Churches Become Centers for Aid, Prayer After Widespread Tornado Damage

MARCH 16, 2012 VOLUME 48, NUMBER 5

INSIDE: Page 5: Guadalupe highlights WYD Page 8: Virtue gathers high school seniors Pages 14-16: District basketball and swimming, state wrestling

The Church on Intimate Love: Healthy Soul, Healthy Body The Catholic Witness presents in this edi- tion “The Church on Intimate Love: Healthy Soul, Healthy Body,” a special insert on the Church’s teachings on love, marriage and childbearing. The educational tool, found on pages 9-12, features materials on Church teaching regarding contraception; the tran- script of a roundtable discussion with obstetricians and gynecologists at Holy Spirit Hospital’s Center for Women’s Health; and information regarding Natural Family Plan- ning. The insert was produced in conjunction with the Diocesan Offices of the Vicar Gen- eral, Respect Life Activities, Family Min- istries and Religious Education. Materials from this special insert will also be available CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS online at www.hbgdiocese.org. Churches Become Centers for Aid, Prayer after Widespread Tornado Damage

Catholic News Service come a natural staging area for relief efforts, com- center as bases for people trying to put their lives munity organizing and prayer. back together. As one of the few buildings in town to come Four days after a devastating tornado hit, volun- The town of about 1,600 was one of several in the through intense storms March 2 nearly intact, St. teers and professionals used St. Xavier, the nearby region to be largely destroyed by a wave of storms Francis Xavier Church in Henryville, Ind., has be- Henryville Community Church and a community that created dozens of tornadoes across 11 states March 2 and 3. At least 39 people were killed, including one in Clark County, where Henryville and nearby Marys- ville took direct hits. Deaths also were reported in Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama and Ohio. Substantial damage dotted those states as well as Georgia, North Carolina, Illinois, Mississippi, Virginia and South Carolina. Tracy Guernsey, the staff nurse at Henryville’s public school complex, was among about 40 people still in the building when the tornado hit. She told Catho- lic News Service in a March 5 phone interview that if classes hadn’t been dismissed early in the face of the advancing storm, the death toll in Henryville would have been dramatic. She said she and about 15 other people emerged from her office to find the whole second floor of the school had been ripped off. Inside, the papers on her desk were undisturbed. The tornado hit at the normal dismissal time of 3 p.m., Guernsey said. “The bus drivers were the heroes here. If they hadn’t sent the buses out early, it would’ve been a different story.” Also reeling were parishioners of St. Luke Catho- lic Church in Salyersville, Ky., which was destroyed by another tornado in the same weather front. There, parishioner Helen Pennington was working in the church basement as the twister approached. Two car- fuls of people passing through the area asked to seek shelter and joined her in safety while the structure CNS/JIM YOUNG, REUTERS above was flattened. A man helps clear debris from the ruins of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Ridgway, Ill., March 1. The church, Six buildings – the church, the rectory, an outreach built in 1894, was destroyed just after 5 a.m. Feb. 29 by a tornado that tore through the small southern Illinois town. More TORNADO, page 7 2 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, MARCH 16, 2012

Faith and Life Pennsylvania Bishops Call What Does the Church Really Teach for Day of Prayer and about Health Care Reform? Fasting for Religious Liberty By Victoria Laskowski clear guidelines that continue to be a blue- Special to The Witness print for their current efforts. The bishops of Pennsylvania have declared Friday, March 30, “We believe that the reform of the health The ongoing flurry of debate over issues care system which is truly fundamental and 2012, as a day of prayer, fasting and abstinence for the preser- related to healthcare may have obscured the vation of religious liberty. The text of the Bishops’ statement an- enduring must be rooted in values that reflect Church’s long-held support of comprehen- the essential dignity of each person, ensure nouncing this special effort is printed below, and is also available sive health care reform. So here is a review. that basic human rights are protected, and online at www.hbgdiocese.org/conscience and www.pacatholic. Jesus Christ was our earliest and best mod- recognize the unique needs and claims of el and advocate for health care. Indeed, the org with a host of materials on religious liberty. the poor.” In light of this, the Bishops cited “Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Church’s participation from its earliest days in health care has been motivated by the ex- eight criteria for health care reform: The assault by the federal government on constitutionally guar- ample and teaching of Jesus. Health care reform must preserve and en- anteed religious liberty continues. Our concern and alarm flows The U.S. Catholic Bishops reflected on this hance the sanctity and dignity of human life from a mandate of the Department of Health and Human Services in their 1981 document, Health Care for All: from conception to natural death. (HHS) which punishes the Church for its firmly held beliefs and “Jesus used this power in a very personal and Any health care system must show a prior- consistent teaching. This mandate – published in the federal regis- concrete way. He touched others and there- ity concern for the poor. ter without change, despite claims of “accommodations” – would by brought them health and wholeness. He There must be universal access to compre- force Catholic employers to pay for abortion-causing drugs, ster- cured the leper (see Mt 8:1-4), gave sight to hensive health care for every person living in ilization and contraception. the blind (see Mt. 9:27-31) and enabled the the United States. lame to walk (see Lk. 5:17-26). On these and Health care should be comprehensive and Some falsely suggest that the HHS mandate is about contracep- numerous other occasions, Jesus dramatized provide preventative care, treatment of dis- tion. This is primarily about religious liberty and our First Amend- the importance of healing in his mission. He ease and injury, and palliative care for the ment rights to the free exercise of our religion. Make no mistake relieved suffering and ‘cured all who were chronically ill or dying. about it – this government mandate is a step which will inevitably afflicted’ (Mt. 8:16). He demonstrated that Health care must allow for pluralism and lead to other mandates that continue to strike at the heart of our illness could be an occasion to prove God’s ensure respect for religious and ethical val- Faith and the constitutional liberties we have been guaranteed. love for his people and not a sign of punish- ues in the delivery of health care for con- The mandate cannot stand – it must not stand! ment. The life that Jesus came to give was sumers and for individual and institutional not in fact to end with death. He asserted em- This same mandate also, alarmingly, purports to tell churches providers. phatically: ‘I am the resurrection and the life: Health care should be of high quality. what type of activities the government thinks are religious. Catho- whoever believes in me, though he should lic schools, hospitals, nursing homes and Catholic charities do not die, will come to life’ (Jn. 11 :25-26).” Any health care system must have a meth- qualify for a religious exemption. Why? Because they serve non- Jesus did not simply heal the person, he od for cost containment and controls. Catholics. Under the government’s view, Jesus and his disciples healed the soul. “Through his life and min- Health care should be delivered and fi- nanced equitably based on ability to pay. would have been deemed not religious enough. We have entered istry he proclaimed the kingdom of God on When the current conversation about dangerous territory – the government is defining religion and lim- earth and reached out to touch and to heal our health care began in 2009, the Bishops re- iting its practice. This is an unprecedented and gross infringement wounded humanity. He came to the world to make us fully human, to help us to realize framed these guidelines in their Labor Day on our religious freedom. We did not pick this fight, but neither our human dignity as creatures made in the message, as delivered by Bishop William will we run from it. image of God. He came to bring the fullness Murphy of Rockville Center. Health care Religious liberty does not belong to the Democrats or Repub- of life.” must reflect these principles: licans, it belongs to all Americans. Long before these mandates In light of Jesus’ healing ministry and in It must be universal and respect life and were issued, the bishops in the United States worked for health consideration of many earlier writings on so- human dignity. care reform and universal coverage that respects all human life cial justice, Health Care for All went on to It must be accessible to all with a special from conception to natural death and includes language to pro- set these guiding principles for health care concern for the poor. policy: adequate health care is a human tect religious conscience and practice of all citizens. Our fervent Any new system must pursue the common right; pluralism of resources (public, private, good and “preserve pluralism including free- entreaties were answered with promises that we had nothing to voluntary, religious and non-profit) is essen- fear. We cannot now sit idly by and let this happen. We cannot, dom of conscience and variety of options”. tial; prevention is an important element of It must contain costs and be provided equi- as a Church, be silent because some have sought to politicize our health care; consumers should have a reason- tably based on ability to pay. able choice of providers; uniform standards plight. Please visit www.pacatholic.org to send a message to your Speaking in November 2010 to the Pontifi- are an essential element of the health care legislators in support of conscience rights. Our voices and yours cal Council for Health Care Ministry, Pope must be heard. The mandate must be rescinded. Our freedom and system; and cost containment is necessary. The Bishops went on in their 1981 docu- Benedict XVI taught clearly, “It is neces- liberty must be preserved. And in this effort, we must remain ment to call for a universal health insurance sary to work with greater commitment at all steadfast. program to guarantee access to basic health levels so that the right to health is rendered Throughout history, Catholics in times of need have turned care for all Americans. They also stated that effective, favoring access to primary health to God through prayer and fasting, as these practices allow us Catholic health care systems had been and care.” He also cautioned, “In our time we to grow closer to the Lord, inspire us to do His will and invoke would continue to fulfill a “prophetic role” witness on one hand a care of health that His protection in answer to our prayers. During the Fridays of in the area of health care. risks being transformed into pharmacologi- Lent, the faithful are obliged to abstain from eating meat. On Ash When a major government initiative for cal consumerism, medical and surgical, be- Wednesday and Good Friday, Catholics are also asked to fast – health care reform began in 1993, the Bish- coming almost a cult of the body, and on the ops issued Comprehensive Health Care Re- other, the difficulty of millions of persons to eating only one full meal, and, if necessary, two much smaller form and restated their ongoing support for accede to conditions of minimal subsistence meals – to aid our spiritual life. such an effort: and indispensable medicines to be cured.” Recognizing the efficacy of prayer and fasting as well as the “Our approach to health care is shaped by Benedict XVI went on to say that “…an challenges we face in overcoming the recent attack on our reli- a simple but fundamental principle: ‘Every integral part of each one’s existence and of gious freedom, we, the Bishops of Pennsylvania, request that all person has a right to adequate health care. the common good, is to establish a true dis- Catholics dedicate the regular Lenten Friday practice of prayer This right flows from the sanctity of human tributive justice that guarantees to all, on the and abstinence as well as the additional practice of fasting on Fri- life and the dignity that belongs to all human basis of objective needs, adequate care. Con- persons, who are made in the image of God.’ day, March 30, to the preservation of religious liberty. On that sequently, the world of health cannot be sub- Health care is more than a commodity; it is a tracted from the moral rules that should gov- day, offer your sacrifice for the cause of religious liberty, that the basic human right, an essential safeguard of ern it so that it will not become inhuman.” Church may be granted the basic right to practice what she preach- human life and dignity. We believe our peo- es, and for our political leaders, that their eyes may be opened to ple’s health care should not depend on where Although the words of the message have the rights of all Americans, including those of faith. We will join they work, how much their parents earn, or varied slightly over the years, the message has remained the same. The Church will con- with the over 3 million Catholics in Pennsylvania to mark this day where they live. Our constant teaching that tinue its ongoing commitment to universal of prayer, fasting and abstinence for religious liberty. each human life must be protected and hu- health care that respects life and human dig- As we continue on our Lenten journey, we know the Lord walks man dignity promoted leads us to insist that all people have a right to health care. This nity while preserving freedom of conscience with us during times of trial and concern. Let us do all that we are right is explicitly affirmed inPacem in Terris for all people of faith. This is a cornerstone able – prayer, fasting, abstinence and the exercise of faithful citi- [Pope John XXIII, 1963] and is the founda- of the Gospel message. zenship – to uphold the freedoms of Christ’s Church and to grow tion of our advocacy for health care reform.” (Victoria Laskowski is the Diocesan Direc- closer to Him.” In their statement, the Bishops also set tor of the Office of Family Ministries.) MARCH 16, 2012, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 3

Local Church News St. Monica School in Sunbury to Close Diocesan Press Release we must also acknowledge that it is no longer af- ministrator, “Everyone has worked very hard to fordable for us.” give us this excellent educational program. We St. Monica School in Sunbury will close at the Bishop McFadden, in his letter to Father Cramer, have a wonderful school community of staff, vol- end of the current school year. This decision was remarked, “This decision is very difficult for me to unteers and parents. The decision to close is no made by the pastor, Father Donald W. Cramer, af- make, having visited the school and knowing its one’s fault. It is about being realistic.” ter consultation with his parish advisory groups history. However, I know that it is painful as well Consideration was given to alternative structures including the Board of Education, Parish Pasto- for you and your parishioners in making the rec- such as having the school be a primary school or ral Council and Finance Council. A review of the ommendations.” middle school or become regionalized with other school operations began three years ago at the re- The bishop pledged his continued assistance and parishes. It was determined that such an adjust- quest of then-Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades. prayers for all affected by the decision. During his ment would still not change the demographic and Bishop Joseph P. McFadden granted his permis- visit to St. Monica School earlier in the year, Bish- economic conditions the school is experiencing. sion to close the school, in response to a letter from op McFadden saw that many have sacrificed their Enrollment would not be increased and would only Father Cramer. The bishop’s permission is required time, talent and treasure to maintain the school up serve to spread the debt that was being created. when a parish is considering the closure of a school to the present moment and was deeply grateful for The school and the Diocesan Education Office because of the responsibility the Church has in the what they have accomplished. will work with the families of current students to formation of young people in the faith. Every ef- School operations have caused the parish debt to help them transition to other opportunities for a fort is made to keep Catholic education as widely double in each of the past three years as the parish Catholic education. St. Joseph School in Danville available as possible to the faithful of the diocese. is obligated to cover the operational deficits of the and Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School in Coal Catholic schools must be unfailingly Catholic, aca- school. The current parish debt is nearly $558,000. Township are alternatives for many of the students demically excellent, and realistically affordable The combination of a poor economic environment now enrolled at St. Monica. Open houses and in- not only to the parents but to the entire parish. and a generally declining population, specifically formational meetings at these schools will be an- In his letter, Father Cramer said, “St. Monica of school age children, are at the root of the situa- nounced in the near future. School has been a blessing to our parish and to the tion. There are not enough school-age children in The diocesan offices will be coordinating details Susquehanna Valley for over 62 years, with a com- the parish or surrounding area to make the school that are needed to end operations of a parish school mitment to scholarship and Christian values in a financially viable. program, as well as assisting school staff members supportive family-like environment. Unfortunately According to Mrs. Susan Bickhart, School Ad- during this difficult time of transition.

To report suspected abuse of a minor, call the toll free PA Child Abuse Hotline: March 16 – Confirmation for York Deanery, St. Patrick Church, 1-800-932-0313 York, 5:30 p.m. To report suspected March 18 – Confirmation for York Deanery, St. Joseph Church, abuse of a minor by a Dallastown, 11:30 a.m. church official, March 19 – Mass & Pastoral Visit, St. Joseph School, York, employee or volunteer, 9 a.m.; Confirmation for Cumberland/Perry Deanery, St. also please call the Joseph Church, diocesan toll free hotline: Mechanicsburg, 5:30 p.m. March 20 – Closing of Forty Hours, Our Lady of Mount 1-800-626-1608 Carmel Church, Mount Carmel, 7 p.m. March 21 – Confirmation for Cumberland/Perry Dean- ery, Good Shepherd Church, Camp Hill, 5:30 p.m. March 23 – Live Radio Rosary for HHS reversal, Holy Family Radio, noon.; Confirmation for York Deanery, St. Scout Training John the Baptist Church, New Freedom, 5:30 p.m. The National Catholic Committee on Scouting (NCCS) Region March 24 – Mass at Saint Patrick Cathedral, Harrisburg, 10 a.m.; Harrisburg St. Patrick’s Day Parade, 2 p.m. 3 is providing basic training for new and existing diocesan lead- March 25 – Confirmation for Cumberland/Perry ers, committee members, parish youth ministers, catechists, BSA Deanery, Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Enola, 11 a.m. professionals and unit leaders who would like to learn more about March 26 – Confirmation for York Deanery, St. Rose of how Catholic Scouting can enhance religious programs and grow Lima Church, York, 5:30 p.m. new Scouting units. March 28 – Confirmation for Lebanon Deanery, St. Cecilia Church, Lebanon, 5:30 p.m. For more information, go to the Diocesan Catholic Scouting web- March 30 – Confirmation for Lebanon Deanery, Assumption page at www.hbgdiocese.org/youngchurch, e-mail August Pfeifer at BVM Church, Lebanon, 5:30 p.m. [email protected] or call him at 717-657-4804, 327.

