08.19.11

Diocese of Fall River

The Anchor

F riday , August 19, 2011

Diocesan music workshop: Singing the Rite music

By Becky Aubut Anchor Staff

making all things rite — George Campeau, director of music ministries at Corpus Christi Parish in East Sandwich, leads the way through a section of the musical changes that will take place in the new English translation to the Roman Missal during a music workshop at the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption Parish in Fall River. (Photo by Rebecca Aubut)

FALL RIVER — Opening in prayer and most fittingly with music, the first of three workshops entitled “Singing the Rite Music” designed to help guide music directors through the new changes to the Roman Missal was held at the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption in Fall River.

Pope Paul VI promulgated the Roman Missal, the ritual text for the celebration of the Mass, in 1970 as the definitive text of the reformed Liturgy after the Second Vatican Council. That Latin text was translated into various languages for use around the world; the English edition was published in the United States in

1973 with the Holy See issuing an overall revised text in 1975. Pope John Paul II promulgated the third edition of the Roman Missal in 2000, which since then has been getting translated into English and other languages according to more precise translation norms in which the prayers of the Roman rite are expressed in a grammatical structure that closely follows the Latin text.

“We are entering into a new chapter,” said Msgr. Stephen J. Avila, pastor of St. Mary’s Parish in Mansfield, during his opening speech for the workshop.

“I know how vital music is to the parish community.”

Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan, the Turn to page 14

Mass. euthanasia petition submitted to attorney general

By Christine M. Williams Anchor Correspondent

BOSTON — Once again, euthanasia supporters are attempting to bring physician-assisted death to the Bay State. They hope to have the “Death With Dignity” petition amendment submitted to the attorney general’s office on August 8, and on the 2012 ballot.

Opponents of doctors cooperating in the suicide of a patient have readied themselves to fight the measure, which they say endangers the lives of vulnerable people who are ill, disabled or elderly.

“Literally, some people will be signing their own death warrants,” Kristian Mineau, president of the Massachusetts Family Institute, said about petition signers.

Mineau said such legislation would turn doctors into executioners.

“It’s a further erosion of the sanctity of life in our Commonwealth,” he added. “You talk about the slippery slope; this is

going off the cliff — morally.”

The Massachusetts petition is currently under review by the attorney general’s office. If the language is approved, its supporters will have 60 days to collect 68,911 signatures — three percent of the number of votes cast in the last gubernatorial election.

Then, the measure will be vetted by state lawmakers who can back the proposal, offer alternative legislation or permit the petition to be decided at the ballot box. In the last case, backers would need to collect more than 10,000 additional signatures.

The initiative would permit terminally-ill Massachusetts residents — defined as those given six months or less to live — to obtain lethal drugs. Patients would need to be “capable of making medical decisions” in consultation with their doctor. They would be required to submit their request in writing twice — 15 days apart. The requests would need to be signed Turn to page 15

all is great from one to eight — First-grade students, above, and eighth-graders, below, in the Faith Formation program at St. Patrick’s Parish in Wareham eagerly participated in the new summer Religious Education program there.

Wareham parish hopes to revive awareness, appreciation for Catholic faith and doctrines

By Dave Jolivet, Editor

WAREHAM — It’s a trend that troubles most parish priests and Religious Education ministers ­— parents who simply drop their children off at Faith Formation classes and eschew their own Sunday Mass obligation. The problem isn’t new, but it is ever-increasing.

At St. Patrick’s Parish in Wareham, pastor Father John M. Sullivan, and director of Faith Formation, Paula Wilk, feel they have come up with a family-oriented

solution to this concern. Beginning this summer, the parish has instituted a “blended” Faith Formation program called “Hearts To Christ,” which incorporates a one-week summer catechetical program for students in grades one through nine, and a bi-monthly meeting involving students and parents from September through May. “After Vatican II, when the Baltimore Catechism was tossed aside, I saw that Catholics were

not learning Catholic doctrine as much any more,” Wilk told The Anchor. “I feel like a whole generation has gone uncatechized.”

“The program is an intergenerational one,” Wilk said. “Instead of weekly classes for the students, we condensed the material into a one-week summer session where grades one through nine are taught Catholic doctrine with regards to the Mass, the Sacraments, and Church teachings.

Turn to page 16

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Silence is needed to hear God speak, pope says

CASTEL GANDOLFO, Italy (CNS) — Getting off the grid and leaving behind the city is a great way to bring some much-needed silence to one’s life, Pope Benedict XVI said.

“Silence is the condition of one’s surroundings that best fosters contemplation, listening to God and meditation,” he said recently as he held his weekly general audience in the courtyard of the papal summer villa at Castel Gandolfo.

“Just the fact of being able to enjoy silence, to let oneself, as it were, be ‘filled’ by silence, predisposes us to prayer,” the pope said.

Many people spend a few days at a monastic community or spiritual center, which, as “places of the spirit, are a backbone of the world,” he said.

News From the Vatican

Monastic communities have been built in beautiful places that are close to nature, he said.

He said such places bring together two important elements: the beauty of creation and the Creator, and silence that comes from “being far from the city and major channels of communication.”

“God speaks in silence; however, it’s necessary to know how to listen to Him. For this reason monasteries are oases in which God speaks to humanity,” he said.

The pope recalled the August 11 feast day of St. Clare, founder of the Poor Clares, and the August 9 feast day of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) as saints who show people how to draw closer to God through quiet prayer and contemplation; he asked that Mary help people learn to love silence and learn to pray.

After his catechesis, the pope greeted some 2,000 pilgrims in eight different languages.

The pope’s words were met with roaring enthusiasm as young people cheered and waved their countries’ flags and homemade banners.

August 19, 2011

STRETCH LIMO — Sylvia and Stefan Luyerink, who married recently, travel on Rome’s metro to take a train to attend Pope Benedict XVI’s general audience at Castel Gandolfo, Italy, recently. (CNS photo/Paul Haring)

Apostolic visitation of U.S. women’s religious communities nearly complete

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — In the final stage of the apostolic visitation of U.S. women’s religious communities, the Vatican congregation overseeing the study not only is facing mountains of paper, but must try to rebuild a relationship of trust with the women, said the congregation’s secretary.

U.S.-born Archbishop Joseph W. Tobin, secretary of the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, said, “I believe a visitation has to have a dialogical aspect, but the way this was structured at the beginning didn’t really favor that.”

In a recent interview with Catholic News Service, Archbishop Tobin said the congregation hoped its review of the visitation reports and its responses to the participating religious communities would be marked by dialogue and would be a step toward healing.

“I’m an optimist, but also trying to be realistic: The trust that should characterize the daughters and sons of God and disciples of Jesus isn’t recovered overnight. I think women religious have a right to say, ‘Well, let’s see,’” he said.

The former prefect of the congregation, Cardinal Franc Rode, initiated the visitation in January 2009, saying its aim would be to study the community, prayer and apostolic life of the orders to learn why the number of religious women in the United States had declined so sharply since the 1960s.

Almost a year into the study, Cardinal Rode told Vatican Radio that the investigation was a response to concerns, including by “an important representative of the U.S. Church” regarding “some irregularities or omissions in American religious life. Most of all, you could say, it involves a certain secular mentality that has spread in these religious families and, perhaps, also a certain ‘feminist’ spirit.”

Archbishop Tobin said Mother

Mary Clare Millea, superior general of the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the apostolic visitor appointed by the Vatican, has submitted her “overall draft report,” but the congregation is expecting another 400 reports from the Sisters who visited each community and from many of the communities themselves.

The congregation, which has a staff of 40, including only three native English speakers, will need help reading, assessing and responding to the reports, he said.

One possibility, Archbishop Tobin said, is to ask religious congregations based in Rome to allow U.S. members of their general councils to serve as consultants to the congregation and help go through all the reports.

The fact that Cardinal Rode had decided the visitors’ reports would not be shared with the individual communities was only “part of the real harm done at the beginning,” Archbishop Tobin said. The situation was exacerbated by “rumors and, I would say, some rather unscrupulous canonical advisers exploited that” by sowing fear that the Vatican would replace the leadership of some communities or dissolve them altogether.

“It’s like Fox News, they keep

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people coming back because they keep them afraid,” Archbishop Tobin said.

“But certainly, on our side of the river or our side of the pond, we had created an atmosphere where that was possible,” and where the idea that some communities would be closed down “didn’t seem to be so outlandish.”

“It’s like preaching; it’s not what you say, it’s what they hear ... and what a lot of these women heard was someone telling them their life was not loyal and faith-filled,” he said.

In the end, though, many congregations found the process was not as bad as they feared, he said, and “an important outcome that is already happening is that there is a growing number of women religious in the States who say, ‘We need reconciliation, but it has to happen among ourselves. It can’t be imposed by the Vatican.’”

Archbishop Tobin said reconciliation is needed within and among communities, including between those represented by the Leadership Conference of Women Religious and the Council of Major Superiors of Women Religious, which stereotypically are seen, respectively, as very progressive and very conservative.

OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF FALL RIVER Vol. 55, No. 31

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The International Church Witnesses describe Sudan’s ethnic cleansing in emergency hearing

August 19, 2011

Washington D.C. (CNA) — Witnesses told a House of Representatives subcommittee recently that the Sudanese border state of South Kordofan is descending into racial and religious violence, as the world looks on.

“The Nuba people fear that we will be forgotten, that the world will stand idly by while mass killings continue without redress,” said Anglican bishop Reverend Andudu Adam Elnail, of Sudan’s Episcopal Diocese of Kadulgi, in his testimony before the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, and Human Rights.

“Our hope,” Rev. Elnail said, “is that the United States will lead the international community in taking prompt, effective action to protect tens of thousands of displaced people, including an untold number of civilians being killed house-tohouse and bombed by their own government.”

South Kordofan lies just north of the partially undefined border between Sudan and the newly-established Republic of South Sudan, which became independent on July 9. In recent months, a 2005 plan for South Kordofan’s self-determination has given way to violence

that some observers say is meant to “Arabize” the region, by terrorizing its Black African population.

Brad Phillips, Sudan country director for the Christian organization Voice of the Martyrs, explained the historical roots of the current violence in his testimony before the subcommittee. He recalled that South Kordofan’s Nuba Mountains region already lost around 500,000 people — “roughly half its population” — between 1990 and 2005, during Sudan’s second civil war.

During that war, many residents of the Nuba Mountains supported the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement, an insurgency that later evolved into South Sudan’s autonomous government. But with the Republic of South Sudan now fully independent, Khartoum’s opponents in the Nuba Mountains find themselves at the mercy of a government that has not forgotten their disloyalty.

Representative Chris Smith (R-N.J.), who convened the hearing, presented the subcommittee with a clear picture of the disparity between insurgents in the Nuba Mountains, and their opponents in the Khartoum government.

“Some are trying to down play

the overwhelming responsibility of the Sudanese government for the devastation taking place in Southern Kordofan by referring to the refusal of the SPLM-North to lay down their arms to negotiate with Khartoum,” Smith said. “But there is no moral equivalence between the SPLM-North’s actions and those of the government.”

“SPLM-North members are not bombing people indiscriminately, driving Arabs off their lands and out of their homes nor going doorto-door to identify their perceived enemies and execute them,” he pointed out. “The Government of Sudan’s military forces are.”

Thus, while some members of the liberation movement have achieved their independence, others continue to suffer under the government they fought against.

“While we celebrate with South Sudan on its independence from the murderous regime in Khartoum, we must not forget that many marginalized groups in the north were not given the same guarantees as the south,” Phillips noted.

“Under the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, the Nuba people were guaranteed a free election, followed by a popular consultation,

LONDON (CNS) — Catholic nuns who live near London neighborhoods hit by riots are working with local authorities to help — and even counsel — homeless victims.

Members of the Sisters of Marie Auxiliatrice, a French-based community, made their decision after attending an ecumenical prayer vigil amid smoldering ruins and husks of burned-out vehicles in the British capital’s Tottenham district.

Dublin-born Sister Sylvia McCarthy told Catholic News Service recently, “The shops were burned out completely, and many people lived over those shops, and they had very little time to get out of their apartments.

“The people were in an awful state,” she said. “They are short of everything.”

Sister Sylvia said she felt very sorry for the victims of the violence, which she described as “aimless.”

“I have been here over 20 years and I have seen the improvement in Tottenham since I first arrived,” she said. “They built up lovely shops, and those shops are now just shells.

They are burned to the ground.”

Many residents took with them only the clothes they wore — in some cases pajamas — then watched as their homes burned, shocked by the reality of becoming suddenly homeless and losing nearly all their possessions.

Sister Margarita Foley, a native of Ireland’s County Cork, offered to counsel anyone suffering from

trauma. The trained counselor said her first instinct was to listen to people’s stories in an attempt to discern the true cause of the problem.

But although she said she feels compassion for many of those involved, she said: “We have become a culture which is looking out for everyone else to sort out our problems. We never ask ourselves ‘What can I do?’

“There is a new generation now and they never seem to have enough,” she said. “I look at the rest of the world, at areas where they have very little, and I say to myself ‘What is it with us that we never have enough no matter what is provided?’

The nuns also offered their help to the social services department of Haringey Council, the local authority, and collected clothing for some 45 families.

The riots erupted in the Tottenham area, the scene of similar riots in 1985, following the August 4 shooting there by police of an armed man, Mark Duggan.

Looting and arson spread to other parts of the capital and to such cities as Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool and Bristol over the three consecutive nights.

The violence has left at least five people dead, caused tens of millions of pounds of damage and has resulted in more than 800 arrests, including a boy of 11.

The riots were condemned as “shocking” by Archbishop Vincent Nichols of Westminster.

He said the riots represented a “callous disregard for the common good of our society and show how easily basic principles of respect and honesty are cast aside.”

Nuns help London residents displaced by rioting

whereby elected leaders would interview their constituents and determine what the people wanted with regard to their political future.”

“As of today, the popular consultation has not taken place.

Moreover, Sudan’s President Omar Al-Bashir publicly stated in April this year that if the (governing) National Congress Party cannot get its way with the ballot box, it will use ‘the ammo box.’”

Al-Bashir’s government has not hesitated to reach for its ammunition against South Kordofan. Phillips recalled that the National Congress Party’s troops “attacked and sacked the capital of Kadulgi” on June 6, then “launched a campaign of terror from the skies” against residents.

Kadulgi’s Anglican bishop testified to the devastation the Khartoum government was inflicting.

“I hear almost every day new reports from the Nuba Mountains of the Sudan Armed Forces indiscriminately bombing civilians, including children and women and old people, in places not known to be near military installations. I see photos of the people maimed and killed in these bombing raids.”

“To me, these people are not numbers and statistics. They are my neighbors, my friends, local business leaders, and members of my congregation.”

Phillips, who was in the Nuba Mountains in early July, recalled interviewing residents who had fled Kadulgi, “all of whom shared the

3

same basic story” of Sudan Armed Forces troops conducting house-tohouse searches. They were looking, he said, for anyone who identified as a Nuba citizen, a Christian, or a member of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement.

“Anyone fitting this description was either killed on the spot or arrested and never seen again,” Phillips testified.

“Fortunately, a few thousand residents obtained shelter at the UNMIS compound. But the compound soon filled, and I heard many stories and accounts of people being killed at the gates of the UNMIS compound while U.N. soldiers stood by.”

