BeA special pro-life Not ministry supports parentsAfraid faced with difficult prenatal diagnoses

Parish From the Bishop Year of Faith Ministry Profile Honoring Ministries, Lent Begins The Justice Embracing February 13 Theater Project Challenges from the bishop

Honoring Ministries, Embracing Challenges

t certain times in the life of the Church, our and more vocations. However, we cannot merely do so in a general focus is drawn ever more clearly to specific way. What about your children and ministries and Gospel challenges. The grandchildren, your family members months of January and February are filled or parishioners? They need to receive an invitation from you to consider the Awith such examples. At the time of this publication, we possibility that God may be calling are celebrating Respect Life Month, Vocations Awareness them to this marvelous life. They need Month, Month of Christian Unity and Catholic Schools to hear of your willingness to support them if God is calling them to be a Week. Above all else, in February we embrace the priest or religious. The Church needs Lenten call to conversion, the radical transformation you to be a vocation director! of our lives. With God’s grace, we seek to turn away In this Year of Faith, parents are reminded that they are the first from sin and be faithful to the Gospel reflected in our teachers of their children in the ways renewed commitment to prayer, fasting and almsgiving. of faith and that this responsibility must be one of their highest Allow me in this article to highlight Week of Christian Unity motivates us priorities. As we celebrate Catholic the realities the Church highlights to celebrate the unity that is ours as Schools Week, the Diocese renews for us in these months: brothers and sisters in Christ and its commitment to assist parents in Respect Life Month reminds us that to pray that the prayer of Jesus is this very special role and to provide each day is an opportunity to give fulfilled: that all may be one. How excellent schools where children can thanks to God for the precious gift important it is that we learn from pray daily and study and celebrate we all too often take for granted: the one another and work together in their Catholic faith five days a week. precious gift of life itself. It is essential bringing the Good News of Christ I am proud of our Catholic Schools that we meditate upon the truth to our communities. In this Year of and express profound thanks to all that we are uniquely created in the Faith, we are also invited to teach, Catholic educators for dedicating image and likeness of God and are share and convey our beliefs with their lives to this beautiful ministry. indeed temples of the Holy Spirit. those who may not understand who In the months of January and This reality inspires us to live purely we are and what we believe. As February the Church, in Her and chastely and to remain strong in we are often reminded, we do not wisdom, reminds us of our call to body and spirit. At the same time we impose; we propose, and we do so in revere the sacredness of all human recognize that our nation, in many truth and love. life and to offer prayer, witness and ways, fails to revere the sacredness of Vocations Awareness Week calls us advocacy on its protection; to work all human life, especially through its to remember the beloved priests for Christian unity; to promote legalization of abortion and the taking and religious who have served vocations to Priesthood and Religious of innocent lives each day. We must us throughout our lives and to Life and to celebrate the great role never grow tired of praying for the end pray for their eternal peace. It is Catholic Schools have played and of abortion, and we must match our also an opportunity to thank and continue to play in the life of the prayer with our witness and advocacy. encourage the priests and sisters Church and the faith formation of We must continue to work for the who generously serve us today our young people. dignity of all human persons without within our Diocese. Please do not We can respond to the call we have exception including the poor, elderly, underestimate what your words of received only with the grace that immigrant, prisoner and all who are so gratitude and support mean to them. comes from God, whose help and easily forgotten and dismissed. All our Also remember that all of us are divine assistance we seek each and efforts to protect life must be sustained called to be vocation directors. We every day of our lives. Through God’s in Jesus, the Source of all Life. must do our part, with God’s grace, special grace in the sacred Season Our belief in the dignity of all to give the Church more priests of Lent may we be drawn closer to persons leads us to treat all God’s and religious. The obvious way is Him and remain ever faithful to the people with respect and love. The to pray for this special intention Gospel.

NC Catholics 2 Jan./Feb. 2013 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org table of contents

inside Most Reverend F. Burbidge this issue PUBLISHER Frank Morock DIRECtOR OF COMMUnICatIOnS From the Bishop Jan./Feb. 2012 • Vol. 10 : Issue 1 2 Honoring Ministries, Richard Reece Embracing Challenges EDItOR In CHIEF Anjanette Wiley aDVERtISInG ManaGER One Faith. One People. Bishop Michael F. Burbidge 8 Three Parishes Inaugurating Father Carlos Arce “Piggyback” Cathedral Rachelle D. Garbarine Father Marcos Leon Campaigns Kate Turgeon Watson Anjanette Wiley COntRIBUtInG WRItERS From the Editor 11 A Year of Inspiration Risa Alt Neil Cippon, Beyer Studio, Inc. Teresa Ciszek Year of Faith COntRIBUtInG PHOtOGRaPHERS 12 Lent Begins February 13 Lettie Banda tRanSLatOR Voices in our Church FAITH Catholic 15 Reflecting on Life in This Rev. Dwight Ezop Year of Faith CHaIRMan – Father Marcos Leon Patrick M. O’Brien PRESIDEnt anD CHIEF EXECUtIVE OFFICER 15 Año de la Fe y Conversión 16 Be Not Afraid: A special pro-life ministry supports Elizabeth Martin Solsburg – Padre Carlos N. Arce EDItORIaL DIRECtOR parents faced with difficult prenatal diagnoses

Jillane Financial EDItORIaL aSSIStant Report Patrick Dally 30 Diocese aRt DIRECtOR of Raleigh Jennifer Bis Lynne Hsu Janna Stellwag Abby Feldpausch GRaPHIC DESIGnERS Derek Melot 4 PROOFREaDInG Jennifer Baron COntRIBUtInG WRItERS InnerWorkings PRInt ManaGEMEnt

NC CathlolicsTM (USPS 715-940) is a membership publi- cation of the Catholic Diocese of Raleigh, 715 Nazareth St., Raleigh, NC 27606. Published Monthly except for February and August. Subscription rates are $16 per year. Individual issues are $2.00. Advertising inquiries, subscription requests and address changes can be sent to 715 Nazareth St., Ra- 38 Parish Ministry Profile: The Justice Theater Project – leigh, NC 27606; 919.821.9700; fax 919.821.9705 or e-mail [email protected]. Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, St. , Raleigh NC or additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: NC Catholics, 715 Nazareth St., Raleigh, NC 27606. ©2013 FAITH CatholicTM, Catholic Diocese of Lansing. ©2013 Catholic Diocese of Raleigh provided con- tent. No portion of NC Catholics may be published, broad- el hispano Católico cast, rewritten or otherwise reproduced or distributed in whole or in part, without prior written authority of FAITH CatholicTM and/or Diocese of Raleigh. For reprint information or other questions regarding use of copyright material, contact NC Catholics, Catholic Diocese of Raleigh. el hispano Católico Obispo Burbidge nuestra catedral “no tengas miedo” Honor a los tres Give the gift of 20 Un ministerio especial 22 Ministerios, 23 parroquias nCCatholics: Order a de pro-vida apoya a los padres abrazando los inauguran la Campaña subscription today que enfrentan diagnósticos Desafíos Catedral “Piggyback” 919.821.9730 prenatales difíciles. – Obispo Michael F. Burbidge local news

Years of Faith Over these 65 years, Maxine has steeped herself in the charism of her religious community, committing herself to “The renewal of the Church is also achieved through the making God’s Providence visible in the world. Inspired by witness offered by the lives of believers: by their very their Founders, Bishop Wilhelm Emmanuel von Ketteler and existence in the world, Christians are called to radiate the Mother Marie de la Roche, the Sisters have a deeply rooted word of truth that the Lord Jesus has left us.” faith vision, leading them to trust that God’s love will provide (Porta Fidei: Apostolic Letter opening the Year of Faith) for them in every way. This year, the Sisters of Divine Providence, based in Pittsburgh, are exploring the meaning On February 2 at 11 a.m., Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of the Lilies of the Field passage for their lives today. will offer the annual Diocesan Mass celebrating the World With no regrets about a life which, Maxine declares, Day for Consecrated Life. On that occasion two Sisters in has been richly blessed, she urges women today to reflect our Diocese will mark anniversaries signifying many years daily on the abundant gifts of their lives and ask, “How of faithful commitment to radiating the love of God by their can I return the love God gives me every day?” God’s living of the vowed, community life in service to others. call is to be found deep within the gifts of our lives, Maxine affirms. We need to use them. For Maxine this involves – Sister Maxine besides teaching -- just being with people, enjoying a good tancraitor, CDP – inspirational movie, reading and traveling. In her spare time, 65 Years Maxine can be found playing Wii with her Sisters in the convent, where competition is enjoyed by all! As a teenager, Sr. Maxine Tancraitor, CDP, Sr. Judy Hallock, CSC – 50 Years loved a uniform. She dreamed of joining the Sr. Judy Hallock, CSC, Army or Navy. The idea will celebrate 50 years of of travel also fascinated consecrated religious life her. “Perhaps I could within the Holy Cross family be a nurse,” of Sisters, priests and she thought. In the Brothers. She is inspired meantime, she was by the Sisters’ Mission being influenced by the Statement which calls her Sisters teaching her, the Sisters of Divine Providence. to share in the prophetic They seemed to be very happy and to genuinely love one mission of Jesus, witness to another. She noticed their generosity and kindness to God’s love for all creation, students and parishioners alike. With strong support from and stand in solidarity with her mom, but resistance from her dad, she donned the the poor and powerless. “uniform” of the Sisters of Divine Providence. Her attraction to Holy Entering when she did, 65 years ago, Maxine began her Cross began after she religious life in the pre-Vatican II Church, but she was soon moved to Washington, DC, in the midst of the reform and renewal of consecrated life and experienced the Holy Cross Sisters as teachers and that was inspired and mandated by the Council documents, as guests at the family dinner table. These women religious especially the Decree on the Appropriate Renewal of were fun-loving and caring. During high school a desire Religious Life. to enter religious life grew stronger within Judy, and she Surprisingly, Maxine became a teacher rather than a nurse. entered just before the Vatican II changes began to shape However, her missionary desires were met when she was the way apostolic religious life was lived. sent to Puerto Rico in her early 30s. There, she taught and As the Sisters of the Holy Cross expanded their later became principal of a high school. As Divine Providence ministries beyond schools, Judy found herself moving would have it, Maxine’s knowledge of Spanish, familiarity from classroom to parish. She earned an MA in Religious with Hispanic cultures, and educational expertise prepared Education in order to be more qualified to provide religious her perfectly for pastoral ministry among the growing education for both children and adults. RCIA and Parish Hispanic population in . For 11 years Maxine social ministries were other aspects of her daily ministry. has lived in community with Sister Theresine Gildea, CDP, She served in several parishes in Austin, Texas, for over and both have been involved in sacramental preparation, 25 years. In addition to external ministries, Judy was faith formation, visits to the sick, and immigration issues elected to leadership positions within her congregation, at Parish in Clinton. For this year serving in that capacity for a total of 15 years. they are joined by Sister Wendolyn, a Sister in temporary Having completed her last term in leadership in 2010, profession from the Dominican Republic. Judy felt called to move from Texas to a Holy Cross

NC Catholics 4 Jan./Feb. 2013 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org Clinton Parish Dedicates new Family Life Center

On Sunday, November 18, 2012, the Most Reverend Michael F. Burbidge dedicated the Father Thomas Frederick Price Family Life Center at Immaculate Conception in Clinton. It was exactly one year since ground was broken for the project, which included a social hall, kitchen and several classrooms for faith formation. Bishop Burbidge celebrated Mass prior to the dedication, with Fr. Mark J. Betti, Pastor of Immaculate Conception, concelebrating. Following the dedication a reception for all those in attendance was held in the new hall.

community in Raleigh. She was attracted to A Place for Women to Gather in Raleigh, a spirituality center begun by two Holy Cross Sisters 13 years ago, and sponsored by their congregation. She felt that her gifts could be used in community with Sr. Mary Margaret Weber, CSC, providing a response to a need for an interfaith center where women have a safe place to explore and deepen their spirituality. This fit with the Holy Cross Sisters’ emphasis on working to empower women for systemic change. What sustains Judy? A deep prayer life, especially her Centering Prayer practice. Believing that life in community enriches and strengthens her, Judy gives high priority You are invited to this aspect of the consecrated life. Spiritual reading to join theWomen Religious continues to nurture her spiritual growth. Interaction with of our Diocese people of other faith traditions keeps her vision wide and enriches her immensely. to celebrate the Along with her ministry in Raleigh, Judy is Director World Day of Prayer of the Holy Cross temporary professed Sisters in North for Consecrated Life America, which leads to travel to Mexico as well as to the Motherhouse in South Bend, Indiana. It is an enlivening and to give special recognition to experience, she states, to accompany newly professed Sisters as they enter more deeply into the Holy Cross way of life and ministry. “Women are looking for support in Sister Judith Hallock, CSC their quest to be the presence of God, especially among for the witness of 50 years of religious profession those most vulnerable. Some of these women are trained AND professionals who desire a stronger spiritual support for Sister Maxine Tancraitor, CDP their service to others,” Judy says. She realizes that in her for the witness of 65 years of religious profession support of these women, her own vocation is sustained and renewed. Saturday, February 2, 2013 Judy would encourage women to consider how religious Church life can help them become more fully human and to make Raleigh, NC a difference in today’s world. Mass at 11:00 a.m. “What the world is in particular need of today is the Principal Celebrant and Homilist: credible witness of people enlightened in mind and heart Most Rev. Michael F. Burbidge by the word of the Lord, and capable of opening the hearts and minds of many to the desire for God and for true life, A reception will follow in the Fallon Center life without end.” (Porta Fidae) local news

