09.28.01 by The Anchor

VOL. 45, NO. 37 • Friday, September 28, 2001

FALL RIVER, MASS.

Southeastern Massachusetts' Largest Weekly • $14 Per Year

Lecture series to inform laity of medical ethics

ST. THERESA OF THE CHILD JESUS CHURCH, ATTLEBORO

Attleboro parish celebrates 75th • anniversary By

DAVE JOLIVET

EDITOR

ATTLEBORO - The parish family of St. Theresa of the Child Jesus will celebrate a Jubilee Mass here on Sunday, closing the parish's 75th year of service to the Fall River diocese. Bishop Sean P. O'Malley, OFM Cap., and Father James W. Fahey, pastor of St. Theresa's will concelebrate the 11 a.m. Mass. A breakfast buffet will follow in the church basement. In addition, a commemorative anniversary booklet will be made available to parishioners beginning at the 4:30 p.m. Mass tomorrow. A dinner dance at Venus de Milo Restaurant in Swansea on October 27 will conclude the celebrations. St. Theresa of the Child Jesus was founded in October of 1925, but the 75th anniversary celebrations were deferred until the end of the Jubilee Year so not to conflict with the 125th anniversary . celebrations of its Attleboro sister parish, St; Stephen's.'. The roots of St. Theresa's Parish can be traced to 1923 when then bishop Daniel F. Sheehan purchased a parcel of land in South Attleboro for the future establishment of a parish to serve both French- and English-speaking Catholics in the neighborhood. On October 1,1925, Father Joseph LaRue was appointed pastor of this new parish. Since it was the year of the canonization of the Little Flower of Carmel, and the opening of the parish coincided with the feast of the new saint, Father LaRue requested the new parish be called St. Theresa of the Child Jesus. Until a new church could be built, Father LaRue and the faithful searched for temporary quarters. Eventually, Charles O'Connor generously donated space in his restaurant for Sunday services. It was there that the firsiMass in South Attleboro was celebrated on October 4, 1925. In the summer of 1926 a temporary chapel was erected housing the congregation until extensive renovations were initiated in 1947 under the direction of the new pastor, Father Anatole Desmarais. New altars and pews were installed, the interior was painted and decorated, a new parking lot was cleared and the parcel was smartly landscaped. Father Stanislaus Goyette was named the new pastor in 1950, faithfully serving St. Theresa's until 1954. Father Gerard J. Chabot became pastor in 1954, and it was under his pastorship that the current St. Theresa's Church building was planned and built. . In the spring of 1954, with the parish continuing to grow, Tum to page 13 - Attleboro

By DEACON JAMES N. DUNBAR and Pre-Marital Relations" with Dr. Christopher FALL RIVER - A four-part free lecture se- Klofft, prof~ssor of Moral Theology at Assumpries "Catholic Teaching on Medical Ethics" spe- tion College; - November 13, "Undercifically dealing with what lastanding Hospital and Cliniity should know in order to cal Issues: Pain, Proxies, and make informed decisions, Trauma" with Ann Baker, will be held in October and RN., consultant on ethics at November. Norwood Hospital. Sponsored by The Order "The lecture series is basiof Malta, Saint Anne's Hoscally an undertaking of the pital, the Diocesan Office of ' American Association of the Adult Education and DiocSovereign Military Order of esan Health Facilities, the Malta, Boston Area," extalks will be held at Bishop plained John V. McManmon Connolly High School in Fall Jr., of Centerville, who is a River from 7 to 8:30 p.m. member. The following are theHe said some of the good dates, the topics and the works by sister chapters was speakers: to do adult formation work - October 23, "End of , in the general area of CathoLife Decisions: Myths and , lic theology for the laity. It Realities" with, Father James subsequently became clear O'Donohoe,_ professor of that one of the most unfulHealthcare Ethics and Justice filled areas was in biomedical at Boston College; ethics. Following a successful - October 30, "Moral program in Connecticut, a and Spiritual Concerns: Digcommittee explored bringing nity of the Human Person" biomedical and ethics courses with Jesuit Father Edward for the laity by first-rate scholars Vacek , professor of Christian Ethics and Theology at Weston Jesuit College of to Massachusetts, Rhode Island and three other northern states, McManmon reported. Theology; - November 6, "Human Sexuality: Procreation Tum to page 13 - Lecture

St.· Vincent's children reach out to kids .in New York By DEACON JAMES N. DUNBAR FALL RIVER - When many were asking what they could do to alleviate the recent tragic- events in New York, the, children of St.Vincent's Home in : Fall River already had plans underway to raise funds to help their young counterparts in the Big Apple. The local youngsters are already holding car washes and donating all of the funds raised to "Save the Children's Fund for Children U.S. Crisis." The fund in is L..

ally as a result of the terrorism at~: WashiIigt<in, D.C.; and in 'pennsyltacks at New York's former Trade vailia. Center Towers, at the Pentagon in "During this difficult time in our country's history it is important that we work together to help those in need," said John T. Weldon, executive director at St. Vincent's. "The mission of St. Vincent's is to give children in need what they need most. It is our hope that, by raising --'__"" these funds, the children of St. Vincent's can help the children in need in New York." ........... He said that directed at helping CHILDREN AT St. Vincent's Home in Fall River wash many of the youths children who are cars to help raise funds to help children in New York Tum to page 13struggling emotion- who were affected by t.he September 11 attack. St. Vincent

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THE ANCHOR - Diocese of Fall River - Fri., September 28, 2001

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Father Antoine Charest, S.M. CAMBRIDGE, Mass. - Marist nary in Framingham by the Most FatherAntoine Charest died Septem- . Rev. Richard 1. Cushing, D.D. Following ordination, Father ber 23 at the Sancta Maria Nursing Charest taught at Maryvale SemiCenter here. He was 90 years old. Father Charest 'was born in St. nary in Bedford, Mass. He served Germaine Kamourska, Quebec, as parochial vicar at St. Anne's Canada on June 13, 1911. He was Church, Lawrence, Mass.; Saint the 10th of 12 children born to the Theresa Church, Methuen, Mass.; late Ludovic and Anne Marie Saint Bruno Church, Van Buren, (Tardif) Charest. He attended Saint Maine; Our Lady of Pity Church, Anthony elementary school in Fall Cambridge; Saint Charles Church, River and did his secondary educa- Providence, R.I.; Mount Carmel tion and junior college with the Church, Methuen, Mass.; and as Blessed Sacrament Fathers in pastor ofOur Lady of Pity and Saint . Anne's Church. Suffern, N.Y. While living as a senior religious He entered the Society of Mary . making his novitiate at Our Lady of in Fall River, Father Charest did the Elms in Staten Island, N.Y. Fa- ministerial work at Saint Jean ther Charest made his profession of Baptiste retiring from active minisvows as a Marist on September 5, try to Our Lady of Pity in 1991. He 1934. He studied philosophy and resided for the past two years at Our theology at Marist College in Wash- Lady of Victories in Boston. He is survived by a sister, Saint ing~0r:t.D;~.,and M.ari~t Co~eg~ and Clare Sister Lucie Charest, of S~min¥y in Framingham, Mass. Father. Charest ordained to the Montreal, Quebec, Canada, nieces priesthOOd June 24, 1940 in' the and nephews and his confreres in chapel of Marist College and Semi- the Marist c~n:Imunity.

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THE OFFICE OF ADULT EDUCATION PRESENTS

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; course. Each week take a closer look at the Gospel \~, ~ ofLuke, reflect on a,theme, and disc~v~r C~ri~t .. v~ ~ ST. PATRICK 5, WAREHAM. 7.00 8.30 P.M. Facilitated by Deacon Michael P. Guy

Classes begin on October 3 and end on November 14. . •• -.t\ILcll\SS~~are.Qn,Wednesciays.No class on October 31. ';' . !; .., 1.)~: •. J""" •• :~.~;~:':.~(;' ." :,~, J;' ~rl/"··j!. J', '1 '"-.. t; .:i],: .'" FOR INFORMATIONl,CALL THE OFfiCEOf' 'ADULTI EDUCATION /JlT", ,:

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DIRECTOR OF MUSIC A parish of approximately 700 families in the Taunton area seeks an individual with organlkeyboard experience knowledgeable in Roman Catholic Liturgy to lead its singing congregation' and adult choir, provide music for all- parish liturgies and develop the music ministry in other ways, (formation of a youth choir, cantor and song leader training, etc.) : The right person must understand the position to be that of _ ministry and be willing to work with others. Additional .stipend for weddings' and funer:als.Interested persons should send resume (with references) including desired wages to: : .. '. ' . '.' >"'1Vtu~ic'Ministry-Se'ar,ch .. ..

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Joseph's·~Church

Daily Readings Oct 1

Oct 2

Oct 4

\\\..iVing As The BelOVed"

Oct 5

Oct 6

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230 'SouthMciiti Street: Centervi lie: 'MA'026~~~ Registration begins ar 1:00pm. . Refreshments will be served. Program wi II conclude with a new documentary:

."Straight to the Hearl: The life of Henri Nouwetl' Participants invited to attend 5:30pm Mass following the program. RSVP to (508) 775-5744 if you'd like to attend. Suggested Donation of $15 (Students and Seniors $10)

Oct 7 ;

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FALL RIVER - Saint Anne's Hospital has announced the October dates for its mobile mammography van. A registered nurse and registered radiology technologist provides

Cod Fall Retreat

Sponsored by The Henri Nouwen Society And the Porish Nursesof Our lody of Victory Church in Centerville.' When: Sunday, October 14th 1:30pm -.5:00pm

Saint Anne's slates ;:t;,i';"" \I#amDl9gr~phy dates .

Oct 3

. 19 ·Kilmer Avenue Taunton, MA 02780 Cap~

MOMENTS AFTER his installation as the fourth bishop of Rockville Center, N.Y., earlier this month, Bishop William F. Murphy, left, a former auxiliary bishop of !3oston, announced that a diocesan synod and Eucharistic Congress would take place there in 2007 during the Long Island diocese's 59th anniversary. At right is retired Bishop John R. McGann. (CNS photo by Greg LaFreniere, Long Island Catholic)

Zec 8:1-8; Ps 102:16-23;29; Lk 9:46-50 Zec 8:20-23; Ps 87:1-7; Mt 18:15,10 Neh 2:1-8; Ps 137:1-6; Lk 9:5762 Neh 8:1-4a,56,7n-12; Ps 19:811; Lk 10:1-12 Bar 1:15-22; Ps 79:1-5,8-9; Lk 10:13-16 Bar 4:5-12,27-29; Ps 69:33-37; Lk 10:17-24 Hb 1:2-3;2:2-4; Ps 95:1-2,6-9; 2 Tm 1:6-8,13-14; Lk 17:5-10

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THE ANCHOR (USPS-54S.mo) Periodical ;'ostage Paid at Fall River, Mass. Published weekly except for the first two weeks in July am the week after Christmas at 887 Highland Avenue. Fall River, Mass. fJZ7W by the Calholic PJ:ess of the Diocese of Fall River. SuOOcription price by mail. postpaid $14.00 per year. POSTMASTERS send address changes to The Anchor, P.O. Box 7, Fall River. MA 00.712.,

mammograms, clinical breast exams, Pap tests and physical exams. Other health services include free breast and cervical education and further diagnostic testing ifdeemed necessary. Portuguese-speaking staff and interpreters for other languages are also available. AppOintments 'are necessary for all services by calling the host sites below. For more information, contact Maria Cabrales, RN, at 508-675-5658. .

- October 2, 8:30 a.m.- 3:30 p.m., SSTAR, 400 Stanley Street, Fall River, 508-675-1054; -.,. October 6, 8:30 a.m.- 3:30 p.m., Htidner Oncology Center at St. Anne's, Osborn and Forest streets, Fall River, 508-675-5688; - October 16, noon - 6 p.m., Health First, 102 County Street, Fall River, 508-679-8111; - October 27, 8:30 a.m.- 3:30 p.m., Hudner Oncology Center, 508-675-5688. '

In Your 'Prayers Plea.$.e pray for the following priests during the coming week. Oct. 2 1961, Rev. Joseph E. Sutula, PaStor, St. Casimir, New Bedford 1999, Rev. Rene R. Levesque, PaStor, Blessed Sacrament, Fall River

OCt. 3 1991, Rev. Msgr. ArthurG.Considine, Retired Pastor, St. Mary, South Dartmouth '-~

Oct. 5 1999, Rev. Jean D. Pare, O.P., AssistaritDirector, St. Anne Shrine, Fall River \'.1 I

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1916, Rev. S~piieri a: Magill, Assistant, Immaculate Conception, North Easton 1987, Rev. Roland BrOdeur, Uniondale, N.Y.

Oct. 7 . 1951, Rev. Caesar Phares. Pastor, St. Anthony of the Desert, Fall River 1975, Rev. Msgr. ArthurG. Dupuis, Pastor Emeritus, St. Louis de France, Swansea 1988, Rev. Andrew Jahn, SS:CC., Sacred Hearts Seminary, Wareham

In Kazakstan,' pope condemns terrorism, begs God to .prevent war ASTANA, Kazakstan (CNS) the Kazak capital, Astana. Referring to the suicide - From the steppes of Central Asia, a region where the United hijackings that left more than States and Islamic militants ap- 6,000 dead in the United States, peared headed for c9nfrontation, the pope said: "We must not let Pope John Paul II begged God to what has happened lead to a deepprevent war and condemned acts ening of divisions. Religions must of terrorism carried out in the _ never be used as a reason for conname of religion. flict." Visiting the former Soviet reOn the six-hour plane trip from' public of Kazakstan September Rome to Astana, the pope read and 22-25, the pope reached out to the re-read a text of U.S. President Muslim majority and asked them George W. Bush's speech to Conto join Christians in building a gress two days earlier, Vatican "civilization of love" that rejects spokesman Joaquin Navarro-Valls . violence and hatred. said. With Afghanistan just 200 miles With apprehension growing over possible armed conflict in the south of Kazakstan, the pope's wake of terrorist attacks in the thoughts were clearly on the miliUnited States, the pope told his tary showdown that appeared to audience in Kazakstan: "I beg God be developing in the region. The to keep the world in peace. United States accused Afghanistan "From this place, I invite both of harboring Islamic militants susChristians and Muslims to raise an pected oforchestrating the attacks intense prayer to the one, almighty and was sending troops, ships and God whose children we all are, that planes to the area. The militants the supreme' good of peace may were threatening to call a "holy reign in the world," he said, war" if attacked. switching from Russian to English Cardinal Angelo Sodano, who at the end of an outdoor Mass in as secretary of state usually accom-

panies the pontiff on foreign trips, remained in Rome at the pope's request to better monitor the rapidly evolving international mobilization against the terror suspects. Navarro-Valls said Cardinal Sodano would maintain contact with foreign authorities and "keep them informed on the pope's thoughts regarding the current situation." Addressing religious and culturalleaders , Pope John Paul said Christians have great respect for "authentic Islam: the Islam that prays, tha~ is concerned for those in need. "Recalling the errors of the past, including the most recent past, all believers ought to unite their efforts .to ensure that God is never made the hostage of human ambitions. Hatred, fanaticism and terrorism profane the name of God and disfigure the true image of man," he said. In Kaiakstan, whose southern border is frequently crossed by fundamentalist Muslims, security was tight for the papal visit. Po-

Bishop Sean P. O'Malley, OFM Cap., had designated the weekend of September 22-23 as a "sign-up weekend," for all parishioners attending Mass within the diocese to have the opportunity to become an active part of MCC-NET, a statewide legislative action network developed by the Massachusetts Catholic Conference, the Church's public policy office in the Commonwealth. The purpose of MCC-NET is to build a grassroots network of Catholics willing to write or call their legislators to protect human life, strengthen marriage and the family, and achieve jus!ice for the less fortunate. . '. : '.• : "... ' ; : For those who wish to join MCC-NET, and haven '( received ali appli~ cation brochure, complete the form below and mail it to the MCC at the \~~~~~ address provided. E::S For more information on the Massachusetts Catholic Conference or MCC-Net, call 617-367-6060 or visit the Website at www.macathconf.org.

