The 6 1966-201 50th A nniversaryCatholicWitness The Newspaper of the Diocese of Harrisburg April 15, 2016 Vol. 50 No. 7 Historic St. Mary’s Celebrates 275 Years, Builds for Future

CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS Bishop Ronald Gainer, Kevin Molloy, Chair of the Legacy Project and the Development of Preservation Committee, and Father Leo Goodman, pastor of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in Lancaster, break ground at the historic church as part of the first phase of its Enduring Legacy Project. The initial phase involves renovation of the church’s plaza, and improving accessibility to the church nave through handicap accessible ramps from the street level to the church plaza, and from the plaza to the church’s main entrance. This year marks the 275th anniversary of St. Mary’s, the fourth oldest Catholic community in the country and a diocesan pilgrimage site during this Year of Mercy. See pages 8 and 9 for coverage of the celebration. Share Truth of Family with Mercy, Help Those Struggling, Pope Says in Exhortation By Cindy Wooden People grow in holiness, and the Church must be Catholic News Service there to give them a helping hand rather than turn them away because they have not attained some The same mercy and patience that are essen- degree of perfection. tial for building a strong family must be shown to The exhortation was Pope Francis’ reflection on those whose families are in trouble or have bro- the discussion, debate and suggestions raised dur- ken up, Pope Francis said in his highly anticipated ing the 2014 and 2015 meetings of the Synod of postsynodal apostolic exhortation. Bishops on the family. Like synod members did, The document, “Amoris Laetitia (The Joy of the pope insisted that God’s plan for the family is Love), on Love in the Family,” released April 8, that it be built on the lifelong union of one man and contains no new rules or norms. However, it en- one woman open to having children. courages careful review of everything related to Synod members, including priests, religious and family ministry and, particularly, much greater at- laypeople serving as experts and observers, talked tention to the language and attitude used when ex- about everything from varied cultural forms of plaining Church teaching and ministering to those courtship to marriage preparation and from the im- who do not fully live that teaching. pact of migration on families to care for elderly “No family drops down from heaven perfectly parents. formed; families need constantly to grow and ma- Pope Francis’ document touches on all the issues ture in the ability to love,” Pope Francis wrote. raised at the synods and gives practical advice on raising children, urges a revision of sex- education programs and decries the many ways the “disposable culture” has infil- trated family life and sexuality to the point that many people feel free to use and then walk away from others. CNS/PAUL HARING “Everyone uses and throws away, takes A newly married couple hold rosaries in their hands as and breaks, exploits and squeezes to the they leave Pope Francis’ general audience in St. Peter’s last drop. Then, goodbye,” he wrote. Square at the Vatican Feb. 24. Pope Francis’ postsynodal apostolic exhortation on the family, Amoris Laetitia (“The More FAMILY, page 5 Joy of Love”), was released April 8. The 2 - Catholic Witness • April 15, 2016 Child Abuse Prevention Month

Did You Know… 1. April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. The Diocese of Harrisburg, along with many of the 195 dioceses and eparchies in the Unit- My Brothers and Sisters in Christ: ed States, participates in this month as an op- In recent years, we have learned more about the prevalence portunity to highlight the many activities the of the sin of child abuse in more ways than we care to imag- diocese is doing to prevent child sexual abuse. 2. Suspected abuse of a minor should be re- ine. Tragic reports about children harmed by adults who are ported to the 24-hour PA Child Abuse Hotline charged with their care are far too common in our society. at (800) 932-0313. To report suspected abuse Whether it is a teacher, coach, counselor, or clergy these sto- of a minor by a Church official, employee or ries repulse us and understandably can shake our confidence volunteer please also call the Diocesan toll free in the very people and organizations we are supposed to trust. hotline at (800) 626-1608. Suspected abuse by The March 1 grand jury report detailing abuses that took a church official, employee or volunteer can place in the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown is particularly also be reported via e-mail to ReportAbuse@ troublesome. The news brings back disquieting feelings for hbgdiocese.org. so many within our Church, which has learned its own les- 3. There is no statute of limitations for re- moving a cleric who has sexually abused a sons the hard way. To report suspected abuse of a minor, call Our diocese has not been immune, but for decades the Di- minor from public ministry in the Catholic Church. Regardless of when the abuse oc- the toll free PA Child Abuse Hotline at: ocese of Harrisburg has been taking strong and aggressive curred, a cleric against whom there is an es- 1-800-932-0313. steps to combat it. I can tell you that we have responded to tablished or admitted act of child sexual abuse the survivors and their families with compassion and sup- To report suspected abuse of a minor by a is permanently removed from active ministry. church official, employee or volunteer, also port to help them heal. No matter who committed the crime 4. Since the early 1990s the Diocese of Har- against them or when the crime occurred, each year we make risburg has had a well-established zero tol- please call the diocesan toll free hotline at: available counseling and funding for medical treatment, we erance policy for clergy, lay employees and 1-800-626-1608 eliminate barriers to travel and childcare, we provide voca- volunteers who engage in misconduct with or email: [email protected] tional assistance and other forms of support to men, women, children, and we take immediate action when For more information, visit children and families. an accusation is made. www.HbgDiocese.org/protect Just as important, we work every day to create Church and 5. The Youth Protection Program of the Di- school environments that protect our young people and keep ocese of Harrisburg already met or exceeded many of the updated Pennsylvania Child Pro- what to do about it. them from harm. Let me be very clear, since the early 1990’s tection Statues. Where needed, our program 13. Background clearances have been con- the Diocese of Harrisburg has a well-established zero toler- is updated to fully comply with or exceed all ducted on all priests and deacons, educators, ance policy for clergy, lay employees and volunteers who state laws. parish volunteers, Church personnel and can- engage in misconduct with children, and we take immediate 6. The Diocese of Harrisburg reports all al- didates for ordination in the Diocese of Har- action when an accusation is made. Any allegation of abuse legations of sexual abuse of a minor to the risburg. must be reported immediately to law enforcement and any civil authorities. 14. All audited dioceses, including Har- credible or substantiated allegation against a member of the 7. The Charter for the Protection of Chil- risburg, have Codes of Conduct spelling out clergy results in immediate removal from ministry. dren and Young People was established by the what is acceptable behavior. These codes We are also committed to educating all those who work United States Bishops (USCCB) in June 2002. serve to let people know what behaviors are with children, as well as the children in our schools and edu- It is a comprehensive set of procedures for ad- and are not accepted as well as what behavior can be expected. cation programs, about how to recognize improper conduct dressing allegations of sexual abuse of minors by Catholic clergy. It is revised continually to 15. Over 59,000 children in the Diocese of and to report a problem. I want you to know that: reflect the ongoing commitment of the bish- Harrisburg have been given the skills to rec- There are over 200 designated Safe Environment Coordi- ops. ognize both a grooming process and to tell nators working in our parishes, schools and youth serving 8. The Charter directs action in all the fol- parents and other trusted adults about such ministries to ensure compliance with laws and policies. lowing matters: behavior. Each student will receive at least 3 Since 2004, over 32,000 adults underwent background • Healing and reconciliation of victims and hours of training during their career. screenings and undertook almost 58,800 hours of mandated survivors, 16. Dioceses/eparchies require intensive reporter training to recognize, respond to and report child • Making prompt and effective response to background screening as well as psychologi- abuse. allegations, cal testing for those wishing to enter the semi- Over 59,000 children have received 177,000 hours of in- • Cooperating with civil authorities, nary. Audit figures for 2014 report that out of struction in abuse prevention education. • Disciplining offenders, 6,602 Candidates for Ordination 6,503 have The diocese has invested over $825,000 in education and • Creating a safe environment for children been trained and 6,568 have had a background check. training since 2004. and young people, • And providing for means of accountabil- 17. The Charter requires that all dioceses I know that our work to help survivors heal, protect our ity for the future to ensure the problem con- be open and transparent regarding cases of people and purify the Church will go on – permanently. I en- tinues to be effectively dealt with through the sexual abuse. Parishes affected by abuse are courage anyone who has been abused to report the abuse and USCCB Secretariat of Child and Youth Pro- informed openly, honestly and compassion- seek help immediately by calling the toll-free Pennsylvania tection and the National Review Board. ately of allegations. ChildLine number at 800-932-0313 or local law enforce- 9. Victim Assistance Coordinators are avail- 18. The Diocese of Harrisburg has a Review ment. Our victim assistance coordinator, Dr. Mark Totaro at able in all dioceses, including Harrisburg, as- Board. It is a lay group appointed by the Bish- 800-626-1608 can provide more information about how the suring victims that they will be heard. In 2014, op to offer its advice on matters of child and diocese can help or visit our website at www.HbgDiocese. dioceses/eparchies provided outreach to 1,863 youth protection to the Diocese on the protec- org/safeyouth. victims/survivors. Locally, people should call tion of children and young people. Please also join me in prayer for those who have experi- the diocesan toll free hotline at (800) 626-1608 19. Bishops communicate with each other on a regular basis to ensure a cleric who com- enced the pain of abuse that they may find their individual to reach the Victim Assistance Coordinator. 10. There are over 200 designated Safe En- mitted an act of sexual abuse is not transferred path to healing and so that the Catholic Church’s painful ex- vironment Coordinators working in our par- to another diocese. perience will contribute to a better understanding of sexual ishes, schools and youth serving ministries to 20. All dioceses have written policies on the abuse everywhere. May you, as a parishioner of our diocese ensure compliance with laws and policies. sexual abuse of minors by clerics and Church and as parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles of our chil- 11. The Charter calls for annual audits of personnel. Ours are located at www.Hbg dren, also find peace in this promise to protect our children dioceses to ascertain compliance with the Diocese.org/safeyouth. and pledge to heal survivors, their families and our Church. Charter by the bishop and his diocese. Annual 21. There are 51,634 priests/deacons in the audits have been conducted since 2003. The United States that are dedicated, holy men of In Christ’s Love Diocese of Harrisburg has successfully passed integrity who work tirelessly to bring Christ every audit. to the faithful. 12. Safe Environment training is taking 22. The Catholic Church is working to place in all audited dioceses of the country. In become one of the safest institutions in the the Diocese of Harrisburg, over 32,000 clergy, country. Until child sexual abuse is no longer Most Reverend Ronald W. Gainer employees and volunteers have been trained a part of society, the Church will continue its to recognize the behavior of offenders and efforts to stop it. The April 15, 2016 • Catholic Witness - 3 Justice Out of Balance State Lawmakers Vote for Legislation that Could Bankrupt Catholic Parishes, Schools & Ministries By A. B. Hill organizations, no matter when the of- were depleted to satisfy costly settle- a leader in providing abuse survivors Special to The Witness fense occurred. It would not apply to ments and attorneys’ fees as part of the with counseling and other forms of as- public schools or government agen- bankruptcy proceeding. “In every Cath- sistance. The dioceses in Pennsylvania Parish volunteers and employees cies. Public entities would still be able olic diocese in Pennsylvania, there are have committed significant resources who work with children know firsthand to claim sovereign immunity from law- numerous parishes and schools that are to help sexual abuse survivors and their the measures now in place to protect suits, even though the vast majority of struggling to stay afloat,” says O’Hara. families obtain counseling, support the children in their care from abuse, Pennsylvania students – 83 percent – “A retroactive change in the law will groups or other social and material ser- including background checks and safe attend public school. Survivors abused hit these parishes and schools the hard- vices to assist them in their healing and environment training about recogniz- in public schools, juvenile detention fa- est, jeopardizing their existence.” recovery from the traumatic experience ing and reporting signs of abuse. cilities, or county foster care programs “We can all agree that anyone who of abuse. However, state lawmakers are con- could not bring suits under the legisla- sexually abuses a child should be se- This is not the first time Pennsyl- sidering amendments to legislation that tion. verely punished by the law,” added vania has addressed the statute of could lead to the closure of parishes, A fundamental principle of Ameri- O’Hara. “Sexual predators should be limitations issue. As recently as 2008, schools and ministries of today’s Cath- can law, statutes of limitations set time locked behind bars and removed from Pennsylvania increased the statute of olics, who are in no way responsible frames within which parties need to society so they cannot hurt anyone limitations on sexual abuse cases from for abuse that occurred decades ago. take action to ensure fairness in our le- else; but opening the floodgates for age 20 to age 50 for criminal prosecu- The proposal would retroactively gal system. Simply put, statutes of lim- decades-old civil lawsuits will not put tions and age 20 to 30 for civil actions. nullify the statute of limitations for fil- itations encourage lawsuits to be filed one pedophile in jail.” A task force that was appointed in the ing a civil lawsuit alleging childhood when witnesses are available, memo- More than two-thirds of the accused wake of the sexual abuse revelations sexual abuse. It would force parishes, ries are fresh, and evidence is intact. perpetrators [68 percent] were already at Penn State reviewed the law and dioceses, schools and charities to de- Measures that nullified the civil stat- dead or very old and long removed recommended a sweeping overhaul of fend cases that are 30, 40 or 50 years ute of limitations in other states drained from ministry at the time claims were state child protection statutes. It also old, long after the perpetrator and pos- billions of dollars from current minis- made under California’s statutes of addressed Pennsylvania’s statute of sible witnesses have died or clear evi- tries, parishes, schools and dioceses. limitations “window.” Plaintiffs’ attor- limitations and did not recommend any dence is gone. The Diocese of Wilmington, DE, paid neys filed so many cases in California, changes. They cited fairness as a major “Every nonprofit organization is at out $77.4 million in bankruptcy. The Delaware, and Minnesota that out-of- concern, especially “the potential for risk,” says Robert J. O’Hara, Jr., execu- Diocese of Duluth, Minnesota, was or- court settlement and bankruptcy were staleness of evidence and possible con- tive director of the Pennsylvania Cath- dered to pay $8.1 million to just one the only way to manage the numbers. stitutional concerns.” The report states, olic Conference. “Nothing in the pro- child abuse survivor. The dioceses in Very few victims or defendants had “The Task Force believes that the cur- posed Pennsylvania legislation would California paid out $1.2 billion for their day in court; guilt or innocence rent statute of limitations is adequate, send any perpetrators to jail. Rather, it more than 1,000 claims, some involv- was not the deciding factor in settle- given that Pennsylvania is one of the will put individual parishes and neigh- ing alleged abuse as far back as the ments but crippling financial ramifi- most ‘generous’ states in terms of the borhood Catholic schools in the firing 1930s. Bankruptcy and severe debt was cations for the defendant parishes and length of time within which an action line for lawsuits that are nearly impos- the only option for most dioceses in the dioceses were the result. may be commenced.” (Report of the sible to defend against.” states with retroactive windows. Since 2002, the Catholic Church has Task Force on Child Protection, pg. 28) O’Hara acknowledged that the In Delaware, where a retroactive law worked to end child sexual abuse by “Sexual abuse is a serious crime that Church has learned hard lessons re- was adopted, more than half of the in- aggressively responding to allegations affects every institution and communi- garding child sexual abuse. In recent dividual parishes in the state were sued. and educating adults and children about ty in Pennsylvania, public and private,” years, the prevalence of adult miscon- One parish in Delaware was hit with the signs of abuse. Today, the dioceses O’Hara said. Because of its gravity, it duct with children has been revealed in a verdict of over $3 million. Very few have one-strike-you’re-out policies for needs to be dealt with comprehensively nearly every institution and organiza- could afford to go to court; none were clergy and employees accused of mis- and fairly. Any discussion of a legisla- tion that serves children. He added that able to defend themselves on their own. conduct with children. As a matter of tive remedy must protect all children, the Church has responded accordingly Financially, they had no choice but to policy, any allegation of child sexual not simply penalize some institutions.” with compassionate assistance, includ- join a group settlement without estab- abuse must be immediately reported to The Pennsylvania Catholic Confer- ing financial support, for survivors and lishing the facts of individual cases. the proper law enforcement agency. ence is urging Pennsylvanians who comprehensive education and training The Diocese of Wilmington had to In Pennsylvania, over 450,000 Cath- value our parishes, schools and charita- to identify and prevent abuse. close two struggling inner-city Cath- olics have been trained to identify signs ble organizations to contact their state “No other institution has done more olic schools because diocesan funds of abuse and are mandated to make a lawmakers and oppose unfair changes in recent years to help survivors of were drained paying out settlements. report when they suspect wrongdo- to the civil statute of limitations. Visit abuse and put in place policies to pre- The diocese had to lay off 10 percent ing. All clergy, staff and volunteers www.pacatholic.org for information. vent abuse from happening in the first of its workforce, and shut down or se- who work with children are carefully (The Pennsylvania Catholic Con- place,” O’Hara said. “And yet, there are verely cut back on its Catholic Chari- screened for any past transgressions ference is the public affairs agency of some legislators who continue to aim ties programs that help all people re- against children. Ironically, these Pennsylvania’s Catholic bishops and devastating legislation, like this current gardless of creed. long-time practices put in place by the the Catholic dioceses of Pennsylvania. proposal, directly at the Church.” Diocesan resources, which had kept Church are now state law for all adults Stay up-to-date with Catholic news and As proposed, this “window” legisla- struggling parishes and schools open who work with children, following re- issues at www.pacatholic.org, www. tion would open up a period of time for and filled the gaps for ministries that forms made in 2014. facebook.com/pacatholic, and www. lawsuits against private and nonprofit feed the hungry and serve those in need, The Catholic Church has also been twitter.com/pacatholic).

