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Local DCCW president on national board to lead NCCW into its second century of service and commitment to the Church By Dave Jolivet
JolivetDB@comcast.net
FALL RIVER — With just months to go before its 100th birthday, the National Council of Catholic Women remains a vibrant source that empowers and educates women across the country in their Spirituality, service and leadership abilities within themselves and the Church. In its mission statement, the NCCW stresses its programs “respond with Gospel values to the needs of the Church and society in the modern world.” The modern world 100 years ago and today are drastically different in some ways, yet very similar in others. One thing that hasn’t changed is the council’s commitment to Catholic women in the many roles they embrace in the secular world and in the Universal Church. Helping to lead the NCCW into its second century of service is the
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Beth Mahoney, Fall River DCCW President and NCCW Region Director president of the Fall River Diocese’s Council of Catholic Women, Beth Mahoney. Mahoney, who is a member of St. Mary’s Parish in Taunton and also principal at St. Stanislaus School in Fall River, was elected this past August as the NCCW Boston Region director for two years and is a member of the national group’s board of directors. “I was pleased to have
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been elected,” Mahoney told The Anchor. “I have some experience at the national level having served as chairman of the Spirituality Committee from 2015-2017 and the Education Committee from 2018-2019. “I have definitely benefited from getting to know and work with women across the country, and I’m delighted to be able to continue doing so representing the
Northeast dioceses.” The Boston Region encompasses DCCWs in the dioceses of Springfield, Worcester and Fall River as well as the Archdiocese of Boston in Massachusetts, and the Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine dioceses. The board of directors leading the NCCW into its second 100 years is responsible for coordinating activities
and projects for Catholic women across the country. In addition, the board insures that the NCCW bylaws are upheld at the national level. Locally, as Boston regional director, Mahoney will provide advice to members at large, assist and direct local councils in proper record-keeping and maintaining accurate financial records. Additionally, Mahoney makes a concerted effort to represent the NCCW at all diocesan events across the Northeast, keeping the different councils up-to-date on national happenings. The NCCW board of directors meets three times a year in Washington, D.C. to share thoughts, ideas, successes and failures in councils in all dioceses in the United States. “We share experiences of what is going on in our particular councils,” said Mahoney. “We can pro8 Turn to page 11
† Diocese of Fall River †
Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V. By the Grace of God and the Favor of the Apostolic See Bishop of Fall River
OFFICIAL
A ppointments
DECREE In consultation with the Presbyteral Council, I hereby establish the policy of Clerical attire for Permanent Deacons in the Diocese of Fall River. While the wearing of clerical attire is optional, it is granted in order to facilitate entry into correctional facilities, hospitals, and other institutions; to present a clear public sign that a Permanent Deacon is an ordained minister of the Catholic Church; to serve as a witness that may prompt other men to speak to a Permanent Deacon about the diaconate or priesthood; and to remind the Permanent Deacon of his Christ-centered life in service to the Gospel. A clerical collar may be worn on such occasions as: prison ministry, hospital visits, nursing homes, funerals, weddings, Baptisms, or situations representing the Catholic Church within the Diocesan boundaries. Clerical garb will not be worn in secular non-ministerial situations. In the Diocese of Fall River, when clerics are worn, the specific color shall be grey with either an embroidered deacon cross or pin above the left pocket. If a suit jacket is worn, then a nametag or deacon lapel pin must also be worn. This policy shall remain in effect until such time that it may be amended by the Bishop of Fall River. I also decree that this policy be distributed to all Permanent Deacons, all Pastors and Priests, and communicated to the faithful in the parishes. Given at the Chancery on the 28th day of August in the year Two Thousand Nineteen.
His Excellency, the Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D., Bishop of Fall River, has made the following appointment:
Rev. Monsignor John J. Oliveira, P.A., Spiritual Advisor/Moderator of the New Bedford Catholic Woman’s Club Effective: August 28, 2019 †††††††††† His Excellency, the Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D., Bishop of Fall River, has made the following appointments: Deans Very Reverend Timothy P. Reis, V.F. – Attleboro Deanery Reverend Monsignor Stephen J. Avila, V.F. – Cape Cod Deanery Very Reverend Jay T. Maddock, V.F. – Fall River Deanery Very Reverend Daniel W. Lacroix, V.F. – New Bedford Deanery Very Reverend Richard E. Degagne, V.F. – Taunton Deanery Effective: September 1, 2019 †††††††††† His Excellency, the Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D., Bishop of Fall River, has made the following appointments: Sister Paulina Hurtado, O.P., Diocesan Coordinator of Hispanic Ministry while remaining Episcopal Representative for Religious and Associate Director of Vocations Reverend Craig A. Pregana, Chairman of the implementation of V Encuentro for the Diocese of Fall River while remaining Pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe at Saint James Parish in New Bedford Effective: October 1, 2019
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Diocese of Fall River Academy announces partnership with Taunton’s Morton Hospital TAUNTON — Earlier this year, the Diocese of Fall River announced the establishment of an Academy as a strategic platform for developing partnerships with higher education institutions as well as corporations and other organizations. The Academy is pleased to announce a partnership with Morton Hospital in Taunton, effective immediately in order to impact this current academic school year. The partnership with Morton Hospital will allow Catholic high school juniors and seniors to participate as interns in an area of interest to the student. If a student does not have a specific area of interest, the Morton Hospital internship leaders will construct a program that allows the student to rotate through many different departments. Students may not realize that there are vast career opportunities in human resources, IT, finance, and supplies management, as well as in patient care. “We absolutely love exposing students to the many wonderful career opportunities offered by our hospital,” said Krystal Hilton, Morton Hospital’s chief nursing officer. “Our leadership team is very committed to this program, as it educates our future employees. I have also experienced such enthusiasm when a student finds that perfect match between their interest and 4
a hospital mentor. There is no greater feeling than being able to give back and help the next generation.” Steve Perla, Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Fall River, indicated, “Partnering with organizations such as Morton Hospital allows us to expand the opportunities for our students outside our own walls. We are so grateful to Morton Hospital’s leadership for their collaboration and willingness to open up the doors of the health care industry to our students.” Kathy St. Laurent, principal of Coyle and Cassidy and Bishop Connolly High Schools, added, “As a nurse myself, working in a hospital offers a wealth of professional and educational opportunities. Many of my students have gone on to very successful nursing careers because they had an opportunity to be mentored by wonder-
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ful people. We are thrilled that Morton Hospital will be able to mentor our students as well as give them a great foundation for whatever career they choose.” The Catholic Schools Alliance comprises administrators, teachers, staff, parents and clergy joined in partnership to educate the children of the Diocese of Fall River in Catholic faith and values. The schools have a demanding educational culture that helps students from across the academic spectrum reach their God-given potential. With an emphasis on service and respect for the dignity of every person, they prepare students to meet the challenges of today’s diverse world and
become meaningful contributors to society. For more information, visit www.catholicschoolsalliance.org. Morton Hospital is a 112-bed acute-care hos-
pital providing comprehensive inpatient, outpatient and 24/7 emergency services to Taunton and the communities of southeastern Massachusetts. The hospital’s strengths include emergency medicine, diabetes care, imaging services, orthopedics, rehabilitation services, surgery and wound healing. Morton Hospital is part of the Steward Health Care Systems, the largest integrated community care organization in New England which combines more than 3,000 physicians, 11 acute care hospitals, managed care, insurance programs, home care, an imaging operation, and a number of other post-acute services, to provide the most cost effective and highest quality of integrated patient care. Additional information is available at www. Mortonhospital.org.
