FEBRUARY 25, 2011 VOLUME 47, NUMBER 4

INSIDE: Page 2: Diocese continues to invest in Youth Protection Program Page 5: Diocesan Council of Catholic women celebrate nine decades of faith and service Page 6: Religious brother trades hot rod for habit Page 9: Sports Commentary: Coach and Me The Joy of Vocations

CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS Mason Moore and Hannah Eckerb, first graders at St. Leo the Great School in Rohrerstown, cheer on their fellow students as they play “Who wants to be a Catholic- Heir,” a trivia game the school held during its celebration of Vocations Day. Bishop McFadden joined more than 15 priests and religious sisters at the school as they spoke to students about their call to enter religious life. See page 8 for more coverage. Father Conrad Religious Center in Kulpmont Adds Relics Laid to Rest of Mother Maria Kaupas to Its Collection By Jen Reed By Emily M. Albert congregation, the Sisters of St. Casi- before constructing an education to The Catholic Witness The Catholic Witness mir. preserve and develop the faith life for The congregation was founded in Lithuanian immigrants at Holy Cross Father Brian P. Conrad, a priest of the Catholicism, like many faiths, grows Diocese of Harrisburg for nearly 35 years, from heritage and history. When our Scranton and established a Moth- School in Mount Carmel. died of cancer Feb. 13 in the Carolyn Crox- mothers’ mothers or our fathers’ fa- erhouse in in 1911, but not More COLLECTION, page 6 ton Slane Residence thers immigrated to the , of Hospice of Central they not only brought an extensive Father Raymond in Har- background of ethnic food, traditions Orloski talks about an risburg. He was 60 and language, but they raised their image of Mother Maria years old. children in their faith. Kaupas, whose belong- Born in Harrisburg While working as a housekeeper for ings are on display at on Oct. 29, 1950, he the St. Pauline Center her brother, Rev. Anthony Kaupas, in in Kulpmont. attended Our Lady of Scranton, Pa., during the late 1800s, the Blessed Sacrament Casimira Kaupas, an immigrant of School and Bishop , witnessed the plight of the McDevitt High School in Harrisburg and Lithuanian immigrants who were in Mount St. Mary’s College in Emmitsburg, need of someone to minister to them Md. He was a 1972 graduate of St. Mary’s in their native language. Seminary College in Baltimore, and a 1975 She decided to pursue the religious graduate of St. Vincent Seminary in Latrobe, life to teach the faith to the Lithu- Pa. anian immigrants and in 1907 made Bishop Joseph Daley ordained Father her profession of vows and received Conrad a priest on April 24, 1976, at St. Pat- her name, Sister Maria. Bishop John rick Cathedral in Harrisburg. W. Shanahan of the Diocese of Har- More FATHER CONRAD, page 11 risburg sponsored Sister Maria’s new EMILY M. ALBERT, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS  - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, February 5, 011

Local Church News Diocese Continues to Invest Significant Resources in Youth Protection and Victims Assistance

if a child reports suspected abuse to them. The The tragic occurrence of the sexual abuse of minors Diocesan Review Board is now reviewing the affects every part of society, and every profession. It final draft of the script. cuts across all denominations and occupations. In 2010 the diocese received three new al- The primary concern of the Diocese of Harrisburg legations of the sexual abuse of a minor. Two is for the spiritual welfare of the victim and the vic- were found to be substantiated. One allegation tim’s family. To help with that, the diocese has a Vic- involved a diocesan priest who was deceased. tim Assistance Coordinator. He is Dr. Mark Totaro, The activity was said to have occurred in the who receives all calls to the Diocesan toll free abuse early 1960’s. Of the remaining two allegations, hotline, 1-800-626-1608. Anyone who has been a one could not be verified after an investigation victim of abuse is urged to contact the Diocese and which included interviews of several persons, the PA Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-932-0313. including the accused priest, who is retired and Dr. Totaro helps the victim determine what pas- not in active ministry. The initial report was toral or spiritual assistance may be most beneficial made to the diocesan toll-free reporting hotline and offers help in locating appropriate resources. by a family member who chose not to iden- According to Totaro, “The first role of the Church tify the victim. The final allegation involved a is to offer spiritual assistance, doing what a Church priest belonging to a Religious Order who had does best, offer prayer and the compassionate Grace not served in the Dio- of Jesus Christ.” He remains in contact with victims cese of Harrisburg for and families, often for several years after the abuse many years. The report is first reported. was turned over to the The diocese realizes that healing is a long process. priest’s Order. Despite With that in mind, victims are provided with a vari- In 2010, the Diocese of Harrisburg continued to the fact that the alleged activity in all three cas- ety of resources with the goal of providing help so devote significant resources to the prevention of sex- es took place between 20 and 50 years ago they were as to create hope for their future. All victims are of- ual abuse of minors as well as to provide assistance all reported to the appropriate civil authorities. fered spiritual, pastoral and mental health assistance to victims and their families, according to Msgr. According to Msgr. King, “The Diocese of Harris- regardless of their ability or willingness to pay. William J. King, Vicar General for the diocese and burg recognizes the terrible tragedy of sexual abuse Counseling services are via qualified independent director of its Youth Protection Program. of minors in our society. It is an appalling sin and a professionals. The Diocesan Youth Protection Review Board heinous crime and it has no place in the Church. We Depending on specific circumstances, victims may recently met with Bishop Joseph P. McFadden to have zero tolerance for it. Our primary commitment also be offered material assistance as needed for ba- review all activity related to youth protection dur- is to respond effectively to an allegation of abuse sic living expenses, which may include health insur- ing 2010. Msgr. King provided the overview at that and to assist the victim in recovery and healing.” He ance as well as tuition assistance for the children of meeting. “Although Review Board members are in- added, “In tandem with that effort, we constantly victims who attend Catholic schools. In 2010 the volved in every new case as it happens,” according strive to maintain a safe environment for ministry diocese assisted six victims. Costs totaled $30,700. to Msgr. King, “the annual review meeting gives us with youth throughout our 15 counties.” The Diocese has helped 39 victims since 2002, pro- the opportunity to look at everything once again and Msgr. King noted that an updated version of the viding $1,300,000 in assistance. determine how to improve our response to victims.” Diocesan Youth Protection Program is in final draft- According to Msgr. King, when monetary settle- In September 2010, the diocese underwent its an- ing stage and will soon be sent to the Review Board ments are made with victims, the amounts are de- nual audit of youth protection programs. This is con- members for editing and approval. termined by analyzing the real-world needs of the ducted on-site in the diocese by an independent audit At its recent meeting, the Diocesan Review Board victim. “Diocesan resources are limited, but in char- firm engaged by the United States Bishops’ Office suggested several modifications to the policy, includ- ity and in justice we try to determine with the victim of Child and Youth Protection. The audit includes ing changes to the criminal history checks required what their real needs are so that they may receive a thorough review of records as well as interviews for all clergy and employees, and for all volunteers the necessary resources to meet their basic needs as with diocesan staff, legal counsel, parish staff, re- in youth-serving programs. These changes will be they face the challenges of emotional and spiritual view board members, civil authorities, and even one reflected in the new policy, said Msgr. King recovery.” During 2010, the diocese settled three or more victims. As a result of the week-long audit, Bishop Joseph P. McFadden was saddened by the claims with victims. These out-of-court settlements the diocese was found to be in full compliance with contents of the recent Philadelphia Grand Jury re- totaled $84,000. None of the monies used for victim the requirements of the bishops’ Charter for the Pro- port and reiterated what he said at his Installation as assistance in 2010 were reimbursed or covered by tection of Children and Young People. Bishop of Harrisburg, “In the name of the Church I insurance, but came from the diocesan loss retention The diocesan Youth Protection Office has an annu- apologize for this terrible injustice that was commit- fund which is budgeted annually. al budget of $69,500. One of the highlights of 2010 ted against you. The way that it was dealt with in the According to Msgr. King, additional training is activities was the distribution of ID badges to more Church was wrong and we are sorry. I assure you, planned for clergy, employees, and volunteers in than 14,000 employees and volunteers who success- the victims, that you have my deepest love and con- 2011. In March all priests in the diocese are required fully completed the training and screening require- cern and I will do all in my power to see that no such to attend a session which will deal with professional ments of the program. Wearing the ID badge is re- tragedy occurs again in the Church. I do have an im- boundaries and sexual harassment in the workplace. quired of any adult in a youth-serving ministry at all age that I want to convey to you and it is the image Training in state-mandated reporting of child abuse times when in the presence of minors. Parents and of the Sorrowful Mother Mary holding her battered is conducted throughout the year for youth minis- youth should look for the badge on volunteers and and beaten Son after the terrible crucifixion that he ters, educators, and clergy. On May 19, the diocese staff when they are participating in any event, and underwent. Though He was innocent He was defiled. will sponsor a day-long symposium on the use of should question any adult who is not wearing one. Please know I desire to comfort you as Mary held social media tools in ministry. Msgr. King noted, Nearly 1,800 adults successfully completed the di- her innocent son. I pray that in time you will experi- “This symposium will help us to identify new areas ocesan on-line Safe Environment training last year. ence the Resurrection in your own life and that your for ministry, evangelization, and education through In the three years since this training program was de- wounds will be healed.” the evolving tools of social media, but it will also veloped by the diocese, approximately 14,000 per- Those who abuse children betray their vows and help us understand the legal and moral issues which sons have viewed the 30-minute program and suc- betray the mission of the . They set the boundaries for including these tools in the en- cessfully completed the accompanying quiz. Similar have no place in ministry. In accord with the U.S. vironment of ministry.” vigorous activity was seen by the Youth Protection Bishops’ Charter for the Protection of Children Msgr. King added a final note, “The suffering of area of the diocesan website which during 2010 and Young People, the longstanding policy of the the Body of Christ continues in the lives of the vic- logged over 187,000 visits from almost 137,000 Diocese of Harrisburg is to immediately and per- tims of sexual abuse, no matter their age. But we are visitors. manently remove from ministry any priest, deacon, a Church born from the Cross and we herald hope Development continues on a brief on-line video employee or volunteer who has committed even a in the midst of pain, because Christ has ultimately training program for teenagers who help out in youth single act of sexual abuse of a minor, whenever it triumphed over the darkness of sin and its tragic con- ministry or volunteer in youth-serving activities in occurred, as soon as we learn of that abuse. The Dio- sequences. This is our mission, to walk people from parishes or schools. The focus will be on maintaining cese promptly relays every report of suspected child the Cross to the empty tomb, and pray with them as a safe environment for ministry and how to respond abuse to public authorities. they see hope dawn in their lives.” FebruAry 25, 2011, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 

Local Church News

Sign up for the ‘Theology on Tap’ Diocesan E-news Letter Sessions Scheduled Hungering for spiritual food? Thirsting for community and faith? Come to Keep up to date with the speed that e-mail can offer Theology on Tap, an opportunity for young adults ages 21-35, single or mar- by signing up for the diocesan e-news letter. It will ried, to gather for a speaker and conversation series in order to learn more come to you monthly or as needed and will feature about the Catholic faith and live it more fully. updates and reminders on happenings and matters of Sessions will be held at Ceoltas in Harrisburg and Annie Bailey’s Irish interest and importance concerning our local Church. Pub in Lancaster. A link to sign up can be found on the home page of Harrisburg: the diocesan Web site, www.hbgdiocese.org. • March 10 – Sean Malloy, Youth Minister at St. James Parish in Lititz The evening begins with arrival at 6:30 p.m., the speaker at 7 p.m., ques- tions and answers at 7:45 p.m., and socializing at 8 p.m. For information, and to register, visit the Theology on Tap-Harrisburg group on facebook or www. theologyontapharrisburg.com. Lancaster: • March 2 – Bishop Joseph P. McFadden of the Diocese of Harrisburg • April 6 – Father Robert Gillelan, of of the Blessed Mary Parish in York • May 4 – Speaker to be announced Annulment Presentations Scheduled The evening begins at 7:30 p.m. with a Happy ½ Hour cash bar, the speaker at 8 p.m., time for The Tribunal of the Diocese of Harrisburg will offer presentations con- questions and answers at 8:45 p.m. and socializ- cerning divorce and annulments from the Catholic perspective in the coming ing at 9 p.m. For information, contact Mary Ellen months. These presentations will be helpful for divorced Catholics, divorced Reitmeyer at 717-394-1035 or youth_ministry@ people who wish to marry Catholics, parish leaders involved in the RCIA pro- stleos.org, or Elise Grignon at egrignon@gmail. cess and those who have a vested interest because of family or friends. com. Or, find Young Adults of St. Leo’s on face- Presentations will include a question-and-answer session and an opportunity book or visit www.totlancaster.com. for private conversation with Tribunal staff and representatives. For more in- formation, call 717-657-4804 or send an e-mail to [email protected]. • March 2 – Cardinal Keeler Center, Harrisburg, 7 p.m. • March 28 – St. Joseph Church, York, 7 p.m. • May 10 – St. Joseph Church, Danville, 7 p.m. Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat • June 9 – St. Patrick Church, Carlisle, 7 p.m. April 1- in etters For those suffering the grief of an abortion A Rachel’s Vineyard weekend is a chance to get away from all the dai- ly pressures of work and family, and focus on this painful time in your life through a supportive and non-judgmental process. The time away provides an opportunity to deeply enter the grieving process and identify all the ways your abortion may have affected you. There is no judgment, only mercy and compassion. Register early as space is limited. Totally Confidential – Contact Joy at 717-788-4959 or RVpamd@gmail. com or visit www.rachelsvineyard.org.

