Vol. 45, No. 11 March 2021

The St. Philip

Be-News-Zi

“Return to me with your whole heart; with fasting, weeping, and mourning.

Rend your hearts, not your garments, and return to the LORD, your God, for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, abounding in steadfast love, and relenting in punishment.”

(Joel 2: 12-13)

Calendar of Events St. Philip Benizi Catholic Church continues to celebrate public Masses March 2021 throughout the week (Sunday through Saturday).

3/5-6: EUCHARISTIC ADORATION Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, strict protocols begins the First Friday of every month in the are still in place. Please read the document, church, after the 8:30AM Mass and concludes “Protocols and Procedures for Attending Mass”, with Benediction at 7:45AM Saturday morning. posted on our parish website: www.stphilipbenizi.org). This document is also 3/5: PRAISE & WORSHIP ADORATION–7PM included in SPB’s weekly Flocknote, This Service takes place during the monthly First which is sent to parishioners by e-mail. Friday, 24-hour Adoration and includes Contemporary Music, Gospel Reading, a Homily, Period of Silence, Our (temporary) Mass Schedule is as follows: Benediction, Sending Song, and Reposition. ALL are welcome! 4:00PM Saturday Vigil Mass (English) 7:30AM Sunday Mass (English) 3/7: 3rd SUNDAY OF LENT 10:00AM Sunday Mass (English) 3/14: 4th SUNDAY OF LENT 1:00PM Sunday Mass (Spanish) 4:00PM Sunday Mass (English) 3/14: DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME BEGINS 7:00PM Sunday Mass (Spanish) (Set Clocks Ahead One Hour!) Weekday Masses 3/17: HAPPY ST. PATRICK’S DAY! Mon – Sat: 8:30AM/ Wed: 7:00PM (English) Tuesday & Thursday: 7:30PM (Spanish) 3/19: SOLEMNITY OF ST. JOSEPH, HUSBAND OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY Our parish will continue to live-stream Masses: https://www.facebook.com/stphilipbenizi.org/, 3/20: FIRST DAY OF SPRING or: https://www.stphilipbenizi.org/.

3/21: 5th SUNDAY OF LENT

3/28: PALM SUNDAY (Passion of the Lord) What did YOU “Give Up” for Lent?

STATIONS OF THE CROSS During Lent, many Catholics search for something to Join us each week during Lent, in person or via “give up”, such as sweets, video games, bad habits, or livestream. There is no need to register to attend. numerous other things which, perhaps in their minds, are only temporary sacrifices anyway…made during the 40- Wednesdays—8:00AM (English) day Lenten season, and gladly revived as soon as Lent Fridays—6:00PM (English) is over. “Whew! I gave it up for 40 days…success!!” Fridays—7:30PM (Spanish) But if these temporary sacrifices are made with a con- LENTEN FISH FRY! scious connection to the hunger pangs experienced by Join us each Friday during Lent (Take-out Only!) the poor every day, or the tremendous willpower needed to fight bad habits or addictions, or the realization that 4/1: HOLY THURSDAY some of our “small pleasures” in life are really gifts that others never have, then these sacrifices can also be enlightening and, hopefully, life-changing. 4/2: GOOD FRIDAY In “giving up” for Lent, others choose to “take on” more 4/3: HOLY SATURDAY/EASTER VIGIL MASS intangible, significant practices, perhaps of a spiritual nature or “other-focused” that effect real change… 4/4: EASTER SUNDAY change of heart. These may include: spiritual reading, praying the Rosary daily, attending Mass more often, 4/11: 2nd SUNDAY OF EASTER/ volunteering, helping an elderly neighbor with chores, DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY donating more to charities or our own St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry…and the list goes on.

