NEWS FROM THE DIOCESE OF KNOXVILLE
B section Bearing the Light of Christ - Building a Civilization of Love
Father Willey rescues family in burning home The All Saints associate pastor was on his afternoon run in Cleveland when he spotted the flames By Bill Brewer
BILL BREWER
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ob No. 1 for a Catholic priest is to save souls as he celebrates the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass and administers the sacraments, primarily the Eucharist. There are occasions when priests are called on to save lives, too. That is just what happened to Father Michael Willey on July 30. The associate pastor of All Saints Parish in Knoxville was taking an afternoon run not too far from St. Thérèse of Lisieux Church in Cleveland, where his family lives, when tragedy struck and divine intervention stepped in. Father Willey, with a decided air of modesty, agreed to share his story after considerable prodding by All Saints pastor Father Doug Owens and others. “Not all superheroes wear capes,” Father Owens said. In this case, he happens to wear vestments most days and in his spare time tennis shoes, running shorts, a T-shirt, and a smart watch. Father Willey explained that on his days off he likes to visit his family in Bradley County and go whitewater kayaking on the Ocoee River. July 30 promised to be not too different. “I got there a little bit early, and I needed to get a run in. So, I went for a run like I’ve done hundreds of times there,” he shared. “I run between where our house was and the house my grandmother used to
‘Not all superheroes wear capes’ Father Michael Willey sits in a front pew at All Saints Church in Knoxville, where he serves as an associate pastor. live in, which was maybe two-anda-half miles away. It would be a five-mile loop.” Because of the handy runner’s watch Father Willey wears while getting his miles in, he knows the exact time he happened upon the residential fire. “It was 3:53 in the afternoon. I came down this long, straight road. And I noticed a lot of smoke coming
from behind this house. I thought to myself that it seems like they have a pretty good fire burning in their backyard, which isn’t that unusual. “But it looked like it was close to the house. And as I got closer, it was an older trailer, it looked to me like flames licking the back porch that I could just see from around the corner of the house,” Father Willey recalled.
And that’s when his instinct to act kicked in. “I ran up into the driveway to get a better look, and sure enough their deck was on fire. At that moment, the first thought that came to my mind was I need to call 911. I wasn’t running with a phone on me, so I had no way to contact the first responders. That was the first Father Willey continued on page B2
Bishop’s Very Special Day helps families connect ‘Together with Jesus, we can do anything,’ Bishop Beckman says in his homily at St. John Neumann By Bee Goodman
BEE GOODMAN
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ome rooms are built for everyone, and some rooms are built for a few people in particular. The gymnasium at St. John Neumann School in Farragut was the second kind on the Bishop’s Very Special Day, and every choice made in it, down to the volume of the music, was made with someone specific in mind. Bishop Mark Beckman celebrated the Mass that opened the day, and almost nothing about it was left to default. Sign-language interpreters stood near the sanctuary the whole time, translating the readings and prayers as they were spoken. The music ministry pared itself down to a handful of instruments, keeping the sound gentle rather than full. Incense, a fixture of most Masses, didn’t appear at all. None of it was an afterthought. That was the point. Bishop’s Very Special Day is a diocesan celebration for individuals with special needs and their families. The day begins with Mass, followed by skits, arts and crafts, music, and lunch. In his homily, Bishop Beckman returned to a memory from his years as a pastor, when he once asked a group of schoolchildren at Mass if they knew what a “yoke” was. Their answer was the one he expected: an egg yolk. But he had something else in mind, the wooden yoke Jesus references in the Gospel, the kind still used in parts of the world where
Story time Bishop Mark Beckman stands with Martha Crutchfield as she reads a Bible Stories book at one of the activity tables during the Bishop’s Very Special Day. The bishop visited many of the tables to meet his special friends. two animals are harnessed side by side to pull a plow. “Come to me, all you who are weary... and I will give you rest,” he said, recalling the passage. “Take my yoke upon your shoulders and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble of heart.” Bishop Beckman described picturing himself carrying that yoke
alongside Jesus, whatever the burden happens to be. “Together with Jesus, we can do anything,” he told the congregation, before turning to John the Baptist, who once doubted from prison whether Jesus truly was who he claimed to be, and sent followers to ask Him directly. Jesus’ answer, the bishop noted, pointed to
the blind seeing, prisoners set free, and the brokenhearted healed, proof enough for John of a gentleness he hadn’t expected. Bishop Beckman closed by asking the congregation to let John the Baptist’s example guide their own response that day. “Each one of us today, He’s inviting us to Very Special Day continued on page B2
thing in my head. “I turned, and the place I was closest to was the next-door house. I was closer to that house than the house that was on fire. I ran up and knocked on the door forcefully and a guy came out. He later said I about gave him a heart attack by knocking on the door so loudly. I told him, ‘Hey, the house next to you is on fire. You need to call 911.’ Then, I said I was going to go back over and make sure no one was in the house,” Father Willey told the next-door neighbor. “So, I went over to the house and did the same thing. I banged on the door forcefully, and this time I let myself in. I heard a guy respond, ‘Hey, what’s going on?’ as I’m opening the door,” Father Willey continued, noting that the trailer door was not locked. Father Willey, who is 30, said when he walked into the residence, there was a man younger than him sitting in the front room with three children. “They were eating either a late lunch or an early dinner. These were little kids. I think the oldest was about 6. And one of them was 2 or younger,” the young priest said. “I went over to the man and said, ‘Your house is on fire.’ And he said, ‘My house is on fire?’ And I said, ‘Yes, it’s on fire in the back.’ They had no idea the house was on fire. “He is instantly on his phone calling 911. We run out and go around to the side, and he sees the wood deck that is on fire. He is freaking out. As he is calling 911, both of us are trying to get the kids away from the house,” Father Willey said. He believes extended family lived in the trailer and one or more of them were Catholic. The wife and mother, who had been at work when the fire occurred, returned home that afternoon. Father Willey’s quick action to alert the resident likely averted a much worse tragedy. “The place had been there as long as I can remember, at least 20 years. I was on that road even before my family moved to Cleveland because my grandmother lived there and my mom grew up right around the corner,” he remembered. “The man who lived there and I had the thought that if the fire department could get there the house could be saved. It was less than a minute from the time I first knocked on the door to when flames were jumping out of the roof. It went from the deck being on fire to the whole house being on fire. It went up almost instantly. It was as if one second the deck was on fire to the next second everything is on fire,” he noted. The resident placed the children in a pickup truck next to the burning dwelling and backed it up because of the intense heat coming from the fire. By this time, a police officer was on the scene but the fire department had not yet arrived. “I ended up having to carry one of the kids away from the house. I’m trying to keep the kid calm as the whole house was going up in flames. Eventually the fire department arrived. But by the time they got there, the whole house was already on fire. It was a total loss. Very Special Day continued from page B1
come to Him,” he said, “and find there the true refreshment that our soul is seeking.” From there the day moved into lunch, then into something with considerably more noise: a pep rally called Rally for Jesus, led musically by Katie Helm, a volunteer who has been part of these events for years. Around the room, several activity tables waited for anyone who needed a quieter minute, each one designed with sensory sensitivities in mind, so that stepping away from the rally never meant stepping away from the day. This year the event carried a new name behind it. The Diocese of Knoxville Special Friends (DKSF) sponsored the Very Special Day for the first time as a ministry in its own right. It didn’t start as anyone’s grand plan. According to longtime volunteer Julie Radachy, it grew the way a lot of good things in a parish grow: out of people who had B2 n SEPTEMBER 2026
BILL BREWER
Father Willey continued from page B1
Mass of thanksgiving Father Michael Willey celebrates his first Mass at St. Thérèse of Lisieux Church in Cleveland on June 9, 2024, following his priestly ordination that spring. St. Thérèse pastor Father Mike Nolan (right) and Deacon Steve Ratterman look on. “It was pretty dramatic. There was a propane tank in the back yard that blew up. There were power lines falling from the house and sparking. Glass was exploding. The firefighters were able to get the fire under control. And while the house was a complete loss, no one was hurt, so that was a good thing,” the priest said. The resident and Father Willey shared the thought of trying to go back in the residence and retrieve belongings. “He told me afterward that he tried to run in but instantly had to turn around because of how hot it was,” Father Willey said. God’s timing was not lost on the All Saints associate pastor, who was reticent to talk about the incident. “I’m really glad I got there when I did because thinking about it afterward, the biggest thing was just being there at that exact time. Because if I had been there a couple of minutes earlier, then maybe the fire in the back hadn’t been as big and I wouldn’t have noticed it,” he said. “Definitely, if I had been there two minutes later, it would have been too late to do anything about it. There’s a way in which I feel like I didn’t do all that much other than just be in the right place at the right time, which I think you can definitely see providence in that,” he added. He is sure God’s hand was guiding him. “There are so many things that have to go right for that timing to be what it was. I hadn’t even planned on running that day. I was really tempted to just go take a nap when I got down there because I was sort of tired. But I needed to get the run in, so I thought I’m just going to go get this over with. Obviously, I’m glad I did,” he shared. Father Willey said he reached out to pastor Father Mike Nolan at St. Thérèse of Lisieux to see if there were any resources that could be shared with the family as the young priest returned to his own family to change clothes. The All Saints associate pastor returned to the site of the fire to speak to the family and offer them as-
