11.19.99

. FALL RIVER DIOCESAN NEWSPAPER FOR SOUTHEAST MASSACHUSETIS CAPE COD & THE ISLANDS VOL. 43, NO. 45 • Friday, November 19, 1999

FALL RIVER, MASS.

Southeastern Massachusetts' Largest Weekly • $14 Per Year

Parishes urged to promote vocations ~

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Vocations director says diocese alone can't do the job.

By JAMES N. DUNBAR

FALL RIVER - The "priest shortage" that we hear about in the news does not accurately portray the vocation outlook in recent years, says Father Craig A. Pregana, vocation director for the Diocese of Fall River.

"The reality is that while there may be a 'priest' shortage due to impending retirements, deaths, etc., the number of young men entering the seminary is on the increase," Father Pregana asserted.

The good news here is that eight men entered the seminary this year to study for the priesthood and be a priest in this diocese. What makes the news even brighter is that there are currently 21 men preparing for the priesthood and to serve in the diocese.

"In June, we expect to ordain six men as priests," Father Pregana said. "Over the past five years the diocese has ordained 21 priests." There were five ordained this year, four in 1998, three in 1997, four in 1996 and five in 1995.

That compares favorably with the national statistics that show a steady rise of about 10 percent in the number of seminarians answering the call to a vocation since 1996.

The increase, says Father Pregana, is due in part to the U.S. bishops' initiative "A Future Full of Hope" which was implemented in 1996.

He told The Anchor this week that "the task of all priests is to make our lives examples to young people so they can see our dedication and service to the people of God which are the hallmarks of our lives.

We have to remember that the most important vocation promotion is done at the parish level."

That echoes the statements of vocation directors nationwide who say that it is Tum to page 12 - Vocations

Marian Medal recipients to be honored

PROCLAIMING the Gospel, Deacon Lawrence A. St. Onge diaconates at the annual Bishop's Night celebration Mass for permanent deacons in the Fall River Diocese.

The deacon in the new millennium ~

The ordained deacon will remain a servant; but his ministry will.change considerably.

By JAMES N. DUNBAR

FALL RIVER - Tomorrow's permanent deacons will be called upon to take greater leadership roles in the parish <;:ommunity and to reach out well beyond the service at the altar, extending their ministry of charity to battle for social justice issues.

In a recent interview with Deacon Lawrence A. St. Onge, assistant director of the Permanent Diaconate program for the Diocese ofFall River for four years, he spoke about the vocation to diaconate and the deacon's key role in meeting the challenge of ensuring that all people are treated with

dignity and equality as they live their lives as good Christians and Catholics.

It means making changes, he said.

"The new 'Directory for the Formation and Life of the Deacon' released by the Vatican and being worked on by the National Council of Catholic Bishops, presents a whole new viewpoint on the formation of deacons with much more emphasis on the length of time men must prepare," said St. Onge, who serves at St. Bernard's Parish, Assonet.

"Many of the programs throughout the country are going fro~ minimal formation periods that some years ago had been at a year or two and now have academic programs of four and five years. Formation is the forming of die man spiritually and academically, and truly, you cannot separate them," he asTum to page 11 - Deacons

Sunday evening prayer service will honor 100 dedicated parishioners.

FALL RIVER - Bishop Sean P. O'Malley, OFM Cap., will award Marian Medals to 100 lay persons from all areas of the diocese during a ceremony of Solemn Evening Prayer and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament on Sunday at 3 p.m. in St. Mary's Cathedral.

The annual award recognizes members of diocesan parishes ~.ol)1inated by their pastors as outstan?J.npfq(?~yotion and service.

It was first, Pte~l\tea JIl.1968 by then Fall River B,~h'tW~.a~~Lt~~?H~~.The ~arian Medal.,~gt~d.!f'~~\ste!lWg}~}y.~~\fmdIS e,mbosse?;$jtG;,~'~,~c~l~.~~ M~g.~l})",11 one SIde and the1;'~~~l?tq~$:.\Il e,Q~tt-Ekarms on the Otb¢.r.I~~ .;:.,:.11 ~ ,));' ~":n,:,; Ne~t0tli~llbp:ch,lsjQ~lgfthe;-Mass, 10 church'(f~}~1ft:~es;willft%.:~t~a:;specialHoly Year, Ba1l:iiet.: designat~~~:;tb.e,m as places , where euchari~t!c'-la~,~~tit;ii(~i1I be regularly scheduled througnourilie lubilee Year 2000.

This follows Pope John Paul II's exhortation to "Open Wide the Doors to Christ" in anticipation of the holy year the central theme for which is reconciliation, personal renewal and renewed devotion to the Eucharist.

The 1999 Marian Medal recipients and their parishes are:

Attleboro Luisa Amaral, Holy Ghost, Attleboro; Lydia E. Bredemeier, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Seekonk; Rose Elizabeth Collette, St. Mary, Norton; Armand Frechette, St. Tum to page 13 - Medals

Vespers service planned for eve of World AIDS Day ~

November 30 event ushers in Dec. 1 observance of World AIDS Day.

By JOHN E. KEARNS, JR. ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, OFACE OF COMMUNICATIONS.

FALL RIVER - "God, come to my assistance. Lord, make haste to help me."

This call to prayer uttered amidst burning incense will begin a special Vespers service for the Vigil of World AIDS Day at 6 p.m., on Tuesday, November 30, at St. Mary

Cathedral. Bishop Sean P. O'Malley, OFM Cap., will lead the service. All are invited to attend.

Text and lyrics for the Vespers were written

by Dr. Krysten Winter-Green, director ofAIDS Ministry for the Fall River Diocese, and musician-composer Glenn Giuttari of Rehoboth composed music for the lyrics.

The evening prayer was fIrst celebrated last year to offer a unique service and reflection in commemoration of World AIDS Day. Response was overwhelmingly positive and diocesan planners of the event were encouraged to again make the Vespers the center of this

year's observance.

Sine Nomine, a regional 20-voice choir which specializes in liturgical music, will sing the choral components of the service.

The group is under the direction of Giuttari.

Vespers is part of the Church's Liturgy of the Hours, the official prayer of the Church traditionally offered at particular hours throughout the day and aimed at sanctifying the entire course of daily life.

Taken from the Latin word, vesper, which means evening, Vespers or evening prayer is celebrated near the end of the day. This service for World AIDS Day will occur on the

night before (which is the vigil), of the official World AIDS Day, following the tradition of the Church to begin preparing for important feast days on the evening before.

"Many people have told me that last year's Vespers was a beautiful service and very meaningful for the community," Dr. WinterGreen said. "So I am quite pleased to provide again with the encouragement of Bishop O'Malley, this opportunity to gather together and to place our private and communal concerns before God, as we reflect on the tragedy of HIV and AIDS in our community Tum to page 13 - Vespers

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TIIEANCHOR-Diocese ofFall River-Fri., November 19, 1999

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Gottin; and a sister, Maria Maddalena Nearly 30 members of the clergy from across New England were among the concelebrants at the funeral Mass.

Cardinal Bernard Law of Boston, spoke, paying tribute to the Capuchin priest at the end of the Mass.

Following the Mass a Cape Verdean violin band, playing mama music, which mourners said means

our local communities in Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

It was (the late) Cardinal Humberto Medeiros who asked Padre Pio to come to Massachusetts to minister to the Cape Verdeans. of the area.

'1n April of 1998, I had the honor . FALL RIVER ....:... Father Olivio to attend a Liturgy in Roxbury in Giovanni Gottin, OFM Cap., 79, betthanksgiving for the Golden Anniverter known throughout the Cape sal)' ofOrdination ofPadre Pio. At that Verdean community in the Fall River Liturgy, the outpouring of love Diocese and New England as ''Padre Pio;' was remembered by r;~--.r" IIC"=::-:"':-----l and affection for this man ofsmall thousands who gathered Nov.,!3 stature but immense faith was so .) for his funeral Mass celebrated by ~ very evident in the hundreds of Bishop Sean P. O'Malley, OFM people who came to share in this celebration. Fifty years earlier, at Cap., in St. Patrick Church in Roxbury. his ordination Mass, Padre Pio Father Gottin, the spiritual heard the words ofthe bishop who imposed hands on him: 'Let the leader of New England's immigrant· Cape Verdean community example of your life attract the for 20 years, died Nov. 7 in followers of ~hrist, so that by word and action you may build Brockton Hospital.

Based at St. Patrick's Church up the house which is God's Church.' There was no doubt Pain Roxbury and Our Lady of the ". dre Pio took those challenging Assumption Church in New Bedwords to heart. ford, as well as parishes in Scituate and Brockton, he counseled thou'''The elderly who Padre Pio sands of immigrants from the served tenderly, the youth who former Portuguese colony as they he guided so firmly, saw more than became accustomed to a new cula man; they saw a servant of God, a beloved disciple in their midst. ture. .

GOLDEN JUBILEE - Father A native ofVicenza, Italy, Fa''lam most grateful toPadrePio ther Gottin served parishes in Olivio Giovanni GoUin, OFM Cap:, for the many years that he served Fogo and Brava in Cape Verde stands in front of a collage showing the people ofNew Bedford at Our before immigrating to the United him in different scenes during his reli- L!ldy of Assumption Church. He States in 1978. gious life at an April 1998 celebration willingly and generously would Considered by many to be the marking his 50 years as a priest. come to New Bedford each week Cape Verdean leader in the United to attend to the spiritual needs of States, Father Gottin moved between "the last time" followed the casket the flock entrusted to his care. the Cape Verdean communities in from the church.

"As a fellow Capuchin friar, I Providence and, Pawtucket, R.I., anel Bishop O'Malley issued a state- greatly admired Padre Pio's self-givin the Massachusetts areas including ment on the death of Father Gottin. It ing and genuine love for those with Fall River, New Bedford, Boston anel reads: ' whom he ministered and served. He Roxbury. He forged strong relation'The Catholic community has lost was a model of priesthood and disship with other Cape Verdean leaders a true disciple in the person of Padre cipleship. May he now share in the too, and considered all Cape Verdeans Pio, who died this past week at the joy of eternal life as he hears the Lord in America his responsibility. age of 75. Padre Pio left his family speak to him the words we all one day He leaves two brothers, Father and native Italy and spent most of his will long to hear: 'Come, good and Fulgencio Gottin and Giovanni over-50 years as a priest serving the faithful servant; enter into the kingCape Verdean people, first in their dom prepared for you from the founnative land and, for over 20 years in dation of the world.''' , Daily, Readings

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Nov25

Nov 26

On 1:1-6,8-10; .

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33· Nov27

Nov 28

On7:2-14; (Ps) On 3:8287; L.k21:34-:Ii Is 63:16b17,19b;64:2b7; Ps 80:2ac, 3b,15-16,1819; 1 Cor 1:3-

9; Mk13:33-37 1111'1111111111111111111111111 THE ANCHOR (USPS-54S-mD) Periodical

Postage Paid at Fall River, Mass. Published weekly except for the first two weeks in July ani the week after Christmas at 887 Highlanl Averwe, Fall River, Mass. fm2J) by the Catholic Press of the Diocese ofFall River. Subscription price by mail. postpaid $14.00 per year.

POSTMASTERS send address changes to The AB:hor, P.O. Box 7, Fall River, MA fJ2712.

