USCCB fall meeting Heritage preview of Hope U.S. bishops will Benedictine Sisters meet in Baltimore of Erie announce Nov. 13-16, $9 million capital page 2. campaign, page 3.

www.ErieRCD.org BI-WEEKLY NEWS BULLETIN OF THE DIOCESE OF ERIE November 12, 2006 Church Calendar Events of the local, American and universal church ‘An attitude of gratitude’ Feast days Stewardship Days focus “When you become a stewardship parish, you on giving of time, treasure, become about service to talent to God, church others. When you become about service to others, By Jason Koshinskie God’s gifts gratefully, who FaithLife editor cherishes them and uses them you begin to reach out in a responsible, accountable into the community. St. Albert the Great St. Elizabeth of Hungary If you have an attitude of way and shares them with gratitude, you have the prin- justice and love for all and When you reach out into Nov. 13 St. Francis Xavier Cabrini ciple of stewardship, said returns these gifts with an in- the community, that’s Nov. 15 St. Albert the Great Father Michael Jacques. crease to the Lord. Nov. 16 St. Margaret of Scotland, Father Jacques, SSE, pas- “To be a disciple of Christ, true evangelization. That St. Gertrude tor of St. Peter Claver Parish everyone needs to respond to evangelization is what Nov. 17 St. Elizabeth of Hungary in the Archdiocese of New the invitation of ‘Come, fol- Photo by Jason Koshinskie Nov. 18 St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Orleans, was the keynote low me,’” he said. “Christian brings commitment and Nov. 21 Presentation of the Blessed speaker for diocesan Stew- stewardship is not an option. ownership of a parish.” Father Michael Jacques, pastor of St. Peter Claver Virgin Mary ardship Days. The speaker This is an obligation that we Parish in the Archdiocese of New Orleans, was Nov. 22 St. Cecilia sessions, which included have as Christian people. To the keynote speaker for diocesan Stewardship Nov. 23 St. Clement I, St. Columban, both day and evening pro- underscore Christian stew- – Father Michael Jacques Days Oct. 24 and 25. Blessed Miguel Agustin Pro grams, were held Oct. 24 at ardship, it holds every indi- Nov. 24 St. Andrew Dung-Lac and his St. Tobias Parish in Brock- vidual accountable to God Catholics need a religious commitment of time, trea- talents, all your abilities, all companions way and Sacred Heart Parish for the personal care of God’s motivation to help keep sure and talent and a willing- your wealth—we must be ac- Nov. 25 St. Catherine of Alexandria in St. Marys and Oct. 25 at universe. At the time of judg- committed to stewardship, ness to trust God above all countable for all our gifts be- St. Mark Catholic Center in ment, God will have the right Father Jacques said, and things. cause everything is important Erie. The events were spon- to ask us, ‘What did you do that the concept of stew- “Christian stewardship in God’s world.” Confirmation sored by the Erie Diocese’s with my people and what ardship is a faith response therefore implies everything Stewardship begins with Stewardship Office. did you do with my work?’ we make to carry out the that you have—every gift, the gift of time, Father Jacques schedule Father Jacques began his Afterall, it’s God’s work, not mission of the church. Call- every talent, everything that said, and the realization that talk by saying a Christian ours.” ing stewardship a personal you possess—it all belongs St. Mark the Evangelist, Erie – steward is one who receives As disciples of Christ, involvement, he said it’s a to God,” he said. “All your See STEWARDSHIP, page 3 Saturday, Nov. 18 at 5 p.m. St. Callistus, Kane – Sunday, Nov. 19 at 10:30 a.m. Advocates of justice and truth Senior high youth rally – Nov. 19 at Kennedy Catholic High School At Red Mass, guidance The annual senior high school youth rally will be of Holy Spirit invoked held Sunday, Nov. 19 at Ken- nedy Catholic High School for law practitioners in Hermitage from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. By Jason Koshinskie brutality and violence. But This year’s rally is themed FaithLife editor priests and lawyers also see “We Believe!” and will loving people, kind people, feature entertaining and Judges and attorneys people who step forward to inspiring keynote presenters throughout the Erie Diocese adopt, people who will their from Apex Ministries, music gathered to pray for guidance assets to help the poor and ministry provided by Who from the Holy Spirit for all the marginalized, people who Do You Say I Am, prayer who seek justice on Oct. 30 show courage in overcoming and worship. at a Red Mass celebrated at personal problems and start Gannon University’s Mary, new lives.” Seat of Wisdom Chapel. In the evening’s Gospel, Papal Honors – 7 p.m., Nov. 20 The Red Mass, a historical attendees heard Jesus tell his at St. Peter Cathedral tradition within the Catholic disciples he would send the Cardinal Justin Rigali of Church, is celebrated annu- Holy Spirit to be with them Philadelphia will confer Pa- ally for judges, prosecutors, always (John 14:15-17). Photo by Jason Koshinskie pal Honors on 62 individuals attorneys, law school profes- In calling the Holy Spirit from the Erie Diocese during sors and students and gov- the paraclete, Bishop Traut- does for us,” Bishop Traut- of advocate, practitioner of out of society, the fundamen- a 7 p.m. prayer service and ernment officials. man said Jesus took the word man said. “A paraclete is law. We honor you who are tal moral values that come ceremony on Monday, Nov. The Mass was sponsored from the Jewish law court someone who defends and the paracletes, the helpers of from religious faith and form 20 at St. Peter Cathedral. by the Erie Diocese’s St. to help his disciples under- comforts. A paraclete is those in trouble. We honor the fabric of a just society dis- The honorees include 36 