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By MATT McDONALD

By CATHOUC NEWS SERVICE

ANCHOR STAFF

YARMOUTH - These are exciting times for Yarmouth resident Marylee Meehan, who as the recently elected president of an international nursing organization is hoping to help make it safe for Catholic nurses to exercise their consciences in the workplace.

Meehan, herselfa retired registered nurse, plans to attend a forum at the Vatican at the end of the month designed to get Catholic organizations to work together with other nongovernmental organizations to try to make a bigger splash for Catholic values at the United Nations and elsewhere.

Meehan noted in an interview last week ~a! many Catholic nurses work Turn to page 13 -Nurse

Bishops iron out full agenda

BALTIMORE - The announcement of dates and locations for Pope Benedict XVI's U.S. visit next year highlighted the U.S. bishops'November 12-15 fall general meeting in Baltimore. The April 15-20 trip will include visits to New York and Washington and an address at the United Nations.

For the first time in 36 years, the bishops elected a cardinal - Francis E. George of Chicago - as their next president.

With the approval of the body of bishops, a new statement on Iraq was issued in the name ofthe bishops' outgoing president, Bishop William S. Skylstad ofSpokane, Wash. It says that MOTHERS AND SISTERS - Benedictine Sister Paula Hagen speaks to delegates from across some U.S. policymakers "seem to fail the diocese at a Ministry of Mothers Sharing informational meeting at St. Julie Billiart Parish in North Dartmouth November 15. Story on page 11. (Photo by Brian Kennedy) to recognize sufficiently the reality and failures i\'1 Iraq and the imperative for new directions."

"As pastors and teachers, we are convinced that the current situation in Iraq remains unacceptable and unsustainable," it says and notes that for almost two years the bishops have called for bipartisan action. "Our country needs a new direction to reduce the war's deadly toll and to bring our

By DEACON JAMES N. DUNBAR He added that traditionally there are approximately people together to deal with the 40 to 50 of the Thanksgiving baskets prepared by each of conflict's moral and human dimenFALL RIVER - At first it might simply look like just a "horizontal" relationship - of people reaching out to the parishes, "and it' won't be until after Thanksgiving sions."

On November 14, the last public that the actual numbers will be reported to me." people. day ofthe four-day meeting, the bishThen will it be time to sit back and relax?

But as stores, markets and businesses join in a com"Absolutely not, because we're then on deadline to . ops approved the document "Fonnmon endeavor to ensure路a merry Christmas for those.who otherwise wouldn't bet?njoying the second .most impor- get out another approximate 4,000 Christmas baskets to ing Consciences for Faithful CitizenTurn to page 18 -Bishops tant holy day on' the Church's calendar, the adventur~ families who can't afford to celebrate the holy day-holibecomes "vertical" in allowing grateful hearts and minds . day," he declared. to raise to thoughts of the Savior whose birth is being But the Christmas effort means not only a dinner, but celebrated. .. . toys and clothing as well.

"Sometimes we alter the food menu to include ham As The Anchor talked with people and agencies strug- . gling to meet time and charitable donation deadlines and or chicken, but we also include toys for the children and come up with a full menu for families across the Hill even needed clothing like winterjackets or coats," Correia River Diocese, the effort appeared to be creating more reported.. satisfaction than woe.

"But if it wasn't for fund-raisers and those who doAt the same time, those leading the programs are quick nate through their parish's Giving Tree, and stores and so to thank and praise. the many generous donors, mpst of many generous people, including retired priests, we whom choose to remain anonymous. wouldn't be able to do what we do."

Asked whether he was up to his neck in turkeys, Ron The Giving Tree Program, sponsored by the diocese's Correia, Central Council president of the St. Vmcent de Office of Catholic Social Services, in which a total 25 Paul Society, laughed and said, "You might say that." parishes participated in 2005, furnished a reported 6,222 Correia reported approximately 4,000 food baskets gifts of clothing and toys across the diocese. targeting needy families in the diocese were being preCorreia reported that a family night fund-raiser hosted pared by the 82 parishes that have St. Vmcent de Paul by Sharpshooters, a billiards parlor in Fall River's Flint section, helped raised nearly $5,000 to assist in the Christconferences. . ''The Thanksgiving baskets - in reality boxes - in- mas giving program.

At the far tip of Cape Cod in Provincetown, one finds clude a turkey, or a second turkey depending on the size of the family, as well as all the fixings, potatoes, cran- the famed "Kitchen Angels" of St. Peter the Apostle Parberry sauce, vegetables and rolls. They are delivered and ish nearing its deadline for making Christmas bright for in some caSes made available to the listed families at the approximately 30 families that include between 60 and parish itself this very weekend," Correia said.

Turn to page 18 - Needy

Bringing Christmas to needy keeping parishes, agencies and schools busy As' gathering of food and toys peaks, 'more donors, volunteers are needed

- MARYLEE MEEHAN

Advent Series with Father Richard Gribble, esc begins this week on Page 14.

$ NEWS

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FROM THE VATICAN

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NOVEMBER

23, 2007

Pope, at audience, encourages Christians to read the Bible

By CINDY WOODEN

St. Jerome, he said, recognized the "right of women to have a comVATICAN CITY - To know plete human, scholastic, religious God and to know how to live their and professional formation." lives, Christians must read the Education, the pope said, espeBible, Pope Benedict XVI said. cially regarding one's "responsi"Drawing close to the biblical bilities before God and other hutexts, especially the New Testa- man beings, is the real prerequiment, is essential for believers be- site for true progress, peace, reccause 'ignorance of the Scriptures onciliation and the exclusion of all is ignorance of violence."

Christ,'" the pope - - - - - - - - - - "The sacred said, quoting St. Pope Benedict said the Scriptures offer Jerome. books of the Bible "were us guidance for At his Novem- written by the people of education and, ber 14 weekly God, under the inspiration therefore, for general audience, of the Holy Spirit, " so "only true humanthe pope contin- in harmony with the faith of ism," the pope ued a talk begun this people can we under- said. the week before Immedistand the sacred Scripately after the about the impor- ture." tance of the teachaudience, ing of St. Jerome, Pope Benedict the fourth-century doctor of the went up to his private chapel in Church. the Apostolic Palace to venerate Reading the Bible teaches be- the relics of S1. Therese of lievers the way they are to live their Lisieux, the 19th-century lives, the pope said, but the Scrip- Carmelite saint. Pope John Paul tures must be read in a spirit of II proclaimed her a doctor of the prayer and must be understood the Church in 1997. way the Church understands them.

The relics were brought to "For Jerome, a fundamental cri- Rome by the bishop of Bayeux, terion for the interpretation of France, to mark the 120th anniScriptures was harmony with the versary of St. Therese's trip to magisterium of the Church,'; he Rome at the age of 15 to ask Pope [;eb XIII for permission to enter said.

Pope Benedict said the books of the Carmelite order. Pope Leo told the Bible "were written by the her the local Carmelite superior people of God, under the inspira- would have to decide if she could tion of the Holy Spirit," so "only enter despite her young age. She in harmony with the faith of this was admitted to the convent in people can we understand the sa- 1888.

Pope Benedict told the esticred Scripture."

The pope said St. Jerome also mated 13,000 people at his audiemphasized the importance of "a ence, "St. Therese wanted to learn healthy, integrated education" in the biblical languages to better religion, morality and culture for read the Scriptures. Imitating her all Christians, including women, and the example of St. Jerome, which was unusual in ancient take time to read the Bible regu-' larly." times.

CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

April Visit

\\

The tentative schedule of Pope Benedict XVI,. , on his first pastoral visit to the United States. .-/

WASHINGTON Arrive in the nation's capital.

April 15

16

Official w~lcome at the, White House. Address to U.S. bishops at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

Mass at the new Nationals baseball stadium. Visit to The Catholic University of America. Interfaith meeting at the Pope John Paul" Cultural Center.

17

18

NEW YORK Address to the United Nations.

Ecumenical meeting.

19

Mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral.

Meeting with youths and seminarians.

20

Visit to ground zero. Mass at Yankee Stadium.

5oorcl'!: u.s. Confem1CP. of (.-thoU,. BkhQcK;

02007 CNS

WHAT'S COOKING? - Pope Benedict XVI waves to a group of Italian cooks as he arrives to lead his weekly general audience in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican recently. (eNS photo/Daria Pignatelli, Reuters)

Italians to hear more than 100,000 changes to Scriptures at Mass

By CINDY WOODEN CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE VATICAN'CITY - Italians listening to the Scriptures at Mass will no longer hear that it is impossible to serve "God ap(t mammon," but rather that no one can serve both "God and wealth."

On the feast of the Annunciation, the Gospel reading no longer will have the angel Gabriel greeting Mary with the words "Hail, full of grace," but rather with "Rejoice, full of grace."

After five years of work and 15 drafts, the flfSt volumes of Scripture readings for Masses in Italian have been approved by the Vatican and may be used in parishes beginning in December.

The new lectionaries for Sundays and holy days - one for each year of the three-year cycle of readings - were presented November 12 at a Vatican press conference.

The bishops expect to complete the collection of readings for other Masses by the end of 2008 and use of the new translations will be obligatory beginning with Advent 2010.

Bishop Giuseppe Betori, secretary-general of the Italian bishops' conference, said the new translation "eliminates archaic forms of language and syntax" and has "a rhythm of phrases adapted for liturgical proclamation and, eventually, for song."

Work on the new translation, which includes probably "more than 100,000" changes from the version currently in use, began in 2002 in order to make the Italian Lectionary conform to "Liturgiam Authenticam;' the Congregation for

Divine Worship and the Sacraments' 2001 document on liturgical translations, he said.

Bishop Betori told reporters the changed biblical translations do not necessarily mean rela~ed prayers will be changed. For example, he said, no one has proposed changing the words of the Hail Mary to match the new translation from the Gospel of St. Luke.

In a similar way, the words of the Lord's Prayer recited at Mass will not change automatically to meet the Lectionary's translation of the account in St. Matthew's Gospel in which Jesus teaches his disciples the prayer.

For years, Italian Catholics have debated the point of asking God not to lead them into temptation when God is not the one to tempt people to do wrong.

The new Italian translation of the Scripture passage resolved the debate by using the phrase "do not abandon us to temptation."

Bishop Betori said a corresponding change to the Our Father at Mass would be discussed by the

$ The Anchor

Italian bishops in a separate process of retranslating the Mass prayers.

In redoing the Scripture translations, he said, the bishops examined critical editions of the original Scriptures in Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek.

"We tried to recover a greater adherence to the tone and style of the original languages, aiming for a translation that would be communicative and understandable, but also more literal," as the 2001 Vatican document requested.

But the Italian bishops have done more than prepare a new translation, he said; they have attempted to produce a volume that continues an ancient artistic tradition as well. Italian artists, including some who are not Catholic, have donated close to 200 drawings and paintings designed exclusively for use in the Lectionary, Bishop Betori said.

The lamb on the cover of the three lectionaries for Sundays and feast days was designed by Mimmo Paladino, a neo-expressionist painter and sculptor.

OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF FALL RIVER Vol. 51, No. 45

Member: Catholic Press Association. Catholic News Service

Published weekly except for two weeks in the summer and the week after Christmas by the Catholic Press of the Diocese of Fall River, 887 Highland Avenue, Fall River, MA 02720, Telephone 508·675·7151 - FAX 508·675·7048. email: theanchor@anchornews.org. Subscription price by mail. postpaid $14.00 per year.

Send address changes to P.O. Box 7, Fall River. MA, call or use email address PUBLISHER - Most Reverend George W. Coleman EXECUTIVE EDITOR Father Roger J. Landry fatherrogerlandry@anchomews.org EDITOR David B. Jollvet davejolivet@snchornews.org NEWS EDITOR Deacon James N. Dunbar jlmdunbsr@snchornews.org REPORTER Matt McDonald mattmcdonald@anchornews.org REPORTER Brian Kennedy brlankennedy@anchomews.org OFFICE MANAGER Mary Chase marychase@anchornews.org Send Letters to the Editor to: fatherrogerlandry@anchomcws.org POSTMASTERS send address changes to The Anchor, P.O. Box 7, Fall River, MA 02722. nIB ANCHOR (USPS·545.mo) Periodical Postage Paid at Fall River. Mass.

NOVEMBER

23, 2007

$) THE INTERNATIONAL CHURCH , II II

Pope tell~s Portuguese bishops Church ~ustinvolve laypeople

HOLY GROUND - People pray at the Massabielle grotto in Lourdes, France. where Mary appeared to St. Bernadette Soubirous in 1858. The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Benedict XVI will visit Lourdes in 2008 to mark the 150th anniversary of the Marian apparitions. This is a 1999 file photo. ' (CNS photo/Corinne Simon, Catholic Press Photo)'

Officials confirm papal visit to Lourdes to mark Marian apparitions VATICAN CITY (CNS) - Offi- be a significant moment for them. cials confirmed Pope Benedict XVI He said Cardinal Ivan Dias, presiwill visit the Shrine of Our Lady of dent oftheVatican's Congregation for Lourdes in France to mark the 150th the Evangelization of Peoples, will anniversary ofthe Marian apparitions lead celebrations when the jubilee there, but said the exact time period of kicks offin Lourdes December 8, the the papal visit was not 'yet known. feast of the immaculate Conception.

Bishop Jacques Perrier of Tarbes TheFrench bishop added there also and Lourdes, who is in charge of the "might be a televised link" with the preparations for the jubilee celebra- pope as he visits a Marian monument tions, said the papal joumey was "a in the center of Rome the same day. sure thing."

Highlights of the Dec. 8, 2007, to The bishop and others spoke to Dec. 8, 2008, jubilee in Lourdes injoumalists during aNovember 13 Vati- elude: can press conference, unveiling details - An international MarianI of the yearlong jubilee celebrations.

Mario~~conferenceS~temb~~ Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, 8 organized by Rome's futernational head of the Vatican press office, said Pontifical Marian Academy. the papal trip "most probably" would - A Christian rock and pop muhave Lourdes as its sole destination sic festival for young people that will and for now would not include stops coincide with World Youth Day celin other cities. .ebrations in Sydney,Australia, July 15' Bishop Perrier said he is often 20. asked if the pope will arrive at Lour- An international peace pilgrim~ des for one of the "significant mo- age that will bring together people ments" for the church, such as Febru- from nations once at war. ary II, the day the apparitions began - A joint Catholic-Anglican piland also the feast ofOurLady ofLour- grimage. des, or August IS, the feast of the As- An interreligious pilgrimage of sumption.

Catholic and Hindu ethnic Tamil Bishop Perrier said whatever date peoples. the pope decides for his' visit would - A weeklong pilgrimage for

VATICAN CITY (CNS)-Where Mass attendance is fallink and parish involvement is dropping, Church leaders must find ways to reaffirm that the II Church is acommunity where the conI tribution of each person is important, Pope Benedict XVI said)1 But, he told the Porti!tguese bishops, it is essential to keeJ! in mind that unity in the Church musi flow first of all from members' unitylrth Christ. ''This does not mean we should not discuss proper order witrnh the Church and the allocation of resPonsibilities; there will always be imtialances that require correction," he saitl.

"Butthese II issues cannot distract us from the real II mission ofthe Church, which is not to speak of itself, but of aJist."

Pope Benedict madellhis remarks November 10 in a meetihg that coneluded the Portuguese bishops' "ad ' . " VISIts, .. rnade everY I five years tImina II' . so bishops can report on lithe status of their dioceses.

The pope said that in situation in

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which many Christians no longer participate in the life of the Church there is a real need ''to build paths of com. munion."

"We must c!lange the organizational style of the Portuguese Church community and the mentality of its members to have a Church in rhythm with the Second Vatican Council:' he said.

The council insisted that while there are distinct roles within the Church all of the baptized "are co-responsible for the growth of the Church:' he said.

Pope Benedict asked the bishops to proceed with theirefforts to increase lay participation in the Church, but also asked them to keep in mind the "potential pitfalls, such as 'horizontalism,''' which focuses more on relationships among people than between peopIe an. d God,and a confusion between the roles of the ordained minister and those of committed laypeople.

.Paki~tani bishop expresses hope ~()r return to democracy

Gypsies and other itinerant travelers with space for campers; trailers and tents.

Beginning Feb. II, 1858, Mary appeared on 18 different occasions in a cave near Lourdes to St. Bernadette Soubirous, a poor I~year-old girl.

Bishop Perriersaid the apparitions still "nourish the Church" today. He said Lourdes continues to contribute to the mission of the Church and spread the Gospel in the world.

Funherdetails ofthe 150th anniversary ofthe MariJm apparitions can be found online at: http:// www.lourdes2008.com/.

LAHORE, Pakistan (CNS) - A Pakistani bishop express&! hope for a return to democracy ahd said the country's bishops will di~uss the crisis at their upcoming m~ting.