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I Yes, I want to work for laws in Masscu:husetts thoJ protect human life at aU stages, support 11Ull'riage and thefamily, and serve the needs ofthe poor by wriling and calling my legislators on specifU: bills! I want to join MCC-NET!

Detach and mail your completed sign-up form to the Massachusetts Catholic Conference, West End Place, Ist Floor, 150 Staniford Street, Boston, MA 02114-2511. (Please print information clearly)

Name:

FAX:

E-mail:

My Parish:

Please Indude Porlsb Nome. II< Cllyflbwn wben! your porlsb Is located.

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Since the actual place of residence of ROBERT ARTHUR SOUSA is unknown. We cite ROBERT ARTHUR SOUSA to appear personally before the Tribunal of the Diocese of Fall River on Tuesday, Oc· tober 9, 2001 at 2:30 p.m. at 887 Highland Avenue, Fall River, Massachusetts, to give testimony to establish: WIlIt/IIt ... nallity of the maniIge exists in the ~etrzll-Sousa cast? Ordinaries of the place Of other pastors having the knowledge of the residence of the above person, Robert Arthur Sousa, must see to it that he is properly advised in regard to this edictal citation. (Rev.) Paul F. Robinson,D. Gonn., J.G.D. Judicial Vicar Given at the Trih'· ..

Since the actual place of residence of STEPHEN PHILLIP MEDEIROS is unknown. We cite STEPHEN PHILLIP MEOEIROS to appear personally before the Tribunal of the Diocese of Fall River on Thursday, Oc· tober 11, 2001 at 2:30 p.m. at 887 Highland Avenue. Fall River, Massachu· setts, to give testimony to estabfish:

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EDICTAL CITATION DIOCESAN TRIBUNAL FALL RIVER, MASSACHUSETIS

'.Beautifu{ setting over{ooQng !Mt. 9lope '.Bay.

EDICTAL CITATION DIOCESAN TRIBUNAL FALL RIVER, MASSACHUSETTS

pression. The pope, seated on an outdoor platform and wrapped in a red cloak, said Kazakstan's harmonious ethnic mix was a hopeful model for the region and the rest of the world, and he praised Kazakstan's decision to denuclearize its temtory after the breakup of the Soviet Union. The pope, whose hands tremble because of a nervous disorder, was trying out a laptop podium designed to help him keep his text together. That idea backfired when the podium slid off at one point, scattering the pages of his speech. President Nazarbayev quickly picked them up, as the pope said "Excuse me" in Italian. Despite the late hour of his arrival, the pope paid an immediate visit to a monument honoring victims of totalitarian regimes. He stood and prayed before a memorial wall that commemorates the estimated two million people deported to Kazakstan under Soviet leader Joseph Stalin and the hundreds of thousands who were sent to forced labor camps in the republic.

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lice were stationed every few feet along the pope's motorcade route, main roads were closed to traffic and Mass-goers had their bags searched. The pope told Kazak President Nursultan Nazarbayev that he resisted calls to cancel his trip. "They told me there was no possibility of this visit because of the tragic events., But you can see that it is possible, thank God," he said in a meeting with the president. . For his part, Nazarbayev thanked the pope for reducing the risk of "Islamophobia" in' the world. He also told the pope that Kazakstan was ready to join a coalition to pursue terrorists, because "no country, no matter how big, can fight terrorism on its own." At his Mass inAstana's Mother of the Homeland Square, the pope's call for harmony seemed to resonate with the' estimated 50,000 people in attendance, including many Muslims. "We are very afraid. It seems like a confrontation between the United States and the Muslim world. The war has already begun, even if there is no shooting yet. So it's good the pope has comehe's bringing a message of peace," said Bolatbek Beialov, a 28-yearold Muslim schoolteacher. Christians and Muslims in Kazakstan have good relations, and the pope urged them to keep cooperating "day by day, side by side, in the effort to fulfill God's will.'" '.' . . .

_ Please Indude MrJMn./Ms., First NIIJIIe, Middle Initial and Last Name. If slpllII" married touple,lndude nam.. or both spouses.

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THE ANCHOR - Diocese of Fall River - Fri., September 28, 200 I

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Ordinariesol-.,.e or other pastors •having the knowledge of the residence of the above person, Stephen Phillip Medeiros, must see to it that he is properly advised in regard to this edictal citation. (Rev.) P"ul F. Robinson, 0. Garm., j.G.D. , Judir.i;;1 Vic;;,. W G:i:lenj;"\h~' -'i'~ '., .'!

EDICTAL CITATION DIOCESAN TRIBUNAL FALL RIVER, MASSACHUSETTS Since the actual place of residence of SHIRlEY PITTSLEY WARMSLEY is unknown. We cite' SHIRLEY PITTSLEY WARMSLEY to appear personally before the Tribunal of the Diocese of Fall River on juesday, October 9, 2001 at 10:30 a.m. at 887 Highland Avenue, Fall River, Mas· sachusetts, to give testimony to establish: WIlItMr thl rwIlity et tlla IIIIrrilp uisli in die Botalho·Pittsley case? . Ordinaries Gf the place or other pastors having the knowledge of the residence of the above person, Shirley Pittsley Warmsley, ,must see to it that she is properly advised in regard to this edictal citation. (Rev.) Paul F. Robinson, D. Calm.. jr, n ~i Judicio! Vicar II Given at 1he Tribunal, .' F"'! Ri·J~r. ~.qassachusNiS , I!Il thi. I;O~ 17-11 da',' ~f SEC'

The Gospel According to St. ·Matthew A Bible Study co-sponsored by St. Joseph's Parish and the Office of Adult Education Lisa M. Gulino· Director of Adult Education Embark on a spiritual journey with others as together we read, study, and pray over the Word of God. Together we will contemplate the Person 01 Christ, His Mission, -.oiII....~ and our call to discipleship. Ourtextwill be the Gospel ~ of St, Matthew. Dates and times are listed below.

The Bible studies meet every __ week.

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ST.JOSEPH CHURCH, ATTLEBORO 9:30 -10:15 A.M. (Immediately following Morning Mass)

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THE ANCHOR - Diocese of Fall River - Fri., September 28, 200I

the living word

themoorin~ Am~rica, the self-controlled "0 beautiful for patrioi. dream, That sees beyond the' years. Thine alabaster cities gleam, Undimmed by human tears.~' This verse from the patriotic hymn truly summarizes the mood and feelings so many millions share in these very heart-wrenching times. Yet the words in this anthem should guide us as we now'take up the banner to bring to justice those peoples, forces and nations that abetted this crime. At the conclusion of the second verse we sing: "Confirm thy soul in self-control. Thy liberty in law." This moving admonition should be a message to all who indeed must guide the national mandate at this most unique moment in our lives as Americans. This will not be an easy task for it has not been . our nature as a people for the last decade. In these so-called "good times" we have let the abundance of the land become our false god. The wealth of materialism and the greed of capitalism have moved so many into a securitY that was subjective and selfish. Because we've had so very much it was unthinkable to even imagine that such a lifestyle could come to a crashing end. Let there be no mistake about the days to come; nothing will be the same as a result of September II. In a twinkle of our television eyes, the image of America has been altered. The earth has been shaken, thousands have been' vaporized and the nation moves into state of war. As forces are gathered, troops prepared and security enhanced, life in tI:!!s country will indeed be a challenge and change. Limits of law will be impos~ on us. What was . once thought of as a right may become a limit. Many will raise their voices in protest to restrictions and restraints. The outcry will come from the millions who in times of plenty could not distinguish between liberty and license; freedom and indulgence; restraint and gratification. Some will indeed find it very difficult to return to times that will demand from all of us accountability and responsibility, the connection of true freedom and liberty. There will be others whose selfinterpretation of civil rights will be a smokescreen hiding those elements):Q~P;ulY ..w~~Jl, our derpoc.ratic principals.'There J~ :a.differ; , ence between,'civjLrights and civil 'liberties 'and they sh~uld 'not be confuSed hy the emotion's of the times. We have, rights given to an by the Constitution and to all who choose freely to live by its guidelines. These are the freedoms we enjoy as citizens of this land. Every human being from conception to death has rights given to him or her by God. We are J'!1ade in His image and likeness. Our culture of death has attempted to destroy our true right to life. For those who aspire to such an adherence these times will certainly demand a clarification of life and living. There will indeed be times when controls will be imposed on all by the nation and the circumstances of the times. We will have to conform ourselves in self-control. For those who are believing Christians, this should not be a problem. It is our belief that 'self-control is God's gift to us in the Spirit. It is a fruit of the Spirit. This gift is a perfection that the Holy s'pirit forms in us as the first fruit of eternal joy. As it is reflected, "We live by the Spirit," the more w.e renounce ourselves, the more we "walk in the Spirit." We will have to make sacrifices that will indeed test the self. However when, we are challenged to do so, remember that our liberties are founded in law. Amid the smoldering wreckage of New York and Washington, we must continue to reinforce our democracy, our liberties and our laws so that the 'world indeed views a nation crowned with brotherhood from sea to shining sea.

The Executive Editor

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OffiCIAt NEWSPAPER Of ,THE DIOCESE, of fALL'RIVER'

Published wee~IY·by the Catholic PreSs of theDioC~s~Qf. Fall River' 887 Highland Avenue '.. " . '.• p.b~~O)({'·' ,,', Fall River, MA 02720', ' . "Fall River,MAQ2722-Q007: "Telephone 508-675.7151 .' FAXsO~6i5~,?~'" " . E-mail: TheAnchor@Anchornew~.org <:.' " Send address changes to Poe); ' Box;, call oruseE~~taddre~' , . . ' . ',. . . -." ..J-, :

EDITOR David B. Jollvet

A CHILD;WITH BRAZIL'S NATIONAL FLAG WRAPPED AROUND

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SHIRT DECLARING "PEACE" DURING AN INTERFAITH PRAYER SERVICE IN SAO PAULO, BRAZIL, RECENTLY. JEWS, CATHOI!.ICS AND MUSLIM LEADERS JOINED IN THE SERVICE FOR THE VICTIMS AND FOR THE UNITED STATES FOLLOWING THE SEPTEMBER

TERRORIST ATIACKS.

(CNS PHOTO FROM REUTERS)

"THOSE WHO LOVE YOUR LAW HAVE GREAT PEACE, AND ~OTHING CAUSES THEM TO STUMBLE" (PSALM

119:165).

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Sl~ughtering

the lambs Editor's note: Because of the Republican Army are skeptical breaking news of the terrorism about the demands of disarmaattacks on America, the follow- ment. The extremists of the Oring editorial by Executive Edi- ange Order clearly indicated they tor Msgr. John F. Moore, in- want and will continue to fuel the tended for publication in the fire of trouble for their own goals September 21 edition, was re- and gains. placed by a more timely one. It What makes this attack on chilappears here as an op-ed piece. dren so vile is that it becomes an

The horrendous sight of little Irish children being attacked and abused by a raging anti-Catholic gang of adults as they tried to enter their the front door of their school was yet another sight the world had to endure in the struggle for human rights. This latest Northem Ireland rage should be a clear indication to all that the Orange Order has no intention of entering into true and meaningful peace negotiations. Even the polic~ were at a loss to defend the children from the fears and tribulations of a raging mob. In fact, two soldiers and more than 45 police officers were injured and more than 250 bombs were thrown at those defending the children. The Good Friday agreement already in -place might as 'Yell be thrown into the trash. Britain !las been forced to rescind home rule and once more must send its troops to defend the innocent. This event also showed the world why members of the Irish

occasion that passes on to the next generation all the evils of the present. Peace will only come to Northern Ireland when the adult world ceases to inculcate the next generation with all the evils of 'violence and hatred. We can never expect the facade of negotiations to become an honest and meaningful process when we cannot prevent little children from becoming victims of violence. This .latest outburst in Belfast was a vivid reminder of the evils of racism inflicted on little children in Alabama in the 1960s or even in our Commonwealth, in South Boston, in the I 970s. When these events were viewed through the eyes of American racism, the entire media world sent forth a blast ofcondemnation and rightly so. Sad to say, the Belfast school bomb blast barely created a whisper in the 20th century editorial opinions. Aside from token hands lapping, few of our socalled human rights papers reflected any serious outrage. To-

kenism was the rule of the day. What is ever more disturbing is the silence of our own government especially in the light of its walkout from the World Conference Against Racism. It is obvi- ' ous that as a nation we pursue a policy of selective racism and bigotry. Even the taped inertia of Mary Robinson, the United Nations' commissioner for Human Rights and former President of the Irish Republic, indicated her lack of desire to become involved in the Irish question, perhaps due to her own ambitions. Britain, of course, has the obligation to defend the Catholic community's goal to b~ equal and free in its own land. The United States, which pours billions into the North of Ireland, has a vested interest in assuring that our values are not eradicated simply because of economics: The American media must not continue a selective process of prejudice in its· reporting and programming. If all fail to pursue justice and peace because of subjective policies and interests, then there will never be an objective solution to the anger and hatred that continues to seep· into the minds of young people be they in Belfast, ,Jerusalem, or even here in the streets of America. Why do we continue to slaughter the lambs?

After the terror, solidarity Within hC>urs after the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and, the Pentagon, the emails started arri ving from all over the world. The fractured and misspelled English in . which some were written conveyed more genuine feeling than a letter that would pass muster with the "Chicago Manual of Style." Colombia: "I just learned about the criminal attack to your country. I deeply regreted it and I want to express my personal sympa'thy and concernd. You and the entire american nation are in my prayers today Joaquin." Spain: "My whole country is supporting you all! Our flags all over Spain are gonna be waving at half-mast for 48 hours, as a symbol of condolence for those victims, families and all the american people. Prayers Maria." England: "There is little I can say. I am just trying to embrace the whole of America and our civilization in my prayers. God bless - Gerry." Slovakia: "Be sure we are all

very cocerned about your lifes and the lifes of all peple in danger. Please let us know that you are OK and send us any news.

