12.18.98

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t eanc 0 VOL. 42, NO. 49 • Friday, December 18, 1998

FALL RIVER DIOCESAN NEWSPAPER FOR SOUTHEAST MASSACHUSETTS CAPE COD & THE ISLANDS Southeastern Massachusetts' Largest Weekly • $14 Per Year

FALL RIVER, MASS.

Bishop's Christmas message urges faith renewal ~

Bishop Sean P. O'Malley will remember his diocesan flock at Christmas Mass

Beloved Faithful in Christ In the Gospel of John 3: 16, the ev~ngelist writes: 'For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in Hint might not perish but might have eternal life.'

In this year devoted to God our Father, I pray that we may open our hearts to Jesus, the Word made flesh, the loving embrace of our God. May this season be an occasion to renew you and your families in our faith in .,r,. ·t God who has kept His prom. ise to be with us always.

I assure you of a remembrance in prayer at Christmas Mass.

Devotedly yours in Christ,

#~~e,Bishop of Fall River

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FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT

Recalling Christ's birth in Bethlehem is at the heart of late Advent's scriptural message.

By JAMES N. DUNBAR

NATIVITY SCENE - Students from St. Stanislaus School, Fall River, prepare for its annual Nativity pageant. The production included narration, song and carols. Pictured (from left) are: Christopher Camara, Bryan Travis, Joshua LaCroix, Stephen DaSilva, Samantha Stone, Abby LeClair, Carissa Kennedy, Jarred Palmer, Jared Bruneau, Ryan Homen and Matthew Rodgers.

(Anchor/Gordon photo)

FALL RIVER - The blessing of thousands of Nativity scene figurines by Pope John Paul II at the Vatican early this week reminds us that the holy season's focus of the scriptural readings is changing for us.

From the first Sunday ofAdvent, the daily readings keyed on the end times, the second coming of Christ in the parousia, and we were warned to "Stay awake" because we don't know when the Lord will come and that we should repent, pray and be prepared.

That thought leads us to the second focus of the season as on Thursday, the Scripture texts began to direct our thoughts towards the celebration of the feast of Christ's birth at Bethlehem.

The pope's annual blessing as children held up small statues of baby Jesus underscored the vitality of the "praesepio" tradition in Italy, where Christmas creche dis-

plays originated more than 750 years ago.

Before leaving the parish of Santa Giulia Billiart, the pope asked the children to distinguish between "good joys, which always leave peace in the heart and love in the air, and abusive joys, which sometimes hurt people."

Despite the secular overtones of the season, the word "Christmas" underscores its profound Christian and spiritual significance. It has been used in English-speaking countries since the Middle Ages. The word comes to us from the Old English Cristes Maesse, or "Mass of Christ." It is the celebration of the history-shaking mystery of God assuming his manhood and living among us.

Actually, the primitive Church seems to have had little or no interest in the actual date orcircumstal1ces of Jesus' birth. A higher priority was Christians' expectation of an immediate end to the world and a final coming of Christ. They celebrated the mystery of Christ's resurrection weekly and annually a few hundred years before a tradition of commemorating his birth become popular.

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THE ANCHOR -

Diocese of Fall River -

"

Fri., Dec. 18, 1998

_ not be pri~ted during Cllristmas week, but will return to your door by New Year's Day, January 1, 1999.

MASS-AND DEVOTIONS .

The Anchor will

to

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Dec. 25

Dec. 26

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'Dec. 27

Dec. 28 Dec. 29

CHRISTMAS BLESSINGS

Dec. 30 Dec. 31

TO OUR SUBSCRIBERS, ADVERTISERS AND FRIENDS

the ancho,:s,

Jan.

This message sponsored by the following business concerns in the Diocese of Fall River WALSH PHARMACY • GILBERT C. OLIVEIRA INSURANCE AGENCY GLOBE MANUFACTURI;\jG COMPANY • DURO FINISHING CORPORATION

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TAUNTON Thaddeus with a staff mentor and participate Figlock was recently named the in orientation and training sessions.

"There is a lot of potential for new director of volunteers and community development at Marian volunteerism here. Both Marian Manor. The Taunton Manor and Bethany resident has served House Adult Day on area committees Health Care are colto plan fundraising orful, vibrant setevents and has many tings that need years of community people in the comservice and vol unmunity to keep them teer experience. vibrant. These are According to loving and caring Figlock, there are communities of resimany volunteer opdents, sta::f, families and volunteers." portunities to meet a variety of interests said Figlock. He also and schedules at GLOCK hopes to develop an Marian Manor. Vol- THADDEUS FI award and recogniunteers are needed to transport resi- tion program at the home.

Figlock holds a bacbelor's dedents to and from daily Mass, to visit with residents individually, to help gree in English from Providence nurses and aides make beds, put College and is enrolled in the away laundry or deliver newspapers.. Lesley College School 0:: Manage- They also welcome volunteers ment master's degree program. in the pastoral care department and For more information on vol undiocesan trained Eucharistic min- teer opportunities call him at 822isters. All volunteers are paired 4885.

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In Your, Prayer's

Daily Readings Dec. 21

Dec. 22

ROOFING • SIDING • WINDOWS

Marian Manor hires new dirlector

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Sg 2:8-14 or Zp " 3:14-18a; Ps 33:23,11-12,20-21; Lk 1:39-45 1 Sm 1:24-28; (Ps) 1 Sm 2:1,4-7, 8abcd; Lk 1:46-56 Mal 3:1-4,23-24; Ps 25:4bc-5ab,8- 10, , 14; Lk 1:57-66 2 Sm 7: 1-5,8b-12, 14a,16; Ps 89:25,27,29; Lk 1:67-79 (Vigil) Is 62: 1-5; Ps 89:4-5,16-17,27,29; Acts ~ 3:16-17,2225; Mt 1:1-25 or 1:18-25 , (Midnight) Is 9:1-6; Ps 96:1-3, 11-13;Ti 2:11-14; Lk 2:1~14 (Dawn) Is 62:11-12; Ps 97: 1,6,11-12; Ti 3:4-7; Lk 2:15-20 (Day) Is 52:7-10; , Ps 98:1-6; Heb 1:16; In 1:1-18 or 1:15,9-14 Acts 6:8-10;7:5459; Ps 31 :3cd4,6,8ab,16bc-17; Mt 10:17-22 Sir 3:2-6,12-14; Ps 128:1-5; CoI3:1221 or3:12-17; Mt 2:13-15,19-23 1 In 1:5-2:2; Ps 124:2-5,7b-8; Mt 2:13-18 1 In 2:3-11; Ps 96: 1-3,5b-6; Lk 2:22-35 1 In 2:12-17; Ps 96:7-10; Lk2:36-40 1 In 2:18-21; Ps 96:1-2,11-13; In 1:1-18 Nm 6:22-27; Ps 67:2-3,5-6,8; Gal 4:4-7; Lk 2:16~21 1 In 2:22-28; Ps 98:1-4; In 1:19-28 Is 60:1-6; Ps 72:2, 7-8,10-13; Eph 3:23a,5-6; Mt2:1-12

11111111111111111111111111111 THE ANCHOR (USPS-545-D20) Periodical Postage Paid at Fall River, Mass. Published weekly except for the first two weeks in July aOO the week after Chrisimas at 887 Highland Averrue, Fall River, Mass. 02720 by the Catholic Press ofthe Diocese ofFall River. Subscription price by mail, postpaid $14.00 per year.

Postmasters send address changes to The Anchor. P.O. Box 7, Fall River, MA 02722.

