Aug 6, 2004

4

7

www.charlott«cliocese.or3

Roman

Catholic

Diocese of Charlotte

Catholic

Daughters

NEWy ^RALD

Established Jan. 12, 1972

by Pope Paul VI

AUGUST

I

SERVING CATHOLICS IN WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA IN THE DIOCESE OF CHARLOTTE

2004

6,

Thirty-nine women join new court in Sylva

Dear Brothers and

VOLUME

13

PAGE 5

NO

39

Sisters in the

Bishops offer 'Faithful Citizenship'

Diocese of Charlotte, This week, two other bishops of the South and I are jointly issuing a statement entitled, "Worthy to Receive the Lamb: Catholics in Political Life and the Reception of Holy Communion." In this statement, we

Document to serve as guide for party platforms

are addressing the question of pro-abortion Catholic politicians and the reception of

Holy

STATEMENT PROMPTS HOW BASIC VALUES SHOULD SHAPE POLITICAL CHOICES

Communion.

The consistent support of abortion legislation by some Catholic public officials is a gravely

sinfiil act.

This public stance precludes

the politicians from being admitted to

Communion

pro-abortion stance.

Communion by officials

which

is

The

reception of

risks leading

O'BRIEN

Holy

CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

them

U.S. bishops offered guidance

into error regarding

on the

Special

election-year platforms for the

Assembly

Democratic and Republican form of their

in June, the bish-

parties in the

2003 document, "Faithful

"Catholics in Political Life." In that statement,

The document, approved by the Administrative Committee of the U.S. Conference of

We also appealed to pro-abortion Catholic

Catholic Bishops, "summarizes

have a change of heart and stop

the Catholic Church's teaching

supporting abortion legislation: "It is

with pastoral solicitude for everyone

involved in the political process that

we

will CNS

also counsel Catholic public officials that their

acting consistently to support abortion on

demand

risks

making them cooperators

in

manner. We will persist in this duty to counsel, in the hope that the scandal of their cooperating in evil can be resolved by the proper formation of their consciences." evil in a public

I ask that you pray, as I do, for all those involved in the political process, and that you

pray also for a greater respect in our country for the dignity of the life of the unborn child.

Wishing God's blessings upon each of you, I promise you a remembrance in my prayers.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Peter

Jugis

Bishop of Charlotte

'WORTHY TO RECEIVE THE LAMB"

PHOTO FROM Reuters

casts his vote

in

the

2000

elections. To

summarize the Catholic Church's

released the document, "Faithful Citizenship: A Catholic

USCCB

gen-

See FAITHFUL, page 9

Call to Political Responsibility."

FINDING CHRIST

Vatican says battle

Salisbury youths

of sexes not part of

work with

God's design BY

Jamaica's poor

CINDY

WOODEN

CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

— Members

VATICAN CITY

— The

of Sacred Heart Church's youth

battle of the sexes and, particu-

group and their chaperones

larly,

the

worked

women

are the result of origi-

to help

change people's

Kingston, Jamaica, as

nal sin

part of an annual mission trip

subjugation

and not of God's

of

origi-

nal design for creation, said the Courtesy Photo

June 24-July 1.

"Some of us, not fully understanding what we were go-

Congregation for the Doctrine Sacred Heart Church's youth group made their annual mission trip to Kingston, Jamaica, June 24-July

Members See JAMAICA, page 6

Many

ONf)

»on33no3

of the Faith.

1.

Attempts to advance the

pictured are (clockwise from top) Michael

Vaeth, Gregory Hicks, Brynne Beal and Erin Dinse.

ministries

Sister Schmidt lea ves N. C.

n im

P. Fay,

eral secretary, in nearly identi-

teachings on public policy issues that have moral and ethical dimensions, the U.S. bishops

lives in

TO READ THE STATEMENT, "WORTHY TO RECEIVE THE LAMB: CATHOLICS IN POLITICAL LIFE AND THE RECEPTION OF HOLY COMMUNION," PLEASE SEE PAGE 8.

on public policy issues that have important moral and ethical dimensions," said Msgr.

William

A Miami man

SALISBURY J.

Citi-

Catholic Call to Po-

Responsibility."

litical

an unborn child is always and can never be justified."

killing of

politicians to

A

zenship:

we reminded Catholic politicians of the moral teaching of our church in regard lo abortion: intrinsically evil

committees drafting

to the

intrinsic

ops of the United States discussed the topic of

The

— The

WASHINGTON

faithfijl,

of procured abortion.

At our

NANCY FRAZIER

BY

pro-abortion Catholic public

a scandal to the Catholic

the true teaching of the Church evil

Holy

as long as they persist in their

after 40 years

Rachel's Vineyard

Up

Leadership conference

Youth ministers receive

inspires masses

ok I

PAGE

See BATTLE, page 12

to the challenge

training resource I

PAGE

I

PAGE 16

5

2

The Catholic News & Herald

August

6,

2004

Current and upcoming

In Brief

topics from around tfie world to your own bacltyard

New program provides Catholic priests cruise lines V/ASHINGTON

PROCESSING FOR PEACE

priesthood set for Oct. 31 this year, will be marked in Catholic parishes through-

on two

(CNS)

out the United States with prayer, dialogue and social events.

— A new

program under the Apostleship of the Sea's direction

is

providing approved and

certified Catholic priests

on board two

cruise lines operating in the United States

—

Celebrity and Holland America.

An announcement

of the program

said the

two companies "can now prom-

ise their

guests and crews that they will

have an approved Roman Catholic priest on every one of their cruises."

Other cruise lines are being, encouraged to join the priest program for cruise ships "so that they too can provide the best quality of Catholic pastoral care and

ministry to guests and crews," the an-

nouncement

said.

Father Robert J. Silva, president of the Chicago-based National Federation of Priests' Councils, said the purpose of the, day is to engage "a

national conversation about the priesthood."

Priesthood Sunday was first observed in October 2003 as a reaction' to the shadows cast over all priests by the sex abuse crisis.

Ten percent of U.S. parishes took part in the event last year, but as many as 25 percent are expected to be involved this year.

Lay people at each parish and school are asked to develop their own way of marking the day and honoring both the priesthood and their own

Photo by Kevin

E.

Murray

Priesthood Sunday set for Oct. 3 1 this year CHICAGO (CNS) — Priesthood Sunday, a celebration of the American

Bishop Misael Vacca Ramirez of Yopal, Colombia, and Father Jose Juya, Hispanic

Web

A

priests.

—

—

site

www.priestsunday.org offers ideas.

There are about 44,000 priests in the United States, and only 4,000 of the 19,000 U.S. parishes currently have more than one priest.

ministry coordinator for the Gaston Vicariate, lead a procession at St. Michael

Church

in

unharmed

Gastonia Sept. 13, 2003. Bishop Vacca was recently kidnapped but freed July

27 by a

leftist

group

in

Colombia.

Diocesan, planner

have an informational meetMark Church, 14740 Stumptown Rd. The class will focus on the book of Exodus and will meet Wednesdays, 9:30-1 1:30 a.m. Sept. 8 through May 2005. For details, call the church office at (704) 948-0231.

Scripture Study will

ing Sept.

Kidnapped Colombian

ASHEVILLE

bisliop

VICARIATE

HENDERSONVILLE

—

Everyone is invited attend a Conference for Catholic Laity "Walking in the Footsteps of Jesus: hiving as Eucharistic People" Aug, 21, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Immaculata School, 7 1 1 Buncombe St. Father Frank Doyle, pastor of St. Margaret Church in Maggie Valley will give the keynote to

released unliarmed by captors Bishop Vacca attempted to foster unity in Colombia and Diocese ofCharlotte VATICAN CITY who

lombian bishop,

(CNS)

— A Co-

Pope John Paul

II

Bishop Vacca and two other priests were kidnapped by ELN members July 24 while on a pastoral visit in the town of Morcote, northeast of Colombia's

appealed for his re-

lease.

members of

the

leftist

rebel group, the

National Liberation Army,

Spanish

initials

of

known by

its

ELN.

was treated well and there was never any lack of respect," said the bishop, according to a July 28 report.

Bishop Vacca walked for three hours after he was released to reach the Diocese of Trinidad. Bishop Vacca was then flown by helicopter to his residence in

capital,

Yopal and, after a medical examinawas found to be tired but in good

Bogota.

The mayor

.

of Nunchia also was kidnapped by the same group of armed abductors.

After the two priests and the city official

"I

were released the next day, the

planned to release the bishop after giving him a message for the government.

The National Liberation Army is Colombia's second-largest rebel group with at least 3,500 guerrillas. They and the larger Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia have been locked in a 40priests said the rebels

tion,

year armed struggle against the govern-

health.

ment and right-wing death squads.

In June the government offered

The worked

bishop thanked

all

those

who

for his release, including Colombia's church leaders and Pope John Paul, who had urgently appealed for his immediate liberation.

In September 2003, Bishop Vacca visited St. Michael Church in Gastonia to help promote unity among Colombians and other Hispanic parishioners and to encourage prayers for Colombia, which has struggled with civil war for

The

stop operations against the

Vatican had called the bishop's

capture "an unjustifiable criminal

act."

The

it

was "extremely

distress-

ing and objectionable" for a bishop to be

CHARLOTTE

VICARIATE

CHARLOTTE — St. Matthew Church, 80 Ballantyne

Commons

1

Pkwy., will host a

Christian Coffeehouse Aug. 7 at 7;30 p.m.

Single and married adults are invited for an evening of contemporary Christian music, food and fellowship. For more information, call Kathy Bartlett at (704) 400-2213.

CHARLOTTE — Just Second Fridays (JSF) will

take place Aug.

Atrium

Room

of the

1-2 p.m.,

13,

in

the

Annex Building of St. Tryon St. Rev. Dr. Ben

Peter Church, 507 S. Bushyhead, director of community and recreation services for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, will speak on "Myths, Misconceptions and Stereotypes of Native Atnericans. "JSF is a monthly lunchtime speaker series sponsored by the Office of Justice and" Peace, Catholic Social Services, in partnership with St. Peter Church. Parking is available in the underground garage next to the church.

Bring your lunch; cold drinks are provided.

Call (704) 370-3225 for further information.

HUNTERSVILLE

—

Women's Catholic

CHARLOTTE —

All couples married 25 or 50 years this year will be honored at an Anniversary Mass Oct. 24 at 2:30 p.m. at St. Gabriel Church, 3016 Providence Rd. Please call your church office if you wish to be included.

CHARLOTTE

release of civilian hostages.

Bishop Vacca had been involved

in

rebels, paramilitary

ing for control of the petroleum-rich re-

gions of Casanare and Boyaca.

Editor Kevin E. Murray contributed this story.

—

A

support group

for

of a family member with memory loss meet the last Monday of each month, 10-1 1:30 a.m. at St. Gabriel Church, 3016 Providence Rd. For more information, contact Suzanne Bach at, (704) 376-4135. caregivers

•

GREENSBORO

VICARIATE

GREENSBORO

— Notre Dame

|

Catholic

Hi^

cart

Sun

is planning an alumni reunion for Aug.'2004. For more information, call Nicholas

School 14,

Schnyder

at

333-3456

(336)

oi^

e-maU

nicholas.schnyder@bellsouth.net.

HICKORY

VICARIATE

LENOIR

— Summer

Faith Formation CatechesB

be offered each Sunday, 10:20-10:50 in the school building of St. Francis of Assisi Church,

will

I

Catholic Church

between left- and right-wing groups and the government. It has helped negotiate previous peace deals and guarantee the

among

The Newcomers

to a 10- week course, "Moving On," based on Susan Miller's book "After the Boxes are Unpacked," We will talk about the spiritual, emotional and practical needs associated with mo\ ing. Classes begin Sept. 1 5 in Room 200 of St, Mark Church, 14740 Stumptown Rd,, 10:15 11:30 a,m. Call Gigi at (704) 895-3310 or Merry at (704) 947-9547 for more information.

AUGUST

'IHE-

VOLUME

has long acted as a channel for dialogue

peace efforts

—

HUNTERSVILLE.

Women's Ministry of St. Mark Church invites women who are new or still feel new to the area

and groups

NEW&^/HERALD PUBLISHER: Most Reverend Peter J. Jugis EDITOR: Kevin E. Murray STAFF WRITER: Karen A. Evans GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Tim Faragher ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: Gindi Feerlck

SECRETARY:

Sherill

to

13

•

The Catholic News & Herald, the

Roman

St.,

Charlotte,

NUMBER

USPC

007-393,

is

39 published by

NO

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 of the for

all

Roman

Catholic Diocese of Charlotte and $23 per year

News & Herald reserves deemed do not recommend or

other subscribers. The Catholic

the right to reject or cancel advertising for any reason

We

E-mail: catholicnews@charlottediocese.org

Charlotte,

Charlotte,

NO 28203

Oil

for enrollees in parishes

MAIL: RO. Box 37267, Charlotte, NO 28237 PHONE: (704) 370-3333 FAX: (704) 370-3382

St.,

Aug,

Cathoiic Diocese of Charlotte, 1123 South Churcti

appropriate.