sistance. This time he was wearing his clerics to let them know he was a priest and that it was the Catholic Church extending a helping hand. He noted that the residents were being taken care of by family and did not need the resources that he and Father Nolan had discussed. “They were taken care of in the immediate aftermath and had a place to go, and they had a bunch of stuff donated by people,” said Father Willey, who noted that a GoFundMe account was set up for the family. “They were very grateful that I had knocked on the door.” The young priest, who is an avid runner and whitewater kayaker, believes it is part of his character as both an individual and as a priest to get involved when the situation arises. And as evidence of his calm under pressure, Father Willey, who wears the runner’s watch to monitor his distance, pace, route, and heart rate during a run, said his watch indicated that his heart rate did not fluctuate a bit during the fiery event. He never considered running past the fire and reporting it farther along during his run. He would have entered the burning house whether or not anyone answered the door, even if it had meant kicking in the door. “It was more dangerous than I realized it was. The fact that I was banging on the door and letting myself into the house before getting any response from the people inside leads me to believe I would have kicked the door in had no one answered,” Father Willey said. He emphasized that the fire spread so quickly that the trailer was fully engulfed in flames before the fire department could extinguish them. As ready as Father Willey was for the priesthood when he was ordained on June 8, 2024, St. Meinrad Seminary couldn’t have prepared him to rush into a burning building and get everyone out. “This was never covered in any of our Wednesday conferences or anything like that. But I do think that part of seminary formation and part
of the experience of being a priest prepares you and then places you in leadership roles obviously. I think that plays into taking action and not waiting for someone else to do something. It doesn’t all come from kayaking,” he shared with a smile. Going forward, Father Willey believes the recent harrowing experience will impact him as a priest for years to come. “What I was reflecting on the most immediately afterward and continually, too, since then, was how the timing was just perfect for me to be where I was when I was. If it had been a minute or two either side, it would have been much different. As a priest, I am often aware of how God uses me as an instrument in a way that really isn’t about me,” he said. “All I did was go for a run like I do most days. God put me in the right place at the right time to be able to help this family,” he added. What is Father Willey’s most important takeaway for people who learn of his encounter? Trust in God. “That would be first.” “Providence is real and acts in our lives in concrete ways and in ways that we may not be able to recognize as it’s happening,” he shared. “I think providence was definitely at play in regard to what happened on my day off. To realize that God can act in those everyday ways is something that can broaden our perspective of how God acts in the world.” Another key takeaway for people is to not be afraid to take action. “If you see something, don’t wait for somebody else to do something because there might not be time for that. In this case, there wasn’t time for that,” he noted. Father Willey is grateful for the support he has at All Saints Parish. A number of parishioners pressed him to share his story. “I’m very lucky to be here. This is a great parish for a first assignment, and I’ve been fortunate to be here for two years now. I think we are continually getting better and moving in a good direction,” he said. ■
already found something they loved and wanted more of it. “The DKSF was founded organically as past participants in Bishop’s Very Special Day wanted more opportunities to connect during the year,” Ms. Radachy said. The ministry now runs events throughout the year, with a schedule posted on the diocesan website, but Ms. Radachy is quick to point out that the calendar of events isn’t really what the ministry is for. It’s for what happens at the events. “Having these events allows those with special needs and their families in our diocese to connect and enjoy time together,” she said. “Our special friends have the opportunity to make friendships with others in attendance, and their families are able to connect, develop friendships, and offer support to each other as well.” She sees the diocese’s role in it as a two-way exchange rather than a service handed down. “The diocese as a whole is able to offer their gifts
and talents to make the event successful,” Ms. Radachy said, pointing to this year’s ASL interpreters and musicians, along with Ms. Helm and the volunteers who kept the day running. “They helped make the Bishop’s Very Special Day extra special.” What made this year different wasn’t just DKSF’s name on the sponsorship. It was the sense, said Ms. Radachy, that the ministry is still growing into what its participants want it to be, one event and one conversation at a time. The Bishop’s Very Special Day has always drawn families back year after year, but DKSF exists now to carry that connection past a single afternoon and into the rest of the calendar. That showed up in small ways throughout the day. Volunteers who had served at past Bishop’s Very Special Days returned this year, some in the same roles, some in new ones. Ms. Radachy herself attended with a bit of company: her dog, Bella, a certified H.A.B.I.T. (Human-
Animal Bond in Tennessee) therapy dog, making her first appearance at the event. Ms. Radachy described Bella’s role there simply: “She is a calming presence for and shares God’s love with those who have special needs. She will patiently wait for people to pet her if they so desire, and she knows just who needs her and for how long.” Moving quietly through the crowd, Bella offered the kind of company that doesn’t need words. But the day’s real center stayed exactly where it started, in a Mass built around the people it was meant for, and in a room afterward that never stopped moving. Among the rally, the lunch tables, and the quieter sensory stations along the wall, there was no single way to spend the Bishop’s Very Special Day. There were only the ways each person there chose for themselves, and a diocese that had spent the whole day making sure that choice was possible. ■
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Bishop’s Very Special Day
A joyful noise A favorite part of the Bishop’s Very Special Day is the “Pep Rally for Jesus.” Katie Helm (top photo) and volunteers gather to sing and dance in worship. This year, Bishop Mark Beckman joined the celebration by picking up a pair of cymbals. Also seen in the photos are the bishop, St. John Neumann pastor Father Mark Schuster, Deacon Fredy Vargas, and servers at the Mass celebrated as part of the Very Special Day. See the story that begins on page B1.
Photos by Bee Goodman
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Parish notes Holy Spirit, Soddy-Daisy Monsignor Al Humbrecht’s next book study will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17, at the church. The book is Animal Farm by George Orwell. To register, call the church at 423-332-5300 or e-mail hscc_parish@holyspirittn.com. St. Bridget, Dayton The Women’s Council resumed its monthly meetings on Sept. 5. The group is planning for its annual fall bazaar, with the dates to be finalized soon. The Knights of Columbus are sponsoring the annual parish picnic on Saturday, Oct. 17, at Fox Lookout Farm in Decatur, home of parishioners Pat and Barbara Bisson. The picnic will follow a 5:30 p.m. vigil “Mass in the Barn.” The Knights will provide the main course with the Women’s Council assisting with serving. Everyone is asked to bring a side dish or dessert. Religious-education classes began on Sept. 13. St. Jude, Chattanooga The Holy Family Ministry for families with younger children has a picnic scheduled for 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19, at Camp Columbus in Hixson. The annual Trivia Night, sponsored by Knights of Columbus Council 8576, will take place at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19, in Siener Hall. Cost is $50 for a table of up to eight people. Bring your own food, snacks, and drinks. Ages 21 and up only. Registration forms are in the outer vestibule. Online registration is available at stjudechattanooga.org/ news/trivia-night. St. Jude’s Cub Scout Pack 3172, open to all kindergartners through fifth-graders in the parish and school, will have its first meeting of the fall for returning Cub Scouts and new members from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 21, in Siener Hall. The meeting will have a theme celebrating America’s 250th birthday. Contact Cubmaster Zach McCarty at 423-987-7339 or ZachEagle@ mac.com for more details. The second annual St. Jude Fall Festival is set for 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 24. The parish is planning for its 13th annual Craft Fair from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 21, in the Hofstetter Gym. More than 45 local crafters and artisans will take part, offering items that include stained glass, jewelry, art, pottery, homemade breads, canned goods, and more. Vendor registration forms may be found in the outer vestibule or at stjudechattanooga.org. St. Stephen, Chattanooga The parish is holding a Women’s Welcome Retreat on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 19-20. St. Stephen’s parish picnic will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 24. The Knights of Columbus awarded its Notre Dame High School scholarship recently to Noelle Hardy. The council also named Ken Buss as Knight of the month and John and Debbie Chenkus as family of the month. Anniversaries: Ed and Florence Cerantonio (61), Tom and Nancy Bruno (60), Allan and Darlene Lacy (59), Ron and Myrtle Englert (57), Jim and Ann Simms (57), Tom and Debbie DeMatteo (53), James and Eileen Delaney (52), John and Debra Certo (35), Tom and Traci Smelas (15)
Cumberland Mountain Deanery Blessed Sacrament, Harriman Bishop Mark Beckman confirmed Alice Humphreys, Evelyn Humphreys, Remi Raymond, Madilynn Sandoz, and Mario Dias on Aug. 26 at Blessed Sacrament. B4 n SEPTEMBER 2026
A nine-week women’s Bible study on The Case for Jesus by Brant Pitre will start on Thursday, Sept. 17. Participants can attend either a noon to 2 p.m. or 6 to 7:30 p.m. meeting on Thursdays. Sign up in the narthex. Call Sarah Garcia at 865-200-9716 for more information. The Social, Spirituality, and Service young-adult group is having a boardgame event after coffee and doughnuts on Sunday, Sept. 27, in the parish hall. St. Francis of Assisi, Fairfield Glade The Council of Catholic Women held an afternoon social in the parish hall on Aug. 12. The parish’s St. Francis of Assisi Jubilee celebration included activities for young children on Aug. 15. The GriefShare Support Group invites and encourages those who have lost loved ones to join them in a 13-week recovery group. Sessions are held from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Mondays in the Resource Center and will continue through Nov. 16. The program includes a weekly video, a workbook, and group discussion. To register or learn more, call Larry Helm at 563-940-5201 or Reene Petro at 614-352-4997.