Please pray for-the following priests during the coming week NECROLOGY December 21 1968, Rev. Henri J. Charest, Pastor, St. Mathieu, Fall Rivt:r 1986, Rev. Manuel M. Resendes 1989, Rev. Laureano C. dos Reis, Pastor Emeritus, St. Anthony of Padua, Fall River

December 22 1991, Rev. Armand P. Paradis, S.1., Psychologist, San Francisco, California

December 23 1901, Rev. Owen J. Kiernan, Pastor, Immaculate Conception, Fall River , 1947, Rev. Charles P. Trainor, SS, St. Edward Seminary, S~attle, Washington 1970, Rev. Msgr. John A. Silvia, Pastor Emeritus, SI. John Baptist, New Bedford 1986, Rev. William E. Collard, Cochaplain, Catholic Memorial llome, Fall River

December 24 1886, Rev. James K. Beaven, Pastor, Sacred Heart, Taunton 1914, Rev. Timothy 1. Duff, Assistant, SI. Joseph, Woods Hole

December 27 1956, Rev. Thomas J. Stapleton, Pastor, Corpus Christi, ~:andwich ' 1970, Rev. Msgr. Armand Levasseur, Pastor Emeritus, SI. Anne, New Bedford 1995, Rev. Manuel Andrade, Catholic Memorial Home, Fall River

December 28 1955, Rev. Charles R. Smith, Pastor, Immaculate Concepjon, Fall River 1987, Rev. Edward J. Sharpe, Pastor, SI. Patrick, Somerset; Rev. Clement Paquet, O.P., Assistant, SI. Anne, Fall River

December 30 1991, Rev. Thomas C. Mayhew, Pastor, Our Lady of MI. Car:nel, Seekonk January 1 1955, Rev. Jose Valeiro"Pastor, SI. Elizabeth, Fall :{iver 1956, Rev. Antonio M. Fortuna, Pastor, Immaculate Conception, New Bedford 1968, Rev. Francis R. Connerton, 5S.STD., St. John's Seminary, Plymouth, Michigan ' 1975, ~ev. !.Al0 T. Sullivan, Pastor, Holy Name, New Bedford, . ~

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PRIESTS CURRENTLY SERVING

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December December December December December December December December December December December January I January 2 January 3

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Rev. Rev. Rev. Rev. Rev. Rev. Rev. Rev. Rev. Rev. Rev. Rev. :Rev. Rev.

Msgr. Thomas 1. Harrington George E. Harrison Edward J. Healey Gabriel Healy, SSCC Gerard A. Hebert William Heffron, SSCC Herna~do Herrera, YA Mark R. Hession Richard.Hockman, CSC Msgr. Daniel F. Hoye, VE Daniel J. Issing, CSC Louis Jo~;eph· Andre P. Jussaumc Lucien Jusseaume

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Cardinal Law celebrates 25th anniversary as bishop

THE ANCHOR -

Diocese of Fall River -

Fri., Dec. 18, 1998

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in his keynote address on "Priestly Ministry on the Eve of the 21st Century."

Cardinal Law thanked Bishop BOSTON - An assembly of all the parish priests in the Boston Banks and the other presenters at Archdiocese and back-to-back the convocation.

Masses and celebrations high"The past has been rich, the lighted a weeklong series of com- present is fulfilling arid challengmemorations of the silver anniver- ing, and together we face the future sary of Cardinal Bernard F. Law's with great hope," he said, adding, "I can't wait to ordination as a r""--.r"~'IlI(II!lI"".nr see what the bishop.

As Cardinal Lotd will do."

Law blessed At the and lighted the assembly's closmassive Ading Mass at the Cathedral of vent wreath in the grand ballthe Holy Cross, room of the Cardinal Law Park Plaza Howas presented tel, he conwith a metrovened the Dec. pqlitan cross 1-2 Assembly and procesof Priests in the sional candles final stage of - a gift from mill e n n i a I the priests of pre par a t ion the archdiocese dedicated to which will reGod the Father. main in the caThe assemthedral for generations to bly marked the beginning of CARDINAL LAW come. several events On Dec. 5, leading to the silver jubilee obser- Cardinal Law marked his 25th anniversary of episcopal ordination vance of the cardinal's 25th anniwith a Mass celebrated at the caversary as a bishop.

Some 700 priests joined with the thedral attended by a host of cardicardinal to explore th(: theme, ''The nals and bishops from across the Priesthood of Jesus Christ - Yes- country.

Also in attendance were U.S. terday, Today and Forever."

"To be a good priest in the new Sens. Edward Kennedy and John Kerry, along with Boston Mayor millennium, be as good a priest today as you can be," advised Bishop Thomas Menino and Massachusetts Robert 1. Banks of Green Bay, Wis., Gov. A. Paul Cellucci.

By FATHER JOSEPH O'BRIEN CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

In honor of the cardinal's anniversary, The Pilot, newspaper of the Archdiocese of Boston, published a 144-page commemorative edition.

The 67-year-old cardinal, a graduate of Harvard, was born in Torreon, Mexico, and ordained a priest of the Diocese of NatchezJackson, Miss., in 1951.

Ordained a bishop on Dec. 5, 1973, he served from 1973-84 as bishop 'of Springfield-Cape Girardeau, Mo., and was named archbishop of Boston in 1984.

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THE ANCHOR - Diocese of Fall River":- Fri., Dec. 18, 1998. ,

the moorins......,

the living word

Now is the time This year our Christmas celebration takes on special meaning as we close the century and prepare for the new millennium. Our Holy Father has taken this occasion to promulgate a document officially pronouncing the year 2000 as a Holy Year. The ,dates established are December 24, 1999, ~9 January 6, 2001. As'is the custom, the document has been sent to the four major basilicas in Rome: St. Peter's, St. Paul~s, St. John's and St. Mary Major.

Thus this Christmas ushers in the proximate preparations for next year's Holy Year, which will begin on Christmas Eve. First and foremost, these preparations will set the stage for the central position of Christ as we begin the new century. The Incarnation is the measure of all time here on Earth, which was changed for all ages because of this great ev<?nt.

So it is very important for all of us as followers of Christ to make His presence a priority in our lives. The time is now at hand to prepare for His coming, not merely at Christmas but, as the Advent liturgy recalls, at His second coming. The pope notes in his Holy Year document that "The expected day of the corning should not bring for the Christians a flight from the world or a passive attitude in the face of daily problems." He urges all Christ's followers to be mindful that the period before the Lord's fmal coming should be a time for Christians to work harder for human progress in such a way that they can better face daily problems with an optimistic mind-set.

It is this hopeful note that should motivate us as we celebrate this coming of the Lord and prepare for the Holy Year.

As the pope reflected, "There have been signs of hope for society in the last half of this century that should motivate Christians to create a just world in the coming millennium." In our world, which is marked by growing economic, cultural and political interdependence, the challenge is to bring about a sense of unity and solidarity that: will make everyone more aware of the needs and interests of others. What better time to reflect on this goal than at this holy season of Christmas?

Knowing how much the inhabitants of planet Earth depend on one another, the pope urges us to build a civilization of love. This past century has in many ways been the very opposite of such a civilization. Many wars, the Holocaust, Communism and racial, religious and tribal conflicts have scarred humanity for the past hundred years. We have had very little ,love for each other. Our hope is now that we will be spared these horrors in the new mille'nnium.

Safeguarding peace by means of justice for all peoples is the constant teaching of the Church. Christmas is in the fullest sense a time to remind us that we must be people of goodwill in order to ensure peace on Earth. Without such motivation, celebrations of Christmas have little meaning. Each of us in his or her own sphere must work for peace in our lives and our neighborhoods.

So many people seem to think that their lives ,are a mere dress rehearsal in preparation for some nebulous future. Too, often such people wake up as life is at its end and it's then too late.

Then the challenge for each of us is to be a peacemaker in his or her own home, at work and at church, here and now.

The Incarnation in all its humanity is the mystery of divinity.

That is also true of all human life from the womb to the tomb. It reflects the mystery of Christ in whose image we are created; but in many ways our selfishness has ied u~ away from this truth. For many, living has become debased, devoid of ethics and morals, and the dignity of the human person haS in many cases been flawed by the urge to self-fulfillment and gratification. Responsibility and accountability are concepts that are fast disappearing from our social orOer as chaotic living becomes for too many the standard life pattern.