Season

2004

6,

guarantee any product, service or benefit claimed by our advertisers. Second-class postage paid at Charlotte NC and other cities.

POSTIVIASTER: Send address corrections to The Catholic News & Herald, RO. Box 37267,

1123 South Church

In a July 27 written statement, the

Vatican said

ter contact Elizabeth Girton at (828) 252-8816 or taithfoniiation@bellsouth.net.

at 9:30 a.m. at St.

ELN

restart stalled negotiations if the called a cease-fire.

to

groups and the government that are vy-

decades.

on using

ner."

same day

Bishop Misael Vacca Ramirez of Yopal was set free July 27 after he was taken prisoner three days earlier by

will be offered

the lectionary; prayer and skills and theory for For more information or to regis-

"impeded from freely exercising his pastoral ministry in such a despicable man-

visited the

his captors the

Workshops

catechists.

Diocese of Charlotte last year, was kidnapped by armed rebels in Colombia but freed un-

harmed by

address.

1

NC

28237.

h

.

August

6,

The Catholic News & Herald 3

2004

FROM THE VATICAN

Bishop says pope to

Pope

praise

on Muslims, Christians to unite after Iraqi church attacks calls

VATICAN CITY

(CNS)

ploring a string of deadly car

— Debomb

at-

on five Catholic churches in Iraq, Pope John Paul II called on Muslims and Christians to unite against "all forms of violence" and to work together to bring peace and stability to the countacks

try.

The pope

Aug. 2 he was saddened and "deeply struck" upon hearing the news of the Aug. 1 attacks that left at least 1 1 people dead and 50 others wounded.

A wave of explosions ripped through churches in Baghdad and the northern city of Mosul early Aug. 1 just when parishioners were attending or said

leaving their places of worship. Iraq ac-

cused a terrorist group linked to alQaida with the attacks.

"At this time of trial, I am spiritually close to the church and the Iraqi people,"

read the pope's message, which was sent

Assembly of the CathoBishops of Iraq, Chaldean Patriarch

to the head of the lic

Emmanuel-Karim

faithfijl,"

as-

beloved country, as a soon as possible."

on Muslims and Christians, "all believers in the one compassionate and merciful God, to unite and deplore every form of violence and to cooperate for the return of harmony on called

tormented soU." Vatican and Iraqi church leaders condemned the latest attacks. A top Iraqi church official in Rome said those Iraq's

responsible for the blasts were intent on

new

Iraq and

its

new

fi"eedoms."

m 328-B Woodsway Ln.

NW.

There

will be

an

o(>-

For more Informa-

office at (828)

754-528 1

HICKORY — A

Grief Support Group meets the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the parlor of St. Aloysius Church, 92 1 Second St. NE. For more information, call the church office at (828) 327-2341.

SALISBURY

VICARIATE

CONCORD

—

how

Di-scover

beautiful

God's

plan for marriage really is! Natural Family Planning clas.ses are being offered at St. James Church, 251 Union St., Tuesdays at fi:3() p.m.

Learn

a natural

method that

is

just as etlective as

and is in accord with Catholic teaching.

Contact Susan Chaney at (704) 720-0772 for more information or email questions to sujo94@aol.com. the

Pill

MOORESVILLE — Seniors ages 55 and up are invited to St. Therese Church, 217 Brawley School Rd., the second Saturday of each month following the 5:30 Ma.ss for Senior Games Night,

games and a potluck dinner. Call Barbara Daigler at (704) 662-9752 for details.

featuring

SMOKY

MOUNTAIN

VICARIATE

MAGGIE VALLEY — Rac/iel's Fineyard aftercare/fbllow-up meetings are held on the third Sunday of each month. The.se meetings are for anyone who has attended a Rachel's Vineyard retreat for post-abortion healing, and are designed to help us continue on our healing jour-

ney and to grow spiritually. The next meeting is scheduled for Aug. 15, 2-4 p.m. Please call

the

Conception."

Mary

In the Lourdes apparitions,

and penance, and she told Bernadette to drink the water

for his great gifts, including the gift of

of the small spring in the grotto. Five days later, a friend of Bernadette's bathed her injured arm in the spring

the Blessed Virgin Mary.

it is

is

not just a place to seek where people dem-

a place

onstrate their faith in

God and

their

devotion to Mary," said Bishop Renato Boccardo, the papal trip organizer.

The

84-year-old Pope John Paul has

billed his trip to the shrine in the

P3T-enees as part of his

French

commemoration

of the 150th anniversary of the solemn proclamation of the dogma of the Immaculate Conception.

"The Holy Father is not going to Lourdes because he is sick," Bishop Boccardo said. "He is going because he is the pope, and he will carry the whole churcb with him to offer adoration to Mary and to God." 1858, 14-yeai'-old Bernadette Soubirous claimed she had seen Mary 18 In

Bernadette asked her name,

invited to share their thoughts.

church

make an Aug. 14^15

When

times in a grotto near Lourdes.

portunity for discussion of tlie day's gospel. All are tion, call the

will

called for prayer

"Lx)urdes

reconciliation being established in this

"demolishing the

II

pilgrimage to Lourdes, France, not to seek physical healing but to praise God

healing,

suring them of his prayers and "constant commitment to a climate of peace and

He

plied, "I

John Paul

his "heartfelt soli-

darity with priests and the

Lourdes to

God, not seek healing VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope am Immaculate

Delly.

The pope renewed

visit

Mary

re-

and was healed.

The pope will drink water fi-om the Lourdes spring upon his arrival at the grotto Aug. 14.

"The water is a sign of reconciliation and of baptism," the bishop said.

Bishop Boccardo said that Pope John Paul will not bathe in the waters of the spring, which is a ritual of faith and hope carried out by more than 300,000 ailing people each year.

"I can exclude that the pope going to ask for healing" while

Lourdes, the bishop will praise

God

said.

"Rather, he

for his great works,

one of which was Mary."

According to the shrine's official Lourdes Magazine, 66 healings have been recognized as miraculous since the time of the apparitions.

Shelley at (828) 684-4330 or (828) 230-4940 for details-

MAGGIE VALLEY — If you are struggling with the emotional or spiritual pain of abortion, there is help. Rachel's Vineyard fVeekend Retreats for healing after abortion are a beautiful opportunity to help you experience the mercy and compassion of God. The weekend will help ycJUr soul find a voice and transform the pain of the past into love and hope. The next retreat is scheduled for Sept. 17-19.

Confidentiality is strictly maintained. Please call Shelley at (828) 68'f-4330 or (828) 230-

4940

Ride of a lifetime

to register.

WINSTON-SALEM

VICARIATE

WINSTON-SALEM — Do you want to follow the Church's teaching on contraception?

Learn Natural Family Planntns; with The Couple to Couple league. Its ])lnl()sophy is in full accord with Catholic teaciiing and the method is as effective as the Pill with none of the side effects of unnatural methods. A fourpart series of classes will start Aug. 15, 1:303:30 p.m. in the Bishop Begley Parish Center of Saint Leo the Great Church, 335 Springdale Ave. For more information and registration, call Todd and Stephanie Brown at (336)

765-2909.

CNS

Franciscan Sister Rita Vukovic prepares to take a ride Is

your parish or school sponsoring a free

PHOTO BY

Jbi

F

Roach/DeFab

is

Photograph

an Indy car at the

in

Karen A. Evans

was made possible when supporters of Cardinal RItter High School had the winning $2,000 bid for the ride, donated by Sinden Racing, during a school benefit. The fund-raiser brought in money for

at kaevans@charlottediocese.org or fax to

scholarships and financial aid for the Indianapolis interparochial high school. Sister

event? Please submit notices

for the

Diocesan Planner

prior to

the event date

at least

in writing to

15 days

(704)370-3382.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The venture

Rita

has taught English and religion classes

at Cardinal Ritter for

35 years.

$5 OFF any purchase of $30 or more Episcopal calendar

The Bishop Peter J,

Jugis willparticipate in

thefollowing events:

Cath#lic Company

Lake Norman Book Store Aug. 7

— 5:30 p.m. Mass

Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalenn St. Patrick

—

Aug. 10

— Priests' Continuing Education Day

Holy Fannily Church, Clemnnons

Aug. St.

11

—

Aug. 14 Lighting the Fires of Faith Conference Bishop McGuinness High School, Kernersville

— Priests' Continuing Education Day

Gabriel Church, Chariotte

LakeNorman CathoiicCompanv.com

Your COMPLETE Catholic store for Clothing Videos to rent

•

Unique gifts & cards

•

Books, rosaries,

• •

Priests for

•

statues

•

medals Artwork

•

Cathedral, Chariotte

Aug. 9 Priests' Continuing Education Day St. Barnabas Church, Arden

is

at

Aug. 15

— 11 a.m. Mass

St. Patrick

Cathedral, Chariotte

Life materials

Aug. 21

—6 p.m. Mass

new church Redeemer Church,

CALL 70a-655-g090

Dedication of Divine

Boonville

Mon. thru 10

am

-

6

Sat.

pm

19905 West Catawba Ave., suite 106, Cornelius west off 1-77 exit 28 (Johnsburv square - next to Goodwill)

'

Mews &

4 The Catholic

Herald

August

6,

2004

AROUND THE DIOCESE MANY MINISTRIES

from Sacred Heart College in Belmont in 1973 and a master's degree in religious studies from LaSalle University in

Sister Schmidt ieaves Nortii Carolina after

Philadelphia in 1980.

She studied

four decades of service

for a year in

Rome and

received an advanced certificate in Scrip-

ture and theology and had diocesan

~

training for spiritual direction.

KEVIN

BY

She worked as a retreat director

MURRAY

E.

EDITOR

BELMONT

— After

nearly 40

Mercy moving on.

years in North Carolina,

Sister

Antonette Schmidt is Sister Schmidt, director of diocesan young adult ministry, is beginning a new ministry as vice president for mission and values at Mercy Suburban Hospital in Norristown, Pa.

'The Catholic Church has a mission in health care

poor and those

—

receiving certification in clinical pastoral services fi-om Carolinas Medical Center.

In 2000, she

the American

became a member of

Red

Cross' Spiritual Re-

sponse Team for national incidents volving mass casualties.

specific

caring for the

In addition to her

who

can afford to pay," said Sister Schmidt. "It's a constant balancing act, and attention between caring for the poor and making sure the mis-

work

in

in-

young

adult ministry, she served as co-direc-

McArthur Spirituality Center youth and young adults and House

tor of for

of Hospitality for young adults, both in Belmont.

sion endures."

who

at

Living Waters Catholic Reflection Center in Maggie Valley during the .summers fi-om 1986 to 1991, and as a hospital chaplain at St. Joseph Hospital in Asheville from 1990 until 1998 after

the ethics and bio-ethics committee at

She said that she can see a continuous thread throughout her work

the hospital, looks forward to ensuring a

and ministry.

Sister Schmidt,

will

be chairing

fi-om conception to death.

respect for

life

Her new

duties in Pennsylvania are

similar to those she

had

the

at St. Joseph

ministry.

Hospital in AsheviUe in the 1990s.

"You have must be applied cult

sion," Photo bv'Kevin

sometimes very diffimedical decisions," she said. She will

and

patients.

You

treat

party at the Pastoral Center July 27.

—

everyone

Schmidt heard her calling to the life of a woman religious in the form of a whisper in her head at the age of 10 or 11. She was at Benediction and looking at the monstrance when she heard the words,

with dignity."

Sister

Schmidt said she would miss community among Catho-

the sense of lics in

the Diocese of Charlotte.

'The interconnectedness has been a wonderful gift," she said. 'Tou get to know people who are as committed to the Kingdom of God as you are."

Moving up North will be "very exciting. It will be different working in a diocese that's old and established," said Sister Schmidt. "But

where

A

I

came

Murray

Mercy Sister Antonette Schmidt chats with diocesan personnel during her farewell

also be responsible for ensuring the "re-

staff

E.

it is

my home

—

"I

As

it's

still

re-

sides in Pennsylvania.

"It (the transition) is

a child, she

was aware of the

going somewhere where there is no family present," she said. "But I will miss my sisters in community. I'll miss the proximity to the sisters I have literally become an adult with."

Growing up in Berwyn, Pa., Sister tling as

I

remember being homesick only had the feeling that I was home; it

was where

I

was meant

Sister Schmidt,

derstand their significance for her

vows

life.

sister in a local

"She told

community.

who

to be," said

professed her final

chUdhood parish.

Living and working in the Diocese in 1971 at her

of Charlotte has been a great experience, she

said.

"Service in a rnission diocese

with

possibilities for

and ministry," she in

is filled

spreading the

said. "I've

Word

been blessed

being able to serve in many ministries."

She continued with her first love of

my

mis-

young adults of the James Hawker, vicar for education and pastor of St. Luke Church in Mint Hill.

"As she leaves for new areas of mindiocese," said Father

she was 21.

"I

really believe that's

said.

ship in relation to the

Mercy of the Aniericas ReCommunity in North Carolina

meaning of the words, but did not un-

but could not ignore her calling. After serious soul-searching, she spoke with a

not as unset-

when once.

