Pope Names New Cardinals Jan

Catholic Schools Week is celebrated this month.month. SEESEE 4-PAGE4-PAGE SUPPLEMENTSUPPLEMENT INSIDEINSIDE Mercer County family POPE TWEET enjoys being Catholic Pope Francis @Pontifex Read about the Morelli family, “Today people are ﬁ ve of whom suffering from became Catholic poverty, but also last year. from lack of love." PAGE 3

www.ErieRCD.orgwww.ErieRCD.org BI-WEEKLY NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF ERIE JanuarJanuaryy 18, 2015

Special Collection Help Spread the Faith Collection Pope names new cardinals Jan. 17-18 This annual collection supports the com- Nominees nudge numbers munications efforts in the Diocese of Erie, Archbishop Pierre including Faith magazine, FaithLife newspaper, Nguyen Van Nhon of the diocesan website (www.ErieRCD.org) and Hanoi, Vietnam, is a toward greater representation cardinal-designate. all social media outreach. Give at your local CNS photo parish or send a contribution to: Offi ce of Com- VATICAN CITY (CNS)—The the college at the time was made up of munications, 429 E. Grandview Blvd., Erie, PA statistical impact of Pope Francis’ Europeans. 16504. choices for the newest members of the Borrowing a category from the College of Cardinals will be small, but world of politics and economics—the signifi cant. Group of Eight countries with the The expanded group of cardinals most advanced economies—even after eligible to elect a pope—all of those the consistory the world’s most pow- Pro-life activists under the age of 80—will include erful nations still will have a majority a lower percentage of Europeans, a among cardinal electors. But instead head to D.C. slightly lower percentage of Italians, of representing 61 percent of the elec- Nearly 300 people from the Diocese of Erie a lower percentage from the United tors, the G-8 countries’ share will drop are expected to travel to Washington, D.C., States and a higher percentage of car- to 57.5 percent. this coming week for the annual March for dinals who head dioceses rather than With the Argentina-born pope’s Life, marking the 42nd anniversary of the U.S. offi ces of the Roman Curia. latest picks, the percentage of Latin Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion After the new cardinals are cre- Americans will rise to 16 percent from in all 50 states. ated Feb. 14, the college will have 125 its current 15.4 percent. Pope Fran- People for Life in Erie will take three buses members under the age of 80 and, cis named no new members from the to Washington, with student groups repre- therefore, eligible to vote in a future United States or Canada, so that part sented from Gannon University, conclave. The total number of cardi- of the world’s percentage will fall to 12 Mercyhurst University, Penn State nals will rise to 228—a record-break- percent from its current 13.6 percent. Behrend, Mercyhurst Prep, and ing number. After the new cardinals receive their St. George School, all in Erie. Much of the reaction to Pope Fran- red hats, the percentage of Africans Other parishes/schools cis’ announcement Jan. 4 of the iden- will rise to 12 percent from 11.8 per- throughout the diocese also tities of the new cardinals focused on cent. The percentage from Asia will are traveling by bus to the how they give representation in the rise to 11.2 percent from its current 10 nation’s capital. college to Catholics in some of the percent. And, the Oceania-South Pa- Seats are still available with the most remote parts of the world, or the cifi c region, which had only one vot- People for Life contingent, according to Tim “peripheries” that the Holy Father fre- ing-age cardinal, will have three; that Broderick, president. The cost is $54 per seat quently mentions. With the addition brings the region’s percentage up to 2.4 and can be reserved by calling 814-882-1333. of electors from Ethiopia, New Zea- percent from its current 0.9 percent. People for Life buses will leave Erie at 11 p.m. land, Vietnam, Myanmar, Thailand, Bringing new members into the col- on Jan. 21 and return about 2 a.m. on Jan. 23. Uruguay, Panama, Cape Verde and lege rejuvenates the body, although in To bring more attention to life issues, People Tonga, the number of countries with the past several decades the average for Life is sponsoring two student contests in electors will rise from 48 to 57. age of cardinal electors has decreased the coming months. Among the electors, the percentage only slightly with each new intake. A Pro-life Oratory Contest for students of Europeans will drop to 46.4 percent Two of Pope Francis’ picks—Cardi- month. 60 years old was the 1977 consistory in grades 9 through 12 will be held April 11 from its current 48 percent. While not nals-designate Soane Mafi of Tonga As far as the age of the new cardi- in which Pope Paul VI created four at Blasco Memorial Library in Erie. Also, a huge change, it is a sign of continu- and Daniel Sturla Berhouet of Mon- nals goes, Pope Francis is well within new cardinals. The average age of that students in grades 7 through 12 are invited to ing progress in making the college tevideo, Uruguay—are still in their the norm for the past several decades group was 57.2 years, according to submit an essay, by March 6, on the topic of more representative of the church as 50s. However, after the consistory, when the average age of incoming www.catholic-hierarchy.org, the lead- abortion, euthanasia or stem cell research. a whole; in 1960, there were 79 mem- the average age of the whole block of electors has been between 65 and 68. ing website for statistical information Go to www.peopleforlife.org for more infor- bers of the college and they came from cardinal electors will decline only by The last time the average age of a and brief biographical data of all the mation on all People for Life activities. only 27 countries. About 70 percent of fi ve months, dropping to 71 years, one batch of new cardinals was less than world’s bishops and cardinals. Braving the cold for life Ann Badach named executive director of Catholic Charities Catholic Conference, the lobbying arm of the Catho- Outgoing lic Church in the state. She will travel to Harrisburg director devoted three times a year, following progress and trends in 36 years to the local, state and federal leg- islation relevant to Catholic Diocese of Erie Charities and the Catholic Church, serving as an advo- BY ANNE-MARIE WELSH | FAITHLIFE cate and collaborating with efforts led by the bishops of Ann M. Badach has been Pennsylvania. named executive director of Catholic Charities of Catholic Charities for the Diocese the Diocese of Erie served of Erie. The cabinet-level posi- nearly 78,000 children, ado- Photo by Anne-Marie Welsh tion oversees many programs and lescents, adults and seniors Bonnie Pratt, far left, campus minister at Penn State Behrend, joins students from area universities at agencies designed to respond to in 2013. Erie's March for Life Jan. 10. Marchers braved below-freezing temperatures that morning. the needs of people of all faiths. Catholic Charities serves “I am delighted with the re- as the umbrella for a wide Ann M. Badach sults of our search process and the network of affi liate agen- work of the committee to identify cies, including the Good Samari- of the Family Life Offi ce within our top candidate,” said Bishop tan Center in Clearfi eld, St. Mar- Catholic Charities of the Diocese Pro-life director considers service to church Lawrence T. Persico. “I have ev- tin Center in Erie, Prince of Peace of Erie since 2004. In that posi- ery confi dence in Ann’s good Center in Farrell, and St. Eliza- tion, she was responsible for all BY MARY SOLBERG | FAITHLIFE work and in her commitment to beth of Hungary Center in Oil marriage preparation and enrich- Catholic Charities.” City. The organization also over- ment programs, and assisted with Thirty-seven-year-old Brian Badach replaces Mary Max- sees two nursing homes: Christ social service coordination. She Beal has stepped down from his well, who is retiring after 11 years the King Manor in DuBois and developed the successful Transi- position as executive director of as executive director. Maxwell St. John XXIII Home in Hermit- tions program, a grief education Pro-life of Mercer County to dis- served a total of 36 years with the age. and support ministry for divorced, cern how to serve the church in Diocese of Erie. Harborcreek Youth Services, separated and widowed persons. other ways. “It will be a privilege to sup- Better Homes in Erie, and Catho- Prior to working with the dio- “Brian is an impressive young port and promote the work our lic Rural Ministry with services in cese, she spent six years as a fam- man. He’s got a very deep, deep affi liate directors and agencies do Clarion, Venango, Crawford, For- ily counselor/caseworker with faith and he’s a very good per- every day,” Badach said. “Being est, Potter and McKean counties Family Services of Northwestern son,” said Bob Lackey, an attor- Contributed photo invited to sit at the table with all are also affi liated with Catholic PA. She also has served multiple ney and the chairperson of the of the people who