | Carmella Weismantle Excellence in Education Project Editor Chuck Moody Associate Editors Phil Taylor (Special Projects) Chuck Moody (News) Staff Writer | John W. Franko Graphic Designers David Pagesh | Karen Hanlin Advertising Director Carmella Weismantle Account Executives Michael A. Check | Paul Crowe Michael Wire Circulation Mgr./Parish News Coord. Peggy Zezza Administrative Assistant | Amanda Wahlen Office Assistant | Karen Hanlin
�
Excellence in Education 2013
Sunday - October 6, 2013
Noon—3 pm
Tour Our Beautiful Campus - Meet Faculty , Coaches and Student Leaders Experience Cutting Edge Technology - Discover Excellent Academics & Fine Arts
Did you know that Bishop Canevin students…
Each receive an iPad for educational & personal use for four years. Can earn up to 48 college credits while at BC. Have the opportunity to take online advanced courses for high school credit through the Jesuit Virtual Learning Academy. Received an average of $6.9 million per class in college scholarship offers for the past 5 years. Are actively involved (90% !) in 15Varsity Sports and over 35 student activities & clubs. Score consistently above the national & state SAT & ACT averages.
For more information contact Mrs. Marianne Reinhart, Vice Principal at 412-922-7400 x. 28 2700 Morange Road | Pittsburgh, PA 15205 | www.bishopcanevin.org
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Helping children discover love of Christ in their lives
By STEPHEN MAHLER “Is there more to life than this?” This question began resonating daily in my mind while working in the sales industry shortly after college. Even though I finally secured a stable position with an established company, I was still curious about a more fulfilling professional path. After graduating from Waynesburg University in 2003, I was convinced I was going to start a career in broadcasting. However, I found myself making phone calls instead of play-by-play calls. Don’t get me wrong. I was extremely grateful for having a job in such a difficult market, but I wanted to begin a career that would last the rest of my life. I spoke with my wife about making a career change, and she offered her full support, insofar as I went through a discernment process to discover my vocation and avoid a job-jumping scenario. I remembered hearing about discernment and vocation during my years at St. Paul Cathedral and Central Catholic High School, but I associated them only with the priesthood. As I’ve learned during the short time I’ve been married, my wife is usually right. So, I decided to embrace the method at the age of 27. I often contemplated the times in my life when I was the happiest and most fulfilled. Memories of attending St. Paul Cathedral and Central Catholic consistently pervaded my head and heart. The academic rigors came to mind, of course. However, the joy
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and peace of Christ being present in my relationships was most vivid, especially when I was serving others. The Catholic foundation I received at these schools acted as the primary
Stephen Mahler stands with a group of students he taught at St. Thomas More School in Bethel Park.
component in the development of my identity. I seemed to forget that during my pursuit of worldly successes after high school, and I am eternally grateful to my wife for reminding me that the presence of Christ is real, merciful and loving. Her example and guidance have helped me work toward becoming a man of Christ on a daily basis. It became evident throughout my discernment process that God created me to be a teacher. So, I pursued a master’s degree in elementary education at Indiana
University of Pennsylvania with great confidence and enthusiasm. During my studies and internship, God gradually revealed to me that all the things I had learned, experienced and accomplished were intended to be used to build relationships with children as they developed into young adults. Upon graduation from IUP, I pursued teaching positions in several public school districts. I made it to the final round of interviewing in all districts to which I applied, but I could not secure permanent employment. This was extremely frustrating at the time, but I came to understand that this was God’s way of guiding me to St. Thomas More School. My first couple of years at St. Thomas More have been challenging, but I have never been more fulfilled. As a language arts teacher, I use all of my experiences to help students develop communication skills and learn necessary academic content. As a Catholic, I integrate lessons of life and faith with academics in real, loving and relevant ways so that students feel comfortable asking questions of themselves, God and others. I am happy about helping children discover knowledge, but, more importantly, I am enthused about helping them discover the love of Christ in their lives. It is a joy and an honor to be in a position to provide children the opportunity to become young adults who serve the Lord and others. Mahler is a teacher at St. Thomas More School in Bethel Park.
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Catholic schools: Faith, knowledge and service By DR. MICHAEL LATUSEK
Schools incorporate values of faith, truth and love By Dr. ROBERT L. PASERBA Our country was forged on faith: faith that a nation could be founded not on nationality or ethnicity, but on a common vision and commitment; faith in a free people who, if given the opportunity, would ultimately choose to build a world that reflects God’s truth and love. This year’s theme for Catholic schools incorporates those ideas of faith, truth and love, expressed as “Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge and Service.” In our pursuit of knowledge, we often portray it as seeking the truth, and in deeds of service we are demonstrating our love of family, of neighbor, or community or country. From their very beginning, Catholic schools in America have nurtured that vision, providing the gift of faith to millions of students who shared this vision of helping to build a world rooted in justice, peace, compassion, moral rectitude and service to others. A Harvard University Press publication called “Catholic Schools and the Common Good,” describes the remarkable trait in Catholic schools of respecting the dignity of every student. The authors state that Christian “personalism” is one of the characteristics that make Catholic schools different. They write that personalism encourages staff to care about both the kind of people students become as well as the facts, skills and knowledge they acquire. Moreover, personalism is valued not only because it is an effective device to engage students in academic work, but also because it signifies a moral conception of social behavior in a just community. As such, personalism makes claims on human endeavors to act, beyond individual interest, toward a greater good. In western Pennsylvania, the Diocese of Pittsburgh continues that tradition. In order to serve and shape our school community, our parish community, our wider neighborhood community and our nation, our Catholic school students must be academically well prepared, and they are. They must be well rounded, with a strong sense of justice, compassion and service, and they are. Above all, they must be people of great faith, so we will continue to manifest “Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge and Service” that has been our gift to the nation for 185 years. (Reprinted from the July 19 issue of the Pittsburgh Catholic, Back to School supplement.) Paserba is diocesan secretary for Catholic education and evangelization.
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Each year, the Department for Catholic Schools publishes many reports and makes numerous presentations about the tremendous value of a Catholic education. We know that it takes great commitment and sacrifice from families, from the parishes, the diocese and the community to continue our Catholic schools, and we know that our efforts are worth it because we see continued success year after year in the positive impact of our graduates on the people around them as they move out into the world. Research tells us that they become active in their parishes, providing a high level of support. Further, they also become contributing members of their communities, implementing the values of caring, service and dignity of human life they learned at home and in our classrooms. As with our schools themselves, our graduates become examples of hope for the future, clearly illustrating this year’s theme from the National Catholic Educational Association, “Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge and Service.” These three elements are at the heart of Catholic education. Schools are a community, the small family that also belongs to the larger community of home, parish, city and country. Faith, knowledge and service are three standards by which any Catholic school can and should be judged. Faith comes first, because we know that the centerpiece of all our work is faith. Excellent academics and knowledge are important. But without faith, there is no reason for Catholic schools. And by every account, parents are choosing our schools because they teach strong moral values in a disciplined environment — clearly a recipe for helping all children in our schools achieve their highest potential. A basic tenet of our faith is service, to God, to family, neighbor and community. It is that lesson we learned as the golden rule “do unto others ...” A lesson that has been taught by more than 175 years of quality education, working to educate not only the mind, but the heart and soul as well. (Reprinted from the July 19 issue of the Pittsburgh Catholic, Back to School supplement.) Latusek is diocesan superintendent for Catholic schools.
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Fun Classes for Bright Kids! Kindergarten – 10th Grade Weekend and summer Programs (412) 268-1629 Ext. 1 www.cmites.org
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Strong foundations are important Photo by Peggy Pegnetter Father Jim Bachner blesses Bishop David Zubik during Father Bachner’s installation ceremony as pastor of St. Pius X Parish in Pittsburgh’s Brookline neighborhood.
By FATHER JIM BACHNER Strong foundations are very important things to have. I recently helped my brother to build a front porch on his house. I helped mainly with the roof. We carried the lumber, piece by piece, over our heads and put the pieces in place. The weight of all the lumber had to be several thousand pounds. What was holding all the weight from sinking was the concrete foundation poured almost 4 feet deep. Without this, the porch would end up leaning over time and probably collapsing at some point. Strong foundations are vitally important in our life as well. Growing up, I was given a great gift in eight years of Catholic grade school at St. Joseph in Mount Oliver. It rooted me in the understanding of my faith. My parents and grandparents also taught me a lot about the importance of the church and serving God. Receiving the Catholic education in school and having that education re-enforced at home set me on a solid path to becoming the person I am today. Having come from a family with seven siblings, being sent to a Catholic school was not an easy task for my parents. They had to make many sacrifices in order to pay tuition. My dad had an electrical background, and volunteered many hours at the church and school helping where he could to upgrade and fix any electrical issues in the parish. In return, the pastor was able to keep our tuition low. I went to a public high school and came to realize how different
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things were there, and it made me appreciate what I received at St. Joseph. I would return to Catholic education several years later when I felt God calling me to the priesthood. I entered St. Paul Seminary, and went to Duquesne University and later to St. Vincent Seminary in Latrobe. I became a priest in 1996. My first two assignments as a priest and parochial vicar happened to have schools: St. Athanasius in West View and St. Titus in Aliquippa. In both these assignments I was very involved in the schools and knew the kids by name. Knowing how my own family struggled to put eight children through Catholic school, I looked for opportunities to help families who were in this same situation. I would take the Mass stipends that I would receive each month and pick a few families to anonymously pay toward their education. I felt it is important to not only appreciate what I myself was given, but tried to do what I could to help others have these same wonderful opportunities of receiving a strong foundation in their faith through a good Catholic education. I am now the pastor of three parishes: St. Catherine of Siena in Beechview, and St. Pius X and Our Lady of Loreto, both in Brookline. I also have the partial responsibility of Brookline Regional Catholic School in Brookline and am chaplain at Seton-LaSalle High School. I thank God for all that he has given to me through what I have learned over the years, and I strive to give back to him what I have received. Father Bachner is a Pittsburgh diocesan priest
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Why we need Catholic schools
and effort to keep them? First and foremost, Catholic schools have been proven to be the best vehicles for passing on the faith.
SUCCESSFULL • FA ITHFUL • EXCE
By DR. RONALD BOWES It is important to know that the Catholic Church operates the largest non-governmental school system in the United States and the world. However, life would go on without Catholic schools, so why do we expend so much energy
LLENCE
In “Catholic Schools Make a Difference” by Dr. John Convey, the research is extensive and very revealing. Graduates of Catholic schools are more likely to practice their faith, receive the sacraments, be leaders in the church and more often place faith first in their lives. Catholic schools are also institutions of academic excellence. Students score well above the national norms on standardized tests. Graduates go on to higher education and are extremely successful in their chosen professions.
Business Insider magazine found that Catholic high school graduates earn a statistically significant 13.6 percent higher wage than other high school graduates. In addition, the student achievement gap is smaller than in other schools. Catholic schools, according to the late Father Andrew Greeley, are “the most effective institutions in the country in overcoming the effects of poverty, physical or spiritual, in young people.” The Rand Corp. reinforced this belief with a study that pointed out that African-American and Latino students are more likely to stay in school, graduate, and go to higher education and obtain a bachelor’s degree if they attend a Catholic school. This demonstrates the value Catholic schools have to the wider community. Plus, Catholic schools, with more than 2 million students, save the taxpayers millions of dollars since they are cost-effective and provide parents with a quality choice. Catholic school graduates are more likely to vote, are more tolerant and more civically engaged. It also has been determined that when a Catholic school closes in an urban area, the neighborhood declines and real estate values fall. The University of Michigan collected data over 12 years on Catholic school seniors. The study showed that these students expressed strong support for marriage and family values, community service, concern for others and commitment to church and country. They also demonstrated less at-risk behavior. Recently, Cardinal Timothy Dolan, a great advocate for Catholic education, called upon all Catholics to recommit themselves to the mission of Catholic education. He stated that “the truth is that the entire parish, the whole diocese and the universal church benefit from Catholic schools in ways that keep communities strong.” In Pittsburgh, we are blessed that our own Bishop David Zubik is a Catholic school graduate, former Catholic school teacher and administrator, and cherishes our Catholic schools. The bottom line here is that Catholic schools are a great gift to our church, our community and our country. We need Catholic schools because they are productive partners in educating children and youth. Everyone should be grateful they exist, and everyone should do all they can to keep them an integral part of the nation’s educational landscape. Bowes is diocesan assistant superintendent for public policy and development.