George Weigel

We keep in prayer - Laura." Germany: "My sympathies are today with you and your people after this terrible attacks in New York and Washington. Heartfelt greetings - Manfred." Mexico: "Since we knew about the terrible events we've been praying for the cbuntry, for those people and their families. And for the authorities of USA, asking for them clearness and wisdom to take the best decision. I pray and hope you, your family and friends are fine. Sending our spiritual support Caroll." Australia (with typical Aussie bluntness): "Are you OK? What is your phone number? Joseph."

Poland: "On your hands I like to send my deepest words of the solidarity with all suffering Americans. Some were killed yesterday and share the greatness of the mercifull Lord, some are wounded, or mourn they loves ones. God help America and our sorrowful world Marek." Ukraine: "Yesterday we learned the horrible news about explosions in New York and Washington from TV and we are absolutely shocked about this ... Unbelievable... We are presenting our condolences to you in light o~ this terrible accidents. We arc preying for you. Vladimir and Olya." Portugal: "I am deeply sorry about the tragedy that happens in your country. I hope that you and your family are all savedIvone." About which, two things should be said. The first has to do with the Church. Moments like this teach us, tangibly, that Catholicism is truly a global community of solidarity, in which wounds to one member are felt throughout .

the body. From conversations with other American Catholic' friends, I know that this deeply moving experience of international "communio" was widely shared, and was deeply appreciated in the wake of a barbaric attack which seemed to express, in living and dying color, the worst" wickedness of which the human heart is capable. The second thing to notice about these messages is that they convey a profound respect for America from people who are not Americans, but who nevertheless recognize what the United States means for the world. Americans are not' the cultural descendants of the Puritans for nothing, and, as a people, we are given to a lot of self-flagellation - sometimes for good reason. Worldwide outpourings of solidarity and concern, like those many of us received in the hard days after September II, are a helpful reminder that, to millions, perhaps billions, of people, the United States is a beacon of purpose and decency in an often-dark world. It will be well to keep this in

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Letters to the Editor Editor: We all stand in horror at the tragic events that unfolded on September 11 in our country. The U.S. Federation of Sisters of Saint Joseph, which represents 9,000 Catholic sisters in 23 congregations and numerous lay associates, is calling for prayer and fasting, unity and reconciliation in our communities and among our friends and neighbors. We call on God's grace to sustain the families of those who lost loved ones and to comfort them ... and we seek solace in the strength of God to guide world leaders to a common ground of peace and reconciliation. Together we decry the violent acts... and together we pray, fast 'and extend ourselves for a nonviolent and just response that draws on the hopeful and healing powers of God. Sister Jane F. Morrissey, SSJ President, Sisters of St. Joseph

Editor: On September 11, America was attacked by those who are determined to destroy us. Now America has declared "War on T~rrorism" and rightly so. Tuesday's attack was just one of many which could be perpetrated against Americans, including biological or chemical attacks. As a mother of a serviceman'in the U.S. Coast Guard, I will pray for his safety and the safety of all service personnel. The feast of Our Lady of Good Voyage, 'commemorating a miracle in 1600 when . three fishermen in peril of a storm off Cuba were ,saved - and the subsequent apparition of the Virgin Mary to t~ose who sQught her intercession, was recently observed in New Bedford. It offered another wonderful opportunity to pray to God through the Blessed Virgin's intercession, asking him once again t9 protect and guard all of us from danger. ' . Mary Ann. Booth South Dartmouth

THE ANCHOR - Diocese of Fall River - Fri., September 28,200 I

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mind in the months and years ahead. It is true that the attacks on New York and Washington were an attack on civilization itself. it is equally true that the defense of civilization requires leadership. And it is further true that the friends of civilization - whose sound instincts must often be distinguished from the myopia of their countries' political, cultural, and media elites - welcome American leadership in world affairs. They know that the United States, while a great power, is not just a great power. And they understand that the world is a better place for that. George Weigel is a senior fellow ofthe Ethics and Public Policy Center in Washington, D.C.

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Did the God the Father also suffer on the cross?

THE ANCHOR - Diocese ofFal1 River- Fri., September 28,2001

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Q. Did God the Father and the Holy Spirit suffer the crucifixion with God the Son? This odd question arose in our discussion group. Most of us agreed the answer is no, but we had no good reason. (New York) A. You might be sur-

Tertullian and Hippolytus, rejected the new teachings as contrary to the affirmations about Jesus in the Gospel of John. The Church's later formalization of Trinitarian dogmas, of course,

but downright hazardous? (California)

ATTLEBORO:- A d~y-long the Sacred Heart ofJesus Parish CenA. I know from my mail on seminar for women caregivers will ter. For more information call Mary the subject that your .son is one of be held October 6 at the La Salette Macedo at 508-993-9179. many Catholics who experience Shrine from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. It will serious physical reactions to inNORTH DARTMOUTH-The be led by Christine Homen and focense. But I don't know cus on the importance of self-care and next Rainbows program for children what can be done about it, health boundaries. For more infor- who have lost a parent tlirough death, except for pastors to be mation call the Shrine-'s counseling . divorce or separation, will be held aware of the problem. . October 3 at the diocesan Family Life ' prised to know that your center at 508-236-9082. In a previous column I Center. For more information call question came up very ~, ~" i , ",! reported that, surprisingly FALL RIVER - A program en- Christine Homen at 508-999-6420, seriously'in the early de'titled "End of Life Decisions: Myths ext. 18. to me at least, manufaccades of Christianity. and Realities," will be presented by turers have tried without One group of clergy By Father ORLEANS - A Separated-Di- and theologians advanced Father James 0' Donohoe October 23 success to produce a John J. Dietzen from 7-8:30 p.m. at the Bishop vorced Catholics Support Group will the idea that Father and nonallergenic incense Connolly High School auditorium. meet Septen:tber 30 at the St. Joan of with a satisfactory aroma. Son were actually, two This is part one of a four-part lecture Arc Parish Center. Psychologist Joe The"ones I spoke with suggest only confirmed those intuitions. names for the same divine perseries. For more information call Lisa Carney will address the topic "How Modalism was condemned by that priests use less incense durthe Current Tragic Events Can Bring son. They were called "modalists" Gulino at ~08-678-2~28. up Past Traumatic Experiences." Wel- because they believed God re- at least two popes, Ca!listus in the ing the liturgy. An Ohio pharmacis.t 'informs FALL RIVER - The Fall River come is at 6:30 p.m. and the meeting veals himself in three "modes": year 220 and Dionysius in 260. First Friday Men's Club invites all men begins at 7 p.m. For more informa- Father, Son and Holy Spirit. As the saying goes, this is me of a product called "Maxiof area parishes to join them October . tion call Father Richard Roy at 508Modalists were identified by probably more than you wanted Masks," blue masks designed spe5 for Mass at 6 p.m. at Sacred Heart 255-0170. ' several names, one of which was to know, but it should answer cifically to filter out al1ergens of Church. An informal dinner will folthis kind. They may be botherSANDWICH _ Catholic Social "patripassianists" - from "pater" your question. low in the parish center. For more inQ. I recently took my fam- some, but they are inexpensive Services will hold an information ses(father) and "passio" (suffering) formation call 508-678-1792. sionOctober21 from 2-4 p.m. at Cor- - because they believed the Fa- ily to a cathedral miles from and might solve the problem for FALL RIVER -The Youth pus Christi Parish for individuals and ther suffered on the cross along our home to celebrate a spe- many people. A free brochure answering cial day. During Mass our asthApostles Institute announces a se- families interested in adopting a child with the Son. ries of seminars designed for men from a foreign country or a domestic The Church's theology of the matic son was driven out of the questions Catholics ask about receiving the holy Eucharist is and women who minister to and newborn. Refreshments will be Holy Trinity was not yet fully church by the incense. with youth. The seminars are held served and handouts will be avail- developed. Questions about the We realize the symbolism of available by sending a on the first Tuesday of each month able. For more information call Mary- divine sonship of Jesus and his incense, but that is not much stamped, self-addressed enverelation to the Father were heavily help for people with serious re- lope to Father John Dietzen, in the Conference Room at St. Lou Mancini at 508-674-4681. Anne's Shrine, Fall River. Youth debated, however, and Christian actions to these chemicals. Box 325, Peoria IL 61651. ministers, teachers, catechists, parSEEKONK - The Diocesan Vo- teaChing about the three persons Doesn'.t the Church realize Questions for this column ents and other interested persons are cation Office is hosting a Vocation invited to join us begin~ing at 7: 15 Awareness Day Sunday from 1-5 p.m. in God ~as gradually being for- there are many men .and may be sent to Father Dietzen women and children for whom at the same address, or e-mail .. . for.Evening.Prayer, 7:30 p.m. for atStMary'sChurch.Formoreinfor- ~ulated. incense is not only annoying jjdietzen@aol.com. ,.,-M<\S~ i.Q ~er..~tqry ch,!-p'el:.The,~mi- ,:jmatio..n :c.alLJ;~tl!er \C;::':.a,i~ .P:reg~n!1 at '" .... .9~he~ .~h.e~logl~1}S.,., mGludmg . nar begins at 8:00 in the Conference 508-675-1311. . Room. We finish around 9:00 p.m. TAUNTON- The annual Feast The October 2 seminar is "Teaching the Tough Stuff - Life, Death, of Our Lady of Fatima will be celMorals and ~ore" by Mary Pat ebrated October 13 at Saint Anthony Tranter, Ph.D. For directions or more of Lisbon Parish, 126 School Street, information, call Youth Apostles at with Mass at 7 p.m. Retired Father Manuel P. Ferreira will be the 508-672-2755. homilist and a candlelight procession I celebrate Columbus Day in October each year tors. I discovered how Italy was notable for its art, MISCELLANEOUS - The an- will follow Mass. Benediction ofthe with enthusiasm. This an occasion for me to re- Catholic faith, music and adventurous spirit, giving nual Respect Life Walk to aid moth- Blessed Sacrament will close the member my roots and my heritage with pride. For us people like Columbus, Michelangelo, Francis of ers and children will take place in evening. it was one of my "paisans;" Columbus, my coun- Assisi, Dante, DaVinci, Marconi, Verdi, Caruso. I Boston October 14 at I p.m. Join ,tryman, who made the first connection between'the reveled in my newfound ancestors, who were shaped TAUNTON - Members of the Bishop Sean P. O'Malley, OFM Cap., Pro-Life leaders and thousands more Taunton District Council of the St. world that was known and the "new" land yet un- by soul and a spirited freedom. . I could then look with pride at the millions of in this peaceful march for life. The Vincent de Paul Society will sponsor known, and changed the course of world history. Sadly enough, I had to Italians - the best and the Greater Fall River Massachusetts Citi- a Mass October 1 at 7 p~m. at St. bravest - who had left zens for Life is sponsoring a bus to the Anthony's Church fOf'the intention learn to be proud of my walk. For more information call Rita of the canonization of Blessed roots, being born Italiantheir villages, often with '. Pavao at 508-672-8483. . '. Frederic Ozanam and in memory of Arrierican, daughter of itn nothing'more tha'n the deceased Vincentians. The regular immigrant from Calabria.. . ,.... . . clothes on their backs, like NEW BEDFORD - A Bible monthly meeting will follow in the In my childhood back in my father, coming here to study entitled "The Gospel Accord- parish hall. the '30s, Italians often help build a country, caring to St. Matthew," will be presented were thought of as being By Antoinette Bosco rying all this richness with _ by Lisa Gulino of the diocesan OfTAUNTON - A Mass in obserdifferent and dull, called them. It was .mine. fice of Adult Education at Our Lady vance of Respect Life Sunday will Not long ago I coinciof Fatima Church from 9:30-10: 15 be videotaped in the Bishop Stang "wops" and "dagas." I a.m. beginning October 16. Meetings High School chapel Saturday at 11 didn't know whatthose words meant, but I knew dentally came across a book written in 1914 by a ' man named Frank Crane. Even back then, he blasted take place every other week: Future a.m. If you would like to help fill the they were negative and insulting. dates are: October 30, November 6, chapel please arrive early. It will be Today this level of prejudice against Italians has the unfair way Italians were being misjudged. 20, December 4 and 18. Refresh- broadcast October 7 at 8 a.m. on vastly lessened as descendants of Italian-Americans "In reality, the Italians are perhaps the pleasantest ments will be served. For registration Channel 6. have become businessmen, senators, representatives, ,people to live among on the face of the earth," he call 508-678-2828. judges, educators, scientists, writers and more. wrote. "They are kind. They adore little children, WAREHAM'- The Office of Yet, I find a prejudice I detest is still with us. and as a rule have large families. They are polite, NEW BEDFORD -A living ro- Adult Education presents a six-wee)<. sary will be held October 7 at St. Jo- course entitled "The Themes of St. Promoted by profit-seeking media, its latest mani- courteous and obliging. They are uniformly agreeseph-St. Therese Parish at 3 p.m. Fa- Luke;' atSt.PatIjck's Church from 7- festation is in an RBO television series, the touted able and hospitable to strangers - liberal thinkers and intense admirers of art and music." ther Roger Levesque will preside and 8:30 p.m. beginning October 3. "The Sopranos." Once again we have Italians portrayed as stereoThank you, Mr. Crane! it will include a procession led by Classes will meet October 10, 17, 24 On Columbus Day, I like to recall how Italians' the Knights of Columbus honor and November 17,24. For more in- typical thugs and losers, muscle-bound, machismo, guard and Men of the Sacred Hearts. formation, call 508-378-2828. loud, accepting of a "godfather system" and still in America erected statue of Columbus in the heart Father Jose Giunta will be guest tainted by a vast crime syndicate called the Mafia. of New York City in 1892. With approval from city WEST HARWICH - The Perspeaker. It wiUconCiude with BeneCommenting on these one-sided portrayals, authorities, they raised the money, found a Catholic diction of the Blessed Sacrament. For petual Adoration Chapel at Holy former New York Gov. Mario Cuomo commented, art student in Rome, a teen-ager named Gaetano more information call Alice Beaulieu Trinity Church, Route 28, invites "If you have a large assemQly of vowels in your Russo, to build it, and, upon completion, had it at 508-995-2354. people to sign up and spend an hour or two in prayer. This regional chapel name, the first thing people wonder is if there's a shipped to New York. On October 12 that year, Archbishop Corrigan NEW BIDFORD-The Daugh- of the mid-Cape area depends on the criminal connection." I was angry about the prejudice I felt against of New York blessed the statue of Columbus. It was ters of Isabella Hyacinth Circle #71 support of people. All ages welcome. will hold its monthly meeting Octo- For more information call Jane Italians as a child, and so I set out to learn about my a moment of triumph for Italian-Americans, to be origins, my history, my traditions and my ances- remembered every October 12. ber 9 at 7 p.m. at the Holy Name of Jannell at 508-430-0014.