If you haven’t found that “one thing” that would help Please check upcoming Bulletins make your Lenten season “a success”, IT’S NOT TOO and Flocknote e-mails for LATE! The Season of Lent continues for the entire month of March! So, decide now and thank God for this Holy Week and Easter Mass times. wonderful opportunity to draw closer to Him while pray- ing, fasting, and giving alms. God bless you! ~Yone Daly March 2021 we state: “Through a commitment to lay leadership, we accept the responsibility of spreading the Good News and creating a welcoming parish, filled with the presence of Dear Parishioners, Christ.” St. Philip Benizi Parish is blessed to have many outstanding lay leaders on our staff, serving on our three WE HAVE A NEW DEACON! leadership Councils, as well as being members of many On Saturday, February 6, 2021, parishioner Dr. Henry ministries and committees. We are blessed! Ohaya was ordained a permanent deacon by Archbishop Gregory J. Hartmayer at the Cathedral of Christ the King in SUPPORTING OUR ARCHDIOCESE Atlanta. The following day, Deacon Ohaya served as Despite the Coronavirus pandemic, we came very close to deacon and homilist at the 7:30AM and 10:00AM Masses. meeting our 2020 goal for the Archbishop’s Annual Appeal. Deacon Ohaya and his wife, Ihuoma, joined St. Philip The goal is set by the Archdiocese, based on the previous Benizi Parish in 2005. They are proud parents of two year’s Offertory. St. Philip’s goal for 2020 was $125,500. daughters, Amarachi and Akunna, and a son, Arinze. We As of January 25, 2021, the amount collected was congratulate our first Nigerian deacon and wish him joy, $122,352. I am extremely grateful to all of our parishioners fulfillment, and success in his new ministry. Congratula- who contributed to this Appeal. Thank you for your gener- tions Deacon Henry! osity and the many sacrifices you have made to make the FAREWELL TO OUR BUSINESS MANAGER 2020 Appeal a success. The theme for this year’s Arch- bishop’s Annual Appeal is “Our Joyful Return to the Lord”. At the end of February, Helena Frazier completed her min- The goal for 2021, set by the Archdiocese, is $124,000. istry here at St. Philip Benizi Parish. After (almost) five Commitment Sunday took place the weekend of February very busy and productive years as our Business Manager, 13/14, 2021. If you have not yet returned your pledge card, Helena accepted a position as a Revenue Agent with the please place it in the collection basket or mail it to the Internal Revenue Service. During her time with us, Helena Parish Office. Thank you very much! was an invaluable member of our Parish Staff and served our parish generously, professionally, and joyfully. She is a OUR NEW KITCHEN IS READY (FINALLY!) gifted leader and an innovator. She directed our efforts to February also saw the completion of the new addition to advance our use of technology and social media. We are Founders’ Hall. A long time coming, the addition is a major sad to see her go, but are comforted by the fact that she accomplishment for our parish. The addition includes a and her daughter, Kenya will continue to be active state-of-the-art, commercial kitchen, offices for the Pastor parishioners of St. Philip Benizi Parish. and a Parochial Vicar, a Choir room, bathroom, and office LOOKING TO THE FUTURE for the Director of Music and Liturgy. We are eager to After much discussion with our Parish Finance Council and move into our new addition and excited to begin using our the Archdiocesan Finance Office, we decided to reduce the new kitchen! The Knights of Columbus will have the privi- Business Manager position to part-time. This was based on lege of being the first to use the kitchen for our “Lenten a number of factors. First, because of the Coronavirus Fish Fry” that takes place on the six Fridays of Lent. pandemic, our Offertory has decreased significantly. Re- ducing the position to part-time lessens the stress on our I want to thank all those who have supported this major undertaking. In particular, I am grateful to th finances. Second, we are now utilizing the Shared e members of Accounting Services (SAS) of the Archdiocese of Atlanta. the “Kitchen Committee” who used their expertise to plan SAS is responsible for the bookkeeping tasks of the parish and design the kitchen, and the members of the “Building and compiling monthly and yearly financial reports. Third, Oversight Committee” who met every two weeks through- some of the responsibilities of the full-time position have out the excavation and building phases to guide and over- been shifted over to our Communications Director, Melissa see the project. And, of course, I am grateful to all who Langlois. Melissa will direct the operations of the Parish donated toward the addition. Whether your donation was Office, recruit and train office volunteers, coordinate parish big or small, we appreciate your generosity. It is only mailings, and oversee the operation of parish computers because of you that we were able to initiate and success- and other office equipment and supplies. She will also fully complete our new addition. Unfortunately, the Coro- supervise and direct the maintenance of the parish mem- navirus pandemic does not allow us to gather to celebrate bership data base and recording of sacramental records. the blessing and opening of the building just yet. Once it is safe to do so, we will plan a grand opening, blessing and a Nicholas Dragone, our Liturgy/Music Director will serve as reception to celebrate this milestone in our parish history. our Business Manager, in addition to his regular duties. Nicholas is very familiar with our parish operations and “REPENT AND BELIEVE IN THE GOSPEL!” already serves on the Finance Council. Last year, he re- When you read this column, we will be in the midst of the ceived a Master’s Degree in Business Administration season of Lent. During this penitential season of the (MBA) from Kennesaw State University. As our Business Church year, we are invited to spend time in prayer, Manager, Nick will be responsible for the administration of fasting, and works of charity (almsgiving). On Ash parish finances, human resources, personnel, payroll, and Wednesday, we were sprinkled with ashes and exhorted to safe environment. He will collaborate with SAS and with “Repent and Believe in the Gospel”. The Gospel is, of our Finance Council. Nick is eager to serve our parish in course, the Good News of God’s mercy and forgiveness. his new role. Believing in the Gospel requires continual conversion of mind, heart, and soul. May this Lenten season draw us I am grateful to Melissa and Nick for their desire and ever closer to the heart of God. May we experience God’s willingness to take on these new and challenging responsi- presence as we prepare for the celebration of Easter and bilities. They are very committed to St. Philip Benizi Parish God’s gift of new life! and are servant leaders. In our parish Mission Statement, (~Fr. John, Your Pastor) Mass as Practicing the As a child growing up in New York, Sundays were family time. My grandmother lived with us and mom often Ordinary Patterns of our Lives invited the great-aunts and uncles to our Sunday meal.