Mass. Catholic Conference, bishops issue statement on climate change
“S
aint Francis, faithful to Scripture, invites us to see nature as a magnificent book in which God speaks to us and grants us a glimpse of His infinite beauty and goodness.” In June 2015, Pope Francis made this observation in his powerful encyclical, “Laudato Si’ - On Care for Our Common Home.” In our home state of Massachusetts, we are blessed with inspiring natural beauty from the seashore on the east coast to the majestic mountain vistas in the west — with rolling hills, vibrant communities and rich farmlands throughout the state. We, the four Roman Catholic Bishops of Massachusetts, call on all Catholics and others of faith in Massachusetts to reflect on this natural beauty — this gift from God. To protect and sustain this gift we must act now within our faith institutions and throughout the state to take substantial, meaningful steps to protect our environment and provide relief from the impact of toxic pollution and climate change to protect the health and safety of all citizens, particularly the most vulnerable in our society. Pope Francis “calls for dialogue throughout the world” on how we can be better stewards of the earth and, in so doing, be more responsive to the plight of the poor around the world. His call for an “integral ecology” to be lived out joyfully respects the dignity of each person, identifies a moral obligation to protect the environment, and promotes social justice by supporting responsible economic development with respect for all people and the earth. Pope Francis stated: “A very solid scientific consensus indicates that we are presently witnessing a disturbing warming of the climatic system. In recent decades this warming has been accompanied by a constant rise in the sea level and, it would appear, by an increase of extreme weather events, even if a scientifically determinable cause cannot be assigned to each particular phenomenon. Humanity is called to recognize the need for changes of lifestyle, production and consumption, in order to combat this warming or at least the human causes which produce or aggravate it.” For decades reports from highly respected scientific studies also clearly set forth the dangers of climate change in the United States and around the globe. More recently, those studies detail the urgency of this crisis. @ In October 2018, The United Nations Intergovernmental Panel of Climate Change (IPCC) reported we may have as little as 12 years to act on climate change — to slash global emissions 45 percent — to reach limiting global warming to 1.5º C. This would require rapid, far-reaching and unprecedented changes in all aspects of society with clear benefits to people and natural ecosystems ensuring a more sustainable and equitable society. @ In November 2018, The National Oceanic and Atmosphere Administration (NOAA) found the effects of climate change, including deadly wildfires, increasingly debilitating hurricanes and heat waves, are already battering the United States, and the danger of more such catastrophes is worsening. If not mitigated now, in a worst-case climate-change scenario, the document finds financial impacts more than $400 billion annually to U.S. economy. According to the NOAA, July 2019 was the hottest month ever recorded worldwide. The five hottest Julys have occurred in the last five years. @ Last month, the United Nations sounded the alarm about food supplies. World food security is increasingly at risk due to “unprecedented” climate change impact. Today 500 million people live in areas that experience desertification. People living in already degraded or desertified areas are increasingly negatively affected by climate change. With this immense threat, we may feel inclined to despair, but we are people of faith. Catholic social teaching is built on the principle of subsidiarity, “which grants freedom to develop the capabilities present at every level of society, while also demanding a greater sense of responsibility for the common good from those who wield greater power.” We are called to act with hope and to respond to this challenge with urgency in all facets of our life: as individuals making an ecological conversion in our personal lives; as members of our parishes, schools and businesses striving for structural changes that reduce environmental impact; and as citizens participating in political discussions and fulfilling our civic responsibilities. We are asking everyone to examine their personal vocations and opportunities to take action to take better care of our common home. Change is hard and at the outset can seem intimidating. Every person’s actions will depend on their life circumstance and their commitment to protect our natural resources. We must each find tangible and substantive actions that are within our grasp. Families should discuss their concerns about the environment and how their lifestyle and consumption is contributing to the climate changes and other environmental degradation. Parishes should integrate Catholic social teaching on the environment in their Liturgy and in their Religious Education program. Action is needed at all levels of government to encourage replacement of fossil fuels with renewable sources of energy while ensuring that the most vulnerable in society are protected from harm during this transition. We also wish to echo the view of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops who adopted an explicit priority to teach and advocate about integral ecology, emphasizing environmental degradation and its impact on the lives of the most vulnerable. As a Catholic community we must commit to this effort while Christians around the world celebrate the Season of Creation (September 1st- October 4th). We, the Catholic Bishops of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, pledge our support to addressing this global crisis. “Start by doing what’s necessary; then do what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.” — Saint Francis of Assisi
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Editorial Planning for holiness Last Saturday (September 14) Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., celebrated Mass at the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption in Fall River with scores of laity who had been involved in the strategic planning process that had engaged hundreds of people from across the diocese over the past few years. In his homily the bishop cited the old saying, “God helps those who help themselves” and thanked the laity for working hard to collaborate with God in the rebuilding of the diocese in faith and hope. As the day’s Mass was for the feast of the Triumph of the Cross, Bishop da Cunha urged everyone to follow Christ in bearing their crosses, to live the truly “Christian way,” by “imitate[ing] the mindset of Christ in self-emptying service of one another.” Before the homily members of three of the strategic planning commissions presented their plans to the bishop. As a preface, Laura Carrillo, director of Strategic and Pastoral Planning, addressed the bishop. She began by quoting Pope Francis’ address in Philadelphia on Sept. 26, 2015, where he said, “We know that the future of the Church in a rapidly changing society will call, and even now calls, for a much more active engagement on the part of the laity.” She then noted that Bishop da Cunha was in his first year as bishop of Fall River at the time of the pope’s visit and now his laity was “presenting to you a strategic plan for our local Church.” “The engagement of the people in our pews throughout this strategic planning process has brought forth more than a plan. It has brought a renewed hope in our future as a people of faith throughout this diocese,” Carrillo said. On Saturday the Diocesan Governance, Catholic Social Services and Youth commissions presented their plans to the bishop at the Mass. Future editions of The Anchor will have more information about their proposals. Bishop da Cunha thanked the members of the commissions for all of their work. He also did note that it would take millions of dollars and scores more employees and volunteers to carry out every proposal. As such, he told the newlycomposed Diocesan Pastoral Council, whom he blessed at the Mass, that they will be working on prioritizing the proposals from the commissions, to see which ones will be implemented first and which ones are more longer-range goals. Strategic planning is not just an “American” thing. Pope Francis, in his 2018 apostolic constitution Veritatis Gaudium (the joy of truth), wrote at #61, “Great care must be given to what is called strategic planning, so as to provide for the preservation and progress of [Catholic] Universities and Faculties, as well as their suitable distribution in the various parts of the world.” Pope Benedict XVI, in his message for the 2010 World Day of Peace, wrote, “It should be evident that the ecological crisis cannot be viewed in isolation from other related questions, since it is closely linked to the notion of development itself and our understanding of man in his relationship to others and to the rest of Creation. Prudence would thus dictate a profound, long-term review of our model of development. The ecological health of the planet calls for this, but it is also OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF FALL RIVER Vol. 63, No. 19
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Published biweekly by the Catholic Press of the Diocese of Fall River, 887 Highland Avenue, Fall River, Mass. 02720, Tel. 508-675-7151; FAX 508-675-7048; email: office@anchornews.org. Subscription price by mail, prepaid $25.00 per year for U.S. addresses. Please send address changes to 887 Highland Avenue, Fall River, Mass., call or use email address.
PUBLISHER
– Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D. EXECUTIVE EDITOR
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demanded by the cultural and moral crisis of humanity whose symptoms have for some time been evident in every part of the world. Our present crises — be they economic, food-related, environmental or social — are ultimately also moral crises, and all of them are interrelated. They require us to rethink the path which we are travelling together. Specifically, they call for a lifestyle marked by sobriety and solidarity, with new rules and forms of engagement, one which focuses confidently and courageously on strategies that actually work, while decisively rejecting those that have failed. Only in this way can the current crisis become an opportunity for discernment and new strategic planning.” St. John Paul II, in his apostolic letter Novo Millennio Ineunte (at the beginning of the new millennium), called for pastoral planning in this new time in which we live. At #31 he wrote, “At first glance, it might seem almost impractical to recall this elementary truth [that of the need to grow in holiness] as the foundation of the pastoral planning in which we are involved at the start of the new millennium. Can holiness ever be ‘planned’? What might the word ‘holiness’ mean in the context of a pastoral plan? In fact, to place pastoral planning under the heading of holiness is a choice filled with consequences. It implies the conviction that, since Baptism is a true entry into the holiness of God through incorporation into Christ and the indwelling of His Spirit, it would be a contradiction to settle for a life of mediocrity, marked by a minimalist ethic and a shallow religiosity. To ask catechumens: ‘Do you wish to receive Baptism?’ means at the same time to ask them: ‘Do you wish to become holy?’ It means to set before them the radical nature of the Sermon on the Mount: ‘Be perfect as your Heavenly Father is perfect’ (Mt 5:48). The Polish saint continued, “As the [Second Vatican] Council itself explained, this ideal of perfection must not be misunderstood as if it involved some kind of extraordinary existence, possible only for a few ‘uncommon heroes’ of holiness. The ways of holiness are many, according to the vocation of each individual. The time has come to re-propose wholeheartedly to everyone this high standard of ordinary Christian living: the whole life of the Christian community and of Christian families must lead in this direction. It is also clear however that the paths to holiness are personal and call for a genuine ‘training in holiness,’ adapted to people’s needs. This training must integrate the resources offered to everyone with both the traditional forms of individual and group assistance, as well as the more recent forms of support offered in associations and movements recognized by the Church.” The work of the commissions, together with that of the bishop’s ministry, is aimed at how we can more effectively convey the message of Christ by living out that message. Christ is the Word that God the Father speaks to us. Holiness is our living out that message, by becoming more like God, in Whose image we were created. May we always allow the Holy Spirit to guide us individually and collectively to plan according to God’s plan of love and holiness for us.