work tirelessly Charities. terms as a member of the parish board for the pro-life organiza- Members of the board of Pro-life of Mercer County gathered in within the organization energizes Its Counseling and Adoption and pastoral councils at St. Mark tion. the fall to thank Brian Beal for his decade of service to Pro-life of me.” Services has satellite offi ces in 12 Parish in Lawrence Park. Not surprisingly, Beal’s unas- Mercer County. Pictured, left to right, are: Bob Lackey, Jean Bal- As executive director, she counties. In addition, outreach Bishop Persico commended suming nature wouldn’t permit cerzak, Geraldine Abi-Nader, Dr. Walter Beh, Kathy Jack, Brian will serve as the offi cial liaison programs based at St. Mark Cath- Mary Maxwell, outgoing execu- him to comment for this story, but Beal, Joanne Schell, Joan Walker and Susan Wallace. Seated are between all Catholic Charities olic Center in Erie include the tive director, for her decades of he acknowledged his love of the Antonietta and Michael May. agencies and programs and the offi ces of Family Life, Disability service to the diocese. pro-life movement and the impor- bishop of Erie, collaborating with and Deaf Ministries, Parish So- “In the name of the Diocese tance of faith in his life. lege to work with pregnancy cen- dio/visual truck, a traveling bill- program directors on a regular cial Ministry/Respect Life, and of Erie, we are extremely grate- A member of Our Lady of ters and churches and to speak at board for the pro-life movement. basis. She also will represent the Diocesan and International Mis- ful for the many years of dedica- Fatima Parish, Farrell, Beal was schools, youth groups and after- He also coordinated an effort to interests of Catholic Charities sions. tion, commitment and hard work hired as executive director of Pro- school programs to proclaim that place thousands of small pink and and build coalitions with exter- Badach, who holds a bache- that Mary Maxwell has rendered life of Mercer County in 2004. “life to the full” involves saving blue crosses at locations through- nal entities including community lor’s degree in human ecology/in- in her service to the neediest in In his 10 years in that post, he the gift of sex until marriage. Mis- out the county to show the over- and government agencies, other dividual and family studies from our diocese,” Bishop Persico designed an active pro-life organi- sionaries of Purity now operates whelming number of abortions churches and non-government or- Mercyhurst University and a mas- said. zation and raised about $300,000 independently from Pro-life of performed in this country. ganizations. In addition, Badach ter’s in public administration and Badach will step into the po- for various projects, including the Mercer County. Pro-life of Mercer County is will serve on the Social Concerns pastoral leadership from Gannon sition of executive director on Missionaries of Purity, an effort Also, Beal raised funds for planning to hire another executive Committee of the Pennsylvania University, has served as director March 2. to enlist young people out of col- Pro-life of Mercer County’s au- director. Snippets of Catholic headlines and stories from around the world from Catholic News Service Catholic media U.S. Congress includes high the Italian bishops’ conference. Showing 'full measure' of Christ's love percentage of Catholics The panel declared Jan. 8 that the archbishop had been killed “in hatred for the faith,” Avvenire reported Jan. 9. The the grace of God, people were sharing the WASHINGTON (CNS)—Once again, there are more decision is a key step in the archbishop’s cause, following Catholics in Congress than members of any other religious sign of peace. Everyone was hugging and an extended debate over whether he was killed for political kissing and shaking hands. denomination. And the numbers stay strong term after reasons or for his faith. The next step in the process lies term. The boy and I talked briefl y about how with the cardinals and bishops who sit on the Congregation Editor’s people pray in church and then we both Although Catholics account for only about 22 percent for Saints’ Causes, who of the U.S. population—admittedly the largest body of re- went on our way. To this day, I think about will vote on whether to Notes that exchange. It was a moment of clarity ligious belief in the country—they make up 31 percent of advise the pope to issue the House and the Senate. If you’re looking for differences when I realized the importance of being a a decree of beatifi ca- Mary journalist for the Catholic press. between the two major parties, there are some, but Catho- tion. lics still are overrepresented in both the Democratic and SOLBERG Pope Francis talks about the value of so- A miracle is not cial media in spreading the truth of Jesus Republican parties. needed for beatifi cation There are 83 Catholics among the 234 Democrats in Christ, but his predecessor St. John Paul II of a martyr, though a told journalists during a 1987 visit to the the House or Senate, good for 35 percent of the Demo- miracle is ordinarily A moment comes in everyone’s life when crats’ total, and 81 Catholics among the 301 Republicans it becomes clear why we do what we do. In United States: “You must ask yourself if needed for his or her what you communicate is consistent with in Congress, or 27 percent of the GOP’s total, according canonization as a saint. my professional career as a journalist, that to fi gures issued in a Pew Research Center study issued moment came one summer evening about the full measure of human dignity.” Archbishop Romero, an The duty of every Catholic news person shortly before the 114th Congress was sworn in Jan. 6. outspoken advocate for 20 years ago outside a church on Erie’s eastside. is to expose this “full measure” of Christ’s the poor, was shot and love for all of us—whether we live in a killed March 24, 1980, Reporting for the diocesan paper at the Theologians recognize slain time, I was covering a weeklong revival of wealthy suburb or in a neighborhood over- as he celebrated Mass in come by violence. We must open the door Archbishop Romero as martyr a hospital in San Salva- the black Catholic community at Immacu- CNS photo late Conception Church on E. 16th Street. of the Catholic faith so that everyone can VATICAN CITY (CNS)—A panel of theologians ad- dor during his country’s see what my little friend did that day when civil war. His sainthood Just a few years earlier, as a cub reporter vising the Vatican’s Congregation for Saints’ Causes voted Salvadoran Archbishop Oscar with the Times Publishing Co., I had been he peeked inside the church: joy, love and unanimously to recognize the late Salvadoran Archbishop cause was opened at the Romero is pictured in a 1979 peace. Vatican in 1993. in nearly the same neighborhood searching Oscar Romero as a martyr, according to the newspaper of photo in San Salvador. for details about a particularly gruesome Today, parishioners throughout the Dio- murder of a woman found dead under a cese of Erie are being asked to donate to the bridge. annual Help Spread the Faith collection. Its Vatican views Sadly, the area has been affected by purpose is to benefi t all forms of communi- 'Unbroken' violence for many years. That particular cation in our diocese, including this news- VATICAN CITY— summer evening outside Immaculate Con- paper and our bi-monthly magazine, Faith. Pope Francis meets ception, a couple of little kids on bicycles Contributions will help the Offi ce of Com- U.S. actress Angelina approached me as I prepared to enter the munications maintain and improve our so- Jolie during a private small church. Interested in my camera and cial media presence on Twitter, YouTube audience at the Vatican notebook, one little boy looked up at me and Facebook. Jan. 8. and asked, “What do they do in there?” Now that the two-year pastoral planning Jolie met with the “What do you think?” I responded. process is fully underway in the diocese, it’s pope after a screening “They shoot people,” he said. vital that we maintain healthy, open conver- at the Vatican of her Jaded by all of the murders, fatalities and sations with parishes and schools. One way fi lm “Unbroken.” drownings I had covered as a daily newspa- we do that is through the diocesan website, The movie depicts per reporter, I still wasn’t prepared for this www.ErieRCD.org/planning.asp. the life of Louie Zam- one child’s view of the world. His experi- These are all forms of communication perini, a World War II ence of violence must have prompted him in which we can keep revealing the face of veteran who survived to ask this seemingly natural question. Christ to our readers. 47 days in a raft and “No, no!” I exclaimed. “Come here and endured years of tor- look inside.” Mary Solberg is the editor of FaithLife. ture in a POW camp. I held open the heavy, wooden doors of Email: [email protected] the church—just a crack—so that the boy Call 814-824-1171 CNS photo could peek inside. At that very moment, by Twitter: @ERIERCDsolberg Dignity defi ned Pope visits Philippines Number of abortions declines in PA

