Christmas lights continue to glow at La Salette Shrine, with COVID-19 guidelines

ATTLEBORO — La Jan. 3, 2021. However, there of Fall River, Mass. † Salette Shrine in Attleboro will be many restrictions to Friday, November 27, 2020 has become known assure the good health of throughout New England everyone. and beyond for its display No one will be allowed of religious Christmas on the grounds of the The La Salette Missionaries strongly feel that during this time of pandemic, the traditional Christmas Illuminations are needed more than ever as a sign of hope in these times of loss, stress and anxiety.

Illuminations. Because of Shrine without wearing a COVID-19 and the pan- face mask. Individuals and demic, much thought has family groups will need gone into this year’s event. to respect the mandate After due consultation with for Social Distancing. The the authorities, a decision occupancy of every facility has been made to hold the will be limited according Solar panels in a parking lot at in Easton are providing a very Christmas Illuminations to the mandates of the cost-effective and ecologically safe energy alternative. Projects similar to this are that began on Thanksgiving Commonwealth of Massa- being installed across the diocese at various parishes and schools. (Photo courte- Day and will continue, be- chusetts. This includes the sy of Stonehill College.) ginning at 5 p.m., through 8 Turn to page 10 Some diocesan parishes, schools are looking skyward to efficiently meet their energy needs By Dave Jolivet so stretched the planet’s ca- cese of Fall River with his Editor pacity that our contempo- “Rebuilding in Faith and [email protected] rary lifestyle, unsustainable Hope,” message, outlining ACUSHNET — In as it is, can only precipitate the path the diocese should 2015 released catastrophes.” take to ensure its existence, an encyclical on the en- It was a warning from Spiritually and physically, vironment, “Laudato Si’ the Holy Father that hu- for many years to come. (Praise Be), On the Care mankind should, “clean up In his message Bishop of Our Common Home.” its act.” da Cunha stressed the im- The statue of Christ at La Salette Shrine appears ready In it he said, “The pace of In March of 2017, portance of rebuilding our to welcome visitors to the Festival of Lights, following consumption, waste and Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, diocesan parishes, schools state health guidelines. (Photo by Robert Gillis) environmental change has S.D.V., presented the Dio- 8 Turn to page three Faith Formation ministries reach out to students, families By David G. Carvalho weighed on the minds of parishes. “So many ishes across the diocese have adopted different Diocesan Faith Formation things are cancelled and shut down,” shared program models. As of mid-October, approxi- Senior Director Nate Schaff, director of Youth Ministry for mately 60 percent of parishes adopted a hybrid [email protected] Good Shepherd Parish on Martha’s Vineyard. model, with an additional 33 percent going fully FALL RIVER — As we continue to move “Students are spending more and more time remote. through an unprecedented year, parish Faith on devices, separated from their peers. Now Transitioning to a hybrid model meant Formation and youth ministry programs not more than ever, they need a place to socialize reassessing the use of facilities and putting in only launched but continue to find ways to min- and come together as a community, especially a new program structures. For Santo Christo ister to families. community of faith.” Parish in Fall River, this meant organizing The need to foster a sense of community, en- In trying to balance the need for meaningful students into groups that rotate their presence interaction with safety guidelines, many par- gage isolated individuals, and ensure safety have November8 Turn 27, 2020to page † eight 1 Bishop Connolly High School, In Force Technology and Fall River Police Department join forces as partners in school safety BOSTON — Massa- 9-1-1 calls can take an av- law enforcement arrives. tion window where staff taneously to the dispatch chusetts-based software erage of two to four min- ABOUT IN FORCE and faculty inside a school consoles, in-vehicle termi- company In Force Technol- utes to be routed from the TECHNOLOGY, LLC can provide real-time nals and mobile devices of ogy, LLC has joined forces centralized public safety School safety has al- intelligence-sharing with police officers in the field with Bishop Connolly answering point (PSAP) ways been the mission of each other and with po- regardless of duty status, High School and the Fall to the closest responding In Force Technology. Its lice officers responding avoiding the call routing River Police Department to agency, lengthening the leading-edge software ap- to an active threat. When process. First respond- protect the school’s stu- time for first re- seconds matter ers also have immediate dents and staff in the event sponders to get most, reducing access to a school’s digital of an active threat. Teach- on scene. The response time building schematics, aerial ers and faculty will now second under- and increasing photos, emergency opera- have the ability to immedi- lying problem communication tional plans, and Internet ately notify first responders at-risk facilities is the goal of IN protocol (IP)-based camera at the Fall River Police face is the in- FORCE911. feeds, which are integrated Department of an active ability to effec- The IN through the IN FORCE911 threat and communicate tively commu- FORCE911 soft- application to plan the best directly with them during nicate with each ware application approach for ending the the event to provide mis- other from inside the same plication, IN FORCE911, empowers school faculty, threat. sion-critical details needed building and to collective- enables an alert to reach staff and administrators The two-way commu- to end the threat as soon as ly provide specific details all internal staff and re- with the ability to launch nication window enables possible. of an active threat to law sponding agencies in less an alert from any device in those experiencing the PROBLEM WITH enforcement, causing than four seconds; in seconds, rather than min- threat to share informa- LEGACY 9-1-1 additional time delays and addition, the app provides utes. IN FORCE911 sends tion; as a result, school staff Traditionally placed leading to confusion when a two-way communica- alerts and messages simul- 8 Turn to page 12

2 † November 27, 2020 Diocesan parishes, schools look skyward for energy School in Acushnet and St. collaborate on an exhibit continued from page one Mary’s Parish in New Bed- at the school to enable the ford plan to install rooftop students to learn about the and ministries “Spiritually engineering, local zoning solar experts, Forefront En- systems, having the panels solar panels showing up on and materially,” and for issues, and interconnecting ergy and Resonant Energy, installed on the roof of a their roof. these institutions to become with the grid managed by to assist in the larger-scale particular structure on the Madeleine Barr is the “financially sustainable.” local utilities. All that has to process now going on. parish or school campus. liaison between Resonant On the “material” be resolved before a project Forefront Energy is Sacred Heart Nursing and the diocese. She told aspect of the rebuilding can physically begin.” contracted for the projects Home in New Bedford will The Anchor, “I love the process, the diocesan Harrington also added at St. Pius X Parish in South have carport and rooftop idea of doing an educa- Finance Office, along with that the process, as compli- Yarmouth and Our Lady of systems. tional activity with the the Catholic Schools Office cated as it is, is a win-win Grace Chapel, at Holy Re- According to Har- students at St. Francis to and a number of volunteers, dynamic for the diocese, deemer Parish in Chatham. rington, the Cape projects help connect them to the began looking at oppor- parishes and schools in- St. Pius X plans on are currently awaiting equipment being installed tunities to assist parishes volved. “In addition to the installing solar carports. results of an interconnection on their building. In the and schools. It is with this economic value add, the An illustration of this type group study at Eversource past, we’ve shared some plan in mind that solar savings to our environment of solar field can be found Energy, one of the largest resources with the teachers energy cropped up in many are dramatic. We also saw on page one. The size will energy providers in parts and have explored putting conversations as a way of a monitor in the lobby or producing efficient and a “In addition to the economic value add, the savings to our environment a classroom that shows the more cost-effective way to are dramatic. We also saw this as an opportunity to teach our school production of solar on a produce electricity in par- children about the benefits of renewable energy.” — Joseph Harrington, graph. One of our partners ishes and schools. director, diocesan Finance Office had their students make Not only did this en- their own graphs that were deavor fall into line with of eastern Massachusetts. hung in the hallways that Bishop da Cunha’s hopes this as an opportunity to be scaled down from the “They hope to have the re- matched how solar produc- for parish entities to be- teach our school children example shown, but the port by the spring/summer tion correlated to different come financially sustain- about the benefits of renew- theory is the same. The of 2021,” Harrington told weather conditions. There able, but it also meshed able energy.” panels are installed in the The Anchor. “It normally are lots of options available nicely with Pope Francis’ And one didn’t have to parking lot, and they serve takes three to four months to explore.” message in Laudato Si’. look far to find a great solar a dual purpose; they absorb for construction and testing, Harrington also reached Since the brainstorming energy success story with- the sun’s energy and they so we’re looking at the end out to a colleague, Pe- sessions that began three in the diocese. Stonehill also provide shelter from of 2021 before operational. ter Rusin, with whom he years ago with regards to College in Easton, the only the elements for cars and It does show just how long shared a Christian Leader- the practicality of pursuing Catholic college in the di- faithful when at the parish. it can be to get such projects ship Institute (CLI) expe- solar energy projects for the ocese has, since 2014, been The project at Our complete.” diocese, great strides have utilizing and expanding Lady of Grace Chapel in 8 Turn to page seven As for the other proj- been made on that front. solar energy sources on its Chatham will be ground ects west of the Cape, the Joseph Harrington, campus. mount, meaning the pan- hope is to have construc- director of the diocesan Fi- Craig Binney, associate els will be installed on the tion begin at the end of this nance Office, recently told vice president for Finance grounds of the location not year or in early 2021. The Anchor about several and Operations at the being utilized. Harrington also told solar energy projects that school, told The Anchor, Resonant Energy is in The Anchor that he hopes are well off the ground in that encompassing all its charge of the projects on the St. Francis Xavier School Acushnet, New Bedford, solar farm and other panels other side of the bridges. and Resonant Energy can South Yarmouth, and “generate nearly seven mil- St. Francis Xavier Chatham. lion kWh (kilowatt-hours) “We began the search to annually, which is approxi- learn what we could do on mately 40 percent of Stone- a diocesan level to support hill’s annual usage.” All told, a group of our parishes and Binney estimates the college schools,” he said. “will save $3.2 million over “It’s not an quick and the next 15 years.” easy process. The eco- Also, several schools nomics include state and and parishes in the diocese federal incentives that can have completed or initiated be very complicated. You projects of their own. also need a partner that can Harrington and his staff help navigate issues around have reached out to two