Bishop Max Rodrigues of news Hyderabad told theAsianJChurch I agency DCA News,''We that the prevailing setback is sh4rt-lived and that democracy returns."]I. Thebishopsaidthem~mbersofthe Pakistan Catholic Bishqps' Conference plan to review the ongoing crisis at their meeting today. I "Meanwhile, the chkches have been directed to pray fo~ the country

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and ·its solidarity:' he said.

Gen. Pervez Musharraf, Pakistan's president, declared a state of emergency November 3, arresting protesters and opponents and banning large gatherings.

The bishops' National Commission for Justice and Peace said in a statement: ''The growing militancy, extremism and terrorist attacks were cited as a reason for imposing emergency in the country'but no attention has been given to it so far. On the contrary, the government is making every effort to halt the voice of the civil society."

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"Bishops overwhelmingly approve politics docu.ment, bulletin insert BALTIMORE (CNS) - In what the related, but different, moral obliseveral bishops 9alled "a watershed gation to serve 'the least ofthese,' seek moment" for the U.S. Conference of justice and pursue peace."

Catholic Bishops, the full body ofbishIn deciding how to vote, "there may ops overWhe~gly approved adocu- be times when a Catholic who rejects ment intended to help Catholic voters a candidate's unacceptable position fonn their consciences on a variety of . may decide to vote for that candidate for other morally grave reasons," the issues before the 2008 elections.

"Fonning Consciences for Faith- longer document says. "Voting in this ful Citizenship: A Call to Political way would be pennissible only for Responsibility From the Catholic truly grave moral interests, not to adBishops ofthe United States" was ap- vance narrow interests, or partisan proved by a 221-4 vote November 14, preferences or to ignore a fundamenthe last public day of the November . tal moral evil." " The bishops admit that "Catholics 12-15 USCCB fall general assembly may feel politically disenfranchised, in Baltimore.

Prepared by a task force made up sensing that no party and too few canof the chainnel) of seven USCCB didates fully share the Church's comcommittees, the document underwent prehensive commitment to the dignity more than a dozen drafts and w~ still of the human person." ''As Catholics, we should be guided heavily amended during the meeting more by our moral convictions than and immediately before the vote.

The longer document rejects poli- by our attachment to a political party tics based on "powerful interests, par- or interest group," the document says. tisan attacks, sound bites and media "When necessary, our participation hype" and calls instead for "a differ- should help transfonn the party to which we belong; we should not let ent kind of political engagement."

That engagement must be "shaped the party transfonn us in such a way by the moral convictions of well- that we neglect or deny fundamental fonned consciences and focused on moral truths." the dignity of every human being, the The document does not address a pursuit of the common good and the topic raised during the 2004 presidenprotection of the weak and vulner- tiai campaign - giving Communion able;' it says. to Catholic politicians who support Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio of keeping abortion legal. Archbishop Brooklyn, N.Y., introduced the docu- Raymond L. Burke of St. Louis alments November 12, saying that he ready has said he would not give Comspoke not only as chainnan ofthe bish- munion to fonner New York Mayor ops' Committee on Domestic Policy Rudy Giuliani, who is, according to but as "the leader ofan unprecedented, recent polls, the leading Republican extensive and some would say end- presidential candidate.

At the meeting's closing news conless consultation" among seven ference one reporter asked Bishop USCCB committees. ''This document is a summary of DiMarzio if he t:hought Catholics who Catholic teaching; it is not a voter belong to the Democratic Party guide," Bishop DiMarzio said shortly which is on record as supporting lebefore the vote. "It calls us as bishops galized abortion - were "listening to to help fonn consciences for political the voice of the bishops" on political life, not tell people how to vote." matters.

"Catholics who are practicing the But he also said "Faithful Citizenship" clearly distinguishes between faith and coming to the Eucharist each "intrinsic evils like abortion and rac- week are listening to our voice and ism that can never be supported and getting our message:' he said.

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SHAMEFUL SHOWING - Phil De Andrade, an aide to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., sits in a row of empty chairs reserved for federal lawmakers who were invited to an October 27 conference on global poverty at S1. Mary's Cathedral in San Francisco. George Wesolek, director of the Office of Public Policy and Social Concerns for the San Francisco Archdiocese, has written to Pelosi, U.S. Democratic Sens. Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein of California and three other Bay Area federal lawmakers to voice "deep disappointment" that none of them attended the conference.' (CNS photo/ Rick DelVecchio, Catholic San Francisco)

Federal lawmakers chided for not attending global poverty conference . . ,

By RICK DELVECCHIO CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

attended was appreciated but noted his responses w~re not that pertinent to the legislation on global SAN FRANCISCO - A San poverty.

Francisco Catholic official wrote letters in early November to The speak.ers and conference California's two U.S. Democratic organizers said the legislative goals senators, Barbara Boxer and Dianne are steps in a long-term campaign Feinstein, House. Speaker Nancy to dramatically increase U.S. spendPelosi, D-Calif., and three other feding on anti-poverty measures overseas. The United States must spend erallawmakers to voice "deep d~s足 seven-tenths of one percent of its appointment" that norie of them atnational income to relieve the tended a conference on glodirest poverty in the developbal poverty held at St. Mary's Cathedral.

"Perhaps, this lack ofparticipation ing world, up from the current George Wesolek, director is a brief glimpse into why congres- two-tenths of one percent, of the Office of Public Policy sional job approval is at an all-time they said.

The higher spending is and Social Concerns for the low," he added. needed to meet all eight MilArchdiocese of San Franlennium Development goals . cisco, ~aid he could only surset by the United States and 190 mise "elimination of global pov- time low," he added.

He made the comments in let- other U.N. member states in 2000. erty" is not a priority for them.

The Point7Now! Action Confer- ters to U.S. Democratic Reps. Tom The goals, if implemented as ence Oct. 27 was designed to urge Lan.tos, Anna Eshoo and Lynn planned by 2015, would have their federal lawmakers to support leg- Woolsey. Wesolek wrote similar let- greatest impact on the 1.1 billion islation aimed at implementing a ters to Pelosi and the two senators. people who suffer the world's most "An interfaith delegation of extreme poverty, living on less than U.N. mandate to' reduce the most dire poverty in the developing clergy and constituents would like a dollar a day., "We intend to keep our committo meet with you to find ways that world by 2015.

Pelosi had a representative at the we can work together toward keep- ment to the poorest of the poor of meeting. In replies to Wesolek some ing America's promise to make the world" and to continue to work of the other lawmakers said their poverty history for the 1.1 billion toward a commitment of sevenaides had talked with conference of the poorest inhabitants of the tenths of one percent of U.S. economic output to combat global povplanet," he wrote. planners prior to the event.

Lantos and Eshoo sent personal erty, Wesolek told Catholic San The conference focused on foreign aid and trade refonns and a replies stating their support for the Francisco, the archdiocesan newsdebt-relief measure - alItopics of conference's legislative goals and paper.

The legislative conference was bills pending in the current congres- notiJ;lg that members of their staffs sional session and requiring urgent had met with conference represen- organized by an interfaith delegaaction, according to conference tatives in September. Lantos ob- tion led by Archbishop George H. . jected to the letter and blamed com- Neiderauer; Bishop Marc Andrus of speakers. problems in the Episcopal Diocese of Califor.The speakers said the legislation munication nia; and Rabbi Stephen Pearce, sewould have an immediate impact on archdiocesan public policy office.

Wesolek said the fact Pelosi's nior rabbi at Congregation Emanuth"e extreme poor by boosting spending on health and education, . representative, Phil De Andrade, El in San Francisco. which they said would lessen suffering from preventable diseases such as malaria and mv/AIDs. "On behalf of the over 500 participl!Ilts at the event, I can say that there was deep disappointment because of your lack of participation," wrote Wesolek.

"Perhaps, this lack of participation is a brief glimpse into why congressional job approval is at all-

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NOVEMBER

23,2007

$ THE CHURCH IN THE U.S. $

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MONITORING THE VOTE - Bishops' staff members wait for results on a monitor after a vote during the U.S. bishops' annual路fall meeting in Baltimore November 14. (eNS photo/Bob Roller)

Archbishop Wuerl hopes pope's visit will energize people's faith'

By JERRY FILTEAU

He said he and other Church officials have been laying the groundWASHINGTON - Washington work for the visit since August, but Archbishop Donald W. Wuerl said he did not kriow for sure if it would he hopes Pope Benedict XVI's visit happen until the nuncio officially to the nation's capital next spring announced the planned papal itinwill deepen the faith of Catholics erary. in the Archdiocese of Washington The pope is to arrive in Washand give them new energy. ington April 15 ~nd meet with "Personally, I'm thrilled that he President George W. Bush at the will be here and be with all of us," White House the following day, he said. which also happens to be the "There is so much renewal go- pope's 81 st birthday. That aftering on, among our young people, noon he will address the U.S. bishin the w~ole Church," he said, "His ops - probably at the Basilica of visit will be a reaffirmation of that. the National Shrine of the ImBut also I'd like to think it's going maculate Conception, Archbishop to be a way ofjust re-energizing us." Wuerl said.

He said he believes the emphaAfter the stadium Mass April 17, sis ofthe pope's trip will be "on the the pope is to meet with heads of renewal of the faith life of the Catholic colleges and universities Church." and diocesan education leaders at Archbishop Pietro Sambi, apos- The Catholic University of tolic nuncio to the United States, America, followed by a meeting announced the pontiff's April 15- with leaders of non-Christian faiths 20 visit to Washington and New at the Pope John Paul II Cultural York - billed as an "Apostolic Visit Center. to the United States ofAmerica and During a midday press conferto the Seat of the United Nations" ence, Archbishop Wuerl said that in - at the November 12 opening ses- visiting the nation's capital "the sion of the U.S. bishops' national Holy Father is attempting to speak meeting in Baltimore. to the Church throughout the Pope Benedict's main public United States." event in Washington wilfbe a Mass He said that when it was first anApril 17 at the Washington Nation- . nounced last summer that the pop~ als' new baseball stadium. was considering a U.N. visit next Shortly after the nuncio spoke, spring "it seemed appropriate to inArchbishop'Wuerl told the Catho- vite him to Washington." lic Standard, newspaper of the The fact that the pope would Washington Archdiocese, that the make Washington his first stop visit "will be an opportunity for all "says to me that he sees this as a of us in the Church in Washington center representing the entire to show the Holy Father our affec- Church in the United States," he tion, to show him our profound loy- said. . alty, but also to demonstrate to him Besides being the home of how alive the Church in Washing- Catholic University and the national ton is, how profoundly faith-filled shrine, Washington is the location the Church is." of the U.S. Conference of Catholic CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

Bishops' headquarters.

He added that the pope's plan to address representatives of Catholic higher education highlights the importance of faith formation and Catholic education in the life of the Church.

The archbishop said preparing for the papal visit "will be a lot of work, but it'll be joyful work, because we'll be welcoming the head of the Church. We'll be welcoming the successor to Peter, and he will come here to say to all of us, 'Be strong in your faith .... Be a light of the Gospel to this country.'"

"I think that we have to make sure that people - especially our young people - get a chance to see him," he added. "That's going to take some planning on our part, but I think the principle we want to work from is (that) we want to make sure the coming generation of Catholic young people get a chance to see him."

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WASHINGTON (CNS) - Precious Blood Sister Janice Bader has been named director o~ the National Religious Retirement Qffice.

She had been the office's interim director since the death in July of Precious Blood Sister Andree Fries, who had been director sincei 2000.

Sister Janice's appointment, which took effect Octo~r 31, was announced November 5. I The National Religio~ Retirement Office is the coordinating body that oversees the annual Retirement Fund for Religious collection, designed to reduce the unfunded retirement liability of the nation's religious orders.

Taken up in most U.S.: parishes the second weekend of DeCember, it has proven by far to be the most generous special collection in U.S. Catholic history; this year's collection will be held the weekend of December 8-9.

The office is jointly ~ponsored by the U.S. Conference ofCatholic Bishops, the Leadership Conference of Women Religious, the Conference of Major Superiors of Men and the Counc'il of Major Superiors of , I Women Religious. Thel,general secretary or executive dm1ctor of each group makes up the Management

Board ofthe Commission on Consecrated Life, which oversees the office and chooses the director.

"Sister Janice has the business acumen to oversee a collection which draws in about $30 million annually, the sensitivity to the needs of the tens of thousands of men and women religious around the nation, and the faith to know God will guide her work," said statement by the management board that accompanied the announcement of her appointment.

A member and one-time board member of the National Association of Treasurers of Religious Institutes, Sister Janice was treasurer general of her order, 1987-98.

Sister Janice has a master's degree in business' administration from Southern Illinois University and a bachelor of arts degree from Notre Dame College in St. Louis. She was a member of the St. Louis Conference of Religious Treasurers from 1987 to 1998; its chair, 1995-98; and its secretary, 1991-95.

She was also a member of the Midwest Coalition for Responsible Investment, 1987-98, and a leader on a 1996-98 Habitat for Humanity project.

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NEW RETREA TS .:.

CENTERING PRAYER RETREAT - Nov. 30 - Dec. 2, 2007 Sr. Jeanne Girardin, SSdh. helps us find a detailed understanding of this great prayer method practiced since ~e ancient Christian communities. Through a contemplative pfayer of silence we will bE;! opened to the mystery of God from whom our life emerges at every mof1\ent. Come: Learn a renewed form of prayer! .:.

MARY, WOMAN OF ADVENT HOPE - Dec. 7 - 9,2007 Our retreat team reflects upon Mary who shows the way to a more faithful following of Christ. We will look at Mary as a woman of the Word, a model of compassion, and a guide in prayer. On Saturday. we will celebrate the Mass of the Immaculate Conception : with Bishop Robert McManus, .:.

ICONS!I WINDOWS INTO THE SACRED - April 4 - 6, 2008 Through prayer and gazing upon an icon image, Sr. Jeanne Girardin, SSCh. will speak of the icon as a personal meeting with whom it represents. Come and observe hOW these great payers - icon images are written and find new insight by beholding the holy gaze of this sacred art. All participants using carbon paper will trace the sacred image of a saini to help us ent!!r into the experience of these great prayers.

(Requested Offering for all weekends: $225.00 or give what you Can. Includescomtortable room, program and five meals.)

To J6i'ster or for more information contact:

The Passionists Calvary Retreat Center 59 South Street Shrewsbury MA 01545 508-842-8821 www.calvaryretreat.org

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Restoring the balance At their annual meeting last week in Baltimore, the bishops of the United States received the preliminary findings of an independent, i!I-depth study by the John Jay College of Criminal Justice of the "causes and context" of the . clergy sexual abuse crisis. . One noteworthy finding, according to lead researchers Margaret Smith and Karen Teny, is that ''the idea that there is somethingdistinctive about the Catholic Church that led to the sexual abuse of minors" is mistaken.

They pointed to an extensive seven-month study by the Associated Press of sexual abuse of minors in American public schools, which documented that between 2001-2005. There were more than 1,800 f:aseS in which public school teachers or administrators were disciplined for sexually abusing students. That figure contrasts with the 4,392 sexual abuse allegations lodged against Catholic priests nationwide over the 53-year period between 1950 and 2002.

The Associated Press study also discovered that, in many cases, administrators tried to handle the disputes quietly, working out deals with the parents to allow the teachers to resign their positions without further action. Such agreements enabled the abusive teachers to keep their freedom and their teaching certification, which allowed them to take up jobs in other districts where they were able to continue abusing children. . .

On the one hand, the disclosure that the sexual abuse of minors has proven to be worse quantitatively in public schools than Catholic institutions is no solace to those in the Church. As one bishop remarked during the bishops' meeting, it would be like a doctor telling his patient that his form of malignant cancer is no worse than his hospital roommate's lethal tumors; the magnitude ofthe abuse in public schools does not minimize the evil ofthe abuse within the Church. Those who care about children, moreover, are understandably sickened by the confirmation of high rates of abuse in public schools, since each instance is devastating to its young victim.

On the other hand, the recent revelations about the rate of abuse in public schools - and tfie relative lack of attention given to it compared to the frenzy in Covering clergy sexual abuse- will surely strengthen the case that the Catholic Church has become the red heifer for a much larger social plague.

While Catholics should conduct themselves by higher standards - since Jesus, after all, called them to his standard of love which would distinguish their conduct from others (In 15:13; Mt 5:43-48) - and should expect others to hold .them to the norms of the Gospel, it is not fair for the Church as an institution to be treated by a different legal standard than other institutions. It clearly has been, not only with respect to other churches, but to public institutions, like schools, that also serve the common good.

In several states, for example, there has been a push to suspend the civil statute of limitations to allow enormous lawsuits, but only against private institutions. Civil cases against public school districts, for example, are either not permitted or the damages against ~em are capped. There'.s a good reason for this: legislators recognize that if they did not indemnify public institutions, for example, two things could happen. First, if local governments needed to pay out hundreds of millions of dollars for civil judgments, it would shut them down; all the good that public institutions do - not just in terms of education, but police and fire departments, sanitation, uiilities and so much more---': would be in jeopardy. Secondly, the ones who would be forced ultiritately to pay for the settlements would not be the abusive teachers, but innocent taxpayers, and probably for generations. This would violate not only the typical American principle of fairness, but also the common good. As much as society justly wants to help those who have been harmed through sexual abuse recover, it cannot come with the unlimited risk of crippling institutions that have such an important role in serving the common good. .

