Basketball roundup Romero Find out how some diocesan Award champions fared this season, Father George page 3. Strohmeyer talks about L'Arche Erie community, page 3.

www.ErieRCD.org BI-WEEKLY NEWS BULLETIN OF THE DIOCESE OF ERIE April 10, 2011 Church Calendar Events of the local, American and universal church VMA unveils renovations, launches capital campaign

Feast days Sisters of St. Joseph pledge $1 million By Jason Koshinskie FaithLife editor ERIE – Villa Maria Acad- emy recently won its third straight state championship in girls basketball. Now its St. Stanislaus St. Martin I looking to make sure its stu- dents are champions off the court, as well. April 11 St. Stanislaus, bishop of Cracow, In doing so, the school martyr also got an assist from the April 13 Sisters of St. Joseph. St. Martin I, pope, martyr; On March 21, Villa Ma- St. Hermengild, martyr ria Academy launched the April 17 Palm Sunday public phase of its Mission- Passion-Vision capital cam- April 21 Holy Thursday paign, which will help make improvements to its current April 22 Good Friday facilities and provide finan- cial aid scholarship money April 23 Holy Saturday for students. On March 21, Villa Maria Academy launched its Mission-Passion-Vision capital campaign and unveiled a number of renova- tions and additions. Clockwise from top right: The new chapel, a state-of-the-art fi tness center, the renovated basement cor- April 24 Easter Sunday “We have a great building, but it’s getting old,” said Fa- ridor and gymnasium with new lights and fl oor. ther Scott Jabo, the school’s president. “It’s already a and improvement efforts. months. Along with Cathedral Prep, become a diocesan school good product, and we want The campaign’s goal is to “This is an exciting phase it’s a strong statement that and combine with Cathedral to improve on that.” raise $3 million, said Chris in the history of Villa Maria Catholic education has a very Prep to form one school with Confi rmations Bishop Donald Trautman Hagerty, VMA’s director Academy,” Father Jabo said. bright and promising future.” two campuses. celebrated a Mass for the of advancement. Since the “With the current improve- The school was founded in During the Mass, the sis- solemnity of St. Joseph in March 21 launch, the school ments and putting $1 million 1920 by the Sisters of St. Jo- ters announced that they St. Agatha, Meadville – Sunday, April 10 the school’s auditorium for has raised $1.7 million. Hager- into the building thus far is seph of Northwest Pennsylva- would pledge $1 million to- at 4 p.m. Confirmation classes include St. Hip- students, faculty and guests ty said Villa Maria is hoping a strong statement that Villa nia. It was under their opera- ward the capital campaign. polyte, Frenchtown; Our Lady of Lourdes, before blessing some of the to raise the remaining $1.3 is here to stay and provide a tion until 2009 when officials Cochranton; St. Mary of Grace, Meadville; academy’s recent renovation million in the next 20 to 24 quality education for girls. announced that Villa would See VMA, page 2 St. Brigid, Meadville; St. Bernadette, Saeger- town; and St. Agatha, Meadville. Our Lady of Peace, Erie – Monday, April 11 at 7 p.m. Plans set as ordination of Bishop-elect Bartchak nears St. George, Erie – Wednesday, April 13 at By Jason Koshinskie Johnstown, and Bishop Don- the Cathedral of the Blessed 7 p.m. FaithLife editor ald Trautman serving as con- Sacrament, giving the public secrating bishops. another chance to pray with ALTOONA – The Dio- The Diocese of Altoona- the new bishop. cese of Erie will be well rep- Johnstown has announced On Easter Sunday, April Mass and rededication of St. Leo resented during the episcopal updated information regard- 24, he will take canonical Magnus, Ridgway – April 14 ordination of one of its na- ing the episcopal ordination possession of St. John Gual- tive priests. and installation Mass and cer- bert Cathedral in Johnstown Bishop Donald Trautman will celebrate Mass and Parishioners, co-workers, emony. when he celebrates the Mass rededicate the newly renovated church at St. Leo brother priests and friends of Only invited guests with a of the Lord’s Resurrection at Magnus Parish in Ridgway on Thursday, April 14 at Bishop-elect Mark Bartchak ticket will be admitted to the 11 a.m. 7 p.m. have made plans to travel to ordination and the reception On Divine Mercy Sunday, To view photos of the renovations, visit www. Altoona for his installation which will follow at Bishop May 1, the bishop will be the stleoschurchridgway.com. as the Diocese of Altoona- Guilfoyle Catholic High celebrant of a 2 p.m. Mass at Johnstown’s eighth bishop. School. Those receiving an in- St. Benedict Parish in John- Chrism Mass – April 18 The Mass will be celebrated vitation include bishops from stown’s Geistown neighbor- on April 19 at 2 p.m. at the around the country; priests hood. The public is invited This year’s Chrism Mass will be celebrated at Cathedral of the Blessed Sac- and religious from the Diocese to attend the Mass and the Notre Dame Parish in Hermitage on Monday, April rament in Altoona. of Altoona-Johnstown, the Bishop-elect Mark Bartchak reception which will follow. 