November 27, 2020 † 3 The Provident Hand of God onscious of the Christmas God as sculptor, the possibilities each of us a unique vessel ready tle reminder of God’s love and music emanating from are endless. As St. Luke reminds to help God with specific tasks so support for each of us. God has a the Cstudents’ party down the hall, us, “For nothing will be impossible as to help transform the world. I plan. Even if one does not imme- I focused upon my work. I knew with God” (Lk 1:37). have since come to associate the diately see the way forward, one a student had entered, but I kept For most of my life, my per- Japanese art of Kintsugi with that must simply trust in the guiding my eyes on the paper hoping he’d spective was simply to endure dif- philosophy. In Kintsugi, a golden Hand of God.” let me continue. The senior asked, ficult situations. A Provident God lacquer is used to mend pottery. St. Theodore Guerin also said, “What are you up to?” I put my would pick one up from the dust. By its very imperfections, the once “We are not called upon to do all red pen down knowing grading Difficulties seemed a painful way cracked pot is transformed to a the good that is possible, but only would have to wait. He then asked, God chiseled away then smoothed unique and beautiful piece. that which we can do.” Facing a with a tone of fear in his voice, rough edg- Know- difficult situation, one can ask hypothetically what would happen es. ing one oneself — what is it that I might if someone did “X.” I recognized One is trea- be called to do here? both the courage that took as well thing that sured and Back to my student, I knew as the foolishness of action “X.” moved me has been that he would be safe. He knew his Today, I am remembering his to rethink uniquely decision had been a poor one. He boyish smile as he stood before that was a prepared was scared. I recognized his trust me. In our own way, based upon painting for and in me. The real issue was discuss- our own poor choices, each of where the chosen to ing sometimes one needs to stop us is akin to that young man in artist had face that to think before acting. Was the having issues to discuss. Have captured the craftsman’s loving situation encourages creativi- best persuader a call to his parents, you ever wondered why Advent care for his creation. Reflect- ty. Also, one need not fear one’s detention, or talking with him? is about penance and sacrifice? ing upon that image shifted my action may not be sufficient. In all I said today I was too busy for Advent allows us time to reflect thoughts away from the pain of the passages regarding judgment, discussing hypotheticals. I waited. upon who we have been and who difficulties to wondering what the only those who refuse to act are Again, that disarming smile as he we might be. Christmas Day as we craftsman might hope emerged called to account. Challenges sim- admitted he had actually done it. commemorate mankind receiving from the situation. I began to ex- ply become opportunities to help We began our discussion with the God’s gift of Salvation, within our perience challenges in a different God transform the world. question what is the power of the imperfect being, we need to find light. “St. Theodore Guerin came to words “I dare you to do it?” Why the courage to smile and stand Second, I brought my friend America in 1840 to form a mission did they put reason on hold? We humbly before God. Sister Claire Dumont, SS.CC. to and school in Indiana. Her advice went on to discuss one important When we examine the clash a retreat entitled “Cracked Pots: to her fledgling community was, thing for an adult was to learn between who we have been and A Spirituality of Receptivity.” The “If you lean with all your weight from mistakes. A good start was who we could be, we may despair essence of that imagery was that upon Providence you will find imagining a different answer. For at where to start or even if change those cracks and chips (and the yourself well supported.” Let us him, what might be an acceptable is possible. However, with a loving experiences behind them) made reflect upon one early challenge way to refuse an I dare you? her community faced. The 1842 As the student left, I glanced harvest was sufficient to provide up at the cross. I hoped I had for the winter. On October 2, ar- accomplished all that was needed. son destroyed the barn, the entire I walked past the now calm party. harvest, and the carts and plows! Returning to my desk, there was St. Guerin’s words convey her faith peace in my heart as I picked up in a carrying through, not a pro- my pen to continue my grading. tection from, difficulties. Today, Anchor columnist Dr. Helen J. as together we suffer through the Flavin, Ph.D., is a Catholic scien- pandemic, her words are a gen- tist, educator and writer.

† Diocese of Fall River † OFFICIAL Appointment

His Excellency, the Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D., Bishop of Fall River, has made the following appointment:

Reverend John A. Perry, P.A., Administrator of Our Lady of Victory Parish in Centerville, Our Lady of the Assumption Parish in Osterville, and Our Lady of Hope Chapel in West Barnstable.

