Christmas Traditions 2017

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ChristmasTraditions

Wishing you a blessed Christmas and a New Year of Peace and Happiness

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Christmas Traditions 2017

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4 | Special memories

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A reader remembers Santa’s Secret Shop at Kaufmann’s.

6 | True meaning Nativity displays have a lesson to teach all of humanity.

8 | Grouchy grandpa Christmas Eve brings promise of renewal to a disgruntled relative.

11 | ¡Feliz Navidad!

A Crafton school’s unique holiday program.

12 | Words to live by Notable quotes from some notable folks about Christmas.

15 | Going for the heart Local author’s books reach her readers’ hearts.

16 | Keeping focused pg pg

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“Keeping Christ in Christmas” should be everyone’s goal.

18 | Festival of Lights One of North Hills’ favorite celebrations is set for Dec. 1.

23 | Mourning doves An author writes about leaving Nevada for Pittsburgh and finding familiar friends.

On the cover...

The Infant’s dream “Behold this Infant’s dream, that all human beings become brothers, because they all have one God and Lord, who is the Father of all, the Father who shows compassion to all and who watches over all!”

2012 Christmas Homily of the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Fouad Twal Cover photo of the Pittsburgh Creché by Susan Lea Premozic.

Cover design by E. Denise Shean.

Christmas Traditions 2017

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Catholic MAGAZINE 111 Blvd. of the Allies • Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15222-1613 1-800-392-4670 www.pittsburghcatholic.org

Vol. 9, No. 5 Publisher | Bishop David A. Zubik General Manager | Ann Rodgers Editor | William Cone Operations Manager | Carmella Weismantle Christmas Traditions Magazine Project Editor Phil Taylor Associate Editors Phil Taylor (Special Projects) Matthew Peaslee (News) Staff Writer | John W. Franko Graphic Designers E. Denise Shean | Rita Cappella Advertising Director Carmella Weismantle Account Executives Michael A. Check | Paul Crowe Michael Wire Circulation Mgr./Parish News Coord.

Peggy Zezza Administrative Assistant | Karen Hanlin

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Office Assistant | Jean DeCarlo

Advertising: ads@pittsburghcatholic.org Editorial: editor@pittsburghcatholic.org Website: www.pittsburghcatholic.org Pittsburgh Catholic Christmas Traditions Magazine is a complimentary publication available at all 188 Catholic parishes in the Diocese of Pittsburgh from the Pittsburgh Catholic Publishing Associates, Inc. Paid first-class delivered subscriptions are available.

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Acceptance of an advertisement in the Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine, while based on an assumption of integrity on the part of the advertiser, does not imply endorsement by the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh.

Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine 3

Christmas gift from son was one to remember

By DOLLY SUVAK Long before the Friday after Thanksgiving was deemed “Black Friday,” it was always the day for our annual trek to visit Santa.

We would have Santa photos taken and our children would shop in Santa’s Secret Shop.

We dressed the boys in their treasured Christmas sweaters and headed to Downtown Pittsburgh to Kaufmann’s Vendome Shop on the 11th floor.

The line into the North Pole Santa house was long and windy, but the ornate merrygo-round and happy elves occupied the children’s attention until it was their turn to sit on his knee, whisper in his ear and smile for the camera. We all enjoyed the holiday wonderland and it really readied our mood for the Christmas season.

Next, the boys, clutching their Christmas savings and list, entered Santa’s Secret Shop. The door couldn’t have been more than four feet high — to keep the grownups out! Oh, the hour of decision was upon them.

When my son exited he was so excited to give me my special gift. I reminded him we had another month before the holiday, but he was coaxing me to open my gift. “Mummy, it is the best gift ever. It is perfect for you. You are really going to love it. Please, open it now.”

I resisted temptation and instructed him to hide it when we got home.

Finally, we viewed the mechanical windows. Each of us noticed something different, and the “oohs” and “aahs” were plentiful.

At least four times a day for the next month, Ronnie asked me to open my present. I must admit I was intrigued.

What could $2 buy that was such a great present? Finally, we were back from “Happy Birthday Jesus Mass” and we could exchange one gift before bedtime.

“Let me go first, Mummy. I want you to have your gift,” he said. As I opened the box, my jaw dropped as I pulled out a plastic miniature football.

“Isn’t it the best? I knew you would just love it! It’s just perfect, isn’t it, Mummy?

“Yes, yes,” I stammered. “How did you know?”

“Because now you can play with me all the time,” said Ronnie.

Suvak is a retired educator and member of Word of God Parish in Swissvale.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF SENATOR JOHN HEINZ HISTORY CENTER

Some of the former Kaufmann’s Christmas window displays.

A ‘Very Merry Pittsburgh’ at Senator John Heinz History Center For more than 130 years, families made the trip to Downtown Pittsburgh to celebrate the annual Christmas tradition of visiting Kaufmann’s (and later, Macy’s) department store. Along with checking gifts off their holiday shopping lists, they came to marvel at the breathtaking lights and decorations, magical window displays, and of course, to pay a special visit to Santa Claus.