.In Your Prayers Please pray for the following priests dur(ng the coming week NECROLOGY ., November 23 1984, Msgr. Christopher L. Broderick, Pastor Emeritus. St. Pius X, South Yannouth \.. , \\

".

\ \ November24 1991, Msgr. Daniel F. Sh'alloo, Retired Pastor, Holy Name, Fall River \ . \

\

, \ N:ovember25 / ...., 1946, Rev. Philias Jalbert, Pastor, Notre Dame de Lourdes, Fall River 1971, Rev. Dennis Spykers, $S.Cc. -~ . \

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._/--:-.November

26 1945, Rev. JamesR. Bums, P.R" Pastor, Sacred Heart, Fall River ~./~-----

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, '\.... . . -/Novclnber27 1948, Rt. Rev. Patrick E. McGee, PaStor, St. Mary, North Attleboro

Nov~28

1959, Rev. Adrien A. Gauthier, Pastot, St. Roch, Fall River

PRIESTS ·November 21 November 22 November 23 November 24 November 25 November 26 November 27

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\

CURREN~~Y \ '

SERVING .

Rev. Manuel Peretra, MS Rev. Daniel ~evy, SS.CC. Rev. Msgr. Jolm, A. Perry Rev. Joh~ J. P~rry. . . ' Rev. LUCIO B. 'Phtlhpmo Rev. Charles Pd~ada, OFM Conv.

Rev. Robert J. Powell, OSB Cam.

LOVE IN ACTION - In front of the new statue of Mother Teresa of Calcutta in St. Anne's Shrine, Father Marc H. Bergeron, pastor of St. Anne Church, Fall River, accepts a check from left, Grand Knight Edmond Madore of Knights of Columbus Council 86, Fall River, as Past Grand Night Ralph Comeau looks on. The donation was to help pay for the statue.

TIIEANCHOR-Diocese ofFall River-Fri., November 19, 1999

FaJI River K of C defrays cost of statue at St. Anne's FALL RIVER - When the 180 members of Knights of Columbus Council 86 learned that a beautiful, but expensive statue of Sister Teresa ofCalcutta had been purchased

by St. Anne Parish for its Shrine, the idea was unanimous that the Knights should do something about it.

While traditionally a quiet group, they have, over the years, made a great impact on the community as they help out families with handicapped children, assisting them with equipment and medical needs.

Because they are also an active pro-life group, when they heard recently from Treasurer NormanValiquette about the costly statue, they immediately set out to payoff the debt by donations.

'The knights all agreed that the statue carries a powerful reminder to all that each life is precious to God and voted unanimously to donate $5,000 to the Shrine;' said

Grand Knight Edmond Madore. '''The statue is a symbol of hope ... that all will see God in the eyes of every child."

Recalling that Mother Teresa once said, ''Love has no meaning if it isn't shared ...Iove has to be put into action;' tl:1e group indicated that "this is our way of showing love for children, and its is our hope that the statue will remind everyone that all children need to be cradled with love; the same unconditional love that Mother Teresa gave to so many unwanted children;' Madore explained.

Father Bergeron, who had long mulled the purchase of the statue before actually doing so a few months ago, said he was thrilled to receive the donation and applauded the efforts of Council 86.

Anyone interested in obtaining information regarding the Knights can call Edmond Madore at 674-6102.

'Bread of Life' retreat路 set for Nov. 26-28 EAST FREETOWN- Dozens of young adults in their 20s and 30s will meet for a prayerful, educational and recreational weekend at the fourth, annual, "Bread ofLife" Retreat, Nov. 26 through 28 at Cathedral Camp here.

The Franciscan Friars ofthe Primitive Observance from New Bedford will again lead the youth in the retreat which includes prayer, reflection, song

and discussion.

The retreat talks, which will focus on the themes for the Jubilee Year 2000, include: '''The Eucharist: The Medicine of Immortality and the Antidote for Death;' "Becoming an Intense Pray-er;' ''A New Evangelization: Dialogue With Other Faiths;' "God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit," 'The Jubilee Year and the New Mil-

lennium," ''Community: Support for the Journey," and ''Mary, Our Mother."

There will be Mass and time for adoration before the Blessed Sacrament.

To register.or for information contact the Young Adult Ministry, P.O. Box 1167,Fall River, MA 02720 or call Bud Miller orAlexis Oliveira at (508) 675-3847.

Bishops' messages bopeful for jubilee year 'attitude adjustDlent' WASHlNGlON (CNS)-The u.s. bishops hope to bring about "a national attitude adjustment" for the new millennium, Bishop Wilton D. Gregory of Belleville, Ill., said this week as he introduced two proposed statements on the jubilee year.

Two versions of the bishops' message for the jubilee - a brief, ''popularized" message and a longer one were to be debated and voted on Wednesday during the bishops' fall general mecting in Washington.

EDICTAL CITATION DIOCESAN TRIBUNAL FALL RIVER, MASSACHUSETTS Since the actual place of residence of JOAOUIM C. SILVA is unknown.

We cite JOAOUIM e. SILVA to appear personally before the Tribunal of the oio路 cese of Fall River on Tuesday, November 30, 1999 at 10:30 a.m. at 887 Highland Avenue, Fall River, Massachusetts, to give testimony to establish: Whether the nullity of the marriage exists in the DeFreitas-Silva case?

Ordinaries of the place or other pastors having the knowledge of the residence of the above person, Joaquim e. Silva, must see to it that he is properly advised in reo gard to this edictal citation.

Paul F. Robinson, O. earm., J.e.D. Adjutant Judicial Vicar Given at the Tribunal, Fall River, Massachusetts on this the 9th day of November, 1999.

Each document must be approved by two-thirds of the active bishops present and voting.

BishopGregory, whochairs the bishops' Subcommittee on the Third Millennium, said the shorter message was intended for use as a newspaper ad directed to the entire U.S. population.

The primary message of both texts is that "because of God's love for us through the life, death and resurrection ofJesus Christ, each person has the capacity for good;' Bishop Gregory said.

But, he added, "many people don't recognize this love or allow it to permeate their actions:' In an explanatory note distributed with the proposed messages, Bishop Gregory said the subcommittee hoped that the shorter "exhortatory message will provide people with hope and be a message ofevangelization as we commemorate the jubilee year and prepare to enter into the new millennium."

One ofthe greatest needs in the third millennium is for the message ofGod's love "to ring throughout the land;' the briefer message says.

It asks Americans to ''think about what God's love means for you" and to explore new possibilities as the next millennium begins.

A belief in God's love ''is vital as violence threatens to shatter peace and the lure of instant gratification keeps people from looking beyond them-

selves;' the message says. "Such threats can blind a person to the existence of God's timeless caring and affection.

'This is a time to look at the world and decide how to better serve your neighbor;' the bishops say. "You can do it too, because, thanks to God who sent Jesus into the world 2,000 years ago, the power ofGod's love lies within you."

In the longer message, directed to Church leaders, both lay and ordained, as well as all Catholics, the bishops note how God's love responds to their deepest needs.

"Experts who collect, catalog and analyze our worries tell us that chief among them is the dread ofbeing alone, or being left alone;' the document says.

But God the Father, along with Jesus and the Holy Spirit, "are really never apart from us and our way, no matter how winding." ''Becauseoftheir presence, we need have no fear of hard times, changing times, or even the end oftime;' the bishops add. .

Noting that "only one in 50 generations" is around to celebrate a new millennium, the bishops say, "It falls to us to be the '50th generation' to celebrate so monumental a jubilee by returning God's love with all our heart, all our soul, all our mind, and all our strength; our loving will not be complete unless we love our neighbor as ourselves."

At Saint Anne's Hospital. we've always been driven to serve the community. And during our construction is no exception. In fact. we'll be doing even more driving than usual - so you won't have to. To make your visits to Saint Anne's easy and convenient, we're oll'ering free valet parking. 24 hours a day. No charge. No tipping. No hassles.

Simply drive to our emergency entrance at Middle and South l\\ain Streets. Our Valet Ambassadors - dressed in white shirts, striped ties, na\y slacks, and a Saint Anne's Hospital badge - can't be missed.

They'll greet you, give you a claim ticket, and send you on your way.

We'll take care of the rest.

Living with construction is never easy, but the exciting improvements that are in the works are well worth the temporary in!,onvenience.

In the meantime, we appreciate your patience and understanding.

For more information on our Valet Parking Service, call our "Construction Hotline" at (508) 235-5:!69. ~"

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Saint Anne's Hospital CARITAS CHRISTI HEALTH CARE SYSTEM

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lHEANCHOR- Diocese ofFall River"'::'"Fri., November 19,1999-

themoorin~

the living word I

A vocational reflection As we workand pray for an increase ofvocations to the priesthood we must acknowledge the reality' 'and vitality of the pennanent diaconate, not merely here in our diocese, but throughout the Church in Amenca.

The effort to interest young aduits in the vocation of priesthood is ongoing and ever changing. It is interesting to note that seminaries that dedicate themselves to the "older" vocation are quite full and successful. The high school and college seminary are fast becoming a distant memory. Most major seminaries are in a struggle to survive.

The social mores of our times intimidate many who. would seek the f security of cominit~ent. Many. 'finish collegeaild -graduate school and yet have to find their very being. It seems that what was once' expected a few years ago in the late teens now has moved to the late 20s. For example, the ivenig~ age of couples entering into marriage is anywhere between 26 and 32, The age in which we live seems to breed uncertainty and detemUnation of yocation; This indeed holds true for the priesthood. What.wa~ once viewed as a delayed vocation is becoming the nonn. What was onc垄 a matter of how many will be ordained to the priesthood, has now 'become who will assume this vocational challenge. What was once a given has become an uncer. tainty.

As we continue to struggle to bring new men to consider the priesthood, the pennanent diaconate is flourishing from coast to coast. It has found its special charisma in the American Church. Nowhere else in the world has this vocation found so many men responding to the call of the Holy Spirit. It seems uniquely tailored fOf this country.

Deacons know well that they are called not to replace the ministry of priests, but have found their vocation in compliment to presbyt~rial ministry. The diaconate was not a response to the shortage of priests.

It is a special vocation in its own right. . To be sure, in some areas of Church life, deacons may serve many of the same functions as a priest. But they are always aware of their role as living signs of the servanthood of Christ's Church. Perhaps the vocation to priesthood will be foulld in their own families by their ministry ofWord, charity and servi<;:e at their own kitchen tables.

These married clergy are ever evolvingjn the life of today's Church and have a responsibility to nurture vocations by their own witness of ministry. The potential of this is yet to be seen as we begin a new century.

It must be remembered that in most dioceses, diaconate programs are only 20 years old. As time matures the diaconate, few can predict where the Spirit is leading it. But one thing is for sure; it is now established as an intricate factor in diocesan life. It is difficult indeed to imagine what a local Church would be like without permanent deacons. What started as a mere ideal has indeed become a vital ministry witness in today's Church.

The future for all is often mere speculation. Yet for the diaconate, the days to come are full of brightness and hope. As training programs become more developed and demanding, deacons will be better equipped to handle the evolving demands of ministry. The emphasis on spiritual development is a constant that assures the Church that the deacon is truly a Spirit-full person. Ongoing renewal programs, days of recollection for a deacon and his wife assure that family stability is of prime consideration. To be sure, there are some uncertainties about the important role of the deacon in ministry. There are some of the faithful who are confused about the deacon identity.

