The Catholic WITNESSWITNESS The Newspaper of the Diocese of Harrisburg Friday, October 25, 2019 VOL. 54 No. 20 OCTOBERConference 9, 2018 Upholds ‘Women of Light’ against VOL. 52 NO. 20 Destruction of Sexual Revolution
CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS Helen Alvar shares her keynote presentation at the annual Diocesan Women’s Conference on Oct. 12 at Bishop McDevitt High School in Harrisburg.
By Rachel Bryson, M.S. ibility to say, It’s not working. It’s a san Women’s Conference, Women traception, married priests and The Catholic Witness failure.’” of Light, Sisters in Christ, on Sat- homosexuality.” “You are women and this revolu- This is the message Helen Alvar urday, Oct. 12 at Bishop McDevitt Alvar explained that the Church tion has mostly been conducted shared with nearly 700 women High School in Harrisburg is one of the “last voices on these in your name. We have the cred- who attended the annual Dioce- A law professor at the Antonin subjects that is talking sense,” Scalia Law School at George Ma- and that Catholic women have “a IN THIS EDITION son University in Washington D.C., special vocation to speak to this Alvar shared many examples and about this. After all, a lot of Page 3 Lancaster County from both a legal and cultural what’s going on is supposedly in ministry feeds 10,000 for the holidays viewpoint that have led to our cur- the name of our freedom so we rent hyper-sexuali ed culture. She have a special responsibility to Pages 7-9 Diocese unveils explained that when it comes to speak to it.” post abortion healing conversations about the Catholic Casual sex, contraception, abor- ministry Church, the vast majority of the tion, a decrease in the number of Page 1 Lancaster Catholic information presented revolves marriages no topic was off limits sweeps District 3 around the “Sexy Six issues celi- as Alvar walked through the rise tennis bacy, sex abuse, abortion, con- More CONFERENCE, page 4 2 - The Catholic WITNESS • October 25, 2019 DIOCESAN NEWS Carlisle Native becomes Novice with Trappistines On Aug. 15, 2019, the Feast of young women to various religious the Assumption of the Blessed COURTESY OF MARIA KEY communities and how to discern Sister Lily Marie Virgin Mary, Lily Key, originally of God’s call. St. Patrick Parish in Carlisle, be- The Cistercians of the Strict came Sister Lily Marie, a novice in Observance, also known as Trap- the Order of the Cistercians of the pistines, are a contemplative Strict Observance. community and part of the Bene- She had spent one year as a dictine family. Mount Saint Mary’s Postulant at Mount Saint Mary’s Abbey has approximately 40 Abbey in Wrentham, Mass. At the Sisters. Like all Benedictines, their end of a two-year novitiate period, life is grounded in “Ora et Labora,” she may make her first Vows of prayer and work. In addition to Stability, Conversion of Life and Mass and praying the Liturgy of Obedience. the Hours seven times a day, the Sister Lily Marie was home- Sisters support themselves by schooled and earned a B.A. in The- making and selling candy. Contem- ology from the University of Dal- plative nuns and monks live a hid- las. She attended one of the first den life, but their presence is vital Fiat Days retreats in the Diocese to the life of the Church because of Harrisburg, which introduces of their prayer for the whole world.
Bring Comfort
— to Your — Mount Saint Mary’s Abbey hosts of meeting other young women two “Monastic Experience Week- who are seeking their place in ends” per year, where women the Church. Time is provided for Loved Ones between the ages of 20 and individual conversations with the 40 can spend some time at the sisters on the formation team.” monastery. These weekends “give For more information on the Cis- With the cris fall weather, it s time to ull warmer clothes out women discerning a religious vocation an immersion in our com- tercians of the Strict Observance, from your closet. s you bring out your favorite sweater, take a contact their Vocation Director, moment to think about the other things that bring comfort munal prayer and a taste of our way of life through the witness and Sister Katie McNamara, at 508- friends, family and your faith community. experience of some of our sisters. 541-7340 or s.katie@msmabbey. These events also offer the joy org, or visit www.msmabbey.org. Did you know that you can leave a wonderful legacy to benefit your family, friends, arish, atholic school or the Diocese using money you no longer need onsider your checking, savings, investment and retirement accounts. With a beneficiary B G ’ designation, you can name the eo le P C or causes you want to receive what s left of these accounts when you ass • October 26 – Celebrate Mass for • October 29 – Celebrate Closing of away. Cursillo Grand Ultreya, Diocesan Forty Hours Devotions, St. Joseph Center, Harrisburg, 9 a.m. Church, Mechanicsburg, 7 p.m. ust like the warmth of a familiar • October 27 – Confirmation for • November 3 – Celebrate Knights sweater, knowing you have hel ed onta t the e o Lancaster Mater Dei Latin Mass Stewardship & Development of Columbus Memorial Mass, St. others this season is a great feeling. Community, St. Joseph Church, or the Dio ese o arris r Patrick Cathedral, Harrisburg, 9:30 Lancaster, 2 p.m. at (717) 657-4804 ext. 245 or a.m. development h dio ese.or • October 28 – Attend LARC (Lu- op ri ht 201 res endo ntera ve n . or more in orma on. theran, Anglican, Roman Catholic) • November 9 – Celebrate Mass for sed permission. 1 16 Day of Dialogue, Diocesan Center, Diocesan Catechetical Conference, Harrisburg. Diocesan Center, Harrisburg.
The Catholic Publisher: 4800 Union Deposit Road The Catholic Witness (ISSN 0008-8447, The Most Rev. Ronald W. Gainer, Harrisburg, PA 17111-3710 USPS 557 120) is published biweekly except DD, JCL, Bishop of Harrisburg Phone: 717-657-4804 Christmas/New Year and July by the Harrisburg FAX: 717-657-7673 Catholic Publishing Association, 4800 Union Deposit Road, Harrisburg, PA 17111 3710. Executive Director for Public Relations: [email protected] WITNESS Periodicals postage paid at Harrisburg, PA. WITNESS Rachel Bryson, M.S. The Newspaper of the Diocese of Harrisburg THE NEWSPAPER OF THE [email protected] Yearly subscriptions derived OCTOBER 9,DIOCESE 2018 OF HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA VOL. 52 NO. 20 from diocesan revenues from POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Managing Editor: parishes. Non-parishioners: The Catholic Witness, 4800 Union Deposit Road, Harrisburg, PA 17111-3710. The mission of The Catholic Witness is to Jennifer Reed $12.00. [email protected] be of personal and practical help as we try Moving? Send us your old and to be loyal and true witnesses for Christ in Photojournalist: new addresses via mail or e- our daily living, spiritual and temporal, in Chris Heisey mail. Allow three weeks for deliv- private and in public. [email protected] ery to resume. www.hbgdiocese.org A EW AN ECI IEN S October 25, 2019 • The Catholic WITNESS - 3 Lancaster County Project Provides Meals for 10,000 at Annual Day of Service By en Ree unable to travel to the of her family’s The Catholic Witness stadium. Christmas tradi- Each year on the Sat- “Our mission is to pro- tions. urday before Christmas, vide everyone in need with “It definitely Aimee Ketchum and her food, to ensure that they makes us a lot daughters wake up well have a nice holiday meal more thankful for before dawn, hop in their for Christmas, said Tom what we have, car and head to downtown Fasnacht, project coordina- and when we’re Lancaster. tor and a member of St. opening our gifts By the time they get to ames Parish in Litit . on Christmas, it their destination at 4 00 brings us back a.m., the Ketchums find to reality to think Aimee Ketchum began scores of people waiting in about everybody volunteering with the an- line, braving the cold and who isn’t as nual project more than sometimes the snow for fortunate as we 15 years ago. When her the annual holiday tradi- are,” she said. tion. daughters were kindergar- COURTESY OF LANCASTER COUNTY PRO ECT FOR THE NEEDY The Kethcums aren’t ten-age, she started bring- More than 500 volunteers assist with providing items for a holiday meal that ing them with her, instilling will feed six to eight people. The project is a recipient of grant moneys awarded searching for bargains on through the Diocese’s Matthew 25 Collection its grant application was supported Christmas gifts, though. the value of service at an The Lancaster by Assumption BVM Parish in Lancaster. They’re helping to distrib- early age. County Project ute meals and cold-weath- The Ketchums, mem- for the Needy began in food, clothing and shelter. recipients of food items the er items to those who are bers of St. ames Parish 198 , an effort of two men Seventy-five percent of project volunteers deliver. less fortunate. in Litit , have also under- who set out to help the the money contributed to “It means a lot, because Now in its 33rd year, the taken efforts to provide less fortunate by giving the Matthew 25 Collec- there are a lot of us that Lancaster County Project people with winter-weather grocery bags filled with tion is distributed through live here that have no for the Needy distributes items, especially as they food necessary to make a grants to parish-supported families and really rely on more than 2,500 boxes wait in line for their pack- meal. The first year, they ministries, like the out- something good they can of food, complete with age of food. distributed more than 150 reach center. Twenty-five make,” she said. “Every- everything recipients need “We noticed early on turkeys. percent of the collection is body seems really happy to to cook a holiday meal that the recipients stand- Today, the project gives given back to the parishes get it. It’s very nice to get that will feed six to eight ing in line weren’t always out more than 2,500 for their support of people something different, a full people. dressed in the warmest turkeys and all the trim- in need. meal at the holidays. The meal-distribution clothes. I had my children mings, feeding in excess of “We have been very “We thank them very day takes place a few days dressed in snow pants, 10,000 people. blessed through the much for what they’re do- before Christmas at Clip- gloves and hats, and we’d “It’s an ama ing day,” Matthew 25 grant that ing, because it’s for a good per Maga ine Stadium. As see babies with garbage Fasnacht said. “The spirit we receive because we purpose,” Hornberger said early as 3 a.m., recipients bags around their stroll- of the volunteers is incred- have been able to pur- of the project’s volunteers line up at the venue, where ers,” Ketchum said. “So we ible. We get young and old, chase additional turkeys and the contributors to the more than 500 volunteers had the idea that we could and to see how excited and provide more meals Matthew 25 Collection. greet them with turkeys, help the recipients in line the young people are is throughout the county. “We are grateful for them.” roasting pans, potatoes, with bringing hot chocolate inspirational. I see a lot of Each year, we’ve been able “It really comes in handy. eggs, milk, bread, fruits and maybe some hats, the young people engage to grow this project, and Not everybody has family and vegetables. gloves and scarves.” the recipients and start it’s only through generous around here,” said Kendall. Additional volunteers Over the years, their col- conversations with them, donations to Matthew 25,” “And there’s always some- deliver packages of food lection of the items large- to really