COURTESY OF BRIDGET WIKIDAL (2)
Chattanooga Deanery
Father Daniel Cooper is holding a Duc in Altum (“put out into the deep”) monthly gatherings from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on Thursdays, in the parish hall. Each session explores the foundations of the Catholic faith and its history, practices, and meaning while guiding participants into a deeper relationship with God.
Bishop Beckman installs Father Boettner as pastor at Our Lady of Lourdes Bishop Mark Beckman visited Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in South Pittsburg to install Father David Boettner as pastor on Sept. 5. Knights of Columbus from the greater Chattanooga area were on hand to provide an honor guard. In the top photo are (from left) Andy Wikidal, Kevin Olley, Thomas Campbell, Bishop Beckman, Raleigh Cooper, Father Boettner, and Victor Williams. At left, Deacon Hicks Armor assists Bishop Beckman during the installation Mass. Father Boettner is also pastor of Shepherd of the Valley Parish in Dunlap.
The parish will offer a Bible Timeline: The Story of Salvation study in the parish hall at 9 a.m. on Mondays beginning on Sept. 21. The house at St. Francis of Assisi’s Kobonal Haiti Mission continues to rise, block by block, in honor of pastor Father Michael Woods’ 60th ordination anniversary. See the July issue of The East Tennessee Catholic for details. The CCW thanks those who donated 440 Boxes of Joy to mission children who may be receiving a Christmas gift for the first time. A truck will be sending them out on Nov. 16. Those who like to cook can participate in an ongoing service in the parish to prepare dinners for families who are participating in mentoring service through Empower Upper Cumberland. Cumberland Fellowship Church in Crossville hosts the service. Call Kathy Jordan for information at 612-718-1370. The parish Ministry Resource Center is open before and after Mass with more than 40 ministries to offer. Anniversaries: Roger and Sally Vachon (69), Robert and Marslia Takac (60), John and Mary Anne Kieck (60), Kenneth and Sharon Tripoli (59), Dale and Sharon Yaeger (59), Gerald and Carol Bonick (58), Michael and Cheryl Fries (57), Roger and Marcie Soprych (57), R. William and Judith Sundstrom (57), Michael and Wendy LeBert (55), John and Kathryn Upp (54), Michael and Nancy Barta (52), Dominic and Anita Giunta (50), Ken and Pat Neyens (45), Richard and Kathy Jordan (45), Henry and Pamela McCarthy (30), Matt and Elaine Retz (30), Troy and Kristin Berning (30), Thomas and Arlene Simmons (15), Brian and Susan Topping (15)
COURTESY OF KIMBERLY TOBY (2)
Food Fest & Ministry Fair at St. Patrick raises $17,000 St. Patrick Parish in Morristown hosted an End of Summer Food Fest & Ministry Fair on the weekend of Aug. 23. The event raises funds for religiouseducation programs and to support the parish. The St. Patrick Hispanic and Vietnamese ministries prepared a vast variety of delicious cultural dishes and beverages. The generosity of the ministry groups made this year’s event the most successful to date, raising about $17,000. The parish expressed its gratitude for all of the helping hands from its “Shamrock Flock” that made it possible and the parishioners and visitors who supported the event. The fair included inflatables and treats for children.
St. John Neumann, Farragut The senior ministry is having a movie night on Sunday, Sept. 20, as they view Heaven in Stone and Glass, based on Bishop Robert Barron’s book of the same name that is subtitled Experiencing the Spirituality of the Great Cathedrals. The group will meet at 5:30 p.m. at the Regal Pinnacle theater in Turkey Creek before the movie starts at 6. Contact Steve at 865-308-3436 or stephenbehnke2@gmail.com for more information. The vocations ministry is holding a Marriage Talk & Date Night from 6 to Parish notes continued on page B8
COURTESY OF RALEIGH COOPER
Knights hold East Tennessee Kickoff meeting at St. Thomas the Apostle The Knights of Columbus held an East Tennessee Kickoff meeting recently at St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Lenoir City. Council 8576 from Chattanooga received the State Deputy and chaplain awards. From left are Gary Gabor, former Grand Knight; Lee Norris, Grand Knight; Karl Nesmith, district deputy; Raleigh Cooper, deputy Grand Knight; Thomas Campbell, membership director; Nick Shank; and Eric Pelton, State Deputy.
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Calendar Bishop Mark Beckman invites young adults ages 18-35 to explore “Encountering Jesus in the Gospels” at meetings from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on selected Tuesdays at the Diocese of Knoxville Chancery. The series began Sept. 8 and continues Sept. 22 and 29 and Oct. 6 and 20, with dates subject to change because of the bishop’s schedule. More dates will follow. Attendees are invited to bring their own beverages and snacks. Register at dioknox.org/ encountering-jesus-updates. The diocesan Office of Vocations is holding a Men’s Discernment Group for men 18 or older interested in discerning whether God is calling them to the priesthood. The group will be hosted by Father Mark Schuster and Father Arthur Torres from 9 a.m. to noon on fourth Saturdays in the St. John Paul II Conference Room at the Chancery office in Knoxville, with the next meeting Sept. 26. If you are interested in joining the Men’s Discernment Group, fill out the form at forms. office.com/r/CmSwudiVnf or e-mail vocations@dioknox.org. There will be a Zoom option for those not in the Knoxville area. The Diocese of Knoxville’s new Special Friends ministry is sponsoring a sensory-friendly Mass on the last Saturday of each month. The next liturgy is at 4 p.m. on Sept. 26 in the chapel at Knoxville Catholic High School. The ministry provides support and resources to those with special needs and their caregivers. Additional sensory-friendly Masses are set for 4 p.m. on Oct. 31 and Nov. 28 at KCHS. For more information, e-mail DKSF@dioknox.org. “Lead in His Image,” a diocesan retreat for all men, is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 24, in Cathedral Hall at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus in Knoxville. Deacon Bob Hunt will speak on “The Role of Men as Fathers & Spiritual Leaders.” The day will begin with Mass at 8:05 a.m., followed by a continental breakfast at 8:30 and an opening prayer at 9. The first presentation, on “The Fatherhood of God,” will start at 9:10 a.m., and the second presentation, on “The Fatherhood of the Saints,” will begin at 9:55. Lunch will be at 11 a.m. Additional presentations will be on “The Domestic Church” at 12:30 p.m. and “Practical Ideas for the Catholic Family” at 12:45. Smallgroup discussion will follow all four presentations. A session on a Catholic Charities of East Tennessee Pregnancy Help Center project is planned for 1:30 p.m., with a closing prayer at 2:20 and dismissal at 2:30. To see a detailed schedule and learn how to register, visit dioknox.org/events/lead-in-hisimage. Learn more about Deacon Hunt at deacon bobretreats.com. Young adults ages 18-35 are invited to Theology on Tap at Pretentious Beer Co., 131 S. Central St. in Knoxville, at 6 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 18. Father Danny Herman will discuss the Catholic answer to “once saved, always saved.” Contact Mary Iverson with any questions at maryiver1@ gmail.com. Bishop Mark Beckman will celebrate a Mass with young adults of the diocese at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 20, at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. After Mass, dinner will be available for purchase from food trucks outside. Register or view flyers in English and Spanish at dioknox.org/events/ young-adult-mass. The Knox County chapter of Tennessee Right to Life will host its annual Celebrate Life Banquet from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 24, at Bridgewater Event Center in Knoxville. Dr. George Delgado, a pioneer in abortion-pill reversal, will be the featured speaker. Cost to attend is $50, and sponsorship opportunities are available. To make reservations, contact the chapter at 865-689-1339 or trlknox@prolifeknox.com. The 28th annual St. Jude Golf Classic benefiting St. Jude School in Chattanooga is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 25, at Creeks Bend Golf Club in TH E EAST T E N N E S S E E C AT HO L I C
Hixson. The tournament, co-sponsored by Knights of Columbus Council 8576, benefits the school’s Classroom Adoption Program and the ministries of the Knights. Shotgun starts will be held for an 8 a.m. round and for a 1 p.m. round. Check-in begins at 7 and 11 a.m. for those rounds. Lunch will be served to players in both rounds, and there will be snacks, drinks, and dinner at the end of the afternoon round. Sponsorship levels are available at Eagle ($2,500), birdie ($1,000), or par ($850) levels. Four sponsorships of $300 each are available for the longest-drive and closest-to-the-pin contests. Hole sponsorships are $150 each and a dinner/awards reception sponsorship is $750. Individual golfers may register for $150 and foursomes for $600. To register an individual or a team, the deadline is Monday, Sept. 21. To become a sponsor or make a donation, visit mysjs.ejoinme.org/ classic2026 or contact Mary Jungels at 423-987-4147 or jungelsm@mysjs. com. The Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus will host the Scruffy City Orchestra at 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, part of the Cathedral Concert Series. Under the direction of Ace Edewards, the musicians will present a concert themed “Nordisk Skjonnhet” (“Nordic Beauty”). The evening will feature solo performances by concerto competition winners: Eliana Kovácová, violinist, in the high-school category, will perform Violin Concerto No. 3 in B minor, Opus 61, by Camille SaintSaëns; and Jackson Sharp, cellist, in the young-adult category, will perform Cello Concerto