The Catholic News & Herald 1
February 15, 2002
February 15, 2002 Volume 11 t Number 22
Inside Diocesan doctor brings comfort to Jamaican children
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Asheville Catholic students make wishes come true
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Local News Harambee Masses celebrate faith and heritage
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Every Week Entertainment ...Pages 6-7
Editorials & Columns ...Pages 8-9
S e r v i n g C a t h o l i c s in Western North Carolina in the Diocese of Charlotte
Bishop Emeritus Michael J. Begley Founding Bishop of the Diocese of Charlotte dies at 92 By Joann S. Keane Editor HIGH POINT — Bishop Michael J. Begley, bishop emeritus of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte died Saturday, Feb. 9 at Maryfield Nursing Home in High Point, where he had lived since 1997. The retired bishop was 92. “The Diocese of Charlotte was truly blessed with this good and holy man of God,” said Bishop William G. Curlin. “All who knew him can testify to his deep love for Christ and his zealous dedication to his priestly ministry. Humility and simplicity of life were among his cardinal virtues,” said Bishop Curlin. Appointed by Pope Paul VI as the first bishop of the Diocese of Charlotte in 1971, Bishop Begley was ordained bishop of the 46-country diocese on Jan. 12, 1972. He served the diocese until his retirement on May 29, 1984. As first bishop of the Diocese of Charlotte, Begley took as his motto; Diligimus Fratres ‘We Have Loved the Brethren.’ During his tenure as bishop, he was a leader in the ecumenical movement in North Carolina, and his efforts earned praise from leaders of many denominations. The spiritual leader of the Charlotte diocese (then considered missionary territory), Bishop Begley quickly earned a widespread reputation as a kind-hearted champion of the poor, a zealous preacher of the Scriptures, an enthusiastic bridge-builder in the ecumenical community, and a humble administrator who counted on the blessings and contributions of many. Among his legacies to the Diocese of Charlotte was his openness in allowing the diocese to grow in many different for its forthright approach to the problems of the people in the economically depressed area. “Bishop Begley provided great comfort and encouragement to many people across the Diocese of Charlotte throughout the years,” said Bishop Curlin. “His leadership and kindness are to be treasured.” Bishop Begley was to lie in state
directions. However, foremost to the bishop were social concerns — especially the condition of the poor. As chairperson of the Commission on Religion in Appalachia, he led 26 bishops from 13 states in issuing a joint pastoral letter on the state of the powerless in the mountain region. “This Land Is Home To Me,” attracted national attention
Feb. 14 at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. A vigil service for Bishop Begley was celebrated at 7 p.m. that evening. Mass of Christian Burial was Friday, Feb. 15 at St. Gabriel Church, with burial at Belmont Abbey in Belmont. Editor’s note: The Feb. 22 edition of The Catholic News & Herald will contain a 16-page tribute to Bishop Michael J. Begley, including coverage of the funeral Mass.
Conference shortens Catholic and Islamic culture
Next week: The Catholic News & Herald is dedicated to Bishop Michael J. Begley, with remembrances and coverage of his funeral Mass.
By Kevin E. Murray Associate Editor CHARLOTTE — To know thy enemy is to know thyself. And then, perhaps, you realize you’re not all that different, after all. Approximately 120 people gathered for “Catholic and Islamic Perspectives on War, Peace and Solidarity: Growing in Knowledge, Seeking Peace” at St. Thomas Aquinas Church
Feb. 9. The conference, sponsored by the Diocese of Charlotte Office of Justice and Peace and Catholic Social Services, was intended to deepen cultural understanding and to serve as a training module for the diocese. “The Office of Justice and Peace believed that a teachable moment existed as a result of September 11,” said Office of Justice and Peace Director Joseph Purello in his opening presentation. “Catholics ought to hear, we felt, what the church is saying about war, about peace, about Islam, about solidarity.” The conference’s objectives included helping Catholics: develop an ethical response to war and peace; deepen their understanding of Islam and the Islamic world; and understand different aspects of solidarity.
“Today, we also gather in response to the signs of the times, and once again we are able to draw on church teachings put forth in response to the horrific acts of September 11,” said Purello. Joan Rosenhauer and Dr. Mumtaz Ahmad each gave two presentations at the conference. “Many Catholics are not aware of our teachings on war and peace as they form opinions on what should and should not be done,” said Rosenhauer, special projects coordinator for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishop’s Department of Social Development and World Peace. “It’s time to sit down and ... develop an understanding between Muslims and Catholics on these fundamental issues of
See Conference, page 2
2 The Catholic News & Herald Panelists at Senate hearing debate pros, cons of human cloning WASHINGTON (CNS) — Panelists at a Senate hearing on human cloning agreed that the federal government should outlaw cloning for reproduction, but they split on the issue of cloning human embryos for research. Supporting a total ban was Jesuit Father Kevin FitzGerald, chairman of Catholic health care ethics at Georgetown University’s Center for Clinical Bioethics. Government regulation of scientific experimentation on humans is nothing new, given “the wrongs done in the name of science,” and is needed to safeguard respect for human life, he said. Other panelists argued that stem-cell experimentation using cloned human embryos held promise for major breakthroughs in curing diseases. The Feb. 5 hearing called by the Judiciary Committee was held as the Senate prepared to debate human cloning. Hungary’s bishops back law granting citizenship to Hungarians abroad WARSAW, Poland (CNS) — Hungary’s bishops’ conference said it supports a law that extends citizenship rights to ethnic Hungarians in neighboring countries. “We know Hungarians living abroad are very satisfied with this law,” Auxiliary Bishop Andras Veres of Eger, secretary-general of the Hungarian bishops’ conference, told Catholic News Service in a telephone interview Feb. 6. “The Catholic Church is an important source of identity for Hungarians everywhere. It’s these people’s views we’re expressing, rather than the church’s,” he said. The bishop spoke amid continued reactions to a January bishops’ conference statement, which said church leaders were “delighted” the law was implemented Jan. 1. Seattle Archdiocese starts project to gather women’s oral history SEATTLE (CNS) — A groundbreaking oral history project launched by the Seattle Archdiocese this year will enable the voices of local Catholic women to speak to future generations. The first goal of the five-year project is to conduct and record interviews with at least 100 women, religious and lay, who have contributed to the growth and development of the
local church. The project is sponsored by the Archdiocesan Women’s Commission and the archdiocesan archives. Its official title is: “Women’s Voices, Women’s Stories: The Catholic Women’s Oral History Project of the Archdiocese of Seattle.” Missouri residents struggle with high levels of lead in community HERCULANEUM, Mo. (CNS) — The 2,800 residents of Herculaneum must make a series of difficult decisions as they cope with efforts to clean up lead contamination in their community, according to the Catholic pastor in town. “It’s not an easy thing,” said Father Robert Fleiter, pastor of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish. The town, about 30 miles south of St. Louis, is home to Doe Run, the largest lead smelter in the country. On Dec. 21 the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ordered Doe Run, which has been in operation for more than 100 years, to accelerate its cleanup of lead-contaminated residential properties in the city. Missouri Gov. Bob Holden and U.S. Rep. Richard Gephardt have asked the EPA to place the city on the Superfund national priority list. Bolivian bishops withdraw from talks between government, coca farmers COCHABAMBA, Bolivia (CNS) — The Bolivian bishops’ conference has pulled out of a dialogue between the government and coca growers because of the farmers’ unwillingness to compromise, said the archbishop of Cochabamba. Archbishop Tito Solari of Cochabamba announced the decision after meeting with the farmers’ lead negotiator, Evo Morales, a former congressman who demanded the government’s commitment to stop coca eradication as a precondition to keep talking. “Any preconditions to the dialogue must be respectful to the Bolivian law and the fight against drug trafficking,” Archbishop Solari said. Farmers said coca production is a “traditional activity connected to our ancestors,” and should not be controlled by the government. CRS begins housing project for displaced outside Sierra Leone capital FREETOWN, Sierra Leone (CNS) — Catholic Relief Services has begun a
Episcopal February 15, 2002 Volume 11 • Number 22 Publisher: Most Reverend William G. Curlin Editor: Joann S. Keane Associate Editor: Kevin E. Murray Staff Writer: Alesha M. Price Graphic Designer: Tim Faragher Advertising Representative: Cindi Feerick Secretary: Sherill Beason 1123 South Church St., Charlotte, NC 28203 Mail: P.O. Box 37267, Charlotte, NC 28237 Phone: (704) 370-3333 FAX: (704) 370-3382 E-mail: catholicnews@charlottediocese.org The Catholic News & Herald, USPC 007-393, is published by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte, 1123 South Church St., Charlotte, NC 28203, 44 times a year, weekly except for Christmas week and Easter week and every two weeks during June, July and August for $15 per year for enrollees in parishes of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte and $18 per year for all other subscribers. Second-class postage paid at Charlotte NC and other cities. POSTMASTER: Send address corrections to The Catholic News & Herald, P.O. Box 37267, Charlotte, NC 28237.