understand what it Fasnacht said. body here, maybe a neigh- to local residents who are ly gathered through dona- is that’s happening in their “It can be very stressful bor, who will share with tion boxes they lives.” for people who are trying other people, or cook the place throughout According to the project, to figure out how they’re meal for people who don’t town grew to in- 72 percent of all house- going to buy gifts for their know how to.” clude coats, boots, holds in Lancaster County children, or how they’re “We’re grateful that there snow pants and are cost-burdened, mean- going to have a meal for are people out there who blankets. ing that families utili e at their family. We hope that even think of us, to do “One year, we least 50 percent of their we can relieve a little bit of these meals,” she said. had three or four income for rent mortgage, that stress and give a little his is the se on in full carloads with utilities and transportation. joy to people, so they don’t series of three rti es on more than 2,000 The Lancaster County have to worry about putting org ni tions s orte pieces,” she said. Project for the Needy is a a meal on the table. Mat- the io ese s tthe Ketchum’s recipient of grant money thew 25 is about helping Co e tion to ro i e daughter, Kayla, a distributed from the Dio- people who don’t neces- foo , othing n she ter high school senior, cese of Harrisburg’s annu- sarily have what we have,” to eo e in o r omm said collecting the al Matthew 25 Collection. he said. nities he o e tion i winter-weather The collection, which will Romaine Hornberger and t e e in rishes the The Lancaster County Project for the Needy items and serving take place in parishes the Claudia Kendall, residents ee en of o Le rn distributes more than 2,500 boxes of food on food distribu- weekend of Nov. 24, sup- of a Section 8 Housing more t h g io ese during a day of service at Clipper Maga ine tion day is part ports efforts that provide complex in Lancaster, are org m . Stadium on the Saturday before Christmas. - The Catholic WITNESS • October 25, 2019 DIOCESAN NEWS CONFERENCE Continued from 1 of the sexual revolution and how this movement has been destruc- tive for women, children, families and society. Alvar reviewed several legal cases during her keynote address, stating that “all of these separate sex from marriage from children. What they really did was add value to non-procreative sex. That’s the trajectory of sex cases.” Traveling back to the early years of Christianity, Alvar added that Christians stood out in Greco-Ro- man times because of their views on sex, marriage and parenting. “ esus’ statement about how husbands should treat their wives, His statements against divorce, how He treated children Chris- tians became uite distinctive,” said Alvar . “They rejected contra- ception, abortion, infanticide from CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS the very beginning of the Church.” Bishop Ronald Gainer celebrates Mass for nearly 700 women gathered at the annual Fast forward to today, where the Diocesan Women’s Conference at Bishop McDevitt High School. views of marriage and procreation have been drastically changed un- Blessed Sacrament, music by God loves you. I hope today has der the guise of freedom, and now Se sons, opportunity for Confes- helped you in that way. Maybe is the time for women to stand up. sion, fellowship with hundreds of you encountered Christ in confes- “The sexual revolution has been women, and Mass celebrated by sion, which brought you peace and devastating for children. We now Bishop Ronald Gainer. strength.” have four out of every 10 chil- “My hope, my prayer for each of “By obedience to Christ in the dren growing up without both a you that came to our conference, ordinary routines of your lives, mom and a dad. It can’t be fixed my hope and prayer for you is that you will be for your families, in the in every case, but it shouldn’t be today’s experience here, some of workplace, in your neighborhoods, celebrated as some kind of prog- the things you heard, some of the in your parishes, in the Church ress for women’s e uality. We also times of prayer, some of the time and in a world that so desperately want to take the lead to avoid the in receiving absolution, some of needs you to be, you will be Wom- awful violations that come with those experiences will help you en of Light and Sisters of Christ,” a lack of sexual respect between on the path to true happiness, said Bishop Gainer. men and women,” said Alvar . authentic beatitude,” said Bishop The conference was a group trip “We are so against the world’s Gainer during his homily. “Maybe for several young women involved view of things now. We need to do you find yourself at this time in a in campus ministry at Bloomsburg this not as a defensive rear guard valley of decision and I hope that University. action, but in a celebration that you received some grace today Gabriella immerman, a St. what we promote is love.” that will help you in this valley Columba parishioner and campus A woman kneels during the Liturgy of the F F of decision. Maybe some of you minister at Bloomsburg, said she Eucharist. Alvar ’s keynote address kicked found a burst of enthusiasm for heard about the conference and hyper-sexuali ation or we’ll be put off a day filled with more than some aspect of our faith, a burst saw it as a great opportunity for to the side,” added immerman. 40 workshops, Adoration of the of new enthusiasm for how much those involved in this ministry. The Kira Paige, a Catholic-in-training young women found Alvar ’s key- who attends St. Columba, added A woman enjoys camaraderie note thought provoking and were that she was excited to attend the as she peruses vendors at the looking forward to the rest of the conference to learn about using conference. conference sessions. her gifts more fully in whatever “I think she Alvar made a lot way God has in store for her. of great points that it’s up to us to Elena Vergura from Our Lady of make decisions,” said Sarah Emily Victory Parish and Anna Watson D’Agostino, a parishioner from from St. Peter’s both explained Holy Name of esus Parish in Har- they were looking forward to the risburg and a member of campus sessions on how to discern real ministry at Bloomsburg University. love. “A lot of these laws were made The Women’s Conference is to help us, but haven’t helped. It coordinated through the Diocesan seems like they have been using Office of Evangeli ation and Cat- women and we have to be aware echesis. More information on the of that.” conference can be found at “We need to have other resourc- www.hbgdiocese.org event es in our conversations related to womens-conference. CA O IC SC OO S October 25, 2019 • The Catholic WITNESS - Foundation Gives to Catholic Education By Donna al er Retired pharmacist Ger- came before who wanted Lancaster County. onn W er is the ecial to The Witness ald Ganse formed the foun- to pass it forward,” Ganse To learn more about CEF, r eting ire tor t es Families whose children dation five years ago as explained. contact Ganse at 717-577- rre tion C tho i S hoo . attend Resurrection Catho- an independent nonprofit. “My husband and I work 2735. lic School in Lancaster call He visited Resurrection hard to pay tuition . I feel it a “blessing,” and they on Oct. 1 to meet families so privileged to have this have “three generations of awarded 7,211 in CEF help,” Yaneth Rubio said. people who came before” grants, specifically from She said her children are who handed down the pos- the Dr. Albert . and Mrs. naturally kind to others sibility to them. Ave Marie But Schreder they meet, even strangers “We don’t ever feel dif- and Family fund. in a grocery store. ferent here,” Kassandra “Dr. Al always believed “That comes from here,” Settle told Gerald Ganse, in Catholic education and Rubio said. president of the Catholic he wanted to give back to The Catholic Education Education Foundation, others. He and his family Foundation is another way which provides tuition established a fund to help for Catholics to give, Ganse assistance. “For my girls families come to Resur- said, in a way that advanc- to come here is beyond a rection. There are three es the vision and mission blessing.” generations of people who for Catholic education in
COURTESY OF DONNA WALKER, RESURRECTION CATHOLIC SCHOOL Gerry Ganse, right, founder of the Catholic Education Foundation, stands with Madalyn Settle, Melanie Martine , William Martine , Yaneth Rubio, Emilly Settle and Kassandra Settle to recogni e the contribution of the CEF which provides tuition assistance to families in Lancaster County.
COURTESY OF LISA MADDU In observance of the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi, St. Patrick School in Carlisle welcomed animals big and small for a pet bless- ing at the school. The pet population was overwhelmingly canine this year, with a few cats, li ards, chickens and guinea pigs as well. Camille Gross is pictured with her chickens and Alexsia Bartoli is seen hugging her dog.
Share Your School News Schools are encouraged to share news about events and student achievements for publication in The Witness. COURTESY OF HOLY FAMILY SCHOOL Photos and follow-up stories are selected for publication on Students at Holy Family School in Berwick welcomed the new Diocesan Secretary for Education and the Catholic Schools page in most editions. Event promotion Superintendent of Schools, Daniel Breen, on Oct. 2. Breen, who plans to visit all 38 Diocesan schools before Thanksgiving, toured Holy Family and met with students and staff. The fourth-grade students is printed on the Diocesan Notebook page. Send your news are pictured with Breen, center and Pete Morisco, right, principal. to [email protected]. 6 - The Catholic WITNESS • October 25, 2019 EA ES ON E AI St. Pius Parish Participates in National Rosary Rally By s n En le COURTESY OF USTIN ENGLE, ecial to The Witness THE DAILY ITEM Fifty members of St. Pius Heather Effinger prays Parish in Selinsgrove the Rosary. took part in a Rosary Rally on Oct. 12 as part of a national event where more than 20,000 rallies took place across the United States with the goal of spreading the word of Our Lady of Fatima. Our Lady of Fatima is the name given to the appari- tion of the Virgin Mary that Father Tukura Pius Mi- good.” Rosa Attig makes the Sign of the Cross during the Rosary Rally held appeared to three children chael, O.P., pastor of St. Heather Effinger, of Se- by St. Pius Parish in Selinsgrove on Oct. 12. in Portugal in 1917. Pius Parish, said, “we have linsgrove, a much-involved During the 30-minute come to pray for our nation member of the church, the church, as it’s named ish, was in attendance and gathering, parishioners and to ask for peace in our enjoyed the service. “To after a former parishioner, called the service “nice,” sang, worshiped, prayed world.” be present and be part of Charles Attig, r., a Sham- adding that the park “is a the Rosary and prayed for Coordinator for the event, something bigger, there are okin Dam Police officer nice memory of him.” America under a pavilion at Sherry Evans, called it no words to describe it.” killed in the line of duty. stin ng e is riter Charles Attig Park in Sham- “very important,” saying, The event’s location Attig’s mother, Rosa Attig, n hotogr her for he okin Dam. “I care about the common had a special meaning for a member of St. Pius Par- i tem White Mass Recognizes Health Care Workers
CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS Members of the Diocesan Guild of the Catholic Medical Association present the gifts to Bishop Ronald Gainer.