Beginning in November, relive those cherished memories at the History Center as part of “A Very Merry Pittsburgh,” a new holly jolly exhibition featuring original artifacts from Kaufmann’s/Macy’s, Christmas decorations, historic toys spanning the 1940s to the 2000s, and much more.

No trip to Santaland is complete without a visit from old St. Nick, so each day through Christmas Eve from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., take photos with Santa Claus in an exact replica of his

original chair from Kaufmann’s.

The 3,000-square-foot exhibit will showcase dozens of nostalgic artifacts recalling Pittsburgh’s Christmas past.

The “A Very Merry Pittsburgh” exhibit is on display through Jan. 15.

Christmas Traditions 2017

Give the gift of hope to a child with special needs The School at McGuire Memorial is a recognized leader in child-centered special education services for students from age 3 through 21 with autism, intellectual disabilities, and/or multiple disabilities.

We offer limited class size, knowledgeable and well-trained staff, individually tailored services/support, comprehensive curriculum, and a nurturing environment.

In addition, we offer customized programs to meet your child’s needs.

The School at McGuire Memorial is a Pennsylvania Approved Private School (APS) and can be a cost-effective answer for school districts and parents of students with complex support needs.

To learn more about the School, contact Kim Lieb, Director, at 724-891-7222 or by email at k.lieb@mcguirememorial.org.

2121 Mercer Road ďƒľ New Brighton, PA 15066 Located in Beaver County, The School at McGuire Memorial is easily accessible to students from Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Lawrence, and Mercer counties.

mcguirememorial.org

Christmas Traditions 2017

Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine 5

Nativity display celebrates real meaning of Christmas

By SISTER JOANNE GARDENER Certainly you can see them! And do you hear them? Can you sense that frosty spirit in the air? In many stores the presence of decorations for Christmas is not recent. Now the promise of the yuletide carols being sung by all those choirs is yet another indication of the coming of Christmas.

Some would say that the true meaning of Christmas is the caring and sharing that is generated by that spirit of good will to all.

So the shopping for gifts, the decorating of trees and windows and doors and houses, and attending yet another office Christmas party would definitely put each and all into the Christmas spirit. However, we need to look more deeply as to how we can keep the real meaning of Christmas.

Born in a stable, a barn some would say. No one had a place for this man and his very pregnant wife to stay the night.

Nonetheless, she delivered her child in that place.

They were visited first by those on the lowest strata on the social ladder.

Shepherds were rather like lepers in those days in that place. A baby who cries in hunger and in the cold. A mother who gives of herself to nourish her child. A father who protects the two of them as best he can.

A scene that shouts of incarnation — of Emmanuel — of a God who is with us out of an eternal love. With us in the most human of ways.

For love ... born in a stable. For love … the simplicity, the poverty, the littleness, and the meekness. For love … these are the hallmarks of the true meaning of Christmas. Christ born for us out of God’s unconditional love.

The trees, lights, candles, candy canes, presents, wreaths, stockings; these are possibly ways to enter into the celebration.

But it is the crib, the straw, the baby lying in that manger, the mother and the father in adoration of this child, the shepherds and their sheep, the donkey that bore them on the journey, the angels who sang out their message for those who could

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A Nativity display at the Sisters of the Humility of Mary at Villa Maria Community Center in Lawrence County.

hear it for what it was — these tell us the real meaning of that first Christmas and of this coming celebration of Christmas.

Every culture throughout the world has created Nativity scenes to highlight the Christmas story. We see the love of

the artist in each depiction in the use of various natural materials by skilled artisans. What family doesn’t have its own traditional nativity scene to place on the mantle or under the tree or in some prominent location?

Young visitors enjoy the Nativity displays.

The Sisters of the Humility of Mary at Villa Maria Community Center in Lawrence County invite everyone to their 2017 Nativity Display on Sunday, Dec. 3, and again on Sunday, Dec. 10, from noon until 5 p.m.

Hundreds of nativities will be displayed in the conference center where almost everyone finds their own personal favorite.

In addition roast beef dinners will be available both Sundays from noon until 4 p.m. in Magnificat Dining Room under the Magnificat Chapel. See website for more details: https://www.humilityofmary.org/ Musicians and local choirs will provide entertainment in the center lobby and in Magnificat Chapel on both days.

There is no charge to view the display and parking is free.

Christmas Traditions 2017

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Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine 7

Christmas season brings renewal to reluctant grandpa

By ARLENE GUALTIERI It was Christmas Eve day, and all preparations were completed in the house. After Christmas dinner and opening of gifts, everyone planned to attend Midnight Mass — all but Grandpa.

He had lost his wife of 45 years, our Grandma, in the spring of that year and staying up late was not possible for him.

He had stopped attending Mass since her death, so it was a gentle cajoling on my part for him to agree to join me for the Christmas Eve Mass. He was less inclined to socialize these days, and sitting in his favorite chair all evening was the norm.

I decided to make sure Grandpa went to Mass, but it would be the earliest one at 4 p.m., known as the children’s Mass.

He would then be able to enjoy dinner and the evenings’ festivities with the family.

In the past few months Gramps had become more grumpy than usual.