lay Thomas More Society. stand its meaning. The word someone who speaks out attorneys and judges, and appear,” Bishop Brandt said. people, 15 women religious In his homily, Bishop paraclete meant advocate, for a weak person, someone all who shape our society by “In a secularized society, free- and one priest. Trautman said priests and a person of good standing who comes to the side of a practice of law.” dom is nothing more than the “Papal Honors is a recog- Cardinal Justin lawyers have much in com- who had the confidence of person in need. A paraclete Bishop Lawrence Brandt license to pursue one’s own nition of the wonderful work Rigali mon. the court and would present a is a helper. That is precisely of Greensburg was the guest brand of individualism. In that is being done in the diocese to build up the “Every day we see the case in the best possible light. what the Holy Spirit is for of honor and speaker at a this environment of complete Lord’s kingdom,” Bishop Donald Trautman said. worst and the best in human The advocate would also give us. The Holy Spirit comes to reception after Mass held in relativism, tyrannies are eas- Honors to be bestowed include Protonotary Ap- beings,” he said. “For exam- personal support to the ac- our side and acts as our per- the Yehl Ballroom at Gan- ily created by a lack of moral ostolic Supernumerary, Knights and Ladies of St. ple, our court system handles cused. sonal advocate, our helper. non’s Waldron Center. His absolutes and stable values Gregory the Great, Knight and Ladies of Pope St. tragic cases of human weak- “This says what Jesus, Tonight we honor you who talk focused on secularism. which come from religious Sylvester, the Papal Cross and Benemerenti Medal. ness and sin, tragic cases of one with the Holy Spirit, have the God-given vocation “When God is bleached faith.” Thanksgiving Day – Nov. 23 CATHOLIC CAMPAIGN Pope Benedict amends protocol A thanksgiving prayer by Samuel F. Pugh FOR HUMAN DEVELOPMENT O God, when I have food, Break the cycle of poverty. Build community. for cleansing Communion vessels help me to remember the hungry; From staff and wire reports When I have work, A collection for the Catholic Campaign for Human De- help me to remember the jobless; velopment (CCHD) will be taken up in parishes through- WASHINGTON — At the When I have a home, out the Erie Diocese during Masses on the weekend of direction of Pope Benedict help me to remember those with no home at all; Nov. 18-19. XVI, extraordinary ministers When I am without pain, The Catholic Campaign for Human Development of Holy Communion will no help me to remember those who suffer, is a national program established by the United States longer be permitted to assist And remembering, Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) that works to in the purification of the sa- help me to destroy my complacency; eliminate poverty in the United States. cred vessels at Masses in the bestir my compassion, The CCHD’s mission is to raise funds that support or- United States. and be concerned enough to help; ganized groups of poor and low-income people working In an Oct. 23 letter, Bishop By word and deed, to develop economic strength and political power. William S. Skylstad, presi- those who cry out for what we take for granted, In 2005, the CCHD made a difference in the lives of dent of the U.S. Conference Amen. thousands of people in the Erie Diocese. Last year’s col- of Catholic Bishops, asked lection resulted in $180,000 of aid to break the cycle of his fellow bishops to inform poverty. Seventy-five percent of the collection goes toward all pastors of the change, national needs while 25 percent remains in the diocese. which was prompted by a Clergy letter from Cardinal Francis Through your gifting last year: Arinze, prefect of the Vati- CNS photo appointments • Erie DAWN provided transitional housing and work can Congregation for Divine A photo illustration shows a priest cleaning the Communion readiness programs for women with children in Erie. Worship and the Sacraments. vessels. The Most Rev. Donald W. Trautman, STD, SSL, • Prince of Peace Center in Farrell provided Bishop Donald Trautman Bishop of Erie, announces the following clergy ap- emergency financial services, a thrift shop, addressed the issue by send- the Eucharist and reflects the ministers of Holy Com- pointments: employment opportunities for seniors, food ing a letter to all priest of the practice of the early Chris- munion to help cleanse the distribution and transitional housing for women and Erie Diocese. tians, as well as reflecting Communion cups and plates Father Jerry S. Priscaro, appointed parochial ad- children. “It is important that we the words of Scripture: ‘Take when there were not enough ministrator of St. Gabriel the Archangel Parish, • Susquehanna Free Clinic ensured free medical keep in perspective the fact and eat … Take and drink,’” priests or deacons to do so. Port Allegany, and St. Mary Mission, Roulette. Ef- Bishop Trautmans said in the Bishop Skylstad, who heads services to people living in poverty in the Appalachian that this new liturgical direc- fective Oct. 30, 2006. tive does not change the clear letter. the Diocese of Spokane, Mountain region of northwest Pennsylvania. and certain teaching of the The U.S. bishops had Wash., said Cardinal Arinze Father Marc Stockton, appointed regional voca- • House of Healing provided housing and job training Constitution on the Sacred asked the Vatican to extend asked Pope Benedict about tion coordinator for Cameron, Clearfield, Elk and skills in Erie to women released from prison Liturgy that Holy Commu- an indult — or church per- the matter during a June 9 Jefferson counties for a term of three years ending throughout northwest Pennsylvania. nion under both kinds is a mission — in effect since audience, “and received a re- July 1, 