NOVEMBER 9, 2012 VOLUME 48, NUMBER 21

INSIDE: Page 6: The road to Vatican II Pages 7-10: Church teaching on cremation, funerals and the resurrection of the body Pages 12 and 13: High school soccer, volleyball, tennis and cross country Page 16: Bishop visits Lancaster Catholic Parishioners Rejoice in Dedication of Rebuilt Our Lady of Refuge Church

By Jen Reed The Catholic Witness On Sept. 11, 2011, Karen Gipe watched in horror as Our Lady of Ref- uge Church in Doylesburg burned in a destructive fire, leaving only its brick structure behind. Awakened by the terrible news of the fire in the middle of the night, Mrs. Gipe had rushed the two miles from her house to the beloved historic church. She arrived in time to watch the roof collapse. More than 13 months later, on Oct. 28, Mrs. Gipe again stood with tears in her eyes as she gazed upon Our Lady of Refuge Church. It’s newly rebuilt now, and Bishop Joseph P. McFadden was there to dedi- cate it that day. “Praise God! Thanks be to God!” Mrs. Gipe exclaimed as parishioners made their way out of the church fol- lowing the Mass of Dedication. “We were able to rebuild, and we can cel- ebrate today!” For parishioners, the past year had been a long one, filled with grief over the loss, uncertainty about whether the church – a mission of Corpus Christi CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS Parish in Chambersburg – would be Thirteen months after a devastating fire at Our Lady of Refuge Church in Doylesburg, Father James O’Brien opens the doors to the rebuilt church Oct. 28 as Bishop Joseph P. McFadden looks on during the Rite of Dedication. Father O’Brien is More OUR LADY OF REFUGE, page 2 pastor of Corpus Christi Parish in Chambersburg, of which Our Lady Refuge is a mission. After Sandy, Parishes Will Try to Go Forward Step by Step

By Antonina Zielinska 30 for people who needed shel- Catholic News Service ter, and the chapel was open for adoration of the Blessed Sacra- After Hurricane Sandy swept ment. through the East Coast, leaving Father Kubrak said he also untold destruction behind, clean- was able to console people with ing efforts were under way at St. the sacrament of reconciliation. Rose of Lima Church in Rocka- A day after Hurricane Sandy way Beach, N.Y. ravaged the Brooklyn Diocese “Step by step, we will try to go with floods, fire and utility out- forward,” said Father Wladyslaw ages, Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio Kubrak, parochial vicar, as he visited the most affected parish- shoveled leaves and branches off es to gain a better understanding the church driveway. of the state of the diocese and to Although the church sustained pray with his people. serious water damage and had “It’s hard to think that this no power, Father Kubrak was kind of destruction could happen not planning on evacuating. in our city,” he said as he rode He planned, however, to leave along the Rockaway Peninsula. Rockaway Peninsula to recharge The bishop traveled from his electrical batteries and to church to church and witnessed bring back fresh food. the devastating effects the He told The Tablet, newspaper ocean’s waters had on people’s of the Brooklyn Diocese, that lives, their homes and church he wanted to stay to continue to buildings. CNS/MARK C. OLSEN, U.S. AIR FORCE HANDOUT VIA REUTERS console the people coming for Aerial views taken during a search and rescue mission by the New Jersey Army National Guard In Breezy Point in the New guidance after they have lost show the damage caused by Hurricane Sandy to the New Jersey coast. Millions of people across York borough of Queens, fires so much. The church, he said, the eastern United States awoke to scenes of destruction wrought by monster storm Sandy, consumed more than 100 homes. stayed opened the night of Oct. which knocked out power to huge swathes of the nation’s most densely populated region. More SANDY, page 15 2 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, NOVEMBER 9, 2012

Faith and Life

CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS Fallen leaves and the glow of church lights cast a warm hue over the grounds of Our Lady of Refuge Church Oct. 28 before parishioners arrive for its dedication. As living stones, they gather for Our Lady of Refuge Mass to listen to the Word of God, to celebrate the goodness of Jesus Christ, Continued from A1 and to be nourished by Christ’s Body rebuilt, and then waiting with antici- and Blood, the bishop said. pation as the reconstruction project “The Lord has chosen to dwell, and moved forward. he will dwell, in this church,” Bishop The strength and faith of the parish McFadden said. “We will reserve the community were among the focuses of Blessed Sacrament in the tabernacle, Bishop McFadden’s homily during the and so it is here in Doylesburg that we dedication Mass. never have to go looking for God. We “In coming into this Church of Our know exactly where we can find him – Lady of Refuge, it’s important to un- right here in this church.” derstand that this building – as nice and Catholicism in Path Valley dates as beautiful as it is – is really not the back to 1737, when Thomas Doyle, a Church. This building, these walls, are Catholic, received 530 acres of land not the Church of Our Lady of Refuge. there. The first Mass was celebrated in You are,” he told parishioners. “The a local home in 1790. A log chapel that Church is made of living stones. The the Doyle family built next to the fami- Church is you and I, gathered together.” More OUR LADY OF REFUGE, page 3

Above: Bishop Joseph P. McFadden greets parishioners on the grounds of Our Lady of Refuge Church following the church’s dedication Oct. 28.

Left: During the Rite of Dedication, Bishop Joseph P. McFadden anoints the altar with Sacred Chrism. NOVEMBER 9, 2012, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 3

Faith and Life

Bishop Joseph P. McFadden anoints the walls of the church with Sacred Chrism as the congregation looks on during the dedication Mass. closed in Pottsville, Pa. And, enclosed Our Lady of Refuge beneath the concrete foundation is the walls of the church with holy water, and anointed the walls and the altar former tabernacle, a cross and other Continued from 2 with Sacred Chrism. items from the previous church. “It was a beautiful Mass!” exclaimed ly cemetery in 1802 eventually became The Mass of Dedication was filled the first church. The second church was 84-year-old Mary Vocke as she exited with rich symbolism. Parishioners the church with her husband Bill. They dedicated in November 1853. gathered outside the church for the start were married at Our Lady of Refuge in The current church is a symbolic of the 8:30 a.m. Mass as the church 1949 and raised two sons there. connection between the old and the keys were handed from the builder – Bracing herself against the chilly new. The brick shell from the second Conewago Enterprises – to the bishop, breezes and light rain that previewed church remains. While floors, walls, who handed them to Father James Hurricane Sandy, Mrs. Vocke smiled roofing, windows, plumbing and elec- O’Brien, pastor of Corpus Christi Par- at she looked up at trical wiring are new, the re-built ish, to open the doors. During the rite, the façade of the church includes pews from a church the bishop sprinkled the people and the church, where she’s been at- tending Mass her entire life. “I’m so happy that the bishop allowed us to rebuild,” she said. “I think this past year drew ev- eryone togeth- er, and we’re very appre- ciative of the community’s help, especially in allowing us to use Having worked on the project from the Community Center all this time for June to October, he came to know Mass.” many parishioners there as they eagerly Parishioners returned to that Com- watched the progress. munity Center after the Mass to cel- “They’ve been so excited about get- ting their church back,” he said. “That’s ebrate with brunch and a social. The why I’m here today. I’m very happy for occasion afforded them an opportunity them.” to reflect on the support of the commu- “Being able to rebuild was such a nity during the past 13 months. wonderful blessing,” said Mrs. Gipe. And as parishioners and clergy re- “Through the year, we kept our faith joiced in the re-building and dedica- alive. Our prayers went up to God. tion of Our Lady of Refuge Church, He blessed us, and we were able to re- Above: In a standing-room-only congregation, Brianne and Darren Gipe attend project construction supervisor Dave build.” Mass with their son, Kasen, who represents the fifth generation of both sides of Greenholt of Conewago Enterprises “It was very uplifting to watch ev- his family. In August 2011, Kasen was the last baby baptized at the previous Our shared in their happiness. eryone process into the new church to- Lady of Refuge Church, which was devastated by fire a month later. “For me, the best part of working on day,” she said. “It’s been a long year, Above, Right: Deacon Richard Ramsey lights a candle on the altar as Our Lady of this project is turning the church over but we’ve really come together in this Refuge Church becomes lit during the Rite of Dedication. to the people,” he said. time.” 4 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, NOVEMBER 9, 2012

Catholic Commentary Talking Americans Down Human Dignity from the Assisted-Suicide Ledge By Sister Geralyn Schmidt, SCC Special to The Witness By Father Tadeusz Pacholczyk Special to The Witness Several weeks ago, as I was doing research for one of the articles for The Wit- ness, I came across a website that had an incredible story of amazing young man Several states are considering legislative measures to let physicians prescribe (but not ad- named Nick Vujicic. He was born without arms and legs. His website (http:// minister) a lethal dose of a toxic drug to their patients, thereby assisting their patients to com- www.lifewithoutlimbs.org) and his YouTube channel explain that as a child and mit suicide. This is known as physician-assisted suicide. Advocates of this practice assure us that this can be a good choice for someone who is dying, or who wants to die. a teen, he often wondered about the purpose behind his life. By the time Nick If physician-assisted suicide really represents a “good choice,” we need to ask: why should was 19, however, he realized that his journey to understand why God made him only physicians be able to participate? Why should only physicians be allowed to undermine the way he was had a purpose. His story could encour- public trust of their profession through these kinds of death-dealing age other people, bringing them hope. He now travels activities? all throughout the world as a motivational speaker, talk- Why not include police, for example? If a sick person express- es a wish to die, the police could be ing about the “purpose in each of notified, and an officer would arrive the struggles we each encounter in bearing a suitable firearm. He would our lives, and that our attitude to- Thoughts from load it with bullets, cock the gun, Father wards those struggles, along with a Catholic and place it on the bedside stand of our faith and trust in the Lord, can the sick patient. After giving instruc- Tadeusz Evangelist tion on the best way to angle the bar- be the keys to overcoming the chal- Sister Geralyn rel, the officer would depart, and the Pacholczyk lenges we face.” Schmidt, SCC patient could then pick the device up As I read about him and tears and shoot himself — “police-assisted filled my eyes as I viewed his video suicide.” clips, I could not help but reflect on the amazing strength Besides physician-assisted suicide and police-assisted suicide, “military-assisted suicide” could be offered as well. Members of the armed forces would bring of the human spirit and the beauty of the human heart as in a standard-issue hand grenade upon request, explaining to the sick patient how to remove it glorifies God. The intrinsic worth of the human person the pin properly and how to place the device so as to achieve the most rapid, painless and is that we are “created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:26-27), have destructive death. by [our] very existence an inherent value, worth, and distinction. This means that The assisted-suicide paradigm would readily admit of other creative approaches as well — God is present in every person, regardless of his or her race, nation, sex, origin, society could sanction “assisted drowning” where lifeguards could be asked to assist those wishing to die by providing them millstones to take them to the bottom of lakes and oceans. orientation, culture, or economic standing.” (Catholicsocialteaching.org.uk) But if a life-guard helped people drown, would you want him watching your family at the In addition to God’s innate presence, our dignity flows from our unearned rela- beach? tionship with God. It is He who gives us our unique dignity and worth and sets us It is troubling how many individuals fail to grasp the radical absurdity of allowing phy- above all other creatures. (CCC 1700-1709) This sublime station is “realized and sician-assisted suicide. Suicide is no joking matter. Regardless of how it transpires, it is a protected in community with others.” (Sister Katherine Feely, SND, http://www. catastrophe for those who end their own lives, for their loved ones left behind, and for society more broadly. scribd.com/doc/99495926/HumanDignity09) Our community, or society, should Some people may decide that their lives are no longer worth living, but our society has reflect how we, as humans, are God’s awesome works of art. Therefore, any form always recognized that decision to be a tragedy and a mistake; that’s why high bridges have of media that flows out of the human community should increase our understand- signs encouraging suicidal individuals to seek help rather than jump. Suicide hotlines are open ing of this essential truth. 24 hours a day because we seek to prevent as many deaths as we can. We treat as heroes those The Pontifical Council for Social Communications summed up this connec- who walk along bridges or climb tall buildings and try to talk people down. tion in Ethics in Communication, noting that “The human person and the human Commentator Greg Pfundstein stresses how this sound and consistent cultural message is community are the end and measure of the use of the media of social communica- flatly contradicted when we allow physicians to prescribe lethal drugs so people can kill them- selves — it is like replacing the suicide intervention signs on bridges with signs that state, tion; communication should be by persons to person for the integral development “Ask your physician if jumping is right for you.” Simply put, such jumping is never a “good of persons.” (http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/pccs/docu- thing,” and it is only our own foolhardiness that lets us feign it could be, whether physician- ments/rc_pc_pccs_doc_20000530_ethics-communications_en.html) In other assisted or otherwise. words, media should inspire us to love God and each other more. I remember reading a Letter to the Editor in the local paper of a small town many years ago. Eugene Gan in Infinite Bandwidth: Encountering Christ in the Media (Emmaus The woman wrote about the death of her grandparents — well-educated, intelligent and seem- Road, 2010) explains it this way: ingly in control of their faculties — who had tragically committed suicide together by drinking a deadly substance. They were elderly and struggling with various ailments. …. Social media can bring people together and help us create a world that is Her first-hand perspective was unflinching: “It took me years to forgive my grandparents more truly human, a civilization governed by charity. Where media can illuminate after they committed suicide. I was so angry at what they had done to me and my family. I felt the dignity of the human person, social media can help us actualize our dignity. It betrayed. I felt nauseated. At some fundamental level I just couldn’t believe it had really hap- pened, and I couldn’t believe that they didn’t reach out to us for help. I thought the pain would can help us live it and express it. (pg. 57) never go away. The idea that suicide could ever be a good thing is a total crock and a lie. It I can hear the skeptics declare, “Utter poppycock!” To which I respond, “Social leaves behind deep scars and immeasurable pain on the part of family and friends. We don’t media needs to be used wisely.” It can never replace real world face to face rela- have the right to take our own lives because we didn’t give ourselves life.” tionships but rather it should be used to enrich our lives and make our relation- I’m reminded of the words of the Mayor of one of our great cities, who declared: “The crime rate isn’t so bad if you just don’t count the murders.” Assisted suicide, similarly, isn’t ships deeper. It should never blur the true meaning of friendship; “a relationship so bad if you just don’t count the victims: the many broken individuals, broken families, and that entails commitment and a readiness to sacrifice for another.” (Gan, 59) It can broken hearts. never be used to create a persona that is “better” than the real world one. It should A friend of mine in Canada has struggled with multiple sclerosis for many years. He often speaks out against assisted suicide. Recently, he sent me a picture of himself taken with his NEVER be more important than the person with whom we share a meal, live un- smiling grandchildren, one sitting on each arm of his wheelchair. Below the picture he wrote, der the same roof or the colleague working next to us. “If I had opted for assisted suicide back in the mid-1980s when I first developed MS, and it Nick Vijicic states, “We have a calling, a ministry to come alongside the next seemed life as I knew it was over, look what I would have missed. I had no idea that one day I would be head over heels in love with grandchildren! Never give up on life.” generation and encourage them to be passionately inspired, to stand their ground (Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D. earned his doctorate in neuroscience from Yale and did as ambassadors of Christ.” As an ambassador for Christ, we need to pray for the post-doctoral work at Harvard. He is a priest of the diocese of Fall River, MA, and serves as virtue of justice. This virtue establishes a right relationship between people and the Director of Education at The National Catholic Bioethics Center in Philadelphia.) the community around us. We should view media with eyes that analyze how the dignity of women, children, the elderly, the disabled and the human body are The Catholic Witness expressed and if it is in line with the teaching of the Church. Those components OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF HARRISBURG that do not measure up to this “line in the sand” need not to be a part of our lives Most Rev. Joseph P. McFadden or the lives of those entrusted to our care. We should look at our own use of media Publisher and how and why we use it, how much time and energy we spend within it, and how that use models for those entrusted to us. Do we model the best example of Jennifer Reed Telephone Managing Editor its use? 717-657-4804 ext. 201 In short, social media should be a tool that unites us with others heart-to-heart FAX Staff 717-657-7673 Chris Heisey: Photojournalist and in doing that, unites us with God. It should allow us to pray with the psalmist: Email: [email protected] Emily M. Albert: Photojournalist “I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; wonderful Website: www.hbgdiocese.org Susan Huntsberger: are Your works, and my soul knows it very well. (Psalm 139:14) Circulation Coordinator and Administrative Assistant Yearly Subscriptions: (Sister of Christian Charity, Geralyn Schmidt, is the Wide Area Network Co- $8.17 per family, derived from diocesan revenues from the parishes. The Catholic Witness (ISSN 0008-8447, USPS 557 120) is published biweekly ordinator at the Diocese of Harrisburg and a member of the IT Department. An Other subscriptions: $24.00 except Christmas/New Year and July by the Harrisburg Catholic Publishing educator for 28 years, she is responsible for Professional Development Programs Association, 4800 Union Deposit Road, Harrisburg, PA 17111 3710. Periodicals Moving? Send us the address label postage paid at Harrisburg, PA. for every age learner. In addition, Sister blogs for Powerful Learning Practices, a from The Catholic Witness plus your company providing in-service opportunities for educators. Through her presenta- NEW address including zip code +4. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Please allow three weeks for the The Catholic Witness, 4800 Union Deposit Road, Harrisburg, PA 17111-3710. tions, she challenges her audiences to be the individual God has called them to change. be.) NOVEMBER 9, 2012, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 5