Daily Readings † September 21 - October 4 Sat. Sept. 21, Eph 4:1-7, 11-13; Ps 19:2-5; Mt 9:9-13. Sun. Sept. 22, Am 8:4-7; Ps 113:1-2, 4-8; 1 Tm 2:1-8; Lk 16:1-13 or 16:10-13. Mon. Sept. 23, Ezr 1:1-6; Ps 126:1b-6; Lk 8:16-18. Tue. Sept. 24, Ezr 6:7-8, 12b, 14-20; Ps 122:15; Lk 8:19-21. Wed. Sept. 25, Ezr 9:5-9; (Ps) Tb 13:2-4, 7-8; Lk 9:1-6. Thu. Sept. 26, Hg 1:1-8; Ps 149:1b-6a; Lk 9:7-9. Fri. Sept. 27, Hg 2:1-9; Ps 43:1-4; Lk 9:18-22. Sat. Sept. 28, Zec 2:5-9, 14-15a; (Ps) Jer 31:10-13; Lk 9:43b-45. Sun. Sept. 29, Am 6:1a, 4-7; Ps 146:7-10; 1 Tm 6:11-16; Lk 16:19-31. Mon. Sept. 30, Zec 8:1-8; Ps 102:16-23, 29; Lk 9:46-50. Tue. Oct. 1, Zec 8:20-23; Ps 87:1b-7; Lk 9:51-56. Wed. Oct. 2, Neh 2:1-8; Ps 137:1-6; Mt 18:1-5, 10. Thu. Oct. 3, Neh 8:1-4a, 5-6, 7b-12; Ps 19:8-11; Lk 10:1-12. Fri. Oct. 4, Bar 1:15-22; Ps 79:1b-5, 8-9; Lk 10:13-16.
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y this time next week summer will have officially signed off for the year and autumn will have begun its threemonth reign. It’s no secret in the Jolivet household that I am an autumn/winter guy, and I look forward to the changes in store for us in the coming months. Thinking about crisp mornings, warm afternoons, apples, pumpkins, cooking out on the deck without feeling hotter than the wings on the grill, sweaters and sweatshirts, football, football, and football, all put a smile on my face. Oh, and did I mention football? But this past summer was enjoyable and I will miss some of what the season had to offer, aside from the days when you could cut the air with a knife it being so thick with humidity; escaping from a fire at a hotel; a monthly electric bill that just about doubled; and unfortunately, a Red Sox season that was as bad as it was good last year.
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Not only news can be fake And now that the season has run its course, I’ll share an anecdote that pretty much was the capper of this summer. First I have to set the scene for you. We live in the middle unit of a three-unit townhouse. To my east is a retired military man who has been my friend since the day we moved in 17 years ago. We were both wearing a Patriots shirt the day we met, and from then on, we were brothers. To my west is a delightful woman, who happens to be very active in the Portuguese Charismatic movement in our diocese. I couldn’t ask for better neighbors, and they say the same about us. My neighbor to the east has become notorious in our three-unit world for hanging summer plants outside his deck with the notion that they will take care of themselves. One year it was so bad I told him that I felt like I was living
next door to the Addams Family. Well, our neighbor to the west eventually took control of the flora for “Gomez Addams.” She watered and nurtured the plants each day after she cared for her own. And by the way, her deck is like a rain forest, lush and green and beautiful.
Well two of Gomez’s hanging plants lost their battle and had to be tossed. The next day I found them replaced by two colorful, vibrant hanging plants filled with flowers and greenery. I know from whence they came. I told Gomez that I would water his showpieces each morning when I watered mine, just before the sun came up. He thanked me for that. Each morning before I headed out to work at about 6:20 a.m., I juiced up all of our plants. I even, on occasion, gave them a dose of plant food. I must say I was quite impressed that Gomez’s flowers maintained a healthy vibrancy, even more so than mine, despite a month of July that was a scorcher. One weekend morning, about three weeks later, I slept in so when I went out to water the townhouse vegetation, the sun was already poking its rays onto the deck. I gave my plants a healthy dose
of H20 to battle the eight hours of direct sunlight that was to come. I headed over to Gomez’s deck and raised my watering can to douse the still glorious arrays and something didn’t seem quite right. The sun was shining directly on the flowers and I detected an almost fabric-like consistency to them. I lowered the watering can and rubbed one of the flowers between my fingers. Fake! I did the same for all of the flowers. Fake, fake, fake, fake! For three weeks, every day, I was watering artificial flowers. I quickly looked around to see if other neighbors were watching me — thankfully none were. I sheepishly picked up my watering can and headed back to my deck. As I headed into the house I couldn’t help but laugh at what I just witnessed. Despite having been married for 40 years, Denise thought it was odd that I should walk into the house in a fit of laughter — odd even for me. I shared my woeful story and she joined me in my laughter. I think this is why she stays with me. She never knows what to expect. Now, I can’t blame
Gomez, because he truly didn’t know his beautiful flowers were counterfeit, but that didn’t stop him from losing his composure and doubling over with laughter when I told him — and I might add, he was quick to share the story with others. My biggest fear was telling my neighbor to the west, the supplier of the fake flowers. You see, the summer before, among her rainforest of flora, she had one fake plant, which I watered when she went away on vacation. She got the biggest kick out of that last year. And her son never let me forget about it. God only knows how she would react to this. It was pretty much as I had expected. She laughed and laughed as I pleaded for her not to relay this one to her son. “I can’t do that,” she gleefully said. That, too, I expected. As I said earlier, I could not ask for better neighbors. And I also said earlier, they feel the same about us, but I’m beginning to sense they like having me around for the entertainment factor. Well, it’s a whole new season. Let’s see what buffoonery I have up my sleeves, from the east to the west. jolivetdb@comcast.net
Anchor ‘Around the Diocese’ Policy
While The Anchor’s “Around the Diocese” listing of parish and diocesan events is a courtesy service, the diocesan newspaper does rely on advertising revenue to sustain its printing and postage costs throughout the year. As such, fund-raising events like parish festivals, holiday fairs and bazaars will be restricted from inclusion. We would greatly appreciate your consideration of a paid advertisement to promote these events.