2009. Effective Nov. 1, 2006. fuller sacramental sign of 2002 allowing extraordinary sponse in the negative.” U.S. bishops’ fall meeting preview By the Way... The Sisters of St. Joseph of North- Bishops to take up documents on west Pennsylvania will host their 18th annual Thanksgiving dinner at Mar- Communion, contraception, ketplace Grill, 319 State St. in Erie, on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 23. The sisters homosexuals & vote on new directory, and Marketplace Grill will offer a free turkey dinner with all the trimmings to norms for liturgical music anyone who is alone, in need or other- WASHINGTON (CNS) Committee on the Liturgy is wise would not celebrate this holiday. — When the U.S. bishops meet to propose a common reper- Congratulations to the Catholic com- this week, they will debate and toire of liturgical songs for all munity of Corry and St. Brigid Parish Jason Koshinskie vote on statements about Cath- Latin-rite Masses celebrated in in Meadville on milestone anniversaries olic teaching on marriage and the United States. this month. The Corry parishes of St. Thomas and St. Elizabeth family planning, who is worthy The directory is intended celebrated their 150th and 130th anniversaries, respectively, with a to receive Communion and the to serve “not so much as a list Mass Nov. 4 at St. Thomas. St. Brigid commemorated 125 years pastoral care of those who are of approved and unapproved with a Mass Nov. 5. Bishop Donald Trautman presided over both homosexually oriented. They songs as a process by which Photo by CNS liturgies. Look for photos and coverage of the events in an upcom- also will decide on a directory bishops might regulate the ing issue of FaithLife. on liturgical music. quality of the text of songs Prior to their fall meeting, U.S. bishops will gather in Baltimore Nov. 12 to celebrate Sunday evening Mass together at the newly Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Mercer has already be- Also on the agenda are the composed for use in the lit- gun planning its 50th anniversary in 2007. The planning team met texts of liturgical readings for urgy,” said Bishop Donald restored Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. for its first session Nov. 5 in the parish’s Gallagher Hall. Advent, proposals for restruc- Trautman, chairman of the Speaking of FaithLife, our Dec. 10 issue will be dedicated to bishops’ Committee on the turing and downsizing the U.S. coverage of Papal Honors, which are being conferred on Monday, Conference of Catholic Bishops Liturgy, in an introduction to If approved by two-thirds of norms would be sent to the the document. the bishops, the directory and Vatican for its assent. Nov. 20 at St. Peter Cathedral. The issue will include a story and and a funding proposal for re- photos of the event, bios and photos of the honorees and some search on the causes and con- background on the medals and honors themselves. text of clergy sexual abuse of minors. A charismatic Mass will be celebrated at St. Mark Parish in For the first time since 1989, Bishops’ meeting at a glance Emporium on Wed., Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. Father John Jacquel will be the USCCB will hold its fall gen- the celebrant. Prayers for healing will be said after Mass followed eral assembly outside Washing- Here is a quick glance at the main items the U.S. Catholic bishops will have on their agenda when by a social in the parish’s O’Connell Hall. ton. The bishops will meet Nov. they meet in Baltimore Nov. 13-16: U.S. veterans and their family members were invited to visit Du- 13-16 at the Baltimore Marriott • Concelebrated Mass Nov. 12 at the nation’s first Catholic cathedral, the Basilica of the National Bois Area Catholic Schools on Nov. 9 for a continental breakfast Waterfront Hotel overlooking Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, marking the 200th anniversary of its in the cafeteria followed by a special Mass to honor veterans. The that city’s Inner Harbor. dedication. school’s hallways were decorated in appreciation of the vets’ ser- To ensure that the hymns used • Statement on Married Love and the Gift of Life, reaffirming church teaching against contraception. vice to our country. at Mass are “doctrinally correct” • Statement on receiving the Eucharist worthily. For those interested in viewing a video of this year’s priesthood and based on Scripture and litur- • Statement on pastoral ministry to those with a homosexual inclination. ordination, it is now available online. Thanks to Herm Stork and gical texts, bishops will debate • Directory for Music and the Liturgy. VideoWorks of Erie, this high-quality video and sound lets viewers and vote on a new directory • Reorganization of committees of U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. have a front-row seat at the cathedral for this beautiful ceremony • 2007 USCCB budget. for music and the liturgy. Each as Fathers James Campbell, Joseph Campbell and Marc Solo- bishops’ conference around • Reduced 2008 diocesan assessments for USCCB operations. • Strategic plans and priorities for USCCB for 2008-2011. mon are ordained to the priesthood. the world was directed to draw The video clocks in at 1 hour, 57 minutes and requires a high- up such a directory within five • Revision of some Advent readings in the Lectionary for Mass. • Release of $335,000 for next phases of national study on causes and context of clergy sexual speed Internet connection. To view the video, click on the link on years after the 2001 Vatican in- the Erie Diocese’s homepage at www.ErieRCD.org. struction Liturgiam Authenticam abuse of minors. • Election of USCCB secretary and several committee chairmen-elect. (The Authentic Liturgy). Within Jason Koshinskie is editor of FaithLife. Contact him at JKoshinskie@ another three years, the bishops’ ErieRCD.org or 814.824.1171.