Diocese Thanked for Contributions

Bishop Joseph P. McFadden has recently received a letter of thanks from Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, Secretary of State, for the $136,505.10 that the people of the Diocese of Harrisburg contributed to the 2011 Peter’s Pence Col- lection. The Peter’s Pence Collection supports the pope’s phi- lanthropy by giving the Holy Father the means to provide emergency assistance to those in need because of natural disaster, war, oppression, and disease. In his letter to Bishop McFadden, Cardinal Bertone wrote, “His Holiness is grateful for this charitable donation and for the sacrifice which is required. He thanks you and your people for this expression of your devotion to the Successor of Peter and your desire to cooperate in the works of his ministry.” 4 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, MARCH 16, 2012

Local Church News Some $233,000 Given HHS Mandate: in EITC Scholarships The More It Changes, Several area schools – including Bishop McDevitt High School in Harrisburg, Trinity High School in The More It Stays the Same Camp Hill and St. Patrick School in Carlisle – were among the re- By Joelle Shea changed nothing for them. cipients of $233,535 in EITC Special to The Witness Fixes for this problem could come scholarships given during two recent presentations. in the form of legislative correction Since the announcement of the via The Respect for Rights of Con- Bridge Educational Foundation Department of Health and Human and its donors – Aegis Security In- science Act (S 1467 and HR 1179), Services mandate that would force surance, M&T Bank, Novinger’s, litigation that overturns the mandate Rent-A-Center and Schaedler religious employers to violate their Yesco – presented $209,420 in consciences and pay for abortion- or a change in the rule by HHS. scholarships for Harrisburg area causing drugs, sterilization and con- On March 1, a vote was taken on families Feb. 22. The scholar- the “Blunt Amendment,” which con- ships will help families with chil- traception, much misinformation has dren attending several Harrisburg been bantered about regarding health tained the text of the Respect for schools, including Bishop McDe- care, Catholic Church teaching and Rights of Conscience Act. Both Sen- vitt High School. the impact this new regulation will ator Toomey and Senator Casey vot- Bishop Joseph P. McFadden and State Secretary of Education ultimately have. ed to uphold religious liberty. How- Ron Tomalis attended the Feb. 22 On February 10, the Obama Ad- ever, with a final vote of 51-48, the presentation to show their support ministration announced some “ac- amendment did not pass. Next, HR for the EITC program. School of- Students from St. Patrick School in Carlisle ex- commodations” to the original rule, 1179 will be considered in the House, ficials and families also attended but, by the end of the day, the original the event and thanked the busi- press their appreciation for EITC scholarships and it already has nearly 220 cospon- ness donors and the state officials presented to their school. rule was published without change. sors. A strong vote in the House will Promises were made that more regu- for their support of the EITC pro- help advance the cause of religious gram. “Education is a crucial component for lations might be developed, but the Peter Gleason, Chairman of the Bridge building the future, so investing in to- “accommodations,” if made, will still liberty. Please consider contacting Educational Foundation, remarked, day’s students is really an investment in force religious employers to pay for Senator Casey and Senator Toomey “School choice is once again a hot topic the future. We are pleased to have the op- to thank them for their vote, and con- in Harrisburg. For the last decade the portunity to participate at a greater level abortion-causing drugs, sterilization EITC program has successfully partnered this year,” said Tom Earley of M&T Bank. and contraception – either directly or tact your congressmen and women to parents and the business community to “Through these scholarship grants, stu- through money paid to an insurance ask for their support and co-sponsor- provide school choice through scholar- dents will experience educational oppor- company. ship of HR 1179. ships. EITC scholarships, like the ones tunities they might have missed otherwise. announced here today, provide parents And that makes for a brighter future.” Further, the vast majority of Penn- You can contact your legislator via with educational opportunities for their Pennsylvania’s EITC (Educational Im- sylvania’s dioceses and Catholic www.pacatholic.org or www.hbgdio- children. These opportunities would not provement Tax Credit) program allows Charities agencies are self-insured, cese.org/conscience or by calling the exist without the EITC. We thank our do- businesses to claim a state tax credit for meaning they are both the employer capitol switchboard at 202-224-3121. nors for participating in this program and scholarship donations made to founda- and insurer. Despite the fact that the helping to educate Pennsylvania’s future tions and organizations. Information Do not be confused: religious lib- workforce.” about the EITC program can be found on Church raised this issue throughout erty now and for the future is at stake On March 8, M&T Bank, working with the Web site of the Pennsylvania Catholic the debate dating back to July 2011, in this debate. Will you stand up for the Bridge Educational Foundation, pre- the clear violation of conscience for Conference at www.pacatholic.org or on our first amendment right to exercise sented $24,115 in EITC scholarships to the Web site of the Diocese of Harrisburg self-insured religious institutions three Cumberland County Schools, in- by clicking on “Giving/Development” and was not addressed in the “accommo- freely our religion – both on Sundays cluding Trinity High School and St. Pat- then “Neumann Scholarship Foundation.” dations.” Therefore, most of Penn- at Mass AND the rest of the week? rick School. School officials and students Information on the Bridge Educational (Shea is Outreach Director of the attended the event, which was held at St. Foundation can be found at www.bridg- sylvania’s dioceses and Catholic Patrick School. eedu.org. Charities agencies will be required Pennsylvania Catholic Conference – to directly pay for medications and the public affairs arm of Pennsylva- procedures that violate their religious nia’s Catholic bishops and the Cath- beliefs. The “accommodations” have olic dioceses of Pennsylvania.)

Update on Legislation Both Senator Toomey and Senator Casey voted in favor of the Blunt Amendment, which mirrored the language in SB 1467. The final vote was 51-48. However, the amendment was ultimately tabled. The next vote will take place in the House of Rep- resentatives. Pennsylvania Cosponsors on the Respect for Rights of Conscience Act: SB 1467 Sen. Pat Toomey

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BRIDGE EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION HR 1179 Bishop Joseph P. McFadden joins representatives of Bishop McDevitt High Rep. Jason Altmire (D- Allegheny, Butler, Beaver, Lawrence, Mercer, School in Harrisburg during a recent EITC check presentation benefitting several Westmoreland) Harrisburg area schools. Rep. Lou Barletta (R - Columbia, Carbon, Monroe, Luzerne, Lackwanna) Rep. Mark Critz (D - Allegheny, Armstrong, Cambria, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, The Catholic Witness Somerset, Washington, Westmoreland) OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF HARRISBURG Rep. Michael Fitzpatrick (R - Bucks, Montgomery, Philadelphia) Most Rev. Joseph P. McFadden Rep. Jim Gerlach (R -Berks, Chester, Lehigh, Montgomery) Publisher Rep. Mike Kelly (R -Armstrong, Butler, Crawford, Erie, Mercer, Venango, Warren) Telephone Jennifer Reed Rep. Tom Marino (R – Bradford, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Lycoming, Montour, Managing Editor 717-657-4804 ext. 201 Northumberland, Pike, Snyder, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Tioga, Union, Wayne, Wyoming) FAX 717-657-7673 Staff Rep. Patrick Meehan (R – Delaware, Chester, Berks) Email: [email protected] Chris Heisey Emily M. Albert Susan Huntsberger Rep. Tim Murphy (R -Allegheny, Beaver, Washington, Westmoreland) Website: www.hbgdiocese.org Rep. Todd Platts (R- Adams, Cumberland, York) Yearly Subscriptions: $8.17 per family, derived from The Catholic Witness (ISSN 0008-8447, USPS 557 120) is published biweekly Rep. Bill Shuster (R- Bedford, Blair, Huntingdon, Fayette, Indiana, Perry, diocesan revenues from the parishes. except Christmas/New Year and July by the Harrisburg Catholic Publishing Other subscriptions: $24.00 Cumberland, Franklin, Fulton, Summerset, Cambria, Mifflin, Juniata) Association, 4800 Union Deposit Road, Harrisburg, PA 17111 3710. Periodicals Moving? Send us the address label postage paid at Harrisburg, PA. Rep. Glenn Thompson (R- Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clinton, Elk, Forest, from The Catholic Witness plus your Jefferson, Juniata, McKean, Mifflin, Potter, Clearfield, Crawford, Lycoming, Tioga, NEW address including zip code +4. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Warren, Venango) Please allow three weeks for the The Catholic Witness, 4800 Union Deposit Road, Harrisburg, PA 17111-3710. change. MARCH 16, 2012, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 5

Catholic Culture For Diocesan Pilgrims, World Youth Day 2013 Will Commence with Pilgrimage to Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe By Jen Reed World Youth Day. “It’s important for our The Catholic Witness young people to see others from different cultures and different countries, to realize For a majority of the nearly 225 dioc- they are not alone in trying to be disciples esan youth who journeyed to World Youth of the Lord.” Day in Spain in August 2011, a highlight The Diocesan Office of Youth and Young of the faith-filled pilgrimage was a retreat Adult Ministry is currently accepting regis- in Lourdes, France, prior to their days in trations for World Youth Day, July 20-29, Madrid. 2013. The retreat – where pilgrims visited the Grotto where the Blessed Mother appeared Experiencing the Story to St. Bernadette – offered a blessed oppor- The Virgin of Guadalupe first appeared tunity for reflection and catechesis prior to to Juan Diego, an Aztec peasant, on Dec. the World Youth Day festivities. 9, 1531, on a hill in the Tepeyac desert near Mexico City, instructing him to build a With that in mind, the diocese’s World church where they stood. Youth Day pilgrimage to Rio de Janeiro, When Juan Diego told the local bishop of Brazil, in July 2013 will commence in the apparition, the bishop asked for proof. similar fashion – with a retreat at the Ba- Juan Diego returned to the hill, where the silica of Our Lady of Guadalupe and its Blessed Mother appeared again and in- surrounding spiritual sites in Mexico. structed him to collect the roses growing Like the retreat in Lourdes, spending there, though it was winter. Juan Diego time in Mexico “will be a good opportunity gathered the flowers in his cloak, and when for our young people to again be where the he presented them to the bishop, an imprint Blessed Mother has appeared, and to ask of the Blessed Mother appeared where the PHOTOS COURTESY OF VIRGINIA PEREIRA her to help us appreciate more fully the gift flowers had been. of her son,” said Bishop Joseph P. McFad- The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, which housed Juan Diego’s tilma until it The image from Juan Diego’s cloak is was moved into the more modern Basilica nearby. den, who will lead diocesan youth on the displayed in the modern Basilica of Our pilgrimage. “Then, when we get to Rio de Lady of Guadalupe (built next to the still- Janeiro, we will be able to recognize more standing historic one). According to sev- Adult Ministry, traveled to the Basilica of Americas and the Protector of the Unborn. fully Jesus present in our midst.” eral scientists and photographers who have Our Lady of Guadalupe earlier this year Bishop McFadden remarked that World Initiated in 1985 by Blessed John Paul inspected the image, the eyes of Our Lady as part of an educational trip hosted by the Youth Day will give young people an op- II, World Youth Day brings together Catho- reflect an image of Juan Diego. Mexican Tourism Office and Regina Tours, portunity to grow in their faith and in their lic youth from across the globe for days of The grounds surrounding the Basilica and was spiritually moved by her experi- knowledge of God. prayer, worship, catechesis and camarade- feature numerous chapels, statues, walking ences there. “Hopefully, as they prepare physically rie. It is celebrated in a different country paths and markers indicating the Blessed “You could feel the presence of our and materially for the pilgrimage, they are every two to three years. Mother’s appearances to Juan Diego, who Blessed Mother everywhere you went. You “It is important that we recognize the was canonized in 2002 and is buried in a could feel and hear the story of her appear- also preparing spiritually to encounter the great gift we have in being followers of chapel there. ance to Juan Diego,” she said. Risen Lord among his people,” he said. Jesus, and our need to come together in Virginia Pereira, Associate Director of Mrs. Pereira said that diocesan pilgrims “We’ll have opportunities before World our expression of that,” the bishop said of the Diocesan Office of Youth and Young will be able to experience the deep faith of Youth Day to pray together and celebrate the Mexican people, and the story of Our the Eucharist so that we encounter the Lord Lady of Guadalupe, the Patroness of the on our journey.”

World Youth Day, July 20-29 2013 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil ‘Go and make disciples of all nations’ - Matthew 28: 19 Bishop Joseph P. McFadden invites you to join him and our Holy Father at World Youth Day 2013 in Rio de Janeiro, Bra- zil. The spiritual pilgrimage will include a two day retreat experience in Guadalupe, Mexico, and the World Youth Day activities in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The Dioc- esan group will be limited to 200 pilgrims within the ages of 16-17 (youth) and their parish group leaders and chaperones; On the grounds surrounding the Ba- young adults ages 18 (high school gradu- silica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is an ates)-35; priests, seminarians and consecrated individuals. For information on this intricate sculpture of Aztecs and Span- wonderful spiritual pilgrimage, please contact the Office for Youth and Young Adult Ministry at 717-657-4804 ext. 327, or [email protected], or visit our Web site ish missionaries bringing offerings to at www.hbgdiocese.org/youngchurch. Please be advised that seating is limited, and Our Lady of Guadalupe. first round of deposits are due by May 31, 2012. “The Same Divine Calling” A Mass Celebrating the Gifts of People with Disabilities

Saturday, April 14 at 5 p.m. St. Peter Church, 1840 Marshall Drive, Elizabethtown Bishop Joseph P. McFadden, Principal Celebrant

St. Peter Church is accessible to persons with physical disabilities. A sign language interpreter and assistive listening devices are available. Requests for materials in Braille and large print and other accommodations should be made to Kate Neri at 717-657-4804, ext. 317 on or before April 1. 6 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, MARCH 16, 2012

World and National News Church Must Better Explain Teaching on Sexuality, Pope Tells U.S. Bishops

By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service Permissive attitudes toward sex, cohabitation before marriage and acceptance of same-sex marriage can damage individuals and are harmful for society, Pope Benedict XVI told a group of U.S. bishops at the Vatican. “It is in fact increasingly evident that a weakened appreciation of the indissolubility of the marriage covenant, and the widespread rejection of a responsible, mature sexual ethic grounded in the practice of chastity, have led to grave societal problems bearing an immense human and economic cost,” the pope said March 9. Meeting the bishops of Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota, who were making their “ad limina” visits to report on the status of their dioceses, the pope said ignorance of or challenges to Church teaching on marriage and sexuality were part of the “intellectual and ethical challenges” to evangelization in the United States today. The pope did not focus on current tensions between the U.S. bishops and the Obama administration, particularly over health care coverage of contraception and other practices that violate church teaching. But at the beginning of his speech, Pope Benedict reiterated his concern about “threats to freedom of conscience, religion and worship which need to be CNS/L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO addressed urgently so that all men and women of Pope Benedict XVI greets Archbishop John C. Nienstedt of St. Paul and Minneapolis during a March 8 meeting with bishops from Minnesota on their “ad limina” visits to the Vatican. faith, and the institutions they inspire, can act in ac- cordance with their deepest moral convictions.” the surest guarantee of intergenerational solidarity dioceses asking to be married in the Church. Concentrating his remarks on the need to promote and the health of society as a whole.” “We cannot overlook the serious pastoral problem and explain church teaching on sexuality, the pope The moral virtues espoused in the church’s teach- presented by the widespread practice of cohabita- said the Church’s key concern is “the good of chil- ing on sexuality are “the key to human fulfillment,” tion, often by couples who seem unaware that it is dren, who have a fundamental right to grow up with he said, because they promote sexuality as “a source gravely sinful, not to mention damaging to the sta- a healthy understanding of sexuality and its proper of genuine freedom, happiness and the fulfillment bility of society,” Pope Benedict said. place in human relationships.” of our fundamental and innate human vocation to The pope said that in responding to situations in Acknowledging the clerical sexual abuse scandal, love.” which many engaged couples already are living the pope said, “It is my hope that the Church in the “The richness of this vision is more sound and together, there must be “clear pastoral and liturgi- United States, however chastened by the events of appealing than the permissive ideologies exalted in cal norms for the worthy celebration of matrimony the past decade, will persevere in its historic mis- some quarters,” which are “powerful and destruc- which embody an unambiguous witness to the ob- sion of educating the young and thus contribute to tive,” he said. jective demands of Christian morality, while show- the consolidation of that sound family life, which is One of the first steps, he said, must be to help ing sensitivity and concern for young couples.” Catholics “recover an appreciation of the virtue of Pope Benedict did not suggest specific norms or chastity,” which forms the human heart to love in provide guidance on how insistent priests should be the most authentic way. that cohabitating couples live separately before a Harrisburg Diocesan Pope Benedict told the bishops he was aware of Church wedding. Council of Catholic Women “the powerful political and cultural currents seek- The Church itself “must acknowledge deficiencies th ing to alter the legal definition of marriage” so that in the catechesis of recent decades, which failed at 87 Annual Convention it would include same-sex couples. times to communicate the rich heritage of Catholic “The Church’s conscientious effort to resist this teaching on marriage as a natural institution elevated “Love in Action” pressure calls for a reasoned defense of marriage by Christ to the dignity of a sacrament, the vocation April 23 at the Cardinal Keeler Center as a natural institution,” which is “rooted in the of Christian spouses in society and in the Church, complementarity of the sexes and oriented to pro- and the practice of marital chastity,” he said. in Harrisburg creation,” he said. The speech was the pope’s third address to groups “Sexual differences cannot be dismissed as irrel- of U.S. bishops making their “ad limina” visits in Mass Celebrated by evant to the definition of marriage,” the pope said. 2011-2012. Because the pope is not delivering a for- Bishop Joseph P. Mc- Defending traditional marriage is not simply a mal talk to each of the 15 groups of visiting U.S. Fadden, Exhibits and matter of Church teaching, he said; it is a matter bishops, the Vatican said the March 9 speech also Raffles, Prayer Shawl of “justice, since it entails safeguarding the good of was addressed to bishops from Indiana, Illinois, Displays, Infant and the entire human community and Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri, Nebras- Toddler Clothing “It is in fact increasingly ka and Kansas. Collection, Dona- the rights of parents and children alike.” evident that a weakened Archbishop John C. Nienstedt of tions for Hispanic St. Paul and Minneapolis, speaking Apostolate/Migrant Pope Benedict praised the U.S. appreciation of the on behalf of the bishops, thanked Ministry, Luncheon, bishops’ 2009 letter, “Marriage: indissolubility of the Pope Benedict for announcing a spe- Fair Trade and Religious Love and Life in the Divine Plan,” marriage covenant, and cial Year of Faith, which will begin Items Sale and he asked them to continue re- the widespread rejection in October. Morning Keynote Speaker: Father Leo E. Patal- viewing and strengthening both “There is a profound crisis of faith inghug, author of “Grace Before Meals: Recipes religious education materials and of a responsible, mature affecting large numbers of people in for Family Life,” and a member of the faculty at marriage preparation programs. sexual ethic grounded Mount St. Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg, Md. in the practice of today’s society,” the archbishop said. In conversations with the bishops “Secular values have taken hold in Afternoon Speaker: Robert Rogers, a husband during the “ad limina” visits, he chastity, have led to and father who lost his entire family in a flash many minds and hearts, causing a said, some of the bishops have ex- grave societal problems rejection of the very notion that true flood, and who speaks about his faith in Christ pressed concern about how difficult though this adversity. bearing an immense human happiness is found in con- it is to communicate the Church’s Registration fee is $25. Reservation deadline is human and forming our lives to the will of God.” teaching effectively and some have April 9. For a registration form, contact Debbie economic cost.” He thanked Pope Benedict for “the told the pope there are decreasing Black at [email protected] or 717-514-8815. ~ Pope Benedict XVI extraordinary leadership that you are numbers of young people in their providing in these turbulent times.” MARCH 16, 2012, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 7