But time is the great revealer. What has been achieved in a single generation is a clear indicator that future days will bring an even greater enthusiasm to the life of deacons in the Church. This assurance is indeed God's gift to us.

The Editor

路theancho~

OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE.OF FALL RIVER Published weekly by The.Catholic Press ot the Diocese ot Fall River 887 Highland Avenue P.O. BOX 7 Fall River, MA 02720 Fall River, MA 02722-0007 Telephone 508-675-7151 FAX (508) 675-7048 Send address changes to P.O. Box 7 or call tefephone number above

EDITOR GENERAL MANAGER Rev. Msgr. John F. Moore Rosemary Dussault ~

NEWS EDITOR James N. Dunbar

LlARV PRESS - FALL R!YEA

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Houston photo

MEN AND WOMEN GATHER FOR A PHOTOGRAPH FOLLOWING A BAPTISMAL SERVICE AT A RECENT EMMAUS RETREAT WEEKEND IN EAST FREETOWN.

"FINALLY, ALL OF YOU, LIVE IN HARMONY WITH ONE ANOTHER; BE SYMPATHETIC, LOVE AS BROTHERS, BE COMPASSIONATE AND HUMBLE. DO NOT REPAY EVIL WITH EVIL OR INSULT WITH INSULT, BUT WITH BLESSING, .BECAUSE TO TillS YOU WERE CALLED SO THAT YOU MAY INHERIT A BLESSING. -lPETER 3:8-9

The heart of American culture

By FATHER EUGENE HEMRICK CATHOUC NEWS SERVICE

What best defines the soul of American culture?

No doubt, answering that question would fill many books because people would take such different approaches to it.

Recently I reviewed R.W.B. and Nancy Lewis' "American Characters" (Yale University Press, 1999), and 'found myself pointed toward an. answer to that question - an answer I believe most of us could agree upon.

"American Characters" contains 300 portraits and biographies of prominent Americans featured at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington. The Lewises categorized the portraits by themes, starting with notable f!gures in .the colonial era, then moving to American literary giants, statesmen, scientists, Native American leaders, industrialists and financiers, famous entertainers and great athletes.

"American Characters" doesn't . focus solely on virtuous heroes.

People such as John Wilkes-Booth, the assassin, and gangster Al Capone also find a place in' the book.

But as I browsed through the book, which includes not only p.ortraits but also biographies, I de-

teeted a central ideal characteriz- when this was unheard of. ing a number of those featured.

In the late 1800s, the institute Surprisingly, many of these grew to 1,537 students and 197 facpeople championed civil rights ulty members, and had an endowespecially regarding slavery and ment of $2 million. racism: They personified the U.S. Also featured is George WashSupreme Court inscription, "Equal- ington Carver, who not only ity and Justice Under the Law." worked to help debt-ritlden black For example, Benjamin Franklin farmers, but as an African-Ameriwrote a powerful anti-slavery state- can scientist taught about soil conment in his autobiography, and in servation and plant protection, and 1836 John Quincy Adams, our .in developing innovative uses of sixth president, fought the infa- . such crops as the peanut and sweet mous "gag rule," which prevented -potato was a true discoverer. consideration of anti-slavery peti-' Boxing champion Joe Louis and tions. In his opposition to slavery baseball start Jackie Robinson he labeled the gag rule "the great helped to break the color barrier in and foul stain upon the North sports. And in the arts and music, American Union." blues singer Bessie Smith, trumEarly on in our history, the well- peter and singer Louis Armstrong, known statesman Daniel Webster composer and 'performer Duke opposed slavery, as did .Elizabeth Ellington, and actor and singer Paul Cady Stanton, who came from a Robeson reflected African-Ameriwealthy family, raised a large fam- can exuberance in their works. ily and felt a calling to be a naIn-portraying famous American tiona! abolitionist and to direct the figures who struggled for freedom first American Anti-Slavery Society. from slavery and for civil rights Interestingly, "American Char- . alongside notables like George .acters" features several portraits of Washington, Ralph Waldo prominent African Americans. Emerson, the Wright brothers and Among these illustrious individu- Albert Einstein, "American Charals are Booker T. Washington, 路the acters" captures the soul ofAmerica famous educator and political par excellence. spokesman who directed the The United States is a nation of Tusk~gee Institute, which educated great achievements, the greatest of black people at a time in the South which is fighting for equality.

.IHEANCHOR- Diocese ofFallRiver- Fri., November 19, 1999

What is a vocation to the Carmelite Sisters?

We, the Cannelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm, as women of the Church imipired by Mother M. Angeline Teresa, respond with faith, courage and love to the healing ministry ofChrist. Our philosophy is best expressed in the words of our Foundress: "Our apostolate is not only to staff and operate up-to-date homes for the aged, but as religious it is to bring Christ to every person under our care.

Bringing Christ means giving them His compassion, His interest, His loving care, His wannth morning, noon and night. It means inspiring the lay people who work with us, to give the same type of loving care." .

Our mission is reflected in the philosophy of care inherent in all policies and practices within the health care facilities under our supervision, thereby charging the administration, boards of directors and medical staff with promoting the Christian mission of healing and care.

CHARISM The philosophy of the Cannelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm was conceived and nurtured in the charism of their Foundress, Mother M. Angeline Teresa. With the heart ofaMother and Foundress, supported

by God's love and wisdom, she was inspired to: - identify the spiritual, personal and social needs of the elderly; - initiate programs and services for them; - clasp the hand ofan aged person and give meaning to the autumn of life; - form a religious congregation preparing the way for others who would be dedicated to the care and service of the aged.

CARMELITE COMMITMENT We, the Cannelite Sisters for the Aged and Infrrm, affrrm our philosophy of care and mission in the Church. As vowed religious, nourished and sustained by prayer, strengthened by community and committed to the legacy of our Foundress, Mother M. Angeline Teresa, we seek to witness the healing ministry of Christ to all those entrusted to us.

The Carmelite Sisters presently care for thousands of aged and infirm residents regardless of the race, creed, national origin or financial circumstances of the individual.

Following the philosophy of care as instilled by Mother M. Angeline Teresa, the sisters seek to make each

house a real haven oflove and Christian joy, serving each guest as though it were our Lord Himself to whom they were ministering. Using modem concepts of care and seeking always to maintain the highest standards in each of the houses, the sisters are involved in many different areas of work in caring for the elderly. Some serve as nurses, while other work as dietitians,lab and x-ray technicians, bookkeepers, typists, occupational therapists, housekeepers, administrators, and so forth.

Regardless of the specific job, though, each sister is concerned with the total well-being of the resident - be they sick or well - and each seeks to make the later years some of the richest in the individual's homeward journey to God. SPIRITUAL LIFE Just as the Cannelite Sisters lead a very active life in the Apostolate, so do they lead a very active life in the realm of the spiritual, too.

Through the Vows of Obedience, Poverty and Chastity, the sisters seek to remain faithful Spouses who will bring to others the love of Christ which they themselves possess. A strong spirit of prayer is also vitally important in the life of every

Cannelite Sister - it is the vitalizing force that enables her to remain active and faithful in the service of Christ while bringing the fullness of His love to the aged.

The sisters have a regular Community schedule which begins with Morning Prayers and daily Mass. The Divine Office is also said each day, as is the rosary, and an hour of meditation is made by each onedaily; over and above the spiritual exercises of each house there is a week of retreat each year at the Motherhouse.

Always looking to the example of the Blessed Vrrgin Mary of Mt. Cannel who is the special patroness of the Cannelite Congregation, the sisters recognize that love ofGod and growth in holiness are the essence of the religious life. Indeed, they are necessary if the work of the apostolate is to bear any fruit at all.

If you are interested in becoming a Carmelite Sister, call or write: Sr. M\lrgaret Jackson, O.Carm., 2446 Highland Ave., Fall River, MA 02720-4599, or call 508-679-0011.

The

Carmelite Sisters For The Iged &Infirm

W and

YOU

Want to learn more about our Community and our special mission?

We're happy to send you more literature or set up an informal meeting.

Contact: Vocation Department Sr. Margaret Jackson, O. Carm.

2446 Highland Avenue Fall River, MA 02720·4599 or call (508) 679·0011

.EDUCATORS IN THE FAITH This year, 20 men joined the formation programs of the 6 provinces of the Congregation of Holy Cross in the United States, including 6 for the Eastern Province of Priests & Brothers.

There are currently 73 men in the United States preparing to become Holy Cross Priests & Brothers - 12 in the Eastern Province.

• • •

College Candidate Program at Stonehill College, North Easton, Massachusetts One-year Candidate Program for college graduates at King's College, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania Non-residential Affiliate Program at Stonehill College

Give us one year - Give yourself the chance

ANSWER~ THE CALL \(J)I

For more information, contact: Fr. Jim Fenstermaker, C.S.C. Holy Cross Vocation Office' Stonehill College, #1962 Easton, MA 02357

5

A member of the Holy Cross Family: Sisters, Brothers, Priests and Lay Associates.

Visit us at: www.holycrosscsc.org Call us at: (508) 238-5810 Contact us at: csc-ep@stonehill.edu

6

'IHEANCHOR-Diocese ofFall River-Fri., November 19, 1999

we serve Christ through His priests

in a life that unites contemplation with action as we engage in such ministries as caringfor

rectories, bishop's houses and homes for retired priests. Our members may also serve as secretaries and sacristans. Like our patron, St.]oan ofArc, we are dedicated to the Church. we invite inquiries from interested women.

By CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

THROUGH PERSONAL WORK AND PRAYER

WE SUSTAIN THE PRIESTLY MINISTRY

Forfurther information, contact:

St. Joan of Arc Sisters 529 Eastern Avenue Fall River, MA 02723

.(508) 675-8592

HOLY UNION SISTERS Called to be at the heart of the world, we joyfully follow Jesus Christ and nook with hope to the future.

Ministering in the Providence and Fall River dioceses and _. in the Boston Archdiocese for over 100 years

Contact: SR. HILDEGARD KOGLER, susc SR. HELEN POIRIER, susc or SR. CONSTANCE GAGNON, SUSC Immaculate Conception Convent 21·60 31st Street St. Colman's Convent Astoria, NY 11105 45 Erie Ave. , (718) 278-5954 Brockton, MA 02302-3117 (508) 559-7642 An international congregation serving the needs ofthe people ofGod

VISIT .QUR WEBSITE: http://member.aol.com/smcburns/

Rose Hawthorne Lathrop Home

~

1600 Bay Street Fall River, MA 02724 (508) 673-2322

!free !JIea[tn Care for ittam:If,fe canar patients wfw cannot afforrl to pay for nursing care e£stuJfrere. ltufivitluali.zetl care atuf attention in an attTwspflere of peaa aruf wanntfl, wflere Unle, umferstatufing atuf compassion prevail.

'Beautiful setting overlookjng fMt.. "ope 'Bay.

I~ ,

Around the world, contemplate and experience the Love of Jesus with the Daughters of the Charity of the Sacred Heart ofJesus-a community of disciples whose mission varies according to the Church's needs: • early, special and mainstream education children, youths, adults • religious education and pastoral ministry serving parishes and dioceses .