Rev. Elnail likewise stated that there was “a need for effective peacekeeping forces with a real mandate to actually keep the peace, and not just stand by while mass murder occurs house-to-house, around the clock.”

In light of such violence, Rev. Elnail said, the U.S. must continue to employ diplomatic pressure and other forms of leverage against the Khartoum government.

“The United States cannot begin to consider normalizing ties with Sudan, and should not de-list Sudan as a sponsor of terrorism or approve this outlaw nation’s access to international financing and debt relief,” he told the subcommittee. “Those individuals and groups most responsible for the mass atrocities should be designated and sanctioned.”

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The Church in the U.S.

August 19, 2011

Archbishop objects to governor’s support for same-sex marriage

BALTIMORE (CNS) — Two days before Governor Martin J. O’Malley announced his July 22 decision to sponsor legislation legalizing same-sex marriage in Maryland, Archbishop Edwin F. O’Brien of Baltimore sent him a private letter urging O’Malley, a Catholic, to refrain from promoting the redefinition of marriage.

“I am well aware that the recent events in New York have intensified pressure on you to lend your active support to legislation to redefine marriage,” Archbishop O’Brien wrote, referring to New York Governor Andrew Cuomo’s signing of gay marriage legislation in the Empire State.

“As advocates for the truths we are compelled to uphold,” Archbishop O’Brien said, “we speak with equal intensity and urgency in opposition to your promoting a goal that so deeply conflicts with your faith, not to mention the best interests of our society.”

The archbishop said it was “especially hard to fathom your taking such a step, given the fact that our requests last year for you to sponsor legislation to repeal the death penalty and support students in Catholic and other nonpublic schools went unheeded.”

Archbishop O’Brien was referring to a long-sought business tax credit that would benefit students and teachers in Catholic and nonpublic schools. O’Malley supports the credit, but did not take a leadership role in trying to pass it. The measure failed.

In a response to Archbishop O’Brien, the governor cited a long list of items on which the two agree — including repealing the death penalty, reducing the incidence of infant mortality, “promoting the dignity of work and the justice of fair wages,” protecting the environment, feeding the hungry and heal-

ing the sick.

“I do not presume, nor would I ever presume as governor, to question or infringe upon your freedom to define, to preach about, and to administer the Sacraments of the Roman Catholic Church,” O’Malley said. “But on the public issue of granting equal civil marital rights to same-sex couples, you and I disagree.”

O’Malley said he was “sworn to uphold the law without partiality or prejudice.”

“When shortcomings in our laws bring about a result that is unjust,” he asserted, “I have a public obligation to try to change that injustice.”

O’Malley said it was unjust to “discriminate” in marital laws and he added that it is also “unjust” to treat the children of families headed by same-sex couples with “lesser protections” under the law than the children of families headed by heterosexual couples.

Archbishop O’Brien noted that members of the Maryland General Assembly decided against legalizing same-sex marriage during the last legislative session even though they were subjected to “intense pressure, both from the public and from legislative leadership — despite leaders’ claims that this was a ‘vote of conscience.’”

“Admirably, many legislators, prompted by their deeply held moral convictions and those of the constituents they were elected to represent, courageously resisted the all-too-familiar pull of partisan allegiances and political ambition in making their decision to uphold marriage,” Archbishop O’Brien said. “Such courage is rare in politics and can best be rewarded if it serves as an example for others to emulate.”

The archbishop noted that “Maryland is not New York.”

high and dry — A sign advises drivers of drought conditions near Lake Ray Hubbard in Rowlett, Texas, recently. Texas is officially in the midst of its second-worst drought on record, surpassing one that ended in 1918. (CNS photo/Mike Stone, Reuters)

A lot of praying for rain, but few drops in drought-stricken Southwest

WASHINGTON (CNS) — There’s a lot of praying for rain going on in the drought-gripped Southwest, but those prayers have yet to be answered.

Most of Texas, and significant portions of New Mexico and Oklahoma, are in a “D4” drought zone as assessed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. D4 is equal to “exceptional” drought — the most intense level on USDA’s scale.

“The last time there was measurable rain — it might not have been rain, it might have been moisture — it was in February, with snow,” said Lucas Flores, editor of the South Plains Catholic, newspaper of the Diocese of Lubbock, Texas.

“The most noticeable thing is not seeing the green of the cotton right now,” Flores added in a phone interview with Catholic News Service. “The farmers are watering pretty hard. My dad’s a farmer. ...

I’ll ask him, ‘Did you get anything today?’ and he’ll say, ‘No we’re still praying.’”

“The last day we had rain here, it was the day of the St. Ann’s Family Fair,” said Jimmy Patterson, communications director for the Dio-

cese of San Angelo, Texas. “I think it was September 22 last year.”

“The wildfires we’re having are related” to the drought, Patterson said. “In the town of Olfen which is near San Angelo, we had a wildfire.

It was started when the sun cracked a Coke bottle and the heat from the refracted light set the grass on fire.”

Drought conditions developed rapidly. Just a year ago, nearly 75 percent of a six-state area covering Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi and Tennessee reported no drought. Also, as recently of January 1, none of this area recorded a D4 drought level.

Now, about 47 percent of the region is classified D4.

Southern Georgia and parts of Florida also have been suffering from a lack of rain, but the drought now gripping the Southwest is the most severe. It is both a hydrological drought, affecting water and water tables, and an agricultural drought, affecting crops, grasslands and pastures.

Patterson was at a rural life Mass in his diocese in July and heard stories from Father Hubert Wade, pastor of St. Mary Star of the Sea

Parish in Ballinger, Texas, of how severe the drought is.

“He informed me at that time the city of Robert Lee would be out of water this month, right about now,” Patterson told CNS. “I think they have reached some contract to have some water shipped in from other municipalities.”

Patterson said Father Wade also told him about livestock that were in a confined pen on a ranch near Robert Lee when a wildfire came through. “And they couldn’t get out and all of the cattle were burned, but not to death. And the rancher was forced to shoot 150 head of cattle as a way of mercy killing. Another example was deer that went into a brushy area and couldn’t get out and they burned to death.”

Christian Gonzalez, communications director for the Diocese of Austin, Texas, said “It’s as bleak as I’ve seen and I’ve been here since 1988. The last drought was a severe drought. It began in the 50s and it lasted nearly a decade,” but even then, he added, most areas got a couple of inches of rain each year.

“But we’ve had 0.16 inches of rain in Midland since September.”

Charlotte, N.C. (CNA) — There is a common misperception that Catholics don’t read the Bible.

Tell that to the more than 200 people from around the U.S. who attended the Catholic Scripture Study International Bible Conference, and you’ll get a chuckle out of them. That’s because most of them spend countless hours leading or participating in CSSI Bible studies in their home parishes year after year.

Several converts to the Catholic faith were among the participants and received an enthusiastic round of applause during the conference.

Jane Brock, a former Anglican priest from Tennessee who now lives in North Carolina and converted to Catholicism in 2008, was among those who were recognized.

She credits her conversion to the patience of Msgr. John McSwee-

ney, pastor of St. Matthew Church in south Charlotte, and to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and reading the “Catechism of the Catholic Church” “on a dare.”

“It has been a wonderful journey. It’s wonderful to be home,” Brock said.

Three keynote speakers anchored the event, all experts in their respective fields of Sacred Scripture, apologetics and evangelization.

Jesuit Father Mitch Pacwa, the world-renowned biblical scholar who speaks 12 languages and appears regularly on the Eternal Word Global Catholic Network (EWTN) hosting both television and radio programs gave talks on “Sin in the Bible” and “The Penitential Psalms.” During both talks, Father Pacwa educated participants on the intricacies of lan-

guage in the Bible and God’s will for our lives.

“God created us for the truth,” said Father Pacwa. “We want truth from others and for ourselves. We desire truth.”

Patrick Madrid, publisher of Envoy Magazine and director of Envoy Institute at Belmont Abbey College since 2007, has been working in the field of biblical apologetics for more than 24 years and spoke on how to provide answers to common questions posed to Catholics using Sacred Scripture.

“God gives us a great, powerful, necessary gift in Scripture,” Madrid said. “The Church and the magisterium are whom God entrusted with His teachings. As Catholics we have something that is unique and different: Sacred Scripture, tradition and the magisterium.”

Catholics find joy in God’s word at Bible study conference

August 19, 2011

The Church in the U.S.

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Bishops offer joint appeal for help in stemming East African famine

casualties of war — U.S. President Barack Obama salutes during a ceremony at Dover Air Force Base in Dover, Del., for the “dignified transfer” of the bodies of 30 U.S. service members.

Along with seven Afghan soldiers and an interpreter, they were killed in Afghanistan early August 6 when their helicopter was brought down by insurgents. Obama honored the fallen U.S. military personnel in a private ceremony. (CNS photo/Pete Souza, courtesy White House via Reuters)

New York City’s mandatory sex ed program draws fire

New York City (CNA) — The City of New York’s new requirement that one semester of sex education be taught in all public middle and high schools continues a “failed experiment” and substitutes parents’ beliefs and values with those of the schools, Catholic leaders said.

“The decision of the City of New York to mandate sex education classes, including teaching grade school children about sex and condom use, is troubling,” Joseph Zwilling, the Archdiocese of New York’s communications director, said recently.

He said 40 years’ experience has shown it is a “misguided effort” and a “failure” to try to make sexual activity devoid of consequences.

“Rates of teen sexual activity and pregnancies continue to soar, despite condoms being freely given away, including in our public schools,” Zwilling continued.

Bill Donohue of the Catholic League said that under Mayor Michael Bloomberg “literally tens of millions of condoms have been promiscuously distributed all over the city to anyone who wants them.

“And yet the rate of sexually transmitted diseases continues to skyrocket.”

Previously, public school principals have chosen whether to teach about sex and what to teach about it. On Tuesday the city announced the new mandate. The city recommends its program to schools that do not have one in place.

The recommended curriculum includes package lesson plans titled “HealthSmart” and “Reducing the Risk,” the New York Times reports. They describe abstinence as the best method to avoid pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease, but they also teach condom use and discuss the appropriate age for sexual activity.

Zwilling said the schools should teach abstinence.

“Abstinence before marriage is

the only sure way to avoid pregnancy and disease, and recent scholarship has shown that abstinence education leads to healthier, better adjusted teens and young adults,” he said. “The city would be better advised to put its efforts into promoting what truly works rather than continuing to promote a failed experiment.”

Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio of Brooklyn said the mandate is “one more example of political agendas being forced on children and their families.”

He said it is “offensive to parents” to suggest that the mandate is needed.

“Yet again, our political leaders follow the trend of transferring authority to teachers from parents, and parents continue to lose the right to parent their own children.

We will work with everyone, but especially with the parents of our public school children enrolled in our religious education programs, to assist them in asserting their parental rights.”

Zwilling said that parents have “the right and the responsibility to be the first and primary educators of their children.”

“This mandate by the city usurps that role, and allows the public school system to substitute its beliefs and values for those of the parents,” he added.

In the 1990s city school boards had the authority to bar the mention of contraception, abortion, and homosexuality. However, the boards are now under mayoral control.

Donohue said sex education should discourage sex the way other programs discourage smoking.

“We don’t tell kids not to smoke and then instruct them on the proper way to inhale,” he added.

Students should learn about how abortion affects women and unborn children, about the greater likelihood of acquiring a sexually transmitted disease, and about the link between unwed motherhood and poverty, Donohue advised.

In January, Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan of New York decried the city’s “chilling” abortion rate.

About 41 percent of all unborn babies in the city are killed in the womb.

Supporters of the sex education program include Vanessa Mercado, the after-school program manager at the Inwood Academy for Leadership.

“Children are exposed to sex in so many forms now that it’s better they get the right information from someone,” she told the New York Times.

However, Lucy Accardo, a mother of four on the Community Education Council for District 24, said sex education is not the proper activity of the schools.

“I don’t agree with it, because I think parents should teach their children at their own discretion,” she said.

BALTIMORE (CNS) — The ongoing drought and famine afflicting Somalia and other East African nations is “a humanitarian crisis that cries out for help to Christians throughout the world,” said the president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and the chairman of the board of Catholic Relief Services in a joint statement.

“CRS can use all the help we can offer in this current tragic situation,” wrote Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan of New York, USCCB president, and Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas of Tucson, Ariz., CRS board chairman.

“Through CRS our generosity could literally feed thousands and provide them clean water, shelter and other life-saving goods.”

CRS, the U.S. bishops’ overseas aid and development agency, estimates that more than 12 million people are in urgent need of aid in Kenya, Somalia and Ethiopia. The drought has resulted in failed crops, deaths of livestock and critical shortages of food and water.

“There are parents whose little children have died, and children who have been orphaned.

They are suffering from hunger, thirst, disease and drought,” the prelates said in a statement issued from Baltimore, home to CRS headquarters. “We see millions of people being forced from their homes, leaving behind what meager possessions they had, and walking for days over rough terrain” to find sustenance.

In Ethiopia, CRS officials said

the agency is expanding its food distribution program to 1.1 million people and is working with local partners to provide livelihood support, water and sanitation. In Somalia, CRS is supporting local partners to assist highly vulnerable, displaced families with basic necessities, such as food packages, support to clinics, therapeutic feeding and shelter.

In Kenya, CRS is working both to assist newly arrived refugees with hygiene, sanitation promotion and protection, and also to provide water, sanitation and supplemental feeding to drought-affected Kenyan communities.

Misiones Salesianas, the Spanish Salesians’ mission office in Madrid, said August 10 it would send 200,000 euros (about $284,000) to provide relief in famine-stricken areas. It said both refugee camps and Salesian centers “are overcrowded, with thousands arriving every day to receive food and water.”

The U.S. government announced August 8 it will give an additional $105 million in humanitarian assistance to nations in the Horn of Africa region, bringing its total commitment for this fiscal year to $564.5 million to help those in need.

The money is being used for health, nutrition, agriculture and food security, economic recovery, humanitarian coordination, community-based education and anti-malnutrition measures, and water, sanitation and hygiene initiatives in Ethiopia, Somalia and Kenya.

6

The Anchor Planted, built up and firm in faith in Jesus Christ

This weekend in Madrid, Pope Benedict will be joined by a million young Catholics and their chaperones to celebrate the 26th World Youth Day. This encounter of the successor of St. Peter and the Catholic youth of the world was begun by Blessed John Paul II in 1985 precisely in order to give the world’s Catholic youth an opportunity to come together to grow in faith in Jesus Christ and find from Him the answers to the most important questions that perennially pester young, restless hearts.

World Youth Days are “a fascinating witness that young people give of themselves,” Blessed John Paul II reflected in the 1993 autobiographical interview “Crossing the Threshold of Hope.”

Two of the largest crowds in the history of civilization — 5.6 million in Manila in 1995 and 2.8 million in Rome in 2000 — were for World Youth Days and since the beginning, they have been “powerful means of evangelization” not only for the young, not only for their societies, but also for the pope, bishops, priests and the entire Church.