deserving respect, praise or attention; hav- Catholic teaching affi rms that human ing enough good qualities to be considered beings have inherent worth simply because Guest important or useful. they are human, regardless of their charac- If you have ever watched proud grand- teristics. The church also affi rms that hu- Commentary parents meet their fi rst grandchild, you have man life begins at conception. The embryo A.B. Hill seen the kind of praise and attention and, is a new and unique life that must be rec- indeed, the dignity and respect that all hu- ognized as a human being who possesses man life deserves. the rights and inherent dignity of a person. Respecting human dignity is an im- Most importantly, this developing human portant precept of our Catholic faith. The possesses the right to life. If God is worthy Catechism of the Catholic Church says our of our honor and respect and every human dignity as human beings is rooted in our person is made in his image and likeness, As we ring in the New Year, there is a creation in the image and likeness of God. then we all have his dignity, no exceptions. reason for hope in Pennsylvania: the num- (CCC No. 1700) Downward trends in abortion are a good ber of abortions in the state decreased 7 per- “The Gospel of God’s love for man, the sign. Maybe our culture is beginning to un- cent. The year-end report shows that nearly Gospel of the dignity of the person and the derstand human dignity a bit more. Despite 2,500 fewer abortions occurred in 2013 than Gospel of life are a single and indivisible this encouraging decrease, the fact that the in 2012. The total of 32,108 is the lowest Gospel,” wrote St. John Paul II in Evange- lives of more than 32,000 babies were de- number on record to date. lium Vitae. “In the life of man, God’s image stroyed through abortion in 2013 reminds There were also fewer live births in Penn- shines forth anew and is again revealed in us that much prolife advocacy needs to be sylvania in 2013, but the decrease was less all its fullness at the coming of the Son of done. By the mercy of God and determina- than 2 percent. I wish statistics could prove God in human fl esh. ‘Christ is the image of tion, perhaps one day we will ring in a New that respect is growing for the dignity of hu- the invisible God’ (Collossians 1:15), he ‘re- Year with a 100 percent decrease in abor- man life in the womb; but numbers alone fl ects the glory of God and bears the very tions. cannot explain the downward trend in abor- stamp of his nature’ (Hebrews 1:3). He is tions. We can see that more mothers are the perfect image of the Father.” A.B Hill is communications director of the choosing life for their babies, but the statis- The presence of human life makes visible Pennsylvania Catholic Conference, the public ticians did not ask them why. Even if they the invisible reality of God’s holy presence. affairs agency of Pennsylvania’s Catholic bish- did, would the average person understand Every child conceived refl ects God’s infi nite ops and the Catholic dioceses of Pennsylvania. what human dignity means? love, his perfect justice and his boundless Stay up-to-date with Catholic news and issues The dictionary defi nes dignity as a qual- mercy. This is the foundation of our zeal for at www.pacatholic.org, www.facebook.com/pa- ity of being worthy of honor or respect. Be- protecting human life from conception to catholic and www.twitter.com/pacatholic. ing worthy means something is good and natural death.

The bi-weekly newspaper of the Catholic Diocese of Erie. St. Mark Catholic Center, 429 East Grandview Blvd. Erie, Pa. 16504 Publisher: The Most Rev. Lawrence T. Persico Grandfather Clock Executive Editor: Anne-Marie Welsh Website: www.ErieRCD.org Editor: Mary Solberg Volume 11, Issue 1 Repair Graphic Design: Rich Papalia Advertising Manager: Brenda Williams Member of the Catholic Press Association Advertising Design: Elizabeth Butterﬁ eld Subscription: $10/year Periodical postage paid at Erie, PA Email: [email protected] Postmaster: Send address changes to: (814) 282-6435 Editorial: 814-824-1171 FaithLife at St. Mark Catholic Center Advertising: 814-824-1168 (Leave Message) General Information: 814-824-1161 The Ofﬁ ce of Communications has been serving Catholics of the Diocese of Erie since 1874.

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News Briefs Family ‘signs on all the way’ to Catholic faith SSJs offer info on becoming an Agrégée BY MARY SOLBERG | FAITHLIFE vice president of opera- ERIE—The Sisters of St. Joseph of Northwestern Pennsylva- tions and sales for PM nia invite contemporary Catholic women seeking to deepen their It’s always comforting to hear Recovery of Greenville. spiritual lives to learn more about becoming an Agrégée (ah-greh- your children say they love reli- Always active in their ZHEY), the newest form of connection to the religious commu- gious education classes. Christian faith, the fam- nity. For Tonya Morelli, it was ily had been members The sisters will host an information night on Jan. 26 at 7 p.m. enough reason to decide to join of a Lutheran church at their Community Living Center, 5031 West Ridge Road in Mill- the Church of the Good Shep- and had all of their chil- creek. herd in West Middlesex. Baptized dren—which included a Baptist, Morelli began to feel triplets—baptized as Eastside parish taking Lenten orders so at home at the Mercer County Lutherans. It wasn’t un- parish that she decided to become til moving to Hermitage ERIE—Holy Trinity Parish in Erie is taking pre-orders through a Roman Catholic along with her that the wheels really Feb. 2 for Lenten pierogi and potato pancake batter. Pierogi are four children. started turning about $14 per dozen or $8 for six. Pancake batter is $6 for a small tub and They were welcomed into full becoming active in the $10 for a large. communion with the Catholic Catholic Church. Fax orders to 814-461-1150 or call 814-456-0671. Mail orders Church at the Easter Vigil last Their son Paul, then to: Holy Trinity Parish, 2220 Reed St., Erie, PA 16503. Order pick- year. Tonya’s husband, Dave, a fourth-grader, didn’t up dates are Feb. 14 and Feb. 15 at the Holy Trinity Social Center, already a baptized Catholic, re- quite feel comfortable E. 23rd and Reed streets, Erie. turned to active participation in in the public school set- the church. ting, so they started to Contributed photo Gannon University hires alumni director Today—almost a year later— consider other educa- Msgr. Robert Malene, pastor of Church of the Good Shepherd, West Middle- ERIE—Nancy Bird, a 1984 graduate of Villa Maria Academy Tonya is a lector and Dave is a tional opportunities in sex, stands with the Morelli family at the Easter Vigil last year. Pictured, left in Erie, has been hired as Gannon University’s new director of Eucharistic minister. Two of their the area. The day before to right, are: Thomas, Michael and Kate; Msgr. Malene; and Tonya, Paul and alumni services. boys are altar servers, while their Halloween, he visited Dave Morelli. Bird is no stranger to development daughter and another son sing in St. Michael School in and alumni work. She is the former di- the church choir. Greenville. tem but are active members of ably convert to the other’s reli- rector of constituent relations for Cathe- “When we signed on, we “Paul came out of St. Mi- Church of the Good Shepherd. gion. But they were committed to dral Preparatory School and Villa Maria signed on all the way,” Tonya chael's that day and said, ‘Mom, “They fi t right in—hook, line their Christian faith. Dave says he Academy, both in Erie. After graduating says. this is where I’m supposed to go and sinker,” says Msgr. Malene, never pressured Tonya to become from Villa Maria, she went on to earn her In 2012, the Morellis moved to school,’” Tonya recalls. pastor. Catholic. bachelor’s degree from Penn State Uni- from South Carolina to Mercer The triplets—Michael, Thom- After Tonya and Dave got “I’ve been married long versity in 1988. County after Dave was trans- as and Kate, 13—all have re- married in 1993, they knew that enough to know that pressure “Gannon’s current leadership is fo- ferred for his position as senior mained in the public school sys- neither one of them would prob- doesn’t work,” Dave says. “It was cused on innovation, community service more important to me to have a and globalization, offering our students Nancy Bird happy marriage and my kids go- the very best tools to become successful ing to church.” leaders,” Bird says. “The dynamic nature of Gannon’s campus Bishop visits Holy Family School Now that the whole fam- makes this a terrifi c time to share the excitement with our alumni.” ily is Catholic, Dave says it has spawned some interesting conver- sations about why Catholics do Totus Tuus Academy meets in February what they do. WEST MIDDLESEX—The next Totus Tuus Academy in the “There have been some op- Shenango Valley will be held Feb. 2 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Church portunities to discuss spiritual of the Good Shepherd, 3613 Sharon Road, West Middlesex. things,” Dave says. Totus Tuus (Totally Yours) is a Catholic youth movement for For Paul, now 12 and in sixth teens in grades 7 to 12. The gatherings are held the fi rst Monday grade at St. Michael School, the of every month. best thing about being Catholic is Totus Tuus is sponsored by the Diocese of Erie, but is not affi li- simply saying that he’s Catholic. ated with any particular parish. Teenagers are invited regardless of “It’s pretty cool,” Paul says. the church or school they attend. For more information, call Mark “When we weren’t Catholic, I Jaskowak at 724-748-6700, ext. 113. was one of the only kids who didn’t get Communion, so now I Pro-life of Mercer County to host breakfast can.” The fact that Paul has thrived HERMITAGE—Pro-life of Mercer County will host its 13th spiritually and academically is a annual prayer breakfast Feb. 7 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at the Hickory testament to the quality educa- VFW in Hermitage. tion and care that is offered at St. Keynote speaker is Gordon Thomas. He and his wife, Dawn, Michael School. were named Parents of the Year in Pennsylvania in 2009. “I like that it is a throwback. The event will be held at the Hickory VFW, 5550 East State St., It is very loving, but is still very Hermitage. The deadline to purchase tickets is Feb. 4, by calling structured,” Tonya says. Joanne Schell at 330-448-4577, Susan Wallace at 724-588-0775, And besides, Paul keeps the or Bob Lackey at 724-342-6835. The cost is $13 for adults; $6 for family centered in their Catho- children through teens. lic faith around the dinner table, often reminding everyone to say Cursillo charity event scheduled in Erie grace before meals. Contributed photo Says Tonya, “He knows his ERIE—The Cursillo past presidents’ annual charity K.I.S.S. Bishop Lawrence Persico recently met with students and staff at Holy Family School in Erie. During his Dance will be held Feb. 7 from 7 to 11 p.m. in Hastings Hall at Catholic prayers better than ev- visit, he talked to each classroom. The bishop is pictured here with Father Robert O’Hara, pastor, and eryone.” Holy Rosary Church, located at the corner of E. 28th Street and members of the fourth-grade. East Avenue, Erie. Advance ticket sales are $7 per person and are available at Cur- sillo events or by contacting Tim at [email protected] or 814- 825-9183. Tickets purchased at the door are $10 per person. One does not need to have made a Cursillo weekend to attend the dance. There will be a DJ and a 50-50 cash drawing. This ERIE DIOCESAN is a BYOB event, with munchies, pop and draft beer provided. MakingWOODWORKING, Fine Church Furniture LLC Since All proceeds will go to the Sisters of St. Joseph Neighborhood CEMETERIES Network East. 2831 Zimmerman Road, Erie 814-453-5110 Mausoleum/Niche space and Spaghetti dinner scheduled at Erie church custom cabinetry z church furnishings Full size/cremation grave space ERIE—Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish invites the public to available attend its 20th annual spaghetti dinner, sponsored by Knights of millwork z wall units Columbus Council #4071, at Scheffner Hall, 1553 E. Grandview CALL 814-838-7724 Blvd., Erie. www.schuttewoodworking.net The dinner will be held Feb. 22 from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Adult tickets at the door are $8. Adult tickets purchased in advance are $7.50. Senior citizens (60 and older) can buy a ticket for $6.50 per person. Call 814-825-6706 for tickets or more information.