Questions and Answers

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Italian-Americans and 'The Sopranos'

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TIffiANCHOR - Diocese ofFall River - Fri., September 28, 2001

Editor's note: The events that took place on September 11 have affected everyone in the Diocese ofFall River In one way oranother. Several religious In the diocese, including Bishop Sean P. O'Malley, OFM Cap., have offered to share with Anchor readers their homilies or reflections from recent Masses, prayer services or other gatherings relating to the terrorist attacks. A collection of such works appears on the next five pages, hopefUlly proViding our readers with comfort and strength at this important time in our nation's history.

Father Thomas M. Kocik St. Francis Xavier, Hyannis September 15路16 If we leam anything at all from the Scripture readings today, it is: the God who revealed Himself to the Jews of old, ihe God who spoke through the Prophets, the God who lived and walked among us in the person of Jesus Christ, is a God who forgives and takes delight in the conversion of a single sinner. We see in the first reading how Moses interceded with God on behalf of the Chosen People (Ex. 32:7-11, 13-14). -'fhey had _strl!)'~!H!1unJhe Come. mandments even while Moses was conversing with God on top of Mount Sinai. Moses makes no attempt to excuse the people's sin. He relies instead on the ancient promises of the Lord and His great mercy. The Apostle Paul understood his personal experiences in a similar light. He wrote to his co-worker, St. Timothy, these words in today's second reading: "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. AndI am theforemost of sinners; but I received merey for tim reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display His perfect patience" (I Tim. I: 15-16). God never tires of forgiving us, of helping us to 'dmw closer to Him. In this chapel and in churches all across the land, people gather this weekend 10 w~rship the Lord with beavy hearts and distraught minds because of last Tuesday's terrorist attacks on our nation. Wha1relevance does today's Gospel have for us as we try to cope, vacillating between sadness and hope, fear and rage, helplessness and compassion? We all know that the familiar parable of the prodigal son is the hallmark for reconciliation, and a challenge to us as we harbor dark thoughts of revenge and retaliation. Yes, those responsible for this unspeakable evil must be brought to justice. Yes, America has the right to defend her sovereignty and her citizens. But we must not allow ourselves to give in to hatred or bigotry against an entire people or nation. This we've heard again and again, and it is true. But it is only one way of applying the Gospel to the sad events of this past week. There is another way, which is admittedly more unsettling: What if we are the prodigal son? For all its greatoess, America .was northe sinless Bride ofChrist. In many ways we had strayed from our Father's house. While we mourn the thousands of dead and missing in New York and Washington, there is much complacency - even among Christians - over the thousands of children killed in the womb every day. The entertainment industry is awash with television shows and movies glorifying profanity, violence and illicit sex, and with

music promoting rape, drugs, murder, suicide and satanic themes - and we said it's just entertainment, it has no adverse effect, nobody takes it seriously anyway. School board members said, since teenagers will be teenagers, let's give them all the condoms and pills they want, so that they can have all the fun they desire, a.'1d we won't have to tell their parents they got them at school. We have lived as if God were a re_~.~,fer all our greatness, we were not without sin. God favored us, as He favored Israel, and we strayed from Him. Now, please do not misunderstand me. I am not suggesting that God brought about or caused this unspeakable evil as a punishment for the sins of the nation. But I am saying that God, in His infinite wisdom and mercy, often permits evil and even uses it in order to bring about a greater good. Anyone with even a sketchy familiarity with the Scriptures can see this. Just as God used Syria and Babylon and Egypt to teach the Jews of old a lesson, to bring them back to the covenant when they strayed, so perhaps He will use this national tragedy to bring us to our moral senses. You see, God would not be the Creator were He simply to abandon His work to blind destiny -tike an architect who hands over a house when it is ready to be occupied and then has nothing more to do with it. God is the Creator, our loving Father, not only because He determines the beginning of all things, calls them into being out of nothing, but also because He sustains them in being and guides them to their final end. All creatures, even those who tum away from God, remain entirely in His hand. Let's not forget that the prodigal son did not return to his father for noble motives. He returned to the father because he ran out of money, because he was no longer happy. And what happened? The father received his son with an embrace, and gave him a new life. What good is God bringing out of this evil? What is the new life we as a nation are being offered? How many tilT1es have we heard and said this week that things have been put in perspective: so much of our former concerns and pursuits are now recognized as so trivial. Family 路ties are stronger. Our nation has never been more united. Nothing is being taken for granted anymore. Folks have resolved to take to heart St. Paul's admonition to the Ephesians, "Do not let the sun go down on your anger." Who has not been moved by the overwhelming heroism, selflessness and compassion dem-

STUDENTS AT the Muslim Academy of Central Rorida in Orlando pray for victims of terrorist attacks and their families. A U.S. bishops' representative in interreligious affairs urged Catholics to reach out to Muslim neighbors with friendship and support following the attaCks. (CNS photo from Reuters)

onstrated by so many people in the.face of this tragedy? And churches have never been fuller - at least not since the Second World War. Mysterious'ly;then, eVen man's evil deeds do not fall outside of God's providence. In ways that He alone knows, He permits evil and

yet turns it, in the end, to good. good, in fact, 10 the best: We adore This mystery'reaches its peak in You, 0 Christ, and we bless You, the greatest evil that was ever because by Your haly Cross You done: not the Holocaust of the Jews have redeemed the world. May the good Lord see us nor the holocaust of the unborn, not eveollle inassftere ift-NewYork . throtigh this nati<>nal <:rucifiKion, and Washington, but the murder this "Good Friday," and 'resurrect of God's own Son on the Cross. from the ruins one nation, truly Our Father has turned this deed to under God.

.Father Paul A. Caron St. MarylOur Lady of the Isle, Nantucket September 12 Tim Russert, a faithful summer parishioner and head of NBC's Washington Bureau summed up the thoughts of many folks last evening when he responded to the question as to the significance of yesterday for our country and how it would be remembered. He responded very simply: He said: "We are forever changed as a people and a nation. We can never be the same people again." How true his words ring and continiJe to echo in our lives. We don't know what to say, lor we are numb. We want to talk about it, but we don't. A pastor I know in an inner city parish in Brockton touched this when he told his people that he simply did not know what to say. He had no answers, We are in a general malaise, for we know \hat we are now different. What has happened is beyond our capacity for understanding. It is the realization, one that we don't like to talk about in our own personal lives, that someone actually "hates" us. We all know people who might not like us, Ot perhaps might remember those "bullies" of our youth, or those who in a "flip" kind of way say they hate us, but its not real. This is real. If there was any innocence remaining in America, or a sense of naivete, that too has come crashing down with the World Trade Center and parts of the Pentagon. To what does this lead? Well, hopefully; the scriptures can help us in our attitUde as Christians. That's why we are here, that's why we need to listen. For when our bodies and psyches are no longer "numb;' the emotions need to go somewhere. So we come here and pray for the victims and theit families. We pray for

ourselves. We pray for our country. Hate and its ramifications are not contemporary problems, though, they have been ever present. We, however, are called to see the world with Christian eyes. The first reading -we had today was from Paul's letter to the Colossians. Hear the words, reflect on them. Paul tells us to set our hearts on what is abo,ve. He tells us to put to death all those things that take our hearts tlINay from that reallty.-He says we must put aside anger and quiCk temper, malice. He calls all people to Unity in Christ. The Gospel is Luke's version of the beatitudes. Hear the words, and reflect on tham. Hate, we don't like it, but we also need to remember it. When we. do "thaw" out, the emotion we cannot give in to is hate. Jesus tells us we cannot be that way. Hate begets hate, and anger begets anger. Even in the face of all of this we are called to gentleness and love. Our Lord also tells us that we must love our enemiesllmagine that! Pray for our enemies! Not easy, especially now. But that we must do. That doesn't mean we don't want justice to prevail. But it does mean to haVe justice without vengeance. We must also come together like this frequently to remember and be reminded of how we are to live our Christian life and to be nourished in word and sacrament. As we continue to pray for the victims, including our own friends and relatives, let us ask for the strength to continue to be true disciples of Christ and to follow the law of Love. May God bless us on our journey.

THEANCHOR-DioceseofFail River-Fri.• Seotember28. 2001

THEANCHOR-DioceseofFall River-Fri.• September 28. 2001

Father David M. Sharland, Y.A.

Father Richard E. Degagne Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Taunton September 15-16 ~

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events in the past dJree generations. - E~ which are Iife.dJanging; -eventswhichredirecttbecoun;e of world history; - events which cause us to reflect on our human capacity for greatness; - events which make us painfully aware ofour capacity for cruelty. These events are often brought back to our meroory with the question; ''Where were you when... T Where were you when Pearl Harbor was bombed? Where were you when Jack ~llll..-uy

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Where were you when we landed on the moon? Where were you when the Berlin Wall came down? We will he asking this same question for many years to come; Where were you on Tuesday morning, September II, 2OO1? When the first airjinercrasbed into the north tower of the World Trade Center, I had just turned off my radio and was preparing to come over to church forthe 9 a.m. Mass. When the secondairlinerstruek,Iwasprobably standing at the altar, signing the cross and calling the congregation to be reconciled with God and with one another. And as I walked into the rectory after Mass, the phone was ringing. Eileen Haggerty, knowing where I had been for the previous 40 minutes, had timed her call quite well to tell me, "Hurry and turn on the Tv." And of course, the rest of the story is just lik~ yoUrs J1ly atte.-1tl9n ri~~" to the televiSion, uilidile to'concentratio on anything other than the tragic events unfolding before oureyes. The horror we wilnessed reduced all other concerns to trivia We will be asking each other for manyyearstocome. ''Wherewereyou on Tuesday morning, the II" of SeptemberTButitdidnottakeournation too long to reflect on this catas1rophe before people were asking God the same question, ''Where were you'!' People interviewed on the street,

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the national prayer service on Friday in Washington. D.C. "Where were you, God?How could you letthis evil fall upon yourpeopleT Its amazing! Our readings this aftemoon/morningwerenotchosenspecifically for today. They are the regularreadings forthe 24" Sunday of Ordinary time which will be proclaimed in every Catholic church throughout the world. Every Catholic who comes to Mass this weekend, and many Protestants who attend services, will hear IVI~aM'It..Ull;;;":I.w;;;M,(Ull.

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some of his children have so terribly abused his gift of free will. What an amazing coincidence that our lectionary offers us these three parables from the Gospel of Luke for our reflection today. The shepherd who leaves his flock in order to search forthe one lostsheep; and the woman who lights a lainp and sweeps her whole house to find the single lost coin. What beautiful, and appropriate, and consoling images the Church !!ives us for our reflection! VY UI.111::::

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let this happen to your peopleT They will hear again the great story of the prodigal son. And they will hear St. Paul give thanks to God for the strength he has in Jesus. The question, ''Where were you, GodT has been voiced so many times by somany peoplein the lastfew days, and will most likely he asked by many for a long time to come. Its not a new question. It was uttered by Moses, 3,500 years ago. In our first reading from the book ofExodus, Moses confronted God: ''Why, God? Why, 0 Lord, should your wrath blaze up against your own peopleT One television newscaster interviewing aministerasked,''Can we say this was the will ofGodT One griefstricken woman speaking on television thought it might somehow be God's will that her husband is gone. And then, a popular television preacher on the '700 Club" announced that this

God left all the firehouses and p0lice stations throughout our nation to converge on lower Manhattan. "Where is God?" we ask. God is sorting through tons of rubble so thousands of families can grieve with some degree of certainty. GOO is in the acts of kindness which have been reported to us and the neverto-be counted generosity of people from all over the world. "Where is God?" we ask. God is in the embrace ofthe forgiving father who clutches his son close to himself. God is in the heart of that younger son who grows up the hard way; who comes to appreciate the good life he had taken for granted only after he experiences loss and suffering. God is in the confusion ofthe elder brother who asks his father, ''Where were you for meT God is in the father's reassurance to that son. "I have. been with you al-

edness of our age. . My dear people - THIS WAS NarTHEWILLOFGOD;andIdefy anyone who says that it was God's will that this disaster had to happen. This was not God's will,itwas human will. It was the will of deviant minds and conupt consciences who use God's Name for their own perverse political and personal ends. This was not God's will! God rejoices in our life and in ourfree will as human persons because that is God's .

ways." Our nation has suffered in a way as

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THE DAMAGED area of the Pentagon, where a hijacked commercial plan slammed into the building is seen in the early morning sunrise with the U.S. Capilol in the background. (CNS photo from Reuters)

never before. Friday - at the national prayer service convened by President Busb,Cardinal.McCanickofWashington, D.C. proclaimed the Beatitudes to all the world. He spoke with a great poignancy and emphasis, almost never looking at the page. - ''Blessed are the sorrowing;' addressed to a grieving nation so as to console us. . - ''Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for holiness;' to give us a desire to rise above the evil and seek a solution in the higher moral grouod. And then: - uBlessed are the peacemakers," addressed to our hearts as individual persons and to our spirit as a nation. When we fulfill our task as peacemakers, we will know the answer to thequestion, ''Where were you, God'!' This task will require a great deal more than military might ordiplomatic skill. We will only be successful as peacemakers when we don't feel Obliged to ask, ''Where are you God'!' We will have succeeded as peacemakers when we know that God is in us and we are in God. We will only be successful as peacemakers when we know, like St. Paul who can say, "I am grateful to him who has strengthened me, Quist Jesus our Lord" God has notahandoned us. Because foreverydes1royedlife, forevery grieving person, for every facet of this great tIlIgedy, and alllIagedies oflife, in every need ofevery person, God has not abandoned us. God is here, God is present to us. And on that day when we tace God at ourjudgement, we will not be asking God the question, ''Where were youT NO! On that day, the positions will be reversed. At that moment, God will be asking us: ''Where were you?"

