Rosary remembrance Jesus Rome to mark Decoded anniversary of Pope John Paul Web site II’s death with separates fact rosary, page 2 from fiction in Da Vinci Code, page 3

www.ErieRCD.org BI-WEEKLY NEWS BULLETIN OF THE DIOCESE OF ERIE March 19, 2006 Confirmation Schedule St. Titus Parish, Titusville – March 19 St. John Parish, Tidioute – March 21 St. Mary Parish, Crown – March 24 Church Calendar Events of the local, American and universal church Feast of the Annunciation – March 25 "Then the angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, you will con- ceive in your womb and inety-eight catechumens and 190 candidates, along with bear a son, and you shall their sponsors, family and friends, packed St. Peter name him Jesus. He will be Cathedral, Erie, and St. Joseph Parish, Force, for the Rite great and will be called Son N of Election ceremony March 5. About 1,000 people par- of the Most High, and the ticipated at both locations. Lord God will give him the Bishop Donald W. Trautman presided over services at the throne of David his father, cathedral. Msgr. Robert Smith, vicar general of the Erie Diocese, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, presided at St. Joseph. and of his kingdom there will be no end.'" - Luke The Diocese of Erie will welcome all 288 1: 30-33 new members into its parishes at the April 15 Easter Vigil. Benedictine Sisters’ Forum on The Rite of Election, celebrated annually in Religious Life – March 25 cathedrals and churches around the world on the first Sunday of Lent, formally acknowledges The Benedictine Sisters’ 150th anniversary year the readiness of those preparing to receive the celebration continues in March with a forum for sacraments of initiation — baptism, confirma- women religious: “Where in the World is the tion and the Eucharist — at the Easter Vigil. Body of Christ?” The event, a conversation on the During the ceremony, candidates are called future of religious life, will take place on the Feast and come forth to greet the bishop. of the Annunciation, March 25 from 9 a.m. to 4 Catechumens are called and, accompanied by p.m. at Mount St. Benedict their godparents, come forth to sign the Book of Monastery. Sister Phyllis the Elect. The godparent places the right hand Schleicher, prioress of the on the shoulder of the catechumen as the book Benedictine Sisters from is signed. 1990-1998, will serve as Sr. Marie Kebort, SSJ, is the director of reli- honorary chair of the event. gious education at St. Patrick Parish, Erie, and The focus will be an exami- has been involved with the Rite of Christian nation of the theological Initiation for Adults (RCIA) for 11 years. She and ecclesial concepts that says the Rite of Election ceremony is a very pro- form the foundation to reli- found part of the RCIA process. gious life and how these are “When they go to the cathedral and they see expressed in the monastic all the people and hear their names called, it’s and apostolic traditions. really an experience for them,” Sr. Marie says. Invitations have been extended to women reli- For candidates and catechumens, they gious in the dioceses of Buffalo and Cleveland as come to the RCIA process in different ways, she well as Erie and members of the Leadership says: Their spouse may be Catholic; they may Conference of Women Religious Region IV. want to learn more about the faith; some come because they have missed the sacraments of Middle school youth rally Eucharist and confirmation or both and want to Elk County Catholic High School, get married; then you have people who just walk in. St. Marys – March 25 “They all come for different reasons and with different experiences,” Sr. Marie says. The theme of this year’s rally is Saving Grace. “God’s grace works differently in everybody.” Keynote presenter, the Catholic edu-tainer Bob This year, Sr. Marie has 12 people in her Perron of Stooge 4 Christ Ministries (Strive RCIA program from St. Patrick, St. Stanislaus Toward Obeying Our God Every Day), will blend and the Holy Family/St. Casimir/St. Ann clus- humor and education ter. Right from the beginning, parishes are focused on receiving and involved in welcoming members of the RCIA Top photo by Jason Koshinskie, bottom photo by Theresa Dayton. giving grace. Spreading the class. Gospel in song, also fea- Top, Bishop Donald W. Trautman greets a candidate during the Rite of Election at St. Peter tured will be popular bilin- See RITE OF ELECTION, page 3 Cathedral. Bottom, Msgr. Robert Smith poses with the elect at St. Joseph Parish in Force. gual (English and Spanish) Christian band, Who Do You Say I Am. Other rally activities include living stations, a service project activity and a vibrant youth Mass. Reconciliation – experiencing Dedication of new church addition Faith magazine and office space, St. Michael Parish, the mercy and healing of Jesus We are fast approaching Holy Catholic life? We are often ashamed Greenville – March 25 at 5:30 p.m. seeks Teen Week, the holiest week of the year, of our weakness and selfishness, fear- Last year, St. Michael’s when we will commemorate the ful of our inability to change and puz- broke ground on a major of the Year death and rising