Heart of St. John Vianney Venerated at St. Clare of Assisi by TARA CONNOLLY “Here Is a Heart of a Saint That Contained the Very Love Staff Writer of God

“The Allentown Diocese in the Year of Our Lord”

VOL. 31, NO. 8 APRIL 18, 2019 Heart of St. John Vianney Venerated at St. Clare of Assisi By TARA CONNOLLY “Here is a heart of a saint that contained the very love Staff writer of God. We, too, are called as priests and all of you by our baptism – to have the heart of Christ,” he said. The incorrupt heart of the patron saint of parish priests Also known as the Cure d’Ars, Bishop Schlert remind- was received by Bishop of Allentown Alfred Schlert April ed the faithful that the saint did not have a comfortable 12 at St. Clare of Assisi, St. Clair as part of a national pil- life, few human accolades and was not the brightest stu- grimage tour sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. dent in the seminary. The major relic of St. John Vianney, an 18th century “That was a great consolation for many of us in the French priest revered for his holiness and sanctity of life, seminary,” he said, drawing laughter from the congrega- and whose heart has been incorrupt for more than 150 tion. years, was contained in a special reliquary and venerated After his ordination and a brief assignment in a parish, by the faithful. St. John Vianney was called to Ars. “In the history of the Diocese, this will be recorded as “It really can be considered the most menial assign- a privileged day. It is a great honor for the Diocese to re- ment. But he went with great love and great expectations ceive with joy and veneration for such a relic,” said Bishop – with God’s help – to reconvert pagans after the French Schlert to more than 400 faithful at Mass where the relic Revolution,” he said. was accepted. “It can be a message for us priests and seminarians. The relic was venerated by hundreds of more faithful Sometimes we must persevere and accept assignments that throughout the day that included the Novena to St. John we don’t choose,” said Bishop Schlert. Vianney and Veneration of the Relic every half hour. He then told the faithful that the day was a time for The day also featured Recitation of the Rosary; Praying priests to ask God for perseverance and grace. for Priests through St. John Vianney’s Intercession led by “We ask that we are able to accept and do with strength Father Adam Sedar, secretary of the Diocesan Secretariat and courage to serve God’s people no matter who they are for Clergy; and Stations of the Cross led by Monsignor or where they are,” said Bishop Schlert. David James, Diocesan vicar general. More than ever, according to Bishop Schlert, priests are The day concluded with Solemn Vespers presided by Bishop Schlert. Please see HEART page 4 }} With Holy Week approaching, Bishop Schlert told the faithful that priests recommit themselves to Holy Orders Evan Holguin, protector of the relic, transports the and asked the faithful to keep vocations in mind as they incorrupt heart of St. John Vianney into St. Clare of venerated the relic with their personal intentions. Assisi, St. Clair. (Photo by Tara Connolly) Hope from the Ashes: Leaders Pledge to Rebuild Notre Dame Cathedral PARIS (CNS) – Church Flowers are seen on the ledge of a bridge near Notre leaders joined government Dame Cathedral April 16, 2019, after a fire broke out officials in saying they ex- in the iconic Paris structure. (CNS photo/Paul Har- pect that Notre Dame Ca- ing) thedral’s grandeur will be restored as firefighters ex- tinguished the last flames Bishop Schlert’s Statement of a fast-moving blaze that seriously damaged much of Bishop Alfred Schlert issued the following the iconic structure. statement April 15. “We are living through “As Notre Dame Cathedral burns, it is difficult an extreme moment. This to comprehend this tragic loss to the cultural pat- is Holy Week and it isn’t an rimony of the world. I pray for everyone in Paris, accident,” Paris Archbishop and around the globe, who will grieve this terrible Michel Aupetit said outside event. May Our Lady watch over all those battling of the 850-year-old historic the blaze.” structure late April 15 as firefighters continued to -at tack the flames. landmark. He announced that a national reconstruction “Having marked the fund would be established. Passion of our Lord Jesus Speaking in front of the charred cathedral late April 15, Christ, we are now expe- Macron said he understood the feelings of French Catho- riencing our own passion, lics in face of the disaster and pledged the whole popula- but we know that after it will come the resurrection. We out Paris to be rung in a sign of prayer and solidarity. tion would “stand with them” in restoring it. believe in this and we will proclaim it by rebuilding this French President Emmanuel Macron praised the “ex- “Notre Dame de Paris is our history, our literature, our cathedral,” Archbishop Aupetit said. treme courage and great professionalism” of first respond- The archbishop also appealed for church bells through- ers who helped save the facade and towers of the Gothic Please see HOPE page 28 }} Pope Urges Students In This Issue to Fight Addiction to Phones Because We Are Catholic 2 VATICAN CITY (CNS) – Pope Francis told high school stu- Palm Sunday 3 dents to break their phone addiction and spend more time on real Poverty Fund Grants 3 communication with others and in moments of quiet, personal reflection. Flame of Love 5 Young people need to learn about “healthy introspection” so Young Adult Vespers 9 they can listen to their conscience and be able to distinguish it Pro-Life Commitment 12 “from the voices of selfishness and hedonism,” he said. Divine Mercy Services 15 The pope made his remarks April 13 during an audience with Children at Risk Series 26 teachers, students and their family members from Rome’s old- Please see PHONES page 27 }} 2 The A.D. Times Diocese April 18, 2019

Published biweekly or triweekly Because We Are Catholic on Thursday by Allentown Catholic Communications, Inc. at P.O. Box F Allentown, PA 18105-1538 Phone: 610-871-5200, Ext. 2264 Work at Special Learning Center Fax: 610-439-7694 E-mail: [email protected] Inspires Conversion to Catholicism President By PAUL WIRTH Bishop Alfred Schlert Diocesan Communications Staff

Secretary for External Affairs Bob Giba has had a varied career, including working with Matt Kerr the homeless, with those recovering from addiction and with victims of domestic violence. He’s even spent some time Editor away from social work as the person who puts the snacks in Jill Caravan vending machines. It was not until he arrived at St. Joseph Center for Special Staff Writers Learning, Pottsville four years ago, however, that he felt at Tara Connolly home, “exactly where I needed to be.” Tami Quigley As Director of Programs, Giba oversees the center’s work to offer children and adults with special needs Christ-cen- Design & Production tered, quality education to grow spiritually, academically, so- Marcus Schneck cially and emotionally. The work is rewarding on its own. But Giba has gotten Advertising Contact an added bonus: over the past several years, his work in the Lori Anderson center’s faith-based environment renewed his own personal faith and his own relationship with God. Office Assistant “Working here was definitely God’s plan for me,” Giba Cheryl Dano says. “It has stirred a part of my soul that I was not aware was there, and I’m happy to say that I was inspired to convert to MISSION STATEMENT Catholicism.” As part of the Catholic Press, The A.D. So God willing, this weekend at the Easter Vigil on the Times is the official newspaper for the Ro- evening before Easter Sunday, Giba will be baptized into the man Catholic Diocese of Allentown, serv- Catholic faith, he will be confirmed, and he will be invited – ing Berks, Carbon, Lehigh, Northampton for the first time – to the altar to receive the body and blood and Schuylkill counties. The A.D. Times of Jesus Christ. proclaims the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the People of God through evangelization, catechesis and the teaching of the Church, the extension of Christ’s presence in the world today. It endeavors to nourish, strengthen “Because We Are Catholic” tells the stories of how the people of the Diocese of Allentown make a and challenge the faith of its readers by con- tinually providing news information, forma- difference in the lives of others, bringing the Light of Christ to each other and to our community. tion, inspiration, religious education and Catholic identification. Under the patronage Videos of people in the series are available on the Diocesan website at www.allentowndiocese.org/bishop-blog. of Mary, Mother of the Church, The A.D. Times serves the Church so that the King- dom of God might become a reality in our society transformed by His Good News.

POLICY STATEMENTS The A.D. Times will consider all editorial copy and photos submitted in a fair and ob- Diocese Alert About Text Messages jective manner. The newspaper reserves the right to reject or edit any submission. The Diocese of Allentown is alerting parishioners about an apparent scam. Any advertising copy accepted does not In the past week a number of people from several different parishes have notified the Diocese necessarily reflect the views, opinions or that they received a text message on their cell phone from someone pretending to be a Diocesan endorsement of The A.D. Times and/or its publisher. The A.D. Times reserves the right priest asking them to purchase gift cards for him. to reject any advertising copy submitted. These are not legitimate requests and are not from a Diocesan priest. No Diocesan priest will ever solicit funds by text message. DEADLINES Advertising copy must be received by Mon- The Diocese is not aware that anyone has fallen victim to this scam. But it does want to re- day of the week before publication. News mind everyone if you are concerned about a text message you receive, always verify it before copy must be received by Thursday of the week before publication. you take any action.

MEMBERSHIPS Catholic Press Association, Rockville Centre, N.Y. VICTIM ASSISTANCE COORDINATOR Catholic News Service, The Diocese of Allentown provides assistance to anyone who, as a minor, was sexually abused by a priest, Washington, D.C. deacon or employee/volunteer of the Diocese/Parish Catholic Press Association Award Winner Parents, guardians, children and survivors of sexual abuse are invited and encouraged to contact the Diocese 1991, 1992, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, of Allentown for more information about this program. The fullness of compassion should be extended to these 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2010, victims by the Church. 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, To speak directly to the Victim Assistance Coordinator, please call the direct line 1-800-791-9209. 2017, 2018 To learn more about the Diocese of Allentown’s Youth Protection Programs, Sexual Abuse Policy and Code of Conduct, please visit www.allentowndiocese.org and click on “Youth Protection” at top right. POSTAL INFORMATION The A.D. Times (USPS 004-111) is pub- COORDINADOR DE ASISTENCIA A LAS VÍCTIMAS lished on Thursdays, biweekly January to La Diócesis de Allentown provee asistencia a cualquier persona que, como menor de edad, fue abusado May; triweekly June to September; biweek- sexualmente por un sacerdote, diácono o empleado/voluntario de la Diócesis/Parroquia. ly October to November; and triweekly in Los padres, tutores, niños y los sobrevivientes de abuso sexual están invitados a contactar la Diócesis de Al- December, at a subscription cost of $20 per lentown para obtener más información sobre este programa. La plenitud de compasión debe extenderse a las year by Allentown Catholic Communica- víctimas por la Iglesia. tions, Inc. at 1515 Martin Luther King Jr. Para hablar directamente con el coordinador de asistencia a las víctimas por favor llame a la línea directa Drive, Allentown, PA 18102-4500. Periodi- 1-800-791-9209. cals Postage paid at Allentown, PA and ad- Para obtener más información acerca de los Programas de Protección de la Juventud, ditional mailing offices. Política de Abuso Sexual y el Código de Conducta de la Diócesis de Allentown, por favor visite POSTMASTER: Send address changes www.allentowndiocese.org y haga clic en “Protección de la Juventud” en la parte superior to The A.D. Times, P.O. Box F, Allentown, derecha. PA 18105-1538 April 18, 2019 Diocese The A.D. Times 3 Palm Sunday Marks Arrival of Jesus in Jerusalem

Catholics at the Palm Sunday 10:30 a.m. Mass watch as the procession moves down the center aisle toward the front of the church. Above, Bishop of Allentown Alfred Schlert, center, carries palms in procession on Palm Sunday, April 14 at the Cathedral of St. Catharine of Siena, Allentown. The feast commemorates Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem the week before his passion and crucifixion, when the people paved his path with olive branches as a sign of victory and reverential honor. (Photos by John Simitz) Left, Deacon John Maria, who is scheduled to be ordained a priest Saturday, June 1, preaches the homily. Right, among those participating in the Mass are Mary Reynolds and her 5-year-old daughter Charlotte. Below, Parishioners read along with the Passion of Our Lord on the Feast of Palm Sunday.

The basket of palms to be blessed and taken home by parishioners to symbol- ize Christ among them throughout the year. Diocese Awards $119,000 in Poverty Relief Fund Grants The Diocese of Allentown has an- at schools throughout the Diocese. Society at St. Anne Parish in Bethlehem gency shelter that offers supportive ser- nounced that 18 programs and agen- • $5,000 to the Central City Project at for its rental and utility assistance pro- vices to the homeless in Pottsville. cies from the five counties that make Allentown Central Catholic High School gram. • $10,000 to the School Sisters of St. up the Diocese have been awarded Pov- for an urban garden and community din- • $10,000 to the St. Vincent de Paul Francis in Bethlehem for restoration of an erty Relief Fund grants totaling a record ners for the poor. Society at Notre Dame Parish in Bethle- outbuilding at their farm project, which $119,000. • $10,000 to the St. Vincent de Paul hem for rental, utility and food assistance. provides vegetables and food for area The money is allocated from the pro- Society at the Cathedral of St. Catharine • $10,000 to the St. Vincent de Paul food banks. ceeds of the Poverty Relief Fund collec- of Siena Parish in Allentown for basic Society at St. Joseph Parish in Summit • $4,000 to Stephen’s Place in Bethle- tion taken up in the 84 parishes of the Di- needs of people in emergency situations. Hill for community dinners, utility relief, hem, a transitional housing program for ocese on the third weekend in November. • $3,500 to the Bountiful Table Pro- a community garden, clothing and house- male inmates to provide recreation activi- Applications for the grants came to gram at St. Matthew the Evangelist Par- hold items support. ties, life skills and counseling. $143,000, more money than was received ish in Minersville for its delivery food • $1,000 to the Divine Mercy Cenacle • $4,000 to the Whitehall-Coplay in the collection. program. at St. Joseph the Worker Parish in Ore- Hunger Initiative through St. Elizabeth of This year’s recipients, their awards • $5,000 to the St. Vincent de Paul So- field for its food pantry. Hungary Parish in Whitehall. and the programs the grant will fund are ciety at St. John XXIII Parish in Tamaqua • $2,000 to the Outreach Group at St. • $10,000 for Clare of Assisi House as follows: for its baby food ministry. Francis of Assisi Parish in Allentown for in Reading, which provides transitional • $8,000 to Holy Family Manor, Beth- • $10,000 to the St. Vincent de Paul food, clothing and financial assistance. residential services and life skills training lehem for services to indigent residents. Society at St. Joseph Parish in Coopers- • $1,500 to St. Mary Parish in Kutz- for women coming out of prison. • $5,000 to Catholic Charities, Dio- burg for emergency and longer-term town to support local ecumenical efforts The 2019 Poverty Relief Fund collec- cese of Allentown for counseling services housing needs. for the Potato Project. tion will be taken up at all churches in the • $10,000 to the St. Vincent de Paul • $10,000 to Servants to All, an emer- Diocese of Allentown Nov. 16 and 17. 4 The A.D. Times Diocese April 18, 2019

“Vocations to the priesthood are the future of our Church. We need good, holy Heart and healthy men. We need them to be of }}Continued from page 1 the highest quality. “Please pray for us that we may al- needed today, and people need to be re- ways have grace to live out that calling to minded that it is a very noble calling. service of Jesus, his Church and to you.” “It’s a calling to conform our lives St. John Vianney was born in 1786 to Christ in a unique way. When lived and served as a simple parish priest in with holiness – it serves the salvation of the French town of Ars. He was known to souls,” he said. spend as many as 18 hours a day hearing Asking his brother priests to not be confessions from people who traveled discouraged or downtrodden, Bishop from throughout Europe to see the priest Schlert told them to never give up on be- who was known for his holiness and pi- ing nourished by the priesthood. ety. He died in 1859. “It’s not an easy time in the priest- Pope Pius XI canonized him in 1925 hood. But it is a time that priesthood is and proclaimed him patron saint of parish needed more than ever,” noted Bishop priests in 1929. His incorrupt body and Schlert. heart are displayed at his shrine in Ars.

