Bishops cite abortion Parish deregulation fears milestone in postelection St. , statement Grampian, celebrates A roundup of the 175 years, U.S. bishops’ fall page 4. meeting, page 2.

www.ErieRCD.org BI-WEEKLY NEWS BULLETIN OF THE DIOCESE OF ERIE December 7, 2008 Church Calendar Events of the local, American and universal church

Feast days

Youth rally inspires students to live out their faith through service By Jason Koshinskie St. Nicholas Our Lady of Guadalupe FaithLife editor Doug Tooke was bluntly honest with more than Dec. 6 St. Nicholas 200 high school students throughout the Erie Dio- Above, students work on Dec. 8 Immaculate Conception cese. their service project during Dec. 9 St. Juan Diego “You have no idea what God’s going to do in your the Nov. 15 diocesan high Dec. 11 St. Damasus I life,” said Tooke, who along with David Casey, was a school youth rally held at Our keynote speaker for the high school youth rally Nov. Lady of Peace Parish in Erie. Dec. 12 Our Lady of Guadalupe 15 at Our Lady of Peace in Erie. The project included a card Dec. 13 St. Lucy Tooke and Casey delivered their message with a and prayer rock reminder, brand of stories, humor and song. which were given to guests “Some of you are like, ‘I’ve got plans. I’m gonna of the Sisters of St. Joseph Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception play for the Knicks. If that doesn’t work out, I’m gon- Thanksgiving dinner. At right, – Dec. 8 (holy day of obligation) na go to med school,’” Tooke said, which was fol- youth participate in a concert lowed by laughter from the crowd. “’I’ve got plans, performed by Who Do You The Catholic belief that Mary was free from I’m gonna go to Ohio , I’m gonna be a physi- Say I Am? music ministry. original sin from the moment of her existence cians assistant and I’m gonna save the world.’ OK. was promulgated by Pope Pius IX in 1854. Good plan. Monday, Dec. 8, the Solemnity of the Immac- “Let me just be honest with you,” Tooke said. ulate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, “You have no idea, you have no clue. You do not patroness of the United States, is a holy day of know what God is going to do when you ask him to Youth ministry looks ahead to 2009 obligation in the United States. really sit and dwell inside of you. You don’t know. Get over it, embrace it, laugh about it, pray about it. And say, alright, how are you going to use me and Father Steve Schreiber shares his vision with youth leaders change me? Bring me to what you want to bring me By Jason Koshinskie Life in Washington is Jan. 21-22. Father Schreiber said. “With to.” FaithLife editor Plans call for youth to gather at 9 our diocese, as you know being The youth rally, themed “I Send You as Servants,” p.m. on Jan. 21 at St. Mark Cath- so large geographically, it’s hard was sponsored by the diocese’s Youth and Young Father Steve Schreiber, direc- olic Center for us to coordinate events like Adult Ministry. Each component of the rally was de- tor of youth and young adult in Erie. Af- this. But we’re going to do the voted to the topic of service to God and to others. ministry for the Erie Diocese, ter Mass, best we can.” Teaching about social justice issues, Father John laid out his vision for youth min- praise and He said it was possible to Santor, coordinator of the diocese’s Catholic Refu- istry in the diocese for 2009 and worship meet other groups along the gee Ministry, said the United States has increasingly beyond during the senior high and refresh- way and head down together. become a very diverse country. school youth rally Nov. 15 at ments, stu- „The youth rallies for mid- “This has been a real blessing for America, hav- Our Lady of Peace in Erie. dents and dle and high school students, as ing all kinds of different people and cultures,” Father Father Schreiber, who was chaperones they are currently constructed, Santor said. “It’s made America a very productive named to the post this summer will get on will be reorganized into region- and very rich country. But again, there are people and also serves as the diocese’s buses at al retreats and speakers. who are narrow-minded, people who are slow to ac- associate director of vocations, midnight Father Steve “In talking to a number of cept different kinds of people who speak a different spoke to about 30 youth leaders to head Schreiber you, we’ve come to the conclu- language and who have different values.” during one of the rally’s after- to Washington. After attending sion that it’s time to give the He shared some excerpts from the U.S. bishops’ noon sessions. a national youth rally and the youth rallies, as they are, a little pastoral letter, “Welcoming the Stranger Among Here are a few tidbits to come March for Life, buses will return break and try something new,” Us.” out of that meeting: by midnight on Jan. 22. Father Schreiber said. “The American Catholic bishops are telling us that „The next big youth event “Other groups from the dio- we should welcome the strangers among us because, is the Youth Stand 4 Life trip in cese will head down on their See YOUTH January. The annual March for own, and we encourage that,” MINISTRY, page 2 See RALLY, page 3