of Jesus. During the zled as to what we should do. Just as renovation project. Plans past weeks of our Lenten journey, the God reassured Israel through the called for the sanctuary to Lord has called us to conversion. The prophet Jeremiah, “I love you with be extended back by 40 feet, nominations Lord asks us to step back and reflect an everlasting love,” so now through on our way of life, that we the priest in the sacra- creating space to enlarge the Faith magazine is looking for church’s seating capacity might have a change of ment of penance, God young people who will inspire their heart and draw closer to reassures us of his con- from 325 to 550. A new peers by their character, achievements, administration building and gathering space have him. As we rapidly stant love. That love never commitments and/or activities. All are invited to nominate a young approach Holy Week, we wavers despite our sins. also been built. Bishop Donald Trautman will person between the ages of 13 and 19 as one of Faith magazine’s dedicate the project. shall recall our Lord lay- His mercy gives us new 2006 Teens of the Year. Nomination forms are available at ing down his life for our hope. www.eriercd.org/faithcurrent.asp or can be requested by calling salvation. We have all Many are my sins First anniversary of death of Pope Faith at 814.824.1160 or 800.374.3723 ext. 160. made this Lenten journey but greater is God’s John Paul II – April 2 Two Teens of the Year will be photographed and interviewed before, but this Lent must mercy. Christ has given us for the September 2006 cover story as well as given the opportunity be different. This must be a sacrament in which he 23rd annual Holy Week retreat with to designate a $150 donation to the organization of their choice. All a time of turning toward grants us full pardon – the Benedictine Sisters of Erie – nominations must be received in the Faith office, 429 E. Grandview God with new love and total amnesty. Confession Blvd., Erie, PA 16504, by Monday, April 17. determination. This must Bishop Donald is a sacrament that April 12-16 be a time of reconcilia- Trautman bestows upon us the joy Comfort My People – Deepening the Jubilee Heart will tion. of forgiveness. We have be led by the Benedictine Sisters of Erie and Fr. The Lord has given us the sacra- all belonged at one time to those Sister parish tribute to St. Joseph ment of penance – reconciliation. We “who did not know what they were Donald Cozzens, a visiting professor of religious Each year, one family from the studies at John Carroll University and a priest of need to confess our sins and experi- doing.” But we have heard Jesus’ parish of San José Obrero (St. ence the mercy and healing of Jesus. prayer from the cross, “Father, for- the Diocese of Cleveland. The retreat includes Joseph the Worker) in the Holy Week liturgies, prayer, serving a meal at The sacrament of reconciliation give them. They do not know what Archdiocese of Yucatan, sister to affords us the opportunity for new they are doing.” Suddenly, we discov- Emmaus Soup Kitchen, a seven-mile peace pil- the Erie Diocese, receives the grimage with public Station of the Cross and life. Let us not put off our coming ered forgiveness and joy that comes honor of clothing, decorating and home to the Father. from a new life in Christ. reflection time. For more information, contact Sr. taking care of the parish statue of Carolyn Gorny-Kopkowski at 814.899.0614 ext. Forgiveness is a profound trans- This Lent we need to pray Psalm St. Joseph. Note that this year, St. action. Not to forgive others who 51, “Be merciful, God, for we have 2402, e-mail [email protected] or visit Joseph is wearing a carpenter's www.eriebenedictines.org on the Web. have hurt us is to be imprisoned by sinned.” This is the perfect Lenten apron featuring a real hammer. the past, to be imprisoned by old psalm. We need to pray it as we pre- Pope Pius IX proclaimed Joseph grievances that do not permit life to pare for the sacrament of reconcilia- Clergy appointment as the patron of the universal proceed with new business. Not to tion. And let us reflect on the words church in 1870, honoring him for forgive is to yield oneself to another’s of this psalm: “A clean heart create The Most Rev. Donald W. Trautman, the support, protection and guid- control. If one does not forgive, then for me, O God, and renew your spirit STD, SSL, Bishop of Erie, announces the fol- ance he provided and naming one is controlled by the other’s initia- within me.” lowing clergy appointment: March 19 as his feast day. Pope tives and is locked into a sequence of Fr. William Fischer, OSFS, appointed Pius XII added a second feast hon- outrage and revenge – an eye for an part-time chaplain of St. Mary’s Home at oring St. Joseph the Worker, cele- eye and a tooth for a tooth. Asbury Ridge, Erie, while continuing in the brated May 1. ministries and residence assigned by his reli- Forgiveness frees the forgiver. Most Rev. Donald W. Trautman, gious community. Effective March 1, 2006. San José Obrero is the sister Photo by Art Becker Why is the sacrament of penance STD, SSL parish of St. Michael in Greenville. and reconciliation