Reflection by Lorraine Miller, While we were Catholic, my great-aunts and uncles SPB’s Director of Faith Formation were Jewish. With 6 siblings at the time, there was the adult table and the kids’ table. I remember being fortu- nate enough to be at the adult table occasionally. While I may not have realized it at the time, these gatherings taught me a lot about the importance of God, family, love, sharing, mutual respect, and caring. These are

the values we share and absorb as we gather at Mass

every Sunday. It takes on particular significance in that

the words we hear are not just any words, but the living

Word of God.

In listening to our shared stories, we understand why we are gathering. It is to share a meal, but not just any Have you ever noticed how the Mass is the way we meal. This is the meal by which our freedom was ritualize the ordinary moments of our lives? This is bought at a great price. It is a sacrificial meal that cele- because the “ordinary” is sacred. Before the pandemic, brates God’s new Covenant with humanity…the promise we gathered as families, as friends, and as co-workers. of salvation, presence, and an everlasting Kingdom. In Some of us still do, with precautions in place. We all the liturgy of the Eucharist, we practice the disposition of long to gather again without the restrictions and fears of our hearts and the pattern of our lives – the Paschal COVID-19, and we really appreciate these simple Mystery – the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of moments when they are denied or restricted. When my Christ. We all have our paschal moments whenever life mom was diagnosed with and died of pancreatic cancer seasons change us. They can be big moments, like at the beginning of the pandemic, my siblings and I were starting life in a new town, losing or finding a job, getting blessed to gather by her side, but we were limited in a diagnosis of illness, or transitioning through any of a who could attend her funeral. When my husband’s aunt number of losses, disappointments or difficulties, only to had a stroke a few months later and was sent to the discover new life. But mostly, they are in the daily, hospital, we were not allowed to be with her in her last smaller moments, like dealing with a disappointment, days, and most recently, when my brother-in law annoyance, or missed opportunity and finding new life in contracted and then died from COVID-19 on Christmas and through those experiences. The Paschal Mystery day, his immediate and extended family could not be at teaches us to hope and to trust in God’s promises. his side. Perhaps COVID-19 has affected your ability to gather in similar ways? It has affected us economically, We participate in the meal by sharing the common socially, spiritually, and psychologically…and for some, bread, and demonstrate our union with one another, just it has affected our ability to gather at Mass. I hope the as at a family meal where we pass around the food or longing for that which we have been denied will bring share food with those in need at our local Food Bank or even greater appreciation and participation in this gift. St. Vincent de Paul Pantry. We have heard it said that “we are what we eat”… well, at this meal, we have an At Mass, we gather as one, big family of Christ from opportunity to become what we eat in an even deeper different locations, ages, cultural backgrounds, and way. By chewing on and savoring the life of Christ in races. We are welcomed, and we welcome others. The our daily lives, we can become more like Christ. When Presider, who represents not only Christ, but the we do this, our food at Mass becomes, not just food for community as well, processes into the church, remind- our bodies, but also for our souls, healing us and giving ing us that we are all on a journey to God. We gather in us strength for the journey. seats around a table where we will share stories and share a common meal, but before that, we offer prayers Finally, we leave Mass, just as we leave a family gather- to God. Have you ever prayed together as a family ing, buoyed by the love and warmth of our family to before sitting down to eat? We do the same thing at share this gift with others. The word “Mass” comes from Mass. We also ask for forgiveness, a common and the Latin word “missa” which means to be “sent”. We basic human need for families and communities to thrive are sent to share the Good News of God’s love and and be reconciled with, and to be at peace with one offer of salvation to others. We are sent in word and another. Following that prayer, we praise and thank deed, just like Jesus…maybe with a simple smile, an act God for this great gift by singing the Gloria: “Glory to of kindness to a stranger, or with patience toward God in the highest, and peace to His people on earth.” others. There are many ways we live this out, until we gather in ritual celebration once again, to practice the Next, we share the stories of our ancestors in faith….. ordinary patterns of our lives. Build the Fire – Fan the Flames If you’ve ever been around a bonfire, it’s one of the most By Darleine Arce calming and soothing experiences; to dwell in that warmth; to watch the flames as they dance across and In my experience of Lectio Divina (spiritual or divine read- consume the wood beneath. It may happen slowly, or it ing), I often enter into the Scriptures and allow the Holy may change quickly if you have a powerful, blazing fire. Spirit to take my mind on a journey as He reveals to me The end result is always the same though, complete anni- whatever it is that He (God) wishes to reveal. Over the hilation. Some of you are probably very gifted masters of years, I have learned to surrender my prayer, to quiet my fire, and you could build it indoors or outdoors. I have a will (a little!) so that I can be open to receive. I assure you neighbor who can build fires on wet ground and they that I am more than vocal on many, many occasions and become such intensely burning, diamond-shape luminous I’m also highly insistent when I want something (cf. Mt 7: blazes! I, on the other hand, can’t even get a fire going in 7-8). My catechists who volunteer with me always hear me my own fireplace, much less outside. say, “Lord, if you want this to happen, you have to make it happen because I just can’t do it.” As I sat with the image in prayer, I reflected on how com- fortable we become next to the fire so that we neglect and A few weeks ago, I was beginning to contemplate on the forget to rekindle the embers. If we don’t act to breathe experience of what it is to “wait”. This pandemic has put a new life into it, the embers will be smoked out and, before huge pause to many aspects of all of our lives. In