Retired Religious Fund Collection – Dec. 13-14 Not so retired religious Advent By the numbers: $51,361 Even in retirement, Sister Ann Retirement Fund for Average cost of skilled care for one religious Religious Collection – A season of joyful waiting for one year. (Below the national average of Amen brings others closer to God Dec. 13-14 Advent, the season of expectation leading $55,200) By Jason Koshinskie Today, 58 percent of women and up to the celebration of Christmas, began Nov. FaithLife editor $33,442.36 men religious are past the age of 70, 30. This joyful period prepares us for the com- Average cost of care in 2008 for religious past Sister Ann Amen, SSJ, says and 7 percent are past the age of 90. memoration of the Incarnation. age 70. her life has been beyond her Nearly 5,000 elderly religious in the dreams. U.S. need skilled nursing care. Advent calendar 21,520 In fact, she believes it so Most women and men religious An Advent family Religious with less than 20 percent of amount much that she used the phrase receive, on average, a Social calendar from Catholic needed for projected costs of living and health as the title for her autobiogra- Security Eene¿t of ,0 per Charities is available on care in retirement. phy. year the average U.S. Eene¿ciary the diocesan Web site Sister Ann, who celebrated receives ,98 annually. Though at www.ErieRCD.org. Data obtained from the National Religious Retirement community living provides economies 2f¿Fe NRR2 and ³7he 6enior &are $FTuisitions her 90th birthday in August, The printable calendar Report” from ,rYing /eYin $ssoFiates ,nF is one of the many religious of scale, health care and living costs includes a Scripture in the diocese who have lived in most religious communities far YHUVH UHÀHFWLRQ DQG Lessons & carols at St. Mark Seminary faithful and amazing lives that Sister Ann Amen, SSJ, poses exceed income from investments, activity for every day of have drawn others closer to with her autobiography, government programs and the season. – Dec. 15 God. And it’s on the weekend “Beyond My Dreams,” which compensated ministries. The public is invited to join Bishop Donald Traut- of Dec. 13-14 that the church she published in 2006 at the Jesse Tree man and the students of St. Mark Seminary for an takes up the Retirement Fund age of 88. of GIs and five American girls Faith magazine has created Jesse Tree ornaments evening of lessons and carols on Monday, Dec. 15 for Religious Collection. It’s a who were allowed to see her. WRKHOSUHÀHFWRQWKHVWRU\RIVDOYDWLRQIURPWKHFUHDWLRQ beginning at 7 p.m. chance for the church to give College and went to summer They went in about seven at a of the world through the birth of Jesus. This reflective meditation on the Advent season to many religious who gave school at Catholic University time. Download a free, printable set of Jesse Tree orna- includes music and Scripture. The program will be so freely of themselves during for her master’s and doctorate “I went into her bedroom ments at www.ErieRCD.org. Each of the 28 ornaments presented in the St. Mark Seminary chapel, located their ministry. degrees. and it was as though a voice is accompanied by a Scripture verse and explanation of at 429 E. Grandview Blvd., Erie. Sister Ann, a native of During World War II, she were saying to me that I what the symbol represents. The ornaments are avail- Quincy, Ill., lives at the Sisters was with the American Red should be a nun,” Sister Ann able in both small and large sizes. of St. Joseph Community Liv- Cross in Europe. She was says. “That was about 99th Read comments on the Jesse Tree from visitors ing Center, located on West stationed in England, France on a list of a hundred things I throughout the United States and abroad. Ridge Road in Erie. She says and working at thought I might be doing with she’s thankful for the many Red Cross Clubs for Seabees, my life. But I knew it was what Catholic Charities Advent Appeal opportunities to meet differ- which provided a place for God wanted me to do.” Catholic Charities has launched an Advent appeal ent people from all walks of service men and women to re- She says she joined the Sis- to support diocesan agencies that provide help and life during her active ministry. lax. ters of St. Joseph thinking she hope. “God has been very good In Germany, the Catholic would probably stay in Erie Donors can make a contribution to the organiza- to me,” she says. “He’s blessed chaplain called her one day the rest of her life. tion of their choice: Good Samaritan Center, St. Martin me abundantly and certainly and asked if she would like to “But I didn’t do that exact- Center, Prince of Peace Center, St. Elizabeth Center, taken care of me.” see Therese Neumann going ly,” she says. Counseling & Adoption Services, Christ the King Man- She was 33 when she en- through the . While teaching at Villa or, John XXIII Home, Harborcreek Youth Services and tered the Sisters of St. Joseph “I almost jumped through Maria College, she took her Catholic Charities. in Erie. But that was after she the telephone,” Sister Ann students down to Yucatan, Visit www.ErieRCD.org/charities.asp to print out a had lived in Europe, served as says. donation form. the dean of women at Quincy There were five truckloads See RETIREMENT, page 2 By the Way... from Catholic News Service Cathedral Preparatory School broke ground Nov. 7 for its Events Center at 12th IN THE U.S. „Allowing same-sex couples to mar- „The will resist any and Cherry streets in Erie, which will be the ry would strip marriage of its essential moves to legalize abortion in Kenya, future home to a multi-sport athletic facility „During this period of “severe eco- component — the creation of new life — said Cardinal John Njue of Nairobi. Car- for Prep, Catholic elementary schools and nomic downturn,” Christians must focus and render it meaningless and “open it up dinal Njue, president of the Kenya Episcopal the community. on faith and family rather than fear, Cardi- to endless