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Diocese of Fall River, Mass.

Friday, October 20, 2017

Approximately three-thousand students from Catholic schools within the Diocese of Fall River met at Bishop Connolly High School in Fall River for a morning celebrating the 100th anniversary of the final apparition of Our Lady of Fatima. Following a Mass in the outdoor stadium celebrated by Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., the students processed, while praying the Rosary, to a new statue of Our Lady of Fatima on campus for a blessing of the statue and a consecration ceremony. Story on page two. (Photo by Dave Jolivet) The Anchor - October 20, 2017

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A century after sending His mother to three children in Fatima, Christ repeats the gesture one-thousand fold

By Dave Jolivet Anchor Editor davejolivet@anchornews.org

FALL RIVER — One-hundred years after Christ sent His Blessed Mother to three Portuguese shepherd children in Fatima, the Good Lord repeated His loving gesture on October 13 to nearly 3,000 diocesan students gathered in the athletic stadium at Bishop Connolly High School in Fall River to share the Eucharist together, and to be reminded of the message of love, repentance, and conversion His mother shared a century ago.

Thanks to the vision, hard work, planning and execution of a massive undertaking by a committee, comprised of Christopher Myron, Connolly principal; Sandra Drummey, assistant superintendent of schools; Marian Desrosiers, diocesan director of the Pro-Life Apostolate; John E. Kearns Jr., diocesan director of Communications; Beth Mahoney and Deacon Alan Thadeu, and a plethora of helpers, every Catholic school in the Diocese of Fall River sent students to the celebration of the centennial of Our Lady of Fatima’s final appearance to Lucia dos Santos and Francisco and Jacinta Marto, 100 years to the day of the last apparition.

Bus-load after bus-load of students entered the beautiful Fall River campus under the glow of warm sunshine and cloudless skies and made their way to the infield and bleachers of the sports stadium to celebrate Mass with Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., more

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The Anchor - October 20, 2017

On October 13, nearly 3,000 students, representing all of the diocesan Catholic schools, gathered for an outdoor Mass and celebration of the 100th anniversary to the day of the final apparition of Our Lady of Fatima.

(Photo by Dave Jolivet)

than a dozen diocesan priests and school chaplains, deacons and school faculties and staffs.

A glowing Bishop da Cunha welcomed the sea of young people during his homily: “What a joy it is for me to be here with you students this morning.”

“Why are we here?” he asked, and answering his own question, he continued, “We are here to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the apparitions of our Blessed Mother to three children in Portugal, children the same age as some of you.

“We are here to say ‘thank you’ to Our Lord for sending His Blessed Mother with a message of peace, love, prayer and a renewal of people to trust in God. “We are here to honor Our Lady of Fatima and to thank her for her blessings, protection, intercession and her special care and concern for all her children.”

The bishop went on to tell the students that Mary chose to visit three small, simple shepherd children instead of someone famous, wealthy and intelligent.

“Why did she do that?,” he asked. “The Blessed Mother knew they would believe her, accept her message, welcome her words and pass them on to the rest of the world.”

Bishop da Cunha told the throng of students that Mary is asking the same of them today.

“You are all Lucys, Franciscos and Jacintas,” he told them. “Mary is asking us to do the same things: to pray the Rosary, repent, avoid sin and evil, do Penance and sacrifice.

One hundred years later, the world still needs these things.”

Referencing the Gospel read at Mass, the Wedding at Cana, Bishop da Cunha continued, “You heard Mary say in the Gospel, ‘Do whatever Jesus tells you.’ Simple but profound words. Mary is telling you and me today to respect one another, love one another, be as good as we can be, use our gifts and talents for good to make a difference in the world.

“Our world needs a lot of good people doing good things.”

The bishop also challenged the students to go back home and “pray as a family. What a wonderful gift that would be for your home, your Church and the Diocese of Fall River.

“Be proud to be a Catholic. Do

not be ashamed of being Catholic and saying it out loud. Tell others you are happy and proud.”

He concluded by reminding the students to be the new Lucys, Franciscos and Jacintas. “Show the world the Our Lady of Fatima’s blessing and protection over us.

“Thank all of you here for being so prayerful, so quiet and so peaceful. Thank you, and may God bless you and may Our Lady of Fatima watch over you.”

When the Liturgy ended, the bishop led the students in a procession across the campus, while praying the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary, traditionally said on Fridays, to a statue newly-acquired

by Bishop Connolly High School of Our Lady of Fatima, which is to become a permanent fixture on the campus, for a blessing of the statue and to consecrate the diocesan students and all of the Diocese of Fall River to Our Lady of Fatima.

“Dear Our Lady of Fatima, hold our lives in your arms,” said Bishop da Cunha at the conclusion.

“This wonderful event could never have happened if not for the dedication and commitment of the committee,” Stephen A. Perla, diocesan superintendent of schools told The Anchor. “All of the schools were very supportive of sharing the Eucharist and praying for peace in the world through Our Lady of Fatima’s intercession. This was such a beautiful public witness of good Turn to page 14

Newly-built My Brother’s Keeper facility blessed and dedicated

By Kenneth J. Souza Anchor Staff kensouza@anchornews.org

DARTMOUTH — Hundreds of people joined Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., in celebrating the dedication and blessing of the newlybuilt My Brother’s Keeper facility during a Mass on Sunday, October 8.

Located at 1015 Reed Road in Dartmouth, just steps from the building the ministry had been leasing since opening its second location in the fall of 2013, the 18,200-square-foot preengineered metal building will virtually double the organization’s storage capacity, will increase its total deliveries by more than 200 percent, and will allow them to accommodate new programs like a food delivery service.

“This building is not an end itself, but only a means to accomplish our mission and to shine our light brighter for Christ,” said Erich Miller, president of My Brother’s Keeper, during the Liturgy. “Its purpose is to help us serve local families in need in Christ’s name and to nurture each other’s faith as we serve together along the way.”

Sitting on a 22-acre parcel of land that was purchased in November 2015, the sprawling facility is modeled after the ministry’s Easton counterpart and mirrors that building’s look, layout and design — right down to the red brick façade and the iconic statue out front known as “The Divine Servant.” This telling depiction of Christ washing Peter’s feet at the Last Supper is symbolic of the ministry’s mission as inspired by Christ’s words in

Matthew 5:15, “To bring the love and hope of Jesus Christ to those we serve.”

Founded nearly 30 years ago by Jim and Terry Orcutt, who modestly began the charitable work of

Christ sacrificed His life for us,” said Jim Orcutt.

“Our volunteers serve the poor with kindness and compassion as a sign that Christ is alive in His people.”

go forth from this building to serve God’s people in the name of Jesus Christ,” Orcutt said. “May this Mass that we celebrate together, inspire each of us to continue to

Bishop da Cunha praised the good work of My Brother’s Keeper and said the ministry epitomizes Christ’s call to “treat each other with kindness and to love your neighbor as yourself.”

“Whatever you do for the least of My brothers, you do it for Me,” the bishop said. “Isn’t that what Jesus asks of us?

And isn’t that what My Brother’s Keeper does?

But to do it with joy, with love, with generosity and faith, knowing that you are making a difference in the lives of other people.

If you love God, you have to show it by loving one another. You can’t love God if you don’t love your neighbor.”

Bishop da Cunha said Erich Miller, center, president of My Brother’s Keeper, cuts the ribbon alongside mem- he was honored to preside bers of the ministry’s board of directors during the opening of the new Dartmouth facil- over the Mass, dedication ity on October 8. The dedication included a blessing and Liturgy celebration presided and blessing of the new over by Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V. (Photo by Kenneth J. Souza) facility and that the work being done here will not delivering furniture, freeOrcutt thanked Bishop live out our faith by servonly impact the lives of of-charge, to local families da Cunha for coming to ing those in need for the those being served, but the in need from the cellar of greater glory of God.” bless “our new home and ministry’s many servants their Taunton home back During his homily, the work we perform in Turn to page five in 1988, My Brother’s the name of Jesus.”

Keeper eventually expand“In the years to come, ed to a facility located ad- thousands of people will jacent to Stonehill College and Holy Cross Family Ministries in Easton.

Although it doesn’t attempt to evangelize and there are no religious requirements to participate, with each furniture delivery My Brother’s Keeper offers a crucifix with the message: “We’re just the delivery people; this is the Man Who sent you the furniture.” Families receiving help are free to accept or decline the cross and anyone living in the service area is eligible to receive help, regardless of religious beliefs.

“We gift those whom we serve a crucifix as a sign that out of love, The Anchor - October 20, 2017 3

State Rep opposes latest physician-assisted suicide bill

By Kenneth J. Souza Anchor Staff kensouza@anchornews.org

FALL RIVER — As a Catholic, State Representative Alan Silvia of the 7th Bristol District in Fall River, recently felt compelled to speak in opposition to House Bill H-1194 — the latest version of a proposed physician-assisted suicide law during a hearing at the State House on September 26.

“There’s been a series of these bills submitted over the past few years; I know there has been at least one every session since 2009 in Massachusetts,” Representative Silvia recently told The Anchor. “And of course we had the ballot question in 2012 — that was known as Question 2, or ‘Death with Dignity,’ and it was defeated by 52 percent — a small margin.”

According to Representative Silvia, the push for getting this end-of-life law passed here and in other states has only increased since Oregon approved its “Death With Dignity” law in 2002.

“It continues to be introduced here in the Commonwealth and, of course, my concern is that now there are several states that already have assisted suicide,” he said. “Within the

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past year 17 states have already attempted to file bills calling them everything from ‘Death with Dignity’ to ‘Dying with Dignity’ to ‘End of Life Options’ and even ‘Aid in Dying,’ when in all reality they just aid in killing.”

Although the bill keeps resurfacing in different versions, Representative Silvia said thus far “it hasn’t gone anywhere.”

“It’s stayed in committee and one of the reasons why I was so eager to testify was all of this concern suddenly with the rising costs of health care,” he said. “Now it’s being looked at because people are becoming a ‘burden’ to their families and using that as a reason or justification to commit suicide. But if suicide is wrong, isn’t doctor-assisted suicide just as wrong?”

As a Pro-Life supporter and someone who believes in the sanctity of all life from birth to natural death, Representative Silvia said it doesn’t make sense to him that doctors would be obligated to do something that goes against the Hippocratic Oath.

“Medical and health care professionals have taken a pledge to preserve life,” he said. “You know if a bill like this passes, this really is asking doctors to prescribe

The Anchor - October 20, 2017

death. It’s causing a distrust in the health care community in the states where physician-assisted suicide is legal.”

While he can certainly sympathize with families who are faced with the difficult challenges of watching a loved one get sick and slowly die, he firmly believes that “the intentional taking of a human life is always wrong.”

“It all comes down to killing someone when it’s not their time to go,” Representative Silvia added.

“We have an obligation and a responsibility to make sure we’re not doing that as good Christians. We came here naturally, we should leave this world naturally.”

Citing his own personal experience of watching his mother slowly pass away, Representative Silvia said it gave him an opportunity to prepare, say goodbye and tell her how much he loved her.

“I just held her hand and prayed,” he said. “As I said in my testimony, there’s only dignity in living, there’s no dignity in dying. It’s what we do in our life that’s substantial and important.”

Noting that H-1194 had equal numbers of supporters and detractors during the recent hearing, Representative Silvia said it was interesting that on the very same day the American College of Physicians — which boasts about 200,000 members nationwide — came out in opposition to physician-assisted suicide.

“It was interesting to have that happen while this was going on,” he said.

“And the reason they are opposed to it is because it goes against the reason they became physicians.

They became health care

providers to preserve and save lives. If this bill passes, you’re really putting the health care profession in a bad place and you’re putting that loved one in a situation where they are taking their life without the need to do that.”

reason for choosing a legal overdose in Oregon is fear of being a burden and loss of autonomy and being unable to enjoy certain activities. So it’s all for the wrong reasons.”

The state representative and vice chairman of the

State Representative Alan Silvia, far right, testifies in opposition to House Bill H-1194, the latest proposed physician-assisted suicide law at the Massachusetts State House during a hearing on September 26. (Photo courtesy of Representative Alan Silvia, 7th Bristol District, Fall River)

According to Representative Silvia, the latest argument for physicianassisted suicide seems to be fueled by the rising costs of health care and people not wanting to be a burden and creating a financial hardship for their loved ones.