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I
n July 2014, police found the body of 18-year-old Conrad Roy inside his truck in Fairhaven, having died from carbon monoxide poisoning. As the case unfolded, it became apparent that a friend of his, 17-yearold Michelle Carter, had encouraged him toward suicide. In a series of texts, she repeatedly pressured him to go through with it by sending messages such as: “You keep pushing it off and say you’ll do it but u never do. It’s always gonna be that way if u don’t take action.” As he sat in a remote spot in the Kmart parking lot, the truck’s cab filling up with fumes, he got cold feet and stepped out of his makeshift death chamber, seemingly conflicted about what he was doing. He then spoke with Michelle by phone, who coaxed him to continue the suicide. The call was not recorded, but months after his death, she texted another friend and recounted how Conrad had grown scared at the last moment, climbing out of the truck, and that she had told him to get back in. She then listened over the phone as he succumbed to the fumes 47 minutes later. Following a high profile trial that received extensive media coverage, Michelle was convicted of involuntary manslaughter and sentenced to two-anda-half years behind bars, of which she has to serve a minimum of 15 months. Prosecutors claimed that her motive may have been to gain attention and sympathy as the “grieving girlfriend.” 8
Contradictory suicide messaging
The case drew intense national and international attention, partly because it involved a relationship that had played out mostly through texts and Facebook messages. Even though Michelle and Conrad lived less than an hour apart, they rarely met in person. As Michelle was led away from the trial in handcuffs, the court of public opinion was virtually unanimous in condemning her actions as reprehensible. Her actions and the trial proceedings, however, also opened up broader questions about provocation toward suicide in a society like ours that increasingly devalues human life. In fact, the public reaction to Michelle’s behavior reveals a striking irony at the heart of Conrad’s suicide. The irony involves the moral outrage that surfaced regarding Michelle’s text messages. Similar indignation about encouraging someone to commit suicide is, paradoxically, almost entirely absent when it comes to “physician-assisted” suicide. Michelle’s text messages embraced the same key ideas that lawmakers in nine states have now enacted through legislation — namely, that it’s sometimes allowable to encourage and participate in suicide. Most legislation, however, only permits those in the medical field, those dressed in white lab coats, as it were, to be involved. This requirement seems quite arbitrary, of course, if the real goal is to alleviate
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suffering by eliminating the sufferer. After all, Michelle was convinced she was acting compassionately by assisting Conrad to escape from what she claimed was his misery,
depression and intense emotional and psychological suffering. Who is to say that Michelle was wrong if the white lab coats are right? If it were deplorable for Michelle Carter to facilitate Conrad Roy’s suicide, how can it be good for physicians and other health care workers to facilitate the suicides of their ailing patients who are at least as fragile and vulnerable as Conrad was? This remarkable moral schizophrenia may soon be
enshrined in a new piece of legislation that claims to outlaw participation in a person’s suicide. Massachusetts state lawmakers and Conrad’s family gathered in July 2019 at the Statehouse to introduce Conrad’s Law, a bill making it a crime to encourage or assist a person in taking his or her life. On the face of it, the law obviously seems like a sensible piece of legislation, but even as lawmakers were trying to stop people from assisting at suicides like Conrad Roy’s, they were simultaneously seeking to protect medical personnel who might assist at the suicides of their patients. The double standard was impossible to miss, with Conrad’s Law including an explicit subsection exempting those involved in physician-assisted suicide from prosecution.
Even though physicianassisted suicide is not yet legal in the Massachusetts Commonwealth, another bill promoting it is under active consideration by the legislature. Society really can’t have it both ways, glamorizing the act of suicide in some cases and demonizing it in others. By yielding to the proposition that suicide is not an evil to be repudiated, but a form of “relief ” to be conferred on those who suffer, we effectively abandon our neighbors, the Conrads and countless others, in their moment of greatest need. Father Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D. earned his doctorate in neuroscience from Yale and did postdoctoral work at Harvard. He is a priest of the Diocese of Fall River and serves as the Director of Education at The National Catholic Bioethics Center in Philadelphia. See www.ncbcenter.org.
Diocesan Academy announces partnership with Bridgewater State University FALL RIVER — Earlier this year, the Diocese of Fall River announced the establishment of an Academy as a strategic platform for developing partnerships with higher education institutions as well as corporations and other organizations. The Academy is pleased to announce a partnership with Bridgewater State University effective immediately in order to impact this current academic school year. The partnership with Bridgewater State University’s Center for the
Advancement of STEM Education (CASE) will allow our Catholic school students exposure to the many programs offered through the BSU Observatory, CityLab and Watershed Access laboratories, as well as Geography and Earth Science activities and Project Earthview. Bridgewater State’s Center for the Advancement of STEM Education will also provide professional development opportunities for Catholic school teachers and administrators. “As the director of CASE, I am
excited to partner with the Diocese of Fall River’s Academy in order to expand the reach of these exciting programs,” said Jennie Aizenman, Ph.D. “There are so many interesting programs to offer students — including watershed, biotechnology, climate science, geography and astronomy. We are excited about opportunities to offer professional development to teachers so they can provide state-of-the-art curriculum in STEM-related subjects.” Steve Perla, Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Fall River, added, “Partnerships with higher education organizations such as Bridgewater State University are why we created The Academy. These partnerships provide to our students so many practical learning experiences and opportunities that they would not
otherwise have in a traditional program. Our overall goal is to give each of our school students an academically rigorous experience that successfully prepares them for college and for a career, within an intentionally Christ-centered atmosphere.” Ellen Russell, director of STEM Education for The Academy, said: “As a professional in STEM-related fields, I could not be happier to partner with Bridgewater State University. One immediate project involves students participating in the Citizen Scientists! Program which is a weather and climate data collecting project that has national implications. We are thrilled that Bridgewater State will be able to give these students a great foundation should they choose a STEM career.”
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Final planning commission reports presented to bishop during Mass
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he planning process underway in the Fall River Diocese reached a milestone on Saturday, September 14, as Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., offered a Mass to celebrate the work of nearly 400 volunteers who have been serving on various planning commissions. Since February, these volunteers from across the diocese have worked together conducting research and developing recommendations designed to strengthen the diocese as part of the “Rebuilding in Faith and Hope” initiative. During the Mass, representatives from the Governance, Youth and Young Adult, and Catholic Social Services Commissions presented their plans to Bishop da Cunha for a formal blessing. Next steps in the process include prioritization and implementation of the recommendations with the newly-formed Diocesan Pastoral Council. Commission representatives presenting their respective plans were Allison Gingras for Governance, Deborah Cabral for Youth and Young Adult, and Stacia Plumb for Catholic Social Services. The full planning document can be viewed on the Diocese of Fall River website at www.fallriverdiocese.org. Full story to follow in the next edition of The Anchor. Above: Bishop da Cunha blesses the plans presented to him during the September 14 Diocesan Planning Commissions Celebration Mass. (Photo courtesy of Deacon Alan Thadeu) On the cover: Deborah Cabral presents the plans of the Youth and Young Adult Commission to Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., during the September 14 Diocesan Planning Commissions Celebration Mass. (Photo courtesy of Victor Nobrega) 10
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Local DCCW president Beth Mahoney to serve on National Council of Catholic Women board continued from page two vide or receive recommendations from others whose councils have had success in various projects and activities. We also coordinate national projects that will trickle down to the local levels.” One of the the most pressing and crucial projects the NCCW has embraced is the plight of human trafficking. “We are providing all councils with vital information and ways to help detect and combat this awful occurrence in our country and across the world,” said Mahoney. “We are providing councils with prayers and posters and anything we can to help get the word out about how prevalent human trafficking is. “Another great concern of ours is to reach out to combat the rising number of suicides in this country and reach out to those suffering from the loss of a loved one to suicide.” Other NCCW pet projects are increasing awareness among
younger Catholic women about vocations within the Church; the Hospice program; and Spirituality. Mahoney said the NCCW also teams up with other service and social justice organizations. “We are collaborating with Bread for the
responding to events and crises affecting not only Catholic women, but all women, children and men across the country and the world — truly living up to its mission to respond with Gospel values to the needs of the Church and society. The NCCW was
being of the country; and 3. To stimulate the work of existing service and usefulness in meeting the needs of our times.” While the NCCW continues to thrive, Mahoney admits that the numbers in the Northeast have dwindled over
World, Catholic Climate Network, the National Catholic Educational Association, and the Center for Concern’s Education for Justice.” Others include Catholic Relief Services, Cross Catholic Outreach, Center for Missing and Exploited Children, Religious Alliance Against Pornography, Catholic Mobilizing Network and the U.S. Catholic Sisters Against Human Trafficking. It is evident the NCCW is involved with
founded on March 4, 1920 by the United States bishops. Its purpose was “1. To give the Catholic women of the country a common voice and an instrument for unified action in all matters affecting Catholic or national welfare; 2. To ensure proper Catholic representation on, and the proper recognition of Catholic principles in national committees and national movements affecting the religious, moral and material well-
the years. “The midwest and south councils are very strong and have good numbers,” she told The Anchor. “We are hoping to revive the Northeast with new members and young members. One way we can do this is to introduce ourselves to young women in high schools and young adult ministries. We hope to meet with the bishops of our region to come up with a plan to reach out to these young women.