18 at 4 p.m. At the Chrism Mass, which is celebrated Parishioners from St. Stan- Diocese of Erie and dioceses A number of commemora- during Holy Week, Bishop Donald Trautman will islaus Parish in Erie, where from throughout the coun- com) and WWCP TV Fox 8 An Evening Prayer Service tive publications are also in bless the sacred oils used for celebrating the sacra- Bishop-elect Bartchak has try; staff of the Diocese of (www.fox8tv.com) in John- will be held Monday, April the works. A special edition ments throughout the year. served for nearly 20 years, Altoona-Johnstown and the stown, which serve the Al- 18 at 5 p.m. at the Altoona of The Catholic Register, the will fill two buses and travel Diocese of Erie; ecumenical legheny area of Pennsylvania, cathedral. The event, which is newspaper of the Diocese of to the event. Co-workers at leaders; elected officials; and will carry the broadcast as will open to the public, is an op- Altoona-Johnstown (www. St. Mark Catholic Center in family and friends of Bishop- Radio Maria WHHN 88.1 portunity for the faithful to ajdiocese.com), will be pub- Erie, where the bishop-elect elect Bartchak. FM (http://radiomaria.us) join the bishop-elect in prayer lished April 11. The Altoona Clergy appointments has worked in the Marriage Due to the limited amount out of Hollidaysburg and We on the evening before his or- Mirror will publish a special Tribunal, will also fill a bus. of seating in the cathedral, Are One Body Radio WAOB dination and installation. The ordination and installation The Most Rev. Donald Cardinal Justin Rigali of tickets will not be available to 106.7 FM in Pittsburgh. bishop-elect will gather pri- section on April 17. In the W. Trautman, STD, the Archdiocese of Philadel- the general public. CatholicTV (www. vately with clergy following Diocese of Erie, a special edi- phia will serve as the princi- A number of local and na- catholictv.com) in Boston, the service. tion of FaithLife news bulletin SSL, Bishop of Erie, pal consecrator during the tional television and radio sta- which broadcasts local and Bishop Bartchak will be containing features and cov- announces the following Mass, with Bishop Joseph tions will broadcast the ordi- national religious program- the celebrant of the Chrism erage of the installation will clergy appointments: Adamec, the retiring bishop nation and installation Mass ming and live events, will also Mass to be offered at 11 a.m. arrive in parishes the week- of the Diocese of Altoona- live. WJAC TV (www.wjactv. carry the Mass. on Holy Thursday, April 21 at end of May 14-15. Father Walter Packard, appointed temporary administrator of St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Bradford, and Our Mother of Perpetual Help Parish, Lewis Run. Effective immediately. Holy Land collection supports Christians, peace The new Roman Missal

Different but the same ERIE – The Villa Maria Academy Victors girls var- Within the lifetime of many of us, we have sity basketball team won celebrated Mass from three different versions of its third consecutive PIAA the Sacramentary. Different … but not so differ- Class AA state champion- ent. The four main ship March 25 by defeating divisions of the the Dunmore Bucks 61-39 Mass—the introduc- in front of more than 2,000 tory rites, Liturgy of fans Penn State’s Bryce Jor- the Word, Liturgy dan Center. of the Eucharist and (CNS photo) Abbey Steudler scored 18 concluding rite— Pope Benedict XVI celebrates an outdoor Mass in the Josafat points for the Victors, Lisa Members of Villa Maria Academy’s girls basketball team have been in place Valley at the foot of the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem during Mifsud had 16 and Karlee celebrate their third consecutive state title March 25 after since the mid to late second century. The transla- his 2009 visit to the Holy Land. In his homily, the pope urged McBride added 12. Villa’s beating Dunmore 61-39. tions are somewhat different, but the “new” Mass the region’s Christians to stay in the Holy Land and work for defensive effort was key, is still the same Mass! Each version of the Sacra- harmony among its people. with the Victors holding The school held a cere- Nikki Arbanas, Lisa Mif- mentary helps us celebrate better. Dunmore to just one point mony March 28 to formally sud, Leah Bennett, Karlee – Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions From staff and wire reports Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, in the second quarter. honor the team. McBride, Amanda Ma- (FDLC) prefect of the Congregation Villa Maria finishes the Team members include: son, Rebecca Sweny, Amy Helping Christians in the for Eastern Churches. season with a 28-2 record, Jillian May, Lindsey Mif- Mikotowicz, Cierra Pol- COUNTDOWN: There are 231 days to the Holy Land with concrete ma- Unfortunately there is a a 15-game winning streak, sud, Abbey Steudler, Adri- lock, Shanice Morris and implementation of the new Roman Missal terial and spiritual support is “sorrowful tendency of Chris- a District 10 championship enne Kloecker, Zhane coaches Doug Chuzie and (as of April 10) a