The Catholic News & Herald 1 July 13, 2007 SERVING CATHOLICS IN WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA IN THE DIOCESE OF CHARLOTTE Silver jubilee Good Shepherd Mission celebrates anniversary | PAGE 6 Culture Watch Potter movie review; saint gets MySpace page | PAGES 10-11 Uniting new families CSS helps families adopt children from Russia | PAGE 7 JULY 13, 2007 VOLUME 16 N o . 34 www.charlottediocese.org Perspectives Father Daly remembers a baby who mattered; Borchard examiens generosity vs. enabling | PAGES 14-15 Established Jan. 12, 1972 by Pope Paul VI Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte PHOTO BY DEACON GERALD POTKAY Ann Peiffer and Orpha Russell, parishioners of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Mocksville, tie prayer knots on lap quilts for 16 men and women serving in the U.S. military July 1. Bonds of hopes and prayers CNS PHOTO BY GREGORY A. SHEMITZ, LONG ISLAND CATHOLIC Father James Pereda celebrates a Tridentine Mass at St. Pius X Chapel in Uniondale, N.Y., July 8. Pope Benedict XVI has relaxed restrictions on the use of the Latin- language liturgy that predates the Second Vatican Council. Vatican congregation reaffirms truth, oneness of Catholic Church See CHURCH, page 8 The old is new again BY DEACON GERALD POTKAY CORRESPONDENT MOCKSVILLE — Catholics in Mocksville have created a special way to honor and pray for U.S. troops and their families. Sixteen men and women from St. Francis of Assisi Church in Mocksville, who are currently overseas serving in the U.S. military, were honored by their fellow parishioners with a Mass and reception July 1. During the Mass, Father Andrew Draper, pastor and member of the Third Order Regular of St. Francis, blessed specially-designed lap quilts for the families of the 16 troops. Ladis Zimmerle, wife of Deacon John Zimmerle and Partners in caring Catholic moms endeavor to help children in need See CHILDREN, page 7 See LATIN, page 9 BY JOHN THAVIS CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE VATICAN CITY — In a long-awaited overture to disaffected Ca1tholic traditionalists, Pope Benedict XVI relaxed restrictions on the use of the Tridentine Mass, the Latin-language liturgy that predates the Second Vatican Council. The pope said Mass celebrated according to the 1962 Roman Missal, commonly known as the Tridentine rite, should be made available in every parish where groups of the faithful desire it. He said that while the new Roman Missal, introduced in 1970, remains the ordinary way of Catholic worship, the 1962 missal should be considered “the extraordinary expression of the same law of prayer.” “They are, in fact, two usages of the one Roman rite,” Defining ‘church’ Parishioners craft ‘prayer squares’ for U.S. troops overseas BY KAREN A. EVANS STAFF WRITER INDIAN TRAIL — These days, it seems like $20 doesn’t buy a whole lot — a large pizza, a month’s birthday cards or a T-shirt (if it’s on sale). But two Catholic stay- at-home moms have found a way to make $20 go a long way to help needy children in Mecklenburg County. For Amy Barsanti and Cynthia Ladimir, what began as an idea for a small business creating and selling gift baskets has evolved into a mission to serve children whose families can’t afford the small luxuries many middle- and upper-class children take for granted. See QUILTS, page 5 Pope relaxes restrictions on use of Tridentine Mass BY JOHN THAVIS CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE VATICAN CITY — In a brief document, the Vatican’s doctrinal congregation reaffirmed that the Catholic Church is the one, true church, even if elements of truth can be found in separated churches and communities.
Transcript
The Catholic News & Herald 1 July 13, 2007
Serving CatholiCS in WeStern north Carolina in the DioCeSe of Charlotte
Culture WatchPotter movie review; saint gets MySpace page
| Pages 10-11
Uniting new familiesCSS helps families adopt children from Russia
| Page 7
july 13, 2007 voluMe 16 no. 34
www.charlottediocese.org
PerspectivesFather Daly remembers a baby who mattered; Borchard examiens generosity vs. enabling
| Pages 14-15
established jan. 12, 1972 by Pope Paul vi
Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte
Photo by Deacon GeralD Potkay
Ann Peiffer and Orpha Russell, parishioners of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Mocksville, tie prayer knots on lap quilts for 16 men and women serving in the U.S. military July 1.
Bonds of hopes and prayers
cnS Photo by GreGory a. Shemitz, lonG iSlanD catholic
Father James Pereda celebrates a Tridentine Mass at St. Pius X Chapel in Uniondale, N.Y., July 8. Pope Benedict XVI has relaxed restrictions on the use of the Latin-language liturgy that predates the Second Vatican Council.
Vatican congregation reaffirms truth, oneness of Catholic Church
See CHURCH, page 8
The old is new again
by DEACON GERALD POTKAy
CORREsPONDENT
M O C K S V I L L E — Catholics in Mocksville have created a special way to honor and pray for U.S. troops and their families.
Sixteen men and women from St. Francis of Assisi Church in Mocksville, who are currently overseas serving in the U.S. military, were honored by their fellow parishioners with a Mass and reception July 1.
During the Mass, Father Andrew Draper, pastor and member of the Third Order Regular of St . Francis , blessed specially-designed lap quilts for the families of the 16 troops.
Ladis Zimmerle, wife of Deacon John Zimmerle and
Partners in caringCatholic moms endeavor to help children in need
See CHILDREN, page 7
See LATIN, page 9
by JOHN THAVIsCATHOLIC NEws sERVICE
VATICAN CITY — In a long-awaited overture to d i s a f f e c t e d C a 1 t h o l i c traditionalists, Pope Benedict XVI relaxed restrictions on the use of the Tridentine Mass, the Latin-language liturgy that predates the Second Vatican Council.
The pope said Mass celebrated according to the 1962 Roman Missal, commonly known as the Tridentine rite,
should be made available in every parish where groups of the faithful desire it.
He said that while the new Roman Missal, introduced in 1970, remains the ordinary way of Catholic worship, the 1962 missal should be considered “the extraordinary expression of the same law of prayer.”
“They are, in fact, two usages of the one Roman rite,”
Defining ‘church’
Parishioners craft ‘prayer squares’ for U.S. troops overseas
by KAREN A. EVANssTAff wRITER
INDIAN TRAIL — These days, it seems like $20 doesn’t buy a whole lot — a large pizza, a month’s birthday cards or a T-shirt (if it’s on sale).
But two Catholic stay-at-home moms have found a way to make $20 go a long way to help needy children in Mecklenburg County.
For Amy Barsanti and Cynthia Ladimir, what began as an idea for a small business creating and selling gift baskets has evolved into a mission to serve children whose families can’t afford the small luxuries many middle- and upper-class children take for granted.
See QUILTS, page 5
Pope relaxes restrictions on use of Tridentine Mass
by JOHN THAVIsCATHOLIC NEws sERVICE
VATICAN CITY — In a brief document, the Vatican’s d o c t r i n a l c o n g r e g a t i o n reaffirmed that the Catholic Church is the one, true church, even if elements of truth can be found in separated churches and communities.
2 The Catholic News & Herald July 13, 2007
Current and upcoming topics from around the world to your own backyardInBrief Argentine cleric becomes first priest
on trial for ‘dirty war’ crimes
What Would Jesus Charge?
PublisHer: Most reverend Peter J. JugisediTor: Kevin e. MurraysTaff WriTer: Karen a. evans GraPHiC desiGNer: Tim faragheradverTisiNG MaNaGer: Cindi feerickseCreTary: deborah Hiles
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JULY 13, 2007Volume 16 • Number 34
ASHEVILLE VICARIATEARDEN — The St. Martin de Porres Dominican Laity Chapter meets the fourth Monday of every month at 7 p.m. at St. Thomas Aquinas Academy, 564 Long Shoals Rd. Inquirers are welcome. For more information contact Joe Kraft at (828) 648-1036 or [email protected] — The St. Francis of the Hills Fraternity of the Secular Franciscan Order meets the fourth Sunday of each month 1-3 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Church, 208 7th Ave. West. Visitors and inquirers are welcome. For more information, contact Joanita Nellenbach, SFO, at (828) 627-9209 or [email protected].
BOONE VICARIATEJEFFERSON — Father Matthew Buettner will present a lecture July 16 at 6 p.m. in the parish hall of St. Francis of Assisi Church, 326 East Main St. The topic of the lecture will be related to his book, “The Mystery of the Mass.” Please call (336) 246-9151 for more information.SPARTA — St. Frances of Rome Church, Hendrix and Highlands Rds., sponsors the Oratory of Divine Love Prayer Group in the parish house the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at 1 p.m. Call (336) 372-8846 for more information.
CHARLOTTE VICARIATECHARLOTTE — St. Basil the Great Ukrainian Byzantine Catholic Church will have a Ukrainian Mass in English in the chapel of Charlotte Catholic High School, 7702 Pineville-Matthews Rd., the third Sunday
of each month at 10 a.m. The Mass is open to anyone who would like to attend. For more information, please contact Father Mark Shuey at [email protected] or (919) 779-7246.CHARLOTTE — Brad Jones and David Miller, seminarians for the Diocese of Charlotte, will present various topics in Wednesdays with Brad and David. All sessions meet 7-8:30 p.m. in the reception room at St. Vincent de Paul Church, 6828 Old Reid Rd. Jones will give “An Introduction to Catholic Liturgy” July 18. Miller will present “Why Catholics Pray to Mary” July 25 and “The Five Marian Dogmas: Defending the Truths of Christ” Aug. 1. For more information, call the church office at (704) 554-7088.CHARLOTTE — All high school and college students are invited to “How Not to Lose the Dating Game,” an informative talk on the virtue of chastity by Dominican Sister Jane Dominic. The presentation will take place July 19, 7-9 p.m. in the St. Gabriel Church Ministry Center, 3016 Providence Rd. Food and door prizes will be provided. For more information or to RSVP, e-mail [email protected] — Dominican Sister Jane Dominic will speak on Pope Benedict XVI’s encyclical “God is Love” July 20 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Vincent de Paul Church, 6828 Old Reid Rd. For more information, e-mail [email protected] — “Celebrating the Role of the Laity: Called and Gifted,” a workshop focusing on the role of lay Catholics in the world — at work, in the family, among friends and in parishes, will take place July 28, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., at St. Vincent de Paul Church, 6828 Old Reid Rd. There is no charge to attend, but registration is required. Call (704) 554-9655 for more information and to register.CHARLOTTE — The St. Matthew Summer Bible Institute will take place Aug. 6-10,
DiocesanplannerCafe’s patrons pay what they think
meal is worth or work to pay tabDENVER (CNS) — If Jesus opened
a restaurant, it might resemble Denver’s SAME Cafe — a priceless joint where all the food is made from scratch and anyone’s welcome to eat regardless of ability to pay.
SAME (“So All May Eat”) is not a soup kitchen, with organic menu items such as “garlic and feta” or “eggplant and roasted red pepper” pizza. Yet there are no prices attached to anything.
Instead, customers see a donation box on the counter. They are asked to consider what the meal was worth and to pay what they can. Those who cannot pay are asked to consider busing tables after dining, or helping in some other way.
Sometimes, families with children are found washing dishes after a classy restaurant meal the parents normally couldn’t afford.
Brad and Libby Birky, who opened the cafe last fall, have no system for policing their “pay-at-will or volunteer” system, and they’re certain a small fraction of customers dine and dash with no donation of any kind.
