Confessions Feast Days at the MALL Steve & Barry’S

‘Christ made Abortion rate 1.31 decline himself poor Pro-life officials for you’ praise new 1.21 Pope Benedict numbers, page 2. XVI’s message for Lent, page 2. 2000 2005

www.ErieRCD.org BI-WEEKLY NEWS BULLETIN OF THE DIOCESE OF ERIE February 10, 2008 Church Calendar Events of the local, American and universal church Confessions Feast days at the MALL Steve & Barry’s

St. Scholastica Our Lady of Lourdes Diocese opens chapel Feb. 10 St. Scholastica Feb. 11 Our Lady of Lourdes at Millcreek Mall Feb. 14 St. Cyril and St. Methodius By Jason Koshinskie Feb. 21 St. Peter Damian FaithLife editor You are here: Roman Catholic Chapel thatthat formerly housed American Dental into a cha- Feb. 22 The Chair of St. Peter ERIE — After Millcreek Mall shoppers browse pel complete c with a welcoming area, confessionals, Feb. 23 St. Polycarp the new springtime fashions at Bon Ton and sip on a a tabernacle and a reading room. cup of Starbucks coffee, they can stop by the mall’s it may also be people’s schedules that we’re not there The chapel, located just outside the concourse en- newest store and go to confession. when they are there.” trance to Bon Ton, one of the mall’s anchor stores, World Day of the Sick – Feb. 11 The Erie Diocese became the Erie mall’s newest Confession at the mall has been an idea of Bishop occupies 2,000 of the more than 2.2 million square tenant, opening a chapel on Feb. 6—Ash Wednes- Trautman’s for some time. But hearing them there feet of retail space at Millcreek Mall complex. day and the beginning of Lent—primarily for hear- during the penitential season of Lent—a time of Tim Jares, Millcreek Mall property manager, said ing confessions. prayer, good works and returning to the Lord, gave chapels have opened at other malls and properties “People often have different schedules than what him the impetus to commit to the idea, he said. owned by the Cafaro Company, which operates the the church has,” said Bishop Donald Trautman. “My idea is to go to where the people are and see mall, but not in Millcreek Mall until now. “We traditionally have had confessions Saturday if we can, by presenting this opportunity, bring them “In our other shopping centers we’ve done it be- afternoon and Saturday evening at parishes. That back to the sacrament and meet them where they fore,” Jares said. “It’s all timing when it comes to doesn’t seem to be working. There are many reasons are,” he said. for that: secularism in our culture, denial of sin. But The diocese has transformed the empty storefront See CONFESSIONS, page 4

Receiving Christ in the Eucharist, Catholics groups from several par- should in turn give their lives for others, especially ishes. People for Life those who are sick and suffering, Pope Benedict sent two buses, includ- XVI said. In his message for the Feb. 11 celebration ing more than 50 7th of World Day of the Sick, the pope asked Catho- and 8th graders from St. lics to consider “the close connection that exists George School in Erie. between the mystery of the Eucharist, the role of Other known partici- Mary in the plan of salvation and the reality of hu- marks pants as of press time man pain and suffering.” included buses from World Sick Day is marked each year on the feast Crawford County Citi- of Our Lady of Lourdes; 2008 marks the 150th an- 35th anniversary zens for Life, Hermitage, niversary of the Marian apparitions in the grotto in St. Marys, Titusville and Lourdes, France. of Roe v. Wade DuBois. In his message, Pope Benedict said, “Mary is the “It was very power- model of total abandonment to the will of God” Young people add energy, ful. There’s always some and, in following her example, Christians learn to level of it that pulls you place their entire existence in God’s hands, includ- enthusiasm to crowd in,” Landini-Grogan ing their “joys and sorrows, hopes and disappoint- said. “A few years ago it ments in an awareness that trials, pain and suffering From staff and wire reports was very spiritual. You enrich the meaning of our pilgrimage on earth.” could feel that collec- Mary is near to all who suffer, standing alongside WASHINGTON — Hundreds of young peo- tive prayer. This year it them as she stood alongside her son as he suffered, ple and adults from the Erie Diocese joined with was very energizing with the pope said. throngs of school and parish groups throughout young people learning Several parishes participated in the “Youth Stand 4 Life” diocesan bus the United States in Washington, D.C. Jan. 22 for about the march and the trip to the march. Pictured are members of this year’s trip, which included the 35th annual March for Life. long-term consequences 34 adults and students from St. Lawrence, Albion; St. Joseph/Bread of Tens of thousands of people from around the of Roe vs. Wade.” Life, Erie; St. Elizabeth and St. Thomas, Corry; and St. Stephen, Oil City. country gathered on the National Mall before A sea of color met the Another contingent of 11 students from Gannon University’s Students for marching up Capitol Hill to the Supreme Court. eye at the Verizon Cen- Life also participated in the march. This year’s march was held on the 35th anniver- ter sports arena in Wash- sary of the Supreme Court’s 1973 Roe v. Wade ington Jan. 22 as more than 20,000 young people Gray introduced a long program of politicians, decision which legalized abortion in the U.S. from around the country filled all the seats for the clergy and other activists who helped warm up a “It was an interesting group. They said it was annual Rally for Life and Youth Mass, celebrated crowd shivering in freezing temperatures and light one of the higher turnouts they’ve had in a few by Washington Archbishop Donald W. Wuerl. drizzle. More than two dozen cardinals, archbish- years,” said Erin Landini-Grogan, director of In addition to the traditional rally and Mass, ops and bishops stepped onto the stage. Catholic Charities’ Parish Social Ministry/Re- youths attending this year received a special sur- Among the