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March

Volume

2000

Number 26

Serving Catholics

& H E R A L D Western North Carolina

the Diocese of Charlotte

n$id

Morganton community discusses possibility of

new Catholic school 3

...Page

From the Gover At Vatican and Egypt, pope

begins Holy Year

pilgrimages

...Page

Living

the Faith Desert

Catholic couple picked as longest

married

Jericho near the

Mount of Temptation, photo by Joann

S. Keane

in nation

.Page

Faith formation

Coordinator shares ideas, talents with parishes By

Local News

ALESHA

MATTHEWS

many hands ...Page

—

The

deep, I mention the pink flamingo and the importance of symbols."

time she was six, when she taught her younger brother to read right after

Sacramental preparation is only one area that Ruble, the Central Region faith formation coordinator, covers during her various workshops and presenta-

she learned. Her teaching skills did not stop with one sibling. She had a brother with dyslexia, and her mother thought that since she was so good with her other brother, that she could help this one. So, with the help of a book her mother purchased, she also taught her brother to read. This propelled her in the direction of special education; she obtained her bachelor of arts degree in that area of study in 1972 and began

ght of

pink flamingoes sometimes brings Peg Ruble to

Caring Friends program

extends

M. PRICE

Staff Writer

tears. Although many things cause her to weep, pink flamingoes are a significant stimulant.

showing up

regional Rites of Election

said Ruble.

The

life,"

birds' in-

come from Betty Cory, one of her sistersin-law who passed away fluence

...Page

suddenly from a brain aneurysm. Cory

fvcry Week

began a

Entertainment

Editorials

& Columns ...Pages

<^L?<«

14-15

Lent and the

GreatJubilee

2000 Special in this issue

women's group named waterfowl in Ruble's which a par-

state of Illinois, in

Gastonia vicariates. She meets with parish leaders and updates them on diocesan policies and guidelines, meets with the parish catechetical leaders during the vicariate meetings, and assesses faith formation programs already in place, she explained.

woman would

host a party. To let everyone know about the party, the hostess would place a plastic flamingo in her front yard. In order to get rid of the bird, another woman would agree to host a party. ticular

10-11

social

after the pink

home ...Pages

tions to the parishes in the Boone, Hickory and

"Pink flamingoes keep

Diocese to celebrate

"Pink flamingoes were a very unique symbol to Betty, and I never got the chance to say good-bye to her," explained Ruble, who now wears a flamingo pin as a symbolic reminder of her sister-in-law. "When I talk about

Ruble said that her current vocation

directly linked to her family

and her faith, two strong influences from her early days. Ruble is the third oldest of 10 children born and raised in a Catholic family in Springfield, 111. She said that being in a large family rooted her in a sense of community and taught her that everyone has something to

contribute because everyone has unique gifts to share. "And sharing is something that you learned early on

the importance of symbols and how they carry a deeper meaning, as in

sacramental preparation where the symbols are universally specific and

Teaching was a profession that she had always wanted to do from the

family," she said.

teaching. "I wanted to help kids who were troubled, which was out of my understanding of who I was as a Christian. I was responding to a Christian-specific ministry, although didn't realize

at the time," she said.

After her oldest daughter Cory was born, she decided to stay at home to raise a family. During those years, she first became involved with parish catechetical ministry.

eased into the

ministry by teaching kindergarten faith formation because I thought my knowledge of the faith wasn't sound enough," she admitted. After the family, which had grown to five with the addition of her daughter Michelle and her son Tyson, moved to Wisconsin, where

See FAITH

FORMATION,

page

The Catholic News & Herald

March

The World Gap between

rich and poor widens despite boom

nuns from the convent at Nowogrodek, now in Belarus. The nuns were killed by the German Ge-

—

WASHINGTON spite the

2000

Brief

(CNS) Debooming economy, there is

steadily

stapo after asking to take the place of 120 arrested civilians.

gree of inequality has so steadily in-

Theologian says Catholics need confidence in their faith WASHINGTON (CNS) To

worsening economic inequality in the United States, an economist told church social ministers. "The de-

Floods

creased since the 1970s that the United States is now more economically unequal than any other counChris Tilly, a professor of regional and economic development at the University of Massachusetts at Lowell. He made the comments in a presentation to the Feb. 26 Roundtahle, the association of dioctry," said

esan social action ministers.

Vatican II was a gift, not a break with past, pope says VATICAN CITY (CNS) People who believe the Second

—

Vatican Council marked a break with the Catholic Church's past cannot correctly interpret

John Paul

its

teaching,

—

have an impact, Catholics need to approach public life with confidence in their faith, Dominican theologian Father J. Augustine Di Noia said Feb. 23. "We have to come to our audiences with confidence that we have something valuable to share," he said. Father Di Noia, secretary for doctrine and pastoral practices of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops, spoke at a luncheon seminar in Washington hosted by the Faith and Reason Institute, a recently formed Washington think-tank on religion and culture.

Mozambique

A rescue

worker

mother and two children from

pulls a

flood waters in the

Mozambique city Chokwe Feb. 28.

South African defense forces were attempting to evacuate thousands of people from the flooded region of the Limpopo River.

Vatican official distinguishes

between martyr, witness of

VATICAN CITY

Pope

Although he had

said.

Egypt, the pope interrupted his rest to give the closing address at a Feb.

not constitutionally protected WASHINGTON (CNS) The procedure known as partial-birth

—

abortion is so different that it does not warrant the constitutional protection the court has given abortion in general, argues the U.S. Catholic Conference in a brief to the U.S. Supreme Court. "The killing of partly born children is new to both law and medicine," says the USCC in an "amicus," or friend of the court, brief for an upcoming case over Nebraska's law prohibiting partial-birth abortion. The brief, in the case of Stenberg vs. Carhart, was written by USCC associate general counsel Michael F. Moses and general counsel Mark E. Chopko on behalf of the bishops' con-

CNS

photo from Reuters

Congress asked to condemn moves to oust Vatican as U.N. observer

WASHINGTON

(CNS)

—

The

House and Senate are considering resolutions that condemn moves to end the Vatican's status as a permanent observer to the United Nations.

The

"sense of Congress" resolution

was introduced by two Catholic Republicans Rep. Chris Smith of New Jersey in the House and Sen. Robert C. Smith of New Hampshire in the Senate. The resolution says Con-

—

gress "strongly objects to any effort to

expel the Holy See from the United

Nations as a state participant by re-

moving

its

status as a

nonmember

permanent observer." For about a year, the group Catholics for a Free Choice has been leading a campaign to change the Vatican's status at the state

Episcopal, j calendar

HERALD

March 3, 1999 Volume 9 • Number 26 Editor:

Associate Editor: Staff Writer:

Jimmy Rostar

AleshaM.

— —

Price

Production Associate: Julie Radcliffe Advertising Representative: Cindi Feerick

Secretary: Jane Glodowski

1123 South Church

St.,

NC 28203 NC 28237

Charlotte,

P.O. Box 37267, Charlotte, Phone:(704)370-3333 FAX: (704) 370-3382

Mail:

—

E-mail: catholicnews@charlottediocese.org

The Catholic News & Herald, USPC 007-393, is published Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte, 1123 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 $1 5 per year by the

for enrollees in

Roman

parishes of the

Diocese

Catholic

Charlotte and $18 per year for

other subscribers.

postage paid other

cities.

of all

Second-class NC and

at Charlotte

POSTMASTER: Send

address corrections to The Catholic

News &

Herald, P.O.

Charlotte,

28237.

Bishop William G. Curlin will take part in the following events: March 8 Ash Wednesday 7:30 pm Mass St. Patrick Cathedral, Charlotte March 11 3:30 pm Mass Our Lady of the Americas, Biscoe March 12 3 pm Rite of Election St. Lawrence Basilica, Asheville March 14 11 am Presbyteral Council Meeting Pastoral Center, Charlotte March 15 12:15 pm Ecumenical Lenten Lecture and Service St. Pius X, Greensboro March 15 7:15 pm Rite of Election St. Pius X, Greensboro March 16 7:15 pm Rite of Election St. Matthews, Charlotte

—

Most Reverend William G. Curlin Joann S. Keane

Publisher:

Box 37267,

"witness of the faith." Strictly speaking, the term martyr should be used only for Catholics who died for their

and were beatified or canonized, Archbishop Jose Saraiva Martins, prefect of the Congregation for Sainthood Causes. The term "wit-

faith

ference and six other religious groups.

United Nations to that of a nongovernmental organization. Nearly 400 organizations, including the International

Planned Parenthood Federation, have asked U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan to review the status of the Holy See as a permanent observer. Nuns' beatifications will renew church in Belarus, officials say WARSAW, Poland (CNS) A spokeswoman for the Holy Family of Nazareth order said the beatification of 1 nuns martyred in World War II will encourage "renewal and reconciliation" in the East European church. Bishop Aleksander Kaszkiewicz of Grodno, Belarus, welcomed the move as a "providential event," adding that

—

it would encourage support for church-run charity and education projects. On March 5, Pope John Paul II will beatify Sister Maria Stella Mardosewicz and 10 other Polish

NEWS

faith

—

Pope John Paul II prepared to beatify a group of martyrs, a Vatican official said it was important to understand the difference between a martyr and a

just returned from his pilgrimage to

25-27 Vatican meeting on the implementation of the Second Vatican Council. Pope John Paul rejected the idea that the Catholic Church needs a new council to reorganize its structure and its mission to respond to modern needs and concerns. Brief says partial-birth abortion

(CNS)

—

Diocesan planner March 7 ASHEVILLE

—

The Basilica of St. Lawrence, 97 Haywood St., is offering a course on the doctors, scholars and fathers of the Church. The series of classes are being held in the St. Justin Building across the street from St. Lawrence. Tonight's class focusing on St. Theresa of Avila takes place from 7:30-9 p.m. Upcoming classes include St. Eusebius of Caesarea on March 1 5, St. Augustine on March 22 and St. Benedict on March 29. Call the church faith formation office for further details at (828) 252-8816. GREENSBORO "Whatever happened to penance during Lent?" is the topic of the 12:10 p.m. presentation at The Franciscan Center, 233 North Greene St. Capuchin Father Charles Finnegan's talk is focusing on understanding penance in the biblical and Franciscan traditions. Call the center

—

said

nesses of the faith" Catholics

whose

may

be used for

beatification process

has not been completed or for other Christians who were killed because of their faith or promotion of Christian values, the archbishop said.

Vatican rejects some claims of best way to celebrate Mass WASHINGTON (CNS) In a

—

letter to a U.S.

bishop, the Vatican

Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments has rejected arguments that priests should give preference to Eucharistic Prayer 1 and should stand at the altar with their back to the people when they celebrate Mass. The letter, responding to inquiries by Bishop David E. Foley of Bir-

mingham,

Ala.,

bishops and was

at (336)

was sent

made

273-2554

to all U.S.

public Feb. 22.

for registration

and more information.

—

Rev. Bar10 MAGGIE VALLEY bara Nelson is leading a retreat focusing on the losses we experience in life and healthy ways of grieving through them. Living Waters Catholic Reflection Center is the location for the weekend retreat at 103 Living Waters Lane. For reservations and other information, call (828) 926-3833. The Fourth An1 1 CHARLOTTE nual St. Patrick's Day Parade is taking place today in uptown Charlotte, beginning at 12 noon at Stonewall and Tryon Streets and finishing at Fifth and Tryon Streets. The parade is organized by Dyer-Hart Productions, the Ancient Order of Hibernians and the Knights of

—

Columbus. Local church groups, businesses and schools are

welcome

to par-

and volunteers are also needed for the parade and the Irish Festival ticipate,

afterward. Contact Jim Lawson at (704) 522-9728 for more information. 12

CHARLOTTE — The Newly Mar-

March

2000

The Catholic News & Herald 3

Around the Diocese

Morganton community discusses By ELLEN NEERINCX

SIGMON

The committee surveyed

Correspondent

MORGANTON

—

After working for over a year with architects, contractors, city engineers and diocesan school officials, a committee of

parishioners

from St. Charles Borromeo Church held a meeting

Feb. 23 with over 100 parishioners and other interested people in the

community

to discuss their plans for Catholic elementary school, and to hand out applications for this

new

fall.

Whether or not

the parish school

spens in the fall depends on how lany applications are returned to the

:hurch

March

Lynn

10.

lenderson, chairperson of the Catholic school committee at St. Charles

the par-

ish last fall,

he said. "People of all faiths are welcome, and we're stronger for that."

pressed support for the school, said

Mercy Sister Maureen Meehan, director of religious formation for the

and 241 families out of 258 that responded to the survey exMrs. Henderson.

During the meeting, several education officials from the Diocese of Charlotte also gave presentations about the benefits of Catholic schools. Dr. Michael Skube, superintendent of Catholic schools, gave an overview of Catholic schools in the country, in North Carolina and in the diocese. He also talked about some things that he said were important to parents when they send their children to school.

"Catholic schools exist to really help you do what you want done in

issues into daily lessons. She said,

"We

have no

binds on us to say can't

much

it.

God

we so

present in the

life

of the child."

ter

Franciscan SisMona Wingert,

assistant superinten-

pens

the testing that

fall.

She also spoke of the possibilities of adding a sixth-grade class the following year, as well as seventh- and eighth-grade classes in years to come. "I am very confident that this

program

work," said Mrs. can give our children something special. There will be people who will sit back to wait and see what will happen next year, but the opportunity is now." will

Henderson.

"We

at a

Catholic school, he added.

may

not happen anywhere else." said that Catholic schools provide a safe, secure environment for students, as well as a strong academic program. "No one "It

Skube also

wants to send their child to an envi-

ronment

that

second-rate in academics," he said. "Our children are well-prepared for the next level." Skube added that the children in Catholic schools are also taught respect for people of other religions. "Alis

though we are a Catholic school, we want it to be as diverse as possible,"

March March March

Women's History Month Ash Wednesday

Lent

Request for Pardon/ Worldwide Penance Annunciation Jubilee of Women

March 25

00^

their tuition. "I

this

Options for pay-

very confident that

program

will

ment include monthly or quar-

work,"

said Mrs. Henderson.

"We

terly plans, but a 5 percent discount will be given to those

can give our children

something special. There

who pay

be people who will sit back to wait and see what will

will

happen next

the opportunity

was

to make sure that Catholic school students are ready to go to the next grade. In addition to the testing that is required by the state of North Caro-

required

lina in the public schools, students in

the diocesan Catholic schools take several nationally recognized tests as well. This is helpful, she said, for students in families that relocate to other states after spending time in schools

here.