St. Luke parishioner Joe Jacobs volunteers once a week CPO Serves Clients on Busiest Day of Year in the CPO warehouse. For the last three years, he has volunteered alongside childhood friend Joe Huray, whom Every thirty seconds. That’s how often a Catholic Parish he grew up with in upstate . Now retired, Mr. Outreach client walked out the door of CPO with food and Jacobs is thankful he has time to share. “I worked for IBM other goods during operating hours on Tuesday, November … traveled a lot, so I didn’t have an opportunity to do a lot, 20, 2012. With more than 50 volunteers helping nearly other than to give money,” he said. “But now … my job is 300 families, it was a busy day for CPO, a Catholic Chari- just to keep the place clean, put the boxes up. I enjoy it. It ties organization in Raleigh that serves families from Wake, gives me great satisfaction.” Johnston and Franklin counties. Volunteer Katharina Megger, who belongs to St. Michael The organization, which provides the largest private food Church in Cary, said she gives back because she once pantry in the Triangle, is seeing record numbers of those received. Born in Croatia to German parents in 1942, in need, explained director Terry Foley. This year CPO has her family fled to Salzburg, Austria, during World War served about 9,700 people each month. Two years ago, II. “Catholic Relief Services came with packages for us approximately 8,000 people were served each month. because we were in camp. They sent food, flour, sugar, Last month CPO served 11,000 families, and Ms. Foley clothing, shoes … the necessities. I remember a pink and expects 12,000 to be served this month. “It will be another white dress,” she said while filling a CPO cart with food for record month for us,” she explained. “I feel like we’re all those in need. “We had a lot of hunger … that’s why I’m so blessed to be able to offer this ministry to the clients we paying back.” serve … they’re here with situational poverty. It’s because Beth Dittman works full time at N.C. State University of the bad economy.” and volunteers at CPO about six times a year. She often As they do six days a week, CPO volunteers worked schedules extra volunteer time during her Christmas break. quickly to serve those in need. Wearing jeans, sneakers As a college and graduate student, she was so busy that and t-shirts, volunteers filled bags with food, checked lists there wasn’t much time for volunteering. But now that she’s for special requests, stocked shelves, pushed pallet jacks a part of CPO, she said she enjoys the camaraderie among weighed down with boxes and delivered food and other volunteers and seeing the excitement on children’s faces necessities to clients’ cars. when they receive a food they particularly like. “Sometimes The Most Reverend Bishop Michael F. Burbidge assisted I’ll run the carts out to families … bless them,” she said CPO clients as well. He also led volunteers in prayer at with a knowing smile. “When you see the kids excited about the start of the day, asking for God’s divine assistance so bananas … that really makes it completely worth it.” those gathered could be instruments of His compassion, At CPO, assisting those in need is a worthy cause every healing love and abiding presence. The Bishop expressed day of the year. “Thanksgiving is a food holiday, so people his gratitude to volunteers and told them it was a privilege want to be able to feed their family,” said Ms. Foley. “But to be with them. hunger never takes a holiday … people are in great need. “To see the overflow of goodness and generosity, it really If you just talk to a few of the clients, you’ll know that.” brings home the true spirit of Thanksgiving,” said Bishop If you would like to donate to help Catholic Parish Burbidge during an on-location taping of the television Outreach address the growing need in Wake, Franklin and program Catholic Perspective. “The volunteers who are Johnston Counties, visit its website at www.cporaleigh.org. here are just incredible, and so the people who come here If you would like to make a donation to any of the other needing assistance are responded to in a timely way and regional offices or to Catholic Charities, visit http://www. with such respect and joy … it’s beautiful to see.” dioceseofraleigh.org/how/social/contribute.aspx

NC Catholics 6 Jan./Feb. 2013 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org Bishop Inaugurates Blessing published in May by the in the celebration,” said Mr. Hall. “Advent, of the Child in the Womb Conference of Catholic Bishops as a while we are remembering the Child in booklet addendum to the Book of Bless- Mary’s womb, was a perfect time for cel- “God, author of all life, bless, we ings / Benicional for use in Dioceses ebrating that every life comes from God.” pray, this unborn child,” the prayer be- throughout the United States. The ceremony is meant to encourage gins. “Give constant protection and grant “The Church gave us this incredible parish prayers for the precious gift of the a healthy birth.” blessing not just for the child and its child in the womb and to foster respect On December 16, Bishop Michael health to be born but also for the mother, for human life within society. Bishop F. Burbidge celebrated the first Rite of father and the community,” said Gerard Burbidge has encouraged parishes in the Blessing of the Child in the Womb in the Hall, Director for the Diocesan Office of Diocese to use this blessing. Diocese of Raleigh at St. Michael the Divine Worship. For more information on the Rite Church in Cary. The new Rite The Blessing can be offered anytime of Blessing of the Child in the Womb: was created to support families awaiting throughout the year as well as outside of http://www.dioceseofraleigh.org/docs/ the birth of their child and to foster re- Mass. “But the preference for the Rite is liturgy/Rite-for-the-Blessing-of-a-Child- spect for human life within society. It was during Mass so the community can share in-the-Womb.pdf

Bishop Burbidge Encourages Your Participation in These Events

On January 19, 2013, at 8:00 aM, Bishop Burbidge will be celebrating the annual Respect Life Mass at St. Catholic Church in Raleigh. Prior to the Mass at 7:45 AM there will be a prayer service memorializing the unborn children of Project Rachel participants. At 10:30 AM, on January 19, 2013 the Bishop will celebrate Mass for youth followed by the third annual Love My Life Rally at 11:30 AM at the Sacred Heart Cathedral in downtown Raleigh. The Rally is an opportunity for Catholic teens to come together in celebration, to connect with others from across the Diocese and to learn more about living and promoting the pro-life culture.

Following the Rally, the youth are encouraged to join us in the nC March for Life at Nash Square at 1:00 PM to offer witness to the sanctity of human life and for the protection of the unborn. On January 25, 2013, the Dioceses of Raleigh and Charlotte will celebrate Mass at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception at 11:30 AM. Following the Mass, Bishop Jugis and Bishop Burbidge will join tens of thousands of people from across the country to offer witness to the sanctity of all human life at the National March for Life on the National Mall. For additional information on these events or on bus schedules to DC, refer to your parish bulletin or contact the Office of Pro-Life at 919.719.8267. One Faith, One People

Ann Church. Fr. Marcos Leon, pastor of the parish, said the community is limited in where it can hold receptions and faith formation classes. “’Our Dreams’ is the name of our cam- paign,” said Fr. Leon. “The title serves as a reminder to our faithful that we are a community under construction, not just spiritually, but physically, as we work toward completing the buildings of our master building plan.” St. Ann’s Cathedral Campaign Goal is $746,371, which includes $210,746 for its share of the 2012 and 2013 BAA. The goal will be in addition to the amount needed to con- struct the parish hall. Holy Redeemer by the Sea Church is finalizing the elements of its campaign, which it plans to begin in February.

Campaign Leaders three Parishes Express Gratitude

Inaugurating “Piggyback” When completed, the success of Cathedral Campaigns the Cathedral Campus Campaign will be due to the faithful in the Diocese who supported the project with their s of December 19, more than 18,000 families generous donations and prayers. have pledged over $51 million dollars in support Hundreds of individuals will have of the Cathedral Campus Campaign, with many spent thousands of hours in support of the project on the parish level as parishes continuing their efforts to reach or sur- well as on the Diocesan level. Many Apass their good faith goals. volunteers have expressed gratitude for being asked to assist with the Three parishes will begin their “This facility Campaign. Many have found it to be campaigns early this year. St. Michael is a key amenity spiritually enriching. the Archangel Church in Cary, St. Ann required for our Kevin Green, Church in Clayton and Holy Redeemer rapidly growing a parishioner at by the Sea in Kill Devil Hills will be parish,” said Sacred Heart conducting “piggyback” campaigns, Fr. Douglas Cathedral, is a combining the Cathedral Campaign Reed, pastor of member of the Fr. Douglas Reed with specific needs of their parishes. St. Michael. “It parish Steering Their respective Cathedral Campaign will allow us to meet the needs of our Committee. He Kevin and Lauren goals include their assigned 2012 and parish school, address liturgical needs, described the Green 2013 Bishop’s Annual Appeal. as well as accommodate the expanding ongoing experience as “enlightening St. Michael the Archangel has a demands of our multiple ministries.” and rewarding.” He said when the combined goal of $4.35 million. Of Construction Bishop asked him to serve he didn’t that, $2,290,000 is the Cathedral of a new parish hesitate and welcomed the opportu- Campus Goal, $844,000 is for two hall will also nity. Raised Baptist, Kevin became years of the BAA with $1 million be the focus of Catholic in 1987 during his final year designated for a much needed Parish the combined of college. Since then he has been Activity Center. St. Michael Church is campaign that actively involved in a variety of minis- the largest church in the Diocese with will be con- tries, including coordinating an RCIA approximately 6,000 families. ducted by St. Fr. Marcos Leon program with his wife, Lauren.

NC Catholics 8 Jan./Feb. 2013 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org “Having gone through the RCIA welcoming,” Lauren said. “There is an attitude of service. I feel confident program and then being involved with no doubt the Cathedral video, which that the reverence with which the it was most rewarding,” Kevin said. was shown at committee has gone about its work “But having the opportunity to help lay the receptions, will be reflected in the project once it the groundwork for our new cathedral helped explain is completed.” is even more exciting, since the Holy the need in Fr. Carlos Arce, Vicar for Hispanic Name of Jesus Cathedral will live on our growing Ministry, said he is very pleased for generations and touch the lives of Diocese.” with the financial response from the many people.” Ms. Elisabeth Hispanic parishes. “Many of them Being a member of the Steering Pfohl Sasser, a Mrs. Elisabeth have participated in the construction Committee gave me a clearer parishioner at Pfohl Sasser with of little chapels and large churches in insight into the inner workings of the St. Francis of her husband at their countries of origin. They know Church. When I heard that we had Assisi Church their daughter’s the satisfaction of contributing to the surpassed the $50 million mark, that in Raleigh, baptism. work of the Lord,” Fr. Arce said. was a moment of elation. I’m thankful echoed Kevin Green’s gratitude. “In my presentation at the Hispanic for being asked to be part of this As a member of the Building parish receptions,” he said, “I important project.” Committee, chaired by Rev. Msgr. explained that God invites us to For the Greens, working on the D. Brockman, Vicar General participate in this magnificent work Cathedral Campaign project was of the Diocese, Ms. Sasser said, “I in the same way that our Lady of a family affair. Lauren, who is the feel fortunate to have been asked to Guadalupe invited Juan Diego in director of the Diocesan African serve and to contribute to this historic 1531. They feel blessed to continue Ancestry Ministry Office, represented project. The diversity, commitment the work of our Lady and know that the Diocese at several parish and capabilities represented on the this opportunity is a privilege.” receptions in Blocks 1 and 2. “It Building Committee, and the devotion “I remember one family who said was an honor to share my thoughts of those who have served on it to do that when they came on the way to and experiences on behalf of the what is truly in the best interest of the this country through the desert, they Cathedral Campaign and the work faithful, are what I will remember most promised God they would support the of my office, which is funded by the from my participation.” Church so that more people would Bishop’s Annual Appeal. The people “The committee,” Ms. Sasser come to know Him. They recognize who attended the receptions were added, “truly approaches its work with that this is the call to serve the Lord.”

Father thomas Price from the state,” explained Flood about Father Price, who Catholic Heritage Society to Honor Donors purchased 400 acres of land near downtown Raleigh in 1897. Since then that purchase has strengthened the diocese, and According to statistics, only 50 parts of the land were home to an orphanage and a Catholic percent of have a will. And high school. In the future, the land will serve as home to those that do often have out of date Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral. documents. It’s no secret that taking With 13 years of experience in planned giving, Flood works the time to plan and give generously with potential donors and sometimes their representatives, such takes effort. as accountants and attorneys. It’s often a collaborative effort and The Diocese of Raleigh will honors its keeping the lines of communication open is important in order donors who have left bequests through to understand donors’ privacy expectations and intentions. wills, living trusts, endowments and other types of estate gifts “Somebody might originally have a vague intention like ‘I’m with membership in the newly named Father Thomas Price leaving it to the diocese,’ but what they would really like is for it Catholic Heritage Society. Member-donors will be invited to an to go to the seminarian program, or pro-life work or to their par- annual appreciation dinner, as well as a Mass in their honor. ish,” he said. “A bequest gives a very personal gift,” said Ryan Flood, The Father Thomas Price Catholic Heritage Society, formerly diocesan director of special gifts. “This society is a way to give named the Catholic Heritage Society, will become official this recognition to people who have made a significant donation, month in the Diocese of Raleigh. The society currently has 87 even though it may not happen during their lifetime.” living members and 49 deceased members. While many dioceses throughout the country have Heritage “When someone goes to the effort for planned giving, it’s Society programs that work in similar ways, the Diocese of important to say to them, ‘thank you so much … this is very im- Raleigh chose to link Father Price’s name to its group because portant,’” said Flood, who added that the growth of the Diocese Father Price’s life represents legacy and heritage for so many. makes giving more important than ever. “Charitable gifts that are “He’s the apostle of North Carolina. He’s the first priest left now will have a great impact in the years to come.” local news

Holy name of Jesus Stained Glass on Display at Catholic Center

Three restored panels of the As- cension Church stained glass windows acquired for Holy Name of Jesus Ca- thedral arrived at the Catholic Center in Raleigh on Tuesday morning, De- cember 11. An artist- technician from Beyer Studio, a Philadelphia company specializing in the restoration of historic stained glass windows, installed them in a specially constructed light box in the lobby of the Center. The windows were created in 1927- 28 for Ascension of Our Lord Catholic Church in Philadelphia, and were the original work of Paula Himmelsbach Balano, the first woman in the United States to own her own stained glass studio and a renowned artist of what was called the Neo-Gothic School. An additional six windows were the work of James Melcher Kase of Reading, PA. Ascension of Our Lord Catholic Church, constructed in 1914, closed officially this year due to the deteriorat- ing condition of the building. But James McCrery, the architect of Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral, learned that Ascension’s treasured stained glass could be salvaged and used for the new cathedral in Raleigh. He contacted Beyer Studio Philadelphia company specializing in the restoration of historic stained glass windows. During the past 25 years, they have relocated hundreds of stained glass windows from early 20th Century churches; virtually all of these were incorporated into new Catholic churches. Beyer agreed to take on the as “breathtaking.” The three lead and inspiring work of art which will grace our project. “The effort to preserve hundreds glass panels weigh some 200 pounds, new Cathedral.” of stained glass windows through reloca- the light box another 250. The display The restoration of all forty of the tion has been a great success,” said is seven feet high, representing the windows acquired will be a heroic Joseph K. Beyer, the President of Beyer center of a window which will be undertaking, and will not begin Studio. “But it will be a singular triumph almost 18 feet tall. until construction starts on the new if this entire collection can be kept intact. “The stained glass windows for our Cathedral. A total of 86 crates will be It will not be simply the preservation of new Cathedral are part of a rich history required to hold the windows, which windows, but the recognition of an entire that will continue to reflect the Light of will be shipped to Raleigh and stored in school of early 20th Century Catholic Christ in bright future of our Diocese,” a secure location generously donated stained glass.” Bishop Michael F. Burbidge said. “I by a Catholic businessman. Photos The panels on display are from an invite all the faithful in our Diocese to of more of the windows can be seen aisle window depicting the Adoration visit the Catholic Center at 715 Naza- in the latest issue of NC Catholics of the Magi, and those viewing them reth Street in Raleigh to view this small magazine, and online on the Diocese of as they were installed described them portion of a stunning and reverence- Raleigh Facebook page.