I’ve already spoken to Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha about it and he is very interested.” The NCCW has always worked with the bishops of the United States. “We meet with them and then dovetail to make sure the word is getting out about and to help women understand more fully Church documents, and to become proactive to helping to solve some of society’s most difficult problems. “I’m excited and looking forward to the next two years,” said Mahoney. “I’m excited to see the Northeast grow stronger and to work with women across the country and the U.S. bishops about local and national concerns.” For more information about the National Council of Catholic Women, visit www.nccw. org. For more information about the Diocese of Fall River Council of Catholic Women call Beth Mahoney at 508-821-6201.
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Museum of Family Prayer † Holy Cross Family M inistries Holy Cross Family Ministries’ new “Museum of Family Prayer,” 518 Washington Street in North Easton, was officially opened and dedicated on Sunday, September 15 with a special blessing and Mass celebrated by Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V. Tours were held throughout the day. For more information about Father Patrick Peyton, C.S.C., the famed “Rosary priest,” or his new museum, visit www.hcfm.org. The museum is open Wednesdays through Sundays from 10 a.m to 4 p.m., and admission is always free. (Photos by Alphonse Riang, HCFM)
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Diocese of Fall River TV Mass on WLNE Channel 6 Sunday, September 22 at 11:00 a.m.
Celebrant is Father Daniel M. Nunes, parochial vicar of Holy Name Parish in Fall River
Sunday, September 29 at 11:00 a.m. Celebrant is Father Paul E. Canuel, a retired priest of the Fall River Diocese living at Cardinal Medeiros Residence in Fall River
Diocese of Fall River TV Mass
on the Portuguese Channel Sunday, September 22 at 7 p.m. Broadcast from Santo Christo Church in Fall River
Diocese of Fall River TV Mass on the Portuguese Channel Sunday, September 29 at 7 p.m. Broadcast from St. Francis Xavier Church in East Providence, R.I.
Adult Confirmation classes offered this fall FALL RIVER — The Faith Formation Office will offer Essential Catholicism: A Preparation Course for Adult Confirmation in two separate locations this fall, beginning in October. Essential Catholicism is a six-session course. In North Dartmouth, it will be held on consecutive Wednesday evenings, from October 2 through November 6, at Bishop Stang High School, 500 Slocum Road. (Use the Chapel Entrance.) In Easton, the course will be offered on consecu-
tive Thursday evenings, from October 3 through November 7, at the Holy Cross Parish Center, 225 Purchase Street. Classes in both locations will be from 7 to 9 p.m. Both sessions will conclude with a mandatory retreat for adult Confirmation candidates on Saturday, November 16, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at a location to be announced. There is a $45 class registration fee for class materials and lunch on the retreat day.
Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., will celebrate Adult Confirmation at 7 p.m. on Thursday, December 5, at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Fall River, for any adult candidate who is at least 18 years of age and has completed the preparatory instruction. To register for either class or obtain further information, please contact your parish office. You may also visit the Diocesan Office of Faith Formation website at www.fallriverfaithformation.org
Annual Red Mass to honor members of the justice system FALL RIVER — Five people serving within the area justice system will be given the St. Thomas More Award in recognition of their dedicated service at the annual Red Mass to be celebrated at 4 p.m., Saturday, September 28, in St. Mary’s Cathedral in Fall River. Selected to receive the award are, as distinguished jurist, Judge John M. Julian, Presiding Justice, Barnstable District Court; as distinguished attorney, Marita Durkin Gray, of the Law Office of Marita Durkin Gray, Fall River; as distinguished court employee, Nelia Silva, Probation Officer, Fall River District Court; as distinguished recipient of the ecumenical award, Attorney George Keches, of Keches Law Group, Taunton; and as distinguished recipient of the Joseph P. Har-
rington Founder’s Award, Attorney Paul Mathieu, of Mathieu and Mathieu Law Office, New Bedford. The Red Mass is celebrated each year in the Fall River Diocese to invoke God’s guidance and strength on those who work to promote justice in the legal system. The Mass is a long-standing tradition in the Church and is widely celebrated in dioceses throughout the United States. Award recipients were nominated for the recognition by the Red Mass planning committee, headed by New Bedford attorney Michael J. Harrington. Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., will be principal celebrant and homilist at the Mass. Judges, attorneys and others working in the justice system throughout Southeastern Massachu-
setts, Cape Cod and the Islands are invited to attend. The Red Mass is so named because of the color of the vestments worn during the Liturgy, which is the Mass of the Holy Spirit, who will be invoked upon those in attendance. The presentation of the St. Thomas More Awards at the conclusion of the Red Mass is a tradition unique to the Fall River Diocese. The award is named for St. Thomas More, a 16th -century English layman and lawyer martyred for opposition to the divorce of King Henry VIII and for refusing to renounce papal authority. All are welcome at the Red Mass. A reception and dinner will follow for which a ticket is required. For information, please contact Attorney Harrington at 508-994-5900.
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W
Jean Vanier: A prophet for our time
hen I was first asked to write this column, I must admit that I struggled with the proper subject. It was the recent death of a saintly, prophetic figure that clarified the matter for me. Jean Vanier, friend and inspiration to popes, Templeton Prize winner and considered by many as the “European Mother Teresa,” passed away on May 7, 2019. Vanier was the founder of l’Arche, communities for people with intellectual and physical disabilities, which started in France in 1964 and grew to more than 150 communities in 37 different countries. L’Arche was founded by Vanier when he responded to a simple call from Jesus to invite two men with disabilities, Rapfael and Phillipe, to live in community with him rather than the psychiatric institution where they had been left. Vanier then committed his life to recognizing that persons with disabilities not only have an inherent dignity value as God’s children, but are truly gifts from whom the “strong” can learn how to be truly human. Vanier taught that if we enter into relationship with the “core members” around whom l’Arche communities center, we will learn that we too are broken, and ultimately, that we are made for love. So why did Jean Vanier’s death focus my thoughts in a particular way? After graduating from college in 1993, I spent more than two years volunteering in a l’Arche community in Kilkenny, Ireland. In addi14
tion to reading his books, I had the tremendous blessing to meet, listen to, and speak with Jean Vanier on multiple occasions. I can honestly say that I felt that I was in the presence of a living prophet, saint or both! His close relationship with Jesus was evident. So too were his deep friendships with the people whom he served. Despite having a Ph.D in philosophy, his faith was not an abstract, intellectual endeavor. His holiness was grounded in the Spirit-led reality of everyday life. He was deeply humble and confident at the same time. When he spoke you listened intently and he looked at all of life as a gift. Vanier taught that rather than searching for grand solutions to the issues that face people with disabilities, l’Arche communities should instead be signs of hope that there is a different way of life. Developing friendships with people on the margins, and thereby learning about what it means to be truly human, helps to save us from the utilitarian ethos which permeates the prevailing consumeristic culture in which we live. People who are often marginalized have much to teach those of us who think we are “normal” about what life is really about. Vanier reminded us that Jesus’ Kingdom is about moving those who are rejected and thrown away to the center, and l’Arche communities are places which seek to make that Kingdom a reality.
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When I lived in l’Arche Kilkenny, I was a 22-yearold college graduate who didn’t quite realize how little I actually knew! Living for more than two years with people with disabilities and young assistants like myself was an incredibly intense and
challenging experience. Our role as assistants was to create a real home and community for the core members. The focus was on their health and wellbeing, and at 22, I was not exactly well-practiced at the sacrifices that this lifestyle demanded. Needless to say, I failed many times, but learned an immense
amount about my own limitations and gifts as a person. The core members who welcomed me into their home, Packy, Richard, Gina, John and Roisin, were all very different personalities. I learned that each person had their own brokenness and gifts, just like me. It was no utopia, but they taught me the art of welcome. Perhaps more than anything else, l’Arche communities are about the spirit of hospitality. One of the lessons I learned was not only how to cook, but how to truly welcome and serve others. In my role as a Catholic educator, I try to integrate a spirit of welcome and hospitality to my role. Catholic schools can be a powerful witness, just as l’Arche communities are, to
building a culture of dignity and welcome to those on the margins. I encourage you to learn more about Jean Vanier by watching videos of him online or by purchasing one of his many books on Amazon. “Becoming Human” or “The Broken Body” are classic Vanier and very easy to read. I have no question that our Church and world need more of Vanier’s example of compassion, hospitality and respect for dignity, and that it is up to us to keep his legacy alive! Peter Shaughnessy is president/principal of Bishop Stang High School in North Dartmouth. He resides in Fairhaven with his wife, Anabela Vasconcelos Shaughnessy (Class of ’94), and their four children: Luke (Class of ’24), Emilia (Class of ’25), Dominic (Class of ’27) and Clare (Class of ‘30).
