Diocese of Fall River, Mass. † Friday, March 4, 2022
Bishop da Cunha’s Lenten Message Students from St. John Paul II School in Hyannis enjoying the Catholic school experience.
Diocesan schools invite all families to rediscover Catholic schools FALL RIVER — According to the National Catholic Educational Association, there has been an unprecedented increase in Catholic school enrollment for the 2021-22 school year. Nationally, there are 3.8 percent more students in Catholic schools than there were in the previous year, representing the first enrollment increase in two decades as well as the largest increase in about 50 years. Over the past two years, the pandemic has highlighted challenges facing educational systems which resulted in many families “rediscovering Catholic schools.” “Catholic schools’ dedication in safely opening classrooms and supporting their communities’ needs last year is demonstrated in the 3.8 percent increase in enrollment,”
according to the NCEA statement. Similarly, enrollment in the Diocese of Fall River Catholic elementary schools has increased nearly three percent compared to last school year, and most Catholic elementary schools have a wait-list. Thus, it is evident that many new families are discovering and embracing the unique qualities of Catholic education. The Rediscover Catholic Schools campaign embodies the continued invitation for more new families to join the Catholic school community. Through video testimonials by parents, teachers, students, alumni, and coaches, the essence of what makes a Catholic school unique and differ8 Turn to page 10
Synodal process coming alive in diocese Page 9
Dear Friends in Christ, The holy season of Lent is again upon us, a season in which we are called to embark on a Spiritual journey of reflection, repentance, and renewal. The Church reminds us that the Lord calls us and invites us during this time to a life of change and conversion. The Scripture readings speak of beginning anew; of fasting, prayer, and almsgiving; of conversion of heart; of forgiveness. They remind us we are called to live a holy life. We begin this Lent with cautious optimism that progress is being made against the Coronavirus pandemic. We are hopeful and grateful, as the number of cases continues to decline, illness is less severe, and vaccines are widely available. In some ways, the pandemic may have seemed like an extended Lent, as many parallels can be seen between them. During Lent we practice penance, sacrifice, fasting, and abstinence to come out on the other side renewed and strengthened to celebrate the Paschal Mystery and new life at Easter. In a sense, the Coronavirus ushered in a long-lasting “Lenten Season.” We have made sacrifices, we have experienced or witnessed suffering, and now look forward to new beginnings and emerging from the ashes of the pandemic. Many of us are eager to reconnect and stay connected with family and friends. Lent, especially this year, can help support this. Lent is a wonderful opportunity to spend more time together in prayer, in growing in understanding of faith, in service to those in need, and in support of one another as we try to live better and more holy lives. As we seek ways to practice prayer, fasting, and charity this Lent, let us not forget to consider doing so with our parish community — gathering for Mass,
prayer services, the Sacraments, and for working together to serve the poor and needy within the community. I hope this Lent can be a time for vibrant parish community involvement, reinvolvement, and forging lasting relationships in and with Christ. Suffering, pain, sadness, the cross, these are never a dead end, Jesus’ Passion assures us, death will never have the last word for He has conquered it when He rose again. They point to new life. How can we find, during Lent, signs of life for us, our communities, our country, and world? As I said in my homily at the Mass for the opening of the Synod: “I want to tell you that I have a dream today. And my dream is that from the ashes of the Coronavirus pandemic, a renewed Church will be born. A Church that is centered on Jesus, centered on the Eucharist, and a Church that has a Synod process as its main character. Yes, I have this dream, that we will be a united Church, an active participant Church, a Church focused on the Gospel, on the teaching and the presence of Jesus. What is your dream today?” It is important to remember that Lent is not an end in and of itself, but a season that leads us to the joyous and hope-filled celebration of Easter. Likewise, this year it can also be a season to lead us to reconnect with God, with Church, with community and with family after pandemic-imposed restrictions kept us apart. Let this Lent be the time to restore our practice of the faith and rebuild a vibrant Church for now and the generations to follow. Sincerely yours in Christ, Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V. of Fall River1 March 4 2022 Bishop †
Attleboro 40 Days for Life initiates 28th campaign By Dave Jolivet Editor
davejolivet@anchornews.org
ATTLEBORO — The Attleboro 40 Days for Life ministry began its 28th consecutive campaign on Ash Wednesday, March 2, and will continue until Palm Sunday, April 10. It seems only fitting the fight for all life, from conception to natural death, coincides with one of the holiest seasons of the Church. While it is very inspiring that the Attleboro campaign has remained faithful and vigilant to the Pro-Life message, it’s a sad commentary on society that such a campaign is necessary in the first place. In a message to friends and supporters of the Attleboro campaign, Ron Larose, director, and Angela Chaves wrote, “We are looking forward to seeing all our faithful supporters who have joined us in
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witness and prayer as we end our 14th year of prayer and fasting for an end to abortion. “We stand united for
corner of the vineyard at the last remaining abortion clinic in the entire southeast region of Massachusetts. Our Supreme Court
peaceful vigil will be held in the public right-of-way known as Angell Park, just outside the clinic. Also, as in the past,
life with 588 other campaigns worldwide who will be joining us in our small
is in the process of ruling on a Mississippi case that would ban abortion at 15 weeks. More importantly, the decision could end all Federal abortion rights as they exist today.” The Attleboro campaign will conduct an opening prayer service on March 5 at 8 a.m. at Four Women Clinic, 150 Emory Street in Attleboro (about one mile from La Salette Shrine). The service will officially launch the latest campaign that includes maintaining a peaceful vigil across from the clinic daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. “I have plenty of signs to hand out for your use during the campaign as well as other literature from the National campaign for your use,” Larose told The Anchor. As in the past, the
all prayer vigil participants are asked to conduct themselves in a Christ-like manner at all times. Larose also told The Anchor that the Attleboro website at 40daysforlife. com/attleboro is up and running. On it includes a vigil calendar where people can sign up for a specific hour during the campaign. The website also continues links to the national 40 Days For Life site, including campaign flyers and additional information about the nationwide campaign. In addition to accessing the website, those interested in obtaining more information about the local campaign can contact Larose at 40dflattleboro@ comcast.net or calling 508-736-9813. “Learn more — get involved —
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and sign up for prayer times by visiting our website,” the local campaign flyer reads. Larose and Chaves added, “Please consider spending time in prayer and fast with us this Lent as we continue our faithful witness to the Gospel of Life. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all those who have most generously supported us in the past and continue to do so. God bless you for all you do on behalf of the unborn.” The National 40 Days For Life campaign explains folks “can protect mothers and children by joining this worldwide mobilization to pray and fast for an end to abortion. “Through prayer and fasting, peaceful vigils and community outreach, 40 Days for Life has inspired 1,000,000-plus volunteers.” The proven results are indeed inspiring and shed some optimism in the fight against the culture of death. In 26 coordinated campaigns, more than 20,000 babies were saved from abortion; more than 200 abortion workers converted; and more than 100 abortion centers closed. In past Anchor accounts of the Attleboro efforts, the request has been, and still is — if you cannot join the vigil, you can participate at your own parish or congregation by praying and fasting for this most important cause. Many states, including Massachusetts, are advancing legislation to allow abortions. The support of area faithful is needed as much now as it ever has been.