Christmas' tells us to take time to bring sense to our living.

Our hope for the third millennium will not be fulfilled if we fail to trust and have confidence in the present. If our tomorrows are to be filled with peace, we must work at that in our todays.

Take the time now to evaluate yourself and set a steady course for all the days to come.

The Editor

theancho~

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

EDITOR

GENERAL MANAGER

NEWS EDITOR

Rev. John F. Moore

Rosemary Dussault

James N. Dunbar

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L£A,'AY PRESS -

FALL R.'YEA

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CHRIST'S BIRTH WAS RECALLED THROUGH THE SINGING OF HYMNS AND CAROLS BY STUDENTS AT ST. MARY'S SCHOOL, NEW BEDFORD, IN A HOLIDAY PROGRAM, "FOLLOW THE STAR," PRESENTED RECENTLY TO PARENTS AND THE PARISH COMMUNITY. FROM LEFf ARE KATELYN DESROSIERS, CRISTINA CARRIER, SUSANA NUNES, MATTHEW BRAGA, BRANDON GIROUARD, JOSEPH PEPINAND ANDREW DEMELLO.

"The simple shepherds heard the voice of an angel and found their Lamb; the wise men saw the light of a star and found their Wisdom." - Archbishop Fulton J. Sheel1l

This season's real message

By FATHER JOHN CATOIR CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

I came across a marvelous quote from an anonymous medieval author. It has an interesting bearing on this holiday season's message.

"You are called tO'be holy with :;til your heart, mind and soul; but if because of weakness you cannot be holy, then at least be good with all your heart, mind and soul.

"However, if you cannot b~ good because of overpowering temptations, then at least be wise with all your heart, mind and soul.

But alas if you cannot even be wise because of your sinful nature, then bow deeply before the Lord and beg for his mercy with all your heart, mind and soul.

"If you do this with humility and with a confident spirit, you will soon become aware of the tenderness of God's love for you, and you will become wise and good and holy." .

The real message of the Christmas season gets lost in all the frantic rush. This real message is hidden in the indescribable humility of the Christ child. Jesus teaches us to love the Father by ,submitting to his will. From the moment of his conception, Jesus surrendered to his Father's wilL We often hear the words, "God so loved the world that he gave his only Son,"(Jn 3: 16) but his Son had to be willing to accept his mission.

His surrender was an act oflove from the very beginning - love for the Father and for us. His humble submission in becoming a human child serves as a model for us. The spirit of self-giving is his gift to us.

I have 'searched the Scriptures to find out how this example of humility can help us to grow more in the love of God. It was in the 12Step Program ofAlcoholics Anonymous that I found an answer. I had seen it many times before, but I failed to grasp its full impact. Surrender i~ at the heart of that program too.

Here is a synopsis of the basic elements of the 12 steps to serenity and sobriety: "Realize that you are powerless, and surrender yourself to your higher power. Ask the God of your understanding to show you the way to freedom and light. Admit your wrongdoing. Have a firm purpose of amendment. Pray to know God's will, and pray for the grace to follow it. Help others, and become a 'carrier of God's love."

These words summarize the Gospel that Jesus preached so effectively. , As you may know, I am presently the executive director of a drug and

alcohol treatment center. The: men and women in treatment use the 12Step Program every day. It is a map of life, telling them how to live and love.

The II th step reads as follows: "Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God, as we under~.tood him, praying only for the knowledge of his will for us and the power to carry that out."

Pray "for a knowledge of his will" this holiday season. The spirit of surrender will bring you closer' to the heart of Jesus, and in him you will find your peace and your joy.

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fteering pOintf Publicity Chairmen are asked to submit news items for this column to The Anchor, P.O. Box 7, Fall River, 02722. Name of city or town should be included, as well as full dates of all activities.

DEADLINE IS NOON ON MONDAYS. Events published must be of interest and open to our general readership. We do not normally carry notices offundraising activities, which may be advertised at our regular rates, obtainable from our business office nt (508) 6757151.

ATTLEBORO _. The 46th annual Christmas Festival of Lights is in progress at La Salette Shrine now through Jan. 3, beginning each night at 5 p.m. In addition to the thousands of lights, the shrine also features an indoor display of nativity sets and daily Christmas concerts by Father Pat at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. An additional show is offered at 5:30 p.m. on the weekends. All welcome.

CENTERVILLE - Pax Christi of Cape Cod will hold its monthly meeting on Dec. 21 from 7:30 p.m. to 9: 15 p.m. at Our Lady ofVictory Parish.

DARTMOUTH --- A pilgrimage with Bishop Sean P. O'Malley to Washington D.C. for the annual March For Life is being organized by the Pro-Life Apostolate for Jan. 21-23. It will include Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. For more information call the apostolate office at 997-2290.

FAIRHAVEN - The Spiritual Life Commission of St. Mary's Parish will present an Advent Prayer Service and social on Dec. 20 from 6-9 p.m. All welcome.

FALL RIVER --- Bristol Elder Services, Inc., is in search of volunteers to visit local nursing homes and advocate for residents. Companions are needed to help elders through the winter and the Meals on Wheels progrmn needs both regular and substitute drivers. For more information on how you can help call 675-2101 or 1-800-427-2101.

carols and accompaniment by trumpet, organ and bells. All welcome.

F~LLRIVER- The Fall River

Diocesan Choir will hold a rehearsal on Jan. 5 at 7 p.m. in the choir room of S1. Mary's Cathedral Parish Center in preparation for the upcoming diaconal ordination. All welcome.

MANSFIELD - The St. Mary's Parish Music Ministry Program is in need of a cello and set of bagpipes. If you can donate such items please contact Fran McMillan at 339-0091 or Joe Primo at 339-4749.

MASHPEE - A young adult prayer group meets on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the chapel of Christ the King Parish. For more information call Heather Kirby at 548-2364.

NEW BEDFORD -

The Our

Lady of Perpetual Help Church prayer group will meet on Dec. 22 at 1 p.m. for recitation of the Divine Mercy Chaplet, prayer, reflection, a Marian talk, recitation of the rosary and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. All welcome.

NEW BEDFORD - Catholic Social Services, 59 Rockland Street, is seeking clothes and toys for boys and girls ages 2-14 as well as food donations for needy families. For more information, call Joseph Andrade at 997-7337.

NORTH DARTMOUTH-The Oncology Center is holding several free support group meetings this winter. Pathways meets on Fridays from 1-2:30 p.m. and is for individuals diagnosed with advanced cancer. Opportunity, a post-treat-

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ment support group for women, meets on Thursdays from 4-5:30 p.m. For more information calI Mary Peterson at 979-5858.

SWANSEA ' - A gathering of local Catholic Fraternal Services Organization members will be held on Jan. 6 at 7 p.m. in the St. Louis de France Church halI, 58 Buffington Street. Learn what they can do for you and your family. Refreshments wilI be served.

All welcome. For more information call Charlie Pelissier at 6724325.

WAREHAM - The Sacred Hearts Fathers will hold a Christmas open house at the Retreat Center, 226 Great Neck Road, on Dec. 20 from 4-6 p.m. It will include carols and refreshments. All welcome.

millennium eollectables

by Roman Celebrate the next 1,000 years of peace and joy with

FALL RIVER- St.Mary'sCathedral is holding its annual Christmas carol sing-along on Dec. 27 at 3 p.m. The hour -long program will feature both English and Spanish

The Millennium Collection from the Annunciation to Jesus' birth.

This collection beautifully depicts Mary as a young mother with her newborn son.

Christmas Masses will be bt;oadcast FALL RIVER - Bishop Sean P. O'Malley will be principal celebrant of the Christmas Mass to be televised on WLNE-TV, ABC Channel 6, on Christl11as morning, 9-10 p.m. It will be delayed broadcast of the Christmas Vigil Mass celebrated at 4 p.m., on Christmas Eve at St. Anne Church.

