Jan 30, 1998

JC

iNEws

Serving Catholics in Western North Carolina in the Diocese of Charlotte

Herald Volume

7

Number 21

Âť

Janaury 30, 1998

2 The Catholic

News

& Herald

January 30, 1998

CSS Program Editor !s Note: The

name of the family in case has been changed to pro-

this

tect their iden-

available

tity.

By MIKE

KROKOS

Editor

CHARLOTTE

Helps Hispanic Brothers And Sisters

Hope") became a full-time ministry of Catholic Social Services last July, one of many CSS ministries funded in part by the annual Diocesan Support Appeal.

Programa Esperanza links Hispanics to

— Last

October, Juana Mora had finally had enough.

With children in tow, she packed their things and left her abusive husband, heading to a relative's home to seek shel-

The move forced 10 people to cram one-bedroom apartment.

With no money, no job, no car, no immigration papers that would allow her to work legally, and little knowledge of

community

resources.

It

also

provides legal assistance for persons

who

could otherwise not afford it and helps with the language barrier many Hispanics face in America, said CSS caseworker David Davis of Programa Esperanza.

With Mora's most pressing need being her ongoing safety,

CSS

staff attor-

ney Richard Feerick accompanied her to civil court and helped Mora obtain a

ter.

long-term restraining order to protect her

into a

and her children. While there, the attorney helped Mora enter a request for child support which was subsequently granted.

Programa Esperanza' s work did not stop there. With employment a major

the English language.

Mora

Programa Esperanza for

turned to

issue, the

help.

Originally established as a United

Way

outreach in 1991, Programa Esperanza (which means "Program of

CSS

was already

make move in,

her to

the necessary arrangements

process of becoming a legal immigrant

to

including getting

on the basis of her husband's papers, she was able to benefit from an exception that applies to a battered spouse," Davis

services connected.

in the

Today, Mora and her family are

The work permit was granted very

Mora

quickly, and caseworkers directed to possible

job openings and helped her

out job applications.

supportive and off

all

According to Davis, Mora's an example of the public assis-

cal bills.

story

is

The months between leaving her husband and obtaining employment pre-

tance system working for someone. "She

sented economic difficulties for Mora.

part of her ordeal

The casework

vive and

eral agencies

staff referred her to sev-

such as the Department of

Social Services and Loaves and Fishes.

Her family was

also placed

on a

list

to

receive Christmas sponsorship, which

meant her children received

during

gifts

the holiday season.

By

late

December, Mora was em-

received enough support during the worst

and was able to surmove toward self-sufficiency," he added. "Her story is an excellent example of how Programa Esperanza can help someone through a difficult time."

Elizabeth Thurbee, CSS executive director, said the program has helped fill a much-needed void. "We saw a gap in services, and this program is something

CSS

ployed. With her wages and the income

we've wanted

from child support payments, she was

area for a long time," she said.

able to get her to

self-

public assistance

except Medicaid, which helps with medi-

the Immigration

and Naturalization Service.

"This is sometimes not possible

also re-

some ba-

sic furniture needs.

explained.

fill

all utility

Mora was

ferred to Crisis Assistance for

Mora get

attorney helped

work certification from

do, but because she

own

for

in the Charlotte

small apartment.

Programa Esperanza caseworkers helped

Seminarian's Journey Involves Faith, Community By

JIMMY ROSTAR

the following advice:

Staff Writer

CHARLOTTE — Every seminarian called to priesthood has a unique story

For Chris Gober, the call to serve sprung from an interest in healing.

to

tell.

"My

initial interest in

college

was

medicine or physical therapy," says the 23-year-old Gober, a student at The Catholic University of America Theological College. His focus changed thanks to the Holy See. While visiting Rome with a group including his pastor, Gober experienced the grandeur of the "Eternal City," met in the field of sports

"Develop a

rela-

tionship with Christ, and the rest will fall into place."

faith to

come down

because

I

celebrating the sacramental life "is the

family. But

most awesome way

was

myself to

God

"Once just

fit

that I could give worship of him." in love with the Mass, it

in

I fell

what I what God was

that (entering senndnary) is

needed

to do, that this is

me to do," he says.

At the advice of priests of the Dio-

calling

cese of Peoria and elsewhere, Gober met

many priests, and began to seriously ponder entering studies for the priesthood.

to pursue: to priest in particular

asked

me

why I wanted to pursue work in healing body when there was so much need work

he says.

That and other encounters in Rome stuck with Gober, and he returned to his hometown of Peoria, 111., "with an infinite-sized hole in my heart that could only be filled by God." He turned to his parish priest for direction, and received in healing the soul,"

Imagine...^^

go

where the growing and was re-

to a place

church was really ally in need of priests," he says.

with prayer, studying, class work, and, when there is time,

calling

I felt

me

that

to

God

do just

While Gober

clearly" than ever to

left his

Dber

lina.

ing there are people out there

He

is

currently one of 29 seminar-

ians studying for the priesthood in the

A

summer assignment

last

to

Father Eric Houseknecht,

the

diocesan vocation director, agrees that a connection to

community

and the tribunal provided Gober the chance to meet "very supportive people" in town and throughout the diocese, which he says led to an important sense of community. "It has meant so much to be supported by the people of God here and by my brother seminarians," he adds.

As Gober nears his diaconate ordi-

to be-

gin studies for the priesthood in the Dio-

cese of Charlotte. decision, he adds, wasn't made and without conviction. "For me,

The

^

nation in April 1999, he

^

fills

his days

See Seminarian, page 12

Readings for the week of February 1-7, 1998 Sunday Jeremiah 1:4-5,17-19 1

Corinthians 12:31—13:13

Luke 4:21-30

Monday Hebrews 2:14-18 Luke 2:22-40

4410-F Monroe Rd. NC 28205 (704) 342-2878

Tuesday 2 Samuel 18:9-10,14,24-25,30—19:3 Mark 5:21-43

Wednesday 2 Samuel 24:2,9-17

Celebrating 16 years of serviTig the Carolinas

Mark 6: 1-6 1

music of the on organ or electronic keyboard by the

amazing at the

touch of a button.

Call today for a demonstration.

Music

care

Malachi 3:1-4

Charlotte,

selection of

"Know-

who

one of the things I appreciated most as a seminarian," he says. "The sacred-

is

\ special service or gathering.

Your

a seminarian will serve

in is vital during his formation.

Music beautifully played at every Mass,

Catholic faith played

other

people better."

year in

Charlotte at the diocesan media center

lightly

more "come

know myself and

family behind in August 1996 to begin studies at Catholic University, he says he felt embraced by another kind of community, one including more than 100,000 Catholics living in western North Caro-

vocations" because of his "total love for

young man

basketball, golf

"sees the opportunity

that."

Curlin,

Jesus," convinced the

some

and reading. With the continued support and prayers of the people in the Diocese of Charlotte, Gober adds that he

here,

was leaving my

diocese.

Gober' s meetings with Bishop whom Gober calls "a magnet to

the to

really took a total trust in

God," Gober says. "It really was the ultimate test in

Gober began attending daily Mass, and over time realized that living and

with Bishop William G. Curlin in Charlotte. "I was talking with different people and giving them ideas of what I wanted

"One

it

8^

Electronics

Corner Oak

& Broad Streets

Nooresville, nC (704) 663-7007 (800) 331-0768

Thursday Kings 2:1-4,10-12

pm Satxirday — 9:30 ain-3 pm

Mon.-Fri.— 9:30am-5:30

Books

& gift items

Special/Mail Orders

Welcome

Mark 6:7-13 Friday Sirach 47:2-11 Mark 6: 14-29

1

Saturday Kings 3:4-13

Mark 6:30-34

"

The Catholic News

January 30, 1998

& Herald 3

Bishop Says DSA Is Love Is Caring, Love Is You Challenge To Serve Others Love

In Action

By JO ANN

KEANE

and serve those

We

brother's keeper.

—

We

are our are stewards of the

faith.

In this vibrant, growing diocese those words exude pride, underscore continuing faith for which the diocese

counts

blessings, and etch

its

in need.

Love

in

Action into the very soul of the women and men in this diocese.

It is Love In Action that inspires people to reach out, to serve, to help. Over the next eight weeks. The

new

to

this

DSA begins

newspaper and a

parishes and missions. In subsequent

weeks, parishioners will receive a letter from Bishop Curlin asking for

—

—

the needs of

series

into the

of articles, faces

on the

those

many

hands of

who

those in the diocese. Yet stories

challenge with in-

of these people in need are futile with-

creased goals, the

how the faithful of the diocese respond," says Barbara Rohrman, director of the DSA campaign and associate di-

well

are, this is

how we

is

who we

live."

And in 1998, Love In Action will guide thousands to share their gifts, their need of

—

the diocesan households contribute to the

DSA, and we

vision ?

people of the diocese always respond generously when asked for their donations," says

Rohrman.

"Statistically, nearly half of

see that

number rise every

year."

Every parish and mission contributes by meeting a goal (see page 11) based on its annual offertory. Contributions above and beyond the set goal are returned to the parish. In turn,

if

the parish

or mission falls below the goal, they

still

There are 35

social service, educational,

voice of Christ constantly challenging us

spiritual guidance.

ministries

and

in

multi-cultural and vocational ministries

— supported by

the annual appeal.

All told, $2,760,000 will be raised allowing those ministries to remain true to their missions, to the faith

Last year, the Diocese of Charlotte celebrated a quarter-century of ministry to the people of western North Carolina.

There has been tremendous growth in that time. This year, more funding is earmarked for expanding programs such as campus ministry and seminarian education. What is your vision for the future, and how does the DSA help carry out that

must meet the assigned target.

"The Diocesan Support Appeal is the

treasures, with those yearning for

DSA?

Underlying all social and welfare programs is love of God and neighbor. That is the basis of all our ministries, and it is seen by the recognition and reaching out in loving service to Christ in our neighbor. On Mother Teresa's tomb are inscribed the words, "Love one another has I have loved you." And this is the foundation of both our ministries and this year's DSA theme.

care.

Though each campaign brings a new

good works that result from the generosity of

Aptly, the 1998 Diocesan Support Appeal campaign selected "Love In Action" to speak to the people of God. "Just as these words comfort, they describe so

mean in relation to the role and purpose of the

weekend with video shown in all this

the occasion, placing

diocese.

What does the theme of this year's appeal, "Love In Action,

meet those increasing needs."

The

to

be sensitive to the presence of Jesus people around us," says

young people,

their expressions of sup-

And it's evident from what they're sharing with me that they really want to take an active role in the church. Because of this, I am not fearful port and affection.

of the future. Rather,

aged and is

I

am

very encour-

feel very confident the future

good hands.

in

Many Catholics give to their parish weekly offertory, building funds, special and community agencies.

collections

Why is

it

also important for Catholics to

DSA ?

support the

A parish exists

on the support

cese as one parish family. In the words

of

"Whenever one person

Paul,

St.

fers,

more than 90 parishes and missions in the diocese. My arms have

pastor to the to

embrace

the

all

these communities, and

DSA challenges all Catholics to have

We

the church

that vision of Christ in western

addition,

we

This appeal will not only help them, will help to shape the future of the dioIt

and

is

sisters,

about.

and

this is

are

all

will provide us with

more holy

men who can motivate us in the right way These men of God

to reach out to others.

