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Dec 4, 1998

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atholic NEWS HERALD

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December Volume

4,

&

1998

Number 14

8

Serving Catholics

Western North Carolina

in

in

the Diocese of Charlotte

Protesting Give children

the

the School of

gift of

books

the Americas

for

Christmas Diocesan parishioners, ...Page

13

join

thousands

FORT BENNING,

Year indulgences

must not continue ...Page

3

—

to support an insti-

tution which trains foreign officers to torture,

maim and

own

repress their

people," said Sister Linda Scheckelhofif,

Pope says 1999 should

Franciscan who ministers in Yadkin ville. She is one of more than 7,000 a

begin pilgrimage of sharing ...Page

7

Local News

people who protested the continued operation of the U.S. Army School of the Americas at Fort Benning Nov. 22. The nonviolent protest, at the main gate of the base, concluded a twoday vigil of about 7,000 participants including several hundred from North Carolina honoring victims reportedly kidnapped, tortured and murdered by some of SOA's graduates, who are Latin American soldiers. More than 2,300 of the protesters risked arrest by military police Nov. 22 when they "crossed the line" and entered the military compound.

—

—

Charlotte priest lives

of love

16

...Page

"Fire in the

at gathering

From Staff and Wire Reports Ga. "We, the citizens of the U.S., cannot and

Guidelines for Holy

life

religious

Mountains '98"

held at Lake Junaluska

Those

risking arrest formed a

protesters say were victims of

...Page

3

me-

morial funeral procession, led by actor Martin Sheen. They carried cofTms and small white crosses bearing the names of Latin Americans who the

SOA

graduates.

Before leading the solemn procesSheen said the SOA "is an embarrassment to our Army." A voice on a loudspeaker system read out a roll-call litany of victims'

Photo by Joann Keane

sion.

Every Week

names, to which the protesters reEditorials

& Columns

sponded, "Presente." ...Pages

4-5

Entertainment Pages 10-11

The SOA, nicknamed the "School of Assassins" by its critics, has trained over 60,000 Latin American soldiers. Graduates of the school have been implicated in abuse and atrocities cited in human rights reports in Central and South America.

The feast of Our Lady's Immaculate Conception, a holy day of obligation, is

celebrated Dec. 8.

Sister Linda Scheckelhoff and Franciscan Sister Andrea Inkrott, who staff the Catholic Hispanic Center in

Yadkinville, worked in Chiapas, Mexico, in the 1970s and '80s. They say the Mexican state is currently occupied by tens of thousands of Mexican troops, many of whom are commanded by SOA graduates. The vigil was organized by SOA

Vietnamese culture center dedication Binh Bui presents flowers at the altar during the dedication ceremony of St. Joseph, the newly established Vietnamese culture center in Charlotte. Bui's costume represents traditional Vietnamese culture; the lace outer layer is used for very special occasions. See story pages 8-9. Watch, founded by Maryknoll Father Roy Bourgeois, decorated Vietnam veteran, missionary and outspoken of U.S. foreign policy in Latin America. All together the priest has spent about four years in federal prison for his civil disobedience protests. Father Bourgeois helped lead the critic

Army officials had told the demonstrators that they could be arrested

and sent to prison for trespassing on the post. But military police placed the protesters onto buses and dropped them off about a mile away from the front gate.

The marchers

received letters bar-

marchers onto the base, and was fully prepared to serve jail time for "cross-

ring them from Fort Benning until midnight that day. In a press confer-

ing the

ence, Maj. Gen. Carl F. Ernst said

line."

Minutes

earlier.

Father Bourgeois

"We are here to honor the brothand sisters in Latin America who have been silenced and, yes, to close said:

ers

the School of the Americas."

one's

no names were taken and no one

would be

arrested.

Ernst,

See

who

said the institution

school-protest,

page

is

14


The Catholic News & Herald

2

Pope

!he World

December

Brief

in

smuggling of immigrants into Italy

criticizes

illegal

VATICAN CITY John Paul

(CNS)

1998

Churches said

in an open letter to Robinson, U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights. Canada "can't legitimately promote human

Mary

— Pope

said smugglers

II

4,

who

"trade in the misery" of illegal immi-

rights in foreign countries

grants trying to get into Italy should be stopped. In remarks after giving his

respect the

Nov. 29 Sunday noon blessing in St. Peter's Square, the pope exhorted governments "urgently to adopt effective measures" to prevent smuggling and said the traffickers' consciences would be burdened by their actions. During

Canada for asylum," the council said. "While in Canada, we invite you to join us in calling our country to do more to recognize, protect and promote international human rights and international standards," said the Nov. 23

the previous week, a series of ship-

CCC letter.

wrecks off

Italy's

citizens

killed at least six people.

Church.

They

also said the

commu-

sometimes known as Ecclesial Base Communities, are "a privileged way to make the church present in their own environment." In a late-November document, the bishops discussed the small groups of Catholics nities,

a CNS PHOTO

Church near volcano

said.

social action.

After Mitch, bishops urge more than 'simple reconstruction' SAN SALVADOR (CNS) Central America's bishops have urged governments to go beyond the "simple re-

—

to "at-

for the poor.

of their dialogue over the past 10 years.

tor, is

Village

(and) build a

Roman Catholics,

Polish National

Central America." In a statement issued at the end of a four-day meeting

Catholics discuss

full

tack extreme poverty

...

new

Salvadoran capital, the 29 members of the Central American Episcopal Secretariat added their voices to in the

growing calls for a vast reconstruction and development program in the areas worst-hit by Mitch. Oregon officials challenged on health care payments for suicide SALEM, Ore. (CNS) The director of the Oregon Catholic Conference

—

has charged that state health officials exceeded their authority when they

made

doctor-assisted suicide a proce-

dure covered by the

state's health plan

L

—

(CNS) At a meeting in Scranton Nov. 4-5, Roman Catholic and Polish National Catholic Pa.

representatives discussed what

full

communion of their churches would mean. They agreed that for both sides full communion would include mutual recognition of the fullness of apostolic

sacraments and church governance in each other's churches, but it would not imply uniformity. During the meeting they also heard a report on the recent General Synod of the Polish National Catholic Church in Chicago and decided to draft a report on the fruits faith,

{piscopal, calendar

Catholic NEWS & H E K A

SCRANTON,

communion

,

D

December 4, 1998 Volume 8 • Number 14

aims to re-create Nazareth it

was when Jesus lived

NAZARETH,

Israel

(CNS)

— As

the dried brush and old debris were cleared

away from

a rocky field, Dr.

and

Nazareth where Jesus lived by

creating a living first-century village

on this areas

one of the few green

hillside,

still

left

undeveloped

in

Nazareth.

Churches say Canada must monitor its

own human rights practices

OTTAWA

(CNS)

— The

Cana-

dian government should practice what it

Diocesan, planner Ongoing

CHARLOTTE

—

Hispanic Editor: Luis Wolf

Sharon United Methodist Church

tree

Production Associate: Julie Radcliffe

7 p.m.

Secretary: Jane Glodowski

Gabriel Young Adult Ministry "Talk Show"

St.

E-mail: catholicnews@charlottediocese.org

December 8 7 p.m. Holy Day of Obligation

P.O.

The Catholic News & Herald. published by the

Roman

USPC

007-393,

—

is

Catholic Diocese of Charlotte,

23 South Church St. Charlotte, NC 28203, 44 times a year, weekly except for Christmas week and Easter week and every two weeks during June, July and August for $15 per year for enrollees in parishes of 1 1

,

the

Roman

year for

all

Catholic Diocese of Charlotte and $1 8 per

other subschbers. Second-class postage

paid at Charlotte

NC and other cities. POSTMASTER:

Send address corrections to The Catholic News & Herald, PO. Box 37267, Charlotte, NC 28237. The Catholic News & Herald is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts

and photographs.

program

to benefit individuals

Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary Mass, St. Patrick Cathedral

December 10

—

10 a.m. Triad School meeting with pastors and principals

Women's

Shel-

Donations of toys and toiletries are being accepted. For details, call Nanette Lide, (704) 536-2340, or Leslie Johnson, (704) 542-2255. An exhibit on Belmont Abbey College and Monastery is at Museum of the New South, 324 N. College St., through Jan. 2, 1999. The compilation of archival images and artifacts captures the essence of the abbey and provides a glimpse of the people and events that have made its unique spirit and rich history. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 1 1 a.m.-5 p.m.. Admission ter in Charlotte.

St., Charlotte, NC 28203 Box 37267, Charlotte, NC 28237 Phone: (704) 370-3333 FAX: (704) 370-3382

1123 Soutti Church Mail:

tion

staying at the Battered

Advertising Representative: Cindi Feerick

SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS

—

thedral of Peace, Bishop

In the CaSamuel Ruiz

Garcia preached about "hopeful signs." "If there is a deterioration in the appli-

if

if

there

is

impunity

there are unpunished crimes,

then there is also the determined action of those who, in spite of how far away they are or their position, take the path of sacrifice and of service to build paths toward true peace," said Bishop Ruiz. He spoke Nov. 22 as a

meeting aimed

at relaunching the Chiapas peace process began nearby. A commission from Mexico's congress met for the first time in nearly two years with leaders of the Zapatista Na-

tional Liberation

Army.

preaches, the Canadian Council of

Bishop William G. Curlin will take

—

Resumption of Chiapas talks generates hopes for peace

2,000 years ago slowly come to life. In the next few years and with the help of an international team, Bishara hopes to share with others his vision of the

part in thefollowing events:

Curlin

tion "no longer holds them."

cation of justice,

Associate Editor: Jimmy Rostar

Most Reverend William G. Joann S. Keane

duties and customs," and this percep-

pastoral village of biblical Nazareth of

December 6 3 p.m. World AIDS day Ecumenical Service

Editor:

"labyrinth of doctrines, laws, religious

CASAS, Mexico (CNS)

The Youth in Acyouth ministry of Our Lady of Consolation Church, 2301 Statesville Ave., is coordinating a Christmas wish

Publisher:

Nov. 23-24, sevbishops also highlighted the shortage of priests and the growing role of deacons, catechists and lay leaders in the region. Bishop Peter J. CuUinane of Palmerston North, president of the New Zealand bishops' conference, said many people in Oceania experience the church as an imposed eral

Nakhle Bishara, medical director of Nazareth Hospital, watched a 12-yearold dream materialize before his eyes. While other people may have been looking at an overrun field in the middle of the noisy, crowded city of Nazareth, Bishara was watching the

biblical

to the cul-

peoples. In speeches

Catholic cathedral stands adjacent to Mexico's Popocatepetl volcano as a column of ash and steam billows from its core Nov. 27. Mexican officials said populations near the volcano in the southern state of Puebla were not in any danger from the recent activity but were put on alert.

as

manner more responsive

tures and spiritual aspirations of local

FROM Reuters

A

wake of Hurricane Mitch and

and

turgical services

li-

(CNS) ParSynod of Bishops for

Oceania urged the church to preach a simple and compassionate message, in

construction" of their countries in the

scriptural reflection,

own

—

VATICAN CITY

Robert Castagna, direcasking health plan administrators to withhold funds for the controversial procedure. Citing state code, he argued that the health services commission is allowed to make changes to the list of covered services only because of technical errors or advances in technology. Major policy decisions are the job of the Legislature, Castagna

who combine

doesn't its

and refugees who apply to

ticipants at the

—

lic

if it

rights of

Bishops urge church to be responsive to local cultures

southern coast had

Argentine bishops establish norms for basic Christian communities BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (CNS) The Argentine bishops have established norms for basic Christian communities, reminding them that they must show unity with the Catho-

human

CHARLOTTE

—

is

$2 for adults, and $1 for students,

seniors and teachers. Family admisis $5. Admission is free the second Saturday of each month. For more information, call (704) 333-1887.

sion

December 6 CHARLOTTE

—

The 1998 World Ecumenical Service, "A Time of Prayer and Healing," presided over by

AIDS Day

bishops of the Roman Catholic, Lutheran, Episcopalian and United Methodist churches in the Charlotte area, is today at

Sharon United Methodist Church, 1 Sharon Rd., from 3-4 p.m.

441

CHARLOTTE — St. Peter Church, located at 507

S.

Tryon St., two blocks east

of Ericsson Stadium, sells pre-game food today 21/2 hours prior to game time. Proceeds benefit local children's charities. Visitors are also welcome to tour the century-old church, the oldest Catholic church in Charlotte, and view its

famous fresco by Ben Long.

NEWTON

— The

today and each

first

rosary

is

prayed

Sunday following


The Foundation Of The Roman CathoUc

I

Diocese Of Charlotte

1997-98 Annual Report

The Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte

is

a nonprofit corporation, established to

provide endowments for the Diocese of Charlotte its

parishes, schools, agencies

and organizations. The

Foundation encourages Catholics through

gifts

those assets,

and

to

be good stewards

of assets, provides for the investment of

and distributes

the income to recipients.