our Faith we know it, the fire is put out. But attending to the fire is Formation sessions, I hear from families who are adapting hard work — someone has to leave the warmth, embrace their lives to this norm. Some are feeling more physically the cold in the dark night, alone, in order to bring back isolated than ever in 2021, unable to gather with loved what is necessary to rekindle the fire and stir the flames. ones for the holy days and holiday celebrations of 2020. Meanwhile, birds are often used to represent Christian We’re longing for physical touch…to hug another! symbols (the dove-Holy Trinity; the eagle-Christ). The Fatigued from virtual school and its demands, we are feel- image of a phoenix, this mythical bird that is born of ashes ing the intrusiveness of Covid-19; our home spaces are no and renewed in fire, can represent the resurrection and longer sacred and protected from our work or school eternity. I pondered…Lord, what are you trying to tell me? responsibilities; these boundaries are wasting away. What was “for a few months” has become a year-long reality In her letters, the Carmelite sister, St. Elizabeth of the (without a promise of when it will come to an end)! For Trinity, one of my spiritual companions, wrote of human’s others, the economic difficulties from reduced hours, hostility towards God: our (sometimes unconscious) adjusted work schedules, and the continued cost of living unwillingness to be helped by the Lord or to trust (fully) in has led some to have to wonder what to prioritize: rent, His promise. Ouch! In teaching on identity in Christ, she food, or bills. And yes, although there are many good shares that Jesus offered and annihilated his humanity things that have come from this season of waiting (more entirely with His sacrificial act of love on the Cross. She time together as a family, meals at home, valuing each then explains that an equal act of love would be to other’s presence more deeply), it doesn’t take away the become an annihilation; to use our own humanity so that challenge and grueling aspect of the “wait”, as we continue we might be an extension of Christ’s saving work through to hope for what our future holds. It’s no coincidence that the life of the Church. this experience has been like a desert for many people! Ah ha! *lightbulb* - Here I’ve been thinking that God wants I remember getting to a place in my own mind where I me to burn the dream, when in reality, He’s been asking doubted what the Lord was doing in the midst of my wait- me to build the fire and fan the flames! To accept the ing. I felt like I had done my part, so why wasn’t the Lord challenge is to reshape my perspective, like St. Joseph so doing His? Why are the doors closed? Was this His way graciously did, and to fully embrace my identity and work of telling me to build the fire and burn the dream…to let go in Christ. To be an extension of Christ, to me, means that of whatever it is that I expected or desired in the depths of I need to do as St. Paul urges: embracing the power that my heart? And then, by the grace of God, my spiritual comes from God, through generous acts of love and self- director remarked, “Darleine, thank God Joseph didn’t burn control (discipline, obedience, and maybe, for me, there the dream.” And just like that, it clicked for me: Thank you, could also be elements of greater poverty and detach- Papa Joseph and Holy Spirit, for looking out for me! ment). I don't know yet what the answer is, but it’s some- thing for the Holy Spirit to continue to reveal to me in His “For this reason, I urge you to stir into flame the gift of God own time...as I wait. that you have through the imposition of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather of So, as we continue our Lenten journey, I ask you to reflect power and love and self-control. So do not be ashamed on TWO things: of your testimony to our Lord, nor of me, a prisoner for his sake; but bear your share of hardship for the gospel with (1) What needs to be annihilated (removed entirely the strength that comes from God.” (2 Tm 1:6-8) from your life, like that all-consuming fire)? (2) What needs to be annihilated (redefined, I remember meditating on this scripture passage from the repurposed, or restored...like that phoenix)? second letter to Timothy. Paul, who after a season of waiting, now writing to Timothy from prison, and recalling In closing I leave you with words to live by from St. Eliza- their sorrowful parting, urges Timothy to remain faithful and beth: “Believe that He loves you. He wants to help you to continue witnessing to the Lord, even in the midst of Himself in the struggles which you must undergo. Believe hardship. As I meditated further, I had this image of an all- in His Love, His exceeding Love.” consuming fire and a phoenix, intermingling. St. Philip Benizi Parish Celebrates choir. At Whitewater, he joined the band and plays the th saxophone. As for sports, Xavier has served on a swim 7 Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day team, but his love is soccer. He started in a youth soccer league, moved on to AFC in Fayetteville, and is On January 18, 2021, St. Philip Benizi Catholic Church th currently involved with MOBA in Peachtree City. hosted its 7 Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration. Each year, the celebration is organized by Louella Xavier is a strong student in mathematics and science, DuBose of the St. Martin de Porres Society and Lois enjoys helping others to excel, and is considering Wolfe of the Social Justice Committee. Because of the becoming a surgeon or a professional soccer player (or Coronavirus pandemic, no reception was held after the both) in the future. At St. Philip Benizi, Xavier portrayed Mass, but all parishioners were encouraged to donate Fr. Augustus Tolton in a play sponsored by the Black non-perishable food items for the St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Heritage Committee. For several years, he also Food Pantry. Approximately 50 parishioners attended participated and assisted in Day Camp at our church. the Mass. In honor of African-American tradition, the Xavier’s hobbies are editing, video games and bowling. following liturgical hymns were sung during the Entrance After Xavier’s speech, Fr. John complimented him on his Procession and Communion: “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” superb performance and presented him with a plaque and “We Shall Overcome”. “The Battle Hymn of the from the MLK Committee. Republic” was sung during the Recessional. Special thanks go to Choir Director Buddy Teague for his fine (Article by Elaine Green; Photos by Chris Aluka Berry/ musical assistance during Mass. ALUKA Storytelling Photography)