Celebrating friendship with Catholic Social Services By Rose Mary Saraiva Volunteer Coordinator & Bereavement Services Catholic Social Services of Fall River, Inc. FALL RIVER — Dia dos Amigos e Amigas (Friends Day) is an Azorean tradition that celebrates the bonds of friendship. In this tradition, which has been preserved for decades, friends gather to celebrate and let “loose.” They enjoy the friendships they have cultivated, good times, and take a break from the social norms that often regulate their days and activities. The festivities often include luncheons or dinners, gifts, formal attire, and a host of other fun activities that can be as diverse as the group itself. Azorean immigrants brought this tradition, along with so many other beloved traditions, with them as they established new communities around the world In keeping with the tradition of Dia dos Amigos, Vidalia Medeiros and a small group of volunteers, hosted such
an event on February 9 at Santo Christo Parish in Fall River. Vidalia, along with her sister Judith Medeiros and two other volunteers — Maria Jose Franca and Judy Pavao — organized and prepared the event. The group decorated the hall, made special gifts for all the members, decorated tables with group photos highlighting “friendship,” and played games. Judith Medeiros and Judy Pavao led the group in prayer with a song by Padre Zezinho, SCJ, appropriately entitled, “Oração por meus Amigos” (A Prayer for my Friends). After the prayer, the meal began and like any Portuguese celebration, there was plenty of food, but the favorite, was the soup starter — Canja (chicken soup) prepared by Franca. There was an atmosphere of closeness and friendship, a strong sense of camaraderie and shared experiences that was not only evident, but distinctly felt. A group of us were invited to attend from Catholic Social Services, and we were immediate-
From left, Judy Pavao, Maria Jose Franca, Vidalia Medeiros and Judith Medeiros recently hosted a Dia dos Amigos e Amigas (Friends Day) event at Santo Christo Parish in Fall River. ly made to feel as if we had been a major part of the group all along. In a sense, we have — Catholic Social Services, along with the Vice-Presidência do Governo Regional, Direção Regional das Comunidades, Governo dos Açores, (Vice-President of the Regional Government,
Regional Directorate of Communities, Government of the Azores), co-sponsor the ongoing activities of this vital, but unassuming group. Who make up this group? They are simply known as the Santo Christo Senior Group; it is graciously hosted
and supported by Father Jeffrey Cabral, pastor, and the parishioners of Santo Christo Church in Fall River. This group started through an initiative of the Azorean government to ensure that the elderly were not alone or forgotten. Through this initia8 Turn to page four
† Diocese of Fall River † OFFICIAL Appointments
His Excellency, the Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D., Bishop of Fall River, has made the following appointment: Reverend Craig A. Pregana, Chaplain to Knights of Columbus Council #404 in Attleboro, while remaining Pastor of St. John the Evangelist Parish in Attleboro. Effective: February 7, 2022 March 4 2022 †
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Celebrating friendship with Catholic Social Services continued from page three
tive, funding was made available to the Azorean communities around the world. An alliance was formed with Catholic Social Services more than 20 years ago to be the agency that would serve as the “home base” for the group. The initial group was formed and coordinated by Juraci Ribeiro, a CSS staff member, in 2001. When Ribeiro left, she passed the baton to Vidalia Medeiros and her group of volunteers in 2008. The group consisting of 26 members from the Fall River and New Bedford area, meets every Wednesday, and provides a social outlet for those who would otherwise find themselves alone. Elderly individuals often feel isolated and excluded, as other family members, children, and grandchildren are often busy with their own lives and demands. This especially becomes more problematic as they reach retirement age, become disabled, or widowed and lose their connection with co-workers, their spouses’ extended family, and even friendships that were based on them as a couple. For many of our older population, this often leads to low self-esteem, depression, and in some, suicidal ideation. It was the impact that loneliness and isolation have on the elderly that spearheaded initiatives to connect the elderly in the community. A look around the room and at the faces of those present, was proof that such programs do 4
have a positive effect and definitely offer lasting benefits that come through genuine connections. As invited guests, Susan Mazzarella, Rui Rosa and myself were quickly “adopted” as one of them and they offered their personal stories unabashedly. There were so many who wanted to simply share, but for the sake of space and time, I would like to share a couple that stood out. First meet, Thelma
to simply feel as if she is making a difference. She told me that all her life she has been drawn to help and advocate for children and the elderly — “They are the ones that need our help the most,” she said. Next meet Maria Jose Franca. Maria Jose joined the group in 2001; she came to the group after becoming disabled. For Maria Jose, the group became a second family, a social outlet, and it was
Thelma Paula Matos
Maria Jose Franca
Paula Matos. Thelma has been a part of the group for years; she was introduced to the group by a friend when her husband died in 1994. This fun-loving, enthusiastic individual is quick to share her birth story. Thelma was in such a hurry to be born, that she was delivered in the taxi that was taking her mother to a Rhode Island hospital. Her mother nicknamed her “my butterfly”; and true to the nature of the butterfly, Thelma flitters from person to person, leaving them with a smile or holding their sides with laughter. For Thelma, this group offers her a chance to be with others, to give back, and
her excuse to get out of the house. Recruited by Juraci from CSS, this gave her a mission or “job” to do, and she jumped at the opportunity. But what Maria Jose is best known for by the group is her soup. Maria Jose prepares a different soup each week that begins the meal the group shares. She shared that her family is taking her and her husband to Las Vegas for their 40th wedding anniversary in a few weeks, and the members are panicking over who will make the soup. Now meet, Maria Helena Medeiros. Mrs. Medeiros is one of the original members of the group, joining in 2001,
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Vidalia offers a “high tea” a few times per year, which honors members for their accomplishments and perseverance. Members are also encouraged to share their talents with the group and over the years that have had a host of talented individuals. Two current members, Conçeicão Pimentel and Carlos Pavao, are both poetry writers and are given the opportunity to share their artistry with the group. These individuals, like everyone present, are given a voice, a chance to be heard. Besides orchestrating the group activities, Vidalia also helps the members fill out paperwork, arranges for transportation to and from doctor visits, and has taken individuals to Boston to immigration appointments. When needed, she also helps with groceries and other tasks that older members Maria Helena Medeiros can no longer do on their own. something she missed This group, its leadduring the pandemic. ership, volunteers, and These are just some the parish community, go of stories, but one can above and beyond to proquickly see the common vide a welcoming envithread — a chance to be ronment for the seniors in with others, to feel like our diocesan communithey belong, to be part of something that gives them ties. The group embodies hope and a feeling of self- the message of Pope Francis, “Let us protect them, worth, and to feel cared so that nothing of their for and loved. This care and concern for its mem- lives and dreams may be lost. May we never regret bers was especially evithat we were insufficientdent during the pandemly attentive to those who ic, when like many other loved us and gave us life” groups, gatherings did (Homily from the first not and could not occur, so members kept track of World Day for Grandparents, July 2021). each other and provided For more information support and presence — about the Santo Christo ensuring that members Senior Group, contact stayed connected. Vidalia Medeiros at 508In addition to the on-going group activities, 330-1942. when it was first founded. This soft-spoken woman is beloved by all and has become the unofficial “mom” of the group. It was her membership that brought Vidalia and her sister Judith to the group. Vidalia would bring her mom to the group meetings, joining her on her days off. For Mrs. Medeiros, the group gives her an opportunity to get together not only with her daughters, but with others in her community. It is a social outlet she looks forward to each week,