She heard the call again in high school.

"I was sitting there, and the thought came, uninvited and intrusive," she said.

"I said, 'go knock on someone else's door.'

I was clear about wanting to be married and wanting to have children."

She became a Catholic schoolteacher

from."

"great deal" of her family

want you."

In 1965, Sister Schmidt entered the Sisters of

gional

I

she

The diocesan Education Vicariate gave a farewell party for her at the Pastoral Center July 27.

'The Diocese of Charlotte has been blessed greatly by her spiritual leader-

ethical directives that to

spect for the dignity of each.person

"I have always tried to communicate wonder of God's love through my

•

istry,

we

are so deeply grateful for her

unique contribution here in the diocese by her generous, gracious, competent and consistent service to the young

he said. hope I leave behind the impression that one can be a woman who thirsts for God and enjoys life," said Sister Schmidt. "No matter what I did, I hope that would be what I leave behind.'^ adults," "I

,

teaching for more than 22 years. She earned a bachelor's degree in education

\

Contact Editor Kevin E.

calling

Murray

6)1

370-3334 or e-mait

(704)

kemurray@charlottediocese.org.

j

me to look for a community

that had teaching as a ministry, and

happened to be working with the

I

Sisters

of Mercy at the time," said Sister Schmidt.

The Center

is centrcdly

located in the Piedmont

ofNorth

Carolina Volkswagen 7800 E. Independence (704) 537-2336

•

Blvd., Charlotte

(800) 489-2338

Carolina. Located

only an hour's drive from three major cities assures

meeting planners and attendees a is

•

meeting that

more accessible than

ever Being accessible to

Biggest Selection

(f^iS

\^ Drivers wanted.

Lowest Prices

the country and a peaceful setting is

only

1551

"Nothing Could Be Finer"

Members ofSt. Gabriel

a meeting place

we can offer!

Trinity

Hickory,

Lane

NC 28602

(828) 327-7441

#1 Volkswagen Dealer in Charlotte and all the Carolinas for customer sales and service satisfaction!

C'mon in and see why!

Toll-free (888) 536-7441 info

@ catholicconference.org

www.catholicconference.org

.

August

6,

.

The Catholic News & Herald 5

2004

AROUND THE DIOCESE

new court

Catholic Daughters add ThirtY'-nme BY

KEVIN

women from three parishes join na tional organiza tion E.

—

MURRAY

The North

Carolina

Catholic Daughters of the Americas recently added to

tution of a

its

roster with the insti-

new court

at St.

Mary

Church.

Thirty-nine women from three churches St. Joseph Church in Bryson City, Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Cherokee and St. Mary have joined the new court Church

—

its

During the June 27 ceremony, 30 received by Joyce Rachid,

state regent, into the national organiza-

tion of Catholic Daughters.

became the

inducted July

CouRTESY Photo

two women were

ducted July 4 and seven

in-

women were

very generous re-

a

women

sponse fi-om the

Thirty St.

1 1

"There was said

Father Ray

Mary Church,

court's first chaplain.

Additionally,

Father Williams.

women from

shows there

is

need for women in a cooperative role. They've launched something that is going to take off" real

Father Williams, center,

38

assisting the parishes, offers socializa-

it

court,

the Diocese of Raleigh, seven in the

Diocese of Charlotte.

"We meet

to see

women. something we did for the

"It's

Court St. Mary, Mother of God, joins a dozen other Catholic Daughters courts (chapters) in North Carolina; there are now six courts in

in

Sylva.

the court chaplain.

you can do so much more."

Both Beauchemin and Father Williams said that the court, in addition to

benefits

The new

is

nized group,

tion for

Many

three parishes were inducted into the newly established Court

Mary, Mother of God during a June 27 ceremony at St. Mary Church

in the parishes,"

"It

churches and something selves," tion,

is

needed at

three parishes," said Sandy Beauchemin, court regent. "Many ladies were already helping with their church's needs, but now we have an umbrella under which to operate."

"We have a group of women who the

"With an orga-

she

the

said.

women

we

did for our-

"Since the court's incepare so motivated."

Beauchemin

credits Rita Goffinet,

the court's recording secretary, for Court St.

what

are organized," she said.

the U.S. bishops' Apostleship of the

Teachers of Exceptional Children Catholic Educational Association; Morality in Media; Catholic Relief Services; and Habitat for Humanity.

It also provides scholarships and support for seminarians.

The Junior Catholic Daughters of the Americas, the national program for girls ages 6-18, was founded in 1925.

Court St. Mary, Mother of God will be having a luau and auction as a fundraiser in late August, but Beauchemin was looking forward to the court's first official charitable work, a in conjunction with the National

women were

St.

Mary's existence. After attending the

funeral of a local Knight of Columbus, Goffinet,

whose mother was

a Catholic

Daughter, thought it would be ideal to have a local court to support grieving widows. needed to be done and blessing," said Father Williams. "She's done a marvelous job."

"She decided

she did

it,

with

it

my

Many Annuity Owners Will

"She was instrumental

women

in

getting the

together," said Beaucliemin.

A court needs 15 members before can be founded, but GofFmet didn't

stop there.

"She was always shooting for more," said Beauchemin.

Recruiting and retaining members were topics discussed during the North Carolina Catholic Daughters of the Americas' leadership seminar at the Catholic Conference Center in August 2003. The seminar was not part of their biennial convention state's Catliolic

—

all

falling into place."

Contact Editor Kevin E.

calling

(704)

ery other year for a conference that

is

BUYING a

part

business meeting, part spiritual retreat.

"(The) seminar was something

Home?

new

and get new members," said Ruth Carlisle, a parishioner of St. Patrick Cathedral in Charlotte and Catholic Daughters state treasurer. to try

in 1903, Catholic

Wont a REBATE from your REALTOR?

Some

did not volunteer any information.

you own an annuity or are considering taking advantage of their many benefits, my FREE report, "Using Guaranteed Annuities to Help You Survive Your Retirement," will tell you what questions to ask.

If

report

is

FREE

from your existing

and shows you how

assets

to get

more

C C

Cremation Center

c

for your

FREE report!

Dr. Richard Pucciarelli Member of Asset Protectors and Advisors Group

www.deerparkrealty.net Vour

Fiil :^rvlce

Real Ertote Firm

for

th^Carolinas

Serving the Carolinas for more than 23 years!

Special Cards, Religious Articles,

Dignity Affordability

benefits

Simplicity

Unique Gifts

— CARPLINA CATHOLIC==il— ^ BOOKSHOPPE ™ l

i

II

5505 Monroe Rd.

Charlotte,

NC 28212

704-568-0023

II

704-342-2878

www.carolinafuneral.com

FAX (704)334.3313 44 1 0-F Monroe Road, Charlotte, 28205

Steven Ku2;ma

WE WELCOME MAIL ORDERS

Owner/Director Certified Senior Advisor

321-2859

Deer Park Realty

Carolina Funeral &

and help preserve your annuity value.

Call 800-800-4960, ext. 7405 (24 hours)

by

kemurray@charlottediocese.org.

(704)

annuity owners lose money because they didn't know what questions to ask when they bought, and their salesperson

Murray

370-3334 or e-mail

since 1956, the

Daughters of the Americas has grown

VOU?

Humanity project that was held June 3 1 "We're providing lunch for the workers and homeowners," she said.

"We got the call and we responded. It's local Habitat for

Daughters have met ev-

Helping others From its inception

Lose Money.

The

Americas.

in the

Seas;

inception June 27.

Williams, pastor of

women

Headquartered in New York with 100,000 members in the United States, Guam, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, Do-

tries;

—

since

tion of Catholic

minican Republic and Mexico, Catholic Daughters of the Americas' purpose is to help the church in its religious, charitable and educational works.

The organization, open to Catholic lay and religious women 1 8 years of age or older, supports Covenant House, which provides shelter and services to homeless and runaway youths; Support Our Aging Religious, a national agency that helps religious orders meet retirement needs; Holy Cross Family Minis-

EDITOR

SYLVA

and developed into the largest organiza-

Privately, Locally

Owned

Member Si. Matthew Church and Knights of C.ohimbus

AND SPECIAL ORDERS! Tues-Fri 9:30

AM 5:30 pm -

Sat 9:30 am 3:00 pm Closed Mondays thru Labor Day -

WWW.CAROUNACATHOUCBOOKS.COM

6

The Catholic News & Herald

August

6,

2004

AROUND THE DIOCESE YOUTH REVOLUTION

Youth help Jamaican poor surrounded us. They were longing for attention and glowing from ear to ear, extremely happy to see us," she said.

JAMAICA, from page 1

brought a tear to us and even called some of us women 'mommy."'

ing to do, had yet to experience this wonderful opportunity to reach out to others in need," said Brynne Beal,

"...Seeing the children

my

past have continued to attend this trip

"Everyone wanted to play a game

every year, fund raising and saving their money in order to go."

The group spent the week living at a .Franciscan Sisters of Allegheny convent while working during the day with the M^issionaries of the Poor, an international monastic order of brothers started in 1981 by Father Richard Ho Lung.

The group worked in teams at four of the five centers run by the brothers; the shelters were mainly for homeless men, women and children, while one was for the homeless and AIDS patients and

with you, hold your hand and talk to you," said Brynne. "... You wanted to be there with all of the people doing whatever they needed."

Needed

St.

A

Leo the Great Church

in

Winston-Salem ride on the bus to the

Catholic Revolution" high school youth conference in Steubenville, Ohio,

June 25-27.

Teens ^rise up' at conference

plying lotion, clipping nails and dressing wounds.

"You end up doing things you never imagined you could or would do," said Brynne. "It is a lot of hard work that cannot be accomplished without prayer."

"One of the brothers told me, 'In whatever you do, remember that you are doing it for Jesus, and do it to the best of your ability,"' said Brynne. 'This stuck with me and it was in the back of my mind the whole trip."

Each night, group members would share the day's events and how they saw Christ in the people and each other.

"I found out many things about myself I went to Jamaica on a mission trip to help others, but in reality I was the one that was helped," said Brynne.

"I was humbled by my experience,"

had a chance to see them all, and spend time where we felt most called," said Brynne.

The days began with a Mass celebrated by Father John Putnam, pastor of Sacred Heart Church.

"For me, the highlight of the day was Mass and receiving the grace necessary to fulfill what was asked of us throughout the day," said Chris Beal, parish youth minister.

Brynne said her first day at Bethlehem House was overwhelming.

"As we walked in the door children

You

tasks at the centers include4

bathing, clothing, diapering, feeding, ap-

"We

"Rise Up:

reported similar experiences

at all the shelters.

children.

Teens from

They embraced

Teams

youth group member. "However, many of the boys that went in years

Courtesy Photo

eye.

she

said.

1

re Invited! to

WINSTON-SALEM

— The

cently participated in "Rise Up:

A Catho-

A

Revolution," the high school youth conference held June 25-27 on the cain-

of Franciscan

University

from

Tenth Annual Banquet

of

growing number of participants Leo the Great Church have

ff

St.

been attending the Steubenville confer-

Steubenville, Ohio.

ences for six consecutive years.

and adults from St. Leo the Great Church were among 2,300 participants from the United States and

say they

Fifty teens

The teens

come back home on fire for their

Charlotte Convention Center

love of God and ready to live their faith

Thursday, October 14, 2004

every day.

(H)Husqvama

Featured Speaker

viking

Jennifer O'Neill

AUTHORIZED SALES & SERVICE

Internationally acclaimed actress,

film

Jennifer O'Neill

of '42," and

A post-abortive woman herself, she television

*

Adult and youth classes

*

Notions, software, threads and more!

*

Fabrics galore!

*

Easy financing!

Repairs

-

all

television star

role in the cla-ssic film,

Qwer Girl C<asmetics for an is

"Summer

unprecedented thirry years.

the celebrity spokesperson for die National Silent No

Ms. O'Neill makes regular

pro-life,

pro-family appearances

on

More

national

shows such as "ITie O'Reilly Factor" and "The View."

Registration/Reception:

5:30pm

Dinner: 7:00pm

makes and models

Reservations are free, but required.

Sharing the Joys of Sewing

make your reservation or to host a table ofeight, contact Megan Kimmel (704) 525-4673 ext. 10, iroomattheinn@carolina.rr.com by September 30th.

To

Greensboro

Winston-Salem

and

became a household name with her sarring

as the spokesperson for

Awareness Campaign.

*

Inn's

of the Blessed Sacrament.

lic

pus

Room At The

Canada who experienced speakers, music and skits. Their weekend was highlighted with a procession and adoration

Life

Teen youth ministry from St. Leo the Great Church in Winston-Salem re-

336-766-8271

336-834-0230

1329 Lewisviile-Clemmons Rd.

4604 W. Market

www.sewinglyyours.com

St.

cnh

Room At The Inn

is

an alternative

a pro-life Catholic maternity home providing to abortion for single pregnant women.

f

i

,

!