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n o i t a d n y u r o a s F r s e d v i a n o n r s Cros ebrates 25th a cel By Esther Mellinger Stief Crossroads Foundation, a nonprofit organization that assists young people in attending quality Catholic high schools, is celebrating 25 years of service during the 2013-14 academic year. Crossroads’ mission is to provide promising youth who have limited options access to a quality education by nurturing their academic and personal growth. More than 420 young men and women have successfully graduated from area Catholic high schools with assistance from Crossroads Foundation. Of those graduates, more than 96 percent have continued on to college.
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On Sept. 17, a Mass of celebration was to be held at St. Paul Cathedral in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood in honor of Crossroads’ 25th anniversary. Bishop David Zubik was to be the main celebrant, with Archabbot Douglas Nowicki, a longtime supporter of Crossroads, as a concelebrant. Crossroads scholars, parents and board members were to take part in the liturgy, and a choir of scholars, joined by the St. Benedict the Moor Gospel Choir, was to perform. A reception was to follow in the cathedral’s Fellowship Hall. Crossroads Foundation began because of the passion and commitment of a successful Pittsburgh businessman and his daughter, both dedicated champions of Catholic education. Many promising students who attended Catholic elementary schools could not afford the
tuition increase to high schools, and instead returned to their local public schools with a high risk of discontinuing their education completely. Crossroads founders received recommendations from religious working in several elementary schools to create Crossroads’ first class of 18 scholars, all of whom entered Catholic high schools as freshmen in the 1988-89 school year. The businessman, who wished to remain anonymous, committed to financially supporting the students’ education, his daughter began working with each student and the Crossroads Foundation began its work. Twenty-five years later, Florence Rouzier, executive director of Crossroads Foundation, reflected on and celebrated Crossroads success. “We aren’t just pausing to commemorate 25 years of existence, but to recognize 25 years of growth,” Rouzier said, “We
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Photos by Joshua Franzos
are reaching more students, offering new programs and partnering with more schools. Crossroads is meeting a clear need, and we have developed a strong model. The 25th anniversary celebration is really about the work of the board and staff, the strength of its holistic approach to education, and, of course, the potential and passion of our scholars.” Currently, Crossroads’ 117 scholars attend seven Catholic high schools in Allegheny County: Central Catholic, Oakland Catholic, Bishop Canevin, SetonLaSalle, Serra, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart and Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic. Incoming ninth-grade scholars are selected from 17 Catholic feeder schools after a rigorous application and interview process. This year, Crossroads welcomed its largest class, 35 ninth-grade scholars. St. Joseph Sister Sandy Kiefer has served with Crossroads Foundation for more than 24 years. “For me, Crossroads is about the relationships,” Sister Sandy said. “It is about accompanying the students and their families during the high school journey. “When I was a principal, my elementary students didn’t have these same opportunities to attend a Catholic high school and gain admission to college. Now, through Crossroads, I get to watch talented young people achieve their dreams.”
Mon Yough Catholic School
Where The Present Meets The Future Mon Yough Catholic School is a Catholic elementary school founded in 2012, as a merger between St. Joseph's Regional
Catholic School, established in 1984 and
St. Angela Merici School, established in 1961 with educational programs for children from pre-school through eighth grade.
We Teach, We Learn, We Grow! For information call 412.672.2360
1640 Fawcett Avenue – White Oak, PA
Mellinger Stief is manager of research and special projects for Crossroads Foundation.
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Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine 15
‘Building sandcastles, singing
A student and an adult share a laugh at DePaul School for Hearing and Speech in Pittsburgh’s Shadyside neighborhood.
songs and growing up deaf’
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By Lillian Rountree Lippencott and Nuelsi Canaan Jake Dyer is an active 4-year-old boy. He spent the summer riding his bicycle, catching fireflies, swimming and building sandcastles on the beach with his family. Jake seems like your typical 4-year-old. When Jake was born on a cold winter day in February 2009, he had the clearest blue eyes his mother had ever seen. A wisp of white hair above his forehead foretold that Jake would be special. In the weeks that followed, Jake was diagnosed with Waardenburg syndrome and profound bilateral hearing loss. Jake was born deaf. At just a few weeks old Jake came to DePaul School for Hearing and Speech in Pittsburgh’s Shadyside neighborhood with his mom, Becky, and his grandfather, Gabe. His mom cradled him gently in her arms as they met the team of teachers and speech therapists who would later teach Jake to listen and speak. This day would become a turning point in Jake’s life — it was the day that his parents realized that even though he was profoundly deaf, Jake had the potential to learn to listen and speak without using sign language. On that day at DePaul School, Becky and Gabe met other parents seeking answers to their questions and concerns about parenting a child who is deaf or hard of hearing. They visited classrooms where deaf children were learning to listen and speak. They met teachers and were touched by the gentle ways in which the teachers interacted with, encouraged and rewarded each child. Jake is now 4 1/2, and he speaks and hears so well that when you meet him you would not know that he is deaf. He has learned to use his two cochlear implants that enable him to hear, and he speaks like any typical 4-year-old. He is ready to participate in a regular preschool classroom alongside his peers who have typical hearing. Jake is just one of the 10 children who are transitioning from DePaul School to regular education classrooms this fall. Each of these children is deaf or hard of hearing and learned to listen and speak at DePaul School. DePaul provides Listening and Spoken
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can communicate independently and can participate fully in the hearing and speaking world. Jake and his family are members of St. Joseph Parish in New Kensington. Rountree Lippencott is director of outreach and development for DePaul School for Hearing and Speech and is a member of the Hearing Center Auxiliary of the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation. Canaan is DePaul School’s marketing manager and is a member of St. Regis Parish in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood. For more information about DePaul School for Hearing and Speech, contact Lillian or Nuelsi at 412-924-1012 or visit www.speakmiracles.org.
Two students interact at DePaul School for Hearing and Speech.
Language (LSL) therapy and education to children from birth to age 15. Children who participate in DePaul’s Toddler-Parent Program and Preschool Program, like Jake, typically transition to their neighborhood schools within four years. Children who are deaf or hard of hearing learn to listen and speak at DePaul School using access to sound provided by digital hearing aids or cochlear implants. A team of highly specialized teachers of the deaf, speech therapists and audiologists provide each child with an individualized education to meet that child’s unique needs. In small groups with a student-to-teacher ratio of 4:1, DePaul students receive a tremendous amount of individual attention. “Because of his school experience at DePaul, Jake has grown into such a mature and articulate child, inquisitive, eager to learn new things, and with a desire to learn new vocabulary and to become more expressive in communicating,” said his grandfather, Gabe. “What a wonderful three years. … He loves coming to school and will have a hard time leaving.” Jake and children like him are redefining perceptions of deafness. Jake is profoundly deaf, yet, with access to sound provided by his two cochlear implants, he is able to hear well enough to fully perceive speech, to listen to the stories that his mom reads to him before bedtime and to appreciate music. He is a talkative little boy and sings “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” as well as any of his friends who use their ears to hear. His life today looks very different than on that day he was diagnosed as deaf. Jake
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Carlow University helps student bridge hearing and deaf worlds
Danah Richter, a deaf student at Carlow University in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood, said her initial campus tour allowed her to see that she would be able to be part of the college community and the hope to succeed through all challenges.
By DREW WILSON When Danah Richter visited the Carlow University campus, she saw the same potential that many students see when visiting the college that will become their academic home for the next four years. “When I was on the campus tour at Carlow, I saw the ability to be part of the Carlow community, and that gave me a hope to succeed through all the challenges,” said Richter, who is from New Kensington, Westmoreland County. “I chose Carlow to give myself challenges and prepare myself for the real world after I graduate college.” However, the challenges Richter arrived at Carlow with are greater than those of the average college student, and the barriers to becoming part of the Carlow community were a good bit higher. “Communication and writing English as a second language are the most difficult things for me as a deaf student at a hearing college because no one knows how to communicate with my
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first language — American Sign Language — and writing in English was an extreme struggle for me to learn,” said Richter, who is a junior social work major. Students whose first language is ASL often have difficulty with Standard Written English. Despite the early struggles, Richter has found Carlow to be everything she thought it could be when she was on that campus tour. “Because of our roots and our Catholic heritage, we are welcoming to all,” said Siobhan DeWitt, campus minister at Carlow. “Catherine McAuley served everyone in the Dublin community when she founded the Sisters of Mercy. Through Carlow’s connection to the Sisters of Mercy and our Catholic heritage, we are here to serve everyone in our community.” Welcomed into the Carlow community, Richter has begun to excel. She has been named to the Dean’s List for the past two semesters. “Danah is a student who is dedicated to success,” said Bridget Ponte, director of the Center for Academic Achievement at Carlow University. “I believe she can accomplish anything that she puts her mind to.” One of the things Richter put her mind to is being better at comprehending and writing Standard Written English. As part of her studies, she took an independent study course for the past three years focused on Standard Written English for students whose first language is ASL. “(Communicating and writing English) was an issue that Danah recognized in herself,” said Jackie Smith, a writing consultant in the Center for Academic Achievement and the disability services representative at Carlow. “Danah has an amazing attention to detail and a mature self-determination. She is willing to ask for help and to help others when needed.” This willingness to both help and be helped has led Richter to being recognized as a leader beyond the Carlow campus. She was invited to participate as a “young leader” in the Pennsylvania Society for the Advancement of the Deaf conference in Pittsburgh in September and the National Association of the Deaf’s National Leadership Training conference in Omaha, Neb., in October. She has also been invited to participate in the second annual “Inspire Virtual Symposium,” an online conference at the University of Calgary in Alberta, Canada, for disabled students of varying abilities to present papers that challenge “ability expectations.”
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“I believe these conferences will teach me to advocate for Deaf people as well as to advocate for myself,” said Richter, who differentiates between “deaf” with a lowercase “d,” referring to the condition of being non-hearing, and an uppercase “D” that refers to the Deaf Culture. “I am hoping to learn about the leadership role in the Deaf community in the United States and also in international communities. Almost 29 million Deaf people live in America, and about 300 million Deaf people live in the world. Our ‘Deaf’ voices grow louder.” Being invited to represent Pennsylvania — and by extension representing both Carlow and Pittsburgh — is just one more step in helping Richter achieve her goals. “I always search for more challenges,” said Richter. “My next destination is
working with children with autism because I find autism to be a very interesting topic to work with. In five years, I hopefully might graduate with two master’s degrees: one in social work and a second in mental health counseling at Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. In 10 years, I hope I will be able to work with hearing and deaf children and deaf adults in mental health services and/or organizations.” If Richter’s academic career at Carlow is any indication, she is well on her way to achieving her goals. “Danah wants to bring Deaf Culture into the hearing world so more people will be able to understand exactly what it is,” Smith said. Wilson is director of media relations, university communications and external relations at Carlow University.
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PITTSBURGH
Catholic
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Social Events Festivals, dinners, craft shows, fund-raisers and more scheduled throughout the Diocese of Pittsburgh during the autumn months are listed below. NOW
THROUGH NOVEMBER FARMER’S MARKET
Saturdays, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m., St. James Parish, 200 Walnut St., Sewickley. Featuring more than 25 merchants and farmers. For more information, call Bob Jancart at 412-2624839.