The principal remains untouched. Endowments through The Foundation are a means

to greater financial stability

and growth for our diocese and its

entities.

A Message from the Bishop

The heart of the Gospel message

is

love: the love

of God for his Son, love of Christ

for each of us, the love of Christ for his Church. The Holy Mother Church has a mission to

spread that message, and we, the Diocese of Charlotte, have a mission

God's message of love throughout Western North Carolina. ensure the diocese will continue

Foundation of the

Roman

its

We have a

to

spread

secure

means

to

Catholic Diocese of Charlotte.

deceased,

who have

the Church. I

established

am also grateful to

have established endowments It is

for

my hope

that each

grateful to all those individuals, living

endowments

in

The Foundation

those pastors, principals,

their future financial security. I

entities will

and

to support the work of

and agency directors who

to benefit their respective parishes, schools

of our 181

and agencies.

soon establish an endowment to provide

wish to express

its

inception

The Foundation

Roman

Catholic

Diocese of Charlotte has

grown tremendously. The generosity of those

Many have already committed generously to The Foundation and I am gratified by and support. lam particularly

in 1994,

of the

mission of love for future generations through The

their faith

Since

my sincere

who

have gone before us has given us the Church as

know

it

we

today. Likewise,

it is

our responsibility as good stewards

to

provide a solid

foundation for the future of our diocese, parishes, schools, agencies and organizations.

The Foundation

will help us better provide for that future.

May God continue to bless you and those you

love.

lamas always.

appreciation to The Prayerfully in the Lord,

Foundation's Board of Directors for their commitment of time

and service.

Most Reverend William

G. Curlin, Bishop of Charlotte


2

Foundation

of the

Roman

Catholic Diocese of Charlotte Annual Report

December 4, 1998

A Message from the President

On of the

behalf of the entire Board of Directors, I am proud to present The Foundation

Roman

Catholic Diocese of Charlotte's 1997-98 annual report.

experienced phenomenal growth I

this fiscal

We have

year and I am pleased to be able

to give

hope these

you

some particulars about The Foundation.

\

thirty -three to fifty individual

following

entities:

I

Catholic Church,

I

Church,

St.

St. St.

an endowment. We

other individuals, pastors, pastoral

do

Leo Catholic Church,

St.

Therese Catholic Church, St.

Luke

St.

Francis ofAssisi Catholic

Barnabas Catholic Church, Sacred Heart Catholic School, Sacred Heart

Church, Holy Family Catholic Church, Christ the King Catholic Church, Immaculate

Heart of Mary School, Immaculata School, Priest Retirement

MACS Schools,

Seminarian Education,

and Catholic Social Services. These additions increased the number

to

We have no doubt benefitted these past four years from the incredible returns of the stock

market. While future returns

may be

less spectacular,

you may be assured that this board

fiscal strategy to

expand our current endowments and ensure the future of our

I

I

and ministries

the same.

endowments. Endowments were added to support the

John the Baptist Catholic Church,

encourage

stories will

councils, schools

During the past year, the number of endowments within the foundation has grown \from

established

diocese, our parishes,

is

committed to a diligent

our Catholic schools, and our Catholic

We

ministries.

are

I

I

of individual endowments by over 50%.

Our total assets I

\

\

committed to the people of this diocese and pledge our utmost

end of the fiscal year were $5,269,918, an increase of 40%

mission to which

we have been

to fulfill the

entrusted.

over the previous year's amount of $3, 752, 792. Invested assets generated a return of

15.8% for

the year ending

and 15.6%

Sincerely yours.

June 30, 1998, after generating a return of 19.7%, 16.5%

the previous three years.

In this year's report,

I

I

at the

endowment for a parish

we have included a

in

story of an individual

Greensboro and a story of our school

who

established an

in Asheville

V.M.

which

Nussbaum,

Jr.,

President

Board of Directors

The Foundation

is

governed by a Board

of Directors composed of clergy and lay

Mr. Paul Breitbach

Mr. Charles Greene

Executive Vice President, Finance

President, Classic Gallery

and Administration, people.

The Board's

objective

is

to

High

Krispy Kreme Corporation

NC

pursue an investment pohcy consistent

Winston-Salem,

with reasonable growth while prudendy

Dr. G.

safeguarding die principal. The directors

President and Chief Operating Officer,

are leaders in their parishes

and

St.

John

Coli

Most Reverend William G. botii

donors and recipients. This

Charlotte,

investment of The Foundation's assets

Mr.

while ensuring that the funds are disbursed according to the donor's

Cxirlin

Bishop of Charlotte

accountability includes the professional

NC

Inc.

Mr. Donald Hodgens

Mr.

Moore and Van Allen

Officer,

Inc.

Edward Snyder

President, E.

NC

Church

NC

Greensboro,

Albemarle,

J.

Snyder and Company

NC

Mr. Frank laPointe

Mr. Louis Stephens

Owner, LaPointe Honda

Retired President, Pilot Life Insurance

NC

Greensboro,

President, Charlotte Charlotte,

Trimming Co.

NC

Very Reverend Mauricio West

Mr. Antonio Lopez-Ibanez

Chairman and Chief Executive

Hickory,

Pastor, St. Benedict Catholic

Charlotte,

Boyd George

Alex Lee

Reverend Msgr. Joseph Showfety

ORG Associates, Winston-Salem, NC

Chadotte,

communities, and are accountable to

Inc.

NC

Greensboro,

Mr. Gerard Gunzenhauser

Attorney,

NC

Jr.

Chairman, Southem Foods,

NC

President,

Joseph Health Services

Asheville,

Point,

Mr. V.M. Nussbaum,

Group

Vicar General, Diocese of Charlotte

Inc.

NC

Charlotte,

NC

NC

wishes.

Statements of Financial Position

The Foundation of the

Roman Catholic

Diocese of Charlotte, Inc. Statements of Financial Position,

June 30, 1998 and 1997

Assets:

Cash

$

Receivables

Support and other receivables Interest

Investments Total assets

$

and net

$

Custodial and annuity obhgations

9,561

30,870

11,884

264,589

35,166

4,921,645

3,689,929

5,269,918

$ 3,752,792

12,165

$

4,353

2,580,385

1,924,170

2,592,550

1,928,523

687,437

570,387

Temporarily restricted net assets

533,534

356,908

Permanently restricted net assets

1,456,397

896,974

2,677,368

1,824,269

5,269,918

$ 3,752,792

Total net assets copy of the independent audit by Arthur available upon request.

2,323

12,118

Unrestricted net assets

Total habiUties

is

15,813

assets:

Accounts payable

Andersen and Co.

$

18,752

and dividends receivable

Total receivables

Liabilities

52,814

-

Assets held in trust

A

1997

1998

Total liabilities

and net

assets

$


December 4, 1998

Foundation

Endowments

Roman

Catholic Diocese of Charlotte Annual Report

as of June 30, 1998

Diocesan Endowments

Parish

The A. Loraine Cox and C. Richard Cox Priest Retirement

of the

The

Endowment Fund

Maffitt

Endowment Fund

Established through

our

This fund provides financial support for

provides assistance

to

a

The

Endowments

Endowment Fund

endowment assists

Diocese of Charlotte.

The Diocesan Support Appeal (DSA)

The Unrestricted Endowment Fund

a

Established through

Catholic missions in the

retired priests.

The Amber Lundgren Memorial Scholarship

Lawrence

Basilica of St.

bequest, this fund

Endowment Fund This fund provides for scholarship aid to

bequest, this

in meeting the needs of the

Endowment Fund

Income from

ministries supported by the

this fund

used

is

work of The Eoundation and

DSA.

The

to assist in the

to

meet fecial

Endowment Fund

Benedict

St.

This fund provides for the pastoral

The Eleanor C. Murphy Educational Trust

and

Endowments

This endowment fund is part of the Edward M. Murphy Educational Trust

Salisbury.

The Joseph M. Bryan, The Living Waters Cathohc

The African American and Native American

Established through

Endowment Fund

This fund benefits the needs of minorities

This fund provides for the program needs of

across the diocese.

this retreat center in

Maggie

Valley.

Sr.

Endowment Fund

Reflection Center

Endowment Fund

a

Endowment.

bequest, this fund

provides for the maintenance

The Our Lady of Mercy Endowment Fund

and

enhancement of Our Lady of Grace Church

This fund provides for corporal works of

in Greensboro.

mercy for parishioners of this parish in Winston-Salem.

The Catholic Social Services

The Alma Comely Memorial

Endowment Fund

Endowment Fund

The Our Lady of

This fund provides for the general needs of this

Established through

diocesan ministry across the western half

Hill, this

of North Carolina.

St.

fund provides support

to the

Missions

Driscoll

Endowment Fund

Endowment Fund

The Lee Endowment Fund

The Conklin Endowment Fund

This fund bequest, this fund

Established through

a

bequest, this fund

provides financial support for the education of

our seminarians.

our seminarians.

established to help meet the

This fund provides financial support for the

This fund provides financial support for the

education of our seminarians.

education of our seminarians.

The

St.

Gabriel

Endowment Fund

This fund provides for the pastoral

(MACS)

for students at Charlotte Catholic High School.

was

established to enable the school

MACS schools

The

Francis

J.

a

St.

Therese

curriculum.

in

parish in Forest

bequest, this

Mooresville.

The Olga and George Testa

City.

James Endowment Fund

St.

This fund provides for the pastoral

This fund provides for the faith formation

and

needs of St. Michael Church in Gastonia

educational needs of this parish in Concord.

High Point.

The Father

UNC Charlotte,

students at Charlotte Catholic

This fund provides for scholarships to

Endowment Fund

This fund established by the

this fund

parish in Tryon for attendance at a post

this

St.

This fund provides for the pastoral

St.

Vincent de Paul

Endowment Fund

and

This fund provides for the general needs of

Valley.

this

High Point.

Jude Endowment Fund

educational needs of this mission in Sapphire

graduating seniors for a college of their

needs of children in Christ the King parish in

The The

Endowment Fund

CCHS Alumni

Association provides scholarships for

Tomaino

secondary school.

UNC Charlotte.

The Sacred Heart School

Peter

Endowment Fund This fund provides for the faith formation

graduating high school seniors from

High School Alumni

Association Scholarship

John Memorial Endowment Fund

Campus

Established through the Catholic

Ministry Office at

St.

provides scholarship assistance for Catholic

McGuinness.

The

The

Endowment Fund

Endowment Fund

education of the students at Bishop

and

educational needs of this parish in

Endowment Fund The

The Kim Piccolo Scholarship

The Bishop McGuinness High School

This fund provides financial support for the

Endowment Fund

This fund provides for the pastoral

Endowment Fund

McGrail Scholarship

students of Immaculate Heart of Mary School

school's

educational needs of this parish in Salisbury.

endowment provides for the needs of this

This fund provides for scholarship aid to

enhance the

The Immaculate Conception

Established through

Charlotte.

assistance, to offer continuing education for to

and

This fund provides for the pastoral

and

in

to retain quality teachers, to offer scholarship

and

and

Statesville.

The Sacred Heart Threshold Endowment Fund

The

Endowment Fund

teachers

Phihp the Apostle

educational needs of this parish in Clemmons.

established to meet the needs of

The Asheville Catholic School Foundation Endowment Fund was

This fund provides for the pastoral

Education Foundation

the students in the seven

St.

and

Endowment Fund This fund

educational

educational needs of this parish in

The Holy Family Endowment Fund The Mecklenburg Area Cathohc Schools

Endowment Fund

and

Endowment Fund

educational needs of this parish in Charlotte.

Established to provide scholarship assistance

bequest, this fund

This fund provides for the pastoral

Education Endowments The American Schlafhorst Scholarship

The

and

educational needs of this parish in Franklin.

Endowment Fund

a

provides for the pastoral

Endowment Fund

Francis of Assisi

St.

This fund provides for the pastoral

The Seminarians Education

Established through

needs of this parish in Thomasville.

The

Cox and C. Richard Cox Seminarians Education Endowment Fund Lx)raine

was

needs of Sacred Heart parish in Brevard.

provides financial support for the education of

This fund

and

This fund provides for the pastoral

educational needs of this parish in Charlotte.

The Our Lady of the Highways

The Jack

The A.

Assumption

Holy Child fesus.

Vocation Endowments a

the

Endowment Fund

Luke Church in Mint

of the Society of the

Established through

Endowment Fund

of students from Sacred Heart Church in

Greensboro.

Ministry

Scholarship

This fund provides scholarships for the benefit

educational needs of this parish in

needs not addressed by other restricted funds.

St.

secondary school.

historic Basilica in Asheville.

Established to provide financial assistance for

a

Barnabas parishioner for attendance at a post

and

This fund provides for the pastoral

educational needs of this parish in Charlotte.

The Yates-Murphy Educational Trust

school in Salisbury.

The

St.

Leo Endowment Fund

Scholarship

Endowment Fund

choice.