fundamental part of bring- and third straight state title. Brooks, Amesha Harden, Nikki Delsandro. ing peace to the region, said See HOLY LAND, page 2 Editor’s note: The following state- ments were released by Bishop Donald Trautman in response to charges filed against Father Samuel Slocum on April from Catholic News Service By the Way... 1 by the McKean County District Attor- ney’s Office. According to Matt Burnett, Faith maga- zine readers have responded to the article on the DuBois Central Catholic senior’s Pure Statement by Bishop Trautman IN THE U.S. Thirst campaign profiled in the March/April Upon hearing that Father Samuel issue. My prayers go out to all who have South Dakota passes nation’s toughest Since the article was published, Burnett Slocum has been charged with viola- been hurt in any way and also to the tions of criminal law, I immediately regulations on abortion says he has received letters from all over the parishioners of Saint Francis of As- South Dakota Gov. Dennis Daugaard signed a law March diocese with notes and checks from many in- placed him on a leave of absence and sisi, Bradford and Our Mother of revoked his diocesan faculties. He is 22 establishing a three-day waiting period for all abor- dividuals. Perpetual Help, Lewis Run. tions, a time frame that exceeds other state laws that re- not permitted to exercise any minis- If the allegations are shown to be “It has helped raise over $700 in less than try in the church. quire 24-hour waiting periods. The law, effective July 1, a week for my campaign,” he said in a March true, I am doubly saddened not only also requires women to undergo pre-abortion counseling Jason Koshinskie While the charges filed against by the pain of victims but also by the 29 e-mail. “Over the last two days, I have re- him at this point are most serious, as a way to make certain that their decision to have an ceived a total of seven letters.” betrayal of confidence and trust on abortion was “voluntary, uncoerced and informed.” Op- it is my understanding there is no the part of a priest. Burnett, 18, is the founder and manager of Pure Thirst, a criminal allegation of inappropriate ponents of the new law immediately announced plans to group of teens from across Western Pennsylvania whose mission I ask for your prayers that there challenge it. “I think everyone agrees with the goal of re- sexual activity. Nevertheless, I view will be healing for all concerned. is to raise awareness about the world’s water crisis. Their goal is the conduct described in the criminal ducing abortion by encouraging consideration of other al- to raise $25,000 to build a water filtration system in Honduras. complaint as devastating, if true. ternatives,” the Republican governor said in a statement. So far, more than $21,000 has been raised. Members of the group Most Rev. Donald W. Trautman, “I hope that women who are considering an abortion Bishop of Erie will be traveling to Honduras in June to build and dedicate the will use this three-day period to make good choices.” In system, which can supply clean water to 3,000 people per day. a statement supporting the measure before the final vote To make a donation, make checks payable to The Rice Foun- and the governor’s signature, the Diocese of Sioux Falls dation, memo: Pure Thirst. Checks can be sent to: Matt Burnett, Letter to the parishioners of St. Francis of Assisi, said it would help ensure that “mothers are as fully aware 808 Green Glen Drive, DuBois PA 15801. For more information, Bradford, and Our Mother of Perpetual Help, Lewis Run as possible of the implications and ramifications of the visit www.purethirst.org or e-mail Burnett at matt@purethirst. grave decision to terminate the most sacred gift of life.” org. Dear parishioners of St. Francis of people of Lewis Run and Bradford More than 200 people, including musicians, liturgy leaders and Assisi and Our Mother of Perpetual for 23 years. You also know firsthand AROUND THE WORLD clergy, attended the NPM SongFest and dinner April 3 at Our Help: the faith and good works of these Lady of the Lake Parish in Edinboro. The focus of the event pastors and others. Please pray for Apostleship of the Sea responds to pope’s was to review musical settings of Mass acclamation for the new I have placed Father Sam Slocum all priests. requests to aid Japanese translation of the Roman Missal. on a leave of absence while certain Now is the time for the Catholic The Apostleship of the Sea, the Catholic Church’s offi- cial society for the pastoral care of seafarers, is answer- The numbers show a broad interest about the upcoming chang- civil matters are being addressed. community to respect the civil and es and also demonstrate the willingness of many music and lit- Please remember him in your prayers church processes regarding Father ing the pope’s call to bring help to the Japanese people affected by recent natural disasters and to remain united urgy leaders to be prepared, says Matt Clark, administrator for as well as your entire parish commu- Slocum. Now is a time for prayer, the diocese’s Office of Worship. nity. I know this is a tense time for all not speculation. Now