NC Catholics 10 Jan./Feb.July/August 2013 2012 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org | www.NCCatholics.org from the editor

Catholic Charities receives $75,000 Grant from a.J. Fletcher Foundation

In December the A.J. Fletcher Foundation an- nounced a three-year, $75,000 grant to Catholic a Year of Inspiration Charities. The gift will benefit the Support Circle Program, which is an ecumenical effort coordinated by re you like me? As the new year begins, do you Catholic Charities and CASA, Inc. to help homeless look back on the old one and think about the families transition to permanent housing and improve events and people that made an impact on you, or their ability to earn more through job skills training. maybe even changed you? For me, 2012 held an Catholic Charities received $35,000 of the unusual number of these “highlights,” and many of grant in 2012. It will receive $25,000 this year Athem involved my work for the Diocese. and $15,000 in 2014. The funds will help provide case management services for the families who The most powerful was my op- participate in the program. portunity to go on a mission trip “This grant really enables us to work with a total of to the Honduran sister parish of St. 15 to 18 families a year. Without it, we would only Mary parish in Wilmington. The be able to serve half that many,” said Rick Miller- faith of the people there, despite Haraway, director of the Raleigh Regional Office of grinding poverty, and the dedica- Catholic Charities. tion of their priests, was some- The grant continues a long history of support thing I couldn’t have imagined from the A.J. Fletcher Foundation to Catholic without witnessing it. Since then Charities and the Support Circle Program. Barbara I’ve spoken with people who have Goodmon, President of the Foundation, was gone on missions throughout the instrumental in securing community support when world, and learned that this faith Raleigh Wake Partnership initiated the program and dedication are by no means in 2007. Since then Support Circle has helped unique: Where people have little, they rely all the more on the Lord. more than 200 people. And 95 percent of Support It’s probably true that no life is trouble-free. And not everyone Circle’s families have maintained permanent housing reacts to trouble the same way. Especially inspiring to me are people for at least a year after participating in the program. (like the parents who agreed to tell their stories in this month’s cover “This program would not exist without the support of feature) who use the lessons from these experiences to alleviate the Barbara Goodmon and the A.J. Fletcher Foundation,” troubles of others. said Miller-Haraway, who added that Mrs. Goodmon Last spring, while writing a story called “Couples Helping has also hosted fundraising events for Support Circle Couples,” I had the pleasure of meeting Jeanne and Marty Driver. A and invited other people to become donors. crisis in their relationship came close to ending their marriage. But “We selected the Support Circle Program for two they loved each other enough to do the hard work of repairing the reasons,” Mrs. Goodmon said. “First of all, the pro- damage and, even more admirably, loved others enough to want to gram has a history of sustainability and excellent out- help them find happiness. comes. It really works and gets many church families I saw the same spirit in two men I interviewed last winter for a involved. Secondly, I believe that Catholic Charities story on addiction. Some people would find the daily struggle of re- does wonderful work serving people in need. They covery burden enough, yet both these men were actively involved in serve all people in need, regardless of ethnicity or counseling other addicts. One of my favorite quotes of the year came denomination, with respect and compassion.” from one of these men, Diego, who said, “My youngest daughter was The Support Circle Program, which matches at a festival a while ago and a lady asked her, ‘What does your father homeless families with teams of mentors and do?” She said, ‘He saves lives.’ So now I say, ‘Yeah, I save lives. But in advocates from local churches, has received two reality I’m saving my own.’” national awards – a Home for Every American Award What all these “highlight” people have in common is the strength from the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness they draw from faith. As our Bishop often reminds us, if we trusted and an Arnold Andrews Award for Collaborative only in our own power and resources, trials and challenges could Excellence from Catholic Charities USA. quickly overwhelm us. But if we trust in God’s amazing grace, we “This is the best program that I have been involved will always be able to look at the last year with gratitude, and face with in my 20-plus years of doing social work and the new one with hope. – Rich Reece is editor of NC Catholics social ministry,” said Miller-Haraway. “And it’s the best program because it’s truly empowering people to move thanks for your letters and emails and kind sugges- out of poverty. And it’s creating real relationships be- tions. You can reach me at 715 Nazareth Street, Raleigh, NC tween people from very different parts of society.” 27606 or [email protected]. Year of Faith

publications and social media The exhortation tries to ease the fears of Catholics who have not gone to confes- sion for some time. “We Bishops and priests are eager to help you if you experi- ence difficulty, hesitation, or uncertainty about approaching the Lord in this sacra- ment,” it says. “If you have not received this healing sacrament in a long time, we are ready to welcome you. We, whom Christ has ordained to minister this for- giveness in His name, are also approach- ing this sacrament, as both penitents and ministers, during Lent. We want to offer ourselves to you as forgiven sinners seek- ing to serve in the Lord’s name.” The exhortation will be made public Lent Begins February 13 in time to allow for Dioceses to prepare for Lent 2013 and to offer the sacrament In the Year of Faith, the Holy Father and U.S. at times that are “convenient and plenti- Bishops emphasize greater use of Penance ful,” according to a background docu- ment on the exhortation. Benedict XVI has said, “The hope, and sacrificial love in the Eucha- Speaking on “Catholic Perspective,” new evangelization ... begins in the rist. By the grace of the Holy Spirit, we the television program of the Diocese of confessional!” As Lent commences – repent, let go of any pattern of sin, grow Raleigh, Bishop Burbidge noted the Holy Ash Wednesday is February 13 – U.S. in the life of virtue and witness to a joy- Father’s remark about the new evan- Bishops are heeding the Holy Father’s ful conversion.” gelization and the confessional. “Why invitation to organize “penitential Bishop Ricken, in remarks Nov. 12, would he say that?” the Bishop asked. celebrations, particularly during Lent, in said the document was prepared so “Because this sacrament puts us on our which all can ask for God’s forgiveness, that it “might assist in the conversion knees before the Lord. We acknowledge especially for sins against faith.” of hearts for Jesus Christ, which is at that we are sinners and that we can do On November 13, the Bishops over- the heart of evangelization.” He added nothing without His grace.” The Bishop whelmingly approved an exhortation the exhortation is “rooted in the teach- said, “The exhortation reminds us that encouraging Catholics to take advantage ings” of the Catechism of the Catholic this beautiful sacrament of forgiveness of the Sacrament of Penance, also known Church. The brevity of this statement and God’s mercy is always available to as reconciliation. The text, which had is intended to foster a wide dissemi- us, and should be received frequently, not been published as this issue of NCC nation in parish bulletins, Diocesan not just during Lent.” went to print, was prepared by the Bish- ops’ Committee on Evangelization and Catechesis, chaired by Bishop David L. Lumen Gentium: I. Mystery light of Christ to all men, a light brightly Ricken of Green Bay, Wis. of the Church visible on the countenance of the The exhortation quotes from the Church. Since the Church is in Christ Gospel of John after Jesus arose and told Throughout the Year of Faith, which like a sacrament or as a sign and instru- the Apostles: “Receive the Holy Spirit. also marks the 50th anniversary of ment both of a very closely knit union Whose sins you forgive are forgiven the 2nd Vatican Council and the 20th with God and of the unity of the whole them.” In so doing, the exhortation says, anniversary of the Catechism of the human race, it desires now to unfold Jesus was “proclaiming that all the suf- Catholic Church, NCC will publish more fully to the faithful of the Church fering he had just endured was in order brief excerpts from Council documents and to the whole world its own inner to make available the gifts of salvation and from the Catechism. nature and universal mission. and forgiveness.” It adds, “In the Sacrament of Penance (¶1) Christ is the Light of nations. (¶2) the eternal Father, by a free and Reconciliation, we meet the Lord, Because this is so, this Sacred Synod and hidden plan of His own wis- who wants to grant forgiveness and gathered together in the Holy Spirit dom and goodness, created the the grace to live a renewed life in Him. eagerly desires, by proclaiming the whole world. His plan was to raise In this sacrament, He prepares us to Gospel to every creature, to bring the men to a participation of the divine receive Him with a lively faith, earnest

NC Catholics 12 Jan./Feb. 2013 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org the transmission of Divine Immaculata Students Revelation: Catechism of “Grab Faith by the Horns” the Catholic Church Each year the youth group at Immaculate 96 What Christ entrusted to the Conception (IC) Parish in Durham designs a t-shirt apostles, they in turn handed on for the young people to wear to service projects by their preaching and writing, and other group activities. “Since this is the Year under the inspiration of the Holy of Faith,” said Margie Burton, IC Youth Minister, Spirit, to all generations, until “I suggested they might want to do something with that theme. “ The Catholic Christ returns in glory. youth from the Bull City came up with a design that incorporated the slogan “Grab Faith by the Horns.” “We have some 280 young people in the group,” 97 “Sacred Tradition and Sacred Margie Burton said, “about 40% Latino, and they all liked the idea.” The youth Scripture make up a single sacred bought the shirts in both long and short sleeves, and the supply quickly sold out. deposit of the Word of God” (DV 10) in which, as in a mirror, the pil- Year of Faith Float Sails grim Church contemplates God, in Rocky Mount Christmas Parade the source of all her riches. On December 2, the “bark of Peter” sailed 98 “The Church, in her doctrine, in the Rocky Mount town Christmas Parade. A life and worship, perpetuates float built by students and parents of Our Lady and transmits to every genera- of Perpetual Hel (OLPH) Catholic School and tion all that she herself is, all modeled on the Year of Faith logo was one of more that she believes” (DV 8 # 1). than 70 floats in the annual event. Dianne Young, OLPH Director of Faith Development, supervised 99 Thanks to its supernatural sense the planning and building of the float. “This is the of faith, the People of God as a second year we’ve been in the parade,” she said. whole never ceases to welcome, “Besides calling attention to the Year of Faith, the to penetrate more deeply and float is also a good way to advertise the school and to live more fully from the gift of plug Catholic education.” divine Revelation. Mrs. Young said that OLPH School has been a part of the Rocky Mount com- munity since 1939. “That’s 73 years of Catholic education,” she said. Several 100 The task of interpreting the adults and children costumed as rode on the float. Mrs. Young dressed as Word of God authentically has St. Marianne Cope Marianne Cope, O.S.F., also known as the Saint Marianne been entrusted solely to the of Molokai, (January 23, 1838 – August 9, 1918), a German-born Ameri- Magisterium of the Church, that can who was a member of the Sisters of Saint Francis of Syracuse, New York. is, to the Pope and to the bish- Known for her charitable works and virtuous deeds, she spent many years caring ops in communion with him. for the lepers on the island of Molokai in Hawaii. St. Peter Faculty Retreats Foster life. Fallen in , God the Father “a Community of Faithful Learners” did not leave men to themselves, but ceaselessly offered helps to salva- In Greenville, NC, St. Peter Catholic School tion, in view of Christ, the Redeemer faculty and staff have scheduled five retreats -- “who is the image of the invisible “Faith Community Building” Development Days – God, the firstborn of every creature”. during the Year of Faith. The retreats were planned All the elect, before time began, the by the school’s religion teachers, and comprise a half-day of prayer, meditation, Father “foreknew and pre- destined collaboration, and presentations by visiting facilitators. Among the presenters are to become conformed to the image Fr. Tony DeCandia, Campus Minister at NC State University, Sr. Rose Marie Ad- of His Son, that he should be the ams, Executive Director of Catholic Formation and Evangelization, and Fr. Justin firstborn among many brethren”. Kerber, C.P., Pastor of St. Peter. He planned to assemble in the holy The retreats are part of a ten-point action plan for incorporating the Year of Church all those who would believe Faith into St. Peter’s School Community. The steps include beginning classes in Christ. Already from the beginning with prayer, encouraging school families and staff to attend Reconciliation before of the world the foreshadowing of the Advent and Lent, and a monthly “Community Building” message from Principal Church took place. Dr. Joseph Nelson “to foster love, compassion and support of each other with our Catholic faith as our foundation.” local news

about topics such as serenity, religious freedom and forgiveness. The Poiriers and their children – Joseph, 17, John Paul, 13, and Therese, 7 – travel the country visiting churches, prisons, military bases, schools and hospitals. They travel internationally, too, to destinations such as France, Italy and Germany. It’s a life- style that began when Joseph was just six-months old and they journeyed from their home in Arizona to Canada in a minivan that blew blue smoke, recalls Mr. Poirier with a laugh. For her part, Mrs. Poirier is the “brains and the heart” of the ministry, according to her husband. She inspires the family to pray and leads the home-schooling effort. And, as often as people ask, she bravely shares her testimony of go- ing through three abortions between the ages of 18 and 22, before she met Mr. Poirier. She’s spoken at various events, including the 2011 Walk for Life – San Francisco. When Mr. Poirier speaks about her past experiences, he does so with unmistakable gentleness, noting that she’s living proof that God rebuilds, restores and forgives. “This is our family,” he explained during a recent visit to the Diocese of Raleigh, during which he held a benefit concert for Birthchoice. “And that doesn’t mean everyone is singing like the von Trapp family, but it’s just that we’re still together … to me, that’s ministry. Staying together is a sign … an encouragement.” Guitar in hand, he performs for children, teens and adults, playfully insisting that his adult ADHD (attention deficit hy- peractivity disorder) is a gift. “I can flick channels fast enough to meet whatever group I’m with. So far, it works,” he said with a grin. When performing for young children, he tells stories about angels, siblings and how he used to be squirmy in the pew when he was a youngster, preferring to sing with a choir than simply sit and listen. With somber adults, the occasion is retreat-like. But if those gathered show an Michael John Poirier inclination toward laughter, it’s jovial event. In every case, he performs without a set list, preferring to sing spontaneously, Sings for Life or “free flow” as he calls it. Bald with dark eyebrows and brown eyes, the 52-year-old Michael Poirier has imagined life in a house. He’s pictured has released more than ten CDs during his career. He used to chickens in a yard and his children in bedrooms of their have three sources of income: a $2,000 stipend for traveling to a own. He’s thought about trading a post office box for a street parish to perform, free-will offerings and the sale of his CDs after address. He’s even considered the weekday, desk job his Masses. But things changed in June. “It was a conflict inside of mother-in-law suggested. me,” said Mr. Poirier. Through prayer, he said, it was impressed But regularity isn’t his thing. He’s a musician who doesn’t on him to not require a stipend, to stop taking free-will offerings read music. He’s a cancer survivor who sought treatment while and to stop selling CDs in churches. traveling. He’s a dad who will drive through the night to make it Today, he said, he earns income by accepting donations. With to morning Mass in a town he’s never been to. And he’s a former detail he remembers many of the donors, from the “protestant in homeowner who currently prefers a motorhome. Oklahoma” to the “Quaker woman in Portland” and the “Catho- “Neither of us ever wanted a white-picket-fence kind of family lic couple in Arizona.” His website, www.prayerbreaks.org, has life,” said Mr. Poirier about himself and his wife Mary. Instead, 153 sponsors, people who donate around $10 (or more) every they wanted a ministry. While his family’s living circumstances month. He still offers CDs, but only for donations and not in a – two parents, three kids and one five-pound dog inside an RV – church. For Mr. Poirier – whose motorhome gets seven miles per may garner much attention, this pro-life singer and songwriter’s gallon - the finances are about trust. message isn’t about wheels turning on a highway. “We’re trusting that God allows what he allows,” said Mr. It’s about the sanctity of life, God’s mercy, praying from the Poirier. “We have been learning a rhythm to the road … to travel heart, loving one another and learning to discern God’s will. The slower, stay longer in some places. We’re trying to keep our family ministers through actions, words and Mr. Poirier’s music, balance and keep our peace so we can keep doing this.”