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If you need help paying your heating bills, or know someone who does, the Low Income Seeking Music Director Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can help. Applications are now being accepted. Our Lady of Mercy Church However, funds are very limited and will be distributed on a ﬁrst-come, ﬁrst-served basis. Don’t Suburban parish of 600 families with a tradition of diverse musical delay, apply now. A little help can make a big difference. For more information, or to see if you styles seeks a part-time (24 hrs/wk) music ministry director. qualify, visit LIHEAPhelps.com, call 1-866-857-7095 or apply online at www.dhs.state.pa.us. Responsibilities include: planning and leading music for three weekend Masses and special liturgies; training, scheduling and recruiting music ministers; working collaboratively with the staff. The ideal candidate has a B.A. in Music or commensurate training, strong keyboard and vocal skills, knowledge of Catholic Liturgy and ability to plan integrated liturgies; good communication and organizational skills, adaptable. Technics SXPro602 Keyboard. Salary $15,000-$20,000. Submit cover letter, and résumé with references by January 31st. Job description available on website. Mail: 837 Bartlett Rd., Harborcreek, PA 16421 Phone: (814) 899-5342 Email: [email protected] | | Website: www.ourladyofmercychurch.org LIHEAPhelps.com 1-866-857-7095 www.dhs.state.pa.us Parishioners honored at St. Joseph Pork and kraut fest held at St. Boniface Scarves to spread warmth during rally

OIL CITY—Four parishioners were honored in November with a Medal for Service at the 150th anniversary Mass at St. Joseph Parish, CLARION—Members of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Oil City. Bishop Lawrence Persico and Greensburg Bishop Lawrence ERIE—St. Boniface Parish in Erie hosted another successful Pork Court 2454, knitted scarves for Clarion University students who plan Brandt were on-hand for the parish festivities. Pictured, left to right, and Kraut Festival in November. Some of the festival proceeds were to attend the March for Life Rally in Washington, D.C., this week. The are: Bishop Persico, parishioners Patricia Welsh, Kimberlee Fornof donated to two area programs serving the community. Checks for $510 scarves were knitted in the university’s colors: blue and gold. Pictured and David Zlotnicki; Bishop Brandt; and Father Justin Pino, pastor. were given to both the Greater Erie Area Habitat for Humanity and to are: Father Monty Sayers, pastor of Immaculate Conception Church, Not present for the photo was award recipient Joseph Emaneule. the Greene Township Lions Club. Festival volunteer Penny Warmbrod Clarion; Barb Speer, a knitter and CD of A offi cer; Dr. Thomas is shown presenting a check to Tom Feeney of the Lions Club. Rourke, adviser to the Students for Life at Clarion University; Colleen O’Neil, president of Students for Life; and Ann Enderle Liska, director of Campus Ministry at Clarion. The scarves were presented dur- Potluck luncheon held at Holy Trinity Confi rmation students host event ing the Blessing of the Brains Brunch, an event hosted by Immaculate Conception parishioners for Clarion University students preparing for fi nals.

St. Luke youth named Miss Polonaise ERIE—The East Side Fed- eration of Polish American Societies sponsored the 50th Polonaise Ball last Nov. 1 at the Polish Falcons Club in Erie, naming Marianna Gunshore “Miss Polonaise” for this year. The daughter of Paul and Angela Gunshore and the late Gregory Pianka, she is a mem- DuBOIS—Confi rmation candidates of St. Bernard, St. Joseph and ber of St. Luke Parish, Erie, St. Michael the Archangel parishes hosted an intergenerational event having volunteered as a reli- for Advent last month. Pictured are Larina and Katrina Good, Nicole gious education assistant. McDowell, Kayla Boykin and Michelle Wenerd as they prepare to serve “grasshoppers and honey” to participants. Antorcha Guadalupana 5K DCC supports Grady’s Decision brings out the fi re RAMEY—Father Zab Amar, pastor of Holy Trinity Parish, Ra- mey, celebrated Christmas with parishioners at their annual potluck luncheon. Pictured with Father Amar is Melinda Stodart, one of the newest members of Holy Trinity and a convert to Catholicism, and her husband, Craig Stodart. They are expecting their fi rst child in March.