• community service and retreat work • health care, geriatric, and hospice care in hospit.als, clinics, residential facilities, and homes • participation in projects in developing countries

~ ,

,

For additional information, contact: Sister Monique Couture, FCSCJ Mt. Sacred Heart, Grove St. - Box 642· Littleton, NH 03561-0642 603-444-5346 FAX 603-444-5348· E~mail: mocou@connriver.net

Franciscan Vocation Office Immaculate Conception Province (OFM) Email: Cbarles848@aol.com

70 those of you who think that Christ may be' inviting you to follow him in the priesthood or the consecrated ore, I make this appeal; I ask you to open your hearts generously to him; do not delay your response.• John Paul II.

The World Wealth

The Franciscans Poverty

Sex

Cbudty

Power

Obedience

Priesthood a life ofjoy, courage, Archbishop Chaput says

1-800-521-5442 (days) 1-888-521-5442 (evenings) 978-863-0042 978-863-0041 (evenings only) FAJ{:978-863-D172 Website: WWW.FRANCISCANVOC.ORG USA 459 River Road Andover, MA 01810-4213 CANADA

2210 Lawrence Ave. East Toronto ONT. MIP 2P9

DENVER - The priesthood, like married life, "is not merely life-changing but life-giving," Denver Archbishop Charles J. Chaput said in a pastoral letter.

"When genuinely given over to Christ, priesthood is a life of joy, courage, freedom a.nd fraternity, a life of fruitfulness and meaning,"he said in his fourth pastoral .letter since becoming archbishop of Denver in 1997.

"And .these things far outweigh its challenges."

Archbishop Chaput issued the letter this fall to coincide with the inauguration day of St. John Vianney Theological Seminary and the Our Lady of the New Advent Institute in Denver.

The letter, which carries the same title as Archbishop Chaput's episcopal motto, "As Christ Loved the 'Church," encourages present and future priests to "image" Christ and give joyfuJly of themselves.

It also asks families to support priests and foster future vocations in the home.

"As with married life, priesthood is a serious choice in response to God's call," he wrote.

"It has life-changing consequences."

Archbishop Chaput describes the priestly call to celibacy a "positive choice to be spiritually life-giving for the larger family of faith." He also said that living a celibate life demonstrates to others the radi-

Noting that "there is nO.priest without the family of faith," the archbishop encouraged the faithful to nourish and support priests, "as Mary and Joseph loved and formed and nourished an~ encouraged and supported Jesus."

The call for support from the faithful is what brought Trish Flynn-Hopkins, a parishioner at St. Frances Cabrini Parish in Littleton, to the Mass, accompanied by her 14-year-old son Luke.

"Luke is open to the call to the priesthood, so we 'want to love him and support him in "When genuinely given that decision," she over to Christ, priesthood is said after Mass, a life of joy, courage, freeadding that at least dom and fraternity, a life of two other youths from her parish atfruitfulness and meaning. tended for the And these things far outsame reason. weigh its challenges."

"We are living - Archbishop in an awesome time and the semiCharles J. Chaput, nary is a sign of Archdiocese of Denver that. We are living during a renewal of vocations," she added.. ·During the Mass, Cardinal Stafford "who dreamt the dream that Stafford noted that the chalice and has become a reality today."

Cardinal Stafford, former arch- paten he used to consecrate the bishop of Denver and now president bread and wine belonged to St. of the Pontifical Council for the La- John Vianney, the 19th-century parity at the Vatican, purchased the 40- ish priest after whom the new semiacre site of the Vincentian-operated nary is named. The saint, who is St. Thomas Seminary after it closed the patron of parish priests, was in 1995, hoping that it would some- known as a powerful confessor who encouraged people to lead holy day house another seminary.

Reflecting on the Old Testament lives.

"Seeing the cardinal with the reading from the Prophet Micah, Archbishop Chaput reminded the chalice that St. John Vianney used congregation that "God uses small was very powerful, overwhelming," seminarian Derek places to accomplish enormous said things - liKe Bethlehem, like the Adamczewski, 26, who sang during the Mass as part of the seminarbody and heart of Mary.

"God can bring great things out ian choir. "I'm just thankful to God of our little places, our individual for bringing me here and letting me lives, and this seminary," he added. be a part o! this." cal love God asks of them.

"We live in a uniq~e moment in the life of our local Church," Archbishop Chaput wrote in the letter.

"The institute and seminary we inaugurate this fall offer us the opportunity to bring the 'new evangelization' alive in a fresh and dramatic way."

In his homily at the dedication Mass, Archbishop Chaput thanked all who made the seminary possible, beginning with Cardinal J. Francis

Don't clos'e 'door on vO'cations, pope tells Italian youths

By CATHOUC NEWS SERVICE SALERNO, Italy - In a brief visit this fall to inaugurate a southern Italian seminary;-Pope Johri Paul II urged young people

not to close the door on priestly or religious vocations.

"Christ has invited each of us to follow him in a personal and specific way. The success of your life depends

SISTERS OF ST. DOROTHY WOMEN CONSECRAtED TO GOD WHO

DEDICAtE nt£MS£LVES TO 'lEACH. GUIDE AND SPR£AD GOD'S LOVE AND HOPE TO FII1VRE lEADERS .OF ~ CU1T11R£S IN 'fifE 20 COUNTRJ£S WE S£RVE. For information please call: Sister Mary Sardinha (401)254-8876 Mt. St. Joseph Convent 13 Monkeywrench Lane Bristol, RI 02809 SDlary321~oLcODl

on your response to his call," he said in the coastal city of Salerno.

"He cans you to holiness, even in the ordinary conditions of lay life. And if he asks some to dedicate themselves totally to the service of the Gospel in priestly or consecrated life, don't be afraid to welcome his proposal with courage," he said.

The pope traveled by helicopter from his summer residence outside Rome to preside over the ceremony to open a seminary that bears his name. The three-hour visit was attended by regional bishops, priests and some 6,000 faithful.

Speaking to seminarians and instructors, the pope said future priests need a strong program of theological and cultural formation. Priests need to be "men of God," and that means being "men of charity, of poverty and of understanding, capable of generously carrying out ·their ministry among the people of this land," he said, .. '" .

,

Holy Union Sisters look to the futture The Holy Union Sisters are a congregation of Catholic women religious who trace their origins to 19th century Douai, France.

The French Revolution and the decades following it were marked by extraordinary upheaval and human suffering. Such turmoil and pain led countless Christians from prayer and reflection on the needs of their suffering neighbors to action on their behalf. In cities, towns, and villages throughout France, women gathered for companionship and support as they acted to alleviate the misery surrounding them; many of these smal1, informal groups of compassionate women were the seeds from which religious congregations sprang and flourished.

One such group of four women, needle-workers by trade, dwelt in Saint James Parish in Douai. They lived and prayed together, working at their trade and offering assistance to those around them. Using their personal gifts and skills, they first taught needle-work to young girls from impoverished families, thus providing them with the means for an honest livelihood. Motivated by religious compassion, the women also taught the girls simple catechism classes. In 1826, John Baptist Debrabant was assigned as a curate in their parish. Sharing the women's compassion for the poor children of the city, he joined his gifts to theirs.

Other women, more educated than the first four, also pledged themselves to the new venture.

Gradually, schools were established in Douai and in the surrounding area. OUI religious congregation, the Holy Union Sisters, was born in religious response to human deprivation and social upheaval.

Today the Holy Union Sisters are an international congregation with geographic divisions called provinces on four continents.

Faithful to our heritage, we are engaged in ministry within the mission of the Roman Catholic Church. Service to those who have been made poor, and especially to women and children, is at the heart of our ministry.

The Holy Union Sisters are ministry in the United States began in Fall River, Massachusetts, in 1886, when 10 women from Ireland, France, and Belgium arrived to staff a parish school serving immigrant children and a secondary school for young women from more affluent families.

From this small seed, sisters now minister in Florida, Mississippi, Kentucky, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New York, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts and abroad. In the United States, a country marked by extremes of affluence and deprivation, our mission is to foster unity and reconciliation and to alleviate ignorance and suffering, primarily among the poor, the majority of whom are women and children, through education in all its forms, pastoral ministry, and social service.

Through all of their ministries, Holy Union Sisters work to bring about an awarertess of the problems of the oppressed and a response which liberates society and transforms unjust structures.

Community life supports and encourages the Sisters in the deepening of their apostolic commitment and in their growth together.

The Sisters hold prayer as the source of their life and of their integration as apostolic women in the Church. They value the Eucharist as the center of their lives.

Respecting the action of the Spirit in each Sister, the Community fosters an environment of openness and trust.

The Holy Union Sisters welcome as candidates women who evidence deep Catholic Faith and

show signs of being called to a life in an apostolic religious institute. Women with maturity, a potential for growth, adequate health, and with at least two years of work experience or education

1HEANCHOR- Diocese ofFall River- Fri., November 19, 1999

7

Constance Gagnon, SUSC, at St. Colman's Convent, 45 Erie Ave., Brockton, MA 02302-3117, or call 508-559-7642.

beyond high school are welcomed to consider membership.

For more information, contact Sr. Helen Poirier, SUSC, or Sr.

;

DOMINICAN SISTERS OF THE PRESENTATION

A life 0/love and joy in prayer...a community 0/sisters... radiating God's love through dedicated service.

In 36 countries throughout the world, more than 3,000 Dominican Sisters of the Presentation are commUnicating the compassion of God through missionary work and loving service to those in need.

Our sisters are engaged in charitable work and are active in diverse ministries such as healthcare, education, pastoral ministry, and social services.

We invite you to walk with us on this beautiful and challenging journey with Jesus through a lifetime of love and dedicated service to Him.

Ifyou seek further information please contact Sr. Carole Mello, OP., Director of Vocations, Provincial House, Dominican Sisters ofthe Presentation, 3012 Elm St., Dighton, MA 02715 508.669.5433 ~

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Saint John's Seminary SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY AND COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS 127 Lake Street, Brighton, MA 02135

To prepare and recommend candidates for ordination to the ministerial priesthood in the Roman Catholic Church Degrees Offered: B.A. and B.Phii. in Philosophy Master of Divinity M.A. in Theology

For further information please contact: Rector Rev. Msgr. Richard G. Lennon

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THEANCHOR- Diocese ofFall River- Fri., November 19, 1999

Pray for vocations

THE PERMANENT DIACONATE

Progress, new ch-allenges seen in U.S. Catholic seminaries ~ Dioceses advised to

seek those with aptitude for ministry; train priest scholars.

By JERRY FILTEAU CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

DIOCESE OF FALL RIVER

PREPARINGTHE CHURCH FOR THE NEW MILLENNIUM REV. MSGR. JOHN F. MOORE Director Of The Permanent Diaconate Program

REV CRAIG A. PREGANA Associate Director Of The Permanent Diaconate Program

DEACON LAWRENCE A. ST. ONGE Assistant Director Of The Permanent Diaconate Program 500 SLOCUM ROAD • NORm DARTMOUTH, MA 02747

TEL. 993-9935 Web Page

FAX 993-9950

E-mail frdeacon@sprynet.com http://home.sprynet.com/sprynet/frdeacon

Sisters of'

St.Joseph

WE ARE A COMMUNITY

OF RELIGIOUS WOMEN·

W

ho in collaboration with our associates - women and men, single and married - live and work for justice and peace in all areas of life that all may be united with God and one another.

If you would like to know more about us contact:

VOCATION EDUCATION OFFICE SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH MONT MARIE

MA 01040 413-536-0853

HOLYOKE,

Serving in !fie 'ltrchdioceses of 'Boston ana'lfewark, f]{J.