C.S. Lewis once wrote: 'There is no use in talking as ifforgiveness were easy." We all know the old joke, 'You've given up smoking once; I've given itup a dozen times.' In the same way I could say of a certain man, 'Have I forgiven him for what he did thatday? I've forgiven him more times than I can count.' For we find that the work of forgiveness has to be done over and over again"("'The Quotable C.S.Lewis"). Where can we begin to talk about forgiveness this moming. The Gospel

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tack on our nation. It was in the regular cycle of readings for the 24" Sunday in Ordinary time, Year C. As we listened to this not-unfami1iarpassage on the forgiveness ofthe father shown to his prodigal son, some ofyou may be thinking, ''yeah, well the son was surry for what he bad done wrong and repented for his sins. Osama bin Laden and his fellow terrorists are not sorty for what they have done and have not repented, so there is no need to forgive them." The reality, though, is this. It is not about Osama bin Laden and his being SOrty. It is about Jesus' command to you and me to forgive others. God's unconditional love for us, shown most fully by his bountiful mercy and forgiveness, is not dependent on my being SOrty. God's model offorgiveness was shown to us on the cross: ''Father. forgive them, for they know not what they do:' Let's be sure, Jesus said that

thattbeBolyFatber,Jobn Paul, is aman wbo does not live in fear. He has seen the worst that man can be, and yet, he is at peace. How does he do itT George Weigel, author of "Witness to Hope;' the pope's biography, explains it this way: "The pope knows that the worst thing that could ever happen has already happened. God has already been killed. Nothing more horrible than that could ever take place. Yet from that horror, God brought forth an unpreeedenred gift of eternal life for us all.

need to refrain from hitting him, and finding a way to love him, instead. This all poinlsto tbe enormity ofGod's forgiveness to us. What you and I take to God needs tobethepartnotcoveredbyextenuating circumstances and excuses. For when the excuses end, there is still our sin. And that is what we must take to God. Lewis reminds us again: ''We are so very anxious to point these out to God (and toourselves) that we are apt to forget the really important thing; that is, the bit left over, the

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courage, be at peace, and remember that God, the Conqueror of Death, is still in control. Be not afraid!" When we think about the evil that took place on Thesday, righteous anger seems very appropriate. And it is. We should never forget this, though: "Christianity does not want us to reduce by one atom the hatred we feel for cruelty and treachery. We ought to bate them. Not one word of what we have said about them needs to be unsaid But it does want us to hate them in the same way in which we bate things in ourselves: being SOrtythe man should have done such things, and in hoping. ifit is anyway possible, that somehow, sometime, somewhere, he can becuted and made human again" (''The Quotable C.s. Lewis"). You know how we like to make excuses about why wedo things? Like, "Lord, forgive me for my lack of impatience wilth my kids. If only they

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what they were doing. They were crucifying an innocent man. Even ifthey really did notknow that he was the Son of God, it wouldn't diminish the fact that they killed an innocent man. This week, our president has spoken to us on several occasions. The president, on Thursday, wrote, We mourn with those who hove suffered great and disartrous Inss. All our hearts have been seared by the sudden and senseless taking ifinnocent lives. We prayforhealingandforthe strength to serve and encourage one another in hope and faith ... Scripture says: "Blessedare those who mournforthey shall be coniforted." We as American citizens, and we as Christians, can find encouragement in thewonlsofSaintPaul, ftrwe should trust that "neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers ... nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from the love ofGod in Jesus Christ our Lord" And that love, we are reminded again and again, is a love that shows itself most dynamically, is in forgiveness. It is the forgiveness ofan all-powerfuI, all-knowing God for his sinfu1 children. The kind of chi1dren that are often ungrateful for all that He gives them. It is the kind of forgiveness that has the Father siuingonthe frontporch, lookingout, waitingftr His errant sons and daughters to come back home to him. It is the forgiveness that allows a Father to forgive those who would kill his Sou, Hisoulybegotten Sou, and that He would not lash out in anger, but respond again and again with love, with forgiveness. I read on Wednesday, from one of

be fine:' We don't need patiencewhen our patience isn't tried. Or the kid who says in confession, sometimes, '1 hit my little brother, but he was bugging me." Would you hit your little brotherifhe wasn't bugging you?Ofcoun;e not. Butwhen be is bugging you is exactly the time that you

God, unforgivable" (ihid, p. 220).

Inexcusable, yes. But as God's Word reminds us, all our sins are for~!!

That is why we need God. That is why the prodigal son went back home. He needed the falber's forgiveness. He made no excuses. He simply went home, apologized, and asked for mercy and forgiveness. That is what you and I need to do with God. That is also what you and I need to do with our enemies. "Loveyourenemies. bless those that curse you, do good to those that bate you, and pray for those who persecute you;' (Mt 5:44). Love those who have attacked us. Bless those who want us dead Do good to those who have killed our brothers and sisters in New York, and Washington, and Pennsylvania Pray for those who lru1y hate us. Let us not be like the righteous, un. Jorgivil!&son, who alsa forgot. that he wa, the blessed son of the loving father. Instead, may we find the peace, cOnsolation and forgiveness that we need to love and forgive as our Father forgives us. Today when we pray the ''OurFather''mayitbeanhonestprayer offorgiveness to the Father who loves and forgives us without any condition.

my online discussion sources:

"As yesterday's events demonstrated, we live in a profoundly fallen world. It is easy, in such times, to be frightened. Many people have noted

MARY CONBOY and Gary Warner of Philadelphia pause to reflect at a memorial set up near the Pentagon. (CNS photo)

Father Marcel H. Bouchard Corpus Christi, East Sandwich September 15-16

THEANCHOR - Diocese ofFall River- Fri., September 28, 2001

"Bring your fears and grief

to the Lord," (This Mass helps people to grieve and moum,~ and to renew trust in God's presence and power.) I. Tuesday was indeed a dark day in our history, an appalling offense against peace, a terrible assault against human dignity. The horror, shock, and revulsion continue to drive us on to find consolation and peace. These terrible things have brought us face-ta-face with evil and have forced us to recognize just how powerful, pervasive, destructive, and murderous evil can be. ~ At the same time, these WORKERS ARE offered comfort andcoUilseling ataprayer events have moved us to ~ rec~ station set up at the World Trade Center disaster site in New ognized just how small our York assisting emergency personnel to deal with working at world has become because of ground zero. (CNS photo from U.S. Coast Guard via Reuters) modem communication, broadcasting, and technology. We Sister Dympna Smith, R.S.M. watched and heard while most Civic Observance at Mashpee Fire Department of it happened. (A Pentagon reSeptember 18 porter while commenting on tower attacks heard the attack Be not afraid. what we leamfrom September 11th althe Pentagon; we saw the secWe come as a community of in the year 2001. And so we pray... ond tower attacked while we faith to pray together. Our tragedy and we pray hant. I believe that the watched the first one bum; we is one week and nine haurs old to- tragedy of last Tuesday raises a saw them both collapse.) We on day. There is one image that per- questionfor each person here. This this sunny, calm lillie peninsula meales our mind. It is the image of is WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO jutting out into the ocean feel a cloud of srrwke thal hangs over DO ABOUT IT? especially close and vulnerable: l mean after the pain, after the two of the planes left an airport the city ofNew York. But the cloud isn't just over a city; it is over our shock. ajiertheanger, afterthe hurt about an hour from here. Two country and over our hearts. It is a and tears. It is so easy to cry in fighter planes were deployed cloud rhot represents all thal is evil their memory. WhatwiU we do about from the base that straddles twO and in a most profound sense all these lost lives in their memory? towns of our parish - unfortuthot is good. For the-cloud is:an ~.' ]l'UI()Cmtlives wee lost... people nate1)l too late to help. /li'fb! fiJlqiJestioned bizibans/n that who loved. .. people with family . And everybody knows someshows no care and no concel7l for friends... children... rrwms, dads . one who knows someone human life, human dignity and hu- brothers, sisters. People who had somehow involved: On Tuesman justice. hopes and dreams. Afuture. I would day I heard many stories about This past week we have heatrl suggest that ifthere is anyfitting re- people found to be safe, but and seen the anguish not only in spome to the shock ofthis tragedy it since Wednesday the stories the voices of the victims, but from is liFE. .. Your life, a life thal is lived have been about Cape resitheir families, friends, their com- better and life lived rrwre se/j1essly, dents, a priest who served in muniries, the country and the world a life that makes a difference, a life our diocese, people's friencls, What happenedon September II th that is hanest and decent. children of their friends who shall always be a pIlrt of our life We pray for those whose lives have perished. And, sadly, one and shall never leave the fiber of were lost. We pray that they might 01 our own - Gerry DeConto, our souL rest in the hands qfGod whose ten- a Navy Capt., is among the Buuhatsame cloudcarried with der love is without end and who it the breath ofevil is also the sym- carries these victims to be with Him hoi ofan incredible good that shines forever. We prayfor those who surthrough each ofour lives. For that vived and whose lives will forever cloud is also a symbol of the hero- be touched by the horror of their ism and bravery of so many experience. Today, as always on the Lord's firefighters, police officers, doctors, We pray jor all those charged Day, we gather to give honor and nurses, volunteers and clergy who with public safety, for firefighters glory to God. But weighing heavy fearlessly fought to bring to safety and police officers,jordoctors and on our hearts is Tuesday's attack so many who were hart and trapped nurses,forcountless human beings against the United States. Etched on in the carnage of that day. And whose work goes both unnoticed our minds are the tear-streaked faces sadly hEroism and their goodness and unappreciated and yeton whom of those still missing their loved cost so many of them their own we depend so very much. ones. Burned in our memories are lives. We prayjor President Bush and the heroic efforts ofthe women and This cloud is also a symbol of for all the leaders of our country men deployed in search and rescue. all those who survived this war of and all countries that they might We pray for those who perished. We our new millennium. For these we seek God's wisdom in struggling to pray for those who are injured. We . bring justice to this event. should be so very graJeful. pray for those who are providing Within each ofour hearts there We pray for ourselves that we emergency assistance. And we pray is pain and grief confusion and may never again take life for for our country. anger. I knOW that we want ven- granted, thalwemightneveragain The Gospel assigned to be pr0geance and retaliation. We want fail to show love to our spouses and claimed today is the same in all somebody to payfor this. And with- our children, our parents and our Catholic chuoches throughout the out any shadow ofa doubt, justice friends. world. 1 am sure there are Catholic needs to be served. But we must be We pray for our enemies that chuoches in Pakistan and Iran and very careful. For a heart governed God may touch their hearts and Iraq and Libya and Afghanistan. by hatred produces the kind of forgive their hatred. And for our They, too, are listening to the Gospeople who have inflicted this hor- country. May God continue to shed pel. We have no right to exchange it riftc wound in our lives. A heart His grace on us; May God mend for another. We must be fed by what that seeks to inflict pain becomes oUf ways from sea to shining sea, is placed before us on the table of cold to the leanings oflove and in- lead us through this terrible crisis the Word. What, then, does this parsensitive to the healing power of that willforever change our lives. ticular Gospel have to say to us? Be not afraid. reconciliation. And this cannot be How can it feed us?

missing in the Navy bunker just but eloquently: under where the plane crashed "Those who believe in God into the Pentagon. know that evil and death do not II. Fortunate are we who can have the final say. Ch ristian come here and be united by the hope is based on this truth; at power 01 our faith in the God 01 this time our prayerful trust all consolation - where else draws strength from it~ can we tum? To whom else can Why did this happen? I canwe tum? not answer this question. I/Vtroj The book of Revelation, from is it that every morning since which our first reading this Wednesday the first thing I do morning came, was written to is Put the 'TV on to see if this is give the vision of the future sal- a dream? Because of the unvation to a people who were speakable horror. Why are we undergoing great persecution here? Because over and over and suffering. The holy city, the again believers have experinew JerusaJem, God's dwelling, enced being found by God's was an image used to give love, more powerful than any them strength and hope, be- evil. cause there God would wipe Let us entrust the helpless -ii.Weiievery tear,therewouKlDe'ViCtlms -orthTS1mgedy1u;he--no more death or mourning, mercy of God. Through our wailing or pain. prayer, let us Iorge ~ spiritual This God is introduced to US closeness to the families of the in today's Gospel in terms of dead ancl the injured, and those tender but powerful character- missing. Let us pray lor strength istics:ThisistheGodintroduced and courage lor the survivors to us by Jesus as one who and the rescue-Wo.rkers and cares for his own with compas- other volunte9lS. Let'Us implore sion and love. This is'the God the Lord's Spirit to guide the that with persistence does the leaders of our country jn the work of finding the one who is ways of righteOUSlleSS. the lost sheep. This is the God Let us not point hateful, itOwho is almost obsessed with cusing, prejudiced fingers to sweeping the house until he those wlho are CllrlIIeCled to the finds what was lost. This it the perpetrators 01 this evil' solely prodigal God who runs out to by tone of skin, place of origin, meet us, and lill us on the wings language spoken, manner of of divine mercy, when we come dress, accent of speech. Letthe to him having exhausted every- terrible mistake 01 interning thing else. This is the God who Japane,se-Americans during goes out tlhe stubborn, of- the Second World war be a Iesfended older brother and be- son to us. Guilty persons do not seeches him to join the celebra- make a guilty race. Jesus has given.llS !his hution of love. It is up to us to open our hearts to the relief 01 being man-dMne ritual of the EuchaIound and the joy of IMng in the rist wlhere we can come together to own our neild, to let benevolence 01 such love. III. The beautiful wonder of it ourselves be fou'ld, to be nourall is that we who gather here ished by G<ld's WO!d, and to be believe this is possible in the filled with the love and very life midst 01 our worry, our anguish, of God. This gifllS m!gIlIierthan our pain. At his pUblic audience any and all evil, and will suslain Wednesday Pope John Paul II us. We trust in this, we count on put ouir1aith into words simply, this. Thafs wIhy we are here.

Father Timothy J. Goldrick St. Bernard, Assonet' September 15-16 Jesus tells three parables. They have a common structure. First. something ofgreat value is lost Secondly. those who have had something precious taken from their lives are in anguish. The shepherd, the housewife, and the rich man respond with a frantic search. Lastly, in the parables, what was lost is found. There comes relief and celebration. It seems to me that we are only at the beginning of this process we have lost something precious. We have lost our innocence as a nation. Our alabaster cities no longer gleam. dimmed as they are by human tears. All our emotions and inner powers are focused on our loss. Everything else is put aside. First we are shocked. Then we grieve and then comes anger. There must be anger if we are~ ever to heal of this wound. But it must be a righteous anger noi a sinful rage. It must be a holy not hateful anger. It must be anger directed not indiscriminately at a nationality, a mce, a religion, a

way of life, but anger against injustice. Our nation seeks, not revenge, but justice. Only after justice has been served, only then, there may come a time wben we are ready to move beyond justice to meocy. That is where the prodigal son stands - in a place of mercy. And then maybe we may even be able to move on to forgiveness. That is where the loving Fatber stands - in a place of forgiveness. But for us. the celebration of forgiveness can not even be imagined. We can not short-circuit the human process of healing. We are not ready to mOve beyond justice. Not yet Not nOW. Not here. So today as a nation we stand in the shoes of the elder son. We are angry. We want what is fair. We want what is ours. We want justice. In the Book of Ecclesiatics, the Bible says there is a time for everything. There is a time for peace and there is a time for war. This, sad to say, seems to be the later. May God bless America

Father John M. Santone, C.S.C. Holy Cross, South Easton' September 15-16 Over the centuries the cross has been an instrument ofexecution and a symbol of redemption. It's been used as a means of oppression and it's also been seen as a sign of hope. The cross has been the form by which criminals have been publicly punished from the times of Jesus to today. It's been used by an organization to promote hatred and racist views. Artists in paintings and sculptures have mocked it, and it's frequently been shown disrespect by its use in jewelry, music videos and advertisements. For Christians, the cross is a sign of hope. It's the means by which God's power was present and through which reconciliation with all people occurred. The cross stands over roadside shrines wh~re tragic deaths took place, thus inviting the passerby to offer a prayer. The cross hangs proudly in our homes to announce to those entering that a Christian, a follower of Jesus Christ, dwells in this place. It rises from church steeples beckoning to those near and far that this building is a place of peace, refuge ~nd love. The cross hangs around our necks not ~ jewelry, but as a reminder of who we are. The cross symbolizes both the act of redemption and the imitation of