No. 1 in A minor by Saint Saëns. The orchestra will also perform Niels W. Gade’s “Hamlet” Overture, Opus 37, and Johan Svendsen’s Symphony No. 2. Admission to the concert is free, but seating is limited. Doors open one hour before the concerts. Tickets are available via the Eventbrite link at shcathedral.org/cathedral-concert-series. The events will also be livestreamed, recorded, and archived with access available at m.youtube.com/c/ SacredHeartCathedralKnoxvilleTN. Following the Tennessee bishops’ statement on immigration enforcement and the dignity of migrants (dioknox. org/news/tenn-bishops-on-immigration-enforcement-dignity-of-migrants) and the U.S. bishops’ special message on immigration (www.usccb. org/news/2025/us-bishops-issuespecial-message-immigrationplenary-assembly-baltimore), the Diocese of Knoxville will host a regional gathering on the Church’s response to migration from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 30, at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. The gathering, themed “Deepening Our Moral Witness,” serves the dioceses in Tennessee, Kentucky, North Carolina, Alabama, Georgia, West Virginia, and Virginia. The day will include training and essential information on Catholic social teaching on migration, solidarity with immigrant communities in a time of mass deportations, communication strategies, and diocesan and parish planning. Bishop Mark Beckman will celebrate the noon Mass and, along with Bishop John Stowe, OFM Conv, of the Diocese of Lexington, Ky., will give a presentation at the event. Catholic Charities workers and volunteers, parish leaders, leaders of social ministries, those in Catholic health care or Catholic education, members of communications teams, and those serving in Hispanic and multicultural ministries are invited to participate. Registration is $25 and includes breakfast and lunch. If financial support is needed, e-mail Monica Andrews at mandrews@hopeborder. org. Register or learn about hotel arrangements at dioknox.org/events/ deepening-our-moral-witness. Knoxville Catholic High School is holding its 17th annual Community Tailgate from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 2, before the Fighting Irish’s homecoming game against Ensworth. The event features tailgate food, games, face painting, inflatables, and more. Alumni, families, friends, and fans are welcome to attend. Advance Calendar continued on page B8
COURTESY OF DEACON HICKS ARMOR
Bishop confirms five at St. Catherine Labouré in Copperhill Bishop Mark Beckman confirmed (from left) Christian Cruz Alvarez, Alberto Aguilar Garcia, Kaya Chavez Garcia, Yaneli Alonso Leal, and Sofia Espinoza Leal on Aug. 1 at St. Catherine Labouré Church in Copperhill. Pastor Father Andres Cano (left) and Deacon Hicks Armor are pictured with the bishop and the youth.
COURTESY OF JANET SPRAKER
St. Bridget Knights of Columbus install new officers The Knights of Columbus at St. Bridget Parish in Dayton installed new officers on July 18 following the 5:30 p.m. vigil Mass. From left are (front row) St. Bridget pastor Father Jim Vick, Bob Patterson, and Bill Ward; (middle row) Steve Thorn, district deputy Karl Nesmith, Dan Smith, and John Kartz; and (back row) Pat Bisson, Doug McDaniel, Grand Knight Jeff Templin, Ray Spraker, Frank Kartz, and Jim Connors.
COURTESY OF BARRY MCDEVITT
Our Lady of Lourdes parishioners donate funds for local food bank Father David Boettner, pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in South Pittsburg, and Marion County Community Ministries president Sherry Barnett hold a check representing a donation to the organization’s food bank. The Pope Francis Charitable Trust Fund donated $2,500 and parishioners of Our Lady of Lourdes added an additional $8,250 for a total of $10,750 that will go toward the purchase of food for families in need.
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Praying for Perspective
by George Valadie
Grandson, granddad traveling roads to the future Time together acquaints one youngster with a growing collection of new encounters
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he first time I wrote about Brady, I hadn’t even met him. He was in the womb, Katy’s to be exact, our oldest. So, what I wrote at that time wasn’t so much about him. Instead, it was about all the cool baby gear his mom and dad had bought, been given, and were accumulating as they prepared their world for his entry into it. If I recall correctly, I think all Nancy and I had acquired in advance was a secondhand crib for our firstborn child and an old-fashioned pail for her old-fashioned diapers. We were old school since it was our only choice. As they always do, times change. Among other items, Katy and her husband, Clint, had been showered with a wipes warmer and a pack or two of orthodontically approved pacifiers. And the baby bed came equipped with the ability to eventually transform and expand into a big-boy bed, sufficiently sized to host a neighborhood sleepover. Someone else gifted them with a baby-bottle sanitizer. Wasn’t us, we had no idea such even existed. It was a rocket-shaped gizmo that sat on their kitchen counter and did for him what her parents never did for her. Looking at it always took me back to when our own kids were a little bit older and we kept losing that one last bottle we owned. “For the love of all that is holy, will someone please find that dang bottle? She’s getting fussy.” “Here it is, under the couch!” “Well, blow the dirt off of it, put some Tab in it, and get it in here.” Much to our three daughters’
consternation, I will confess I have at times staged a mini-rebellion of sorts toward bits and pieces of their child rearing, though I prefer to think of myself as more of an “introducer.” Whenever the grandkids would spend time with us, I’ll readily admit to being the one most likely to have fed them some particular food item they had yet to taste. Or let them have some “first” experience. I know I introduced Brady to doughnuts and ice cream and Diet Coke. And several other treats that prompted a raised eyebrow. I took him on his first walk through the neighborhood while introducing him to the lessons he’d need for crossing his street. He was 2. I also introduced him to freedom—from footie pajamas. Just the idea of sleeping with your feet bound up still makes me cringe. When they asked us to let him sleep over one night, he arrived in just such a one-piece. I waited until she left. Then cut off the footie part of his sleepwear. Gave him back with ragged pants legs and a threat that a similar fate awaited any others. Time heals, I suppose— she still lets him sleep over. All that seems like yesterday. He’s 16 now and I have introduced him to a different sort of freedom. We’re learning to drive. Like many teens these days, he was reticent to take the test and not all that interested in getting behind the wheel. But one Saturday afternoon we found an empty parking lot and I allowed him that first spin. We hadn’t asked his mom, just jumped in headfirst. I was hoping she
Thoughts and Prayers for the Faithful
had gotten used to me and my ideas. But he’s all in now with dreams of his own car. His test has been passed, and mom, dad, and I have become his instructors. Thankfully, none of us own a car with a clutch. Years ago, when our girls were learning, they not only had to navigate an extra pedal, they had to do so on the hill in front of our house. “Look, there they go … oh, no, wait, here they come.” We bought several through the years. When Brady and I are out and about, we talk about all the things you would imagine. Blinkers and the messages they send and the ones we receive. When to ease on the brakes and when to slam on them. What green arrows tell you and why green lights don’t mean the same thing. Easing in and letting others do so. No phones, no distractions, no daydreaming. Parallel parking, the need to master it, and the desire to avoid it. I don’t know what his folks do when it’s their turn, but since he and I sit side-by-side, we’ve developed a bit of a sign language mixed with some blurted-out utterances that aren’t real words. Seemed better than hollering. Thankfully, we’ve only had one close call thus far. I’d say prayer saved us, but there was no time for that. I was uttering things for sure, but none resembled praying. I’m attributing that escape to luck while grateful for the lesson he had an opportunity to learn. Our time together is working toward its end. Because if we refine a few things, get a lot more experi-
ence, and pass the road test, come January he’ll be really free. I’ve enjoyed our time together, but I’m secretly hoping some of these lessons might carry over when all the freedoms of growing up land in his lap … and we’re no longer there. As life always does, he’ll no doubt find himself heading down some unfamiliar roads—literal and otherwise. Hopefully, he’ll take in all his surroundings before deciding if he should merge in. He’ll need to decide when to slow down and when to hard stop. When to detour and when to about-face. He’ll be forced to decipher all sorts of signs that give off all sorts of messages—visual, verbal, social media. And in the world of young adults, one bad choice and you can find yourself locked out and you can’t find the key. His life would probably be better with no phones, but that’s not happening. Everyone should daydream a little. But for sure, the distractions he’ll face will only grow in number and volume. Getting where he’s going will only get harder. I’m praying at journey’s end he gets home safely to mom and dad— and You. Dear God—Life’s voyage comes with all sorts of speed bumps, detours, and close calls. Many we put there ourselves. May we be ever mindful of our ultimate destination. Amen. ■ George Valadie is a parishioner at St. Stephen Church in Chattanooga and author of the book “We Lost Our Fifth Fork … and other moments when we need some perspective.”