February 15, 2002
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Bishop William G. Curlin will take part in the following events: March 1 — 7:30 a.m. First Friday Mass St. Patrick, Charlotte March 2 — 11 a.m. Recommitment Mass for permanent deacons St. Gabriel, Charlotte 7 p.m. Confirmation Catholic Hispanic Center, Charlotte March 4 Board meeting St. Mary Seminary, Baltimore, Md. March 5 — 7:30 p.m. Reconciliation service St. Patrick, Charlotte
Conference, from page1 war and peace,” said Ahmad, a professor of political science at Hampton University, Va. One topic addressed by the speakers was the Catholic and Islamic criteria for a “just war.” “It was surprising how similar the teachings are on the just war, and how neither side has really followed them,” said Sharon Hoilett. “Maybe it would cut down on the amount of killing if we both followed the criteria a little closer.” “Respect for human life is one thing that is common between Catholicism and Islam,” noted Ahmad. “President Bush did a wonderful job in asking Americans to make the distinction between a few terrorists and the 1.6 billion Muslims who are peaceful.” “No cause, no past injustice, no religion can condone or justify the acts of people like Osama bin Laden,” added Ahmad. Another conference revelation was the true meaning of “jihad,” believed
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(704) 334-2283. 3 SALISBURY — Sacred Heart Church, 128 N. Fulton St., will be celebrating a charismatic and healing Mass today at 4 p.m. Prayer and worship with prayer teams will be available at 3 p.m., and a potluck dinner will follow the Mass. Father John Putnam, pastor, will be the celebrant. For further information, call Bill Owens at (704) 639-9837. 4 CHARLOTTE — Churches in the Charlotte area will be having their regularly scheduled cancer support group meetings for survivors, family and friends on the following days: St. Gabriel Church, 3016 Providence Rd., tonight and every first Monday at 7 p.m. in the ministry center library and St. Matthew Church, 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy., on March 5 and every first Tuesday at 7 p.m. in the office building conference room. For more
by many to mean “holy war.” “Jihad only means stirring to work very hard for some just cause,” said Ahmad. “If others were exposed to this information, it would change their minds,” said Hoilett. “Thank God the diocese gives us the opportunity to look at the situation from both sides,” said Clint Hunsche. “We have such limited exposure to Islamic perspectives and ideals.” “I really think of the Diocese of Charlotte is taking a leadership role,” said Rosenhauer. “I’m not aware of other conferences of this sort where people are given this opportunity.” The conference was videotaped and will be used as a teaching tool for parishes and schools around the Diocese of Charlotte. Volunteers from each parish were asked to become teachers to “train the trainers,” said Purello. “As American Catholics, we have the opportunity to engage our fellow parishioners in the issues of justice,” said Rosenhauer. The Office of Justice and Peace is one of 35 programs and ministries that
information, call: St. Matthew - Marilyn Borrelli at (704) 542-2283 and St. Gabriel - Eileen Correll at (704) 3625047, Ext. 217. 4 CHARLOTTE — The bereavement support group will meet tonight from 6-7:30 p.m. and every first Monday in the family room at St. Gabriel Church, 3016 Providence Rd. This support group is for anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one. For details, call Ruth Posey, CSS counselor, at (704) 370-3238. 4 CLEMMONS — Holy Family Church, 4820 Kinnamon Rd., will be celebrating a charismatic Mass tonight at 7:30 p.m. The sacrament of reconciliation will be given at 7 p.m., and the laying on of hands will take place after Mass. The next Mass will be celebrated on April 1. For more information, call the church office at (336) 778-0600 or Jim Passero at (336) 998-7503.
February 15, 2002
Diocesan doctor brings comfort to Jamaican children
By Dianne M. A. Riggs Correspondent ASHEVILLE — Dr. John Langlois, M.D., a member of St. Eugene Catholic Church, joined four others on a mission team to the Mustard Seed Communities in the Kingston area of Jamaica. The team’ weeklong visit last fall quickly and pleasingly narrowed for Langlois, who acted as physician for the disabled children served by communities. The four Mustard Seed Communities primarily serve over 200 children with disabilities. Two volunteer American nurses temporarily re-opened the medical clinic at the “Jerusalem” community. Langlois became the first international volunteer doctor to staff the clinic after its reopening. A physician for 18 years, Langlois was shocked by the children’s deformities and would not take pictures of some because he felt he would be violating them. Langlois said nothing could be done for the children’s primary problems, including cerebral palsy, Down’s syndrome, hydrocephalus, seizure disorders, HIV and others. Langlois said it was “down to basic caring” such as tending a rash or ear infection. “You give them what you have,” he said, indicating that just to be touched or smiled at was very important for the children. “(It gives the children) a new touch, feel, experiences, because caregivers, dedicated as they are, are stretched,” Langlois said. Langlois, who graduated from Johns Hopkins University Medical School and did his residency in Charleston, S.C., is currently director of the Division of Family Medicine at MAHEC (Mountain Area Health Education Center.) “I’m a physicianteacher by nature and it is within my nature to want to teach and train,” said Langlois. While in Kingston, he trained the
Knights of Columbus-Council 8684 will host a prayer seminar after the 9 a.m. Mass until noon today at the parish center, 812 Duke St. Light refreshments will be served mid-morning. All women are invited to bring a friend. For reservations, call Sadie McConnell at (336) 851-5585. 3 CHARLOTTE — The St. Maximilian Kolbe Fraternity of the Secular Franciscan Order will be gathering today at 2 p.m. at Our Lady of Consolation Church. Those interested in learning more about the SFO and the Franciscan way of life are invited to attend. For more information please call Skyler Mood, SFO, at (704) 5458133. 3 CHARLOTTE — The Mount St. Mary College choir will be presenting a concert at St. Patrick Cathedral, 1621 Dilworth Rd. East, tonight at 7:30 p.m. This is the choir’s second time traveling to Charlotte under the direction of Andy Rosenfeld. For more information about the free concert of sacred choral literature, call the church office at
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Around the Diopen. They want to see medical personnel of all kinds utilizing the clinic as volunteers. With the clinic open, better care for the children and their staff can be achieved. Mustard Seed was also hoping to serve people living near the communities, particularly the elderly, said Langlois. “They can take good care of volunteers as well. (There is) no way they can do it without a coordinator,” he said. Funding a Jamaican clinic volunteer coordinator was high on Langlois’s priorities upon his return to the States. It would cost only $500 a month to provide a half-time Jamaican
national, he said. Langlois and others were trying to raise the necessary funds through their church and other means. “If the clinic is locked up for a month, where is the equipment? You sort of have to start at ground zero each time.” St. Eugene Church has originated trips to Jamaica previously and has committed itself to two Jamaican mission visits per year. There is one slated for late spring of this year, Langlois said. A priest from India started Mustard Seed communities 17 years ago, said Langlois. The four communities are: Sophie’s Place, housing 25 se-
ers/ Belmont Community Theatre will be performing Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” opening tonight at 8 p.m. in the Haid Theatre, 100 Belmont-Mt. Holly Rd. The play will run Feb. 22, 23 and 28 and March 1 and 2. For tickets and other information, call the theatre at (704) 825-6787. 24 CHARLOTTE — The American Harp Society invites all to St. Vincent de Paul Church, 6828 Old Reid Rd., for a free concert and light refreshments this afternoon at 2 p.m. “Music for Two Harps” will feature the talents of Betsey Sesler and James Pinkerton. For further details, call Betsey Sesler at (704) 332-3400. 24 HENDERSONVILLE — The St. Francis of the Hills Fraternity of the Secular Franciscan Order will meet today from 3-5 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Church, 208 7th Ave. West. Visitors and inquirers are welcome, so for more information, call Helen Gillogly, SFO, at (828) 883-9645. 25 CHARLOTTE — A support group meeting for caregivers of family
and friends suffering from Alzheimer’s/ dementia will be held today and every fourth Monday from 1011:30 a.m. in room E of the ministry center at St. Gabriel Church, 3016 Providence Rd. With advanced notification, activities for the memoryimpaired can be provided. For more information about the support group or the Shining Stars Adult Day Respite Program for the memory-impaired, which meets every Monday and Wednesday at St. Gabriel from 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and every Thursday at Sardis Presbyterian Church from 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m., call Suzanne Bach at (704) 376-4135. 27 GUILFORD COUNTY — The Ancient Order of Hibernians Guilford County Division, the oldest and largest order of Irish Catholic men, is looking for more Irish Catholic men to join them for meetings, educational seminars and social events. Contact Michael Slane at (336) 6659264 for time and location.