Christ, whose followers are to take up their crosses daily. Today we celebrate the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. Our feast serves as a reminder that the cross of Christ's suffering became the very instrument that drove away darkness and brought in light. The cross of Christ conquered sin and brought us reconciliation. It was the cross ofGood Friday that led to the tomb of Easter morning. The cross, therefore, is something great and honorable. The cross is both the sign ofChrist's suffering and the trophy of his victory. It's the very symbol that stands at the heart of Christianity for because of it Christ won for us eternal life with God. In my home parish in Connecticut the crucifix hands proudly above the sanctuary. As you enter the church your eyes are immediately drawn to it. The crucifix is enormous, bulky and it hangs over the altar from a chain affixed to one of the beams in the ceiling. As a child I was always enthralled by it. During Mass I couldn't take my eyes off of it. It meant something, but I wasn't exactly sure what that was. It reminded me of Jesus' suffering, for there he was hanging on it in full view of everyone and at the same time just seeing it brought me tre-

mendous comfort. For me, it became like the security blaOket achild drags with them from infancy into the toddler years. The cross, in some indescribable manner, became my comfort and my hope. Today's first reading from the Book of Numbers tells us the story of the Israelite people who rebelled against God and Moses. They've traveled a great distance and have now reached the desert. They're patience is worn thin, they are tired of eating manna and they're probably sick of being around each other. In their frustration they "complained against God and Moses," and God reacts to their grumbling by punishing them. Eventually, they confess their sins and ask Moses to pray for them so "the Lord (will) take the serpents from (them)." God hears Moses' prayer and the serpent that was the death of them becomes the very symbol oflife. God tells Moses, "make a seraph and mount it on a pole, and if any who have been bitten look at it, they will live." The bronze serpent becomes a symbol of God's healing power, life and a sign of hope that their suffering will soon end. The cross, for Jesus, was a punishment imposed upon him by the people. They objected to his ·c1aim

Father Rob~rt C. Donovan St. John the Evangelist, Pocasset September 15-16 Words ... so many words have been spoken since early Tuesday morning ... words of surprise, shock and horror; words of worry and concern; words of pain and suffering; words of anger; revenge; and retaliation. We gather now for the Word of God and words of prayer. Pictures speak louder than words and our minds and our hearts are filled with the horrific images of the past week. The local and larger newspapers told us stories of losses and success, of estimates and the number of missing and presumed dead, of those that have been confirmed dead and the lUCky few but maimed who have made it out and to hospitals and safety. And The Boston Globe and The Cape Cod Times have begun to publish words of the obituaries. Special people have shared their wo"rds and their presence with us in the past week. Pope John Paul, with his frail manner and voice, prayed sincerely for America, for our healing, for the souls of those lost, for the comfort of the surviving families, for the police and fire personnel who are searching in the streets of New York City and within the broken walls of the Pentagon, for all humanity which suffers from this attack on America. Heads of state of the nations of the world stand with us in prayer and support. Queen Elizabeth stood with her nation as our national anthem was played outside of Buckingham Palace and Prince Charles paid a courtesy call on our embassy to sign a book of condolences. France, Germany, Italy, Russia, China,

Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Japan were among the many other nations that paused for silent prayer, offered words of compassion and support and some have announced plans to stand with us against these sins and acts of terrorism. A psychotherapist, speaking on EWTN's ''The World Over," program on Friday, stated that she feels that we individually and as a nation are dealing with something far deeper than horror or trauma; we are dealing with something that goes to our very quiCk. We, each of us and as a nation, were vulnerable in a way we never knew. We have been attacked and our very lives might never be the same again. Personal or civil freedoms, our financial status, our relationships with other people ... all these and more have been shaken and may never be the same again. And so we gather for our Lord's Day liturgy. We gather to praise and thank God for giving us life. We thank God for affording us salvation. For giving us direction and the light of faith that we may find the way. We ask God to stay with us in the days, weeks and years ahead. My message on last weekend of what would life be like for us if we had no faith, no hope, no God -loving Father, Redeeming Son and gUiding Holy Spirit, stand even more clearly in the present, for we would be truly broken and lost ... as individuals and as a nation. We need to live and deal with life one day at a time in the present and near future. We need to think clearly and not

overreact as individuals ·or in groups or mobs. We need to stand for and by our true beliefs as a people, as a nation, as a human family. On Thursday at City Hall Plaza in Boston, religious leaders gathered to address some 15,000 who were gathered there and to address us as well. These men and women who spoke or sang words of faith were Catholic, Christian, Jew, Muslim and other; they were of many nations and races, cultures and ethnic backgrounds. But their words, prayers and messages had a' common theme: We all worship the one true God in various ways and languages, and our individual and collective worship has a bold and unified message: That what went on that Tuesday in the United States of America was wrong and a sin against God and against all religion, against humanity itself. The words of our national documents, The Bill of Rights and The Constitution, call us to stand tall,united as a people' and as a nation. They call us to defend ourselves and to expect justice, to work for justice in this present situation. We are not weak; we must be strong. We may never be the same again as we were before last September 11, but we must still be the very best we can be. . The Word of God calls us to tum away from depravation and evil. Our loving God will once again reach out to us in kindness and relent in punishment. Christ came to save each and everyone of us. We in turn must return to our Father that He might shower His love upon us.

THEANCHOR-DioceseofFall River-Fri., September 28, 2001

that he was the Son of God sent to us. It's normal for us to take the redeem sinners. The cross became easy way out and demand what we the instrument by which the people think is justice for these crimes. voiced their protest .against the per- Instead, our faith asks us to be son of Jesus. Eventually though the people ofhope and forgiveness even cross also became a symbol of life. in the face of pain. It asks us to As Jesus hung upon it his attention view life as Jesus did as he endured was not focused upon his pain and suffering and death. The crucifix, humiliation, but rather upon the souls which hangs proudly in the center of the people before him. He cried of our sanctuary, reminds us of our out from the cross, "Father forgive personal suffering and our national them for they know not what they suffering this week. It also reminds are doing." Instantly, that cross be- us that we have enough faith to came a symbol of God's healing' overcome our pain and difficulties power as the sins of the world were in order to find new life. What does the cross mean to forgiven through the sacrifice of Christ the Son. The cross stood you? Is it an instrument of execuproudly as a sign of life for it was tion and oppression? Is it a decorano longer the objectJesus died upon, tion we love to hang around our but rather the very thing he was vic- necks? Is it a symbol of redemptorious over. The cross was now a tion and freedom? Is it a sign of sign of hope that suffering would hope? The cross should be a visible reminder of God's love for us, eventually end. This week our country has bome Jesus' willingness to take on human the weight of the cross. On Sep- form in order to humble himself tember II thousands of innocent for our sake and the salvation won Americans were killed in a series for us by the blood of Christ. The of terrorist attacks that left our cross is our only hope and faithcountry in stunned silence. In the fully bearing it in our lives is the early hours of the morning planes only way we can come to perfecwere hijacked, crashed into promi- tion and enter eternal life with God. "We adore you, 0 Christ, and we nent landmarks and lives were turned upside down. Loved ones bless you, because by your holy were taken from us and our coun- Cross you have redeemed the try was no longer safe. The blue world." skies ofthis beautiful summer morning were suddenly filled with clouds Montie Plumbing of smoke rising from the devasta& Heating Co. tion below. The rubble and blood Over 35 Years of our brothers and sisters who of Satisfied Services were the innocent victims marked Reg. Master Plumber 7023 our streets. It's easy to be filled with JOSEPH RAPOSA, JR._, .. , \ " \ . "'" ',t' • . hatred. It's natural to want 1'etalia- . tion and punish those who've in- .. 432 JEFFERSON STREET FALL RIVER 508-675-7496 flicted this unacceptable pain upon

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"Dear Children! Also today I call you to prayer, especially today when Satan wants war and hatred. I call you anew, little children: pray and fast that God may give you peace. Witness peace to every heart and be carriers of peace in this world without peace. I am with you and intercede before God for each of you. And you do not be afraid because the one who prays is not afraid of evil and has no hatred in the heart. "Thank you for having responded to my call." OUR LADY QUEEN OF PEACE GROUP

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THE ANCHOR - Diocese ofFall River - Fri., September 28, 200 I

Catholic Press Association's Catholic Bestsellers List for October 2001 Hardcover Catechism." Alfred McBride I. "God Underneath." Ed- (Our Sunday Visitor) , 2. "Making Things Right." ward Beck (Doubleday) 2. "The Holy Longing." Jeannine Timko Leichner (Our Sunday Visitor) Ronald Rolheiser (Doubleday) 3. "Because Nothing Looks 3. "The Lamb's Supper." Like God." Lawrence and Karen' Scott Hahn (Doubleday) 4. "Hail Holy Queen." Scott Kushner (Jewish Lights) Hahn (Doubleday) 4. "Called to His Supper." 5. "Catechism of the Catho~ , Jeannine Timko Leichner (Our lic Church." (Our Sunday Visi- Sunday Visitor) tor) , , 5. 'Ten Good Reasons to be 6. "She Said Yes." Misty a Catholic." J. Auer (Liguori) Bemall (Plough) 6. "My Bedtime Book of 7. "Mornings with Henri Saints." F. Lee (Liguori) J.M. Nouwen." Evelyn Bence 7. "Where Is God?" (Servant) Lawrence and Karen Kushner 8. "Lives of Service." Jim (SkyLight Paths) Daniels (Orbis) 8. "Where Does God Live?" 9. "Breakfast with the Pope." Gold and Perlman (SkyLight Pope John Paul II (Servant) Paths) 10. "Quiet Moments with Pa9. "God Lives in Glass." Robdre Pio." Patricia Treece (Ser- ert J. Landy (SkyLight Paths) vant) 10. "God's House." Ellen Paperback ·Javernick (Pauline Books and I. "Catechism of the Catho- Media) lic Church." (Doubleday and Spanish-language I. "Catecismo de la Iglesia' Our Sunday Visitor) 2. "Behold, He Comes." Catolica." (Our Sunday Visitor Benedict Groeschel (Servant) and Doubleday) 3 "Ret r of the P od'gal 2 "J t P 'T' d I V'd" . u n I' I . un os ara I? a ~ I~. Son." Henri J.M. Nouwen Josep~,M. Cha~phn,,(Llguon) 3. En PelJgro. Johann (Doubleday) th e F al'th W'th Ch' 4 . "Sh' anng _, : I nstop h A mo.Id" (PI oug h) ,Yo.ur Ch!ld." <::hahdler;&Bliriley.;;<;·;"4~;~'~a'Vita;ieri' Cristo." We(Llgu~,f1) .. I" bel', KJllgall?n, .Place, Maletta (ACTAPubhcatlOns) 5.. ~?me, H~ly SP1f1~. ~ofle Simmons (Liturgy Traln5. "Lo Que Usted Debe SaIng) , bel' Sobre los Sacramentos." 6. "Catholic Source Book." Charlene Altemose (Liguori) Peter Klein (Harcourt Religion 6. "Concilio Vaticano II Publi~hers) Documentos." (Pauline Books 7. "Living the Catholic and Media) , Faith." Charles Chaput (Ser7. Lo Que Usted Debe Saber vant) Sobre la Misa." Charlene 8. "Where Is That in the Altemose (Liguori) Bible?" Patrick Madrid (Our 8. "Guia para los Sunday Visitor) Proclamadores' de la Palabra." 9. "We Be lieve ..." Oscar Aelred Rosser (Liturgy Training) Lukefahr (Liguori) 9. "Respuestas Catolicas a 10. "Life in Christ.'~ Weber, Preguntas Fundamentalistas." ,Killgallon, Place; Maletta St: Romain (Liguori) ~(ACTA) 10. Manual Para la Familia Children and Young People ' Catofica Hispana de Hoy." R. I. "Father McBride's Teen M' h d ( L " ) arc an IgUOfl. ---------.:.-.-----------

: MARIAH C~REY stars with Max Beesley'in a film about a young singer's big Qreak· in the newly released "Glitter." For a brief review of.thi,s film" see .CNS. movie capsules on this page. (CNS photo from Twentieth Century. Fox)

CNSmovie capsulesNEW YORK (CNS) - Following are recent capsule reviews of movies issued by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops'Office for Film and Broadcasting. "The Glass House" . (Columbia) Thriller in which a suddenly orphaned brother and sister are sent to live with former neighbors (Stellan Skarsgard and Diane Lane) whom the sister (Leelee Sobieski) comes to suspect may have caused her parents' deaths. As directed by Daniel Sackheim, ominous visuals and fine performances add to the suspenseful narrative, which falters in a melodramatic final flourish. Some violence, a sc~ne of drug addiction and minimal profanity. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification is A-IIIadults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 - parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. "Glitter" (20th Century Fox) Pathetic musical drama set inthe 1980s NewYorkC?ityclub ' scene th.at tracks t~e nse of a young sl~ger (Manah <?arey) from a childhood spent In foster homes to her discovery by a disc jockey (Max Beesley) and on to ultimate fame. Along 'th . d' t' . h bl .. I WI In IS IngUis 't'f I a et'onglnad

the disturbing ending adds little to its message of overcoming obstacles. A tragic death, brief gunplay, a few menacing scenes of fisticuffs and recurring crass language with fleeting profanity. The U.S. Confer- I ence of Catholic Bishops classification is A-III - adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 - parents are strongly cautioned. Some material may beinappropriate for children under 13. "Liam" (Lions Gate) Extraordinary Depressionera tale depicts the trying circumstances of a poor Catholic family in Liverpool that push the

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tor Vonqie Curtis Hall's leading lady has no charisma to pull off the vanity vehicle. An implied sexual encounter brief violence and some 'crass language. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification is A-III - adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 - parents are strongly cautioned. Some mater.ial may be inappropriate. for children under 13. "Go Tigers!" (IFC) Spotty documentary tells the true story of a small town'~ high s?hool football team. dunng a plvot~1 season, focusln~ on th~ team s three co-captains. DI~ector Ken C~rlson reveals the Intense passion the blue-collar townsfolk feel toward the team without stooping to condescension, but their obsessive enthusiasm and the extended game highlights may appeal most to hard-core gridiron fans. A scene of underage drinking and recurring rough language with some profanity. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification is AIii - adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R - restricted. "Hardball" (Paramount) Prosaic story of a compulsive gambler (Keanu Reeves) who is forced to repay a loan by coaching a Chicago innercity Little League team. The time-worn plot in director Brian Robbins' film has its moments, mainly in the natural perto'rmances of the child actors, but

patriarch (Ian Hart) to join the Fascist party, leading to tragic consequences. Through the eyes of the seven-year-old title character (Anthony Borrows), director Stephen Frears relates a more universal story about the loss of innocence and the roots of intolerance' in a passionate drama filled with humor and affection. A scene of violence, an implied affair, brief full nudity, an instance of rough language and fleeting profanity. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification is A-III - adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R - restricted.