so important in Bishop of Erie NEWS BRIEFS By the Way... Rome to mark anniversary of Pope John Paul’s death with rosary Mercyhurst College official- ROME (CNS) — The Diocese of ly welcomed Dr. Thomas J. Rome will mark the first anniversary Gamble as its new president on of Pope John Paul II’s death April 2 his first day March 1. Dr. with the nighttime recitation of the Gamble addressed the commu- rosary in St. Peter’s Square. Cardinal nity for the first time as presi- Camillo Ruini, papal vicar of Rome, dent March 6. said the 9 p.m. rosary would allow Dr. Gamble holds a doctor- Catholics “to relive the climate of ate in psychology from intense prayer that accompanied the Syracuse University and a passing of Pope John Paul II to his magna cum laude B.A. in phi- definitive encounter with the Lord.” losophy from Gannon Thousands of people were in St. University. He is a post-doctor- Peter’s Square praying the rosary and al graduate of the Bush Center Jason Koshinskie keeping vigil when the pope died. for Child Development and Announcing the anniversary rosary Social Policy at Yale University. Feb. 25, the Diocese of Rome said A formal inauguration is scheduled for Sept. 16. Pope Benedict XVI will greet those CNS photo Sister Maura Smith, RSM, will be honored March 28 by gathered in St. Peter’s Square from the Rosary vigil: The faithful gather in prayer in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican April 1, 2005 for Pope John Paul II. Mercyhurst College and its Religious Studies Department with window of his apartment. its Archbishop Oscar Romero Award. The award recognizes Sister Maura as staunch advocate of peace, justice and sustain- U.S. Press Agency reported that Catholic Church Statistics Institute fig- ability. She is the 12th recipient of the Romero Award, which is ures showed 43 percent of Catholics attended Sunday Mass regular- presented annually to an individual “living the call of faith and ly in 2004, compared to 47.5 percent in 2000. Under communist rule justice in an extraordinary manner.” Catholic health care groups to run medical clinic in the 1980s, church attendance was 60 percent; in 1991 it was 50 A member of the Mercyhurst College Board of Trustees, outside New Orleans percent. Father Zdaniewicz said the data had to be looked at “holis- Sister Maura is a former president of the Sisters of Mercy Erie tically — we can’t just consider bare numbers and percentages.” Regional Community and former principal of Mercyhurst CHALMETTE, La. (CNS) — Six months after Hurricane Katrina, Preparatory School. She is active in promoting issues of justice St. Bernard’s Parish, a civil entity just east of New Orleans, looked as Vatican Radio employees present pope with iPod and peace on the Mercyhurst campus and the Erie community. if the hurricane just occurred. There was no longer standing water, In honoring Sister Maura, the college recognizes a woman of but the businesses, homes and shopping centers in the small towns VATICAN CITY (CNS) faith whose vision, tenacity and creativity have spawned so many and neighborhoods were completely in shambles. Ten percent, or — A group of Vatican successful initiatives over the years, including the Mercy Center 7,000 residents, have returned to an area with almost no electricity or Radio employees gave for Women, Erie DAWN, the Learning Differences Program at running water. On March 4, the parking lot of the Wal-Mart Pope Benedict XVI a Mercyhurst College and the Mercyhurst Green Team. Stairways Supercenter in Chalmette was as packed as it may have been in its brand new iPod nano Behavioral Health, the Healthy Youth Development Council, pre-Katrina days, but the people were there to get free lunches from a loaded with special Partnership of Women Religious and the Congregational Action charity-run food tent, consult officials from the Federal Emergency Vatican Radio program- to Life with Love are other community organizations to which Management Agency or insurance workers in trailers on-site, or ming and classical she has lent her dedication and expertise in recent years. receive health care at a triple-wide trailer run by three local doctors The OLP Playhouse will present a reader’s theater produc- music. To honor the The with financing and staffing assistance from the U.S. Public Health CNS photo tion of Pope John Paul II’s most widely produced play, pope’s first visit to the Jeweler’s Shop Service. The federal contract for the clinic, which has been seeing radio’s broadcasting iPope: Pope Benedict XVI participates , the weekend of March 31-April 2. Billed as “a about 150 patients a day, is about to run out. Two Catholic health headquarters, the radio’s in a live broadcast during his visit to poetic drama exploring aspects of human existence through love care systems — Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System technical staff decided Vatican Radio March 3. The radio's and marriage,” The Jeweler’s Shop is a thought-provoking reflection based in Baton Rouge and Ascension Health in St. Louis — have the pencil-thin, state-of- staff gave the pope an iPod nano as a planned to honor the late pope on the first anniversary of his stepped