revision and redefinition,” Bishop Conference, led hundreds of Catholics into The Cathedral Prep Events Center will be nal Roger Mahony of Los Angeles said in a Richard Malone of Portland, Me., said in a the streets to demonstrate against the Repro- built in three phases, with site work for phase new “spiritual reflection” on the economy. letter to Catholics in the statewide diocese. ductive Health and Rights Bill 2008, which one beginning this year. It will consist of a In a brief pastoral letter titled “Worrisome The bishop defended traditional marriage, would legalize abortion. He said the bill multi-purpose artificial turf field that will be Times,” the cardinal said the economic crisis writing that he believes opposing its redefini- should be opposed at all costs. Urging legisla- used for football, soccer and lacrosse, and an offers families an opportunity to return to the tion is a matter of faith, reason and a con- tors to vote against the measure, he reminded eight-lane, quarter-mile competition track. Jason Koshinskie true meaning of Thanksgiving and Christmas cern for the good of society. “To claim that them they were sent to parliament by voters to The cost of phase one will be approximately this year. “I have heard many voices sound marriage is a civil right open to all forms of make good laws. The cardinal described abor- $7.5 million and is one component of “The Campaign for Cathedral special alarm that these economic problems relationships is a misnomer,” he said in the tion as murder and said it showed disrespect Prep: A Vision for Today…A Legacy for Tomorrow,” which also are occurring at our annual Thanksgiving mid-November letter drafted after several for life and human dignity. includes $1 million in renovations to Prep’s science wing, completed and Christmas holiday season,” he said in Christian ministers at a news conference days in the summer, and a $1.5 million renovation for Cathedral Prep’s the Nov. 11 letter. “Actually, I believe that this earlier called for the state to legalize same-sex PEOPLE OF FAITH auditorium, scheduled for the summer of 2009. marriage. The letter is available at www.port- Prayers and get well wishes go out to Aaron Pfoutz, youth minis- presents us with a good opportunity to help St. Mary Queen of the World Sacred Heart us celebrate what is important: our faith, our landdiocese.net. „More than 10 years after her death, ter of , and parishes in Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta still St. Marys, who recently underwent successful cancer surgery. A day families and one another.” The reflection is Father Steve Schreiber available at www.la-archdiocese.org. AROUND THE WORLD has lessons to teach the world, according to after surgery, Pfoutz sent a text message to , the priest who co-founded the Missionaries director of youth ministry for the Erie Diocese that simply said, of Charity Fathers with her and has written a “We are blessed.” „Five months after being ordained „More than 30,000 people attended Gail Mayer be- new book about her. Father Joseph Langford, Congratulations to on her retirement from the Dio- the bishop of Little Rock, Bishop An- a Mass in Nagasaki, Japan, Nov. 24 cese of Erie on Nov. 25. For 27 years, she assisted in the Office of thony Taylor has issued his first pastoral let- atifying 188 Japanese martyrs. The ceremony a 57-year-old native of Toledo, Ohio, said he wrote Education and in the Chancery. ter in hopes of teaching his flock about the hu- was held in the city’s baseball stadium to cel- Representatives to the Maryknoll fathers and brothers 12th general man rights of undocumented immigrants. “I ebrate the of Jesuit Father Peter “Mother Te- resa’s Secret chapter, held at society headquarters in Ossining, N.Y., have elected Was a Strang- Kibe Kasui and 187 companions. The 188 veteran Latin America missioner Father Paul Masson, MM, a native er and You 17th-century martyrs were tortured and killed Fire” to try to explain of Oil City, to serve as assistant general for the next six years. Welcomed in different cities between 1606 and 1639 after The society’s new four-man general council, which took office Me: A Pasto- the Japanese government outlawed Christian- “what made Nov. 25, is responsible for leading some 530 priests and brothers serv- ral Letter on ity. During the Mass, which was concelebrat- Mother Te- ing in 27 countries worldwide. General chapters convene every six the Human ed by 10 cardinals and bishops, Cardinal Jose resa Mother years to hold elections and to set goals and policy for the society. Rights of Im- Saraiva Martins said martyrs of every age, Teresa” and Father Masson, 64, currently serves as pastor of La Virgen de la migrants” was place and time have all displayed the same how she sus- Luz Parish in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico, where he has lived introduced dedicated faith in Jesus Christ. tained hope, for the past 10 years while serving as a member of the Maryknoll Mis- to the priests joy and a sion Border Team. of the state belief in the Born in Oil City in 1943, he attended Rouseville grade school and Nov. 5 during possibility graduated from St. Joseph High School in Oil City in 1961. He was a study day. of change in ordained a priest in 1972 and holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy Bishop Taylor said he believes Catholics are the face of from Maryknoll College and a Master of Divinity degree from Mary- not properly informed about the human rights inner and ex- knoll Seminary. of immigrants. “I hope that people will open ternal chal- Maryknoll fathers and brothers, the U.S.