Remember

the

lives.

Sometimes ioners to see the

DSA

it is

how

difficult for parish-

their contributions to

help them

and others

In Yours.

to that?

The DSA gives us an opportunity to look beyond the needs of our individual parishes.

I

believe in accountability for

See Bishop

Interview, page 8

"A valid Will stands as a continuing expression of our

ment to the Church and the community in which we live."

Bishop Wlliam G. Curlin

ou can express your commitment to your Church by making a bequest to the Diocese of Charlotte or to your parish. Simply have the following

Charlotte (or ( or

Rector: I he Verv Reverend Ptiul Gaiy

1621 Dilwortli

Road

East

(

hiulota. \( iSiO-i

(^ons^iiiH^

,

Roman

Catholic Diocese of

parish, city) the

sum of $

percent of the residue of my estate) for

religious, educational

and charitable works''

For more information on how lo make a Will that works, contact Jim Kelley, Diocese of Charlotte. Office of Development, 1123 South C huich St., Charlotte, NC 28203, (704) 370-3301

m if:

m

statement included in your Will: "/ leave to the

in their

parish or mission. What is your response

concern for loved ones, as well as an ongoing commit-

Parochial Vicar: Reverend Walter Ray Williams

North

more people give, more God seems to fill their own

Carolina. Truly, the

will help people recognize Christ in themselves and Christ in one another.

-

brothers

our response to

are currently blessed with

29 candidates studying for the priesthood, and it is very expensive to educate these men.

cese.

suf-

we all suffer. When one person rewe all rejoice." As bishop, I am

joices,

way, the ever-increasing demands made upon the diocese. One of the most urgent needs we have at the moment is educating our seminarians. With a recent

the bishop.

re-

a wider focus and understanding of what

sible

it

it

ceives from parishioners. The DSA, though, is a visible reminder, a challenge to Catholics to recognize the entire dio-

My vision of the future is trying to understand and meet, in a very respon-

in the hurting

this year,

The number of young people taking advantage of our various campus minisprograms is growing as well. Whenever I visit colleges or universities in the diocese, I am tremendously encouraged by the reception I receive from these try

G. Curlin on the demands placed on diocesan ministries and agencies. "We as Christians must be willing and prepared

The campaign from January 31 through March 29 will rise to

out the benevolence of the people of the

Interview with

challenges," says Bishop William

their support.

rector of development. "This

An

Bishop William G. Curlin

people in the diocese," says Rohrman.

"There are always new needs and

ministries.

will appear

DSA helps

turing, life-changing ministries for the

Catholic News Herald will reflect on many of the life-sustaining

Through a

"The

raise necessary funds for these life-nur-

Associate Editor

CHARLOTTE

its

"

& Herald

4 The Catholic News

January 30, 1998

The Pope Speaks

CPro^Sife Corner

Pope John Paul II

Pope Says Media Should Unite People,

The pope urged

Not Exploit Them

the

ers or audiences as

"This debate [about partial-birth abortion] searches out the soul of our culture. It is ultimately a question of how we are willing to define

ourselves as a

civilization.

ask ourselves, are we so

We must

self-indul-

gent in our nation that all notions of right and wrong can be summarily reduced to a matter of choice?...Let us reaffirm America as a culture of hope, a culture of life.

— Rep. Tim Hutchinson

&

piscopial Galencfar

*

or objects of manipulation to

meet

not to isolate and exploit them," he said.

Pope John Paul asked Christians involved in communications to deepen their own prayer lives and technical skills so that they can communicate hope to others and help build community.

—

January 31 5 p.m.

Monument Thomas Aquinas Church, Charlotte

On Death Row

—

WASHINGTON (CNS) Pope John Paul II has asked Texas Gov. George W. Bush to grant clemency to Karla Faye Tucker, a Texas woman scheduled to die Feb. 3 for two 1983 pickax murders. Tucker, 38, would be the first woman executed in Texas since 1863 and the first anywhere in the United States since 1984.

She admits her part in the murders but is now a bomagain Christian. Supporters say she is a changed woman who devotes her time in prison to Bible study, counseling and helping other inmates, and who does extensive work, through mail, visits and educational videos, to counsel young people against drug use. At the time of the murders she was a 23-year-old prostitute who had been using drugs since she was 8.

5:30 p.m.

Thomas Aquinas Church

"Christian communicators will corrmiunicate hope

and

1

if they first

this will

experience hope in their own lives,

happen only

if

they are

men and women

Pope John Paul said there are plenty of hopeful stories communicators can relay to their readers or audience.

February

one's relationship with other people.

of prayer," the pope said.

Confirmation

— 11 a.m.

As examples, he

— progress — "A environment.

— have been — "A

Cathedral, Charlotte

in the service of

and especially medi-

human

life.

greater awareness of our responsibility for

the

"Efforts to restore peace and justice

February 5 Speaker

Feb.

Mass St.

6— 7:15a.m.

Knights and Dames of Malta Patrick Cathedral, Charlotte

for

—

February 7 11:15 a.m.

Mass for Permanent Deacons St. Patrick

Cathedral, Charlotte

desire for reconciliation

and solidarity among

peoples, particularly in the complex relationship be-

tween the North and South of the world."

Within the church, too, he said, there are signs of hope, "among them a more attentive listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit prompting the acceptance of charisms and the promotion of the laity; a deeper commitment to Christian unity; and a growing recognition of the importance of dialogue with other religions and with contemporary culture."

—

February 8 9:45 a.m.

Speaker Myers Park Baptist Church group, Charlotte

The Catholic

News

& Herald

January 30, 1998

where they

violated,

Aquinas/Lutheran Dialogue Lenoir-Rhyne College, Hickory

^

Volume 7 • Number 21 Most Reverend William G. Curlin Editor: Michael Krokos Associate Editor: Joann Keane Publisher:

Writer:Jlmmy Rostar Hispanic Editor: Luis Wolf Advertising Manager: Gene Sullivan Production Associate: Julie Radcllffe Secretary: Jane Glodowski Staff

1123 South Church St., Charlotte, NC 28203 Mall: PO Box 37267, Charlotte, NC 28237 Phone: (704) 370-3333 FAX: (704) 370-3382 E-mail: CNHNEWS@A0L.COM

Editor's

The Catholic News & Herald. USPC 007-393, is published by Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte, 1123 South Church Charlotte, NC 28203, 44 times a year, weekly except for Christmas week and Easier week and every two weeks during June, July and August for $1 5 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. POSTt^lASTER: Send address corrections to The Catholic News & Herald, PO Box 37267, Charlotte, NC 28237.

—

pope. In the

letter,

Helms, a leading supporter of the

35-year-old U.S. embargo against Cuba, said he joined

many Americans

in

hoping that the pope's

trip

would

help bring about a "free, just and united" Cuba.

Notebook percent increase over

and

sisters

Bishop William G. Curlin speaks of "love of God and neighbor" when discussing the annual Diocesan Support Appeal, which begins this weekend. The campaign, which runs from Feb. 1 -March 29, focuses on the life-giving work of 35 diocesan ministries and how

last

The reason for the As the diocese continues to grow at a rapid rate, so do the demands year's goal.

increase

simple:

is

and needs for the services of its

agencies. In 1997,

more

than 40,000 people benefited

changed.

Through our faith, we are called to love and serve one another. This year's DS A theme, "Love in Action," encourages us to reflect on the gifts God has provided, blessings that vary from household to household and

from DSA-related programs.

person to person. Through their gifts, parishioners are given the opportunity to put their love of Christ in ac-

of the diocesan ministries.

lives are

tion. the

Vatican Surprised At Timing Of Release Of Senator's Letter CAMAGUEY, Cuba (CNS) The Vatican expressed its surprise after a letter from U.S. Sen. Jesse Helms, R-N.C, on the pope's Cuba trip was made public almost before the pontiff had a chance to see it.

Vatican spokesman Joaquin Navarro- Vails characterized Helms' letter, dated the day Pope John Paul U arrived in Cuba, as a personal, private message to the

Mike Krokos

Love In Action Ministries assist our brothers

For the

less fortunate, the blessings

come from the

services provided by diocesan ministries and agencies

St.,

them in meeting sometimes difficult needs.

As in years past, parishioners are asked to be good stewards of their resources during the appeal, which which

assist

affords each of us the opportunity to offer financial assistance in the church's mission to help others.

1998

DSA

goal

is

The

$2,760,000, which represents a 7

\

\

listed:

"Scientific, technological

cal

Mass St. Patrick

said,

holds out hope both for a healing of one's relationship

credibly

.

Pope Asks Clemency For Texas Woman

While Christian hope is ultimately hope for happiness with God at the end of time, the pope said, it also is "deeply related to the search for happiness and ful-

God and

of commu-

gether and enrich their lives,

Frances de Sales, the

God's promise of redemption and salvation, he

sales or political goals.

"It is the task

nication to bring people to-

World Communications Day will be celebrated May 24 in most dioceses. The 1998 theme is: "Sustained by the Spirit, Communicate Hope."

with

Dedication of Pro-Life

St.

St.

mere

consumers, interest groups

fillment in this life."

Bishop Williaim G. CmrKinL wiE take part in tke folowing events:

St.

—

VATICAN CITY (CNS) The communications media should bring people together, not isolate or exploit them. Pope John Paul II said in his message for World Communications Day 1998. "The means of social communication, properly used, can help to create and sustain a human community based on justice and charity; and, insofar as they do that, they will be signs of hope," the pope said.

The pope's message for the 32nd church celebration of communications day was published by the Vatican Jan. 24, the feast of patron saint of journalists.

me-

dia not to regard their read-

This year, that number will surely increase.

this

Each parish and mission will kick off the campaigi weekend by presenting a video highlighting som

You

J

will also receive a let

from Bishop Curlin asking for your support.

This issue of The Catholic News & Herald focuse§ on several of the DSA-funded agencies and their im pact on the people of the diocese. Others will be high-^ lighted in the weeks ahead. ter

The church

DSA

in

challenges

answer the

call

all

Catholics to assist the

—

helping our primary missions We pray that parishioners again to put their love into action.

one of

its

brothers and sisters.

1

The Catholic News

January 30, 1998

Sound

& Herald 5

Management Lay Ministry Program Offers

Fiscal

Paramount For Diocesan Opportunity To Sen/e Others KATHY SCHMUGGE Support Appeal Donations MAGGIE VALLEY — When Is

By

local soup kitchen. Several parishioners

with useful information on applying the she said, adding that the program's workshops also gave her the opportunity to exchange ideas with other people in the diocese, an experience she found invaluable.

Having ushered Barnes and 10 other parishioners at St. Margaret Church through her certification program, Mercy Sister Mary Timothy Warren, director of

were so inspired by the experience

lay ministry for the Charlotte Diocese,

Correspondent

By JO ANN

KEANE

growing population within the con-

m

Associate Editor

—

CHARLOTTE

straints

Though

months away from the next

ministries are laid to rest. It's fiscal plan-

ning process that keeps ministries in

check with the valuable

m

resources donated by the people

of the diocese.

