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DIOCESE OF FALL RIvER

2006

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Massachusetts Catholic bishops statement on November 9 recess vote

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November 14, 2006 We are deeply disturbed by the failure of the State Legislature to take up the Marriage Amendment that 170,000 citizens petitioned to put on the 2008 ballot.

The effort to silence the people through inaction and delay has no place in a democracy. While recognizing that individuals have differing opinions on the marriage issue, we have always asked the Legislature to let the people exercise their right to vote.

The eighty-seven legislators who opposed the motion to recess in the latest Constitutional Convention deserve our thanks. They sought to fulfill their constitutional duty to vote on whether to move the Marriage Amendment forward.

Citizens of this Commonwealth have exercised their right to initiate the petition process afforded to them by our state constitution, and they have complied with the law at every step. They also deserve our thanks for participating in the arduous task of democracy by collecting signatures and contacting their legislators.

Our public servants have no less of an obligation to follow the law by bringing the Marriage Amendment to a legislative vote. Thus, we are profoundly disappointed with the conduct of those elected officials who, by voting to recess until the last day of the session, are obstructing the constitutional right of the people to be heard.

BUCKING THE TREND - Robert and Kevin Marley initiated The Coalition to Save Christmas in Massachusetts to help keep Christ in Christmas. (Photo courtesy of The Boston Herald)

Keeping Christ in Christmas

Cardinal Sean P. O'Malley Archdiocese of Boston

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Most Rev. George W. Coleman Bishop Diocese of Fall River

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Bishop Diocese of Springfield

Most Rev. Robert J. McManus Bishop Diocese of Worcester

in December. They also plan peaceful pickets at retailers they The Coalition to Save Christmas in Massachusetts is show- call "Scrooge Stores," those who force their employees into a ing stores they can't expect to muzzle Christian expression generic-hol~,day straightjacket.

Judging from their results in three short weeks, it's a mesand still rake in profits from Christmas shoppers, The national attention they've raised has amazed its founders sage that resonates.

The national Fox News Channel will tape an interview with - three North Shore men who began this effort in early Nothem November 27. They will also be vember with a $5-a-month Website.

The coalition is the brainchild of - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - on Sirius Satellite Radio with talk It was seeing the public expression show host Jay Thomas, and on 50 rabrothers Robert and Kevin Marley and of Christmas all but outlawed that dio stations across America through their friend Steven Ciambelli, Lynnfield real estate developers. The motivated the friends, who have put syndication. three were boyhood pals growing up their private lives on hold for the They have fielded hundreds ofcalls in Revere and still call St. Anthony of cause. 'We want our kids to be able and emails from fed-up individuals Padua Parish their home base. to celebrate Christmas " said Robert and curious media outlets nationwide "We just decided, enough is Marley, a 48-year-old lather of four. since the Bo~ton Herald and Channel enough. It's gone beyond ludicrous _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 5 (ABC affilIate WCVB-TV Boston) ran the story November 6. The Boston-based advocacy group Catholic Citizenship (www.catholicvote.org) publicized the news via email, and responses poured in.

Philanthropist and real estate developer Thomas J. Flatley of Milton called to offer his help.

"I think they're very courageous," Flatley said in an interview with The Anchor. "I'd be thrilled to have my name affiliated with anything that has to do with Christ. Why do you Turn to page 10 - Christmas

with the Happy Holidays," Robert Marley said in a phone interview.

The trio's Website (savingchristmasinmass.homestead.com) explains: "We want Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukka and Happy Kwanzaa restored in the malls and stores that would have our money. We'd like to invite all to participate and show support for this cause because all religions are under attack by the secular movement."

Their solution is simple: just don't shop in stores that prohibit the expression of the holy days and holidays we celebrate

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NOVEMBER

24,2006

Pope, curial officials reaffirm value of priestly celibacy VATICAN CITY (CNS) - Pope Benedict XVI and top Vatican officials, meeting to review the status of married priests, reaffirmed the value ofpriestly celibacy and said its importance should be highlighted among priests and seminarians.

At the same time, the participants examined the possibility of the return to active ministry of some priests who may have left the priesthood to marry but who now meet certain conditions, a Vatican statement said.

'The value ofthe choice ofpriestly celibacy according to the Catholic tradition was reaffinned, and the need for solid human and Christian formation was underlined, both for seminarians and for those already ordained;' a brief Vatican statement said.

The Vatican encounter was triggered by the case of zambian Archbishop Emmanuel Milingo, who recently was excommunicated after he ordained four married men as bishops without papal permission.

TheVatican statement, issued a few hours after the meeting, made no mention ofArchbishop Milingo. It said the participants were given updated information on requests by priests for dispensation from the obligation of celibacy and on the possibility of readmission for priests who "meet the conditions foreseen by the church."

In recent years, the Vatican has approved the return to active ministry for some priests who left to marry in civil ceremonies, but who later divorced or were widowed and petitioned for readmission. Such readmissions follow a long process and require an expression ofrepentance from the petitioner, according to Vatican officials.

The Vatican spokesman, Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, told Catholic News Serviceit was his understanding that the meeting did not consider

major changes in the priestly celibacy rule. Instead, he said, the discussion appeared to focus on the pastoral situation ofpriests in those special circumstances seeking readmissio~ to ministry.

When ordained, Latin-rite Catholic priests make a promise ofcelibacy.

In the Eastern rites, married men may become priests, but are not allowed to marry after ordination.

The Vatican encounter came less than two weeks after Archbishop Milingo wrote an open letter to the pope, calling for immediate steps to accept married priests in the Catholic Church in order to end what he said was the Church's "dire straits because of the shortage of priests."

In his letter, Archbishop Milingo said there were an estimated 150,000 married priests worldwide "who are ready and willing to serve."

Archbishop Milingo, 76, civilly married a South Korean woman in 2001 but at the request of Pope John Paul II left her and was reconciled with theXatican. Last summer, however, the archbishop reunited with his civil wife in the United States and founded a movement called Married Priests Now! The issue of priestly celibacy and the potential role of married priests came up at the Synod of Bishops on the Eucharist in late 2005. Several bishops at the synod asked for discussion of the possibility of ordaining married men to respond to priest shortages around the world.

But the synod ended up strongly affirming the value ofpriestly celibacy and made no recommendations for any change.

Priests who request and obtain Vatican dispensation from priestly celibacy in order to marry are returned to the lay state.

Pope says Holy Spirit makes each person a child of God VATICAN CITY (CNS) - The Holy Spirit, present in every Christian, makes each person a child ofGod and part of God's great family, Pope Benedict XVI said.

During his November 15 weekly general audience in St. Peter's Square, the pope continued a series of talks on the life and teachings of St. Paul.

In the apostle's Letter to the Romans, St. Paul describes the ways in which the third person of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit, is present and works in the lives of all Christians.

The Holy Spirit "lives in us (as) God invited the Spirit of his Son into our hearts;' the pope said.

Each Christian receives "a spirit of adoption" through which he or she becomes, in Christ, a son or daughter of God the Father, he said.

Having this special relationship with God and knowing they are part of God's great family should compel

Christians to let this gift manifest itself in "our thoughts, our actions, our being" and lead people to better love one another, he said.

According to St. Paul, the pope said, the Holy Spirit is God's generous promise and guarantee that the faithful will be delivered from pain and evil, and as "heirs of God" the glory of heaven will await them.

The pope urged Christians to become more open and aware of the Holy Spirit's silent presence in them and have it help them in their prayers.

St. Paul says the Holy Spirit "helps us in our weakness because we don't know what is worthwhile to ask (of God), and how true it is that we don't know how to talk to God," the pope said.

Instead, the Spirit intercedes "on our behalfand prays for us" and helps the faithful "speak with the Father as children of the Holy Spirit."

ONE OF 16 - A statue of Pope Benedict XV stands on a large stone pedestal in front of the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Istanbul, Turkey. The larger-than-Iife-size statue was erected with the help of Sultan Mehmet VI in 1921 to honor Pope Benedict for opening up Catholic health facilities to all victims of World War I. Pope Benedict XVI is expected to celebrate Mass in the cathedral and view the statue during his November 28-December 1 trip to Turkey. (CNS photo/Fatih Saribas, Reuters)

Secularism in Thrkey means government controls religions

By CINDY WOODEN CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

ROME - Turkey's unique brand of secularism is not separation of religion and state, but rather government control of religion, impacting both the Muslim majority and religious minorities.

The government builds and funds mosques, employs Muslim prayer leaders, controls religious education and bans Muslim women and men from wearing certain head coverings in public offices and universities.

Pope Benedict XVI is expected to address the need for a broader understanding of the religious freedom guarantees during his November 28-December I visit to Turkey.

The Turkish Constitution guarantees the religious freedom of all the country's residents, and a 1923 treaty guarantees that religious minorities will be allowed to found and operate religious and charitable institutions.

Secularists in Turkey see control of religion as the only way to guarantee Islam will not overpower the secularism of the state and its institutions.

However, the fact that the constitution and Turkish law do not recognize minority religious communities as legal entities has severely limited their ability to own property, and laws restricting private religious higher education have made it almost impossible for them to operate

seminaries and schools of theology.

Otmar Oehring, head of the human rights office of Missio, the German Catholic aid and development agency, said that when the Republic of Turkey was founded in 1923 the Department of Religious Affairs was established ."to crush Islam and replace it with Turkish nationalism, which was seen as the only way to promote the modernization and development of Turkey."

"But it is clear that you cannot take religion away from a religious country," Oehring said in a recent telephone interview from Aachen, Germany. "Turks are not fundamentalists and radicals, but they are pious."

Oehring lived in Turkey until he was 16, and he wrote his doctoral thesis on ideological tensions within the country.

Once multiparty democracy was established in Turkey in the 1950s, he said, the Religious Affairs Department started opening more mosques and training and hiring more imams.

Although the effort to crush Islam was set aside, a conviction that religion had to be controlled was not, he said.

"The state controls and organizes a state brand of Islam," he said.

"If you are a Turkish citizen of Turkish origin, with a Turkish name and you are a Sunni Muslim, you will have no problems," Oehring said. "But if you are

Catholic - or worse, Greek Orthodox with a Greek name - you are considered a foreigner, even if you are a Turkish citizen."

One of the most difficult issues Christians, Jews and other religious minorities are facing is their lack of recognition under Turkish law, particularly as it applies to their ability to acquire and own property for churches or synagogues, schools and hospitals, he said.

Running seminaries is even more difficult, Oehring said.

"In 1971, the government decided there would be no more private religious schools offering higher education," so the Greek and Armenian Orthodox seminaries were closed, he said. The Jewish community already was sending its rabbinical students abroad, and the Latin-rite Catholic seminary remained open since it was housed in the compound of the French consulate in Istanbul.

While many people recognize the continued closure of the seminaries as a problem, he said, "the Kemalists and secularists say if you give Christians the possibility of opening schools, Islamic schools not under state control also would have a right to open."

"A lot of Church people prefer that this not become law because then the government can say it did what it was asked to do and nothing will change for another 20 years," Oehring said.

NOVEMBER

24,2006

$ U.S.

CONFERENCE OF CATHOLIC BISHOPS'

who "give selective assent to the The document also reminds teachings of the Church."

Catholics who join in non-Catholic But Cathohcs who have "honest services on a Sunday that "the oblidoubt and confusion" about some gation to participate in a Catholic Church teachings "are welcome to Mass still remains." partake of holy Communion, as long Non-Catholics are permitted to as they are prayerfully and honestly receive Communion in a Catholic striving to understand the truth of church only if they belong to what the Church professes and are churches in full communion with the taking appropriate steps to resolve Catholic Church or in cases of their confusion and doubt," Ipte docu- "grave necessity" when ministers of ment says. " their own faith are not available and "If a Catholic in his or her per- certain other conditions are met, the sonal or professional life were know- appendix says.

I' ingly and obstinately either to reject or to doubt the defined doctrines of DIOCESAN TRIBUNAL the Church or het definitiye teachFALL RIVER. MASSACHUSETTS ing on moral issues, however, he or Decree of Citation she would seriously diminish his or Since her present domicile is un· GOOD START - U.S. bishops sing during morning prayer in Baltimore during of their annual fall her communion with the I~hurch," known. in accord with the provision of it added. "Reception of holy Commeeting. (eNS photo/Nancy Wiechec) Canon 1509.1. we hereby cite Jittima munion in such a situation would not M. Sherrill to appear in person before accord with the nature of tQe euchathe Tribunal of the Diocese of Fall River (887 Highland Avenue in Fall River, ristic celebration, so he or she should Bristol County, Massachusetts) on refrain."

December 8. 2006 at 2:30 PM to give . If a person who "is 'publicly his testimony regarding the question: known to have committed serious sin IS THE AMARAL·KOHEM MARRIAGE

By NANCY FRAZIER O'BRIEN filakingjudgmentsaboutvvhetheror or to have rejected definitive Church charist.

NULL ACCORDING TO CHURCH LAW? CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE Archbishop Myers' request came not someone else should receive holy teaching and is not yet r~onciled Anyone who has knowledge of the BALTIMORE - Emphasizing after a presidential campaign in Communion." with the Church" receives Commundomicile of Jittima M. Sherrill is hereby "In order to receive holy Com- ion, it "is likely to cause scandal for required to inform her of this citation. that they were addressing all Catho- which some bishops had criticized Given at the offices of the Diocesan lics, and not just politicians or any the Democratic candidate, Sen. John munion we must be in communion others," giving "further re~son" for Tribunal in Fall River, Bristol County, other group, the U.S. bishops No- Kerry ofMassachusetts, and said he with God and with the Church," the the perso~ to refrain, the bishops Massachusetts on November 17, 2006. vember 14 voted in favor of a docu- and other Catholic politicians who document says. "If we are no longer said. ment calling on those in a state of supported abortion should be re- in a state of grace because of mortal The document says Gatholics (Rev.) Paul F. Robinson, O. Cann., serious sin to refrain from receiving fused Communion under canon law. sin, we are seriously obliged to re- should get ready to receive ComJ.C.D. But a footnote to the document frain from receiving holy Commun- . munion through both "remote prepaCommunion. The vote was 201-24, Judicial Vicar says that it is not intended "to pro- ion until we are reconciled with God ration" - prayer, Scripture reading, with two abstentions.

(Mrs.) Denise D. Berube An effort to amend the document vide specific guidelines" to the pro- and the Church." frequent confession and other steps Ecclesiastical Notary Among examples of such sin, the - and "proximate preparation." to specifically name politicians as vision in canon law that says that Ii among those who need to exainine Catholics "obstinately persevering document cites "committing murder, their consciences before receiving in manifest grave sin" should not be including abortion and euthanasia; harboring deliberate hatred of oththe Eucharist failed on a voice vote. allowed to receive Communion.

In comments to the bishops be- ers; (and) sexual abuse of a minor or Titled "'Happy Are Those Who April 14 - 21, 2007 Are Called to His Supper': On Pre- fore the debate and vote, Bishop vulnerable adult, or physical or ver23 - July 1, 2007 June paring to Receive Christ Worthily in Serratelli said the document was in- bal abuse of others that causes grave October 5 - 12~ 2007 the Eucharist:' the document says tended as a positive message of en- physical or psychological harm."

Other "serious violations of the Cost: $2,200 that a Catholic who "knowingly and couragement to U.S. Catholics.

"To be a Catholic is a challenge law of love of God and of neighbor" obstinately" rejects "the defined docRomelTuscany/Florence. trines of the Church" or repudiates and to be a Catholic is to adhere to listed in the document included See the Pope, Sistine Chapel, Colosseum, "definitive teaching on moral issues" the Church's teachings as handed swearing a false oath, missing Mass .

Catacombs, Spanish Steps... on Sundays or holy days without a would not be in communion with the down by Christ," he said.

Contact: The document said all Catholics serious reason, "acting in serious Church and therefore should not re"should strive to receive holy Com- disobedience against proper authorceive Communion.

Anthony Nachef, PhD (Theology) "All kinds ofpeople don't under- munion regularly, gratefully and ity," sexual activity "outside the 857 W. Boylst9n St., Worcester, MA 01606 bonds of a valid marriage," stealing, stand their responsibilities when worthily."

'508-340-9370 "We may find ourselves in situa- slander or involvement with pornoggoing to the Eucharist," said Bishop E-mail: an@catholicteachings.org Arthur 1. Serratelli of Paterson, N.J., tions, however, where an examina- raphy.

Website: ~.catholicteachings.org The document criticized those chairman ofthe U.S. bishops' Com- tion of conscience before God remittee on Doctrine. His committee veals to us that we should refrain prepared the document following a from partaking of the Body and request in November 2004 by Arch- Blood of Christ," the bishops said.

But among the 79 amendments bishop John J. Myers of Newark, nd rd N.J., for a statement on how Catho- to the document was a warning that lics should prepare to receive the Eu- everyone "should be cautious when •

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CONFERENCE OF CATHOLIC. BISHOPS

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NOVEMBER

24, 2006

Bishops call for greater knowledge, use of natural family planning BALTIMORE (CNS) - The u.s. bishops ovelWhelmingly approved a document that encourages married couples who use artificial contraception to return to Church teaching and learn how natural family planning can benefit the marital relationship.

"Our goal has been to produce a document especially for engaged and young married couples, presenting the Church's teaching on resPect for the gift of procreation in the context of their hopes for a happy and fulfilled married life:' said Cardinal William H. Keeler of Baltimore as he introduced the document as chairman of the bishops' Committeeon Pro-LifeActivities.