Effective: December 1, 2020

4 † November 27, 2020 Our duty and Salvation n December we will buried almost as many bodies ready have been challenging, Baptism or a funeral. To thank countered Jesus the way he did mark the 400th anniver- in the ground as they had government restrictions and God in all places and times is and may never have received saryI of the Pilgrims’ disem- taken baskets of food from it. public censure of private gath- not just what we owe to the the gift of Salvation by faith. barking in Plymouth, Mass. Yet they were able to thank erings for Thanksgiving and God Who gives us life but it In normal times, some What they endured, and how God so heartily in spite of the the Advent season as poten- is also our Salvation. We are of us would be candidates for the responded Spiritually suffering they had undergone tially super-spreader events saved through thanksgiving. honorary doctoral degrees to it, are guides for us as we because they believed those threaten to rob many of the We see this in the dra- in complaining. The glass is mark the national holiday of hardships and blessings were traditions that annually help matic Gospel scene of Jesus’ never full enough. The beach Thanksgiving and begin to both part of God’s direct or to counteract complaining, healing of the 10 lepers (Lk is too sunny. The water is too formulate year-end reflec- permissive will. Their person- pessimism and despair. 17:1-11). He cured 10, but wet. When we’re asked about tions. al and communal suffering Yet, even if it is going only one returned to express how we’re doing, we can When the Pilgrims low- could not shake their trust to require far greater effort gratitude. Jesus’ question, grumble about a slight tooth- ered the anchor in Plymouth in the God they knew loved to cultivate and live with an “Ten were cleansed, were ache rather than express our Harbor on Dec. 16, 1620 and them and was looking over attitude of gratitude, it is even they not? Where are the other gratitude that our eyes, ears, disembarked two days later, them. more important this year than nine?,” shows the concern nose and every joint of our they were filled with hope. They convened not of an insecure body is without pain. Some They had survived a perilous full of gratitude egomaniac obsessed might even complain about three-month journey on an because they real- with people’s appreci- the menu at the Last Supper. inhospitable Atlantic with ized they were on a ating His generosity That’s why it’s essential for only one casualty. Their inces- pilgrimage not only and entering into us to learn and live with hearts sant prayers for a safe arrival to Plymouth but His debt, but rather lifted up to God in gratitude, had been heard. They had fi- to Paradise. Every- of a Redeemer Who since gratitude is a precondi- nally landed in the new world thing — adverse or wanted to give a far tion to receive what God de- and were ready to begin a new propitious, life and greater gift than the sires to give. God has directly life. Little did they know the even death — was healing of leprosy. willed or permitted everything year that would await them. somehow, they knew, part of in times of normal adversity Only the grateful leper would that has happened to us, since Of the 103 who disem- God’s plans for them on their and blessing. Thanksgiving receive the gift of Salvation even out of the humanly in- barked, 52 would die before journey not merely to the new comes easily when the bless- since only he had a heart open auspicious God seeks to draw winter was over. Governor world but to a New World. ings are abundant. When, as to receive it, only he had the Spiritual good. “Everything,” John Carver, their leader, That final destination, and the Pilgrims learned, thanks sense that the Giver was even St. Paul reminds us, “works succumbed quickly to fever. their faith in the God’s guid- are given during adversity, the greater than the healing He out for the good for those who Ten of the 17 husbands and ing and awaiting them, gave spirit of gratitude has a chance had bestowed. love God” (Rom 8:28). fathers died. Fourteen of their meaning to the sufferings and to become more extensive and The other nine likely So a few practical lessons: 17 wives also perished. The joys along the way. existential, as we begin to see looked at their disease and The first is to make sure young wife of soon-to-be Likewise, little did any of Divine caresses in the midst of even their cure with residual our prayer heavily features Governor William Bradford us know the year that await- crosses and learn to appreciate anger toward God, as if they praise and thanksgiving to drowned in Plymouth harbor ed us as the ball dropped in far more things that on sunny had somehow been sadistical- God, rather than just petition, before even reaching shore. Times Square to inaugurate days we are prone to take for ly chosen for years of unjust intercession and contrition. Those who avoided the grave 2020. From past experience granted. punishment. They likely The second is to fight to remained in grave danger we recognize that each year There’s a very important looked at their healing the overcome the temptation to because of fevers, famine and will have ups and downs, dialogue that happens in the way people might view getting obsess about what we don’t freezing temperatures. Yet but few anticipated that the heart of every Mass. After the released by a kidnapper: while have rather than to thank God they never gave up hope. present year would seem to priest and people pray that grateful for their liberation, for what we do. In March came the arrival recapitulate the Book of Job: God will be with each other they wouldn’t send thank-you The third is to learn to of English-speaking Squan- a worldwide plague with its and help them lift up their notes to the one who had held thank God even for the things to, who taught them various massive physical suffering, hearts to Divine realities, the them in bondage. the world considers curses, survival tactics, like how to death and mourning; the priest says, “Let us give thanks The grateful leper’s soul because like with the grateful distinguish between poison- collateral damage from the to the Lord our God” and the hadn’t been destroyed by a leper, they can become for ous and good plants, to tap pandemic’s attendant eco- people respond, “It is right leprosy of bitterness, com- us relative blessings through maple trees for sap, to fertilize nomic, educational, cultural, and just.” Underlining that plaining, cursing, or ingrat- bringing us into life-changing soil with dead fish and to transportational and even truth, the priest turns to God itude. He probably thanked communion with the Savior. plant corn and beans. When Spiritual lock-downs; riots the Father and prays, “It is God for all the little things he “In all circumstances give that soil produced a modest in our streets flowing from right and just, our duty and received from His hands, like thanks,” St. Paul tells us, “for harvest a few months later, unhealed racial harmony and Salvation, always and every- the generosity of people who this is the Will of God for you they organized a feast not just destructive rage; and widening where to give You thanks.” would provide food or share a in Christ Jesus” (1 Thes 5:18). to thank Squanto, Samoset, political chasms that are desta- To thank God always and kind word. When he received Fulfilling that Divine vocation Massasoit and their large fam- bilizing the country, turning everywhere is the right thing the big grace of his cure, he is our duty and Salvation as ilies, but principally to thank fraternity into enmity, and to do, whether on beautiful did what he probably always well as the way we can best God for all His blessings since putting our common future days or torrential downpours, did and sought to thank the serve and help others at the their arrival. at risk, since a nation divided when we feel like a million Giver. And over time he end of a difficult year. The 51 survivors easily against itself cannot stand. bucks or are in the ICU, when doubtless grew to thank God Anchor columnist could have looked at the pre- If gratitude during this we receive promotions and bo- even for his years of leprosy, Father Roger Landry can be vious 11 months as the worst time of widespread anxiety nuses at work or get pink slips, because if he hadn’t been a contacted at fatherlandry@ year of their lives. They had and foreboding would al- when we are in Church for a leper, he may never have en- catholicpreaching.com.

November 27, 2020 † 5 Editorial Good and bad shepherds In our last edition of The Anchor, due to the publishing deadline, we were You did not strengthen the weak nor heal the sick nor bind up the injured. You only able to put one paragraph into the editorial regarding the sad and frus- did not bring back the strayed nor seek the lost, but you lorded it over them trating report issued by the regarding the climb through the Cath- harshly and brutally. So they were scattered for lack of a shepherd, and became olic hierarchy of Theodore McCarrick, who went from being a priest of the food for all the wild beasts. My sheep were scattered and wandered over all the Archdiocese to eventually becoming the cardinal of mountains and high hills; my sheep were scattered over the whole earth, with Washington, all the while preying upon minors and seminarians. no one to look after them or to search for them” (Ez 34:2-6). McCarrick has now been removed from the clerical state but the grave What Ezekiel reported from the Lord points out the injury to the en- injury that he did both to his direct victims and to the entire Mystical Body tire community through these attacks upon individuals. The abusers and of Christ (all the faithful members of the ) is far from being their enablers weren’t giving appropriate pastoral care during these years of healed. As the report details, many other clergymen were complicit in the abuse and in the aftermath even more souls have been pushed away from the crimes that McCarrick committed, by their actions or inaction. Church. Think of all the people scandalized by such horrors who have stated Our bishop, Most Rev. Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., commented on the re- that they will never darken the doors of a Catholic church! port in his November 11 statement. “The McCarrick case is a very disturbing Mindful of this reality, Bishop da Cunha wrote, “As we reflect on the matter for the Church especially here in the United States, and the report is inadequate responses by Church leaders detailed in the report, as bishop I a difficult and painful reminder of past failure. The 400-page long document am firmly resolved to do all I can to protect any child or vulnerable adult will take some time to read and reflect upon. I believe it is imperative to from any person acting under the authority of the Diocese of Fall River. To understand and fully acknowledge the grave mistakes and faults of the past, support that mission, I have expanded our Safe Environment Enterprise to no matter how embarrassing or scandalous, in order to ensure that they are oversee preventative efforts, a comprehensive response to any allegation of never repeated.” misconduct or abuse and, through our Victim Assistance Coordinator, pro- Bishop da Cunha also noted a sad reality: “The scourge of clerical sexual vide ongoing pastoral support.” abuse and misconduct has touched every diocese in the nation and continues Besides being the month in which we pray especially for the dead, No- to affect us all deeply. The impact, sadly, is greatest on the victims who have vember begins with Vocations Awareness Week. St. Augustine, in his ser- suffered tremendously. I ask you to join with me in prayer for those victims mon, “On Pastors,” discussed good shepherds. “I find that all good shep- of abuse who have been grievously harmed by members of our Church.” herds are one in the One Shepherd. It is not that good shepherds are lacking; In the Bible shepherds are warned repeatedly of the Lord’s punishment they are there in the One Shepherd,” who is Christ. for those who mistreat the flock, telling us that it would “be better for him Offering us hope, St. Augustine added, “Do not imagine that there will if a great millstone were put around his neck and he were thrown into the be no more good shepherds, or that we shall find them lacking, or that the sea” (Mk 9:42). Lord’s mercy will not produce and establish them. But all good shepherds In the Old Testament book of the prophet Zechariah, God announced that are one in the One Good Shepherd; they form a unity. If only they feed the a “foolish shepherd” will come along “who will take no note of those that sheep, Christ is feeding the sheep. Christ Himself is the shepherd when they disappear, nor seek the strays, nor heal the injured, nor feed the exhausted; act as shepherds. ‘I feed them,’ He says, because His voice is in their voice, but he will eat the flesh of the fat ones and tear off their hoofs!” This is an apt His love in their love.” description of the destruction which has been wrought upon the Christian Through our Baptisms, we are all made members of the flock, but also community by all of this abuse and complicity. Think of all the innocent peo- made shepherds in Christ the Good Shepherd — whether we are called to ple upon whom crimes were committed by men supposedly of God! shepherd our family members, our co-workers, our neighbors, or people we This past Sunday we heard in the first reading God condemning evil shep- just meet once in a store. In the Church some are called to shepherd full- herds. “Woe to the shepherds of Israel who have been pasturing themselves! time as members of the clergy. We ask all the great saints who were good Should not shepherds, rather, pasture sheep? You have fed off their milk, worn shepherds while on earth to pray for us, to help us imitate Christ and heed their wool, and slaughtered the fatlings, but the sheep you have not pastured. His command to St. Peter, “Feed my sheep” (Jn 21:17).

OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE Daily Readings † December 5 - December 18 DIOCESE OF FALL RIVER Vol. 64, No. 23 Sat. Dec. 5, Is 30:19-21,23-26; Ps 147:1-6; Mt 9:35—10:1,5a,6-8. Sun. Dec. 6, www.anchornews.org Second Sunday of Advent, Is 40:1-5,9-11; Ps 85:9-14; 2 Pt 3:8-14; Mk 1:1-8. Mon. Published biweekly except for one week in autumn by the Catholic Press of the Diocese of Fall River, 887 Highland Avenue, Fall River, Mass. 02720, Dec. 7, Is 35:1-10; Ps 85:9ab,10-14; Lk 5:17-26. Tue. Dec. 8, Feast of the Immac- Tel. 508-675-7151; FAX 508-675-7048; email: [email protected]. To subscribe to The Anchor online visit https://www.fallriverdiocese.org/subscribe ulate Conception, Holy Day of Obligation, Gn 3:9-15,20; Ps 98:1-4; Eph 1:3-6,11- Subscription price by mail, prepaid $29.00 per year for U.S. addresses. 12; Lk 1:26-38. Wed. Dec. 9, Is 40:25-31; Ps 103:1-4,8,10; Mt 11:28-30. Thu. Please send address changes to The Anchor, PO Box 318, Congers, NY 10920, call or use email address. Dec. 10, Is 41:13-20; Ps 145:1,9-13ab; Mt 11:11-15. Fri. Dec. 11, Is 48:17-19; Ps PUBLISHER – Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D. 1:1-4,6; Mt 11:16-19. EXECUTIVE EDITOR Sat. Dec. 12 Zec 2:14-17 or Rv 11:19a; 12:1-6a,10ab; Lk 1:26-38 or Lk 1:39- Very Reverend Richard D. Wilson, V.G. [email protected] 47. Sun. Dec. 13, Third Sunday of Advent, Is 61:1-2a,10-11; (Ps) Lk 1:46- 50,53-54; 1 Thes 5:16-24; Jn 1:6-8,19-28. Mon. Dec. 14, Nm 24:2-7,15-17a; Ps EDITOR/PRODUCTION MGR. ADVERTISING David B. Jolivet Wayne R. Powers 25:4-5ab,6,7bc,8-9; Mt 21:23-27. Tue. Dec. 15, Zep 3:1-2,9-13; Ps 34:2-3,6-7,17- [email protected] [email protected] 19,23; Mt 21:28-32. Wed. Dec. 16, Is 45:6c-8,18,21c-25; Ps 85:9ab,10-14; Lk POSTMASTERS send address changes to The Anchor, PO Box 318, Congers, N.Y. 10920. 7:18b-23. Thu. Dec. 17, Gn 49:2,8-10; Ps 72:1-4ab,7-8,17; Mt 1:1-17. Fri. Dec. THE ANCHOR (USPS-545-020) Periodical Postage Paid at Fall River, Mass. 18, Jer 23:5-8; Ps 72:1-2,12-13,18-19; Mt 1:18-25. 6 † November 27, 2020 Parishes, schools look skyward for energy lic Social Teaching and care for The pope said, “When we de- continued from page three Creation while reducing our costs, stroy Creation, we destroy that sign rience, and is now involved with parish finance councils, parish which is something everyone can of God’s love.” Not an option in the Faith Energy Investors (FEI), a na- councils, parishioners, pastors and get behind,” said Rusin. Diocese of Fall River. tional firm that helps Catholic and principals because it was crucial faith-based organizations reduce they be actively engaged. Their in- their energy costs, “so that more sights were critical and we wanted Happy 90th Birthday to funds can be spent on carrying out to make sure that they knew 100 the true mission of the Church.” percent of the savings go to the Sister Rita Teasdale! Rusin told The Anchor that stakeholders, them.” Eversource was a great fit for solar Harrington said all involved Thank you for energy for the three off-Cape proj- were shown, “Here are the savings ects. “I was asked to find if solar you’re going to see.” your service to the was an option to the Church and In the recent “State of the only four areas of the country made Diocese of Fall River Report,” one bishops and priests sense, i.e. where we could guaran- of the Cost Savings Initiatives tee savings for the Church,” he said. — 2014-19 (and beyond), was of our diocese for so One of the four areas was in the a projected $7.2M in Diocesan Fall River Diocese. Organized Solar Initiatives. “This many years! He said Eversource is a good represents the economic benefit of fit because, “First the incentives the diocesan solar projects over the are a high and secondly the ability next 25 years.” It seems the journey to assign the electricity to multiple to that goal is well underway. accounts, not just the property the According to the EPA’s “Green- system is located on, ensures the house Gas Equivalencies Calcu- Church will never be at risk. lator,” the new solar projects will “The systems being installed are offset the equivalent of 3,000,000 called community solar systems, in pounds of coal or 277,000 gallons that the electricity can be sold to of diesel fuel burned each year. If other Eversource customers. This you add in the projects completed is important, as it allowed for larger at the parish level and Stonehill systems to be constructed which College, the benefits increase. Har- lowered the overall cost per unit of rington stated, “If you include all of electricity generated and provides our solar projects we safely estimate another safety mechanism. that the Diocese of Fall River is the “Now these buildings are able largest private non-profit producer to take advantage of the energy of solar energy in the state.” efficiency programs (MassSaves is The marriage of the pope’s also the best efficiency program Laudato Si’ and the bishop’s “Re- in the country) and double their building in Faith and Hope,” does operational savings. A true win- indeed appear to be a win-win fact win, if this sounding too good to of life. be true, it is legitimate and yes, it is “The real benefit to community amazing and that is why I pressed solar, beside financial security, is my contacts to meet with Joe that it truly is Laudato Si’ in ac- [Harrington] and Jim [Bouchard, tion,” added Rusin. “Other parishes Chancery Finance Office] as soon or schools in Eversource territory as I could. As I said, my organiza- can get a subscription for part of tion looks to reduce operating costs the array and participate in the for the Church and part of my job electric cost savings. Additionally, is to find the best markets and the businesses or parishioners can also Diocese of Fall River is in the best participate in community solar market for solar and efficiency in programs and save money without the entire country. 2020 does bring having to put solar on their roof some good news once in a while.” and have an opt out option. Harrington told The Anchor “It really can be a catalyst to that prior to all of the active proj- reach parishioners in a different ects taking flight, “We met with way. We can practice Catho-