in and are planning to run the clinic in the near future. the-art audio player gift. Vatican Radio offers podcasts in death. Due to the complexity of the material, director Heidi would make the perfect eight different languages. Arnold said the play is more appropriate for an adult audience. The ensemble cast of 7 will perform at the Our Lady of Peace WORLD gift. Now that Vatican Radio offers podcasts in eight different languages, the pope has the School gymnasium on Friday, March 31 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, technological capability to plug in and import the radio’s audio files. April 2 at 2 p.m.; and at Holy Trinity Parish, Erie on Friday, Vatican document says church fails to defend Pope Benedict visited the programming and broadcasting hub of April 1 at 7:30 p.m. “the pope’s radio” March 3 to mark the station’s 75th anniversary. The show will be taken on the road the weekend of April 21- Gypsies from prejudice 22; parishes located outside of Erie County interested in hosting the show should call Mary Ann Muller, producer, evenings at VATICAN CITY (CNS) 814.824.2630. — Despite movements PEOPLE to protect minorities and Jason Koshinskie is editor of FaithLife. Contact him at to value other cultures, [email protected] or 814.824.1171. civil society and even the Author says McGivney bio could help restore Catholic Church often respect for priests fail to defend Gypsy communities from bla- ROME (CNS) — Supporters of the sainthood Ghanaian proves Operation Rice Bowl is effective tant prejudice and dis- cause of Father Michael McGivney are hop- crimination, a new ing that he will become the first American- PORTLAND, Ore. (CNS) — Thomas Awiapo is living proof that Vatican document said. CNS photo born parish priest to be canonized. A new the coins and bills Catholics stuff into cardboard rice bowls each “From habitual preju- Life of a Gypsy: A Gypsy family shares biography is introducing a wider audience to Lent can cultivate hope out of hardship. As an orphan in the village dices to signs of rejec- a modest meal in a tent that serves as the 19th-century priest — and may also help of Wiaga, Ghana, young Thomas survived by begging and becom- tion,” Gypsies still suffer their home in the southern Iraqi city of restore respect for the many good priests in ing a child laborer. He would move from farm to farm, offering to exclusion and expulsion, Ad Diwaniyah in this Nov. 2 file photo. the United States, said one of the book’s work for food. He had never even considered going to school. The “often without any reac- authors. Julie M. Fenster, a historian who co- idea was beyond his world — until he heard that students got lunch. tion or protest from those who witness them,” said the document wrote “Parish Priest: Father Michael School was for him, he decided. Catholic Relief Services, the U.S. from the Pontifical Council for Migrants and Travelers. The council’s McGivney and American Catholicism,” bishops’ international relief and development agency, provided the “Guidelines for the Pastoral Care of Gypsies” was released at a Feb. spoke about the book to U.S. priests and seminarians Feb. 27 at food that drew Awiapo. He sat through classes mostly for the meal 28 Vatican press conference. Msgr. Bruno Nicolini, who coordinates Rome’s Pontifical North American College. At a time when the of wheat and sorghum cereal and milk powder. “The crux of the pastoral work among Gypsies in the Diocese of Rome, said the doc- image of the U.S. priest has been damaged by sexual abuse commit- matter is that if there had not been that snack at school, which was ument provides ideas and norms for ministry, “but it will be more dif- ted by a small minority of clergy, the book chronicles the good work paid for by Catholic children and adults from the U.S., my life would ficult to change the ideas of the people of God. It will take longer of a priest who, after founding the Knights of Columbus, worked as have been much different,” Awiapo told the Catholic Sentinel, news- than establishing specific pastoral projects because people have to be a simple pastor until his death at age 38. “I’m hoping this book paper of the Portland Archdiocese. “I am grateful for their sacri- convinced that we can live together.” might act as a gyroscope to reset some of the balance for people fices.” Today Awiapo works for CRS in the northern Ghanaian city whose only exposure to parish priests is out of those headlines” on of Tamale, and he recently toured U.S. cities on behalf of CRS and Polish statistician downplays study showing decline sexual abuse, Fenster said in an interview. Operation Rice Bowl. in Mass turnout WARSAW, Poland (CNS) — A church statistician downplayed a Sacred Heart School recent study showing a continued decline in Mass attendance in Nourishing Both Mind and Spirit Poland. “Mass attendance is only one way of measuring a society’s religiousness,” said Pallotine Father Witold Zdaniewicz, professor REGISTRATIONREGISTRATION and director of the Warsaw-based Catholic Church Statistics Institute. “The data clearly show a persistent drop in numbers going Sunday,Sunday, MMarcharch 226th:6th: 110:45am0:45am - 