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THE ANCHOR - Diocese of Fall River - Fri., September 28,2001

Attleboro

Continuedfrom page one

then Bishop James L. Connolly gave Father Chabot and his new assistant, Father Roger Gagne, permission to initiate construction of a new church. Groundbreaking took place in the spring of 1956. The first Mass in the new church building was celebrated on April 21, 1957. The dedication and solemn blessing of the church by Bishop Connolly took place a month later, on the eve of the canonization date of St. Theresa. During the 1950s and 60s, the

parish continued to flourish and remain vibrant with the advent of groups such as the St. Theresa's Holy Name Society, the Confraternity of Christian Mothers, the St. Vincent de Paul Society, the Knights of Columbus, and a very active and successful CYO program for the younger parishioners. In T969, the provincial of the Sisters of the Holy Cross announced that three of their order would be assigned to St. Theresa's, where they would live' and supervise the CCD program.

St. Vincent at St. Vincent's have experienced trauma and loss in their lives and have felt helpless. "Our children want to help, and with these car washes we hope they can feel that they are making a difference," Weldon noted. "By allowing them to do something to help others, they value themselves more and are giving of themselves, which is both a valuable lesson and a rewarding experience." Car washes began last weekend, and another car wash will be held tomorrow at St. Vincent's Westport Campus, 573 Adamsville Road, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Also on the working agenda is a sponsored blood drive to be held in coming weeks under the direction of the Red Cross. All staff members at St. Vincent's are encouraged to participate and more details will be announced. As it has for several years, St.

Lecture

Shortly after, Father Edmond The sisters would remain part of Levesque became pastor. the St. Theresa's family for 15 During Father Levesque's tenure, he made a number of needed years. . Also in 1969, Father Chabot renovations, including a new was invested as a Monsignor, and roof and sewer system and a reconstruction began on a new par- vamped kitchen. ish center that was completed in In July of 1990, Father Louis September of 1970. R. Boivin was named pastor of Father Roger Levesque served St. Theresa's until 1994, at which the parish from 1973 to June, time Father Robert F. Kirby suc1975, at which time Father Ri- ceeded. In 1997, ill health forced chard Roy arriyed on the scene. Father Kirby's retirement in Father Roy remained at- St. 1997, and.in September of that . year, Father David M. Andrade Theresa's until 1981. On February 1, 1983, the be- was temporarily assigned to St. loved Msgr. Chabot passed away.

Continued from page one

Vincentls will again participate ih Make A Difference Day, on October 27. Several of the home's community service projects will have a focus on supporting national relief efforts. St. Vincent's will also be placing a Peace Pole near the chapel on its Fall River campus. The pole will be a symbolic representation of the children's and staff's wishes for worldwide peace. The carved pole will have words of peace in many languages etched in it. It will be erected dur~ ing a thoughtful ceremony of hope and everyone will be invited to plant flowers around its base. It will hopefully provide a focus of hopefulness and peace throughout the unknown unfolding of events in coming months. , Last, but not least, St. Vincent's has raised its Children Memorial Flag, which represents those children who have lost their lives, in honor of the children who were

killed during the September 11 attacks on America. The Memorial Flag remained raised as long as the American Flag was flown at half-mast, school officials said. Established in 1885 as an orphanage, St. Vincent's Home has become a comprehensive residential treatment and special education center for children and adolescents, one of the largest in Southeastern Massachusetts. Licensed by the Massachusetts Office of Child Care Services, the agency helps youngsters who have been abused or neglected to heal from trauma and gain the education and life skills they need to achieve productive lives. At the same time the services are seen to restore hopeto children with a wide range of difficulties who live each day with the hope of returning to a family.

Continued from page one

"We felt that the average Catholic was making life and death decisions with basically no moral background," McManmon said. "Based on what we saw were crying needs we went to the area's bishops and generally given the go-ahead to go ahead." Besides the courses for the Fall River diocese, others will be given in the Diocese of Providence in Rhode Island, and the Diocese of Worcester. Among a cadre of people working to 'get the message out to parishes, schools, and healthcare organizations and the public in general is Joseph H. Feitelberg and his wife Sheila. "We believe that the key to success of this series lies in the parishes," Mr. Feitelberg said. "This is not intended to be for medical professionals, but almost exclusively intended to be for laity, including young adults, who are going to confront the kinds of situations the lectures will address, and who really need to be informed Catholics, and well as anyone else who wants to attend." Feitelberg said the intent on getting four national speakers was to get as informed speakers as possible.

"The focus of the ground work and broad-based outreach is to get parishes to participate, to contact pastors and make them aware and get them brochures, handouts and get the word in parish bulletins in order to get as large a turnout as possible," he added. Working in hand with the Diocesan Chancery Office as well as several other diocesan offices, the p.lanners hope to contact schools, agencies and those involved in healthcare to make known the opportunity for learning Catholic teaching on the issues of the day. Father O'Donohoe, a priest of the Arch<;liocese of Boston, received his doctorate in canon law from the University of Louvain in Belgium in 1954, and is a frequent lecturer on health care ethics locally and nationally. His talk will highlight suffering, resuscitation, advance directives, euthanasia, moral choices,and the double-effect principle. Father Vacek holds a doctorate from Northwestern University and licentiates in Sacred Theology and philosophy and has taught and lectured at more than a dozen colleges and universities. He will address such issues as the

natural law, compassion, cultural influences, sacredness of human life, and reason. Dr. Klofft, of Marlboro, holds many degrees including a doctor-' ate and licentiate in Sacred Theology from The Catholic University of America. He will discuss procreation, sterilization, fertility, contraception, homosexuality and pre-marital relations. Baker, vice president of bioethics at the Boland Company, is also nursing supervisor at Martha's Vineyard Hospital and on the staff of Norwood Hospital. She has master's degrees from Harvard Divinity School, the New England Baptist Hospital School of Nursing, and has several licenses and certifications. She will talk on pain management, palliative care, health care proxies, bedside care, extraordinary means and "real problems." The doors at Connolly High School will open at 6 p.m., for snacks and talk. The speakers will begin at 7 p.m., and their talks will be followed a period of questions and answers.

For more information and to reserve a seat call Lisa Gulino, Adult Education, at 508-6782828 or FAX 508路674路4218.

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There'sa's until current pastor Father Fahey took over. Through the years, St. Theresa.of the Child Jesus Parish produced two priestly vocations: Oblates of Mary Immaculate Father Lucien Bouchard, who served the missions in Laos and South America; and Father Gerard A. Hebert; current pastor of St. George's Parish, Westport. Father Hebert celebrated his very first Mass at St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Church on June 7, 1981.

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SUNDAY HEALING SERVICES WITH MASS - 2:00 p.m. September 30 English October 7 Spanish (2:~0) October 14 Portuguese October 28 English WOMEN AS CAREGIVERS A Workshop with Christine ~omen Saturday, October 6 - 9:30-4:00 / Theater Pre-registration / $30 Donation CHARISMATIC DAY OF PRAYER .With Father Richard Lavoie, 1\1;.S. Saturday, October 20 - 10:00-4:00/ Theater Pre-registration / $30 Donation COFFEE HOUSE - SAT. AT 6:30 September 29 - SPIRIT October 20 - WAYWORD Cafeteria Good-will donation (Cafeteria serving dinner till 6:30) CHANGE IN SCHEDULE October 22 to 26 - Monday to Friday Masses will be at 12: 10 p.m. only. There will be no Confessions and no evening Masses due to a La Salette Provincial gathering. JOHN POLCE: BETHANY NIGHTS Friday, September 28 & October 26 - 7:30 p.m. Church - Good-will donation WOMEN AND DEPRESSION A Workshop with Christine Homen Saturday, November 3 - 9:30-4:00 Pre-registration / $30 Donation PHONE 508-222-5410 E-MAIL: ls.P&J1l8office@juno.com WEBSITE: http://lasalette.shrine.tripod.com FAX: 508-236-9.096 RETREAT HOUSE SCHEDULE AFTE~OON

OF REFLECTION GODIS PATIENT. ARE WE? Sunday, October 14 -1:00 to 5:00 , Pre-registration - $20/ $25 at the door PHoNE508-222-8S30 E-MAIL: lasaIett@ma.ultranet.com WEBSITE: http://www.ultranet.coml-Iasalett FAX: 508-236-9089

14 THE ANCHOR -

Diocese of Fall River - Fri., September 28, 2001

JOUR CATHOLIC SCHOOLS •

OUR CATHOLIC YOUTH

Bishop Feehan students organize projects

SONS AND DAUGHTERS of alumni who attended Bishop Connolly High School, Fall River, show off the'ir colors during the opening week of school. The school Qpened the year with its largest fr~shmen class in more.than a decade. With students is new alumni coordinator Anne Ma~ieFayan.

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togtdher." '.' ',' temoon of September 11, folThe theme of offering prayers lowing the horrific terrorist at- for the victims and their families tacks on our country, students continued at the official opening from Bishop Connolly High of school liturgy later that week. School gathered in their audi- In solemn tones, the names of the torium and did the only thing dead and missing who were they could. They prayed. Led known to the Connolly commuby school chaplain Father Roger nity were read. Students wearing Landry, students, faculty and ribbons of red, white and blue staff came together as a com- sang "God Bless America" and ofmunity and celebrated the Eu- fered prayers for a just response, ·charist. love' and peace. "It was the best way that we, . The school year at the high as a community of faith, could school opens with its largest do something positive to help at freshman class in 15 years and that moment," said admissions it has experienced a 10 percent director Jim L'Heureux. "We growth in the school's overall were all in shock at the unspeak- population. able events unfolding across our '!We're excited to welcome nation and we needed to come the class of 2005 to Bishop

Connolly High School," said principal Anthony Nunes. "Their energy and enthusiasm is already quite evident as a great number of them have already become involved in athletics and extra-curricular activities." Anne Marie Fayan, alumni coordinator, noted that 46 families of alumni have sons and daughters attending Connolly this year. "It's most gratifying to see members of the alumni sending students back to Connolly to receive the same quality education they had," said Fayan. FOf students and parents interested in Bishop Connolly, an open house will be held November 7 from 6:30-8:30. p.m.

Fayan named new. alumni director .at Connolly FALL RIVER - Principal lenge. "My goal is to enhance the Anthony Nunes of Bishop relationship between Bishop Connolly High School. recently Connolly High School and the announced the appointment of . alumni and to reinforce the inteAnn Marie Fayan to the position gral role they continue to play in of alumni director for the scJtool:. ,Qur community." . Fayan has bee? a faculty me~ber . ,Her first projeet is the orgasince 1981 and holds a bachelor nization of a grand reunion for of science degree in mathematics the classes of 1971,'76, ,81, from Salve Regina University and '86, '91, and '96 at the Abbey a master's iD mathematics from Grill November 23. Members of Worcester Po]ytcchnical Institute. those graduating classes should Fayan currc:'t;v serves as trca- contacl ~~ayan til! 'ugh the ':.trer of th~' ;.~~:1:C; of trustees'at schooi'.- ''':::velonr;;?'' '-"ice at :':ctonAcade'-" 0',;· ~"irls an(~ :::0 508-6' " .-76 ..:;'; '... .,il at: -,he is lookir::: ;' \ . rJ to the .. afavar:.~ \.:.;:~_ ::~,,~:., ":1..

ATTLEBORO Bishop Feehan High School's class of 2002 is organizing a project entitled "Overnight Bags for Children in Foster Care," and currently seeks donations of items such as travel bags, travel-sized personal items, hair brushes, journals, small stuffed animals and anything that makes a difficult, emotional situation easier. Seniors will provide foster children with an overnight bag and these personal items to help children arrive in foster homes with a sense of dignitY. Ofteri times children go from foster home to foster home carrying belongings in a trash bag or with just the clothes on their ~ack when placed if) foster ,care. To contribute contact

Sheila Haskins at 508-226-6223. On Tuesday the senior members of the National Honor Society hosted its annual Mercy Tea at the Our Lady of Mercy Convent. It is an opportunity for students to say thank you to the sisters for all they have done over ~he years for Bishop Feehan. Members of the National Honor Society baked pastries, served tea and presented each sister with a small gift of appreciation. The Christ Closet of Bishop Feehan will open on October 5 from 9 a.m. to noon providing free clothing to those in need. Donations are collected daily at the back doors of the' c;lfeteria. For more information call'Carla Tirrell at 508-226-6223.

priorities rearranged By AMvWELBORN CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE For weeks, perhaps. months, my oldest son had been looking forward to a particular football game. This game was part of a great rivalry that he was very interested in as a student at one of the universities. .

parents bum and collapse. You saw hundreds - thousands - of people forget about everything else, drop their daily routines and worries, and rush to help in any way they could. You were probably one .of those people, whether you gave blood, or a little cash or lots of

He was primed . r=~==~::------I prayers. for it, ready to go, ~~ Smoke bilnot just as a spec'-~I lowed out for days tator but as part of from the rubble of a media crew helpthe World Trade ing to film it for C.enter and .the his college's athPentagon. In a letic department. field in PennsylWin or lose, it FOR TOOT" • RBOUT TOUT" vania, a plane left was going to be nothing but an one of the most exciting weekends ugly gash burned through the earth. of his life so far. Within an hour, as you watched these Then September II came. And horrific things 'on the television at passed. And for days, smoke billowed school, several things probably beout from a mass grave in Manhattan. came very clear to you. The game, of course, was canLife is precious and precarious. celed. But even before that, my son There is more to the shadows of suddenly, unimaginably, had be- this world than "differences of opincome indifferent to it. ion" or various lifestyles and opinI only spoke with him over the ions. There is right, and there is telephone and only in quick conver- wrong. Evil exists. sations before he dashed to class or I think I know what's important went back to work, so I couldn't see' now. his face. But I could hear it in his So in that moment, the strangest voice. , things happened: The motivation for Suddenly, life had shifted, and those petty spats evaporated. The with it priorities and a sense of what doings of mindless celebrities were was important: exposed as incredibly shallow. And Perhaps the same thing happened for the life ofyou, youcoul~n't think to you. of a single reason not to tell your parMaybe you'd been sp.ending a lot ents you loved them. , of time fretting about your appear'Ifyou're like my son, you couldn't ance or yOlJf weig~t:, Perhaps you care any less whether or not that footwere snipingb<lck and forth with other ball game ever got played at all. kids in school aboui webs of loyalty These are strange, perplexi'ng... , and friendship. Maybe:yoo were' sad and eveQfriihtening' times. spending a I~ of time reading and There's a lot of hard thinking, listhinking about the cofi1ings and go- tening and praying we all should be ings of a certain moVie, sports or doing, We're praying for peace, wismusic celebrity. Maybe you wcren't dom, justice, strength and peace speaking t6 0fJe or both ofyour par- once more.• cnts.. And with everything else, we're Then you planes dashed into praying that- we'll never, ever take the ground and into tuildil1g~. Y,,,: the gift of !;fe for P'~llh:,; u~::;ll. Be~a\v buildings. fillea \'.·jth p,,"en; '. '. ~,'~c ... : c" ,':.\,'.'!l;,{ \v<"'J,' "';:t';' ..' .·olhe.rs, sisters, friends :1rid.;: rar '