Feb. 27: The poor often do not get the respect for their dignity that they de- serve. This week listeners will learn about a ministry that does just that when they hear an interview with Louise Pennartz. In spite of her battle with multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, the after effects of several strokes and a visual impair- ment that has rendered her legally blind, Louise works tirelessly with Wings of Peace, a ministry in Phoenix that feeds the poor with the respect and dignity that they deserve. In our Ask a Franciscan segment Father Don Miller, O.F.M., answers the fol- lowing ethical questions: How can someone control his or her anger? Do suffer- ing and death come from God? How can couples negotiate conflicts in marriage? That question is addressed in our Marriage Moment by Greg and Jennifer Willits, hosts of the talk radio show The Catholics Next Door. This segment is in response to the U.S. bishops’ multi- year initiative on marriage. For more information on improving, preparing for and sustaining marriage, visit www.ForYourMarriage.org. Hear from a journalist whose life has taken a turn after the shootings at Col- umbine High School. Chris Benguhe is a writer, editor, speaker and columnist March 2 – Read Across America Day, Bishop for The Catholic Sun, the diocesan newspaper of Phoenix. As a journalist, Mr. McFadden will be reading to students at St. Joseph Benughe wrote about entertainment and lifestyle for People magazine and as a School in Mechanicsburg via Skype, 10 a.m. reporter for The National Enquirer. Following the Columbine tragedy in 1999, his career took a different course. Two students there took the lives of 12 classmates March 2 – Theology on Tap, Annie Bailey’s in and one teacher, injuring 21 others before they committed suicide. This event Lancaster, 7:30 p.m. convinced Mr. Benughe to make a difference with his words, and he began writ-

th ing stories of faith and spirituality. His most recent book is Overcoming Life’s 7 March 8 – St. Francis Soup Kitchen 30 Common Tragedies: Opportunities for Discovering God, published by Paulist Anniversary, Harrisburg, noon. Press. March 8 – Mary, Gate of Heaven Mardi Gras Catholic Perspective is heard Sunday mornings on WLAN-AM 1390, Lancast- party, Myerstown, 6 p.m. er at 7:30 a.m.; WHYL-AM 960, Carlisle, at 8 a.m.; WHVR-AM 1280, Hanover, at 8 a.m.; WKOK-AM 1070, Sunbury, at 6:30 a.m.; WIEZ-AM 670, Lewistown, March 1 – Rite of Election, St. Patrick at 8 a.m.; WWSM-AM 1510, Lebanon, at 7 a.m.; and WWEC-FM 88.3, Eliza- Cathedral, Harrisburg, 3 and 7 p.m. bethtown, at 9:30 a.m. It is also available on line at www.OldiesRadio1620.com at 6:30 a.m. or for download at www.hbgdiocese.org.  - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, February 25, 2011

Catholic Commentary Working Through A Hard Death

By Father Tad Pacholczyk No stranger to death and dying, this afterwards, he turned to God and said: Special to The Witness nurse had assisted countless other pa- “Lord Jesus, I will do my best tients with pain, air and hunger man- to offer up the sufferings that lie Caregivers and health care profes- agement. During her mom’s final ahead of me, whatever they may sionals can and often do greatly assist hours, she had significantly increased be, but I would ask that you send those who are suffering and dying. morphine doses per hospice protocols, Father Tadeusz us 18 new candidates for next Even with careful pain management but with little or no apparent relief. Her year’s incoming class.” The good and comfort measures, however, the mother’s death ended up being very Pacholczyk priest faced an excruciating death, dying process can still be agonizing hard. Reflecting on it afterwards, she but a few months later when the and difficult. Each death has a unique realized that if she had not been both candidates started showing up at and particular trajectory, but even the a healthcare professional and a person the seminary, there were exactly most difficult and unpleasant deaths of- who trusted deeply in God, she would 18 new students in the class. ten have powerful graces and remark- have been, to use her own words, “out that she (and I) had been given this gift His story speaks of how suffering has able opportunities for growth mysteri- of my mind with horror.” of time, we became increasingly de- meaning whenever we unite it to the re- ously interwoven into them. Why certain deaths are so much hard- voted to the Divine Mercy of Jesus. I demptive sufferings of Christ. Our suf- Some time ago, I corresponded with er than others is no easier to explain than am of the opinion that God gave Mom ferings and struggles are an important, a registered nurse about her mother’s why certain lives are so much harder an opportunity to be on the cross with albeit temporary, part of our journey. final battle with lung cancer. She de- than others. It gives us pause, though, Him.” They are a harbinger of a greater desti- scribed the unexpected shifts in her to ask whether suffering doesn’t have Real suffering engages a lot of com- ny and a promise of our transformation. mother’s condition that had taken place some hidden but important meaning, plex emotions. We may worry that our John Paul II once described it this over a period of eight days: “…pass- however it enters our lives. As we seek crosses will be more than we can bear. way: “The cross of Christ throws sal- ing through a day of Cheyne-Stokes to use the tools of medicine to alleviate We may not see how our sufferings vific light, in a most penetrating way, respirations [a pattern of deep breath- the suffering of those who are dying, could really have any value or mean- on man’s life... the cross reaches man ing, followed by stoppage of breathing, we realize how delicate a balancing act ing. In the end, suffering can make us together with the resurrection.” Our followed by repetition of the cycle], it can be, fraught with difficult deci- bitter or it can make us better, depend- experience of suffering and death, even days of such shallow breathing that sions about dosages and interventions, ing upon how we respond to it and a very hard death, offers us mysterious death seemed literally one breath away, and not always guaranteed to work. use it to enter into deeper union with and dramatic graces, with the reassur- days of calm coma, two days where When pain and suffering cannot be al- the Lord who suffered and died a hard ance that God himself is ever near to death for us. the smell of imminent death was de- leviated, patients ought to be helped to those who carry their cross. I’m reminded of a story I once heard tectable, signs of diminished extrem- appreciate the Christian understanding (Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D. ity perfusions coming and then going, about a priest in Poland who taught at of redemptive suffering. earned his doctorate in neuroscience coming and then going, day after day, The nurse described how she and her the seminary. Each year, there had been no urine output, then urine output, then mother had experienced this Christian fewer candidates entering the semi- from Yale and did post-doctoral work no urine, then urine again, emerge from understanding themselves: “My Mom nary, rarely more than 8 or 9, and it at Harvard. He is a priest of the diocese this state and embark upon three hours and I prayed hard and much over this was becoming a serious concern for the of Fall River, MA, and serves as the of increasingly severe respiratory dis- past year. She was expected to die a seminary and the diocese. One day, this Director of Education at The National tress culminating in a violent respira- year ago. As we began to understand priest learned he had a terminal illness, Catholic Bioethics Center in Philadel- tory arrest.” that she was actually improving and with only a few months to live. Shortly phia. See www.ncbcenter.org.) A Life of Miracles By George Weigel that at this moment I am participating in passing exams through his inter- Special to The Witness in a miracle: in a country devas- cession. The pope who lifted up the tated by the ideology of hatred, vocation of marriage and who was a The otherwise inexplicable cure of a the messenger of love has ar- fierce defender of the right-to-life of French nun suffering from Parkinson’s rived; in a country devastated by the unborn would have certainly been disease was accepted in early January George the government of the ignorant, touched by the letters from previously by the Congregation for the Causes of the living symbol of culture has infertile couples reporting conceptions and Pope Benedict XVI as the Weigel arrived; in a country that, until after years of sorrow and prayer. confirming miracle that clears the way a short time ago, was devastated On the day of John Paul’s funeral, for the of Pope John Paul by the idea of confrontation and April 8, 2005, the people of the Church II on May 1, Divine Mercy Sunday. division in the world, the mes- spontaneously proclaimed him a John Paul II’s life was a life of mir- senger of peace, dialogue, mutual with their cries of “Santo subito!”—“A acles—a life in which radical open- is. In spite of this, I dare say that, at this tolerance, esteem and calm understand- saint now!” With the announcement of ness to God’s grace opened channels moment, I am participating in a mira- ing, the messenger of fraternal unity in John Paul’s beatification, it might be of grace for others. In April 1990, the cle: the man who six months ago was diversity has arrived. said that the judgment of the Church’s new president of then newly-liber- arrested as an enemy of the state stands “During these long decades, the Spirit leadership has now caught up with the ated Czechoslovakia, Vaclav Havel, here today as the president of that state, was banished from our country. I have spontaneous judgment of the Church’s caught this dimension of John Paul’s and bids welcome to the first pontiff in the honor of witnessing the moment in people. Yet John Paul’s sanctity was which its soil is kissed by the apostle of remarkable life when he memorably the history of the Catholic Church to recognized not only by the people of spirituality.” welcomed the pope to Prague in these set foot in this land… the Church, but by the people of the “Welcome to Czechoslovakia, Your stirring terms: “I am not sure that I know what a world—hence all those letters ad- “I am not sure I know what a miracle miracle is. In spite of this, I dare say Holiness.” In its witness to the miracle of Karol dressed, “Pope John Paul II—Heaven.” Wojtyla’s life, Vaclav Havel’s elo- Thus the beatification on May 1 will be, in a sense, an ecumenical and in- The Catholic Witness quence was matched by the untutored OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF HARRISBURG eloquence of those thousands of people ter-religious affair, in that the life of from all over the world who, sponta- heroic virtue being recognized and cel- Most Rev. Joseph P. McFadden neously, wrote the Postulation for the ebrated was a life recognized as such Publisher Beatification and of John far beyond the formal boundaries of the Catholic Church. Jennifer Reed Paul II, telling their own stories of how Telephone this man they had never met had, none- The Church doesn’t make saints; 717-657-4804 ext. 201 Managing Editor theless, changed their lives. Many of God makes saints, and the Church rec- FAX ognizes the saints that God has made. 717-657-7673 Staff the letters were from non-Christians, Email: [email protected] Chris Heisey Emily M. Albert even non-believers. Some were simply John Paul II was convinced that God Susan Huntsberger was profligate in his saint-making— Website: www.hbgdiocese.org addressed, “Pope John Paul II—Heav- en”—and found their way to the Pos- that there are examples of sanctity all Yearly Subscriptions: $8.17 per family, derived from tulation’s offices near St. John Lateran around us, if we only know how to look The Catholic Witness (ISSN 0008-8447, USPS 557 120) is published biweekly for them and see them for what they diocesan revenues from the parishes. except Christmas/New Year and July by the Harrisburg Catholic Publishing in Rome. Other subscriptions: $24.00 Association, 4800 Union Deposit Road, Harrisburg, PA 17111 3710. Periodicals Some of those letters reported recov- are. His blessedness consisted in no ery from illness; others reported even Moving? Send us the address label postage paid at Harrisburg, PA. small part of showing us the blessed- from The Catholic Witness plus your more difficult recoveries from addic- ness of others. NEW address including zip code +4. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: tions, estrangements, even hatreds. (George Weigel is Distinguished Se- Please allow three weeks for the The Catholic Witness, 4800 Union Deposit Road, Harrisburg, PA 17111-3710. The professor-pope would likely have nior Fellow of the Ethics and Public change. smiled at the letters reporting success Policy Center in Washington, D.C.) February 25, 2011, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 5