speakers, Rep. Christopher Smith, spect Life Office for the Erie Diocese, who went prise: a personal message from Pope Benedict XVI, R-N.J., headed a long string of politicians who Lenten calendar to Washington. “What was so interesting is that I read by the apostolic nuncio to the United States, took to the microphone to make sure participants would say half of the participants were from the Archbishop Pietro Sambi. saw the fight against abortion in political terms. For a printable Lenten calendar, visit the Erie high school and college levels. That to me was fas- In the message, the pope expressed his grati- He warned that “America’s liberal elites” were Diocese’s official Web site at www.ErieRCD. cinating.” tude for the youths’ commitment to life and said “empathy-deficient” when it comes to the unborn, org. Sponsored by Catholic Charities’ Office Gannon University, Mercyhurst College and he looked forward to his visit to the United States. turning around a phrase about Americans made of Parish Social Ministry/Respect Life, the cal- Cathedral Prep High School students were a part He will be in Washington April 15-17 and in New by Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., in remarks on the endar provides a Scripture verse, reflection and of the younger contingent of the rally. The dio- York April 18-20. activity suggestion for each day of Lent. cese’s annual “Youth Stand 4 Life” trip included On the stage, March for Life organizer Nellie See MARCH, page 4

‘Of One Heart and Mind’ Pro-Life Prayer Does this situation sound for a variety of projects includ- Breakfast familiar? You live month-to- ing roofs, parking lots, furnac- month having just enough es, painting and carpeting. The official Lenten regulations from Bishop money to cover ongoing ex- “The fact that parishes re- Donald Trautman are available on the Web penses. Then one day a leak ceive some of the funds raised site, as well. develops in your older roof through the CSA is stressed and you wonder how you’re each year,” says Joseph Hoag, going to pay for repairs, let director of Stewardship and alone a new roof. Or the fur- Annual Appeals for the dio- Word of God nace unexpectedly dies, or the cese, “but it is important to carpet you’ve had for 15 years show what this really means. Msgr. Richard Sullivan, Adults who say “all” or “most” of the looks even worse and yet you It means additional income to pastor of St. Andrew in following represent the word of God. continue to say, “We’ll re- many parishes to cover proj- Erie, says grace at the OLD TESTAMENT place it next year.” ects that could not be easily 30th annual Pro-Life 55% At one time or another, costs in a parish comes from done without these funds.” Prayer Breakfast. 74% these things happen. And a the annual Catholic Services Every parish will plan to do “Jesus said if you want to move mountains, it’s prayer, NEW TESTAMENT parish is not too different from Appeal. This appeal helps the something with funds raised 54% a home. Roofs need fixing Diocesan Church of Erie with through the CSA. Each parish penance and fasting,” Janet Folger, president of Faith2Ac- 73% and furnaces and carpeting its month-to-month expenses will communicate those plans tion, said at the 30th annual Pro-Life Prayer Breakfast sponsored by People for Life in Erie. TORAH (Jewish texts) need replacing. The challenge which include providing ongo- to those in the parish. is to find the money to do it. ing services and ministries to “The CSA does truly ben- Her compelling and energetic keynote address was pre- 26% sented to a sell-out crowd at the Avalon Hotel on Feb. 2. 28% The offertory of the parish is thousands. efit so much throughout the enough to cover the monthly The recent special issue of Diocese of Erie,” says Hoag. Most Rev. Donald Trautman, bishop of Erie, and Erin QURAN (Muslim texts) Catholics Protestants expenses. But just like your Faith magazine detailed some “Please be generous in your Landini-Grogan, director of the Respect Life Office for 8% the Erie Diocese, also shared remarks at the gathering. 8% home budget, pastors often of them. But once a parish support of the 2008 CSA.” wonder how to pay for these reaches its diocesan goal, ev- ”This morning we are here for those who have no birth- Online poll conducted among 2,455 adults within the U.S. Nov. 7-13. days,” Bishop Trautman said. “Let us not be complacent. The sample is based on those who agreed to participate in the Harris Interactive panel. unexpected expenses. ery dollar raised over goal can Look for your parish’s project No estimates of theoretical sampling error can be calculated. In many cases the source be used for a need within the listed in an upcoming issue of Let us march and pray and proclaim and protest until the Source: Harris Interactive ©2007 CNS of income to pay for these parish. These dollars are used FaithLife. most basic human right, the right to life, belongs to all.” By the Way... IURP&DWKROLF1HZV6HUYLFH St. Andrew Parish in Erie is still looking for the head of a statue that was IN THE U.S. the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Mass. Father PEOPLE OF FAITH vandalized sometime during the night Snyder said Catholic Charities would use the on Jan. 12 outside the church. The head With the Jan. 24 retirement of 77-year- paper to start a national dialogue on the topics Paulist Father Isaac Thomas Hecker of one of the three shepherd children old Bishop John J. Leibrecht of Spring- that most Americans don’t want to address. was “a real-life saint like you and me,” field-Cape Girardeau, Mo., up to 22 U.S. “This document ... is intended to start, enrich Cardinal Edward M. Egan of New York said was cut off the marble statue, which is bishops, including four cardinals, could retire and inform a conversation throughout our Jan. 27, describing the founder of the Paulist part of the parish’s shrine to Our Lady because of age this year. There are 14 active country, compelling each of us to serve, edu- Fathers. “He was a person who suffered, who of