"

August

6,

The Catholic News & Herald 7

2004

AROUND THE DIOCESE FIGHTING FOR LIFE

Rachel's Vineyard leaders

attend conference Post-abortion ministry help healingprocess BY

Rachel's Vineyard and a

A. EVANS STAFF WRITER

KAREN

GREENSfeORO

board of directors.

—

receive forgiveness and healing

important ministry

an

is

in the fight for

life.

Approximately 100 people from

those new to post-abortion ministry or to Rachel's Vineyard; therapists and other clinicians; those wanting training in team development; those wanting to learn how to speak' to tries:

the United States, including the Diocese of Charlotte; Ireland; and

helped post-

women

be better equipped to speak publicly about their abortion if they want to."

Five simultaneous tracks offered specialized training for various minisabortive

Helping have had abortions

women who

member of its

"It also

Canada

spent five days in June receiving in-depth training, learning how to minister to women and men who have been affected by abortion and how to

groups, write a press release or conduct a press conference; ^and childbirth educa-

continue the fight for the unborn.

The Rachel's Vineyard-Rachel Network Leaders in Ministry Conference

tors,

doulas and nurses.

Key

topics discussed at the confer-

was co-sponsored by the diocesan Respect Life Office and Rachel Network and took place at Greensboro College

ence included abortion and post-traumatic stress disorder; men and abortion; the effects of trauma; the "disenfranchised grief of abortion;

International

June 20-25. The event provided train-

forgiveness; after-care resources; "telling

in

ing sessions for pastors, lay ministers,

your story"; and managing the media.

"There are so many, both men and women, suflfering from the emotional, spiritual and physical damage caused by abortion," said Maggi Nadol, diocesan Respect Life director. "Rachel's Vineyard is a beginning in the journey to forgiveness and healing."

Christian counselors, pregnancy care center volunteers and peer counselors

involved in respect

life

ministries.

"The conference was primarily designed to help leaders of post-abortion ministries be better leaders," said Dr.

Martha Shuping,

volunteer with

a

DONT PROCRASTINATE! CALL NOW!

125,000 people will read these words this week!

Shouldn't they see

LOW ad rates individuals, tool

Call (704)

-

YOUR COMPANY'S name here?

easy for small businesses <

370-3332 now!

Courtesy Photo

Participants use sign language to sing during a worship and praise session at the

Rachel's Vineyard

Leadership Conference

Greensboro College

at

June.

"People often do not realize that

men

are affected by abortion'as well as

women," Shuping said. For that reason, a workshop was presented by two

men who

shared their stories about their involvement in abortion.

Rachel Network is a ministry set up to provide a range of post-abortion services. Rachel's Vineyard retreats are centered around Scriptural meditations, called "Living Scriptures,"

during which people listen to a passage of Scripture, imagine themselves in that story and then are directed to the healing

it

represents.

"As people of faith, we are fortunate to be able to turn to a loving God, who calls us to healing," said Nadol.

Contact Staff Writer Karen A. Evans by calling (704) 370-3354 or e-mail kaevans@charlottediocese.org.

Caring for Charlotte Area Catholic

LEARN ROSARY MAKING

Families

in

Their Hour of

Need Since 1926

and

FUNERAL SERVICE, INC.

im.

Catholic \m\

j^ERALD

Call for catalog .

& or

introductory offer visit

Charlone 704-334-6421

www.rosarfpaits. com

Pinevllle 704-544-1412

Your Child's Education... An important Decision!

Blessed Sacrament Academy

Mint

Hill

704-545-4864

800-342-2400

Grades K-5

Derita 704-596-3291

on standardized

Excellent scores

Foreign languages, music

A classical

LEWIS & COMPANY

offers:

tests

P.O.Box 268-K,

Troy,

NY

12181

& art

curriculum w/emphasis on traditional Catholic teachings

nowto guarantee your child's enrollment. Space is limited!

704-841-2292 Visit us on the web at/ www.blessedsaaamentai^demy.oig

Call

Located behind Windsor Square

in

Matthews, NC

A private academy independent

of Charlotte

SAFETY MEDICAL ALERT SYSTEMS diocesan schools

OHE LAST KISS OFYOUR LIFETIME

Are You or a Loved One Living Alone?

ResponseUnk is your answer for enhanced independence and

T4Sr/C/SS"byRicliStaley Curl up on the couch and get ready to laugh, cry

as you

and think about your own mortality on the journey to discover faith, love and how to it were your last!

appreciate each day as

if

24-hour emergency &

*

ReSpOn§01/ilWr

nonemergency

* lightweight,

f.r^tMKing Your Safely —Ensuring Your Im/rpendenct

state-of-the-art system

*

y^2mamM

travel with "Patrick"

"An Inspiration! 'Last Kiss' Is a powerful novel that explores the human heart to light those In our lives who mean so much. Staley's tender look at life has the power to restore our faith In both God and man.

safety!

medication/health reminders waterproof wrist

or neck pendant

and brings

—Msgr

John

J.

McSweeney,

Pastor, St.

Local offices open

To onler, null check or money order (no credil cards) to: Pilgrim PublttUng, POBox 49544, C.barlolte,SC 28211

24 hours a day to assist your Immediate needs.

Local owners arc parishioners of

Matthew Catholic Church, Charlotte

$13.95 plus S2.50 shipping

(704) 875-8473

Si.

Mark Catholic Church,

Hunlersville,

NC

1-877-333-8866 TOLL FREE

8

The Catholic News & Herald

August

6,

2004

FAITHFUL CITIZENSHIP

Bishops warn 'Worthy to Receive the Lamb: Catholics ia Political Life and the Reception of Holy Communiori

politicians wlio

consistentiy bacli bishops, we have the obligation to teach and guide the Catholic Faithful whom we shepherd in the Body of Christ. A fundamental teaching of our Church is respect for the sacred gift of life. This teaching flows from the Natural Law and from Divine Revelation.

As

legal abortion

.

BY

JERRY FILTEAU

—

WASHINGTON who

Politicians

act "consistently to support abortion

on demand"

risk "cooperating in evil

common

sinning against the

and

good," the

June

U.S. Catholic bishops said in a

ment

state-

correcSng morally defective laws," they said in a 1,000-word statement titled "Catholics in Political Life."

'The

killing of

always intrinsically

an unborn chUd is To make such

evil.

human beings through abortion is intrinsically unjust, opposed to the natural law, to God's revealed commandments, and to the consequent right of every individual to possess life, from the moment of conception to the moment of natural death. law, therefore, which legitimizes the direct killing of innocent

since

it is

directly

wrong," they

is

itself

Noting that "the question has been whether it is necessary to deny

raised"

Communion to Catholics in public who support abortion on demand, "all

must examine

their

Communion, including with regard to "fidelity to the moral teaching of the church in personal and public life."

They added that "given the wide range of circumstances involved in arriving at a prudential judgment" in that matter, the bishops "recognize that such decisions rest with the individual bishop in accord with established canonical and receive

pastoral principles."

make

dif-

judgments on the most prudent

course of pastoral action" in confronting individual cases, they said, but the bish-

ops share an "unequivocal commitment to protect human life and dignity."

They urged Catholics oppose legal abortion

in

915).

where Catholics meet

is

as a family in Christ, united

by a

common

faith.

Every Catholic

is

responsible

profound union with Christ. Participation in Holy Communion requires certain dispositions on the part of the communicant, namely, perseverance in the life of grace, and communion in the faith of the Church, in the sacraments, and in the hierarchical order of the Church (Pope John Paul II, Eeclesia de Eucharistia, 35-38). is a manifest lack of a proper disposition for Holy Communion in those whose and steadfastly contrary" to the Church's moral teaching (Eeclesia de Eucharistia, 37b). A manifest lack of proper disposition for Holy Communion is found to be present in those who consistently support pro-abortion legislation. Because support for pro-abortion legislation is gravely sinful, such persons should not be

The Church

also recognizes that there

outward conduct

life

they be

— which

"Seriously, clearly,

is

admitted to Holy Communion.

We also

take this opportunity to address all Catholics whose beliefs and conduct do not correspond to the Gospel and to we the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of our Lord Jesus Christ Church teaching. To receive the great gift of God must approach Holy Communion free from mortal sin. Those who are conscious of being in a state of grave sin should avail themselves of the Sacrament of Reconciliation before coming to Holy Communion. To partake of the Eucharist is to partake of Christ Himself, and to enter into sacramental communion with our Lord we must all be properly disposed.

—

—

have on the conduct of our daily lives and on the formation of our life espousing positions contrary to the teaching of the Church on the sanctity and inviolability of human life, especially those running for or elected to public office, are not to be admitted to Holy Communion in any Catholic church within our jurisdictions: the Archdiocese of Atlanta, the Dioceses of Charleston and Charlotte. Only after reconciliation with the Church has occurred, with the knowledge and consent of the local bishop, and public disavowal of former support for procured abortion, will the individual be permitted to approach Because of the influence that Catholics

we

in public life

declare that Catholics serving in public

the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist.

We undertake this action to safeguard the sacred dignity of the Most Holy Sacrament of the Altar, to reassure the faithful, and to save

sinners.

in

is itself sinful.

statement said respect for the

Eucharist "demands that

worthily and that

our

pubhc

"lest

guilty of cooperating in evil"

The

Holy Communion

nation's future,

"Bishops can legitimately

Catholic teaching

Canon

abortion stance (cf

life

the

consciences" about their worthiness to

ferent

life

for the protection of all innocent

for being properly prepared for this

said.

bishops said that

have the responsibility to exemplify in their public service this teaching of the Church, and to life. There can be no contradiction between the values bestowed by Baptism and the Catholic Faith, and the public expression of those values. Catholic public officials who consistently support abortion on demand are cooperating with evil in a public manner. By supporting pro-abortion legislation they participate in manifest grave sin, a condition which excludes them from admission to Holy Communion as long as they persist in the proCatholics in political

work

...

intrinsically evil actions legal

for

A

released in Washington.

'Those who formulate the law" are obUged in conscience "to work toward

to

is a gift bestowed upon us by God, a truth underscored by the commandment: "You shall not kill" (Deut 5: 17). The Old Testament also teaches us that human life in the womb is precious to God: "...I formed you in the womb..." (Jer 1: 5).

The right to life is a value "which no individual, no majority and no State can ever create, modify or destroy, but must only acknowledge, respect and promote" (Pope John Paul II, Evangelium vitae, 71a).

Life

CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

common

They

it

be received

be seen as the source mission in the world." it

cited the First Letter to the

Corinthians, in which St. Paul warns

Most Reverend John

that "whoever, therefore, eats the bread

Archbishop of Atlanta

F.

Donoghue

Most Reverend Peter

J.

Jugis

Bishop of Charlotte

or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of profaning the body and blood of the Lord."

WANT MORE "Catholics

the

INFO?

in Political Life"

USCCB Web

can be found on

site

at

http://

www.usccb.org/bishops/ catholicsinpoliticallife.htm.

Most Reverend Robert

J.

Baker

Bishop of Charleston

SMITH & SMITH, PA

»

ce

FUNERAL HOME &

Assuring Absolute Integrity

Asheville.

NC

(828) 252-3535

72 Long Sioals Road Arden,

NC

(828) 687-3530

EXPERIENCED NO

FEE UNTIL

WIN ON

CREMATION SERVICE 1401 I'atton Ave.

Jacquelyn A. Smith, Attorney / \ Timothy M. Smith, Attorney Members of St. Mark's Church

Ashevillc's Ckthoiic Funeral Directors

Dale Groce

•

John Prock

Toll-free (888)

874-3535

Pre-arrangements and obituaries on-line at www.grocefuneralhome.com

PI

WE

CASES

CRIMINAL

-

LAW

PERSONAL INJURY

Traffic Tickets (Meek, only)

FREE INITIAL

DWI

CONSULTATION

Expunctions Felonies & Misdemeanors

convenient free parking

10%

AGGRESSIVE- CARING Auto Accident Workers' Compensation Wrongful Death Whiplash - Back, Neck Head

off attorney fee— 10% of net fee donated to Catholic Social Services

704-331-3092 www.sinithandsmithpa.com

900 Baxter

St.,

injuries

Food Pantry

Suite 109, Charlotte

.

August

6,

The Catholic News & Herald 9

2004

FAITHFUL CITIZENSHIP and dignity

life

Taithful Citizenship' to guide platforms

not a narrow cause, but

is

way of life and

framework

for action,"

the bishops said. "As Catholics,

we need to

a

a

share our values, raise our voices and use

our votes to shape a society that protects human life, promotes family life, pursues

Statementprompts howbasic values should shape political choices you review the statement, including the final section which focuses on specific

FAITHFUL, from page 1

and take these ideas into considyou carry out your work."

The 8,500-word document, designed

cal letters to

The

further the

"We

common

calls

In the document, approved unani-

mously by the 47-member Administra-

nation."

last

downloaded from the since last

USCCB Web

site

fall.

'Through the introduction of 'Faith-

"Where

Committee, the bishops said the U.S. must be "engaged but

Catholic Church

place at the table for the

not used."

those

Ifjou.

have

these desires, the Diocesan Office of Lay Ministry

a truo-year program desigtied to help you understand more fully your baptismal call to minister to your family, to others in offers

the Church,

and

to those

in your daily

life.