Bishop of Allentown Alfred Schlert venerates the first class relic of the 18th century saint. (Photo by John Simitz)

Above, faithful venerate the relic of St. John Vianney as part of the national pilgrimage tour sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. (Photo by John Simitz)

Right, hundreds of faithful listen to Bishop Schlert talk about the life of the patron saint of parish priests. (Photo by John Simitz)

Above, seminarians for the Diocese of Allentown sing a hymn during the Mass. (Photo by John Simitz)

Above right, students from Sacred Heart School, Bath participate in the special Mass. (Photo by John Simitz)

Right, Bishop Schlert, center, celebrates Mass with, from left: Monsignor John Chizmar, pastor of St. Peter the Fisherman, Lake Harmony; Father Adam Sedar, secretary of the Diocesan Secretariat for Clergy; Monsignor William Glosser, pastor of St. Clare; and Monsignor David James, Diocesan vicar general. (Photo by John Simitz) April 18, 2019 Diocese The A.D. Times 5 Flame of Love Consecration to Jesus Through Mary May 31 By TAMI QUIGLEY A Diocesan-wide consecration will Staff writer take place Friday, May 31 at 7 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. Catharine of Siena, Al- The Flame of Love Movement in the lentown, during a special Holy Hour that United States is planning a Coast to Coast Bishop Alfred Schlert will celebrate for Consecration to Jesus through Mary Fri- the three men who will be ordained as day, May 31. priests at the Cathedral the next morning. This special day is the commemo- Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy ration of three Marian feasts: Feast of Trinity (SOLT) Father James Blount, a the Visitation; Lady of All Nations; and spiritual advisor of the Flame of Love of Mary, Mediatrix of All the Immaculate Heart of Graces. Mary Movement, USA, Flame of Love has A Diocesan-wide will celebrate a Healing asked the U.S. Bishops to Mass Thursday, May 16 unite with them during this consecration will at 6 p.m. at St. Thomas special time of grace to take place Friday, More, Allentown. consecrate their respective May 31 at 7 p.m. It is recommended dioceses to Jesus through at the Cathedral people prepare themselves the Immaculate Heart of of St. Catharine of for 33 days beforehand; to Mary May 31. consecrate on May 31, the “What a beautiful gift Siena, Allentown, preparation period needs to give our Lord Jesus during a special to begin Sunday, April who wish to do so may use the book www.waytoemmaus.com. Books may Christ and his mother on Holy Hour that 28, the feast of the Marian “Consecration to Jesus” by St. Louis de also be purchased online at www.Ama- the very last day of the Bishop Alfred saint, St. Louis de Mont- Montfort, which can be ordered at www. zon.com. month that is dedicated Schlert will cele- fort. myconsecration.org. Milad Allaham, a regional leader with to her,” said Monsignor This year that day is For large orders email raymooney@ the Flame of Love and parishioner of St. Ralph Chieffo, spiritual brate for the three also Divine Mercy Sun- myconsecration.org. Mooney is a former Thomas More, said, “This consecration advisor for the Flame of men who will be day. It is also the date of parishioner of St. Thomas More and na- presents a wonderful opportunity for our Love of the Immaculate ordained at the the first celebration of tional director of parish consecration for Diocese to unite with the entire country Heart of Mary Movement, Cathedral the next Divine Mercy Sunday, at- www.myconsecration.org. in powerful prayer.” USA. morning. tended by St. Faustina her- Books may also be purchased at lo- The consecration will be live streamed “Our world needs her, self. cal religious stores, such as Abundant May 31 from both the National Divine Holy Mother Church The Diocese of Al- Graces, 3348 Easton Ave., Bethlehem, Mercy Shrine, Stockbridge, Massachu- needs her greatly, and the lentown recommends the 610-865-1702, www.abundantgraceson- setts, and St. Mary Magdalene, Media. United States of America needs her now, faithful prepare by using St. Louis de line.com; and The Way to Emmaus, 1325 For more information, visit www. now more than ever.” Montfort’s consecration prayer. Those Chestnut St., Emmaus, 610-965-8855, flameoflove.us. New Video, Campaign for Natural Family Planning Launched Here’s a quick quiz: What’s organic, He noted that even NFP cannot be easy, inexpensive, more than 99 percent morally used to permanently exclude effective, and aligned with Catholic children from marriage. teachings? Natural Family Planning is: The answer is Natural Family Plan- • 100 percent natural – It protects the ning, the subject of a new promotional body from the harmful side effects of campaign launched by the Diocese of drugs, devices and chemicals. Allentown and aimed at young married • Cost-effective – It costs significantly couples who are thinking about when to less than birth control. start a family. • Easy – It only takes a few minutes a The centerpiece of the new commu- day to observe, chart and interpret signs nications is a two-minute video packed of fertility. with information about the family plan- • Effective – It’s 99.9 percent effective ning method that works equally well for in achieving the intended outcome – ei- preventing pregnancy and for deciding ther pregnancy or prevention. when to have a baby. • Life-respecting – It is morally ac- “Starting a family is something that ceptable and aligns with Catholic teach- needs time, faith and planning,” said ings. Bob Olney, coordinator of the Diocesan • Good for marriages – It can help en- Office of Marriage and Natural Family hance a marriage and improve commu- Planning. nication on many levels, including spiri- “We encourage each couple to discern tual, physical, intellectual and emotional. friends. The video is available on the new Natural Family Planning introductory God’s will for their family, and pursue his The campaign will appear on Diocese Natural Family Planning website, www. classes, in locations across the Diocese, will in a life-respecting and morally ac- social media channels, and everyone is AllentownDiocese.org/nfp. throughout the year. More information ceptable way,” Olney said. encouraged to share the posts with their The Diocese offers more than 20 free can be found on the diocesan website. Good Friday Collection Benefits the Holy Land On Good Friday, the Catholic Church rael, Jordan, Cyprus, Syria, Lebanon, throughout the world will take up the Egypt, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Turkey, Iran and “Collection for the Holy Land.” This spe- Iraq. cial collection originated from the Popes’ As a rule, the Custody of the Holy wishes to maintain a strong bond between Land receives the greater part of the col- the Holy Places of the Holy Land and all lection, and what remains goes to the Christians of the world. Congregation for the Oriental Churches, It is the main source of sustenance for and is used for the formation of candi- life around the Holy Places, and is the dates for the priesthood, support of the tool through which the Custody of the clergy, scholastic activity, cultural forma- Holy Land is able to sustain and carry tion, and subsidies to the different eccle- forward the important mission to which siastical circumscriptions in the Middle it is called: to preserve the holy places, East. the stones of memory, and to favor the In a recent letter sent to the bishops Christian presence, the living stones of of the world, Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, the Holy Land, through many activities Prefect of the Congregation for Eastern of solidarity, such as the maintenance of Churches, made an appeal for the support pastoral, educational, welfare, health and of the Good Friday collection: social structures. “The outcry of thousands of persons The territories that benefit from the [living in the Holy Land] who are de- their own human dignity, continues to us to embrace them through Christian collection are Jerusalem, Palestine, Is- prived of everything, at times even of reach us, heart-breaking us and inviting charity, a sure source of hope.” 6 The A.D. Times Diocese April 18, 2019 April 18, 2019 Diocese The A.D. Times 7 8 The A.D. Times Worship April 18, 2019

Sunday Scripture Sunday, April 21 Sunday, April 28 Easter Sunday Second Sunday of Easter First reading First Reading Acts of the Apostles 10:34a, 37-43 Acts of the Apostles 5:12-16 Responsorial Psalm Responsorial Psalm Psalms 118:1-2, 16ab-17, 22-23 Psalms 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24 Second Reading Second Reading Colossians 3:1-4 Revelation 1:9-11a, 12-13, 17-19 Gospel Gospel John 20:1-9 John 20:19-31

Prayers for Priests, Deacons, Vocations Please kindly remember in your prayers all of the living and deceased priests and deacons of our Diocese. Please also pray for our seminarians and for an increase in vocations to the priesthood and religious life. Prayer for the Perseverance of Vocations O God, you have constituted your only-begotten Son supreme and eternal priest for the glory of your majesty and the salvation of mankind: grant that those whom he has chosen ministers and dispensers of his mysteries may be found faithful in fulfilling the ministry they have received. We ask this through Jesus Christ Our Lord. Amen. Serran Prayer for Vocations O God, who wills not the death of a sinner but rather that he be converted and live, grant we beseech you, through the intercession of the Blessed Mary ever Virgin, St. Joseph her spouse, St. Junipero Serra and all the saints, an increase of laborers for your Church, fellow laborers with Christ, to spend and consume themselves for souls through the same Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen. Recommended to Your Prayers by Pope Francis Apostleship of Prayer Intention for May Evangelization: That the Church in Africa, through the commitment of its members, may be the seed of unity among her peoples and a sign of hope for this continent. The monthly intentions are also available on video, with a reflection, or download the app at http://apostleshipofprayer.org. Switch to an Online Subscription of The A.D. Times To transfer your print subscription Email address of The A.D. Times to instead receive Name an email notification with a link to each Address new issue posted on the diocesan web- Parish site, send the following information to Daytime phone number [email protected] or fill Subscriber number (on line imme- out the submission form on the diocesan diately above your name printed in the website, http://www.allentowndiocese. lower left corner of this issue) org/ad-times. April 18, 2019 Youth & Young Adults The A.D. Times 9 Young Adults Gather for ‘Vespers with the Bishop’ on Laetare Sunday By TAMI QUIGLEY Staff writer

“I’m grateful to be with you this evening on Laetare Sunday – even in Lent, the Church calls us to rejoice, Easter is near,” Bishop Alfred Schlert told young adults during “Vespers with the Bishop” March 31 at Holy Guardian Angels, Reading. Young adults ages 18 to 35 were invited to a solemn vespers with the Bishop during the evening sponsored by the Di- ocesan Office of Youth, Young Adult and Family Ministry (OYYAFM). Assisting Bishop Schlert were Father Robert Finlan, pastor of Holy Guardian Angels; and Father Mark Searles, director of the Diocesan Office for Vocations Promotion and chaplain of Allentown Central Catholic High School. Providing music during vespers were Bishop Alfred Schlert presides at “Vespers with the Bishop” March 31 at Holy cantor and organist Kolbe Eidle, younger Guardian Angels, Reading. (Photos by John Simitz) brother of seminarian Keaton Eidle; and Franciscan Sister Martha Zammatore, li- aison with the Diocesan Office of Prison Ministry, who alternated with Eidle on the organ. David Yingling, parishioner of St. Jane Frances de Chantal, Easton served as lector. Confessions were available after the service. Those attending included Mary Fran Right, David Yingling, parishioner of Hartigan, Diocesan Secretary of Catholic St. Jane Frances de Chantal, Easton, Life and Evangelization; Alexa Smith, serves as lector. director of OYYAFM; Father Stephan Isaac, assistant pastor of St. Ignatius Loyola, Sinking Spring and chaplain of The Bishop thanked Father Finlan Berks Catholic High School, Reading; for opening the parish to vespers, and to and Rick Dooley, OYYAFM for organizing the event. assistant director “Thanks to all of you who have come of the Diocesan out tonight on this Sunday of rejoicing to Office of Adult “Tonight our worship God in the Liturgy of the Hours.” Formation. rejoicing Vespers, also called Evening Prayer, A social fol- comes from Young adults raise their voices in song. is part of the Liturgy of the Hours, also lowed at the parish known as the Divine Office. In the - Lit for an opportunity the depths urgy of the Hours, the Church fulfills to meet Bishop of faith, – that fades. It’s not the joy of not having “When there is faith, there is the joy Jesus’ command to “pray always” (Luke Schlert. Alanna from know- your bracket busted,” he said, referring to we speak of tonight.” 18:1, 1 Thessalonians 5:17). Through this Boudreau pro- ing we have March Madness. “It’s not the kind of joy “Tonight our rejoicing comes from the prayer, the people of God sanctify the day vided music, and a loving that’s fleeting. It’s the joy of knowing the depths of faith, from knowing we have a by continual praise of God and prayers of hors d’oeuvres by Lord is near us, attends us.” loving father,” said Bishop Schlert. intercession for the needs of the world. Boscov’s Catering father.” Bishop Schlert said in the Gospel of “It’s important for each of us to have a The Liturgy of the Hours includes sev- were provided for the Prodigal Son we see how joy can be spirit of joy, which leads to faithfulness, eral specified times of prayer. The most noshing during the fleeting. The son who spent his - inheri which leads to hope.” important times, called the “hinge hours,” time of fellowship. tance, by grace came back; the faithful The Bishop said today’s world is in- are Morning Prayer (which takes place “Even in our sinfulness, our Lord son felt put by the wayside. “The joy of creasingly cynical, and people are di- upon the rising), and Evening Prayer attends us, drawing us near,” Bishop the father is the joy we hope to have. The vided. (which takes place as dusk begins to fall). Schlert said in his homily. father loved both his sons, even in their “Tonight we offer to the Lord our joy- The other hours are the Office of The Bishop said Scripture and the sinfulness.” fulness, and in return ask him to always Readings (a service with a biblical read- teachings of the Church lead us to a joy- The Bishop said loneliness can be part make us faithful to him … and be the joy- fulness. of the life of millennials, and this leads to ful person we were created to be.” Please see VESPERS page 10 }} “It’s not the kind of joy a child has seeking joys that are fleeting and passing opening presents on Christmas morning to assuage that loneliness.

Enjoying the social are, from left: Father Stephan Isaac; Ann Bartolacci and Steven Thomas, parishioners of St. Jane; Abby and Jim Maria, parishioners of St. Ignatius Loyola, Sinking Spring; and Yingling. Jim and Abby Maria are the Bishop Schlert greets Erin Trautmann, parishioner of St. Joseph the Worker, son and daughter-in-law of Deacon John Maria, transitional deacon serving at Orefield, after the service. the Cathedral of St. Catharine of Siena, Allentown. 10 The A.D. Times Youth & Young Adults April 18, 2019 Theology on Tap to Discuss ‘Gender and God’s Plan for Humanity’ “Gender and God’s Plan for Human- The monthly series is sponsored by ity” will be discussed at the next “Theol- the Diocesan Office of Youth, Young ogy on Tap Monday, May 13 at 7 p.m. at Adult and Family Ministry (OYYAFM). Hops at the Paddock, 1945 W. Columbia The series is designed to welcome St., Allentown. married or single young adults ages 21 In a culture where gender is regarded to 35 in a casual setting where they can as a social construct rather than a biologi- grow in the faith and share community cal reality, it is easy to lose sight of the with one another. beauty of the sexes and the role of com- Theology on Tap events are free of plementarity in God’s plan. charge. Food and beverages can be or- Join us as Sister Geralyn Schmidt of dered from the menu at the event site. the Diocese of Harrisburg discusses gen- For more information, visit www.al- der theory from the perspective of the lentowndiocese.org/tot or email Alexa foundation of the human person. Smith at [email protected]. Logos and Lagers for Berks Young Adults Join Berks County Young Adults for ship at a local establishment. their Bible Study group, Logos and La- The next meeting will be May 2 at St. gers. Ignatius Loyola, Sinking Spring. The group meets the first Thursday of For more information, go to Facebook each month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. to dis- page “Logos and Lagers: A Catholic cuss the Mass readings for the upcoming Bible Study for Young Adults in Berks weekend, followed by food and fellow- County.”

Inklings Young Adult Book Club to Discuss ‘The Story of a Soul’ From Tolkien to Thomas Merton through the lens of Catholicism. – from Shakespeare to St. Augustine – The next meeting will be Friday, from Jane Austen to Julian of Norwich – April 26 at 7 p.m., at a location to be an- great works of literature have the power nounced. to challenge and strengthen our Christian The discussion will be on “The Story faith. of a Soul” by St. Thérèse of Lisieux. “Lehigh Valley Inklings,” a book club For more information, visit the group’s for young adult Catholics ages 21 to 35, Facebook page, “Lehigh Valley Inklings: meets once a month to explore a classic Young Catholic Book Club.”

There will be a Diocesan Homeschool Mass will be followed by a reception Mass celebrated by Bishop Alfred Schlert with light refreshments. Vespers Homeschool Friday, May 10 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ca- Homeschool families are encouraged }}Continued from page 9 thedral of St. Catharine of Siena, Allen- to attend. Mass May 10 town. For questions, call Kevin Damitz at ing and a reading from the Fathers or 610-437-3491. Church writers or a reading related to a saint which may take place at any time of day), a Daytime Prayer (which may take place at midmorning, midday or midaft- ernoon), and Night Prayer (said before going to sleep.) Bishops, priests, deacons and many men and women in consecrated life pray the Liturgy of the Hours each day. Their work is organized around this prayer, which orients their daily living of their vocations. Lay people are encouraged to pray the Liturgy of the Hours as well, especially Morning and Evening Prayer. Many parishes in the United States schedule com- munal Morning and Evening Prayer on a regular basis. Evening Prayer gives thanks for the day just past and makes an evening sacrifice of praise to God (Psalm 141:1). April 18, 2019 Diocese The A.D. Times 11 Lenten Reflection for Men: The Church Needs Your Masculinity By JOSEPH NICOLELLO Special to The A.D. Times

A record number of men packed into the basement of the Cathedral of St. Cath- arine of Siena, Allentown on a beautiful March morning, sharing in conversation, freshly baked donuts and coffee, in preparation for Bishop of Allentown Alfred Schlert to give a Lenten talk upstairs in the Cathedral, followed by Father Ber- nard Ezaki. Whereas years prior had seen a normal crowd size ranging between 65 and 100 men, this year saw 165 registered and in attendance. Deacon Mike Doncsecz led with morning prayer. He prayed for the greater glory of God to be with all the Diocesan men in attendance and across the land, in thought and in deed: “Teach us to be leaders in our homes, in our communities, at work and in our church.” The second speaker was Cristian Ro- Father Bernard Ezaki addresses attendees during a Lenten Reflection for Men March 9 at the Cathedral of St. Catha- jas, who had a pivotal hand in putting the rine of Siena, Allentown. (Photos by John Simitz) morning’s events together. Rojas advo- cated the need for men both of youth and it.” linity of men. ings we normally take for granted. “In experience, of all backgrounds, ignited The morning crowd smilingly nodded “The Church needs men’s mascu- this way we can relish what we have and by love of the faith. in approval. linity as much as the Church needs the learn gratefulness. The evil one hates Rojas had the pews in stitches as he Ascending the ambo, Bishop Schlert femininity of women. Both complement gratitude.” recounted how precisely he’d been led read from the Book of Sirach. He then each other and are equal in the life of the 3. Fasting, abstinence make us more to do so, relating a late-night post-preg- spoke on how this Lenten season we must Church. compassionate (to others and as humans nancy McDonald’s run – where he both focus on something unspoken of these “The model of men as provider and altogether). “St. Teresa of Avila loved forgot his wallet and bumped into Bishop days. protector is still valid. Too often in soci- pears. During Lent she kept one all day Schlert. “The quote from Sirach speaks about ety, there is a denial of this role. Society on her desk. When asked why she would “It was there, at McDonald’s, that shaking the wheat until the husks are devalues this aspect to our detriment.” torture herself so, she responded, ‘If I Bishop Schlert not only paid for my shaken out,” said Bishop Schlert. “Isn’t Bishop Schlert used two examples: cannot resist a pear, how will I resist Sa- cheeseburgers, but told me, ‘I want you to that really the purpose of Lent? To spiri- “In 1912, when the Titanic was sinking, tan?’” serve on the Commission for Men.’ And tually examine our lives and see what it was ‘women and children first.’ One 4. Rid ourselves of self-deception of when the Bishop says something, you do husks of sin have to be eliminated.” hundred years later, in 2012, the Costa self-sufficiency. “We are dependent on He pointed out, “The ruggedness of Concordia capsized off the coast of Italy. other human beings – even bread and Lent can especially appeal to the mascu- While many passengers died, the captain wine are social products.” abandoned his ship and fled to shore. 5. Blessing from above. “We empty Which example of masculinity best ourselves out for blessings the way a serves society? whaling ship used to make way for cap- “Masculinity, virtuously lived, is nec- ture by doing away with the ballast.” essary in our society. It is not ‘toxic,’ but “And so with these pillars established rather fulfills an essential role in the mar- we have also five fingers with which to riage, in family, in the Church and in our give the devil a big, fat knuckle sand- nation. wich.” “Never be ashamed of being properly In closing, attendees were left with masculine. It is how God made you, and these illuminating words from Deacon how he calls you to serve him on earth.” Anthony Campanell: Father Ezaki spoke next, with a talk “May the ashes of Ash Wednesday centered on five Lenten pillars: turn into the fire of the Holy Spirit in our 1. Spiritual benefits. “By saying no we hearts to bring masculinity back into the increase our ability to turn away from ille- Church, society, and further bring others gitimate pleasures. Satan himself thought to encounter Jesus Christ, both leading by Jesus would be at his weakest at the end example and walking alongside our fami- of his 40-day fast – Satan was wrong.” lies, brothers and sisters in the faith, and 2. Help us to appreciate the bless- God Almighty. Amen.”