“Health care is so expensive, they look at this as a reason to euthanize,” he said. “They don’t want to be a burden to their family because of the rising costs of health care ­— so that’s supposed to be a reason to commit suicide?

“One of the amazing things is that I had a conversation with a doctor from Oregon who was here testifying as well. Most people think the reason behind the Oregon legislation — and why people were asking to be euthanized — was because of pain. But it’s not about pain at all — that’s the big lie. The top

Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security also pointed to the fact that here in Massachusetts we have some of the best palliative and end-oflife care in the world, with programs like Hospice that work closely with the family and the person who is nearing death.

“So when people say, ‘I don’t want them to suffer,’ well, there is no suffering,” he said. “We have palliative care that is so advanced these days, that no one is laying in a bed suffering or shivering in pain with the medications that are available. If a physician is there and there’s palliative care taking place, there is no suffering. They are giving them the medications they need — and they will die naturally.”

Representative Silvia also fears the “slippery slope” Turn to page five

Newly-built My Brother’s Keeper site blessed continued from page three

as well.

“What you do makes a difference in the lives of so many people, but it’s probably making a difference in your life as well,” the bishop said. “Many of you have probably never stood here at a podium and preached to a large crowd, but, you know what?

With your good deeds you have preached. You may have brought others to Jesus by your good deeds; and good deeds speak louder than words. So keep up the good deeds in the name of Christ — bringing His presence and love to those you meet along your way.”

For Miller, the fact that this project progressed so quickly — from site acquisition, to design and engineering, to permitting and financing, to fund-raising and construction — all in less than two years just proves “the power of a Christian community in action.”

“I’ve been told by people in the construction industry that doing so much in such a short period of time would be an incredible accomplishment for a professional developer, much less a nonprofit,” he said. “But thankfully we had thousands of people like yourselves, who believe deeply in our mission: to bring the love and hope of Jesus Christ to those we serve. Each person was willing to help in his or her own special way.”

According to Josh Smith, director of the Dartmouth site, since opening the second location the ministry has grown by leaps and bounds and now makes about 800 furniture deliveries a year.

“This new building is going to allow us to do so much more,” he said. “There is a lot of need in this community and this facility will give us the ability to not only serve more people, but also serve them better in Christ’s name. It’s a very exciting day.”

And while the new Dartmouth facility will continue the ministry’s charitable outreach in providing furniture, food and Christmas assistance to families in need

in the greater Fall River and New Bedford areas, Miller said there’s more work planned in the coming months.

“It’s important for us to be good stewards of this land that God has blessed us with, and so we will build a Rosary walk through the wooded portion of the property, so people from all over the region can prayerfully enjoy it,” he said. “It’s good for us to take this time today to celebrate this wonderful milestone, but let’s not forget the most important point: now is when the real work begins.”

Miller expressed gratitude for the many volunteers and supporters who have embraced My Brother’s Keeper and its mission and said it is “our great privilege to be (Christ’s) heart and hands in the world today — to bring help and hope to our more humble brothers and sisters.”

“God will touch countless lives in the coming years through this building and, most especially, through this very, very special community,” Miller said. “Before you came here today, if anyone was unsure of our commitment to families in need on the Southcoast, this building speaks loud and clear that we are all in. My Brother’s Keeper is invested in this community for the long run.

And I hope we can count on every one of you to be with us for the long run, too.”

Bishop da Cunha echoed Miller’s sentiments, saying he is grateful for the charitable work of My Brother’s Keeper and its many volunteers.

“What a beautiful testimony to their faith and the generosity of so many people, who want to reach out and share their gifts and their resources and their blessings with others,” he said.

“What a blessing it is to be able to do that and to find joy in it.

The more we give, the more we receive.”

To donate, volunteer or learn more about My Brother’s Keeper, visit www.MyBrothersKeeper.org or call 774-305-4577.

Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in Seekonk recently hosted an “Everlasting Message of Fatima Event.” Father Maximilian M. Warnischer, F.I., blessed and enrolled 40 parishioners in Our Lady’s Brown Scapular during the event. (Photo by Marty Doyle)

State Rep opposes latest physician-assisted suicide bill continued from page four

that could result from passage of this bill — eventually extending to people who are developmentally challenged or who require expensive medical procedures at an advanced age.

“In Holland, where this first started, people who are depressed are trying to end their life and there’s actually a roving patrol of doctors and if you want to sign the documentation that you are depressed and are a burden you can be given the medication you need to die,” he said. “These end-of-life issues are being sold to the public in very submissive and strange ways.”

Some of the language in H-1194 also calls for what is tantamount to the falsification of a person’s death certificate.

“In this bill, it calls for giving the cause of death on the death certificate as the underlying disease,” he said. “So let’s say the person has cancer — the death certificate would list the cause of death as cancer, rather than physicianassisted suicide. That’s lying on the death certificate. The cause of death is not cancer. Some people

with cancer can live for 15 or 20 years. The actual cause of death was a prescription written by a doctor and filled by pharmacist that they knew would result in death.”

With the bill currently in committee and destined to be put up for a vote, Representative Silvia said it was important for him to speak out.

“I’m not sure what’s going to happen, that’s why it’s good for people to know so that if it is released from committee and does hit the floor, people can call their legislators and let them know how they feel,” he said.

Adding that medicine “is not an exact science,” the state rep recalled meeting a doctor at the hearing who himself was given six months to live.

That was a year-and-a-half ago.

“He’s in his early 90s and he’s still alive and is opposed to physician-assisted suicide,” Representative Silvia said. “Part of his reason is he hasn’t done anything extraordinary, but he was told he would be dead in six months. And that wasn’t the case at all. So who are we to decide when it’s time? Let God decide.”

The Anchor - October 20, 2017

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Anchor Editorial

Untying the selfishness which binds us

On Columbus Day, Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha preached to a full congregation at the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption about Pope Francis’ promotion of “Share the Journey,” a project of the Catholic Church to promote understanding of the lives of immigrants and refugees. In his introductory remarks at the beginning of the Mass (which was the annual Mass for Peace, held since the 1970s in October), our bishop said that the Holy Father asked us to “pray for the immigrants and refugees, so that God will continue to inspire us to be builders, instruments of peace.”

The lack of peace in so many countries of the world is often the cause of migrant flows from one country to another, as people seek to find a place where they can live without the fear of death at the hands of a dictatorial government, a terrorist organization or a brutal gang. “Someone’s selfishness made them have to leave their own home,” our bishop noted. Later in his homily he enumerated reasons people had to flee: “to find safety from violence, to get away from civil wars, to avoid having their daughters taken for the sex trade and their sons forced into wars or gangs.”

Bishop da Cunha said that “we all want [peace],” but the lack of peace in our world is rooted in “selfishness, lack of faith, and a resistance to conversion. [In] all of the acts of violence and all of the lack of peace, deep down there is someone being selfish.”

“The need to pray for peace and promote justice and welcoming the stranger is so necessary today and is so much of what we’re called to be.” However, the bishop added, “prayer needs to be accompanied by actions.” He then called upon everyone to respect their neighbors, including those who are different from them.

The bishop asked, regarding the immigrants and refugees amongst us, “do they find welcome?” Mentioning the Holy Father’s new campaign, Bishop da Cunha said, “These are the people Pope Francis challenges us to embrace and to hold dear to our hearts. He invites us to consider how Jesus would respond to those desperate children of God.” Since the Peace Mass is always celebrated before a statue of Our Lady of Fatima, the bishop reminded the congregation that the message of Fatima is “conversion, accepting God’s plan. We need to incarnate that message for today. She didn’t go to Fatima to create tourism, but for the transformation of each person and of the world.”

Later in the week, on Saturday, October 14, the bishop returned to the cathedral to celebrate the Red Mass (the Mass of the Holy Spirit, invoking the Spirit’s guidance upon the legal community in our area). He quoted the famous line from Blessed Paul VI, “If you want peace, work for justice.” To that, he added, “Justice is the foundation for peace and for a peaceful world. Anger, resentment, which in many cases leads to violence, comes from the reality or the perception — wrong as it may be — that one was not treated fairly, that justice was denied.”

At the Red Mass the bishop was preaching on the readings for the 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time, including the Gospel (Mt 22:1-14) in which the king (standing in for God in the parable), orders regarding the person who came to His banquet without a “wedding garment,” “Bind his hands and feet, and cast him into the darkness outside, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth.”

The bishop drew a contrast between this punishment and what Jesus ordered be done to the resurrected Lazarus ( Jn 11:44), “Untie him and let him go.” Our shepherd then localized these Gospels and said, “We all need to be untied, to be let go free. What are the things that I need to free myself from? How can I help others be OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF FALL RIVER www.anchornews.org

Vol. 61, No. 18

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The Anchor - October 20, 2017

free? What to they need to be freed from?”

The answers the bishop was driving at with his questions were situations of selfishness and sin — either of the person themselves or sins of others, which were binding innocent victims. Into these situations, the bishop was calling upon us to be “ambassadors for Christ,” to bring true freedom to people.

Pope Francis in August released his annual message for World Migration Day, which will be observed on Jan. 14, 2018. He entitled it, “Welcoming, protecting, promoting and integrating migrants and refugees.” In the message he discusses how we are to do each of those actions. “[W]elcoming means, above all, offering broader options for migrants and refugees to enter destination countries safely and legally. This calls for a concrete commitment to increase and simplify the process for granting humanitarian visas and for reunifying families. The principle of the centrality of the human person, firmly stated by my beloved predecessor, Benedict XVI, obliges us to always prioritize personal safety over national security,” Pope Francis wrote.

“The second verb — protecting — may be understood as a series of steps intended to defend the rights and dignity of migrants and refugees, independent of their legal status. Such protection begins in the country of origin, and consists in offering reliable and verified information before departure, and in providing safety from illegal recruitment practices. I hope that, in countries of arrival, migrants may be offered freedom of movement, work opportunities, and access to means of communication, out of respect for their dignity. The universal right to a nationality should be recognized and duly certified for all children at birth. Migratory status should not limit access to national health care and pension plans, nor affect the transfer of their contributions if repatriated,” the Holy Father explained.

“Promoting essentially means a determined effort to ensure that all migrants and refugees — as well as the communities which welcome them — are empowered to achieve their potential as human beings, in all the dimensions which constitute the humanity intended by the Creator. We must recognize the true value of the religious dimension, ensuring to all foreigners in any country the freedom of religious belief and practice. Many migrants and refugees have abilities which must be appropriately recognized and valued. I encourage a determined effort to promote the social and professional inclusion of migrants and refugees, guaranteeing for all — including those seeking asylum — the possibility of employment, language instruction and active citizenship, together with sufficient information provided in their mother tongue.”

“The final verb — integrating — concerns the opportunities for intercultural enrichment brought about by the presence of migrants and refugees. Integration is not ‘an assimilation that leads migrants to suppress or to forget their own cultural identity. Rather, contact with others leads to discovering their “secret,” to being open to them in order to welcome their valid aspects and thus contribute to knowing each one better. This is a lengthy process that aims to shape societies and cultures, making them more and more a reflection of the multi-faceted gifts of God to human beings’ (here Pope Francis quoted St. John Paul II). I reiterate the need to foster a culture of encounter in every way possible — by increasing opportunities for intercultural exchange, documenting and disseminating best practices of integration, and developing programs to prepare local communities for integration processes.”

May we carry this out.

Daily Readings October 21 – November 3

Upcoming Daily Readings: Sat. Oct. 21, Rom 4:13,16-18; Ps 105:6-9,4243; Lk 12:8-12. Sun. Oct. 22, Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Is 45:1,4-6; Ps 96:1,3-5,7-10; 1 Thes 1:1-5b; Mt 22:15-21. Mon. Oct. 23, Rom 4:20-25; (Ps) Lk 1:69-75; Lk 12:13-21. Tues. Oct. 24, Rom 5:12,15b,1719,20b-21; Ps 40:7-10,17; Lk 12:35-38. Wed. Oct. 25, Rom 6:12-18; Ps 124:1-8; Lk 12:39-48. Thurs. Oct. 26, Rom 6:19-23; Ps 1:1-4,6; Lk 12:49-53.

Fri. Oct. 27, Rom 7:18-25a; Ps 119:60,68,76-77,93-94; Lk 12:54-59.

Sat. Oct. 28, Eph 2:19-22; Ps 19:2-5; Lk 6:12-16. Sun. Oct. 29, Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Ex 22:20-26; Ps 18:2-4,47,51; 1 Thes 1:5c-10; Mt 22:34-40. Mon. Oct. 30, Rom 8:12-17; Ps 68:2,4,6-7,20-21; Lk 13:10-17.