November 27, 2020 † 7 Faith Formation ministries reach out to students, families with masks and spread out in the upcoming Liturgical continued from page one in the Sanctuary. As of now, season. between in-person and Parish, the use of digital difficult questions, includ- their Christmas Pageant In conjunction with remote learning. “Each programs allows them to ing how to apply faith to will make use of the entire new approaches to ministry, group meets in house every focus more on students and their lives. “We want to give church to allow for partici- parishes worked to improve other week”, shared Ozzie prepare for any potential [students] a space and com- pants to socially distance. communication with fam- Pacheco, who serves as the closures. Schaff explained munity to dive into their Renee Dee, who serves ilies. While Santo Christo director of Faith Formation that most of their students faith,” Schaff explained. “I as the director of Religious Parish sees its students less at Santo Christo. “This has have opted for in–person want our students to ask Education at Our Lady of in-person this year, they enabled us to have much meetings and that using the hard questions of us as the Cape, shared that, after have kept in touch with smaller class sizes (no more digital programs took teachers and catechists, oth- a tentative start, volunteer families more consistently. than eight students per “some of the pressure off erwise they will go looking teachers are “now enjoying “This pandemic has offered class), thus keeping with when planning and running elsewhere.” This is, in part, generating creative and us a very special blessing — safety guidelines during this our gatherings so we can because “on top of every- educational videos like communication with par- pandemic.” focus more on building re- thing going on in the lives seasoned professionals.” ents has been at an all-time Moreover, their at- lationships, which is crucial of students and families, They transitioned gather- high”, Pacheco shared. home component has to meaningful youth minis- COVID has created another ings to their hall (to allow A similar sentiment was been positively received. try.” Using digital programs barrier we have to get past. for more space), with stu- echoed by Dee. Our Lady “Every week we have also “makes it easy for those We have faced the challenge dents grouped by age and of the Cape grew its live- more and more parents/ who are at home while also head on by talking about attending in-person every stream capabilities and so- families becoming aware giving us a backup in case the problem of evil with four weeks. In the inter- cial media presence, while that we have started”, said the situation worsens and our students and discussing im, families enjoy at home instituting text-notifications Pacheco. “What they are we need to cease gathering how to invite God to be lessons through both the and weekly email blasts, most excited about is that [in-person].” with us in our difficulties.” program’s YouTube channel which Dee points out has they are provided with all Part of their pastoral The challenges of this and materials picked-up via been well received by even the resources they need to response has focused on Fall have also meant cel- a drop box. Families were more seasonal attendees of continue Faith Formation at providing opportunities ebrating old traditions in also able to come and enjoy the Cape parish. “Overall,” home.” for teens to process their new ways. At Our Lady family learning centers, Dee said, “feedback from For Good Shepherd current realities and to ask of the Cape in Brewster, which were spaced out parishioners and students for instance, their annual throughout the hall’s class- include comments that they reenactment of the appa- rooms for single family use. still feel connected while rition of Our Lady of La Now, the parish is planning they are away.” Salette continued, albeit for a hybrid Advent book While parishes, min- club to enrich parishioners istries, and programs have seen changes, Schaff, Pacheco, and Dee all seem to agree that their mission remains the same. “We are not just trying to impart information about God or the Church to our students”, shared Schaff, “but to lead them to truly become disci- ples of Jesus who seek Him daily.” And until an end to the pandemic arrives, Dee pointed out, “ministry con- tinues — in creative ways we would not have imag- ined or attempted pre-pan- demic.” Because, despite all the uncertainty and surpris- es 2020 brought, “we have been given an opportunity to ‘reach out’ to those who hunger and thirst to know Jesus,” said Pacheco. “Let’s not waste that opportunity, especially now.” David Carvalho: [email protected].

8 † November 27, 2020 To parents s a parent trying what we’re doing is right; enting asks of us. and you can’t give your need and reveal to them Ato make sense to wonder if we know We are asked to “ac- kids everything you the true gift of Christmas: of 2020 and wondering what we are doing at all. cept children lovingly wanted to give them, and Emmanuel, Christ with how to make the next Please, don’t do that. from God” and “bring in the way you wanted to us. few weeks special for my Don’t compare. Don’t them up according to give it. P.S. And when you are kids — especially for my subject yourself to that. the law of Christ and His Love your family and drained, lean on God Who daughter’s first Thanks- Sure, there are love the Lord. is our Father. Let Him love giving and Christmas always things we Pray with your you, feed you in the Sacra- ­— I wanted to offer some can do better and family. Pray for ments, and show you who thoughts I’ve worked we should always your family. And, you really are. through in prayer and be learning. most important- Anchor columnist reflection. I don’t know But the fact ly, let them know David Carvalho is the who needs to hear this, that a parent asks you are praying senior director for Faith but here it goes. the question “Am for them. Formation, Youth, Young As parents, we want I doing good Because when Adult and Family Life to give everything to our enough,” or “Are my kids Church.” you love them and help Ministries for the Diocese kids — the very best — so loved,” means that they So love your kids. them love God, you’ll of Fall River. Contact: that they can succeed and take the vocation of par- Love them with all you give them everything they [email protected]. become who they were enthood seriously. have. Love them like God meant to be. And, as Steven Fur- loves them. But we can be our tick once put it, only “my There will always be own worst enemies. Maker is my mirror.” So work to do. There will While the present age look to what our Maker always be another Zoom. allows us to access a asks of us instead. Be there will never be an- plethora of information In the Catholic Rite of other one of your child. in an instant, it also fuels Marriage, the bride and And if you work to an all too human desire: groom are asked a series ensure anything, help to compare and judge. of questions before the them to be saints. Be- We can be tempted to consent of the Marriage cause, as novelist Léon compare ourselves to the vows. One of these is: Bloy once wrote, in the family down the street, “Are you prepared to end, “The only real sad- the “other” parent, the accept children lovingly ness, the only real failure, professional “mommy from God and to bring the only great tragedy in blogger,” and feel as if we them up according to life, is not to become a are failing as a parent; as the law of Christ and His saint.” if everyone else seems to Church?” The world does not be “doing parenting right” Notice what it doesn’t need more perfect scores. while we lag behind. say. It doesn’t need more per- This can be especially It doesn’t say that we fect resumes. Right now tempting in the midst of a need to be like the family (and always) it needs holy pandemic, where parents down the street, or en- men and women of God. have juggled a variety of sure that our kids have So don’t compare roles and changes, while top marks on reading and yourself to the parent being concerned with math, or that this holiday blogger or to what the how all of this affects season is picture perfect. “other” parent is doing their children’s well-be- Nope. None of that. right now, when you are ing. Yes, I recognize that overwhelmed and feel The most used ad- these are not necessarily like you can’t keep it to- jectives I hear are “over- bad things. But they’re gether. The grass is always whelmed,” “stressed” and not everything. And greener on the other side. “uncertain.” they’re not what the voca- Don’t worry if this And so we can begin tion of Marriage, and by year’s Thanksgiving and to compare; to wonder if virtue of that, what par- Christmas are different

November 27, 2020 † 9 Catholic Social Services lists a number of happenings Gift of Giving has been done in the past. We would like to ex- Thomas Dwyer The Fall River Diocese Program 2020 Recognizing that there are press our heartfelt grat- Mark J. Gendreau has appointed Catholic So- CSS is pleased to an- still so many families and itude to those across the Carol A. Nagle cial Services to revive the nounce that the Annual children in need this year, entire Diocese that have Kathleen Sylvia dormant Catholic Guild Gift of Giving Program we want to continue to supported and sustained Patrick Villella for the Blind, which had will continue this year. provide gifts and clothing, this program in the past. John T. Weldon been a vital presence many However, due to the sig- but in a way that keeps In light of the pandemic They join the existing years ago. nificant challenges of the everyone safe. we have come up with the board members and offi- The first step in revis- COVID-19 pandemic, the To this end, instead of safest way to modify the cers: Bishop Edgar M. da ing the guild is to under- program will operate in a putting up trees through- program so that no one is Cunha, S.D.V., president take a Needs Survey in very different fashion. out the Diocese with put at risk. If you have any and treasurer; Father John conjunction with the feast Normally, the success specific requests for gifts, questions regarding this Murray, clerk, secretary; of St. Lucy, Patroness of the of this program depends clothing, and other neces- year’s Gift of Giving Pro- Father Richard Wilson; Blind, on December 13. on the generosity of our sities, we are asking that gram, please reach out to Father David Costa; and “We want to distribute donors and the over 150 you consider donating a Catholic Social Services at Kevin Kiley, assistant clerk. the survey through parish- volunteers who carry out gift card, in any denomina- 508-674-4681. Catholic Social Services es and other media outlets” its many moving pieces. tion, from either Walmart, CSS adds six new board is excited to have this said Susan Mazzarella, However, due to the re- Target, or Amazon. This members esteemed group provide CEO of Catholic Social strictions on gathering will allow us to provide gift Catholic Social Ser- governance and leader- Services, during a meeting and being able to safely cards to each of the fami- vices is pleased to an- ship to further advance its of a small group assisting socially distance, it is not lies in the program so that nounce the addition of six mission. in reviving the Guild. possible to have the num- they can have items deliv- new members to its Board Fall River Diocese revives Additional details will ber of volunteers necessary ered either directly to their of Directors. Catholic Guild for the follow in a future edition of to organize and execute door, or through contact- They are: Blind The Anchor. the program the way it less pick-up at the stores. La Salette Festival of Lights will shine, following safety guidelines continued from page one A subscription to the would Shrine Church for religious ic, the traditional Christmas Attleboro. make a wonderful gift for a loved one, services, the Gift Shop, the Illuminations are needed The Shrine was inaugu- a friend, or yourself. It’s a publication Cafeteria, the Welcome more than ever as a sign rated on Dec. 8, 1953. To that provides a Spiritual uplift and keeps Center and the Museum of of hope in these times of celebrate the opening, so Catholics connected to our Church — Christmas Crèches. Parking loss, stress and anxiety. The close to Christmas, a Na- locally and beyond. restrictions will be enforced Lights at La Salette pro- tivity scene was displayed If you are not already a depending on the number claim the true meaning of and some evergreens were subscriber or are interested in of visitors. The lights go out Christmas. La Salette will decorated with Christmas giving an Anchor subscription at 9 p.m. each evening to do all which is necessary to Lights. Since that very hum- as a gift, please consider respect the curfew time in safeguard the health of all. ble beginning, the religious subscribing for $29/year at Massachusetts. There are no The Christmas Illumi- illuminations have grown to www.fallriverdiocese.org/ subscribe or mailing a check entrance fees. nations began in1953 when become the largest religious to: Anchor Press, P.O. Box 318, The La Salette Mis- the Missionaries of Our display in New England. In Congers, N.Y., 10920. sionaries strongly feel that Lady of La Salette estab- recognition of the im- during this time of pandem- lished a Catholic Shrine in portance of the La Salette Shrine, the Roman Catholic Bishops of the United States have designated this shrine as The National Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette. The faithful of every religious denomination have made it a tradition to come to La Salette to view the Illuminations during the Christmas Season. The Shrine has never charged any entrance fee. The Shrine remains open to all.