"This

we

of their budgets.

keep programs true to their missions,

a goal care-

The

lic

Church took those words to heart. As Sunday's intergenerational

part of that

catechesis, almost half of the congregation did a day's

1998 campaign includes a

they

7 percent increase over

kitchen.

last

I

an example of how

is

it is

fully scrutinized.

year

—

a minimal in-

when balanced

crease

exercise our stewardship

Sunday readings mentioned feeding the poor, parishioners at St. Margaret Catho-

This year, $2,760,000 is the target goal for the support appeal. And in tune with the philosophies that

six

fiscal il year,

budgetary plans for diocesan merely a part of the

faith,"

the

against a

booming

dioc-

now

On

work at the Open Door,

are regular volunteers at the

Basilicas feast of the St. Peter and St. Paul, celebrated in

November,

the parish

esan population and infla-

chartered a bus to tour the Basilica of

donated dollar," said Chief Financial Officer Bill Weldon.

tion rates.

Lawrence

"We

rveiaon

are accountable to the

Services, Multi-Cultural Ministries,

And accountability is cyclical within from budget preparation monthly monitoring of ministry bud-

the fiscal year, to

gets to the annual reporting to the dio-

cese as a whole in The Catholic

Herald. But the process

an arbitrary

circle.

is

more than just

Ministry budgets are

Occasionally programs phase out, oth-

Budgets are never automatically increased and programs must be

ers begin.

justified.

know

firsthand

how hard the

pro-

gram directors work to serve our increasing population," said Weldon. "It inspiration to see the

many

Educational Ministries and Vocational

Thousands of

lives are

touched, as a result of the 35

DSA sup-

Ministries.

ported ministries.

News &

analyzed closely, programs are reviewed.

"1

DSA

beneficiaries of

funding: Catholic Social

people of the diocese for the prudent use of these gifts."

is

an

services that

And

the diocese operates fiscal cycle

marked

on a July

year to

additional funding

—

June

is

ear-

works of two expanding ministries, Casa Guadalupe, a CSS outreach program, and Campus Ministry, an Educational ministry.

"The church of the Diocese of Charlotte is a vibrant church," said Weldon.

"Increasing needs along with the population growth of the 46 western counties of North Carolina call us to reach out to

ing they have."

rifices; it's

Ministry directors are constantly try-

—

fiscal

to support the

and the number of lives affected by the programs, knowing the amount of funding available. It is a tribute to the creativity of the program directors who do so much with the fundare offered,

upcoming

in the

more people than

"We make

sacrifices to support the

their parishes

said

ever."

understand that people do

Weldon.

DSA,

and Catholic Schools,"

"We appreciate

not something

granted."

ing to expand services in response to the

those sac-

we

take for

St.

was an educaages which not

in Asheville. It

tional experience for all

only fostered an appreciation for the beauty and traditions of the church, but motivated many parishioners to actively participate in the restoration of their own parish facilities.

particularly pleased with the active role

These are but two examples of how Church are bear-

edging the indispensable support of Father Houseknecht who has continued to provide guidance in their endeavors.

"My two-year program involves workshops which follow a Vatican II course curriculum," Sister Mary Timothy said. The recent church document on the collaboration of laity and clergy, released in August 1997, will also be helpful in the future by providing clarity on the unique role of the laity. Although

Mary Timothy

Sister

is

not directly in-

the laity at St. Margaret

volved

ing witness to Christ through service.

sponsible for getting speakers and mate-

Their active lay ministry continually reaches out to more people, and parish-

rials,

ioners continually find

ways to share their

unique God-given talents with the church.

Under the guidance of Father Eric Houseknecht, administrator, the non-ordained faithful have taken advantage of numerous opportunities to spiritually grow. Father Houseknecht sees the laity taking ownership of their small parish of

200 families, working together in a way which may seem new and innovative, but yet

fits

the description of the early Chris-

tian community described in the New Testament. "Our lay involvement is a parish-wide experience including all ages," he said, pleased with the initiative taken by so many of his parishioners.

Joy Barnes, the sacristan at St. Margaret Church, has been very active in

in giving instruction, she is re-

finding locations for workshops and planning the agenda for the programs.

Her hope is that the training program "will promote greater involvement

among the laity," at St.

like what Margaret Church.

is

being seen

"Through our baptism, we are all called to serve," said Sister Mary Timothy. Pope John Paul II has said that the laity's talents "must be wisely and careacknowledged, safeguarded, promoted, discerned and coordinated, without confusing roles, functions or theological and canonical status." Such has been the case for the parishioners at St. Margaret Church who have been led to fulfill their baptismal promises. fully

Lay ministry

is

among

the

35 dioc-

esan ministries and agencies that are

how the

partially or fully funded by the Diocesan

diocesan lay ministry training program helped motivate her to get more involved.

Support Appeal. For more information about the lay ministry program in the Diocese of Charlotte, call Mercy Sister Mary Timothy Warren, (704) 370-3213.

various ministries. She described

"The program

groundwork, covering a variety of topics that provided me

Camp Merrimac

is

they have taken in the parish, acknowl-

the missionary dedication of the

responsibility in regard to each

Four areas of ministry

a

that

laid the

"More than Just a camp."

A Summer

Camp for Girls

Ways To Give

Ages 6-16

Camp Timberlake

The Diocesan Support Appeal

""A summer of fun, building confidence, and motivation."

A Summer Camp for Boys

Ages 6-15 In the Blue Ridge For

brochure

&

Mountains of NX.

is

a

call to

give financial

support to 35 agencies and ministries.

Most people contribute by making a pledge, payable over six months. But there are other ways to give, such as donating stocks or bonds, says Jim Kelley, director of development.

Consider supporting the DSA not only in the present but also in the future through such means as wills and trusts.

'This allows people to give now and to give later," says Kelley.

information, write or call

Dorothy Boyd 1229 Montreat Road, Black Mountain,

Spencer

8t

(704) 669-8766

NC

2871

For information on

wills

and trusts,

(704) 370-3301 or (704) 370-6299.

call Jim Kelley at

6 The Catholic

.

News

& Herald

January 30, 1998

From left, Ryan

HE Diocesan Support Appeal helps us reach out IN LOVING SERVICE TO ChRIST IN OUR NEIGHBOR. The Diocese of Charlotte is CONSTANTLY RESPONDING TO AN EVER-INCREASING FAMILY OF FAITH, REACHING OUT WITH 35 DSAFUNDED MINISTRIES. THROUGH ^ THEIR GIFTS, PARISHIONERS ARE

Fink, Astrid

Verdegaal,

residents of a local

nursing home. The

women

are

members of

the

Catholic campus

GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO PUT

ministry group of

Western Carolina

THEIR LOVE OF ChRIST IN ,

Amber

Kaye and Teresa Eberly make Christmas cards for

University in

ACTION.

Cullowhee.

Parish and mission families FROM THE SMALLEST MISSION TO THE LARGEST PARISH BENEFIT FROM THE SERVICES MADE POSSIBLE BY THE DSA. Some of the DSA-supported ministries at St. Pius X

—

—

Church

in

Greensboro and

St.

Mary Church

in Sylva

are highlighted on these pages. they are energetic faith communities made even stronger by dsa-related ministries.

Rev. Mr. Gerry Herbers, the parish's permanent

deacon, addresses the

congregation

at

|

Mass.

Among permanent j

deacons'

many

responsi-

bilities is offering j

homihes during hturgy

when called upon to do

Members

ot the parish's Respect Lite ministry pray for the

unborn

at

a recent

gathering. Pictured from left Gloria Schweizer, April Karby, Vicki Provost, chair,

and Alline Ramsey. The group's patron saint is Our Lady of Guadalupe, patronness of the Americas, whose feast day is Dec. 12.

Members of the parish's fourth-grade faith formation class listen to catechist Mary Bixby during a recent class. Pictured with Bixby from left are Stephanie Phipps, Shannon Murphy and Nicole Weaver.

Photos on this page depict some of the DSA-supported ministries at St. Mary. The ministries are: Campus Ministry; Faith Formation; Lay Ministry; Respect Life; and Permanent Diaconate.

St.

Mary Church Sylva

The Catholic News

January 30, 1998

Photos on St.

some of the DSA-supported ministries at CRISM; Prison Ministry; Youth Ministry; Justice and Peace; and Catholic Schools.

this page depict

Pius X. The ministries are:

St.

Pius

& Herald 7

X Church

Greensboro

8

The Catholic News

&

Herald

January 30, 1998

Bishop Interview, from page 3 the gitts ot the people ot

church.

And

am

I

God

to the

very pleased in the

Students Find ASU Campus Ministry A IHome Away From Home

explanation and the accountability that is

offered in The Catholic

ald of

how

every nickel

Many

spent.

people are served through these various ministries,

and the newspaper also serves

as a resource, sharing stories of

how

these agencies assist our brothers and

Every parish

sisters in faith.

in the dio-

cese receives help from some DSAfunded ministry. There are some parishes that receive help from as many as 25 ministries each year.

How

important

stewardship of time, talent and treasure to a person 's faith journey? How does stewardship is

DSA ?

relate to the

By

News & Her-

is

once asked Mother Teresa about her outreach of service to the world, and how people admired her for caring for the least of our brothers and sisters. Her response was, "No, we are not social workers. Once you have the deep love of God in you, that love compels you to live and speak a certain way."

KATHY SCHMUGGE

— Tucked

So stewardship challenges us to take and the appeal

ible action,

way

and put is

it

have

The

in Christ.

DSA

we

life

our conis ever

stirs

science, reminding us that Christ

and

present, challenging us to see, love

serve

him

in the least of

our brethren.

tance

in the

the

the university attracts students

Church and the Catholic students at ASU. Alton has received much support from Father Conrad Hoover, St.

from

all

ordinating the "adopt-a-student" pro-

gram between

over the country.

Among

body are a considerable number of Catholics, making Rothe student

man Catholicism the sec-

strong

ond largest denomination on campus. With this sigand the remoteness of the area, a student outreach program has been

who

are far

it

camASU, a job

pus minister position at which has been most rewarding for him.

With unparalleled enthusiasm, he has Ministry

ASU

Catholic

(CCM) program,

in addition to the

Sunday evening

other opportunities

and students

Campus

nearly dou-

to interact.

colleges and universities in the diocese,

with an average of 10-12 percent of the student body professing to be Roman

said.

When Alton is not busy with the stu-

The campus minister

also sees a

social services, educational services, multi-cultural services

and vocations

in

You Have

the diocese?

In

all

honesty, every agency

is

keep up with all the demands made upon it. There are always new needs and new challenges, and we as Christians must be willing and prepared to meet those increasing needs.

Our Lord warned us that the poor will always be with us, so we have to recognize our work will never be done.

The DSA

Because choosing a is

Home

many

It's

easy to understand

families

choose

St.

Catholics.

Even though 4 percent of the

See Campus

why

to

so

Ministry,

page 12

FOUR GREAT NAMES

Health Agency

a decision that can affect your entire

fanniiy,

KNOW

Joseph of the

Pines...

Before you leave the hospital,

the voice of Christ constandy

is

a Choice

con-

stantly challenged to

campus minister in CaUfomia.

Through some initial research, McDermott has discovered some interesting statistics. There are more than 60 as a

Since Alton has been the campus minister, he has tried to be flexible and creative with the students. Once a week, he cooks a meal for them his specialty, homemade bread and soup. After dinner, a core group of about 20 students might pray together and share some reflections.