Also, the Christmas Midnight Mass to be celebrated by Bishop O'Malley at St. Anthony of Padua Church will be aired on the Portuguese Channel at 4:30 p.m., on Christmas Day. The Portuguese Channel is carried by

THE ANCHOR - Diocese of Fall River - Fri., Dec. 18, 1998

many cable television systems in the area.

Bishop celebrates Mass at House of Correction

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DARTMOUTH - Bishop Sean P. O'Malley celebrated Mass and delivered a homily when he made his traditional Christmas season visit to the inmates of the Dartmouth House of Correction Dec. 17. The Mass was preceded by a concert.

FRAriCISCAri ITALY April 22 - May 3 with

Biblical Scholar Fr. Steve Doyle. O.F.M. Florence, Mount Alvernia, Assisi, Carceri, Greccio, Rome with Papal Audience

Other, Pilgrimages 1999 Footsteps of: Moses: Egypt with Nile Cruise February 5-15 St. Paul: Greece & Turkey May 18-31 & Sept. 14-27 Jesus: Holy Land March 4-15, June 28-July 8, November 11-22

JUBILEE 2000 Four Pilgrimages to Rome & Holy Land February 29-March 14 â&#x20AC;˘ March 19-April 1 November 5-18 â&#x20AC;˘ November 26-December 9

Pilgrimage Office of 51. Anthony Shrine 100 Arch St., Boston, Massachusetts 02110 Phone: 1-617-542-6440 x139 Fax: 542-4225.

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The Pastoral Staff of St. Stan's School and Parish wishes one and all

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Swiat!"

A Blessed Christmas Holiday Season!

Christmas Liturgies at St. Stanislaus Parish. Fall River. Mil Sacrament of Reconciliation: Saturday. Dec. 19 - 3-4 p.m.

Monday. Dec. 21 - 4-6 p.m. & 7:30-8 p.m.

Christmas Eve: 10-11 a.m.

Christmas Eucharists: Dczc. 24 - Vigil Mass of Christmas - 4:30 p.m.

Dczc. 24 - Midnight Mass -10:30 p.m.

Dczc. 25 - Christmas Mass at Dawn 8 a.m. (bilingual: PoIshjEngIish) Solemn Christmas Eucharist -10 a.m.

Traditional "Carols-by-Candlelight"

Christmas Evening Prayer at 6 p.m.

Includes congregational carols, meditation, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament & Benediction.

Everyone is Welcome!

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THE ANCHOR -

Diocese of Fall River -

Fri., Dec. 18, 1998 .

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May the light of Christ fill our hearts during this holy s~ason of Christmas and throughout the new year.

Walsh Pharmacy' .

202 Rock Street Fall River, MA 508-679-1300 .Fax: 508-678-6796

Thomas Pasternak, R.Ph. Consultant Pharmacists for Nursing Homes • Prescription Specialists

:May the rove of home andfami{y 6e yours to cherish at the mirac[e of Christmas.

Boas Festas Merry Christmas St. flntfiony

ofPadua Parisfi Pamify Pa{{1?jver

(Rgv.'Jolin ?dartin, Pastor

Wisconsin nuns work to salvage Nicaraguan bean planting season

By AMANDA Lacy

The beans are planted in December and the crop feeds 40 rural communities, an estimated 2,000 families. But this year, the December planting might not happen.

are not available in the United States, so Sister Zelten was relying on getGREEN BAY, Wis. - While ting enough donations by the middle most Americans are trying to figure of December to cover the cost of out what gifts to buy each other this buying seeds from another South Christmas, the people of NicaAmerican country. ragua are trying to figure out The past two crops were deBeyond the usual i/iT7povetished stroyed by El Nino, and with where they will get their next meal. conditions, the qevastaWon the recent damage caused by Beyond the usual impovMitch, the seed caused by Hurricane Mitch has Hurricane erished conditions, the devasbank was depleted. made the situation even mote'dire. tation caused by Hurricane "Provisions for the plantMitch has made the situation ing of the beans would supeven more dire.

"This planting is so crucial be- port the agricultural economy and But the Franciscan Sisters of the cause the bean is one of their staple address the long-term food needs Holy Cross at Bay Settlement in the foods," Sister Laura Zelten told The in the country," said Sister Sally Green Bay Diocese have an idea Compass, Green, Bay's diocesan Ann Brickner, president of the Bay buy bean seeds for Nicaragua. newspaper.

Beans are one of the most imporThe bean seed costs $100 per 100 ' tant crops in 'the Central American pounds, and 100,000 pounds of country. seed are needed. But the bean seeds CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

F€>RE'

THE>UGHT

THE ANCHOR -

Diocese of Fall River -

Settlement Franciscans. The money collected for bean seeds was to be sent directly to Nicaragua to the parish in charge of the seed bank.

"We are also working to put a roof over their heads," she noted.

The flooding caused by Hurricane Mitch destroyed more than 3,500 houses and damaged another

Fri., Dec. 18, 1998

1,500. So the Franciscans are seeking donations to buy 56,000 sheets of corrugated zinc roofing to rebuild homes.

Donations can be sent to the Franciscan Sisters of the Holy Cross, 3025 Bay Settlement Rd., Green Bay, WI 54311. Designate which project the aid is for.

MAILING SERVICES

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THE ANCHOR - Diocese of Fall River - Fri., Dec. 18, 1998

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Father carves Nativity sets in IneInory of his daughter By' MARY"GRIECO . CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

OUR LADY'S RELIGIOUS STORE Mon. - Sat. 10:00 - 5:30 PM

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[XJ@]\\!7® @] [ID~®~~®@] ~GD[J~!)~m@~ @mJ@ @] ~[J@cs®oaD~~®@] ~@w t7®@][fQ ~®~D~ ~@a@~ ® @01J@ ~@\\!7@ t¥$®w~@~a@ @]® a@@]@ @ ~[f@]~@ ® l0®OTIOQ

The Very Reverend Henry S. Arruda, V.F~, Pastor

Parochial Vicars.' Rev. Michael M. Camara, Rev. Marek S. Tuptynski In Residence: Rev. Antonino C. Tavares· Deacons: Mr. Paul J. Macedo, Mr. Abflio A. Pires Seminarian: Timothy Driscoll .

CHRISTMAS '98 MASSES: a)

b)

II

December 24th (Vigil) - 5:00 p.m. (English) 11:30 p.m. -Advent/Christmas Organ/Choir Concert, followed by Solemn MIDNIGHT MASS • MISSA do GALO (Bilingual); Christmas Day: NO 7:00 a.m. Mass; 8:30 a.m. (Bilingual); 10:00 a.m. (portuguese); 11:30 a.m. (English); NO Evening Mass!

NEW YEAR'S MASSES: a) b)

December 31st (Vigil) - 5:00 p.m. (English) followed by Solemn "TE DEUM"; New Year's Day: NO 7:00 a.m. Mass; 8:30 a.m.

(Bilingual); 10:00 a.m. (Portuguese); 11:30 a.m. (English) and 5:00 p.m. (English)

"-:::::===================================================================================================:=:::::/

Catholic Church pledges $5M for Central America By

ROBERT O'STEEN CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

MIAMI - In a move larger in size and purpose than any other in its history, the Catholic Church's global charities network has pledged a half-billion dollars to help rebuild the infrastructure of Central America and to reshape unjust social structures that network leaders say vastly increased the damage wrought by Hurricane Mitch.

They envision no less than creating an entire region that promotes justice and dignity of the people, a project never before attempted by the Church.

At a recent press conference at the Archdiocese of Miami Pastoral Center, members of the Caritas network of Catholic relief agencies worldwide announced a long-term rehabilitation strategy that will contribute $500 million to the region over the next five years.

"In addition to the harm done," said Bishop Priamo Tejeda Rosario, president of Caritas Latin America, "natural disasters have also the positive effect of unveiling the reality of our poor, the inequalities of our system in Latin America and the injustices of our structures."

