Bishop’s Easter Message Mother Nature and Easter Joy
Diocese of Fall River, Mass.
He is Risen!
Artwork by Emilie Jolivet
Friday, March 23, 2018
“Look at the birds in the sky ... learn from the way the wild flowers grow” (Mtx 6:26,28). hen autumn arrives every year, we feel in the air and see all around us the changes taking place in nature. There is a festival of changing colors. Deep green turns into yellow, red, brown, and a few other shades in between. Then the leaves begin to fall and the trees lose their beauty. By late December, they are apparently lifeless. If we wonder why they lose their leaves, it is nature’s way of protecting itself. The leaves fall to keep branches from breaking with the heavy snows of winter and also to protect roots from freezing. By now, we’ve gone through the short days and long nights of winter, but in the last few weeks we’ve seen our days getting longer and nights getting shorter. A few days ago, we celebrated the arrival of spring. Now, with spring here, we see new signs of life all around us. The grass will soon be turning green again; trees will soon be full of leaves; flowers will embellish our homes, lawns, sidewalks and parks everywhere. We know that the cold and darkness of winter is behind us. “How varied are Your works, LORD! In wisdom You have made them all; the earth is full of Your creatures. Send forth Your Spirit, they are created and You renew the face of the earth” (Ps 104:24,30). “Let them praise the name of the Lord, for He commanded and they were created” (Ps 148:5). We need to learn a lesson from nature: “This contemplation of creation allows us to discover in each thing a teaching which God wishes to hand onto us, since for the believer; to contemplate creation is to hear a message, to listen to a paradoxical and silent voice” (St. John Paul II, Catechesis). Like nature preparing for the winter, we too, begin our Lenten season with the process of dying. We received ashes on Ash Wednesday as a sign of our own willingness to let go as we journey toward Easter. We move from the ashes of penance and dying, from the ashes of sin and selfishness, to the glory of new life and hope at Easter. When we celebrate Easter, we go through a renewal in our lives, just as nature does. So, when you see the signs of new life this spring, when you feel the warmth of the sun, when you see flowers blossoming and leaves growing on trees, remember that God is inviting us to renew our lives as well. He is inviting us to leave behind the old self and fill ourselves with new hope. He wants us to share in Christ’s Resurrection, but in order to share this glory, we need to let go, to let what is sinful and evil in us die so that we can live a new life with Him forever. Christ is our light, and with His grace we can pass from darkness to light, from sin to grace, from death to life. “He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there shall be no more death or mourning, wailing or pain, [for] the old order has passed away. Behold, I make all things new” (Rev 21:4,5). Indeed, even in the midst of what seems to be death and doom, darkness and ashes, life is just under the surface waiting to bloom, to blossom, to grow and bear fruit. Jesus let go of His Godliness, emptied Himself, went through His darkness, suffering and dying, but God raised Him and brought Him back to life. If we hold to our faith and hope, God, our loving Father, will bring us also to a new life. “To sense each creature singing the hymn of its existence is to live joyfully in God’s love and hope” (Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Japan). As is often sung during the Lenten season, “Abide with us, that so, this life of suffering overpast, an Easter of unending joy we may attain at last.” May the Lord Who rose victoriously from death, renew our faith and hope and fill us with joy and peace this Easter. Happy Easter! Feliz Páscoa! Feliz Pascua de Resurrección! Sincerely yours in Christ,
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Most Reverend Edgar Cunha, S.D.V. PhotoM. byda Dave Jolivet Bishop of Fall River The Anchor - March 23, 2018 1
A Pastoral Letter from Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V. Introducing Strategic Planning Dear Friends in Christ: Last April, I wrote my first Pastoral Letter to all of you — our clergy and religious together with the members of Christ’s faithful — extending an invitation “to join me on a journey that will lead to the renewal and rebuilding of our Church, the Body of Christ alive in our midst.” Here we are, almost one year later, and I am happy to share that our journey is well underway. We are celebrating some early successes of strategic planning for our Catholic schools, launching a new Catholic Foundation, and the introduction of the Good Leaders Good Shepherds leadership program in support of our clergy. Another success has been the completion of the work of the Task Force on Parishes as part of our Pastoral Planning. These combined efforts have attracted broad support, have been diligent in purpose and outcome, and have surfaced new and renewed lay and clergy leadership. Many — clergy and laity alike — are now realizing greater opportunities as the Diocese begins life anew. Based on this, and building on this energy, I believe the time is now to be expansive in tackling the challenges we face with faith-filled and innovative solutions. To accomplish this, we will begin a strategic planning process in the Diocese, and I am asking our priests and lay-faithful to become personally engaged in it. Successful strategic planning will demand our collective assets — the wisdom, judgment, skills, commitment and aspirations of all members of our Diocesan Church. In short, we must forge a vision — and a plan — to move forward, together. STRATEGIC PLANNING PROCESS “The Bishop must always foster missionary communion in his Diocesan Church, following the ideal of the first Christian communities, in which the believers were of one heart and one soul (cf. Acts 4:32). To do so, he will sometimes go before his people, pointing the way and keeping their hope vibrant. At other times, he will simply be in their midst with his unassuming and merciful presence. And 2 The Anchor - March 23, 2018
yet other times, he will have to walk after them, helping those who lag behind and — above all — allowing the flock to strike out on new paths. In his mission of fostering a dynamic, open and missionary communion, he will have to encourage and develop the means of participation … out of a desire to listen to everyone and not simply to those who would tell him what he would like to hear. Yet the principal aim of these participatory processes should not be ecclesiastical organization, but rather the missionary aspiration of reaching everyone.” Pope Francis Evangelii Gaudium
This “missionary aspiration of reaching everyone” is the work of strategic planning. In today’s Church (indeed in the world of nonprofits in general) strategic planning is no longer hierarchical, top-down, or dictated by the opinions of one or a few. It is not imposed on us by outside experts; it is guided from within. It is not focused on our deficits, or what we have been doing wrong; rather it is built on our assets — the wisdom, judgment, talents, skills, passions, and aspirations of those within our Church community, clergy and laity. In short, we must figure this out together. When done well, strategic planning creates a special moment that can unite the local and larger Church in ways that have transformational impact — changing both the hearts of those who participate, and the lives of those served. Mirroring my Pastoral Letter, I am calling this strategic planning process Rebuilding in Faith and Hope, focusing on three major goals: revitalizing our parishes; renewing the ministries of the Diocese; and strengthening support for clergy. A brief overview of
each follows: I. REVITALIZE OUR PARISHES “With its universal and indispensable provisions, the prograßm of the Gospel must continue to take root, as it has always done, in the life of the Church everywhere. It is in the local churches that the specific features of a detailed pastoral plan can be identified — goals and methods, formation and enrichment of the people involved, the search for the necessary resources — which will enable the proclamation of Christ to reach people, mold communities, and have a deep and incisive influence in bring-
Successful transition and change must be well managed, and this strategic planning proposal is an opportunity for forging a new vision, and creating a new plan, for the lifechanging work of our parishes. A strategic planning effort is getting started with a pilot group of 1012 parishes. A step-by-step framework has been developed to guide each parish through this planning process to ensure wide consultation, a thorough assessment of all aspects of the parish, and the formulation of an action plan that is specific, measurable, and realistic. Facilitators from outside the parish will be on hand to assist. Planning for the revitalization of parishes will also take place in the coming months with the creation of a Parish Revitalization Commission of lay people and clergy — whose task will be the evaluation of available parish evangelization and/ or renewal programs. From their research, this committee will ultimately recommend 3-4 options for ing Gospel values to bear in society our parishes to choose from for their and culture.” own revitalization. Some parishes Pope John Paul II may be ready to begin this effort as Novo Millenio Ineunte early as the fall of this year. The recently completed Pastoral II. RENEW THE MINISTRIES Planning Report makes the recomOF THE Diocese mendation that pastoral (parish) “Let us not allow ourselves to be revitalization and parish planning robbed of missionary enthusiasm! teams be established in all parishes. It (#80) Some fall into it because they is important to note that the report throw themselves into unrealistic provides indicators as data points, to projects and are not satisfied simply use as a tool in the decision-making to do what they reasonably can. Othbut does not make specific recomers, because they lack the patience mendations. to allow processes to mature; they This strategic planning proposal want everything to fall from Heaven. addresses the process that each parOthers, because they are attached ish will adopt prior to any decision to a few projects or vain dreams of about its future. Those decisions will success. Others, because they have be made with the advice and counsel lost real contact with people and so of the individual parish revitalization depersonalize their work that they teams, working in close and facilitat- are more concerned with the road ed collaboration with other parishes. map than with the journey itself.” This strategic planning is designed Pope Francis to engage clergy and laity in the Evangelii Gaudium decision-making process, so that I would like to bring parishioners they own the outcome — that they together to discern and plan for the have invested themselves approprimission of the Greater Church of ately and meaningfully, and are able Fall River — uniting them in spirit to make an informed and inspired and action to accomplish ministry judgment about the future of their on their terms, with integrity, impact, parish. and passion.