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here’s a famous story told by Dr. Erwin Lutzer, former pastor of The Moody Church in Chicago, of a man who told him that when he was a young boy in Germany during the Holocaust, the church he attended with his family was in front of railroad tracks. Each Sunday, they would hear the train whistling by. Eventually, however, they started to hear cries coming from the speeding trains and realized that the train cars had to be carrying Jews on the way to concentration camps. Because they did not want to hear the tormented screams, they changed the program of the Sunday service so that they would be singing hymns when the trains were scheduled to approach. “By the time the train came past our church,” Lutzer recounted the repentant man telling him, “we were singing at the top of our voices. If we heard the screams, we sang more loudly and soon we heard them no more.” I recount that story, first, because religious people and others regularly face the temptation to “sing more loudly” when confronted head-on with the troubling reality of evil in the world. But I also do so because I fear that if wrote on any other subject this week than on what is going on in the Ukraine, I, myself, would come off as engaging in high volume chanting. Other subjects will have to wait. We need to hear the cries and respond with more than sweet-sounding melodies. That’s what Pope Francis asked the world to do together on Ash Wednesday. At the end of his February 23 General Audience, the Holy Father stated, “My heart aches greatly at the worsening situation in Ukraine. I would like to appeal to everyone, believers and non-believers alike. Jesus
A far more intentional Lent taught us that the diabolical senselessness of violence is answered with God’s weapons, with prayer and fasting. I invite everyone to make March 2, Ash Wednesday, a day of fasting for peace. I encourage believers in a special way to dedicate themselves intensely to prayer and fasting on that day.” Four days later, after praying the Angelus with pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square, he reiterated the appeal. “In recent days we have been shaken by something tragic: war. Let us pray to God more intensely. I renew to all the invitation to make March 2, Ash Wednesday, a day of prayer and fasting for peace in Ukraine, a day to be close to the sufferings of the Ukrainian people, to feel that we are all brothers and sisters, and to implore of God the end of the war.” Initially I was frustrated with the Holy Father’s choice of date. “Why wait a week for something so urgent?” I thought, deeming that if Russian propaganda and aims were to be believed, Kyiv and most of Ukraine would already be by that point in Putin’s hands. Moreover, I think it’s generally imprudent even to give the perception of diminishing the most important Spiritual realities to garnish for earthly concerns, as happened last Easter Sunday, when headlines were changed from the Christian celebration of Jesus’ Resurrection to the International Day for Mine Awareness, because of a letter the pope published that morning to the UN Secretary-General. Eventually, however, I began to see that if Catholic priests and faithful focused on Ash Wednesday this year without reference to the Ukraine, we would all be running the deadly risk of
just “singing more loudly.” Indeed if we try to live Lent just adding an intercession for the Ukraine at Mass or an extra Hail Mary at the end of a family Rosary, we would be, I think, missing the point of what Lent is, what Lenten conversion is supposed to accomplish, and how our prayer, fasting and almsgiving are meant to change us. What’s happening in Ukraine — not to mention in Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Mali, Myanmar, Syria, Yemen and
elsewhere — is meant to bring us to conversion. The world often behaves like the rich man in Jesus’ parable as Lazarus is dying at his gate: feasting sumptuously while others are starving, suffering, and even under attack (Lk 16:19-31). While whole societies are attacked by militarized bandits and left to die in urban ditches, many just change the channel and, like the priest and Levite in the Parable of the Good Samaritan, pass by (Lk 10:29-37). The conversion that Lent is meant to bring about is not just a minor course correction but a thorough change in the way we look at God, ourselves, others and reality. It involves beginning to look at the world through Jesus’ lenses, of having our own hearts burst with pity for the crowd, and of drawing near to care for others whenever we find them hungry, thirsty naked, far from home, sick, imprisoned — or being assailed by missiles, cluster munitions, tanks, grenades, bombs, and bullets. The USA, in particular, needs a national conversion. To whom more is given, more is to be expected (Lk
12:48). In the not too distant past, other nations looked to the United States as a nation of valor, ready to get engaged to defend the innocent against maleficent bullies, even at supreme cost. We formed generations of heroes who, in the image of the Good Shepherd, were willing to lay down their lives for people they didn’t even know. While certainly imperfect, we prized virtue and sought to be — and help others to become — courageous and good. In the view of many in the developing world today, we have gradually become bullies rather defenders, ideological colonizers mandating adhesion to destructive tenets of the sexual revolution as a precondition to official development assistance, or economic predators exploiting the vulnerability of peoples with one-sided deals. At home, rather than forming new generations with heroic virtue, we have prioritized “safe spaces” and manipulated educational, sports and military standards as if we were dealing with doll houses that could be rearranged according to the emotivist spirit of the age. Many of our leading citizens are competing for an imaginary Neville Chamberlain Statesmanship Award — and pretending it’s an honor. We need conversion. We need God. We need to think, speak and act differently. The three traditional Lenten practices Jesus addresses in the Gospel heard on Ash Wednesday are not only general medicine but particularly relevant remedies to the situation in the Ukraine. Our prayer needs to change. We need to pray as if life depends on it, because many lives do. We need to intercede for the people of the Ukraine the way
Abraham did for the few righteous, Moses did for the Israelites, and Jesus on the cross did for us. Jesus promised that faith the size of a mustard seed could move mountain ranges and we should take Him seriously: praying for God to open the eyes of the warmongers or close them permanently; imploring for peace, first by removing the planks from our eyes, so that we can be effective peacemakers and builders restoring the tranquility of order without. Our fasting needs to change. We need to fast like the people of Nineveh for mercy, like Moses on the mountain in reparation for the sins of Israel, like Queen Esther in petition to save her people, like Jesus so that we might live by every word that comes from God’s mouth. Some evils, the pope reminds us, are expunged only by prayer and the corporeal petition of the body. Our charity needs to change, as we concretely love our neighbor in our worldwide neighborhood. Both those under attack in the Ukraine and those who have fled to other countries need help. Reliable international Catholic organizations like the Knights of Columbus and Aid to the Church in Need have extensive networks to deliver that aid through the Churches. The people under attack from those seeking to kill or subjugate them, however, need more than money — and our country has more than money to give. In response to the reality in the Ukraine, the conversion and transformed prayer, fasting, and charity that began on Ash Wednesday in response to Pope Francis’ appeal should continue throughout Lent and indeed until the end of the invasion. Anchor columnist Father Roger Landry can be contacted at fatherlandry@ catholicpreaching.com.
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Editorial The pope’s Lenten Message