Given the conditions in Latin America today, he said, the Catholic Church is the only one with the credibility a.nd experi-

ence to lead that process, one which "must not make the mistakes of the past."

"We must avoid new forms of colonialism," he said.

One of the keys to a restructuring process that eliminates inequities, said Bishop Tejeda, is to have local people making the decisions about their own rebuilding so they are not "excluded" anymore.

One example of inequity is the

poor people who lived in shacks near riverbanks because they had nowhere else to go. They were the ones who were swept away first.

"That is the reason this storm has become the worst in anyone's memory," Bishop Tejeda said.

"We can offer help from the outside with technical aspects and donations, but they have to lead their own process."

He said all funds will go

Eucharistic Ho'y Hour and devotions to Our Lady of LaSa'ette and Divine Mercy are he'd every ~ednesday evening at 1: I 5 p.m.

EasternTelevision

in the People's Chapel at LaSalette Shrine 941 Park St. ·Attleboro

THE ANCHOR -Diocese of Fall-River --Fri., Dec. 18, 1998 through the Church, not governments, and will be monitored by the Church.

Christine Tucker, Catholic Relief Services' regional director for

Hope your Christmas is bright with love and warmth.

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ur Parish Family i~, '3", ", 1-I".y l af,.,

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Christmas 8o~ and Cl\.,ew Year's SJ?eace SAINT ELIZABETH SETON PARISH • NORTH FALMOUTH

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REV. JOHN F. MOORE, PASTOR • DEACON PAUL ROMA

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THE ANCHOR -

Diocese of Fall River - Fri., Dec. 18, ~ 998

,

,

'The Prince of Egypt': The kudos are cODling early'

By HENRY HERX CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

, h ' , ' I y' ture cartoon wit ImagInatIve told fairy tales that were universal NEW YORK - Hollywood in appeal and beloved by family movie animation comes of age in audiences. the biblical spectacle, "The Prince A later generation of Disney aniof Egypt" (DreamWorks). . mators led by Jeffrey Katzenberg Walt Disney pioneered the fea- used increasingly sophisticated ,

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" ' ammatlOn tec h mques to te II" stones children could enjoy but with another level aimed at adult viewers.

With "The Prince of Egypt," Katzenberg uses state-of-the-art animation to unfold a serious, often intense, narrative without the usual comic relief and sentimental hokum to help youngsters catch their breath along the way.

The movie follows the essence of the Bible story as God selects Moses (voice ofVal Kilmer) to lead his people from bondage, then strikes the Egyptians with a series of plagues until they relent.

The final plague is depicted as a deadly swirl of light which kills the flfst=born son in all Egyptian homes but passes over those of the Israelites who have marked their doors with lamb's blood, ,. The movie's final sequence is its highlight as the Red Sea is parted into walls of water, allowing the Is-

': to pass, t en hswa ' II oWing . th e rae I'Ites pursuing Egyptians.

The final image, however, is that of Moses looking down from a mountain height on the assembled Israelites, with two tablets tucked under his arm.

In presenting this Bible story, the movie leaves its religious meaning and significance for the viewer to discern.

The movie's dramatic center is the human conflict between the pharaoh's own son, Rameses (voice of Ralph Fiennes), and his adopted son, Mos~s.

Raised as brothers, their madcap youth comes to an end when Moses learns he is an Israelite, identifies with hisoppressed people and flees to freedom in the desert.

There is a riveting sequence here in which the hieroglyphics Moses is reading come terrifyingly to life enacting the extermination of Isra-

b' b ' so Id'lers. e I'Ite bales y E gyptwn It would be difficult for viewers not to see this as a foreshadowing of the Holocaust and the story's connection to the.modern state of Israel.

Directed by Brenda Chapman, Steve Hickner and Simo'n Wells, the result is a beautifully crafted spectacle re-creating its biblical-era story in compelling fashion, marred only by the artificiality o)f Stephen Schwartz's songs. _ It's a tough one for parents who will have to decide wh,ether their younger children are ready for its depiction of oppression and injustice.

Because of some emotionally intense scenes, the U.S Catholic Conference classification is A-IIadults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association ~f America rating is PG - parental guidance suggested.

From the parish family of Santo Christo Church 185 Canal St. Fa/tRiver

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PRINCE OF EGYPT - The two young princes of Egypt, Rameses and Moses, careen through the city in a breakneck chariot race in the animated feature "The Prince of Egypt." (eNS photo from DreamWorks Pictures)

Seuss meets Caesar: New book tells Grinch tale in Latin

By HEIDI SCHLUMPF

but challenging, "I grew up with the Grinch, and CHICAGO - Need a little I had always loved Dr. Seuss," said something for the Vatican official Jennifer Tunberg, a specialist in liton your Christmas list? Are you the erature and Latin at the University "secret Santa" for a lover of Latin? of Kentucky, Lexington. "I love the Or do you know students who way IW used words in English. So I would like to unwrap a gift that was immediately intrigued by the would help increase their SAT project." scores?

She said she and her husband, If so, get them the Grinch - in Terence, did a literary translation, Latin. Now the classic Dr. Seuss not just a word-for-word replacestory has been translated into a clas- ment of English words with Latin _sical language by a Chicago-area ones. publishing company that special,The Tunbergs had to draw on the izes in Latin books. rich resources of Latin from the Bolchazy-Carducci Publishers Renaissance to the present to do a Inc. of Wauconda has turned "How faithful rendering ofsuch word play the Grinch Stole Christmas" into, - including children's comic lan"Quomodo Invidiosulus Nomine guage ("roast beast"), colloquialGrinchus Christi Natalem isms ("it may be his head wasn~t Abrogaverit." screwed on just right") and allitThe new gift book features the eration ("then he slithered and color illustrations from the 1957 slunk with a smile most unpleasoriginal and aims for a translation ant"), faithful to Seuss' brilliant use of Their first challenge was the rhythm, repetition and rhyme. The word Grinch. Eventually the 56-page book is printed in hard Tunbergs got permission from the cover and in paperback.

Seuss people to change his name The husband-and-wife team of to "Grinchus" (pronounced Grinktranslators say the project was fun, us). Posing another problem were CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

the Whos, the mythical little people the Grinch envie1;. The Tunbergs didn't think the Latin word for "who" '("qui") conveyed the sense of the joyfulness of the Whoso So they called them "Iaetuli," meaning "little joyful ones." Who-ville becomes "Laetopolis"; Cindy-Lou-Who becomes "Laetitia Laetula."

Terence Tunberg, who teaches medieval and neo-Latin literature at the University of Kentucky, said the Grinch translation show,) that Latin is a living language.

Though some may think the use of spoken Latin is restrictl~d to priests who prefer the Tridentine Mass, usage of the language actually is on the increase, according to the Academy for Promoting the Use of Latin, which is based in Rome, "We count some IS million students of Latin in Europe alone," said Tuomo Pekkanen, vice president of the Rome academy. "Latin is gaining ground in the former Communist countries of Eastern Europe as well as in the European Union."

Television's best bet ~

New data on Shroud of Turin make interesting documentary to be shown Dec. 22.

By HENRY HERX CATHOUC NEWS SERVICE

NEW YORK - What scientists have learned after 20 years of studying the Shroud of Thrin is summed up in the documentary "In Pursuit of the Shroud," premiering Thesday, Dec. 22, 10-11 p.m. EST 011 cable's Learning Channel.

Venerated for centuries as the burial cloth of Jesus, it was not until 1898 that a photographer realized the negatives of the pictures he had taken of the shroud revealed a detailed image of the man covered by the cloth.

For the past 100 years, scientists

have puzzled over the am~ing authenticity of the shroud's figure and the mystery of how it was imprinted on the cloth.

As a result, this 14-foot length of linen cloth has become, what the program calls, "the most studied artifact in human history."

The program shows how hightech imaging processes have verified the figure on the shroud as being three-dimensional and the wounds on the body as being specific to crucifixion, scourging, a lanced side and a crown of thorns.