Harrisburg Diocesan Bishop Gainer’s Council of Catholic Women Public Calendar Invites all women of the diocese to their

• April 16 – Day of Reflection, Monocacy Manor, Bethlehem, Pa. Sixth Annual Retreat • April 17 – Celebrant and Homilist at Diocesan Scouting Mass, Church of the Good Shepherd, Camp Hill, Mount St. Mary’s University, 2 p.m. Emmitsburg, MD • April 18 – Clergy Convocation, Cardinal Keeler Center, Harrisburg, 1 p.m. June 10 -12, 2016 • April 19 – Confirmation, Carmel of Jesus Mary and Joseph, Elysburg, 10 a.m. (Friday evening • April 20 – Pennsylvania Catholic Conference Administrative Board Meeting, Cardinal Keeler Center, until Sunday noon) Harrisburg; Confirmation at St. Philip the Apostle Church, Millersville, 7 p.m. • April 21 – College of Deans Meeting, Cardinal Keeler Center, Harrisburg, 11 a.m.; Confirmation at St. Rita Retreat Master: Church, Blue Ridge Summit, 7 p.m. Father Dwight Schlaline, pastor of Our • April 22 – Confirmation at Divine Redeemer Church, Mount Carmel, 7 p.m. Lady of the Visitation Parish in • April 23 – Confirmation at St. Joseph Church, Mechanicsburg, 10 a.m.; Attend Music on Second Cabaret, Shippensburg and Campus Prince of Peace Parish, Steelton, 6 p.m. Minister at Shippensburg University • April 24 – Celebrant and Homilist at 90th Anniversary Mass and Confirmation, Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Enola,10:30 a.m.; Celebrant and Homilist at Millersville University Campus Ministry Mass, Millersville, 6 p.m. Registration Deadline: • April 25 – Our Mother of Perpetual Help Vocations Day, Our Mother of Perpetual Help School, Ephrata, 1 May 30, 2016 p.m.; Confirmation at St. Anthony of Padua Church, Lancaster, 7 p.m. • April 26 – Attend Diocesan Youth Council Appreciation Dinner, Cardinal Keeler Center, Harrisburg, 6 p.m. Contact: • April 28 – Confirmation for St. Elizabeth Ann Seton and St. Katharine Drexel parishes at St. Joseph Church, Barbara McCarthy Mechanicsburg, 7 p.m. at 717-534-1858 or [email protected] with • April 29 – Confirmation at St. Joseph Church, Berwick, 7 p.m. questions or to register. Registration forms are • April 30 – Confirmation at St. Columba Church, Bloomsburg, 10 a.m.; Celebrate Mass and receive relics of also available on the HDCCW Saint Maximilian Kolbe, Mother Cabrini Church, Shamokin, 4 p.m. website: http://hdccw.webs.com/calendar • May 1 – Confirmation at Our Lady Help of Christians Church, Lykens, 2 p.m. The 4 - Catholic Witness • April 15, 2016 Mercy is not only the Stateside Event Answers Challenge to Celebrate Action of the Father WYD at the Domestic Level By Sister Geralyn Schmidt, SCC Special to The Witness By Jen Reed The Catholic Witness We have two sayings among the older Sisters of my congregation that give me pause whenever I hear them: “We stand on the shoulders of giants” and “There are During a webinar highlighting the latest details about this summer’s World saints among us.” Youth Day Stateside event in Lancaster, officials associated with the pilgrim- For me, this becomes a personal reminder when I consider that age remarked that the first-of-its kind gathering here in the diocese is a direct I have the privilege of working on “holy response to a challenge by the nation’s bishops. ground” in the midst of the Diocese of “The United States Bishops have asked us and challenged us as domestic Harrisburg. Let me explain. Thoughts Church to celebrate World Youth Day right here in the United States,” said Deb My foundress, Blessed Pauline von from a Catholic Waters, Director of Campus Ministry at Lancaster Catholic High School, during Mallinckrodt, actually walked the streets Evangelist the April 8 presentation from the Cardinal Keeler Center in Harrisburg. of Harrisburg. Before her death in 1881, Sister Geralyn They’ve seen the international celebration’s impact on evangeli- she visited all of her congregation’s ini- Schmidt, SCC tial foundations in the “new world.” zation and vocations, she pointed Register Online out, noting that one in five priests There were two within the Diocese of Registration is $175 until April 30; Harrisburg: St. Lawrence in Harrisburg and St. Hubert, now St. and one in four religious in 2013 had taken part in some celebra- $190 thereafter, until May 31. Joseph, in Danville. The convent associated with St. Lawrence Overnight and Sunday-only used to be in a lot that is behind the school. Between the convent and the school, I tion of World Youth Day. “If we can engage more peo- tickets are available. am told, was a small garden. This garden gave the Sisters who lived there a small Youth must register variety of flowers that were used to decorate the chapel and the church, as well as ple here domestically who don’t have the opportunity to go to the with a youth group. fresh vegetables. international World Youth Day, Families and young adults While Blessed Pauline was visiting, an argument broke out between two of we can provide a close, domes- may register individually. the grounds keepers of the school and church. This argument was evidently a bit tic, regional celebration that feels For more information, contact: heated. According to the accounts, when Blessed Pauline heard the argument, she like the international gathering,” approached the two men. Since she spoke only German, and was a formidable Virginia Pereira she said of the stateside event for [email protected] presence, I would conclude that they stopped their argument in order to ascertain high school youth, young adults 717-657-4804, ext. 327 what she needed of them. Behind her came a Sister with two steins of beer. Blessed and families. Pauline proceeded to give the gentlemen the beer and convinced them to shake Taking place at Lancaster Or Deb Waters hands in order to end the argument. Glad to have the refreshing beverage, they Catholic High School and nearby [email protected] stopped their unkind words. Clipper Magazine Stadium July Please visit our website 1 In the Bull of Indiction of the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy Pope Francis de- 30-31, the overnight, outdoor pil- for more information: clares: “Mercy is not only seen in the action of the Father,” as seen in the parable of grimage experience will mirror www.hbgdiocese.org/wydstateside the Prodigal Son, but it is a “criterion for ascertaining who His true children are.” the events taking place at World Do we really understand that when we show mercy to others, or bring others to Youth Day in Krakow, Poland. discover mercy on their own, we most resemble God? Or better, do we truly fathom WYD Stateside will correspond with the vigil and concluding Eucharistic cel- the amazing reality that we are called to extend mercy to others because we, our- ebration presided over by Pope Francis in Krakow. In Lancaster, pilgrims will selves, have been given mercy by God? Is this not part of the Our Father: “Forgive be connected to those in Poland – including our own diocesan contingent with us as we forgive those who trespass against us?” How many of us say, “Don’t you Bishop Ronald Gainer – through prayer, fellowship, Holy Mass, the Sacrament know what he/she did to me? There is no way I could forgive that!” To which I of Reconciliation, music and celebration to fully experience the spirit of World would say, “Then pray for the grace to bring you the ability to forgive them.” Youth Day. The tenets of mercy and forgiveness are key mindsets for all human beings to It will be headlined by emcee Jackie Francois Angel, a traveling speaker, sing- enflesh. Pope Francis instructs in his Bull, “… Pardon is the instrument placed er/songwriter, and worship leader from Orange County, Calif. into our fragile hands to attain serenity of heart. To let go of anger, wrath, vio- Special guests will include Ceili Rain, a pop-rock band with Celtic flavor and uplifting messages, and local Christian rock and worship musician Sean Patrick lence, and revenge are necessary conditions to living joyfully. Let us therefore heed Malloy. the Apostle’s exhortation: ‘Do not let the sun go down on your anger’ (Eph 4:26). The gates to WYD Stateside will open at Lancaster Catholic on Saturday Above all, let us listen to the words of Jesus who made mercy an ideal of life and morning, July 30. The opening liturgy will be celebrated at 2 p.m., followed by a criterion for the credibility of our faith: ‘Blessed are the merciful, for they shall catechesis, the Ceili Rain concert and a Holy Hour. Adoration, Confessions and obtain mercy’ (Mt 5:7)” (p. 9) the pilgrimage tent will be available throughout the evening. Holding on to non-forgiveness robs us of the energy we need to complete the The pilgrimage tent will immerse pilgrims in Krakow. They will learn about mission that God has called us to fulfill. Offering forgiveness and mercy to our- the life of St. John Paul II, and experience exhibits like walking paths of the Lu- selves and others takes courage because it does not mean forgetting an offense, or minous Mysteries of the Rosary and the Divine Mercy Chaplet. Here, pilgrims letting someone off “the hook.” It means finding the glory or the grace in offense. can also connect to their diocesan counterparts at international World Youth Day All of us can agree that crucifixion is indeed a hideous action. Yet, after the resur- in Poland via photos, videos and messages on social media. rection, Jesus’ glorified body still had wounds. These were, however, proofs of His During an outdoor, overnight vigil, attendees will sleep on the field at Lan- great love. caster Catholic’s stadium. On the morning on July 31, they will make a 1.5 I can hear some of you whisper, “Wow!” I am sure that this was the same reaction mile walk, escorted by the Lancaster City Mounted Police, to Clipper Magazine when a woman who was close to six feet who spoke only German extended a stein Stadium. Here, they will witness the Stations of the Cross presented around the of beer to the gentlemen who were fighting. baseball field’s warning track, and enjoy a concert by Jackie Francois Angel 1 http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/apost_letters/documents/papa- prior to the closing liturgy celebrated by Bishop Edward Malesic of Greensburg francesco_bolla_20150411_misericordiae-vultus.html at 2 p.m. (Sister of Christian Charity, Geralyn Schmidt, is the Wide Area Network Coordi- Plans are currently underway to share Pope Francis’ World Youth Day mes- nator at the Diocese of Harrisburg and the Director of Formation for Wives in the sage from Krakow to the pilgrims in Lancaster. High school youth must register with a youth group for the stateside event. Diaconate Program. An educator for 29 years, she is responsible for Professional Young adults and families can register independent of a youth group. Development Programs for every age learner. Through her presentations, she chal- Registration is $175 per person through April 30; $190 per person thereafter lenges her audiences to be the individual God has called them to be.) until the deadline of May 31. Two-day tickets include access to all of the weekend’s events, four meal vouchers (two lunches, one breakfast and one dinner), and a pilgrim pack with a souvenir bottle, a vigil candle, prayer resources and a Rosary. The Sunday-only tickets are $50 and include admission to the events at Clipper Magazine Stadium, a meal voucher for lunch, a pilgrim pack and souvenir bot- atholicWitness tle, and prayer resources. C For more information, to register, and to learn about policies regarding secu- The Newspaper of the Diocese of Harrisburg rity, medical staffing, inclement weather and dress codes, visit: Telephone The Catholic Witness http://www.hbgdiocese.org/world-youth-day-stateside/ 717-657-4804 ext. 201 OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF HARRISBURG A video of the webinar is available at www.hbgdiocese.org. FAX Most Rev. Ronald W. Gainer: Publisher 717-657-7673 Questions about World Youth Day Stateside can be directed to Deb Waters at Email: [email protected] Jennifer Reed: Managing Editor [email protected] or Virginia Pereira at [email protected]. Website: www.hbgdiocese.org Staff “This event will be 26 hours of prayer, praise, encounter and pilgrimage right Chris Heisey: Photojournalist here in the Diocese of Harrisburg,” said Mrs. Waters, “to bring our domestic Yearly Subscriptions: Emily M. Albert: Photojournalist $8.17 per family, derived from Church together to celebrate with the international Church!” Susan Huntsberger: diocesan revenues from the Circulation Coordinator and Administrative Assistant parishes. Other subscriptions: $12.00 The Catholic Witness (ISSN 0008-8447, USPS 557 120) is published biweekly Correction except Christmas/New Year and July by the Harrisburg Catholic Publishing Association, Moving? Send us the address label 4800 Union Deposit Road, Harrisburg, PA 17111 3710. Periodicals postage paid at The caption for the place winners of the Diocesan Spelling Bee in the April from The Catholic Witness plus Harrisburg, PA. your NEW address including zip 1, 2016, edition of The Catholic Witness incorrectly identified the grade code +4. Please allow three weeks POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: of third-place finisher Daniel Siahaan. Daniel is a fourth-grader at Corpus for the change. The Catholic Witness, 4800 Union Deposit Road, Harrisburg, PA 17111-3710. Christi School in Chambersburg. We apologize for the error. The April 15, 2016 • Catholic Witness - 5 Family