But they also know that some customers pay far more than anyone would ask. One man ate a modest meal last fall and quietly left a $500 check in the box. Another man routinely walks in, refuses to eat and leaves a small cash donation. He’s homeless.
“If Jesus ran a restaurant, would he use this model?” asked Brad Birky. “We’d like to think so. Not that we’re comparing ourselves to Jesus or his work. We’re just inspired by him and his work.”
Which might explain why the Birkys welcomed in a dirty, smelly vagrant who was living in a park. He became a regular, and then a friend.
The man, known as Kidd, first came in during the winter and offered to sweep
or mop the floors in exchange for hot food. He was trying to save up money to get back home to New Orleans and re-establish himself. He asked for nothing but food, and always worked for an hour after lunch.
“Then one day a very well-dressed man walked into the restaurant and acted like he knew the place,” Brad Birky said. “He was clean-shaven and looked quite professional.”
The sharply dressed man was Kidd. He had saved up money from shoveling snow, bought new clothes and a bus ticket home to New Orleans.
“He came in to say thanks, and to say goodbye. He was on his way home to make a success of his life,” Brad Birky said.
Libby Birky, 30, earned a master’s degree in gifted education and Brad Birky, 32, made good money in computer science; the couple was on the path to the perfect upscale life.
“It wasn’t fulfilling,” Brad Birky said. “It just wasn’t what we were supposed to be doing with our lives. We had both been raised with the notion that we should give back and be involved in the community.”
In 2002 the Birkys volunteered at the Catholic Worker House. Off hours, Brad Birky attended culinary school at Metropolitan State College. Then they came up with the idea that became their cafe.
The Birkys put about $50,000 into establishing the not-for-profit cafe and it’s almost to the point of sustaining itself. Neither takes a paycheck from the cafe, and Libby teaches to pay the bills.
Brad Birky said their model could work for other businesses, such as medical and dental clinics.
“We’re having fun and creating a social, fun place to hang out and build community. We absolutely love it,” he said.
BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (CNS) — A former Argentine police chaplain became the first Catholic priest on trial for human rights violations against leftist dissidents during Argentina’s “dirty war” in the 1970s.
Father Christian von Wernich went on trial July 5 on charges of complicity in seven murders, 31 cases of torture and 42 kidnappings during Argentina’s 1976-83 dictatorship, in which an estimated 30,000 people died or disappeared.
Father von Wernich denied the charges and said his job was to provide pastoral care to police officers.
Argentine President Nestor Kirchner said priests such as Father von Wernich “dishonor the church.”
The 126 witnesses in Father von Wernich’s case accuse him of being involved in the organization of kidnappings and death squads. They say they saw him at two secret detention centers, where state security forces held and tortured alleged leftist opponents.
There, his role was to try to convince victims to talk during breaks in their torture. Some witnesses recalled him asking if victims had learned their lesson and urging them to talk “because God wants that.”
Father von Wernich was the personal confessor of notorious former Buenos Aires police chief Ramon Camps, who was convicted of running a string of detention centers and for scores of cases of kidnappings, torture and murder, before being freed under amnesty laws in the late 1980s. Those laws were overturned by the Argentine Supreme Court in 2005, opening the way for a flood of trials.
Father von Wernich, who has been under arrest since 2003, said there were no detention centers at the police buildings. However, according to documents, Father von Wernich “had a conspicuous presence in the so-called Camps,” and exerted “psychological and moral torture.”
The Argentine bishops’ conference has not commented on the case.
cnS Photo by JameS baca, Denver catholic reGiSter
Brad and Libby Burky stand outside SAME Cafe in Denver. Their not-for-profit restaurant offers healthy, organic food with no set prices. The cafe invites patrons to pay what they feel their meal is worth, or more if they want to help pay for someone else’s food. A person also can exchange an hour’s work for a meal at SAME (So All May Eat).
The Catholic News & Herald 3 July 13, 2007
Vatican official says foreign aid must focus more on creating jobs
froM THe vaTiCaN
9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in the New Life Center banquet room of St. Matthew Church, 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy. Susan Brady will present “Born From Above,” based on the Gospel of John. To register, call (704) 541-8362, ext. 4.CHARLOTTE — New Creation Monastery invites you to a day of silence and solitude in the presence of Almighty God. The monastery offers private spiritual retreats for lay people. Write to Father John Vianney Hoover at New Creation Monastery, 1309 Duncan Gardens Dr., Charlotte, N.C., 28206, stating why you want to go on retreat and when. For more information, call (704) 344-0934.
GREENSBORO VICARIATEGREENSBORO — The Men’s Bible Study Group at St. Paul the Apostle Church, 2715 Horse Pen Creek Rd., meets Tuesdays at 6:30 a.m. in the Parish Life Center, room 4. The group will discuss the Books of Acts, through Sept. 18. Bring your own Bible. For more information, contact Gus Magrinat at [email protected] or John Malmfelt at (336) 665-6450 or [email protected].
HICKORY VICARIATEMORGANTON — As Christians we struggle daily with negative emotions such as anger, anxiety and despair. “Spirituality of the Emotions” offers an opportunity to bring together insight, prayer and group support in this struggle. Dr. Ronda Chervin will present this program Wednesdays, 7:30-8:45 p.m., through Aug. 8. These free classes will meet at St. Charles Borromeo Church, 728 West Union St. For more information, call Dr. Chervin at (828) 413-4624 or St. Charles Borromeo Church at (828) 437-3108.
SALISBURY VICARIATESALISBURY — Elizabeth Ministry is a peer ministry comprised of Sacred Heart Church parishioners who have lost babies before or shortly after birth. Confidential peer ministry, information and spiritual materials are offered at no cost or obligation to anyone who has experienced miscarriage, stillbirth or the death of
a newborn. For details, call Renee Washington at (704) 637-0472 or Sharon Burges at (704) 633-0591.
WINSTON-SALEM VICARIATEWINSTON-SALEM — A course on Natural Family Planning will begin Aug. 19, 1:30-3:30 p.m. at St. Leo the Great Church, 335 Springdale Ave. Class dates are Aug. 19, Sept. 16, Oct. 21 and Nov. 18. The Sympto-Thermal Method of NFP is safe and medically proven 99.9% effective. Couples with marginal fertility will also benefit from working with their natural mutual fertility instead of against it. Call Todd and Stephanie Brown at (336) 765-2909 for more information.CLEMMONS — A Charismatic Prayer Group meets Mondays at 7:15 p.m. in the eucharistic chapel of Holy Family Church, 4820 Kinnamon Rd. Join us for praise music, witness, teaching, prayers and petition. For more details, call Jim Passero at (336) 998-7503.CLEMMONS — The Knitting Ministry of Holy Family Church, 4820 Kinnamon Rd., meets Monday evenings, 6:30-8 p.m., to pray, learn to knit, reflect on life’s lessons and reach out to others in our community. Contact Rosemary at (336) 766-2315 or Carmel (336) 766-0650 for more information.KERNERSVILLE — Holy Cross Church, 616 S. Cherry St., hosts a Senior Coffee House the first and third Mondays of each month, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., in Salesian Hall in the Child Development Building. Call the church office at (336) 996-5109 ext. 12 for directions or information.
is your parish sponsoring a free event open to the general public? deadline for all submissions for the diocesan Planner is 15 days prior to desired publication date. submit in writing to [email protected] or fax to (704) 370-3382.
Lucky 7s
July 17 — 5:30 p.m.Catholic social services annual board meetingCatholic Conference Center, Hickory
July 29 — 11 a.m.Installation of Father Francis t. Cancro as pastorQueen of apostles Church, belmont
Episcopalcalendar
Bishop Peter J. Jugis will participate in the following events:
GENEVA (CNS) — Foreign investment and development aid must increase and be focused more on creating jobs and improving education in the world’s poorest countries, a Vatican official said.
Archbishop Silvano Tomasi, Vatican representative to international agencies based in Geneva, told the U.N. Economic and Social Council July 4, “The question to be posed is not whether, but how additional aid should be given.”
He said, “Poverty elimination demands an integration between the mechanisms that produce wealth and the mechanisms for the distribution of its benefits.”
While decrying the fact that most wealthy nations are not meeting their pledges for foreign development aid, the archbishop said the international community also must ask why developing countries are not making greater progress with the aid they have received and with the foreign debt forgiveness they
have been granted. Archbishop Tomasi called for more focused aid programs, particularly to create jobs and improve education. Work, he said, is the only way for a community to generate its own wealth and pay its way out of poverty.
When combined with education, which not only prepares people for the job market but also for good citizenship, “it is easier to reduce corruption — one of the plagues of poor countries — and to improve respect for law and property rights, crucial for the positive functioning of an economic system,” he said.
The archbishop also urged the international community to take stronger action to ensure that companies doing business in poor countries create a higher level of local employment and provide local populations with access to better training and technology. The creation of wealth on a worldwide scale has not eliminated poverty and has increased the frustration of the poor, he said.
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Despite a serious drop in the value of the U.S. dollar, the Vatican’s 2006 budget closed with a surplus of more than $3.2 million, said Cardinal Sergio Sebastiani, head of the Vatican’s general accounting office.
While salar ies and pension contributions increased, a “brusque and accentuated” drop in the value of the U.S. currency was a big reason why the surplus was so much less than the 2005 surplus of $12 million, the cardinal said July 6.
Presenting the 2006 consolidated budget of just the Holy See, primarily the Roman Curia, Cardinal Sebastiani said the value of the Vatican’s accounts was down an estimated $9.5 million solely because of the dollar’s drop against the euro.
Most donations to the Vatican and some of its investments are in dollars, yet the Vatican’s expenses are mainly in euros.
Cardinal Sebastiani presented the budget figures to the international Council of Cardinals for the Study of the Organizational and Economic Problems of the Holy See July 2. A July 3 press release noted a huge increase in 2006 donations to Peter’s Pence, a fund placed at the personal disposition of the pope and used mainly for his charitable giving. The donations totaled almost $102 million, an increase of more than $42.4 million over 2005.
Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, Vatican spokesman, said July 6 that the figure included some “exceptional donations,” although he would not specify how many or from whom.
The Vatican does not expect a repeat performance in the 2007 Peter’s Pence total, he said.
The Holy See budget results included the office in charge of Vatican property and investments, the papal household, Secretariat of State, nine congregations, 11 pontifical councils, three tribunals, 118 Vatican embassies around the world and the Vatican media operations: Vatican Radio, the daily newspaper, television production center, publishing house and printing press.
Their combined expenses added up to almost $307 million, while their combined income reached just over $310 million. The statement said 2,704 people, including 773 bishops and priests, 331 members of religious orders and 1,600 laypeople, are employed in the Holy See offices.
While Peter’s Pence is not included in the Holy See budget figures, the figures do include donations from dioceses, religious orders and foundations given specifically to support the work of the central church offices.
Catholics in the United States still give more money to the Vatican than those from any other nation. The donations to the Holy See by all groups totaled almost $117 million in 2006, an increase of more than $16 million over the 2005 total.
The Vatican said the separate budget of Vatican City State, which includes the Vatican Museums and the Vatican’s stamp and coin office, ended 2006 with a surplus of $29.7 million.
cnS Photo by tom DermoDy, the catholic PoSt
A shower of bubbles greets Jamie and Zac O’Brien as they leave St. Joseph Church in Pekin, Ill., after their wedding Mass July 7. That Saturday was a popular choice for weddings because of its 7/7/07 date. A number traditionally considered lucky, seven also has a religious significance. Bride Jamie O’Brien, however, said the date has a practical advantage: “Zac won’t forget the anniversary.”