The Anchor is always pleased to run news and photos about diocesan youth. If schools, parish Religious Education programs or homeschoolers have newsworthy stories and photos they would like to share with our readers, please email them to: schools@ anchornews.org
F ocus
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C hurch Y outh Students of St. Francis Xavier School in Acushnet, left, stood united on the anniversary of September 11 as they participated in a very special Memorial Mass, remembering all those affected by the tragic events of 18 years ago. During Mass, members of the school family prayed together and honored Chief Gallagher of the Acushnet Fire Department, along with other first responders from the community, marking a Patriot Day they will not soon forget. (Photo courtesy of Father Riley Williams)
St. John Paul II High School in Hyannis has named James “Gus” Adams, above, as its new Head Girls Basketball Coach. Adams previously served as Head Girls Basketball Coach at Falmouth Academy, Co-Director of Falmouth Travel Basketball, and coach of Bay State Magic Girls AAU Basketball. He is a parishioner of St. Anthony’s Students in Mrs. Costa’s math class at St. James-St. John School in New Bedford, above, Church in East Falmouth, where he is also a Confirmation recently had an activity on team-building lesson focusing on Collaboration Perseverance teacher, extraordinary minister of Holy Communion, Communication and problem-solving. (Photo courtesy of Cristina Viveiros-Serra) and lector. (Photo courtesy of Elizabeth McDonough) September 20, 2019 †
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The language of love and service
D
uring a recent Catholic conference, I saw a Scripture quote on a poster that read: “Always be prepared to make a defense to anyone who calls you to account for the hope that is in you, yet do it with gentleness and reverence” (1 Pet 3:15-16). A series of talks by Catholic theologians and public figures drove home for me just how applicable these words are today. From the recent scandals in the Church to the continued legal threats to religious liberty, traditional Marriage and family and the dignity of human life, the times in which we are living seem catastrophic for Christians. Is there any hope for the future of the Church in western societies like ours? What are we ordinary Catholics to do? As I pondered these questions, the words of St. Peter provided me with two take-aways. First, we should not be afraid to speak up for Christ and the Gospel in the public square. And second, we will be able to make a difference only if we do so with kindness and humility. St. Peter advised the early Christians to always be prepared, which presupposes we have done our homework. A Dominican speaker at the conference emphasized the need for serious study because standing up for our Catholic faith today requires intelligent answers. But he added that effective evangelization is not purely a matter of intellectual effort; it involves knowing and authentically living our faith. Actions speak louder than words — and when we do speak, our personal witness of grace can touch hearts 16
more effectively than theological treatises. I think this is what St. Peter meant when he spoke about “the hope that is in you.” This hope is not something remote or academic — it is the living presence of Christ in our hearts. We all share in the pledge of an imperishable inheritance by virtue of our Baptism, but this liv-
ing hope is not bestowed on the Church as a corporate body. It is a promise given to each of us individually as a beloved son or daughter of God. “Christ in you — and in me — for each of us, our hope of glory!” (cf. Col 1:27). If we are tempted to become discouraged in the face of so many threats to our Catholic faith, perhaps it is because we have not yet taken full ownership of the hope that is in us. St. Jeanne Jugan, foundress of the Little Sisters of the Poor, took hold of this living hope and exercised it as confidence in Providence and sure faith in what awaited her in Heaven (cf. 1 Pet 1:3-4). Jeanne Jugan often reminded the young Little Sisters about the presence of Christ in the Tabernacle, in the poor and in their own hearts. She advised them to look to Jesus for strength in all their trials and difficulties. Faced with challenges she would say, “That seems impossible, but if God is with us it will be accomplished.” As strong as her faith and
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hope were, Jeanne Jugan was fully aware of the limited power of words to win over hearts and souls. She counseled the Little Sisters not to prolong chapel devotions, lest the residents become bored and walk away. She also advised the Sisters not to rush their begging rounds, impetuously blurting out their needs as if they were their due. Finally, she taught the Little Sisters to pray discreetly when out in public so that they would neither draw undue attention to themselves nor offend nonbelievers. In a word, St. Jeanne Jugan taught the Little Sisters to let their humble acts of charity do the talking in drawing others to Christ. The annals of our congregation are filled with stories of elderly individuals who were converted or led back to the practice of their Catholic faith through the quiet but heroic charity of generations of Little Sisters. Many of the speakers at the conference I attended talked about missionary discipleship. Even the most well-known and intellectually intense spoke about service and solidarity with the poor as essential means of evangelization in today’s polarized world. “Nothing is more exhilarating than bringing others to Christ,” George Weigel exclaimed with an enthusiasm that made me want to go out and announce the Good News — knowing that the only convincing way to do this today is through the language of closeness, generous love and humble service. Sister Constance Veit is director of communications for the Little Sisters of the Poor.
In Your Prayers Please pray for these priests and deacons during the coming weeks:
Sept. 20 Rev. Simon A. O’Rourke, U.S.N. Chaplain, 1918 Rev. Omer Valois, Retired Pastor, Sacred Heart, New Bedford, 1958 Sept. 21 Rev. George Pager, Founder, Sacred Heart, New Bedford, 1882 Rev. George Jowdy, Pastor, Our Lady of Purgatory, New Bedford, 1938 Rev. William H. Crane, S.M., Superior at National Shrine of Our Lady of Victories, Boston, 1988 Sept. 23 Rev. Antoine Charest, S.M., Former Assistant, St. Jean Baptiste, Fall River, 2001 Sept. 24 Rev. Joseph E.C. Bourque, Pastor, Blessed Sacrament, Fall River, 1955 Sept. 25 Rev. Robert J. Woodley, S.J. Missionary, Taunton, New Bedford, Fall River, 1857 Sept. 26 Rev. John J. Donahue, Assistant, St. William, Fall River, 1944 Rev. Flavius Gamache, S.M.M., Former Pastor, St. Peter, Dighton, 1996 Sept. 27 Rev. John W. Greene, S.J., former teacher at Bishop Connolly High School, Fall River, 1991 Sept. 29 Rev. J.A. Payan, Founder, St. Mathieu, Fall River, 1899 Sept. 30 Rev. John J. Griffin, Pastor, St. Paul, Taunton, 1963 Rev. George Taraska, OFM Conv., Parochial Vicar, Holy Rosary, Taunton, 1993 Oct. 1 Most. Rev. William O. Brady, S.T.D., Archbishop of St. Paul, 1961 Oct. 2 Rev. Joseph E. Sutula, Pastor, St. Casimir, New Bedford, 1961 Rev. Rene R. Levesque, Pastor, Blessed Sacrament, Fall River, 1999 Oct. 3 Rev. Msgr. Arthur G. Considine, Retired Pastor, St. Mary, South Dartmouth, 1991
Newly titled and re-branded Diocesan Directory 2020 in production, will begin shipping in October FALL RIVER — As the Fall River Diocese continues to make great strides towards fulfilling Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha’s “Rebuilding in Faith and Hope” initiative, there have been some wholesale changes in parishes and diocesan offices. That’s why this year’s all-new, fully-revised edition of the diocesan directory is going to be an important resource for the local Church. Published annually by The Anchor, the new publication has been re-branded and retitled Diocesan Directory 2020 to not only reflect the milestone year ahead, but also to suggest a
new, clearer vision for the Fall River Diocese. To that end, Bishop da Cunha’s “Rebuilding in Faith and Hope” logo has been added to the volume. Given all the changes this year, the publication date — which previously shipped in August — was also pushed back to October to provide ample time to collect and include the latest information and staffing changes in parishes, apostolates and schools throughout the diocese. “It’s certainly been a challenge this year,” said Anchor editor and directory coordinator Kenneth J. Souza. “We had to find