Local Church News A Legislative Session in Review By Joelle Shea Special to The Witness Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is estimated by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce that theft by employees costs American com- As the 2011-2012 legislative session comes to a close this month, panies $20 to $40 billion dollars a year. It is not a small problem in our society. The recent theft of some are already looking to next session and hoping for legislative funds in one parish of our Diocese demonstrates that we are not immune to this temptation. Con- victories on issues of importance. But, as the saying goes, to get where sequently we are vigilant of the funds in our care and take very seriously the responsibility to be you’re going, you’ve got to know where you’ve been. So, before we accountable for what is entrusted to us. As a Church we experience acts such as these very rarely. turn the calendar to the new legislative session, let’s look at how is- Despite that, theft, when it is discovered, is disturbing and unsettling. It is not uncommon for a sues of concern to Catholics fared in the 2011-2012 legislative ses- feeling of violation and betrayal to be felt by the victim. These feelings can be especially painful sion. when the theft is done by one who holds an honored position in the Church. On the pro-life front, the legislature passed the Abortion Facili- While these feelings are normal and human, we must always temper our emotions with recogni- ties Control Act, which holds abortion clinics to the same health and tion of human sinfulness and the Lord’s command for forgiveness. In the Diocese of Harrisburg we strive to balance those feelings and our teachings with the need safety standards as other ambulatory surgical facilities. Prior to the for justice, consequently we have zero tolerance toward financial malfeasance. We will and do passage of this legislation, it was clear that the law favored the abor- take legal action against those who are caught stealing. They are immediately reported to the civil tion industry – not women’s health, as is so often claimed. Legisla- authorities and are followed up with prosecution when warranted, as well as request for restitution. tion was passed that gave parents of stillborn children a certificate of That is what is right and just. birth. Previously, parents of stillborn children were given no official I want to firmly assure the faithful that the funds that you have entrusted to your parish and school recognition of their child, and pro-abortion advocates balked at the are as safe as we can make them. We must be good stewards of our resources. We have these estab- request to recognize a child in the womb. The passage of this legisla- lished procedures and controls in place: tion is important for the parents who experience this most painful and • Unannounced financial audits heartbreaking death. Further pro-life success can be found in the state • Parish Financial Councils budget, where line item to fund the state’s alternatives to abortion pro- • Strict accounting guidelines • A series of checks and balances gram, Real Alternatives, contained a 5.2% increase. In a year where • Diocesan reviews of parish and school financial performance many programs were cut or level-funded, the PCC is pleased with this • Each parish and school in the Diocese is required to maintain adequate insurance recognition of the value of life from conception. Because of the present situation in our Diocese and the disturbing national numbers on theft in In the coming session, pro-life advocates will again work for leg- general, it is imperative that we re-double our efforts to protect the funds in our care. Certainly we islation that will remove abortion funding from the yet-to-be-created must ensure that the safeguards we have established are being followed. state health care exchange under the new federal health care law. Pro- My promise to you is that I will do everything in my power to ensure that this is an isolated inci- life advocates also hope to revisit legislation that gives a pregnant dent and that our efforts in this area will be strengthened so that it will not be repeated. woman the option to view her ultrasound when it is preformed to al- To ensure that we continue to act responsibly we are reviewing and updating our current fiscal low for a more fully informed decision. An ultrasound examination is practices and safeguard measures. A critical piece is to ensure the proper functioning of Parish Finance Councils. These local bod- already a standard practice in abortion clinics to determine gestational ies are mandated by Canon Law and serve a vital function at the parish level. These councils are to age or if the pregnancy is ectopic; it should be the mother’s right to meet at least 4 times a year and be staffed by individuals with a financial background or are experi- choose for herself whether to view the ultrasound or not. enced in the business community. In the area of education, the popular Educational Improvement These Finance Councils have the responsibility of not only advising the Pastor on matters pertain- Tax Credit program was expanded from $75 million to $100 million ing to the temporal and financial administration of the Parish but also to help develop, review and and is now helping thousands more low and middle income families. approve the parish budget. Critical functions include the revue on a regular basis of the actual rev- Further, a new program, nicknamed EITC 2.0, will help thousands enues and expenses against budgeted amounts and to also assist the Pastor in ensuring that proper more by creating special scholarships particularly for income eligible procedures are followed for securing and safeguarding all collections and monetary transactions students in the lowest performing 15% of public schools. This new dealing with Parish funds. To ensure the credibility of the process the Parish is required to make certain representations to legislation also allows individual school districts to set up their own the Diocese. This includes submitting the names and professional titles of the members of the par- local voucher program. For more information on this program and ish finance council on an annual basis. The Parish must also submit the dates of all finance council eligibility, visit www.pacatholic.org. meetings, as well as a signed statement by Finance Council Members that they have reviewed and A piece of education-related legislation that was kick-started in this discussed the financial statements and financial condition of the parish at its meetings. The Dean session and will be passed next session would protect religious educa- of the local community is required to meet with the finance council during his official visitation. tional ministries of young children from government interference. Un- The task is challenging for us all, but we must be vigilant to help prevent this kind of damaging der the current law, the state Department of Public Welfare (DPW) has activity in the future. Working with our Diocesan Priests’ Council, our Diocesan Finance Council blank-check authority to regulate all aspects of a church’s pre-school and our Financial Administrative team, I do promise greater accountability and continued careful teaching ministry, including curriculum. This is a classic church-state stewardship of the gifts our people have entrusted to their Church. This is all of our responsibility. I ask for your prayers for all involved in this hurtful matter. struggle, and after a positive vote in the Senate Education Committee and pledges from critical members of leadership in the Senate and the Sincerely, House, the PCC expects this legislation to pass in the next session. In the area of concern for the poor in our state, the legislature re- opened the Homeowners’ Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program (HEMAP). This program has helped thousands of Pennsylvanians Most Reverend Joseph P. McFadden over the years by providing loans to homeowners who were faced Bishop of Harrisburg with foreclosure through no fault of their own. In the first drafts of the state budget, the Human Services Block Grant, which includes state dollars that go to counties to provide a wide range of human services, was slated for a 20% cut. Upon final passage of the budget, the grant was cut by 10%. While the PCC was pleased that the full 20% cut was not made, we continue to advocate for funding for these vital services. Further budget cuts saw the shuttering of General Assistance. This program, which allowed for a $205 stipend to the truly needy who had no other place to turn, was not funded and there is no program to replace it. Advocates for the poor, including PCC, are extremely dis- appointed with the elimination of the General Assistance program and will work cooperatively with the governor and DPW to find alterna- tives to assist those impacted, as the state budget must reflect concern for the most poor and needy in Pennsylvania. November 10 – Diocesan Catechetical Conference Mass, Cardinal Several bills dealing with immigration were introduced this session, but only one of these, the Public Works and Employment Verification Keeler Center, Harrisburg, 9:15 a.m. Act, was passed and signed into law. This act requires contractors and November 10-15 – USCCB Fall Meeting, Baltimore, Md. sub-contractors on public works projects to verify new employee eli- gibility by using the federal E-Verify system. Other proposals ranging November 19 – Catholic Charities Come and See Dinner, from denying public benefits to undocumented immigrants to revok- ing the professional licenses of employers who knowingly employ Cardinal Keeler Center, Harrisburg, 5 p.m. illegal immigrants did not pass. November 20 – Dean’s Meeting, Diocesan Center, Harrisburg, The 2013-2014 legislative session will bring even more activity on issues that are of importance to Catholics in Pennsylvania. And the 10:30 a.m. legislature needs to hear from you – their constituents. Visit www. November 24 – Solemn Profession, Carmel of Jesus, Mary and pacatholic.org to sign up for the Catholic Advocacy Network and be- come an agent of change in Pennsylvania. Imagine the voices of PA’s Joseph, Elysburg, 10 a.m. 3 million Catholics speaking together for the common good! November 25 – Mass and Visit, Dominican Sisters of the (Joelle Shea is the Director of Outreach for the Pennsylvania Cath- olic Conference – the public affairs arm of Pennsylvania’s Catholic Perpetual Rosary, Lancaster, 10 a.m. bishops and the Catholic dioceses of Pennsylvania.) 6 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, NOVEMBER 9, 2012