Faith and Life Council of Catholic Women Celebrates Nine Decades of Service, Spirituality and Education By Jen Reed the Family Concerns Commission. “I think The Catholic Witness of our promotion of Fair Trade items and our financial donations to Catholic Relief “We are no longer the gray-haired ladies Services. Through works of peace we try baking cookies.” to help people in developing countries be- That’s what Peg Clissa, a lifelong mem- come entrepreneurs.” ber of the Council of Catholic Women, says With a plethora of diocesan commissions of the ladies in the 91-year-old organiza- that focus on spirituality, service and lead- tion. ership, women can work in areas in which “I think a lot of people have that image they are most interested. in their minds when they think about what Today, activities of the Harrisburg Dioc- we do, and it’s up to us to get out there and esan Council of Catholic Women include change that mindset,” she said during a projects for the protection of children and roundtable interview with members of the the environment, prayer shawl ministries, Harrisburg Diocesan Council of Catholic support of the Hispanic Apostolate, and Women. scholarships for diocesan students. A look at the activities taken on by council “As a member of CCW, you can work members reveals a litany of various social within your niche, or you can explore dif- and moral concerns: Distributing clothes to ferent areas,” Mrs. Onomastico said. “I the needy. Providing meals to laborers at lo- think the Council of Catholic Women can cal horse tracks. Promoting religious voca- do nothing but grow and continue to move tions. Sponsoring spiritual retreats. Work- forward because of the gifts that women ing to give people in developing countries JEN REED, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS Members of the Harrisburg Diocesan Council of Catholic Women gather to bring.” access to clean water. Communicating with talk about the organization’s spiritual, service and educational opportunities. legislators on issues surrounding the sanc- Front row from left are Marian Sneeringer, Harriet Glass, Helen Lagasse and Fruits of their Labor tity of life, care of immigrants and the pro- Peg Clissa. Back row from left are Barbara Burger, Stella Kulp, Joyce Scott For all that the ladies of the CCW do tection of marriage. and Bonnie Onomastico. in spreading the Gospel message in word This is the work of the ladies involved in and in deed, they receive much in return: the Council of Catholic Women at the par- growth in spirituality, camaraderie, leader- ish, district, diocesan and national levels. the U.S. bishops, some 200 Catholic wom- and focusing on efforts to distribute Catho- ship skills and a sense of humility and joy in Every Catholic woman is considered to en gathered in the nation’s capital to form a lic literature to the faithful. Projects in the knowing that they’ve helped those in need be a member of the CCW. Today, the Na- national organization that would strengthen, council’s early years included an institute to and enriched the lives of others. tional Council of Catholic Women con- inspire and unite them in spreading Gospel help address problems in labor and indus- “We get much more than we give. There sists of more than 4,000 affiliated Catholic values and addressing the social concerns try, Christmas contributions for those arriv- are so many benefits to being a member women’s organizations in parishes and dio- of the day. The National Council of Catho- ing at Ellis Island, campaigns against por- of council,” said Harriet Glass, Diocesan ceses, representing hundreds of thousands lic Women was born. nography, and financial donations to parish, Chair of the Hispanic Apostolate/Migrant of members. Three years later, Harrisburg Bishop school and scholarship funds. Ministry Commission. “Our mission is to support, empower and “Just seeing people’s appreciation of what Philip McDevitt sent York native Anna During World War II, activities expanded educate all Catholic women in spirituality, we do is gratifying, and it makes you want Dill Gamble to Washington to examine to the adoption of war-torn families, sup- leadership and service, to inspire and pro- to continue,” Mrs. Kulp said. “We’re hop- the workings and activities of the national plying linens and religious articles to the mote Gospel values in a constantly chang- chapels at military camps, and volunteering ing that by virtue of our programs, we’re council. The Harrisburg Diocesan Council ing world,” explained Bonnie Onomastico, with the Red Cross. drawing people closer to God or enriching of Catholic Women was established on May current president of the Harrisburg Dioc- The ladies petitioned legislators to sup- them spiritually.” esan Council of Catholic Women. 6, 1924. Miss Dill Gamble was elected its port group homes for women, pensions for Mrs. Kulp and Joyce Scott, Chair of the first president. blind people, and state aid for hospitals. Diocesan Scholarship Committee, are two Foundations The diocesan council quickly set to work, And they continued to grow in faith, taking of the founding members of the CCW at St. In March 1920, at the encouragement of hosting its first conference in October 1924 part in diocesan Masses and retreats, and Katharine Drexel Parish in Mechanicsburg. embarking on pilgrimages. “Forming the council there was very ful- “I remember a pilgrimage to Mount St. filling because everything was a first,” Mrs. Mary’s before there were good paths and Scott said. “Anything that was held at the places to sit,” Marian Sneeringer, a mem- church, we were involved in.” ber of the CCW since 1952, recalled of the They recall the first parish picnic, the first trip to the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes in Christmas celebration, and the challenges Emmitsburg, Md. “We climbed that moun- of finding working appliances for social tain in our dresses, heels, hats and gloves.” events. They also recall how they came to- “You can belong to a lot of women’s or- gether as a group. ganizations, but you don’t get the spiritual “Being a new parish and a young parish, development like we do in the Council of a lot of the women really weren’t aware of Catholic Women,” said Mrs. Sneeringer, a what CCW does. Fortunately, there were former president of the diocesan council. some who had been previously involved in CCW, and it was through their mentoring rolling with the Changes that we got it going,” Mrs. Kulp said. The principles of the Council of Catholic Ladies who are interested in joining a Women have remained constant these past council can do so at their parish (or via a nine decades as members have embraced neighboring parish if their parish does not new approaches in addressing needs and have one) or by becoming an individual serving the greater good of the Church. member of the National Council of Catho- “Our commitment to the faith, the human lic Women. See the accompanying box for dignity and to women and children has not information. changed. But we change in order to focus “Our strength is that we are women dedi- on where those needs are,” noted Helen La- cated to the Church, to our parishes and gasse, Diocesan Chair of the Church Com- to each other, and we really want to help mission. each other grow spiritually in every way,” PHOTO COURTESY OF THE DIOCESAN ARCHIVES “We are concerned not only about lo- Mrs. Sneeringer said. “We’re always going Ladies of the Harrisburg Diocesan Council of Catholic Women gather with cal issues but about worldwide issues as to have those basic focuses, regardless of diocesan priests for their annual convention in Lancaster, circa 1952. well,” said Stella Kulp, Diocesan Chair of whatever else we do.”

Join the Council of Catholic Women Save the Date Ladies can become a member of the Council of Catholic Women by joining the th organization in their parish, or in a neighboring parish if their parish does not have 86 Annual HDCCW Convention one. Women can also become individual members of the National Council of Catho- lic Women. May 2 at the Cardinal Keeler Center in Harrisburg Find contact information for the Harrisburg Diocesan Council of Catholic Women The day will include a keynote address, a Mass concelebrated by the priests of by visiting the “Catholic Organizations” link at www.hbgdiocese.org or by contact- the diocese, lunch, an afternoon workshop on the theme of the convention, “Spiri- ing HDCCW President Bonnie Onomastico at 717-352-3514 or vonomastico@ tuality, Service and Leadership,” and a closing prayer service. There will also be comcast.net. exhibits, Fair Trade and religious items for purchase, collections and raffles. Learn more about the National Council of Catholic Women by visiting their Web Additional information will be available from your parish Council of Catholic site at www.nccw.org. women and The Catholic Witness.  - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, February 25, 2011

Catholic Culture

Collection THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, EMILY M. ALBERT Continued from 1 Mother Maria Kaupas’ items on display at the St. Pauline Center include a Missal in English and Latin (top It is this key factor in history that roots Mother left), a cord that she wore as part of her habit (top) and a rosary (below). Maria to the coal region, and brings her belongings to the St. Pauline Center in Kulpmont. Sister Maria, declared Venerable Mother Maria Kaupas on July 1, 2010, continued her pursuit to educate in faith across the world. She returned to her homeland by the re- quest of the Lithuanian bishops and later traveled to to staff schools before her death on April 17, 1940, leaving a long road of legacy. Father Raymond Orloski, a retired priest of the Diocese of Harrisburg, and Bob Greco of the St. Pau- line Center decided what better way to continue her legacy and prayers for sainthood than to bring some of her belongings back to the community where she walked the roads and began her quest of Lithuanian education. “I felt it important the center be set aside to make known the cause of Venerable Mother, since she walked the streets and cared for the children of the Lithuanian immigrants,” Father Orloski said. The center is located at 1150 Chestnut Street in Kulmpont, and visitors can see personal items from Mother Maria that include a blue cord she wore with her vestments, a book, “Fevorinus from Galilee’s Hill,” an amber rosary and cross given to Mother Maria by the Lithuanian Sisters of St. Casimir, and a Roman missal in Latin and English given as a gift on the occasion of the religious order’s silver jubilee in 1932. There are also several paintings donated by her order, which were all painted by one of the Sisters of St. Casimir, Sister Kathleen Smith. Mother Maria’s personal belongings are the most recent addition of artifacts; other collections visitors may view include the relics of St. Pauline, found- ress of the Congregation of the Little Sisters of the Immaculate Conception in Brazil and patron saint of diabetics; and the Papal Zucchetto worn by Pope John Paul II, presented to Father Orloski on Dec. 22, St. Pauline Center Plans Camp 2004. The center also houses pieces of the coal region’s spiritual history, as well as a chapel for adoration Fri- for Children with Diabetes day evening through Saturday evening every week. Children who have been diagnosed with diabetes are invited to attend Camp Pauline in Kulpmont this Father Orloski describes the center as a place for summer. The day camp is a ministry of the Mother Pauline Visintainer Religious Foundation. spiritual and physical well being, as its hosts blood The camp will provide children with juvenile diabetes an opportunity to meet and interact with one drives, health seminars from local hospitals, and pre- another, and will provide information on diabetes nutrition, lifestyle and presentations by health care sentations on diabetes and cancer. professionals. “Sometimes people have an aversion to going to Camp Pauline is located on the grounds of the St. Pauline Complex in Kulpmont. It will be staffed by the hospital for such lectures or seminars; they feel experienced health care professionals. While children participate in activities, adults can attend diabetes more relaxed at the center,” he said. awareness sessions. Staff will work with parents to obtain funding through private resources or via dona- He and the rest of the people involved in the Mother tions and scholarships. Pauline Religious Foundation welcome visitors from The day camp will be offered June 6-10, July 11-15 and Aug. 8-12. Children and adults can attend more all over, whether it be to attend a seminar or to regain than one day. a touch of history. For a detailed brochure about the camp, or to make reservations, call 570-373-3350 or e-mail info@ Information about the Mother Pauline Religious saintpaulinecenter.org. Information about the Mother Pauline Visintainer Religious Foundation can be Foundation and the St. Pauline Center can be found found at www.saintpaulinecenter.org. at www.saintpaulinecenter.org. February 25, 2011, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 

Faith and Life

FromHot WHeels to Holy Orders: New Freedom Native Trades Show Car for Religious Vocation