WASHINGTON - Catholic theological seminaries in the United States have improved over the past decade but must meet new challenges in the years ahead, according to a new study.

Recruitment of more students with an aptitude for ministry and better training in ecumenism, m.ulticultural studies and collaboration are among "critical concerns" for the future, the study says.

It also warns that bishops are not preparing a new generation of priest-scholars to replace current seminary faculty, especially in the fields of moral theology, homiletics, pastoral counseling, Scripture and liturgy.

"Without long-range planning and a coordinated effort to educate future faculty - especially priests - this already serious situation will become acute in another five to 10 years," it says.

Franciscan Sister Katarina Schuth, author of a major 1989 study of U.S. theological seminaries, "Reason for the Hope," conducted the new study as a IO-year follow-up. The new study, titled "Seminaries, Theologates and the Future of Church Ministry," is published by The Liturgical Press in CollegeviIIe, Minn.

Sister Schuth is professor of the social science study of reJigion at the St. Paul Seminary School of Divinity of the University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, Minn.

She reported that in 10 years U.S. Catholic theologates made significant progress in addressing some of the weaknesses found in the first study.

They have improved their pastoral field education and human and spiritual formation programs, several sectors of management and administration and their pretheology and multicultural stud-

ies programs, she said. She found that nearly every theologate has made substantial investments in developing computer resources and "more than a dozen theologates have made major renovations to their facilities."

The new study found that there were fewer theologates, fewer seminarians and fewer faculty than 10 years earlier, and the diversity of background among !ieminarians continues to pose a major educational and formational challenge.

To meet expanded formation needs, in 10 years seminaries have increased the faculty staffing of human and spiritual formation programs from about 80 to more than 200, it said.

Sister 'Schuth conducted the research for her first study in 1985-87 and for the second study, in 1995-97. The new study included questionnaires to all presidents or rectors of theologates and to about 200 faculty members, plus extens'ive interviews with some 550 administrators, faculty and students in on-site visits to 38 of the 42 theologates in 'the co~ntry.

From questionnaires and personal interviews with more than 600 of the 741 faculty members staffing those institutions, she said faculty members report high levels of satisfaction with teaching, working with students and general working conditions.

They express strongest dissatisfaction over their workload and lack of time to keep up in their field, she said.

She said a majority of faculty expressed the view that the quality of students at their institution has declined significantly in recent years, in terms of academic preparation and religious devel-' opment.

She said faculties are challenged by the diverse religious backgrounds of students - ranging from those deeply rooted in the faith to recent converts and to Catholics who had little connection with the Church most of their life, until a recen~ spiritual con-

Yersioti· experien'ce.

"The greatest challenge for faculty," she said, is "those (students) who have a rigid understanding of their faith."

"Such men want only clear, distinct ideas that are aligned with their view of orthodoxy....

They become suspicious of speculative thought simply 'because they cannot enter into it," she said.

She said the number of those seminarians is small, but "the impact they have far outweighs their limited numerical presence" because they create a climate of distrusf and defensiveness, publicly questioning the orthodoxy of professors and fellow students who do not share their limited view of the faith.

She said the ethnic, racial and cultural diversity of students is also a challenge to faculty.

Noting that ministry in multicultural settings is becoming an increasingly important characteristic of the U.S. Church, Sister Schuth said that while theologates have been making progress in multicultural studies, much more remains to be done.

"Few faculty - despite their willingness to learn - are prepared to teach about such ministry," she said. She cited lack of trained faculty-from minority groups, especially Hispanics, as a major difficulty. ' She reported that, despite the importance bishops and the Vatican attach to having priests on seminary faculties, U.S. theologate faculties have gone from 75 percent priests in 1985-87 to 66 percent priests in 1995-97.

In addition, more of those priests hold diocesan, parish or religious order posts in addition to their seminary job even though they are listed as full-time faculty, she said.

"Although some priests worked in dual positions in previous years, the proportion has increased sharply from about 10 percent to more than 30 percent. largely because of the diminishing supply of priests altogether," she wrote.

Our Oratorian Congregation was founded in Rome by St. Philip Neri in 1575. He is known as the apostle of joy. His living this virtue brought people of all ages and backgrounds to the Church.

SISTERS OF CHARITY OF OTIAWA St. Joseph Province

975 Varnum Avenue Lowell, MA 01854 CONGREGATIONAL WORKS include: education, health care, pastoral care, missionary activity in Brazil, Japan, Haiti; Atiica: Lesotho, Zambia, Malawi, Cameroon, and Papua New Guinea.

Are YOU a compassionate woman called to serve the needy?

Do YOU want to make a ditli:rcncc: in their lite?

If so, contact: Sister Gabrielle L. Jean. SCO Provincial House 975 Varnum Avenue Lowell, MA 01854 Tel. (978) 453·4993

We are a group of priests and lay men'who live a Community life without vows. We serVe the people of God in various ministties. We are in parishes, nursing, campus ministry, hospital chaplaincy, retreat work and an Oratory summer camp.

Like our ministries, our members are unique.

We have members from across the United States and from Brazil.

For more information please write to: Fr. Ed McDevitt, e.0. or Fr. Joe Pearce, e.O. The Oratory .

P.O. Box 11586 • Rock Hill, SC 29731-1586

Fidelity key for priests of next millennium, speaker says

By JEAN M. SCHILDZ

ing and teaching, prayerful and CATHOUC NEWS SERVICE reverent celebration of the EuST. LOUIS - What will the charist, and shepherding of a vinew priests of the next millen- brant and inviting parish life, he nium be like? said.

If Benedictine Father Mark Responding to Father O'Keefe has anything to say O'Keefe's comments were Father about it - and he does - they Louis T. Guerin, vocation minwill be men whose lives focus on ister in the Diocese of Palm the Word and the sacraments Beach, Fla., ana Father Robert while they seek to evangelize Finn, director of the Office of Catholics and non-Catholics.

Continuing Formation of Priests The responsibility of priests in the St. Louis Archdiocese.in any age is fidelity to their minFather Finn emphasized onistry, said Father O'Keefe, a moral going spiritual formation for theologian who is president-rec- priests to help them successfully tor of St. Meinrad School of The- carry out their ministry. The sacology in Indiana. "Priests will be raments of penance and the Euevangelizers for a new age by do- charist are of central importance, ing what they were consecrated he said. to do - by being what they were Priests should frequently reconsecrated to be." ceive the sacrament of reconciliFather 0' Keefe spoke on ation and make it readily avail"Gateway to a New Millennium: able to all. Those who "have Crossing the Threshold of Hope" themselves been moved to auat the 1999 ,..-., thentic convention conversion of the Na. Prie\sts will b,eeffective through a frequent tional Con- evange.. /izers through ference of encounter with the Diocesan sound preaching and Vocation living Jesus Directors teaching, prayerful and Christ will know best this fall in reverent celebration of how to exSt. Louis. h The con- t eEucharist, and tend repentance to ~~~:~o;n ~~~ shepherding of vibrant others," he said. challenges and inviting parish life.

Father of attracting , • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Guerin vocations • called conference participants in the new millennium.

More than 220 vocations di- "the principal realists" in the rectors gathered for the meeting, Church because they see what one of the largest turnouts in the lies ahead more clearly than othorganization's history, said Dor- ers.

Building on Father O'Keefe's othy Foss, executive director.

Some 97 percent of all U.S. dio- comments, Father Guerin said ceses were represented, she said. that not only the priesthood is In his speech, Father O'Keefe "in store for some turbulence in noted that the number of Catho- the future, but also parish comlics is on the rise while the num- munities as we know them." Notber of active priests continues to ing that this was a good starting fall. Some projections suggest point for vocation ministers, he that in a few years, half of U.S. added that this is where both the parishes will be without a resi- problem and its solution lie.

"If we keep trying to get vident pastor.

With the current culture able, healthy candidates out of blinded by materialism, consum- parish communities that are anerism, individualism, subjectiv- tiquated and paralyzed because ism and relativism, a priest in the they are essentially being mainnew millennium will find himself tained by management of an exercising his ministry to those older other model, then we are largely uninterested in it "and doomed to continue to produce perhaps unwelcoming, if not hos- priests whose dreams and ideals are squashed early in their first tile, to it," Father O'Keefe said.

In the foreseeable future, fewer assignment," Father Guerin said.

"After all, if the parish isn't priests will have to serve more and bigger parishes in a culture healthy, why should the appliless receptive to what they have cant be?" he asked.

Father Guerin proposed that to offer and among Catholics who, studies say, have less con- parish communities be allowed nection to the Church with each to manage themselves "under the care of a priestly presence passing generation, he said.

While the future of the priest- that is deeply rooted in 'being' hood or the shape of parish com- rather than 'doing.'''

"Do not water down the mesmunities are "not entirely rosy,'.'

Father 0' Keefe admitted, it sage," he cautioned vocations should not be feared. We must ministers. The "magnetism" of the priestly person "is to enertrust in God, he said.

The challenge for priests of to- gize, gather and commission the day and tomorrow is "to be faith- mundane into a formidable ful and effective agents of the community," he said. "It is from these communities that the new new evangelization."

Priests will be effective evan- vocations will emerge and prosgel izers through sound preach- per."

a

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THEANCHOR-Diocese ofFall River-Fri., November 19, 1999

9

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lHEANCHOR- Diocese ofF3n River--':'Ft1., November19;T999

They answered the call 路

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THADDEUS BURGMYER ST. THOMAS MORE PARISH

JAY MELLO

DAVID DESTON

SS. PETER & PAUL PARISH FALL RIVER

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,Today, Christ seeks courageous and faithful men to serve the Church as priests. Are you willing to give God a chance with your life?

If so, do something!

Contact the Vocation Office to learn more!

Consider th'e Diocesan Priesthood! .

.

.Contact Father Craig Pregana in thl! Vocation Office: Vocation Office, 500 Slocum Road, North Dartmiiuth, MA 02747-2930 .

Phone: 508-990-0371' .' Email: FRVocationOffice@]uno.com

The Lord ,is waiting for you to respond to his invitation!

Deacons

Continued from page one

serted.

Currently the diaconate in the Fall River Diocese has moved from a four-year "to basically a five-year program," St. Onge explained.

"The first year is one of evaluation and discernment ~ making sure each candidate has a vocational call to the diaconate. Then there are four years of academics, during which we continue the spiritual side at days of recol1ection and retreats."

Because most deacons are married men, wives of the candidates are invited and urged to participate as their husband's advance towards ordination.

In essence, said St. Onge, dioceses are now looking for candidates with deeper spirituality as well as a broader educational background to meet the demands foreseen in the upcoming mil1ennium.

"We're looking for men better prepared academical1y as well as spiritually, if we are to meet the various challenges."

In the late 1960s following the restoration of the diaconate by the Second Vatican Council, admission to the diaconate was regarded by many as simply a reward for having performed years of Church service.

"We've gotten away from that," St. Onge stated. " The diaconate is now seen as a truly vocational call, one that compliments the priesthood and is not in competition with it." The deacon is not ordained to the priesthood, but to a separate, distinct ministry to assist the priest, so that the priest may more ful1y minister in the priesthood, he ex-

plained.