She also addressed the replace-

ment of textbooks, which is on a fiveyear rotation, similar to public schools in North Carolina.

Tom Henderson, member of the Catholic school committee at the parish, presented the proposed ranges of tuition and the payment plans that would be available. He gave two examples, each based on the number of students enrolled and the number of teachers that would be hired. In the first scenario, with 85 students and five teachers, tuition was estimated at' $2,275 to $2,400. In the

Jubilee Days for March

added

$1,000

gious

possible, but that plans

would allow

family that was enrolled in the school, and a 15 percent discount for a third student in one family. Students of other faiths have a surcharge of

training each teacher receives to be

Borromeo, said that close to 70 students would need to apply to make it admit up to 90 students entering grades one through five this

at $2,400 to $2,575. Both options offered a 10 percent discount on the tuition of a second student in one

able to integrate reli-

your home, while your children are away from home," he said. The spiritual and moral foundation also hap-

Catholic school mated

diocesan Catholic Schools Office, talked to those present about the

dent of schools for the diocese, was also present at the meeting. She talked about

them

new

possibility of

fee

The is

full

by July

registration

$75.

Some

year, but is

the

year's tuition

atten-

dance asked ques-

now."

tions about the financial liability of the parish for the school. Mrs. Henderson and Dr. Skube said that the committee had worked closely with diocesan school officials to develop the budget for the school, and that the plan was for the school to be self-supporting. Mrs. Henderson added that she felt like this school was meant to happen. "Doors have opened during this entire mission," she said, "and that has strengthened my faith." Dr. Skube said that the parish had been able to make a workable plan for a school without a huge capital expenditure to get started. "This will be great if this (does happen), because it will give hope to (many) other small parishes," he said, noting that this is one of the most exciting happenings in the schools in a long time,

Anyone

more informaan application, can call Lynn or Tom Henderson at (828) 584-6448. interested in

tion about the school, or in getting

second scenario, with 70 students and four teachers, the tuition was esti-

Group of St. Gabriel Church, 3016 Providence Rd., is spon-

perspective on the Eucharist, St. Paul the Apostle Church, 2715 Horse Pen

soring a group session on in-law relationships tonight at 7 p.m. in the Ministry Center in Room D. Call the church

Creek Rd., is hosting Oblate of St. Francis de Sales Father Michael S. Murray from the De Sales Spirituality Center. His presentation, "Summit of Compassion," is taking place tonight from 7:30-8:30 p.m. and tomorrow morning from 10-11 a.m. in the Fellow-

ried Couples'

office for details at (704)

CHARLOTTE

—

364-5431.

St. Patrick Cathe1621 Dilworth Rd. East, is celebrating a charismatic Mass today at 4 p.m. with prayer teams available at 3 p.m. and a potluck dinner after Mass.

dral,

Call Josie at (704)

527-4676 for

CLEMMOMS

—

Holy Family

Church, 4820 Kinnamon Rd., ing Parish Retreat 2000

through March

details.

hav-

today

featuring Dominican Father Michael Burke. There are two sessions daily beginning with 9 a.m. Mass and ending with a 7 p.m. prayer service. The themes include "finding

God

15,

in daily life," "experienc-

ing and sharing forgiveness" and "family spirituality." For childcare and other information, call the church office at (336) 778-0600, Ext. 200.

14 GREENSBORO — For

a Salesian

ship Hall. For

information, call

the church office at (336) 294-4696.

BELMONT — Wendy Shalit,

au-

thor of the book "A Return to ModDiscovering the Lost Virtue," is speaking tonight at 8 p.m. in the Haid Theatre at Belmont Abbey College, Belmont-Mt. Holly Rd. She is the college's 2000 lecturer in the Father Cuthbert Allen Visiting Fellows Program, co-sponsored by the Charlotte esty:

Area Educational Consortium. The event is free to the public, but tickets are required, call (704) 825-6735. "Faithful Citizenship: Civic Responsibility for a New

CHARLOTTE Millennium"

—

workshop on

this U.S.

Bishops' election year 2000 statement,

being given by Joan Rosenhauer of the U.S. Catholic Conference, tonight from 7-9 p.m. at St. Peter Church, 507 S.

Tryon St. The workshop is also being held tomorrow from 7-9 p.m. at St. Pius X Church, 2210 North Elm St. in Greensboro. Topics for discussion include Catholic teaching and principles of faithful citizenship, correct

church political activity involvement and moral priorities for public life and questions for campaigns. St. Joseph Church, 720 West 13th St., and Catholic Social Services Elder Ministry are sponsoring a support group for caretakers of elderly or ill family members and friends. All caregivers are encouraged to attend today's meeting at 1 p.m. in the church hall. Care is being pro-

NEWTON —

vided for those adult family members who are able to attend with their caregivers. For further information,

Meg

Smith at (828) 464-8442 or e-mail meg@twave.net.

call

—

WINSTON-SALEM St. Leo the Great Church, 335 Springdale Ave., is sponsoring "A Properly Drawn Will," an estate planning seminar, tonight at 7 p.m. in Conference Room A. For more information, call Cindy Rice, diocesan director of planned giving, at (704) 370-3320.

—

1 8 FLETCHER The Ancient Order of Hibernians, the Cross and

Shamrock Division - #l N.C., is holding its 7th Annual St. Patrick's Day Dinner at the Broadmoor Golf Club on French Broad Lane, off of Airport Rd.

The festivities

start at 7 p.m. with door corned beef and cabbage dinner and music by Joe Lavin and his band. For tickets and details, call

prizes, a

George Dunham

at (828) 298-0085.

The Ancient Order

of Hibernians

international organization dedicated to friendship, unity and Catholic charity.

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

The Catholic News & Herald

March

Around the Diocese

2000

Caring Friends program extends many hands By

SUSAN deGUZMAN Correspondent

WINSTON-SALEM crisis occurs,

—

several

When

a death, a serious

surgery or isolation,

illness,

the

Caring Friends group that lends a hand. For the past five years, the Caring Friends of St. Leo Church and School have helped many in need. "Caring Friends grew out of an awareness of families in need when there were medical crises," says Beth Hoeing, who founded the program. The particular circumstance that she remembers was a couple who had simultaneous emergencies. The wife was recovering from surgery when the husband was suddenly hospitalized. Hoeing found out about the situation and started making meals for the family.

For many

customary to make meals for friends, neighbors and family that face a difficult time. Yet, what if someone has no relatives living it is

nearby, the neighbors aren't close, or friends are unable or unavailable to

help? These are stances

when

some of

the circum-

the Caring Friends Pro-

gram comes to the call. Beth Hoeing felt that volunteers could help

other baby, and the Caring Friends

brought meals once again, and also helped baby-sit when Diane had to go to the doctor. Providing meals, while the initial work of the group, is only one of the areas in which Caring Friends extends itself. Attention to the homebound has become a large focus. Marlene Olenick is responsible for developing this part of the program and has about 15 volunteers helping her who visit shut-ins once every two weeks. Organizers compiled a list of about 60 parishioners the help of Father James Solari, pastor, the church office and eucharistic ministers. Some of the eucharistic ministers are also Caring Friends. With a need for this type of outreach, Olenick came up with a unique

Olenick asked third-grade teacher Maureen Patti if some of her students would be willing to write to idea.

a pool of

many

in need.

Those who volunteer are asked to prepare and freeze a meal. They are given several recipes or may make

own

dish following dietary meal is not needed within two months, then the volunteer may use it for her own family. Diane and Doug Lohman are the recipients of such assistance. Expecting triplets, Diane was put on bed rest at 19 weeks into her pregnancy. The Lohmans had no family in town and had only been living in Winston-Satheir

was on bed rest until the girls were months old. "It was very comforting to have so many people reach out to us. Everyone was really helpful and got us through some tough times, even when we were strangers." The Lohmans recently had anI

guidelines. If the

the

homebound once

in a while.

The

response was overwhelming. Now, every student in the St. Leo School writes once a month to their

homebound

The

'friend.'

make

children also

which are various hand-made pieces of art, with the help of school art teacher Stephanie Iauco. Matt Sechrest, an eighth-grader periodically

at St.

favors,

"If it wasn't for the Caring Friends, I don't think we would have

gotten through these last couple of

ticular, singing."

for

two

years.

Diane said. "They brought us meals two or three times a week since

years,"

Hayden

C C

also tells that

many

of the shut-ins

have their letters and favors on display

when she comes

But

it is

Says

what's going on with teen- agers these days. I look forward to talking to her about Wake Forest Basketball when we go back in the spring. She loves them (the team) and so do I." Transportation is another service that the Caring Friends program provides. Pauline Rosenwald organizes this, matching volunteers to provide rides to Mass, and visits to doctor appointments, ongoing treat-

to visit.

See

CARING FRIENDS,

SCNIORS' SPRING FLING At the Catholic Conference Center

Come i

Pineville

Road,

Pineville,

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Call

10-3:30

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with Bisn °P William G. Curlin,

crafts, bingo,

door prizes and more...!

Sandra Breakfield (704) 370-3220 or Meg Smith at Register now! space available

—

(828) 464-8442. Limited

To register, send form and $8.00 (includes lunch) to: Seniors' Spring Fling, Catholic Social Services

addition to our complete facility,

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13,

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Affordability

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also offer:

NC 28203

NC 28212

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Boarding Kennels Professional

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Sponsored by CSS Elder Ministries

/I I\\YS) N5 A k U xk. music, lunch with friends, games,

(Near Carolina Pavilion/AMC 22 Theater)

Charlotte,

George

eighth-grader

Wyatt about his visit to his pen pal, "I got to see what she was really like and what she did. She likes to know

not only with correspon-

Your

Hospital

Dignity

Privately, Locally

from

those shut-ins that have been able to write back. Olenick has helped some of her shut-ins by taking dictation. She remembers one shut-in who was anxious to write before the World Series started because both pen pals were rooting for the Yankees. Olenick

Animal

Pineville

10833

Steven

The Caring Friends volunteers also bring letters to the school

dence that the school reaches out to the Caring Friends' shut-ins. Patti organizes two trips a year, near Christmas and in the spring, for the older children to visit their pen pals.

THURSDAY, APRIL

medical care

5505 Monroe Rd.

doing!"

Loving Your Pets'

Center

Simplicity

"It was kind of strange writing to her at first because I didn't know her," he says. "By the second or third time I wrote, even though I didn't get anything back, it was much easier. I felt like I knew her a bit. I tell her what's going on in my life, about school and sports. I ask her how she is

grade, corresponds with an elderly

Cremation

woman.

Jesserer, also in eighth

"Our Specialty

Carolina Funeral &

Alison Eiffe and Alisha Finn, students at St. Leo School in Winston-Salem, spend some time with their friend Ms. Hessler during a recent visit organized through St. Leo Church and School's Caring Hearts ministry.

Leo School who corresponds

with an elderly gentleman, shares, "I write to him about basketball and other sports. He tells me a lot about what's going on with himself and his wife and about their activities, in par-

lem

Photo by Jamie McAleer

PARISH $8.00 per person. Make checks payable to Catholic Social Services. Registration Deadline: Wed, April 5 Group registration forms and directions to the Conference Center are available at church offices and with Club leaders.

March

2000

The Catholic News & Herald 5

Around the Diocese

Faith Formation, from page 1 she had graduated to teaching fifth grade faith formation and had been a substitute special education teacher

and

tutor, she

was undergoing pro-

fessional catechetical training

ished the process in her

home

after her

and

new

fin-

parish

husband Reid was

of-

fered a job in Charlotte.

She taught

faith

formation classes

John Neumann Church in Charlotte and was asked to become at St.

the youth minister in 1991.

The

Office of Faith

faith,

Formation

in-

vited Ruble to

do a diocesan-sponsored program on natural family planning because of her implementation of a

human

formation coordinator

One

Octo-

recent project involves the formation textbook evaluations that she is working on with Marylin Kravatz, the Southern Region coordinator, and Franciscan Sister Bernadette Svatos, the Northern Region coordinator. Both individually

ber 1997.

sexuality

component

faith

"I am a liaison and consultant and give the parishes a direct link to

the Office of Faith Formation," said

Ruble.

"My

role is to support them in ministry to do excellent catechetical programs and to provide speakers, training and resources to help them provide the best catechetical program possible."

their

her parish at the time. She was then asked if she was interested in taking a part-time diocesan regional position, involving adult education training and catechist workshops. This job led to her being hired on a

formation is important to Ruble, and she will be receiving her master's degree in reli-

full-time basis as the central regional

gious

Ongoing personal

and as a team, the three strive to foster the faith journey and bring the jubilee message of evangelization to

many areas of the diocese. The three other faith formation

faith

ern Region, composed of the Albemarle, Charlotte and Salisbury vicariates, the >Vestern region, composed of the Smoky Mountain and

education this May from LIMEX, a program from Loyola University of

New

Orleans.

John Hess, the ordinator at St.

formation co-

faith

Mary Church

Asheville vicariates, and the Northern Region, composed of the Greensboro

Shelby, said, "she is very energetic, helpful and outgoing and is always open to coming to the parishr to share

with old and young

and Winston-Salem Faithformation

She helped set up the youth group and helped to choose the faith formation curriculum. She gives tools to faith formation teachers in the parishes and looks at alike.

and programs

tries

from

the

vicariates,

one ofthe 35 minis-

that receive

funding

annual Diocesan Support Appeal.

Contact Staff Writer Alesha

Price by calling (704) 370-3354 or email amprice@charlottediocese. org.

different options as far as curriculum is

re-

gions in the diocese include the South-

concerned."

Peg Ruble, Central Region coordinator, pictured center, talks with Marylin Kravatz, Southern Region coordinator, pictured left, and Franciscan Sister Bernadette Svatos, Northern Region coordinator, during the textbook evaluation workshop on Feb. 24 for the Southern Region faith formation parish leaders.

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"Every single day, no matter how am, I take that program extremely seriously," says Conrad says of her involvement. "As a practicing Catholic, it is the only thing I can do ill

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The Catholic News & Herald

March

People Lay missionary CHARLOTTE

—

Al Barbarino,

throughout North America and beyond to sing and travels

share a message on the essence of being Catholic, will visit Charlotte for several engagements March 11-14. His mission? To benefit the needy in places he ministers as well as in his state of New York. Since 1991, Barbarino has recorded five albums of traditional, con-

home

temporary and original songs.

lay

apostolate of the Franciscan Friars of

the Renewal, Barbarino speaks with and sings to audiences about appreciating the loving message of Jesus. All

—

both proceeds from album sales through mail orders and at his appearances are given to charities

—

that help the poor. Locally, he gives a percentage to

host parishes and organizations. OthPadre Pio

ers receiving funds are the

Center for homeless men in the Bronx, a ministry of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, and Croatian Relief Services, a New Jersey-based agency aiding victims of the war in Bosnia. Barbarino will perform a free concert of inspirational and spiritual songs March 14 at 7 p.m. in St. John Neumann Church, 8451 Idlewild Rd., in Charlotte.