by Deacon Bob Hunt
‘Cafeteria Catholicism’ has a fundamental problem Its followers reject the doctrine that the Church is the instrument of God’s revelation in Christ
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afeteria Catholicism” remains a reality in the Church of the 21st century. We likely see examples of it in our fellow parishioners, in our families, sometimes even in our priests and the occasional bishop. “Cafeteria Catholicism” is the notion that Catholics are free to choose between the doctrines of the Church that they like, and so accept, and those doctrines they don’t like, and so reject, much as a diner has the privilege of choosing which foods he will take from the cafeteria buffet and which foods he will leave aside. It is a privilege assumed by too many Catholics. There is a fundamental problem with Cafeteria Catholicism, however, and that is the defining Catholic doctrine that the Church is the instrument of God’s revelation in Christ (Acts 15:1-29, Ephesians 3:8-12, 1 Timothy 3:15). What that means is that, if I reject a defined doctrine of the Church, I am in danger of rejecting the doctrine that the Church is the instrument of God’s revelation in Christ. If the Church is not the instrument of God’s revelation in Christ, all that is left is the notion that each believer is the instrument of God’s revelation in Christ for that individual believer. In other words, we’re claiming that it doesn’t matter what God has revealed to us. What matters, rather, is what I believe about God. This is essentially the claim that I save myself. But we certainly do not save ourselves. The goal of the Christian is not to ascertain what he or she believes about God at the end of a long life of reflection and contemplation. The goal of the Christian is to receive the revelation given to us
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in Christ Jesus through the Church and conform our lives to that revelation. “Incline my heart according to your will, O God” (Psalm 119:36). But what if there is a doctrine of the Church that I simply cannot bring myself to accept, in all sincerity? First, let’s be clear that what I’m talking about are the defined teachings of the Church, what one will find in the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC), and not merely the opinions of a religious Sister or Brother, a deacon, a priest, a bishop, or even a pope. There are many areas of life where one can freely disagree with even the pope and remain completely within the parameters of Catholicism. And while we, as Catholics, are obliged to consider seriously what the pope has to say about any matter, we are not obliged to agree with him on all matters. The same is true for any Church leader. Where the Church has authority to interpret and communicate God’s revelation are the areas of faith and morals. Those are the only areas where the Church teaches with an authority that binds all Catholics. Even still, the freedom of the people of God on matters of conscience remains supreme. The Fourth Lateran Council taught in 1215 that “He who acts against his conscience loses his soul.” Of course, the council was speaking of a well-formed conscience. A wellformed conscience is one that has been developed over the years with prayer, humility, and, ideally, with the counsel of a spiritual director. A well-formed conscience considers the teachings of the Church with the understanding that one’s default
position is acceptance of that teaching. Only when acceptance becomes impossible as a matter of respect for the dignity of oneself can dissent be considered. Only when an issue of conscience becomes a matter of what one sincerely believes he or she ought to believe or do, or must believe or do, and not simply a matter of what one would rather believe or do, may one claim a well-formed conscience in dissenting from Church teaching. And still here, the utmost respect toward the Church as the instrument of God’s revelation in Christ must be maintained, so one may not presume the privilege of teaching his or her position of dissent to others as if it were the correct teaching, or God’s revelation. There is a principle all Catholics must keep in mind when considering the primacy of conscience over the teaching authority of the Church, and that is this: I might be wrong! So, what to do when one is struggling with a particular teaching of the Church? First, as alluded to above, make sure what you’re struggling with is truly a defined teaching of the Church and not merely someone’s opinion. Priests and deacons, when they preach, are wont to share their opinions on matters related to the Church, sometimes without making clear whether they are preaching on Church teaching or giving their take on a subject. If you’re going to have struggles, save them for defined doctrines. When struggling with a Church doctrine, what one must never do is reject that teaching out of hand as one that irks me or rubs me the wrong way, or is contrary to the life-
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style I’m living and am determined to keep living. Simply rejecting or dismissing a teaching of the Church on matters of faith and morals because it is difficult to believe or live, or because one finds it inconvenient with one’s chosen lifestyle, is dishonest, lazy, and unworthy of serious faith. Next, take it to the Lord in prayer, with a spirit of humility. Allow the Lord to speak His Word to you through Scripture and contemplation. That means one ought to be praying with the Scriptures, especially with those Scriptures that may be relevant to the teaching with which one is struggling, or that one disputes. It is essential that one truly desires to hear what the Lord has to say, and not what one wants the Lord to say. Fourth, consider what the Fathers of the Church had to say about it. The teachings of the Fathers are considered normative for Catholics, especially those teachings set forth in the creeds of the Church, of which there are three: The NiceneConstantinopolitan Creed (the one recited at Mass on Sundays), the Apostles’ Creed (the one we recite to open the rosary), and the Athanasian Creed (which you’ve likely never heard of or read; it’s long). Next, take it to your spiritual director, or a trusted priest, deacon, or religious. Give your points. Listen to their points. One of the things they may be able to help you ascertain is if this is truly a defined doctrine or merely someone’s opinion. They may also help discern your struggle in the context of the hierarchy of truths. What is the hierarchy of truths? Put simply, our faith that Deacon Hunt continued on page B10 TH E EA S T TEN N ES S EE C ATH OLI C
Encountering God in the Liturgy
by Father Randy Stice
The different ‘languages’ used in the liturgy Mass employs postures, gestures, movement, and more in its dialogue between God and His children
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language of objects blessed for use in the liturgy. Candles are signs of reverence and festivity and of the presence of Christ who is the light of the world. They are also a reminder of our baptism by which the Father has granted us a “share in the inheritance of the holy ones in light” (Colossians 1:12). Incense signifies the prayer and the gifts of the assembly rising up to God. It is also a sign of the dignity of ordained ministers, the priesthood of the baptized, and sacred objects. Finally, it conveys reverence for Christ and the transcendent otherness of God present in the midst of His people, enriching the solemnity and mystery of the liturgy. The Book of the Gospels is a sign of Christ, the Word of God. From the early centuries of the Church it has been accorded special honor: richly decorated manuscripts and ivory, silver, or gold bindings. The Mass is a dialogue between the Father and His children in Christ and in the Holy Spirit. The words proclaimed and the dialogues between the ordained ministers and the people have a special importance, such as the greeting, the Kyrie, the memorial acclamation, and the Lamb of God. The Eucharist is woven of these different liturgical languages. A good example of how these liturgical signs are woven together is the reading of the Gospel, which is “the high point of the liturgy of the Word,”4 for “Christ, present in His word, proclaims the Gospel.”5 Below is the complete rite including all of the liturgical elements. It assumes that the Book of the Gospels is part of the entrance procession and is placed on the altar at the begin-
ning of Mass. As you read, note the different liturgical languages, what they express, and why they are part of the reading of the Gospel. The reading of the Gospel begins following the second reading. The deacon goes to the celebrant and says, “Your blessing, Father.” He bows as the priest pronounces the blessing, “May the Lord be in your heart and on your lips, that you may proclaim His Gospel worthily and well,” concluding with the Trinitarian formula and the sign of the cross. The celebrant and the people stand, and the Gospel acclamation is sung. The deacon goes to the altar, bows, and takes the Book of the Gospels. He carries it in procession, led by the thurifer (the one who carries the incense) and two candle bearers. When they reach the ambo, the candle bearers stand on each side and the thurifer stands by the deacon. The deacon turns to the Gospel of the day, and says, “The Lord be with you,” and the people reply, “And with your spirit.” The deacon then says, “A reading from the holy Gospel according to N,” while making the sign of the cross first on the text, then on his forehead, lips, and chest. The people do the same and reply, “Glory to you, O Lord.” He then bows to the Book of the Gospels, incenses it, bows again, and gives the incense to the thurifer. He then proclaims the Gospel. At the conclusion he says, “The Gospel of the Lord,” and the people reply, “Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.” The deacon kisses the book and says quietly, “Through the words of the Gospel may our sins be wiped away.” Two observations. First, note that in the dialogue between the deacon
and the people before and after the reading, the deacon addresses the people, but their reply is addressed to Christ. Second, there are no “official” words that accompany the triple sign of the cross on the forehead, lips, and chest. The general meaning seems to be that we will embrace the Gospel with our whole being—mind, heart, and lips. A few questions for reflection. The Catechism speaks of a “harmony of signs (song, music, words, and actions).”6 How is the reading of the Gospel an example of the harmony of signs? What are different signs that signify Christ, that He is present and speaking to us today? What signs express our response? “The Eucharist unfolds in a dynamic context of signs containing a rich and luminous message,” wrote St. John Paul II. Understanding the liturgical signs leads us into the mystery of the Eucharist. “When minds are enlightened and hearts are enkindled, signs begin to ‘speak’…Through these signs the mystery in some way opens up before the eyes of the believer.”7 ■ The Sacrament of Charity, 40 2 Ibid, 64 3 Introduction to the Order of Mass (USCCB, 2003), 54 4 Lectionary for Mass, 13 5 General Instruction of the Roman Missal, 29 6 Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1158 7 Stay with Us Lord, 14 1
Father Randy Stice is director of the diocesan Office of Worship and Liturgy. He can be reached at frrandy@ dioknox.org.