is a time for in prayer. Seafarers are one of the groups hit hardest by the tsunami and earthquake, said Soon-Ho Kim, direc- This was the first of three spring events on the diocese’s Roman of you, but we must focus on the pres- trust. Your parishes are literally go- Missal implementation calendar. Sister Joyce Ann Zimmerman, ence of the Lord, the Good Shepherd, ing through your own Good Friday, tor of the Apostleship of the Sea (AOS) in Japan. Kim, a Columban lay missionary, reported that more than C.PP.S., Ph.D., S.T.D., a noted liturgist and founder and director who continues to be present to you in but let us remember resurrection, of the Institute for Liturgical Ministry in Dayton, Ohio, offered your parishes through the Scriptures Easter Sunday, follows death and dy- 20,000 boats have been destroyed and 260 ports damaged in the wake of the March 11 earthquake and tsunamis two talks on the Roman Missal April 7 at Mercyhurst College. and sacraments. I have appointed ing. Good Friday was a day; Easter Look for a feature on Sister Joyce Ann’s presentation in the next Father Walter Packard to serve as a is forever. Please be assured of my that followed. Auxiliary Bishop Michael Goro Matsuura prayers. of Osaka said March 28 that the AOS and the Japanese issue of FaithLife. temporary administrator of your par- Msgr. James Moroney will offer presentations May 17 at St. ishes. He will continue the teaching, bishops are focusing their efforts on fishermen and other Sincerely yours in Christ, people who do not qualify for government aid. “It will Catherine of Siena Parish in DuBois for clergy and lay liturgy shepherding and sanctifying role of leaders from 2-4:30 p.m. and the public from 6:30-8 p.m. Msgr. the Lord in your midst. The stability take many programs and projects to rebuild the human, of the parishes continues. social and working environments of these people,” Bish- Moroney, a priest of the Diocese of Worcester, Mass., was with Through the years you have known op Matsuura explained. “It will be a long-term process the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Divine Worship for several years many fine and dedicated priests. You Most Rev. Donald W. Trautman, because still today people look at the sea with extreme and serves as the executive secretary for Vox Clara, the Vatican were blessed with the lengthy pastor- STD, SSL fear.” The AOS has launched a campaign to raise money committee appointed to oversee liturgical translations. ates of Msgr. Carlton Ritchie, who Bishop of Erie for the rehabilitation of Japanese seafaring communities. served St. Francis for 36 years, and Kim said humanitarian aid is the first step the AOS is tak- Jason Koshinskie is editor of FaithLife. Contact him at JKoshinskie@ Father Howard King, who served the ing, followed by establishing an efficient communication ErieRCD.org or 814.824.1171. network to reach coastal towns. Later, the AOS plans to hold reconstruction projects, he said. VMA unveils renovations, launches capital campaign VMA, from page 1 In light of the anniversary, The sisters’ pledge is the largest and white colors incorporated Offices and classrooms will also the course of the entire building many sisters attended the Mass single gift in the school’s history. throughout. The school’s exterior be remodeled. over the next few years,” Father The Sisters of St. Joseph are to commemorate this milestone Over the course of the past 18 front entrance has been updated “We’ll gradually move through Jabo said. celebrating their 150th anniver- for Villa Maria Academy while months, Father Jabo said a num- to provide safe wheelchair access sary in the Diocese of Erie this celebrating their years of service ber of significant improvements and new windows for better insu- year. Officials with the Sisters and ministry in the diocese. have been made. After Mass, the lation. of St. Joseph said an important “From the very beginning, school unveiled its new fitness cen- The school’s lobby has been re- component of the anniversary we have focused on educating ter, which is located on the second designed to include a new central celebration was to do something young women so they can flour- floor and overlooks the renovated corridor which features a chapel Lenten offerings that would leave a lasting impres- ish and lead in today’s world,” gymnasium which features new and conference room. sion of their presence in the dio- said Sister Moira Sullivan, SSJ. lighting and a new floor. The fit- In the summer, Father Jabo Musical Passion play at Beloved Disciple, cese and, at the same time, help “We are fortunate to be able ness center features treadmills, said more renovations will take Grove City future generations. They called to give a gift of this magnitude elipticals, recumbent bikes and place. GROVE CITY – Beloved Disciple Parish in Grove City will the pledge a legacy gift that will because of our commitment to strength training equipment. The auditorium seats and light- present “Make Us Believers,” a powerful and multi-generational help ensure the continuance of living simply, cutting expenses, The basement corridor has been ing