World and National News

the church’s roof, of the power and parishes in southern Illinois, including Tornado the church came awe-inspiring ac- St. Mary and St. Joseph, where Mass through the tor- Donations to tion of the body of was to have been celebrated. Continued from 1 nado largely un- the Victims Christ.” Father Beatty read a letter from Bel- scathed. Father Mario leville Bishop Edward K. Braxton and ministry, a storage building, grotto If you would like to donate and picnic shelter – previously stood Just 24 hours af- Tizziani, pastor of the former pastor, Father Mark Stec, on the parish grounds. After the storm, ter Tom Nolot and to the victims of the torna- St. Cecilia Parish both of whom reminded the congre- only the locked door of office manager a crew of volun- dos, checks may be sent to St. in Independence, gation that the Church is really “the Benedictine Sister Jan Barthel’s office teers stopped pre- Michael, 101 St. Michael Drive, said five families people of God,” not the buildings, no and its adjoining wall were left stand- paring for a Friday Charlestown, IN 47111. Checks in the parish sus- matter how beautiful they are or how ing atop the church’s basement foun- night fish fry to should be made payable to St. tained total or sig- long they have stood as the gathering dation. take shelter from Francis Xaiver, and indicated for nificant damage to place for worship. Father Bob Damron, pastor of St. the approaching tornado relief. their homes, barns Father Stec said, “What has not been Luke in Salyersville and St. Martha tornado, Nolot and or property. “That taken away from you is your ability to Church in Prestonsburg, reminded his his wife, Joyce, doesn’t sound like lift your hearts to God in prayer.” Fa- parishioners as they gathered for Mass were back -- fry- many,” he said. ther Beatty added, “We experience a on the weekend that the Church is a ing up the fish to feed rescue workers “But their families have also been range of emotions: gratitude that no community of people, not a building. and crews from the Indiana National affected and their friends and neigh- one was seriously hurt and grief at our He said St. Luke parishioners will Guard, the Clark County Sheriff’s Of- bors.” great loss.” meet for Mass in one another’s homes fice and other rescue workers and vol- Father Tizziani said the role of the Soon after the tornado rearranged until a new church is built. unteers. parish priest in responding to a crisis the landscape of Ridgway, blowing off Catholics from neighboring parishes Elsewhere in the Diocese of Lex- like this is manifold. “I came as a mes- roofs and using pieces of slate from – St. Martha; St. Michael, Paintsville ington, Ky., Prince of Peace Church senger of the love of the church and as the church roof as projectiles slicing and St. Francis, Pikeville – gathered in hard-hit West Liberty lost the roofs a messenger of Bishop [Roger J.] Foys, into homes blocks from the building, Saturday morning and afternoon to of both the rectory and the church, re- assuring those affected of the bishop’s volunteers began cleaning up. salvage what they could. ported Thomas F. Shaughnessy, dioc- and the Church’s prayers and support. Father Beatty said soon after the vol- Amazingly, the tabernacle was esan communications director and edi- I came as a shoulder to lean on and to unteers began making their way to the found with the Eucharist safely en- tor of Crossroads, its newspaper. minister to people as only a priest can church grounds, they made a circle to closed in the ciborium, even though In the Diocese of Covington, Ky., do. But I also came as a laborer. I was pray, Father Beatty told The Messen- the tabernacle was lying face down three parish communities were seri- wearing my collar but I was also wear- ger, Belleville’s diocesan newspaper. with its door open. Similarly, all the ously affected by the March 2 torna- ing jeans, and my work boots and coat. “St. Joseph Parish is still standing all vessels of sacred oils were found up- does, while another dozen or so par- I saw no harm in my carrying debris around me,” he said. “The whole com- right and unbroken. ishes reported pockets of damage to and cutting wood and pulling nails munity of faith here is the strongest At Sunday Mass at St. Francis Xavi- parishioner and neighborhood homes, because sometimes by our actions we I’ve ever seen. I would have said that er March 4, Father Steven Schaftlein, trees, livestock and other possessions. prove the love of Christ.” a week ago, and we’re stronger than pastor, said the church was “spared to Father Michael Barth, pastor of As- Just a few days earlier, another wave that [now].” be a symbol of hope and also to walk sumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary of tornadoes left 13 people dead in Il- Relief efforts included a special col- the talk. We’re praying here. That’s our Mission in Morning View, said he linois, Missouri and Tennessee and a lection taken up in the Archdiocese of first work. But underneath is the food, learned via a tweet that the church had trail of wreckage that appeared to be Indianapolis during weekend Masses the clothing that will help sustain the been flattened by a large tree. The de- the most substantial in Branson, Mo., and coordination of emergency assis- community in the months ahead.” stroyed church, dating from 1910 to and in Harrisburg and Ridgway, Ill., tance through the region’s Society of News video of the Mass showed the 1915, “was almost like a member of where the storm destroyed the entire St. Vincent de Paul and Catholic Char- back pews of the small church filled their family” for many parishioners, town, including St. Joseph Church. ities agencies. with cases of food and other supplies. the priest said. “We have so much to be thankful With Indianapolis farther from tor- By the next day, the entire building “While they certainly feel the loss of for today. I’m so glad to see all of you nado-afflicted region of Indiana than was filled with donated materials, re- their building, they were chipping in here, and safe,” Father Steven Beatty nearby Louisville, Ky., the Louisville- ported The Criterion, newspaper of to help parishioners cover their roofs told the congregation at Mass March 4 based Society of St. Vincent de Paul the Indianapolis Archdiocese, which with roof tarps and helping out right at St. Mary Church in Shawneetown, was seeking donations from area con- includes Henryville. and left,” he added. “They really kept Ill. He offered prayers for six Harris- ferences and channeling it through Aside from damage to the base- a wonderful focus on greater mat- burg residents who died in the tornado. Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in ment kitchen and some damage to ters as well. For myself it was a sign The priest is administrator of four New Albany, Ind. Petition Drive Launched on Same-Sex Marriage in Maryland

By George P. Matysek Jr. The Maryland Marriage Alliance will be work- a woman, open to the transmission of life.” Catholic News Service ing in churches, synagogues, mosques and other “To which all I can say is, ‘We’re doing our best, grass-roots organizations to promote the petition Holy Father,’ and we will not give up the effort,” Leaders of a petition drive to bring Maryland’s drive, Rev. McCoy said. said Cardinal O’Brien, apostolic administrator of recently passed same-sex marriage legislation to Last year, a bill legalizing same-sex marriage the Baltimore Archdiocese. A former Baltimore referendum expressed confidence they will collect passed in the Senate, but was returned to commit- archbishop, he is now pro-grand master of the more than the nearly 56,000 needed signatures to tee in the House of Delegates when there were not Equestrian Order (Knights) of the Holy Sepulcher put the issue on the November ballot. enough votes for passage. of Jerusalem, based in Rome. “You are going to find that in just a few short Gov. Martin J. O’Malley, a Catholic who spon- Mary Ellen Russell, executive director of the weeks, we are going to turn in not only the signa- sored this year’s legislation, helped win its passage Maryland Catholic Conference, told the Catholic tures,” said the Rev. Derek McCoy, leader of the in the House and Senate. He signed the measure Review, Baltimore archdiocesan newspaper, that Maryland Marriage Alliance, “but, ultimately, we into law March. 1. she will work to bring the same-sex marriage law are going to uphold [traditional marriage] for the After the measure’s passage and before the gov- to the people for a vote. citizens of Maryland.” ernor signed it into law, Cardinal Edwin F. O’Brien “I expect that the people of Maryland will be out- Rev. McCoy joined several members of the issued a written statement, saying: “Maryland’s raged at the manner in which this legislation has House of Delegates during a Feb. 29 news confer- politicians unconscionably have chosen political been rammed through the Legislature,” Russell ence in Annapolis outlining the goals of the peti- expediency over the good of society – the funda- tion drive. mental charge of their office – by daring to rede- said, “and that they will be all the more inspired to The Maryland Marriage Alliance, which has fine this sacred union between one man and one do everything necessary to ensure the opportunity partnered with the Maryland Catholic Conference, woman.” to vote in support of traditional marriage.” filed a petition with the Maryland Board of Elec- Calling it “radical legislation,” he said the law- The Senate passed the measure on a 25-22 vote tions Feb. 24 to be the official proponents of the makers’ action “poses a grave threat to the future after deliberating just 48 hours. The House of Del- referendum campaign against the same-sex mar- stability of the nuclear family and the society it an- egates had already approved the bill Feb. 17. riage legislation. Its website, marylandmarriageal- chors.” Rev. McCoy said out-of-state supporters of liance.com, will become the official site to obtain During his March 4 homily at his farewell Mass same-sex marriage have already poured more than petitions for the referendum. at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Balti- $500,000 into their lobbying efforts, and that they Maryland citizens will stand up against same-sex more, Cardinal O’Brien quoted from Pope Bene- will spend more to promote gay marriage before marriage, Rev. McCoy said, because they recog- dict XVI’s 2008 challenge to American bishops the expected referendum. nize the “intrinsic, fundamental value to society” to “proclaim boldly the arguments from faith and “We know that they are going to throw a lot of of maintaining the definition of marriage as being reason in favor of the institution of marriage under- money at it,” Rev. McCoy said, “and we’re going between one man and one woman. stood as a lifelong commitment between a man and to respond appropriately.” 8 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, MARCH 16, 2012

Faith and Life Virtual Conversations on Virtue: High School Seniors Join Bishop for Lenten Series By Jen Reed Giorgio Frassati. The Catholic Witness The Feb. 29 session featured a focus on virtue and Blessed John Paul II. York Catholic High School senior Chris- Pointing to the Catechism of the Catho- topher Campo says he didn’t recognize lic Church, Bishop McFadden explained to himself as a virtuous person – that is un- the students that “Virtue is an habitual and til he heard Bishop Joseph P. McFadden firm disposition to do the good.” speak on the subject. “Virtue is what develops in us when we Christopher and his classmates assem- actually use God’s gifts the way that he bled as a live audience for the first of the wants us to use them,” he said. bishop’s five-part series of Lenten conver- His messages to the students – to live sations with high school seniors Feb. 29 at virtuous lives, to use the gifts God has the Cardinal Keeler Center in Harrisburg. given them to do good, to develop their The York Catholic students were on re- character – resonated with them. treat at the Center that day, and joined the Several seniors from York Catholic ex- bishop in person as he spoke virtually with pressed that his words carried significant students across the diocese via the dioc- weight for them as they prepare to gradu- esan wide-area network. ate. “Whenever I thought of the word ‘vir- “The bishop didn’t specifically say it, tuous,’ I didn’t picture myself in that cat- but his message seemed to be about the egory until today, when the bishop spoke meaning of life, to live virtuously,” Doug- about it,” Christopher told The Catholic las Weichert said. Witness. “We’re preparing to step into a new life CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS “He connected virtue with being human ahead of us, and it’s good for us to hear York Catholic High School seniors Maura Schmidt, Adam DePorter and and striving to be like Jesus. The bishop from the bishop how we’re supposed to Christopher Campo present the gifts to Bishop Joseph P. McFadden during Mass pointed to the question, ‘What would Je- live life. He’s giving us a starting point for celebrated for their senior class at the Cardinal Keeler Center. During their retreat sus do?’ Even in Bible school, we’d always where we’re supposed to go in life,” Doug- in Harrisburg, the students formed a live audience for the bishop’s virtual Lenten hear that phrase. Now, it’s time to make las noted. conversations with high school seniors. that a lifestyle,” Christopher said. Senior Adam DePorter said he appreci- In his conversation with the seniors ated the bishop’s understanding of the sig- with us. It wasn’t one of fire and brim- them to develop their own identity, and of- through Lent, the bishop will speak about nificant and sometimes challenging choic- stone. His approach was, ‘I’m here to help ten connected his points to pop culture and several virtues and highlight saints who es he and his peers will make in life. you. Let me be relatable and teach what is sports. exemplified those virtues: prudence and “It’s securing to know that if we make good in a way that you can understand,’” “You could just tell by the way the bish- St. Dominic Savio; justice and Blessed Te- the little decisions, it will build our confi- he added. op was talking to us that he is so in touch resa of Calcutta; fortitude and St. Gianna dence to make the big ones,” Adam said. Throughout his conversation with the with the world today,” said Maura Schmidt. Molla; and temperance and Blessed Pier “I appreciated the bishop’s approach diocese’s seniors, the bishop encouraged “I think he does understand what we’re going through, and thinks back to those times when he was in high school so he can relate to us. He makes the topics he’s talking a bout Extolling the virtue of Blessed so relatable to what we’re experiencing.” John Paul II, Bishop Joseph Reflecting with the students on the virtue P. McFadden tells high school of Blessed John Paul II, Bishop McFadden seniors about the late pope pointed to the occasion on which the pope forgiving the man who shot him forgave the man who shot him at point-blank in St. Peter’s Square in 1981. range in St. Peter’s Square in 1981. The bishop began a five-part The students said they were struck by the Lenten conversation series with pope’s forgiveness of his would-be assassin high school seniors Feb. 29. and wondered whether they would be able to do the same. “That kind of forgiveness is something that you’d love to say you would be able to do,” Maura said. “You have to strive every day just to forgive the little things in life.” “It proves to me that Christ is still present,” said Christopher, “and it shows truly how good we are. I don’t know who would be able to forgive like that without help from God.” With several sessions remaining in the bishop’s Lenten conversations with the students, Douglas said he’s particularly interested in hearing more from Bishop Mc- Fadden on the topic of virtue, and forming a stronger connection with him. “A lot of us think of those in religious life as extremely exemplary people, and the fact that the bishop related himself to our level was very humbling,” he said. “He was once like us, and he has become a great influential person.” Principal Opportunities in Harrisburg Diocesan Schools for 2012-2013

Sacred Heart, Lewistown (K/3-5) Preferred Qualifications (in addition to the minimum qualifications): St. Catherine Laboure, Harrisburg (K/3-8) 3 years of Administrative experience Catechetical Certification (or in process) St. Leo the Great, Lancaster (K/3-8) Master’s Degree in Educational Administration York Catholic High School (7-12) Send resume and letter of interest to: Minimum Qualifications: Livia Riley Practicing, knowledgeable Catholic Superintendent of Schools Thorough understanding of Catholic School Philosophy Diocese of Harrisburg Commitment to modeling the values of Catholic Educational Leadership 4800 Union Deposit Road, Harrisburg, PA 17111-3710 (717) 657-4804, ext. 222 PA Administrators Certificate(or in process) Email: [email protected] Catechetical Certification (or in process) Deadline is March 23 5 years of teaching experience MARCH 16, 2012, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 9

The Church on Intimate Love: Healthy Soul, Healthy Body

Considering Contraception:

The Church’s teaching regarding artificial means of contraception and birth con- For these reasons we felt this was an opportune time to present in a fresh way trol is controversial in many quarters. In schools, women’s health care, politics and the Church’s teachings on love, marriage and childbearing. The Church has a firm even the Church itself, people often take strongly opposing positions on the use and teaching on human love and the joys and trials of family life. This insert only sur- availability of contraception and birth control. The media frequently presents only veys that teaching, and attempts to present it in a brief and understandable way. Ev- a partial, and sometimes even misleading appraisal of the Church’s teaching on the eryone is encouraged to use this material for private and group instruction, personal meaning of human sexuality and the morality of contraception. and corporate reflection and evangelization.

Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who walks in his ways! He shall eat the fruit of the labor of his hands; he shall be happy, and it shall be well with him. His wife will be like a fruitful vine within his house; his children will be like olive shoots around his table. ~ Psalm 128:1-3 Openness to Life Within Marriage selves from their spouse. It is impossible in “Children are the greatest treasure and the future this situation for a spouse to fully give him/ The following is a thumbnail sketch of of every society: truly caring for them means herself one to the other. It is like saying, “I the Catholic Church’s Teaching on Open- recognizing our responsibility to teach, defend and give myself to you, but not really, not totally.” ness to Life and on Contraception. The live the moral virtues which are the key to human Then the marriage act becomes a lie through information in the following points can be fulfillment. It is my hope that the Church in the the language of the body. found in greater detail in paragraphs 2366 United States, however chastened by the events • Human beings are not pure spirits like an- – 2370 of the Catechism of the Catholic of the past decade, will persevere in its historic gels, but rather a body/soul unity. Both body Church (CCC). These points were commission of educating the young and thus contribute and soul are good and important. What one piled by Mr. James Gontis, Diocesan Di- to the consolidation of that sound family life does with his/her body has a profound effect rector of Religious Education. which is the surest guarantee of intergenerational on the state of his/her soul. solidarity and the health of society as a whole.” • All this, then, rules out the legitimacy of • Fruitfulness/fecundity is a gift from contraception of any kind and direct steril- God. ~ Pope Benedict XVI, March 9, 2012 ization, e.g. vasectomies and tubal ligations, • The two ends of the marriage act (mari- both of which are gravely and intrinsically tal intercourse) are the unitive end, i.e. (by its very nature) evil, cf. CCC 2370. bonding, and the procreative end (openness to life). The marriage act is • If a person has contracepted or been sterilized, it is important that he/she never to dissociate these two ends. repent of these sincerely and, if Catholic, confess these sins in the Sacra- • This obviously does not mean that the marriage act will always result in ment of Penance (because they are sins of great gravity). the conception of a child. • If we are sorry for our sins, confess them forthrightly to the Priest (who • It does mean that when a couple engages in the marriage act they are to has authority given him by Christ to forgive sins in His name, cf. Jn. 20:19- be open through the language of the body to the possibility of a child being 23), and have a firm purpose of amendment, God will lavish His Divine conceived. Mercy upon us. “This is good and pleasing to God our Savior, who wills • When a married man and woman who are in sanctifying grace (the everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” (1 Timo- grace that makes us holy and pleasing in God’s eyes) engages in the mar- thy 2:3-4) riage act, and when that act is open to life and love, God pours into the souls • When married couples conceive a child, they “share in the creative of the couple and increase of sanctifying grace! power and fatherhood of God.” (CCC 2367) • Procreation is an end, an essential purpose of marriage and of the mari- • For just reasons, spouses may wish, by natural methods, to space the tal embrace. births of children. It is their duty to make certain that their desire is not mo- • Conjugal love naturally tends to be fruitful. tivated by selfishness but is in conformity with the generosity appropriate • Children are not “add-ons” to the love of spouses, but are a result of the to responsible parenthood. self-giving love the married couples are to show for one another. • “Periodic continence, that is, the methods of birth regulation based on • Because it is God’s law, not merely man’s law, the Church, which is “on self-observation and the use of infertile periods, is in conformity with the the side of life, teaches that it is necessary that each and every marriage act objective criteria of morality.” (CCC 2370) These methods are referred to remain ordered, per se to the procreation of human life.” (CCC 2366). as Natural Family Planning. Natural Family Planning differs essentially • When a couple contracept or is sterilized, they hold back a part of them- from contraception.

Timeline: The Church and Contraception AD 94 – The Didache or Teaching of the Twelve Apostles condemns 1951 – The highly effective Sympto-Thermal method of Natural Family contraception, which had been in use for more than 1,000 years. Other Planning is formulated. Other methods of NFP are developed in coming religious leaders like Clement of Alexandria, Origen, St. Jerome, St. John years. All methods are highly effective when used correctly. Chrysostom would do the same. 1960 – The Birth Control Pill is approved by the FDA and comes into c. AD 400 – St. Augustine states that intercourse takes place “in an general use. Almost immediately there are reports of negative side effects. unlawful and shameful manner, whenever the conception of offspring is 1963 – The Pontifical Commission on Population, Family, and Birth-rate avoided.” is formed by Pope John XXIII to discuss and formulate recommendations c. 1215 – St. Thomas Aquinas condemns any deliberate action to exclude regarding birth control. The commission is expanded by Pope Paul VI. offspring during intercourse. This was confirmed again and again by th 1964 – The U.S. government passes legislation providing birth control for theologians of all faiths and popes through the beginning of the 20 century. the poor. 1924-1927 – “Calendar Method” of family planning is developed in Japan 1964 – Birth control is still illegal in 8 states. and Austria. This method was based on a 28 day cycle for all women and was not very effective. 1965 – Griswold v Connecticut results in the legalization of birth control in all states. 1930 – The Lambeth Conference of the Anglican Church permits some forms of birth control in limited circumstances. This limitation is later 1966 – The Pontifical Commission issues its report to the Holy Father. dropped. Most Protestant denominations follow suit, and contraception 1968 – Pope Paul VI issues Humanae Vitae, which reaffirms that each becomes a matter of personal discretion. act of marital intimacy must keep together the “unitive” and “procreative” 1930 – In Casti Connubii (On Chaste Marriage), Pope Pius XI teaches aspects of human sexuality. Artificial methods are unacceptable, as they that all forms of artificial birth control are “intrinsically evil” because they disconnect the two. disregard natural law and human biology. He cites abstinence as the only 1979 – Pope John Paul II reaffirms the Church’s position on birth control. approved way to space births. He continues to preach about openness to life throughout his papacy. 1936 –The U.S. courts toss out most of the Comstock Laws, which had 1979-1984 – Pope John Paul II preaches a series of talks on Theology of prohibited (since 1873) distribution of contraceptives via U.S. Mail. the Body, greatly expanding the Church’s teaching . These talks continue to 1951 – Pope Pius XII approves periodic abstinence and the Calendar be shared and studied today. Method. He asks physicians to move forward on research in Natural Family 2005 –Benedict XVI ascends to the Papacy and continues to affirm and support Planning (NFP). the Church’s teachings on the unitive and procreative aspects of marital love. 10 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, MARCH 16, 2012 THE CHURCH ON INITMATE LOVE: HEALTHY SOUL, HEALTHY BODY

A Dialogue on the Harmony of Church Teaching and Women’s Health

On March 8, Msgr. William King, Diocesan Vicar General, sat down with Dr. Faith Daggs and Dr. Da- mon Cudihy at The Birthplace, the OB/GYN floor at Holy Spirit Hospital in Camp Hill, to discuss the relationship between the Church’s moral teachings and women’s health. Mrs. Victoria Laskowski, Diocesan Director of Marriage and Family Ministries, and Fr. Paul CB Schenck, Diocesan Director of the Respect Life Office, joined in the conversation. The purpose of the discussion was to relate the core of the Church’s instruction on artificial contraception, sterilization and abortion-inducing drugs to the care and treatment of women patients and their partners. Dr. Daggs and Dr. Cudihy were very informa- tive and insightful in their discussions about the posi- tive application of their faith as practicing Catholics to their effective practice as physicians dedicated to providing their women patients with the best of care and therapies.

Is contraception, or sterilization or abortion-inducing drugs necessary and essential to women’s health? Dr. Daggs: I would not say that these are essential and necessary to women’s health care. Certainly, they have been incorporated as treatments for a variety of CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS gynecologic disorders. In particular, oral contracep- Dr. Damon Cudihy, MD, is a staff Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Holy Spirit Hospital’s Center for Women’s tives have been used as a medical panacea for many Health in Camp Hill. He was previously a field surgeon for the U. S. Army, serving in Iraq. In addition to the women’s health conditions – painful periods, irregu- pathology and treatment of preeclampsia, his academic interests include treatment of infertility, endometrio- lar cycles, ovarian cysts, endometriosis – when actu- sis, and the advancement of minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Cudihy is a certified medical consultant for the ally there’s not great data that this therapy is effective Creightion Model FertilityCare™ System. His wife Lauren and he have five children ages 9, 7, 5, 2 and the for all of those conditions. newest expected in May. Sterilization doesn’t serve any purpose other than that are alternatives and available, and that were used showing it probably does decrease the rate of ovarian destroying the tubes and disrupting one’s fertility. even prior to the advent of contraceptives or have cancer and potentially uterine cancer, when you look It doesn’t treat any known medical conditions, and been developed subsequent to the availability of con- at the net effect – because breast cancer is so much there is some research that shows it actually may pro- traceptives. more common in particular – it is an increased risk duce problems for a woman. It can potentially lead Dr. Cudihy: The short answer is no, I don’t see of cancer. to adhesions or scar tissue within the abdomen and that contraceptives are ever an actual form of wom- We’re hearing that contraception is basic preventa- pelvis, and in some cases may even be related to fu- en’s health care. When it comes to contraception, a tive health care. I’ve said more than once that it is ture disruptions of woman’s fertility is actually a healthy condition. If a preventative, but not in the sense that people think. a woman’s cycle woman is able to conceive, that means there is some- When it’s used to apparently treat endometriosis, ir- “Welcoming a child, and/or pain. through birth or thing working right with her reproductive system. regular cycles or pelvic pain, many times it’s prevent- Abortion gen- There’s not a malady in need of treatment. … Our ing the woman from ever receiving a proper diagno- adoption, is an act of erally is not used first approach is not to do harm. If I make a decision sis and preventing her from having a treatment that faith as well as an act as a treatment – to destroy a woman’s reproductive system, I’m actu- will cure the disease. Contraception is not preventing therapeutically, ally doing harm to her normally functioning system. a disease – it’s preventing diagnosis, treatment and of love. Being open so to speak – for a to new life signals Unfortunately, contraception is treated like a pana- cure of the disease. It’s an easy way out for us physi- pregnancy. There cea. I think it’s more of the snake oil of modern medi- cians to avoid having to address it. … An approach trust in the God who may be some cine. … If I thought it was an effective treatment for that actually seeks to diagnose the problem and treat very rare medi- ultimately creates and endometriosis, for polycystic ovarian syndrome or it requires more work. It requires some imaging stud- cal conditions in for irregular cycles, I would use it. But there are much ies, some blood work, even surgery. And while it’s sustains all life. It is a woman where better ways to treat those conditions that actually get more work, it’s what the woman deserves if we are also the beginning there may be a to the heart of the problem. really concerned about her health. of a lifetime consideration to When it comes to abortion, there are some situa- commandment: terminate a preg- tions where a continued pregnancy may pose a sig- nancy because of nificant risk to a woman’s health. There are other situ- “Married love is powerfully nurturing, teaching, her failing health. disciplining, and, ations where a woman’s health may be endangered, embodied in the spouses’ sexual The main one that for example uterine cancer or an ectopic pregnancy. finally, letting go of comes to mind is These are situations where there may be a procedure relationship, when they most fully a child—as he or she cardiomyopathy necessary, but the action in these situations is not a express what it means to become follows a new and or primary pul- direct abortion. The child’s unfortunate, unavoidable “one body” (Gn 2:24) or “one flesh” monary hyperten- perhaps uncharted death is a secondary effect. But I want to be clear that (Mk 10:8, Mt 19:6). The Church sion. However, I don’t believe that direct abortion is ever necessary way of love. even in that realm for a woman’s health. … teaches that the sexual union of Parenthood is indeed in the last ten husband and wife is meant to express a Christian call years, there are Is contraception ever a threat the full meaning of love, its power small case series, to a woman’s life or health? and responsibility. particularly in to bind a couple together and its It is the experience England, of other Dr. Cudihy: Very much so. Few people are aware openness to new life. When Scripture of acting as God’s therapeutics being that the World Health Organization, as of 2005, has portrays God creating mankind able to be used included hormonal contraceptives as what they define instruments in giving as a Group I carcinogen. Carcinogens are those things “in his image” (Gn 1:27), it treats life to sons and to manage those that we know cause cancer. Some examples of other the union of man and woman as women medical- carcinogens in this category would be asbestos, radio- joining two persons equal in human daughters in various ly to carry them active phosphorus, tobacco products and radon. For ways; but equally, through pregnan- the World Health Organization to make that statement dignity (“This one, at last, is bone it is an experience cy, at least to vi- was pretty striking. That means that they looked at of my bones /and flesh of my flesh,” of being formed by ability. the evidence and saw that there was really no debate Gn 2:23), and as being open to the I don’t see them anymore about whether or not this is a cancer-causing God through your as essential and agent. blessing of children (“Be fertile and children.” The types of cancer that are most associated with multiply,” Gn 1:28).” necessary, partic- the birth control pill would be breast cancer, cervical ularly since there cancer and liver cancer. One of the unfortunate things ~Follow the Way of Love are a variety of that has been promoted is the idea that birth control ~ Married Love and the Gift of Life (USCCB, 1994) medical and sur- pills are actually preventive against cancer. It’s im- (USCCB, 2009) gical therapies portant to understand that although there are studies THE CHURCH ON INITMATE LOVE: HEALTHY SOUL, HEALTHY BODY MARCH 16, 2012, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 11

