Is God a Steelers celebrates fan? 500 years By the Way, honors corps page 2 for service, page 3

www.ErieRCD.org BI-WEEKLY NEWS BULLETIN OF THE DIOCESE OF ERIE February 5, 2006 Church Calendar Events of the local, American and universal church

February is Catholic Press Month “Values permeate all that we do, think and say. These values affect our understanding of events happening in our society. This is why I am deeply grateful to all those who make up the Catholic press in this country. They render a great service to their readers by reporting on events from a faith perspective.” — Bishop Gerald Kicanas of Tucson, Ariz., chair of the USCCB Committee on Communications and hon- orary president of the Catholic Press Association Choose The Right Path... Let the Catholic Press Lead You... Catholic Newspapers, Magazines and Books. This is the winning theme for the 2006 Catholic Press Month poster. The entry was sub- mitted by Lloyd Robichaux of The Clarion Herald in New Orleans, La. Visit www.catholicpress.org. In first , pope calls World Day for Consecrated Life – Feb. 5 This annual celebration highlights persons who have made a special consecration in the Catholic for deeper understanding of love Church. In his message for CNS photo/graphic by Rich Papalia the first World Day for By John Thavis In his first encyclical, Deus Caritas Est (God Is Love), Consecrated Life, John Paul Catholic News Service By the Words II said the day offers the Pope Benedict XVI points to Christ's death on the opportunity to thank God — In Pope Benedict XVI’s fi rst encyclical is about cross as "love in its most radical form." for the gift of consecrated 16,000 words. Some key words and the number his first encyclical, Pope of times they appear: life, to promote knowledge Benedict XVI called for a ecstasy of eros and the never be undertaken as part of the life, to invite conse- deeper understanding of unselfish love of agape, he of a political or ideological crated people to celebrate what the Lord has love as a gift from God to be Love said. agenda. accomplished in them, and to acquire more shared in a self-sacrificial 278 The key to regaining this The pope said there was awareness of their mission in the church and in way, both at a personal and a connection between the Church balance, he said, lies in a the world. social level. 200God 101 personal relationship with commitment to justice and The pope said love God and an understanding the ministry of charity, but Boy Scout Sunday – Feb. 5 between couples, often Charity Eros Agape of the sacrificial love of also important distinctions. The Boy Scouts of America reduced today to selfish sex- 82 35 20 Jesus Christ. He said Christ Building a just social and designates the Sunday that ual pleasure, needs to be gives the ultimate lesson in civil order is an essential falls before February 8 purified to include “concern “love of neighbor,” which political task to which the (Scouting Anniversary Day) and care for the other.” means: “I love even the per- church contributes through as Scout Sunday, which is Love is also charity, he Counts include base words and additional forms such as “charitable.” ©2006 CNS son whom I do not like or its social doctrine, but it the primary date to recog- said, and the church has an is understood as represent- said. even know.” “cannot be the church’s nize the contributions of obligation to help the needy ing “eros,” the erotic love Properly understood, he The pope said there was immediate responsibility,” young people and adults to wherever they are found — between a man and a said, eros leads a man and an essential interplay he said. scouting. but its primary motives woman. The church, from woman to marriage, a bond between love of God and “A just society must be must always be spiritual, its earliest days, proposed a that is exclusive, and there- love of neighbor. the achievement of politics, World Day of the Sick – Feb. 11 never political or ideologi- new vision of self-sacrificial fore monogamous, as well as “If I have no contact not of the church,” he Pope Benedict XVI has chosen Adelaide, cal. love expressed in the word permanent. whatsoever with God in my added. “The church can- Australia, to host the 14th World Day of the Sick The nearly 16,000-word “agape,” he said. While it is true that the life, then I cannot see in the not and must not take upon honoring the sick and those who care for them. encyclical, titled Deus At times, the pope said, happiness of eros can give other anything more than herself the political battle to This international event, devoted to health care Caritas Est (God Is Love), was the church, with all its com- people a “foretaste of the the other, and I am inca- bring about the most just and human dignity, is issued Jan. 25 in seven lan- mandments and prohibi- divine,” eros needs to be dis- pable of seeing in him the society possible. She cannot expected to attract hundreds guages. Addressed to all tions, has been accused of ciplined and purified if it is image of God,” he said. and must not replace the of religious leaders and Catholics, it was divided poisoning eros or of being to provide more than fleet- “But if in my life I fail state,” the pope said. health experts from across into two sections, one on ready to “blow the whistle” ing pleasure, the pope said. completely to heed others, “Yet at the same time the globe. Cardinal Javier Lozano Barragan, who the meaning of love in sal- just when the joy of erotic The solution is to redis- solely out of a desire to be she cannot and must not heads the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral vation history, the other on love presented itself. cover a balance between the ‘devout’ and to perform my remain on the sidelines in Assistance to Health Care Workers, said this the practice of love by the But in mod- ‘religious the fight for justice,” he year’s commemorations will honor “mental church. ern society, he duties,’ then said. The church’s role is to health and human dignity.” The pope said his aim