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COUNTDOWN TO LENT
F E B R UARY 2019 FA I TH e r ie.com
DO I REALLY NEED JESUS TO BE HAPPY? ANOTHER WAY TO GIVE: Catholic Foundation of NW PA
FORWARD TOGETHER …with truth … with hope …with Christ A special edition of FAITH magazine produced in collaboration with the Catholic Services Appeal
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Contents 4 from the editor
A personal story about how the Catholic Services Appeal goes to the “heart” of what really matters in our daily lives
6 special report
ncial vices
HOW YOUR YOUR HOW $4.235 MILLION $4.235 MILLION IN CSA CSA DONATIONS DONATIONS IS ARE USED USED
0,000
bunal ffice
0,000
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A look at Lent
Ashes, fasting, penance and the color purple mean Lent is upon us. Ash Wednesday is March 6.
7 truth in charity Why give to the church in this time of crisis? Because we still have work to do on behalf of the Lord, says Bishop Lawrence Persico.
Catholic Charities
Communications
$711,000
$360,000
8 on the scene
A collection of interesting photos and news from around the Diocese of Erie and the world
10 in the know with Father Joe
Clergy Services
Pastoral Services
$220,000
Father Joe Krupp responds to the question, “Why do I need a relationship with Jesus to be happy?”
$701,000
26 news report Sex abuse crisis
COUNTLESS
26
people in need
65
deacons and 11 deacon candidates
7,100
hool students 2) at 33 schools
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29
31
local news
things to do
10 top news items
on the cover
Bishop Lawrence Persico continues to lead the diocese through the sex abuse crisis with “uncomfortable” conversations, a spiritual retreat and a new victim compensation fund.
97 parishes in 13 counties
SPECIAL SECTION Catholic Services Appeal 2019
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FAQs
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Protecting children
“Forward Together … with truth … with hope … with Christ” is the theme of the 2019 Catholic Services Appeal in the Diocese of Erie.
14-15 Faith formation, liturgy, social justice 16
How CSA donations are used
A simple candle lights the way as we come together to meet the many needs of our 13-county diocese in northwest Pennsylvania.
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Punxsy school reinvigorated
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Beyond the goal
Your contribution to the Catholic Services Appeal ensures that the diocese continues to offer outreach to schools, parishes and its various ministries.
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Safety is No. 1 priority
We can only do it together! CNS PHOTO
21-23 Catholic Foundation 3
/ From the editor /
Catholic Services Appeal The magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Erie
goes to the ‘heart’
PUBLISHER
Two years ago, my youngest son underwent a heart procedure to zap a circuit that might have killed him.
The Most Rev. Lawrence T. Persico EDITOR
Mary Solberg msolberg@ErieRCD.org ADVERTISING/CIRCULATION MANAGER
Brenda Williams Ads@FAITHerie.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Michelle Basista Erica Erwin Father Joe Krupp Lisa Louis Ann Miller The Most Rev. Lawrence Persico Anne-Marie Welsh AD DESIGN
Elizabeth Butterfield PROOFREADING
Erica Erwin Mary Solberg Anne-Marie Welsh PHOTOGRAPHERS
Erica Erwin Melinda Isachsen Rich Papalia Mary Solberg Anne-Marie Welsh THEOLOGICAL CONSULTANT
Father Michael Kesicki WWW.ERIERCD.ORG DESIGN
Rich Papalia
FAITH Catholic PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Patrick M. O’Brien VICE PRESIDENT AND EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Elizabeth Martin Solsburg GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Matthew Watters PRINT MANAGEMENT
InnerWorkings FAITHTM (USPS 900002637) is a membership publication of the Catholic Diocese of Erie, 429 E. Grandview Blvd., Erie, PA 16504. Published bi-monthly. Subscription rates are $15 per year. Individual issues are $2.50. Advertising inquiries, subscription requests and address changes can be sent to 429 E. Grandview Blvd., Erie, PA 16504; 814.824.1161; fax 814.824.1170 or e-mail Faith@ErieRCD.org. Periodicals Postage Paid at Erie, PA and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: FAITH, 429 East Grandview Boulevard, Erie, PA 16504. ©2018 FAITHTM, Catholic Diocese of Erie and FAITH CatholicTM, Catholic Diocese of Lansing. No portion of FAITHTM may be published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise reproduced or distributed in whole or in part, without prior written authority of the Diocese of Erie and/or FAITH CatholicTM. For reprint information or other questions regarding use of copyright material, contact FAITHTM, Catholic Diocese of Erie. FAITHTM and the Diocese of Erie do not necessarily endorse the content of any website referenced in this publication other than their own.
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He was diagnosed by the Cleveland Clinic with Wolf Parkinson White, an Mary Solberg is the editor of electrical abnormalFaith magazine, ity that could cause Erie a life-threatening arrhythmia. I’ll never forget Jon’s ashen face when Dr. Peter Aziz told him there was a chance, although rare, that he could die if he didn’t have an ablation. Of course, we chose the procedure. Thankfully, the problem was eliminated. The ordeal, while relatively brief, inspired us on many levels, among them trusting in God and well-qualified physicians. But there were other experiences during that time that one might describe as pure gifts. First, I had a chance to talk to my then 18-year-old about life, death, fear and resilience. At the core of our discussions was the need to depend on God, who is working through the Holy Spirit for all that is good. Trust me, such conversations are rare with boys. Naturally, the support of family and friends also boosted our morale. But one of the most unexpected blessings of the experience came the Sunday before Jon’s procedure. At Our Lady of the Lake Parish in Edinboro, Father Dan Hoffman, pastor, approached
For me, the Catholic Services Appeal is personal. Not only do I try to inspire and inform people through my work in the Office of Communications, but I experienced first-hand the unexpected gift of the Holy Spirit one Sunday morning."
Faith magazine | February 2019 | www.faitherie.com
us after Mass and asked if he could administer the sacrament of the sick. Using sacred oil, Father Dan anointed Jon, asking the Lord, in his love and mercy, to protect him and give him strength. The first time my son had been anointed with oil was at his baptism. Both then and now, the Holy Spirit somehow infused him — and my family — with grace. It definitely helped carry us through the six-hour medical procedure. I am grateful to the Office of Worship that coordinates the distribution of these sacred oils throughout our 13-county Diocese of Erie. If it weren’t for donations to the annual Catholic Services Appeal, this grace would not have been so readily available to us. In this special edition of Faith magazine, you can read about the efforts of Matt Clark, administrator of the Office of Worship, and many other diocesan offices that are making a daily difference in the lives of all people in northwestern Pennsylvania. Those who give to the appeal make it possible for the diocese to help many people, from parishioners seeking the sacraments, to children in church day care settings, to those in our communities who need food and/or housing. It’s kind of a win-win situation. If we give, then others — including ourselves — are lifted just a little bit higher. For me, the Catholic Services Appeal is personal. Not only do I try to inspire and inform people through my work in the Office of Communications, but I experienced first-hand the unexpected gift of the Holy Spirit one Sunday morning. Remember that your CSA donation funds offices that are in service to all the ministries of the Diocese of Erie. Pledge your support through your parish in the coming weeks.
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/ Special Report /
MATT WATTERS
A look at Lent
Current rules and practices All Catholics, ages 14 and older, are bound by the law of abstinence. Abstinence means refraining from the consumption of meat (land animals) on Ash Wednesday and all Fridays of Lent. Why Friday? This is meant to unite ourselves with Jesus’ sacrifice, made for us on Good Friday.
ASHES, FASTING, PENANCE AND THE COLOR PURPLE. IT ALL STARTS MARCH 6
T
he Lenten season, in preparation for Easter, has been observed from the onset of the Catholic Church, although there have been inconsistencies with duration and practices. The Council of Nicea, 325 A.D., established Easter’s fluid date as the Sunday following the first full moon of the vernal equinox. In 461 A.D., Pope St. Leo established the duration of Lent as 40 consecutive days before Easter. And Pope Gregory the Great, in the sixth century, added the dispensing of ashes the preceding Wednesday, making Lent 46 days. Sundays were considered feast days and not included in the count. Initially, all forms of meat, fish and animal products were excluded for the entirety of Lent. People were allowed one meal per day, after 3 p.m. In the 1400s, that time was revised to noon. Eventually, a small snack was included to sustain energy. Over time, fish, meat and eventually dairy products were allowed. However, fasting was required all 40 days. It wasn’t until 1966 that fast days were lessened to Ash Wednesday and Good Friday only. WHY PURPLE? Colors powerfully convey unspoken messages and evoke emotions. Scriptural accounts share that Jesus was robed in purple to mock his implied
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royalty as king of the Jews. The pain of his Passion and crucifixion became associated with this color. Purple reminds us that the days of Lent are times of repentance and atonement, of acknowledging how our selfish desires continue to suppress and crucify the goodness of God today.
All Catholics, ages 18 to 59, are to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Fasting is defined as eating one full, meatless meal on prescribed days. Bits of food can be taken at other traditional meal times, although their combined total should not equal a full meal.
WHY DON’T WE SING THE ‘GLORIA’ OR SAY ‘ALLELUIA’ DURING LENT? The “Gloria” is a joyful hymn of praise thanking God and recognizing Jesus as the Lamb of God. The “Alleluia” is an exclamation of praise. While we know Jesus has risen and set us free, during Lent, we anticipate the events to come. Lent is a time to revisit Old Testament events leading to Christ’s mission and the salvation of humanity. It’s a time of facing the human struggles impeding our own resurrection. Refraining from joyous hymns of exultation maintains Lent’s penitential mood.
Penitential practices, like fasting and abstinence, are intended to refocus our thoughts and intentions toward God. Lent’s 40 days include Ash Wednesday to Holy Thursday (the Lenten fast continues until Holy Saturday), not including Sundays. Sundays are optional but encouraged. For health reasons, the infirm, ill, and pregnant or nursing mothers are exempt.
WHY 40 DAYS? The number 40 has ecclesial significance: Moses spent 40 days on Mt. Sinai before receiving the 10 Commandments; Jesus spent 40 days in prayer and fasting prior to beginning his ministry. So, too, we spend 40 days preparing to do God’s work.
Three other Lenten disciplines are prayer, fasting from behaviors that detract from our relationship with God, and sharing our resources to ensure the basic needs of human dignity.