Following all Covid-19 protocols, an in-person Mass was celebrated by St. Philip’s Fr. Santo Cricchio, OFM Conv. and concelebrated by our pastor, Fr. John Koziol and St. Philip’s Fr. Luis Palacios. This year, Fr. John invited Rev. Mr. Chester Griffin of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church to serve as the guest deacon and homilist. After reading the Gospel passage (Mark 2:18-22), Deacon Griffin delivered a powerful homily on “The Strength to Love”. He began the homily with a reflection on the unprecedented, frightening state of our country, including the assault on our voting rights, riots in our nation’s Capi- tal, and a pandemic which has taken over 400,000 American lives. In keeping with the Gospel, Deacon Griffin said, “We need hope, a new wine in new wine- skin, not old wine in new wineskin.” He referred to the election of a new president starting in 2021 as “new wine in new wineskin”.

Deacon Griffin then spoke about the principles of non- violent change and interdependence on each other, which Dr. King believed to be necessary for humane social change that benefits both the advocate for justice and the adversary. He said that Dr. King was the new wine of the 20th century with his words of unity, love, and freedom and justice for all. However, the country needs a new wineskin in order for the new wine to flow because “freedom and justice for all” still do not exist. We are called, he said, to Christ’s agape love, which is practiced through Christ’s teachings of loving God, ourselves, and our neighbors as ourselves. Dr. King’s book, “The Strength to Love”, tells how love can change the divisive- ness of people and our country. Deacon Griffin ended by saying, “With the love of Christ and wisdom of Martin and all the saints that we hold dear, we will continue to overcome the hate and evil of our times.”

At the end of Mass, Xavier Maxwell Jones recited, in his impressive oratorical voice, an excerpt of Dr. King’s speech, “On Being a Good Neighbor”. Xavier is no stranger to St. Philip Benizi Parish. He is the grandson of parishioner Louella DuBose, the son of Natalie and Michael Jones, and has a sister named Micah. Xavier is in the seventh grade at Whitewater Middle School and participates in several extracurricular activities. In Elementary School, he studied the piano and sang in the th St. Philip Benizi Parish Celebrates 7 Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Left: Fr. Luis Palacios, Fr. John Koziol, Deacon Chester Griffin, and Fr. Santo Cricchio; Deacon Griffin assisted during the Mass and was also the homilist (below left); Center: Buddy Teague and Ashe Griffin provided music for the Mass; Right: Louella DuBose served as Lector.