a way to present the information for the many parish collaboratives and groupings while maintaining their individual location and Mass times.” Souza said they decided to keep each church site and location on a single page and then brand them each with a logo for its umbrella collaborative. “Since each site has its own address and set of Mass times, we thought that would be the best approach,” Souza said. “So the four churches in the Catholic Community of Central Fall River, for example, will be presented on individual pages, even though many of the staff names and contact information will be identical.” As an aid in locating these parish groupings, the directory will also be adding an index of the various collaboratives for the first time. The new Diocesan Directory 2020 features a cover with a stylized photograph of an underwater scene looking up towards the shining sunlight above. “We wanted something that looked very different from past editions and that defined what’s happening in the Fall River Diocese,” Souza said. “There’s a certain sense of cleansing — the waters of Baptism, if you will — in having to rebuild our local Church. And we’re all looking towards the Light so that we can resurface anew.” The water motif is also appropriate given the Fall River moniker of the dio-
cese, and there are similar design elements incorporated throughout Diocesan Directory 2020. Slated to being shipping the first week of October, the newly-revised and fully updated directory has consistently been the go-to reference guide for all the parishes, offices and apostolates within the Fall River Diocese and this year it’s going to be invaluable to those working in and worshipping in the diocese. Souza said pre-orders for the new volume have been brisk, which is not surprising with all the new information contained within. “Even with the technological advancements of cell phones and computers, there’s still a comfort in having a quick desk reference like Diocesan Directory 2020 handy,” Souza said. “And websites and Google searches don’t always get you the right contact person for a particular office or location.” As in past years, the directory will include all of the latest parish data, including Mass times, staff listings, and contact information. It also provides listings of all diocesan priests, the various Religious Communities working in the diocese, along with a complete listing of active and retired deacons living in the diocese, whether they are assigned to a given parish or not. And in this computerand smartphone-savvy era, information such as indi-
vidual parish and collaborative websites along with staff email addresses for key diocesan administrative personnel have been woven into the directory’s contact listings. The directory also provides important contact information for diocesan offices, personnel, archives, priests’ residences, councils and apostolates ranging from The Anchor to Catholic Social Services and its many offices, campus ministry, Chancery, Faith Formation, insurance, legal, communications, Scouting, shelters, vocations and much more. As always, the support of dedicated advertisers is pivotal to the directory’s annual success and in offsetting the costs to print the full-color, glossy publication. As such, it also serves as a guide to loyal sponsors who support the diocese’s mission and, in turn, deserve your consideration. “We think everyone will be impressed with this new directory and we’re working hard to make it a great reference guide for the entire diocese,” Souza said. “I like to think of it as an owner’s manual for a new Fall River Diocese, rebuilt in faith and hope, to borrow Bishop da Cunha’s phrase.” To pre-order a copy of the all-new Diocesan Directory 2020, please send a check for $30 each (includes shipping) to The Anchor, 887 Highland Avenue, Fall River, Mass. 02720.
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Around the Diocese COURAGE is a support group for people who have same-sex attractions and who would like to live chastity. Their next meeting will be on Saturday, September 28 at 5 p.m. at Holy Family Rectory, 370 Middleboro Avenue in East Taunton. The Fall River Area Men’s First Friday Club will meet on October 4 at St. Joseph Church on North Main Street in Fall River. The celebration of Mass begins at 6 p.m. and is open to the public. The Mass celebrant will be Father Jay Mello, pastor of St. Jospeh and St. Michael parishes. Following the Mass, club members will gather in the church hall for a hot meal prepared by White’s of Westport. After the meal there will be a presentation by Jane Wilcox and Edwin Aldorando on “Seeking Solutions to the Church Crisis and Contemplative Prayer.” All members and guests are welcome to participate in the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament at 5 p.m. prior to the Mass. Confessions will be available at 5:30 p.m. New members are always welcome. For more information, call Norm Valiquette at 508-672-8174. St. John Neumann Parish in East Freetown will host a one-day Silent Retreat: Autumn Day of Silence with the Masters on Saturday, October 5 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the camp house and on church property. Come spend a cool, crisp day of autumn color with the teachings of St. Padré Pio. Bring a bag lunch; beverages will be provided. For more information, contact Karen Howard at klhoward@ aol.com. Our Lady of the Cape Parish in Brewster invites all to come and join them on Wednesday mornings from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., as they explore and discuss Catholic Social Teaching. The seven themes of Catholic Social Teaching include: the dignity of the human person; the call to family, community and participation; human rights and responsibilities; the option for the poor and vulnerable; the dignity of work and the rights of workers; solidarity; and care for God’s creation. The sessions will look at what Scripture tells us about these themes, examine Church teaching and share practical experience and application. Meeting dates are October 9, 16, 23, 30; November 13, 20; and December 4 and 11. If you cannot attend all, join for as many as you can! If you are interested in attending, or have questions, please contact Kathy at adultfaithformation2@gmail.com or call her at 508-385-3252, x 14. The 12th annual Walk for the Poor sponsored by the St. Vincent de Paul Society of Fall River district will be held at Bishop Connolly High School, 373 Elsbree Street in Fall River, on Saturday, September 28. The rain date will be October 6. All are invited to support and participate in this event to make it a grand success so that the poor and the needy of Fall River can benefit. For more information, please contact coordinator Victor Alves at vctr_alves@yahoo.com. An Autumn Taizé service to encounter Jesus as Teacher (Christ Pantokrator) will be held Sunday, October 20 at 7 p.m. at St. John Neumann Parish, 157 Middleboro Road in East Freetown. All are welcome! The third annual Celebrate the Beauty of Every Child campaign will be held during the months of September and October. This prayer and action campaign is designed to encourage families to pray for the less fortunate within our parishes and to obtain much-needed infant and toddler items for families. Participating parishes are invited to join in prayer, such as Rosaries, Novenas, and Eucharistic Adoration. Mass intentions may also be pledged. Items collected such as diapers, wet wipes, onesies, PJs and gift cards will be forwarded to food pantries and organizations within the parish community in support of needy families. Massachusetts Citizens for Life, the St. Vincent de Paul Society, the Diocese of Fall River Catholic Schools Alliance, the Pro-Life Apostolate, the Knights of Columbus, and Catholic Social Services have formed a collaborative to coordinate this campaign at the parish level. Please see your parish bulletin for additional details. This campaign is in keeping with Bishop da Cunha’s initiative of “Rebuilding in Faith and Hope.” If you would like to support this campaign, contact the Pro-Life Apostolate office at 508-675-1311 or email irina@plrachel.com.