A Pastoral Letter from Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V. Introducing Strategic Planning To do so requires a diocesan strategic planning process parallel to the parish planning that brings together clergy and lay people from all over the Diocese — the more, the better — to engage in specific ministries about which they are passionate and have much to share. The purpose of “Renewing the Ministries of the Diocese” is to: 1. Forge a new vision out of the needs and aspirations of many, not just a few clergy or administrators. 2. Foster unity with the Bishop. 3. Support our pastors, to enable “priests to be priests.” 4. Listen to the concerns of our lay people. 5. Bring back those frustrated or fallen away from the Church. 6. Allow laity to contribute their considerable time and talent in meaningful and productive ways. 7. Find “positive deviants” — those with extraordinary passion and skill to do great things. 8. Engage clergy and laity in productive ways that show results. 9. Renew our mission to change lives. 10. Develop needed resources, financial and human. This will begin with a representative body of the Diocese forming what we’re calling a Diocesan Ministry Planning Commission, which will oversee the process. Central to this process will be a series of regional “listening sessions” to be held at various parish locations. Parishioners will be invited to attend to express to me their hopes and dreams for our Church. My role along with that of the Planning Commission members, will be to listen. It is my prayer that many will attend one of the following listening sessions, scheduled from 6:30-8:00 p.m., at the following parishes: 1. March 20 — St. Mary, Norton 2. March 21 — St. Ann, Raynham 3. April 5 — Christ the King, Mashpee 4. April 12 — St. Mary’s Cathedral, Fall River 5. April 18 — St. Joan of Arc, Orleans 6. April 20 — St. Julie Billiart,
North Dartmouth 7. April 23 — Our Lady of Victory, Centerville* *(scheduled from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.) Examples of priority areas are often determined based on listening sessions. These may include: • Parish Life — identifying those critical issues in the Spiritual and temporal life of the laity; to offer inspiring and practical methods and solutions as to how the Diocese can better support its parishes. • Communications: Explore ways to bring the Diocese into the 21st century of communication including social media platforms, live streams, mobile communications, email
broadcasting and effective database management. • Vocations: Establish priorities for the campus ministries of the colleges and universities served by the Diocese. Create a board of directors for campus ministry and engage lay people in these outreach ministries. • Youth/Young Adults Ministries: Explore ways to pool resources and coordinate programs, recruit effective leaders, develop age-appropriate communications platforms and organize events that inspire this age group to participate • Religious Education: To engage the clergy and laity to discern ways we lead people to Christ in a way that supports each individual’s lifelong journey. • Multiculturalism/Diversity: Assess challenges and opportunities for multicultural and ethnic parishes, discern needs, develop plans to be more inclusive and supportive. These are but a few examples, certainly not exhaustive. Others will be discerned from listening to our stakeholders. These commissions will kick off in the fall. The fruits of their work will
eventually become part of a master plan for the Fall River Diocese. The success of this process will require the participation of a wide representation of our Diocesan Church. It is my prayer that more than 1,000 will participate! III: Restore Support for Clergy “Pastoral ministry in a missionary key seeks to abandon the complacent attitude that says: ‘We have always done it this way.’ I invite everyone to be bold and creative in this task of rethinking the goals, structures, style and methods of evangelization in their respective communities. A proposal of goals without
planning should immediately address the collegiality of our priests, as well as the issue of “subsidiarity” — a Catholic notion that has taken over many a modern organization: decisions that can be taken at a lower level should not be kicked up to people who know less about the local situation. Subsidiarity calls for more collaborative decision-making at the parish level, and empowering our pastors to be confident and inspiring members of a team. I have begun the important process of communicating directly with the priests in small groups. In addition, we are offering: 1. Pastoral Leadership Initiatives — Pending the feedback of the initial class of Good Leaders Good Shepherds, the program or another similar one may be offered to all priests in the Diocese. I will convene a committee to evaluate and recommend other programs to address specific issues such as administration, preaching, Liturgy, etc. an adequate communal search for 2. Ministry to Priests — In colthe means of achieving them will laboration with Boston College, our inevitably prove illusory. I encourDiocese will be the first to offer a age everyone to apply the guidelines comprehensive and multi-phased found in this document generously approach in caring for our priests and courageously, without inhibitions — Spirit, mind and body. Together or fear. The important thing is to not with Boston College, the Jesuits have walk alone, but to rely on each other created programs that will focus on as brothers and sisters, and especially physical, Spiritual and emotional under the leadership of the Bishhealth. ops, in a wise and realistic pastoral As we celebrate the joy of Easter, discernment.” I ask you to keep the success of our Pope Francis planning in your prayers and I promEvangelii Gaudium ise to keep you informed about each Recent feedback from our pasnext step. Please pray about what it tors revealed concerns about a lack is that God may be calling you to — of collegiality, a lack of transparency, and the important role you may play feelings of isolation, and a greater in this entire planning effort. Real need for the pastors — and parishtransformation — at both the local ioners — to lend their voices to this and larger-Church levels — will planning. happen, only if we are all together, The Pastoral Planning Report also leading the way. echoed this concern: that pastors are May God bless us on this jouroverburdened, at times overwhelmed, ney in Rebuilding in Faith and and unable to be “priests” because of Hope! administrative responsibilities. It is expected that the strategic planning Sincerely yours in Christ, commissions will address the administration of our parishes and offer solutions. Most Reverend Edgar M.da Cunha,S.D.V. In the meantime our strategic Bishop of Fall River The Anchor - March 23, 2018 3
Roman Catholic Bishop of Fall River Financial Transparency Announcement Chancery Office (of Corporation Sole)
“The time to start is now and I invite you to journey with us as our Diocese continues to not only Rebuild in Faith and Hope, but change lives in this corner of Massachusetts.” — Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V. 4
The Anchor - March 23, 2018
Audited Financial Statements of Roman Catholic Bishop of Fall River Chancery Office (of Corporation Sole)
“Over the past two years, there have been a variety of accomplishments and challenges. The main priority has been to build a culture of service outwardly to our parishes, schools and affiliates.�
Kevin R. Kiley Chancellor and Chief Financial Officer
See www.FallRiverDiocese.org for further details The Anchor - March 23, 2018
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Anchor Editorial
Free speech is still needed
Tuesday the Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the case of NIFLA v. Becerra, in which Pro-Life crisis pregnancy centers were appealing to the court for relief from California’s laws demanding that they provide information to their clients about where they can obtain an abortion. New York’s Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities, issued a statement, stating, “Pro-Life pregnancy care centers embody everything that is right and good in our nation: generosity, compassion and love that is offered to support both mother and child. But rather than applauding and encouraging the selfless and life-affirming work of these centers, some governments want to force them to provide free advertising for the violent act of abortion in direct violation of their Pro-Life convictions and the First Amendment. The United States Supreme Court cannot let this happen. We pray that the Court will do the right thing and uphold our fundamental right to free speech when it decides this case.” A number of organizations have briefs with the court in favor of these centers, including the USCCB, the California Catholic Conference, the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, the Christian Legal Society and Agudath Israel of America. They remind the court that the First Amendment affirms our Godgiven right to free speech and part of that freedom is the freedom to not have to say things one does not want to say (such as telling someone where they can get an abortion). Back on March 12 two bishops wrote to Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah) to voice their support for the First Amendment Defense Act, a bill which Lee had authored. Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Louisville, chairman of USCCB Committee for Religious Liberty, and Bishop James D. Conley of Lincoln, chairman of the Subcommittee for the Promotion and Defense of Marriage, wrote, “FADA is a modest and important measure that protects the rights of faithbased organizations and people of all faiths and of no faith who believe that Marriage is the union of one man and one woman. For example, in a pluralistic society, faith-based charitable agencies, and schools should not be excluded from participation in public life by loss of licenses, accreditation, or tax-exempt status because they hold reasonable views on Marriage that differ from the federal government’s view.” Some (including many Catholics) might object that these views about Marriage (the view that the Church has held since Pentecost) are rooted in bigotry. Although it is true that gay and lesbian people (as Father Landry wrote a while back, we will use the terminology that they have requested we use, instead of the circumlocutions we use in the Church to not define people by their sexual desires) have been (and continue to be, in many times and places) the objects of hatred and violence, one cannot say that everyone who holds the traditional belief about Marriage is doing so out of animus against gay people. Whatever the origin of someone’s beliefs, the two bishops, in supporting FADA, wrote, “The Church will also continue to stand for the ability of all to exercise their religious beliefs and moral convictions in public life without fear of government discrimination.” Government discrimination is different from cultural pressure. As you can read in the Pro-Life essays from our students in this issue of The Anchor, subtle (or not so subtle) cultural pressure to conform to the popular (or elite) position OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF FALL RIVER www.anchornews.org
Vol. 62, No. 6
Published bi-weekly by the Catholic Press of the Diocese of Fall River, 887 Highland Avenue, Fall River, MA 02720, Telephone 508-675-7151 — FAX 508-675-7048, email: theanchor@anchornews.org. Subscription price by mail, postpaid $20.00 per year, for U.S. addresses. Send address changes to 887 Highland Avenue, Fall River, MA, call or use email address
PUBLISHER - Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V. EXECUTIVE EDITOR Father Richard D. Wilson fatherwilson@anchornews.org EDITOR David B. Jolivet davejolivet@anchornews.org ADVERTISING Wayne R. Powers waynepowers@anchornews.org REPORTER Kenneth J. Souza kensouza@anchornews.org Send Letters to the Editor to: fatherwilson@anchornews.org
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The Anchor - March 23, 2018
on a given issue can often be very strong. We are about to enter into Holy Week, in which we meditate upon how fickle crowds and governmental leaders can be in their administration of “justice,” how they (really we) don’t want to find out what truth is (notice how Pontius Pilate didn’t wait to hear Jesus give an answer to his question, “What is truth?”). New York Times columnist David Brooks, in a March 1 essay entitled “How Progressives win the culture war,” warns against using this societal pressure too forcefully. “The only thing I’d say to my progressive friends is, be careful how you win your victories. It is one thing to win by persuasion and another thing to win by elite cultural intimidation. Illiberalism breeds illiberalism. Using elite power, whether economic or cultural, to silence less educated foes usually produces a backlash.” Earlier in the column Brooks had noted how his more restrained approach of trying to convince people, instead of intimidate them, had been rejected. “Progressives are getting better and more aggressive at silencing dissenting behavior. All sorts of formerly legitimate opinions have now been deemed beyond the pale on elite campuses. Speakers have been disinvited and careers destroyed. The boundaries are being redrawn across society.” This is why the bishops are concerned and are asking for our help in promoting freedom of speech — not so as to support hatred or oppression, but because this freedom is rooted in our human dignity. Brooks cited Andrew Sullivan, a gay activist (but also a free-market conservative), who wrote in New York magazine on February 9, an article entitled “We all live on campus now.” In it, Sullivan said, “The Enlightenment principles that formed the bedrock of the American experiment — untrammeled free speech, due process, individual (rather than group) rights — are now routinely understood as mere masks for ‘white male’ power, code words for the oppression of women and nonwhites.” Due to this “understanding” of the world, we now have a lot of “silence,” but not the good kind. Sullivan explained, “An entirely intended byproduct of this kind of [societal] bullying is silence. If voicing an ‘incorrect’ opinion can end your career, or mark you for instant social ostracism, you tend to keep quiet. This silence on any controversial social issue is endemic on college campuses, but it’s now everywhere.” Indirectly getting back to Pontius Pilate, Sullivan wrote, “Objective truth? Ha! The culture is now saturated with the concept of ‘your own truth’ — based usually on your experience of race and gender.” Brooks issued a scary warning at the end of his column, which sounds a lot like what Angela Lansbury’s villain said in “The Manchurian Candidate.” Brooks: “Conservatives have zero cultural power, but they have immense political power. Even today, voters trust Republicans on the gun issue more than Democrats. If you exile 40 percent of the country from respectable society they will mount a political backlash that will make Donald Trump look like Adlai Stevenson.” Lansbury’s character planned a televised assassination, so that her husband could be “rallying a nation of television-viewers into hysteria, to sweep us up into the White House with powers that will make martial law seem like anarchy.” Maybe we need to keep our freedom of speech.