The Diocese’s annual White 20 to recogni e their vocation and tors and Mass drew Catholic physicians, pray for God’s blessings upon their other health health care workers, dentists and work. care work- medical students to St. Patrick Bishop Ronald Gainer was the ers who are Cathedral in Harrisburg on Oct. principal celebrant and homilist united by for the Mass. faith and The annual committed Mass is spon- to the ethical sored by the practice of Altar servers lead the entrance procession for the Diocesan White Harrisburg medicine. Mass for health care workers. Diocesan Guild The Catho- of the Catho- lic Medial Guild provides spiri- Catholic physicians, dentists, lic Medical tual and professional support to medical students, health care Association, members. Since being chartered workers and clergy interested in a chartered in 2009, it has sponsored Lenten learning more about the Catholic The congregation at St. Patrick professional days of re ection, summer family Medical Association should visit Cathedral participates in the association of picnics at the Carmelite monastery www.cathmed.org or annual White Mass on Oct. 20. Catholic doc- in Elysburg and the White Mass. www.cathmedharrisburg.org . O EC AC E A O ION EA IN INIS October 25, 2019 • The Catholic WITNESS - 7 Project Rachel Offers Healing to Those Suffering in the Aftermath of Abortion By en Ree ing,” Biter said at a recent pro-life The Catholic Witness event at St. Patrick Parish in York. “I couldn’t get over what I had “Based on statistics, one in four done. I was so broken. I begged women will become a victim of God for forgiveness for what abortion by the age of 45.” seemed like a million times, but “In a church with 1,200 families, never knew how to forgive myself.” based on statistics, some 300 Becky Biter was in the throes of women will be impacted by abor- post-abortion traumatic stress, tion. When we factor in the often- suffering from two abortions she’d forgotten fathers, our number had as a teenager. She knew what doubles 00 people impacted by she had done. In the years that fol- a decision they never will be able lowed, she cried constantly, strug- to reverse,” she remarked. “It’s gled to function as a stay-at-home not just the babies’ lives that are mom, lost hope for her future, and at stake it’s the life of the moth- contemplated suicide. er, the father, the whole family.” She didn’t know where to turn. “We cannot be afraid to talk “For 20 years, my husband and about abortion,” Biter stressed. I sat in the pew and never heard “Women and men need to hear the word abortion’ being spoken that they are not alone in their about, and so it wasn’t something suffering. They need to know we thought our pastor could help where they can find hope, to heal us with,” she said. “We spent most their broken hearts. They need to of our marriage hiding behind know about post-abortion healing masks.” ministries.” But ten years ago, Biter found healing through a retreat that is part of a multi-faceted approach Project Rachel is a diocesan- the Diocese of Harrisburg is un- based network. Specially trained dertaking to give compassion and priests, religious, counselors and hope to those struggling with the laypersons offer a team response grief of abortion. of care for those suffering in the Project Rachel is the U.S. Catho- aftermath of abortion. lic Church’s ministry to those who The ministry is available to have been involved in abortion. It anyone regardless of their faith provides an integrated network of who was involved in an abor- ministries and services includ- tion the woman, her boyfriend or ing the Sacrament of Reconcilia- husband, her parents or grandpar- tion, pastoral counseling, support ents, and siblings grieving the loss groups, retreats and referrals to of their aborted brother or sister. licensed mental health profession- It is currently being introduced in als tailored to each woman’s the Diocese of Harrisburg through needs. the Diocesan Office of Family and “Post-abortion traumatic stress Respect Life Ministries. is very real, and very devastat- More RO EC R C E continued on page
“I want you to know I went to Confession tonight. I was terrified. Needlessly. The priest who heard my confession was not disgusted by me, or angry with me. He never stopped smiling at me even as I revealed my ugliest sins. He was gentle, kind, and loving. Of course, this made me cry. Hard. He was patient. He absolved me of my sins. Told me I was worthy of all God’s kingdom. So not what I expected. Thank you so much for being there in a way that didn’t make me feel dirty or contemptible. For making me feel human again.” ressions of e ing n h n s, ho e fter ortion om COURTESY OF THE USCCB 8 - The Catholic WITNESS • October 25, 2019 O EC AC E A O ION EA IN INIS
RO EC R C E COURTESY OF THE USCCB From page esus’ message of mercy, “Neither do I condemn you,” is Tom O’Neill, Director of the Of- given through Project Rachel. fice, attended a conference for Respect Life Directors offered by the USCCB last year and felt called to introduce Project Rachel here. He commended the many pro-life resources in central Pennsylvania including parish pro-life minis- tries, pregnancy resource centers and pro-life witnesses outside of abortion facilities. “I felt the Holy Spirit was calling us to do more in one area post- abortion ministry,” he said. “We have hosted a strong, vibrant Ra- chel’s Vineyard retreat program for many years. However, post-abor- tion ministry also needs a high profile to reach as many people as possible, the type of profile the Diocese can provide.” In the Diocese of Harrisburg, the Project Rachel network includes 10 therapists and 25 priests spe- cifically oriented to the ministry. During their annual workshop Oct. 13-18, Diocesan priests were introduced to the ministry’s launch in the Diocese of Harrisburg. “By training priests and thera- Plummer ministered with Project Regardless of the particular undefeated courage. I begged pists to address trauma and grief Rachel in the Diocese of Raleigh program that sets them on their him to drown me in the sea of his as well as guilt, and by giving and has more than 20 years of journey, “Project Rachel means mercy, and he embraced my soul post-abortive women and men an experience working with post-abor- that there is a confidential, desig- and pulled me from the pit,” she anonymous, compassionate and tive women and men. nated helpline where women can said. non-judgmental way to ask for Meeting them where they are be confident that the person on A Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat help, Project Rachel Ministry ex- and listening to their stories is the other end of the line is going weekend provides an opportunity tends esus’s mission of love and critical, she said. to listen, understand where they’re for women to examine their abor- forgiveness to those who need it “Sometimes a first step for them coming from and have a compas- tion experience, identify the ways most,” O’Neill said. is, I just want to talk to somebody sionate response that directs her that the loss has impacted them, Those seeking hope and healing that has some knowledge of what to healing opportunities,” said and acknowledge any unresolved can connect to the ministry in a the healing process looks like.’ Mary McClusky, Assistant Director feelings. number of ways by contacting the Sometimes a woman or man may of Project Rachel Ministry Develop- Father Dwight Schlaline, pastor helpline directly, by speaking with very uickly identify, I want to talk ment for the United States Confer- of Our Lady of the Visitation Parish a priest in pastoral counseling or to a priest,’ or, they may need to ence of Catholic Bishops’ Secre- in Shippensburg, ministers at the in the confessional, or by talking to talk with a therapist first,” she tariat of Pro-Life Activities confidential retreat weekends, a therapist. said. “Whenever we talk about abor- which are offered regularly in the “It is very difficult for a woman or “What they need to hear when tion, we must always include the Diocese. a man to reach out in seeking help they do pick up the phone is, message that healing and forgive- “It is a retreat experience in for post-abortion counseling. Many There is help for you,’” Plummer ness are possible Yes, abortion is which people who have experi- times, it’s ten years or more after said. a sin, and we recogni e the loss of enced abortion are able to walk the abortion experience before Avenues for healing and forgive- your child and we want to help you through the grief process, or at someone will step forward to find ness include the Sacrament of heal,’” she said. least start it,” he said. Reconciliation, pastoral coun- Father Schlaline is passionate help or call or make in uiries,” seling, professional counseling, about the ministry. said Linda Plummer, Executive Di- Nine years ago, and more than support groups and the Rachel’s “I’ve really learned what a wom- rector of Morning Star Pregnancy two decades since her abor- Vineyard Retreat. an with post-abortion syndrome Services. tions, Becky Biter was plagued by is going through. Most people thoughts of suicide. don’t know what that is, because “I planned to slam my truck into it’s politically incorrect to look at “I pray for forgiveness for us all and for our hard hearts a tree, because I thought that was abortion as such a horrific thing. to be touched by esus Christ. My child forgives me. the only way out of my misery,” Society tells us it’s supposed to This I know by special graces. That is the icing on the she said. be a useful’ thing, but it is very Fortunately, she found help cake, because I know that Christ forgave me long ago. destructive, especially for a wom- through a Rachel’s Vineyard Re- Sacramental penance and laying her properly to rest an,” he said. treat. through Project Rachel are invaluable healing.” Post-abortive women can expe- “The Holy Spirit led us to Ra- rience a range of emotions and chel’s Vineyard, and at our retreat, ressions of e ing n h n s, unhealthy behaviors, including ho e fter ortion om he bestowed on us the grace of More RO EC R C E continued on page O EC AC E A O ION EA IN INIS October 25, 2019 • The Catholic WITNESS - 9