said, it has my relation- make the rational argu- was to “speak of the love ments for justice and awak- World Marriage Day – Feb. 12 become clear that Bishop Trautman ship with God which God lavishes upon us eros itself has will also grow en the spiritual energy need- World Marriage Day honors husband and wife as and which we in return ed for the sacrifices that jus- head of the family, the basic unit of society. It been exalted and on God is Love arid,” he said. must share with others.” the human body The sec- tice requires, he said. salutes the beauty of their faithfulness, sacrifice The two aspects, personal “Christian charitable and joy in daily married life. debased. The new encyclical letter by Pope Benedict ond half of the love and the practice of “Eros, XVI is an outstanding treatise on the concept of love encyclical activity must be independ- WMD prayer: “Father, we charity, are profoundly reduced to pure and a “must” for all to read. It is truly masterful and makes two ent of parties and ideolo- thank you for your tremen- interconnected, he said. ‘sex,’ has become needs to be widely circulated. It is a timely message main points: gies. It is not a means of dous gift of the sacrament The encyclical begins a commodity, a that the world needs to hear. — As a changing the world ideolog- of marriage. Help us to wit- with a phrase from the First mere ‘thing’ to be The first part of the Holy community, ically, and it is not at the ness to its glory by a life of Letter of John: “God is bought and sold, Father’s message talks about the church service of worldly strata- growing intimacy. Teach us love, and he who abides in or rather, man the two forms of love that must practice gems, but it is a way of mak- the beauty of forgiveness so love abides in God, and himself becomes are present in our world. love through ing present here and now we may become more and God abides in him.” The a commodity. He describes one as works of chari- the love which man always more one in heart, mind pope said the line expresses This is hardly “eros,” or “erotic love,” ty and attend needs,” he said. and body. Strengthen our dialogue and help us the heart of the Christian man’s great ‘yes’ and the other as “agape,” to people’s suf- The pope examined and become living signs of your love. Make us grow faith, which understands to the body. On or “Christian love.” ferings and rejected the Marxist argu- more in love with the church so we may renew the creator as a loving God the contrary, he While it is useful to speak needs, includ- ments that the poor “do not the Body of Christ. Make us a sign of unity in and which sees Christ’s now considers his of these distinct forms ing material need charity but justice,” the name of Jesus, our Lord and brother. Amen.” death as the ultimate sign of body and his sex- by which love is mani- needs. and that charity is merely a – Fr. Bill Dilgen, S.M.M. God’s love for man. uality as the pure- fested, it is important — The means of preserving a sta- In today’s world, how- ly material part of to recognize, as the church’s action tus quo of economic injus- ever, the term “love” is fre- stems from its tice. He said the church himself, to be See BISHOP page 4 quently used and misused, used and exploit- spiritual mis- DidYou he said. Most commonly, it ed at will,” he sion and must See GOD IS LOVE page 4 ? Vatican say Catholic aid Know not just response to material need Special issue of Faith By Cindy Wooden focuses on 2006 CSA During his papacy, Pope John Paul II wrote Catholic News Service “Simply, this encyclical opposes a A special extra issue of Faith magazine focusing on the 14 encyclical letters. His many other works 2006 Catholic Services Appeal for the Erie Diocese will be are classified as apostolic letters, apostolic VATICAN CITY — tendency to forget God. It opposes a arriving in mailboxes beginning Feb. 13. exhortations, and Catholic charitable activity This issue profiles people and ministries that have been general catechesis, among others. is not primarily a response tendency that is in all of us, (that of) helped by the CSA and details how funds were spent in to material needs, but a secularism.” 2005. To view the writings of John Paul II, response to God’s love, three — Archbishop Paul Cordes The theme Benedict XVI and other , visit Vatican officials said. of this year’s www.PapalEncyclicals.net on the Web. The three officials pre- CSA is “The sented Pope Benedict XVI’s Pope Benedict has made it Martino, president of the Love of Christ encyclical, Deus Caritas Est his own.” Pontifical Council for Compels Us” (God Is Love), at a Jan. 25 Under Archbishop Justice and Peace, and from 2 Cor. Vatican press conference. Cordes’ leadership, Cor Archbishop William J. 5:14. Look for a Archbishop Paul Unum has been working for Levada, prefect of the feature story For complete text Cordes, president of the years on strategies to Congregation for the about the of Pope Benedict’s Pontifical Council Cor strengthen the Catholic Doctrine of the Faith, also Catholic encyclical, visit Unum, the Vatican’s charity- identity of Catholic-spon- spoke about the need to Services www.ErieRCD.org promotion agency, said sored development and work with governments and Appeal in the work on a letter explaining relief agencies. private institutions to meet next issue of the theological basis of Although the archbish- human needs. FaithLife on Catholic charitable activity op spoke about the risk of Archbishop Cordes was Feb. 19. already had begun under secularization faced even by asked if Pope Benedict Pope John Paul II, “and I Catholic aid agencies, he cannot deny my joy that and Cardinal Renato See CHARITY page 4 NEWS BRIEFS By the Way... March for Life organizer estimates 2006 crowd at ‘well over 100,000’ WASHINGTON (CNS) — Although At a Jan. 10 meeting in Nellie Gray, organizer of the March for Washington, the U.S. bishops’ Life, estimates the crowd at this year’s Committee on Education event at “well over 100,000,” she said a approved a set of questions