11:00pm:00pm to church, but the causes and explanations vary considerably.” Father Monday,Monday, MarchMarch 27th:27th: 2:30pm2:30pm - 5:30pm5:30pm Zdaniewicz told Catholic News Service that results of a Sunday 2501 Plum St. • 459-7247 • www.shschargers.org Mass head count taken in November would be announced before Pastor: Fr. John Detisch • Principal: Jeff Lipiec Pope Benedict XVI’s May 25-28 visit. In mid-February, the Polish Character, Compassion, Values...in the heart of Erie We sponsor BUS TOURS to Pittsburgh, Cleveland, North Tonawanda and Buffalo to hear The Mighty Wurlitzers $40 for members, $45 for non-members Since 1947 Price includes show ticket, and round trip bus. RETREAT FOR PRIESTS Erie Area Theatre Organ Society Call Joe Luckey at 871-7276 All your collision needs. Leave your number for a return call. Special Wash & Wax...$50 453-6185

CLOCK REPAIR Presented by Fr. Richard Gielow, CM DaveDave RRasas AmyAmy RRasas CarolCarol RasRas JimJim WinarskiWinarski Burdie’s Clock Shop Ordained as a Priest of the Congregation of the Mission of St. ownerowner officeoffice officeoffice mgr.mgr. Vincent DePaul in 1970, Fr. Gielow served for five years as Director of Vocations for the Vincentian Fathers and Brothers, and for six years as 238 South Main St. rector and principal of St. John’s High School Seminary in Kansas City. St. Brigid Parish, Meadville, PA He holds a B.A. in Philosophy, an M.Div. in Theology from DeAndreis Cambridge Springs, PA 16403 Institute of Theology, and an M.A. in Religious Education from Catholic University in Washington, D.C. Fr. Gielow is currently Director of the (814) 398-8263 Vincentian Parish Mission Center in Kansas City and is the National FishFish DinnersDinners Spiritual Advisor to the Ladies of Charity of USA. Listed in “Who’s “We Make House Calls” Who” as a “well-known preacher and Retreat Director,” he has been a member of the Vincentian Parish Mission team since 1982. 6 Lenten Fridays from 4:30 - 6:30pm CHRIST THE KING RETREAT HOUSE in McCrory Social Hall. FaithLife Published bi-weekly. Owned and operated by 500 Brookford Rd. Dinner includes: The official news bulletin of the the Bishop of Erie. Syracuse, NY 13224 Subscription $10/year. Catholic Diocese of Erie Located in a quiet residential area, minutes away from baked or fried haddock, potatoes, vegetable, For more information, call (814) 824-1160. downtown, yet away from the noise of the city, the Retreat cole slaw or apple sauce, bread, butter & beverage. Volume 2, Issue 6 The Office of Communications has been serv- House offers peaceful places to read, study, relax and pray. A Sundae Bar is available for an additional $1.00 In addition to conferences and liturgy, there will be time to enjoy General Information: (814) 824-1160 ing Catholics in the Diocese of Erie since Fax: (814) 824-1170 1874. Offices are located at St. Mark Catholic the peaceful grounds and gardens. Refresh yourself in our private, Cost: $7.00 for adults; $3.50 for children 5-12; Center, 429 East Grandview Blvd., Erie, Pa. heated and spacious pool. Come for a week of rest and renewal. FREE for 4 & under. E-Mail: [email protected] Periodical postage paid at Erie, Pa. First conference begins at 7 p.m. on Monday, June 19 Also available, Macaroni & Cheese Dinner for $5.00. Editorial: (814) 824-1171 Retreat ends at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 23 Take-outs available. Advertising: (814) 824-1168 Postmaster: Send address changes to Offering $300 FaithLife at St. Mark Catholic Center. Call (315) 446-2680 for reservations Member of the Catholic Press Association. What happens during the The bishop invites the catechumens to sign the Rite of Rite of Election? book of the elect. During the act of admission or election, the bishop declares that the catechu- The church formally announces the names of mens are members of the elect, to be initiated at those who will soon celebrate the sacraments the next Easter Vigil. Election of initiation. Those who are named will cele- from page 1 brate baptism, confirmation, and first com- munion at their parishes during the Easter What is a candidate? One of the first things class- Vigil. These individuals enter the cathedral as es do is talk about why they are “catechumens” and leave as “elect.” One who is baptized in another Christian tradi- there. That, Sr. Marie says, leads tion or who was baptized Catholic but not to open faith sharing. Classes The key moments of the rite are the affirma- formed in the faith. also focus on Catholic practices, tion by the godparents and the act of admission the sacraments, church history, or election. In the affirmation, the godparents What is a catechumen? social justice and moral living. testify that the catechumens are worthy to be “By the time the Easter Vigil initiated. Their testimony reveals the church’s One who is preparing for baptism in the church. comes around, they are positive judgment about the catechumens’ immersed in the faith,” Sr. desire and behavior. “Christ kept to his course given him by the Marie says. Father. Christ resisted the devil and won. We, too, are winners if we stay the course given us by God. When you become U.S. bishops