Those same just principles of fairness and the common good, however, have not been applied in recent years with respect to the Church. Thejudgments against the Church have been so enormous that five U.S. dioceses have needed to declare bankruptcy, seminaries and other institutions critical to the Church's future and to her present charitable work have had to be sold, and the bill is being paid not by those who were wrongdoers but by the Chwdt as a whole.

Bishop Thomas Paprocki, auxiliary bishop ofChicago, in an October homily for lawyers and judges at a Red Mass in Grand Rapids, Mich., called attention to this inequity in straightforward terms. "While the sexual abuse of minors is a sin that must be addressed by the Church and a crime that must be punished by the criminal justice system ... the current approach of awarding large monetary damages to victims is not only contrary to the purposes of tort liability theory, but also place an excessive burden on the free exercise of religion for Catholics in the United States. ''If such purposes seek to punish wrongdoers and deter wrongful conduct, the settlement or award ofcivil damages is punishing the wrong people, namely, the average parishioner or donor whose financial contributions support the Church but who have no role in the supervision ofclergy. Instead ofsupporting the parishes, religious and charitable works that these donors seek to support through their contributions, these monies are being diverted to pay claimants and their lawyers. Most of the bishops who were negligent in their supervision of clergy who offended 20, 30, 40 or even 50 years ago are long gone. Monetary damages taken from a not-for-profit entity do not punish the wrongdoers, but only serve to constrain the scope of the entity's charitable, religious and educational activities." .

A partial solution, Bishop Paprocki argued, is to restore legal caps against private charities, so that the work of innocent and dedicated lay people, religious, and clergy in favor of the common good cannot be decimated by crippling financial judgments that the wrongdoers of yesteryear will never pay.

There is a need to find the happy medium between the just fulfillment of obligations toward the recovery of a person who has been harmed and protecting the innocent in the Church from having to pay so much for the sins of others that they are no longer able to continue to benefit from and sfiare in the Church's charitable mission in advance of the common good.

Such a balance wisely exists with regard to public institutions. It needs to be reestablished for private ones.

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the living word Amena Begum cries after l1er home was destroyed in a cyclone in Mirzaganj, 193 miles from Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Pope Benedict XVI urged international assistance for Bangladesh, where thousands were killed in one of the worst cyclones in the country 's history November 15. (eNS photo/Rafiqur Rahman, Reuters)

"For how can I bear to see disaster fall on my people?"

(Esther 8:6)

The true servant of t~e crucified King The Solemnity of Christ the Kbg, younger brother's bicycle to crisscross 1ians, emboldened them. The photowhich is celebrated on Sunday, is a the city, doing all of these things and graphs spread so fast as a witness to relatively young feast. Pope Pius XI more. He was eventually identified as Father Pro's faith and Calles' brutalinstituted it in 1925 at the request of a cleric and a warrant was issued for ity that the dictator soon banned their publication and use. bishops and faithful from around the his arrest.

But it was tob late. The following For almost a year he evaded the world: They sought such a feast as a prayerful response to the militant athe- authorities so that he could continue day about 10,000 Mexicans, at the risk ism spreading at the time that was try- his priestly ministrations, but he knew of their lives, accompanied Father ing to repress beliefin Christ and sup- that eventually he would be caught and Pro's body to Dolores Cemetery. The cortege diverted itselfby the dictator's press Christian presence in the world. killed. home so that they could be sure he saw .

Just eight years earlier, Bolshevik He was.

Eighty-one years ago today, Nov. it, and as they processed, the Mexicommunism began to show its evil head. The Communists - who were 23, 1927, Father Pro was arrested and cans echoed the message Father Pro experts in the art of lying - clairned sentenced to death by the Mexican dic- preached so effectively in life and in death: "Viva Cristo Rey! Viva Cristo to be working to ''free'' people from tator, Plutarco Calles, without a trial.

Calles wanted to use Father Pro as Rey!" the "opium".of belief in God, which These ordinary Christians, and the they said was only a means used by an example, to teach other clandestine others to keep them subjugated. Since Catholic priests and the Catholic faith- valiant priest they had come to honor, were all giving witness to a there really was no God, they truth that no amount offiring insisted, the churches and r;b-.-'1-r;-'-~-. - - - - - - - - squads could kill: the truth that there is a God, that that God sent his Son into the' pursuit of political power. ,.", the~;Oeep' World, and that he, their creTo counteract these lies ~ i) . and proclaim the fact of (~~'%l:~\tr":::-Al . t.>~.;:?; ator and redeemer, is Lord and King of all.

Christ's kingship in the Uni,'C: By ffatfier~?: 01:;\ Calles and the members of . verse and the true spiritual -Roger J. LandrY _ airns of that kingdom, the 1.-..... his ruling party tri~ t6 console themselves with the Holy Father proclaimed this ful who sought their pastoral care what thought that such an acclamation was feast.

A dramatic illustration of why this would happen to those who continued absurd. To their Qwn mind, the very was so needed came just'two years to try to practice the Catholic faith in fact that they were able with impunity later in a place relatively close to home, defiance ofthe government's dictates. to do whatever they wanted to Christ's So Calles sent out his 'henchmen to followers was proof that Christ was Mexico City: In 1910, there was a revolution in . assemble a crowd and photograph the no king. Just as Christ was taught a lesson by the Romans who gave him Mexico against the "old order" and event.

They crowd gathered and Father a crown of thorns and a cruciform one of the fin!t results was anti-clerical persecution based on a militant Pro was brought before the firing .. throne, so they thought they were atheism. Religious orders were squad. He was asked if he had any teaching his followers the same lesbanned. Many priests, brothers and dying wishes. He requested two min- son, and proving that Christ was powerless to defend his subjects. nuns needed to flee across the border utes to pray.

After he was done, he stood up and Butthey were wrong. Calles, his into the United States. Churches, monasteries, convents and other religious said to those who were about to end supporters and their movement are buildings were confiscated by the his life, "May God have mercy on you. now long dead. The disciples of the 짜ay God bless you." . crucified King of the Jews, howState.

Then he turned to the one who ever, will be convening in great To survive, the Church needed to go underground. Many Catholic would give him his life back and said, numbers this Sunday to give him priests, at the risk oftheir lives, donned "You know, 0 Lord, that I am inno- homage. While Calles has taken up various disguises to try to bring the cent. With all my heart I forgive my his place with Stalin, Hitler, Pol Pot and the other wicked dictators of the sacraments to those who were dying, eneniies."

As the firing squad raised their 20th century, Father Miguel Pro to celebrate Mass and hear confessions in people's homes, to teach the rifles and took aim, in a firm, clear was enrolled in the eternal hall of catechism to young children, to attend voice, Father Pro said his last words, fame, beatified by Pope John Paul to the needs of the poor and destitute, "Viva. Cristo Rey!" - "Long live II in 1988. .

Christ the King indeed lives. So and to care for the many orphans the Christ the King!"

"Viva Cristo Rey!" Those words does Father Miguel Pro. And so do government was making by the sum-. began to echo throughout Mexico. The Christ's true followers. mary executions of parents.

Father Landry is pastor of St. One 36-year-old Jesuit priest photographs of the execution, taken named Father Miguel Pro used his at Calles' instigation to terrify Chris- Anthony's Parish in New Bedford.

=~;:!ou:tf:e:~ ~(Putti~g. I~t9

$ The Anchor $ Confu.cianism and Christianity

NOVEMBER

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enemies or that we are called to Hardly any moral advice of share in God's own love for our Confucius needs to be discarded fellowman. when one embraces Christianity; in Consider, too, the high value .fact, almost all of it should be both Confucianism and Christianity followed. Perhaps no other nonChristian moral teaching comes so close to what the Catholic tradition calls the "natural moral law," that is, the rule of right and wrong, of good and evil, rooted in human nature, ',By Father . which every mature ThOmas M. Kocik person, regardless of religious belief or lack place on friendship (as exemplified thereof, can know by use of his by the Chiin-tzu, "superior man").

God-given reason.

Christianity elevates friendship to a .

If there are obvious differences between Christian and Confucian supernatural level, realized in the morality, it is largely because the Christian virtue of charity: by new "law of love" proclaimed in having Christ's friendship, a ' the Gospels fulfils and perfects the Christian can love all people as Christ does, even if he is not natural moral law. Confucius did not teach as Jesus did, on the other understood and loved by them. hand, that we should love our Moreover, a Christian not only.

Tlie Fullness -of the Truth

makes friends for himself but also causes others to be friends with each other. Our natural capacity for friendship is greatly enlarged by our faith in and union with Jesus Christ.

For Confucius, man's highest goal was the cultivation of len, "full humanity." Jen occupies the same position in Confucianism as charity does in Christianity: it is the queen of all virtues and the bond of perfection. To attain Jen requires the conscientious performance of one's duties toward heaven (T'ien), toward oneself, and toward others. Filial piety loyalty and devotion to one's parents, elderly relatives, and ancestors - is, for Confucius, Jen's starting point.

In later Confucian tradition, however, filial piety so dominated

A high wire 'act Someone call Ringling Brothers disregard the preceding'graphs. they lived up to their end of their because I'm performing quite a This is my very first multiplebeefy contracts? I don't think so. tightrope act right now -:- and I have choice column. May it be my last.

Will Mike Lowell perform like this my wife to blame - sort of.

Oh dear, I wasn't meant for year four years down the road? I You see I just finished this week's circus life. don't think so. column. It had to be in a day early (Original beginning) I'm tired I wonder if there will ever come a because of the Thanksgiving of getting up every morning, day when this scenario unfolds. holiday. With great diligence, I checking the sports pages to see if "St. Peter, what are you doing completed the task. I breathed my Mike Lowell signed with the Sox, here? I feel fine. I'm still a baseball weekly "done for another week:' stud.". and if not what the latest scoop is. It sigh of relief. My topic, YOU'll soon seems that every Website I investi"Right, but you were no match learn, is about baseball contract gate has a different slant on the for the bus you stepped in front of." negotiations. I wanted to key on story: the Sox aren't flexible "Oh, right."

Mike Lowell, since he's on many a enough; Lowell isn't flexible ''Well my friend. You made it.

Red Sox fan's wish list. I had to . enough; Mike has several offers for Welcome to heaven. Let me show express my disappointment you to your eternal home." at Lowell's failure to accept "Is this it? I know there a three-year deal with the are many rooms in the Bosox. I felt Mikey was Father's house, but I was falling into the same "me, .expecting a little better than me, me" mold as some thi s." former Red Sox fan "Nope, this is it." favorites.

"I want to talk to the big Truth be told, I let Mike Guy. I think I deserve more. have it - until the phone I'd like to 'negotiate' with rang moments ago. It was Denise four years; teams have denied him." asking me if I had heard that the Sox offering Mike four years. Mike "Not going to happen. God and Lowell were going to sign a Lowell is a great guy. Mike Lowell doesn't 'negotiate.' Everything that . contract this afternoon. is greedy. comes from the Father is done out of What????! !!!!!! I explained what!

The acrid smoke emanating from love for you. Frankly, none of us had just done, and she found my the hot stove is becoming increasdeserve anything we have." predicament quite Comical. I ingly annoying each year. ."I'm not going in yet. I'm going thanked my spouse for the info and We went through this with Pedro, to stay here until I can talk to the . told her I had to make some changes Johnny Demon (sic, or sick) and Boss. I'll make him listen." to my column due at press very now everybody'S nice guy, Mike "Suit yourself. I'm busy with shortly.

Lowell. other people. Just stay out of the I jumped online to check out the In all three ins~ces, the athletes way." . validity of what she heard. Nothing claimed they loved Boston and "Say, isn't that my agent heading concrete. I'm now minutes away wanted to stay. In all three instances this way. What a guy. I didn't even from deadline. I'm up there without they wanted a four-year deal- in call him, and he's here to take my a net. essence, handcuffing the Sox with case."

So, here's the deal. Should Mike millions of dollars in salary commit"Right this way. We had another Lowell in fact sign a three-year ments as their careers begin to wane. . room for you, a bit more isolated, contract with the Boston Red Sox, Sometimes I think these guys but this room just opened up. That please, dear readers, ignore any ML don't believe they will ever get old guy over there turned it down. references in the following para- too old to playa game for a Speaking of him, excuse me sir, graphs. He's a great guy who was living. But if that were entirely the you're going to have to leave here." . true to his word to stay in Red Sox case, they wouldn't care about the "Where will I goT' Nation. I tip my cap to Mike and length of a contract ... just the "Well, there's a place down apologize for doubting his integrity. bottom line. there that will be delighted to sign If the rumors were false, kindly Look at Pedro and Demon. Have you to a long-term deal."

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Chinese culture that it for sacrament of matrimony, where many people the very rAeaning of human love and family solidarity life. It is on this point iliat Chrisare ordered to the supernatural love tianity provides a neceskary of God and perfected by his grace. corrective. Filial piety tJecomes .

China's ancient system of I idOlatrous if it is not offset by the dynastic rule was based on the idea of human brother~60d under Confucian system of values. So God's Fatherhood. Theiiteachings of when the last dynasty, the Ch'ing, Christ and St. Paul bring filial duty fell in 1911, Confucianism soon back into balance (LukeI 14:26, for lost its place as the dominant example). Christians, while philosophy. After the Communist likewise emphasizing fJrnnyrevolution of 1949, the government tried to erase whatever remained of centered living, do not, :br should not, make a god of the family head, Confucian thought from the or allow familial relatiohs to nation's consciousness. But much C.H. Wu degenerate into what J~hn has changed in recent years. In the I, (1899-1986), an emineilt Chinese wake of the complete collapse of convert to Catholicism, i:described as Communist ideology and the the "detestable c1annislIDess from resulting lack of any strong moral II which China has suffen~d so much." foundation capable of filling the Enlightened by Christ, ~lial piety .is godlike role that Communism once I not the central theme o拢I' Jen but claimed for itself, officials have rather its first stage, andII Jen itself is been encouraging the resurgence of made subordinate to thatI higher .

Confucian values. filial piety which we owe to God This bodes well for the cause of Christ. As Bishop Fulton Sheen the father of all.

II Although the Confucian concept said, "The distance from nature to II of Jen adds nothing to <!Christianity, grace, .from sin to salvation, from . it can serve as a remindbr to doubt to faith, is the same for a modem Christians of ~b Fourth Western soul as for the Eastern Commandment, which,l! as St. Paul soul; for only Christ's grace can . bridge the distance." From this pointed out, is the first dOrlunandperspective, Confucianism can be ment with a promise (E~h. 6:2-3).

The extreme individualism that for China just as good a prelude I characterizes modern.Western to the fullness of truth as was Greco-Roman culture for the culture has eclipsed this: important precept in the lives of rrlany West. .

Christians.

Father Kocik is a parochial An old Confucian s~bolar's vicar at Santo Christo Parish in reaction to.the Catl1o~4ved~g o~ , Fall1liver.

John Wu's eldest son provides a . memor001e testunony to Montie Plumbing ConfuCianism's ~apacitY for Christ. &. Heating Co. He was so ~eeply imp~ssed by the Over 35 Years solemnities of the nuptial Mass that of Satisfied Services he remarked, ''This is e,lactly what Reg. Master Plumber 7023 our old marital rites had foreshadJOSEPH RAPOSA, JR. I owed!" In other words, the seeds JEFFERSON STREET 432 that Confucianism had Jown came FALL RIVER 508-675-7496 into flowering in the C楼stian II I:

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'This day you will be with me in -paradise' This year the Gospel for the Solemnity of Christ the King is about the crucifixion. One of t4e reasons for this selection is that the sign placed on the cross ceclares that Jesus is the King of the Jews. But it is il the dialogue that takesplace between Jesus and th~ two thieves that we learn more about the qmJities of that kingship. It is in this act of total giving of self that we see the depth of the love this king has for us.

One part of the crucifixion story is the rejection of Christ by one thief and a request for mercy from the other. Let us focus on the second one because it is in his offering of mercy and forgiveness that we begin

to appreciate the qualities of Christ who is our king. _ .The Gospel story of the repentant thief is meant to be a message of hope - a message that forgiveness and change is always possible. It is a message that compassion is at the heart of Jesus' teaching.

That is a great message to hear: despite the sins we commit, the mistakes

that, with God, all things are possible and, with God, we can change for the good.

A missionary in the Pacific tells the story of a woman coming to his hut

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that we make, we can always change. We can "always be assured of God's compassion if we but ask for it.

Change is never easy.

We get ina rut and it is often hard to break out of it. But we need to believe

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with her hapds cupped with sand. She told the missionary that her sins were as numerous as the sand on the shore and did not know how she could ever be forgive!l: The missionary . told her to go back to the

shore and make a big pile of sand on the ocean's edge and then watch the waves make the pile disappear.