Faith and Life Historical Perspective on Vatican II By Rev. Joshua R. Brommer, STL 1870, we might think that this was a simple Special to The Witness question for Good Pope John to answer. How would it be possible to continue the project On July 19, 1870 war broke out between of Vatican I almost 100 years after it was sus- France and Prussia. By September of that pended? So much had year, French troops had fled Rome and changed. The Harris- Garibaldi’s troops burg Evening News of took their place. January 2, 1964 reveals Rome was occu- Illuminations the face of the Diocese pied. The conflict of Harrisburg from that brought an abrupt on Vatican II time. The diocese had changed as well since end to the gather- Father Joshua R. the time of Bishop ing of some seven- Shanahan. Bishop hundred bishops Brommer, STL George L. Leech, liv- in the Vatican who ing in his residence were discussing the at 111 State Street, challenges that modern thought and scien- inherited a smaller tific methods brought to Church as well as geographic diocese than Bishop Shanahan had the role of the pope, his relationship to bishops pastored, with 15 counties, yet with 170,000 and the infallibility of his teaching. Having Catholic souls there was a marked population voted on the decree declaring the authority and increase. In 1964, the Diocese of Harrisburg infallibility of papal teaching just days before, prepared to welcome the former vice rector Pope Pius IX promulgated Pastor aeternus the of Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary, Phila- very day before he was to become a prisoner delphia, as new auxiliary bishop: Rev. Joseph of the Vatican due to the start of the war. Inter- Daley. Holy Spirit Hospital, Camp Hill, admit- estingly, Vatican I was never officially ended. ted some 4,000 patients since its dedication in It was simply suspended by Pius IX in October January 1963, and was staffed by thirty sisters. 1870. There was more work to be done and In these years, Trinity High School opened to the bishops anticipated that they would return welcome 400 new students and a staff of re- to take up the final details. But Vatican I was ligious brothers. New additions were added destined never to meet again. to Delone and Lancaster Catholic, while new Only two years before the suspension of churches were dedicated in Shamokin and Dal- Vatican I, Pope Pius IX had formed the new lastown; soon after Greencastle and Blue Ridge Diocese of Harrisburg following the recom- Summit would add their names to that list. The mendation of the American bishops and the 1964 Evening News goes on to report that 225 Cardinals of the Propagation of the Faith. In priests and 1,055 religious sisters, “most of COURTESY OF DIOCESAN ARCHIVES his March 1868 decree, the Pope named eigh- who are engaged in the teaching profession,” Bishop George L. Leech, left, the Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of Harrisburg, con- teen counties that would form this new dio- served throughout the Diocese of Harrisburg. verses with other bishops during the Second Vatican Council. cese as well as appointing a 33-year-old minor A hundred years dramatically changed not only seminary rector from Philadelphia as its first the face of the world at large, but the Diocese of obedience to the Pope. ing how the Church’s bishop. Bishop Jeremiah F. Shanahan was Harrisburg as well. None of them had bishops relate with the consecrated in Philadelphia on July 12, 1868 Bishop Leech carried this face of the Church ever participated in an Supreme Pontiff, the (the day before his 34th birthday) and took in Harrisburg to Rome as he attended the ses- ecumenical council. Bishop of Rome, and up residence in Saint Patrick’s Church, Har- sions of the Second Vatican Council. In the Therefore, when the how they bear the com- risburg. This enterprising new bishop decided time before the Council, he had engaged the schemata were pre- munal responsibility he would not simply live at Saint Patrick’s but people of the diocese to pray and make sacri- sented to the bishops, of teaching the faith of also take up the responsibilities of being its fice for the intention of the Council. Therefore, it was uncertain if they Christ to humanity. In pastor. From Harrisburg, he would eventually it is the Diocese of Harrisburg that would have were simply to ap- a true sense, this was travel to Rome and participate in the First Vati- shaped the answers Bishop Leech gave to the prove them as the will not so much a change can Council. various inquiries issued by the Vatican to the of the Pope or if they but a rediscovery of the However, with the onslaught of the Franco- world bishops seeking direction and sugges- were to honestly cri- relationship that had Prussian war, this pastor and bishop would not tions for the Council. It is the Diocese of Har- tique what was before existed more clearly have the opportunity to complete his participa- risburg that would have influenced his critical them. Many bishops in the early Church. tion in Vatican I. The world scene was chang- and concerned votes for each of the documents came to the Council Laying aside what was ing rather quickly. Bishop Shanahan died in that would come before him. In a concrete way, still uncertain of the sometimes seen as a 1886 at the young age of 52. He served the the people of the Diocese of Harrisburg would role they would play. limited secular vision Diocese of Harrisburg for 18 years. As the be represented in the debates and documents of Yet, the inspired of Church governance, nineteenth century gave way to the twenti- the Second Vatican Council in the person of the voice who called the sense and experi- eth century, who would have foreseen those bishop. the Council into be- ence of collegiality was events which would forever alter the human Those initial documents presented to the ing would also be the born from communion, bishops at Vatican II were compiled by com- voice that assuaged the the mysterious unity of landscape and shape its history: two devastat- missions convened by Vatican departments in anxiety of those bish- the bishops of the world ing world wars, the holocaust of millions of conjunction with the suggestions of theological ops who might have COURTESY OF DIOCESAN ARCHIVES with the successor of innocent Jews, the invention of the atomic experts and the thousands of recommendations hesitated to critique Bishop Jeremiah F. Shanahan, the First Saint Peter. The com- bomb, the martyrdom of more Catholic Chris- made by bishops throughout the world. The what was before them. Bishop of the Diocese of Harrisburg, munion of the bishops tians than all the previous centuries combined? bishops’ recommendations were compiled in Pope John XXIII, af- participated in the First Vatican Council. with one another and Along with these events that mar the face of many large tomes that could be studied and ex- ter being approached with the Pope is a work humanity, great strides in medicine and tech- amined throughout the almost three-year period by some concerned conciliar fathers, made of the Holy Spirit who guides the teaching nology, in social communication and culture of preparation. Great theological minds from it very clear that this was not to be a rubber- authority of the Church to proclaim the Gos- added to the need for the Church to reflect on across the Catholic world were called upon to stamped experience, but a sincere cooperation pel clearly and boldly in every age. This is the how she was to proclaim the Gospel of Christ lend their expertise in formulating the blueprint of the Church’s bishops with the movement of oneness of “mind and heart” that guided the in the contemporary scene. documents from which the Council fathers the Holy Spirit. A true Council in the Church is Church in the Acts of the Apostles and the one- This question preoccupied Pope John XXIII would fashion their teaching. From all of this not a collective approval of statements prepared ness of “mind and heart” that guides the bish- when he prepared for Vatican II. After some work, seven “schemata” were presented to the by either the pope or Vatican offices. Instead, ops of the world to teach the faith in union with reflection, he decided that he would not re- bishops during the summer of 1962 for their a Council is a supreme expression of the col- the Pope to this day. convene the suspended Vatican I (which was discussion on topics including the sources of legiality of the Church’s bishops working with As we explore the sixteen documents of the an option). Pope Pius XII had also flirted with revelation, the deposit of faith, the moral order, one another and in communion with the pope to Second Vatican Council, it is helpful to know the idea of reconvening Vatican I. He went so the liturgy, family, social communications, and articulate the perennial teaching of the Church. the context out of which these teachings devel- far as to inquire among the world’s bishops of Church unity. Every word would be scrutinized The doctrine of episcopal collegiality, which oped. Far from demystifying the teaching, an its need and what might be discussed. Though, and discussed, even to the point of discarding would be defined clearly in the 1964 Constitu- awareness of the humanity that shaped these eventually, he would lay aside this idea leav- entire portions of the work. In some instances, tion on the Church, Lumen Gentium, would first documents make them all the more relevant as ing the question open for one of his successors. entire documents prepared by the commissions be experienced by the bishops who, together, they show forth the way the Gospel of Christ Pope John XXIII answered quickly: there is, in- were set aside. grappled to proclaim effectively the Gospel of continues to take flesh in our own time and re- deed, a need for a new Council, so he officially One of the struggles at the start of the Council Christ in an increasingly complicated world. closed Vatican I just before he convened Vati- sponds to our own needs and aspirations. As the would develop into one of the central teachings Because of this, the work of the Second Vati- last document of the Council teaches, Christ is can II to “open up the windows” of the Church, of the Council: collegiality. Vatican I had settle can Council was brought to a new phase as the not merely to let in “fresh air”, but especially the question of the pope’s teaching author- schemata would be dissected and refashioned “the key and the focus and the culmination of to allow the world see the glory and beauty of ity but left unsettled the teaching on bishops, to express, not simply the ideas of Vatican of- all human history” (Gaudium et Spes, 10). This the Church. Pope Roncalli’s notion of aggior- particularly how their authority relates to the fices and various theological experts, but the includes the history of the Church and the his- namento had as much to do with bringing the doctrine of infallibility and certain questions on discussion and prayer-inspired leadership of tory of the Council. As Christ, truly human and best of the Church to the world as with allow- the nature of the episcopacy in general. While the more than two-thousand bishops filling the truly divine, spoke clearly and directly to the ing the Church to be brought up to date. In the the early Church councils showed a remarkable great nave of Saint Peter’s Basilica. Ultimately, people of His time two-thousand years ago, He fragile and uncertain time after the horrors of sense of collegiality among the bishops, centu- the Council would present to the Church and to continues to speak relevantly to men and wom- World War II and the threats of the Cold War, ries of historical development had reshaped the the world four constitutions, nine decrees, and en of today as the Church extends His saving when pessimism and anxiety gripped most of relationship between the Bishop of Rome and three declarations. teaching and ministry. the world, the Church’s message of peace and the bishops of the world, both individually and One hundred years had brought about not (Father Brommer is the Administrative As- unity for humanity was more relevant than ever. collectively. Most of the bishops came to Rome only a change in the world, but had laid the sistant to the Bishop and Liturgy Coordinator With all that had changed in the world since for the Second Vatican Council simply out of foundation for a development in understand- for the Diocese of Harrisburg.) NOVEMBER 9, 2012, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 7

Commending Our Loved Ones to God’s Merciful Love

The Catholic Church’s recent observance of All Saints Day on recounting the wishes of his dying mother. November 1 and All Souls Day on November 2, coupled with au- “Because the day when she was to leave this life was drawing tumn’s barren trees and fields, understandably turn our thoughts to near – a day known to you, though we were ignorant of it – she mortality. and I happened to be alone, through (as I believe) the mysterious Yet, in pondering death, we’re also given an opportunity to re- workings of your will. We stood leaning against a window which flect on God’s promise of eternal life. With it, we can contemplate looked out on a garden within the house where we were staying, the Church’s rich and symbolic teachings regarding Catholic fu- at Ostia on the Tiber; for there, far from the crowds, we were re- neral rites, reverence for the body, cremation and resurrection. cruiting our strength after the long journey, in order to prepare In this special section, The Catholic Witness presents a series of ourselves for our voyage overseas. We were alone, conferring very articles that explains the Church’s teaching regarding cremation, intimately. Forgetting what lay in the past, and stretching out to offers a pastoral examination of the symbolism of the funeral lit- what was ahead, we enquired between ourselves, in the light of urgy, and speaks to the Church’s belief in the resurrection of the present truth, into what you are and what the eternal life of the body. saints would be like, for Eye has not seen nor ear heard nor human Reflections on the Body, Cremation and Catholic Funeral Rites, heart conceived it. And yet, with the mouth of our hearts wide open a booklet published by the United States Conference of Catholic we panted thirstily for the celestial streams of your fountain, the Bishops’ Committee on the Liturgy states, “at the center of Chris- fount of life which is with you…. tian faith is the belief that God has destined the human family for …. One day during her illness she lapsed into unconsciousness and eternal life with Christ, the risen Lord.... For this reason, the hu- man person, created in the image of God, has always been held in for a short time was unaware of her surroundings. We all came run- highest esteem in Catholic tradition. All creation is holy, because ning, but she quickly returned to her senses, and, gazing at me and my it was brought into being at God’s command. But humankind is brother as we stood there, she asked in puzzlement, ‘Where was I?’ especially cherished, since the human person, individually and in We were bewildered with grief, but she looked keenly at us and community, reflects the divine reality and is destined for eternal said, ‘You are to bury your mother here.’ I was silent, holding back life.” my tears, but my brother said something about his hope that she The bishops go on to write that “the body that lies in death re- would not die far from home but in her own country, for that would calls the personal story of faith, the past relationships, and the con- be a happier way. On hearing this she looked anxious and her eyes tinued spiritual presence of the deceased person.” rebuked him for thinking so; then she turned her gaze from him to Think of the Blessed Mother holding the body of her son, Jesus me and said, ‘What silly talk!’ Shortly afterwards, addressing us Christ, in the image of the Pieta. both, she said, ‘Lay this body anywhere, and take no trouble over Recall the words of St. Augustine written in the days leading up it. One thing only do I ask of you, that you remember me at the to the death of his mother, St. Monica. The words of St. Augus- altar of the Lord wherever you may be.’” (St. Augustine, Confes- tine, one of the Doctors of the Church, are heartfelt and inspiring, sions)

CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS Holy Cross Cemetery, Lebanon 8 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, NOVEMBER 9, 2012 The Power and Grace of the Funeral Liturgy

By Father Chester P. Snyder Some parishes allow for a eulogy before the funeral Mass is ended. The Special to The Witness eulogy, delivered by a family member or friend, should be read from a pre- pared text and speak of the faith and Christian virtues of the deceased. While s a young seminarian, I attended the funeral of the brother of a high personal memories might be appropriate in service to a eulogy delivered at Aschool classmate and friend. The deceased was a young man, a hus- the conclusion of the funeral Mass, generally stories, anecdotes and memo- band and father of two children, who died tragically in an accident while ries are better shared when family members and friends gather for a viewing serving in the military. Two images of that day have left a lasting impression: or visitation, or after the funeral rites are concluded. the first, the young widow, weeping, being supported by her family as she As a priest, I have always found the prayers of the Final Commendation at entered the church behind the casket of her dead husband; the second image, the end of the funeral Mass to be among the most beautiful and meaningful in that same woman, standing on her own, holding a hymnal while singing the the liturgical life of the Church. The commendation acknowledges the reality closing hymn as she followed behind the casket of her husband as the funeral of painful separation at the time of the death of a loved one and commends procession left the church. What had caused this dramatic transformation? the deceased to the loving mercy of God. The Invitation to Prayer instructs The answer is as simple as it profound: the power and grace of the funeral the faithful: “Before we go our separate ways let us take leave of our brother/ liturgy of the Church, carefully planned and executed by a sensitive, faith- sister. May our farewell express our affection for him/her; may it ease our filled pastor, transformed grief and sadness into renewed faith and hope for sadness and strengthen our hope. One day we shall joyfully greet him/her a family who had entered prayerfully into the suffering, death and rising of again when the love of Christ, which conquers all things, destroys even death Jesus that is celebrated in the funeral Mass. itself.” As the coffin is incensed and the Song of Farewell is sung, we pray There is an oft-quoted saying about the liturgy of the Church: the law of to the saints of God to come to the aid of our brother/sister and that the an- prayer establishes the law of belief; that is, the way we pray both expresses gels hasten to meet him/her and present him/her to God the most high. As a and establishes what we as a Christian people believe. This is especially true celebrant, when I incense the casket I pray privately that the person whom I of the funeral liturgy. In every Mass the Church am entrusting to the Lord will pray for me as a celebrates Jesus’ Passover from death to life; in member of the Communion of the Saints. every Mass those who have been baptized into “In him the hope of blessed With the closing prayer and final hymn, the the mystery of Jesus’ death and resurrection are resurrection has dawned, that spiritual life of the deceased comes full circle. renewed and nourished by the wisdom of God’s As the body is carried from the church we pray word and the gift that is the Eucharist. That re- those saddened by the certainty that our loved one, who was carried into the membrance and celebration of Jesus’ suffering, of dying might be consoled by the church and entered into the life of Christ in the death and rising is most evident in the prayers of promise of immortality to come. waters of baptism, may now enter the gates of the funeral Mass. paradise, welcomed by the angels and martyrs There is a trend in our society today to speak Indeed for your faithful, Lord, life into the new and eternal Jerusalem to celebrate of funeral rites as a celebration of the life of is changed, not ended, and when the heavenly liturgy before the throne of God. the deceased. While celebrating the life of our I am often asked if it is depressing to celebrate loved ones is important, that celebration is best this earthly dwelling turns to dust, funerals. There is a sadness that comes with observed at the time of the viewing or visitation an eternal dwelling is made ready leading a grieving family in prayer at such a or when family gathers after the funeral rites. sensitive time. But when the Church gathers and The funeral Mass is first and foremost the time for them in heaven.” celebrates the rites of Christian burial for our when the Church gathers to pray on behalf of the brothers and sisters in faith, there is also present deceased, whose life of faith, begun at baptism, a calming peace and reassuring hope. I like to was strengthened at the Eucharistic table. At her ~ First Preface for the Dead, think of the funeral Mass, when we entrust our funeral rites, the Church commends the dead to Mass of Christian Burial loved ones to the gentle mercy of our God, as a God’s merciful love and prays for the forgive- final gift we offer to those who have shared the ness of their sins. At the funeral Mass the Church joys and sorrows of our lives. also ministers to those who mourn the loss of a loved one as the proclamation There is one experience surrounding the death of a parishioner that I found of God’s holy Word and the Sacrament of the Eucharist bring healing and to be very sad and somewhat disconcerting. For several years I visited a hope to hearts that are heavy with grief. woman of great faith whose life was marked by illness and grieving follow- The funeral Mass begins with the reception of the body of the deceased at ing the death of her beloved husband. She often told me of her desire to be the entrance of the church. That Rite of Reception calls to mind the baptism buried with a funeral Mass at the parish church before being buried next to of the person who has died. As the coffin is sprinkled with holy water the her husband. She told the same thing to the funeral director she knew well. Church prays: “In the waters of waters of baptism, our brother/sister died When she died, the relative charged with making arrangements for her fu- with Christ and rose with him to new life. May he/she now share with him neral would not allow her body to be taken to the church for a funeral Mass eternal glory.” After the placing of the white funeral pall (a reminder of the and would not allow me to conduct the Rites of Burial at the cemetery. And white baptismal garment) the casket is taken to the front of the church and so, at the end of her life, this woman of faith was denied the benefits of a positioned near the Easter candle, symbol of the Risen Christ and his con- funeral Mass and was taken to her final resting place with no one present and tinued presence to his church gathered in prayer. At this time a Christian without the supportive, intercessory prayers of Church. symbol, (perhaps a bible, a cross, a rosary or prayer book of the deceased) That experience reinforced for me the importance of individuals making may be placed on the casket. known to their funeral director, family members and most especially to the Following the opening prayer, the Scripture readings, as indicated in the person charged with making funeral arrangements their desire for a funeral instruction for the funeral Mass: “proclaim to the assembly the paschal mys- Mass and Christian burial rites at the cemetery. In most families this is not a tery, teach remembrance of the dead, convey the hope of being gathered concern, but for some families where there might be tensions or when family together again in God’s kingdom, and encourage the witness of Christian members may no longer be practicing the Catholic faith, it is important to life.” The Liturgy of the Word “tells of God’s designs for a world in which leave instructions with the hope and request that those final wishes will be suffering and death will relinquish their hold on all whom God has called honored. A funeral is not for the consolation of the living alone but is also for his own.” Those planning the funeral Mass are encouraged to select read- the spiritual benefit of the one who has died. ings which “will provide the family and the community with an opportunity In the first Preface for the Dead in the Mass of Christian burial there is a to hear God speak to them in their needs, sorrows, fears, and hopes.” Those selected to read the Scriptures should be given the text in advance and should paragraph that expresses well what we as a church believe about the mean- be practicing Catholics who understand the power of God’s word and who ing and mystery of our living and dying. In addressing the Father, almighty have the ability to proclaim that word in an effective and reverent manner at and eternal God, the priest prays referring to his Son Jesus Christ: “In him a most sensitive time for family and friends. the hope of blessed resurrection has dawned, that those saddened by the cer- The Church helps families to select music that is related to the Scripture tainty of dying might be consoled by the promise of immortality to come. readings. Music should be chosen which “supports, consoles, and uplifts the Indeed for your faithful, Lord, life is changed, not ended, and when this participants” and “creates in them a spirit of hope in Christ’s victory over earthly dwelling turns to dust, an eternal dwelling is made ready for them in death and in the Christian’s share in that victory.” This is not a time to select heaven.” favorite hymns or secular music but rather a time to choose liturgical music When the Church gathers for the funeral Mass, our prayer is always that Jesus, who wept at the death of his friend Lazarus, will be our comfort and that is able to be sung by the entire assembly, as it expresses the paschal mys- hope as we entrust our loved ones to his mercy and peace. tery of Jesus’ suffering, crucifixion and triumph over death. Pastoral musi- (Father Snyder is a retired priest of the Diocese of Harrisburg, who served cians are able to help families make selections of music proper to the liturgy as pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Mechanicsburg from 1995 until his retire- and to the particular community where the funeral rites are being celebrated. ment in June of this year.) NOVEMBER 9, 2012, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 9 Died with Christ, Buried with Christ, Risen with Christ: Considerations on Catholic Cremations

By Father Joshua R. Brommer, STL be united with him in the resurrection” (Rom 6:3-4). Baptism prepares our Special to The Witness body, not for death, but for resurrection. Our very flesh has been consecrated for eternity! This is why the Church held the custom for centuries that the he month of November has traditionally been a time for Christians to bodies of Catholics are to be reverenced and honored with Christian burial. reflect on the mystery of death and hope in the resurrection, especially T The Catacombs in ancient Rome give testimony to the reverence Christians as we pray for the souls of the faithfully departed. Since paid to the bodies of their deceased loved ones. The iconography adorning the Year of Faith calls us to reflect more deeply on the their walls professes clearly the hope each Christian holds in bodily rising main tenets of our faith, this is a particularly good time again with Christ. for us to reflect on our belief in the resurrection of the From early on, the Church did not permit cremation, because it was seen body and the Church’s teaching on Christian burial. to deny the belief in the resurrection of the flesh. Although the Catholic Since the earliest centuries of the Church, the Church now permits the cremation and necessary internment words of the Apostles’ Creed have been confessed of the remains, the clear preference remains for the burial of in one form or another by Christian men the body following the celebration of the funeral Mass. In fact, and women. Resounding with the voices of some have even chosen to bring the body to the church for the the faithful throughout the generations, we funeral Mass, then cremate and bury the remains afterwards. also profess this faith, with these concluding The permission for cremation came to us recently, in 1963, words: “I believe in … the resurrection of the when the Church lifted its prohibition. In 1983, when the new body, and life everlasting. Amen.” The early Code of Canon Law was issued, the Church further clarified this per- creeds developed from Baptism liturgies, where mission stating that a Catholic may choose cremation provided they are those preparing for the cleansing waters were called not doing so for reasons that deny the Catholic teaching (canon 1176.3). upon to state publicly that they have received and sub- Such reasons may include an explicit or implicit denial of the resurrection sequently accepted the whole faith of the Church. Even of the body or of the dignity of the body. In 1997, the attitude of the Church today, the Profession of Faith continues to be a central toward cremation was further refined when the Congregation of Divine part of the celebration of this Sacrament. Worship and Discipline of the Sacraments granted an indult for the bishops The context of Baptism gives the clearest direction of the United States to allow the celebration of a funeral Mass in the pres- for unpacking the rich doctrine contained in each of the ence of cremated remains. However, whenever this happens, the funeral short phrases of the Apostles’ Creed. The original form liturgy is altered to suit the unique situation: while holy water is used, the of this particular confession of faith is handed over from Church does not permit covering the urn with a white pall nor incensing the the Church of Rome and is preserved in the Latin lan- urn, since the incense is reserved to honor the body of the baptized. guage. Since we are accustomed to reciting this Creed in English, the original Latin words might surprise us: Yet, prior to these liturgical questions of a funeral with cremated remains, “Credo in … carnis resurrectionem” – “I believe in … there are some other considerations that need to be taken seriously when choos- the resurrection of the flesh.” As with all expressions of ing cremation. First, the cremated remains of a Catholic Christian must always faith, every word we recite is significant and the choice be placed in a worthy vessel. A single urn is to be used. Ashes of a departed of the word “flesh” is no different. person may not be divided up into several containers. Although the Common- In the fifth century, St. Augustine struggled to explain wealth of Pennsylvania permits cremated remains to be taken anywhere, the succinctly the meaning of this part of our Creed. He Catholic Church is clear that it is contrary to her teaching to divide the remains preached, “Now with regard to the resurrection of the among different cemeteries or among different members of a family. Today, flesh (which is not like that of certain persons who have there is sometimes the option of devising jewelry or artwork out of the cremat- risen from the dead but have afterwards died, but is like ed remains of a loved one. Such actions are strictly prohibited by the Church. the resurrection of Christ’s flesh, that is, to life everlast- Similarly, urns containing remains may not be kept in private homes or scat- ing), I do not see how I can explain matters briefly.” tered in any way. We can imagine this saint’s listeners groaned inwardly All cremated remains must be interred with the proper rites of Christian and prepared for a long sermon! Fortunately, for us, burial. For the Catholic Church, the law is simple: should a Christian choose this brief statement says a great deal about our belief in cremation, the entire remains must be contained in a dignified urn and either the resurrection of the dead: it is not like Laza- buried in the ground or entombed in a cemetery columbarium or mausoleum rus who was resuscitated by Jesus in St. niche with the burial rites. This burial is a profession of faith! For those who John’s Gospel, nor is it like the miracu- have died with Christ in Baptism are to be buried like Christ as they lous resurrections of those at the time of the crucifixion. All of await the day of resurrection. those persons died again. Our prayer reveals our faith and directs our practice. The We believe that the Committal Prayer offered by the Church on these occasions resurrection of the sums up beautifully what we believe and how our choices flesh is the resurrec- are to reflect that belief: “In the sure and certain tion of Jesus Christ, hope of the resurrection to eternal life through whose victory over our Lord Jesus Christ, we commend to Almighty death is definitive and God our brother/sister N., and we commit his/ irreversible. Christ’s resur- her earthly remains to the ground … (or rection is to become ours as well. their resting place): earth to earth, This is why this article of the Creed ashes to ashes, dust to dust.” makes sense in the context of Baptism, for it (Father Brommer is the is in Baptism that we die with Christ. St. Paul writes, Administrative Assistant to the “Are you unaware that we who were baptized into Christ Bishop and Liturgy Coordinator Jesus were baptized into his death? We were indeed buried with for the Diocese of Harrisburg.) him through baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might live in newness of life. For if CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS we have grown into union with him through a death like his, we shall also Holy Saviour Cemetery, York 10 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, NOVEMBER 9, 2012 ‘I Look Forward to the Resurrection of the Dead’