to definitive figure will have to wait until she guide local dialogues nation- and others can study photographs of the wide between diocesan bish- march. “I couldn’t see the end (of the ops and the presidents of march) from the stage,” Gray told Catholic colleges and universi- Catholic News Service Jan. 25. “But I do ties in their diocese. know that there were three hours of peo- The dialogues are part of ple coming up” to the rally site on the , Pope National Mall at Seventh Street, she said. John Paul II’s 1990 apostolic “I would say it was equal to the largest” constitution on Catholic high- of past marches, she added. Public infor- er education, which set norms Jason Koshinskie mation officers for both the Metropolitan to assure the Catholic mission Police Department of the District of and identity of Catholic colleges and universities. Columbia and the U.S. Park Police, which One of the topics listed for discussion is the “mandatum,” has responsibility for the Mall and other or authorization to teach, that the norms say a Catholic theolo- areas around public buildings in CNS photo gian must have to teach in a Catholic institution of higher learn- Washington, declined to estimate the Young people lead the 33rd annual March for Life in Washington Jan. 23. Tens of thousands ing. That discussion should be a short one in the Erie Diocese. crowd for this year’s march. of people gathered to protest the U.S. Supreme Court's 1973 decision legalizing abortion. All of the theology professors at Gannon University have been certified and received the mandatum, required by all Catholic colleges in the United States. Mercyhurst College US PEOPLE does not have a theology department; it has a religious studies Music common denominator for homeless people Would-be papal assassin ordered back to prison program. Religious studies does not fall under the qualifications recruited for choir of the mandatum. (CNS) — The Turkish terrorist “All of the professors at Gannon University are totally CHICAGO (CNS) — On a recent who shot and seriously wounded Pope orthodox, and we are very proud of that,” Bishop Trautman Sunday, the choir at Old St. Patrick’s John Paul II was ordered to return to says, noting that the mandatum is implemented to prevent pro- Church in Chicago underwent a transfor- prison, where he was expected to remain fessors from labeling their opinions as teachings of the church. mation. Mixed in with its predominantly for several years. On Jan. 20 the Turkish March 1 is Ash Wednesday and marks the beginning of white, more affluent regulars were the Supreme Court overturned a lower court’s Lent. Small faith-sharing groups will also begin their journey “unmonied” members of Harmony, release of Agca eight days earlier. Agca’s through the Why Catholic? program at this time. The program Hope and Healing. The church’s trans- release had prompted widespread criticism focuses on Scripture related to the Catechism of the Catholic formed choir sported an Irish tenor and in Turkey and around the world. Agca, Church. an African-American mezzo-soprano; 48, was apprehended by police at his Approximately 50 parishes will take part in Why Catholic?, songs in high, medium and low register; CNS photo home and offered no resistance when he CNS photo and many have already started sign-ups for group formations. blues and music of a more European fla- Hope and Healing: was taken back into custody. As he Back in jail: Mehmet With the Pittsburgh Steelers playing in Super Bowl XL, vor. Overall, the singers sounded com- Cherisse Ellis sings Nov. entered a police station in Istanbul, he Ali Agca, the man who many fans throughout the diocese are excited about the big fortable together. After Mass, the choir 27 with the Harmony, shouted in several languages, “I am shot Pope John Paul II game. That includes clergy, too. Here is a version of a joke that members — the regulars and the visitors Hope and Healing choir Messiah. I am not the Son of God, I am in 1981, displays an several priests have used in their homilies the past few weeks. It — sat down to eat and talk. Harmony, at Old St. Patrick's Messiah,” according to Turkish news issue of Time magazine goes something like this: Hope and Healing is a creative music Church in Chicago. reports. Agca has frequently made wild as he is freed from a Peyton Manning died and went to heaven. God said, program for people served by various and fanatical claims to the press and to Turkish prison Jan. 12. “Peyton, I am a great football fan so I am giving you a great Catholic-run shelters and community outreach programs in the justice officials. Agca had served 19 years He returned to prison honor. You will have your own house here in heaven.” God Chicago area. “If we are willing to learn, listen and not be afraid to in Italian prisons for shooting the pope in Jan. 20. showed him a modest house with a small Colts flag in the win- join into song, we can learn more about one another,” said the pro- 1981. He was extradited in 2000 to dow. Peyton was pleased until he looked up the hill and saw a gram’s executive director and music director, Marge Nykasa. Turkey, where he served five years for the 1979 murder of a liberal massive black and gold mansion, with Terrible Towels in every Turkish newspaper editor. window and a huge Steelers flag outside. Peyton said, “God, I WORLD don’t like to complain, but how come I have such a small house Hockey-playing bishop dubbed ‘holy goalie’ and Ben Roethlisberger has such a big mansion?” God replied, Pope, church officials have full schedule “That’s not Big Ben’s house! That’s where I live!” of ecumenical events CHICAGO (CNS) — The puns are obvi- ous: “Who IS that masked man?” “‘Stick’ Jason Koshinskie is editor of FaithLife. Contact him at VATICAN CITY (CNS) — By mid-January, Pope Benedict XVI with me, kid.” And, of course, “Hey, fella, [email protected] or 814.824.1171. and the Roman already had a full schedule of you’re on thin ice.” But in this case, the ecumenical events planned for 2006. The Catholic-Orthodox