By Jen Reed “We experienced what I say is the power The Catholic Witness of the Holy Spirit. I knew in an instant how much God loved me,” he said. “I wasn’t Fifteen years ago, Joshua Zeller was sink- looking for God that night; he was looking ing a few thousand dollars a year into his for me. My heart was opened a little crack suped-up Honda CRX, working at a hard- when I was driving past St. John’s, and the ware store, attending parties, and maybe Lord invited me in.” going to Mass two or three times a year. The next morning, he realized it was Today, as Brother John Paul Mary of Di- time for his life to change. He began at- vine Mercy, the 34-year-old New Freedom tending Mass and was awakened to the real native is living the vows of poverty, chas- presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. He spent tity and obedience, and studying at Mount hours of prayer in the parish’s perpetual St. Mary’s Seminary for eventual priestly adoration chapel. He read the Bible and the ordination as a Franciscan Missionary of Catechism. the Eternal Word. In 1998, four years after high school His journey from a 20-something non- graduation, Joshua was accepted to attend practicing Catholic to a 30-something in DeVry University in Columbus, Ohio. Sev- a religious habit yields an extraordinary eral weeks before the start of the fall semes- story about the presence and power of God ter, he attended a men’s retreat at Mount St. – especially when it’s least expected. Mary’s with his grandfather. There, he met Growing up Catholic in New Freedom, Paul Clark (now Father Clark), who was young Joshua attended Mass every Sunday just getting ready to enter the seminary to with his parents and his brother. become a diocesan priest. The two became “Sunday Mass was just a part of our fast friends. life. Mom taught us to pray, and took “It was really the first time that I had us to CCD every week,” Brother John someone my age to talk with about the Paul Mary said. “Every time we went to faith,” Brother John Paul Mary said. “On Brother John Paul Mary of Divine Mercy rollerblades at a park in Bir- that retreat, we talked about the Eucharist, PHOTOS COURTESY OF BROTHER JOHN PAUL MARY Mass, my mom would tell me how im- mingham, Ala. portant it was to receive Communion.” the Blessed Mother, the Church. We were But after he was confirmed in eighth up at the grotto and Paul asked me if I grade, Joshua’s attendance at Mass began thought I might be called to the priesthood. to dwindle. By the time he was in high It threw me back, and then it ignited a fire school, practicing the faith took a back seat and a curiosity in my heart.” to his interest in skateboards, roller rinks Joshua completed his studies at DeVry, and bikes. and as his classmates applied for jobs, he After high school graduation, he took a applied to become a seminarian for the Di- full-time at True Value Hardware. The ocese of Harrisburg. He was accepted and money he earned went straight to his “tro- went to the Pontifical College Josephinum phy on wheels:” a 1991 red Honda CRX. in Columbus in August 2000. For Joshua, life revolved around the car and showing it off at car shows from Con- Sweet Home alabama necticut to North Carolina. While in his second year at the semi- “The car became a sort of god, something nary, Joshua joined several classmates on that consumed my life,” he said. a semester-break retreat to the Shrine of “I was pumping $2,000-$3,000 a year the Most Blessed Sacrament and “EWTN into it. I’d be happy for six months because Land” in Alabama. Joshua’s experience of what I did with it – paint jobs, ground ef- with the Franciscan Missionaries of the fects, chrome wheels, a big motor,” he said. Eternal Word was his first real look at a re- “My goal was to have a car that not only ligious order, and it caught his attention. young people would gawk at, but that 60- “I felt a peace there with the friars, see- year-old street rodders would turn to see. It ing their joy and enthusiasm. I felt it was was all about ego, all about ‘Look at me.’” something I wanted, and I had a sense that But one encounter with the Lord would I was at home there,” he remarked. change all that, literally overnight. The following summer, he returned to Alabama to spend a month with the fri- ‘I Knew in an Instant’ ars. It was during his final year of college Brother John Paul can recall nearly every seminary in 2004 that he decided to join the Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal detail of what he refers to as his conversion Brother John Paul Mary of Divine Mercy shares a moment with Mother An- experience. Word. gelica, who founded the Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word in “You hear stories of people coming back “It wasn’t an easy decision to leave the to the faith gradually. Mine was instanta- diocese,” he said, “but I was drawn to this 1987. neous,” he said. simplicity of life.” After watching with a group of friends as The charism of the order – founded by the Orioles and Yankees squared off in an Mother Angelica – is to evangelize through Oct. 15, 1997, playoff game on TV, Josh- modern means of the media. Reaching out ua and a friend both felt an urge to get in to fallen-away Catholics and offering hope the Honda and leave the party. As the two to the suffering are among their focuses. headed home, Joshua unexpectedly pulled Brother John Paul Mary made his first the car to the side of the road in front of St. profession on Aug. 2, 2006, and professed Church. He didn’t know perpetual vows on Aug. 14, 2010. His dia- why. conate ordination will be in May 2012, with “Here I was, 21 years old, not practic- priesthood ordination the following year. ing the faith, and I’m sitting in front of the When he looks at his path from fast cars church at 10 at night,” he recounted. “I to a religious habit, Brother John Paul Mary walked in and genuflected. I sat in a pew points out that “God calls ordinary men to and asked, ‘God, why am I here?’” lead extraordinary lives,” and that “every He doesn’t know how long the two of vocation requires sacrifice.” them sat in the church, but after awhile, “I saw the positive in giving myself up Joshua began to lead his friend – a non- for others. It was a great burden lifted off denominational Christian – in praying the my shoulders, because I knew that if the Hail Mary. Lord was calling me, he would give me “It was the first time in a long time that I the grace to live that vocation happily,” he prayed,” Brother John Paul Mary recalled. said. “For me, I had this desire to give up “No sooner did we finish that prayer that everything to follow the Lord Jesus.” there was this overwhelming sense that And that includes the suped-up Honda, someone was watching over us.” which he sold while he was in college sem- Joshua and his friend left St. John’s, but inary for half of what he invested in it. The red Honda CRX was a trophy for Joshua Zeller, who gave up all returned later that night and found God’s Friar brown suits him much better than his possessions to enter into religious life. presence to be even stronger. cherry red anyway.  - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, February 25, 2011

Local Church News

Benedictine Father John Peck, pastor of St. Parish in Annville, enlivens students as he meets with them on Vocations Day.

CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS St. Leo the Great School Continues Vocations Day Tradition

By Chris Heisey The Catholic Witness Ever since Ronald Reagan was president, the faithful at St. Leo the Great School, Rohrerstown, have been hosting a Vocations Day, which not only shows the parish’s com- mitment to promoting religious vocations, but also shows the vibrant spiritual life the parish has been able to foster for many years running. Bishop Joseph McFadden made a pasto- ral visit to the school during the day and he shared his unique, fascinating journey to his priestly vocation. “God calls us every day,” Bishop McFadden said. “He wants us to help build his kingdom…. I want you to tell the world about Jesus.” After the bishop spoke to the entire student Bishop Joseph body and faculty in the Father William Sul- McFadden inter- livan gymnasium – named in honor of the acts with students retired priest who served at St. Leo’s for 27 as they extend years as pastor – the bishop celebrated Holy him a warm wel- Mass in the church. Several priests from the come to St. Leo diocese and a number of visiting priests who the Great School. participated in the vocation day concelebrated Mass, and Father Peter Hahn, pastor, served as master of ceremonies. Prior to the bishop’s visit, the students heard from more than 15 visiting priests and sisters who visited each grade during the morning hours to discuss the importance of listening for God’s call. Later, the students and faculty participated in a creative trivia game exercise dubbed “Who wants to be a Catholic-Heir,” which pitted several grades against one an- other. The theme was “Doctors of the Church” which demanded the students recall factoids about the Church’s 33 saintly doctors. Father Hahn has spent the year teaching the students about these saints, including the 5th Century pontiff, St. Leo. The day-long Vocations Day was the first St. Francis Sister established in the diocese and according to Anna Cosgrave, from Our Lady of Alan Schwartz, the school’s development di- the Angels School rector, the day would not be possible without in Columbia, talks the faculty, and numerous volunteer efforts of to students about many of the parish’s faithful, who have given the apparition their time and talents for the past quarter of a of Our Lady of century. Knock in Ireland. February 25, 2011, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 

Catholic Sports Report Sports Commentary Coach and Me By Chris Heisey miles from campus I was invited to play a practice The Catholic Witness round that September night. I had no ride to the course but the man made me want to go. If I had waited an- or those of us who played sports in our youth, other day to go see him, I suspect my life would not Fwe had all types of coaches influence and af- be the same. fect our lives. No doubt you know a certain coach you I cut out of philosophy class early, grabbed my golf had years ago who was tough as nails and intimidated bag and made the 2.5 mile walk to the course. Shot 37 you. At the time, you dreaded their gruff demeanor on the backside of Conestoga Country Club and then and spiteful insults. It’s only human nature, but over hit some practice putts with some team members on the years you develop a certain mystical nostalgia that the green as the sun set on a perfect September day. numbs you to the past. What you remember, instead, That day in 1982 has always ranked as one of the is the great coach that gave you that needed push or best days of my life. Sure playing well helped, meeting prod at the right time. Discipline and toughness breed new friends was special, but I knew then that Coach true grit the old school says. Smart was a genuine person who I wanted to be asso- Of late, I have had the misfortune of being in the ciated with for the rest of my life. He never asked me company of seasoned people who harken back to the how I got to the course. It wasn’t important. good ole days when discipline was swift and just. For the past five Januarys, I have been blessed to Those days were good because kids feared the belt make the 1,100 mile trek to his retirement home near and the tongue lashing that came with the sting, so Tampa, Florida. We used to play golf all day and talk the story says. life just like the good old days. These days instead, I had my share of coaches who governed the old we photograph birds in swamps and in seaside links fashioned way. I thought them tyrants then and no that challenge the photographer to see anew. He loves amount of nostalgia is going to numb me to feel good birds, he loves learning photography, and it’s so much now. I’ll never forget my sixth grade public school the joy to teach him my craft which I have worked at English teacher who was also my baseball coach lat- since graduating 25 years ago this year. er, beat a kid named Daryl with a paddle three times And while I learned the game of golf from Coach, across his rear for stealing something petty out of a I learned much more. Like how you treat people, and school locker. It was 1976, our nation’s bicentennial, that tough has nothing to do with gruff. He taught me and I remember it as if it were yesterday when Daryl how to be a life-long learner and that I matter. Sure I was made to pull his pants down in front of the whole can shoot in the 60s in golf, but I learned from him class for three mighty swats. Still hear the crack and that it’s no different than shooting 80. You go to work scream. Often wonder where Daryl is these days. every day and work no matter your score. While play- Just saw that teacher in the doctor’s office a few ing tournament golf, he taught me how to be a focused weeks ago as I was sitting with my infirmed dad wait- photographer who sees opportunity, not obstacle. Golf ing for an appointment. That teacher and coach did was the vehicle to teach me more important things. not remember me and understandably so, as I was just One time just after I was named captain, Coach a pee-wee back then. But I surely do not forget him. needed a package dropped off in Lancaster. That gruff and tough stuff never gave me true grit or “Take my car,” he said. It was a ’72 Dodge Colt, rosy memories of the good old days either. He seems manual transmission with a rusted out floor board. happy in the winter of his life. Fred Flintstone would have been able to pedal the car Funny thing is just a few days later, I saw my ju- CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS nior high basketball coach buying a newspaper with with his feet. An American Alligator catches first light in Big Cypress Nature “Coach, I can’t drive stick,” I said. “Sure you can, his grandson in a convenience store. Seems to have Preserve near Miami. mellowed in his old age and his role is more the dot- just use the clutch when you shift. Reverse sticks a ing grandpa rather than tough guy on the hardwood. little, but you’ll figure it out.” He did not recognize me either, as 35 years tends to Bucked and stalled my way all the way through fatten you up some. Sure do remember him because Lancaster city. Only once during the harrowing jour- you never forget getting drilled in the side of the head ney did I need a push to get my tail out of a fix. I just with a basketball when you’re not looking or getting about died of anxiety until I got back safely on cam- an elbow to the chin when you forgot to box out. pus. I knew I was going to die. I had a few other coaches who were idiots as well in Several days later, he asked me how it went. my young days growing up in small town Central PA. “Never doing that again, Coach” I said. I survived despite facing the stupid abuse and petty “Ahh,” he replied in his Yankee New England beliefs that breeds this behavior. Do me this favor, the drawl. “Sure you will. You already did it once so next next time you wax poetic or sing praise of the good time will be a piece of cake. The tough part is over.” old days, hit your head against the wall hard enough “Get a better car,” I quipped back. “Maybe then I’ll that it hurts. Helps you remember too. do it.” Good thing my story does not stop here. “I don’t need a better car, you need a better atti- In my first week at college, I met a man who changed tude.” my life. Though it took me days to get up the courage Just got back from Florida not long ago – drove to seek him out, I finally got the gumption and brav- 3,006 miles – chasing and photographing birds with ery required to talk to Millersville University’s golf a man I truly thank God for every day. When I came coach, Dr. Smart. back north driving through a harrowing ice storm from I wasn’t ready for a positive experience. Wonder seeing that old fashioned Yankee, I felt stress and fear why? I was welcomed in warm fashion, though my was real. But I made it home with my nostalgia intact skill set as a walk-on was hardly known. I was encour- and a better attitude once again. aged to attend practice. Though the course was two He knows how to coach.

This recent image of a Lowland Gorilla mother with her toddler at the National Zoo, Washington, D.C., was made possible by a valuable “golf” lesson taught to me by my coach nearly some 30 One of nature’s most elusive birds, a Green Heron, taken in Sweetwater Slough, Florida, a favorite years ago. The image won first prize in the 2010 Popular Pho- place to photograph for the both of us. tography International Photo Contest. 10 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, February 25, 2011