NEWS BRIEFS U.S. N.J. court says same-sex couples have Commission looks for balance in Conference seeks to mobilize U.S. same rights as married couples English liturgical translations Many States Prohibit Same-Sex Marriage VATICAN CITY — Work on a new English translation of the Mass Catholics against global poverty continues to seek a balance between a highly formal prayer language SAN FRANCISCO — In a world where half of the population is Wash. and preserving liturgical phrases that have become part of an English Mont. N.D. Maine speaker’s prayer tradition, said Australian Cardinal George Pell of poor and more than 1 billion people endure a poverty so harsh that Ore. Minn. Vt. Sydney. Cardinal Pell chairs the Vox Clara Commission, an interna- Wis. N.H. their very survival is at risk daily, the notion of eliminating extreme Idaho S.D. N.Y. Mass. Wyo. tional group of bishops who advise the Vatican on English liturgical poverty from the world in this lifetime may seem utopian. But Co- Mich. R.I. Conn. Neb. Iowa Pa. Nev. N.J. translations. Vox Clara met Oct. 23-26 at the Vatican to study transla- lumbia University professor Jeffrey D. Sachs, author of The End of Ohio Utah Ill. Ind. Del. tions developed by the International Commission on English in the Poverty, said with only a little more help from the United States and Calif. Colo. W. Va. Md. Kan. Va. other developed nations, the lives of the world’s poorest people could Mo. Ky. Liturgy. Describing many of the texts as “outstanding,” Vox Clara N.C. members also said they gave the Vatican Congregation for Divine be dramatically improved. America and other nations simply need to Ariz. Okla. Tenn. N.M. Ark. S.C. Worship and the Sacraments an “extensive commentary on certain live up to the development assistance promises they made six years Miss. Ala. Ga. problems” found in the translations. Cardinal Pell told Catholic News ago, he said in a keynote speech Oct. 27 at the Point 7 Now national Texas La.

Alaska Service Oct. 27: “It is important to be clear that they are small prob- conference on global poverty. The event was held Oct. 27-28 at St. Fla. Mary’s Cathedral in San Francisco. The Point 7 Now conference lems. They are not major problems at all.” title refers to goals adopted by the nations of the world in September Hawaii 2000 at the U.N. Millennium Summit, aimed at reducing extreme PEOPLE Constitutional amendment on same-sex marriage poverty and improving the lives of those living in the world’s poorest Vote on constitutional amendment to take place Nov. 2006 countries by the year 2015. Governments of most developed coun- Constitutional amendment passed June 2006 tries agreed to increase their aid to the poorest countries — pledging Source: CNS and Pew Research Center via stateline.org ©2006 CNS New Orleans composer pens Mass the equivalent of seven-tenths of 1 percent of their gross domestic TRENTON, N.J. — New Jersey’s highest court ruled Oct. 25 that product each year for development assistance. honoring Pope John Paul II same-sex couples are due the same rights and benefits as married WASHINGTON — Jay Weigel had never couples under the state constitution’s equal protection clause. But the composed a Mass before. But he has his first State Supreme Court, in its 4-3 decision, deferred to the “democratic Mass under his belt now: process” the question of whether those rights and benefits should be The Mass of Pope John Catholic giving rides crest of strong Paul II the Great. Nurturing the Mass from its uptick in charitable donations guaranteed by some form of marriage, a civil union like what is in beginning to the present was an arduous jour- effect in Vermont or some other type of arrangement. Massachusetts ney, complicated by the fact that Weigel lives Rise in Giving currently is the only U.S. state to allow same-sex marriages. Catholic in New Orleans and was buffeted by Hurricane leaders across the country have been active in efforts to limit mar- Katrina. “The CD was going to get released a The Chronicle of Philanthropy notes a 13 percent overall increase in riage to the traditional union of one man and one woman. Nineteen donations to the nation’s largest philanthropic organizations. states have adopted constitutional amendments banning same-sex year ago. ... And essentially, the recording ex- isted, but a lot of work remained putting on percent of marriage and another nine were considering such a ban this year. CNS photo Select major 2005 donations increase from the final touches,” he said. “Frankly, when the Catholic charities in millions previous year hurricane hit, we were in the middle of that. Composer WORLD Catholic Charities USA $646.19 11.2 ... I wasn’t able to get on it (again) until Easter Jay Weigel Catholic Relief Services $342.60 146 time,” said Weigel, who was commissioned by the St. Louis Cathe- dral in New Orleans to compose the Mass. The Mass of Pope John Paul Catholic Medical Mission Board $193.73 60 Bishops from Americas discuss II the Great, which was released Oct. 17, is available on CD online Covenant House $97.05 27.9 threats to life, U.S. border fence at: www.amazon.com and www.papalmusic.com, or by phone at 1.800.513.8743. It costs $14.95 plus shipping and handling. Christian Appalachian Project $91.21 8.2 Approved Border Fence Girls and Boys Town $82.18 4.5 California Source: The Chronicle of Philanthropy, Oct. 26 edition ©2006 CNS Arizona Oklahoma Calexico New Mexico WASHINGTON — The concept of “donor fatigue” did not seem to San San Luis Ysidro afflict the United States’ largest endowments, nonprofits and chari- Nogales table groups in 2005, with Catholic organizations seemingly