-based Catholic foreign their hearts to the call of Jesus in our time,” lenges. “As America faces its own dark night mission society, has been representing U.S. Catholics in overseas he said. “More than that, I hope it goes down of the soul,” he said, Mother Teresa shows mission since 1911. They currently serve in 28 countries worldwide, from their head to their heart and (they) see Americans and the rest of the world “how to promoting human rights and social justice for those in need. what the Lord is asking of us. ... It is the big- live joyfully, creatively, in a way that leaves a gest area where the teaching of the church legacy.” Jason Koshinskie is editor of FaithLife. Contact him at JKoshinskie@ is not well-known.” The letter is available at ErieRCD.org or 814.824.1171. www.dolr.org. Even in retirement, Sister Bishops cite abortion deregulation Ann Amen brings others fears in postelection statement closer to God RETIREMENT, from page 1 include: transportation; visiting the homebound, the lonely, the Mexico. This was just as the Mis- bereaved or the newcomer; emer- A roundup of the sion of Friendship between the gency home help; minor repairs; Erie Diocese and Archdiocese of advocating for the disabled or Yucatan was getting started. companion relief for caregivers. U.S. bishops’ fall meeting “The Mexicans have such deep “It doesn’t cost the parish one faith in the face of tremendous cent, which is one of the things By Catholic News Service criticism that the latest English poverty,” Sister Ann says. “You that’s appealing to the parishes,” translation of the third edition of couldn’t help but be impressed Sister Ann says. “Not only that, BALTIMORE — Fears about the Roman Missal is plagued by by that. It was just a tremendous but people have the opportunity laws and changes in regulations obscure wording and sentences experience for the students and to use their talents to meet the on abortion that might advance that are too long, the U.S. bishops myself.” needs of their neighbor. To me, under a new Democratic-run approved another lengthy section During a sabbatical, she de- that’s the important thing.” Congress and White House are of the translation Nov. 11. cided that she’d rather work than When Sister Ann left Aus- the central focus of a statement Needing affirmation by two- go back to school. tralia, there were between 5,000 approved by the U.S. Conference thirds of the 264 Latin-rite U.S. “I think all the way along and 6,000 volunteers at 76 par- of Catholic Bishops Nov. 12 dur- bishops, or 176 bishops, the heav- the line, God was leading me to ishes. When she came back to ing its annual fall meeting. ily amended translation of the Australia because that’s where I Erie, she became director of the The majority of the 830-word, Proper of the Seasons — made up feel that I came up with the work diocese’s Parish Social Minis- untitled statement focuses on con- of the proper prayers for Sundays that God intended me to do,” she try for Catholic Charities. She cerns about the possible passage and feast days during the liturgi- says. worked in that capacity for 10 of the Freedom of Choice Act, cal year — received 189 votes in That work was the Parish Care years, setting up the outreach calling it “an evil law that would favor and 30 against. During the and Concern program. ministry throughout the diocese. further divide our country” and bishops’ meeting in Orlando, Fla., She went to Australia to work Today, the model of Par- adding that the church “should be in June, the document failed to get with the Catholic Family Welfare ish Care and Concern is used intent on opposing evil.” the required two-thirds majority. Bureau. The agency was working throughout the U.S. and abroad. It warns against interpreting „To fill a gap in existing on plans for parish social minis- It’s been continued in the dio- the outcome of the Nov. 4 elec- prayer books, the U.S. bishops tries, but the requirements were cese. tions as “a referendum on abor- overwhelmingly approved a litur- proving to be difficult. Any parish At the age of 82, she left tion” and says “aggressively pro- gical service in English and Span- that wanted an outreach program Catholic Charities but wasn’t abortion policies, legislation and ish for blessing children in the was required to employ a social sure what else she wanted to do. executive orders will permanently womb. worker with a master’s degree. “People said, ‘Why don’t you alienate tens of millions of Amer- Archbishop Joseph Kurtz of Sister Ann says she thought it write a book about your life?’ I icans.” Louisville, Ky., praised the new was a good idea, but there weren’t didn’t want the book published The statement was crafted blessing as “a tangible way to wit- enough social workers and it unless I thought it would bring during the bishops’ meeting in ness pastorally and sacramentally the U.S. bishops’ subcommittee next year. would have been too expensive. people closer to God.” Baltimore and involved a total of to the life of the unborn child” on the CCHD, said the U.S. bish- The task forces are on faith “You don’t need any kind of a Her editor, Sister Phyllis Hil- nearly three hours of discussion and said it could also serve as an ops’ domestic anti-poverty pro- formation and sacramental prac- degree to help your neighbor, and bert, SSJ, told her she thought during executive and public ses- opportunity for parishes to bring gram which supports community tice; strengthening marriage; the that was what it was all about,” it would. In 2006, Sister Ann sions Nov. 