Cristian Rojas talks to the group Deacon Mike Doncsecz welcomes about the Commission for Men, which the men to the morning event. sponsored the Lenten event.

Men listen during the talk by Bishop Alfred Schlert. Father Ezaki chats with Roy D’Ginto, left, and Tim Haring. 12 The A.D. Times Diocese April 18, 2019 Despite Criticism from Pro-Abortion Catholic Pro-Life Commitment Extends Far Beyond the Womb By TAMI QUIGLEY as caring only for the unborn child and not for the woman or the child Staff writer once he or she is born. The Catholic Church is committed to the pro-life cause of preventing But the Church’s commitment extends far beyond the womb, the loss of life through abortion. to help babies and children in their young lives. And in the Diocese of Many who are pro-abortion criticize the Church and other pro-lifers Allentown, there are an array of organizations to do just that.

Diocesan Office of Pro-Life Activities and Social Concerns As part of the Diocesan Secretariat for Catholic Life and Evangelization, the Office of Pro-Life Activities and Social Concerns coordinates activities and programs within the Diocese and assists parishes in implementing pro-life activities, including educational, pastoral, public policy programs, and prayer and worship. The office partners with the Knights of Columbus to sponsor the annual “Stand Up for Life” essay contest each January, and participates in the annual March for Life in Washington, D.C. and the March for Life in Reading. Mary Fran Hartigan is secretary of the Diocesan Secretariat for Catholic Life and Evangelization and director of the Office of Pro-Life Activities and Social Concerns. For more information, contact [email protected] or 610-289-8900 ext. 2026, or visit www.allentowndiocese.org/pro-life-and-social-concerns. Abortion Statistics Pennsylvania’s Abortion Control Act requires that the State Department of Every county in Pennsylvania had at least one resident who had an abortion in Health prepare and distribute annually a comprehensive report on abortion. The 2017 with Philadelphia having the highest number, accounting for 39 percent of report for 2017 was released in late December 2018. all abortions (11,140). The county with the second highest number was Allegheny Mary Fran Hartigan, secretary of the Diocesan Secretariat for Catholic Life (3,120). Bradford and Sullivan had the fewest with two each. and Evangelization and director of the Office of Pro-Life Activities and Social Of all counties, 32 (47.8 percent) showed a decrease in abortions from the pre- Concerns, shared the summary of the report, which states there were 30,011 abor- vious year. tions in 2017 – a decrease of 870 from the prior year. It is also the lowest number In 2017 there were 11,496 medical (non-surgical) abortions. This number con- of abortions ever recorded in Pennsylvania. The highest number was 65,777 abor- tinues to increase each year (in 2016 that number was 11,420). tions in 1980. In addition, 1,627 of the surgical abortions were by the dilation and evacuation The largest age group having abortions was 20-24 (30.1 percent) of all abor- (D & E) method. A D & E abortion is generally committed in the second trimester tions. But there were 810 abortions committed on minors under 18, including 10 and actually involves dismembering the child in the womb and then removing the on girls 12 and under. fetal parts. It is a barbaric act prohibited in SB 3, which was vetoed by the governor Approximately 43 percent (12,865) of abortions were committed on African- at the end of 2017. American women. This remarkably high number remains a serious cause for con- Also, 14,172 abortions (47 percent) were on women who had at least one prior cern as only about 6 percent of women in Pennsylvania are of African-American abortion, with 1,082 of these women having had four or more prior abortions. descent.

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Allentown “Catholic Charities, Dio- cese of Allentown has a Preg- nancy and Parenting Support Services program that provides guidance, understand- ing, and support to women, men, and families during and after pregnancy in exploring the positive options of parenting and adoption,” said Rob Nicolella, interim executive director of Catholic Charities and county administra- tor of Catholic Charities’ Lehigh-Northampton Counties Office, Allentown. “These services are available to any person within the Diocese of Allentown.” The services to be provided are: problem-solving and decision-making guidance; free, confidential pregnancy test; pregnancy support counseling and education; assistance with baby-related items (as available); adoption planning; parenting support; and referrals for pre- and post-natal care. Nicolella said Catholic Charities recently hired a new employee to increase the abil- Mary Hoban, right, discusses stress and positive parenting skills during a ity to provide Pregnancy and Parenting Support to all five counties. “Sister Bernardine Pregnancy Support ParentinG Workshop in 2011 that was also attended by Lomema comes to us from the Sisters of the Precious Blood,” said Nicolella. Bishop John Barres, then Bishop of Allentown, third from right, and Father Contact the county offices of Catholic Charities to schedule an appointment: Berks, Brian Miller, now pastor of St. Joseph, Frackville and chaplain of Marian High 610-376-7144; Lehigh-Northampton, 610-435-1541; and Schuylkill Carbon, 570-628- School, Tamaqua, left. (File photo) 0466; or email Teri Dakuginow, [email protected]. Adoption services, offered in all offices, provides home studies and placement ser- Catholic Charities also provides mental health counseling free of charge to Catholic vices for infants; Search and Reunion requests accepted from adult adoptees. Contact schools, and has a community center that runs programs and events for children. Teri Dakuginow, programs director, [email protected].

Love Saves Lives Baby Shower Pro-lifers gathered July 29, 2018 to celebrate lives in a special way by throwing a Maggie Sweet and her husband have two parishes. They spend time at Holy Infan- Love Saves Lives Baby Shower for several women who chose not to abort their ba- cy, Bethlehem, where her parents are parishioners, and their local parish, St. Agnes, bies through the prayerful efforts of these pro-life groups who pray outside of Planned Quakertown, Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Parenthood. The pro-life campaigns that gave the shower were Lehigh Valley Pro-Life Futures, This shower, as was a similar one held Oct. 22, 2016, was held at the Quakertown Helpers of God’s Precious Infants, Silent No More Awareness Campaign in the Le- home of Christopher and Maggie Sweet, regional coordinator of the Silent No More Awareness Campaign in the Lehigh Valley. Please see SHOWER page 13 }} April 18, 2019 Diocese The A.D. Times 13

Volunteers gather at the baby shower, from left, Jessica Herr, Maggie Sweet, Kathleen Malek and Melissa Dziemitko. (Photo courtesy of Maggie Sweet)

Karaliss, one of the young women in whose honor the baby shower was given, gave birth to a baby boy. Marisol, one of the young women in Another young woman, Yjaira, had whose honor the baby shower was a baby girl but could not attend the given, with her baby daughter. (Photo shower. (Photo courtesy of Maggie courtesy of Maggie Sweet) Sweet) Shower }}Continued from page 12 Sing For America shares its gift of music at the shower, from left, Teara, Tasia high Valley, 40 Days for Life, Rachel’s Vineyard and Pennsylvanians for Human Life. and Taryn Gilbert. (Photo courtesy of Maggie Sweet) This is love put into action, which demonstrates the care for women who are in a vulnerable situation,” said Hartigan. “Praise God. His graces continue to pour out upon the Lehigh Valley’s Gospel of flags,” Sweet said. Life campaigns,” said Sweet. In addition to snow cones, there were plenty of games and activities for all the chil- Sweet said early in 2018, Jeanne Mancini, president of March for Life, discussed dren, such as the cow milking contest, face painting, arts and crafts, and swimming. how the 45th annual March for Life’s theme, “Love Saves Lives,” embodies the mis- Sweet said several of these children even volunteered their time as lifeguards. sion of the pro-life movement. Sweet said several vendors who have found a way to work from home and still “Choosing life is not always easy, but it is the loving, empowering and self-sacrifi- evangelize the Gospel of Life were invited, such as Theresa Shemanski (coordinator cial option. Love is universally attractive because it is directed toward others. Love is of 40 Days for Life in the LV/Berkshire Hathaways), Anne Foose (pro-life speaker, what we all strive for because deep-down we are all drawn to give of ourselves in this Young Living Oils) and Sal Rizzo (Pennsylvanians for Human Life). way. Love saves lives in countless ways,” said Mancini. Each of the mothers received brand new cribs, car seats, high chairs, play pens, “And so it has,” Sweet said. “With prayers, daily Mass and frequent visitation to strollers, baby clothes and enough diapers to last an entire year. “This year we even the Eucharist, we had four women turn away from Planned Parenthood in Allentown, had a donation room full of clothing for each of the families,” Sweet said. choosing life. “It’s been several years these campaigns have been sharing this type of love for “This past spring the 40 Days for Life campaign united together elevating this mothers who choose life. In each event they discover ideas networking with other year’s theme by bringing it to the source and summit where love truly begins …in the campaigns in counties like Bucks, Montgomery and Berks.” Holy Eucharist. “Not only were families restored, but one post-abortive mother in attendance “It’s not so much that four babies were saved, it’s more like ‘wow,’ how God’s signed up for hope and healing with Rachel’s Vineyard,” Sweet said. “Also in atten- presence was truly felt even among the unbelievers – from abortion-minded women, dance were previous Planned Parenthood workers who have also joined our campaign asking us to remove ourselves from their sight – to choosing life within minutes of as their newfound ‘best friends.’ counseling, and wondering how this type of love could exist.” “A profound thank you to our dear Lord and the entire community for your gener- Speaking of the July 29 baby shower, Sweet said the pro-life groups came together osity and support.” to “shower these families with a love they will never forget … a baby shower.” “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock, and it will be open “This year we began with a live performance from the beautiful Gilbert family, to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who “Sing for America,” opening with the Star Spangled Banner as children waved their knocks it will be opened,” Sweet said, quoting Matthew 7:7-8. Mary’s Shelter, Reading and Cay Galgon Center, Bethlehem Mary’s Shelter and the Cay Galgon Center – now known as the Cay Galgon Life House – are residences for pregnant, Client Story from Mary’s Shelter homeless young women. Galgon, the Bethlehem site’s namesake, was a cham- pion for the unborn and those with learn- ‘I feel safe, and I feel loved’ ing disabilities. Christine Folk, executive director of The following is a client story from Mary’s Shelter (name changed). Mary’s Shelter, said the shelter opened in “My name is Maria. I am 21 years old and three months pregnant. When I 1995 and moved to its new building at 615 first found out, I was actually excited. I had been with my boyfriend for over Kenhorst Blvd., Reading in March 2018. a year and I thought this would cement the relationship. I thought he would be In 2018 it housed 41 expectant young excited. That was my dream world, then reality hit. He was not excited, and he women, their newborns and 28 toddlers; A baby who was helped by Mary’s wanted me to ‘take care of the problem.’ through Provide Pantry services (cloth- Shelter, Reading. (Lynn Rose Pho- “I said, ‘It’s a baby, not a problem,’ and the arguing began. I came home one ing, formula, diapers, etc.) helped over tography) day to find my things in the hall and the locks changed. 800 low-income families; and as site of “I called my family who said, ‘You’re an adult now, grow up and take care the Greater Berks Diaper Bank served 165 of it yourself.’ All I thought was ‘it’ is a baby. I stayed with a friend for a few low-income families, providing diapers for 455 children ages 2 and older. weeks but was asked to leave when I lost my job. I couldn’t contribute money Mary’s Shelter started YESS (Youth Empowerment Supportive Services) program anymore. Jan. 10, 2019, which provides emergency shelter housing to homeless and runaway “No one wanted to hear excuses about doctor’s appointments or morning youth ages 14 to 17. Mary’s Shelter offers Drop-in-Center services on Mondays and sickness, which lasted all day. They weren’t excuses, I felt exhausted and aw- Wednesdays. ful all the time. How could this be happening to me? Unemployed, homeless, The Cay Galgon Center, Bethlehem opened in 2012. In 2018 it housed 11 expectant pregnant and alone, I just cried all the time. I really wanted this baby, but…. young women, their newborns and five toddlers; and through Provide Pantry services “Then one day on the bus, a young girl and her baby got on and smiled at helped over 400 low-income families. me. The baby, 6 months old, was so cute. I just started to cry. The girl asked me Contact Mary’s Shelter at 610-603-8010, [email protected] or https://marys- what was wrong, and I blurted out everything between sobs. She smiled at me shelter.org/. Contact the Cay Galgon Life House at 610-867-9546, [email protected] or Please see SAFE page 14 }} https://www.caygalgonlifehouse.org/. 14 The A.D. Times Diocese April 18, 2019

then grabbed my hand and wrote the number on my palm saying, ‘this way you won’t lose it.’ As she got off the bus she yelled back, ‘Call them.’ I rode the bus for a whole Safe circuit, thinking, crying, smiling and staring at my palm. }}Continued from page 13 “I called Mary’s Shelter the next day, and the person who answered was so nice. I told my story (between sobs again) and she just listened and let me get through it. I got again and said, ‘I have just the place.’ an interview that afternoon. I do not know what my future holds, but for the first time “She told me she had lived at Mary’s Shelter and everything they did for her. She in a long time I feel safe, and I feel loved.”