Tues. Oct. 31, Rom 8:18-25; Ps 126:1-6; Lk 13:18-21. Wed. Nov. 1, All Saints Day, Rv 7:2-4,9-14; Ps 24:1bc4b,5-6; 1 Jn 3:1-3; Mt 5:1-12a. Thurs. Nov. 2, All Souls Day, Wis 3:1-9; Ps 23:1-6; Rom 5:5-11 or Rom 6:3-9; Jn 6:37-40 or 1011-1016. Fri. Nov. 3, Rom 9:1-5; Ps 147:12-15,19-20; Lk 14:1-6.

T

wenty years ago today was one of the most remarkable days of my life.

It occurred during a phone call with my mother. And I would challenge those who doubt that miracles happen to provide a more plausible explanation for the series of events I’m about to relate.

Everything began the day before, Oct. 19, 1997, when St. John Paul II declared the Little Flower of Lisieux, St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face, a doctor of the Church. I always have had a special love for her since I read her Spiritual autobiography “Story of a Soul” at 20. To celebrate the centenary of her birth into eternal life a few weeks earlier, on September 30, I had gone to Lisieux with seminarian friends studying with me in Rome. But as memorable as that celebration was, for me it was only a prelude to her becoming by far the youngest ever to be given by the Church the only doctorate that eternally matters — this for a girl who never attended high school, not to mention university or graduate programs.

For that Mass I had extraordinary seats. A friend of mine was a papal chamberlain, one of those responsible for seating the diplomats, bishops and other VIPs close to the altar.

He was a highly successful Canadian lawyer who had come to Rome in his 50s to study for the priesthood.

Because it had been some time since he had taken notes in class, he cajoled me for a copy of the notes I was taking with the first laptop to grace the student desks of the University of St. Thomas.

Knowing what he did at papal Liturgies, I told him it would cost him: one day I would ask him for a special seat at a papal Liturgy! He was happy to take the deal.

St. Thérèse, teacher and thaumaturga

that, minimally, she would card directly to Lowell, it that day, before the mail Two years later, I came appreciate getting a card still probably wouldn’t have had arrived, she had gotten collecting. from her son. gotten there by that time. a call from my aunt asking He sat me in the second About 9 p.m. that Sunday Dumbfounded, I asked her to come to see her at row, to the right facing the night I put the cards in the her to read me what I had her doctor’s office. The altar. During the Liturgy, Vatican post office mail slot written in the card; the doctor had come into the the crucifix and the relics of in St. Peter’s Square. I knew words she said were those I room looking strange and St. Thérèse that had been that at 9 a.m. the following had written the night before. telling her that he needed brought to the Vatican were morning the mail would “That’s a miracle!” I to re-run various tests for showered with red rose exclaimed, not able to get my confirmation. My aunt petals, a tangible reminder of be collected, brought to mind around how thought he was about to the promise she made that card had arrived return to tell her she would on her deathbed: Putting Into faster than humanly have days or weeks left. She “After my death, I will possible. But my didn’t want to receive the let fall a shower of the Deep shock would soon news alone. So my mother roses. I will spend my grow. hustled over there to await Heaven doing good

By Father “How did the results with her. When upon earth.”

Roger J. Landry you know I was the doctor returned, he told When the Mass praying a novena my aunt that there was no was done and St. Fiumicino Airport, flown to to St. Thérèse?” my mother trace of cancer.

John Paul II had departed, Switzerland — where the queried.

My mother was obviously the “Sagrato” or altar area “I didn’t,” I answered, my overjoyed and divulged cleared out quickly. I noticed Vatican has an agreement to help with its international spine beginning quickly to that she had been praying that where the crucifix and mail — and then put on a chill. “I didn’t even know you a novena to St. Thérèse to the relics had been were had a devotion to her. What finish on the day of my about a hundred rose petals. plane for the U.S. Normally mail from the Vatican to day of the novena is it?” aunt’s doctor’s appointment, I decided to make a bold Lowell, Massachusetts, takes “The ninth!” she blurted but, strangely, my mother attempt to go collect some. seven to 10 days. out.

Overwhelmed, I didn’t added, she had been waiting I collected a sizable handful The following afternoon, say anything for quite some for a rose to announce where the crucifix was about 5 p.m. — 9 a.m. on time. that her novena had been and then another that had the east coast — my mother “Well, Ma, that seems like answered, but none had showered her relics. When called me. She thanked me a pretty obvious sign that come. She returned home I saw no one else coming, profusely for the card. whatever you were praying grateful but bewildered. and fearing some might be “What card?,” I asked. for will probably be granted. Then she picked up the mail. wasted, I filled both cassock “The card with the rose What was your intention?”

It was when she opened pockets. I returned to the She said she was praying my card that she saw the seminary happier and feeling petals from St. Thérèse,” she replied. for a miracle for my great rose petals and immediately luckier than a chocolate“What are you talking Aunt Gertrude, who was called me. loving kid returning home about?,” I retorted. dying of cancer.

That happened 20 years on Halloween.

“You sent me a card with Filled with gratitude and ago today, and my shock, Later that night, I started the rose petals that touched tears, I confessed, “Well, we awe and gratitude to God — to share the red fragrant St. Thérèse’s relics.” should have great hope that and to the youngest doctor treasure with those I knew I told her that that Mass that she will receive some of the Church — hasn’t had devotions to the Little happened just the day time of healing, one way or waned.

Flower, making envelopes before and that even if the another.”

Anchor columnist for friends in Rome who Concorde had been waiting “Let me finish!” my Father Landry can be were Carmelites, women in St. Peter’s Square at 9 mother insistently rejoined. contacted at fatherlandry@ and religious Sisters named a.m.

Rome time to fly the She told me that earlier catholicpreaching.com.

Thérèse, seminarians and priests who loved her. Still having many, I made cards to send them to similar categories of people in the FALL RIVER — The Diocese of Fall River Catholic Schools Office States. Because I had not yet is excited to announce a new website for the Catholic Schools Alliance exhausted them, I decided to send some to my mother.

— www.CatholicSchoolsAlliance.org. The new Catholic Schools As far as I could recall, she Alliance website is focused on promoting the 22 schools in the Diocese had never mentioned St. of Fall River and raising awareness about what makes our schools special.

Thérèse to me — her clear devotion of choice was We invite you to take a look at the new website and to share it with your and is Our Lady — but friends. If you have questions please contact Sarah Heaton at sheaton@ her mother’s middle name csalliance.org or 508-678-2828. was Thérèse and I thought

Diocesan Schools Office announces new website

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7

Does toxic masculinity have a counterpart?

I

n a large segment of the popular culture, there has been a disturbing analysis of recent events which tries to explain why there have been acts of reprehensible behavior, of violence, and betrayal. The problem, in their world view lies solely at the feet of men, who carry within themselves the seed of “toxic masculinity.” Sadly, frustratingly, maddeningly, men are at fault simply because they are men — too much men, and if we could just talk them down off their masculine pedestals, their seat of privilege as it were, the world would be a more peaceful and just place. Or to turn Professor Higgins on his head, “Why can’t a man be

8

his seed to fruition. more like a woman?”

In his work, “The In this regard, we need Original Unity of Man to prayerfully revisit the consequences of Original and Woman,” Pope St. John Paul II insisted that Sin, which affected men the template of healthy and women differently.

For both, certainly, their rebellion had a twofold The effect of severing Feminine their prior intimacy with God Genius and compromisBy Genevieve Kineke ing their relations with each other.

Moreover, both male-female relations suffered a darkening of the intellect, a weakening was found in the time that existed before the of the will, and a disorfall. In that brief, harmodering of the passions.

Man, in particular, would nious setting, man and find work — the very toil woman communed easily essential to sustaining the with God and each other family — a great burden, without grasping, and without succumbing to and woman would sufstifling self-interest. The fer from the abuse of his authority and in bringing man gave himself generously to the woman, who received him with joy, and the mutual exchange echoed out to Creation, fostering a culture of love and life. Despite myriad obstacles which exist now, we are still required to pursue that collaboration by accepting God’s grace to pursue lives of virtue and mutual service.

As we look at our current culture of animosity, distrust, and accusation, to say that the world is dysfunctional strictly

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because of “toxic masculinity” is wrong on two levels. First of all, violence and aggression are neither authentically masculine nor worthy of any human person. Can we call such behaviors “toxic”? Certainly, but only if we recognize how men are called to holiness. A man is to use his strength, his aptitude, and his gifts as means to protect those entrusted to his care — beginning with his family. He is called to create, to guard what he has created, and to refrain from abusing those who are weaker or less apt, all of which require discipline, restraint, and selflessness. A tall order!

If, though, we agree to the term “toxic” for some male actions, then we must turn the spotlight around to women and ask how they are prone to corrupting their femininity. Women on a wide scale are rejecting chastity, Marriage, motherhood, and creative collaboration with men. Having pointed to men’s corruption, we must admit that many women abuse their own creative powers,

by replacing love with manipulation, and cooperation with contempt for authentic masculinity. Thus, too many men and women have issued a non serviam, and while masculinity is targeted as the root evil of today, the suggestion that we must “feminize” men is to ask them to act in ways that women themselves have abandoned.

Bullies and beasts are reprehensible, for sin is sin. Still, it falls to men and women to search their souls and rediscover healthy ways of working together.

Sexuality is not a single continuum with excesses on each and an ideal middle ground, but the source of a rich complementarity, relying on two distinct vocations.

Truly, it is only when we return to the Godgiven template of the Garden that we will find a path of authentic joy and mutual love — and the urgent needs of the next generation impel us to do this sooner rather than later.

Anchor columnist Mrs. Kineke is the author of “ The Authentic Catholic Woman.” She blogs at feminine-genius.typepad. com.

The 10th anniversary Mass of the ordination of the 2007 class of permanent deacons recently took place at Holy Trinity Parish in West Harwich. From left: Deacons Del Malloy, Peter Cote, Mike Zongetti, Alan Thadeau, Dan Donovan, Bishop Edgar da Cunha, S.D.V., John Foley, David Pierce, Joe McGinley, and Victor Norton. The four deacons from that class not in attendance were Steve Minninger, Dick Lemay, Joe Kane, and Karl Buder. (Photo

by Barbara Foley)

P

ope Francis addressed an audience of Church hierarchy gathered together to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the promulgation of the “Catechism of the Catholic Church” and declared in no uncertain terms that the death penalty is “contrary to the Gospel.” The “Catechism” teaches that it is the right and duty of public authorities “to punish malefactors with penalties commensurate with the gravity of the crime, not excluding, in extreme cases, the death penalty.” St. John Paul II and Pope Benedict tried to clarify this teaching, and as a result the Church currently teaches that “the cases in which the execution of the offender is an absolute necessity are very rare if not practically nonexistent.”

Pope Francis removed all ambiguity when he said that the death penalty was “inadmissible” and that official Catholic teaching should be changed to reflect that.

This statement is going to be lauded by bishops’ conferences around the world, but condemned by 46 percent of American Catholics.

Pope Francis’ rationale is grounded in the Church’s strongly-held belief in the defense of human dignity. “I

Restorative justice am convinced that this way tice. According to the Center is the best, since every life is for Justice and Reconciliation, Sacred, every human person “Restorative justice is a theory is endowed with an inalienof justice that emphasizes able dignity, and society can repairing the harm caused only benefit from the rehaby criminal behavior. It is bilitation of those convicted best accomplished through of crimes,” Pope Francis said. a cooperative process that “It must be strongly stated includes all stakeholders. This that condemning a person to can lead to the transformathe death penalty is an inhumane measure.”

A 2016 Pew Research study of support The Great for the death penalty Commission found that those who oppose its use do not

By Claire McManus believe it is a deterrent to crime, and that there is a danger of executing an tion of people, relationships innocent person. Those who and communities.” support the use of the death The underlying principles penalty believe that it is mor- of restorative justice are that ally acceptable when a murder crimes do not just break laws, has been committed. Missing they cause harm to people, refrom this debate is the impact lationships, and the commuthat the death penalty has on nity. The only people able to the victims of these crimes. determine how to repair the Although there may be some harm that was done are the immediate satisfaction that victim and the perpetrator of justice has been done, in what the crime. In order to accomway does the death penalty plish restorative justice there help to restore the lives of the must be agreement by the victims? criminal and victim to meet Over the past 30 years and discuss the harm that was there has been a movement done and how to repair it. to reform the criminal justice Restorative justice has been system worldwide. What has applied in the most egreresulted from this reform is gious of crimes throughout the concept of restorative jus- the world. After the 1994

genocide in Rwanda, when their traditional courts were decimated, the government turned to a system of justice called Gacaca. The literal translation is “on the grass,” which describes where the trial takes place. Gacaca is a restorative system which allows perpetrators responsible for crimes including isolated murder and destruction of property during the genocide to decrease their prison sentences if they plead guilty, apologize, and agree to supplement their shortened jail time with community service. A panel of judges were in place outside where the victims sat on one side facing their assailants.