11. together expectant couples for groups, in June suspended $1.13 life and dignity of the human she says. released “Beyond My Dreams.” Other meeting actions: mutual support. million in previously authorized person; cultural diversity in the She developed Parish Care and In it, she details her encounters „In their statement on the „In a report to the bishops grants to ACORN affiliates. No church; and the promotion of Concern as a model of service in with St. Therese Neumann, economic crisis, approved Nov. Nov. 11, Auxiliary Bishop Roger new applications from ACORN vocations to the priesthood and which members of a parish com- Pope Paul VI in , Pope 11, they reminded people that Morin of New Orleans explained for the coming year were ap- consecrated life. munity volunteer for a year at a John Paul II and Mother The- “we are our brothers’ and sisters’ that the Catholic Campaign for proved, he added. „Almost lost in the busy time to meet some of the social resa of Calcutta in Australia and keepers. We are all in this togeth- Human Development cut off „In an action related to key Nov. 11 afternoon session was welfare needs of the parish and chronicles her many travels and er.” funding earlier this year to the As- priorities established earlier by the 2009 USCCB budget. The local community. Under the di- faith experiences. Adopted in a voice vote, the sociation of Community Organi- the bishops, the prelates agreed to bishops approved a budget of rection of volunteer coordina- The book is available at the brief statement released by Car- zations for Reform Now, known grant five task forces the author- $144 million, a 2.25 percent in- tors, parishioners provide servic- Sisters of St. Joseph Community dinal George on behalf of the as ACORN, for reasons unrelated ity to tackle issues ranging from crease from 2008. es to any needy person regardless Living Center, Hofmann’s Reli- bishops noted that “hard times to the organization’s current trou- strengthening marriage to address- of race, religion or ethnic affilia- gious Goods and the book stores can isolate us or they can bring us bles over voter registration and ing cultural diversity in the church For more information on the tion. at St. Mary’s Home East and As- together.” partisan politics. through 2011 and approved a host U.S. bishops’ fall meeting, visit Services depend on the spe- bury Ridge. „Despite some continued Bishop Morin, chairman of of goals for each task force for the www.usccb.org. cific needs of a parish but may

FaithLife Member of the Catholic Press Association. 7KHRI¿FLDOQHZVEXOOHWLQRIWKH Published bi-weekly. Owned and operated by the Bishop of Erie. CLOCK REPAIR Catholic Diocese of Erie Subscription $10/year. Available at Volume 4, Issue 22 For more information, call (814) 824-1161. Burdie’s Clock Shop Giant Eagle General Information: (814) 824-1161 7KH2I¿FHRI&RPPXQLFDWLRQVKDVEHHQ Fax: (814) 824-1170 serving Catholics in the Diocese of Erie VLQFH2I¿FHVDUHORFDWHGDW 238 South Main St. Riverside E-Mail: [email protected] St. Mark Catholic Center BiLo Editorial: (814) 824-1171 429 East Grandview Blvd., Erie, Pa. Cambridge Springs, PA 16403 Advertising: (814) 824-1168 Periodical postage paid at Erie, Pa. (814) 398-8263 and fine delis. Postmaster: Send address changes to FaithLife at St. Mark Catholic Center. “We Make House Calls” %rieÁ\ Youth rally inspires students to live out their Mall chapel Advent hours ERIE — The Roman Catholic Chapel at the Millcreek Mall in faith through service Erie will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday during Advent. The chapel is closed on Sunday. RALLY, from page 1 ner. And we’ll deliver hundreds of Priests are available for confession or conversation on Wednes- others to people who can’t get out. day from 2-4 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. as Jesus said, ‘I was a stranger This year, we decided to give them and you welcomed me,’” Father a little gift from the youth of the Santor said. diocese.” Handel’s ‘Messiah’ sing-along at He said Erie is a refugee- In small groups, students St. Patrick, Erie friendly city because of agencies wrapped small rocks in cloth, and many entry-level jobs. then tied them with string and at- ERIE — Join the Erie Philharmonic Chorus for a Handel’s He then introduced five young tached a prayer card to each one. “Messiah” sing-along from selected choruses with orchestral refugee boys from Burundi who The cards read: “Many blessings accompaniment on Tuesday, Dec. 16 at 7 p.m. at St. Patrick are studying and working in Erie. from the youth of the Erie Ro- Parish, 130 E. Fourth St. in Erie. Prior to coming to Erie, they man Catholic Diocese, November Anyone who has sung—or always wanted to sing—G.F. spent 10 years in refugee camps 2008. ‘May the Lord bless you and Handel’s most famous composition is invited to join the in Tanzania. The boys talked keep you … and give you peace.’ – 70-voice chorus. Participants who have a “Messiah” score are about the tough life in the camps Numbers 6:22-27.” encouraged to bring it that evening. and adapting to the culture in the The card asks the recipient to Admission is $5 per person, and all proceeds benefit the U.S. place the rock somewhere they Young People’s Chorus of Erie, the newest youth outreach The best way to help refugees will see it everyday as a reminder Sarah Pratt, a junior at Fairview High School and member of St. program in residence at Penn State Erie, The Behrend Col- is to be friendly, Father Santor to help them pray. “Pray to the Joseph Parish/Bread of Life Community in Erie, poses with the lege. said. Lord; ask him for help and guid- T-shirt she designed for the Nov. 15 high school youth rally. The sing-along will be conducted by Dr. Jason Bishop, conduc- “As our brothers and sisters, ance. Pray to the Lord, thank him tor of the Erie Philharmonic Chorus, founder and artistic director they have many gifts to share for his goodness,” it says. Schreiber. starts.” of the Young People’s Chorus of Erie and director of choral activi- with us,” he said. “They have After lunch, Who Do You Say With the theme “I Send You A few months ago, Pratt’s ties at Penn State Behrend. Organist Erik Meyer, cantor at Luther strong faith and trust in God and I Am? music ministry performed as Servants,” the youth attend- youth leader approached her Memorial Church, will be the accompanist. high family values.” in the OLP gymnasium. The min- ing the rally received a T-shirt about a design for the rally and For more information, call 814.898.6789. Sister Nancy Fischer, SSJ, in- istry includes a diverse group of designed by one of their peers. asked her if she could draw troduced the rally’s service proj- youth and music ministers from Sarah Pratt, a junior at something. All she knew was the Christmas cantata in Titusville ect. Each year, the Sisters of St. the Cleveland area. Fairview High School and mem- theme and that the thematic pas- Joseph and Marketplace Grill in “We’re just musicians who ber of St. Joseph Parish/Bread sage was the foot washing from TITUSVILLE — The Catholic community of Titusville will Erie provide a Thanksgiving din- like to praise and worship God,” of Life Community in Erie, said the Last Supper. present an afternoon of Christmas worship through music on Sun- ner for those who would not be lead singer Andy Andino told the she was excited to wear a shirt “That’s were I got the idea for day, Dec. 14 at 2 p.m. able to have one if it were not of- crowd. that she designed. the water pitcher and the basin,” The program, which will be held at St. Titus Parish in Titus- fered. The group performed popular “I don’t mind sharing the tal- Pratt said. “And then I figured ville, will include a Christmas cantata titled “And This Shall Be a “Every year, we serve about a cover and praise songs, as well as ent that I’ve been given with the since it’s God sending us as ser- Sign” with music score by Larry Shackley and lyrics by John and thousand people,” Sister Nancy original material. larger community,” Pratt said. vants, it would be appropriate to Audra Parker. This original work is an unusual blend of new mu- said. “Some of them line up at The final event was a youth “I figured I can start my ser- have Christ’s hands, which are sic coupled with familiar Christmas favorites in the context of the eight in the morning to get a din- Mass celebrated by Father Steve vanthood before the rally even indicated by the nail marks.” Christmas story. Christmas favorites incorporated into the cantata include “Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus,” “Silent Night” and “Joy to the World.” The choir, under the direction of Allison Molli-Mattis, includes the St. Titus choir, members of St. Walburga choir and others join- Father Steve Schreiber shares his vision with youth leaders ing them for this special musical experience. Additionally, several YOUTH MINISTRY, from page 1 schools. „To reach all areas of the the Catholic Leadership Insti- members of the group will perform solo works. “The idea is for him to make diocese, Father Schreiber said he tute, Notre Dame Vision and He then announced that the an impact on our students and is organizing an event for teens TEC (To Encounter Christ) Advent vespers and benediction of the diocese is hoping to bring in Ja- then to get them involved with he’s calling the “Hope and Power retreats. The National Catholic son Evert, “who’s probably the the Family Honor program and Tour.” These events would have Youth Ministry Conference is Blessed Sacrament at St. Peter Cathedral most in-demand chastity speaker to excite them,” Father Schreiber a focus on conversion, prayer, also set for Nov. 19-21, 2009 in ERIE — During Ad- in the country,” Father Schreiber penance and the , he Kansas City. vent, St. Peter Cathedral said. “He’s a young Catholic. He said, and will include a speaker, Father Schreiber noted that in Erie will use themes and his wife have three young “From all the opportunities for confession, the diocese’s Youth Ministry from the Year of St. children. He spends 170-plus days Mass and adoration. Office is available to aid groups Paul—the apostle of con- each year out on the road giving feedback we’ve “Instead of big rallies, we’re with resources for retreats and version—to pray for the talks to young people and parents heard, (Jason Evert) envisioning events like this and speakers. conversion and renewal about chastity.” going out to different places „In January, the office of all the people of God. The Archdiocese of Boston has truly impacts the throughout the year and hav- will also launch a redesigned All are invited for sung been bringing in Evert to speak ing nights like this,” Father Web site for youth, which will vespers and benediction at parishes for the past four years kids not just for that Schreiber said. include videos, a weekly mes- of the Blessed Sacrament and now has a two-and-a-half moment but also „With speakers and events sage, a Q & A section, saint of during the four Sundays year waiting list, Father Schreiber planned for high school stu- the day, vocation info, links, a of Advent at 4 p.m. said. down the road.” dents, Father Schreiber said the section