Continued from 1 Much of the document is tied to the theme of God’s mercy, including Pope Francis’ discussion of wel- coming the vulnerable. “Dedication and concern shown to migrants and to persons with special needs alike is a sign of the Spirit,” he wrote. Both are “a test of our commitment to show mercy in welcoming others and to help the vulnerable to be fully a part of our communities.” The synod issues that garnered the most headlines revolved around the question of Communion for the divorced and civilly remarried, as well as Catholic attitudes toward homosexuality. “In no way must the Church desist from proposing the full ideal of marriage, God’s plan in all its gran- deur,” Pope Francis said. He repeated his and the synod’s insistence that the Church cannot consider same-sex unions to be a mar- riage, but also insisted, “every person, regardless of sexual orientation, ought to be respected in his or her dignity.” On the question of families experiencing difficul- ties, separation or even divorce and remarriage, Pope Francis said responses to the questionnaires sent around the world before the synod “showed that most people in difficult or critical situations do not seek pastoral assistance, since they do not find it sympa- CNS/NANCY PHELAN WIECHEC A family prays after arriving for Sunday Mass in 2011 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Alexandria, Va. Pope thetic, realistic or concerned for individual cases.” Francis’ postsynodal apostolic exhortation on the family, Amoris Laetitia (“The Joy of Love”), is the concluding The responses, he wrote, call on the Church “to try document of the 2014 and 2015 synods of bishops on the family. to approach marriage crises with greater sensitivity to their burden of hurt and anxiety.” spouse who was abandoned versus being the one who Holy Spirit sows in the midst of human weakness, a Particularly in ministry to divorced and civilly re- left – makes it unwise to issue “a new set of general mother who, while clearly expressing her objective married Catholics, Pope Francis said, pastors must rules, canonical in nature and applicable to all cases,” teaching, always does what good she can, even if in help each couple look at their actions and circum- the pope wrote. Quoting St. John Paul II, he said, the process, her shoes get soiled by the mud of the stances, recognize their share of responsibility for “‘since the degree of responsibility is not equal in all street.” the breakup of their marriage, acknowledge Church cases,’ the consequences or effects of a rule need not Turning to those who believe allowing divorced teaching that marriage is indissoluble and prayerfully necessarily always be the same.” and remarried Catholics to receive Communion wa- discern what God is calling them to. Pope Francis used the document’s footnotes to ters down Church teaching on the indissolubility of Pope Francis said it would be a “grave danger” to specify that the consequences include whether or not marriage, the pope said, “we put so many conditions give people the impression that “any priest can quick- the couple might eventually be able to receive Com- on mercy that we empty it of its concrete meaning ly grant ‘exceptions’ or that some people can obtain munion: “This is also the case with regard to sacra- and real significance. That is the worst way of water- sacramental privileges in exchange for favors.” mental discipline, since discernment can recognize ing down the Gospel.” At the same time, he insisted, “the way of the that in a particular situation no grave fault exists,” he In many respects, Pope Francis wrote, Church Church is not to condemn anyone forever; it is to wrote. Those who are in a state of serious sin are not members themselves have presented and promoted pour out the balm of God’s mercy on all those who to receive Communion. such a dreary picture of married life that many people ask for it with a sincere heart.” Another footnote commented on the Church’s re- want nothing to do with it even though they dream of Divorced and civilly remarried couples, especially quest that remarried couples who had not received an a love that will last a lifetime and be faithful. those with children, must be welcomed in Catholic annulment and who want to receive the sacraments “We have long thought that simply by stressing parishes and supported in efforts to raise their chil- forgo sexual relations. “In such situations, many doctrinal, bioethical and moral issues, without en- dren in the faith. people, knowing and accepting the possibility of liv- couraging openness to grace, we were providing suf- Generally, without an annulment of their sacra- ing ‘as brothers and sisters’ which the Church offers ficient support to families, strengthening the marriage mental marriage, such a couple would not be able to them, point out that if certain expressions of intimacy bond and giving meaning to marital life,” he wrote. receive Communion or absolution of their sins un- are lacking, ‘it often happens that faithfulness is en- “We find it difficult to present marriage more as a dy- less they promised to live as “brother and sister.” But dangered and the good of the children suffers,’” he namic path to personal development and fulfillment every situation is different, the pope said, which is wrote. than as a lifelong burden. why the Church does not need new rules, but a new Pope Francis wrote that he understood those “who “We also find it hard to make room for the con- commitment on the part of pastors to provide spiri- prefer a more rigorous pastoral care which leaves no sciences of the faithful, who very often respond as tual guidance and assistance with discernment. room for confusion. But I sincerely believe that Jesus best they can to the Gospel amid their limitations, and The diversity of situations – for example, that of a wants a Church attentive to the goodness which the are capable of carrying out their own discernment in complex situations,” the pope wrote. Yet, “we have been called to form consciences, not to replace them.” The role of an individual’s conscience made fre- quent appearances in the document, not only regard- ing the situation of those who may determine their new union is best for their family, but also regarding decisions over how many children to have. Pope Francis praised Blessed Paul VI’s encyclical Humanae Vitae, which insisted every sexual act in a marriage must be open to the possibility of preg- nancy, and included a large section reiterating what has become known as St. John Paul II’s “Theology of the Body.” The saintly pope definitively opposed an old idea that considered “the erotic dimension of love simply as a permissible evil or a burden to be tolerated for the good of the family,” Pope Francis said. “Rather, it must be seen as gift from God that enriches the rela- tionship of the spouses.” Pope Francis called for Church leaders to ensure more married couples are involved as leaders in de- signing and carrying out pastoral programs for fami- lies. Their witness is key, he said. “Marital love is not defended primarily by present- ing indissolubility as a duty, or by repeating doctrine, but by helping it to grow ever stronger under the im- pulse of grace,” he said. “A love that fails to grow is at risk. Growth can only occur if we respond to God’s CNS/THERESA LAURENCE, TENNESSEE REGISTER grace through constant acts of love, acts of kindness A U.S. youth poses in 2010 with his adopted brothers in Tennessee. Pope Francis’ postsynodal apostolic that become ever more frequent, intense, generous, exhortation on the family released April 8. tender and cheerful.” The 6 - Catholic Witness • April 15, 2016 As Earth Day Approaches, Let’s Pause on Pope Francis’ Concern for the Environment

By Emily M. Albert by the domino effect of climate change. Pope The Catholic Witness A Prayer for Our Earth Francis notes, “Its worst impact will probably be felt by developing countries in coming de- I went through several awkward stages as All-powerful God, you are present in the whole universe cades. Many of the poor live in areas particu- a child. One that I recall most was wanting and in the smallest of your creatures. larly affected by phenomena related to warm- to save the Earth. Some of you may recall a You embrace with your tenderness all that exists. ing, and their means of subsistence are largely television program called Captain Planet, not Pour out upon us the power of your love, dependent on natural reserves and ecosystemic to be confused with Captain America. Captain that we may protect life and beauty. services such as agriculture, fishing and for- Planet was a super hero of the early to mid 90s Fill us with peace, that we may live estry.” He continues, “For example, changes that would appear after four kids placed magic as brothers and sisters, harming no one. in climate, to which animals and plants cannot rings together: earth, fire, wind, and water. I O God of the poor, adapt, lead them to migrate; this in turn affects often pretended the mood ring from the bub- help us to rescue the abandoned and forgotten of this earth, the livelihood of the poor, who are then forced blegum machine was my magic ring, secretly so precious in your eyes. to leave their homes, with great uncertainty for wishing I too had powers to save the Earth. Bring healing to our lives, their future and that of their children.” I’ve watched through the years as conve- that we may protect the world and not prey on it, “There has been a tragic rise in the number nience and laziness have made us a consum- that we may sow beauty, not pollution and destruction. of migrants seeking to flee from the growing able and disposable society. We consume and Touch the hearts poverty caused by environmental degradation. throw out to-go coffee cups, fast food wrap- of those who look only for gain They are not recognized by international con- pers, batteries for all our electronics, plas- at the expense of the poor and the earth. ventions as refugees; they bear the loss of the tic grocery bags, plastic water bottles, plastic Teach us to discover the worth of each thing, lives they have left behind, without enjoying covers – almost everything we purchase. I’m to be filled with awe and contemplation, any legal protection whatsoever. Sadly, there amazed by how much packaging it takes to sell to recognize that we are profoundly united is a widespread indifference to such suffering, a toothbrush or a razor. with every creature which is even now taking place throughout our Some try their best to separate the recycla- as we journey towards your infinite light. world.” bles from garbage, others even compost food We thank you for being with us each day. As Earth Day approaches, April 22, I urge scraps. But even with our greatest efforts we Encourage us, we pray, in our struggle each of us to be aware of our Holy Father’s are still polluting our oceans with plastic, we for justice, love and peace. plea for environmental change. Small sacri- are still destroying natural habitats, we are From Encyclical, Laudato Sí, 2015 fices in our daily routine can make a lasting over-consuming the Earth. difference. Carpool to work, use a reusable In his encyclical Laudato Si’ On Care For water bottle, bring your own cloth reusable Our Common Home, Pope Francis explains, “In a license to carrying on with our present lifestyles bag to the grocery store, and if you forget it in the some countries, there are positive examples of en- and models of production and consumption. This is car, walk back out for it. Bring plastic bags to the vironmental improvement: rivers, polluted for de- the way human beings contrive to feed their self- grocery store for recycling. Separate your trash and cades, have been cleaned up; native woodlands destructive vices: trying not to see them, trying not consider composting food scraps. Rain barrels are have been restored; landscapes have been beautified to acknowledge them, delaying the important deci- a great solution for watering plants in the summer thanks to environmental renewal projects; beautiful sions and pretending that nothing will happen.” and newspaper can be used as a deterrent for weeds buildings have been erected; advances have been This last sentence struck me in my gut. Our Holy made in the production of non-polluting energy and Father is absolutely right. We aren’t thinking of our instead of heavy chemicals. I know these look like in the improvement of public transportation. These children, or their children or anywhere into the fu- minuscule requests and it is easy to think one person achievements do not solve global problems, but they ture; we are thinking ‘How does this affect me to- can’t make a difference, but if each of us make little do show that men and women are still capable of day?’ And since we can’t see the real damage, the changes, we will create one large change. intervening positively.” future damage, we continue with our habits. Even Pope Francis has asked us to “come together to Pope Francis continues in this chapter of his en- though if we really look hard, if we take our blind- take charge of this home which has been entrusted to cyclical, explaining man’s lack of interest or dedi- fold off, we can see big enough changes that should us, knowing that all the good which exists here will cation to what is a real problem in need of years of scare us. Just in our country, look at how the drought changes from our lifestyles. be taken up into the heavenly feast. In union with all in California continues, yet in the glamorized parts creatures, we journey through this land seeking God, “As often occurs in periods of deep crisis which of Los Angeles, people are willing to pay expensive for ‘if the world has a beginning and if it has been require bold decisions, we are tempted to think that fines just so they can continue to water their yards what is happening is not entirely clear.” In this line, to keep them green. Meanwhile cattle and produce created, we must enquire who gave it this beginning, Pope Francis caused me to pause and reflect on our farmers are suffering to keep their farms running. and who was its Creator.’ (Basil the Great, Hom. in stance on global warming. Say what you will about And if we look even further into the world, you Hexaemeron, I2,6:PG29,8.) Let us sing as we go. it; some believe it while others see conspiracy, but will find many countries without clean drinking May our struggles and our concern for this planet let’s all try to agree that something is happening! water and normal ways of sustaining life impacted never take away the joy of our hope.” He continues, “Superficially, apart from a few ob- vious signs of pollution and deterioration, things do Pope Francis’ Encyclical can be viewed and read at http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/ not look that serious, and the planet could continue encyclicals/documents/papa-francesco_20150524_enciclica-laudato-si.html as it is for some time. Such evasiveness serves as