St. Onge was one of nearly 400 permanent deacons attending the Region One, Northeast Regional Diaconate Assembly that met Nov. 12 and 13 at the Doubletree Inn, Newport, R.I. Its theme was: ''The Deacon: Educating for Life." It addressed cultural changes in the parishes, leadership, conflict resolutions, and the need for deacons to realize they must aspire to being holy men if they are to meet the Catholic faith's social responsibilities.

"These regional meetings are good because they allow the deacons and candidates to see a larger, more universal Church than just their own parish and diocese. They get to talk with deacons in other dioceses, see their problems and how they are resolving common problems. It is a chance to expand our own horizons and grow; to see the hard, basic problems facing the Church; how they impact the married deacon and what changes the deacon needs to make in his own life, his own ministry, to advance his own life of prayer."

St. Onge says the predominant chal1enge today is that deacons involve themselves more in social justice issues.

"Deacons must take a broader view of our ministry, one that embraces more than just !TIinistering in the parish, but reaching out to the poor, the sick, the abandoned, the marginalized ... basically, those with needs that should be met."

Many deacons have until now had a narrow vision of what their ministry involves, he said. While

Our Ladys Haven. Fairhaven

that was parish-oriented and there is nothing wrong with that, the deacon must reach out further," St. Onge commented.

He sees today's candidates for the diaconate - which must be at least 35 years old at recruitment time - "with a better understanding what they are facing, because people in general have come to a fuller realization of wh'at the diaconate is all about. I was in the

lHEANCHOR-Diocese ofFall River-Fri., November 19,1999 second class of deacons - ordained in 1982 - when it was a new concept and little catechesis had been done on it and people had little knowledge or appreciation of what the diaconate was all about."

Today's candidates, with a ful1er idea of the vocation "are also men who are better prepared academically too," according to St. Onge. "I

11

can't explain why, but that is what is happening. A similar trend is seen in vocations to the priesthood;" There are currently approximately 26,000 permanent deacons in the Church worldwide. Most of them are married with families.

Some 13,000 serve in the United States, yet some counties have fewer than a dozen.

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Vocations

,-

American Dream Challenge essayists chosen, honored

THEANCHOR-Diocese ofFall River-Fri., November 19, 1999

Continued from page one

easier to attract candidates for the eucharistic minister. priesthood when priests show they "Those who teach in the religious are happy with their vocations. education program of the parish are Young people have to see priests prime candidates since they are acenjoying their vocation. tive in works that are part of the life ''All the data we see indicates that ofthe priest," Father Pregana reported. the priest's dedication and approach- 'These are the young people most likely to be considerability are the most influential factors in r-------~--...., ing the priesthood." vocation promoSome recent major tion," Father Pregana findings from the Censaid. ter for Applied Re-. . The director says search in the Apostohe meets on a regulate indicates that volar basis with a cations should be fosgroup of young men tered in a community context Successful vointerested in learning more about vocacation efforts depend on the role of parish tions to the priesthood. The next gathfaith communities, ering will be on Fri- FATHER CRAIG A. PREGANA "and our diocese is day, Nov. 26, from DIOCESAN DIRECTOR OF blessed with some very 6:30 to 8 p.m. at SaVOCATIONS active Parish Vocations cred Heart rectory, Teams:' he said.

160 Seabury St., Fall River. Any "These parishioners gather to young men in high school or college pray for vocations on a regular bawishing to attend should contact the sis. Some are host to holy hours Vocation Office at 508-990-2342. while others conduct the 'Voca"Some of our diocesan seminar- tions Cross,' and some simply pray ians will be present to share some of the rosary for vocations just prior their experiences in discerning God's to Mass. Together, these groups have been the foundation of our call," he said.

Asked where or how a "typical'" success in the work of vocations," vocation might start, Father Pregan;l. said Father Pregana. ''What we can't afford to forget," said the young person is usually one who is involved in the life of the par- the director said, "is that vocations ish: as an altar server, member of a promotions belongs to each and evyouth group or the choir; lector or ery one of us."

BvPATMcGOWAN ' SPECIAL TO THE ANCHOR

FALL RIVER - October was a month for Espirito Santo and St. Jean Baptiste Schools.

Both had winners in the American Dream Challenge essay contest, sponsored annually by the Citizens Scholarship Foundation of America, founded by Dr. Irving Fradkin of Fall River.

At Espirito Santo, where the principal is Mrs. Patricia Benoit, the winner was eighth-grader Vanessa Medeiros, whose favorite subject is mathematics and who hopes to be a pediatrician, while at St. Jean Baptiste, with principal Kathleen Barboia, the winner was sixth-grader Craig Tavares. .

The American Dream Challenge program begins with fourthgraders and continues through 10th grade. Participants sign a pledge to avoid drugs, pregnancy and violence, to stay in school and speci~l

mond, whereas the unpressured coal remains just that. In the same way, a student who works hard can hope for success, while one -who does the minimum is unlikely to go far.

Panelists included Fall River Mayor Edward M. Lambert, who stressed the importance of community support for students; Bristol County Sheriff Thomas M. Hodgson, who noted that his Choices program goes into schools to warn students that jail, contrary to what some may think, is not a good place to be.

Others on the panel were Evelina Amaral, a parent; Kathleen Barboza, principal of St. Jean Baptiste School; Beverly Moore, principal of the Westall School; ~usan ,Lanyon, a teacher at Wiley School, all in Fall River; and Dr. Odete' Amarelo.

Reading their winning essays on the importance of education

:

Consecration to the Divine Will Oh adorable and Divine Will, behold me here before the immensity of Your Light, that Your etemal goodness may open to me the doors and make me enter into It to form my life all in You, Divine Will. Therefore, oh adorable Will, prostrate before Your Light, I, the least of all creatures, put myself into the little group of the sons and daughters of Your Supreme FIAT. Prostrate in my nothingness, I invoke Your Light and beg that it clothe me and eclipse all that does not pertain .to You, Divine Will. It will be my Life, the center of my intelligence, the enrapturer of my heart and of my whole being. I do not want the human will to have life in this heart any longer. I will cast it away from me and thus form the new Eden of Peace, of happiness and of love. With It I shall be always happy. I shall have a singular strength and a holiness that .sanctifies all things and conducts them to God. Here prostrate, I invoke the help of the Most Holy Trinity that They perinit me to live in the cloister of the Divine Will and thus return in me the fIrst order of creation, just as the' creature was created.

Heavenly Mother, Sovereign and Queen of the Divine Fiat, take my hand and introduce me into the Light of the Divine Will. You will be my guide, my most tender Mother, and will teaCh me to live in and to rnairitain myself in the. order and the boun¢; of the Divine Will. Heaveruy Mother, I consecrate my whole being to Your Immaculate Heart. You will teach me the doctrine of the Divine Will and I will listen most attentively to Your lessons. You will cover me with Your mantle so that the infernal serpent dare not penetrate into this sacred Eden to entice me and make me fall into the maze of the human will.

Heart of my greatest Good, Jesus, You will give me Your flames that they may bum me, consume me, and feed me to form in me the Life of the Divine Will.

Saint Joseph, you will be my protector, the guardian of my heart, and will keep the keys of my will in your hands. You will keep my heart jealously and shall never give it to me again, that I roay be sure of never leaving the Will of God. My guardian Angel, guard me; defend me; help me in everything so that my Eden may fl<;>urish and be the instrument that draws all men into the Kingdom of the Divine Will. Amen. ( In Honor of Luisa Piccarreta 1865-1947 Child of the Divine Will)

>"')

I'

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i r i Ir

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1 AMERICAN DRE~M Challenge essay winner Vanessa Medeiros of Espirito Santo School, Fall River, stands with School Principal Patricia Benoit and Dr. Irving F.radkin, founder of the Citizens Scholarship Foundation of America. (McGowan photo) do community service. Every two years the children are credited with $250. If they continue in the program through the 10th grade, they have accrued $1,000, which can be the start of a fund fOf college expenses.

The program also seeks to inspire parents to support their children's ambitions and teachers those of their students, asking parents to write their thoughts on encouraging and making sacrifices, for their children; and teachers on . why they chose a career ineducation.

I At the beginning of October, the American Dream Challenge was the topic of a panel discussion at Fall River's Government Center.

Speakers included Fradkin, who said thai "students are like a garden. Properly nourished, they can create a brighter tomorrow for themselves and their community."

Rev. Dr. Robert Lawrence, master of ceremonies for'the discussion, and pastor of Fall River's First Congregational Church, pointed out that a diamond and a lump of coal are both composed of carbon, but their difference lies in the fact that pressure is exerted on the dia-

were Scott Phuong, a fourth-grader at the Coughlin School; Shannon Plasski, a sixth-grader at Morton Junior High; and Vanessa Medeiros of Espirito Santo, who unfortunately left her essay at home, but filled in handily with her thoughts on abortion and the right to life. Vanessa was also a contest winner in sixth grade, when the year's topic was "Why I'm Proud to be an American."

Continuing the .program, April Thibeault, Miss Massachusetts 1999 and a senior at Boston's Emerson College majoring in broadcast journalism and minoring in public relations, emphasized the importance of realizing the value of education, from elementary through high school and college years. She also noted that the

Miss America program offers the largest scholarship program for women in the world.

An honor student at Emerson, she hopes to become a sports reporter and was the first woman sports coordinator for the college's FM radio stations. Another of her interests is ballet dancing; she has worked with the Boston, Pennsylvania and Joffrey ballet companies and studied at the School of American Ballet.

In the area of community service, Thibeault is, as Miss Massachusetts, promoting methods of preventing child abuse. For four years she has been active with Parents Helping Parents, a Boston organization that educates parents on avoidance of child abuse, receiving the organization's 1999 Best Volunteer Award. She is also a member of the Massachusetts Citizens for Children and Youth and the state's child abuse prevention committee.

In concluding the panel discussion at Government Center, Benoit noted that fourth grade was a good year to begin inspiring children, adding that many school principals had told her that they did not realize that fourth-graders are not too young to dream of their future.

Barboza, a member of St. John of God Parish, Somerset, and principal at St. Jean's for 10 years was proud to say that in her tenure she had seen many former pupils go on to college. She added that St. Jean Baptiste has a waiting list for students extending to the year 2005 and that some parents even sign up their yet-to-be~born offspring. , Fradkin, who over the years has seen scores of youngsters attend college with the help of American Dream scholarships, declared that "kids are the most important thing in the country, because they are its future." Addressing the children in the audience, he said "You have the gifts of life and education." Then, discussing what young people can do in their communities, he urged that they commit themselves to community service in their schools and wider communities-and not neglect to help at home. "Clean your room, fold the laundry, help with the 'dishes," he urged.

Grandparents, parents and youngsters alike went home fro111 Government Center, the grandparents and parents determined to support grandchildren and children in their academic efforts, each youngster hoping that he or sl1e would be the proud winner of an American Dream scholarship, and everyone grate, ful to Fradkin for his contributions to the future of the youth of Fall River.

The inherent value of every human life, at every stage and in every circumstance is not'a sectarian issue any more than the Declaration of Independence is a sectarian creed.

