Easter Misión de Armistad welcome Franklin Thousands of group new or returning experiences Catholics join Mission of church in U.S. at Friendship, Easter, page 2. page 4.

www.ErieRCD.org BI-WEEKLY NEWS BULLETIN OF THE DIOCESE OF ERIE April 26, 2009 Church Calendar Events of the local, American and universal church Caring Feast days for our Good

St. Catherine St. Joseph of Siena the Worker Shepherds April 28 St. Peter Chanel (priest, martyr), St. Louis Mary de Montfort (French priest, author Good Shepherd Collection May 2-3 of “True Devotion to the Blessed to aid retired priests in Erie Diocese Virgin”) By Jason Koshinskie cracks. Msgr. Richard Stack, left, and Msgr. John tired priests. Although they are retired, they April 29 St. FaithLife editor Of course, relaxing in front Hagerty, pictured in the Blessed Sacrament are still active in a number of ministries. (Third Order Dominican, of the TV is still a bit of a rectory chapel, are two of the diocese's 52 re- reformer, mystic) Msgr. Richard Stack luxury for these men, who re- likes to watch “Judge Judy” main quite busy with priestly April 30 Pope Pius V (instituted feast of at 4 o’clock. Msgr. John duties. chael J. Murphy Residence Of the 52, seven still have a But while these priests are Hagerty prefers a rerun of Both priests reside at for Retired Priests. They are diocesan assignment beyond considered “retired,” their Our Lady of the Rosary) “M*A*S*H.” Blessed Sacrament Rectory two of the diocese’s 52 re- retirement age: five serve as “But we don’t fight over in Erie, which has become an tired priests, 47 of whom are senior associates and two See GOOD SHEPHERDS, May 1 St. Joseph the Worker (patron page 3 of the universal church, fathers, the remote,” Msgr. Hagerty extension of the Bishop Mi- retired from active ministry. serve as pastors. carpenters and ) May 2 St. Athanasius (bishop, Doctor Pope declares Year of the Priest of the Church) Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati to inspire spiritual perfection In confirmation By Carol Glatz France by visiting with them, teach- Catholic News Service ing them about God and reconciling Confirmations homily, bishop people to the Lord in the confession- — Pope Bene- al. Ss. Cosmas and Damian, Punxsutawney focuses on Italian dict XVI declared a year of the priest In his address, Pope Benedict – Sunday, April 26 at 11 a.m. Confirmation blessed as role in an effort to encourage “spiritual underlined the necessary and “in- classes include Ss. Cosmas and Damian, Punx- perfection” in priests. dispensable struggle for moral per- sutawney; St. Adrian, Delancey; St. Anthony model for young The pope will open the special fection which must dwell in every of Padua, Walston; and St. Joseph, Anita. year with a vespers service at the authentically priestly heart.” people Vatican June 19 — the feast of the The pope said he was calling for Immaculate Conception, Clarion – Sunday, Sacred Heart of Jesus and the day the special year for priests in an effort April 26 at 3 p.m. Confirmation classes include for the sanctification of priests. He to foster the priest’s yearning “for By Jason Koshinskie will close the celebrations during a spiritual perfection, upon which the Immaculate Conception, Clarion; Immaculate FaithLife editor Conception, Brookville; and St. Charles, New World Meeting of Priests in St. Pe- effectiveness of their ministry princi- Bethlehem. ter’s Square June 19, 2010. pally depends.” Saying “yes” to God in today’s The pope made the announcement Priests must also be “present, culture can be hard, particularly for Holy Redeemer, Warren – Monday, April during a recent audience with mem- identifiable and recognizable — for young people. bers of the Vatican Congregation for their judgment of faith, their per- 27 at 7 p.m. Confirmation classes include Holy Bishop Donald Trautman knows Redeemer, Warren; St. Joseph, Warren; St. Bishop Trautman is distributing Clergy. sonal virtues and their attire — in the this. That’s why during his travels During this jubilee year, the pope fields of culture and charity which Anthony, Sheffield; and St. Luke, Youngsville. this spring and fall for confirma- this holy card of Blessed Pier Gior- gio Frassati to those being con- will also proclaim St. John Vianney have always been at the heart of the tion, he’ll introduce the youth of the to be of all the world’s church’s mission,” he said. St. Jude, Erie – Thursday, April 30 at 7 p.m. diocese to a would-be saint who is firmed in 2009. The back includes Confirmation classes include St. Jude, Erie, a quote from Pier Giorgio’s speech priests. At present he is consid- among their own peer group. ered the patron saint of parish and St. Julia, Erie. Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati lived to the Catholic Youth of Pollone, , in 1923. priests. in , Italy, and was just 24 when This year marks the 150th St. Leo Magnus, Ridgway – Friday, May 1 he died in 1925 from polio. Besides at 5:30 p.m. anniversary of the death of this being an excellent athlete and popu- and needy. A passionate social activ- 19th-century saint who repre- lar among his friends, he was dedi- ist, he joined student organizations, sents a “true example of a priest St. Patrick, Erie – Monday, May 4 at 7 p.m. cated to serving the poor. opposed and established a Confirmation classes include St. Patrick, Erie; at the service of the flock of Born into a wealthy and influen- daily newspaper. His charitable acts Christ,” the pope said. Holy Rosary, Erie; Holy Trinity, Erie; Our tial but non-religious family, Blessed included donating the money he re- Mother of Sorrows, Erie; St. Hedwig, Erie; St. John Vianney is widely Pier Giorgio joined the Society of St. ceived for high school graduation to known to Catholics as the Cure St. John the Baptist, Erie; and St. Stanislaus, Vincent de Paul in 1918 at age 17, Erie. (parish priest) of Ars who won committing his spare time to the sick See FRASSATI, page 3 over the hearts of his villagers in Christ the King, Houtzdale – Friday, May 8 at 7 p.m. Confirmation classes include Christ the King, Houtzdale; Immaculate Conception, Madera; St. Mary of the Assumption, French- Pope Benedict to find Holy Land changed since predecessor’s visit ville; Ss. Peter and Paul, Grassflat; St. Severin, Drifting; St. Agnes, Morrisdale; Ss. Peter and By Judith Sudilovsky Pope Benedict XVI’s first Paul, Hawk Run; Immaculate Conception, Os- Catholic News Service Golan ceola Mills; St. Basil the Great, Coalport; and ISRAEL Heights visit to the Holy Land includes Holy Trinity, Ramey. JERUSALEM — Pope Benedict these stops and highlights. XVI will encounter a Holy Land that Sea of has changed greatly since Pope John Galilee SYRIA AMMAN Paul II visited in 2000. Meeting at Royal Palace Mount Nebo Pope John Paul arrived in Israel NAZARETH Ordination of transitional deacons – King Hussein Mosque and the Palestinian territories when, Stadium Mass May 2 despite stumbling blocks in the peace Bethany Beyond the Jordan process, the jubilee year celebrations Three seminarians for the Erie Diocese are Pope John Paul II seemed to buoy the Holy Land with a JERUSALEM ready to take another step toward priesthood. booming tourism industry. places a prayer in a Bishop Donald Trautman will ordain seminarians Yad Vashem Hall of Remembrance But Pope Benedict will visit amid crevice of the Western Dome of the Rock Christopher Barnes (St. Venantius, Rouseville), continued Israeli-Palestinian tensions Wall, Judaism’s holiest Western Wall Michael Polinek (St. Joseph/Bread of Life, Erie) West — months after a controversial Israeli site, March 26, 2000. Visit with Chief Rabbis Matias Quimno Bank JORDAN and (All Saints, Waterford) into invasion of Gaza and during continu- Speaking to ecumenical leaders on Mass in Josafat Valley the order of the diaconate during a 10:30 a.m. Mass ing Palestinian rocket attacks against the historic trip that included visits Ecumenical Meeting on Saturday, May 2 at St. Mark Seminary Chapel, southern Israeli towns. to Jordan, Israel and the Palestinian Church of the Holy Sepulcher 429 E. Grandview Blvd., Erie. On his visit to Bethlehem, West territories, the pontiff prayed that the Holy Land would be a homeland to AMMAN WEST BANK Bank, Pope John Paul was received Q Religious Scouting Awards – May 3 by a united Palestinian Authority, led all faiths and peoples. In May, Pope Mass in Manger Square Church of the Nativity Grotto by longtime Palestinian leader Yasser Benedict XVI will encounter a Holy Bethany Individual and group badges, patches, honors Land that has changed greatly since Aida Refugee Camp and awards will be presented to Boy Scouts, Girl Arafat. In May Palestinian President JERUSALEM Mahmoud Abbas, who is struggling to his predecessor’s visit. Scouts, Cub Scouts and Brownies throughout the NAZARETH unite the Palestinian factions follow- Erie Diocese for their achievements in the areas BETHLEHEM Mass at Mount Precipice ing a 2007 split with the Islamic fun- ments, he limited the issuance and re- Meeting with Israeli Prime Minister of spiritual growth on Sunday, May 3 at St. Peter TURKEY Cathedral, Erie, at 2:30 p.m. For more information damentalist political party and militia newal of entry and residence permits Basilica of the Annunciation Hamas, will welcome Pope Benedict. for Christian clergy. Despite numerous IRAN on scouting in the Erie Diocese, visit www.ErieRCD. IRAQ Israel’s recent election brought to protests to rectify the situation, clergy org/scout.asp. Dead power a conservative government are still struggling with visa and permit SAUDI whose new foreign minister declared issues. Sea ARABIA World Day of Prayer for Vocations – in his first public speech that the U.S.- Pope Benedict will face a land torn ©2009 CNS May 3 sponsored 2007 Annapolis peace dec- asunder and scarred by the violence laration — which calls for two states, and physical barriers of the second civil uprising and feeling the sting of fessor at Israel’s Bar-Ilan University, On Sunday, May 3, the church will celebrate the Israeli and Palestinian — has “no va- intifada, which broke out just months the current international economic said that perhaps since people have 46th annual World Day of Prayer for Vocations. lidity.” after the 2000 papal visit. He will stand downturn — still waiting for the ad- experienced one papal visit and did To read Pope Benedict XVI's message, visit www. The new Israeli government also before people who have lost hope in the ditional influx of pilgrims and tour- not get the expected results, they might usccb.org/cclv/2009_papal_message.pdf. has an interior minister from the reli- future and no longer trust their politi- ists they dreamed of following the have lowered their expectations, and gious Shas party; when a Shas official cians, and he will see precarious econo- earlier papal visit. that could actually make for a better held that position in previous govern- mies still reeling from the effects of the Yvonne Friedman, a history pro- visit for Pope Benedict. By the Way...