Classes will be held in Arden,

Charlotte

and Greensboro

Now Your

Parents

Can

Home!

Live At

own Where is

general assembly.

looking at the array of issues, "may feel politically homeless, sensing that no po-

of the docuhient

is

would

like to see

what they Catholic

on a wide range of topics abortion and assisted suicide, samesex marriages and school vouchers, affordable housing and foreign aid, workers' rights and the Middle East.

The

devoted to

litical

some

bishops said

and

human

life

dignity."

"However,

we do not wish to inon how they should vote

Catholics,

party and too few candidates

share a consistent concern for this

is

not a time for re-

treat or discouragement," they said.

"We

need more, not less, engagement in political life. urge Catholics to become more involved by running for office; by working within political parties; by contributing money or time to campaigns; and by joining diocesan legislative networks, community organizations and other efforts to apply Catholic

by endorsing or opposing candidates," it said. "We hope that voters will examine the position of candidates on a full range of issues, as well as on their personal integrity, philosophy and performance."

The document described "a consis-

It

for

The document reviewed

taken up in the presi-

We

as the "moral frame-

all

up

social teaching

"As bishops,

life"

lack the fi^eedom to practice

believe?"

dential campaigns.

struct persons

who

their faith or stand

a discussion of issues that church leaders

arena.

Frank VUlaronga, 704-370-3274 or E-mail favillaronga@charlottediocese.org

hungry and

lack health care in our

—

world

—

should address

For more information call

are

the place at the table for those in our

work" from which Catholic voters

Training Program

who

gage and persuade public officials," they said. "But we must be sure that events and 'photo ops' are not substitutes for work on policies that reflect our values."

The Administrative Committee made up of the executive officers of the USCCB, elected committee chairmen and elected regional representatives is the highest policy- and decision-making body of the bishops apart fi-om the entire body when it meets twice a year in

tent ethic of

MlMISTRY

who

land and around the world?

leaders and candidates, seeking to en-

Much Be affirmed in your present ministry.

Upgrade your certification as a catechist and religion teacher.

Fulfill the prerequisite for the Permanent Diaconate.

Grow in your faith.

the place at the table for a

is

destroyed every year before they are born?" they asked. "How can we secure a

—

/oiue your'JaiiJi

has a place at the table of

million of our nation's children

"We welcome dialogue with political

28 years.

In his letter, Msgr. Fay said "hundreds of thousands of copies" of "Faithful Citizenship" have been distributed in Catholic parishes and organizations and

who share our commitment to justice and peace in our nation and world," he added. "We ask that

ReOecting values

tive

document has been issued

"Who

tion: life?"

choices over the values, vision and leaders

before every presidential election for the

choices of all people

choices," he added.

on

and

similar

bishops asked Catholics to look

at the political arena in light of the ques-

now

wUl guide our

The

basic values should shape political

to "participate

A

Table oflife

how

in the debates

that

believe they can inform the

prompting Catholics and

non-Catholics alike to contemplate

American Catholics and in the future

good."

are

try,

based on Catholic social teaching,

were addressed to Bill Harris, convention chairman and CEO for the Republican National Committee, and Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn., who chairs the platform drafting committee for the Democratic National Committee.

Msgr. Fay said the church teachings summarized in "Faithful Citizenship" are "rooted in a commitment to defend the life and dignity of every human being and to

we

issues,

to offer a blueprint for electoral decisions

party leaders.

Citizenship' in classrooms, workshops and other events across the coun-

ful

eration as

letters

social justice and practices solidarity.

These efforts can strengthen our nation and renew our church."

—

principles in the public square."

issues in the pohtical

quoted extensively from the Some Questions Re-

WANT MORE INFO?

"Doctrinal Note on

garding the Participation of Catholics in Political Life," issued in January 2003 by the Vatican's Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.

"For Catholics, the defense of human

To read the entire statement, and for more information on "Faithful Citizenship," visit the site at

USCCB Web

http://www.usccb.org/

faithfulcitizenship/index.htm.

!

We Build Friendships With Families

Catholic Gift & Bool< Store Over 700 Book

Titles, plus Bibles, Rosaries, Statues,

Medals, Tapes, CD, Plaques, Hours:

9am -5pm

(336) 273-2554 fax (336) 273-2441

We know it isn't easy You'll interview

and

to invite

select

someone

any caregiver

At Visiting Angels, character matters

Up

to

24 hour

care.

into your

who we

home

to provide homecare.

(hemsbow,

NC 27401

-offering both hand scribed and computerized calligraphy for your special occasionl

light

housework, companionship.

704 549 4010

VUitUl^ Angels.^^ Jill.

Friday

refer to you.

(Xir caregivers are thoroughly screened.

E-maii us at

233 N. (.keme St.

•

ADD ELEGANCE TO YOUR CORRE/PONDENCE, CARD/, CERTIFICATE/ AND /O MUCH MORE!

in caregivers!

Hygiene assistance, meals,

& much, much more!

Monday

Stewart@ VisitingAngels, com

Invitations

Menus

Certificates

Envelopes

Place cards

Seating charts

CALL TODAY

AND

WE'LL HELP

dpcinc@alltel.net

And

more!!!

VOU WITH YOUR

www.danaspci.com

EVENT!

VTC,

L'MC

704-846-2120

10 The Catholic News & Herald

August

Watch

Culture

of Scripture, readings, films and mdre

SUNDAY SCRIPTURE READINGS: AUG.

way to prayer

JEFF JOHNSON CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

Contemporary poetry is a form of prayer in these two recent books from St. Anthony Messenger Press.

Poetry ofters "a way to hope in violent times," writes Peggy Rosenthal in

Cycle

on poetry could be very

1)

praying.

While

poetry

highly subjective,

is

I

I

felt

Her choice of poems

also disap-

is

pointing. Rather than selecting poetry

Rosenthal, a Catholic convert

who

for quality, she opted to let content

2)

1

Luke 1:39-56

Mary's assumption gives hope in Christ's victory over death BY

DAN LUBY

•

CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

When

picking a girl for the coveted

"lectio

provides a generous sampling of accom-

in my childhood parish's annual re-enactment of the Christmas

an ancient method for reading and meditating on Scripture.

Rosenthal's prayer method consists

plished poetry in the tradition of some of

story, the director instinctively ruled out

rorist attacks of Sept.

method

step

is

1 1

,

200 1 Her four.

modeled on

divina,"

The

America's best confessional poets.

poems, written over the past 20 years, are dedicated to Denise Levertov and show her influence in both style and subject.

The poems

are chiefly about loss

and the experiences of faith, change and 1

growth. Father Bodo primarily uses fi"ee verse as he directly engages nature and his childhood home of New Mexico. The

XT

MIDN ICHT

strongest

poems

in the collection are

those speaking of loss

— deeply

interior,

Combined with Rosenthal's prayer

"How

asks,

does the

poem

lead

me

method. Father Bodo's poems would serve well those who grieve loss and are looking for a way to develop their

invitation:

—

."

The

—

"And,

finally,

I

talkers, the brash girls, the challengers

of

the status quo. She wanted a placid girl

who knew how to be sUent.

The incompleteness of this image

of

—

Mary, reinforced through centuries of

God which

evident in Sunday's Gospel for the Feast of the

There, not only do the blind see and the deaf hear and the imprisoned walk free, but death itself becomes a

artistic

representations,

is

Assumption.

The feast honors Mary's unique human salvation, and it glori-

fies

for the

whole person, „

power of

4

freed her "from the corrup-

Questions: In which aspects of your life do you relate to the poor, the humble, the down trodden? In which do you relate to tl rich, the privileged, the proud?

the fidelity and saving

God which

coming inaugurates.

his

pathway to life body and soul.

role in

tomb" so that "when the course of her earthly life was finished, \^she] was taken up, body and soul, into the glory of heaven" (Pius XII,

WEEKLY SCRIPTURE

deeply personal experiences of faith and loss, although at times a bit wordy, are

never sugarcoated.

There are plenty of good poems out there that would work well with

Third, she moves to the

."

Mary

totality

prayer. Father Bodo's treatment of his

to

hope?" Next, she enters into a more reflective mode by suggesting "And so I

might pray

role of

tion of the

l3Tical elegies.

of four movements.

Upon first reading the poem, she

dimension of our lives, but in "body and soul."

It is noteworthy that the church chooses for this feast a passage stressing not only Mary's humble receptivity, but her triumph and victory over injustice as well: the mighty cast down, the lowly lifted up; the rich sent away empty, the poor gathered in and fed.

Some might call such language an example of "class warfare." Catholic tradition recognizes it as the truth, the "good news" about God's priorities, about faithfulness to his promises of mercy.

It is a topsy-turvy world Mary proclaims here, and it reflects powerfully the revolutionary hope of Christ's Gospel and the kingdom of spiritual

our

Corinthians 15:20-27

and

Meanwhile, Franciscan Father Murray Bodo's collection, "The Earth Moves at Midnight and Other Poems,"

response to the violent ter-

and the prornise of an entirely transformed way of living, not only in the

Revelation 11:19a, 12:l-6a, lOab

subject take precedence.

method of poetry-based prayer in

tory over death through resurrection

C Readings:

3) Gospel:

2004

gives us hope in Christ's absolute vic-

Psalm 45:10bc, ll-12ab, 16

that her

examples were not as helpful as they could have been.

holds a doctorate in English literature,

developed

useful for indi-

who seek new ways of know that response to

viduals or groups

"Praying Through Poetry: Hope for Violent Times."

offers a

Assumption ofthe

her spiritually and literarily.

Rosenthal's method for meditation

15,

"Munificentissimus Deus," 1950).

The doctrine of Mary's assumption

Virgin Mary

REVIEWED BY

2004

WORD TO LIFE

A roundup

AugA5, The

Poetry as a

6,

might ponder

fourth step brings Rosenthal

Rosenthal's method.

Poems

that ably

back to the original poem as she looks images or phrases that offer them-

offer transformative visions stand

up for contemplative reflection.

Vvay of 10 example poems, Rosenthal demonstrates her prayer method. Rosenthal provides the full text of poems by Daniel Berrigan, Scott Cairns, Denise Levertov, Jane Hirshfield, Yehuda Amichai and others. She gives an account of her own interior, spiritual reactions to each poem, followed by explanations of where these poems "took"

ground, leaving

for

to clear or, better yet,

selves

By

it

open

till

ready

the interior

for prayer.

Begin with Seamus Heaney's "Glanmore Sonnets," whose opening line best explains

how

poetry can lead to

prayer: "Vowels ploughed into other:

opened ground."

Johnson is a Jesuit scholastic and a graduate student in English at Fordhami University in

New

SCRIPTURE FOR THE WEEK OF AUGUST Sunday (Nineteenth Sunday

in

AUGUST 14

8

Ordinary Time), Wisdom 18:6-9, Hebrews

11:1-2, 8-19, Lul<e

12:32-48; IVIonday (St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross), Ezekiel 1:2-5, 24-28, Matthew 17:22-27;

Tuesday 7;

(St.

Lawrence), 2 Corinthians 9:6-10, John 12:24-26; Wednesday

(St. Clare), Ezel<iel 9:1^

18:21— 19:1; Friday (Sts. Pontlan Saturday (St. Maximilian Mary Kolbe),

10:18-22, l\/latthew 18:15-20; Thursday, Ezekiel 12:1-2, IVlatthew

and Hippolytus),

Ezekiel 16:1-15, 60, 63,

Matthew 19:3-12;

Ezekiel 18:1-10,13, 30-32, Matthew 19:13-15

SCRIPTURE FOR THE WEEK OF AUGUST

15

AUGUST 21

Sunday (Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary), Revelation 11:19; 12:1-6, 10, 1 Corinthian^ 15:20-27, Luke 1:39-56; Monday (St. Stephen of Hungary), Ezekiel 24:15-24, Matthew 19:16-22; Tuesday, Ezekiel 28:1-10, Matthew 19:23-30; Wednesday (St. Jane Frances de ChaQtal), Ezekiel 34:1-11, Matthew 20: 1-1 6; Thursday (St. John Eudes), Ezekiel 36:23-28, Matthew 22:1-14; Friday (St.

Bernard), Ezekiel 37:1-14, Matthew 22:34-40; Saturday

(St.

Pius

Matthew

X), Ezekiel 43:1-7,

York.

23:1-12

Let stairs be our problem... not yours!

Ask about our Stairway

lifts.

PRIME R/VTE FOR LIFE

Consolidate Highlnterett

Debt

100%

Interest Rate:

No Mortgage

Financ'ms

Programs

• Easily •

Folds out of the

• Fits

Chair

& Equipment

attached to steps (not (straight 8c

•

Very affordable (rent or buy)

•

We

LOW interest g inter«st«ntY Programs

curved)

install

Rentals

&

Mortgage

Rale

Current Payment

$200,000

6.50%

$ 1,264.14

Mortgage

Rale

NEW PAYMENT

$200,000

3.7.5%

$625

I'll

Sales, Inc.