will be replaced and the first musical Passion play written by parish youth minister Bob Sum- Catholic education for young investing wisely and through the fitted with new lockers, flooring floor corridor will be renovated mers. women in the area. generosity of our benefactors.” and lighting, with the school’s blue with new lighting and painting. The performance will take place on Friday, April 15 at 7 p.m. There is a donation of $5 per person. Beloved Disciple is located at 1310 S. Center Street Ext., Grove City. For more information, call the parish at 724.748.6700 Ext. 1 or visit www.beloved-disci- Holy Land collection supports Christians, peace ple.com. HOLY LAND, from page 1 ally is taken up during Good Fri- ued tensions and violence have Bethlehem, Bethany, Jerusalem Lenten concert, holy hour at St. Mark, tian emigration which impover- day services. taken their toll on the Christian and Nazareth, to name a few. Emporium ishes the entire area, draining it Parishes in the Diocese of Erie communities living there. These Funds collected around the EMPORIUM – St. Mark Parish in Emporium will present a of the most vital forces constitut- will take up the special collection communities are in danger of dis- world help support university Lenten concert and holy hour with Jim Cowen. ed by the young generations,” he on Good Friday, April 22. appearing without our help.” scholarships for Christian stu- The concert will take place on Thursday, April 14 at 7 p.m. at said in a written appeal to bish- “Today, Christians living in Many of the projects combine dents in the region, craft-making the church, located at 235 E. Fourth St. in Emporium. There will ops around the world. the Holy Land endure numerous archaeological studies and resto- businesses, social and medical be a free will offering. The letter is sent every year to hardships for their faith as they ration of Christian shrines with services for the poor, financial Cowen is a renowned singer and songwriter and has been the bishops to encourage parishes in strive to maintain a Christian the improvement of pilgrim facili- assistance to struggling parishes worship leader for conferences at Franciscan University in Steu- their dioceses to support the Holy presence and witness,” Bishop ties and convents at the same site. and schools and a project to build benville, Ohio, for 25 years. Land collection, which tradition- Donald Trautman said. “Contin- These sites include holy places at apartments for poor families and For more information, contact the parish at 814. 486.0569. young couples.

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60 Years of Excellence MCRC Vision: Hispanic and other ethnic minorities will experience acceptance, Monte Carlo Night respect, independence and self- sufficiency in our community. Saturday, April 30 Since 1947 Serving the Erie Community since 1975. 6:00-11:30 PM St. Paul’s Center 16th and Walnut Sts., Erie Culturally Driven. Diversity Empowered. All your collision needs. Admission: Special Wash & Wax...$55 Hours of Operation: MCRC offers the following ser- $5 per person Monday Through Friday vices to Hispanic and other (Must be 18 or older) 453-6185 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM immigrants and refugees: ESL We are located in the historic classes, Citizenship classes, GRAND AWARD AT 11 PM Penn School on Employment services, Case East 10th & Ash Streets in Management, Interpretation & • Games & Get-together Downtown Erie Translation for various lan- • Free Food & Refreshments guages, Immigration services, (while they last) 814.455.0212 Drug & Alcohol prevention, Dave Ras Amy Ras Carol Ras Jim Winarski www.multiculturalcrc.org Daycare and Pre-K classes. Sponsored by St. Paul’s Catholic Church 1500 Club owner office office mgr. Basketball

Mercyhurst Prep girls basketball season ends with silver ERIE – The Mercyhurst Prep ter. Indiana, New Castle and Villa girls varsity basketball team held The Lakers finished the season Joseph Marie before falling to its own with the top teams in the with a 27-3 record which included Archbishop Wood. The Lakers’ state this season but fell one vic- a streak of 24 consecutive victo- only losses during the regular tory short of a state title. ries and a District 10 Class AAA season came out of state in the The Lakers fell to defending championship. Bishop Watterson Classic in Co- champion Archbishop Wood The team defeated Grove City, lumbus, Ohio. 53-41 on March 26 in the PIAA General McLane and Franklin Pictured, left to right, are Gabbard, Amanda Berchtold, standing) coach Dan Perfetto, land, Tiff any Carrier, Elysha Class AAA championship in to capture the district title. On members of the Mercyhurst Prep Tarynn Garnon, Ally Burke, Lindsay Stamp, Kayla Wilwohl, Chrzanowski, Florie Fournier, front of more than 2,000 fans at their way to the state champion- girls varsity basketball team: Lauren Aronica, Alissa Robbins, Bethany Woll, Kelly Hedderick, coach Jen Crawford and coach Penn State’s Bryce Jordan Cen- ship game, they beat Hopewell, (front row, seated) coach Shanna Sarah Kupniewski, (back row, Brenna Robbins, Grace Hol- Jeff Orlando.