Lifeline of Berks County Lifeline of Berks County, Inc. is a pregnancy center started by lay Catholics in 1972 to assist women facing an unplanned pregnancy. “In the beginning, women would go to homes in the city and county to provide pregnancy tests and peer support, along with material items that women needed to choose life for themselves and their children,” said Stephanie Giles, executive director of Lifeline and parishioner of Sacred Heart, West Reading. Father Stephan Isaac, assistant pastor of St. Ignatius Loyola, Sinking Spring, is a Lifeline board member. Each year, Lifeline serves approximately 600 women. In 2017, Lifeline provided material services 872 times to its clients and referrals to 511 of its clients for community services that Lifeline does not provide. Lifeline continues to serve women facing an unplanned pregnancy from its office at 612 Reading Ave., West Reading, PA 19611. “For 48 years, the Lifeline staff has provided free services thanks largely to the Catholic community in Berks County,” Giles said. Lifeline offers an array of services, all at no charge, including urine pregnancy tests with verification from a nurse so clients can get health insurance; and ultrasound confirmation of pregnancy for women who are considering abortion or who are at-risk of considering abortion due to life circumstances. There is options education where Lifeline is able to help the client see the risks of abortion (medical and emotional), as well as education about life-affirming alterna- tives to abortion, including adoption. The pantry at Lifeline of Berks County is filled with supplies for expectant Clients are able to find out what information they need to make the best decision mothers. (Photo courtesy of Stephanie Giles) for themselves and their babies, and they are given space to think about their values, hopes and dreams, and to be listened to. Clients are shown the support that is available “This allows us to assess a client’s sexual behavior and educate them about the in the community and at the center to parent their children. risks,” Giles said. “It also offers an opportunity to teach clients about the benefits of There is also one-on-one mentoring to assist the client in putting together a support chastity as a way of life that will prevent pregnancy and disease while simultaneously system before the baby is born. That often includes helping a client see her strengths providing time to improve relationships – romantic and all others – set goals, and and opportunities within her family and community. It can mean working on relation- make plans to achieve them.” ships with family members or the father of the baby, and learning skills like budgeting, “Sexual integrity education includes fertility education, not as a means of spacing creating nutritious meals, goal-setting and planning. births (we refer for that when needed) but to teach women how their bodies work and “We offer prayer and spiritual counseling to clients who desire it and help clients the impact of their reproductive health on their social, emotional, and spiritual health,” assess the current state of their faith life. More than half of our clients have no faith Giles said. life,” Giles said. “It also includes education and mentoring to improve relationships, seek true repro- Lifeline offers parenting education and classes, referrals to local medical provid- ductive health that will promote health and future fertility, and understand the risks of ers for care to increase healthy pregnancy outcomes, prenatal vitamins for mothers contraceptives and encourage the practice of chastity.” throughout their pregnancies and during breastfeeding, and testing for gonorrhea and Lifeline provides material services like food, formula, diapers, clothing, and other chlamydia with referral for treatment. baby furniture and accessories. For women who have had an abortion and feel that it has impacted their lives negatively and are seeking healing, it provides abortion recovery services. Client Story from Lifeline For those in the community who would like to volunteer, Lifeline has the following opportunities: processing donations (clean, sort and prepare) to get them from donor to client; development volunteers to join the banquet or golf committees and help raise funds to empower women to choose life; parish liaisons who can keep the brochures ‘She cried to see her child stocked at their churches, inform Lifeline of needs at their parish that Lifeline can fill, and help Lifeline with events at their church. moving and very much alive’ Also, event volunteers at the banquet, golf and baby bottle events; pantry volunteers to box up food for clients; layette volunteers to put together layettes for Lifeline’s Stephanie Giles, executive director of Lifeline and parishioner of Sacred expecting clients; church groups to work with Lifeline in putting together ongoing Heart, West Reading. shared the following client story from Lifeline. community support to help families get to know Jesus Christ while making changes in “Princess M walked into our office and requested an ultrasound. Debbie (a their lives; and church groups to provide gifts that show women how precious they are staff member) explained to her that an ultrasound was a medical procedure and in God’s eyes and to encourage them to choose life. that we would need to have a positive pregnancy test and talk about her situa- “As Catholics, we know that all lives are sacred and must be protected from con- tion and options first. Debbie took her back to her office to get information and ception to natural death. Lifeline is on the front line of that seamless garment, and we to listen to her story. know that hearts and minds must be changed for our culture to change,” Giles said. “Debbie found that Princess M was happy about the life inside her but not Contact Lifeline at 610-374-8545, [email protected] or www.lifelineof- happy about her current situation. She and the baby’s father had been together berks.org. for two years, but over the last year he had changed and become abusive to her. Debbie discussed future goals with Princess M and found that she wanted to have children in the future. Debbie and Princess M discussed the impact of the abortion decision on her reproductive health and Princess M didn’t want to risk future problems by having an abortion now. “In subsequent visits, Princess M voiced conflicting thoughts about her relationship with the baby’s father; she knew it was not a healthy one. He wanted her to give up her goal to own her own business, and he began separating her from her friends. “At the same time, her aunt who was a mentor to her was pressuring her to abort her baby so she could focus on her career. Princess M wanted to parent her baby, and Debbie became her initial support system. At 12 weeks, Princess M saw her little one again during an ultrasound visit, and she cried to see her child moving and very much alive. “Debbie and Princess M continued to meet and talk about healthy relationships. Debbie gave information to the baby’s father about fatherhood and the importance of his role in the baby’s life. Within a few months, he became excited to become a father. Debbie provided continued support and material services to Princess M. When Princess M gave birth to her son, she brought him to visit with Debbie. “Princess M has not yet achieved all of her goals, but her son has a father who is involved in his life and she works nights to save money for the store she wants to open. She will do it, too because she is working for a little prince who has brought her great joy.” Debbie Baker, director of client services at Lifeline of Berks County, Reading, teaches a parenting class. (Photo courtesy of Stephanie Giles) April 18, 2019 Diocese The A.D. Times 15 You Are Not Alone (YANA) You Are Not Alone Minis- try is available in the Diocese of Allentown to support those of any faith who are facing a poor prenatal diagnosis, which carries with it feelings of fear and uncertainty. Some parents debate whether to carry to term, knowing their child will face severe medical challenges. According to Sister Janice Marie Johnson, a of Columbus councils. Information was also placed Sister of Mercy and director of the diocesan Office in bulletin inserts, and cards and posters were placed for Ministry with Persons with Disabilities, five in parishes. couples and two individuals from various parts of In addition, volunteers have made blankets and the Diocese have been trained as peer ministers, booties to give to parents for their little angels to a network of concerned parents and professionals wear, no matter how long they are here. who have experienced or worked closely with is- Information is also available in Spanish. sues surrounding poor prenatal diagnosis. “Some parents debate whether to carry to term, The free service of practical guidelines and knowing their child will possibly face severe medical compassionate care focuses on meeting the needs challenges,” Sister Janice said. of expectant parents as they seek to honor the life “The free service of practical guidelines and com- of their baby, no matter how frail or how brief that passionate care focuses on meeting the needs of ex- life may be. pectant parents as they seek to honor the life of their The ministry provides resource materials, assis- baby, no matter how frail or how brief that life may tance with birth plans, and referrals to other com- be,” said Sister Janice. munity-based services and support groups. “One expectant mother, whose baby’s early pre- To expectant parents the ministry offers unique natal diagnosis was Down syndrome, actually did not insight and sensitivity regarding such difficult is- give birth to a baby with this syndrome. Her baby sues as mourning the loss of the anticipated baby, girl’s original diagnosis was incorrect. Imagine if the maintain hope when a prognosis is poor, medical mother had not carried this gift of life to term.” decision making during pregnancy and beyond, YANA is under the auspices of the Diocesan Sec- still birth, and neonatal critical care. retariat for Catholic Life and Evangelization. Sister Janice said information on the ministry For support contact Sister Janice, 610-289-8900 has been distributed to hospital chaplains and ma- ext. 245, [email protected] Sister Janice holds baby Savannah, whose family cel- ternal fetal medicine divisions of hospitals through- tion is also available at www.allentowndiocese.org/ ebrated her life with the help of the You Are Not Alone out the Diocese, ob-gyn offices, college campus pwd. Ministry. (File photo) ministers, high schools, retreat centers and Knights Special Learning Centers Sister Janice said the three special learning centers in the Diocese are another way lington; Mercy School for Special Learning, Allentown; and St. Joseph Center for the Diocese supports children after they have been given life. Special Learning, Shillington. The Diocese offers three special learning centers designed for students with in- For more information on registration and admission, call the Office of Education, tellectual, developmental or learning disabilities that require more than the support 610-866-0581. available in the traditional classroom: John Paul II Center for Special Learning, Shil- Services Planned for Divine Mercy Sunday The first Sunday after Easter, this year vine Mercy pamphlets available in parish April 28, the Feast of Divine Mercy will office; 610-678-3767, www.stignatius- be celebrated throughout the Diocese. reading.org. Pope John Paul II established this feast St. Jane Frances de Chantal, 4049 at the canonization of St. Faustina April Hartley Ave., Easton – Divine Mercy 30, 2000, and the official decree from Sunday, Mass noon; Eucharistic adora- the Sacred Congregation of Divine Wor- tion and confessions 1 p.m.; Divine Mer- ship and the Discipline of the Sacraments cy Chaplet sung by St. Jane Choir 3 p.m., came just days later on May 5, 2000. followed by Eucharistic Procession and Not only did he establish this Feast of closing with Benediction; Divine Mercy Divine Mercy, but he died on the vigil of Chaplet booklets will be available in the that feast, just five years later on April 2, gathering space; easy access for the dis- 2005. abled; confessions also Saturday, April The Feast of Divine Mercy is preceded 27, 3:45-4:45 p.m., before 5 p.m. Mass; by participation in a Novena of Chaplets 610-253-3553, www.stjanesofeastonpa. to the Divine Mercy. For more informa- com. tion, visit website www.divinemercysun- St. Joseph the Worker, 1879 Apple- day.com. wood Road, Orefield – 2:30 p.m., 610- Locations in the Diocese that have an- 395-2876, www.stjw.org. nounced Divine Mercy Sunday services St. Matthew the Evangelist, 139 are below. Spruce St., Minersville – Divine Mer- Holy Rosary, 237 Franklin St., cy Devotions, 3 p.m., Exposition of the Reading – 3 p.m., Mass and Chaplet of Blessed Sacrament, Scripture Service, Divine Mercy (a plenary indulgence may Sung Chaplet of the Divine Mercy, Bene- be obtained), Mass fulfills Sunday obli- diction; confessions begin 2 p.m.; Monsi- gation, refreshments after Mass in hall, gnor William Handges, pastor emeritus, novena for the Divine Mercy begins on St. Peter, Coplay, will be guest confessor, Good Friday, novena booklets can be ob- homilist and presider; first class relic of tained at the parish, 610-373-5579. St. Faustina will be offered for veneration St. Ignatius Loyola, 2810 St. Albans at conclusion of services; 570-544-2211, Drive, Sinking Spring – Divine Mercy www.stmatthewtheevangelistparish.org. Sunday Devotion, Eucharistic Adoration SS. Peter and Paul, 260 N. Third 2 p.m., talk by Father Stephan Isaac 2:30 St., Lehighton – Divine Mercy Sunday p.m., Divine Mercy Chaplet 3 p.m.; nove- Celebration, church opens 2 p.m., time na prayer and chaplet will begin publicly for private prayer, confessions available; in the church April 19 and end Saturday, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, April 27; participants may start novena 2:30 p.m.; readings from the diary of St. let, Benediction, followed by light re- www.peterandpaulchurch.com. and chaplet on their own April 19-21; Di- Faustina, singing of Divine Mercy Chap- freshments in parish hall, 610-377-3690, 16 The A.D. Times Diocese April 18, 2019 Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat for Anyone Seeking Healing After Abortion

Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat, an intimate spiritual journey for anyone seeking healing after abortion, will be the weekend of June 21-23. In a safe, supportive, nonjudgmental environment, you can focus on this painful time in your life and enter into the process of healing. Through Scripture readings, guided meditations, and activities flowing from the meditations, you can experience God’s compassion and forgiveness. Deadline for registration is Thursday, June 13. For registration information, contact Sister Meg Cole at 1-866-3 RACHEL (toll free), 610-332-0442 ext. 2019 or [email protected]. For information about the retreat experience, visit the national website, www.rachelsvineyard.org. April 18, 2019 Diocese The A.D. Times 17 Cardinal Ribat Brings Lenten Message and Gratitude to Holy Family By TARA CONNOLLY “Thank you to all of you in the Unit- Staff writer ed States. You have been very generous supporters in the work of MSC priests in “We must pray for true repentance, their mission,” said Cardinal Ribat. changes of minds and changes of heart Father Tobias said Cardinal Ribat’s so Lent will be a fruitful blessing in the visit was in conjunction with his role as Church,” said Cardinal John Ribat, arch- a member of the Dicastery for Promot- bishop of Port Moresby, Papua New ing Integral Human Development. The Guinea, March 24 at Holy Family, Naza- dicastery promotes the values of justice, reth. peace and the care of creation in accor- Cardinal Ribat, the first member of the dance with the Gospel message. Missionaries of the Sacred Heart of Jesus “His visit shows the universality of the to be named a cardinal, celebrated Mass Church. And this celebration shows the at the parish, which has been served by beauty of the Holy Family community,” MSC priests for most of its history. he said. Bishop of Allentown Alfred Schlert During Cardinal Ribat’s pastoral visit, was the principal concelebrant. Concele- he also celebrated Mass and met with brants were Father Joseph Tobias, pastor; guests and MSC sisters March 25 at the Father Richard Kennedy, USA Provincial MSC Motherhouse, Reading. Superior of MSC, Aurora, Illinois; and Cardinal John Ribat, archbishop of Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, second The MSC order of men founded the visiting priests. from left, celebrates Mass at Holy Family, Nazareth. Concelebrants are, from Missionary Sisters of the Most Sacred Cardinal Ribat, who was named a car- left: Father Richard Kennedy, USA Provincial Superior of the Missionaries of Heart of Jesus who established their dinal of Papua New Guinea in 2016 by the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Aurora, Illinois; Bishop of Allentown Alfred Schlert; Motherhouse in Reading in 1908. It is the Pope Francis, is under age 80 and eligible Father Joseph Tobias, pastor; and Father Ben Fleming, Port Moresby Diocese headquarters for the United States Prov- to vote in papal conclaves. He told the vicar general. (Photos by John Simitz) ince of MSC, which includes Mexico. faithful how he received the news of his The celebration observed the Feast of new appointment. imity and said he was honored to be part tributions have brought aid to the region, the Annunciation and Foundation Day for After conferring the sacrament of of a strongly connected global church. helped build schools and health care cen- the MSC Sisters who celebrated its 119th confirmation at a local parish, he said he With an estimated two million Catho- ters, and provided seminarian education anniversary of the order’s founding in returned home to rest, only to get a call lics in Papua New Guinea, the country is for future priests. Germany. from a nuncio telling him he was on his divided into 19 dioceses and four arch- way to see him. dioceses. Cardinal Ribat oversees more “I immediately started to wonder what than 200,000 Catholics facing threats I did wrong,” said Cardinal Ribat. from rising sea levels and undersea min- The nuncio and then-Bishop Ribat ing for valuable metals. discussed diocesan business before he In his homily, Cardinal Ribat said learned Pope Francis had named him one climate change has affected Papua New of 17 new cardinals. Guinea and noted the Carteret Islands “I was shocked. I was silent. I didn’t have been facing rising sea levels for know what to say. This was never in my more than two decades and decreasing mind,” he said. their size. “I also thought, if it’s God’s will – “Our survival and existence is in dan- he will give me strength,” said Cardinal ger,” he told the faithful. Ribat. Thanking the faithful and the MSC He told the faithful that during the community for supporting the Archdio- era of the Early Church, parish priests in cese of Port Moresby, he said their con- Rome used to elect the pope due to prox-

Cardinal Ribat preaches the homily at Holy Family during his pastoral visit to the United States.

Above, children from the religious education class welcome Cardinal Ribat to Holy Family. Right, Cardinal Ribat, right, meets with Father Kennedy, left, and Bishop Schlert during his visit to Holy Family.

Padre Pio Centre to Present Play About St. Faustina The National Centre for Padre Pio in A parallel modern story within the Barto will present “Faustina: Messenger drama offers audiences a compelling per- of Divine Mercy,” a one-woman play by sonal connection to the moral issues of acclaimed producer Leonardo Defilippis our times. Audiences are calling the pro- of St. Luke Productions, Friday, May 3 duction a “wake-up call.” at 7 p.m. The play runs 90 minutes, and is suit- In “Faustina: Messenger of Divine able for ages 13 and up. Mercy” audiences experience firsthand Tickets – general admission $15, chil- the spirit and life of Polish mystic St. dren 14 and under $10 – are available on Faustina, whose personal encounters with the website, www.PadrePio.org, Face- Jesus have inspired a world-wide devo- book page, www.Facebook.com/PadrePi- tion to Christ’s Divine Mercy. oInc and in the gift shop. 18 The A.D. Times Diocese April 18, 2019