Daily Readings March 24 – April 6
Upcoming Daily Readings: Sat. Mar. 24, Ez 37:21-28; (Ps) Jer 31:10-13; Jn 11:45-56. Sun. Mar. 25, Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion, Procession: Mk 11:1-10 or Jn 12:12-16. Mass: Is 50:4-7; Ps 22:8-9,17-19-20,23-24; Phil 2:6-11; Mk 14:1—15:47 or 15:1-39. Mon. Mar. 26, Is 42:1-7; Ps 27:1-3,13-14; Jn 12:1-11. Tues. Mar. 27, Is 49:1-6; Ps 71:1-4a,5-6ab,15,17; Jn 13:21-33,36-38. Wed. Mar. 28, Is 50:4-9a; Ps 69:8-10,21bcd-22,31,33-34; Mt 26:14-25. Thurs. Mar. 29, Holy Thursday, Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper: Ex 12:1-8,11-14; Ps 116:1213,15-16bc,17-18; 1 Cor 11:23-26; Jn 13:1-15. Fri. Mar. 30, Good Friday, Mass is not celebrated today. Celebration of the Lord’s Passion: Is 52:13—53:12; Ps 31:2,6,12-13,15-17,25; Heb 4:14-16; 5:7-9; Jn 18:1—19:42. Sat. Mar. 31, Holy Saturday, Readings for the Easter Vigil, which is an Easter Sunday Mass: (1)Gn 1:1—2:2 or 1:1,26-31a; Ps 104:1-2,5-6,10,12-14,24,35 or Ps 33:4-7,12-13,20,22; (2)Gn 22:1-18 or 22:1-2,9a,10-13,15-18; Ps 16:5,8-11; (3)Ex 14:15—15:1; (Ps)Ex 15:1-6,17-18; (4)Is 54:5-14; Ps 30:2,4-6,11-13; (5)Is 55:1-11; (Ps)Is 12:23,4-6; (6)Bar 3:9-15,32—4:4; Ps 19:8-11; (7)Ez 36:16-17a,18-28; Pss 42:3,5; 43:3-4 or (Ps)Is 12:2-3,4bcd,5-6 or Ps 51:12-15,18-19; (8)Rom 6:3-11; Ps 118:1-2,16-17,22-23; (9)Mk 16:1-7. Sun. April 1, Easter Sunday, Acts 10:34a,37-43; Ps 118:1-2,16-17, 22-23; Col 3:1-4 or 1 Cor 5:6b-8; Sequence Victimae Paschali Laudes; Jn 20:1-9 or 41: Mk 16:1-7 or, at an afternoon or evening Mass, 46: Lk 24:13-35. Mon. April 2, Acts 2:14,22-33; Ps 16:12a,5,7-11; Mt 28:8-15. Tues. April 3, Acts 2:36-41; Ps 33:4-5,18-20,22; Jn 20:11-18. Wed. April 4, Acts 3:1-10; Ps 105:1-4,6-9; Lk 24:13-35. Thurs. April 5, Acts 3:11-26; Ps 8:2a,5-9; Lk 24:35-48. Fri. April 6, Acts 4:1-12; Ps 118:1-2,4,22-27a; Jn 21:1-14.
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t’s always a joy when I meet parishioners after Mass and they say, “See you next Sunday!” But there’s one exception: on Palm Sunday. When they say it leaving church with their blessed palms, part of me wants politely to stop them and say to them with a smile: “Do you really have no plans to RSVP for the Last Supper that Jesus ‘eagerly desires to eat with you’ (Lk 22:15) on Holy Thursday? Will you be there on Friday when, as the Negro spiritual croons, they crucify your Lord? Are you excited about Easter, such that you can’t wait to celebrate it at the earliest possible moment, which just happens to be during the most beautiful and Liturgically significant Mass of the year, the Easter Vigil?” The Church professes that in the Sacred Triduum — Holy Thursday, Good Friday and the Easter Vigil — the Church marks the most Sacred time of all time. We enter temporally into the eternal moments when Jesus gave us His Body and Blood in the Upper Room, sacrificed that Body and shed that Blood on Golgotha, and ultimately rose triumphant from the dead. And yet in my pastoral experience there are a shocking number of Catholics who faithfully come to church every Sunday who do not attend any of the moments of the Sacred Triduum. Many others come just to one of the three, normally the Good Friday Passion service. It’s very rare to find parishioners who attend all of them. This is, I think, one of the effects of the increasing secularizing of Catholic sensibilities. Secularism means living as if God doesn’t exist. It’s a type of practical atheism. Rather than living as 24/7 Catholics, we have our “times” for prayer, for Mass, for other religious duties, but the rest of the time, we basically live indistinguishably
Living well the holiest week of the year
of Jesus until midnight. On from those around us. Good Friday, I would head The Church must recover to Boston’s Cathedral of the a sense of full-time Catholic Holy Cross for the Seven identity. One of the most Last Words Meditations important ways to do that from noon to three followed is by recovering a Catholic by the Commemoration of sense of time through livthe Lord’s Passion, with the ing well the Liturgical cycle. And one of the biggest litmus beautifully chanted account tests as to whether we have a of St. John. On Holy SatSpiritually-calibrated watch is how we live what we proclaim to Putting Into be the holiest week of the Deep the year. The phrase “Holy By Father Week” refers, after all, Roger J. Landry only to one week each year. It’s supposed to be special. It’s meant to make us holy. But with the urday, I would return to the exception of the Good Friday cathedral for the three-anda-half hour celebration of the abstinence and fasting, too Easter Vigil. On Easter Sunmany Catholics live it like day, I would head to Mass in any other week of the year. Sometimes people ask me my parish, celebrating Easter again with the joy of seeing whether priests shouldn’t be satisfied that people are com- the church packed. I never believed I was ing to Mass at all on Sundays. Happy? Certainly! Satisfied? doing anything special. I thought that this was what No, because we care too basically every practicing much about the people we Catholic did. For disciples serve not to challenge them to an upgrade in the way they of Jesus to miss any of these principal celebrations of our live their faith. Holy Week faith would have been as is an opportunity for us to incomprehensible for me as grow greatly in love of God, a Red Sox fan’s skipping the in appreciation of what He has done for us, and we hope fifth, sixth and seventh games of the World Series — when and pray that those He died the Sox are competing in for will open themselves up in faith to receive all the gifts it as the American League champs. He seeks to give. When, however, I returned As a young boy growing from seminary to parish life, up in a practicing Cathoanticipating that the Holy lic family — not very long Week Liturgies would be ago! — we always spent the mob scenes, I discovered that Sacred Triduum of Holy they were, in contrast, rather Thursday, Good Friday and the Easter Vigil attending the sparse affairs, in some cases Church’s most solemn Litur- even less well-attended than gies. It was, frankly, unimagi- Holy Days of Obligation. I didn’t know whether it was a nable that we wouldn’t. case of insufficient catechesis When I got to colon the part of priests, parlege, I kept up the practice ents, and Religious Educaand actually intensified it. tion instructors, or general On Holy Thursday, with lukewarmness on the part of friends, I would make the parishioners, or the failure to indulgenced practice of the just reflect adequately on the “Seven Churches,” visitincredible invitations Jesus ing seven altars of repose in makes to us during those various Boston parishes and days. spending time in adoration
But I soon began to discover that Holy Thursday — pastorally — can be a little depressing. The day on which Jesus established the Holy Eucharist and founded the priesthood to make the Eucharist possible is one on which the vast majority of parishioners are doing something else than coming to celebrate these gifts and mysteries. Most Catholic faithful love the Lord but don’t come to celebrate the establishment of His extraordinary Eucharistic self-giving. Most faithful likewise love their priests, but don’t come to celebrate the “day of the priesthood” with them. Good Friday is a little better, when more people seem to try to come to something, whether the Passion Service, or the Seven Last Words, or the Divine Mercy Chaplet, or the Stations of the Cross. But I’ve always wondered how it’s possible for anyone to live the Catholic faith and not to seek to overcome every obstacle to come to say to the Crucified Lord “thank You for dying for me” and “have mercy on me and the whole world.” The Easter Vigil is more like Holy Thursday, when many priests must put on a massive recruitment effort to get people to come. Yes, it’s a Saturday night. The semifinals of the NCAA men’s basketball tourney are often on TV, as they will be again this year. It’s the longest Mass of the year by far, with many more readings and prayers than a typical Sunday, not to mention litanies and triple alleluias, fire and a lengthy clerical solo of the Exultet. But how seriously and eagerly do we approach Easter? Many just seem to pass, choosing to fulfill their Sunday “obligation” the following morning. Most have no idea of how much they’re missing. Occasionally someone
asks, “If Holy Thursday, Good Friday and the Easter Vigil are so important, why aren’t they Holy Days of Obligation?” I think for the same reason why we don’t need laws or rules mandating the celebration of a loved one’s birthday: because it would be unfathomable that such a mandate should be needed. Obliging attendance at the principal events of Jesus’ life by which we enter into His Passover from death to life would be totally to miss the point of the interior motivation that should be bringing us there. Not to downplay at all the importance of any of the Holy Days, but is there any doubt that what the Church celebrates on Holy Thursday — Jesus’ self-giving in the Eucharist — is more important than what we mark on the Solemnities of All Saints Day, Mary Mother of God, the Immaculate Conception, and the Assumption? Is there any question that the celebration of the Lord’s death is more important than the Solemnity marking the Martyrdoms of SS. Peter and Paul? Is there any dispute that the Easter Vigil trumps everything, including the celebration of the Lord’s Nativity and His Ascension? Lent is a season of conversion and the way we live Holy Week should be the crown of that conversion process. May each of us respond to God’s help to dare to make it not only the holiest week of our year but, until now, the holiest week of our life. Anchor columnist Father Landry can be contacted at fatherlandry@ catholicpreaching.com.