St. George girls basketball wins diocesan Seton Catholic boys basketball wins diocesan championship, fi nishes sixth at states championship, heads to states ERIE – The St. George School MEADVILLE – Seton Catho- girls basketball team capped the lic School’s boys varsity basketball 2010-11 season by winning the di- team will represent the Diocese of ocesan championship and finish- Erie at the Catholic Youth Orga- ing sixth at the state tournament. nization (CYO) state champion- The Lady Lancers varsity squad ships at Bishop McCort Catholic finished the diocesan season with High School in Johnstown April a 7-1 record and tied for first place. 8-10. They entered the playoffs as the Seton Catholic from Meadville No. 1 seed via a coin flip and be- will be one of eight teams in the gan their playoff run March 1 by state tournament representing the defeating St. Luke. They beat Our eight dioceses in Pennsylvania. Lady of Peace on March 7 for the The school held a sendoff rally AAA championship and St. James for the team and cheerleading on March 10 for the Erie Region squad April 8 in the school gym- championship. The Lady Lancers nasium. defeated St. Stephen in Oil City on Cars traveling to Johnstown de- March 13 to capture their second parted the school parking lot with a police escort past the Meadville Members of the Seton Catholic School boys varsity basketball straight diocesan championship. Pictured, left to right, are members of the St. George girls varsity team celebrate their diocesan championship March 27. Team mem- By winning the diocesan title, basketball team: (front row) Anna Corritore, Maggie Schoenig, Han- City fire station on Park Avenue. The caravan got a special sendoff bers include Isaiah Orris, Connor Melvin, Antonio Frisina, Kevin St. George won a trip to the state nah Zeigler, Chloe Hampy, Morgan Putnam, (back row) assistant O’Malley, Jarrid Miller, Brian Predis, Alex Parker, Ryan Miller, Catholic Youth Organization coach Allison Roberts, Maxine Hawthorne, Nicole Geanous, Lexie from the Meadville firefighters, as well as Seton students, faculty James Mullen, Jack Swick, Peter Egan, Pietro Damasceno, Max (CYO) tournament, which was Simpson, Mariah Elwell, Jessica Damico, Nicole Maxson and head Rust and coach Drake Parker. held at the University of Scranton coach Lisa Beery. and staff who lined Park Avenue March 25-27. near Wendy’s to wish the team The Lady Lancers fell 34-28 to well. The Eagles played their tournament’s first game.) league championship with a vic- St. Gabriel of Pittsburgh in the from Altoona-Johnstown 45- finished sixth in the tournament first game that night against St. Seton’s games will be broadcast tory over Our Lady of Peace in opening round. In consolation 39 and fell to St. Bernadette of going 1-2 and ended the season Mary Glenshaw of Pittsburgh. on Cool 101.7 WMVL FM (www. Erie and captured the diocesan matchups, they beat St. Andrew Philadelphia 22-16. The team with a 29-4 record. (Editor’s note: This edition of cool1017online.com). championship with a win over FaithLife went to press prior to the Seton won the Tri-County Notre Dame in Hermitage. Briefl y L’Arche Erie community receives Romero Award Pro-life town hall meeting to visit him and his community ERIE – People for Life will host a town hall meeting with Mi- By Jason Koshinskie Father George FaithLife editor of about 30 people. But there chael Ciccocioppo, executive director, and Maria Vitale, education Strohmeyer accepted were others who needed help, director, of the Pennsylvania Pro-Life Federation. The meeting will the Archbishop Oscar ERIE – Whenever we come and Father Philippe encouraged be held on Wednesday, April 13 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Gannon Uni- Romero Award, Vanier to help them. A year later, versity, Zurn 101, 143 W. Seventh St. in Erie. It is free and open to to community, Father George given annually by Strohmeyer says, we’re called to he founded L’Arche. the public. Mercyhurst College The goal of L’Arche, Father For more information, contact People for Life at 814.882.1333 something bigger than ourselves. and its Department “We’re invited into something Strohmeyer said, is to have a com- or e-mail [email protected]. of Religious Studies, munity where people with and that is much larger than our in- March 24 on behalf tention,” Father Strohmeyer said. without disabilities can share life, of the L’Arche Erie affirming one another’s unique Retreat for people with physical disabilities “Jesus takes us over and we re- community. Father ERIE – The Victorious Missionaries will sponsor a retreat for alize we’re called to something values and gifts. Strohmeyer co- “What really matters in the people with physical disabilities on Saturday, April 16 from 9 a.m. deeper.” founded L’Arche Erie to 3:30 p.m. at St. Mark Catholic Center, 429 E. Grandview Blvd. Mercyhurst College