The Frank Spinks Endowment Fund The Faucette Endowment Fund Established through a bequest, this fund

Established through

was

established to benefit the educational ministry

of our Catholic schools

a

Established through

Immaculata School

of

students as

St.

St.

Luke Founders' Endowment Fund

This fund provides for the local, national

Established through

a

bequest, this fund

provides for scholarship aid to minority students at

Patrick School in Charlotte.

Immaculata School in

Hendersonville.

The

F.

Joseph Treacy Endowment Fund

Established through

a

bequest, this fund

provides for scholarship aid

seven

MACS schools

to

students in the

in Charlotte.

This fund provides scholarships for the benefit

of students from Holy

and

international outreach activities of this parish in

Mint

Hill.

Name Church

Bedford, Massachusetts.

fund

in

The Mary Spinks Endowment Fund

This fund provides scholarship assistance for

educational

Hendersonville.

Charlotte.

The Megan Healy Scholarship Endowment Fund

and

needs of this parish in Winston-Salem.

The in the Diocese

bequest, this fund

provides for the pastoral

bequest, this fund

provides for professional development activities for the staff at

a

is

This

in

New

endowment

part of the Edward M. Murphy

Educational Trust Endowment.

3


4

Foundation

Roman

of the

Catholic Diocese of Charlotte Annual Report

December

Endowment Assists Asheville School as

By Mike Krokos Reprinted from the Catholic

ASHEVILLE — While many of i

News and Herald the Diocese

of Charlotte's Catholic schools are affiliated

it

Moves Toward Future

proximately $400,000 was raised, and the

Asheville CathoUc, which serves students in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade,

is

unique

in other

ways,

was

result

When

too.

Catholic School Educational Foundation in

former school administrator Father Jim Solari

focuses of Asheville CathoUc's educational

retain

ministry, he turned to the diocese for guid-

tance, offer continuing education,

unique.

is

As school

the only interparochial institution, the

is

responsible for ministering to the

ance.

I

educational needs of five Catholic ties in

communi-

Asheville and other surrounding par-

in the area's

CathoUc community

"The endowment enables the school

the major

An endowment campaign was

alumni families.

By

quaUty teachers, offer scholarship

to

assis-

who

Cancro,

the end of the drive, ap-

endowment

that the best

meeting the school's needs) was

(to

up an ongoing structure

that

would

could rely on."

and enhance In recent years, funds

ment have benefited

school's current administrator. Father Frank

that in-

seemed

it

provide some regular income that the school

the school's curriculum," explained the

initiated

cluded friends of the school, alumni, and

ishes as well.

answer setting

School I

some of

could provide, and

1990.

saw

the need to address

"Father Solari saw the benefits an

the estabhshment of the Asheville

with individual parishes, Asheville CathoUc I

1998

4,

from the endow-

the school with computer

hardware and software programs, and

shares chaplaincy duties at

up-

in

grading the computer education program.

Asheville Catholic with other area pastors.

Monies have

also assisted in integrating

com-

puters within other parts of the curriculum as

Means Secure Future

Gift

weU. Also, school

for Greensboro Parish

TAP

—

officials recently finalized

a Tuition Assistance

—

Program

that

will help students with educational costs.

we

"Since

are

committed

an

to offering

education both to the CathoUc community and

By Mike Krokos Reprinted from the Catholic

GREENSBORO — From its

Church. Through his

Bryan

earliest days,

memo-

The Foundation of

church property.

wife, Ethel Price, a convert to

The

Bryan endowment

current

The

An

rishioner Joseph

totals

endowment, the principal

distribut-

number of endowments up

to

the

endowment fund

has always

as

50 and the

Foundation are

additional $100,000

Jr.,

was added

continue to

"Through

in

never used. The

is

The Foundation

is

of the diocesan

total assets

at

CathoUc school," Father Cancro

Bryan

left

a

endowment

aUow Our Lady of Grace

to

gift will

When

the parish celebrated

versary in 1977, Joseph

Bryan

—

the latter of

25th anni-

its

more

M. and Kathleen

whom

of Ethel and Julius Price

ment

the daughter

is

— donated money

with which the "Jubilee Organ" and

gallery

its

Although not CathoUc, Bryan was his wife's parish.

Bryans' three children, Joseph

as well,

OLG

in

after his

When Bryan

Sr.

honor of

practice of giving back to the

ued even

Jr.,

al-

The

Nancy and

repairs

their estate plans.

als estabUshing

said.

its

"It

minis-

in

Kelley added that individu-

endowments

from our monthly income, we

school without having to be concerned about

also have an oppormnity to give

accumulated assets

are going to replace a broken boiler

is

unique as weU.

It

a church similar to

to

from our

endow churches

As

would be

ing an endowment. "

difficult to build

Our Lady of Grace

to consider creat-

The expenses of

operat-

high," he said.

died in 1995, he

will enable the parish to maintain the beauty

very beneficial; monies are earmarked for the

quest of $200,000 to

Our Lady of Grace

of

its

structures for years to

to

50 and the

total

milUon.

"Through

their gifts, Asheville Catholic

supporters are allowing the school to

and meet

its

grow

needs in perpetuity," said Jim

Kelley added that individuals contribut-

day," he added, "and Mr. Bryan's generosity

a be-

up

assets of the diocesan Foundation are at $5.2

ing to

ing a parish and running a physical plant are

to-

Roman CathoUc

the is

KeUey, executive director of The Foundation.

parishes plan for the future, Father

Lamprich encourages them

and history are

princi-

in the

wife passed away in 1984. left

The Foundation of

diocese of Charlotte," he said. unique, and this archi-

endowment, the

never used. The number of endowments

is

take another step

how we

tectural style, structure,

Church contin-

gifts

more than $430,000. The

Diocese of Charlotte

Uving out the Ufe of stewardship. "Just as

we make

including outreach, and fund the parish

"The church

That

in

Bryan's legacy by remembering the church in

and ad-

or fix a leaky roof."

would make

his wife.

make

totals

parishioners across the

diocese are following the example of Mr.

budget being affected," Lamprich

brought up in the Catholic faith

and each year Bryan

a donation to

More and more

ditions to our buildings without our annual

tries,

ways supportive of

all

will enable us to

said.

The Foundation.

tive director of

"The endow-

will allow the parish to continue

were dedicated.

Kay, were

effectively for the future.

not

continue to generate funds for the

school, because as an

parish in perpetuity," said Jim Kelley, execu-

the Bryans' generosity, the parish can plan

who may

to enroll in a

The current AsheviUe CathoUc School

continue to grow and meet the needs of the

weU.

of Our Lady of Grace Church, said through

its

a real opportunity for us to con-

have the resources necessary

$5.2 million.

his gift, Mr.

legacy that will

to

Marian Father Mark Lamprich, pastor

church family as well.

see the value of Catholic educa-

tinue that mission with families

pal

had a descendant of the Prices as part of

who

TAP is

generate funds for the church, because as an

and enhancement of

M. Bryan

gift will

tion,

Roman

the

The

nearly $400,000.

donated several years earlier by his son, pa-

growth over the years and currently consists It

in

for the maintenance

Catholicism, the parish has witnessed steady

of more than 1600 households.

M.

income from the endowment provides

able

EstabUshed in 1952 with monies donated

rial to his late

the Joseph

Endowment Fund was estabUshed

Catholic Diocese of Charlotte.

with generous parishioners and families.

Price, a Baptist, as a living

Sr.

June

last

Our Lady of Grace Church has been blessed

by Julian

gift,

others

News and Herald

"An endowment Uke

ours

is

endowments take another

step in Uving

we make

out a Ufe of stewardship. "Just as gifts

from our monthly income, we also have

an opportunity to give from our accumulated assets to

endow

and other

schools, churches

organizations in the Diocese of Charlotte," he

buildings which enable us to invest in the

come."

said.

people."

For more information about The Foundation or estabUshing an

endowment, contact

Jim Kelley, executive director of The Foundation,

1123 S. Church

28203, or

The Catholic Heritage Society

is

the diocese's

way of honoring

the Christian generosity of

providing for the future of the Church. Membership in the Catholic Heritage Society

make

a planned gift to the Diocese of Charlotte or any of

its

Charlotte, N.C.

St.,

(704) 370-3301.

CathoUc friends who are

open

is

call

anyone who agrees

to

parishes, schools, agencies or organizations.

to

Consider

the following planned gifts:

I A BEQUEST IN YOUR WILL

is

perhaps the simplest

or other property from your estate.

You can

way to give. You can name The Foundation to receive a gift of cash The Foundation receives a specified amount, a percentage of your

stipulate that

estate, or the

remainder

after all the other bequests are fulfilled.

GIFTS OF CASH, SECURiriES, REAL ESTATE or Other TANGIBLE ASSETS to establish

when

an endowment are an ideal

way of giving

to

The Foundation,

sufficient

particularly

the donated assets are highly appreciated.

GIFTS OF LIFE INSURANCE allow you

you were

to give

to

make

you akeady own, or you can purchase a policy LIFE

a gift that might be larger than

if

an asset outright. You can give The Foundation a paid up poUcy that

INCOME ARRANGEMENTS

For more information contact:

to donate.

allow you to

make

gifts to

Jim Kelley

The Foundation during

The Foundation

your lifetime while retaining and even increasing your income from those assets for the remainder of your hfe.

These include

trusts

of the

and annuities.

Roman

Catholic

Diocese of Charlotte

These and other opportunities for giving

to

The Foundation of the Roman The Foundation staff

1123

Catholic Diocese of Charlotte can be explored with you. will be

happy

right for you.

to

work with you and your

advisors to help determine which gift

S.

Church

Street

NC

28203

Charlotte, is

Phone 704-370-3301 Fax 704-370-3378


December

4,

1998

The Catholic News & Herald 3

Ihc News

In

Conference ignites spirituai fires of discussion, reflection NELLENBACH

By joanita M.

Correspondent

—

LAKE JUNALUSKA

At the

end of the Year of the Holy Spirit, Catholics from throughout the Diocese of Charlotte gathered to reflect on the Spirit's action in their lives.

and the Holy was the title of "Fire in the Mountains '98," held Nov. 21 at the Lambuth Inn at Lake Junaluska. About 160 people from 18 parishes at"Scripture, Eternity

Spirit,"

tended the annual event.

Guest speaker Father George William Church

Kloster, pastor of St.

Murphy and Immaculate Heart of Mary in Hayesville, is vicar of the Smoky Mountain Vicariate. in

Father Kloster discussed

Holy

references to the

St. Paul's

Spirit as the

source of unity in the church. "We are a community, not people Photo by Joanita M. Nellenbach

Father George Kloster addresses a group of some 160 people during "Fire in the Mountains '98" held Nov. 21 at Lake Junaluska.

seeking individual salvation," he said. "One characteristic of this fellowship is a diversity of gifts. It is always something to be seen as given to the community, not something for individual benefit. It's a spirit that calls us to a

sharing of our earthly possessions so the church is enlivened." Father Kloster noted that flame

had been inspired by and fostered the

and wind uncontrollable forces are symbols of the Holy Spirit. Tensions can arise when emphasis is placed on the "institutional church" rather than on the Holy Spirit. "The mission of the church is the proclamation of the reign of God," Fa-

talked about eternity.

—

—

work of the Holy

Spirit.

In the afternoon. Father Kloster

"When we

talli

the Gospel takes a back seat to church-

about eternity," he said, "we are talking about Christian hope." As in the morning when he talked about the gifts of the Holy Spirit given for the good of the community, he emphasized that death entrance into eternity is about community. "It's an experience of the community," he said. "The early church saw

as-institution, he added, there

this as a

ther Kloster said.

When

emphasis on proclaiming is

a reli-

ance on law rather than on love, a higher value on control than on freedom, on doctrine rather than on dialogue, an attitude of fear rather than faith, and authoritarianism rather than collegiality.

"I'm not throwing out the institu-

What I'm saying is that the priorof the church has to be life in the Spirit, and the institutional church has tion. ity

to support that."

Lively discussion during the morning's small-group session included discussion of

how

Vatican

II

—

—

it

community

we

experience;

see

as individual."

In the afternoon's small-group discussions, people shared their expe-

riences of death. "It reminds us of our fragileness, that death

is

this close all

the time," Sheryl Peyton of St. Barnabas in Arden said. "I always tell people," said Delores Landwehr of St. Joseph in Bryson City, "to never leave the house in the morning without putting your arms around your husband or your wife or your children and kiss them and tell them

you love them."

t

Vatican outlines guidelines for gaining Holy Year indulgences By CINDY

WOODEN

The pope

News Service CITY (CNS)

Catholic

VATICAN

—

Visit-

ing Christ present in the Eucharist at St.

Peter's Basilica or visiting Christ

present in an inmate at a local prison can fulfill part of the requirements for gaining an indulgence during the Holy

forgiven through sacramental confes-

of the Apostolic Penitentiary, said the main requirements for the indulgence

sion and the performance of penance

include sacramental confession and the

"does not

said the fact that sins are

mean

no enfrom which

that there are

during consequences of sin

we must The

be purified."