CNS/JAIME AVALOS, EPA Pope Francis emphasized protection for the environment and the need to mitigate climate change in his second encyclical, Laudato Sí, released in June of 2015. In this April 25, 2015, file photo, thousands of dead fish are seen at Centla beach in the state of Tabasco, Mexico. The April 15, 2016 • Catholic Witness - 7 ‘If the Worst Comes to the World’ By Chris Heisey weary northern populace blamed Lin- The Catholic Witness coln for the carnage it seemed would never end. When death ended in the Ford’s Theatre rests in the heart of sleepy town of Appomattox in southern Washington, D.C., where Tenth and F Virginia, Lincoln became a hero soon Streets bisect about a half mile from the to be made American martyr. White House. It’s an imposing struc- Some 20 years after that rainy night ture that today still is a house of drama when Lincoln was shot, an African- where great actors share their stage tal- American teacher was walking home ents to adoring audiences. No matter from his inner city school in Wash- how great the play, nothing will ever ington as he did every day past Ford’s surpass the dramatic tragedy there oc- Theatre. John Washington revered Lin- curred there on Good coln for his part in strik- Friday, April 14, 1865. ing at the South’s slave We have had other power that ensnared 3.9 presidents assassinated million blacks in bondage in cold blood in our in the 19th Century. As he early history. Yet do we walked by the theatre, he remember where Presi- would always pick up the dent Garfield was mor- pace, anxious to pass by tally wounded in 1881 the place of horrors, yet in Washington, or the still pay homage to his hero. Legend had it that site where President Ford’s Theatre, April 1865. McKinley was killed Booth’s ghost prowled by a point blank shot in the back alley with his But killing Lincoln was not the plan. met many southern sympathizers as he in Buffalo in 1901? eyes fanatically aglow, Kidnapping him was. A caught Lincoln handled mail in a secession-supporting The answer probably John Surratt, trying to mount his get- can be ransomed for Confederate sol- part of Maryland, soon became a Con- lies that we remember circa 1868. away horse to flee the diers languishing in cold, damp North- federate spy and agent. He was intro- Ford’s Theatre is that scene. As a young boy, ern prison camps that dotted New York duced to Booth by Dr. Samuel Mudd, a the slain president was Abraham Lin- John Washington had had several vivid and Ohio. And Lincoln was vulnerable country, Catholic physician who most coln. Moreover, do we really faintly nightmares of Booth trying to kill the to capture as he traveled to and from likely knew of the Confederate govern- fathom who the assassins were in these boy with his dagger. One time, the boy hospitals, the War Department and his ment’s want to kidnap Lincoln and get other grisly presidential murders? But accidently hung himself with his blan- summer home just outside the city with him to Richmond as a prize of war. When the March 17th attempt failed seared in our nation’s collective memo- kets from the rafter of his bedroom as little or no police protection. It was al- – and it failed namely because Lincoln ry, we do know that it was John Wilkes he tried to escape the evil reoccurring most as if Lincoln had a death wish. dream. If not for his grandma’s quick Never could Booth and his accom- changed his plans late to honor an In- Booth who fired a .44 caliber ball from plice friends time Lincoln’s travels cor- diana Regiment returning from the a Derringer pistol into Lincoln’s brain. actions of cutting him down, it would have been another senseless death as- rectly to pull of the kidnap heist, though front – John Surratt lost faith in any of It is Lincoln who makes us remember. Booth’s concocted schemes. Given that sociated with the scheme to kill a presi- they attempted a couple of times, with By the time of the surrender of Rob- Booth was frequenting John’s mother, dent. the last being on St. Patrick’s Day, ert E. Lee’s vaunted Confederate Army 1865. When Lee surrendered, the aim Mary Surratt’s boarding house near Why did Booth kill Lincoln? Ford’s Theatre, it was becoming very of Northern Virginia on Palm Sunday John Wilkes Booth was a 29-year-old turned to political murder. Most of at Appomattox Court House six days Booth’s dozen or so conspirators sud- difficult for John to untangle his ties actor born into a family of famous ac- with a soon-to-be-assassin. prior to that Good Friday, Lincoln had tors. Often portrayed as an insane luna- denly got cold feet knowing that killing Lincoln would be viewed as a heinous A month later when Booth killed become a Northern national hero for tic in history, there’s more evidence that crime rather than an act of war. Booth’s Lincoln at Ford’s Theatre, John Surratt winning a Civil War that had spanned Booth was a rabid racist who profound- was in Elmira, New York, where a large five Aprils. Forgotten was the Election oft intoxicated mind saw it differently. ly detested equality of the races and One of Booth’s conspirators was Confederate prisoner of war camp was of 1864, where Lincoln beat one of his Lincoln’s role in seeking a “new birth of John Surratt, a devout Catholic, who located. Booth had hatched the plot to former generals, George McClellan, freedom.” Booth, however, was more was attending Saint Charles College kill Lincoln just hours before the as- 221-21 in electoral votes for an appar- alcoholic than mad, and though he was in Maryland when the war erupted in sassination when he serendipitously ent landslide. Yet, Lincoln only won no genius, he was shrewd, calculating 1861. In 1862, he left school when his learned that Lincoln was planning last Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York by and dastardly in planning Lincoln’s de- alcoholic father died, and he took over minute to attend the English comedy less than one percent in each crucial mise. “My thoughts be bloody,” he told his dad’s job as postmaster in Surrat- farce Our American Cousin at the the- state. Not only was North and South a family member a few weeks prior to tsville, Maryland, some 25 miles south atre that night. divided in bitter partisan war, the war- using his trigger finger. of Washington. By 1864, John, who Booth asked a naïve Mary Surratt to transport a bag of guns and supplies to Dr. Mudd’s house that afternoon, and it is plausible that John’s mother never realized that she was implicating her- self and her family in one of the most notorious crimes in American history. When John heard on April 15 that Booth had killed Lincoln, he panicked and fled New York to Canada, where many Confederate agents were seeking safe haven from a northern government hell bent on retribution. On a sweltering July 7, 1865, John was still in Canada when his mother was hanged after a military tribunal convicted her of conspiring with Booth to kill the president. While it seems Mary had to know her son and Booth were plotting Lincoln’s capture as a war measure, it appears unbelievable that Mary knew Booth would kill Lin- coln in cold blood sitting aside his wife at Ford’s Theatre in front of a thousand patrons. Days before she would become the first woman hanged in this country Mrs. Surratt wished that she could see her son one last time before her execu- tion. The priests, Fathers Walter and Wigget, devoted family friends, told Mary that it was impossible, as John John Wilkes Booth kills Lincoln in the Presidential Box at Ford’s Theatre. Joining the Lincolns that fateful evening were army would be captured and hanged was officer Henry Rathbone, far left, and his fiancee Clara Harris. Booth, after shooting Lincoln, stabbed Rathbone savagely well. But the irony is, John could have in the arm before leaping from the box onto the stage. Eighteen years later, just a few days before Christmas, Rathbone exonerated his mother while implicat- mortally stabbed his wife, Clara, in the heart with a dagger as their three small children witnessed the violence. Rathbone ing himself in the capture plot. would spend the rest of his life in Hindesheim Asylum for the Criminally Insane in Hanover, Germany, where he lived another 28 years, telling doctors often that he feared demons were chasing him. More LINCOLN, page 16 The 8 - Catholic Witness • April 15, 2016 Historic St. Mary’s in Lancaster Marks 275th While Breaking Ground for Future

CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS Bishop Ronald Gainer celebrates the Mass at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Lancaster for the parish’s 275th anniversary Mass on April 9. Joining him at the altar are, from left, Father Leo Goodman, pastor; Deacon Manuel Velazquez, Father Donald Bender, parochial vicar at St. Patrick Parish in Carlisle, who returned to the Catholic Church through Historic St. Mary’s Parish; Father Allan Wolfe, pastor of St. Joseph and San Juan Bautista Parishes in Lancaster; and Father Bernardo Pistone, former pastor of St. Mary’s and now retired from active ministry.

By Jen Reed St. Mary’s is also kicking off its Enduring Legacy reception at the Lancaster County Convention Center. The Catholic Witness Project with an initial phase that involves improving ac- Roots in ‘Lancaster Town’ cessibility to the church nave through handicap acces- Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish is home he Diocese of Harrisburg lays claim to two of the sible ramps from the street level to the church plaza, and to more than 3,000 parishioners, a far cry from the sum Tfour oldest Catholic parishes in the United States: from the plaza to the church’s main entrance. According Sacred Heart of Jesus in Conewago, established in 1730, to Father Leo Goodman, pastor, future plans in the En- total of all of the Catholics who lived in the entire county and Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Lancast- during Legacy Project will include a new social space at in the mid 1700s. St. Mary’s first pastors counted 212 er, founded in 1741. Resurrection School and the renovation of classrooms. German Catholics and 49 Irish Catholics back then. This year, Historic St. Mary’s, as it is fondly called, “This is a celebration of our current faith community The parish’s origins date back to June of 1741, when is marking its 275th anniversary in the Red Rose City in and those people of faith before us, so that we can unite two German-speaking Jesuit priests from Maryland trav- ways that remember the past and look with faith to the our commitment to theirs,” Father Goodman said. “We eled to what was then known as Lancaster Town. Seeing future. look back with gratitude and forward with commitment.” the need to tend to the Catholics of the area, the priests There’s much to celebrate. This mother church for sev- St. Mary’s parishioners marked the momentous oc- built a log chapel within two years of their arrival. It be- eral early missions in the diocese shares a spiritual bond casion on April 9 with an anniversary Mass celebrated came the fourth Catholic congregation in the nation, be- with the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, and by Bishop Ronald Gainer, who then the led the ground- hind St. Joseph’s Chapel in Philadelphia, Sacred Heart in this year is one of five churches designated as pilgrimage breaking ceremony for the start of the Enduring Legacy Conewago, Adams County, and Goshenhoppen in Berks sites during the Year of Mercy celebration in the diocese. Project. Parishioners continued the celebration during a County.

Against the backdrop of a stained-glass window, Father Leo Goodman, pastor of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in Lancaster, delivers the homily for the 275th anniversary Mass. The church’s Bishop Ronald Gainer receives the gifts from Tina Skubon, left, her daughter Lauren Booth, and Lauren’s memorial stained-glass windows were installed in the daughter Faith Booth during the parish’s anniversary Mass on April 9. late 1800s. The April 15, 2016 • Catholic Witness - 9

Young Michael Corrigan looks on as his uncle, Andrew Ellis, receives the Precious Blood during the parish’s 275th anniversary Mass.

Michael Bitts plays the organ as the parish choir lends their musical talents to the celebration of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s 275th anniversary. According to parish history, St. Mary’s was origi- Over the remaining decades, several restoration nally called the Mission of St. John Nepomucene, and restoration projects have taken place to main- although there’s no certainty as to when the name tain the architectural and visual beauty of the his- change occurred. toric church, a centerpiece of the city of Lancaster. The initial chapel, built by Father William Wap- A Welcoming Place of Worship peler, was destroyed by fire in 1760, and the Catho- In conjunction with the Diocese of Harrisburg’s lic community of German and Irish immigrants set special Marian Year, which took place from Oc- out to build a stone church, which was completed in tober 2009-2010, Assumption of the Blessed Vir- 1762. Parish tradition tells the story that the women gin Mary Church was granted a special spiritual of the parish mixed the mortar while the men built bond to the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major in the church with stones gathered from nearby fields. Rome. The diocese’s bishop at the time, Bishop With German-speaking and Irish-speaking Catho- Kevin C. Rhoades, had requested the privilege of lics in the congregation, language differences posed the bond following an invitation by the archpriest a problem. While there were more Germans than of the papal basilica to bishops around the world. Irish in the county when the parish was established The bond was granted in Rome on Feb. 5, the Irish immigrants soon came to outnumber their 2009. At the time, only 80 Marian shrines around counterparts. In 1849, the parishioners petitioned the world shared the privilege. Bishop Francis Kenrick of Philadelphia for a Ger- The spiritual bond honored St. Mary’s Church man parish, and thus St. Joseph’s was established as a special place of pilgrimage, and offered the and opened in 1850. privilege of a Plenary Indulgence for each mem- As the number of Irish immigrants continued to ber of the faithful who made a pilgrimage to the increase, it became necessary for St. Mary’s to build church under certain prescribed conditions. a larger church. Its cornerstone was laid by Bishop The Basilica of St. Mary Major is the largest John Neumann of Philadelphia on the Feast of the church in Rome dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Assumption, August 15, 1852. Fifteen years later, a Mary. It is one of the four great papal basilicas, fire nearly destroyed the church, which underwent along with St. Peter, St. Paul Outside the Walls extensive reconstruction and restoration before it and St. John Lateran. Its construction was in- was rededicated on May 3, 1868, the year that the spired by the Council of Ephesus in 431, which Diocese of Harrisburg was established. proclaimed Mary as the Mother of God. In 1881, construction of the parish’s convent Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church and school building was begun. That same decade opens its doors in this Year of Mercy as one of saw many of the developments that give Historic five special sites of pilgrimage in the diocese. A St. Mary’s Church most of its current appearance, parish historian is available to speak to groups including its Gothic arches, side chapels patterned that wish to visit. after St. Peter’s in Rome, the large stained-glass “Since the time that I arrived here at St. Mary’s, windows that flank the sanctuary, and the historic I’ve always found our parish to be an incredibly paintings by Filippo Costaggini: “The Assumption welcoming and vibrant place where a lot of trav- of the Blessed Virgin Mary,” “The Annunciation,” EMILY M. ALBERT, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS elers will come,” Father Goodman had told The and “The Flight Into Egypt.” The Door of Mercy at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Witness in an interview on the occasion A decade-long project commenced in 1888 to in- Church, located at 119 South Prince Street in Lancaster. of the granting of the spiritual bond with the Ba- stall the church’s memorial stained-glass windows, The church is one of five pilgrimage sites designated in the silica of St. Mary Major statues and hand-painted Stations of the Cross. diocese during this Year of Mercy. His words are just as fitting today as the church opens its doors during the Year of Mercy and cel- ebrates a momentous anni- versary. “My experience with the church is that while each piece of art is a little spiritual reflection itself, there’s just a sense of the church being a holy place. You come into this space and the sense of peace and God’s presence is over- whelming.” (For information about Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church and arranging to make a pil- grimage there, visit www. stmaryslancaster.org or call 717-392-2578.)