Pictured Above: (Left) After Communion, Xavier Maxwell Jones did an excellent job in reciting an excerpt from Dr. King’s speech, “On Being a Good Neighbor”.

(Center) Fr. John presented Xavier with a plaque from the MLK, Jr. Committee, in appreciation for his participation.

(Right) Xavier is pictured with his grandmother (Louella DuBose) and his mom, Natalie Jones, who is also Louella’s daughter.

“Thank You” to all who made this wonderful, inspirational celebration possible! Congratulations to St. Philip’s New Deacon—Dr. Henry Ohaya!

St. Philip Benizi Parish has certainly been blessed to have had so many new deacons flow from its doors. Since 2001, nine men have answered the call to serve our parish and community through the Permanent Diaconate – with many more having led the way before them. It isn’t easy, balancing family life, a job, and ministry to the Church…all at the same time…not to mention the five years of discernment, many classes, formation, spiritual direction, and a sincere commitment to God and His people to serve wherever and whenever needed. On Saturday, February 6, 2021, St. Philip’s own, Dr. Henry Ohaya, and five other men proclaimed their unequivocal “Yes” to God, the Catholic Church, and the Archbishop of Atlanta, and were ordained to the Permanent Diaconate at the Cathedral of Christ the King in Atlanta, GA. One other candidate was ordained as a “transitional Deacon” and will be ordained to the Priesthood in June of 2022.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, attendance at this wonderful and uplifting celebration was limited, but still, many arrived at the Cathedral to show their love and support for these candidates, including family and friends, parish priests and deacons. Henry’s wife, Ihuoma, their children, other family members and a few friends were present, as well as St. Philip’s pastor, Fr. John Koziol, Fr. Vincent Gluc and five of our deacons. Archbishop Gregory J. Hartmayer, OFM Conv. was the principal celebrant, with Auxiliary Bishops Joel Konzen and Bernard Shlesinger concelebrating, as well as Fr. Tri John-Bosco Nguyen (Director/Office of Vocations).

During his homily, Archbishop Greg addressed the candidates directly: “My dear candidates…the deacon, servant of Jesus, is the one who, like his Master, goes out to the poor, the lowly, the rejected, and those in the shadow of death. You are to carry to those on the periphery of society, the Father’s infinite and unconditional love. And you are to do so, not at a distance, but through identification. You are to become poor with the poor; you are to suffer with those who suffer; you are to enter into the hopelessness of the desperate, in order to convince them that nothing can ever come between us and the love of Jesus Christ.”

Regarding parish ministry and the authentic, sacramental life of the people of God, Archbishop Greg urged the candi- dates, in the words of Pope Francis, “Wake them up!” “In your ministry, wake them up! Challenge them! Enable them to see more…to see the same, but differently…to become renewed, re-energized, recommitted to the Church after having been away for so long. Bring them back to where they can be fed by the Word and by the Sacrament of the Eucharist. It takes excitement…it takes warmth…it takes hospi- tality to bring people back. And that will be your job, your responsibility, together with your pastors – to renew the life of the Church. Emphasize the grace of the sacraments, and their purpose, and the encounter with Jesus Christ that occurs each time we receive a sacrament. You cannot do that, sitting in your La-Z-Boy or in front of your computer.”

Archbishop Greg continued by noting the many other responsibilities that a deacon accepts in his new ministry, most especially, prayer. “You cannot be a servant, in the spirit of Jesus, unless you pray constantly…unless you give yourself to a regular contem- plation of the beauty that has appeared in the Incarnation. In praying the Liturgy of Hours, day in and day out, you will be drawn into intimacy with the Lord. You will find yourself more and more conformed to the image of Christ. My dear sons, prayer is not optional for Jesus’ ministers. It is your lifeblood, your source of inspiration. It is an indispensable support. If throughout your life, you want to be a minister who radiates the message of the Gospel, never-stop-praying!”

Archbishop Greg then concluded his homily with these inspiring words: “Proclaim the Gospel from your heart, your strength, and your experience. St. Paul reminds us to use our different gifts in accordance with the grace that God has given us. The love you share with the people of God is the same love that Christ offered you in giving you a vocation. Never doubt that it is Christ who has called you. It is He who has chosen you, not you who first chose Him. This love you know intimately already. He offers it to you on a daily basis, through the grace of your ordination. My dear brothers, ‘May God who has begun this good work in you, bring it to fulfillment.’ May the Lord grant you His peace. Amen.” (Photos by Yone Daly) - Visit SPB Photo Gallery: https://www.stphilipbenizi.org/107.