Titled ''Married Love and the Gift of Life:' the document was approved on a 220-11 vote, with one abstention on November 14.

Contraception introduces "a false note" that disturbs marital intimacy and contributes to a decline in society's respect for marriage and for life, said the document, written in question-andanswer form and intended for use as a brochure.

Natural family planning - which describes several methotls of family planning based on the woman's menstrual cycle - "enables couples to cooperate with the body as God designed it," the bishops said.

On the other hand, "suppressing fertility by using contraception denies part of the inherent meaning of married sexuality and does harm to the couple's unity, and is thereby considered objectively gravely sinful," they added.

Cardinal Keeler said the document was developed in collaboration with the bishops' committees on Doctrine and on Marriage and Family Life and had received positive feedback from the National Advisory Council, natural family planning instructors and participants in marriage preparation pr0:grams in four U.S. dioceses. ''This is the first document in many years in which the U.S. bishops are collectively addressing a message on contraception directly to engaged and married couples," the cardinal said,

adding that ''this is our first word on the subject in a long time and not our last word."

In the document, the bishops disputed the view that the Church's opposition to contraception means that Catholic couples must "leave their family size entirely to chance." ''In married life, serious circumstances- financial, physical, psychological or those involving responsibilities to other family members - may arise to make an increase in family size untimely," they said. 'The Church understands this, while encouraging couples to take a generous view of children."

That's where natural family planning comes in, the bishops said. The method helps couples avoid pregnancy by refraining from intercourse for the few fertile days around the time of the woman's ovulation. ''A couple need not desire or seek to have a child in each and every act of intercourse," the document said.

"And it is not wrong for couples to have intercourse even when they know the wife is naturally infertile.

"But they should never act to suppress or curtail the life-giving power given by God that is an integral part of what they pledged to each other in their marriage vows," the bishops added.

Recalling warnings from Popes Paul VI and John Paul II that a "contraceptive mentality" would lead to more abortions and other evils, the bishops said, 'These predictions have come true.

"Today we see a pandemic ofsexually.transmitted diseases, an enormous rise in cohabitation, one in three children born outside of marriage, and abortion used by many when contraception fails," the document said "A failure to respect married love's power to help create new life has eroded respect for life and for the sanctity of n;tarriage."

The bishops also cautioned Catholies that newer forms ofcontraception, such as the "morning-after pill," may cause an abortion iftaken after a sperm and egg have joined.

Bishops OK statement on sex abuse funding BALTIMORE (CNS) - As the John Jay College of Criminal Justice U.S. bishops were finishing their sec- in New York, was considered a landond day of business at their Novem- mark in its field, and the new study is ber 13-16 fall general meeting in Bal- expected to be similarly timore, they allocated $335,000 forthe groundbreaking. next phases of a national study on the The board commissioned the colcauses and context of clergy sexual lege to do the follow-up on causes and abuse ofminors. context, expected to cost around $3 On the clergy sexual abuse study, million, in November 2005, after the Patricia O'Donnell Ewers, chair- bishops the previous June committed woman ofthe National Review Board $1 million from their reserve funds to overseeing the bishops' compliance help pay for the study. The $335,000 with their child protection charter, told expenditure they approved by unanithe bishops, "I can't emphasize mous voice vote November 13 comes enough how important this study is for out of that $1 million commitment. society as a whole" as well as for the . The college expects to obtain outside Church." funding for the more expensive last The first study, conducted by the three phases of the new study.

THAT'S A WRAP - U.S. bishops wrap up the public portion of their general fall meeting November 14 in Baltimore. (eNS photo/Nancy Wiechec)

Statement on pastoral care of homosexuals adopted by bishops

By JERRY FILTEAU CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

sion of marital love and the procreation and education of children "is the order of nature, an order whose source is ultimately the wisdom of God," and any sexual expression outside maniage "is disordered."

Homosexual acts are "objectively sinful" and "the homosexual inclination is objectively disordered," although "simply having the tendency is not a sin," the statement says.

"It is crucially important to understand that saying a person has a particular inclination that is disordered is not to say that the person as

one with homosexual inclinations.

The bishops voted down the BALTIMORE- The U.S. ConBurke amendments as insertions in ference of Catholic Bishops apthe text of the statement, but they approved a statement on the pastoral proved adding a footnote which care of homosexually inclined persays, "Examples of such ministries sons. whose principles are in accord with Church teaching are Courage and The 26-page statement reiterates Encourage."

Church teaching that all homosexual In its section on pastoral care the acts are morally wrong but affinns statement condemns "unjust disthe dignity ofthose with homosexual crimination and harassment" of inclinations and says that having those with a homosexual inclination such an inclination is not in itself and stresses the importance of a parsinful. ish community that welcomes them In Baltimore at their yearly fall meeting, the bishops on Noas active, participating members. "Persons who experience vember 14 approved the statement 194-37, with one abstenThe Church "does not support the same-sex attraction and yet are tion, after turning back a mo- adoption of children by same-sex living in accord with Church tion to send it back to the couples," but it should not refuse teaching should be encourUSCCB Committee on Doc- baptism to such children if there is aged to take an active role in trine, which drafted the docu- "a well-founded hope that the chil- the life of the faith commument, for more consultation dren will be brought up in the Catho- nity," it says. and revision.

It adds, however, that "the lic religion," it says.

The draft document the Church has a right to deny bishops received before the roles ofservice to those whose meeting was amended heavily be- a whole is disordered.... While the behavior violates her teaching. Such particular inclination to homosexual service may seem to condone an fore it came to a final vote.

In introducing the document acts is disordered, the person retains immoral lifestyle and may even be Bishop Arthur 1. Serratelli of Pater- his or her intrinsic human dignity an occasion of scandal."

It says catechesis should help son, N.J., chairman of the doctrine and value," the statement says.

One of the liveliest debates Catholics understand the fullness of committee, acknowledged that ''there are aspects of our society that among the bishops during their dis- Church teaching on human sexualmake it difficult for people to live cussion of the document was over ity and at the same time appreciate according to the Church's teaching proposed amendments by Arch- the dignity of all people, condemnbishop Raymond L. Burke of St. ing violence or unjust discrimination on sexuality."

He said that cannot deter the Louis to praise Courage and Encour- toward those with a homosexual inChurch from carrying out its mis- age as notable examples of Catholic clination.

It says Church ministers must not sion to teach the truth and to "pro- support programs for homosexuals mote sound, effective ministry to and their families that are in accord promote or bless homosexual unions. persons with a homosexual inclina- with Church teaching.

Courage, which works with tion."

The Church "does not support the The statement is titled "Ministry people with homosexual inclinations, adoption of children by same-sex to Persons with a Homosexual In- and Encourage, a support program couples," but it should not refuse clination: Guidelines for Pastoral for their family members, operate on baptism to such children if there is a 12-step program similar to Alco- "a well-founded hope that the chilCare."

It says the union of man and holics Anonymous and stress chas- dren will be brought up in the Cathowoman in marriage for the expres- tity as the framework for life for any- lic religion," it says.

NOVEMBER

24, 2006

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CHANGING OF THE GUARD - Sen. Harry Reid, right, D-Nev., speaks to the press alongside his party colleagues on Capitol Hill November 14. He was elected by his colleagues to be U.S. Senate majority leader for the 11 Oth Congress that will ~onvene in January. Reid is currently Senate minority leader. Standing with him are Sen. Charles E. Schumer, D-N.Y., left, and Sen. Richard J. DUrbin, D-III., who will be assistant majority leader and is one of 25 Catholics in tne new'Senate. (CNS photo/Jason Reed, Reuters)

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Congress has more Pro-Life Democrats; may raise wages and aid immigrants WASHINGTON (CNS) - The abortion in some cases, but by a nar110th Congress that goes to work in rower margin.

January will include more Pro-Life "The biggest challenge is the , Democrats, whose party.'s majority change in leadership," Johnson said. in both the House and Sen'ate also is The probable new chainnen of both likely to bring efforts to raise the judiciary committees and of comminimum wage, roll back tax cuts inittees concerned with' appropriafor the richest Americans and take a tions and health policy oppose most broader approach to immigration" o~ the Pro-Life agenda, he said.. reform.

Day said it was too soon to say Six new members of the House whether the Democratic Party's and one new senator who oppose support for successful Pro-Life canlegal abortion were elected Novem- didates in thi,s election means the . ber 7 as part of a Democratic surge' end of the presumption that Demothat put the party in control of bo~ cratic candidates must support le- ' houses of Congress for the first time gal abortion to have the party's in 12 years. backing.

Pennsylvania voters chose "We would hope it's off the Democratic state Treasurer Bob ' table," she said. Already Democrats Casey Jr. to replace Republican Sen. opposed to abortion are finding the Rick Santorum. Both are Catholics party's leaders more inclined to work who oppose legal abortion. with them on legislation such as the Democrats for Life of America Pregnant Women Si.!pport Act, she counted six new House members as added. The bill, which has the supPro-Life: Heath Shuler of North· port of the U.S. Catholic bishops, is Carolina, a Baptist; ,Joe Donnelly aimed at r~ducing the number of and Brad Ellsworth, both of Indiana; abortions. ' House Democratjc leader Rep. Charlie Wilson of Ohio; and Chris Carney and Jason Altmire, both of Nancy Pelosi of California, who is Pennsylvania. The lasffive are listed expected to be speaker of the House 'by various sources as Catholics. in the 11 Oth Congress, backed Rep. Congressional Quarterly tallied John Murtha of Pennsylvania, a 25 Catholics in the upcoming Sen- Catholic and an opponent of legal ate', and 126 in.the House. There are abortion in an unsuccessful bid for currently 24 Catholic' senators and House majority leader. Pelosi, also 131 Catholic HoiI.se me¢lbers. Two a Catholic, supports keeping aborBuddhists and a Muslim elected to tion legal. the House will be the first members Day also said she has heard from .of those faiths in Congress. .arou~d the country that the DemoKristen Day, executive director of. cratic Party's support for some ProDemocrats for Life, said although Life candidates made some voters some of the Republicans -who were .opposed to abortion feel more free _ ous,ted in the election also were con- to vote for Democrats in general. sistent Pro-Life vo(ers ~n Congress, Expanded federal funding for the net effect is "near a wash" in embryonic stem-cell research, which terms of total Pro-Life members. is opposed by the U.S. Conference Douglas Johnson, legislative di- of Catholic Bishops and many Pro~ rector of the National Right to Life Life organizations, is one ite~ on Committee, said by his count there Pelosi's short-term agenda. will be 10-15 fewer Pro-Life votes ''Never before in our lifetimes has in the House and perhaps four fewer immigration.emerged as a major facin the Senate, depending upon the tor in an elect,ion," said a written issue. He said that might still consti- election analysis by Frank Sharry, tute a majority supporting limits on executive director of the National .'

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The'Anchor ,

The bishops' shift of priorities, There was much comment in both the secular and Catholic media about the items on the agenda for the U.S. Bishops' Conference meeting last week in Baltimore. Ail noted a marked shift from the docket of November's meetings and concluded, accurately, that there is a llew set of priorities not just for the annual assemblies but for the Conference as a: whole.

For the past few decades, the u.s. Bishops' Conference has had a decidedly outward-looking focus. The Church, after all, is missionary and has , been given by the Lord a divine commission to proclaim and live the Gospel "to the natiollS," thereby serving as the salt of the earth, the light of the world and leaven for all of society.

The bishops have interpreted this mandate as a call to apply the pJjnciples of Church teaching to a wide variety of concrete social issues at the national and global levels. They have focused on international policy, land mines, the arms race, debt relief for poor countries, migration and immigration, global climate change and other envir9nmental concems. They have lent their moral authority to crises in different parts of the wodd, such as in Iraq, Darfur, Niger, Northern Ireland, EI Salvador, Sudan, Israel and Palestine, Russia, -tIaiti, Burundi, Liberia, Kenya, Cuba, Kosovo, the Congo, Sierra Leone, Colombia, East TImor, and Mexico. They have commented upon economic justice, faithful citizenship, health care, assistance for those with disabilities; women's issues and a multitude of social justice concerns. These have all been in'addition to the Church's well-known action in defense of the family and human life at all stages, as well as more to the more explicitly "religious" , external activities like ecumenism and inter-religious dialogue. , In order to support the conference's multivalent work, a huge bureaucracy needed to develop and with it a proportionately vast budget. Eventually 36 . different standing committees and 16 ad hoc committees formed and the total annual budget of the conference ballooned to about $140 million.

Last week the bishops did several things tos!low that they are beginning to move in a new direction. First, they decided to streamline the conference's committee structure, reducing the 52 committees to 16. They eliminated 60 staffpositions. They cut by 16 percentthe annual tax each diocese needs to pay to fund the staff. They articulated five priority goals for the next five years the defense and strengthening of marriage, faith formation focused on sacramental practice, priestly and religious vocations, the life and dignity of the human Person, and ministry to the burgeoning number of Hispanic Catholics. , But perhaps the greatest shift was seen in the studies and documents they discussed and approved, all of which flow from those priority goals and deal with issues "internal" to the Church in the United States.

They authorized a further more in-depth study of the context and causes of clergy sex abuse. They gave assent to the formation of a "Directory for Music and the Liturgy" for use in U.S. dioceses. They approved revisions in the Lectionary for use in Advent. And they approved three pastoral teaching documents. The firsrfocused on the pastoral care of those with same~sex attractions and clearly distinguished the sexual ethics revealed by Christ from that advanced by the gay agenda. The second discussed the criteria for worthy reception of holy Co~union lind described the conditions under which Catholics should not receive the Eucharist. The third outlined the gift oflife within married love and discussed why the use of artificial contraception withln marriage will harm the love between husband and wife and injure their relationship with God. All three of these will be discussed in upcoming editorials.

Critics of the shift in focus have asked, "With all the problems going on in the world, why would the bishops be turning inward now?" They view the new set of priorities, the documents and the reduced staff as a withdrawal from the world at a moment when the world needs the Church most. Some ,have described it as the "arranging the chairs in the sanctuary" when society is facing TItanic problems. , As sincere as these questions and concerns are, however, these critics are missing something that the bishops have wisely realized. Over the past few decades when so much of the attention of the conference was dedicated toward external issues, many significant matters inside the Church were not ,~ getting the attention they needed, by the Church as a whole and by bishops in , particular. ' , The mostpbvious example is the prevention ofthe sexual abuse ofminors by clergy and religious; But there are many others. There is the dramatic decrease in participation at Sunday Mass and regular confession- and in the five other sacraments, too. The celebration of the Mass, rather than being "catholic" in the sense ofuniversal, has to some degree becoIJ.le a free-for-all, where not just genuine abuses have peen tolerated but legitimate disparities from on~ parish to another and one priest to another have become so great that traveling Mass-goers no longer know what to expect. There is a vaSt religious illiteracy among many young Catholics. Some Catholic politicians have for decades been abusing their baptismal status and scandalizing the fai~, pretending that they can be in communion with Christ at the same time they're in cahoots with abortionists. Catholic married couples have largely ,not received an adequate presentation on the good news ofthe Church's teacqings on marriage and sexuality and for the most part have ignored what they heard, which has contributed to high rates of perman~nt schisms within "domestic churches." The list of internal issues goes on.

In their shift of focus, the bishops have wisely realized that before they heIp the world tackle its many challenges, they must first get their own house ' in order. Last week's meeting was a propitious start. Then, once the planks are removed from the Church's eyes, she can return with a stronger, clearer , and more united vision - as well as greater credibility - to help the nation ' and the world.

NOVEMBER

24,2006

the living word THE BLESSED

VIRGIN MARY

IS SEEN IN TIllS DETAIL FROM A PAINTING BY SIMONE MARTINI AND LIPPo路 MEMMI. THE IMAGE IS

AMONG THOSE FEATURED IN THE NEW

TV DOCUMENTARY

"PICTURING MARY," TO BE .

SHOWN IN DECEMBER, EXAMINING HOW MARY HAS BEEN PORTRAYED IN ART THROUGH THE AGES.

"THEN THE ANGEL SAID' TO HER, ''Do NOT BE AFRAID, MARY, FOR YOU HAVE FOUND FAVOR WITH GOD. BEHOLD YOU WILL CONCEIVE IN YOUR WOMB AND BEAR A SON, AND YOU SHALL NAME HIM JESUS"

(LUKE 1:30-31).

,Th~priest as mediator ,

.

world, the priest faithfully transmits Thinking about the priest as an this revelation, without watering it icon, in which people can read down or altering it. When the priest certain truths'an~ messages from preaches, confects the Eucharist or God, is Qne way in which the idea administers the other sacraments, of a vocation to the priesthood might be more appealing to young he should be easily identified as God's ambassador,'his delegate to men today. the world.

Among the messages contained in the icon of the priest is the idea ,It can never be forgotten" however, that, while the priest of mediation, that he is a mediator between God and men. In fact, this .fulfills this sublime role as God's' 'aspect of the priesthood is something that many , people intuitively detect in lot(). , the identity of the priest. , ., : A mediator is one who 'i\th~ 'D~ep stands between two other parties, representing both L:'~t;>0"'~ 0'~~; ,0" By Fat~~'~(f" ~ of them, and working for A. Pignato reconciliation; as a peacemaker. Su~h is the task of a priest, who, by representative, he is still and always his sacred ordination, is sacramena mere man, beset with all the tally configured to Christ, "the one challenges, weaknesses and mediator between God and men" difficulties of oUr fallen human (1 Tim 2:5). By his ordination, a nature. As such, he is in close priest is inherently a representative solidarity with the people of God, of God and his people.