‘Faith and Spirits’ to Discuss St. Ignatius Loyola Evening with Cris Carter Father Christopher Walsh, pastor of St. fortable setting. It is offered at various Raymond of Penafort, Philadelphia, will locations throughout the Diocese with a on Addictions explore the “Spirituality of St. Ignatius variety of engaging speakers and intrigu- “DeSales Cares: An Evening with Hall Carter and Joe Ashdale of Ambrosia Loyola” at the next “Faith and Spirits.’’ ing topics. of Fame wide receiver Cris Carter on Ad- Treatment Center will provide support “St. Ignatius Loyola and the Discern- All adults are welcome. There is no dictions and Support,” will be Thursday, and information to help combat this epi- ment of Spirits” will be Monday, May charge for attending and no registration April 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. at DeSales demic that affects us all. 6 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Braveheart is required. There will be menus avail- University, Center Valley, in the Trexler/ College and high school students, uni- Highland Pub, 430 Main St., Hellertown. able for ordering food and drink at your Hurd Room. versity staff, friends and family are wel- Who is St. Ignatius Loyola? What is expense. Carter is a former wide receiver for the come to attend. discernment, and how do we know if we For questions or more information, Philadelphia Eagles (1987-89), the Min- For immediate help, reach out to Mi- are doing it correctly? These questions visit www.allentowndiocese.org/faith- nesota Vikings (1990-2001) and the Mi- chael Ritchie at michael.ritchie@desales. and more will be discussed. and-spirits or contact the Office of Adult ami Dolphins (2002) football teams. edu or 888-391-3265. “Faith and Spirits” was created by the Formation by email adultformation@al- Diocesan Office of Adult Formation to lentowndiocese.org or call 610-289-8900 provide a forum for all adult Catholics ext. 2021. to learn more about their faith in a com- Course on ‘The Church’ The Institute for Catechesis and For- This course will provide a brief overview mation is offering the following course. of the origins of the Church; her identity ICF courses are meant for any adult as one, holy Catholic and apostolic; and Catholic looking to grow deeper and what it means to be “the Body of Christ” learn more about the faith. There are no on earth. prerequisites for these courses. Cost is This course will be presented by $30. Register at www.allentowndiocese. Cassie Boccardi and is scheduled from org/icf. 7 to 9 p.m. on Thursdays, May 2, 9, 16 and 23 at St. Francis Center for Renewal, ICF 106 - The Church Bethlehem. The Church is the place of encounter Cost: $30. Register at www.allen- between God and his people on earth. towndiocese.org/icf Hesburgh Lecture Rescheduled for April 29 The annual Hesburgh Lecture at De- America. He won the University of Vir- Sales University, Center Valley, post- ginia’s Alumni Distinguished Professor poned from Feb. 20, has been resched- Award in 1999; Notre Dame’s Edmund uled for Monday, April 29 at 7 p.m. in the P. Joyce, C.S.C., Award for Excellence in University Center. Undergraduate Teaching in 2008; and the Speaker will be Dr. Thomas Noble, Charles Sheedy, C.S.C., Award for Excel- professor emeritus of history and fellow lence in Teaching in the College of Arts of the Nanovic Institute for European and Letters in 2011. Studies at Notre University, Indiana. Inspired by the late Father Hesburgh’s Topic for the lecture will be “Faith example of lifelong learning, the Hes- Taking Shape: Early Christianity and the burgh Lecture Series has brought uni- Vespers for Healing Arts.” versity faculty to Notre Dame clubs and Between 300 and 1000 B.C., Christian their local communities since 1986. The On Monday, April 29 at 6:30 p.m. hem. theologians developed a vocabulary and lectures, presented by mostly tenured fac- there will be Vespers for Healing for After vespers there will be a Holy conceptual framework for talking about ulty, showcase the depth and breadth of those who have experienced trauma. Hour of prayer before the Blessed Sacra- God. In those same centuries, as Chris- Notre Dame’s academic expertise in re- All are invited to join in an evening of ment and the opportunity for confession. tian art developed and spread, Christians search and teaching through an accessible prayer with Bishop of Allentown Alfred The evening will conclude with Benedic- also learned how to talk about art. There format suitable for a general audience. Schlert as presider and homilist at Holy tion at 8 p.m. are surprises and ironies in these two par- The Hesburgh Lecture Series furthers Ghost Church, 417 Carlton Ave., Bethle- allel developments. the mission of the Alumni Association to Noble earned his bachelor of arts de- provide meaningful continuing education gree at Ohio University, and his master opportunities to Notre Dame alumni and of arts and doctorate degrees at Michigan friends. Vísperas de Sanación State. The lecture is free and open to the El lunes 29 de abril a las 6:30 p.m. iglesia del Holy Ghost, 417 Carlton Ave., For 41 years he taught classical and public. No tickets are required. habrá vísperas de sanación para aquellos Bethlehem. medieval history at Texas Tech, the Uni- For more information, contact Lore que han experimentado trauma. Después de las vísperas, habrá una versity of Virginia and at Notre Dame. He McFadden at the Salesian Center for Todos están invitados a unirse en hora Santa de oración ante el Santísimo has published and lectured widely on both Faith and Culture, 610-282-1100 ext. oración con el muy Reverendo Alfred A. Sacramento y la oportunidad de confe- Europe and the Mediterranean world. 1244 or [email protected], or Schlert como presider y homilista en la siónes. La noche concluirá con la Ben- He is author or editor of 12 books and visit website www.desales.edu/salesian. dición a las 8 p.m. a fellow of the Medieval Academy of April 18, 2019 Diocese The A.D. Times 19 Bishop’s Annual Appeal Kicks Off in Lehigh County By TAMI QUIGLEY Left, Deacon Michael Staff writer Laroche speaks during the Bishop’s Annual Ap- “There’s no better peal (BAA) kickoff in Le- way to start our efforts high County April 3 at St. with the Bishop’s An- Elizabeth of Hungary, nual Appeal (BAA) Whitehall. (Photos by than with the great- John Simitz) est prayer of all – the Holy Sacrifice of the Right, Rod Derstine of- Mass,” said Bishop fers his presentation Alfred Schlert, main during the kickoff recep- celebrant and hom- tion. ilist of an evening Mass April 3 at St. Below, Bishop Alfred Elizabeth of Hungary, Schlert, center, cel- Whitehall that kicked ebrates the Mass with, off the 2019 BAA in from left, Msgr. Ed- Lehigh County. ward Coyle, Monsignor The Diocese of John Martin, Monsignor Allentown and BAA Thomas Hoban, Mon- Trust Advisory Board signor David James, hosted the evening Father John Pendzick, that launched this Monsignor Daniel Ye- year’s appeal, “Be- nushosky, Monsignor cause We Are Catho- Francis Schoenauer, lic,” which has a goal Father John Gibbons of $4.6 million to and Monsignor Gerald help those in need. Gobitas. The liturgy was followed by a reception in the parish hall, which included presentations by two BAA Trust Advisors: Deacon Michael Laroche, who serves Holy Trinity, White- hall; and Ron Derstine, parishioner of St. Joseph, Limeport for over 25 years. The appeal always begins after Easter. Principal concelebrants of the liturgy were Father John Pendzick, pastor of St. Elizabeth of Hungary; and Monsignor Daniel Yenushosky, pastor of Holy Trin- ity. Also concelebrating were other priests of the Lehigh Deanery: Monsignor Ed- ward Coyle, pastor of St. Ann, Emmaus; Father John Gibbons, pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Concep- tion BVM, Al- lentown; Mon- signor Gerald “As the song Gobitas, pastor says, ‘they of St. John the will know we Baptist, White- such endearing terms.” He referred to the “As we come together as a Roman people are not giving to the Church, but are Christians hall; Monsignor evening’s Gospel, John 5:17-30, when Catholic family of faith, we’re reminded said that’s not true. by our love.’” Thomas Hoban, the Jews wanted to kill Jesus even more that’s what binds us, and enlivens our The event included a screening of the in residence because he called God his own father – faith and works.” BAA video. at St. John the Jesus said he can do nothing without his The Bishop thanked everyone for their In 2018, BAA supported commu- Baptist; Monsi- Father. efforts with BAA, and asked them, in this nity services with $2,153,000, education gnor David James, Diocesan vicar gen- “As we make up our Catholic commu- season of Lent, if there is anything keep- $846,000, vocations $508,000, parish life eral; Monsignor John Martin, pastor of nities of families, we work in concert with ing them from living in concert with the $423,000, parish sharing $370,000 and St. Peter, Coplay; and Monsignor Francis the Father, Son and Holy Spirit,” Bishop Holy Trinity. administration $300,000. Schoenauer, pastor of the Cathedral of St. Schlert said. “We believe our faith and “Together we can do so much.” Catharine of Siena, Allentown. Church is guided by the Holy Trinity. As the evening segued into the recep- Rod Derstine In his homily, Bishop Schlert said “Just like Jesus, we can do nothing tion, Father Pendzick led those gathered As Derstine addressed the group Catholics, and all Christians, grew up without the Father. And without the co- in a prayer and Paul Acampora, secretary as it noshed on tasty offerings, he said thinking of God as the Father, but “the operation of each other, it’s hard to get of the Diocesan Secretariat for Steward- the BAA Board of Trust Advisors was Jewish people didn’t think of him in things done. ship and Development, offered words of formed in 2012, and all gifts are received welcome. Acampora said news stories say that Please see APPEAL page 20 }}

Enjoying the evening are, from left, Elizabeth and Joe Bechtel, parishioners of Assumption BVM, Slatington; and Rosemarie and Joe Rieker, parishioners Faithful of the Lehigh Deanery attend the evening liturgy. of Annunciation BVM (St. Mary’s), Catasaqua. 20 The A.D. Times Diocese April 18, 2019

Bishop Schlert refer- enced the Diocesan mis- Appeal sion statement, “A Roman }}Continued from page 19 Catholic family of faith, centered in the Holy Eucha- rist, faithful to the Church’s and administered by the trust advisors. teaching, bringing the light Derstine focused on the protection and segregation of of Christ to each other and trust assets, explaining they are only for the appeal fund. to our community.” The 12-member board of volunteer community lead- “We approach services ers and parishioners from across the Diocese of Allen- and life as Catholics with town was appointed by the Bishop. There is always at different views sometimes, least one representative of every county in the Diocese. and we’re proud of that,” Derstine said he and Deacon Laroche are representa- Bishop Schlert said. “Be- tives of Lehigh County. “We are the spokespeople of the cause we’re Catholic we appeal to the community.” do great things with God’s blessing and guidance. Deacon Laroche Anyone with a need can “We give to the appeal because we are Catholic. come to us and be served. That’s what we do as followers of Christ,” Deacon La- Because we’re Catholic we The Spear family, parishioners of the Cathedral of St. Catharine of Siena, Al- roche said. “Because Catholics feed the hungry, we’ve do God’s work day in and lentown, enjoy the evening, clockwise from left, Bernadette, Phoebe, Adelaide, served 42,000 people in soup kitchens and pantries.” day out. Emily, Theodore, Veronica, Teresa, Michael holding Rosemary and Leo with BAA, he said, provides such things as housing ser- “I thank you and God his “best smile” on. vices, helps seniors, provides counseling, and aids faith bless you.” development through the Secretariat for Catholic Life to do good. and Evangelization, including ministry to youth and The Spear Family “We are involved with the BAA out of love and grati- young adults. It also helps the Diocese’s three special The evening was a real family affair for Mike and tude. We see donating to the BAA as an opportunity to learning centers, including Mercy School for Special Emily Spear, parishioners of the Cathedral, who attend- show our gratitude to God for everything he has given Learning, Allentown. ed with their eight children, from 13 years to 12 weeks us.” Deacon Laroche said BAA also helps seminarians, old: Theodore, Bernadette, Adelaide, Teresa, Veronica, noting there are nine men in Lehigh County preparing Phoebe, Leo and Rosemary. to be priests. Emily Spear noted St. Adelaide is the patron of large “If a parish exceeds its goal, 50 percent of that money families. is returned to the parish,” Deacon Laroche said. In BAA, “It was wonderful to receive an invitation to this “only 6 percent of the money is used for administrative Mass, it’s always special to spend time with Jesus in the expenses – well below the national average.” Eucharist,” Emily Spear said. “This one was even more “Thank you for coming tonight as we begin what we special with the Bishop.” hope is another wonderful year,” Deacon Laroche said. “We’re excited to give back to the community at “As the song says, ‘they will know we are Christians large,” Emily Spear said of BAA, as her husband added, by our love.’” “Catholic Charities is not just for the Catholic Church.” The Spears are involved in volunteering at a soup kitchen Bishop Schlert and nursing home, noting all these things are important. As Bishop Schlert addressed the gathering, he noted, “Giving back to the community is not important in “Sometimes we lose sight of all that is done every day.” some abstract sense, but because Jesus is present in ev- Humbly, Bishop Schlert made clear he doesn’t like ery human individual, so we are excited to give back to the focus on “bishop” in the appeal. “It’s the Catholic the community, to Jesus in everyone around us, and as Community Appeal. It’s all the people who do the work Mike said, that means that Catholic Charities is not just in the Diocese, and the people who are served,” he said. about Catholics,” Emily Spear said. Bishop Schlert noted even the BAA logo is smaller “One of our children said it was an extra special on this year’s BAA materials, with the focus on “Be- Communion today because there were nine priests,” cause We Are Catholic.” Mike Spear said. The Rodriguez family, parishioners of St. Paul, Al- ‘“Because We’re Catholic’ is the real key to the ap- “Tonight is joyful,” Emily Spear added. “It is great lentown, enjoy the evening, from left, Alfred, Sam- peal.” to be with so many people who want to work together uel, Seria, Matthew and Raysa.

Enjoying the celebratory evening are, from left, Deacon Christopher and Cathy Kinsella of St. Mary Ann and Bob Kulhamer and Helen Wolfer, pa- Deacon Carl and Peg Readinger of St. Joseph the Thomas, More, Allentown celebrate the kickoff. rishioners of St. Elizabeth of Hungary. Worker, Orefield enjoy celebrating the kickoff.

Death St. Benedict, Mohnton to Host Sacred Relics St. Benedict Church, 2020 Chestnut St. Teresa of Calcutta, Venerable Fulton Religious Sister Hill Road, Mohnton will host a special Sheen, Servant of God Father Walter Cis- Sister Margaret Kelly, 92, a member associate director of campus ministry. exposition of sacred relics Saturday, May zek and many others. of the Sisters of Mercy (RSM) since Her extraordinary talent on the harp was 4 from 3 to 7 p.m. and Sunday, May 5 Admission is free, but donations will 1944, died April 14 at McAuley Convent. shared at many community celebrations. from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. be accepted to forward to Father Jason Sister Margaret taught in elementary Among her survivors is her cousin, More than 100 holy objects will be on Kuzlinski, who protects and cares for and high schools for 25 years in the Arch- Sister of Mercy Joanne Whitaker. display in the Family Life Center. these relics at Holy Martyrs Catholic diocese of Philadelphia and the Diocese Viewing will be Wednesday, April 24 Included will be pieces of the True Church in the Archdiocese of Philadel- of Allentown, including four years at St. at 10 a.m. at Convent of Mercy, Merion, Cross of our Lord, relics of St. John the phia. John Baptist de la Salle, Shillington and followed by Mass of Christian Burial at Baptist, St. Anthony of Padua, St. John All are invited to attend. For more in- one year at Sacred Heart School, Nesque- 11 a.m. and burial in the convent cem- Neumann, St. Katherine Drexel, St. formation, contact the parish office, 610- honing. etery. Therese, St. John of the Cross, St. Da- 856-1006 or Secretary@churchofsaint- She also served as a principal and an mian of Molokai, St. Pope John Paul II, benedict.org. April 18, 2019 Diocese The A.D. Times 21