Pope Francis begins his Lenten Message by urging us to reflect on this quote: “Let us not grow tired of doing good, for in due time we shall reap our harvest, if we do not give up. So then, while we have the opportunity (kairós), let us do good to all” (Gal 6:9-10). The pope then applies these words to our lives today. “The Apostle evokes the image of sowing and reaping. St. Paul speaks to us of a kairós: an opportune time for sowing goodness in view of a future harvest. Lent is certainly such an opportune time, but so is our entire existence, of which Lent is in some way an image.” Pope Francis continues, “Often, greed, pride and the desire to possess, accumulate and consume have the upper hand.” We need “a change in mindset, so that life’s truth and beauty may be found not so much in possessing as in giving, not so much in accumulating as in sowing and sharing goodness.” God takes the initiative in sowing first, since He “continues to sow abundant seeds of goodness in our human family. During Lent we are called to respond to God’s gift by accepting His word. Regular listening to the Word of God makes us open and docile to His working (cf. Jas 1:21) and bears fruit in our lives. This brings us great joy, yet even more, it summons us to become God’s co-workers (cf. 1 Cor 3:9). This call to sow goodness should not be seen as a burden but a grace,” as we collaborate with God. Then we look to the results, as the pope rhetorically asks, “Do we not sow seeds in order to reap a harvest? Of course! But what kind of harvest are we talking about? A first fruit of the goodness we sow appears in ourselves and our daily lives, even in our little acts of kindness. In God, no act of love, no matter how small, and no ‘generous effort’ will ever be lost. Just as we recognize a tree by its fruits (cf. Mt 7:16, 20), so a life full of good deeds radiates light (cf. Mt 5:14-16) and carries the fragrance of Christ to the world (cf. 2 Cor 2:15).” We won’t see all of the results of our labors, “since, according to the Gospel proverb, ‘one sows, while another reaps’ (Jn 4:37). When we sow for the benefit of others, we share in God’s Own benevolent love [and it] frees us from narrow self-interest, and makes us part of the magnificent horizon of God’s benevolent plan.” Listening to God’s Word “broadens and elevates our vision: it tells us that the real harvest is eschatological, the harvest of the last, undying day. Jesus Himself uses the image of the seed that dies in the ground in order to bear fruit as a symbol of the mystery of His death and Resurrection (cf. Jn 12:24); while St. Paul uses the same image to speak of the resurrection of our bodies: ‘What is sown is perishable, but what is raised is imperishable’ (1 Cor 15:42).” The pope warns us to not despair, since we have the ‘great hope’ of eternal life, because of Jesus’ “planting the seed of Salvation in our present time (Benedict XVI, Spe Salvi, 3,7). Bitter disappointment at shattered dreams, deep concern for the challenges ahead and discouragement at the poverty of our resources, can make us tempted to seek refuge in self-centeredness and indifference to the suffering of others. Yet God ‘gives strength to the weary, OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF FALL RIVER Vol. 66, No. 5
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† March 4, 2022
He strengthens the powerless. Those who hope in the Lord will regain their strength, they will soar on wings like eagles; though they run they will not grow weary, though they walk they will never tire’ (Is 40:29, 31).” To do that, the pope says that we can’t get tired of praying. “If the pandemic has heightened the awareness of our own personal and social fragility, may this Lent allow us to experience the consolation provided by faith in God, without Whom we cannot stand firm (cf. Is 7:9). No one attains Salvation alone, since we are all in the same boat, amid the storms of history; and certainly no one reaches Salvation without God, for only the Paschal Mystery of Jesus Christ triumphs over the dark waters of death. Faith does not spare us life’s burdens and tribulations, but it does allow us to face them in union with God.” Then Pope Francis said that we must continuously pull out the evil in our lives. “May the corporal fasting to which Lent calls us fortify our spirit for the battle against sin. Let us not grow tired of asking for forgiveness in the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation, knowing that God never tires of forgiving. Let us not grow tired of fighting against concupiscence, that weakness which induces to selfishness and all evil, and finds in the course of history a variety of ways to lure men and women into sin. One of these is addiction to the digital media, which impoverishes human relationships. Lent is a propitious time to resist these temptations and to cultivate instead a more integral form of human communication made up of authentic encounters, face-to-face and in person.” Next, he reminds us that we need to always be doing acts of charity. “God Who ‘supplies seed to the sower and bread for food’ (2 Cor 9:10) enables each of us to be generous in doing good to others. Let us take special advantage of this Lenten season to care for those close to us and to reach out to our brothers and sisters who lie wounded along the path of life (cf. Lk 10:25-37). Lent is a favorable time to seek out — and not to avoid — those in need; to reach out — and not to ignore — those who need a sympathetic ear and a good word; to visit — and not to abandon — those who are lonely. Let us put into practice our call to do good to all, and take time to love the poor and needy, those abandoned and rejected, those discriminated against and marginalized.” The pope points out that “goodness, together with love, justice and solidarity, are not achieved once and for all; they have to be realized each day. Let us ask God to give us the patient perseverance of the farmer (cf. Jas 5:7). If we fall, let us stretch out our hand to the Father, Who always lifts us up. If we are lost, if we are misled by the enticements of the evil one, let us not hesitate to return to God, Who ‘is generous in forgiving’ (Is 55:7). The soil is prepared by fasting, watered by prayer and enriched by charity.” The pope ends by invoking the Blessed Mother, “who bore the Savior in her womb and ‘pondered all these things in her heart’ (Lk 2:19),” asking that she “obtain for us the gift of patience. May she accompany us with her maternal presence, so that this season of conversion may bring forth fruits of eternal Salvation.”
Daily Readings † March 12 - March 25
Sat. Mar. 12, Dt 26:16-19; Ps 119:1-2,4-5,7-8; Mt 5:43-48. Sun. Mar. 13, Second Sunday of Lent, Gn 15:5-12,17-18; Ps 27:1,7-9,13-14; Phil 3:17—4:1 or Phil 3:20—4:1; Lk 9:28b-36. Mon. Mar. 14, Dn 9:4b-10; Ps 79:8-9,11,13; Lk 6:36-38. Tue. Mar. 15, Is 1:10,16-20; Ps 50:8-9,16b-17,21,23; Mt 23:1-12. Wed. Mar. 16, Jer 18:18-20; Ps 31:5-6,14-16; Mt 20:17-28. Thu. Mar. 17, Jer 17:5-10; Ps 1:1-4,6; Lk 16:19-31. Fri. Mar. 18, Gn 37:3-4,12-13a,17b-28a; Ps 105:16-21; Mt 21:33-43,4546. Sat. Mar. 19, 2 Sm 7:4-5a,12-14a,16; Ps 89:2-5,27,29; Rom 4:13,16-18,22; Mt 1:16,18-21,24a or Lk 2:41-51a. Sun. Mar. 20, Third Sunday of Lent, Ex 3:1-8a,1315; Ps 103:1-4,6-8,11; 1 Cor 10:1-6,10-12; Lk 13:1-9. Mon. Mar. 21, 2 Kgs 5:1-15b; Ps 42:2-3; 43:3-4; Lk 4:24-30. Tue. Mar. 22, Dn 3:25,34-43; Ps 25:4-5b,6,7bc,8-9; Mt 18:21-35. Wed. Mar. 23, Dt 4:1,5-9; Ps 147:12-13,15-16,19-20; Mt 5:17-19. Thu. Mar. 24, Annunciation of the Lord, Jer 7:23-28; Ps 95:1-2,6-9; Lk 11:14-23. Fri. Mar. 25, Is 7:10-14; 8:10; Ps 40:7-11; Heb 10:4-10; Lk 1:26-38.
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his meditation begins a series on genocide because this topic by mandate will be taught in Massachusetts schools, as was stated in the New Bedford-Standard Times at the end of 2021. This will not be the topic of my meditations in every issue of The Anchor, but will also contain more traditional topics of meditation. There will be no blame or condemnation assigned, but rather some facts for your consideration that could easily be omitted, overlooked or downplayed by the curriculum. I am of an age that I remember being taught about eugenics in high school. Henry Goddard popularized the proposals of eugenics through his writings about the Kallikak and Jukes families (fictitious names assigned to real people in his study). It was great fun for us to use these names as insults for other students as we trod the halls of academia. Hey, we were kids! Based on the popularity of eugenics and the pride of educated white U.S. citizens of European heritage, more than 30 states passed forced sterilization laws in the early 20th century. Anyone who did not fit the eugenics’ view
Genocide Part I of racial perfection was a potential would have termed our sterilizations legal and ethical. I have target. This included most immilooked up several definitions of grants, Blacks, Indigenous peoethical and have found the word ple, poor whites and people with moral as disabilities. a constant More than synonym for 60,000 U.S. ethical. Be residents careful with were sterilthese words Father Martin ized against and undertheir will Buote stand that in 32 states ethical often during the 20th century. I believe the last was means what current public opinion will tolerate. If Nazi-forced in 1964. Over time, eugenics programs sterilizations were immoral, then in the United States amplified sex- so were those performed in this ism and racism. Margaret Sanger is often looked upon as a great heroine of sexual liberation. In reality, she was a racist and eugenicist who hoped to reduce the Black population by contraception. The Nazi government looked upon eugenics with glee. The Third Reich’s 1933 (my birth year) “Law for the Prevention of Offspring with Hereditary Diseases” was modeled on laws in Indiana and California. Under this law, the Nazis sterilized approximately 400,000 children and adults, mostly Jews and other “undesirable” labeled “defective.” The eugenicists of our nation
Guest Columnist
country in response to the corrupt theory of eugenics. O Christian, take a few minutes out of your busy day to consider how many procedures and courses of action are presented to us in the Year of Our Lord 2022 as legal and ethical, but are immoral by a higher standard. Do you care? Become well informed! Don’t simply leave it all to the movers and shakers in medicine, technology and government. Father Buote is a retired priest of the Diocese of Fall River, and a regular Anchor contributor.