SEPTEMBER 27-29 | FLEA MARKET
“Biggest flea market ever,” 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sept. 27, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sept. 28, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sept. 29, McDowell Hall of Epiphany Parish, 164 Washington Place (next to Consol Energy Center), Pittsburgh’s Uptown neighborhood. For information, call 412-471-0257, ext. 101.
28-29 | FESTA ITALIA Noon-9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, and noon-7 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 29, St. Michael Parish, 432 Center Ave., Butler. Highlights include Italian Village Shops, bakery, Ice Cream Parlor, rosary makers, youth activities, face painting, used book shop, wine tasting, biscotti contest, door prizes and more. A la carte menu on Saturday includes soups, salads, chicken cacciatore, chicken piccata, lasagna, stuffed shells, eggplant parmesan, beans and greens, pizza fritte, Italian love cake and much more. Spaghetti and meatball dinner on Sunday, with a cost of $8.50 for adults, $4 for children. Entertainment: Saturday, 12:30-3:30 p.m., Frank Palombi Band, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Vince’s Piano Quartet; Sunday, 1:30-6:30 p.m., John Gabriele on accordion.
30 | CENTRAL CATHOLIC GOLF OUTING Edgewood Country Club, 100 Churchill Road, Wilkins Township. Proceeds benefit Central Catholic High School in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood. To register, call Chuck Crummie at 412-208-3494.
OCTOBER 1 | VOICES CARRY CONCERT 6:30-10:30 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 p.m.), Stage AE, 400 North Shore Drive, Pittsburgh’s
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Villa Maria Market Barn to purchase seasonal produce, herb crafts, pumpkins, straw bales, corn stalks, and mums. The Villa Shoppe will be open to purchase purses, jewelry, baskets, books, scarves and more. There is free parking. For information, call 724-964-8920, ext. 3348.
5 | BLESSING OF ANIMALS North Shore. Show is a benefit concert for Auberle. Performers include Donnie Iris, Scott Blasey, Joe Grushecky, Rick Witkowski and Jeff Jimerson. Tickets are $125 for standing room, $200 for stadium seats. Auberle serves more than 2,900 at-risk children and families in southwestern Pennsylvania. Programs include residential care, foster care, emergency shelter, education, workforce development, mental health programs and much more. For tickets, visit www.auberle.org/voices-carry.
3-5 | NATIONALITY FOOD FAIR 4-10 p.m. Oct. 3, 4-11 p.m. Oct. 4, 3-10 p.m. Oct. 5, St. Malachy Parish, 343 Forest Grove Road, Kennedy Township. Featuring a large variety of nationality booths, including German, Italian, French, Mexican, Slovak and American. Also, gyro booth, pierogie kitchen and cookie patch. Entertainment includes Miller School of Dance, Slavic Dance Group, the Slovenian Folk Ensemble and more. Also, Chinese auction, bingo, Linens and Things, games and more.
4 | FOURTH ANNUAL ASSUMPTION GOLF OUTING 12:30 p.m. registration, 1 p.m. start time, Shannopin Country Club, 1 Windmere Road, Ben Avon Heights. Cost is $150 per golfer, $50 for dinner only. Proceeds benefit Assumption School in Bellevue. To register, call 412-9655343 or visit www.assumptionchurch.org.
11 a.m., St. Felix Parish, 450 13th St., Freedom.
5 | OKTOBERFEST & FLEA MARKET 3-7 p.m., St. Christopher Parish, 229 N. Franklin St., Prospect. Dinner is in church hall, while flea market is at festival grounds. Menu includes roast port, kielbasa, sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, potato pancakes, homemade applesauce, bread, dessert and drinks. Cost for dinner is $9.50 for adults, $5 for children ages 6-12 and free for kids 5 and under.
5 | NIGHT AT THE RACES 5 p.m., Family life education center of Risen Lord Parish, 3250 California Ave, Pittsburgh’s Marshall/Shadeland neighborhood. Menu includes spaghetti and meatball. Cost is $7, and includes dinner, entrance fee, snacks and set ups. For tickets, call 412-761-1507.
5-6 | RUMMAGE SALE 8 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday, 12:30-3:30 p.m. on Sunday, St. Aloysius Parish, 3616 Mount
Peanut Butter Gems
4 | OKTOBERFEST 6-10 p.m., St. James Parish, 200 Walnut St., Sewickley. Menu includes German potato salad, hot dogs, pork and beans, applesauce, German chocolate cake, sauerkraut, kielbasa and more. Cost is $10 for adults, $3 for children up to eighth grade, $5 for children in 8-12 grades. Also featuring children’s games, tractor rides, music and entertainment. Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus.
5 | HARVEST DAYS 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Villa Maria Community Center, 2105 Evergreen Road, Villa Maria. Featuring music, hay rides, Alpacas, guided nature walks, children’s activities, farm fresh food for sale, “famous” butternut squash soup, baked goods, vendors, demonstrations, gift basket raffle and more. Guests can visit the
Submitted by Marion Brooks North Side “I have been making these for 27 years. It is a great hit at bake sales. They taste like peanut butter cups.” Ingredients 1 cup oleo or butter 1 lb. powdered sugar 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs 1 cup peanut butter Mix these and press into 9/13 pan Melt 1 bag of chocolate chips and spread over peanut butter mixture Cool, cut into squares and refrigerate.
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Troy Road, Reserve Township. Featuring 18 rooms of treasures. For information, call 412821-3610.
9 | BREAKFAST BRUNCH BUFFET 9 a.m.-1 p.m., St. James the Apostle Parish, 4019 U.S. Route 422. Menu includes french toast, variety of pancakes, eggs, home fries, back, ham, fresh cinnamon rolls and much more. Sponsored by men’s group. Cost is $7 for adults, $3 for kids. For information, call 724-964-8602.
6 | PET BLESSING 1 p.m., front of church building of St. James Parish, 200 Walnut St., Sewickley. In honor of the memorial of St. Francis of Assisi, all pets will receive a special blessing.
6 | SUPER BINGO 2 p.m., St. Gregory Parish, 2 W. Beaver St., Zelienople. Cost is $25. For information, call 724-452-5798.
11-13 | ETHNIC FESTIVAL, Sullivan Hall and cafeteria of St. Mary of the Mount Parish, 115 Bigham St., Pittsburgh’s Mount Washington neighborhood. Festival
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highlights ethnic culinary tastes with American, Greek, Irish, German, French, Polish, Mexican and Italian food booths. Menu items include hot roast turkey, gyros, baklava, seasoned ham and cabbage, pierogies, spicy tacos, fajitas, tortellini, stuffed banana peppers and more. Also, games, raffle baskets, instant bingo, homemade bake goods, HD flat-screen television raffle and more. Entertainment; Friday, 7-8 p.m., magic man T.J. Hill; Saturday, 5-7 p.m., Glitter Dot and Dapper will provide face painting and balloons, 5-7 p.m., One Man Band Edwardo; Saturday evening Street Level Band will perform while patrons enjoy a steak dinner from 8 p.m.-12:30 a.m. The Grammynominated Henry & the Versa J’s will perform at 2 p.m. on Sunday. Also, Rankin’s Airbrush Temporary Tattoos will be available to offer tattoos everyday. For more information, call 412-381-0212, ext. 101, or visit www.smomp.org.
11 | FISH FRY 3-7 p.m., St. Cecilia Parish, 628 Virginia Ave., Rochester.
12 | FALL FLEA MARKET 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Father Conner Hall of Ascension Parish, 114 Berry St., Ingram.
12 | VENDOR AND CRAFT SHOW 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Family life education center of Risen Lord Parish, 3250 California Ave., Pittsburgh Marshall-Shadeland neighborhood. Featuring vendors from various companies, such as Premier Jewelry, Tupperware and more. Also, auction baskets and light refreshments.
12 | TEA “On With the Show,” 1-3 p.m., activity building of All Saints Parish, 19 Wilson St., Etna. Cost is $10, and includes variety of teas, tea sandwiches and desserts.
12 | HARVEST FESTIVAL 2-7 p.m., parish hall of St. Stephen Parish, 5115 Second Ave., Pittsburgh’s Hazelwood neighborhood. Features games, Chinese auction, Larry’s Treasures flea market, bake sale, food and more. Mass will be celebrated at 4 p.m. For more information, call 412-421-9210 or visit www.ststephen-hazelwood.org.
12 | 44th ANNUAL FOR GALA 6 p.m. (VIP reception), 7 p.m. gala, Father See Social Events, Page 24
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social events Continued from Page 23
Ryan Arts Center, 420 Chartiers Ave., McKees Rocks. Progam celebrates the generous spirit of profound impact of Father Regis Ryan and Focus on Renewal. FOR is a community center, food bank, library, arts center and much more. There will also be a private auction. For information, call Chris Crytzer at 412-771-6460, ext., 305.
13 | CARD PARTY CASH BINGO 2-5 p.m., social hall of St. James Parish, 4019 U.S. Route 422, New Bedford. Cost is $7, and includes lunch, door prizes and refreshments. For reservations, call 724-651-4959.
13 | SPAGHETTI DINNER 4-8 p.m., Benedict Hall on the campus of St. Winifred, 550 Sleepy Hollow Road, Mount Lebanon. Menu features spaghetti, meatballs, salads, dessert and more. Sponsored by women’s guild and men’s club. Cost is $10 for adults, $6 for children under 12. Tickets are reduced if purchased before Oct. 13. To purchase tickets, call 412344-5010.
14 | GOLF OUTING 10 a.m. registration, followed by lunch and a shotgun start team scramble at noon,
South Hills Country Club, 4305 Brownsville Road, Whitehall. Sponsored by St. Thomas A Becket Parish in Jefferson Hills. Master of ceremonies is Jim Krenn. Cost is $190 for a single, and includes range, golf, cart, lunch, dinner skill prizes and more. Foursomes and packages available at $760. Cost for dinner is $45 per person. To register, call Tim Veith at 412-655-7148 by Oct. 7.
17 | 48th ANNUAL PERU MISSION DINNER 6 p.m. (reception and presentations), 7 p.m. (dinner), Sheraton Station Square on Pittsburgh’s South Side. Featuring a special memorial tribute to Msgr. H. Jules Roos. For information, visit www.diopitt.org, or call 412-456-3085.
18 | ST. ANTHONY DINNER AND
AUCTION 5:30 p.m. (reception), 7 p.m. dinner and program, East Club Lounge in Heinz Field on Pittsburgh’s North Side. Featuring auctions and raffles. Cost is $150 each, or $1,500 for a table of 10. Proceeds benefit the students of St. Anthony School Programs. For information, visit www.stanthonykids. org, or call 724-940-9020, ext. 104.
19 | HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA Vendor/craft show, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., St. Fidelis Parish, 125 Buttercup Road, Meridian. Includes a variety of vendors and crafters. Amish doughnuts will be sold. For more information, call 724-789-7777.
19 | CRAFT SHOW 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Benedict Hall of St. Winifred Parish, 550 Sleepy Hollow Road,
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Fall Events 2013
Mount Lebanon. Sponsored by Women’s Guild. Also features bake sale, Chinese auction and more.
19 | OKTOBERFEST 5:30 p.m. dinner, dancing until 10 p.m., Frawley Hall of St. Valentine Parish, 2710 Ohio St., Bethel Park. Dinner buffet includes carved roast pork, brat or kielbasa, hot German potato salad, pancake with sour cream or applesauce, hot German red cabbage, apple crisp and more. Music provided by Ray Jay and the Carousels. Cost is $15, and must be purchased in advance. A Mass with polka music will precede dinner at 4 p.m. For information and tickets, call 412-835-4415.
20 | BINGO Father Rowan Hall of St. Mark Parish, 3210 Liberty Way, Liberty Borough. Cost is $20 for all-paper format. For information, call 412678-6275.