for leaders, a place for Intentions include “That’s how successful his talks question remains about what feedback and diocesan calen- prayer for the success have been,” he said. “From all the — Father Steve to do to help form the faith of dar. of the newly elected of- feedback we’ve heard, he truly im- Schreiber middle schoolers. The middle “Please e-mail us all your ficials in bringing peace, pacts the kids not just for that mo- school youth rally for 2009 is stuff,” Father Schreiber said. prosperity and calm to ment but also down the road.” scheduled for April 18 at St. Ber- “We want to have everything in the United States; the The diocese will bring Evert in said. “We’d really like to make nard School in Bradford. there because it’s hard to know conversion of all people, for two days, but dates for his talks the emphasis next year on chas- “After that, we hope that what’s going on everywhere, especially for government won’t be known until January. tity.” is something you can help us and there’s some really neat officials, that they lead the U.S. to concern and love for all peoples “We’re probably looking at Family Honor offers family- with,” he said. “We’re looking stuff going on. No event is too of all ages; that all come to respect life; for the unborn; those who November or December of next centered programming with an for input from the youth lead- small. We want to list it.” are burdened and in need; and for the sick and aged. year,” Father Schreiber said. emphasis on chastity and sexu- ers.” E-mail events to sschreiber@ Evert will give six talks, with ality for both parents and chil- He pointed to programs that ErieRCD.org or llecce@Eri- Pa. Pro-Life Federation starts online pe- four of them taking place at high dren. are available for 2009 including eRCD.org. tition against FOCA

The Pennsylvania Pro-Life Federation, the state affiliate of OBERAMMERGAU PASSION PLAY National Right to Life, has established an online petition to stop s r Summer of 2010

FOCA, the Freedom of Choice Act. u

Possible FOCA legislation would wipe out virtually all restric- o February 6-16, 2009 tions on abor- T FOOTSTEPS OF JESUS TOUR *Travel with GE Retirees tion, including s Visit the Holy Land: Bethlehem, Jerusalem, and Collette Vacations u Pennsylvania’s 009 2 o Nazareth, Cana, Galilee, Dead Sea, etc. landmark Abor- i *10 to 13 days, with tour tion Control g For packet of detailed information call:

li of neighboring Act, which 724-722-3141 / Fax: 724-722-3140 or Call Richard Martin e would mean an email: [email protected] for details, (814) 866-1086 countries R end to parental and give your mailing address. Seating is limited. St. George Parishioner consent, informed consent and 24-hour waiting periods for abor- tion. It would also mean the return of the practice of partial-birth abortion. To sign the online petition against FOCA or for more informa- tion, visit www.paprolife.org. give the gift of Gannon University this holiday season People in the News The best gifts don’t fi t in a box. The gift of an education is a gift that keeps on giving, for the rest Father Ron Witherup to be keynote of your life. At Gannon we offer students an exceptional education speaker at Gannon’s winter at an affordable price. Located in Erie, Pennsylvania, Gannon University is just far enough away, but still close enough to go commencement Dec. 14 home for more than just the holidays. ERIE — Father Ron Witherup, SS, Gannon University... STD, superior general of the Society of the gift that keeps on giving. St. Sulpice and a native of Franklin, will be the keynote speaker at Gannon Uni- versity’s winter commencement on Sun- day, Dec. 14. Gannon President Dr. Antoine Garib- aldi will confer 327 degrees at the univer- sity’s Hammermill Center beginning at 2 p.m. Since 1947 Father Witherup attended Gannon from 1968-70, during which time he re- sided at St. Mark Seminary in Erie. He will be awarded an honorary degree dur- ing the ceremony. Father Ron Witherup At 11 a.m. on Dec. 14, the Gannon All your collision needs. Special Wash & Wax...$50 University community will convene for a special Mass at St. Peter Merry Christmas from Cathedral to honor the graduates. 453-6185 In 1976, Father Witherup was ordained a priest of the Diocese of Erie. He entered the Society of St. Sulpice in 1981. He is a Scrip- ture scholar and the author of 11 books and more than 80 articles on Scripture. He resides at the Sulpicians’ headquarters in Paris, Believe in the possibilities. France. Dave Ras Amy Ras Carol Ras Jim Winarski owner office office mgr. www.gannon.edu St. Bonaventure, Grampian, celebrates 175 years GRAMPIAN — St. Bonaven- ture Parish in Grampian recently observed its 175th anniversary with a Mass and dinner for parishioners. The theme was “Living the Journey of Faith.” The Mass began with a procession that included a banner representing religious education, the seal of St. Bonaventure which was presented by the parish council and a papal bless- ing offered by the St. Theresa Guild. Bishop Donald Trautman celebrated the anniversary liturgy. “There are two things that stand out about this parish,” said Father Benedictine oblates renew and commit Mark Swoger, pastor of St. Bo- naventure. “One is that the people ERIE — Nineteen people love to participate in the Eucharist. joined together Oct. 25 to renew It’s very lively. Second, they work their commitment to the Bene- hard to obtain their goals. When they dictine Sisters of Erie as oblates. set out to grow in their faith, they do Eighteen initiates and one transfer just that.” made their initial