Botanists have traced some of the pollen found on the shroud to plants existing only in the Middle East and recently microscopic study has found particles of a very rare limestone indigenous to the area around Jerusalem.

After subjecting several small portions of the cloth to carbon-dat-

'Babci's Angel' is third children's book written by parish priest WORCESTER - Just in time for Christmas is "Babci's Angel," the newest work by Father Richard P. Lewandowski, a writer of children's books.

When a boy's brother is critically injured in a sledding accident, faith engendered by family traditions comes to the rescue. "Babci's Angel" is the story of two brothers, touched by an angel - their grandmother's angel - and how a child's faith and love can strengthen a family during a crisis and transcend tragedy. It is a warm, life-embracing tale, full of drama and tension, with a happy ending.

"Babci's Angel" is a knowledge-

ling for the scientists who have studied the shroud is what one of them calls the "sheer mystery" of the image and how it got there.

The image is not a painting but exists only as an imprint on the shape of the cloth which can only be seen. with the aid of photographic processes.

After all their studies and tests, the shroud still challenges the abil-

ing procedures, the results were announced in 1988 as proving it originated in the Middle Ages.

These findings have since been called into question for a number of reasons, including bacterial contamination on the linen threads which might have skewed the carbon-dating.

But what remains most compel-

11

ity of scientists to explain it.

Along the way, viewers learn much about the shroud and its history, which many believers will find useful in their reflections on the death and resurrection of the Redeemer.

Produced for TLC by Rock Creek Films in association with ABC/Kane Productions, the program is well worth seeing.

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able and empathetic look at a childhood crisis that will captivate readers, young and old alike. It is the story of simple faith, angelic intervention and the power of prayer.

The book is illustrated by Kathryn H. Delisle.

Father Lewandowski is a licensed mental health counselor who counsels college students and ministers to those with HIV/AIDS. He is the author of two other children's books, "Shooting Stars" and "The First Easter Bunny."

"Babci's Angel" is available by contacting Ambassador Books, Inc., 71 Elm St.. Worcester, MA, or by calling (800) 577:09,09.

As we bow in adoration to give thanks to the Father for the gift of Jesus, let us pray for one another.

THEANCHOR- Diocese of Fall River- Fri., Dec. 18, 1998

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A New Year's Retreat for High School, College-age youth and Young Adults Sponsored by parishes in the Fall River Diocese

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New Year's Midnight Mass with Bishop Sean O'Malley What to expect: Speakers: Cost:

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Prayer, Contemporary Christian Music, Small Group Discussions, FeUowship, Activities The Franciscan Friars of the Primitive Observance, New Bedford, MA $25.00 (Youth and Adult Leaders) - includes registration, 3 meals Thursday, 2 meals Friday, snacks, drinks and accommodations. (financial assistance available)

Join Us!!!

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M eny ChristmaS to All from Saint J olm the Evangelist Parish

in the Village of Pocasset Reverend Robert C. Donovan, Pastor Reverend William ~ Campbell, Mass Assistant Reverend Mr. James Marzelli, Jr., Deacon Reverend Mr. Leonard C. Dexter, Jr., Deacon and the Parish Staff

SCHEDULE OF MASSES

FEAST OF CHRISTMAS Christmas Eve: 4:00, 7:00 and Midnight Christmas Day: 8:00, 9:30 and 11 :00 a.m.

FEAST OF MARY; MOTHER OF GOD New Year's Eve: 4:00 p.m.

New Year's Day: 8:00, 9:30 and 11 :00 a.m.

12

THE ANCHOR - Diocese of Fall River - Fri., Dec. 18, 1998

Shops. near Vatican offer wide selection of Christmas ;gifts ~ From liturgical vest-

ments to designer scarves to glow-inthe-dark figurines, Vatican-area shops attract tourists.

By LYNNE WElL CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

ROME - Like business districts around the globe, the shops near the Vatican are busy ringing up holiday gift purchases.

But what sets apart the narrow

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.Consecration to the Divine ·wiil Oh adorable and Divine Will, behold me h~re before the imm.ensity ofYour Light, that Your eternal gqoi:lness may open to me the doors and make me' enter into' It to form my life all in You, Divine WilL Therefore, oh adorable Will, prostrate before .

Yo'ur Light, I, the least of all creatures, put myselfinto the little group of the sons and daughte\s ofYour Supreme FIAT. Prostrate in my n.othingness, I invoke Your Light and beg that it clothe me and eclipse all that does not pertain to You, Divine Will. It \Yill be my Life, the center of my intelligence, the enrapturer of my heart and of my whole being. J. do not want the human will to have life in this heart any longer. I will cast it away from me and thus form the new Eden of Peace, of happiness and of love. With It I shall be always happy. I shall have a singular strength and a holiness that sanctifies all things and conducts them to God. Here prostrate, I invoke the help of the Most Holy Trinity that They permit me to live in the cloister of the Divine Will and thus return in me the first order of creation,just as the creature was created.

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

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

Saint Joseph, you will be my protector, the guardian of my heart, and will keep the keys of my will in your hands. You will keep my heart jealously and shall never give it to me again, that I may be sure of never leaving the Will of God. My guardian Angel, guard me; defend me; help me in everything so that my Eden may flourish and be the instrument that draws all men into the Kingdom of the Divine Will. Amen. ( /n Honor of Luisa Piccarreta /865-/947 Child of the Divine Will)

streets of the neighborhood just east of the Vatican is the wide selection of sacred and secular presents, from a designer silk scarf to a glow-inthe-dark Baby Jesus for that special creche.

In the shadow of the papal apartments is a corner store called Al Pellegrino Cattolico, which translates roughly to "the Catholic pilgrim's place." .

Manager Olga Patrizi said the 100-year-old shop is often the first stop for out-of-town Vatican visitors --.:. the No. 64 bus, which crosses Rome and is usually loaded with tourists, comes chugging to a halt at the store's doorstep.

Nativity scenes fill the windows: hand-carved wood from Italy, porcelain from Spain.

They are mostly for show, Patrizi noted - since the tourist season peaks in the summer and dwindles by late October, the bulk of the sets for this year are already sold.

Bulky purchases such as statues are constantly being shipped; the most popular take-away gifts are the rosaries made of polished, colored

stones.

On the next block is an annex of the Vatican Museums' gift shop. In addition to offering the books, posters and other items available inside the museums, it has reproductions from state and privately owned collections throughout Italy.

"You would be surprised at how many people look right past the gold-leafjewelry in the display case and ask about the'horse," a cashier said, pointing to a little bronze equestrian statue draped with golden earrings. It is a copy of a figure found at an Etruscan grave site north of Rome. And yes, it is for sale.

Down the street from the St. Anne's Gate entrance to the Vatican, a store bears the name of the Serpenti family, which founded a business of cassocks and liturgical vestments in 1820 and continues to sell them, handmade, today.

Now, however, they have five branches in three cities, a toll~free line for customers in Italy and a Web site in three languages for the rest of-the world. ..

Around the corner, Enzo Astrologo confided that priests and religious are his favorite customers because "they always know what they want - if they want a medallion, they know wha.t saint, what size, everything."

Just across the street is a toy shop. The o~ner, who prefers to be known only as Massimo, still has leftover jack-o' -lantern flashlights from Hallowee:n. But other shelves are stuffed with more timely toys, including a velvet Santa Claus that emits an electronic "Ho-ho-ho" from deep within his fluff-stuffed chest at the press of a button.

Massimo declared that he deliberately stays away from selling religious items, becausl~ he cannot compete with the gwat array of them available in the neighborhood.

"An'd after all," he said, taking in his entire stoc~ with the sweep of an arm, "ask a child, and you would find that he wDuld rather have something like thi.> for Christmas."

"Pope says 1999 should begirt pilgrimage of sha~ing, dialoglJe .