Left: Archbishop Greg presents the Book of the Gospels to Deacon Henry and each of the new deacons, saying, “Receive the Gospel of Christ whose herald you have become. Believe what you read, teach what you believe, and practice what you teach.” Right: Deacon Henry is all smiles as he stands with his family and Archbishop Greg after Mass. Ordination of Deacon Henry Ohaya!

Right: Above: After the Laying on of Hands and St. Philip’s Prayer of Consecration, the candidates Fr. Vincent become ordained deacons. Above Center: Gluc was Deacon Henry’s wife, Ihuoma, gives him a also present warm hug after being ordained. Right: at the Mass Fr. John Koziol (L) and Deacon Fred Toca to support (Deacon Henry’s mentor during the Diaco- Deacon nate Formation Process) help him put on Henry. his Stole and Dalmatic. Below Right: Deacon Left: A “COVID” Sign of Peace! Henry gave his wife, It must have been very special Ihuoma, one of his First for both Deacon Henry and Blessings after Mass, with Archbishop Greg to celebrate many more to follow into this Mass of Ordination. A the next day. member of St. Philip Benizi Parish since 2005, while “Fr. Greg” was then Pastor, Deacon Henry and his family were warmly welcomed into the parish family and encouraged by Fr. Greg and others to serve in ministry...and eventually enter the Diaconate Program. Seeing the warmth, gentleness and compassion that Henry has toward others, as well as his humility, it was evident to many that he would be an excellent candidate for the Diaconate.

Above Left: The 7 deacons are pictured with Archbishop Greg and Deacon Dennis Dorner (top row, right), Director of the Permanent Diaconate. Deacon José Espinosa, Co-Director of Formation is at top left. Above Right: Family and friends of the Ohaya family with Archbishop Greg. Below Left: Five of St. Philip’s deacons were also present to support their newly ordained brother in Christ. Deacon Henry Ohaya Celebrates Mass of Thanksgiving

On Sunday, February 7th, the day following his Ordination, Deacon Henry assisted Fr. John Koziol at the altar during the 7:30AM and 10AM Masses. This day was also special because it happened to be Deacon Henry’s birthday! During the Masses, he delivered his first homily, which was outstanding and insightful. Please be sure to read his words of thanksgiv- ing on the following page and the full text of his homily on our parish website: https://www.stphilipbenizi.org/116. (Livestream of the Ordination Mass can be viewed at: https:// livestream.com/archatl/ordination/videos/217187948.)

Our prayers for more vocations to the Priesthood, Diaconate and Religious Life are being answered! We are so pleased that Deacon Henry has been assigned to St. Philip Benizi Parish and look forward to walking this spiritual journey with him. Please continue to pray for Deacon Henry and his family as he grows in his new ministry and vocation. May God bless him with many years of dedicated service and may he develop a deeper, closer and more personal relationship with Jesus Christ as he serves. (Photos by Yone Daly & Susan Douglas) - Visit SPB Photo Gallery: https://www.stphilipbenizi.org/107.

At the beginning of the two Masses, Fr. John intro- duced our newest deacon to the congregation, which resulted in great applause. Deacon Henry seemed comfortable at the altar and delivered a wonderful, first homily!

After each Mass, many people congratulated Deacon Henry and asked for a special blessing, including Fr. John (top left). Using fist bumps, elbow bumps, handshakes, and yes, even hugs (despite the pandemic), the joy expressed by fellow parishioners was heartfelt and heartwarming.

Far Right: Ihuoma’s sister, Amaechi and baby Chisom, Deacon Henry, Amarachi, Ihuoma, Akunna, and...front and center...Arinze, who had a few dance moves to express his joy! Congratulations Deacon Henry! God bless you always!

Meet Deacon Henry Ohaya!

Deacon Henry Obilo Ohaya was born in Amaigbo, Nigeria. He is the third child and first son of Chief Hyacinth and Lolo Paulina Ohaya. He has two brothers and five sisters. Before immigrating to the United States in 1997, Deacon Henry lived and grew up in Lagos, Nigeria for 28 years. Deacon Henry is married to Ihuoma, his wife of 16 years. They have three chil- dren: Amarachi (daughter), Akunna (daughter) and Arinze (son). Deacon Henry is a practicing pharmacist and Pharmacy Manager with the Kroger Company in Atlanta, Georgia. He and his family reside in Fayetteville, Georgia.

A member of St. Philip Benizi Parish since 2005, Deacon Henry has been part of and has served in various parish ministries and councils. They include: Acolyte, Lector, Sacristan, Extra-ordinary Eucharistic Minister, Baptismal Preparation Classes, St. Vincent De Paul Society, Pastoral Council, Stewardship Council, African Council, and the Nigerian Community.