20 | OKTOBERFEST PORK ROAST DINNER 3-7 p.m., St. Norbert Parish, 2413 St. Norbert St., Pittsburgh’s Overbrook neighborhood. Menu includes pork roast or hot dog, sauerkraut, red cabbage, mashed potatoes and more. Entertainment will include a German band. Cost is $9 for adults, $5 for children under 12.
27 | OKTOBERFEST – A FALL FESTIVAL 1-3 p.m., parish center dining room of St. John Vianney Parish, 823 Climax St., Pittsburgh’s Hilltop neighborhood. Featuring pork and sauerkraut. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children 12 and under, free for children under 3. Dining room is handicap accessible.
26 | ARTS AND CRAFT SHOW 9 a.m.-3 p.m., O’Brien Hall and Pope Benedict Center (in former church building), St. Benedict the Abbot Parish, 120 Abington Drive, Peters Township. Featuring a variety of vendors, craft tables, basket raffle, homemade foods, baked goods and more. Note that the main access road, Valley Brook Road, is closed for construction on Route 19. Parish can be easily reached by taking Murray Road (at St. Clair High School) to Valley Brook Road or East McMurray Road (at Donaldson’s Crossroads). For information, contact 724969-0753 or 724-941-8979.
26 | CRAFT SHOW 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Siena Hall of St. Catherine of Siena Parish, 199 McGovern Blvd, Crescent.
26 | BINGO Doors open at 5 p.m., St. Januarius Parish, 1450 Renton Road, Plum Borough. Cost is $20 is purchased by Oct. 20, or $30 at the door. For tickets, call 412-793-4439.
26 | FALL FESTIVAL FOR CHILDREN 5-7 p.m., church hall of St. Mary Parish, 10 St. Mary’s Lane, Cecil. Children wear costumes and play carnival-type games. Also featuring food and costume contest for children ages newborn-10. Games are 25 cents per chance. Sponsored by parish’s youth group.
26 | HAUNTED HOUSE 6-10 p.m., Biedenbach Hall of St. Bernadette Parish, 245 Azalea Drive, Monroeville. Sponsored by youth group. Admission is free, but donations accepted. Baked goods will be available for sale.
NOVEMBER 2 | CARD PARTY Noon-3 p.m., Parish center dining room of St. John Vianney Parish, 823 Climax St., Pittsburgh’s Hilltop neighborhood. Sponsored by parish’s Christian Women’s Guild. Cost is $12.
2-3 | FLEA MARKET Holy Cross Parish, 905 Main St., East Pittsburgh. Featuring Christmas decorations, gardening supplies, furniture and more. Also selling hot dogs with sauerkraut, kielbasa, haluski and homemade baked goods. For complete information, call 412-823-8576.
3 | SPAGHETTI DINNER Father Rowan Hall of St. Mark Parish, 3210 Liberty Way, Liberty Borough.
3 | BREAKFAST BRUNCH BUFFET 9 a.m.-1 p.m., St. James the Apostle Parish, 4019 U.S. Route 422. Menu includes french toast, variety of pancakes, eggs, home fries, bacon, ham, fresh cinnamon rolls and much more. Sponsored by men’s group. Cost is $7 for adults, $3 for kids. For information, call 724-964-8602.
3 | SUPER TURKEY BINGO 11 a.m. doors open, family life education center of Risen Lord Parish, 3250 California Ave., Pittsburgh’s Marshall-Shadeland neighborhood. Turkeys will be awarded after each regular game. Cost is $25. Those who See Social Events, Page 26
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social events Continued from Page 25
purchase tickets before Nov. 1 will be eligible for a special raffle drawing. For tickets and information, call 412-761-1507.
3 | SPAGHETTI DINNER 1-6 p.m., Lourdes Center Dining Room of St. Bernadette Parish, 245 Azalea Drive, Monroeville. Cost is $8 for adults, $4 for children
3 | MUSIC PLUS CONCERT 3 p.m. St. James Parish, 200 Walnut St., Sewickley. Featuring organ and piano recital. A pre-concert at 2:30 p.m. will have the St. James Children choir perform “The Tale of Three Trees.” Free-will offering accepted. For information, call 412-741-6650.
9 | CRAFT SHOW 10 a.m.-2 p.m., activity building of All Saints Parish, 19 Wilson St., Etna. Featuring 50 crafters and vendors. Also selling barbecues, hot dogs, homemade soup, brownies and doughnuts.
9 | CRAFT SHOW 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Holy Trinity Parish, 5718 Steubenville Pike, Robinson Township.
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Featuring a variety of crafts, including Christmas theme gift items. Lunch will be available. There will also a Chinese auction and fresh baked good.
9 | 2 1st ANNUAL SPAGHETTI DINNER 5 p.m., church hall of St. Mary Parish, 10 St. Mary’s Lane, Cecil. For more information, visit www.stmarycecil.org.
9 | NIGHT AT THE RACES 5 p.m., St. Stephen Parish, 5115 Second Ave., Pittsburgh’s Hazelwood neighborhood. Cost is $15, and includes admission and dinner, $20 includes admission, dinner and horse. For tickets, call John Figlar at 412-521-2215, or the parish office at 412-421-9210. You can visit parish website at www.ststephen-hazelwood.org.
9 | OLDIES DANCE 7-11 p.m., Father John Oesterle Hall of St. Robert Bellarmine Parish, 1313 Fifth Ave., East McKeesport. Featuring music from the 1950s and 1960s with disc jockeys Frankie Day and Glenn Raymer. Cost is $15, and includes entertainment, beer, pop, mixers, snacks, ham barbecues, hot dogs,
beef stroganoff, pierogies and more. Tickets must be purchased in advance. To order tickets, call 412-824-2644, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. or call Joe anytime at 412-6732860.
10 | Super bingo 1-5 p.m., St. Robert Bellarmine, 1313 Fifth Ave., East McKeesport. Call 412-824-2644.
10 | SUPER BINGO 2 p.m., St. Gregory Parish, 2 W. Beaver St., Zelienople. Cost is $25. For information, call 724-452-5798.
23-24 | OLIVE WOOD GIFTS SALE Before and after all Masses, 5 p.m. on Saturday, 8 and 10 a.m., noon and 7 p.m. on Sunday, St. Bernadette Parish, 245 Azalea Drive, Monroeville. Initiative benefits artists from the Holy Land. For information, call 412-373-0050.
22 | TURKEY BINGO 6:30 (early bird), 7 p.m., cafeteria of St. James Parish, 200 Walnut St., Sewickley. Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus Queen of Peace Council 5367. Cost is $10. Win a turkey or chicken gift certificate.
Fall Events 2013
Spiritual and Educational Events Featuring adult education programs, retreats, Masses and other programs and services scheduled throughout the Diocese of Pittsburgh during the autumn months are listed below.
SEPTEMBER 24 | BIBLE STUDY A six-week Bible study on the Book of Genesis will be held on Tuesdays at 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. beginning Sept. 24 in the church hall of SS. Simon & Jude Parish, 1607 Greentree Road, Scott Township. Book and materials are $10. To register, call 412-563-3189, ext. 204. 26 | MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT DINNER 7 p.m., Gilmary Retreat Center, 601 Flaugherty Run Road, Findlay Township. A six-course dinner will be served, follow by a talk by Bob and Alice Bittner about marriage. Cost is $38 per couple. For reservations, call 412-264-8400. 27-29 | ICONGRAPHY WORKSHOP Friday evening, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday afternoon, Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish, 1700 Harpster St., Pittsburgh’s Troy Hill neighborhood. Students will write an icon of Our Lady of Sorrows on an 8x10 gesso-covered board. Cost is $120 and includes all supplies. To register, call 412-678-9453. 28 | TALK 10 a.m.-noon, Villa Maria Community Center, 2105 Evergreen Road, Villa Maria. Dr. Richard Clark will present “The Prevention of Genocide and Mass Atrocities in the Light of Catholic Social Teaching.” Cost is $7 for talk, $12 for talk and lunch. To register, call 724964-8886, or visit www.vmesc.org. 28 | YOUNG ADULT SYMPOSIUM 10:30 a.m., St. Paul Cathedral and Synod Hall, 108 N. Dithridge St., Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood. Program ends with Mass at 6 p.m., celebrated by Bishop David Zubik. To register, visit www.YAMPGHSeptember28. eventbrite.com.
OCTOBER 1 | PRESENTATION “Back to the Basics: Gospel Reflections,” 10 a.m.-noon, St. Joseph Spirituality Center, 1020 State St., Baden. Program is held the
Fall Events 2013
first Tuesday of the month from October through May. Donation is $10 a session. For information, call 724-869-6587 or visit www. stjoseph-baden.org. 2 | FATHER SEETHALER TALK “Joyful Reflections: Spiritual Supports for the Aging Process,” presented by Capuchin Father Scott Seethaler, 2 p.m., Schenley Gardens, 3890 Bigelow Blvd, Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood. A reception and information session will follow. To register, call 412-681-3812. 4-6 | WOMEN’S EMMAUS RETREAT Spiritan Center, 6230 Brush Run Road, Bethel Park. Retreat is designed to be low key and laid back. Participants will listen to other women talk about their journey to know more about God. Cost is $175, and includes your own room and meals. For information or reservations, call Barb Costello at 412-5961292 or Stacey Graham at 412-657-7955. 5 | ONE-WOMEN PLAY “Always in My Heart, the life of St. Marianne Cope,” 7 p.m., Scotus Hall at Mount Alvernia, 146 Hawthorne Road, Millvale. To purchase tickets, visit www.sosf.org. 6 | BREAKFAST AND PRESENTATION “Who are the Spiritans: Past, Present and Future,” 9 a.m. breakfast followed by presentation at 9:30 a.m., church hall of St. Stephen Parish, 5115 Second Ave., Pittsburgh’s Hazelwood neighborhood. The presentation will look at the history of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit, their missionary work and the current role of lay Spiritans. Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Program is free and open to the public. For information, call 412-4219210 or visit www.ststephen-hazelwood.org. 6-11 | RETREAT 7 p.m., through 10 a.m. Friday, Villa Maria Retreat Center, 2105 Evergreen Road, Villa Maria. Jesuit Father William Barry will present “Praying as Truth-Telling.” Includes conferences and time for quiet reflection. Cost is $375, and includes lodging, meals and conferences. To register, call 724-964-8886 or visit www.vmesc.org.
8, 15, 22 | ADULT EDUCATION SERIES “Building a Vibrant, Relevant Church: Insights from Vatican II,” 7-9 p.m., school art room of St. Bernadette School, 245 Azalea Drive, Monroeville. Presented by Sister of St. Joseph Marguerite Kropinak. Cost is $25. To register, call 412-373-0050. 9 | CREED COURSE “Creed: The Profession of Faith,” 9:30 a.m.-noon, Wednesdays through Nov. 13, St. James Parish, 200 Walnut St., Sewickley. Master catechists are Father Thomas Burke and Karen Conroy. Cost is $30. For information See Spiritual Events, Page 28
Cranberry Sauce
Submitted by Barbara Berchok, The Ascension of Our Lord Byzantine Catholic Church, Clairton “I have the best recipe for cranberry sauce. I had 10 guests for Thanksgiving in 2012 and doubled this recipe. I had very little remaining after dinner. This year I plan to triple the recipe so I can send some home with takeout bags for my guests, and then have some leftover for me on Friday (the real day of thanks for the cook).” Ingredients: 1 cup cranberry juice 1 cup sugar 1 12-ounce package of fresh cranberries, rinsed and drained 1 8-ounce bag of frozen raspberries, thawed, left whole Combine cranberry juice and sugar in medium saucepan. Bring to boil, add cranberries, return to boil. Reduce heat and boil gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cool cranberry mixture for 5 to 10 minutes. Gently stir in thawed raspberries. Thickens as it cools. One of the best features of this recipe is that it can be made a day or two before Thanksgiving and kept in the refrigerator.