“What I am going to say to you,” Blessed John Paul II would often tell young people, “is not as important as what you are going to say to me. You will not necessarily say it to me in words; you will say it to me by your presence, by your song, perhaps by your dancing, by your skits and finally by your enthusiasm.” John Paul II noted that there is deep theological meaning to the enthusiasm of the young. In it, we find a reflection of “the original joy God had in creating man. The young experience this same joy within themselves. This joy is the same everywhere, but it is also very new and original. The young know how to express this joy in their own special way.” This youthful, enthusiastic joy for life and for the faith helps the Church remain young, urging even aging popes, John Paul II noted autobiographically, to “be young” and not “to forget his experience, his discovery of youth and its great importance for the life of every man.”

Many in Church circles thought the success of World Youth Days had less to do with what John Paul II described about the youthful search for God and answers and more to do with John Paul II’s magnetic personality, which — like famous rock stars or celebrities— could draw vast crowds for a Catholic jamboree. These critics anticipated that after John Paul II’s death, and especially after the election of a much more reserved and cerebral successor, World Youth Days would begin to lose their appeal. The opposite, however, has happened. World Youth Days have not only retained their vigor, but they’re growing in intensity, as more are discovering that the particular appeal of the pope is not personal but vicarious; that he is a living reminder to the young that Christ is alive in the Church He founded. Through him Christ continues to care for and speak to the young of today and communicate that Christ’s words and promises did not have an expiration date.

After the success of the 2008 World Youth Day in Sydney, Pope Benedict reflected on what these days teach the whole Church. “Popular analyses tend to view these days as a variant of contemporary youth culture, a sort of rock festival in an ecclesial key, with the pope as its main attraction. Such analyses presume that, with or without faith, these festivals would be basically the same; and thus the whole question of God can be set aside. Even some Catholics would seem to agree, seeing the whole event as a huge spectacle, magnificent perhaps, but of no real significance for the question of faith and the presence of the Gospel in our time. They might be ecstatic celebrations, but in the end they would really change nothing, nor have any deeper effect on life. This, however, leaves completely unexplained the real nature of these Youth Days and the specific character of their joy, and their power to build communion.”

This power, he said, comes from the fact that the World Youth Day experience involves far more than a trip to a big city for a weekend celebration with young people from around the world. It’s an interior pilgrimage that begins even years prior to the actual event and continues long after it. “It has to be realized,” Pope Benedict clarified, “that World Youth Days do not consist only of the one week when they are brought to the attention of the world. They are preceded by a long process of preparation both practical and spiritual. The World Youth Day Cross, accompanied by the icon of the Mother of the Lord, goes on pilgrimage to many countries. …The encounter with the World Youth Day Cross, which is touched and carried, becomes an interior encounter with the One who died for us on the Cross. The encounter with the Cross awakens within the young people the remembrance of the God who chose to become man and to suffer with us. We also see the woman He gave to us as our Mother. The solemn World Youth Days are nothing if not the culmination of a long process in which the young people turn to one another and then, together, turn to Christ. … Thus, the pope himself is not the star around which everything revolves. He is completely and solely a vicar. He points beyond himself to the Other who is in our midst.”

The “center of the whole event” is, he said, precisely the encounter with Jesus Christ in the Saturday night Vigil of Eucharistic Adoration, which continues into the solemn celebration of Mass on Sunday. “There takes place something that we ourselves cannot bring about, yet something for which we are always awaiting. Christ is present. He comes into our midst. The heavens are rent and the earth filled with light. This is what makes life joyful and free, uniting people with one another in a joy that cannot be compared to the ecstasy of a rock festival.”

Likewise, “just as a long journey precedes the celebration of World Youth Day, a continuing journey follows it. Friendships are formed that encourage a different way of life and that give it deep support. The purpose of these great days is, not least, to inspire such friendships and so to create places of living faith in the world, places that are, at the same time, settings of hope and practical charity.”

In Madrid this weekend, Pope Benedict is going to be trying to help not only those in attendance, but the Church throughout the globe watching on television or reading his homilies to create “places of living faith in the world,” to reflect on how the Holy Spirit seeks to help us all become “planted and built up in Jesus Christ, firm in the faith” (Col 2:7).

Pope Benedict chose these words of St. Paul as the theme for this year’s World Youth Day because he wanted to help the young, assailed by a secularist and relativistic culture, to develop strong and indestructible roots in Christ so that they may withstand the spiritually desiccating forces within the culture; to establish the foundation of their life anew on the rock of Christ’s words so that it can withstand the storms (Lk 6:47-48); and to become stronger through Christ’s Cross not only to live their faith with enthusiasm but share the treasure with others. In his letter to the youth of the world inviting them to World Youth Day, the pope acknowledges that the decision to believe in Jesus Christ and to follow Him “is not an easy one” but one that is often “hindered by our personal failures and by the many voices that point us towards easier paths.”

He urges them, however, never to be discouraged, but to find their strength in Christ, in the martyrs, in the Blessed Virgin Mary, who all provide for us an inspiring example of what it means to be rooted and established on Christ the rock, strong in faith.

Let us pray for the 60 young people and chaperones from our diocese who are present in Madrid, the millions who are with them, and the millions more who will be following World Youth Day virtually through the media, that they all may be strengthened in faith in the way Pope Benedict describes and become a leaven to strengthen us all and make us younger, more enthusiastic and joyful in our living of the faith.

O

August 19, 2011

The love of the Word of God

great biblical scholar of the early Church. n Sept. 30, 2010 (the feast of St. He is the one who once said, “Ignorance Jerome) our Holy Father, Pope of Scripture is ignorance of Christ.”

Benedict XVI released the post-synodal Our Holy Father explains over and apostolic exhortation, “Verbum Doover again that the Bible is not just mini — The Word of God in the life and another book, that it isn’t just a historical mission of the Church.” This document account of religious things but that it is communicates to all who read it our pope’s tremendous love for the Bible and the living Word of God that continues to speak to us even today. But one of the his great desire to make its eternal truths things that concerns the pope the most more accessible to each believer. This with respect to the Bible is its proper and week, I would like to reflect on Pope authentic interpretation.

Benedict’s passion for Sacred Scripture, Throughout Verbum Domini, the pope how that impacts what he does as pope, clearly and systematically provides us and how that impacts us.

In the introduction of Verbum Domini with the proper frame of mind that we the pope explains his intention in writing need to approach the Word of God. The this pivotal document in biblical scholar- pope explains at length the “intrinsic link ship. “I would like the work of the Synod between the Word and faith which makes clear that authentic interpretation of the to have a real effect on the life of the Church: on our personal relationship with biblical texts can only be done within the the sacred Scriptures, on their interpreta- faith of the Church.” This is important tion in the Liturgy and catechesis, and in because how we read and interpret the Bible directly affects what we believe scientific research, so that the Bible may about Christ, the Church, the Sacranot be simply a word from the past, but ments and the a living and Liturgy. timely word.”

Once again To acPutting Into making refercomplish ence to St. this task, the the Deep Jerome, the pope makes pope remindconstant refered us that we ence to the

By Father can never Prologue of Jay Mello read Scripture John’s Gospel simply on our (Jn 1:1-18), own, because “we come up against too which makes known to us the basis of many closed doors and we too easily our life: the Word, who from the beginslip into error.” Mindful of the great ning is with God, who became flesh and number of heretical interpretations of who made His dwelling among us (Jn the Bible throughout the history of the 1:14). For those who remember the time prior the liturgical changes of the Second Church, the pope reminds us to read Vatican Council, this Gospel passage was and interpret the Scripture with the mind of the Church by asking how the read at end of every Mass as a constant reminder that Jesus Christ is the Word of Church, the Fathers of the Church and God Who became flesh and dwelt among the great saints have understood what God is trying to communicate to His us. people.

It isn’t only in Verbum Domini that Pope Benedict understands that we Pope Benedict stresses the crucial must read the Scriptures as dialogue of importance of the Bible in the life of the faith with the God who has revealed Church and of every one of us. He actuHimself in Jesus Christ, who is the eterally put it into concrete terms with his nal Word of the Father. God continues to book, “Jesus of Nazareth” (which now has a second volume, and a third coming communicate with us, He continues to inspire us, to teach us, and to call us to a soon). In this series on the public life of deeper understanding of who He is and our Lord, the pope opens up the Scriptures to the reader in a spiritual and intel- of His will for our lives.

In his book, “Covenant and Comlectual manner. This work is a significant contribution to the biblical understanding munion: the Biblical Theology of Pope Benedict,” Dr. Scott Hahn (a biblical of who Jesus Christ is, but is also a deep theologian himself) explains that, “Never expression of the pope’s theological and before in the history of the Cathopastoral focus. lic Church has a world class biblical Explaining how important this work theologian been elevated to the papacy.” was to him, the pope wrote, “Since my Throughout the book, he explains the election to the Episcopal See of Rome, intensely biblical quality to the pope’s I have used every free moment to make pastoral teaching and his desire for an progress on this book. As I do not know authentic interpretation of sacred Scriphow much more time and strength I am ture. still to be given, I have decided to pubHahn explains all of this much betlish the first 10 chapters … because it ter than I do and his book is certainly struck me as the most urgent priority to worth the read. But more important present the figure and message of Jesus than his book are the these writings of in His public ministry, and so to help foster the growth of a living relationship Pope Benedict that I mentioned, Verbum Domini and the two volumes of with Him.” “Jesus of Nazareth.” Most important of Those last few words get to the heart all, however, is the Word of God itself! of what our Holy Father is trying to communicate, namely, the importance of As faithful Catholics, let us follow the Catholics to foster a friendship with Jesus advice of our Holy Father and spend Christ! This friendship with Christ is im- time with the Scriptures and enter into possible without knowing the Scriptures. a dialogue of faith with our Lord and God. As I mentioned earlier, the document Father Mello is a parochial vicar at Verbum Domini was promulgated on September 30, the feast of St. Jerome, the St. Patrick’s Parish in Falmouth.

August 19, 2011

7

The Anchor

Substituting the Lamb of God

Q: It has always been my understanding that the Agnus Dei was a set part of the Mass, consisting in singing twice “Lamb of God, You take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us”; and concluding with “Lamb of God, You take away the sins of the world, grant us peace.”

However, at the Mass which I attend in my parish, it is used as an opportunity for creative expression, with the cantor singing such phrases as “Prince of Peace,” “Lord of Lords,” and other expressions to the refrain from the congregation of “Have mercy on us” until the end of the Communion procession, at which time it will segue (unannounced) into “grant us peace.” While this can be very edifying and pleasing, it does not seem to me to meet the requirements of the liturgical norms. — C.C., Dallas, Texas Q: It is common in my diocese for priests, after the Lamb of God, when the Missal reads “This is the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world ...” to substitute a different (but still true) title or description of Christ — usually related to the Gospel of the day. For example, “This is Jesus, who today calls us to take up our cross and follow Him ...” Is this permitted? — C.S., Hamilton, New Zealand

A: The norms regarding the system similar to the one described by our reader is longsinging on the Agnus Dei are established custom in some found in the General InstrucEuropean cathedrals. tion of the Roman Missal, The then Cardinal Joseph No. 83: “…The supplication Ratzinger considered this Agnus Dei, is, as a rule, sung by the choir or cantor with the practice legitimate in a conference given at Regensburg congregation responding; or it is, at least, recited aloud. This invocation accompanies the fraction and, for this reason, may be repeated as many times as necessary until the

By Father rite has reached its Edward McNamara conclusion, the last time ending with the words ‘dona nobis pacem’ (grant us peace).” on the occasion of his older Therefore, as a rule, the brother’s retirement as music invocations may be repeated director of that city’s catheif the rite of fraction is dral. prolonged. But there is no With regard to the second mention of inserting new invocations or of prolonging the question, the short answer to this, and to other similar quesAgnus Dei as a Communion tions regarding priests altering song. Thus the invocation prescribed texts or composing “Grant us peace” should be new ones, is no. said at the end of the fracBut — and there is a but tion and no extra invocations — in some countries and introduced. religious congregations, small That said, the melody used in the Agnus Dei may be taken additions have been made to these prayers with proper auup again after the “Lord, I thorization from the Holy See. am not worthy” and used as a The general principles Communion song. In this case involved are those announced there is no obstacle to introin the General Instruction of ducing adequate new invocathe Roman Missal, No. 24-26. tions as described above.

No. 24 reminds priests that This can be a way of using while some adaptations of certain classical polyphonic the Liturgy are possible these versions which would be too “consist for the most part in long for the present rite. A

the choice of certain rites or texts, that is, of the chants, readings, prayers, explanations, and gestures that may respond better to the needs, preparation, and culture of the participants and that are entrusted to the priest celebrant.

Nevertheless, the priest must remember that he is the servant of the Sacred Liturgy and that he himself is not permitted, on his own initiative, to add, to remove, or to change anything in the celebration of Mass.” Nos. 25 and 26 refer to other adaptations reserved to the diocesan bishop or to the episcopal conference which often require the definitive ratification of the Holy See. The recent instruction “Redemptionis Sacramentum” has also weighed in on the topic of unauthorized alterations in No. 59: “The reprobated practice by which priests, deacons or the faithful here and there alter or vary at will the texts of the Sacred Liturgy that they are charged to pronounce, must cease. For in doing thus, they render the celebration of the Sacred Liturgy unstable, and not infrequently distort the authentic meaning of the Liturgy.”

What is important to consider in the case presented

is not so much whether the additions involved are theologically correct — they might well be — but the fact that an individual priest takes upon himself the role of changing what the Church has established.

By praying in words of his own choosing, and not those chosen by the Church, he, in a sense, betrays the “we” of the presidential prayers which make him the Church’s representative before God and obscures the faithful’s right to join through his ministry in the prayer of the universal Church.

Such acts are probably often done with the best of intentions and even spring from pastoral motives. But they are objectively acts of theological egotism that transform the common patrimony into an individual’s private domain. As mentioned above, this does not mean that the Liturgy is totally untouchable; however, any changes must be made according to the proper procedures.

Father Edward McNamara is a Legionary of Christ and professor of Liturgy at Regina Apostolorum University in Rome. His column appears weekly at zenit.org. Send questions to liturgy@zenit. org. Put the word “Liturgy” in the subject field. Text should include initials, city and state.

FALL RIVER — Copies of the newly-expanded 20112012 Catholic Directory for the Diocese of Fall River will begin shipping this week.

This annual information resource, published by The Anchor, is the go-to reference guide for all parishes, offices and apostolates within the Fall River Diocese and has continued to offer more information with each subsequent edition over the past few years.

“We’re always looking for ways to expand and improve upon last year’s edition,” said Kenneth J. Souza, reporter for The Anchor and coordinator of the directory for the past four years. “The fact that this year’s directory is significantly larger than previous editions speaks to all the new information it contains.”

This year’s hefty 226-page volume offers several new features over last year’s 160page edition, beginning with a handy 12-month desk calendar that includes pertinent infor-

mation such as saints’ feast days, significant events in the history of the Fall River Diocese, holy days of obligation, and a daily necrology of deceased priests and deacons.

“We hope people will use the desk calendar as a daily reference to not only remember former clergy in their prayers, but also to celebrate the rich history of our diocese,” Souza said.

The “Parishes and Missions” section has also been revised and reformatted to include one parish per page so that more information can be included. Each parish page now also offers a thumbnail map of where the church is located.

Other new additions to the 2011-2012 directory include a special “In Memoriam” page recalling those who died within the last year; a “Partial List of Religious Abbreviations” for various religious orders; and convenient forms to order additional copies of

the directory or provide updates and corrections to future editions.