from Catholic News Service The Catholic Foundation will honor a host of new donors for their current and fu- IN THE U.S. Vermont becomes the fourth state in the na- AROUND THE WORLD ture planned gifts to the endowments held by tion to recognize marriages for gay and les- the foundation during a 5 p.m. Mass on Sat- „Parishioners from 31 groups in eight bian couples, after Massachusetts, Connecti- „Some 1,800 Franciscan friars from urday, May 2 at St. Mark Catholic Center in U.S. dioceses have joined forces to ask cut and Iowa. During a March hearing about all over the world were expected to con- Erie. These endowments were created from a the Vatican to suspend parish closings and to the same-sex marriage legislation, called the verge on the Umbrian hill town of Assisi, Ita- portion of the proceeds received during the instruct bishops to negotiate the closures with Freedom to Marry Act, Bishop Salvatore ly, to celebrate the 800th anniversary of papal 2001-03 Capital Campaign. local Catholics. In an 18-page letter delivered Matano of Burlington defended the church’s approval of the Franciscan rule. For the first This inaugural Legacy Society event is one April 7 to several Vatican offices, the parish opposition to same-sex marriages, saying it time, representatives way that Foundation President Dr. Emma representatives said the decision to close hun- has been the ’s “consistent from the four main Lee McCloskey and her board are using to dreds of parishes across the country has left teaching ... that marriage is the union of man Franciscan branches educate those who gave to the capital cam- the U.S. Cath- and woman.” were to meet in As- paign about how the endowments are helping Jason Koshinskie olic Church sisi — the birthplace people of the diocese. For more information, at a “’tip- of their founder, St. visit The Catholic Foundation Web site at www.TCFRCD.org or call ping point’ Francis — to take 814.824.1236. of permanent part in an Interna- Attention all Cursillistas! The Erie Cursillo Movement is updat- damage and tional Chapter of ing its records and needs your help. Anyone who has made a Cur- irreversible Mats April 15-18. sillo is asked to complete a Cursillo Census Form, available at www. decline.” Pe- A Chapter of Mats eriecursillo.org or in the last two issues of the Cursillo newsletter. ter Borre, co- gets its name from the time in 1221 St. Fran- Future correspondence will be sent via e-mail. Those who have not chairman of cis called more than 3,000 friars to the Porti- completed the census will be unable to receive its newsletter. the Boston- uncula chapel in Assisi for a general meeting In 45 years, 17,000 people in the diocese have “made” a Cursillo based Council or chapter. Because the small town could not (pronounced kur-SEE-yo), which means “short course” in Christian- of Parishes, accommodate the large number of visitors, ity. Faith magazine lists upcoming weekends on its calendar. formed in the friars lived in huts made out of reeds and On Sunday, May 3, Engagement Encounter will host a special 2004 to op- slept on mats. The four Franciscan groups par- celebration, acknowledging the 100th EE weekend in the Erie Dio- pose parish „As the White House signaled that ticipating are the Capuchins, the Conventual cese. It will combine, for the first time, a group of engaged couples closings, said President Barack Obama is getting ready Franciscans, the Order of Friars Minor and who will be experiencing an EE weekend (Friday till Sunday) and the effort is meant to offer a “third way” for to leap into the fray over immigration law the Third Order Regular Franciscans. alumni of EE (married couples) who will attend a one-day enrich- the Catholic Church to respond to changing and policy, activists geared up for the May 1 ment event, with a liturgy and luncheon to follow (and wedding cake demographics, financial concerns and the de- launch of a push to get comprehensive legis- PEOPLE OF FAITH for dessert). clining number of priests nationwide. In ad- lation through Congress this year. The New This event will be held at McKeever Environmental Learning dition to parishioners in the Boston Archdio- York Times April 9 quoted Cecilia Munoz, „Following a recommendation by the Center in Sandy Lake, one of two host sites for EE. For informa- cese, other worshippers involved in the request White House director of intergovernmental Vatican Congregation for Clergy, 33 tion about this one-day event or to place your reservation, contact are from the New York and New Orleans affairs, saying Obama would speak about im- women from the Diocese of Tulsa were conse- the Family Life Office at 814.824.1261 or by e-mail at familylife@ archdioceses and the dioceses of Allentown, migration in May, kicking off an effort to ful- crated as spiritual mothers of priests during a ErieRCD.org. Buffalo, Cleveland, Scranton and Springfield, fill a campaign promise to deal with the issue special Mass at Holy Family Cathedral. They The quote of the week comes from New York, where Archbishop Mass. in his first year in office. The same day White are the first spiritual mothers to be consecrated Timothy Dolan did an interview with The Catholic Channel on House press secretary Robert Gibbs said the in the United States, said Father Mark Kirby, Sirius XM Radio the day after he was