Ideally, people should be 'able to and he is their representative, too.

Above all, people should sense sense rather easily that the priest that the priest is their representative represents God, primarily by his to God by his role their advocate ,faithful dedication to the life-long in prayer. This, also, is something project of sanctification, by his that many people intuitively detect, disciplined effort to be more and when they entrust their most ardent more like Christ, the one he intentions to the prayers of a priest. represents to the world. Hopefully, They have a right to expect that he ~e priest is known by all for his , is a man of prayer. They have a personal holiness and as "a man of right to view him as a public and God." If he is not, something is official intercessor for humanity. very wrong.

People also relate to the priest as, They rightly see in the priest a, - ' confidant and advocate, who will God's representative because they know that the priest speaks for God, plead their cause before God. , Because he is a mere nian, and a by preaching the Gospel of Jesus former'layman, the priest underChrist. As God's mouthpiece to the

~~Putting ,"

',.~

,

,'

as

stands the frail condition of our humanity. He knows that he is configured to Christ, the High Priest, who was both true God and true man, and thus able to represent us to God the Father: ''For we have not a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who jn every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sinning. For every high priest chosen from among men is appointed to act on behalf of men,in relation to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. He can deal' gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is beset with weakness. Because of this he is bound to offer sacrifice for his own sins as well as for those of the people" (Reb 4:15,5:1-3).

And lastly, the priest is identified as a mediator by the fact that he is not his own, that he belongs to others, and lives for others. Nor does the priest stand for himself, but rather stands for God and God's people, as a bridge to bring the~ together.

As we read in the famous poem of Lacordaire: "To go from men to God and offer him their prayers; to return from Go~ to men to bring pardon and hope; To teach and pardon, console and bless always - What a glorious life! And it is yours, 0 Priest of Jesus Christ!"

Father Pignato is chaplain at Bishop Stang High School in Nol1h Dartmouth and is secretary tI! Bishop George lv.COle11Uln.

.

NOVEMBER

$

24, 2006

The Anchor

$

Not much of a Yen here Occasionally it happens in the ebb and flow of the newspaper business, when "My View From the Stands" is allotted a smaller than usual word count. This is such a week. And with Thanksgiving still fresh in the minds of many, some may find this a reason for still more thanks.

Often times, it takes me a good 800 words or so to get to my point, but as I'm explaining thjs to you, I'm becoming quite aware that I now have less than three column inches to introduce my point, explain it and wrap it up.

Oh well, here goes.

Folks have asked what I thought

about the Red Sox paying $51 million for the rights to hold contract talks with Japanese phenom

Daisuke Matsuzaka. Luckily, it won't take many words to respond.

One will do. Sickening. I feel like the New York Yankees, and it doesn't feel good. Fifty-one million bucks just to talk to him, and another 50 million to sign him. Ob-

scene. One-hundred million of anything is ludicrous, and translated into Japanese, it will total 12 billion Yen. Twelve billion.

I truly don't care if they sign him or not. The whole process has turned me off.

Enough has reached enough.

Let me put this in perspective. Take a peek at the photo on page 15 in today's Anchor. A mere $10 could probably save the child's life, but in the sports world, $10 wouldn't even pay for the pen used to sign the contract.

Sickening, just like a picture of a young girl who weighs barely more than a bat and ball. davejolivet@anchomews.org

Eulogies and memorial cards definitive reward or punishment (Rom 2:2-10); he Perhaps you'd like someone to give a remembrance speech at your funeral. If the priest deems it further believes that on the Last Day he will rise body and soul to "a new heaven and a new earth.. fitting, a brief eulogy may be given before the final commendation of the Funeral Liturgy. However, it's (Rev 21:1), when "what is sown in corruption rises in incorruption; ... what is sown a natural body rises important to remember that the chief purpose of the a spiritual body" (1 Cor 15:42-44).

Catholic funeral is not to bestow accolades on the deceased or to settle old family scores, but to pray You can't go wrong with Scripture passages such for his eternal happiness in union with Christ's once- as Job 19:25-27, Jn 11:25, 1 Cor 15:22-24, 1 Thess for-all sacrifice made present in the Eucharist. Since 4:14, Phil 1:21, and Rev 14:13. (It's worth taking nothing should ever deflect attention from this, if a the time to look these up.) Prayers from the liturgy itself are also fitting. Take, for instance, this excerpt eulogy would do so, it and other tributes would be from the final commendation: "Into your hands, more appropriate at the funeral parlor or graveside.

Father of mercies, we commend our brother/sister N. Most funeral directors provide families the in the sure and certain hope that, together with all opportunity to memorialize their beloved dead on who have died in Christ, he/she shall rise with him cards. One side usually features a religious image; on the reverse side is the on the Last Day." No -r---=:--.,~ New Age sentimentalism deceased's name, birthday, date of death, and a prayer or poem.

LI If you opt to have a Jf\e~nella.JliileS::::: those who die in God's ~ grace will share Christ's card made, please be sure it expresses J Father victory over death, even authentic Catholic belief 路Jhoma&M'. Kocik:--..-' if they may need spiritual I.'",," .,';~;('~. ,14';~. purification before they and piety. For one thing, it is theologically can join the saints in incorrect to refer to the glory. date of death as the date of "entry into eternal life," Let's close this miniseries by recapping the key points. since eternal life begins before death, through faith in Jesus Christ (In 5:24).

When pre-arranging your funeral, stipulate your You'll also want to avoid cards that "canonize" desire for a Mass of Christian Burial. The Mass you by assuring your survivors you're "safely home extends the sacrifice of Calvary in time, making in heaven." The fact is that we're all sinners in need present the fruits of redemption to the Church here on earth and the souls in purgatory; it is therefore of God's mercy. Before we can enjoy loving union beyond comparison to a "few prayers" said at the with the Holy Trinity in heaven, we must be comfuneral home or cemetery. . pletely purified of sin and its effects (Rev 21 :27).

If you're considering cremation, ask yourself Except for baptized children and those whom the whether unchristian attitudes are at play and whether Church honors with the title "saint," we simply the Church's preference for burial really poses a cannot be certain whether a person died fully detached from sin and prepared to enter immediately financial burden. into God's presence. And so, we're obliged in .

With the aid of a planning booklet available at most parish offices and funeral homes, consider the charity to pray for those who died in Christ. various options for the readings, prayers, music, and Even worse are cards wholly devoid of Christian content, like the one that reads: "Do not stand at my family involvement: personalized touches can give grave and weep. I am not there, I do not sleep. I am a added comfort to those in attendance. thousand winds that blow; I am the diamond glints Remember that eulogies are optional and should on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain; I am the never distract from the sacred nature of the liturgy.

Finally, see to it that the sentiments expressed on gentle autumn's rain...... your memorial card are in accord with Catholic This is paganism pure and simple. There is no doctrine. mention of God, Christ, or resurrection. The Holy Mother Church has been a vital part of your deceased "lives on" by becoming one with nature. A Catholic, however, believes that his unique personal- earthly pilgrimage. Make no secret of your desire that she accompany you into the Life beyond life! ity survives death because the human soul is Father Kocik is chaplain at Charlton Memorial immortal; he also believes he will be judged by God Hospital in Fall River. immediately after death (Reb 9:27) and receive

..

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Whose civil rights are

b~ing

On November 9, our state legislature, assembled in c(;mstitutional convention, voted to\recess until January 2, the last day of the legislative session, rather tI,an vote on the marriage amendment proposed by citizen initiative. The amendment says that, for the future, marriage in Massachusetts shall only be between a man and a woman.

Under Article 48 of our"State constitution, amendments proposed by initiative "shall ... be laid before ajoint session of the two houses.

Final legislative action in the joint session shall be taken only ,by call of the yeas and nays, which shall be entered upon the journals of the two houses. At such joint session an initiative amendment receiVing the affirmative votes of not less than one-fourth of all the meinbers elected, shall be referred tothe next general court." Notice that Article 48 says "shall," not "should" or "shoulda-eoulda-woulda:' At the crucial juncture, it says "shall only."

It's mandatory, not hortatory. No ducking is allowed, just a recorded vote by the yeas and nays on the amendment

itse~~ why did a

majority of

deprived? inappropriate to put civil rights to a majority vote. But this is just a bluff to give it "sacred cow" status and place it beyond and outside the reach of debate and popular vote. The asserted right to gay marriage is a novel claim. It was established in Massachusetts by the slimmest of margins of our state supreme court, a majority of one (four to three). The putative right has been rejected in every one of the dozens of other courts around the country such that it is only recognized here. It has likewise been rejected by legislation and popular referenda in the U.S. Congress and virtually every other state. Finally, the proposed amendment would only operate prospectively, leaving intact those gay unions recognized under the authority of the Goodridge decision.

All of these together mean that no one would be deprived of a genuine civil right.

Representative Marty Walsh DDorchester, who also voted for a recess from his oath of office, was quoted in "Bay Wmdows" as saying, "'I'm not happy with the procedural

~J~d ge ,Jr0 r

c.J

~~:I:~~~~:t~X(jut$el~

of office and vote ",' ":, to recess rather L~:'::~4~:~ight Duncar:t ) than vote on the amendment? move. I wish this could be defeated Because, according to chief gay on the merits. My vote was to lobbyist Arline Isaacson, "we would protect 16,000 people and the unquestionably have lost such a . opportunity they have;' said Walsh, vote." In other words, the amendment supporters unquestionably had referring to the 8,000 same-sex couples who have married in the 50 votes necessary to advance Massachusetts. "I would much the amendment to the next stage (a similar vote in the next legislature) in rather have people upset with me on my vote than be pointed to say I was order to get on the ballot in 2008. part of taking a right away from The amendment's opporients had someone." a majority to recess, but not the 75 Guess what, Marty? The percent super-majority needed proposed amendment would not under the constitution to killl'the take any rights away from those initiative amendment by "final 16,000 people, unless, perhaps, it's action." By thus choosing to recess the ability to enter into a second gay instead, they deprived the tx!Ople of marriage after the effective date of their constitutional right to amend the amendment. But you and a the constitution. Notwithstanding majority of your colleagues, by that, Arline Isaacson now chhckles, voting to recess - rather than vote "It's over." on the merits - have deprived the It's not only Article 48 ofjthe more than 170,000 citizens who Constitution that they violated and signed the initiative amendment of continue to violate, but Article 7 as their right to vote on it, along with well. As John Adams wrote:in the Declaration of Rights, "Government the rest of us. By majority vote you and your fellow legislators have is instituted for the Common good; taken away the people's unquesfor the protection, safety, prdsperity and happiness of the people; and not tioned, "incontestible, unalienable and indefeasible right ... to reform, for the profit, honor, or privi楼 alter or totally change" government interest of anyone man, family or through the ballot.

Class of men. Therefore the people You accuse us of depriving alone have an incontestible, citizens of civil rights by majority unalienable, and indefeasible right to vote. Yet that is what you just did to institute govemment; and to reform, us. Could it be a case of projection, alter or totally change the sarpe, of claiming a splinter in the eye of when the protection, safety, . your brother while overlooking the prosperity and happiness require it." glaring plank in your own? FortuSo the gay lobby, and the nately for you, and for us, there's political hacks that do their bidding, time to repent. But if you, the cannot and must not deprive the lawmakers, can so easily violate people of their right to vote on this your oath to follow the constitution, question. Why should the one state where gay marriage is recognized be why should any of us mere citizens follow it? the only state where it cannot be put Dwight Duncan is a professor at to a vote of the people?

They claim that gay marriage is a Southem New England School of Law in Norlh Dartmouth. matter of civil rights, and that it is II

I:

,

8

The Anchor ,

NOVEMBER

24,2006

Do you say this on your own?

Our Gospel reading from St. John sets a tone of paradox for our reflection today: the fact is, having Jesus as King is not as simple as it might seem.

The scene set before us is very stark. There are only two speakers, Jesus and Pilate. In the background, of course, is the whole teeming drama of the Passion, laden with so many characters, with so many levels of symbol and meaning. But in the Gospel reading today for the Solemnity of Christ the King, everything is reduced to the minimum necessary, and that makes the scene even more dramatic and powerful.

Isn't it interesting to

note that Pilate actually by the opinions of others. another world.

We as Catholic ChrisPilate's answer, "I am no asks an excellent quesJew!," is testy and defentians are called contion of Jesus: Are you the King of the Jews? stantly to work towards sive and he ends his Though a very complex the building up of the outburst with another Kingdom of God on question: "What have man whose motives are earth. This means undoubtedly mixed, - - - -.......... for all of us a he asks this of generous service of Jesus to clarify r/ omily of the Week God and neighbor, what he has heard the constant and from the leaders of ~-- -_Christ the King the Jews and from unwearied exercise +BYj~搂ttt8rAB~W of the Christian the crowd itself.

Johnson, o.c.s.o. virtues, especially Jesus, as he of fafth, hope and almost always does, charity. But our Gospel answers a question with a you done?" Again, we today and indeed the have no direct answer question. Do you say this whole feast of Christ the on your own or have from Jesus. Now Jesus others told you about King reminds us that we gets to his main point. me? He knows already are driven in all our His kingdom is simply what is in Pilate's heart, efforts by supernatural not of this world, beand eternal realities. The but wants him to gain cause its subjects are self-knowledge, since he fleeing rather than fightthing we long most is a weak and wavering ing; and his kingship, deeply for, even on this man and is easily swayed like his kingdom, is of earth, is everlasting life, '-,

and that life can only be gained by a self-sacrificing love for God and his people. If we accept this, then Jesus is indeed our King. If we think we will derive some earthly gain by our service, he is decidedly not. He came into the world to testify to the truth and that meant his suffering and death just a few short hours after his interrogation by Pilate.

We can make Pilate's question our own: Is Jesus a King? Yes, of course. But he's a King who reigned from a cross before he ever reigned in heaven.

Father Johnson, o.c.s.o., is a parochial vicar at Our Lady ofthe Assumption in Osterville.

Upcoming Daily Readings: Sat, Nov 25, Rev 11:4-12; Ps 144:1-2,9-10; Lk 20:27-40. Sun, Nov 26, Thirty-fourth Sunday of ordinary time, Christ the King, Dn 7:13-14; Ps 93:1-2,5; Rv 1:5-8; In 18:33b-37. MOD, Nov 27, Rv 14:1-3,4b-5; Ps 24:1-6; Lk 21:1-4. 'files, Nov 28, Rv 14:14路19; Ps 96:10-13; Lk 21:5路11. Wed, Nov 29, Rv 15:1-4; Ps 98:1-3,7-9; Lk 21:12-19. Thurs, Nov 30, Andrew, A ostle, Rom 10:9-18; Ps 19:2-5; Mt 4:18-22. Fri, Dec 1, Rv 20:1-4,11-21:2; Ps 84:3-6,8; Lk 21:29-33.

300,000,000, on the way to 400,000,000 The 300,000,000th American was born (or naturalized) last month, and the usual suspects marked the occasion with the usual hand-wringing about America's allegedly heavy "ecological footprint;" somewhere, I'm sure, Paul Ehrlich was bemoaning profligate population increases and predicting environmental and economic catastrophe just around the corner - as Dr. Ehrlich has been predicting, with dogged regularity, for almost four decades. I suggest that the 300,000,000th American is cause for celebration. It's also a cause for reflection.

Celebration, because the United States is the only advanced industrial country with a growing population.

India may eventually prove the other exception to the rule, but

at the moment, we're it: everyone else in the global major leagues is depopulating, in some instances drastically.

Demographers now estimate that, when the 400,000,000th American becomes a citizen of the Great Republic c. 2050, 60 percent of Italians won't know, from personal experience, what a brother, sister, aunt, uncle, or cousin is; the Wall Street Journal recently reported a survey indicating that half of Italian women age 16-24 want no children. Other European states - Germany, Greece, and Spain prominent among them - are on the precipice of the demographic death-spiral, thanks to lower-than-low birth rates. This

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will lead, in the short term, to fiscal disaster (not enough taxpayers to fund all those guaranteed and government-sponsored European health care and

pension schemes). In the long run, it may lead to the Islamification of significant parts of Europe, not by conquest but by default ("Mohammad" is already the most popular name for newborn boys in Belgium and Holland, and it's among the name-game leaders in Great Britain).