“It’s the biggest book we’ve ever produced, and we certain-

archives, priests’ residences, councils and apostolates ranging from The Anchor to Catholic Social Services and its many offices, Campus Ministry, summer camps, Catholic Charities Appeal, the Development Office, Chancery, Faith Formation, Insurance, Legal, Communications, Scouting, Shelters, Vocations, and Youth and Adult Ministry.

Continuing the trend begun two years ago, most of these listings can be found using handy pull-out “tabs” for quick reference.

“We’ve added one new tab for the calendar section this year, so we now have an even 10 separate tabbed sections,” Souza said.

The colorful cover of the 2011-2012 directory features a stained-glass image of the Descent of the Holy Spirit, the principal protagonist of the New Evangelization, taken from St. Anthony of Padua Parish in New Bedford.

As always, the continued

support of dedicated advertisers is pivotal to the directory’s annual success.

“Despite the economy, we still saw an increase in the number of advertisers in this year’s directory,” said Wayne R. Powers, advertising director for The Anchor and the directory. “I think people know it’s still one of the best vehicles and values to make their products and services known throughout the diocese.”

With this year’s challenging directory project now behind him, Souza is already looking ahead to next year’s edition.

“Just when you think you’ve included everything, something else will pop up,” he said.

To order a copy of the 20112012 Catholic Directory, send a check for $18 made payable to “Anchor Publishing,” to Anchor Publishing Co., P.O. Box 7, Fall River, Mass. 02722.

You can also place an order online at www.anchornews. org or call 508-675-7151.

Liturgical Q&A

Expanded edition of diocesan directory boasts new features

ly think it’s one of the best to date,” Souza said.

As in past years, the directory provides updated telephone and address listings of all diocesan offices, personnel,

8

T

oday’s Gospel presents us with two questions, asked by our Lord Jesus Christ. The first question — “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” — elicits a number of responses from His disciples. Opinion polls are divided. There is no consensus as to Jesus’ identity, yet they perceive that He stands in the line of the prophets, like John the Baptist, Elijah, or Jeremiah.

The second question — “But who do you say that I am?”

— is the first time that our Lord puts His disciples on the spot. Jesus calls for a direct answer to His question, which draws out a confessional response by St. Peter, as he proclaims: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Because of his great response, Jesus, in turn, hands over earthly authority to Peter, choosing him to be the rock on whom He will build His Church. This is the same Peter who, as we

August 19, 2011

The Anchor

‘Who do you say that Jesus is?’

saw two weeks ago, began We also guard the keys to to sink as he walked on the our house, place of employwater toward Jesus and was ment and other important chided for his lack of faith. places. Those who have keys This will be the same Peter to our churches guard them who will deny our Lord three times even when he promised our Homily of the Week Lord that he would Twenty-first Sunday never abandon Him. in Ordinary Time He’s the one whom Jesus calls “Satan” as

By Father we will hear in next Jeffrey Cabral week’s Gospel.

Yes, Peter was not perfect. And yet Peter is entrusted with the with their life! Peter was not keys to the Kingdom of God. predictable. Nevertheless, Similarly, in the first reading Jesus trusted him enough to from the Book of the Prophet give him those keys.

Isaiah, God gave the keys of Trust is powerful. Our authority over the House of Lord trusted Peter, an ordiDavid to His servant Elianary fishermen, with those kim. It’s not easy for us to keys. Even though he had trust someone with keys. many faults, it would be We probably don’t leave our Peter, strengthened by the car keys lying around, as we outpouring of the Holy Spirit don’t want anyone to steal at Pentecost, who would prothem! Parents certainly find claim the Good News of the it difficult to hand over the Resurrection, and have the car keys to their teen-age courage to do what our Lord children for the first time. had called him to do … all

because Peter was first able boldly to answer our Lord’s question.

We can ask the same two questions of ourselves. First, who do people say that Jesus is? We can certainly read many theological books, listen to lengthy homilies, or study the “Catechism” to discover this. But it is the second question — who do you say that I am? — that really gets to the heart of the matter, an important question for all of us to ask ourselves. We discover who Jesus is through prayer, spiritual reading, our participation at Holy Eucharist and the other Sacraments, and most especially in times of adoration before the true presence of our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. At some point in our lives, we see Jesus as our friend and brother; at other points, we see Him as our teacher, Lord, Savior

and Messiah. In many ways, He is all of these — and so much more! He is, indeed, all things to all people. This is the mystery of God in Christ Jesus — that He can be all of these things to all people at the same time. In the infinite scope of God’s love, we can turn to Jesus in whatever way we need to grow in faith, hope and love.

May all of us continue to ask that question of who Jesus is for us. May we always seek out Jesus in times of joy and sorrow, anxiety and peace. And may we pray this weekend for the current successor of Peter, Pope Benedict XVI, as he gathers with the youth at World Youth Day in Madrid, Spain, encouraging them to plant and build up their faith in Jesus Christ.

Father Cabral is currently the Promoter of Justice and a Judge at the Diocesan Tribunal, with residence at Holy Family Parish in East Taunton.

Upcoming Daily Readings: Sat. August 20, Ru 2:1-3,8-11;4:13-17; Ps 128:1-5; Mt 23:1-12. Sun. August 21, Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time, Is 22:19-23; Ps 138:1-3,6,8; Rom 11:33-36; Mt 16:13-20. Mon. August 22, 1 Thes 1:1-5,8b-10; Ps 149:1-6,9; Mt 23:13-22. Tues. August 23, 1 Thes 2:1-8; Ps 139:1-6; Mt 23:23-26. Wed. August 24, Rv 21:9b-14; Ps 145:10-13,17-18; Jn 1:45-51. Thu. August 25, 1 Thes 3:7-13; Ps 90:3-5,12-14,17; Mt 24:42-51. Fri. August 26, 1 Thes 4:1-8; Ps 97:1-2,5-6,1012; Mt 25:1-13.

O

ne of the great bits of repartee in “The King’s Speech” comes as the maverick Australian speech therapist, Lionel Logue, is just getting to know His Royal Highness Prince Albert, the stammering Duke of York: Logue: “Surely a prince’s brain knows what his mouth’s doing?”

Bertie: “You’re obviously not well acquainted with many royal princes.”

No one could have imagined any such dialogue involving Archduke Otto von Habsburg, who died on July 4 — not because the archduke was a fear-

The first — and last — ‘European’?

Hungary in the waning days of some personality, but because he World War I. Yet the son declined was a preeminently intelligent to disappear from the scene and and decent man. played roles both dramatic and The full name he was given useful over the eight decades of at his Baptism in 1912 — Franz Josef Otto Robert Maria Anton Karl Max Heinrich Sixtus Xavier Felix Renatus Ludwig Gaetan Pius Ignatius — speaks volumes about the history of his family, whose rule

By George Weigel over central Europe extended back some seven centuries. Otto might his maturity. have been thought an anachroHe worried Hitler, who saw nism after his father, Emperor him as a potential threat to the Karl, was driven from the throne of the Dual Monarchy of Austria- Anschluss uniting Austria with Germany. So the Nazi Führer twice tried to meet the young Austrian nobleman when Archduke Otto was studying in Berlin in 1931-32. Otto von Habsburg not only rebuffed Hitler on both occasions, thus putting himself firmly on the Gestapo’s list of enemies; in 1938, as the Nazi vice was closing on an independent Austria, the archduke, at obvious risk to his life, volunteered to return to Austria as the head of government, to provide a national rallying point against Nazi paganism.

In June 1940, the Luftwaffe bombed the Belgian castle in which Otto von Habsburg and

The Catholic Difference

his family were living, just hours after the family had fled south ahead of the Wehrmacht’s drive west. Hounded by the Gestapo in neutral Lisbon, Archduke Otto and his family came to the United States at the invitation of President Franklin Roosevelt and spent the Second World War years in America.

Otto von Habsburg returned to Europe after the Nazi defeat, married Princess Regina of Sachsen-Meiningen, who was working as a nurse at a Munich refuge camp the archduke visited (and whose father, Duke George III, had died in the Soviet Gulag); the couple had seven children, and lived a model Christian family life.

Elected to the European parliament in 1979, Otto von Habsburg spent 20 years as perhaps that body’s most respected member: an adroit debater in seven languages, he kept alive the vision of a post-Cold War Europe reunited as a single civilizational enterprise, built on the sturdy foundations of biblical religion, faith in reason, and commitment to the rule of law. In that sense, Otto von Habsburg was arguably the first modern “European.”

He may also have been the

last. For the European Union, as it has evolved in the early 21st century, has been built around a naked public square in which biblical religion plays no role; faith in reason is faltering under the assault of post-modernism and political correctness; and the rule of law is jeopardized by what another great son of Mitteleuropa, Joseph Ratzinger, has called the “dictatorship of relativism.”

In 2006, I spent a memorable evening discussing this unhappy situation with the Archduke Otto, at an Acton Institute dinner in Rome at which we were seated across the table from one another.

He was not bitter, for he was a man of deep Catholic faith, and thus a man of hope. But he was concerned about Europe’s future, and his concerns have turned out to be entirely prescient.

Otto von Habsburg’s father, Emperor Karl, was beatified by John Paul II in 2004. The late pope once greeted Archduke Otto’s mother, Empress Zita, by saying that he was “happy to receive the widow of my father’s last sovereign.” It is entirely safe to say that we shall not see their likes again.

May they rest in peace.

George Weigel is Distinguished Senior Fellow of the Ethics and Public Policy Center in Washington, D.C.

Planking, coning, and owling

Sunday 14 August 2011 — Ocean City, New Jersey — Weird Contest Week begins t’s advisable for a priest to keep his thumb on the pulse of the popular culture; otherwise he might become an old fogey (regardless of age). To avoid this happening to me (perhaps it’s already too late), I have been doing Internet research on how young people spontaneously express themselves these days.

IMD (In My Day), there were several options available to the free-spirited, the daring and the bored. You could ascertain how many goldfish you could swallow

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(I suspect PETA would object to that craze). You could test how many students could squeeze into a phone booth. Where can you find a phone booth today? You

could cram as many people as possible into a Volkswagen “bug” (the production of which ceased in 2003).

I once encountered a street performer at a Renaissance

Faire. He was flat on his back in the middle of a heavily traveled pedestrian pathway. “What, pray tell, are you?” I asked. “I’m a dead poet,” he answered. “Dead poets make much more money than live ones.”

He did.

Well, now we have “planking,” dear readers. You lie perfectly still; face-down, and as stiff as a board, holding your arms close to your body — on a checkout counter, atop McDonald’s golden arches, or across several church pews.

Then there’s “coning.” You order an ice cream cone at a drive-up window and, when the clerk passes it to you; you grab it

Who’s raising the children?

have a friend whose children had various allergies, including a reaction to food dyes. It took some time to identify the cause, but once she removed certain items from their diet, they calmed down, were more attentive and the house ran smoothly. Her parents lived nearby, and as my friend’s family grew, they stepped in to help, taking various children to their home in order to ease the burden on their daughter. Except that it didn’t.

The grandparents of these children thought the “food dye” explanation for the children’s behavior was nonsense, and they gave them whatever they wanted to eat.

After a few days of all sorts of additives, the level of mayhem rose and when the children returned home, they required weeks of detoxing in order for the family to return to normal.

Aside from the chaos in the house, my friend would have to endure the criticism of neighbors, parishioners and passers-by — who wondered (aloud!) what she was doing so very wrong.

This family came to mind as I watched the London riots. At first, there was the standard Marxist explanation that this was a protest by the deprived masses. Surely, many wrote, this is the sordid underbelly of capitalism, in which the rich get richer and the poor simmer in their resentments. Then many others pointed out that these youths were predominantly

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The Anchor

August 19, 2011

fatherless, growing up in government-subsidized projects and deprived of the solid formation that a father would have provided. If only their mothers had been married to good men, they would have given their offspring a much better social framework for success.

Along these lines, even the mainstream papers were tut-tutting the parents [read: mothers] who had lost control of their adolescent

children, and hadn’t properly taught them that it isn’t right to steal and burn down neighborhoods. Surely, a good mother knows where her 12-year-old is on a given night and has him home in bed at a decent hour. Didn’t she notice the new flat screen TV under his bed or the fancy shoes he came home in?

As much as the immediate explanation of parental neglect rings true, it ignores a 50-year failed social experiment in which the parents were marginalized by an entire civil cadre of valuesfree school curricula, social service agencies (handing out free contraceptives), institutionalized adulation of pop stars, widespread immorality, and sneering contempt of religious voices. This is currently the cacophony in

which every parent is asked to raise his or her children, and even the children who have been taught virtue have to run a gauntlet of depravity and scorn while making every choice in life.

It must be pointed out that both of Queen Elizabeth’s grandchildren who were married in such pomp and festivity this year had previously cohabitated with their partners for years. Is it any wonder that from the Royal House down to the most squalid tenement, England has shown its disdain for traditional morality and Christian values? And now, with rampant promiscuity entrenched as a way of life, the very institutions that thumbed their noses at the backwardness of provincial religious thinking have handed the responsibility back to the parents, saying: Heavens! Why didn’t you teach your children to behave?

Yes, the families may be to blame, but they have been prey to social engineers for two generations now — those who discouraged prayer, undermined marriage, turned a blind eye to structural depravity and effectively impeded every group that tried to turn back the tide of moral decay. Sure, it’s easy to blame the families now, but they didn’t simply fall into disarray, they were pushed.

Mrs. Kineke is the author of “The Authentic Catholic Woman.” She lives in Rhode Island and can be found online at feminine-genius.com

by the ice cream, not by the cone.

I am not making this up.

The very latest craze is “owling.” Instead of lying as stiff as a board, you crouch. You perch on a hand railing in your college dorm, on the back of a park bench, or in a tree. Just pretend you’re an owl. It’s a hoot, they say.

My favorite is the “flash mob” (not that I’ve ever participated in one). You get together with 200 or so of your closest Facebook friends and, at a pre-determined time and place, “do your thing.”

Notification of a pending flash mob is made all the easier with the advent of texting.

Flash mobs take advanced planning. You arrive beforehand at a public place (a busy airport or suburban mall). You dress and act like everyone else and then, at exactly the right moment (as determined by your cell phone), you and your friends break into a coordinated routine.

The simplest routine is a “flash freeze.” You suddenly freeze at whatever it is you are pretending to be doing. You and your friends hold the pose for several minutes.

If you are choreographically endowed, you may choose to stage a “flash dance.” The most elaborate flash mobs involve carefully rehearsed singing, dancing and even orchestration. A flash mob performing the “1812 Overture” took place on the Fourth of July weekend at a crowded supermarket on Cape Cod, in Orleans.

Once the public realizes what’s happening in their midst, they whip out their smart phones.

In an instant, videos of your shenanigans appear on YouTube.

You are now famous in major world capitals like Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, and Zambia Lusaka, Zambia.

As with all trends, as soon as they become mainstream, they become passé. There are theater companies devoted to staging

flash mobs. There are television commercials showcasing a product in a flash mob setting.

Now that flash mobs are no longer cutting-edge, I may plan one myself.