Faith magazine | February 2019 | www.faitherie.com
REPRINTED WITH PERMISSION FROM FAITH CATHOLIC
/ Truth in charity — A message from the bishop /
Truth helps us move
forward together
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W
hen I chose “Truth in Charity” as the motto of my episcopacy of the Diocese of Erie, I promised to always speak the truth in love. I also pledged to never shrink from my responsibility as a Christian or as a clergyman to be honest and generous with my time and concern. The Most Rev. I hope I have lived up to those prom- Lawrence T. Persico, Bishop of Erie. ises in the past six and a half years as Follow him on your bishop, but particularly in the last Twitter year during the church sex abuse crisis. @BishopPersico Speaking the truth can be difficult, but I have endeavored to do just that as we confront the sins of the past in our own diocese. The old adage “The truth will set you free” is accurate to the degree that our heart is engaged in the process. I have met and talked with victims of sex abuse and have worked with fellow bishops in Pennsylvania and throughout the country to make credible, meaningful changes in how we prevent and handle abuse in our ranks. This scandal has injured so many people, both the victims of abuse and members of the church as a whole. My heart aches, as I’m sure your hearts do. You may wonder, then, why this would be a good time to conduct our annual diocesan Catholic Services Appeal (CSA). But the truth is, we must. You see, our diocese still has work “I personally to do on behalf of the Lord. The assure you that church requires your help to remain focused on Christ and the needs of donations to the the people of God. 2019 CSA will not I personally assure you that donabe used — in any tions to the 2019 CSA will not be used way — to fund the — in any way — to fund the legal expenses of the diocese related to the legal expenses of the diocese related Pennsylvania grand jury investigation on clergy sex abuse. CSA contributo the Pennsylvania tions will not be used for legal fees grand jury investi- or settlements, and CSA monies will gation on clergy sex not be used to support a proposed victims’ compensation fund. abuse. CSA money While tempting, we must not focus will not be used entirely on the sin and the sinners. for legal fees or It’s important to hold the church accountable for its transgressions, settlements.”
but it’s imperative that we move forward together. Like any family faced with tragedy, we have to keep moving, one step at a time. Family members fail, but the family unit endures, hopefully healthier. The Catholic Services Appeal, which is the focus of this special edition of Faith magazine, is the annual fundraising campaign of our 13-county diocese. The money you give to CSA helps fund individual parish projects, but it also assists all of the ministries and departments of the diocese as they continue to respond to needs in our communities. In this issue, you’ll read about how CSA funds help the Office for the Protection of Children and Youth conduct required training of children and teachers. Obviously, this is especially critical this year. CSA continues to assist with Catholic education through its schools and faith formation initiatives. And thanks to your support of CSA, our charitable agencies are able to go out every day, meeting the needy where they’re at. When you donate to CSA at your parish, it’s a reminder to all of us that we are part of the same Catholic family, bruised as we may be. Despite the challenges we face as a Catholic Church, there are still hungry people who need to be fed. There are still homeless who need shelter, and there are still people who need to be formed in the faith. Whatever you give to the CSA will help us do the work of the Gospel. In times like these, that’s the one clear truth.
The Catholic Services Appeal campaign begins soon and continues throughout the year. Remember to donate generously at your parish.
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E OF LLAG S A CO HOTO P ING INSPIR WS FROM E NE AND IOCES THE D D N E U H T D ARO IE AN OF ER RLD. WO
/ On the scene /
Knitting for refugee babies At age 86, Helen Finotti-Jenco of Sacred Heart Parish in Erie uses her expert knitting skills to create beautiful items for babies served through the Catholic Charities & Adoption Services’ Refugee Resettlement Program in Erie. She has donated about 120 baby hats, booties, blankets, mittens and sweaters since 2017.
One- on- one with the bishop
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Faith magazine | February 2019 | www.faitherie.com
Every year, Ann Badach, executive director of Catholic Charities, and Joe Haas, executive director of Catholic Charities Counseling & Adoption Services and director of the resettlement program, graciously accept the knitted items. “Helen uses her hands to provide tangible evidence of how we can love one another,” Badach says.
Bishop Lawrence Persico gathered last fall for an intimate evening of discussion and dinner with about 60 college students from around the Diocese of Erie. The discussion at Gannon University, Erie, centered on the grand jury investigation into clergy sexual abuse in six of the state’s eight Catholic dioceses. Bishop Persico told the students to intentionally live their faith if they want to help their friends and peers regain trust in the Catholic Church. He fielded questions for more than 90 minutes. “You just can’t say, ‘Trust me, let’s go to church,’” Bishop Persico told the group. “There has to be a reason for people to trust you and to trust the church.” He appreciated their presence at an evening gathering. “I think it’s safe to say you are men and women of faith, that you’re believers,” the bishop said. “If you live your faith in a way in which you demonstrate your relationship with Jesus Christ, you will give witness to your faith. If they see your example, that would be a good example of how you can lead someone back to the faith.” The students represented the following institutions: Allegheny College (Meadville), Clarion University of Pennsylvania, Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, Gannon University, Mercyhurst University (Erie), Mercyhurst North East, and Penn State Behrend (Erie).
Who’s who in DuBois? The ninth annual Grand Gala to benefit DuBois Central Catholic’s pre-school through grade 12 brought out all kinds of faces last fall. Many people enjoyed the festivities and got in the mood for the theme of the evening, “Night at the Masquerade.” Pictured, from left to right, are Sheila Clancy, Melissa Forcey and Jacqueline Starr, all parents from the Clearfield area. Clancy also is the principal of St. Francis School in Clearfield, and Forcey and Starr are married to DCC board members. Held at Luigi’s Villa in DuBois, the evening included a live auction, a grand prize drawing for $2,500 and dancing. Proceeds benefited the DCC Fund.
Hand-in-hand at the Mission of F riendship
Little ones at the Los Amiguit os Day Care Center at the Miss ion of Friendship in Mérida, Yuc each other and other people atán, Mexico, learn all about resp from around the world. The ecting Miss ion of Friendship is an outreach Archdiocese of Yucatán. Dur of both the Diocese of Erie and ing one particular lesson this the past year, each child was give poster board with an image of n a flag and, one by one, past the world. All the children held ed them on a hands in a circle and sang.
! to report past abuse or misConDuCt
by ClerGy, any employee or volunteer to the DioCese oF erie: • email erierCD@KlGates.com (independent investigators) • Call 814.451.1543 Diocese of Erie dedicated number for reports • Call local law enforcement
For more inFormation, please visit: www.erierCD.org/childprotection If a child is in immediate danger of harm, call 911.
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/ In the know with Fr. Joe /
Why do I need a
relationship with Jesus to be happy?
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Faith magazine | February 2019 | www.faitherie.com
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My first thought is rather simple. I believe I need a relationship with Jesus to be happy because I was made to be in relationship with him. I am a Catholic, a Christian. Because of that, I believe that God is my maker. I believe that I am not a random occurrence, but an intended creation of our God. What was I created for? As the Catechism of the Catholic Church puts it, “The desire for God is written in the human heart, because man is created by God and for God, and God never ceases to draw man to himself. Only in God will he find the truth and happiness he never stops searching for.” If I do what I am made for, I will feel the rightness of it down to my bones. I personally have experienced this and often meet others who have as well. I was made to know Jesus, to love him and serve him. I was created by love to be loved and I can’t be loved outside of a relationship. The second truth comes from Jesus’ talks and stories about the day of judgment. On more than a few occasions, Jesus gives an image of the moment of our judgment. We learn that Jesus knowing us is the key. Let’s look at the example from Matthew 25. In this parable, Jesus describes the kingdom of heaven as being like a wedding feast. At the end of the story, there are people who do not get into the wedding feast. The reason they are “I think what I turned away is simple: Jesus, the will be judged on bridegroom, says to them, “I do not is what I can conknow you.” trol: my effort to Obviously, I’d like the moment of judgment to go well, but there is dedicate time and more to it than that. Look at what energy to knowisn’t there at judgment: my rightness ing him better, to or my correctness. It’s about relaloving him and tionship and that makes me really, being loved by really happy. him. That makes I mess up a lot. I have held ideas about God for years that I find out are me very happy.” wrong. I’ve been wrong in my words, in my actions and even in my thoughts. For each of these, I’ve asked God’s for-
giveness, but I’m also aware that I can’t get to heaven by myself. Until Jesus gets me there (God willing!), I will always be more wrong than right about him. Imagine my relief when I recognize Father Joe Krupp that faith and happiness are first about is a former comedy embracing and maintaining a relationwriter who is now ship with God. Then I will naturally a Catholic priest. grow, through his grace, in knowing @Joeinblack and understanding him better. I think what I will be judged on is what I can control: my effort to dedicate time and energy to knowing him better, to loving him and being loved by him. That makes me very happy. I do not intend this as an excuse to stay intentionally ignorant or stop growing in our knowledge of God. If I don’t make the effort to know someone, I cannot deepen my relationship with that person. It’s true for people, and also true for God. Every day, every second, Jesus is extending his hand out to us and asks us to take it, to be in a relationship with him. We foster that relationship through personal prayer, the sacraments, reading about him, talking to him and listening to him. The more I learn of Jesus, the more I realize how extraordinary it is to be loved by him. The more time I spend reading of him, sharing my pain and struggles with him, the more I become convinced that we were made by love for love. St. Catherine of Siena put it this way: “All the way to heaven is heaven, because Jesus said, ‘I am the way.’” Enjoy another day in God’s presence. T. Gennara
Dear Father Joe: I feel like I’m a pretty happy person. Why do I need a relationship with Jesus?
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CSA FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Everything you want to know about CSA
What is the Catholic Services Appeal? The Catholic Services Appeal (CSA) is the annual fundraising campaign of the 13-county Diocese of Erie. Parishioners are asked by the bishop for financial support that extends beyond individual parishes to fund the projects, ministries and departments of the diocese. The CSA reminds us that we are all part of the same Catholic family and that the work of the diocese is the work of the church.