2006 Vatican budget closes with surplus; Peter’s Pence up $42 million
4 The Catholic News & Herald July 13, 2007AROUND ThE DIOCESE
Parishioner honored for volunteer service at VA center
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ABBOTSWOOD SENIOR LIVING
(336) 282-8870The only full service retirement living address in the heart of Irving Park
3504 Flint Street • Greensboro, NC 27405 • www.kiscoseniorliving.com
Abbotswood at Irving Park enjoys an outstanding reputation of over 18 years of exemplary retirement living services. Join our independent seniors who enjoy:
- Largest 1- and 2-bedroom floor plans in Irving Park - Delicious, chef-created meals - Full-time wellness director - Month-to-month rentals with NO BUY-IN FEES - And, optional in-home health care services
For your personal tour, Call Kathie Woelk, parishioner at St. Pius X in Greensboro.
NO BUY-IN FEES
Abbotswood at Irving Park enjoys an outstanding reputation of over 18 years of exemplary retirement living services. Join our independent seniors who enjoy:- Largest 1- and 2-bedroom floor plans in Irving Park- Delicious, chef-created meals- Full-time wellness director- Month-to-month rentals with NO BUY-IN FEES- And, optional in-home health care services
For your personal tour, Call Kathie Woelk, parishioner at St. Pius X in Greensboro.
Photo by kevin e. murray
Frank Villaronga, director of evangelization and ministry formation for the Diocese of Charlotte, takes questions from the audience during a Theology on Tap gathering at a Charlotte restaurant May 29. Villaronga spoke on the topic of “Faith in Action.”
Theology on Tap, a speaker series for Catholics in their 20s and 30s, is an opportunity to explore Catholicism and issues and challenges faced by Catholic adults. Events usually feature a guest speaker — either clergy or lay — who answers questions.
The Archdiocese of Chicago’s young adult ministry founded the speaker series almost 30 years ago to try to bring back young adults, who tend to drift away from the church. The program aims to reach young adults where they are, and takes place in a variety of settings from restaurants and bars to parish halls.
The program has grown in popularity over the years and has inspired others to initiate similar speaker series. Dioceses in approximately 44 U.S. states and a half-dozen other countries now offer Theology on Tap.
In the Diocese of Charlotte, Theology on Tap is held in Charlotte and Greensboro. For more info in Charlotte, visit www.charlottetot.org; in Greensboro, visit www.triadcatholics.org.
courteSy Photo
Dr. Cris Villapando, director of faith formation programs for the Diocese of Charlotte, presents a certificate of appreciation from Bishop Peter J. Jugis to Marie Martino during Mass at St. Aloysius Church in hickory June 24. martino is retiring after 12 years as a parish catechetical leader, 25 years as a youth minister and catechist, and three years as a member of the diocesan faith formation office’s central region leadership team. A reception followed.
ASHEVILLE — Herbert Reith, a parishioner of St. Barnabas Church in Arden, was recently honored for outstanding volunteer service.
Dr. Susan Pendergrass, director of the Asheville Veterans Affairs Medical Center, presented Reith with a mantel clock during a recent volunteer recognition dinner in Asheville. Reith has logged more than 22,500 volunteer hours at the center.
The Asheville VA Medical Center serves western North Carolina and portions of South Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia with services including extended care rehabilitation, psychogeriatric care and general nursing home care.
Reith is an advocate in Knights of Columbus Council 8923 in Arden, immediate past president of Fleet Reserve Association Branch 361 in Asheville and commander of the Catholic War Veterans Post 1914 in Arden.
courteSy Photo
Dr. Susan Pendergrass, director of the Asheville Veterans Affairs Medical Center, presents herbert Reith, a parishioner of St. Barnabas Church in Arden, with a clock in recognition of his volunteer service.
Tapping into theology
Honoring a catechist
The Catholic News & Herald 5 July 13, 2007AROUND ThE DIOCESE
Parishioners craft ‘prayer squares’ for U.S. troops
QUILTS, from page 1
breathtaking countryside — traditions of our Catholic faith — legends of her people
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The Diocese of Charlotte invites you to leave winter behind and explore the
SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN and the PANAMA CANAL
January 31- February 11, 2008
All family and friends are welcome to join with Fr. Mo West as we cruise from Ft. Lauderdale, Floridaaboard Holland America’s luxury ship ms Volendam.
* Ft. Lauderdale -- guided airboat ride through the Everglades is included for all* Half Moon Cay, Bahamas – parasail, snorkel, snooze in a beach hammock, learn about Bahamian culture* Oranjestad, Aruba – water sports, glass bottom boats, shops galore, take a submarine ride or an excursion into the tropical countryside* Willemstad, Curacao – off coastal Venezuela, Dutch influence here in architecture, Delftware specialties, cuisine; also water sports, white sandy beaches, and more shops!* Panama Canal – experience the thrill of going through the locks to understand this magnificent, ingenious system lifting giant ships 85 feet above sea level * Puerto Limon, Costa Rica – tour tropical flower farms, ride Mawamba boats through jungle canals, explore fascinating museums, colorful native markets – so much to choose from in this paradise!
PLUS, all the fabulous amenities of one of Holland America’s most elegant, exciting cruise ships!
Price starts at $2,975 (double occupancy) and INCLUDES air fare from Charlotte, all ship meals, Florida hotel and airboat ride, hotel/ship transfers, taxes, baggage handling and all port charges! Deposits are due before August 1st and there is NO RISK to hold your space today – FULL REFUND of deposit before 7/31/07 with trip insurance. Plus, early bookings receive best cabin choice.
For a brochure or questions, call Cindi Feerick at the diocese — (704) 370-3332
PLUS, all the fabulous amenities of one of Holland America’s most elegant, exciting cruise ships!Price starts at $2,975 (double occupancy) and INCLUDES air fare from Charlotte, all ship meals, Florida hotel and airboat ride, hotel/ship transfers, taxes, baggage handling and all port charges!
Deposits are due before August 1st and there is NO RISK to hold your space today – FULL REFUND before 7/31/07. Plus, early bookings receive best cabin choice.
For a brochure or questions, call Cindi Feerick at the diocese — (704) 370-3332
* Ft. Lauderdale — guided Everglades airboat ride included for all* Half Moon Cay, Bahamas – parasail, snorkel, snooze in a beach hammock, learn about Bahamian culture* Oranjestad, Aruba – water sports, glass bottom boats, shops galore, take a submarine ride or an excursion into the tropical countryside* Willemstad, Curacao – off coastal Venezuela, Dutch influence here in architecture, Delftware specialties, cuisine; also water sports, white sandy beaches, and more shops!* Panama Canal – experience the thrill of going through the locks to understand this magnificent, ingenious system lifting giant ships 85 feet above sea level * Puerto Limon, Costa Rica – tour tropical flower farms, ride Mawamba boats through jungle canals, explore fascinating museums, colorful native markets – so much to choose from in this paradise!
SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN and the PANAMA CANAL
January 31- February 11, 2008
Your 12-day excursion includes stops and optional activities in:
The Diocese of Charlotte invites you to leave winter behind and explore the
All family and friends are welcome to join with Fr. Mo West as we cruise from Ft. Lauderdale, Floridaaboard Holland America’s luxury ship ms Volendam.
Limited seats for direct flight — call NOW!Deadline for deposit coming soon — Aug. 1!
coordinator of the parish prayer quilt ministry, along with Laurie Snook, Fran Wilkie, Sue Starre and Margaret Mondlak, made the lap quilts, or “prayer squares,” as a way of recognizing the service men and women’s dedication to protecting their country.
Each lap quilt features a design representing the specific branch of service in which the Army, Marine, Air Force and Navy personnel are serving. The lap quilts were laced with heavy thread, which the parishioners tied into square knots — prayer knots — as they prayed for the troops.
The parishioners tied their prayer knots on the lap quilts after all weekend Masses June 30-July 1 before being blessed by Father Draper and presented to the families as a reminder that people are praying for their relatives overseas. The lap quilts can be displayed or folded and kept in a pocket, for example.
Bernard and Susan Gerstemeier received a lap quilt for their two sons and nephew.
“It’s absolutely wonderful,” said Bernard Gerstemeier. “We pray that all of these young men and women will
come back safely.”Charles and Sandra Scholl received
a lap quilt on behalf of their daughter.“She will really appreciate this. She
will be taking it to Iraq when she leaves on the 30th,” said Scholl.
During Mass, Father Draper asked parishioners to join him in prayer for all the young men and women serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Contact Correspondent Deacon Gerald Potkay by calling (336) 427-8218 or e-mail [email protected].
Above: Marlene Williams (left) and Tara Boyce study photographs following a Mass for military personnel at St. Patrick Cathedral in Charlotte July 8. About 100 people attended the Mass, which Bishop Peter J. Jugis celebrated for all those who are currently serving in the U.S. military or who have died or been injured while serving.
Williams’ son Michael serves in the U.S. Marine Corps as an embassy guard in Rabat, Morocco.
Boyce’s sons both serve in the Marine Corps — Owen Boyce is serving his second tour in Iraq and Patrick Wilson will be deployed to Iraq this coming fall.
(Right) Two women pick up prayer cards for Father Emil Kapaun and Maryknoll Missionary Father Vincent Capodanno following the Mass.
Father Kapaun and Father Capodanno both died serving as military chaplains. Father Kapaun died in a prisoner-of-war camp during the Korean War and Father Capodanno was fatally wounded while giving last rites to Marines during a battle in the Vietnam War. Each has been named a “Servant of God” by the Vatican, the first step in the canonization process.
Photo by Deacon GeralD Potkay
Father Andrew Draper, T.O.R., pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Mocksville, blesses lap quilts in honor of 16 men and women serving in the U.S. military July 1.
Honoring sacrifices
PhotoS by karen a. evanS
6 The Catholic News & Herald July 13, 2007AROUND ThE DIOCESE
Sharing the Word of God
Celebrating cultures
room in the church. “Father Carl has played a strong
role in our group,” said Bossert, who co-celebrates the Friday night services for the Brevard Jewish Community at the church. “We are welcomed with courtesy, kindness and a truly ecumenical spirit.”
Ca tho l i c s in Brevard have experienced the need for a place to worship and the identity of being a minority in the community.
Sixty years ago, there were only a handful of Catholics in Transylvania County who were looking for a church in which to worship, said Father Del Giudice.
“Under this roof, God knows no boundaries. Every weekend, God is worshipped in Hebrew, English and Spanish,” said Father Del Giudice.
“This church is not only a sacred heart, but an open heart,” said Bossert.
Despite the differences in the two religions, the respect between the two faith communities is apparent in the interaction between the various members. Holiday greetings are exchanged, sacred seasons are acknowledged and events such as Seder meals are shared.
dId You KNoW?The scroll of the Torah was written by hand by a scribe and required almost a year of dedication to the work. Many rules are followed in accordance with scripture regarding the way the scroll is written, including that the parchment and the ink are both kosher; also if a mistake is made for any word used for God, that page must be removed from the scroll and destroyed, usually by burial.
by KATHLEEN HEALy sCHMIEDERCORREsPONDENT
BREVARD — For thousands of years, the Sabbath has been celebrated by Jews. Recently, both Jews and Christians united to celebrate the glory of God and the Word of God in Brevard.