Pope John Paul II taught Is the Church’s that there may be reasons for a teaching as it addresses “In particular, woman to delay pregnancy, contraception, responsible where it may be morally sterilization and fatherhood and incumbent upon her to do that for abortion-inducing her health and her family’s sake. drugs in conflict with motherhood Would you say at that time that good health practices directly concern oral contraceptives would for women? the moment in be appropriate? Dr. Daggs: I do not be- which a man and Dr. Daggs: I would not say that oral lieve so. What we do day- a woman, uniting contraceptives would be appropriate in and day-out is take care of women, and we do it in ‘in one flesh’, can because we have legitimate medical a manner that is consistent become parents. means for a woman to know and un- with our faith but medi- derstand her body, and for she and her cally cogent and scientifi- This is a moment partner to work together to use that in cally sound, without using of special value order to space or avoid pregnancy al- sterilization procedures, to both of together. contraceptives or referring for termination of preg- them for their Natural Family Planning has many nancy. It allows us to be interpersonal names: fertility awareness, Billings better physicians. … From relationship Ovulation Method, Sympto-Thermal a medical standpoint, I Method, the Creighton Model. All feel like I am really man- and for their of these are based on a 50-year sci- aging women’s health service to life: ence of knowing what’s going on in a care in terms of using in- they can become woman’s body hormonally, and using vestigatory tools and then treating in ways that are parents - father the biological indicators of that can be complementary to their and mother - by readily taught and observed regardless body that aren’t going to of the amount of education or training mask something that’s go- communicating a woman has. Often, these methods are ing to cause further dam- life to a new an aid to their health. We use Creigh- age. human being. ton Model in our practice. That’s been The two medically adapted to help us manage a So it’s not a matter of Church against dimensions of whole host of gynecologic conditions. CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS medicine, or medicine conjugal union, Dr. Faith Daggs, MD, is an Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Holy Dr. Cudihy: Unfortunately, in those against Church? Spirit Hospital’s Center for Women’s Health who specializes in high- rare situations that we have a patient the unitive and risk obstetrics, infertility, midwifery care and Natural Family Planning. that we may need to advise them to Dr. Cudihy: Not at the procreative, She completed her medical degree (with honors) and her residency avoid having children again, there is all. The teachings of the cannot be at the Georgetown University School of Medicine in Washington, D.C. Church encourage us to no reason why we should feel that we want to provide the very artificially She is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology; a have to put them on some kind of birth member of the Catholic Medical Association, the American Association best medicine and the very separated control pill or sterilization when there best health care for wom- of Prolife Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Academy without of Fertility Care Providers. She and her husband Paul, an attorney, are more effective or equally effective en. It’s such a false argu- have ten children, ages 16, 14, 12, 10, 8, 7, 6, 4, 2, and 3 months. methods that do no harm to her body. ment to suggest somehow damaging the that the Church’s teach- deepest truth of ings on this matter are in In the delivery room, immediately after Knowing the harm that contraception, conflict with good wom- the conjugal act delivery, some physicians will ask a woman what sterilization and abortion cause, and en’s health. In fact, it’s itself.” type of birth control she would like to start, or if knowing that there are safe, moral and the Church’s teachings on she would like to have a tubal ligation. Is that a effective methods regarding family planning, the matter that keep us on ~ John Paul II, Letter necessary follow up to delivery? why are women still choosing the former? track in seeking to provide the very best for women. to Families, 1994 Dr. Daggs: No. Certainly, there are situations where Dr. Daggs: It’s the almighty dollar. In general, Natu- The Church’s positions on undertaking another pregnancy and another delivery ral Family Planning is not a moneymaker so it’s not this in no way are harmful is a particular concern to a woman’s health. However, well known to people. Also, I think there may be a to women. It’s not because the Church doesn’t care about the delivery room is not the most appropriate place to sense that women feel like it is totally their respon- women that she teaches that contraception violates her enter that discussion, even if the woman has no risk sibility in a relationship, that society has shifted this human dignity; it’s actually precisely because the Church factors. There’s quite a bit of study looking at women responsibility totally to women. Particularly with the does care about women that she teaches that. Because of who were counseled regarding tubal ligation during legalization of abortion, it’s really allowed men to ab- the guidance of the Church on this issue, it’s helped us pregnancy and shortly after delivery and who accepted dicate in a significant way their responsibility as part- to be better physicians. In no way do I feel constrained those procedures. Afterward, they showed a particular ner in this decision for a family. Certainly there are somehow that this is holding me back from providing the amount of regret. contraceptives that men use and men can be sterilized, best care. Family planning is an important discussion to have. but we’ve really allowed men as a society to abdicate Even though I know this is impossible, if somehow We’re truly called to be responsible parents. For some their responsibility. the Pope came out tomorrow with a statement that contra- families, it may be that they can be open to many chil- I think women maybe feel that they have no other ception was now acceptable, it wouldn’t change the way dren; for some families, it may not mean that for a vari- choice, particularly if their spouse or their partner is I practice. I see through and through the medical and sci- not participating in this very important part of their re- entific side that it’s just not good medicine. The Church is ety of reasons. If a woman has post-partum depression, helping point us in the direction of good medicine. she might not be ready to entertain another pregnancy. lationship. I’m sure they participate on other levels in It takes two people to conceive, and so the responsi- terms of finances and child-rearing, but often this is Medicine, with the application of Catholic moral bility is shared. Ideally, it’s a shared decision – not just pushed off onto the woman. The women’s movement principles, is not pure science, but human science. We one person has to take a medication, wear a device or said to women, “You need to grab what’s yours in treat the human person with the dignity of a creature have a surgical procedure. terms of education and career,” and that’s all good. But of God, but also with solid scientific principles. Dr. Cudihy: There tends to be an attitude that wom- how incredibly sad – from a woman who is a career en are somehow hapless victims of their own fertility, woman and a mother and a wife – that a woman would Dr. Daggs: I’d have to say that it’s allowed me to flour- that somehow the potential for them to conceive is a assume that she had to deny her ability to be a mother ish. I was not always of this mind. When I was in my disease state. It breaks my heart to hear a woman tell and to destroy what’s part of her feminine genius in professional education, I had a very different viewpoint me about how she was pressured into having a steril- order to have a career. I have been blessed with more that I was kind of saving my fertility and I had a plan. ization the day of her delivery. She delivers and then is than the usual number of children, but I don’t feel like Fortunately, I had a conversion and it profoundly affected convinced to be sterilized the same day. that’s been a hindrance to my career. my personal life, my marriage and the bounty of life that my husband and I have been blessed with. But also, it profoundly affected by professional life and the way that “I know that couples have to plan their family and for that there is natural family God has been able to use me to work with women and to be continually humbled by the human body and its planning. The way to plan the family is natural family planning, not contraception. complexities, and the gift of fertility. It’s allowed me to In destroying the power of giving life, through contraception, a husband or wife is achieve more than I could ever do on my own, and even doing something to self. This turns the attention to self and so it destroys the gift push my own limits in terms of being a professional and of love in him or her. In loving, the husband and wife must turn the attention to being a wife and mother. Dr. Cudihy: I see the truth of these things being af- each other as happens in natural family planning, and not to self, as happens in firmed every day in the office. Most of our patients aren’t contraception. Once that living love is destroyed by contraception, abortion follows Catholic. They come to us not because they know that very easily. I also know that there are great problems in the world - that many we don’t prescribe contraception and we don’t recom- mend In Vitro Fertilization, but because they hear in the spouses do not love each other enough to practice natural family planning. community that they’re going to be treated with respect We cannot solve all the problems in the world, but let us never bring in the worst and care. It’s consistent with good science. Good science problem of all, and that is to destroy love. And this is what happens means we really care about the person. The longer I do this, the more I see the truth being reinforced. Never do when we tell people to practice contraception and abortion.” I feel that the Catholic Church is holding me back from ~ Blessed Theresa of Calcutta being a doctor. The teachings of the Church and the guidance of the Church have helped me to be a better doctor. 12 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, MARCH 16, 2012 THE CHURCH ON INITMATE LOVE: HEALTHY SOUL, HEALTHY BODY

during the menstrual cycle. Lower temperatures indicate that ovulation has not yet Natural Family Planning occurred. Higher temperatures indicate a rise in progesterone which signals the end Natural Family Planning (NFP) is an umbrella term for certain methods used to of the fertile time. The third sign is a change in the shape or texture of the cervix. achieve and avoid pregnancies. These methods are based on observation of the natu- Finally, secondary signs, such as minor abdominal pain or pressure at the time of rally occurring signs and symptoms of the fertile and infertile phases of a woman’s ovulation can also be observed. menstrual cycle. Couples using NFP to avoid pregnancy abstain from intercourse How does NFP work? and genital contact during the fertile phase of the woman’s cycle. No drugs, devices, or surgical procedures are used to avoid pregnancy. NFP reflects the dignity of the NFP instruction helps a couple identify the most opportune time to achieve as well human person within the context of marriage and family life, promotes openness to as avoid a pregnancy. Understanding that intercourse or genital contact during the life, and recognizes the value of the child. By respecting the love-giving and life- fertile time can result in pregnancy, couples using the natural methods must be clear giving natures of marriage, NFP can enrich the bond between husband and wife. regarding their family planning intention--that is, do they wish to achieve or avoid Is NFP Rhythm? a pregnancy? If a couple wishes to achieve pregnancy, they have intercourse during the fertile NFP is not “Rhythm.” The Rhythm (or Calendar) method was developed in the time. If a couple wishes to avoid pregnancy, they abstain from intercourse and any 1920s. It was based on the theory that the time of next ovulation could be determined genital contact during the fertile time. No artificial methods are used during the fer- by calculating previous menstrual cycles. This method often proved inaccurate because of the unique nature of each woman’s menstrual cycle: some women have very tile time. These would interfere with a women’s observation of her fertility signs. irregular cycles and almost all women have a cycle of unusual length once in a while. What are the benefits of using NFP? On the other hand, NFP methods are progressive. That is, they are based on pro- In NFP both spouses are taught to understand the nature of fertility and work with gressive, day-to-day observations of the naturally occurring signs and symptoms of the fertile and infertile phases of the menstrual cycle. NFP methods take advantage it, either to plan a pregnancy or to avoid a pregnancy. Couples who use NFP soon of the changes associated with ovulation, treating each cycle as unique. learn that they have a shared responsibility for family planning. Husbands are en- Couples using NFP to avoid pregnancy abstain from intercourse during the fertile couraged to “tune into” their wives’ cycles and both spouses are encouraged to speak phase of the woman’s cycle. Couples who wish to achieve a pregnancy can also openly and frankly about their sexual desires and their ideas on family size. take advantage of the fertile time of the cycle. Because it allows couples to adjust How effective are the Natural Family their behavior to the naturally occurring cycles of a woman’s body, NFP is not a Planning methods for avoiding pregnancy? contraceptive--i.e., it does nothing to work against conception. When couples understand the methods and are motivated to follow them, NFP is Who can use NFP? up to 99% successful in spacing or limiting births. Any married couple can use NFP! A woman need not have “regular” cycles. NFP The effectiveness of NFP depends upon the spouses’ following the rules of the education helps couples to fully understand their combined fertility, thereby helping method according to their family planning intention (i.e., achieving or limiting preg- them to either achieve or avoid a pregnancy. The key to the successful use of NFP is nancy). Those who are strongly motivated to avoid pregnancy and follow the meth- cooperation and communication between husband and wife--a shared commitment. od-defined rules are very effective in meeting their goal. NFP is unique among methods of family planning because it enables its users to work with the body rather than against it. Fertility is viewed as a reality to live, not Effectiveness of Natural Family Planning in Avoiding Pregnancy: a problem to be solved. (Number of pregnancies among 100 couples in one year.) What are the signs of fertility? Couples who carefully follow all the rules for avoiding pregnancy all the time -- 1-3 A woman’s body provides three basic ways to identify the fertile and infertile Couples who do not follow all the rules for avoiding pregnancy -- 2-15 times of her cycle. Recognizing the pattern of those physical signs forms the basis Where can I learn how to use NFP? for all methods of NFP. A primary sign of fertility is the mucus released from the women’s cervix. A wom- The best way to learn NFP is from a qualified instructor-- that is, one who is certi- an learns to identify the normal, healthy, cervical mucus which indicates the days fied from an NFP teacher training program. that intercourse is most likely to result in a pregnancy. The second sign is her basal (Used with permission from the NFP Program, United States Conference of Catholic body temperature. Due to hormonal activity, a woman’s waking temperature changes Bishops. All rights reserved. http://old.usccb.org/prolife/issues/nfp/information.shtml)

“The Lord, wishing to bestow special gifts of grace and divine love on married love, has restored, perfected, and elevated it. A love like that, bringing together the human and the divine, leads the partners to a free and mutual self-giving, experienced in tenderness and action, and permeating their entire lives; this love is actually developed and increased by its generous exercise.”

~ Gaudium et Spes (1965)

Natural Family Planning Instructors Sympto-Thermal Ellen & Larry Kramer Creighton Model Method Teachers 101 South College Street FertilityCare ™ System Myerstown, PA 17067 Anna Dale 717-866-5425 Spirit FertilityCare ™ Services For further information on what the Church 2205 Schoolhouse Road Classes 1st & 3rd Monday Center for Women’s Health teaches about marriage and natural family planning, Middletown, PA 17057 visit our resource page at Karene Robinson Holy Spirit Hospital 717-944-6391 www.hbgdiocese.org/NFP. [email protected] 1318 Bradley Avenue 423 North 21st Street Hummelstown, PA 17036 Brian & Mary Metzger Camp Hill, PA 17011 717-566-6693 717-909-9414 2311 Williamview Drive 717-649-6284 Cell Harrisburg, PA 17112 [email protected] Coordinator: Benefits of NFP 717-652-4949 Dorice Millar, RN, CFCP, FCEI [email protected] Greg & Kimberly Burke • Works with human fertility 505 Locust Lane [email protected] • Teaches a couple to understand their combined fertility Martin & Mary Smith Danville, PA 17821 • Treats each menstrual cycle as unique 4177 East Main Street 570-271-1545 Practitoners: Belleville, PA 17044 [email protected] Kim Lane, RN, BSN, CFCP • Effective for achieving or avoiding pregnancy 717-935-5256 Patti Katzenmoyer, CRNP, FCP, NFPNP • Useful throughout a woman’s reproductive life-time Steve & Karen Konkolics (e.g., post-partum, breastfeeding, perimenopause, etc.) Marcia Moyer 2267 Old Berwick Road Erin Donley, M.Ed., FCP • No harmful side effects 11825 Orlando Circle Bloomsburg, PA 17815 Grace Targonski, MTS, FCP Waynesboro, PA 17268 570-389-0456 • Economical (fees are typically charged for first instruction) 717-762-7421 Medical Consultants: • Values children Jill Pokrivka Dr. Ann Marie Manning, MD, FACOG Michael & Mary Theresa Squierdo 1049 Smith Hill Road • Requires mutual responsibility by both husband and wife 119 Swarthmore Drive York, PA 17408 Dr. Faith Daggs, MD, FACOG • Encourages couple communication Lititz, PA 17543 717-718-5354 Dr. Mark Stegman, MD, FACOG • Fosters respect for and acceptance of the total person 717-626-9267 [email protected] Dr. James Long, MD, FACOG • Respects God’s design for married love! MARCH 16, 2012, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 13