Faith and Life 50 Years of Religious Liberty Advocacy By Phil Murren, Esq. any religious school … without the consent of said restored the applicability of the “compelling state Special to The Witness school. interest” standard to actions by the Pennsylvania Religious liberty sustained an unexpected blow in government that placed a burden on religious lib- Congress shall make no law respecting an es- 1990 when its traditional guarantor – the U.S. Su- erty. tablishment of religion, or prohibiting the free ex- preme Court – severely devalued the Free Exercise PCC fought to preserve the right of religious lib- ercise thereof. Clause of the First Amendment. Until that time, the erty when it has been threatened in court actions These First Amendment words express the “wall Free Exercise Clause had been treated as the “first as well. PCC counsel successfully intervened in of separation between church and state” idea that of the First” in the realm of sacrosanct constitution- Thomas Jefferson penned in a letter to persecuted al values. The Supreme Court had described it as a court cases that sought to impose governmental Baptists in Connecticut in 1802. fundamental freedom that could only be encroached supervision of labor relations in church-schools. The freedom of religious entities and Church upon if the government had no other means of as- Another case attempted to apply laws that would members to practice their faith without undue gov- suring the achievement of a “compelling state inter- have outlawed the granting of religious preferenc- ernment interference is an essential element of the est.” es in admissions to church-schools. Yet another delicate church-state relationship. Yet the modern But in a case decided by a 5-4 majority, the Court case sought to prevent the application of religious trend is for government to continually insert itself held that the government does not need much of a standards to the conduct of church ministerial em- into all aspects of human endeavor, including those reason to burden the free exercise of religion. That ployees. PCC has also been successful in aiding historically the concern of churches. Church-state decision produced a storm of legislative activity dioceses from being overridden by the civil courts conflicts are the inevitable result of the expansion among religious liberty advocates across the nation, in critical areas such as the selection of clergy and of governmental authority and regulation. including here in Pennsylvania. the ordering of church property tenure. PCC has remained vigilant in its efforts to de- In 2002, PCC prevailed upon the legislature to ter governmental interference with the free exer- pass a law protecting religious freedom. The pro- New areas of concern are always manifesting cise of religion. For example, for over 40 of its 50 posed Religious Freedom Protection Act had strong themselves. PCC continually battles to preserve years, PCC has waged an ongoing struggle with bipartisan support from political leaders. In the State the rights of conscience of religious health care fa- the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Senate, the Republican President Pro Tem and the cilities and personnel in the areas of abortion and (DPW) over that agency’s determined attempts to Democratic Minority Leader were the primary spon- contraception services. Advocates for homosexual influence the curriculum and developmental goals sors of the bill. In the House of Representatives, the rights have been particularly active in advancing of the Church’s ministries to pre-school children. Republican Majority Whip and Democratic Minor- legislation that would outlaw discrimination on That struggle has flared in all three branches of ity Whip championed the legislation. the basis of sexual orientation and gender iden- government: legislative, executive (administrative The PCC ultimately achieved a legislative victory tity, without regard for the rights of conscience of agencies) and judicial. The ultimate outcome is with the Religious Freedom Protection Act, which still uncertain. churches, church agencies and church members. After closely observing the struggles in other PCC is ever mindful of the words of Thomas states between religious schools and government Jefferson; but James Madison, another founding education regulators, PCC and its allies worked father, in his famous Memorial and Remonstrance, to achieve the adoption of the Religious Schools warns us about the danger of government imposi- Act in 1986. That statute assured the freedom of tion on religion and the indefensibility of justify- religious schools to choose their own teachers and ing such impositions. He states authoritatively: curricula, a freedom that is still being fought for The Pennsylvania Catholic Conference (PCC), [I]t is proper to take alarm at the first experi- with respect to church pre-school programs. In the public affairs arm of Pennsylvania’s Catholic ment on our liberties. … The freemen of America a declaration that serves as a charter of religious bishops and the Catholic dioceses of Pennsylva- did not wait till usurped power had strengthened educational freedom, the 1986 statute stated: th nia, is celebrating its 50 anniversary. This article itself by exercise, and entangled the question in It is the policy of the Commonwealth to pre- is one of a series highlighting PCC’s interesting precedents. They saw all the consequences in the serve the primary right and the obligation of the history of Catholic advocacy in Harrisburg. To parent … of a child to choose the education and learn more about PCC’s 50th anniversary and principle, and they avoided the consequences by training for such child. Nothing contained in this other public policy issues, log on to the Pennsyl- denying the principle. act [i.e., the Public School Code] shall empower vania Catholic Conference Institute for Public (Murren is a partner in the Ball, Murren & Con- the Commonwealth … to approve the course con- Policy Web site at www.pacatholic.org. nell law firm, the Pennsylvania Catholic Confer- tent, faculty, staff or disciplinary requirements of ence legal counsel.)

Tending the “Inner Light” of Those with Alzheimer’s – A Panel Discussion A Program for Practitioners, Caregivers, Family Members of Loved Ones with Alzheimer’s The panelists and prayer leaders presenting this day recognize how much Saturday, March 19, 2011 Alzheimer’s touches not only the persons who live with it, but their families, caregivers, 9:45 AM - 3:00 PM $40.00 offering practitioners, support staff, chaplains, and spiritual directors who do their best to tend to the “Inner Light” of these loved persons. Panelists: The content of this day will include presentations by experienced panelists on Validation Therapies, Spiritual Care, a Caregiver’s Personal Experience, and Self-Care for Caregivers. There will be time for reflection and one-to-one conversations with the presenters and prayer leaders. Intermittent prayers will weave together the threads of “Praying from Darkness into Light,” and unite the fabric of the day’s Prayer Leaders: presentations into a seamless garment of Light, Care, and Love.

Marlane Paruso Sister Rosaline Lois Landis Sister Jean Register online at Remotivation Drab, SS.C.M. Miller Marie, SS.C.M. and Validation Pastoral Spiritual Spiritual www.sscm.org or Presenter Minister Director Director call 570-275-3581. Deadline to register: Saint Cyril Spiritual Center March 11, 2011 Joan Liebler Judith Bayer Villa Sacred Heart, Danville PA 17821 Spiritual Directors February 25, 2011, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 11

Local Church News

The names of the following deceased MeCHaNICSburG – St. Elizabeth persons have been submitted by their Ann Seton: Duane Plever; St. Joseph: George parishes: E. Myers, Sabella; St. Katharine abbOTTSTOWN – Immaculate Heart Drexel: Robert Jones. of Mary: Mary Altland, John Zill. MIDDLeTOWN – Seven Sorrows Pro-Life retreat Planned at St. bernard Parish berWICK – Immaculate Conception BVM: Stephen J. Markus, John Stoner, Sr. The Council of Catholic Women and Knights of Columbus of St. Bernard BVM: Jennie Blanke, Nicholas Episcopo, Parish in New Bloomfield will host a One-Day Pro-Life Retreat at the parish on Camillo Melchiorre, Jr., Barry Zeares. MOuNT CarMeL – Divine Redeemer: Mary Vezo. March 12. The day will begin at 8 a.m. with registration, Morning Prayer and bLue rIDGe SuMMIT – St. Rita: a Mass for Life. Guest speakers include Father Paul Schenck, Director of the James Princehouse. NeW CuMberLaND – St. Theresa: Diocesan Office of Respect Life and founding director of the National Pro-Life Shirley Acri, Edward Bianco. Action Center on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.; Julie Shuyler, Chairwom- CaMP HILL – Good Shepherd: Natalie Klee, J. Thomas O’Connor. NeW FreeDOM – St. John the an of the Religion Department and Respect Life Club Moderator at Lebanon Baptist: Vincent Bisker, Jane Helfrich, Catholic School; and John Gordon, Chairman of Teachers Saving Children® CHaMberSburG – Corpus Christi: Dorothy McDuff, Mary Semenik, Sophie of Pennsylvania and a Middletown Area School District teacher. The cost to at- Theodore J. Foose, Patricia Eunice Gohl, Tracey. tend is $10, which will include a box lunch. Register no later than March 5. To James Thomas Henry, Douglas Wagner. register for the day, contact Mary Blair at 717-582-7662 or [email protected]. NeW OXFOrD – Immaculate COaL TOWNSHIP – Our Lady of Hope: Sylvia Chapleski, Dolores Demas. Conception BVM: Teresa Beard, Marian Wisner. Hour of Contemplative Prayer to be COLuMbIa – St. Peter: Edward J. Flanagan, Sr., Cleta Gambler, Joan Murray. PaLMyra – Holy Spirit: Joseph Winter. Held at Dominican Monastery CONeWaGO – Sacred Haert: rOarING CreeK – Our Lady of In celebration of the Lenten season, an hour of contemplative prayer on the M. Funk, Sarah A. Todt. Mercy: Leonard Butela, Fred Whitenight theme “Carrying My Cross with Jesus” will be held March 16 starting at 10:45 a.m. and concluding with Mid-day prayer at 12:10 p.m. at the Monastery of the DaLLaSTOWN – St. Joseph: Lois A. SeLINSGrOVe – St. Pius X: Maryann Anderson, Darryel L. Behrensen. Thomas. Dominican Nuns of the Perpetual Rosary, on Lititz Pike in Lancaster. Participants will be invited to reflect on the words of Jesus, “My God, My DaNVILLe – St. Joseph: Doris Orr, SHaMOKIN – Mother Cabrini: Louis God,” as He carried his cross, and then in turn reflect on their responses to the Louise Reidinger. Bartos, John Mazer, Frank Pufnock, Florence crosses in their own lives. The presentation also will draw from the thought of Searls, Mary Vezo. eLIZabeTHTOWN – St. Peter: Blessed Theresa of Calcutta, Blessed Pope John Paul II, St. Theresa of Avila, Manuel Olives, MD. SPrING GrOVe – Sacred Heart of Henri Nouwen, and Joseph Cardinal Bernadin. A replica of the Holy Shroud of Christ will be available to deepen the participants’ experience. FaIrFIeLD – Immaculate Conception Jesus: Frank DeCello. BVM: Thelma Johnson. Sister Maria DeMonte, OP, MDiv, will be the presenter. Sister Maria is a Do- STeeLTON – Prince of Peace: Raymond minican Sister of the Congregation of St. Catherine de’Ricci. Presently she min- GeTTySburG – St. : Hilinski, Adaline T. Intreri. isters as a spiritual Deacon James Sneeringer. yOrK – Immaculate Conception BVM: director, retreat HaNOVer – St. Joseph: Elizabeth Grace Sarah Chambers; St. : Charles guide, and leads Brigham, James Stover. Sabold. contemplative HarrISburG – Cathedral Parish of St. prayer mornings Patrick: Shirley Wolfe; St. Catherine Labouré: at the Domini- Raymond Breach, Clement Leo, John Natale. can Monastery. Contemplative HerSHey – St. : Charlotte Broome, Robert Martin, Dr. F. Patrick harp music will Tierney. Please pray for the following clergy who died be provided by in March during the past 25 years: Cass Jendzur- KuLPMONT – Holy Angels: Ceil Father James Byrne, 1988 ski, a therapeutic Chadwick, Helen Geslock, Helen Kitt, Anna Father Joseph Zednowicz, 1989 Politza. musician and the Deacon William Smith, 1994 founder and direc- LaNCaSTer – Assumption BVM:; St. Father Stephen Jordan, 1994 tor for Songs for Anne:. Franciscan Father Gerald Kedziora, 2002 the Journey, a Lancaster-based volunteer organization that provides music at the Bishop Nicholas C. Dattilo, 2004 LebaNON – Assumption BVM: Father Robert Grzybowski, OFM Conv., 2007 bedsides of those passing from life into death. She is a member of the Fraternity Arnold, Gerald Hartnett, Mary Meluskey, Deacon J. Leo Dunn, 2007 of St. Dominic. Marguerite Pyles, Judith Weirich, Alice Marie The morning of prayer is open to women and men of all faiths. A free-will of- White. Abbot John Neitzel, O. Praem, 2008 Father Lawrence Gross, 2009 fering is requested. Registration is required. To register or for more information, MarySVILLe – Our Lady of Good Father John Greaney, 2009 contact Sister Maria at 717-285-4536, ext. 717, or [email protected]. Counsel: Anna Scholl. St. Joan of arc Parish Launches youTube Site of St. Patrick Parish in York, who knew St. Joan of Arch Parish recently launched a YouTube site at www.youtube. Father Conrad Father Conrad from the time the two en- com/SJAHershey. The first video program is a seven-part series of videos tered the diocese’s seminarian program in Continued from 1 from “Scenes from Christmas Eve Mass – St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church 1968. – Hershey, PA.” In his years of service to the diocese, As young priests, Father Houser and Father Philip G. Burger, pastor, was the celebrant of the Mass that is avail- Father Conrad was assistant pastor at Father Conrad served together at St. The- able online. Assisting at Mass were: Father Chukwubikem Okpechi, O.P. and St. Theresa Parish in New Cumberland resa Parish in New Cumberland from Deacon Rodrique Mortel, M.D. Beth Palmer, Director of Music Ministry, was (1976-1980) and at St. John Neumann 1979-1980. organist. The St. Joan of Arc Parish Choir and Orchestral Ensemble provided Parish in Lancaster (1980-1981). He “When we were together there, he put singing and instrumental music. Video recording, editing and computer adap- then served as assistant to the principal in a lot of hours. He would spend time tation was made by Bill Parks. at Bishop McDevitt High School (1981- with people, and be there for them in their A variety of Christmas Carols were sung and a variety of instruments were 1982), and as principal at Lebanon Catho- time of need,” Father Houser said. “He played during parts of the Christmas Eve Mass in an attractively decorated lic High School (1982-1986) and Trinity was so patient in that regard, in respond- church which featured a nativity scene of Christ’s birth. Visit the video site at High School in Camp Hill (1986-1991). ing to people.” www.youtube.com/SJAHershey. Father Conrad served as parochial vicar “He had a calming effect on people,” he at St. Parish in Millers- said. “He could listen attentively and pa- ville (1991-1992), and as pastor of Sacred tiently, and could offer good direction to CCW Member Celebrates 90th birthday Heart of Jesus Parish in Cornwall (1992- people because of that.” Mary Sponseller has been a member of St. Joseph Parish since 1940 and 1995) and St. Joseph the Worker Parish in Father Conrad remained lighthearted is still active in many Church projects. In celebration of her 90th birthday Bonneauville (1995-1998). While serving and maintained a sense of humor even in on Feb. 7, Carolyn Sponseller suggested that members of the Parish Council at St. Joseph’s, he was also the Catholic the daily struggles of living with a termi- of Catholic Women do something to honor her mother-in-law. Members re- campus minister at Gettysburg College. nal illness, Father Houser pointed out. Father Conrad returned to St. Philip the “He was lighthearted about things, and sponded with a flood of birthday cards and a pink shawl made by a member Apostle Parish in 1998 and served as pas- was always very kind to those who cared of the CCW’s Prayer Shawl Ministry. As the shawl was wrapped around her tor there until the time of his illness. for him,” he said. shoulders, Mary said she was very touched at being chosen to receive it and “Brian was certainly hard working and The funeral Mass was celebrated Feb. that she felt all the love and prayers that it represented. She added that she’ll very conscientious and caring in his min- 18 by Bishop Joseph McFadden at St. be wearing it each day as she prays her rosary. istry,” said Father Houser, pastor Philip the Apostle Church in Millersville. 12 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, February 25, 2011