Cookie Walk is a sweet event

DuBOIS—The families of DuBois Central Catholic Elementary YOUNGSVILLE—The 11th annual Cookie Walk at St. Luke School recently collected $730 for Grady’s Decision, a charitable orga- Church in Youngsville took place on the third Sunday of Advent. Pa- nization that helps families coping with premature births and children rishioners baked an assortment of more than 40 dozen cookies. For with special needs. Presenting the check, left to right in the front row, a small donation people walked around a display table, ﬁ lling their CONNEAUT LAKE—The Antorcha Guadalupana 5K Run/Walk held Dec. 13 in Conneaut Lake attracted many participants to celebrate are: students Macki Eldridge, Lilah Casagrande and Jack Stringer. buckets provided by Whirley Drink Works. Ten percent of what was In the back row, left to right, are: Gretchen Caruso, principal; Amy raised beneﬁ ts a local charity. the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, patroness of the Americas. Shown carrying a torch during the event is Jordan Kullen, followed by Smith, DuBois coordinator of Grady’s Decision; and Michael Arma- Ben Kullen and Father Jeff Lucas, pastor of Our Lady Queen of the nini, headmaster. The funds collected will be used to help families at Americas. the local Penn Highlands NICU. Blessed Sacrament School O CAT NG H Open House: Sunday, January 25 A O L 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. N I Preschool through 8th grade E C V Meet teachers, students and faculty Safe Two/$500 Scholarship Drawings for

New Families entering K-8th H L 2510 Greengarden Rd., Erie, PA 16502 I O Faithful G H O 814-455-1387 • [email protected] SC H Strong Curriculum Sports & Extras Awaken the Wonder in Your Preschooler Affordable Mercy Center of the Arts YOU! Local Catholic - Family Owned OPEN HOUSE Receiving applications now • Tour anytime Physical Therapy, LLC Financial aid available (applications due 3/31) Sunday, Jan. 25, 9-12:30 (KUHQ7URVW037$7&&HUW0'7 Questions? Call us or email NEW BUSINESS LOCATION: 2ZQHU3K\VLFDO7KHUDSLVW 444 East Grandview Blvd.

Ss. Cosmas & Damian School Punxsutawney DuBois Central Catholic High School DuBois Central Catholic Middle School DuBois Central Catholic Elementary School

Elk County Catholic High School St. Thomas Catholic School St. Marys Catholic Corry Middle School St. Marys Catholic St. Bernard Elementary School Elementary/Middle School Bradford St. Patrick School Kennedy Catholic St. Leo School Franklin High School Ridgway Hermitage

Kennedy Catholic Middle School Hermitage St. Joseph School Warren

The impact of a Catholic school education continues long after students graduate. Just ask these people who attended Catholic schools inspire: Catholic schools in the Diocese of Erie and went on to pursue college and careers.

a donor a college student a teacher a social worker

Dr. Richard Neuer Colleen O’Neil Brian Markley Grace Marshall 1949 graduate of Cathedral Prep, Erie 2011 graduate of Kennedy Catholic High School, 1989 graduate of Cathedral Prep, Erie 1973 graduate of DuBois Central Catholic 1945 graduate of Sacred Heart School, Erie Hermitage 1985 graduate of Holy Rosary School, Erie 1969 graduate of St. Joseph Elementary, DuBois 2007 graduate of St. Joseph Elementary, Sharon Dr. Richard Neuer, an optometrist in North East Brian Markley, 43, graduated in 1994 from Ed- At 59, Grace Marshall works as the program di- for 30 years, retired in 1994, along with his brother A senior at Clarion University of Pennsylvania, inboro University of Pennsylvania with a degree rector of Personal Habilitation Services in DuBois. Jack, also an optometrist who practiced in Erie. Colleen O’Neil keeps her Catholic faith No. 1 in her in medical technologies. He started working right Her Catholic education, she says, was the founda- The brothers looked back on their lives and saw life. Her upbringing in Catholic schools, she says, away at the Soldiers & Sailors Hospital in Wells- tion for her career in social services. Currently, she how much they benefi ted from their Catholic school forged a strong belief in serving God and others. boro, Pa., and then returned to Erie to work at As- works with intellectually and developmentally dis- upbringing. O’Neil graduated in 2007 from the former St. Jo- sociated Clinical Labs. abled people. In the 1930s and ‘40s, the Neuers didn’t have to seph Elementary School in Sharon. She then went “Both places were teaching institutions and I “I have a hands-on approach professionally. I pay anything to attend Sacred Heart School. And on to graduate from Kennedy Catholic High School. found out that I really enjoyed working with the like to know the families and individuals,” Mar- they only paid $50 per student per year at Prep. At Clarion University, she is an active member students who were assigned there,” Markley says. shall says. “I was taught at a very young age that While attending the Pennsylvania College of Op- of Students for Life and serves as president of the It wasn’t long before he returned to school for his religion is not just a subject or topic; it’s something tometry, Richard Neuer realized how well Catholic Newman Association. She’s also a member of YCA teaching certifi cate in secondary science education. you put into action.” schools prepared him for higher education. (Young Conservatives) and is on the executive board With the support of his wife, Melissa, he graduated The daughter of the late James D. Fuller, a In 1996, both Richard and Jack decided to re- of YAL (Young Americans for Liberty). and was hired immediately at Prep. Now in his longtime Catholic school supporter, Marshall and member Catholic schools in their wills. A portion “Catholic schools taught me to be determined and 15th year at the school, he teaches three levels of most of her siblings attended Catholic schools. She of their estates will go to elementary and secondary not be afraid to share my faith,” says the 21-year-old chemistry. married Michael Marshall, a local attorney and a schools in the Diocese of Erie. O’Neil. “Serving Christ is the most important part He looked to his late aunt, Shirley Markley, as a member of the Byzantine Rite, who agreed to en- Jack is now a resident of Saint Mary’s Home, of my life.” role model. She taught for 40 years in Erie’s Catho- roll their four children in DuBois Catholic schools. Erie; Richard lives in Millcreek. In high school, O’Neil participated in Adoration lic schools. “For me, I knew the benefi ts of the education “We just felt it was payback time,” says Dr. twice a month. The school motto, Christo Servire (To “I always saw how happy she was,” Markley that I got. I was well-rounded and wanted the same Neuer, 83. Serve Christ), was a guiding force in food drives and says. “She was a big infl uence.” for my children. Religion is the thing that helps you Catholic schools, he explains, provide a strong other charitable works. For Markley, the best thing about teaching in a survive,” Marshall says. “Catholic schools offer a fi rst level of education for children and promote vo- A member of St. Joseph Church, Sharon, O’Neil Catholic school is that teachers and students can close-knit community. My husband saw that the cations to the religious life and the priesthood. is majoring in rehabilitative sciences with a concen- talk about faith. He starts each day with a time to church, home and schools were all together when “Basically,” Dr. Neuer adds, “I hope the kids tration in gerontology. She is minoring in political pray for intentions. During Lent, he shares spiritual our children attended Catholic schools. That makes of the future have the same opportunities that we science. refl ections with the boys in his classes. a huge difference.” had.” “It’s all about building lifelong relationships. The tradition continues. All of the Marshall We’re like a family,” Markley adds. children are now adults and some are even sending their children to Catholic schools.