Those criminals who refused to admit guilt and apologize received the maximum sentence of life in prison, while others admitted the harm they caused and after serving their time, were reintegrated into their community.

Although this form of justice seems too lenient, we need only look at our own Catholic tradition for its application. Maria Goretti was a teen-age girl who lived in Italy in the early 1900s. She fought off the sexual assault

perpetrated by a family friend who then brutally murdered her. Before she died she forgave her assailant, who was brought to justice and placed in prison. While he was in prison he repented of his crime after a dream in which Maria again forgave him. When he was eventually released 27 years later he went to Maria’s mother and asked forgiveness, and spent the rest of his life in a monastery. Maria Goretti was later canonized, and although she is considered the patron saint of chastity, her heroic act of forgiveness should make her the patron of restorative justice.

It does no good to simply object to the death penalty when there is no consideration given to restoring the harm that was done to the victim. Restorative justice is not tantamount to being soft on crime, but looks at crime more holistically. It is a victim-centric approach that focuses on repairing the harm done, holding the criminal accountable, and restoring the basic human dignity of both.

Anchor columnist Claire McManus is the director of the Diocesan Office of Faith Formation.

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Message of Pope Francis for World Mission Sunday Dear brothers and sisters, Once again this year, World Mission Day gathers us around the Person of Jesus, “the very first and greatest Evangelizer” (Paul VI, Evangelii Nuntiandi, 7), who continually sends us forth to proclaim the Gospel of the love of God the Father in the power of the Holy Spirit.

This day invites us to reflect anew on the mission at the heart of the Christian faith.

The Church is missionary by nature; otherwise, she would no longer be the Church of Christ, but one group among many others that soon end up serving their purpose and passing away. So it is important to ask ourselves certain questions about our Christian identity and our responsibility as believers in a world marked by confusion, disappointment and frustration, and torn by numerous fratricidal wars that unjustly target the innocent.

What is the basis of our mission? What is the heart of our mission? What are the essential approaches we need to take in carrying out our mission?

Mission and the transformative power of the Gospel of Christ, the Way, the Truth and the Life 1. The Church’s mission, directed to all men and women of goodwill, is based on the transformative power of the Gospel. The Gospel is Good News filled with contagious joy, for it contains and offers new life: the life of the Risen Christ Who, by bestowing His life-giving Spirit, becomes for us the Way, the Truth and the Life (cf. Jn 14:6). He is the Way Who invites us to follow Him with confidence and courage. In following Jesus as our Way, we experience Truth and receive His Life, which is fullness of communion with God the Father in the power of the Holy Spirit. That life sets us free from every kind of selfishness, and is a source of creativity in love.

2. God the Father desires

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Mission at the heart of the Christian faith

this existential transformation of His sons and daughters, a transformation that finds expression in worship in spirit and truth (cf. Jn 4:23-24), through a life guided by the Holy Spirit in imitation of Jesus the Son to the glory of God the Father. “The glory of God is the living man” (St. Irenaeus, Adversus Haereses IV, 20, 7). The preaching of the Gospel thus becomes a vital and effective word that accomplishes what it proclaims (cf. Is 55:10-11): Jesus Christ, Who constantly takes flesh in every human situation (cf. Jn 1:14).

Mission and the kairos of Christ 3. The Church’s mission, then, is not to spread a religious ideology, much less to propose a lofty ethical teaching. Many movements throughout the world inspire high ideals or ways to live a meaningful life. Through the mission of the Church, Jesus Christ Himself continues to evangelize and act; her mission thus makes present in history the kairos, the favorable time of Salvation.

Through the proclamation of the Gospel, the Risen Jesus becomes our contemporary, so that those who welcome Him with faith and love can experience the transforming power of His Spirit, Who makes humanity and Creation fruitful, even as the rain does with the earth. “His Resurrection is not an event of the past; it contains a vital power which has permeated this world. Where all seems to be dead, signs of the Resurrection suddenly spring up. It is an irresistible force” (Evangelii Gaudium, 276).

4. Let us never forget that “being Christian is not the result of an ethical choice or a lofty idea, but the encounter with an event, a Person, which gives life a new horizon and a decisive direction” (Benedict XVI, Deus Caritas Est, 1). The Gospel is a Person Who continually offers Himself and constantly invites those who

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receive Him with humble and religious faith to share His life by an effective participation in the Paschal Mystery of His death and Resurrection.

Through Baptism, the Gospel becomes a source of new life, freed of the dominion of sin, enlightened and transformed by the Holy Spirit.

Through Confirmation, it becomes a fortifying anointing that, through the same Spirit, points out new ways and strategies for witness and accompaniment. Through the Eucharist, it becomes food for new life, a “medicine of immortality” (St. Ignatius of Antioch, Ad Ephesios, 20, 2).

5. The world vitally needs the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Through the Church, Christ continues His mission as the Good Samaritan, caring for the bleeding wounds of humanity, and as Good Shepherd, constantly seeking out those who wander along winding paths that lead nowhere. Thank God, many significant experiences continue to testify to the transformative power of the Gospel. I think of the gesture of the Dinka student who, at the cost of his own life, protected a student from the enemy Nuer tribe who was about to be killed. I think of that Eucharistic celebration in Kitgum, in northern Uganda, where, after brutal massacres by a rebel group, a missionary made the people repeat the words of Jesus on the cross: “My God, My God, why have You abandoned Me?” as an expression of the desperate cry of the brothers and sisters of the crucified Lord.

For the people, that celebration was an immense source of consolation and courage.

We can think too, of countless testimonies to how the Gospel helps to overcome narrowness, conflict, racism, tribalism, and to promote everywhere, and among all, reconciliation, fraternity, and sharing.

Mission inspires a Spirituality of constant exodus,

pilgrimage, and exile 6. The Church’s mission is enlivened by a Spirituality of constant exodus. We are challenged “to go forth from our own comfort zone in order to reach all the peripheries in need of the light of the Gospel” (Evangelii Gaudium, 20).

The Church’s mission impels us to undertake a constant pilgrimage across the various deserts of life, through the different experiences of hunger and thirst for truth and justice. The Church’s mission inspires a sense of constant exile, to make us aware, in our thirst for the infinite, that we are exiles journeying towards our final home, poised between the “already” and “not yet” of the Kingdom of Heaven.

7. Mission reminds the Church that she is not an end unto herself, but a humble instrument and mediation of the Kingdom. A self-referential Church, one content with earthly success, is not the Church of Christ, His crucified and glorious Body.

That is why we should prefer “a Church which is bruised, hurting and dirty because it has been out on the streets, rather than a Church which is unhealthy from being confined and from clinging to its own security” (ibid., 49).

Young people, the hope of mission 8. Young people are the hope of mission. The person of Jesus Christ and the Good News He proclaimed continue to attract many young people. They seek ways to put themselves with courage and enthusiasm at the service of humanity. “There are many young people who offer their solidarity in the face of the evils of the world and engage in various forms of militancy and volunteering. How beautiful it is to see that young people are ‘street preachers,’ joyfully bringing Jesus to every street, every town square and every corner of the earth!” (ibid., 106). The next Ordinary General Assembly

of the Synod of Bishops, to be held in 2018 on the theme “Young People, the Faith and Vocational Discernment,” represents a providential opportunity to involve young people in the shared missionary responsibility that needs their rich imagination and creativity.

The service of the Pontifical Mission Societies 9. The Pontifical Mission Societies are a precious means of awakening in every Christian community a desire to reach beyond its own confines and security in order to proclaim the Gospel to all.

In them, thanks to a profound missionary Spirituality, nurtured daily, and a constant commitment to raising missionary awareness and enthusiasm, young people, adults, families, priests, bishops and men and women religious work to develop a missionary heart in everyone. World Mission Day, promoted by the Society of the Propagation of the Faith, is a good opportunity for enabling the missionary heart of Christian communities to join in prayer, testimony of life and communion of goods, in responding to the vast and pressing needs of evangelization.

Carrying out our mission with Mary, Mother of Evangelization 10. Dear brothers and sisters, in carrying out our mission, let us draw inspiration from Mary, Mother of Evangelization. Moved by the Spirit, she welcomed the Word of life in the depths of her humble faith. May the Virgin Mother help us to say our own “yes,” conscious of the urgent need to make the Good News of Jesus resound in our time. May she obtain for us renewed zeal in bringing to everyone the Good News of the life that is victorious over death. May she intercede for us so that we can acquire the holy audacity needed to discover new ways to bring the gift of Salvation to every man and woman.

15 October 2017 — Homeport: Falmouth Harbor — Laity Sunday (Methodist observance) ver wonder, dear readers, what’s actually said to priests as they stand at the door shaking hands after Mass? Most people wouldn’t give it a second thought. Even so, you may be surprised.

Of course, there’s the usual exchange of pleasantries.

“Have a nice day.” “Enjoy your week.” “Glad to see you.” “How are you doing?”

“Good bye, now.”

Every once in a while, though, someone will say something that catches you completely off guard. You have no idea how to respond, especially when there’s a queue of people waiting to shake your hand. Here are some classic words of indiscretion heard at church doors around the diocese.

“Father, you have a great tan! Been on another vacation?”

This is a compliment with a barb in it. Everyone deserves some free time. A vacation benefits more than the priest. It also benefits the congregation and parish staff, if you know what I mean.

“Father, we sure had a crowd at Mass today. The collection basket is overflowing. What are you going to do with all your money?”

Maybe pay some of the parish’s overdue bills? None of the money in the collection basket belongs to the priest. I know priests who refuse to even touch the collection basket under any circumstances.

“Father, you’ve gained (or lost) a lot of weight.”

Although this may very well be a true expression of concern, it’s usually not the subject of a public conversation one would have with an acquaintance.

E

You don’t say

“Father, the church was Missal. An individual priest way too hot today.” celebrant is not allowed to Never respond, “You add or detract anything from think you’re warm, lady, try the Mass ritual. Still, each wearing this many layers of priest does have his own vestments under those bright style of celebrating and there spotlights.” No, no. Anyway, are lots of Mass options from you can bet the next person will likely ask, “Why is the The Ship’s Log church so cold?” To Reflections of a the former question, Parish Priest “Wear a sweater” is

By Father Tim not a good answer.

Goldrick “Oh, Father, I see the parish bought you some expensive new vestments. which to choose. In this case, How nice.” It does little however, presume a comgood to point out that they pliment. A good response happen to be your own vest- would be a simple thank you. ments and that they’re more “I’m glad you didn’t give than 40 years old. Just smile your usual long sermon and say “I’m glad you like today, Father. Now I can get them.” home to watch the begin“Got to go back to work ning of the Patriots game.” tomorrow, Father. Ugh. I Not many priests I know wish I worked one day a purposely time their homilies week like you. Ha. Ha. Ha.” based on the start of teleFake a chuckle and reach vised sports events. Just reout to shake the hand of the spond, “I’m glad that worked next person. out for you. Enjoy the game.

“Father, do you realize Go Pats!” that at the 6 a.m. Mass, “Say a prayer that the you omitted washing your Yankees lose to the Red Sox hands during the lavabo?” this afternoon.”

I did? Well, guess I needed Nice try, but I suspect it more coffee. would be unethical — maybe “Father, you say Mass even bordering on a malefidifferently from other cent voodoo hex. Say nothpriests.” ing. Just give the old thumbs Is that good or bad? The up. rubrics to be followed by a “I need to talk to somepriest are standardized in the one right this very minute.

Can you meet with me?”

The answer is probably “No, I’m obviously not free at the moment,” but don’t say it.

Instead, make arrangements to meet at a mutually convenient time and place.

“Father, you got a haircut. It’s too short. You looked much younger before.”

OK then. When a barber asks how I’d like my hair cut, I say, “Let it be a challenge for you.”