By James F. Gontis came about, not through God’s choosing, but through man’s. It is ther slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are Special to the Witness a consequence of the great chasm between God and man caused by all one in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3,28). Some think that Paul is the sin of Adam, the Original Sin. But death does not have the final telling us that gender is ultimately irrelevant. The context indicates A human being is a composite of spirit (soul) word. The Word has the final word. The Word is Jesus and the Word otherwise. If you read the verse in context, Paul is talking about and matter (body). This is a bedrock principle of has destroyed death by His resurrection. Baptism, the rite by which both males and females enter into Christ. the Christian faith. Christians are neither spiri- The properties of Christ’s risen and glorified body are previews What Paul is saying is that all human beings — regardless of ethnic- tualists nor materialists. Materialists emphasize of the risen bodies of all those human beings who will be numbered ity, social standing or gender — enter into Christ Jesus in the same the reality of matter (body) and minimize, even among the Just. Every human being, whether numbered among the way and under the same terms. deny, the reality of spirit (soul). Spiritualists em- Just or the Unjust, will experience the resurrection of his or her One of the persistent myths that have haunted human imagina- phasize the reality of spirit (soul) and minimize, body when Christ returns at the end of time. tion is the myth of “the fountain of youth.” This will cease to be even deny, the reality of matter (body). Christians The condition of the resurrected bodies of the Just will correspond myth in the resurrected life. It shall be reality. We shall be forever hold to the reality and the goodness of both spirit precisely with the state of their souls. For those who have died in young. Our glorified bodies will never age, nor wrinkle, nor break and matter. God’s grace and friendship, their eternal glory will be manifested down, and they will never die! There was (is) a heresy called “angelism,” even in their bodies and they will possess magnificent properties. All human beings are created equal in terms of their fundamental which the Church condemned centuries ago. An- These seven properties of the glorified body as named by St. human dignity. Equality in dignity does not mean “sameness” in gelism, like Spiritualism, tends to erase the dif- Thomas Aquinas are: all other ways. Individuals are, obviously, diverse in many ways, Identity: The glorified body will possess its original identity in including talents, abilities, physical properties, etc. If a parent, one ference between angels and human beings, at the need only look at one’s own children to see that. In Heaven, there expense of human beings! We should know with that it will be united to your soul. Your body will really be your body, but that does not mean it will look the same as it did during shall be no inequality among human persons based on race, nation- utter clarity that no angel ever was or will be a hu- ality or other merely human constructs. man being, and no human being ever was or will your life on this earth. When Jesus appeared to His disciples after But will there be distinctions of any sort? Yes, there will be dis- be an angel. Angels and humans are two entirely His Resurrection, He often had to make Himself known in some tinctions, but these will be based on degrees of holiness. Holiness is distinct entities in God’s creation. way, even to those who were His closest disciples. We see this in not a human construct. It is a gift of grace. For example, of all God’s By nature, angels are far superior to human various post-Resurrection accounts in the Gospels, such as when He creatures, including the angels, Mary is first in the order of grace. beings. Nevertheless, there is at least one way had to call Mary Magdalene by name before she could recognize Everybody in Heaven will be completely happy forever and as sat- in which human beings have it over angels. God Him at the tomb. isfied as he or she can possibly be. That said, even among those in never became an angel, but He did become a hu- A question often asked is this: Will we be able to recognize our Heaven there will still be varying degrees of glory according to the man! Jesus is fully God and fully man. He is the family members and friends in their glorified bodies? The answer degree of merit which one has merited through his or her coopera- 2nd Person of the Holy Trinity with human soul is: Yes, God will see to that. We will see others and they will see tion with God’s gifts of grace while on earth, cf. Catechism of the and human flesh. He has always been God us as we and they really are. Our bodies as they are in their present Catholic Church (CCC) 2010, 2025. the Son and, about 2,000 years ago, He state do not adequately convey to others what and how we really Agility: This is the property by which our glorified bodies, acting became man. From that point on are. In fact, we shall not, in the fullest sense, really know others completely under the dominion of our souls, will have the ability and for all eter- nity, He is or be known by them until we are all in our resurrected bodies. to go effortlessly wherever we desire them to go — at the speed of and shall ever be both Integrity: The glorified body will be integral (complete), re- thought. Jesus manifests this property at Emmaus, cf. Luke 24:30- divine and hu- gardless of how it was during its earthly life, or at the moment 36, and St. Paul teaches us about it (as well as about other properties man. Jesus is in of its death, or after it has decomposed in the grave. Everyone in of the glorified body) in his First Letter to the Corinthians Chapter Heaven now, His Heaven, regardless of the condition of his body while on earth, 15. So, at the end of time, when God has transformed the created will have all his body parts. All will have perfect vision, hearing, world, if you, in your glorified body, want to be on a beach, with the Divine Person- warm waves lapping up on your toes, at the moment you desire it, hood and Divine mobility, etc. People die under all sorts of different circumstances. you would be there instantaneously. Or, if you want to see a particu- Nature permanently lar family member, you would be able to be with that person face joined to His human na- Many die of natural causes, but there are also those to face immediately. That, in a nutshell, is what is meant by Agility. ture. His human nature is His who die in ways that cause complete destruction Subtlety: On Easter Sunday night, Jesus appeared to His Apos- human body and human soul. of the body. This will be irrelevant at the time of tles, who were hiding out in the upper room in Jerusalem. In Chap- This should tell us something about the great resurrection. All glorified bodies will ter 20 of his Gospel, St. John notes that the door behind which the the dignity of our own bodies. Our bod- be entirely integral. Apostles were hiding was locked. Then Jesus appears before them ies are not something to be “shucked off” Quality: This is the property of the glorified in His glorified body. He is not a ghost! Because of the property like a husk from an ear of corn. Even if body by which everyone in his glorified body known as subtlety, Jesus was able to pass through the door of the disfigured by age or illness, or limited by will be as if in the prime of life. Although “mar- upper room. Earlier that same day, He had passed through the sealed disability, our bodies, as well as our souls rying and giving in marriage” will not be part of tomb in His risen, glorified body. Our glorified bodies, while physi- are always good and important. They our post-resurrection life, nevertheless we shall cal and tangible, will be completely under the direction of our souls, must be treated with the highest respect all be either male or female — the same gender free from restraint or impediment. This is Subtlety indeed! from the very first moment of conception God conferred on us at the moment of concep- Impassibility: Chapter 21, verse four of the Book of Revelation until natural death….and even beyond tion. Only in the post-resurrection life shall we says that in Heaven, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and death, unto the grave. adequately understand what it is to be mascu- there shall be no more death or mourning, wailing or pain, for the Death was not intended by God for line and feminine. old order has passed away.” In our glorified bodies, there will never any human being. It is not natural. It One of the great misunderstandings about be pain, sickness, suffering, or death. There will be no natural or gender derives from taking out of context supernatural disasters. No cancer, heart disease, diabetes, violence, something that St. Paul wrote. He wrote, accidents — not even a stubbed toe! What there will be is unend- “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is nei- ing joy — spiritual but also physical and sensual. We must not over-spiritualize. Remember the principle that human beings are a body-soul unity. Both body and soul are good and important. The reality in heaven is never- ending, uninterrupted happiness. There shall never be boredom in Heaven. We will go “from glory to glory” for eternity! “The one who sat on the throne said, ‘Behold, I make all things new.’ Then he said, ‘Write these words down, for they are trustworthy and true.’ - Revelation 21:5. Clarity (sometimes referred to as Bril- liance): In Chapter twelve, verse three, of the Book of Daniel, the prophet writes, “And those who lead the many to justice shall be like the stars forever.” Indeed they shall shine, both spiritually and physically. The body, in its final state, shall correspond completely to the state of the soul. Jesus gave the Apostles Peter, James, and John a foretaste of this property even be- fore His Resurrection, when, on Mount Tabor, he appeared with Moses and Elijah, and was transfigured in their sight. He does this to give them a hint not only of what He will be like after His Resurrection, but what they will be like after theirs! About this event, St. Matthew writes, “And He was transfigured before them; his face shone like the sun and his clothes be- came white as light” – Matthew 17:2. We see this quality stunningly and powerfully explained in Chapters one and four of the Book of Revela- tion, both to describe Jesus and to describe the saints in glory. Regardless of how one’s physi- cal appearance was or is on earth, the glorified bodies of everyone who arrive in Heaven will be magnificently beautiful beyond imagining, far surpassing in beauty and magnificence even the most beautiful people we have ever seen or known while they lived in this world. For at that time, “God will be all in all.” As Saint Paul says, “Eye has not seen and ear has not heard, nor has the heart of man conceived the good things that God has in store for those who love Him!” Holi- ness will be seen as beauty because, when all is said and done, true and lasting beauty is identi- cal with holiness! CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS (Mr. Gontis is the Director of the Diocesan De- Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Mechanicsburg partment of Religious Education.) NOVEMBER 9, 2012, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 11