He will visit St. Ann Church, 3635 Park Rd. in Charlotte, to sing at all weekend Masses March 11-12 as well, and will sing at the 6 p.m. Mass at St. John Neumann Church March 12. He will also briefly address the congregations about his ministry. On March 13, he will sing at the Little Flower Assisted Living Community. Through his ministry, Barbarino hopes to provide for those hurting both materially and spiritually. "The message is two-fold: to remind people that God is with us every minute of the day, and to help people realize the peace of Christ," he said during a 1998 visit to Charlotte. Barbarino's recordings will be available at all of his Charlotte appearances. For more information on the concert at, St. John Neumann Church, call (704) 536-6520. t

extremely

difficult,

When is

visit us.

celebrate Catholic Schools Week with Bishop William G. Curlin by participating in an All School Mass. Bishop Curlin spoke about his experiences in Catholic school and urged students to work hard and appreciate the sacrifices parents

The priest made his remarks in the Feb. 23 issue of The Christian Century in a review of recently published books that took opposite "sides in the debate over the response of Pope Pius XII and his Vatican offices to Hitler's World War II effort to exterminate the Jews. Suffragette film brings Burns his fourth Christopher Award

make

for their

children.

The bishop

also blessed the

throats of all the students after Mass.

—

(CNS) A PBS two women who were instrumental in getting American

feature on

women

the right to vote has won documentarian Ken Burns his fourth Christopher Award. Burns' documentary, "Not for Ourselves Alone: The Story of Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony," was one of 21 television programs, movies and books to be given Christopher

Awards

at a Feb.

24 ceremony in New York. Burns' previous wins came with "The Civil

War"

"The Statue of Liberty" in 1987, and "The Brooklyn Bridge" in 1983. He has produced and directed each winner and he also wrote "The Civil War." U.S. church official urges release of Congolese archbishop WASHINGTON (CNS) Cardiin 1991,

—

nal Bernard F.

man

Law

of Boston, chair-

of the U.S. bishops' International

Policy Committee, denounced the ar-

Congolese archbishop and urged the U.S. government to press for his immediate release. "I vehemently deplore the recent arrest of Archbishop rest of a

Emmanual dinal

Law

archbishop's immediate release by the

St.

Congolese Rally for Democracy, the rebel group that arrested the archbishop, said Cardinal Law.

comes

Monica Elementary School. 'Romero' to be nationally televised in El Salvador SAN SALVADOR (CNS)

—

Archbishop Oscar A. Romero, previously banned by Salvadoran autborities, will be shown on

Put your family first, Marquette University men's basketball coach Tom Crean told a group of parents and

national television as part of the commemorations of the 20th anniversary of his death. "We have never before

Whitefish Bay first, and put everything else behind it," urged Crean, speaking as a coach and a young father. "Anytime you put family ahead of whatever you're doing, you're on the right track." The 33-year-old Crean, who is in his first season with the Golden Eagles, spoke to about 75 people at a fund-raising breakfast for

been given permission to show the film 'Romero.' I don't know why," Msgr. Ricardo Urioste Bustamante, an official of the San Salvador Archdiocese, told reporters Feb. 16. The film, starring the late Raul Julia, will be shown in the run-up to a series of activities being planned by the Oscar Romero

film about the late

first,

—

would-be athletes

at a

parish. "Start with family

...

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who

heads the organization.

Kataliko of Bukavu," Car-

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—

of scholarship, a leading expert in Catholic-Jewish relations has said the church should take no official action for now on Pope Pius XII's sainthood cause. "Many of us who have researched Pius' record are strongly opposed to his canonization, beatification or even elevation to Venerable' status," said Servite Father John Pawlikowski, professor of social ethics at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. "Such action would make it

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2000

The Catholic News & Herald 7

From the Cover

At Vatican and

in Egypt,

pope

begins Holy Year pilgrimages By JOHN THAVIS News Service CAIRO, Egypt (CNS) With a three-day visit to Egypt and a "virtual" journey to Iraq, Pope John Paul II began a long-anticipated series of Holy Year pilgrimages to the roots of Catholic

Coptic

—

the faith.

In Egypt Feb. 26, the pope prayed at the foot of Mount Sinai,

where Moses received the Ten Commandments, and said God's law was still the only hope for modern society. "The Ten Commandments are not an arbitrary imposition of a tyranniLord. They were written in stone; but before that, they were written on the human heart as the universal moral law, valid in every time and place," he said. Gazing over a desert mountain landscape that evoked the severity of

CNS

photo from Reuters

joins Orthodox representatives at the foothill Feb. 28. The pope, making his long-awaited

of Mount Sinai in Egypt pilgrimage to the place where Moses received the Ten Commandments, called for a return to "universal moral law."

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birthplace of the patriarch Abraham located in Iraq, the pope took a mental journey there instead, leading a Vatican service filled with prayers, songs and images. The pope said Abraham, called by

The Mount Sinai pilgrimage capped a historic visit to Egypt, where the pope celebrated Mass for his tiny

ditional submission" to God's will, and in a sense a spiritual father figure for Christians, Muslims and Jews.

and reached out to Christians.

—

"As-salamu alaikum Peace be with you!" he said in Arabic after arriving at Cairo's airport, then delivered a pointed message against religious intolerance.

left,

Prevented by security concerns from traveling to ancient Ur, the

to a

flock of Catholics

seated

"To do harm, to promote violence and conflict in the name of religion is a terrible contradiction and a great offense against God. But past and present history give us many examples of such a misuse of religion," he

said.

Egypt welcomed the pope with state honors and interreligious warmth. After kissing a bowl of Egyptian earth at the airport, the was greeted by the leaders of Egypt's Muslim, Orthodox and

pontiff

Catholic communities:

Mohammed

Grand Sheik

God

SENIORS FAMILIES

Sheik Tantawi, considered the leading spiritual authority for the world's 1 billion Sunni Muslims, hosted the pope at his sprawling alAzhar University complex, a major center of Islamic teaching. Sheiks and

imams crowded around the stoopshouldered pontiff to whisper a few

Sayyid Tantawi, Coptic

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to move his family across the desert new land, was a model of "uncon-

In Egypt, the pope's Mass, celebrated in front of 1 5,000 people at a Cairo sports arena, was broadcast on national television on a Friday, the Muslim holy day. The pope pointed out in his sermon that church-run social and charitable agencies were open to all, including Muslims. "Christians and Muslims, while respecting different religious views, should place their skills at the service of the nation, at every level of society,"

•

the Bible, the pope said the world needs to rediscover the "liberating obedience" that prompted Moses to answer God's call.

Muslims and Orthodox

II,

Stephanos

pope's focus throughout the visit was spiritual, and his jubilee pilgrimage actually began at the Vatican the day before his arrival in Egypt.

cal

Pope John Paul

Patriarch

Ghattas. President Hosni Mubarak, who has led a strong effort against Islamic extremist groups in Egypt, praised the pope as "a man of courage, wisdom and tolerance," and an ally in the struggle against fanaticism and hatred. At a series of meetings, Egyptian religious leaders dwelt on the pope's efforts for peace and in particular his defense of Palestinian rights. But the

fcv>?4^

March

The Catholic News & Herald

Cultural survival

depends on

DENVER

(CNS)

—

"That doesn't mean blended or single-parent families will fail their children," he added. "It does mean that in those contexts, the task of parenting becomes harder, and the children in-

Preserving

union between a man and a woman is "a matter of cultural survival," Archbishop Charles J. Chaput said in a column published Feb. 27 in the Denver Rocky Mountain News. "The 'tradition' in traditional marriage, after all, is not some dead habit of the past," the Denver archbishop wrote. "It's the voice of learned and re-learned experience. Alternative arrangements don't work." Archbishop Chaput opened the column by expressing the church's support for "appropriate legislation which would class violence against

homosexuals as a

volved will have more numerous and serious obstacles to overcome." Society's response to the "extraordinary pressures" facing married couples today should be to "focus on easing those pressures and reinforcing our support for marriage, not redefining it or establishing parallel structures which erode marriage by sapping its special status,"

ing special penalties." "Whatever the content of a person's behavior, he or she never loses the right to be free from violence motivated by hate," he said. "The law can legitimately seek to ensure that." But the Catholic Church also must support "legal efforts to define marriage as a unique relationship between

fact

to thrive."

"Tinkering with the identity of marriage tinkers with the welfare of children," Archbishop Chaput wrote. "If the last few decades have shown

When

consid-

couples the same legal protections and benefits as married couples. At a Feb. 17 clergy rally at the Vermont Statehouse in Montpelier, Bishop Angell said people sometimes ask, "What would Jesus do?" about same-sex marriages. "I believe that he would rule on the side of 'love,'" the bishop said. "He always does, but he would also rule on the side of law, the law of God who loves us beyond our comprehension." t

that marriage's unique legal status "exists largely to protect the children

it's this:

that

The state Supreme Court in December ruled that Vermont laws discriminated against gay and lesbian couples and ordered that state laws be changed to give same-sex

that status," the archbishop said.

us anything,

bill

same-sex marriages in the state. In Vermont, Bishop Kenneth A. Angell of Burlington has been at the forefront of an effort to defend traditional marriage and to keep the state Legislature from approving same-sex marriages or domestic partnerships.

one man and one woman; to protect and advance marriage's privileged status in society; and to exclude other types of relationships from sharing in

who depend on marriage

Legislature

said.

would define marriage as the union of one man and one woman and exclude the possibility of legalizing

'hate crime' involv-

That support derives from the

Archbishop Chaput

The Colorado ering a

'traditional'

marriages dissolve, the children of those marriages suffer," he said.

2000

Pilgrimages, from page 7

preserving marriage, archbishop says the status of traditional marriage as a

the News

words of greeting. In extemporaneous remarks, the sheik and the pope quoting, respectively, the Koran and St. Thoagreed that Islam mas Aquinas and Christianity shared several basic

—

beliefs

about the place of religion

human development. The sheik later announced he would make an unprecedented

the Vatican next

visit to

fall

to participate in dialogue sessions.

Pope Shenouda

old patriarch of about 4 million Coptic Orthodox Christians in Egypt, welcomed the pontiff to his residence the same day with a speech extolling ecumenical cooperation. The bearded patriarch escorted the pope

from room to room as small children scattered flower petals in their path.

The pope

repeatedly praised the

Coptic church, Orthodox and Cathoand its ancient history of keeping the faith, even to the point of martyrdom an allusion to the harsh persecution of Egyptian Christians in ear-

lic,

—

lier centuries.

Speaking

an ecumenical prayer

service in Cairo's Catholic cathedral

Feb. 25, the pope traced the "painful" split among the Christian community

back to the

fifth

century and urged

new momentum toward tion

—

reconcilia-

on the issue of pa-

specifically

pal primacy.

"Dear brothers, there

no time

lose in this regard!" he said.

At the ecumenical

One

Egypt

priest in

to lose her independence. It has

own The

Coptic patriarch broke through the when he embraced the pope and told him: "We love our country,

formality

and we love you!" The pope replied moments later, "I would like to reciprocate by saying:

traditions that

Dominican

Father Emilio Platti, a Belgian has spent 28 years in Egypt.

who

Mount The Greek Orthodox community that Even the pope's

trip to

Sinai hit an ecumenical snag.

runs the Monastery of

St.

Catherine

on the mountain welcomed the pope warmly, but deserted his Liturgy of the Word service. Greek Orthodox Archbishop Damianos said praying together would not be proper until the churches shared full communion. The pope was animated during a tour of the monastery's holy places. he reached the spot where God is said to have revealed himself to Moses in the "burning bush," he fell to his knees and prayed intensely for 10

When

minutes.

The pope planned

biblical

to continue his

pilgrimage in a

March

visit to

Jordan, Israel and the Palestinian territories. The idea, said papal aides, was to follow the progress of salvation history and in the process honor chief figures:

Abraham, Moses and

Christ. still

Vatican officials said they were looking at the possibility of an

additional visit to Damascus, Syria,

where St. Paul preached the Gospel, sometime later this year or in 2001.

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its

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Lent in the Great

March

NEWS

2000

& H E R A L D

Serving Catholics in

Western North Carolina

the Diocese of Charlotte

2 Lent

the Great Jubilee 2000

March

Guidelines for Lent 1)

lics as

The time

of Lent

by Cathopenance and works

to be observed

a special season of prayer,

of charity.

Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, in particular, are the most important penitential days of the liturgical year. They are days of both fast and absti2)

nence. All Fridays in Lent are days of abstinence. 3) The rule of fasting states the only one full meal a day can be taken. Two small meals, "Sufficient to maintain strength," are allowed, but together they should not equal another full meal. Eating between meals breaks the fast, but drinking liquids does not. The rule of fasting binds all Catholics from age 1 8 to 59. 4) Abstinence refers to the eating of meat. Under the present law, it does not include egg or milk products, meat stock soups or gravies. The rule of abstinence binds all Catholics 14 years old and older. 5) The Substantial observance of the laws of fast and abstinence is a serious obligation. Those whose work or health would be impaired are excused from fasting and abstaining. The individual conscience can decide if there is a proper cause to excuse. A more serious reason should be present to excuse from Ash Wednesday and Good Friday penance. 6) Self-imposed fasting on the other weekdays of Lent is recommended. Abstinence on all Fridays of the years is also highly recommended. The Peace

Notice

Gift of

)

First Sunday of Lent. On the third, fourth and fifth Sunday of Lent, the Scrutinies take place during Mass.

the Indulgence

The gift of the indulgence discloses the fullness of God's mercy, which is expressed primarily in the Sacrament ofPenance and Reconciliation. The ancient practice, about which there have been many historical misunderstandings, should be properly understood and accepted. Although reconciliation with God is the gift of God's mercy, it implies a process involving man with his personal efforts, and the Church with her sacramental func-

Mass later. The RCIA is incorporated into the liturgy 1 during Lent. The Rite of Election is celebrated on the neral

of the Apostolic Penitentiary

The

tion.