ton, 6-9 p.m., breakfast and lunch provided, register the Trenches,” Jesuit Center for Spiritual Growth, Thursday, Aug. 22 [email protected]; also Saturday, May 4, 8 a.m.-3:30 Wernersville, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., www.jesuitcenter.org/ Notre Dame of Bethlehem, 55+ to Atlantic City Calendar p.m. PriestsForever. Cruise and Casino, $70, 610-866-0360. Saturday, May 4 Saturday, May 11 Thursday, Oct. 10 Editor’s note: E-mail, fax or mail Church- Exposition of Sacred Relics, St. Benedict, “Creating Art and Beauty,” Salesian Center, Notre Dame of Bethlehem, 55+ to “Streisand/ affiliated items for the Calendar page (Calendar, Mohnton, Family Life Center, 3-7 p.m., also Sun- DeSales University, Center Valley, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Sinatra,” Penn’s Peak, Jim Thorpe, 610-866-0360. Retreats, Socials, Festivals, Bazaars, Trips) to: day, May 5, 9 a.m-1 p.m., 610-856-1006 or secre- free, register www.desales.edu/salesian. email, [email protected]; fax, 610- [email protected]. “Spiritual Spa Day: Spring Day of Prayer,” Je- Previously announced 439-7694; The A.D. Times, P.O. Box F, Allentown, Oldies Dance, St. Mary, Hamburg, Ave Maria suit Center for Spiritual Growth, Wernersville, 10 PA 18105-1538. Hall, 6:30-9:30 p.m., tickets $10, at door $12, no a.m.-4 p.m., www.jesuitcenter.org/Spiritual-Spa- Wednesday, April 24 Items must be received by Thursday of the BYOB/BYOF, 610-562-7657, www.stmaryham- Day. St. Joseph, Coopersburg, Prime Time to “Take week before publication. Please type or print. burg.org. Me Away,” Sherlock Holmes musical mystery, Please notify The A.D. Times if bingos and other Monday, May 13 – Tuesday, May 21 Hunterdon Hills Dinner Playhouse, $98, 610-797- regularly listed events are cancelled for the sum- Sunday, May 5 “8-Day Directed Retreat,” Jesuit Center for 6240. mer or other holiday periods, and again when they Spaghetti Dinner, St. Patrick, Pottsville, par- Spiritual Growth, Wernersville, www.jesuitcenter. resume. Please do not send items again after they ish center, 11:30 am.-2:30 p.m., adults $8, children org/directedretreats_bylength. Thursday, April 25 are published. $3.50, 570-622-1802. Notre Dame of Bethlehem to Murder Mystery For more information, e-mail adtimes@allen- “No Phones in Medjugorje,” documentary, BLD Friday, May 31 – Sunday, June 2 Dinner Theatre, Mount Hope Estate and Winery, towndiocese.org or call 610-871-5200, ext. 2264. Charismatic Group and Marian Prayer Group, at St. “Weekend Directed Retreat,” Jesuit Center for Manheim, $84, 610-866-0360. Jane Frances de Chantal, Easton, Monsignor Gobi- Spiritual Growth, Wernersville, www.jesuitcenter. Good Friday, April 19 tas room, 1 p.m., begins with light lunch, dessert org/directedretreats_bylength. Sunday, April 28 Collection for Shrines of Our Faith in the Holy and discussion follows, reservations required, free Holy Trinity, Whitehall, Seniors in Action to Land. will donations. 267-261-2122. Monday, June 17 – Sunday, June 23 Phillies game, $68, 610-262-6058. Berks/Reading March for Life, Berks Catholic 5-Day Directed Retreat, www.jesuitcenter.org/ Tuesday, April 23 High School, Reading, speakers 2 p.m., march 3 directedretreats_bylength. Thursday, May 2 Serra Club of Bethlehem Dinner Meeting, p.m., baby items requested for donation. St. Thomas More, Allentown to Philadelphia Monocacy Manor, 6 p.m., speaker Father Mark May Crowning, St. Anthony of Padua, Easton, Sunday, June 23 – Thursday, June 27 Art Museum, $115, 484-951-0440. Searles. 6:30 p.m., living rosary, crowning of Mary and no- “Rooted in the Graces of the Exercises,” www. vena prayers to Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, jesuitcenter.org/IgnatianLeadershipforMission. Tuesday, May 7 Wednesday, April 24 followed by refreshments in school hall, 610-253- St. Ann, Emmaus, Prime Timers to “The Ulti- We Are Remembered Ministry Easter Mass, St. 7188. mate Johnny Cash Tribute,” Penn’s Peak, Jim Thor- John the Baptist, Allentown, 7 p.m., register name pe, $85, 610-530-8186. of loved one by Wednesday, April 17, see page 7 Friday, May 10 Festivals/Bazaars for details. Diocesan Homeschool Mass, Cathedral of St. Wednesday, May 8 “The Gospel of John,” Bible study group begins, Catharine of Siena, Allentown, 10:30 a.m., cele- Sunday, April 28 St. Thomas More, Allentown, Prime Time to St. Paul, Allentown, rectory basement, Wednesday brated by Bishop Alfred Schlert, reception follows, “MSC Fest: Oktoberfest in April,” Missionary Hollywood Casino, Grantville, $25, 610-791-1758. evenings 6:30-8 p.m., join anytime, 610-797-9733, 610-437-3491. Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, at Crowne [email protected]. Plaza Reading, 1741 Paper Mill Road, 2-6 p.m., Thursday, May 9 “The Gospel of John,” Bible study group begins, Saturday, May 11 sponsorships and reservations www.mscreading. Queenship of Mary, Northampton, Cenacle to Assumption BVM, Bethlehem, Finnegan Room, May Days Dance, St. John the Baptist, Allen- org, 610-929-2802, [email protected]. “Jesus,” Sight and Sound Theater, Lancaster, $92, Wednesday mornings 10-11:30 a.m., join anytime, town, social hall, 7-10 p.m., $5, BYOB, 610-432- 610-262-1663 or 610-262-2838. 610-867-7424 ext. 12, [email protected]. 0034 or 610-432-3505. Bereavement Support Group, St. Benedict, Monday, May 13 – Friday, May 17 Mohnton, Family Life Center, 6:30-8 p.m., 610- Thursday, May 16 St. Matthew the Evangelist, Minersville, Travel- 775-7782 or 610-856-1006, Wednesdays through Financial and Estate Planning for Women, De- Socials ers to Cape Cod and Boston, Massachusetts, $659, May 22. Sales University, Center Valley, University Center, 570-544-5231, 570-628-5413. 6-8 p.m., reservations 610-871-5200 ext. 2244 or Sundays Thursday, April 25 [email protected]. Bingo, St. Joseph, Summit Hill, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 14 “DeSales Cares: An Evening with Hall of Fame Bingo, Immaculate Conception School, Pen Ar- St. Thomas More, Allentown, Women’s Guild WR Cris Carter on Addictions and Support,” De- Saturday, May 18 gyl, 1 p.m., doors open 11 a.m., 610-863-4816. to National Shrine of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Sales University, Center Valley, Trexler/Hurd Garage Sale, Holy Ghost, Bethlehem, parish ga- Middletown, New York, $32, 484-707-7531. Room, 6-8 p.m.; for college and high school stu- rage on side of school building, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., rain Third Sundays dents, university staff, friends and family; for im- date Saturday, May 25. Bingo, Most Blessed Sacrament, Bally, 12:30 Saturday, May 18 mediate help, reach out to michael.ritchie@desales. p.m., doors open 11 a.m. St. Thomas More, Allentown to New York City edu or 888-391-3265. Sunday, May 19 Ballet: Balanchine, $114; Broadway: “Kiss Me “Desire,” concert, Roxy Theater, Northampton, Thursdays Kate” $168 or “Tootsie” $188; 484-951-0440. Friday, April 26 1:30-3:30 p.m., $10, sponsored by Knights of Co- Bingo, St. Joseph, Summit Hill, 6:30 p.m. Catholic Scout Activity Weekend, Camp Trex- lumbus 14464 of Sacred Heart, Bath, tickets at door Tuesday, May 21 – Friday, May 24 ler Settlers Camp, Kunkletown, all Catholic Scouts $10, information 610-837-1702. Thursday, April 25; Wednesday, May 15 St. Joseph the Worker, Orefield to Thousand welcome, through Sunday, www.adccos.org/bsr. Bingo, Knights of Columbus Council 4397, Islands, $559, [email protected], 610-392- htm. Monday, May 20 Family Center, St. Thomas More, Allentown, 6 2957. Retrouvaille Weekend, for couples to rediscover “Seek Always the Light of Christ,” discussion p.m., doors open 5:30 p.m. the love in their marriage, Family Life Center, Mal- on effects of pornography, Lumen Christi Com- Tuesday, May 28 – Wednesday, May 29 vern, www.HelpOurMarriage.org, 215-766-3944, mission, at St. Francis of Assisi, Allentown, church Saturday, April 27 – Sunday, April 28 St. Thomas More, Allentown, Prime Time to 800-470-2230, all inquiries strictly confidential. hall, 7 p.m., adults only, 610-433-6102 or www.st- Basket Raffle/Tricky Tray, Our Lady of Mercy, Dover Downs, Delaware, 610-791-1758. Interfaith Prayer Service and Fellowship, Alver- francisallentown.org. Easton, Women’s Guild, Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., nia University, Physical Education Center, 3 p.m., Sunday 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m., 610-252-7381. Wednesday, June 12 Alvernia President Tom Flynn shares his gratitude St. Thomas More, Allentown, Prime Time to for the community, www.alvernia.edu. Sundays, April 28; May 19; June 2, 23; Aug. 4, Mohegan Sun, Wilkes-Barre, $25, 610-791-1758. Rummage Sale, Sacred Heart, Bethlehem, Fa- 18; Sept. 8, 22; Oct. 6, 20; Nov. 3, 17; Dec. 8 ther King Hall, 1817 First St., 2-7 p.m., also Satur- Lenten Events Bingo, Knights of Columbus Council 618, St. Thursday, June 13 day, April 27, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Stephen Hall, Shenandoah, 2 p.m., doors open St. Elizabeth of Hungary, Whitehall, Golden Through end of Lent, Thursday, April 18 noon, 570-590-3270 or 570-590-1188. Agers to “Mama Mia,” Fulton Theatre, Lancaster, Saturday, April 27 “Lent 2019: A Time of Enlightenment and $99, 484-264-7723. Yard Sale, Men’s Club, St. Ambrose, Schuylkill Reconnecting,” free online noncredit course for Saturday, May 11 Notre Dame of Bethlehem to Mohegan Sun Ca- Haven, parish center, 7 a.m. spiritual enrichment, offered by Salesian Center for Cash Bingo, Knights of Columbus, Holy Fam- sino, Wilkes-Barre, $30, 610-866-0360. Faith and Culture, DeSales University, Center Val- ily, Nazareth, 6:45 p.m., doors open 6 p.m., $20 for Sunday, April 28 ley, https://t.co/ZpAH8deqS8, 610-282-1100. 11 games. Wednesday, June 19 Divine Mercy Sunday, see article page 15. Holy Family, Nazareth, Golden Agers to “Trib- Health Fair, St. Francis of Assisi, Allentown, Good Friday, April 19 Sunday, May 19 ute to the Beach Boys,” Mount Airy Casino, Mount church hall, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Dramatic Stations of the Cross, St. John the Meat Bingo, St. John the Baptist, Allentown, so- Pocono, $66, 610-759-0576. Spring Welcoming Tea, for Irish-Catholic wom- Baptist, Pottsville, 7:30 p.m., doors open 6:30 p.m., cial hall, 1 p.m., doors open noon, $11 for 15 games, en by birth or marriage, Ladies Ancient Order of preludes begin 7:15 p.m., free will offering, 570- 610-432-3505. Friday, June 21 Hibernians, at Columbian Home, 1519 Greenleaf 622-5470. Designer Handbags, Baskets and Cash Bingo, Holy Trinity, Whitehall, Seniors in Action to St., Allentown, 2-4 p.m., wear Kentucky Derby hat, “Who Do You Say That I Am?” new passion Bethlehem Chapter of UNICO, at St. Francis Center “Guys and Dolls” Shawnee Playhouse, Shawnee on 610-509-0444 or [email protected]. drama by Monsignor John Murphy, St. Thomas for Renewal, Bethlehem, cafeteria, 1:30 p.m., doors the Delaware, $71, 610-262-6058. Spaghetti Dinner, Cedar Hill for Wreaths Across More, Allentown, Wednesday 7:30 p.m., Thursday open noon, advance tickets $20, at door $25, tickets America, Fullerton Memorial Playground, 3-6 p.m., 1 p.m., 610-433-7413, ext. 18. 610-691-1338, 610-865-2419. Monday, June 24 adults $10, seniors and children $8. kathy.wreaths@ Scriptural Good Friday Rosary, St. Jane Fran- St. Thomas More, Allentown to New York Mets gmail.com. ces de Chantal, Easton, chapel, noon; quiet prayer at Phillies, $75 or $60, 484-951-0440. in church until 3 p.m. Good Friday Service; 610- Monday, April 29 253-3553. Trips Tuesday, June 25 – Friday, June 28 Healing Vespers, Holy Ghost, Bethlehem, 6:30 Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Bethlehem, Fel- p.m. Editor’s note: The A.D. Times publishes newly lowship Group to Villa Roma, New York, $505, announced, Church-affiliated trips in every is- 484-456-6818, 484-767-8669. Wednesday, May 1 sue. The entire previously announced list is re- Community Spaghetti Dinner, Knights of Co- Retreats peated as space permits. Saturday, July 13 lumbus Monsignor Bornemann Council #16066 Send Church-affiliated trips to adtimes@ St. Thomas More, Allentown to Washington Na- of Sacred Heart, West Reading and Holy Rosary, First Tuesdays allentowndiocese.org by Thursday of the week tionals at Phillies, $60, 484-951-0440. Reading, at Victor Emmanuel II, 311 Hazel St., “Simply Prayer,” mornings of prayer, reflection before publication. Please notify The A.D. Times Reading, 4:30-7 p.m., adults $10, children $7. and sharing, St. Francis Center for Renewal, Beth- when seats are filled for a trip so it can be re- Thursday, July 25 Boston Market Fundraising Event, St. Michael’s lehem, 9:30 a.m.-noon, free will offering, 610-867- moved from the repeating list. St. Thomas More, Allentown, Prime Time to Byzantine, Allentown, location 385 S. Cedar Crest 8890, [email protected], www.stfrancis- Trip listings include sponsoring group, des- “Annie,” Dutch Apple Theater, Lancaster, $90, 610- Blvd., 4-8 p.m., tickets 484-553-3828. ctr.org. tination, cost and contact information. Contact 791-1758. the sponsor for other details, such as times, din- Notre Dame of Bethlehem to Hunterdon Hills, Friday, May 3 Monday, April 29 ing location, itineraries and what is included in $97, 610-866-0360. Pro-Life Town Hall Tour, Pennsylvania Pro- “Living from an Enfleshed Heart,” mini-retreat, the cost. Life Federation, at SS. Simon and Jude, Bethle- St. Francis Retreat House, Easton, dinner 6 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 13 hem, church hall, 7-9 p.m., no registration required, presentation 7-9 p.m., $30, 610-258-3053 ext. 10, Newly announced Holy Family, Nazareth, Golden Agers to Sky- [email protected]. www.stfrancisretreathouse.org. line Cruise of Atlantic City, New Jersey, $90, 610- Golf Outing. St. Jane Frances de Chantal, Thursday, June 13 759-0576. Easton, CYO at Riverview Golf Course, register Tuesday, April 30 Holy Guardian Angels, Reading, HGA Seniors www.sjhawks.com. “A Pilgrimage Called Life,” twilight retreat, St. to “Mamma Mia,” Fulton Theatre, Lancaster, $100, Saturday, Aug. 17 Francis Center for Renewal, Bethlehem, 6:45 a.m.- 610-921-1515 or 610-929-0384. St. Thomas More, Allentown to Indians at the Friday, May 3 9 p.m., $25, 610-867-8890, www.stfrancisctr.org. Yankees, $125 or $150, 484-951-0440. Life in the Spirit Seminar, Catholic Charismatic Wednesday, June 19 Renewal Service Committee of Diocese of Allen- Friday, May 10 St. Elizabeth of Hungary, Whitehall, Golden town, St. Michael Hall, 829 Main St., Northamp- “Priests Forever: A Retreat Day for Priests in Agers to Resorts, Atlantic City, $40, 610-264-3721. 22 The A.D. Times Diocese April 18, 2019

Publication Date Advertising Deadline News Deadline Upcoming May 2 April 22 April 25 May 16 May 6 May 9 Issues of May 30 May 20 May 23 June 20 June 10 June 13 July 11 July 1 July 4 The A.D. Times Aug. 1 July 22 July 25 Aug. 22 Aug. 12 Aug. 15 Sept. 12 Sept. 2 Sept. 5