inter- “fella” would be Chicago Auxiliary Catholic home founder closer to sainthood national commission is scheduled to meet in September for the first Bishop Thomas J. Paprocki — all dressed up in a Chicago Blackhawks uniform and time in six years. Commission members plan to return to the theo- EAST CHICAGO, Ind. (CNS) — The logical discussion of church authority and primacy. The Catholic- ready to take to the ice at the United Center. Neither is it all for show. Bishop staff at St. Joseph’s Carmelite Home for Lutheran dialogue is nearing completion of a document on “the Girls has certainly witnessed growth in apostolicity of the church,” looking at the continuation of church Paprocki, 53, has been involved with hock- ey for a long time — as a fan and a player. recent years, adding facilities for emer- teaching and tradition from the time of the apostles. The Catholic- gency care and a center for infants and Methodist dialogue is scheduled to finish work by July on a state- He was profiled in the December issue of USA Hockey magazine, where he was pic- toddlers. The staff is now awaiting news ment about how far each community can go in recognizing the of a possible church honor for the home’s church of God present in each other. The World Methodist tured in his episcopal robes holding a CNS photo hockey stick and helmet. The article’s founder. Pope Benedict XVI signed Council also is scheduled to vote in July on formally adopting the Holy goalie: Chicago Dec. 19 recognizing miracles 1999 Catholic-Lutheran agreement on justification. The Catholic headline, appropriately enough, was Auxiliary Bishop “Holy Goalie.” Bishop Paprocki has been attributed to the intercession of nine indi- Church and a group of Pentecostal churches are working on a doc- Thomas J. Paprocki pre- viduals. Among those now ready for beati- ument explaining what both mean by “baptism of the Holy Spirit” playing hockey — floor hockey — since pares to get on the ice he was a boy, but it’s only been in the past fication is Mother Anna Maria Tauscher, and its role in the salvation of individual Christians. after suiting up to prac- also known as Mother Maria Teresa of St. CNS photo decade, he told the magazine, that he’s tice with the Chicago At play: Carmelite taken to the ice. Now, twice a week he Joseph. The German-born founder of the Pope sports red ‘’ Blackhawks Jan. 12. Carmelite Sisters of the Divine Heart of Sister Maria Dell plays at McFetridge Ice Center stopping Perez plays with pucks in an over-30, no-check league. Jesus also founded St. Joseph’s Carmelite Home for Girls in East Chicago— one of preschoolers at the a number of facilities still in operation Holy Innocents Center Vatican to U.S. known for affable manner that she founded on a trip to America. in East Chicago, Ind. JERUSALEM (CNS) — The new Vatican nuncio to the United States is known for his warm and affable manner, sense of We sponsor BUS TOURS to Pittsburgh, Cleveland, North humor and easy laugh in both Palestinian Tonawanda and Buffalo to hear The Mighty Wurlitzers and Israeli circles. Italian Archbishop Pietro Sambi, who will take up his new $40 for members, $45 for non-members post in February, is an excellent choice for the nuncio in Washington, given his Price includes show ticket, record of being open and ready to listen to round trip bus and dinner. people, said Franciscan Father Peter CNS photo Erie Area Theatre Organ Society Vasko, president of the Franciscan Italian Archbishop Foundation for the Holy Land. “The expert- Pietro Sambi Call Joe Luckey at 871-7276 ise he has shown here with the Palestinians Leave your number for a return call. and the Israelis will go a long way toward dealing with the American hierarchy and American Catholics,” Father Vasko said. CNS photo Pope Benedict XVI wears a red velvet cap, known as a "camauro," as he arrives to lead a recent general audience in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican. The "camauro" was last worn by Pope John XXIII.

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FaithLife Published bi-weekly. Owned and operated by the Bishop of Erie. The news bulletin of the Subscription $10/year. Catholic Diocese of Erie For more information, call (814) 824-1160. Volume 2, Issue 3 The office of Communications has been serv- ing Catholics in the Diocese of Erie since General Information: (814) 824-1160 1874. Offices are located at St. Mark Catholic Fax: (814) 824-1170 Center, 429 East Grandview Blvd., Erie, Pa. Periodical postage paid at Erie, Pa. E-Mail: [email protected] Editorial: (814) 824-1171 Postmaster: Send address changes to Advertising: (814) 824-1168 FaithLife at St. Mark Catholic Center. Member of the Catholic Press Association. NET travels thoughout diocese PCC supports amendment protecting marriage in Pennsylvania By Amy L. Beisel between one man and one necessary to protect and voters on a statewide ballot ref- The National Evangelization Pennsylvania Catholic Conference woman. Even though strengthen Pennsylvania’s exist- erendum. Proponents of the Team (NET) will travel through- Pennsylvania has a law that ing Defense of Marriage Act. marriage protection amend- out the Erie Diocese conducting HARRISBURG — Over defends marriage, it may not be Judges in other states have ment anticipate the earliest retreats at several parishes Feb. the years and across cultures enough to protect what is best deemed similar laws to be chance for voter referendum is 1-9. Eleven young adults will and very different religious for families in Pennsylvania if unconstitutional. Supporters 2007. Supporters of the mar- minister to the youth (grades 7 beliefs, marriage has been and similar lawsuits are filed here. Pennsylvania believe Pennsylvania voters riage protection amendment are through 12) in the following is the foundation of the family. The Pennsylvania Catholic deserve an opportunity at the willing to assume this responsi- parishes: Assumption of the The family, in turn, is the basic Conference joins the Catholic Conference