Snapshot of schools DEMOGRAPHIC BREAKDOWN PROFESSIONAL STAFF  Students in grades 4-7 scored above the  Catholic, non-Catholic and low-income  Professional employees in our Catholic 60th percentile in all tests when compared ENROLLMENT student enrollment (in percent) schools: 692 to national norms.  Total Catholic school enrollment in the Diocese Elementary level: Low income: 26.3%  Teachers (full- and part-time): 638 of Erie (all schools): 7,943 Catholic: 79% Elementary/middle school teachers: 420 SCHOLARSHIPS  Total enrollment K-12: 6,878 Non-Catholic: 21% Secondary school teachers: 218 K-8 elementary school enrollment: 4,790  More than 1/3 of students attending Secondary level: Low income: 17.8%  Lay: 95% Catholic schools receive scholarship 9-12 secondary school enrollment: 2,088 Catholic: 79.2%  Total enrollment Pre-K: 1,065 (28 elementary  Religious/clergy: 5% assistance through diocesan funding. Non-Catholic: 20.8%  Student/teacher ratio is 12:1 schools have Pre-K programs)  For the 2015-16 school year, more than  Total parochial students (K-12) in the City of SCHOOLS $3 million will be available through various Erie: 2,319  38 Catholic schools in the Diocese of Erie ACHIEVEMENT TEST RESULTS scholarship programs offered through the  Total parochial students (K-12) in Erie County Elementary schools: 28  8th-grade students scored above the diocese. 4,211: (includes city total) Middle schools: 3 70th percentile when compared to the  Total parochial students (K-12) in remaining 12 Secondary schools: 7 national norms in math, reading, language Statistics compiled by Catholic Schools Ofﬁ ce counties: 2,667 and science. Diocese of Erie 2 JANUARY 18, 2015 CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK FAITHLIFE SUPPLEMENT Catholic schools plan: Education Task Force reviews data for long-term viability

BY MARY SOLBERG | FAITHLIFE Thirty-eight Catholic schools in northwestern Pennsylvania are a “signifi cant piece” of the two- year pastoral planning process currently underway in the Diocese of Erie, according to offi cials exam- ining data for the strategic plan. “Education is at the core of the future of the parishes and the whole process,” says John Davidson, chairperson of the Catholic Education Task Force of the Pastoral Planning Committee. “What’s really exciting to me is that everything is interrelated: parishes, schools, vocations, faith formation and diocesan ministries.” Davidson, a member of St. Joseph Parish, Sha- ron, took over as chair of the Education Task Force last fall. He knew it would be a big job, considering the number of schools and the nearly 8,000 students enrolled in kindergarten through 12th grade. A product of Catholic schools, Davidson sent his own children to parochial schools and strongly be- lieves in keeping Catholic education vital for the future. “When we fi rst met as a Pastoral Planning • School funding the early fi ndings. Parish listening sessions are ex- Committee, we talked about gathering data from John Davidson is chairperson of the Catholic • Financial data pected to begin in the spring. parishes and schools. That’s certainly going to be Education Task Force for the diocese. • Tuition rates Davidson says the Education Task Force will use a key component of what we’re going to do and • Scholarship sources any and all data to create a document that will in- how we will make recommendations. The goal is ciated with schools, school presidents, headmasters, • Foundation/school endowments form Bishop Lawrence Persico about the state of to provide the best Catholic education we can,” and representatives of regional advisory boards. • Current educational programming and desired schools in the diocese. The document will be based Davidson says. “To me, it’s how to most effi ciently Visits also included tours of the facilities. programming on a planning tool, titled “Key Indicators for Healthy and appropriately provide Catholic education in “We’re not at the point where we have conclu- • Current and needed support from the Catholic Schools,” which includes three components: this diocese.” sions from the Schools Offi ce. • What is a distinctly Catholic school? On Jan. 7, data,” Alan Meitler “Our visits to the schools were very pleasing, • Academic excellence. the Catholic says. "The infor- interesting and informative,” Signorino says. • Indicators for fi scally healthy schools. Education Task The goal is to provide the best mation will give us The Education Task Force will review the in- “This provides a template, a measurement of how Force, which an honest picture formation collected so far and there will be time healthy a school is and a roadmap on how to improve consists of 12 Catholic education we can. of where schools for the other task forces (Parish Listening, Voca- health,” Davidson explains. members, met “ — John Davidson stand and suggest tion, Ministries and Faith Formation) to discuss with representa- possibilities for the tives of Meitler, future.” a planning fi rm based in Milwaukee, Wisc. They The Education Task” Force is one of fi ve task forc- discussed data that has been collected in visits to es of the Pastoral Planning Committee to have an all elementary, middle and high schools in the 13 opportunity to discuss information gathered so far. Task force members 'live and breathe' counties of the diocese this past fall and early win- According to Signorino, several topics were cov- ter. ered at each school, including, but not limited to: Catholic education in Diocese of Erie Alan Meitler and Rick Pendergast, both senior • Catholic identity consultants at Meitler, visited the schools with Sam • Support the schools provide to parishes The Catholic Education Task Jerome C. Wegley, Esq. Signorino, director of Catholic Schools and School • Support the parishes provide to schools Force of the Pastoral Planning Attorney with Knox, McLaughlin, Personnel. They met with principals, pastors asso- • Demographics Committee includes 12 people Gornall & Sennett, Erie; involved who have strong links to sustain- with merger of Cathedral Prep ing parochial schools in the and Villa Maria Academy, Erie Diocese of Erie. “They’ve all lived and breathed Molly Bean Catholic schools for years,” says Mary Agnes Marshall Director of school improvement John Davidson, chair of the task 40 years of experience in Cath- services, Northwest Tri-County force. “I was very impressed that olic schools in Elk County; in- Intermediate Unit 5, Edinboro they all wanted to be involved.” volved in regionalization of Cath- The task force members share olic schools in Elk County Tom Feeney some common denominators: Chair of parish fi nance council, A genuine interest in Catho- Father T. Shane Mathew St. Boniface Parish, Erie lic education. Headmaster of Venango Catholic A desire to see helpful, ef- High School, Oil City Dr. Phil Belfi ore fective change to bolster Catholic Vice president of academic af- schools. Dr. Samuel Signorino fairs, professor, Mercyhurst Uni- Director, Catholic Schools and versity, Erie Here are the Education Task School Personnel Force members: Diocese of Erie Father Phillip A. Pinczewski Pastor, St. Callistus Parish, Kane John P. Davidson, chair- Aaron Straub person, graduate of Catholics Teacher, director of athletics at Msgr. Joseph Riccardo schools and vice president of Hu- Elk County Catholic, St. Marys Pastor, Ss. Cosmas and Damian man Resources for Sharon Re- Parish/School, Punxsutawney. gional Health Systems

Dr. Mark A. Jubulis Photos by Anne-Marie Welsh Professor at Gannon University, Co-ed 2-yr-old Preschool through 8th grade Erie Members of the Catholic Education Task Force of the Pastoral Planning Committee have been gathering Founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph in 1892 since the fall to get a comprehensive view of Catholic schools in the Diocese of Erie.