Are CSA funds used to pay legal fees or settlements from the sexual abuse crisis? No. In light of concerns parishioners have expressed about expenses related to the sexual abuse crisis, Bishop Lawrence Persico recently oversaw a meeting between administrators from the Finance Office, the Catholic Foundation and the Communications Office. Legal counsel also was sought. All CSA funds raised will be placed in a designated account and used exclusively and solely to support the initiatives and ministries of the diocese. No funds donated to the CSA have been or will be used to defray expenses related to the sexual abuse scandal.
Why is participation in the Catholic Services Appeal so important? By joining together, we can share the Catholic faith throughout northwestern Pennsylvania and accomplish more than any one parish can accomplish on its own. Contributions are necessary to build up the church in the Diocese of Erie and to serve those most in need.
I live outside of the Erie area. Why should I give to THE CSA? CSA funds initiatives and ministries that extend throughout the entire 10,000-square-mile diocese. Programs such as Catholic Charities, the Catholic Schools Office and the Office for the Protection of Children and Youth assist all people in every stage of life. Every diocesan office and ministry offers services throughout our region. And pastors in every parish rely on the services provided by diocesan offices.
How are parish goals calculated? This year’s total CSA goal of $4.2 million is prorated to each parish. A parish’s goal is approximately 21 percent of its three-year average of taxable income.
What happens if my parish raises more than its goal? One hundred percent of the funds collected over a parish’s diocesan goal are retained in the parish for its individual needs.
How can I make a gift? Please pledge your support by filling in a pledge card available at your parish.
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Faith magazine | February 2019 | www.faitherie.com
SPEAKERS MARISSA MONNIN, LEFT, AND TIERNEY ROBINSON OF AWARE INC. OF MERCER COUNTY, PRESENTED A CHILD PROTECTION/SAFE ENVIRONMENT IN-SERVICE FOR GRADES PRE-K THROUGH EIGHT AT ST. MICHAEL SCHOOL IN GREENVILLE, LAST FALL. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
The sex abuse scandal that has gripped the Catholic Church over the past year has had a direct impact on how the Diocese of Erie educates its educators. In an effort to ensure the continued protection of chilCINDY ZEMCIK dren, the diocese, through its Office for the Protection of Children and Youth, meets catechists and teachers on the front lines of its schools and 73 parish-based religious education programs. Cindy Zemcik, coordinator of the diocesan office, has spent most of the past year training schools and parishes on the sweeping changes made to its Policy for the Protection of Children. “We’ve done an extensive review of our parishes and schools,” Zemcik says. “Do they know how to report abuse? Are parishes offering monthly bulletin announcements on child protection? Are there posters regarding abuse prevention and support in parish and school buildings? Are volunteers and employees cleared and trained to work with children? Do they know what to look for when abuse has occurred?” Zemcik works with Msgr. Edward Lohse, vicar general and director of the Office for the Protection of Children and Youth. The current abuse crisis reinforced their long-held belief that parents need to know that parish-
A PROMISE TO PROTECT Diocese educates educators about child safety
es and schools are fully compliant with mandated child protection standards. Without contributions to the Catholic Services Appeal, Zemcik would not be able to fulfill these demanding and necessary duties. “I am willing to go to any parish and any school to figure out what works best for them to establish a good system in maintaining compliance,” Zemcik says. “How can we raise awareness of what a predator looks like? How do we keep predators from volunteering in our diocese? How do we make youth understand that when they don’t feel good about a situation, they should tell someone? How can we help parents understand the ‘grooming’ behaviors of predators?” Every year since the early 2000s, when dioceses first started to undergo independent child protection audits, the Diocese of Erie has been deemed compliant. But 2018 brought a greater sense of urgency to examine and update its own policy. Considered among the most comprehensive in the nation, the Policy for the Protection of Children includes an expanded definition section and changes in supervisory procedures and conditions for employment. It streamlines reporting procedures and expands the role of the Office for the Protection of Children and Youth. The diocese works with outside agencies to provide safe environment training to its Catholic schools and
religious education programs. It also maintains a safe environment video library. Nancy Kremm, principal of St. Michael School in Greenville, recently invited AWARE Inc., of Mercer County, to talk to children about the delicate but important issue of abuse prevention. In January, representatives of the state Attorney General’s Office visited to discuss online safety with seventhand eighth-graders and their parents. “I think this is a good year for the Catholic Services Appeal because helping our kids is on everyone’s mind,” Kremm says. Evelyn Wheeler, faith formation coordinator for the parishes and churches that make up the Oil City Catholic community, has worked closely with Zemcik to understand the latest child protection requirements. Overseeing the religious education of 109 students is time-consuming enough, let alone creating spreadsheets to keep track of volunteer clearances. “I’m not an expert, but I know who the expert is. That’s why we need Cindy [Zemcik],” Wheeler says. “Cindy has been instrumental in educating me why we need these things for the protection of our children. It’s not like we want to do this, because it’s sad, but we have to do this to protect everybody.”
I think this is a good year for the Catholic Services Appeal because helping our kids is on everyone’s mind."
YOUR CSA DOLLARS ARE AT WORK FOR THE BENEFIT OF CHILDREN IN THE DIOCESE OF ERIE.
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CSA Beyond hello Faith formation effort creates welcoming spirit
Did you know that flowers are sent to new parishioners at Church of the Beloved Disciple Parish in Grove City? In DuBois, St. Catherine of Siena and St. Michael the Archangel parishes give the family of a newly baptized child a hand-knitted blanket and welcome card. And if you join Our Lady of Mercy Parish in Harborcreek, look for an invitation to a get-together for new families. These are just a few examples of the ways parishes in the Diocese of Erie welcome people to their Catholic communities. But Deacon Steve Washek, director
To see how your Catholic Services Appeal dollars assist with faith formation, go to https://www.ErieRCD.org/faithformation.html.
LITURGY:
of faith formation for the 13-county diocese, would like to see even more efforts made in this area. In 2019, his office — thanks to Catholic Services Appeal donations — will focus on welcoming and belonging in all parishes. It’s the beginning of a four-year effort that will take parishioners beyond the first hello to a deeper, more spiritual journey together. Subsequent years will focus on catechesis (teaching the faith to people of all ages), sacramental preparation and service. “Many of us punch our clock and go to Mass and never quite belong to our parish,” Deacon Washek says. “We need people to ask themselves, ‘How
does this church become a place where I belong?’” Last fall, Deacon Washek, Bishop Lawrence Persico and members of the Faith Formation Implementation Team traveled to three locations in the diocese, proposing the formation framework. The goal is to replace the concept of religious education as beginning with
‘At the heart of what we do’
Matthew Clark coordinates many of the Masses that are celebrated in the Diocese of Erie. Just watch him as he flips through a red binder full of requests for liturgies with Bishop Lawrence Persico. Administrator of the Office of Worship, Clark plans and organizes all Masses and liturgies at which the bishop presides in the 13-county diocese. Those include Masses for confirmation,
donor appreciation, and blessings and anniversary celebrations. “The Office of Worship is here to help people worship well. Liturgy is at the heart of what we do,” Clark says. Beyond coordinating the bishop’s Masses, the office also assists the diocese’s 97 parishes in various areas. Its outreach includes offering resources for sacramental preparation. If you’ve ever attended the Chrism Mass at St. Peter Cathedral in Erie, Clark is front and center in the diocesan effort to prepare all the sacred oils that parishes use throughout the year. Clark helps with the formation of liturgical ministers, too. Over a period of a few years, he met personally with parish leaders at St. Hippolyte Parish, Frenchtown, and
MATTHEW CLARK AND HIS WIFE, DONNA, PREPARE SACRED OILS FOR DISTRIBUTION FROM THE SACRISTY AT ST. PETER CATHEDRAL, ERIE. PHOTOS BY ANNE-MARIE WELSH
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ERIE’S ST. GEORGE PARISH WELCOMED 45 WOMEN TO A RETREAT WEEKEND LAST SPRING. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Faith magazine | February 2019 | www.faitherie.com
its secondary mission church of Our Lady of Lourdes in Cochranton. He provided guidance and formation to their parish pastoral council, asking members to consider their strengths and discover areas in which they face challenges. Julie A. Hovis experienced that direct connection with the diocese and benefited from its resources. As pastoral council chairperson during Clark’s visits, she believes it helped the parish community define and express its mission. “Matt was a great source of guidance for us,” she says. “The two largest roles he played were as facilitator and mentor. It was a big, big help.” Your support of the Catholic Services Appeal helps fund the Office of Worship and the important assistance it provides parishes throughout our diocese. Learn more about the Office of Worship at https://www.ErieRCD.org/bishop/worship.html.
baptism and ending with confirmation. Beginning in early February, Deacon Washek and other faith formation representatives will meet in small parish clusters to share ideas. The process may mean a parish taking a whole new approach to the way it nurtures the Catholic faith in others. “It’s not welcoming others if you say, ‘We’ve always done it a certain way.’ We might need to change our language,” Deacon Washek says. “We could ask what there is to do in our parishes for high school graduates or young adults. Or, what about accessibility for seniors?” Faith formation is part of the pastoral planning initiative called “Prayer, Planning, Possibilities.” Major efforts already have been launched regarding vocations, Catholic schools and parish restructuring.
MICHELE INTER, LEFT, DIRECTOR OF DISABILITIES MINISTRIES FOR THE DIOCESE OF ERIE, AND PATRICE SWICK, DIRECTOR OF THE OFFICE OF SOCIAL JUSTICE AND LIFE, ATTENDED A 2018 RALLY IN HARRISBURG ADVOCATING FOR LEGISLATION THAT PROHIBITS THE ABORTION OF ANY CHILD SOLELY DUE TO A DIAGNOSIS OF POSSIBLE DOWN SYNDROME.