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Lancaster shares a spiritual bond to the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, the largest church in Rome dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The spiritual bond was granted on Feb. 5, 2009, in advance of the diocese’s Marian Year, celebrated October 2009-2010. The 10 - Catholic Witness • April 15, 2016 Diocesan Council of Catholic Women’s Convention Calls Forth Sowers of Hope for Humanity

By Jen Reed Newly-elected offers of the Harrisburg Diocesan The Catholic Witness Council of Catholic Women light candles during an installation ceremony at the conclusion A diocesan native who recently spent of Mass, celebrated by Bishop Ronald Gainer four weeks working for those displaced and concelebrated by a number of priests of the by ISIS in the Middle East told the at- diocese. From left are Anita Bottiger, Treasurer; tendees at this year’s convention of the Alycia Laureti, Secretary; Brenda Wolf, Vice Harrisburg Diocesan Council of Catholic President; and Marge Schmader, President. Women (HDCCW) that, through small They will serve through 2018. acts of prayer, advocacy and charity, they CHRIS HEISEY, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS can be “sowers of hope” for the millions of refugees who have been uprooted dur- ing this humanitarian crisis. Cheryl Mrazik, a graduate of St. Mar- garet Mary School and Bishop McDe- vitt High School in Harrisburg, is the Relationship Manager in the Northeast/ Mid-Atlantic Region for Catholic Relief Services (CRS), the official humanitarian agency of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. She served as the keynote speaker for the 91st annual HDCCW Convention, hosted by the Seton District on April 11 at the Cardinal Keeler Center in Harris- burg. Its theme was “Sowers of Hope: Opening Our Hearts.” “Watching reports on what is going on in the Middle East, it is easy to feel very overwhelmed and probably fearful about what we see in the news. We can feel hopeless about the situation. Yet, in this Easter season, mies can be supported while refugees purchase food. we are called to really embrace who we are and be sowers “One of the primary psychosocial interventions you can of hope, opening our hearts to others,” Ms. Mrazik told the provide for people who have experienced trauma and dis- more than 300 women in attendance. placement is a sense of normalcy and routine,” Ms. Mra- During a short-term assignment in the Middle East in zik remarked, and so CRS has worked to support students February and March, she spent three weeks in Iraq and one at the primary, secondary and collegiate levels, and offer week in Turkey, assisting refugees there. some meaningful work programs for adults. Catholic Relief Services each year serves more than 100 While in Iraq, Ms. Mrazik visited with a group of Do- million people in 100 countries around the world, working minican Sisters at their convent and school in Erbil. The to save lives in natural and man-made crises, addressing Sisters had previously lived in a town near Mozul, and the root causes of poverty, promoting the dignity of human had been among the last to leave during the ISIS takeover. life, and building just and peaceful societies. When they arrived in Erbil, they set out to work, establish- Since the ISIS takeover began in 2014, more than 3.2 ing their school for displaced children. million people have been uprooted, and more than half of The Dominican Sisters are one of many examples of them are children, Ms. Mrazik noted. hope in the humanitarian crisis, Ms. Mrazik offered. CRS is working in Iraq to assist the Iraqi and Syrian ref- She urged the conference attendees to pray, noting that ugees who have fled to areas like Dohuk, Erbil and Kirkuk. the refugees she encountered appreciate that they are not Here, families live in abandoned warehouses, under high- forgotten in the prayers of the faithful. She also called on way overpasses or in tent camps. Sometimes they find the women to continue to learn about the refugee situation, shelter in abandoned trailers, where entire families share and read about their stories of hope, and to advocate for one room. them by sharing their stories with others, and by support- CRS workers have worked there to establish or enroll ing the refugees who have been relocated in their parishes Harrisburg native Cheryl Mrazik, Relationship children in schools. They assist with shelter by winteriz- Manager in the Northeast/Mid-Atlantic Region and in the diocese. She also encouraged monetary dona- ing buildings, creating handicap accessible entrances and for Catholic Relief Services, offers a keynote tions to CRS, so that they can continue their humanitarian living quarters, and ensuring that buildings are safe. They address about her recent experience with the efforts for those in dire need. also offer cash grants and vouchers so that the local econo- humanitarian crisis in the Middle East. Ms. Mrazik shared a poignant story about paintings in that school when she offered ways in which the faithful can be “sowers of A cutout of Pope Francis greets women as they gather for the hope” for the refugees. 91st convention of the Harrisburg Diocesan Council of Catholic In the school that the Sisters opened Women at the Cardinal Keeler Center in Harrisburg April 11. were many pieces of artwork. Among them were two paintings in the princi- pal’s office, created by a woman who had been uprooted from her home. “The first painting had beautiful flow- ers and greens, and it represented her life so full of beauty and color, before the dis- placement. The second painting lacked the flowers and beautiful colors, and had only some life to it. This painting repre- sented her life now,” Ms. Mrazik said. “Hopefully there will be a third paint- ing.” “Our challenge as Easter people of hope is to be part of painting that third picture with the people of Iraq and Syria that looks much like the first – of a vi- brant and beautiful life,” she said. “Let us open our hearts and be the sowers of hope that we are called to be.” (Learn more about the work of CRS and the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East at www.crs.org. Learn more about the work and events of the Harrisburg Diocesan Council of Catholic Women by contacting your parish CCW president, or by visiting http://hdccw.webs.com.) The April 15, 2016 • Catholic Witness - 11 Voters’ Guide Pennsylvania Primary 2016

Primary Election Day is April 26, 2016 sylvania Catholic Conference surveyed candidates for At- The Catholic Witness presents here a Voters’ Guide in torney General, Auditor General, State Treasurer and Unit- anticipation of the April 26 Primary Election. The ques- ed States Senate. The names of those who responded are tions were prepared by the Pennsylvania Catholic Con- printed in bold in the candidate list; survey questions and ference, the public affairs agency of the Pennsylvania responses follow. Catholic bishops. Questionnaires were mailed by The Only those candidates who have contested races were Catholic Witness to candidates for Congress and Penn- surveyed. sylvania Senate and House of Representatives whose districts are within the The Catholic Witness and the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference neither sup- Diocese of Harrisburg to give them an opportunity to participate. The Penn- port nor oppose any candidate.

Any politics of human dignity must seriously address issues of racism, pov- the human person as the ‘temple of the Holy Spirit’ -- the living house of God erty, hunger, employment, education, housing, and health care. Therefore, -- then these latter issues fall logically into place as the crossbeams and walls Catholics should eagerly involve themselves as advocates for the weak and of that house. All direct attacks on innocent human life, such as abortion and marginalized in all these areas. But being ‘right’ in such matters can never ex- euthanasia, strike at the house’s foundation. These directly and immediately cuse a wrong choice regarding direct attacks on innocent human life. Indeed, violate the human person’s most fundamental right – the right to life. the failure to protect and defend life in its most vulnerable stages renders – From Living the Gospel of Life, suspect any claims to the ‘rightness’ of positions in other matters affecting No. 22 with original emphasis the poorest and least powerful of the human community. If we understand (Pastoral Statement, U.S. Catholic Bishops, 1998)

CANDIDATES FOR STATEWIDE OFFICE, SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

State Attorney General Candidates STATE TREASURER (Bold denotes candidates who responded to survey) Voit (R): Support. I believe that families deserve this support so they Stephen A. Zappala, II (D), Joshua D. Shapiro (D), can take advantage of opportunities presented by religious schools. John Morganelli (D), John C. Rafferty, Jr. (R), Joseph C. Peters (R) STATE SENATE State Auditor General Candidates Demme (R-13): Support. I support more choices for parents and the (Bold denotes candidates who responded to survey) EITC and OSTC are excellent tools to increase the availability of Eugene A. DePasquale (D), John A. Brown (R) educational choice for parents. Martin (R-13): Support. As a graduate of St. Anne’s Elementary and State Treasurer Candidates Lancaster Catholic High School, I appreciate the need for expansion of (Bold denotes candidates who responded to survey) EITC and will fight for school choice. Joseph M. Torsella (D), Otto W. Voit, III (R) DiSanto (R-15): Support. Lewis (R-15): Support. I support increasing EITC/OSTC caps to ex- U.S. Senator Candidates pand school choice and educational opportunities. (Bold denotes candidates who responded to survey) Ritchie (R-31): Support. This is a very good program to benefit fami- Joseph A. Sestak, Jr. (D), John K. Fetterman (D), Katie McGinty (D), lies of students that attend religious schools. Patrick J. Toomey (R) Harper (R-31): Support. I support programs that cut business taxes. State Senate Candidates STATE HOUSE (Bold denotes candidates who responded to survey) Selch (D-41): Support. Statewide funding for education must be Gregory Paulson (D-13), Ethan Demme (R-13), Scott Martin (R-13), increased across the board, including through the use of EITC and OSTC. Neal Rice (R-13), Robert Teplitz (D-15), Alvin Taylor (D-15), Elliott (D-43): Support. With state support barely covering these John DiSanto (R-15), Andrew Lewis (R-15), Jon Ritchie (R-31), programs, these tax incentives can provide additional funds to provide Michael Regan (R-31), Brice Arndt (R-31), Scott Harper (R-31) innovative and enriching programs for students with ever increasing needs. It’s a win-win proposition. State House of Representatives Candidates Greiner (R-43): Support. I have strongly supported this while working (Bold denotes candidates who responded to survey) as a certified public accountant, and as a legislator. Nancy Dean (D-13), John Lawrence (R-13), Melinda Fee (R-37), Rothman (R-87): Support. Timothy Reedy (R-37), Nicholas Selch (D-41), Brett Miller (R-41), Klein (D-97): Support. If the public school system was failing a child, Steven Elliott (D-43), Keith Greiner (R-43), Richard Rogers (D-81), that child deserves the opportunity of a quality education independent Richard Irvin (R-81), Mary Ann Buckley (R-81), Greg Rothman (R-87), of his/her parents’ financial situation as long as that private school had Michael Travis (R-87), Christopher Cowan (D-88), Sheryl Delozier a proven track record of offering a better education. My priority would (R-88), Christine Tolbert (D-89), Robert Kauffman (R-89), Denise be to understand why any public school would be failing any child and Weldon-Siviy (D-91), Daniel Moul (R-91), Dawn Keefer (R-92), Kraig to set forth funding or assistance to that school to ensure that every child Bruder (R-92), Anthony Pugliese (R-92), Kevin Schreiber (D-95), Joel receives a high quality education. Sears (R-95), Michael Sturla (D-96), Robert Bigley (R-96), Charles Hamby (D-100): Support. Klein (D-97), Steven Mentzer (R-97), Dale Hamby (D-100), Bryan Hess (R-101): Support. Cutler (R-100), Lorraine Scudder (D-101), Pier Hess (R-101), Jeffrey Ryan (R-101): Support. I am in favor of school choice. Griffith (R-101), Frank Ryan (R-101), John Dissinger (R-101), Jacob Diamond (R-102): Support. Long (D-102), Russ Diamond (R-102), Thomas Houtz (R-102), Patty Houtz (R-102): Support. Kim (D-103), Richard Soto (D-103), Jody Rebarchak (D-104), Susan Keeler (R-106): Support. I support tax-credit programs that allow Helm (R-104), Nathaniel Curtis (R-104), Thomas Mehaffie (R-106), families to place their children in the best educational settings. Jonathan Keeler (R-106), Deborah Albright (R-106), Chris Pfaff Pfaff (D-107): Oppose. Instead, I favor direct income tax credits to (D-107), Michael Krankowski (D-107), Kurt Masser (R-107), offset tax due (or increase refund) of PA state tax. (This is fair across the Melody Fleck (D-171), Kerry Benninghoff (R-171) board.) Krankowski (D-107): Support. Any funding increase to public, What is your position on increased funding for Catholic or private schools in PA I will also support. Educational Improvement Tax Credits (EITC) and Opportunity Masser (R-107): Support. Scholarship Tax Credits (OSTC) where the state budget Benninghoff (R-171): Support. Terrific program which I have includes an increase in public school funding? supported since its inception and voted yes to expand it each budget I can. Which statement reflects your position most accurately? ATTORNEY GENERAL a. I support legalized abortion. Morganelli (D): Support. b. I oppose legalized abortion in all circumstances. Shapiro (D): Support. c. I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in Peters (R): Support. danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest. Rafferty (R): Support. This is a terrific program and I have always supported. ATTORNEY GENERAL Morganelli (D): c. AUDITOR GENERAL Shapiro (D): a. Brown (R): Support. I support this program because I believe that Peters (R): c. families deserve this support to pursue a religious education. Rafferty (R): c. The 12 - Catholic Witness • April 15, 2016 AUDITOR GENERAL STATE HOUSE Brown (R): c. Selch (D-41): Support. All children residing in Pennsylvania should have access to purchase CHIP health insurance. Proof of residence should STATE TREASURER be the only requirement. Pennsylvania has a responsibility to care for all Voit (R): c. the children in our state. Healthy children benefit us all. STATE SENATE Elliott (D-43): Support. We have an obligation to care for those who Demme (R-13): b. All life, from conception to natural death, is created cannot care for themselves and this includes children, all children, in the image of God and as such deserves full legal protection regardless regardless of the status of their parents. of the circumstances. Greiner (R-43): The commonwealth has many financial challenges, yet Martin (R-13): c. I am compassionate to the needs of children. Many of my residents have DiSanto (R-15): c. I believe in the grave immoral nature of abortion, concerns and I would have to review at a wholistic level. however I also believe that the choice on how to proceed here must be Rothman (R-87): Oppose. I believe all children should have health retained to the individual, who in these extreme circumstances, were insurance. However, I am concerned about the cost of providing free robbed of their own choice to consent or to life. health insurance to undocumented immigrants when we are struggling to Lewis (R-15): b., except when life of mother is in danger. We must afford the costs of providing health insurance to American children. fight to protect unborn children, and work to promote a culture of life. Klein (D-97): Support. All children deserve access to quality Ritchie (R-31): c. healthcare. All parents independent of their income need to be aware of Harper (R-31): I don’t support abortions, but I understand that a CHIP programs to help support the medical needs of their children. woman will still get one illegally if they can’t get one legally. Hamby (D-100): Support. Hess (R-101): Oppose. STATE HOUSE Ryan (R-101): Oppose. I believe my faith and church should provide Selch (D-41): a. Abortion should be safe, legal and rare. this safety net. Elliott (D-43): a. I personally accept the Church’s position on abortion, Diamond (R-102): Oppose. Taxpayer dollars should not be spent on but as a representative for all, I cannot insert my personal beliefs into a illegals. discussion that should remain between a woman and her spouse or a Houtz (R-102): Oppose. woman and her doctor. Keeler (R-106): Oppose. Greiner (R-43): c. Pfaff (D-107): Oppose. Emergency room service excepted, illegal and Rothman (R-87): c. undocumented immigrants must pay or get non-governmental insurance. Klein (D-97): a. The ultimate decision of a woman to have an abortion Krankowski (D-107): Support. Children are children and all children stands with that woman and her doctor in the private office of that doctor. should have health care and insurance. Being Catholic, having friends that were adopted and family members Masser (R-107): Oppose. that have adopted children, I believe there are better options than Benninghoff (R-171): Oppose. Laws are made to obey. abortion. My family faced that decision when my wife was pregnant with my son. The doctors at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia told us that What is your position on amending Pennsylvania’s our son will be born with a heart defect and may have many other anti-discrimination laws for housing, employment and complications that may result in sickness and hardship. We chose life for public accommodation to include sexual orientation? my son and today have a beautiful, smart precious 6 year old boy. As an a. They should include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity elected representative, I would fight to strengthen social programs to or expression” as protected classes, no exceptions. support that woman and her choice no matter what she was to decide. b. They should contain specific provisions to protect the religious Hamby (D-100): a. liberties of religious institutions and the rights of conscience of Hess (R-101): c. Ryan (R-101): b. Life begins at conception and must be protected. I am business owners. a Knight of Malta and chair of a school for the Sisters of Good Shepherd. c. No change is necessary. Diamond (R-102): b. Houtz (R-102): c. ATTORNEY GENERAL Keeler (R-106): c. Morganelli (D): a. Pfaff (D-107): c. Abortion, as well as euthanasia, is murder. Thus, all Shapiro (D): a. abortion must cease. Peters (R): b. Krankowski (D-107): c. I always admired former Gov. Casey of PA for Rafferty (R): c. If there is to be a law, this provision should definitely being a Democrat and being pro-life. be included. Masser (R-107): c. AUDITOR GENERAL Benninghoff (R-171): c. As an adoptee I am very sensitive to this Brown (R): c. If there is to be a law, this provision should definitely be issue. included. What is your position on expanding the Children’s Health STATE TREASURER Insurance Program (CHIP) to provide health insurance to Voit (R): c. If there is to be a law, this provision should definitely be children in Pennsylvania who are undocumented immigrants? included. ATTORNEY GENERAL STATE SENATE Morganelli (D): Oppose. Demme (R-13): b. Shapiro (D): Support. Martin (R-13): c. However, we must continue to strive to protect Peters (R): Oppose. religious liberties and rights of conscience of our citizens. Rafferty (R): Oppose. I oppose the use of taxpayer dollars but this is DiSanto (R-15): b. I oppose discrimination in all forms and would not where charities need to step in. vote for anything that would undermine religious liberty. Lewis (R-15): c. No change to this law is necessary, and the proposed AUDITOR GENERAL change will only undermine religious freedoms. Brown (R): Oppose. I oppose the use of taxpayer dollars, but I believe Ritchie (R-31): b. that this is an opportunity for private charities to step in to offer support. Harper (R-31): I would eliminate the Human Relations Commission STATE TREASURER entirely because they try to extort money from employers – I know well. Voit (R): Oppose. I oppose the use of taxpayer dollars for STATE HOUSE undocumented immigrants, but I believe that this is an opportunity for Selch (D-41): a. No one in Pennsylvania should be discriminated private charities to step in to offer support. against for any reason. STATE SENATE Elliott (D-43): a. While churches may be exempted based on church Demme (R-13): Support. Children should not be restricted from life doctrine, in the business and public sector, religious liberty cannot be a giving medical care because of the actions of their parents. shield for discrimination, bigotry and hate. Martin (R-13): Oppose. This is a difficult question, because I have Greiner (R-43): c. compassion for children in need. However, I know our state faces Rothman (R-87): b. significant financial challenges already for PA citizens. The vast majority Klein (D-97): a. Every person deserves dignity. of the residents I would represent have expressed opposition to this idea. Hamby (D-100): a. DiSanto (R-15): Oppose. As a country, we must fundamentally follow Hess (R-101): b. our Federal immigration laws. If a child’s life is in danger, of course we Ryan (R-101): b. should protect that. I do not support U.S. citizens paying for any Diamond (R-102): b. undocumented person’s basic health care. Houtz (R-102): b. Lewis (R-15): Oppose. We must uphold the rule of law. People who are Keeler (R-106): b. here illegally should not quality for taxpayer funded programs. Pfaff (D-107): b. It must be illegal to discriminate against Christian Ritchie (R-31): Oppose. Taxpayer money should only be used for U.S. religious beliefs. citizens. In this case, private charity is needed. Krankowski (D-107): b. I strongly believe in religious liberties!! Harper (R-31): Support. Sure, but CHIP may expire soon. I’m for a Masser (R-107): I oppose discrimination in all forms. single-payer healthcare system. Benninghoff (R-171): c. The April 15, 2016 • Catholic Witness - 13