installed as 10th archbishop of „Vermont legislators voted to over- president doesn’t expect immigration reform a Tulsa priest who directs a cenacle for priests New York. ride the governor’s veto of same-sex to be completed this year, but “it’s something in the diocese. “Mary is the model for those “My first pastoral letter’s gonna be a condemnation of light beer marriage legislation April 7, making the president is committed to addressing.” whom God has called to serve the church by and instant mashed potatoes,” said Archbishop Dolan, who has the state the fourth to allow same-sex mar- That word was welcomed by Cardinal Roger living as spiritual mothers of priests,” Bishop headed the Archdiocese of Milwaukee for the past seven years. “I riage and the first to do so without a court Mahony of Los Angeles and organizations Edward Slattery of Tulsa told the women dur- hate those two things.” order. The same day, the District of Columbia that have been pushing for years for a com- ing the March 24 Mass. Each of the women And finally, while The New York Times has “All the News That’s Council voted to recognize same-sex unions prehensive approach to a wide range of prob- was presented with a medal and a certificate Fit to Print” on a daily basis, our diocesan news is brought to you formalized in other states. Both votes came lems related to immigration. It’s a “moral im- signifying their dedication to a particular on the pages of FaithLife every other week. To help tell more stories less than a week after the Iowa Supreme perative that is long overdue, since a broken priest, who was described to them but not about the people and places around the diocese, yours truly has start- Court’s unanimous decision to legalize gay system continues to undermine the human named. The priests who expressed interest ed a blog. View from the Choir Loft (http://viewfromthechoirloft. marriage by striking down a state law defin- dignity of our brothers and sisters,” Cardinal in having a spiritual mother do not know her blogspot.com) is an extension of this column and local church chat. ing marriage as a union of one man and one Mahony said in an April 9 statement. identity, either. The women were asked to Bookmark VFTCL as one of your favorites! woman. The Vermont law will allow same-sex spend time daily in adoration and intercessory prayer directed toward their adopted priest. Jason Koshinskie is editor of FaithLife. Contact him at JKoshinskie@ marriages in the state beginning in September. ErieRCD.org or 814.824.1171.

Thousands of new or returning Catholics join church in U.S. at Easter By Catholic News Service and the Diocese of San Diego baptized 305 new members and welcome 920 other baptized Chris- WASHINGTON — As many as 150,000 new tians, adding a total of 1,225 to its ranks. or returning Catholics are expected to join the In the mostly rural Diocese of Birmingham, Catholic Church in 2009 in the United States. Ala., the Cathedral of St. Paul could not handle all Many of them did so during the Easter Vigil April who are joining, 445 people in total, and their fami- 11 in parishes across the country. lies for the Rite of Election. The rites where held in Only partial figures from a sample of U.S. dio- three different ceremonies, two at the cathedral on ceses were available so far for 2009, according to the first Sunday of Lent, and another one in Hunts- a March 31 news release from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bish- ops. The numbers do not include infant baptisms, which are record- New Catholics in the Erie Diocese ed separately. Catechumens Candidates Total new members In some cases the numbers of new or returning Catholics show     growth in the church in places     where it has traditionally been a     minority, like Georgia. The Archdiocese of Atlanta es-     timated that 513 catechumens and     2,195 candidates will join the ranks of the archdiocese in 2009. About 1,800 of them did so at Easter. Catechumens, or people not yet baptized, re- ville, Ala., the prior Saturday. Some people came ceive the sacraments of initiation -- baptism, con- from as far as 80 miles away to participate. St. Michael Parish in Greenville welcomed 11 Campbell anoints the forehead of William Em- firmation and first Communion. Candidates, who The Rite of Election, usually celebrated at the new members into the sacraments at its April mett as his wife, Amy, looks on. are already baptized Christians, enter full commu- beginning of Lent, marks the official countdown 11 Easter Vigil Mass. Above, Father James nion with the church by receiving confirmation to initiation or admission into the church. and first Communion. Around the country parishes in dioceses big tized, those received into full communion, their rectory, 49,415 adults were baptized and 87,363 On the opposite side of the country the Arch- and small, urban and rural, were preparing for new faith community and the entire church “from people came into full communion with the church. diocese of Seattle welcomed 736 catechumens and the special Easter liturgies filled with symbolism darkness into light.” In 2007, those numbers were 62,464 and 92,975, 506 candidates for a total of 1,242 new members; that will lead the “neophytes,” or the newly bap- In 2008, according to the Official Catholic Di- respectively.