benefit- El Paso Texas ing from increased giving as much as most other major philanthropic Douglas Rio groups, according to a survey conducted by The Chronicle of Philan- Grande . In its annual study of the 400 largest philanthropic organi- thropy MEXICO Del Rio zations, the average increase in private donations was 13.2 percent, Eagle Pass but some Catholic organizations eclipsed even that strong showing. authorized fence Results of the study were published in the Chronicle’s Oct. 26 issue. border ports Laredo heavily crossed ports Catholic Relief Services in Baltimore registered a whopping 146.3 Brownsville most illegal crossings 0 100 miles percent jump in donations, ranking 32nd out of the top 100 organi- Hidalgo zations with $342.6 million in contributions. The Catholic Medical ©2006 CNS Mission Board, based in New York City, took in $196.74 million in donations, an increase of 60.4 percent. It was ranked 73rd. The other VATICAN CITY — The breakdown of families and threats to hu- Catholic group in the top 100 — Catholic Charities USA, based in man life from abortion to the death penalty are challenges Catholics Alexandria, Va. — ranked 14th with support amounting to $646.19 in the Americas must confront, said a group of bishops meeting at million. Its contributions rose 11.2 percent. the Vatican. The council of bishops charged with monitoring and promoting follow-up to the 1997 Synod of Bishops for America and to Pope John Paul II’s 1999 post-synodal document, The Church in America, met at the Vatican in early October. In addition to de- nouncing threats to human life, council members — from North FaithLife Member of the Catholic Press Association. and South America as well as from the Vatican — also offered a The official news bulletin of the Published bi-weekly. Owned and operated harsh assessment of plans to construct a fence along the U.S.-Mexi- Catholic Diocese of Erie by the Bishop of Erie. Subscription $10/year. can border. On Oct. 23, Congress sent the bill authorizing construc- Volume 2, Issue 22 For more information, call (814) 824-1161. tion of 700 miles of fencing to President George W. Bush, who General Information: (814) 824-1160 The Office of Communications has been was scheduled to sign the provision Oct. 26. “The wall along the Fax: (814) 824-1170 serving Catholics in the Diocese of Erie United States-Mexico border will not resolve the problem of the mi- since 1874. Offices are located at E-Mail: [email protected] St. Mark Catholic Center gratory flux between the two countries and will not help establish a Editorial: (814) 824-1171 429 East Grandview Blvd., Erie, Pa. coordinated and humanitarian migration policy,” the bishops said. Advertising: (814) 824-1168 Periodical postage paid at Erie, Pa.

Postmaster: Send address changes to FaithLife at St. Mark Catholic Center. Heritage of Hope Capital Campaign The following is an outline of goals for the Erie Benedictine Heritage Sisters’ $9 million Heritage of Hope Capital Campaign: Renovation of monastery properties ($5.5 million) • Repair roof and replace windows • Enlarge monastery residential rooms and install shared of bathrooms Hope • Renovate front entrance for accessibility • Monastery assisted living renovation with air conditioning, To learn more about the Heritage a call-bell system and wider bedroom doors of Hope capital campaign or to • Renovate ministry buildings and sisters’ residences Benedictine Sisters of make a donation, contact the Benedictine Sisters of Erie at: Chapel renovation ($1.5 million) • Interior renovation includes leveling of floor, upgrading Erie launch $9 million Mount St. Benedict Monastery HVAC and electrical systems and reconfiguring space in 6101 East Lake Road the monastic choir tradition capital campaign Erie, PA 16511-1599 • Replace chapel roof and ceiling 814.899.0614 Ext. 2281 • Create a Blessed Sacrament chapel for contemplative www.ErieBenedictines.org. ers, who came to Erie 150 years prayer and reflection By Jason Koshinskie • Incorporate a significant water (baptismal) symbol FaithLife editor ago, we the community of sis- ters, want to look to the future Sister Christine Vladimiroff, OSB, prioress Establishing a ministry fund ($2 million) It was not a coincidence that and see not problems but limit- the $9 million goal. When Sister damaged by Hurricane Rita. less possibilities,” Sister Chris- Christine shared with gathered Renovations began Aug. 1 • Create a fund to support current and future ministry the Benedictine Sisters of Erie • Provide seed money for new ministry development chose to announce the public tine said. “We want to leave a sisters, oblates and friends that and are expected to be complet- phase of their Heritage of Hope legacy—a heritage of hope—to the community already has $4 ed in 10 months. Rededication Capital Campaign on the feast the women who come after us, million of pledges in the bank, and blessing of the chapel is Emmaus Ministries Inc., which nity. of All Saints. to the Erie community and espe- they responded with a round of scheduled for July 11, the feast includes Emmaus Soup Kitchen “Every time they came into “We need our Benedictine cially to the poor with whom we applause. of St. Benedict. In the mean- and Sister Gus’ Kids Café; St. the office and said, ‘Mayor, we community that’s in heaven to share life.” The capital campaign is the time, liturgies and prayer ser- Benedict Child Development have a project,’ I was on board bless us and to bless this effort of In outlining the goals of the first by the religious community vices will be held in the garden Center; and Benetwood Apart- immediately,” said Savocchio, the capital