Photo by Dianne M. A. Riggs
Dr. John Langlois, M.D., examines two of over 200 disabled children at the Mustard Seed’s “Jerusalem Community” clinic in Spanishtown, just outside of Kingston, Jamaica. staff in recognizing and treating malnutrition, pressure sores, respiratory care and doing stitches. “Providing skills, training, supplies or organizational techniques allow (a mission) to be more efficient and effective with the resources they have. And those things will last long after the visitor has returned to the States,” he said. The St. Eugene volunteers were: Langlois; John Boff, a pharmacist, and his wife, Lisa; Chuck Taft, St. Eugene coordinator of Liturgy and Music Ministry; and Heather Gallagher, a University of North Carolina at Asheville student. Their repertoire of activities was broad: feeding and playing with the children; moving dirt to make a garden; painting fences and gates; sorting medical donations; fixing a computer and television; coordinating a Christmas play; and even cleaning and grooming a horse. “There are opportunities for everyone,” said Langlois. Langlois and the volunteers were hopeful that the clinic would remain February 20 ARDEN — St. Barnabas Church, 109 Crescent Hill Dr., will be having a Lenten soup and substance series entitled “Prayer: Doorway to the Kingdom.” Prayer traditions from the Franciscans, Carmelites, Jesuits and Benedictines will be presented at the 6:30 p.m. sessions held every Wednesday beginning tonight and continuing until March 20. For further information, call Sheryl Peyton at (828) 6846098, Ext. 302 or e-mail stbardre@ bellsouth.net. 20 GREENSBORO — The Greensboro Council of Catholic Women is having its annual mini-Lenten retreat at the Franciscan Center, 233 North Greene St., at the 12:10 p.m. Masses starting this afternoon and continuing Feb. 27 and March 6 and 13 with coffee and refreshments and a luncheon after the last gathering on March 20. Call Janet Law at (336) 288-6022 for more information. 21 BELMONT — The Abbey Play-
March CHARLOTTE — All married couples are invited to participate
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4 The Catholic News & Herald
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February 15, 2002
Asheville Catholic students make wishes come By Joanita M. Nellenbach Correspondent ASHEVILLE — The television show “Touched By an Angel” has nothing on the fifth graders at Asheville Catholic School. Whether granting a wish or working with handicapped children, this class reaches out to help others. They work with mentally and physically handicapped children at Estes Elementary School. A group of six fifth graders (different students each week) go to Estes to help the children learn simple skills and concepts. “We take their hands and help them,” Stephanie Lane said. Recently, they helped the children understand “cold.” “Last time, we made slushies with ice and juice,” Pearce Lebreque said, “but mine couldn’t have liquids so I put ice in her hand.” Last year, the Asheville Catholic class tackled a project that brought joy to a seriously ill child and her family. Linda Lamp, regional director for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central & Western North Carolina, visited the students when they were fourth graders to tell them about her program. “The Make-A-Wish lady came to visit,” Ronnie Hreha said. “She said it cost $5,000 to make a wish come true. She said tons and tons had their wishes come true.” “When she came, she thought the class would maybe raise a couple of hundred dollars to help make a wish come true, but she never thought they would raise that much,” said Pamela Williams, their fifth-grade teacher. The students were eager to raise the money. “They’re a real go-getter group,” said Principal Veronica Berreen, Ph.D. “For about 30 seconds they were like, ‘Can we do this?’ but then they decided they could make it happen. But that’s Pam. She’s so enthusiastic. She had a big parent meeting first to see whether
Photo courtesy of Haynes family and R&D WebWorks.
Skylar Haynes wears a mask to protect her weakened immune system. Make-A-Wish team visits the child to ascertain his or her wish. Skylar, daughter of Roy and Marquette Haynes of Arden, had alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, a hereditary disease that affects about one of every 2,000 live births in the United States. Skylar developed liver disease, which so damaged that organ that she required a liver transplant. She had the surgery in June. Her mother said the transplant corrected the alpha 1 antitrypsin deficiency, but Skylar has since had two surgeries to stop hemorrhaging and four to cut away a flesheating bacteria that keeps invading the incision. She was already on the MakeA-Wish list, and she and her family visited Disney World and Sea World in Orlando, Fla., Nov. 10-15. Make-AWish tries to grant the wish when it is best for the child and his or her family. The fifth-grade class presented its $5,000 check to the foundation on Nov. 21, thus reimbursing the fund for the cost of Skylar’s wish. “It made me feel good,” Paige Borden said, “and besides that it made me feel good that a fifth grader could do something this big.” “Once Skylar’s wish was granted, the BB&T building lit one of its stars
Photo by Joanita M. Nellenbach
Bishop William G. Curlin chats with fifth graders at Asheville Catholic School during a Catholic Schools Week visit. Last year the class raised $5,000 to grant a child’s wish through the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central & Western North Carolina. they would get that support, and they were extremely supportive.” “We started off by having a bowla-thon in the fourth grade in May,” student Kelly Olesiuk said. “In the fifth grade we had a bake sale. We raised most of the money-we had a Mexican fiesta.” The money, Jacob Weidie said, would be for 3-year-old Skylar Haynes: “She made a wish to go to DisneyWorld. When she came to visit, her mom told us how happy she was that we were helping her.” Make-A-Wish has three criteria for granting wishes: the child must be under 18 years of age; must live within the Make-A-Wish chapter area; and a medical professional must certify that the child has a life-threatening illness. Once those conditions are met, a
of light at Christmas in honor of our class,” Elizabeth Keil said “They’re a phenomenal group of kids, that during an extremely difficult year-with our economy and all we’ve been through—they didn’t let that stop them,” Lamp said. “There’s a tremendous lesson in that for all of us: that you can’t give up.” “We think they’re angels,” Marquette Haynes said. “They were incredible. We’ve heard from them several times since. At Christmas, they sent cards.” The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central & Western North Carolina includes 51 counties that encompass the Diocese of Charlotte. A chapter of the national Make-A-Wish Foundation, the Western North Carolina chapter has it headquarters in Char-
February 15, 2002
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The Redeemed bring “New Life” to Christian By Mary Marshall Correspondent CHARLOTTE — Candlelight, table linens, fresh flowers, a tempting variety of desserts and drinks — the stage is set for an evening of Christian entertainment at the St. Matthew Church Christian Coffeehouse. The Redeemed, an 11-member Christian contemporary band, entertained over 80 people gathered for an evening of gospel sounds and a Christian message with socializing, food and drink at the Christian Coffeehouse Jan. 20. Attendees included singles, couples and families, predominately from St. Matthew Church. “This is our first experience at the Christian Coffeehouse,” said Kelly Ferkol. “We love the choir. This gives the kids good role models. It’s another way to celebrate together.” Kelly, her husband Andrew and children Drew, 10, and Lindsey, 6, participated in the songs. Kelly and Andrew’s son Luke, 3, was in the babysitting service, which was offered at the Coffeehouse for the first time this evening. The Redeemed members are:
Kathy Bartlett, lead singer and guitarist; David Shoff, band director at Charlotte Catholic High School, who plays the keyboard and sings; Andy Geppert, bass; Keith Sumerel, drummer; and vocalists Mark Adkins, Montressa Barbee, Aliceann Coon, Monte Coon, Cindy Geppert, Patty Heon, and Lori Sumerel. Bartlett, director of music ministry at St. Matthew, often received feedback from parishioners on how much her choir’s praise and worship has touched people. But with the constraints of Mass from a liturgical standpoint, there was little time or room for expansion. “I wanted to provide a forum for individuals who are touched by music to get a little closer to Jesus Christ,” said Bartlett. “We bring you closer to Jesus Christ by bringing Jesus Christ closer to you through spiritual song.” The format was simple for the evening’s theme, “New Life, New Birth through Baptism,” setting the tone for the many songs and the guest speaker, Father Duc Duong, parochial vicar at St. Matthew Church.