The Anchor - March 23, 2018
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Jesuits to provide new support ministry to diocesan priests
By Kenneth J. Souza Anchor Staff kensouza@anchornews.org
EASTON — Acknowledging them as “the greatest asset our diocese has,” Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., informed his brother priests that the Jesuit community at Boston College has established a pilot Ministry to Priests program that will begin providing support in the Fall River Diocese. During a gathering of priests at Stonehill College in Easton on March 7, several members of the Jesuit community introduced themselves and discussed how the fledgling Ministry to Priests program could benefit their diocesan brethren. The program would fulfill one of the key tenets Bishop da Cunha outlined in his latest progress letter to clergy, religious and diocesan faithful entitled “Introducing Strategic Planning,” in which he cited the importance of restoring support for the clergy as an essential part of “rebuilding the diocese in faith and hope.” “Recent feedback from our pastors revealed concerns about a lack of collegiality, a lack of transparency, (and) feelings
of isolation,” Bishop da Cunha wrote. “The Pastoral Planning Report also echoed (the) concern that pastors are overburdened, at times overwhelmed,
multi-phased approach in caring for our priests — Spirit, mind and body. Together with Boston College, the Jesuits have created programs that will
about a year ago with Father Jack Butler, S.J., vice president of Mission and Ministry at Boston College, who immediately offered to assist.
few encounters I went back to Father (William P.) Leahy, S.J., president of Boston College, and I told him there was this need in Fall River. So he agreed that we should put together a program and a ministry for priests. This is not to make them better ministers, this is for themselves — for their emotional, physical and Spiritual well-being.” In addition to having access to some 50-plus Jesuits currently working at Boston College, Father Butler said there is also a retirement community of nearly 100 Jesuit priests in nearby Weston who could be enlisted to help as needed. “Some of those guys are still not only very Jesuits from Boston College have begun a pilot Ministry to Priests program that will active but very capable be offered to priests in the Fall River Diocese. Among the program facilitators who re- and want to help,” Father cently met with the presbyterate and Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., include, from Butler said. “We probably left, Father Michael Boughton, S.J., Center for Ignatian Spirituality; Father Bob Keane, couldn’t take care of mulS.J., rector of the Jesuit community at Boston College; Bishop da Cunha; Father John tiple parishes at the same Siberski, S.J., M.D., consulting psychiatrist; Father John C. Monahan, S.J., director of the time, but if priests need Ministry to Priests program; and Father Jack Butler, S.J., vice president of Mission and some respite or help, we’d Ministry at Boston College. (Photo by Kenneth J. Souza) like to try to provide that.” The simple notion of “ministering to the minand unable to be ‘priests’ focus on physical, Spiritu“This is something that isters” of the diocese is an because of administrative al and emotional health,” is a privilege and we want idea whose time has come, responsibilities.” the bishop wrote. to do it,” Father Butler especially given the fact To that end, Boston An innovative work told The Anchor. “I talked that many diocesan priests College’s first-ever Minis- in progress, the program to the bishop and I asked are juggling multiple astry to Priests would serve dates back to a meeting him what he wanted, what signments and are more as “a comprehensive and Bishop da Cunha had was his dream. From those often than not working alone. “They really are on the front lines, and there’s not a whole lot behind them, and it’s tiresome and emotional work and sometimes it’s not always a hospitable environment,” Father Butler said. “We don’t need — not even a little bit — to give them help in being ministers. They’re pros at being ministers. They’re great preachers, they know how to deal with people who Turn to page 20
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The Anchor - March 23, 2018
Hundreds return for second annual Women and Men’s Conference
By Kenneth J. Souza Anchor Staff kensouza@anchornews.org
EASTON — Hundreds of faithful from across the Fall River Diocese returned for the second annual Women and Men’s Conference at Stonehill College in Easton on Saturday, March 10. Sponsored by the diocese, the daylong event included opportunities for prayer, reflection and education in the form of a series of talks centered around the theme, “Be on Fire — Set the World on Fire.”
In his welcoming remarks, Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., explained the conference theme is a challenge for everyone to start small and, hopefully, that “fire” within each one of us will eventually “set the world on fire.” “You know fire can spread pretty quickly in the right environment — if it has enough oxygen and with the right amount of dry material, it moves pretty fast,” Bishop da Cunha said. “So we have to give the ingredients for the fire to grow — that is our
Returning for her second consecutive appearance at the 2018 diocesan Women and Men’s Conference, inspirational speaker and singer ValLimar Jansen once again got everyone up and moving early on with her exuberant music and uplifting message. (Photo by Deacon Alan Thadeu)
Diocese of Fall River
faith, our hope, our joy, our enthusiasm. “Let us start setting ourselves on fire, then our families, then our neighbors and the people we come in contact with; because if we think about setting the world on fire, we may become a little discouraged and overwhelmed because the world is a big place. But if we start with our own families, our own neighborhoods, our own parishes, then we can set the diocese on fire. Once we set the diocese on fire, I’ll be happy.” The bishop shared a beautiful image attributed to St. John Vianney, in which the venerable saint once claimed that a single matchstick can’t do much, and if the wind blows, it will extinguish the flame. “But if you build a huge pile of matchsticks — even though they are small and seemingly insignificant — and set them all on fire, that fire is going to make a big difference,” Bishop da Cunha said. “And you know what? The wind is now going to become a source of nourishment — it’s going to feed the fire instead of blowing it out. Think about that. If you think your little fire is small and is not going to make a difference, let us put all our fires together
Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., welcomed hundreds of diocesan faithful to the 2018 Women and Men’s Conference at Stonehill College, encouraging them all to “set the diocese on fire,” echoing this year’s conference theme: “Be on Fire — Set the World on Fire.” (Photo by Deacon Alan Thadeu)
and see what happens.” To further support the day’s theme, a vibrant image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, painted by the late Father Stanley Kolasa, SS.CC., longtime director of the Sacred Hearts Retreat House in Wareham,
was carried in and displayed on stage throughout the day. According to Deacon Bruce Bonneau, the conference committee picked the image as a symbol of the “Be on Fire — Set the Turn to page 19
OFFICIAL His Excellency, the Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D., Bishop of Fall River, has announced the following appointment: Reverend John M. Schrader, Associate Director of Vocations and Seminarians while remaining Parochial Vicar of Saint Mary’s Parish in Mansfield. Effective: March 9, 2018 The Anchor - March 23, 2018
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Friday 23 March 2018 — Homeport: Falmouth Harbor — OK Day* went to have my hearing tested. I suspected I was missing some of what people were saying to me in ordinary daily conversation. After the hearing test results were in, I met with the audiologist. “Your hearing is normal,” he diagnosed, “for someone your age.” Someone my age? Really? It was later explained to me that it wasn’t so much my ability to hear as it was the amount of words to which my ears were being exposed. There were so many words being sent in my general direction that it was difficult to take them all in. It was about listening, not about hearing. That sounded so much better than saying I had aging ears. It’s important for Church leaders to have
I
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Can you hear me now?
well-developed listening “How about a handrail?” skills. People often have she suggested. Good idea! something constructive Two handrails were in to say, if we are willing place within the week. I to listen. There are a lot sometimes use the handof good ideas out there. I rail myself. (Seems the know this from personal rest of me is aging along experience. with my ears). In one parish in which Here in the Diocese of I served, a parishioner Fall River, there’s a whole came up with an idea to lot of listening going hold an annual parish festival to The Ship’s Log help raise muchReflections of a needed funds. It Parish Priest sounded like a fine idea. ParishBy Father Tim ioners worked Goldrick together on the event over the course of several years. The festival grew on. Listening is a crucial bigger and bigger. The part of all phases of the parish debt was paid off “Rebuilding in Faith and sooner rather than later. Hope” initiative. First, usIdeas can also be quite ing a variety of methods, simple. For example, one parish needs and resourcelderly parishioner (a lec- es were assessed. This led tor) mentioned she was to a clearer understanding concerned about falling of the various communiwhile climbing the two ties that together comsteps into the Sanctuary. prise the Diocese of Fall River. Now it’s all about the diocese itself. An important component of understanding the Diocesan Church is a series of seven “listening sessions” being held, at the request of the bishop, in all regions of the diocese. Two sessions have already taken place. Five more forums are scheduled for the month of April. These gatherings are on a scale unprecedented in the history of the diocese. All 288,000 diocesan Catholics are invited to participate. The topic, as I understand it, is “How can diocesan organizations better serve the needs of the people of Southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod, and the Is-
The Anchor - March 23, 2018
lands?” Times are changing. Recent studies have indicated several areas of ministry and outreach are in need of improvement. The questions now are, firstly, is the information correct and, if so, what can be done about it? How can the diocese reinvent itself to better meet those identified needs? This is an invitation to share your ideas. It’s open mic night with the bishop. The purpose of a diocese is to serve its parishes, not the other way around. The diocese is in listening mode. Listening sessions are a valuable resource for enhanced communication. They can help to identify and solve problems. These sessions give people of diverse backgrounds from different areas of the diocese a chance to offer input. Listening sessions are a major step in understanding our Diocesan Community’s needs and resources. But listening sessions by themselves won’t solve a blessed thing. Solutions will involve people throughout the diocese rolling up their sleeves and working together at the task. Remember that old story of “Whose Job Is It, Anyway?” There was an important job to be done. Four people got together to tackle the task. One was named Everybody, one named Somebody, one named Nobody, and the fourth was named Anybody. Everybody was sure
that Somebody would do it. Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it. Somebody got angry about that, because it was Everybody’s job. Everybody thought Anybody could do it, but Nobody realized that Everybody wouldn’t do it. It ended up that Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have done. This can happen in any organization, including the Church. If no one takes responsibility, nothing gets accomplished. In the Roman Catholic tradition, of course, the bishop is ultimately responsible, but he does not act unilaterally in such important matters. Thus, the bishop is hosting listening sessions. Meanwhile, dear readers, here in the Town of Falmouth we are continuing to move “from maintenance to mission.” The pastors of all three parishes are appointing a Parish Planning Committee in each of their respective parishes. Those three Parish Planning Committees will be joining together to strategize the future growth of the Catholic presence in all of Falmouth. On the diocesan and parish levels, we’re all ears. *Note: “OK” f irst appeared on this day in 1839. It was based on a tongue-in-cheek misspelling of “All Correct” as “Oll Korrect,” abbreviated as “s,” in The Boston Morning Post. Anchor columnist Father Goldrick is pastor of St. Patrick’s Parish in Falmouth.
Diocese creating a pre-k to grade 12 school on Cape HYANNIS — St. Margaret Regional School in Buzzards Bay will join with St. Francis Xavier Preparatory School and St. John Paul II High School in Hyannis to create one pre-kindergarten to grade 12 school. Students in pre-k to grade four will stay at St. Margaret Regional School while students in grades five to eighth will move to join St. Francis Xavier Preparatory School effective July 1. “This new realignment along with strategic investments in the St. Margaret Regional School’s facility and in the education program will strengthen and advance the overall mission of Catholic school education on Cape Cod” stated the Diocese of Fall River Superintendent of Schools Steve Perla. Under the new structure Christopher Keavy, current
St. John Paul II High School Head of School, will provide leadership across all grade levels and oversee a principal at each campus. In addition to the reorganization, St. Margaret Regional School Principal Joyce Allison-Saucier has resigned. Perla expressed his gratitude for Allison-Saucier’s dedication saying; “I would like to thank Mrs. Allison-Saucier for her 24 years of service to the St. Margaret Regional School community as a teacher and principal. We are deeply grateful to her for her commitment to the students and families of St. Margaret Regional School during these many years.” Dr. George Milot, former superintendent of Catholic schools for the Diocese of Fall River, has been appointed interim principal of St. Margaret Regional School.