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The other side of a choice
ife is filled with choices. Do you want chocolate ice cream or vanilla? A hamburger or pizza? The blue coat or the red one? Should I complete a college degree or acquire a specific marketable skill or a trade. Should I take this job or that one, this career opportunity or another? Should I make a commitment now and marry someone that seems to be the love of my life or should I wait and give this important decision more time for reflection. Jesus talked about choices.
In John 8:31-32, “If you remain in My word, you will truly be My disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” In these words did Jesus speak about the most important choice of all. We might ask ourselves if we are free, or may rationalize that we are free enough. We may wonder why it is that so many people are not free. It may be safe to say that our level of freedom is directly connected to
the world in which we live, and the very real distractions, difficulties and worldly desires, that chal-
Guest Columnist Greta MacKoul
lenge our Spirituality and the faith we embrace. How can we also, in the words of Jesus, “belong to what is above,” and experience the world as something that cannot hold us.
Visit the Diocese of Fall River website at: fallriverdiocese.org
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As we begin the season of Lent, we are once again faced with questions such as these as we reflect upon the opportunity for Spiritual growth. For many people, Lent is a favorite time of year; a time of a collective decision made by many people in the world, to grow closer to God. What will this Lenten season be for us as we make our own personal choices for Spiritual renewal? For most people Lent is a childhood teaching. We learn in a small yet significant way, the meaning of sacrifice, giving to others and the value of prayer. As a child we may have given up our favorite TV show, or candy or soda. As we matured during our elementary school years we may have spent time helping family or neighbors, visiting the lonely or helping the
poor. The seeds of faith were born. Good and lasting values are formed within us as children through our families, our Church, parish Religious Education and Catholic schools. So grateful am I for the teaching and example of the Dominican nuns who played a significant role in my education during my elementary school years. As a child I remember sitting in my room upstairs, hearing the faint dialog of my favorite TV show which my siblings were watching downstairs. Like many families, we did not have a big house, and there was only one TV. As I sat there doing my homework, while missing my favorite show, I realized that I could survive without “my” favorite things. The choice of a Lenten journey and prayer, fasting and almsgiving is ours. May we all grow closer to God this Lenten season. May we remember more often those who will never have a choice between chocolate and vanilla ice cream, a hamburger or pizza or a blue coat or a red coat. At the end of our Lenten journey, may we find renewed faith, hope and Spiritual strength through a deeper understanding and realization that “the truth will set us free.” Surely we can embrace the favorite things of God. Greta MacKoul, Catholic Lay Chaplain at Cape Cod Hospital, is a parishioner of Christ the King Parish in Mashpee.
Synodal process coming alive in diocese (Fifth in a series about the people of the Diocese of Fall River participating in the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops.) “The Synod is a process of Spiritual discernment, of ecclesial discernment, that unfolds in adoration, in prayer and in dialogue with the word of God,” says Pope Francis. While the current consultations in the Fall River Diocese may initially seem like singular events, the synodal process is envisioned as an ongoing way of life within the Church. It continually seeks the guidance of the Holy Spirit through prayer, listening and discernment. Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., also sees the synodal process as an integral part of Church revitalization beginning at the parish level. “Conversations and efforts regarding revitalization must include all those who comprise the People of God in a particular place,” stated the bishop in his Journeying Together pastoral letter. “How good it would be to see all the faithful take a more active role in the transmission of the faith.” The bishop’s vision may
be taking root at synodal consultations taking place across the diocese as some parish ambassadors at a recent “zoom meeting” reported back that participants are eager to see the process continue. While specific information will be extracted from parish meetings into a diocesan synthesis, the intent is that the expressions and hopes from each synodal gathering will be widely shared and serve as a basis for continuing discernment within the individual parishes. Parishes are the primary faith communities within the diocese, but not the only ones. Consistent with the Synod mission of reaching out to as many people as possible, consultations are also taking place in many other environments including colleges, schools, Religious communities, and Catholic Social Services agencies. “If the parish is the house of all in the neighborhood, not an exclusive club, I recommend that you leave the doors and windows open; do not limit yourselves to those who frequent the parish or think like you,” the pope said in addressing representatives
of the Diocese of Rome last September. “Let everyone enter. Let their questions be your questions; allow yourselves to walk together. The Spirit will lead you. Do not be afraid to enter into dialogue; it is the dialogue of Salvation.” Parish Synod News • St. Patrick Parish in Wareham is asking parishioners to reach out to family and friends who are not regularly joining in Eucharistic celebration and invite them to participate in Synod consultations. Synodal sessions are set for three Wednesday evenings – March 9, 16 and 23. • The parishes of Annunciation of the Lord in Taunton and St. Nicholas of Myra in North Dighton are joining together inviting attendance at one of two planned synodal gatherings — March 9 at Annunciation parish or March 16 at St. Nicholas. In urging attendance, Father David Deston stated: “Our goal is to strengthen our Church, our diocese and our parish so that we may be better disciples and may make the love of Christ, which flows from His Sacred Heart, more present in a world that needs that love more than ever.” • St. Peter The Apostle Parish in Provincetown will begin the synodal process with Adoration on Saturday, April 2, followed by a parish listening and discussion session on Saturday, April 23. In the parish bulletin inviting participation, it is stated that “the process of Church Renewal begins with each one of us and our parish. It is time to reset, rekindle, reconnect, strengthen, revitalize and renew our Church and our parish.”
• Our Lady of Grace Parish in Westport will hold a synod “listening meeting” on Saturday morning March 5 following the 9 a.m. Mass. • St. Theresa of the Child Jesus parish in South Attleboro has sent a synod survey to all parishioners and invited them to attend an in-person meeting on Saturday, March 12. • St. John the Baptist Parish in Westport has invited parishioners to two synodal consultations —
Saturday morning March 12 and Sunday morning March 27. • “Spring cleaning makes you think of opening up the windows, letting the stale air out and the fresh air in. This spring, we have a chance to do the same thing at our parish to help renew the Church,” say the parish ambassadors at Our Lady of Lourdes parish in Wellfleet. Parishioners have been asked to mark their calendars for a synod meeting on Sunday, April 24.
Become involved Let us Hear From You! — What do you want to know about the Synod? — What is your parish doing? We’re listening @ synodnews@anchornews.org Prayer for the Sy no d We stand before You, Holy Spirit as we gather in Your name. With You alone to guide us, make Yourself at home in our hearts; Teach us the way we must go and how we are to pursue it. We are weak and sinful; do not let us promote disorder. Do not let ignorance lead us down the wrong path nor partiality influence our actions. Let us find in You our unity so that we may journey together to eternal life and not stray from the way of truth and what is right. All this we ask of You, Who are at work in every place and time, in the communion of the Father and the Son, forever and ever, Amen. March 4 2022 †
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Diocesan schools invite families to rediscover Catholic schools continued from page one
ent is articulated in their own words. “I could not be more grateful to OLOL!” exclaimed Kara Lawrence, vice principal of Our Lady of Lourdes School in Taunton, and parent of two students. “It has completely shaped my children into these wonderful little people. You will never regret
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sending your children to a Catholic school.” Liam Powell, a junior at St. John Paul II School in Hyannis said, “Catholic schools help families grow in their faith as their children bring it back to their household and help the family grow as a whole.” Catholic schools are a
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close community of students, parents, teachers, and staff all working together to achieve the same goal of creating saints. To achieve this, Catholic schools naturally foster the development of character, faith, and academic skills required to be successful in a world longing for more
good people. So how are Catholic schools uniquely able to do this? Our focus on each child as a gift from God ensures that children get the personalized attention and care they need to thrive. Our Catholic schools educate the hearts and minds of students. — Catholic schools continue to academically outperform public schools. The most recent national reading and mathematics assessment results show Catholic schools continue to stand out.[i] — Our teachers and staff are called to a vocation. They love what they do, and, as lifelong educators, they believe it is their calling to help every student infuse the love of Christ within themselves and the lives of their families. — We recognize that school is more than academics — it’s the whole experience. Athletics, the arts, and co-curricular activities build friendships and form a family bond. These experiences are an extension of the classroom and another way to teach virtue, respect, and accountability. As Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., says, “The value of Catholic schools and what Catholic schools do for our young people no one else can do. We can offer not only a quality academic education, but we offer values and faith.” Join the thousands of new families who have “rediscovered Catholic schools” by calling your nearest Catholic school and setting up a tour. Elementary school scholarships (K – grade 8) are available through the Foundation to Advance Catholic Education (FACE) and applica-
tions are currently being accepted. Awards are up to $2,000 per year based upon financial need and all financial concerns can be addressed directly with the schools’ principals. Go to www.Rediscover CatholicSchools.org for more information. The Catholic Schools Alliance comprises administrators, teachers, staff, parents, and clergy joined in partnership to educate the children of the diocese in Catholic faith and values. Our schools have a demanding educational culture that helps students reach their God-given potential across the academic spectrum. With an emphasis on service and respect for the dignity of every person, we prepare students
Students from St. Mary-Sacred Hearts School in North Attleborough and Espirito Santo School in Fall River.