Photos by Mary Marshall
The Redeemed, an 11-member Christian contemporary band, entertained over 80 people gathered for an evening of gospel sounds and a Christian message at St. Matthew’s Christian Coffeehouse Jan. 20. Father Duong presented an insight into the new life theme. “We receive many graces from God through baptism,” he said. “One of these is the forgiveness of sin. We are all born in sinfulness, receiving a new life from God through baptism. At that time, we are born in Jesus Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit. Through baptism, we promise to live as God’s children. God is willing to forgive our sins if we humble ourselves, recognize our sins, and ask for forgiveness.” “Baptism gives us the gift of a new
birth, a new life to know the Father and the Son,” read Bartlett from a catechism. As the music resumed, Father Duong joined Bartlett and the band singing, “Our God is an Awesome God.” Adding hand gestures, people responded wholeheartedly, swaying to the music. Other songs such as “Shout to the Lord,” “Trading my Sorrows,” “Creating Me,” “If Today,” and “Let Me See Your Face,” all related to the new life theme. Janet and Randy Ligon liked the fact that the entire family can attend. “It’s very spiritual,” said Janet. “We enjoy the music and active participation.” “My wife and I come regularly,” said Nick Russo. “We enjoy the modern music and the energy generated by the music people and those gathered here.” “We’ve found that music moves people, touching the heart and soul sometimes more deeply than words,” said Bartlett. “It’s been said that spiritual music is praying twice. We hear from so many people how much this has touched their lives. For us, it has been a tremendous spiritual growth.” The Redeemers is a non-profit ministry that constantly searches for sponsors. They market through The Catholic News & Herald, the Charlotte Observer and bulletins throughout the diocese. Over the past two years, people have come from parishes in Gastonia, Mooresville, Asheville and York, S.C. Ministries within the parish
6 The Catholic News & Herald Book Review
Revised book offers deeper insight into World
Reviewed by John H. Carroll Catholic News Service More than 60 years after the Japanese surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, it is fitting that an updated version of a great American history of World War II is now available in bookstores. Donald L. Miller, a professor of history at Lafayette College in Pennsylvania, has written a revised and expanded adaptation of “The Story of the Second World War” by the American scholar Henry Steele Commager. This work originally was published in 1945. Commager had served as a U.S. War Department historian during the war. He based much of his work on published official records, news coverage and the public speeches of national leaders. At the time, of course, much of the information about military plans, strategies and campaigns still was classified. Miller, on the other hand, received his early inspiration about the war from childhood contacts with his father, a veteran of the great struggle, who was active in the Catholic War Veterans in Pennsylvania. Now as a historian, Miller has had access to declassified official military reports, biographies on and memoirs of wartime leaders, and numerous personal stories of veterans who fought on the land and sea and in the air. In the preface, Miller says that Commager’s “assertive and dramatic style turns parts of the book into a prose hymn to the Allied war effort.” With the benefit of 60 years of hindsight and the massive amount of documentation now available for research, Miller’s revision and expansion of Commager’s original work certainly has fulfilled what Miller described “as a modest effort to update an unjustly forgotten work.” Miller actually employs a novel technique to cover the war, from Nazi successes in September 1939 to the Japanese surrender in August 1945. He recounts developments in each major campaign
February 15, 2002
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within the varied theaters of operations chronologically and examines their relationship with the overall conduct of the war. World War II truly was a world war. Miller points that out clearly. Naval engagements, island-hopping invasions and air raids against Japan were going on in the Pacific simultaneously with the capture of Rome, D-Day and the aerial offensive over Germany in Europe. Miller opens each chapter with an exposition of the military strategy involved in the operation or campaign. Then he goes on to look at developments from the point of view of the men actually involved in the action. Now, more than 50 years after the end of the war, readers obtain insights into what it was like. Many of these “war stories” are revealed for the first time. The reactions of flyers over enemy territory may have varied from those of sailors on a carrier, Marines on a coral reef or GIs in forest foxholes. It was a grim business. Miller captures the atmosphere well in his presentations (take it from your reviewer, who spent some time on the line on the fringes of the Huertgen Forest and the Ardennes in the autumn of 1944). The author expresses his thanks to Stephen E. Ambrose and other staff members at the Eisenhower Center in New Orleans for their assistance in providing information from the collection there of written memoirs and letters and oral histories of World War II veterans. Miller also has provided clear and helpful bibliographical notes. This book is a fitting tribute to the veterans of an earlier national struggle in a period of uncertainty comparable in many ways to our own present situation. Carroll is a World War II veteran and retired civil servant living in Silver Spring, Md.
Word to Life
Sunday Scripture Readings: Feb. 17, 2002 Cycle A Readings: February 17, First Sunday of Lent 1) Genesis 2:7-9; 3:1-7 Psalm 51:3-6a, 12-14, 17 2) Romans 5:12-19 3) Gospel: Matthew 4:1-11
By JEAN DENTON Catholic News Service My husband, Tommy, was trained and experienced as a journalist, but many years ago he had a brief foray into the “other side” of the political arena on the administrative staff of an elected public official. He soon learned that he didn’t have the stomach for — and refused to adopt — some of the attitudes and practices required in that line of work. So it wasn’t a disappointment when he was “let go,” although it was still a blow to his ego. The timing added pressure, as we had two preschoolers, and the birth of our third child was a week away. However, the job possibilities were intriguing. He interviewed with several large corporations for public relations positions — which he’d never been interested in, but were tempting because they carried high salaries we’d never dreamed of before, which was exciting. Then he got an offer to work on a newspaper editorial writing staff — a job he’d always wanted. But the temptation of those higher salaries caused hesitation. The salary being offered definitely was back down out of the stratosphere. I was also wishing to move to a more
exotic location than where this job would take us. By God’s grace, though, I shared my misgivings with my cousin instead of Tommy. My cousin, an accountant, gently spoke today’s Gospel to me when he said: “You know this is the kind of work Tommy loves and will be happy with — it’s what he was meant to do. Besides that, when a person gets into those high-dollar positions, even if it is a job you don’t like, it’s hard to pull out of it. It’s a trap.” Not on bread alone. Thankfully, Tommy took the newspaper job, and the rest is history. He resisted the temptation of wealth and immediate gratification to follow a deeper call. Twenty years later he’s still an editorial writer — and thriving in a place that has allowed him to spend his career working for justice. The family has thrived, as well. The experience gave me a lifelong lesson in how the temptation of worldly desires can block one’s way to the life God has prepared for us, and how that life is so much more than we, with our flawed and sinful view, could ever want. QUESTION: What are some specific temptations that draw you toward immediate gratification and away from God? SCRIPTURE TO ILLUSTRATE: “At that the devil left him, and angels came and waited on him” (Matthew 4:11).