commitment. The Catholic community in and Oblates include men and wom- around Grampian Hills in the 1830s en from all walks of life with one was made up mostly of Irish immi- goal: to seek God through a life grants. The first church was blessed based on the Rule of Benedict in 1840 and was located and through a formal relationship at the site of the current with the Benedictine Sisters of church’s cemetery. It Erie. was serviced by itinerant At vigil prayer at Mount St. priests about every three Benedict Monastery, the oblates months. A second church rededicated themselves to sup- tine Nicoletti, Helen Gzanowicz lyn Schauble, OSB, oblate direc- was built in 1869. In 1897, porting the charism and corporate (transfer), Betsy Monsalve, Sar- tor. the third and current church was commitment of the Benedictine ah Signorino, (back row) Sister Those unable to attend in- completed. sisters. The sisters then blessed Christine Vladimiroff, OSB, pri- cluded: Ruth Brennan, Patricia and welcomed the oblates in a re- oress, Joyce Masquelier, Emma Cassidy, Shea Godwin, Mary Jo lationship of mutual support. Krueger, Mary Schwendeman, Minello, Jackie Muechenheim, Mercyhurst Prep takes first place in Bread Box Awards Pictured from left to right are: Caren Meyer, Marco Monsalve, Helen Schneider, Daniel Schuler (front row) Linda White, Chris- Melanie Titzel and Sister Mari- and Carol Smith. ERIE — Mercyhurst Prep High School took first place in Second Harvest Food Bank’s 20th Annual Bread Box Award Christian leadership fostered at DuBois Central Catholic for high schools. Proudly dis- DUBOIS — Members of DuBois playing the winning plaque are Central Catholic High School’s Class juniors J. J. Mitchell, Ryan of 2009 were invited to be a part of the Niedzwiecki, Lisa Medina, mandated training to become student Brianne Lockwood and Shan- eucharistic ministers at DCC, and 28 non McKnight. Mercyhurst also students chose to complete the train- won the Penny Challenge by col- ing. These students were inducted re- lecting more than $2,000. cently in front of their peers and their In 1989, Second Harvest Food families at a school Mass. Families of Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania the seniors were also invited to a recep- began the Bread Box Awards. tion afterward, hosted by other mem- This event, held in October in bers of DCC’s Campus Ministry. the food bank’s warehouse, rec- Central’s student eucharistic min- ognizes the efforts of groups isters are sanctioned by the Diocese and individuals who do projects our area. als, churches, organizations and of Erie to also serve this role in their for the food bank. The awards Awards are presented in nine small business/big business. home parishes. honor those who did the most categories: elementary schools, Mercyhurst Prep also won first Pictured, Kim Cadori, Meagan during the last year to increase middle schools, high schools, col- place in the high school category Thomas and Katie Plyler listen care- public awareness of hunger in leges/technical schools, individu- in 2007. fully to the list of responsibilities for their new role as student eucharistic ministers for their peers at DuBois Central Catholic. Father Mark Swoger Car raffle raises more than $86,000 for St. Michael School installed the students. GREENVILLE — Msgr. An- drew Karg, pastor of St. Michael Parish in Greenville, hands the St. Elizabeth of Hungary students make gifts to food bank keys over to Kyle McGrana- han of Greenville, winner of the SMETHPORT — The reli- 2008 Shelby Cobra GT500 Mus- gious education classes in grades tang. This was the 16th annual 1-4 at St. Elizabeth of Hungary car raffle to benefit St. Michael Parish in Smethport visited the School. The winning ticket was food bank of Christian Commu- drawn at the annual golf scram- nity Services (CCS) in Smethport ble held at Pine Hill Golf Course on Nov. 18 and contributed non- on Sept. 28. Tickets for the car perishable food items. raffle were sold in all 50 states At the same time, Amy Sage, plus four countries. facilitator of religious education Proceeds netted more than (pictured at left), presented four $86,000 in profit for the school. checks in the amount of $1,923.65 McGranahan decided to keep to the food bank, which supplies the car, valued at more than food to families throughout the $60,000, instead of taking the year. Ruth Covert, a volunteer at $30,000 cash option. The car was the food bank, accepts one of the autographed by racing and auto- St. Mary of Grace’s Centennial Year Pilgrimage to Italy checks. motive designer and former rac- • Please join us in celebrating our centennial year! St. Mary The money represents: $941, ing driver Carroll Shelby. of Grace is planning an eleven day tour of Italy with visits to the proceeds from St. Elizabeth’s Venice, Florence, Rome, and Assisi...just to mention a few! feast day dinner; $485 from the • We will be departing from Pittsburgh April 13, 2009 and religious education classes’ scare- returning April 23, 2009. The cost of the trip is $3,825 which crow contest; $300 from the par- includes roundtrip airfare, breakfast daily and dinners per itinerary, specially selected hotel accomodations, land ish’s annual ticket party; and transportation, taxes, tips, and current fuel charge. $197.65 from Operation Rice • For more information or to make reservations, please call Bowl. St. Mary of Grace’s parish office at (814) 333-6161 or CCS is supported by the The Travel Experience at (814) 724-1053. churches of the Smethport Area Ministerium.

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