secret burden, to walking away RO EC R C E “I had 2 abortions one when I was 17 and the other From page saying, I feel light.’ I feel peace.’ God has forgiven me.’ My chil- when I was 22. I lived with the pain and depression shame, depression, anger, night- dren have forgiven me.’ My rela- caused by those mistakes for over 27 years. I spent most mares, anxiety, withdrawal from tionships with other people can be of that time trying to deny that I had any lasting problems family and friends, fear of intima- different now,’” she said. from those procedures. cy, unhealthy sexual relationships, Based on inconsistent report- During this time I suffered a major depression and substance abuse and suicidal ing re uirements from research centers and institutes, a likely suicidal thoughts. I felt like I wasn’t worthy to be anyone’s thoughts. friend or even to be alive. A Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat is estimate is that nearly one in one way to begin the healing pro- four women in the United States It wasn’t until I heard someone from Project Rachel tell cess, Father Schlaline said. will have had an abortion by age her story. My husband and I were in our car coming home “There’s a strong sense with 45. For those involved in Project and I began crying along with the lady on the radio and the women who go on the retreat Rachel, the message of mercy is I knew right then that I needed to grieve and mourn the that everything bad that happens crucial to helping a woman heal death of my two children. to them after the abortion is a from the emotional and psycho- logical scars. I contacted Project Rachel and went to a retreat to heal. punishment from God. We have to It was the most extraordinary experience I have ever work with that pastorally,” he said. “Approach it from a perspective The weekend allows participants that there are probably people in experienced and I now feel forgiven by both God and to experience esus’ mercy and my family, friends, people sitting myself.” healing in a real way, confidentially next to me in the pew that have had this experience,” Plummer ressions of e ing n h n s, among others who are struggling. ho e fter ortion om Father Schlaline said post-abor- advised. “Whenever we are talk- tion grief is often considered “a ing about a pro-life message, we walk with her along the journey to forbidden grief.” always have to mention that we empower or free her,” McClusky healing and hope. We can give her “It’s a grief that a lot of people have this ministry of the Church, said. the gift of listening and compas- won’t understand . The only and there is an open door to heal- The Church’s response to a wom- sion.” place people really have to grieve ing . The message we need to an seeking healing and forgive- More information on Project Ra- the loss of their unborn baby is make sure everybody hears is that ness from an abortion can be the chel and other post-abortive min- through Project Rachel, the Sacra- there are people who can help difference between her walking istries in the Diocese of Harrisburg ment of Reconciliation, the Ra- you.” away from the Church, or coming can be found at www.hbgdiocese. chel’s Vineyard retreat,” he said. McClusky said the Church’s back to it, she said. org respectlife, by calling Healing and forgiveness are teaching on the value of human “We understand the truth and 717-857-2282 or by emailing found in the Sacrament of Recon- life also extends to its compassion want to help bring her to Christ, [email protected]. ciliation. for those who have had an abor- who can heal that wound. We can “A woman has to have a lot of tion. courage to confess, but once they “Since do, there’s a kind of release, a lift- we greatly ing of the burden off of the shoul- treasure ders,” Father Schlaline said. the incom- “We cannot be dismissive, or tell parable a woman that it’s not a big deal. gift of life, The worst thing you can do is say naturally that someone’s abortion didn’t it follows mean anything. That’s what every- that we one else is doing, but that’s where also ap- the Church is distinct,” he re- preciate a marked. “We receive their grief in woman’s the sacrament and we give them loss. Con- God’s forgiveness,” he said. sider that McClusky said Project Rachel is since we a ministry of the Church because so greatly it continues esus’ healing minis- treasure try. both the “The Lord offers his mercy and life of the forgiveness any time Confession mother is available and won’t refuse a re- and her pentant heart. We the Church are child, nat- here to proclaim and offer the gift urally we of Christ’s mercy,” she said. are going to be ap- O preciative C of what “I have never seen such trans- it means formational healing take place as when a I have witnessed in this ministry,” woman Plummer said of her experience in has been Project Rachel. convinced “What I see is women and men by the lie coming from such pain and suf- that abor- fering, shame and guilt with this tion will - The Catholic WITNESS • October 25, 2019 ES EC I E ON Healing within Marriage from an Abortion ro he S B Res ec unaware of the other’s past abor- may not e ro ra tion experience, some feel it is cru- be willing When Susan’s husband, uan, cial for him or her to be told, while to prac- told her about the abortion he was others believe it is in the past and tice their faith involved in when he was in col- it’s not necessary to address it. But if “the two shall become one” because lege, she finally understood why of the Mt 19 5 , can the marital union be a beautiful way to unite the he was so depressed and had guilt and shame they feel, which be brought to its fullest potential trouble bonding with their chil- deprives them of spiritual consola- couple as the family God intends dren. However, she wanted him with the secret of an abortion tion and drives a wedge between them to be, as Steve recogni ed to just get over it, without seeking lingering in the past them and their spouse. “ m e the e ision th t this help from a post-abortion healing Steve doesn’t think so “...look- It is scary for a person to tell his s rt of h t s ro ght to ministry. It bothered her to think of ing back over our 29 years of mar- fianc e or her fianc or spouse o r m rri ge in goo times n in him dealing with this in relation to riage, it is probably the one thing about a past abortion. It re uires , in si ness n in he th to another woman and child. from either of our pasts that has great trust in that person’s love o e n honor the s of m During Steve’s premarital prepa- affected our marriage more than for them and trust in God. Unfortu- ife t e th t o serio s We ration with his now wife, the topic any other.” nately, sometimes that knowledge h to m e this o rne together of her past abortion never arose. It is no secret that the devas- can threaten the relationship, but no oo on it th t h e Now married and participating in tation of abortion brings with it it can also be a means for the t o sons, the one hom she a post-abortion healing ministry, many challenges. Many times the couple to grow closer together. on ei e efore e met, n the Steve notes, “It is one of the ues- people who have participated in Through the help of a post- one e on ei e together Wo tions you never think to ask during an abortion are not even aware of abortion healing ministry, couples it e n ifferent if the hi h premarital preparation.” the countless ways it is affecting can successfully work through i e n ere here resent in With an estimate of over 5 mil- their lives. Often, it is not until they abortion-related challenges, and o r i es o he on re iffer lion abortions in our country since recogni e some of the effect it is God’s grace can bring true healing en e is th t e h e hi ho is the infamous oe s W e deci- having and become involved in a in their relationships. Matt shared ith o n ho is or ing n sion of 1973, there’s little doubt healing ministry that they begin to his own story of this experience r ing for s ” that countless marriages are suf- more clearly identify their personal “ h h r time e rning Abortion affects countless mar- fering from one or both spouses’ abortion connectors people, plac- o t the ortion n s not riages more than many people involvement in an abortion. es or things that trigger memories s re if in f t s sti going to recogni e. But there is no doubt Although many of the same of their abortion experience . e e to m rr m n e t that God will bring great healing struggles may arise when only one It is not uncommon for those ten ing the retre t he e me to to those who trust in his infinite spouse was involved in a previous suffering from past abortions to re ogni e th t she s the s me mercy. If a past abortion can be abortion, couples who aborted overreact to present situations erson h o e the efore acknowledged and addressed, a their own child before marriage because of the trauma they expe- e rne , n th t if o h married couple can make great may experience their own uni ue rienced. For example, what would forgi en her, nee e to forgi e strides in experiencing even more difficulties, as Tina shares otherwise be a normal disagree- her s e hro gh o nse ing fully God’s design that “the two “... i n t thin it othere me ment between spouses can seem n ire tion e h e een e shall become one” Mt 19 5 . nti fter e ere m rrie for like a very real act of abandon- to or thro gh the m n fee ings he stories of S s n, n, e r n o r son s orn s ment to someone who was co- n fe rs h , n fee on Ste e, in n tt their n mes so resentf th t m h s n erced into having an abortion. An ent e re no e to or on re h nge for their ri re h n t rote te me n o r abortion may also lead to infertility n iss es th t ome together, st fe e m es of the m n hen e me regn nt efore or difficulty conceiving later in life, n mo e st them thro gh the m rri ges to he ortion o e ere m rrie eg n to which bring their own emotional gr e of o fee m no e n o t h t stor reso r es for resent n h te him t s i e strains for a couple. to o e her the o inten e ” m rri ge m e i e in o r gre t i i e et een s o n t Fear of intimacy is another Significant growth can also result o re , ont t o r io es n struggle that may arise. Some n o n t et go of the nger from working through the pain f mi ife of e o n reso r es n resentment, e se if i , women and men have kept past for ost ortion he ing, isit abortion experiences a secret and together as a couple. For example, it o e i e s ing the ortion the spouse that was not involved o e fter ortion org e rinte live in the fear of being exposed. from es e t Life rogr m, o s o , n it sn t r They never really open themselves in their husband’s or wife’s past right , nite St tes Confer ie , s h rt, n he o st completely to intimacy for fear of abortion may choose to “spiritu- go on i e nothing h ene ” being rejected if their spouse ever ally adopt” their spouse’s aborted en e of C tho i isho s, W shing For cases in which one spouse is discovered their secret. Others child. This spiritual adoption can ton, C rights reser e Support Rachel’s Vineyard through Wish List Depression, guilt, inability to A Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat of- by viewing Rachel’s Vineyard’s reg- P.O. Box 213, Enola, Pa., 17025- forgive oneself, grief, sadness, fers a place to renew, build and istry at ama on.com. The ministry 0213. anger, rage, emotional numb- redeem hearts broken by abor- is in need of small kitchen bath For information on Rachel’s ness, promiscuity, eating dis- tion. The confidential weekend items found at Ama on baby regis- Vineyard Retreats and Undefeat- orders, low self-esteem, drug retreats are held several times a try search “Rachel’s Vineyard . ed Courage, call 717-788-4959 and alcohol abuse, nightmares, year in English and Spanish at Monetary donations are also or email undefeatedcourage@ suicidal urges, difficulty with re- the Undefeated Courage House in accepted, by adding “Undefeated gmail.com. All calls are confiden- lationships, anxiety and panic at- Columbia, Lancaster County. Courage” to an Ama on Smile ac- tial. The next retreat in English tacks are just a few of the symp- Those who wish to support the count, to www.undefeatedcourage. is Dec. -8 the next retreat in toms of post-abortion trauma. ministry can assist with supplies, org, or to Undefeated Courage at Spanish is Nov. 8-10. DIOCESAN NEWS October 25, 2019 • The Catholic WITNESS -