His complaints were more frequent regarding newspaper delivery, his favorite TV program not being renewed, the neighbor’s dogs barking too loud, and the price of gasoline too high. In addition, the temperatures were too hot or too cold, and his arthritis was acting up. With the cold weather approaching he declared he would hibernate for three months.

I arranged to pick him up at 3:30 p.m. giving us plenty of time to get a seat in church. When I knocked on his door he was ready to go — unfortunately with all new complaints. His sweater had lost a button, it was too cold outside, he had to wear galoshes, his coat was too heavy and he couldn’t find his scarf.

I located his gloves and scarf in back of the closet, helped him put on his boots, found a different sweater, and we were on our way, finding one of the last parking spaces and just making it in time for the start of Mass.

We squeezed into a back pew with a

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family of five children. The choir sang and filled the church with music, along with babies crying and small, restless children talking and eating Cheerios. The little girl next to Grampa offered him a sticky candy, but he gave her a smile and shook his head.

Mass was eventually over and the great crowd of families exited the church. The cold night air made us take deep breaths as we walked in the new falling snow, showering us with crystal flakes.

Next to the church was the traditional manager scene, Mary, Joseph, three Wise Men and shepherds, lambs and oxen, all looking at a baby born symbolically over 2,000 years ago. Grandpa stopped and slowly walked to the manager, bowed his head and said a quiet prayer, a prayer he and Grandma said every night before retiring.

I stood and thought of all that had transpired with this life of a new born babe, documented in books and bibles, litanies and gospels. Grandpa made the sign of the cross and blew a kiss to the silent figures. I took his hand and we

made our way through the crowd, wishing Merry Christmas to a few neighbors as we reached the car to head home.

Driving along the quiet streets we saw Christmas lights glow on trees, roofs and outdoor displays, throwing a brightness over the porches and lawns. Grandpa started to hum “The First Noel,” and I joined in. In our tuned-off chorus we finished the song, then laughing as we loudly added “Jingle Bells” together.

As we reached home Grandpa quietly said he had enjoyed himself. I thought of the choir, the incense, the rituals of the Mass and even the crying children, as they are all a part of what Christmas should be, bringing families together to celebrate in a holy and spiritual way.

“I’ll see you next week for the 4 o’clock Mass,” he said. I happily agreed, knowing that the grumpy Grandpa of six months past was fading and his new attitude would cause a renewal of life ahead for him.

Gualtieri is a member of St. Margaret of Scotland Parish in Green Tree.

Christmas Traditions 2017

Christmas Traditions 2017

Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine 9

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Christmas Traditions 2017

¡Feliz Navidad!

A Christmas tradition at St. Philip School Over the past seven years, a special Christmas tradition has evolved at St. Philip School in Crafton.

Inspired by their yearly attendance at the Our Lady of Guadalupe celebration at St. Paul Cathedral in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood, the St. Philip Middle School, under the direction of Spanish teacher Nancee Marshall, produces a Christmas pageant that celebrates Spanish culture.

St. Philip students in grades K-8 both enjoy and perform in the unique Christmas program based on Spanish Christmas customs, songs and traditions including many familiar carols sung in Spanish, traditional Spanish verses and dance.

The highlight of the performance is the re-enactment of “Las Posadas,” a Christmas festival originating in Latin America that dramatizes the search of Joseph and Mary for lodging. The story includes Mary and Joseph, inn keepers, stable animals and the Three Wise Men. St. Philip School truly wishes all of the families who attend the performance each year ¡Feliz Navidad!

Christmas Traditions 2017

Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine 11

Notable quotes on the meaning of Christmas W hat is Christmas? It is tenderness for the past, courage for the present, hope for the future. It is a fervent wish that every cup may overflow with blessings rich and eternal, and that every path may lead to peace.

My idea of Christmas, whether old-fashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others.

Come to think of it, why do we have to wait for Christmas to do that?

— Bob Hope

— Agnes M. Pharo

For centuries men have kept an appointment with Christmas. Christmas means fellowship, feasting, giving and receiving, a time of good cheer, home.

— W. J. Tucker

Christmas, my child, is love in action. ... Every time we love, every time we give, it’s Christmas.

— Dale Evans Rogers

Christmas is not just a time for festivity and merry making.

It is more than that. It is a time for the contemplation of eternal things. The Christmas spirit is a spirit of giving and forgiving.

— J. C. Penney (“Christmas Thoughts”)

Christmas is sights, especially the sights of Christmas reflected in the eyes of a child.

— William Saroyan

The message of Christmas is that the visible material world is bound to the invisible spiritual world.

— Author Unknown

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Mankind is a great, an immense family. This is proved by what we feel in our hearts at Christmas.

— St. Pope John XXIII

I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.

— Charles Dickens

Christmas Traditions 2017

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Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine 13

Plenty of reasons to celebrate the season

By ANN L. WALKER One of my first memories of Christmas was when my brothers and sisters were waiting on the steps in anticipation of mom and dad waking up so we could open up the presents that were waiting for us underneath the Christmas tree.

What is it about Christmas that is so magical? The anticipation sometimes can’t be described. Through the lens of a child — most times — everything is rather magical.