campaign,” said Sis- campaign, Sister Christine said since Mount St. Benedict was room, a multi-purpose space on ments. who along with former Erie ter Christine Vladimiroff, OSB, the funds have been earmarked built 36 years ago. By renovating the monastery’s ground level. “It is through the generos- County Executive Judy Lynch, prioress of the Benedictine Sis- for the renovation of monas- the chapel and monastery prop- By establishing a ministry ity of others that we are able to will serve as honorary co-chair ters of Erie. tery properties, chapel renova- erties, Sister Christine said the fund, Sister Christine noted that continue the kind of work that of the campaign. “Nobody did The sisters held a news confer- tion and establishing a ministry community will be able to con- the sisters will have the flex- we have,” Sister Christine said. more with the funds they had ence Nov. 1 at Mount St. Bene- fund. tinue its ministry with renewed ibility to address current needs “We look forward to the future than this order in carrying out dict Monastery to announce The Benedictine sisters are energy while providing a spiritual in society while providing seed with great hope. Throughout their projects.” their goal of reaching $9 million well on their way toward achiev- center for more than 250 oblates, money for new ministries in the our history, Erie Benedictines Sitting on the campaign’s during the capital campaign, ing the $9 million goal. The qui- alumnae friends and visitors. years to come. Benedictine min- have counted on the friendship leadership committee are Jo which will run through 2008, to et phase of the campaign, which Earlier this year, with plans for istries help serve the poor and and support of our benefactors. Clarke; Rick and Sue Clayton; help meet the physical and spiri- started in 2005, has already net- the chapel renovation in place, marginalized, many of whom We have done nothing alone. Sister Dane Cook, OSB; Steve tual needs of the community. ted $5.6 million in pledged dona- the Benedictine Sisters donated come from the inner-city of Erie. You have been with us.” and Kathy Danch; Sister Miriam “In the spirit of our foremoth- tions, representing 63 percent of its fixtures, including pews, lights The ministries are: St. Benedict Former Erie mayor Joyce Mashank, OSB; Marco and Betsy and ceiling fans, to Our Lady Education Center; St. Benedict Savocchio said she saw firsthand Monsalve; Will and Ann O’Neil; Star of the Sea Parish in Cam- Community Center; the Inner- and up close the work the sisters Sister Mary Jane Vergotz, OSB; People in the News eron, La., which was severely City Neighborhood Art House; have done in the Erie commu- and Sister Christine Vladimiroff. Catholic Charities names Emma Stewardship Days: Giving of time, treasure, talent to God, church Lee McCloskey director of STEWARDSHIP from page 1 none of us owns our own time. blocks from the French Quarter, said. “When you become about stewardship in a small parish development and marketing In the Catholic Church, he said has become the second-largest service to others, you begin to and shared the story of their Catholic Charities of the Diocese of stewardship means the gift of contributing parish out of 150 reach out into the community. home parish of St. Andrew in Erie welcomed Emma Lee McCloskey as service and giving because we parishes in the archdiocese. Main- When you reach out into the Independence, Kansas. its new director of development and mar- want to be of service to God. taining its own school of more community, that’s true evange- “When we put the program keting on Oct. 17. “Our giving is an opportunity than 300 students, 75 percent of lization. That evangelization is together, we wanted to inspire “What I’m really looking forward to is to thank God,” he said. “How students receive some type of fi- what brings commitment and people and also give them bringing forward the very long-term and much do you give? You give nancial aid. ownership of a parish.” some practical ideas on how stellar work that Catholic Charities has until it feels good. Stewardship “I find that it’s my job to find Today, less than 40 percent of to implement stewardship in done in health care and social and pastoral comes from your heart. Steward- that financial aid because I be- his parishioners have returned their parishes,” said Joseph ministries,” McCloskey said. ship allows us to have an attitude lieve that Catholic education is to the community. Ninety per- Hoag, director of the diocesan Her duties include overseeing grant writ- Emma Lee of gratitude.” the foremost education process cent have lost their homes, most Stewardship Office, “and we ing and planned giving for Catholic Chari- McCloskey He talked about how his par- of our lives,” Father Jacques said. of whom are currently living in did that. I couldn’t have been ties, as well as its special events and publications. ish, which has become the larg- “If the children from the parish a one- or two-bedroom trailer more pleased with how it was McCloskey worked for Stairways Behavioral Health in Erie est African-American parish aren’t in the school, I ask why. If with as many as 19 other family received.” for 14 years, serving as director of development and consultant. in Louisiana, has developed a it’s because of money, then come members. But that hasn’t damp- All sessions of Stewardship She has also served as the director of planned giving for Villa model of stewardship during his on in, because I know the God ened their gratitude. The Sun- Days were videotaped and are Maria Center, Villa Maria Academy and Villa Maria Elementary tenure as pastor. When he came I believe in makes a way some- day collection prior to Father available through the diocesan School. to St. Peter Claver in 1984, there how.” Jacques’ visit was $17,000. Media Resources Library at St. She is a member of Our Lady of Mercy Parish in Harbor- were 800 registered families with In looking at the neighbor- “They have come to under- Mark Catholic Center. creek. an average Sunday collection of hood, he found it crumbling by stand that the Eucharist is the $1,200. The Sunday before Hur- the hour. The parish then started centering source of their lives,” A free-will offering taken up ricane Katrina there were 2,500 its own community development he said. “Doesn’t Eucharist during the Stewardship Days Sister Ann Amen, SSJ, releases registered families and the col- corporation. They turned a block mean ‘to give thanks?’ We have sessions raised more than lection was $21,000. of old buildings into housing for to give thanks to God for what $1,600, which has been sent book about her ministry, travels “How did that happen? Well, low-income seniors and a medi- he’s given us.” to St. Peter Claver Parish in Sister Ann Amen, SSJ, recently re- stewardship for us has taken 22 cal clinic. In other sessions, Joe Ca- New Orleans. If you would like leased a book she wrote about her years years, so chill out,” he said. “It Before Katrina, the parish had vanaugh, an associate partner to make an offering, send your in ministry and travels throughout the takes time. God works in his 700 people involved in 110 minis- with The Gallup Organization’s donation to: world. Beyond My Dreams takes readers time, not our time. But he ex- tries. Faith Practice, explained how through more than 18 countries on three to create an environment for St. Peter Claver Parish pects us to use all that we have.” “When you become a steward- 1923 St. Philip St. continents where she has lived, traveled The church, located in the ship parish, you become about engaging parishioners. Vern New Orleans, LA 70116 and served in various ministries. heart of New Orleans and 12 service to others,” Father Jacques and Teresa Strecker spoke about Highlights of the book include a trip in Germany to see Theresa Neumann, a woman with stigmata, marks resembling the wounds on the crucified body of Christ. It was an experience Emergency contraception and religious freedom Sister Ann claims changed her life and led to her decision to en- By Amy L. Beisel explains However, if medical tests sug- conscience. The bill may be con- ter religious life. Another highlight was meeting Mother Teresa Pennsylvania Catholic Conference that a gest that conception may sidered before the end of the leg- of Calcutta in Australia. She shares with readers her experience woman have occurred, the Catholic islative session. of seeing Pope Paul VI in Rome and Pope John Paul II in Syd- In Harrisburg, a legislative who has Bishops of Pennsylvania indi- There are many public policy ney. mandate for hospitals to provide been raped cate that no drug should be pro- issues like this one which are Sister Ann retired from ministry in higher education and so- emergency contraception (EC) to should be vided by a Catholic facility that important to Catholics. Catholic cial welfare in 2000 at the age of 82. Her new book, Beyond My victims of sexual assault is being able to de- will interfere with the implanta- voters are encouraged to educate Dreams, is available for $15 by contacting the Sisters of St. Joseph considered. This drug treatment fend her- tion of a newly conceived hu- themselves about these concerns. at 814.836.4100. is confusing. How does it work? self from man life. The loss of an innocent The Pennsylvania Catholic Con- Where does the Catholic Church a potential Amy L. Beisel human life is simply not morally ference (PCC) is the public af- stand? Why should citizens care? concep- defensible. fairs agency of Pennsylvania’s EC is a high dose of birth tion and receive treatments to An amendment to the EC Bishops. To learn more, log on to control. It prevents pregnancy by suppress ovulation and prevent legislation provides a religious www.pacatholic.org. delaying ovulation, preventing fertilization. Because sexual as- exemption which would give it’s more than fertilization, or preventing a fer- sault is an act of unjust aggres- freedom to religious health care Amy L. Beisel, APR, is communi- tilized egg from implantation if sion, Pennsylvania’s Catholic providers to provide appropriate cations director of the Pennsylvania just a job. taken within a few hours of inter- hospitals may administer emer- compassionate care. It would Catholic Conference – the public af- course. Catholic teaching holds gency contraception when tests avoid a government require- fairs arm of Pennsylvania’s Catholic that life begins at conception, confirm that conception has not ment which would otherwise bishops and the Catholic dioceses of so if a fertilized egg is prevented likely occurred. trample religious freedom and Pennsylvania. from implanting in the womb, it is considered an abortion – the LEARN Lock Haven Catholic School (grades K-6) in Lock Haven, PA termination of a human life. (Altoona-Johnstown Diocese) is seeking a gifted, dynamic leader No community is untouched ROSARY MAKING for the Principal position. This position will begin with the 2007-08 Call for catalog & introductory academic term. Salary is negotiable. Each candidate should be a practicing by the violence of rape. The offer or visit Catholic; be committed to Catholic education; have elementary school church, through Catholic hospi- www.rosaryparts.com teaching experience; and have an Instructional II