Local Church News

The names of the following deceased ROARING CREEK – Our Lady of persons have been submitted by their Mercy: Gloria Fraim. parishes: SELINSGROVE – St. Pius X: Steven ABBOTTSTOWN – Immaculate Heart Bickhart. of Mary: Frances Griffie, Josephine O’Brien, Rose Palermo. STEELTON – Prince of Peace: Ann M. Seminarians Installed as Acolytes BERWICK – Immaculate Conception Euker, Mary Malesic, Isaias Rodriguez. On Sunday, March 4, 55 seminarians of the Pontifical North American College BVM: William Decker, Judith Whitmore. YORK – St. Joseph: Millard H. Berry, were instituted to the ministry of acolyte during a celebration of the Eucharist. Mat- CAMP HILL – Good Shepherd: Dolores Jr., Angeline A. Concino, Theresa A. thew Marcus and Kyle Sahd of the Diocese of Harrisburg, who are in their second year of theological studies, were among those seminarians instituted. Rudolph. Frank, Donna Markle, Ruth A. Shubert; His Excellency, the Most Reverend John C. Nienstedt, Archbishop of Saint Paul CARLISLE – St. Patrick: James St. Patrick: John (Jack) McKenna; St. Norcross, John Warren Norris. and Minneapolis, celebrated the Mass and instituted the new acolytes. Among the Rose of Lima: John Mingora. concelebrants of the Mass were the American bishops present in Rome for their ad CHAMBERSBURG – Corpus Christi: Sister Maureen limina visits with His Holiness Benedict XVI. Marian Fetterhoff, Mary Elizabeth Ho- In his homily, Archbishop Nienstedt explained that through their institution the spodar. Anuszkiewicz Church has given the new acolytes the opportunity to serve at the altar and assist the COAL TOWNSHIP – Our Lady of Sister Maureen Anuszkiewicz of the priest and deacon at the celebration of the Sacred Mysteries. He expressed his hope Hope: Leonard F. Poplaskie. Bernardine Franciscan Sisters Third that the exercise of this ministry “will at the same time deepen your affection and love COLUMBIA – St Peter: Margaret A. Order Regular of St. Francis, died Feb. for those same Mysteries.” Misel. 27 at St. Joseph Villa, Mount Alvernia, These seminarians have now received both the ministry of lector and acolyte in CORNWALL – Sacred Heart: Francis A. in Reading, Pa. She was 94. anticipation of their diaconal, and then priestly, ordination. As the rite indicates, an “Frank” Fiorentino. Born in Kulpmont, she entered the acolyte is charged with assisting at the celebration of the Eucharist, purifying the Bernardine Order in 1935. She earned sacred vessels and when needed to assist with the distribution of Holy Communion. DALLASTOWN – St. Joseph: Rose- mary P. Reineberg. a Bachelor of Science degree in Educa- tion from Duquesne University in Pitts- DANVILLE – St. Joseph: Donald Brady. St. Rose of Lima School Earns Accreditation burgh and a Master in Sacred Science St. Rose of Lima School in Thomasville was recently awarded accreditation by ENOLA – Our Lady of Lourdes: Regina from St. Bonaventure in New York. Ann Shettel. the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. The award was announced Sister Maureen served her ministry by The Middle States Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools follow- GETTYSBURG – St. Francis Xavier: in Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, ing the Commissions’ October 2011 meetings. St. Rose of Lima School was one of Wayne Asper, Thomas Rosensteel. Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, approximately 200 schools honored by the two Commissions. Accreditation is recog- HARRISBURG – St. Catherine Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Is- nized around the world as an indication of trustworthiness, educational quality, and a Labouré: Margaret Cichy, Joseph land, South Dakota and Washington, commitment to on-going school improvement. Papandrea, Sr., Frances Watkins. D.C., as an elementary and secondary HERSHEY – St. Joan of Arc: Joseph teacher, superior, director of postulants, Biggica, Irene Iorio. principal, 4th general councilor, admin- Souper Bowl Sunday KULPMONT – Holy Angels: George istrator, testing technician and tutor. Sale Raises Support for Shelters Pisarz. The funeral Mass was celebrated March 3 at Sacred Heart Convent Cha- The recent soup sale held at four area parishes was a rousing success! Souper Bowl LEBANON – Assumption BVM: pel, Mount Alvernia, Reading. Burial Sunday, sponsored by the St. Elizabeth Guild in support of Catholic Charities, netted George Arnold, Michael Discullio, Cyril close to $3,000 with all proceeds benefitting the organization’s Homes for Healing: “Bud” Faust, James Leedy, Catherine was in the Bernardine Franciscan Sis- ters’ cemetery, Mount Alvernia. Lourdeshouse, Evergreen House, Hope House and the Interfaith Shelter for Home- Swoyer. less Families. MANHEIM – St. Richard: Edward This was the first fundraising event sponsored by the newly-formed guild, which Coyle. was organized last April to promote the growth and development of Catholic Chari- MCSHERRYSTOWN – Annunciation ties through fundraising activities, volunteer support and by creating awareness of its BVM: Mary C. Murphy. mission and goals to the community at large. Upcoming events include a wine and MOUNT CARMEL – Our Lady: cheese reception and art show featuring original Norman Rockwell illustrations, a Florence Boslego, Roger Gentile, Joseph 5K Run and Walk, golf outings and the annual Come and See Dinner. Stutz, Jr. Please pray for the following clergy who Our thanks go to the following parishes and pastors: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in died in March during the past 25 years: Mechanicsburg and Reverend Msgr. William King; St. Joseph in Mechanicsburg and NEW CUMBERLAND – St. Theresa: Father James Byrne, 1988 Father Chester Snyder; St. Theresa in New Cumberland and Father J. Michael Mc- Marie Juliana, Ann Marie Russ Mueller. Father Joseph Zednowicz, 1989 Fadden; and Holy Name of Jesus in Harrisburg and Very Reverend Edward Quinlan, NEW FREEDOM – St. John the Deacon William Smith, 1994 Father Stephen Jordan, 1994 and to the congregants of these parishes who so generously supported the soup sale. Baptist: Robert Black, Richard Fleming, Franciscan Father Gerald Kedziora, 2002 For more information about the guild’s programs, services and volunteer oppor- James Herbert, Larry Sibley. Bishop Nicholas C. Dattilo, 2004 tunities, write to Catholic Charities, St. Elizabeth Guild, 4800 Union Deposit Road, NEW OXFORD – Immaculate Conventual Franciscan Father Robert Harrisburg PA 17111. Indicate your interest in serving on a committee (membership, Conception BVM: Susan Norton. Grzybowski, 2007 marketing or special events), serving on the steering committee, or helping with spe- Deacon J. Leo Dunn, 2007 PALMYRA – Holy Spirit: Pauline Abbot John Neitzel, O. Praem, 2008 cial events. Include your name, address, phone number and e-mail address. Zannino Gerace. Father Lawrence Gross, 2009 QUARRYVILLE – St. Catherine of Siena: Father John Greaney, 2009. Inaugural “Mitre Cup” Shirley Ann Kology, Ray Shoemaker. Invitational Golf Tournament Planned The Inaugural “Mitre Cup” Invitational Golf Tournament will feature Bishop Jo- Diocesan Cemeteries seph P. McFadden and the Diocese of Harrisburg versus Father Peter Hahn and the North and South Lancaster Deanery. HARRISBURG MECHANICSBURG/ Manager Mike Rugalla YORK The golf tournament will be held at Bent Creek Country Club in Lancaster on Holy Cross Cemetery Phone: 570-672-2872 Thursday, June 28 with shot gun start at 1p.m. Applications are being accepted for 4075 Derry Street Gate of Heaven Cemetery Fax: 570-672-3268 1313 York Street [email protected] Harrisburg PA 17111 Scramble Division, Team Competition and Individual Competition for both the Lan- Mechanicsburg PA 17055 LANCASTER caster and the Diocese of Harrisburg team. USGA Handicap required. The cost is Mount Calvary Cemetery St. Mary Cemetery St. Anthony Cemetery $300 per player which includes: golf cart for two, logo golf shirt (red for Lancaster 500 South 13th Street Violet Hill Ranck Mill Ave. and Grofftown Rd. Harrisburg PA 17104 Team, Blue for the Bishop’s Team) locker room facilities, shoe shine, goodie bag, York PA 17402 Lancaster PA 17602 boxed lunch, complimentary beer and buffet dinner. Space is limited to 88 golfers. Resurrection Cemetery St. Patrick Cemetery St. Mary Cemetery The money raised from this event will benefit the benevolent care fund at St. Anne’s 116 South Oak Grove Road Violet Hill New Holland Pike, Route 23 Retirement Community in Columbia. Harrisburg PA 17112 York PA 17402 Lancaster PA 17601 Even if you’re not a golfer, we’re offering a great opportunity to support St. Manager Ed Scholly Holy Saviour Cemetery St. Joseph Cemetery Anne’s. There will be an exciting “Golf Balls From Heaven Drop” at 6:30 p.m. that 3420 Susquehanna Trail Phone: 717-545-4205 (Old St. Joseph’s) evening. Donation of $50 for each golf ball, or 3 for $100, are on sale now. Only 375 Fax: 717-545-4523 York PA 17402 440 St. Joseph Street golf balls will be sold. If your numbered golf ball falls closest to the target, you win [email protected] Manager Tom Brlansky Lancaster PA 17601 Phone: 717-697-0206 $2,500. Winner need not be present to win. LEBANON St. Joseph Cemetery (Mechanicsburg) After the golf tournament there will be a cocktail reception and buffet dinner with 170 Charles Road Holy Cross Cemetery 717-764-9685 (York) P.O. Box 127 Bishop McFadden. If you would like to attend, tickets are $100. 1810 Jay Street [email protected] Bausman PA 17504 If you are interested in playing golf in this tournament, sponsorship opportuni- Lebanon PA 17046 ELYSBURG Manager Patrick Eichelberger ties, purchasing tickets for the “Golf Balls From Heaven Drop,” or attending the Manager Patrick Eichelberger All Saints Cemetery Phone: 717-394-2231 cocktail reception/buffet dinner, contact Mary Jo Diffendall at 717-285-6539 or Phone: 717-273-7541 172 All Saints Road Fax: 717-394-2664 [email protected]. [email protected] Elysburg PA 17824 [email protected] 14 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, MARCH 16, 2012 District BasketBall championships Lourdes Regional Topples Undefeated Foe to Win Another District 4 Title In the District 4 Class Lourdes’ Christina A girls’ basketball cham- Perles gets fouled pionship at Danville High going for a lay-up. School, the Lady Red Raid- ers beat previously unbeaten Line Mountain 66-49 to continue their dominance in District 4 basketball. Lourdes shot 60 percent from 3-point land in the first half to put the Eagles behind by double digits. Lourdes was led by junior power forward Christina Perles who poured in 21 points. This marks the fourth straight championship for the school and for the senior captains Ali Singh and Mol- ly Loftus. They noted that “it feels great to be a part of something that has not been done before at Lourdes,” which has had a very storied EMILY M. ALBERT, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS and successful program for Molly Loftus, senior captain, and Nikki Komara celebrate the past 25 years. another District 4 win.

Lebanon Catholic’s Stevie Fortna scores two of her 36 points. Leave it to the Beavers The Lebanon Catholic Beavers won their 16th Dis- trict 3 Class A girls’ championship in a great matchup against a solid Steel High team who arguably puts the area’s best player on the floor in junior Malia Tate- DeFreitas. And though she poured in 50 points in the 84-78 loss, the Beavers still won the game by defensive- ly controlling the Rollers’ other four players on the court. The Rollers took a phe- nomenal 80 shots but only shot 28 percent from the field that also included a dismal 2-19 from beyond the three-point arc. Lead- ing Lebanon Catholic was senior Stevie Fortna, who poured in 36 points which included her 1,000th career point on a crucial free- throw. “Everyone basically told us that we were underdogs EMILY M. ALBERT, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS and weren’t supposed to The Beavers celebrate Coach Patti Hower’s 16th District 3 title. win,” Fortna said after the game.

Trinity’s Patrick Dill grabs a rebound Berks against the Saints. Catholic Edges Trinity Might be that the most anticipated District 3 finals matchup was the one played between the Shamrocks of Trinity High School and newly merged Berks Catholic in Class AAA on March 2 at the Giant Cen- ter in Hershey. With the game tied at 49 with less than two minutes to play, the Saints went on a 7-0 run to finish the game. The Rocks missed a couple of key open three-point looks while the Saints’ Marquis Marshall, son of former NBA star Donyell, was able to convert a couple of key buckets in the paint in crunch time to seal the victory. Trinity was led by their outstand- ing shooter Brad Wesner, who hit 10-17 shots. The Rocks only turned the ball over four times, but were EMILY M. ALBERT, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS out-rebounded 36-25. MARCH 16, 2012, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 15 District BasketBall championships

Lancaster Crusaders Catholic’s catalyst, Porsha Defy Odds Speller, It’s hard to have faith down 5 points without prepares the ball with just under a minute to go. But to drive a quick steal and a 22-foot three pointer that to the hit nothing but net by Lancaster Catholic’s se- basket. nior co-captain Alyssa Aichele, followed by a jumper by freshman Erin Holt, and suddenly the basketball game is tied waiting for your true scorer to ice the game with a pair of free throws. That’s what happened when Lancaster Catholic’s premier scorer Porsha Speller sank them both to doom Oley Valley in the District Crusaders’ 3 Class AAA final at the Giant Center in Her- legendary shey on March 3. coach Lamar Speller poured in 29 points, shot 10-16 from the field and grabbed 13 rebounds, which is Kauffman astonishing given her diminutive stature on celebrates the floor. The exciting 72-69 victory gave Lan- win number caster Catholic its 15th District title under the 706. legendary tutelage of Lamar Kauffman, who passed the 700-win plateau last month. He has been coaching at the school for 30 years and has sports a record of 706-176. Yes, that’s av- CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS eraging 25-plus wins a season! More than Lucky Seven It seems incredible to imagine, but the York Cath- olic Fighting Irish won their seventh consecutive District 3 basketball championship by again besting arch-rival Delone Catholic 49-42 at the Giant Center in Hershey on March 2. This amaz- ing feat was accomplished the usual way for the Irish – defense. They held the Squirettes to 15 percent field goal shooting in the fourth quarter to deny De- lone’s senior standout player Sierra Moore and team- mates a district gold medal. Moore, who is York Coun- ty’s all-time leading scorer and will play for Duke next year, could not penetrate the Irish’s 2-3 zone that was designed and executed with Moore in mind. “I just think that they play harder than us,” De- lone’s disappointed three- time state champ coach EMILY M. ALBERT, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS Gerry Eckenrode said after Delone Catholic’s Sierra Moore and York Catholic’s the game. “That’s to York Morgan Klunk battle for a rebound. Catholic’s credit.” The Irish’s Karli McFatrudge penetrates the defense.

The Squires’ Brent Smith scores a Thriller Goes crucial fourth quarter bucket. Squires’ Way Last year, the locker room after the District 3 Class AA final was eerily silent as the De- lone Catholic Squires had just lost a painful heartbreaker that denied the them first district title since 1985. And it would have marked the first title for legendary coach Jim Dooley as well. “First day of practice this year, I told the players that we were going to win the District title,” Coach Dooley said after winning this year’s exciting overtime thriller against York Catholic 43-39. “That was probably a mistake,” the coach said smiling. It seems almost impossible to win a basketball game shooting 5-48 from the field, but the Squires made some clutch 3-pointers, es- pecially so by Seth Bollers, that sent the game into overtime where defensive stands and crit- ical foul shooting made the difference. For Coach Dooley, who has nearly 450 wins at four different schools – with the most coming at Delone – it was his first district gold in five tries. “I feel like a 500-pound gorilla has been lifted off my back… These kids were magnificent and if you listen to the locker room back there you can tell that they are so CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS happy.” Tanner Orndorff battles for a putback for Delone Catholic. 16 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, MARCH 16, 2012

Catholic Sports Report Trinity’s Big ‘Diehl’ a State Champ

By Jen Reed Shamrock made early in the third. The Catholic Witness The nearly sold-out Giant Cen- ter crowd erupted in surprise as Rejuvenating its wrestling pro- Diehl struggled for a few mo- gram last year after a 40-year ments. hiatus, Trinity High School in “I knew I had to get off my Camp Hill etched itself in the back. I got lazy and he caught state-wrestling record books me,” Diehl told reporters after the when Ryan Diehl climbed to the match. highest spot on Pennsylvania’s After scrambling out of the championship podium at the Gi- danger zone, Diehl regained con- ant Center in Hershey March 10. trol of the match and solidified The 113-pound junior, a two- his first Pennsylvania state cham- time West Virginia state champ, pionship. He is the first dioc- capped off his undefeated season esan high school wrestler to win by beating Vito Pasone of Meyers state gold since Delone Catho- High School 11-5 in the title bout lic’s Dana Gingerich won at 130 that wasn’t without excitement. pounds in 2003. Having dominated the first two “I’m loving it,” Diehl said of periods and leading 8-0, Diehl his title win. “This really means suddenly found himself in a head- a lot. Wrestling [in Pennsylvania] lock and on his back after Pasone is a lot more technical. Plus the pounced on a mistake that the atmosphere is totally different.”