NC Catholics 14 Jan./Feb. 2013 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org V o i c e s i n o u r c h u r c h

pastor’s perspective la naturaleza de nuestra fe

Reflecting on Life año de la Fe in this Year of Faith y Conversión

uman life is sacred because from its beginning it l 22 de febrero comenzamos el involves the creative action of God and it remains forever in a special relationship with the Cre- Tiempo de Cuaresma. Una vez ator, who is its sole end. God alone is the Lord más la Iglesia nos invita a con- Hof life from its beginning until its end: no one can under any vertirnos al Señor reconociendo circumstance claim for himself the right directly to destroy an nuestros pecados y cambiando de vida. innocent human being.” (CCC #2258) E Durante el Año de la Fe este llamado a la The New Year brings with it vida nueva adquiere un significado espe- much anticipation and hope for better things to come. cial ya que Fe y conversión están profun- We busy ourselves with damente conectadas. resolutions to lose weight, eat right, exercise more, quit En primer lugar la fe, smoking, pray more; and como virtud teológica, es the list of things we want un don gratuito de Dios to improve about ourselves (Flp. 4,4) y a la vez respu- seems to be endless. What is esta libre del hombre it about the beginning of a (Rom 16.26). Pero la fe no es new year that makes us stop ciega (Dei Verbum 5) porque to take the time and closely no sería digna ni del ser examine our lives? humano que es racional, Perhaps it is living to see another year that inspires such ni de nuestro Dios que introspection? We think about all those who started out 2012 respeta nuestra libertad. with us and have been called home to our Heavenly Father. Fe y razón van juntas How fitting it is that the Church recognizes our natural inclina- porque la fe siempre tion this time of year to focus on life by having us focus our buscará la intelección attention and energy on protecting the life and human dignity racional. Sinembargo es la gracia de Dios la que eleva nuestra of each human. razón para llegar a la fe. Ya nos lo decía San Agustín: “la fe, si African Ancestry cultural traditions have “always valued life and no se piensa, es nula”. Debido a las limitaciones de nuestro the mystery of its transmission and growth. Children have always lenguaje humano Dios se encarnó en Jesús para mostrarnos been a sign of hope, the loss of this perspective is a cultural and mejor su amor. Sus acciones en nuestra vida diaria nunca nos spiritual impoverishment for us as a people…” (What We Have Seen and obligan a creer porque Él siempre quiere nuestra aceptación Heard: A Pastoral Letter on Evangelization from the Black Catholic Bishops of the United libre y amorosa. En otras palabras, la fe es fundamentalmente States, September 9, 1984)” una relación de amor y confianza entre Dios y el hombre que This year in the Diocese we will again have many opportu- se vive en Cristo y su Iglesia por obra del Espíritu Santo, en el nities to show our respect for life from conception to natural pleno ejercicio de la libertad. death (ProLife liturgies, the youth rally at Sacred Heart Ca- En segundo lugar, la vida cristiana es una llamada con- thedral, MLK, Jr. liturgy and service project are just a few). As stante a la conversión (metanoia), necesaria para entrar al we celebrate the Year of Faith, we also commemorate the 60th Reino (Mc 1, 14-15). Al igual que la fe, la conversión es un don anniversary of the pastoral letter of Most Rev. Vincent Waters de Dios y una tarea humana. Es don de Dios porque es Él on desegregation in the Diocese of Raleigh. This year is a great mismo quien está en la base, quien siempre toma la iniciativa opportunity we have to evaluate and consider improving our y provoca en nosotros el deseo de responder a su amor. Es ministry and service to embrace everyone. tarea humana porque depende de nosotros la respuesta de So this year, instead of just attending the Pro-Life liturgy, colaborar con la gracia de Dios. Significa llenarse del Señor perhaps we should show up and let our voices be heard at the y dejarse llevar por el Espíritu que guía a la Iglesia hasta la March for Life. Our presence will send a message about our consumación de la obra de Jesús. La conversión es pues, un stance on life issues, and the exercise will be good for us too. proceso permanente que implica liberarse del pecado, vivir en gracia y construir Su Reino. – Father Marcos Leon, Vicar for African Ancestry Catholics – Padre Carlos N. Arce, Vicario para los Hispanos BeA special Notpro-life ministry supports Afraid parents faced with difficult prenatal diagnoses

s the sun streams through the windows of Risa and Jeremy Alt’s New Bern home on this warm autumn afternoon, it castes shadows across the family room where a photo of their twin daughters is proudly displayed. AWrapped in a bright, blue frame, the photo captures the newborns facing one another, their arms touching, as though they are in a sisterly embrace. Addyson “Addy” Lu and Allyson “Ally” May were born conjoined twins on August 31, 2011. They died 13 days later. Describing her daughters as both a miracle and a gift from God, Risa says, “He [God] gave us a lifetime in 13 days.”

NC Catholics 16 Jan./Feb. 2013 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org BeA special Notpro-life ministry supports Afraid parents faced with difficult prenatal diagnoses

By Rachelle D. Garbarine cover story

From the start of the pregnancy, Risa says she knew specialists so they were prepared to welcome their daughters. something was amiss. What the Alts learned during a routine Still, continuing with such a pregnancy is not easy. There is, ultrasound 16 weeks into Risa’s pregnancy was that they were however, a small but growing network of support groups for the having conjoined twin daughters who shared a heart and parents who decide to do so. One is Be Not Afraid [BNA], which whose chances of survival were very slim. From hearing the offers free pastoral care, grief education, and hands-on support two heartbeats to hearing the diagnosis, “I went from cloud 9 to parents faced with difficult prenatal diagnoses. Started in to all the stages of grief to shock,” says Jeremy, a Marine Cobra 2002 as an online initiative, it now comprises a community Helicopter Pilot at Camp Lejeune. of parents and professionals who have experienced or worked When the doctor presented their options - terminate the closely with issues surrounding such diagnoses. pregnancy or see a specialist and continue with it - Risa and The Alts sought help from the four-year-old Be Not Afraid Jeremy quickly and firmly said they would proceed. The Alts, community in the Charlotte Diocese; so did Amy and Karl who are Catholic and have three other children, wanted to Horlander of Apex. The Horlanders carried to term their son, meet their daughters and share time with them, no matter how Andrew Benedict, who had hydrocephalus or water on the brief. “I knew that it wouldn’t be easy but that we had to fight brain, and died an hour and 27 minutes after his birth on for them as long and as hard as we could to give them every June 30, 2010. Now, a similar ministry, patterned after BNA of chance to live,” Jeremy says. “We wanted to look back and feel Charlotte, is developing in the Diocese of Raleigh, though its peace, not regret.” Their decision led them on a painful yet name has not yet been determined. richly rewarding journey that they say changed not only their When asked what such a ministry will mean to the Diocese lives, but also the lives of others their daughters touched. The of Raleigh Anne Walther of Cary, who will head it, says, “The couple, both in their early 30s, feels their journey may offer ministry will mean direct and personal support for families some measure of comfort to other families grappling with the dealing with poor prenatal diagnosis.” She goes on to tell same thorny decision. the story of how she and her husband, who lost a baby in The National Society of Genetic Counselors estimates that just 2010, had not received “a shred of support” in their decision 20 percent of parents choose to carry babies to term despite fatal to continue with the pregnancy, despite their doctor’s fatal diagnoses. The Alts researched medical options and sought out diagnosis. She says their experience would have been far less

NC Catholics 18 Jan./Feb. 2013 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org “emotionally traumatizing” if they had received assistance, and funeral plans and, just as important, creating memories. That were able to celebrate the pregnancy. “That’s what BNA does,” involves working with a photographer who takes photos at no she says, “and that’s what we want to bring to the Triangle.” charge, before and after the birth, constructing memory books, Tracy Winsor, a co-founder of BNA of Charlotte and a mother and providing baby gifts, from baptismal gowns and blankets to of six who lost two babies to miscarriages, agrees and adds, booties and hats. It also involves having a BNA member at the “this work is life-giving.” She describes BNA support as one birth, if possible. that creates a community of care around parents as they seek Tracy Winsor was at the hospital when the Horlanders’ son, to honor the life of their baby. She says with 25 trained peer Andrew Benedict, was born, though she did not get to meet him ministers and volunteers the Charlotte ministry annually serves before he died. “But, she held him and loved him for who he 10 families who carry babies to term and 10-15 more families was...,” says Amy. “When it was time to let Andrew go, I simply who request outreach assistance or other information. Through couldn’t lay him down. Tracy lovingly carried him away for me, its website [www.benotafraid.net/nc] the group offers articles, in her arms. That one moment of his life is etched on my heart.” resources, and testimonials to help families find counseling, and Tracy was with the Alts shortly after their daughters were “offer encouragement to those who may be afraid to continue” born, and is their honorary godmother. So were members of the with the pregnancy. Though the Alts never considered couple’s family who drove from Virginia and Florida to North terminating their pregnancy, they turned to BNA of Charlotte, Carolina to lend support. Additionally, Dr. Martin McCaffrey, “because we were desperate and lost,” Risa says, noting that she their neonatologist who they met through BNA, helped prepare and Jeremy never again felt alone and that the group connected the couple for the delivery. He was also on hand “to fight them with other families with conjoined twins. for the babies and make sure they were treated with respect, Indeed, parents who carry babies with fatal conditions treated like surviving babies,” says Risa. Just before Ally and to term face special challenges, and another set of difficult Addy came into the world Monsignor Gerald Lewis, of St. Paul questions. What, for instance, do you say to others when Catholic Church in New Bern, the couple’s parish, led a group the baby’s due date nears, or when they ask about the baby’s of 20 medical staff members in prayer. After the babies’ birth, gender? What do parents tell their other children? At each Monsignor Lewis immediately baptized them. encounter, parents must decide how much information to In the 13 days Addy and Ally lived, they met their parents, reveal to others about their babies or about themselves. siblings, and extended family, were baptized and given the The questions were particularly punishing for Amy sacrament of the sick. The Alts cherished that time with their Horlander, who moved from Indiana to North Carolina with daughters. They still do. For them, having the chance to hold her husband and other children when she was 26 weeks their girls and see them open their eyes was a gift. “We watched pregnant with Andrew. In an e-mail, Amy writes, “How many a miracle, the very miracle I prayed for,” Risa says. “He [God] more times was I going to have to pretend to be joyful and gave them 13 days that no one said they would have.” excited when a stranger asked me when I was due, was I ready, At home on this sun-splashed Sunday afternoon, Risa and and are the kids excited?” Without family nearby, Amy turned Jeremy talk lovingly about Ally and Addy and about how they to BNA for comfort. “The other BNA members listened when have found the joy in giving birth and saying goodbye to their I needed a shoulder to cry on, which was a lot,” she says. “But daughters. “Life goes on, but in a different way. We’ve been they also acted as my ‘pick me up’ and didn’t always focus on moved to minister to people,” says Risa, who mentors expectant the direness of Andrew’s diagnosis. They knew it was okay, and mothers having conjoined twins and hopes to become involved even important, to laugh sometimes, too.” with the new ministry in the Diocese of Raleigh. “We are not Publically, Risa says she told some people she was having drowning in pain because even though our daughters are twin girls and others that they were conjoined and shared a not physically here they are still our children, still part of our heart. The Alts also talked about Addy and Ally with their family,” she adds. siblings, Ashton, 13, Ava, 7, and Anden, 3. They wanted their Risa and Jeremy are quick to tell a visitor how they honored children to know about the twins and to love them. Privately, their daughters’ first Christmas by hanging their stockings next she notes, “I prayed daily for a miracle and at one point to those of their siblings and filling them with presents – a dropped to my knees in desperation that God would… let them poem, some candy, and a family photo. They also talk about live. The more I leaned on my faith and the more I asked for how they celebrated the girls’ first birthday with family, friends strength and peace the more He provided. I can honestly say and neighbors. “Our daughters are the biggest gifts in our lives,” that the only way we were able to get through what we went says Jeremy. Risa adds, “We are blessed that God chose us to be through was our faith and BNA, who were there for us every their parents.” Regrets? Looking back, they say they have none. step of the way.” She also felt blessed because her obstetrician supported their decision to proceed with the pregnancy and provided them the care and understanding they needed. For more information about the developing ministry There are, to be sure, many steps for parents to consider in a in the Diocese of Raleigh, or to volunteer, contact Anne short amount of time. Tracy Winsor of BNA of Charlotte says Walther at [email protected] or the Pro-life Office that in addition to offering peer support and referrals, her group at the Raleigh Diocese at [email protected] helps parents with such things as preparing birth as well as el hispano Católico