certification. Each tals, has for years given care and candidate should also have or be willing to obtain a Master’s Degree, a treatment to rape victims. Each principal administration certificate and a Master Catchiest certificate. victim is provided compassionate Resumes will be accepted until November 30, 2006 and should be sent to: care and emotional support. Sister Mark Plescher, CSA Catholic hospitals are commit- LEWIS & COMPANY Diocesan Education Office day P.O. Box 268-K, 126A Logan Blvd. to ! ted to treating victims with that Hollidaysburg, PA 16648 ly same compassion, sensitivity Troy, NY 12181 email: [email protected] p 800-342-2400 Ap and respect. Catholic teaching Erie Homes for Tour to the Holy Land We sponsor BUS TOURS to Pittsburgh, Cleveland, North Tonawanda and Buffalo to hear The Mighty Wurlitzers Children & Adults Walk in the Footsteps of Jesus! $40 for members, $45 for non-members extraordinary people, extraordinary programs February 8 - 18, 2007 assisting people with disabilities in Erie, Crawford Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Nazareth, Price includes show ticket, and Venango counties to live rich and fulfilling lives. Tabor, Dead Sea, Cana, Galilee and round trip bus. phone 814/454-1534 and begin a For a packet of detailed information: Erie Area Theatre Organ Society rewarding new career at EHCA 800-242-0728 or fax 724-543-2938 Call Joe Luckey at 871-7276 e-mail: www.ehca.org [email protected] Leave your number for a return call. Parish correspondents E-mail your parish news ERIE Diocese FaithLife encourages all parishes, Many parish correspondents have found the missions, schools and groups to choose a e-mail to be a quick and easy way to send correspondent who regularly submits news news to FaithLife. items to Around the Erie Diocese. [email protected]

St. Joseph School float takes prizes in parades LUCINDA — The students, families, and faculty of St. Jo- seph School in Lucinda teamed up to create a float for the Au- tumn Leaf Festival Parades in Clarion. The float won second place in the ALF Kiddie Parade on Oct. 3 and first place in the community division at the main ALF Parade on Oct. 7. Around Around

Science students in action at DCC DUBOIS — DuBois Central Catholic Biology I students (left Sisters of Mercy welcome new associates to right) Nicolis Murray, Dan Sawey and Sean Reilly are add- ERIE — The Sisters of ing the final touches to their re- Mercy accepted five women as spective ‘cellular confections’ as associates to their ministry dur- they familiarize themselves with ing a covenant ceremony at the the parts of a cell. According motherhouse Oct. 1. Signing to science chairperson Donna a formal covenant were Maria Chollock, this activity provides Grazioli, Erin Landini, Kathy for a more ‘palatable way’ to re- Pirrello, Janet Reiser and Mary member the scientific terms. Lou Wieczorek, all of Erie. The associates program is made up of Christian men and women who willingly make a commitment to the Sisters of Mercy to share in the life of the Mercy Community in its mission, many times to those people the sisters may not have Sacred Heart School, Erie the opportunity to reach. Cur- New associates (left to right) Janet Reiser, Mary Lou Wieczorek rently there are 43 associates in ERIE — Sacred Heart School and Erin Landini. in Erie held a World Series cere- the Mercy Regional Community al drive. Nearly 100 boxes of ce- of Erie. real were donated to the Sacred Heart Food Pantry. Each student who brought in a box of cereal Statue of BVM found at St. Luke, Youngsville was permitted to wear a baseball YOUNGSVILLE — A statue cap on Oct. 25. of the Blessed Virgin Mary has Father John Detisch led been resurrected from the base- Sacred Heart students in their ment stairwell of St. Luke Parish kickoff of the school’s Wellness in Youngsville. After being lost Walk Across Pennsylvania. On for years, the statue has been the first day, the student body cleaned and now stands out in accumulated enough miles to front of the church greeting visi- make it to the statue of George tors. Washington in Waterford. Stu- Father John Neff, parochial dents have already “walked” to administrator at St. Luke, said Edinboro. parishioners are happy to see the statue out of the stairwell and on the church’s front porch. “We have had a nice response to the Knights of Columbus sponsor Blue Mass in Tidioute statue and its placement,” Father TIDIOUTE — The Knights Neff said. “One of the comments was that it looks like the Blessed her son’s house.” Eventually the illuminate the statue during the of Columbus Council No. 9304 evening. from St. John Parish in Tidioute Mother is welcoming people to parish plans to get a spotlight to sponsored its third annual Blue Mass on Oct. 15. The Mass, cel- ebrated by St. John pastor Father Thomas Aleksa, honored local Immaculate Conception hosts Grandparents Day celebration police officers, firefighters, game and fish protectors, medical per- CLARION — Students in sonnel and others who are on Deb Marchand’s second grade call in emergencies. Afterward, class at Immaculate Conception a brunch was provided by the School in Clarion recently hosted knights for the Blue Mass honor- a Grandparents Day celebration. ees and their families. As part of the day’s festivities, students performed several mu- sical numbers for their honored guests. Pictured are students Bringing the Blue Mass gifts up to the altar are Pennsylvania State singing and playing musical in- Trooper Raymond Jones and Tidioute Fire Department member struments led by music teacher Linda Scott. Bonnie Champion.

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