"With the busy schedules of the students, this dinner may be the only time in the week they can be together and relax," he

—

"fate" that while applying

for a teaching post, he landed the

resurrected the

brings to the job six years of experience

held on campus two days a

for parishioners

After spending 12 years in a Benedictine monastery in Pennsylvania,

asked to choose from a long

challenging us to be sensitive to the pres-

home

ence of Jesus in the hurting people around us.

health providers.

you'll list

know

Dignity St.

Why Take

counties

Simplicity

central

don't

anything about?

Joseph of the Pines has offered

serv'ices for

be

of

a Chance on a company you

AfforAahility

27 years and has

1

4

Home

Health

offices serving

24

in

North Carolina.

Carolina

^ huTieral 1

r,

5505 Monroe Rd. charloiic,

Cremation Center

NC

28212 ™4.568.0023

A Member of

Owner/Director Matll,ew Churcl,

K„hjhL. of Columbus

1117 East Morehead Street, Suite 100 • Charlotte. NC 28204 (704) 342-0908 or 1-800-342-0908 • FAX: (704) 342-1932

PHONE:

SERVING CHARLOTTE WITH INTEGRITY FOR

OVER

Steven Kuznria, St.

St Joseph of the Pines

HOME HEALTH AGENCY -- www.sjp.org

DEALERSHIPS

CravesiJs S=rvl«. anJ Cremation Options

Cliurcli,

MemL;-

li

and

who

rectory

whose

CCM building.

Mass which provides

for his "kids."

Like other campus ministers in westresource in Colleen McDermott, director of Campus Ministry/Young Adult

across the street from

the

week,

said.

em North Carolina, Alton now has a new

assumed this new position in August.

With a master' s degree in theology from the University of San Francisco, she

is

is

don't want to push anything on them,"

he

Ministry for the Charlotte Diocese,

the priest,

Mass

students, Alton is planning a Bible study group. "I wait for their cues because I

self very accessible to the

away

from their own Catholic community. No one is more aware of their needs than their campus minister, Ed Alton, who has tried to create "a home away from home"

Alton calls

commitment to the made him-

Sunday evening Mass, where an average of 40 students gather.

Another group meets on Thursday night to pray the rosary, and at the request of large group for

youth, and has

students," said Alton of

nificant Catholic presence

valuable for students

families at St. Elizabeth

Elizabeth Church pastor, as well. "Father Conrad has a

bling participation.

Are the 35 ministries that are funded by the DSA keeping up with the need for

campus. He also parishioner Alana Taylor in co-

away from

assists

to vis-

a positive

of expressing that interior

at St.

Elizabeth Catholic Church, a short dis-

away

mountain resort town of Boone is Appalachian State University. With its breathtaking landscape and solid academics,

I

that interior love of God

music ministry

dents, he directs the

Correspondent

BOONE

the Sisters of Providence Health

System

35 YEARS!

The Catholic News

January 30, 1998

& Herald 9

Of One Heart and One Mind

Justice & Peace Office Leads Response To Bishops' Pastoral By

JIMMY ROSTAR Staff Writer

CHARLOTTE — Education, action, opportunities and prayer. Those are the key ingredients in a recipe for change penned by North Carolina' s two Roman Catholic bishops, says the official charged with implementing the shep-

children in financial

themselves to ensure means of economic

need interspersed

justice for everyone.

As

throughout. Frazer

stressed in the bishops' letter,

says the pastoral's

Frazer emphasizes that the ultimate pur-

simplicity lends

are taking ownership of," says Joanne K.

largely

positive.

pose of any pastoral-related initiative is to not only address the effects of poverty, but to resolve the root causes of poverty as well. "We currently do not have enough living-wage jobs that people can move right into," she says.

"We as Catholics need to be looking at

Frazer, director of the Office of Justice

Making

state

and

how to build those systems that will guar-

and Peace. "People in the diocese have been calling to tell us how they're picking up on it."

What the phones are ringing about is "Of One Heart and One Mind," the economic justice pastoral letter issued in November 1997 by Bishops William G. Curlin of Charlotte and F. Joseph Gossman of Raleigh. From pastoral councils to faith formation groups, Catholics across western North Carolina are finding ways to incorporate the

national headlines

pastoral's appeals into their social mis-

And now, the job of carrying out its message is underway.

Frazer is halfway through a series of meetings with pastors of each vicariate in the diocese. Working with the bishops' suggestions for involvement, "we are looking at understanding the pastoral and the implications for implement-

herds' pleas in the Charlotte Diocese.

"This

is

something a

lot

of people

sion.

Although the letter's guidelines will be formally addressed in this diocese through Catholic Social Services' Office of Justice and Peace, the real change must take place within the parish, civic and business communities, Frazer says.

Diocese of Raleigh, the Office of Peace and Justice, directed by Franciscan Sister Joan Jurski, is responsible for similar implementation there.

In the

self to its

it-

message's

impact.

Response to the pastoral has been

widespread

in the secular

and

antee economic self-sufficiency."

The task involves much

and

Catholic press, it has been lauded as a monumental document for the church in the Tar Heel State because of its compassionate and con-

homeless shelter is an important part of our chariable work," she says. "But we must also tackle the problem of why there is not food available to hungry chilat a

In their

pastoral

letter,

"Of

One

One

Heart and

Mind,"

dren."

F. Joseph Gossman call upon become acquainted and involved with

Bishops William G. Curlin and

crete illustrations of

Catholics statewide to

outreach to the eco-

the economic reality facing the impoverished

in

"To change societal structures so that

it

at the parish level,"

she says.

The companion piece

will serve as a

discussion guide for pastoral councils,

times, Frazer agrees, but

discussion groups, parish ministries and

the church and

of us through our us

own communities

Catholics and others of good will to take

fering," Frazer says. "It will help parish-

action.

ioners understand

how to educate themhow to be advocates for the poor, and how they can help with empowering

in

selves,

lives of

life in

to those

who

work, the nemarket to

North Carolina.

The

letter is

concisely written, with

true-to-life stories of

women, men and

in alleviating the suf-

volvement

all its

she says with a smile.

is

gifts,

"God calls each and every one of

capable of and needs to be praying

for the grace, compassion,

and wisdom

to help in these times."

in the issue.

While follow-up

The diocesan Office of Justice and Peace is entirely fiinded through the gen-

to the pastoral

and is-

largely concerns long-range goals

sues, Frazer says the time

is

With welfare reform

now

for

erosity of Catholics

who contribute to the

Diocesan Support Appeal. To receive a copy of the bishops pastoral letter or to receive more information on follow-up initiatives, call Joanne K. Frazer, (704) 370-3225.

initiatives

'

North Carolina scheduled to touch the thousands of families later this year, she says Catholics must ready

Employment Opportunities Director of Music: 1500-family parish seeks part-time professional with liturgical music experience. Pogrows to full-time. Requires organ, keyboard and vocal skills, working with Send or fax resume to: St. John Neumann Church, 8451

tential

youth and adult choirs.

Idlewild Rd.. Charlotte,

NC

28227. Fax: (704) 536-3147

Diocesan Regional Coordinators: Charlotte Diocese Office of Religious Education has two openings: Northern Vicariates and Southern Vicariates. Diocese seeks persons with master's degree in Rel. Ed/

demonstrable successful experience in parish/diocesan work. formation skills. Collaborative. Sensitive to cultural micommunication skills. Please send resume and three letters of recommendation to: Dr. Cris V. Villapando, 1 123 S. Church St., Charlotte, NC 28203, Attn: Search Committee. Inquiries: (704) 370-3244. Deadline: February 27, allied field, five years of

Well-rounded

in catechist

norities.

Good

1998. or

when

written/oral

filled.

'Spirit Project Assistant Position: newcomer

Where:

and vocational ESL classes for newly arrived refugees; coordinating refugee health education and crime prevention activities. Experience in refugee resettlement services is required. A degree in Human Services/Social Work with bilingual ability is preferred. Computer literacy a must. ESL teaching skill is a plus. Submit resume with references to: Refugee Resettlement Office, 1123 South Church Street, Charlotte, NC 28203 by February 2, 1998.

When:

Full-time position needed immediately. Responsibilities include: conducting orientation

Lunch: What:

Duties include translation/intercoordinating needed refugee services, and transporting clients to appointments. Must be fluent in Vietnamese and English. High school education or equivalent. Valid NC driver license. Submit resume with references to: Refugee Resettle-

Cost:

123 South Church Street, Charlotte,

February

6,

Friday:

February

7,

Saturday:

NC

Cliarlone,

at restaurants in area,

Bring

space will be provided.

luncli,

Ralph Martin: Shields:

$10 per Adult

for

NC

7:00 -9:30 pm 8:00 am - 4:00

On your own

pm

or

The Catholic Church At The End Of An Age

How Do We Respond To What The Spirit Is Saying John Paul

one/ both events.

II And the (

1

Grace Of The Jubilee Year 2000

7 and under Free;

Directions:

Renewal Ministries at the end of each event) At trafTic light on NC 49 at LINCC Campus turn east onto Sutlier Rd in second block on right at MOO Suthcr Road, Charlotte, N C.

Questions:

Call Paul Deer (104) 948-0628

(An oiTcrlng

pretation;

1

Speaks To The Church'

Thomas Aquinas Church,

Ann

Bilingual Case Aide:

ment Office,

St.

Peter Herbeck:

Full-time, temporary position needed immediately.

at

that

Beginning in March, Frazer will conduct implementation worskshops for

ing on the moral dimensions of economic

wages

one

parishioners in each vicariate.

those without jobs, and Catholic teach-

living

will issue a

it is

ganizations.

other parish- and community-based or-

cessity of training for the job

jor themes: the importance of assuring

and Peace

piece to the bishops' missive.

of

people must travel for the benefit of others. "I'm hopeful because I know that this is God's work,"

Plans for the near future also include

tice

lot

same thing," she adds.

The road ahead may be bumpy

the poor."

addressing the business community's in-

ma-

food takes a

cernment, a lot of connecting with other organizations that are trying to do the

companion "We've developed a parish social ministry model so that parishes can look more deeply at how they can be more effective in their

pastoral highlights several

to

data gathering, a lot of prayer and dis-

In mid-February, the Office of Jus-

The

have access

all will

the state.

nomically deprived.

ing

effort,

Frazer admits. "Serving dinner to people

for

St

Tlioi

28203.

Ji presentation of ZYyE CftChOLlC ei>ftNQgLIZAClDW COnXDlSSlON

Of ChARt-OClTg

10 The Catholic

News

& Herald

January 30, 1998

Diocesan News Briefs Sacred Works Concert

ing level, helps couples realize that their

ASHEVILLE The Basilica of St. Lawrence hosts a performance of sacred works by Catherine Haas Riley, a local composer and educator, Feb. 8 at 3 p.m.

problems are not unique, helps couples identify their values and priorities, and teaches couples to forget the past and start anew. The program begins March 27. For further information, call Nick and Irene Fadero in Charlotte, (704) 5440621, or (800) 470-2230.

—

Womansong

of Asheville and other

sicians will join in choral

mu-

and ensemble

Admission is free. Call (704) 252-6042 for more information.

pieces.

Natural Family Planning

ASHEVILLE

— Nazareth Parenting

Center of the Basilica of St. Lawrence sponsors a natural family planning meeting Feb. 15 at 3 p.m. in St. Justin Center across from the basilica. The meetings includes a brief overview of NFP, discussion, materials on display and refreshments. Call (704) 252-6042 for further details.