As I argued in "The Cube and the Cathedral," this extraordinary depopulation is one expression of a crisis of civilizational morale - which in turn is one by-product of European high culture's rejection of the God of the Bible. Seems that, when you cease to believe in a world beyond this one, you can't be bothered with repopulating the world you live in. So if America is hanging in there with a replacement-level

birthrate, that suggests that British, French, Dutch, or we're not, as a country, stuck in Belgian law does not run. the European slough of deThen there is the question of spond (even if parts of blue language. Bilingualism is not, America are). historically, a prescription for That American birth national solidarity: witness rates are higher among Canada or Belgium. Englishrecent immigrants . language competence is, and suggests the challenge will remain, the entry ticket to implicit in population economic success in America growth: the challenge (some would argue that minimal of assimilating and English competence - can you acculturating large read a ballot? - should be a prenumbers of new requisite for participating in the citizens, many of political community by exercising whom come from different the franchise, but that's another cultural and linguistic orbits. argument for another day). I;m The United States has tradition- quite comfortable with certain ally done a good, if occasionbishops' insistence that their new ally rough-edged, job of this. priests learn Spanish; but as I told Continuing to do so requires us one bishop as he headed off to strengthen civic education: recently for an immersionthe U.S. is a proposition country, Spanish program, "The first thing and unless new Americans (and . you have to learn to say in the children of long-time impeccable Spanish is 'Learn Americans) learn the "proposiEnglish!'" tion" - and learn how to defend Notwithstanding the probit, intellectually - fault lines lems to be sorted out, the more will appear in our society, and important point is that America we'll forget what it is we're has retained the cultural and defending. Once again, look at moral vitality to create the the canary in the mine shaft, human future in the most a.k.a., Europe: Europe's failures elemental sense, by creating to foster a respect for western successor generations. Thus, a democratic values in its late hearty welcome to Mr. or Ms. 20th-century immigrants are a 300,000,000. We're glad you're principal reason why numerous here. parts of the continent are 21stGeorge Weigel is a senior century beachheads of the Arabfellow ofthe Ethks and Publk Islamic world where the writ of Polky Center in Washington, D.C.

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NOVEMBER

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The Anchor

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Purple, purple, pink, purple - or whatever Thursday 23 November 2006Homeport - American Thanksgiving Day In retirement, my Aunt Jeanne Goldrick was a prolific writer. At one point, she was cranking out a novel a month. Her Londonbased publisher was impressed by the exotic places she incorporated into her books. Aunt Jeanne knew these places from personal experience. fIer husband, Uncle Bob, was career military. The Colonel and she had lived allover the world. Aunt Jeanne went by the pen name "Emma." It was actually her real name, but who knew? By the way, my aunt wrote Harlequin

romances.

One day when I was a child, a package arrived from Germany. It was the Colonel and Aunt Jeanne's Christmas gift to me. It was a .

lovely ... a lovely ... what is this thing anyway? I had just seen my first Advent wreath.

The custom of the Advent wreath is ancient - pre-Christian, actually. It originated, they say,

among Celtic tribes in Europe.

When the harvest was completed, farmers would remove a wheel from the wagon. They wouldn't be needing it until spring. Spring seemed such a long way off. They wanted to do what they could to hasten the return of the sun. They I put candles on the wheel and lit them one by one, hoping the sun would get the idea that it should grow brighter. They also festooned the wheel with evergreens, anticipating that the trees would take the hint and flourish again. Then they hung the decorated wheel from the rafters and prayed that it would work. You just never knew. Anthropologists

Make your presence your present this Christmas educate our children in the We found footprints and During the past couple of ways of the Catholic faith at feathers left by seagulls and weeks, I've been writing about sand pipers. We traced the home. Chasing our wee ones the importance of educating our lowering of the tide by the around the living room, chasing children in the ways of the and racing our not-so-wee-one wave patterns left on the sand Catholic faith as well as in their down a sledding hill, and bars as the water receded. We ABCs and 123s. Because chasing down our spouse and detected the presence of fiddler celebrating the liturgical cozying up by a fire together; crabs by observing holes in the seasons of the Church at home these are the types of presents sandy banks of the salt marsh. is a wonderful teaching opporour family members tunity, I'd like to take a little side trip with this ....- - -__-_~__.,.,..-"':::iiii:::_-..... really ~eed, ~nd that we really need, too. week in order to My daughter, Lucy, welcome the seasons of will turn eleven this Advent and Christmas. year, but if I close my It has been my eyes I can still hear her experience that the best infectious giggle and gift we can give to our see her sun-kissed hair families at Christmas flying in the wind on or anytime is not a that glorious summer physical present, but our morning when she was three Raving pursued all theSe tangible presence in their lives. years old. It was one of those tracks, evidence of things living In the flurry of holiday preparaat the beach that we never deeply satisfying moments in tions, however, it is easy to actually saw, Lucy wanted time when everything seemed forget this basic notion. As a someone to pursue her, to keep right with the world. To reminder, I'd like to share a watch for and keep track of her, borrow a phrase from Luke story taken from my book, 2:51 about the Holy Mother too. She wanted to know, in "Making Peace with Motherher three-year-old way, that she . Mary's experiences of motherhood." It begins like this: was important enough to be ing Jesus, it is a memory that I " Mommy, will you keep will always "treasure in my looked for even after she was track of my footprints?' my heart." gone. three-year-old Lucy asked as I This Advent and Christmas, Leaving my beach chair set out my beach chair hoping fill the hearts of those you love behind, I gave Lucy my full for a minute to relax in the sun. attention. I raced all over the with the treasure of time spent "What do you mean?" I beach chasing my giggling together. It will fill your own asked back. daughter, keeping track of her heart, too. Make your presence "You know, Mommy! Like footprints, thereby letting her your greatest present recalling you did with the birds and the that the presence of the Baby know that she was important crabs," she explained trying to and very much loved.

Jesus at the first Nativity pull me out of my chair. When remains, for all time, the she mentioned the crabs, I *** greatest gift from God the I'm sure no present I will understood.

Father to us, his children here ever give Lucy.will be greater We had been the first ones to than the one given that mornon earth.

Next week we will arrive at the beach that bright, take a look at our child's faith ing, and it only cost me a little summer morning. It was one of formation in partnership with bit of time and focus. Being those beautiful, white sand non-Catholic grammar and present to family members, beaches on Cape Cod that had a middle schools. taking time to bake Christmas marvelous salt marsh just cookies and to share them with Heidi is an author, photogbehind the main beach. The rapher, and full-time mother. neighbors, hand-writing tide was fairly low and still She and her husband raise Christmas cards, or including a going out, so I had been . their five children in wayward teen in our Advent pointing out to the kids all of activities; these are some of the Falmouth. the animal tracks and ripples homegrownfaith@yahoo.com. opportunities we have to left on the sand.

9 call this "sympathetic magic."

Christians in Germany liked the wreath idea, especially those in the northern part of the country. They were, of course, not praying for the return of the sun but for the coming of the Son. So, as somebody is sure to ask, 'When do we light the pink candle, Father?" If you want to be a purist about it, you would have no pink candle. In fact, you would have no purple ones either. The original Advent wreaths sported white candles - sometimes red ones.

Some medieval Martha'Stewart got the idea of color-coordinating the candles of the wreath with the vestments of the day. So, purple, purple, rose (Gaudete SJnday) and purple. Now we think th~ color is mandatory, but that's not: so.

And here's another f~ct about the Advent wreath. It's a home custom. It's intended to tie the daily life of the family into what is going on in the Church. This is always a good idea.

The current Church prayer books acknowledge the custom of the Advent wreath. In the church, the wreath should be large and proportionate to the space. The nicest Advent wreath I ever saw was at Our Lady of the Cape Church in Brewster. It was huge.

It was suspended from the ceiling over the altar. The parish priest had commissioned a local blacksmith to design and craft the frame of the wreath in proportion to the . worship space.

During the four weeks of Advent, there is only one ceremony at the Advent wreath. It's the blessing of the wreath on the First Sunday of Advent, or on the evening before. On subsequent Advent Sundays, you just light the candle(s) without words or ceremony either beforehand or after the opening Mass prayer.

The blessing can take place at Evening Prayer, at a celebration of the Word, or within the context of Mass (after the General Intercessions).

The blessing can be done by a priest, a deacon, or lay person. The tradition is still to make the wreath as a circle of evergreens with four candles, although religious good stores have come up with all sorts of variations. Also, Church insurance companies and local fire chiefs get nervous about live evergreens and candles. If it's permitted by local ordinance, you need to keep a sharp eye on the Advent wreath. Make sure there is a fire extinguisher nearby.

Interestingly, the official instructions say you can use purple, purple, pink, purple if you want to - but you can also use four purple or four white. Whatever.

When using the Advent wreath in a home setting, it can be blessed by a parent or another member of the family. The suggestion is to use the opening prayer from Mass that day as you light the appropriate candles. A reading from the Bible is also recommended, as is an Advent hymn.

After the family had all grown up and moved away, my mother kept the custom of the Advent wreath. It would be, as always, in its place of honor on the dining room table. On the Saturdays of Advent, at sunset, my mother would light the candle and say a prayer. Although the seats around the table were now empty, somehow we were all present.

It's time once again to dig out my Advent wreath.

Father Goldrick is pastor ofSt. Bernard Parish, Assonet.

StBernardAssonet@aol.com.

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Rick Brigham: Modem-day Samaritan

By MIKE GORDON, ANCHOR STAFF he goes out and lives his life accordingly. He's a great HYANNIS - The 10th chapter of St. Luke's guy who loves Jesus and has made a lifetime of helpGospel, detailing the story of the Good Samaritan, is ing others." close to the heart of Rick Brigham. He is a modem The two have worked together on the Taste and day Good Samaritan, helping the stranger to find shel- See Cape Cod fund-raiser held at Our Lady of Victer and food at the inn through his many years of dedi- tory for several years. Money from the event helps cation to the No Other Available Housing (NOAH) fund the work of the NO~ Center. "It's been very Center and its clients. successful," said Father Hession. "Over the four years "I love helping people," said Brigham regarding we've raised more than $60,000, with $40,000 going his work helping the homeless on Cape Cod. "It is a to the cause of homelessness." privilege and an honor to be spending my time doing Before coming to NOAH, Brigham was a memthis. I find it very easy to love the people whom we ber of the Franciscan Order and that is how he came help. At an early age my mother instilled the value of to work with the less fortunate. helping those who are struggling or downtrodden, in "I remember seeing this elderly homeless person me and my siblings." sleeping on a grate as I commuted and I was moved One of six children, the 53-year-old Brigham is a by that. That changed me. God was tapping me on the Worcesternative. He and shoulder." he and his wife Elayne r - - - . . " . - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - , Around the same make their home i n ' time, Brigham read a _.~.. ": book by Dorothy Day Hyannis and are members of Our Lady ofViccalled "Loaves and hoF tory Parish. He has ...., ..... ~",..< Fishes" and that also inworked in some capacity L....L_-=-_~'-=__~ ~ fluenced him. for NOAH for the past 20 "I started volunteer-

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coordinator, but he has time parishes were being also served as its service encouraged to start up coordinator, director, shelters and I helped start :~.... llt the one at Holy Reshelter director and in several other capacities. deemer Pari sh in the The NOAH Center, Bronx. located at 77 Winter After that, Brigham touredEuropeasamemStreet in Hyannis, is a program of the Housing ber ofthe Covenant PlayAssistance Corporation \ ers Theater Group for a on Cape Cod. It is a 50year-and-a-half. "We did bed emergency shelter Christian-themed theater for men and women who and I would constantly are homeless. It provides see the homeless wheran evening meal, access ever we went," declared to showers, a bed, and Brigham. "God was breakfast to anyone nudging me." ! ,.'

Asked what motivates needing a place to stay.

It also assists clients ' t . ) ; ' " .. him and keeps him gowith employment assis' ". .;r-.. ..::::> ing, Brigham was quick RICK BRIGHAM to point out his Catholic tance, health issues and a variety of other topics faith. "Faith plays an through the help of local social service agencies, in enormous role in my life," said Brigham. "My wife an attempt to help each person find secure and per- and I pray together every moming." manent housing.

Brigham also served as the case manager for last "We are taking care of people who have been year's "In From the Cold Program," which now goes beaten by many things in life," said Brigham. ''NOAH by the name "In From the Street." The program asis a place where we can take care ofthe pressing needs sists homeless clients by putting them up in motel of the person and we must help all our brothers and rooms and giving them intensive case management sisters." in order to find permanent housing.

Those that typically seek shelter at NOAH are "Right now we don't have funds for it, but last people who have lost jobs, have battled alcohol or year we helped 25 clients. Ten of those were successdrug abuse, family problems, or mental illness. NOAH fully placed into permanent housing. "We want to get generally serves an average of 500 people during a people into permanent solutions and really help these year. folks."

"Our hope is to make the response to homelessness The program was funded by the town ofBamstable even better," said Brigham. 'We want to become more and the Diocese of Fall River who both put up donations of $10,000. St. Francis Xavier and Our Lady of efficient and help a greater number of people."

He added, "God wants us to give ofour abundance. the Assumption parishes were among those that helped The reason I do this is my faith. I'm very tied to my make it a success. relationship with him and Jesus makes a very direct 'When I see the transformations that happen to correlation to helping others." people it's very rewarding," said Brigham. "It reminds The shelter is open 16 hours daily, from 4:30 p.m. me of Matthew 25 when Jesus talks about what you until 8 am. the following morning. It is a non-profit do for the least of my brothers and sisters, you do for organization, receiving 54 percent of its budget from me." the state's Department of Transitional Assistance. The When he's not working, Brigham enjoys singing remaining 46 percent must be raised privately. One of and writing music. He is also busy on a work of ficits goals is to become a 24-hour shelter so it can focus tion. "I generally do seven to eight pages a week on it. more on "case management instead ofthe entrance and It's about a place where people are really living out exit of people," said Brigham. On average it costs a the Christian lifestyle. pledge of$45 to support one night for a client at NOAH. If you want to help the NOAH Center you can Father Mark R. Hession, pastor of Our Lady of find out more information by calling 508-778-5255 Victory Parish, has been impressed by the efforts of oremailRickatrbrigham@haconcqpecod.org. They his parishioner in helping the homeless. are always in need of volunteers and donors. They "One could not find a person more committed to will hold their third annual Telethon "Homefor the the cause of his brothers and sisters," said Father Holiday," December 20 from 5-9 p.m. It will be on Hession. "He listens to the Gospel message and then local access television throughout Cape Cod.

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THE RIGHT IDEA - A Knights of Columbus "Keep Christ in Christmas" sign is posted behind a Nativity scene on the front lawn of a home in Seaford, N.Y. last Christmas season. (CNS photo)

Christmas think this country has never had a Stalin or a Mussolini? It's fabulous that we have Christ in our lives most Americans do, but we don't discriminate against those who don't."

It was seeing the public expression of Christmas all but outlawed that motivated the friends, who have put their private lives on hold for the cause. "We want our kids to be able to celebrate Christmas," said Robert Marley, a 48-year-old father offour.

The trio recalled that Boston's Christmas tree narrowly escaped being renamed a holiday tree last year. With their families, they discussed the time and effort this venture would take. Then they contacted the media and dove into what's become known as the Christmas Wars.

"Help us thwart the imminent abolition ofChristmas," they urge on their Website.

"I'm always telling my kids not to cave into peer pressure," said Marley, who describes himself as a "field marshal type" organizer.

His marching orders to consumers: "Don't sit back and complain.

It takes five minutes. Pick up the phone, go online, find a company's CEO and barrage him with emails.

"This can't be done by just three guys," he said. "Forget politics. The entire Christian community is on the same page with this. Peoplejust have to stand up."

Their Website is straightforward.

There's an introduction, news updates, links to articles on Christmas traditions, and contact numbers.

(Their phone is 781-595-1611.)

"Shop away!" the coalition recommends on a page listing Christmas-friendly stores. "Scrooge" stores are on another page, and both lists are updated regularly as retailers take notice.

Originally all 15 Simon Malls in Massachusetts were possible picket sites. One by one, each shopping center that had not been Christmasfriendly has changed its policy.

Marketing Director Chris Bastien

Continued from page one

said November 16 that at the Emerald Square Mall in North Attleboro, employees will be instructed to say "Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays." Santa will deliver the dual message as well.

The same procedure is in place at the Cape Cod Mall in Hyannis, Marketing Director Adra Lynn said.

A picket planned for the Square One Mall in Saugus November 25 was cancelled after mall management evidently got the message, Channel 5 news reported the morning after the coalition's first public meeting in Lynnfield November 15.

Marley said the other Simon Malls that have said they will definitely acknowledge Christmas expression are: Auburn Mall, Auburn; Copley Place, Boston; South Shore Plaza, Braintree, Northshore Mall, Peabody; Liberty Tree Mall, Danvers; Burlington Mall, Burlington; the Mall at Chestnut Hill and the Atrium Mall, both in Newton; Solomon Pond Mall, Marlborough; Arsenal Mall, Watertown; Greendale Mall, Worcester; and Wrentham Village Premium Outlets.

Individual retailers are another story. Marley said that Target and Sears have "Merry Christmas" signs up and Wal-Mart and Macy's have "surrendered."

However, Best Buy has banned the use of "Merry Christmas" in its advertising and the Mississippibased American Family Association is urging a national boycott.

"Bed, Bath and Beyond hung up on us, and we got one big runaround from Toys 'R Us," he added.

"They're our next priority."

"Our objective is not to reeducate America about why we celebrate Christmas or to diminish anybody else's holiday," he concluded. "We don't offend anybody. We're the core customer group, and the silent majority is silent no more. We won't stop, but this has to be everybody's effort."

Gail Besse writes from Hull, Mass. She can be reached at gailbesse@comcast.net.

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The Anchor ,

1111 archimandrite said. "May we all stand together, brothers and sisters, holding tight the keys of heaven."

Cardinal 1. Francis Stafford, a Baltimore native and special envoy of Pope Benedict XVI, read a letter written by the pope expressing the importance of communication among religions. :, "This meeting is truly the fruition of dialogue," read the cardinal, a former auxiliary bishop of Baltimore who is head of the Apostolic Penitentiary, a Vatican court dealing with matters of conscience.