That, he said, is like the mercy of God. No matter what, God can make our mountain of sins disappear if we but seek his mercy.

The Solemnity of Christ the King is a reminder that this king is always ready to forgive if we but recognize the need we have to be forgiven.

We are reminded that God never abandons us, even when death stares us in the face as it did the repentant thief.

Perhaps in our own lives we could seek the grace to

imitate this king. Who is it that I might forgive?

Someone in my family?

Someone at work? At school?

As the Church's year draws to a close with this feast we start a "new year" next week with the first Sunday of Advent. Why not make a few Church New Year's resolutions: to change where we need to and to offer forgiveness to those who have hurt us.

What better way to celebrate the feast of our king?

M sgr. H oye was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Fall River in 1972 and is currently the pastor of the Parish of Christ the King in Mashpee.

Upctming Daily Readings: Sat. Nov. 24,1 Me 6:1-13; Ps 9:2-4,6,16b,19; Lk20:21-40. Sun. Nov. 25, Our Lord Jesus Christ the King, 2 Sm 5:1-3; Ps 122:1-5; Col1:12-20; Lk 23:35-45. Mon. Nov. 26, On 1:1-6,8-20; Dn 3:52-56; Lk21:1-4. TOe. Nov. 27, On 2:31..45; Dn 3:57-61; Ltc 21:5~11. Wed. Nov. 28, On 5:1-6,13-14,16-17,23-28; Dn 3:62-67; Lk 21:12-19. Thu. Nov. 29, Dn 6:12-28; On 3:68-74; Lk 21:20-28. Fri. Nov. 30, Rom 10:9~18; PS 19:2-5; Mt 4:18-22.

Civility, charity, and truth-telling regret that the recent "Catholic Thoughtful Americans across the spectrum of political Call to Observe Civility in Public Debate," issued at a opinion are rightly concerned press conference in Washingabout the degree to which our ton on November 6, should national politics has degenermisconstrue civility ated into the manipulation of consumer desires and passions, in such a way as to set civility against the often by the seductions of the charity we owe the electronic media. That those manipulations can have a nasty "other" in the form of truth-telling. edge to them is just as obviThe money paraous, and just as deplorable.

Christian faith should bring the graph in the "Catholic Call to Civility" reads leavens of reason and civility as follows: to public life, for Christian "As lay Catholics we should faith teaches us that the not exhort the Church to "other," including the politicondemn our political oppocally "other," is a human person possessed of reason and nents by publicly denying them holy Communion based deserving of respect.

All the more reason, then, to on public dissent from Church The Franciscans Immaculate Conception Province (OFM) VoCation Director: Br. Charles Gingerich, ofm Email: Charles848@aol.com Website: WWW.FRANCISCANVOC.ORG 1-800-521-5442 (days) 1-888-521-5442 (evenings) 978-863-0042 978-863-0041 (evenings only) FAX: 978-863-0172 USA 459 River Road Andover, MA 01810-4213

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teachings. An individual's fitness to receive communion is his or her personal responsibility. And it is a bishop's responsibility to set for his

diocese the guidelines for administering Communion."

Here, I fear, is a host of confusions presenting itself as a call for civility.

Was it uncivil to remind _the public that Senator John Kerry, during his 2004 campaign, misrepresented the Catholic Pro-Life argument as somehow sectarian, when in fact the Church's defense of the dignity of human life from conception until natural death is based on first principles of justice that can be known by anyone willing to work through an argument? Is it uncivil to point out that Catholic politicians of both major parties continue to misrepresent the character and source of Catholic ProLife conviction? I don't think so. . Is it uncivil to ask our bishops, with the respect due

the fullness of holy orders, to exercise the singular responsibility they bear for safeguarding the integrity of the Church's sacraments - even if doing so means bringing upon themselves the opprobrium of a hostile secular press? I don't think so.

Is it uncivil to point out to fellow Catholics that they are putting their souls in peril when they willfully ignore the first principles of justice, or when they ignore the Church's two millenniumlong teaching on worthiness to receive holy Communion? Or is such truth-telling an exercise in fraternal charity - indeed, a fraternal responsibility?

Is it uncivil for Catholics to remind each other that there is a hierarchy of issues in the application of Catholic social doctrine to American public life, and that the life issues, precisely because they engage first principles of justice, must be given priority in evaluating a candidate's fitness for public office? Is it uncivil - or is it a necessary act of charity in the form of trutq-telling - for Catholic constituents to remind Catholic legislators that they cannot be given a moral or political pass on the life issues because

they agree with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops on the minimum wage, or health care, or . immigration law reform?

The first thing we owe our fellow-citizens is the truth as we understand it, for truthtelling in vigorous public exchange is democracy's lifeblood. America is a proposition country, and one important index of the health of our republic is the degree to which the proposition - that all human beings are created equal and deserve the equal protection of the laws - is received by our people and given public effect by our legislators. That is why the life issues are today's premier civil rights issues. When fellowCatholics who are legislators fail to understa~d this, it is not uncivil to call them to reconsider, privately if possible, publicly if necessary. It is a necessary act of fraternal charity.

By all means, let us be civil in making arguments. But civility must not be confused with pusillanimity nor set against the imperative of speaking truth to power: calmly, clearly, and persistently.

George Weigel is a senior fellow of the Ethics and Public Policy Center in Washington, D.C.

I

NOVEMBER

,

23, 2007

The Anchor ,

Now what?

Wednesday 14 November 2007 - Homeport on Three Mile River, The Dightons-Birth anniversary o/Secretary o/State Condoleezza Rice (1954) I washed ashore on the banks of Three Mile River in July.

We are now half-way through November.

During this time, I've been looking and trying to see.

I've been listening and trying to hear. What is the parish history? What are the organizations of the parish and who is in charge? What are the hopes of the people? What do parishioners need to accomplish their mission and goals? How might I help them realize at least some of their dreams?

Mass attendance is one barom-

eter of the vibrancy of a parish. I've been seeing increases in Mass attendance, for whatever reason.

When there is a special event, like a Family Mass for example, we are at capacity. We have lots of young

families with children. The people here, in their report at the end of the Diocesan Pastoral Planning Process, Phase One, identified the involvement of children and young people in parish life as a high

priority for them. Let's do it.

Diane Moschella has volunteered to start a children's choira very good thing since in that same report parishioners also gave high priority to liturgical music (the proverbial two birds with one stone). There is also an adult choir in formation.

I see a healthy mix of groups and organizations in the parish. Miracle of miracles, Sister Judith Costa, Religious Formation director, assures me we have sufficient catechists. There's a men's group and a women's group, liturgical ministries, parish.nurses, and a St. Vmcent de Paul Society.

There's a thriving weekly Bingo to which folks come to enjoy them-

In prayer and thanksgiving It was last April when we noticed that our usually playful, seven-year-old cat was showing signs of "slowing down." She would sit quietly, staring off into the distance, but she was not resting or purring as usual.

After a few days we realized that we should take her to the vet as her condition was not improving.

After the cat was given a blood panel, we received a call from the vet on a Friday afternoon. He told us that he had some very sad news and that our cat "was dying." He went on to explain that she was in renal failure, and that her kidneys were "shutting down." Her "numbers" for kidney failure were "off the charts."

As bleak as the news was, he did say that there was a slim chance that she might recover, but she would need treatment immediately and would have to be admitted to a nearby hospital. He also explained that the treatment would be very costly, approximately $1,000 for three-four days of treatment, and that again the chances of saving her were not in our favor.

We were heartbroken as she has been our family pet for many years. It's never easy to make a decision in this situation. My husband and I discussed it and we decided that it might be best if we just let her go, as she seemed to be declining rapidly, and she was not feeling well at all. We made an appointment with the

cations at home.

For about three-four weeks we gave her injections twice a day. Kitty did not like this but she was a good patient. We continued to pray that she . would get well.

After her next blood test the vet called with incredible news. Her numbers had come down to near normal. He said that he was completely amazed by her recovery. He said that he had never seen a cat recover like that before.

Yes, our beloved little Mercedes wanted to - -.....- - - - survive and that's exactly what she did.

-, Her name actually means "mercy."

At Thanksgiving we may find ourselves thankful for our many blessings.

For our savior Jesus Christ and the gift of faith.

For the holy Eucharist and and by then they would know answered prayer. if the cat was responding to For our families and our treatment. loved ones, our spouses and We told many of our especially our children. friends tliat our cat was very For our spiritual commusick and in the hospital. We nity and the friendships that began to receive prayers for we share with others. our furry little friend.

For the gift of health and After three days of intravefor the strength to endure nous fluids and medications, when we are not well. the cat showed some signs of For the gifts of love, of improvement. Her "numbers" hope and of peace. began to come down. But she Yes in prayer and thanks- , was still not out of the woods. giving, we remember our She was still in renal failure many blessings. And for and would possibly survive many things we can be six months or a year, but thankful. might never fully recover. She Yes, even furry little might always be a sick cat friends that beat the odds. who would require medicaGreta and her husband tions, fluids and blood panels.

George, with their children We were told that we could are members of Christ the discharge her and continue the King Parish in Mashpee. intravenous fluids and medi-

vet to have her "put to sleep" the next day.

It was about 10p.m. that evening and she was resting quietly. My husband and I were sitting next to her and all of a sudden she started to purr. We both looked at each other and agreed that somehow she might be telling us that she wanted to live.

We quickly decided that we would take her to the hospital.

It was about midnight when she was admitted. She would be there for three to four days

selves and each other. Our last "Coffee Sunday" broke all attendance records, according to reports.

We have a daily Rosary Group and a Prayer Network. We make our fine Parish Center available as much as possible to community groups -like Scouts and support groups of various kinds. "Hospitality" is a word that often surfaces in conversations around here - it is, after all, our Parish Year of Holy Hospitality. We need to work on encouraging more active participation by more parishioners, on leadership training, on adult education and formation and we eventually need to reestablish formal parish pastoral and fmance councils to determine how it all fits together with our mission.

Here at St. Joseph, we don't have all the time in the world to get our house in order. The population is already increasing and is projected to be burgeoning in the next few years. Large sub-divisions are going up everywhere.

Geographically, we are in a unique position. Dighton is the very center of Bristol County. St. Joseph Church is located a little north of the dead-center of the county, but close enough. Then, of course, there is the early history connected with Dighton Rock (which is no longer in Dighton). : I've studied the prokimity to other parish~s. To,Pt~ nortp is our__ Mother Church, Sacred HeaIt of Taunton - now called Annunciation of the Lord. We were founded as a missionin 1887 31:1d established as a parish in 1913. We are approaching our centennial.

Our parish boundaries extend almost to the front steps ofAnnunciation of the Lord. To the east is the town of Berkley, which has no Catholic church within its boundaries and to the west is Rehoboth, where the same holds true. To the south is St. Peter Church in Dighton.

St. Peter Church was, like St. Joseph Church, founded as a mission of Sacred Heart and became a parish in its own right in 1925.

The bad side of the good news is that here at St. Joseph, as in so many other parishes, we struggle financially. We have a longstanding debt dating from the construction of the parish center.

The weekly income is hardly sufficient for the operation of a fully-functioning modem parish.

Although the job of fund-raising will belong to somebody else, as pastor I routinely give parishioners information on all aspects of community life including income and expenses. Good, bad, or ugly, information is power.

So, today two of my advisors, retired CEO's Don Emond and Rick Dreyer, and I met with Doug Rodrigues, consultant to the Diocesan Office of Pastoral Planning. It's a process of envisioning and planning that has been going on throughout the Diocese of Fall River for some years now, first under the leadership of Msgr. Ron Tosti and now Father David Andrade. Hundreds of people have already been involved.

Visions have been dreamed, plans made, and steps taken. The process continues. Today it was our tum.

Doug wanted to know the facts as we see them as well as our thoughts ~d feelings.

I do have a serious side, dear readers contrary to popular opinion.

We talked for three hours. Doug came here with the needs of all the parishes in the diocese in mind. My scope is limited to this one country parish. I did, however, have a question for Doug: "OK. Now what?"

Father Goldrick is pastor ofSt. Joseph's Parish in Norlh Dighton.

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The Anchor

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At the age of 90, Ray Clement's ministry is served a day at a time BRIAN KENNEDY

Social Services office in Fall River.

He recalls that he worked for 14 years at FALL RIVER - Being the right hand the home operated by nuns that served man to priests celebrating funeral Masses for people in the final stages of terminal canthe deceased doesn't normally draw a lot of cer. When his buddies retired at in their midvolunteers.

70s, he retired - at age 73 - to().

But after seeing a priest alone at the al"I still go walking in the morning with tar one day, Raymond Clement felt he my buddies. One of them is 90, the other is couldn't just sit there when there was God's in his 80s. In the summer time we walk outwork to be done. side, but in the winter we walk the mall," .

"There was no server and I was retired Clement explained. and didn't have anything to do so I started Clement officially began his Church minhelping at the funerals," he explained. istry serving as a collector in 1946, and later That was 20 years ago, and since then became an extraordinary minister of holy Clement has been a Communion. In 1987 he ,was awarded the Marian medal for devotion and service to his parish and the Parish.

1芦" ~,_.,/ //;1 ' ",' universal Church.

The lifelong Fall "My wife used to River resident's spebe mad at me because cial ministry as a I got up so early," he sacristan is essenrecalled. tially to get the altar "But I wasn't reready and the ally mad," Jeannette candles lighted, lay Clement, his wife of out the priest's vest67 years, replied. ments, prepare the "But he used to get up chalice and paten at six in the morning and purificato'r; fill and, he wouldn't the wine and' water come home until cruets, make sure the noontime." pall for the coffin She said that freand the holy water quently Clement are at hand, and do would serve a 6:30 many of the small a.m. Mass, then rethings that go into turn to assist at a futhe preparation for a nerallater in the day. funeral Mass.

The next day he Clement also does ANCHOR PERSON OF THE WEEK - would be back assistthe readings if there Raymond Clement. (Photo by Brian Kennedy) ing at still another are no family mem6:30 a.m. Mass. bers to participate.

"I take it one day at a time," Ray said.

"Our pastor, Father Marc R. Bergeron "It's just the two of us now, our children are handles most of the funerals - and they are g~me," said Ray, who married Jeannette in , of a lot of people we used to know," he noted. 1940 at St. Anne's.

Clement said he was alone at the task for The Clements have three children, seven 15 years until Morris Michaud retired from grandchildren, and a great-grandchild. "All the Post Office and joined him. Although he of our grandchildren have graduated college is still active and has a lively spirit even and one of them just received her doctorthough a nonagenarian, "You've got to be ate," Jeannette noted proudly. tough to be old," he lamented. "Things that Father Bergeron, pastor of St. Anne's, has used to be easy are getting harder," Clement nothing but accolades for Ray Clement. candidly told The Anchor.

"He's a marvelous gentleman, still very Clement grew up in Fall River's active, he's a minister of holy Communion, Maplewood section and attended the former a lector, collector; he does all the funeral St. Jean the Baptist Parish, now Holy Trin- Masses, and if there's no altar server he asity Parish. sists at Mass," said Father Bergeron.

He attended the former Diman Vocational "He's incredibly generous, always availSchool - now Diman Regional, Technical, ~ble, upbeat and happy. Always interested Vocational High School - and started out in reading and knowing about the faith evworking for a painting company. He recalls ery day," Father Bergeron added. having worked in the construction of the The Anchor encourages readers to former Notre Dame Church in the Flint, nominate others for the Person of the which was destroyed by fire in May 1982. Week":"" who and why? Submit nominaBefore retirement he was employed at the tions to: theanchor@anchornews.org, or former Rose Hawthorne Lathrop Home on write to The Anchor, P.O. Box 7, Fall Bay Street, currently the office of Catholic River, MA 02722.

ANCHOR STAFF

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LIFE AFFIRMING - Tammy Blanchard and Eduardo Verastegui star in a scene from the movie "Bella." The film, with a positive, Pro-Life theme will be shown in New Bedford at Flagship Cinemas from November 30 through December 6. (CNS photo/Roadside)

Acclaimed Pro-Life film 'Bella' featured at New Bedford theater NEW BEDFORD - After being received enthusiastically by Catholic audiences at screenings this fall, the Pro-Life film "Bella" will be shown at Flagship Cinemas New Bedford at 500 Kings Highway.

The story line of the inspirational movie is about a Latino restaurant chef in New York City who tries to persuade a co-worker not to have an abortion.

The film is being shown November 30 through December 6. For information on show times, call 508985-3000.

The film was featured in an October 19, front page story in The Anchor by staffer Matt McDonald.

"I think 'Bella' can just carry a tremendous message," commented Marian Desrosiers, director of the

diocese's Pro-Life Apostolate, who spoke to the audience at one of the pre-release screenings.

"It's hitting the young people, that's what's so encouraging," she added.