Young Church in Action

Come see the Final 8 CYO Girls and Boys Basketball Tournament! Prepare for Lancaster Catholic High School and Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology Holy Week Friday March 11 – Sunday March 13 Lenten retreat for boys and Girls Schedule as follows: ages 10-18 Friday March 11 @ Stevens Tech Girls games starting at 6,7,8,9 PM. Friday March 11 @ LCHS March 12 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Boys games starting at 6,7,8,9 PM St. Katharine Drexel Parish, Saturday March 12 @ LCHS Games at 9,10,11 AM and Noon. Mechanicsburg Games at 3,4,5,6,7,8 PM. This year’s theme is “The Battle of Lent, Putting on the Armor of Sunday March 13 @ LCHS God” Girls Consolation game at 1. Speakers will be priests, deacons and religious of the Diocese of Girls Championship game at 2:15. Harrisburg Boys Consolation game at 3:30. Boys Championship game at 4:45. The retreat is sponsored by St. Joseph Squires and Squirettes of Mary. Cost is $5 ($3 for Squires/Squirettes) You can see the best junior high basketball around. For more information, or to register by March 6, contact Michael You can eat some great food in the Dio Diner. Yakubick at 717-329-2725 or [email protected]. You can buy a great T-shirt ($10 on pre-order, $12 at the tournament). See logo above. Email [email protected] for details and an order form. Great entertainment for a great price. $3 for adults, $2 for students.

St. Catherine of Bologna 1413-1463 Feast Day March 9 As a girl, Catherine de’Vigri was a maid of honor at the ducal court in Ferrara, in Italy. Well educated at court, she joined a group of Fran- ciscan tertiaries who later became Poor Clare nuns. In 1456, she went back to Bologna as abbess of a new convent. From an early age, she had experienced visions, some of which she judged to be tempta- tions. But, she effectively led her convent, while also exploring a talent for calligraphy and painting miniatures. Her Bologna convent still has a breviary she penned and ornamented, along with some of her unpublished writings in prose and verse. (CNS SAINTS)

brOTHer aWarD tive year. The Corps d’Elite award is similar to the star council award for the Knights of Columbus and The St. Joseph Columbian Squire Circle 5102, is non-competitive based on fulfilling all Supreme sponsored by the Knights of Columbus St. Joseph requirements. The Squires of St/ Joseph Circle 5102 Council #12788 of Mechanicsburg, has earned the consist of boys and young men between the ages of MuSICaL aDVaNCeMeNT Brother Barnabas Award for the fraternal year 2009- 10 and 18 and are members of the following parishes: 2010. The Brother Barnabas Award is an internation- Joseph Laucks, a senior at York Catholic High St. Joseph and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Mechanics- al competitive award bestowed on 25 Circles of the burg, Good Shepherd in Camp Hill and St. Theresa in School, was chosen by audition to participate in 1,477 Circles worldwide by the Knight’s Supreme New Cumberland. the Lower District 7 Pennsylvania Music Educators Council in New Haven, Conn. The Brother Barnabas Association (PMEA) Region 5 State Band Festival Award was presented to the Squires by Father Ches- aNNa DILL GaMbLe/SuSaN scheduled for March 24 -26 at North Schuylkill High ter Snyder, pastor, following a recent Mass. WaGMaN GLaTFeLTer School in Ashland. The Circle event that won the competition was Laucks was one of only six alto saxophone play- working with FertilityCare Practitioners of Holy SCHOLarSHIP ers chosen from the 15-county region, which encom- Spirit Hospital who are all trained in the Creighton The Catholic Woman’s Club of York is seeking ap- passes eastern and central portions of Pennsylvania. Model of NFP and held their International Conven- plicants for its annual scholarships. Applicants should Laucks participates in the York Catholic Marching tion in Harrisburg. The Circle’s fundraising helped be Catholic girls graduating in 2011 from a York Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band and Pit Orchestra. In make the event a success. From the Squires’ perspec- County high school within the York Deanery. A strong addition, he plays in the St. Joseph Catholic Church tive, the true award was at the close of the conven- commitment to the Catholic faith, a good academic re- Youth Band, Red Lion-Felton Band, Unforgettable tion: Squires from Circle 5102 were altar servers for cord, financial need and the pursuit of a baccalaureate Big Band, and the Dockenspeilers German Band. the Mass celebrated by Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades. degree are the qualifications being sought. Applica- Laucks currently studies saxophone with Charles St. Joseph Circle 5102 is the only circle in the tion forms are available at your high school guidance Schumann, and has also previously studied with Al- state of Pennsylvania to receive the award in 2010. office or by calling CWC Scholarship Chairperson foster Johnson. He is the son of Samuel and Jeanne The Squires of St. Joseph Circle 5102 were award- Mary Anne Burnside at 717-840-7857. The deadline Laucks of Dallastown. ed the Corps d’Elite award for the second consecu- for completed applications is March 31. February 25, 2011, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 13