Every life is worth living Catholic social teaching promotes justice, a preferential option for the poor, and probably most important, the dignity of all life. Every day, staff members of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Erie work to ensure and promote life at all levels. Patrice Swick and Michele Inter are prime examples of that outreach. Swick is director of the Social Justice and Life Office; Inter is the director of the Office of Persons with Disabilities and Deaf Ministries. “Advocacy is an important aspect of the work of my office,” Swick says. “It is a way to put your faith into action and take action for those who cannot.” Her office educates parishes and individuals in the diocese on matters of social justice and maintaining a consistent ethic of life. Inter coordinates the ministry with the deaf and hard of hearing to support the religious growth of individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing and deaf-blind. Her ministry provides days
We are not afraid to use our voices to speak for the unheard.”
of prayer and reflection, an annual retreat, adult Bible study/religious education, sign interpretation for children who are deaf in regular religious education programs, and sign interpretation for some diocesan events. In this role, she supports the diocesan deaf ministry board that meets monthly to plan events for the deaf community. Starting in Lent, a sign language class is expected to be offered to the public. Inter also directs the Office of Persons with Disabilities Ministries. Its mission is to include people with disabilities in the fellowship and spirituality of the church. According to Inter, such outreach celebrates that “every life is worth living. You have to see the person and not the disability, not the hearing aids.” Swick’s ministry is similar, she says, in that we must not only see the poverty or homelessness, but the individual. “In that person,” Swick says, “you see Christ.” Swick and Inter have collaborated on a few projects together. Their desire to promote life is why they went to Harrisburg in spring of 2018 to advocate for legislation that would prohibit abortion due to a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome. In the fall of 2018, Swick provided StrengthFinders training for the deaf ministry board to help the group recognize and embrace its strengths and use those in their ministries. Says Inter: “We are not afraid to use our voices to speak for the unheard. We don’t fix, we accompany them.” Swick is available for advocacy training and to offer information on Catholic social teaching. She can be reached at 814-824-1254 or at pswick@ErieRCD.org. Inter is available for advocacy and education for and about persons with disabilities and can be reached at 814-824-1257 or at minter@ErieRCD.org.
Your CSA dollars benefit these and other life ministries.
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Catholic Services Appeal CSA unites the 97 parishes in our diocese in a common effort to share the Catholic faith. This year’s CSA goal is more than $4.2 million, which helps to fund the projects, ministries and departments run by the Diocese of Erie.
$1,013,000/EDUCATION SERVICES includes the Catholic Schools Office support for 33 Catholic schools. Coordinates the work of religious education programs for youth and young adults, youth ministry, campus ministry, chastity education and natural family planning. Includes the Office of Faith Formation and scholarship assistance.
$430,000/THE FINANCIAL SERVICES OFFICE assists parishes, schools and affiliated agencies to acquire and administer necessary temporal goods prudently, professionally and in accordance with church law. It offers guidance to clergy and parish staff regarding property and health insurance.
$711,000/CATHOLIC CHARITIES provides health care, social and pastoral services for those in need, regardless of faith. Joy Ministries offers people with intellectual and developmental disabilities an opportunity to grow in their faith. The Social Justice and Life Office educates on matters of social justice and dignity of life. The Family Life Office provides resources to prepare and enhance marriage and family relationships.
$360,000/THE COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE evangelizes through its website, Faith magazine, social media and diocesan e-news. All Catholic households registered in parishes receive Faith magazine free of charge.
$701,000/PASTORAL SERVICES includes the Office of Worship, which offers workshops and help for all aspects of liturgy, the spiritual formation and training of liturgical ministers, and the preparation of parish and diocesan liturgies. The office supports presiders, music directors, liturgy committees and pastoral councils by encouraging the full, active and conscious participation by all people in every liturgical celebration. Under Pastoral Services, the Diocese of Erie is committed to the PROTECTION OF CHILDREN. Through the Office for Protection of Children and Youth, all diocesan, parish, Catholic school and agency personnel and volunteers complete the “Creating a Safe Environment” training and obtain appropriate clearances.
$220,000/CLERGY SERVICES operates in the Chancery, which provides guidance and assistance to parishes, institutions, clergy and people throughout the diocese. The permanent diaconate provides outreach to those in need through ministry of the Word, the liturgy and works of charity. Priests and deacons receive ongoing education on various pastoral ministries. $220,000/DEVELOPMENT SERVICES grant to the Catholic Foundation of Northwest Pennsylvania for operating expenses and costs related to CSA and other diocesan fundraising. The foundation includes trained fundraising professionals and is led by an independent Catholic lay board of directors. $140,000/THE TRIBUNAL OFFICE is a resource for persons seeking annulments and pastoral ministers who prepare couples for marriage or assist persons seeking an annulment. It offers classes for priests, deacons and lay ministers.
$440,000/FACILITIES AND RISK MANAGEMENT is a resource to parishes on physical plant matters, safety issues and accident prevention, plus environmental and regulatory compliance. It provides guidance on construction and renovation projects, when appropriate.
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seminarians THE CATHOLIC SERVICES APPEAL HELPS THE DIOCESE OF ERIE FULFILL ITS MISSION TO EVANGELIZE, EDUCATE, SERVE, PROCLAIM THE WORD AND CELEBRATE THE SACRAMENTS. 16
Faith magazine | February 2019 | www.faitherie.com
164
priests
RK ST. MA
approximately
200,000 Catholics
CSA
Development Services $220,000
Facilities Management
Educational Services
$440,000
$1,013,000
Financial Services HOW YOUR $4.235 MILLION
$430,000
IN CSA DONATIONS IS USED
Tribunal Office $140,000
Catholic Charities
Communications
$711,000
$360,000
Clergy Services $220,000
Pastoral Services $701,000
COUNTLESS
people in need More than 7,100 Catholic school students (pre-K to 12) at 33 schools
65
deacons and 11 deacon candidates
97 parishes in 13 counties 17
CSA
THE PERSONAL TOUCH
Punxsy school reinvigorated after extended review
Founded in 1892, Ss. Cosmas According to Signorino, his disand Damian School has been edcussions focused on challenges ucating children in the Punxand how the school communisutawney community for more ty might overcome them. He than 125 years. even met with a number of Its mission, as with all Cathinterested community leaders olic schools in the 13 counties and longtime school supporters. of the Diocese of Erie, is to pro“We really wanted to get to the DR. SAM SIGNORINO vide a faith-centered education that root cause of enrollment decline,” empowers its students to reach their full Msgr. Riccardo says. “He [Signorino] adpotential spiritually, intellectually, physically, dressed the issues we are facing.” At the close of the school year in June, Siemotionally and socially. When the school faced challenges of decreasgnorino presented a number of recommening enrollment in the fall of 2017, Msgr. Joseph dations, many of which were put in place for Riccardo, pastor of Ss. Cosmas and Damian the start of the 2018-19 school year. Others Parish, called the Catholic Schools Office for are expected to be implemented in the future. some assistance. Since the beginning of the current academic He got that and more. year, the enrollment decline has stopped at Ss. The subsequent partnership between Msgr. Cosmas and Damian. In fact, there has been Riccardo and Dr. Samuel Signorino, assistant a slight increase. Additionally, the school exsuperintendent of school personnel, solidified panded its pre-school program and now has their friendship — and the path of the school. a waiting list. From January through June 2018, Signorino Without support from the Catholic Services traveled from Erie to Punxsutawney, spending Appeal, such personal outreach may not have been possible. one to three days a week at the site. Oftentimes, “Sam is a great individual, very knowledgehe stayed overnight at the rectory and shared meals with Msgr. Riccardo as he charted out able, but very gentle,” Msgr. Riccardo says. his week’s plans. “The staff really liked him. He was very helpful He met regularly with teachers and school to them.” administrators, attended Mass with the commuThe connection will likely continue, with nity and talked to Pastoral Council members. Signorino making occasional visits back to Ss. He observed classrooms and also kept several Cosmas and Damian. appointments with parents to discuss their “I felt very welcomed by the entire school families’ experiences at the school and parish. community,” Signorino says. CSA dollars help fund the Catholic Schools Office as it supports and provides services to more than 7,100 pre-K through 12th grade students at 23 elementary schools, three middle schools and seven high schools.
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Faith magazine | February 2019 | www.faitherie.com
BEYOND THE Churches are the spiritual homes of some 200,000 Catholics in northwestern Pennsylvania. And like all homes, the bricks and mortar — not to mention roofs and carpets — start to age and fail. The buildings that make up a parish community require upkeep that is all too familiar to most homeowners. That, of course, means an investment of money, especially if those buildings are 50, 75 or more than 100 years old. Fortunately for all parishes in the Diocese of Erie, there’s an opportunity to raise the necessary funds to pay for expensive repairs and/or upgrades. When parishioners come together and donate more than the parish’s annual Catholic Services Appeal goal, the church gets to keep the extra money. Two parishes in the diocese — one in North East in Erie County, and another in West Middlesex in Mercer County — have benefited from parishioner generosity. Their extra CSA dollars have helped pay for projects that fall outside the parishes’ annual budget.
CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD, WEST MIDDLESEX PHOTO BY MELINDA ISACHSEN
GOAL
How do parishes use CSA to pay for improvements?
For Father Thomas groups, as well as for funeral dinners Brooks, pastor of St. Gregand lunches. ory Thaumaturgus Parish Other parish CSA projects at the in North East, the bonus North East parish have included the CSA monies meant imaddition of a wheelchair lift, new carproving the church sound peting and more parking space. system and completing a “People here really like the CSA necessary kitchen renovabecause they like to see things get FATHER THOMAS BROOKS tion project. done,” Father Brooks says. “It’s really The sound system inbeen a great blessing.” cludes a loop in the main church and Church of the Good choir loft that can be programmed Shepherd Parish in West into someone’s hearing aide. HelpMiddlesex also has been ing the hearing-impaired to fully able to check things participate in the Mass is the greatoff its wish list, thanks est benefit. to CSA. Father Glenn “It is now loud and clear. The new Whitman, pastor, says system is fantastic,” Father Brooks that 2018 was all about FATHER GLENN WHITMAN says. technology. Previously, St. Gregory also used All parish buildings excess CSA funds to finish the finow have Wi-Fi accessibility, and nal piece of its kitchen renovation religious education classrooms and project. The work included adding larger gathering areas now offer new appliances, new flooring and projection capabilities and smart an updated fire suppression system televisions. over the stove. “It gives more flexibility to the For the St. Gregory community, teachers,” Father Whitman says. as for most families, the kitchen and Additionally, the parish can use the dining area is an important gathering new technology to project memorial place. Theirs is used by various social videos during funeral luncheons.
ST. GREGORY OF THAUMATURGUS CHURCH, NORTH EAST PHOTO BY RICH PAPALIA
CSA FACT THE 2018 CATHOLIC SERVICES APPEAL RAISED MORE THAN $6 MILLION DIOCESANWIDE. $1.8 MILLION OF THE TOTAL AMOUNT RAISED LAST YEAR REMAINED IN PARISHES.