Milot has more than 36 years of service in Catholic school education as a teacher, principal, and superintendent. Perla recently met with faculty and staff to inform them of the reorganization. Parents and families were notified by email and also invited to attend a parents’ meeting at St. Margaret Regional School on March 8 with Perla, Milot, and Keavy. Recognizing that this new plan has implications for St. Margaret Regional School students and families, the Catholic Schools Office has taken steps to mitigate tuition, transportation, and educational concerns. Details regarding the implementation of this reorganization and the support that will be provided to families were given at the March 8 meeting and in ongoing written communication.
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Tenebrae set for Wednesday of Holy Week
FALL RIVER — A special prayer service called Tenebrae is held each year on the Wednesday evening of Holy Week at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Fall River. This year, it will take place on Wednesday, March 28, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Rooted in monastic tradition, this service of readings, psalms and hymns begins in the light which eventually fades into darkness as the candles in the Sanctuary are gradually extinguished. The word Tenebrae is Latin for “darkness” or “shadows.” Christians of all denominations and their clergy are invited to participate as a means of sharing worship during these holy days when the focus of all the followers of Jesus Christ is on His passion, death and Resurrection. Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., of the Fall River Diocese will preside at the service and by custom a minister from another Christian denomination will preach. Clergy are welcome to enter the Sacristy chapel of the cathedral to vest according to their own tradition and to participate in the procession.
Strengthening Taunton Catholic schools
Taunton — To strengthen Catholic school education in Taunton, the Diocese of Fall River’s Catholic School leaders are taking a number of short- and long-term steps. In the short-term, St. Mary Primary School is being closed at the end of this school year. St. Mary Primary School families are being encouraged to enroll their children in Our Lady of Lourdes School in Taunton to form one pre-k to grade four school. Coyle and Cassidy High School and Middle School will add grade five starting July 1 and continue to serve Catholic school students in grades six through 12. “The decision to close St. Mary Primary School, although extraordinarily difficult, we believe will result in a stronger Catholic school educational program for all of the elementary school students in Taunton,” said Steve Perla, superintendent of schools for the Diocese of Fall River. “Through these steps we are developing a seamless pre-kindergarten to grade 12 system (to be housed at two campuses), which will greatly benefit all of Taunton Catholic school students.” During the past five years, the Taunton Catholic schools have experienced a significant decline in enrollment resulting in considerable financial challenges. Also, serious building issues at St. Mary Primary School have necessitated that these immediate short-term steps be taken to ensure a viable and sustainable future. 12
The Anchor - March 23, 2018
The Leadership Teams of St. Mary Primary School and Our Lady of Lourdes Schools have been working to ensure a smooth transition for all students. Activities and events are being planned for this spring to unite the two school communities into one new school community. Current Our Lady of Lourdes School’s tuition rates will apply for all families who enroll from St. Mary Primary School to Our Lady of Lourdes School. Coyle and Cassidy High School and Middle School is also working intentionally with students transitioning to grade five to help them adjust to the change. Grade five will remain a self-contained classroom. First priority will be granted to those students from St. Mary Primary School and Our Lady of Lourdes School who wish to enroll in Coyle and Cassidy High School and Middle School’s grade five program. For those students, the grade five tuition at Coyle and Cassidy High School and Middle School will be equivalent to Our Lady of Lourdes School’s tuition. In the long-term, a Visioning Committee will be established to work with diocesan Catholic school leaders to develop a road map for the future of Catholic school education in Taunton. The committee will be comprised of 15 key stakeholders representing leadership, faculty, parents, students, and key philanthropists. The committee will be convened in May 2018.
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The Anchor - March 23, 2018
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Diocese of Fall River TV Mass on WLNE Channel 6 Palm Sunday March 25, 11:00 a.m.
Celebrant is Msgr. Stephen J. Avila, pastor of St. Anthony’s Parish in North Falmouth
Listing toward the west
egend has it that the pine tree that was bowled saying, “Say it ain’t over by a Nor’easter several so, Joe,” came from Shoeless years ago. Joe Jackson of the Chicago Besides being pleasing to White Sox who purportthe eye in the summer, my edly admitted to being part little maple holds my two of throwing the 1919 World bird-feeders which draw all Series, allowing the Cincintypes of feathered friends for nati Reds to win. a free meal. As far as I understand, Joe The last Nor’easters have always denied it and was in taken a toll on my poor little fact acquitted of the charges. buddy. With saturated soil Regardless of the origin, I surrounding it and the relentmust shout out, “Say it ain’t less pounding of northeast so!!!” At press time the foregales, the maple is listing cast for Southeastern Massachusetts is for the fourth Nor’easter My View in four weeks, with From 8-12 inches of snow the Stands predicted. And for good measure, there By Dave Jolivet is a chance of another storm this weekend. Too much of a good thing is about 70 degrees to the west. not good. Too much of a bad The last storm had the thing is even worse. added benefit of about 16 In his Easter Message inches of snow to go along on page one of this week’s with northeast gales — not Anchor, Bishop Edgar M. da a good combination for a Cunha, S.D.V., tells the faith- vulnerable sapling. ful there is a reason why the During the height of the beauty of summer morphs March 13 blizzard, thanks to into the lifeless winter. The a tip from a Facebook friend, trees become bare for a I trekked out in snow drifts purpose, one of which is, “The up to my waist to aid and leaves fall to keep branches abet my mauled maple to from breaking with the heavy knock the heavy, wet snow snows of winter.” amassed on its branches. Igor I couldn’t help but think of wisely opted to watch from one particular tree when read- the window. ing the bishop’s message. Just I grabbed a three-foot outside our home is a wonlong one-by-four and gently derful Japanese Maple tree. whacked the limbs, which A fledgling at that, planted at once sprung to life, again only a couple of years ago to pointing skyward instead replace a marvelous 40-foot of assuming some awkward
yoga position. With each swipe the tree rebounded. Yet, one cannot knock the snow off a tree with a three-foot plank without assuming the fallen burden. By the time I had finished my flora CPR, I was covered with heavy, wet snow and found myself listing toward the west. But, unlike my maple, I was able to unburden myself. I braced the tree with the board to give some added support against the gales. While I was out there, I filled the bird feeders so my feathered friends would have food following the storm. I hadn’t made it back in the house when wrens, juncos, cardinals, and turtle doves plowed their way through the wind-driven snow to the two drive-throughs swaying on the leaning tower of bird seed. I was cold and I was wet, but I also felt pretty good about saving my Japanese Maple until it can be properly braced, and for providing some comfort food for the birds on a cold snowy day. But tomorrow’s another day — and another storm. I’m ready though, with a full bag of bird seed and a trusty three-foot long one-by-four. I only wish the tree and birds could help me shovel out my car. davejolivet@anchornews.org
Easter Sunday April 1 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Celebrant is Fall River Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., Bishop of the Diocese of Fall River
The Anchor - March 23, 2018
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For and About Our Church Youth 2018 Diocesan Pro-Life Essay Winners ‘Be Not Afraid’ High School Division First Place
High School Division Second Place
In 1999, my birth mother in China was “NOT AFRAID,” she was unable to take care of me so she placed me at the steps of a police station. I was taken to an orphanage where I remained for seven years. How brave she was to risk punishment for abandoning me. My birth mother was not afraid to do what was right to save her child. She knew that life is important and must be cherished. My adoptive parents were “NOT AFRAID.” They knew God was leading them to me. My new life in America led me to a deep and loving relationship with God. My family pointed me in the direction of a deeper understanding of God’s love for me. I think back to how I lived my first seven years as a young child without a family and love. Now, I realize that I was never alone. God whispered to me, “Be not afraid.” There was always a voice inside me that gave me strength. It was God! I am now a young adult who is “NOT AFRAID.” My faith and love of the Catholic Church is my identity. There is no better feeling than to be with God and my Church family. It is such a wonderful feeling of peace to be in the arms of God along with those who share the faith. “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. So that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect” (Rom 12:2). Many of our brothers and sisters today do not believe that the moment of conception must be respected as the beginning of life. Our society has become so selfcentered that a new life has no value. If I could get the opportunity to speak to these people I would tell them “Be Not Afraid,” God is with you and will guide you and help you to realize that every life is important. Every life is a reflection of God’s great love. I have just returned from the “Love Saves Lives” ProLife March in Washington D.C. It was such an emotional experience to be with thousands of people who know that God’s love saves us all. I know from experience that God’s love has saved me and I know in my heart that God’s love is there for everyone. We just need to reach out and open our hearts to His unending love. “Be Not Afraid.” Stand up for your faith. Stand up for your values. Stand up for yourself. God wants us to stand up for life from conception to natural death. “Be Not Afraid!”
It is easy to say that we live in a world dominated by fear. Many of these fears stem from issues that threaten the rights of the individual. There are global fears of terrorist attacks, the decisions of world leaders, poverty, trafficking, and other catastrophes. In our own country, we see hatred between individuals, based on the factors that make them unique. Perhaps some of the most vivid examples of fear that we can find are the ones we experience on a daily basis. We profess our ProLife beliefs, and yet we fear the rejection of peers, superiors, and even family. Sometimes there might be doubt arising from within, telling us that it would be better to abandon said beliefs, professing the lies of the culture, the media, and those who possess power and status. As we are reminded by Scripture, however, God does not forsake us in our everyday plights, especially in defending the dignity of life. As it was written in Scripture: “Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” ( Jos 1:9). The struggle to defend life has been a prevalent part of my life. My Catholic upbringing has taught me much about the dignity of life, from conception until natural death. It has prepared me for some of the opposition I have faced in professing such beliefs. An example of this can be found when I have defended my own family from criticism. I am the oldest of seven children, which is seen as uncommon and even outrageous in modern culture. People remark upon the very existence of my siblings and I, stating how outrageous the college costs will be for us someday, or even questioning my parents’ forward thinking at their choice to accept life. They refuse to see my siblings and I as gifts of life, and rather as burdens. Other times, I am questioned by peers as to why I am so vocal in my Pro-Life beliefs, with some even shunning me because we differ in our views of the subject. Admittedly, I have been afraid at times to express my beliefs openly, fearing the rejection of others. I am reminded by these peers, the strangers that address my family, and society itself, that it would be easier to remove that fear from my life, and follow the lies of the culture of death. Despite this, I must remember, as must we all, that we not only defend life, but fight against the fear that causes others to choose death through abortion. St. John Paul II noted the struggle and fear that surrounds the decision to choose life or end it through abortion in the encyclical Evangelium Vitae, when he stated: “Decisions that go against life sometimes arise from difficult or even tragic situations of profound suffering, loneliness, a total lack of economic prospects, depression and anxiety about the future” (St. John Paul II, “Evangelium Vitae.” Vatican: the Holy See. Vatican Website. Libreria Editrice Vaticana, 1995. http://w2.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_jp-ii_ enc_25031995_evangelium-vitae.html). Mothers who face such a decision may be afraid of rejection, loss, and otherwise unpredictable and sorrowful situations. These mothers may not have someone to tell them that God is with them, and that they have nothing to fear. They may not know of the dignity of life, or recognize its value. This is the mission of the Pro-Life movement: to spread the culture of life wherever we are, and vanquish the fear caused by the culture of death. We must not be silenced by fear. Instead, must move forward with the courage that God gives us, and the knowledge that we speak the truth to the world.