Choice of coffee, tea or orange drink. Bring your own container for carry-outs. Bishop McDevitt High School in Harrisburg will host an 8th Grade Parent Information Night March 8 at 7 p.m. There Compiled by Jen Reed at the Cardinal Keeler Center in Harrisburg. 9 am - noon at the will be information on the admission process, freshmen course Cardinal Keeler Center. Speaker is John F. Brehany, Ph.D., S.T.L. selection, financial aid and tuition, and an overview of freshmen Spiritual Offerings Executive Director and Ethicist, Catholic Medical Association, spiritual obligations, discipline expectations, guidance information Mass in the Croatian language will be celebrated Feb. 27 at and he will speak “Conscience, Healthcare and the CMA.” The and sports opportunities. For information, contact Jill Hanes at 12:30 p.m. at Prince of Peace—Assumption of the Blessed Virgin morning includes Mass, confessions, adoration and refreshments. 717-236-7973, ext. 21, or [email protected]. Mary Church in Steelton. The Croatian Mass for March is sched- RSVP to [email protected] or visit www.Harris- Trinity High School in Camp Hill will hold freshman registra- uled for March 27 at 12:30 p.m. burgCMA.com. A free-will offering will be accepted. tion for the 2011-2012 school year March 8 and 9 from 1-6 p.m. Mass with prayers for healing will be celebrated at St. The- A Lenten Day of Prayer will be held at Holy Angels Church and by appointment thereafter. Contact the school office at 717- resa Church in New Cumberland March 1 at 7:30 p.m. by Father in Kulpmont March 20 at 1:30 p.m. with Father Andrew Stahmer 761-1116, ext. 111. William Forrey. The Mass is sponsored by the Pilgrims of Praise officiating. Services will conclude with a meal provided by the Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish in Marysville will host its and Life in the Spirit prayer groups. Call Mary Ann at 717-564- Women’s Council. Deadline for meal reservations is March Spring Spaghetti Dinner March 10 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 4-7 7709 for information. 13. For information or reservations, contact Elaine Jurgill at 570- p.m. Dinners cost $6 and include dessert. Children 6 and under St. Theresa Council of Catholic Women in New Cumberland 339-5557. This event is sponsored by the Northumberland District eat free. Take outs available. Our raffle which benefits the Reitzi will host an Ecumenical World Day of Prayer Service March 4 at 10 Council of Catholic Women. Scholarship fund is a hand made-queen size quilt. $2 a chance a.m. in the parish’s Little Flower Social Hall. The program, “How St. Joseph Parish in York is providing an internet safety or 6 chances for $10. To purchase chances or view the quilt in Many Loaves Have You?” was written by the women of seminar for all interested persons March 22 from 7-9 p.m. The advance, stop in any Saturday evening after 4 p.m. Mass in the Chile. A free-will offering will be taken up for families in need world- seminar will focus on “Supporting a Positive Online Presence” for social hall. For directions to the church, call 717-957-2662. wide. Come early and join us as we continue with our monthly First children/students. Topics include Facebook, YouTube, and tools Lebanon Catholic School will host a preschool story hour in Friday Devotion to the Sacred Heart by attending the 8:45 a.m. for internet filtering and history, and ways to “unplug.” Information the library from 12:30-1:30 p.m. March 10. Stories, games, crafts Mass. For information, contact Kathy Kokoski at 717-766-1272. can be found at http://www.sjy.org/it/safety and attendees should and snacks for children 3-4 years of age. Call the school at 717- St. Peter Church in Elizabethtown will host a Mass with RSVP by emailing [email protected]. 273-3731 to register by March 8. prayers for healing March 7 at 7 p.m. at the new church. Celebrant Delone Catholic High School in McSherrystown will have will be Father Dwight Schlaline, parochial vicar at St Patrick Parish Fish Dinners placement testing for freshmen entering in the 2011-12 school in Carlisle. Childcare and transportation available – notify the The Knights of Columbus of St. Jude Thaddeus Parish year. All incoming ninth graders must take the test on March 12 church at 717-367-1255. in Mifflintown will serve its annual Lenten Fish Dinners in the or April 16 at Delone Catholic. Testing will be conducted from A pro-life Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of the Blessed church hall on Fridays from 4-7 p.m. March 4-April 15. All-you- 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Any eighth grader who attends a Catholic school Sacrament Church in Harrisburg March 12 at 9 a.m. Father Kevin can-eat fried and baked fish, popcorn shrimp, fried clams, French outside the deanery, a public school, home school or other school Thompson, OFM Cap , pastor of St. Parish in fries, macaroni and cheese, stewed tomatoes, corn, green beans, needs to make arrangements to take the test. For information, or Harrisburg, will be the celebrant. coleslaw, applesauce, rolls, puddings, and desserts. $10 for to register, contact Sister Maria Jude, CSJ, at 717-637-5969, ext. A Healing Mass in the Spanish language will be celebrated at adults and $6 for children 6-12. 217, or [email protected]. Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Cornwall March 13 at 3 p.m. St. Peter Parish in Columbia, will hold its Lenten Friday Fish Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in A pro-life Mass in the Extraordinary form (Traditional Fry on Fridays March 11-April 15 from 4-6:30 p.m. Fish platters Middletown is holding its annual ’s Day Dance Latin) will be celebrated by Father Frank Parrinello, FSSP, at including baked haddock, oysters, scallops, crab cakes and other March 12 from 8 p.m.-midnight in the school gym. Entertainment St. Lawrence Chapel in Harrisburg March 19 at 9 a.m. Following dishes prepared by the women of the parish. Desserts available. by Class Act featuring Rita. Food, adult beverages, and soda Mass, Father Parrinello will lead us in prayers in front of Hillcrest Eat in or take out. Stations of the Cross are held in the Church at included in the $25 ticket price. BYOB. For information or tickets, clinic. Breakfast afterward. Everyone is welcome. Contact info@ 7 p.m. call 717-944-7494 or 717-944-2340. hbglatinMass.com. Our Lady of Hope Parish in Coal Township will host a crab St. Francis Xavier Parish in Gettysburg will host its monthly St. Theresa Parish in New Cumberland will conduct a Parish cake dinner March 11 from 4-6 p.m. in the parish hall. Cost is $8 breakfast March 13 from 7:30-11 a.m. Pancakes, French Mission March 20-22 at 7 p.m. The speaker is Father Leo Patal- for adults, $4 for children. Two crab cakes, potatoes, cole slaw, toast, apple fritters, eggs, sausage, fruit cup, juices and coffee. inghug, Director of Pastoral Field Education at Mount St. Mary’s dinner roll and dessert. Eat in or take out. Tickets available at Adults $6, seniors (over 60) and children (6-12) $4, children Seminary in Emmitsburg, Md., and an ordained priest for the the church and at weekend Masses. Donations of baked goods under 6 free. Archdiocese of Baltimore. He is the host to his Grace Before Meals accepted the day of the dinner. An International Food Festival will be held at Lebanon TV show on cable in the Baltimore area. Father Leo’s books and St. Theresa Knights of Columbus will hold their Lenten Fish Catholic School March 13 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sample foods other items from his Grace Before Meals show will be available Fry March 11 at St. Theresa School in New Cumberland from 5-8 from Greece, France, Italy, Puerto Rico, as well as, Slovak and for purchase following the services each evening, and he will be p.m. All-you-can-eat beer batter cod fillet, baked potato, cole slaw, Mexican dishes. Eat in or take out. Tickets are available in $ 5 available to sign anything purchased. For information, email Brian roll, coffee is $8 for adults. Children under 12, fish and French booklets. Call 717-273-3731 ext. 322, or visit www.lebanoncatho- Wayne at [email protected]. fries in a basket (not all-you-can-eat) is $5. Desserts, beverages licschool.org. and milkshakes ala-carte. For tickets or information, contact Tony Lebanon Catholic School will host an open house for pro- Retreats & Pilgrimages Miller at 717-938-6645. spective families for grades PreK-12 March 17 from 6-7:30 p.m. St. Philip the Apostle Parish in Millersville is holding a Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Enola will hold baked fish din- Tour the school, meet administrative staff and discuss curriculum. Lent retreat “Change Our Hearts,” March 14. Sessions will be ners on March 11 and 18, and April 1 and 8 from 4-7 p.m. in the Register by calling 717-273-3731, ext. 312. Children who will be from 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. with lunch; and 6:30-9:30 p.m. with light parish hall. Eat in or take out. Cost is $9 for adults, $5 for children. four years old before Sept. 1, 2011, are eligible to enroll in the snacks. Cost is $8 for the day session and $5 for the evening Salad, baked cod, vegetables, macaroni and cheese, dinner roll, preschool program. Children who will be five years old before session. Contact Christine M. Miller at 717-872-2166 or cmiller@ dessert and beverage. Sept. 1, 2011, are eligible to enroll in the kindergarten program. hbgdiocese.org for information. Register by March 7. Lebanon Catholic School will offer a scholarship application St. Columba Parish’s Travel Committee is planning a trip for Events & Fund-Raisers workshop March 17 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Bi-lingual assistance summer 2011 titled “Monuments and Parks” that will run from July York Catholic High School presents the Spring Musical, will be provided for families who have questions on the vari- 30-Aug. 6. Tour will start in Salt Lake City and feature Jackson, “Willy Wonka,” Feb. 25 at 7 p.m., Feb. 26 at 7 p.m., and Feb. 27 ous scholarship application forms offered by LC. The Bishop Cody, Sheridan, Rapid City, and Deadwood, the Grand Teton and at 2 p.m. in the high school auditorium. Tickets are $8 for adults, Neumann Scholarship must be postmarked by March 31. The Yellowstone National Parks, a train ride on the Black Hills Central $6 for senior citizens, and $6 for students and children. workshop is free; register by calling 717-273-3731, ext. 312. St. Philip the Parish in Millersville is holding a spaghetti din- Railroad and more. Contact Pat Weinhofer at 570-784-2230 or Comedians from Comedy Blast, Inc. will perform March 19 John Kashi at 570-437-9081 for more information. ner Feb. 27 from 12:30-4:30 p.m. Cost is $7 for adults and at 7:30 p.m. at York Catholic High School. Cost of $35 includes Pilgrimage to Fatima, Lourdes & Barcelona – Join Sister $4 for children ages 3-12. There will also be a gift basket raffle. admission and refreshments. A limited number of reserved tables Proceeds benefit the youth and adults going to Mary Anne Bednar, IHM, principal of Bishop McDevitt High School World Youth are available for $300 (includes 8 tickets). Call 717-846-8871 . For information, contact Christine Miller at 717-872-2166 or in Harrisburg, on a 9-day pilgrimage Oct. 17-25, 2011. Mass cele- Day x51. Only those over 21 will be admitted. [email protected]. brated daily. Highlights include Fatima, Aljustrel, Balinhos, Nazare, St. Joseph Parish in Hanover is sponsoring a Basket Bingo Resurrection Catholic School will hold a basket bingo Feb. Alcobaca Monastery, Cathedral of Burgos, Grotto of Massabielle, March 20 at 2 p.m. Lunch available for purchase. 20 filled 27 at 2 p.m. in the elementary cafeteria. Doors open at 1 p.m. for Holy Hill, Carcassone, Barcelona and La Sagrada Familia. Cost is baskets and 20 door prizes. For tickets, call the parish at 717- lunch and snacks. Tickets are $18 at the door. All proceeds will be $2,799 for a double. Trip details available at www.bishopmcdevitt. 637-5236. org or contact Kim Telgarsky of Telgarsky Travel at 717-545-0307. used to fund children’s field trips. Russ Rentler, award-winning singer/songwriter and multi- Trinity High School in Camp Hill will hold its Winter Concert instrumentalist will perform at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Education, Enrichment & Support Feb. 28 at 7 p.m. New Holland March 26 at 7 p.m. Rentler is a physician and has A free bereavement program will be offered by the Pastoral St. Leo the Great School in Rohrerstown will hold an open been going to Haiti for the past 15 years to provide medical care Care Department at Holy Spirit Hospital in Camp Hill beginning house for prospective families March 3 from 8:30-11 a.m. or 6:30- to the poorest nation in the Western hemisphere. All proceeds March 2 and running every Wednesday through April 6. Call Sister 8 p.m. Call ahead for the evening session. For updated tuition from a free-will offering at the concert will benefit Sts. Simon and Margaret Washington at 717-972-4255 or The Pastoral Care information, visit http://www.stleoschool.org/tuition_information. Jude Medical Clinic in Port-Au-Prince. Secretary at 717-763-2118 for registration and information. shtml. For more information, or to schedule a personalized tour, The Dauphin Deanery of the National Council of Catholic please call or email us at 717-392-2441 / secretary@stleoschool. Parishes & Organizations Women will present a Morning Day of Prayer March 5 at Holy org or 717-394-1742 / [email protected]. Mother Cabrini Parish in Shamokin is selling chocolate- Name of Jesus Church in Harrisburg, sponsored by the par- The Knights of Columbus of St. Richard Parish in Man- covered coconut cream and peanut butter eggs for $.70 each, $4 ish CCW. The day begins with Mass at 8:30 a.m. followed by heim will conduct their annual spaghetti dinner March 4 from a dozen and $8 a dozen. Eggs are available at the parish office breakfast. The speaker will be Dr. Hall, a former pastor of 4:30-8:30 p.m. Tickets are $8 for adult, $4 for children ages 4-10. Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. or can be ordered by calling the Elizabethtown Brethren in Christ Church, who converted to the Tickets available at the door. For information, call Rosemarie at 570-648-4512. Attention all Notre Dame fans: If projects like these interest Catholic Church. Cost is $10 per person. 717-665-1-2465. you: St. Patrick’s Day Parade float; assisting with homeless A reflection morning, “Hildegard, Catherine, Therese: Their The Saint Anne’s Retirement Community Auxiliary is meals/food drives; Habitat For Humanity project; football ticket Message for Us Now,” will be held at the St. Cyril Spiritual Center sponsoring a Spring Craft Show March 5 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. exchange program; football game watches; and many other in Danville March 12 from 9:45 a.m.-noon, presented by Sister at St. Anne’s Retirement Community in Columbia. Seasonal activities that promote camaraderie and community involvement, Bernadette Marie, SS.C.M. An offering of $20 is due by the regis- decorations, gift baskets, St. Anne’s Auxiliary Cookbooks and then join the Notre Dame Club of Harrisburg. Call Jack Wright tration deadline of March 4. Call 570-275-3581 or visit www.sscm. baked goods. Vendors will sell jewelry, crocheted items, cross at 717-732-8562 or download an application www.harrisburg. org and click on current events. stitch items, candles and antiques. Lunch of hot dogs, barbeque, undclub.org. St. Katharine Drexel Parish in Mechanicsburg will offer A vegetable soup, coffee, and cold drinks available. St. Patrick Parish in Carlisle is seeking someone for the Quick Journey through the Bible, part of the Great Adventure Bible The Music Under the Dome concert series continues with staff position of full-time Director of Music Ministries. Principal Timeline series. Sessions begin the week of March 13 and end an organ performance by Mark A. Cole at St. Lawrence Chapel duties include serving as organist for three Masses on weekends, holy day Masses and other liturgical celebrations, weddings and the week of May 15. Cost of the series is $17. For session times, March 6 at 4 p.m. A free-will offering will be taken at the door. funerals, directing and accompanying the Adult Traditional Choir, information and registration, contact Suzanne Bruzga at 717-697- St. Paul the Apostle Parish in Annville will host a Shrove parish children’s choir, school choir and handbell choir. Submit 8716 or [email protected]. Tuesday Spaghetti Dinner March 8, sponsored by the Council cover letter, resume and references by March 25 to: Saint Patrick The Harrisburg Diocesan Guild of the Catholic Medical As- of Catholic Women. Lunch is served from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., and Catholic Church, 152 East Pomfret Street, Carlisle, PA 17013 sociation (CMA) invites Catholic physicians and healthcare work- dinner from 4-7 p.m. Cost is $7.50 for large, $5.25 for small. Meal Attn: Very Reverend William C. Forrey, V. F., Pastor, or e-mail ers to a Lenten morning of reflection March 19 from 9 a.m.-noon includes spaghetti and meatball(s), salad, Italian bread, dessert, [email protected]. 14 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, February 25, 2011

World and National News USCCB Official Has Mixed Reaction to HHS Conscience Rule Revision

By Nancy Frazier O’Brien viders,” she said. “It also eliminates a rule “unacceptably impacted patient ments, named for former members of Catholic News Service regulatory requirement that recipients rights and restricted access to health Congress, have to be passed annually of federal funds certify compliance care and conflicted with federal law, as part of the appropriations bill for Although the U.S. bishops’ pro-life with those statutes. state law and other guidelines address- HHS and the departments of Labor spokeswoman expressed disappoint- “However, it is welcome news that ing informed consent,” HHS said. and Education. ment at the Obama administration’s the administration says it will take ini- Nearly 187,000 comments opposed In its final rule, HHS expressed con- partial rescission of a federal regula- tiatives to increase awareness of the the proposal to rescind, expressing the cern at the number of comments that tion protecting the conscience rights conscience statutes, work to ensure conviction that “health care workers reflected “a lack of understanding that of health care workers, she said there compliance with them, and require should not be required to perform pro- the statutory protections are in effect are “reasons for hope” in the new edu- that all government grants make clear cedures that violate their religious or irrespective of department regulations cation and outreach effort announced that compliance is required,” she add- moral convictions” or that rescission or the 2008 final rule.” by the Department of Health and Hu- ed. “would violate the First Amendment “The department fully intends to man Services. In its announcement of the final rule, religious freedom rights of providers continue to enforce all the laws it has Deirdre McQuade, assistant director HHS officials stressed that the partial or the tenets or the Hippocratic Oath, been charged with administering,” it for policy and communications at the rescission has no effect on existing and would impact the ethical integrity added. U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ laws protecting the conscience rights of the medical profession.” The HHS Office for Civil Rights, Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities, was of health care providers. “While the department carefully which is charged with enforcing the commenting Feb. 18 on the final rule “Strong conscience laws make it considered these comments, we do existing conscience protection laws issued earlier that day by HHS to re- clear that health care providers cannot not specifically address them because and regulations, will begin a “new scind elements of a December 2008 be compelled to perform or assist in this partial rescission does not alter or awareness initiative for our grantees rule on conscience protection. The an abortion,” the announcement said. affect the existing federal health care ... to ensure they understand the statu- 2008 rule came down in the final days “The rule being issued today builds provider conscience protections,” the tory conscience protections and the of the administration of President on these laws by providing a clear en- HHS final rule said. enforcement process for those who George W. Bush. forcement process.” It cited the Church amendment, sec- believe their rights have been violat- “It is very disappointing that the HHS said parts of the 2008 regula- tion 245 of the Public Health Service ed,” HHS said. [Obama] administration has chosen to tion had “caused confusion and could Act and the Weldon amendment as Ms. McQuade said she hoped the eliminate much of the existing regula- be taken as overly broad.” the “federal health care provider con- administration would now “place its tion on conscience issued in Decem- The 41-page final rule summarized science protection statutes” that col- full support behind efforts in Congress ber 2008,” Ms. McQuade said. and responded to the major themes of lectively “prohibit recipients of cer- to clarify conscience protections and “Among other things, the final rule the more than 300,000 comments re- tain federal funds from discriminating make them more secure by endorsing issued today eliminates important ceived by HHS to the proposed rescis- against certain health care providers such initiatives as the Protect Life Act clarifications that would have helped sion. based on their refusal to participate (H.R. 358), the No Taxpayer Fund- in interpreting and enforcing long- More than 97,000 individuals and in health care services they find reli- ing for Abortion Act (H.R. 3) and the standing federal statutes protecting the organizations supported the move to giously or morally objectionable.” Abortion Non-Discrimination Act conscience rights of health care pro- rescind, with most saying the 2008 Both the Church and Weldon amend- (H.R. 361).”