presented end is that L’Arche is here and in 1972. It is the oldest we’re friends,” he said. in Erie. its annual Archbishop Oscar L’Arche community in Deacon Steve and Vicki Washek will direct the retreat, titled Romero Award to Erie’s L’Arche the United States. “What Does it Mean to Live a Life in the Spirit of Jesus Christ?” community on March 24. Father The retreat will include presentations, Mass, penance and large Strohmeyer, who co-founded the and small group sharing. L’Arche Erie in 1972, accepted who is Gannon University’s cur- “I pray that we can all reach The cost is $5 (scholarships are available) which includes a light the award on behalf of the local rent chaplain, attended a lecture within our unspoken hearts breakfast and a box lunch. To make reservations or for more infor- community. by Vanier in Toronto. Inspired by where we could look and gaze mation, contact Jackie Johnson at 814.824.4534 or e-mail JJohn- Following Father Strohmeyer's his radical message of commu- and evoke a great sense of won- [email protected]. talk, Vicki Washek, executive di- nity, he later co-founded L’Arche der from ourselves regarding the rector of L'Arche Erie, and mem- Erie. It is the oldest L’Arche miracle, the message and the Engagement Encounter bers of the community were pre- community in the United States. story of life, the story of justice THOMAS M. sented with a certificatennp. L’Arche Erie has eight homes and peace and tonight the story MERCER – The next Engagement Encounter will be held the Mercyhurst’s Department of and two apartment settings where of L’Arche,” he said. CLICKETT weekend of April 29-May 1 at McKeever Learning Center near Religious Studies presents the members live, work and share He called L’Arche an expres- MEMORIALS, INC. Mercer. Romero Award annually to an daily life. sion of the relationship between Early registrations are encouraged. Contact the Family Life Of- individual “living the call of faith Father Stohmeyer spoke about Vanier and Father Thomas fice for details at 814.824.1261 or e-mail [email protected]. and justice in an extraordinary his first visit to L’Arche. The Philippe, a Dominican priest manner.” The award is in its 20th community went to see a Char- who served as Vanier’s spiritual Reason for Our Hope Foundation presents year. lie Chaplin movie. In the theater, director. After a number of hard- L’Arche Erie is a faith-based he sat next to a man named An- ships, Father Philippe went to the When Caring Matters! Robert Rogers community where life is shared dre, whom the community called village of Trosly in France. There GRANITE BRONZE ERIE – The Reason for Our Hope Foundation will present an between people with and without Bebe. Bebe didn’t speak. He would he met people with intellectual evening with Robert Rogers on Sunday, May 15 at St. Joseph Par- intellectual disabilities. L’Arche simply often gaze peacefully. That disabilities. FINAL DATE ish/Bread of Life Community, 147 W. 24th St. in Erie. Praise and was originally founded by Jean was until Father Stohmeyer heard “They were people who were L ETTERING worship begins at 6:30 p.m. with the speaker Vanier in France in 1964. Today him commenting on what he saw. poor and were suffering but who COMPETITIVE PRICES starting at 7. there are 135 L’Arche communi- But nobody else was seeing it. He had such a love for Jesus,” Father 814-438-7349 Rogers inspires others to “Live a Life with ties in 30 countries. was simply enjoying the lights on Strohmeyer said. No Regrets.” He experienced a tragedy of In 1971, Father Strohmeyer, the screen before the movie. Father Philippe invited Vanier Biblical proportions when he lost his wife Route 8 South and all four children in a flash flood in Kan- Union City, PA sas in 2003. Through his immediate trust in God, STUMP GRINDING DIRECTOR OF MUSIC MINISTRY by Ken Eaton he has risen above adversity and shared his Large suburban parish in the Diocese of Pittsburgh is Back yards - tight spots - No problem compelling message across the country. An seeking an enthusiastic, dedicated and faith-filled Free estimates, Insured, Shrubs and accomplished worship leader, pianist, song- Director of Music Ministry. Applicants must have a small trees removed, Prompt service writer and author of “Into the Deep: One Robert Rogers Ken (814) 474-2195 or minimum of a B.A. in Music or equivalent; bachelor’s (814) 397-0384 LICENSE PA 056587 Man’s Story of How Tragedy Took His Fam- degree or master’s degree in Music Education and ily But Could Not Take His Faith,” Rogers elementary teaching certificate preferred. Duties teaches others to live a life of no regrets with his inspiring words include planning and playing at all Sunday liturgies, and original songs at the piano. funeral and wedding liturgies, and weekly school liturgy. Please forward resume to Rev. Kenneth Keene, 5718 Steubenville Pike, McKees Rocks, PA 15136.