Alexa Paige St. John Paul II High School, Hyannis, Grade 11 Holy Trinity Parish, West Harwich 16
The Anchor - March 23, 2018
Sonja Morin Bishop Connolly High School, Fall River, Grade 10 Holy Name Parish, Fall River
For and About Our Church Youth 2018 Diocesan Pro-Life Essay Winners ‘Be Not Afraid’ Elementary School Division First Place
Elementary School Division Second Place
Have you ever thought how much a single life is worth? John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” This may be a common Bible verse, but it shows a human life is worth our Savior’s blood. If a life was not worth God’s sacrifice of His Son, He would not have made us in His image. Our world today disrespects life by practicing euthanasia, suicide, and abortion. Every year in the United States alone, far too many people lose their lives annually due to mercy killings, suicides and the abortions of innocent children. God created a perfect world that sin demolished with lying, selfishness, and murder out of convenience. Many people don’t comprehend their worth and decide to take their own or another’s life. When a life is taken, it is an interference with God’s Divine plan. Every person is a thread in God’s tapestry. John 13:7 says, “You don’t understand what I am doing, but someday you will.” This means you may be going through a problematic part in life, but all our suffering and works lead us toward the glory of God. We must have faith that God is there for us. We know faith is worthwhile because Romans 8:28 tells us, “We know that for those who love God, all things work together for good for those who are called according to His purpose.” Many in this society feel when a patient is old or is mentally unstable, euthanasia is an option. But Exodus 23:7 advises, “Have nothing to do with false charge and do not put an innocent or honest person to death, for I will not acquit the guilty.” Murder, under any circumstance, healthy or not is against God’s will. My grandmother had dementia for five years before she died. In her last week of life she was basically unresponsive unless we asked her if she wanted to pray. When she said yes, she would get up and fold her weak hands and pray. She was strong until the end even when everyone thought she was not understanding her surroundings. She had faith her whole life and is now in Heaven. You must believe that everyone is a valuable soul God created. In conclusion, life is precious. Love God because He first loved us. To love God is to not be afraid but to trust His plan to value life at every stage. Cherish His amazing creation and respect the life He has given us and others.
Fear, a natural human instinct. To encounter fear on a daily basis, at some level, is completely in the norm. Whether it be a spider, heights, or snakes, everyone has something they are afraid of. However, with faith, every fear, horror, or anxiety can be wiped away by the hands of Jesus. God can derive serenity and strength from the depths of everyone’s greatest fears. Being Pro-Life means to trust in God throughout all your life, from conception to natural death, knowing that God is protecting you. Even though fear is very real, it can be conquered by having faith in love, especially the love of Jesus. By having trust that Jesus will love and protect you, nothing is impossible. Although this is easier said than done, the love God has for everyone is crucial. The decision of an abortion can be a choice to love and preserve life or a choice full of fear and lack of faith that terminates an innocent life. This choice of love and acceptance of God’s plan may seem hard, but one’s faithfulness to God does not go unnoticed. Whether it be the single mother working three jobs to feed her children or the dying elderly woman, everyone could learn something from the Scripture, “Do not fear: I am with you.” This quote from Isaiah reminds everyone that God will never leave their side. Through the sadness of fear, God shows His unending love. Through an unwanted pregnancy, a mother makes the choice of life and finds the greatest love. Through an elderly woman dying, she is no longer suffering and in the arms of Jesus. All life is precious, so it must be protected. Even if there is fear, that is not a valid excuse for a human to make decisions regarding another’s life. This is why society must understand that through fear beautiful things can occur. Many others stand with the movement of loving life. Just this year there were thousands of people at the March for Life in Washington D.C., who all came to advocate for those who do not have a voice. I was one of those people. That is why I am able to say that life is going to be victorious in a culture of death. I am the Pro-Life generation. Kara Koska All Saints Catholic Middle School, New Bedford, Grade 8 Holy Name of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, New Bedford
Katherine White Coyle and Cassidy Junior High School, Taunton Grade 8
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For and About Our Church Youth
Middle school students from Espirito Santo School in Fall River prepared to work with the pre-school students for community service.
St. John the Evangelist School in Attleboro recently hosted a Day of Service to Others. The students all participated in services that would help the community in some way. Kindergarten and pre-k made potpourri sachets which were given to Garden Place Nursing Home. First- and second-graders made place mats and Valentine cards which were given to Christopher Heights and Life Care Center. Third- and fourth-graders made homemade dog biscuits which were given to the Attleboro Animal Shelter. Eighth-graders made 10 Birthday Boxes which were given to a children’s shelter. The boxes contained gifts and elements to have a birthday party. Given to the Food-n-Friends Soup Kitchen were 138 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and 50 place mats made by the seventhgraders. Fifth- and sixth-graders decorated paper bags, bagged the sandwiches into the bags and also inserted a bag of chips, cookies and candy. Shown are seventh-graders making the sandwiches.
Students at St. James-St. John School in New Bedford recently offered walking Stations of the Cross during Lent.
Bishop Stang High School students attended a Lenten assembly with Father Louis Merosne, right, who lives in Haiti and has a mission called “Mission to the Beloved,” which preaches the Gospel and helps the poor in Haiti. Father Louis shared his mission work in regards to the school’s 2017-18 theme, “Caring for God’s Creation.” Students were inspired by his message and work in Haiti.
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The Anchor - March 23, 2018
John Greer, a junior at St. John Paul II High School, has earned the highest possible ACT composite score of 36. On average, approximately one-tenth of one percent of students who take the ACT earn a top score. In the U.S. high school graduating class of 2017, only 2,760 out of more than two million graduates who took the ACT earned a composite score of 36. The ACT consists of tests in English, mathematics, reading and science, each scored on a scale of 1–36. A student’s composite score is the average of the four test scores. Here Head of School Christopher W. Keavy congratulates Greer.
Hundreds return for second Women and Men’s Conference continued from page nine
World on Fire” theme. “You’ll notice, if you come up to it closely, there are so many streams of bright and colorful light bursting forth from the heart of Jesus — shades of powerful and yet subtle strokes of paint, merging and overlapping,” Deacon Bonneau said. “But the unique character of this painting are the little specks which are scattered and punctuated throughout.” These sparkling specks of light were comprised of bits of broken Christmas ornaments from his childhood that Father Kolasa had long treasured. When these tangible reminders of his parents were found broken one day, he decided to reuse them in a powerful way. “He figured they might be of value someday and they were certainly of value to his heart,” Deacon Bonneau said. “The sparkles and the chips in the reflection of the painting are the fragments taken from those crushed and broken Christmas ornaments. They make up the texture of the painting and, if you see the original, they actually pro-
trude from the canvas itself, but are always held together by the heart of Jesus.” The conference was held once again within the confines of the Stonehill College gymnasium, where half of the complex’s floor space was dedicated to a series of vendors from throughout the Fall River Diocese and beyond, while the other half was reserved for the day’s keynote speakers. Among them: Father Dave Dwyer, a Paulist priest who hosts “The Busted Halo Show” on SiriusXM’s The Catholic Channel; Father Anthony Ciorra, Ph.D., vice president for Mission and Catholic identity at Sacred Heart University in Connecticut; Sister Marie Paul Curley, a Daughter of St. Paul and gifted multimedia artist; and, returning for her second consecutive year, ValLimar Jansen, the singer, composer and inspirational speaker who got everyone up and moving after morning prayer. The conference also provided opportunities for Eucharistic Adoration throughout the day, the Sacrament of Confession,
Father Anthony Ciorra, Ph.D., vice president for Mission and Catholic Identity at Sacred Heart University in Connecticut, gave a presentation at this year’s Women and Men’s Conference reflecting on his own amusing experiences growing up as an Italian-Catholic in New Jersey. (Photo by Kenneth J. Souza)
and closed with a special Liturgy celebrated by Bishop da Cunha. In his Mass homily, the bishop noted how this annual diocesan gathering, in the midst of Lent, was an ideal time for everyone to “come back home to the Father, to the Church, to
the community of faith.” “We talked a lot about fire today. I’m afraid we should call the firemen for each town now, because I don’t know what’s going to happen to some of our churches,” the bishop joked. “But it’s a fire that doesn’t destroy. It’s a fire that gives light, warmth, life — it’s the fire that we all need, the fire of the Holy Spirit.” And like those early Christians who started small and eventually spread the light — the fire of the Spirit — to the world, the bishop said diocesan faithful are called to do the same. “When we’re baptized, we receive a lighted candle placed in our hands,” Bishop da Cunha preached. “And the celebrant says: ‘Receive the light of Christ. This light is to be kept burning brightly for the rest of your lives.’ Have we kept that flame of the faith we received in Baptism burning brightly throughout our lives? Probably there have been moments when the light went out. We may have had a strong wind of evil and wickedness and selfishness that blew and extinguished the light. “But through (God’s) mercy and forgiveness, we
are brought back into the light. The light has been lit again and the flame of faith is once again burning brightly in our lives. So, my friends, don’t let that light go out. Keep that light burning brightly and let that light guide you, your faith, your actions, your decisions, your choices, and everything that we do to rebuild the Church — the Kingdom of God here in the Diocese of Fall River.”