nostico, “me fui desde la nube 9 a todas las etapas de dolor hasta el impacto”, dice Jeremy, un piloto de helicópteros Cobra de la Marina en el Campo Lejeune. Cuando los doctores presentaron sus opciones – termi- nar el embarazo o ver a un especialista para continuar con el embarazo – Risa y Jeremy rápida y firmemente dijeron que proseguirían. Los Alts, quienes son Católicos y que además tienen tres niños, querían conocer a sus hijas y compartir con ellas, aunque fuera poco tiempo. “Sabía que no sería fácil pero teníamos que luchar por ellas, por el tiempo que fuera y por duro que fuera, para ofrecerles todas las oportunidades de vivir”, dijo Jeremy. “Queríamos recordar el pasado y sentir paz y no remordimientos”. Su decisión los llevó por un camino doloroso, pero ricamente gratificante que dicen no solo les cambió la vida, sino también la vida a otros que se conmovieron al ver sus hijas. La pareja, ambos en sus 30’s, sienten que lo que sucedió puede ofrecer un cierto consuelo a otras familias que se encuentran en la misma decisión de espinas. La Sociedad Nacional de Consejeros Genéticos esti- ma que solo el 20 por ciento de los padres de familia escogen lle- var a los niños hasta el final sin importar el diagnostico fatal. Los “ no tengas miedo” Alts investigaron opciones médicas y buscaron especialistas para Un ministerio especial de prepararse a recibir sus hijas. Aun así, continuar con tal embara- pro-vida apoya a los padres zo no es fácil. Hay, sin embargo, una red pequeña pero creciente con grupos de apoyo para los padres que deciden hacerlo. Uno que enfrentan diagnósticos es Be Not Afraid [No Tengas Miedo, BNA- por sus siglas en in- prenatales difíciles. glés], que ofrece cuidado pastoral gratuitamente, educación para el sufrimiento, y manos para apoyar a los padres de familia que estén enfrentando diagnósticos de embarazos difíciles. Comenzó ientras que el sol entra en 2002 como una iniciativa en línea, ahora comprende una por las ventanas de la casa comunidad de padres de familias y profesionales que han experi- mentado o trabajado estrechamente con temas relacionados de Risa y Jeremy Alt en New de dichos diagnósticos. Bern en esa tarde cálida Los Alts solicitaron ayuda de la comunidad de Be Not Afraid deM otoño, se forman las sombras en toda la en la Diócesis de Charlotte; también lo hicieron Amy y Karl Horlander de Apex. Los Horlanders llevaron a su hijo, Andrew habitación de la familia donde con orgullo se Benedict, hasta el final, quien padecía de hidrocefalia o agua muestra una fotografía de sus hijas gemelas. en el cerebro y murió una hora y 27 minutos después de su Envuelto en un marco azul brillante, la foto- nacimiento el 30 de junio de 2010. Ahora, un ministerio similar, con el mismo patrón de BNA de Charlotte, se está desarrollando grafía de las recién nacidas captura ambas en la Diócesis de Raleigh, aunque todavía no se ha determinado el caras mirándose, tocándose sus brazos, como nombre. un abrazo fraternal. Addyson “Addy” Lu y Al- Cuando se le preguntó qué significaría tal ministerio para la Diócesis de Raleigh Anne Walther de Cary, que lo encabezará, lyson “Ally” May nacieron pegadas el 31 de dijo, “El ministerio servirá como apoyo personal y directo a las agosto del 2011. Murieron 13 días después. familias enfrentando diagnósticos prenatales pobres”. Ella con- Describiendo a sus hijas como un milagro y tinúa con la historia de cómo ella y su esposo, que perdieron a su niño en el 2010, no recibieron “nada de apoyo” en su decisión regalo de Dios, comenta Risa, “Él [Dios] nos de continuar con el embarazo, a pesar del diagnostico médico dio toda una vida en 13 días”. fatal. Ella dice que su experiencia habría sido mucho menos emocionalmente traumatizante” si hubiesen recibido asistencia Desde el inicio del embarazo, Risa dice que ella sabía que algo y podido celebrar el embarazo. “Eso es lo que hace BNA”, dice estaba mal. Lo que aprendieron los Alts, durante la rutina del ella, “y eso es lo que queremos ofrecer al Triangulo”. ultrasonido a las 16 semanas de embarazo de Risa, fue que sus Tracy Winsor, cofundadora de BNA de Charlotte y madre de hijas gemelas compartían un corazón, las posibilidades de sobre- seis hijos quien perdió a dos bebés por causa de abortos espon- vivir eran pocas. Al escuchar los dos latidos de corazón y el diag- táneos está de acuerdo y agrega, “este trabajo es para dar vida”.

NC Catholics 20 Jan./Feb. 2013 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org Ella describe el apoyo de BNA como el que crea una comunidad to, elaborar un libro de recuerdos, y proporcionar regalos para el de cuidado en los padres cuando buscan hacerle honor a la vida bebe, desde la vestimenta del bautismo y colchita hasta los zapa- de su bebé. Ella dice, contando con 25 ministros y voluntarios titos y la gorrita. También implica tener un miembro de la BNA capacitados, que el ministerio de Charlotte sirve anualmente a10 durante el nacimiento, si es posible. familias que llevan a sus bebés a término y de10 a 15 familias so- Tracy Winsor estaba en el hospital cuando el hijo de los licitan ayuda o otra información. En la página web [www.beno- Horlanders, Andrew Benedict, nació, aunque ella no llegó a tafraid.net/nc] el grupo ofrece artículos, recursos y testimonios conocerlo antes de morir; “pero, lo cuidó en sus brazos y lo para ayudar a familias a encontrar consejería y “ofrecer aliento a quiso por lo que era…,” dice Amy. “Cuando llegó el momento aquellos que tiene miedo de continuar” con el embarazo. Aunque de despedirme de Andrew, simplemente no podía soltarlo. Tracy los Alts nunca consideraron terminar su embarazo, se dirigieron a con mucho amor lo tomó en sus brazos. Ese momento de su BNA de Charlotte, “porque estábamos desesperados y perdidos”, vida se grabó en mi corazón”. dice Risa, señalando que ella y Jeremy nunca más se sintieron so- Tracy estaba con los Alts poco después que nacieron sus los y que el grupo los conectó con otras familias que tenían geme- hijas, y es su madrina honoraria. También estaban miembros los pegados. de la familia de la pareja quienes manejaron desde Virginia y De hecho, los padres de familia que llevan bebés con condi- Florida a Carolina del Norte para brindar apoyo. Además, el ciones fatales al término enfrentan ciertos retos y otras series de Dr. Martin McCaffrey, neonatólogo que conocieron a través de preguntas difíciles. Por ejemplo, qué responder cuando te pre- BNA, ayudó a preparar la pareja para el parto. También estaba guntan ¿cuándo va a nacer el bebé? o te preguntan sobre el gé- allí “para luchar por los bebés y asegurarse que se les trataran nero del bebé. ¿Qué dicen los padres a sus otros hijos? Encada con respeto igual que a los bebés que sobreviven”, dijo Risa. encuentro, los padres deben decidir cuánta información deben Un poco antes que llegaran Ally y Addy al mundo Monseñor revelar a los demás acerca de sus bebés o de ellos mismos. Gerald Lewis, de la Iglesia Católica de San Pablo en New Bern, Las preguntas fueron castigadoras para Amy Horlander, quien parroquia de la pareja, guiaron a un grupo de 20 personas del se mudó de Indiana a Carolina del Norte con su esposo y sus personal en oración. Tras el nacimiento de los bebés, Monseñor otros hijos cuando tenía 26 semanas de embarazo de Andrew. En Lewis inmediatamente los bautizó. un correo electrónico, Amy escribe: “¿cuántas veces más tengo Durante los 13 días que vivieron Addy y Ally, conocieron a que pretender que soy feliz y que estoy emocionada cuando un sus padres, hermanos, y otros miembros de la familia, fueron extraño me pregunta cuándo tendré al bebé, si estoy lista y si bautizados y recibieron la unción de los enfermos. Los Alts los niños están emocionados?” Con la familia lejos, Amy se vio atesoran ese tiempo con sus hijas. Lo siguen haciendo. Para ellos en la necesidad de buscar a BNA para ser confortada. “Los otros tener la oportunidad de tener a sus niñas en los brazos y poder miembros de BNA me escucharon cuando necesité un hombro ver sus ojos abrir fue un regalo. “Presenciamos un milagro, el para llorar, que fue mucho. “Pero también actuaron “me levan- milagro por el que había rezado”, dice Risa. “Él [Dios] les dio 13 taron” y no solo se concentraban en la situación del diagnostico días de vida que nadie les había dicho que tendrían. de Andrew. Sabían que estaba bien e inclusive también era im- En casa, en esta tarde del domingo caluroso por el sol, Risa portante reír a veces”. y Jeremy hablan con amor de Ally y Addy y cómo tuvieron la Públicamente, Risa dice que anunció a algunas personas que dicha de dar a luz y despedirse de sus hijas. “La vida continúa; iba a tener gemelas y a otras que estaban pegadas y que com- pero de diferente manera. Nos hemos conmovido a servir a la partían un corazón. Los Alts también hablaron sobre Addy y gente”, dice Risa, que orienta a madres embarazadas con gemelos Ally con sus hermanas(os), Ashton de13, Ava de 7 y Anden de 3 pegados y desea involucrase con el nuevo ministerio de la Dióce- años. Querían que los niños supieran la situación de las gemelas sis de Raleigh. “No nos hemos ahogado en el dolor porque y que las amaran. En privado, ella dijo, “oré diariamente para que aunque nuestras hijas no están físicamente con nosotros siguen ocurriera un milagro y en un momento de desesperación doblé siendo nuestras hijas y siguen siendo parte de nuestra familia”, mis rodillas para que Dios les permitiera vivir. Entre más me añadió ella. inclinaba hacia mi fe y entre más pedía fortaleza y paz, Él más Risa y Jeremy siempre están dispuestos a compartir con los proveía. Honestamente les digo, que la única manera que visitantes como hicieron honor a sus hijas en la primera Navidad logramos superar lo que vivimos fue por nuestra fe y BNA, que al colgar su calcetín navideño junto a la de sus hermanas(os) y siempre estuvo a nuestro lado en cada paso”. Ella también se sin- llenándolo de regalos-un poema, dulces y una foto familiar. Tam- tió bendecida porque su obstetra apoyó su decisión de continuar bién hablaron cómo celebraron el primer año de las niñas con con el embarazo y les brindó el cuidado y la comprensión que la familia, amigos y vecinos. “Nuestras hijas son el regalo más necesitaban. grande de nuestras vidas”, dice Jeremy. Risa añadió, “Estamos Para estar seguros, hay muchos pasos para los padres a consid- bendecidos que Dios nos escogió para ser sus padres”. ¿Arrepen- erar en un corto tiempo. Tracy Winsor de la BNA de Charlotte timiento? Ven el pasado y dicen no tener ninguno. dice que además de ofrecer referencias y apoyo entre ellos, su grupo ayuda a los padres con la preparación del nacimiento del Para mayor información en torno al desarrollo del ministerio bebé como también con el plan del funeral y algo de suma im- en la Diócesis de Raleigh, o de voluntarios comunicarse con portancia, los recuerdos. Esto implica trabajar con un fotógrafo AnneWalther a [email protected] o a la Oficina de Pro- que tome fotos sin costo alguno, antes y después del nacimien- vida en la Diócesis de Raleigh a [email protected]

Por Rachelle D. Garbarine Obispo Burbidge

Honor a los Ministerios, abrazando los Desafíos

n ciertos momentos en la vida de la Iglesia, nuestro enfoque se ve más claro en los ministerios específicos y los desafíos del Evangelio. Los meses de enero y febrero están llenos de estos ejemplos. Durante esta publicación estamos celebrando el mes del Respeto por la Vida, de las Vocaciones, de la Unión de losE Cristianos y la Semana de Escuelas Católicas. Más allá de todo, en febrero abraza- mos la Cuaresma que llama a la conversión, la transformación radical de nuestras vidas. Con la gracia de Dios, nos alejamos del pecado para ser fieles al Evangelio reflejado en nuestro compromiso renovado con la oración, el ayuno y la caridad.

Permítanme subrayar en este artículo las realidades que que sus palabras de gratitud y apoyo significan para ellos. la Iglesia destaca para nosotros en estos meses: También recuerden que todos nosotros estamos llamados a El Mes de Respeto por la Vida nos recuerda que cada día ser directores de vocaciones. Debemos hacer nuestra parte, es una oportunidad de dar gracias a Dios por el regalo con la gracia de Dios, para dar a la Iglesia más sacerdotes precioso que muy a menudo damos por hecho: el regalo y religiosos(as). La manera obvia es rezar por esta inten- precioso de la vida misma. Es esencial que meditemos ción especial y por más vocaciones; sin embargo, no solo sobre la verdad que únicamente nosotros hemos sido crea- podemos hacerlo de manera general. ¿Qué pasa con los hi- dos a imagen y semejanza de Dios, y que de hecho, somos jos y nietos, los miembros de tu familia o feligreses? Ellos templos del Espíritu Santo. Al mismo tiempo reconocemos necesitan recibir una invitación por su parte para consid- que nuestra nación, en muchas maneras, no venera la san- erar la posibilidad que Dios les puede llamar a esta vida tidad de toda vida humana, especialmente a través de la le- maravillosa. Necesitan escuchar su deseo de apoyar si Dios galización del aborto y la toma de vidas inocentes cada día. les está llamando a servir como sacerdote o religioso(a). La Nunca debemos cansarnos de rezar para terminar el aborto Iglesia les necesita para ser un director de vocaciones. y debemos igualar nuestra oración con el testimonio y la En este Año de la Fe, se les recuerda a los padres de defensa de las personas humanas sin excepciones incluy- familia que ellos son los primeros maestros de sus hijos endo al pobre, al anciano, al inmigrante, al prisionero y a al camino de la fe y que esta responsabilidad debe ser todos los que son fácilmente olvidados y alejados. Todos uno de sus mayores prioridades. Al celebrar la Semana de nuestros esfuerzos para proteger la vida deben sostenerse las Escuelas Católicas, la Diócesis renueva su compromiso en Jesús, la Fuente de toda la Vida. de ayudar a los padres en este rol muy especial y pro- Nuestra creencia en la dignidad de todas las personas porcionar escuelas excelentes para que los niños puedan nos llevan a tratar a todo el pueblo de Dios con respeto y orar diariamente, estudiar y celebrar su fe Católica cinco amor. La Semana de la Unión de los Cristianos nos motiva días a la semana. Estoy orgulloso de nuestras Escuelas a celebrar la unidad que es nuestra como hermanos y Católicas y expreso un profundo agradecimiento a todos hermanas en Cristo y a rezar para que la oración de Jesús los educadores Católicos por dedicar sus vidas a este se cumpla: que todos seamos uno. Que importante es que hermoso ministerio. aprendamos de los demás y trabajemos unidos para llevar En los meses de enero y febrero la Iglesia, en su sabi- la Buena Nueva de Cristo a nuestras comunidades. En este duría, nos recuerda nuestra llamada de venerar la santidad Año del la Fe, también se nos invita a enseñar, compartir de toda la vida humana y de ofrecer oración, testimonio y anunciar nuestras convicciones con aquellos que tal vez y defensa de su protección; de trabajar para la unión no saben quiénes somos y en lo que creemos. A menudo Cristiana; de promover las vocaciones al Sacerdocio y a la se nos recuerda, que no imponemos; proponemos y lo Vida Religiosa y de celebrar el gran rol que han jugado las hacemos con verdad y amor. Escuelas Católicas y que continúan jugando en la vida de La Semana Nacional de Vocaciones nos llama a recordar la Iglesia y en la formación de fe de nuestra gente joven. a los queridos sacerdotes y religiosos(as) que nos han ser- Podemos responder a la llamada que hemos recibido vido a lo largo de nuestras vidas y rezar por su eterno des- solamente con la gracia que viene de Dios, que con la canso. Es también una oportunidad de agradecer y animar ayuda divina buscamos cada día de nuestras vidas. En el a los sacerdotes y religiosos(as) que generosamente sirven Tiempo Sagrado de Cuaresma que nos acerquemos mas a ahora en nuestra Diócesis. Por favor no subestimen lo Él y permanezcamos siempre fieles al Evangelio.