For adults sharing Christmas with young ones, it can be just as magical.

Christmas is about more than gifts, and there are many ways to enjoy the spirit of the season and make new traditions.

Pittsburgh has much to offer the Catholic family. The Pittsburgh Crèche at the US Steel Plaza is a life-sized nativity scene modeled after a Vatican display in St. Peter’s Square in Rome.

The PPG Place Wintergarden offers the “Spirits of Giving From Around the World” exhibit which depicts holiday celebrations around the world. This may inspire research of holiday traditions relative to a family’s heritage. The Benedum offers “The Nutcracker” ballet, and “A Christmas Carol” is performed at the Byham Theater.

The University of Pittsburgh’s Nationality Rooms celebrate Christmas around the world. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens showcase holiday poinsettias and evergreen trees. The Miniature Railroad and Village at the Carnegie Science

14 Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine

Center provides a fun look at Pittsburgh communities at Christmas-time.

If one looks hard enough, Christian messages can be found by watching Christmas television specials. In “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” Rudolph stood strong in his own dignity which resulted in the sharing of his wonderful gift (his red nose). Frosty the Snowman benefited from caring children who looked after him.

In “The Year Without a Santa Claus,” Misters Heat and Snow Miser realized that they needed to get along and give up some things in order to gain other things. When Kris Kringle brought toys to town, even Mr. Burgermeister Meisterburger finally realized that something as simple as a yoyo could bring a smile when most needed in “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town.” And even The Grinch learns how to turn around his evil ways in “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.”

In Charlie Brown’s Christmas, Linus explained the true meaning of Christmas.

Christian stories like the “Little Drummer Boy” inspire us to “play our best” for Jesus. Even animals get into the spirit as shown in “Nestor, the Long-Eared Christmas Donkey.” Nestor was happy to carry Mary as they traveled to where she would give birth to Jesus. How lucky Christians are to have such examples of strength and caring.

Variety shows like “The Best of Andy Williams’ Christmas” and family shows like “The Waltons’ The Homecoming: A

Christmas Story,” or the “Little House on the Prarie” Christmas specials had families gathering together to enjoy enlightening messages. Younger readers can “Google” the DVDs and become introduced to a whole new family tradition.

Music provides a great way to celebrate Christmas. Another memory I have was when I was one of the angels in a Christmas concert when I sang, “Away in a Manger.” I wonder how the world could change if everyone realized that preparing for Jesus in our hearts can go a long way towards striving for world peace. It’s a lofty goal of course, but it needs to start somewhere.

The “Silent Night” might be necessary for people to truly “hear” (“Do You Hear What I Hear”) what needs to be done to make this world a better place. “Oh Holy Night” had stars brightly shining to light the way for our dear Savior’s birth. One spark of light can provide the impetus to keep going when things can seem bleak. The promise of heaven is something that should and can light the darkest paths. It is wonderful that we can relive the “Joy to the World” when we realize how happy we are that God is with us.

As the Christmas season unfolds, hopefully we can reflect upon and recapture some happy moments from the past while creating some new traditions in welcoming God and sharing his love.

Walker is a member of St. Teresa of Avila Parish in Perrysville.

Christmas Traditions 2017

Author has found way to touch readers’ hearts in her books

By PAULA A. SMITH Correspondent Christine Pisera Naman is a succesful author and member of North American Martyrs Parish in Monroeville who writes from the heart. So, when her late father, Frank Pisera, suggested she “write something Christmas,” she wrote a heartfelt story of seven women whose lives illuminate the spirit and splendor of the season in “Christmas Lights.”

Naman, 53, a former kindergarten teacher, wife and mother of three, considers “Christmas Lights” (2007), recently reprinted in paperback, her most religious novel.

“It’s the perfect little book to sit down with Christmas cookies, a warm tea and a blanket,” she said. “It has a hopeful Christmas message and is what the season is all about.”

“She’s a thoughtful writer and she touches heartstrings,” said Gary Jansen, editor at Penguin Random House. He has known Naman for five years. The editor said she plays with memory in a great way by drawing from her own memories to create characters. “Christmas Lights is a very sweet story about the holidays that really resonated with me.”

Naman admits you won’t catch her writing anything without hope or without a happy ending. For her, its just seeing God’s grace in the little things — every day happenings, conversations and blessings. Her characters may have their struggles, but in the end things work out.

It’s not like rain hasn’t fallen in her own life.

“I’ve had ups and downs, joys and heartaches,” she reflects. “And many of them have been very real. And because I’ve had my share of both, I think I am more grateful for the blessings than I would have been had I not shed my share of tears.”

Her mother, Angeline Pisera, is one of the biggest fans of her stories.

When her third child, Trevor, was born at 2:07 p.m. on Sept. 11, 2001 — the same day that three attacks by terrorists killed nearly 3,000 people across the U.S., she felt fear contrasted with joy at his birth.

“It was a hard day to be happy,” she

Christmas Traditions 2017

PHOTO BY CHUCK AUSTIN

Local author Christine Naman.

“We can’t always make things better, but we can always find the hope that makes things better. Truly, God’s grace is always there — just look.”