During another ev~nt at the newly restored basilica, more than 800 youths and adults participated in a November 11 youth Mass, followed by a lighting display that was a tribute to freedom of religion.

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A BEACON IN THE NIGHT - The newly restored Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Baltimore is seen illuminated after a youth Mass November 11. More than 800 youths and adults attended the liturgy followed by a tribute of lights celebrating freedom of religion. (eNS photo/Owen Sweeney III, Catholic RevieW)

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By GEORGE P.

MATYSEK JR. CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

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Tour th~ gracious rooms of this Queen Anne home, view Bill Hendel's extensive collection of creches from around the world - put the Christ back in Christmas view the winter art show presented by Gallery 333, and enjoy speciailloliday music from local musicians.

Dome of the Invalids in Paris.

The two tower bells were made

by Joseph Frere Jean of Lyon, and the original altar was a gift in 1821 from priests from Marseilles, France, to their former teacher, Archbishop Ambrose Marechal, the third archbishop of Baltimore.

Other French connections at the basilica include the tower clock in-

nary in Baltimore. Sulpician Father Lawrence Terrien, superior general of the Sulpicians, came from Paris BALTIMORE - Bells rang sito celebrate the Mass. multaneously in Baltimore and Lyon, France, during a November On November 9, about 700 people of various faith communi10 ceremony marking the special American-French connection in the ties, including Jewish, Muslim, Greek Orthodox, Catholic and Afestablishment of the Basilica of the rican Methodist Episcopal repreNational Shrine of the Assumption sentatives, gathered at the Baltiof the Blessed Virgin Mary.

In honor of the basilica's more basilica to celebrate rebicentennial, the French-cast ligious freedom in an interrebells inside the basilica's "I'm so proud of the young people ligious prayer service.

"This building has stood twin towers tolled 200 times who have gathered here today," said while their counterparts rang Cardinal Keeler, who concelebrated for the ideal of religious freeat the same time at the Ca- the Mass with Baltimore's auxiliary dom," said Cardinal Keeler. thedral of St. John the BapAfter a reading from the bishops. "The light of faith in Jesus tist and the Notre Dame BaHebrew Scriptures, Rabbi Christ that you bring through the Elan Adler of the Moses silica of Fourviere in Lyon. darkness is most exciting to this dio- Montefiore Anshe Emunah The celebration of the cese," he added. basilica's ties to France was Congregation in Baltimore, one of several events that spoke about how all faiths are took place in conjunction connected in God. with the reopening of the church stalled in 1866 that was made by a "We share a common interest in after a massive $32 million resto- railway clock contractor for the the unshakeable love of God,'''' he ration. There was also an interfaith French government and several said. service November 9 and a youth large oil paintings commissioned Imam Earl EI-Amin, resident for the cathedral and painted in imam at the Muslim Community Mass November 11.

Standing on the basilica portico France.

Cultural Center of Baltimore, read Baltimore Cardinal William H. from the Quran and spoke of God's beneath flags of the United States and France, French Consul General Keeler gave Allex a tour of the re- ability to help each person work for Jean-Pierre Allex said he was proud stored basilica, pointing out the peace, prosperity and equality. that France had made contributions many French donations. The two After a reading from the New toward "one of the most important were also present for the Novem- Testament, Greek Orthodox architectural and historical land- ber 10 inaugural Mass in Our Lady Archimandrite Constantine Seat of Wisdom Chapel, located in Moralis, dean of the Greek Orthomarks in the United States."

In designing a double-shelled the undercroft of the basilica. dox Cathedral of the Annunciation The chapel's construction was a in Baltimore, said the foundation of dome for the basilica, Benjamin Henry Latrobe, the basilica's archi- gift of the Sulpicians, an interna- faith cannot be shaken. tect, was inspired by the examples tional order of priests based in "God said: 'I give you the keys of Ste. Genevieve Church and the France who run St. Mary's Semi- to 'the kingdom of heaven,'" the

"I'm so proud of the young people who have gathered here today," said Cardinal Keeler, who concelebrated the Mass with Baltimore's auxiliary bishops.

"The light of faith in Jesus Christ that you bring through the darkness is most exciting to this diocese," he added.

At the end of the liturgy, participants walked outside to view the first exterior lighting of the basilica since 1871.

Two Maryland residents, world figure skating champ Kimmie Meissner and Marine Sgt. Christopher Funk, an Iraq War veteran, led the countdown for the lighting to be turned on, which was followed by a sound and fireworks display.

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The Anchor ,

NOVEMBER

24,2006

eNS video reviews NEW YORK (CNS) - The following are capsule reviews ofnew and recent DVD and video releases from the Office for Film & Broadcasting of the U.S. Conference ofCatholic Bishops.

'7he Green Mile: Two-Disc Special Edition" (1999) Prison drama set in 1935 Louisiana where a death-row head guard (Torn Hanks) comes to believe in the innocence ofa huge, gentle black man (Michael Clarke Duncan) whose miraculous healing powers affect those around him in startling ways. As adapted by director Frank Darabont from the serialized 1996 Stephen King novel, the movie is unduly long but presents affecting character studies of good and evil men with spiritual undertones and a sobering depiction of capital punishment. Some violence including a horrific electrocution, occasional profanity and intermittent rough language. The anamorphic DVD includes a couple of deleted scenes, including an incredibly touching one where Hanks prays with Duncan; commentary by Darabont; and an extensive six-part documentary.

The USCCB Office for HIm & Broadcasting classification isA-ill - adults.

The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R - restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian (Warner Horne Video).

"Joyeux Noel" (''Merry Christmas") (2006) futensclymovingWoodWarItale of soldiers - Scottish, French and German - who spontaneously agree to a cease-fire on the Western front on Christmas Eve as they hear carols wafting from the enemy's trenches, intermingle and bond on ahumanistic level, to the eventual disdain of their superiors. Writer-directorChristian Carion's film, inspired by true events, is sensitively acted (by an international cast including Guillaume Canet, Daniel Bruhl and Benno Furrnann) and conveys a powerful message about the senselessness of war, while there is an

admirable religious underpinning in the character of a dedicated Anglican priest (Gary Lewis) who brings everyone together for a liturgy on that special night. Partially in English, partially subtitled. Battlefield violence with death, some profanity and crude language, and a discreet husband-wife bedroom scene. The anamorphic DVD includes commentary by Carion as well as a IS-minute interview. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-IT - adults and adolescents. Not rated by the Motion PictureAssociation ofAmerica (Sony Classics). ''Sophie Scholl: The Final Days" (2006)

Gripping true-life drarna chronicling the final six days in the life of Sophie Scholl (Julia Jentsch), a 21year-old German college student executed by the Nazis in 1943 after being arrested for distributing anti-war leaflets at her university, detailing her ordeal from her three-day cross-examination by a Gestapo interrogator (Alexander Held), to her mock trail and execution. Unvarnished by oversentirnentality, director Marc Rothemund's film is a quietly powerful testament to bravery in the face of evil that examines themes offreedom ofconscience and peaceful resistance to tyranny while imparting a strong anti-war message. Mature thematic clements, including suggested death by guillotine. The double-sided anamorphic DVD also contains deleted and alternate scenes (with a few crass expressions); behind-the-scenes production footage; and candid interviews with Scholl's sister, the son ofScholl's Gestapo interrogator, and a member of ''The White Rose," the student resistance group to which Scholl belonged; as well as a brief clip of rare trial footage. The movie and bonus features are subtitled. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-IT - adults and adolescents. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association of America (Zeitgeist).

LIFE TEEN announces new Catholic podcast

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MESA, AZ - LIFE TEEN, an international Catholic youth organization announces that it is now producing a Catholic podcast entitled "Sunday, Sunday, Sunday".

This free podcast is a weekly preparation for the upcoming Sunday Catholic Mass readings, hosted by the Bible Geek速, Mark Hart.

Podcasts are part of LIFE TEEN's ongoing commitment to provide relevant resources to help lead teens closer to Christ. "We're excited to know the Gospel is being heard, whether it is in a church, on the street corner, or on their iPod," says Matt Smith, director of futernet Ministries for LIFE TEEN. fu its first day, the "Sunday, Sun-

day, Sunday" podcast was the number one Christian download and the number three Religion and Spirituality download. To access the LIFE TEEN "Sunday, Sunday, Sunday" podcast search for "lifeteen.com" in itunes or another mp3 catcher.

LIFE TEEN, Inc. was founded in 1985 and is an international Catholic movement that serves the Church by providing resources and faith experiences that help lead teens closer to Christ. This is accomplished through a vibrant Eucharistic spirituality and by creating widespread opportunities for teens to grow in their faith. For more information on LIFE TEEN, visit www.lifeteen.com/press.

FAMILIAR STORY - Keisha Castle-Hughes, center, stars in a scene from the movie ''The Nativity Story." For a brief review of this film, see CNS Movie Capsules below. (CNS photo/New Line)

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ICaIIV~UlllleS NEW YORK (CNS) - The following are capsule reviews of movies recently reviewed by the Office for Film & Broadcasting ofthe U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

'7he Cave of the Yellow Dog" . (Tartan) Gentle tale that chronicles the daily life of a family of nomadic Mongolian sheepherders and centers on a young girl's efforts to conceal a stray puppy she found, defying her father's orders forbidding her from keeping the dog. Once again using indigenous, nonprofessional actors (all are real nomads), director Byambasuren Davaa blends documentary and narrative storytelling less successfully than in her previous effort, ''The Story of the Weeping Camel." Despite virtually no plot, she nevertheless manages to craft a simple yet lovely and gracefully shot fable that explores themes of family bonds and modernity's encroachment into traditional ways of life. Though underpinned by a cyclical Buddhist spirituality - particularly its central belief in reincarnation - the story and its affirmation of the supreme value of human life should resonate with Catholic viewers. Subtitles. The scene of a dead sheep being skinned may upset very young children. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-I - general patronage. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association ofAmerica.

"One Night With the King" (Gener8Xion Entertainment) Biblical drama that tepidly recounts

the Old Testament story ofEsther (Tufany DuPont), adevoutJewish maiden who becomes a queen when she is chosen as the bride of the powerful Persian King Xerxes (Luke Goss), and who uses her station to save her people from extermination by dissuading her husband from ordering the slaughter urged by a vengeful court adviser (James Callis). Based on Tommy Te.nney's novel "Hadassah," the film has impressive production value and cameos by Oscar-pedigreed actors like Ornar Sharif and Peter O'Toole, but it's handicapped by an inferior screenplay by Stephan ~).inn - which makes some changes to the story and awkward, if earnest, direction by Michael Sajbel. Still, the power ofthe tale's enduring theme of faithful witness in the face of persecution isn't completely diminished by the filmmaker's uninspired telling. Some discreet violence and sensuality and mature thematic elements. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-IT - adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association ofAmerica rating is PG - parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children.

'7he Nativity Story" (New Line) Dramatization of the New Testa-

ment birth narratives from the Annunciation to the birth of Jesus, focusing on the relationship between Mary (Keisha Castle-Hughes) and Joseph (Oscar Isaac) and their arduous trek from Nazareth to Bethlehem, with subplots tracking the joumey of the three Magi and the efforts of King Herod (Ciaran Hinds) to prevent the prophecy of a messiah from coming to pass. A composite of the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, embroidered with apocryphal traditions and the imagination of the filmmaker, the Bible story gets the prestige treatment in director Catherine Hardwicke's artful, reverent and affecting retelling, with soulful performances from an excellent international cast - including Shohreh Aghdashloo as Elizabeth - and impressive production design.

Mike Rich's screenplay manages to flesh out Mary and Joseph while remaining faithful. to Scripture, poignantly suggesting the humanity beneath the halos. Some violent images. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-Igeneral patronage. The Motion Picture Association ofAmerica rating is PG - parental guidance suggested.

Some material may not be suitable for children.

Diocese of Fall River TV Mass on WLNE Channel 6 Sunday, November 26 at 11:00 a.m.

Scheduled celebrant is Father Roger J. Landry, pastor of St. Anthony of Padua Parish in New Bedford and executive editor of The Anchor

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The Anchor ,

Cape roundtable cites diocese's role in rescuing homeless SPECIAL TO THE ANCHOR

start of the harshest part of the winter. Deacon Murphy of St. Francis 'Tho dozen homeless people sur- of Assisi, Hyannis was an early vived last winter because of the champion of this endeavor.

For as little as $146 per week the timely help of the Catholic Church," said Rick Brigham of No Other collaboration was able to house 25 Available Housing (NOAH) at of the most desperate among the Barnstable's second Roundtable on homeless for 12 of the coldest weeks Homelessness. ''Eighteen of those of the year.

As a result of intense supportive we brought in from the streets are now in far better circumstances than social work, 10 of those people went they were then. The support of to permanent housing, four went to Bishop Coleman and the advocacy specialized residential placements, of Deacon Robert J. Murphy were two were reunited to live with family members, and only six went back literally lifesavers," he concluded.

Providers of services to Cape to the streets.

Last year's success of using disCod's homeless, for the second year in a row, are grappling with the prob- persed placements, such as area molem of finding someplace to house tels, along with interagency collabopeople who have been living outside ration, has service providers planning to intensify both these elements since last spring.

This year's mild fall has encour- this year.

During their presentations at the aged people to remain in illegal camps later in the season. Many second planning roundtable, both among the homeless also overnight Brigham and Claire Goyer of Duffy on the streets, in alleys, under stair- Health Center underscored the imwells, and other semi-protected portance of the partnerships of places. A few have access to auto- Bishop Coleman and the Town of mobiles, which become their shel- Barnstable in ensuring the success of last year's effort. ter of last resort.

"I think it was the hand of God . With close to 800 homeless individuals and only about 100 emer- working through the bishop that gency shelter beds, winter on the wrote that first check," Brigham Cape can be deadly for these among commented. "It came just as we were beginning the think that we our sisters and brothers.

While there are also more than' could never keep the program go150 homeless families comprising ing after January."

In addition to the bishop's core 400 people, families tend to spend. far less time homeless than do indi- gift, Our Lady of Victory in viduals, and have access to a more Centerville, St. Francis of Assisi in appropriate range of housing op- Hyannis, and Our Lady of the Assumption parishes also provided imtions.

Last year a. consortium of agen- portant financial support.

The former Secretary for Social cies came together to make a concerted effort to bring homeless indi- Services ofthe Archdiocese ofBosviduals in from the cold, before the ton, Dr. Doolin lives on Cape Cod.

BY DR. JOSEPH DOOLIN

Novena for Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception scheduled WAREHAM - A nine-day novena in honor of Our Blessed Mother . will begin November 30 at 7 p.m. at St. Patrick's Church. It is being held in preparation for the holy day of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, patroness ofthe United States, aswell as for Advent and Christmas.

Each evening will begin at 7 p.m. and will include exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Evening Prayer, a spiritual talk, and Benediction ofthe Blessed Sacrament. Each talk will center on titles of Mary from the Litany ofLoreto and how one can live different aspects of their faith better. Confessions will also be available from 6:25-6:50 each evening.

Clthedral 'l.eOrull Bel8llCllr SIUght The committee to re-establish a pipe organ at St. Mary's Cathedral is seeking a benefactor (whether individual, family, or organization) to make a major contribution toward the building of a pipe organ which has long been absent at the Cathedral. The instrument would be named in honor of the donor or someone designated by the donor.

The committee has had a good measure of success with its fund-raising but is now in need of a major donation to complete the task. The instrument will be in use frequently for diocesan celebrations and for parish liturgies. An additional benefit will be its use for concert performances of sacred music for the community. Interested parties may contact the Cathedral rector, Rev. Paul Bernier, 327 Second St., Fall River, MA 02721.

Contributions or pledges of any amount will b~ gratefully received.

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HIGH SCHOOL

The schedule of speakers and topics is as follows: November 30, Father Kevin Cook, Mother of Christ; December 1, Father John Murray, Queen of All Saints; December 2, Deacon Bill Martin, Mother Most Lovable; December 3, Father Nick Nichols, Mother Most Pure; December 4, Father Hugh McCullough, Cause of Our Joy; December 5, Father Richard WIlson, Refuge of Smners; December 6, Father John Ozug, Queen of Peace; December 7 Father Bill Campbell, Queen of the Family.

On December 8 Joanne Mongeon will speak on themysteries ofthe rosary at 6:30 p.m. Mass will becelebrated at 7 p.m. by Father Arnie Medeiros.

Saturday, December 2nd 7:45 a.m.-ll:30 a.m.

Main Classroom Building Please bring the $20.00 exam fee (cash or check made payable to BFHS) and two #2 pencils.

NO CALCULATORS.

No Pre-registration Necessary.

Our Lady of Fatima to Sister Lucia, Blessed Jacinta and Blessed Francisco July 13, 1917 "I shall come to ask for the consecration of Russia to my Immaculate Heart, and the Communion of Reparation on the First Saturdays. If my requests are heeded, Russia will be converted, and there will be peace. If not, she will spread her errors throughout the world, causing wars and persecutions of the Church. The good will be martyred, the Holy Father will have much to suffer, various nations will be annihilated. In the end, my Immaculate Heart will triumph. The Holy Father will consecrate Russia to me, and she will be converted, and a period of peace will be granted to the world. In Portugal, the dogma of the Faith will always be preserved, etc."