Pastoral of the American Bishops, stating that prayer is incomplete without penance, urges Friday abstinences as something all American Catholics should offer up for the sake of world peace. 7) Parents and teachers should see to it that even those who are not bound by the laws of fasting and abstinence because of age are brought up in an atmosphere that is conducive to a sense of penance. 8) The faithful should be clearly and positively encouraged to receive the Sacrament of Penance during Lent. There should be adequate time scheduled for Confessions before Easter. Group penance services should not be scheduled for the last days of the Holy Week. At no time is it permitted to schedule a group penance service for the purpose of giving general absolution without individual Confessions. 9) The liturgical directions of the Sacramentary and the Lectionary must be faithfully observed regarding all the special Holy Week Rites. 10) Funeral Masses are not allowed on Holy Thursday, Good Friday or Holy Saturday. The funeral Rite outside of Mass can be held either in church or at the chapel on those days, with a Fu-

the center

of the reconciliation process

the

treasury of the satisfactions of Christ and the saints." 2. In general, the gaining of indulgences requires certain prescribed conditions (below, nn. 3,4), and the performance of certain prescribed works (nn. 8, 9, 10 indicate those specific to the 3. it is

Holy Year).

gain indulgences, whether plenary or partial,

necessary that the faithful be in the

state of grace at time the indulgences work is completed. plenary indidgence can be gained only once a

least at the 4.

What do

sin and penance have to do with the celebration of the Millennium? The jubilee year 2000 is for the Church "a year of the Lord's favor, the year of the remission of sins and of the punishment due to them, a year of reconciliation between disputing parties, a year of manifold conversions and of sacramental and extra-sacramental penance." 1 With these words the Holy Father reminds us of the importance of reconciliation and specifically the celebration of the Sacrament of Penance in the life of the church.

Why do we need the Sacrament of Penance? "Because of human weakness. .Christians and even break off their friendship with God by sinning. The Lord, therefore, instituted a special Sacrament of Penance for the pardon of sins committed after baptism (See John 20:21-23) and the Church has faithfully celebrated the sacrament throughout the centuries in varying ways, but retaining its essential elements." [Sacred Congregation for Divine Worship^) What happens in the 'leave their first love' (See Rev. 2:4)

Sacrament of Penance? In the Sacrament of Penance "the sinner who by the grace of a merciful God, embraces the way of penance, comes back to the Father who 'first loved us' (l Jn 4:19), to Christ who gave himself up for us, and to the Holy Spirit who has been poured out on us abundantly." [Rite of Penancej3 Likewise, "those who by grave sin have withdrawn from the communion of love with God are called back in the Sacrament of Penance to the life they have lost. And those who through daily weakness fall into venial sins draw strength from a repeated celebration of penance to gain the full freedom of the children

of God." Reprinted from www.nccbuscc.org,

day. In order to obtain

addition to being in the state of grace:

site for the

ment, he continues to be marked by those "remnants" which prevent him from beingfully open to grace, and he needs purification and that renewal of the whole person

• have the interior disposition of complete detachment from sin, even venial sin; • have sacramentally confessed their sins; • receive the Holy Eucharist (it is certainly better to receive it while participating in Holy Mass, but for the indulgence only Holy Communion is required); • pray for the intentions of the Supreme Pontiff. 5. It is appropriate, but not necessary, that the sacramental Confession and especially Holy Communion and the prayer for the Pope's intentions take place on the same day that the indulgenced work is performed; but it is sufficient that these sacred rites and prayers be carried out within several days (about 20) before or after the indulgenced act. Prayer for the Pope's intentions is left to the choice of the faithful, but an "Our Father" and a "Hail Mary" are suggested. One sacramental Confession suffices for several plenary indulgences, but a separate Holy Communion and a separate prayer for the Holy Father's intentions are required for each plenary indulgence. 6. For the sake of those legitimately impeded, confessors can commute both the work prescribed and the conditions required (except, obviously, detachment from even venial sin). 7. Indulgences can always be applied either to oneself or to the souls of the deceased but they cannot be applied to other persons living on earth.

and

through Christ's grace. indulgence

obtain

this,

the gift

the

a great help to him.

An indidgence is "a remission before God of the tempopunishment due to sins whose guilt has already been forgiven, which the faithful Christian who is duly disposed gains under certain prescribed conditions through the action of the Church which, as the minister of redemption, dispenses ral

and

applies with authority the treasury

Christ

and the

mae de 21;

cf.

satisfactions

saints" (Enchiridion Indulgentiarum,

Nor-

indulgentiis, Libreria Editrice Vaticana 1999, p.

Catechism of the Catholic Church,

n. 1471 ). of the Apostolic Penitentiary the necessary dispositions for fruitfully gaining the

The following recalls

of the

notice

Jubilee indulgence.

The celebration of the Jubilee Year is not only an extraordinary occasion for benefiting from the great gift of indulgences which the Lord gives us through the Church, but it is also a fitting opportunity to recall the catechesis on indulgences to the attention of the faithful. The Apostolic Penitentiary is therefore publishing this sacred notice for the benefit of all who will be making Jubilee visits. 1.

General remarks on indulgences This is how an indulgence is defined

in the

Code of Canon haw (can. 992) and in the Catechism of the Catholic Church (n. 1471): "An indulgence is a remission before God of the temporal punishment due to sins whose guilt has already been forgiven, which the faithful Christian who is duly disposed gains under certain prescribed conditions through the action of the Church which, as the minister of redemption, dispenses and applies with authority the

the faithful must, in

Specific Aspects of the Jubilee Year Having fulfilled the necessary conditions in nn. 3-4, the faithful may gain the Jubilee indulgence by performing one of the following works, listed here below in three categories: 8. Works of piety or religion Either make a pious pilgrimage to a Jubilee shrine or place (for Rome: one of the four Patriarchal Basilicas St. Peter, St. John Lateran, St. •

—

2000

The Sacrament of Penance and the Jubilee Year

Sacrament of Penance, but even after the human being has received forgiveness for his sin through this sacra-

it,

official

web

National Conference of Catholic Bishops

the U.S. Catholic Conference.

Mary Major,

Paul, or to the Basilica of the

St.

Holy

Laurence in Campo Verano, the Shrine of Our Lady of Divine Love or one of the Christian Catacombs, and participate there in Holy Mass or another liturgical celebration (Lauds or Vespers) or some pious exerCross

in Jerusalem, the Basilica

St.

cise (the Stations of the Cross, the rosary, the recita-

tion of the Akathistos

Or make

Hymn,

etc);

group or individually, to one of these same Jubilee places, and there spend some time in Eucharistic adoration and pious meditations, ending with the "Our Father", the profession of faith in any approved form and prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary. •

a pious

visit,

as a

Works of mercy or charity Either visit for a suitable time their brothers or sisters in need or in difficulty (the sick, the imprisoned, the elderly living alone, the handicapped, etc.), as if making a pilgrimage to Christ present in them; 9. •

•

support

by a

significant contribution works

religious or social nature (for

dren,

young people

of a

the benefit of abandoned chil-

in trouble, the elderly in need, foreign-

ers in various countries seeking better living conditions); •

activities

devote a suitable part of personal free time to benefiting the

forms of personal 10. Acts

For

community or other similar

sacrifice.

ofpenance

at least

one whole day

Either abstain from unnecessary consumption (smoking, alcohol, etc.); •

• •

Or fast, Or abstain from meat (or

other food according to

the specific norms of the Bishops' Conferences), and donate a proportionate sum of money to the poor.

March

2000

Lent and the Great Jubilee 2000 3

with you always, to the close of the age.

— Mt 28:20

Dear

and

brothers

Lent 2000

sisters,

This year, the celebration of Lent, a time of conversion and reconciliation, takes on a particular character, occurring as it does during the Great Jubilee of the Tear 2000. The time of Lent is in fact the culminating point of the journey of conversion and reconciliation which the jubilee, the year of the Lord's favor, offers to all the 1.

faithful, so that they can

renew

their fidelity to Christ

deeply into this "mystery hidden

them

God and

come face

to face

for ages" (Eph

3:9): It

with the word of the living

urges them to give up their

own

selfishness in

order to receive the saving activity of the Holy Spirit. 2. We were dead through sin (cf. Eph 2:5): This is

Paul describes the situation of man without Christ. This is why the Son of God wished to unite himself to human nature, ransoming it from the slavery of sin and death. a slaveiy which man experiences every

he perceives

Sometimes happened

deep roots in his

its

shows

itself in

own

heart

(cf.

day, as

dramatic and unusual ways, as

of the great tragedies of the 20th century, which deeply marked the lives ofcountless communities and individuals, the victims of cruel violence. Forced deportations, the systematic elimination ofpeoples, contempt for the fundamental rights of the person: These are the which even today humiliate humanity. In daily life, too, we see all sorts offorms offraud, hatred, the destruction ofothers, and lies ofwhich man is both the victim and source. tragedies

marked by sin. Its tragic condition reminds us of alarm uttered by the Apostle to the nations: is

of the cry "None is righteous,

no,

not one"

(Rom

Ps 14:3). and man's

3:10; cf

3. In the face of the darkness of sin incapacity to free himself on his own, there appears in all its splendor the saving work of Christ: "God appointed

him as a

sacrificefor

reconciliation, through faith, by the shedding of his blood, and so showed his justness" (Rom 3:25). Christ is the Lamb who has taken upon himself the sin of the world (cf. Jn 1:29). He shared in human life "unto deat/i, even death on a cross" (Phil 2:8), to ransom mankind

from

of evil and restore humanity to its original dignity as children of God. This is the paschal mystery in which we are reborn. Here, as the Easter Sequence says, the slavery

"Death with fathers

life

contended, combat strangely ended."

of the church

The

affirm that in Christ Jesus, the devil

attacks the whole of humanity and ensnares, it in death, from which, however, it is freed through the victorious power of the resurrection. In the risen Lord, death's power is broken and mankind is enabled, throughfaith, to enter into communion with God. To those who believe,

God's very

life is

given, through the action

Spirit, the "first gift to those

who

of the Holy

believe" (Eucharistic

Prayer IF). Thus the redemption accomplished on the cross renews the universe and brings about the reconciliation of God and man, and ofpeople with one another.

The jubilee

which we are invited to open ourselves in a particular way to the mercy of the Father, who in the Son has stooped down to man, and to reconciliation, the great gift of Christ. This year 4.

the time

of grace

therefore should become, not only for Christians but also all people ofgood will, a precious moment for experiencing the renewing power of God's forgiving and recon-

for

God

ciling love.

time, tired

fullness of

2000

to set

par

During portunities

out on the path that leads to

In this context, Lent of the Holy Year excellence "the acceptable time ... the day of 6:2), the

tunity "to be reconciled to the

particularly favorable oppor-

God"

Holy Year

for personal and community

Diocese of Charlotte

reconciliation.

where

the faith-

to the

Holy Land and

Rome, which are

special places

(704) 334-2283 Basilica of St.

Haywood

Lawrence

Street, Asheville

(828) 252-6042

Our Lady of Grace 2205 West Market Street, Greensboro (336) 274-6520

to the

lenges

How

wisdom and in stature, and in favor with God and man" (Lk 2:52); there he "went about all the cities and villages preaching the Gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every infirmity" (Mt 9:35); there he accomplished the mission entrusted to him by the Father (cf. Jn 19:30) and poured out the Holy Spirit upon the infant church (cf. Jn 20:22). "increased in

...

during Lent of the year 2000, to to the places where our faith began, in order to celebrate the 2,000th jubilee of the incarnation. I invite all Christians to accompany me with their prayers, while I myself on the various stages of the I,

too, hope, precisely

be a pilgrim in the

Holy Land,

pilgrimage, shall ask for forgiveness the sons and daughters of the church 5.

The path of conversion

God and tofullness of new and

love.

These three

and reconciliation for andfor all humanity.

leads to reconciliation with

in Christ.

life

virtues,

known

virtues because they refer directly to

A life offaith,

hope

as the "theological"

God

in his mystery,

have been the subject of special study during the three years ofpreparation for the great jubilee. The celebration of the

Holy Year now

calls every

Christian to live

and bear

and more conscious way. The grace of the jubilee above all impels us to renew

witness to these virtues in a fuller

our personal faith. This consists in holding fast to the proclamation of the Paschal Mystery, through which believers recognize that in Christ crucified

the

and

risen from

dead they have been given salvation. Day by day they

offer

him

their lives; they accept everything that the

the "yes"

of individuals

Jews, Christians

God,

Lord

God loves them. it is

Faith their "Amen.

and Muslims

alike,

Abraham

exemplar of the believer: Trusting in the promise, he follows the voice of God calling him to set out on unknown paths. Faith helps us to discover the signs of God's loving presence in creation, in people, in the events the

of histoiy and above

all in the

work and message of

beyond themselves, beyond appearances, toward that transcendence where the mystery of God's love for every creature is revealed.

Through

the grace of the jubilee, the Lord likewise renew our hope. In fact, time itself is redeemed in Christ and opens up to a prospect of unending joy andfull communion with God. For Christians, time is marked by an expectation of the eternal wedding feast, invites us to

therefore look the chal-

confident

born offaith in the Lord's promise.

the Lord asks us to The kingdom which Christ will

reveal in its full splendor at the end of time is already present where people live in accordance with God's will.

land which 2,000 years ago witnessed the passage of the Lord? There "the Word became flesh" (Jn

and

They

the jubilee, finally,

rekindle our charity.

spiritually, to the

1:14)

which

Through

encounter with God, because of their unique role in the history of salvation. could we fail to set out, at least

its fullness.

new millennium without fear, and face and expectations of the future in the

certainty

Christ, as he inspires people to look

St. Patrick Cathedral 1621 Dil worth Road East, Charlotte

will cause to germinate in

through the sacrament of reconciliation to set out on a new path of life. Particular significance attaches to pilgrimage

the

5:20).

diocese has designated special places

For

Cor

the church offers various op-

ful can go in order to experience a particular presence of God, by recognizing in his light their own sinfulness, and

Churches

willing to

life.

wills for them, in the certainty that

Pilgrimage

whoever

and doubtful. The people of of mediocrity and false hopes, are thus

salvation" (2 Cor

Each

mercy

offers his

even to the distant

it,

given an opportunity

7:11).

in the course

Humanity

the Vatican Jan. 27.

our

how

St.

This

—

VATICAN CITY (CNS) Here is the Vatican text of Pope John Paul IPs Lenten message for 2000, released at

and

proclaim his mystery of salvation with renewed ardor in the new millennium. Lent helps Christians to enter more leads

The church is called to bear witness to the communion, peace and charity which are the kingdom's distinguishing marks. In this mission, the Christian community knows that faith without works charity,

vealed in Christ, the

dead

(cf.