Local Church News

The names of the following deceased persons Sister Mary Liliose have been submitted by their parishes: Felician Sister Mary Liliose died ABBOTTSTOWN – Immaculate Heart of Oct. 21 at Caritas Christi, the health- Mary: Raymond Varela. care center for the Sisters of Charity in BLOOMSBURG – St. Columba: Patricia Greensburg, Pa. She was 95. Auditions Scheduled for Diocesan Schola Cantorum Ann Chulock, Wilma L. LaGasse, Bernadette Born Leocadia Fien in Glassport, Pa., The Schola Cantorum of the Diocese of Harrisburg brings together the finest vocalists F. Yoder. she entered the Congregation of the in the diocese to lead the sung prayer at major diocesan events, such as the Chrism Mass, CARLISLE – St. Patrick: Donald Lunday. the ordination of deacons and priests, and the Rite of Election. All singers are expected Felician Sisters in 1935. She earned a to be of the highest caliber of musician, and able to prepare music at home on their own, ENOLA – Our Lady of Lourdes: Camilla bachelor’s degree from Mount Mercy so that during the limited rehearsal time, the conductor can concentrate on blend, nuance, Freeman. College and a master’s of education and interpretation, rather than teaching notes. Commitment to the ensemble is essential GETTYSBURG – St. Francis Xavier: Vivian from Duquesne University. During – attendance is expected at all scheduled events. Music is e-mailed to singers in advance, Kauffman. her years in education ministry, Sister and rehearsals are held as needed on select Tuesdays throughout the year. Auditions will be held Nov. 27 at 7 p.m. in the Cardinal Keeler Center, Harrisburg. HANOVER – St. Vincent de Paul: Lester Mary taught in the Dioceses of Pitts- E-mail Cathedral Director of Music Nicholas Basehore at [email protected] to re- Little, Sr. burgh, Harrisburg and Greensburg. ceive an audition form, or for more information. Please use “Schola Audition” in the She taught elementary grades for 44 subject line. Pre-registration is required by Nov. 21; no walk-ins will be accepted. HARRISBURG – St. Catherine Labouré: years and secondary social studies for Louise Milletics, Gerald F. Wilson. 24 years, 22 of them at Our Lady of Belle Voix Ensemble Presents Women of Note Program KULPMONT – Holy Angels: Christopher Lourdes Regional High School in Coal Madden. Belle Voix Vocal Ensemble will present their 2012 Fall Concert series Women of Township. Note, a program that features the choral compositions of female composers. Con- LANCASTER – Assumption BVM: In addition to her role as an educator, certs will be held in the York area Nov. 10 at Trinity United Church of Christ at 7 Catherine Kuster, Frank Their, Grace Sister Mary also prepared meals for the Ursprung. p.m. and at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Abbottstown Nov. 11 at 4 p.m. Sisters during her time in Youngstown, Belle Voix has presented concerts throughout Central Pennsylvania, from Lew- LITTLESTOWN – St. Aloysius: Michele Ohio. She also served as a tutor, even istown to Bethesda, Md. The group is featured on several “Christmas in Hanover Foreman. after she turned 90. CD’s”, has sung at events by invitation, such as the Marian Celebration in Har- MCSHERRYSTOWN – Annunciation She is survived by five sisters, and risburg. Belle Voix is under the direction of Beth D. Pugliese, the Music Director BVM: Louise T. Brady, Margaret D. “Dot” was preceded in death by her parents, at St. Joseph Parish in York. A graduate of Peabody Conservatory, she has served Smith. her two brothers and four sisters, in- in pastoral music ministry for over 29 years. MECHANICSBURG – St. Joseph: James B. cluding Felician Sister Mary Edith. “Skip” McGowan, John G. Slovensky. Father Moran Presented With Prestigious Vocations Award MIDDLETOWN – Seven Sorrows BVM: At this summer’s 25th Annual J.S. Paluch Vocation Seminar in Chicago, Father Martin Connie Gaffney. O. Moran, III, a priest of the Diocese of Harrisburg, was presented with the National Voca- tions Awareness Division Award for his commitment to collaborative ministry in sharing MILLERSVILLE – St. Philip the Apostle: the gospel and his tireless, joyful work with youth, young adults and campus ministers. Theresa Logalbo. Father Moran is a certified Catholic campus minister through the USCCB Certification MOUNT CARMEL – Divine Redeemer: Please pray for the following clergy Process who has served on diocesan boards for the promotion of vocations to the diocesan Margaret M. Wasileski; Our Lady: Alice priesthood for over 18 years. Currently, he is the Executive Director of Catholic Campus Concini. who died in November during the past Ministry Association, a role he has held for the past five years. 25 years: “Father Moran’s promotion of priestly and religious vocations has been a hallmark of NEW FREEDOM – St. John the Baptist: Father Joseph Braubitz, 1988 his service as Director of the Catholic Campus Ministry Association over the years. This Albert W. Fisher, Ruth M. Giordano, Verma honor and recognition is one that he truly deserved,” said Bishop David O’Connell of the Krichten, Marian M. Matthews, Helen Father Martin Zarkoski, 1992 Diocese of Trenton, New Jersey, and Episcopal Moderator for Catholic Campus Ministry McCauley. Father Michael F. Barrett, 1996 Association. PALMYRA – Holy Spirit: Rodney Bowman. In May 2013, Father Moran will celebrate his 25th anniversary of ordination to the Father Thaddeus Strzelec, 2005 priesthood. To learn more about Father Moran and Catholic Campus Ministry Associa- SHIPPENSBURG – Our Lady of the Father Paul Rindos, 2011. tion, visit www.ccmanet.org. Visitation: George Snow. Knights of Malta to Host “Defense of the Faith Series” Event on Love, Respect and Responsibility Workshop for Parish Archivists The Lancaster Region of the Order of Malta will continue their “Defense of the Faith Series” on Nov. 14. Guest speaker Dr. Trevor Martenson will speak on “Love, Respect November 17 from 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and Responsibility: An Explanation of Christianity’s Traditional Teaching on Artificial Cardinal Keeler Center, Harrisburg Contraception.” The evening will be held at St. John Neumann Church in Lancaster and will begin with Mass at 6:30 p.m., followed by Dr. Martenson’s presentation. Dr. Marten- The Diocesan Department of Catholic History and Archives will present son is a family practice physician and a member of the adjunct faculty, Lancaster General this workshop for lay parish archivists. The workshop will include instruction Hospital Family Medicine Residency. in the preservation of parish heritage. Ed Wickenheiser, retired WGAL-TV The Order of Malta is the fourth oldest and first lay order of the Catholic Church, found- ed in 1048 and given order status by a papal bull in 1099. Its mission is to defend the faith News Director, and Teresa Weisser, Librarian at Millersville University, will and care for the poor and sick. The Lancaster Region of the Order of Malta consistently again share valuable information about how they are working with fellow participates in service projects on local, national and international levels. The purpose of parishioners in preserving the heritage of Holy Trinity Parish in Columbia. the “Defense of the Faith Series” is to spread the Good News of Catholic teachings by Parish archivists, members of archivist committees, parish secretaries and celebrating the Eucharist and hearing witness to Catholic doctrine. For information on the volunteers are encouraged to attend. The workshop is for both new and ex- event, or to learn more about the order, visit www.orderofmaltalancaster.com. perienced archivists. Cost of the workshop is $15, and includes lunch, snacks and materials. RSVP to the Archives Department at 717-657-4804. Holy Spirit’s Urgent Care, Data Center Under Construction Holy Spirit Health System’s Spirit Urgent Care Center and Data Center are currently under construction on North 21st Street in Camp Hill. “This facility will allow Holy Spirit to provide urgent care to people who live and work in the area, as well as a state-of-the-art data center that will allow us to continue to enhance electronic health records so we can continually improve patient outcomes,” said Sister Romaine Niemeyer, SCC, president and CEO, Holy Spirit Health System. To report suspected abuse of “Our Emergency department visits are at an all-time high of more than 50,000 visits a minor, call the toll free PA annually. Some of the patients we care for in the ED really need non-emergency care,” she said. “In addition, we realize that people are busy and it’s difficult to fit healthcare Child Abuse Hotline: appointments into their lives. We knew we had an opportunity to provide patient-centered 1-800-932-0313 care in a more efficient and convenient manner for the community we serve by building an urgent care center.” “Because of the proximity to Holy Spirit Hospital, we knew this was the perfect place To report suspected abuse of for an urgent care center. We also knew that our two existing data centers were quickly a minor by a church official, outgrowing their maximum capacity. Housing the urgent care center and data center at employee or volunteer, also this location was our most cost-effective and practical solution,” said Sister Romaine. please call the diocesan toll When the Spirit Urgent Care Center opens, the physicians and staff will take care of patients with non-life threatening injuries and illnesses; those who don’t have a primary free hotline: care physician; individuals who have a doctor but would use the urgent care service after 1-800-626-1608 regular office hours, and patients with busy lifestyles who are unable to commit to sched- uled appointments at a physician’s office. The 35,000-square-foot building is expected to open in early 2013. The Spirit Urgent Care Center will occupy about 6,600 square feet, while the Data Center will occupy about 28,000 square feet. 12 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, NOVEMBER 9, 2012

Catholic Sports Report Delone Digs Out Record Volleyball Title

Above: The District 3 champi- ons from Delone Catholic receive their ninth title.

Outside hitter Cambria Wierman defends the net. EMILY M. ALBERT, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS

By Chris Heisey raucous crowd at Dallastown High School on Nov. 3. ing a sprained ankle late in the season. The Catholic Witness Having won the YAIAA league title over Southwest- Behind Smith, the Squirettes rallied to beat the Saints ern when they stared down a match point to come back 25-17 in the third, 25-15 in the penultimate set and won No program has won more District 3 girls’ volleyball to top the Mustangs in a tense five-setter, Delone simi- an exciting, 15-13, in the deciding set to win gold. Not championships than the Squirettes of Delone Catholic. larly had their hands full with the Saints, dropping the only did the Squirettes benefit from the senior’s hitting Since 1974, they have won an amazing nine Class AA first two sets of the five-set match. And trailing 6-1 in ability by pounding the outer lines, the Squirettes were titles, with their latest coming with a thrilling victory the third, things looked bleak until off the bench came able to adjust they defense to dig and block the Saints over the Saints of Berks Catholic played in front of a injured senior middle hitter Ali Smith, who’s been nurs- imposing, big hitters. Delone Catholic Runners are Golden in Hershey By Chris Heisey The Catholic Witness Just days before Hurricane Sandy blew through Central Pennsylvania, a perfect, warm late autumn day unfolded for the District 3 cross country championships at Hershey’s 3.1 mile Parkview course. In the Class A, (a new classification starting this year) Delone Catholic won the team title, besting York Catholic by team points. De- lone Catholic was led by freshman Kate Mowrey, who eclipsed the 21:00 mark on the tactically difficult course that features steep inclines and a start that requires run- CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS ners to get out fast so as to not be forced Hershey’s Parkview course is also the site of the PIAA state meet, which was held in cold blustery weather that was back into the pack as the route narrows. into the harrier’s face the final mile. Delone’s Kate Mowery fights to climb the final incline during states where she Delone placed three runners in the top-6 finished nearly 25 seconds behind her district pace. It’s a difficult course to race on in a ten-day span. In Class AA, and York Catholic had five runners in the Lancaster Catholic’s senior Shannon Cruz finished in the Top 20 at states, cracking the critical 20-minute barrier to top-20 to earn second place team silver. win a medal. NOVEMBER 9, 2012, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 13

Catholic Sports Report

Crusaders’ Doubles Team Rebounds for State Tennis Title By Emily M. Albert The Catholic Witness Two young ladies, Lil Veronis, left, and Julia Davis, right, made made school history for Lancaster Catholic at the PIAA State Tennis finals. They are the first doubles to win a state championship for the Crusaders. “There wasn’t time to be nervous,” commented Lil, a sophomore. “It was probably the best we ever played.” The beginning of the season would not have predicted this win for the two Crusaders. Julia started the season with an injury, and Lil played along the side of another teammate. They picked up their double’s place together mid-season, noting that they didn’t really start to play to their full potential until Districts, where they finished second against Berks Catholic. “We were still trying to get used to playing together,” said Julia. In the state finals, the girls went head to head again with the District-3 champions from Berks Catholic, but finished first this time in a close match, 6-3, 7-5. “It was pretty intense in the second set,” Julia and Lil both agreed. “We just tried to forget what was on the line and relax.”

EMILY M. ALBERT, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS Trinity Tradition Shares Soccer Stage Together

By Chris Heisey The Catholic Witness Good soccer at Trinity High is a tradition for both the girls and the boys. And now that the two pro- grams have a chance to shine in the fall with the move of girls’ soccer to coincide with the boys’ sea- son, it is possible for the two programs to play in the District 3 playoffs at the same venue on the same day. That’s what happened at Comet Field at Penn Manor High School in Millersville, Nov. 1. The girls won a classic double overtime match against Wyo- missing to reach the district final. Micaela Olive- rio netted the semifinal game’s only goal late in the second OT. The Shamrocks went on two days later to handily beat Northern York, 3-0, at Hersheypark Stadium to win the Class AA title. The boys’ lost to Biglerville 3-0 in the semis at Comet Field. Trinity’s Micaela Oliverio goes airborn after a shot on goal.

The Rocks’ Sara Sajer creates an offensive opportunity. EMILY M. ALBERT, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS (Emily M. Albert was a contributing reporter to these sports stories.) The Rocks’ Francis Janton competes for a loose ball. 14 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, NOVEMBER 9, 2012