Weekly Scripture Scripture for the week of Feb. 17 - Feb. 23 Sunday (First Sunday of Lent), Genesis 2:7-9; 3:1-7, Roman 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11; Monday (Lenten Weekday), Leviticus 19:1-2, 11-18, Matthew 25:3146; Tuesday (Lenten Weekday), Isaiah 55:10-11, Matthew 6:7-15; Wednesday (Lenten Weekday), Jonah 3:1-10, Luke 11:29-32; Thursday (Lenten Weekday), Esther C:12, 14-16, 23-25 or 4:17 (Esther’s prayer), Matthew 7:7-12; Friday (Chair of Peter), 1 Peter 5:1-4, Matthew 16:13-19; Saturday (Lenten Weekday), Deuteronomy 26:16-19, Matthew 5:43-48 Scripture for the week of Feb. 24 - March 2 Sunday (Second Sunday of Lent), Genesis 12:1-4, 2 Timothy 1:8-10, Matthew 17:1-9; Monday (Lenten Weekday), Daniel 9:4-10, Luke 6:36-38; Tuesday (Lenten Weekday), Isaiah 1:10, 16-20, Matthew 23:1-12; Wednesday (Lenten Weekday), Jeremiah 18:18-20, Matthew 20:17-28; Thursday (Lenten Weekday), Jeremiah 17:5-10, Luke 16:19-31; Friday (Lenten Weekday), Genesis 37:34, 12-13, 17-28, Matthew 21:33-43, 45-46; Saturday (Lenten Weekday), Micah
February 15, 2002
Moviev Capsules By Catholic News Service NEW YORK (CNS) — Following are capsule reviews of movies recently reviewed by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Office for Film and Broadcasting. “Big Fat Liar” (Universal) Lame comedy in which a grade school boy (Frankie Muniz) writes a school essay that ends up in the hands of a egomaniacal Hollywood producer (Paul Giamatti) who refuses to admit he stole it until he is forced to do so. Director Shawn Levy’s unfunny fantasy about a teen-ager getting revenge ends up mocking truth instead of championing it, while the plodding story line, caricatured characters and mean-spirited escapades become increasingly disagreeable. A few crude expressions. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification is A-II — adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG — parental guidance suggested. “Collateral Damage” (Warner Bros.) Over-the-top action movie in which an L.A. firefighter (Arnold Schwarzenegger) whose wife and son were killed by a terrorist bomb single-handedly takes on the terrorists in the Colombian jungles before rushing back to Washington to
Entertainprevent a further terrorist attack. As directed by Andrew Davis, characterization and a credible plot are all but abandoned in depicting an indestructible hero whose pursuit of personal vengeance is tempered by the need to destroy murderous terrorists. Frequent violence, ethnic stereotyping, some profanity and a few instances of rough language. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification is A-IV — adults with reservations. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R — restricted. “Hart’s War” (MGM) Contrived drama set in a World War II German prisoner-of-war camp in which a young American lieutenant (Colin Farrell) is forced to defend an African-American pilot (Terrence Howard) falsely accused of murder while their colonel (Bruce Willis) uses the distraction to plan a daring escape. Well-intentioned lessons about racism in director Gregory Hoblit’s film can’t compensate for narrative inconsistencies and one-dimensional characterizations. Some strong war violence including grisly images, fleeting nudity and sporadic rough language with profanity. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification is A-III — adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R — restricted. “How To Kill Your Neighbor’s
Dog” (Artistic License) Flat comedy about a chain-smoking L.A. playwright (Kenneth Branagh) who’s had a recent string of flops but finds comfort and inspiration from an 8-year-old neighbor (Suzi Hofrichter) with a disability. Writer-director Michael Kalesniko’s mildly entertaining film has some witty dialogue, but the sluggish pace and the soft writing outweigh it. An implied sexual encounter, recurring rough language and a few cutting remarks mocking Christianity. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification is A-III — adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R — restricted. “Last Orders” (Sony Classics) Slow-moving drama in which a group of old friends (including Bob Hoskins, David Hemmings and Ray Winstone) get together to honor the last wishes of their close friend (Michael Caine) who wanted them to spread his ashes across the sea. As directed by Fred Schepisi, the sentimental script has many flaws but the superb ensemble cast picks up the slack, giving the deliberately paced film about death, painful memories and new beginnings some vitality. A few sexual encounters, an extramarital affair, brief nudity and sporadic rough language with profanity. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification is A-III — adults. The Motion Picture Association
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of America rating is R — restricted. “Rollerball” (MGM) Mindless remake set in 2018 in which the popular player (Chris Klein) of a brutal blood sport, which combines roller derby, motorcycle racing and hockey, discovers that the team’s owner (Jean Reno) is behind the serious oncourt accidents aimed at increasing TV viewership. Sci-fi action flick is relentlessly repetitive with an absurd plot that director John McTiernan doesn’t even bother to develop, concentrating instead on the violent extreme-sports antics and lavish, bizarre costuming. Intermittent violence, an implied sexual encounter, fleeting drug abuse and recurring profanity and crass language. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops classification is A-IV — adults, with reservations. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R — restricted. “Scotland PA” (Lot 47) Clever yet flawed update to the Bard’s “Macbeth” in which a scheming husband-
8 The Catholic News & Herald
February 15, 2002
Editorials & Col-
The Pope Speaks
POPE JOHN PAUL II
Lent 2002: Is it a quick-fix? Lent is here again, and it opens up with temptations again and I was wondering if there is a connection between Jesus’ temptations and our own personal temptations. In fact, the situation in the Gospel seems to be uncommon to us. The stage is the desert, we don’t seem to be desert-dwellers, probably desert does not appeal to us. Secondly, Jesus fasts for 40 days (only bread and water). Our fast is so mitigated that we can hardly notice. Thirdly, Jesus is tempted: are we tempted to command stones to turn into bread? If the Rocky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains were turned into bread, we would be in trouble with EPA, but we would have all the hungry people living in the world been fed. Are we tempted to jump off a tall building and expect God to provide a few low flying angels to serve as parachutes and take us gently to the ground? Such an attitude would be suicidal, that not even the most fearless bungee-jumper would attempt. Are we ever tempted to accept ownership of all the kingdoms of the world in exchange for worshiping the devil? Sorry, Satan, you’ve got to be kidding. Most of the today’s kingdoms have more problems, money management and what not....who wants them. Keep it. Thank you. Going back to the original question: Is there a common denominator underlying all three temptations and what is really important for us? Yes, there is. I see very clearly the Temptations as a quick-fix. Jesus could have done everything in a split second or less, he did not. As we go through the season of Lent, let us be aware of the Temptations of the quick-fix. We live in a world that prizes fast relief, instant care, immediate gratification, quick results. Why not do Lent in 40 hours rather than 40 days? Well, it takes time to evaluate or re-evaluate our situation at home, at work, to refocus our values, to make U turns without burning the tires. By reading the temptations of Jesus, the soccer game comes to mind. Jesus won the game, because he was following a life principle, which is defined as
Coming of Age Amy Welborn CNS Columnist
just isn’t respectful. If you think about it honestly, you would probably not appreciate it either, if the roles were reversed. Second, to bug a person and try to “get him (her) to like me” isn’t loving at any level. How do we know this? By looking at our model for loving: God. God does a lot of things to show how much he loves us, but the one thing he doesn’t do is force himself on us. He doesn’t try to manipulate us. He’s not sneaky. He doesn’t try to shove us in one direction when we’re going in another. It’s just not the way he works. He offers us his love continually. He shows us in innumerable ways how much he loves us. But he always leaves us free to accept or reject him too. Anything short of that wouldn’t be real love, because a fundamental part of love involves respect for the other person’s freedom. Even when it hurts. And God knows, it can hurt. It’s true: God knows.