Sometimes it works; sometimes it doesn’t.

“Father, you look so young I mistook you for the altar server.”

This comment was once frequently heard in church narthexes, but, now, not so much. It’s no wonder why.

“People say you’re planning to retire soon.”

Ah, yes, the old gossip network. Here’s the scoop.

There are currently seven

pastors already eligible to retire (I’m one). There are 19 more pastors eligible to retire within the next five years and an additional 15 pastors eligible to retire in the next 10 years. That’s half of our diocesan priesthood. Expect even more retirement talk in the decade ahead. It would be impolite to respond, “My personal business, sir, is no business of yours.”

When you’re standing at the door of the church after Mass, you really have to let some comments slide. Just grin and bear it.

These days, the slogan, “If you see something, say something” is a helpful reminder to be alert to your surroundings, but it’s not always appropriate at the church door.

Sometimes it’s better if you don’t say.

Know what I’m saying?

Anchor columnist Father Tim Goldrick is pastor of St. Patrick’s Parish in Falmouth.

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Diocesan Superintendent Steve Perla advocates for Catholic school students entitlement to IDEA rights

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Diocesan Superintendent Steve Perla, a strong advocate for Catholic school special education students, was recently invited to participate in the United States Department of Education’s Annual National Private School Conference in Washington, D.C. As a member of the conference’s panel on Empowering Private School Officials to Participate in Timely and Meaningful IDEA Consultation, Perla spoke about the legal rights that private school students have under the federal law Individual Disability With Education Act (IDEA), and the challenges that private school leaders and families confront attempting to access special education services for private school children.

The panel especially focused on

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IDEA’s consultation requirements.

Under the federal law, public school officials are required to consult with private school leaders about child find screenings, number of private school students who need special education services, the amount of federal funds to be allocated to serve private school special education students, and what special education services private school officials would like to be provided with the IDEA funds.

Since IDEA’s passage in 2004, private school officials have been tirelessly working to have the federal law appropriately implemented.

There is still much more work to be done before we see the true intent of the law fully implemented, according to Perla. In Massachusetts,

private school leaders are fully committed to securing special education services that private school students

are legally entitled to and their parents have paid for these services via their taxes, concluded Perla.

From left: Maggie Hubbard, director for Special Education, Archdiocese of Washington D.C.; Ruth Ryder, U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs Monitoring and State Improvement Planning; Steve Perla, superintendent of schools, Diocese of Fall River; Pamela Allen, U. S. Department of Education’s Office of Non-Public Education; and Dwight Thomas, U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs Monitoring and State Improvement Planning.

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Thousands of students attend Fatima celebration continued from page two

people doing good things for others.”

Throughout the planning process students in all the diocesan Catholic schools were given lessons about

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the Fatima visits and their significance.

“This was Our Lady’s wish that we gather all her children for Mass today,” added Drummey. “Within

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three months, the committee pulled this off. It was a great committee and this was such a beautiful day.”

Kearns told The Anchor, “Our Lady of Fatima ap-

peared to three children, and today she was spreading the message to a new generation. The Mass with the bishop is a blessing that many of these students will remember for a long time.”

“Seeing the school children from around the

diocese gather together for this historical event was a living witness that our faith is alive,” Mahoney told The Anchor. “We need to have visible encounters of our faith that the students can experience so they can sense that their faith has a long history, one that has great meaning in our lives and in the world. When I looked at the crowd and saw the students waving their handkerchiefs as the statue of Our Lady of Fatima was passing by it just brought tears to my eyes.”

“The day was perfect,” said Desrosiers. “The weather could not have been better. It began before sunrise with the placement of 400 white roses at the foot of the Our Lady of Fatima statue located on the site. My life was changed forever.

“The Mass was breathtaking on the football field.

Bishop da Cunha gave a powerful homily of hope and courage. What great dignity and respect the students showed throughout the entire morning. It was such a tribute to our diocese and a special gift to Our Lady, Our Mother.

“Our diocese was consecrated by Bishop da Cunha to Mary our Mother that day. What a blessed and joyous occasion. May we all continue to feel the joy, peace and unity that filled our hearts. Our Lady promises us peace, if we pray the Rosary, offer little sacrifices and show kindness to others. Her gift to all of us that day was peace, the peace that only her Son Jesus can give to our families and to our world. Pray, pray, pray that we can continue to spread her message of love and peace.”

The Mass was streamed live on the Cougars Sports Network, and can now be seen on a link on the diocesan website at fallriverdiocese.org.

Getting to know our diocesan Catholic schools This is the final installment in a series of articles about the Catholic schools that make up the Diocese of Fall River. This edition focuses on schools in the Taunton and Attleboro deaneries.

Coyle and Cassidy High School and Middle School Personalized learning, strengthening student support services and fostering a spirit of service is the focus of the 2017-18 school year at Coyle and

Cassidy High School and Middle School. Personalized learning for grades six-12 is at the core of the academic program and reflected in two major school

initiatives. Through the generosity of the Carney Family Foundation, Coyle and Cassidy is one of seven diocesan schools particiContinued on page 18

St. Mary-Sacred Heart School, North Attleboro

Bishop Feehan High School — Proudly honoring our Mercy heritage With the opening of another school year, Bishop Feehan proudly welcomes 293 more freshmen — our 56th class — into a culture steeped in the traditions of the Sisters of Mercy and their foundress, Catherine McAuley.

While Feehan was founded by the Sisters in

1961, our school no longer has any Sisters actively on campus day-to-day.

Because of that — and because we know that our Mercy heritage is core to all that we do — Feehan is re-doubling efforts to ensure that all Feehan students experience the Mercy way throughout their time

in our school.

This year, Feehan’s theology department co-chairmen, Jim Fasy and Tim Reid, have spearheaded a curriculum revamp that includes a first semester introduction to the tenets of the Sisters’ heritage and a four-year emphasis on conContinued on page 20

St. Mary-Sacred Heart School continues a tradition of excellence in Catholic education that began in September of 1923 when five Holy Union Sisters first arrived in North Attleboro and welcomed the first students to “Ecole Sacre Coeur.” One year later, seven Sisters of Mercy began their teaching ministry at the newly-built St. Mary School, a few blocks down the street. Both schools thrived into the late 1960s.

Faced with dwindling enrollment, fewer Sisters teaching, and rising tuition costs, the future of Catholic education looked bleak. In 1972, led by the vision, courage, and determination of a dedicated group of parents, religious and clergy, a new reality was born with the creation of St. Mary-Sacred Heart School.

With an enrollment of 275 students in grades Pre-K to eight, SMSH continues to serve the children and youth of the three Catholic parishes of North Attleboro, as well as students from more than 13 surrounding cities and towns.

This year saw the introduction of our new “Little Saints Pre-K” program serving four-

year-old students with an academic curriculum. Even in pre-K, our students are introduced to technology with teachers and students using computers and tablets. Art, music, and physical education are also part of the classroom program. One of our seventhgrade students, bilingual in Spanish and English, is using his gifts to introduce his native language to these newest members of the SMSH family.

Following the curriculum guidelines of the Diocese of Fall River, St. Mary-Sacred Heart offers a rigorous academic program in the usual classroom subjects and also includes creative arts, music, computer, Spanish, and physical education/health. As they begin their middle school experience, our sixth-grade students are participating in a weekly class which teaches leadership skills, character building, communication, and decision making.

Over the past few years, SMSH has seen an increase in applications for our middle school program. Currently there are double homerooms Turn to page 23

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Getting to know our diocesan Catholic schools St. Mary’s Catholic School, Mansfield

One of the most meaningful aspects of being a part of St. Mary’s Catholic School is the sense of community.

Parents have remarked that “We love the Spiritual and educational experience within the St. Mary’s family,” and “I believe in faith-based learning and here at SMCS it is a total education of the whole with a true sense of family and community.” This year, we

have been not only embracing the strength of our community, but expanding our understanding of community together as teachers, staff, administration, parents, parishioners, and most importantly, students.

The St. Mary’s Class of 2018 takes time throughout the year to serve at the Mansfield Food Pantry called Our Daily Bread, organiz-

ing donations and sorting food so that volunteers can stock shelves and prepare for visitors each weekend. Twice per month, groups of students from grade eight visit the food pantry to aid the staff in its commitment to taking care of Mansfield’s most vulnerable citizens, thousands of whom receive assistance from the food pantry each year.

The experience last year at the food pantry opened the students’ eyes to the needs of society.

Rachel, the president of the Class of 2017, stated, “It gave me a perspective of all the issues in my community. It allowed me to feel accomplished and grow in my faith.” Angelia, another alumni, added, “It felt good to give back to my community.” Many other students expressed gratitude for this humbling experience. They Turn to page 19

St. John the Evangelist School, Attleboro St. John the Evangelist School is a Catholic community that welcomes families of students from Pre-K to grade eight, and has been serving the greater Attleboro area since 1954. As a Catholic school, our main goal is to educate and prepare children to assume their roles in Church and society through a safe and disciplined environment. We are grateful every day for the teachers, staff, board members, parents and volunteers who make our school so successful. We hope you and your child have the opportunity to visit our school and meet our staff. We are proud of our continued improvements to our facility and our quest to have the latest technology for our teachers and students. St. John’s School is a safe and special place for children to grow.

The mission of St. John 16

the Evangelist School is to live out the teachings of the Catholic Church by proclaiming the Gospel message to love God and neighbor.

Our parish school aspires to develop and prepare the whole child — Spiritually, academically, technologically, creatively, and socially — for a preferred future.

St. John’s School is ac-

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credited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

St. John’s is proud that a new addition was built in 2012 which expands our learning space and includes a dedicated music room and media center.

In 2008-2015, according to America Magazine, 1,395 Catholic schools closed or Turn to page 19

Our Lady of Lourdes School: A little school with a big heart Tucked away in the Weir neighborhood of Taunton, Our Lady of Lourdes School has been educating children in grades preschool through fifth since 1963. Founded and served by the Sisters of Mercy, Our Lady of Lourdes School remains steadfast and true to its mission: “Our Lady of Lourdes School answers Jesus’ call to

love and serve others and is committed to achieving academic excellence, enriched with Catholic values.” Over the past 50-plus years, the school has managed to retain the charism of the Sisters of Mercy, “to incarnate the Mercy of God the Father and to perform the various Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy.”

Turn to page 18

St. Mary’s School: Celebrating 109 years of Catholic education St. Mary’s Primary School has a long history in the city of Taunton.

Throughout the 109 years SMPS has certainly faced many changes, transitions and obstacles but the single most important thing that has not changed

or been compromised is our mission.

It is the mission of St. Mary’s School to provide a safe nurturing environment with a strong Catholic identity. Our commitment is to educate the whole Turn to page 20

I

’m sorry. Those two small words sometimes are very difficult to say and sometimes they can be difficult to hear and accept from someone who has hurt us. Sometimes those two small words just pop out of our mouths without much thought, meaning or real intent. In other words, it is an automatic response that comes out and we really don’t mean it but it gets us out of a situation for the moment. Sometimes those two small words can be the stitch that pulls together and heals a wounded relationship.

I think we all understand how important it is for all of us to be sorry when we hurt someone else and to ask for forgiveness from our parents, friends and other people in our lives when we do something to hurt them. I think we know that it is a natural part of our being to want to be in healthy and peaceful relationships and so we are inclined to seek forgiveness when we

For and About Our Church Youth I’m sorry

with a friend but many of us make a mistake that may jeopardize those relationships. ignore the damage done to In fact, some of us might even our relationship with God. A go out of our way to right the damaged relationship with wrong with a friend, or spouse God, especially if we are in mortal sin, has huge eternal with flowers, candy, or a card consequences.

— right?

God knew that we would need help and that we are not perfect so He gave us a gift by which we can right the wrongs that we

By Deacon have committed. That Frank Lucca gift is the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

It’s Confession time, literYup, I know. Confession is not something we like to talk ally. Until recently, I didn’t think about the Sacrament about or do. According to an of Reconciliation much. I did article I once read, it noted the minimum required, but that more than 45 percent of I never much thought about all church-going Catholics the implications of that decihave not ever, or rarely go to sion. After all, I consider myConfession! Now, factor in self a good Catholic and even those Catholics who don’t go when I went to Confession I to church and it becomes a really couldn’t come up with concern and a possible crisis. much to confess so it seemed Was your last Confession your First Confession in grade a waste of time. However, studying and reading about two?