—

Ministry sponsors a National Black History

Month

Our Lady of Consolation

The Johnson C. Smith

Universiry Choir will perform old Ne-

The Very Rev. Mauricio West, Vicar General and Chancellor, will be the guest speaker. Admission is free. gro spirituals and Gospel songs.

—

College's Parents'

celebration on Sunday, Feb.

8 at 5 p.m., at

Church.

Weekend

Parents'

BELMONT

Black History Month Program CHARLOTTE The Diocese of American Affairs

Charlotte's African

Belmont Abbey Weekend is Feb. 13-

"My

Members

Teen Lenten Retreat

GREENSBORO

— The Office of

of the kindergarten

and

first-grade faith formation class at in this

with the parish's winterrecent photograph.

Heart Belongs to the Abbey," and events include

Youth Ministry of the Charlotte Diocese

an address by Dr. Robert Preston, college president; a tour of the abbey church; a basketball double-header; and Mass. For more information, call Augusta Gladd, (704) 825-6888.

Church from Feb. 27 at 8 p.m. until March 1 following an 11:30 a.m. Mass and lunch. The cost is $50, with a $25 deposit due by Feb. 20 and the balance due upon arrival. The fee covers all food

Church sponsors a parish mission called "The Presence of God" Feb. 15-Feb. 18 at 7:15 p.m. each day. The mission's focus is on the manner of God's presence

and materials for the retreat, including a For details and registra-

ence and the transformation that takes places when people connect to that presence. Father Frederick A. Pompei, a priest of the Diocese of Syracuse, N.Y., who has traveled extensively throughout the United States in a ministry of evangelization and renewal, is the mission leader. All are invited to attend. For more information, call (704) 664-3992.

Catholic School presents

Spaghetti Dinner STATESVILLE The Knights of Columbus St. James Council 7152 hosts a spaghetti dinner at St. Philip Church on Feb. 15 from 4-6:30 p.m. For more

materials.

15.

This year's theme

is

of presents a Lenten retreat

at St.

Pius

Evangelization Conference

retreat T-shirt.

CHARLOTTE

tion forms, call the Office of Youth

—

The Catholic

Evangelization Commission of Charlotte

sponsors "Millennium! Spirit Speaks to the Church," with talks about the upcoming Jubilee Year by Catholic evangelists Ralph Martin, Ann Shields and Peter Herbeck, Feb. 6-7 at St. Thomas Aquinas

Church. Registration for the Feb. 6 pro-

gram

is at

7 p.m.; the program

is

from

7:30-9:30 p.m. Registration for the Feb. 7 program

is at 8 a.m.; the programs is from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Bring a bag lunch.

Cost is $10 for adults, with children ages 17 and under admitted free. Offerings for Renewal Ministries, a Catholic outreach dedicated to promoting evangelization and personal renewal, will be taken at the end of each talk. For further infor-

mation, call Paul Deer, (704) 948-0628.

istry,

Charismatic Mass

CHARLOTTE

—

A

charismatic

will be celebrated in St. Patrick

at 4 p.m. Prayer teams meet at 3 p.m. and after Mass. For more information, call Josie, (704) 527-

Cathedral Feb. 8

Min-

Marriage Encounter HICKORY Upcoming Marriage Encounter weekends are scheduled for

—

Feb. 20-22 and April 3-5 at the Catholic

Conference Center. For information, call Michael and Stacey Holcolm, (704) 8448181, or for reservations call Tom and Emilie Sandin, (910) 274-4424.

RCIA Retreat

MAGGIE VALLEY — A retreat for RCIA

groups

is at

the Living

Waters Reflection Center from Feb. 6 at 7:30 p.m. until after lunch Sunday. The retreat will be directed by Father Martin lott, OP, who will explore the topic "Getting In

Mass

X

(704) 370-3243.

parish

Touch With What

Our Lady

moment

Rosary Church in Lexington share a ready pastor, the Very Rev. Joseph Kelleher,

of the

Means To some major

It

Be Catholic" and discuss church teachings and traditions, as well as the richness of its spirituality. For more information, call (704) 926-3833.

in our lives, the experience of this pres-

—

information, call

Andrew DeRiso,

(704)

873-0166.

sacred call in the second half of life. Sessions are

Wednesdays

at

noon

until Feb.

Bring a bag lunch; drinks and desMargaret O'Neil, (910) 765-8775, or Wendy Glen, (910) 924-0400, for more information.

18.

serts are provided. Call

Valentine's Ball

SALISBURY

—

Sacred Heart its Annual

Valentine's Ball Feb. 7 at 7 p.m. at Country

Club of Salisbury. The event includes

dinner, dancing and a silent and live auc-

The cost is $25 per person, and advanced reservations are required. Call Phyllis Tonseth, (704) 637-7886, by Jan. 3 1 Proceeds benefit school facilities and

tion.

.

The Catholic News & Herald welcomes parish news for the diocesan news Good photographs are also welcome. Submit news releases and photos at least 10 days before the publication briefs.

Aging Seminar

WINSTON-SALEM

— Joseph's

date.

House of Our Lady of Mercy Parish hosts a series on aging using the anointing of the sick as a

model

for living one's

Around The Diocese

will

4676.

First Friday-Saturday

Mid-Winter Barbecue MONROE Knights of Columbus

—

ASHEVILLE

Council 10615 hosts and sponsors a mid-

Singing and Swinging

in

the '40s

CHARLOTTE — A social event for and Swinging in the Feb. 5 from 2-3 p.m. in the

seniors, "Singing

Forties,"

is

parish center hall at St. Gabriel Church.

"Special guests" include Ethel

Merman,

Bing Crosby, Louie Armstrong, Frank Sinatra and others. The performers are guests from the Carriage Club. There is no admission charge, and refreshments

Retrovaille

CHARLOTTE

— Retrovaille

1 1

a.m. -7

is

hope, teaches communication on a feel-

St.

Joan of Arc Church every

first

Sacrament is in the chapel area Saturday of the month from 2-4 p.m. Call

more information.

the church office, (704) 252-3151, for

Meals include local-recipe barbecued beef, chicken or pork, baked beans, slaw or potato salad, and bread. The cost is

Nocturnal adoration is the first Friday each month at Holy Church. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament begins at 7 p.m. each first Friday evening and concludes Saturday morning at 8 a.m. with Benediction, followed by first Saturday rosary and Mass. Call Jim Kennedy, (704) 732-2673, for

$5 per plate, or $6 for "all-you-can-eat" on the premises. A $1 discount applies to clergy, police officers, firefighters and

EMS

personnel. Take-outs are encour-

aged, and meals can be delivered for

a

for married couples that brings

of

Adoration

the Blessed

p.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Church.

groups of 20 or more. Proceeds benefit the church building fund. For call-in orders, phone (704) 283-7210.

follow the performance.

program

winter barbecue Jan. 31 from

— Exposition of

Parish Mission

MOORESVILLE

—

St.

Therese

DENVER

—

Spirit

more information.

—

HICKORY Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is the first Friday through the first Saturday each month at St. Aloysius Church. For information, call Jean Marie Hirsch, (704) 495-4339, or Sonja Bjerg, (704) 328-5074.

GREENSBORO St. Paul the Apostle Church hosts Eucharistic adoration beginning at 9:30 a.m. every first Friday and ending at 9 a.m. Saturday. Call (910) 294-4696 for details.

NEWTON Eucharistic adoration is at St. Joseph Church every first Friday of the month following the 12:10 p.m. Mass and lasting until 8 p.m. For more information, call (704) 464-9207 for more information.

—

—

0

1

The Catholic News

January 30, 1998

& Herald

1

1998 Diocesan Support Appeal Parish Targets St.

Aloysius

Hickory

Charlotte

Charlotte

Charlotte

$64 118

$268,958

$74,138

$28,358

Good Shepherd

St.

(Winston-Salem mission)

North Wilkesboro $7,374

St

Andrew the Apostle

Mars

Hill

$4,488

John Baptist de La

Salle

Charlotte

$63,944

Our Lady

of Fatima

St. Philip

Winston-Salem $17,062

$36,075

n

St.

the Apostle

Statesville

$6,315 St

Ann

St.

Chariotts

John the Baptist

Helen

St.

$?6 506

$59 984

i

f

ri

r '^^^

Pius

X

Greensboro $88,023

$58,139

Our Lady of Guadalupe

Prince of Peace

$2 051

R

^e nc^TlVk) u n ta^n Joseph

St Barnabas

$2,937

St.

Arden $42,958

Hoi

Anaels Mount

$19,016

$10,037

St.

B

fSt L awrence

I"

$37 383

B

d" t

L d °f L ^ Monroe

Holv Cross

Kannap'olis^'^^'°'^

Kernersville

$10,267 St.

H F Clemmons 1

_ _ rf- tth ^ Winston^Salem $9,605

M

d

®

Joseph

Joseph

^ °

fth

^

A niericas

of the Hills

L d

fth

Sacred Heart

S

1

Jude

Our Lady

t

Sacred Heart $39,780

St.

$46 270

O

L d fth H" h ^^V^ ^ Thomasville $9 630

$102,423

immaculate Conception

$9,496 Cantor?^^'"^ $2,1 18

Our Lady

of the

Mooresville

$60,178

uur Lady

ot tne

Kosary

Immaculate Conception

Charlotte

$1 3,265

$91 ,787

Dorothy

Lincolnton

Immaculate Conception

$11,879

Hendersonville

Maggie Valley 597

$1 3 <;t

Boone

Immaculate Heart of

$28,951

(Murphy mission)

l\/lary

Eua

ot.

Mark

M ^'^^

St Vincent de Paul

Il>4,DdO

$82 744 Cathedral

St. Patrick

, "^^^ ° p ^'"^

$10,953

<tCO

07Q

Offertory Increase: Increase: 7%

Paul

St.

St Mary

Greensboro $108,900

DSA Target: $2,760,000

Greensboro $1 9,357

Francis oi Assisi

Concord $45,476 St.

" '

$4,076

Francis of Assisi

St.

Mary

1998 Allocation of Funds

oneiDy

James

Hamlet QCO

St.

Mary

(to

Vocations

Multicultural

Campaign

Ministries

Expenses

8%

—

Joan

of

$5,671

Matthew

St.

$21 ,423

Charlotte

$136,725 St.

John

$12,458

Educational

?v

Arc

Asheville

Waynesville

Francis of Assisi

3% ""^

St.

Lenoir

$13,631

Mocksville

12%

DSA

Jefferson

St.

William

Murphy

$65,162

St J

$19,619

St.

St.

Charlotte

$50,030

Immaculate Heart of Mary High Point

St Franci<: of A«5

t

Huntersville

^

$55,661

_

M

$18,533 St.

Sparta $4,043

of the Angels (Morganton mission)

Swanna^oT

Elizabeth

Ah

Our Lady

Charlotte

$77,282

St

Thomas Aquinas

St

Forest City

$9,874

St.

Th

^t

Luke

Charlotte

St.

Stephen

Elkin

Mountains

$7,784 St.

St.