— Christine Pisera Naman recalled. “I felt a lot of fear. We all felt vulnerable. When you bring a baby into this world you want to feel they are in a nice, safe place.”

Within six months, Naman wrote her first book, “Faces of Hope: Babies Born on 9/11.” The book contains 50 candid black and white photographs of a baby from each state, including two sets of twins, all born on Sept. 11, 2001, along with a personalized page of hopeful wishes from the author.

In the introduction she wrote: “A baby does not have to be yours for you to be able to see the promise of the future in its face.

Anyone can see it. I hope whoever you are, however, Sept. 11, 2001, touched you, that you will be able to see the hope in the faces of these babies. I hope it will remind you that everything will be okay.” A portion of the proceeds from the book were donated to the Twin Towers Orphan Fund.

Ten years after that tragic day, she wrote a sequel, “Faces of Hope 10 Years Later: Babies Born on 9/11” with color photographs of the same children featured in her first book with their personal quotes and artwork.

The book is dedicated to the memory of Christina-Taylor Green, one of the original 50 babies in her first book. Green was the nine-year-old girl who was shot and killed during a shooting spree at an outdoor political event with U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords on Jan. 8, 2011, in Tucson, Arizona. The photograph in the book of Christina-Taylor was taken on her first holy Communion day.

On Jan. 12, 2011, President Barack Obama delivered a speech at the Tucson memorial at the University of Arizona to honor victims of the shooting. He mentioned Christina-Taylor and quoted Naman’s wishes listed across from her photograph, “I hope you jump in rain puddles.”

The former president stated, “If there are rain puddles in heaven, Christina is jumping in them today. And here on Earth, we place our hands over our hearts, and commit ourselves as Americans to forging a country that is forever worthy of her gentle, happy spirit.”

St. Joseph Sister Carol Arch, principal of St. Bernadette School in Monroeville, calls “Faces of Hope” amazing.

“The book is a tribute to who Christine is as a person,” said Sister Carol. “She has a lot of faith and because of her faith she was able to turn a horrible day into a beautiful day for the children born on that day and all of us.”

Turning moments into memories is something Naman did as a kindergarten teacher. “I just found so much inspiration from my five-year-olds,” she said.

Her second book, “Caterpillar Kisses:

See Naman, Page 21

Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine 15

Prayers to keep Christmas in proper perspective

By GARY SMITH While reflecting on how I spent Christmas during my childhood years in the 1950s and ‘60s, I remember we really didn’t have a lot.

I remember the nuns at All Saints Church passing out “Keep Christ in Christmas” posters for us to color during class art period. They would select the best ones to be placed in the storefront windows of businesses in Etna.

Times sure were different back then.

Singing in the choir at both the midnight and 9 a.m. Masses, dressed in our red cassocks and white surplices, that was special. It helped to keep us focused on what the season was truly all about.

We didn’t have a lot to open under the tree, usually just one main $20-25 gift. We could pretty much guess what it was because mom had asked us in advance what we wanted. We would also receive some smaller, needed, practical gifts like socks, gloves, etc. If we seemed disappointed that we didn’t get something special we had requested our dad would remind us that, “It’s his birthday – not yours!”

While our gifts were opened up hastily, there was a family of 11 that lived across the street that had a much better way of making Christmas special.

I always felt blessed sitting beside my friend in his family’s living room. He had eight siblings. One by one, starting with the youngest, they would slowly open their present, saving the wrapping paper and bow for the following year.

Then, with “oohs” and ahhs,” they would each express their gratitude for whatever their single special present was.

(They each received only one present, and that was given by the person who drew their name out of a can several weeks earlier.)

Almost all of the gifts were practical gifts of need, rather than want. All of the children participated, even the youngest, by having saved their money from

16 Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine

A winning first-place poster drawn by Sophia Ramos in the national Knights of Columbus Keep Christ in Christmas poster contest (2015-16) in the 11-14-year-old category.

I sometimes wish I could return to those times, when things were simple and you could see “Keep Christ in Christmas” posters colored by children from Catholic schools in business storefront windows. Some of us would be blessed by attending two Masses on Christmas. My father had it right – “It’s his birthday, not mine.”

— Gary Smith collecting pop bottles, cutting lawns, etc.

Their one small gift was usually smaller or less expensive than any of the smaller gifts I received that day, but there were always comments made by the others in

the room as to how nice and thoughtful each gift was.

Their mom and dad opened their gifts last, and they were the only ones who got a present from the “group.” And even though their gift was a modest one, it was accepted with love and appreciation.

I sometimes wish I could return to those times, when things were simple and you could see “Keep Christ in Christmas” posters colored by children from Catholic schools in business storefront windows.

Some of us would be blessed by attending two Masses on Christmas. My father had it right – “It’s his birthday, not mine.”

I pray that we all keep Christmas in proper perspective and we remember the great gift that was given to us by our Heavenly Father over 2,000 years ago.

That we keep our focus on the prize, that we “keep it simple,” because it IS all about him – It’s his birthday.

Smith is a member of St. Teresa of Avila Parish in Perrysville and also attends All Saints Church in Etna.