JEN REED, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS Ryan Diehl works to tilt Vito Pasone onto his back during their 113-pound state championship match. Diocesan Swimmers Pool Together for 4 Gold Medals

CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS Caroline Finkbeiner glides across the pool during the 200-meter freestyle. Victoria Griffin kicks to the end, finishing just seconds short of Finkbeiner. By Chris Heisey of the meet. In the lengthy 500-me- The Catholic Witness ter free later in the day, Finkbeiner won in more convincing fash- t’s never easy being the favorite ion, though she did not break the I to win any race, as those doing 5-minute barrier. The future Vol- the chasing are usually quite deter- unteer will swim in the competi- mined to upset you. But Trinity’s tive Southeastern Conference. The Caroline Finkbeiner held off her Squires’ Victoria Griffin won the close rivals to win two gold medals 100-free by more than a second at the District 3 swimming cham- and a half to compliment her silver pionships held at Cumberland Val- with a gold medal. ley’s Natatorium on March 2 and Repeating as District 3 champ in 3. The Shamrock senior, who will the boys’ 200-IM was Lancaster continue her swimming career at Catholic’s junior Everett Albert, the University of Tennessee, barely who won the gold medal by a fin- held off Delone Catholic’s Victoria gertip over Gettysburg’s Phineas EMILY M ALBERT, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS Griffin in the 200-meter freestyle O’Brien-Milne with both swim- Everett Albert pops up for air during the boys’ 200-IM. event to grab her first gold medal mers breaking the 2-minute barrier. MARCH 16, 2012, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 17

Local Church News

Catholic Charities of the from 4:45-6:45 p.m., up to and including March Lenten Fish Dinners 30. Fried or steamed fish, soup and salad, pizza Diocese of Harrisburg and weekly specials. Sides include fries, cole slaw, Holy Angels Parish in Kulpmont fish dinners applesauce or tossed salad, and children’s menu “Soup, Salad and Sermon” Lenten Lunch on Fridays during Lent beginning Feb. 24 through items available. Cost is $6.75 (crab cake dinners March 30 from 4-6 p.m. in the Activity Center. are $7.50) and includes roll, beverages and dessert. Tuesday, April 3 at Noon Dinner includes baked fish, potato dish, vegetable, Kids’ meals are $3 and children under 5 are free. Cardinal Keeler Center, Harrisburg cole slaw, salad, soup and dessert bar, coffee, tea or Take-outs available; call 717-259-0611 to order. Join Bishop Joseph P. McFadden and the staff from fruit punch. Donation $8 per platter. Dine-in or take Holy Name of Jesus Knights of Columbus out. Stations of the Cross will be prayed at Holy Catholic Charities as we learn about the ministry Council Lenten Fish Fry Dinner on Fridays in Lent provided through the agency. Angels Church on Fridays during Lent at 2 and 7 from 5-7 p.m. in the Social Hall. Standard dinner Lunch is complimentary, although a free-will of- p.m. fering will be taken. RSVP to Christopher Meehan by for $7 ($4 for children 5-12) will be fried or baked March 30 at 717-657-4804, ext. 284, or St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Harrisburg fish fish, fries or roasted potatoes, vegetables, a fruit [email protected]. dinners on the Fridays of Lent in March. Eat-in or cup or cole slaw, bread/butter and your choice of take out from 4:30-7 p.m. Cost is $8 for adults and drink. A dinner special each week. Catholic Charities $4 for children (4-12). Call 717-236-4506 for in- Providing Help. formation. Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in New Holland Creating Hope. Friday evening Lenten suppers in the parish center The St. Matthew’s Knights of Columbus will for 6 weeks beginning Feb. 24 from 5-7 p.m. Oven be hosting a baked haddock dinner March 23 and baked fish or crab cakes or shrimp or macaroni 30 from 4- 7 p.m. at the St. Matthew Parish Activ- and cheese with sides of fries or baked potato or ity Center., Dauphin. Cost is $10 for a large meal, cole slaw/applesauce. Beverages and dessert also $7 for a regular meal. Proceeds go to the Capital served. Cost is $11 at the door for adults, $3.50 for Campaign for the building of our new church. For children 6-12 years and children under 6 are free. more information, call Bob at 717-514-8325. Family ticket plan (2 adults and 3 or more children) The Knights of Columbus of St. Jude Thad- available for $30 pre-purchase. Call Cathy Warner deus Parish in Mifflintown Lenten Fish Dinners at 717-669-9230 for menu details or to pre-pur- in the church hall on Fridays Feb. 17-March 30 chase tickets. from 4-7 p.m. All-you-can-eat fried and baked fish, Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary popcorn shrimp, fried clams, fries, macaroni and Parish in Middletown Fish Fry on Fridays Feb. cheese, stewed tomatoes, corn, green beans, cole- 24-March 30 from 5-8 p.m. in the school cafeteria. slaw, applesauce, rolls, puddings, and desserts. $10 All-you-can-eat batter-dipped fish plus lemon-pep- for adults, $6 for children 6-12. per fish, crab cakes, jumbo fried shrimp, macaroni St. Rose of Lima Parish in York Lenten seafood and cheese, pierogies, baked sea scallop scampi, dinners. Take-out or eat-in from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 fettuccine alfredo with bay scallops and desserts p.m. and 4- 8 p.m. each Friday through Lent. Crab Dine in or place your takeout order at 717-944- cakes, shrimp and baked and fried fish, crab imperi- 5488 after 4 p.m. For information, visit www.sev- al, fried clams, scallops, grilled cheese sandwiches ensorrows.org. and more. Lighter fare and $3 kids’ menus. Entrees served with beverage, potatoes or pasta, cole slaw Perohi and Lenten dinners will be offered or vegetable. Macaroni and cheese, soups and des- Wednesdays during Lent in the parish hall at St. serts available. For take-outs, call 717-854-1371. Ann Byzantine Catholic Church, Harrisburg. Re- maining Wednesday sale dates are March 21 and The Church of the Holy Spirit in Palmyra 28. Lenten dinners featuring broiled fish, perohi, Lenten Fish Fry on Fridays Feb. 24-March 30 and side dishes and a beverage will be offered from from 3 p.m.-7 p.m. Ocean whitefish, fried shrimp 4-6:30 p.m. Homemade soups and halushki will or crab cake dinners; pierogies (dinner and side also be available. Profit will benefit area charities. dish); soup; beverage. Dinners include cole slaw, Perohi will be sold frozen for $5.50 per dozen from fries, roll, coffee and dessert. Stations of the Cross noon -1 p.m. and from 4-6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays at 7:30 pm. For info, call 717-838-3369. and from 9-noon on Saturdays in Lent. For infor- St. Peter Parish in Columbia Lenten Friday mation, call 717-652-1415 or visit www.stannbyz. Fish Fry on Fridays Feb. 24-March 30 from 4-6:30 org. p.m. Fish platters include baked haddock, oysters, scallops, crab cakes and other dishes. Desserts Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Cornwall available. Eat-in or take-out. Stations of the Cross Lenten Fish Dinners Wednesdays March 21, 28 at 7 p.m. and April 4 from 4-7 p.m. in the parish social hall. Baked or fried fish and baked potato or fries, apple- Our Lady Help of Christians Parish in Lykens sauce or coleslaw, homemade dessert, coffee or tea. Lenten Fish Fry on Fridays Feb. 24-March 30 from 4-7 p.m. in the parish hall. Cost is $9.50 for fried Salad available. Cost is $8 for large, $7 for small or baked haddock dinner, two crab cakes, shrimp and $4 for child’s (10 & under) fish dinner. dinner, or combo meal; $4 for fish or crab cake St. Peter Parish in Elizabethtown Lenten Din- sandwich; $2 for fries or baked potato. Take-outs ners March 16, 23 and 30 from 5-7 p.m. in the par- available. Call 717-453-9931 to order. ish center (school). Visit www.stpeterallyoucaneat- dinners.weebly.com. Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Enola Fish Dinners in the church social hall Fridays Feb. Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Parish in Ely- 24-March 16 from 4-7 p.m. Seasoned baked cod, sburg Lenten Dinners in the Parish Social Hall baked macaroni & cheese, vegetable, cole slaw, roll March 16, 23 and 30 from 4-6:30 p.m. $8.00 per and butter, dessert & coffee or punch. Adults $10, platter includes baked fish, macaroni & cheese, children $5. Eat-in or take-out. stewed tomatoes, mixed vegetables, cole slaw, roll/ butter, dessert and beverage. For info, call 570-672- Please Join Us Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Parish in 2302. Proceeds from the Golf Classic benefit Harrisburg’s Harrisburg Fish Dinners Fridays Feb. 24-March Interfaith Shelter, the only emergency shelter in the 30 from 4:30-7 p.m. Dinners $10, kids’ meals $5. St. Francis Xavier Parish in Gettysburg Lent- capital region that provides services to homeless fami- Eat-in or take-out. Choice of one dinner item (beer- en Fish Fry on March 16 and 30 from 5-7 p.m. at lies. The shelter helps families overcome barriers to battered haddock, baked lemon pepper tilapia, Xavier Center, 465 Table Rock Road. Menu and se- self-sufficiency, and helps to provide clothing, food breaded shrimp, combo haddock & shrimp), one lection vary per week: baked fillet, broiled fillet, and baby supplies, employment and life skills as well side dish (baked potato, fries, macaroni & cheese), fried shrimp, clam strips, spaghetti and shrimp, gar- as mental and physical care. coleslaw and a drink. Children’s dinners include lic bread, salad, hash browns, cole slaw, fruit cup, Schedule of Events: fish sticks or macaroni & cheese with one side and dessert and coffee. Call for exact menu: 717-334- 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Registration and Lunch a drink. Desserts available. Stations of the Cross 4048. Stations of the Cross at 7 p.m. at the Historic 12:30 p.m. Scramble Classic, Shotgun Start after dinner. Contact Joey Rosito at 717-541-1844 Church on High Street. 6 p.m. Dinner, Prizes and Door Prizes or Elizabeth Kotz at 717-574-6294 for details. For event information, registration or sponsorship Divine Redeemer Parish in Mount Carmel questions, contact Christopher Meehan at 717-657- IHM Knights of Columbus Council #13692, Lenten dinners in Divine Mercy Hall from 11 a.m.- 4804, ext. 284 or visit Catholic Charities at www.hbg- Abbottstown, Lenten Fish Dinners at Immacu- 1 p.m. and 4-6 p.m. on March 23, featuring potato diocese.org. Registration deadline is May 4. late Heart of Mary Parish every Friday of Lent cakes at 75 cents each. Eat-in or take-out. 18 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, MARCH 16, 2012

Young Church in Action St. Leo Students Encounter Saints Via Interactive Fair By Alan Schwartz they have of their favorite saints. pating in various games and crafts focusing on certain Special to The Witness The day started with the older grades participat- saints and attaining the holiness needed to become a ing in a Saints Fact Scavenger Hunt. The committee saint. One station was St. Anthony of Padua’s Lost & Students at St. Leo the Great School in Rohrer- creatively used all the Confirmation names (saints, of Found, where children reached into a big bin of balls stown, recently learned about the saints in a most en- course) of the principal, teachers in the school and to find a small prayer book, teaching them about the gaging way. other staff members for this activity. Teams of stu- story of how he became the patron of lost objects. The parent-lead Spiritual Life Committee at Saint dents then tried to find out facts about saints whose The school parent running the station, Lisa Camp- Leo’s, (which every other year puts together their images were posted all over the gymnasium, along bell, mentioned that “It was a blessing to see how well known Vocations Day for the school), began with random facts about each saint on mobile felt interested the students were to hear stories about St. this year their first bi-annual Saints Fair, allowing the dividers. Afterwards, the students viewed the video Anthony of Padua. Even more precious was hearing students exposure in a powerful and engaging way “Champions of Faith,” a program that highlights them share stories of their own prayers to St. Antho- to the lives of the saints. The motivation of the com- some of major league baseball’s biggest stars who ny, and seeing them light up as they relayed those mittee was to create in the off years where there was also are devoted to their Catholic faith and have memories to their friends.” no Vocations Day a fun and engaging opportunity for strong devotions to saints. All children received a rosary, medal, prayer card the children to learn about the lives of our faith’s holy Throughout the day, two individuals were dressed and a connection to a saint who may be a factor and a heroes so that when eighth grade comes around and it as saints, St. Faustina and St. John Bosco, inspired by partner in their most valuable prayers. is time to choose a Confirmation name, there would EWTN’s “Saints Alive” program where adults dress (Alan Schwartz is the Director of Development be no mystery or random method used to do so, but and act as saints to teach children about them. at Parish Ministries at St. Leo the Great in Rohrer- simply for the children to glean from the knowledge The day continued with the younger grades partici- stown.)

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SCOT GORDON Gloria Leone, a second-grader, participates in the St. Anthony “seek-and-find” game, searching for Third-grader Dillon Otto plays a saints bingo game during St. Anthony’s missing prayer book in a bin of balls. a Saints Fair at St. Leo the Great School in Rohrerstown.

Council of Catholic Women Seeks Applicants for Scholarship

The Harrisburg Diocesan Council of Catho- lic Women is offering a $1,000 scholarship to a Catholic senior girl for her freshman year at an accredited college, university, or trade school. She must be sponsored by a mother or grandmother/guardian who is an active member of a Parish Council of Catholic Women for no less than one year, be a resident of the Harrisburg PHOTO SUBMITTED BY JOLENE CALLA Diocese, and must meet all conditions Scouts from Pack 36 in Harrisburg recently sent a collection to the Interfaith established by the Scholarship com- Shelter for Homeless Families and Lourdeshouse Maternity Home in Har- mittee as set forth in its rules and regulations. risburg for their first annual service project. The donations came from col- lections of material goods and financial assistance that the Scouts collected Deadline for submitting applications is May 1. Any- after Masses at St. Margaret Mary and Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament one interested in applying should contact Joyce Scott at Parishes in Harrisburg. Scouts shown in the photo are Jason Slyman, Louis 717-737-0927 or [email protected]. Negron, Shawn Trude, Brian Patrick and Nicholas Patrick. MARCH 16, 2012, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 19