ballot box to prevent “activist” bility so the institution of mar- Blessed Virgin Mary, Sykesville; unit of society. Thus, marriage Pennsylvania Family Institute, courts or local governments riage between one man and one Bradford parishes, St. is a personal relationship with other faith leaders and con- from imposing a new definition woman alone will be protected Stanislaus, Sharon; Our Lady, public significance. Catholic cerned citizens in support of an of traditional marriage. and preserved in Pennsylvania. doctrine teaches that marriage Legislation to start the con- Queen of Americas, Conneaut amendment to the Pennsylvania stitutional amendment process The marriage protection ini- For more information Lake; St. Francis of Assisi, is both a natural institution and Constitution to protect and tiative will protect the definition about the coalition, log on to a sacred union because it is was introduced in January by Clearfield; St. Joseph, Lucinda; define marriage. The amend- State Representatives Scott Boyd of marriage as the union of one www.PA4marriage.org. For and St. Mark, Emporium. Each rooted in the divine plan for cre- ment language will say: man and one woman and protect information about statements ation. As instituted by God and (R-Lancaster), Daryl Metalfe was able to choose a “Only a marriage between one (R-Butler), Tom Yewcic (D- the public institution of marriage from Catholic Bishops, log on retreat theme which include Who supported by the needs of man and one woman shall be valid from any alternative relation- to www.pacatholic.org or human nature, marriage is a Cambria, Somerset), Katie True are You?, Firm Foundation, Cling or recognized as a marriage in this (R-Lancaster) and Teresa ships. www.usccb.org. to Christ!, Why Faith? and faithful, exclusive life-long Commonwealth, and neither the Amending the Pennsylvania union of one man and one Forcier (R-Crawford), and a Confirmation. The goal of the Commonwealth nor any of its polit- companion bill was introduced Constitution is a lengthy and Amy L. Beisel is communica- NET Team is to challenge young woman joined in an intimate ical subdivisions shall create or rec- challenging process. The amend- tions director of the Pennsylvania communion of life and love. by Senator Bob Regola (R- Catholics to love Christ and to ognize a legal status identical or Westmoreland) in the state ment language must first be Catholic Conference—the public embrace the life of the church. Nationwide, activist groups substantially equivalent to that of passed in two consecutive leg- affairs arm of Pennsylvania’s have filed lawsuits asking courts Senate. marriage for unmarried individu- Proponents believe a islative sessions. Then is must be Catholic bishops and the Catholic to redefine marriage as some- als.” approved by a majority of the dioceses of Pennsylvania. Youth rally thing other than a relationship Constitutional amendment is set for March 25 Elk County Catholic in St. Marys will host the Middle Bishop says poverty revealed by Katrina is everywhere in U.S. School Youth Rally on March 25 campaign because the city was that campaign as an organiza- from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The By Peter Finney Jr. Poverty Pulse survey theme of the rally is Saving Grace Catholic News Service hit by the largest natural disaster tion of Catholic bishops but also with activities of the day focus- in U.S. history, which Bishop get other religious-affiliated ing on defining and using sym- NEW ORLEANS — The Hubbard said “turned lives denominations and those in gov- bols of grace. The keynote underlying poverty in New upside down.” The agency also ernment to understand that we speaker is the dynamic and hilar- Orleans uncovered for the announced more than $500,000 need a partnership today — pub- ious Bob Perron of Stooge 4 world’s eyes after Hurricane in special grants to organiza- lic and private — to say this 2/3 Christ Ministries. Musical enter- Katrina can serve to raise the tions helping low-income vic- intolerable situation must be of Americans are tainment will be provided by the awareness of hidden poverty tims of hurricanes Katrina and eliminated,” Bishop Hubbard concerned that popular Christian band Who Do across the U.S., Bishop Howard Rita to rebuild their lives. said. There are 37 million poverty will increase You Say I Am from the J. Hubbard of Albany, N.Y., While looking at the images Americans living in poverty — in the U.S. in 2006. Cleveland area. Other activities said Jan. 19. of despairing crowds at the one out of every eight U.S. citi- include Name that Station game As chairman of the bish- Louisiana Superdome and the zens. Bishop Hubbard said that and Letters from Home service ops’ Committee on Catholic convention center in the days represents 10 percent of all fami- 71% project. Communication will be Campaign for Human after Katrina, Bishop Hubbard lies and nearly 13 million chil- the topic of the adult workshop Development, Bishop Hubbard said his “first gut reaction” was, dren. said they think there offered in the afternoon. was in town for the release of a “My God, it looks like a Third “The tragedy that struck are more poor people Contact Linda Lecce, program national poll on poverty com- World country. How could New Orleans may have a silver today than a year ago. coordinator for the Department missioned by CCHD. these people have been left lining in that it will lead people of Religious Education, at 814- He said 75 percent of behind? Are they being left to once again say, ‘This is intol- 824-1218 or visit the Web at respondents believe the scope of behind because they were erable in a nation of unparal- 56% www.eriercd.org/youth.asp for poverty shown in New Orleans poor?” leled affluence and resources to had donated money additional information. — where those without the Bishop Hubbard said he have 37 million men, women to organizations that means to evacuate before the was pleased to see that 75 per- and children who are living assist the poor. Clergy Category 4 