10 † November 27, 2020 Advent — The wait begins he season of Advent marks Baptist announces the Advent of Messiah! It’s not only the birth of our hearts become more inviting. Tthe start of a new Church the Messiah. Through his words, Jesus at Christmas that we remem- Each “moment” of time you invite Year. we are prompted to complement ber. Christ is among us right here, and He accepts is another cumula- Advent, the four weeks before our Advent longing with a desire to every day. tive experience of the undying love Christmas, is a season where we reform our lives. Three of the four wreath can- of Christ in your life. wait in joyful hope. It is a time of Matthew 1:22-23 dles are purple. The candle for the Cultivation of friendships preparation, desire, longing and ex- “All this took place to fulfill third week is pink. It has special requires patience and time. If you pectancy. It is a season of the Word, what the Lord had said through the meaning on the Third Sunday of and a friend don’t spend the time to an eager and happy preparation for prophet: ‘Behold, the virgin shall Advent called Gaudete Sunday. experience each other, the rela- the celebration of the Incarnation, be with Child and bear a Son, and Gaudete is a Latin word which tionship will never grow. But if you the Word-made-flesh, Jesus. We they shall name Him Emmanu- means “Rejoice.” It signifies the allow time for nurturing, you both sing Alleluia! Hurry, the Lord is el,” which nearness of will grow and share your combined near! means the Lord’s life experiences. Without simply Advent is not a penitential sea- “God is coming. taking the time, you could com- son similar to Lent. During Advent, with us” Pope Fran- pletely miss the potential richness we recall the first appearance of (Mt 1:22- cis called of the relationship. Christ and we reflect on His sec- 23). Gaudete Christ is eager to share His life ond coming. For us today, we also It was Sunday the with us. But He doesn’t want it to acknowledge Christ’s third coming. of Him “Sunday be a rushed event. He wants it to That is the coming of Christ to us that the of Joy.” be like a friendship that takes time every day. We celebrate that Christ prophet He asked and grows over a cup of coffee and is present, here and now, living Isaiah had spoken when he said: “A that instead of worrying about conversation. Jesus wants to “hap- among us. We recount the ageless voice of One crying out in the des- everything we have not done yet to pen” in our lives. expectancy of the Messiah by re- ert, ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, prepare for Christmas we should When we hurry life, we impose living the great historical events of make straight His paths.’” instead give thanks for all the good mortal time restrictions on Christ’s our Salvation today. God chose Mary to become the things in our lives given to us by “happening” in our lives. When we Advent is not simply a time Mother of God. The Salvation of God. wait patiently for Christ to “hap- when we prepare for Christmas. God’s people is built on a human Advent and Hope pen,” we become more aware that There’s so much more. framework. The history of our Sal- Advent is a wonderful time for Jesus is “happening” all the time to During Advent the Church vation is based on longing (Isaiah), us to slow down the pace of our us. Christ’s coming is a never-end- prepares us for Christ’s coming in reformation (John the Baptist), and lives and learn to wait. We rush ev- ing experience. three distinct steps through the intimacy with God (Mary). erything! Our culture has caused us During Advent, prepare your words and actions of the prophet During Advent, the Scripture to want it all and want it right now. heart with prayer so you can fully Isaiah, John the Baptist, and the readings focus on the past, present How impatient we can become divert your attention to experienc- Virgin Mary. Think of Advent as and future: Christ was born, Christ waiting 30 seconds for a traffic light ing the Word in the Scripture read- the story of a great adventure about is truly present here and now, and to change. ings. Let the Word magnify your to unfold: Christ will return at the second During Advent, we wait for the own personal longing, reformation When Advent arrives, the tunes coming. coming of Christ. The Scriptural and intimacy with God. of “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” Advent and Symbols perspective focuses on the past, At the start of Advent, we are and “Prepare the Way of The Lord” When we talk about the prayers present and future: Christ was encouraged to watch, wait and are enchanting our thoughts. Their and songs of Advent let’s not forget born, Christ is truly present here reflect. As the season draws on, the repetition in lyric and tune suggest the rich symbols present during the and now today, and Christ will mood of the music grows anxious. the centuries of waiting in hope Liturgy. return at the second coming. The lamenting and impatience of by the faithful who unceasingly We see the Advent Wreath — a The human perspective we the people grows. The beat picks believed in the promise foretold by symbol of Advent — itself filled should develop during Advent is up. The emotions elevate. We be- Isaiah. He prophesied that Mary with symbols. The four candles one of patiently waiting for our lieve! We hope! We trust! would bear Jesus Whom he called represent the four weeks of Advent. lives to “happen.” “The eyes of the blind shall be Emmanuel, God is with us. The candles give light — symbolic Anything that’s really good is opened, and the ears of the deaf In the Old Testament, Isaiah of Christ as the light of the world. worth the wait. Something that’s re- unstopped; then the lame shall leap reveals the pending arrival of the The flame of the candle is a light in ally good “happens” over the course like a deer and the tongue of the Messiah. This progressive an- the darkness just as Jesus is a light of time. The actual “happening” is a speechless sing for joy” (Is 35:5-6). nouncement helps to build our an- to our world today. The evergreen non-stop continual event in itself. If While we may not be able to ticipation and our sense of longing. branches are a sign of life. They are you view the “happening” within a gather singing publicly during the “Therefore the Lord Himself arranged in a circle to symbolize short slice of time, you only have a pandemic may our hearts be filled will give you a sign; the young eternal nature of God. Even the snapshot of the moment and failed with the music of the angels as we woman, pregnant and about to bear ritual of lighting the candles in to experience the fullness of the anxiously prepare for the coming a Son, shall name Him Emmanuel,” additive sequence is symbolic. On event. And so it is with Christ. of Christ. Come, Lord Jesus. Come (Is 7:14). the fourth week, the greater bright- Jesus’ coming to us is an un- now and forever. In the New Testament, John the ness of all four candles is symbolic ending event. As we wait in hope, of the closeness of the arrival of the 8 Turn to page 13 November 27, 2020 † 11 Focus on Church Youth One in 10 everal years ago, I season upon us and Ad- that I shared with you at the parents say, “Now say thank let’s first and foremost give Sheard this story: vent approaching, perhaps, beginning of this article, we you.” While a good lesson, sincere thanks to God for A man who had passed we might take a moment ask for things from God and the little child most likely our faith in Him and for all away was getting a tour of to think about this story we receive so many bless- repeats the parent’s words He has given to us. Let’s also Heaven with St. Peter. They and what it means to us. ing from Him. However, is without really meaning it. give thanks to our parents, approached a room that So often we turn to God it just as in the leper story, What I’m talking about is a and teachers, and religious, was bustling with activi- when we are in need of that there is a room needing deep gratitude. A true ap- and others who make our ty. There were angels and something. Do we, however, only one angel to handle preciation for what God or lives better and easier during babies everywhere. When thank God for all that we all of the thanks we give to others have done for us. this difficult year who we, asked, St. Peter told the do receive each and We receive so perhaps, forget to thank. man that is the room where every day? much from God I pray that we may all be babies receive their souls. In the Gospel and from others. more the like that one leper Moving on they came to for Thanksgiving Do we appreciate who was not only cleansed, another room where angels Day we heard the all that is done for but, because of his faith, be- were working. When asked, Gospel of Jesus us or do we just cause of his giving thanks, St. Peter indicated that cleansing the 10 take it all for grant- was made whole again. this was the room where lepers. The striking ed? Just like the 10 I wish you and yours prayers and requests were part of this story as lepers we may let a Happy Thanksgiving and received. It was extremely we will hear, is that the many blessing Advent season and a shar- busy with millions of angels Jesus cleansed all 10 of the God? we receive be hidden by ing of a heartfelt and blessed moving to and fro. Moving lepers but only one came I wonder how we might the negatives in our lives “giving of thanks” to each on they came to another back to give Him thanks. have acted had we been and surely leprosy like this other this holiday season, as room, likewise filled with One out of 10. In fact, the given what the 10 lepers pandemic is a negative! We different as it may be. millions of angels hard at one that came back was received that day? Would may have some difficulties Anchor columnist work. When asked, St. Peter a Samaritan, an outsider. we have come back to give in our own lives, like ill- Frank Lucca is a deacon in indicated that this was the Jesus said in reply, thanks for what we just ness, or unemployment or the Diocese of Fall Riv- room where blessings were “Ten were cleansed, received, or would we have perhaps even difficulties er assigned to St. Mary’s sent to those who needed were they not? just gone back to out nor- with others. We can surely Parish in Dartmouth and a them or requested them. “Where are the other mal lives? find things in our lives to campus minister at UMass Finally coming to the next nine? Sometimes we respond be grateful for or can we Dartmouth. He is married room, the man saw a huge “Has none but this to something done for us only do so if we see others to his wife of 43 years, Kris- room with only one angel at foreigner returned to give with a rote “thank you.” that are less fortunate than tine, and the father of two work. When asked, St Peter thanks to God?” That’s not what I’m talking ourselves? daughters and their hus- told the man that this is the Then He said to him, about. This always reminds During these Thanks- bands, and five grandsons! room where thanks to God “Stand up and go; your faith me of the little child, whose giving and Advent seasons, So blessed! were received! has saved you.” With the Thanksgiving Just as in the angel story High school, police, and technology firm team for safety continued from page two A subscription to the would and faculty are prompted dent Christopher Myron. necessity and importance make a wonderful gift for a loved one, to take actions in coordi- “The ultimate goal of this of increasing school safety a friend, or yourself. It’s a publication nation with pre-existing relationship is to provide a and security by ensuring a training, protocols and sophisticated and unified safe teaching and learning that provides a Spiritual uplift and keeps procedures to best protect communication system environment for both staff Catholics connected to our Church — those under threat. which protects students and students,” said Fla- locally and beyond. “We are excited about from active threats.” nagan. “Bishop Connolly If you are not already a our partnership with the Brandon Flanagan, possessed the forethought subscriber or are interested in Fall River Police Depart- CEO of In Force Tech- to work collaborative- giving an Anchor subscription ment and the team at nology, commended the ly with its Fall River law as a gift, please consider school’s ongoing safety enforcement partners to subscribing for $29/year at IN FORCE911 because www.fallriverdiocese.org/ together we can create efforts. enhance police response subscribe or mailing a check the most secure and safe “Despite a nation- time and communications to: Anchor Press, P.O. Box 318, environment for our stu- al pandemic, President for the benefit of the entire Congers, N.Y., 10920. dents,” said BCHS Presi- Myron recognized the school community.”