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Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine 17

Annual Festival of Lights on Dec. 1 La Roche College, the Sisters of Divine Providence and Providence Heights Alpha School will host their annual Festival of Lights holiday event on Friday, Dec. 1.

Sponsored by McCandless Crossing, Festival of Lights will run from 3-9 p.m. at La Roche and the neighboring Sisters of Divine Providence campus, including Providence Heights Alpha School.

Admission is free, and the event is open to the public.

“Festival of Lights has become one of the most popular and anticipated events of the year for the North Hills community.

It’s a family-friendly atmosphere and a celebration of the holiday season,” said Colleen Ruefle, La Roche’s vice president for student life and dean of students. “We are fortunate to have such a great neighbor, McCandless Crossing, to sponsor the festivities for the second year in a row.”

Festival of Lights will begin with a craft show and conclude with a fireworks display over the La Roche campus. The evening will feature a live nativity and ice sculpting, food trucks, carriage rides, and activities for children including storytelling, cookie decorating, a bounce house and a visit from Santa Claus. The La Roche Dance Team will perform, and there will be a holiday

18 Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine

musical presentation in the Mother of Divine Providence Chapel.

From 5-8 p.m. at the entrance of the Kerr Fitness & Sports Center, the La Roche Student Government Association will accept donations for the Cans for Cocoa food drive.

Guests may donate canned goods or other nonperishable food items and receive a cup of cocoa for their generosity.

For a complete schedule of events, please visit laroche.edu/lights.

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Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine 19

A Christmas meditation

By KAREN FLYNN

A

star in the east appeared brightly shining Beaconing those discerning its meaning Across the distance.

The shepherds watched in wonder As an angel of the Lord appeared Followed by an entire heavenly host.

And the glory of the Lord shone around them, Heralding this special event to those only knowing Who were meant to hear.

Guiding them to the miracle from heaven in a manger

Who would touch so many lives.

The Magi also followed the glowing star to the Messiah, And were among the many who were affected By the miracle of His birth.

The savior giving hope to God’s people, Bringing a light into the world That will last through eternity.

Flynn is a member of Word of God Parish in Swissvale.

Our Mission The Catholic Cemeteries Association (CCA) is a nonprofit corporation affiliated with the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh. The mission of the CCA is to:  Administer the Corporal Work of Mercy of burying the dead and to care for their resting places.  Preserve, promote and protect the Church's teachings on death and resurrection.

 Console the bereaved.  Encourage prayers for the deceased, especially in our Catholic cemeteries.

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20 Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine

Christmas Traditions 2017

Italian biscuits Submitted by Ann Capuano St. Joseph Parish, Verona.

Ingredients

Directions

4 eggs

Beat eggs one at a time — ­ after beating, add sugar a little at a time.

1 cup sugar 1 cup oil 2 tsp. baking powder 2 cups flour

Mix the rest of ingredients in order. Put in a greased baking pan 9 x 13 (after cooking, a toothpick should come out clean).

1 tsp. lemon

Cut in half lengthwise of pan then into 1/3 inch slices. Bake on greased cookie sheet until lightly brown on each side.

1 tsp. anise

Sprinkle with powdered sugar on each side.

1 tsp. vanilla

Cook 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes They freeze well.

NAMAN Continued from Page 15 Lessons My Kindergarten Class Taught Me About Life” (2005), was inspired by her students. In the classroom she was impressed by the children’s thoughtfulness and penned 12 months of poignant life lessons and stories she experienced during the school year.

After submitting six chapters to Random House, and receiving a question from the editor, “Is there more?” she was offered a book contract and 20,000 copies were sold.

Along with author notoriety, praise for her books and book sales, Naman has received national and local radio and television recognition for both “Faces of Hope” books.

She has appeared on television on Fox & Friends and was also featured on the TODAY Show with families from her book.

They all met on the anniversary of the event at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City.

At the 2013 New York Book Festival Awards she received honorable mention for “The Believers” (2011) in the Spiritual Book Category.

“There’s always hope in a national tragedy or a personal struggle,” she said.

“We can’t always make things better, but we can always find the hope that makes things better. Truly, God’s grace is always there — just look.”

Her books are sold online at Amazon.com and Barnesandnoble.com; Sam’s Club; and Barnes and Noble in Monroeville.

Christmas Traditions 2017

Makes a perfect Christmas gift or stocking stuffer for your loved one!

Christmas Lights is available wherever books are sold and online “A delightful holiday treasure.

Uplifting and heartfelt!”

— Gary Jansen, author of Station to Station Visit for more information

Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine 21

Kids' coloring page

Did you know ... ?

When you set up your nativity scene for the holidays, you may not realize that you’re participating in a Christmas tradition begun

by St. Francis of Assisi nearly 800 years ago.

St. Francis recreated the scene of Christ’s birth in a special ritual and Mass he held inside of a cave in Greccio, Italy, inviting both his fellow friars and the townspeople to join in the celebration.

Later he told a friend why he desired to create the first nativity scene in his town: “I want to do something that will recall the memory of that Child who was born in Bethlehem, to see with bodily eyes the inconveniences of his infancy, how he lay in the manger, and how the ox and ass stood by.”