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3RVWPDVWHU6HQGDGGUHVVFKDQJHVWR )DLWK/LIHDW6W0DUN&DWKROLF&HQWHU Dave Ras Amy Ras Carol Ras Jim Winarski owner office office mgr. %ULHÁ\ Good Shepherd Collection May 2-3 Catholic Services Appeal parish projects The 2009 Catholic Services Appeal, “Of GOOD SHEPHERD, from page 1 doors to lock. And when a roof leaks, their One Heart and Mind,” supports the Erie phone doesn’t ring. Diocese in helping to provide health and so- ministry continues. They celebrate Mass, min- “I’ve been happy ever since,” Msgr. Stack cial services, education, diocesan administra- ister to the sick, visit hospitals and provide said. “I celebrate the sacraments. I celebrate tion and pastoral services throughout the 13 spiritual counseling. Mass every day. And if I’m needed elsewhere, counties of northwestern Pennsylvania. The Good Shepherd Collection, which will they’ll give me a call and I’ll go there, too. It’s While a portion of the financial goal for be taken up in the Erie Diocese the weekend an active retirement, for which I’m grateful.” the appeal benefits the ministries of the dio- of May 2-3, is an opportunity to say thanks to He hears confessions at the local high cese, parishes also benefit from the appeal. our retired priests for their many years of faith- schools, as well as at the chapel in the Mill- Each parish is assessed a financial goal. Once ful service, said Msgr. Dan Magraw, pastor of creek Mall. He’s involved with the seasonal a parish reaches its assessment, every dollar Blessed Sacrament, director of the Good Shep- penance services at Blessed Sacrament, St. pledged over that amount stays within the parish for local projects. herd Collection. Jude and Our Lady of Peace. He’s a substi- Here’s a look at what some parishes are doing with their CSA “This assists our retired priests, especially in tute chaplain at Hamot Medical Center and overage funds: the area of health care,” Msgr. Magraw said. celebrates 7 a.m. Mass each weekday in the “With the high cost for the expenses they face, rectory chapel for Blessed Sacrament parish- Sharon Deanery particularly the ones that go into nursing care, ioners. their funds can be quickly absorbed. This col- “There’s always something,” he said.”The Beloved Disciple, Grove City – Debt reduction on new lection is to see that they get proper care.” one thing I do appreciate is that I have more pastoral center Plans call for the collection to be taken on time to myself. I can do a lot more reading Good Shepherd, West Middlesex – New HVAC system for the fourth Sunday of Easter in future years, as than I ever had a chance to before. It’s a more church, new rectory roof well. This collection is separate from the Col- relaxed lifestyle.” lection for Retired Religious taken in Decem- Msgr. Hagerty teaches Latin to 7th and 8th Holy Trinity, Farrell – No project listed ber; all funds for the Good Shepherd Collec- graders at Blessed Sacrament School and he’s Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mercer – Repairs and tion help priests within the diocese. The Good Shepherd statue in the Blessed involved with the weekend liturgies at the par- maintenance Senior priests in the Erie Diocese carry their Sacrament rectory chapel. ish. own weight, financially, until such a time that “I’m given the opportunity to take part Notre Dame, Hermitage – Balance the budget, complete they can’t do it anymore. Retired priests live in education for many years and as pastor of in parish ministry as much as I want to,” he payments on new pews and carpeting independently and pay for room and board at St. Joseph in Sharon, Blessed Sacrament in said. Our Lady of Fatima-St. Ann, Farrell – Carpeting for church their residences, as well as any insurance and Erie, St. Thomas in Corry and Notre Dame The priests are together each evening for a taxes. The Good Shepherd Collection helps in Hermitage. Both accepted the invitation of meal. But they also enjoy visiting with their Sacred Heart, Sharon – Painting and decorating of church subsidize the diocese’s Priest Retirement Fund, Msgr. Magraw to live at the rectory upon re- own friends and spending quiet time alone. sanctuary which helps cover escalating health care costs tiring. The rectory has room for three retired “This is a fairly new arrangement,” Msgr. St. Adalbert, Farrell – No project listed and long-term care expenses. priests. The current vacancy will soon be oc- Hagerty said. “Before, there was no retire- When the Bishop Murphy retirement resi- cupied by Msgr. Richard Mayer, who recently ment. You died in your rectory.” St. Anthony, Sharon – No project listed dence began filling up, Msgr. Magraw reno- retired as pastor of St. George in Erie. Aside from the Bishop Murphy retirement St. Bartholomew, Sharpsville vated his rectory, a former convent, to include Both Msgr. Stack and Msgr. Hagerty say residence and Blessed Sacrament’s rectory, the – Handicap accessibility fund private rooms for retired priests. their retirement so far has been a blessing. diocese operates John XXIII Home in Her- St. Columbkille, Stoneboro – New church roof, new siding Msgr. Stack, 78, worked in the Chancery Both priests are free to offer their ministry mitage and Christ the King Manor in DuBois. for rectory Office for 25 years before serving as pastor of without the administrative burden of being Retired priests can also choose to live at Saint St. Mark the Evangelist, St. Luke and St. Paul a pastor. There are no bills to pay other than Mary’s Home in Erie run by the Sisters of St. St. Joseph, Sharon – Heating and air-conditioning for church, parishes, all of Erie. Msgr. Hagerty, 79, served their own. There are no lights to turn off or Joseph. rectory and office St. Michael, Greenville – Church sidewalk repair; update heating, paint outside doors and new linoleum for school; new truck and pave road for cemetery In confirmation homily, bishop St. Stanislaus, Sharon – Boiler repair focuses on Italian blessed as Sisters of St. Joseph accepting nominations role model for young people for SSJ Spirit of Courage Awards FRASSATI, from page 1 The Sisters of St. Joseph of Northwestern Pennsylvania are accept- ing nominations for the 13th annual SSJ Spirit of Courage Awards. an elderly woman evicted from her apartment grandparents, teachers and parish priests for The awards will be presented at the SSJ Spirit of Courage dinner Oct. and supporting a sick widow’s three children. leading him to Christ. 