In a four-page appendix to Pope John Paul IPs bull proclaiming the

special granting of indulgences is a traditional part of a holy year and usually involves sacramental confession, reception of the Eucharist and prayer at one of the four main

Holy Year, the Vatican's Apostolic

basilicas in

Year 2000.

Penitentiary in late

November

lined the conditions for

Holy Year

in-

dulgences.

"With the indulgence, the repentant sinner receives a remission of the

temporal punishment due for the sins already forgiven," Pope John Paul said in

the bull, "Incarnationis

Mysterium"

("The Mystery of the Incarnation").

the 10 a.m.

Mass

720 West 13th tion, call (828)

7

at St.

St.

Joseph Church,

For more informa-

464-9207.

MORGANTON

—

Bill

community in Goochland, speak and show slides about

Va., will his recent

to Iraq today at 7 p.m. at St.

Charles Borromeo Church, 728 West Union St. Part of a delegation visiting Baghdad and Basra, Frankel-Streit visited several medical centers and spoke with church and government of-

about sanctions on the Iraqi ciFor details, call Francisco Risso, (828) 438-4359, or the parish office, (828) 437-3108. 8 CHARLOTTE The diocesan Re-

ficials

vilian operation.

—

spect Life Office invites

all

parishio-

ners in the Diocese of Charlotte to participate in the National Night of

Prayer for Life

in parishes

beginning

today, the feast of the Immaculate Conception, at 9 p.m. through 1 a.m.

Dec,

9,

the

churches has been expanded ticularly to include basilicas

Holy Land

— and

list

—

in

of

parthe

the possibilities of

obtaining indulgences through works of mercy and charity has been enlarged.

The

Vatican document, signed by U.S. Cardinal William W. Baum, head

appearance to Blessed Juan Diego. Parishes are asked to have eucharistic adoration, recitation of 15 decades of

FrankelStreit, peace activist and member of the Little Flower Catholic Worker

visit

Rome. For the year 2000, the

out-

commemoration of Mary's

the rosary, other prayers, silent mediation

and Benediction. For suggestions

and more information,

call

Maggi

Nadol, (704) 370-3229.

9

CHARLOTTE

— A support group

and remarried "outside the church" meets today in the Classrooms 1 and 2 in the activity center at St. Ann Church, 3635 Park Rd., from 6:30-7:30 p.m. For details, call Cindy Shortall, (704) 529-5080. 10 ASHEVILLE St. Joan of Arc Church's Caring Hearts AIDS Ministry sponsors a healing Mass today at 7 p.m. in the church, 919 Haywood Rd. j^U are welcomed, especially those in need of .spiritual healing and those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, and other chronic and terminal illnesses, including mental illness and addiction. Refreshments will follow. For more information, call (828) 252-3151. for persons separated, divorced

—

1 1

CHARLOTTE

— Dance Central

reception of the Eucharist, praying for

of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem, the Basilica of the Nativity in Bethlehem or the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth.

— Throughout

the intentions of the pope and per-

forming works of charity and penance. With the basic requirements fulthe faithful can gain an indulgence by attending Mass or another liturgical service or by adoration of the Eucharist, then reciting the Lord's Prayer, the profession of faith and a Marian prayer at: The Roman basilicas of St. Peter's at the Vatican, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, St. Paul Outside the Walls, Holy Cross or St. Lawrence in Campo Verano; the catacombs; or the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Divine Love. filled,

—

—

In the

Holy Land

the world at dioc-

esan cathedrals or other churches designated by the local bishop. Cloistered monks and nuns and the homebound can receive the indulgence by saying the prayers in their chapel or "by spiritually uniting themselves" with those gaining the indulgences in the usual way and "by offering to God their prayers, sufferings

and discomforts." Indulgences also can be gained by going to confession and Communion, then:

—

Visiting people in need or in

at the Basilica

See

indulgences,

page

premieres a re-creation of Weidman's "Christmas Oratorio" today at 8 p.m. in St. Peter Church, 507 S. Tryon St. An encore performance is Dec. 12 at 8 p.m.

noon in honor of the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. For details, call

Tickets are $9 for adults and $8 for children, and group discounts are available. To order, call (704) 330-4029.

vice

CHARLOTTE — The Ultreya Chriscommunity meets today at St. Matthew Church, 8015 Ballantyne tian

Commons Parkway, from

7:30-8:30

p.m. to share experiences, prayer and

plans for apostolic action. Call Don or Cheryl Bohlen, (704) 542-1241.

CHARLOTTE — A celebration of the

feast of

day

at

Our Lady of Guadalupe is toSt. Matthew Church, 8015

Ballantyne Commons Parkway, at 7:30 p.m. and includes a procession, evening vespers, veneration of the image of Mary, and eucharistic adoration (until 9 a.m. Dec. 12). For details or to reserve a time of adoration, call Janet

Chapman, (704) 846-9524.

12 BURNSVILLE Church hosts

a

— Sacred

Heart Spanish Mass today at

(828) 689-3719.

CHARLOTTE

— A gift-wrap

offered at St.

is

Ann

ser-

School,

from 10 a.m.-4 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Dec. 19 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Dec. 20 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wrapping paper is provided, or you may bring your own. Proceeds benefit the school. For more information, call Carey Jacobsen at (704) 362-2087 or Grace Narus at (704) 543-1237.

3635 Park

Rd., today

p.m., Dec.

1

3

13

CHARLOTTE — A charismatic

Mass

is

celebrated today at

St.

Patrick Cathedral, 1621 Dilworth Rd. East, at 4 p.m. Prayer teams are available at 3 p.m., and a potluck dinner follows Mass in the school cafeteria.

For more information,

at (704)

call Josie

527-4676.

Please submit notices of events for the Diocesan Planner 10 days prior to publication date.

7


4

The Catholic News & Herald

December

A

priest

who writes stories for children

many authors in Roman collars among my favorites. But I can't remember a priest-author who wrote for the very specific audi-

Speaks

1998

The Bottom

1 number

The Pope

4,

Line

ence of children. Now that is no longer the case, for I have met Father Richard Lewandowski, a priest of the Diocese of Worcester, Mass., and children's book author.

His charmingly illustrated books, "Shooting Stardust" and "Babci's Angels," have just been pub-

ANTOINNETTE BOSCO

by Ambassador Books under the name Frrich Lewandowski, as his grandmother called him. lished

POPE JOHN PAUL fc

i h->

H

1^ -.sMI :

Pope says Vatican il renewal gives church hope for new millennium By CINDY

WOODEN

News Service (CNS) The renewal sparked by the Second Vatican Council has given the Catholic Church firm grounds for hope as it approaches the third millennium. Pope John Paul II said. The council marked "a renewed Pentecost," and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit has filled Catholic

—

VATICAN CITY

the church with signs of hope, the pope said Nov. 25 during his weekly general audience. The growth of dialogue and mutual respect among members of the Catholic Church, with other Christian communities and with the world's great religions bode well for the future, the pope said. Within the church, he said, the rediscovery of the Spirit's gifts to each person has increased the sense of community and communion among priests, religious and lay people, "giving rise to a joyful and renewed commitment to evangelization."

Holy Spirit today encourages the church to promote the vocation and mission of the lay faithful," the pope said. Their "In particular, the

I read them to my young grandchildren, who asked me, "Please, read them again." That's the applause an author wants to hear! Both books deal with subjects that are hard to discuss with children serious illness and death. Father Lewandowski and I met last summer in Worcester, and he told me over lunch that he had been inspired to write "Shooting Stardust" from personal experience. The book is a warmly written story of a young boy, Joey, who loses his brother. Joey is in much pain because he misses his brother so much and realizes his parents are feeling the same sadness. Then something happens I won't give the story away and Joey learns that his brother is happy in his new life and is also always with them. Father Lewandowski dedicated the book to his sister Carolyn Killelea, who died prematurely. He said that going deep inside himself to confront his own painful experience of death was therapeutic. The book, he says, conveys an important message: Love never dies; relationships transcend death. The publisher calls this "a consoling book for people too young to understand theology and redemptive suffering." The book has been endorsed by the "Why Me?" organization that helps families of children dealing with cancer. "Babci's Angel" is a tale of two young brothers, struck by tragedy, but it is an eminently joyful book that has to do with grandparents, Christmas, angels,

—

—

—

CNS

Columnist

—

— —

and ready for this? toes. The crucial elements here are love and prayer not surprising in a book

by a priest who "just part of

calls his storytelling a

ministry and

my priesthood."

Father Lewandowski, who is pastor of St. Camillus Parish in Fitchburg, Mass., and chaplain of the Newman Center at Fitchburg State College, explained that he began writing for children in 1996. That's when he became somewhat annoyed that the beautiful message of Easter was getting second place to the Easter Bunny. So he wrote a story about the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus, as seen through the eyes of a bunny, called, "The First Easter Bunny."

He self-published it in soft cover, and it was a hit. Ambassador Books will publish a hard cover version on time for Easter '99. "He wants children to see beyond Easter eggs and bunnies, and he does this in a charming way," said Gerry Goggins, former editor of The Catholic Free Press in Worcester and now founder and publisher of Ambassador Books (Worcester, Mass.), 1-800-577-0909. Children who find "Shooting Stardust" and "Babci's Angel" under the Christmas tree this year will

have a lasting

gift.

participation and sense of responsibility in the

church's

life

"lead us to await with hope the

dawn of the third millennium." The role which women are the church and society

he

is

made room

Reflections

do they wait on spontaneity

— They know how

priority

commitment," the pope

said.

The Second Vatican Council also marked a new era in the church's relationship with nonChristian religions, he said. "In particular,

steps forward

I

am happy to recall the great

made

in the dialogue

with the

Jews, our elder brothers.

"The fact that all religions are opening themselves to dialogue with trust and have noted the urgency of uniting their efforts to give a soul to progress and to contribute to the morality of peoples is a great sign of hope for humanity," the pope said. Meeting more than 3,600 Italian military police cadets and sailors in St. Peter's Basilica before the main audience. Pope John Paul urged them to model their lives on the New Testament's Roman centurions, who professed their faith in Christ and converted to Christianity-

to

make romance. No longer in their

lovemaking.

They make it happen. They experience synergy in their relationship. The marriage is more than just the sum of its parts. They know that their relationship is capable of much. more than their singular efforts. This sense of

said.

The church is becoming more aware of "the feminine genius," he said, "which must gain greater recognition in forms appropriate to the vocation of women in conformity with the designs of God." Particularly after the Second Vatican Council, "our century has seen the germination and growth of the seed of the ecumenical movement," Pope John Paul said. "The search for unity and ecumenical concerns have been accepted as 'a necessary dimension of the whole life of the church' and as a

the perennial vexations

of the other.

called to play in

another sign of hope,

in their lives for

Family

—

ANDREW & TERRI

LYKE

Guest Columnists

abundance compels them to be fruitful. That fruitfulness is expressed in their openness to children in their relationship, their serving the community, or their generosity to others.

— They know how

Identifying the sacramental marriage We hear and talk much about the sacramental marriage. We ask ourselves, and we're sure other couples do too, how do we know when we're in a sacramental marriage? Are we doing it right? Well, there are no definitive answers here. Our road is crooked with turns and twists that give us reasons for doubt. Talking with other couples, we have, however, found a few hallmarks that indicate that God is present in their marriages and that presence is projected to others. While this in not an exhaustive list, it is but a few indicators of the sacramental couple: They have laughter together. Their sense of humor, even in times of conflict and disillusionment, lifts them to a better place. They can laugh at each other and themselves while being sensitive to hurtful areas. Their laughter reminds them of the joy promised to them, and keeps them hopeful. They play together. Their playfulness takes them away from their worlds of work and homemaking. They go on dates, vacations, dancing, or they just close their doors for their private playful times.

—

—

— They know each

to set a table.

There

is

a

unique style to their hospitality. A special blend of their talents, temperaments and tastes, their welcoming of others feels "like home" to their guests. They know brokenness. Their faithfulness is not founded on an idealistic sense of purity, but rather a strength derived from having risen from the ashes of broken promises and shattered dreams. They know how to forgive one another and carry with them a spirit of reconciliation. Facing the unknown future together, there is a confidence in them that they can survive their imperfections. They have a shared spirituality. Though they come from different experiences of faith, they have discovered in their relationship a spiritual dimension special,

—

—

that feeds

them and draws them

closer to

God. They

give primacy to this aspect of their relationship.

They

recognize their marriage as a path to holiness.