.

par.t of th.e same, family, they must learn to seek each other:s supporrand offer one another help, he said.

CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE Sometimes, the pope said, helping others means VATICAN CITY - The final year. of preparation sharing wit~' them the truth that salvation comes (<?r the, Holy fear 2000 should mark the beginning through Christ and inviting them to join the jour'I . of a pilgrimage of charity, of.sharing with tpe poor .ney toward eternal happine~s., an9 of dialogue with all people, Pope John PimlIr '. T.he pope said Christians are filled with hope by the knowledge that Christ, who was born in said: . . .

The pope said the Catholic Church's focu~ on. ,Bethlehem and died and rose in Jer~salem, will come God the Father over the coming year should empha~ again to establish his kingdom and give.eternallife size that all people are children of God and, there- to all believers.. fore, brothers and sisters. ' '''Without this prospect," he said, "our existence "The God who comes to meet us is the one we would be reduced to living in order to die." have been seeking, or the one we have ignored or During his Angelus address after Mas.s, Pope John the one we even have been avoiding," the pope said Paul inyited all Catholics "to undertake an interior during a.homily in St. Peter's Basilica. pilgrimage toward the house of our heavenly Fa"He comes to meet' us with open arms like a lov- ther; who is rich in mercy; it is a journey o(l;onvering and merciful Father," he said. sian in charity, in sharing with the poorest and in God leads everyone on a journl<Y to him, but he dialogue with our brothers and sisters." does not call people to travel alone, the pope said.

The best opportunities most Catholics have to "We Il)ake it with all those who are a part of the exercise their missionary responsibilities of profamily of-God." .. claiming Christ and helping others come about at Because all people are brothers and sisters and work, he said.

By CINDY WOODEN'

Ge~Dlan

cardinal says Catholi,=s should oppose use of RU-486

By RICHARD NYBERG

.

CATHOUC NEWS SERVICE

~ONN,

Germany - Catholics should oppose plans by leading political parties 'to approve the use of the abortion pill RU-486, "an instrument .of death" that· should not be allowed in German society, said Cardinal Joachim Meisner of Cologne, Germany.

Writing in the recent issue of Dusseldorf's Rheinischen Post newspaper, Cardinal Meisner said ,RU-486 was not a medicine, but rather the exact opposite': "a chemical instrument of death specially designed for unborn children."

He noted that anyone who took the pill would be killing a human being, w~ile whoever participates in the preparation and introduction of the drug in society participates

in the killing of that person.

Referring to the Nazi era, when drugs were used to commit crimes against humanity, Cardinal Meisner said it would be "an unspeakable tragedy if at the end of this century Germany's chemical industry would, for the second time, unleash a substance to use legally against a defined group of people."

But Regina Schmidt-Zadel, spokeswoman for the Social Democrats, said: "Cardinal Meisner's tasteless comparison of RU-486 to that of the Nazi gas 'Zyklon B' which was used to exterminate millions of Jews is a new high point in the agitation of the Catholic Church against what has long been accepted in other countries as a gentle and low-risk way to terminate pregnancy medicinally." ; She added that a "political debate

on this issue is necessary, but the cardinal's words contribute VI~ry little."

Several leading politicians, including those from the ruling Social Democrats as well as the opposition Christian Democrats and Liberals, have stated their support for the introduction of RU-486 in Clermany.

The pill remains a topic of debate, however, and a decision ha:. not yet been reached on whether to ~Jlow the drug to be used in the country.

"The Church will mea~;ure the politicians on how they live up to their moral and historical re:sponsibility on such a matter," Cardinal Meisner said, adding that German Christians must also be prepared to speak out on other topics of morality such as euthanasia. . "It is time for the Church to engage in the current debate over values in this society," he said.

Manger

Continued from page one

It wasn't until the Christian Emperor Constantine rose to power in the middle of the 4th century and ruled that Christianity was the religion of the empire that the Church felt free to open up its spiritual treasures.

The Church began to look beyond the resurrection and Christ's sufferings and look to the person of Christ, his divi'nity, his assuming his manhood from the Blessed Virgin Mary. Biblical scholars tell us that it was then that there arose a desire to live out liturgically the entire Christian mystery. This led to the Nativity festival.

Rome reportedly had a Nativity festival by the year 336 and perhaps earlier. There is still disagreement among scholars concerning the reason why . these early Christians of the late 3rd and 4th centuries decided to mark Jesus' birth on December 25.

Popular theories are that Christians were high on winter's symbolism; that they borrowed from the world around them; and that they tried to counter the influence of pagan festivals.

The advancing darkness after the fall equinox starts to decline at

the winter solstice when the light of day begins to once again defeat the darkness of night. The winter solstice occurred on December 25 on the Julian calendar and became the favorite date for Christmas.

In the year 274 the Roman empire celebrated the birth, of a sun god as part of a uniform religious monotheism. One theory is that Christians began to celebrate the birth of Christ to offset the December 25.sun god feast.

By the 15th century, Advent re-

Every English family used to bake a mince pie in the shape of a manger to hold a figure of the Christ Child until Christmas dinner, when the pie was eaten. But this came to a screeching halt when the Puritans outlawed Christmas in the 17th century. Frowning on any religious imagery, the black-robe' Puritans passed specific legislation prohibiting mince pie, which they called: "Idolatrie in crust."

At one time in the Christmas tradition, Christians would attend all three Masses on Christmas - the vigil Mass, midnight: Mass, and another at dawn. Often they went to these Masses in three different churches.

For practical reasons then, the Gospel readings were different at each of the Masses.

The often-heard complaint that there is no narrative of the birth of Christ at the final Mass on Christmas stems from this tradition of the liturgy.

The most obvious feature of the Christmas season is the popularity of special lights. At one time, all light was from burning flames in the form of wicks and candles, which have always been popular religious symbols. The use of a special candle, called the Christmas Candle, is an ancient tradition.

In many parishes, it is placed in the middle of the Advent wreath, whose symbolism is now completed with the coming of Christ: the light of Christ has pushed away' the darkness of sin and religious ignorance.

If you decorate with holly, you are using a Christmas symbol from northern Europe. There it was called the "holy tree" because it became associated with the burning bush of Moses and the Blessed Virgin Mary's burning love for God. The red berries and prickly points also became symbolic of the crown

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

The nelt issue of The Anchor will be dated Jan. 1, 1999.

Material lor this issue must reach us by Decembe.r 22.

...............

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placed Christmas as the beginning of the Church's liturgical year.

The seeds of our contemporary Christmas traditions were planted in North America in the mid-19th century in the wake of immigration from Ireland and central Europe.

Germans brought the Christmas tree, originally called the "Paradise Tree." The Irish contributed Christmas lights in windows of homes, beacons to light the way for Mary and Joseph and the coming of the Christ child. With the immigrants came the popularity of a midnight Mass or one at dawn, and the tradition of the creche, reportedly the concept of St. Francis ofAssisi, who had a living nativity scene at Greccio, Italy, in 1223 to recall the manger scene in Bethlehem. The Franciscans popularized such scenes in churches, and after more than 100 years everybody expected a church to have a nativity scene at Christmastime.

Diocese of Fall River -

of thorns and the bloody death that the Christ Child would eventually suffer.

Most popular of Christmas flowers is the scarlet-leafed poinsettia.

It comes originally from Mexico where it grows as a shrub. It blooms at Christmastime and Mexicans call it "flower of the Holy Night."

The plant is named after Dr. Joel R. Poinsett (1779-1851) who brought

13

Fri., Dec. 18, 1998

one to his greenhouse in South Carolina, reproduced it and made it famous as the traditional Christmas flower in America.

As for mistletoe, it was once considered by the Druids in the British Isles as a sacred plant with powers to heal. Enemies were expected to pledge a truce beneath it, as it was an invitation to peace, goodwill and hospitality.

Christmas Greetings From the Outer Cape

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Come under our Tree for Christmas!