Jas 2:1 7). Thus, through

make visible God's love for man reand make manifest Christ's presence in close of the age. " For Christians, charity

Christians

world

"to the

not just a gesture or an ideal but is, so to speak, the prolongation of the presence of Christ who gives himself During Lent, everyone rich and poor is is

—

make

invited to

—

Christ's love present through generous

works of charity. During

this jubilee

year our charity

way to manifest Christ's love to our brothers and sisters who lack the necessities of life, who suffer hunger, violence or injustice. This is the way to make the ideals of liberation and fraternity found in the called in a particular

sacred Scripture a reality, ideals which the Holy Year puts before us once more. The ancient Jewish jubilee, in fact, called for the freeing debts, the

of slaves, the cancellation of giving of assistance to the poor. Today, new

forms of slavery and more tragic forms ofpoverty afflict vast numbers of people, especially in the so-called Third World countries. This is a cry of suffering and despair which must be heard and responded to by all those walking the path of the jubilee. How can we ask for the grace of the jubilee if we are insensitive to the needs of the poor, if we do not work to ensure that all have what is necessary to lead a decent life?

May the millennium which is beginning be a time when, finally, the cry of countless men and women our brothers and sisters who do not have even the minimum

—

necessary to live response. It

—

is heard and finds a benevolent hope that Christians at every level will

become promoters of practical

initiatives to ensure an of resources and the promotion of the complete human development of every individual. 6. "I am with you always, to the close of the age. " These words of Jesus assure us that in proclaiming and living the Gospel of charity we are not alone. Once again, during this Lent of the year 2000, he invites us to return to the Father, who is waiting for us with open arms to trans-

equitable distribution

form us into living and effective signs of his merciful love. To Mary, mother of all who suffer and mother of divine mercy, we .entrust our intentions and our resolutions.

May

she be the bright star on our journey in the

anticipated daily at the eucharistic table.

new millennium.

ward

I invoke upon everyone the beginning and the end of all things, to whom we raise "to the close of the age" the hymn of blessing and praise in Christ: "Through him, with

Looking forSpirit and Bride say

to the eternal banquet "the 'Come'" (Rev 22:17), nurturing the hope that frees time from mere repetition and gives it its real meaning.

Through

the virtue

of hope, Christians bear witness to beyond all evil and beyond every limit, history bears within itself a seed of good which the Lord the fact that,

With

blessings

these sentiments

of God, one and

triune, the

him, in him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honor is yours, almighty Father, for ever and ever. Amen.

March

4 Lent and the Great Jubilee 2000

First Station:

children, for indeed, the days are

Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane Then Jesus came with them to a place called

Stations

Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples, "Sit here while I go over there and pray." He took along Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to feel sorrow and distress. Then he said to them, "My soul is sorrowful even to death. Remain here and keep watch- with me." He advanced a

and

little

§|

saying,

fell

"My

prostrate in prayer,

Father,

if it

pos-

cup pass from me; not as I will, but as you will." When he returned to his disciples he found them asleep. He said to Peter, "So you could not keep sible, let this

yet,

not undergo the is weak."

test.

The

— Matthew

spirit is willing,

The following stations of the cross are based on those celebrated by Pope John Paul II on Good Friday 1991. They are presented here as an alternative to the traditional stations and as a way of reflecting more deeply on the Scriptural accounts of Christ's passion. The stations shown here are located within Sacred Heart

that is, the whole Sanhedrin, held a council. They bound Jesus, led him

away, and handed him over to Pilate. Pilate questioned him, "Are you the king of the Jews?" He said to

him

one of the Twelve, arrived, accompanied by a crowd with swords and clubs, who had come from the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders. His betrayer had arranged a signal with them, saying, "the ing, Judas,

shall kiss

Again Pilate questioned him, "Have you no answer? See things.

how many things they accuse you of." Jesus gave him no further answer, so that Pilate was amazed.... Pilate, wishing to sat-

Barrabas... fied.

—

Mark

— Mark is

Third Station:

Jesus

When

Condemned by the Sanhedrin

day came the council of elders of the people met, both chief priests and scribes, and they brought him before their Sanhedrin. They said, "If you are the Messiah, tell us," but he replied to them, "If I tell you, you will not believe, and if I question, .you will not respond. But from this time on the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the power of God." They all asked, "Are you

his

own

then the Son of God?" He replied to them, "You say that I am." Then they said, "What further need have we for testimony? have heard it Luke 22: 66-7 mouth."

—

criminals there, one on his right, the

other on his left. [Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, they know not what

they do."]

— Luke

23:

33-34

15: 1-5, 15

Now

one of the criminals hanging

there reviled Jesus, saying, "Are you

not the Messiah? Save yourself and us." The other, however, rebuking him, said in reply, "Have you no fear of God, for you are subject j m to the same condemnation? And indeed, we have been con- I demned justly, for the sentence I we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal." Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." He replied to him, "Amen, I say to you, today you will be with Paradise." Luke 23: 39-43

—

Then

Scourged and Crowned with Thorns

in'

Pilate took Jesus

Now

Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard. of the maids came over to him and said, "You too were with Jesus the Galilean." But he denied it in front of everyone, saying, "I do not know

One

what you are talking about!" As he went out to the gate, another girl saw him and said to those who were there, "This man was with Jesus the Nazorean." Again he denied it with an oath, "I do not know the man!" A little later the bystanders came over and said to Peter, "Surely you too are one of them; even your speech gives you away." At that he began to curse and to swear, "I do not know the man." And immediately a cock crowed. Then Peter remembered the word that Jesus had' spoken: "Before the cock crows you will deny me three times." He went out and began to Matthew 26: 69-75 weep bitterly.

—

Twelfth Station:

Jesus Speaks to His Mother and the Disciple Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his; mother's sister, Mary the wife oa

and had

him scourged. And the soldiers wove a crown out of thorns and placed it on his head, and clothed him in a purple cloak, and the)' came to him and said, "Hail, King of the Jews!" And they struck him repeatedly. John 19: 1-3

Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he lovedi he said to his mother, "Woman, behold, your son." Then he said to the disciple, "Behold, your mother." And from that hour the

When

—

Seventh Station: Jesus Bears the Cross

When 'mi.

the chief priests and the guards saw [Jesus] they cried out, "Crucify him, crucify him!" Pilate said to them, "Take him yourselves and crucify

Fourth Station: Jesus is Denied by Peter

him.

They no guilt in him." "Take him away, take him

find

cried out,

...

away! Crucify him!" Pilate said to them, "Shall I crucify your king?" The chief priests answered, "We have no king but Caesar." Then he handed him over to them to be crucified. So they took Jesus, and carrying the cross himself he went out to what is called the Place of the Skull, in Hebrew, John 19: 6, 15-17 Golgotha.

—

Jesus is Helped by Simon the Cyrenian to Carry the Cross

They pressed

into service a

passer-by, Simon, a Cyrenian, who was coming in from the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to

carry his cross.

— Mark

15:

Ninth Station:

Jesus Meets the Women of Jerusalem

Jesus

Judged by Pilate

chief priests with the elders and the scribes,

home.

disciple took her into his

— John

19:

25-27*

Thirteenth Station:

Jesus Dies on the Cross It was now about noon and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon because of an eclipse of the sun. Then the veil of the temple was torn down the middle. Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Father, into your

hands I commend my spirit"; and when he had said this he breathed his last.

— Luke

23:

44-46

Fourteenth Station: Jesus is Placed in the Tomb

Eighth Station:

large crowd of people followed

Jesus, including

many women who

mourned and lamented him. Jesus Fifth Station:

The

called

him and the

Sixth Station:

Jesus

from

crowd, released isfy the [and] handed [Jesus] over to be cruci-

43-46

14:

"You say so." The him of many

in reply,

chief priests accused

the one; arrest

the Skull, they crucified

in Salisbury, N.C.

but the

25: 36-41

him and lead him away securely." He came and immediately went over to him and said, "Rabbi." And he kissed him. At this they laid hands on him and arrested him.

Tenth Station: Jesus is Crucified When they came to the place

Eleventh Station: Jesus Promises His Kingdom to the Good Thief

Second Station: Jesus, Betrayed by Judas, is Arrested Then, while [Jesus] was still speak-

man

coming when

—

watch with me for one hour? Watch and pray that you may flesh

2000

people will say, 'Blessed are the barren, the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed.' At that time, people will say to the mountains, 'Fall upon us!' and to the hills, 'Cover us!' for if these things are done when the wood is green what will happen when it is dry?" Luke 23: 27-31

the Cross

Church

turned to them and said, "Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me; weep instead for yourselves and for your

When

was evening, there came

man from Arimathea named Joseph, who was himself a disciple of Jesus. He went to Pilate and a rich

asked for the body of Jesus; then Pilate ordered it to be handed over. Taking the body, Joseph wrapped it [in] clean linen and laid it in his new tomb that he had hewn in the rock. Then he rolled a

huge stone across the entrance to the tomb and departed. Matthew 27: 57-60

—

Photo illustrations by Julie Radcliffe

March

2000

The Catholic News & Herald 9

the New*

Diocese to celebrate regional Rites of Election JIMMY ROSTAR By

Church through study, prayer and

Associate Editor

The regional celebrations of the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion have become compre-

liturgical celebrations.

Bishop William G. Curlin will join Catholics throughout the Diocese of Charlotte later this month in bringing

The

Rite of Election and Call to

Continuing Conversion

hundreds of men and women a step closer to the Catholic Church. Bishop Curlin will celebrate the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion at three sites between March 12-16. The rite is a key step in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, the process by which men and women fully enter the Catholic

will be cel-

hensive diocesan events in the past

ebrated at the following sites: • Basilica of St. Lawrence, 97

few years. Diocesan and parish offiinvolved in the RCIA have said that gatherings such as this do much to raise the awareness of the community regarding the Christian Initia-

Haywood

cials

on March

St. in Asheville,

12 at 3 p.m.; •

Pius X Church, 2210 N. Elm Greensboro, on March 15 at

St.

tion process.

7:15 p.m.; St.

•

The RCIA

Matthew Church, 8015

Ballantyne Charlotte,

Commons Parkway

March

Mission.

months to several years, and it involves periods of inquiry, formal instruction, sacramental preparation eral

16 at 7:15 p.m.

Sponsor a Child

process can take sev-

at a Catholic

Affordable!

It's

and formation in church life. The Rite of Election and Call to Continuing

Conversion is the second of three major rites in the RCIA. It marks the

end of the period of discernment During its

called the catechumenate.

celebration, participants affirm their desire to continue their preparation for full reception into the church.

The Rite of Election is celebrated for catechumens, participants who have not been baptized and who prepare to receive the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and Communion during the Easter vigil Mass. The Call to Continuing Conversion is for candidates, those who have been baptized and who will receive the sacraments of confirmation and Communion. Traditionally celebrated during early Lent, the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion in-

RCIA

vites

Your opportunity

help a very poor child

much

participants to sincere

personal reflection and preparation while also calling the community of

And Christian Foundation for Children and Aging (CFCA), an international Catholic sponsorship program can show you the affordable way.

faith

Through CFCA you sponsor a child for the amount you can afford. Ordinarily it takes $20 a month to provide one poor child with the life-changing benefits of

Contact Associate Editor Jimmy Rostar by calling (704) 370-3334 or email jtrostar@charlottediocese.org.

too important to miss.

sponsorship. But

you

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this is not possible for you,

we invite

support catechumens and t

candidates in their faith journey,

OFFICE OF PLANNED GIVING

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And you can be assured your pledge has its greatest impact because our programs are directed by dedicated Catholic missionaries with a long-standing

True

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country, letters from your child

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my desires than endure the

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March

10 The Catholic News & Herald

2000

Read Book Review

Author chronicles faith stories of famous, obscure sportsmen News Service Mass. (CNS)

WORCESTER, Much

March

COX

By MICHAEL Catholic

Word to Life 1)

"Men

of Spirit,

Men

By JEFF

By Wally Carew

skillfully

own

stories with his

childhood joys

and sorrows growing up in Concord in the 1950s as the son of the town's legendary football coach. "It combines two of my greatest competitive athletics and my loves faith," said Carew, a newspaper man who spent 25 years as a sportswriter

—

and columnist for

New England

newspapers. Publisher Gerard E. Goggins said the work is about much more than sports stories. It's about human relationships and the often difficult relationship between parents and their children.

To modern CNS PHOTO

Walter R. Carew Sr. was a Battle of the Bulge survivor and coach of Concord High School football through much of a stretch from 194655 when the team had a 58-0-1 record. He was also a gifted athlete, his son says, who would have played baseball for the Brooklyn Dodgers were it not for the war.

came to football, his son Wally Carew Sr. was one of the it

who brought

the Gospel

to the gridiron. His faith

was some-

thing both his son and players admired most about him. Wally, 55, still lives in Medford with his wife, Mary Rose. He is a former writer with the Lowell Sun

and Medford Mercury and is still a regular contributor with the Archdiocese of Boston's newspaper, The In his book,

some of the

athletes this century are

who

readers,

it is

The

seek to de-

stroy that image.

But we must never forget that destroying Jesus' body built his

racism depicted

so unfair, so ingrained, it seems impossible that it could be defeated both in law, and in fact, for the in so short a time. most part 14-year-old has asked vehemently how people could have lived

church, that novels such as "To Kill a Mockingbird" helped deal a death blow to racism enshrined in law and that nearly 30 years after "Roe vs. Wade," a new birth of freedom

manner, never- giving

quickly, unexpectedly, like a resur-

people a chance just because of the color of their skin. "It's just like abortion," she said. And she was right. In "To Kill a Mockingbird," Tom Robinson, a black man with a withered right arm, is convicted of a rape

rection or as the fruit of an orga-

—

such

for the

nized

Tlien he said to them: evil

one?

'Is it

permitted

To preserve

life

—

movement

for freedom.

Question: Do you seek to work against your natural prejudices to help you respond to all people as individuals with inherent worth and dignity?

he could not have committed. Today, millions of unborn children are not J

unborn may yet dawn,

do a good deed on the Sabbath

or destroy

it?'"

— Mark

or an

3:4 ab.

greatest

among

Weekly Scripture

those

on the spiritual strength that sustained them through their careers.