It pays to advertise in The A.D. Times Contact Lori Anderson at [email protected] or 610-871-5200 extension 2273 April 18, 2019 Diocese The A.D. Times 23 Prefiguraciones Eucarísticas Por DIÁCONO JOSÉ SANTOS alcanzó a ver el lugar desde lejos…. Abraham construyó un altar y preparó Hay varias prefiguraciones eucarísti- la leña; luego ató a su hijo Isaac y lo cas en la Biblia, ellas anuncian el sacra- puso en el altar, sobre la leña; pero en mento de la Eucaristía a través del cual el momento de tomar el cuchillo para Jesús quiere salvar a toda la humani- sacrificar a su hijo, el ángel del Señor dad. La prefigura, podemos compararla lo llamó desde el cielo: ¡Abraham! problema que vemos con frecuencia: es dancia de este único pan de su Euca- al rayo y el trueno; el rayo es la luz, ¡Abraham! Aquí estoy contestó él. El un hijo, una hija rebelde que no quiere ristía. El signo del agua convertida en que anuncia lo que vendrá. Cuando co- ángel le dijo: No le hagas ningún daño obedecer a Dios y vivir de cualquier vino en Caná anuncia ya la Hora de mienza a nublarse pensamos que puede al muchacho…, (Gn 22, 1-12). manera rompiendo las normas que af- la glorificación de Jesús. Manifiesta el llover. Dios Padre ofreció por la salvación ectan, incluso a quien las viola. cumplimiento del banquete de las bo- “Cuando Abram regresó, después de tu alma, lo que más quería, su propio Las prefiguraciones eucarísticas das en el Reino del Padre, donde los de haber derrotado a Quedorlaómer Hijo; como pidió a Abraham ofrecer lo están en la Biblia, tanto en el antiguo fieles beberán el vino nuevo convertido y a los reyes que lo acompañaban, el que el más quería, a ti y a mí nos pide testamento como en el nuevo testa- en Sangre de Cristo (CIC 1335). rey de Sodoma salió a saludarlo en el dejar lo que tanto nos gusta y que hace mento, para preparar a los fieles a la El primer anuncio de la Eucaristía valle de Savé, que es el valle del rey. daño a nuestras almas para salvarnos. celebración de éste misterio tan grande, dividió a los discípulos, igual que el Melquisedec, rey de Salem y sacerdote Jesús obedeció a su Padre y se ofreció muchos todavía están a mitad de cami- anuncio de la pasión los escandalizó: del Dios altísimo, sacó pan y vino y a sí mismo, su propio cuerpo, su vida no para vivir en el Reino de los Cielos, “Es duro este lenguaje, ¿quién puede bendijo a Abram con estas palabras: por la tuya. ya presente en la tierra. escucharlo?” (Jn 6, 60). La Eucaristía ‘Que te bendiga el Dios altísimo, cre- Entonces el Señor le dijo a Moisés: Los discípulos comentaban entre sí y la cruz son piedras de tropiezo. Es ador del cielo y de la tierra; y alabado Voy a hacer que les llueva comida del que no tenían pan. Jesús se dio cuen- el mismo misterio, y no cesa de ser sea el Dios altísimo que te hizo vencer a cielo. La gente deberá salir cada día, ta, y les dijo: ¿Por qué dicen que no ocasión de división. “¿También ustedes tus enemigos.’ Entonces Abram le dio a y recogerá sólo lo necesario para ese tienen pan? ¿Todavía no entienden ni quieren marcharse?” (Jn 6, 67): esta Melquisedec la décima parte de lo que día. Quiero ver quién obedece mis in- se dan cuenta? ¿Tienen tan cerrado el pregunta del Señor resuena a través de había recobrado” (Gn 14, 17-20). strucciones y quién no. El sexto día, entendimiento? ¿Tienen ojos y no ven, las edades, como invitación de su amor Partiendo de este pasaje antiguo en- cuando preparen lo que van a llevar a y oídos y no oyen? ¿No se acuerdan? a descubrir que sólo Él tiene “palabras contramos las materias que Jesús usa en casa, deberán recoger el doble de lo que Cuando repartí los cinco panes entre de vida eterna” (Jn 6, 68), y que acoger la última cena para enseñar lo que Dios recogen cada día. Moisés y Aarón dijer- cinco mil hombres, ¿cuántas canastas en la fe el don de su Eucaristía es aco- quiere que se haga hoy, en cada asam- on entonces a los israelitas: Por la tarde llenas de pedazos recogieron? Ellos gerlo a El mismo (CIC 1336). blea del pueblo del Dios que le ama, le sabrán ustedes que el Señor fue quien contestaron: Doce. Y cuando repartí Es impresionante, meditar en esos busca y le adora. los sacó de Egipto, y por la mañana los siete panes entre cuatro mil, momentos de la historia del pueblo de Después de algún tiempo, Dios puso verán la gloria del Señor…. Los isra- ¿cuántas canastas llenas recogieron? Dios, y como el Señor quiere de una y a prueba la fe de Abraham. Lo llamó elitas llamaron maná a lo que recogían. Contestaron: Siete. Entonces les dijo: otra manera ayudarnos, para que crea- por su nombre, y él contestó: Aquí es- Era blanco, como semilla de cilantro, y ¿Todavía no entienden? (Mc 8, 16-21). mos cada vez más de su presencia entre toy. Y Dios le dijo: Toma a Isaac, tu dulce como hojuelas con miel (Ex 16, Los milagros de la multiplicación de nosotros. La gloria de Dios se muestra único hijo, al que tanto amas, y vete a 4-7, 31). los panes, cuando el Señor dijo la ben- en cada celebración de la Eucaristía en la tierra de Moria. Una vez allá, ofréce- Dios Padre es quién provee todo lo dición, partió y distribuyó los panes por la tierra. Aprovecha cada oportunidad lo en holocausto sobre el cerro que yo necesario; a Él le agrada que le obedez- medio de sus discípulos para alimentar disponible, que Jesús te ofrece para este señalaré…. Al tercer día, Abraham can y guarden sus mandamientos. El la multitud, prefiguran la sobreabun- tar con Él en este augusto sacramento. 24 The A.D. Times Diocese April 18, 2019 40 Days for Life Director of Outreach Speaks in Lehigh Valley By TAMI QUIGLEY in a new light and ultimately shared her Staff writer insider’s knowledge. Her vast experience coupled with her changed heart and bold Spring is the season of new life, and faith has led to a whistle-blower lawsuit, therefore the perfect time for Sue Thayer, currently in litigation. former Planned Parenthood manager and Thayer led Storm Lake’s first 40 Days current 40 Days for Life director of out- for Life campaign at the very clinic she reach, to bring the message of “the begin- had supervised. Soon after completing ning of the end of abortion” to the Lehigh the prayer vigil, that Planned Parenthood Valley April 2. closed its doors forever. Storm Lake was Thayer shared her story of transfor- the first of 21 Iowa Planned Parenthoods mation with approximately 30 people at to close. noon in front of Planned Parenthood, 29 Thayer is founder and former director N. Ninth St., Allentown. That morning of Cornerstone for Life Pregnancy Cen- she spoke at Allentown Women’s Center, ter in Storm Lake. She is passionately 31 S. Commerce Way, Bethlehem. pro-life with a deep desire that the whole The talks were two of several Thayer world understand the abortion industry, gave April 1-4 in Pennsylvania and New particularly the evils of webcam abortion. Jersey. According to Iowa Right to Life, with This spring’s 40 Days for Life cam- a webcam abortion a woman goes to a paign ran March 6 through April 14. Planned Parenthood where there is no “It’s an interesting story, what God doctor physically present; she consults a did,” Thayer said of her journey from doctor only via webcam. working for Planned Parenthood to being The doctor remotely activates a draw- an ardent pro-lifer, during her lunchtime er that opens and provides the woman talk in Allentown. with two bottles of abortion pill drugs. 40 Days for Life is an intensive cam- The first pills, which kill the baby in the paign that focuses on 40 days of prayer womb, are taken by the woman in front Sue Thayer brings the message of “the beginning of the end of abortion” to and fasting for an end to abortion, peace- of the webcam. She takes the other pills downtown Allentown April 2 as she gives a lunchtime talk in front of Planned ful vigil at abortion facilities, and grass- home to take later to expel the baby. Parenthood, 29 N. Ninth St. (Photos by John Simitz) roots educational outreach. As Thayer spoke to the pro-lifers in Since 40 Days for Life began, 15,256 downtown Allentown, she explained how “I wasn’t pro-life or pro-choice – I was abortion; if they were pro-choice, they’d mothers have chosen life for their chil- she was very vocal with her thoughts just glad to be out.” share information on adoption. dren, 186 abortion workers have quit against webcam abortion procedures, es- But when pro-lifers in her hometown “Planned Parenthood is in the business their jobs and 99 abortion centers where pecially when told nonmedical staff had wanted to know what went on at Planned of selling abortions. 40 Days for Life vigils have been held to do transvaginal ultrasounds. Parenthood, she explained the webcam “It galls me that as taxpayers we fund have gone out of business. “That was a really bad idea,” she said. abortions and how horrible they are. their killing machine with $5.42 million Thayer worked for nearly two decades When Planned Parenthood fired her in She said women could find out they a year.” at a Planned Parenthood facility in Storm 2008, “It was a relief to know I’d never were pregnant and have the abortion in Thayer said as she ran her first 40 Lake, Iowa. When the be part of that,” she said of the same visit. “There was no waiting Days for Life campaign she doubted abortion giant began webcam abortions. period. Planned Parenthood doesn’t like there would be enough people in her selling controversial “Planned Parenthood “I did a lot of bad stuff in waiting periods. Planned Parenthood small rural community to fill the slots to and dangerous web- my time there,” Thayer said likes that the webcam abortions are done pray 12 hours a day. But a 40 Days for cam abortion proce- is in the business of of her time with Planned all in one visit.” Life worker gave her sage advice: “Sue, dures, she spoke out selling abortions.” Parenthood. “They kept The webcam abortions cause many you don’t want to limit God.” and was fired. Thayer goals for abortion, and if problems, such as women often wind up Sure enough, they had more than believed she was fi- you didn’t meet them, you in the emergency room with heavy bleed- enough people, but it took Catholics, nally free of the abor- had to explain why.” ing. Protestants and Evangelicals working to- tion industry, but God had other plans. To help meet the “goal,” women who “Planned Parenthood doesn’t use the gether – not an easy task in their small In 2011 she reluctantly signed up to came in were told such things as “If you word baby – they say ‘contents of the farm community. They complained they lead a 40 Days for Life campaign in front can’t afford $10 for a pregnancy test to- uterus’ or ‘tissue.’ The ultrasound screen didn’t pray the same way. of her former workplace. Soon after the day, how can you afford a baby?” and is always turned away with the sound After a bumpy start, the squabbling Planned Parenthood facility shuttered its workers emphasized the high cost of car down so you don’t hear the baby’s heart- stopped and they worked together. “I doors. seats. beat,” Thayer said. No one in the pro-life world has been “Thirteen weeks and six days is pretty “They are not pro-choice, they’re pro- Please see 40 DAYS page 25 }} inside Planned Parenthood longer than far along – that’s what goes on here,” Thayer. Having been a center manager Thayer said, her eyes focused on the for nearly 18 years, she believed she was Planned Parenthood building in front of helping women. But that all changed her where abortions are performed until when she was informed she would soon a little over 13 weeks into a pregnancy. be trained to do webcam abortions at her Thayer said after being fired from small rural Iowa center. Planned Parenthood, she shared with Stunned, her concerns fell on deaf Iowa Right to Life what Planned Parent- ears. She began to see the abortion giant hood was doing with webcam abortions.

Pro-lifers gather in prayer in front of Planned Parenthood, from left, Maria Klucar, Amy Clark, Milad Allaham, Judy Clark, Alena Clark, Joan Cavanaugh, Maryanne Pol, Quinn Allen and Rita Ender. That morning Thayer spoke in front of Allentown Women’s Center, 31 S. Commerce Way, Bethlehem, which also “I’m excited to know prayer works and God heals,” Thayer says as Mike Kor- provides abortions. nafel listens at right. April 18, 2019 Diocese The A.D. Times 25

Learn the Harmful Effects of Pornography “Seek Always the Light of Christ,” nography.” a frank discussion on the effects of por- It provides education, training, en- nography on children and adults, will be couragement and resources to break free Monday, May 20 at 7 p.m. at St. Francis from pornography, heal relationships, and of Assisi Church, 1046 W. Cedar St., Al- assist parents in preventing and respond- lentown, in the parish hall. ing to pornography exposure, which is so Reading/Berks The event will be for adults only – any devastating in the lives of children. parents or grandparent, aunt or uncle, For more information, visit website brother or sisters; any persons who work www.adlumenchristi.org, and follow on March for Life Set for May 5 with children of any age, in any capacity; Facebook “Lumen Christi Commission,” The ninth annual Reading/Berks Penn Street bridge into Reading. any Catholic or non-Catholic adult who Twitter @ADLumenChristi and Insta- March for Life is scheduled for Sunday, A prayer vigil will be held outside of is interested in learning about the effects gram @adlumenchristi. May 5 at Berks Catholic High School, Planned Parenthood. of pornography on our society and ways The hotline can be reached at 610- 955 E. Wyomissing Blvd., Reading. Then marchers will proceed to Holy to effectuate change to protect ourselves 871-5200 option 1 for Lumen Christi. The rally will begin at 2 p.m. with Rosary Church. Buses will be provided and our families. For questions or more information, email guest speakers Georgette Forney from to transport participants back to Berks Speaker will be Father Allen Hoffa, ADLumenChristi@allentowndiocese. the Silent No More Awareness Campaign Catholic. chair of the Lumen Christi Commission org. and Stephanie Giles, director of Lifeline Baby items are requested for donation of the Diocese of Allentown. For more information about the May of Berks County. to crisis pregnancy centers in Reading. Bishop of Allentown Alfred Schlert 20 event, call St. Francis Church at 610- The March for Life will begin prompt- Food and drink will be available for established the Lumen Christi Commis- 433-6102 or visit www.stfrancisallen- ly at 3 p.m. sale at the school before and after the sion “to help in the pastoral planning of town.org. Participants will march across the rally. addressing the burgeoning issue of por-

found a spot to rent and quickly raised $10,000 “because God’s people are 40 Days abundant and generous.” So Cornerstone }}Continued from page 24 Pregnancy Center in Storm Lake became a reality. prayed they’d get along. God worked it “We’ve gone from a culture of this,” out,” Thayer said, adding she asked them Thayer said, looking at the Planned Par- to pray Psalm 139. “For the next 35 days enthood building, “to a culture of life.” or so for every minute we had at least two Speaking of the movie “Unplanned,” people there.” Today, the churches all Thayer said she knows Abby Johnson, work together and get along. on whose book the film is based. Now Thayer said God answered their an ardent pro-life speaker, Johnson was a prayers that the Storm Lake Planned Par- director at Planned Parenthood in Bryan enthood would close, despite the fact that Texas, the college town of Texas A&M. it made a lot of money and had a lease “The movie is very accurate in how through 2023. “Since then they have just they perform abortions. The scenes are kept on closing. very accurate – babies are dismembered “I’m excited to know prayer works in the womb,” Thayer said. and God heals.” “God is really counting on us to be Thayer said 40 Days for Life leaders the hands and feet of Christ here. You are from across the country ask her how she planting seeds, you are making a differ- did all this, “and I told them to pray.” ence,” Thayer told those gathered. “We’re on the right side of the divine “I had typical hardness of heart do- Thayer, second from left, chats with Judy Clark, Amy Clark and Quinn Allen. here for sure.” ing what they do here – selling murder,” Thayer said God impressed on her Thayer said of Planned Parenthood. “We’re standing for life.” loves you.’” the need for a pregnancy center, which She described 40 Days for Life as “It’s hard to argue with someone hold- To learn more about 40 Days for Life, became a reality. Thayer and her group wonderful, peaceful and prayerful. ing a sign, smiling and saying, ‘Jesus visit www.40daysforlife.com. 26 The A.D. Times World April 18, 2019 Victim Assistance Coordinators Comfort in a Behind-the-Scenes Ministry Editor’s note: This is the Deacon Nojadera said. community, the body of Christ. third story in a series from Victim assistance programs are meant In some cases, the coordinator’s of- Catholic News Service to show that the church cares about abuse fice regularly convenes support groups called “Children at Risk” victims, he added. of survivor victims. In Arlington, the on child sexual abuse in “Opening transparency is a big thing gatherings differ from meeting to meet- the United States. that needs to be carried out. Victim as- ing. One may offer advice on healing and sistance coordinators are one way that the next may be a holy hour of prayer and By DENNIS SADOWSKI that’s being carried out. They’re commu- reflection. Catholic News Service nicating that they’re promising to protect, “The benefit of the group is fighting promising to heal,” he said. “The victim against the isolation that they feel when WASHINGTON (CNS) assistance coordinator is one of the ways they’re going through this, Moncher said. - Their work begins with a that the church is doing that, one of the Banis keeps a list of survivors whom phone call. ways of helping the bishops keep that she can contact to air ideas for outreach Whether the call is from promise of transparency.” and programs for support. “We are doing someone who is angry, em- Banis, Chastain and Moncher know our best to stay relevant and authentic in barrassed, unsure of what to that when a victim reaches out to their these efforts,” she told CNS. do or needs a friendly ear, office, it is a high bar to get -over. Vic The coordinators agreed that the entire diocesan and eparchial victims may have self-doubt, serious unmet church has a role in helping abuse survi- tim assistance coordinators mental health needs or skepticism that vors achieve healing and reconciliation are the face of the church’s the church really will help. No matter the and working to help perpetrators face the response to victims of sexu- situation, they credited survivor victims harm they have committed. al abuse by a church worker for taking an important step. “We’re the body of Christ together – clergy or otherwise. “Somebody on their first call, it may and that we as a community can heal It’s a line of work that be very unsettling. It’s not easy. It’s hard together if we recognize each and every is public in one sense but to do. There’s a lot of anxiety about that,” member and hold those who have harmed not all that well known in said Banis, who has been in her role since accountable in a reconciliatory manner,” another. While their names 2016 and has worked with the Los An- Chastain said. “And we need to believe often appear in parish bul- geles Archdiocese assisting with abuse and validate and support and care for letins, the faithful aren’t The cover of the USCCB “Charter for the Protec- claims for a decade. these survivors, who, even if they’ve left always sure of the role they Chastain, a onetime business consul- the church, are a part of our community.” play in the life of the church. tion of Children and Young People.” (CNS photo illustration/Rick Musacchio, Tennessee Register) tant whose work in abuse awareness and Banis closed by offering advice to Most importantly though, prevention at her parish led to her ap- those who criticize survivor victims for coordinators told Catholic pointment as coordinator, has been in the waiting years to report their abuse. News Service, theirs is a ministry built I feel like we’re moving steadily to a safe position for three years. She works side- “I want people to take a moment to on compassion, created to show that the and more authentic response in regard to by-side with an independent ombudsman think about what it would be like to be Catholic Church wants to help people in prevention and recovery needs,” she said. in determining a survivor victim’s needs. a child and to have heard from their par- recovery and reconciliation after an ap- The position of victim assistance co- The ombudsman is charged with under- ents that this person (abuser) is one of palling violation of their human dignity. ordinator was established in the “Charter standing the facts of the allegation while the most respected persons you will ever “It’s about listening and communi- for the Protection of Children and Young Chastain’s role is to support the victim. meet and a representative of God,” Banis cating and identifying needs,” Kathleen People” adopted by the U.S. Confer- “We could accompany them to the said. “To be harmed by that person, per- Chastain, victim services coordinator in ence of Catholic Bishops in response to police for a statement and pulling in any haps threatened by that person or perhaps the Office of Child and Youth Protection the sexual abuse crisis that exploded in professional counselor or spiritual advis- in some way made to feel complicit is a in the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, 2002. Article 2 of the charter states that er. Sometimes it’s sitting with the bishop. powerful deterrent to a small child who Missouri, said of her work. “dioceses/eparchies are to have a com- And it’s figuring out what it is that they is afraid, who has been frightened and “There are calls now and then where petent person or person to coordinate as- need to help them on their journey,” is afraid of what could happen next and people are just angry and venting, but the sistance for the immediate pastoral care Chastain said. who has been told not to be expected to vast majority are people who are trying of persons who report having been sexu- “For the most part, the victims are very be believed. to find the way to reconciliation,” said ally abused as minors by clergy or other grateful (for what we do),” she added. “This is something that changes Frank Moncher, a clinical psychologist church personnel.” Moncher, in his position for six people’s lives. It changes what they feel who is victim assistance coordinator Deacon Bernard Nojadera, executive months, said he has found that most of the about themselves, their families and cer- in the Diocese of Arlington, Virginia. director of the Secretariat of Child and survivors who call the office are “people tainly how they feel about God.” “They’re hurt, they’re wounded. They’re Youth Protection at the USCCB, said all of strong faith.” She continued, “I want to caution obviously upset about the way things 197 U.S. dioceses and eparchies have “They’ve been asked, ‘Why haven’t people before we’re quick to judge and were handled in the past. But here they such a coordinator in place. you given up on the church?’ Their an- dismiss and ask, ‘Why now?’ Just re- are looking for a way of finding peace.” “In some cases, these are actually dioc- swers have been, ‘It’s the people who member what it’s like to be 6 or 7 years For Heather Banis, a clinical psychol- esan employees. In some cases, they are made the mistake. The church is still the old or 12 or 13 years old and to be caught ogist who is victim assistance coordinator using an outside third party like Catholic church,’” he said. up in something you cannot possibly un- for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, the Charities or a local mental health agency Such deep faith in the church has been derstand. I just feel like we need to have idea of ministry is foremost in her work. to provide these services. But there is inspiring for the coordinators. They said more compassion.” “My sense is that this is doing the right someone they (survivors) can connect that while survivor victims want justice Banis added, “It’s a community effort thing. When we couple what we do for with, that can accompany the survivor from the church, they also desire to stay to live up to our responsibilities to make healing with what we do for prevention, victim on their journey toward healing,” connected with the broader Catholic the healing begin.” Mother Tells How Daughter Became Victim of Sex Trafficking, Lost Her Life Editor’s note: This is the fourth story Activists take part in a “Walk for Free- in a series from Catholic News Service dom” in 2018 to protest against hu- called “Children at Risk” on child sexu- man trafficking in Berlin. The Fred- al abuse in the United States. erick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reautho- By ELEANOR KENNELLY GAETAN rization Act of 2018 recently passed Catholic News Service by Congress and signed Jan. 8 by President Donald Trump allocates WASHINGTON (CNS) – Yvonne $430 million through 2022 to prevent Ambrose had one of the worst experienc- and respond to human trafficking in es any mother can suffer: Her daughter the U.S. and abroad. (CNS photo/ Desiree, age 16, was found in a garage on Fabrizio Bensch, Reuters) Christmas Eve 2016 murdered by a man who beat her, slashed her throat and left her to die, painfully alone, in the Chicago shut down by federal investigators eight cold. months ago – and drove her to “dates,” The internet was the key element that where she was raped for money. turned Desiree from a happy “A” student It was a sex buyer, Antonio Rosales, to a tragic victim of sexual violence. 32, who murdered Desiree. First, she met a man in his early 20s According to the U.S. Centers for on Facebook. He “groomed” her, a tech- Disease Control and Prevention, child nique used by exploiters to earn trust to sexual abuse includes commercial sexual manipulate or control a potential victim exploitation as well as using children in of sex abuse. Soon after, her new “boyfriend” sold – an internet platform that earned the pornography and exposing them to por- Desiree ran away from home in late her for $250 to a pimp who took photos vast majority of its multimillion revenue November that year. of her, advertised her on Backpage.com from ads selling human flesh until it was Please see TRAFFICKING page 27 }} April 18, 2019 World The A.D. Times 27