. Charlotte, NC . (800) 333-8431 Member of St Thomas Aquinas

800 Central Ave.

shown

is

Pi

until

September

2004!

NO Out-of -Pocket Closing costs

!!!!

Iwlpym realivyour lumw (rwrwrship dreams.

*Call *InU'ic-M laU-

Insurance! (PMl)

TYPICAL COMPARISON:

walls)

way

most stairways

No Payment

3.75%*

Andrew Smith

imc (4%). mimis I /4%.

bast-ti

on 80% or

(704) 965-7486 less

LTV. Subject lo underwriting conditions.

August

6,

The Catholic News & Herald 11

2004

A near-perfect 'Candidate'

Rim industry chiefs legacy be movie ratings system

will

Valenti, a Catholic, to step down in

MARK PATTISON

BY

was a small boy growing up Mass in Houston," Valenti said, "I have to teU you that when the priest said a certain picture was condemned, that made me want to see it."

"Wlien

CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE If anything, Jack Valenti will be remembered as the

man

behind movie ratings. is stepping

Valenti, a Catholic,

Sept.

as head of the

1

down

Valenti said the indispensable need

Motion Picture

is to have integrity. have no problem with a misjudgment where people think we gave a film the wrong rating," he said. "But I want no mistakes to come from malfeasance or pressure or something that has a nefarious ring to it."

A recent study by the Harvard University School of Public Health, which examined 1,906 movies between 1992 and 2003, criticized "ratings creep," the phenomenon whereby more violent and sexual content and racier dialogue are

of the rating system

Association of America after spending

38 years

at the

helm of a

"I

fractious indus-

try that has survived not only occasional CNS

Denzel Washington and Meryl Streep star pulse-pounding

suspense that

The

film is

"The Manchurian Candidate," a

a conspiracy about a soldier running

political thriller involving

for U.S. vice president.

in

a tautly paced tapestry of spine-tingling

short of the 1962 original film's masterpiece status.

falls

Several scenes of graphic violence and torture, as well as

and

—

profanity.

adults.

The USCCB

& Broadcasting

Office for Film

some crude language classification

The Motion Picture Association of America rating

Home

PHOTO FROM Paramount Pictures

is

R

—

congressional and consumer revolts over content and regulation, but plenty of infighting from its member studios.

The ratings took shape in 1968.

The concept of ratings, Valenti said, was "to put the authority of which kid goes to which movie in the hands of parents, and not anyone else, because

is A-lll

parents are responsible for the behavior restricted.

of their children, not the government. I think the school and the church have a lot to do with that, but in the end parents

make

is still

the BEST place to be.

Our CAREGivers™ provide help at

home

^Home

Companionship & shopping

•

Alzheimer's care

•

•

Light housekeeping

•

Errands

•

Meal preparation

•

Medication reminders

instead

SENIOR CARE" FREE, No-Obligation Appointment TOLL FREE: 877-713-2445 Bonded - Insured - Trained Each Home Instead Senior Care office is independently owned and operated Call for a

Advertisemefil

15 to 20 years?

to voluntarily

think that you're seeing things on televi-

Indiana Priests Host

Rose Parade

good or

to enforce the system's guide-

The

film office, like

movies

its

don't

I

bad. All

it

has,"

he

The USCCB

said. "I

20 years ago you

know whether that's I know is that it's try to

I

has been joined by sev-

eral other organizations in issuing their

own

ratings based

and

quality.

"I

on a movie's content

have no problem with

Valenti said.

"I

always say find out

that," all

can about a movie from anybody

you else.

Expand your knowledge of movies."

succes-

who

got a job at age 15 at a little bit of everything, noted that at movies, "I eat popcorn. I'm like Pavlov's dog. I salivate every time I go into a movie theater. I

in

Tnat l^ur

think

change, and I don't fight change. live with it and adjust to it."

terms of their moral suitability, a role first taken on by the Legion of Decency.

The Legion of Decency may best be known by its "C" rating, which stood for "condemned."

Is

I

sion today that 15 or didn't see.

and keep children from seeing certain movies unaccompanied by adults or from seeing them at all.

One of the people Valenti consulted in constructing the ratings system was Father Patrick J. Sullivan, liead of the old National Catholic Film Office (now known as the Office for Film & Broadcasting of the U.S. Conference of Catholic sor,* evaluated

in the past

to get virtu-

lines

Bishops).

Two

"Has the society changed

managed Hollywood studios

Owners

leniently rated films.

Valenti said he hadn't seen the methodology behind the study.

submit their films for ratings, and to get the National Association of Theater

that includes:

more

getting into

that decision."

Valenti, 82, ally all

I

Catholic and going to

—

WASHINGTON

September

Valenti,

tiieater in

Houston doing a

need popcorn."

Filial

Answer?

& Las Vegas Tour Join your Spiritual Directors Father Donald Eder, pastor of St. Patrick in

Roman

Catholic Church

'^When I m gone, who

Oxford, Indiana and Monsignor Fred Potthoff from Lafayette, Indiana, on this ever-popular

'Your Man' Tours Rose Parade Golden West Vacation. Get away from the colder weather during the

New

first

week

in

January, avoid the post holiday blahs, and enjoy the bes\

Years Day you have had

Vegas, Nevada on the

YMT's

strip;

in

years! Included

is

six nights in

receive the gifts

New Years Eve and

Los Angeles; three nights

in

Hollywood and Beverly

Hills,

Calico Ghost Town; baggage

A

will is

of

Americans die

your final answer

a will, llie laws

Garden Grove, California. You have seen the parade on TV for years; now see the excitement and hoopla of the most famous parade in America live and up close! The sights, the sounds, and especially the smells all make being there truly Cathedral

how your ''OCllKoul

As a bonus, enjoy three nights in the entertainment capital of the world, exciting Las Vegas, Nevada. You will not believe how it has changed in the last several years, making Las Vegas one of the fastest growing cities in America. Your price, including taxes airfare

tlie

state

you

60-70%

you die witliout

live in will

delermiue

in

spectacular.

and

of

to the question.

witlioiit a valid will. \{

handling, hotel transfers and optional sightseeing tours including the "Pageant of Ctiristmas" at the Crystal

God gave me?"

Las

ENJOY RESERVED GRANDSTAND SEATS AT THE ROSE PARADE;

city tour of L.A. including

will

from Baltimore or Charlotte, NC,

is

only

Friends and family are welcome. $100 deposits are

$1348

assets are divided including assets to

a will or otker cliarilaUe estate plan, cliarilaUe

you may kave for your

desires

agency, diocese or

Don

(per person, double occupancy).

't

your family

let

(lie

parisK, CatKf)lic school,

diocesan fouiulation will

your final answer he

.he

ignored.

silence.

now due.

For information, brochure, and Fathers'

letter call

today: ofiha

'YOUR MAN' lOURS

Roman CailioBc DIocaaa of Chailane

1-800-968-7626 7»

Providing Carefree Vacations Since 1967!

m'v;r;c'

,1

/";«'

Uwlil:! "Be.lU-r I'.fUiU: I'lannimj"

704-370-3320, 1123

S.

Church

twilm! Gina KhoJc., Dyrcdor of PL,)iu-J Clilini, NC 28203, gwrliJesCa JiarlotK'Jicccsc.orj

Street, CharlotU,

12 The Catholic News & Herald

Bishops, called the letter "a timely reminder of both the equality of men and women and also of the distinctive

Vatican: Battle of sexes not

difference

part of God's design

cause of women by seeing

men as enemies

by claiming that no real difference exists between male and female have had 'lethal effects," particularly on to be defeated or

the family, the congregation said.

The congregation's "Letter to the Bishops of the Catholic Church on the Collaboration of Men and Women in the

World" was

released

Policy, said that "too often in our con-

will build

considered a plus.

Send cover letter, resume, salary requirements and references to Fr. Frank McNamee, Pastor, St Peter Chanel Catholic Church, 11330 Woodstod^ Road, Roswell,

GA

for all Christians, is a model of the proper power of femininity, it said.

The document said attempts to con-

spired ideologies "which, for example, call into question the family in

Catholic SoServices Charlotte Regional Office. Requirements: master's level degree in social work, counseling, or other human resource field with 3 years' po.st-graduate counseling experience, including administrative or supervisory responsibility. Send resume to: Geri King,' Catholic Social Services, 1123 S. Church Street, Charlotte, NC 28203. cial

The

sexuality and heterosexuality virtually

phous

The

is

sionate, excellent

communicator

lead vigorous, diverse ministry

to build

â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

and

grades 6-12

Send; Letter explaining interest in youth ministry; resume including education history, leadership experience; and references to: Holy Family Catholic Church, Faith Formation Office, PO 27012. Application Box 130, Clemmons,

NC

deadline: October

1,

as the givers of

not

SERVICES

teacher must have experience teaching students who are gifted and talented. A master's degree is preferred, Plea.sc send resume

TEACHER AND COUNSELOR:

INSURANCE:

should be consid-

the vocation of virgin-

Christianity "refutes any at-

ity, it said,

tempt to enclose

said.

is

women."

cal destiny."

women

in

mere

biologi-

needed in the world,

is

and poor and advance

WANT MORE INFO? The document can be found on

said.

Web site

Vatican's

the

at: http://

www.vatican.va

JOIN US FOR A GREAT CATHOLIC CONFERENCE!

The Third Arniual

TRIUMPH OF THE CROII

1125

Building a Catkollc Culture

-

Friday evening, Sept. 10 St.

Barnabas Church

in

Sat., Sept.

It

Arden (near Asheville

airport)

Main Speaker: Come and hear Paul Thigpen, author of several books including The Rapture Trap, nationally-known speaker on the Catholic faith and apologetics, and the newly-appointed editor of Our Sunday Visitor's "The Catholic Answer."

Workshops: Also offered

will

be a wide variety of workshops taught by

experts covering prayer, sacraments, inculturation, marriage and family and much more!! abortion healing, faith and fundamentalism

priests life,

and

lay

post-

Mike 'Wilkinson

IVIass

and powerful musical celebration with

9/3 AND SAVE $5!!

Barnabas Church 828-684-6098

REGISTER BEFORE

Best Health Insurance plans at.

best rates! Call

For more information,

(704) 845-

call: St.

1416.

Name

Immaculata

PRODUCTS

School announces two openings to begin with the 2004/05 school year: 1) Elementary School Counselor: .'3/5th time and 2) First Grade Teacher - Full-Time. .Send letter of application

HOT

TUB/SPA:

'04

wrapper, 6 person, 3!

ASAP to William Meehan, PrinciImmaculata Catholic School, 711 Buncombe St., Hender.sonville, NC 28791. and resume

jets,

pal,

warranty.

(704)65 1-7977.

redwood

Address

Luxury model jets,

in

factory

ozonator, chrome

cabinet, aromatherapy, never

used,

Ph. No.

Cost $6700,

sell

$3625.

Cost: Save $5 with early registration:

Before

9/3:

chips,

Please check preference(s);

ads bring results! Over 125,000 readers! Over 49,000 homes!

Rates: $.70/word per issue ($14 minimum per issue)

***TEENS are FREE

After 9/3: $15 Adult

$10 Adult

Lunches (sub sandwich,

fruit,

cool<ie,

soda)

may be

Ham

Turkey sub

ordered

No. of teens

-

in

advance

for

II

$5 each.

Tuna sub

sub

No. of adults X fee =

Classified

that

By upholding

are sq

life,

Music: AND, don't miss Friday evening's local musicians and choirs!

Patrick School needs a Gifted and Talented

Principal, 28203.

women

a

â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

2004.

St

tea( lier.The

NC

mean

is

does

"this

ered from the sole perspective of physical

Buildins Catholic Famlllet

applicant's availability, qualifications, vision.

Greensboro, NC 27410; fax (336) 294-6149; email sbarnes@stpaulcc.org.

Montague,

motherhood

key part of a woman's identity

Parish of

youth. Salary/hours flexible, commensurate to

Send resume and a statement of your vision of Faith Formation to: Faith Formation Search Committee, St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, 2715 Horse Pen Creek Road,

Charlotte,

of pol)TTior-

said.

doctrinal congregation also said

ance family and work," the cardinal

1500 families seeks dynamic, qualified applicant as Youth Ministry Director. Seeking spiritual, creative, motivated, organized, compa.s~

field.

St.,

it

that although potential

particularly in formulating political

YOUTH MINISTRY DIRECTOR:

master's degree in theology, religious education

Angela

sexuality,"

often caught trying to successfully bal-

jmcandrews@sainttherese.net or fax 704-6606321.

a full-time Director of Faith FormaCandidate must be experienced with

Buchanan

new model

equivalent in a

people and, in particular, support

Therese Catholic Church, 217 Brawley School Rd., Mooresville, NC 28 117; em,ail

seeking

to:

affirmation that differences are

only social constructs also "make homo-

St.