He set up an empty manger (the feeding trough of farm animals which served as Jesus’ crib) inside a cave, and even included a live ox and donkey beside the manger just as it was believed to have happened on that first Christmas night.

—Source: www. catholiccompany. com/getfed

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Congratulations to the winners of our Win Four Seats to see “A Musical Christmas Carol” Contest – Pittsburgh Catholic Magazines: Excellence in Education 2017 - Mrs. Barbara Heim; Disability Awareness 2017 - Joyce Ciccone

22 Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine

Christmas Traditions 2017

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A mourning dove on the author’s widow sill in Pittsburgh.

Conception Abbey, Conception, Missouri

It’s all about love ... (and mourning doves)

By ELIZABETH TAMBURRI

I came to appreciate the charm of mourning doves when I lived in Nevada.

I worked for the Catholic diocese from an office in my home and the window faced a pine tree where the doves nested. My cat, Walter, would sit on the window sill and watch their every move; during breaks I would “coo” at them.

Occasionally, they “cooed” in return.

When I returned to Pittsburgh I moved into a little stone cottage-like place, and it was a nice surprise to hear their familiar song. I often found them outside my bedroom window warming themselves or taking stock of the street from the high ledge. I never believed the two of them followed me from Nevada, but there was always the wonder… like Santa Claus, or the magic spell of birthday candles.

Many things seemed like magic in that house. It was rich with character, and I loved the warmth I felt standing in it. Without a second thought, I signed a mortgage agreement and began

Christmas Traditions 2017

researching its history.

The records of the house were lost, but the lot dated to a time when land was measured into property by the number of steps from a walnut to an oak tree, around the year 1886. For seven years I planted flowers in window boxes, made repairs – both big and small, and paid the mortgage to a private holder.

As it turned out, he was a shrewd man with clever words. Shortly before Thanksgiving In 2016, he took the house back as his own and sold it.

The experience wounded me. My friends, family, the Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh, and Father Leroy helped me navigate through the worst of it while I half-heartedly looked for a new place to live. I remember wondering if the mourning doves would ever find me.

In May, a friend sent me a picture of an abandoned farm house. Empty for a few years, it needed a good deal of work to make it livable. With a knot of resignation, I signed the papers for a two-year stay. While friends tore out rotted carpets and cleared debris from

Blessed be the fruit of the earth and the work of human hands.

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Merry Christmas to all from the Staff of the Pittsburgh Catholic

See Doves, Page 24

Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine 23

The spiritual opportunity of Advent

By PASSIONIST FATHER GERALD LABA During the season of Advent, the Scripture readings and prayers of the liturgy invite us to be watchful as we prepare to welcome Christ into our hearts, our homes and our communities in ways ever new.

The spiritual focus of this season is centered in God’s great desire to be with us in all ways and in our welcoming of Jesus, Our Emmanuel, God-with-us.

This focus is reflected in the hope-filled selections from Sacred Scripture that we will hear throughout the Advent season.

In the midst of the busy days that lead up to our celebration of Christmas, there are many wonderful opportunities to step back and to reflect on the spiritual opportunities that are presented to us at this time of year.

At Saint Paul of the Cross Retreat Center on Pittsburgh’s South Side we are offering two special mid-week programs that will focus on the themes of the Advent season.

On Wednesday, Dec. 6, Capuchin

Father Scott Seethaler, will present a retreat day on the theme “Jesus, Our Greatest Encourager.” During this program Father Scott will reflect on one of the main purposes of the Advent season: to experience the encouraging presence of Jesus as we travel with Him to Christmas on roads that are not always

DOVES Continued from Page 23 the “to-be” house, I packed my things.

I was knee deep in boxes and books when a thank you card for a work event, signed by each of the sisters, fell from the pages of Sacagawea. As I reread their personal notes I remembered they too had to pack their bags and move not so long ago.

The monasteries they moved from in West View and St. Mary’s had been home for most of their lives. The sisters knew each squeaky step, every crack, what time of the day the sunlight lit up the wall and shimmered like a rainbow.

Yet, after 2 years of working for them, including two Christmas seasons when reminiscing is almost mandatory, I hadn’t heard one sister talk about missing either monastery. Oh, they told beautiful stories of life within the walls – the homesickness of the first Christmas Eve fluttering into happiness as the “older” Sisters walked through the halls

24 Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine

The author’s cat Raleigh watching doves through a window.

singing carols on Christmas morning; and baking in the kitchen with Sister Immaculata; and family and friends visiting on Christmas Day. But, nothing about the building … only the love. With the sisters, it is always about the love.

I moved into the farmhouse and the work will be finished just in time for Christmas. This year, I’ll unpack the

smooth. The program will begin at 10 a.m. and conclude at 3 p.m.

On Thursday evening, Dec. 14, Father Eugene Lauer will offer “Reflections on the Development of Advent.” Father Eugene will speak about the initial focus of the Advent season as a time of preparation for the Second Coming of Christ. Later, in the fourth century, the Advent movement became also a preparation for celebrating the “First Coming” of Jesus. This program begins at 4:30 p.m. and concludes at 9 p.m.