storm were stranded cent of respondents to the poll below the poverty line,’” the for days in deplorable condi- agreed that the plight of the bishop said. Appointments tions at emergency shelters — poor in New Orleans should be “If we can send men and The Most Rev. Donald W. should be used to bring greater used as the launching pad for a women to the moon, if we can attention to poverty throughout national campaign to eliminate do experiments extracting dust Graphic by Rich Papalia Trautman, S.T.D., S.S.L., Bishop This year's survey was designed by the Market Research Bureau and was of Erie, announces the following the U.S. poverty. from the cosmos, then we can do conducted by the Harris Interactive Service Bureau via online questioning. clergy appointments: CCHD chose New Orleans “Hopefully we will be able something to eliminate poverty Participants in the poll were 1,131 members of the general adult population. The to launch its 2006 anti-poverty to not only commit ourselves to within our midst,” he said. margin of error was plus or minus 3 percent. Fr. Michael Kesicki, rector of St. Mark Seminary, Erie, reappointed to a four-year term on the Clergy Continuing Education and Formation Committee, concluding in Nov. 2009. Msgr. H. Desmond McGee, pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Clearfield, reappointed to a four-year term on the Clergy Pope blesses corps Continuing Education and Formation Committee, conclud- on anniversary ing in Nov. 2009. By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service Fr. Mark O’Hern, parochial vicar of St. Michael Parish, VATICAN CITY — On the Greenville, reappointed to a 500th anniversary of the found- four-year term on the Clergy ing of the world’s oldest active Continuing Education and army, Pope Benedict XVI gave made the four-month trek from renowned for their loyalty and Formation Committee, conclud- his to a con- Switzerland to Rome to protect bravery. Celebrations and ing in Nov. 2009. tingent of Swiss Guards who the life and safety of the pope. other commemorative events were lined up in formation in St. He told the guards that “we were set to continue throughout Msgr. Richard Siefer, pastor Peter’s Square. must cleanse and renew our- 2006, culminating in a contin- of St. Catherine of Sienna From his apartment window selves every day in our service to gent of former Swiss Guards Parish, DuBois, reappointed to a in the Jan. 22, God and in our fidelity to his marching to Rome from four-year term as Director of the pope thanked this “well- holy church.” Bellinzona, Switzerland. The Clergy Continuing Education deserving” corps for its “500 He added that the Swiss guards were to arrive in time to and Formation, concluding in years of service.” Guards’ motto of “Acriter et take part in the annual swear- Nov. 2009. He imparted “a heartfelt” Fideliter,” or courage and fideli- ing-in ceremony of new guards apostolic blessing to approxi- ty, was “a daily call” to live May 6 in the Vatican. Fr. Chris Singer, parochial mately 70 guards gathered in the according to such values. The Vatican and vicar of St. George Parish, Erie, square and to former guards The Swiss Guards kicked off Switzerland also were planning reappointed to a four-year term who were watching the event their jubilee celebrations June a series of commemorative on the Clergy Continuing from Fribourg, Switzerland, via 21, the date Pope Julius request- stamps and coins to mark the Education and Formation a live, televised link. ed the service of Swiss soldiers, 500th anniversary. Committee, concluding in Nov. Pope Benedict recalled how CNS photo 2009. on Jan. 22, 1506, “Pope Julius II A Swiss Guard, holding a traditional halberd, looks up as Pope welcomed and blessed the first Benedict XVI bestows a special blessing on the Swiss Guards at the Fr. Thomas Suppa, pastor of contingent of Swiss Guards” Vatican. St. Teresa of Avila Parish, that arrived in Rome after the Union City, and a member of pontiff requested the soldiers Chapel. and generosity shown by the the Presbyteral Council of the come to protect the pope and He highlighted the strength first 150 Swiss soldiers who diocese, appointed to fulfill the the Apostolic Palace. remaining term of Fr. John “This is how the Swiss Malthaner, whose duties as Guards were born,” Pope Gloria Zibilich, headmaster and teacher of Benedict said. with MD, NFPMC, NFPP Venango Catholic prevent his The pope said his special Noah‛sNoah‛s AArkrk ® continuing as a member. Among blessing for the guards was a WorkshopWorkshop FertilityCare Services The Official News Bulletin of the Catholic Diocese of Erie other things, Fr. Suppa will rep- sign of his “appreciation and 139 Main Street resent the people of the Warren recognition” of their service and County Deanery. By church fidelity. Eldred, Pa. 16731 law, each diocese must have a Earlier Jan. 22, Cardinal 814-225-4241 Presbyteral Council whose Angelo Sodano, Vatican secre- Judi Thompson FAX 814-225-4681 responsibilities include assisting tary of state, celebrated Mass for (610) 970-0749 “the bishop in the governance of the the Swiss Guards in the Sistine [email protected] [email protected] diocese . . . in order that the pastoral welfare of the people of God entrust- ed to his care may be promoted as LEARN effectively as possible.” ( 495) ROSARY MAKING MountMount SSaviouraviour MMonasteryonastery Call for catalog & introductory Fr. Brian Vossler, (correc- offer or visit EXTENSIVE RELIGIOUS SHOP FEATURING BOOKS, GIFTS, CARDS & MORE tion from previous announce- www.rosaryparts.com ment) Campus Minister, Call to arrange Monk-made: From our farm: Edinboro University and week- Individual or Wool Mittens & Hats Wool-lined bedding Group Retreats 100% Bees end sacramental assistant at Our Available year-round Yarn & Honey Lady of the Lake Parish, LEWIS & COMPANY Wax Candles Edinboro with residence at Our 231 Monastery Rd., Pine City, NY 14871-9787 Lady of the Lake Rectory. This P.O. Box 268-K, Troy, NY 12181 Phone: 607-734-1688 assignment became effective on Visit our web site: www.msaviour.org January 17, 2006. 800-342-2400 Knights of Columbus council formed at St. Mark the Evangelist