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sPIRITUAL EVENTS Continued from Page 27
or to register, call 412-741-6650, ext. 503. 13 | ANOINTING OF THE SICK 11 a.m., St. Stephen Parish, 5115 Second Ave., Pittsburgh’s Hazelwood neighborhood. The sacrament of anointing of the sick will be administered at Mass, with a small reception to follow. For more information, call 412-4219210, or visit www.ststephen-hazelwood.org. 13 | ANOINTING MASS 1 p.m., St. Mark Parish, 1125 Romine Ave., Port Vue. 16 | GRIEF RECOVERY SUPPORT GROUP 7-9 p.m., St. Robert Bellarmine Parish
Center Lounge, 1313 Fifth Ave., East McKeesport. Conducted by professional grief counselor Dr. Barbara Coyne. Call 412824-2644. 18 | TALK BY IMMACULEE ILIBAGIZA 7 p.m., St. Ferdinand Parish, 2535 Rochester Road, Cranberry Township. See story on Page 36. 18-20 | FALL RETREAT FOR WOMEN 7:30 p.m., through noon Sunday, St. Joseph Spirituality Center, 1020 State St., Baden. Fee is $120, and includes meals, lodging and program materials. To register, call 724-8696587 or visit www.stjoseph-baden.org. 19 | DIOCESAN WOMEN’S CONFERENCE 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Wyndham Grand Hotel, Downtown Pittsburgh. Conference is titled
“Alive! in Prayer.” Anita Gutschick will give the keynote presentation titled “Praying With Women of the Bible.” Program will also feature a variety of conferences, including: “Waken, Worship, Welcome: Encountering God in Strangers” by Mercy Sister Marilyn Lacey; “Praying with Icons” by Franciscan Sister Rosaire Kopezenski; “Daily Devotions in a Digital Age” by Dorrie Donahue and Mimike Gareshe; and more. Bishop David Zubik will close the program with Mass. Cost is $45. For more information or to register, call 412-456-3129, or visit www.diopitt. org. The conference will be videotaped and uploaded on the website. 19 | MASS WITH POLKA MUSIC 4 p.m., St. Valentine Parish, 2710 Ohio St., Bethel Park. Following Mass is an Oktoberfest dinner and dance. For information, call 412-835-4415.
Better Than Potato Salad
Submitted by Patty Wildman of St. Valentine Parish in Bethel Park “Here’s a recipe for a new twist on the old standard potato salad. It looks like a regular potato salad, but it has its own unique taste, and it is quicker to make than regular potato salad. Family and friends are surprised how good it tastes. Be prepared to have copies of this recipe to pass out when bringing this to a potluck. It tastes great with holiday meals.” Ingredients 4 cups cooked long-grain rice 4 hard cooked eggs, chopped 1 medium cucumber, seeded and chopped. 2 cups thinly sliced celery ½ cup chopped onion 1 ½ cup mayonnaise 3 tbsp. prepared mustard ¾ tsp. salt In large bowl combine rice, eggs, cucumber, celery and onion. Combine mayonnaise, mustard and salt, mix well, then pour over rice mixture and toss. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour. Yields 12-14 servings.
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Fall Events 2013
26 | SYMPOSIUM 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Sister M. Ferdinand Clark Auditorium on the campus of UPMC Mercy, 1400 Locust St., Pittsburgh’s Uptown neighborhood. The Mercy Parish Nurse and Health Ministry Program is hosting the 21st annual Mercy Parish Nurse and Health Ministry Symposium titled “Weaving Prayer and Presence in Health Ministry.” Cost is $10 for ordained clergy, $30 for laypeople, $40 for registered nurses, social workers and licensed professional counselors, and includes brunch, free parking and continuing education credits. To register, call 412-232-5815, or visit www. pmhs.org. 26-30 | PARISH MISSION St. Robert Bellarmine Parish, 1313 Fifth Ave., East McKeesport. Conducted by Father Eugene Lauer. For information, call 412-8242644. 26 | DAY OF REFLECTION 9:30 a.m., Sisters of Divine Redeemer motherhouse, 999 Rock Run Road, Elizabeth. Father Peter West will discuss the pro-life issue. Cost is $30. To register, call 412-751-8600.
NOVEMBER 1-3 | DIRECTED RETREAT 7 p.m., through noon Sunday, St. Joseph Spirituality Center, 1020 State St., Baden. Led by team of spiritual directors. Cost is $120, and includes meals, lodging and individual direction. To register, call 724-869-6585 or visit www.stjoseph-baden.org. 1-3 | RETREAT 7 p.m., through 10 a.m. Sunday, Villa Maria Community Center, 2105 Evergreen Road, Villa Maria. Sister of Notre Dame Melannie Svoboda will present “Holiness is Wholeness.” Cost is $175, and includes program, lodging and meals. To register, call 724-964-8886 or visit www.vmesc.org. 3 | MEMORIAL MASS 9 a.m., St. Robert Bellarmine Parish, 1313 Fifth Ave., East McKeesport. Breakfast will follow Mass. 8-9 | MARRIAGE PREPARATION CLASS Friday evening and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday, St. Robert Bellarmine Parish, 1313 Fifth Ave., East McKeesport. Cost is $35. Call Mary and Dennis Gates at 412-823-1580. 9 | DAY OF REFLECTION “Looking for the Kingdom,” 9 a.m.-3 p.m.,
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15-17 | WORLDWIDE MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER Bishop Connare Center, 2900 Seminary Drive, Greensburg. Call 1-814-823-4600 or 412635-7775. 16 | PRE-MARRIAGE CLASS 8:15 a.m., social hall of St. Cecilia Parish, 628 Virginia Ave., Rochester. Presented by Capuchin Father Scott Seethaler. Cost is $70. To register, call 724-775-0801.
St. Joseph Spirituality Center, 1020 State St., Baden. Donation is $25, and includes lunch. To register, call 412-508-1623. 9 | DAY OF REFLECTION 9:30 a.m., Sisters of Divine Redeemer motherhouse, 999 Rock Run Road, Elizabeth. Carmelite Father James Hess will offer reflections on the Year of Faith. Cost is $30. To register, call 412-751-8600. 12 & 19, DEC. 3 AND 10 | ADULT EDUCATION 6:30-9:30 p.m., social hall of St. Cecilia Parish, 628 Virginia Ave., Rochester. Topic of class will be “Infancy Narratives.” Fee is $30. To register, call 724-775-2761.
20 | GRIEF RECOVERY SUPPORT GROUP 7-9 p.m., St. Robert Bellarmine Parish Center Lounge, 1313 Fifth Ave., East McKeesport. Conducted by professional grief counselor Dr. Barbara Coyne. Call 412-824-2644. 24 | ADULT ENRICHMENT PROGRAM 9 a.m. breakfast, 9:30 a.m. presentation, 11 a.m. Mass, St. Stephen Parish, 5115 Second Ave., Pittsburgh’s Hazelwood neighborhood. Gospel of Matthew is the subject. To register, call 412-421-9210, or visit www.ststephenhazelwood.org. 24 | YOUNG ADULT MASS 9 a.m. St. Robert Bellarmine Parish, 1313 Fifth Ave., East McKeesport. Led by youth group, young people will present what they are thankful for.
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ROAD TRIP: GETTYSBURG MARKING 150 YEARS
CNS photo/Chris Heisey, The Catholic Witness The sun casts the shadow of a statue of a Civil War soldier on a barn in Gettysburg, Pa. The barn is a re-creation of one owned by a free African-American named Abraham Bryan and destroyed along with his other property during Pickett’s Charge July 3, 1863, the last day of the Battle of Gettysburg. This year America marks the 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War.
By Peggy Zezza Road trips are always a great way to experience the colorful sights of the fall season. With its hills and trees filled with their array of colorful leaves, Pennsylvania is a beautiful sight to behold in the autumn. This past July marked the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg. With the 150th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s historic Gettysburg address approaching (Nov. 19), a great road trip to take this fall is to historic Gettysburg, Pa. Events have been planned throughout the year to mark this milestone. If you have not visited the area, now is a good time to take that 3-½ hour road trip. Coming from the west in and around Pittsburgh, you would head east on the Pennsylvania Turnpike (Interstate 76) to the Gettysburg Exit (236). Then follow U.S. Route 15 South to any Gettysburg exit. Of course, there are alternative scenic and longer routes, including following Route 30 East. In planning your trip, you will discover there is a variety of things to do in and around Gettysburg. Aside from the historic sites,
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there are winery tours, orchards, festivals and much more. Having so much to do, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. The top of any visit to this area would be Gettysburg National Military Park operated by the National Park Service and the Gettysburg Foundation. The Battle of Gettysburg was the bloodiest battle of the Civil War, with 51,000 casualties. The park educates visitors on the gravity of this significant battle in American history. Museum and Visitor Center Visitors should begin the park tour at the National Park Service Museum and Visitor Center, located at 1195 Baltimore Pike. This newly renovated museum houses relics of the battle and interactive exhibits. You can view the renowned film “A New Birth of Freedom,” which gives visitors a historic understanding of the significance of the battle. One of the highlights of the center is the restored Gettysburg Cyclorama. Designed by French artist Paul Philippoteaux, this oil painting is the country’s largest, being longer than a football field and as tall as a four-story building. The
painting provides a truly unique perspective while placing visitors in the middle of Pickett’s Charge (the final Confederate assault on July 3, 1863). Visitors also will find a gift shop and an array of information about visiting the park grounds. Operating hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 1-March 31, and 8 a.m.-6 p.m. April 1-Oct. 31. On average, visitors spend at least 3 ½ hours in the museum alone. Battlefield The park service offers a number of battlefield tours. You can tour in your own car with a licensed battlefield guide, or take a bus tour with a guide. There are also self-guided tours and tours on CD, which can be found in the visitor center’s bookstore. Different commercial bus companies also offer park tours. The park is open from 6 a.m.-10 p.m. April 1-Oct. 31, and 6 a.m.-7 p.m. Nov. 1-March 31. Soldiers National Cemetery Within the National Military Park is the Gettysburg National Cemetery, the final resting place of 3,500 Union soldiers who
Fall Events 2013
Gettysburg, PA July 7th Re-enactors at the 150th anniversary of the American Civil War
Stuffed Mushrooms died in the battle. The Soldiers National Cemetery is a solemn site that gives visitors an opportunity to pay respect to all the young men who died fighting for a cause they believed in. The cemetery is also the location where President Abraham Lincoln delivered his profound “Gettysburg Address,” on Nov. 19, 1863 — 150 years ago. The cemetery opens at dawn and closes at sunset. David Willis House To understand the aftermath of the battle, it is recommended that visitors see the David Willis house, which is operated by the park service. It is located at 8 Lincoln Square in the heart of the historic district. The place tells the story of the battle’s aftermath, how the national cemetery was established and details on how Willis requested Lincoln to make a few remarks at the cemetery dedication. You can see where Lincoln finished writing the famous Gettysburg address, learn about the design of the cemetery and receive information on the dedication ceremony. For more information, call 1-866-486-5735. The David Willis House operates all year long, with reduced hours in the off-season. For in-depth about all the places operated by the National Park Service, visit www.nps. gov/gett or http://www.gettysburgfoundation. org/. 150th Anniversary Nov. 19 marks the 150th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg address. As it is every year, the anniversary will be marked with a dedication ceremony in Soldiers National Cemetery from 9 a.m.-noon. As of
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this writing, plans were not complete, but a prominent speaker will address the crowd and again the Gettysburg address will be recited. The ceremony is free and open to the public. For updates, call 1-717-338-1243 or visit www. lincolnfellowship.org. Even though the dedication ceremony will be held on Nov. 19, the date of the annual Remembrance Day Parade was changed to the weekend of Nov. 23 to accommodate the larger crowds expected for the 150th anniversary year. The parade features dressed military re-enactors who march in military units throughout the city. Festivities for the See Gettysburg, Page 32
Mike and Amanda Wahlen of Pittsburgh’s Green Tree neighborhood pose with a statue of Abraham Lincoln outside the new Visitor’s Center in Gettysburg.