Permanent End to Taxpayer Abortion Funding Called Long Overdue By Nancy Frazier O’Brien through the Indian Health Service, state Medicaid Mr. Rosenbaum, who testified that H.R. 3 would Catholic News Service funding to HMOs and Medicare reimbursements for have adverse effects on the tax treatment of health nonelderly disabled people, he added. insurance and health care expenditures, also spoke The effort to make permanent a ban on federal He urged Congress to “finally put a stop to this un- at a Feb. 9 hearing on the Protect Life Act before funding of abortion is both long overdue and widely gainly mechanism and simply apply the principle of the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Sub- supported by Americans, an official of the U.S. Con- the Hyde amendment across the federal government committee on Health. ference of Catholic Bishops told a House subcom- once and for all.” Other witnesses at that hearing were Helen Alvare, mittee Feb. 8. Also addressing the subcommittee Feb. 8 were an associate professor at George Mason University Richard M. Doerflinger, associate director of the Cathy Cleaver Ruse, senior fellow for legal studies School of Law and Ms. Ruse’s predecessor as the USCCB Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities, was one at the Family Research Council and a former spokes- USCCB pro-life spokeswoman, and Douglas John- of three witnesses testifying on the No Taxpayer woman for the USCCB on pro-life issues; and Sara son, director of federal legislation for the National Funding for Abortion Act, H.R. 3, before the House Rosenbaum, a professor of health law and policy at Right to Life Committee. Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on the Consti- George Washington University. The bill on which they were testifying would make tution. Ms. Ruse said the Hyde amendment represented a changes in the Patient Protection and Affordable “H.R. 3 is a well-crafted and reasonable measure consensus between those who support abortion and Care Act to ensure that there is no federal funding of to maintain long-standing and widely supported pol- those who oppose it. abortion and the conscience rights of health provid- icies against active government promotion of abor- “A majority of ‘pro-life’ and ‘pro-choice’ Ameri- ers are protected. tion,” he said. “It consistently applies to all branches cans came together in agreement that, whatever their Ms. Alvare focused her remarks on the conscience of the federal government the principle that govern- differences on the underlying question of legality, protection aspects of the legislation, saying that con- ment can encourage childbirth over abortion through the government should not subsidize abortions,” she science protection should not be seen as “a zero-sum its funding power, and that it should not coerce any- said. game between conscience-driven health care provid- one’s involvement in abortion.” “H.R. 3 does not impact in any way the legality of ers and the patients they serve, particularly the most In his testimony, Mr. Doerflinger cited past - sur any abortion, nor does it strengthen or diminish the vulnerable women.” veys showing that the Hyde amendment – attached arguments on either side of the abortion divide,” Mr. “The nation can and should both respect con- to annual Department of Health and Human Services Ruse added. science-driven health care providers, and deliver to appropriations bills since 1976 – has “consistently But it does respond to President Barack Obama’s the most vulnerable Americans the health care their had the support of the American people,” with many call to “find common ground” on abortion, she said. human dignity requires,” she told the subcommit- wrongly assuming that “it is already fully imple- “For over three decades, Americans have come tee. mented at all levels of our federal government.” together in what may be the only truly bipartisan Those who oppose conscience protections “are “The fact is that Congress’ policy has been remark- agreement possible: That whatever our differences only attempting to force the government and con- ably consistent for decades, but the implementation on the underlying question of legality, we agree that science-driven private providers to give them what of that policy in practice has been piecemeal, con- the federal government should not subsidize abor- the market has steadfastly refused to do,” Ms. Alvare fusing and sometimes sadly inadequate,” he said. tions with taxpayer dollars,” Ms. Ruse said. “This is said. “If opponents of conscience believe this to be Gaps and loopholes have been found that allowed the common ground on abortion in America. H.R. 3 too few abortions, current law leaves them free to or could have allowed for the funding of abortions would make that common ground statutory law.” provide more abortion services.” February 25, 2011, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS - 15

World and National News Vatican Officials Express Hopes for Egypt’s Future Catholic News Service

The Vatican’s ambassador to Egypt said he hoped the country’s future would include greater social justice and greater freedom for all of the country’s people. In an interview with Vatican Radio Feb. 11, Archbishop Michael Fitzger- ald said he hoped the Supreme Coun- cil of the Armed Forces, which is run- ning Egypt, would follow the direction of constitutional reform and “will also respond to the other demands of the population with regard to social jus- tice and with regard to political liber- ties as well.” Archbishop Fitzgerald, the Vatican nuncio in Cairo, said that even before President Hosni Mubarak resigned Feb. 11, the Egyptian leader had given his vice president the task of studying various articles of the constitution with a view of amending them in response to protesters’ demands for greater de- mocracy. Mubarak’s promises of reform were not enough for protesters, and he was forced to hand over power to the mili- tary and step down. As Mubarak left the capital and the military took over, the nuncio told Vat- CNS/DYLAN MARTINEZ, REUTERS. ican Radio, “We are still in an uncer- Young people wave flags atop an army vehicle at Tahrir Square in Cairo Feb. 12, a day after the resignation of President tain position, but the people are very Hosni Mubarak. happy – they are rejoicing – and we hope that this euphoria will produce a Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, pre- ation,” the cardinal said. dignity of men and women, the free- moment of solidarity for the people in fect of the Congregation for Eastern Egypt’s 8 million to 10 million Cop- dom of all and civic coexistence with this country.” Churches, told Vatican Radio Feb. 14 tic Orthodox and up to 250,000 Coptic respect for others and respect for the The Supreme Council of the Armed that he hoped the patient commitment Catholics have a right to express their law,” Cardinal Sandri said. Forces announced Feb. 13 a series of to nonviolence and democracy that opinions and hopes in the process of “I really hope the wisdom that the motivated the protesters would con- rewriting the nation’s constitutions, he steps needed for a democratic tran- Egyptians have and that they showed sition, including the dissolution of tinue to inspire changes in Egypt for said. during the demonstrations, which Mubarak’s parliament, a suspension the good of all of its citizens, including “I certainly think they should be of the constitution with the promise the Christian minority. listened to, and I also hope that their were conducted in a peaceful way and of establishing a committee to rewrite “These changes could signal situ- opinions will be accepted. I also hope in which they expressed their desire it, and the promise of elections in six ations of difficulty, but they also can that in the constitution there are those for change, will enlighten their future months. represent seeds of hope for a new situ- fundamental principles that affirm the steps,” he said.

North american Prelates over the beatification Mass at 10 a.m. May 1 in St. no tickets are required,” the statement said. And Peter’s Square, the Vatican said. Immediately af- for events that require tickets, such as the pope’s Get extra assignments ter Mass, the faithful can pray before Pope John weekly general audience, the tickets “are always Pope Benedict XVI named U.S. Cardinal Ray- Paul’s mortal remains, which will be set in front of issued free of charge and no person or organization mond L. Burke and Canadian Cardinal Marc Ouel- the main altar in St. Peter’s Basilica. The venera- can request any kind of payment,” it said. let to the council of cardinals and bishops advising tion “will continue until the flow of faithful ends,” the Vatican Secretariat of State on diplomatic mat- it said. ters, and he named Bishop John C. Wester of Salt Distributing the program Feb. 18, Jesuit Father Church Must Offer More Lake City to the Pontifical Council for Migrants Federico Lombardi, the Vatican spokesman, said encouragement, Support for and Travelers. The appointments were announced the deceased pope’s remains will be in the casket in Vocations, Pope Says at the Vatican Jan. 29. Cardinal Burke, who heads which he originally was buried in 2005 and will not the Apostolic Signature, which is the Vatican’s su- be visible. The casket will be reinterred in the Cha- Catholics must be more courageous in highlight- preme court, and Cardinal Ouellet, prefect of the pel of St. Sebastian on the main level of St. Peter’s ing and fostering vocations, Pope Benedict XVI Congregation for Bishops, were named to the ad- Basilica in a “private” ceremony, which will occur said. “Every Christian community, every member visory council along with Cardinal Peter Erdo of only after the large crowds have stopped coming to of the church needs consciously to feel responsibil- Esztergom-Budapest, Hungary, and Cardinal For- pay their respects, Father Lombardi said. The night ity for promoting vocations,” especially in an era tunato Baldelli, head of the Apostolic Penitentiary, before the beatification, a prayer vigil will be held when God’s voice “seems to be drowned out by another Vatican court. The council of cardinals and in the grassy open space that was the ancient Circus ‘other voices’ and his invitation to follow him by bishops advises the section for relations with states Maximus in Rome, the Vatican said. The morning the gift of one’s own life may seem too difficult,” of the Vatican Secretariat of State. In other appoint- after the beatification, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, he said in his message for the World Day of Prayer ments, Pope Benedict named Bishop Wester, for- the Vatican secretary of state, will celebrate a Mass for Vocations. Those who experience a clear call mer chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on of thanksgiving in St. Peter’s Square, the Vatican to priestly or need encouragement, Migration, to be a member of the pontifical council said. support and the possibility of feeling “the warmth that promotes the pastoral care and rights of mi- U.S. Archbishop James M. Harvey, prefect of the of the whole community as they respond ‘yes’ grants, refugees, seafarers and others who are far papal household, which organizes the non-liturgi- to God and the church,” he said. The papal mes- from home. cal side of papal events, also issued a statement sage for the day of prayer, which will be observed Feb. 18 emphasizing the fact that tickets will not be May 15, was released Feb. 10 at the Vatican. The Vatican announces Pope required to attend the beatification. The archbish- 2011 theme is “Proposing Vocations in the Local op’s statement, distributed in six languages, said Church.” In his message, Pope Benedict said pro- John Paul II Beatification Events he had been “informed of the existence of unau- posing vocations on the local level means “hav- The Vatican released a three-day schedule of thorized offers by some tour operators, especially ing the courage, through an attentive and suitable events for the beatification of Pope John Paul II, on the Internet,” claiming that for a fee they could concern for vocations, to point out this challenging and warned against people selling counterfeit help people get tickets to papal events, particularly way of following Christ which, because it is so rich tickets to the beatification liturgy, which is free the beatification Mass. “For the beatification Mass in meaning, is capable of engaging the whole of and open to all. Pope Benedict XVI will preside of Pope John Paul II, as made clear from the outset, one’s life.” 16 - THE CATHOLIC WITNESS, February 25, 2011

Faith and Life

CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS Bishop Joseph P. McFadden anoints the forehead of a young girl as he administers the sacrament of anointing of the sick at St. Patrick Cathedral in Harrisburg Feb. 11, the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. Bishop McFadden Anoints the Sick at St. Patrick’s Cathedral By Chris Heisey gether, Pope John Paul spoke not only to Mass at St. Patrick Cathedral, Harris- us, to comfort us…. Jesus was afraid of The Catholic Witness the loving grace of Christ, but to Mary’s burg, during which he performed the sac- the cross – we tend to forget that. Jesus unfailing love. rament of anointing of the sick for more had his agony… Jesus took on human na- Soon after Pope John Paul II was di- One hundred fifty two years ago, it than 40 faithful. Several other priests of ture so he felt what we feel.” agnosed with Parkinson’s disease in was Mary who appeared 18 times to the the diocese also assisted in administering The bishop also spoke to the Gospel 1991, he decided to create the World Day young peasant girl the sacrament, which includes the laying message of John 2:1-1, which recounts of Prayer for the Sick as a feast day to at Lourdes, France, which today is a great on of hands followed by the anointing of the wedding feast at Cana. “Go and do coincide with the Feast of Our Lady of place of pilgrimage for those who suffer the forehead and palms with the oil of the whatever he tells you to,” Mary tells the Lourdes, Feb. 11. What the Holy Father with human sickness and frailty. sick blessed at last year’s Chrism Mass. servants as Christ prepares to turn water wanted was a “special time of prayer and On the 19th anniversary of the First In his homily, Bishop McFadden told into wine. “That’s good advice for all of sharing, of offering one’s suffering to the World Day of Prayer for the Sick, Bish- those gathered that “It is in this sacra- us….,” Bishop McFadden said. “We are Lord.” And by tying the two feasts to- op Joseph P. McFadden celebrated Holy ment that the Lord comes to strengthen never by ourselves in our suffering.”

Lent Begins March 9 The observance of Lent this year begins March 9, Ash Wednesday, which is a day of fast and abstinence for Catho- lics. On Ash Wednesday, the imposition of ashes on our fore- heads replicates an ancient penitential practice and symbolizes our dependence upon God’s mercy and forgiveness. The three traditional pillars of Lenten observance are prayer, fasting and almsgiving. The key to fruitful observance of these practices is to recognize their link to baptismal renewal. We are called not just to abstain from sin during Lent but to true conversion of our hearts and minds as followers of Christ. For resources to support your Lenten practices, visit www.usccb.org/lent.