$5 468

St Lucien Spruce Pine

$4 098

niission)

aowin^'Rock*"^ $0

Salisbury

Leo

$5 810

Epiphany

$29,91

$7 838

Q QAO

Taylorsville

of the

of the

^

Holy Trinity

Church

CQQ

Brevard

H

Denver''

Christ the King High Point

<tO

A nnuncia '^fion

to KOC St.

<C-1

$4,238

rt

Sacred Heart (Monroe mission)

St.

onrisi ine iMng (Shelby mission)

tl

ri ^^"^^"^

Andrev^ Charles Borromeo Morganton $23 032

L d

O St

R

1

d H

S

Biscoe $7,268

$8 569

H

A

Burnsville'^'^^'^'^

Bryson City $5,1 96

Lirivilte^"^

fth ^

Belmon? $27 702

$23,872

O St.

Holy Infant

$9 809

O

$22 530

$72 765

tt ®

d

O L d fM Winston Salem^"^^^ $50,816

Joseph

1

Reidsville

B

,38

5)

O

Joseph

$40,748

Greensboro $1 5 452

St

\

"

Asheville°

St

...

Michael Gaston ia $69,249 St.

Catholic Social

Services

34%

Ministries

5

.

12

1

& Herald

The Catholic News

1998

January 30, 1998

DSA Ministries Budget Catholic Social Services

Diocesan Ministries Special Ministries $142,148

—

Natural Family Planning - Respect Life - Prison Ministry CRISM Elder Social Services - Widowed/Separated/Divorced Family Life Retrouvaille - Engaged Encounter

—

Office of Justice and Peace $76,107 Campaign for Human Development - Catholic Relief Services Parish Social Ministry - Voices for Justice - Legislative Network

— $7,626 Catholic Social Service Administration — $113,876 Refugee Resettlement Program

Regional Services Western Regional Office (Ashevllle)

— $165,059

Hispanic Services, Adoption, Counseling, Crisis Intervention, Foster Care, Pregnancy Support

Charlotte Regional Office

— $217,123

Casa Guadalupe, Adoption, Counseling,

— $194,490

Crisis Intervention,

704-370-3262

704-370-6299

Diocesan Ministries 704-370-3228

CRISM - Widowed,

African American Ministry

704-370-3399 Hispanic Ministry 704-335-1281

Separated,

Divorced

704-370-3230 Engaged Encounter

Hmong Retrouvaille

-

-

Prison Ministry

704-370-3228 Family Life - Natural Family Planning Elder Social Services

704-370-3250 Respect Life

— $5,300 — $155,156 Vietnamese Ministry — $18,150 Hmong Ministry — $27,185 Native American Ministry — $18,980

and Peace

Catholic Relief Services

Faith Formation 704-370-3246 Evangelization 704-370-3214

-

Issue Response

— Western

Liturgy and Worship

704-437-3108

Lay Ministry Training

- Adoption Counseling - Crisis Intervention Foster Care Pregnancy Support

Social Services Regional Office

— — — —

-

Media Resources

RCIA

Adoption - Counseling - Crisis Intervention - Foster Care - Pregnancy Support - Programa Esperanza PiedmontSocial Services Triad Regional Office 336-727-0705 Casa Guadalupe - Adoption - Counsel-

—

ing

Vocations

-

Crisis Intervention

-

Foster Care

-

Pregnancy Support

— $93,209 Seminarian Education — $252,861 Campaign Expenses — $103,794

704-370-3213 704-370-3241

— Charlotte

704-370-3232

— — Media Resources — $57,970 Vicar's Office — $48,429 Youth Ministry — $101 ,607

Ministry

704-370-3212

Hispanic Social Services

Educational Ministries Faith Formation $311,659 Catholic Schools $216,059 Campus Ministry $353,01 Evangelization $36,010 Liturgy and Worship $5,550 Lay Ministry Training $38,637

704-529-0553 Educational Ministries 704-370-3210

Catholic Schools Administration 704-370-3271

704-370-3225 Social Services Regional Office 704-255-0146

Multicultural Ministries

African American

Vietnamese Ministry

704-370-3225 Campaign for Human Development 704-370-3234

Education

Hispanic Ministry

Ministry

704-327-2341 Native American Ministry 704-497-2029

Campus

704-370-3229

704-370-3231

Foster Care, Pregnancy Support

Ministries

Multicultural Ministries

Office of Justice

Adoption, Counseling, Crisis Intervention, Foster Care, Pregnancy Support, Programa Esperanza

Piedmont Triad Office (Winston-Salem)

DSA Supported Agencies and Social Services IVIinistries

704-370-3246 Youth Ministry 704-370-321 Young Adult Ministry 704-370-3212 Vocations 704-370-6299 Permanent Diaconate 704-370-3344 Seminarian Education 704-926-0106

Permanent Diaconate

Campus

Total: $2,760,000

offered for individuals interested in be-

graphical area, Catholicism

ing campus ministers. The course work, from the Loyola Institute Ministry Extension (LIMEX) program in New Or-

Family Life Program PRESENTS single

day

retreat for families entitled

&

*'The Beautitudes Discipleship: Ministering

with Families'' Co-sponsored with The Office of Religious Education of the Diocesan Schools & St. Luke's Catholic Church

Name

At Wake Forest University,

Catholicism ranks first.

McDermott plans to oversee and

coordinate diocesan activities which unite all the campus ministries, such as yearly retreats, leadership training for the

and "immersion experiences."

The first planned "immersion" will be at Glenmary Farm in Kentucky. During students,

a school break, the students will

Street

Another

is

the internship

leans, offers a master's degree in reli-

gious education or pastoral care.

College students across the Diocese of Cliarlotte are ministered to in many ways by tlie campus ministry program, whicli is funded in part thanics to parishioners who give to the Diocesan Support Appeal. For more information on the campus ministry program, call its director, Colleen McDermott, (704)370-321:

program

1

with another person.

Address

is

Any

truly a remarkable and humbling experience to share time you minister to another, you yourself are minis-

tered to."

!/)CitY_

A

work

with the poor and study the structure of poverty in that region.

ness of each of our calls

i

overall the

Seminarian, from page 2

I

I

is

second largest denomination among the students.

A

Ministry, from page 8

general population in the diocese's geo-

Zip

Code_

Telephone

Gober says "the day-to-day schedule of coming to know and love Christ through other people and through the sacraments" is the aspect of priesthood that inspires him the most. "It's very humbling when I think about what exactly takes place during the celebration of the Eucharist," he adds. "It's such a wonderful calling."

Send $10

form to: Church St., 28203-4003

registration fee with

Office of Family

Life.

Charlotte,

CSS, 1123

NC

S.

The seminarian program

is

funded

in

part by the generosity of those

who

contribute to the Diocesan Support Appeal. If you or someone you know would like more information on vocations for the Diocese of Charlotte, call Father

Eric Houseknecht,

(

704 ) 926-01 06.

SPECIAL

POPE JOHN PAUL irS VISIT TO CUBA

to

The Catholic

j

News &

January 30, 1998

Herald

Havana, The Pope Urges Cuba To Return In

To

'Christian Soul'

Its

JOHN THAVIS HAVANA (CNS) — In a liturgy that marked a turnBy

Cuba and its

Pope John Paul II strongly defended religious freedom and the church's legitimate social role and called on the country to reing point for

turn to

its

Catholics,

"Christian soul."

Celebrating

Mass

lution Jan. 25, the

in Havana's Plaza of the Revopope said Cuba needs and wants a

strong voice.

audience, innonbelievers,

and the pope began by proclaiming that the church's message of love and solidarity

was not

political.

"In absolutely no

"great change" that transcends ideologies and that al-

this

lows space for the practice of the

economic or

faith in all areas of

The pope's sermon brought long applause and implicit challenge to the socialist

Fidel Castro,

who

sat in the front

political sysis

it

a path of ausaid.

and That

of

many

thentic peace, justice

freedom," he

regime of President

brought the

row of

long bursts of applause.

the plaza.

But the pope also sounded themes that Castro could condemning extreme forms of capitalism and "blind market forces" that have brought "unbearable burdens" on developing nations and widened the gap between the world's rich and poor. cheer,

The Mass was

the culmination of a five-day visit Caribbean island, and it drew the biggest and crowd of his trip. In a plaza normally reserved for Communist Party rallies, the altar stood between a giant painting of Jesus with the words, "Jesus Christ, I trust in you," and an equally big portrait of revolutionary hero Ernesto "Che" Guevara and the slogan, "Unto the

liveliest

til

way is new

an ideology or a

tem; rather

society.

cheers from a crowd of 150,000 people and offered an

was heard by

It

TV

many

a national

cluding

the final victory."

Castro had urged people to come to the liturgy, and several who attended described themselves as both communists and Christians. From the moment the pope arrived, a wave of excitement and sympathy flowed through the crowd.

The pontiff, suntanned and dressed in bright green vestments, pronounced his sermon slowly and in a

first

Pope John Paul gives a kiss to a young woman during Mass Jan. 23 in The pope then castiCamaguay, Cuba. The pope addressed young people during the service, talking gated communism's apon themes of freedom and peace. proach to religion, in language that was clear to all.

He criticized state systems that encourage conflict as a rights and responsibilities. He explained that the Gosmethod and "relegate religion to the merely private pel message opposes political systems that leave people no room for personal initiative, as well as those in which sphere, stripping it of any social influence or imporfreedom ends up imprisoning people in individualistic tance." selfishness.

All believers must have the right to live their faith The Gospel's liberation "cannot be reduced to its and freely express it in public life, and to count on adsocial and political aspects, but rather reaches its fullequate resources and opportunities to make a differness in the exercise of freedom of conscience, the baence in society, he said.

As the applause and chants of "We love you" grew sis and foundation of all other human rights," he said.

More cheers echoed through the plaza. longer, the pope smiled and remarked: "We're not As he did often in Cuba, the pope underlined his against applause, because when you clap, the pope can point by quoting from Cuban independence heroes. He rest." Castro smiled weakly at the quip, but there was II

more

to

come from came to

Christ

the church

cited the teaching of Jose Marti, a Catholic poet con-

the pontiff. "set at liberty those

pressed," the pope said to

more

must continue

to

who

are op-

cheers, and that

sidered one of the fathers of the country,

JOHN THAVIS

(CNS) Pope John Paul II's Cuba brought a budding sense of hope Caribbean nation, opening doors that one day lead to greater freedom and an

gradual," said Milvio Ramirez, a 26-year-old

knew the stakes were high during the The pope was paying a call on one of the last true communists, trusting that his message would get through without distortion or exploitation.

TV, from was sharing

who

his

held

one-party state socialism.

II

historic five-day visit.

Jan. 25 in the Plaza of the

The

That fact alone signaled what many hoped was the beginning of a transition after 40 years of

popemobile on a Havana street Jan. 21. Cuba had been preparing for months for the pope's

Mass

Jan. 21-25 trip.

Castro, for the first time,

— Cubans cheer as Pope John Paul

attended

Part of the pope's impact in Cuba was felt almost immediately, however. For the first time, tens of thousands of people gathered in public assemblies that were not sponsored or controlled by the state.

An archbishop blasted the government on national

very different ideas on religion and democracy.

his

who

has

Havana

Revolution.

pontiff and his host. President Fidel

public platform with a world leader

in

resident

He

think there will be change, but

I

to the country's international isolation.