— And

They

finally,

the sacramental marriage

is

hope-

live in a positively accelerated narrative

of keeps them hopeful regardless of the current difficulty. They are empowered with relationship skills that give them reasons for hope.

ful.

faith that

other's issues. After a year,

& Terri Lyke are coordinators of marriage

"Dear young men, I encourage you to add an ever-more-convinced life of faith to your

five years,

ticular issues they respectively bring to the relation-

ministry in the African- American community for the

military experience, nourishing

ship are still there. They've given up efforts to change the other. Understanding and acceptance have become the goals. They have moved over and

Archdiocese of Chicago.

prayer," the

pope told them.

it

with frequent

20 years, 50 years of marriage, those par-

Andrew


December

1998

4,

could receive the transmitted message.

One

Light

Undaunted, Marconi went to England and took ever granted for a practical

Holiday

system of wireless radio. To address the privacy problem, he placed reflectors around the transmitting antennae to concentrate the radiated electrical energy

Humor

out a patent, the

Candle

McSWEENEY Guest Columnist

From Aha! to opportunity

my 25 years

of teaching Communications Inback home at Gannon University in Erie, Pa.,

The Catholic University of America in D.C., I most treasured those moments when I would see a

or at

student's eyes suddenly flash with a fresh insight

whatever we were studying. I had to pick one lecture that was fail-safe in sparking that kind of response, it would have to be the into

If

appeal

lies

in

The

the slow-witted, almost comical dis-

missal of Marconi's brainchild by so

into a

beam

While

this didn't solve the

New York

historical account of Marconi's invention of radio.

many people.

first

instead of spreading

in all directions.

it

problem of others intercepting messages in its path, Marconi did discover that he could send messages even greater distances. In 1899, he was invited by several newspapers in

FATHER THOMAS J.

all

The Catholic News & Herald 5

{ditoriah & Columns

It is

importance of handling a weakness not as a problem but as an opportunity. In 1894, the young Marconi read about electromagnetic wave theory and his imagination was stirred by the idea that these unseen waves might be used in communication. He set to work on apparatuses for sending and receiving telegraph messages through the air (hence, "wireless") and soon was able to transmit coded signals more than a mile. Marconi offered his invention to the Italian government, but it was rejected. Skeptics pointed out that messages, even though cryptically encoded, could be picked up by unintended parties with a receiving device and then decoded. There was no way of maintaining privacy in communication. Everyone and anyone a terrific object lesson in the

progress of the America's Cup yacht race. It was a huge success, arousing worldwide excitement and leading to the formation of the American Marconi Company. Critics and doubters finally realized that what had been perceived as a weakness in Marconi's invention was actually its strength. On Dec. 11, 1901, the first transatlantic radio signal from Cornwall, England, to St. John's, Newfoundland, triggered the concept of broadcasting the starting point of the vast development of telecommunications. Wireless telegraphy became wireless telephony, the voice radio of today. Pittsburgh's pioneer station, KDKA, broadcast the 1920 election returns and commercial radio was born. I relished those moments when students would not only react with utter astonishment at the shortsightedness of some previous era, but would also wonder aloud whether they too might be missing out

—

on some possibilities in their own lives. From the podium where I stood, I could see lightbulbs turning on as these young people asked themselves, "What if I am overlooking an opportunity right now?" "What

problem can be turned into something positive?" Every one of us can ask these questions. In ways large or small, each positive answer has the potential to change the world. It starts with an open mind and if

DAN MORRIS CNS Columnist

City to rig two U.S. ships to report the

a

the willingness to ask,

"What

if...

?"

Father Thomas J. McSweemy is director ofThe Christoplwrs.

Endless possibilities for your holiday turkey carcasses unnamed wag on the Internet recently claimed that Martha Stewart's December to-do list included blanching the

An

Thanksgiving turkey carcass, spray-painting it gold, turning it upside down and using it as a "sleigh" to hold Christmas cards. This not only made me regret we already had disposed of our turkey carcass, it put me to wondering how many other bets we might be missing for that carcass. I do recall a Cub Scout den whose members blanched their families' turkey carcasses, painted them mostly black, then fitted them with little paper sails that created pretty spiffy replicas of a mythical pirate ship. Yes,

I

know what you

are thinking. Outfit-

would make a "Nightmare on Elm Street" infamy) mask. Or a hockey goalie mask. Or a ''Man in the Iron Turkey Carcass" mask. Turned hollow-side down and adorned with a large plume, the carcass could work as a Robin Hood cap. Or you could leave off" the feather, Roman foot-solpaint it bronze and presto ted with a headband, a carcass

dandy Freddy Kreuger

(of

—

dier helmet. I

Was one road-to-Emmaus disciple a woman? Q. My husband and I have a question about the disciples

who met

Jesus on the road to

Emmaus and

Question

Glue, cover with "sparklies" and use as earrings. However, a couple of wishbones might be nice in

two

Corner

ate

this regard.

Don't worry. I am not going to go into a complete turkey skeleton accessory kick. Yet again, the vertebrae could be strung into a unique necklace. Speaking of which, you could mount a carcass on your bedroom wall for a jewelry rack or

with him (Lk 24:13-35). Could they have been husband

and wife? Cleopas,

It

is

appears they shared a home.

One of them,

a man, but his companion's gender

indicated. Is thei-e

any Catholic tradition

to

is

not

shed light on

this?

FATHER JOHN DIETZEN A. There

no tradition exactly, but the possibility you mention has been raised often. You offer one reason. Another, perhaps stronger, is the statement in the Gospel according to John (19:25) that among the women standing by the cross of Jesus was the wife of Clopas same name but different form as the man described in Luke. Both Gospels seem to assume the name would be recognized by other disciples. And John would likely have been familiar with the story in Luke's Gospel, is

—

written a

number of years

earlier.

Naturally, we cannot know for sure. But there appears to be some likelihood that the two disciples on the road were husband and wife, both close to our Lord, who had suffered a devastating loss (so they

supposed) in the death on Calvary and were sadly heading back home.

now

Missing Mass wliile on vacation Q. Is it a serious sin if we miss Mass while traveling on vacation? With the shortage of priests and limited schedules, it is not always possible to attend Mass in a strange

city.

CNS Columnist

A. As we know, the responsibility to participate Eucharist on days of obligation is a serious one. But there are situations which excuse us from in the

obligation seriously and

fulfills

it

Mass because of a good conscience.

wise, and misses

Most

Catholics have,

about such matters. less certain

I

Some

faithfully other-

pleasure

I

can

cass as a colander.

Actually,

I

think

my

neighbor. Bud, uses a

carcass as a swim-through toy in his aquarium.

Place'one on the back of your commode and with cute little soaps in the shapes of farm animals? Hold one up to your ear and listen for the sound of the Thanksgiving Day football games? Place one carcass on another, install fancy little wheels, paint brightly and you have

—

fill

—

Cinderella's carriage.

Sew

a bean

you have

a

bag into the carcass cavern and

Turkey

Beanie.

Clearly, the possibilities are endless. I'm

surprised the

ing

Turkey Organization

panic run on turkey carcasses.

Martha on

be sent to Father

325, Peoria, III 61651.

It

might be wise

this.

Tour comments are welcome always. Please to Uncle Dan, 6363 Christie Ave. No.

send them

222, Emeryville, Calif. 94608.

may

Market-

good sense

have learned, are

and maybe need to be reassured.

Questions

for

(TOM) hasn't jumped on this. On the other hand, we don't want to create a

to consult

believe, innate

others,

trip,

that obligation.

needs to be noted first of all that it is not proper to limit these to impossible circumstances. If I'm confined to bed with a broken leg, or if I simply cannot sit through Mass because of a physical or

hanging ties. Or hats. Or exercise clothes. Duct tape a carcass at the end of a long pole and use it for an offering basket at church. A lot of the loose change might fall through though. In a pinch, I'll bet you could employ a carfor

emotional impairment, I am not "excused." The obligation just ceases to exist, since one is never obligated to do something which is impossible. Theologians traditionally teach that an excusing cause for the Sunday Mass obligation should be "moderately serious" ("mediocriter gravis"), a reason sufficient, for example, to put aside urgent business of some importance. Numerous examples are given involving considerable inconvenience or significant material or spiritual harm to oneself or others. Obviously, no complete list is possible. It comes down finally to individual judgment, keeping in mind the seriousness of the obligation and the central importance of the Eucharist in Catholic life. Interestingly, vacation travel is one excusing cause nearly always mentioned. One who takes this

surely do so in

It

suppose most of the carcasses would be too

large to slice lengthwise, douse with Elmer's

John Dietzen at Box


The Catholic News & Herald

6

People

December

ihe News

in

Sister Peter Claver Fahy to receive 1998 Povereiio Medal STEUBENVILLE, Ohio (CNS)

—

Sister Peter Claver Fahy,

who

has

ministering to the poor, the impris-

oned and the neglected, will receive Franciscan University of the Steubenville's highest award, the Povereiio Medal, on Dec. 8. "Throughout her life she has demonstrated a St. Francis-like charity and has brought healing, strength and empowerment to thousands of God's little ones," said Franciscan Father

—

The

and peace "was a text for

—

president of the Democratic Republic of the Congo discussed the ongoing conII

war

its

ing to one of its principal drafters. FaJ. Bryan Hehir, professor of the

ther

practice of religion and society at

Harvard University's Divinity School, delivered the inaugural Bernardin Lecture Nov. 1 8 at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. Father Hehir and the late Cardinal Joseph L. Bernardin of Chicago helped write the U.S. bishops' pastoral letter on nuclear disarmament, "The Challenge of

when

Peace," written in the days

the

United States and Soviet Union were opposing superpowers locked in a epic nuclear arms race.

CNS

Oklahoma

On Nov. 6, after three years of study and training, Peter was ordained a deacon by Archbishop Eusebius J. Beltran of Oklahoma City. Paolo, meanwhile, is studying to become a priest of the Oklahoma City Archdiocese. He began his first year of theology at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in Pennsylvania this fall, moving from Conception Seminary College in Missouri. idea of ordained ministry five years ago.

who

degree Nov. 23 by Jesuit-run Fordham University in New York. Fordham honored Hume as one "whose voice through three decades of conflict re-

in

La Crosse. He was to be enthe Blessed Sacrament

in

Chapel of the Cathedral of St. Joseph the Workman in La Crosse following his funeral Mass there Dec. 7. A bishop since 1957 and head of the La Crosse Diocese from 1965 until he retired in 1983, Bishop Freking was among the

who

attended all four sessions of the Second Vatican Council in the bishops 1960s.

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tombed

Navarro-Valls said that in addition to the pope, Kabila met Cardinal Angelo Sodano, the Vatican's secretary of state, and Archbishop Jean-Louis Tauran, re-

, Northern Ireland's Hume given honorary degree by Fordham YORK (CNS) John Hume, the Northern Ireland Catholic leader

Center

PHOTO BY Jennifer Leirer, Sooner Catholic

son explore ordained ministry together A dream they first had in 1993 is halfway to becoming reality for Peter and Paolo Dulcamara. The father and son duo, pictured here with a family member, who attend Holy Family Church in Lawton, first considered the father,

Retired Bishop Freking of La Crosse, Wis., dies at 85 LA CROSSE, Wis. (CNS) Retired La Crosse Bishop Frederick W.

—

country with Pope John Paul and Vatican officials. During his first official European visit since taking power last year, Congolese President Laurent Kabila met Italian and Vatican officials Nov. 22-24 before heading to Belgium and to Paris for a French-African summit. In a statement released Nov. 24, Vatican spokesman Joaquin flict in his

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December

1998

4,

The Catholic News & Herald 7

from the Cover

Pope says 1999 should begin pilgrimage of sharing, dialogue By CINDY

WOODEN

truth that salvation

comes through

— The

Christ and inviting them to join the journey toward eternal happiness.

final

year of preparation for the Holy Year 2000 should mark the beginning of a pilgrimage of charity, of sharing with the poor and of dialogue with all

The pope said Christians are filled with hope by the knowledge that Christ, who was born in Bethlehem and died and rose in Jerusalem, will

Pope John Paul II said. Celebrating Mass Nov. 29, the first Sunday of Advent, the pope said the Catholic Church's focus on God the Father over the coming year should emphasize that all people are children of God and, therefore, brothers and sisters.

come again

News

Service

VATICAN CITY

(CNS)

Catholic

people,

"The God who comes

we have been

the one

to

meet us

is

seeking, or the

one we have ignored or the one we even have been avoiding," the pope said during his homily in St. Peter's Basilica.

"He comes to meet us with open arms like a loving and merciful Father,"

he

said.

God

leads everyone

on

a

journey

to him, but he does not call people to

pope

travel alone, the

said.

"We make it with

all

those

who are

God."

a part of the family of

to establish his

kingdom

and give eternal life to all believers. "Without this prospect," he said, "our existence would be reduced to living in order to die." During his Angelus address after Mass, Pope John Paul invited all Catholics "to undertake an interior pilgrimage toward the house of our heavenly Father, who is rich in mercy; it is a journey of conversion in charity, in sharing with the poorest and in dialogue with our brothers and sisters." The best opportunities most Catholics have to exercise their missionary responsibilities of proclaiming Christ and helping others come about at work, he said. Pope John Paul announced that on the Dec. 8 feast of the Immaculate Conception he would release a letter to the people of the Diocese of Rome on the Gospel and the workplace.