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CSA NO. 1 PRIORITY IS WORKING TOGETHER FOR SAFETY Caitlin Scott knows that the 85 children in the child center she runs at Our Lady, Queen of the Americas Church in Conneaut Lake are safer now, thanks to the collaboration between the pastor and the Facilities Office of the Diocese of Erie. Recent upgrades made to the fire alarm and security systems at the Crawford County parish directly impacted the Conneaut Lake Child Care Center, which rents space in the lower level of the religious education building of the church. “It was a slight inconvenience for a period of an hour or two when they [Father David Carter, pastor, and Russ Rydzewski, diocesan director of facilities and risk management] would come through to look at things, but it was beneficial for everyone,” Scott says. “We have more peace of mind now that there is a system in place. With the new fire alarm system, we are alerted if there is a fire anywhere on the campus. The whole place is connected now.” Donations to the Catholic Services Appeal make it possible for diocesan offices, like Rydzewski’s, to aid parishes throughout the diocese. When Father Carter first was appointed in 2017 to Our Lady, Queen of the Americas, he knew he needed some guidance in assessing the sprawling church grounds, which include a main church, the connecting religious education classrooms and child care center, and a cemetery. “I said to Russ, ‘Tell me everything that’s wrong with the building and grounds and we will go prioritize everything. The fire system was first,” Father Carter says. Rydzewski serves as a resource to parishes on physical plant matters and concerns such as loss control, employee safety and accident prevention, and environmental and regulatory compliance. He also evaluates and offers insight on construction and renovation projects, when appropriate. At Father Carter’s invitation, Rydzewski surveyed the buildings and grounds, focusing on limiting liability and assessing safety concerns. His recommendations were presented to the parish grounds committee. “He [Russ] gave me practical issues to deal with, important areas such as fire protection, Americans with Disabilities Act requirements, recommendations for upgrades and ongoing maintenance,” Father Carter says. “I found it very helpful. You can wait until something breaks, or you can be proactive.” 20
Faith magazine | February 2019 | www.faitherie.com
RUSS RYDZEWSKI, LEFT, DIOCESAN DIRECTOR OF FACILITIES AND RISK MANAGEMENT, STANDS OUTSIDE OUR LADY, QUEEN OF THE AMERICAS CHURCH, CONNEAUT LAKE, WITH FATHER DAVID CARTER, PASTOR. PHOTOS BY MARY SOLBERG
Besides facilities advice, Father Carter also has received help from the diocesan Finance Office, Human Resources and Chancery, all of which are funded by CSA. For Rydzewski, who has worked for the diocese for 24 years, making connections between pastors and the diocese is invaluable. With hundreds of parish, school and rectory buildings throughout the diocese, there are a lot of questions concerning maintenance, facilities management and government regulations. “I am an available resource,” he says.
FATHER DAVID CARTER AND RUSS RYDZEWSKI MEET REGULARLY WITH CAITLIN SCOTT, DIRECTOR OF THE CONNEAUT LAKE CHILD CARE CENTER. THE CENTER OPERATES ON CHURCH PROPERTY.
… from the desk of the executive director
ANOTHER WAY TO GIVE: Catholic Foundation of Northwest Pennsylvania
The Catholic Foundation of Northwest Pennsylvania inspires and unites Catholics in supporting their faith community and creating a Catholic legacy. We assist donors in providing for the long-term needs of the Catholic ministries in their community. Allow me to address some commonly asked questions that may shed light on what we're about.
Lisa R. Louis, CFRE
Executive Director
WHAT IS A COMMUNITY FOUNDATION? A community foundation is a tax-exempt, publicly supported philanthropic organization with a long-term goal of building endowments in a geographic area. The Catholic Foundation of Northwest Pennsylvania, like other community foundations, is a grant-making charity that brings together the financial resources of individuals, families and businesses to support nonprofit organizations in their communities.
WHAT MAKES THE CATHOLIC FOUNDATION OF NORTHWEST PENNSYLVANIA UNIQUE? Originally founded through generous donations to the 2001-03 diocesan capital campaign, the foundation is a 501(c)(3) corporation led by a lay-person governing board of directors representing the three geographic regions of the Diocese of Erie. We work to promote socially responsible investing and connect generous donors with impactful and faithful organizations. We understand the value of stewardship and the unique desire of Catholics to provide a legacy of faith for future generations.
WHO DOES THE CATHOLIC FOUNDATION SERVE? The Catholic Foundation helps donors create meaningful impact through planned giving and charitable fund management. We also work closely with parishes, schools and charities to build a vibrant philanthropic plan to support their ministry as a source of abundant blessing.
WHY CREATE AN ENDOWMENT?
CATHOLIC FOUNDATION OF NORTHWEST PENNSYLVANIA BOARD OF DIRECTORS RUTHANNE BEIGHLEY – Chair
Notre Dame Parish, Hermitage
KAREN BURTON-HORSTMAN – Vice Chair/Treasurer St. Jude the Apostle Parish, Erie
JOHN HUDSON – Treasurer
St. Joseph Parish, Sharon
ROBERT CROWLEY
St. Joseph Parish, Warren
THOMAS HOFFMAN II
St. Peter Cathedral, Erie
Monies placed in such a fund are referred to as the principal. That money remains untouched, with only the income earned through its investment used to address stated needs. This ensures the availability of the funding in the future. Once established, an endowment also can serve as a channel for future giving.
WHO HAS ACCESS TO CATHOLIC FOUNDATION FUNDS? Endowment funds held by the Catholic Foundation are restricted for the intended purpose stated in a legal agreement by the individual or organization initiating the endowment. The foundation’s volunteer lay board of directors oversees the governance and proper use of distributions from foundation endowments. All Catholics can experience the joy of charitable giving. The Catholic Foundation makes it easy for donors to connect with the greatest needs and make every dollar count. More information about the Catholic Foundation of Northwest Pennsylvania is available from Lisa Louis, executive director, at 814-824-1237.
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Catholic Foundation of Northwest Pennsylvania
ENDOWMENT FUNDS Diocesan Endowments •Catholic Charities Endowment •Catholic Education Endowment •Clergy Health and Welfare Endowment •Evangelization Endowment
Designated Endowments •Anonymous Donor Endowment for St. Francis Xavier Parish •Bishop Donald W. Trautman “Feed My Sheep” Endowment •Bishop Lawrence T. Persico Endowment for Pastoral Ministry •Burton-Horstman Family Endowment in Memory of G. David Burton •David J. Murphy Endowment •Dawn and Dan Schaaf Family Endowment •Farrell Christopher Home Corporation Endowment •Fox and Cenedella Endowment •Immaculate Heart of Mary Education Endowment •James “J.E.” O’Mara Memorial Endowment • L’Arche Erie Endowment in Memory of Donna Faye Carr and Sister Barbara Ann Karsznia, OSB •Mary Fabrizio McCarthy Education Endowment •Michael C. McCloskey Memorial Endowment •Monsignor Edward J. Zeitler Endowment • Monsignor John B. Hagerty Endowment Scholarship Fund for Kennedy Catholic High School •Monsignor Robert Malene Endowment •Monsignor Salvatore Mitchell Education Endowment •Reverend J. Thomas Dugan Memorial Endowment • Reverend Leo J. Gallina Endowment for Saint Bernard of Clairvaux Church •Reverend Leo J. Gallina Endowment for Saint Boniface Church •Robert and Pauline Osmer Endowment •Robert M. Gallivan Charitable Endowment •Sacred Heart Parish Exterior Beautification Endowment •St. Thomas More Club “Fr. Pete” Endowment •Sister Denise Mosier Memorial Scholarship Endowment •Stark Family Endowment •Thomas J. and Mary H. Loftus Charitable Endowment •Toohey Family Endowment
Church and School Endowments • Dr. Howard R. Ferguson Jr. Scholarship Endowment (St. Joseph, Warren) •Evergreen Endowment (St. Boniface, Kersey)
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Faith magazine | February 2019 | www.faitherie.com
The Catholic Foundation offers people of faith a way to leave a legacy uniquely aligned with Catholic values and beliefs. We are honored to steward your gifts to the following funds:
•Holy Redeemer Parish Endowment • James L. and Mary Fabrizio McCarthy Endowment for St. Patrick Church •John and Barbara Jacquel Endowment for Our Lady of Mercy Parish •Our Lady of the Lake Parish Endowment •Sacred Heart Education Endowment •St. Anthony-St. Bernadette Endowment •St. Brigid Church Education Endowment •St. Callistus Church Cemetery Endowment •St. Callistus Church Endowment •St. Callistus Church Organ Endowment • St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Education Endowment for Seton Catholic School •St. Francis Xavier Church Endowment •St. Gregory Thaumaturgus Parish Endowment •St. Gregory Thaumaturgus School Endowment •St. Mark Church Emporium Endowment •St. Michael Church DuBois Endowment •St. Patrick Church Endowment •St. Peter Cathedral Church Capital Endowment •St. Peter Cathedral Church Operating Expense Endowment •St. Peter Cathedral Education Endowment •St. Thomas the Apostle Parish Memorial Scholarship Endowment • St. Thomas the Apostle Parish Ministry Education Grant Endowment •St. Venantius Church Endowment • Venango Catholic High School Endowment
Catholic Organization Endowments •Catholic Charities Emerging Needs Endowment •Erie Diocesan Cursillo Movement Endowment • Joe Haas and Joe McCallion Building and Grounds Endowment (Camp Notre Dame) • Monsignor Lawrence T. Speice Memorial Scholarship Endowment (Camp Notre Dame) •Paul F. Speice Program Endowment (Camp Notre Dame) •St. Martin Center Endowment •Sister Benita Repasky Endowment (Prince of Peace Center)
Join us by adding to these funds, in any amount, or by creating your own endowment. Donating to an existing fund is easy, and there are options for everyone. For more information, contact Lisa Louis, executive director, at 814-824-1237 or llouis@cfnwpa.org.