Castro,

about to pass

are listening to the pope's words.

given us a hope, and

to the

may

is

"Cubans

Cuba

to agree.

visit to

end

CUBANS CHEER

In

Cuban Catholics seemed

—

HAVANA

said that

See Pope Urges Cuba, page 4

speak out about human

Pope's Visit Could Lead To Greater Freedom By

who

means

"Cuba

will

Cardinal John

J.

New York O'Connor said in Havana mid-

never be the same,"

way through the visit.

"It' s

not going to change

—

—

a papal altar.

Huge crowds waved Cuban and Vatican flags, cheered the pope and listened carefully to his sermons.

And with Castro in attendance, the pope spoke his mind on human rights, the church's legitimate aspirations, democratic ideals and moral shortcomings aggravated by government policies.

Free speech. Freedom of assembly. New ideas. In socialist Cuba, all this was unprecedented. For the church in particular, it was like finding a long-lost voice.

overnight," he said, but the "ultimate effect will be long-lasting."

See Greater Freedom, page 2

2

SPECIAL

to

& Herald

The Catholic News

January 30, 1998

Pope, Castro Meet Behind Closed Doors For Nearly An Hour

By JOHN THAVIS HAVANA (CNS) — Pope John Paul II and President Fidel Castro met for nearly an hour behind closed doors at Havana's presidential

palace for in

some

plain talk

on the church's

role

Cuba.

The one-on-one meeting

Jan.

22 was the

of the pope's five-day visit Caribbean nation. However, no one re-

political highlight

to the

of confidential," Vatican

spokesman

and

its

One issue was made pubhc. Navarro-Valls said that in parallel meetings, Vatican officials, at the

political terms, but

message to more operating space for the church

agencies.

pope's request, conveyed appeals from Cuban prisoners for clemency. Cuban

several

officials said they

Pope John Paul II greets Cuban President Fidel Castro at the end of Mass in the Plaza of the Revolution in Havana Jan. 25. Of the four public Masses celebrated by Pope John Paul II during his visit, Castro only attended the Havana

whose sainthood cause is being con-

Castro had looked forward to hosting the pope on

teacher and patriot

own

turf, and he seemed to enjoy the moment.

The 71 -year-old Cuban leader met the 77-year-old pontiff at the door and accompanied him down the gleaming halls of the presidential complex. The pope

sidered at the Vatican.

walked slowly with a cane, prompting Castro to ask how his leg was doing and how the pope was holding up in the heat. After introducing their respective aides, the two men posed for photographs, shaking hands and wearing big smiles.

eras covering the event.

"We

should be getting paid for

this,

of cameras flashed.

"Yes,

it's

a shame," the pontiff shot back.

When they emerged from their private encounter some 50 minutes later, their smiles seemed to have faded somewhat. They exchanged gifts, which were each carefully chosen.

"We racked our brains to figure out what to give you," Castro said as he gave the pope a copy of a 19thcentury biography of Father Felix Varela, a Cuban

Some Cuban The Pope

Is

(CNS)

— On

"This

so beautiful, everyone should see

The pope

it,"

Castro

TV

cam-

met with Castro's family members, including two sisters, both of them practicing Catholics. One of them said she had always wanted to emalso

brace the pope.

"Why left

not?" the pope said, and gave her a hug that

her in tears.

Navarro-Valls said the requests for clemency from an assortment of Cuban prisoners had reached the Vatican by fax and letter in the months preceding the visit.

He

said they included humanitarian and other

any of Cuba's were among them.

cases, but did not specify whether

mated 450

political prisoners

He

Cuban

said the

esti-

authorities agreed to consider

the requests seriously because of the "high moral stand-

ing" of the pope.

—

altar.

"Do you know who

a grassy knoll leading up

to the Plaza of the Revolution,

is

said and turned the mosaic toward national

Catholics Know Who 'More or Less'

ByAGOSTINO BONO HAVANA

The pope offered Castro a mosaic portrait of Christ.

but we're not

pope as hundreds

Pedro Hernandez and

his cousin, Raul, batted an inflated balloon with sticks.

They were waiting for Pope John Paul II's morning Mass to start Jan. 25.

On the balloon was an image of the Sacred Heart of Mary and the words "always faithful."

"Do you know what the image on the balloon is?"

14-year-old Pedro was asked.

"No," he answered.

"Do you know who the pope is?"

"The pope is the person who knows the most about the Catholic Church,*' replied Pedro.

Raul, 12, answered, "More or less."

The boys received the balloon on the bus that

brought them and the rest of their first Communion from their parish in Pinar del Rio, 90 miles west of Havana, to attend the Mass.

Elsewhere in the plaza, Jose Fernandez Valdes was class

selling peanuts.

"There he is," shouted the 66-year-old retired customs worker as he saw Pope John Paul.

"Are you here to sell peanuts or see the pope?" he was asked.

"Both," he said, glancing in the direction of the

The pope never spoke openly about a post-Castro he seemed to cast his thoughts and his audi-

the

pope

is?"

"Fidel Castro, himself, told us

who

the

pope

is.

He

humanitarian, intelligent and speaks many languages," said Fernandez. The retiree volunteered about himself that he goes to Mass "on some Sundays."

Ofelia Gonzalez, a retired teacher, came at 6 a.m. for the Mass scheduled at 9:30 a.m. "to give homage" to the pope.

"He is a very cultured man. He is well-known here through the media," she said.

"The pope can help us, but it is not necessary to wait for him. We must help each other," said Gonzalez, who added that she tries to get to Mass every Sunday.

Hilda Suarez and her family waved the Cuban and Vatican flags as the pope passed in his popemobile.

"We go to church every Sunday. We are practicing Catholics," Suarez said.

Her husband, Arturo Toros, said the pope is the pastor of hope and "brings a blessing to our country."

The 5 1 -year-old bus driver said the pope was speaking about important themes for the country such as famis

ily reunification.

"This

is

lacking here," he said.

—

—

in that direction. He said the church and young people should position themselves for building a society of justice and freedom "in the future" and "when the time comes." Castro, extremely sensitive to criticism, must have winced at that.

One of the pope's aims was to increase the space for public expression and social influence of the local church in Cuba, and he hammered this theme in sermons and talks. Meeting the country's bishops, he encouraged them to keep pressing for a greater role in education and the media, two sensitive areas.

There were subtler signals, too. During more than one meeting with Castro, the pope broke protocol and pulled Havana Cardinal Jaime Ortega Alamino to his

ences' hopes

would study the appeals with

getting anything," Castro joked to the

Valls.

era, but

service.

"great attention."

his

and prodded repeatedly democracy in Cuba. He used dropped them like seeds, not bombs, into the new ground he was breaking. He knew they needed nurturing and time to grow.

"This trip is about the future, and the pope is pointing the way," said Vatican spokesman Joaquin Navarrofor installation of real

— Cuba —

as he did in his Christmas

Mass in Havana Jan. 25, afdenouncing communism's faulty and hmited vision human dignity.

As expected, he called for respect for basic church

rights in all areas of society

Joaquin Navarro-Valls said afterward.

Before the visit, Vatican sources said they expected the pope would use the occasion to press for

of their victories must have been very different.

Castro played the gracious and ever-present host, and Vatican officials said he seemed genuinely fascinated by the pontiff. But the Cuban president could not pass up opportunities to defend his own legacy, his socialist revolution and his country's development. In this sense, he seemed to be looking backward.

The pope was clearly looking ahead.

"This is the time to start out on the new paths," he taste

ter

each other.

was

ers,

1

Castro and the pope, two highly charismatic leadcould express satisfaction after the visit. Yet the

told the nation during the

vealed exactly what the two leaders said to "It

Greater Freedom, from page

side.

"It

was

his

way

of saying to Castro: 'This

is

my

in Cuba. Don't think you can treat me one way and hftn another,'" said one Vatican official.

It should not be forgotten that the pope was evangelizing, not stumping for a political program. Twice he told Cubans bluntly that the church seeks no political power. Instead, he tried to lift Cubans' gaze above politics and above ideologies, to the Gospel of Christ.

"If the Master's call to justice, to service and to love is accepted as good news, then the heart is expanded, criteria are transformed and a culture of love and life is bom. This is the great change society needs and expects," he said during the Havana Mass.

Cuba's Catholics responded warmly and gave his talks thoughtful attention. On the last day, as the huge crowd in Havana interrupted his sermon with applause and cheers when it turned to themes of freedom, the sense of political awakening was palpable.

As the pope left the country, Vatican officials were pleased at the pope's impact, but worried that Castro may have difficulty convincing his underlings that it

man

was time

for reform.

"Castro does have admiration for the pope, and hei

thinks this visit

is

important. But his party apparatus

nervous and afraid," said one Vatican

One daily,

positive sign

was

that the

is

official.

Communist Party

Granma, responding

that there should

to the pope's calls, agreed be a "free space" for religious and

cultural contributions to national development.

Castro could take solace in the pope's parting speech, in which the pontiff sharply criticized the U.S. embargo of Cuba as "oppressive" and said the island should not be isolated. But in the same sentence, the pope censured Cuba's limitations on fundamental free-

doms and

its

depersonalizing treatment of individuals.

In the end, the

pope

left the

Cuban

leader and his

country with several historic religious moments,

some "new paths" coming months.

rable speeches and sider in the

memo-

to carefully con-

SPECIAL to The

January 30, 1998

For First Time In 40 Years, Cubans Have A Taste Of Free Assembly

By JOHN THAVIS SANTIAGO DE CUBA, Cuba (CNS)

-

-

Pope John

papacy brought Cubans a taste of massive crowds a noncommuforum for the first time in 40 years.

The result was a sense of festive and sometimes

Paul

II's traveling

free assembly, offering nist public

awkward

togetherness, along with important

moments

of political awakening.

For the most part, those attending the pope's Masses in four cities Jan. 22-25 were

more

tween the two situations. But in Havana, the echo of Poland seemed to come alive.

The pope sensed it, and you could see it in his face.

As his Jan. 25 sermon went on, the interruptions of applause and cheering grew longer and longer. At one point, he quoted from the Gospel about "setting at liberty those who are oppressed," and the crowd exploded.

The pope smiled, and he let it go on ... and on. He

interested in wit-

lic

places like Santa Clara,

They

where

his

came, they cheered,

human

rights

they prayed, and then

by respectful silence and polite applause.

One man in a crowd of 40,000 did shout out

policies.

they went

home

to ab-

sorb an unprecedented experience.

They did not chant political slogans, they

A giant mural of the Sacred Heart of Jesus overlooks several

did not raise protest banners and they did not embarrass the government.

hundred thousand people gathered for Mass with Pope John Paul in Havana Jan. 25. The service was held in Revolution Square and drew the largest crowd during the pope's fiveday visit to Cuba.

remarks on were met

something about politiit was a lone voice that faded

cal prisoners;

Cuba in

I

"The great majority of people are here for a religious experience, not a poone. This

is

not a political assembly," Jorge

Smith, a Cuban whose grandfather was an American,

pope arrived on the

said as the

altar in

Camaguey, be-

fore 50,000 cheering people.

But on the trip's final day, during a Mass in Havana's Plaza of the Revolution, the mood changed, and the pope connected with the crowd in a way that must have sent a chill through the country's communist authorities.

Suddenly the pope's words about freedom, his criticism of the state ideology and his defense of human rights prompted sustained applause, cheers and respectful chants.