Lengjel Shull has organized this Bishop McDevitt High School & Jump Street Derby Day Hat Pre-Sale. A local boutique, Shirley’s Closet, will be a guest. There will be designs by Gina Shull, MaryAnn Pruden, and Crowning Lori. There will be door prizes, refreshments, and a “free will offering.” The purpose of this event is to raise monetary Compiled by Jen Reed contributions, and the proceeds will benefit education/tuition and the Education, Enrichment & Support arts. It will also help women purchase hats for Bishop McDevitt High Spiritual Offerings The Harrisburg Diocese presents “Teaching the Faith to School’s Derby Day Gala on May 5 at the Hershey Lodge. Children with Disabilities” March 22 at 7 p.m. at the Saint Patrick Children’s Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament will he offered Parish Activity Center in Carlisle. This in-service will provide practical Divine Redeemer Parish in Mount Carmel will be holding a spain St. Joseph’s Adoration Chapel at St. Joseph Church in Lancaster tips for sharing faith with children with disabilities. Parents, Parish C/ ghetti dinner on Palm Sunday, April 1 from 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. in Divine every Tuesday in Lent from 4-5 p.m. There will be song, prayer and DRE’s, Catechists, Priests, Deacons and Parish Advocates are most Mercy Hall. Dinner includes salad, spaghetti & meatballs, dessert, praise. All ages and abilities are welcome; handicap accessible. Call cordially invited to attend. Please contact Jo Ellen Frist at jfrist@ bread & butter and coffee/juice. Tickets are $8 and may be purchased Catechist Mrs. Wang at 717-396-0635 for information. saintpatrickchurch.org or 717-243-4891 for further information. by calling Diane Dallazia at 570-205-8751,at the parish office during office hours, or at the Door. Eat-In or take-out. Please bring your own Mass at St. Vincent de Paul Church in Hanover on March 17 at Women of Grace: The next diocesan Morning of Grace will be containers for take-outs. 5:30 p.m. will feature the Bloom Consort, which has been performing hosted by St. Leo the Great Parish in Rohrerstown March 24 from 9 music of the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries since 1987. a.m.-noon (daily Mass offered at 8). The theme is “Behold the hand- Enrich your Lenten Journey with an evening of inspirational maid of the Lord.” The morning includes continental breakfast, DVD music and prayer. St. Joseph Church in Hanover will host “A Time of Mass in the Polish language will be celebrated March 18 at 2 Meditation, Music and Prayer with Mark Forrest, an international Irish p.m. at St. Catherine Laboure Church in Harrisburg by Father Walter presentation with Johnnette Benkovic as seen on EWTN, personal witness by Sherry Troelsch of the Harrisburg Cursillo Movement, plus Tenor, on April 1 at 6:30 p.m. at the church on Grandview Road. A Sempko. Confessions will be heard after Mass. Eucharistic Adoration and Benediction, with music by Women at the free-will offering will be taken. Call the parish office at 717-637-5236 St. John Neumann Parish in Lancaster will host a three day Well. Donation is $7. RSVP to MaryEllen Genoese at genoese609@ for more information. Lenten Renewal March 19-21, “Good News for Christians,” featuring comcast.net or 717-393-4661 or Vicki Crispo at [email protected] “Courageous” the movie at St. Joseph’s Church in Ha- accomplished professor, counselor, and author, Father Joseph Cur- or 717-757-4295. nover. St. Joseph’s Holy Name Society and DRE will sponsor a free- rie, SJ. The Renewal services will be held each evening, Monday Dr. Michael Barry will present “Release! The Healing Power of showing of the movie, “Courageous,” a highly-acclaimed faith-based through Wednesday, beginning at 7 p.m. A reception will be held in Forgiveness” March 24 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. in St. John Neumann movie, on April 3. The program is open to all adults. The focus of the the St. John Neumann Social Hall after Wednesday evening’s ser- Center in the Main church of St. John the Baptist Church in New movie is on four male police officers who re-evaluate their faith in God vice. There is no charge for the Renewal, though a free-will offering Freedom. This seminar will provide the resources and education that after an unexpected tragedy transforms their lives forever. The movie will be taken. encourage healing through forgiveness. Learning to forgive can posi- will be shown in the Msgr. Gribbin Social Hall from 6-8:30 p.m. Con- tact Deacon Tom Aumen at 717-632-1794 if you have any questions. Mass in the Croatian language will be celebrated March 25 at tively impact one’s physical, mental, spiritual and emotional health. 12:30 p.m. in the Prince of Peace–Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Preregistration is required by March 21. Dr. Barry is the Director of The Tri County Theology on Tap (TOT) group will host a special Mary Church in Steelton. The Croatian Mass for April is scheduled for Pastoral Care of the Cancer Centers of America in Philadelphia. To event with Bishop Joseph P. McFadden April 3 at Knute’s Pub & Grill April 15 at 12:30 p.m. preregister, call 717-235-2156 ext 233 or email [email protected] in Shippensburg. The Tri County group welcomes all young adults by March 21. (over age 21) from the Franklin, Cumberland, and Adams County A Lenten/Easter Cantata, “Lift High the Cross,” will be presented – area to attend an evening of good food, drinks, and meaningful at St. Paul the Apostle Church in Annville March 30 at 7 p.m. It will Third Order Secular Carmelites of Elysburg will meet at Queen on the Most Holy Rosary Parish Hall in Elysburg March 25 at 11:30 conversation. The evening kicks off at 7:30 p.m. with a presentation be performed by the choirs of St. Paul the Apostle Parish. No charge a.m. for their regular monthly meeting. Anyone interested in learning by Bishop McFadden discussing “Separation of Church and State: for admission, however attendees are asked to bring non-perishable about the Third Order and Carmelite Spirituality is invited to attend Does the Church really have a voice in American politics?” followed food items that will be donated to local food banks. the meeting. Contact Meg Geffken at 570-925-6264) or meggef@ by a short Q&A session. Admission is free. To attend, please RSVP to The Mater Dei Latin Mass Community at St. Lawrence Chapel epix.net for information. [email protected]. To view upcoming events and connect in Harrisburg announces its Holy Week schedule: Monday and with other young adults, join our Tri County Theology on Tap Face- Tuesday Mass & Stations at 12 p.m.; Wednesday Mass at 12 p.m.; Events & Fund-Raisers book group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/145724765525360/. Wednesday Stations and Lenten recollection part I with Father Chad St. Joseph Parish in Hanover will host an Indoor Yard Sale in the The Father Joe Celia Memorial 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament Ripperger at 7 p.m.; Holy Thursday Mass at 7 p.m. with sermon and Parish Social Hall March 17 from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. will take place April 13 and 14 in the gym at St. Leo the Great Parish Lenten recollection part II with Father Ripperger; Good Friday Liturgy Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Parish in Harrisburg is in Rohrerstown. Various categories for elementary and high school at 3 p.m.; Saturday Solemn Easter Vigil and Mass at 10 p.m.; Easter students and for adults. Cost is $15 per student, $20 per adult, and all Sunday Solemn Mass at 10 a.m. sponsoring Night at the Casino at Hollywood Casino, Grantville on March 17. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., buffet dinner is served at 6 p.m. proceeds benefit the St. Leo’s Youth ministry and Athletic Association. A re-enactment of the Stations of the Cross, “Born for This,” Tickets are $47 and include dinner, musical entertainment, Irish Step Visit www.fatherjoe3on3.com for event information. will be presented April 1 at 6 p.m. at St. Mother Pauline’s Center in Competition and a $5 voucher. Must be 18 unless accompanied by Trinity High School in Camp Hill will be hosting its annual Spring Kulpmont by “Lift Your Spirits Performing Art Group.” There will be a responsible adult. For tickets and more information, call Pat Thornton Social & Monte Carlo Night on April 14 from 6-10:30 p.m. This event $5 admission charge, and light refreshments. at 717-652-2111 or Linda Rosito at 717-307-8607. All proceeds includes a wide variety of delicious food from area restaurants, re- benefit OLBS Parish. The Good Friday Walking Way of the Cross sponsored by Pax freshments, table games, and silent and live auctions featuring many St. Cecilia’s Parish in Lebanon will hold their annual Easter one-of-a-kind items! In addition, we will be showcasing our talented Christi in Harrisburg will be held April 6 at 10 a.m. The walk will be students – choir, strings, drama, jazz, art, spirit! Cost: $50 per person. held rain or shine, and lasts an hour and a half. Meet at 9:45 a.m. at Bake Sale March 23 from 8 a.m.-1p.m. and March 24tfrom 8 a.m.- noon or sell out. Walnut, poppyseed and apricot strudle will be sold, For more information or to purchase tickets, call the Advancement Front & Market Streets at the Dauphin County Court House. Walking Office at 717-761-2228 or visit www.trinityhs.k12.pa.us. journey with the Cross with current day themes of peace and justice along with sugar cookies. The sale will be held at the social hall at For information, call 717-737-7211 or 717-230-8328. 120 East Lehman St. Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School in Coal Township will Cub Pack 11 of St. Anne Parish in Lancaster will hold a spa- hold an Open House April 15 from 1-3 p.m. For information, call the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in Lebanon school at 570-644-0375. will host a Celebration of Divine Mercy on April 15. The church will ghetti dinner March 23 from 5-8 p.m. in the parish gymnasium. Our remain open following the 9:15 a.m. Holy Mass for personal prayer purpose is to collect enough funds for us to travel to Arlington Nation- The Catholic Women’s Club of York will hold their annual spring with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. Priests from the Lebanon al Cemetery this December to lay wreaths on graves of soldiers as luncheon and fashion show April 21 at the Outdoor Country Club Deanery will be available for confession beginning at 1:15 p.m. The part of “Wreaths across America”. Tickets are $6 a piece and can be of York. Doors open at 11:30 a.m., with lunch at noon. Fashions by Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary will be offered for vocations. A purchased by calling 717-538-1434 or e-mailing pack11fundraiser@ the Shoe Gallery. Raffle drawings, 50/50 cash drawing. Cost is $30 gmail.com. A limited amount of tickets can be purchased at the door. Solemn Holy Hour with the recitation of the Chaplet will begin at 2:30 per person, and proceeds benefit the CWC Scholarship Fund. For p.m. and close with Benediction at 3:30 p.m. For more information The Music Under the Dome Concert Series at Saint Patrick information, call Donna Rogers at 717-792-9113. call the church office at 717-272-5674. Cathedral in Harrisburg will continue March 23 at 7:30 p.m. with the Ronan Tynan in Concert with pianist Bill Lewis on April 29 at 2 presentation of Marcel Dupré’s Le Chemin de la Croix, a depic- p.m. at the Pottsville Area High School Auditorium in Pottsville, Pa. Retreats & Pilgrimages tion of the Stations of the Cross through poetry and music. Cathedral Hosted by St. Patrick Parish in Pottsville. Tickets $30 in advance, $40 Organist Nicholas Basehore will perform the music and Charles “Healing the Wounds of the Heart,” a one-day retreat with at the door. Doors open at 1 p.m. For tickets call Saint Patrick’s Rec- Peguese will read a translation of poetry. A free-will offering will be tory at 570-622-1802 or Kim Norris at 570-628-0883. Johnnette Benkovic, founder of Women of Grace, will take place accepted at the door. April 28 at St. Joseph Church in York from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Registration John Michael Talbot will perform in concert at the Cathedral will begin at 7 a.m., followed by Mass at 8 a.m., praise and worship St. Margaret Mary School in Harrisburg will hold a 5K run/ Parish of St. Patrick in Harrisburg May 11 from 8-10 p.m. to benefit music with “Women at the Well,” talks by Johnnette Benkovic, lunch, walk March 24 at 8:30 a.m. in the Penbrook area surrounding the the ministries of Christian Churches United. Tickets are $35; call 717- an additional talk, Holy Hour, the Sacrament of Reconciliation and school. Various age groups, water stop, support from police, fire and 230-9550 or e-mail [email protected]. a Healing Service. Registration fee is $35, and box lunch is $8. For EMS departments. Race day registration starts at 7 a.m. and closes information, contact Peggy Pritchard at 717-757-1773 or pegpritch@ at 8 a.m. To register, and to learn more about the event, visit www. Parishes & Organizations stmm5k.webs.com. aol.com, or Vicki Crispo at 717-757-4295 or [email protected]. The Catholic Woman’s Club of York is seeking applicants for Registration deadline is April 14. The Saint Anne’s Retirement Community Auxiliary is spon- its annual scholarships. Applicants should be Catholic girls graduat- A Eucharistic pilgrimage to Our Lady of the Angels Monastery soring a Spring Craft Show to benefit the Retirement Community ing in 2012 from a York County high school within the York Deanery. and the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Alabama will be led March 24 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at St. Anne’s Retirement Community A strong commitment to the Catholic faith, a good academic record, by Father Luis Rodriguez, pastor of Mary, Mother the Church Parish in Columbia. Featured will be silk spring flower arrangements and a financial need and the pursuit of a baccalaureate degree are the baked goods table. There will also be a number of craft vendors and in Mount Joy, June 11-15, 2012. Highlights include attendance of an qualifications being sought. Application forms are available at your antiques. Lunch of hot dogs, barbeque, vegetable soup, coffee, and high school guidance office or by calling Patricia Brothman at 717- EWTN live show, tours and daily Mass. Cost is $550. Reserve ASAP. cold drinks will also be available. Contact Karen Morrisette at 717-581-8315 or Nick DiNunzio at 717- 891-3573. Deadline for completed applications is March 31. 566-9759. Holy Name of Jesus School in Harrisburg will hold its 9th an- Masters golf package up for bid at Lebanon Catholic School nual Gala “New Beginnings, Bright Futures” March 24 from 5:30-11 Travel with the Sacred Heart Basilica Pilgrimage Choir on a auction. A premier golf package includes two tickets to a Friday, p.m. at Blue Ridge Country Club. Tickets will be $75 and include a Saturday, or Sunday round and one night’s lodging at the 2013 ten-day pilgrimage to majestic Italy, June 19-28, 2012. Visit Venice, sit down dinner, live/silent auction, and entertainment. To donate, Padua, Florence, Assisi, Rome and Vatican City. Package price Masters Golf Tournament in Augusta, GA. Your Masters experience volunteer or for more information, contact Jennifer at 717-545-0803 also includes access to VIP Sports, Inc. hospitality facility called is $3,450 + departure taxes and fuel surcharges. For information, or [email protected]. contact Jody Richter at [email protected] or call 717- the LODGE, which includes food and drink all day long...as well as massage therapists, golf instructors, putting greens, hand-rolled 524-8684. You do not need to be a member of the choir to go on the St. Columba School in Bloomsburg is sponsoring a “Night at cigars and hand-rolled sushi. The Lebanon Catholic Fundraising pilgrimage. the Races” March 24 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. in the gym and cafeteria. Fun and good food for only $15/person or $25/couple – tickets can Auction will be held April 28 beginning with complimentary cocktails Catholic Italy: Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Enola will host a be purchased at the school and/or Church Offices, after all weekend at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10. For more information, call 717273-3731 or 10 day tour of Catholic Italy. Scheduled to depart New York’s JFK Masses or at the door. Tickets cover the Races, the great food visit www.lebanoncatholicschool.org. Can’t make our event on April Airport on September 4, 2012, the cost of this tour is $3,290 double and drinks, which will include some adult beverages. Other games 28? Call Mrs. Lori Kostow at 717- 273-3731, ext. 312, to submit your occupancy. This price does not include a $98 tax. Cities included on available for a small price are the Money Wheel, Black Jack, Texas sealed auction bid. this tour are Siena and San Gimignano, Pisa, the Venice, Florence, Hold’em Poker, Snap tickets and a Dice table. For more information, Join with the Council of Catholic Women of St. Catherine Assisi, the Vatican Museum and Vatican City where an audience e-mail Mike Weinhofer at [email protected]. Laboure Parish in Harrisburg to share the hopeful message of with the Pope will be held provided the Pope is in residence at that The teens of St. Mary’s Youth Ministry, Lancaster, invite the the Easter Season and provide Easter Dinner meal baskets for our time, and Christian Rome. For additional information, call Ruth at public to a fundraising “Basket Bingo” featuring Longaberger products surrounding community. See the display in the Narthex hall area that 717-732-1049. Must be registered by May 1. March 25 at the Knights of Columbus, 1575 New Danville Pike, shows the needed items and take a donation tag if you would like to John Kashi and Pat Weinhofer from St. Columba Parish in Lancaster. Doors open at noon, games begin at 1 p.m. Proceeds will participate. We are hoping to provide complete Easter meal baskets Bloomsburg present a Pilgrimage to Fatima & Lourdes with Barce- be used to send teens to a work camp in Rhode Island, as well as a including ham, canned vegetables, rice and noodle side dishes, lona scheduled for October 21 – 30, 2012. A trip presentation and youth conference in Ohio. The Basket Bingo will include 20 games boxed potatoes, stuffing, yams, etc. If you have any questions or information session will be held March 29 at 6 p.m. in St. Columba’s of 3-card bingo, four special Basket Bingo games, one 50/50 raffle would like to speak to someone regarding this project, call KC Torta at Parish Center in Bloomsburg. A representative from Collette Vaca- and special door prizes. Most baskets have liners and protectors 717-561-2850. tions will provide a slide presentation and answer questions during and are filled. Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 at the door. A variety The Auxiliary of St. Anne’s Retirement Community in Co- this time. Our local travel agent, Zena Beaver, from Travel Depot of refreshments will be sold. For information or tickets, contact Silvia lumbia is seeking volunteers to assist in the operation of the Gift located in Selinsgrove will also be available to answer ques- Doe at 717-872-8985. Shop which is currently open seven days a week to serve residents, tions and provide information. Please contact John Kashi, A Derby Day Hat Pre-Sale will be held March 25 at the City employees and visitors. Call Joyce Redington at 717-393-7235 or 437-9081 or Pat Weinhofer, 784-2230 with questions. House Bed and Breakfast in Harrisburg from 2-4 p.m. Creator Gina 717-666-5608 for more information. 20 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, MARCH 16, 2012

Faith and Life St. Patrick’s Story Nearly 50 classrooms full of di- relayed to them his own Irish heritage. ocesan students linked in to Bishop “Patrick, the Patron Saint of Ire- Joseph P. McFadden as he read land,” by Tomie dePaola, relates the “Patrick, the Patron Saint of story of Patrick’s life and several well- Ireland” on Read Across America known legends about him, including his Day, March 2. use of the shamrock to explain the Holy The bishop was broadcast live from Trinity. his office at the Cardinal Keeler Cen- “It is important for us to read be- ter in Harrisburg to children across the cause it helps us to learn so much,” diocese who tuned in to watch him read Bishop McFadden told students. “God a story about the Irish saint, who is also wants us to know about different cul- the patron saint of the Diocese of Har- tures and people.” risburg. Read Across America Day, observed “On St. Patrick’s Day, everybody is on the birthday of Dr. Seuss, is an an- Irish because everybody loves St. Pat- nual program that encourages children rick,” the bishop told the students, as he to celebrate reading.

JEN REED, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS

March 18: This week on Catholic Perspective, listeners will hear an update on the very controversial contraception mandate by the Federal Health and Human Services agency that is in volition of our Constitutional Freedom of Religion rights. The update will tell how numerous individuals and lawmak- ers have asked the White House to let people live their faith to the fullest and rescind the contraception mandate. Learn more about this at www.HbgDio- cese.org/Conscience. How would you view God if you tragically lost your entire family? Rob- ert Rodgers did, and is interviewed on the program. He is scheduled to be the guest speaker at the Catholic Men’s Conference 2012 on April 21 at the Lancaster Convention Center. Rodgers shares with listeners portions of his powerful and inspiring story of faith that he will tell in full at the conference. Rodgers lost his wife and family in a tragic flash flood several years ago. He tells how he overcame the tragedy and decided to continue to trust in God. Those interested can learn more at www.MensConference2012.com. Hear an update on the Lenten Pastoral Letter by Bishop Joseph P. McFadden that promotes a renewed approach to the celebration of the Sacrament of Pen- ance and Reconciliation. It and a variety of resources are available at www. hbgdiocese.org to help all to return to the Sacrament this Lent. Items included are background and Church teachings on the topic as well as links to several helpful guides on examination of conscience and how to go to Confession. An update on the progress of the construction of the new Bishop McDevitt High School is offered to listeners. The school expects to be open to students in January 2013. Photo updates are available at www.BishopMcDevitt.org. The Seven Sorrows of Mary is an audio CD appropriate for meditation during Lent. Excerpts from the recording are shared and discussed on this week’s program. Catholic Perspective is produced in cooperation with the Office of Com- munications of the Diocese and WHFY AM 720. This new radio ministry has many needs and opportunities for volunteers both on the air as well as off the air. Find out more by calling 717-525-8110 or visiting www.yourholyfamily- radio.com. The program is heard Mondays and Fridays at 12 noon on WHYF AM 720 and on Sunday mornings on WLAN-AM 1390, Lancaster at 7:30 a.m.; WHYL-AM 960, Carlisle, at 8 a.m.; WHVR-AM 1280, Hanover, at 8 a.m.; WKOK-AM 1070, Sunbury, at 6:30 a.m.; WIEZ-AM 670, Lewistown, at 8 a.m.; WWSM-AM 1510, Lebanon, at 7 a.m.; and WWEC-FM 88.3, Eliza- bethtown, at 9:30 a.m. It is also available on line at www.OldiesRadio1620. com at 6:30 a.m. or for download at www.hbgdiocese.org.