Paid advertisement

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508-226-1731 70 Halcott Drive Attleboro, MA www~'tt~shopfee~om

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The Anchor ,

Carneys receive philanthropy award . .

NORTH DARTMOUTH - The New England Association of Catholic Development Officers awarded Patrick and Lillian Carney of North Dartmouth, President and Chairman of Claremont Companies in Bridgewater, with The Outstanding Catholic Philanthropists Award for their extraordinary generosity to Bishop Stang High School.

William MacNeill, Founder of NEACDO and Suzanne Burke, director of Development at Bishop Stang High School nominated the Carneys.

MacNeill said: "Patrick and Lillian Carney have been active supporters of Catholic education for many years. Pat

is a graduate of Bishop Stang High School and Lillian of St: Mary's School now Coyle and Cassidy High School. Their children have attended Catholic schools. ''In addition to their very generous financial support ofBishop Stang, the Cameys have played an active role in advancing the school. Pat and Lil are members of Stang's Board of Advisors and have been involved for many years in various capacities in support of the school. Pat was chairman of Stang's successful Capital Campaign.

He was a founder of the St. Mary's Scholarship Fund, which provides financial supportfor students in the Fall

River Diocese.

"Both Pat and Lil are active in many charitable and civic activities in the South Coast area. In addition to her involvement with Bishop Stang and Coyle and Cassidy, Lil taught CCD for many years at St. Mary Parish in South Dartmouth. She founded a thrift shop in New Bedford, which contributes thousands of dollars each year to child and family services in that community.

'The Carney's exceptional effort on behalfofBishop Stang andotherCatholic educational causes makes themmost worthy recipients of the Catholic Philanthropists oftheYear Award"

Our readers respond Legislators versus the people We have seen how the voters have decided to ban same sex-marriage in many states. This past election in eight states where the people had a opportunity to ban or accept same sex-marriage the people decided to ban same-sex marriage in seven of those eight states. This is democracy. I have been told in many occasions that democracy is respecting the will of the people. Let the people vote on the issue. What is it called when politicians does not respect the will of its constituents?

No matter how you perceive this matter Massachusetts has become an anarchy. While the rest of the nation stands :firm on God values, the politicians in this state continue to promote what they call civil rights over the will of the majority of the Massachusetts electorate.

EdwinAldarondo New Bedford

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Massachusetts needS Minutemen again This year we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of John F. Kennedy's book, ''Profiles in Courage." Sadly, his political party has just demonstrated "Profiles in Courage." Having switched the Constitutional Convention from summer to two days after the November elections, they have now convened without allowing the people of Massachusetts to vote on the definition of marriage. George Orwell wrote, "History is full of ignominious" getaways by the great and famous."

Ironically, this is the state where the Minutemen and the patriots put their lives on the line because the King of England refused to allow the people in the colonies to vote. Fortunately, there is a way to overcome this action if the people of Massachusetts will follow the example of the people of Ohio.

Primarily one political party had controlled Ohio - in their case it was the Republican Party. They had become arrogant and corrupt. This month, the people of Ohio voted them out.

In Massachusetts, we need courageous young men and women who will be our modern day Minutemen and Minutewomen. They need to begin now to plan and organize so that in 2008 every congressman and senator will face a challenger on the ballot. These challengers will be united in one goal, "Vote the incumbents out because they would not let the people of .Massachusetts vote." The issue tranScends political parties and it transcends how someone would vote on the issue.

Lawrence E. Jones Taunton

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Questions on Faithful Citizenship

dren in Iraq? Should we not look at a candidate's record of voting on issues of social justice ... minimum wage ... civil rights ... respect for human dignity ... indeed, respect for all forms of human life? Should I be denied Communion because I vote for Kerry? Or should I be denied Communion because I vote for Bush? Or should I be denied Communion for conscientiously voting for anyone?

Edward J. Scahill, Jr. Mashpee

MuIling citizenship's moral obligations Your editorial "How Should Catholics Vote?" on October 20 reflected the sharp elbowed politics now taking place within the American Catholic Church, including within the hierarchy. On one side arethose who claim that "real" Catholics can only vote for political candidates who are prepared to repeal Roe v. Wade and then battle for the criminalization of abortion in each ofthe several states. This means that in many elections, including this year's governor's race in Massachusetts, a "real" Catholic cannot vote. They hold this position as non-negotiable, that is essential to the moral integrity of the Church and each of its members. If people who hold this view are serious, and they rarely are, they are simply irresponsible. But it is really a posture more than a policy: they have not thought through its consequences for the community - almost all candidates who meet their rigid criteria are Republicans, and many of them are simply wrong on many other matters but they hope that if the position is stated often and loudly enough it will restore Catholic morale. This group is relatively small but now dominates discussion in Church circles. Their opponents are those who try to maintain the "consistent ethic of life" long associated with the leadership of Joseph Cardinal Bernardin of Chicago. That position shaped election year statements by the U.S. hierarchy from 1976 until "Faithful Citizenship" of 2004. It seeks to uphold Church teaching on matters of economic justice, war, immigration, global poverty and many other issues as well as abortion. On that issue it seeks constructive positions such as the bundle of proposals known as 95/10 promoted by a bipartisan coalition of Pro-Life congressmen and women designed to dramatically reduce the number of abortions. It is tragic that so many Catholic public servants in our state are unthinkingly pro-choice. All of us can share some of the blame for that, but bishops and Catholic ideologues who never think through the moral obligations of citizenship are part of the problem, not part of the solution.

David J. O'Brien College of the Holy Cross

In response to your October 20 editorial on how

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Catholics should vote, I guess that we should vote for the candidates who are against same-sex marriage and against abortion under any circumstance. Also, we should dutifully be against stem-cell research. But, shouldn't we be against same-sex pedophilia also? Can we protect the sanctity of life and also be against the U.S. presence-in Iraq? Shouldn't we be for the "right to life" of thousands of innocent men, women and chil-

Letters are wekome but the editor reserves the right to

condense or editfor clarity ifdeemed necessary. Letters should be typed, IW longer than 1()() words and should include name, address, and telephone number. Letters do IWt necessarily rejkct the editorial views ofThe Anchor. Letters should be sent to: The Anchor, Letters to the Editor, P.O. Box 7, Fall River, MA 02722-0007, or emailed to fatherrogerlandry@anchomews.Org.

NOVEMBER

24,2006

â&#x20AC;˘ The Anchor news briefs Islamic hackers fail to disrupt Vatican Website (CWNews.com) - For the second time in as many months, computer hackers affiliated with a radical Islamic group tried and failed to penetrate the Vatican Website, the Italian AGI news service reports. Islamic militants who identified themselves as "leaders of the electronic jihad" announced on their own internet sites that they would launch a "largescale battle" against the Vatican site this week, in response to what they saw as insults against Islam by Pope Benedict XVI. The exact form of the attack was not explained. According to the AGI news story, an attack was launched on November 9, but thwarted by security measures on the Vatican site. A similar effort to disrupt the Vatican internet site was made in October'-':' again without any significant effect. The Vatican Websiteone of the busiest on the internet- has tight security measures in place, informed sources say. And Vatican computer-security personnel had ample warning of the Islamic hackers' plans.

French poll shows support for traditional Mass (CWNews.com) - Although French Catholic bishops have said that the faithful would oppose wider use of the Tridentine rite, a poll ofFrench Catholics has found that nearly two-thirds would like to have the choice of attending a traditional Latin Mass. When asked whether Catholics should have a choice between the Novus Ordo Mass and a traditional liturgy, 65 percent ofFrench Catholics answered that they should, while another 22 percent said they did not care; only 13 percent opposed the idea. Among the 1,000 people surveyed, 60 percent said that they would attend a Mass celebrated in Latin with Gregorian chant, at least occasionally. The survey was conducted by the CSA Institute, an established French polling firm, on behalf of the Catholic group Paix Liturgique.

Kenyan bishops urge boost in security amid recent violence NAIROBI, Kenya - Kenya's Catholic bishops have urged the government to step up security and arrest politicians preaching ethnic hatred that has led to violence. The bishops said in a recent statement that Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki's government was reluctant to deal with the violence. The bishops urged politicians to speak only life-giving words.

"Discriminatory remarks about other individuals and ethnic groups can kill," they said. "On the other hand, the word spoken with respect can give life, bring reconciliation and build unity." Seven people were killed in Kuresoi in the Rift Valley province, where clashes in 1992 killed dozens and displaced thousands. Eight people also were killed in early November in Nairobi's slums after days of violence between rival gangs.

Kenya was marred by internal ethnic conflict between 1992 and 1997 Archbishop denies asylum request from Oaxaca protest leaders MEXICO CITY - The Catholic Church has denied asylum for leaders of a protest movement that has shaken the southern state of Oaxaca for five months. Oaxaca Archbishop Jose Chavez Botello said the Church did not have the means or the resources to protect the activists, whose central demand is the resignation of the state's governor. ''Ensuring the physical safety of these people is the responsibility of the government," Archbishop Chavez said. The movement's leaders say they are the targets of persecution by state authorities. Fearful for their lives, five prominent members spent several nights in Oaxaca City's cathedral in early November before officially asking for the Church's protection. While denying the activists' requests for asylum, Archbishop Chavez pledged the Church would remain neutral. "The Church will never take sides in the conflict," he said. "(We have) worked to bring the principal actors together, to help relieve the tension and achieve steps toward a peaceful solution."

Canadian religious leaders affirm marriage as a heterosexual union aITAWA - More than 40 religious leaders, including the president of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, have signed a declaration on marriage, affirming its role as a heterosexual social institution for the procreation and nurturing of children. In advance of a vote in Parliament later this year, the religious leaders urged politicians to reopen the debate on marriage in a way that treats all sides respectfully.

The churches said in the declaration that they need "language to express their principles and beliefs along with freedom to promote and foster )Vays of living that have stood the test of time." They asked how they "can promote an institution when the identifying language has been stripped of its real meaning, has been legally redefined and means different things to different people." The marriage declaration was signed

by Archbishop Andre Gaumond of Sherbrooke, Quebec, president of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, and representatives of Protestant, Evangelical, Muslim, Orthodox and Druze churches and alliances.

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Pope says unequal distribution of resources must end to stop famine Pope Benedict said, "Cer- children to say grace before · tainly the structural causes meals so that they learn not to VATICAN CITY ~ If famin.e linked to the system of gover- take God's gifts for granted.

Christians need to make sure and malnutrition are to be allevi- 'nance of the world economy, ated, funneling most of the which allocates the majority of "no one lacks what is necessary earth's resources to a select few the planet's resources to a minor- to live," he said, adding that the must end~ and individuals need to ity of the population, need to be earth's resources are God's gift "to the whole human family." adopt less con~umeristlifestyles, '. eliminated."

He' asked everyone to make , The pope said to make a large J;>ope Benedict XVI saie!.

The unjust distribution of the enough impact on the growing concrete efforts "to beat the world's resources not only ere" tragedy of hunger and environ- scourge of hunger" and "promote ates "the scandal of hunger," it mental and energ'y crises "it is justice and solidarity around the also plays a role in today's envi~ necessary to convert the model world."

Meanwhile, Cardinal Renato ronmental 'and energy crises, the o( global development" to one pope said during his November that is more just, equitable and Martino, president of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, 12 An8e[us address in St. Peter's sustainable.

Square.

Individuals and families also said the widening gap between More than 860 million people , "must do something to alleviate. rich andpopr is "intolerable for around the world suffer from · hunger in the world (by) adopt- humanity." , A recent report released by the malnutrition, and "too many ing style of life and consump- ' people, especially children, die of · tion that is compatible with safe- U.N. Development Program said hunger," the pope said. guarding creation" and treats the total annual income of the richest 500 people of the world Every five seconds a child dies' farmers fairly, he said. from starvation, according to the The pope's appeal came the is greater than the total annual inU.N. Food and Agricultural Or- day Italian Catholics celebrate come of the poorest 416 million' . people. ganization. thanksgiving.

Such gaps between' "those Jacques Diouf, head of the.'

He said the faithful need to U.N. organization, said the num- ~'get into the habit of thanking who lack the necessary means and others who lavishly waste' ber of people who go hungry is the Creator for everything" them" must be erased, Cardinal in~reasing by four million each even for air and water. year.

He urged families to teach Martino .said during a recent

By CAROL GLATZ CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

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meeting on world food security at U.N. Food arid Agricultural Organization headquarters in Rome. . '. .11 He urged governments and • po 1"ICles to promote a economIC more equitable 'sflaring of re,II sources" including ftrue agrarian reform," since "inI some . countries, only one percent of the I . population controlsl 50 percent of the land."

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The Vatican's foreigt:' affairs minister, Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, denounced the wealthiest countries' exploitation' of the poorest countries. Africa is particul~rly exploited, he said in a recent speech released by the Vatican: Rich countries that benefit from African resources must remember to redistribute equitably the wealth they are reaping, he said.

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Bishops urge .nonpartisan talks o~'responsible transition' in Iraq

By NANCY FRAZIER O'BRIEN CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

The statement expressed hope States and its coalition partners that the Iraq Study Group would have a moral obligation to conBALTIMORE - In a state~ "help bring abo)lt th~ honest dia- tinue and intensify efforts with· ment endorsed by the full body logue that our nation needs." ,Iraqis, other countries in the re"The administration and the gion and the international comof bishops gathered in Baltimore,' the president of the U.S. Confer- new Congress need to engage in' munity toward achieving these ence of Catholic Bishops called a collaborative 'dialogue that 'benchmarks," he. said.

The statement called on U.S. for a "substantive, civil and non- honestly assesses the situation in partisandiscussion" leading to "a Iraq, acknowledges past difficul- Catholics "to pray daily for'the ties and miscal~ulations,recog- safety of those who honorably responsible transition in Iraq."

"We hope our nation has 'nizes and builds on positive ad,-. serve our nation and for their moved beyond the divisive rheto- vances (e.g., broad participation families," as well as for "the Iraqi ric of the recent campaign and the ineledions), and reach6s agree· people, who have suffered so shrill and shallow debate that dis- ment on concrete steps to address greatly under a brutal dict~tor torts reality and reduces the op- the serious challenges that lie and now face continuing violence, instability and deprivations to 'cut and run' versus 'stay ahead," Bishop Skylstad said. the course,?" Bishop WilliamS. The statement saId the bish- tion."

During the morning of the first Skyl,stad of Spokane, Wash., said opswere concerned about the welfare of "our military person~ day of the bishops' meeting in in the statement.

The four~page'document was nel in Iraq, their families and the Baltimore, several bishops comprepared by theUSCCB Commit- suffering people of Iraq," and es- mented on' the Iraq statement, tee on International Policy in col- pecially for "the deteriorating with some offering suggestions laboration with the U.S. Archdio- situation of Christians and other that were incorp'orated into the text that afternoon. No one spoke cese for the Military Services and religious minorities" there.

Bishop Skylstad listed certain against the statement. the USCCB Administrative ComRetired Archbishop Philip M. mittee, which approved its addi- "basic benchmarks for a respontion to the agenda of the bishops" sible transition in Iraq," includ- Hannan of New Orleans said he fall general meeting 'November ing an end to "wanton killings, thought the statement should inindefensible terrorist attacks and clude "some call to the Western 11.

The bishops approved release sectarian violence"; economic nations that are not getting in'of the statement in Bishop . reconstruction that creates jobs volved" in Iraq.

"The busines's of taking' care.

Skylstad's name ina·voice vote and economic opportunity for November 13. The same day, Iraqis; and the development of of terrorism is not simply a diffiPresident George W. Bush met political solutions "that advance culty of the United States," he with a 10-member, bipartisan, stability, political participation said. "We saved Western Europe Iraq Study AGroup, whi~h is and respect for religious freedom on two occasions - World War I ' and World War II - and now charged with making recommen- and basic human rights."

"Ultimately, this work must they are not doing their duty at dations to change the direction of be done by Iraqis, butthe United all." the war in Iraq.

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PAINFUL SIGHT A severely malnourished KeFlyan girl sits on l her hospital bed in a hospital in Lodwar, 500 miles from the capital, Nairobi, earlier thi~ year: (eNS photo/Antony Njuguna, Reuters) iI , I

In TurkliY, pope to meet Orthodox, .Mus~im,· gov~minent leaders II

By CINDY WOODEN CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

While the pope will pray witl~ and meet privately with Patriarch VATICAN CITY -Although Bartholomew November 29 and prayers and meettngs with Or- attend his celebration of the Nothodox leaders dominate the vember 30 feast day liturgy, Pope schedule of p~be Benedict . Benedict also will meet in XVI's November" I'"28-December . Istanbul with Armenian Ortho1 trip to TUrk~y~I'11 he also will dox, Syrian Orthodox, Jewish meet government and Muslim and Catholic leaders. l The first day of his trip, which leaders. .

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The trip originally was de- will be spent in Ankara, the capisigned as an oppo~nity for Pope tal, will be dedicated to relations .

I Benedict to join qrthodox Ecu- with the Turkish government, its menical Patriarch I Bartholomew office overseeing religious affairs ,'of Constantinople for celebra-· and. ambassadors serving in the tions in Istanbul 6f the feast of country. The head of the (iepartment of religious affairs is St. Andrew. . II ' The pope and lithe' patriarch Turkey's highest Muslim authorsend delegations tb each other's ity.

The Vatican published the churches each year for the cel.