The Brevard Jewish Community, which meets Fridays at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Brevard, celebrated its first regular Sabbath ceremony on Saturday, May 26. Approximately 100 people attended the multi-denominational gathering, during which the Jewish community dedicated a new Torah.
“You are a witness to history,” said Michele Barg, a member of the Brevard Jewish Community, to those gathered.
Barg headed the committee to purchase the Torah — the Jewish name for the Book of Moses, the first five books of Scripture. Christians generally call it the Pentateuch. The Torah is the law and tradition governing Jewish religious life.
During the ceremony, the Torah — housed in the Ark of the Covenant in Sacred Heart Church — was brought outside to the parking lot, where members of the community were afforded the opportunity to carry the sacred Scripture.
Inside, the Torah was unrolled and read. The dedication ceremony moved many people to tears.
The relationship between Catholics and Jews in Brevard began in 2001, when Father Carl Del Giudice, pastor of Sacred Heart Church, was approached by Pat and Jay White of the Jewish community’s board of directors about using a meeting
Good Shepherd Mission celebrates silver jubilee
KING — The members of Good Shepherd Mission in King recently celebrated the church’s silver jubilee.
Approximately 200 members and former members attended the Mass, Benediction and luncheon June 10.
Celebrating the Mass was Father Lawrence Heiney, pastor of St. Benedict the Moor Church in Winston-Salem and Good Shepherd Mission. Concelebrating was Father Eric Kowalski, pastor of Holy Angels Church in Mount Airy, and Father Joseph Kelleher, a retired priest of the diocese.
Assisting at the Mass was Deacon David Boissey, permanent deacon at Good Shepherd.
During the summer of 1981, then-Bishop Michael J. Begley established a Catholic mission in the small Stokes County town of King, north of Winston-Salem. Local Catholics met in the town’s recreational center on Aug. 24, 1981, marking the first official assemblage of the community that would later become known as Good Shepherd Mission.
Good Shepherd became a mission of Our Lady of Mercy Church in Winston-Salem and Catholics began attending Mass at King Moravian Church in September 1981. By 1982, the mission had begun to organize ministries and outreach programs serving the Catholic
and local communities.Ten acres of land were donated
in 1984 for the building of a Catholic church; construction began in 1988 and in November 1989, then-Bishop John F. Donoghue dedicated the building that could accommodate 95 people.
In August 1987, Jesuit Father Thomas Gaunt was named pastor of St. Benedict the Moor Church in Winston-Salem, and Good Shepherd Mission has been served by pastors from that parish since that time.
A growing religious education program prompted the need for a small classroom building to be added to the property, and by 1998, the Catholic community in King was comprised of parishioners from Stokes, Forsyth, Surry and Yadkin counties. The increase demanded a larger facility; during the holidays, the mission had to use the local elementary school gymnasium to accommodate everyone for Mass.
A capital campaign to expand the church began in 2000 and construction began in 2002. On April 28, 2003, then-Bishop William G. Curlin presided over the dedication of the expanded Good Shepherd Mission.
Father Heiney has served the mission since September 2004.
Troy Thompson and his nephew Kevin Oliver, 2, were among the hundreds of people who enjoyed the third annual International Festival at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in High Point May 27. The festival featured dances, foods, games and singing groups representing the many diverse cultures in the parish.
Sabbath celebrated, Torah dedicated at Catholic church
courteSy Photo
Father Lawrence heiney, pastor of Good Shepherd Mission in King, celebrates Mass recognizing the silver jubilee of the mission June 10. Concelebrating are Father Eric Kowalski (left), pastor of holy Angels Church in Winston-Salem, and Father Joseph Kelleher, a retired priest.
courteSy Photo by John v. mcGinniS
Photo by kathleen healy SchmieDer
Father Carl Del Giudice, pastor of Sacred heart Church in Brevard, carries the Torah as part of a procession during a Jewish Sabbath ceremony held at the Catholic church May 26.
The Catholic News & Herald 7 July 13, 2007AROUND ThE DIOCESE
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Moms help children in needCHILDREN, from page 1
“I spent the past year praying about what I could do after my kids start school next fall,” said Barsanti, who formerly worked as a social worker in Union County.
“I didn’t necessarily want to go back to work full time, because it wouldn’t allow me to help in my kids’ classrooms,” said the wife and mother of two.
Ladimir, who has a son and is expecting her second child early next year, was also looking for a way to earn money and still have the freedom to spend time with her husband and son.
Barsant i and Ladimir, both parishioners at St. Luke Church in Mint Hill, had worked with children — Barsanti as a social worker, Ladimir as a high school English teacher — and saw firsthand the everyday needs of children living in poverty.
Last winter, Barsanti was shopping for greeting cards and was astonished at the price — as much as $4 each. What she found instead was a new mission.
“I started thinking about all the people who can’t afford to even buy a birthday card, and how much more that $4 can actually buy,” she said.
Barsanti and Ladimir scrapped the
idea for a profitable business and instead developed a program for low-income children. They acquired a business license, and Forget-Me-Not was born.
The Forget-Me-Not program will sponsor children from three Charlotte-area non-profit organizations: A Child’s Place, a local organization that provides education for homeless children; Communities in Schools of Charlotte-Mecklenburg, a national community-based dropout prevention organization; and YWCA’s Youth Development Program.
“These children didn’t choose where they live … they are victims of circumstance,” said Ladimir. “The gifts these children will receive will include messages of hope — encouraging them to do well in school, to stay away from drugs, to commit themselves to violence-free lifestyles.”
Each sponsored child will receive a Forget-Me-Not care package once a month during the school year — 10 packages in all. A package will typically contain basic necessities such as socks, toothbrushes and undergarments, and fun items like books, snacks and small toys.
“There are so many people who want to give back to their communities and be good examples to their children, but just don’t have the time,” Ladimir said. “We provide an outlet for those people — we do all the legwork, and they are able to help the less fortunate by agreeing to be a ‘Partner in Caring.’”
As part of their research, Ladimir and Barsanti visited Communities in Schools, where children had drawn pictures completing the sentence, “If I found a pot of gold ….”
The women were struck by the children’s responses.
“If I asked my child, he’d say, ‘I want to get drums, I want a new scooter,’” Barsanti said.
The students’ responses included “I would spend it on a bed and get me a house,” and “I would buy food. And I will buy me a car.”
Barsanti and Ladimir plan to buy as many items as possible in bulk in order to stretch their money as far as possible.
“We want to be sure to be good stewards of our sponsors’ money,” Barsanti said.
Barsanti and Ladimir hope to be approved as a non-profit business this coming fall, which will allow them to apply for grants to cover overhead costs.
For their first year, Barsanti and Ladimir have set a goal for themselves to sponsor 100 children, for total of 1,000 packages.
Eventually, they would like to sponsor at least 1,000 children each month and expand to serve other groups, such as nursing home residents, cancer patients and children living in group homes.
Contact Staff Writer Karen A. Evans by calling (704) 370-3354 or e-mail [email protected].
WaNt More INFo?f o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t www.sendforgetmenot.com or call (704) 684-0424.
WaNt More INFo?for more information about Css international adoption services, visit www.cssnc.org/adoption.html or call (888) 990-4199.
CHARLOTTE — Catholic Social Services in the Diocese of Charlotte is now one of only eight agencies in the world approved to facilitate the adoption of Russian children.
The Russian Federation made the announcement July 5. Russia, formerly a republic of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, became the Russian Federation following the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991.
The decision regarding Catholic Social Services was the culmination of months of intense scrutiny to ensure that applicant agencies were prepared to conduct adoption services in accordance with new guidelines set by the Russian government.
Licensed as a child-placing agency since 1948, CSS in the Diocese of Charlotte provides professional domestic and international adoption services based on the highest children welfare standards. The CSS program emphasizes support, preparation and education.
The new accreditation from the Russian Federation allows CSS to continue its role as a leading international adoption agency, according to Elizabeth Thurbee, executive director of CSS in the Diocese of Charlotte.
“The mission of our international adoption program is to bring together children in need with loving families who can care for them,” said Thurbee. “We appreciate the permission to continue that service within the Russian Federation.”
Since founding its international adoption program in 1994, CSS has placed more than 600 Russian children in U.S. homes. CSS currently places
between 80 and 100 children each year with families — couples married at least two years — and with single women who have been carefully screened and prepared to welcome their children.
CSS is the only Catholic agency in the United States with a direct placement program in Russia. This means CSS deals directly with Russian authorities in placing children in U.S. homes, usually making the adoption process faster and less expensive than an agency without direct placement capability.
The CSS international adoption program, based in CSS’s Western Region Office in Asheville, places children from several regions in Russia and assists in adopting children from China.
“Catholic social teaching directs our mission to be a part of the solution when there are children in great need,” said Thurbee.
CSS adoption services are offered to any qualified family, regardless of religious affiliation, and CSS works closely with families of moderate means who are qualified to adopt. Adoptions are usually completed 12-18 months following application.
Contributing to this article was Communications Director David Hains.
Bringing families togetherRussian Federation gives adoption accreditation to CSS
courteSy Photo
Marina and Olivia, sisters born and orphaned in Russia, show their smiles. Through Catholic Social Services Western Regional Office in Asheville, a midwestern couple adopted the sisters in 2006.
Photo by karen a. evanS
Amy Barsanti and Cynthia Ladimir look over a sample Forget-Me-Not care package in Ladimir’s home June 29. The Catholic stay-at-home moms developed Forget-Me-Not as a way of providing impoverished children with basic necessities.
8 The Catholic News & Herald July 13, 2007IN ThE NEWS
“It is ... difficult to see how the title of ‘church’ could possibly be attributed to them ... they lack elements considered essential to the Catholic Church.”
— Vatican document
Vatican congregation reaffirms truth, oneness of Catholic Church
Executive Director: Elizabeth Thurbee (704) 370-3227Associate Director: Gerard Carter (704) 370-3250Refugee Office: Cira Ponce (704) 370-6930Family Life: Gerard Carter (704) 370-3228Justice and Peace: Joe Purello (704) 370-3225 OEO/CSS Murphy Satellite Office (828) 835-3535
Charlotte Region: 1123 South Church St., Charlotte, NC 28203Area Director: Geri King (704) 370-6155
Piedmont-Triad: 621 W. Second St., Winston-Salem, NC 27108Area Director: Gerard Carter (Interim) (336) 727-0705 Greensboro Satellite Office (336) 274-5577 Latino Family Center (336) 884-5858
Providing help. Creating hope. Changing lives.Catholic Social Services — The Diocese of Charlotte
For information on specific programs, please call your local office.1123 South Church Street, Charlotte NC 28203
www.cssnc.org
CHURCH, from page 1
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Touching an ecumenical sore point, the document said some of the separated Christian communities, such as Protestant communities, should not properly be called “churches” according to Catholic doctrine because of major differences over the ordained priesthood and the Eucharist.
The Vatican released the text July 10. Titled “Responses to Some Questions Regarding Certain Aspects of the Doctrine on the Church,” it was signed by U.S. Cardinal William J. Levada, prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, and approved by Pope Benedict XVI before publication.
In a cover letter, Cardinal Levada asked the world’s bishops to do all they can to promote and present the document to the wider public.