launch Jesus Decoded Web site disillusioned or discouraged or doubtful, By Catholic News Service the book and forthcoming movie. imitate Christ. Resist the temptation. WASHINGTON — A new There also is an essay by Keep to the course given you by God. Web site sponsored by the U.S. Harry Forbes, director of the bishops’ Catholic Communica- U.S. bishops’ Office for Film & His strength is sufficient for you. tions Campaign has been estab- Broadcasting, on the marketing Don’t lose heart. Begin anew.” lished to provide accurate infor- hype behind the movie; and a – Bishop Donald Trautman, speaking to catechumens mation about the life of Jesus, commentary, “What’s Wrong the origins of Christianity and and candidates at the Rite of Election March 5 at With The Da Vinci Code?”, writ- St. Peter Cathedral. Catholic teaching prior to the ten by Father John Wauck, a release of the movie based on U.S. priest of Opus Dei, the per- the best-selling novel The Da sonal prelature which figures Vinci Code by Dan Brown. prominently in the novel. The Web site, www.jesusde- The site also has production coded.com, was launched information on the CCC’s Jesus March 9. A film version of the Decoded TV special, including book is slated for nationwide information on air dates and release May 19. times in cities around the United The site contains Catholic States. The program, shot on The homepage of www.jesusdecoded.com teachings about information location in Israel, Turkey and that was fictionalized in the pop- Italy, includes interviews with councils. Jesus that sprung from the most ular novel, including the nature international scholars versed in “There’s a level where this authentic and reliable sources of Jesus; his relationship with art, history and Scripture who book is appealing to people,” about him,” Schreck said. “And Mary Magdalene; the first four “help separate Catholic truth Schreck told CNS. “That is there were many sources about ecumenical councils of the early from popular fiction.” It has what makes it dangerous to him that were being promulgat- church and how they shaped been offered to NBC affiliates, someone, if they believe it’s a ed.” today’s teaching about Jesus; but each affiliate’s management historical representation or an - - - contemporaneous accounts of makes the decision whether to accurate theological presenta- Jesus’ life that were not selected air it. tion.” The Jesus Decoded TV special “We understand that in order to fully realize for the New Testament; the role “Many of my students and Rather than cover up the will be available by mid-April our lives in freedom, the trial that freedom of women in the church myself included enjoy a good, truth about Jesus, as the novel on DVD from USCCB throughout history; and the fast-paced novel, and enjoyed suggests, the early church coun- Publishing for $19.95. A com- itself brings, that is, temptation, must be “Last Supper” paintings by The Da Vinci Code on that level, cils tried to uncover the truth, panion booklet, The Authentic overcome. Only freed from the slavery of Leonardo da Vinci and other as a tall tale of adventure,” said according to Schreck. Jesus, sells for $2.50, and a box falsehood and sin thanks to obedience to the artists of his era. Alan Schreck, chairman of the In those councils, the partic- of 100 parish bulletin inserts on faith that opens him to the truth can the Also found on the site are a theology department at the ipants “asked critical questions the same theme sells for $12. human person find the full meaning of his Catholic News Service “Vatican Franciscan University of and had entertained different Prices do not include shipping existence and obtain peace, love and joy.” Letter” column by John Thavis, Steubenville in Ohio, who con- views of who Jesus was, his mis- and handling. Orders may be the CNS Rome Bureau chief, on tributed an essay to the Web site sion, and in this process saw the placed by phone at: – Pope Benedict XVI, meditating on biblical desert the level of Vatican reaction to on early church ecumenical need to clarify the truth about 800.235.8722. scenes prior to his weeklong Lenten retreat March 5-11. Despite difficult year, Catholic Charities USA chief sees signs of hope, gratitude

By Nancy Frazier O’Brien challenges. of commu- petitioned the government to raised a record $154 million to Catholic News Service “They say nications distribute the food to hurricane assist in hurricane recovery that a tragedy Relief Money after a dis- victims, but got no response. efforts, including substantial ALEXANDRIA, Va. — It tests the moral Raised Recipients of Aid aster, for Eventually the agency donations from Catholic chari- hasn’t been an easy first year for fiber, and Katrina example, decided to distribute the food table organizations worldwide, Father Larry Snyder as presi- and Rita tested and that that was so desperately needed, including Korea, Canada and 45% 31% there be Germany. dent of Catholic Charities USA. the moral fiber of 55% Father Snyder said. “After the spent children There have been battles over this country,” not yet 66% “bureau- food was all gone, the permis- The hurricanes taught the spent adults