II ebrations of their ipatron saints' pope's schedule but without profeast days: the Vatican's June 29 viding the exacttime and details feast of Sts. Peter,r and Paul and of many of the events; a Vatican the Orthodox churches' Novem- official said there were still details to be finalized. ber 30 feast of St.I!Andrew.

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YOUTH PAGES

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PUMPKIN ART - First-graders Lance Vicente and Gillian Long from Our Lady of Mount Carmel School in New Bedford work on' pumpkin mosaics during a recent art class. .

COOL CATS - Principal Mike Scanlan of-Bishop Connolly High School in Fall River offers congratulations to students selected as Connolly Cougars of the Month. They were nominated for their good work in the school and community. From left are, Scanlan, Adam Vieira, Melanie Pavao, Alex Castro. and Chris Isherwood. .

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JUST CLOWNING AROUND - Pre-school teacher Mark Olson clowns around with some of his students during a Halloween party at St. Anthony of Padua School in New Bedford.

BOGGED DOWN - First- and second-grade students from St. John the EvangelistSchool in Attleboro spent the day at a local cranberry bog. The students were shown how cranberries are harvested, were given coloring books, and enjoyed lunch before returning to school.

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FOR THOSE IN NEED ~ Bishop Feehan High School'sSamantha . Varnerin hangs clothing for patrons of Christ's Closet, a program that makes clothing available to local families iF! need. It is sponsored by the Attleboro school's Peer Ministry Program of which Varnerin is a member. Clothing donations are always welcome and can b.e dropped offat the school's chapel. .

MORE COOL CATS - These students at St. Joseph School in Fairhaven recently won awards for their costumes in the school's annual Harvest Festival. From left: Victoria Rogers, Adam Oliveira, Gabrielle Boissoneau, Tatiana Alves and Oanielle Boissoneau. Activities included making homemade trick-or-treat bags .and painting pumpkins. . '.

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Knights group in Iraq donates children's goods to Iraqi parish WASHINGTON (CNS) - A lives in the zone. He is scheduled small group of U.S. Catholic vol- to return home in April. unteers working in Baghdad, Iraq, ' For those in the zone, the work schedule is hectic but routine, he has coordinated the overseas donation and distribution of hun- said.

"The place can consume you dreds of pounds of children's shoes, clothes and school supplies if you let it," he told CNS. to a Chaldean Catholic parish.

Von Plinsky said he started The group, an unofficial coun- thinking about activities - like cil of the Knights of Columbus, is being a member of the Knights of made up of temporary workers liv- Columbus - that used to break ing in the International Zone, said up his week back home in South AlexanderVon Plinsky, who started Carolina.

With the help ofthe only Cathothe group. Some ofthe members are Knights, and some are interested in lic chaplain in the zone, Von joining the KIDghts, he said.

Plinsky spread the word about A few months after its forma- starting a group there. As of midtion, the group and Von Plinsky November, between IS and 18 men set up an intricate logistical strat- were attending the biweekly meetegy to securely transport hundreds ings to pray, talk about Church isof pounds of supplies to the sues and organize volunteer efforts. nearby Chaldean Catholic parish, The group is affiliated with Counone of approximately 35 in the cil6847 in Columbia, S.C. During one of their meetings, greater Baghdad area.

Distributing the supplies, a Chaldean Catholic priest, whose which include children's rosaries name and parish are not identified and money to offset future costs, for fear of repercussions against involves several drop-off points parishioners, spoke with the group and techniques to keep the about his parish and its teetering parish's identity hidden, Von survival, said Von Plinsky. He said Plinsky told Catholic News Ser- the priest said he had been shot vice in telephone and email inter- five times and that the church had views. When the items are fmally been bombed. delivered to the priest, they are The Chaldean parish children, cleaned and wrapped in plastic especially girls, only began going trash bags to conceal that they are to school after U.S.-led forces arsupplies originating from the In- rived in 2003, and they need supternational Zone, he said. plies they never needed before, The unofficial Knights coun- Von Plinsky said. cil was formed amid the hub of After the meeting, the Knights trailers that make up the Interna- adopted the parish, he said. The tional Zone, where military per- members sent letters home to sonnel as well as civilians live, families and friends, and the supsaid Von Plinsky, who as a senior plies started coming in from the adviser with the State Department United States.

YOUTH PAGES

Understanding wh~ you want to be

By CHARLIE MARTIN -

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CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE !'

SUDDENLY I SEE Her face is a map ofthe world Is a map ofthe world You can see she's a beautiful girl She's a beautiful girl And everything around her is a silver pool of light The people who surround her feel the benefit of it It makes you calm She holds you captivated in her palm ,Suddenly I see This is what I wanna be Suddenly I see Why the hell it means so much to me I feel like walking the world Like walking the world You can hear she's a beautiful girl She's a beautiful girl She fills up every comer like she's born in black and white , Makes you feel warmer when you're trying to remember What you heard She likes to leave you hanging on a word Suddenly I see And she's taller than most And she's looking at me I can see her eyes looking from a page in a magazine Oh she makes me feel like I could be a tower A big strong tower She got the power to be The power to give The power to see Suddenly I see Sung by KT Tunstall Copyright 2006

by Virgin Records To say that KT Tunstall is on

the pr.overbial "rolr seems like an understatement! Her megahit last summer, "Black Horse and the Cherry Tree," brought her national recognition.

Tunstall also won a Brit • I Award (eqmvalent,to a Grammy in the U.S.), has a ~eal with Origins beauty pr9~ucts that will benefit Project Sunshine charity and now has a new release climbing the charts,.

"Suddenly I See." It is off her debut disc "Eye to the Telescope," and is also featured on the soundtrack to the movie "The Devil Wears prada."

"Suddenly I Se~" expresses more of Tunstall's :'distinctive, poetic and somewhat quirky style. In the song, a girl discovers a deeper understanding of who she wants to be. Apparently this awarene$s devel<?ps through watching 9thers, especially those sHe believes I' possess more of the power and I beauty she desires! Thus, she can say, "Suddenly I see this is what I wanna be."

It is true that observing others can help us discover more about what V{e want to become. But when it comes to creating our lives, liwe need to be careful about t¥ing clues from "out there" rather than listening to the voice "within."

For example, the song's character is moved by the beauty of a girl "looking from a page in a magazine." These individuals in magazines are Ii models. Most of us do not possess the physichl attributes

required for professional modeling. Believing that beauty requires becoming as thin or photogenic as someone in a magazine picture often leaves you feeling inadequate.

Power and beauty are significant human qualities, and they emerge from within. More important than your weight or the shape of your body is what you believe about yourself and how you respond to others.

Genuine caring is always beautiful. True generosity always holds power.

Images in magazines cannot lead you to discover such qualities within yourself.

Further, comparing yourself to others, whether they are models who appear in magazines or people you actually know, rarely supports your life.

Sure, we can appreciate who others are and what they bring to our world, but throwaway any yardsticks of comparison.

God needs you to be you!

There is nothing more important for you to be.

So look within, not outside, yourself. Life is not some contest of comparison where just a few are beautiful and powerful.

Your life is a gift to cherish.

Reflect the power, beauty and goodness that God placed within you.

Your comments are always welcome. Please write to me at: chmartin@swindiana.net or at 7125W 200S, Rockport, IN

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47635.

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What are you waiting for?

In less than a week, we will begin the season of Advent. This is a season that is often described in terms of preparation and waiting. We can see the preparations already.

Even before Halloween, stores were bringing out the Christmas trees and decorations.

People are already packing the stores, buying gifts. The carols are playing and the Santas are out ringing the bells.

Adults have replaced our time of waiting with this incredible frenzy. Children are the ones who wait ... they are filled with anticipation and excitement. We could learn a lot from our children. But we adults don't always recognize the gift and blessing that comes in the waiting. So the big question is: What are you waiting for? Are you waiting for the presents?

Are you waiting for the celebration? Are you waiting for Santa?

Just what are you waiting for?

Amid all of the commercialization of Christmas, we seem to lose the quiet of Advent. If what we are waiting for is Jesus Christ, then we need the quiet of prayerful preparation a lot more than we need the frenzied shopping trips. We need time set apart just for Him. We need to look at our lives ... our prayer, our relationships, our daily activities ... and see where we need to change things to make a welcome home for Christ.

What areas of our lives have we perhaps kept him out of?

This is what Advent is about ... waiting, preparing, getting our hearts and our lives more in line with his. We are waiting for Christ - not just the celebration of his birth

more than 2,000 years ago, but we await his coming at the end of time. We need to be watching, preparing, and actively waiting.

narratives at the beginning of the Gospels of Luke and Matthew. In your prayer, put yourself at the sta~~e, smell the straw, .touch the stqn of a baby 'and know that you have just touched God. Bring each of your family members to Jesus in prayer. Bring them one by one, each individual. .'

Make tithe for a good examinatioh of conscience and then receive the sacrament of reconciliation.

Advent should be all about getting our hearts and souls ready. We have to start with an honest look at what condition we are in at this moment.

If your schedule allows, attend daily Mass. J,ilf your schedule doesn?t allow for this, then perhaps maki6g a stop at a church to spend some time before the Blessed Sacrament I

So, how's your prayer life?

Where's your quiet time? How are these weeks before Christmas, called Advent, different for you as a Catholic Christian than they are for the rest of society preparing for that morning under the tree?

Let me offer a few suggestions: Open up that Bible. Try meditating on the infancy

could be a good alternative. I like to call that "sponge prayer" ... just soaking him up, without any wor~s, and letting him fill us.

There are so many other prayer options and most of these things do not take a great deal of time, but they do require an act of the will and a desire to draw closer to Christ. The time we spend in prayer or adoration or mediation may be 15 minutes.

It's not the quantity, it's the quality.

If we are truly waiting for Jesus Christ then we need to prepare for Jesus Christ. If we know that this is true, and we do, then we need to start now.

What are we waiting for?

Jean Revil is director of Campus Ministry at Bishop Stang High School, where she has taughtfor 27 years.

Comments welcome at: jrevil@bishopstang.com.

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NOVEMBER

24,2006

Last Catholic women's college in Massachusetts to admit men

By DONIS TRACY CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

the incoming class in the fall of 2007 addresses the reality of the WESTON, Mass. - Regis Col- higher education marketplace belege is currently the only Catholic cause it broadens the pool of apwomen's college in Massachusetts, plicants interested in attending Regis College." but that is going to change.

In fact, men are already a comIn a move that some are calling regrettable but necessary, the Regis mon sight on the Regis campus.

College board of trustees has voted The college's graduate and conto admit men to the undergraduate tinuing education programs have program beginning in the fall of . long admitted men. Moreover, 2007. The decision comes after since 2004 Regis College has leased its Domitilla Hall dormitory year~ of declining enrollment and to the Art Institute of Boston, and financial troubles.

According to Mary Jane En- both young men and young gland, president of Regis Col- women live there.

That lease is set to expire at the lege, the goal is to expand enrollment of the undergraduate pro- end of this school year, and the gram to 1,000 students by the building will most likely become year 2010. Currently only 640 an all-male dormitory for Regis, undergraduate women attend school officials said.

According to England, the deRegis.

"We want to grow," she said. cision to admit men has been "We want to get to over 1,000 un- largely welcomed by the students and faculty at Regis College. The dergraduate students." , .

But many young women today alumnae too have been largely supare just not interested in attending portive, she added, although some an all-women's school, England have voiced concerns that Regis told The Pilot, newspaper of the College may lose a key part of its Boston Archdiocese. She cited a identity.

Susan Tammaro, associate prostudy conducted by the American Council on Education, which con- fessor of psychology at Regis Colcluded that although more females lege, voiced great optimism for the attend college than males less than future of Regis College. "I think three percent of females are inter- it's great news. The faculty has ested in attending a single-gender been asking for this for a while," she said. school.

"It is the best way to serve England said that by opening its doors to undergraduate men today's young women. It's a shift, Regis College also would better certainly, but it's a shift well within serve women. Paula Harbecke, the vision of our school," she vice president of academic af- added.

Student reactions have been fairs, agreed with that assess"" more mixed, according to Marissa ment. ''The Regis College board's de- Gondola, a Regis senior. She said cision will ultimately allow us to some students were unhappy with educate more young women," she the change, although most have resaid. "Today, after 80 years as a luctantly agreed that admitting women-only residential college, men is perhaps the only way to admitting undergraduate men to save the school.

"It was pretty much that or have the school shut down because of Montie Plumbing the financial situation," Gondola & Heating Co. said.

Over 35 Years According to the Association of of Satisfied Services Catholic Colleges and UniversiReg. Master Plumber 7023 ties, there will be 12 Catholic JOSEPH RAPOSA, JR. women's colleges left in the United 432 JEFFERSON STREET States arter Regis admits men next FALL RIVER 508-675-7496 year.

PRACTICE THE DEVOTION OF THE FIRST SATURDAYS, AS REQUESTED BY OUR LADY OF FATIMA

â&#x20AC;˘

On December 10, 1925, Our Lady appeared to Sister Lucia (seer of Fatima) and spoke these words: "Announce in my name that I promise to assist at the hour ofdeath with the graces necessary for the salvation oftheir souls, all those who on the first Saturday of five consecutive months shaU: 1. Go to confession; 2. Receive Holy Communion; 3. Recite the Rosary (5 decades); and 4. Keep me company for 15 minutes while meditating on the 15 mysteries ofthe Rosary, with the intention of making reparation to me."

In a ~pirit of reparation, the above conditions are each to be preceded by the words: ''In reparation for the offenses committed against the Immaculate Heart of Mary."

Confessions may be made during 8 days before or after the first Saturday, and Holy Communion may be received at either the morning or evening Mass on the first Saturday.

Paid advertisement

TARGETS OF SATIRE - Pope Benedict XVI talks with his personal secretary, Msgr. Georg Ganswein, in ~t. Peter's S~uare at the Vat!c~n. Recent spoofs of the pope and his secretary have ignited a national debate In Italy over the limits of humor. (CNS photo/Catholic Press Photo)

Poking fun at the pope: Satire sparks debate on limits ¡of humor

By JOHN THAVIS CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE VATICAN CITY - Italians have a long history of satirizing the papacy, but recent gibes at Pope Benedict XVI and his personal secretary have ignited a national debate over the limits of humor.

A running sketch on a popular Italian TV show portrays the whitehaired pope as a capricious egotist who complains about always having to wear white and giggles as he types out excommunication edicts.

A radio comedian has the pope shooting pigeons above St. Peter's Square - because they "bother people who have to work" - and tossing burning candies down at children.

Meanwhile, another radio show impersonator has found a comic target in the papal secretary, Msgr.

Georg Ganswein, who comes off as a vain lightweight - he dreams of being a circus acrobat, but worries that it might mess up his hair.

In mid-November, the Catholic newspaper Avvenire decided it had seen and heard enough. It said the parodies of the pontiff and his secretary were vulgar and grotesque and in some ways represented a cheap shot at the Church.

Citing a sketch that showed Pope Benedict preparing to deliver an Angelus talk, Avvenire editorialist Umberto Folena said the pope "appears as a hysterical man flanked by two cardinal-altar boys, worried about having enough good lines to deliver, out of control, his fingers swollen with big rings."

"What does this have to do with the real pope? Nothing. If satire magnifies a defect in order to ridicule it, this operation has failed," he said.

In his TV impersonation, Maurizio Crozza's pope speaks in

a thick German accent and worries about being overshadowed by his predecessor, Pope John Paul II. At one point, exasperated by the comparisons, he asks his aides, "Did John Paul II know how to do this?" and proceeds to tap dance across the hoor and juggle three oranges.

In another show he launches a dove as a sign of peace. When it falls with a thud on the ground, he shrugs and remarks, "It must have had bird flu."

The radio spoof on Msgr.

Ganswein plays on his popularity in the Italian media and his reputation as the most sportive and handsome member of the pope's household.

In the Italian comedian Fiorello's version, Msgr. Ganswein plays at curling in St. Peter's Basilica and talks about opening a restaurant inside the Vatican - the "Last Supper," where you order one fish and it serves 20 people.

The real Msgr. Ganswein told an Italian reporter he'd never heard the radio show or seen the TV spoof of the pope, but thought such transmissions were offensive. Satire is legitimate but should respect the people involved, he said. ''These things have no intellectual level and offend men of the Church. They're unacceptable, and I really hope they end immediately,"

Msgr. Ganswein said.

The papal secretary's comments led some Italians to accuse the Church of being oversensitive.

"One of the characteristics of satire is that it doesn't make the victim laugh," said Fausto Colombo, who teaches media theory at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan.

The limits of satire are fixed by the law, he said, not by the fact that it may offend some people. And in any case, poking fun at the pope or a papal secretary is not the same as ridiculing Jesus Christ, he added.

But German Cardinal Walter Kasper was more critical. He said this type of satire aims at attacking and damaging the image of the pope and encourages the creation of "a society of ridicule."

Satire has been employed against the Church throughout Italian history. The best remembered is Giuseppe Gioacchino Belli, a 19th-century Roman poet, who once'described the pope as "wined and dined and mellow" in his Rome fortress, ready to bestow blessings or cannonballs on the populace.

Belli was a master of popular expression, and today's Italian comics are not considered at his level.

Several critics, in fact, suggested that the greatest sin of the modem papal satirists is that they're not all that funny.

Manger scenes to be displayed in Bourne BOURNE - The historical Briggs-McDermott House, 22 Sandwich Road, will be the sight of a public exhibit, "Manger Scenes from Around the World."