6 at the Ambassador The charismatic Blessed Pier Giorgio is His life was filled with friends, fun times, Banquet and Confer- revered for his social activism, sports-loving sports, school and family. But it was also ence Center in Erie. way, sense of humor and generous spirit. He filled with regular visits to the poor and the The sisters are seek- loved skiing, horse riding, mountain climbing sick, buying them medicine and giving away ing nominees who ex- and practical jokes. his clothes and whatever money he had. emplify extraordinary So why does Bishop Trautman suggest Pier “He was a daily communicant, an apostle courage while dealing Giorgio to young people? in the student world, a witness for Christ to with personal struggles “He was a normal, healthy his peers,” Bishop Traut- (CNS file photo) or in helping others young person engaged in man said. “His private Italian Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati was a cope with illness, injury, school, sports and social life,” “He is a role model life was one of sacrifice struggling student who excelled in moun- chemical dependency Bishop Trautman said. “He who demonstrates that and deep faith, deep de- tain climbing. He had complete faith in God and/or economic ad- had pressures on him, pres- \oX Fan Ee \oXnJ and votion to Christ in the and persevered through college, dedicating versity. Nominees must sures of conforming and meet- Eucharist, especially himself to helping the poor and supporting reside within the boundaries of the thirteen counties of the Erie Dio- ing expectations, pressures of athletiF and IXnloYinJ Adoration of the Blessed church social teaching. He died at age 24 cese. school work and family prob- and SoSXlar and hol\ Sacrament. He led a life and was beatified by Pope John Paul II in To nominate someone, download and print a nomination form at lems, pressures of living in a at the same time.” filled with charity and 1990. He is pictured in an undated photo. www.ssjerie.org/courage.htm. Complete the form and return it to the hostile Christian environment. compassion.” address indicated on the form or submit your nominations online. For Our young people have these – Bishop Donald Trautman on In 1925 the questions or assistance, contact Kristina Huber at 814.836.4202 or e- same pressures. But here was a Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati young man was afflicted based in Nashville, Tenn., is a national or- mail [email protected]. young person who always put with an acute attack of ganization connected with Associazione Christ first and found peace and polio, which doctors Pier Giorgio Frassati in . It serves as happiness in living his faith. He is a role model speculated he caught from caring for the sick. a clearinghouse for information, materials, Why Catholic? faith formation workshops who demonstrates that you can be young and He died within five days at the age of 24. prayer cards and other religious items. Visit Why Catholic?, a four-year program that focuses on Scripture related athletic and fun-loving and popular and holy In a homily celebrating the International FrassatiUSA on the Web at www.FrassatiU- to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, offers workshops related to the at the same time.” Jubilee for Athletes in 1984, Pope John Paul SA.org. topic for the year. This year’s book focuses on morality and will be the Pier Giorgio’s favorite Gospel was St. Mat- said Blessed Pier Giorgio’s dedication to help- Blessed Pier Giorgio’s remains are buried theme of the workshops to be held in May. All members of Why Catho- thew because of the Sermon on the Mount ing the poor and suffering was an example of in a chapel in Turin’s St. John the Baptist lic? parishes are invited to attend these very helpful and worthwhile and its emphasis on the poor, the hungry and how to sow peace among people, “making us Cathedral, next to the chapel housing the events. No registration necessary. persecuted. Because he lived out this Gospel, brothers and sisters.” He called on his audi- Shroud of Turin. Dates and places are as follows: he became known as “The Man of the Be- ence to look closely at how this young man His body left Italy for a short time last „May 26 — St. Leo’s Knights of Columbus Building, atitudes.” At 17 he joined the St. Vincent de lived and to use him as an example, “a pro- year when it was moved to St. Benedict Par- Ridgway, 7-9 p.m. Paul Society, a lay organization, and cared for gram” to follow so that they, too, could “be ish and then St. Mary’s Cathedral in , „May 27 — St. Mary of Grace, Meadville, 7-9 p.m. the poor, sick and wounded soldiers returning messengers of the true peace of Christ.” Australia, where it became a became a focal „May 28 — St. Michael’s Lateran Hall, Greenville, 7-9 p.m. from World War I. He was beatified in May 1990 by Pope point of the pilgrimage. „May 30 — St. Mark Catholic Center, Erie, 9:30-11:30 a.m. He came from a rich, influential family. His John Paul II. Many young adult Catholics Any questions, contact Sister Nancy Fischer, SSJ at 814.824.1217. parents were not religious and discouraged his throughout the world have formed societies Catholic News Service contributed to this re- involvement with the church. He credited his to emulate his life and work. FrassatiUSA, port.