The Mass did not

turn into a political rally,

but one had the feeling that free expression was finally getting a chance in the front

Havana

Call ity

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; with President Fidel Castro

sitting

row.

Before the trip, some commentators had compared to Poland, the pope's homeland, where his visits 1979-87 sent a spiritual and political charge through the country and eventually helped set the stage for the collapse of the communist regime.

Castro and even Vatican officials downplayed that parallel, saying there were too many differences be-

â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

hope they will."

But Marcos asked

article, citing his fear

"Maybe he

in

two

that his

name

not be used in an

of government reprisal.

years,

it

versus

a case

of infidel-

infallibility.

Last Wednesday, Pope John Paul landed in Cuba a historic visit to the island just 90 miles from

for

mainland U.S. On the tarmac, awaiting the papal plane,

were

Fidel Castro

and an army

journalists, including the American network crop.

cream

of

of the

Less than 24 hours later, the national entourage packed up, headed to Washington, D.C., salivating at the thought of an alleged White House sex

journalistic

scandal.

quickly.

II

Probably the strongest political language during the papal liturgies was pronounced Jan. 24 in Santiago de Cuba, not by the pope but by local Archbishop Pedro Meurice Estiu. In Cuba, the church has chosen the option for the poor, "and here the poorest are those who lack the precious gift of freedom," he said from the altar.

The archbishop complained of a process of depersonalization in Cuba, the result of "paternalism" a clear reference to Castro. He said that in Cuba, ideology substitutes for culture and patriotism is confused with a single party; these are main causes of internal and external exile, he said.

The archbishop's nationally televised words prompted applause and, it seemed, quiet amazement among the crowd. In Havana, a 24-yeai-old man named Marcos was following the talk on TV and said he realized at that moment that something was changing in Cuba.

"Many Cubans are thinking about it today," he said.

"I think people are going to take this message forward.

litical

In

That kind of reachad been missing in

faction with govern-

ment

Our Man

Media Disses Pope For White House Scandal

forum.

tion

& Herald 3

By Joann Keane

gaining part of the pub-

demonstrating dissatis-

News

Notebook

Editor's

knew Cuban Catholics were at that moment re-

nessing the faith than in

Catholic

you can use

my

full

name,"

said.

Adios papal coverage, buenos dias White House lawn. Make that good-bye historic reporting, hello

speculative schlock.

Once

again, an alleged indecorous action outweighs the outpouring of human emotion. The president's purported impropriety reduced the pope to sound bites. Not since the Holy Father returned to his Polish homeland has the national broadcast media rapt such attention. This papal event of global proportions became little more than a mention.

But alas, ratings drive the network bus.

This time, ratings validate an insatiable thirst for reports on Clinton's affairs, with viewers

measured

in millions.

One network spin doctor called the White House story a crisis, hoping to promote it as more than the scandal it is. He went on to say 'it [White House scandal] is a big enough story that doesn't need hype, doesn't need overtelling.' If that weren't so ambiguous, it would be worthy of a big Amen.This however, is the great paradox that shrouds the media. If a story does not call coverage, then why perpetuate a feeding frenzy on the White House lawn? And if that executive were true to his words, he would have left his highly paid

for extensive

national

A man approaching receive communion kisses the hand of Pope John Paul II during Mass Jan. 23

Camaguay, Cuba.

to

in

news crew

in

Cuba.

smacks of an uncanny irony of good versus evil. The sins of one outweigh the spiritual enlightening of many. Given a choice between Freddie Kruger or Bambi, the media skewers the little deer on an open pit, and settles in with Sadly, the scenario

razor sharp claws extended. will mark January 1 998 as a time another round of political sex and lies.

The journals may mark the days with a footnote ... the pope visited Cuba.

History

of yet

4 SPECIAL

The Catholic News

to

& Herald

January 30, 1998

Pope Criticizes Cuban

By AGOSTINO

—

BONO

Exiles for 'Useless Confrontations'

Domestically, the pope encouraged the bishops to

HAVANA (CNS) Pope John Paul II encouraged Cuban bishops to stretch their outreach into society and criticized Cuban exiles seeking "useless confron-

part of Cuba's identity and culture" and promotes the

development of people and

seek "a frank dialogue with the institutions of the state

integral

and the independent agencies of civil society" so that the church can serve others by meeting their social and

in society.

tations" with the

material needs as well as their spiritual ones.

letting "the

erate, peacefully

opportunities, programs and

"Respect for religious freedom must ensure the means by which these three dimensions of the church's mission can be carried out so that, in addition to worship, the church can devote herself to the proclamation of the truth of the Gospel, the defense of justice and peace, and the integral development of the human person," he emphasized.

"None of these dimensions should be restricted; one does not exclude the others, nor should one be emphasized at the cost of the others," he added.

Religious freedom is an "inalienable human right" and not "a permission dependent on contingent situations, political strategies or the will of authorities," he

Yet, working for integral development has been hampered because "limitations of recent years have

the

government of Fidel Castro.

These "sons and daughters of Cuba ... must coopand in a constructive and respectful way, in the nation's progress," said a Jan. 25 speech

given to the Cuban bishops in a private meeting.

The pope encouraged Cubans abroad to adopt "an atmosphere of positive dialogue and mutual understanding" in their activities.

"As much

as

is

possible and in cooperation with

other episcopates, help

them through your proclama-

tion of the highest spiritual values to be builders of

peace and harmony, of reconciliation and hope, and to practice a generous solidarity with their Cuban brothers and sisters most in need; thus they will demonstrate their profound attachment to their homeland," he urged the bishops.

The pope

instructed bishops to be "ministers of

reconciliation" so that "the people entrusted to you,

them

putting behind

the difficulties of the past, can

advance along the path to reconciliation among Cubans, without exception."

all

Pope Urges Cuba,

"As everyone knows, Cuba has a Christian soul," the pope said. "She

needs to open herself to the world, and the world needs to draw close to Cuba."

"This is the time to start out on the new paths called for by the times of renewal," he said.

The pope won more applause when he spoke passionately about the church' s commitment to the poor and suffering of the world. They should know the church will not betray them,

CHILDREN WITH POPE A group of Cuban children sing for Pope John Paul outside the papal nuncio's residence Jan. 22 in Havana, Cuba. The pope was on his historic five-day visit to the communist

and that "the pope in his heart and with his words of encouragement, embraces all who suffer injustice," he said, his voice nearly raised to a

island nation.

shout.

photo from Reuters

II

Cuban-Born

hours with his cousins was worth it.

"I was very excited," he said. "I won't be able to digest the emotions for a while." the priest's first time home since leaving in He saw about 14 cousins in his Jan. 23 visit to. hometown of Cienfuegos, 150 miles southeast of

was

1962. his

Havana.

"Many others had gone to Santa Clara for the paMass, so we couldn't see each other," he added.

Father Alvarez took 28 pounds of medicine, mostly nonprescription drugs such as pain-relievers and fe-

pal

ver-reducers, for his family. scription medicine cific relatives,

He

also arrived with pre-

and prescription eyeglasses for spegifts in a country where these

welcome

are hard to find.

"Many Cubans send

eyeglass prescriptions to who then seek ways of sending them back because it's a long wait to get them here," said Father Alvarez, pastor of St. Mark

friends and relatives in the United States,

Church

in Hyattsville,

Md.

meal in his honor, which Father Alvarez said gave him mixed feelings.

"I know the great sacrifices they have gone through In return, his family served a

They had to get up early, stand in line and use money they had saved," he said.

"They knew I was coming since early December and they began saving" for the meal of rice with seafood, fried bananas and beer, he said.

Father Alvarez also began collecting presents and letters to take back to the United States for CubanAmericans living there.

In Havana, a young woman gave Father Alvarez a musical clock and a button with Pope John Paul II's face and the dates of his Cuban visit. It was for her uncle, a parishioner at St. Mark.

"There is a lot of metal here. I hope this won't get you into trouble at the airport," she said.

The priest smiled and said, "I'll just wait and see what happens."

Father Alvarez said he left Cuba under trying cirto get the food.

Father Julio

Alvarez, the eight-hour round-trip drive to spend three

It

he noted.

The pope encouraged Catholic lay people to work "with other people of good will, to seek solutions to the various moral, social, political, economic, cultural

and

spiritual

problems facing society." all citizens, have the right and the

Catholics, "like

duty to contribute to their country' s progress," he added. greater preparation of Catholics

so that "through civic dialogue and responsible participation

new

areas can be found for the action of

the laity."

He

listed fighting abortion

and divorce

as specific

fields of action.

1

The pope's remarks about "neo-hberalist" forms erence to global lending institutions, he criticized prothat impose impossible economic conditions on poorer countries as the price of further economic assis-

grams tance.

"In the international community, small

we

thus see a

number of countries growing exceedingly rich

at

the cost of the increasing impoverishment of a great

number of other countries: As a result, the wealthy grow wealthier, while the poor grow even poorer," he said.

Castro, dressed in a dark suit and liturgy with respect.

tie,

followed the

At the exchange of the sign of

peace, he shook hands, smiled and chatted with

of the bishops and priests

The pope looked

fit

who

organized the

many

visit.

throughout the Mass, the plaza he greeted the Cu-

and

alert

and shortly before he left ban president personally. The two were to meet once more, at a farewell ceremony later in the day.

Priest Returns For First Time Since 1962

By AGOSTINO BONO For Cuban-bom HA'VANA (CNS)

—

"The church in Cuba seems strained by the growing numbers of those in need of her various services,"

of capitalism were equally strong. In an apparent ref-

to preserve virtue in society.

—

the church poorer in material resources and per-

sonnel," the pope added.

from page

"every people needs to be religious"

CNS

made

oppressed go free."

The pope favored

stressed.

The pope asked for greater church access to the communications media and the ability to develop its own communications operations.

"The secular state should not fear but rather appreciate the church's moral and educational role," he said.

The pope also noted that "the Catholic faith is truly

their participation

He quoted the prophet Isaiah, who said this includes

cumstances; his brother was a political prisoner.

But he saw returning to his country for the pope's Jan. 21-25 trip as an important step for him as a priest and as a Cuban. Father Alvarez was part of a pilgrimage organized by the Northeast Hispanic Catholic Center in New York.

"I

am Cuban-bom.

people.

I

just

"As a

want

priest, I

I

want

to see

my

family,

my

be a part of it," he said. see this as an important aspect of

to

my ministry to evangelizing, teach and spread the word of hope," he added.

"The presence of the Holy Father

much hope

to the entire

portant event for the

church here.

is

It's

Cuban church," he

bringing so quite an im-

said.

The pope, who lived under communism in Poland, "brought back peace and harmony" there and can help do the same in Cuba, he said.

Regarding the return of many Cubans living abroad for the visit, the priest said, "We're becoming one those in exile and the people here. We are seeing faith come back alive."

Father Alvarez said the papal trip could also have political implications by helping end Cuba's isolatioa because of the U.S. economic embargo.

Regarding opposition by some Cuban- Americans to Cubans making the pilgrimage. Father Alvarez said: "I understand the Cuban- American feelings in Miami and their feelings of solidarity. Maybe if I were in Miami, I would think differently."

But the pope' s visit "is a turning point already," he

—

said.

"I firmly believe

we

should live the historic mothat is love, under-

ment and go on with the Gospel standing, forgiveness," he said.