Guest Column FATHER JOHN AURILIA, OFM Cap Guest Columnist a basic commitment that runs through life no matter what, just like the theme in a piece of music. The principle was: God first. Satan offered our Lord 3 options for his life principle. Pleasure “Command these stones to turn into bread,” Jesus 1 – Devil 0. Popularity “Throw yourself down.” Jesus 2 — Devil 0. Power “All these kingdoms will be yours.” Penalty kick — Jesus 3 — Devil 0. The devil quotes the Bible correctly, but not in its entirety (that’s the trick), Jesus quotes the bible too in its entirety. So, by quoting the Bible you can prove anything. Something similar happened to Professor Hiram Corson. The freshmen at Cornell University decided that they were going to tackle Prof. H. Corson, who was a brilliant scholar, but who was also quite a character on the campus. When he needed to reflect, he would reach over and get his long black cape and stride about the campus plunged into the deepest thoughts. Some students, because of his beard, compared him to prophet Micah or Jeremiah and no one dared come near him. Well, these two fool hardy-freshmen, in their youthful conceit, decided to put Professor Corson in his place and blocked his path one morning. The first freshman bowed very low and said “Good morning, Father Abraham.” The second freshman bowed low and said, “Good Unrequited love If all the love that abounded around you on Valentine’s Day drove you crazy, don’t worry. The rest of your life it will drive you crazy too, in one form or another, for love is mysterious, elusive and paradoxical. And it’s especially nerve-racking if it’s not returned, isn’t it? Unrequited love is one of the great themes of literature, music and art. There’s nothing that can bring out high drama more than a burning, yearning heart. Unfortunately, it’s not so entertaining when it’s happening to you. Caring in a certain way about someone who doesn’t seem to feel the same way is a constant, painful theme of teen life. It starts way before you hit adolescence, when you start sending little notes asking: “Do you like me? Check one: A. Yes, B. No, C. Sorta, D. Kinda.” You may get a little more sophisticated through the years, but the purpose is the same: Find out if someone “likes” you, and if the person doesn’t, try to change his or her mind. I’m here to tell you: Don’t. Sure, it looks cute and fun in the movies and television: Guy and girl meet in a cute, funny and maybe even disastrous way. Girl hates guy, thinks he’s a dweeb. Guy spends the rest of the movie convincing the girl otherwise, sometimes making a fool of himself, but coming through in a probably heroic way at the end, letting girl see who he really is. True love and eternal happiness ensue. News flash: Life is not like that. Yes, relationships can grow out of an initial negative impression or even dislike, but if someone knows you and is not interested in anything more than friendship, you really, really need to respect that and, to put it bluntly, leave that person alone. Sure, it’s hard, and breaking hearts hurt badly, but if you’ve been told, “You’re nice, but ...,” leave it at that. Why? Well, to try to force your affections on someone
February 15, 2002
Editorials & Col-
Light One Candle MSGR. JIM LISANTE Guest Columnist Rectory living One of the last mysteries of life in the Church may concern the place priests live, the rectory. Unfortunately, because of the diminishing number of priests, many live alone. But in the popular imagination, we’re still perceived like Bing Crosby’s Father O’Malley in the classic film “Going My Way,” where several priests share their living space. In fact, that’s what my rectory is still like. We are three priests, each with his own living room, bedroom and bathroom. We share a common kitchen, dining room and communal living room. On the first floor of the rectory are our parish offices. Each priest has an office for counseling, planning weddings with engaged couples and just meeting people to talk. Also sharing space with us at the rectory from nine to five are the parish secretary and receptionist. These are the front line people who field the calls that come in, provide information, make sure the weekly bulletin is published and handle our parish website (www.stthomasapostle.org). More and more people join the parish or seek help online. It’s a whole new approach, and opens our parish to a world of visitors. Down one corridor is the bookkeeper’s office. She works with a top-notch finance committee made up of parish laypeople who work in the financial field. It’s amazing to think that pastors once made money decisions alone. What a blessing it is to have people who understand financial planning as principal collaborators. of the world and in cultures who have never even heard of God as we know him or of Jesus Christ. Is explicit, conscious, formal knowledge of Christ and faith in him necessary for salvation? Or may that faith be somehow implicit, hidden in the pursuit of goodness and holiness manifested in lives of “unbelievers”? In other words, can people be saved who faithfully try to live good lives but who honestly, for whatever reason, never have seen the embrace of Christ or the church as a personal religious obligation? The church’s answer is yes; and we believe they are saved by Jesus Christ through the presence and activity of the Holy Spirit. This Catholic position can be found in many places. The Catechism of the Catholic Church, for example, quoting the Vatican II Constitution on the Church, says, “Those who, through no fault of their own, do not know the Gospel of Christ or his church, but who nevertheless seek God with a sincere heart and, moved by his grace, try in their actions to do his will as they know it through the dictates of their conscience — those too may achieve eternal salvation” (No. 847). No one has been more insistent and consistent on this theme than Pope John Paul II. He writes in his book “Crossing the Threshold of Hope”: “God the creator wants to save all humankind in Jesus Christ.” He redeemed them all “and has his own ways of reaching them” (pp. 80-83). In one of his general audiences he said, “Normally it will be in the sincere practice of what is good in their own religious traditions and by following the dictates of their own conscience that the members of other religions respond positively to God’s invitation and receive salvation in Jesus Christ, even if they do not recognize or acknowledge him as their savior” (Sept. 9, 1998). Countless other Catholic documents and teachings say the same, but you get the idea. No one is saved apart from the grace of Christ. But his saving desire and plan is not as narrow and exclusive as many of us think.
In the basement are meeting rooms for every kind of group and organization. On different nights, you’ll find the parish liturgy committee, the pastoral council or the local AA group using that space. Just down the hall is the Parish Social Services ministry. There, folks who are having a tough time can find practical and material help. We provide food, clothing, diapers or even a month’s rent, depending on the need. That’s the basic layout. But let me talk about living there. Rectories are much like any home. Priests eat, talk and socialize together. In one of my earlier jobs, I had to travel to a different parish each weekend. I’d usually stay over on a Saturday night. Joining my brother priests for dinner was always revealing. In some places, conversation and laughter would flow and the meal would go on and on, making it like any enjoyable family supper. In other rectories, you sensed that the guys couldn’t wait to finish eating. Depending on the group dynamics and individual personalities, you could feel the tension. Dinner would be over in a half hour or less, each priest quickly returning to his private quarters to watch television alone. Those rectories were sad to visit. When I became a pastor myself, I remembered those unhappy visits and promised myself that I’d try to create a happy home for the priests I was assigned to live with. How? Well, it’s not unlike any family home. First, there needs to be collaboration. No one member of the house has all the answers, so we need to be open to others and their ideas. Second, we are all different. We see truth in personal ways, but every point of view is worthy of respect and a fair hearing. People who are not listened to tend to become hurt and embittered. Third, it’s important to have fun together. The guys in our home do more than just work together; we make time to go out as a group. It may just be to a movie or a dinner, but it’s a sign that we enjoy relaxing as well as working together. Fourth, individual TV-watching can make a very solitary existence. We have a TV and VCR in our communal living room and watch occasional programs together. Finally, it’s always important to pray together. It may be something as short as grace at meals, but it reminds us that everything we have is the Lord’s.