NC Catholics 22 Jan./Feb. 2013 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org Nuestra Catedral

limitada en las recepciones y en las

ELEMENTOS DIOCESANOS ELEMENTOS PARROQUIALES clases de formación de fe. “‘Nuestros Sueños’ es el nombre de nuestra • La Catedral de Santo • Ayuda a los Pobres Nombre de Jesús campaña”, comentó el P. Leon. “El titulo • Proyectos de Instalaciones • Salón de Reuniones de la Parroquia sirve para recordar a nuestros feligreses • Instalaciones de Estacionamiento • Mejorar el Ministerio de la Parroquia que somos una comunidad bajo • BAA 2012 • Reducir la Deuda de la Parroquia construcción, no sólo espiritualmente,

Una campaña para los fieles de la Diócesis de Raleigh sino físicamente, mientras trabajamos para terminar la construcción de nuestro plan maestro de construcción”. La meta de la Campaña Catedral de Santa Ana es de $746.371, que incluye la parte de la BAA 2012 y 2013 de $210.746. La meta será además la cantidad necesaria para construir el salón de la parroquia. La Iglesia Holy Redeemer by the Sea está finalizando los elementos de su campaña, con planes para comenzar en tres parroquias Febrero. Líderes de la Campaña inauguran la Campaña expresan gratitud.

Catedral “Piggyback” Cuando se termine, el éxito de la Campaña del Campus de la Catedral asta el 19 de diciembre, más de $51 millones será debido a los fieles en la Diócesis de dólares se han hecho en promesa con más que apoyaron el proyecto con sus de 18.000 familias participando para apoyar oraciones y donaciones generosas. Cientos de personas habrían contribuido la Campaña del Campus de la Catedral. con miles de horas apoyando al HMuchas parroquias continúan sus esfuerzos para lograr proyecto a nivel parroquial al igual que superar sus metas de buena fe. a nivel Diocesano. Muchos voluntarios han expresado gratitud por ser elegidos Tres parroquias comenzarán sus para los dos años de la Campaña a asistir en la Campaña. Muchos campañas al principio del año. La Iglesia Anual del Obispo (BAA por sus siglas lo han encontrado espiritualmente de St. Michael the Archangel en Cary, la en inglés) con $1 millón de dólares enriquecedor. Iglesia de Santa Ana en Clayton y Holy asignado para un Centro de Actividades Kevin Green, un feligrés de la Redeemer by the Sea en Kill Devil Hills Parroquiales que se necesita en la Catedral del Sagrado Corazón, es conducirán una campaña “piggyback” Parroquia. La Iglesia St. Michael es la miembro (dos campañas en una), combinando la Iglesia más grande en la Diócesis con del Comité Campaña Catedral con las necesidades aproximadamente 6.000 familias. Directivo. Él especificas de sus parroquias. Sus “Esta instalación es un servicio clave describe la respectivas metas de la Campaña necesario para el rápido crecimiento de experiencia Catedral incluyen la Campaña Anual del la parroquia”, dijo el P. Douglas Reed, como “instructiva Obispo 2012 y 2013. párroco de St. Michael. “Nos permitirá y gratificante”. Kevin y Lauren La Iglesia St. Michael the Archangel satisfacer las necesidades de nuestra Dice que cuando Green tiene una meta escuela parroquial, las necesidades el Obispo le pidió que sirviera no dudó y combinada de litúrgicas, así como satisfacer las aprovecho la oportunidad. Criado como $4.35 millones demandas crecientes de nuestros bautista, Kevin se hizo católico en 1987 de dólares. De ministerios múltiples”. durante su último año de colegio. Desde esos $2.290.000 La construcción de un nuevo salón entonces está activamente involucrado es la meta para también será el centro de la campaña en varios ministerios, incluyendo la el Campus de combinada que conducirá la Iglesia coordinación del programa RICA con su la Catedral, de Santa Ana. El P. Marcos Leon, su esposa, Lauren. $844.000 es párroco, dijo que la comunidad está “Tras recibir formación por medio Nuestra Catedral

de RICA y ahora estar involucrado en duda que el video de la Catedral, que con la respuesta financiera de las par- él ha sido muy gratificante”, dijo Kevin. enseñaron en las recepciones, ayudó roquias que ofrecen las comunidades “Pero es aún más emocionante, tener la a explicar las necesidades en nuestra hispanas. “Muchos de ellos han partici- oportunidad de ayudar a preparar la fase Diócesis creciente. pado en la construcción de pequeñas preparatoria para nuestra nueva catedral, La Sra. Elisabeth Pfohl Sasser, una capillas y grandes Iglesias en sus países ya que la Catedral del Santo Nombre de feligrés de la Iglesia de St. Francis de de origen. Ellos conocen la satisfacción Jesús vivirá por generaciones y tocará la Assisi en Raleigh, hizo eco a la gratitud de contribuir al trabajo del Señor”, dijo el vida de mucha gente”. de Kevin Green. Como miembro del P. Arce. Ser miembro del Comité Directivo Comité de Construcción, presidido “En mi me dio una visión más clara del por el Reverendo Monseñor David presentación en funcionamiento interno de la Iglesia. D. Brockman, Vicario General de la las recepciones Cuando escuché que habíamos Diócesis, dijo la Srta. Sasser, “Me siento con los his- superado la marca de $50 millones, ese afortunada de ser elegida para servir y panos”, dijo él, fue un momento de euforia. Agradezco contribuir en este histórico proyecto. La “expliqué que el que me hayan pedido ser parte de diversidad, compromiso y capacidades Dios nos invita este importante proyecto”. representadas en el Comité de a participar en Para la familia Green, trabajar en el Construcción y la devoción de aquellos este magnífico trabajo de la misma proyecto de la Campaña Catedral fue que han servido en él para hacer lo que manera que nuestra Señora de Guada- un trabajo de familia. Lauren, quien es verdaderamente es en el mejor interés lupe invitó a San Juan Diego en 1531. la Directora de la Oficina de Ministerio de los fieles, es lo que recordaré más de Se sienten bendecidos al continuar el de la Herencia Africana, representó a la participación”. trabajo de nuestro Señor y saben que la Diócesis en varias recepciones en el “El comité”, agregó la Srta. Sasser, esta oportunidad es un privilegio”. Bloque 1 y 2. “Fue un honor compartir “verdaderamente aborda su trabajo con “Recuerdo una familia que dijo que mi ideas y experiencias en nombre de una actitud de servicio. Estoy segura cuando ellos venían en camino a este la Campaña Catedral y el trabajo de que la reverencia con la que el Comité país por el desierto, ellos prometieron a mi oficina, que es patrocinada por la ha trabajado se reflejará en el proyecto Dios que apoyarían la Iglesia para que Campaña Anual del Obispo. La gente una vez que finalice”. más gente se acercara a conocerlo. que asistió a las recepciones me recibió El P. Carlos Arce, Vicario de Ministe- Ellos reconocieron que este era el muy bien, comentó Lauren. “No cabe rio Hispano, dijo que está muy contento llamado a servir al Señor”.

El Patrimonio de la Sociedad Católica del Pa- “El P. Price fue el apóstol de Carolina del Norte y el primer dre thomas Price para los Donantes de Honor sacerdote del estado, quien compró los 400 acres de tierra cerca del centro de Raleigh en 1897,” explicó Flood. Desde en- De acuerdo a las estadísticas, sólo tonces la diócesis se ha fortalecido y parte de las tierras fueron el 50 por ciento de los americanos tiene el hogar del orfanato y de una escuela secundaria Católica. En un testamento. Y aquellos que sí tienen, el futuro, la tierra servirá como la casa de la Catedral del Santo son a menudo documentos obsoletos. Nombre de Jesús. No es un secreto que tomarse el tiempo Con 13 años de experiencia en la planificación de dona- para planear y dar generosamente im- ciones, Flood trabaja con donantes potenciales y, a veces, sus plica esfuerzo. representantes, tales como contadores y abogados. A menudo La Diócesis de Raleigh honrará a los donadores que han de- es un esfuerzo de colaboración y mantener abiertas las líneas de jado un legado en su testamento, fideicomiso en vida, dotaciones comunicación es importante para entender las expectativas de y otros tipos de donaciones de bienes, con membrecía del recién privacidad y las intenciones de los donantes. nombrado del Patrimonio de la Sociedad Católica del Padre “Alguien podría originalmente tener una intención no clara al Thomas Price. Se invitará a los miembros donantes a una cena decir ‘Esto lo dejo a la diócesis’, cuando realmente lo que desean anual de agradecimiento y a una Misa en su honor. es destinarlo ya sea al programa del seminario, de Pro-Vida o a su “Un legado otorga un regalo muy personal”, dice Ryan Flood, parroquia,” dijo este. director diocesano de special gifts (donaciones especiales). “Esta La Sociedad Patrimonial Católica del Padre Thomas Price, an- sociedad es una manera de reconocer a la gente que ha hecho teriormente conocida como la Sociedad Patrimonial Católica, se donaciones significantes, aunque tal vez no suceda durante la hará oficialmente este mes en la Diócesis de Raleigh. La sociedad vida de la persona”. actualmente tiene 87 miembros vivos y 49 fallecidos. Mientras que muchas diócesis a lo largo del país tienen pro- “Cuando la persona se une al esfuerzo para donar, es impor- gramas de Patrimonio de la Sociedad que trabajan de manera tante decirle, ‘muchas gracias…esto es muy importante”’, dijo similar, la Diócesis de Raleigh decidió vincular el nombre del Flood, quien agregó que el crecimiento a la Diócesis hace el dar Padre Price al grupo porque la vida del P. Price representa el más importante que nunca. “Las donaciones caritativas que se legado y patrimonio para muchos. realicen ahora harán un gran impacto en los próximos años”.

NC Catholics 24 Jan./Feb. 2013 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org A ñ 0 DE LA FE

resucitó y les dice a sus apóstoles: enciando dificultades, duda o incerti- “Reciban el Espíritu Santo: a quienes dumbre para acercarse al Señor en este ustedes perdonen los pecados, les sacramento”, dice. “Si no ha recibido quedarán perdonados, y a quienes el sacramento de sanación desde hace no se los perdonen, les quedarán sin tiempo, estamos listos para recibirlo perdonar”. a usted. Nosotros, a quien Cristo ha “En el sacramento de la penitencia y ordenado a este Ministerio de perdonar reconciliación, nos reunimos con el Se- en Su nombre, también nos acercamos ñor, quien quiere otorgarnos el perdón a este sacramento, como penitentes y la gracia de vivir una vida renovada y ministros, durante la Cuaresma. en Él. En este sacramento, Él nos Queremos ofrecernos a ustedes como prepara para recibirlo con una fe viva, pecadores perdonados buscando servir esperanza sincera y amor sacrificial en en el nombre del Señor”. la Eucaristía. Por la gracia del Espíritu La exhortación se hará pública justo Santo nos arrepentimos, nos despren- para permitir a las Diócesis a pre- La Cuaresma demos del patrón del pecado, crec- pararse para la Cuaresma de 2013 y emos en la virtud de la vida y damos para ofrecer el sacramento en tiempos comienza testimonio de una alegre conversión”. “conveniente y plenos”, de acuerdo a el 13 de El 12 de noviembre el Obispo un documento sobre la exhortación. Ricken dijo que el documento fue Hablando en la “Perspectiva Católica”, febrero preparado para que “ayude en la con- el programa de televisión de la Diócesis versión de los corazones a Jesucristo, de Raleigh, el Obispo Burbidge señaló En el Año de la Fe, que es el corazón de la evangelización”. la observación del Santo Padre sobre el Santo Padre y los Añadió que la exhortación está “en- la nueva evangelización y el confesion- raizada en la enseñanza” del Catecismo ario. “¿Por qué diría eso?” preguntó el Obispos de Estados de la Iglesia Católica. La brevedad de Obispo. “Porque este sacramento nos Unidos enfatizaron esta declaración pretende fomentar pone de rodillas ante el Señor, recon- una amplia difusión en los boletines de ocemos que somos pecadores y que una mayor manera la parroquia, publicaciones diocesanas no podemos hacer nada sin su gracia”. de usar la Penitencia y medios sociales. El Obispo dijo: “La exhortación nos La exhortación intenta aliviar el recuerda que este hermoso sacramento El Papa Benedicto XVI ha dicho: temor de los católicos que no se han del perdón y misericordia de Dios está “¡La nueva evangelización…comienza confesado por algún tiempo. “Nosotros siempre disponible para nosotros, y en el confesionario!” Al comienzo de los Obispos y Sacerdotes estamos debe ser recibida con frecuencia, no la Cuaresma – Miércoles de Ceniza dispuestos a ayudarles si están pres- solo durante la Cuaresma”. es el 13 de febrero–los Obispos de los Estados Unidos han atendido La transmisión de la Revelación Divina: a la invitación del Santo Padre para Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica organizar “celebraciones penitenciales, particularmente en la Cuaresma, en 96 Lo que Cristo confió a los apóstoles, éstos lo transmitieron por su predicación que todos puedan pedir a Dios el y por escrito, bajo la inspiración del Espíritu Santo, a todas las generaciones perdón, especialmente por los pecados hasta el retorno glorioso de Cristo. en contra de la fe”. El 13 de noviembre, los Obispos 97 “La Tradición y la Sagrada Escritura constituyen un único depósito sagrado aprobaron una exhortación alentando de la palabra de Dios”, en el cual, como en un espejo, la Iglesia peregrinante a los católicos que que aprovechen el contempla a Dios, fuente de todas sus riquezas. Sacramento de la Penitencia, también conocida como la reconciliación. El 98 “La Iglesia con su enseñanza, su vida, su culto, conserva y transmite a todas texto, que aún no ha sido publicado, ya las edades lo que es y lo que cree” (DV 8 # 1). que está en proceso de imprimir, fue preparado por el Comité de Obispos 99 En virtud de su sentido sobrenatural de la fe, todo el Pueblo de Dios no cesa para la Evangelización y Cateque- de acoger el don de la Revelación divina, de penetrarla más profundamente y sis, presidido por el Obispo David de vivirla de modo más pleno. L.Ricken de Green Bay, Wis. La cita toma la exhortación del 100 El oficio de interpretar auténticamente la Palabra de Dios ha sido confiado única- Evangelio de Juan después que Jesús mente al Magisterio de la Iglesia, al Papa y a los obispos en comunión con él. Estudiantes de Inmaculada “agarrando la Fe por los Cuernos” Lumen Gentium: I. Misterio de la Iglesia Cada año el grupo de jóvenes de la Parroquia de la Inmaculada Concepción (IC – por sus siglas en inglés) en Durham diseñan playeras para que la usen los jóvenes A lo largo del Año de la Fe, que en los proyectos de servicios o durante otras actividades del grupo. “Ya que éste es también marca el 50 aniversario del el Año de la Fe”, dijo Margie Burton, servidora de los jóvenes de IC, “yo sugerí que Concilio Vaticano II y el 20 aniver- hicieran algo con el tema”. “A los jóvenes Católicos de la Ciudad de los Bull, se les sario del Catecismo de la Iglesia ocurrió un diseño que incorporara el lema “Grab Faith by the Horns” (agarra la fe por Católica, la revista NCC publicará los cuernos)”. “Tenemos cerca de 280 jóvenes adultos en el grupo”, dijo Margie Bur- breves fragmentos de los documen- ton, “alrededor de 40% son Latinos y a todos les pareció buena la idea”. Los jóvenes tos del Concilio y del Catecismo. compraron las playeras, algunas con manga larga y otras con manga corta, rápido se agotaron las playeras. (¶1) Cristo es la luz de los pueb- los. Por ello este sacrosanto Sínodo, El flotador del año de la Fe en el desfile reunido en el Espíritu Santo, desea de navidad de Rocky Mount ardientemente iluminar a todos los hombres, anunciando el Evangelio El 2 de diciembre, el “bark of Peter” desfiló en la a toda criatura con la claridad de marcha de Navidad en Rocky Mount. Un flotador con- Cristo, que resplandece sobre la faz struido por estudiantes y padres de la escuela Católica de la Iglesia. Y porque la Iglesia es en de Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro (OLPH – Cristo como un sacramento, o sea por sus siglas en inglés) y modelando el logo del Año signo e instrumento de la unión íntima de la Fe fue uno de los más de 70 flotadores en el con Dios y de la unidad de todo el evento anual. DianneYoung, Directora de Formación género humano, ella se propone pre- de Fe de OLPH, supervisó los planes y la construcción sentar a sus fieles y a todo el mundo del flotador. “Este es el segundo año que participamos con mayor precisión su naturaleza y en el desfile”, comentó ella. “Además de llamar la su misión universal, abundando en la atención sobre el Año de la Fe, el flotador es también doctrina de los concilios precedentes. una buena manera de hacer publicidad a la escuela y conectar la educación católica. (¶2) El Padre Eterno, por una La Sra. Young dijo que la Escuela de OLPH ha sido parte de la comunidad de disposición libérrima y arcana de Rocky Mount desde 1939. “Son 73 años de educación Católica”, añadió ella. Algu- su sabiduría y bondad, creó todo nos adultos y niños se vistieron de santos y se pasearon en el flotador. La Sra. Young el universo, decretó elevar a los hom- se vistió de Santa Mariana Cope, O.S.F., también conocida como la Santa de Mari- bres a participar de la vida divina, y ana de Molokai, (Enero 23, 1838 – Agosto 9, 1918), nació en Alemania y entro a como ellos hubieran pecado en Adán, las Hermanas Franciscanas de Syracuse en Nueva York. Conocida por sus obras de no los abandonó, antes bien les dis- caridad y virtudes, ella pasó muchos años asistiendo a los enfermos de lepra en la isla pensó siempre los auxilios para la sal- de Molokai en Hawaii. vación, en atención a Cristo Redentor, «que es la imagen de Dios invisible, Retiros de la Facultad en St. Peter para Fomentar primogénito de toda criatura». A todos “Una Comunidad de fieles estudiando” los elegidos, el Padre, antes de todos los siglos, «los conoció de antemano En Greenville, NC, la facultad y el personal de la Escuela Católica de St. y los predestinó a ser conformes con Peter han programado cinco retiros—Días de Desarrollo “Construyendo la Co- la imagen de su Hijo, para que éste munidad de Fe” – durante el Año de la Fe. Los retiros fueron planeados por los sea el primogénito entre muchos maestros(as) de religión de la escuela, y comprenden un día de oración, medi- hermanos». Y estableció convocar a tación, colaboración y presentaciones de facilitadores visitantes. Entre los presen- quienes creen en Cristo en la santa tadores están el P. Tony DeCandia Ministro del Campus en la Universidad de Iglesia, que ya fue prefigurada desde NC State, la Hermana Rose Marie , Directora Ejecutiva de la Formación y el origen del mundo, preparada admi- Evangelización Católica y el P. Justin Kerber, C.P., Párroco de St. Peter. rablemente en la historia del pueblo Los retiros son parte de un plan de acción de diez puntos para incorporar el de Israel y en la Antigua Alianza, Año de la Fe en la comunidad de la escuela de St. Peter. Los pasos incluyen constituida en los tiempos definitivos, inicio de clases con oración, alentar a las familias de la escuela y personal para manifestada por la efusión del Espíritu asistir a la reconciliación antes de Adviento y Cuaresma y un mensaje mensual y que se consumará gloriosamente al “Construyendo la Comunidad” del Director Dr. Joseph Nelson para “fomentar final de los tiempos. el amor, la compasión y el apoyo mutuo con nuestra fe Católica como nuestro Fundamento”.