make-your-own gingerbread house! Dinner St. Teresa of Calcutta Catholic School, on Nov. 1 and breakfast and lunch on Nov. annual Conewago Christmas craft bazaar, Parish Bazaars 2 prepared by Knights of Columbus Council Nov. 16 from 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at the ( isting of rish rs is so on ine t h g io ese org #8891. For information, call the parish of- Conewago Campus in Hanover. Vendors with S mit rish r nno n ements i e m i to ce at 717-235-2156. handcrafted items, homemade baked goods, omm ni tions h g io ese org games of chance, silent auction, classroom St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Hanover, raf e baskets, breakfast, lunch and much The Columbiettes, St. Joseph’s Auxiliary holiday gifts, baked goods, children’s ac- Christmas bazaar on Nov. 2 from 8 a.m.- more. Santa visits from 9 a.m.-1p.m. All pro- 12788 in Mechanicsburg, seventh annual tivities. Café offering breakfast and lunch 1 p.m. Vendors, raf e, kitchen items, bake ceeds bene t the students of St. Teresa of Christmas Fest on Nov. 23 at the St. Joseph items. Door prizes, multi-item raf e and sale. Sponsored by St. Vincent’s Knights of Calcutta Catholic School. Parish Life & Education Center, Mechanics- more. Free admission. Call 717-309-2485; Columbus Council 14865. The CCW of St. Andrew the Apostle Church burg, from 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Breakfast and www.sfxpccw.org. Assumption BVM Parish in Lebanon, lunch available for purchase. 60 craft ven- in Waynesboro, eighth annual Christmas ba- The CCW of Corpus Christi Parish in Christmas bazaar on Nov. 2 from 8 a.m.-2 zaar and craft show, Nov. 2 from 8:30 a.m.- dors, a silent auction, Scholastic book sale, p.m. in the parish center. Handmade items raf e, bake sale, musical performances, Chambersburg, Holiday Craft Fair, Nov. 2 3:30 p.m. in the school. More than 25 ven- from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. at the parish center. 26 and craft items, pulled pork BBQ, soups, dors selling handmade crafts: home decor, children’s games and a visit from St. Nicho- cakes, cookies, candy, assorted gift bas- las. vendors with a variety of unique hand-sewn paintings and notecards, hand-sewn items, items, crafts, jewelry, home decor, baked kets, raf e gift items. kitchen gifts, jewelry, Christmas items, raf es The CCW of St. Joan of Arc Parish in Her- goods and much more. Breakfast sand- St. Anthony of Padua Parish in Lancast- and bake sale! Lunch of homemade soup shey, Christmas bazaar on Nov. 9 from 8 wiches, a warm lunch and dessert from 8 er, 34th annual Christmas bazaar, Nov. 9 and breadsticks served from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. a.m.-2 p.m. in the school cafeteria. Grand- a.m.-2 p.m. For more information, contact from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. and Nov. 10 from 9:30 ma’s Attic treasures, ea market, baked Kathy at 717-352-7354. The CCW of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish a.m.-noon in the Resurrection Catholic in Cornwall, inaugural Christmas bazaar, Nov. goods, jewelry, crafts, Christmas decora- School cafeteria. Wreath and garden, trim- tions, toys and more! Breakfast and lunch The CCW of Our Lady Help of Christians 23 from 8 am.-3 p.m. in the parish center. , Christmas bazaar on Nov. a-tree, crafts, religious items, gift shop, chil- available. Parish in Lykens Handmade crafts, candles, wreaths, cen- 9 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the social hall. dren’s crafts, gift baskets and jewelry table. terpieces, Christmas decorations and orna- The Annunciation Women of Mercy and Food, Chinese auction, raf es, jewelry and Raf e items valued at a minimum $50 ments, white elephant, raf es, homemade Joy, Christmas bazaar on Nov. 2 from 8 a.m.- craft stands, baked goods. include a television, Fitbit, garden wagon Christmas cookies. A kids’ craft project will be 1 p.m. in the St. Teresa of Calcutta school and bench, mani-pedi, Sister Irenita wa- available while you shop. hall in McSherrystown. Fall baskets, raf es, St. John the Baptist Parish in New Free- tercolor, and gift cards to local restaurants decorated wreaths and trees, outdoor wood dom, Christmas bazaar on Nov. 1 from 5-8 and businesses. Food available throughout, Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Ab- pieces, craft creations, children’s and adult p.m., Nov. 2 from 8 a.m.-4 p.m., and Nov. 3 including authentic Vietnamese eggrolls, bottstown, Christmas bazaar on Nov. 16 baskets, lled tubs with gift cards, baked from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. in the social hall. Raf e soup and sandwiches. Contact Livia Riley from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Fun, food and yummy goods and 50/50. Breakfast and lunch and silent auction items (Nov. 1 and 2), gift at 717-299-6617 for information. treats. Start/ nish your Christmas shopping. served with two soups. baskets, Christmas crafts, vintage items, art Breakfast and lunch provided by the Knights gallery, delicious homemade baked goods, The CCW of St. Paul the Apostle Par- of Columbus. St. Francis Xavier Gift Fair & Holiday men’s warehouse, garden and religious ish in Annville, holiday bazaar on Nov. 16 Bazaar in Gettysburg, Nov. 9 from 8 a.m.- tables, and much more! Kids’ activities are from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. in the parish social hall. Divine Redeemer Parish in Mount Carmel, 2:30 p.m. at Xavier Center. Local vendors on Nov. 2 and include a visit with Santa Handmade crafted items, homemade can- Holiday Faire on Nov. 8 from 6-8 p.m. and and artisans. Fair trade items, collectibles, (10 a.m.-2 p.m.), Secret Santa Shop, and dies, cookies, pies, cakes and more. Potato Nov. 9 from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. in Divine Mercy lling for holiday dinners. Café items for Hall. Food available Saturday only: potato breakfast and lunch include donuts, bagels, cakes, haluski, sausage, porkette, pierogis, soup, sandwiches and more. bake sale. Holiday themed baskets/items. A Mass Celebrating the Gifts of St. Columba Parish in Bloomsburg’s St. Mary’s Women’s Societies’ annual Winterfest, Nov. 23 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Christmas bazaar, Nov. 9 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. the corner of 3rd and Iron Streets. Craft ven- and Nov. 10 from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. in the parish People with Disabilities dors, wood products, activities for children, hall at Immaculate Conception BVM Parish homemade baked goods, lunch items to in York. Handmade crafts, homemade baked eat in or take out, dollar tree, holiday music goods and candy, attic treasures, raf es, and performances, and gift basket raf e of Santa’s Shop, sandwiches & soup from Mrs. crafts, jewelry and more. Bene ts St. Co- Claus’ Kitchen, and a gingerbread house lumba School. workshop for children. For more information, call the parish of ce at 717-846-7629. Holy Name of Jesus Parish in Harris- burg, craft show on Nov. 2 from 8:30 a.m.- St. Cecilia Parish in Lebanon, Christmas 2 p.m. in the gymnasium. Craft vendors, bazaar, Nov. 23 from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. in the raf e gift baskets, one-stop shopping with hall on State Drive. Walnut, poppy seed and background Christmas music. Café offer- apricot strudel, sugar cookies, gift baskets, ing breakfast sandwiches and hot lunch chance booth, candy, jewelry, handbag bou- food. Tables for crafters and vendors are tique, ea market, baked goods, Christmas still available. Contact Mary Lou at 717- booth. Light lunch will also be available. 541-5273.
ece e The Catholic WITNESSWITNESS The Newspaper of the Diocese of Harrisburg O Through a free e-mail service, you can receive a direct link to each edition as it is published. Sign up for the e-mail service by logging on to the Diocesan website at www.hbgdiocese.org. Follow the News Events tab to The Catholic Witness page and click on “Sign Up for Our E-mail.” Registration with the e-mail service will not automatically cancel your mailed subscription. If you prefer to receive the online version instead of a copy in the mail, e-mail your name and mailing address to [email protected]. 2 - The Catholic WITNESS • October 25, 2019 EA ES ON E AI
So I started praying to have that see people more often and grow deep faith in the Eucharist like with them. It’s a blessing. The Called those people. Over time with that A series of profiles on clergy and religious prayer, the faith brewed in me. So it was ama ing that I got to They should do what I should go to the Mount for seminary and F R have done much earlier. Get a be a part of those same youth hold of the Vocations Director. Littlestown, Pa. retreats helping students at that Get in conversation with people event also guided me on the road and let them know it’s something E Littlestown High to priesthood. School, Penn State University, you’re interested in. I kept silent Mount St. Mary’s Seminary in Em- for so long. And yes, I am glad mitsburg, Md. that I have my physics degree. I I love the priesthood. I had a think it’s a part of Providence that Parochial Vicar at weekend recently where I cel- I did wait until the end of college St. oan of Arc Parish in Hershey ebrated four different sacraments to enter. But it’s good to talk to marriage, baptism, confession somebody about it and pray about and Mass. The reason I became it. The Eucharist is a wonderful a priest in the first place was, I al- gift, the Rosary is a wonderful ways said, “Lord, let me celebrate gift. Mary is a great guardian for went into physics. Near the end of the Mass once in my lifetime be- priests, for people discerning. my studies, I was looking at what I fore I die.” It’s the only thing I ever The Liturgy of the Hours also I was born in Pittsburgh and my was going to do after I graduated. truly wanted. I’ve been able to do helped me. When I first got in con- dad is a salesman so we went to If I was going to continue in the it every day for over a year now. tact with Father LaVoie, he gave different areas. We lived in Buf- physics field, I wanted to become I love this parish. It’s a wonderful me something called The Shorter falo for awhile, then moved to a professor. When I looked at what place to be. There are holy people Christian Prayer, which is a sum- Littlestown, which is a small town it would take to become a profes- here, and I’ve enjoyed getting to mation of what priests pray every next to Gettysburg. That’s where I sor, it was six years