Because all people are brothers and and part of the same family, they must learn to seek each other's support and offer one another help, he said. Sometimes, the pope said, helping others means sharing with them the

In preparation for the jubilee year,

sisters

Photo courtesy of Holy Cross Parish

Respect

Life

Monument Dedicated

Bishop William G. Curlin presided over the recent dedication of the Respect Life Garden at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Kemersville. The garden, which includes a rosary walk, statue of Mary and monument to the unborn, is the result of the efforts of the Kernersville church's Knights of Columbus, Columbiettes and parish council. Parishioners raised funds through memorials to their loved ones. The garden is dedicated to Father Thomas Fitzpatrick, OSFS, former pastor, for his contributions to the parish.

Indulgences, from pages difficulty

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8

The Catholic News & Herald

December

Nha Tho Thanh Giu$e

The 300-seat church center for the Catholics

in

will

serve as a cultural

some 1,500 Vietnamese

the Charlotte area, as well as

the locality's greater Vietnamese population of close to 10,000.

Ministry to Vietnamese immigrants

developed with the

in

the diocese during the '80s,

community gathering at Our Lady

of Consolation, Our Lady of the

Assumption and

St.

Ann Catholic

churches for Mass through the years.

The dedication was a visual pageant, featuring native Vietnamese dress,

music and expression of worship. Wide-eyed children peered around parents for glimpses of the procession into the church. Smiling

men and

women donned traditional costumes J

L

of celebration.

Photos by Joann Keane

4,

1998


The Catholic News & Herald 9

Nha Tho Thanh Giuse

Celebrating faith and culture Vietnamese community's

dream

realized at dedication By

JIMMY ROSTAR

Associate Editor

CHARLOTTE

ese 16,

—

The VietnamYear will be celebrated Feb. 1999. But the Vietnamese Catholic

New

community of Charlotte commemorated a beginning of

its

with a Mass dedicating

own Nov. its

29,

new church

and cultural center.

"Today I officially install you as a community of faith in the wider community of the whole diocese," said Bishop William G. Curlin to those

in

attendance. "I come to consecrate your altar and dedicate your church. In doing this, I affirm and honor you as a very special, holy people of God," added the

bishop, who celebrated the Mass with diocesan and guest clergy, including

Father

Tan Van

Le, the community's

chaplain.

The

During his homily. Bishop the Curlin applauded community's perseverance and noted its tried history under Communist rule in Vietnam. "I have never met one community of faith that has suffered so

much

for

you have," he have borne said. "Many of you personal witness in your sufferings to your faith in Jesus Christ. "Some of you who have suffered in your homeland know that your churches were destroyed but they our Catholic

faith as

...

...

couldn't destroy Jesus in you."

Prior to their coming to Charlotte in search of jobs and religious freedom, most of the members of the Vietnamese Catholic

community were imprisoned

for

Father Le, who has served as chaplain of the St. Joseph community since midtheir beliefs, explained

1993.

Through worldwide humanitarian efforts and sponsorships

dedication Mass and festiviattended by some 2,500 people, crystallized a dream almost 20 years in

from American individuals and

the making.

opportunities to

The liturgy highlighted two days of celebrating the dedication of St. Joseph Vietnamese Catholic Church, located on Sandy Porter Road in southwest Mecklenburg County. Youth ac-

lina.

ties,

organizations, including Catholic Social Services,

Vietnamese received to North Caro-

come

Several Catholic families settled

tivities,

the sacrament of reconciliation

meeting from time to time for Mass. The Vietnamese Catholic community numbered about 20 families in May 1981, when St. Joseph was chosen by

and

Mass honoring Vietnamese

them

a

added to the weekend occasion. dedication was a visual pageant, featuring native Vietnamese dress, music and expression of worship. Wide-eyed children peered around parents for glimpses of the procession into the church. Smiling men and women donned traditional costumes of celebration. Balloons, banners, and the clear, blue sky accentusaints

The

ated the din of excitement.

in Charlotte in the early 1980s,

as their patron.

By

1988, the

com-

munity was 400 strong and growing. Ministry to Vietnamese immigrants developed in the diocese during

community gatherOur Lady of Consolation, Our

the '80s, with the

ing at

Lady of the Assumption and St. Ann Catholic churches for Mass through the years.

Through

a diocesan sponsorship.

Father Le arrived in 1993 from the Vihn Long Diocese in Vietnam, a diocese of some 300,000 Catholics south of Ho Chi Minh City. In September 1994, the St. Joseph

commu-

and the surrounding property. The Mass was celebrated Aug. 30. "With all the members of the St. Joseph community, in the spirit of first

thanksgiving, I am truly thankful to all of you for your wonderful support, sacrifice,

(and) spiritual and financial contri-

make work possible," said Father Le in closing comments during the Mass. Addressing the community. Father Le said, "Brothers and sisters in Christ, as we are living far away from butions during the past years to this

our native land, please come together with love, hope and faith in a brilliant future where we constantly reserve and develop our culture. "We also do not forget to pray for our loved ones, relatives and friends who are still living in Vietnam. pray that they may have freedom to worship God in peace and prosperity." The 300-seat church will serve as

We

a cultural center for the

Vietnamese Catholics

some 1,500

in the

Charlotte

began meeting weekly for Mass and

area, as well as the locality's greater

other activities at Ann Church.

10,000.

nity

"It's

been

a

St.

long

journey for them, both culturally and religiously, to bring this all together," said Msgr. Richard Allen, pastor of St. Ann Church. "The pride they have in this place is very evident of they

Vietnamese population of close to Masses are celebrated

in

Vietnam-

ese each Saturday at 6 p.m., and Sundays at 9 and 1 1 a.m. Vietnamese lan-

guage classes are taught to children; catechism classes in Vietnamese and English are offered to both children and

adults.

Future plans include Masses in English, and expanded educational and cultural activities, t

way they

way they Their

live, they celebrate.

faith is so deep."

May

1995, the

The Vietnamese Catholic

community

received from the

community numbered about

In

permission

bishop to build its own church. Almost three years of enthusiastic fund-raising activities ensued, and in February 1998, the community purchased the former Steele Creek Baptist Church, a nearby house

20 families in IVlay 1981, when St. Joseph was chosen by them as their patron. By

1988, the community was

400

strong and growing.


10 The Catholic News & Herald

December

Readings

4,

1998

Book Review

Book draws powerful conclusions about

Word to Life

affirmative action in higher education Reviewed by PATRICIA A.

News

Catholic

The former

McGUIRE

long economic and social achievements of the black graduates of the 28

Service

presidents of Harvard

and Princeton have written

highly selective schools are significantly higher than graduates of all races of other colleges and universities. Critics of this study claim that the cause and effect are not so clear. The authors admit that the prestige of these schools may affect the outcomes. The authors remark, "The college or university that a student attends is a much better predictor of the odds of graduating than is the student's own SAT score." Inadvertently and most unfortunately, such reasoning casts many other excellent colleges and universities in an unfavorable light. Bowen and Bok make a compelling

a boolt

with serious ramifications for CathoHc

—

higher education even though Derek Bok and WiUiam Bowen barely mention any Catholic institutions in "The Shape of the River: Long-Term Consequences of Considering Race in College and University Admissions."

The

notable absence of Catholic col-

leges from this study exposes

,

fun-

its

damental flaw: Bowen and Bok draw powerful conclusions about the effectiveness of affirmative action in higher education based on a 30-year Mellon Foundation study of the graduates of only 28 colleges and universities the 28 institutions considered to be the most elite in the country. There's not a Catholic college among them. When will Catholic higher education make a similarly compelling case for our access and impact on minority popula-

—

case for affirmative action. time, this

on the effectiveness those sectors of higher education whose service in the name of educational access, justice and equity have been great

make works

—

historically black col-

women's colleges; and Catholic Such institutions have centu-

leges

Bok's data

cries out for follow-up

studies focusing

tions?

Bowen and

book

At the same

colleges.

it

in

ries-old track records of success in

the 28 schools studied. Paradoxically,

educating precisely the people who were formerly excluded in the Ivy League long before "affirmative action" forced open those ivy-covered

clear that affirmative action

affirmative action works in these schools because of their elitism. The graduates of these 28 schools enjoy

—

economic and social benefits that almost no other cohort group can hope

walls in

t

is president of Trinity ColWashington and is a frequent writer and commentator on topics in Catholic education and higher education.

Isaiah 11: 1-10

1)

Psalm 3)

By

God's holy mountain when "the wolf shall be a guest of the lamb, and the

1-12

leopard shall lie down with the kid". It's an idyllic scene often depicted on

My parents' small farm in England could look quite lovely on a sunny summer's day. Seeing sheep lying in the apple orchard, the geese resting peaceably by the pond and the dog stretched out in the warm "What

would often exclaim:

a little Eden!

thought so much about those when reflecting on today's

Scriptures. Isaiah sees a vision of

4-9

BOZENA CLOUTIER

sun, visitors

I

times

72:2, 7-8, 12-13, 17

Romans 15: Matthew 3:

2)

heartache.

How

We

Christmas cards. yearn for that kind of harmony in nature, in the world, perhaps most of all in our own lives. Yes, it will come, but it won't just magically happen. Radical changes will have to be made first.

"Reform your Baptist, "give

beautiful

mean

this is!"

What few saw were the other days, What

that

you

Re-forming, re-shaping our lives is dilficult. It is

even fewer understood was the radical change my parents had made to take up farming in their middle years. The aftermath of World War II

cipitates such

often crisis that pre-

change and forces us

to

do something or go somewhere we'd rather not.

had made them stateless and poor. My father's professional job was winding down, and there were five

They borrowed

money where they

says John the

to reform."

the ones that were not sunny.

children to raise.

lives,"

some evidence

could and bought a small, run-down farm. At one time my mother ran a large household with servants. Now she was in a farmhouse with no electricity, modern plumbing or telephone. The ensuing years were full of hard work, money worries and often

Paul may have had this in mind when writing to the Romans that "the lessons of patience and words of encouragement in the Scriptures" are to give us hope and perserverence at

those times.

But there are glimpses of God's holy mountain in that process. parents did indeed have some sunny days on the farm, and one of my cherished memories is of them sitting on a bench in the blossoming apple orchard.

My

lege in

beneficiaries of the affirmative action

who

& Co.

McGuire

same certainty. Although black students (the principal to attain ^ith the

policies studied)

Cambridge

December 6, Second Sunday of Advent, Cycle A. Readings:

gain admission on average,

to these institutions have,

lower SAT scores and weaker academic preparation than their white

"The Shape of the River: Longterm Consequences of Considering Race in College and University Admissions," by William G. Bowen and Derek Bok. Princeton University Press

counterparts, the black students persist and graduate at far higher levels than black or white students at less

(Princeton, N.J., 1998). 472 pp. $24.95.

selective schools. Similarly, the life-

Weekly Scripture Readings for the week of Dec. 6 - 12, 1998 Sunday, Isaiah 11:1-10, Romans 15:4-9, Matthew 3:1-12; Monday, Isaiah 35:1-10, Luke 5:17-26; Tuesday, Genesis 3:9-15,20, Ephesians 1:3-6,11-12, Luke 1:26-38; Wednesday, Isaiah 40:25-31, Matthew 11:28-30; Thursday, Matthew

Isaiah 41:13-20, 19;

11:11-15;

Saturday, Zechariah 2:14-17,

Friday, Isaiah 48:17-19, Matthew 11:168:28-30, Luke 2:15-19

Romans

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December

The Catholic News & Herald 11

1998

4,

tntertainment

"Hie Rugrats Movie" teaches lessons of loyalty, friendship By GERRI pare News Service

Catholic

NEW YORK

(CNS)

—

age to miss the missing kids practiunder their noses. Some of the scenes are momentarily menacing but would-be disasters always seem to right themselves before

cally

"The

Rugrats Movie" (Paramount) has the tiny tykes of the popular

TV

series

—

and bouncing onto the big screen landing on their feet. The animated children's TV series that airs on cable's Nickelodeon channel centers on toddlers Tommy Pickles (voice of E.G. Daily), his best buddy Chuckle (Christine Cavanaugh), twins Lil and Phil (Kath Soucie), and slightly older, bossier Angelica (Cheryl Chase). As life is seen from a pint-size point of view, their respective parents are strictly second bananas in the scheme

the small fry in the audience would

have time to be truly frightened. And there is a genuine sweetness in the movie's message to love your siblings even if they are bothersome. A skimpy baby blanket becomes the means for Tommy and Dil to get close, so to speak, and share some brotherly love. The mediocre production values look more budgeted to TV than the big screen, but with such a large, presold audience, it probably wasn't necessary to put "The Rugrats Movie" on the lush scale of a Disney production.

of things.