ENDOWMENTS PUT INTO ACTION BRINGING IN NATIONAL RESOURCES
PERPETUAL HELP
Loftus Endowment funds future needs
Taking a thoughtful, strategic approach to solving problems is nothing new for Tom Loftus. A retired industry executive, the Erie native now uses the skills he honed as a business leader to help people in his family’s hometown. He and his wife, Chris, are partnering with the Catholic Foundation of Northwestern Pennsylvania to make a lasting difference. The couple returned to Erie after living for 20 years in Cary, N.C., where Tom Loftus served as senior vice president of Lord Corporation. They soon had an epiphany that focused their intentions. “In North Carolina, we saw a lot of affluence, growth, people doing very well with their families. And then when we came back home, I saw an article in the newspaper that I’ll never forget about the huge percentage of children in Erie living below the poverty line,” Tom Loftus recalls. “That started to move us more in the direction of helping with the needs that exist in our community. Catholic Charities, it seemed to us, does a lot to fill those needs.” After a careful process of deliberation, the couple chose to work with the Catholic Foundation to establish the Thomas J. and Mary H. Loftus Chari-
TOM AND CHRIS LOFTUS, SEATED, CHOSE TO WORK WITH THE CATHOLIC FOUNDATION TO ESTABLISH AN ENDOWMENT TO SUPPORT CATHOLIC CHARITIES IN THE DIOCESE OF ERIE. ALSO PICTURED, STANDING FROM LEFT, ARE: LISA LOUIS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE CATHOLIC FOUNDATION; BISHOP LAWRENCE PERSICO; AND ANN BADACH, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF CATHOLIC CHARITIES. PHOTO BY ANNE-MARIE WALSH
table Endowment to support Catholic Charities’ work throughout the diocese. “By putting enough money in an endowment, it’s a gift that can go on giving for some time. Many of the problems Catholic Charities deals with aren’t easily solved and can go from generation to generation,” Tom Loftus says, noting that the funding from the endowment will continue along with the needs. “I would hope that it improves the quality of life for as many people as it can touch. Maybe it gives someone an opportunity they have never had before. I don’t expect big miracles, but I’m hoping lots of people are improved through this,” he says. For Tom and his wife, part of the appeal of working with the Catholic Foundation is the confidence that their intentions will be honored. “With the money invested where Catholic principles are going to be applied in perpetuity, then I’m thinking that’s what I want,” he says.
The Catholic Foundation in April 2018 provided an education grant for a one-day workshop, “Families at the Center of Faith Formation,” featuring John Roberto, a national leader in the area of family catechesis. He shared practical ideas and suggestions with 100 representatives of 42 parishes in the Diocese of Erie. The faith formation leaders were able to immediately use the information in their ministries with parents and families in the Diocese of Erie. Sister Nancy Fischer, SSJ, director JOHN ROBERTO for small faith communities and interim director of religious education in the diocese, arranged the program. “Funding from the Catholic Foundation made it affordable for people in parishes to attend,” Sister Nancy says.
KEEPING UP WITH TECHNOLOGY “We knew we needed a new website, but we didn’t have the budget for new projects,” explains Betsy Ochs, principal at St. Joseph School in Lucinda. So she applied for an education technology grant from the Catholic Foundation. With that funding, and other resources through the Communications Office, the school’s new website quickly became a reality. Ochs is thrilled, saying, “The new site is an important part of our strategic plan and a blessing to our school and students.” Check out the school’s latest video and other resources on its new website at www.stjosephlucinda.com.
RESPONDING TO CRISES In 2018, the Diocese of Erie responded to the opioid crisis by creating its own opioid task force. The Catholic Foundation — through its Evangelization Endowment — funded all participant materials for an opioid panel discussion at Gannon University, Erie, as well as printed resources for all parishes. The task force provided practical and community-specific information on opioids to clergy so they could better respond to individuals and families affected by the epidemic. According to Father James McCormick, pastor of St. James Parish, Erie: “I think people understand that the bishop and the diocese recognize this crisis." JOE HAAS, CENTER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CATHOLIC CHARITIES COUNSELING AND ADOPTION SERVICES, DISCUSSES CHALLENGES OF THE OPIOID EPIDEMIC.
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February 24th * 10AM-1PM * Bayfront Convention Center * 1 Sassafras Pier
Enjoy samples from various coffee shops and vote for Erie’s Best Coffee! Basket Raffle * Live Music * Children’s Activities TICKETS: $10 advanced, $15 at the door ages 12 and under free Erie Federal Credit Union (3503 Peach St.) Mill Creek Coffee Co. (1222 Linden Ave.) www.smcerie.org All proceeds benefit 24
Faith magazine | February 2019 | www.faitherie.com
Beginning this spring, the Diocese of Erie is expected to distribute more than $2 million in tuition grants to qualifying students attending Catholic schools in northwest Pennsylvania. The grants are made possible through the non-profit scholarship organization known as the STAR Foundation, which accepts donations from businesses that participate in Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program. “Some kids would not be able to be in our Catholic schools without this help,” said Father Nick Rouch, vicar for education in the Diocese of Erie. “The scholarships help parents make that decision to keep kids in Catholic schools.” Recently, Northwest Bank Regional President Jim Martin presented Father Rouch and Bishop Lawrence Persico with more than $128,000 for STAR Foundation scholarships. Since 2001, Northwest has given $1.5 million toward STAR Foundation scholarships. Headquartered in Warren, Northwest is committed to the same region that encompasses the 13-county Diocese of Erie. Tax credit money that Northwest receives is well spent on Catholic education, Martin says. “This allows us to give back to Catholic education and parents in these communities who can’t afford to send their children to Catholic schools. That’s why we’ve done it and why we’ll continue to do it,” Martin said. At press time, the diocese was still receiving donations to the STAR Foundation; qualified parents are currently applying for tuition scholarships for the 2019-20 academic year. Chuck Banducci, director of School Financial Services, urges parents to continue to apply for tuition scholarships. Application forms are available at Catholic schools in the Diocese of Erie or on the diocesan website at https:// www.ErieRCD.org/schools/tuition.html. PICTURED, FROM LEFT, ARE: NORTHWEST REGIONAL PRESIDENT JIM MARTIN, BISHOP LAWRENCE PERSICO, AND FATHER NICHOLAS ROUCH, VICAR FOR EDUCATION.
/ Local News /
DIOCESAN COMMUNICATIONS STAFF, FROM LEFT: ERICA ERWIN, MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST AND GENERAL MANAGER OF NWPACATHOLIC.COM; MARY SOLBERG, FAITH MAGAZINE EDITOR AND ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS; ANNE-MARIE WELSH, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS; BRENDA WILLIAMS, SALES AND CIRCULATION MANAGER; RICH PAPALIA, WEBMASTER; AND ELIZABETH BUTTERFIELD, GRAPHIC AND WEB DESIGNER
COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE, FAITH MAGAZINE RECOGNIZED The staff of the Diocese of Erie’s Communications Office — led by Director Anne-Marie Welsh — garnered five Niagara Awards last fall from the northwestern Pennsylvania chapter of the Public Relations Society of America. Besides four gold awards, the diocese took “Best of Show” for having earned the highest score among all gold Niagara winners. “I like to say that we’re small but mighty,” Welsh said. “We have a lot going on, but everyone is very committed. We’re very happy and honored to receive the recognition.” Awards were received in the Internal Communications category, for work on the “Pastoral Response to the Opioid Crisis,” an effort overseen by the diocesan Opioid Task Force under the leadership of Ann Badach, executive director of Catholic Charities; and in the Community Relations category for collaboration with Bishop Lawrence Persico and Msgr. Edward Lohse, vicar general, regarding the release of information concerning the diocesan update to its Policy for the Protection of Children. In addition, Faith magazine received two Niagaras in the Publications category, one for its overall efforts, and another for the special edition dedicated to the Pennsylvania 40th Statewide Grand Jury Report. The Diocese of Erie was among 16 entities recognized by the PRSA in 2018. Niagara Award judges from 10 regions, including Pittsburgh, New York City, Cleveland and Charleston, S.C., selected the winners.
GANNON LAUNCHES NEW CYBER MAJORS Gannon University, a diocesan institution, has launched two new cyber majors and is moving forward in its plans to design a data center and academic building. Last fall, the school’s trustees approved majors in cyber engineering and cyber security, as well as the funding for a $20 million building to be housed at 131 W. Ninth St., a former Verizon structure purchased by Gannon in 2016. The new building will be called I-HACK, an acronym for the Institute of Health and Cyber Knowledge. “The entire world has just begun
engaging with what they call the ‘Industrial Revolution 4.0,’ and cybersecurity, AI [artificial intelligence] applications and the internet … are major parts of the process,” said Fong Mak, a professor of electrical and computer engineering and interim program director for the new cyber programs. “The marketplace is desperate for talent with these technical, design and creative skills, and Gannon will be preparing students to meet that demand.” Students in the cyber programs will have the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree in either area. A criminal justice major can earn a minor in cybersecurity, beginning in the fall of 2019.
WALTER IWANENKO JR., GANNON UNIVERSITY’S VICE PRESIDENT OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS, ANNOUNCES DETAILS OF THE SCHOOL’S NEW CYBER MAJORS AND ITS NEW I-HACK BUILDING IN DOWNTOWN ERIE. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
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SEX ABUSE CRISIS RESULTS IN FOLLOWING A YEAR OF HORRIFIC TRUTHS REVEALED ABOUT THE SEXUAL ABUSE OF CHILDREN IN THE CATH-
‘uncomfortable’ conversations spiritual retreat compensation fund papal meeting
OLIC CHURCH, ERIE BISHOP LAWRENCE PERSICO HAS MAINTAINED A SINGULAR FOCUS ON VICTIMS.