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Handling depression By CHARLIE MARTIN • CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE SUNBURN

The sky was dark this morning Not a bird in the trees And silence hung suspicious and anxious Like a blanket covered scream And you were gone, you were not there for me And I cursed the sky and begged the sun to fall all over me Refrain: This life's not living, baby Living ain't free If I can't find my way back to me Let the sun fall down over me Let the sun fall down All my friends are searching Quiet, desperately Look into their eyes you'll see the, faithless crying Save me, save' me, save me And what are they to feel? And who are they to feel? And who are they tq be? " And what am I to do with, do, with me But let the sun fall over me Repeat refrain. Until my eyes cry, out Til my head is free from _.. , ._.. _ Q9ubt., _ _. ._ .. Til my lungs sigh right out Til I'm wiser Let the sun fall all over me' Repeat refrain. Sung by Fuel Copyright (c) 1998 by Sony SSO/Epic Records I welcome requests from readers. This week's review comes as a suggestion from a teen in L"Ouisiana, She had a favorite Fuel song from 1998, before they began to receive national attention. I usually try to 'stay on the cur-

rent Top 100, but I'm pleased to respond to her request. The song "Sunburn" addresses something that most teens experience at times: being depressed about how life is unfolding. Disappointments are common to ev-

2. Take some time to notice the content of your depressive' thoughts. When you· think about the situation that prompted your depression, what are your thoughts? Write out your answers. Then ask yourself if there are other ways to view what has ocI 'II;f!J ~~. ~ curred. . ./.,.11 Y'VfI!!'.4u \ Depression tends to bring on tunnel vision. We tend to see only the evidence that supports our discouragement. When we take the time to look for information that does not line up with the voice of our depression, ·we are likely to discover a more balanced view of what has happened. The disappointment may be real, but the outcome may not be as negative as we first thought. 3. If your depression lasts more than a week or two, or if you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, hopeless or suicidal, seek out a counseling professio!1al. eryone. The guy, in the song is Suicide is the second leading depressed because someone cause of deaths among teens. Do dropped out of his life. not let depression lead you down He sings, "You were gone, you this path. Talk with an adult at were not there for me." He feels your school or in your parish. Ask ,this loss deeply. "I cursed the sky for the name of someone they and begged the sun to fall all over think can help you. deal with the me." pain in your life. Now, he sens~s that "this life's Or look in the phone book unnot living." He wonders wh,at he der "crisis intervention" or "menshould do. . tal health services." Almost every . Feeling depressed is always community lists a 24-hour andifficult. Yet, there are construc- . swering service that will connect tlve"ways to"approac"h thIS erno- . you with a counseling profes-, ' ' tion. If, like the character in the sional. 4. Ask God to guide you as you song, you feel down and d.i~cour~ aged abo':!t what is going on in face your depression. At times, all your life, consider these ideas: . of us feel as if we want the sun to 1. Don't try to ignore or bury "fall down over me." what you feel. Talk with someGod wants to help us get past one you trust about your feelings, depression. Then we can eventuThis is especially helpful when the ally rediscover the meaning and other person, doesn't automati- satisfaction that God placed in cally try to cheer you up but lis- life. Your comments are always tens with understanding and concern. Talking will help you break. welcome. Please address: through the sense of isol~tion that Charlie Martin, 7125 W 200S, depression brings. . , . Rockport, IN 47635.

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THE ANCHOR - Diocese of Pall River - Pri., September 28, 200 I

Youths at South Carolina rally celebr~te light of Christ By JIMMY ROSTAR CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

FORT MILL, S.C. - "Now that's a preacher," said a smiling teen to her friends as they descended from the bleachers in the Charlotte Hornets' Training Center in Fort Mill. She ~nd a thousand other youths from across the Carolinas and Georgia had just heard Father Paul Williams, a featured speaker at Power Rally 2001. The rally was a youth-focused event celebrating the "Catechism of the Catholic Church" and its themes on morality, the creed, the sacraments and prayer. Mostly, participants heard ways to shine as people of faith in a day seasoned with prayer, song, preaching and Mass. Youths gathered in Fort Mill ' from the local diocese, the Diocese of Charleston, but also from the dioceses of Charlotte and Raleigh, N.C.; the Diocese of Savannah, Ga.; and the Archdiocese of Atlanta. "God's way is achieving. life everlasting," said Father Williams, who serves in the Charleston dio- , cese. When the faithful give their lives to God, he said, they can become a light "shining 09. t~e hill" that helps those in darkness' "find their way." . Christian living requires a decision to give control to God, he said. Today's socie.ty is challenged by a' mentality that promotes power by allowing people to choose to live however they wish, the priest said', But in the life of a Christian believer, diff~rent rules apply, he added: "If you.want re~1 power,".'he said, "then go to Mass every single day and eat wo'rthily his flesh and drink worthily his blood. You will have power. You will have Christ's power," , , ' Father Willi!lms said it, is im-

portant believers focus on "not keeping our eyes fixed on MTV, not keeping our eyes fixed on BET, but on keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus Christ. "And if we do so," he continued, "we will have life everlasting, You and I are going to have to die for Christ by making a commitment to live for Christ. Unless we are willing to die, we will not live." Father Matthew Kauth, from the Charlotte diocese, helped the group celebrate the feast of the birth of Mary with a talk about the Blessed Mother's role in Catholics' lives. Father Matthew Leonar~, another Charlotte diocesan priest, shared personal insights about the faith journey. A ministry fair featured a host of resources oil Catholic ministries and institutions, while priests scattered throughout the facility during the event to hear confessions. Christian recording artist Steve Angrisano served as master of ceremonies during the event. "This was just awesome," said 'Scott Walters, spokesman for Good News Ministries of Charlot~e, whjclj SPOQSQfM..,th~ ~v~nt. "Thes~kids were just reaily'hungry for and open to what they experienced. We had eight statiOlls for confessions, and they just lined up. Bishop William G. Curlin of Charlotte presided at the Mass, which was concelebrated by a dozen other priests. "I challenge you to take Jesus seriously and make him the hallmark and rock of your life," Bishop Curlin sa,id in his homily. "I challenge you to take his words and to make them your own. I challenge you to take his mercy, his love an~ his cQmpassion, and make it yours." ..

This month's Youth Apostles'Youth Ministry seminar is:

''Teaching the Tough Stuff: \

Life & Death, Morals & More" Where: Conference Room, St. Anne's Shrine, Fa]1 River (Lower level of Rectory - enter green door off parking lot-follow' the signs © ) ,i . ': When: Thesday, October' 2, 2001 ,. , 7: IS" p:in. E'vehing Prayer ',:'" . 7:30 Mass in Rectory Chapel 8:00 Seminar in Rectory Conference Room

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A YOUNGSTER from St. Vincent's Home, Fall River, draws in business at a recently held car wash. The children of St. Vincent's Home are raising funds to help chi,ldren in New York who were affected by the September 11 attacks. Full story appears on page one.

Presenter: Mary Pat Tranter, Ph.D., Director of Guidance, Coyle and Cassidy High School For: Youth Ministers, Teachers, ReI. Ed. Volunteers, Parents, Priests Info: Youth Apostles 508-672-2755

THEANCHOR- Diocese ofFall River~ Fri., September28, 2001

'Sister Moms' a calling out of ~he ordinary .<

walked that route:' The reason she wanted to tell her story is so that : OSTERVItLE - Being a mother andgrandmother others with a background like her's will fealize there is and serving as a' religious sister is nothing' new in the much for them to do with their lives. Church and it appears the concept is gaining momen'"A vocation to the religious life is always open to tum. them. after a marriage. or a divorce and annulment and "St. Elizabeth Ann Seton wasn't the first married also for women who are single - and no longer young women to later become a nun - there were many, be- people in their teens and20s- who now later in life fore her - and with 150 of us "Sister Moms" now want to serve God as a religious;' SisterJane explained. serving, I think the idea is starting to flourish again;' ''For those deciding whether they want to follow a said Holy Union Sister Jane E. Sellmayer. religious'vocation we will meet with them and talk and "A lot of the orders in the 1600s and 1700s were prayer with them. no matter what religious organizafounded by widows and of course men had been doing tion they are interested in;' she said it longer," she added.. Butthose aspiring to be Sister Moms can't join the "Sister Morns got started in the 1990s with Sister of group until they have entered the novitiate, she exCharity of Nazareth Bea Keller of Louisville, Ky., an~ plained. other women who before becoming religious had been "Most of us are grandmothers;' she said laughing. married and mothers, and since then it has grown until Just returned from the third annual Sister Moms now there are more than 150 of us in the United States, . Gathering at the' Benedictine Community of St. Canada and Australia from many different religious Gertrude. in O>ttonwood. Idaho, Sister Jane noted that orders and congregations," Sister Jane'explained some ofthe :members were from religious communiHer entrance into the life of a professed sister took a ties she had never heard of before. route she said was similar to many of her colleagues. The nextannual meeting on ideas is slated to be held A native ofLong Island, N.Y., and a registered nurse in Groton this year. . having graduated from St. Mary's Hospital School of "And we're thinking of ~ doing a gathering N~ing in Rochester, N.Y., she was happily married to ' for those in the East Coast Region in 2002. The annual the late David Sellmayer, a food service supervisor.'They gathering of siSter Moms in 2005 will be held at the moved to Mansfield in 1969 and David died in FebruHoly Union Sisters St.-JaineS Convent at Nanaquaket ary, 1987. in· TIverton; RI:' ,', " "So I now call Mansfield home," she said. As to future vocations to tbesisterhood, Sisredane Sister Jane has three children, daughter Mary E. said she sees the ,religious life,its "alive aI).d well, and Sellmayer-Smith of North Attleboro, a son, Britton things are looking up. I see the future vocations, and Sellmayer of Mansfield, recently married; and.daughmany of them. will be coming from older women." ter Marta Sellmayer-Paquin also of Mansfield Sister Sellmayer held up two silver pieces ~I:!e wears "And I'm grandmother to five grandchildren;' Sison.chains around her neck. One is her cross.as: a pro- . ter Jane says with a wide smile. . fessed Holy Union Sister. ", After her husband's death, Sister Jane said she be"This otherone is my husband's wedding'band. I try gan having thoughts of the religious life. to wear them together to show the wide family that I '1 rememberhaving ideas ofa religious vocation when I was in high school, but I was advise<i by a priest I knew .' belong to." fairly well that marriage was perhaps the best road for ""----'-::'1 me at the time;' Sister Sellmayer told The Anchor. After prayer and discemment, she entered the novitiate of the Holy Union Sisters in 1989. She.was late professed and currently serves 10 hours a week as a parish nurse at Holy Rosary Church in Fall River, and for 20 hours a week at Our Lady of the Assumption in Osterville. When she's in Fall River she lives at the Holy Union Community at 570 Rock Street. She says that not only widows comprise the Sister Morns. 'There are some among us who were divorced and their marriages later annulled;' she pointed out. The goal or objective of Sister Moms "is simply a support group where we can get together and swap stories about our families and children and our work We. have so much to share, especially how we balance religious life with being mothers and grandmothers too;' . Sister Jane said. 'The experience of being a wife, mother and a pr0fessional nurse provides me and the other Sister Moms with a wide variety of gifts "to offer in parish ministry;' she added. "I do a lot of bereavement work having' SISTER- JANE E. SELLMAYER By DEACON JAMES N. DUNBAR

SERVING OTHERS - Bishop Sean P. O'Malley, OFM Cap., gets a tour of the St. Vincent de, Paul store by Vincentians Leopold Thibault, store treasurer, and Armand Frechette, diocesan president, last week in Fall River. The bishop was on hand to bless the site, which was. rebuilt after a fire in 1999. "It helps people in the community;' said Thibault. ''That's important." (A,nchodGordon photo)

Eci.-rnenical forum brings call to· challenge secularism By Roy HORNER CATHOUC NEWS SERVICE

we ought to look at our secular society not as a wall," Bishop HARRISBURG, Pa. - A Anderson said, "but as a cry for Harrisburg forum on ecumenical . help. Secularism is not an answer; relations produced calls for unity it is the symptom. It is the sympin the battle against secularism in tom of a culture that is afraid of the infant (Jesus), ofthe transcenthe United States. "If ever there was a reason for ·dent. Why is that? "I think it is becal,lse we have us to get together," Auxiliary Bishon Joseph F. ,Martino ,I;>f 1'!,yy~t..Yre tp~ti~, jlt, h~,.eag~r: for control;' he;said. "This,Christiim p.iiH~~~.i~ID~('~~a, "it i~,tfie, that secularism' takes comfort at COmrrlUnitY can speak to a secutimes in the fact that we are di- lar society, and in words that not vided. And (it) we don't know only the truth seeker can underwhat we are talking about, why stand (but) will see as a true giver should others who reject our per- of God's holy truth." spective ac. Cardinal Keeler spoke cept itT ofthe progress Bishop ."If ever there was a reaof an "ecuMartino, the son for us to get together," menical vitalArchdioceseof Auxiliary Bishop Joseph F.' ity," pointing Philadelphia's to . the full top ecumenical Martino of Philadelphia and interfaith communion said, "it is the fact that officer, helped secularism takes, comfort reached by the Evangeliorganize the at times in the fact that we recent forum cal Lutheran are divided." on behalf of Church and Pennsylvania's three' other Catholic bishProtestant deops. nominations, About 250 people from a num- and the 1999 Joint Declaration on ber of faith traditions attended the the Doctrine of Justification 'beforum. In addition to Catholics tween the Catholic and Lutheran and Lutherans; there were repre- churches. sentatives from the United MethThe joint declaration is conodist Church; the United Church sidered one of the great ecuof Christ.. the Church of God, the menical milestones in' the Church of Brethren, the Menno- nearly five centuries of Chrisnite Church and the Presbyterian, tian division' since the ProtesBaptistand Epjscopal denomina- tant Reformatiop.. It proclaims' tions. that believers are loved first by The ,. two keynote speakers at . God's grace; that salvation the conference were Cardinal .cont~s".through~faith alone in William H Keeler, of Baltimore Chflst',the redeemer, and that and Bishop H. George Anderson, good :wor~(are an essential' outgoing presiding bishop of the sig~ of true faitn. EVangelical Luth~ran Church in Cardinal Keeler sa"id the America. churches are challenged: "to go ' Bishop'Anderson said it is im- forward with the further steps that' perative that Christians of all dif- will be necessary in the move toferent persuasions rally under a ward full communion. The full banner ,of true unity· to confront communion achieved among' .secularism,which simply ignores some churches is only one stepin life's spiritUal'dimension. the reconciliatioRthat we so must "And I would simply suggest seek."

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SISTER ·MOMS· including Sister JaneSellmayer, seated second.from'left, gathered for a meeting/in Idaho earlier this month "to plan 'upcoming programs·and enjoy ~amaraderie. (Photo courtesy of Sister Jane)