For the movie, however, directors Norton Virgien and Igor Kovalyov orchestrate a blessed event for Ma and Pa Pickles (Melanie ChartofF and Jack Riley) the arrival of baby brother Dylan (Tara Charendoff). When your last name is Pickles, your nickname

CNS

Stu,

Tommy,

PHOTO FROM Paramount Pictures

Didi, Chuckie, Angelica, Phil, Lil and Spike are the

main

characters in the animated film, "The Rugrats Movie," featuring toddlers and babies who communicate among themselves. The film's U.S. Catholic Conference classification is A-I general patronage. The Motion Picture

—

—

Association of America rating

is

G — general

audiences.

coming from what one assumes

perspective that allows their differing

since Dil's such a crybaby, they will

personalities to

simply return him to what they think is the baby store where his parents

Overall it proves a peppy tale that ends up teaching lessons about loyalty and friendship, and watching over little ones in the family who can't yet help themselves. By movie's end Tommy has proven himself a real big brother to lil Dil. One of the brief sight gags errs on the tasteless side, however, as the toddlers crawl into the hospital nursery and look up to see arcs of watery spray

pick

him

big bad wolf

The animation

ceptional; the appeal of the

undiapered male infants. A few sparse musical numbers pro-

how it is

vide relief from the none-too-original

series) is

up.

Soon the toddlers are all off and running, actually riding in Pa's newly invented Reptar Wagon, with Angelica in hot pursuit since baby Dil is clutching her favorite dolly. A scary forest is between them and their hospital destination and in it are escaped performing circus monkeys and a

—

are

cute but not ex-

is

movie (and shot from a toddler's

come

to the forefront.

terrors of the forest as worried parents gather and a pair of park rangers man-

release, there al-

U.S. Catholic Conference is A-I general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is general audiT ences.

—

classification

Except Dil's no thrill once he's home from the hospital, squawking and spitting up and preoccupying Tommy's once attentive parents. The twins come up with a radical solution;

its

fast track.

The

just has to be Dil.

went to

Indeed, before

ready were firm plans for a sequel, and the movie's strong opening weekend will only put the next adventure on the

G—

Pare

is

on the

staff' of the

Conference Officefor Film

U.S. Catholic

and Broadcasting.

TV programs of note NEW YORK (CNS) — Here are some programs of note for the week on Dec.

6:

Monday, Dec. 7, 8-10 p.m. EST (NBC) "A Champion's Fight: A Moment of Truth Movie." Fact-based drama in which a high school girl (Katie Harrod) defies her mother (Beth Broderick) by refusing to attend a prominent school in order to stand by her gravely ill boyfriend (Scott Vickyrous). Tuesday, Dec. 8, 9-11 p.m. EST (CBS) "Christmas in My Hometown." Rebroadcast of a drama in which a corporate downsizer (Tim Matheson) comes to a small town whose tractor company he plans to close only to fall for a young woman (Melissa Gilbert) whose entire family is employed in the doomed factory. One AmazWednesday, Dec. 9, 8-9 p.m. EST (PBS) "Burt Bacharach ing Night." Special highlights the composer's array of popular hits, arranged and conducted by him, with performances by Dionne Warwick, Sheryl Crow, All Saints, Elvis Costello, Wynonna Judd and Luther Vandross.

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12 The Catholic News & Herald

Tape of sacramental confession to remain intact By ED LANGLOIS Catholic News Service EUGENE, Ore. (CNS)

made

se-

tape recording of a jail-

house confession could remain intact for a decade until the conclusion of a capital

punishment appeal.

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December

The Catholic News & Herald 13

1998

4,

Christmas

Books make great Reviewed by

AND

MARGARET KRAUSE BARB FRAZE

WASHINGTON

(CNS)

—

gifts for children

knowing adult figures out his mind works differently than most kids'.

The

(Ages 9-13)

for

Christmas gift-giving.

"Our Earth," written and illusAnne Rockwell. Harcourt

trated by

"Can You Find Bible Heroes?" by Philip D. Gallery, illustrated by Janet L. Harlow. St. Anthony Messenger Press (Cincinnati, 1998), 40 pp.,

Brace (San Diego, 1998), 24 pp, $13. When young children ask about the world in which they live, this book can provide some simple lessons in ge.ography. Anne Rockwell introduces the youngest readers to arid deserts,

$15.95.

dark caves, colorful rain forests, snowcapped mountains and the formation of rivers. Its bright illustrations and simple text make this a captivating book for the earliest of minds. (Ages 2-6)

busy illustrations. The men and women of the Old Testament are hid-

"How

Dyslexic Benny Became a

Star," by Joe Griffith. (Dallas, 1998).

1

Yorktown Press

13 pp., $12.95.

Although this book is billed as "a story of hope for dyslexic children and their parents," it makes good reading for anyone. Children will

understand

Benny's feelings of frustration and shame and appreciate his accomplishments on the football field once a

complete with large

Olivia's antics,

pastel illustrations, will appeal espe-

following books for children are rec-

ommended

ways to make herself seem eligible, but to no avail. This humorous look at

Modeled after the popular "Where's Waldo?" publications, this clever book introduces children to the most familiar Bible stories and asks them to locate the Bible heroes in very

den throughout the pictures, as are 10 symbols of God's love, including a lamb, a dove and the Ten Commandments. This format is an entertaining

way

cially to children

The Lost Tooth

of

Club age. (Ages 5-8) "All God's Children," selected by Lee Bennett Hopkins, illustrated by Amanda Schaffer. Harcourt Brace (San Diego, 1998), 48 pp, $15. This collection of prayers compiled by Lee Bennett Hopkins focuses on God's love for his children. The prayers are simple and understandable,

making this

a perfect resource for

parents introducing their children to prayer.

Amanda

SchafiFer's

illustra-

"Quomodo

Nomine Natalem Abrogaverit," a Doctore Seuss. Bolchazy-Carducci Publishers (Wauconda, 111., 1998). 56 pp.,

tions add vibrancy and dimension to

Grinchus

each page. Ages 3-10.

to keep children's interest while

them about Creation, Noah's Ark and much more. Ages 4-10. also teaching

"The Lost Tooth Club," by Arden Johnson. Tricycle Press (Berkeley, Calif, 1998).

33

The

Lost Tooth Club, but she hasn't lost a tooth. She thinks of several clever

Quality

Personal

Citizens (Mill Valley, Calif,

$22.50 hard cover, $16.95 paperback. Any Latin lover will immediately recognize in this title the perennial Dr. Seuss favorite, "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." This translation of a children's classic, complete with the original illustrations, is superbly done and makes Latin fun. With a full vocabulary in the back to help learners, it is sure to be a hit among students who have a year or two of Latin "sub cingulo" (under their belt). Ages 12-up

1998). 345 pp., $16.95 hardcover, $14.95 paperback.

MacBurnie King

not your typithis is not a typical teen-age novel. When she loses contact with a child she sponsored, MacBurnie travels to India to search for him a story twist the author executes in a plausible manner. This book will be a cultural eye-opener for many. It combines adventure, romance and social conscience without being preachy. (Ages 13-up). cal 16-year-old girl,

pp., $13.95.

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attached to steps (not

•

a Will that works, contact

Jim Kelley, Diocese of Charlotte, Office of Development, 1123 South Church St., Charlotte, NC 28203, (704) 370-3301

its

Frank LaPointe, President

Member of St.

Gabriel Church

HYUNDAI 4100

E.

Independence

531-3140

Blvd.


14 The Catholic News & Herald

December

the News

In

4,

1998

laws governing the appropriate when warranted as legal."

sal

School-Protest,

use of force

from page 1

is

Army

officials also

say the school

regularly inspected as part of the

Army's Command Inspection Proresponsible for the growth of

democ-

gram, and that a board of governors, made up of "academicians, general officers, human rights experts and am-

racy in Latin America, said officials tried a different tactic this year hoping to change the approach "on both sides of this issue." This is the ninth year that opponents of the school have called for its

bassadors," oversee curriculum, train-

ing and administration.

However, one former military ofand now protester disagrees with the Army's assessment. Retired Maj. Joseph Blair, a former instructor at SOA and now a critic of the school, said manuals were used which recomficer

The annual vigil began in 1990 as a commemoration of the 1989 massacre of six Jesuits priests, their housekeeper and her daughter, and participation has grown from a handclosure.

of participants to this year's 7,000, a figure reported by organizers and confirmed by local police. "I think it's an important way to achieve social justice in Latin America," said Justo German Castro

mended techniques of tion,

ful

Lux of

the protest. "Maintaining this

toward achieving military forces promote genocide and ethnocide in our counschool

is

a barrier

Asked what motivated him to become an outspoken critic of the school,

tries."

Lux is an immigrant from Guatecurrently working in mala Morganton as a Glenmary Co-

He was among

missioner.

a

group of

Co-missioners from Morganton

who

participated in the gathering.

Other North Carolina protesters the Charlotte area, the Triangle and elsewhere. Four Sisters of Mercy of North Carolina and a Mercy Associate

from Belmont joined more than 40 Mercy sisters and associates from throughout the country. "The people of Central America have suffered too much in the past 30 years from the politics of terror conceived and implemented by the graduates of this (SOA) program," said Sister

Mercy Elizabeth McMillian, who

'You are not our enemies, you are our brothers and sisters. Join us as we close the School of the Americas,"' said Jesuit Father John Dear, the director of Fellowship of Reconciliation, the oldest interfaith peace organization in the United States. He has been arrested and jailed for many peace-related causes.

In response to criticism of the

and ministers

repeatedly labeled as "absolutely false" the accusations that it teaches torture

the

and murder. "The school teaches U.S. doctrine which is based on over 200 years of success," according to an

SOA

murdered the

protest, speakers

)

"I

say to

SOA

all

the CIA,

all

workers

,A Piece

Heaven,

all

their lists, critics fre-

ther Bourgeois said at the vigil at Fort

quently layer names of all superiors in the chain of command to those who may have been directly involved," the Army said. "Of these 300, only 20 have been tried and convicted by their nation's judicial system." The Army maintains that training at the school "is based on U.S. Army doctrine which complies with univer-

Benning. "The decision makers in Washington must pay attention to when the people speak with such a de-

SOA

who human rights "To pad 60,000

cisive voice."

Contributing

Middeke,

Jimmy

to this story

Rostar,

Mays.

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violations.

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was narrowly defeated in the House of Representatives in September by a 2 1 to 20 1 vote. "This is an historic moment," Fa-

have a list graduates out of almost are supposedly linked to said critics

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The Army

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Army

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and organizers said they had no fight with the military, they just wanted to

SOA

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facility.

the

Bob Roller

A

Honduras. The Sisters of Mercy of the Americas issued a statement Nov. 17 calling on the U.S. government to close the

lives

BY

Actor Martin Sheen, second from left, and Franciscan Sister Jackie Doepker, third from left, lead 7,000 people who protested Nov. 22 to press for the closing of the U.S. Army School of the Americas in Columbus, Ga.

traveled from the Triad, mountains,

of

"I finally got fed up with and distortions." He cited the murders of the Jesuits, saying, "Three of my former students

Blair replied, CNS PHOTO

The

this.

torture, execublackmail and intimidation.

Catholic Social Services, Diocese of Charlotte

HANDS

1

123 South Church

St.,

Charlotte,

For information and materials

call

NC 28203-4003 l-800-685-~372

were Rafe

and Deirdre

C.


December

4,

1998

'House of prayer'

formation, vocations office

The bishop said the new house of formation will be especially important to the "transplants" among the new seminarians. "They know very little about the area where we minister and preach the Gospel." Of the 33 men in various stages of formation for the diocese, only four are native North Carolinians. The 33 men represent four different continents: Europe, Asia, South America and North America. The house of formation is the result of about two years of study. When

JOHN strange NC Catholic RALEIGH The Diocese By

—

of Raannounced the establishment

of the Father Price House of Formation in Chapel Hill, a move that may forever change the

way

a

man becomes

a priest in the diocese.

Father Michael Clay, pastor of St.