What is your position on increasing Medicaid What is your position on providing a federal tax credit reimbursement rates as a means to provide greater to businesses that donate to scholarship organizations access to care for Medicaid-covered individuals? that provide scholarships for low-income students at private and religious schools in grades kindergarten through 12? ATTORNEY GENERAL Morganelli (D): Support. Perry (R-4): Support. Shapiro (D): Support. Costello (R-6): Support. Peters (R): Support. Meehan (R-7): Support. Rafferty (R): Support. Health care professionals deserve a fair Marsicano (D-11): Support. reimbursement and the poor deserve care. Smucker (R-16): Support. Beiler (R-16): Supprt. AUDITOR GENERAL Brown (R): Support. The poor deserve care and I believe that health Which statement reflects your position most accurately? care professionals deserve to be adequately compensated. a. I support legalized abortion. b. I oppose legalized abortion in all circumstances. STATE TREASURER c. I oppose legalized abortion, except when the life of the mother is in Voit (R): Support. Health care professionals deserve to be adequately danger or the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest. compensated for caring for the less fortunate and I believe our society has Perry (R-4): c. an obligation to help those who can’t help themselves. Costello (R-6): c. STATE SENATE Meehan (R-7): I am pro-life. I have a 96% pro-life rating from National Demme (R-13): Oppose. I support looking for market driven, patient Right to Life. I oppose partial-birth abortion, and I have voted to prevent centered approaches to bring down the cost of healthcare rather than pain-capable abortions after 20 weeks. I have repeatedly voted to prevent increase government spending. taxpayer funding of abortions. Martin (R-13): I believe we need to implement solutions that reduce Marsicano (D-11): c. the cost of care so current Medicaid reimbursement rates provide Smucker (R-16): b. adequate access and coverage. This is an issue that needs to be looked at Beiler (R-16): c. in a wholistic manner, including cost-shifting that has driven up costs on What is your position on legislation that would permit the privately insured as well. undocumented immigrants who have lived in the United States DiSanto (R-15): This is a federal issue. We must get our fiscal house for a number of years, have worked and built equities in our in order before increasing benefits. I am available to discuss with anyone country and who do not have criminal records to register and will work hard to cut wasteful spending within state government so with the government and take steps to earn legal status? that we can invest in important programs. Lewis (R-15): Oppose. Medicaid spending in PA is out of control, Perry (R-4): Oppose. We must secure the border first. Secondly, we are a and increasing rates will only worsen the problem. We must drive down nation of laws. While I empathize with the intent of this question, my oath healthcare costs in PA through innovation, public-private partnerships, is to uphold and defend the laws of this country and its citizens, and I feel and utilizing technology. for these illegal immigrants, let us please not forget they are here illegally. Ritchie (R-31): Support. Doctors, nurses and other health care After we secure our borders, we can work on rights to earning citizenship. professionals deserve to be fairly compensated when providing care for Costello (R-6): The U.S. is the most generous and compassionate nation the less fortunate. Society has a responsibility to help those that truly on the face of the Earth. I believe we need to continue to show respect and can’t help themselves. compassion to our fellow citizens. However, we must also deal with the Harper (R-31): Oppose. PA should opt out of Medicare Medicaid and reality that there are people in this world who wish to do us harm and there implement a single-payer system so everyone has access to healthcare. are entities out there who seek to exploit other humans for profit or political gain. We must secure our borders and recognize those who STATE HOUSE respected our immigration process while simultaneously working with Selch (D-41): Support. Low Medicaid reimbursement rates force those who broke the law in a humane and realistic manner. patients to a limited number of care providers. Patients must travel far Meehan (R-7): I do not support amnesty. There should be penalties for from their home to get basic care, especially from rural areas or are breaking the law and certain restitutions would need to be made before forced into expensive acute care facilities. Raise the reimbursement rates allowing illegal immigrants to begin the naturalization process. to obtain care from more local providers. Marsicano (D-11): Oppose. Elliott (D-43): Support. I believe that we have an obligation to protect Smucker (R-16): Oppose. I do not support amnesty for illegal and care for those who need it most and expanding access to care for immigrants. Only after our borders are secure can we develop a Medicaid-covered individuals supports that belief. comprehensive, fair and compassionate strategy to address those living in Greiner (R-43): We need to find ways to reduce costs of care to start, our country illegally that positions our country for success. so that we can determine if Medicaid reimbursement rates provide Beiler (R-16): Support. I support legal status but not citizenship. adequate access and coverage. It has to be looked at in a wholistic manner. What is your position on efforts to pass legislation (i.e., the Rothman (R-87): Support. As long as the increased reimbursement Federal Employment Non-Discrimination Act) that would make sexual rates do not result in tax increases for hardworking Americans. orientation and gender identity or expression protected classes that are Klein (D-97): Support. I support increasing Medicaid reimbursement equivalent to other protected classes (e.g., race, religion, sex, etc.)? rates. All people deserve access to quality healthcare. Low reimbursement rates to physicians result in overburdened offices and physicians. The Perry (R-4): Oppose. I believe in no form of discrimination whatsoever higher payments will entice more providers to accept Medicaid and offer – to include laws like this that only protect certain classes – which quality healthcare to all people independent of their financial standing. inherently discriminates against someone else’s beliefs. Hamby (D-100): Support. Provided it can be financially supported. Costello (R-6): I am opposed to discrimination of any kind. Hess (R-101): Support. Meehan (R-7): I oppose discrimination. I would have to review any Ryan (R-101): Support. Medicaid rates deny coverage – however the proposed legislation to ensure it protects everyone’s constitutional rights. ACA does not provide healthcare. Marsicano (D-11): Support. Diamond (R-102): Oppose. We can’t afford it at this time. Smucker (R-16): Oppose. Nobody should ever be discriminated against. Houtz (R-102): Support. I oppose efforts to force faith-based institutions from implementing and Keeler (R-106): Support. I support if H.H.S. will allow federal money executing policies which run counter to their faith. earmarked for Medicaid expansion to pay for private insurance. Beiler (R-16): Oppose. Pfaff (D-107): Support. Home health care needs greater rate(s) or reimbursement. What is your position on increasing Medicaid reimbursement rates as a Krankowski (D-107): Support. means to provide greater access to care for Medicaid-covered individuals? Masser (R-107): Our state is currently facing a fiscal crisis due to the Perry (R-4): Oppose. Rates should be based on the area and rates of mismanagement of Governor Wolf and his inability to compromise. We service. need to get our fiscal house in order before we increase funding for any Costello (R-6): I support efforts to provide greater access to quality items in the budget. However, as we get our fiscal house in order I will healthcare for all Americans, especially for those individuals most in need. keep an open mind to increased funding requests such as this. However, I would need to review the specifics and better understand any Benninghoff (R-171): Support. proposal to increase Medicaid reimbursement rates, in particular, with respect to how such increases would be distributed and justified given the UNITED STATES CONGRESS demand and need for care. Until I see the specifics of such a proposal, it is difficult to identify a “SUPPORT/OPPOSE” position to this question. United States Congress Candidates Meehan (R-7): I support ensuring states have the flexibility to set (Bold denotes candidates who responded to survey) Medicaid provider reimbursement rates that ensure the state’s residents Joshua Burkholder (D-4), Scott Perry (R-4), Michael Parrish (D-6), Lindy Li have access to necessary primary and specialty care. (D-6), Ryan Costello (R-6), Mary Ellen Balchunis (D-7), William Golderer (D-7), Marsicano (D-11): Support. Patrick Meehan (R-7), Stanley Casacio (R-7), Arthur Halvorson (R-9), Smucker (R-16): Support. Before rates are increased, we much eliminate William Shuster (R-9), Michael Marsicano (D-11), Lou Barletta (R-11), Richard the nearly $100B of annual waste, fraud and abuse. Furthermore we must Daugherty (D-15), Charles Dent (R-15), Christina Hartman (D-16), Gary ensure that physicians and medical providers are rewarded for keeping people healthy. Wegman (D-16), Lloyd Smucker (R-16), Chester Beiler (R-16) Beiler (R-16): (Did not respond) The 14 - Catholic Witness • April 15, 2016