J

- NCCB, Uving the Gospel of Life: A Challenge to Al7lelican Catholics

Medals

Continued from page one

Stephen, Attleboro; Gloria H. Gaskin, Sacred Heart, North Atijeboro; Germaine E. Jasper, St. Mary, Seekonk; Magdalene Kogut, St. John the Evangelist, Attleboro; Caroline Ledger, St. Mary, Mansfield; Catalina Malone, Spanish Apostolate, St. Joseph, Attleboro; John F. McIntyre, St. Mark, Attleboro Falls; Elizabeth Poirier, St. Mary, North Attleboro; Drew Ward, S1. Joseph, Attleboro.

Cape Cod and the Islands John Joseph Aziz, St. Elizabeth Seton, North Falmouth; Dolores A. Bennett, S1. Mary/Our Lady of the Isle, Nantucket; Jeanne Bradford, Our Lady of the Assumption, Osterville; Brenda Canha, St. Augustine, Vineyard Haven; Allan DeBettencourt, Sacred Heart, Oak Bluffs; Rosemary Donelan, Our Lady of Victory, Centerville; Beatrice E. Gleason, Corpus Christi, East Sandwich; Jean Hannan, Christ the King, Mashpeej Carol Knebel, S1. Joseph, Woods Hole; Agnes L: Lyons, St. Francis Xavier, Hyannis; Joan A. L. Marzelli, St. John the Evangelist, Pocasset; Claire Mercier, St. Elizabeth, Edgartown; Beverly Murphy, S1. Anthony, East Falmouth; Edward O'Connell, Our Lady of the Cape, Brewster; Edie Oliosi, St. Margaret, Buzzards Bay; Helen Purcell, Our Lady ofLourdes, Wellfleet; Elisabeth Rewcastle, St. Joan of Arc, Orleans; Jennie Roderick, Holy Redeemer, Chatham; Joyce Roman, S1. Pius X, South Yarmouth; Elizabeth Tynan, S1. Patrick, Falmouth; Helen Marie Wedge, Holy Trinity, West Harwich.

Fall River Rose Mary Almeida, St. Anne, Fall River; Janice E. Arruda, Our Lady of Health, Fall River; Albert Beaudoin, St. Mary's Cathedral, Fall River; Norman Beausoleil, S1.

Michael, Swansea; David Botelho, S1. Patrick, Somerset; Olivia Carvalho, Espirito Santo, Fall River; Mary Champagne, Sacred Heart, Fall River; Eileen Corey, St. Joseph, Fall River; Helen Correia, St. Elizabeth, Fall River; Eduino da Camara, Santo Christo, Fall River; Maurice Dore, St. Jean Baptiste, Fall River; Elaine Franco, Holy Rosary, Fall River; Arthur E. Francoeur, Notre Dame, Fall River; Delores Highsmith, S1. Thomas More, Somerset; Stanley Kiepaz, Our Lady of Grace, Westport; Robert Lavoie, Blessed Sacrament, Fall River; Manuel S. Marques, S1. Anthony of Padua, Fall River; Leon J. Menard, Our Lady of Fatima, Swansea; Thomas Pasternak, St. Stanislaus, Fall River; Raymond Perry, St. John of God, Somerset; Helen Polak, Saints Peter and Paul Parish at Holy Cross Church, Fall River; Richard Roderick, Holy Name, Fall River;

Vespers

Julieta Santos, S1. Bernard, Assonet; Jeannette Thibault, S1. Louis de France, Swansea; Veronica Urban, St. Patrick, Fall River; Leo Walls, S1. Louis, Fall River.

New Bedford Frank P. Adamowski, St. Casimir, New Bedford; Irene Beaulieu, S1.

Mary, New Bedford; Robert Beaulieu, Sacred Heart, New Bedford; Armand Cote, S1. Joseph, Fairhaven; Catherine Desjardins, St. Joseph, New Bedford; Dorothy Ellis, St. Francis ofAssisi, New Bedford; Natalie da Luz Ferreira, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, New Bedford; Nancy Fleming, St. Anthony, Mattapoisett; Kazirniera Galanek, S1. Hedwig, New Bedford; Concepcion Gomes, Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe, New Bedford; Irene L. Harnois, S1.

Lawrence,. New Bedford; Therese Ledoux, St. Francis Xavier, Acushnet; Joseph E. Lentz, St. Mary, South Dartmouth; Suzann~ Levesque, S1.

Anthony, New Bedford; Pauline Macedo, S1. John the Baptist, New Bedford; JoanneMaillet.St. Anne, New Bedford; Joseph Lawrence Maloney, St. Patrick, Wareham; Lucille Messier; St. John Newmann, East Freetown; Mary Mitchell, St..

James, New Bedford; Lillian R. Nunes, Holy Name, New Bedford; Lucille C. Pepin, Our Lady ofFatirna, New Bedford; Diane Rego, St. Kilian, New Bedford; Jeannette Robida, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, New Bedford; Leona Rodrigues, St. George, Westport; John Saraiva, S1. Julie Billiart, North Dartmouth; Joseph Silva, Our Lady of the Assumption, New Bedford.

Taunton Philip E. Bedard, St Jacques, Taunton; Ralph Holmes Chariwood, St. Joseph, North Dighton; Harold Gracia, St. Peter, Dighton; Leo R Harlow, Immaculate Conception, North Easton; Therese L. Johnson, Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Taunton; Stanley Killian, Our Lady ofthe Holy Rosary, Taunton; Marie Madden, Holy Cross, South Easton; Joseph L. Mello, Our Lady of Lourdes, Taunton; Beatrice Pereira, S1. Anthony, Taunton; Joseph Sa, S1. Ann, Raynham; Annamae Schondek, St. Paul, Taunton; Marilyn Sikorski, St. Mary, Taunton; Alvin G. Souza, Holy Family, EastTaunton; Fran~is 1. Souza, Sacred Heart, Taunton; ,CharlesVeloze, StJoseph,Taunton.

The parishes to be presented banners as sites for eucharistic adoration are: Holy Trinity, West Harwich; Christ the King, Mashpee; S1. Pius, SouthYarmouth; S1.Anne's and St. Mary's in Fall River (St. Anthony of the Desert has already been so designated by the Maronite Dio-

cese); Our LadyofMountCarmel, New Bedford; St. John Neumann, EastFreetown; St. Anthony of Padua, Taunton; La Salette Shrine in Attleboro and St. Mary's in Mansfield.

THEANCHOR-Diocese ofFall River-Fri., November 19, 1999

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Dr. William Jeffrey Long, a Fall River native, has returned to the area and is accepting new patients to his practice in internal medicine. Dr. Long's credentials include:

Continued from page one

and in our world."

HIV/AIDS virus and their famIn the context of the service, ily members, AIDS Ministry Ofprayers will be offered for relief for fice volunteers, and a represen~ all people who are infected and af- tation of students from Stonehill fected by HIV and AIDS, and for College in North Easton. those who have died and their Last year's Vespers for the loved ones. vigil was professionally reA reception will follow the ser- . corded by Sound Dynamics Asvice in St. Mary's Hall, the former sociates. The Office of AIDS St. Mary's Cathedral School, which Ministry has now produced an is located across the street from the audio compact disc of the service. They will be available at church.

Assisting Dr. Winter-Green in this year's Vespers.

For more information, conthe coordination of the Vespers are clergy, religious and lay persons, tact the AIDS Ministry at (508) including those living with the 674-5600, extension 2295.

13

• Graduate of Dartmouth College • Graduate of Brown University School of Medicine • Diplomate, the National Board of Medical Examiners ". Diplomate, the American Board of Internal Medicine Patients are encouraged to call .or an appointment, 508-672-6400.

William

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Dr. William Jeffrey Long 101 Sullivan Drive, Fall River, MA

02721

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THEANCHOR-DioceseofFallRiver-Fri.,November 19,1999

OUf

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Catholic Schools â&#x20AC;˘ OUf Catholic Youth'

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Bishop Feehan High School

SECOND-GRADERS at Saint Anthony's School, New Bedford, count pumpkin seeds during a recent lesson in estimation.

They tried to estimate the number of seeds in different sized pumpkins and as a treat the seeds were toasted and eaten.

--

BISHOP FEEHAN High School freshmen theology students and their teacher John Clossick, far left, collected 41 tubs of clothes for its Christ's Closet Clothing store. It is operated by the Attleboro school's Campus Ministry Office and helps the area's needy.

THE NATIONAL Honor Society of 'Bishop Feehan High School recently inducted 31 new students. They are selected based on academic excellence, community service, character and integrity. Among those inducted were Ellis Titmas, Jillian Whittaker, Nicole Nadeau, Molly Corcoran and Jillian Vozzella.

STUDENTS AT Our Lady of Mount Carmel School, New Bedford, listened to Bob Mehrman talk about the dangers of cigarette smoking during a recent school assembly. He has been educating young people at schools and youth groups since throat cancer forced him to speak through an artificial larynx. Pictured, with Mehrman, from left are Sarah Vieira, Chantalle'Chaves, Stacie Costa, Chris Gouveia, Tim daSilva, Chris Andre, Kenny Paulino and Amy.Moreira.

.-'

SEVENTH-GRADE students at Holy Family-Holy Name School, New Bedford, recently completed a project on the Saints of the Catholic Church. As part of presentations many students dressed up as their chosen saint.

SEVENTH- AND eighth-graders from Holy Family-Holy Name School, New Bedford, spent" part of All Souls' Day at .Saint John's Cemetery to pray the rosary, clean grave sites and remember those who have gone before them, as part of a school project. Pictured are, from left, chaperone Cynthia Mello, Shawnai Matos, Thomas Grime, Zachary Mello, and chaperone Patricia Grime.

After you mail your college application

By AMvWasORN CAlHOUC NEWS SERVICE

It's done - you think.

Should you check it again?

Go ahead, look through the envelope if you need to make sure: The check is there, the essays too, the letters ofrecommendation and - at last, presenting the most important piece of paper in the universe at this moment - your college application.

A seemingly innocuous setofquestions and answers that only symbolizes the rest ofyour life! Are you ready to let it go and allow life to take its course?

I have a son who is 17 and a senior, so this is a rather personal topic at the moment and a matter ofsome anxiety.

For you see, my son, gifted as he is in many ways, has not exactly glimmered with motivation and academic enthusiasm the past three and one-haIf years. It's been a struggle, not because he can't make good grades, but because he can.

Like any good-natured, highly distractihlc young man, when he's confrontw with that difficult, daily choice of study or "doing something else,"

he tends to pick the something else.

So here he is now, with grades that are not terrible, but do not guarantee admission into the college of one's choice, either.

. -~711 Coming of

flge Excuse us if things are a bit tense around here the next few weeks. You see, there's only one college my son is interested in. I won't name it, but it's the school both his father and I attended and at which -his grandfather (my dad) was a professor for many years.

Somehow, around age two, my son's blood turned into the colors of this university, and he's lived for the place and, in particular, its not-unsuccessful football team.

It's a large state university, so we don't have the angst ofprivate-school

admission and tuition, but there are problems. We don't live in that state anymore, so he'll be trying to get in as an out-of-state student.

We just don't know.

He'll apply to a couple of other schools, though he doesn't want to. I guess he sees it as bad luck in a way.

He's putting all his eggs in one basket, and it's worrisome. He's meeting with his guidance counselor today to fill out the rest of the application. A couple ofdays from now, he'll have it all together, along with his best standardized test scores.

He'll stand at the mailbox and, in a moment of faith, let go.

From that point, it's out of his hands.

All of you applying to college are facing that exact same moment. You never know what's going to happen.

You may be a good student, but you're not the only one. There are always students out there, seeking the same spot you are.