COURTESY OF RALEIGH COOPER
he liturgy has its own language. Pope Benedict XVI described “the various kinds of language that the liturgy employs: words and music, gestures and silence, movement, the liturgical colors of the vestments. By its very nature, the liturgy operates on different levels of communication which enable it to engage the whole human person.”1 In other words, it is a language that uses different “languages,” different kinds of liturgical signs. For this reason, it requires a catechesis that makes us “more sensitive to the language of signs and gestures which, together with the word, make up the rite.”2 This month, I would like to offer an introduction to this liturgical language and then illustrate it with a liturgical rite from the Mass. One language the liturgy employs is the language of postures, gestures, and movement. Standing is a sign of respect and honor. It is also a sign that we have risen with Christ and that we are united to his victory. It is also an expression of readiness to hear and act. Bowing is a sign of honor and reverence. Kissing the altar and the Book of the Gospels, both symbols of Christ, is a sign of veneration. Moving from chair to altar or ambo indicates the different parts of the Mass and expresses more effectively “the presence of the Lord in word and sacrament.”3 The sign of the cross is the mark of those zealous for the glory of God and a sign of the power of God displayed in the cross of Christ. It is also a great preservative and weapon against the enemy. The liturgy also employs the
Daily readings Tuesday, Sept. 15: Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows, 1 Corinthians 12:12-14, 27-31; Psalm 100:1-5; John 19:25-27 Wednesday, Sept. 16: Memorial of Sts. Cornelius, pope, and Cyprian, bishop, martyrs, 1 Corinthians 12:31–13:13; Psalm 33:2-5, 12, 22; Luke 7:31-35 Thursday, Sept. 17: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11; Psalm 118:1-2, 16-17, 28; Luke 7:36-50 Friday, Sept. 18: 1 Corinthians 15:1220; Psalm 17:1, 6-8, 15; Luke 8:1-3 Saturday, Sept. 19: 1 Corinthians 15:35-37, 42-49; Psalm 56:10-14; Luke 8:4-15 Sunday, Sept. 20: Isaiah 55:6-9; Psalm 145:2-3, 8-9, 17-18; Philippians 1:20-24, 27; Matthew 20:1-16 Monday, Sept. 21: Feast of St. Matthew, Apostle and evangelist, EpheTH E EAST T E N N E S S E E C AT HO L I C
sians 4:1-7, 11-13; Psalm 19:2-5; Matthew 9:9-13 Tuesday, Sept. 22: Proverbs 21:1-6, 10-13; Psalm 119:1, 27, 30, 34-35, 44; Luke 8:19-21 Wednesday, Sept. 23: Memorial of St. Pius of Pietrelcina, priest, Proverbs 30:5-9; Psalm 119:29, 72, 89, 101, 104, 163; Luke 9:1-6 Thursday, Sept. 24: Ecclesiastes 1:2-11; Psalm 90:3-6, 12-14, 17; Luke 9:7-9 Friday, Sept. 25: Ecclesiastes 3:1-11; Psalm 144:1-4; Luke 9:18-22 Saturday, Sept. 26: Ecclesiastes 11:9–12:8; Psalm 90:3-6, 12-14, 17; Luke 9:43-45 Sunday, Sept. 27: Ezekiel 18:25-28; Psalm 25:4-9; Philippians 2:1-11; Matthew 21:28-32 Monday, Sept. 28: Job 1:6-22; Psalm 17:1-3, 6-7; Luke 9:46-50 Tuesday, Sept. 29: Feasts of Sts.
Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, archangels, Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14; Psalm 138:1-5; John 1:47-51 Wednesday, Sept. 30: Memorial of St. Jerome, priest and doctor of the Church, Job 9:1-12, 14-16; Psalm 88:10-15; Luke 9:57-62 Thursday, Oct. 1: Memorial of St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus, virgin and doctor of the Church, Job 19:2127; Psalm 27:7-9, 13-14; Luke 10:1-12 Friday, Oct. 2: Memorial of the Holy Guardian Angels, Job 38:1, 12-21 and 40:3-5; Psalm 139:1-3, 7-10, 1314; Matthew 18:1-5, 10 Saturday, Oct. 3: Job 42:1-3, 5-6, 1217; Psalm 119:66, 71, 75, 91, 125, 130; Luke 10:17-24 Sunday, Oct. 4: Isaiah 5:1-7; Psalm 80:9, 12-16, 19-20; Philippians 4:6-9; Matthew 21:33-43 Monday, Oct. 5: Galatians 1:6-12; Psalm 111:1-2, 7-10; Luke 10:25-37
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Honor guard at St. Andrew Dung-Lac Church dedication Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus provided an honor guard at the dedication Mass for the new church for the St. Andrew Dung-Lac Public Association of the Faithful on Aug. 23 (see the story that begins on page A1). Pictured with Bishop Mark Beckman, Auxiliary Bishop John Tran of the Archdiocese of Atlanta, and Father Nick Tran of St. Andrew Dung-Lac are Lee Norris, Thomas Campbell, Al Salatka, Raleigh Cooper, Sonny Yemm, John Chenkus, Chris Humkey, Victor Williams, Mike Williams, Terry Duffy, Andy Wickidal, Brandon Jennings, Kevin Olley, Steve Horten, and State Deputy Eric Pelton (far right).
Tuesday, Oct. 6: Galatians 1:13-24; Psalm 139:1-3, 13-15; Luke 10:38-42 Wednesday, Oct. 7: Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary, Galatians 2:1-2, 7-14; Psalm 117:1-2; Luke 11:1-4 Thursday, Oct. 8: Galatians 3:1-5; Luke 1:69-75; Luke 11:5-13 Friday, Oct. 9: Galatians 3:7-14; Psalm 111:1-6; Luke 11:15-26 Saturday, Oct. 10: Galatians 3:22-29; Psalm 105:2-7; Luke 11:27-28 Sunday, Oct. 11: Isaiah 25:6-10; Psalm 23:1-6; Philippians 4:12-14, 19-20; Matthew 22:1-14 Monday, Oct. 12: Galatians 4:22-24, 26-27, and 4:31–5:1; Psalm 113:1-7; Luke 11:29-32 Tuesday, Oct. 13: Galatians 5:1-6; Psalm 119:41, 43-45, 47-48; Luke 11:37-41 Wednesday, Oct. 14: Galatians 5:1825; Psalm 1:1-4, 6; Luke 11:42-46 ■ SEPTEMBER 2026 n B7
Calendar continued from page B5 tickets are on sale for $15 per person, which includes food and a game ticket. To register online (which includes a fee of $1.45) or make a donation, visit knoxvillecatholic.com/tailgate/. A Picture of Love retreat for engaged couples is scheduled for 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 2, and 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Chattanooga. Mass will be celebrated at 4:30 p.m. on Oct. 3 at OLPH. This marriage-preparation program is a supplement to a couple’s marriage formation with their parish priest or deacon. Picture of Love explores the joys and challenges of living out the sacrament of matrimony with special focus on the importance of inviting Jesus to be the center of marriage and family life. The program will help a couple gain insights into their relationship, as well as give them practical ideas and tools to help smooth their journey and become the “Picture of Love” to one another. Participants who complete the program will receive a certificate to present to their county clerk and receive a $60 discount on their marriage license. The marriage license is valid for 30 days from issuance and is good for ceremonies performed anywhere in Tennessee.
Parish notes continued from page B4 8:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, in Seton Hall. A Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Mass will be held at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 14. Families may submit names of their children to be read aloud at the Mass, which will also provide an opportunity for silent intentions. Knights of Columbus Ted H. Denning Jr. Council 8781 held a membership drive following Masses on Sept. 12-13. The Knights and their KIND Charities are holding a 50/50 raffle contest. Sales are underway and end Nov. 20, with the drawing on Nov. 28. Tickets are $10 each, and sales will benefit Special Olympics in Tennessee. The parish is gearing up for a yearlong triple anniversary celebration that includes its 50-year jubilee. St. John Neumann’s patron was canonized on June 19, 1977, and Bishop James D. Niedergeses of Nashville on July 18 of that year approved the saint as the namesake for the new Catholic community in West Knox County. St. John Neumann Parish in the coming year will also celebrate the 30th anniversary of its school, which opened in August 1997. St. John Neumann is gathering photos of first Holy Communions, school events, parish picnics, and other special moments in the parish history. To see anniversary events and learn how to volunteer to help the parish during the celebration, visit sjnknox. org/jubilee. A photo gallery will be posted on the website. Submit photos at news@sjnknox.org or drop off hard copies at the parish office, where they will be scanned and returned. St. Joseph, Norris The Men of St. Joseph will hold a spaghetti supper at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19, in the social hall. Tickets are $12 and $5 for those under 12. Baby bottles will be distributed after Mass on Sunday, Sept. 20, to raise funds for the Catholic Charities of East Tennessee Pregnancy Help Center in LaFollette. Middle- and high-school youth on Oct. 18 will begin “The Chosen: This Is Your Catholic Faith,” a 24-lesson study from Ascension Press.