cratic sion from the government final- nation one lesson that Father immigration reform and the fed- Father Snyder 3% Fr. Larry seniors accommo- Snyder and local Catholic eral budget, struggles to keep said. “But it also Snyder ly came through,” he said. the needs of the poor and vul- tested the church dation” to Since the hurricanes hit last Charities workers have always nerable in the public eye, and, and the Catholic $154 million allow for quick response to August and September, known — the poor are the hard- looming over everything for the Charities net- Examples of Relief Provided human needs in an emergency Catholic Charities has assisted est hit when disasters strike. situation without too much gov- In New Orleans, 30 percent past six months, the tragic work, and we + 40 million pounds of food distributed more than 300,000 victims of effects of hurricanes Katrina came out of it + 166,170 people received direct financial ernment red tape. Katrina and Rita — including of the poor didn’t have cars to and Rita in the Gulf Coast looking pretty assistance He cited the case of New 87,000 children and 10,000 sen- leave the city, the priest noted. + 42,580 people received case management region and the massive recon- good.” assistance Orleans’ Second Harvest iors. More than $69 million has Although there was an emer- struction effort now under way. The priest, + 3,000 people received medical or agency, which operates under been allocated to 76 local gency evacuation plan in place, But through it all, the priest who has headed prescription assistance the Catholic Charities umbrella Catholic Charities agencies and “many pieces fell apart,” he of the Archdiocese of St. Paul Catholic ©2006 CNS Source: Catholic Charities USA there and had “warehouses full other Catholic organizations added. Even though buses were and Minneapolis has found Charities USA of food” that had been given by helping families and individuals available to evacuate the poor, signs of hope, gratitude for the since Feb. 1, 2005, spoke to Hurricane Katrina and the the government for seniors. affected by the hurricanes. for example, many of the bus world’s generosity and a Catholic News Service at the flooding that followed. After Katrina hit, the agency In all, Catholic Charities drivers had already left the city. renewed appreciation for the organization’s headquarters in Father Snyder said he was tens of thousands of Catholic Alexandria Feb. 23, the day the pleased that the report included Charities staff members and Bush administration released its several recommendations made volunteers around the country report on “lessons learned” by Catholic Charities — that the who have stepped up to the new from the federal response to government ensure better lines Please silence OBITUARY our Redemptorist growlinggrowling Father Charles Fehrenbach stomachs dies at 96 Redemptorist Father Charles Your donation to Fehrenbach, 96, who taught and mentored many of the confreres of Operation Rice Bowl the Baltimore Province, died Feb. 6, 2006 at St. John Neumann “helps people like me Residence in Saratoga Springs. “He was a father to so many of who are hungry us,” said Redemptorist Father John McGowan. “He was well known throughout the world and loved by us and also by the and in your community. diocesan priests of Erie.” His was the longest line of penitents waiting It is the beauty of silence. to speak to him in confession at St. Mary’s Seminary in North East, Fr. I appreciate your help. McGowan added. Fr. Fehrenbach was assigned to St. Mary’s Seminary, where he served as registrar and taught from “ 1942 to 1959. “He loved to be in the middle of Support Operation Rice a crowd,” said Father John Hamrogue, a confrere who met him Bowl through your parish at St. Mary’s Seminary. He not only enjoyed time with his family, but during Lent. also with the priests of the Diocese of Erie, where he was well known and appreciated for helping out To learn more, contact Rose Graham with Masses, preaching and teach- ing special Lenten courses in the 1-800-374-3723 ext. 258 parishes, Father Hamrogue said. St. Andrew students learn about art through Kids as Curators program St. Andrew School in Erie was one of several schools to partici- pate in this year's Kids as Curators exhibit at the Erie Art Museum. The students' inter-genera- tional exhibit, For Old Time's Sake, was created by 24 seventh- and eighth-grade students at St. Andrew School, drawing from the collections of the entire St. Andrew community. The class requested loans of collections from their communi- Cathedral Women's Council celebrates 15 years, ty through their parish newslet- hosts Garden Party May 9 ter, and students brought in pieces of their own. They identi- Two displays from St. Andrew School’s Kids as Curators exhibit at The St. Peter Cathedral fied five categories within the the Erie Art Museum featured religion in the home (left) and media. Women's Council is in high larger collection that revealed gear as it prepares for its crystal both commonalities and differ- mate, sacred environment for Council of Erie in partnership anniversary Garden Party on ences between the generations, private