The low-budget but professionally done film, made last year by Metanoia Films, won the People's Choice Award at the Toronto Film Festival in 2006, but is just now reaching commercial theaters. .

Starring in the film's lead role is Eduardo Verastegui, 33, a rTlajor Mexican film, soap opera, and pop music star, who left the glitter behind to work on productions he thinks have a good message. He is a co-founder of Metanoia Films.

For more information abou't "Bella" go to Bellathemovie.com. The theater site is flagshipcinemas.com.

Australian racecourse cleared for use for events at World Youth Day SYDNEY, Australia - A dispute that threatened the use of Royal Randwick Racecourse in Sydney as , a World Youth Day venue has 路been resolved with the announcement that the Australian and New South Wales governments will disperse a $30 million (US$26.7 million) taxpayerfunded compensation package to the' affected parties.

Under the terms of the agreement announced November 15, an additional $10 million (US$8.9 million) will be set aside in a contingency fund in case the racecourse is so trashed that it cannot be used for the 2008 racing carnival, which this year had 路to ~ canceled due to the outbreak of the highly contagious equine influenza.

The 700 thoroughbred horses and their trainers at Randwick will be relocated to Warwick Farm and Rosehill ra.qlCourses in western Sydney for a , l~week period to coincide with the preparation and staging of the World Youth Day vigil and closing Mass at RandwickJuly 19-20.

Up to halfa million people are expected to attend the closing Mass,

which will be celebrated by Pope Benedict XVI. The papal Mass will be the largest single gathering of people ever organized in Australia.

Trainers and related businesses affected by the move will be paid $ t 0.8 million (US$9.6 million) in reimbursements, with a further $10 million to be spent on upgrading facilities at Warwick Farm and Rosehill racecourses. The agreement also allows for $10 million in new infrastructure at Randwick and payments to the tenant, the Australian Jockey Club.

As part of the negotiations, the Australian Jockey Club had its Randwick lease extended by 50 years.

A statement issued by the organizers ofWorld Youth Day expressed gratitude that the dispute had been resolved to the satisfaction ofall the parties involved.

"We look forward to working with all the stakeholders," said the statement. "A minimum ofdisruption was always our intention, and we are happy that there will be legacy items for the future left at Randwick."

r NOVEMBER

23,2007

$

The Anchor

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Delegates representing 15 parishes in the diocese pray together at a recent MOMS informational meeting held at St. Julie Billiart Church in North Dartmouth (Photos by Brian Kennedy) MOTHERS IN PRAYER -

was the last person to run a program for mothers and children and when I left, the program stopped. Only the MOMS ministry kept me sane."

Several mothers agreed the group was a lifeline in their time of need..

Sister Hagen said history confirms that MOMS can keep women in touch with advice and resources for maintaining local ministries more easily.

After the women gathered around the Paschal candle to sing a prayer, they did more sharing and watched a video emphasizing the practical perspectives of women relative to families, background, and motherhood. The video focused on the connections MOMS offers to women going through difficult situations, and how motherhood is also ministry to the entire family.

Several experienced members of

MOMS led a question and answer session that keyed on the ministry's structure, time concerns and advertising issues. Beginner's Kits and other materials were offered.

Following the session, Joanna Clausen from St. Mary's Parish in Norton told The Anchor, "I think this is a great opportunity to bring the community together to discuss its faith and to help it grow spirituality."

Pat Pasternak, director of Religion Education at Holy Trinity Parish in Fall River, along with Christine Smith, and Betty Ann Hickey told of their enthusiasm.

"We bought a Beginner's Kit and we're excited about the program," the trio said. "Our pastor invited us to come and we're looking forward to getting the ministry started in our parish."

MOMS and its founder share enthusiastic information session

By BRIAN KENNEDY ANCHOR STAFF

NORTH DARTMOUTH -Admitting they were just beginners but hungry to learn how they might grow and share their spiritual life by strengthening each other, dozens of mothers eagerly listened last week as.Benedictine Sister Paula.Hagen . set the course for them. . . The 30 delegates representing 15 parishes from across the Fall River Diocese gathered November 15 for an informational meeting in St. Julie Billiart Parish hall to learn about the Ministry of Mothers Sharing from Sister Hagen, who founded MOMS in Minnesota in 1992.

MOMS is a ministry dedicated to helping women, especially mothers, grow and share their spiritual life.

"It's a women's ministry focused whose children had already grown on women raising the next genera- up and moved away, and who are tion of children," said Sister Paula considered an essential strength.

Hagen, who said she looked forward Sister Hagen agreed. "Young to meeting them. mothers like the wisdom figures the - - The session began with "ice- most because their aunts, mothers, breakers" to fire up the participants. and grandmother's may not be there Sister Hagen asked them what they for support," she stated. knew about MOMS and how they Louise Kelly, a Faith Formati()!l~ learned about it. Several reported teacher at St. Joseph's Parish ill/. that the story that appeared in the North Dighton told the assembly: "I November 2 edition of The Anchor want to grow spiritually and learn piqued their interest. Others heard how to show spirituality to others. I about MOMS from Christ the King feel our generation got shortParish in Mashpee, one of the first changed. There used to be a set - . parishes in the diocese to initiate the schedule ... you'd go to church-evprograrn a few years ago. ery Sunday with your family ... bU(, WARM WELCOME ..,- Scottie Foley, co-director of the diocesan Asked what they wanted from . now there isn't any schedule for Family Ministry Program, welcomes participants to the recent MOMS information session.

MOMS, some said they wanted as- that." sistance from "wisdom figures" Mary Lester, from St. Mary's the experienced, older mothers Parish in South Dartmouth, said "I

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TOO WARM FOR SNOW - Children play in front of locally made Christmas trees created with dry

twigs and displayed along a street in Manila, Philippines, November 13. Christmas is celebrated fervently in the tropical Philippines, Asia's most Catholic nation.

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NOVEMBER

23,2007

'Theology of the Body' series by Anchor executive editor on EWTN By

-.

DEACON JAMES N. DUNBAR

NEW BEDFORD - The Eternal Word Television Network will soon re-air a series on Pope John Paul II's "Theology of the Body" presented by Father Roger J. Landry, executive editor of The Anchor and pastor of St. Anthony of Padua Parish in New Bedford.

The series of eight half-hour programs, to be broadcast on channel 56 in most local cable systems, will run November 26-30 and December 2-4 from 6:30-7 p.m and 3-3:30 am each day.

The "Theology of the Body" refers to 129 famous Wednesday catechetical addresses given by John Paul II between 1979-1984 on human love in the divine plan.

As a whole they have revolutionized the approach of the Catholic Church to the meaning of the differentiation between the sexes, to human sexuality, and to the sacramentality of marriage.

Father Landry's series features half-hour programs entitled, " Human Love in the Divine Plan: An Overview of John Paul II's Theology of the Body"; "The Original Unity of Man and Woman as found in the Book of Genesis"; "Purity of Heart Versus Concupiscence: Cate<;:hesis on the Sermon on the Mount"; "St. Paul's Teaching on the Human Body: Life According to the Spirit"; "Marriage and Celibacy in Light of the Resurrection of the Body"; "Virginity or Celibacy for the Sake of the Kingdom of Heaven"; "The Sacramentality of Marriage Based on Ephesians 5:22-33"; and "Reflections on 'Humanae Vitae' Based on the Redemption of the Body and the Sacramentality of Marriage."

The series was taped at the state-of-the-art studios of the North American Catholic Educational Programming Foundation in Johnston, R.I. An on-line audio version of the eight-part series is available at nacepf.net.

When asked his thoughts about making his television series debut when the series ran for the first time last autumn, Father Landry said he hoped that the programs, would expose Catholics at home to the "revolution in the Catholic understanding of the human person" that John Paul II inaugurated with his theology of the body. "When Catholic married and engaged couples begin to apply the principles John Paul enunciates to their love and life together, everything begins to change," Father Landry noted.

He added that the usefulness of the theology of the body is not limited to those who are married or preparing for marriage.

"The whole purpose of human life is to learn how to love as Christ

loves, and the theology of the body is the deepest and clearest articulation in the history of the Church about how to grow in this love, whether one is single, married, or lives celibately for the sake of the kingdom of heaven," he explained.

Since his ordination in 1999, Father Landry has regularly given presentations on the theology of the body at conferences, colleges, parishes and diocesan priest assemblies.

With Bishop David Ricken of Cheyenne, Wyo., Father Landry is spiritual advisor to the Theology of the Body International Alliance. His 32-page "Theology of the Body: A Cliff Notes' Version," available for free as a downioad at catholicpreaching.com, has been a popular introduction for new students to John Paul II's thought.

He first encountered the theology of the body as a student at Harvard College.

"In trying to carry out an apostolate with my friends and fellow students, I found that many had questions about the sexual teachings of the Church that the traditional expositions of Church moral teaching did not satisfy," F~~her Ll\ll~t:y ~tNed. , "There was a need for a new apologetic. I found what I needed - both personally and for others - in the teachings of Karol Wojtyla, both his 1960 philosophical work 'Love and Responsibility' and later, after his election to the papacy, in his theology of the body. Both effectively helped me to explain how one goes about reflecting Christ's self-giving love in the experience of human love," he added.

Later, during his studies for the priesthood in Rome, he spent two years at the John Paul II Institute for the Study of Marriage and Family at the Lateran University, where he examined these teachings more formally and thoroughly.

Father Landry said he had no illusions about becoming a television star any time soon. "I have a face for radio and a voice for the print media," he joked.' "No one will confuse me for Fulton J. Sheen."

He added, however, that despite these "personal obstacles," he thought that the series still had a chance. "My experience in teaching the theology of the body to live crowds of various ages and backgrounds has shown me that the beauty of Pope John Paul II's ideas still shines through defective instruments. People can still receive and recognize the gift despite its wrapping paper. I am happy that EWTN has decided to re-air it."

THIS WARRIOR IS NO WORRIER - Beowulf, played by Ray Winstone, is seen in the movie "Beowulf."

For a brief review ofthif> fn~gee CNS Movie Capsules below. (CNS photo/Paramount)

IC~~ ~'I()'Viile

(CaIIVSUIII,es NEW YORK (CNS) - The following are capsule reviews of movies recently rev~~wed by the . d Office for Film & Broadcasting of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

I

"Beowulf" (Paramount) Generally impressive 3-D animated reworking of the Beowulf legend, dramatizing the warrior's (Ray Winstone) vanquishing of the tortured Grendel (Crispin Glover), his encounter with the demon's mother (Angelina Jolie), and his later troubled kingship. Director

Robert Zemeckis has taken some dramatic license with the venerable but sketchy original narrative, but writers Neil Gaiman and Roger Avery's intelligent screenplay has remained faithful to the essentials, including its mix of Christian and pagan elements, while several of the action sequences, including the climactic battle with a flying dragon, are excitingly done.

Nearly full male' and female nudity, sexual references and innuendo, period bawdiness, adultery, implied nonmarital encounters, intepse violence with gore and a suicide. Possibly acceptable for older teens. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III - adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 - parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.

"Mr. Magorium'8 Wonder Emporium" (Walden/ Mandate/Fox)

Wholesome, well-meaning but only moderately charming tale about a magical toy store run by a 243-year-old eccentric (Dustin Hoffman), his young assistant (Natalie Portman), a nine-year-old boy (Zach Mills), and their new stuffy accountant (Jason Bateman). There are too many holes in writer-director Zach Helm's basic premise even for a fantasy, while the death of a major character and the shop's subsequent temporary transformation into funereal black may be too downbeat for the youngest viewers, while the ultimate messages about "believing in yourself' and "finding the magic within" have been done better elsewhere. An ambiguous remark about the afterlife. The, USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is AI - general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is G - general audiences. All ages admitted.

'The Birth of Christ' on public TV December 1

By HARRY FORBES CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE NEW YORK - In Dublin) Christ Church Cathedral, a block from where Handel first unveiled his classic "Messiah," this new Chrisi.~ mas cantata by Andrew T. Miller is given a beautifully filmed airing on public television stations beginning December 1 (check local listings).

Conducted by the composer and hosted by actor Liam Neeson, who also offers vivid and reverential readings fro~Luke's Nativity passages between mas, duets and choruses, the chorus for the international premiere of the work is comprised of Catholic and Protestant singers who put aside their sectarian differences to give musical life

Diocese of Fall River TV Mass on WLNE Channel 6 Sunday, November 25 at 11:00 a.m.

Solemnity of Christ the King Scheduled celebrant is Father Kevin A. Cook, chaplain at Coyle and Cassidy High School in Taunton, and assistant director of the diocesan Vocation Office

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to the events that anchor both faiths.

Using the same Protestant choirs employed by the Catholic Handel centuries ago - that is, those of Christ Church and St. Patrick's Cathedral- the present group is augmented by Catholic members of St. Mary's Pro-Cathedral Choir.

The excellent soloists include Amy Bills, Kelley O'Connor, Robert McPherson, John B. Cooper, Owen Gihooly and Robin Tritschler.

The letterboxed presentation filmed in August 2006 was directed

by Michael McNamara, and produced by Raymond Arroyo for public station WLIW New York. The fluid camerawork and attractive production design add visual interest.

Neeson speaks admiringly of this music's "power to unite" the two not-so-disparate groups and calls the stirring and absorbing cantata "transcendent in its beauty."

He's right on both counts.

NOVEMBER

23,2007

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The sting of death glue in our extended family, who One of my younger sisters, was everyone's favorite, though in Nellie Marie Lide, aged 48, died families you're not supposed to suddenly and unexpectedly on , Wednesday, November 14, of heart have favorites, suddenly died. St. Paul, famously, ~ his first epistle failure. On a recent blog, she to the Corinthians, asks "Oh death, described herself as a "middleaged woman with a husband, three where is thy sting?" (l Cor 15:55). kids, a job, a dog, an old house and He thus proclaims our faith in the resurrection of Christ and of the a headache." Nellie was the family dead, which more than compencomic, falling squarely in the sates for the sting of death. But middle of a family of 13 children. there is a sting to death.

She had three older sisters, three Jesus himself wept at the death older brothers of whom I'm one, 'of his friend Lazarus (In 11 :35). three younger sisters and three St. Augustine weeps in his younger brothers.

"Confessions" at the death of his Nellie was synonymous with, mother Monica. I have seen fun: for her husband, for her wonderful parents, overcome with children, and for the rest of the 46 grief, trying to cope with the Lide cousins and their parents and grandparents, she radiated joy. She sudden death of their infant child. loved movies, and would always The question jumps out: Why â&#x20AC;˘ does God allow people to die? bring carloads of cousins to the opening, even or especially if it ' , Why this one rather than that one? was at midnight, of the latest "Star It's a mystery, of course, but one that Jesus himself and his mother Wars" or "Harry Potter" feature. went through, and all of us must Snacks and treats were her go through sooner or later. Of specialty. 'course, the death of the saints When in the 1980s she worked for "60 Minutes," she was the one means more joy in heaven, theirs especially. But that may seem small consola~ tion to us here below.

Death reminds us, rather sharply perhaps, that we have here no lasting city, and that what really who came up with the idea for a counts in life is getting to heaven, segment on Mother Angelica and EWTN, a delightful piece that won our definitive home, where God will wipe'away every tear from our an award and some well-deserved national recognition for Mother eyes and there will be no more Angelica's work. Nellie, in filming death nor mourning. Having a the piece, fell in love with those loved one in heaven keeps our dedicated Sisters¡down in Alapriorities straight. bama.

November is dedicated to the She knew how to handle faithful departed, and prayer for adversity. D~pression runs in the the souls in purgatory. "It is a holy family, and Nellie experienced a 'and wholesome thought to pray for bout a number of years ago when the dead~' (2 Mac. 12':46). They her family moved to California need to get to heaven, and we do, away from her roots in Rockville, too. In this season of ThanksgivMaryland. Craziness exists, in life, ing, we need to remember our in the world, in others, sometimes dead and pray for them with in ourselves, and it was Nellie who gratitude. taught me that "Whatever!" can be One of my best friends wrote a good aspiration. She always saw me that "When my father died, the humor in everything. it was the first time I was ever When my father died in 2001, it inclined to hit the fast forward was Nellie who gave the eulogy. button in life, so much did I Some excerpts: "This past week, want to see him again. Can't do when we brought dad home from that, of course, but I am encourthe hospital, my mother would aged that we are all making lead a rosary every night with progress towards our family whoever was around. My daughter reunions. Eye has not seen, nor Mary told me it was the most ear heard, what God has in spiritual thing she had ever done, store" for those who love'him. even 'bigger than confirmation ¡she NeiIie, I'm looking forward to said. I was glad my kids could see that family reunion. The ones faith in action, and the power of here below just won't be the prayer.... I want to close by saying same without you. that family is a complicated, Dwight Duncan is a professor exhilarating, precious beast, and at Southern New England School I'm glad I got to ride that beast ofLaw in North Dartmouth. He with my dad." holds degrees in civil and canon law. ' Well, this person who was the

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Against POLITICAL STATEMENT - Anti-abortion demonstraf~rs rally against former New York mayor and Republican presidential candidate Rudolph Giuliani during his campaign stop in Council Bluffs, Iowa, November 14. Giuliani, a Catholic, supports keeping abortion I~gal. (CNS photo/Shannon Stapleton, Reuters)

Nurse

Continued from page one

at hospitals where abortions and sterilizations are performed, the abortion pill is given out, and human cloning research takes place, and that some nurses don't have conscience clauses in their contracts that would allow them not to participate in activities they find morally objectionable.