feast day of St. Josephine Bakhita, who was kidnapped as a child and sold into Trafficking slavery in Sudan and Italy. }}Continued from page26 Covenant House, which shelters homeless youth in 14 states most ages 16- nographic material – whether or not there 20, estimates that 20 percent of the young is physical contact. people it serves have been victims of hu- In her new book “Invading the Dark- man trafficking. On the streets, too often, ness: Inside the Historic Fight Against they have sold, or bartered, access to their Sex Trafficking in the United States,” bodies in exchange for food, drugs, alco- former Congresswoman Linda Smith, R- hol or a bed. Washington, describes how she first en- Ninety-five percent of all sex traffick- countered girls and women kept as cap- ing victims reported childhood experi- tives in brothels in Mumbai, India. ences of abuse, according to a study com- Touching the face of a child no older missioned by Covenant House from the than 11, condemned to endless assault by University of Pennsylvania’s Field Cen- men using her body, Smith committed prostitution,” recounted Smith, “They took a similar view about stronger laws ter for Children’s Policy, Practice & herself to combating the phenomena of were called ‘bad kids,’ runaways, or directed at sex buyers, or “clients,” who Research. international sex trafficking. She started worse. Yet, they were all victims.” the council said “need help in solving “Traffickers can sense (past sexual Shared Hope International in 2000 as a Shared Hope International did one of their most intimate problems and in find- abuse),” said Angela Aufdemberge, pres- faith-based nongovernmental organiza- the first studies of Domestic Minor Sex ing suitable ways of directing their sexual ident of Vista Maria, a social services tion providing shelter and services for Trafficking for the U.S. Department of tendencies. organization in Dearborn Heights, Michi- survivors abroad. Justice in 2006. “’Buying sex’ does not resolve the gan, told an anti-trafficking conference in But “I was missing something essen- She continued, “Meanwhile, a man problems that arise primarily from frus- Washington last May. “The biggest need tial,” she told Catholic News Service. would go to an ATM, drive to a desig- tration and lack of authentic relationships, is to address maltreatment in homes and “Something that made my blood run nated location to receive the product he and from the loneliness that characterizes regulating who our kids are communicat- cold. The fact that child trafficking was bought and commit a premeditated crime so many situations in life today,” it said. ing with on the internet.” happening in our own neighborhoods. I – the rape of a child – but instead of being “An effective measure toward cultural Ten months ago President Donald had a global view, not realizing this was a seen as a violent predator, he’s an anony- change with respect to prostitution could Trump signed a new law making it illegal domestic issue too.” mous ‘John.’ It’s the child who’s usually derive from associating criminal law with for online platforms to knowingly facili- Under U.S. federal law, any minor ex- considered a criminal, while the ‘John’ social condemnation.” tate sex trafficking. It was a law Yvonne ploited in the commercial sex industry is goes home.” The Catholic Church has designated Ambrose had helped lobby for in Con- a victim of human trafficking, but until To prevent child sex trafficking, Smith Feb. 8 as an annual International Day of gress. about 10 years ago, especially at the state advocates for stronger state laws includ- Prayer and Awareness Against Human Standing next to him as he signed the and local level, children who got caught ing harsher penalties against sex buyers Trafficking and invites people to host or measure in the Oval Office was a bitter- up in prostitution were blamed for what to shrink the demand for vulnerable bod- attend a prayer service that fosters aware- sweet experience for her. happened to them. ies. ness of and support for victims of traf- Ambrose told the president: “Our fight “As a matter of routine, kids were be- In 2007, the Pontifical Council for the ficking. against online sex trafficking has made a ing arrested, charged, and convicted for Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant The annual day, created with Pope change – a change that will save the life Francis’ encouragement in 2015, is the of someone else’s daughter.”

addiction. But, he warned, an addiction to He told them to not be afraid of silence them, so be vigilant, protect people’s dig- one’s mobile phone was something “very and to learn to listen to or write down nity and defend “authentic love, so as not Phones subtle.” what is going on inside their heart and to trivialize the language of the body.” }}Continued from page 1 “Mobile phones are a great help, it head. He asked them to help their school remarks great progress. It should be used, “It is more than a science, it is wis- main free from all forms of bullying and est classical lyceum – the Ennio Quirino and it is wonderful everyone knows how dom, so as to not become a piece of pa- aggression, which are “the seeds of war.” Visconti Lyceum-Gymnasium. Some no- to use it” for the “wonderful” activity of per” that moves in whatever direction the And he encouraged them to reject me- table alumni include Eugenio Pacelli, the communication, he said. wind blows, he said. diocrity and indifference, and instead, future Pope Pius XII, and Jesuit Father “But when you become a slave to your The pope also told the teenagers that “dream big,” living with passion and em- Matteo Ricci. phone, you lose your freedom,” he said. God gave everyone the ability to love. bracing diversity. The pope told the high school students “Be careful because there is danger “Don’t dirty it” with shameful behav- “Dialogue among different cultures, to “please, free yourselves from your that this drug – when the phone is a drug ior, but rather, love “cleanly” with mod- different people, enriches a nation, en- phone addiction!” – the danger of communication being re- esty, fidelity, respect and a big generous riches one’s homeland,” he said. It helps Looking up at his audience as they ap- duced to simple ‘contacts’” and not true heart. people move forward in mutual respect plauded, the pope said he knew they were communication with others, he said to “Love is not a game. Love is the most and be able to see the world is “for every- aware of the many forms and problems of more applause. beautiful thing God gave us,” he told one, not just for some.” Assisted Suicide Now Law in Jersey; It’s In the Cards for ‘Perfect Pitch’ Sister Cardinal Calls it ‘Morally Unacceptable’ WASHINGTON (CNS) – The perfect pitch last August and said a card pictur- pitch Dominican Sister Mary Jo Sobieck ing her would be perfect for their Allen NEWARK, N.J. (CNS) – Cardinal him not to sign the bill into law. threw prior to a Chicago White Sox game & Ginter series, which also features Joseph Tobin of Newark called New Jer- In his statement the day of the sign- last summer not only went viral but is still pop culture icons and historical figures in sey’s new law allowing assisted suicide ing, Murphy said that “allowing residents out of the park. its packs. regrettable, saying “whatever its motives with terminal illnesses to make end-of- First, there was a bobblehead in her The image on the card is when she and means,” it is “morally unacceptable.” life choices for themselves is the right image and now, she has her own baseball came off the mound pointing at White “Every gift of human life is sacred, thing to do.” card. Sox pitcher Lucas Giolito, who caught from conception to natural death, and the “By signing this bill today, we are Not bad for a theology teacher at arian her pitch. She is wearing a Marian Catho- life and dignity of every person must be providing terminally ill patients and their Catholic High School in Chicago. And in lic T-shirt over her white habit with the respected and protected at every stage families with the humanity, dignity, and baseball terms, it’s a double, because the number “60” on it for the school’s 60th and in every condition,” the cardinal said respect that they so richly deserve at the money she gets for the cards goes directly anniversary. in a statement April 12, the day Demo- most difficult times any of us will face,” to her school’s scholarship program. She was chosen to throw out the first cratic Gov. Phil Murphy signed the Med- he said, and he thanked the Legislature Sister Mary Jo also got to throw out pitch that night because it was Marian ical Aid in Dying for the Terminally Ill “for its courage in tackling this challeng- the pregame pitch April 11 at Busch Sta- Catholic Night at the park. Act, effective Aug. 1. ing issue.” dium in St. Louis before the Cardinals’ For the card deal, Sister Mary Jo re- “Those whose lives are diminished or One of the opponents of the measure game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, ceives $1,000, which she is donating to weakened deserve special respect. Sick who testified at the Statehouse March 25, which isn’t bad for the sister who also the Sister Mary Jo Endowed Scholarship or disabled persons should be helped to Dawn Teresa Parkot, who did not mince happens to be a Cardinals’ fan. fund, established after she threw out the lead lives as normal as possible,” Cardi- words when speaking about the Aid in According to news reports, the Twins now-famous pitch. The school has pro- nal Tobin said. Dying bill. rank at the top for the sister who grew up moted the fund on social media noting Under the new law, which goes “I firmly believe that assisted suicide in Minnesota, followed next by the White that Sister Mary Jo is asking for match- against the Catholic Church’s fundamen- is homicide and those who assist, re- Sox, but her favorite team in the National ing funds for those who support Catholic tal teaching on the sanctity of all human gardless of their intentions, are guilty of League is the Cardinals, whom she dis- education. life, adults who receive a terminal diag- taking a life just as surely as if they par- covered and went to plenty of games to All of this fame might be new to the nosis would be allowed to obtain self-ad- ticipated in a state-sanctioned execution,” see, when she moved to Springfield, Il- Dominican sister, but she’s hardly new to ministered medication to end their lives. said Parkot, a quadriplegic motivational linois, to join the Dominican sisters there the sport that brought her to this level. In Murphy is Catholic. speaker with athetoid cerebral palsy. She in the 1993. elementary school, high school and col- It passed the Assembly 41-33 and the uses a computer-based communication On April 8, she signed 260 limited- lege she played softball, basketball and Senate 21-16 March 25. As the measure system to speak. edition baseball cards bearing her im- volleyball. awaited Murphy’s signature, pro-life age in the gym at Marian Catholic High She certainly never imagined she groups and other opponents urged state School. The baseball card company, would be on a baseball card. residents to contact the governor and ask Topps, contacted her after her famous 28 The A.D. Times World April 18, 2019 Cathedral Called Symbol Not Just Of Faith, But ‘Fact All Humans Have Souls’ PHILADELPHIA (CNS) – Here is an April 16 column on the Notre Dame Cathedral fire from CatholicPhilly.com, the news website of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. It was written by M. Jean Duchesne, a French Catholic guest col- umnist, and appears in place of Archbish- op Charles Chaput’s regular column. Duchesne co-founded the French edition of the Communio international theological journal and served as special assistant to the late Cardinal Jean-Marie Lustiger of Paris for more than 25 years. The author of numerous books and articles on the faith, active in Jewish- Catholic dialogues and a consultant to Cardinal Lustiger’s successors, “he has been a friend to the church in the United States for decades,” writes Archbishop Chaput. “He and his family live in Paris. I’m grateful for his willingness to offer his thoughts here on the Paris Holy Week fire.” Duchesne’s column follows: Seeing Notre Dame de Paris burning and threatening to collapse is a shock that leaves everyone voiceless – including President Emmanuel Macron, who can- celed a speech dealing with the social un- rest in France over the past few months. The cathedral towering above the is- land on the Seine that was the cradle of the city is more than a venerable medi- A reliquary containing what tradition holds is Jesus’ crown of thorns is displayed during a ceremony at Notre Dame eval building, more than an exceptionally Cathedral in Paris March 21, 2014. (CNS photo/Philippe Wojazer, Reuters) beautiful architectural masterpiece. It has been for centuries the heart not ingful is perceived as a miracle that no ioned the interior with an elegant modern the massive sense of affliction and soli- only of Paris, but of the whole nation, science can either deny or explain. This is altar in the middle. darity of non-believers, since it proves the place where even atheistic presidents why even nonbelievers feel affected. The The loss of all this might seem to be that for them, however irreligious they and ministers came to pray because they Paris cathedral is the symbol not just of the last blow after all the sex abuse scan- are, the visible church is not a mere rem- could not think of anything else to do the Catholic faith, but of the fact that all dals that have hit the church recently, and nant of the past, but a vital part of the when France was victorious (in 1918), humans have souls. all the sociological studies highlighting scenery, without which they themselves defeated (in 1940) or liberated (in 1944). Rather strangely, non-Catholics la- the plummeting numbers of baptisms, or- miss something. Yet, in the end, this sup- It was desecrated during the French ment more noisily than Catholics. They dinations and religious vocations, or report does not make that much of a dif- Revolution and turned into a temple of fear the damage is irreversible. Can it be vealing that the younger generations are ference. the goddess Reason, but Napoleon real- repaired? How much will it cost? Can it simply unsure what Christians commem- What is decisive is the knowledge that ized he had to give it back to the church be afforded? orate at Easter or what a parish is exactly. Jesus Christ the groom will never aban- and be crowned there if he was actually to A fund has already been started to On top of it all, this happens just at don his bride the church – which does not become an emperor. raise the money that is needed. But will the beginning of Holy Week, the most sa- mean that her faithfulness will never be It also is a vibrant reminder of the faith this be enough to restore everything as it cred time of year for Christians: Where tested. of our ancestors, which shaped the monu- was? Is it possible to rebuild the roof’s will the archbishop gather his priests for The Temple on Mount Zion was de- ment and inspired every detail as a facet oak framework that had resisted the ele- chrism Mass? And finally, why did God stroyed, rebuilt and destroyed again. of God’s revelation and gifts as well as ments since the 13th century? Will Notre allow this? St. Peter’s in Rome was plundered sev- the overall design. It was meant and has Dame ever be the same again? Notre Dame on fire and perhaps unus- eral times. The crusaders lost Jerusalem. survived as a representation of the celes- The faithful are less pessimistic, able for months if not years is undoubt- What ultimately matters is not the signifi- tial abode that everyone openly hopes for though they quite reasonably could be. edly a trial. But faith does not allow to see er (the cathedral), but the signified (God’s or secretly dreams of. The late Cardinal Jean-Marie Lustiger this as a punishment or the confirmation glory) which remains forever fertile and That something so ancient should defy had centered the Paris Archdiocese’s life of a decline and fall. will forever inspire those who long for it. time and remain so mysteriously mean- in and around the cathedral and refash- There is some comfort to be found in

ported much of the building continued hoped the European Union’s 28 member- loss” to the whole world. to smolder April 16, as thousands of on- states would all help share the costs. “Something from the best of humanity Hope lookers continued to pray and sing hymns French newspapers said the Pinault went up in flames yesterday evening, and }}Continued from page 1 in nearby streets. family, whose consortium owns the Gu- I sense a large part of humanity is in com- Rescue teams formed a human chain cci and Saint-Laurent fashion brands, had munion with our grief,” Bishop Moulin- imagination, the place where we have to remove many of the cathedral’s price- pledged 100 million euros (US$113 mil- Beaufort said. experienced our great moments, the epi- less artworks and sacred objects, includ- lion) overnight, while the LVMH group, “But cathedral edifices have been center of our life,” said Macron, who was ing the crown of thorns relic from Jesus’ which includes Moet Hennessy-Louis burned before and every time they’ve accompanied by the archbishop, French crucifixion and a gold tunic of St. Louis, Vitton, had promised 200 million euros been rebuilt even more beautifully. So I Prime Minister Edouard Philippe, and the report said. (US$226 million). see in this tragedy the occasion for a na- Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo. Noted art historian Jean-Michel Le- In a television interview in the wee tional restart and a sign of resurrection “We built this cathedral over centu- niaud told the newspaper April 16 it was hours of April 16, Archbishop Aupetit for the whole nation,” he said. ries, raising it up and improving it, and I too soon to assess the extent of the fire said the cathedral symbolized “the soul Paris prosecutors said they had opened now state solemnly that we will, all of us damage but said it would certainly repre- and history of France,” as “a site travers- investigations into the cause of massive together, reconstruct it. This is undoubt- sent “a major blow and terrifying mutila- ing the centuries which was always a fire and were questioning workers carry- edly part of the French destiny,” Macron tion of the country’s history.” place of faith.” ing out an eight-year restoration project, said. The cathedral symbolized “relations He explained how the disaster had launched in January. Up to 500 firefighters battled for 15 between religion and political power,” he stirred “deep emotions” throughout Notre Dame’s chief organist told the hours to save the cathedral after flames said, adding that he believed the French France, adding that he had received mes- BBC the fire had been reported shortly erupted in the structure’s attic about 6:30 state should “take charge of its recon- sages of sympathy from faith leaders after an April 15 early evening Mass. He p.m. local time. The blaze quickly con- struction.” worldwide, including many Muslims. said he and other members of the cathe- sumed two-thirds of the 13th-century oak Meanwhile, offers of support in re- The newly elected president of the dral staff were “devastated.” roof and brought down the cathedral’s building the cathedral, a UNESCO World French bishops’ conference, Bishop He added that there was no news as 300-foot spire. Authorities said much of Heritage site, came from church leaders Eric Moulin-Beaufort of Reims, told the yet about the state of the cathedral’s his- the cathedral’s wooden interior was de- and governments around the world, in- Famille Chretienne weekly 16 the cathe- toric 8,000-pipe 18th-century organ, but stroyed and its masonry was seriously cluding Donald Tusk, European Coun- dral also represented “national unity dur- said he still hoped it could be preserved scorched. cil president, who said April 16 that he ing all tests,” and would be “an immense after lengthy repairs. The La Croix daily newspaper re-