St. John Vianney for a homily We will go out of our I was preparing recently, gave way to fix the relationship

Be Not Afraid

me a better understanding of my Catholic faith. I’ve had “the hell scared out of me.”

Literally! I have come, over the years of deacon formation, to understand that I may not have had my relationship with God, with others and with myself in the right perspective. I also learned that every time we celebrate a Sacrament we encounter Christ and receive the grace to live a Christian life so why wouldn’t I want to take advantage of this gift to strengthen my relationship with God and His Church? And so, I do something about it.

Each time I take advantage of the Sacrament it is a wonderful experience. The priest always takes the time to discuss my concerns and answer my questions as most do. I always leave with a remade soul. I may be 65 on the outside, but inside I’m just minutes old!

I have talked to many people who have been terrified to go to Confession but don’t be — just do it! Just enter, sit and explain what you are feeling to the priest. He will lead you

through it. I guarantee it won’t hurt. It will only help. Where else can you get that type of guarantee?

When relationships go out of kilter, or get distorted, or even broken, then we have the gift of the Sacrament of Reconciliation to heal that. When it is not broken, it strengthens us. I hope you will make a commitment to receive the Sacrament soon. I have committed myself to avail myself of the Sacrament on a regular basis. I invite you to join me in that commitment.

The Sacrament of Penance — remember, you’ve got nothing to lose (except the sin) and everything to gain (like peace, joy and even eternal life). Seems like a nobrainer to me.

Anchor columnist Frank Lucca is a permanent deacon in the Diocese of Fall River, a youth minister at St. Dominic’s Parish in Swansea and St. George Parish in Westport, and a campus minister at UMass Dartmouth. He has been married to Kristine, and is the father of two daughters, and has three grandsons.

DeaconFrankLucca@comcast. net.

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Coyle and Cassidy, Taunton continued from page 15

pating in a Blended Learning initiative in which data-driven personalized learning takes place with the integration of technology. Principal Kathleen St. Laurent and director of Instructional Technology Cherie Gilmore have been working toward personalized learning for the past two years. Both were selected along with administrators and educators

throughout the state to be part of the first cohort of a Leadership in Blended Learning Program sponsored by Massachusetts Computer Using Educators. They are excited to be part of the diocesan initiative which involves working with a consulting team.

Recently, they along with a teacher team from Coyle and Cassidy, participated in a readiness assessment

Our Lady of Lourdes, Taunton continued from page 16

Indeed, to this day, students from Our Lady of Lourdes School engage in various service projects to help the communities of Taunton and beyond.

Some of the projects we’ve been involved with include collecting canned goods for the homeless; donating children’s own money to other children suffering from cancer; donating to the Leukemia Society; collecting coats, blankets, hats and mittens for the poor; and more.

We are blessed to have two of the founding Religious still in our midst, Sister Margretta Sol and Sister Donald Kerr. Together they embody the Spiritual foundation of our mission. Their dedication to and support of our school is boundless.

Our students benefit from knowing and interacting with Sisters Margretta and Donald, who are exemplar role models of the Religious life.

Our Lady of Lourdes School is no stranger to academic excellence. We provide our students with a rigorous curriculum in the core academic subjects.

In an age when funding for “extra” classes such as music, art, or technology seems to be scarce, Our Lady of Lourdes School is 18

blessed to have dedicated teachers in these subject areas, as well as for physical education. Our teachers are devoted to their craft and always willing to go above and beyond for their students. We make every effort to personalize instruction for every learner because we realize that every student learns in their own way and time.

Teachers work in small groups and individually with students to ensure that every student is learning and progressing.

At Our Lady of Lourdes School, we work hard, but we also play. We have many after-school programs to enrich students’ lives. robotics club, track and field, cooking club, arts and crafts club, musical instrument lessons, and knitting club are a few of the enrichment classes that we offer throughout the school year.

During the summer months, we have a twoweek day camp for students of all ages. Last summer, we hosted a STEM-themed camp. Students enjoyed doing lots of hands-on activities like making ice cream and slime, (although not simultaneously).

Earlier this month, we dedicated our new play-

The Anchor - October 20, 2017

with this initiative.”

Meeting the needs of students with specialized which involved educalearning needs is another tional training along with important school-wide a site visit to the school. initiative. We are pleased According to St. Laurent, to announce the appoint“Blended and personalized ment of Nichole Rich ’93, learning allows teachers Ph.D. to the position of to assess student progress director of Student Supbased on immediate and port Services. Dr. Rich has ongoing data. In this way, an extensive background in student mastery can be education and has served measured and students can as a teacher, administrator move forward at their own and professor of graduate pace. We are very excited courses in special educaabout moving forward tion. In her new role, Dr. Rich will be directing and coordinating our new Student Support Services ground equipment with a Program designed to assist ribbon-cutting ceremony students with specialand blessing from our pasized education needs and tor, Father Tom Costa. provide academic support The equipment comes to all students in order to complete with a pirate ship, help them achieve their which we have affectionfullest potential. We are ately dubbed, “Noah’s Ark!” most grateful to Kerry PerThe Holy Spirit is alive oni ’90 and the Catholic and well at Our Lady of Specialized Education for Lourdes School. Love and All Learners Foundation kindness abide in our halls. for their financial support We like to call ourselves of this program. the “little school with a big Keeping with the heart.” school’s motto of “Enter All are welcome here. We to Learn, Leave to Serve,” embrace diversity knowCoyle and Cassidy stuing that we are all God’s dents continue to keep children. In the tradition service at the forefront. of the Sisters of Mercy, This summer 10 students we educate children from and two adults from Coyle near and far. Generations and Cassidy High School of families still send their had a heart-warming students to us. We welcome experience serving others students from Taunton and with the Romero Center surrounding towns, as well (http://romero-center.org/) as from other states. This in Camden, N.J. Their eyes year alone, we have students and hearts were open to who came to us from Con- the many injustices that necticut, California, and exist in our world today Maryland. as they spent time serving We are always acceptpeople in need at a soup ing new students in our kitchen, homeless shelter, preschool through fifth rehabilitation center, food grade. If you, or someone pantry, and children’s cenyou know is looking for ter during the week in one a school with a strong of the poorest cities in the Spiritual component and United States of America. academic excellence, please This experience transcome by to see us. We formed our students in so know you will fall in love many ways. They will share with our little school with a their experiences with our big heart! school during a Human

Awareness Day on March 15, 2018. As Blessed Oscar Romero reminded us, “Aspire not to have more, but to be more.”

Our school plans to offer another summer mission trip this year assisting those impacted by recent hurricanes. Service is part of the everyday life of the CC student.

In addition to our school-based food pantry and senior community service agency placements, our entire junior class will participate in a retreat on October 26, where an important part of the day will include serving our neighbors in need. Students along with chaperones will be broken into small groups and serve at a variety of agencies where they will help children with physical, mental and learning disabilities; assist and spend time with the elderly; deliver furniture to people in need; and assist with meal planning at a local soup kitchen. The purpose of the retreat with prayer, personal witnesses and shared reflections is to expose our students to a variety of agencies where they can learn, grow and love and make a powerful difference in their community.

The desire to serve continues long after our students graduate. Many of our cooperating agencies are staffed by our own graduates. In addition, more than 200 alumni have volunteered to serve in a newly-created Alumni RelationsMentoring program. At CC, our students truly do “Enter to Learn and Leave to Serve.”

Coyle and Cassidy High School and Middle School is accepting applications for grades six-12. Join us at our upcoming open house on Sunday, October 22 from noon to 2:30 p.m.

St. John the Evangelist continued from page 16

consolidated, nationally. We are proud to have constructed and paid for a new wing to our school during a time of influx for Catholic schools.

Affordability Your child’s tuition is an investment which pays a lifelong dividend. St. John’s School represents affordable excellence. Tuition is supplemented by the parish, so the Catholic community shares the cost of education.

About our community The advantage of a Catholic school education is reflected in the religious atmosphere of the educational program and the lives of the faculty and students. The students are challenged to improve the world by sharing Gospel val-

St. Mary’s, Mansfield continued from page 16

relished the chance to give back to the town that gave them so much. One parent said, “There are tremendous problems facing our world and it is important that young adults know they are capable of making things better.” The food pantry provides that opportunity.

Our Daily Bread has been an essential part of Mansfield for 19 years. It provides the town’s citizens with the opportunity to nourish themselves and their children at no cost and eases the burden of food insecurity for hundreds of families. The pantry’s managers and volunteers work tirelessly to help their community. The students at St. Mary’s Catholic School are glad to continue this tradition this year and beyond.

At St. Mary’s, we aim to help our students become (in the words of our mission statement) “informed, responsible, and caring citizens.” Our student council embraces this aspect of our mission statement and, as the elected representatives of the entire student body, organizes charitable fund raisers, social

ues and living Christ’s message of Salvation. They grow to understand the roots of their faith and their responsibilities as Christians.

— Our students explore their faith through classes and activities in Scripture, Sacraments, Church and morality; — Faculty and staff are role models who share their faith, their talents and their time; — While not all students who attend St. John’s are Catholic, all share experiences of our faith and values; — St. John’s School encourages each student to accept the challenges of being a Christian in tomorrow’s world.

Christ-centered learning — Students participate in Liturgical celebrations includ-

ing daily prayer, weekly Mass, Stations of the Cross and other prayer services; — We begin and end each class and day with prayer and say grace before meals; — Reconciliation is offered two times per year or whenever requested; — The pastor and parochial vicar are on the campus regularly and teach classes; — We conduct periodic food drives and the fifth grade’s service project is to work with the SVDP food pantry; — The proceeds of the annual Talent Show are donated to a charity; — Students visit a nursing home each year and give gifts for Christmas;

events, and awareness campaigns throughout the year.

These students model good citizenship, responsibility, and collaborative problemsolving to address the needs of members of the school, the parish, and the surrounding community.

The School Parent Association, of which all parents are automatically members, spends time each year responding to the ideas and suggestions of parents to make our school the best that it can be. Not only does SPA work generously to raise funds to support the school’s mission, they also find ways to connect our school more deeply to St. Mary’s Parish.

This year, SPA will be encouraging all school families to participate in the holiday giving tree led by the parish as well as offering the students ways to support ongoing charitable works of the parish.

Our students from preschool to grade eight will be able to help in a variety of ways to support our thriving parish, without which the school could not exist.

Our mission states that:

“We are committed to giving children the opportunity to develop the skills needed to attain their full potential as individuals,” and we would not be able to fulfill this mission if we did not embrace the challenges and needs of those around us and feel compelled to do something about it. Whether it is an experience at the local food pantry, partnering with parish holiday giving efforts, or helping raise funds to aid recent hurricane relief efforts, our students know how important community is, not only in our school, our parish, and in our town, but around our world.

If you or someone you know is interested in a Catholic education for your child, we welcome you to come visit St. Mary’s. A fall open house is being held on Sunday, November 19 from 10-11:30 a.m.

Please join us to meet teachers and staff, take a personal tour of the school led by our student ambassadors, and see how you could become a new member of the St. Mary’s community!

— Children are taught to respect and care for each other as demonstrated by the service program for grades seven and eight, whereby students give back to SJE, and our Buddy Program, which provides interactive activities between the classes.

Educational assets Our educational assets include a chapel, resource rooms, computer classes for grades two through eight, SmartBoards in all classrooms, iPad technology, comprehensive Wi-Fi, and a 3-D printer.

Student life St. John’s School is committed to the development of the whole student.

Extra-curricular activities are regarded as an important part of the total learning experience. A variety of choices are offered to reflect the uniqueness of each student, to generate a healthy sense of competition, to create a spirit of cooperation and to foster leadership and creativity. The emphasis is on participation by all students.

— The after-school program is available for students in grades Pre-K through eight from 2-5:30 p.m daily; — The Enrichment Program is available after school for students in grades Keight. We offer three, eightweek sessions (fall, winter, spring) designed to enhance our students’ classroom learning with a schedule that combines our most popular classes with a changing rotation of educational, timely, and unique classes. Programs range from Hip Hop dance to healthy kids cooking to Zoo Crew to baby-sitter training; — National Junior Honor Society fosters scholarship, leadership, service and responsibility for students in grades seven and eight; — The “Savings Makes Cents” banking program is in partnership with Bristol County Savings Bank for grades two through six; — Performing arts include bell choir, cadet band, cabaret

and seasonal performances; — Music program consists of theory, choral and bell choir; — Annual cabaret is open to students and parents; — Students perform at various Liturgies, functions and community activities; — Athletics include cross country (grades four-eight), basketball (grades three-eight), volleyball (grades six-eight), spring track (grades five-eight) and golf club (grades two-eight); In partnership with Bishop Feehan High School: — The community service program assists in the lower grades with learning concepts; — The explorations program enables students in grades five and six to be introduced to French on a biweekly basis; — Students are kept abreast of current events with special programs and speakers.