Fatima. U.S. bishops, including cate and advocate for programs and policies made his way through life bearing crosses and According to Msgr. Richard Sul- four cardinals, who that will foster unity in all of our communi- who taught that sanctity can be captured in livan, the statue could be repaired if have already turned ties, eliminate racism and significantly reduce many different ways,” the cardinal added. the head is found. The parish received 75. Seven more will poverty in our lifetime,” he said. The paper is He made the comments during a Mass that a phone call last week from a woman Jason Koshinskie celebrate their 75th available at www.catholiccharitiesusa.org. marked the opening of the cause for Father who found the head of a statue in the birthday in 2008. Hecker’s canonization and the 150th anniver- dumpster outside the Salvation Army downtown. But the head At age 75 bishops AROUND THE WORLD sary of the Church of St. Paul the Apostle, was found to be too small to be from the Fatima statue. are required to sub- the parish he established on Columbus Av- St. Andrew has always had a great devotion to the Blessed mit their resignation In praying for Christian unity, those enue in New York. In his homily, Cardinal Mother. The shrine, which was built in 1956, includes a six-foot to the pope. Pope who follow Jesus recognize their divisions pre- Egan traced the “troubles and tribulations” statue of Our Lady of Fatima. John Paul II often vent others from believing in the Gospel mes- that led Father Hecker to found the Paulists as Winds gusting between 35-50 mph on Jan. 30 knocked off a asked cardinals to sage of peace, love and salvation, Pope Bene- a distinctly “American approach to announc- 700-pound terra cotta cross from the top of St. Mary Parish in stay on the job after dict XVI said. “In common prayer, Christian ing the Gospel.” Erie. Thankfully no one was injured. One of the cross’ arms fell they reached the age communities place them- through the rectory’s basement window. The base of the cross of 75. Pope Benedict selves together before Msgr. Joseph Champlin, a Syracuse crashed through the church roof, going through a skylight and XVI has given no in- the Lord and, becoming priest who was known nationally as an au- damaging the floor in the center aisle. Due to repairs, the parish dication that he will aware of the contradic- thor, speaker and liturgist, died Jan. 17 after was forced to cancel the daily Mass the rest of the week. change that practice. tions arising from their a long battle with a rare form of bone cancer. Established in 1840, St. Mary is one of the oldest churches in Even when a car- divisions, they dem- He was 77. A prolific the Erie Diocese. dinal retires in his 70s, he remains an active onstrate their desire writer, Msgr. Cham- member of the College of Cardinals, eligible to obey his will, plin wrote more than The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops is offering to enter a conclave and vote for a new pope, relying on his 50 books with more a variety of multimedia resources to help Catholics reflect during until age 80. almighty assis- than 20 million copies the 2008 season of Lent, which began on Ash Wednesday, Feb. tance,” the in print. He circled the 6. Resources include a new series of “radio retreats” in English At a Mass celebrating the legacy pope said globe, traveling 2 mil- and Spanish featuring bishops as retreat leaders. Bishop Donald of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., Catho- Jan. 23 at lion miles lecturing, Trautman will lead the retreat for the second week of Lent. His lic Charities USA unveiled a plan to spark a his week- conducting retreats and homily will be followed by a question-and-answer segment and national conversation about ly general sharing his expertise the bishop’s blessing. racism and poverty. “Pover- audience. on liturgy and pastoral Resources on the special Web site (www.usccb.org/lent) are ty and racial injustice betray As is cus- care. From 1968-1971 he served as associate organized around four pillars of the United States Catholic our national ideals of liberty tomary during the Jan. 18-25 Week of Prayer director in the Liturgy Secretariat for the Na- Catechism for Adults: What we believe, what we celebrate, and justice for all,” said Fa- for Christian Unity, the pope dedicated his tional Conference of Catholic Bishops. Msgr. how we live and how we pray. The site includes information on ther Larry Snyder, president of Catholic Char- entire audience talk to ecumenism. Pope Champlin edited “A Catholic Handbook of fasting and abstinence, examinations of conscience to aid prepa- ities, during a Jan. 21 press conference in the Benedict said that common prayer is not a Pastoral Help for Marriage Preparation,” fa- ration for the sacrament of reconciliation and a section on Holy offices of the Cathedral of the Most Blessed strategy for publicizing the need for Christian miliar to many in the Erie Diocese. He is the Week observances. Sacrament in Detroit. Catholic Charities unity, “but is an expression of the faith that author of the “Together for Life” series that The Web site also has several versions of the Stations of the USA, which is based in Alexandria, Va., and unites all the disciples of Christ,” who had walked couples through almost every aspect Cross, including a new audio version available for download. has 1,700 local agencies and institutions na- prayed that his followers would be one. “It is and liturgical consideration of a Catholic tionwide, released a paper titled “Poverty and the awareness of our human limits that leads marriage ceremony. Many parishes in the Jason Koshinskie is editor of FaithLife. Contact him at JKoshinskie@ Racism: Overlapping Threats to the Common us to abandon ourselves with trust into the diocese have utilized the sacrificial giving ap- ErieRCD.org or 814.824.1171. Good.” It was handed out to those attending hands of the Lord,” he said. proach and program that he developed. Christ made himself Pro-life officials praise decline ‘ POOR for in U.S. abortion rate YOU By Catholic News Service Abortions Decline &RU Pope Benedict XVI’s WASHINGTON — A study Women who had an The number of reported abortion in 2000 and reported that they were: showing that abortion rates in the abortions began to message for Lent 2008 C a United States have fallen to their gradually decline in 1991 th ’ t o n a li and continued to fall. t c lowest level in nearly 30 years is s % e 27 t %