He meets personally with those who have been violated and their families, as well as priests and parishioners. He does all of this while walking through the virtual legal and emotional minefield created by the release of the 2018 Pennsylvania grand jury report implicating hundreds of priests in the assault of more than 1,000 children over a 70-year period. “I remain committed to transparency and doing everything I can to assist victims of sexual abuse in the church,” Bishop Persico said. In December, he participated in the fittingly titled public forum series “Uncomfortable Conversations,” hosted by Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. About 200 people attended the one-hour discussion between the bishop and Tribune-Review reporter Deb Erdley of Greensburg. Bishop Persico was the subject of some of Erdley’s previous coverage, having distinguished himself as the only bishop in Pennsylvania to testify personally before the members of the investigative grand jury. He also is considered to be the only bishop in the United States to include lay people along with clergy on the list of people who have been credibly accused of actions that disqualify them from working with children. Erdley delved into a full range of topics, ranging from why the bishop cooperated with the grand jury to the potential damage of the scandal on the church as a whole. She also asked about the current criticism of Pennsylvania bishops for offering victims’ compensation funds versus favoring a widening of the statute of limitations window for abuse victims. A bill to suspend the statute of limitations retroactively was passed in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, but remains stalled, at press time, in the Senate. 26
Faith magazine | February 2019 | www.faitherie.com
STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARY SOLBERG
“I have victims in the diocese who are 87 years old,” Bishop Persico said. “It’s too long for them to wait for the legislation on the statute of limitations to go through the court system.” COMPENSATION FOR VICTIMS Bishop Persico has long supported abolishing the criminal statute of limitations for sexual abuse claims, and he agrees with the grand jury’s proposed amendment of the civil statute of limitations, as long as that amendment applies equally to everyone, not just clergy. But he’s still concerned about abuse survivors whose time-barred cases cannot be litigated and who may face the prospect of a long legal battle. So, he approved the launch of the Diocese of Erie’s Survivors’ Reparation Fund. It will be administered beginning in mid-February by Kenneth Feinberg, one of the nation’s leading experts in mediation. The fund will offer time-barred survivors of sex abuse in the diocese a straightforward, non-contentious path to obtain monetary compensation. “Although money will never fully heal the deep wounds felt by survivors, this fund is a crucial step in the diocese’s ongoing reconciliation and reform efforts,” Bishop Persico said. Money for Phase I of the fund will be provided through a new line of credit obtained by the diocese and secured by historic investments. No dollars donated to any parish, school or charitable cause within the diocese will be used by the compensation fund. For full details of the Survivors’ Reparation Fund, go to
BISHOP LAWRENCE PERSICO MEETS WITH MEDIA IN DECEMBER.
Pope Francis has asked each participating bishop to meet with abuse survivors before going to Rome. At least one victim would agree. Jim VanSickle, who was abused by a priest while attending Bradford Central Christian High School in the Diocese of Erie, asked Bishop Persico during the “Uncomfortable Conversations” event what he would do for victims who maintain their faith despite abandoning the church itself. “We really need to do some outreach for people who have been abused. They’re still Catholic and they’re still a part of the family,” the bishop said. “We need to find a way to let them know they are loved.”
www.ErieRCD.org and click on Bishop Persico’s recent statements. “It is important to me that victims can access the fund in a timely and efficient manner,” the bishop explained. PRIVATE MEETINGS Bishop Persico also has kept his eye on the needs of parishioners, many of whom are reeling from the knowledge that priests they knew and loved committed heinous acts against children. Accompanied by members of the diocesan Pastoral Response Team, under the auspices of Catholic Charities, the bishop has met with parishioners from three parishes. Each parish requested that the bishop visit and address their concerns. According to Ann Badach, executive director of Catholic Charities, “I believe that he [Bishop Persico] wants to make sure that people have clarity and the assurance that he is working very hard to rebuild the trust that many have lost.” NEED FOR REFLECTION, SELF-EVALUATION In light of the abuse crisis, Pope Francis recommended that all U.S. Catholic bishops attend a spiritual retreat at Mundelein Seminary in Chicago. Bishop Persico was among those in attendance Jan. 2-8. The pope offered the retreat services of 84-year-old Capuchin Father Raniero Cantalamessa, who has served as the preacher of the papal household since 1980. “Before we can do what we’re called to do, we needed to recollect and to spend time in silence,” Bishop Persico said. “It was important to be reminded of our role as shepherds and being open to the Word of God. That’s the only perspective from which we can begin to bring about healing.” Additionally, Pope Francis requested that the heads of all the world’s bishops’ conferences, the leaders of the Eastern Catholic churches and representatives of the leadership groups of men and women religious address the crisis at the Vatican Feb. 21-25. The unprecedented meeting will focus on three areas: responsibility, accountability and transparency.
BISHOP LAWRENCE PERSICO MEETS WITH TRIBUNEREVIEW REPORTER DEB ERDLEY DURING THE DEC. 4 “UNCOMFORTABLE CONVERSATIONS” EVENT AT EDINBORO UNIVERSITY.
CAPUCHIN FATHER RANIERO CANTALAMESSA CNS PHOTO
NEWSPAPER RECOGNIZES BISHOP, ABUSE VICTIM The Erie Times-News/GoErie.com recently recognized Bishop Lawrence Persico and Jim VanSickle, a Pittsburgh resident and sexual abuse survivor, among their 2018 selections for people of the year for their actions amid the sexual abuse crisis. Bishop Persico “undertook a policy of radical transparency” in his response to the crisis in the 13-county Diocese of Erie, the newspaper wrote, starting with the publication of the names and of clergy and lay people listed as “disqualified from working with children.” BISHOP LAWRENCE PERSICO AND JIM VANSICKLE, AN ABUSE SURVIVOR, SHAKE HANDS AT A PUBLIC FORUM IN EDINBORO, DEC. 4, 2018.
DIOCESE RANKED NO. 1 IN PA FOR ONLINE FINANCIAL TRANSPARENCY Voice of the Faithful (VOTF) — a national grassroots movement of Catholics responding since 2002 to the sexual abuse crisis in the Catholic Church — has ranked the Diocese of Erie No. 1 among all eight Pennsylvania dioceses for its online financial reporting standards. Additionally, VOTF ranked Erie among the top 15 dioceses in the nation for its online financial transparency. More than 170 dioceses were surveyed for the Voice of the Faithful’s 2018 report, titled “Measuring and Ranking Diocesan Online Financial Transparency.” “This is a good indicator of how we are helping people see what we are doing. It keeps us on our toes,” Bishop Lawrence Persico said. The Massachusetts-based organization conducts the survey annually, but the report took on more urgency as dioceses responded to the expanding sex abuse scandal. To read the full 2018 financial transparency report, go to http://www.votf.org/.
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/ Things to do / Knights of Columbus Council #4121 at St. Julia Parish, Erie, will host a breakfast to honor seminarians Feb. 3 at St. Mark Catholic Center, 429 E. Grandview Blvd., Erie. Mass will be at St. Mark's chapel at 9 a.m., with breakfast to follow. The cost is $10 per person. For reservations, call Bill Lenart at 814-838-1775 or e-mail stickamondo@verizon.net. Retreats are scheduled February through March at Bethany Retreat Center, Frenchville. Personal Days of Renewal will be offered Feb. 4-8 and March 6-8. An 11th Step Retreat also is scheduled March 15-17 for people in 12Step Recovery programs. More info: www.bethanyretreatcenter.org or call 814-263-4855.
Join couples and singles for a pre-Lenten retreat March 1-2 at the St. Thomas More House of Prayer, Cranberry. More info: www.ErieRCD.org/chastity.htm. Nova, a marriage preparation retreat for those who are free to remarry in the Catholic Church, will be held March 2 from 8:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. Mark the Evangelist Church, 695 Smithson Ave., Erie. Info and registration: Family Life Office at 814-824-1261 or at familylife@ErieRCD.org. An annual beer and wine tasting event to benefit Shenango Valley’s Prince of Peace Center and the Ursuline Sister’s AIDS program will be held March 23 from 6 to 9 p.m. More info: www.princeofpeacecenter.org.
Mercyhurst University Athletics will celebrate the 2019 National Girls & Women in Sports Day Feb. 9 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Erie university’s athletic and ice centers. Girls K-8 are invited to participate. Reservations are not required, but would be appreciated by going to http://bit.ly/MUgwsd2019.
Mercyhurst University’s 28th Oscar Romero Award will be presented March 21 to Carl Malischke of Milwaukee, Wis. The event, which is free and open to the public, will be held in the university’s Mercy Heritage Room at 7 p.m. For more information, contact Dr. Rob von Thaden at rvonthaden@ mercyhurst.edu.
Beloved Nights for married and engaged couples of all ages will be held in four locations in the diocese Feb. 10 from 4 to 7 p.m. Free baby-sitting is offered, with a complimentary dinner for children. For more details, go to www.ErieRCD.org/chastity/beloved.html.
Plan now for the annual Club CC Night for Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Erie May 11 from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. at the Bayfront Convention Center in Erie.
St. Mark Seminary Auxiliary will meet Feb. 12 and March 12, both evenings at 7 p.m., at St. Mark Catholic Center, 429 E. Grandview Blvd., Erie. There will be Mass, followed by the meeting and fellowship. Also, save the date for the St. Mark Seminary Auxiliary Card Party April 11. All fathers (or male role models) and their sons, ages 11 to 13, are welcome to attend the diocesan Father-Son Program Feb. 16 from 9 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. at Our Lady of the Lake Parish social hall, 128 Sunset Drive, Edinboro. Info and registration: www.ErieRCD.org/chastity.htm. Register by phone by calling Kate at 814-824-1259. Prince of Peace Center in Farrell will host its annual bowl-a-thon fundraiser Feb. 24 at noon at Thornton Hall Bowling Center in Sharon. Info and forms: www.princeofpeacecenter.org. Erie’s Best Coffee event to benefit St. Martin Center, Erie, will be held Feb. 24 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Bayfront Convention Center, 1 Sassafras Pier, Erie. Tickets are $10 in advance; $15 at the door. Tickets available at www. stmartincenter.org. Transitions, a peer ministry for those grieving the loss of one’s marriage because of death, divorce or separation, will be offered Feb. 24 and March 31 from 2 to 4 p.m. at St. Mark Catholic Center, 429 E. Grandview Blvd., Erie. More info: www.ErieRCD.org/familylifeoffice/transitions.html or call 814-824-1265.