to meet the challenges of today’s diverse world and become meaningful contributors to society.
[i]https://www.ncea.org/ NCEA/How_We_Serve/News/ Press_Releases/Catholic_Schools_ Continue_to_Academically_Outperform_Public_Schools.aspx?WebsiteKey=60819b28-9432-4c46-a76a-a2e20ac11cfd
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he senior screamed, “I will grind him into the dust of the earth.” He pointed to the blackboard behind me as he continued, “And don’t give me any mushy stuff about those Italian counts choosing life over their assigned revenge killings!” The board held that day’s prayer reflection quote: “Character is what a man does when he thinks he can get away with it.” I asked what his friend had done. He replied, “Former friend. He betrayed me. I will never forgive him.” I reminded him that Jesus had asked us to love our enemies (Lk 27:6). He replied, “Yeah but, .…” A while later he finished with, “Jesus should watch a little more TV. Then, Jesus would know the ways of the world.” His anger abated, he giggled. I gently shared that difficult situations like that required each of us to prayerfully find the balance between the responsibility to work for justice, but to leave vengeance to God. Sometimes strength was found in the victory for justice. Sometimes though, strength was found in stepping away. Jesus’ words on love your enemies were as shocking to people 2,000 years ago as we found them today. The world labeled early Christian communities as those “ADJECTIVE” people who loved their enemies. To many, the adjective was “crazy.” Those who had experienced God’s love in loving one’s enemies were those who knew the correct adjective was “wise.” Perhaps before
Love your enemies rejecting the idea, he could give a little thought to the fact that an idea so difficult to mankind had never died out. In 2022, that student’s, “Yeah but…” resonates deeply with me. A vicious cyber-attack stole my emails, devices, and Apple ID. For two-plus months, as I sought to rebuild, the hacker repeatedly knocked me down. In my grief, I could not shake my personal failure to live up to my classroom mantra: Real men and women build something that lasts long after they are gone. The hacker crushed into oblivion the materials I had wished to bring to fellow educators. My entire academic life is now inaccessible to me. Gratitude the attack wasn’t worse lessened but did not remove the pain. I tried to pray for my enemies. The words were there, but my heart was not in it. A priest I spoke with gently reminded me that wasn’t good enough. I think my Guardian Angel is correct about the fact that I sometimes need a visual and dramatic wake up call. Sister Joan Chittister reminds us that “Humility makes listeners of us. And in listening to everything that happens to us, we find God’s word for us.” God had a few gentle whispers for me. With no work, no Internet, and no TV, the cabin fever was intense. I went out to purchase some books on CD. With “Eagles Wings” playing in the
background, I asked God which way to go at one turn. The answer was, “Go left. R.I. is a small state. All roads lead to the destination.” The sun broke free from the clouds as Crawford sang, “You need not
fear the terror of the night nor the arrow that flies by day.” I told God I wished to find the courage to again live in the world with no fear. I drove along picturesque back roads with absolutely no idea where I was. I simply leaned in to God’s love and peace. As beautiful as the afternoon was, I eventually grew tired. I told God I was alone and lost. Before I even reached the end of the thought, there was a bend in the road. Crawford sang, “Hold you in the palm of His hands.” Before me was Sakonnet Point! I parked. My brain said, “Across the water is the store with the CDs.” My heart said, “Do you not yet understand that isn’t the point? And chill on the phytoplankton and whales reminisces.” To me, walking in nature has always been a Sacred space for conversation with God. That day, the wind chill and the ice on the rocks kept me in my car. But, I told God I understood. The hacker had done everything he could to isolate and crush
me. I had known the fear of feeling defenseless standing before a superior enemy. But, I’d never been and would never be alone. God and His conduits of love would surround me at all times. Even better, no matter where I landed, God had a road map for moving forward. With the PTSD brought on by the very personal and very drawn out attack, falling asleep was difficult. One night, instead of grief at its loss, my mind replayed the story of one photo. The picture is an ugly, amorphous brown blob. The memory is of a young adolescent and I each with our hand on the meteor. He grinned and said “It feels like iron.” I grinned and said, “That iron came to earth four billion years ago!” Reaching out to enrich students’ lives was where I was called to make a difference. That day, in the deepest fiber of my being, I knew the joy of being right where I had been called to serve. I told the hacker I had the better part of it. I got to experience then treasure all the priceless memories. OK Lord, I am begin-
ning to understand. You have the road map. You set the time for everything. Again, I replayed the boy leaving the meteor. He turned back to smile and thank me before happily running off. Lord, I realize I need to be more like that child. I need to find the courage to simply move on. I am ready to continue my worldly wanderings. Today, I better understand how praying for one’s enemies allows one to step away from their evil influence. I am not at all sure where I am headed in a world (for now) bereft of personal Internet. But, I remember and believe what Sister Claire had expressed as You’re writing straight with crooked lines. That is, regardless of the evil intent of any humans, You can bring forth good. I will take the next step trusting in Your Providence. Anchor columnist Dr. Helen J. Flavin, Ph.D., is a Catholic scientist, educator and writer.