NC Catholics 26 Jan./Feb. 2013 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org local news

Catholic Schools Week January 27 – February 2 Bishop Celebrates annual Mass for Homeschool Families The Diocese of Raleigh joins Dioceses throughout country in observing National Approximately 500 parents and children from 27 Catholic Schools Week from January 27 to parishes attended the annual Mass with Homeschool February 2, 2013. Traditionally, the annual Families on Friday, December 7, 2012. The Most event begins the last Sunday in January and Reverend Michael F. Burbidge was the Principal runs for one week. It began in 1974. Celebrant and Homilist at the Diocesan Mass at Saint This year’s theme is “Catholic Schools Joseph Church in Raleigh. Raise the Standards,” which was chosen to The Mass was hosted by the Association of feature schools’ high academic standards and Catholic identity. The logo Roman Catholic Homeschoolers (ARCH) of Raleigh illustrates a chart of steady growth culminating in the highest achievement and Cary. Its membership is made up of families of all, a cross representing the faith that underscores Catholic education. throughout Wake County and surrounding areas. In the Diocese of Raleigh, NCSW will be marked with special ARCH’s mission is to promote homeschooling Masses, school tours and activities. At present there are nearly 9,000 among Catholic families and to support those students enrolled in 31 Diocesan schools, which include seven early families who are engaged in providing their children’s childhood centers/preschools and two high schools. education at home. Its activities and functions are “We’ve been working with pastors and principals the last two years founded on fidelity to the teachings of the Church. at developing some ways to strengthen Catholic schools,” said Dr. “It is truly a wonderful blessing to be able to Michael Fedewa, Diocesan Superintendent of Schools. “As a result celebrate with our Bishop and with our community,” of that, there are three specific initiatives we think will really help said Mrs. Sharleen Klas, parishioner of St. Catherine strengthen Catholic Schools.” of Siena in Wake Forest. First, Dr. Fedewa said, the Diocese is creating a comprehensive December 7 is the Feast of St. , a teacher strategy for marketing schools. (Previously marketing was left up to of faith. In his homily, Bishop Burbidge suggested individual schools.) The goal is to assist schools with enrollment issues, three ways to embrace the Year of Faith: “Study our while building on schools that are particularly strong. “It’s always good faith so we can teach others about our faith; Show to get the good news of Catholic schools out,” he said. our faith so it can be demonstrated in the way we The second initiative is to examine how the Diocese uses the God’s live; and Share our faith through good and charitable Work, Our Challenge tuition assistance endowment. “That endowment deeds.” As a sign of appreciation, Bishop Burbidge is a little over $2 million, but when you spread out the interest over 24 presented each family with a blessed Christmas schools throughout the Diocese … it helps families, but not enough,” ornament after Mass. said Dr. Fedewa. “So, how do we build that endowment to make a “This Mass reinforces what we’re doing at home,” greater impact?” said Scott Flanagan of St. Parish in The third initiative is to pursue additional sources of funding, Southern Pines. “It comes at a good time because we such as the federal E-Rate program, which provides discounted have just finished the first semester, and support from telecommunications services to non-profit private schools, public the Bishop reinvigorates us for the next semester.” schools and libraries. “We’ve applied and gone through the process, and Following Mass, an outdoor luncheon reception was because of that work we’re finally starting to see some rebates,” said Dr. provided by ARCH-Raleigh Chapter. “We are so Fedewa. “That’s a source of funding we haven’t used in the past.” grateful to the Raleigh Chapter of ARCH for all of the The superintendent hopes to spread the word about a tax credit work that went into this year’s Home School Mass,” that’s available to families who have children with special needs and said Mrs. DiSano. “Many volunteers put in countless would like to access Catholic schools. When possible, assisting those hours to promote and plan this special event. It was a families and doing more for special needs children is an area of great pleasure to collaborate with them.” importance in the Diocese. The brick-and-mortar growth of Diocesan schools is visible. At Cardinal Gibbons High School a renovation and expansion is scheduled to be completed this year, equipping the school with a new entrance, additional classrooms and new facilities for athletic and arts programs. At Pope John Paul II Catholic High School, leaders are looking at drawings for a new gymnasium and family life center that they’re building with St. ’s parish. “The challenge still remains: to keep schools open and accessible … create schools, pay our teachers a competitive wage and keep tuition at a rate that allows accessibility to continue,” said Dr. Fedewa. “We’ve got to create a culture where are schools are so good that you can’t afford not to send your child.” community

acerca de la importancia de things to do: la sexualidad como un don de Dios con el objetivo de Catholic Formation & ayudarte a ti joven a vivir Evangelization Leadership un estilo de vida diferente Retreat, January 7-9, 2013, hasta el matrimonio. Te has Trinity Center, 618 Salter preguntado alguna vez: ¿Que Path Road, Salter Path, NC es lo que Dios nos dice 28512. Gather with ministry acerca de nuestra sexualidad leaders from across the y de cómo vivirla? El mundo Diocese for a time of prayer nos dice que el sexo fuera and reflection. Theme: “Come del matrimonio está bien, Away to a Quiet Place and pero, ¿Cual es la verdad? Be Refreshed” (Mark 6:31). ¿Sabías que: El llamado The desert is where Jesus “Sexo Seguro” o condón no prepared to begin His public te protegerá de un corazón ministry. By the water’s edge, roto, de sentimientos de He formed His disciples for culpabilidad, de la pérdida de their work in spreading the tu reputación familiar y social, Good News. The mountaintop y de las Enfermedades de is where He was transfigured. Transmisión Sexual? Durante And the garden was the site of los tres días del retiro habrá both agony and ecstasy as He Cantos, Música de Animación, prepared to die and then rose Oración, Juegos, Dinámicas, to new life. This retreat explores Diálogos en Pequeños these and other biblical Grupos, Dramas, Películas, landscapes that symbolize Actividades Educativas, etc. the simplicity and trust we Para más informes comunícate are called to as disciples, con Ricardo Veloz al along with the way in which 919.754.0071. we can meet life’s challenges with courage, fortitude, and national Vocation a light heart. Retreat leader: awareness Week, January Kathy Hendricks. For more 13-19. information or registration, go to the Diocesan website www. Quo Vadis Group, January vocations. Dinner is provided. 17-48 discerning a possible dioceseofraleigh.org or contact 15, 7 p.m. at Sacred Heart Please contact the Office of call to Priesthood are invited Mary DiSano, 919.821.9710. Cathedral, Raleigh. High Vocations for more information to the Priesthood Discernment school aged boys are invited at 919.821.9731. Next group Group meetings held on the Retiro “alianza Por amor” to attend the Quo Vadis February 12. third Saturday of each month. “aPa” Jovenes adultos. Group, which meets once a If you are just beginning to 1/11/13 5:30 p.m. - 1/13/13 month, usually on a Tuesday Priesthood Discernment contemplate a vocation or are 6:00 p.m., Camp Dixie, 373 evening. Quo Vadis provides Group, January 19, 9 a.m. – 1 more serious about a call to Bladen Union Church Road, a fraternal environment and p.m. at Sacred Heart Cathedral, priesthood please consider Fayetteville, NC 28306. El an opportunity to gather 219 Edenton Street, Raleigh, attending this group. The Retiro “Alianza por Amor” te for fellowship, prayer and a N.C. 27603. Adult Catholic Priesthood Discernment Group invitara a tomar conciencia discussion on discernment and men between the ages of provides a fraternal environment

Upcoming events years. He currently lives at Mt. Franciscan Mountain Retreat at avila Retreat Center in Western NY State. Donation: $160. art & Spirit, Feb. 15-17, 2013. Fri. 7 p.m. – Sun. 11 a.m. 711 Mason Road, Durham. 27712. Theme: “Drawing on God, Drawing on Your Spirit.” This unique, To register or for more information, annual art retreat is all about creativity, connecting with your spirit and call 919.477.1285. God in ways you never thought possible. Relax, reflect, and have fun – all while creating art. Join us for this hands-on, multi-media creative Women’s Serenity Retreat, Jan. weekend. All materials supplied. No art experience needed. Smiles, 4-6, 2013, Fri. 8 p.m. – Sun. 11 a.m. hugs, and laughter guaranteed. Presenters: Claudia Fulshaw and Lisa Theme: “Trust God, Clean House, Help Giannini. Durham artists and entrepreneurs Claudia and Lisa have Others.” The journey of the Twelve Steps been facilitating art retreats at Avila since the mid-‘90s. This caring, is an Adventure. Those who have received the gift of recovery have expressive, dynamic duo will delight and encourage you throughout the opportunity to become part of a life beyond their imagination. God this soul-stirring weekend. For more information and/or registration, always has better things planned for us than we have planned for contact Avila Retreat Center. Donation: $160. ourselves. If you are willing to do the footwork, you will find blessing. Presenter: Br. Kevin Kriso, OFM has worked as a psychotherapist and Men’s 12-Step Retreat, Mar. 1-3, 2013, Fri. 7 p.m. – Sun. 11 campus minister. He has facilitated Recovery Retreats for over 20 a.m. Contact Dan Martin at 919.618.1710 or [email protected].