12 † November 27, 2020 Saint Vincent’s Services hosting Virtual Memorial Tree Lighting on December 6 FALL RIVER — On loved ones. In addition, Tree on the Saint Vincent’s Honor the memory of visiting the Saint Vincent’s Sunday, December 6, St. each name will be added to Services Facebook page. a loved one by sponsoring Services website at Vincent’s Services will host its Memorial Book and will a light on the 2020 Me- saintvincentsservices.org, a Virtual Memorial Tree be remembered and prayed morial Tree for $10 each. or sending a check to Saint Lighting outside of the St. for during each Liturgy All proceeds go directly Vincent’s Services. For Vincent’s Chapel at 2425 offered at St. Vincent’s to support programs that more information please Highland Avenue, Fall Chapel. benefit the children, youth call Jenny Reis 508-679- River at 4 p.m. Due to COVID-19 SVS and families served by 8511. The tree will glow will host this annual event Saint Vincent’s. May God bless you and with lights representing virtually and will live- Memorial Tree Lights your family during this the name and memory of stream the Blessing of the can be purchased by Christmas season! Advent — The wait begins continued from page 11 Diocese of Fall River TV Mass Jesus’ coming to us is an “O radiant light, Church in South Yarmouth on the Portuguese Channel unending event today and O Sun Divine of God and is a member of the throughout all time. We are the Father’s deathless choir and a cantor. He has Sunday, November 29 at 7 p.m. encouraged to watch, wait face, O image of the a certificate in Lay Minis- Broadcast from Immaculate and reflect. We focus our Light sublime that fills try from the Archdiocese of attention on experiencing the Heavenly dwelling Hartford with a focus on Conception Church in New Bedford the Word in the Scripture place” — (“Phos Hilaron,” Liturgy and Music and is readings. We let the Word Fourth-century hymn). a published church music magnify our own person- Happy Advent and composer. Diocese of Fall River TV Mass al longing and desire for Merry Christmas! He resides with his change in our lives and Rick Swenton is a wife, Gail, in South Den- on the Portuguese Channel intimacy with God. parishioner of St. Pius X nis. Sunday, December 6 at 7 p.m. Broadcast from St. Anthony Church Our readers respond: Can we say Thank You? in Taunton After what we have Vietnam War, 300,000 by and Navy Blue Angels flew been through in 2020, can year end. In Fall River, one over numerous cities. It we say Thank You? favorite market closed as is moments like this that Diocese of Fall River TV Mass Our quick response the entire family of four remind us of blessings. Life on WLNE Channel 6 is, “Are you kidding me!” all died within three days does go on. OK. 2020 — The Year that from COVID. It may take some effort Sunday, November 29 at 11:00 a.m. changed the world. Deaths in the U.S. to find something to be Coronavirus (COVID) averaged 1,000 daily at one thankful for at this time of spread from point. This pandemic filled Thanksgiving, but we can throughout 184 countries. hospitals to full-capacity; do it if we really try. For Celebrant is Father Paul E. Entire nations were on temporary hospitals had to our sake, we must try. We Canuel, retired priest of the Fall lock-down. Stock markets be erected overnight. All are not so deaf that we can- River Diocese crashed. Millions of people medical personnel suffered not hear of something to were out of work. In the through the worst crisis of be thankful for, nor are we U.S. we had 30,000,000 our time. All dental clinics so blind that we cannot see newly-unemployed, worse and barber shops closed. something to be thankful than the Great Depression My daughter Suzanne gave for. A moment of gratitude Sunday, December 6 at 11:00 a.m. of 1929-1939. Grocery me and Lauretta hair-cuts makes a difference in our stores emptied. Toilet pa- in our home. Granddaugh- attitude. This Thanksgiving per was the greatest prod- ter Melanie had to give me season is that moment. a temporary tooth-filling Now is the acceptable time. Celebrant is Father Anthony uct in demand. Szakaly, C.S.C., In Houston, Texas, in our home! God Bless America! Director of Campus 7,000 cars lined up for To salute all who were The land of the free and Ministry & Alumni Minister food boxes. Restaurants giving their all for our the home of the brave who at Stonehill College, Easton and bars closed, many survival, such as medical, keep it that way! to never reopen. In the police, fire, food-services Daryl Gonyon U.S., we had double the and countless others, the Capt., USAF Ret. total deaths of the 10-year Air Force Thunderbirds Fall River