Epiphany celebration held at St. Mark Catholic Center An Epiphany celebration sponsored by the Catholic Charities Office of Spiritual Ministry with Persons with Disabilities was held Jan. 7 at St. Mark Catholic Center, Erie. More than 85 people attended the event, which included an Epiphany program, music by For Pete’s Sake, liturgy celebrat- ed by Fr. George Strohmeyer and dinner. Sign language interpretation was provided. Those who attended were given prayer cards that included the Home Blessing of the Magi, which was read during the program. Fr. George encouraged participants to say the prayer at home and to take the Knights of Columbus Council No. 13826 at St. Mark the Evangelist Parish, Erie, is the newest council formed in the blessing he bestowed on them to their homes and bless each room by mak- Erie Diocese. Patrick Cagnoli serves as the Grand Knight, and Frank Wargo serves as the Deputy Grand Knight. ing the sign of the cross. At right, Fr. George Strohmeyer blesses people as “We currently have 37 members and are growing,” Cagnoli says. Above, Fr. Scott Katren, pastor of St. Mark Parish they process from the chapel to the cafeteria for dinner. and council chaplain, poses with the new council after an installation service Nov. 22. In first encyclical, Pope Benedict calls for deeper understanding of love GOD IS LOVE from page 1 must help the needy wherever in the most just society, he supports initiatives arising from The church’s charitable proposing specific guidelines, world. they are found, and he cited said. different social forces, he said. activities, he said, should not he added: “A Christian knows “People who pray are not Blessed Mother Teresa of In any case, he said, it is The church is one of those be seen as opportunities for when it is time to speak of God wasting their time, even Calcutta as an example of love an illusion to think that the forces, he said. proselytism, in the sense of and when it is better to say though the situation appears in action. state can provide for all needs The pope said that those imposing the church’s faith on nothing and to let love speak desperate and seems to call for “One does not make the and fully resolve every prob- working for Catholic charitable others. alone.” action alone. Piety does not world more human by refus- lem. organizations need to be wit- “But this does not mean The pope said that prayer undermine the struggle ing to act humanely here and “We do not need a state nesses of the faith as well as that charitable activity must should not be forgotten as the against the poverty of our now,” he said. And charity which regulates and controls professionally competent in somehow leave God and church tries to alleviate the neighbors, however extreme,” will always be necessary, even everything,” but a state that humanitarian affairs. Christ aside,” he said. Without immense needs around the he said. Vatican officials say Catholic aid not just response to material need CHARITY from page 1 wrote the encyclical’s chapter Catholics should not work with on Catholic charity out of fear others in charitable activities, In his new encyclical, Deus Caritas Est (God Is Love), Pope Benedict that the church was moving but it does remind them that by cites several Catholic models of social charity. Among them are toward becoming a huge chari- sharing their faith with others clockwise from top, left: St. Vincent de Paul, who devoted 50 years table organization devoid of “in dialogue — never imposing of his life in service to the poor; Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta, faith. it” — they contribute to the whose care for the sick and downtrodden in Calcutta, India, led her “I do not think the pope good of the whole world. to establish the Missionaries of Charity, an order that carries on her thinks that at all,” he said. The head of the doctrinal work around the world; St. Louise de Marillac, whose Sisters of The pope wanted to office said the pope wanted to Charity aid the sick and the neglected in the example of St. Vincent strengthen people’s understand- remind Catholics that a de Paul; and St. John Bosco, patron saint of youth best known for ing of the theology behind Christian life cannot be confined his work on behalf of homeless boys. Catholic aid work, “which does “to the sacristy, that is, a spiritu- not mean that without this the- ality that thinks it can leave ly, community, at work, in polit- reporters, “The pope also prais- ological reflection he fears these aside the essential commitment ical choices and in serving oth- es new forms of fruitful cooper- activities will lose their basis in of charity of every Christian ers. ation between state and church faith,” the archbishop said. and of the church as a commu- While the church is called, agencies,” but he does so insist- Most Catholics engaged in nity.” especially through its laity, to ing that this cooperation calls charity would say they are moti- “In the same way, it wants to purify political and economic on Catholics to act with their vated by their faith, he said, present the problem that acting structures, the church and its hearts, “which naturally does even if they have not worked on social concerns can become, organizations do not embrace not exclude planning, foresight- out a systematic theological for some — including some political parties or ideologies, he edness and professionalism. It explanation for it. H o w e v e r, Christians — just another job in said. does, however, exclude ties with Archbishop Cordes said, it also which the connection with the Archbishop Levada told all types of ideology.” is true that Catholics easily can creative love of God vanishes,” engage in relief and develop- Archbishop Levada said. ment work without any connec- The pope’s encyclical also tion to the church, so they risk makes a distinction between losing sight of charity as being Catholic