o 43

Editor’s note: Here is part one of the Vatican text good news for pro-life officials r P of Pope Benedict XVI’s message for Lent 2008. who attribute the decrease to 8% other Look for part two in the Feb. 24 issue of FaithLife. changing attitudes. 22% 1.59 1.61 “I am not surprised that the 1.55 no religion Dear brothers and sisters! number and rate of abortions is falling steadily,” said Deirdre number of reported abortions in millions 1.31 Each year, Lent offers us a providential oppor- McQuade, director of planning 1.36 tunity to deepen the meaning and value of our and information for the bishops’ Christian lives, and it stimulates us to rediscover Office of Pro-Life Activities, who 1.21 the mercy of God so that we, in turn, become credits the shift in part to recent more merciful toward our brothers and sisters. In debates about partial-birth abor- 1.03 the Lenten period, the church makes it her duty tion which have increased public to propose some specific tasks that accompany awareness about abortions. 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 the faithful concretely in this process of interior She said she was confident Source: Guttmacher Institute ©2008 CNS renewal: these are prayer, fasting and almsgiving. abortions would continue to de- For this year’s Lenten message, I wish to spend crease in the United States as The study, “Abortion in the detailed information about abor- some time reflecting on the practice of almsgiving, more information about abor- United States: Incidence and Ac- tion and its risks, biological infor- which represents a specific way to assist those in we possess: these, then, are not to be considered tions was made available to the cess to Services, 2005,” is based mation about the development of need and, at the same time, an exercise in self-de- as our exclusive possession, but means through general public, support networks on the organization’s survey of their unborn child and financial nial to free us from attachment to worldly goods. which the Lord calls each one of us to act as a expanded for expectant parents in abortion providers in the United information about the types of The force of attraction to material riches and steward of his providence for our neighbor. As the crisis, people sought healing from States and analysis of U.S. Cen- governmental and private assis- just how categorical our decision must be not to Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us, past abortions and adoption was sus Bureau data. The study will tance available to them. make of them an idol, Jesus confirms in a reso- material goods bear a social value, according to “treated as a courageous choice appear in the March 2008 issue of Although the Guttmacher re- lute way: “You cannot serve God and mammon” the principle of their universal destination (cf. n. for birth mothers.” the institute’s journal, Perspectives port did not list reasons for the (Lk 16,13). Almsgiving helps us to overcome this 2404) The number of abortions de- on Sexual and Reproductive Health. decreased number of abortions, constant temptation, teaching us to respond to our In the Gospel, Jesus explicitly admonishes the clined to 1.2 million in 2005, 25 Randall O’Bannon, director researchers said it could be a com- neighbor’s needs and to share with others whatev- one who possesses and uses earthly riches only for percent below the 1.6 million of education and research for bination of factors, including the er we possess through divine goodness. This is the self. In the face of the multitudes, who, lacking abortions in 1990 and is the lowest the National Right to Life Com- possible increased use of contra- aim of the special collections in favor of the poor, everything, suffer hunger, the words of St. John level reported since 1.179 million mittee, said the data indicate that ception, restrictions on abortions which are promoted during Lent in many parts of acquire the tone of a ringing rebuke: “How does in 1976, according to a study re- women are rejecting abortions and the wider availability of the the world. In this way, inward cleansing is accom- God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s leased Jan. 17 by the Guttmacher because they are becoming more abortion pill RU-486. panied by a gesture of ecclesial communion, mir- goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet Institute, a Planned Parenthood informed about the procedure. The report also noted a decline roring what already took place in the early church. refuses to help?” (1 Jn 3,17). In those countries affiliate based in New York. He said information about in the number of U.S. abortion In his letters, St. Paul speaks of this in regard to whose population is majority Christian, the call to The report shows the abortion abortions has become increas- providers since 2000. The num- the collection for the Jerusalem community (cf. 2 share is even more urgent, since their responsibility rate, the number of abortions ingly available, particularly in the ber of abortion providers de- Cor 8-9; Rm 15, 25-27). toward the many who suffer poverty and abandon- per every thousand women ages 23 states with informed consent creased in 26 states, increased in According to the teaching of the Gospel, we are ment is even greater. To come to their aid is a duty 15-44, was down to 19.4 for 1,000 laws ensuring that women seek- 15 states and stayed the same in not owners but rather administrators of the goods of justice even prior to being an act of charity. women — the lowest since 1974. ing abortion are provided with nine states.