Thomas More Church in- Chapel Hill, was named the director of clergy formation and of the new facility, which will be located in the old St. Thomas More Church buildings on Gimghoul Road. Father Ned Shlesinger, pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Newton Grove, was named assistant vocations

the St.

the

new facility. The committee was chaired by Fa-

mas Davis, John Ranalli, Thomas Tully, Tim O'Connor and James Labosky. Other members included Immaculate Heart of Mary Sister Carol Loughney, John Riedy, then chancellor of the diocese; George Lensing, and Philip and Lucia Stadter. "The need was affirmed," Father Lewis said. "We looked around the diocese, and there was no place that

vicar general of the diocese. "Bishop felt

a

ther Paul Byron, and included Fathers Lewis and Clay, Phillip Leach, Tho-

North Carolina. "It will be a house of prayer, a house of study, a house of community and living," said Father Gerald Lewis, to

has long

Bishop

committee to determine whether a house of formation was needed, and where to locate

studying to be a priest for the diocese,

Gossman

Street,

Gossman appointed

will be a headquarters of sorts for those

(Joseph)

Carmichael

on

and will be primarily responsible for promotion. The new house of formation, expected to open officially in July of 1999,

new

Thomas More parish began to its move to its new home

prepare for

director,

especially those

a need

for a place for seminarians to begin

environment in our local diocese." "Spiritual formation is in my opinion the most important aspect of priestly formation," said Bishop

their formation in an

presented all the opportunities for study and spiritual nourishment. It was determined that a house of forma-

Gossman. "Education is important, but formation is even more important."

would

tion in another location

way

learns about the

The Chapel

Hill location has sev-

eral strengths, he said. It

located

is

near four major universities: the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, Duke and North Carolina Central in Durham, and North Carolina State

Chapel Hill is also central itself, allowing seminarians the opportunity to explore the state and see the diocese's various parin Raleigh.

to the state

ishes. It

is

also located within the Tri-

angle area, and the state's museums and other cultural opportunities. In addition, he said, the rectory can handle 10 residents with little or

no renovations. The church's nave

Turn- key and Professional Solutions

seminarians' chapel.

Seminary would then follow, as before. Father Lewis said that the Catholic church of North Carolina is unique

When facility

was was speculated that the

the house committee

formed,

first

it

(336)

275-8274

Institutions

la

Daycares

IB

Chmches

!B

Sales Offices

In the future,

thought will be given to other areas of formation, but for now, our primary focus is on the seminarians."

The

new house of many changes

establishment of a

formation wall Ukely lead to

In priestiy forfnation in the diocese.

program

Master's degree

in

educational administration or

•

Freelance Writers/Photographers: The Catholic is seeking an experienced freelancers to assist with its publication in the Hickory/ Morganton/Newton area. Candidates should have professional writing/photography experience and be familiar with Associated Press style. Contact The

o\ erseeing

keeping with

(and photography samples) to: Staff Writer Position, P.O. Box ,37267, Charlotte, 28237 or e-mail,

vision of Catholic education. Therefore, the ap-

jskeane@charlottediocese.org. Position available

Choir Director/Liturgist:

December

Church, a parish of 1800 families,

a

aspects of school

life in

plication<-niust be a practicing Catholic, hold a

Gifts,

Creches

Catholic

NC

News &

Herald, P.O.

Box 37267,

Charlotte,

28237 or Jskeane@charlottediocese.org

Resources Clerk: Part-time

Chailotte.

Ut

9:30am

-

NC 28205

tS7S

5:30pm 3:00pm -

Serving The Carolinas For 17 Years

oj St. f.awratce parish

December 18 to: Rev. Mr. Curtiss P. Todd, Vice Chancellor, Catholic Pastoral Center, 123 South Church St., Charlotte, NC 28203.

1,999.

community of 2.500 families, located in Richmond, Virginia. The Principal is responsible tor all

&

(800) 520-8511

lic

1,

priests will

Special Mai I Orders Welcome

skills.

August

part of St. Bridget's parish, a Catho-

Our

a

Sat.

Knowledge of Catholicism. Must be available North Carolina. Good benefits package. Send resume, non-returnable clips

is

depth, not just time.

Debt Consoudation Lower Monthly Payments Cash Out

to travel within "Western

school

stu-

invites applications for

the position of Principal starting

The

this.

candidates."

important enough for We're looking to add

(704)

rable.

28226.

l^.'i

do

us to

away some

is

Mon.-Fri. 9:30am

Human

Director of Development and Alumni: Needed beginning January \999. Please .send resume and request for application to Cliarlotte Catholie High School, 7702 Pineville-Matthews Road, Charlotte,

8,

scare

"But this

"

Staff Writer: The Catholic News & Herald seeks a staff writer with the ability to move easily between news and poignant feature writing. Successful candidate will aLso possess photography skills, understanding of AP style, e.xperienee in a PC windows environment, and a degree in journalism, or compa-

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

Bridget's School, serving

"may

Christmas Cards,

News & Herald

fielcl,

may add one

that the house of formation

or two years to a priest's study, and that

deeper level of preparation, not t just more preparation."

and have a minimum of five years teaching and/or administrative experience, and be certified in Virginia. Interested persons should submit a resume no later than December 31, 1998 to: Principal Search Committee, St. Bridget's Church, 6006 Three Chopt Road, Richmond, VA 23226. related

either."

Bishop Gossman acknowledged

INC.

(828) 253-8705

Classifieds

tradition, but

it

STORE,

Facilities

X Parishioner

don't have

MORTGAGE

"Neighbors Helping Neighbon

Medical

We

UNIVERSAL

Memben

K through

grown in new church.

a

4410-F Monroe Road,

IB

Human Re-

sources Clerk needed to work at Catholic Pastoral

Center from 1 :00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday starting January 18, 1999. Applicants must have a high school or business college degree, and possess strong verbal, computer and interpersonal Interested applicants should submit resumes

time choir director/litLirgist/administrator. A]>plicants should have a music degree and experi-

ence

in

choral directing.

An understanding

Catholic liturgy and a demonstrated

work with

ability'

and parish

staff are required.

commensurate with experience and

Salary

training.

(704) 394-3896

Fax: (770) 399-7866

Garden Center

Staff: Full-time

and part-time poCompetitive wages. Southeast Charlotte. Colchester Place Gar341-2200 den and Nursery. Call sitions available. Flexible hours.

I

Jude Catholic is

seeking a

full-

Fax

or mail credentials to: St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, Attn: Candee Elrod, Music Search Committee, 7171 Glenridge Drive, Atlanta, GA 30328.

before

St.

of to

adult volunteers, chileh-en and adult

choirs, clergy

PRAYERS & INTENTIONS

NC

1998.

in

"A church leaps and bounds,

Ask Us About Our Monthly Debt-Free Program

•

St.

still

new church

we're not supported by

fact

assigned to a parish

an

said.

We're not burdened by

man

to the diocesan vocais

require

the 200-to-300-year tradition that they have in some parts of the country.

Have Equity?

Daniel L. Murray, President

dents grades

a

but

•

Principal:

still

that has

m Banks

www.modularcorp.com

NC

are

But Father Lewis said that "in the beginning, it's going to be specifically

Facilities

(336) 275-8649 fax

Pius

"We

for potential lay ministry formation.

E

NC 27405

almost

to

"inculturation" to Tarheel culture.

North Carolina," he

modular@greensboro.com

St.

enough

could also be used for the fur-

for potential priests.

it

time in the house of formation.

ther education of current clergy and

Own a Home?

!i

would come

after the

m Recreational Greensboro,

The pastoral year would stUl be a part

study area and meeting room, he said, but the sanctuary can remain relatively intact to serve as the

m Schools

and changing needs

Suite

while living in the house.

will

have

meet your growing

1803 East Wendover Ave.,

Potentially, Father Lewis said, the house of formation could work closely with seminaries so that the students could get credit for courses taken

hall, library,

[MqdiharCqrp to

glish while living in the house.

of priestly formation, but

newly accepted

Custom Modular

life

likely be divided into a small lecture

tions

Buildings

no

in

be a savings."

In recent years, for example, a

Specialists in

during which he of priest and a Catholic parish. Usually he is assigned to a seminary the very next year. However, Father Lewis said, new candidates for priesthood will probably be assigned first to the house of formation for one or two years "for a program of inculturation to North Carolina" and possibly courses in religion, philosophy and spirituality from area universities and in the house of formation itself A seminarian from a Spanish-speaking country could conceivably work intensively on his Enfor a "pastoral year,"

Raleigh Diocese's house of

leigh has

The Catholic News & Herald 15

Around fhe Sfate

Thanks

— D.L.

to St. ,Iude for

answering

my

prayers.


16 The Catholic News & Herald

December

Living the Faith

Father Gene's

life

4,

1998

of love

By TIM FUNK The Charlotte Observer

CHARLOTTE —

his

It's

life,

this

thing called love. No, not romantic love. He's a Catholic priest, 75 years old.

Not Hallmark-card-have-a-niceday

He

love, either.

practically slaps

congregation with the word. "God LOVES you," he barks in his sermons at St. Peter Catholic Church in uptown his

Charlotte.

them

up,

how

priceless

eyes of the one who them and died for them. "God

they are

made

see

Warmth

wake

as if he's trying to

It's

make them in the

ofthe

LOVES you." If you press the Rev. Gene McCreesh on what exactly he means

by

you

love, he'll give

a

one-word

nition: Jesus. If Jesus did

Father

Jesus ministered to the poorest of the poor. So does McCreesh.

Shortly after he arrived in Charlotte in 1985, he started driving around town with blankets and sandwiches, looking for homeless men sleeping under bridges and in parks. We've got to have a place for these

men

to stay, he told

listen.

everybody who'd

Finally, with his help, the

George Shinn Center/Uptown Men's Shelter was opened. Jesus healed the sick. So does McCreesh.

He

can't restore their bodies like

Jesus did with lepers. But he can and does soothe the hearts and minds of

AIDS

patients by helping them find peace as they approach death. The House of Mercy, a home for adults in the final stages of AIDS, put him on its board of directors and, last Saturday night, feted him at a $ 1 00-per-person

where McCreesh was the second church in

fund-raiser. St. Peter, is

vicar,

Charlotte to join the Regional

AIDS

Network (RAIN) and with

Interfaith

RAIN

teams tending to the needs of people living with HIV/AIDS, is one of the most active. Jesus confounded the Pharisees by embracing outcasts. So does McCreesh. four

At

a time

sexuality

is

when

the issue of homo-

dividing churchgoers and

among

Holidays

defi-

that's love.

it,

Gene McCreesh

ond youngest of eight children, would visit him in Harrisburg and take a seat on the Senate floor. It was his mother, Susan, who taught him compassion and trust in God. Hungry men who'd lost their jobs after the Wall Street crash came to his family's back door, asking for

McCreesh helped his mother pass out sandwiches and oatmeal. By the time he was ,1 8, McCreesh had decided he wanted to be a priest and a missionary. He began studying with the Jesuits. In 1954, he was ordained; in 1958, he headed for Burma. He stayed several years, until the socialist government expelled all foreigners. Among his jobs upon his return: pastor of an inner city black food.

church

Poinsettias

attack in 1984. His doctor had told

Pennsylvania winters were too cold. about Puerto Rico? he asked.

Too hot.

to his

went before

the

On

many April

1,

—

—

all

people, including gays.

Discrimination against homosexu-

reminds McCreesh of what it used to be like for many Irish Catholic im-

als

migrants, including his all

own

parents.

Today, America seems charmed by things Irish "Angela's Ashes" has

— — but John McCreesh

sold millions of copies; "Riverdance" tickets

was

go

fast

told he couldn't

buy

a

house

in a

WASPish section of Philadelphia 1926. No Irish Catholics allowed. Things changed. McCreesh's father chauffeur who'd made a

—

In a

in

1934,

—

isn't

someone you don't know? Have you

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of money with Philadelphia's first parking garages, then lost it all during the Depression was elected to the Pennsylvania State Senate. Gene, the seclot

impending retirement. McCreesh

out of love yet. He'd like to help start a dialogue in Charlotte between gays and straights, as part of the Building Bridges approach Mecklenburg Ministries is using to get blacks and whites talking to each other. If s time, he says, for those who differ on homosexuality to sit down together. "I've heard some people say they love the sinner, but hate the sin," McCreesh says. "But how can you love

ten count case $25.

Fresh Cut, Carolina Grown

—

McCreesh introduced Long

ea.,

Christmas Trees

in the dome of the Charlotteans lobby of the Transamerica Building.

son "No Black Tie Event" for their vicar Dec. 5. But don't mistake any of this for

counts

his flock.

from $2.99

—

Peter's will host a 100-cents-per-per-

among

Beautiful 6" potted poinsettias

f

Thirteen years later, "Father Gene," as the parishioners at St. Peter's call him, has become such an uptown Charlotte fixture that artist Ben Long painted his portrait along with those of other prominent

Mecklenburg County

He

lesbians.

Over 20,000 assorted colors and sizes

him

How

commissioners poised that night to punish the Arts & Science Council for supporting the staging of "Angels in America," a play with homosexual characters to urge equal justice for

most passionate defenders of gays and

&

Decorating Ideas

to Charlotte after a heart

of them 1997, he

Charlotte's

Festive Gifts

in Philadelphia.

He came

homeless flock in the 1980s. As a follow-up to the House of Mercy's formal dinner for McCreesh last weekend, the congregation at St.

voters, he's been

GARDENS & NURSERY

Reprinted with permission of The Charlotte Observer. Tim Funk, an Observer reporter, is on temporary assign-

ment with

their editorial team.

member of St. Patrick

Cathedral.

He

is

a

10605 Park Road, Charlotte at

|

BLACKLION


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