Our

TEACHER, GIFTED AND TALENTED:

natural two-

for

all

builder, organizer, good communications needed. Degree or commensurate experience; certification in youth ministry or desire to certify. Send applications to Fr. Jerry McAndrews,

COUNSELING SUPERVISOR:

or a related

its

parent structure of mother and father."

YOUTH

EMPLOYMENT

tion.

are simply cultural have in-

sexual discrimination, support the gifts

MINISTER: Needed for vital, active, growing suburban parisli near Charlotte. Parttime; hours and benefits negotiable. Team

families-

women

and

The church, too, needs collaboration in order to bring "feminine values" of listen-

growing parish community of 1500

men

vince people that differences between

"accompanied by dangerous disrespect

the cause of peace, the document

DIRECTOR OF FAITH FORMATION:

Blessed Virgin Mary, held up in

procreation," an attitude which often

social policies to help the

Classifieds

not "a passiv-

best develop social policies to eliminate

Collatxaration

30075 or email to fmcnamee@stpeterchanel.org.

The

in the 'image

is

women who,

and benefits included.

is

by an outdated conception of

the document as an example of discipleship

"It is

commensurate

with experience

priests,

of God,"' he said. through respect for and collaboration with each other that we can that

of

services,

said.

femininity."

temporary society the diflferences between men and women are minimized in the apparent belief the sexes must be the same to be equal."

He said an "us versus them" attitude and an emphasis on the individual and individual rights above all else also are addressed by the letter.

Cardinal McCarrick said the letter reminds the world that "God created men and women as equals, not to oppose each other, but to collaborate and work together in mutual respect for the good of each other and of society."

Only by embracing, valuing and respecting the differences between men and women "do we have the humanity

must have a good working knowledge of Catholic liturgical and the ability to maintain a traditional worship repertoire while building a contemporary music program, A music degree is preferred. Competitive salary Qualified candidate

ity inspired

Committee on Domestic

bishops'

Music in a young, dynamic parish of 1,600+ on existing music program that includes adult and youth choir, children's choir, cantors, contemporary ensembles and youth band.

Position requires excellent keyboard/organ and vocal skills, experience in choral music, ensemble leadership, as well as administrative, budgeting and Proficiency on a secondary instrument such as guitar communication skills.

The selected candidate

can be ordained

of women in the church

the U.S.

Rather than compete for power or ignore the God-given differences between men and women, "the church, enlightened by faith in Jesus Christ, speaks instead of active collaboration between the sexes," said the document, approved

by Pope John Paul II. In the United States the same day.

Bishop Wilton D. Gregory, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic

Exciting opportunity awaits the Director of

it

the doctrinal congregation said the role

July 31.

Roswell, Georgia

men

that only

in creation."

who heads

McCarrick,

E.

forefront,

While reaffirming church teaching

Washington Cardinal Theodore in the

MUSIC DIRECTOR families.

and caring more to the

2004

6,

understanding

ing, faithfulness, humility,

between them with which

God endowed them

Church and BATTLE, from page 1

August

THE NEWS

IN

-

FREE

No. of meals x $5 =

Deadline: 12 noon Wednesday, 9 days before publication Total enclosed

How to order: Ads may be E-mailed to ckfeerick(gcharlottediocese.org, faxed to (704) 370-3382 or mailed .

Cindi Feerick,

The

Catholic

News &

Herald,

1

to:

123 S. Church

Payment: For information,

call

St.,

Charlotte,

(704) 370-3332.

NC 28203.

Mail registration form

Nazareth House,

.

and checb payable to:

1

PO Box 432, Asheville, NC 28802.

Confirmation

will

be mailed upon

receipt.

i

August

6,

The Catholic News & Herald 13

2004

AROUND THE DIOCESE

Breaking new ground

Introducing Pennybyrn Along the wooded cove of

High Point City Lake, God's handiwork

is

everywhere.

Worship in our Meditation chapel

Discover nature's beauty while walking our trails Courtesy Photo

Father Michael

Learn a

new

in

craft

our

woodworking shop

Buttner, pastor (center right), and Father Adrian Porras, former

J.

parochial vicar (center

Clemmons June Schumacher;

break ground for the new Holy Family Church in in manning the shovels were Rev. Mr. Jerry

left),

the priests

5. Joining

Guy Piche, diocesan property manager; Bill Lawler and Ray Campaign committee; and Jerry Long, chairman of the Building Committee.

Rev. Mr.

Miller representing the Capital.

Father Buttner and Father Porras concelebrated a Mass of thanksgiving to celebrate

On-site

maintenance brings

Columbus gifts to

fast repairs

new church

the progress towards the

prior to the groundbreaking.

led a procession at the beginning of the Mass;

the

including a gold shovel

altar,

to the site of the

new

The Knights of

escorted the offertory

and a hardhat; and

led the procession out

building for the groundbreaking ceremony.

Parishioners of Holy Family Church brought small, decorated stones that

the part of the building's foundation under the altar

in

will

become

the completed church.

Pets are always

welcome

Choices of

flexible

(omiHC IN ^;PKm^ÂŤ...

CATHOLIC SCRIPTURE STUDY FEATURING

mm

financial options

Join thousands of Catholics around the world

The new Pennybyrn

the exciting book of at

Maryfield

will offer

an exciting,

Exodus

this

fall.

You'll

who

will

be delving

into

never again think the Old

Testament

is

Exodus

an amazingly eye-opening book, especially

boring!

customizable retirement

lifestyle unlike any other in the Piedmont Triad region. New and elegantly-appointed apartments and cottages spread amidst 66 acres of magnificent trees and rolling hills! To reserve or learn more,

Call (336) 886-4103.

Toll Free l-(866)-627-9343..

P6KIKIV BVKKI MARYFIELD A

Continuing Care Retirement Community

Learn

Is

how

the Eucharist

of the parting of the

life-changing.

Classes

will

It

Is

Sisters of the

Poor Servants of the Mother of

God

Red Sea, and more! This book has

the

be held

Word

for Catholics!

prefigured by the Passover, the symbolism

betrayal, plagues, Idolatry, miracles

of

-

and

it's all

true!

it

ail -

Best of

murder, all,

it

is

God.

at St. Vincent's parish in Charlotte.

Wednesday

morning classes begin September 22nd. Thursday evening classes begin September 23rd.

For info, contact Gail Buciiley at (704) 965-0953.

Visit

Sponsored by the

is

www.cathoiicscripturestudy.com

for info

on Catholic Scripture Study.

14 The Catholic News & Herald

August

Perspectives

A

collection of columns,

editorials

and viewpoints

6,

2004

Pope, at audience, adapts to relaxed pace of August in Italy

A call to prison

WOODEN

BY CINDY CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

CASTEL GANDOLFO,

of his summer residence, hosting a shortened, almost intimate version of his weekly general audience.

For the Aug. 4 audience, the

Why would we go to visit someone or prison

who broke

—

a criminal, a person

the law and deserves what-

ever punishment the court gives them?

What

if

we caught something from one

What

of them?

if

hold us hostage

they tried to hurt

or,

heaven

You know how

to rob us?

Column REV.

forbid, tried

do

else

it.

After

lains that are paid to take care of

We

don't

know what

to say to one of

We

them. hear that some of them cannot speak English.

Do

any of these thoughts come into your mind when you are asked to visit or minister to someone in prison? Matthew tells us what Jesus expects from US: "I was in prison and you visited me.

Whatever you did for one of these least brothers, of mine, you did it for me." cannot all be actively involved in prison ministry. For many, our schedules do not allow us to take on additional ministries. Many people have indicated that they would go to a prison if needed but not regularly. This would definitely fill a need that occurs fi-om time to time and can make a difference in someone's life.

My prison ministry began more than 16 years ago at the request of a brother deacon. Rev. Mr. Tim Rohan.

He asked me to visit the son of a fellow parishioner who was in the youth prison in Morganton. This young man was a joy to visit each week. Both of us looked forward to the visit.

I did not catch anything from him and he did not rob me. I did not solve any of his problems, but I did a lot of listening. I think that the most important thing I did was just be present for him. The person I was when visiting the young man was not me but Jesus ministering through me.

I have learned things through the years at the prison. I have learned that each inmate is a unique person; all are

We

on

faith

journeys, are at different points

in their lives

and have

Guest Columnist

some-

they have chapthem.

all,

MR. JIM

JOHNSON

different needs.

Some

are satisfied having a visit once a month; some would like a Bible and a rosary and know that if they wanted a visit,

someone would come. Some

would

like to

be baptized and/or con-

firmed, while others

from a

would

like a visit

priest.

some inmates,

I have planted have watered and nourished seeds that were planted by others; and in some, I have been there

In

seeds; in others,

for the harvest.

ation to exaltation," offering

man his guests that the

of the writer for

think

I

important, although

clarity, style

for publication,

each

letter

and

factual

is

it

Send

never had in their

I

have been fortu-

nate to have the support and encour-

agement of Father Ken Whittington, pastor of St. Charles Borromeo Church in Morganton. There are several volunteers from the parish who teach Bible

rection, Jesus ascended "from humiliall

hu-

beings a chance to be saved, the

pope

said.

^

the Editor Hardball would better

that affects defenseless children."

oners. In addition, Hispanic volunteers

minister to the Spanish-speaking in-

responsible for the "horrid" conditions?

studies and share their faith with pris-

mates by offering a weekly Bible study for them.

The come tive

— John O'Malley

ministry at the prison.

And

but not least, we have the blessing, support and prayers of our bishop. last,

bered more

— not because

but because

it

was supposed

to be better

In this sorry scandal,

Mr. Hains

there

is

absolutely nothing of which oui

church can be proud.

Joan LaU

—

Hickory |||

War pers in the region

pursue

this

worthy

in Iraq not justified

We

shared the details of "Harvesters of sorrow" with other newspaEditor's note:

and encouraged them

to

In regard to Father Frank Pavone';

iiia,

column ("Abortion

vs.

War," July

deacon at

Mr. Johnson St.

permanent Charles Borromeo Church in is

the

Morganton.

and be

in

good

taste.

must include the name, address and daytime phone number

may be condensed due to space limitations and

edited for

History won't be kind Hains'

guest

column

Items submitted to The

are subject to reuse,

in

whole or in

formats and archives.

The Catholic News & Herald, P.O. Box.37267, Charlotte, N.C.

I

with him on the point that

someone that the

else to

war

come

cannot agre( it is

"OK

nei

foi

to the conclusiot

(in Iraq) is justified."

Faithful Catholics need to look

m

compare the of the John Jay study

farther than the Catholic Church' teachings on just war to see "the Churcl

detailing sexual abuse in the Catholic

has raised serious- moral concerns anf

Church with a June study on sexual misconduct by educators.

Hains the church's says acknowledgement of this "serious social problem" will be remembered more than

questions about preemptive or preventa.

that of subsequent institutions because letter or petitions.

leci

target innocent

David

We ask that letters be originals of 250 words

issues,

9), I d(

agree that every abortion does in fac life and is always morally

story.

unacceptable. However,

Rev.

it

Pisgah Forest

chaplain at the prison has be-

good friend and is very cooperaand supportive in our Catholic a

rememwas first

Indeed, the church will be

benefit harvesters Regarding the "Harvesters of sorrow" story (July 23), rather than telling about what a great ministry the church has for the migrants, would it not have been more productive to expose those

from readers.

28237, ore-mail catholicnews@charlottediocese.org.

al-

most emptied himself of that glory," becoming "similar to human beings and going so far as to assume ^hat sign of limitedness and finiteness which is death."

But through his cross and resur-

lives.

In this ministry,

accuracy

letters to Letters to the Editor,

was God, the pope

Letters to

someone to give them some attention and show some concern. This is something that many of the young men have

News & Herald become the property of the newspaper and

part, in print, electronic

truly

"stripped himself and

it is not so very satisfy-

be a harvester. I think that more of us are seed planters and waterers.

In our work, many young inmates, 14-18 years of age, seem to just want

The Catholic News & Herald does not publish poetry, form Catholic

While he said, Jesus

ing, to

newspaper content or Catholic

purpose of verification. Letters

the universe."

I

WRITE A LETTER TO THE EDITOR

To be considered

on the Chrisunderstanding of who Jesus is: He is "recognized and proclaimed our brother in humanity, but also Lord of

canticle shines a light

human likeness."

The pope told

February release

letters

II

taking the form of a slave, coming in

abuse," July 23) seeks to

The Catholic News & Hera/d welcomes

POPE

JOHN PAUL

tian

("Church scrutiny leads fight against

or less, pertain to recent

Speaks

psalms and canticles used in the church's evening prayer, the Vatican decided to shorten the gathering by skipping the usual summaries of the pope's talk in French, English, German, Spanish and Polish.

In his audience talk, Pope John Paul offered a meditation on a canticle from the Letter to the Philippians about Jesus, "who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. Rather, he emptied himself, talks about

us,

We are too busy doing God's work one

courtyard of the villa at Castel Gandolfo, south of Rome, was packed.