social teaching’s CLOCK REPAIR primarily a reflection of God’s emphasis on working for politi- Burdie’s Clock Shop love and a religious obligation. cal, social and economic justice CNS photo “Simply, this encyclical and the obligation to engage in opposes a tendency to forget charity as an act of love for an 238 South Main St. God,” he said. “It opposes a individual. changing the world ideological- needs.” Cambridge Springs, PA 16403 tendency that is in all of us, “Christian charitable activi- ly, and it is not at the service of Cardinal Martino said the (that of) secularism.” ty must be independent of par- worldly stratagems, but it is a pope was calling on individual (814) 398-8263 Archbishop Levada said the ties and ideologies,” the pope way of making present here and Christians to let love animate all “We Make House Calls” encyclical is not saying that wrote. “It is not a means of now the love which man always their activities: within the fami- Bishop Trautman on God is Love When Interest Income Counts, It’s Time To Call Gen-See 7.1% Earn More BISHOP from page 1 Worry Less says that man longs for his other fight this wrong portrayal of Annually Holy Father points out, that image recalls Jacob’s dream in Go with experience between these forms of love which he saw angels ascending half and that in response to that erotic love. The popular portray- you can trust... there is a unity. and descending to and from longing he strives to possess it als will not satisfy. Only the love Specifically, in paragraphs heaven and earth. The Holy and regain his integrity. This is a of God will truly satisfy that Since 1975, Gen-See investors seven and eight on the encycli- Father speaks of ascending and document I wish all young peo- human longing. Using the image have done better for 5 great reasons: cal, the Holy Father clearly descending love between “eros,” ple and married people would of the ladder, we see the love of • Regular monthly checks • No fees or commissions presents the nature of this unity which seeks God, and “agape,” read. I would like to say to them: God descends to us, we are • Low minimum initial investment...$5,000 • Term 3, 4 or 5 years in a way that I do not think that which passes on the gift “It is not beyond you! Don’t be loved by God. Only that love can • Rate of interest guaranteed for term of certificate most Christians have previously received, symbolized in various scared by the length of the docu- satisfy the soul. Other things appreciated. He brings the two ways. The image of the ladder ment. You don’t need to read it may excite us, stimulate us, but Make a fresh 7.1% 1-800-507-4393 types of love together and stands out in my mind. Maybe all at once. It is a wonderful will never fulfill us. start...RIGHT NOW Annually shows how they support one that is something we need to reflection on the meaning of Returning to the Old Gen-See Capital Corporation other. That is an important mes- understand when we talk about love and shows how erotic love Testament, the prophets Hosea sage for us since the tendency love, that in eros, or erotic love, and Christian love form a single and Ezekiel present some beauti- 1-800-507-4393 over the years has been to con- we are actually seeking out a unity.” ful imagery and metaphors trast the loves. Now the Holy higher love and that God comes For college people, young about how even though Israel Father is saying that we should to us with a divine love. We have people and all others who are (representing all of us) has affirm the unity of love and erotic love, wanting more than striving to find the meaning of sinned against God’s holy love. appreciate how the one leads to ourselves, looking for that ulti- love in the world, I would hearti- God forgives us because he loves the other. mate happiness beyond us. But ly recommend this letter by the us so much. We find that forgive- For example, we read in then we meet God, who Holy Father. They see so many ness in Jesus who died on the paragraph seven: “‘Eros’ as a descends upon us, we find a new images of love, types of love, in cross for us. term to indicate ‘worldly’ love and love and there find complete ful- our world today. Here is a pro- This encyclical is just so Celebrating 100th Anniversary ‘agape,’ referring to love grounded fillment. found treatment on love which filled with an important message 1906-2006 does not disparage human love for all of us. I encourage all of in and shaped by faith. … Yet ‘eros’ The important thing is the We wish to thank the parishes of the Erie Diocese and ‘agape’ can never be completely unity between the two types of but rather raises it up to the true our people to read it and ask our for their continued support over the past century. separated. The more the two, in love that the Holy Father speaks love that God has for us. parishes to help our people their different aspects, find a proper about. Love is truly a single real- As we know from media obtain a copy of the text. I wish “Through our art, we praise God.” unity in the one reality of love, the ity even though at certain times reports, many families and mar- to thank our Holy Father for his more the true nature of love in gen- one dimension may emerge riages are in trouble today. encyclical letter and beg you to • NewNew PipePipe OrgansOrgans • RodgersRodgers DigitalDigital OOrgansrgans eral is realized.” more clearly. People are following the erro- read it. • CombinationCombination PPipe/Digitalipe/Digital OOrgansrgans • PipePipe OrganOrgan ServiceService I think those are powerful The Holy Father also dis- neous portrayals of love seen so • PipePipe OrganOrgan RestorationRestoration words. The Holy Father also cusses marriage. He talks about often on television and in the Most Rev. Donald W. Trautman, uses the image of Jacob’s Adam needing a helper and movies. The Christian church S.T.D., S.S.L. 814.456.5306 21 West 10th St. Ladder from the Bible. The God giving him a partner. He has always and continues to Bishop of Erie www.tellersorgan.com Erie, PA 16501