Immaculee Ilibagiza, Kathleen McCarthy to Highlight Retreat in Emmitsburg Rwandan genocide survivor Immaculee Ilibagiza and Catholic radio broad- The names of the following deceased MILLERSVILLE – St. Philip caster Kathleen McCarthy will share the message of Christ’s forgiveness, persons have been submitted by their the Apostle: Donald Herr, Theresa mercy, healing and hope during a retreat at Mount St. Mary’s University in parishes. Please remember in your Herr, Harry King, Deborah Koshuta, Emmitsburg, Md., June 24-26. prayers the happy repose of these Thomas Nicklaus, Diane Ostapuck. recently departed souls and the consola- Immaculee will be the retreat leader Friday through Saturday, and Kathleen tion of their loved ones. MOUNT CARMEL – Divine will lead Saturday and Sunday. Redeemer: James J. Devine, Leo H. The retreat is being sponsored by the Evangelization and Stewardship Com- ABBOTTSTOWN – Immaculate Ferrari, Joseph A. Kaminski. mittee of St. Francis Xavier Parish in Gettysburg. The retreat will include Heart of Mary: Ruth Sharff. NEW CUMBERLAND – St. Confessions, a healing service, celebration of Mass, overnight Adoration of BLOOMSBURG – St. Columba: Theresa: Samuel Ammirato, Rosemary the Blessed Sacrament, music ministry and prayer teams. William J. Mugan. Donlevy. Participants can register as a commuter or as an overnight guest. For regis- CHAMBERSBURG – Corpus tration forms, visit www.aliveinthespirit.net or contact Kathy Reid at kathy- NEW FREEDOM – St. John the [email protected]. Christi: Sharon Denise (Strayer) Baptist: Vincent Quinn. Bitner, Robert Ripper, Mary Janice (Foose) Rogers, Anthony Frank ROHRERSTOWN – St. Leo the Resurrection Catholic School Torina. Great: Thomas “Coach” Pierzga. Announces “Rock the Church II” COAL TOWNSHIP – Our Lady of SELINSGROVE – St. Pius X: Hope: Steven W. Conrad, Sr. William Colegrove. Music groups and schools from Lancaster will gather April 29, 7 p.m., at St. Anthony of Padua Church to perform their favorite songs in a benefit concert COLUMBIA – St. Peter: Magdellen SHIPPENSBURG – Our Lady of for Resurrection Catholic School. Dellen. the Visitation: Lucien J. Belanger, Margaret (Peggy) Cretella, Ronald E. Called “Rock the Church,” the choirs and ensembles from St. Mary, St. Jo- ELIZABETHTOWN – St. Peter: Gilson, Herbert R. Ruquet, Sr. seph, St. Anthony and San Juan Bautista churches will be joined by the Lan- Jane E. Redcay, John J. Zubeck. caster Catholic High School Concert Choir and Resurrection’s school choir, SUNBURY – St. Monica: Rose The Singing Saints. ENOLA – Our Lady of Lourdes: Marie “Rhea” Buchanan. Lucy Boone, Daniel Keating, Sr., In all, more than 100 men, women and children will sing pieces that reflect Betty Rhoades, Mary Taschek. YORK – Immaculate Conception the diversity of the parishes, the styles of the groups and the scope of their BVM: Mildred Link; St. Joseph: Peter talents. They include bilingual musicians who play guitars and congas, tradi- HANOVER – St. Vincent de Paul: A. Brady, Jr., Kirby E. Fogle, John J. tional church choirs singing a cappella and contemporary ensembles with a Grace Adams, Lois LaBarre. Marinak, St. Rose of Lima: Barbara modern sound. HARRISBURG – St. Catherine Kay Klein, Florence Koch, Richard This is the second year of Rock the Church, so named to align with last Labouré: Frances Malfara, Columba Kozuch, Clara Sowers, Catherine year’s school theme, “Resurrection Rocks.” Navarro; St. Margaret Mary: Alexis R. Waltemyer, James Wisman. “We are pleased this year to have received the enthusiastic support from our Hendrickes, John C. LaVia. parishes and Lancaster Catholic High,” said Principal Brenda Weaver. “The HERSHEY – St. Joan of Arc: choirs and music groups possess amazing talent. Seeing them perform on the Donna Daley. same night was a rare treat last year, and it promises to be even better.” KULPMONT – Holy Angels: Rita Rock the Church is free though donations may be offered. T-shirts will be Bolesta, Lucille T. Mummaw, Heather available for sale at the event for $20. Order them ahead of time and get them Please pray for the following for $18. Call 715-5537 for information. M. Nolter. clergy who died in April during the past 25 years: Parish music directors are Robert Grabowski from St. Anthony, Anthony LANCASTER – Assumption BVM: Wiker from San Juan Bautista, Stephanie Sands from St. Mary, Michael Ad- Kathleen Riffert; St. John Neumann: Deacon Alphonse Formica, 1991 Msgr. Joseph Hager, 1992 ams from Resurrection Catholic School and Scott Drackley from Lancaster Piper Mary Bixler, Michael Falcone, Catholic. Jennifer Rineer will represent St. Joseph Parish. William Hannigan, Angelo Rogogna. Msgr. Bernard Mattern, 1992 Deacon Halmon Banks Sr., 1993 LITTLESTOWN – St. Aloysius: Msgr. Donald Adams, 1996 San Marziale Procession to Be Held July 10 David Staub. Father Patrick D’Alessandro, 1996 The 2016 San Marziale Procession, featuring the Kulpmont Our Boys MCSHERRYSTOWN – Deacon Arthur Colonell, 1996 Band, will be held July 10 in Kulpmont. Annunciation BVM: Jane Redkay, Father Anthony Burakowski, 2002 The procession will once again showcase the legendary Our Boys Band, Connie Rushton. Father Curtis Delarm, 2005 Father Mark Matthew Casey, who put on a truly wonderful, historic and moving performance the last cou- MECHANICSBURG – St. Joseph: OMI, 2007 ple of years. The band will play a variety of authentic Italian march music Brenda Clark, Robert Wesoloskie. Father Gerald Lytle, 2012 along with some traditional patriotic American songs. MIDDLETOWN – Seven Sorrows Deacon Charles Clark, 2012 The procession will take place at 1 p.m. Sunday, July 10, and will begin at BVM: Monique Salensky, Robert Father Daniel Menniti, 2015. Holy Angels Church, 855 Scott St. The event is organized by Landscape Ser- Travitz. vices, Bressi Family Foods, the Holy Name Society of Holy Angels Church, Holy Angels Church, the Kulpmont Order of the Knights of Columbus and various dedicated individuals and local businesses. Chris Bressi, one of the organizers stated, “It continues to be all about turn- out and involvement. Much of what we do is a numbers game. The more involvement by the community and local businesses, the bigger and better this event will continue to get for years to come. We are asking for people to participate in any way they can. This is a community-focused event that serves an excellent cause” Any Local businesses or individuals who want to be a named or anonymous sponsor can call Mr. Bressi at 570-373-9433 or Tom Letcavage of Landscape services at 570-274-1508. St. Marziale is the patron saint of Isca sull’ Ionio, a small town in south- ern Italy, which was the birthplace of many Italian immigrants who came to America, eventually settling in the coal region, for a better life. According to legend, St. Marziale was the youngest of seven sons - known as the seven martyrs - of St. Felicitas and is venerated as the patron saint of Isca sullo Ionio in Calabria, Italy, and Torricella Peligna in the Abruzzo region of Italy. His feast day is July 10. During the procession onlookers can pin money to the statue; the money will then be donated to Holy Angels Church and/or needy members of the community. For those who participate and march, there will be food and refreshments available at the Holy Angels picnic grounds. Many people contribute to the food and refreshments, organizers want to personally thank Scicchitano Bu- ono Pizza of Kulpmont for providing a great spread the past couple of years.. Those who wish to walk in the procession are asked to meet at 12:30 p.m. Like us on FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/SanMarzialeParadeKulp montPa?fref=ts. Visit us on YouTube: http://youtu.be/gtS58Nm2bDk. Event Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/1589702304688570/ The April 15, 2016 • Catholic Witness - 15

Big breakfast at St. Benedict the Abbot Parish in Alvernia University in Reading, Pa., is hosting “The Lebanon. Going out for breakfast? Come and enjoy a big breakfast Francis Factor,” a lecture series that explores Pope Francis and on Sunday, April 24 from 8:30 a.m.-noon. Adults $8, children 12 and the ways he is influencing the embrace of the Gospel in the Church Compiled by Emily M. Albert under $3, children 2 and under eat free. Sponsored by the Knights of and wider world. The inaugural event is “Reflections on a Pilgrim from Columbus Council #15929. the Periphery” on April 26 at 7 p.m. in the university’s McGlinn Center. Spiritual Offerings Annual flea market hosted by the CCW of Holy The presenter will be William L. Portier, Ph.D., Chair of Catholic Theol- In Celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the Per- Name of Jesus in Harrisburg will be held in the gymnasium ogy at the University of Dayton. For information, visit www.alvernia. petual Adoration Chapel at St. Joseph Parish in Lancaster, on April 30 from 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Donations needed - only accepting edu/arts-culture. Father William Casey, CPM, will lead Eucharistic Devotions May 1-3. items in good resale condition, no furniture. Also accepting donations for baked goods. Drop off at the gym on Friday night April 29 from 5-7 Come see the movie Apparition Hill on May 15 at Father Casey is a nationally and internationally renowned preacher 40 W. High St, Carlisle, as 7 strangers p.m. For more information, or to reserve a table, call 717-545-3566. the Carlisle Theatre, of the Congregation of the Fathers of Mercy and frequently seen on investigate one of the greatest mysteries in the world in Medjugorje. EWTN. His message of the Reality of Jesus Alive with us in the Holy The St. Joan of Arc Council of Catholic Women is Eucharist will be further explored as we host The Vatican International They attend the apparition of Mariana, climb Cross Mountain and sponsoring a Lasagna Dinner on Saturday, April 23 Apparition Hill in search for their answers and cures. All profits will Exhibition, “The Eucharistic Miracles of the World,” in Msgr. Thomas H. from 4-8 p.m at St. Joan of Arc School Cafeteria. Proceeds from the Smith Hall, April 30 and May 1-2-3. Father Casey will speak May 1-3 event will benefit the Interfaith Shelter for Homeless Families. Cost be donated to St. Francis of Assisi Soup kitchen in Harrisburg, which at 7p.m. at St. Joseph’s. The Exhibition will be open before and after includes, regular size $10 (includes 2 pieces of lasagna, 2 meatballs, feeds meals to 200 people a day. For tickets, call Donna at 717-448- talks. Exhibition times to be posted on the website stjosephslanc.com 2 salad, roll with butter, coffee, or tea), $8.50 without meatballs. Junior 2497 or email [email protected]. Tickets are $10 weeks prior or call St. Joseph’s, 717-397-6921. size $6 (includes 2 pieces of lasagna, 2 meatballs, salad, roll with but- for adults and $5 for teens. Priests and religious are free. (Please note that because the Vatican has not yet formally pronounced on the On May 1, Sacred Heart of Jesus Church (Parish Center ter, coffee, or tea), $5 without meatball. Desserts $1 (pies and cakes). - 1031 Sprenkle Rd.) in Spring Grove is holding a Memorial Service for For more information, contact Maggie Wetherhold at 717-520-0241. authenticity of the alleged apparitions of Our Lady of Medjugorje, the Preborn and Infant loss at 1 p.m. in the Parish Center. If your family St. Rose of Lima School located at 115 N. Bieseck- faithful are not bound to assent to the content of this film as a matter of has lost a child due to miscarriage, stillbirth, abortion, or infant death, er Rd, Thomasville, will hold its Annual Sip into Summer Wine faith. At the same time, the Church does not dissuade the faithful from please join us for the Memorial Service for the Unborn. A light social and Beer Festival on the school grounds on April 30 from 1-6 p.m. To viewing this film with a desire to grow in faith, hope and love or even to will be held following the service. purchase tickets in advance, call the school at 717-792-0889, visit visit Medjugorje as a place where faithful pilgrims may gather.) North American Lourdes Volunteers will present www.saintroseoflimayork.org or call event coordinator, Karen Lobo Holy Name of Jesus Council #14081 Golf Outing - a 90-minute Virtual Pilgrimage to Lourdes, France, at St. (Etter) at 717-860-4854. Live music, food available for purchase and The Annual Peter Kozyra Memorial Golf Outing will be held Saturday Katharine Drexel Parish in Mechanicsburg on April 30 at 1 p.m. This new this year, craft vendors! morning May 14 at Deer Valley Golf Course. Fun filled golf-food-prizes prayer experience is sponsored by the Council of Catholic Women, Enjoy a relaxing social setting with other young all for $75 with proceeds to benefit K of C Council #14081’s Annual Cumberland-Perry District. During this guided Lourdes experience, you adults in their 20s and 30s who are interested in topics of faith Family Picnic. Contact Charles Rice at 717-808-6525 or crice41209@ will immerse yourself in the Gospel of Lourdes as given by Our Lady and contemporary issues directly affecting their lives. Join Theology aol.com for more information. Deadline to enter is Wednesday, May to St. Bernadette. You will have the opportunity to touch the Grotto on Tap – Harrisburg on Thursday, April 21 in the Abbey Bar (2ndfloor) 11. of Appalachian Brewing Company, 50 North Cameron Street in Har- Rock and to experience the healing grace of Lourdes Water. As part J risburg. Happy half hour and dinner will begin at 6:30 p.m., followed oin Holy Spirit-A Geisinger Affiliate on Saturday, of this spiritual opportunity to draw nearer to God with Our Lady and in Enola for the 6th annual St. Bernadette, you will receive a Eucharistic blessing and pray the by a presentation by Lisa Goddard on “Modern Day Catholic Sex” at 7 May 21 at Adams-Ricci Park Rosary. A Plenary Indulgence is granted to all the faithful, under the pm. Goddard, a former middle school teacher with a Masters Degree Spirit 5K Run/Walk. The 5K run and walk will be timed by Pretzel City usual conditions, who attend a Virtual Pilgrimage with North American in Education, is a stay-at-home mother to her two children and is Sports. Registration opens at 8 a.m., the warm-up session begins at Lourdes Volunteers. Lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. Mass at Saint passionate about raising awareness of the benefits of NFP. She has 8:30 a.m., and the 5K run starts at 9 a.m. The top three male and fe- Katharine Drexel is at 4:30 p.m. For more information and reservations a zeal for organizing events for young adults --such as the speed male finishers in age categories will receive award medals. There will for lunch, contact Joyce Scott 717-737-0927 or [email protected] or dating kick-off for the National Catholic Singles Conference -- as well also be family-friendly “Walk in the Park” starting at 9:05 a.m. Regis- Stella Kulp at [email protected]. as various presentations, including discussions regarding proper tration is $20 for ages 18 and younger and $25 for ages 19 and older. North American Lourdes Volunteers will present a dating and courtship on the Chester County-based Counterpoint TV Register on-line by April 18 to be guaranteed a shirt at the link below. 90-minute prayerful Virtual Pilgrimage to Lourdes, France, show. Theology on Tap – Harrisburg meets every third Thursday of After April 19, ages 18 and younger are $25; 19 and up are $30. at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, 2 N. 8th Street, Leba- the month at ABC’s Harrisburg location. For more information and to Register at https://www.pretzelcitysports.com/onlineform1.php?id=821. non, on Friday, April 29 at 7 p.m. During this guided Lourdes experi- stay up-to-date on our upcoming events, follow us on Facebook at / For more information, contact 717-972-4146 or caswartz2@geisinger. ence, you will immerse yourself in the Gospel message of Lourdes as Groups/HarrisburgTOT or totharrisburg.com. edu or [email protected]. given by Our Lady to St. Bernadette. You will have the opportunity to Holy Spirit–A Geisinger Affiliate will host a work- Mother/Daughter Princess Tea at St. Patrick Parish touch the Grotto Rock and to experience the healing grace of Lourdes shop for women, titled “Overcoming Obesity,” on Satur- in York on May 1 from 2-4 pm. Enjoy crafts, singing and shar- Water. For more information, call 717-274-2007. day, April 30, from 9-11:30 a.m. at Holy Spirit Hospital. The workshop ing tea with three princesses. Tickets are $10. If interested, tickets are is presented by the hospital’s Spirit of Women program, and will fea- available after each Mass or by calling 717-854-8263. ture a health lecture led by Jennifer Franceschelli-Hosterman, D.O., Fundraisers and Events St. Patrick School in York is celebrating its 165th The CCW of Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Holy Spirit Nutrition and Weight Management, on nutrition information, tips for reading food labels, plus an overview of surgical treatment anniversary during the 2016-2017 school year. The Mary Parish in McSherrystown is sponsoring a fund-raiser school is in search of former staff and students so they can be a part for the Fisher House, a place for military families to stay while their options available for weight loss. Following the lecture, attendees of this milestone year. Please contact us through our website under soldier is hospitalized at Walter Reed. They are selling raffle tickets for can participate in a free cardio fitness class presented by Momentum a Mother’s day basket valued at $250, filled with gift cards to pamper Female Health & Fitness Club from 10:30-11:30 a.m. This workshop is education -alumni at stpatrickyork.org – or call the school to be mom. Tickets are $1 a piece, or 6 for $5. The CCW is also sponsoring free to attend but open to Spirit of Women members only. Membership added to the alumni list. a reception for the parish’s couples who are married 50 years in 2016. in the program is free. To register for the event or to become a mem- Compassionate Humans Against Trafficking (CHAT) This will be held after the 10 a.m. Mass on June 5. Contact Parish ber, visit www.hsh.org/spirit-of-women, email HSGACommEdWeb@ will conduct an all-day awareness training on human CCW President Toni Weaver at 717-632-5357. geisinger.edu or call 717-972-4141. trafficking at Carlisle Alliance Church, 237 E. North St. in Carlisle, from Trinity High School’s Parent Assocation in partner- 9 a.m- 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 23. For this event, CHAT is partner- St. Vincent de Paul Parish Spring Festival will take is sponsoring a workshop for parents entitled place May 7 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the gym and playground yard, ship with MADD ing with the Carlisle Area Family Life Center, a crisis pregnancy and 220 Third St. Hanover. Featuring BBQ chicken dinner made from Little “Power of Parents.” Learn important tools to use when having conver- family resource and support center, and the Respect Life ministries Everetts. Dinner includes a half of chicken, baked potato, applesauce, sations about alcohol with your children and teenagers. Monday, April of St. Patrick and Our Lady of the Visitation churches in Carlisle and rolls and butter for $8 per ticket. There will be a flower sale and bake 25, 2016 at 7 p.m. in Trinity’s auditorium. All are welcome and there is Shippensburg, respectively. The training will focus on the definition no charge to attend. sale as well. Tickets can be obtained by calling the parish house at of trafficking, identification of possible victims and ways to help. The 717-637-4625 or they are available in our thrift shop. Delone Catholic High School is offering students a event is free but is only open to the first 50 registrants. Lunch, refresh- chance to earn scholarship dollars at their Open House on Sunday, Walking with the Saints: The Black Catholic Apostolate is ments and training materials will be provided. Free-will donations April 24. The competition will begin promptly at 1 p.m. School tours will be accepted. To register for this life-saving training, go to http:// hosting a presentation on May 14 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Cardinal are available during Open House from 12-3 p.m. All current eighth Keeler Center, Harrisburg. Brother A. Gerard Jordan, O. Praem., grade students are eligible. There are two options to participate in, a carlisletraffickingtraining.eventbrite.com. For more information, call the will present on The Cause for the Canonization of Father Augustus Jeopardy-style game with categories including math, science, English, Carlisle Area Family Life Center at 717-243-6544. Tolton. Sister Jean L. Olmstead, SBS, will present on how St. Katharine Social Studies, and Religion. Or, an essay on the topic “Open Letter Drexel became the patron saint of racial injustice. Doors open at 8:30 to God” or “Why is worship an integral part of your life?” typed within Job Opportunities a.m. and a continental breakfast will be offered. There is no registration 30 minutes during the event. Students may not bring any notes with St. Richard Parish in Manheim is seeking a paid fee and all are invited. them. The essay will be evaluated by former English faculty of Delone part-time Director of Music. The position is for 10 hours per Light Weigh is a program that helps people fight Catholic, based on rubrics utilized in Delone Catholic’s English depart- week and requires a mature, professional, responsible, committed temptation and addiction. Growing closer to God we will help ment. The winner of the essay contest will be announced on May 2, to individual with excellent communication, organizational and interper- each other to lose weight through a safe and healthy faith-based allow time for scoring. In order to participate in either option, students sonal skills. Must be a Catholic in good standing. Should be accom- diet program. The Light Weigh Bible Study DVD Series will have an must pre-register by April 20 www.DeloneCatholic.org. One winner plished in one or more of the following areas: organ, piano, voice, or orientation on April 21 at 6:30 p.m. in the St. Rose of Lima Parish Of- will be provided for each of the two options and the scholarship will be choral direction. This person will maintain a professional relationship fice Meeting Room, located in the former convent (950 W. Market St., paid out over the course of their four years at Delone Catholic. Con- with the pastor, members of the choir, parishioners, and members of York). Prevention Magazine recommends Light Weigh. tact Ms. Katie Mahoney, Director of Enrollment and Marketing, with the Liturgy Committee. In order to motivate volunteers to maintain their The DVD Series “Seven Teachings to Prepare for a questions at [email protected] or 717-637-5969 ext 206. commitment to choral singing and cantoring in the church, the person New Life in the Spirit” is a program by A New Pentecost. Local St. Anne’s Retirement Community will hold the needs to be outgoing, enthusiastic and energetic, fostering enjoyment Charismatic prayer groups will share their personal testimonies on how Third Annual Run for the Residents on Saturday, April of singing for the Lord while maintaining required discipline. Contact the Holy Spirit gave them a new relationship with Jesus and His love 16 on the grounds of St. Anne’s. Register on-line at stannesrc.org/ Father Stephen Weitzel at 717-665-2465 or send resume to weitzel- for us. Come join us on Thursday, April 28 from 6:30-8:30 p.m., and run.asp for complete event information or on-site registration opens [email protected]. Saturdays April 30, May 7 and May 14 from 9 a.m. -1:30 p.m. in the at 7:30 a.m. Join us to support the residents, stretch your legs, be St. Rose of Lima Parish Office Meeting Room, located in the former eligible for fun prizes and share in this popular spring time event! St. Ignatius Loyola Parish in Buchanan Valley is convent (950 W. Market St., York). Contact Joyce at 717-887-3515 for Questions? Call Mary Jo at 717-285-6539. looking for a part-time maintenance person. This person more information. will work under the direction of the parish office to maintain the church, On Monday May 9, St. Theresa School in New Cum- parish center and grounds. Competitive wage. Contact stignatiuso- St. James Parish in Lititz will host a special Sunday berland is hosting a Curriculum Fair/Open House for bingo with a $1,000 jackpot on April 17. Doors open at noon all current and prospective families. This is a terrific opportunity to see [email protected] or call 717-677-8012 for more information. and bingo starts at 2 p.m. There will be 20 regular games at the St. all the projects the students have been working on, meet the teachers A second grade teacher position will be available James Parish Hall, Lititz. Must be 18 years old to play. and tour the school. Financial assistance is available and we offer a at Lebanon Catholic School beginning with the 2016-2017 Grammy Award-Winning Christian Music Legend special transfer scholarship to public or home-schooled students en- school year. A Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education is required. John Michael Talbot will bring his music and ministry to St. Eliza- tering grades 1-7: $1,000 off your first year of tuition and $500 off your The applicant will be responsible for instructing second grade students beth Ann Seton Parish, 310 Hertzler Road, Mechanicsburg, on Mon- second year. If you are interested in St. Theresa School but cannot according to the diocesan’s second grade curriculum and creating day, April 18, at 7 p.m. Free-will offering. Talbot is one of the pioneering attend the open house, call the school at 717-774-7464 to schedule a a positive educational climate for the students to learn. Please send artists of what has become known as Contemporary Christian Music. tour! You can also visit our website at www.sainttheresaschool.org. your resume, a copy of your degree, and updated clearances to Mrs. He is recognized as one of Catholic music’s most popular artists, with Holy Spirit–A Geisinger Affiliate will host a new Rose Kury, Principal, Lebanon Catholic School, 1400 Chestnut Street, multi-platinum sales and compositions published in hymnals through- wellness program for individuals with cancer or those Lebanon, PA 17042. who want to learn how to lower their risk of developing cancer. Take out the world. This event is an opportunity to experience meditative, An Extended After School Enrichment Pre-Kinder- healing, acoustic music, written and offered in deep faith and love of Charge: A Cancer Wellness Program will focus on steps that can be taken to combat cancer, such as following an anti-cancer diet, manag- garten Program Director position will be available at Lebanon God. Come to hear a message of hope and insights into the Mass. Catholic School beginning with the 2016-2017 school year. An Early Take this time for spiritual refreshment and renewal. All are welcome. ing stress, maintaining a healthy weight and boosting fitness. The first meeting will be held at Holy Spirit Hospital auditorium at 6:30 p.m. Childhood or Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education is required. St. John the Baptist School in New Freedom, is on Tuesday, April 26. Angela Soto Hamlin, M.D., FACS, Holy Spirit The applicant will be responsible for providing an appropriate safe, hosting a Dinner, Dance and Auction on Saturday, April Breast Care Center, will present an overview of the program, followed caring and enriching environment for the children enrolled in the 23 beginning at 6 p.m. Event has a 50s theme, “Rock around the by a cooking demonstration and samples of healthy foods. The Take extended afterschool enrichment program. Send your resume, a copy Clock,” and will be held on the school grounds in the Father Capitani Charge: A Cancer Wellness Program was developed by staff from the of your degree, and updated clearances to Mrs. Rose Kury, Principal, Social Hall at 315 N. Constitution Ave. Tickets are $50 per person. The Holy Spirit Breast Care Center. The meetings are free to attend and Lebanon Catholic School, 1400 Chestnut Street, Lebanon, PA 17042. evening will include appetizers, dinner, dancing, silent and live auctions open to men and women. They will be held on the following Tuesdays: and gaming tables. All of the proceeds from this event help with the April 26, June 28, September 27 and November 29, from 6:30 to 8 York Catholic has the following coaching posi- operational costs of the school and help us to continue our mission of p.m. in the Holy Spirit Hospital auditorium, located at 503 N. 21st St., tions available: Junior High Football Assistants, Junior Var- providing children with an affordable, quality education in keeping with Camp Hill. Space is limited. For more information or to register, visit sity Boys’ Soccer Coach. Please contact Rick Luckman, Athletic our Catholic traditions and values. For tickets and information, contact www.hsh.org/spirit-of-women, send an email to SOwens2@geisinger. Director, York Catholic High School, 601 E Springettsbury Ave, York Teresa Shaub at 717-235-3525, ext. 213, or at [email protected]. edu or call 717-972-4149. PA 17403, [email protected] or 717-846-8871, ext. 6. The 16 - Catholic Witness • April 15, 2016 Sisters Celebrate Jubilees