Submitted by Margaret M. La Grosse St. Titus Parish, Aliquippa 24 large mushrooms with stems removed Filling: ½ pound ground sirloin ¼ cup onions, chopped 2 large cloves of garlic, minced ¼ cup green pepper, chopped 3 slices bacon, cut in small pieces Brown above ingredients, drain and put in a bowl. Add the following: ¼ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs ¼ teaspoon parsley ¼ teaspoon sweet basil Salt & pepper Squeeze the filling together with your hands, and if the filling is not sticking, add one raw egg. Wash mushrooms well. Spray cookie sheet, then set mushrooms on sheet. Put a large tablespoon full of filling in each mushroom, until mushroom is overflowing. Bake in oven at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes, or until brown.
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GETTYSBURG Continued from Page 31
weekend also include at least four Civil War balls. Other sites Other sites to visit while in Gettysburg that are listed as visitor favorites include the following: The Gettysburg Museum of History, located at 219 Baltimore St. The museum houses more than 4,000 artifacts. The items in the museum range from a lock of George Washington’s hair, President Lincoln’s wallet, relics from Pickett’s Charge, photos, weapons and much more. For information, call 1-717-337-2035, or visit www. gettysburgmuseumofhistory.com. Shriver House Museum, 309 Baltimore St. The museum is dedicated to the civilian experience during the Civil War. It takes you back in time to the life of the Shriver family during the Civil War. The house appears almost the same as when it was built in 1860. Visitors can view four floors of history. For information, call 717-337-2800, or visit www. shriverhouse.org.
Jennie Wade House Museum, 548 Baltimore St. The popular museum is dedicated to the memory of the only civilian killed during the three-day battle. The house can be toured from attic to basement. It details the fatal moment when 20-year-old Jennie was killed in her sister’s kitchen while kneading bread. For information, call 717-3344100, or visit http://jennie-wade-house.com/. This is just a small list of the many things to do in this historic area. There are taverns, old-time photo shops, Gettysburg College, lots of museums and more. For ghost hunters, Gettysburg is considered one of the most
haunted American towns, and visitors can find package ghost tours all around town. For an in-depth look at all Gettysburg has to offer, the best source of information is the Gettysburg Convention and Visitor’s Bureau. The website is www.gettysburg.travel. Since this is the 150th anniversary year, the bureau can also help with lodging. For lodging information, call 1-800-337-5015 MondayFriday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Zezza is circulation manager and parish news coordinator for the Pittsburgh Catholic. Amanda Wahlen contributed to this article.
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Fall Events 2013
Create Memories
Families can create a new holiday memory while supporting vital services to children in our community at Pittsburgh Mercy Health System’s 10 th annual Reindeer Ball. The ball will be held on Sunday, Dec. 1, from 4-7 p.m. at the Westin Convention Center Pittsburgh Hotel, located at 1000 Penn Ave. in Downtown Pittsburgh. Dressed in their holiday finest, children and their families can mingle with some favorite characters and storybook friends, including Cat in the Hat, Bad Kitty, Geronimo Stilton, Curious George and Clifford the Big Red Dog. New York Citybased entertainment company RWS Productions will perform a holiday revue titled, “Christmas in Oz.� The Reindeer Ball benefits Pittsburgh Mercy Health System child and adolescent services, which empowers children and their families to overcome barriers and lead healthy, successful lives in the community. PMHS offers an array of valuable community based mental health, child and adolescent crisis diversion and acute stabilization, partial hospitalization, residential, service coordination, behavioral health rehabilitation and school-based prevention, assistance and intervention services. Tickets are $100 per adult, and $50 per child, and include both a child friendly and adult buffet. Tickets must be purchased in advance. To purchase tickets, visit www.pmhs.org/events. For more information, call 724-934-3537 or e-mail Development@mercy.pmhs.org.
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Rock-A-Thon
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Fall Events 2013
There will be a lot of “rockin” going on at Little Sisters of the Poor. The sisters are hosting a “rock-a-thon,” the same concept as a walk-a-thon, except instead of walking, participants rock in a rocking chair for pledges. Participants of all ages are welcome to rock an hour or more. The rock-a-thon will be held on Saturday, Oct. 12, from noon-4 p.m., at the Little Sisters James P. Wall home for the elderly, located at 1028 Benton Ave. in Pittsburgh’s Brighton Heights neighborhood. Rockers who raise the most in sponsorships will receive a $100 Visa gift card. In addition to the rockers, there will be performances by North Star Kids and Elvis impersonator Don Obusek. The menu of food items to be sold includes “rocking” tacos, hot dogs, French fries and cake walks. Those wishing to rock should call 412-307-1268 by Oct. 4 to receive a pledge form and register, or visit www.littlesistersofthepoorpittsburgh.org. All rockers raising $100 or more will receive a free T-shirt. Proceeds will benefit the Winter Fuel Fund to help keep residents warm. Volunteers are also needed. To volunteer, call 412-307-1268 or e-mail adevpittsburgh@ littlesistersofthepoor.org.
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Speaking this fall at St. F erdinand P arish Immaculée Ilibagiza
St. Ferdinand Parish in Cranberry Township invites the public to meet author and genocide survivor Immaculée Ilibagiza when she comes to speak at the parish on Friday, Oct. 18 at 7 p.m. Ilibagiza is a survivor of the Rwandan genocide of 1994. Now an American citizen and author, she works for peace throughout the world. Ilibagiza will share her miraculous story of how she and seven other women huddled silently together in a cramped bathroom of a pastor’s house for 91 days to survive. She will also discuss and show how to embrace the power of prayer, forge a profound and lasting relationship with God and discover the importance of forgiveness and the meaning of truly unconditional love and understanding
through our darkest hours. Some of her books include: “Left to Tell: One Women’s Story of Surviving the Rwandan Holocaust”; “The Boy Who Met Jesus: Segatashya Emmanuel of Kibeho”;
“Our Lady of Kibeho: Mary Speaks to the World from the Heart of Africa”; “The Rosary: The Prayer that Saved my Life”; and “Sowing the Seeds of Forgiveness: Sharing Messages of Love and Hope after the Rwandan Genocide.” The event is free, but tickets are required for admission. A free-will offering will be collected. To reserve your space, call the St. Ferdinand religious education office at 724-776-9177, ext. 313, or e-mail bonnie@ stferd.org. For more information about Immaculée, go to www.Immaculee.com or www.lefttotell.com.
Caramel Corn
Submitted by Marie Pucalik, Mayport, Pa. “This is a favorite among the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth (formerly Vincentian Sisters of Charity) at St. Louise Convent on McKnight Road.” Ingredients: 2 bags of “Hulless” puffed popcorn Put in large roaster pan. Sauce: Put in saucepan: 1 cup butter 2 cups brown sugar ½ cup white Karo syrup Bring to boil and simmer for 5 minutes on low heat. Remove from heat and quickly stir in 1 tsp. baking soda. Carefully pour over popcorn and stir. Bake at 250 degrees in the oven for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. Place two large sheets of foil on the counter and pour popcorn onto the foil. Break apart and let cool. Store in airtight container and enjoy!
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Fall Events 2013
C-JEEP bridges faiths
By DR. EDWARD G. SCHEID The Catholic-Jewish Educational Enrichment Program begins its 13th year in the Catholic high schools of the Diocese of Pittsburgh this fall. Started in 2001 through the generosity of the American Jewish Committee, C-JEEP brings a “visiting rabbi” from the Pittsburgh area into each school to teach about Jews and Judaism. Following a curriculum agreed upon by the diocesan Department for Religious Education and the Pittsburgh Area Jewish Committee — current sponsors of C-JEEP — the rabbis teach Catholic high school students about how local Jews believe, worship and live their religion. “The program addresses questions that are important to teens and helps to break down stereotypes,” said Susan Simons, PAJC co-coordinator for C-JEEP. “C-JEEP has been very successful in building bridges of understanding and mutual respect” among students and the rabbis. The interaction is instructive on a number of important levels. “Students encounter a local religious leader not of their own faith helping them to be more aware of their surroundings,” said Chris Chapman, co-coordinator on the Catholic side. “They learn about the deep Jewish roots of the Catholic faith,
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and they begin to learn how to listen to and dialogue with a knowledgeable person of another religion.” C-JEEP emphasizes what Catholics and Jews have in common, including our common humanity as created by God. “The rabbis explain the common roots of the two faiths,” said Deborah Fidel, former director of PAJC, “but most importantly, the C-JEEP experience embodies the importance of seeing each individual as having been created b’tzelem elohim (in the image of God) and how that compels us to respect others, regardless of their religious affiliation.” From a Catholic perspective, C-JEEP is possible because of the teachings of the Second Vatican Council and the example of the recent popes. “In 1965, the church began a dialogue with non-Christian religions and made the point very strongly that we Christians cannot understand ourselves without understanding our brothers and sisters, the Jews,” said Tim Crossen, religion teacher at Serra Catholic High School. Said Fidel, “the C-JEEP program helps students understand and live out the values articulated so beautifully by Pope John Paul II and held dear by Pope Francis concerning Catholics’ relations with their Jewish friends, relatives, neighbors and co-workers.”
Students find C-JEEP a memorable learning experience. For Nick Navari of Aquinas Academy it was the discussion of Jewish holy days: “It was very interesting to learn how they celebrate the holidays, and then compare it to how we celebrate ours.” For Jordan Dank of Seton-LaSalle High School it was the lesson on the Hebrew language and Hebrew names: “Not only did I learn the basics of Hebrew, but also the significance of my name and my friends’ names.” The rabbis also are willing to take their classes on a field trip to their synagogues. “Everywhere we walked through was decorated absolutely beautifully,” said Erin Gilboy of St. Joseph High School regarding her visit to Beth Shalom Congregation in Pittsburgh’s Squirrel Hill neighborhood. “All of the paintings and artifacts we saw in great detail so we could see the religious meaning.” For 12 years, C-JEEP has been one of the jewels of Catholic high school education, helping Catholic students understand and respect the meaning of Judaism. Simons summed it up: “PAJC’s hope is that C-JEEP will continue to give the students knowledge and skills that they will use as future leaders in their communities.” Scheid is a secondary education consultant in the diocesan Department for Catholic Schools.
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Parishioners from St. Richard Parish in Richland Township who took part in a unique vacation Bible school pose for a photo with Father Tom Sparacino, pastor, fourth from right, and seminarian Michael Conway.
Unique Vacation Bible School By ANNIE McKENNA Vacation Bible school evokes summer memories of crafts, games, songs and uplifting lessons about God’s love. St. Richard Parish in Richland Township recently provided a very unique VBS that incorporated all of those elements and more. Maranatha — Aramaic for “Come Lord Jesus” — highlighted Pittsburgh religious orders, including Franciscans, Little Sisters of the Poor, Spiritans, Missionaries of Charity, Benedictines, Passionists and diocesan priests. More than 100 children and their families were introduced to our rich religious vocations in this fun and exciting program. Written by local mothers Natalie Donaldson, Annie McKenna and Victoria Sheridan, Maranatha emphasizes the vocational heritage of the Diocese of Pittsburgh and incorporates our rich Catholic faith — adoration, confession and the holy Mass — into the schedule for the week. The program stays the same every year, with reusable decorations and lesson plans making it simpler and more cost-effective than other VBS programs. Maranatha is modeled after a similar program in use for more than 25 years in the Archdiocese of Atlanta. Can you imagine — a VBS program that can be used and reused for 25 or more years? The Atlanta program, Kaleidoscope, focuses on the rich cultural diversity in Atlanta — the children learn about Catholicity around the world. Maranatha, however, embraces the many religious orders that surround our city. Participants become aware of religious life and potentially their call to religious life or the priesthood. So, what makes Maranatha different? The children are divided by age/grade level and each year move through the program, learning themed lessons and age-appropriate crafts that are specific to a religious order. Thus, the program can be repeated year after year.