Question Corner FATHER JOHN DIETZEN CNS Columnist
Is there salvation for those who do not believe in Jesus? Q. This is about your column some weeks ago concerning the spiritual condition of the Sept. 11 terrorists, and the possibility that they may be saved and go to heaven. I must not understand correctly many verses in the Scripture that say anyone who does not believe in Jesus Christ as savior will be condemned. John (3:36) says, “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life.” Please tell me where, in your opinion, I’m wrong in my interpretation. (Maryland) A. First of all, the response I gave was not simply my opinion. From the references and quotes I offered, including from the Catechism of the Catholic Church, it is clear that what I said about the possibility of salvation, even for people who do not explicitly believe in Jesus Christ, is the teaching of the Catholic Church. Scripture makes absolutely clear that Jesus is the one and only savior of the world. All efforts by human beings anywhere, anytime, to do good and avoid evil, to reverence and serve the supreme Lord of the world under whatever name God may be known, are the work and inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and are made possible through the redemptive merits of Jesus Christ. This is and always has been Catholic doctrine; it has never changed. What has changed over the past several hundred years is the church’s understanding of how that grace of salvation comes to individuals, especially in parts
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Family Reflections ANDREW & TERRI LYKE Guest Columnists Learning to trust in God’s will Matthew 5:3-11, the Beatitudes, reveal to us the language of God and offer us the keys to God’s kingdom. They are probably the most read and discussed verses of the bible in our family. Our 16-year-old son, Marty gave a talk at his teen groups retreat a few weeks ago. His presentation was on “Thy will be done.” It was a reflection on the Beatitudes that revealed both his understanding of the scripture’s profundity and his application of it in his life. He talked about how the Beatitudes are God’s will, but go directly against human instincts. If we only aspired to our own human instincts—our will—we can’t do God’s will. He gave a couple of examples that opened the Word to his listeners. When a person who can’t swim is in water over his head, the natural instinct is to reach for the surface-to raise the hands above the head and grasp desperately for air. Yet, the only way to get one’s head above the water is to put the hands down. It’s against human instinct, yet it’s the way to survive. The other example was the common experience of every person whoever learned to ski. The idea of putting one’s weight on the downhill ski for someone who is afraid of falling is also against human instinct. Yet, to do otherwise guarantees a tumble in the powder. To ski we must listen to and trust the wisdom of our instructor and do the very thing that doesn’t make sense. Both examples expressed the need to do the opposite of our human will. However, once we learn the skills our instincts change. What didn’t make sense before we begin to understand. What we couldn’t see before we can see. That’s how we do God’s will. And we can become good at it. Wisdom for all ages. We think he’s got the right idea. Huh? Questions for Reflection: • When have you gone against conventional wisdom to do God’s will? • When have the teachings of the Church and scripture not made sense to you? • Did you aspire only to human wisdom? Divine wisdom? • Read Matthew 5:1-12. Do you hear the language of God speaking to you? Send your family stories to: Family Reflections P.O. Box 652 Matteson, IL 60443-0652 Or email them to Family.Reflections@ Lyke2Lyke.com
1 0 The Catholic News & Herald said Sandy Murdock, founder of Kabaka. “For those who attended, it is important for them to learn the diversity that is present within each group. In order for people to become better Christians, they need to know as much as they can about diversity” During his homily, Father West stressed the importance of Black History Month observances for all people. “...We gather during Black History Month to recognize and celebrate the richness of the experiences and traditions of people of African descent. Remembering our history, we clearly see that we are blessed, that we are a great people,” he said. “We acknowledge with great affection those who have gone before us strong in faith — our fathers and mothers who kept alive an unwavering commitment to Christ and his church throughout the bit-
Harambee Masses celebrate faith and ter days of slavery and the troubled times of racial segregation... .” The congregation ended the Mass by joining hands with the choir and singing, “As you go, tell the world about Jesus... and his love.” This was the second year of the Mass, which brought people of various cultures and backgrounds together in faith. Contact Staff Writer Alesha M. Price by calling (704) 370-3354 or e-mail amprice@charlottediocese.org.
board, mop and other everyday items. During announcements, a Black history fact is being read, and the students can see several displays of African and African-American artifacts, books and decorations in the school’s main hall. Along with a storyteller presentation, students are doing class projects and playing educational games with African-American themes, and the school is planning to conduct field trips during the month. “It is important for the children to learn people’s backgrounds and to know our heritage which isn’t found in the history books,” said Verdun. “We wanted to help the kids get a sense of Black History Month and to know that there are black people who have contributed to society.” Dancing to the beat of a different drummer The sound of drums reverberated throughout the old church, while dancers covered in blues and blacks spun around in front of the altar in celebra-
Photo by Aleshia M. Price
ClassiEMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Caregiver: Seeking dependable caregiver to assist elderly with non-medical care in their homes. Parttime and full-time. Top hourly fees. VISITING ANGELS (704) 442-8881. Director of Faith Formation: Growing parish of 1,200 families seeks enthusiastic and knowledgeable Catholic as full time Faith Formation Director. Minimum of B. A. in related field of study and Parish/Faith Formation experience. Position requires strong leadership, organizational, interpersonal, and basic computer skills. Responsibilities include, but not limited to: Pre-K through 5th Grade Faith Formation, R.C.I.A., and Adult Education. Salary and benefits commensurate with experience. Start July 1, 2002. Send resume, salary expectations, and three (3) references to: DFF Search, Attn: Wally Haarsgaard, Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, 605 Barbee Ave., High Point, NC, 27262. Visit our website at www.ihmchurch.org. Elementary Principal: The Archdiocese of Atlanta anticipates openings for the position of elementary school principal effective July 1, 2002. Qualified candidates may send a letter of interest and current resume to: Superintendent of Schools, 680 W. Peachtree St., NW, Atlanta, GA 30308. Sales Position: Church Goods and Religious Supply Company looking for representative to
February 15, 2002
Around the Di-
establish contacts with Parishes in the N.C area. Fax Resume: 212-813-2160 Teachers: Our Lady of Mercy Catholic High School, located in Fairburn, Georgia, is seeking teachers in all disciplines for the 2002-2003 school year. Mercy offers an excellent teaching environment and well as competitive salary and benefits. Interested individuals should send resume and cover letter to: John Cobis, Our Lady of Mercy High School, 861 Highway 279, Fairburn, GA 30213. Work from Home: Growing business needs help! Mail-order/E-commerce. $522+ per week parttime. $1,000-$4,000 per week full-time. www. changeyourfuture4ever.com (888) 207-9771 FOR SALE Cemetery Plots: 3 in prime section 12A at Forsyth Memorial, Winston-Salem. Value $6,600, special asking price of $3,300 for all 3. (704) 375-6237. WIN THE RAFFLE! Our Lady of Grace School: Greensboro. $10,000 - 1st Prize. $1,000 - 2nd Prize. $500 - 3rd Prize. Drawing March 9, 2002. Need not be present to win. Cost - $100 per ticket. Visa, Mastercard accepted. Only 350 tickets will be sold. Call Laurie Benko (336) 294-0520.