That means some Catholic nurses are in the uncomfortable position of choosing between their work and their religious beliefs: ''This has got to stop," Meehan said. 'We've got to make it so they cannot lose their job if they are following their consciences." , Meehan, 66, in August became the first American elected president in the 74-year history of the International Catholic Committee of Nurses and Medical-Social Assistants, which recently moved its headquarters from Brussels, Belgium, to Dublin, Ireland.

The organization, which has national affiliates in 29 countries, aims , to educate nurses about nursing techniques and about ethical and spiritual issues concerning their work, tries to make sure that all people get the best care possible regardless of nationality, and encourages Catholic nurses to set up national organizations in countries where they don't exist.

Among the current topics the organization is addressing is nurses moving from Third World countries to industrialized countries, which in many cases causes problems at both ends: The native countries lose nurses they need, while the receiving countries gain nurses whose skills often aren't up to their standards.

Meehan, who grew up in Everett, moved to Cape Cod in 1963 with her late husband, Jack Meehan.

She wolked as a nurse at Cape Cod Hospital from 1963 to 1983. In 1992 she earned a master's degree from the University ofTennessee that included clinical wolk in medical ethics and psychiatric ethics.

Meehan formed the first organization of Catholic nurses on Cape Cod in 1978, recalls Joan Morin, a Centerville resident who earlier this year was elected the international

nurses' organization'~ vice president harder to do their wolk and still be true for the North American region. to what the Church teaches and what Catholic nurses' organizations in they believe.

"As Catholic nurses we cannot exthis coUntry and elseWhere have in recent years lost me",bership, Morin ercise our consciences at work,". said, attributing it to the time crunch Meehan said. "And we are in a bind nurses feel between theirjobs and their trying to exercise our consciences. families and other "commitments, Therefore, there is a reason for orgawhich doesn't leavel,much time for nizational wolk. It serves for solidarity and strength." participating in organizations.

Meehan said meetings within and As president of th,e New England Council ofCatholic Nurses, Morin has among Catholic medical organizations seen a steep drop in participation dur- can also serve as a sounding board for ing the last 10 years.'But Morin said individual members' experiences and Meehan may be just what the interna- questions about what to do if certain difficult situations arise. tional organization needs.

"God wants us to be where we are, ''It's a safe environment to discuss and if he has placed Marylee in the these things:' Meehan said.

Hospitals and doctor's offices once position that she is in: then he doesn't want us to give up tl)e ghost," Morin seemed uncontroversial, but nowadays said. "And I think Marylee has the many Catholic nurses have to make determination that if,there's any way serious moral decisions in a worlcplace we can pull things tOgether, she will that at times can seem like foreign terbe the one to'do it." , ritory.

"We're faced with certain dilemMeehan said she has seen signs of renewed interest ~ntly in Catholic mas day in and day out. They're not nurses' organizatiorui and in her inter- . simple, at times:' Morin said. 'We live national organizationin particular. She in a very, very secular society. Being has reviewed applicJtions to find out affected in that way, we need to have a grOup that rallies around us, so we why. : "And most ofthe people werejoin- can keep our Catholicity in perspecing our organization because they felt tive, and do what God wants us to do." alone in the workplace with their At the Vatican forum scheduled for Catholic moral conscience and val- November 30 through December 2, Meehan expects to meet one-on-one ues:' Meehan said.

She cited an exarhple where a na- with several high-ranking Vatican oftional organization of Catholic nurses ficials and to attend a larger meeting recently pressed the" international or- with Pope Benedict XVI. ganization to renew, its membership.

The International CatholicCominitShe was also plannihg this month to ree ofNurses and Medical-SocialAssisattend a meeting in Mexico ofCatho- tants is on the agenda of the Vatican in lic nurses interested 'in joining. part because it hasarepresentative to the For Meehan, who has toiled for United Nations and contacts there. years on boards and committees and ''I found out that things not only at various international conferences, trickle down, they trickle up. It is the the increase in intefest is a sign that Vatican and the pope that have to be her commitment may be worthwhile. informed by the laity going to these ''This w~ one ofthe most exciting international organizations:'she said. things for me, becapse you wolk so As for the obstacles Catholics face hard, and sometimes you say, 'Does in the modern world, Meehan looks anyone even care what I'm doing?'" upon them more as an opportunity Meehan said. " than a burden. ''It's just so wonderful and excitDuring a recent meeting with a Catholic physicians' grOup, Meehan ing to be in this position at this time in saidshe found comIIlon cause with the the world that we as Catholics live in:' doctors, some of whom are finding it she said. !i

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NOVEMBER

23,2007

Being patient with yourself This is the first ofa five-part Advent series by Holy Cross Father Richard Gribble.

and effectively to do all we can to build God's Kingdom. into our hearts and test ourselves on a regular basis. This When opportunity knocks we must not pass it by. Jesus requires sufficient time for reflection and introspection. invites us in the Book of Revelation 3:20, "Listen! I am Advent is a time when we wait, patiently and in Once we've taken the time, examined ourselves, and discovered both what is good and what needs our attention expectation. This first liturgical season of grace encourages standing at the door, knocking; if you hear my voice and open the door 1 will come into you and eat with you and us to wait for the Lord in two different ways. We wait for in our lives, then we must have the courage to act. When a you with me." We cannot answer every call nor solve all student does poorly on an assignment he or she has two the Lord in history and in time. At the outset of Advent the problems, but we must be open to the opportunities that options: one can seek assistance and work harder and more Church asks us to think about Christ's Second Coming, come our way, and make prudent judgments on what we diligently to produce a better income the next time or one when he will return to reclaim the world for God. The can do. may give up and surrender. The same options apply to any more prominent theme, and the one upon which most Once we have acknowledged our strengths and have endeavor in life. We always have two possible responses to concentrate their efforts, is the coming of Christ in time, given thanks to God for our gifts, we must also recognize our experiences and self-evaluation, namely action or namely the Incarnation. Both of these great events require our weaknesses. No one is perfect; we are broken and resignation. For the Christian, however, there is only one us to wait patiently but with great expectation for the Lord. incomplete human beings. Weakness is a common denomiresponse - and that is action. When the Christian fails the We qmnot, however, adequately or rightly wait with nator but it is not something to be feared. On the contrary, test and finds himself proyerbially on his knees in the dirt, patient expectation for Christ unless we are first patient admitting weakness is a sign of strength. St. Paul recognized than the one and only action is to stand up, dust himself with ourselves and others. Thus, we must begin our off, and then continue to move forward in his life. Jesus that he was a weak person. He wrote to the Corinthians: "I journey by learning to be patient with ourselves. put it very well in the Gospels, "If any want to become my came to you in weakness and fear and much trembling" (1 The question, of course, is how can we bes~ do this? followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross Cor 2:3). He was not afraid to admit his weaknesses, but The answer, I believe, is found in significant reflection on rather saw them as a way to demonstrate his power. He told and follow me. For those who want to save their life will five central ideas common to each human person: our lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find them later, "He [Jesus] said to me, 'MX gra~~..i~ s~!ficient it" (Mt 16:24-25). for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.' So, 1 will Advent is a time of patient expectation. We must look, boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the Time of ",-,,\ evaluate and promote our strengths. We need to acknowlpower of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore, 1 am content edge our weaknesses, never being ashamed or reticent to use with weaknesses, insults; hardships, persecutions, and them as tools, and always remembering what St. Paul said, calamities for the sake of Christ; for whenever 1 am weak, "God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong" then 1 am strong" (2 Cor 12:9-10).

I By (I Cor I :27b). We should set high, yet reasonable and Reflection upon our experience in life will clearly show ' . I Gribble, realistic expectations, for ourselves and others; we need to the validity of Paul's words. If we encounter an individual push ourselves and others to the next level. We must take the who possesses the courage to admit error or weakness, it experiences of our life and use them as a challenge and becomes a sign of greatness. On the other hand when educational tool. Finally, after self-reflection and soulstrengths, we'aknesses, expectations, experiences, and tests. someone refuses to admit an error or to acknowledge searching, we must test ourselves and others so as to help all weakness we perceive the person as arrogant. Weakness, In short we can build an acronym for the way we must be to move forward in our common quest to promote and build patient with ourselves: SWEET. therefore, is never bad so long as we do not dwell on what the Kingdom of God in our world.

God has blessed all of us with many strengths which are we cannot do, but rather on what we can.

This is SWEET - strengths, weaknesses, expectations, manifest in many different ways. We have all been given Once we recognize our strengths and our weaknesses experiences, and tests. This is the challenge of ourselves then we must examine what are our expectations in life. certain talents - some that are common to many and that constitutes the first step in our journey of patient Do we see life as a g~ass of water half empty or half full? others that are rather unique to the individual. God blesses ' The answer reflects directly on our ability to recognize our expectation during this Advent season. us with many opportunities that allow us to better ourFather Gribble is a noted author and is associate strengths, accept our weaknesses and inabilities, and see selves and our world. While it is limited and always seems professor ofreligious studies at Stonehill College in North in short supply, we all have time, which we must use well them as sources of strength. Moreover, it helps us to Easton. and wisely. Life experience teaches us what our strengths understand our expectations. What is our general attitude toward life? Are our expectations positive with the glass are, but after acknowledging their existence we must realize our need to utilize them fully and to the best of our half full or more negative with the glass half empty? More ability. specifically what should our expectations in life be? What On various occasions in the Gospels, Jesus exhorts his should we and can we reasonably expect from ourselves? listeners to use their personal gifts and talents to promote The answer to our expectations, 1 believe, must be realistic, and build the Kingdom of God. Talents used poorly or but we should at least start high. If our personal expectaabused will be lost or taken away. This reality is made very tions are low, then most assuredly our performance will be clear in the "Parable of the Talents" (Mt 25: 14-30). Jesus equally sub-par. Generally speaking, human beings will tells the story of a master who entrusts his property to his only perform to the level they are expected to meet. Thus, servants according to their ability to manage it well. The if all we ask is the minimum, this is precisely what we will master is pleased with those servants who have taken their receive. If we seek higher goals for ourselves, on the other talents and doubled their amount by using them approprihand, we may be pleasantly surprised at what we find. ately, but he is highly displeased by the servant who doe!?

Surely, there is a risk of being disheartened, even disillunothing with the talent he was given. The point of the sioned, but challenging ourselves to maximize our poten, parable is not the amount of talent produced, but that the tial is a good thing, a laudable goal for all. We cannot do it individ~al utilized what was given to its maximum all; no one actually expects this. We do not need to save the . potential. Jesus summarizes his teaching on the proper use world; Jesus did it once for all time. of our gifts, noting that we will be accountable for what we Many of the expectations we have, for ourselves and have been given: "From everyone to whom much has been others, come as a result of past experiences. We all know given, much will be required; and from the one to whom the common expression, "Experience is the greatest much has been entrusted, even more will be demanded" teacher." Experiences must be a challenge and source of (Lk 12:48b). education for us. Experiences, especially new ones, should What is Jesus telling us? We must do what we do to the inspire us to greatness. We. should never hide from such best of our ability. We must never let our talents get rusty challenges. Yes, it is true, we must kn路ow our limitations, through lack of use. We have all heard the expression, but they should not prevent us from accepting challenges "Use it or lose it." Laziness and disinterest are often and moving forward to new and different things. We must problematic for many of us. We at times feel overburdened recall the challenge Jesus gave to Peter. After a long hard and, therefore, have a tendency to do nothing. The gifts we night of fishing with no positive results, Peter was natuhave, the talents we have received, are given for our use to rally tired, but he accepted Jesus' challenge when the Lord advance the common good and to promote the Kingdom of said, "Put out into deep water and let down your nets for a , God in our world. 'catch" (Luke 5:4). Peter's ability to accept the challenge of Let us not forget that time and opportunity, as well as Jesus, to not shy away from possibilities, allowed him the opportunity for the great catch of fish. If we do nothing our physical abilities, are valuable gifts. In fact, time is possibly the most precious commodity; we never seem to new in our life we will stagnate and wither as assuredly as have enough of it. We are always asked to do more, never does a plant withouf sufficient water.

The final step in our journey of being patient with less. Our responsibilities are always more numerous, never OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE - a shining example of patient prayer. ourselves is the need for self-examination. We must look fewer. Thus, it is imperative that we spend our time wisely

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NOVEMBER

23, 2007

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Many' believe a Massachusetts casino is too much of a gamble

By GAIL BESSE ANCHOR CORRESPON.DENT

belongs to the coalition.

Now online poker players are lining up with NEW BEDFORD - Gambling on casinos churches and social service groups to oppose to make life better in the Bay State is a poor the bill as well, but for a different reason. bet, espec;:ially without all the cards on the Buried inside it is a three-paragraph provitable. sion to 'penalize online garners with fines of That was the consensus of some listeners at up to $25,000 and jail terms of up to two years. a NQvem~er 12 forum explaining the high Internet gambling is illegal under federal law, stakes at risk in Gov. Deval Patrick's proposal but that law is nearly impossible to enforce. to expand legaliZed gambling.

"Deval in disg'uised attempt to ban Internet The forum atthe New Bedford Whaling Mu- gambling," quipped a writer at eseum was the first of several planned statewide consultancy.com. Other critics have called

by Casino Free Mass, a coalition opposed to Patrick's plan to push one type of gambling licensing resort casinos. while punishing another "hypocritical."

The coalition formed October 29 in response Everett expiained tharby allowing Class III to a bill filed October 11 to authorize three gaming, the bill could open the door to more large-scale resorts in different regions. East than just three commercial casinos. Under the Boston, Middleboro and Palmer in Central federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988, Massachusetts are among potential sites. a sovereign Indian nation can operate a gam. "This is not just an . . bling establishment at. extension of the Lotwhatever level the state tery," explained Laura allows on land taken Everett, associate direc"You pay even if you don't pIa}'.." into federal trust. tor of the Massachusetts the coalition warns. (~ casino. is Massachusetts now Council of Churches uniquely different from a lottery be- has two federally recand coalition spokes- causeacasinogivesfreealcoholto ognized tribes: the woman. gamblers to even further diminish Wampanoag Tribe of The governor's 'plan the player'S odds, extends lines of Gay Head (Aquinnah) claims these casinos credit to its patrons and allows gam- and the Mashpee. will result in 20,000 bIers to take cash advances from Wamp an 9 a g, which propermanent new jobs and credit cards." poses to build a $1 biladd "billions of dollars" lion casino on land in to the economy, a Middleboro. premise that many in this audience of 150 One of the Casino. Free Mass coaweren't wagering will materialize. lition members is Casinofacts.org, a "We really don't know if the promised eco- Middleboro citizen group formed in reaction nomics would pan out. In other places, it hasn't to that pian. Its former president Richard Young panned out,'" said Father Mark R. Bergeron, now heads the new coalition, which is also pastor of St. Anne Parish in Fall River and di- comprised of the Massachusetts Family Instiocesan ecumenical officer. tute; the Interchurch Council of Greater New "There's very little information on this plan Bedford; the Muslim American Society, Bosand a great hurry to get it through without that ton Chapter; and the state chapters of the information," Father Bergeron said. Indeed, the League .of Women Voters, the National Asso33-page bill Patrick has proposed calls it "an ciation of Social Workers and the National Asemergency law, necessary for the preservation sociation on Mental Illness. of the publiC convenience."

The coalition's Website "We're not opposed to gambling per se," said www.casinofreemass.orgexplainshow citizens can the priest. "My own parish l).as Bingo - but get involved. It also lists studies showing casinos' this detailed legislation needs more study so detrimental effects: more rather than fewer budget we don't go borrowing trouble." problems; more traffic, crime and addiction, accomAnd trouble would come with the terr.itory, panied by a downturn in local business and a need according to a speaker from Ledyard, Conn., for more social services because ofdistressedfamihome to Foxwoods. Elaine Bono, from the lies, child abuse, mental illness and bankruptcies.

League of Women Voters, said her formerly "You pay even if you don't play," the coalisleepy little town suffered a transformation for tion warns. "A casino is uniquely different from the worse since the resort opened. Now people a lottery because a casino gives free alcohol to always lock their doors and tour buses speed gamblers to even further diminish the player's past cannibalized local businesses.

• odds, extends lines of credit to its patrons and "I was most struck by Bono's talk," said lis- allows gamblers to take cash advances from tener Patricia Wampler, a parishioner of Holy credit cards."

Name of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Patrick's plan must go before the state LegNew Bedford. islature, where it could face an uphill fight. .