St. Martin Center presents ‘Spooks:

HEALTH CARE IS A CRITICAL CHOICE. CHOOSE WELL. The Haunting of the Skowronski Sisters,’ the longest-running play at the Roadhouse June 16-26 Theatre. This hilarious play follows a family “We can never of Polish sisters who call upon the new parish Holy Land Tour underestimate the power priest to bless their home when they realize Visiting Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Nazareth of our spirituality. So it’s being haunted. All shows will take place Tomb of Christ, Mt. Tabor, Dead Sea, etc. oĞenǰ it is the spirit within at St. Peter Cathedral Center, 160 W. 11th St. For more information that gives heart patients 2009 in Erie. Tickets are $25 each and include a or to order tickets, For a packet of detailed information call: the determination to wine, cheese and dessert intermission. contact St. Martin Center 724-722-3141 or Fax 724-722-3140 ma”e the diĜcult changes Showtimes: Friday, May 1 at 7:30 p.m. East 17th and Parade needed to improve their 814.452.6113 or email: [email protected]

Saturday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m. Religious Tours healthǰ their aĴitude and Seven Dolors Church - P. O. Box 308, Yukon, PA 15698 Sunday, May 3 at 2 p.m. www.stmartincenter.org their lives.” -- Manuel Forero, MD The 32nd Annual Saint Vincent Cardiologist Rosary March Johnston’s Evergreen Nursery, Inc. A HOSPITAL YOU CAN HAVE FAITH IN. Sunday, May 3 at 3 p.m. 7UXVWLQ8V You already know Saint Vincent is nationally recognized for in the Expo I Building  VLQFH its quality of care and as a leader in cutting-edge medical at the Clearfield Fair Grounds  technology. But have you considered what Saint Vincent’s GUEST SPEAKER- Fr. Lester Knoll, OFM, CAP faith-based mission means to you as a patient? It means a of St. Vincent Seminary, Latrobe, PA dedication to bringing God’s healing love to all those who Join us in the outdoor Rosary IURPSHUHQQLDOV are open to receiving it. It is a part of our continuum of and Eucharist Procession holistic care that cannot be measured in a lab test or charted “Pray the Rosary everyday GARDEN CENTER in order to obtain in a patient record, but is essential to healing for so many of 10000 Wales Road Erie, PA 16510 peace for the world.” (O.L. of Fatima 1917) our patients. (814) 739-2820 There will be Religious Articles, Books, Literature, Food and More! Retail Hours Mon - Fri (9 - 7) Sat (9 - 6) In case of inclement weather, the Rosary Procession  will be moved into the Expo I Building Sundays May & June (11 - 4)  :KROHVDOH2IILFH - (814) 897-1900 For more Information, WRWUHHVDQG CALL Bill Moore at (814) 765-0171 9LVLWXVDWjohnstonplants.com HYHU\WKLQJLQEHWZHHQ © Artwork by Bruce Baker www.saintvincenthealth.com Directions: I-90, Exit 35, South 3.5 miles (or) From Route 8, North onto Wales Rd. Franklin group experiences Mission of Friendship FRANKLIN – A group from St. Patrick Parish in Franklin re- cently returned from an eight-day trip to the Mission of Friendship in Merida, Mexico, which is shared by the Erie Diocese and the Arch- diocese of Yucatan, Mexico. The group included Dean and Cindy Collins, Dan and Debbie Drayer, Sister Marian Wehler, OSB, and Sister Claire Hudert, OSB. The group had the opportunity to participate in some of the pro- grams that are a part of the mis- sion including a morning at Little Friends, a day care facility for pre- Mercyhurst students use spring break to serve others school children; and an evening at From left to right, Father Santos Angel Villegas Gil, Sister Marian ERIE – A number of Mer- Nuevo Vida, a girls shelter. The Wehler, Dan Drayer, Sister Claire Hudert, Cindy Collins, Dean Col- cyhurst College students, in- group also spent time with fami- lins and Debbie Drayer. cluding 25 young people who lies involved in the sponsorship visited Goldsboro, N.C., with program. “We learned that there are and sisters in the parishes of the the campus chapter of Habitat Father Santos Angel Villegas many lives touched by the pro- Erie Diocese.” for Humanity, opted to spend Gil, pastor of Assumption Parish grams provided by the mission,” Parish groups, clubs or organi- spring break in service to others. in the village of Temozon, which said Cindy Collins. “The Mission zations that would be interested in They worked on the early stages is the sister parish of St. Boniface of Friendship is a mission of love. learning more about the Franklin of constructing a home, includ- Parish in Erie, took the group on Our group witnessed the love of group’s experience with the Mis- ing framing, roofing and sid- a tour of several villages where our brothers and sisters in Meri- sion of Friendship can contact ing. Campus Minister Amanda they visited with the people and da, and we would like to share Cindy Collins at 814.437.5901 or Zechman accompanied the learned about their culture. our experience with our brothers Debbie Drayer at 814.432.7867. group. Laura Stevens, a junior psy- chology major from Butler, is Seminarian installed to ministry of reader president of Mercyhurst’s Habi- LATROBE – Brandon Kleck- tat chapter and just completed ner, a seminarian from the Erie her third alternative spring Diocese studying at St. Vincent break trip with the group. She Seminary in Latrobe, was in- said she enjoys the trips because stalled to the ministry of reader of the friendships she forms and March 16 by Bishop Joseph Ad- the memories she creates. amec of Altoona-Johnstown in “You often get to meet a the St. Vincent Basilica. Kleckner family, learn about their back- The Mercyhurst group that worked on a Habitat for Humanity proj- is a 2004 graduate of Villa Ma- ground and work side-by-side ria Academy in Erie and earned with them on their house,” she ect in Goldsboro, N.C., during spring break included: (top row, from left) Zach Pekor, Michelle Clemons, Maria Rambuski, Julie Hranica, a bachelor of arts in philoso- said. “It’s very rewarding.” phy from Gannon University in In addition to the Habitat Emily Warren, Renee Shaw, Sister Michele Schroeck, RSM, (bottom row, from left) Ashley Marin, Caitlin Nicka and Monica Parodi. 2008. trip, Mercyhurst coordinated Taking part in the installation two other alternative spring were, from left, Father David breaks which took place in late Association for Special Educa- took up The Urban Challenge, Brzoska, seminary vice rector; February and early March. tion, a center for individuals with a poverty and justice awareness Father Edward Lohse Sister Michele Schroeck, , vocation ing prelate; Kleckner; Father Schreiber, associate vocation di- disabilities. Students assisted in program in the Philadelphia/ director; Bishop Adamec, install- RSM, director of service learn- the classrooms and worked with Camden, N.J. area through the Nicholas Rouch, vice rector, St. rector; and Father Justin Matro, ing, and seven students complet- occupational therapy, physical Romero Center. Each day they Mark Seminary; Father Stephen OSB, St. Vincent seminary rector. ed the Navajo Alternative Break therapy and art initiatives. volunteered at soup kitchens, in Fort Defiance, Ariz. There Four students, with AmeriCorps shelters, schools and AIDS clin- THOMAS M. they worked at St. Michael’s VISTA volunteer Amelia Diaz, ics. CLICKETT MEMORIALS, INC. Do you remember Venango Catholic students Bowl for Kids' Sake the Parish Priest who heard your First Confession OIL CITY – Students at Ve- nango Catholic High School gave you your First Holy Communion, in Oil City participated in the When Caring Matters! SUHSDUHG\RXIRU&RQ¿UPDWLRQ" Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl GRANITE BRONZE He was there again when you said, “I do,” for Kids' Sake April 2 at Sen- FINAL DATE visited you or a loved one eca Lanes, an annual event L ETTERING at the school. VCHS students COMPETITIVE PRICES while hospitalized, raised more than $2,600 for 814-438-7349 gave you courage in time of need. the event. Pictured is senior Our priests have been and Kevin Kumer. Route 8 South are active in so many facets Union City, PA of our lives even after retirement. They dedicated their lives to us.