The exhibit is part of Christmas in Old Bourne Village, in conjuction with The Cape Cod Creche Society. A collection from Father Tim Goldrick is included.

Opening night is December 1 from 6-8 p.m. and will feature an appearance by St. Nicholas, the Three Kings, and St. Lucy, and the International Gift-givers of Christmas.

The exhibit continues December 2-3 and 9-10 from 1 to 4 p.m.

Refreshments and other surprise activities are planned.

NOVEMBER

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24, 2006

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BROCKTON - A Day with Mary will be held December 2 beginning at 9:45 a.m. at St. Edith Stein Church, 71 East Main Street. Mass will be celebrated at 10:45 a.m. and will be followed by rosary and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. Attendees should bring a bag lunch. It will conclude at 3:30 p.m. For more information call 508-984-1823.

EAST FALMOUTH - First Saturday devotions, including the Fatima Rosary will be held December 2 at St. Anthony's Church immediately following the 8 a.m. celebration of Mass. It is sponsored by the Knights of Columbus Council No. 813. For more information call 508-540-1808.

EAST TAUNTON - A holy hour for the sanctity of human life will be held November 29 at 7 p.m. at Holy Family Church, 370 Middleboro Avenue. Kay Poirier, director of Birthright of Greater Taunton, will be guest speaker.

WAREHAM - In preparation for the holy day of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Advent, and Christmas, a nine-day novena in honor of Our Lady will be held November 30-December 8 at St. Patrick's Church. It will begin with exposition of the Blessed Sacrament at 7 p.m., followed by evening prayer, a spiritual talk and concludes with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament.

WEST HARWICH - A monthly holy hour will be held Sunday at 12:15 p.m. at Holy Trinity Church. Rosary will be followed by Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. The Pro-Life prayer groups of Holy Trinity and Holy Redeemer Churches will sponsor it. For more information call 508-432-4000.

ILectureslPresentatio~ PROVIDENCE - A large display of Christmas cr~ches is on display at the Center for Catholic and Dominican Studies on the campus of Providence College.

They will be viewable from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. November 27 through December 19 and again January 3-8. For more information call 401-865-2870.

IMiscellaneo_us_ _~;,-'"

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nativity sets, and concerts by Father Pat at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays. Lights are illuminated nightly from 5-9 p.m. Parking and admission are free. For more information call 508-2225410.

CENTERVILLE - Gregory Norbet, a respected spiritual leader, singer and retreat director will present his Adventsong retreat and concert December 16-17 at Our Lady of Victory Parish. The retreat will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

December 16. The concert will be held at 7 p.m. December 17. A free-will offering will be taken. For more information call 508-775-5744.

FALL RIVER - The Fall River Area Men's First Friday Club will meet December 1 at Good Shepherd Parish for 6 p.m.

Mass. A meal will follow with guest speaker Franciscan Father Sharbel will give a presentation on the Christmas Manger. For information call 508-672-8174. ' FALL RIVER - The Legion of Mary will hold its annual reunion December 3 at 2 p.m. at St. Joseph's Church. All members, family and friends are welcome.

New members are welcome. Bus transportation is available from St. Joseph-St. Therese Church in New Bedford, at a cost of $5. For more information call Alice Beaulieu at 508-995-2354.

FALL RIVER - A pancake breakfast with proceeds to benefit the Catholic Memorial Home Van Fund, will be held December 3 from 8-10 a.m. at the St. John's Club, \364 Rodman Street. Tickets must be purchased in advance at the home or club. For more information call 508-679-8154.

MASHPEE - A Christmas Bazaar will be held December 2 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Christ the King Parish. It will include crafts, hand-made greens, a children's shopping room, white elephant table, bakery items, face painting, a raffle, and food. For more information call 508477-7700.

NEW BEDFORD - A holiday breakfast and open house will be held December 3 from 8 a.m. to noon at the Sacred Heart Home, 359 Summer Street. For more information call 508-996-6751.

INDIA - St. Antony's Church, a missionary parish in India seeks items for its school children and to continue its mission. Especially needed are pens, pencils, markers, magazines, used cards, holy pictures, rosaries, statues, medals and scapulas. They can be sent in care of Father Paul Cruz, St. Antony's Church, Kanjirakodu, P.O. Kundara - 691 501, Kollam, Kerala, India.

NORTH ATTLEBORO - A Christmas Fair will be held tomorrow from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. Mary's Church, 14 Park Street. It features homemade baked goods including French meat pies, a candy store, fresh wreaths and centerpieces, hand-made wooden crafts knit and sewn goods, kids games and prizes, face painting, raffle table, silent auction, 501 50, library and photos with Santa. St. Mary's Choir will perform at noon and the kitchen will serve breakfast and lunch.

NEW BEDFORD - Auditions for "Nunsensations" will be held December 3 at 3 p.m. at Holy Family-Holy Name School, 91 Summer Street. Five female roles are open and interested parties should come prepared with 16 bars of a ballad and 16 bars of an up-tempo piece.

Rehearsals will begin in January for March 23-25 performances. For more information call Maurice Ouellette at 508997-7804.

WAREHAM - A Christmas craft fair will be held tomorrow from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the parish center of St. Patrick's Church, 82 High Street. It will include tables of French meat pies, homemade crafts, baked goods, raffles, grandma's attic, and food. Drawings will be held at 2 p.m. For more information call 508-295-2411.

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ISocial Events

ACUSHNET - St. Francis Xavier Parish's Centennial Year will close December 3 and it will mark the occasion with a 4:30 p.m. concert of sacred and popular Christian music. Bishop George W. Coleman will celebrate Mass at 5 p.m. and a buffet banquet will follow at the Century House. For more information call 508-995-7600.

ATTLEBORO - The 54th annual Festival of Lights, featuring more than 300,000 lights is now underway at the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette.

Themed "Lord, You are Our Hope," it includes a indoor display of international

ISupport Grouil$:1:' .

ATTLEBORO - Grief Education Programs are offered at the La Salette Retreat House. Sessions provide individuals with the opportunity to find ways to cope during painful times. Upcoming sessions will be held December 4 from 10:30 a.m. to noon; December 7 from 6:30-8 p.m. and December 18 from 10:30 a.m. to noon. For more information call 508-824-6581.

NORTH DARTMOUTH - A divorced-separated support group will meet November 27 from 7-8:30 p.m. at the Family Life Center, 500 Slocum Road. It will include a the video "Forgiveness."

Refreshments will follow. For more information call Bob Menard at 508-673-2997.

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u.s. reconsecrated to Mary

Around- the Diocese ~' .' .

Eucharistic Adoration

The Anchor

at Mass at national shrine

By CATHOLIC New's SERVICE

our security as a nation. We have the Father Apostoli cited several exWASHINGTON - The United war going on in Iraq, conflict in Af- amples from history that he said demStates needs Mary's intercession to ghanistan. We pray to Our Lady, the onstrate the power ofthe consecration protect it from terrorism and the threa~ Queen ofPeace, to bririg peace there," to Mary. Among those, he said, was of war, but it also needs her help "at a '- said FatherApostoli. "Atthe same time Pope John Paul IT's consecration ofthe tipte when the moral fabric ofAmeri-- we know there is a spreading danger world and Russia to the Immaculate can society is threatened,". said the of nuclear weapons, so we turn to the Heart of Mary. This was followed, he homilist at'!l~ovem~r g ~iiD Blessed VIrgin Mary, ~ho had said at said, by the Berlin Wall coming down Washington'sponsored by the World Fatima on her very first apparition, 'I in 1989.

Apostolate of Fatima. am the only one who can help you.'''

"It didn't fall down. It wasn't deWith a rising rate of divorce and FatherApostoli said the nation cer- stroyed by fighting annies, tanks and cohabitation, the push for same-sex tainly needs the political process to bombs," Father Apostoli said. "It was marriage, the breakdown of the fam- solve problems and the military to taken down by the people who put it ily, an acceptance of abortion and as- "defend our basic rights," but "ulti- up because they had a change ofheart sisted suicide, and the "total disregard" mately the road to peace can only ... through the intercession of Mary." for the sanctity of life, the U.S. is "in come from God intervening."

After the homily, Bishop Ricken . need of great help," said Father AnBut Mary's intercession is also led the congregation in reciting the drew Apostoli, a Franciscan Friar of needed to change the moral tide in the four-paragraph consecration prayer as the Renewal.

United States, he said. he knelt in front of a statue of Mary "Why do we turn to Our Lady at "We need that special protection near the altar. It calls on Mary to "save this time? ... It's because the times we that Mary will give," Father Apostoli us from degeneration, disaster and live in are critical and crucial to our said. "She will put her mantle overour war." country and to our Church," he said. nation and restore the dignity of life."

Afterward Connie Schneider, a The two-hour Mass, which drew FatherApostoli noted that in 1792, member of the World Apostolate of more than 1,000 people to the Basilica the first bishop of the United States, Fatima's board of trustees, commented ofthe National Shrine ofthe Immacu- Bishop John Carroll, consecrated the in an interview that during World War late Conception, included the U.S. nationtoMaryunder~etitleImmacu足 I Pope Benedict XV appealed to the bishops' reconsecration of the nation late Conception, and in 1846 the bish- children ofthe world to petition Mary to the Immaculate Conception of ops unanimously chose Mary under for help in that troubled time.

Mary. that title as the patroness ofthe nation, Shortly after the pope's homily, she The principal celebrant was Arch- he said. In 1959, when construction said, Mary began appearing to the bishop Pietro Sambi, papal nuncio to was complete, the U.S. dedicated the three children in Fatima, Portugal, in the United States. Bishop David L. national shrine in WaAhington to her. 1917, with what is often called her Ricken ofCheyenne, Wyo., recited the Blessed Pope Pius IX established "peace plan from heaven," which inprayerofreconsecration after the hom- the doctrine of the Immaculate Con- cluded her request that people pray the ily. ception, that Mary was conceived rosary every day and have devotion to Scores of Knights of Columbus without sin, as a dogma of the Catho- her under the title ofImmaculate Heart were among the faithful in the packed lic faith Dec. 8, 1854. of Mary. upper church for the Mass, which was televised live by the Eternal WordTeleSERVICE... By caringfami/y and service-fami/y professionals vision Network.

TRUST. ../n the people you know ''There are threats to our peace and I

___~__YOt1r~!~y~~~ __ Please pray for these priests during the coming weeks

November 28 Rev. Adrien A. Gauthier, Pastor, St. Roch, Fall River, 1959 November 29 Rev. Thomas H. Shahan, Former Pastor, St. Mary, Taunton, 1902 Rev. Francis A. McCarthy, Pastor, St. Patrick, Somerset, 1965 November 30 Rev. William 1. McCoomb, Pastor, Immaculate Conception, North Easton, 1895 December 1 Rev. Phillipe Ross, Chaplain, Sacred Heart Home, New Bedford, 1958 Rev. Edward J. Gorman, Retired Pastor, St. Patrick, Somerset, 1964 December 2 Rev. Arthur Savoie, Pastor, St. Hyacinth, New Bedford, 1917 Rev. Dennis W. Harrington, Assistant, St. Mary, Taunton, 1958 Rev. Stanislaus Basinski, Former Pastor Holy Rosary, Taunton, 1970 December 3 Rev. John W. McCarthy, P.R., Pastor, Sacred Heart, Fall River, 1926 December 4 Rev. Patrick Byrne, Pastor, St. Mary, New Bedford, 1844 Rev. Charles Ouellette, Assistant, St. Jacques, Taunton, 1945 Rev. Edward C. Duffy, Pastor, St. Francis Xavier, Hyannis, 1994

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2006 Marian Medal Award Winners

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Anita Abdou Claire L. Beauregard Mary Jane Burke Claudette Ann Daley William Francis Foley Joseph Garcia Joseph Graney Sr. Ramona Martinez John P. McGuire Joseph L. Rose Virginia Simoni Ronald Amaral Barbara Bishop Vincent R. Byrne Margaret E. Crocker Dorothy DiSabatino Dorothy Dolan Louis Dufresne Robert Filliman MaryE. Good Dorothy Hiltz Susan Kavanagh Francis Keyes Allen Malloy Roland John Marcoux Anne Teresa Mazzola Dr. John J. O'Neill Mary E. Snyder Anthony R. Spagone Edward R. Wagner Susan P. Wallo Diana Bettencourt Romeo Bosse Richard Cichon Pamela Cordeiro Russell Costa Donald Desmarais Lorraine Fernandes Stephen Ferreira Colleen L. Franco Eileen Garant Lee Gibbons Doris Kostek Rita LaCroix Wilfred L. Lavoie Normand O. Marceau Cecilia Medeiros John Bartholomew Moniz Alston J. Potter III Paul Sardinha Normand Sasseville Lenore Souza Patricia Vacchi Leonard Worsley Lucy Bernardo Maria F. Bjornson Paula Briden Charles A. Cabral June Clancy Francis Cox Louise Cruz Alfredo N. DaSilva Joan Dion Joseph Gallant Theresa A. Gaudette Carmen I. Guerrero Helen Gula John Lafreniere George Ladino Arthur Jeremias Matos Joseph Neves Barbara Racine Barbara Hagen Ramsey Louis R. Trial Margaret Valliere Ronald Bettencourt Cecilia Cardoza Edith Donnelly Furtado Josephine Kulpa Annalee Nystrom Fred Packard Jean Quigley Susan Rogers Harold Joseph Rose Jr. Donald J. Scott Helena Silva James Silvia Lucille Souza Richard Vieira

Saint Mary Parish Saint Stephen Parish Sacred Heart Parish St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Parish Saint Mary Parish Saint Mary Parish Saint Joseph Parish Saint John the Evangelist Parish Saint Joseph Parish, Spanish Community Saint Mark Parish Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish Saint Mary Parish Saint Peter the Apostle Parish Saint Elizabeth Seton Parish Our Lady of the Assumption Parish Saint Pius X Parish Saint Margaret Parish Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Our Lady of the Cape Parish Saint Joan of Arc Parish Saint John the Evangelist Parish Christ the King Parish Saint Joseph Parish Holy Redeemer Parish Holy Trinity Parish Our Lady of Victory Parish Saint Francis Xavier Parish St. Mary-Our Lady of the Isle Parish Saint Patrick Parish Saint Anthony Parish Corpus Christi Parish Good Shepherd Parish Saint Francis of Assisi Parish Holy Trinity Parish Saint Louis de France Parish Saint John of God Parish Espirito Santo Parish Immaculate Conception Parish Sacred Heart Parish Saint-Bernard Parish Holy Rosary Parish Saint Joseph Parish SS. Peter and Paul Parish Notre Dame de Lourdes Parish Saint Stanislaus Parish Holy Name Parish Saint George Parish Saint Anthony of Padua Parish Santo Christo Parish Saint John the Baptist Parish Saint Anne Parish Our Lady of Grace Parish Saint Dominic Parish Saint Mary's Cathedral Parish Saint Patrick Parish Saint Mary Parish Saint Julie Billiart Parish Saint Anthony of Padua Parish Holy Name of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish Saint Rita Parish Saint Joseph Parish Our Lady of the Assumption Parish Immaculate Conception Parish Saint Francis Xavier Parish Saint Joseph-St. Therese Parish Our Lady of Fatima Parish Our Lady of Guadalupe @ St. James Church Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish Saint John Neumann Parish Saint John the Baptist Parish Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish Saint Francis of Assisi Parish Saint Lawrence Parish Saint Patrick Parish Saint Mary Parish Saint Anthony Parish Saint Mary Parish Immaculate Conception Parish Saint Paul Parish Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Parish Saint Anthony Parish Holy Cross Parish Saint Peter Parish Immaculate Conception Parish Saint Joseph Parish Saint Joseph Parish Annunciation of the Lord Parish Saint Jacques Parish Holy Family Parish Saint Ann Parish

North Attleboro Attleboro North Attleboro Attleboro Norton Seekonk Attleboro Attleboro Attleboro Attleboro Falls Seekonk Mansfield Provincetown North Falmouth Osterville South Yarmouth Buzzards Bay Wellfleet Brewster Orleans . Pocasset Mashpee Woods Hole Chatham West Harwich Centerville Hyannis Nantucket Falmouth East Falmouth East Sandwich Vineyard Haven Swansea Fall River Swansea Somerset Fall River Fall River Fall River Assonet Village Fall River Fall River Fall River Fall River Fall River Fall River Westport Fall River Fall River Westport Fall River Westport Swansea Fall River Somerset South Dartmouth North Dartmouth New Bedford New Bedford Marion Fairhaven New Bedford' New Bedford Acushnet New Bedford New Bedford New Bedford New Bedford East Freetown New Bedford New Bedford New Bedford New Bedford Wareham New Bedford Mattapoisett Taunton North Easton Taunton Taunton Taunton South Easton Dighton Taunton Taunton North Dighton Taunton Taunton East Taunton Raynham

The Marian Medal awarded annually by the Diocese of Fall River. (Photo by John E. Kearns Jr.)

THE AWARD -

Dorothy Hiltz, above, of Christ the King Parish, Mashpee, and John Bartholomew, below, of Santo Christo Parish Fall River, receive the Marian Medal from Bishop George W. Coleman. Ninety faithful from across the diocese received the award at ceremonies at St. Mary's Cathedral on November 19. (Photos by Eric Rodrigues)

THE WINNERS -