Author, blogger and video producer Sister Marie Paul Curley, a Daughter of St. Paul, spoke at the 2018 conference about some of the ways we can take advantage of today’s technology and social media to enhance our understanding of the faith and connect with others. (Photo by Terry Breton)
Paulist priest Father Dave Dwyer, director of Busted Halo Ministries and host of “The Busted Halo Show” on SiriusXM’s Catholic Channel, spoke at this year’s conference and offered some amusing insight on how Catholics can become complacent about practicing their faith and reluctant to share that belief with others. (Photo by Kenneth J. Souza) The Anchor - March 23, 2018
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Jesuits to provide support ministry to diocesan priests continued from page eight
are sick, they help people in time of grief — they know how to minister and we’re not here to help them become ministers. The hope of what Boston College wants to offer is to walk with them as brothers and say: ‘Who’s caring for you?’” Among the facilitators spearheading the program is Father Jack Siberski, S.J., a trained medical doctor and licensed psychiatrist, who will be offering basic evaluations and short-term counseling to priests. “This program isn’t set up to be a treatment center or facility, but (Father Siberski) has had some excellent training and he’s putting himself at the service of his brother priests,”
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Father Butler said. “He was an internist for many, many years before he went and became a psychiatrist. He loves being a doctor and what we’ve found, even with our own guys, is they will go to him and talk about some of their emotional concerns and we can then refer them out as needed.” According to Father John C. Monahan, S.J., director of Ministry to Priests, they also will be providing Spiritual care in the form of Spiritual direction, monthly support group meetings, monthly prayer meetings, and annual retreats and sabbaticals — much of which can be held at Bellarmine House, a Jesuit-owned retreat center located within
The Anchor - March 23, 2018
the Archdiocese of Boston. “Right now, we have the use of the former Jesuit villa on the water in Cohasset,” Father Monahan said. “It’s a spectacular location — a very quiet and prayerful place. We’d like to offer it as a place to pray, to relax, to enjoy a good meal, for support groups to meet, and to offer days of reflection and annual retreats. One of the goals is to make you feel cared for and valued and to have opportunities to deepen your relationship with God. We want to provide the same pastoral care to you that you provide to the people of your parish and we want to offer you quiet time for relaxation and reflection.” Noting how the increasing challenges and demands of Roman Catholic clergy today have
frequently caused burnout, stress, fatigue and deep discouragement among many priests, Father Butler hopes the Ministry to Priests can provide a much-needed respite and an opportunity for Spiritual renewal. “The Jesuits have been lucky over the years to be in high schools and colleges,” Father Butler said. “They are environments where conflict isn’t really much a part of our life. You dedicate yourselves to the people of God, on the front lines. You hear the pain, the struggles, the sufferings and you get the complaints and you get the jokes. You take the brunt of the sexual abuse crisis; you take the brunt of secularism; you take the brunt of a lack of faith; you take the brunt of running two or three churches; you take the brunt of doing the work of what was once (given
to) two or three pastoral associates. “If nothing else, please know you have our thanks. And this Jesuit, as long as we have this program, is committed to working with the priests in the diocese. If you need Spiritual direction, we’ll provide that for you. We can relieve you sometimes in your parish and send somebody to help you. Resources at BC and our faculty and our properties can be shared, because we want to pack your parishes. We want to lift you up and say we know it’s tiresome and it’s hard, but we appreciate it and we’ll walk with you — so let’s renew each other.” While the Fall River Diocese is the first-ever beneficiary of the Ministry to Priests program, Father Butler said they hope to offer it “to other New England bishops as we go forward.” “But the reality is we haven’t put the program together in an ironclad form yet,” he said. “We want to listen to what the priests need and want first and then use the resources we have at BC and whatever experience we have to help.” “I just want to say how grateful we are to Boston College and the Jesuit community for the beginning of what I hope will be a long journey together in helping one another,” Bishop da Cunha said. “I’m so grateful and inspired to see so many of you here today. As diocesan priests, we are not a religious community, so many of us live alone. But because we live alone, it doesn’t mean we have to be alone. I think we’re all here today to say we’re not alone — we have to take care of each other and support each other.”
In Your Prayers Please Please pray pray for for these these priests priests during during the the coming coming weeks weeks
March 24 Rev. John J. Murphy, C.S.C., 2004
March 25 Rev. John J. Brennan, SS.CC., Retired Founder, Holy Redeemer, Chatham, 1991 Deacon Thomas Prevost, 2007 March 27 Rev. James W. Conlin, Pastor, St. Patrick, Somerset, 1918 Rev. Msgr. Antonio P. Vieira, Pastor, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, New Bedford, 1964 Rev. Richard W. Beaulieu, Former Diocesan Director of Education, Former Pastor, Notre Dame de Lourdes, Fall River, 2007 March 28 Rev. Alfred J. Levesque, Pastor, St. Jacques, Taunton, 1960 Rev. Bernard A. Lavoie,Chaplain, Catholic Memorial Home, Fall River, 1972 Rev. Dieudonne Masse, OFM, Retired, Montreal, Canada, 1983 Rev. Howard A. Waldron, Retired Pastor, St. Thomas More, Somerset, 1985 March 29 Rev. James H. Carr, S.T.L., Assistant, St. Patrick, Fall River, 1923 Rev. Msgr. Edward J. Moriarty, Pastor, St. Patrick, Fall River, 1951 March 30 Rev. Aime Barre, On Sick Leave, Fall River, 1963 Rev. Benoit R. Galland, USN Retired Chaplain, 1985 Rev. Lucio B. Phillipino, Retired Pastor, Immaculate Conception, North Easton, 2002 Rev. Robert F. Kirby, Catholic Memorial Home, Retired Pastor, St. Theresa of the Child Jesus, South Attleboro, 2015 March 31 Rt. Rev. Msgr. George C. Maxwell, Pastor, SS. Peter & Paul, Fall River, 1953 April 1 Rev. George A. Lewin, Pastor, St. Mary, Hebronville, 1958 Rev. Edwin J. Loew, Pastor, St. Joseph, Woods Hole, 1974 April 2 Rev. Adolph Banach, OFM Conv., Pastor, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, New Bedford, 1961 Rev. Donald Belanger, Pastor, St. Stephen, Attleboro, 1976 Rev. James B. Coyle, Retired Pastor, St. Dorothea, Eatontown, N.J., 1993 April 3 Rev. Henry F. Kinnerny, Former Pastor, St. Peter, Sandwich, 1905 Rev. Roger G. Blain, O.P., 2000 Rev. Clarence P. Murphy, Former Pastor, Our Lady of the Assumption, Osterville, 2010 April 4 Rev. Lionel Gamache, S.M.M., 1972 Rev. James F. McCarthy, Retired Pastor, Sacred Heart, Fall River, 1985 Rev. Gaspar L. Parente, Retired Pastor, St. Theresa, Patagonia, Ariz., 1991 April 6 Rev. Philip Lariscy, O.S.A. Founder of the New Bedford Mission, 1824 Rev. Edward J. Mongan, Retired Pastor, St. Mary, North Attleboro, 1920 Rev. Msgr. John A. Chippendale, Retired Pastor, St. Patrick, Wareham, 1977 Rev. Lorenzo Morais, Retired Pastor, St. George, Westport, 1980 Rev. Msgr. William D. Thomson, Retired Pastor, St. Francis Xavier, Hyannis, 1987 Rev. Gerald E. Conmy, CSC, Associate Pastor, St. Ann, DeBary, Fla., 1994 Rev. Msgr. Francis J. Gilligan, P.A. STD, Archdiocese of St. Paul, 1997 Rev. Lucien Jusseaume, Chaplain, Our Lady’s Haven, Fairhaven, Retired Pastor, St. Roch, Fall River, 2001
Editor’s note: The following letter, dated February 27, signed by the four Massachusetts Catholic bishops, was sent to Mass. Senators William N. Brownsberger, Cynthia Stone Creem, and Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr; House Majority Leader Ronald Mariano; and Representatives Claire D. Cronin and Sheila C. Harrington. The letter was also CCd to Governor Charles D. Baker.
Re: Criminal Justice Reform
Dear Members of the Joint Conference Committee, We are pleased to learn that comprehensive criminal justice reform remains a top priority of Governor Baker along with the leadership of the House and Senate this legislative session. As members of the Joint Conference Committee tasked with addressing these complex issues, your responsibility cannot be overstated. That responsibility however presents you with the opportunity to craft legislation that will revolutionize how the legal system deals with certain types of criminal offenses. The legislation has the potential to benefit society as a whole and be life-changing to many individuals and families throughout this great Commonwealth. Issues such as eliminating certain mandatory minimum sentences, creating rehabilitation and reentry programs, providing service to those suffering from mental health struggles must be at the forefront of your discussions. We, the four Roman Catholic Bishops of Massachusetts, representing the Archdiocese of Boston along with the Dioceses of Fall River, Springfield, and Worcester fully support your work and urge you, and ultimately the full legislative body, to join together in the effort to pass this historic legislation. While the specific details of the reforms are best left for the Committee to craft, debate, and resolve, we want to take this opportunity to reaffirm and restate our previous public support for the criminal justice reform legislation for certain offenses. We respectfully ask you to consider the following: (1) Repeal the excessively long mandatory minimum jail sentences for non-violent drug convictions by empowering judges to hand down a sentence for offenders on a case by case basis and determined by the specific facts and circumstances of each case. (2) Promote, create and fund diversion to treatment programs rather than imprisonment for offenders suffering from substance abuse. This is particularly critical as we face the deadly and growing opioid abuse crises in Massachusetts. (3) Increase funding for both in-prison programs for drug abuse and mental health services, education and job training as well as reentry programs for job training, placement, drug treatment, mental health services and housing. (4) Reform the Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) system by reducing the period of time potential employers have access to an individual’s criminal records. The current system is designed to provide “roadblocks” to successful rehabilitation, employment opportunities and assimilation back into society by individuals attempting to turn their lives around. (5) Raise the threshold for felony larceny from its current level of $250 to a higher amount while retaining the ability to prosecute, fine, and imprison for misdemeanors under the higher threshold. When the circumstances of a criminal case dictate that an individual deserves a second chance he/she should get that chance. Families need to be united, not separated by bars. Rehabilitation services should be provided, not shunned. We urge you to continue the good work you are doing which ultimately will give more people more hope for a brighter future. Very truly yours, His Eminence Sean P. O’Malley, OFM Cap., Archbishop of Boston Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., Bishop of Fall River Most Reverend Mitchell T. Rozanski, Bishop of Springfield Most Reverend Robert J. McManus, Bishop of Worcester The Anchor - March 23, 2018
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Around the Diocese “Seeking the Peace of Forgiveness: A Morning Retreat for Women” will be held on Saturday, April 7 from 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon at St. Mary’s Church, 343 Tarkiln Hill Road in New Bedford. This morning retreat for women includes insightful and humorous presentations by Catholic author and inspirational speaker Allison Gingras. A continental breakfast will be served and the Sacrament of Reconciliation will be available. A freewill offering will be appreciated. For reservations or more information, contact Allison at reconciledtoyou@gmail.com or call 508-243-1133. Our Lady of the Cape Parish, 468 Stony Brook Road in Brewster, is hosting a Divine Mercy Celebration on Sunday, April 8, and all are welcome. Divine Mercy Sunday provides an opportunity to receive and celebrate the merciful love of God as revealed in Jesus. The celebration will take place as follows: Sacrament of Reconciliation, 1:30 to 3 p.m.; Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament at 2:50 p.m.; Chaplet of Divine Mercy in song, followed by Benediction and then veneration of a relic of St. Faustina at 3 p.m. The parish nurse program of St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Provincetown invites everyone to a program called “Palliative Care and Advance Care Planning” on Sunday, April 8 from 1 to 3 p.m. The program will be presented by Diane McCarthy from the Initiative Palliative Care Planning team of the Archdiocese of Boston. It is an education program presented from the Catholic point of view. For more information call Eileen Cabral, Faith Community Nurse, at 508-487-1630. Divine Mercy Sunday will be celebrated at St. Patrick’s Parish, 82 High Street in Wareham, on April 8 at 2:30 p.m. featuring the Chaplet with Benediction and a special Divine Mercy presentation and performance by Marty Rotella, international speaker, singer, songwriter and musician. Refreshments will be served inside the parish hall followed by Marty Rotella in concert from 4 to 5 p.m. in the church. Freewill offerings are appreciated and all are welcome. An Introduction to the Poustinia Experience led by Anna Rae-Kelly, OCDS, will be held on Wednesday, April 11 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the La Salette Retreat Center in Attleboro. Do you feel beckoned by God to encounter Him in silence, solitude, and prayer? The word “poustinia” is Russian for “desert.” In the silent chamber within our being, a poustinia allows the seeking soul to stand utterly still, to give permission to the God within our being to ignite His flame of love as we contemplate Him. To register for this introduction to the poustinia experience, call 508-222-8530 or visit www. lasaletteretreatcenter.com. A Healing Mass will be held April 12 at St. Andrew the Apostle Church, 19 Kilmer Avenue, Taunton. It will begin at 6 p.m. with recitation of the Holy Rosary and will include the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Mass will begin at 6:30 p.m. and will conclude with healing prayers and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. All welcome. For location information visit standrewtaunton@comcast.net or call the office at 508-824-5577. The reunion committee is seeking members of the Class of 1968 at Mount St. Mary’s Academy for its 50th reunion, to be held at the Cove Restaurant in Fall River on June 22. Interested graduates should contact Judi (DePaola) Boardman at mom@team508.org. The Third Order of Carmelites meets on the third Sunday of the month at Christ the King Parish in Mashpee for 10:30 a.m. Mass followed by a teaching in Room A and daytime prayer in St. Jude’s Chapel. They meet every Sunday at 6:30 p.m. in St. Jude’s Chapel for evening prayer. All are welcome. For more information about the Lay Carmelite Order of St. John of the Cross, contact Dottie Cawley at 508-477-2798. Renew the faith and rekindle the Spirit with “Holy Cross Landings.” If you have been away for a while, Holy Cross Parish in Easton invites you back to join them. For more information, visit www.holycrosseaston.org or call Harold Smith at 508-238-1899.