While the pope continued his series of

Guest

"they" are.

to be bothered with "them." Let

— The Pope

Pope John Paul II welcomed an estimated 3,500 visitors to the courtyard

ministry? in jail

Italy

the church

was

"first

to be so forthcom-

And he says, "As Catholics, we can be proud of the fact that our church led the way in identifying and removing a serious problem ing about this problem."

tive use of force" (pg.

Citizenship:

A

19 of "Faithfu

Catholic Call to Politica

by the USCCB). would urge every person in ou community to read No. 2309 in ou Catholic Catechism to plainly see th| the rigorous conditions for moral legin Responsibility," I

macy have not been

— Linda Flynn Charlotte

met. '

i

I

lit)

On

August

6,

The Catholic News & Herald 15

2004

The vineyard of the church

Openly

Rachels Vineyard offers Christ s healingpower for abortion

discussing

cannot think of another work of kind so well done," Father Benedict Groeschel has written of Rachel's Vine-

group dramatizes

"I

this

"A most

and painful huengaged with faith, psychological insight and trust."

Having been involved for years in these retreats for people wounded by yard.

man problem

difficult

is

I could not agree more with the above assessment. That is why I was so pleased when Theresa and Kevin Burke,

Guest

the founders of Rachel's Vineyard, approached me at the end of last year with the request that this retreat program become a ministry of Priests for Life.

As such, it is now becoming even better known by the priests of the nation and provides yet another way for them to extend the healing power of Christ through the sacrament of reconciliation,

through

counseling

and

through

preaching. Moreover, the Rachel's Vine-

yard retreat can also be conducted in an ecumenical format, allowing Christians

denominations to take part in a is consistent with their own background.

Rachel's' Vineyard is a weekend retreat experience for women and men who have lost children through abortion. With the assistance of counselors and clergy, they explore the emotional and spiritual pain of their abortion in the

of

all

way

that

and gestures to make

more

FATHER FRANK PAVONE Guest Columnist presence of the Lord and in a confidential and supportive atmosphere.

Because the wound of abortion is compounded by its secrecy and in fact consists of a destructive isolation of the individual, the person on the retreat finds a new fi-eedom by sharing his or her pain with the others on the retreat, who have all had similar experiences, and benefits from their understanding, acceptance and additional insight.

One of the most powerful and unique aspects of the retreat is the use of "Living Scriptures." This is essentially a

on various Scriptural events, utilizing a traditional method of meditation on Scripture by which a person imagines him- or herself present at the event and involved in it.

But instead of having this reflection within oneself and only in thought, the group

together, again uti-

proach; namely, using signs, symbols

Column

abortion,

it

lizing a very traditional Catholic ap-

reflection

spiritual realities

tangible.

A simple example of this is the healing of Bartimaeus in chapter 10 of Mark's Gospel. At Rachel's Vineyard, this passage is read in the presence of all; the priest then goes to each person, along with a team member, who says, "Have courage, he is calling you." The person says, "Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me." The priest then says Jesus' words: "Wliat do you want me to do for you?"

The person then makes her request, in his or her own words. The priest bestows an individual blessing.

Thousands of Rachel's Vineyard retreats are taking place around the United States and around the world.

Many dioceses have officially adopted program for their abortion healing As more and more people come

this

ministry.

forward, breaking out of their guilt and shame-filled isolation, let us

them together

anotlier's

welcome

to the Vineyard of the

wrongdoing Question

Comer FATHER JOHN DIETZEN

CNS Columnist

Destroying Si

persons good

name is sinful

Church!

See

related story

on page

For more Information,

Q. I'm an old senior, still typing on but I am concerned

my manual typewriter,

7.

about some "forgivers" who insist on telling others about the persons and deeds

visit

www.rachelsvineyard.org.

that need forgiveness. Twice this has happened recently that the one doing the forgiving tells friends about it, and the offender's reputation

is

destroyed.

Even if you're willing to forgive, isn't it wrong to expose someone's faults?

Perhaps the person who has been hurt

Communities of joy

feels better" emotionally after talking about the problem, but it still sounds like

Jesus challenges us to accept his gift

pure gossip

Your

A. Since joy is the infallible sign of the presence of the Holy Spirit, creating a community of joy should be the goal of every parish. Every pastor should do his best to foster this atmo-

sphere of joy and emotional comfort, so that his people can worship God joyfully. In the

Holy

with one voice.

Joyful worship

Spirit,

forms and inspires it.

The mystery of the church transcends human life. Two of the three branches of the church are already

The members of the are in heaven and purgaus up to greater heights.

living joyfully.

who

lift

The church triumphant consists of those who have attained the bliss of heaven, namely, the beatific vision.

The church

^1

suffering consists of

Jesus said,

we

follow him,

we

There

When

receive in us a joy

that this world cannot give.

The people of joy consist of those heaven, in purgatory, as well as those on earth who participate in God's life. The church militant must live in a sea of human hatred and violence. Jesus predicted it, "In this in

FATHER JOHN CATOIR CNS Guest Columnist

is

people of God. It is not primarily an institution or a group of buildings.

The church is essentially a community of joy,- a community different from all other human groupings because the joy of the Holy Spirit in-

tory

forToday

world you

life

Second Vatican Council documents teach us that the church is the

church

Spirituality

we pray

the best way to of the Trinity. By sharing in God's Trinitarian life, we become an "Easter people, and Alleluia becomes our .song" (St. Augustine).

participate in the

and physical.

"I am the Way."

pain, emotional

will

have

many

troubles

but cheer up, take heart, for those in purgatory. This title is a misnomer because those in purgatory have the deep joy of knowing that they are exceedingly close to the beatific

vision.

They experience God's

presence as never before, and are confirmed in grace.

Though they still await the fullness of joy, they know a happiness that they have never known before.

St.

Thomas Aquinas

said

that the

worst day in purgatory is better than the best day anyone could spend on earth.

We on earth are called the church We know we are saved by

I

have

overcome the world." the

of the blessed Trinity, which is a life of intense love and joy.

As members of the church militant we do not as yet have the fullness of joy, but by faith we can claim a greater share of it.

Jesus told us that he wants our joy to be full. must rise to his challenge and accept his gift. And we can do a better job by not trying to go it alone by forming little cells of joy we can make progress. Prayer groups can find prayers and readlife

We

â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

which

militant.

ings,

the sacrificial death of Jesus, but we are not yet free of the woes of this world. are still capable of sin. The

By forming little communities of joy, we can become carriers of Divine

We

tensions

we

experience in trying to combat evil is a constant source of

Joy. This

lift

the spirits.

is our goal: to choose joy over sorrow because joy is our vocation and our destiny.

is

instincts are correct.

something wrong with a per-

son who feels that willingness to forgive bestows the right to discuss what happened with everyone else.

It is true that forgiving and forgetting are not the same. If someone deliberately injures us or someone we love, it is possibly beyond our power to totally forget. Despite our best intentions, the

memory may

resurface

often, especially if later circumstances

create the opportunity for a repeat of

the injury.

An

All three parts of the church share in

to me. (Illinois)

essential element of authentic

forgiveness, however, to give

is

willingness

up resentment and

ill

will, to

go of the desire to "get even" and take revenge on the person who has done us wrong. To willfully destroy another's good name is a serious injury and sinful. The fact that the other person has done harm to us doesn't change that. let

A

free brochure describing basic and moral precepts is available by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to Father John Dietzen, Box 325, Peoria, IL 61651.

Catholic prayers, beliefs

Questions

may

be sent to

Father

Dietzen at the same address, or e-mail: jjdietzen@aol.com.

,

August

2004

6,

The Catholic News & Herald 16

AROUND THE DIOCESE

Up to the challenge ybuth ministers to receive training resource BY

KAREN A. EVANS STAFF WRITER

CHARLOTTE

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Diocesan youth

now have

a comprehensive them in their ministries.

Promulgated by Bishop Peter J. Jugis in April 2004, 'The main purpose of the new 'Youth Ministry Hand-

ministers

REVIVAL

resource to aid

book' is to have a resource for every youth minister, whether they are experienced or new to the job," said Peg Ruble, associate director for the diocesan Office

Sponsored by

of Youth Ministry.

More than three years ago, realizing that the need for such a resource

was

African American Affairs IVIinistry

far-

reaching in the diocese, Paul Kotlowski,

of tlie Diocese of Cliarlotte

director for the diocesan Office of Youth

Ministry, and Ruble set about forming a

To be held

team of volunteers to compile the resource for all youth ministers in the Diocese of Charlotte.

Although each volunteer took charge of one section of the book, Ruble said it was a collaborative effort as they critiqued the work-in-progress, every-

one adding their own input.

According to Ruble, Sister Mary Timothy Warren, vicar for women religious in the Diocese of Charlotte, also provided valuable editorial support.

After countless hours of writing, discussion and editing by the team of vol-

"Youth Ministry Hand-

book" was completed in Spring 2004.

"In part, what Bishop Jugis promulgated for the Diocese of Charlotte is a ministry formation process which adopts the recently published "National

Lay Ecclesial approved by the U.S. bishops' Commission on Certification and Certification Standards for

Ministers,'

Accreditation," said Kotlowski.

The

national standards

were devel-

oped by the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry, the National Association of Lay Ministers and the National Conference of Catechetical

Leadership,

three organizations which advocate and support Catholic ministry on the national, diocesan and

local levels.

National Federation has devel-

oped a code of ethics for youth ministry leaders that outlines the obligations of

youth ministers, including their ministerial

role,

liability,

accountability and

conduct.

Each parish within the diocese will receive a handbook for use by tfieir youth minister. The book will also be available online

Web

on the diocesan

and the learning platform Blackboard.com.

The handbook will serve as a learning tool to help youth ministers meet the national standards, Kotlowski said.

The handbook may be the first of its site

associate

director

and Peg Ruble,

for

diocesan

the

through

Youth Ministry, examine the

Office of

new "Youth

Sunday, August 15

Ministry Handbook."

states, "Lay persons who devote themselves permanently or tem.porarily to some special service of the church are obliged to acquire the appropriate for-

which

mation which

is

required to

fulfill

function properly and to carry

their

out conscientiously, zealously and diliit

The Revival

an opportunity to publicly worship our God the black church while at the same time breaking down traditional misconceptions of Catholicism by our Protestant brothers and sisters.

In

the

Is

spirit of

gently."

"What's exciting about competency-based formation and certification based on nationally approved standards

is

that

it

introduces accountabil-

born through evidence as people demonstrate their proficiency and ity

knowledge," said Kotlowski.

'This is the dawn of a brand-new era in the area of ministry formation for the Diocese of Charlotte and the United States," he said. "We're happy to be a part of this emerging formation process."

"Heretofore, having a degree (in ministry) has been good enough, without demonstrating the ability to assimilate that degree into ministerial practice," said

What

Kotlowski. these competency standards

call for is a

demonstration of

skills,

not

"Youth ministry

is

challenging,"

said Kotlowski. "All too often people are

asked to take part in youth ministry with little or no training."

"This is a learner-driven practice that calls people to national standards," said Kotlowski. "Ministers will be able to set their own pace as they work toward achieving the standards."

"I welcomed the opportunity to promulgate the 'Youth Ministry Hand-

book,'" said Bishop Jugis. "It

is

a rich

resource that addresses three vital areas

ALL ARE WELCOME! WEEKEND SCHEDULE Thursday, Aug.

13

7pm Gospel Concert

Music

Music by: St. IVIark

by: First Baptist Cliurcli West Charlotte.

NC

8pm

United

8pm

Preaching

Preaching

Sr. Patricia Haley,

SON

Diocese of St.

Sr. Patricia Haley,

SCN

Diocese of

Petersburg, Florida

Saturday, Aug.

14

St.

Petersburg, Florida

Sunday, Aug. 15

7pm

Ham

Gospel Concert

Closing worship

Music

A

iViethodist Church Charlotte, NC

Music

by:

Emmanuel

Baptist

Wfnston-Salem,

by:

The Perpetual Hope Gospel Choir

Church

NC

Sr. Patricia Haley,

commissioned to teach the truth

Diocese of

Kotlowski said the basis of youth ministry training and formation is derived from the Code of Canon Law 23 1

Contact Staff Writer Karen A. Evans by calling (704) 370-3354 or e-mail

in love."

Friday, Aug.

7pm

contains the competency-based formation. it

12

Gospel Concert

of ministry to youth: the call to and promotion of holiness; the creation of a safe and secure environment; and the formation of the ministers as persons

kind, in that

NC

Thursday, August 12

Paul Kotlowski, director for the diocesan Office of Youth Ministry,

just a diploma, said Ruble.

The

Charlotte,

Photo by Karen A. Evans

A team of youth ministers consisting of Marilyn Kravitz, Mary Herr, Steve Bernardi, Marie Martino, Debbie Kovachik, Connie Cupello and Maryann Poll set about to develop the handbook.

unteers, the

Our Lady of Consolation Church

at:

2301 Statesville Ave.,

8pm Preaching

SCN

Charlotte,

NC

Celebrant and Homilist Msgr. Maurlcio W. West Chancellor and Vicar General Diocese of Charlotte

St. Petersburg, Florida

kaevans@charhttediocese.org.

For more information, piease call 704-370-3339