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FaithLife 0HPEHURIWKH&DWKROLF3UHVV$VVRFLDWLRQ 7KHRI¿FLDOQHZVEXOOHWLQRIWKH 3XEOLVKHGELZHHNO\2ZQHGDQGRSHUDWHG E\WKH%LVKRSRI(ULH CLOCK REPAIR &DWKROLF'LRFHVHRI(ULH 6XEVFULSWLRQ\HDU 9ROXPH,VVXH )RUPRUHLQIRUPDWLRQFDOO Burdie’s Clock Shop *HQHUDO,QIRUPDWLRQ 7KH2I¿FHRI&RPPXQLFDWLRQVKDVEHHQ )D[ VHUYLQJ&DWKROLFVLQWKH'LRFHVHRI(ULH VLQFH2I¿FHVDUHORFDWHGDW 238 South Main St. (0DLO)DLWK/LIH#HULH5&'RUJ 6W0DUN&DWKROLF&HQWHU (GLWRULDO (DVW*UDQGYLHZ%OYG(ULH3D Cambridge Springs, PA 16403 $GYHUWLVLQJ 3HULRGLFDOSRVWDJHSDLGDW(ULH3D (814) 398-8263 3RVWPDVWHU6HQGDGGUHVVFKDQJHVWR )DLWK/LIHDW6W0DUN&DWKROLF&HQWHU “We Make House Calls” %ULHÁ\ DEATH NOTICES He received a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in education Catholic Colleges Week Feb. 17-23 Father Edward J. Stutz dies at 87 from St. Bonaventure University in 1965 and 1970, respectively. In Each year, the Association of Cath- Served as long-time pastor of St. Mary, Crown addition, he studied pastoral Spanish at Georgetown University in olic Colleges and Universities (ACCU) Washington, D.C., during the summers of 1961 and 1962. and the National Catholic College Ad- ERIE — Father Edward J. Stutz, 87, died He was ordained as a priest on May 27, 1965 at St. Peter Cathe- mission Association (National CCAA) on January 26, 2008 at St. Mary’s Asbury dral in Erie by the Most Rev. Frederick Hall, visiting bishop from present National Catholic Colleges Ridge in Erie. Kisumu, Kenya. His home parish was St. Joseph in Oil City. Week. Born August 30, 1920 in New Philadelphia, Father Driscoll served many years in the Catholic school system The week’s activities highlight the Pa., he was the son of the late Walter and of the Diocese of Erie. Following ordination, he was assigned from accomplishments of Catholic colleges Anna Shilauskas Stutz. 1965 to 1972 to the faculty of Elk County Christian High School in and celebrate the role of Catholic col- Father Stutz attended Brady Township High St. Marys. During that time, he resided at St. Leo Magnus Parish in leges in society. The major goal of Catholic Colleges Week is to en- School in Luthersburg, Pa., before transfer- Ridgway from 1965 to 1967, at the school’s faculty house from 1967 courage high schools, churches and families to encourage students ring to Cathedral Preparatory School in Erie to 1969 and at Holy Rosary Parish in Johnsonburg from 1969 to in the community to consider Catholic higher education. where he graduated in 1939. He attended Ca- 1972. Both Gannon University and Mercyhurst College will be in- thedral College (later Gannon University) in Father Edward In July 1972, he was transferred to Kennedy Christian High volved in the week’s festivities. Erie from 1939 to 1941. In 1941 he entered St. J. Stutz On Tues., Feb. 19, Dr. Michael Galligan-Stierle, vice president of School in Sharon with residence at Sacred Heart Parish in Sharon. Mary Seminary and University in Baltimore, earning a bachelor’s In November 1972, he was assigned as assistant pastor of St. An- the ACCU, will speak to Gannon University faculty and staff in the degree in 1943 and a baccalaureate (S.T.B.) and licentiate (S.T.L.) in afternoon about the spirituality of college students today. He will drew Parish in Erie. In 1983, he returned to Elk County Christian, sacred theology in 1946. this time as headmaster, serving until 1985. He also served briefly as speak to students about leadership at 7 p.m. in the Yehl Room. He was ordained a priest on May 30, 1946 at St. Peter Cathedral On Thurs., Feb 21, Bishop Trautman is offering a Lenten Eve- administrator of St. Benedict Parish in Daguscahonda from 1984 to ning of Recollection for Gannon faculty and staff and will then join in Erie by Archbishop John Mark Gannon. At the time of his or- 1985. He was named pastor of St. Philip Parish in Linesville in 1985 the students for Eucharistic adoration. dination, his home parish was St. Ladislaus in Detroit. Following and served there until 1998. On Sat., Feb. 23, Gannon hosts Mercyhurst College for women’s ordination, Father Stutz served as assistant pastor at St. John the He then was named pastor of St. Michael Parish in Fryburg, serv- and men’s basketball games. As an expression of their unity in Evangelist Parish in Girard from 1946 to 1948. From 1948 to 1952, ing in that position until his retirement in 2000. He continued to faith, Father Jason Glover from Gannon and Father Jim Piszker he was assigned as assistant pastor at St. John the Baptist Parish in reside in Fryburg until 2005 when he moved to Oil