A flash mob may be staged, but spontaneity remains a Godgiven gift. Children are spontaneous; so are saints. Those who are closest to God enter into the Divine Presence with joy and spontaneity. Children and saints refuse to take themselves too seriously, even as they stand before God. One of the treasures of the soon-to-be-replaced Roman Sacramentary (Second Typical Edition) is the allowance of a degree of spontaneity. The key is in the rubrics (those instructions to the priest printed in red ink, meant for his eyes only). The code phrase is “in these or other words.” This was a tectonic shift from the days I remember when every word spoken, every gesture made, was prescribed (sometimes under pain of sin). A moralist once figured that a priest could commit 160 sins (some of them mortal) while saying Holy Mass!

When I was a much younger priest, I carefully prepared all my spontaneous comments well in advance, thereby avoiding eternal damnation. I convinced myself I was afraid of making a mistake, but perhaps I just didn’t trust the Holy Spirit.

Now I’m anxiously awaiting the new Roman Missal (Third Typical Edition). I’m not so much interested in the beautiful binding or even in the accuracy of the translation from the original Latin, as I am in the rubrics.

Will some spontaneity still be allowed? The experts say yes.

I hope they’re right. I wouldn’t want to seem as stiff as a “planker.”

Father Goldrick is pastor of St. Nicholas of Myra Parish in North Dighton.

Shrine of The Little Flower of Jesus

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18th Annual Feast Day Celebration First Shrine To St. Theresa In America

Sunday, August 21, 2011 Rain or Shine

10:30 AM ~ Prayers at Holy Stairs 11:15 AM ~ Stations of the Cross 12:00 PM ~ Lunch and Praise & Worship Concert 1:30 PM ~ Outdoor Living Rosary 2:45 PM ~ Procession with St. Theresa 3:00 PM ~ Chaplet of Divine Mercy Solemn Feast Mass - Main Celebrant: Father James T. Ruggieri (Pastor of St. Patrick Church, Providence, R.I.) Blessing with St. Theresa’s Relic ~ Continuous video showing of St. Theresa’s life ~

• Gift Shop • Food & Refreshments • Canopy - Covered benches at outdoor altar • Bus Groups welcome • Priests are invited to concelebrate the Feast Mass • Bring Chairs and umbrellas for the sun

For information please call (401) 568-0575 • (401) 568-8280 E-mail: shiirl@cox.net www.SaintTheresaShrine.com

Shrine is located at intersection of Rt. 102 and Rt. 7 in Nasonville (Burrillville), R.I. (near Wright’s Farm Restaurant)

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By Kenneth J. Souza Anchor Staff

The Anchor

August 19, 2011

Longtime parishioner is always ready to serve

ACUSHNET — If something needs to be done at St. Francis Xavier Parish in Acushnet, chances are Lorraine Gentili will get the call.

“The parish knows they can call me anytime if they need me,” Gentili said. “I’m available on an as-needed basis, and they don’t hesitate because they know I’m there for them. I’ll make the time.”

For nearly a half-century now, Gentili has been a vibrant and active member of the parish.

She’s done everything from making sure the church’s altar linens are cleaned and pressed for Masses, to helping the poor and needy through the St. Vincent de Paul Society, to volunteering at the Damien’s Food Pantry in nearby Wareham.

As a member of the parish she’s called home for the past 48 years, Gentili is probably most proud of her efforts to help those in need through the St. Vincent de Paul Society.

“We help clients as much as we possibly can,” Gentili said. “Some of the cases are on the private side, so I

can’t get into specifics; but “I volunteer there once a we serve a lot of people in month, but they provide food need.” on a weekly basis and we And with the recent economic situation Gentili said there’s been a noticeable increase in the demand for food and clothing.

“We do a lot of baskets and deliver food items for the holidays,” she said. “I’m also a member of the Red Hat Society and we get people to donate canned goods as well.

Everyone who belongs to St. Vincent de Paul is wonderful. They do so much for the poor and needy.

It’s a private thing and sometimes they are embarrassed to ask for help, but they really appreciate it.”

Gentili said she also sees herself doing Christ’s Anchor Person of the Week — Gentili. work through the Damien Food Pantry, which provides groceries serve a lot of people down to families throughout the area. there,” she said. “There are

a lot of other people from St. Francis Xavier Parish who volunteer their time, but they always need more help.”

More recently, Gentili took on the simple but important task of driving people to Masses who didn’t have transportation.

“I’ve been doing that for a while,” she said.

“Sometimes I hear about someone who doesn’t have a family member who can take them and I’ll drive them to Mass. I was taking a woman to Mass for a while and then one of her children starting taking her and now they both go to Mass together.”

Having enrolled her three children in the parish school, Gentili Lorraine knows the importance of a Catholic education. She was involved with a variety of school events in the past and she still volunteers as a chaperone for class trips on occasion.

“My children all attended St. Francis Xavier School and now my grandchildren are there, so two generations of my family have gone through Catholic schools,” she said, proudly. “One just graduated valedictorian from St. Francis and I’ve got one at Bishop Stang High School, so we’re doing OK. To me, a Catholic education is vital. I think it just gives students something extra to guide them in life. I think with everything going on in this world today, a little love and little more room for God is a wonderful thing.”

Even though she’s often running from one task to the next, Gentili said she makes time to attend eucharistic adoration at her church at least

twice a week.

“I try to go every Monday and Wednesday and I try to go to the Benedictions at night, too,” she said. “It’s a calming thing to be able to sit there and talk to God. You know He’s there and I feel very humble to be there in His presence. I go with my ‘Book of Hours’ and it gives me time to meditate. It’s a mind-opening experience; it’s a wonderful feeling.”

Gentili stressed that we all need to take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life to spend time in prayer outside of weekly Mass.

“I think we’re always in a rush all the time, and it’s good to just stop and spend time with God,” she said. “I pray and take out my little worn books and enjoy being there. It keeps me full.”

In addition to a strong faith, Gentili said the other rock in her life is her husband Ernest.

“He is a great guy,” she said. “If I need anything, he’s there. With all the things I do for the parish, if it wasn’t for him staying home with our grandkids, I wouldn’t be able to go. He’s retired now and he does a lot for me.”

When asked what she would say to those who avoid getting more involved in their parish, she doesn’t hesitate to respond.

“I’d say they are losing out,” she said. “They are missing out on getting to know other parishioners and they will gain so much by going out and helping those in need. And everyone out there in every parish needs help. When you help the Church, you feel like you’ve done something special.”

Although initially reluctant to step into the spotlight, Gentili admitted she loves being active in her parish.

“Talking about all that I do out loud is uncomfortable for me, but because I like what I do so much, it’s a joy,” she said. “I just feel blessed.”

To submit a Person of the Week nominee, send an email with information to fatherrogerlandry@ anchornews.org

To advertise in The Anchor, contact Wayne Powers at 508-675-7151 or Email waynepowers@anchornews.org

August 19, 2011

The Anchor

underground inspiration — The small Bible that miner Jose Henriquez used to pray with his fellow trapped miners is displayed recently in “Against All Odds: Rescue at the Chilean Mine,” a new exhibit at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History in Washington. (CNS photo/Rafael Crisostomo, Catholic Standard)

At opening of exhibit on rescue, Chilean miners say God was with them

WASHINGTON (CNS) — The dramatic and uplifting story of survival and a rescue that captivated the world one year ago unfolds in “Against All Odds: Rescue at the Chilean Mine,” a new exhibit at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History in Washington.

The exhibit opened August 5, exactly one year after the mine collapse in Chile, in which all 33 miners survived and were rescued 69 days later.

The technical skill of the rescuers can be seen in the drill bit that cut through nearly one-half mile of rock, and the Fenix rescue capsule constructed by the Chilean navy in consultation with NASA. That capsule was named for the phoenix, the legendary bird that is a symbol of rebirth.

But the human spirit and faith that helped the miners endure is also on display, in the form of a small Bible, about the size of a hand, labeled Santa Biblia (“Holy Bible”), and the exhibit notes, “Miner Jose Henriquez, a committed Christian, read from this Bible when he led the men in daily prayer.”

Displayed next to the Bible is a scuffed blue miner’s helmet, with earphones on the side, and in the front of the helmet, scrawled with a black marker, are the words, “GRACIAS DIOS” (“Thank God.”) That helmet belongs to miner Carlos Barrios, who also is seen in the exhibit in a large photo displayed behind the rescue capsule.

As he emerges to the surface, smiling and waving, he has a simple white rosary around his neck.

At a press preview for the exhibit, Barrios was among four of the rescued miners who stood together, holding a Chilean flag with the number “33” written on the white star.

Different in age, build and looks, they shared a bond as brothers, fellow miners and survivors.

Media reports at the time said the men had prayed together underground, and had requested religious items when they made contact with the surface, and built small shrines to Mary in the mine as they waited together to be rescued.

Above ground, family members, friends and neighbors prayed together for the miners’ safety, their prayers joined by concerned people around the world, including Pope Benedict XVI. At the press briefing, the miners helped introduce the Smithsonian exhibit about their

survival and rescue, and answered reporters’ questions through interpreters. Barrios was asked about the words he had written on his helmet, and how the miners’ faith helped them survive. “The miners, they never thought they were 33. They were 34, because God was with them,” he said.

Another reporter asked the miners how they had endured those first 17 days, when they were about 2,000 feet underground, with no contact yet with the outside world. Miner Jorge Gallegillos, a stocky man with a gray scraggly beard, said: “The most important thing for us was faith, (to) believe in God, and make sure we were going to make it out of there.”

Later, a reporter asked whether they considered the rescuers or the miners themselves to be heroes. Miner Jose Henriquez, an older, clean-shaven man with an air of quiet dignity, stepped to the podium. He was the miner who had led the men in daily prayer with that little Bible.

“I do not consider myself a hero. If there was a hero, it was the 34th person. God brought us together,” he said, noting how they began praying together those first days, and then when contact was made on the 17th day, they asked for a Bible, and that little one was lowered to them. “It was God who guided us through this whole journey.”

The exhibit notes that Chile is the world’s leader in copper production, but on a nearby wall are the words of Chilean President Sebastian Pinera: “The principal wealth of our country isn’t copper, it’s the miners. It isn’t natural resources, it’s the Chileans.”

Speaking at the press briefing, Arturo Fermandois, Chilean ambassador to the United States, said, “We believe this is a story that gave the world a lesson, how the miners suffered, how the miners hoped, how the miners prayed, how the miners succeeded. That’s a beautiful story to the world.”

After the press briefing, Barrios told the Catholic Standard, Washington’s archdiocesan newspaper, that the miners’ ordeal “was difficult, but it wasn’t impossible. It wasn’t impossible for God.” Asked if he felt like a different man since the mine collapse and rescue, he said, “I’ve changed regarding family. We are closer to our families, and also our faith in God. Many of us were not believers or close to God (before the collapse), but down there, I think we were with Him.”

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The Anchor

August 19, 2011

Groundbreaking series on Catholicism to air on PBS this fall

Denver, Colo. (CNA) — A high-definition series exploring the beauty and richness of Catholicism is set to air on more than 80 public television stations across the U.S. this fall.

Father Robert Barron, head of Word on Fire media and the visionary behind the “Catholicism” series, told CNA his hope is that the films will be used “as a tool of evangelization for everybody.”

“I want the series to go out beyond the walls of the Church,” he said in a recent interview. “That’s why we’re so happy it’s going to be on public television.”

Set in 50 locations in more than 16 countries, the series examines major themes within the Church such as the person of Christ, the mystery of God, the Virgin Mary, SS. Peter and Paul, the “missionary thrust of the Church,” the Liturgy and

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the Eucharist, prayer and spirituality and the saints, Father Barron said.

In the episode on the Virgin Mary, for instance, the crew traveled to the Holy Land, France, Mexico and “around the world to see where the Marian faith shows up.”

“The approach I used,” he said, “was just to go to places around the world that visually show the themes I’m talking about.”

Father Barron said that the series comes at time when the U.S. is going through what he believes to be “the darkest period in the history of the American Catholic Church,” and that the “wrong” people are telling the story of what the Church actually is.

He pointed to the secular media’s depiction of the Church “as the place where the sex abuse scandal happened,” a narrative that he finds “so tiresome and counterproductive.”

“I think Catholics from the inside have to tell a much richer, broader, fascinating story,” Father Barron said, stressing the importance of not allowing the Church to be “reduced to the sex abuse scandal.”

He noted that during challenging times in Church history, the saints “tended to come forward in the times of crisis and bring things back to their evangelical basics.”

Taking his cue from the saints, Father Barron said he was inspired to show Catholicism for what it really is.

“Whether its Francis, Dominic, Benedict, or Ignatius —

they came forward at a time of crisis and said, ‘What is the Church fundamentally about?’”

Father Barron also said he wanted to address the modern problem of what he called “domesticating” Jesus.

“I see that happening a lot both in high academic culture and the wider culture too — and that is turning Jesus into one more guru,” along with “sufi mystics, Hindu wisemen, Jewish rabbis or Deepak Chopra.”

“People look around to the spiritual world and then Jesus becomes one more of those figures,” he explained. “And I just think that’s the way to miss Him.” “The Gospel presents Him as this deeply challenging figure,” Father Barron noted. “Jesus is distinctive. He stands out in a sharp profile vis a vis other religious founders and I think Christians have to make that difference clear.”

The Chicago priest, who also holds the Francis Cardinal George Chair of Faith and Culture at the University of St. Mary of the Lake, said the project has taken close to four years to complete since its inception.

After getting permission to begin filming the series from the Archbishop of Chicago, Cardinal Francis George, the team began the unenviable task of fund raising.

“We had to raise about three million dollars to make this possible,” Father Barron said, “so we started in Chicago where we’re based, but we ended up going all over the country.”

Father Barron said the proj-

ect was done on a “shoe-string” budget compared to most productions of this size and that the team traveled in spurts for nearly two years — from 2008 to 2010 — whenever enough money was raised to journey to each location.

“The experience was immeasurable and I’m still unpacking it,” he added.

Noting the quality of the series, he said that top film and production experts from NBC worked with high-definition equipment to capture the lush colors and intricate details of every location. The episodes also feature an original musical score by Chicago composer Steven Mullen.

“That was from the beginning a strong emphasis of mine.

I said, ‘if we’re going to show off this beautiful tradition that we have, I don’t want to do it in some second-rate way,’” Father Barron recalled.

He added that a “wonderful study program” has also been created to go along with the episodes and that it is intended for parish use such as RCIA classes.

The priest expressed his desire that people who are “not religious at all — maybe they’re atheists, agnostics, fallen away Catholics — would see the series and maybe be drawn in by the beauty of it, drawn in by culture, drawn in by history.”

“That’s my hope — that it would be used inside the Catholic world but also as an evangelical tool outside the Catholic world.”

For more information, visit www.catholicismproject.org

that’s a wrap — Father Robert Barron films a segment of the upcoming “Catholicism Project,” to appear on PBS this fall. (Photo from Word On Fire Blog)

August 19, 2011

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The Anchor

Catholic bookstores working hard to compete with online sellers

different worlds — Jessica Chastain and Octavia Spencer star in a scene from the movie “The Help.” For a brief review of this film, see CNS Movie Capsules below. (CNS photo/DreamWorks)

CNS Movie Capsules NEW YORK (CNS) — The following are capsule reviews of movies recently reviewed by Catholic News Service.