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For example, the 4-year-old class enjoys Christmas in July. Their room is decorated for Christmas. The elaborate decorations can be used and reused every year, saving money and time. The decorations, designed by Wendy Hendricks, transform a child’s room into something unique and special to them. The ‘Franciscans’ learn all about St. Francis and his role in introducing the Christmas Nativity scene. Their crafts include making ornaments and bird feeders, just like St. Francis would have fed the birds, an Advent wreath and learning the first three joyful mysteries of the rosary (Annunciation, Visitation, Nativity). Many of the catechists return each year to teach the same class, thus becoming an “expert” on their lessons, and they can make changes to improve on the content or crafts. This vacation Bible school actually becomes easier each year, and volunteers look forward to returning. Maranatha creates an environment where learning about religious orders is fun and exciting. The Benedictines in third grade embrace the monastic life as they spend a week in the Benedictine monastery. They learn about the monastic life, the Rule of St. Benedict and his twin, St. Scholastica, and the Divine Office. The children create illumination bookmarks, made as a gift for the prison ministry, and design a cross with a clay corpus. The Passionists in fourth grade enter the Upper Room, or Cenacle, where the passion of Christ begins with the Last Supper. The class focuses on the Last Supper, agony in the garden (Eucharistic adoration), crown of thorns and crucifixion. The children design a monstrance, make a garden prayer jar and crown of thorns to remind them of their week’s journey. See Bible school, Page 40
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Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine 39
BIBLE SCHOOL Continued from Page 38
A highlight of the program is the many special guests that come to share their religious life with the children: Franciscans (Third Order Regular sisters and Sisters of St. Francis); Little Sisters of the Poor; Spiritans; Missionaries of Charity, represented by Father Joe Freedy, diocesan vocations director, who worked with the missionaries in Ethiopia; Benedictines; Passionist; and diocesan priests. The children’s excitement is contagious when a “real live” Passionist or Little Sister of the Poor enters the room. The week is abuzz with men and women in clerics and habits sharing their vocation stories. The program also offers a unique opportunity to experience the sacraments. The children enjoy going to confession (diocesan priest class) and Eucharistic adoration (Passionists and others), and the entire week is closed with the Mass in thanksgiving of our Catholic Church. After a week of lessons, meeting new people, games, skits, crafts, music and the Mass, the community gathers together for a family picnic. If you are curious about the program, or perhaps are interested in starting Maranatha at your parish, contact me at mckennas97@yahoo.com for more details. McKenna is a parishioner at St. Richard Parish in Richland Township.
More than 100 children and their families were introduced to religious vocations during vacation Bible school at St. Richard Parish in Richland Township.
Planning to celebrate the Sacrament of Marriage or a 50th Anniversary in the next six months? Celebrated the Sacrament of Marriage or a 50th Anniversary in the past six months? Share your joyful announcement with the rest of the Diocese of Pittsburgh in the Pittsburgh Catholic’s full-color Wedding Guide to be released in February 2014! Send your color photograph and a 110 word announcement postmarked on or before Friday, January 24, 2014, to:
Wedding Guide, Pittsburgh Catholic, 135 First Ave., Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15222-1513 or e-mail khanlin@pittsburghcatholic.org.
For questions, call Karen at 412-471-1253, Ext. 3570. Hard copy photos will be returned to those providing a self-addressed stamped envelope.
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Excellence in Education 2013
Seton Center: L earning is a lifelong process
Children and senior citizens interact at the Seton Center for Intergenerational Programming in Pittsburgh’s Brookline neighborhood.
By EUGENE KAIL The official title of the organization in Pittsburgh’s Brookline neighborhood is “The Seton Center for Intergenerational Programming,” and it certainly lives up to its title, providing a broad range of services and programming for the entire community. While the heart of the program is “intergenerational” — participants range in age from 6 weeks to senior citizens — the outcomes are often “educational.” This is not remarkable, given its “roots” (e.g. its home in the former Elizabeth Seton High School, its beginning years as a preschool program, and its origin as a ministry of the Sisters of Charity of Seton Hill, long known for their commitment to education). There is always something happening. When asked to name all of the activities and programs available, Sister Barbara Ann Boss, executive director, took a quick glance at the marketing brochure. “We continually add great new programs, and I don’t dare miss one,” she said. When she provided a complete list, there were three sites and the following
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activities: • A child care department with infant and toddler care, pre-K and an afterschool program (utilizing the Pennsylvania Learning Standards). • Adult day care. • A senior center providing activities such as exercise, workshops on health and wellness, cooking classes, field trips, special presentations, and recreation and relaxation with friends. • The ombudsman program acting as advocates for the elderly. • The Seton arts program, including music instruction in violin, guitar and piano. A collaboration with the Heritage Players Theatre Group provides classes in acting, dance and musical theater for children and adults. The obvious question is: What is “intergenerational programming,” and how does it relate to “excellence in education,”
the theme of this issue of Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine? Essentially, Seton Center subscribes to the philosophy that life and learning are intertwined, that learning enriches
life at all stages, and that people from various generations have much to share. The center takes it as its mission to foster opportunities for these things to happen, making possible a sort of “lifelong learning in action.” The heart of all of this is, of course, See Seton, Page 42
Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine 41
seton
Continued from Page 41
the interaction among the generations. Adults and young members share their insights and experiences, wisdom, traditions and life experiences, often while reading stories, cooking together and sharing friendships. While most of the data concerning educational growth is anecdotal, the growth is real. The outcomes are obvious in the recitals given by the music students or the performances with the Heritage Players. And the question of “excellence� — likewise anecdotal and experiential in general — is reinforced by objective standards as well. Seton Center consistently scores high on all inspections and evaluations performed by the agencies regulating its programs and activities. One of the unique elements underlying the Seton Center approach involves the partnerships established by the center, each of which enriches programming and supports educational excellence. In addition to the music lessons and Heritage Players, there is a set of more formalized partnerships. These include:
A child talks with an older adult during meal time at the Seton Center.
• The Silver Sneakers exercise program for seniors. • Pre-K Counts, a program to prepare youngsters for kindergarten. • The STARS initiative to create quality programs in early childhood education. The Seton Center is not a �school,�
but learning occurs there. It does not rely on formal classrooms, yet it places no age limits on education. Perhaps its motto says it best: Seton Center is “Life in Progress.� Kail is a board member of the Seton Center.
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42 Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine
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Excellence in Education 2013
Excellence in Education 2013
Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine 43
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Excellence in Education 2013
By DR. CHARLES J. DOUGHERTY It would be beyond arrogant to hold that a university education is a necessity for leading a good life. We have Jesus Christ and generations of Christians as counterexamples. American Catholics themselves are just a few generations away from their immigrant forebears, most of whom lacked not only college educations but in many cases high school and even grade school educations. And we all have friends and relatives leading good lives without college educations. There are even several high-profile examples of financially successful entrepreneurs without university degrees. A contemporary college education is also costly. From academics to athletics, fund-raising to legal issues, university education is inherently costly. Moreover, the expectations of universities keep rising. Parents expect the best facilities and personal attention from administration and staff — the best of high tech and high touch. Students expect the best in teaching and in residential facilities. Faculty expect the latest in research support. Employees expect competitive salaries and wages. Communities expect university programs that make a difference for them. These costs have led to higher student indebtedness for college education than ever before. If college is not necessary for a good life and it costs so much, many are drawn to an inevitable question: Is a university education worth it? There is probably not a fair answer to this question in general, given the variety of university settings, costs and prospects for those who graduate from them. But I can answer the question for Duquesne
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University with a resounding “Yes.” And the same positive response would be true for the majority of Catholic universities. Despite the cost of a college education, financial studies have consistently shown that a degree from a reputable university such as Duquesne more than pays for itself over a lifetime. In other words, there is a considerable return on investment. This is intuitively obvious if you think of the careers opened by a college degree and the earnings associated with them. The average indebtedness of Duquesne undergraduates at graduation, for example, is comparable to the purchase of a new car. But a new car is a short-term investment. A university education is an investment for the long term — for a life and a career. Of course, tuition at Catholic universities is high. The days when costs could be subsidized by the voluntary labor of large numbers of priests and nuns are long gone. Most Catholic universities get little to no public assistance. We have to make ends meet on our own — with the support of alumni and friends. But is it important to distinguish between the published tuition — the sticker price, so to speak — and what may be the real cost to a given student. Catholic universities provide large amounts of money to students in scholarship assistance to make their educations affordable. In some cases, this can amount to an average of half-off the published tuition. At Duquesne, we return more than one-fourth of our annual $280 million operating budget to our students in the form of scholarships. Because we have been so successful in increasing our quality as a national tierone university while containing our tuition, Duquesne is recognized as among the top four “best buys” in Catholic higher
education, along with Notre Dame, Boston College and Georgetown. Our tuition among these four universities is, by far, the lowest. Most recently, US News & World Report released a list of the top 20 most efficient universities in the nation. Only four private universities made that list; only one among them is Catholic. We are proud that Duquesne is that one. Most important in assessing the value of a university education are the values of the university itself. While serving those of all faiths — just as Catholic hospitals and Catholic charities do — Catholic universities take their religious and ethical traditions seriously. At Duquesne, we are quite deliberate about our Catholic, Spiritan mission and identity. It is expressed in our curriculum, in our liturgical life and in the spirit pervading campus. We know that parents, particularly our Catholic parents, want an environment for their sons and daughters that provides intellectual challenge within a context of faith. The secular Princeton Review gave us high praise when they recently described the culture on Duquesne’s campus as “cosmopolitan yet caring.” We understand that compliment to mean that we are achieving the balance that Catholic universities have sought between faith and reason since their origins in the Middle Ages. Is a university education worth the cost? It certainly is on our Bluff, because our education is for a lifetime — and beyond. Dougherty is president of Duquesne University, which was founded in 1878 by Spiritan priests to lift immigrants from poverty through education.
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La Roche ready for its next 50 years By SISTER CANDACE INTROCASO The past year was a Year of Jubilee for La Roche College as we celebrated the 50th anniversary of our founding in 1963 by the Sisters of Divine Providence. This milestone prompted us to reflect on how La Roche has grown from a college for women religious, offering four majors, to one with an enrollment
of nearly 1,500 students from 14 states and 36 countries. Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s students may choose from more than 50 undergraduate and graduate majors. Over the years, one thing has remained constant: our identity as a Catholic college committed to helping students become lifelong learners, achieve professional success and promote justice and peace in a constantly changing global
society. The dream of our founders remains our dream today: To respect our Catholic identity, strive for academic excellence, celebrate diversity, work for justice and equality ... and always seek peace. The truly lasting gift from our 50th jubilee was the opportunity to reconnect with many of our 12,000 alumni, who helped us see our blessings in a new, vibrant way. Through letters and conversations, they showed us that our alumni are the legacy of La Roche, making significant contributions to their professions and communities every day. One alumna, a medical doctor in private practice who also runs a free clinic in Bronx, N.Y., recalled her La Roche years in the late 1960s: â&#x20AC;&#x153;La Roche welcomed See 50 years, Page 48
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50 YEARS
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me as a new immigrant to this country and nurtured my desire to learn and care for others. I have cared for hundreds of new immigrants and many marginalized Americans over the last 30 years. One of my goals has always been to make them feel as welcomed and as appreciated as La Roche made me feel.” Another alumna, who heads a Harrisburg communications firm, recalled being on campus in January 1986 when the space shuttle Challenger exploded: “The day was filled with sadness as my professors, classmates and friends discussed what happened in a very meaningful way. I was among other people who cared about the world and each other and were willing to come together and support each other when necessary.”