St. Cecilia Parish in Lebanon will hold its annual Christ- mas Bazaar Nov. 17 at the 750 State Drive Social Hall from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Walnut, poppyseed and apricot strudel, plus sugar cookies, will be available. Also, homemade candies and caramels, needlework and crafts, gift baskets, jewelry and handbag boutique, chance Compiled by Jen Reed Harrisburg to New York JFK, roundtrip airfare from JFK on nonstop flights booth, and flea market items. Breakfast pastry will be available, and with Delta Airlines, and more, for $3,150 per person/double occupancy. lunch will be served. Spiritual Offerings For complete details on this pilgrimage, contact: George’s Interna- St. Paul the Apostle Parish Council of Catholic tional Tours, (800) 566-7499, [email protected], or Karen Hurley, Women in Annville present a Holiday Bazaar Nov. 17 from 8 A Caelorum, Eucharistic Adoration with song, will [email protected]. a.m.-2 p.m. Craft Corner featuring hand crafted wooden articles, be held Nov. 16 at 7:30 p.m. at St. John the Baptist’s “Historic Church” Celebrate “The Year of Faith” with a pilgrimage to jewelry, sewn, crocheted and knitted items, Christmas decorations, in New Freedom. For information, call Glenn Czaplinski at 717-993- wreaths, ornaments and more. The Sweet and Bake Shoppe with 6020. Medjugorje, April 22–30, 2013. Climb “Krizevac” (Cross Mountain), visit Apparition Hill, hear talks by the visionaries and meditations by par- homemade chocolates and confections, cakes, pies and cookies, Mass in the Croatian language will be celebrated Nov. 18 ish priests, participate in daily Mass, prayer of the Rosary, the Sacrament jams, jellies and biscotti. The Café dishes up fresh made clam at 12:30 p.m. at Prince of Peace-Assumption of the Blessed Virgin of Reconciliation, Eucharistic Adoration, Veneration of the Cross, and chowder, minestrone and chicken corn noodle soups, meatball subs, Mary Church in Steelton. more. Father Samuel E. Houser, pastor of St. Patrick Parish, York, will hamburger BBQ and hot dogs with kraut. Call 717-867-1525 for Mass in the Polish language will be celebrated by Father serve as Spiritual Director. Cost $2,190. For more information or to regis- information. Walter Sempko Nov. 18 at 2 p.m. at St. Catherine Laboure Church in ter, contact Donna Giberti at 717-818-5105 or [email protected]. A fall craft fair will be held Nov. 17 from 8:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. Harrisburg. Confessions will be heard after Mass. Pilgrimage to the Marian Shrines of Europe: Join Sister at Trinity High School in Camp Hill, sponsored by Next Gen Disciples The Annville-Cleona Area Council of Churches will Eileen McGowan of St. Joan of Arc in Hershey from June 26-July 8, (NGD) Family Ministries, Inc. Over 50 crafters and vendors will sponsor the Community Thanksgiving Eve Service Nov. 21 at 7:30 2013. From Lisbon to Madrid, visit some of the important sites in the sell items just in time for holiday gift giving. Homemade breakfast p.m. This year the host church is St. Paul the Apostle Church. Clergy Christian faith such as a rosary and candlelight procession at Our Lady and lunch items as well as baked goods will be for sale. For more from the area churches will participate with the message being given of Fatima Shrine and the Camino Pilgrim’s Way where you can do some information, contact Tanya at [email protected] or Kris at by Dustin Sider, lead Pastor of Fairland Brethren in Christ Church in of this famous walk in Santiago de Compostela. Travel along the way of [email protected]. Cleona. St. James to Burgos. Cross into France to Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine The Sacred Heart Home and School Association in and the birthplace of St. Bernadette. Tour the Basilica of Our Lady of Conewago will hold its Christmas Craft Show and Bazaar Nov. 17 Education, Enrichment & Support the Pillar in Saragossa before ending in Madrid with a visit to the Prado from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on the historic grounds of the Conewago Chapel. Harrisburg area single’s group “WinDow’S” invites wid- Museum. The trip will include visits to many other sites, a professional Hand crafted art and craft vendors, independent consultants, home- owed, divorced and single men and women to join other singles each tour escort and driver, first class accommodations, daily breakfast, and made baked goods, silent auction, raffles, food and Santa. There will month at different restaurants, have a lovely meal, great conversation, five dinners. The cost, including trip insurance, is $2,468 per person be a $1 donation at the door for a local person in need. and a chance to make new friends. Open to all ages and all faiths. double occupancy plus airfare of approximately $1,200. A $200 discount St. Philip the Apostle Parish’s Women’s Auxiliary Sponsored by Father Charles Persing, pastor of St. Margaret Mary will be available for those who book and deposit by Nov. 15. For more in Millersville is sponsoring a Christmas craft show with more Parish in Harrisburg. Call Julia for more information, 717-652-3598. information, or to book this tour, contact Cecile Mortel at 717-798-0303 or than 50 crafters Dec. 1 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. in the parish gym and [email protected]. Theology on Tap sessions for young adults will be held in No- classrooms. The Lancaster Friends of the Library will sell quality vember in Harrisburg and York. The session in Harrisburg will be held Join a Year of Faith pilgrimage to Marian Shrines in used books. Admission and parking are free. The kitchen will be Nov. 14 at Ceolta’s at 6:30 p.m. and will feature speaker Bill Donaghy; Portugal, Spain and France July 15-26, 2013. We have especially set open for hot and cold sandwiches, soups, snacks and baked items. visit www.stjosephmech.org/ministries/adult-education/theology-on-tap extra days in Fatima and Lourdes for private prayer and devotions. Other or on Facebook at Theology on Tap – Harrisburg. The session in York sites to be visited on the pilgrimage include Coimbra, Salamanca, Alba Events & Fund-Raisers de Tormes, Avila, and Burgos. In Paris we will visit the Chapel of the will take place at Maewyn’s Irish Pub Nov. 21 from 6:30-9:30 p.m.; Delone Catholic High School in McSherrystown Sean Malloy will speak on “How God Messed with My Life.” Miraculous Medal at Rue de Bac, Shrine of Saint Vincent de Paul, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Basilica of Sacre Coeur. Roundtrip airfare and will hold its second-annual pit beef sale in the school parking lot on Discovering Christ is an exciting program designed to help airline taxes/fuel surcharges, 10 nights accommodation in First Class/4 South Street Nov. 10 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The meals will be prepared men and women encounter the person of Jesus Christ and accept his star hotels, breakfast and dinner daily, land transportation by private by Little Everett’s BBQ, with the proceeds again being donated to the invitation to know him in a personal relationship. Come and share a deluxe motorcoach, train tickets from Lourdes to Paris, all entrance fees, Hanover Area Council of Churches Provide-a-Lunch (PAL) program. free meal, listen to a dynamic presentation and explore answers with Daily Mass, and more for $3,789 per person/double occupancy. For A Polish pottery bingo will be held in the parish center at others in small groups on basic questions of purpose, faith and life. complete details on this or other pilgrimages, contact Karen Hurley at Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in Berwick Session dates include Nov. 13 and 20, and Dec. 4. Our Lady of Hope, [email protected]. Nov. 11. Doors open at 12:30 p.m., game begins at 2 p.m. There will Coal Township, and St. Patrick, Trevorton, will host this free program be 20 games, door prizes and raffles. Homemade food and desserts. Tuesday evenings from 6:15-9 p.m. Sessions alternate between par- Join in a pilgrimage to celebrate and learn about the spiritual journey of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton in Italy. Tickets are $20 and are available at the parish or by calling 570-759- ishes. To register, call Our Lady of Hope: 570-648-4432 or St. Patrick: 8113. 570-797-8251. Sulpician Father John Kemper and Msgr. William King will join with expert guides to lead this faith-filled journey Sept. 6-15, 2013. Father Kemper St. Patrick Parish in Trevorton will hold a Chinese Adult education: Join us at the Xavier Center in Gettysburg is Director of Saint Mary’s Spiritual Center (Mother Seton’s House) in Auction Nov. 11. Doors open at 10 a.m., auction starts at 2 p.m. Ad- Nov. 7 and 14 when Dr. Steven Smith offers a series exploring the Baltimore, and Msgr. King is pastor of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish mission is $3. Breakfast sandwiches, varied foods, desserts, hourly Gospel of St. John. Dr. Smith is on the faculty of Mount St. Mary’s in Mechanicsburg. This trip begins at the sites in Tuscany (Livorno and raffles, kids’ grab bags, theme craft items, gift certificates and more. Seminary where he teaches Sacred Scripture. His classes will be Pisa) where Elizabeth Ann Seton found consolation in Mass and the Eu- Music by the “Polka Quads” and a hot lunch buffet high- held from 7-8:30 p.m. All are welcome! Contact John Knowles, Adult charist while mourning the death of her husband. This led her to embrace Education Coordinator, with any questions at 717-677-4420. light the Holiday Kickoff sponsored by Harrisburg Catholic Elemen- the Catholic faith and in turn to follow God’s call to found the Sisters of tary School Nov. 11 from 2-6 p.m. at the Saint Lawrence Lodge in Dr. Patricia McCormack, IHM, will share the expertise she Charity. The pilgrimage will also visit Florence, Assisi and Rome, with Steelton. Cash bar, door prizes, Chinese auction and more. $20 for has gained from years of study and classroom experience, as well as daily Mass and spiritual reflections, ending with a private Mass in Saint adults, $5 for children 10 and under. All profits benefit the school’s the “best practices” of hundreds of parents, during a presentation at Peter’s Basilica. For program details, registration, and general informa- scholarship fund. Call Anna Marie Berry at 717-232-9600 for more St. Joseph Church in Mechanicsburg Nov. 11 from 7-9 p.m. Dr. Mc- tion, visit www.illume.com/trc/vor. information or to reserve your spot. Cormack is an educator, author, and nationally-renowned speaker. Her session will offer an emphasis for parents of middle and high school The movie “October Baby” will have a one-time showing students. Childcare available. No charge, but free-will donations Fall Festivals & Christmas Bazaars on Nov. 12 at 6 p.m. at the Allen Theatre in Annville. This special welcome. RSVP to Mary Vukelich at 717-766-9433. St. Benedict the Abbot Parish in Lebanon will host showing of this family film with a positive message is being spon- its Annual Christmas Bazaar Nov. 10 from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. in the social sored by the Pro-Life Committee at St. Paul the Apostle Parish in “Sanctity of Life: A Catholic Perspective on End hall. Oplatki Christmas wafers, homemade candy includes caramels, Annville. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the door. The film of Life Issues” will be presented by Carolanne Hauck Nov. 14 at is rated PG-13. 7 p.m. at St. Peter Parish Center (lower level) in Columbia. She will peanut or raisin clusters, peanut butter cups & balls. Baked goods address advance directives, nutrition and hydration during the end of include nut, lecvar, and apricot rolls, poppy seed, nut, apricot & sugar Court Queen of Peace #1023, Catholic Daughters life process, and Hospice care options. Light refreshments after the cookies. Homemade pierogies, soup (take-out available), pulled pork, of the Americas will host a Friendly’s Fundraiser Nov. 13 at the presentation. No RSVP required. For information, call 717-684-7070. haluski, halupki, kielbasa, hot dogs, egg rolls, Spanish selections and Friendly’s at 1519 Oregon Pike, Lancaster, from 5-8 p.m. The Court more. Themed baskets raffle, knit booth, small gift booth and small will receive a percentage of all sales between those hours on that Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary white elephant table. Call 717-450-4506. date. The Court will hold its regular monthly meeting Nov. 17 at 1 Parish in Berwick will host a Year of Faith program beginning St. Anthony of Padua Parish in Lancaster will host its p.m. followed by Bingo for the residents at 2 p.m. at Conestoga View Nov. 15 at 6:30 p.m. The program features one-hour lessons from Home in Lancaster. Individuals interested in attending the meeting Father Robert Barron. The Catholicism adult formation program is Christmas Bazaar, “Frosty Frolic,” Nov. 10 from 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. in the cafeteria at Resurrection Catholic School. Food, crafts, holiday are welcome, or learn more about the organization by contacting Dr. open to the community. Session dates Nov. 15 and Jan. 17 include Rita Smith-Wade-El at 717-203-3441. a two-part session, “Amazed and Afraid – The Revelation of God decorations, gifts, wreaths, jewelry and sweets/desserts. Children’s Become Man.” Future sessions take place Feb. 21, March 21, April Shopping Room and raffles for prizes including themed gift baskets, a York Catholic High School students will present “Arsenic 18, May 16, June 20, July 18, Aug. 25, Sept. 19, Oct. 17 and Nov. 24. handcrafted coffee table, photographs, gift certificates, etc. Music by and Old Lace” by Joseph Kesselring Nov. 17 at 7 p.m. Nov. 18 at Watch this section of The Catholic Witness for specific topics and accordionist Cody McSherry. 2:30 p.m. in the high school auditorium. Tickets are available at details on upcoming sessions. Or, for more information, contact the will host its annual Holiday the door at a cost of $5 for adults, $3 for senior citizens, and $2 for St. Joseph Parish in Hanover children under 12. parish at 570-759-8113. Bazaar Nov. 10 from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and Nov. 11 from 8 a.m.-noon. An Introduction to Centering Prayer Workshop will Baked goods, Granny’s attic, Cookie Lee Jewelry, Pampered Chef, All-decades reunion at Bishop McDevitt High be held Nov. 17 from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at St. Joseph Church in Me- Mary Kay and a large variety of crafts. Call the parish at 717-637- School Nov. 17 from 6-11 p.m. Music through the decades will chanicsburg. Based in the Christian contemplative heritage, Centering 5236. be played in Tracy Hall, buffet dinner in the West Cafeteria, Sports Theme Bar in the East Cafeteria and Mr. Brixius’ Dessert Table, Prayer is a method of response to God’s invitation to enter into loving The Council of Catholic Women of St. Andrew Par- intimacy and ever-deepening relationship. The practice prepares us to a photo booth and much more. Volunteers are needed for des- ish in Waynesboro will host a Christmas Bazaar Nov. 10 from serts. Tickets are $60 after Nov. 7. This evening is for adults over the be open, available, and present to God’s action and presence within. It 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Homemade items for everyone on your list. We facilitates a process of interior transformation initiated by God as we age of 18. For tickets and more information, contact Rita Fulton at will be serving lunch and will have a baked goods table for your sweet 717-236-7973 ext 445 or [email protected]. consent to divine union. There will be six follow-up sessions. Cost is tooth. Come do all of your shopping for the holidays. $25. Participants should bring a brown bag lunch. For information, or A Cabaret Dinner Show featuring artists from New York to RSVP, contact Carolyn Yankovitz at 717-258-4216 by Nov. 10. Gift fair and holiday bazaar. Share the Love Nov. 10 City, sponsored by the Knights of Columbus, will be featured in from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. at Saint Francis Xavier Center, Gettysburg. Fair Bishop Rhoades Hall at the Cathedral Parish of St. Patrick in Har- “Advent: Sacred Time, Sacred Space” will be offered Trade gifts, coffees, teas, chocolates, holiday gifts, baked goods, Dec. from 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at the St. Cyril Spiritual Center in risburg Nov. 17. Tickets are $25. Hors devours will be served at 6:30 Danville. This season of hopeful waiting is a time to pause and reflect holiday craft items, and religious articles. Original packaging and p.m. A dinner of homemade lasagna, bread, salad and dessert along on the amazing invitation to sacred transformation and new life. We gently used gifts, local vendors on hand. Fair Trade Cafe with organic with coffee, tea, water and iced tea will be served at 7 p.m. Contact are invited during this Advent Season, like Joseph, to place our faith coffees and teas. Raffle for themed gift baskets. Call 717-677-7466 or the Parish Office at 717-232-2169 for more information. This is a and trust in God’s plan for us. Sister Maria DeMonte, OP, will be the visit www.sfxpccw.org. BYOB event. presenter. Offering of $40 includes full dinner. Call 570-275-3581 or The Saint Anne’s Retirement Community Auxiliary visit www.sscm.org. in Columbia is sponsoring a Bazaar and Craft Show Nov. 16 Parish, School & Organization News from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Nov. 17 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at St. Anne’s Catholic War Veterans, Post 1342 Bonneauville, Retreats & Pilgrimages Retirement Community in Columbia. Handcrafted items and seasonal recently presented financial donations to six area Catholic schools. Com- ...just when you need it most! The decorations, St. Anne’s note cards, baked goods table, craft vendors. mander Wayne Smith, along with 3rd Vice Commander Rich Bernard, “Simplifying Christmas” Lunch of chicken corn soup, hot dogs, BBQ, cold drinks, and coffee. delivered checks for $1,000 each, to the principles of six Catholic area Cumberland-Perry District Council of Catholic Women’s mini-retreat schools to assist in their education programs for their students: Delone will be held at St. Joseph Church, Mechanicsburg, Dec. 1. We will Donations of baked goods may be brought to the Retirement Com- munity Nov. 15 or 16. Catholic High School in McSherrystown, Annunciation of the Blessed begin with Mass at 8 a.m. and end at 2 p.m. Keynote by Father Louis Virgin Mary School in McSherrystown, Immaculate Conception of the Ogden, pastor. Program by Jan Chaplick. Cost is $20 and includes The annual Christmas Bazaar at St. James Parish Blessed Virgin Mary School in New Oxford, Sacred Heart of Jesus meals. To register, contact Mary Vukelich at 717-766-9433 by Nov. 26. in Lititz will take place Nov. 16 from 4-8 p.m. and Nov. 17 from 8 School in Conewago, St. Francis Xavier School in Gettysburg, and St. Pilgrimage to the Holy Land – Join Father Joseph Gotwalt as a.m.-7 p.m. Crafts, wreaths, floral arrangements and knitted items, Joseph School in Hanover. we follow in the footsteps of Jesus from March 9–19, 2013. The scriptures white elephant sale, children’s room with Santa, bake sale, basket The Knights of Columbus of the Cathedral Parish of will come alive on this journey to the roots of our faith. Tour includes: raffle, silent auction, 25 cent bingo, grab bag, fish bowl and a raffle St. Patrick in Harrisburg are holding a Christmas wreath sale. Daily Mass at holy sites, licensed Christian guide, accommodation in First for fabulous prizes. St James Café open Friday evening. Saturday’s The wreaths are 22 inches and assembled from fir evergreens, deco- Class hotels (five nights in Jerusalem, three nights in Tiberias, on the menu includes light breakfast options, soups, sandwiches, home- rated with clusters of pine cones and a waterproof velvet bow. They will shore of the Sea of Galilee), breakfast and dinner daily, land transporta- made pierogies and salads at lunch and a ham/turkey dinner in be available for pick-up in time for the Christmas season. Wreaths are tion by deluxe motorcoach, roundtrip motorcoach transportation from the evening. For information, call 717-626-5580. $20. For ordering information, call the parish at 717-232-2169. NOVEMBER 9, 2012, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 15