“30 Minutes or Less” (Columbia) In this extremely lewd actioncomedy, a pizza delivery man (Jesse Eisenberg) turns to his ex-best friend (Aziz Ansari) for help after two bumbling criminals (Danny McBride and Nick Swardson) strap a bomb to him and order him to rob a bank.

In tackling the theme of male underachievement with sophomoric crudity, director Ruben Fleischer has stitched together a slight but seamy movie that will come as an unpleasant surprise for unsuspecting patrons. Brief graphic sexual activity with upper female nudity, occasional

gunplay and other violence, drug use, frequent explicit sexual humor, pervasive rough, crude, and crass language, and racial and gender slurs. The Catholic News Service classification is O — morally offensive. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R — restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.

“Glee The 3D Concert Movie” (Fox) The popular television show “Glee” leaps to the big screen with a documentary-style look at its ensemble’s live-performance concert tour. On the surface, this appears to be innocent karaoke, with fresh-faced “teens” (most, in reality, well past high school age) expressing their inner angst and searching for acceptance by singing cover versions of popular songs. But the showcasing of dedicated fans, called “Gleeks,” for whom the show serves as a substitute religion, a politically correct gospel of universal tolerance that, among other things, celebrates homosexual behavior,

Diocese of Fall River TV Mass on WLNE Channel 6 Sunday, August 21, 11:00 a.m.

Celebrant is Father Robert A. Oliveira, pastor of Holy Name of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in New Bedford

sets the film irrevocably at odds with Catholic teaching. Explicit endorsement of the homosexual lifestyle, some provocative lyrics and dancing. The Catholic News Service classification is O — morally offensive. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG — parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children.

“The Help” (Disney) This warm, deftly acted drama compellingly portrays the efforts of a rebellious white Southerner and would-be journalist (Emma Stone) to write a book documenting the lives of group of black housemaids (most prominently Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer) in her hometown of Jackson, Miss., in the early 1960s. To complete this secret and potentially dangerous project, the novice reporter braves the opposition of her good-hearted but traditionally minded mother (Allison Janney) and the wildly racist thinking of her privileged peers (personified most viciously by Bryce Dallas Howard). Writer-director Tate Taylor’s adaptation of Kathryn Stockett’s best-selling novel uses vivid characterizations to bring the Civil Rights-era struggle for human dignity alive. But a harsh scatological plot development marks this as off-limits for younger viewers, who might otherwise benefit from its generally uplifting story, and will even be off-putting for many adults.

Graphic scatological theme, brief violence and medical gore, veiled sexual references, a halfdozen uses each of profanity and crude language, a few racial slurs. The Catholic News Service classification is A-III — adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG13 — parents strongly cautioned.

Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.

KING OF PRUSSIA, Pa. (CNS) — Like most small- and medium-size bookstores, shops specializing in Catholic religious books have been hit by the ubiquity of such online giants as Amazon.

“We rely on hard work and God’s grace,” said Helen Dorin of Boric Religious Supply in St. John, Ind., which is going into its third generation as a family-operated book and religious articles store.

“It has hurt us,” she said about Internet book sales. “Customers will come in and browse our books, and then go and order online.”

Booksellers are less sure of the effect that relatively new electronic books are going to have on their market.

Neil McCaffrey III, author of “The Intelligent Catholic’s Guide to Operating a Catholic Bookstore” and a publishing veteran, notes that “as rapidly as e-books are moving, they’re moving fiction rather than nonfiction” and most Catholic book titles are nonfiction.

E-books represent a small segment of the Catholic book market.

Nevertheless, several of the publishers’ representatives interviewed by Catholic News Service at the annual trade show of the Catholic Marketing Network in King of Prussia, said their companies were moving into the e-book market.

Chris Veneklase of Ignatius Press said all their titles being published now and in the future will be offered as e-books, and Ignatius is gradually putting its existing booklist into an e-format. E-books are sold online and not through conventional bookstores; some major Catholic publishers offer downloadable e-books and even phone applications on their sites.

Robb Holzrichter of Liguori Publications said Liguori is starting to publish e-books but will always have traditional books as well. “Kindle or not,” he’s convinced there will always be people “who want the touch and feel of paper.”

Sister Mary Mark, publisher of Pauline Books and Media, said her order, the Daughters of St. Paul, currently offer more than 50 titles in e-books although they have many, many more in print. “Little by little we’re working our way into that format,” she said.

The Daughters of St. Paul operate 13 book centers in the U.S. and one in Canada, all staffed at least part of the time by religious of the community. She said it’s hard to tell what effect online bookselling has had “because of the economic slump all over the country.

“People are more thoughtful in making their choices,” she said, and the dollar amount per purchase

might be smaller than before. For example, she said, a mother coming in with children might still allow each child to choose a book, but it will be a $3.95 or $4.95 book, not one for $23.95.

Several of the bookstore owners spoke of having staff able to help customers as key.

The Daughters of St. Paul do that as an important part of their ministry. Dorin said her Indiana bookstore is 40 miles from the Chicago Loop and serves customers who drive as far as 20 to 40 minutes to it as a “destination store.” People come on a mission, she said, and it’s important to have knowledgeable and sympathetic salespeople available.

“Often they’re scared to admit they’ve never read the Bible,” she said as an example, and for such readers she’ll sometimes recommend a youth Bible that has helpful notes.

“Others are serious Bible students,” and for them she needs to stock Bibles with footnotes and Bible commentaries, she explained.

That means “a lot of money tied up in inventory,” and in recent years she’s found herself trying to spread out her purchases, so that she may have single copies of a variety of books rather than a dozen copies of the latest release by a popular author.

“You do a little bit of ministry,” agreed Patty Broesamle of the Paulist Book Center in Costa Mesa, Calif. “You have to be very cautious about people’s feelings,” she added, as some come into the store looking for a book that will help with a difficult situation.

Bookstore operators agreed that e-books are not currently as big a threat to bookstores as are the online booksellers. “I’ve worked here for a really long time,” Broesamle said, and she believes books are going to be in demand as long as there are people “who want the written word and want to look at it and hold it.”

Carrying religious articles ranging from art to crucifixes to rosary beads help many religious stores keep their heads above water.

Many successful Catholic bookstores have their own websites through which customers can order books and religious items.

They also rely on such tried-andtrue efforts as advertising in diocesan newspapers, parish bulletins, and anywhere they can get a notice posted free or at reasonable cost.

Booksellers’ most often-mentioned complaint, aside from customers who browse and then leave to buy online, is that a diocese or parish will offer courses and advise students to get their books online instead of supporting their local Catholic retailers.

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The Anchor

DCCW adopts reorganization plan to meet members’ needs

By Dave Jolivet, Editor

FALL RIVER — The Fall River Diocesan Council of Catholic Women has been an active ministry in Southeastern Massachusetts since 1953. With the blessing of then-Bishop James L. Connolly, the DCCW was established giving area women the opportunity to join with thousands of Catholic women across the U.S. and the world to support, empower and educate all Catholic women in spirituality, leadership and service, adhering to the Gospel values to the needs of the Church and society in the modern world.

In its nearly 60 years of service to the local Church, the DCCW has adapted to an everchanging world while never losing sight of Church teachings.

Realizing a change in demographics at the local level, council president, Virginia Wade, president-elect Mary Mitchell (to become president in May of 2013), moderator Sister Eugenia Brady, SJC, and other officers have devised a reorganization plan they hope will make it easier for more women to become active members.

“The DCCW still does great things for the Church locally and across the world,” Wade told The Anchor. “And the more women who are with us, the more we can do.”

The major change is the elimination of individual parish guilds and area districts. Now all women, including those who had no parish affiliate in the area, can join the council, be part of the decision-making process, and contribute time and talent based on individual lifestyles and circumstances.

“Hopefully the reorganization will encourage more women to join us in the good work we do,” said Wade. “We would love to have young women join us, but we realize many have families and little free time. We’re hoping to reach women whose children have gone off to college and such. Those who have a bit more free time than they once had. We would love to help fill their time.”

All members are welcome and encouraged to attend the three DCCW meetings held each year; in September, November and March. The meetings will now have a shorter business session, and will include a guest speaker who will share on current Catholic topics and happenings.

“We will bring speakers in who will share on topics that area women would like to know more about,” said Mitchell.

The meetings have been switched from Sunday afternoons to Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to noon, also to accommodate more women whose Sundays are typically devoted to family time.

“In addition to individual women, we’d like to invite diocesan women’s groups to join us,” said Wade. “Right now we currently work with the Daughters of Isabella, Catholic Nurses, and the Pro-Life Apostolate. Again, the more women we have, the more we can do.”

Wade and Mitchell said one of the goals for this year is to focus more on vocations awareness, working with the diocesan Vocations Office, offering assistance in whatever ways they can.

One structural aspect that won’t change is the existence of

This week in 50 years ago — Six Sisters of Mercy were appointed to the first faculty at Bishop Feehan High School in Attleboro. Bishop Feehan High was the second of five planned regional high schools in the Fall River Diocese.

25 years ago — Father Barry W. Wall was presented with the keys to the tabernacle and doors of St. Mary’s Cathedral in Fall River as he was installed as rector and pastor by Msgr. John J. Oliveira, Vicar Episcopal. Also participating in the ceremony were parochial vicars Father Thomas F. McGlynn and Michael K. McManus.

several internal commissions: Church, promoting programs allowing members to focus on spiritual aspects of their faith; Family, assisting families in achieving a true Christian life in areas pertaining to the welfare of all families; Community Concerns, providing opportunities for women to answer the needs of the communities in all areas that affect the life and well-being of all people; International Concerns, working with the international society to effect the quality of life of others outside the U.S.; and Legislation, providing information and a vehicle to influence legislation on selected issues.

Each commission has a chairperson.

The annual DCCW convention will take place in May 2012, with the National convention taking place in Chicago in November. It is there where DCCW officers can meet and share concerns and ideas, and possibly bring back suggestions to enhance the good works being done. “It seems that in different areas of the country, the various councils experience different concerns,” said Wade.

The September meeting will take place at Annunciation of the Lord Parish, 31 First Street, in Taunton on September 24 at 9:30 a.m. The presentation topic will key on the upcoming changes to the Roman Missal in English.

A Day of Recollection will take place on October 22 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at St. Jude the Apostle Parish, Whittenton Street in Taunton, presented by Father Edward A. Murphy.

For information on the Fall River Diocesan Council of Catholic Women, call 508-675-1311.

Diocesan history 10 years ago — Offices in the newly-renovated administration building at St. Francis Xavier Parish in Hyannis were blessed by Bishop Sean P. O’Malley, OFM Cap. The bishop was principal celebrant of a noontime Mass in the church and then performed the blessing.

One year ago — Three Cape Cod-based parishes — Our Lady of the Assumption in Osterville; Our Lady of Victory in Centerville; and St. Francis Xavier in Hyannis — joined forces to create the Barnstable Catholic Collaborative for Ministry, a joint effort to provide more streamlined services for their collective parishioners.

August 19, 2011

Singing the Rite music continued from page one

president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, authorized diocesan bishops to permit the gradual implementation of various musical settings of the order of Mass from the third edition Roman Missal to begin in September, and Bishop George W. Coleman has extended that condition to the parishes of the Fall River Diocese, said Msgr. Avila.

More than 120 music and choral directors from surrounding towns and cities registered for the workshop at the Cathedral, and individuals were able to gather materials that showcased the changes that ranged from minor working adjustments in the “Sanctus,” or “Holy, Holy,” to major revisions in the “Gloria.”

“Some of the styles and phrases of the texts may seem foreign to your ears,” said Msgr.

Avila, but added that the more that parishes continue to work with the changes, “the beauty and layers of the meanings will come forth.”

George Campeau, the director of music ministries at Corpus Christi Parish in East Sandwich, was one of the presenters during the workshop and offered this advice to start early and keep your musical choices the same for each Mass.

“People will be learning things by rote,” he said. “Keep it simple.”

Madeleine Grace eased into her presentation by saying that chanting during Mass is part of the “heritage of the Catholic Church. The ‘Our Father’ was chanted,” said the music director of the Cathedral. “If we don’t use it, it will die.”

Grace offered tips to help directors prepare their congregations: “Teach it as sung speech,” she said. “Every phrase has a kind of tension in it.”

Chanting should not be

viewed as an archaic form of prayer, she said. “It’s not going backwards,” said Grace. “It’s going forward.”

Most of the workshop was presented in the form of hands-on activities as presenters plunged into each piece of music to highlight the changes, all while those attending sang along.

“There are big opportunities that lie before us,” said Denise Morency Gannon, one of the organizers of the workshop. “I think the musical Liturgy is an active worship. Music is a transcendent language, it’s a language beyond what the spoken word can breach, and by placing the Liturgy within a musical context, it has a better chance of opening it up into another spirit.”

Feedback on the workshop was positive, said Gannon. After the workshop was concluded, Grace took a moment to reflect on how the dynamics of prayer and worship will change once the changes take affect.

“I think it’s a wonderful opportunity for us to view how we worship, pray and sing, and if it takes us a few new words to make us take a second look at that, then it’s worth the effort,” said Grace. “People are victims of habit, and I think that if we can just get everybody to pay attention as we help them prepare, that it’s not going to be as difficult as some people may think.”

Two additional music workshops were held a week later: the second one at the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette in Attleboro, and the third was held the following day at Corpus Christi Parish in East Sandwich.

The Roman Missal for both text and music will be officially implemented on the first Sunday of Advent.

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August 19, 2011

San Francisco, Calif.

(CNA) — St. Thomas More Parish in San Francisco is hosting a wedding for as many as 20 couples — one parish’s response to a decline of almost 50 percent in weddings among Catholics in the past two decades.

“We’ll be doing a real shebang. A real wedding,” said Joe Espinueva, a parishioner and organizer of “Operation I Do,” a totally free wedding and reception for couples who were civilly but not sacramentally married or have been in a common law marriage.

“There will be cutting of cake. There will be dancing.

We will want these people to feel they are getting a real marriage from the Church,” said Espinueva.

Parishioners are volunteering to cook dishes, bake cakes, and offering to donate bouquets. Many of the marrying couples’ children will serve as flower girls and ring bearers.

Marriage preparation according to Church norms is under way, said Espinueva.

“We are not trying to do a microwave wedding or a shortcut wedding,” added Espinueva, who said he was sacramentally married at St. Thomas More four years ago, years after entering a civil marriage. The

Spirit moved layman’s push for sacred vows

parish will engage in follow up with the couples after the wedding to keep them engaged spiritually with the Church, Espinueva said.

“We started in our church a campaign to say for those married civilly — let us help you to marry in the Church,” said pastor Msgr. Labib Kobti. “All that I want to do is to bring you back to the Church and make from your wedding a Sacrament. This we called ‘Operation I Do.’” The parish expects numerous priests concelebrating and at least 500 wedding guests.

It will host the reception at the large church hall on St. Thomas More school grounds, said Espinueva. “Msgr. Labib said we will be putting tents outside if that’s not enough space.”Among those who will wed are couples who have been married civilly for 28, 17, 11 years, Msgr. Kobti said.