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T he C hurch and Y outh & Y oung A dults Bon appétit: From fast food to fine dining
s I pulled into the parking lot of this restaurant, I found myself a bit out of place. The cars in the lot did not look like my finely crafted black Honda Civic coupe. Nonetheless, I pulled into an open space next to a fully detailed luxury car. I straightened up my flat brim fitted hat, adjusted my shirt to make sure I didn’t look sloppy, jeans pressed, sneakers looking good, and not creased. I entered the restaurant excited to have a good meal with friends. Music played slightly in this dimly lit restaurant, while “Four Seasons” from Antonio Vivaldi played loud enough for conversations to be muffled but not overpowered. I sat with my friends, we looked at the menu, and I realized at that moment, “This is not your typical restaurant.” This is a fine dining, Michelin Star worthy establishment, and I have the appetite of a man who is ready to consume something from fast food places’ secret menu. Regretfully, I was not as confident ordering as I was walking into this place, so I recruited some help from the waiter. Most of the things I could not pronounce, and some of the ingredients were unnoticeable to me. I placed my order and waited. Once it arrived, I wanted to devour the food, but something instinctively told me, “no.” I took my first bite, and instantly knew, “This was something special.” This food, I needed to experience and not consume hastily. The next bite made me feel as if I was in a different place. The following bite made me feel as if for a moment in time I 12
had stepped into Heaven. It was the slowest meal I ever had, and to this day, I can talk about it and feel as if I was there. This triggered my Spiritual curiosity. Do I take in the Word of God as I took in that meal? Chef Thomas Keller says, ”A recipe has no soul. You as the cook must bring soul to the recipe.” Thomas Keller is a American-born chef who holds multiple three-star ratings from the Michelin Guide and chosen to be the first American to be a Chevalier of The French Legion of Honor. Chef Keller is simply saying that a simple ingredient is given life and elevated by the hands of a creator. A chef is an artist, like other artists, that uses the plate as their canvas. They imitate either knowingly, or unknowingly, our Creator; God the Father. God Who spoke the simple words: “Let there be light, and there was light” (Gen 1:3) set into motion all of Creation in just one phrase. God took mere human words and elevated them by giving it life. Human words can not truly convey the greatness of God, nor His power, yet have been elevated to life altering power. To further the power of words the Word of God, “became flesh and made His dwelling among us, and we saw His glory, His glory as of the Father’s only Son, full of grace and truth” (Jn 1:14). If God the Incarnate Word has poured Himself out to reach us, then why do we minimize the Word as if we are consuming it like a frozen burger patty picked
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up at a drive-thru window during rush hour? When we get a taste of the mercy, forgiveness, and power of Jesus Christ via an encounter or relationship, we can no longer be content with consuming the Word as we did in the past, such as reading words from a
book. But then, the words have to take on an elevated form in our lives, even if we do not fully understand the depths of it. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways — Oracle of the LORD. For as the Heavens are higher than the earth so are My ways higher than your ways” Is 55:8-9. These words came to Isaiah as an invitation of grace to all who hear them. We may understand words in their simplest forms and academic structure of lexicon, phonics, and grammatical structure, but deep in the Creator’s work, there is a flavorful complexity that we must take the time to sit and digest in order to appreciate God’s savory intention. Once we dive into what God is saying to us via His Word, it should motivate us into action and propel us into proclamation of the Good News, because the Holy Spirit Who breathed life into those words, is that same breath breathed into us. The Sunday Liturgy (Mass), models for us how we should approach Sacred
Scripture via the Prayer of the Church, in the Liturgy of the Word. First, we start in prayer, collecting the people together to prepare. Consider this bite-size introduction, the Amusebouche, preparing our Spiritual palate. A first reading from the Old testament is like an appetizer that prefigures the meal about to be received. The Psalms, which the “Catechism” says: “both nourished and expressed the prayer of the People of God (CCC#2586), is like a warm cup of soup or bisque that warms our inner selves and prepares the palate for the meal that is to come. The second reading, which is like a perfectly crafted salad, introduces some of the ingredients that will be on display during the main
course. Finally, the main course of the Proclamation of the Gospel, fulfills the consumption of the previous Word. This leads you to the reception of our soul’s dessert, our faiths all sweetness and hope: the Eucharist. As the waiter helped me in my first fine dining experience, it is my hope that I have helped you to navigate the menu which is the Word of God. Today the Creator has a four-course meal designed to elevate your palate and call you to action. Enjoy, consume slowly, and tell the world what you have experienced with Ecriture Sainte. Bon appétit! Anchor columnist Oscar Rivera Jr., is director of Youth Ministry in the diocesan Secretariat for the New Evangelization. orivera@dioc-fr.org
First Course: “He therefore let you be afflicted with hunger, and then fed you with manna” ~ Deuteronomy 8:3 Second Course: “Give me understanding to keep Your law to observe it with all my heart.” ~ Psalm 119:34 Third Course: “Be doers of the word and not hearers only, deluding yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his own face in a mirror. He sees himself, then goes off and promptly forgets what he looked like.” ~ James 1:22-24 Final Course: “He replied, ‘Rather, blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it.’” ~ Luke 11:28
Pope Francis appeals for end to ‘tragic’ Ukraine conflict VATICAN CITY — (CNA) Pope Francis appealed on Sunday for an end to the Ukraine conflict. In his first direct public comments since the Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, the pope called for humanitarian corridors to be opened to allow Ukrainians to flee the
intense fighting. “In recent days we have been shaken by something tragic: war. Time and again we have prayed that this road would not be taken. And let us not stop talking; indeed, let us pray to God more intensely,” he said after reciting the Angelus on February 27. Referring to his appeal to people around the world
Diocese of Fall River TV Mass on the Portuguese Channel Sunday, March 6 at 7 p.m. Broadcast from Santo Christo Church in Fall River
Diocese of Fall River TV Mass
on the Portuguese Channel Sunday, March 13 at 7 p.m. Broadcast from St. Anthony Church in Taunton
Diocese of Fall River TV Mass on WLNE Channel 6 Sunday, March 6 at 11:00 a.m.
Celebrant is Father Dariusz Kalinowski, Parochial Vicar, Santo Christo Parish, Fall River
Sunday, March 13 at 11:00 a.m.
Celebrant is Father Stephen Banjare, SS.CC., Pastor of St. Joseph Parish, Fairhaven
to pray and fast for peace, he said: “For this reason, I renew to all the invitation to make March 2, Ash Wednesday, a day of prayer and fasting for peace in Ukraine. A day to be close to the sufferings of the Ukrainian people, to feel that we are all brothers and sisters, and to implore of God the end of the war.” He continued: “Those who wage war forget humanity. They do not start from the people, they do not look at the real life of people, but place partisan interests and power before all else. They trust in the diabolical and perverse logic of weapons, which is the furthest from the logic of God. And they distance themselves from ordinary people, who want peace, and who — the ordinary people — are the real victims in every conflict, who pay for the follies of war with their own skin.” In his live-streamed address, the pope said that he was thinking of “the elderly, of those who seek refuge in these times, of mothers fleeing with their children. They are brothers and sisters for whom it is urgent to open humanitarian corridors, and who must be welcomed.” As pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square held up large Ukrainian flags, the 85-year-old pope said that his heart was “broken” by the scenes in Ukraine. He urged people not to forget ongoing conflicts in other countries, such as Yemen, Syria, and Ethiopia. “I repeat: put down your weapons! God is with the peacemakers, not with those who use violence. Because those who love peace, as the Italian Consti-
tution states, ‘repudiate war as an instrument of offence against the liberty of other peoples and as a means for settling international disputes.’” Pope Francis had been due to visit the Italian city of Florence on Sunday but was forced to postpone the trip due to knee pain. Since the launch of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the pope has engaged in behind-the-scenes efforts to help end the conflict. On February 25, he visited the Russian Embassy to the Holy See, located on the Via della Conciliazione near the Vatican. The Catholic author George Weigel told Catholic World Report that the pope spoke with Putin via a secure telephone line during the visit. The Holy See press office said that the pope went to the embassy “to show his concern for the war,” but did not mention a phone call to the Russian president. On the same day, Pope Francis called Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk, the leader of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic
Church, who is based in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv. The pope promised to do everything he can to help end the war. On February 26, Pope Francis expressed his sorrow at the situation in Ukraine in a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The U.N. refugee agency said on February 27 that 368,000 people have fled Ukraine since the start of the invasion. More than 150,000 people have crossed the country’s western border into Poland. More than 43,000 have entered Romania via Ukraine’s southern border. Thousands have also crossed into Moldova, to the south, and Slovakia, to the West. The Catholic Church in Poland is offering refuge to thousands of people fleeing Ukraine. Caritas Internationalis, a Vatican-based confederation of Catholic charities, has launched an emergency appeal to support the work of two Ukrainian organizations: Caritas-Spes and Caritas Ukraine.