Academic highlights A Catholic education is a challenging education. A safe environment, high standards, strong motivation, effective discipline and an atmosphere of caring combine to foster excellence and a high quality of student performance.

Catholic schools engage in an ongoing process of evaluation, certification and accreditation of teachers and programs. Their accountability guarantees the maintenance of Catholic school’s traditionally high standards.

St. John’s School students score significantly above the national averages on standardized testing.

We offer a curriculumbased Pre-K program. Options are half-day (morning only) or full-day sessions.

Children must be four years old before September 1. We also have a full day kindergarten program. There are two kindergarten classes, each, one teacher and one aide.

In addition, we offer a weekly activity period for students in the middle school to introduce them to new and interesting projects (e.g. robotics, cooking and arts and crafts, etc.)

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St. Mary’s, Taunton continued from page 16

child through a process that encourages character development, Spiritual growth, service and academic excellence. Today, SMPS offers full- and part-time separate Pre-Kindergarten early childhood programs for three-year-old and fouryear-old children as well as full day kindergarten through grade five.

SMPS provides a safe and caring learning environment where children develop academically and more importantly where they learn to become faithbased citizens and life-long learners. Our school offers individual attention within its small classroom size; exceptional faculty who help students reach their highest potential as well as before school and after school extended care.

At SMPS, our children begin everyday with prayer in the auditorium where the entire school thanks God for their blessings and pray for those who are in

need of our prayers.

The school is proud to provide high quality academic educational programs and a balanced curriculum. The students have five specials that include art, music, drama, computer, library science and physical education, as well as enrichment programs in Spanish, Portuguese, coding and STEM robotics. SMPS is committed to technology to enhance education in order to prepare our students for the technological advances in the world today.

It is the goal of SMPS to excel in academics and on standardize tests (SMPS averaged higher scores than the national average for all grade levels) and also to live the Gospel message of Jesus Christ: to love one another and to love ourselves. We seek not only to prepare children to succeed for the next level of education and beyond, but in fact to succeed in life.

their assistance in sponsoring these children. Sponsorships will help defray Community service is very important and is sup- the cost of the tuition.

There are criteria that ported by families, faculty, families will have to meet staff and students. The in order to be eligible for students engage in community outreach programs this opportunity.

Since the implementawhere they support local food pantries, animal shel- tion of ELFS, we have a ters, My Brother’s Keeper, number of children who attend St. Mary’s under homeless shelters and St. this program. The apVincent de Paul. We have preciation and gratitude just completed “Embrace they express for this opPuerto Rico” which asportunity is overwhelmsists the victims of Hurricane Maria. The children, ing. It helps affirm us as Christians, of our obligafamilies and the community have come together to tion to community and to collect needed supplies for help support and educate all God’s children. It is the victims.

Recently SMPS has im- our hope this program will plemented the Educational be fully funded through entrepreneurs and compaLegacy Foundation for Students, otherwise known nies that understand our as the ELFS program. The mission and are looking for ELFS program will help us a tax exempt charity that they find near and dear to serve families that have a their heart. strong desire to give their SMPS is accredited by children the outstanding the New England Associaeducation of SMPS, but tion of Schools and Coldo not have the financial means to afford the tuition. leges, Inc., and is a school of choice serving students SMPS is reaching out to of all religions. The stuthe community to ask for

dents who attend St. Mary’s School represent nine surrounding communities.

Michael O’Brien, the principal of SMPS truly encourages all to “come and learn what St. Mary’s Primary School has to offer and why our school is such a great choice for your child’s education.” We do offer in-house as well as diocesan financial aid.

Tara Shaffer, mother of Max said “I just wanted to let you know that Max loves Ms. Riley (first-grade teacher). I’m in education and some people don’t understand not using the traditional methods of teaching are great for today’s children, that’s how they learn. Ms. Riley doesn’t always use paper but more modern ways of educating the children.” Max says, “I love it because she makes it fun to learn and I want to learn more.”

From 1908 to 2017, St. Mary’s Primary School has been a pillar in Catholic education.

of mercy needs to be an everyday thing — not just a habit reserved for big events. Whether it’s simply holding the door open for a fellow student or faculty member, assisting a classmate who is struggling with an assignment, or keeping our campus clean, Feehan’s students take that extra step to be good community members within our campus. Students take on a deep understanding for what the Sisters of Mercy stand for: generosity, compassion for others, and community service.

Students “caught doing right” even earn a “pride pin” from Feehan vice principal for Student Life Al Svendsen. These pins are shaped

as the school’s emblem — the shamrock — which embodies the principles of Sanctity, Scholarship, and Sportsmanship.

So many of Feehan’s teachers and leaders were taught themselves by the Sisters, and administrators like Svendsen and Principal Sean Kane and chaplain Father David Costa — who didn’t attend Feehan — have developed a deep respect for culture that the Sisters imbued into our school.

The Sisters of Mercy may not be working at Feehan any longer, but their legacy remains in our halls today and in the hearts of our 11,000 graduates across our country and the world.

Bishop Feehan High School, Attleboro continued from page 15

necting our students with the charism of Catherine McAuley.

“The time is right for us to cement the teachings of the Sisters into the experience of all of our students,” points out Feehan president, Tim Sullivan ’87. “For decades our students received those lessons so well from the Sisters themselves.

We know that today it’s essential that we carry those same messages forward on behalf of all the Sisters that built Feehan and served our school so well.”

These curriculum changes dovetail with a Feehan experience that has always centered on service and mercy in so many ways.

Each year, we honor the 20

founders of our school with a Mercy Day Mass & Tea. Mercy Day — September 24 — is the anniversary of the opening of the first “House of Mercy” in 1827 in Dublin, Ireland. Catherine McAuley, founder of the Sisters of Mercy, devoted her life to the poor, sick and uneducated.

We invite the local Sisters of Mercy and our local Mercy Associates (including longtime Feehan Spanish teacher, Dr. Karen Brennan) — many of whom taught at or served Feehan over the years — to attend Mass on Mercy Day. The Sisters are honored at Mass and then are invited to a celebratory luncheon put on by our National Honor Society.

The Anchor - October 20, 2017

Bishop Feehan also aims to foster that mercy charism in our actions. One great example of this effort comes each December when Bishop Feehan hosts its annual Santa Shop. Started in the 1990s, the school’s campus ministry office partners with local St. Vincent de Paul Societies to collect and wrap approximately 4,000 toys and children’s gifts. Local families in need are invited to campus, where Bishop Feehan students help parents select Christmas presents for their children.

This tradition fosters all of Feehan’s core values and promotes one of the founding characteristics of the Sisters of Mercy: hospitality.

Of course, a culture

FAIRHAVEN — Father Thomas McElroy, SS.CC., an ordained member of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and MaryUnited States Province, passed away on October 6 at his home at Damien Residence, in Fairhaven.

Father McElroy, who had valiantly battled cancer for the past four years, was born to Thomas and Margaret (O’Loughlin) McElroy, on Feb. 12, 1940, in Providence, R.I. In addition to his SS.CC. family, he is survived by his sister, Maureen Habershaw and her husband Joe, and his twin brother Robert McElroy and his wife Ellen, as well as many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. He was pre-deceased by his two brothers, William McElroy and Paul McElroy.

Father McElroy, who recently celebrated his 50th anniversary of ordination, had been a member of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts for more than 57 years, having entered the novitiate in Fairhaven in 1960 at the age of 20. He professed his first vows on Sept. 14, 1960, in Fairhaven, and was ordained to the priesthood, on June 7, 1967, at Queen of Peace Seminary, in Jaffrey, N.H. During his more than 50 years as a priest, Father McElroy served his community in a wide range of ministries. After beginning his career in an inner-city parish, in Rochester, N.Y., in 1967, he was assigned to Queen of Peace Church, in Harlingen, Texas, in 1970. A mission parish founded by his community in the Diocese of Brownsville, Texas, he served the people along the Mexican/American border there for five years.

From 1975 to 1983, Father McElroy was assigned to the Formation Team at the Sacred Hearts House of

Father Thomas McElroy, SS.CC.

Theology, in Washington, D.C. During his ministry there, he did extensive work with military families in the D.C./Virginia area where he formed life-long friendships, continuing to give a retreat to a group there every year for more than 35 consecutive years.

In 1983, he became pastor

at Our Lady of the Assumption in New Bedford. He later served as pastor at St. Francis Xavier, in Acushnet, and St. Joseph in Fairhaven.

A respected retreat master, in 1987 he was twice appointed director of the Sacred Hearts Retreat Center in Wareham.

During the 10 years he spent there, he also continued to

In Your Prayers Please Please pray pray for for these these priests priests during during the the coming coming weeks weeks

Oct. 21 Rt. Rev. Msgr. Edward J. Carr, P.R., Pastor, Sacred Heart, Fall River; Chancellor 1907-21, 1937, Rev. Francis E. Gagne, Pastor, St. Stephen, Attleboro, 1942, Rev. Walter J. Buckley, Retired Pastor, St. Kilian, New Bedford, 1979, Oct. 22 Rev. John E. Connors, Pastor, St. Peter, Dighton, 1940, Rev. Jerome F. O’Donnell, OFM, Our Lady’s Chapel, New Bedford, 1983 Oct. 23 Chor Bishop Joseph Eid, Pastor, St. Anthony of the Desert, Fall River, 1970 Oct. 24 Rev. Marc Maurice Dagenais, O.P., Retired Assistant, St. Anne, Fall River, 1982 Most Rev. Joseph W. Regan, M.M, Retired Prelate of Tagum, Phillipines, 1994

travel in his preaching ministry spreading the Word of God locally, nationally and internationally.

In 1991, seeing a great need in Wareham and the surrounding communities, he and Father Gabriel Healy, SS.CC., founded the Family Pantry-Damien’s Place as an outreach of the Retreat Center. Today, more than 25 years later, Damien’s Pantry feeds more than 2,500 people each month. Father McElroy remained active in the pantry until only several weeks ago when he passed the responsibility on to one of his SS.CC. brothers.

When illness finally forced him to step down as pastor

of St. Joseph’s in 2014 that did not stop Father McElroy from continuing to find a way to stay involved with the poor and marginalized, part of the congregation’s mission in which he so strongly believed.

He began a Prison Ministry at the Dartmouth House of Corrections, going there every week to offer Mass and “walk a Spiritual journey” with the men and women incarcerated there.

A funeral Mass was celebrated for Father McElroy at St. Joseph’s Church in Fairhaven October 14, followed by burial in the Sacred Hearts Community Cemetery. Donations may be made to the Sacred Hearts Community at Damien Residence in Fairhaven.

Fairhaven Funeral Home (www.hathawayfunerals.com) was in charge of the arrangements.

Oct. 25 Rev. Reginald Chene, O.P., Dominican Priory, Fall River, 1935 Rev. Raymond B. Bourgoin, Pastor, St. Paul, Taunton, 1950 Rev. James W. Connerton, CSC, Founder, Stonehill College, North Easton, 1988 Rev. Msgr. John J. Steakem, Pastor, St. Thomas More, Somerset, 1999 Oct. 27 Rev. Francisco L. Jorge, Assistant, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, New Bedford, 1918 Rev. Edmond L. Dickinson, Assistant, St. Mathieu, Fall River, 1967 Rev. Joseph F. O’Donnell, Retired Pastor, Immaculate Conception, North Easton, 1990 Oct. 28 Rev. Alfred E. Coulombe, Pastor, St. George, Westport, 1923 Rev. Stanislaus Kozikowski, OFM Conv., Pastor, St. Hedwig, New Bedford, 1956 Oct. 30 Msgr. Robert L. Stanton, Retired Pastor, St. Paul, Taunton, 1992 Rev. Denis Sughrue, CSC, Director of Postulancy, Holy Cross Novitiate, North Dartmouth, 2002 Nov. 1 Rev. William H. McNamara, Retired Pastor, St. Mary, Mansfield, 1924 Rev. Louis N. Blanchet, Assistant, St. Jean Baptiste, Fall River, 1927 Rt. Rev. Msgr. John F. Ferraz, Pastor, St. Michael, Fall River, 1944 Rt. Rev. Msgr. George F. Cain, Pastor, St. Mathieu, Fall River, 1953 Rev. William E. Farland, Pastor, St. Joseph, Taunton, 1987 Rev. William F. Gartland, C.S.C. Stonehill College, North Easton, 1988 Rev. John F. Sullivan, SS.CC., Retired Pastor Holy Trinity, West Harwich, 1994 Rev. Manuel T. Faria, Retired, Catholic Memorial Home, 1999 Nov. 2 A memento for the repose of the souls of our bishops, priests and permanent deacons not on this list Rev. Joseph S. Fortin, Founder, St. Jean Baptiste, Fall River, 1923 Rev. Michael V. McDonough, Chaplain, St. Mary’s Home, New Bedford, 1933 Nov. 3 Rev. Jose M. Bettencourt e Avila, Retired Pastor, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, New Bedford, 1988

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Around the Diocese The Fall River Diocesan Council of Catholic Women will host a breakfast presentation entitled “Immigration and Its Impact” on Saturday, October 21 at the Wamsutta Club, 427 County Street in New Bedford.