November 27, 2020 † 13 Deacon Robert G.L. Normandin To advertise in SWANSEA — Deacon Louis de France Parish in Bob was a gift to all Robert G. L. Norman- Swansea and he eventu- who knew him and bless- The Anchor, din (74) of Somerset, ally became ordained as ed many lives with his died November 15 in the a permanent deacon in genuine love and caring. contact Wayne Powers Country Gardens Nurs- June of 1987. He was always ready to ing Center, Swansea, He is remembered for lend a helping hand and at 508-675-7151 or after an extended illness. was always available to He was the husband of 55 anyone who needed him. waynepowers@ years of Paulette (Jean) He also made his family Normandin. a close and loving clan, anchornews.org Born in Fall River, a with many beautiful son of the late Joseph Leo memories. He deeply en- In Your Prayers Normandin and the late joyed his role as a deacon Please pray for these priests and deacons during the coming weeks: Edna (Barcelou) Nor- and caring for the peo- Dec. 5 mandin, he was a gifted ple he served. He was an Rev. Eugene J. Boutin, Manchester Diocese, 1986 musician and singer who amazing man and will be Rev. Coleman Conley, SS.CC., Chaplain, Sacred Heart Home, New made his living at first in greatly missed. Bedford, 1990 Rev. James W. Fahey, Retired Pastor, St. Theresa of the Child Jesus, The Premiers and later Besides his wife, he is South Attleboro, 2016 The Reflections. He later survived by a son, Jason became an electronics his witty sense of humor Normandin and his wife Dec. 6 Rev. Joseph L. Cabral, Pastor, Our Lady of the Angels, Fall River, engineer, retiring from and his “Deac Bob jokes.” Mandy of Shrewsbury; 1959 music to spend more He was an avid Red Sox two daughters, Tracy Rt. Rev. Msgr. John H. Hackett, JCD, , June-December time with his family. fan and enjoyed taking Hamner and her husband 1966, 1966 Rev. Joseph K. Welsh, Retired Pastor, Our Lady of Victory, Bob and his wife taught his children and grand- Kevin and Melody Lavoie Centerville, 1971 catechism together at St. children to Fenway Park. Costa and her husband Rev. John T. Higgins, Retired Pastor , St. Mary, Mansfield, 1985 Jeff all of Somerset; eight Dec. 7 grandchildren, Matthew Rev. Thomas F. Daley, Retired Pastor, St. James, New Bedford, 1976 Lavoie, Hannah Lavoie, Rev. Ambrose Bowen, Retired Pastor, St. Joseph, Taunton, 1977 Meaghan Costa, Em- Rev. James W. Clark, Retired Pastor, St. Joan of Arc, Orleans, 2000 ily Hamner, Madison Dec. 8 Hamner, Hailey Kennett, Rev. John F. Broderick, Pastor, St. Mary, South Dartmouth, 1940 Zachary Normandin, and Dec. 9 Alexandria Normandin; Rev. Rene Patenaude, O.P., Retired Associate Pastor, St. Anne, Fall and two great grandchil- River, 1983 dren, Jackson Kennett Dec. 10 and Monroe Kennett. Rev. Thomas C. Briscoe, Former Pastor, St. Anne, Fall River, 1918 A Mass of Christian Rev. Andrew S.P. Baj, Former Pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Burial was celebrat- New Bedford, 1971 Rev. Leonard M. Mullaney, Retired Pastor, St. Anthony, Mattapoi- ed November 21 in St. sett, 2014 Francis of Assisi Church, Swansea. Burial was Dec. 11 Rev. Edward L. Killigrew, Pastor, St. Kilian, New Bedford, 1959 private. To leave an online Dec. 12 condolence go to www. Rev. Paul F. McCarrick, Pastor, St. Joseph, Fall River, 1996 hathawayfunerals.com. In Dec. 13 lieu of flowers, donations Rev. Reginald Theriault, O.P., St. Anne, Dominican Priory, Fall may be made to the River, 1972 Rev. Adrien L. Francoeur, M.S., La Salette Shrine, North Attleboro, Lewey Body Dementia 1991 Association at www.lbda. org. Dec. 14 Rev. Msgr. John J. Hayes, Pastor, Holy Name, New Bedford, 1970 To send flowers to Rev. Edward J. Burns, Retired Pastor, St. Mark, Attleboro Falls, 2015 the family or plant a tree in memory of Deacon Dec. 15 Rev. Mortimer Downing, Pastor, St. Francis Xavier, Hyannis, 1942 Robert G.L. Normandin, Rev. John F. O’Keefe, Assistant, St. Patrick, Fall River, 1955 please visit https://www. hathawayfunerals.com.

14 † November 27, 2020 I second that emotion truly enjoy the folks used Anchor promos and to Lincoln Financial Field canceling the classic is ic ends in 2021. That way Iwho contribute their found a home for Capt. on game morning. I wore prudent. Safety first. Army-Navy can beat each time, talent and most Gonyon’s thoughts. my Naval Academy jersey With that in mind, I other up next December, importantly to me, their Daryl, thank reiterate what Capt. and we can gather with emotions with The Anchor. you for sharing Gonyon expressed, family and friends safely and We have a plethora and thank you for thanks to health- without limits once again. of excellent writers who your service to our care workers, our And rest in peace my old contribute to this paper with country. military, our police, friend, Teri Gumkowski. We thoughtful, inspiring and It’s appropriate fire and emergency shared a lot of laughs and entertaining columns and because I wanted personnel. Thanks Spiritual moments while on stories. to write about my to everyone who Cursillo music ministry for Trust me, it is not easy Army-Navy Game works to limit many years. You raced the to share your heart and soul experience from COVID-19’s wrath. good race. Prayers for you, in print with others. There 2018, and Gonyon’s The Spanish Flu and prayers for you Chuck, are always those readers closing paragraph, “God and stocking cap. And more pandemic of 1917 lasted two and your family. who don’t agree for some Bless America! The land of importantly, I wore my dad’s years. Let’s all work together davejolivet@anchornews. reason, take offense (or the free and the home of the dog tags from his service to make sure this pandem- org. defense) with what we have brave who keep it that way!” days in the Navy aboard to say. That’s just the risk was the perfect segue. a destroyer in the South we’re all willing to take. I wanted to write about Pacific during the worst of We received a letter to that game because it was WWII. the editor after deadline the realization of a bucket Larry wasn’t a sports fan, for this edition, but after list item, and because that but I wanted his presence reading it, I felt it had to be classic, that is one of my there, and that of his included in this Anchor. favorite sporting events, is shipmates. The letter, found on a victim of the COVID-19 It was cold and windy page 13, was from Retired pandemic. There will be no and I couldn’t care less. The U.S. Air Force Captain Army-Navy tilt in 2020. atmosphere alone warmed Daryl Gonyon, and the On Dec. 7, 2018, the my heart. Thousands of Please support the TV Mass message was powerful yet 77th anniversary of the service women and men and Donate online at simple: 2020 has been a horrors of the attack on service families gathered to year of havoc and chaos, yet Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, I set celebrate football, celebrate www.GiveCentral.org/FRTVMass we still have so much to be out an a solo road trip to America, and celebrate the Or mail your check payable to: thankful for. Philadelphia with one ticket freedom civilians often take Diocese of Fall River – TV Mass, So I shuffled a couple to “America’s Game,” in tow. for granted. 450 Highland Ave. of already completed pages, The next morning, I I’m going to miss Army- removed a couple of often- took a Lyft from the hotel Navy on TV this year, but Fall River, MA 02720 Holy Family Parish 370 Middleboro Avenue East Taunton Register for Mass attendance online at hfparish.net and click on the ‘Sign up’ icon Weeknight Masses at Parish Center (438 Middleboro Ave.) at a variety of times, including Saturdays at 7 p.m.

Monday to Saturday 8 a.m. at the church

November 27, 2020 † 15 Collection to assist area Religious is December 12-13 FALL RIVER — The Diocese of Fall River will hold the Retire- ment Fund for Religious collection December 12-13. The National Religious Retirement Office (NRRO) coordinates this annual appeal and distributes the proceeds to assist eligible U.S. Religious communities with their retirement needs. Nearly 30,000 senior Sisters, Brothers and Religious Order priests bene- fit. Last year, the Diocese of Fall River donated $112,168.28 to the collection. In 2020, the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts received financial support made possible by the Retirement Fund for Reli- gious. Visit retiredreligious.org to learn more.

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16 † November 27, 2020