City. from Mercyhurst will jointly offer the prayer before the game. Erie, and from 1952 to 1958 he served as the assistant pastor at St. Brigid Parish in Meadville. In 1958 he was transferred to St. Joseph Parish in Sharon, where Deacon Edward E. Ward Sr. dies at 65 Operation Rice Bowl he served as assistant until 1961 when he was named administrator Served at St. Tobias, Brockway Operation Rice Bowl, the official Lenten Program of Catho- of St. Mary Parish in Crown. Six weeks after his arrival in Crown he lic Relief Services, began in 1975 as a response to the drought in was named pastor, continuing in that capacity until his retirement in BROCKWAY — Deacon Edward E. Ward the African Sahel. For 33 years, Operation Rice Bowl has called 1994. During his retirement he resided in Erie, eventually residing at Sr., 65, of 2543 Rt. 219, Brockway, died Janu- participants to pray with their families and faith communities; fast St. Mary’s Home in Erie until his death. ary 29, 2008 at his residence. in solidarity with those who hunger; learn about our global com- He was born on August 23, 1942 in Brock- munity and the challenges of poverty overseas, and give sacrificial way, son of the late Edward and Rena Reitz contributions to those in need. Father William J. Driscoll dies at 68 Ward. He was the husband of Linda Sheley, to Since its beginning, Operation Rice Bowl has raised more than Served many years in Catholic schools whom he had been married for 44 years. $160 million to fund development projects that improve peoples’ He was a member of St. Tobias Parish ability to access food around the world and in local diocesan com- OIL CITY — Father William J. Driscoll, in Brockway. He worked as an inspector at munities in the United States. 68, died on January 29, 2008 at UPMC North- Brockway Glass for 33 years, before retiring. Today, more than 14,000 faith communities across the United west, Seneca. Deacon Edward During his later years, he entered the Erie Dio- E. Ward Sr. States participate in Operation Rice Bowl as a way to respect hu- Born August 29, 1939, he was the son of the cese’s permanent diaconate program and was man dignity and foster solidarity with the poor around the world. late William J. Driscoll II and Helen J. Kirch- ordained a deacon on June 4, 1999. He served at St. Tobias, where Last year, $8 million was offered by participants in Operation Rice ner Driscoll. he also taught the R.C.I.A. program. He was also a member of the Bowl. He attended St. Joseph grade school and Knights of Columbus and a member of St. Vincent DePaul Society. For more information about Opeation Rice Bowl, visit high school in Oil City, graduating in 1957. He Deacon Ward is survived by his wife Linda Ward of Brockway, http://orb.crs.org. entered St. Mark Seminary in Erie at attended son Edward Ward Jr. of Brockport, daughters Deborah Camuso and Gannon University for two years before com- Denise Larson both of Brockport and Carol Wingard of Brockway pleting his seminary training at Christ the Father William Marriage Encounter Feb. 22-24 J. Driscoll as well as his brother Robert Ward of Falls Creek. He is also survived King Seminary at St. Bonaventure University by 14 grandchildren. Marriage Encounter is a unique weekend experience designed in Olean, N.Y. to help revitalize Christian marriage. Couples commit to an entire weekend together during which they are invited to devote concen- trated time and energy to their relationship. The focus of the program is communication, and couples learn the technique of dialogue. The next Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend is Feb. 22-24. Call Ed and Sue Hudson at 814.823.4600 or go to www.wwme.org for details. St. Luke parish mission St. Luke Parish, 421 E. 38th St., Erie, is holding a parish mis- Dinners sion March 2-5. Events will take place each night from 7 - 8:15 pm. The mission will be led by Father Steve Vasek, O.M.I., and Sister Jean Fitzpatrick, S.S.C. All are welcome to attend and enjoy FISH & PIEROGI FISH, SHRIMP & CRAB LEGS FISH the strengthening and/or renewal of their faith with compassion, Our Lady of Mount Carmel LUNCH AND DINNER St. Luke Parish meditation, reconciliation and celebration. For more information Scheffner Hall St. Joseph School Knights of Columbus about the mission, call the rectory at 814.825.6920. 