"I'don't feel we can legislate morality voter Everett pointed out that it's not just the comvigilance is called for, particularly with this munity where a casino is located that's affected governor, who seems to have a careening., by it. "Studies show that gambling addictions agenda of putting the purse before the people," double and quality of life decreases within a she said. "We need a steady-as-you-go solvent 50-mile radius of them.

"We've been told to want for our neighbor plan, not a quick and socially destructive answer." what, we want for ourselves," she said. "Nobody All four Massachusetts bishops have op- wants a casino in their own back yard. Why posed the plan through their public policy arm, would we want this for our neighbors in Palmer, the Massachusetts Catholic Conference, which Middleboro, East Boston or New Bedford?"

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Teens called to simple acts of stewardship' in new statement 'I

By PATRICIA ZAPOR CATHOLIC NEWS $ERVICE

BALTIMORE- The U.S. bishops in a new statement are calling teen-agers to be disciples by performing acts as simple as assisting with liturgical ministri~s, giving up the cost of a movie ticket to support the poor, or visiting people who are alone., In "Stewardship and Teenagers: The Challenge of Beink'a Disciple," approved in a 198-6 I' vote during their annual meeting, the U.S. bishops spelled out in simple language what young people can and should do to share their "tirrte, talent and d d' b treasure." The text ..

IS u;lten e to e circulated as a brochUre. To love Jesus, the document ' says, "means loving Jesus as my brother and my savior, my best· II friend and my God. It,rteans living our faith fully. It means sharing it freely as disciples of Jesus Chri'st by living out the Go~pel value of stewardship. It means walking a mile in the other persbn's shoes."

II The document foll!>ws the 2004 approval of a similar stewardship brochure directed at young adults.

In the new text, the bi~hops explain that stewardship is born out of love, 'I 'and ask young people to think of those they love the mo~t or who lov~, , them the most. .

"Know that the love of God for you is so much more than the greatest love you have ::ever felt or known!" the document says. "The' love of God is without end, and through following Christ, you have the benefit of the role model of sacrifice for the greater ~ood."

It encourages building a relationship with Jesus through prayer and using that guidance to be a dis11

ciple and live out stewardship.

"God has given you many gifts," it says. "Look around at the people in your life; think about the many opportunities you have been given; rejoice in the ways you are already using your talents for the betterment of the Church and your community.

These are all gifts, and they are all from God." Stewardship is about acting for others, it explains, and discipleship means doing for others' without counting the cost.

"Even the smallest act of kindness can bring joy and relief to another," it says. "You are in a unique position to reach out to your peers and share with them the unconditionallove of God. Seize every opportunity to show them God's love through your random acts of kindness: an encouraging word, a pat on the back, a helpful hand."

The statement notes that young and old alike struggle to be true to God's call, adding that the Church - especially through the sacraments - is there as a guide.

"It is a day-by-day journey, and the way may not always be clear," it says, but daily prayer and weekly attendance at M~ss can help one find the way.

It concluoes by explaining that both Pope John Paul II and his successor, Pope Benedict XVI, have called the Church to be a place for young people, "a Church that is not afraid to require much, after having given much; that does not fear asking from young people the effort of a noble and authentic adventure, such as that of following Christ. We, your bishops, are asking: Come join us in the adventure!"

ENTRANCE EXAM Saturda • December 1 • 7:45 a.m.-ll:30 a.lll.

•No preregistration required •$20.00 per person •Bring two No.2 pencils - •No calculators please T

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YOUTH PAGES

NOVEMBER

23, 2007

GIANT STEPS - On November'9, the Bishop Feehan High School Band from Attleboro competed in its first U.S. Scholastic Division II Open Northern States Champion-

ships at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., placing third and taking home awards for Best Visual and Overall Effect. It missed first place by just .275 of a point. Lead

by Drum Major Brandon Murphy and Color Guard Captain Mackenzi~ Smith, the band remained undefeated up to this point as it virtually swept every competition of the season, including the U.S. Association's Division II Open New England Regional and the New England Association Championships. It remains undefeated for two years in NESBA. "The band rose to a new high," commented Joe Taylor, band director. "This certainly has to be one of the best bands Feehan has put onto the field. It was truly outstanding in every respect, especially considering the venue."

LIKE IT WAS YESTERDAY - Members of the Bishop Cassidy High School Class of 1967 recently

held its 40th reunion in Plymouth. One-third of the class attended. Here they gather for a group shot while on a Plymouth Harbor Cruise.

NEW SCHOOL UNIFORM - A pair.of St. Mary-Sacred Heart School students process into church during a recent Pageant of Saints at the North Attleboro school.

Students from St. Mary's School in Mansfield attended an All Saints Day Mass dressed as their favorite patron saint.

SAINTS OF THE DAY -

Bishop Cassidy High School Class of '67 gath'ers to celebrate 4~th anniversary PLYMOUTH - The Bishop Cassidy High School Class of '67 held its 40th reunion in Plymouth. Attendees came from as far away as Oregon, Tennessee, Wisconsin and Florida. Others travelling from Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York and Massachusetts were equally excited to see their "sisters" of four years. Some had even shared 12 years of matriculation together.

The theme of the gathering was "There's No Place Like Home." For four years, Bishop Cassidy was like home to 98 teen-age girls.

Forty years later, many of the graduates joined together as a family to share their memories, accomplishments, and to reconnect.

The group came together to sing their theme song, "There is a Ship." Spouses who accompanied some of the ladies commented on the camaraderie and closeness that was in evidence , even after 40 years.

Principal Holy Union Sister John Elizabeth's words to the first full-fledged Cassidyites were to keep the ideals of the graduate prayer, "'Eternal

o

Life.' Keep them ever before our minds; grasp them firmly and grapple them to our soul with hoops of steel."

The reunion began with a Plymouth Harbor Cruise, then over to the East Bay Grille for cocktails and dinner. Awards included: for the most chil~ dren; coming the farthest, etc. Name tags with high school portraits were handed out, along with Special Occasion chocolate bars bearing the graduation group photo, a charm tag for cell phones, and Mary Kay products donated by classmate Rosie McKenna, Mary Kay director. .

At the end of the evening, the committee for the past five reunions, Nancy Saben Brown, Brenda.O'Keefe Clemmey, Tina Victoria Trucchi and Ginny Eddy Levesque, passed the torch to a new group for future reunions. Anne Silva, Anne Alexander, and Barbara Quill who will continue the tradition.

Many alumnae were unable to be found, some had previous commitments, but one third of the class of 98 did attend - with bells on.

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NOVEMBER

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23,2007

17

YOUTH PAGES

~atholic I:

BvTIM PUET .

CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE COLUMBUS, Ohio - During the National Catholic Youth Conference in Columbus November 8-10, nearly 20,000 youths had the chance to sing, pray, ask questions about their faith, meet new people and even play dodge ball .. . Bishop Matthew H. Clark of Rochester, N.Y., told participants during the closing ceremony that he hoped the experience was a "profoundly confirming time for you and an expression of the deep love of the Church for you."

"And I hope that when you return, you share your experience and tell how your being together in these wonderful days in Columbus has spoken to your heart.

The folks back home are very anxious to hear what you have learned and shared about Christ," he added.

Bishop Clark served as celebrant for the closing ceremony in place of Columbus Bishop.

Frederick F. Campbell who was recovering from foot surgery.

The Washington-based National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry was the conference'ssponsor, and the Columbus Diocese was the conference host.

The Rochester bishop also addressed the sadness that overshadowed the conference because of the death of conference participant Veronica Gantt, 16, of Las Vegas, who was killed by a hitand-run driver in Columbus November 8.

"There has been cause foitears

youths at Ohio national conference keep faith alive

among us throligh the weekend," Bishop Clark said.

"I have also seen you laugh, be inspired to :,dance, break into marvelous song, and extend kindness, care Ila nd consideration not just to one 'another, but to the arena staff and the people of Columbus. You have been able to II wrap your arms around that which is painful and that which

is beautiful," he told them.

During question-and-answer sessions with the youths, Bishop Clark was joined by seven other bishops who were asked about temptation, heaven, vocations, celibacy, contraception, the Latinlanguage Mass and the war in Iraq, among other topics.

Participants also had the chance to discuss bullying, dating,

sharing the faith with family and friends, Catholic social teaching, deepening one's faith, stress management and tragedy in a variety of panel discussions and workshops.

The workshop on bullying dealt with how to respond to a bully without becoming one and how body language may cause some people to become targets for

YOUTH GROUP -- A crowd of more than 20,000 young people from across the U.S. gathered November 8 in ~he Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio, for the opening session of the 2007 National Catholic Youth Conference. The three-day event featured worship, seminars, a Catholic theme park, music and lots of time for fellowship. (CNS photo/Jack Kustron, The Catholic Times)

bullying.

"Kids who have a strong relationship with God seem less likely to get bullied," said workshop presenter Terry Clark of the St. Thomas Center in Des Moines, Iowa.

"They are self-assured, walking with God. If you want to feel less bullied, look up, smile, act like you're happy to be alive. Act like you're a son of God." "We have a God that understands bullying," Clark said, pointing out that Jesus was "bullied on the way to Calvary like no one else before or since."

"He responded with love.

That's the ultimatel:\nswer to bullying -love for yourself and love for each other," she added.

During the conference there were also daily liturgies, opportunities to pray in an adoration chapel and opportunities to receive the sacrament of reconciliation. Another highlight was a theme park which featured displays from many Catholic organizations and included a series of webcasts with youths from India, EI Salvador and the Philippines. , Mark Butler, director of the Columbus diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, said the ultimate effect of the conference is likely to be seen in parish youth ministry programs.

"Many parishes don't yet have a youth ministry, and I anticipate many young people will be going back to those parishes wanting to be more active. In the long run, this is going to be a great way to further the cause of youth ministry," he said.

God knows us best II

The Church says we have an "obligation in justice" to change the unjust systems that keep some people poor. This obligation . requires commitment, and I truly believe that this commitment begins at Mass. By going to Mass we connect what happens in the Mass with the world outside.

When we receive Communion we are responding to a challenge; We are meeting Christ and we are asked to recognize him in everyone we meet. He asks us to share what we have with one another. We h'!-ve to be involved in our world in the way Jesus was involved in his. This not only helps others - it makes us more like Christ and fills us with grace.

It is an invitation to change. St. JohnChrysostom writes, "Do not honor Jesus here in church clothed in silk vestments and then pass him by unclothed and frozen outside."

Today, more young people are responding to the Church's call to

promote and work for social justice. I beliJve this c~mmitment is a gift of un~elfish love. What about you? Are you willing and ready to mak~ such a commitment? Are you willing to ask God to help you? Are you asking for thJ right thing? The following is a story about ~hat we often ask God is not what we really need: "I asked' God to take away my pai~. God said, No. It is not for me to take away, but for you to give it up. I ~ked God to make my hartdicappedchild whole. God said, No. Her spirit is whole, her b9dy is only temporary. I asked :,God to grant me patience. God said, No. Patience is a by-proddct of tribulations; it isn't granted\ it is earned. I asked God to give ple happiness. God said, No. I g~ve you blessings; happiness'is1up to you. I asked God to spare me pain. God said,

No. Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me. I asked God to make my spirit grow. God said; No. You must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make you

II

fruitful. I asked God for all things that I might enjoy life. God said, No. I will give you life so that you may enjoy all things; I asked God to help me love others, as much as 'he loves me. God said ... Ahhhh, finally you get the idea." God knows us better than we know ourselves.

Sometimes adults look at the good that youth do and are

amazed by the charity, compasprayer of thanks. God truly knows sion and love that young people our needs and provides all that we give. I say, "Don;t be amazed, need. I share with you this prayer but rather be blessed by their of thanksgiving: .actions; be inspired." I was Lord of ages past and to come, blessed and inspired by the many bless our home. Help us to see young people who participated in you present in each other and in last month's Youth all who enter through our door.

Convention; giving their Hold this family in your hand. Be Sunday afternoon to meet with us as we enter and leave our Christ in each other. I home each day. Go with us. was blessed and inspired Guide us toward the work of by my parish youth for justice and freedom. Let us reflect sacrificing their own time your light to all we meet in all we in order to serve, once do. Help us to forgive each other, again, the homeless, the to affrrm and nurture each other, hungry and the poor at to celebrate our life together. the Sacred Heart Soup Kitchen Make us good stewards of all you earlier this week. They met Jesus have endowed us with: our health, in the real world. They connected our love for each other and our with him. They did not pass him earthly goods. Give us the faith to by. . be your servants in this life and Yesterday, our nation cel- . the hope to spend eternity with ebrated Thanksgiving Day, and .you. Amen. indeed we have so much to be God bless. thankful for. We just need to stop Ozzie Pacheco is FaIth and remember all that we have Formation director at Santo been given and offer qod our 路Christo Parish, Fall River. '. !

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Bishops

OK'd a curriculum framework for developing catechetical materials for high school students, 220-0. With a 212-3 vote, they also approved a 21page set of guidelines on catechetical instruction on chaste living for students from kindergarten through 12th grade.

The bishops were briefed by the staff of the New York-based John Jay College of Criminal Justice on an ongoing study of the "causes and context" of clerical sexual abuse.

Cardinal George won the presidency on the first ballot with_188 votes, or 85 percent. He is completing his three-year term as vice presidentofthe U.S. Conference ofCatholic Bishops.

He succeeds Bishop Skylstad, whose three-year term came to an end at the close of the meeting: Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas of Tucson, Ariz., was elected vice president.

In other business the bishops voted overwh~liningly to draft a briefpolicy stateTent on embryomc stem-cell research ~~ past<;>.fal. documen~ o~! reproductive teclWqiogtes; formalized , the new USCCB structure and ap-~ prov~ a $147.7 million b~dget for!

2008 and a 16 percent reduction in the diocesan assessment to fund the USCCB; recommended annual reporting by every parish as well as exercising caution about the tradition of presuming Church employees view their work as ministry and do not need oversight.

In his last official address as USCCB president Bishop Skylstad urged a leadership style that does not measure success "moment to moment" but instead follows the example of Jesus and Blessed Mother Teresa.

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NOVEMBER

23, 2007

Highlights of USCCB fall general meeting

Continued/rom page one

ship: A Call to Political Responsibility From the Catholic Bishops of the United States."

The document rejects politics based on "powerful interests, partisan attacks, sound bites and media hype" and calls instead for "a different kind of political engagement."

The bishops also approved several liturgical agenda items: adocument on liturgical music, 183-22, with three abstentions; an English-language version of a document on weekday celebrations of the Liturgy of the Word, 19018, and a Spanish-language version, 188-16, with five abstentions; and revised readings during Lent, 199-6, with five abstentions.

The music document, "Sing to the Lord: Music in Divine Worship," had originally been proposed as a document that would have required Vatican approval and would have been binding on bishops in their dioceses.

But Bishop Donald W. Trautman of Erie, Pa., outgoing chairman of the bishops' Committee on the Liturgy, said the committee decided to recommend the document only as a guideline for bishops, not as "normative law."

In "Stewardship and Teenagers: The Challenge of Being a Disciple," approved in a 198~ vote, the bishops spelled out in simple language what young people can and should do to share their "time, talent and treasure.

They also approved a Spanish-.language brochure, 202-5; it is not a translation but was written originally, in Spanish. Both are to be circulated as brochures.

The bishops also unanimously

The Anchor ~

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BALTIMORE (CNS) - At the U.S. Conference of Catholic bishops' November 12-15 fall general meeting in Baltimore, the bishops: - received details of Pope Benedict XVI's April 15-20 visit to the United States; - authorized a new statement'on Iraq that says some U.S. policymakers "seem to fail to recognize sufficiently the reality and failures in Iraq and the imperative for new directions." The statement was issued in the name of the outgoing USCCB president, Bishop William S. Skylstad of Spokane, Wash.; - elected Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago as their new president, and Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas of Tucson, Ariz., as vice president. They had been USCCB vice president and secretary, respectively; _ - heard a briefing from staffofthe New York-based John .Jay College of Criminal Justice on an ongoing study of the "causes and context" of clerical sexual abuse, with the early research suggesting that patterns of sexual abuse within the Church are consistent with the experience of societ)"as WJ\o1e; , - voted to draft a brief policy statement on embryonic stem-cell research and a pastoral document on reproductive technologies; - approved a $147.7 million budget for 2008 and a 16 percent reduction in the diocesan assessment to fund

a

Needy

I~ .

theUSCCB; - issued the 2008 version of their quadrennial "Faithful Citizenship" election statement, which rejects politics based on "powerful interests, partisan attacks, sound bites and media hype" and calls instead for "a different kind ofpolitical engagement," and approved a bulletin-ready insert summarizing its main points; - gave their approval by a 221-7 margin to legislation specifying when a bishop must get the consent of his diocesan finance council and college of consultors before making certain financial transactions or commitments. The legislation now awaits Vatican approval; - approved several liturgical agenda items: a document on liturgical music, 183-22, with three abstentions; an English-language version of a document on weekday celebrations of the Liturgy of the Word, 190-18, and a Spanish-language version, 188-16, with five abstentions; and revised readings during Lent, 199-6, with five abstentions; - approved a curriculum framework for developing catechetical materials for high sChool students, 11797, with one abstention; - appt:O~English-language version of a document on ste'Yardship and teenagers, 198-6, and a Spanis~-language~ersion, 202-5.