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That care for the world and each other continues today on our campus. As part of our jubilee, the college invited role models to campus to share their thoughts and inspirations. Pulitzer Prizewinning writer Nicholas Kristof delivered the 50th anniversary lecture, urging us to fight global poverty by unlocking women’s power as economic catalysts. Former Sen. George Mitchell, U.S. envoy for Northern Ireland peace and special envoy for Middle East peace, was the inaugural recipient of the La Roche College Peace Medal and gave the keynote address at the Global Problems, Global Solutions Conference sponsored by La Roche. Another highlight of our jubilee year was a visit from Martin Sheen, a devout Catholic and acclaimed actor, humanitarian and social activist. He received an honorary doctorate of humane letters and delivered the college’s 48th commencement address. When a reporter asked Sheen why he chose to visit La Roche. he replied:
“We should all be about the business of building a better world for our children. ... At La Roche, it’s very clear that they are sending young people out into the world to be a light and an inspiration and an energy. They are building better children for our world.” We at La Roche are humbled, and motivated, by Sheen’s words. Scripture tells us: “The 50th year is sacred ... a time of freedom and celebration” (Leviticus 25:10). That certainly has been the La Roche experience. Our 50 years have prepared us for the next 50 ... and beyond.
Divine Providence Sister Candace Introcaso is president of La Roche College in McCandless Township.
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e h t n O ‘ : s r e h c a Te ’ s e n i l f ront By Beverly Buxareo
Following is the acceptance speech delivered May 28 by Beverly Buxareo at the 2013 Golden Apple Awards dinner at the Westin Convention Center Hotel. The Golden Apple Award symbolizes excellent performance in the classroom, church and community. Buxareo was one of eight educators who received the award.
we can to ensure that the long tradition of academic excellence and faith formation associated with our Catholic schools continue well into the future and beyond. We are blessed to have chosen a vocation which enables us to serve the children of this diocese and provide them with the opportunity to grow in faith,
hope and charity. Thank you again, and may our Lord continue to protect and expand the best vehicle for passing on the faith — our Catholic school. Buxareo is a Spanish teacher at Vincentian Academy in McCandless Township.
Good evening. It is my privilege and honor to speak on behalf of all the Golden Apple awardees. Let me first thank our dear Bishop David Zubik for taking the time out of his busy schedule to be here with us. His presence makes this event so very special to us in Catholic education. It clearly demonstrates the value he places on this ministry. I would also like to express our gratitude to the Donahue family for their extraordinary generosity and kindness in sponsoring this award all these 22 years. Finally, to the members of the selection committee. Thank you for your dedication and commitment to this program, which recognizes the excellent work of Catholic school teachers and administrators. The Catholic school has been recognized as one of the most important vehicles for the saving mission of the church. Can you imagine what a responsibility this places on the Catholic school teacher? We are asked to integrate faith and culture in a world where the culture does all it can to subjugate the Christian message. The Catholic school teacher is on the front lines in this struggle to teach the truth, as revealed to us by almighty God. We must be true witnesses to Christ in the classroom. We must do all we can to teach a Christian vision of the world. Tonight, you recognize the critical role we play in the future growth and leadership of the Catholic Church. We are humbled by this award, and we all want you to know that we will continue to do all
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Sharing the faith with others By JUDY KIRK
T
my students. It was a blessing to know that I had really made a difference in someone’s young life. Even more, I came to realize what an honor it is to teach the faith. Our diocesan records show that more than 5,000 parish catechists, youth ministers and Catholic school teachers serve the Church of Pittsburgh by teaching the faith. These dedicated men and women are vital to the mission of the church and are a constant reminder to all of us of our own responsibility to be “catechists.” God calls each of us — parent or guardian, grandparent, brother and sister, aunt and uncle, neighbor or friend — to open the doors of faith and share it with others. Our example of faith professed and lived is the best means we have for passing on the faith to those around us. The role of catechist is to make Christ and his life come alive in the minds and
he role of catechist is to make Christ and his life come alive in the minds and hearts of everyone they teach.
Several years ago, I received a letter from a young high school graduate who had been a student of mine in an eighth-grade faith formation class. “I just want to thank you,” she wrote, “for what you told us about God and how much he loves us. That no matter what we do, if we’re truly sorry, God is always there to forgive us and love us. I carried those words with me and thought about them often. They kept me going when I thought no one really understood or cared, and here I am today ready to enter college. I will take your words with me and remember how important it is to trust God’s love and pray for forgiveness.” I was truly touched by her letter. In all my years in religious education, I had never once received a “formal” thank you from one of
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hearts of everyone they teach. To help them become convinced that they are loved by God — infinitely, personally and uniquely. To bring them to awareness that each of us is individually called by God to fulfill some part of his divine plan of salvation. To help them make a permanent commitment to think, live and love as Jesus did. Catechists — teachers of the faith — may never know the goodness they bring about by the selfless giving of their time and talent. They might never receive a “formal” thank you for their efforts. But they can be sure that those they teach will benefit from their very presence, their witnessing of faith through words and actions, their enthusiasm and caring, and by their own conviction and love of God and his church. Catechists are a priceless gift to those they teach, and an example and witness of God’s grace and truth. Kirk is director of the diocesan Department for Religious Education.
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“The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires.” — William Arthur Ward I have been blessed with the opportunity to study under several great teachers in my life, but the one who always sticks out in my mind is Cindy Eckert. Mrs. Eckert was my high school English teacher at Venango Catholic in Oil City, Pa. What made her so exceptional was that she inspired me not just to learn but to excel. She led her class in a way that captivated my attention, and thus demanded my active participation. She did this in part by introducing me to the Socratic method of learning, where I was expected to pose questions and seek answers through deep analysis and critical thinking. She always demonstrated the utmost respect and treated me as though I had something to contribute, that my thoughts were valuable and that I mattered. She spoke to me and not simply at me or down to me. In this manner, it was clear that she saw me as an individual, rather than a number or part of a living statistic. She recognized my strengths and talents and encouraged me to utilize them to the fullest extent possible. I am eternally grateful for Mrs. Eckert’s dedication, encouragement and care, and it is something that I seek to emulate in relation to my students. Thus, I must agree with Henry Adams’ quote: “A teacher affects eternity: he can never tell where his influence stops.”
Respect Patton is a teacher at Quigley Catholic High School in Baden.
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John Steinbeck once expressed: “I have come to believe that a great teacher is a great artist and that there are as few as there are any other great artists. Teaching might even be the greatest of the arts since the medium is the human mind and spirit.” Since the beginning of Catholic education, the minds and spirits of individuals have been nurtured and developed. As the product of Catholic education, I was very blessed to receive this love and support from my teachers. Although I received training from many very talented and loving individuals, one emerges as the most prominent significance in my life. Kristie Wolfe, my English and psychology teacher while I attended Bishop Carroll High School, influenced my desire to be a teacher through her knowledge and love of her core subjects, her willingness to engage with students on an equal and spiritual level, and her kindness toward her students. Mrs. Wolfe displayed her love and knowledge of her core subjects through the sharing of her stories and experience. I remember meeting her during English class in my first year of high school. In that class, Mrs. Wolfe always brought the stories to life by her detailed and vivid descriptions of the characters and her melodic voice reading the passages. I still remember stories such as “The Monkey’s Paw,” “Beowulf” and “Twelve Angry Men” that we read and discussed in class. The energy that she brought to the classroom to relay these stories always astounded me. Mrs. Wolfe’s enthusiasm was also evident in psychology class, where she involved students with her lively discussions, organized notes and love of the human mind. Having English and psychology with her inspired me to minor in both of those areas while in college. Mrs. Wolfe inspires me to love the subjects that I teach and show a high level of enthusiasm in my classroom. In addition to inspiring me through her subject areas, Mrs. Wolfe had a significant impact on my life in her willingness to respect students as individuals and speak to us on an equal level. I remember her always being positive, upbeat and happy to
talk to students. While talking to students in classroom discussion, she intertwined stories of her husband, her children, her siblings and her parents. These stories not only highlighted reality that depicted the topic in class but also showed us that Mrs. Wolfe was a person, an individual, with whom we could relate. In addition to telling stories, she always began class by asking if we had any prayer intentions, then she included her own prayer intentions as well. In this dialogue of prayer, we could see her as a person who cared about her spirituality and ours. Mrs. Wolfe’s ability to identify with students on a personal level inspires me to do the same. Although she inspired me by her love of English and psychology, and her ability to relate to students, she has influenced me the most through the care and nurturing that she showed for her students even beyond the classroom. She cared deeply about her students, and she showed this care by not only talking with students, but by offering to help outside of class, and even outside of Bishop Carroll. After graduation from high school, I kept in touch with Mrs. Wolfe, who has been a blessing as a mentor teacher. She has provided encouragement and support for me, especially when I was in my first year of teaching. She continues to motivate me to show kindness toward my students even after they have left my classroom. Mrs. Wolfe has been a blessing and an inspiration to me as a teacher, and I value the lessons that I learned from her. Since she demonstrated her ability to showcase her subjects, talk to students as individuals and nurture her students even beyond her classroom, she has made a significant impact on me. Mrs. Wolfe is certainly distinct among the many wonderful teachers that I encountered throughout my Catholic education. John Steinbeck was correct that few astounding teachers exist, but the amazing ones who do exist foster the mind and spirit of their students. Mrs. Wolfe cultivated the minds and spirits of her students and still continues to inspire us today.
Inspiring Enthusiasm
By KATIE PATTON
Encouragement
By JAN FOX
Support
Fox is a Spanish and psychology teacher at Serra Catholic High School in McKeesport.
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Captivating
By NICK SALINAS
Funny
I arrived at Priory, an all-boys Benedictine Catholic school, on the first day of seventh grade. I managed to find my locker, stow my books and get my parents out before they completely embarrassed me; so far a successful start. Soon, all the seventh-graders were herded into a room with black walls and a small stage. We sat on the floor and nervously awaited what was to follow. In walked a man with silver hair; not a young man, but clearly powerful; not a tall man, but a giant; not a handsome man, but utterly captivating. He boomed, “Listen up, you little rapscallions, my name is Mr. Geiss, and you are no longer boys, but men.” Mr. Geiss went on to tell us that at Priory we worked harder than the rest, we played harder than the rest and the only standing rule of the middle school was “no blood on the carpet.” We laughed at this, he smiled a little. Besides being director of the middle school, Mr. Geiss
also taught Latin. He had been teaching boys for years beyond measure and was a pro. Mr. Geiss was the first teacher I had to capture my attention so fully and instantly inspire me to work at a higher level. We recited conjugation and declension endings in class, and when we messed up, he made hilarious threats that made everyone laugh. From time to time, he went off on tangents (these were my favorite times). He told us stories from his life and from history. He discoursed about the virtues of men: honesty, loyalty, piety. He spoke to us of God, in a way no one ever had before. I find myself looking back and laughing at all of Mr. Geiss’ antics and styles to this very day. Although there were certainly many teachers who were influential on who I am and how I teach, Mr. Geiss was the first to have an impact. If there is any doubt about this, here I am now, middle school director and Latin teacher.
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Salinas is a teacher at Aquinas Academy in Hampton Township.
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KIDSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; CORNER
Build the Monkey Puzzle
This is a zigzag word search puzzle. Words go left, right, up, down, not diagonally, and can bend at a right angle. There are no unused letters in the grid, every letter is used only once.
WIN TICKETS TO A PITT FOOTBALL GAME Submit this coupon to be entered in a drawing for a chance to win 4 club-seat tickets to the November 16th game against North Carolina. Name Address City
State
Zip
Phone # RULES/DISCLAIMER: To enter, complete the entry form here and submit it no later than Monday, October 28, 2013, to: PITT FOOTBALL CONTEST, PITTSBURGH CATHOLIC, 135 FIRST AVENUE, SUITE 200, PITTSBURGH PA 15222-1513; FAXES ACCEPTED AT 412-471-4228. Employees of the Pittsburgh Catholic Publishing Associates and Diocesan headquarters are not eligible. One entry per household.
Congratulations to Lori Morgano, winner of our Gift Card contest (Healthy Spirit, Mind & Body 2013)!
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