So what are you going to do while you wait, and what are you going to do when you get your news in a few weeks or months?

Our Rock and Role Thankful for those who bring out our best

By CHARLIE MARTIN· CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

Music of You'll never know What you've done for me What your faith In me Has done for my soul.

You'll never know the gift I'll carry it with me Through the days ahead.

I'll think of days before When you made me hope For something better.

Yes you did.

And made me reach For something more.

Refrain: You taught me to run, You taught me to fly, Helped me to free The me inside, Helped me hear

~Y

Heart

The music of my heart, Helped me hear The music of my heart.

You opened my eyes, You opened the door To something I've Never known before, And your love Is the music of my heart.

You were the one Always on my side, Always on my side.

Always standing by, Always standing by, Seeing me through.

You were the song That always made me sing, Made me sing.

I'm singing this for you,

WHO BROUGHT out the best in you this past year?

What helped you find more of the goodness that God placed within you?

Thanksgiving is a time not just for lots of good food and social gatherings. It is a time for honest and deeply felt gratitude. Voicing gratitude to those who made a difference in your life this year is a sure way to take on the spirit of this holy day.

Such thoughts came to my mind as I listened to N Sync's and Gloria Estefan's new hit "Music of My Heart."

These lyrics from the soundtrack of the new movie "Music of the Heart" remind us what a difference those who believe in us can make.

The film tells of a violin teacher who helps her students achieve artistry that they did not believe possible.

Most of us will not be interested in learning to play the violin. However, God put passion for some aspect oflife in every soul. When we discover this passion and pursue it, we experience more satisfaction and meaning.

Few of us achieve this satisfaction only through our own efforts. Even goals we feel passion about can be elusive. Disappointment may erode our desire to reach them. That's where support from others helps us to keep striving.

Most of us need someone to teach us how to "run" and "fly." It may be another who opens "the door to

You could, ofcourse, pray. Not SO much for the results you want, but for a spirit of openness and acceptance of whatever happens.

Faith is a trusting relationship with God. At its root, it involves believing that God is God and in control. After that, it means trusting that God wants the best for you, and accepting it with a gracious and grateful spirit.

I know it'sreally hard to understand, especially ifthe news is ''bad:'butfaith means being grateful either way.

After all, you may have hoped to go someplace good, but could it be possible that God's care and love for

you is going to send you someplace better?

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Singing this for you, babe.

Everywhere I go I'll think Of where I've been, .

And of the one who knew me, Knew me better, Than anyone ever will again.

(Repeat refrain.)

What you taught me Only your love Could ever teach me.

You got through when No one could reach me before.

Because you always saw in me All the best that I could be.

It was you who set me free.

Written by Diane Warren Sung by Gloria Estefan and N Sync; Copyright (c) 1999 by Sony Music Entertainment

something I've never known before," who can get through when no one else can. Thus, this person's "love is the music of my heart."

Sometimes the context in which a person helps makes all the difference. I remember when I was a teen, I was basically unhappy, achieving nothing of note and thinking only negative thoughts about my future. My parish's assistant pastor took an interest in me. He invited me to go along with him when visiting his friends and in general demonstrated that I was worth his time and interest.

Guess what? I began to feel differently about my life.

My grades went up, and I even began thinking about college and a variety of careers!

Today I have no idea where this priest is. I doubt he has any idea what a difference he made for my future. I am not sure how much I thanked him for what he did.

I didn't see what an opportunity Thanksgiving presents. I encourage you not to make the same mistake.

Whether in a card or in spoken word, this Thanksgiving, tell someone how his or her interest and belief in you became the music in your heart. . Also thank God, who sent you this person. God always believes in us, and these special people manifest God's faith in us.

Your comments are always welcome. Please address: Charlie Martin, 7125 W 2008, Rockport, Ind. 47635.

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16

lHEANCHOR-Diocese ofFall River-Fri., November 19,1999

"Holiday Challenges." Ap welcome. For more information call Dorothyann Callahan at(617) 2675258.

EAST FREETOWN - Hearts and Hands will hold a special memorial service honoring children and their families on Sunday at 2:30 p.m. at St. John Neumann Church. It is open to any pa:ents who have lost a child. If you would like to have a child mentioned in the service and memorial book call 758-1300.

NEW BEDFORD - The stuFALL RIVER - The Fall River dents of Holy Family-Holy Name Widowed Group will meet bn Nov. .School invite people to share the 22 at 7 p.m. in the St. Mary's School birth of the Lord with them in song hall. All widows and widowers are and tableau on Dec. 19 at 3 p.m. at welcome. For more information call St. Lawrence Martyr Church, 110 Summer Street. Attendees are asked Annette Dellecese at 679-3278. to bring a canned good. For more MANSFIELD - If you or a information call 993-3547. loved one needs extra prayers or '. would like to join the Prayer Chain NEW BEDFORD - Saint

Iteering pOintl ASSONET - The Rosary Crafters Group ofSt. Bernard's Parish will meet on Noy. 22 at 7:15 p.m. in the first classroom of its.

Religious Education Center, 30 South Main Street. Join them in making rosaries for people around the world. New members always welcome. For more information call 644-5585.

ATTLEBORO - A Healing Service with Mass will be held on Sunday at 2 p.m. at the La Salette Shrine. It will be led by Father Pat and include music and the opportunity for people to be prayed over individually. For more information call 222-5410.

Several La Salette Fathers will lead a ''Turkey Trot," a one-hour walk that begins at 9 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day from the Shrine's chapel. It will be followed by a prayer service and refreshments. All welcome.

CENTERVILLE - The Cape Cod Widowed Support Group will hold its next meeting on Nov. 2.4 from 1:30-3 p.m. at Our Lady of Victory Church. The topic will be

NEW BEDFORD- An End of Life Issues Course to discuss the Church's response to physician-assisted suicide, will be discussed on Monday evenings from 7-9 p.m. un" til Dec. 13 at St. Mary's Parish, 106 lllinois Street. For more information call Lisa Gulino at 678-2828.

Anne's Hospital School of Nursing Alumni Association will hold its annual Christmas party on' Dec. 1 beginning at 6 p.m. at Davy's Locker. For more information call Josie Lafleur at 763-2609~ NEW BEDFORD- The Prayer Group of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish will meet on Nov. 23 at 1 p.m. in the church for recitation of the Divine Mercy Chaplet, rosary, prayer, reflection, a Marian talk and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. All welcome.

NORTH DARTMOUTH-A Separated-Divorced Group will meet on Nov. 29 from 7-9 p.m. at the Diocesan Family Life Center.

Dottie Levesque will address the topic "How to Survive the Holidays as a SeparatedlDivorced Person."

All welcome.

FAIRHAVEN-St.Mary'sParish will host an Advent Prayer Service themed "The Silence of Mary," on Dec. 5 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. It will feature a dance and refreshments will be available. All welcome.

FAIRHAVEN, - St. Joseph's Parish will host the annual Thanksgiving Ecumenical Service on Nov. 23 at 7 p.m. at the church, 41 Walnut Street. All welcome. Refreshments will be served following the gathering. For more information call 994-9714.

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u.s. BISHOPS gather for their annual fall meeting in Washington Nov. 16. About 300 bishops from ac~oss the country took part in the meeting. (CNS photo)

Restructuring debate dominates second day of bishops' meeting

FAX (508) 673-1545

"ot everyone flies south for the season - there are still plenty of parish activities to attend.

Advertise yours. or locate one for the family.

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the ancho,s, 675-7151 or FAX 675-7048 --~-

of St. Mary's Church, call Rita Roah at 339-4483 or Marilyn Healy at 339-2668.

FALL RIVER - A pilgrimage with Bishop Sean O'Malley to Washington, D.C. for the annual March For Life is being organized by the Pro-Life Apostolateof the Diocese for Jan. 23-25. It will include Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and a group Mass with the bishop. A youth bus is being arranged to accommodate young persons at a reduced fare. For more information call 997-2290.

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WASHINGTON (CNS) - The shape and functioning ofthe U.S. episcopal conference in years to come dominated the discussions on "fuesday, the second day of the bishops' fall general meeting in Washington.

Debate on the proposed restructuring of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops and U.S. Catholic Conference was led by Bishop Rob-" ert N. Lynch ofSt Petersburg, Fla., in place ,of Archbishop Daniel' E. Pilarczyk of Cincinnati.

Archbishop Pilarczyk, who chairs the bishops' Ad Hoc Corninittee for Revision of Statutes and Bylaws, had been hospitalized in Washington with chest pains but returned to the meeting to applause from his fellow bishops.

In a setjes of votes, the bishops OK'd a revised mission statement for what will be called the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, as well as new regulations on conference statements and dianges in the composi-. tion of the Administrative Committee.

Results of a vote on new conference statutes - which will need to be approved by the Vatican - were not made public before the bishops went into an afternoon executive session.

On the second day oftheirNov. 1518 meeting, they also elected a new treasurer and chairmen for various NCCB and USCCcommittees, heard a report6nthe~tuationin~emamfiom

Archbishop Jean-Baptiste Pham Minh Man of Ho Chi Minh City, and en-

dorsed calls for the beatification ofArchbishop Oscar Romero ofSan Salvador.

Still to come on the bishops' agenda was consideration of an ambitious array of documents on topics ranging from Catholic colleges to the elderly, from adult faith formation to the new millennium itself.

The bishops devoted the first morning of their general meeting at the Hyatt Regency Capitol Hill in Washington to preliminary consideration of eight action items.

Bishop Joseph A. Fiorenza of Galveston-Houston, NCCB-USCC president, opened the meeting with a talk summarizing distractions and challenges facing the Church as it enters the new millennium, but calling on the trust and courage exhibited by U.S. Church leaders throughout itS history.

A hot topic Wednesday was expected to be the proposed norms implementing Pope John Paul II's 1990 apostolic exhortation, "Ex Corde Ecclesiae." The papal document sets general norms for Catholic colleges and universities around the world but leaves it to bishops' conferences to make more specific applications in light of the situation in each country. , The proposed document on the blessings of age is addressed not just to the elderly, but to all Catholics, Bishop Joseph P. Delaney of Fort Worth, Texas, said in introducing the text "It challenges faith communities to fully incorporate older persons,into

those communities," he said. The 6,OOO-word document was to be voted on Thursday.

Other action items receiving a first ,look were: - proposed guidelines for the concelebration of the Eucharist; - a 1O,OOO-word pastoral message on charity that says Catholics "cannot remain idle wimesses" amid the tragedies of poverty, hunger, human suffering 'and other social sins; - a pastoral plan on adult faith formation that stresses the importance of lifelong education to help adult Catholics make their faith stronger and more mature; - a series of norms on admission of seminary candidates who had formerly been in other seminaries or religious order formation houses.

The meeting's first day also included the bishops' annual budget and pl~nning decisions, including approval of a $52.7 million budget for 2000 and a diocesan aSsessment increase of 1.6 percent in 2001.

Duefor discussion but no vote were draft documents on Church art and architecture, the ongoing formation of priests and ecclesiallay ministry.

Added to an already crowded agenda'at the last minute were reports on the effects of the U.S. embargo on the Iraqi people; the tense situation over the building of a mosque in Nazareth; and the cause for beatification ofArchbishop Romero, which the bishops endorsed in a unanimous voice vote on Tuesday.