March 4 2022 †
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Diocesan Secretariat for the New Evangelization and HCFM partner to offer diocesan faithful resources and opportunities for prayer and worship this Lent
EASTON — As we celebrate Lent, the Diocese of Fall River’s Secretariat for the New Evangelization is sharing resources and opportunities, in partnership with Holy Cross Family Ministries, whose headquarters is based within our diocese in Easton. In particular, they are offering an invitation for: 1. Families to pray together throughout the diocese The conversion of families (including our own) is the tipping point for Church renewal. This booklet is a simple tool to
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help families build up the habit of family prayer over a period of time, such as Lent. Families can access
an e-version of Holy Cross Family Ministries’ Family Prayer Book for free either on www. faithformation.org/lent or www.praytogethernow. com. Daily calls to prayer from the booklet will be posted on Facebook (@seeevangelization) and Instagram (@see_
† March 4, 2022
thedrop). 2. Families to encounter a model of hope found right within our diocese We need hope, and the saints offer us ready witness to hope. Buried in our diocese, and currently on the road to canonization, is Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, C.S.C. Best known as the “Rosary priest,” he made famous the phrases that “the family that prays together, stays together” and “a world at prayer is a world at peace.” The movie “Pray” presents an inspiring witness of his life and of families transformed by prayer. Through a partnership with Holy Cross Family Ministries, the diocese is able to offer parishes within the Diocese of Fall River a license to host in-person, public showings of “Pray” the film for the next six months. There is no cost to parishes. Watching the film, either as a parish or individually, can be an opportunity to gather your family together to generate conversation and invite them to pray. Individuals can purchase the movie for personal use by visiting www.hcfmstore.org. Parish leaders, who need a copy of the movie to show for their parish, can contact the Secretariat for the New Evangelization to receive a copy. 3.Parish leaders, catechists and volunteers to be renewed All parish leaders,
staff, catechists and volunteers are welcome to attend one of three regional events on March 15, 16, and 23. Entitled The Peak, these experiences allow for community, talks, discussion, ideas for Church ministry, Ado-
ration, Confession, and worship. Individuals can RSVP at https://bit.ly/MarchPeak For more information or access to Lenten resources, individuals can visit www. faithformation.org/lent
In Your Prayers Please pray for these priests and deacons during the coming weeks: March 12 Rev. Aurelien L. Moreau, Pastor, St. Mathieu, Fall River, 1961 Rev. Adrien E. Bernier, Pastor, St. Mathieu, Fall River, 1989 Rev. George I. Saad, Retired Pastor, Our Lady of Purgatory, New Bedford, 1991 March 13 Rev. William Davis, SS.CC., 2007 March 16 Rev. Francis J. Maloney. S.T.L., Pastor, St. Mary, North Attleboro, 1957 Rev. Thomas J. Tobin, C.S.C., Holy Cross Community, North Dartmouth, 2006 March 17 Rev. Henry Robert Creighton, SS.CC., Damien Residence, Fairhaven, 2004 Permanent Deacon Michael E. Murray, 2008 Rev. Bartley MacPháidín, C.S.C., Retired President, Stonehill College, Easton, 2016 March 18 Rev. Robert D. Forand, C.P., West Hartford, Conn., 1989 Permanent Deacon Frank W. Mis, 2011 March 19 Rev. John J. McQuaide, Assistant, St. Mary, Taunton, 1905 March 20 Rev. Francis A. Mrozinski, Pastor, St. Hedwig, New Bedford, 1951 Permanent Deacon Lawrence St. Pierre, 2017 March 21 Rev. William (Alphonsus) Mitchell, SS.CC., 2009 March 22 Rev. Joseph A. Martins, Assistant, St. John the Baptist, New Bedford, 1940 Rev. James T. Keefe, SS.CC., Chaplain, U.S. Army, 2003 Rev. Francis X. Wallace, Senior Priest, St. Patrick, Falmouth, 2018 March 23 Rev. James F. Kelley, USN Retired, Archdiocese of Anchorage; Former Assistant, St. Mary’s, Mansfield, 2002 Rev. Norman J. Boulet, 2015 March 24 Rev. John J. Murphy, C.S.C., My Brother’s Keeper, Easton, 2004 March 25 Rev. John J. Brennan, SS.CC. Retired Founder, Holy Redeemer, Chatham, 1991 Permanent Deacon Thomas Prevost, 2007 Rev. Paul L. Deyo, SS.CC., 2008
I
often write about my affinity for birds, dogs, and just about any form of life surrounding we human beings. Nature is one of God’s greatest gifts to us. Such a gift to me are trees. I believe in a past column I wrote about my efforts to prevent an Japanese Maple tree just yards from my deck that was pummeled by a winter storm with very strong southeast winds. During the nasty snow-ladened tempest the tree began to list to the west. I couldn’t bear to watch the tree tumble, especially since we lost a large pine tree during a blizzard in that very spot years earlier. I went out side and wedged a
The tree is a lot like us
fairly large two-by-four, propping the tree, giving it half a chance against the relentless onslaught. It did survive and after some phone calls, landscapers came and secured my pal and it’s been growing and flourishing since. I once had my ancestry traced on one of those online sites after sending a DNA sample. It turns out that I’m 90 percent French, about five percent Welsh and two percent Indigenous
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North American. So according to that, I do have First Nation or Native American blood. I think there’s where my love for nature originates. When I was knee-high to a grasshopper, I would climb the low branches of the trees in my pépère’s yard on Smithies Street in Fall River. As I got older, I climbed higher and felt right at home with amongst the limbs, twigs and leaves. I grew up on Whipple Street and across the street from my home lived my other pépère and mémère, and they had an enormous Sugar Maple tree on their property. It gave shade to a half dozen properties. That tree was witness to me and my seemingly hundreds of cousins as we played beneath it’s expansive spread. In the fall, when the good old Maple shed it’s leaves we would make piles and play for hours. That is the infamous tree from which I fell as an 11-year-old and shattered my left arm. One would think at that moment, my love for the big old Maple would have broken along with my radius and ulna. I was put in a burdensome cast of plaster of Paris from my fingers to my bicep. It weighed more than the rest of my body combined. It was hot, itchy and my companion for a whole summer — meaning I couldn’t go swimming or play anything physical. So what did I do all summer? I spent my time reading and playing board games under the outstretched arms of my good old Maple tree. We were still best friends. As I grew older, I saw my old friend less and less and then learned it had to be cut down (not exactly sure why, though). It struck a nerve to know its more than 100 years of existence was coming to an end. A few weekends back, Denise and I decided to go for a ride to break the monotony of cabin fever. I drove down my old street and peered into the yard that was once home to my grandparents, aunts,
cousins and the site of countless hours of fun. I knew the good old Maple was gone, but as I gazed where the majestic tree had spent more than a century, it saddened me to see not a trace of my old friend. The whole landscape was different. The tree was a major part of my life; and like losing my grandparents, mom and dad and Igor, it left a nagging void. I recently finished a book, “The Bear is my Father,” by Marcellus Bear Heart Williams, a “multli-tribal Muscogee Creek medicine man,” a man who knew nature in a way many of us never will and who was also a devout Baptist. In his book he wrote, “When the wind blows through a tree, the leaves are singing praise to the Creator.” When he was young, one of his elders and teachers told him, “If that tree could talk it could teach us a lot of things.” If my good old Maple tree could have spoken, it would have told stories of love, family, fun, heartbreak and pain. It would have also shared how blessed it was to be able to provide shade during the hot summer days, and colorful displays during the fall. It would have said how, while dormant during the winter, it proudly displayed signs of hope and new beginnings when its first buds appeared in spring. My good old Maple grew from a simple seed into a glorious gift from the “Great Spirit.” I would love to have watched it grow from a sapling to a tree with a trunk three or four feet in diameter. Bear Heart continued, “I learned that the tree is a lot like us. It has long roots with which it gets nourishment from our Mother Earth. It nurses from our Mother, who sustains the life of the tree. Its life-sustaining sap is like the blood going up and down in our bodies.” I believe that. My good old Maple may be gone, but I have memories of it and it actually appears in home movies I have that Larry took over the years. And I have another tree that has befriended me and of which I nurture, so that its leaves may sing praise to the Creator. davejolivet@anchornews.org March 4 2022 †
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† March 4, 2022