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ST. BONIFACE SCHOOL 2XU/DG\RI0RXQW&DUPHO6FKRRO ERIE’S EASTSIDE CELEBRATING 52 YEARS OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION! 2SHQ+RXVH CATHOLIC SCHOOL 7KXUVGD\-DQ Holy Family School 30 814 -452-4720, 1153 East 9th Street Sunday, January 25, 2015 Opening Liturgy at noon followed by Open House 1:00-2:30 p.m. (*UDQGYLHZ%OYG For more Private tours available. Children can shadow at any time. (ULH3D information: “We are ALL pencils in the hand of GOD.” -Mother Teresa 814-885-8093 FOR MORE INFORMATION,CONTACT Join in our Community of Faith, Knowledge and Service. “We are a beacon of Pride on the East Side” 2/0&VFKRRORI¿FH FAITHLIFE SUPPLEMENT CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK JANUARY 18, 2015 3 Catholic schools on cutting edge: Robotics team wins Penn State competition, competes on national level BY MARY SOLBERG | FAITHLIFE After that win, the DuBois community got behind C3 Robot- DuBOIS—A robot named ics to help fund their trip to Fargo. Ferdinand, named after St. Fer- According to Korthaus, several dinand, the patron saint of engi- fundraisers were held, including neers, catapulted students of Du- participation in the school's gala Bois Central Catholic schools to a celebration and later hosting a spa- national competition last month. ghetti dinner. Fifth- through 12th-graders on “Many people and businesses DuBois Central’s robotics team stepped up to show their support attended a national robotics com- by being a sponsor, and we exceed- petition Dec. 5-8 in Fargo, N.D. ed the goal and actually are able Of 36 teams, the group placed to put some money aside for next second in the t-shirt competition. year’s program,” Korthaus said. “It was a pretty comprehensive The entire project, from the effort,” said Carol Korthaus, a start, was a community effort. teacher at DuBois Central Cath- Ruth and Brad Pifer, parents of olic and a member of the robot- a fi fth-grader and a 10th-grader, ics team, called Central Catholic volunteered to head up the robot- Cardinals, or C3 Robotics. ics program at the school. They The 15-member team earned sought the help of other DCC par- the right to participate in the na- ents, Dr. Craig Stringer of Atlas tional competition after it tied for Pressed Metals, and John Swalli- fi rst place overall at a local robot- gan, a Pennsylvania Department ics competition last September of Transportation engineer, along Contributed photo at Penn State DuBois. Regional with Central teachers and more schools were given material to parents. Members and advisers of the DuBois Central Catholic’s robotics pher Rhoades, Isaac Pifer and Mackenzie Park. In the middle row build a robot and perform such It helps that the powdered metal team pose for a photo following their fi rst-place tie at a robotics are: Sabrenna Starr, Sadie Peck, Trisha Gupta, Rebecca Pifer, Eliz- tasks as keeping an engineering business is a large part of the Du- competition at Penn State DuBois last September. The team traveled abeth Slifko, Emily Rhoades, Ruth Pifer, Carol Korthaus and Dr. notebook, writing a research pa- Bois economy. Engineers from in December to Fargo, N.D., for another contest among 36 other Craig Stringer. In the back row are: DCC’s Cardinal mascot, Zane per, planning an exhibit booth, various local companies gave their schools from throughout the country. Pictured in the front row are: Gaither, Zach Vandervort, Zach Logan, Pedar Garred and John M. designing a t-shirt, and preparing advice about the robotics project, John S. Swalligan, Brad Pifer, Isaac Gray, Alex Graeca, Christo- Swalligan Jr. a marketing presentation to sell helping the team get real-world ex- the robot. perience. Besides winning the overall “We could not have done this contest at Penn State, DuBois without them,” Korthaus said. Central Catholic also took fi rst “This brought our parents into it, Erie Catholic school celebrates 75th place in the t-shirt contest and our community into it, and the students, of course. This wasn’t captured the Spirit Award and FAITHLIFE staff Most Robust Robot honors. just a robotics project.” It’s a family affair at Blessed Sacrament School in Erie. Back in the 1950s, when Msgr. Daniel Magraw was just a boy, he visited and attended Mass with his sister, Joan, and her husband, Jim Jerge, who were members of the W. 26th Street parish. “I was always impressed with the largeness of the parish and the busyness that I saw here as a child,” says Msgr. Magraw, who is now pastor of Blessed Sacrament. Msgr. Magraw’s nephews graduated from Blessed Sacrament School, which was established 75 years ago this year. Even the school’s current principal, Melis- sa Novatnack, is a graduate, Class of 1989. Contributed photo “As a ‘Bulldog’…I still see the dedication of our staff. I see the Braden Nunes, a second-grader, enjoys the computer lab at Blessed Sacrament School, Erie. family aspect. We know our students. It’s awesome to see past the fi rst schools in the diocese to honored that night, including: classmates who are parents of Blessed offer a pre-school class. For many • Jennifer Bebko-Jauffret, Class our current students,” Novatnack Sacrament years, its Bixby Bowl, a fi eld lo- of 1986—Outstanding Alumni said. School cated just north of the church Award Her Bulldog heritage runs and gymnasium grounds, served • Marianne Fronzaglia Zimmer- deep. Family members have at- 75th Anniversary Gala as the hub of diocesan football man, Class of 1959—Outstand- tended the school back to 1959; Geiger Hall games. Currently, the fi eld is being Devotion and Dedication the last of her aunts and uncles Blessed Sacrament Parish ing used for gym classes, soccer Award graduated in 1980. 2510 Greengarden Road, Erie games, recess and practice. Principal the past two years, “It’s a whole campus here,” • Sister Mary Alice Reed, SSJ, Novatnack oversees a faculty of Jan. 31 from 7 to 10 p.m. Msgr. Magraw said. former principal—Outstanding 28 and a pre-K to 8th grade stu- Doors open at 6:30 p.m. He credited the parish Usher Legacy Award dent enrollment of 453. Tickets are $30 per person Society for its longtime support. • The Milhisler family—Out- Msgr. Magraw says students For info, call 814-455-1387 An active advancement com- standing Excellence in Team- over the years have benefi ted from mittee also has kept the school work Award a strong presence of priests and excellent leaders. Msgr. Robert strong. • The late Gary “Fergie” Kai- sisters. Many clergy who were on Barcio, who assisted at the parish On Jan. 31, Blessed Sacrament ser—Blessed Sacrament Hall the faculty of Gannon University and was the athletic director for is hosting its 75th Anniversary of Fame served as pastors or on team min- many years, is in his 90s and still Gala at the parish. istries at the parish. School prin- resides at the parish. Several people affi liated with • The late Gerry Fagan—Blessed cipals included highly educated, Blessed Sacrament was one of the church and school will be Sacrament Hall of Fame.

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All four wings of the educational complex will be open for tours and meet & greet with school personnel. The Central Difference: Learn Well. Live Well. Serve Well.