Important dates MARCH 2 – 2232 Men’s Conference, Our Lady of Peace Church, 2401 W. 38th St., Erie. Info and registration: www.2332men.com MARCH 6 — Ash Wednesday MARCH 8-14 — National Catholic Sisters Week March 10 — Rite of Election begins at 3 p.m. at both St. Peter Cathedral, Erie, and at St. Francis Parish, Clearfield. Reception follows. March 22-23 — 24 Hours for the Lord, St. Peter Cathedral, Erie. Includes Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, reconciliation after 5:15 p.m. Mass on March 22, and ending with Benediction March 23 at 3:30 p.m. March 30 – 1:38 Women’s Conference, Our Lady of Peace Church, 2401 W. 38th St., Erie. Info and registration: www.138women.com/
In Memoriam Please keep the following sister and deacons who recently died in your prayers: Sister Bernardine Pais, SSJ, 101, Dec. 10, 2018 Deacon Terry M. Schmader, 79, Grand Junction, Colo., Dec. 6, 2018 Deacon Robert L. Walker, 74, Erie, Jan. 16, 2019
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get hOOked! -----> all SaintS
11264 Route 97 N, Waterford MARCH 8, 15, 22, 29 / APRIL 5, 12 4:30-7:00 pm BAKed OR FRIed FISH Adult: $9, Child under 12: $4, Toddlers: Free. Includes sides, drink and homemade dessert. *Take-outs available More info: (814) 796-3023
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4376 W. Lake Road, Erie MARCH 15, 22, 29 / APRIL 5, 12, 19 5:00-7:00 pm BAKed OR FRIed COd Adult: $12 (without fish: $8), Child under 12: $5. More info: (814) 838-8808
bleSSed Sacrament
Parish Cafeteria --- 1626 W. 26th St., Erie MARCH 8, 22 / APRIL 5; 4:30-7:00 pm BAKed scroD or cheese raVioli Adult: $9, Child under 12: $5 MAC ANd CHeeSe Adult: $5, Child: $3 Includes green beans, coleslaw, roll and butter, sherbet and beverage. Fish dinners also include French fries or mac and cheese. Plus, BAKe SALe! *Take-outs available. More info: (814) 454-0171
hOly crOSS
Reilly Center --- 7100 W. Ridge Road, Fairview MARCH 8, 15, 22, 29 / APRIL 5, 12 4:30-7:00 pm FISH, SHRIMP OR COMBO Adult: $10, Child: $5 FISH SANdWICH $8; MAC ANd CHeeSe $5 All dinners include sides, drink and dessert. *Take-outs available More info: (814) 474-2605
immaculate heart Of mary
Gallagher Hall --- 100 Penn Ave., Mercer MARCH 8, 15, 22, 29 / APRIL 5, 12, 19 5:00 -7:00 pm FRIed FISH Adult: $10, Child 12 and under: $5, 3 and under: Free. Includes sides, drink and cake. *Take-outs available. More info: (724) 662-2999
Our lady Of mOunt carmel
Scheffner Hall ---1553 E. Grandview Blvd., Erie MARCH 15, 29 / APRIL 12, 26; 4:00 -7:00 pm FRIed FISH ANd/OR CHeeSe PIeROGI Adult: $10, Child: $5. Includes sides and ice cream. *Take-outs available: 50 cents more. More info: (814) 825-7313
dOn’t See yOur ------> pariSh Or SchOOl liSted?
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2019 lenten dinner S
Our lady Of the lake
St. luke
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St. michael
SocIal Hall ---128 Sunset Drive, Edinboro MARCH 8, 15, 22, 29 / APRIL 5, 12 5:00 -7:00 pm KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS FISH FRY Adult: $10, Child: $5. Includes sides, drink and dessert. *Tickets and take-outs at the door. More info: (814) 734-3113 Social Hall --- 3415 Wallace St., Erie MARCH 8, 22 / APRIL 5; 4:30-7:00 pm BAKed COd, POTATO OR CHeeSe PIeROGI OR COMBO Adult: $10, Child 6-12: $5, Under 6: Free. *Take-outs available. More info: (814) 825-8140
St. anthOny
Church Hall --- Sherman Ave., Sharon MARCH 8, 15, 22, 29 / APRIL 5, 12, 19 4:00-7:00 pm FRIed OR BAKed FISH OR PALACINKAS Includes sides and cookie.*Take-outs available. More info: (724) 342-7391
St. anthOny
St. Paul Center --- Sponsored by St. Anthony Knights of Columbus Route 6 (Saybrook), Sheffield MARCH 8, 15, 22, 29 / APRIL 5, 12 5:00-7:00 pm HAddOCK Adult: $9 (includes sides, drink and homemade dessert) plus 50/50! More info: (814) 968-5915
St. brigid
Social Hall --- 383 Arch St., Meadville MARCH 8, 15, 22, 29 / APRIL 5, 12 4:30- 6:30 pm BAKed OR FRIed ICeLANdIC HAddOCK, MAC ANd CHeeSe OR GRILLed CHeeSe Adult: $9, Child 5-12: $4.50, 4 and under: Free Includes scalloped potatoes, green beans, coleslaw/applesauce, bread and beverage. ICe CReAM BAR with toppings: $1.00 *Take-outs available Visit www.StBrigidChurch.org to view a map. More info: (814) 336-4459
St. JOSeph
17724 Bennetts Valley Highway, Force 12-6:30 pm Ash Wednesday and every Friday during Lent (Good Friday 2-6:30 pm) BAKed OR FRIed HAddOCK Adult: $12, Child 10 and under: $6 FANTAIL SHRIMP Adult: $13, Child 10 and under: $7. Includes soup, sides, drink and dessert. *Take-outs available (no soup or drinks). We deliver in Bennetts Valley! More info: (814) 787-4151, ext. 6
Faith magazine | February 2019 | www.faitherie.com
School Cafeteria --- 421 E. 38th St., Erie Knights of Columbus Council #11229 MARCH 8, 15, 22, 29; 5:00-7:00 pm ICeLANdIC COd, PIeROGI, SHRIMP, MAC ANd CHeeSe OR CAPTAIN’S PLATTeR Includes French fries and green beans. *Take-outs available More info: (814) 825-6920 Knights of Columbus Hall --- 170 Clarksville St., Greenville MARCH 8, 15, 22, 29 / APRIL 5, 12, 19 4- 7:00 pm BAKed OR FRIed FISH Adult: $10, Child 12 and under: $7 eXTRA ITeMS $3/plate. Includes sides, drink and dessert. *Take-outs available. More info: (724) 588-9911
St. Severin
Social Hall --- 6786 Kylertown-Drifting Highway, Drifting (Exit 133 on I-80, 5 miles north on Route 53) MARCH 8, 15, 22, 29 / APRIL 5, 12 4:00-6:30 pm BAKed OR FRIed FISH Includes sides, drink and dessert. *Take-outs available. More info: (814) 345-6665
St. StaniSlauS
516 E. 12th St., Erie MARCH 8, 22 / APRIL 5; 4-7:00 pm FISH ANd PIeROGI Adult: $10, Child 6-12: $5, 5 and under: Free. *Take-out dinner: $10.25 More info: (814) 452-6606
St. tereSa
Parish Center --- 9 Third Ave., Union City MARCH 8, 15, 22, 29 / APRIL 5, 12 4:30-7:00 pm BAKed OR FRIed HAddOCK Adult: $10, Child: $5. Includes a side: French fries, baked potato or mac and cheese. Plus, homemade coleslaw, applesauce and homemade dessert.*Take-outs available: (814) 438-2783, More info: (814) 438-2000
venangO cathOlic high SchOOl
1505 W. First St., Oil City MARCH 8, 15, 22, 29 / APRIL 5, 12, 19 5-7:00 pm all-you-can-eat fish fry Adult: $10.50, Senior: $10, Child under 12: $8, Under 5: $4. Includes sides, drink and dessert. PIZZA $3/slice. *Take-outs available. More info: (814) 676-9429
Top
C a t h o l i c ne w s i t e m s f ro m a ro und t he wor ld
The explosive Pennsylvania grand jury report that accused 301 priests of sexually abusing at least 1,000 minors was named the No. 1 religion story of 2018 by members of the Religion News Association in its annual “Top 10 Religion Stories and Newsmaker of the Year” poll.
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Australian Cardinal George Pell, 77, has been found guilty on five charges related to serious sexual misconduct involving two boys at St. Patrick's Cathedral in Melbourne in the 1990s. He is expected to appeal the conviction after his sentencing in February. He also faces a second trial on separate charges in March. CNS
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U.S. bishops have expressed unanimous support for the advancement of the cause for sainthood for Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman, FSPA. A Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration, she was one of the most influential advocates for evangelization and inclusion of African Americans in the U.S. Catholic Church.
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Subcommittee on the church in Latin America awarded more than $3.2 million in funding for 173 grants to support the pastoral work of the church in Latin America and the Caribbean, and nearly $800,000 toward seven grants for recovery and reconstruction projects in areas devastated by earthquakes in Haiti and Mexico and Hurricanes Matthew, Maria and Irma.
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Pope Francis will visit the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Feb. 3-5, and Bulgaria and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia May 5-7. He will be the first pope to visit the Arabian Peninsula and the Republic of Macedonia. In the UAE, he will meet with the international Muslim Council of Elders, participate in an interreligious meeting and celebrate Mass for the local Catholic population. The motto for the Bulgaria trip is Pacem In Terris (Peace on Earth), the title of a 1963 encyclical by St. John XXIII. CNS
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A 2018 St. Mary’s Press study on young adults leaving the Catholic Church found people stopped identifying as Catholics at a median age of 13. Titled “Going, Going, Gone: the Dynamics of Catholic Disaffiliation,” the report presented an in-depth look at men and women who left Catholicism. An estimated one-third left over church teaching, most often that of samesex marriage and homosexuality.
Bangladeshi Cardinal Patrick D’Rozario has been appointed the papal envoy to the special celebration of the World Day of the Sick in Kolkata, India, on Feb. 11. The tradition of the World Day of the Sick was instituted by St. John Paul II, who designated the celebration to the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes.
CNS
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European Catholic bishops have expressed support for the “United Nations Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration.” The compact is the first international effort outlining best practices for managing migration. The document lists 23 goals and aims for better coordination among countries, presents migration in a positive light, and proposes to improve the rights of migrants and the duties of host countries while combating illegal migration.
Nineteen religious men and women martyred in 1996 during the Algerian civil war were beatified recently. Seven of the men were the subject of the movie “Of Gods and Men,” which won the grand prize at the Cannes Film Festival in 2010.
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The pro-life group Right to Life Michigan has praised the state’s passage of a bill that would continue to prohibit doctors from prescribing abortion-inducing drugs through a teleconference call, permanently extending a ban on so-called “webcam abortions” that first took effect in 2012. 31
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