To submit an event for consideration in The Anchor’s “Around the Diocese” listing, please send the information by email to kensouza@anchornews.org. 18
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Eucharistic Adoration in the Diocese Acushnet — Eucharistic Adoration takes place at St. Francis Xavier Parish on Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Evening prayer and Benediction is held Monday through Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. ASSONET — St. Bernard’s Parish will have Eucharistic Adoration every Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The Blessed Sacrament will be exposed on the altar at the conclusion of 9 a.m. Mass and the church will be open all day, concluding with evening prayer and Benediction at 6:30 p.m. ATTLEBORO — The National Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette holds 6:30 p.m. Mass followed by the Chaplet of Divine Mercy Adoration at 7:15 p.m. every Wednesday evening. ATTLEBORO — Eucharistic Adoration takes place at St. John the Evangelist Church, North Main Street, Mondays and Wednesdays from 5-6:30 p.m. Brewster — Eucharistic Adoration takes place at Our Lady of the Cape Church, 468 Stony Brook Road, on First Fridays from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. buzzards Bay — Eucharistic Adoration takes place at St. Margaret Church, 141 Main Street, every First Friday following the 8 a.m. Mass, ending at 5 p.m. DARTMOUTH — Eucharistic Adoration takes place at St. Mary’s Church, 783 Dartmouth Street, every First Monday of the month, following the 8 a.m. Mass, ending with evening prayers and Benediction at 5 p.m. East Freetown — Eucharistic Adoration takes place at St. John Neumann Church every Monday (excluding legal holidays) 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the Our Lady, Mother of All Nations Chapel. (The base of the bell tower). EAST TAUNTON — Eucharistic Adoration takes place in the chapel at Holy Family Parish Center, 438 Middleboro Avenue, Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. On First Fridays, Eucharistic Adoration takes place at Holy Family Church, 370 Middleboro Avenue, from 8:30 a.m. until 7:45 p.m. FAIRHAVEN — St. Mary’s Church, Main St., has Eucharistic Adoration every Wednesday from 8:30-11:30 a.m. in the Chapel of Reconciliation, with Benediction at 11:30 a.m. FALL RIVER — St. Anthony of Padua Church, on the corner of Bedford and Sixteenth streets, has Eucharistic Adoration accompanied by music and prayer every first Wednesday of the month from 6-7 p.m. FALL RIVER — St. Anthony of the Desert Church, 300 North Eastern Avenue, has Eucharistic Adoration Mondays and Tuesdays from 8:45 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Thursdays following the 8 a.m. Mass until Friday at 8 a.m. FALL RIVER — Holy Name Church, 709 Hanover Street, has Eucharistic Adoration Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the Our Lady of Grace Chapel. FALL RIVER — Good Shepherd Parish has Eucharistic Adoration every Friday following the 8 a.m. Mass and concluding with 3 p.m. Benediction in the Daily Mass Chapel. A bilingual holy hour takes place from 2 to 3 p.m. Park behind the church and enter the back door of the connector between the church and the rectory. FALL RIVER — St. Joseph’s Church has a Holy Hour every Tuesday from 6-7 p.m., with Benediction at 6:45 p.m. FALL RIVER — St. Michael’s Church has Eucharistic Adoration every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with Benediction at 5:30 p.m. Falmouth — St. Patrick’s Church has Eucharistic Adoration each First Friday following the 7 a.m. Mass, with Benediction at 4:30 p.m. HYANNIS — St. Francis Xavier Parish in Hyannis, 347 South Street, Hyannis, has Eucharistic Adoration from noon to 3 p.m., daily Monday through Friday. MANSFIELD — St. Mary’s Parish, 330 Pratt Street, has Eucharistic Adoration every First Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with Benediction at 5:30 p.m. MASHPEE — Christ the King Parish, Route 151 and Job’s Fishing Road has 8:30 a.m. Each First Friday Mass ends with exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Adoration continues until Benediction at 5 p.m. NEW BEDFORD — Eucharistic Adoration is held every Thursday, with Confessions, from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe at St. James Church. Please use the side entrance. NEW BEDFORD — There is a daily holy hour from 5:15-6:15 p.m. Monday through Thursday at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 1359 Acushnet Avenue. It includes Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, Liturgy of the Hours, recitation of the Rosary, and the opportunity for Confession. NEW BEDFORD — St. Lawrence Martyr Parish, 565 County Street, holds Eucharistic Adoration in the side chapel Fridays from 7:30-11:45 a.m. ending with a simple Benediction NORTH DARTMOUTH — Eucharistic Adoration takes place at St. Julie Billiart Church, 494 Slocum Road, every Tuesday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., ending with Benediction. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is available at this time. NORTH DIGHTON — Eucharistic Adoration takes place every Wednesday following 8:00 a.m. Mass and concludes with Benediction at 4 p.m. Eucharistic Adoration also takes place every First Friday at St. Nicholas of Myra Church, 499 Spring Street following the 8 a.m. Mass, ending with Benediction at 4 p.m. The Rosary is recited Monday through Friday from 7:30 to 8 a.m. NORTH EASTON — A Holy Hour for Families including Eucharistic Adoration is held every Friday from 3-4 p.m. at The Father Peyton Center, 518 Washington Street. NORTH EASTON — Eucharistic Adoration takes place at Immaculate Conception Church Chapel on the first Wednesday of the month beginning after the 8:30 a.m. Mass, until 6:40 p.m. Those wishing to make a monthly commitment can sign up on the parish website at www.icceaston.org or call the parish office at 508-238-3232. ORLEANS — St. Joan of Arc Parish, 61 Canal Road, has Eucharistic Adoration every First Friday starting after the 8 a.m. Mass and ending with Benediction at 11:45 a.m. The Sacrament of the Sick is also available immediately after the 8 a.m. Mass. SEEKONK — Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish has perpetual Eucharistic Adoration seven days a week, 24 hours a day in the chapel at 984 Taunton Avenue. For information call 508-336-5549. Taunton — Eucharistic Adoration takes place every Tuesday at St. Anthony Church, 126 School Street, following the 8 a.m. Mass with prayers including the Chaplet of Divine Mercy for vocations, concluding at 6 p.m. with Chaplet of St. Anthony and Benediction. Recitation of the Rosary for peace is prayed Monday through Saturday at 7:30 a.m. prior to the 8 a.m. Mass. Taunton — Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament takes place every First Friday at Annunciation of the Lord, 31 First Street. Exposition begins following the 8 a.m. Mass until 9 a.m. Taunton — The Chapel of St. Andrew the Apostle, 19 Kilmer Avenue, Taunton, will host Eucharistic Adoration Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 7 p.m. Taunton — St. Jude the Apostle Parish in Taunton will host Eucharistic Adoration on Mondays following the 9 a.m. Mass and the St. Jude Novena, until 11:30, ending with Benediction. It will take place at Holy Rosary Chapel during the summer months. WAREHAM — Eucharistic Adoration at St. Patrick’s Church takes place 9 a.m. Thursday through 7 p.m. Friday. Adoration is held in our Adoration Chapel in the lower Parish Hall.
† PERPETUAL EUCHARISTIC ADORATION † ATTLEBORO — Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration takes place at St. Vincent de Paul Parish, 71 Linden Street in Attleboro. East Sandwich — The Corpus Christi Parish Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration Chapel is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 324 Quaker Meeting House Road, East Sandwich. Use the Chapel entrance on the side of the church. NEW BEDFORD — Our Lady’s Chapel, 600 Pleasant Street, offers Eucharistic Adoration seven days a week, 24 hours a day. For information call 508-996-8274. SEEKONK — Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish has perpetual Eucharistic Adoration seven days a week, 24 hours a day in the chapel at 984 Taunton Avenue. For information call 508-336-5549. WEST HARWICH — Our Lady of Life Perpetual Adoration Chapel at Holy Trinity Parish, 246 Main Street (Rte. 28), holds perpetual Eucharistic Adoration. We are a regional chapel serving all of the surrounding parishes. All are invited to sign up to cover open hours. For open hours, or to sign up call 508-430-4716.
† O bituary † Ann M. (Reardon) Powers, 88, mother of diocesan Human Resources director Peter J. Powers DORCHESTER — Ann M. Powers (Reardon), age 88, of Dorchester passed away at home September 12 surrounded by her loving family. Born in Boston, she was raised in Dorchester and attended Cardinal Cushing High School in South Boston. She is a lifelong resident of Dorchester and enjoyed spending her summers in Priscilla Beach.
Beloved wife of the late James F. Jr. and mother of James M. Powers of Dorchester; George G. Powers and his wife Yumi of Charlestown; Ann M. Powers of Plymouth; Gerard J. Powers and his wife Lynne of Quincy; Teresa A. Bennett and her husband Robert of Dorchester; Patricia A. Schneider and her husband Mark of Plymouth; Jacqueline A. O’Dwyer and her husband
Michael of Dorchester; Peter J. Powers and his wife Lisa of Easton; and Rosalind A. Kessel and her husband Kenneth of Plymouth. She was the sister of George “Laddie” Reardon and his wife Ruth of Braintree and the late Paul and Joseph Reardon. She is also survived by 25 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. Mark’s Church in Dorchester on September 17, with burial following at Cedar Grove Cemetery in Dorchester. Donations in her memory may be made to the Martin Richard Foundation, 1452 Dorchester Avenue, Fourth Floor, Dorchester, Mass. 02122 or at online at www. teammr8.org.
To advertise in The Anchor, contact Wayne Powers at 508-675-7151 or email waynepowers@ anchornews. org September 20, 2019 †
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