Speakers will include Helena Hughes, executive director of Immigration Assistance; Attorney Schuyler Pisha, Catholic Social Services; and Father Richard Wilson, rector of St. Mary’s Cathedral. Doors open at 8:15 a.m. and breakfast will be served at 9 a.m. Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased by calling 508-761-4638 (Attleboro), 508-674-7036 (Fall River), 508-743-5448 (Cape Cod), 508-824-8395 (Taunton), or 508-995-1604 (New Bedford).

Catholic Christian men from throughout the region are invited to attend the Southeastern New England Men’s Conference on October 21 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Holy Family Parish Center, 438 Middleboro Avenue in East Taunton. Inspired by “Into the Breach: An Apostolic Exhortation from Bishop Thomas J. Olmstead to the Men of the Diocese of Phoenix,” the conference will include presentations from Hugh Rossi, who worked for six years directly with St. Teresa of Calcutta in the South Bronx; Karen Varieur, director of operations at Bristol Community College; John Varieur, clinical psychologist at Fall River Family Services; and Deacon Rick Varieur, who has 40 years of clinical psychotherapist experience. The conference will conclude with Mass at 12:15 p.m. and a healing service with a first-class relic of St. Mother Teresa. For more information, contact Deacon Bob Craig at 508-824-5707 or visit www.stmarks-attleborofalls.org/mensconference-registration/#.

Diocese of Fall River TV Mass on WLNE Channel 6 October 22, 11:00 a.m.

World Mission Sunday

Celebrant is Msgr. John J. Oliveira, Diocesan Director of the Propagation of the Faith Office

October 29, 11:00 a.m.

Eucharistic Adoration in the Diocese Acushnet — Eucharistic Adoration takes place at St. Francis Xavier Parish on Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Evening prayer and Benediction is held Monday through Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.

ASSONET — Beginning September 14, St. Bernard’s Parish will have Eucharistic Adoration every Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The Blessed Sacrament will be exposed on the altar at the conclusion of 9 a.m. Mass and the church will be open all day, concluding with evening prayer and Benediction at 6:30 p.m.

ATTLEBORO — Eucharistic Adoration takes place in the Adoration Chapel at St. Vincent de Paul Parish, 71 Linden Street, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

ATTLEBORO — The National Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette holds Eucharistic Adoration in the Shrine Church every Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. through November 17.

ATTLEBORO — There is a weekly time of Eucharistic Adoration Wednesdays from 7-9 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church on North Main Street.

Brewster — Eucharistic Adoration takes place in the La Salette Chapel in the lower level of Our Lady of the Cape Church, 468 Stony Brook Road, on First Fridays beginning at noon until 7:45 a.m. First Saturday, concluding with Benediction and concluding with Mass at 8 a.m. buzzards Bay — Eucharistic Adoration takes place at St. Margaret Church, 141 Main Street, Monday through Saturday, from 6:30 to 8 a.m.; and every first Friday from noon to 8 a.m. on Saturday.

East Freetown — Eucharistic Adoration takes place at St. John Neumann Church every Monday (excluding legal holidays) 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the Our Lady, Mother of All Nations Chapel. (The base of the bell tower).

EAST TAUNTON — Eucharistic Adoration takes place in the chapel at Holy Family Parish Center, 438 Middleboro Avenue, Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. On First Fridays, Eucharistic Adoration takes place at Holy Family Church, 370 Middleboro Avenue, from 8:30 a.m. until 7:45 p.m.

FAIRHAVEN — St. Mary’s Church, Main St., has Eucharistic Adoration every Wednesday from 8:30-11:30 a.m. in the Chapel of Reconciliation, with Benediction at 11:30 a.m. Also, there is a First Friday Mass each month at 7 p.m., followed by a Holy Hour with Eucharistic Adoration. Refreshments follow.

FALL RIVER — St. Anthony of Padua Church, on the corner of Bedford and Sixteenth streets, has Eucharistic Adoration accompanied by music and prayer every first Wednesday of the month from 6-7 p.m.

FALL RIVER — St. Bernadette’s Church, 529 Eastern Ave., has continuous Eucharistic Adoration from 8 a.m. on Thursday until 8 a.m. on Saturday.

FALL RIVER — St. Anthony of the Desert Church, 300 North Eastern Avenue, has Eucharistic Adoration Mondays and Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

FALL RIVER — Holy Name Church, 709 Hanover Street, has Eucharistic Adoration Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the Our Lady of Grace Chapel.

FALL RIVER — Good Shepherd Parish has Eucharistic Adoration every Friday following the 8 a.m. Mass and concluding with 3 p.m. Benediction in the Daily Mass Chapel. A bilingual holy hour takes place from 2 to 3 p.m. Park behind the church and enter the back door of the connector between the church and the rectory.

FALL RIVER — St. Joseph’s Church has a Holy Hour every Tuesday from 6-7 p.m., with Benediction at 6:45 p.m.

FALL RIVER — St. Michael’s Church has Eucharistic Adoration every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with Benediction at 5:30 p.m.

Falmouth — St. Patrick’s Church has Eucharistic Adoration each First Friday following the 7 a.m. Mass, with Benediction at 4:30 p.m.

HYANNIS — St. Francis Xavier Parish in Hyannis, 347 South Street, Hyannis, has Eucharistic Adoration from noon to 3 p.m., daily Monday through Friday.

MANSFIELD — St. Mary’s Parish, 330 Pratt Street, has Eucharistic Adoration every First Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., with Benediction at 5:45 p.m.

MASHPEE — Christ the King Parish, Route 151 and Job’s Fishing Road has 8:30 a.m. Mass every First Friday with special intentions for Respect Life, followed by 24 hours of Eucharistic Adoration in the Chapel, concluding with Benediction Saturday morning followed immediately by an 8:30 Mass.

NEW BEDFORD — Eucharistic Adoration is held every Thursday, with Confessions, from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe at St. James Church. Please use the side entrance.

NEW BEDFORD — There is a daily holy hour from 5:15-6:15 p.m. Monday through Thursday at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 1359 Acushnet Avenue. It includes Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, Liturgy of the Hours, recitation of the Rosary, and the opportunity for Confession.

NEW BEDFORD — St. Lawrence Martyr Parish, 565 County Street, holds Eucharistic Adoration in the side chapel Fridays from 7:30-11:45 a.m. ending with a simple Benediction NORTH DARTMOUTH — Eucharistic Adoration takes place at St. Julie Billiart Church, 494 Slocum Road, every Tuesday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., ending with Benediction. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is available at this time.

NORTH DIGHTON — Eucharistic Adoration takes place every Wednesday following 8:00 a.m. Mass and concludes with Benediction at 5 p.m. Eucharistic Adoration also takes place every First Friday at St. Nicholas of Myra Church, 499 Spring Street following the 8 a.m. Mass, ending with Benediction at 6 p.m. The Rosary is recited Monday through Friday from 7:30 to 8 a.m.

NORTH EASTON — A Holy Hour for Families including Eucharistic Adoration is held every Friday from 3-4 p.m. at The Father Peyton Center, 518 Washington Street.

NORTH EASTON — Eucharistic Adoration takes place at Immaculate Conception Church Chapel on the first Wednesday of the month beginning after the 8:30 a.m. Mass, until 6:40 p.m. Those wishing to make a monthly commitment can sign up on the parish website at www.icceaston.org or call the parish office at 508-238-3232.

ORLEANS — St. Joan of Arc Parish, 61 Canal Road, has Eucharistic Adoration every First Friday starting after the 8 a.m.

Mass and ending with Benediction at 11:45 a.m. The Sacrament of the Sick is also available immediately after the 8 a.m. Mass.

SEEKONK ­— Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish has perpetual Eucharistic Adoration seven days a week, 24 hours a day in the chapel at 984 Taunton Avenue. For information call 508-336-5549.

Taunton — Eucharistic Adoration takes place every Tuesday at St. Anthony Church, 126 School Street, following the 8 a.m. Mass with prayers including the Chaplet of Divine Mercy for vocations, concluding at 6 p.m. with Chaplet of St. Anthony and Benediction. Recitation of the Rosary for peace is prayed Monday through Saturday at 7:30 a.m. prior to the 8 a.m. Mass.

Taunton — Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament takes place every First Friday at Annunciation of the Lord, 31 First Street. Exposition begins following the 8 a.m. Mass. The Blessed Sacrament will be exposed, and Adoration will continue throughout the day. Confessions are heard from 4:15 to 4:45 p.m. Rosary and Benediction begin at 5 p.m.

WAREHAM — Eucharistic Adoration at St. Patrick’s Church takes place 9 a.m. Thursday through 7 p.m. Friday. Adoration is held in our Adoration Chapel in the lower Parish Hall. ~ PERPETUAL EUCHARISTIC ADORATION ~

Celebrant is Father Riley J. Williams, Parochial Administrator at St. Francis Xavier Parish in Acushnet

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East Sandwich — The Corpus Christi Parish Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration Chapel is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 324 Quaker Meeting House Road, East Sandwich. Use the Chapel entrance on the side of the church.

NEW BEDFORD — Our Lady’s Chapel, 600 Pleasant Street, offers Eucharistic Adoration seven days a week, 24 hours a day. For information call 508-996-8274.

SEEKONK ­— Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish has perpetual Eucharistic Adoration seven days a week, 24 hours a day in the chapel at 984 Taunton Avenue. For information call 508-336-5549.

WEST HARWICH — Our Lady of Life Perpetual Adoration Chapel at Holy Trinity Parish, 246 Main Street (Rte. 28), holds perpetual Eucharistic Adoration. We are a regional chapel serving all of the surrounding parishes.

All are invited to sign up to cover open hours. For open hours, or to sign up call 508-430-4716.

St. Mary-Sacred Heart, North Attleboro continued from page 15

for grades four through eight.

The middle school follows a block schedule with teachers focusing on individual subjects and students moving between classrooms for each time period. The middle school also gathers in Sacred Heart Church each Monday morning for prayer led by one of their peers. Throughout the year, guest speakers will be meeting with the middle school as part of an ongoing “Career Day” program.

Students in grades six through eight are also invited to participate in the “Eden Project.”

Each day two SMSH students leave campus and spend part of their day with the residents of Madonna Manor, a diocesan health facility located in North Attleboro. Students help deliver mail, attend Mass, assist with crafts and activities, and visit the residents. Many friendships are forged between our young people and their elders at the manor.

Again this year, St. MarySacred Heart students will support the work of Sister Eileen Davey, a Holy Union Sister currently missioned in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Sister Eileen coordinates a nutrition center in the parish of St. Louis de Montfort. More

than 70 pre-school children receive preparation for school, much like our Head Start programs here in the States.

Education is very much valued by Haitian parents. In addition to school activities, Sister also provides a hot lunch meal, most often the only full meal these children will have each day. The SMSH com-

munity has contributed hundreds of dollars to assist Sister in providing these meals and helps pay the small salaries of local Haitian parishioners who work in the center. This past September, Sister Eileen visited the school and spoke with the students explaining how their contributions are making a difference in

the lives of so many families.

Sister’s visit always brings renewed energy to this special

project as already plans are being made for this year’s charitable efforts.

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World Mission Sunday October 22, 2017

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The Anchor - October 20, 2017