J

l~()lltinued from page one

80 children.

"We're in our 10th year and are returning to providing a traditional turkey dinner with stuffing, cranberry and all the fixings again this year, because after St. Peter's bumed down on Jan. 25, 2005, we had no hall to prepare the food in," explained Yvonne Cabral-Edwards, who with Patricia Sullivan and Kathy Gonsalves, comprise the current Kitchen Angels.

A new St. Peter's is providing the needed working facility.

And as is their custom, the Angels. provide toys and clothing, and a Christmas tree along with the dinner foodstuffs.

"Using a listing of families who seek our assistance, we leam from the parent or parents what their needs are and then shop for the clothes in sizes and colors they would liky. We ieave it to the adults to personally present the gifts of toys and Clothing to their children, so that they kids don't even know we exist," Cabral-Edwards noted.

She said that in the past individual members ofthe group would use their personal credit cards to purchase everything hoping donors would make up some of what was spent.

"But currently we are receiving assistance from so many generous benefactors, markets, and department stores like Wal-Mart, arid especially from Lands End Marine which donates the Christmas trees," she said.

"Of course we could use more."

"Another great resource for us is , the Toys for Tots program conducted by the U.S. Marine Corps. So we're looking forward to making lots of people happy and aware of the gift of the Christ Child too," said CabralEdward, who is a lector and extraordinary minister of holy Communion

at St. Peter's.

At My Brother's Keeper, a volunteer Christian Ministry based in Easton and serving southeastern . Massachusetts, operations manager Erich Miller expects another heavy demand this Christmas.

"Last year at Christmas we provided food, clothing and toys for 1,725 families in 60 communities extending from Boston to Fall River, and that amounts to 6,000 people served," Miller reported.

"We're at 100 percent capacity right now and we can't answer all calls," said Miller of the specialized ministry that began in 1992 and "whose mission, our mission, is to bring the love and hope of Jesus Christ to those it serves."

The ministry includes notjust pr0viding food, but furniture and household items free ofcharge to those who seek assistance. ''It's a very personalized ministry," said Miller, "because every gift we give at ChriStnlas bears a label of the Holy Family, and an inscription that reads, "Happy Birthday, Jesus." . Miller noted that "As a remembrance to those we serve and a reminder to ourselves, we offer each family a crucifix, saying: "We're just the delivery people. This is the person who sent you the furniture."

A new twist to Christmas giving the ministry ~trives for "is making gifts available to the children to give their parents," said Miller. "Kids love to see their parents open presents too."

At St. Anthony of Padua Parish in New Bedford, Paula Bryden, director of the food pantry, said a suggestion from one of her volunteers led to a new event this Thanksgiving at which nearly 300 enjoyed dinner together.

"We invited all our volunteers -

including some from other parishes - the elderly, and single parents with children, as well as student-helpers from B.ridgewater State College to help out, and we put on a wonderful dinner," Bryden, a nurse at St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford reported.

"It was such a nice feeling because we have so many who are volunteering and donating," Bryden added.

The current effort is to prepare Christmas food baskets that include turkeys and traditional holiday foods, and toys and clothing and some household furnishings too, for those who are regulars at the parish's food pantry.

"We average 260 families a week at the pantry and that's how many we're looking forward to serving at Christmas," Bryden told The Anchor.

At Sacred Heart Parish in Fall River, a soup kitchen is in operation every Monday from 5 to 6 p.m., and this means it will be open Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve, according to its telephone message. Its food pantry is open every second and fourth Monday of the month, and this includes Christmas Eve from 4 to 5 p.m.

Many more路 Christmas outreach programs - including those by students in diocesan schools - are planned. Those include collecting canned foods; making greeting cards for those homebound and in nursing homes; and caroling.

Bishop Feehan High School in Attleboro will for the second year again help sponsor the 24th annual Christmas Holiday Dinner for the needy on Christmas Day at the South Attleboro Knights of Columbus Hall, an event founded by the "tate Ed Tedesco and Jack Hagopian. Several hundred meals are expected to be served and gifts of hats and mittens distributed, a spokesperson said.

~ The Anchor ~

23, 2007

NOVEMBER

Holy Cross Brother Madigan, 85; veteran, pastor and administrator

Around the Diocese ~...

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[iibl~~tu~y _-_

FALL RIVER - A Bible study of the Book of Genesis is scheduled for 7 p,m. Tuesdays at the Shrine of St Anne's Church at 818 Middle Street The meetings run until December 18 and then start again January 15.

J

IEucharistic Adoration

MANSFIELD - St Mary's Parish at 330 Pratt Street has exposition of the Blessed Sacrament at noon on first Fridays of the month, concluding with 6 p.m. Benediction.

WAREHAM - St. Patrick's Church at 82 High Street has eucharistic adoration on first Fridays of the month following the 8 a.m. Mass until 6 p,m., when evening prayer including the Liturgy of the Hours is recited.

Healing Service NORTH DARTMOUTH - A healing service and a Mass with anointing will be held at St Julie Billiart Church November 27 at 6 p.m.

~~~ella~~~~----_~~----l ATTLEBORO - The theme for The Festival of Lights at the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette at 947 Park Street will be "Love is Born." The festival continues until January 1 with daily illuminations from 5-9 p.m. following an opening prayer at the outdoor manger at 4:55 p.m.

ATTLEBORO - The National Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette at 947 Park Street will have its Christmas Bazaar from today until Sunday. Held in the cafeteria, the bazaar will be open from noon to 9 p.m. today and tomorrow and noon to 8 p.m. on Sunday.

EASTON - Life Teen, a Catholic movement that provides resources and faith experiences leading teens closer to God, will sponsor an event at St Joseph Chapel, 500 Washington Street, November 29 at 7 p.m, that brings together teens from different parishes for a night of prayer, praise, worship, music, preaching, and adoration. For more information call Holy Cross Family Ministries at 508-238-4095, ext 2027.

FALL RIVER - A course on Christian Spirituality is being offered on Mondays at 7 p.m. in the Shrine at Saint Anne's Church at 818 Middle Street The course runs until December 3.

FALL RIVER - Bristol Community College is seeking adults to help tutor adult immigrants to read. The commitment is two hours a week and a training session that begins November 28. For more information, call Cathy at 508-678-2811 ext. 2042.

MASHPEE - The Catholic Women's Club of Christ the King Parish will hold its annual Christmas Bazaar on December 1.

NORTH DARTMOUTH - The diocesan Office of Family Ministry will sponsor a workshop by Dorothy J. Levesque titled "Down-~izing Marital Stress ... an Advent Gift," December 5. For information or to register contact Jerry or Scottie Foley at 508-999-6420.

BROCKTON - Congregation of

Holy Cross Brother James W. Madigan, a resident ofthe Holy Cross Community at Stonehill College in Easton, died November 11 at Caritas Good Samaritan Hospital in Brockton.

From 1952 to 1967 he was treasurer and director of maintenance for the Easton Province of the Congregation in Bridgeport, Conn. Following a year in the business office of King's College in Wilkes-Barre, Penn., he served at Stonehill as business manager, director of buildings and grounds and as administrator of Holy Cross Cemetery there. Later he became assistant superior and steward at the Holy Cross Residence in ,N@lth Dartmouth and since 1980 also served as bookkeeper and pastoral assistant at Holy Cross Parish

SWANSEA - The Diocesan Council of Catholic Women will hold a meeting in the St. Louis de France parish hall at 7 p.m. on November"29.

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l!~_~~ife

WEST HARWICH - The Pro-Life Prayer Groups of Holy Trinity Parish and Holy Redeemer Parish will host a holy hour at Holy Trinity Parish, 246 Main Street, November 26 at 1 p.m. with intention for the unborn. The rosary will be followed by Benediction of the most Blessed Sacrament I

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~Support Groups -

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NEW BEDFORD - Courage, a group that helps people who are attracted to members of the same sex live chastely, and Encourage, a ministry within Courage dedicated to the spiritual needs of parents, relatives, and friends of persons with same-sex attraction, will meet on December 1 at 7 p.m. at the rectory of St James' Church at 233 County Street For more information, call Father Richard Wilson at 508-992-9408.

NORTH DARTMOUTH - Diocesan Divorced and Separated Support Group which meets in the Family Life Center at 500 Slocum Road every second and last Wednesday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. will have an open question and answer period on "Divorce in the Catholic Church" hosted by Father Gregory Mathias, director of the diocesan Office of Family Ministry.

in South Easton.

Born in Burlington, V1., the son of the late William P., and the late Rose C. (Lemay) Madigan, he served as a private in the U.S. Army's 262nd Infantry Regiment during World War

W. CSC

BROTHER JAMES

MADIGAN,

II, seeing action in North Africa and in Europe prior to an honorable discharge in April 1946.

He completed a bachelor of science degree in business administration from S1. Michael's College in Winooski, V1., in 1948. He entered the Congregation of Holy Cross in 1950 and made final profession of vows in 1954.

He leaves nephews and nieces and his brothers in the Congregation of Holy Cross. He was the brother of the late John 1. Madigan.

Because he gave his body to Tufts Medical School for research, a memorial Mass of Resurrection was celebrated November 15 at Holy Cross Church in South Easton.

The Kane Funeral Home in Easton was in charge of arrangements.

Regis Philbin donates winnings to Catholic alma mater NEW YORK (CNS) - Television personality Regis Philbin recently demonstrated that the education he received at a Catholic high school in the Bronx served him well.

He won $175,000 on the Fox TV program "Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?" and announced on the air that he would donate his' winnings to Cardinal Hayes HighSchool. The episode featured celebrities answering questions targeted at the fifthgrade level to win up to $1 million for charity.

This is not the first time Philbin has donated game-show earnings to

__In_'YQ!!f Pr~ye!] __ Please pray for these p~iests during the comi'!g weeks Nov. 26 Rev. lames R. Bums, P.R., Pastor. Sacred Heart, Fall River, 1945 Rev. Charles Porada. OFM, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, New Bedford,

2000

OSTERVILLE - Our Lady of the Assumption Women's Guild will have its Christmas Fair on December 1 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Our. Lady of Assumption, 76 Wianno Avenue.

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Nov. 27 Rt. Rev. Patrick E. McGee. Pastor, St. Mary. North Attleboro, 1948

his fonner high school. Last year, he gave the school his $50,000 prize from winning "Celebrity Jeopardy" on another special episode for celebrities to win cash for their favorite charities.

Philbin, a member of the class of '49 at Cardinal Hayes, went on to graduate from the University of Notre Dame in Indiana and has been generous to both schools. In 2000, he donated $500,000 to Cardinal Hayes to renovate the auditorium. He also led the 1995 and 1999 capital campaigns that funded a $7 million endowment and the updat-

ing of school facilities. He is honorary chainnan of the current capital campaign, "Our Future - Your Hands."

Philbin, whose early television career was in California, said that when he returned to New York he saw "the value of Hayes and what it means to the city."

He told Catholic New York, newspaper of the archdiocese, that many students from Cardinal Hayes go on to hold important positions in New York, and he said he recognizes the need for continued support of the school.

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Nov. 28 Rev. Adrien A. Gauthier. Pastor, St. Roeh, Fall River. 1959 Nov. 29 Rev. Thomas H. Shahan, Fonner Pastor, St. Mary, Taunton, 1902 Rev. Francis A. McCarthy, Pastor, St. Patrick, Somerset. 1965 Nov. 30 Rev, William J McCoomb,Pasto,r, Immaculate Conception, North Easton, 1895

Dec.!

Rev. Phillipe Ross, Chaplain, Sacred Heart Home, New Bedford, 1958 Rev. Edward I. Gonnan, Retired Pastor, St. Patrick, Somerset, 1964

Dec. 2 Rev. Arthur Savoie, Pastor, St. Hyacinth, New Bedford, 1917 Rev. Dennis W. Harrington, Assistant, St. Mary, Taunton, 1958 Rev. Stanislaus Basinski, Fonner Pastor, Holy Rosary, Taunton, 1970

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FUNERAL PLANNING

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The Anchor

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Natural family planning gets' government, insurance recognition ST. LOUIS (CNS) - The medical coding system used by the government, insurance companies, medical clinics and health care providers now includes two codes specifically for natural family planning.

Behind the push for the new codes was the American Academy of FertilityCare Professionals, a national organization that promotes the use of the Creighton Model FertilityCare System, which is used for natural family planning and women's health and infertility issues while upholding Catholic teaching.

Diane Daly, director of the Office of Natural Family Planning for the St. Louis Archdiocese and a member of the academy, headed the committee that worked several years for the new codes.

On October 1, the International Classification ofDiseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD9-CM) published the following codes for natural family planning: - V25.04: Counseling and instruction in natural family planning to avoid pregnancy; - V26.41: Procreative counseling and advice using natural family planning.

"We're excited because this is the first time in history that codes have recognized (natural family planning) as a legitimate service that can be reimbursed on its own," Daly said in an interview with the St. Louis Review, archdiocesan newspaper.

Guidelines for reporting and coding with the ICD-9-CM are made by two federal government agencies the National Center for Health Statistics and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Guidelines also are approved by the two agencies, the American Hospital Association and the American Health Information Management Association.

Daly said her committee began its work in 2004 to propose specific codes for natural family planning in the ICD-9-CM coding system. After

several years of research and preparation, Drs. Leslie Chorun and Joseph Stanford of the academy presented a proposal in March 2006 in Baltimore to the Coordination and M~tenance Committee. The committee is made up of representatives from the National Center for Health Statistics and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Chorun said more than 200 people from across the United States and several other countries wrote in support of the proposal during a public coinment period.

"In December 2006, we found out that they were leaning toward" approving the proposal, according to Daly. ''Then we leamed through their .

Website that they were going to publish the codes in October 2007."

Daly explained the codes also have opened a door for Catholic dio- BACK IN ROME - Pope Benedict XVI prays next to relics of St. Therese of Lisieux at the ceses around the country who already Vatican November 1,4. The relics ~ere brought to Rome by the bishop of Bayeux, France, to mark the 120th anniversary of St. Therese's trip to Rome at the age of 15. On that trip, St. do not cover natural family planning Therese asked Pope Leo XIII for permission to enter the Carmelite order. (CNS photo/ in their insurance plans for diocesan L'Osservatore Romano via Reuters) . employees.

In September Cardinal Justin Rigali of Philadelphia, chairman of the U.S. bishops' Committee for ProLife Activities, sent a letter to his felCHIMPAY, Argentina (CNS) More than 200,000 people atIn his homily, Cardinal low bishops asking them to consider . tended the ceremony; they inA top Vatican official beatified Bertone, a Salesian, said Blessed coverage' of natural family planning cluded the country's vice presiCeferino Namuncura, the son of Namuncura never forgot he was in their diocesan health insurance dent, Daniel Scioli, and nearly a Mapuche Indian chief who ema Mapuche and that his goal "was policies in light of the new codes.

100 Latin American bishops. to serve his people."

His example braced Catholicism in the 19th ''The publishing ofthe ICD-9-CM century.

Blessed Namuncura already shows that the richness of the codes for natural family planning The Vatican secretary of state, enjoyed a popular, saintlike staGospel "never destroys the aumeans that health insurance compathentic values of a culture; rather, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, presided tus among the Argentine poor.

He nies can easily cover education over the November 11 beatification was a Salesian novice when he the evangelical message takes on classes in the methods ofnatural famthese values, purifies them, perMass in Blessed Namuncura's died of tuberculosis in Rome in ily planning," Cardinal Rigali wrote. fects them." hometown of Chimpay.

1905 at the age of 18.

Daly noted that academy's committee conducted a sample survey earlier this year and found that eight U.S. dioceses were offering some kind of insurance coverage of natural family planning for its employees. In addition to St. Louis, they were the dioceses of Wichita, Kan.; Lincoln, Neb.; Duluth, Minn.; Columbus, Ohio; LaCrosse, Wis.; St. Cloud, Minn.; and Crookston, Minn.

Cardinal beatifies Argentine Mapuche known for serving his people and poor

NFP Couples Most newly married Catholic couples in the U.S. do not participate in natural family planning classes.

13,200 newly married individuals who took a class in NFP

199~800 total number of Catholic " ". marriages in 2006

Source: Diocesan DevElopment Program for Naturat FamUy Planning. USCCB

02lJ07CNS

POP~LAR FIGURE -:- A M~puche Indian. sprinkles holy water during the beatification ceremony of Cefenno Namuncura In Chlmpay, Argentina, November 11. A likeness of Blessed Namuncura a Mapuche Indian born in 1886, is seen in the statue at left. (CNS photolYamii Regules, Reuters)' -