World and National News

Sandy A woman stands alone in water in front of homes in the Continued from 1 Staten Island borough of New York that were heavily dam- Among the parishes that opened their church doors for aged or destroyed by flooding people whose homes are no caused by Hurricane Sandy. longer habitable, was Blessed The costs of recovery efforts Trinity Church in Breezy Point. after the widespread devasta- It is located in the mandatory tion and destruction caused evacuation zone declared for by the super storm could be Hurricane Sandy, but Msgr. among the highest for any Michael Curran, pastor, initial- disaster in U.S. history. ly remained at the rectory. He said power went out Oct. 29 at 7 p.m. In the immediate aftermath of the storm, the po- lice set up a command center in one of his church buildings. Bruce Angle was among the Breezy Point residents who did not evacuate and watched as flood waters forced their way into his home. He said the wa- ter was a couple of feet high and his beds were completely soaked. He spent the next night sleeping in the choir loft of St. Thomas More Church, a wor- ship site of Blessed Trinity Par- ish. “There is no heat, but it’s still warmer than my house,” he said. He had used a priest’s chasuble as a blanket to keep warm during the night. Msgr. David Cassato, chap- lain to the New York City Po- lice Department, and Msgr. Ja- CNS/MIKE SEGAR, REUTERS mie Gigantiello, pastor of Mary Queen of Heaven Parish in Mill wife has been part of the com- The power to Mr. Soker- cell-phone network to start re- Basin, joined Bishop DiMarzio munity there for her entire life. ka’s home was restored in 48 lief efforts. on his pastoral visit. At every He said “that’s the hardest part hours, “which is a miracle,” he A special collection was stop people came to speak with because of all the memories of added. But for many others in to take place in parishes the them, some in tears and others being there – and now what do the three-county diocese, “the weekend of Nov. 10-11. Half you do?” power companies are still giv- asking for prayers. will go to diocesan Catholic Bishop DiMarzio said he However, he said the people ing dire forecasts of seven to 10 in the community take care of days” to restore power, he said. Charities agencies serving the will ask parishes throughout needy affected by Sandy, and the diocese to take up collec- each other. Diocesan Catholic Charities tions to help with the rebuild- “There is no one person who agencies had power, but phone the other half will go to parish- ing process. He will also coor- is alone, we are all a commu- and Internet problems have es whose storm damage was dinate with Catholic Charities’ nity,” he said, so as soon as forced them to put together a not covered by insurance. emergency action plan to get information is available to one people the help they need. He person, everyone will know, said his message to the faith- even if they don’t have access ful is: “Pray for the people of to electricity or a phone, he How to Help the peninsula. They have a long said. road to recovery.” In neighboring New Jersey Catholic Charities USA is accepting cash donations That road, however, seems in the Diocese of Paterson, the as it develops its response to the victims of Hurricane murky to many people affected full extent of damage to the Sandy. by the natural disaster. physical plants of diocese’s Donations can be made online at the Catholic Chari- “I don’t think anyone knows 111 parishes is still being ties USA website at www.catholiccharitiesusa.org. what the process is,” said Bill learned by insurance adjustors, Donations also can be made by calling toll-free (800) according to Richard Sokerka, Slattery, who saw his family’s CNS/GREGORY A. SHEMITZ 919-9338 or by mail to P.O. Box 17066, Baltimore, MD secondary residence in Breezy communications director for Katie O’Toole is overcome with emotion during 21297-1066. Point reduced to a pile of ash. the diocese. Worst hit were The Alexandria, Va.-based agency has begun working “All you know is what you hear rural and suburban areas with Mass in the auditorium at St. Mary of the Isle on the radio.” downed trees. Parish in Long Beach, N.Y., Nov. 4. Services with state and local government disaster response agen- Mr. Slattery has been part “I lost a pine tree on my were moved after flooding from Hurricane Sandy cies and charitable groups to meet emergency needs in of the Breezy Point commu- lawn. Luckily it missed my damaged the church. Long Beach was one of the communities in New Jersey and New York devastated nity for 30 years. He is on the house and crashed through the worst hit areas of Long Island when the super by the late October storm. softball team there, and his fence,” Mr. Sokerka said. storm swept through the Northeast Oct. 29. Pope to Synod: Foster ‘Missionary Dynamism’ and ‘Pastoral Creativity’

By Francis X. Rocca whose inhabitants await with lively expectation, sometimes on the new evangelization. Catholic News Service without being fully aware of it, the first proclamation of the At that same meeting, the pope said that he had decided to Gospel,” the pope said. And as a result of migration driven by make two administrative changes relevant to the new evangeli- Winning converts to the Church, ministering better to globalization, he added, the “first proclamation is needed even zation. Responsibility for seminaries will shift from the Vatican practicing Catholics and bringing lapsed members back in countries that were evangelized long ago.” Congregation for Catholic Education to the Congregation for into the fold are all parts of the multifaceted effort known Finally, the pope spoke of the need to persuade lapsed Catho- the Clergy, he said; and responsibility for catechesis will shift as the “new evangelization,” Pope Benedict XVI told a group lics, “especially in the most secular countries,” to “encounter from the latter office to the Pontifical Council for Promoting of bishops and other Church leaders from around the world. Jesus Christ anew, rediscover the joy of faith and return to reli- New Evangelization. The pope made his remarks Oct. 28 during his homily at a gious practice in the community of the faithful.” The pope also congratulated the six bishops, four of them Mass marking the end of the world Synod of Bishops on the This effort, in particular, calls for “pastoral creativity” and members of the synod, whom he will induct into the College new evangelization. The three-week gathering, which brought use of a “new language attuned to the different world cultures,” of Cardinals Nov. 24. He said he had named the new cardi- more than 260 bishops and religious superiors to the Vatican, he said. As an example of such innovation, the pope mentioned nals-designate, none of whom hails from Europe, as a sign of along with dozens of official observers and experts, discussed the Vatican’s “Courtyard of the Gentiles” project, which pro- “the universality of the Church, showing that the Church is a how the Church can revive and spread the faith in increasingly motes dialogue between religious believers and agnostics. Church of all peoples, [and] speaks in all languages ... not a secular societies. Referring to the day’s reading from the Gospel of St. Mark, Church of one continent, but a universal Church.” Pope Benedict underscored “three pastoral themes” that he the pope invoked Bartimaeus – the blind man who miraculous- One of the cardinals-designate, Philippine Archbishop Luis said had emerged from the talks. ly received his sight back from Jesus and then joined him as Tagle of Manila, was also one of 15 new members of the ordi- “Ordinary pastoral ministry ... must be more animated by the one of the disciples – as a model for Christians in countries nary council of the general secretariat of the Synod of Bishops fire of the Spirit, so as to inflame the hearts of the faithful,” he “where the light of faith has grown dim.” announced Oct. 26. said, stressing the importance of the sacrament of confession, “New evangelizers are like that,” Pope Benedict said, The new council members, who will oversee the interna- and the necessity of “appropriate catechesis” in preparation for “people who have had the experience of being healed by God, tional gatherings of bishops periodically held at the Vatican, the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and the Eucharist. through Jesus Christ.” include two U.S. bishops: Cardinals Donald W. Wuerl of Wash- The pope also called for a “new missionary dynamism” to The day before the closing Mass, at the synod’s last work- ington and Timothy M. Dolan of New York. Others included “proclaim the message of salvation to those who do not yet ing session Oct. 27, Pope Benedict thanked the participants for Cardinals Christoph Schonborn of Vienna, Austria; Peter Turk- know Jesus Christ.” their work, including the final propositions that will eventually son, president of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace; “There are still many regions in Africa, Asia and Oceania serve as the basis for a document of the pope’s own reflections and George Pell of Sydney. 16 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, NOVEMBER 9, 2012

Faith and Life

Bishop McFadden Makes Pastoral Visit to Lancaster Catholic

CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS Amidst Lancaster Catholic High School students, Bishop Joseph P. McFadden offers a homily on the Feast of All Saints.

By Chris Heisey The Catholic Witness Matthew Alton and Anne Marie DeCarolis n the Feast of All Saints, Nov. 1, Bishop Joseph P. McFadden made serve during the Mass Oa pastoral visit to Lancaster Catholic High School where he cel- celebrated by Bishop ebrated Holy Mass and afterwards spent time with students as he visited Joseph P. McFadden several classrooms. “There has never been a more important time than now to get a Catholic at Lancaster Catholic education,” Bishop McFadden told the students and faculty. He reminded High School on All the students to thank their parents and guardians for understanding the im- Saints Day. portance and sacrifice needed to provide this gift of sending their children to such a wonderful Catholic school. And he reminded them to never for- get how much their parents love them and want them to succeed by their continuing support of Catholic education. “This day is your holy day, because you all have the potential to become future saints,” Bishop McFadden said in his homily.

Father Allan Wolfe, left chaplain at Lancaster Catholic High School and pastor of San Juan Bautista Parish in Lancaster, and Father David Danneker, Ph.D., right, pastor of St. Peter Parish in Elizabethtown, concelebrate Mass with Bishop Joseph P. McFadden.

Lancaster Catholic High School students gather as a family of faith to celebrate Mass.