1553 E. Grandview Blvd., Erie, PA Route 66, Lucinda, PA School Cafeteria February 15, 29 & March 14 February 8, 15, 22, 29 421 E. 38 St., Erie, PA 4:00-7:00 PM March 7, 14, 21 February 15, 22 & March 7, 14 Adults: $8.00 4:00-7:00 PM 5:00-7:00 PM Ages 7-12: $4.00 Adult: $7.95, Child: $3.95 Adult: $7.00 Donation 6 and under: Free 4 and under: Free Child: (6-12): $5.00 Donation Takeouts Available for Crab Leg Dinner: $11.95 6 and under: Free 50 cents more. Dinner includes: Dinner includes: More info, call Kathy Pytlarz at • Baked or Fried Fish, Shrimp or Crab Legs • Icelandic Cod 825-6626 • Choice of Potato • French Fries • Coleslaw, Roll, Drink, Dessert • Coleslaw or Applesauce LUNCH • Macaroni and Cheese or Pierogi 11:00 AM-1:00 PM, $6.00 • Sherbet, Drinks FISH & PIEROGI Takeout ONLY. Call 226-8310 825-6920 Lunch includes: St. Stanislaus Parish • Fish Sandwich, French Fries, Coleslaw 516 E. 13 St., Erie, PA February 8, 22 and March 7 FISH FISH 4:00-7:00 PM St. Joseph Church Adults: $8.50 Blessed Sacrament Parish 17735 Bennetts Valley Hwy, Force, PA Ages 6-12: $3.25, 5 and under: Free Blessed Sacrament Cafeteria, Erie, PA Ash Wednesday: February 6 February 8, 22 & March 7 Takeouts: $8.75, Call 452-6606 and every Friday during Lent 4:30-7:00 PM 4:00-7:00 PM Adults: $8 for Fish or Cheese Ravioli Dinner Adult: $8.50, 12 and under: $5.00 $5.00 for Macaroni and Cheese Dinner Dinner includes: Child under 12: • Baked or Fried Haddock $5.00 for Fish or Cheese Ravioli FISH • French Fries or Baked Potato -RLQ

Cathedral Center collects items for orphanage ERIE — Students at Cathedral Center recently collected items such as towels, blankets, tooth- paste, toothbrushes and baby wipes for an orphanage in Jamai- ca. Owen McCormick, a senior at Cathedral Prep High School, organized the project from fliers and advertising to boxing the items and mailing them. The school collected enough items to fill 15 large boxes. Pictured from left to right are (front row) Natalie Wagner, Da- vid Roach, Rachel Bowen, (back row) Ashlynn Rowane, Summer Rodriques and Owen McCor- St. Columbkille honors volunteers for years of service mick. STONEBORO — On Dec. 9, St. Columbkille in Stoneboro presented awards to parishioners who are over 80 years of age to Sisters of St. Joseph share gifts recognize them for their years of service. A special achievement from 19th annual Thanksgiving dinner award was given to the oldest ac- ERIE — The Sisters of St. tive parishioner, Eleanora Wiand, Joseph of Northwestern Penn- who is 92. sylvania, in cooperation with the Pictured from left to right are: Marketplace Grill restaurant, pre- (front row) Irene Kinch, Betty pared and served more than 1,000 Jean Sullivan, Irene Reash, meals to persons who were alone, Biaggio Chimera, Mary Ann in need or otherwise would not Gallagher, Lois Schiemer, (back have celebrated the Thanksgiving row) Sarah Safran, Eleanora Wi- holiday, at the sisters’ 19th An- and and Leonard Gallagher. nual Thanksgiving Dinner. Nearly 600 donors supported the sisters’ efforts through financial gifts as well as food donations. Numerous others volun- teered at the dinner by preparing, Diocese opens chapel at Millcreek Mall serving or delivering meals to homebound individuals. Mon- CONFESSIONS from page 1 etary donations helped cover the retail. If a space is available for a period of time, part, and we’ll see how it goes.” cost of the dinner and provide different businesses will come in. Malls used to According to a 2007 report from the Georgetown needed resources that the sisters have everything. They got away from different ser- University-based Center for Applied Research in share with local shelters, food From left to right: Lisa Kelleher, St. Paul neighborhood Free Clinic; vice business, and it’s now coming back to that.” the Apostolate (CARA), most Catholic adults ad- banks and agencies throughout Dick Rahner, Shankar Service Foundation; Sister Mary Herrmann, On Ash Wednesday, Bishop Trautman and Fa- mit to infrequent or no participation in the sacra- the year. SSJ, Sisters of St. Joseph Neighborhood Network; Cheryl Kobel, St. ther Ed Lohse, diocesan chancellor, introduced ment of reconciliation. Citing data from a 2005 poll On January 13, the sisters host- Martin Center; and Karen Seggi, Second Harvest Food Bank. the concept by hearing confessions and distribut- of adult Catholics in the U.S., the report stated that ed representatives from various lo- ing ashes. Confessions, both traditional and face 42 percent of those surveyed responded that they cal agencies and organizations for to face, will be heard on Wednesdays from 2 to 4 never go to confession. Thirty-two percent said they liturgy and continental breakfast p.m. and from 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 went less than once a year, and 26 percent said they at the Sisters’ Community Living a.m. to 3 p.m. went once a year or more. Center and presented them with “However, if there is such a volume, we will Whatever their reasons might be, the numbers donations from the proceeds of hear them every day,” Bishop Trautman said. “If show that people are avoiding confession. By having the Thanksgiving Dinner. the need is there, we’ll do it other days of the week, a chapel in such a public setting, Bishop Trautman “The Thanksgiving Dinner but that remains to be seen. Right now we have it said he hopes bring people back to the sacrament. project is in keeping with our worked out for Wednesdays and Saturdays.” “We should not come with fear and trembling mission of unity of neighbor Both retired and active priests are being lined but we should come with joy in our hearts know- with neighbor and neighbor with up for the time slots. ing that the Lord wants to welcome us and embrace God,” said Sister Mary Claire The mall chapel will remain open throughout us,” he said. Kennedy, SSJ, co-chairperson of the season of Lent during regular mall hours for He recalled Jesus’ parable of the prodigal son re- the dinner. “We believe that shar- visitors to stop in and pray. It will be closed Sun- turning home to his father. When the father sees his ing the spirit of the holiday is one days. After Lent, a schedule will be announced. son coming down the road, he runs out to embrace of the greatest gifts we can give. This evangelization attempt is not, in any way, him. He then calls for a robe to be put on him, san- And to be able to share these gifts to rival parish life, the bishop said, but rather an dals for his feet and a ring to be put on his finger. with other agencies that serve the opportunity to bring people back to the sacrament “I love that story,” the bishop said. “That prodi- lonely and less fortunate through- of reconciliation and the church. gal son represents all of us. And the father doesn’t out the year is a great way of ex- “We want to get people back to their parish make the prodigal crawl back. The father rushes out tending the spirit of giving.” communities,” he said. “It’s an experiment on our to meet him. For me, that’s the powerful part.” Agencies and representatives attending and not pictured in- From left to right: Daniel O’Brien, International Institute; Bob Jen- clude: Shirley Schell, Mercy Cen- kins, St. Luke Food Pantry; Mary Ann Varnick, L’Arche; Mr. and ter for Women; Agnes Priscaro, Mrs. Tm Giles, St. John Holy Rosary Food Pantry. March for Life MHEDS; Sue Porowski, Crime Victim Center; Jeanne Niedziel- marks Roe v Wade ski, St. Andrew Food Bank; Jeff St. Pat’s Haven; and Dorothy Blessed Sacrament Food Bank, Hardner, Sister Mary Pascal, Zupanick, Sacred Heart Food St. Paul Food Bank, Prince of anniversary SSJ, Food Pantry; Kim Lytle, Pantry. Peace Center, House of Healing, Erie DAWN; Ruth Mercier and Other agencies receiving do- Bread for the World, Doctors MARCH from page 1 Zeline Euler, St. James Haven; nations include: St. Ann Food Without Borders and Catholic presidential campaign trail a few Sister Marie Eileen Moyer, SSJ, Bank, Union City Food Bank, Rural Ministry, Oil City. days earlier. In his remarks recorded at a White House breakfast earlier that morning and replayed at the rally, Bush lauded those who Students from DuBois Central work for “a culture of life where Catholic High school take part To: Women of the Erie Community a woman with an unplanned in the March for Life in Wash- You are invited to attend and receive a belated pregnancy knows there are car- ington on Jan. 22. The Campus ing people who will support her; Ministry Department of DuBois Valentine gift to yourself by... where a pregnant teen can carry Central Catholic High School • “Honoring Yourself her child and complete her educa- spearheaded a group of 37 stu- • • tion; where the dignity of both the dents along with 6 chaperones as a Woman.” mother and child is honored and who left the school at 6 a.m. and cherished.” returned home at 11 p.m. • Guest speaker: Mimi O’Connor Overall, the program focused When: Thursday, February 21 on a consistent pro-life ethic, said Landini-Grogan. • 7:00-9:00 pm “While it was the 35th anniver- Where: St. George Parish (5145 Peach St., Erie) sary of Roe v. Wade, they were • talking about stem cell research, Tickets: Call 864-0622 the death penalty, euthanasia and • • how all of these are attacks on • life. It was all-encompassing.” Tickets are FREE, but a free will oﬀering is appreciated. Call Jackie: 814-490-6848

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