-RLQ2WKHU5RPDQ&DWKROLFV )DWKHU&KDUOLH6PLHFK2)0  As the priest shortage increases, (XURSHDQ3LOJULPDJH the number of retired priests will be increasing  – but not nearly 'D\V²'HSDUWV2FWREHU as fast as their health care needs and other soaring retirement expenses.

Celebrate Mass 9 Days! IURP  Retreat for Sisters  The annual collection on  “ The Experience of Angelus” 520(²9$7,&$1²32578*$/²)$7,0$ Good Shepherd Sunday Based on Luke 1:26-39 63$,1²)5$1&(²/285'(6²3$5,6 is our opportunity to say thanks Presented by: Fr. Michael J. Carmola to our retired diocesan priests and Sr. Rose Clarisse Gadoury, SSA Fully Escorted + Two Roman Catholic Priests!  for their many years of faithful service. 7RXU WKH 9DWLFDQ LQFOXGLQJ DQ DXGLHQFH ZLWK 3RSH %HQHGLFW ;9, 7RXU Provide for them the same Sr. Rose Clarisse Gadoury earned her Masters in Spiritual Direction and 5RPH¶V UHOLJLRXV KLJKOLJKWV LQFOXGLQJ 6W 3HWHU¶V %DVLOLFD WKH6LVWLQH went on to achieve a Ph.D. in Psychology and Pastoral Counseling. She &KDSHODQG5RPH¶VILUVWFKXUFKWKH³&DWKHGUDORI5RPHDQGRIWKH:RUOG´ love and generosity taught at Blessed John the 23rd National Seminary for over 30 years, and is &HOHEUDWHWZR0DVVHVLQ5RPHLQFOXGLQJSULYDWH0DVVDW6W3HWHU¶V6HH they provided for us for generations. widely known as a Lecturer, Spiritual Director and Retreat Director. She DQFLHQW 5RPH WKH &RORVVHXP 6SDQLVK 6WHSV 7UHYL )RXQWDLQ %DVLOLFD currently resides with the Sisters of St. Anne in Marlborough, Massachusetts. 6DQWD 0DULD 0DJJLRUH DQG PRUH  )O\ WR /LVERQ 3RUWXJDO YLVLW /DG\ RI )DWLPD &KXUFK FHOHEUDWH SULYDWH 0DVVHV DW WKH %DVLOLFD RI )DWLPD DQG Fr. Michael Carmola is well known in the Syracuse Diocese, having served in $SDULFLRQHV&KDSHORI)DWLPDDQGWRXUWKH%DWDOKDPRQDVWHU\7UDYHOWR various parishes. For the past fourteen years, he has been Director of Christ 6DODPDQFD6SDLQYLVLWWKH2OG&DWKHGUDODQG1HZ&DWKHGUDORYHUQLJKWLQ the King Retreat House, and continues to be in demand as a speaker. He will 9DOODGROLG6SDLQ9LVLW/RXUGHV)UDQFHFHOHEUDWH0DVVDWWKH*URWWRRI be Celebrant at Liturgies throughout the week. /RXUGHV7DNHWKHKLJKVSHHGWUDLQWR3DULVIRUWZRQLJKWV:HGQHVGD\¶V CHRIST THE KING RETREAT HOUSE 1RYHPEHU 3DULVKLJKOLJKWLQFOXGHV7KH6KULQHRIWKH0LUDFXORXV0HGDO ZLWK0DVVDWWKH&KDSHORI2XU/DG\RIWKH0LUDFXORXV0HGDO7KXUVGD\¶V 500 Brookford Road, Syracuse, NY KLJKOLJKWVLQFOXGHDIXOOGD\WRXURI3DULVYLVLWLQJWKH/RXYUH0XVHXP(LIIHO 7RZHU%DVLOLFDRIWKH6DFUHG+HDUWDQGPRUH,QFOXGHV%UHDNIDVWV  Located in a quiet residential area, minutes away from downtown, yet 'LQQHUV'HSDUWIRUKRPH1RYHPEHU