ZZZGXERLVFDWKROLFFRP 4 JANUARY 18, 2015 CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK FAITHLIFE SUPPLEMENT Faith ‘turbo-charges’ athletics YOUNG STUDENTS SPEAK OUT scholars through a curriculum based on the Gospel message of What do Catholic schools mean to you? Jesus Christ. “My Catholic education is impor- class. The second reason is when we learn The remarkable thing is that our coaches have a secular ven- tant because we get to go to Mass every about Jesus in religion class, I can learn COMMENTARY ue to impart life-long lessons that are rooted in values of the week and receive Holy Communion. life lessons about being nice and kind. The Christian faith. We cannot miss any of these opportunities and Once in a while, we have ‘Quiet Time last reason is for praying. I can use praying Aaron Straub our coaches and athletes must always be willing to step up and with Jesus’ in our classroom. During for my child and adult life. Every day we accept that responsibility. that time, we turn down the lights and learn more and more prayers.” play soft music. We can sit anywhere Aaron Straub is a teacher and the director of athletics at Elk County Francesca Messina, 5th grade in the room and talk to Jesus. We also St. Peter Cathedral School, Erie Catholic High School, St. Marys. He has overseen a successful athletic have religion class every day.” program over the past 30 years. Caitlyn Vollmer, 4th grade “I am a non-Catholic and going to Ss. St. Marys Catholic Elementary School, Cosmas and Damian School has strength- St. Marys ened my faith! I had always wondered Did you ever get behind the wheel of a sports car? Sports High school athletes what ‘being a Catholic’ was like. Since my cars are fun and exhilarating to drive. Now turbo-charge the soar at state level “I very much value my Catholic parents wanted me to have both a good engine and you’re driving an entirely new machine—an excit- education because it lets me follow the academic and religious education, they ing combination of power and speed that can take your breath footsteps of Christ. All of our lives we chose this school. I love to say the rosary away. Cathedral Preparatory learn more about Christ to better serve in religion class, and I enjoy talking with Obviously, with that energy comes a greater responsibility to • 2013-14 state showings—football (3rd), cross-country, him and I think that Catholic schools my classmates and teachers about God.” drive safely and respect the extra horsepower. golf, waterpolo, wrestling, swimming, lacrosse, baseball are a great place to do that. We get to Ty Caylor, 4th grade In a similar fashion, Catholic schools can turbo-charge their (3rd), hockey (3rd), and tennis learn about Christ’s childhood and do athletic programs…and, ultimately, the faith of participants. • 2014-15 soccer—state playoffs Ss. Cosmas and Damian School, fun activities like praying the novena Punxsutawney Sure, all schools can compete with us on the scoreboard, but • 2014-15 cross-country, four participate at state meet and having the opportunity to altar- they cannot match us when it comes to the message that our DuBois Central Catholic High School serve. Catholic schools help our friend- “I love going to St. Joseph’s Catholic coaches can deliver to student-athletes on a daily basis. The ship with God.” message is really a way of life that is rooted in the teachings of • 2013-14 air rifl e team—2nd place in state School because we get a wonderful edu- Jesus Christ and the values associated with our Catholic faith. • 2013-14 state showing—track Luca Franz, 4th grade cation. We get to attend Mass and learn The totally healthy athlete is one who is well-adjusted in St. John Paul II Elementary School, more about God and Jesus. We get to talk mind, body and soul. Some non-Catholic high school athletic Elk County Catholic High School Hermitage to Father Rich [Toohey] about questions programs may only touch on the physical and mental lessons • 2013-14 track/fi eld—state champion in both 800- and we have about God and the church. The taught through athletic competition. In Catholic schools, our 1,600-meter runs; showings in the 1,600-meter run and “I value my Catholic education be- thing I like the most about St. Joseph’s is coaches bring in the spiritual dimension that adds true balance in high jump cause I learn about our creator God that they care so much about you. If you for developing the complete athlete. • 2013-14 state showings—baseball, volleyball, golf, and and how he created everyone. I also need help with something, they go out of Building an athletic program on these three pillars allows for girls' cross-country value my Catholic education because I their way to help you.” a strong foundation that will remain viable through victory and • 2013-14 boys’ basketball, boys’ tennis, and competition learned how Jesus saved all of us from Lauren Walker, 5th grade defeat, good times and bad, and through moments of exhilara- cheerleading participate at state level sin and how I can be forgiven for my St. Joseph School, Warren tion and times of distress. sins. I like my Catholic education be- Mercyhurst Preparatory School cause we go to church with my friends “There are many reasons I value my Spirituality, or perhaps more accurately, faith-based inter- • 2013-14 girls’ tennis—state champions action, is what turbo-charges athletic programs in Catholic and receive Communion together. I can Catholic education. We get to talk about • 2014-15 girls’ tennis—state champions pray together with my friends before we God freely. We get to pray to God every schools. • 2014-15 girls’ tennis doubles—state champions By adding the spiritual component to physical training and eat lunch.” day. Everyone gets to learn about God. mental conditioning, we prepare athletes to be at their best. Villa Maria Academy Ryan Work, 5th grade We are all connected to God. We have a Just as our teachers bring a vibrant spiritual message into • 2013-14 state showings—cross-country, golf, baseball, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Erie great learning environment.” the classroom, our coaches are able—and expected—to bring and track/fi eld Alec Srock, 5th grade Catholic character education into the team room, weight room • 2014-15 golf—state champions “I value Catholic education for many DuBois Area Catholic Elementary School, and locker room, as well as to the athletic fi eld and gymnasium. • 2014-15 cross-country—state champions reasons. The fi rst reason is because DuBois Catholic schools prepare the next generation of leaders and • 2014-15 soccer—2nd place I love to learn about Jesus in religion

CATHOLIC SCHOOL OPEN HOUSES BRADFORD DuBois Central Catholic Our Lady of Peace School Villa Maria Elementary School KERSEY PUNXSUTAWNEY Middle School 2401 W. 38th St. 2551 W. Eighth St. St. Bernard Elementary/Middle 200 Central Christian Road 814-838-3548 814-838-5451 St. Boniface School Ss. Cosmas & Damian School School 814-371-3060 Jan. 25, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Jan. 25, 1-3 p.m. 359 Main St. 205 N. Chestnut St. 450 W. Washington St. March 11, 7 p.m. 814-885-8093 814-938-4224 814-368-5302 Our Lady’s Christian School FRANKLIN Call for private tours Jan. 25, noon-3 p.m. Call for private tours DuBois Central Catholic 606 Lowell Ave. High School 814-838-7676 St. Patrick School LUCINDA RIDGWAY CLARION 200 Central Christian Road Call for private tours 952 Buffalo St. 814-371-3060 814-432-8689 St. Joseph School St. Leo School Immaculate Conception School March 11, 7 p.m. St. Boniface School Call for private tours 72 Rectory Lane 125 Depot St. 729 E. Main St. 9363 Wattsburg Road 814-226-8018 814-772-9775 814-226-8433 ERIE 814-825-4238 GREENVILLE Jan. 26-28, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Call for information Jan. 25, 9:30-11 a.m. Jan. 25, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Blessed Sacrament School St. Michael School MEADVILLE ST. MARYS CLEARFIELD 2510 Greengarden Road St. George School 80 N. High St. 814-455-1387 1612 Bryant St. 724-588-7050 Seton Catholic School St. Marys Catholic St. Francis School Jan. 25, 10 a.m.-noon 814-864-4821 Jan. 25, 12:30-2 p.m. 385 Pine St. Elementary School 230 S. Second St. Jan. 25, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. 814-336-2320 114 Queens Road 814-765-2618 Cathedral Preparatory School HERMITAGE Call for private tours 814-834-4169 Spring, to be announced 225 W. 9th St. St. James School Jan. 28, 5-7:30 p.m. 814-453-7737 2602 Buffalo Road St. John Paul II NORTH EAST CORRY Oct. 18, noon-3 p.m. 814-899-3429 Elementary School St. Marys Catholic Middle School Feb. 8, 1-2:30 p.m. 2335 Highland Road St. Gregory School 600 Maurus St. St. Thomas School Holy Family School 724-342-2205 140 W. Main St. 814-834-2665 229 W. Washington St. 1153 E. 9th St. St. Luke School Jan. 25, noon-2 p.m. 814-725-4571 Jan. 28, 6-8 p.m. 814-665-7375 814-452-4720 425 E. 38th St. Jan. 25, 1-2:30 p.m. Undetermined Jan. 25, 1-2:30 p.m. 814-825-7105 Kennedy Catholic Middle School Elk County Catholic High School Jan. 25, noon-2 p.m. 2120 Shenango Valley Freeway OIL CITY 600 Maurus St. DuBOIS Mercyhurst Preparatory School 724-346-5531 814-834-7800 538 E. Grandview Blvd. St. Peter Cathedral School Jan. 25, 1-3:30 p.m. St. Stephen School Jan. 28, 6-8 p.m. DuBois Central Catholic 814-824-2323 (Admissions) 160 W. 11th St. 214 Reed St. Elementary School Nov. 1, noon-3 p.m. 814-452-4276 Kennedy Catholic High School 814-677-3035 WARREN 210 Central Christian Road (Call for information) Jan. 25, noon-3 p.m. 2120 Shenango Valley Freeway Call for private tours 814-371-2570 724-346-5531 St. Joseph School Jan. 25, noon-2 p.m. Our Lady of Mount Carmel School Villa Maria Academy Jan. 25, 1-3:30 p.m. Venango Catholic High School 608 Pennsylvania Ave., West 1531 E. Grandview Blvd. 2403 W. Eighth St. 1505 W. First St. 814-723-2030 814-825-2822 814-838-2061 814-677-3098 Feb. 1, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Jan. 29, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Oct. 25, noon-3 p.m. Call for private tours INSPIRING MINDS

With opportunities to excel in academics, explore the arts and participate in athletics. Seton has something to Open House offer every child. • Technology Embedded Curriculum Sunday, January 25, 2015 • Nurturing High Moral Standards • Rigorous Curriculum 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. • Musical Opportunities with Band, Orchestra, Choir, Musicals, and Plays *Register during Open House • Athletics - Track, Cross Country, Basketball, Volleyball & Cheerleading and receive $500 off tuition!** • Doors open at 7:30am with after school program until 5:30pm • Tuition Payment Plan

425 East 38th Street – Erie, Pennsylvania, 16504 – (814)825-7105 – www.slserie.org *New families only registering for Kindergarten through 8th grades 385 Pine Street, Meadville, PA • (814) 336-2320 www.seton-school.com Call Jamie Longo today to schedule your tour! All Faiths Welcome Preschool - 8th Grade