To submit an event for consideration in The Anchor’s “Around the Diocese” listing, send the information by email to kensouza@anchornews.org
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Eucharistic Adoration in the Diocese Acushnet — Eucharistic Adoration takes place at St. Francis Xavier Parish on Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Evening prayer and Benediction is held Monday through Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. ASSONET — Beginning September 14, St. Bernard’s Parish will have Eucharistic Adoration every Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The Blessed Sacrament will be exposed on the altar at the conclusion of 9 a.m. Mass and the church will be open all day, concluding with evening prayer and Benediction at 6:30 p.m. ATTLEBORO — Eucharistic Adoration takes place in the Adoration Chapel at St. Vincent de Paul Parish, 71 Linden Street, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. ATTLEBORO — The National Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette holds Eucharistic Adoration in the Shrine Church every Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. through November 17. ATTLEBORO — There is a weekly time of Eucharistic Adoration Wednesdays from 7-9 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church on North Main Street. Brewster — Eucharistic Adoration takes place in the La Salette Chapel in the lower level of Our Lady of the Cape Church, 468 Stony Brook Road, on First Fridays beginning at noon until 7:45 a.m. First Saturday, concluding with Benediction and concluding with Mass at 8 a.m. buzzards Bay — Eucharistic Adoration takes place at St. Margaret Church, 141 Main Street, Monday through Saturday, from 6:30 to 8 a.m.; and every first Friday from noon to 8 a.m. on Saturday. East Freetown — Eucharistic Adoration takes place at St. John Neumann Church every Monday (excluding legal holidays) 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the Our Lady, Mother of All Nations Chapel. (The base of the bell tower). EAST TAUNTON — Eucharistic Adoration takes place in the chapel at Holy Family Parish Center, 438 Middleboro Avenue, Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. On First Fridays, Eucharistic Adoration takes place at Holy Family Church, 370 Middleboro Avenue, from 8:30 a.m. until 7:45 p.m. FAIRHAVEN — St. Mary’s Church, Main St., has Eucharistic Adoration every Wednesday from 8:30-11:30 a.m. in the Chapel of Reconciliation, with Benediction at 11:30 a.m. Also, there is a First Friday Mass each month at 7 p.m., followed by a Holy Hour with Eucharistic Adoration. Refreshments follow. FALL RIVER — St. Anthony of Padua Church, on the corner of Bedford and Sixteenth streets, has Eucharistic Adoration accompanied by music and prayer every first Wednesday of the month from 6-7 p.m. FALL RIVER — St. Bernadette’s Church, 529 Eastern Ave., has continuous Eucharistic Adoration from 8 a.m. on Thursday until 8 a.m. on Saturday. FALL RIVER — St. Anthony of the Desert Church, 300 North Eastern Avenue, has Eucharistic Adoration Mondays and Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. FALL RIVER — Holy Name Church, 709 Hanover Street, has Eucharistic Adoration Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the Our Lady of Grace Chapel. FALL RIVER — Good Shepherd Parish has Eucharistic Adoration every Friday following the 8 a.m. Mass and concluding with 3 p.m. Benediction in the Daily Mass Chapel. A bilingual holy hour takes place from 2 to 3 p.m. Park behind the church and enter the back door of the connector between the church and the rectory. FALL RIVER — St. Joseph’s Church has a Holy Hour every Tuesday from 6-7 p.m., with Benediction at 6:45 p.m. FALL RIVER — St. Michael’s Church has Eucharistic Adoration every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with Benediction at 5:30 p.m. Falmouth — St. Patrick’s Church has Eucharistic Adoration each First Friday following the 7 a.m. Mass, with Benediction at 4:30 p.m. HYANNIS — St. Francis Xavier Parish in Hyannis, 347 South Street, Hyannis, has Eucharistic Adoration from noon to 3 p.m., daily Monday through Friday. MANSFIELD — St. Mary’s Parish, 330 Pratt Street, has Eucharistic Adoration every First Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., with Benediction at 5:45 p.m. MASHPEE — Christ the King Parish, Route 151 and Job’s Fishing Road has 8:30 a.m. Mass every First Friday with special intentions for Respect Life, followed by 24 hours of Eucharistic Adoration in the Chapel, concluding with Benediction Saturday morning followed immediately by an 8:30 Mass. NEW BEDFORD — Eucharistic Adoration is held every Thursday, with Confessions, from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe at St. James Church. Please use the side entrance. NEW BEDFORD — There is a daily holy hour from 5:15-6:15 p.m. Monday through Thursday at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 1359 Acushnet Avenue. It includes Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, Liturgy of the Hours, recitation of the Rosary, and the opportunity for Confession. NEW BEDFORD — St. Lawrence Martyr Parish, 565 County Street, holds Eucharistic Adoration in the side chapel Fridays from 7:30-11:45 a.m. ending with a simple Benediction NORTH DARTMOUTH — Eucharistic Adoration takes place at St. Julie Billiart Church, 494 Slocum Road, every Tuesday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., ending with Benediction. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is available at this time. NORTH DIGHTON — Eucharistic Adoration takes place every Wednesday following 8:00 a.m. Mass and concludes with Benediction at 5 p.m. Eucharistic Adoration also takes place every First Friday at St. Nicholas of Myra Church, 499 Spring Street following the 8 a.m. Mass, ending with Benediction at 6 p.m. The Rosary is recited Monday through Friday from 7:30 to 8 a.m. NORTH EASTON — A Holy Hour for Families including Eucharistic Adoration is held every Friday from 3-4 p.m. at The Father Peyton Center, 518 Washington Street. NORTH EASTON — Eucharistic Adoration takes place at Immaculate Conception Church Chapel on the first Wednesday of the month beginning after the 8:30 a.m. Mass, until 6:40 p.m. Those wishing to make a monthly commitment can sign up on the parish website at www.icceaston.org or call the parish office at 508-238-3232. ORLEANS — St. Joan of Arc Parish, 61 Canal Road, has Eucharistic Adoration every First Friday starting after the 8 a.m. Mass and ending with Benediction at 11:45 a.m. The Sacrament of the Sick is also available immediately after the 8 a.m. Mass. SEEKONK — Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish has perpetual Eucharistic Adoration seven days a week, 24 hours a day in the chapel at 984 Taunton Avenue. For information call 508-336-5549. Taunton — Eucharistic Adoration takes place every Tuesday at St. Anthony Church, 126 School Street, following the 8 a.m. Mass with prayers including the Chaplet of Divine Mercy for vocations, concluding at 6 p.m. with Chaplet of St. Anthony and Benediction. Recitation of the Rosary for peace is prayed Monday through Saturday at 7:30 a.m. prior to the 8 a.m. Mass. Taunton — Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament takes place every First Friday at Annunciation of the Lord, 31 First Street. Exposition begins following the 8 a.m. Mass. The Blessed Sacrament will be exposed, and Adoration will continue throughout the day. Confessions are heard from 4:15 to 4:45 p.m. Rosary and Benediction begin at 5 p.m. WAREHAM — Eucharistic Adoration at St. Patrick’s Church takes place 9 a.m. Thursday through 7 p.m. Friday. Adoration is held in our Adoration Chapel in the lower Parish Hall. ~ PERPETUAL EUCHARISTIC ADORATION ~
East Sandwich — The Corpus Christi Parish Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration Chapel is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 324 Quaker Meeting House Road, East Sandwich. Use the Chapel entrance on the side of the church. NEW BEDFORD — Our Lady’s Chapel, 600 Pleasant Street, offers Eucharistic Adoration seven days a week, 24 hours a day. For information call 508-996-8274. SEEKONK — Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish has perpetual Eucharistic Adoration seven days a week, 24 hours a day in the chapel at 984 Taunton Avenue. For information call 508-336-5549. WEST HARWICH — Our Lady of Life Perpetual Adoration Chapel at Holy Trinity Parish, 246 Main Street (Rte. 28), holds perpetual Eucharistic Adoration. We are a regional chapel serving all of the surrounding parishes. All are invited to sign up to cover open hours. For open hours, or to sign up call 508-430-4716.
The Anchor - March 23, 2018
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The Anchor - March 23, 2018