CHo[ida~s

~ the qnfdnt EJesus bring to. a([

Our Lady of Lourdes, Wellfleet

CATHOLIC . ASSOCIATION ." OF FORESTERS

The Parish FamillJ. of Our LadlJ. of tF,e Ant}.elsl Fall Rifler, wishes all families throut}.hout the Diocese

CJ3[essed

THE ANCHOR -

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Name: Address:

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, Best wishesI Re"- Eflaristo Taflaresl pastor John F. 8ranco1 Deacon

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THE ANCHOR -

Diocese or Fall River - Fri., Dec. 18, 1998

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AWARD WINNER! Regina Silvia, chairman of the Bis,hop Feehan High School English department stands with senior Matt Harris of Cumberland chosen as a recipient of the 1998 National Coum:il of Teacher of English Excellence in Writing Award. He was onn of 600 students honored nationally with the award.

the

From Parish Family of St. Francis of Assisi

~. BISHOP STANG sophomore Zachary Baumgart of Sandwich was recently selected as school representative for the Hugh O'Brian Leadership Seminar' next spring. .- The seminar ,is designed to motivate and develop future leaders, preparing them for positions in their schools. Baumgart is a member of the football team and tmasurer , of his class: ..

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â&#x20AC;˘ VISIT FROM ST. NICK: Sacred Heart's Father Richard Lifrak, dressed as St. Nicholas, visits students at St. Joseph 'School, Fairhaven, to bless and distribute candy canes. Pictured (from left to right) are:, Nicholas Manzone, Nicholas Paiva, Nicole Dussault, Nicholas Oliveira, Nicholas Mello, Nicholas Martin and Nicholas Wright.

Wi5/w5 yoa and yoa~/andly

o!e55ing5 and /tappi/Wj5 Christmas Mass schedule Thursday, Dec. 24th.- 4 p.m., 7 p.m., and 12 (Midnight) Friday, Dec. -'9 a.m. and . . 25th . ." . 11- a,m.

SEVENTH GRADER Brandon Girouard of St. Mary's School, New Bedford, serves tea during the school's Grandparents Day. More than 200 grandparents spent the morning being entertained with songs, dance and poetry while enjoying refreshments. Seventh and eighth graders acted as waiters and waitresses for the event.

The songs of 1998

By CHARUE MARTIN

but on U.S. charts. Anggun's style CATHOUC NEWS SERVICE and message were different and inWhat a year in music it's been! triguing, especially her hit about It always is interesting to look back the power of hope, "Snow on the at the songs I've reviewed and what Sahara." Another of my favorites they show about the year's trends was a three-sister act from England, and styles in pop/rock.

Cleopatra. Their "Life Ain't Easy" One trend of this past year is seen asked us not to get so focused on in country music stars crossing over our own problems that we fail to to the pop charts. Some teens in notice and care about the suffering Iowa clued me in about Clay in people's lives around our world.

Walker's "Then What," a song that Natalie Imbruglia's "Torn" adreminded us to think about conse- dressed the pain of being carelessly quences before deciding to act. Per- discarded in a romance. haps no country star is bigger than Loreena McKennit Showed just Garth Brooks. His remake of the how expanded the pop charts have' Bob Dylan's classic "To Make You become by using her New Age/ Feel My Love" was a hit off the Celtic style in her hit about Spring"Hope Floats" soundtrack. I doubt time, "The Mummer's Dance." if there is any teen music star better The releases of 1998 that I most known than LeAnn Rimes. Her appreciated are those I call "songs "Looking Through Your Eyes:' de- of message." I really liked scribed how another's love can help Semisonic's thoughts 'about facing us see ourselves with less self-doubt life's endings and beginnings in and more self-appreciation.

"Closing Time." Pa'ula Cole's "I Each year provides us with new Don't Want to Wait" was a hit that artists. Of these, Jennifer Paige's emphasized how the pain of the past "Crush" offered enough content on can be recognized and healed so that male-female infatuation to keep it doesn't steal away the promise of our parish middle-school youth- the present. The group Ben Folds group discussions going for two Eve gave us "Brick:' a poignant sessions. .story about how the choice foraborMy favorite newcomer was a pop lion can bring damaging emotional ' star from Indonesia making her de- consequences for all involved.

A song with several levels of meaning was Eric Clapton's "My Father's Eyes." I used it to think about the bond that we share with our Father and Creator. And when it comes to living everyday life in a more Christian way, we all could benefit from acting on Natalie Merchant's advice in "Kind and Generous."

Today's music has much to say to us as we try to live out our commitment to be followers of Jesus.

You might want to think about what yO!J,learned from listening to music during this past year.

I especially want to thank all of you who wrote to me durin'g this past year. I am a~ways open to collaborate as I did with a high school class from New York last year. If you would like your parish youth group, religious education class or high school to review a song for this column, just contact me.

To each of you following this column, may the next year be blessed, and may you start it off with God's guidance and love to enrich your life.

Your comments are always welcome. Please address: Charlie Martin, 7125 W 200S, Rockport, Ind. 47635.

A "'simple" New Year"s resolution: Listen

By CHRISTOPHER CARSTENS CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

It's time for New Year's resolutions again.

Instead of making long, complex pledges, this year I'd like to suggest going simple by making just the following, single resolution: Listen.

That's it, just that single word: "listen." Keep your mouth shut until you've heard what ,; 'thl'rperson has to say.

We spend so mudl time talking - or thinking about what we're going to say next - that sometimes the listening part gets left out altogether.

You can't learn anything without listcning. It's most obvious in I' • classroom. There are alwa~ls somc student~ Whl give up on learning about four days into the term.

They're the kids WIlO sit through lcctures snoozing or chatting. When they finally sit cown for the exam, they don't know any of the answers.

How could tht:y? They never listened.

There's another kind of kid who isn't listening. He thinks he already knows the answers. Often this sort shouts the an:;wcr before the teacher asks the whole question. Sometimes he'll even blurt out the right answer to the wrong question. These kids also have !Jroblems on the ex" ams because they don't believe they really need to study.

These twin attitudes, "I can't learn anything" and "I already know everything" both block learning because they make listening unnecessary. Of the two, however, the second is probably the more dangerous. Somebody who knows he's ignorant will do less real damage than a person who thinks he knows more than he really does.

My own personal journey through life often has been handi-

.~~~~~!

FOR YOOTH • ABOOT YOOTH

capped by that problem. For a long time I thought having people think I was smart was a fine substitute for actually knowing things.

In particular, I became expert at learning a few key words on a subject and then cleverly working them into conversations so it looked like I knew a lot.

It wasn't so bad in school. If you can convince a teacher you're smart, it's not that hard to get a 13 in class. I got a lot of Bs that way.

But once you'te working for a living, seeming to know more than you do doesn't get you a 13; it gets you in trouble. Today's professions reward what you know, and even more they reward your ability to learn nev' things.

Concentrating on making sure you look smart instead of really learning new information, you end up farther and farther behind. Everybody thinks you're bright and clever, but they w.onder why you

don't produce as much as you should.

In your spiritual life, trying to look smart is absolutely deadly.

Real spiritual growth and development require learning from teachers who are wiser than you. Sometimes you can do that through books, but it is far more helpful to have a living, breathing teacher, someone who is far ahead of you on the path, yet able to look back and help you past stumbling blocks you don't recognize.

Learning from a spiritual teacher requires real humility. If the teacher tells you to sit down and write about a subject, .and you say, "I don't need to because I already get the whole point," you're sunk.

Learning has stopped - and it can stay stopped for years or for your whole life.

In school, in the world of work and in spiritual growth, the most dangerous learning disability of all is thinking you already know everything.

There's only one antidote.

Listen:

Your comments are welcome.

Please' address: Christopher Carstens, c/o Catholic News Service, 3211 Fourth St. N.E., Washington, D.C. 20017.

THE ANCHOR -

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THE ANCHOR - Diocese of Fall River - Fri., Dec. 18, 1998

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