for a Ph.D., know them. This is the first time day. ust praying that twice a day mainly grew up. and then post-doctoral work, and I’ve been somewhere for an ex- was a really big help in my discern- St. Aloysius was my home parish, then maybe you become a profes- tended period of time, so I get to ment. and was a wonderful parish grow- sor in ten years. I was thinking, ing up. It’s really where I heard my “If I do all that, and spend ten first call to the priesthood. It’s a years just getting to the profession Join the Council of Catholic small farming parish, with families I’d like to be in, would I want to who are close together. My pas- immediately leave that job I just tor growing up, Father Sterner, got, when I know I’m called to the Women in Sharing ‘Boxes of Joy’ was kind of the grandfather of priesthood ” such as toothbrushes, pencils, the town and its people. He just That’s when I called the Voca- crayons, t-shirts, hard candy retired three years ago, but had tions Director and started looking and toys. No li uids or toy guns, been there for 2 years. Every- at whether I was too young to start please. Include a check for 9 body knew him and loved him. He the process. When I talked to him, made payable to “Cross Catho- had a great love for the Mass, and I found out that people actually lic Outreach” to cover the cost you could always see how much started entering seminary out of of shipping and to support the he really cared for each part, and high school. So in my last year of priests and nuns ministering to how he prayed through each part college, I was looking at colleges the children. Place a rubber band of the Mass. I think that re ected to apply to continue studies while around the box to secure it. in all the people he cared for. also discerning whether I should Boxes will be collected at the That’s where I heard the call, enter seminary. Diocesan Center in Harrisburg on seeing him celebrate the Mass, Father LaVoie, the Vocations Nov. 11 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. They and being drawn into the Mass Director at the time, said to me, “If will be delivered to five of the through that. I describe a lot of my you know where you’re going, why poorest countries in the Western The Harrisburg Diocesan Council being able to hear the call through delay ” I completely agreed with Hemisphere where priests, nuns of Catholic Women is participating his love for esus Christ and his it. The priesthood is what I really and lay missionaries will give them in Cross Catholic Outreach’s Box love for his own priesthood. wanted my whole life. to the children and tell them of of oy program this year, and is God’s love and the love of people encouraging others to join them in who sent the gifts. the effort. In high school, I had gone on The Mount was a big part of my Cross Catholic Outreach is a A “Box of oy” is a shoebox filled youth retreats and had already initial discernment in high school 501c3 Catholic relief and devel- with clothing, toys, school sup- heard the call and had a pretty because that’s where we’d go opment ministry that provides plies, and personal care items for good idea that one day I was go- on our youth retreats. We’d go to food, shelter, medical care, water, children in developing countries. ing to be a priest. I didn’t know Mount 2000, and it would have education, self-help programs, The program is a way to demon- what that looked like, what that hour-long Adoration. I remember care for orphans and emergency strate Christ’s compassion to poor meant, how that would turn out. the first time I went there and relief to the poorest of the poor in children in developing countries. Whenever I would talk to a priest, saw Adoration, I was bored, really. Dioceses around the world in the Any family in the Diocese in- they would say, “I had a job for But then I looked around, and I name of Christ. terested in participating should awhile,” so I assumed I needed saw people kneeling for an hour For more information on the select if their box is for a boy or a job before I would be accepted in real, serious prayer, I could tell project, contact Diane Roskos at girl, and their age 2-4, 5-9, 10-14 into seminary. there was love on their face. There [email protected] or Mary and indicate that on the top of the So that’s what I did. I went to was something there. When I saw Ann Wayne at royalroad212@aol. shoebox. Penn State. I was very good at that, I was really intrigued. I had a com or 717- 737- 0 85 or visit Boxes can be filled with items math and I loved the sciences, so I good faith, but it wasn’t that deep. www.crosscatholic.org boxofjoy. CA O IC CO EN A October 25, 2019 • The Catholic WITNESS - 3
I could not help of thinking of this story as I today’s world, this is not real- Silence within continue my re ections on listening. Accord- ity ” I understand where you are ing to Kay Lindahl, author of he S re rt coming from. I gave up listening Listening of Listening1, silence within listening gives us to the radio for Lent and have the ability to access a personal still point. As I not gone back to it because By S s er eralyn Sch , S was reading her re ection, I thought, “What’s I have discovered that the ecial to The Witness a still point ’” According to C Manheim, a added silence gives me a As a child, I was thrilled to wait for the Craniosacral Therapist, “During the still pe- profound perspective of school bus in the morning. It meant I could riod, which may last anywhere from a few sec- God in my every day life. “play” with other students from my school onds to several minutes, all parts of the body You see, I practice what I and interact with those who were both young- become uiescent being at rest uiet still preach inactive or motionless , and then a profound er and older than I. Looking back, I can now 1 relaxation occurs.2 Lindahl, Kay. The S s er eralyn understand that the simple act of waiting for Sch , S the school bus broadened my personal un- So how does silence within listening work Sacred Art of Listening Forty Re ections for Cul- Tho hts o a derstanding of what community is all about, As illustrated in the opening story, we are Catholic an elist because I welcomed everyone into my field of bombarded with sensory overload. Sustained tivating a Spiritual Prac- perception. silence gives us a moment the ability to pro- tice. SkyLight Paths Pub., 2002. Pg. 14 Recently, as I drove to work during the first cess what our senses present to us. Silence 2http craniofascial.com still-point-in- week of school, I was saddened to see this gives us the skill to organi e sensory chaos cranial-rhythm scene Very close to the Diocesan Center, a all around us. group of students wait for their buses. At this How do you find this “still point ” Unplug. Sister er n S hmi t is the Wi e re stop, there are high school, middle school Turn off the radio, iPod, TV, etc. Consciously et or Coor in tor t the io ese of rris and elementary students. As I drove past breathe deeply and re ect, not just react. By rg n the ire tor of orm tion for Wi es them, I noticed that every one of them had doing this, we begin to actually slow down, to in the i on te rogr m n e tor for ear buds in their ears and they were all pay- re ect on what is happening, to listen to our- e rs, she is res onsi e for rofession ing attention to their phones, either standing selves and the wisdom of others as well as to e e o ment rogr ms for e er ge e rner or sitting at the curb in complete silence. be present to the now. In short, it connects to hro gh her resent tions, she h enges They were completely engrossed inwardly to God, who often speaks through silence. her ien es to e the in i i o h s noise coming from their ear buds. I can also hear you say, “Come on, Sister In e them to e.
vately because of her nobility and youth. They 2019 Diocesan confined her to a steam bath in her home to Catechetical Conference Saint Spotlight suffocate her. She did not succumb and was martyred circa 17 and 180. C The legend of her death says that after F being struck three times on the neck with a N sword by an inexperienced executioner who “Making ed in fear, she laid, head half severed, with her face on the oor, and continued pray- Disciples for Jesus ing. She lived for three days and asked the pope to convert her home into a church. Af- and His ter her death, her body was clothed in robes Church” of silk and gold and placed in a coffin in the same position in which she died. Cecilia was Com i e nge rsini buried in the catacombs of St. Callixtus in St. Cecilia was born in the second century Rome. A.D. in Rome. She professed a vow of virgin- In 822, during the restoration of the church Saturday, November 9 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. ity but was forced by her parents to marry of Santa Cecilia in Trastevere reportedly built Diocesan Center, Harrisburg a pagan nobleman named Valerian. When over the site of her house, Pope Paschal Keynote: Dr. Peter J. Murphy it was time for the marriage to be consum- I wanted to transfer her body to the church. Former Director of Evangelization and Catechesis mated, she told Valerian that an angel of the He located her body and interred her in the for the United States Bishops Conference and Lord was watching over her and would pun- church below the altar, along with her hus- Current Director for the Families and ish him if he violated her but she would love band and brother-in-law and the martyr Maxi- Schools of Discipleship Mission Team for the Diocese of Green Bay him if he respected her virginity. He asked to mum, a Roman soldier. During a renovation see the angel and she told him to go to the of the church in 1599, Cardinal Paolo Emilio Principal Celebrant and Homilist: Bishop Ronald Gainer third milestone on the Via Appia Appian Way Sfonsdrati had the remains excavated and and be bapti ed by Pope Urban I. He followed reburied when he reported it to be incorrupt. Holy Sacri ce of the Mass, Keynote Address, Workshop Sessions, Lunch, Closing Prayer. Cecilia’s advice and saw the angel standing Through the centuries, Cecilia’s feast day is beside her, crowning her with a chaplet of usually an occasion for music festivals around Workshop topics include the Mass, the Holy the world. Cecilia symboli es the central role Spirit, Angels and Demons, Apologetics, New roses and lilies. Subse uently, Valerian and Age vs. Authentic Religion, Marian Apparitions, his brother Tiberius were converted by Cecilia, of music in the liturgy. The Sisters of St. Ce- Saints, Scripture, Devotions and more. cilia shear lambs’ wool to make the palliums but were later asked to renounce their religion The conference is sponsored by the by Christian persecutors. They refused and woolen “sash” worn over the shoulders for Diocesan Of ce for Evangelization were beheaded and buried on the Appian new archbishops. The lambs are raised by the and Catechesis. It is open to anyone Way. Cecilia was arrested for the crime of Cistercian Trappist Fathers of the Tre Fontane involved in catechesis or interested burying their bodies and was given the choice Three Fountains Abbey in Rome and are in learning more about the Catholic faith. of sacrificing to the gods or being executed. blessed by the pope every anuary 21 and given to the new archbishops on the Solem- Register online and nd more information, She steadfastly refused to denounce her faith including a full schedule and workshop sessions, and her captors decided to execute her pri- nity of Sts. Peter and Paul, on une 29. at http://www.hbgdiocese.org/cat_conference/. - The Catholic WITNESS • October 25, 2019 A IS AND SC OO NEWS