prayer. with the Pennsylvania Council Tuesday, May 9 to celebrate 15 including religion, clothes, The displays were on exhibit on the Arts. Additional residen- years of Catholic service to the media, sports and toys. Five at the Erie Art Museum's annex cy funding was made possible Erie area. groups of students each devel- gallery from Feb. 10-March 18. through a grant from the Rotary A highlight of the Garden oped an exhibit around one of Artist residencies in conjunc- Club of Erie, the DCED Party will be 13 theme baskets these themes. tion with this exhibit were Educational Improvement Tax brimming with selected items to Students worked with their made possible through the Arts Credit Program and donations. appeal to all tastes. Baskets teacher Anita Rogowski, art chairwoman Janet Blatt has teacher Kathy Gnachinski and assembled a wide array of bas- Erie Art Museum assistant cura- www.ErieRCD.org kets, including an American tor Suzanne Proulx-Bavaro. A slideshow of the Stations of the Girl basket with the popular Initially, students were more Cross from St. Patrick Parish, doll and accessories; a 'Tween interested in their classmates' Erie, is now available on the Web basket for young misses; a objects than the older artifacts with meditations from Way of the From left to right, Cathedral Women's Council members Kimberly from the community. But as they sports basket with golf and ten- Brown, Mary Lou Scottino and Janet Blatt feature the grandma's Cross, Gateway to Resurrection. nis items plus gift certificates; a became more involved with attic basket with quilt, pillows, hatbox & sailor doll; a dinner party designing their displays, solicit- Family Night basket of board basket with candlesticks, wine glasses, tablecloths & table runner; games, gift certificates and ing objects and researching the and a story time basket with hand-painted chair, books, DVDs, teddy history of the objects, they DVDs; a Hardy Boys basket bear plates and a teddy bear. chock full of athletic equipment became more interested in the and games for boys; and a differences between the older Creative Memories basket with works by area artisans and Scottino at 814.459.6258. items and their own. Through scrapbooking and craft supplies. crafters. The Cathedral Women's their historical research and con- Each of the baskets is valued at The Garden Party is moving Council has provided more than versations with the owners, they more than $250. to a new location this year - St. $130,000 in funding over the learned how manufactured A $3,000 crystal package with Patrick's Cauley Center, 215 E. past 15 years to St. Peter objects reflect changes in cul- 15 unique crystal pieces will be Fourth St., Erie. A well-lit park- Cathedral, Cathedral Center and ture. As the students listened to raffled as a grand prize in addi- ing lot and security will be pro- in worthy community outreach stories about the objects told by tion to a tuition package valued vided. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. efforts, according to Adrien the lenders, they learned how at more than $2,000 to Music will be provided along Marnen, CWC president. Last objects are vessels for personal, Cathedral Center School. with a cash bar. Tickets are $25. year's Garden Party drew about community and cultural memo- Rounding out the events will be Reservations can be made by 500 women from throughout the ries and histories. a silent auction of more than 50 calling Joan White at Erie area and diocese and was a Students created a display items including many original 814.454.6640 or Mary Lou sold-out event. titled Religion in the Home which featured arranged objects such as books, statues, icons and rosary beads. The display con- Edinboro community sponsors Lenten mission with Fr. Chircop veys that the home is an inti- The Roman Catholic communi- pastoral theol- A dynamic thread runs ty of Edinboro is sponsoring a ogy, commu- through Fr. Chircop's retreats Lenten mission or "spiritual nications and and workshops. Some of his spring break" March 20-22 to spirituality favorite topics include the America’sAmerica’s PremierPremier FFolkolk EEnsemblensemble which all are invited. Fr. Philip from the importance of humor, finding Chircop, SJ, a native of the University of God in the daily grind, facing Island of Malta who has criss- Malta and Le up to distractions in prayer, crossed the globe in his spiritual Centre healing our images of God, nur- ministry, will be the presider Sèvres, Fr. Philip turing creativity, following dis- each evening. Covenant: The Facultés Chircop ciplines for wellness and watch- Promise of Presence will begin at Jésuites de ing films prayerfully (a.k.a. 7 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Paris. Video Divina). Music, Songs & Dance of Eastern Europe & Neighboring Cultures and Wednesday evenings, Great gift idea. A fantastic world tour & cultural experience. March 20-22, at Our Lady of “A joyous explosion of youth and spirited dance and music” - The New York Times the Lake Parish 814.734.3113, 128 Sunset Dr., Edinboro. When Interest Income Counts, It’s Time To Call Gen-See Fr. 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