The text was the latest chapter in a long-simmering discussion on what the Second Vatican Council intended when it stated that the church founded by Christ “subsists in the Catholic Church,” but that elements of “sanctification and truth” are found outside the Catholic Church’s visible confines.
Churches and communitiesThe related discussion over the term
“churches” surfaced publicly in 2000, when the doctrinal congregation — then headed by Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, now Pope Benedict — said the term “sister churches” was being misused in ecumenical dialogue.
In a format of five questions and answers, the new document stated that Vatican II did not change Catholic doctrine on the church. It said use of the phrase “subsists in” was intended to show that all the elements instituted by Christ endure in the Catholic Church.
The sanctifying elements that exist outside the structure of the Catholic Church can be used as instruments of salvation, but their value derives from the “fullness of grace and truth which has been entrusted to the Catholic Church,” it said, quoting from Vatican II’s “Decree on Ecumenism.”
The text said the Second Vatican Council used the term “church” in reference to Orthodox churches because, although separated from the Catholic Church, they have preserved apostolic succession, the ordained priesthood and the Eucharist.
Nevertheless, they “lack something in their condition as particular churches” because they are not in union with the pope, it said.
The Christian communities born out of the Reformation, on the other hand, do not enjoy apostolic succession — the unbroken succession of bishops going back to St. Peter — and therefore “cannot, according to Catholic doctrine, be called ‘churches’ in the proper sense,” it said.
True ecclesial realitiesIn his cover letter, Cardinal Levada
said the document came in response to critical reactions to the teaching of “Dominus Iesus,” another doctrinal congregation document of 2000, which said the Catholic Church was necessary for salvation, and to ongoing confusion over interpretations of the phrase “subsists in.”
An authoritative commentary published July 10 in the Vatican newspaper, L’Osservatore Romano, said the congregation had acted to protect the unity and uniqueness of the church.
The document, the commentary said, took aim at the notion that the “church of Christ” was “the sum total of the churches or the ecclesial communities” or that it exists only as a future goal.
“If this were the case, the church of Christ would not any longer exist in history, or would exist only in some ideal form emerging either through some future convergence or through the reunification of the diverse sister churches,” it said.
What Vatican II intended was to recognize ecclesial elements in non-Catholic communities, it said.
“It does not follow that the identification of the church of Christ with the Catholic Church no longer holds, nor that outside the Catholic Church there is a complete absence of ecclesial elements, a ‘churchless void,’” it said.
The council’s wording does not signify that the Catholic Church has ceased to regard itself as the one true church of Christ but that it recognizes that true ecclesial realities exist beyond its own visible boundaries, it said.
As Christ intendedRegarding the doctrinal congre-
gation’s insistence that communities originating from the Reformation are not churches, the article said:
“Despite the fact that this teaching has created no little distress in the communities concerned and even among some Catholics, it is nevertheless difficult to see how the title of ‘church’ could possibly be attributed to them, given that they do not accept the theological notion of the church in the Catholic sense and that they lack elements considered essential to the Catholic Church.”
The commentary said that, at first glance, Catholic ecumenism might seem somewhat paradoxical, because it holds that the Catholic Church has the “fullness” of the means for salvation, but recognizes the value of elements in other churches.
The Catholic Church’s teaching, it said, is that the fullness of the church “already exists, but still has to grow in the brethren who are not yet in full communion with it and also in its own
members who are sinners.”U.S. Dominican Father Augustine
Di Noia, undersecretary of the doctrinal congregation, said the document does not call into question Pope Benedict’s pledge to work for ecumenical progress.
“The church is not backtracking on its ecumenical commitment. But ... it is fundamental to any kind of dialogue that
the participants are clear about their own identity,” he told Vatican Radio.
Father Di Noia said the document touches on a very important experiential point: that when people go into a Catholic church and participate in Mass, the sacraments and everything else that goes on there, they will find “everything that Christ intended the church to be.”
The Catholic News & Herald 9 July 13, 2007IN ThE NEWS
ordinary pastoral demands of the parish. It offered some guidelines: On Sundays and feast days, parishes may offer only one Tridentine Mass; the old Mass also can be celebrated on weekdays and in particular circumstances such as pilgrimages.
When a group of the lay faithful “does not obtain what it requests from the pastor,” it should inform the local bishop, who is “earnestly requested to grant their desire,” the document said.
If the bishop is unable to provide for this kind of celebration, the matter goes to the Pontifical Commission “Ecclesia Dei,” which is charged with “maintaining vigilance over the observance and application” of the new decree, it said. Religious orders may offer Tridentine Masses in conventual or community celebrations in their own oratories, it said.
Reconciliation effortsThe document said the 1962 missal
can be used for the sacraments of baptism, marriage, penance and the anointing of the sick, if the faithful request it. Bishops may celebrate the sacrament of confirmation according to the old rite, too.
The document also gave bishops the power to erect a “personal parish” for celebrations according to the old liturgy.
The text allowed for Mass readings in local languages, even when the 1962 missal is being used, using a Lectionary, or book of Mass readings, that has been approved by Vatican. In his letter, the pope also suggested that new saints and new prefaces should be inserted in the 1962 missal; that question will be studied by the “Ecclesia Dei” commission.
Priests may use the Roman Breviary of 1962 to pray the Liturgy of the Hours, including morning prayer and evening prayer, the document said.
Unlike the 1984 indult offered by Pope John Paul II, the new decree did not explicitly state that those requesting permission for the Tridentine Mass must accept the legitimacy of the new Mass. Vatican sources said such acceptance would be presumed, however. In his letter, Pope Benedict said the priests who celebrate according to the Tridentine rite cannot, as a matter of principle, exclude celebrating the new Mass.
“The total exclusion of the new rite would not, in fact, be consistent with the recognition of its value and holiness,”
the pope said.The pope’s directive came July
7 in a four-page apostolic letter titled “Summorum Pontificum.” The new norms will take effect Sept. 14, the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross.
An accompanying explanatory letter from the pontiff to the world’s bishops dismissed fears that the decree would foment divisions in the church or be seen as a retreat from Vatican II.
The pope said the new Mass rite undoubtedly would remain the church’s predominant form of worship. Use of the old missal presupposes a certain degree of liturgical formation and some knowledge of the Latin language, and “neither of these is found very often,” he said.
But the pope expressed sympathy with Catholics who are attached to the Tridentine rite and uncomfortable with the new Mass. In the post-Vatican II period, he said, excessive liturgical creativity often led to “deformations of the liturgy which were hard to bear.”
“I am speaking from experience, since I, too, lived through that period with all its hopes and confusion. And I have seen how arbitrary deformations of the liturgy caused deep pain to individuals totally rooted in the faith of the church,” he said.
The pope said it is clear that, in addition to Catholics from that era, young people are also being attracted by the older form of the liturgy.
The new decreeThe Tridentine Mass has been
allowed as a liturgical exception since 1984, but Catholics had to request permission from local bishops, who did not always consent.
The new decree significantly altered the bishop’s role, maintaining his general oversight on liturgy but removing him from initial decisions on Tridentine Masses.
The document said a priest who wishes to celebrate the Tridentine Mass alone “does not require any permission,” and lay Catholics who spontaneously wish to attend such semi-private Masses may do so.
Local pastors are to handle more formal requests for scheduled Masses, the document said. The text does not require all parishes to automatically establish a Tridentine Mass schedule, but it said that where “a group of faithful attached to the previous liturgical tradition exists stably,” the pastor should “willingly accede” to their request to make the old Mass available.
The document stipulates that priests who use the 1962 Roman Missal must be qualified to do so. Some experts believe a lack of priests trained to say the old Mass could present problems, at least initially, in responding to local requests.
In scheduling Tridentine Masses, the document said, local pastors should balance these special requests with the
at a glaNCe: PoPe’s letter, NorMs oN trIdeNtINe Mass— The current roman Missal continues to be the “ordinary” form for celebrations of Mass in the latin-rite church. The 1962 missal is now considered the “extraordi-nary” form of the Mass.— any priest can celebrate Mass in private using the 1962 missal, except for the Mass of the lord’s supper on Holy Thursday, the Good friday commemora-tion of the lord’s Passion and the easter vigil, which always must be celebrated with a congregation.— Catholic laypeople may attend a priest’s private Mass using the 1962 missal.— if a recognized group of Catholic laity asks its parish priest to celebrate Mass according to the 1962 missal, he should do so. The 1962 missal can be used for Mass on any weekday, but no more than one Tridentine Mass should be celebrated in a given parish on sundays.— The 1962 missal can be used for bap-tisms, weddings, funerals and anointing of the sick, if requested.— even when the 1962 missal is being used, the readings can be proclaimed in the local language.— if a parish priest refuses laypeople’s re-quest for the Tridentine Mass, they should go to their bishop for assistance.— bishops may celebrate the sacrament of confirmation using the rite that was in effect in 1962; the rite is found in a book called the “Roman Pontifical.”
Pope relaxes restrictions on Tridentine Mass
cnS Photo by nancy Wiechec
Shown is a page from a 1996 reproduction of the 1962 Roman Missal. Commonly known as the Tridentine Mass, the Mass of this missal is entirely in Latin.
the pope said.That could be an important point
in the Vatican’s ongoing reconciliation efforts with the Society of St. Pius X, founded by the late Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre, who was excommunicated in 1988. The society rejects the new Mass and several important teachings of Vatican II.
In a statement July 7, the head of the Lefebvrite society, Bishop Bernard Fellay, welcomed the pope’s decree and said it had created a “favorable climate” for ongoing dialogue with the Vatican.
But he said doctrinal differences must be settled before there can be reconciliation with the Vatican.
Charity and prudenceThe pope invited bishops to report
on implementation of the new decree
after three years. If serious problems emerge, “ways to remedy them can be sought,” he said.
The decree came after nearly two years of review. Although it was issued “motu proprio,” a phrase that signifies a pope is acting on his own initiative, Pope Benedict consulted on the question with the world’s cardinals and bishops.
The strongest apprehensions were voiced by French and German bishops, who worried that internal church unity — and their own authority — could be weakened by creating parallel worshipping communities.
Other bishops said the move could be seen as delegitimizing the liturgical reform of Vatican II.
The pope, in his explanatory letter, dismissed both fears as “unfounded.” He blamed in part “news reports and judgments made without sufficient information” for confusion over his decision and for divergent reactions ranging from joyful acceptance to harsh opposition.
He emphasized that although the new Mass of 1970 was designed to replace the old liturgy, the 1962 Roman Missal was “never juridically abrogated.” Its restoration as an extraordinary form of worship thus does not undermine the council’s decisions, he said.
“There is no contradiction between the two editions of the Roman Missal. In the history of the liturgy there is growth and progress, but no rupture,” he said. “What earlier generations held as sacred remains sacred and great for us too, and it cannot be all of a sudden entirely forbidden or even considered harmful.”
As for church unity, the pope told the bishops that he had essentially freed them from having to decide on specific requests for the old liturgy, but was relying on them to maintain communion among their faithful.
In particular, he asked the bishops to demonstrate “charity and pastoral prudence” in dealing with and improving the attitude of Catholic traditionalists.
He urged the bishops: “Let us generously open our hearts and make room for everything that the faith itself allows.”
Critical changesIn the Tridentine rite, the priest
celebrated Mass with his back to the congregation. Since the promulgation of the new Roman Missal, the priest normally faces the congregation. And while Latin is the original language of both liturgical texts, the new missal permits use of the vernacular language; because it called for full, active participation, the use of the local language became customary.