NC Catholics 28 Jan./Feb. 2013 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org in which to discuss your at Cardinal Gibbons’ chapel Street East, Wilson, NC 27893. http://bit.ly/ValentinesDateNight. discernment of a possible call to once monthly on Sundays at Sponsored by African Ancestry Childcare for children 2-12 Priesthood with other men who 5:30 pm. If you are interested Ministry and Evangelization. An can be arranged through are also examining the call. The to become a part of our opportunity for women to gather Jason Lillis. The event will take group discusses issues central community, please plan to attend in fellowship and prayer as they place in the Fellowship Hall. to the call and does so within the mass with us. Visit our website prepare themselves for Lent. Contact Jason Lillis at Jason. context of prayer, presentations, at http://www.singlesingleagain. For more information contact [email protected] or and discussion. The morning com/ for more information about Lauren Green, 919.821.9762. 919.847.8205 X 244. begins with Mass. Coffee and SSA ministry and to sign up for doughnuts will be available in our Yahoo group that sends out ash Wednesday Mass, 11th annual Ignited By truth the Office of Vocations (two notices of our activities. Sacred Heart Cathedral, Catholic Conference. Save doors down from the Cathedral) 12:10 p.m. Principal celebrant the date! April 12-13, 2013 after Mass. Morning Prayer, Celebration of the MLK, Jr. Bishop Michael F. Burbidge. NC State Fairgrounds, Raleigh a discussion/presentation Holiday, 9-12 a.m. at Sacred “Bringing to light the truth of the about discernment/Priesthood, Heart Cathedral, Raleigh. Celebrate Your Love: teachings of the Catholic Church Daytime Prayer, and lunch Mass with Bishop Michael F. an Evening for Married and igniting in our hearts a love follow. For more information Burbidge as principal celebrant, Couples, February 14, 6:30 for our Faith” Dr. Scott Hahn, contact the Vocations Office, and celebration of the birth of p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Author of The Lamb’s Supper 919.832.6279. Next group Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Church, 11401 Leesville Rd., and Rome Sweet Home Bishop February 16. social justice that he preached. Raleigh, NC 27613. Couples Michael F. Burbidge, Vigil Mass from the Diocese are invited Celebrant and Homilist More Single & Single again is Catholic Schools Week, to a Valentine Evening with speakers and details coming a group of single, divorced, January 28-February 1. heavy hors d’oeuvres and a soon! www.IgnitedByTruth.com. or widowed Catholic adults, glass of wine. John and Teri brought together through Mass of thanksgiving in Bosio will help the participant Church Unity Ecumenical common interest as we pray, Celebration of Religious Life, couples celebrate their Worship Service, Tuesday, work and play together. The February 2, 11 a.m. at Our Lady marriages. John is the author January 22, 7 p.m. at group was formed to offer of Lourdes Church, Raleigh. of “The Beatitudes: A Couples Resurrection United Methodist help and support in facing the Path to Greater Joy” and “Six Church, 4705 Old Chapel Hill challenges of being single and Women’s Retreat, February Dates for Catholic Couples.” Road, Durham, NC 27707. “single again” in the Catholic 9, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at St. Cost is $20 per couple. Bishop Burbidge will be a Church. We meet for Mass Alphonsus Center, 810 Reid Registration is required at participant. financial report

I am pleased to report that through offertory increases of more than 5% the generosity of the faithful in above the previous year. This vibrant the Diocese, the leadership of our growth is also seen in the continuing pastors and pastoral administrators, construction of new facilities. Over prudent management by our Diocesan $160 million of construction projects staff, and the excellent advice of for churches, halls, education our Diocesan Finance Council, our buildings, and schools has either been Diocese continues to be financially completed in the past five years, is stable. Once again, the Diocesan audit under construction now, or is under is accompanied design or planning (not by an unqualified I am pleased including the Holy opinion, which to report that Name of Jesus Cathedral means that the through the Campus project). Our auditors believe generosity of the faithful in Diocese continues to the financial the Diocese, the leadership see increases in those statements fairly of our pastors and pastoral receiving Sacraments represent the administrators, prudent such as Baptism, First financial status of management by our Holy Communion, and December 2012 the Diocese. In Diocesan staff, and the Confirmation. Over Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, addition, there excellent advice of our 2,000 individuals have As your Bishop, it is my is an attestation Diocesan Finance Council, been received into the responsibility and my privilege to letter from the our Diocese continues to Catholic Church in the make this Annual Report on the auditors which be financially stable.” past year. We continue finances of the Diocese of Raleigh. indicates that to be blessed by our Our Diocesan finances are audited their review and testing shows that dedicated Priests who are serving the by the independent accounting firm the restrictions upon parish deposits faithful across our Diocese. I am also of Cherry, Bekaert, and Holland, and with the Diocese, the Bishop’s Annual grateful for the generous service of our those audited financial statements are Appeal and the Our Cathedral: One deacons, consecrated religious sisters published on our Diocesan website Faith, One People campaign have been and brothers, and seminarians. at http://www.dioceseofraleigh.org/ honored. We also know that there are who/diocese/audit/index.aspx. If you Our Diocese is one of the fastest parishioners and people in our do not have access to a computer growing Dioceses in the country, and communities who are facing serious and would like a copy of the audited we continue to see many signs of economic challenges. Catholic financial statements, you may contact growth and vibrancy. Parish offertory Charities, which receives significant Mr. Russell Elmayan, Chief Financial across the Diocese increased by funding from the Bishop’s Annual Officer/Chief Operating Officer, by 2.7% over the previous year, and 31 Appeal, continues to serve over calling 919-821-9703. parishes and missions experienced 60,000 people in need each year in

Members of the Diocesan Finance Council • Mr. Joseph Kurzweil St. Francis of Assisi, Raleigh • Mr. James Baker St. Michael the • Very Rev. Robert Kus St. Mary, Wilmington Archangel, Cary • Mr. Carman Liuzzo (Chair) St. Michael the • Rev. Msgr. David Brockman Vicar General Archangel, Cary • Rev. Edward Burch Sacred Heart, Pinehurst • Mr. timothy Mann St. , • Mr. Julio de la Rosa St. Francis of Assisi, Chapel Hill Raleigh • Mr. Robert Moloney St. Peter, Greenville • Mrs. Lori Dutra St. James, Henderson • Very Rev. Daniel Oschwald Sacred Heart Cathedral, • Mr. Russell Elmayan Chief Financial Officer/ Raleigh Chief Operating Officer • Mr. John Riedy St. • Mrs. Hulene Hill UNC Newman Center, the Archangel, Raleigh Chapel Hill • Mr. James Sansom Holy Cross, Durham • Fr. Robert Ippolito, M.S. St. Stephen the • Mr. Richard Urquhart Sacred Heart Cathedral, First Martyr, Sanford Raleigh

NC Catholics 30 Jan./Feb. 2013 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org our communities. I am grateful for the many volunteers who assist the Catholic Charities staff in this outreach, and am grateful for the benefactors who provide the resources to make much of this outreach possible. Just as importantly, I also ask for you to join me in offering continued prayers for all those in need. There are financial challenges for our Diocese as well, including Sources of Diocesan Income the bolstering of the funding of the $ 22.1 Million pension plans for our priests and lay employees, containing health insurance premium costs while continuing to have appropriate health benefits for our employees, and ensuring that the Diocese has access to capital in the future to fund parish loans for anticipated new church related construction to meet the needs of the growing number of parishioners. With the guidance of our Diocesan Finance Council, I am confident that plans are in place to address these challenges. This year, I invite you to review a new format visually highlighting some of the key financial and pastoral benchmarks that are *Excluding Our Cathedral One Faith One People Capital Campaign Pledges of $17.3 Million as of June 30, 2012 included as part of this annual report. We take seriously our obligation of exercising proper Expenditures of Diocesan Funds stewardship over the resources that $ 21.6 Million have been entrusted to us, and I believe that you will find that we have honored that obligation and commitment. I express renewed thanks for your support, which makes it possible for our Diocese to provide the pastoral and charitable ministries that impact so many people each year. May Our Lord Jesus bless you and your loved ones and may Mary Our Mother watch over you always.

Sincerely in Christ,

Most Reverend Michael F. Burbidge *Excluding $5.4 Million in non-cash expenses for change in obligations for post-retirement benefits other than pensions Bishop of Raleigh financial report

national Special Collections 2011 -2012 Collection amount Collection for the Holy Father $96,817 (Peter’s Pence) Catholic University of America 64,011 World Mission Sunday 94,359 Catholic Campaign 92,000 Catholic Population for Human Development Retirement Fund for Religious 204,135 The Diocese of Raleigh is one of the fastest growing Church in Latin America 88,838 Dioceses in the United States. The registered Catholic population has increased by Church in Central and Eastern Europe 78,658 43% since 2000. Black and Native American Missions 73,576 Operation Rice Bowl 68,965 Catholic Relief Services 121,828 Holy Land Shrines 97,569 Catholic Home Mission Appeal 81,768 total Special Collections $1,238,385

As Catholics, we are part of a Universal Church, and we have obligations beyond our own parishes and our own Diocese. Through the generosity of the faithful in the Diocese, over $1.2 million was sent through special collections for causes supporting the poor and other important national and international church initiatives.

NC Catholics 32 Jan./Feb. 2013 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org Sacraments

A Sacrament is a sign of grace, instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church, by which divine life is dispensed to us through the light of the Holy Spirit.

7,000

6,000

5,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000

0

Baptisms First Communions Confirmations

Since 2000, the number of baptisms in the Diocese Since 2000, 22 priests have been ordained for has increased by 50% and the number of confirmations ministry in the Diocese, and the number of Deacons serving has increased by 75%. the Diocese has increased from 25 to 57 in 2012. financial report

Catholic School Enrollment

Since 2000, 8 new Catholic Schools have opened and enrollment in Catholic Schools in the Diocese has increased by 50%. During 2011-12, $547,000 was funded in Financial Aid from parishes in the Raleigh and Piedmont Deaneries for Cardinal Gibbons High School and $64,500 was disbursed for Financial Aid across the Diocese from the God’s Work, Our Challenge Tuition Assistance Endowment.

NC Catholics 34 Jan./Feb. 2013 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org Catholic Charities

Catholic Charities, a separate corporation associated with the Diocese of Raleigh with the Bishop of Raleigh as president, is The Charitable Outreach arm of the Diocese of Raleigh, serving people of all faiths across Eastern North Carolina.

For the Year July 2011 – June 2012

# of People Served 60,580 # of Volunteer Hours 53,064 # of Volunteers 1,802 Value of In Kind Gifts Received $3,990,703 21% of the Bishop’s Annual Appeal goes to support Catholic Charities

Priest Welfare and Retirement Expenditures $2.5 Million

The Diocese of Raleigh is fortunate to be served and to have been served by many Diocesan and Religious Order priests. These expenditures are part of our continuing care for the priests who have served and continue to serve the faithful of the Diocese of Raleigh. Each parish contributes to the funding of Priest Welfare and Retirement expenditures. This chart represents how those funds are spent. there are currently 21 men who are in formation for the Priesthood. financial report

Partial List of Grants Distributed in 2011 – 2012 number amount Grants to support the operating budget of small parishes (Funded by the 10 $180,296 Bishop’s Annual Appeal) Grants for parish assistance for one time projects (Funded by the 28 $85,720 Bishop’s Annual Appeal and the God’s Work – Our Challenge endowment) Endowment for the Poor Grants for Deaneries (Funded by an endowment 32 $90,403 from the sale of a portion of the historic Nazareth Land) Respect Life Grants (Funded by the Bishop’s Annual Appeal) 8 $9,840 tuition assistance Grants for Catholic schools in the Diocese (Funded 8 (129 students $78,900 by the God’s Work – Our Challenge Endowment) benefited) Campus Ministry Grants (Funded by the Bishop’s Annual Appeal. These 6 $410,000 grants provide a Catholic presence at several universities in our Diocese.) Home Mission Society Grant to St. Isidore Parish 1 $183,000

NC Catholics 36 Jan./Feb. 2013 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org Deposit & Loan Program

The Diocese operates a Deposit & Loan Program where surplus funds from parishes and schools are placed on deposit and receive interest, and where the Diocese loans those funds to other parishes for construction projects. Because of the extraordinary growth of the Diocese, the amount on deposit with the Diocese and the amount on loan from the Diocese to parishes have increased exponentially.

On Deposit from Parishes & Schools On Loan anticipated new Loans 446 deposit accounts from parishes to Parishes and Schools to be disbursed between now and and schools 87 Loans to parishes and schools 2020 for new construction $48,669,835 $46,475,459 $50,000,000

• St. Isidore, Fayetteville • Blessed Sacrament, Burlington

new Facilities Under Study, Design, or Construction at this time

• Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral, Raleigh • St. , Wake Forest – Church Building • St. Patrick, Fayetteville – Church Building • St. , Apex - Church Building • Cardinal Gibbons High School, Raleigh – Major Facility Expansion • St. Gabriel, Greenville – Pastoral Life Center • Immaculate Conception, Clinton – Parish Hall and Classrooms • St. Mark, Wilmington – Gymnasium and Classrooms • St. Michael, Cary – Parish Activity Center • Our Lady of Lourdes, Raleigh – Gymnasium, Class- Church and Facility rooms and Parking Construction in the Diocese • St. , Lumberton – Parish Hall, Offices and Classrooms new Church Buildings Dedicated since 2006 • St. Ha-Sang Paul Jung, Apex – Classroom Addition • St. Ann, Clayton – New Administrative, Education, and • Holy Cross, Durham Social Hall • St. Elizabeth of Hungary, Raeford • St. Brendan the Navigator, Shallotte These facilities, in addition to serving our grow- • St. Mary of the Angels, Mt. Olive ing Catholic population, provide a place for Catholics to • St. Eugene, Wendell receive sacraments, learn more about their faith, and be of • St. Ha-Sang Paul Jung, Apex service to those in need. parish ministry profile

the Diocese of the Justice theater Project: Raleigh St. Francis of Assisi, Raleigh

that might lead to new un- derstanding.” Past JTP productions have dealt with war and peace, the dignity of work, the death penalty and family violence. Last year’s “Light on the Horizon” (pictured), which Deb wrote and researched by interviewing residents along the Louisiana coast, dealt with the BP oil spill. The play and the discussions around it talked about issues beyond simply the environ- ment, asking, for example, “To what extent does our addiction to oil make these disasters inevitable?” Whatever the issue in question, JTP attempts to help the audience members hen Deb Royals and to explore their personal responsibility as Christians. That’s especially true of the current season, the theme of which is Megan Nerz of the “We Are Called,” from the hymn of that name. Catholic Community of “Both prior to and post-election,” Deb said, “we wanted St. Francis of Assisi began to engage the audience around political responsibility. We were really guided by the U.S. Bishops’ wonderful document theW Justice Theater Project (JTP) in 2004, on Faithful Citizenship.” Before the election JTP produced staging plays was only part of their goal. Frost/Nixon, a 2006 play based on the series of televised “Megan and I both felt it was important interviews that President Richard Nixon granted David Frost in 1977 about his administration, including his role in the for the performances to lead to productive, Watergate scandal. “It asked questions about the right use respectful discourse around issues of and abuse of political power, and what motivates politicians social justice,” Deb recalled. “So from the to seek it,” Deb said. In February, JTP will perform Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. beginning we thought of this as a ministry, “Now the election is over. What is our responsibility?” Deb and that was a key component in making asked. “We have hired the people in office. What are their us different from other theater companies.” proper roles and responsibilities? And what do we do to call them to civil discourse and cooperation in order to perform those responsibilities? ” That goal led to a unique feature of JTP productions. JTP provides a study guide to help students discuss these While the performance is at the center, every production issues, as well as learn about Shakespeare and Caesar. Dur- also offers the audience opportunities for discussion of the ing the three weeks the play is running, there will also be a issues the play raises. JTP uses panel presentations, expert series panel discussions and presentations on Shakespeare, presenters and prepares study guides for students and Caesar and social activism. adults to facilitate conversation and produce new insights. “Social justice issues can be contentious,” Deb said. “The “We always try to incorporate Catholic Social Teaching,” beauty of theater is that you can enjoy a play without auto- Deb explained, “not to twist someone’s arm and tell them matically having your defenses up. And maybe be open to how to think, but to create a space for rethinking in a way asking questions you hadn’t asked before.”

NC Catholics 38 Jan./Feb. 2013 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org

January/February 2013

715 Nazareth St. Raleigh, NC 27606 919.821.9730

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