Both retreat programs, on Dec. 6 and Dec. 14, will include time for personal prayer, the opportunity for the sacrament of reconciliation, conferences and the celebration of the Eucharist.

We pray that the seasons of Advent and Christmas will help us to grow spiritually in our relationship with Jesus as we experience His Light, His Life, and His Peace in new ways.

Father Gerald is retreat director for St. Paul of the Cross Monastery on Pittsburgh’s South Side. ornaments I’ve kept stored in boxes and bins for so long. It’s time again for a Christmas tree, time to hear friends and family stomping snow from their boots, “we got so lost!” laughter, tinkling glasses, and Christmas “hello’s.”

A fire will burn in a fireplace that has been cold for far too long. The glaze on the glass doors in the living room has been repaired and visible again is a view of nature in reserve — 75-foot willow trees much older than me, and a family of deer that stop every day to eat near the cat tails.

Cobs and seed, and salt licks will be placed out back for them, as well as the squirrels, beaver, rabbits, turkeys, snakes, ground hogs, blue jays and Carolina wrens. The glow of holiday lights hanging from the trees will shimmer through the woods again. This time, marking a path for someone lost ... or maybe, two mourning doves, on their way home.

Tamburri is the director of community advancement for the Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh.

Christmas Traditions 2017

Retirement Fund for Religious Please give to those who have given a lifetime.

“My sister was to be a nun, and I was to be a mother,” says Notre Dame Sister Mary Ann Hanson (foreground), 79, “but God had other plans.” Throughout 61 years of religious life, she has joyfully followed those plans. Along with the senior religious shown here—and 32,000 more across the United States—Sister Mary Ann benefits from the annual Retirement Fund for Religious collection. Your gift helps provide medications, nursing care, and other necessities. Please be generous.

Roughly 94 percent of donations aid senior religious.

www.retiredreligious.org To donate: Make your check payable to Diocese of Pittsburgh. Please write RFR on the memo line.

Name Address City

State

Zip code

Amount enclosed

Retirement Fund for Religious • c/o Department for Consecrated Life • 111 Boulevard of the Allies • Pittsburgh PA 15222-1618 Photo (from left): Sister Gloria Rodríguez, MGSpS, 80; Father Albert Bunsic, OCD, 81; Sister Alfonsina Sanchez, OCD, 96; Sister Mary Ann Hanson, SND, 79. ©2017 United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Photographer: Jim Judkis.

Christmas Traditions 2017

Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine 25

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Take a faith-centered trip to Downtown Pittsburgh

By PEGGY ZEZZA Pope Francis is quoted as saying, “Christmas is joy, religious joy, an inner joy of light and peace.” You can find some of that Christmas joy while visiting Downtown Pittsburgh, an exciting place with lights that shine bright, symbols that stand tall and music that brings enjoyment to all.

Religious joy The most beautiful symbol of the Christmas season stands in U.S. Steel Plaza on Grant Street — the Pittsburgh Creche. There you will find standing in a stable, the larger-than-life figures of Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, angels, the Three Wise Men, shepherds and animals. Part of what makes this creche special is that it is in a public space and accessible 24 hours a day.

Joy of lights The BNY Mellon Season of Light display in Market Square will dazzle visitors with more than 150,000 LED lights shining on the buildings, highlighted by

26 Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine

a 35-foot-tall tree. The tree stands in the Peoples Gas Holiday Market, open until Dec. 23, an old-fashioned European village of wooden chalets full of unique gifts, entertainment, hot beverages and food.

Joy of peace and giving Uniting the world is the Spirits of Giving from Around the World display in Wintergarden of PPG Place, on Stanwix Street at Third Avenue. While visiting PPG Plaza you will probably hear the sounds of people having fun as they glide on skates around a 65-foot tree that stands in the center of the MassMutual Pittsburgh ice skating rink. Even if you don’t skate, it is a great place to visit just to watch the joy on people’s faces, and see the wonderful tree which brings the magic of the season to life.

Joy of Mass While visiting the downtown area, be sure to stop at one of the three Catholic churches to celebrate Mass, or just visit to light a candle and say a prayer.

• St. Mary of Mercy Parish is at 202

Stanwix St. For more information, call 412261-0110, or visit www.stmaryofmercy.org.

• Church of the Epiphany is at 184 Washington Place, next to PPG Paints Arena. For more information, call 412-4710257, or visit www.epiphanychurch.net.

• St. Patrick-St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish consists of two churches in Pittsburgh’s Strip District: St. Patrick, 1711 Liberty Ave. and St. Stanislaus Kostka, 57 21st St. For information, call 412-471-4767, or visit www.saintsinthestrip.org.

Other information • Free parking will be available in all Pittsburgh Parking Authority garages on Saturdays until Dec. 23. For information, call 412-423-8980, or visit www.ParkPGH. org.

For more complete information on holiday events in Downtown Pittsburgh, visit www.downtownpittsburghholidays. com.

Zezza is circulation director and parish news coordinator for the Pittsburgh Catholic.

Christmas Traditions 2017

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Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine 27

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