Five Rivers Deanery
Cost is $175 per couple. Registration is available at dioknox.org/events/ picture-of-love-retreat-oct-2026. Late registrations are accepted if space allows (cost is $200). Also at the website are three exercises: a personality test, a “love language profile for couples,” and a fillable budget worksheet. Couples are asked to complete the exercises in advance and bring them to the retreat—see the website for more details. Contact Carolyn Krings at 865-5843307 or ckrings@dioknox.org for more information. Catholic youth ages 6-20 are invited to a Scouting retreat, a day of faith and fellowship, at the pavilion at Sacred Heart Cathedral School on Saturday, Oct. 10. There will be activities, games, lunch, reconciliation, and Mass. The day begins at 10 a.m., concluding with Mass at 5 p.m. Cost is $10 and includes activities and lunch. For more information, e-mail Kimberly Turnmire at kimberly.turnmire@gmail.com. Young adults are invited to a retreat Friday evening to Sunday morning, Oct. 23-25, at Christ Prince of Peace Retreat Center in Benton. The retreat will center on St. Pier Giorgio Frassati. Only 30 spots are available. Cost is $150, with a $50 deposit due at registra-
of 9/11. Holy Trinity is forming a choir. Those who wish to sing or play a musical instrument are invited to practices at 5:30 p.m. on first and third Thursdays at the church. Contact Denise Frinzi at 262-490-2633 or denise.frinzi@proton mail.com for more information. Anniversaries: Cecil and Judith Sherk (65), Gary and Betty Noel (55), Rod and Kathy O’Barr (50) Notre Dame, Greeneville The parish will host its 17th annual Fall Festival of Nations from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19. The day includes an international food court, live entertainment, a raffle with three chances to win cash, a silent auction, games, and an art display. The Council of Catholic Women will have a Meet & Greet Social at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 20. Anniversaries: John and Connie Seehoffer (57), Tom and Elizabeth Girton (56), Gary and Roberta Greenway (54) St. Dominic, Kingsport The St. Dominic Seniors group is planning to see the musical Come from Away at the Barter Theatre in Abingdon, Va., at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 6. Those interested should contact senior ministry coordinator Amy Makemson at seniors@saintdomchurch.com or 423288-8101, extension 117. St. Patrick, Morristown St. Patrick is collecting snacks and treats through Tuesday, Sept. 22, for local police officers and first responders. Parishioners will deliver goodie bags to them before the feast day of St. Michael and the Archangels on Sept. 29. The parish will have its annual drivethru pet blessings from 10 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3. Parishioners are asked to bring a donation to support Paws of Love, a local elderly dog rescue and retirement home.
Smoky Mountain Deanery Holy Family, Seymour The parish picnic will follow the 11 a.m. Mass on Sunday, Sept. 27.
Holy Trinity, Jefferson City Holy Ghost, Knoxville The Council of Catholic Women will meet at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19, in the parish life center. A guest speaker will talk about preventing scams. A potluck lunch will conclude the meeting. The Knights of Columbus presented a special rosary, praying the glorious mysteries, after the 10:30 a.m. Mass on Sept. 13, dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the 25th anniversary B8 n SEPTEMBER 2026
The Smoky Mountain Deanery Council of Catholic Women will hold its board meeting at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3, at Holy Ghost. An overnight retreat for girls in sixth through 12th grades and women of all ages is set for Friday and Saturday, Oct. 2-3, at 326 Milligan Lane in Blaine. Check-in is at 6 p.m. on Friday or 9 a.m. for those attending on Saturday
tion. Register at dioknox.org/events/ frassati-retreat. Our Lady of the Mountains Rosary Guild meets one Sunday each month at St. John Neumann Church in Farragut, with the next meeting set for 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 27, in Seton Hall. The guild works to place rosaries into the hands of those longing for prayer, peace, and hope—both locally and throughout the world. For more information, contact the guild at olmrgknoxvilletn@gmail.com or visit www.olmrgknoxvilletn.org. High-school students are invited to “Called to Be Great,” a youth conference centered on a personal call to holiness, at Camp Ba Yo Ca in Sevierville on Dec. 4-6. The conference will feature guest speakers and musicians. More information on and registration for “Called to Be Great” will be available soon. The Healing Ministry at Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Alcoa offers healing prayers every third weekend of the month for anyone who has a physical, emotional, or spiritual need. Individual healing prayer will be offered in Spanish in the church immediately following the 7 p.m. Saturday Mass in Spanish, and prayer will be offered in English in the
only. Pick-up is at 7 p.m. on Saturday. Costs are $46 for overnight and $31 for Saturday only. Contact Emilia Klinzing at fidelisholyghost@gmail.com for more details.
chapel immediately following the 11 a.m. Sunday Mass. Call Toni Jacobs at 561315-5911 if you have any questions. Catholic in Recovery is a 12-step recovery ministry that holds meetings each Monday at 7 p.m. at St. Dominic Church in Kingsport and each Sunday at 4 p.m. at All Saints Church in Knoxville. CIR provides hope and healing from addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments. Family members impacted by a loved one’s addiction are also encouraged to attend. Meetings combine the spiritual principles of 12-step recovery and the sacraments of the Catholic Church. Join others in recovery as the meetings overlap Scripture from Sunday Mass readings, liturgical themes, and recovery topics with honest discussion and prayer. Confidentiality is protected. The St. Dominic gatherings are hybrid meetings, in person in the St. Thomas Aquinas Room of the parish life center or online at tinyurl.com/cir-zoom-tricitiestn. For more information, visit www. catholicinrecovery.com. For more details on the meetings at St. Dominic, contact Jena at cir.tricities.tn@gmail. com or call Oscar at 423-213-2434. For the meetings at All Saints, call Martin Ohmes at 865-438-4905 or e-mail CIR AllSaintsKnoxville@gmail.com. n
The CCW’s Welcome Back general meeting took place on Sept. 14 in the social hall. The guest speaker was Idalia Martinez, a CCW Golden Rose recipient, student, and altar server who also works in the parish office and nursery.
Immaculate Conception, Knoxville Sacred Heart, Knoxville The parish’s 17th annual Irish Fest on the Hill on Aug. 8 made a profit of about $37,000. A total of 1,130 people attended the event, not including the many volunteers. The Irish Fest committee donated $40,000 to the parish to be earmarked for eventually repairing and painting the church spire and fixing its clock and tower. Deborah McDaniel has accepted the role of coordinator of religious education at IC. Parishioners can meet her after Masses on the weekend of Sept. 19-20. A Bible study on Revelation will be held via Tuesday Zoom meetings at 7 p.m. from Sept. 22-Dec. 15 and Thursdays in the parish hall at 10 a.m. from Sept. 24-Dec. 17. For more information, email Rosilyn Flanagan at rosilyn flanagan462@gmail.com. IC’s Haiti Committee is holding an ecumenical prayer service at 6 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 20, led by associate pastor Father Tim Sullivan, CSP. Four additional churches will join IC for the service, which will have Scripture readings, inspirational comments, and music. A parish family picnic, which includes a retirement celebration for Nancy Brennan Strange of the IC office, is set for 4 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 11, at the Strong Stock Farm, 8220 Rutledge Pike in Knoxville. IC will mark National First Responders Day on Wednesday, Oct. 28. Call Pat Ryan at 865-466-9828 for more information. The Women’s Group will hold its annual Craft Fair on Nov. 14-15 in the parish hall. Those interested in a booth should contact Beth Meyer at 865-456-8857 or meyer.beth73@gmail.com. Fees are $20 and must be paid in advance. To donate a theme basket for the fair, email Pat Ryan at 4065patryan@gmail. com. IC thanked everyone who donated to Father Charlie’s Christmas Wish List last year for the replacement of the parish office and parish hall doors. Father Charlie Donahue, CSP, is the IC pastor. The office doors were recently replaced, with the others to follow within a month. Our Lady of Fatima, Alcoa The Council of Catholic Women teamed up with Cross Catholic Outreach to distribute Boxes of Joy on the weekend of Sept. 5-6. Parishioners took boxes to fill with suggested items that are then sent to children in developing countries who normally wouldn’t receive a gift for Christmas.