FUNDRAISERS & EVENTS event is for ages 21+. DIOCESAN NOTEBOOK Catholic men and women volunteers for prison minis- Election Day pork and sauerkraut dinner at Sacred (Submit typed announcements to try team (about three hours monthly), needed to visit Dau- Heart of Jesus Parish in Williamstown, Nov. 5. Includes [email protected], nine days before phin County Prison (Wednesday evenings and Saturday sauerkraut made by the Knights of Columbus, with mashed the issue date. No yers or ads, please. mornings), Camp Hill Prison (Friday and Saturday morn- potatoes, applesauce, dessert and beverage for $10. Call See the bottom of the Notebook section ings) and Keystone Work Release (Sunday afternoons). No Dawn at 717-647-9124 or JoAnn at 717-647-2287. on page 15 for next issue’s deadline.) experience necessary, orientation to be scheduled. Prison Dauphin and Cumberland County Ancient Order of Hi- SPIRITUAL OFFERINGS Christian Growth Group, http://www.pcggprisonministry. bernians’ evening of stories about the Irish contribution org/. Contact Bob Ribic at [email protected] or 717- during the Civil War, by noted area author Scott Mingus, Veterans Day Mass at St. Peter Church in Columbia, Nov. 571-4217. Oct. 30 at the New Cumberland American Legion, Post 11 at 6:30 p.m. Homilist will be Deacon Michael Oles, USA, Ancient Order of Hibernians-Michael Collins Division 143, at 7 p.m. Drinks and food available for purchase by ret. All are welcome to attend. of Cumberland County seeks new members. The AoH is for non-members until 6:30 p.m. Event is free, but registration Charismatic Mass with prayers for healing, Nov. 5 at 7 those of Irish descent interested in Irish culture and engag- is required; contact Jerry McGlynn at 717-525-3103 or p.m. at St. Theresa Church in New Cumberland. Father Sam- ing in social and charitable activities. A potential member [email protected]. uel Dubois, parochial vicar, celebrant. Call Mary Ann at 717- should also be a member of one of the parishes within the The Trinity Athletic Association’s Beef and Beer event, 564-7709. Diocese. Visit aohcumberland.org or contact Mike Powers Nov. 2 at 7 p.m. at Trinity High School in Camp Hill. Only 300 Memorial Mass for Babies Never Born, Oct. 30 at 7 p.m. at [email protected]. tickets available. Sponsorship opportunities are available at St. John the Baptist Church in New Freedom. All moms and Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School in Coal Town- and offer businesses great visibility. For more information dads who have lost babies before they were born, along with ship’s Diamond Celebration Gala, Nov. 2 at 5:30 p.m. at on sponsorships, or to order tickets, e-mail communications family and friends, are welcome. Contact Pattie Evans at 717- Brady Banquet Hall in Ranshaw. Donations needed for gift @thsrocks.us. 235-8833 for information. certi cates, bottles of wine and silent auction items. Live Mary, Gate of Heaven Parish in Myerstown’s holiday auction items valued above $200. Volunteers needed for Caelorum at St. Joan of Arc Church in Hershey, Nov. 6 at pie sale. Apple pie $10; pumpkin pie $9; mince meat pie 7 p.m. Spend the evening with Our Lord in adoration, song, decorating, auction, reservations, sponsorship and market- $12; pumpkin bread $4; pumpkin bread with raisins and meditation and praise, and receive his abundant mercy. A re- ing. Classes and businesses can sponsor a table of eight nuts $5. Order by Nov. 2. Pick up Nov. 23 from 12:30-3:45 ception will be held immediately following in the cafeteria. All for $450. Contact Jacqueline Kerris at [email protected]. p.m. and Nov. 25 from 2-5 p.m. Call Janet Feathers at 717- are welcome, bring a friend. For more information, call 717- pa.us or 570-644-0375. 554-1131 to order. 583-0240. The Bishop McDevitt Crusader Players present The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, Nov. 8 and 9 at 7 p.m., and Taste of the Parish, Christ the King Church in Benton, EDUCATION & ENRICHMENT Nov. 10 at 1 p.m. Reserved tickets (online only) and Nov. 3 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tickets are $10. Enjoy a sam- “WinDowS,” a ministry for widowed, divorced and singles, general admission are $10; senior citizens and students pling of favorite foods created by people of the parish, and invites adult men and women for activities and friendship. are $5. Reserve seats online at www.showtix4u.com/ take a recipe home to try yourself. Gift basket raf es and The group is a ministry of St. Margaret Mary Parish in Har- events/mcdsleepyhollow. Contact Jennifer Delp at jdelp@ lottery board. Tickets available in advance by calling the risburg. Upcoming activities include Thanksgiving dinner and bishopmcdevitt.org with questions. parish of ce at 570-925-6969 or at the door the day of the event. meeting at St. Margaret Mary School on Nov. 4 at 6:15 p.m.; Lebanon Catholic School’s annual Blue & White Leg- dinner meeting at Progress Grill on Dec. 2 at 6:15 p.m.; and acy Gala, Nov. 16 at the Star Barn in Elizabethtown. Tick- Knights of Columbus of St. Ann Byzantine Parish in the Sylvan Chorale Concert Dec. 6 and 7. For information ets and sponsorships information at www.lebanoncatholic Harrisburg, homemade halupki dinner on Nov. 10 from about the ministry and its events, contact Julia Becoski at school.org. Gala will highlight the student experience on 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Eat in or take out. Includes halupki 717-652-3598. Assumption Hill while treating guests to live and silent auc- (cabbage rolls), baked potato, vegetable, roll and beverage. Corpus Christi Parish in Chambersburg hosts “The You’re tions, cocktails and dinner. Cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children (children 5 and under Amazing Experience,” Nov. 8 from 6-8 p.m. Presented by Rizzetta’s Tones perform songs of the Celtic world, Nov. eat free). Enjoy free samples of homemade baked goods, Hard as Nails Ministries, event features preaching, personal 6 at 7:30 p.m. in Old Main Auditorium at Lancaster Catholic jams and jellies made by the Byzantine Carmelite Nuns in testimonies, audience interaction, storytelling, music, videos, High School. Free admission. Donations for the Fine & Per- Sugarloaf, Pa. Orders will be taken, with pick-up on Nov. 24. entertainment and prayer. Free of charge, open to ages 12 forming Arts Department at Lancaster Catholic accepted. Piano Bar Night at Lancaster Catholic High School, and older. Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hard- St. Cecilia Parish in Lebanon’s big Bingo, Oct. 27 at the Nov. 9 from 7:30-10 p.m., featuring alumni “The Lavelles.” as-nails-corpus-christi-parish-community-event-tickets. For parish center on State Drive. Doors and kitchen open at 11 Admission by donation to the LCHS Fine & Performing Arts information, call 1-888-498-2255. a.m. 24 big cash games, 50/50 and a jackpot. Cost is $25. Program. Snacks and drinks served. Must be 21 or older George Weigel, renowned biographer of St. John Paul Bishop McDevitt High School’s Fall Open House, Nov. to attend. RSVP to Tony Brill at [email protected] by Nov. 5. II, to speak at St. John Neumann Church in Lancaster, Nov. 3. Father Josh Weaver, school Chaplain, will celebrate Mass Must have 8-10 to reserve a whole table. 13 following 6:30 p.m. Mass. A friend of Popes Benedict XVI at 10 a.m. in Finestra Hall. At 11:15 a.m., the school will “BIG BIG Jazz Band Dance,” Nov. 16 at Lancaster Cath- and Francis, Weigel will speak on the contemporary Church, begin the General Session followed by tours of the cam- drawing on his new book, “The Irony of Modern Catholic His- olic High School, featuring a full big-band ensemble with pus, displays from all clubs, activities and sports as well as tory - How the Church Rediscovered Itself and Challenged the vocals. Snacks and drinks served. Must be 21 or older to faculty and administration tables. Complimentary lunch. All Modern World to Reform.” Free public event sponsored by the attend. RSVP to Tony Brill at 717-509-0310 or tbrill@lch- are welcome. 717-236-7973 or www.BishopMcDevitt.org. Order of Malta. syes.org. Tables with 8-10 guests can reserve seating. All Lebanon Catholic School’s Fall Open House, Nov. 6 others can choose seating when they arrive for the dance. PILGRIMAGES & RETREATS from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Visit the school, meet faculty and staff, Free event. Donations will be accepted for the Fine & Per- and take a tour. Call 717-273-3731, ext. 329, or visit www. forming Arts Program. Celebrate 100 years since the birth of John Paul II with lebanoncatholicschool.org for more information. Father Tukura Pius Michael, O.P., pastor of St. Pius X Parish, Lancaster Catholic High School presents Little Wom- Selinsgrove, on a 12-day pilgrimage, Aug. 3-14, 2020 visiting Immaculate Conception BVM Parish in Berwick, an- en, Nov. 21-23 at 7:30 p.m. in Old Main Auditorium. Tick- Poland and Prague. Land-only price: $2,950 pp in double nual Polish Pottery Bingo on Nov. 17. Doors open at 12:30 ets available in advance or at the door, $15 for reserved occupancy, rst class hotels accommodations, private motor- p.m., games start at 2 p.m. 20 games, door prizes, raf es seating, $13 adult general admission, $7 student general coach transportation, all breakfasts and eight dinners, and and great food. Price for the 20-game ticket is $20. admission. For advanced tickets, mail payment (checks professional guided sightseeing. Contact Catholic Heritage Holy Spirit Parish in Palmyra, Respect Life Ministry payable to LCHS FPA) to Tony Brill at Lancaster Catholic HS, Tours at 1-800-290-3876 or www.catholicheritagetours.com/ hosts a showing of the motion picture “Unplanned” in Agape 650 Juliette Ave, Lancaster, Pa., 17601. FPPC or Mark Filohoski 570-374-3933. Hall (old church), Oct. 26 at 7 p.m. Admission is free. A free Knights of Columbus of St. Philip the Apostle Parish in “LEAD: The Four Marks of Fatherly Greatness Live Re- will offering will be taken to bene t Lourdeshouse Maternity Millersville, troy train show on Nov. 16 from 9 a.m.-noon. treat,” Nov. 15 from 7-8:30 p.m. and Nov. 16 from 7 a.m.- Home in Harrisburg. Move is rated R; anyone under 17 must Only show of the year. Vendors selling toy trains and train 6 p.