Classified ads bring results! Over 116,000 readers! Over 48,000 homes! Rates: $.50/word per issue ($10 minimum per issue) Deadline: 12 noon Wednesday, 9 days before publication How to order: Ads may be E-mailed to ckfeerick@charlottediocese.org, faxed to (704) 370-3382 or mailed to: Cindi Feerick, The Catholic News & Herald, 1123 S. Church St., Charlotte, NC 28203.
tion and worship. Following the lead of the Gospel choir, the audience clapped to music not often heard in most parishes around the diocese. Those who attended the Harambee Mass at Belmont Abbey Basilica on Feb. 10 were treated to songs from the OLC Choir with drummers and an opening presentation from the Kabaka Dancers and Drummers of OLC. Several of the Benedictine monks from Belmont Abbey Monastery, Belmont Abbey College students and parishioners from area churches joined Father Mauricio West, vicar general and chancellor, as he celebrated the Mass filled with song and visible praise. Members of Kabaka, including a grandmother and her granddaughter, danced in celebration of Black History Month and in praise of God. “It is important for those who participated to be able to share their culture and heritage with others in order to create a better understanding of our differences,”
See Harambee, next page
February 15, 2002
Harambee, from previous page Americans. Children in celebration Our Lady of Assumption School (OLA) students craned their necks and sat upright as they observed the procession down the aisle. They watched women dressed in colorful costumes dance to the beat of drums and saw women sweeping the aisle before they sprinkled water and burned incense. During the welcome before the start of the Mass held on Feb. 7, Alicia Verdun, one of the OLA Black History Month Committee members, read that the sweeping and water sprinkling symbolized preparing the sanctuary for worship. The incense, she said, carried the their prayers to God. It was the inaugural celebration of the school’s Black History Month observance. Principal Pat Murphy met with Bartina Edwards, Jolynn Mata, Yvette Mills, Cynthia Sims and Verdun to discuss what the school could do to observe Black History Month. Together, the women unearthed ideas that would be educational as well as cultural in their focus. “We’ve always wanted to celebrate Black History Month, and the question is how do you do that effectively,” said Murphy. “This is important because we have a number of families that want Catholic education and want their culture to be recognized and to feel comfortable in the expression of the culture.” Bishop William G. Curlin celebrated the Mass along with Father Gregg Littleton, OLA pastor, and Rev. Mr. Curtiss Todd, vice chancellor and vicar for the African American Affairs Mininstry , who served at the Mass. The bishop expressed the need for this type of celebration. “We are people made up of diverse backgrounds. It is a mosaic, and all of the pieces fit together to create a picture of Jesus,” said the bishop during his homily. “We are people of different shapes, sizes and colors, and Jesus draws us all into one body.” Along with the Mass, which included members from the Perpetual Hope Gospel Choir of Our Lady of Consolation Church (OLC Choir), the children gathered for an assembly entitled “In Touch with History.” The children listened as African-American students read a story about all of the inventions of African-Americans including the clothes dryer, ironing
Around the DiBy ALESHA M. PRICE Staff Writer Harambee is a Kiswahili word meaning “pulling together.” At two events in the diocese, people pulled together ideas and joined in song, worship, culture and fellowship in celebration of Black History Month. Every February since the late 1970s, when the weeklong celebration was expanded to a month, Americans celebrate the contributions and gifts that people of color have given to society. Many families of various backgrounds around the country commemorate the month with programs, forums and other events to recognize the achievements of African-
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1 2 The Catholic News & Herald
Living the
Deacon continues parents’ spiritual By ALESHA M. PRICE Staff Writer MURPHY — Anthony Marini would stand on a footstool over the old, coal stove to cook dinner for his family. As the only child of two working parents, he had to assume many responsibilities at home. Cooking did not seem like a chore to the youngster who excelled at the domestic skill. “I still make a mean spaghetti sauce,” joked Rev. Mr. Marini. Pasta was a staple in the Marini household and was a welcomed end to the hard and long Depression-era days for his father, a construction worker, and his mother, a seamstress and factory worker. “I remember it was a hand-to-mouth existence for a long while, which is why my mother felt like she had to go to work.” Even though his parents worked constantly to make ends meet, their steadfast dedication to faith and the love and support of friends and extended family kept them close. Holidays and celebrations were the times when they could meet with others and share stories of the “old country” and how their dedication to Catholicism made them stronger. “Theirs was a simple faith that wasn’t based on theology but on personal experiences that they leaned on when they were in trouble,” said Rev. Mr. Marini. He modeled himself after his parents’ pious example serving as an altar boy at the neighborhood church, which stood next door to his home. “Church was the center of my religious and social life,” he said. By the time he graduated from high school in 1948, his parents’ dream of his attending college was realized; he was accept-
ed to Jesuit-run Fordham College. Even had died, and we would go to the cemetery though the pressure to become his family’s every other week.” first college graduate was always on his In keeping with his and his famind, he enjoyed his ther’s dreams of higher college years because education, he enrolled of the exposure to phiin graduate school to losophy and theology earn his master’s declasses. gree of business admin“They(the classes) istration in statistics. strengthened my faith While attending night a lot because I knew classes, he worked as what its basis was,” a market analyst for said the math major. Western Electric and A special woman American Can Co. in his life was the other Marini’s faith reason he enjoyed his life was placed on the new world. Marini had back burner while he known Maria for years juggled school, work through family funcand his developing retions and celebrations lationship with Maria. at his home in Brook“I became a weekend lyn. Their parents had Catholic, but I was reemigrated from the ally still close to God.” Rev. Mr. and Mrs. same city in Italy and The couple marAnthony Marini had remained close ried in 1956 after Mariafter arriving in the ni had graduated, and U.S. The young adults they settled in Staten visited one another via Island, where their two the Staten Island Ferry as much as possible. children were born. Marini began working With the wind ruffling her hair while standfor Xerox Corporation in Rochester, N.Y., ing on the pier, Maria would wait patiently in 1965 — a move that he says changed for her new love to arrive. his life. Marini was at the end of his college After the children became involved career with graduation waiting around the in Catholic school and Mrs. Marini began bend when tragedy struck. His father died teaching at their parish school, Marini’s in 1952 — three weeks prior to graduation. faith was rekindled. The couple taught “It was a bittersweet time in my life. Your faith formation and served on the parish life changes because you feel that you have council, and he served as eucharistic minisother obligations,” said Rev. Mr. Marini. “It ter. In 1969, they both made Cursillo, and was very difficult at times because of ItalMarini’s faith life exploded. Two years later, ian customs — the widows wore black for he became the lay director for the Diocese a year. It was a constant reminder that he
February 15, 2002
of Rochester. “We were really involved with bringing Jesus to anyone who would listen.” A transfer to Washington, D.C., doused his spiritual flame for a short while, but reading about the permanent diaconate program kept the embers glowing. After moving back to New York, the couple jumped back into parish life. In 1978, he was accepted into the first diaconate class in the Diocese of Rochester. “Maria attended classes with me for four years, and our spiritual lives grew stronger as we studied and prayed together,” said Rev. Mr. Marini, ordained in 1982. A year later, Rev. Mr. Marini was selected to participate in a company executive leave program, which allowed him to work for a non-profit organization while being kept on payroll. He helped a Hispanic company establish an investment company. “These experiences had a deep effect on my ministry later on.” Being transferred to Florida prompted him to take early retirement in 1987, and he began working full-time as a migrant minister with document translation, sacramental preparation and other ministerial and social work. Mrs. Marini taught English as a second language classes. Summer trips to North Carolina led to a six-month commitment where he began assisting at St. William Church in Murphy and Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Hayesville. The couple moved to Hendersonville in 1998 to help serve the Hispanic communities. Rev. Mr. Marini and his wife split their time between the mountain parishes and Our Lady Star of the Sea Church in Ponte Verde, Fla. “We both had a good foundation in the faith. The diaconate has been like the crowning touch and has enhanced everything we have ever believed,” he said.