Carew said he did all the interviews by phone, except one, a candid interview in which former Boston College basketball coach Jim O'Brien

MEN OF SPIRIT,

See

page

Readings for the week of Mar. 5 - 11, 2000 Sunday (Ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time), Deuteronomy 5:12-15, 2 Corinthians 4:6-11, Mark 2:23-3:6; Monday, 2 Peter 1:2-7, Mark 12:1-12; Tuesday (Sts. Felicity and Perpetua), 2 Peter 3:12-15, 17-18, Mark 12:13-17; Ash Wednesday (Fast and Abstinence), Joel 2:12-18, 2 Corinthians 5:20-6:2, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18; Thursday (St. Frances of Rome), Deuteronomy 30:15Friday (Abstinence), Isaiah 58:1-9, Matthew 9:14-15; 20, Luke 9:22-25; Saturday, Isaiah 58:9-14, Luke 5:27-32

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t Religious

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Robinson. God's image is in every unborn child. Jesus still grieves

seem out of the Stone Age instead of the recent past.

plot with the Herodians

how they might destroy him." God's image was in

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"With this book it was like Wally was coming to terms with himself," Goggins told The Catholic Free Press, newspaper of the Worcester Diocese. "Wally' s relationship with his father stuck in his throat for 50 years, and I think he had to write this book to finally come to terms with it."

went began to sees

deep South of the mid- 1930s.

says,

combines those

perfectly restored.

evening, growing in appreciation of this moving depiction of life in the

rare coaches

Carew

HENSLEY

News Service daughter Amy's eighth-

grade class has been reading the 1961 Pulitzer Prize winning novel "To Kill a Mockingbird." It is a great book. I've been reading it to her chapter by chapter each

When

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"He looked around at them with anger, for he was deeply grieved that they had closed their minds against him. Then he said to the man, 'Stretch out your hand.' The man did so, and his hand was

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81:3-8, 10-1

Corinthians 4:6-11 3) Gospel: Mark 2:23-3:6

Bernard's High School

and inspiring stories of both worldfamous and little-known athletes of the 20th century. The book provides rare glimpses into men of great faith, including Mike Ditka, Bob Cousy, Jimmy O'Brien, Jackie Robinson, Roger Staubach and others.

Deuteronomy 5:12-15 Psalm

In the book, Carew, the son of a football coach, chronicles the

given the chance to live, also as a result of a prejudicial judgment. In today's Mark reading, Jesus knows the hearts of his accusers who are looking for a chance to trip him up. Will he heal on the Sabbath?

2) 2

March. St.

Or-

B Readings:

—

he chronicles in his new book, Wally Carew is an avid sportsman, a gifted professional and a man of great faith. Carew's first book, "Men of Spirit, Men of Sports," released late last year by Ambassador Books Inc. of Worcester, was on the Boston Globe paperback best-seller list for six of 10 weeks beginning in mid-December. A second printing was planned for like the subjects

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The Catholic News & Herald 11

Enter} errainmen

Archbishop: TV programs can aid spiritual MONTE (CNS)

CARLO,

— Television can be

life if well-chosen

Monaco a tool for

evangelization and spiritual growth if viewers are very picky about what they watch, U.S. Archbishop John P. Foley said.

"Through

we can

television,

intellectually enriched, creatively en-

tertained and spiritually uplifted; but also be tempted and, indeed,

we can

debased," said the U.S. archbishop. Archbishop Foley, president of the Pontifical Council for Social Com-

made

munications,

com-

his

ments Feb. 19 during the Monte Carlo Television Festival. Television has enabled Christians to bring the Gospel of Christ into the homes of millions of people who may not have heard it otherwise, he said.

The medium

also has

Fox Family to

dramatized

a rebellious

star in a scene from the Boys." Fitfully amusing comedy about a grouchy, pot-smoking English professor (Michael Douglas) who, daunted by the success of his first novel, is laboring to finish his second and in the process unwittingly takes an odd but gifted writing student (Tobey Maguire)

In a golden vision of light, Patrick

The

But another vision reveals he

his

—

ished.

restricted.

destined to convert the Irish, so he studies for the priesthood in Gaul

Patrick (played now by Patrick Bergin) convinces Bishop Germanus he has been selected by God to become the bishop of Ireland. The chief bishop of Britain

"St. Patrick, The Irish Legend"

EST

on the Fox Family channel

(Malcolm McDowell), however,

suspicious of Patrick and dismisses the Irish as "an uneducated, barbaric race." Nonetheless,

Christian fifth-century British village, Patrick (Luke Griffith) impulsively partakes in a midnight pagan

Patrick perse-

down heathen King walking unharmed

veres, facing

ceremony only

Laoghaire, through an inferno to prove God's might and conveniently shape-shift-

Irish raiders,

ing into a deer

to be snatched by put on a ship and sold

as a slave in Ireland.

Forced to tend sheep on the cold Patrick has time to reflect on unhappy state and turns to God.

hillsides,

his

shaky wing. performances and the picturesque campus setting enhance director Curtis Hanson's character-driven movie but they aren't enough to sustain interest in the sluggish and insubstantial narrative. Recurring recreational drug abuse, implied homosexual encounter, an extramarital affair and some rough language. The U.S. Catholic Conference classification is A-III adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R

his parents (Alan Bates and Susannah York) who are thrilled to see him alive six years after he van-

Irish

"Wonder

Skillful

work. Escaping slavery, he returns to

16-year-old in a

12, 7-9 p.m.,

under

do God's

where

March

"Wonder Boys" McDormand

Michael Douglas and Frances

of St. Patrick

life

told he has been chosen to

Legend," to be shown on Sunday, March 12, 7-9 p.m. EST on the Fox Family cable channel.

Paramount Pictures

New at the Box Office feature film

air special

in "St. Patrick:

CNS photo from

brought

—

NEW

from isolation and from loneliArchbishop Foley said. At the same time, he said, by watching some television programs "we can be derailed or at least sidetracked from our journey through earthly life to eternal life with God." Archbishop Foley said Christians have an obligation to avoid watching programs that lead them away from God and to choose programs that can bring them closer to God. "Television can be a source of temptation, and it can also introduce ness,"

of the person who merely observes and does not participate in life," he said, t

News Service YORK (CNS) The life of the patron saint of the Emerald Isle is Catholic

people "a liberation from igno-

rance,

a type of slavery, not only the traditional slavery of sin, but the slavery

PARE

By GERRI

many

when

danger.

Nearly recalled from his beloved Ireland when his one in-

for tithes.

sets foot back in Ireland. His miracles

stance of teen-age idolatry is revealed, Patrick takes heart in another vision

seem more like glitzy special-effects dramatics than instances of God working through his servant.

which God confirms his place in the history of Ireland, in the church

Bergin plays the saint with the conviction of one who knows he is

and

preserving civilization.

God

invincible since

Filmed in Ireland, the visuals are lush and the background music a lyrical delight.

However, director Robert Hughes' extremely reverential treatment of his subject does make him seem more a magical legend than a

Preaching to throngs and using a shamrock to explain the Trinity, Patrick gains many converts but

human man who struggled with his mission and eventually became a

scorns the British bishops' demands

Patrick is able to deflect the blows of sword, change men into stone with a flick of his hand and drive the snakes into the sea the moment he

saint.

While the

his side.

religious ideas expressed

are inspirational,

it is the overly pious treatment that reduces a saint of the early church to more of a mythical figure whose reality is shrouded in

centuries of Irish mist.

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12 The Catholic News & Herald

March

& Columns

Editorials

Committing to the Paschal Mystery Each Ash Wednesday I have reverently received ashes and remained loyal to fasting on Fridays during Lent. This year, however, greater knowledge of the world around me has moved me into a deeper spirit, more consciously aware of the

Justice

& Peace

JOANNE KENNEDY FRAZER

Passion of Christ. Prayer, Scripture and the reality of life in today's society have moved me toward experiencing Lent from a different perspective. The cycles of life have become so violent and frightening that most people avoid listening to media commentaries. News reports, once a stage for

grand celebrations and

Guest Columnist

historical events,

The Church

in politics?

Is that legal?!

In fact, Catholic teaching declares that citi-

zenship

a virtue,

political process is a

and participation in the moral obligation. And dur-

ing this election year, the U.S. bishops are pressing the nation's Catholics to get politically active in order to reshape political priorities.

Catholics politics,

must enter into a "new kind of more on moral principles than polls, more on the needs of the

on the latest poor and vulnerable than the contributions of the rich and powerful, more on the pursuit of the common good than the demands of special interests," the bishops write in "Faithful Citi-

zenship: Civic Responsibility for a New Millennium," their guide for this election year. They list 10 areas for inquiry, framed around principles of Catholic teaching, against which voters and candidates can measure their positions and decisions. parishes, dioceses, schools

possible for us to watch the year unfold world-

There were

wide.

and

other Catholic institutions will encourage active participation through non-partisan voter registration and education efforts," the bishops write. To provide some how-to' s for civic responsibility, Joan Rosenhauer, special projects director of the U.S. Catholic Conference's De-

again.

How much

of the 21st century will our children present is too unpredictable to even assure a hopeful future. I am fearful that many young people will never have a desire to achieve higher goals. Anger and loneliness will grip the hearts of many before troubled minds find acceptance and peace. Some dreams will be deterred because they could not outrun the catalyst of contagious apathy. Violence will trample upon the footsteps of aspiring leaders and academic scholars. Too many others will roam unnoticed and never hear the encouraging words that build character. Presently, I minister in Forsyth County, the county with, the highest infant mortality rate than any other county in the state. North Carolina has the highest infant mortality rate in the United States. The redistricting of schools in the city has led to segregated classrooms, a lack of quality edu-

The

12th.

who worked

closely with the

bishops and several other departments of the USCC in preparing this statement, will give two regional workshops in Charlotte and in

Greensboro. She will also present two special sessions, one for priests and permanent deacons and one for Catholic Social Services staffs and boards. Rosenhauer's sessions will cover Catholic teaching and principles of faithful citizenship, do's and don'ts for churches for political activities in an election year, and moral priorities for public life and questions for campaigns.

The first regional session is at St. Peter Catholic Church in Charlotte on Wednesday, March 15 from 7-9 pm. The same session will be given for the northern region at St. Pius X Church in Greensboro on Thursday, March 16 from 7-9pm. The Office of Justice and Peace is sponsoring the sessions, and all are welcome to attend these free sessions. Call (704) 370-3225 to register.

Joanne Kennedy Frazer is director of the Office of Justice and Peace, Catholic Social Services.

Letters to the Editor to

South Church

Street, Charlotte,

jskeane@charlottediocese.org.

Opinions expressed in reflect the

letters

the March 10 issue of

The Catholic News

& Herald.

Read the pope's Lent 2000 message on page 3 of "Lent and the Great Jubilee 2000."

S. Keane,

123

reserve the right edit all

views of this newspaper or

SISTER LARETTA RIVERA-WILLIAMS, RSM Guest Columnist

schools, and a reevaluation of civil rights. Throughout the world, teen-agers are killing and being killed.

What

has fueled this rising pulse of inhu-

manity to humanity? How can I be aware of the infant mortality rate? and the content of my prayers not change? How can know that people are still threatened by racial I injustices and not advocate change? Since I have seen children lost because death came too soon for a parent, how could I never open my heart to more love?

The

Paschal Mystery has to become more than memory during this holy season. It has to be held at the forefront of human actions. People have to become the eyes, hands, heart and feet of Jesus Christ. Perhaps, then, peace would spill on the earth, not blood. Maybe then, children of the world would inherit tomorrow's dreams as aspiring leada prayerful

Sister Laretta Rivera-Williams, a Sister of

of North Carolina,

director

letters.

its publisher.

High

Mercy

School.

and infect the Church. The much-balleyhooed spirit Vatican II is, I'm afraid, the spirit of the world, the spirit of ecumenism, the spirit of freedom. And before you accuse me of being an old fogey, m misty-eyed nostalgia freak longing for the 1950s, let me assure you I'm not: I'm a 29-year-old convert to Ca-

Dear Bishop Curlin, I received your letter and enclosed check for $170,000 on behalf of the Diocese of Charlotte. You and the people of your great diocese are most kind in your generosity and thoughtfulness in our time of need. I know

you have heard the

stories and seen the destruction. have been most humbled by the generosity of the people of this state and throughout the United States. Frank Schulte in his correspondence said they know well what it means to be in need in such circumstances and like you were most

As Bishop,

generous. It puts things in perspective, doesn't it? Be assured of my own prayers of thanksgiving for the kindness and generosity of the people of your great diocese. Please communicate to them my thanks on behalf of the countless thousands they have helped. May God continue to bless you and your diocese with a generous heart. F.

XXIII

considered by

many

schol-

2000 years is yet which grips the Church. While good Pope John's personal piety cannot be questioned, his judgement certainly can. Convoking the Second Vatican Council, though perhaps well-intentioned, was a disastrous mistake, as each passing year seems to demonstrate ever more clearly. By opening the Roman Catholic Church to Pope John's stated goal he inad-. the world ars to be the greatest pontiff of the last

another indication of the

—

crisis

—

has no personal experience with pre-

worship.

grown

It's

increasingly clear to

over time, however, that Pope John's Council, with or without his approval, gave rise to a New Church, one with new liturgy, new sacraments and a new theology. This New Church has its cheerleaders, certainly

—

Vatican and press officials engaged in a perPR battle to portray the Council's reform as but their rah-rah-rahs beneficial and inspiring are ringing hollow. It is no longer deniable that the reforms of Vatican II, far from renewing and energizing our priests and laity, have instead spawned devastating declines in Mass attendance, religious vocations and Church discipline. petual

—

Most II

troubling of

all,

perhaps,

the post-Vatican

preoccupation with ecumenism, a belief that

all reli-

gions are equally pleasing in God's sight and are valid

pathways to salvation. This belief, endorsed though it may be by our current pope, is unquestionably a violation of the First Commandment and Church dogma. When choosing between God and Vatican II, it seems we are now expected to choose Vatican II. j I am a convicted felon, a prison inmate. Aside from the prohibition against killing, there's not a single commandment in the Decalogue I've not broken. I'm a

Joseph Gossman, Bishop of Raleigh

who

tholicism

Thanks from Raleigh

offaith formation at Sm\ Winston-Salem. She is |lj

Benedict the Moor Church in former teacher of religious education at Charlotte Catholie

and scholars.

ers

Vatican

That Pope John XXIII will return

Joann

NC 28203 or e-mail to

or guest columns do not necessarily

Pope John "The Pope Speaks"

of Lent

vertently allowed the spirit of the world to invade

Letters to the Editor Send your

Rosenhauer,

The Season

cation in predominantly black and Hispanic

partment of Social Development and "World Peace, will be in our diocese during the week of

March

colorful costumes and festive

dances enjoyed from Australia, the Pacific Islands, Switzerland, the United States and other countries. January 1st was a day to be bottled and magically opened for unity and peace, again and again and

inherit?

focused

"We hope

2000

have be-

come a wave of nightmarish activities. As the year 2000 was birthed, technology made U.S. Bishops to Catholics: Get Politically Involved in 2000 Election

wee

bit uncomfortable, then, calling into question

some-

judgement when my own has been faulty on more than one occasion. But to promote Pope John XXIII as the most outstanding pope of the last 2000 years, when the Council he called has wreaked so much havoc upon the Church and wounded so acutely the one

else's

mystical

Body of Christ

table lapse in

—

this is a serious

judgement and should not be

Joshua Stancil, Marion,

and regretrepeated.