The Roman Missal of 1962 raises an issue in Catholic-Jewish relations. Although the phrase “perfidious Jews” was no longer in the 1962 version of the missal, it does contain a Good Friday prayer for the conversion of Jews that asks God to end “the blindness of that people.”
That led Abraham Foxman, U.S. director of the Anti-Defamation League, to call the papal decree a “body blow to Catholic-Jewish relations.” He said it was disappointing and offensive to see such “anti-Jewish language” return to the liturgy after its removal nearly 40 years ago.
The Roman Missal of 1970 changed the wording, asking prayers that Jews, as the chosen people, “may arrive at the fullness of redemption.”
LATIN, from page 1
10 The Catholic News & Herald July 13, 2007
a roundup of scripture, readings, films and moreCulture Watch WORD TO LIFE
SUNDAY SCRIPTURE READINGS: JULY 22, 2007
WEEKLY SCRIPTURE
July 22, Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Cycle C Readings:1) Genesis 18:1-10a Psalm 15:2-52) Colossians 1:24-283) Gospel: Luke 10:38-42
Wise counsel, solutions appear in God’s wisdom
by JEff HENsLEyCATHOLIC NEws sERVICE
Jesuit Father Hubert Schiffer was a retreat master at Montserrat Jesuit Retreat House on the eastern edge of the Diocese of Fort Worth. He liked to tell a sort of shaggy-dog-style story about counsel given a man riding a donkey.
After many doses of advice, all of it thought wise by those who should have tended their own business, the man ends up carrying the donkey.
Father Schiffer would tell the story when others gave him unsought advice. As a man who had survived the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945, rescuing orphaned Japanese children and caring for them after picking innumerable shards of glass from his own flesh, he was a man to be listened to.
He had suffered for Jesus and gone on to perform valorous deeds.
If someone were to use today’s
Scriptures to give specific advice about specific problems, he just might end up making a man carry a donkey. The passages seem to conflict.
Then too a person would surely scratch her head reading about Paul offering the sufferings of his own body “for the lack in the sufferings of Christ” on behalf of the church, and then reading about Jesus saying to Martha that Mary has chosen the better part in sitting and soaking up his teachings rather than serving him as their guest.
Combine these two with the Genesis reading in which Abraham is to be rewarded for his extraordinary service to the three strangers in the desert and the confusion is compounded. It is impossible to give straightforward advice based on these readings — that is, unless the advice is to listen to God in each situation while holding fast to godly principles and governing one’s behavior honorably.
Following that piece of advice would put you in the category of the just, which is described in the psalm.
The previous verse to this day’s reading asks: “Who will be able to dwell on God’s holy mountain?”
The reply begins with verse two: “He who walks blamelessly and does justice and thinks the truth in his heart ... and harms not his fellow man.”
The Bible isn’t a cookbook out of which we can draw perfect, specific solutions to every problem, but it does point us to wisdom and to ways to seek God’s solutions to how to act in all situations.
sCrIPture For the WeeK oF JulY 15-21sunday (Fifteenth sunday in ordinary time), deuteronomy 30:10-14, Colossians 1:15-20, luke 10:25-37; Monday (our lady of Mt. Carmel), exodus 1:8-14,22, Matthew 10:34-11:1; tuesday, exodus 2:1-15, Matthew 11:20-24; Wednesday (st. Camillus de lellis), exodus 3:1-6, 9-12, Matthew 11:25-27; thursday, exodus 3:13-20, Matthew 11:28-30; Friday, exodus 11:10-13:14, Matthew 12:1-8; saturday (st. lawrence of Brindisi), exodus 12:37-42, Matthew 12:14-21.
sCrIPture For the WeeK oF JulY 22-28sunday (sixteenth sunday in ordinary time), Genesis 18:1-10, Colossians 1:24-28, luke 10:38-42; Monday (st. Bridget of sweden), exodus 14:5-18, exodus 15:1-6, Matthew 12:38-42; tuesday, exodus 14:21--15:1, exodus 15:8-10, 12, 17, Matthew 12:46-50; Wednesday (st. James), 2 Corinthians 4:7-15, Matthew 20:20-28; thursday (sts. Joachim and anne), exodus 19:1-2, 9-11, 16-20, daniel 3:52-56, Matthew 13:10-17; Friday, exodus 20:1-17, Matthew 13:18-23; saturday, exodus 24:3-8 Matthew 13:24-30.
WASHINGTON (CNS) — St. Augustine of Hippo just got a whole lot hipper. The fifth-century doctor of the church, perhaps known best for “Confessions,” an autobiographical account of his conversion to Christianity, now has a MySpace page.
Michael Dolan, d i rec tor of communications for the Augustinians of the Province of St. Thomas of Villanova, started the page on St. Augustine’s behalf as an engaging way to introduce visitors to St. Augustine and the Augustinians.
“The focus of the page is to give people a deeper sense of who Augustine was, but also to get them engaged in Augustinian spirituality,” Dolan said.
The popular social networking Web site myspace.com allows users to post pictures and information about themselves on their personal pages. All users — and now St. Augustine — can add other users to their list of friends.
As of July 9, St. Augustine had 347 MySpace friends, including two named Pope Benedict XVI; two fellow saints, Sts. George and Brigid; some guy named Josh; and Canadian singer Celine Dion.
Since the site launched in early May, Dolan said the page has had more than 500 hits. Most of St. Augustine’s friends requested his friendship. Users can either request friendship from a user or accept a friendship. Dolan said he doesn’t know the true identity of the saint’s online friends and guessed they just happened upon the page or heard about it from another venue.
St. Augustine’s page features a picture of the saint and a welcoming message to visitors. If the volume is turned up on the computer, St. Augustine’s page will play The Who’s hit “Who are You.”
St. Augustine is, according to his page, 42 years old, single, a Scorpio and looking for networking and friends. His interests include praying, writing and hanging out with friends.
St. Augustine is 42, Dolan said, because that was his age when he wrote “Confessions.” Starting Aug. 28 — the saint’s feast day — St. Augustine will begin a Web log, or blog, about his “Confessions” on the site. His entire book should be blogged over the course of the next school year.
Dolan hopes visitors to the site will include students and professors. He suggested they could post comments to the blog as part of classroom exercises.
To the best of his knowledge, Dolan said, none of the Augustinians he knows have MySpace pages. But the order seems to have embraced St. Augustine’s page, he said.
Has St. Augustine rejected any friend requests?
A few, Dolan admitted, because the users appeared either inappropriate or fraudulent. But Dolan said the occasional strange friend request seems normal for MySpace.
As for St. Augustine’s future on MySpace, Dolan said he has no concrete plans about adding features beside “Confessions.”
But he said more photos, links and videos will probably be added to provide additional information about Augustine and the Augustinians to MySpace surfers.
WaNt More INFo?st. augustine’s Myspace profile can be viewed at www.myspace.com/saintaugustineofhippo.
St. Augustine joins the ranks of MySpace users
Join us on a Pilgrimage to
CLASSIC ITALY
October 30 – November 9, 2007
(This is a privately sponsored trip, not affiliated with the Diocese of Charlotte.)
Special highlights include Mass daily plus escorted visits to Padua, Venice, Bologna, Florence, Sienna, Assisi and a Papal Audience in Rome! Price including air fare and airport taxes from Charlotte, hotels, most meals, admission fees: $3,072. Space is limited! Call today: 206 Tours at 800-206-8687 or group coordinator Nick Grasberger at [email protected].
$3,199 includes ALL air fare, hotels, tours, tips, taxes and most meals. ($3,299 after March 3rd)
Join us on a Pilgrimage toCLASSIC ITALY
with Father Roger Arnsparger, pastor of St. Michael Church, Gastonia, and Rev. Mr. Art Kingsley, deacon at St. Barnabas, Arden
October 30 – November 9, 2007
Special highlights include Mass daily plus escorted visits to Padua, Venice, Bologna, Florence, Sienna, Assisi and a Papal Audience in Rome!
Price including air fare and airport taxes from Charlotte, hotels, most meals, admission fees: $3,072.
Space is limited! Call today: 206 Tours at 800-206-8687 or group coordinator Nick Grasberger at [email protected].
(SMALL COPY AT BOTTOM)
(This is a privately sponsored trip, not affiliated with the Diocese of Charlotte.)
with Father Roger Arnsparger, pastor of St. Michael Church, Gastonia and
Rev. Mr. Art Kingsley, deacon at St. Barnabas, Arden
The Catholic News & Herald 11 July 13, 2007
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‘Order’ commands attention
cnS Photo by Warner broS.
Gary Oldman and Daniel Radcliffe star in “harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.” Teenage wizard harry (Radcliffe) and his intrepid hogwarts chums face an unexpected obstacle in their ongoing struggle with the malevolent Lord Voldemort: a repressive teacher from the Ministry of Magic who won’t allow the practice of hocus-pocus that they need to defend themselves against the evil forces.This fifth installment is arguably the best yet with its excellent performances, superior special effects, coherent narrative and sensible balance between action sequences and human drama, not to mention a meaningful subtext about the power of love and personal choice in doing good versus evil.Some scenes of peril, moderate fantasy violence and scary imagery may preclude very young viewers.The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II — adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 — parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.
maryimmaculata.com
Cornelius Store Closing Sale – now until July 31st. Visit us soon at Johnsbury Square, next to the Goodwill, for
the best bargains on remaining books and gifts!
IMMACULATA CATHOLIC COMPANIESNEW STORE GRAND OPENING
Tuesday, Sept. 4 at the Diocesan Pastoral Center
1123 South Church Street, Charlotte (1 block south of Morehead Street)
704-655-9090
Ad – immaculata
Use regular format
1st Holy Communion Celebrations Coming Soon!
We’re ready to help with gifts and holy reminders for your loved ones as we celebrate with you their continued growth in our faith.
Come visit our Cornelius store or one of our scheduled parish visits: St. Mark, Huntersville - Monday, March 26 -- 4-7pm
St. Phillip Neri, Statesville – Sat. & Sun., April 21-22 after Masses SPECIAL PARISH VISITS: If you’d like to arrange a parish visit, ask your pastor to call me, manager
Allen Bond, and we’ll make every e�ort to meet his schedule. May God Bless you all as we approach Easter.
(In space where Monroe Road address was – take it out and put:
NEW CHARLOTTE STORE LOCATION to be announced very soon! Watch this space as we unveil our new location.
1st Holy Communion Celebrations Coming Soon!
Ad – immaculata
2 x 3
NEW STORE GRAND OPENINGTuesday, Sept. 4 at the Diocesan Pastoral Center
1123 South Church Street, Charlotte (1 block south of Morehead Street)
704-655-9090
Come and see all the new and exciting religious books, gifts and surprises awaiting you at our new, convenient location!
(in bottom space across whole ad, put copy below)
Cornelius Store Closing Sale – now until July 31st. Visit us soon at Johnsbury
Square, next to the Goodwill, for the best bargains on remaining books and gifts!
Come and see all the new and exciting religious books, gifts and surprises awaiting you at our new, convenient location!