Espinueva said the Holy Spirit inspired the idea after he saw an article May 27 in Catholic San Francisco describing an archdiocesan decline in Catholic weddings that mirrors national trends. In the Archdiocese of San Francisco, marriage declined 47 percent from 1990 to 2010 while during the same period the number of Catholics in the archdiocese

grew from 395,000 to 444,008.

Archbishop George Niederauer has formed a task force to study the issue.

“There are so many couples in our local Church who could benefit from this kind of outreach,” said Msgr. James Tarantino, archdiocesan vicar for administration and moderator of the curia.

Three St. Thomas More parishioners who are in their third year of training for the diaconate have been interviewing couples and helping them fill out paperwork to marry. The men are Romeo Cruz, Arthur Sanchez, and Marcos Cobillas.

Those couples who may need help with a previous marriage and a divorce are getting assistance in working with the archdiocesan marriage tribunal, Espinueva said.

The owner of a music store in Serramonte Mall, Espinueva said he has been asking his customers if they know any Catholics married civilly but not in the Church. He is also handing out fliers.

That effort, as well as couples who want to become involved with Couples for Christ or the Filipino-couples group “Opening your heart to the Lord” or Bukas Loob SaDiyes, have been the source of most of the couples who will marry, he

Mass. euthanasia bill submitted to attorney general continued from page one

by two witnesses who attest that the patient was not coerced. One witness must not be the patient’s blood relative, beneficiary of the estate or attending physician.

The petition’s backers maintain that euthanasia is “necessary for the welfare of the Commonwealth and its residents.”

In an August 8 email to supporters, Massachusetts Citizens for Life called the initiative, “Our worst nightmare.”

“Polls show that, until they are educated, people fall hook, line and sinker for the death rhetoric. When you read their petition, you will see it is like a siren song,” said Anne Fox, MCFL’s president.

Similar ballot initiatives have been defeated in California in 1988 and 1992, Washington state in 1991, Michigan in 1998 and Maine in 2000. Voters have legalized physician-assisted death in two states — Oregon in 1994 and Washington State in 2008. In Montana, the court system legalized the practice in 2008. There has also been a push to get a euthanasia initiative on Vermont’s ballot over the last few years.

15

The Anchor

In Massachusetts, State House legislators have proposed multiple assisted suicide bills for years. Rep. Louis Kafka (D-Stoughton), who filed a euthanasia bill this legislative session, told the State House News Service that he hoped the ballot initiative would garner more interest in legalizing the practice.

“I think we could work together to the issue’s advantage,” he said.

Final Exit Network paid for a billboard promoting euthanasia in April. Located just outside the Callahan Tunnel in East Boston, the black sign with white letters read, “Irreversible Illness? Unbearable Suffering? Die With Dignity.” Obviously, its message implied that dying with dignity must be done on one’s own terms.

Diametrically opposed, the Catholic faith affirms the inherent value and dignity of all people, including those who are suffering and dying. God, the author of life, chooses our time of death.

On June 6, 2011, the United States Conference of Catholic

Bishops issued a policy statement denouncing assisted suicide. Such action eliminates the patient with the suffering where true compassion meets the suffering patient’s needs.

“Respect for life does not demand that we attempt to prolong life by using medical treatments that are ineffective or unduly burdensome. Nor does it mean we should deprive suffering patients of needed pain medications out of a misplaced or exaggerated fear that they might have the side effect of shortening life,” their statement said.

James Driscoll, executive director of the Massachusetts Catholic Conference, said the four bishops of the state are monitoring the initiative here, adding that they strongly oppose physician-assisted suicide.

“The Massachusetts bishops and the bishops across the country have consistently and firmly spoken out against any attempt to end life in any way other than natural death. Their position is that life is precious and God-given,” he said.

said. Both groups require couples to have been sacramentally married to participate.

The effort to help couples marry in the Church is also an initiative of the Family Ministry in the Latino community of the archdiocese, said Father Francisco Gamez. Twenty-five couples were wed at St. Mary’s Cathedral in a ceremony presided over by Bishop William Justice on August 13. Several other parishes have similar events, archdiocesan officials said.

Couples have not married in the Church for many reasons, Espinueva said. Obtaining baptismal certificates, or divorce certifications from other countries or jurisdictions is difficult. The marriage preparation process is unwieldy for some.

“Another reason they have been telling me, they are embarrassed because they have been living together for quite some time and have not received the Sacrament of Matrimony,” he said.

An actual wedding date is not yet set as the parish races to complete all the paperwork, Espinueva said. Espinueva is a cochairman of Catholics for the Common Good which is battling efforts to legalize samesex marriage as well as promoting sacramental marriage

in the Church.“I would like to put it in the context of this saint who was killed by protecting marriage, St. Thomas More,” Msgr. Kobti said. “Harry the VIII wanted to get married and he wanted to divorce his wife and this, our saint, said, no, you cannot divorce.” St. Thomas More was beheaded July 6, 1535, and King Henry VIII defied the pope leading to the formation of the Church of England. “He died protecting marriage,” Msgr. Kobti said.

Referring to the years when he could not receive holy Communion because he was not in a blessed marriage, Espinueva said, “The feeling of being able to receive the holy Eucharist without any conscience is so beautiful. Most of these people are not receiving holy Communion because they know they cannot and they are so eager to be married so they eventually can receive Jesus Christ.”

“This is not my project, this is the Holy Spirit’s project,” said Espinueva. “I think the Holy Spirit planned everything.

We just opened all our hearts.

We are doing all this out of love. It’s just a four-letter word, but it takes a lot of time to practice.”

For more information, contact Joe Espinueva at operationido@yahoo.com.

Youth Pages

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August 19, 2011

Program brings parents, students together continued from page one

“Then, beginning next month, we’ll have a meeting every other month, either on a Saturday morning or a Sunday afternoon, for parents and students, where we hope to continue the students’ lessons on the faith, and introduce Catholic teachings to the parents.”

The parent-student gatherings will consist of an opening prayer, a “family” meal in the parish hall, followed by a 45-minute catechetical session, at which time the students will be broken up into four groups: pre-school, grades one to three, four to six, and seven to nine. All those who have made the Sacrament of Confirmation will meet as another group.

“This year we will be concentrating on Church feasts and seasons,” said Wilk. “Each meeting will have a different topic. For example, our first meeting will key in on the Catholic Church’s ordinary time.”

A wrap-up session and sharing will follow the lessons, capped off by a closing prayer. “There will be take-home materials for everyone,” added Wilk. “These will provide an added enrichment for families about each topic.

“We hope to refresh some of the things the parents learned,” said Father Sullivan. “And to teach those who don’t know some Church teachings. We’re taking this a little bit by a little bit. The problem of people not being aware of Church teachings didn’t happen overnight, so it can’t be rectified overnight, but we’re working toward it.”

“Our hope is to bring adults back to the faith, and make them want to be there and attend Mass and feel the love of Christ. We also hope to inspire families to pray to-

gether,” added Wilk.

The summer class session for students recently wrapped up and according to Wilk, “It was phenomenal.” More than 300 students took part and because of the large numbers, the parish had to rent space at nearby Wareham High School to house the children comfortably.

“I was pleasantly surprised at how well it went,” said Wilk. “The students were happy to be there.

In fact, I’ve never seen that many smiling faces at Religious Education classes before. It was like summer camp for them.”

Wilk prepared a syllabus based loosely on a similar national program, for the teachers who were hired by the parish. “Our program was completely original and geared towards our students and staff,” said Wilk.

The hired teachers, who were paid a stipend, had various backgrounds including retired teachers, teachers at Bishop Stang High School, St. Margaret’s School in Buzzards Bay, Holy Family-Holy Name School in New Bedford, and public school teachers. “But all of our teachers had to be practicing Catholics,” added Wilk.

The new instructors went through a training session and also as a group attended a guided “Living In Christ” retreat. “We also brought in two individuals from Loyola Press from whom we bought all our materials,” said Wilk.

The five daily sessions ran from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. “In fact, the students put in more classroom hours in one week than they would at weekly sessions throughout the year,” said Wilk.

The day began with the entire student body attending the 8 a.m.

faith walk — Faith Formation teachers at St. Patrick’s Parish in Wareham lead students from morning Mass at the church to Wareham High School, where they attended a new summer Religious Education program.

Mass at St. Patrick’s Church. “The daily Mass attendees adapted well to the 300 students there every day,” said Wilk. “Even though they couldn’t sit in their usual pews.”

Wilk added that the students, including the little ones, were well behaved at Mass. “In fact one of our Masses fell on First Friday and the students experienced exposition of the Blessed Sacrament,” she said. “I was a bit worried about the little ones, but they were great.

You could hear a pin drop.”

Following Mass, the herd of students walked over to the high school for classroom sessions, lunch, free/play time, and a wrapup session.

Things went very smoothly the entire week. “On the first day about 10 students forgot to bring a lunch,” shared Wilk. “But that

turned into a learning experience because their classmates shared their lunches with them.”

“I’ve received very positive feedback from parents, teachers and students,” Father Sullivan told The Anchor. “Some teachers, particularly those from secular schools, were a bit nervous, but I told them to ‘just plant the seed,’ and that allayed their anxieties.”

Father Sullivan said that some parents and students came to a recent Mass to share their good experiences with the parishioners.

Lesson topics for the week included the Rosary, at which time students in grades three to nine received a Rosary and prayed it together, and a day devoted to vocations lead by diocesan seminarian Chris Peschel.

Father Ron Floyd, a parochial vicar at St. Patrick’s was “recruited” as a teacher by Wilk. He led the first- and second-graders on a tour of the church and later in the week gave a Pro-Life presentation to the eighth- and ninth-graders.

“For some the teachers, the highlight of the week was witnessing all the students attending daily Mass,” added Father Sullivan.

“They really enjoyed that.”

Fathers Sullivan and Floyd and Wilk are hoping the positive summer experience will carry over into the student-parent sessions.

“The kids really loved being there this summer,” Wilk told The Anchor. With regards to the blended sessions, she said, “Their relationship with Jesus is the most important thing.”

Send us your summer youth program photos!

We’d love to run them. schools@anchornews.org

lunch time — Father John M. Sullivan, pastor of St. Patrick’s Parish in Wareham, has lunch with Faith Formation students who attended the parish’s new summer Religious Education program.

The Anchor is always pleased to run news and photos about our diocesan youth.

If schools or parish Religious Education programs, have newsworthy stories and photos they would like to share with our readers, send them to: schools@anchornews.org

August 19, 2011

M

Youth Pages

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Faithfully Christian

ore than 75 percent of the U.S. population professes to be Christian. I find that statistic mind-boggling. In the back of my head I can hear the Jack Johnson song “Where Have All the Good People Gone?”

Why is it that we so often tend to ignore our professed faith in God and God’s teachings when making the practical decisions of our lives?

We seem to put our religion in one compartment of our lives rather than allowing it to transform all of our lives. Catholicism, or any denomination of Christianity, is not meant to be a mere label directing us to a particular church on Sunday.

Christianity was originally referred to as “The Way” because it was, and still is, a radically different way to live. It was not a popular way to live when it started, and it’s not popular today.

Initially Christians were persecuted and killed for living

the Way. Today, the faithof Christ, living the way ful are still persecuted, but He calls us to live, there is many in the U.S. prefer to no way our country would bow to the social pressures be in the state that it is in of being politically correct … or our Church for that rather than be ridiculed and matter. Have you seen the berated for being faithfully latest teen-age craze hitting Christian. If we profess that sex outside of marriage is sinful, we run the risk of being labeled a prude. If we profess that marriage should

By Jean Revil be between a man and a woman, we may be called homophobes. If we call someone cities around the country? on their vulgar language or It’s called the “flash rob”: a crude jokes, we may not be perverted twist of the flash accepted. If we choose to mob where teen-agers use pray in public we are acTwitter and texts to converge cused of infringing on the on a street or a store to rob, freedoms of the .4 percent of vandalize and terrorize. They Americans who are atheists. have appeared in PhiladelEnough already! We are just phia, Chicago, and Washtrying to be faithful to the ington D.C. to name a few teachings of Christ and His cities. What has happened Church. Are we not entitled to us? How could we be so to that religious freedom? far from the call of love and If we were truly disciples unity that Christ presented

to us and invited us into?

We are allowing evil to gain a stronger and stronger foothold and it is blatantly flaunted before us. We need to recognize it and name it for what it is … and we need to fight against it.

It is long past the time to stand up and proudly display a different way of life with a different set of values. Chapters four, five and six of Paul’s letter to the Ephesians lay out for us a summary of what the daily life of a Christian should look like.

Let’s start with speaking the truth rather than lies. That would be radical … no more lies, to anyone, even if we’re afraid of getting into trouble.

Tell the truth always. And St. Paul tells us that it’s OK to be angry, but be angry about the right things. Be angry about evil penetrating our lives. Be angry that people

are settling for less that what God wants for them. Don’t steal. We need to do honest work of any kind, and share what we make with those who have less. We need to stop swearing. Honestly, some people use swears almost every other word. It’s not necessary and it’s not helpful. We need to use our language to build people up and impart grace to those who hear us. It’s become too easy to tear each other down or bring each other down. It has to stop.

I encourage everyone who reads this to pick up a Bible and read Ephesians 4:256:20. Then I would encourage all of us to start putting these things into practice and teaching them our friends and families. We can become the people God calls us to be!

Jean Revil teaches theology and is campus minister at Bishop Stang High School.

Comments welcome at: jrevil@ bishopStang.com

WASHINGTON (CNS) — Although the phrase “consubstantial with the Father” might not roll off the tongues of Catholic youths, Church officials and catechists hope its meaning will sink in when it is said in the Nicene Creed later this year.

Consubstantial, which means “of the same essence,” is closer to the Creed’s original Latin and Greek text and basically holds more theological punch than “one in being with the Father,” the phrase it replaces. It is one of several changes in Mass responses that are part of the revised edition of the Roman Missal to be implemented in Catholic churches November 27.

One pastor explained this specific change in a recent Sunday bulletin noting that “consubstantial” reflects the “language of theology, the language the ancient Church fathers carefully constructed to take a stab at the mystery of Christ’s divinity. ‘One in being’ uses slightly more AngloSaxon words. It demystifies the theological language.”

“Part of the intent behind the new translation is to re-mystify — in the best sense of the word,” wrote Father John Terry, pastor of Our Lady of Hope Parish in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. That sense of mystery and transcendence of God — or recognizing that God is beyond human perception — is something children and teens should pick up

from the revised missal said Mau- ages, she said, is to “understand a of the keys to helping implement reen Kelly, author of “What’s New little more fully the meaning and this. For one thing, they are not About the Mass,” aimed specifi- mystery of Eucharist.” She said as wedded to tradition. In tocally at third- to seventh-graders, the new responses are easy enough day’s culture everything is always and “What’s New About the Mass to learn but the reasoning behind changing. New is not something for Teens.” Both are published by these changes might be easier for they’re afraid of.”