In 1990, Deacon Henry received a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Benin in Nigeria. In 1997, he received a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Lagos, also in Nigeria, and in 2007, Deacon Henry received a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Mercer University’s College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in Atlanta, Georgia. Deacon Henry’s hobbies and interests include: coaching Youth Soccer teams and watching competitive sports; traveling and experiencing different cultures; reading inspirational books; journaling; speaking; writing; teaching and “hanging out” with family and friends. His favorite quote is one from St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta: “We can do small things with great love!” Who was the most influential person in Deacon Henry’s life? – Chief Hyacinth Ohaya…his Dad.

Deacon Henry’s Words of Thanksgiving (Given at the beginning of his Homily)

“My dear brothers and sisters: First and foremost, all glory and honor, praise and thanksgiving belong to Almighty God who has made it possible for me to become a deacon. Second, I thank my parents: my dad Hyacinth (who is with the Lord) and my mom, Paulina Ohaya, who sowed the seed of faith in me as a child. I thank my brothers and my sisters for their support and prayers. In a special way, I thank my wife, Ihuoma and our kids, Amarachi, Akunna, & Arinze. Ihuoma you are a rock! Thank you. I thank the members of the Ohaya family and my in-laws, the Unogus, for their support, their prayers, and their love. In a special way, I thank Fr. John, our priests and my deacon brothers, for their support, their prayers and their love. I also want to thank every parishioner of St. Philip Benizi Catholic Church. You are awesome…your prayers, your love and your support carried me through my diaconate formation. I want to thank the Nigerian Community and the African Communi- ty for your special prayers and your support. Your love carried me.”

March—The Month Our prayers and of St. Joseph heartfelt sympathy go out to the family of: The Church traditionally dedicates the month of March to the special V Dr. Pablo Quintanilla, husband of Bertha Quintanilla veneration of St. Joseph, whose V Max Cagalawan, Jr., brother of Lilia Kipte and Feast Day is March 19. “He was Marlane Mamagat chosen by the eternal Father as V Carlos Jaurigue, husband of Juanita Jaurigue the trustworthy guardian and pro- V Audrey Joseph, wife of Raymond Joseph tector of his greatest treasures; V Frances Weikers, former parishioner namely, his divine Son, and Mary, V Betty Monteau, wife of Cliff Monteau Joseph’s wife,” said St. Bernardine V Anthony Onwugbufo Agbo, brother of parishioner, of Siena. “He carried out this vocation with complete Gabriel (Gabe) Agbo fidelity until at last God called him, saying ‘Good and V Eunice Adamma Anoruo, sister of parishioner faithful servant, enter into the joy of your Lord.’” Due Casey Orusa to St. Joseph’s leadership and care for the Holy Family, V Billy Fraser, brother of Kathy Cirincione he has been declared the protector and patron of the universal Catholic Church. (www.catholiccompany.com) “Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of the faithful departed, Rejoicing with our Adult Confirmandi! through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.” As of this writing, three adult parishioners received the Sacrament of Confirmation during the months of Jan- uary and February. Nina Jennings (pictured at right The Saint Philip with her daughters) was con- firmed on Sunday, January Be-News-Zi 31, 2021 at the 4PM Mass. Parishioner Lourdes Lucier was her sponsor. Lourdes’ Monthly Newsletter of and Nina’s moms are St. Philip Benizi Catholic Church cousins and came to the 591 Flint River Road United States together from the Philippines years ago. Jonesboro, GA 30238 Nina chose St. Elizabeth of (770) 478-0178 Hungry for her Confirmation name. Her daughters, Nailah Trice (age 6) and Nalani Fr. John A. Koziol, OFM Conv. (age 8) are preparing for the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist through the Family Catechu- Pastor/Publisher menate Program.

Yone Daly, Editor

Lyl Martinez and Tylor San- Parish Website: tos (left) received the Sacra- www.stphilipbenizi.org ment of Confirmation on Thursday, February 4, 2021 at the 8:30AM Mass. They Deadline: All articles submitted for publication in were married at St. Philip the Be-News-Zi must be received in writing (typed) or Benizi Church on Saturday, via e-mail, by the 5th of each month for publication in th February 6 , with Fr. John the following month’s edition. Each article submitted Koziol presiding. Lyl chose for consideration will be published as approved by St. Teresa of Calcutta as her the Pastor and on a space-available basis. Confirmation name and Tylor chose St. Michael the Any questions, comments, suggestions, or articles Archangel. concerning the newsletter may be addressed to the Editor through the Parish Office, or by e-mail:

We congratulate our newest Confirmandi and pray that God will continue to bless them as they continue their [email protected]. journey of faith.