March

2000

Editorials

what you want to do with what you actually do. Conscience motivates will into action. For example, you recognize within yourself a yearning for spiritual truth. You cannot reach it yourself. At that moment, you know you need God if you are to attain everything for which you heart aches. For the third level of reflection, consider care-

One

Light

The Catholic News & Herald 13

& Columns

Candle

FATHER THOMAS

fully the things religion has to say to your science. What does religious truth say about J.

Elder

Ministry

con-

your

deepest yearning for truth? What about the possibilGod can enable you to move beyond yourself to share in a Will that perfects your own?

McSWEENEY

ity that

MEG SMITH

—

Guest Columnist

When

Signs of "Springtime" The word "Lent" comes from an early Saxon word for "springtime."

It's

good image

to keep in

mind

during these next forty days leading up to Easter. Lent has a way of bringing you down to earth: "Remember, you are dust and to dust you will return."

At the same

time, Lent challenges you to spend an attempt to achieve utter honesty about the state of your soul. In the process, you open yourself to a spiritual springtime a time for new

weeks

six

—

life

and the potential Spiritual

for personal

growth

growth.

measured differently for each individual, but ultimately, it depends on your personal desire to link your own will with the Will of God, the Father of all life. To get yourself started, try these three steps in your reflection. is

study your daily actions, especially those demonstrate your sense of commitment to those things that matter to you. They may First,

activities that

include your family

life, the way you go about your spend your leisure time or get involved with neighborhood concerns. Behind the priorities you give these activities is your will. Honest reflection will reveal that you cannot achieve all your goals on your own, even with the greatest effort of will. At this second stage, you begin to see more clearly how your conscience actually negotiates

job,

The moral implications of

filing

you know you cannot become what you to become by yourself alone, you can heart, mind and soul to God's gracefilled intervention. Recognizing the pure gift of faith in God's power to bring fulfillment is the final step. Your will and the Father's will become one. At Gethsemane, on the night before He died,

most want open your

Father,

possible, let this

if it is

cup

pass from

Me; yet not what I want but what You (Matthew 26:39,42) Your challenge is to make this your prayer for Lent and for life. Ask for the grace and courage to act upon the will of the Father as your own however humanly impossible it may seem. Then, you will say, "I forgive you" to someone you have never had the strength to face squarely. want... .Your will be done."

—

You

will take the risk of performing an extraordinary act of generosity and selflessness. You will find greater reasons than your own satisfaction to make a difference. You will trust and hope in the Lord rather than despair. This year, welcome the fresh, beautiful growth, not just in the natural world around you, but within

yourself. Join Jesus in praying those in the Garden of Gethsemane in

words He spoke that long-ago springtime: Choose God's Will and you choose life. Father Thomas

McSweeney

director

of The

Christophers.

Question

can't tell you. First,

you

decision.

however,

Too

often,

moral

seems, people consider

purely financial issue. begin with the fact that we're dealing here with restitution, the responsibility we have in strict justice to repay others for what we have taken from them. If I buy a pair of shoes, for example, my debt to the seller is not simply one of charity or philanthropy, something I can pay if it is convenient and agreeable. He has a moral

what is called commutative justice, to what is due him, and I have a moral duty to compensate him. Bankruptcy is one of the circumstances that excuses a person from this kind of obligation. It provides a

when

full

possible.

way to satisfy one's creditors equitably satisfaction of all debts is simply not

As you know, when an

CNS

maze you need

good attorney.

sions

down

what

to nothing. They have a right to retain necessary to support themselves and their loved ones in decency, according to their social status,

Columnist

debts one is fairly certain one will never be able to pay off is obviously wrong, both legally and mor-

equivalent to stealing. declaring bankruptcy begins to loom on anyone's horizon, another obligation is to explore what ally.

said, this is

When

settlements one might that

make with

creditors.

Sometimes

attractive to creditors than attempting

later to extract

payment from

a debtor

who

bankrupt.

and to try to re-establish their financial security. Moral obligations begin, of course, long before

any bankruptcy proceedings are

initiated.

Building

Some of these conditions result in pain and a decline of some functions that people have tended to take for granted. It is often difficult to accept help, even from loved ones. In the American culture, independence is valued highly. It can, also, be a challenge to offer assistance and advice to those who have usually been the people who gave it. As couples age together and one spouse needs more assistance, the other may need to learn complicated and physically taxing caregiving skills. When parents and family members need more help with daily chores, families are often stretched thin, balancing their time

gency services can summon assistance at the press of a button. These services can be accessed by calling cians.

sick

Fat Tuesday

Q. Please explain the significance of Fat Tuesday, day before Ash Wednesday. Some say it means to feast or pig out before Lent. Can this be correct? the

The

celebration of Mardi

Gras

the rigors of the Lenten fast goes back

in anticipation

many

centuries.

Foods forbidden during the Lenten time included meats and fats, common condiments for cooking, which would spoil by the time Easter arrived.

(Our word carnival comes,

in fact,

from a

Latin phrase which means taking away the meat.) Thus, the day before Lent began was a time to consume all the fat in the house. It also provided Christians a chance to enjoy their last pre-Lenten party, often in company with the non-Christians

around them who were spring masquerades and

and

Not much,

has changed, except the fasting.

parishes have groups

offer the Eucharist in the

and physi-

who

visit

the

home. Pastors

should be made aware of those who are unable to attend church functions regularly.

Education

important in the care of any-

Physicians, hospitals, home health agencies, the Internet and support groups offer this kind of education. Individuals and parishes can contact Catholic Social Services Elder Ministry, which can connect them with services in the area, assist in setting up education and training sessions, or provide education as needed. St. Joseph Church in Newton and Catholic Social Services Elder Ministry will cosponsor a Caregiver Support Group at St. Joseph's Holy Family Hall. The first meeting will be Wednesday, Mar. 15 at 1pm. Care will be offered for adult family members who accompany caregivers to the group. For more information, call Meg Smith at (828) 464-8442.

own

Meg

seems,

Ministry

midst of their

in the feasts.

local social service agencies

Most

one who

needs to be said that bankruptcy,

when pursued honestly, is a perfectly justifiable procedure, both legally and morally. A lot of successful and very good people have had to declare bankruptcy sometime in their lives. Some have later quietly paid part of their past debts, even though there was no legal, or probably even moral, obligation to do so. Morally speaking, insolvent persons claiming bankruptcy are not required to dwindle their possesIt

also creates the opportunity for

and neighbors to share their love and learn from their wisdom and experience. Sometimes, it creates challenges, as well. As people age, they must often learn to live with conditions of aging and health that have not yet been mastered by modern medicine.

sonal assistance. Many counties provide assistance with meals, housekeeping, errands, transportation and daily phone calls. Telephone emer-

individual or busi-

ness declares bankruptcy, state laws control the legal process in detail. For guidance through that

There are many services available to assist senior citizens and their families. Home health agencies provide nursing care, therapies and per-

FATHER JOHN DIETZEN

right, in

loved ones.

family, friends

painful. It can be even more difficult the illnesses involve memory and changes in personality traits. There are 25 million family caregivers in the United States. They are spouses, children, sisters and brothers, nieces, nephews, parents, friends and neighbors.

congratu-

for thinking of this as a serious

health, people in the United States are living longer. This allows older people to enjoy living in the community longer, in their own homes or with

when

ruptcy? My husband and I wish to buy a home, and we have a large sum of bills that are due. Filing bankruptcy might solve our problem, but would that be wrong?

and medications are discovered to maintain

ones

simply. Is

late

Serving an aging population health care becomes more sophisticated

and energy among children, spouse, work and care-giving. Experiencing the illnesses of loved

bankruptcy

I have a question I hope you will answer very it against our Catholic religion to file bank-

"My

Jesus prayed,

ill.

Smith in the

regional coordinator for Elder

Hickory•/Morganton area.

14 The Catholic News & Herald

March

Accusations of anti-Catholicism color By PATRICIA

ZAPOR

—

Bob Jones University appearance does not mean he "approves of the anti-Catholic and racially divisive views" associated with Catholics his

Some Michigan

voters also received recorded calls from Christian Coalition founder Rev. Pat Robertson, calling Rudman "a vicious bigot who wrote that conservative Christians in politics are anti-abortion zealots, homophobes and would-be censors. John McCain refused to repudiate these words."

The Bush campaign

the school.

Charges of anti-Catholicism have followed the GOP candidate around the country since he spoke

See Joann Kennedy Frazer's

cal

Christian university

South Carolina

said Rev. Robertson's calls were made independently of their organiza-

guest column, "U.S. Bishops

at the evangeli-

tion.

Detroit

Adam

to Catholics:

Get Politically

Cardinal

Maida decried

the injection of religious

bigotry into the campaign in his state. In the Feb. 25 editerracial dating as im...Page 12 tion of The Michigan moral, and its leaders Catholic, newspaper of have called Catholicism the Detroit Archdiocese, Cardinal a cult and likened it to satanism. Maida said the bishops of the United The Bob Jones University issue States are clear in their insistence that reached a peak during the Michigan the church keep out of partisan poliprimary campaign, when some voters tics. The challenge, he said, is "to be there received recorded phone calls principled without being ideological, accusing Bush of religious bigotry beto be political without being partisan, cause of his appearance and urging to be civil without being soft." support for Arizona Sen. John The Detroit Archdiocese goes to McCain. great lengths to encourage political The McCain campaign initially involvement and responsibility, he denied any involvement with the said. But "it's not our approach to calls, but later acknowledged the calls label candidates as 'pro' this or 'anti' originated with his staff. that," he added. In the days leading up to the The Texas governor, in his letter Michigan primary, Bush's campaign, to Cardinal O'Connor, released Feb. in turn, criticized McCain for not disassociating himself from former Sen. 27, said he "should have been more

Involved in

early February.

The

2000 Election"

school bans in-

Warren Rudman, McCain's cam-

clear in disassociating myself

mittee, St. Philip Neri Catholic Church,

Assistant Principal: Our Lady of Grace School, a K-8 Catholic school in Greensboro, NC, is accepting applications for an Assistant Principal for this school year. Applicants must possess the following qualifications: practicing Catholic; current teaching/ administration license for the state of NC; master's degree in education; and at least five years teaching experience. Please send resume and salary expectations to: Ms. Roberta Hutchcraft, Principal, Our Lady of Grace School, 2205 W. Market St., Greensboro, NC 27403. Deadline for applications: March 31, 2000.

Choir Director, Part-time: St. Barnabas Catholic Parish in beautiful western North Carolina (680+ families) is seeking a practicing Catholic to direct our music program. Applicant to have: experience in liturgical music and a working knowledge of Church documents on liturgy and music; keyboard skills - organ and piano; skills in sic

college degree in liturgy,

mu-

or related field preferred. Responsibilities in-

clude:

working with pastor,

commission

staff

and liturgy

festering parishioner participation

coordinating music and volunteer musicians for all liturgical services, primarily for our three Masses each Sunday and Holy Day; directing the adult and youth choirs; working with cantors and musicians; collaborating with an independent folk group. Salary: $10,000 - $12,000 range plus some benefits. Call Mary Ann Demelfy for (828)684-6098 or write to the address

Wow

Send resume and references to: Search Committee, c/o Fr. Roger Arnsparger, St. Barnabas Catholic Parish, P. O. Box 38, Arden, NC 28740. a job description.

Director of Faith Formation: St. Philip Neri Church, Fort Mill, South Carolina, a growing Catholic parish of 700 families in the suburbs of Charlotte, North Carolina, is seeking someone to direct its parish formation programs. This person would be responsible for directing K-

Road, Fort Mill,

292

Church

—

Faith Formation Office - Diocesan Regional Coordinator: Charlotte Diocese seeks person with Master's degree in Rel Ed/ allied field, five years of demonstrable successful experience in parish/diocesan work. Well-rounded in catechist formation skills. Collaborative. Sensitive to cultural minorities. Good written/oral communication skills. Position is located in the Smoky Mountain and Asheville Region. Please send resume and three

recommendation to: Dr. Chris Villapando, 1123 S. Church St., Charlotte NC

letters

28203.

March

(704)370-3246.

Application

deadline

24, 2000.

Infant Care Provider: South Charlotte. Excellent pay and flexible hours for warm and loving person who can help out busy mom with infant. Nonsmoker and references required. Please call Judy at (704) 553-8136.

Infant Care Provider: Henderson/south Buncombe County. Seeking non-smoking, experienced adult to care for infant part-time; flexible hours beginning late April. References required; pay negotiable. Call Katy at (828)698-2956.

said. "It

Catholic,

plead guilty. But

are

not Catholic-haters." It added, "All religion, including Catholicism, which teaches that sal-

by religious works or church false. Religion that makes the words of its leader, be he pope or

vation

dogma

Word

other, equal with the false. lic

...

God

We love the practicing Catho-

and earnestly desire to see him

accept the Christ of the Cross."

Bob Jones Ill's late father, former university president Bob Jones Jr., was known for calling the Catholic Mass "blasphemy" and referring to the papacy as "the religion of the antiChrist" and "a satanic system."

third Republican candidate,

former Ambassador Alan Keyes,

endorsed. The calls reportedly challenged McCain's commitment to the

spoke at the university Feb. 14 and challenged his audience to reject racial and religious bigotry. Keyes, who is black and a Catholic, noted that "there are folks who don't think I should be talking at Bob Jones Uni-

pro-life cause.

versity."

Detroit archdiocesan communications director

Ned McGrath

issued a

statement saying he told callers that the name of Catholic Voters Alert the group which made the anti-Bush calls is not affiliated with the arch-

—

But just as Keyes

to that,"

his speech "put the lie said,

enjoined to put the do, act,

"we to

lie

are, all it

and what we pray for, and how we love." t

us,

by what we and how we

diocese.

"The

reality

Classified

is,

the

word

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The Catholic News & Herald, 1 123 S. Church St., Charlotte, NC 28203. Payment: Ads may be pre-paid or billed. For information, call (704) 370-3332.