12 The Catholic News & Herald July 13, 2007AROUND ThE DIOCESE
Classified ads bring results! Over 140,000 readers! Over 52,000 homes! rates: $.80/word per issue ($16 minimum per issue)
deadline: 12 noon Wednesday, 9 days before publication how to order: ads may be e-mailed to [email protected],
faxed to (704) 370-3382 or mailed to: Cindi feerick, The Catholic News & Herald, 1123 s. Church st., Charlotte, NC 28203.
Payment: for information, call (704) 370-3332.
eMPloYMeNtPROFESSIONAL SECURITY OFFICERS: Requirements: High school diploma/GED; Clean criminal record; Noteworthy employment history. Excellent pay and benefit package. Apply to: The Wackenhut Corporation, 1 Centerview Drive, Suite 105, Greensboro, NC 27407, 1701 Link Road,
Winston-Salem, NC 27103 or in Asheville area at 9-H Walden Drive, Arden, NC 28704.www.wackenhut.com EOE M/F/D/V Security Guard & Patrol 753-GP
For reNtCONDO: Oceanfront – Pleasure Island. 2 BD/2BA. Minutes from Wilmington. Two day minimum; weekly for under $1,000. Additional units available. Call 703-450-8480 or write [email protected] for availability.
Classifieds
Vibrant 800-family parish seeking mature, qualified adult to head middle school and high school programs. This full-time position includes catechetical, social, service and spiritual well-being of youth in grades 6 - 12. Requirements: practicing Catholic, college degree, experience working with youth and teens, and references. Salary is negotiable depending on factors such as years of experience.
Send resume to Search Committee, St. William Parish, 2300 Frederica Road, St. Simons Island, GA 31522, or [email protected].
Full-time Youth Minister
Ad – development
2 x 4
Diocese of CharlotteFull-time Director of Major Gifts
Candidate must be a college graduate with a degree in marketing, communications, business administration or related field; five years experience in fund development and major gifts. Applicants should have strong interpersonal and communication skills, and the ability to interact well with diverse groups. Responsibilities include developing strategies, events, and materials to inform, engage, cultivate and solicit current and prospective major gifts prospects.
Please submit resume to Jim Kelley, Office of Development, 1123 South Church Street, Charlotte, NC 28203 by July 30, 2007. Questions to 704-370-3301 or email at
Candidate must be a college graduate with a degree in marketing, communications, business administration or related field; five years experience in fund development and major gifts. Applicants should have strong interpersonal and communication skills, and the ability to interact well with diverse groups. Responsibilities include developing strategies, events, and materials to inform, engage, cultivate and solicit current and prospective major gifts prospects. Please submit resume to Jim Kelley, Office of Development, 1123 South Church Street, Charlotte, NC 28203 by July 30, 2007. Questions to 704-370-3301 or email at [email protected]
DIOCESE OF CHARLOTTE
Full-time Director of Major Gifts
Ad – st pius X school
Dis clas –
2 x 2
ART TEACHER / SPANISH TEACHER
Saint Pius X Catholic School has full-time (K-8) teaching positions available in Art and Spanish for the 2007-08 school year. Must have or be eligible for NC Certification in Art Education/Spanish Education. Please submit a resume and pick up an application at the school office from 9am-1pm, M-F: St. Pius X Catholic School, 2200 N. Elm St., Greensboro, NC. Phone: (336) 273-9865. St. Pius X Catholic School has full-time (K-8) teaching positions available
in Art and Spanish for the 2007-08 school year. Must have or be eligible for NC Certification in Art Education/Spanish Education. Please submit a resume and pick up an application at the school office from 9am-1pm, M-F: St. Pius X Catholic School, 2200 N. Elm St., Greensboro, NC. Phone: (336) 273-9865.
ART TEACHER / SPANISH TEACHER
DIOCESAN TRIBUNAL: Notary/Secretary – Pastoral Center, Charlotte
The Diocese of Charlotte Tribunal has an opening for a Notary/Secretary who will provide secretarial, clerical, and administrative support to the officials of the Tribunal. As an officer of the Court, the employee must be a practicing Catholic. Requirements include: high school or business college graduate; three years of experience; ability to type 55 WPM accurately; ability to read, write, and speak English well; some ability with Spanish beneficial; strong verbal, computer, and interpersonal skills; ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
DIOCESAN TRIBUNAL: Advocate/Auditor – Pastoral Center, Charlotte
The Diocese of Charlotte Tribunal has an opening for an Advocate/Auditor whose duties will include supervising parish advocates, coordinating Advocate Training Program, serving as Advocate for Tribunal cases, investigating possible satellite Tribunal locations and providing Tribunal ministry to Asheville and Smoky Mountain Vicariates as needed. As an officer of the Court, the employee must be a practicing Catholic. Requirements include: bachelor’s degree in theology with willingness to pursue further studies in canon law; completion of Advocate Training Program; 1-2 years of experience in Tribunal ministry; ability to read, write, and speak English well; ability to read, write and speak Spanish is beneficial; strong verbal, computer and interpersonal skills; willingness to travel as required.
Interested applicants please contact: Fr. John Putnam, Tribunal, 1123 S. Church Street, Charlotte, NC 28203
or (704) 370-3341
DIRECTOR OF MUSIC AND LITURGY
BELMONT — Mercy Sister Margaret Mary Higgins died June 18, 2007, at Marian Center at Sacred Heart Convent in Belmont. She was 102.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held June 20 at the Cardinal Gibbons Memorial Chapel, with burial following at Belmont Abbey Cemetery.
She was received into the Sisters of Mercy on Jan. 31, 1926, and was in her 81st year as a Sister of Mercy when she died.
Sister Higgins was born May 29, 1905, in Westport, County Mayo, Ireland. She earned a degree from Mercy Hospital School of Nursing in 1932 and began a lengthy ministerial career in health care as a registered nurse. Her first assignment was as a supervisor at Mercy Hospital in Charlotte.
Over the years she served at St.
Joseph’s Sanitarium (later St. Joseph’s Hospital) in Asheville and at Mercy Hospital. She also held membership in the North Carolina State Nurses Association.
Sister Higgins also served as superior of St. Joseph’s Convent from 1968-69 and again from 1972-76. She retired from nursing in 1977.
Until October 2000, Sister Higgins
Mercy Sister Higgins, 1905-2007
Mercy Sister Margaret Mary higgins
remained an active presence at St. Joseph’s Hospital, where she assisted as needed. She maintained an active prayer ministry up until her death and especially enjoyed painting.
She was profiled by the media shortly before her 102nd birthday, when
her artwork was featured in “Freedom of Expression: Art in America.”
MeMorIalsMemorials may be made to the sisters of Mercy, sacred Heart Convent, 100 Mercy drive, belmont, NC 28012- 4805.
Lifetime of devotion, service mark Sister Higgins’ life
HOLY ANGELSCHERUBS CANDY BOUQUET MGR / JOB COACH: 1st shift, full-time, includes every other Saturday. Voc program for adults w/MR. Manage inventory, staff supervision, customer service, candy bouquet production. Req: valid DL, 4-year degree in business admin., special ed. or human services. Prefer retail, supervisory, arts/crafts, MR experience.
CHERUBS JOB COACH Serve as a job coach for adults with mental retardation in a full service restaurant/cafe & candy bouquet shop. FT, including every Saturday. Req: valid DL. Prefer restaurant/retail experience. Apply at Holy Angels: 6600 Wilkinson Blvd., Belmont, NC; [email protected]; 704-825-4161 or Fax: 704-825-0553. Resumes accepted.
CHERUBS CANDY BOUQUET MGR / JOB COACH 1st shift, full-time, includes every other Saturday. Voc program for adults w/MR. Manage inventory, staff supervision, customer service, candy bouquet production. Req: valid DL, 4-year degree in business admin., special ed. or human services. Prefer retail, supervisory, arts/crafts, MR experience.
CHERUBS JOB COACHServe as a job coach for adults with mental retardation in a full service restaurant/cafe & candy bouquet shop. FT, including every Saturday. Req: valid DL. Prefer restaurant/retail experience. Apply at Holy Angels: 6600 Wilkinson Blvd., Belmont, NC; [email protected]; 704-825-4161 or Fax: 704-825-0553. Resumes accepted.
The Catholic News & Herald 13 July 13, 2007ADVERTISEMENT
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14 The Catholic News & Herald July 13, 2007
Perspectives a collection of columns, editorials and viewpoints
Every life — long or short, poor or powerless — matters to God
It was a beastly hot day. We clustered under the shade of a tree in our parish cemetery. We were there for the burial of a baby.
It was a very young baby, stillborn at only three months gestation. So small, it was hardly the length of an index finger.
At that tender age it was hard to tell if the baby was male or female. The parents named the child Jose-Maria (Joseph-Mary) since they weren’t sure of the gender.
The parents are good people. They are hardworking immigrants from central Mexico. They support a lot of family back home. The father does landscaping; the mother works in a restaurant.
A little group from our local Latino community was at the burial with them. The parents sat on folding chairs set up by the Catholic Cemeteries office near the grave. They held hands.
The week before, I had asked the mother if she had a box to bury little Jose-Maria in. She told me yes, a plastic box. They carried the box to the grave in a fancy paper gift bag with colored tissue paper sticking out. I had not seen it before.
I lifted the box out of the bag to place it on a table near the grave. I saw that it was a plastic “Huggies” diaper box.
Tears came down my face. My throat closed up. I was overcome by the sadness of it all.
These were poor people. This was the best they could do. I thought of Mary and Joseph, also poor people.
How Joseph and Mary brought Jesus to the temple for his presentation with the offering of the poor, two pigeons. I thought of how Mary had to depend on the kindness of a stranger to bury her son Jesus in a donated tomb.
What a lesson this simple couple was teaching our community. Neither parent had gone beyond the sixth grade back in Mexico, yet they knew better than our “sophisticated” culture the true meaning of this moment and of this young life.
They knew that Jose-Maria was a baby. It was their baby.
They did not care that scientists might call this baby by another name: blastocyst, embryo or fetus. They knew that it was a baby.
When she had miscarried at the hospital, the hospital staff told her that they would dispose of the “tissue” if she wanted them to.
She said, “No, give it to me.” She took him home in a baggie packed in ice. Our culture might have thrown this tiny child away, like just so much trash.
So there we were on a hot summer day, commending this tiny body to the earth and this young soul to God.
I stumbled through the prayers in my bad Spanish. They were understanding of my errors. We are old friends. Friends make allowances.
A few cars passed. I thought to myself, “This is an important lesson,” especially for the children in our group.
This burial reminded us that every life matters. Every life, no matter how short, how poor or how powerless matters to God. Every person can be a prophet of the Most High.
Somebody will be saved by the short life of young Jose-Maria; I am sure of it. In God’s eyes, that life, no matter how short, will have been a huge success.
Jose-Maria may have been laid in the earth in a plastic diaper box but went to God on the wings of angels, assisted by the prayers of the parents and the church.
This life mattered.
WrIte a letter to the edItor
The Catholic News & Herald welcomes letters from readers. We ask that letters be originals of 250 words or fewer, pertain to recent newspaper content or Catholic issues, and be in good taste.To be considered for publication, each letter must include the name, address and daytime phone number of the writer for purpose of verification. Letters may be condensed due to space limitations and edited for clarity, style and factual accuracy.The Catholic News & Herald does not publish poetry, form letter or petitions. items submitted to The Catholic News & Herald become the property of the newspaper and are subject to reuse, in whole or in part, in print, electronic formats and archives.send letters to letters to the editor, The Catholic News & Herald, P.o. box 37267, Charlotte, N.C. 28237, or e-mail [email protected].