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Christian Ratterman, Sacred Heart’s youth and young adult minster for five years, is moving to Nashville to serve as the director of youth ministry at Holy Family Church in Brentwood. Associate pastor Father Danny Herman will take on the role of being chaplain to the ministry and, assisted by Deacon Walt Otey, will lead a search committee for a director of youth discipleship. Connor Cain is the new director of information technology for the cathedral, overseeing the technology infrastructure across the entire campus. His responsibilities will include networking, software management, cybersecurity, and the maintenance of the school’s device fleet to ensure a safe and connected environment for the entire Sacred Heart community. A women’s potluck social will be held at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 17, in Cathedral Hall. Sacred Heart rector Father Michael Cummins will offer a reflection during the evening. The next Movie Night with a Priest is set for 6 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 18, in Cathedral Hall, featuring the film “Risen.” Father Cummins will lead a discussion following the film. Doors open at 5 p.m. Ages 18 and over only. The event is free and includes pizza; RSVP at moviewithapriest.org. A Care of Creation ministry is being formed at Sacred Heart. Its first meeting was held Sept. 10. St. Francis of Assisi, Townsend Upcoming events include a pet blessing outside the parish resource center at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3, and a movie night featuring “Brother Sun, Sister Moon” at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 1. St. John XXIII, Knoxville Those who sing or play a musical instrument are invited to participate in weekend Masses. Contact Mary Beth at john23music@gmail.com if interested. St. Joseph the Worker, Madisonville The Women’s Group will have its first meeting of the program year at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19, in the parish hall. Those attending can meet new board members and play bingo. A Wednesday Bible study will begin at 10 a.m. on Sept. 23 in Marian Hall. The topic will be “Foundations of Faith” based on the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Call Marion Croker at 423-4200135 to register or learn more. n TH E EA S T TEN N ES S EE C ATH OLI C
Catholic schools
Notre Dame High School launches capital campaign As part its 150-year celebration, NDHS is raising funds via naming rights and donations to support a variety of projects
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Dr. Eric Schexnaildre or director of advancement Patrick Healy at 423-624-4618 or communications@
myndhs365.com. Learn more at www.myndhs. com/giving/capital-campaign. ■
KCHS appoints Haden Roberts as new head coach for softball
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COURTESY OF BILL HEWITT (2)
KCHS senior named National Merit Scholarship semifinalist Knoxville Catholic High School senior Mary Zengel has been named a National Merit Scholarship semifinalist. Mary is among the top 1 percent of high school seniors nationwide who took the PSAT and will continue in the national competition for approximately 6,700 scholarships totaling $26 million. There were 16,000 students selected out of more than 1 million entrants to advance to the semifinals.
vations, a new school bus, band room renovations, utility (power and plumbing) upgrades, multiple classroom upgrades, and Miller Theatre renovations. The capital campaign has a Club 150 that recognizes individuals who donate $150,000 or more and a 150 Society to recognize groups of Notre Dame alumni and/or supporters who collectively donate $150,000 or more. Also as part of the campaign, there are naming-rights opportunities. Individuals or businesses may purchase naming rights to the NDHS football stadium for $1 million, the softball field for $600,000, the band room for $300,000, four science labs for $200,000 each, and four athletic locker rooms for $200,000 each. For more information about Club 150 or naming-rights opportunities, contact head of school
COURTESY OF KNOXVILLE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
otre Dame High School in Chattanooga, as part of its 150th-anniversary celebration, is launching a capital campaign with a total goal of $3.7 million designed to strengthen the campus, deepen school programs, and improve classrooms to ensure that Notre Dame continues to thrive for generations to come. The school thanked generous givers from its previous capital campaign that helped it complete multiple projects, including the renovation of Phifer Gymnasium and areas surrounding it, the installation of new interior and exterior security cameras to increase safety on the campus, roof replacements, and more. The 2026 capital campaign will support exterior and interior projects such as a turf field installation at Eberle Field, the school’s firstever softball field, stadium reno-
noxville Catholic High School on June 17 announced the appointment of Haden Roberts as the next head coach of the Lady Irish softball program. Mr. Roberts brings more than 13 years of coaching experience to the role, including two seasons as an assistant coach with Knoxville Catholic. During his time with the Lady Irish, he helped guide the program to a historic milestone this spring as Knoxville Catholic earned its first appearance in the state tournament since 1984. “We are extremely pleased to name Haden Roberts as the next head softball coach at Knoxville Catholic High School,” said athletics director Jason Surlas. “Haden is an outstanding coach with extensive experience in the sport of softball and a man of tremendous character who embodies the values of our school. I am confident he will build upon the momentum and success of our softball program from last season.”
A lifelong student of the game, Mr. Roberts has served as a head coach at both Karns High School and Concord Christian School while also holding assistant coaching positions at Knoxville Central High School and Karns High School. In addition to his high-school coaching experience, he spent 10 years coaching travel softball with the Knoxville Lady Eagles, a faith-based organization focused on developing players and helping them reach the next level. “We have a special group of student-athletes who believe in what this program can become,” Mr. Roberts said. “I’m excited to work alongside our players, families, and the entire Knoxville Catholic community as we continue to grow Lady Irish softball.” Mr. Roberts began his tenure as head softball coach immediately. He succeeds Hannah Seaver-Logan in the role. For more information, contact Mr. Surlas at jason.surlas@knoxville catholic.com. ■
New school year begins Attending the breakfast were (top photo, from left) St. Dominic school board chair Dr. Danyelle Porter; board members Connie Fernandez, Dr. Bill Hewitt, and Joan Hrivnak; Martha Mundine, diocesan superintendent; St. Dominic principal Bonnie Saleh; board member Maria Aramburu; and Maura Lentz, diocesan director of human resources.
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uly 27 was a special day at St. Dominic School in Kingsport as members of the school board joined teachers and staff for a breakfast to celebrate the start of a new school year. The meal was organized as a gesture of appreciation and encouragement, providing an opportunity for board members to spend time with the faculty and staff while expressing their gratitude for the important work they do. Board chair Dr. Danyelle Porter welcomed everyone with opening remarks, expressing gratitude for TH E EAST T E N N E S S E E C AT HO L I C
the dedication and commitment of the school’s educators and staff. Following her remarks, a prayer was offered before the teachers and staff proceeded through the breakfast buffet line. Martha Mundine, superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Knoxville, and Maura Lentz, diocesan director of human resources, also attended the breakfast. They were welcomed by St. Dominic School principal Bonnie Saleh, who thanked them for their continued support of Catholic education. ■ w ww.di o k no x .o rg
COURTESY OF ST MARY SCHOOL (2)
St. Dominic School board, staff enjoy welcome-back breakfast
St. Mary-Oak Ridge holds annual vacation Bible school St. Mary Parish in Oak Ridge held its annual vacation Bible school in June at the gym in St. Mary School. Diocesan seminarian Gerald Stults made a surprise visit to the VBS during the week.
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COURTESY OF KNOXVILLE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL (7)
Catholic schools
COURTESY OF BILL HEWITT (2)
Bishop Beckman celebrates all-school Mass at Knoxville Catholic Bishop Mark Beckman celebrated an all-school Mass on Sept. 2 at Knoxville Catholic High School. School chaplain Father Randy Stice concelebrated the Mass. The bishop met with students for lunch after the liturgy.
St. Dominic School board holds FunFest Block Party Rain dampened much of the Tri-Cities area on July 10, but by late afternoon the skies cleared just in time for the St. Dominic School board’s FunFest Block Party at the school playground. Principal Bonnie Saleh and other staff members welcomed children and parents at the registration tent, where families had the opportunity to enter a prize drawing. Throughout the evening, attendees enjoyed a variety of games such as cornhole, a foam station, a Nerf axe-throwing board, and bubble activities.
REGISTE R AT WWW.D IOKNOX .ORG EVENTS
Picture of Love Retreat
A workshop for Engaged Couples FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2026 6:30 P.M.— 9:00 P.M.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2026 8:30 A.M. - 6:00 P.M INCLUDES MASS: 4:30 P.M. Pre-workshop exercises are strongly recommended to prepare for the lifelong commitment of marriage. Exercise links are included on the registration
Deacon Hunt continued from page B6
Jesus is fully God and fully man is more central to our faith than is our belief in guardian angels. There are some things as a Catholic that you have to believe and other things as a Catholic that you don’t have to believe. A spiritual director can help you discern the difference. Bottom line: as a Catholic, you belong to a community. Take advantage of that. You’re not in this alone. Finally, assume you’re wrong and B10 n SEPTEMBER 2026
live as if you are, until you can no longer do so because the matter has become one of what you must do, and never what you would rather do. As Pope St. John XXIII said, “In essentials, unity; in doubtful matters, liberty; in all things, charity.” Be Christ for all. Bring Christ to all. See Christ in all. ■ Deacon Bob Hunt is a husband, father, grandfather, and parishioner at All Saints Church in Knoxville. w ww.di o k no x .o rg
OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP 501 S MOORE RD, CHATTANOOGA, TN 37412 Register with QR code or www.dioknox.org
The goal of this workshop is to help couples prepare for marriage by revealing conversations on challenges that may come up in life celebrated together.
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