Cindi Feerick,

Successful candidate will build on a well-established process that seeks further implementation of the Re-Membering Church. Parish in initial stages of learning Stewardship and

all

its

Weekend Relief Staff. Experience preferred, but not necessary. Call Trish for more informain

tion (704)525-4673.

ramifi-

New church (1 year old) with excellent worship space (with adult immersion font). Need help in maximizing the full potential of the abundant gifts present in this community. Secretarial support provided. Competitive salary and benefits. Contact Parish Administrator, St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 940 Carmichael St., Chapel Hill, NC 27514, by April 30, for position July 1. cations.

Youth/Young Adult Ministry

college

parish. Successful candidate will build

established

program

that includes

hand

town

on a wellbells, pipe

organ, grand piano, tympani, etc. Select music for liturgies; direct/develop traditional and children's choir; coordinate with contemporary choir. Parish in initial all

its

seeking

full-time Director of

Principal: Our Lady of Perpetual Help Roman Catholic School, Rocky Mount, NC (Grades PK-5) seeks a 'principal for the 2000-2001 school year. Applicant must be practicing Catholic, hold teacher certification and principal's license (or in progress). Principal must establish residence in Rocky Mount. Send resume to: Search Committee, 331 Hammond Street, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.

lic

residential

ers located in

Youth

members of

parish

REAL ESTATE Friendship Glen: Beautiful new high quality homes/homesites. Northeast Guilford County. Large lots. Please pass the word along to those moving to (or in) the Greensboro, Reidsville, Burlington areas. Thank you. Call for brochure. Philippe White - owner/broker (336)272-1011.

FOR SALE Queen Mattress

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Inn, a Cathopregnant mothCharlotte, NC, has openings for LiveStaff:

program

tri-

community. Background in Theology. Christian Formation, and/or certification in youth try desired. Please contact Rev. Bern Campbell, CSP, P.O. Box 112, Clemson 29633 or (864)6.54-1757.

stages of implementing Stewardship and New church with excellent

30; Position available July

implement comp hensive youth ministry as described in "Renev ing the Vision." Candidate should have prior ministry experience, and be able to work

Young Adult Ministry

ramifications.

worship space. Secretarial support provjded. Competitive salary and benefits. Contact Parish Administrator, St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 940 Carmichael St., Chapel Hill, NC 27514, by April

Director:

parish (including one Hispanic) Catholic community of 1800 families in a university setting is

collaboratively with staff and

Music Ministry Director: Dynamic

Weekend House Liturgy/Catechumenate Director/Adult Formation Coordinator: Dynamic college town parish.

McGrath

Cardinal Maida's post-primary critique of campaign tactics also was directed at calls made in Michigan by Michigan Right to Life. The organization made recorded calls urging voters to support Bush, whom the National Right to Life Committee has

29715.

Joseph Angelini, 1919 S. Main St., Winston-Salem, NC 27127. For more information and/or a detailed job description, call Fr. Angelini at (336)7227001.

sympathy beyond mere

copyrighted,"

isn't

can be used and misused." At Bob Jones University, in response to the political furor, its Web site explained the school's positions, including that "if there are those who wish to charge us with being anti-

tolerance."

Munn

student preparation for Reconciliation, Eucharist, and Confirmation; coordination of RCIA and adult education. Some background and/or experience in Religious Education preferred. Send resume to Rev.

a missed opportu-

causing needless offense, which I deeply regret." New York's Republican primary is March 7. Some news sources said the letter also was sent to Catholic leaders in other states with imminent primaries. Bush told the New York cardinal that because of the cardinal's "long friendship" with members of the Bush family and the cardinal's meeting with Bush last year, he should know that the accusations of anti-Catholic views leveled against Bush are "unfair and unfounded" and such views "are personally offensive to me." Bush, whose brother and sisterin-law are Catholic, noted he has "profound respect for the Catholic

from

Director of Faith Formation: Full-time position is open at Our Lady of Mercy, a mid-size parish in Winston-Salem. Responsibilities include weekly classes for pre-school through grade 8; parent and

was

nity,

written recommendations. Person needs to recruit and train catechists and have good managerial skills. Send resume plus references to Search Com-

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

choir directing.

prejudice. It

High School, RCIA, and developing an adult education program. Person should have a master's in theology, at least three years' experience, and three

Classifieds

2000

GOP primaries

anti-Catholic sentiments and racial

paign co-chair.

News Service WASHINGTON (CNS) Texas Gov. George Bush told New York Cardinal John J. O'Connor in a Feb. 25 letter that he wanted to assure Catholic

the News

March

2000

The Catholic News & Herald 15

the News

Men

Clergy respond to Kansas cross burning By JOE BOLLIG

News Service Kan. (CNS)

Catholic

LANSING,

—

of Leavenworth also attended. The cross burning sent shock

waves throughout Leavenworth and Lansing, which adjoin each other. Timmons and Jones were awakened at about 4 a.m. on Feb. 13 by the lights of police and fire vehicles, and

cross burning outside the trailer of an

couple

interracial I

Lansing

prompted an outcry of protest and an outpouring of prayer. More than 70 people gathered in the street and narrow yard of a trailer in east Lansing for a noontime prayer vigil Feb. 16. The vigil had been or-

firefighters putting out a small fire in front of their trailer.

Someone made a crude cross out of two pieces of broken furniture, 1 by 20 inches, held together by a wire hanger. The cross had been splashed

ganized by Clergy And Church Against Race Violence, an organization based at the Central Baptist Seminary in Kansas City, Kan. Father Michael Stubbs, pastor of St. Francis de Sales Parish in Lansing, and president of the Leavenworth and Lansing Ministerial Alliance, was the local liaison between Reginald Timmons and Angela Jones, the residents of the trailer where the cross was burned, and Clergy And Church Against Race

with gasoline, set upright on the trailer hitch and set on fire. The fire didn't consume the cross, but it spread to a plastic gasoline container on the ground. Fortunately, a neighbor noticed the fire and called the Lansing fire

"We

are here to show support for the family, as well as to state to the community that this kind of thing can't be tolerated, that it must be

it's

important for us to put out the fires of hatred, and stop it from spreading throughout the community. The way for that to

happen

power of God's love." The vigil was attended by

began the

vigil, standing on grass burned black by the flames. The damage had been repaired, but pieces of melted,

ordi-

nary citizens, representatives of various faiths (including three Catholic priests), city officials

Jones stood quietly the crowd as Father Stubbs

together in

through the

plastic trailer skirting lay nearby.

After a short introduction, he. led the semicircle of people in singing "Amazing Grace," and then read from

and the acting

police chief. Several Sisters of Charity

Some may

hate.

call

may

anger.

"But

this

May

look at

another way. I look at the mind, that somehow Satan has risen up again to destroy what God has created. "So I pray that somehow or another, as we bind ourselves together, that this will be the last time in Leavenworth County that people will have to come together to combat racI

as a sickness in

ism, that

somehow we will underwe are all God's children."

A number litical

from page 10 spoke at length about his wife's death.

At the time of her death, O'Brien had two teen-age daughters.

"We call

remind you that anger destroys the vessel that holds it, and destroys what it is poured out upon," he said.

including

Timmons and

Leavenworth,

spoke to the crowd. "Some people

Timmons, a native of the area. The family had only lived in the trailer park for four months and didn't know anyone there. No unusual incidents happened before the and Timmons and Jones don't know why they were singled out. "It was intimidating," said an angry and exasperated Timmons. "This is a problem that must be addressed."

stopped," said Father Stubbs. "The firefighters put out the fire, but

A.M.E. Church

stand that

fire,

Timmons and

Ezekiel.

Jones were visibly moved when the Rev. Don Baker, pastor of the Bethel

department. The fire could have killed the couple and their three small sons, said

Violence.

Book of

the

of other people spoke,

Timmons, clergy, and poadvocates. Henry Gueary III,

chief legislative advocate in Kansas for the National Association for the

Advancement of Colored People, decried the rise of hate crimes in the United States.

urged citizen support for passage of House Bill 2309, held up for two years in the Kansas Legislature, which would enhance hate crime penalties. Lansing's acting police chief, Allan Collins, said this is the first hate crime that has occurred in town, so far as he knows, since he became part of the force in 1981. Some hate crimes may have been committed since then, but were not reported to the police, he said.

Executive Director:

Peace, Special Ministries (704) 370-3228

Elizabeth Thurbee

370-3298 fax Refugee Office; 1704)

Catholic

1704)

Justice

(704)

iSocial

Peace:

St.

370-6930

Frazer

(704)

370-3225

Gerard

A. Carter

(704)

370-3228

^ 1 l3th ANNUAL

fortably." O'Brien, he said, just took over. "It was a watershed moment that he would share that tender and delicate experience with me," Carew says. Mike Ditka, the former New Orleans Saints and Chicago Bears coach

who

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"He was the only one who called back two times," recalls Carew. "He wanted to reiterate a few

things."

The book describes how Ditka prays to calm himself down, finds comfort in the words of St. Paul, attends Bible classes and makes no apologies for living his

faith.

Writes Carew: "Ditka becomes incensed

when he

criticized for his

beliefs, particularly his

opposition to washed over today not exactly right and not exactly wrong,' Ditka says. 'Abortion abortion. 'Everything

—

is murder. If I believe something is morally wrong and against the laws of God, I am going to say so. This is my right and my duty.'" Carew says Jackie Robinson is

his all-time favorite athlete.

"What he endured

to bring

new

to a

Minihan,

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Piedmont Triad Area Office Area

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The book also profiles some lesser-known athletes including Boston Auxiliary Bishop Jerry

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Carew remembers. "In my mind I wanted to ask him about it but I didn't know how to do it com-

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16 The Catholic News & Herald

March

2000

Living the Faith

Catholic couple picked as longest married in nation DRUMS,

Pa.

(CNS)

— Susan and

Andrew Lechman, who will celebrate their 76th wedding anniversary in May, have been honored

having

for

one of the longest marriages

in the

nation.

The Lechmans, who

live

helped the couple mark their 75th wedding anniversary with family members last year by celebrating a special Mass. The Lechmans have four grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

nursing home in Drums, were born in the Freeland area; Andrew was born in 1903 and Susan in 1907. Andrew, a member of St. Mary's Byzantine Church, married Susan at her church,

John Nepomucene in Freeland, in 1924. After enduring the hardships of the Great Depression, they moved to Baltimore with their only child, Helene, during World War II. While there, they were active in the establishment "The Diocese of Scranton is thrilled that Mr. of a new parish, Most and Mrs. Lechman are being cited by Worldwide Precious Blood. In ad-

Worldwide Marriage Encounter

In addition to the Lechmans, two other couples who have been married 70 years or more were nominated for the longest marriage by the Scranton Diocese.

St.

recognized the couple on World Marriage Day in February, as did the Diocese of Scranton, where they live. Each year Marriage Encounter groups conduct an annual search for

Paulukonis, diocesan director of family

life in

"We have been

Mr. Lechman became a member of Maria the Santa

Lechman became

model love that mirrors God's unfailing

member

love."

at St.

According

couples nominated.

and are

"The Diocese of Scranton is thrilled that Mr. and Mrs. Lechman are being cited by Worldwide Mar-

finished a term as resident council

president at their nursing home,

May

Americas. the longest married couple and the Lechmans had the longest union of all

riage Encounter," said Mary Ann Paulukonis, diocesan director of family life in the Office of Parish Ministries. "We have been blessed by their efforts of nearly 76 years to model love that mirrors God's unfailing

Upon Mr. Lechman's

retirement,

the couple returned to Pennsylvania, still

active.

Last

summer he

while his wife continues to serve as vice president of the council. Helene and her daughter, Barbara Kasecamp, and several grandchildren have actively led worship at the home and shared music with the other resi-

to Colleen

Murphy,

and

faith

God"

to sustain a

mar-

riage for as long as they have.

Anna and John Ruspi of Clarks Green, married in 1930, are parishioners at St. Gregory in Clarks Green. They have one child and two grand-

20.

children.

World Marriage Day is observed on the second Sunday in February. Originating with the Worldwide

Marjorie Bell said the Lechmans are "faithful and faith-filled" and they "exemplify the joy and love of the Lord." of

the couple, the

Sileos say "you need a lot of patience

The Lechmans Good Shepherd

Marriage Encounter movement,

members in Drums,

parish

the church,

Nursing home administrator

love."

See the special "Lent and the Great Jubilee 2000" in this

June 26

issue of The Catholic

News & Herald

July 3

$1875.00*

Jho. J'AandA£on Qfmi&h Catholic Gift & Book Store

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SPECIAL BOOKS FOR LENT 1st Communion — veils, missals, Confirmation

with. IBishop

William §. Qurlin

(336) 273-2554

233

Greene

— special, unique Greensboro,

St.

rosaries, gifts

gifts

27401

Combining Canadian Shrines and destinations with impressive accommodations makes this pilgrimage with Serving Charlotte with

Bishop William G. Curlin a wonderful experience with these highlights in some of Eastern Canada's most beautiful cities:

integrity for

over

38 years!

Toronto

St.

Michael's Cathedral

St.

Joseph's Oratory

Notre Montreal

Dame Cathedral

La Basilique Notre Quebec

Dealerships

Anne De Beaupre Notre Dame Du Cap Shrine

St.

Frank LaPointe, President,

Dame

Member of St.

Gabriel Church

City

Limited space available. Mont Trembldnt

For reservations and registration, call

Joann Keane, (704) 370-3336

or e-mail jskeane@charlottediocese.org.

HONDA

Ottawa

7001 Niagara

Falls

*perienee

'Pricing based on double occupancy. Single Koom Supplement: $500

Independence

535-4444

Blvd.

honors married couples for their love for each other and their example to

are also

where Father Gerard Safko, pastor,

dents.

in Peckville.

home who nominated

CNS photo from Catholic Light

Susan and Andrew Lechman have been recognized by Worldwide Marriage Encounter as the longest married couple in the United States. The Lechman's of Drum, Pa., are to mark their 76th wedding anniversary

lic

home

the activity director at the nursing

of the CathoDaughters of the

Joseph Sileo of months after

Anthony's Church and reside

a nursing

Council of the Knights of Columbus and Mrs.

blessed by their efforts of nearly 76 years to

and

the Lechmans in 1924, have three children and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The couple, who are in their 90s, are parishioners

dition,

Marriage Encounter," said Mary Ann

the Office of Parish Ministries.

Rose

Peckville, married six

JMVIITSUBISHI

MW MOTORS

Built 6951

For

Living.™

Independence Blvd.

531-3131