Gratitude for nonviolence program
There are some fears that are harmless, amounting to nothing more than the normal worries of life. They can keep you alert and help you meet your responsibilities.
But there are those exaggerated fears that can become obsessive. They must be controlled if you are going to have peace of mind.
The first thing to keep in mind is that you are not your fears. You are the observer of your fears. The mind only has room for one set of thoughts at a time.
The best psychologists tell us that we can lessen the impact of emotional distress by thinking things through. Control your thoughts and you will gradually lessen your inner disturbance.
Fear is a belief that you are somehow in danger. Mental health professionals tell us that most of the things we worry about never happen.
Most of the time the feeling of danger is not a fact; it is merely the product of a belief.
We spend so much wasted time worrying! If there is no objective danger, change your belief system and you will be free.
A few years ago I wrote about one woman’s approach to needless worry. She happened to be a dentist.
She reasoned, “Just as I use antiseptics to get rid of the bacteria around the teeth, I must also learn to use mental toughness to chase away the dark thoughts that plague me.”
Here is her plan of action:“As a dentist, I try to train my
patients to focus on prevention. It’s not that far-fetched to connect the idea of oral hygiene to mental hygiene. Most days I just don’t realize how much control I have over my feelings.
“Thoughts control feelings. I can actually decide if I want joyful thoughts or dark thoughts to take over my mind. Dark thoughts always lead to sadness
or fright, and I don’t want that. Jesus doesn’t want it either.
“So I decided to keep better guard over my thoughts. I never realized how many negative thoughts I allowed into my mind. Through the exercise of my will I now work harder at keeping out irrational fear. With God’s help, I try to maintain a beautiful garden of joy in my mental landscape.
“We all come from a joyful God who created us for eternal joy; therefore, it follows that he wants us to eliminate anything that destroys or diminishes our joy.
“In the same way that we protect our bodies against germs, we can also work to protect our souls against mental poison. Sadness and discouragement are the fruits of negative thinking.
“Go for help to straighten out your thinking patterns if you need it. By exercising the proper JOY HYGIENE, as I call it, you can kill fear and self-pity before it festers.”
That is such good advice. If you have developed the bad habit of allowing toxic thinking to dominate your mind, at least know that you can do something to help yourself.
First, turn to the Lord. Jesus said, “In this world you will have many troubles, but cheer up, for I have overcome the world. ... Do not be afraid.”
Turn it all over to Jesus, who said, “I have told you all these things that your joy may be full.”
Letters to the Editor
Parish DiaryfATHER PETER
DALyCNs COLuMNIsT
I am very thankful to find out that there is an active program to support a desperately needed movement to counteract the alarming growth of violence
in America today (“Resisting evil,” June 29).
I find it almost impossible to sit and watch television, especially the evening news, because of the steady diet of violence and horror to which millions of innocent living beings are being subjected every moment of every day. Ditto for secular newspapers and news magazines as well.
At the age of 79 I can look back
Spirituality for TodayfATHER JOHN
CATOIRCNs COLuMNIsT
Do not be afraid‘Joy hygiene’ can kill fear, self-pity before they fester
A baby whose life mattered
over the years to a truly more gentle time before the “drug culture” and the breakdown of ethics and morals that followed. How wonderful to read of the program (“The Nonviolence of Jesus: Living the Gospel Today”) at Living Waters Reflection Center in Maggie Valley.
Because of age and physical limitations, I am not able to attend wonderful programs such as this one, but I can at least support all positive efforts like this with my prayers that all Christians, regardless of denomination, will work to try, once again, to make our world the beautiful, peaceful and Christ-centered world that he intended it to be.
— Doris SpiveyBelmont
The Catholic News & Herald 15 July 13, 2007
‘Happy anniversary’ time Benedictine monasteries: Models of redeemed creation
Pope Benedict XVI suggests in his latest book “Jesus of Nazareth” that we see the beauty of Benedictine monasteries as a model of redeemed creation. What does he mean by this?
As a young priest, Pope Benedict was deeply influenced by the Benedictines. Because of his contact with them, he was far ahead of the Second Vatican Council in developing meaningful liturgical practices.
One of the most revered traditions of the Benedictines is their liturgy. Anyone who has experienced Benedictine liturgy’s melodious chant cannot help but agree that it points to the wonderment of God, beautifully lifting minds and hearts to heavenly thoughts. Even the liturgy’s sacred quietness encourages us to turn from outside distractions and listen to God’s voice within ourselves.
Noted liturgist Father Romano Guardini says the Benedictine liturgy fosters the stillness the world desperately needs: “Tranquility of the inner life, the quiet at the depths of its hidden streams. It is a collected, total presence, a being ‘all there,’ receptive, alert, ready. ... It is when the soul abandons the restlessness of purposeful activity.”
The tranquility of which Father Guardini speaks is the foundation of peace, and peace, according to St. Thomas Aquinas, is one of the main qualities of love. Peace is also the foundation of a redeemed world.
The Benedictine tradition emphasizes meditation and prayer. Two words in particular help us to understand their meaning: ruminating and pondering.
The image of the ruminant animal quietly chewing its cud was used in antiquity as a symbol of the Christian pondering the word of God. And Christians have always seen a scriptural invitation to ponder in the example of the Virgin Mary “pondering in her heart” what she saw and heard of Christ.
For us, these images are a reminder that we must take in the word of God and while gently repeating it to ourselves, allow it to interact with our thoughts, our hopes, our memories, our desires.
In pointing to Benedictine monasteries as models of redeemed life, Pope Benedict implies that much of today’s life reflects the opposite of redemption: brutality, slander, corruption and chaos. Their continual barrage destroys peace of mind, often shattering the human spirit’s ability to reflect on what is sacred.
The pope points us to one of the most valuable means we have for living Christ’s redemption on earth: peaceful environments for prayer and meditation. The end result of these is the heavenly wisdom needed to combat the forces of chaos that are antithetical to redemption.
Reflecting a way to unlock elements to making marriages work
OurTurn
THEREsE J. bORCHARDCNs COLuMNIsT
The Human SidefATHER EuGENE
HEMRICKCNs COLuMNIsT
any anniversary of an intact marriage is celebrated!
Anniversaries unlock the sorrows together with the joys and, as most anniversary celebrants will smilingly admit, the joys redeem the sorrows every time.
That’s the way it has been for Martie and Bob Gillin, friends of mine since high school days. I was in the seminary when they were married, but I’ve officiated at the weddings of five of their children and assisted at the funeral of one son.
Martie and Bob heard a priest say to them in the opening “exhortation” in their own wedding ceremony in 1957 that their future “with its hopes and disappointments, its successes and its failures, its pleasures and its pains, its joys and its sorrows, is hidden from your eyes. You know that these elements are mingled in every life, and are to be expected in your own.”
All those elements have been part of the Gillin family experience.
So with Martie and Bob in mind as they celebrate their 50thh this year, I repeat words from a song that I incorporated into the homily I gave at the wedding of their son Steve and his bride Leslie in 1999.
The words are from the song “Voyage,” by Johnny Duhan:
If “love is what you’ve been through with someone,” wedding anniversaries have a way of tempering idealism with the realism (the day-to-day, year-in-and-year-out, practical, down-to-earth, “being through”) of marriage.
“Would you do it all over again?” is a question not for the faint of heart; it could ruin the anniversary celebration! Very few, if any, couples I know would have anything but a strong, affirmative answer to that question.
They’ve been blessed, and they are grateful. And so they celebrate when anniversary time rolls around.
The famous jurist Benjamin N. Cardozo, when officiating at a wedding in 1931, said: “Three great mysteries there are in the lives of mortal beings: the mystery of birth at the beginning; the mystery of death at the end; and, greater than either, the mystery of love. Everything that is most precious in life is a form of love.”
Thinking back on love and marriage from an anniversary perspective can indeed produce inspiring words. But anniversary time also opens the reflective mind to the real struggles any marriage project entails.
Marriage takes a lot of work. How satisfying, therefore, to look back with gratitude at the whole project when
“Life is an ocean/ and love is a boat /In troubled waters,/ it keeps you afloat./When we started the voyage,/ there was just me and you./ Gathered around us,/we now have a crew.”
The “crew” of family gives us the security and support we need on our transit through life. What a joy it is to have the crew gather round for those anniversary celebrations that come in the evening of life when the voyage is closer to the end than to the beginning, and, thanks be to God, the marriage is still afloat!
The crew members — the children and grandchildren — get both example and instruction from parents who agree to renew their vows in their presence at the anniversary celebration. That’s an opportunity not to be missed.
The “for better or worse, richer or poorer, in sickness and health” dimensions of the marriage commitment with its “until death do us part” declaration constitute powerful prose that holds the promise of additional anniversary joy for generations to come.
working very hard for cash.They will tip waiters two or three
times the average amount (50-to-60 percent) to reward their work. Another woman said that she walks around giving away coupons from McDonalds or Whole Foods.
The bigger problem for me in all this is that I find the line between enabling/codependency and generosity/compassion to be very thin and tenuous.
A few summers ago I met a woman at a bookstore who needed extra cash, so I hired her daughter to be a mother’s helper. (My son David was just a baby.) But it ended up a raw deal for me.
I got to baby sit the clerk’s daughter. She was unable to assist with any caretaking of David, and I paid the clerk five bucks an hour to take care of her daughter.
If this were an isolated event, I could chock it up as a bad experience. But I consistently get myself into these messes in an attempt to be compassionate, to be the Good Samaritan in Luke’s Gospel. When two guys knock on my door trying to sell me a subscription of Parenting magazine for three times the cost of the
Here’s a dilemma not just for young adults but for any Christian passing a homeless man on the street: What’s the right thing to do?
If he reeks of alcohol and stares at you cross-eyed, do you still give him a buck? Or is than enabling his addiction?
I threw out that question to my readers of Beyond Blue (my blog on Beliefnet.com) and I discussed it on the Catholic Channel of Sirius radio, inviting people to call in with their opinions.
Some listeners said that it is not our right to judge a person’s intentions. We give out of generosity and kindness and, if those we give to buy drugs or alcohol our gift, it’s on their conscience. It’s between them and God. We have done the right thing.
Others said that, after being taken advantage of numerous times, they have decided to give only to organizations — non-profits known to be good stewards of donations.
But there was a third group that came up with creative solutions to the problem. One man said he and his wife tithe five percent to their church. They then tithe another five percent to persons who are
cover price, I have difficulty saying no.They look at me with droopy, puppy-
dog eyes while telling me that they aspire to have the good life that I have.
“It’s a scam,” my husband Eric says, telling the solicitors to get lost with absolutely no guilt. But Eric wasn’t raised by the Sisters of Charity; he’s not afraid of being the self-absorbed Levite in the parable of the Good Samaritan.
I, on the other hand, have a bit of baggage in this area.
I used to be able to give generously, asking nothing in return. But then I built some boundaries. Today I give when it feels good and right.
If a woman who is high as a kite begs me for three bucks because she has just had a bad accident and my gut says that she is being less than contrite, I spend the money on coffee instead.
Although I want to be the Good Samaritan as often as possible, I also want to be sincere — and sincerity and enabling/codependency don’t mix well.
Looking AroundJEsuIT fATHER
wILLIAM J. byRON
CNs COLuMNIsT
Thin, tenuous line exists between generosity and enabling