Liturgy Training Publications in older adults — who have been But just picking up new exChicago. through the Mass change from pressions is one thing; getting the Kelly, who new rhythm of the spoke to CathMass responses is olic News Seranother challenge vice from her and a particular home in Kanone for young sas City, Mo., people, he said, said the wordbecause it doesn’t ing in the new flow with their missal “brings natural way of in more of a communicating. sense of tranTeen-agers are scendence, accustomed to evwhich young erything in shortpeople haven’t hand, like abbreviexperienced.” ated text messages She said no problem — Father Richard Hilgartner, executive di- and 140-character children and rector of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Secre- tweets, he said, teen-agers al- tariat on Divine Worship, says he doesn’t think the wording which is comready get the in the new Roman Missal will be a problem for teen-agers pletely different sense that and suspects they will catch on faster than the rest of the from the commuGod is close Catholic population. (CNS photo) nication and lanto them and a guage of prayer. part of their personal lives, which Latin to English — to grasp.

“Prayer is not just about getcatechists describe as God’s imFather Richard Hilgartner, ting a message across in as few manence. “The challenge is to executive director of the U.S. words as possible. Prayer is about achieve the balance of immanence Conference of Catholic Bishops’ creating a relationship,” he said. and transcendence,” she said.

Secretariat on Divine Worship, is And the Liturgy itself has its own In her books and in workshops convinced the new words won’t language: “one where catechesis she leads, preparing catechists be a problem for teen-agers and helps people understand” what is to teach the new missal, Kelly suspects they will catch on faster happening. stresses that young people need to than the rest of the Catholic popuThat’s where Religious Educaunderstand the scriptural context lation. tion classes and parish workshops for the new responses in the Mass.

He frequently tells parish lead- come in.

The biggest challenge for all ers that young people “hold one Kelly said the new missal has

provided an opportune teaching moment because it gives people of all ages the chance to review the whole Mass.

Lisa Garcia, resource director for Life Teen, the Arizona-based national program for Catholic teen-agers, agreed.

“The Mass is the centerpiece of our catechism anyway and this gives us an opportunity to continue this dialogue again, to pause and think about the words we’re saying,” she said.

Since last fall Garcia has been working on “Word for Word,” a book and DVD introducing teens and their parents to the new missal. Requests for the materials have been increasing, she said, especially as parishes realize the deadline is approaching for switching to the new missal.

Garcia thinks teen-agers will not have a problem with the changes, noting that “change isn’t as dramatic” for them and that they will likely appreciate how the new missal links them with the universal Church.

The key is explaining the “why behind it,” she said, helping teens connect the dots between Scriptures and the Mass responses and also getting them to understand that “words we say matter and words we say collectively have power.”

If that message gets across, she said, then “come November 27, they might be the ones who know it and can lead the way.”

Be Not Afraid

Teens likely to adapt quickly to new missal, say catechists

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Around the Diocese 8/20

Courage, a welcoming support group for Catholics wounded by same-sex attraction who gather to seek God’s wisdom, mercy and love will next meet tomorrow at 7 p.m. For location information call Father Richard Wilson at 508-992-9408.

8/21

The sixth annual Motorcycle Run to benefit St. Vincent’s Home, 2425 Highland Avenue, Fall River, will take place Sunday beginning at 9 a.m. The 50-mile bike run will travel through the scenic back roads of Freetown, Dartmouth and Fall River, ending back at St. Vincent’s Home for a cookout, raffle and silent auction. Trophies for favorite bike as judged by St. Vincent’s youth will be awarded. To register or for more information call 508-235-3228 or email melissad@stvincenthome.org

8/21

The Shrine of the Little Flower, St. Theresa’s Church and Shrine at the intersections of Routes 102 and 7 in Nasonville, R.I., will celebrate its 18th annual feast from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Sunday with a Solemn Feast Mass at 3:15 p.m. with Father Gerard J. Caron as principal celebrant and homilist. For more information call 401-568-0575.

8/25

The diocesan Divorced and Separated Support Group will have an open meeting on August 25 beginning at 7 p.m. in the parish center of St. Julie Billiart Parish, 494 Slocum Road, North Dartmouth. There will be time reserved for all participants to speak and everyone is welcome. Parking is available to the left of St. Julie’s Church.

8/27

A Big Band Night Dance for Life will be held August 27 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Our Lady of the Cape Parish Center, 468 Stony Brook Road, Brewster. The popular Silver Foxes Jazz Band will entertain with dance favorites, old and new. Free admission and refreshments. Donations will benefit Massachusetts Citizens for Life.

8/29

The Diocesan Health Facilities’ Fourth Annual Golf Classic will be held August 29 at LeBaron Hills Country Club in Lakeville. All proceeds will benefit the more than 900 individuals served in the skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers and community programs within the Fall River Diocese. For details on the various levels of participation available, call 508-679-8154.

More information and registration forms are available online at www.dhfo.org

9/8

The Lazarus Ministry of Our Lady of the Cape Parish in Brewster is offering a six-week bereavement support program called “Come Walk With Me” that begins September 8 and runs through October 13 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The program meets in the parish center and is designed for people who have experienced the loss of a loved one within the past year. Pre-registration is required and there is a nominal charge for materials. Please call 508-385-3252 or 508-3858942 to register or for more information.

9/24

The Women’s Guild at Immaculate Conception Parish in Fall River will be sponsoring a Flea Market on September 24 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. They will be accepting clean items in good condition September 14 through September 23, which can be dropped off at the church hall on County Street. For more information call 508-674-8695 or email dotnic566@verizon.net

9/24

The Fall River District Council of the St. Vincent de Paul Society will host the fourth annual Friends of the Poor Walk at 10 a.m. on September 24 beginning at Kennedy Park in Fall River at the corner of Bradford Avenue and South Main Street. All proceeds will directly benefit those in need in greater Fall River. For more information call the Thrift Store at 508-672-9129, Lou Yokell at 508-642-3440, or visit svdpfriendsofthepoorwalk.org

The Anchor Gov. Hugh Carey remembered as ‘superb public servant’

NEW YORK (CNS) — Former New York Governor Hugh Carey, who died August 7 at age 92, was “a superb public servant whose commitment to our nation and state was extraordinary,” said Bishop Howard J. Hubbard of Albany. Carey, a Catholic, “demonstrated great vision and courage in confronting the fiscal crisis in New York City in a bipartisan fashion, while at the same time protecting the needs of the most vulnerable in our Empire State: the poor, children, the mentally ill and the elderly,” Bishop Hubbard said. A funeral Mass was celebrated August 11 at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York.

Carey served two terms as governor, from 1975 to 1982, and before that he served seven terms as a congressman.

While he was governor, Carey was an opponent of the death penalty but a supporter of legal abortion. He later reversed his opinion on abortion and became Pro-Life.

He told a March for Life crowd in Washington in 1990 that while in office he agreed with state money funding abortions and was unaware of the true nature of the issue.

In Your Prayers Please pray for these priests during the coming weeks Aug. 20 Rev. Bernard H. Unsworth, Retired Pastor, St. Mary, New Bedford, 1982 Rev. Thomas Cantwell, SSJ, Retired, St. Joseph’s Seminary, Washington, 1983 Aug. 21 Most Rev. Lawrence S. McMahon, Bishop of Hartford, Former Pastor, St. Lawrence, New Bedford, 1893 Aug. 22 Rev. Msgr. Manuel J. Teixeira, Pastor, St. Anthony, Taunton, 1962 Rev. William R. Jordan, Pastor, St. Louis, Fall River, 1972 Rev. Msgr. Joseph C. Canty, USN Retired Chaplain, Retired Pastor, St. Paul, Taunton, 1980 Msgr. John F. Denehy, USAF Retired Chaplain, 2003 Aug. 23 Rev. Thomas F. Clinton, Pastor, St. Peter, Sandwich, 1895 Msgr. Anthony M. Gomes, PA, Retired Pastor, Our Lady of the Angels, Fall River, 1992 Aug. 24 Rev. Peter J.B. Bedard, Founder, Notre Dame de Lourdes, Fall River, 1884 Very Rev. James F. Gilchrist, CPM VG., Vicar General of the Congregation of the Fathers of Mercy, 1962 Rev. Msgr. James E. Gleason, Retired Pastor, St. Patrick, Falmouth, 1987 Aug. 25 Rev. Joseph F. Hanna, CSC, Founder, Holy Cross, South Easton, 1974 Rev. Thomas E. Lawton, CSC., 2002

August 19, 2011

Eucharistic Adoration in the Diocese

Acushnet — Eucharistic adoration takes place at St. Francis Xavier Parish on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays and Fridays 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturdays 8 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays end with Evening Prayer and Benediction at 6:30 p.m.; Saturdays end with Benediction at 2:45 p.m.

ATTLEBORO — St. Joseph Church holds eucharistic adoration in the Adoration Chapel located at the (south) side entrance at 208 South Main Street, Sunday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

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 following the 11 a.m. Mass until 7:45 a.m. on the First Saturday, concluding with Benediction and Mass. buzzards Bay — Eucharistic adoration takes place at St. Margaret Church, 141 Main Street, every first Friday after the 8 a.m. Mass and ending the following day before the 8 a.m. Mass.

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 Sandwich — Eucharistic adoration takes place at the Corpus Christi Parish Adoration Chapel, 324 Quaker Meeting House Road, Monday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday, 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. Also, 24-hour eucharistic adoration takes place on the First Friday of every month.

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, following the 8 a.m. Mass until Benediction at 8 p.m.

FAIRHAVEN — St. Mary’s Church, Main St., has eucharistic adoration every Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. to noon in the Chapel of Reconciliation, with Benediction at noon. 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 — Espirito Santo Parish, 311 Alden Street, Fall River. Eucharistic adoration on Mondays following the 8:00 a.m. Mass until Rosary and Benediction at 6:30 p.m.

FALL RIVER — Notre Dame Church, 529 Eastern Ave., has eucharistic adoration on Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the chapel.

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 until 6 p.m. in the Daily Mass Chapel. There is a bilingual Holy Hour in English and Portuguese from 5-6 p.m. Park behind the church and enter the back door of the connector between the church and the rectory.

Falmouth — St. Patrick’s Church has eucharistic adoration each First Friday, following the 9 a.m. Mass until Benediction at 4:30 p.m. The Rosary is recited Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.

HYANNIS — A Holy Hour with eucharistic adoration will take place each First Friday at St. Francis Xavier Church, 347 South Street, beginning immediately after the 12:10 p.m. Mass and ending with adoration at 4 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 takes place 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 233 County Street, with night prayer and Benediction at 8:45 p.m., and Confessions offered during the evening.

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.

NORTH DARTMOUTH — Eucharistic adoration takes place at St. Julie Billiart Church, 494 Slocum Road, every Tuesday from 7 to 8 p.m., ending with Benediction. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is available at this time.

NORTH DIGHTON — Eucharistic adoration 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.

OSTERVILLE — Eucharistic adoration takes place at Our Lady of the Assumption Church, 76 Wianno Avenue on First Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and every Friday from noon to 5 p.m., with Benediction at 5 p.m.

SEEKONK ­— Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish has 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.

WAREHAM — Adoration with opportunities for private and formal prayer is offered on the First Friday of each month from 8:30 a.m. until 8 p.m. at St. Patrick’s Church, High Street. The Prayer Schedule is as follows: 7:30 a.m. the Rosary; 8 a.m.

Mass; 8:30 a.m. exposition and Morning Prayer; 12 p.m. the Angelus; 3 p.m. Divine Mercy Chaplet; 5:30 p.m. Evening Prayer; 7 p.m. Sacrament of Confession; 8 p.m.

Benediction.

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 from other parishes are invited to sign up to cover open hours. For open hours, or to sign up call 508-430-4716.

WOODS HOLE — Eucharistic adoration takes place at St. Joseph’s Church, 33 Millfield Street, year-round on weekdays 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. No adoration on Sundays, Wednesdays, and holidays. For information call 508-274-5435.

August 19, 2011

I

was sitting in my office on Monday watching heavy rains saturate the streets and lawns outside.

I was lamenting the fact that my Sunday was a washout, and worse yet, there is a threat of rain for Friday, the day I’m scheduled to go golfing.

Shaking off such negative thoughts, I dove back into work and almost at once, was struck by a bolt of lightning. Not from the storm clouds outside, but from my computer screen just a few feet from my face.

While scanning the Catholic News Service website for copy for this week’s Anchor, I came across the photograph you see below. It’s the face of a young lad in Somalia who may never have the chance to become a young man. It’s the face of a young lad who would do anything for the rain that was pelting my windows. It’s the face of a young lad who has no home, probably no family, and very little if anything to eat.

Sometimes, in fact many times, my view from the stands is through rose-colored glasses. I sit here and whine about how the Red Sox can’t shake the Yankees in the American League East. I complain about how the Patriots haven’t won a Super Bowl in a few years, and I curse the skies for threatening to rain on my golf date.

Sometimes I hate my view from the stands — the fact that it’s so narrow it shuts off my brothers and sisters with real problems, real worries, real tragedies ... like my little buddy in the picture.

There are 12 million people in Eastern Africa like my little friend, who are in dire need of food, water and

not a pretty sight — An internally displaced boy with flies on his face stands outside a shelter in Hodan district, south of Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, recently. The U.N. humanitarian affairs office says that more than $1.4 billion in donations is still needed to combat the regional drought, which has left 12 million people in need of urgent aid. (CNS photo/Feisal Omar, Reuters)

Be sure to visit the Diocese of Fall River website at fallriverdiocese.org The site includes links to other diocesan and national sites, including The Anchor.

The Anchor

It’s not his fault

medicine. Millions trek across scorched deserts to reach already-overfilled refugee camps. Many don’t survive the trip. Many others won’t find any assistance when they do get there.

That’s like taking the entire populations of New York City and Los Angeles and asking them leave home with no possessions and walk across miles of barren, lifeless earth, only so they can starve to death as a reward for

My View From the Stands

By Dave Jolivet

their efforts.

I looked at my life and realized I don’t even think about the essentials I take for granted. I guess I think I deserve it. I see others who can go on elaborate trips or own the best of everything, and they feel they deserve it. Then I see the people with less than nothing in East Africa ... do they too deserve it? I see the smiling, waving masses of joyous young people who were blessed to be able to attend World Youth Day in Spain juxtaposed against the fly-covered face of my little pal in the

19 picture. It’s not his fault. There’s no rhyme or reason for the haves and have nots ... it’s just that we can’t forget about the have nots who experience things most of us don’t even have nightmares about.

I must admit that I did see this picture before, and I quickly passed over it ... just like I instantaneously change the channel when commercials for East African relief appear on the my high-def TV. They make me feel guilty as I sit there chomping on a fistful of Doritos. But changing the channel doesn’t erase the problem.

After downloading this photo, I went online to research reputable agencies handling relief efforts in that region ... agencies that don’t get bogged down in politics and red tape. I sent a donation roughly equalling what an 18-hole round of golf would cost at a decent country club.

Still, I felt like my effort was like a grain of sand on a 10-mile long beach; like it was just a drop in the bucket.

But then I thought of how these people would give anything for a drop in the bucket. And I also hoped and prayed that others would add a drop so that eventually the bucket will begin to fill.

Sometimes I’m embarrassed by my lack of appreciation for having what I have. Sometimes I have to apologize to our heavenly Father for my callousness.

Sometimes He gently nudges me into action.

If I could, I would apologize to my little friend for finding his image so repulsive that I initially swept him under the rug. He’s a child of God, and I realize the famine in East Africa is not his fault.

20

The Anchor

Visit The Anchor online at http://www.anchornews.org

August 19, 2011