he annual diocesan Mass celebrating religious Sisters’ Tanniversaries of their profession took place at the Cardinal Keeler Center in Harrisburg on April 2, celebrated by Bishop Ronald Gainer. The jubilarians were honored in a particular way for their dedication to religious life, joined by members of their community.

EMILY M. ALBERT, THE CATHOLIC WITNESS

Above: Sister Jean Marie Holup, a Sister of Sts. Cyril and Methodius, proclaims the First Reading from the Acts of the Apostles. Right: Christian Charity Sister Annelyth Pandi, listens prayerfully to the Gospel Reading from Mark, “Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature.” Sister Maria Joseph of the Sacred Heart, OP This Year’s Jubilarians Sister Bernice Marie Balint, SSCM 25 Years 60 Years Sister Catherine Marie McCaffrey, SCC Sister Anne Marie Meadowcroft, ASC 40 Years Sister Celeste Marie Kennerty, SSCM Sister M. Carol Therese Stofka, SSCM 65 Years 45 Years Sister Beatrice Kellet, SCC Sister Eileen Marie McGowan, DM Sister Carmelita Smith, SCC Sister Jean Marie Holup, SSCM Sister M. Janet Matlak, SSCM Sister Colette Tenley, ASC 50 Years Sister Evelyn Danks, SSJ 70 Years Sister Susan Wagaman, SSJ Sister Florence Marcin, SSCM Sister Susan Marie Kuk, IHM Sister Nivarda Filip, SCC Sister Elizabeth Anne Motz, IHM Sister Mary Theresa Escher, SCC Sister M. Judith Tarozzi, DM Sister Shawn Donnelly, SCC 75 Years Sister Justina Lanasa, SCC Sister Helen Panci, ASC Sister M. Rosamund Dupock, SSCM Bishop Ronald Gainer gives Holy Communion to Sister Mary Theresa Escher, 55 Years Sister Rosalie Marx, SCC SCC. Sister Mary Pius of the Eucharist, OP Sister Anna Ballak, SCC

called the Papal Zouaves at the Vati- and after a Mass of Christian Burial, blessed in a singular way as new Lincoln can. There only a couple of months, he was interred in the New Cathedral books featuring outstanding schol- Continued from 7 officials learned that he had an out- Cemetery in Baltimore, a far cry from arship continue to be beautifully standing arrest warrant out for his part the crudely dug grave his mother was As Mary walked to the gallows, written and ably published by pub- in the Lincoln Assassination. John buried in 51 years earlier. she saw the freshly dug graves by lishers willing to feed Lincoln junk- quickly escaped to Alexandra, Egypt, John Surratt gave several lectures the platform. She lost her composure ies. Fortune’s Fool, by Terry Alford, where he was soon captured and extra- explaining his role in the Lincoln As- and fainted. Two soldiers carried her is a superb new biography of John dited to the United States to face trial. sassination. He drew large crowds up the steps to her pending doom. Wilkes Booth. Not since 1929, have This trial, though, would be con- who paid fifty cents to attend his talks, “Shall I say something?” she we had a biography devoted to this ducted in civilian court where witness- at which he argued that he never knew asked Father Walter as she came to. troubled actor turned killer. Given es were not limited and the burden of of a plot to kill Lincoln and that the academic Mr. Alford spent 25 years The priest told her that it would do guilt was much higher. After some 170 her no good, but she persisted. conspirators’ only goal was to kidnap assembling sources for this book, it witnesses by the government and de- Lincoln and hand him over to the Con- is well worth the careful read. An- “I am innocent, but God’s will be fense, the jury deadlocked and a mis- federate government. And when the other great new book is Lincoln’s done!” she exclaimed. She kissed trial was declared by August 10, 1867. attempt in March 1865 failed, it was Final Hours by Kathryn Canavan, the priest’s crucifix and soon the He languished in prison until the next Surratt who told a table surrounded by who’s a journalist that knows how floor gave way, snapping her neck. summer when he was freed as govern- conspirators at his mother’s boarding to research and write in a fascinating Not so fortunate was Lewis Payne, ment prosecutors lost heart in conven- house that any plot was useless and manner. No mention of Lincoln’s who had stabbed Secretary of State ing a new trial as the country also was William Henry Seward, but he re- that they had better cease any planning Assassination can omit historian Ed- in the mood to move on from this sad for fear of being caught. markably survived the deep gash to chapter. ward Steers Jr., whose Blood on the “Everyone seemed to coincide with the throat. Payne twisted and strug- He soon took a job as a teacher in Moon and Lincoln’s Assassination my opinion,” Surratt told his lecture gled for more than five minutes as Rockville, Maryland, and then moved are gems, as well is his tome The listeners. “Except Booth, who sat si- the noose was not tight enough to to Emmitsburg, where he taught sev- Lincoln Assassination Encyclope- lent and abstracted. Arising at last and kill him quickly. Instead, the con- eral years at St. Joseph’s Catholic dia. The 1892, The Assassination of bringing his fist upon the table, he said, spirator grotesquely gasped for air, School. In 1872, he married Mary Lincoln: A History of the Great Con- ‘Well gentlemen, if the worst comes to bumping into Mary’s limp body in Victorine Hunter, and together they spiracy by T.M. Harris is a rare book the torrid heat. had seven children as they settled for the world, I shall know what to do.’” to have in your hands. It has primary By September, John had fled to good in Baltimore. In 1916, outliving Writer’s Note: source assassination material this England and then onto Rome, where all other Booth conspirators, he died Those interested in the dark his- writer relishes as much as he does he joined the protecting police guard of pneumonia at age 73 on April 21 tory of the Lincoln Assassination are A. Lincoln.