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Mechanicsburg. be accompanied by an adult. related items. Admission fee. For information or interest in Retreat is designed to help men mine the riches of manhood, Our Mother of Perpetual Help School in Ephrata, Trea- knowing more about toy trains, call Charlie Sauer at 717- which culminates in spiritual fatherhood. Retreat closes with sure Island Auction, Nov. 2. Preview of auction items at 872-8481. Vigil Mass at 5 p.m.; families of men on the retreat are invited 6 p.m., auction at 7 p.m. Refreshments and heavy hors Knights of Columbus and Columbiettes of St. Eliza- to the Mass. Cost of $25 includes a light breakfast, beverages d’oeuvres throughout the evening. Tickets are $20, avail- beth Ann Seton Parish in Mechanicsburg, all-you-can-eat and lunch on Saturday. Register at http://links.steas.net/ able at the door or in advance by calling the school at 717- pancake breakfast in the parish hall, Nov. 3 from 8:15-11 LeadRetreatRegistration. For info, e-mail [email protected]. 738-2414. Must be 21 or older to attend. a.m. Pancakes, scrambled eggs, potato casserole, sausage, Lancaster Theology on Tap meets Nov. 12 at The Impe- York Catholic’s Athletic Booster Club, Night at the coffee, tea, orange juice. Cost is $7 for ages 12 and up; $3 rial Restaurant at the Holiday Inn on Chestnut Street in Races, Nov. 9. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., race post time is for ages 5-11; 4 and under free. Proceeds bene t seminar- Lancaster. Father John Kuchinski speaks on “The Beati- 6:15 p.m. Includes eight simulcast horse races, silent auc- ians and charities supported by the organizations. tudes: Your Guide for Moral Action.” Happy half hour begins tion, raf es, rip tickets, and all-you-can-eat food and bever- at 7 p.m., speaker begins at 7:30 p.m., followed by Q&A. ages with catering by Mission BBQ for $25. Tickets on sale N All young adults welcome to attend. No RSVP required. through Nov. 1 at www.yorkcatholic.org. Dress is casual. This A IS NEWS October 25, 2019 • The Catholic WITNESS -
St. Margaret Mary: New Cumberland Steelton OBITUARIES Gertrude “Trudy” Fry St. eresa: Prince of Peace: Ann Headen Nancy Donatucci Marcella (Vance) Crist e names of the following deceased persons have been Lynn “Rock” Rothrock Joseph Kent Ann (Besic) Segina submitted by their parishes. Please remember in your Lucille Russo Gerry Mattera prayers the happy repose of these recently departed souls Josephine Salvetti Sunbury and the consolation of their loved ones. Quarryville St. Monica: Lancaster St. Catherine of Siena: Andrew F. Curry Annville Gettysburg Assumption BVM: Kenneth Rose Kathryn Keenan St. Paul the Apostle: St. Francis Xavier: Rohrerstown York Anthony Dooley Jerome Brady Littlestown St. Leo the Great: St. Patrick: Marion Ortwein José Rodriguez Jerome Free John Stonesifer Patricia Poloney St. Aloysius: Ann Marie Garman Dr. Andrew Stephen “Steve” Hanover Donald Weaver Peyton, Jr. St. Rose of Lima: Bloomsburg St. Vincent de Paul: Charles omas Riley Norman Futer St. Columba: Kenneth Brandt Mechanicsburg Michael Fago Wayne Margelot St. Elizabeth Ann Seton: Florence Myers Mary Hagan D C Camp Hill Please pray for the following clergy who died in October Harrisburg Middletown during the past 25 years: Good Shepherd: Seven Sorrows BVM: Anthony Sgrignoli Cathedral Parish of St. Patrick: Vincenzo Fazzolari Richard Costik, Jr. Father Walter Halaburda, Father Stephen Sheetz, 2009 William Darrah 2000 Father Kevin Kayda, 2013 Dauphin Dean Drayer Holy Family: Father Edward J. Barrett, Marie LiBrandi Father Andrew J. Fontanella, St. Matthew: Phyllis Reagan 2001 Barbara Kotkiewicz Lillian Russ 2014 JoAnn Shipkowski Father John Suknaic, 2004 St. Catherine Labouré: Msgr. Vincent Topper, 2016 Father Bernard Quinn, 2006 Elizabethtown Patricia Egale Mount Carmel Father Walter Sempko, 2017 St. Peter: Joseph Erbel Divine Redeemer: Deacon Edwin Fitzpatrick, Father Paul eisz, 2017 Jean Stivala Rose Swinehart Helen A. Hirsch 2008 Beverly Weiss Maryann Reitzi Verne Shierant
COURTESY OF COUNCIL 10502 Recently members of Knights of Columbus Council 10502 from Holy Spirit Parish in Palmyra donated 1,000 to Father Saied Loka’s parish and made Father Saied a member of the Council. Father Saied pictured fourth from left in the front row was visiting with Father Anthony Dill, pastor of Holy Spirit pictured third from left in the front row . Father Saied is pastor of the Cathedral of Christ the King in El Minia, Egypt.
St. Catherine Labouré Knights of Columbus Council N 4 12811 in Harrisburg, indoor ea market on Nov. 9 from 8 a.m.-noon at the parish’s Murray Hall. Good Shepherd Parish in Camp Hill, Bingo Bash, Nov. Artist-in-Residence Day with poet Joseph Ross at Lan- 8 in the parish hall. Reserve your seat at https://gsschpa. caster Catholic High School, Nov. 7 in four sessions through- wufoo.com/forms/mz3jur00l3hqnk/ or purchase at the out the day: 8:30-9:15 a.m., 10-10:45 a.m., 12:30-1:15 parish of ce. Cost is $25 in advance. If seating is available, p.m., and 2-2:45 p.m. All are welcome. Contact Dana Kin- cost is $30 at the door. Admission includes a sheet of nine sey at [email protected] COURTESY OF COUNCIL 12811 bingo cards (20 games). Doors open at 6 p.m.; eyes down at St. Lawrence Chapel will be featured in a church and St. Catherine Labour Knights of Columbus Council 7 p.m. For info, call the parish of ce at 717-761-1167. Cash organ tour on Nov. 16 hosted by the Historic Harrisburg As- 12811 was awarded the Columbian Award for the only/adult only event. Blackout is 50/below with a chance to sociation and the Harrisburg Chapter American Guild of Or- 2018-2019 fraternal year on Oct. 10. The award win $500. Light concessions and raf e tickets will be sold at ganists. St. Lawrence Chapel will be featured at 10:20 a.m. recogni es excellence in the council’s programming the event. and charitable outreach. Pictured is State Deputy during the tour, which is from 9:30-11:40 a.m. in seven Mark ago, right, and Grand Knight Charlie Scollon. Delone Catholic High School in McSherrystown, Squire downtown churches. No cost to attend, no registration nec- Picnic on Oct. 27 from 1-4 p.m. Student Council hosts the essary. For information, contact Chris Prestia at 862-266- annual Squire Picnic for students in third, fourth and fth 7333 or [email protected]. a o Calen a s grades. Games, hamburgers, hot dogs, and prizes. Students from all schools (public and private) are welcome to attend. JOB OPENINGS N O Register at www.delonecatholic.org and complete the Squire Want to share an announcement for the Picnic sign-up form. Lancaster Catholic High School seeks part-time caf- eteria worker for the current year, Monday-Friday from 9 Notebook page The deadline for submissions The Silence of Mary Home’s 13th annual gala, “The a.m.-1:15 p.m.Contact Misty Pitrovich at 717-509-0306. for the November 8 edition is Greatest of These is Love,” Nov. 16 at 5:30 p.m. at The Lodge O 4 at Liberty Forge in Mechanicsburg. The home is a Christian Lifeline of Berks County, Inc. (www.lifelineofberks. Submit your written announcement via e-mail family home for abandoned or neglected people of all ages in org), a pro-life pregnancy resource center in Reading, Pa., to [email protected]. Limit 70 words. the Allison Hill section of Harrisburg. Gala tickets are $95. Call seeks a registered nurse to provide services and educa- No ads, posters or PDFs, please. the of ce at 717-737-4107 (Mon.-Fri. from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.) tion to women facing an unplanned pregnancy. Position is A link to the submission deadlines for all or e-mail [email protected]. To learn more part-time or 12-16 hours Visit https://lifelineofberks.org/ editions in 2019 is posted on The Catholic about the Silence of Mary, visit www.thesilenceofmary.org. make-a-difference/join-our-team/. Witness page at www.hbgdiocese.org. 6 - The Catholic WITNESS • October 25, 2019 S O S Lancaster Catholic Goes Three Love to Win at District 3 Girls’ Tennis
COURTESY OF LANCASTER CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL Riley Smith, who won the singles’ gold medal in District 3 Class 2A, is pictured in competition earlier this season.
Lancaster Catholic’s girls’ tennis team swept the District 3 Class 2A tournament, cap- turing gold in team, doubles and singles play. Pennsboro to capture the Class 2A Angelle San ose beat Wyomissing gold medal. In the finals’ first set, -4, -3 to capture the third gold By hr s He sey ing Kennard Dale in their semi- Smith won 7- , capturing the set’s medal of the week for the Crusad- The Catholic Witness final and then denied Hamburg tense tiebreaker 7-3 . Smith eas- ers. For the first time in the any chance at two stunning up- ily beat Lewis, -2, in the second The PIAA state tournament will school’s illustrious sports history, sets. Lancaster Catholic soundly set to win the gold medal. Lewis be played at the Hershey Rac uet the Crusaders of Lancaster Catho- had won the Mid-Penn Conference beat the Hawks, 3-0, behind the club with the team tournament lic girls’ tennis team swept all play of their number one singles’ title. Smith also cruised in her being played the last weekend three competitions at the District player, Riley Smith, and number uest to win the Lancaster-Leba- 3 championships. two, Anna Millen, who both lost non League championship in late of October and the singles’ and Success in Class 2A girls’ only two games in their matches September. doubles’ championships held the tennis usually means beating the against Hamburg. The Crusaders In the doubles’ District 3 first weekend in November, where Spartans of Wyomissing, who have move on to the PIAA state team championship on Oct. 19, the the Crusaders will be a high seed won 15 of the last 21 District 3 tournament with a record of 1 -2. double’s team of Anna Millen and in every bracket. team titles. So when the Spartans In the singles’ tournament were upset by Hamburg in the played a week earlier in Hershey, semifinals at Hershey Rac uet Lancaster Catholic’s Riley Smith Club on Oct. 17, the Crusaders edged the tournament’s num- sei ed the day by easily dispatch- ber one seed, Ava Lewis, of East
ROBERT . CHADDERDON, ELBE PHOTOGRAPHY On the volleyball court, the Fighting Irish of York Catholic have had a terrific regular season and enter girls’ District 3 Class 2A with a 1 -1 record. Remarkably, the team has dropped only four sets all year, compiling a 57-4 mark. Led by senior ROBERT . CHADDERDON, ELBE PHOTOGRAPHY libero ulia Yanick, who’s dug out 120 balls this season, the Fighting Irish will have Playoff soccer is heats up in late October as the weather chills considerably, and to beat Delone Catholic and Trinity, who have also had great league play seasons. the York Catholic boys have had a great season playing on their new turf field. With Delone has won 13 District 3 championships, which stands as the most of any a 15-3 record, the Fighting Irish enter the District 3 Class 1A tournament as a two- District 3 school. The Fighting Irish have beaten the S uirettes twice in the York seed behind Halifax. Senior Pasen Maynard leads the team with 1 goals and 4 Area league play this fall. assists. The District 3 championship game is at Hersheypark Stadium on Oct. 30.