ERIE DIOCESAN St. Philip Catholic Church CEMETERIES presents Irish entertainer, Cahal Dunne NOW OPEN Saturday, May 7th at 7:30 p.m. CALVARY EAST MAUSOLEUM 401 S. Mercer St., Linesville, PA Cahal Refreshments & 50/50 Dunne CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT Tickets: $15.00 ea. 814-838-7724 Call 814-683-4548 Youngsville Knights of Columbus sponsor holy hour for life YOUNGSVILLE – On March 8 the Knights of Columbus, Youngsville Council, sponsored its sixth annual Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper at St. Luke Par- ish in Youngsville. Committed to defending the life of the unborn, the Knights tithed 10 percent of the profits to the Pregnancy Sup- port Center of Warren County. On March 25, the feast of the Annunciation, the Knights spon- sored a holy hour for life. Fol- lowing the prayer service for the unborn, a display table featuring Immaculate Conception student’s Flat Stanley the life of the unborn at different stages of development was avail- visits White House able for viewing and reflection. CLARION – Early in Febru- Pictured, left to right, are Alice ary, Isabela Barboza, a second Harlan; Darrell Harlan, Grand grader at Immaculate Concep- Knight; and Peg Yeager. tion School in Clarion, mailed her Flat Stanley to President Ba- rack Obama at the White House. Imagine her surprise when Flat Stanley returned to the school along with information and pho- tos from the White House and a letter relating the events of the day Flat Stanley spent with Pres- ident Obama and the First Fam- Father Joseph Maryland turns 100 ily, including the First Dog, Bo. As a part of the second grade ERIE – Father Joseph Mary- reading curriculum, teacher land has the distinction of being Debra Marchand reads the book, the longest serving priest in the “Flat Stanley,” by Jeff Brown to history of the Diocese of Erie and her class. The students are then the first priest to reach the age of instructed to write a letter, color 100. three Flat Stanley cutouts and Bishop Donald Trautman cel- mail them to three recipients of ebrated Mass for Father Mary- their choice. land’s 100th birthday on March Upon receiving the package, 18 at St. Mary’s Home at As- each chosen participant is asked bury Ridge in Erie, where Father to spend the day with Flat Stan- Maryland resides. ley and report on the events of Father Maryland was born their day to the sender of the on March 20, 1911 and was or- package. The recipients are also dained a priest on May 2, 1940. asked to pass Flat Stanley, with He retired from active ministry in instructions, along to another 1981. destination of their choosing in ing on his adventures. the letter and informational items He has served as a pastor at St. an effort to keep Flat Stanley Pictured are Debra Marchand they received from the White Timothy, Curwensville; Our Lady travelling the world and report- and Isabela Barboza along with House and the First Family. Help of Christians, Oil City; St. Hippolyte, Frenchtown; St. Basil the Great, Coalport; St. Joseph, Anita; and St. Anthony of Padua, Walston. He served as a parochial vicar at St. Brigid, Meadville; St. DuBois Central Catholic sends 11 students Paul, Erie; Ss. Cosmas and Dami- to compete at PJAS an, Punxsutawney; St. John the Evangelist, Girard; and St. Mark, DUBOIS – DuBois Central Emporium. Catholic recently sent 11 stu- Attending the birthday Mass dents to the Pennsylvania Ju- were a number of friends and well nior Academy of the Sciences wishers including former parish- (PJAS) regional competition in ioners. The Mass was followed by Bishop Donald Trautman presents Father Joseph Maryland with Altoona. a lunch and reception. an apostolic blessing from Pope Benedict XVI in honor of his 100th Pictured, left to right, are: birthday. (front row) DCC middle school science teacher Renee Gressler, Cara Burgeson, Sarah Aravich, Kallie Crawford, Ayden Hanes, Sean Garred, Dom Goldbach, DCC high school science teach- er Jennifer Graeca, (back row) Brianna Clyde, Sabrena Starr, currently 596 members! Nick Pitrone, Baliegh Cannis- at Penn State: Aravich with her Gressler and Graeca accompa- Get the link at traci and Melanie Lowrie. project entitled “How much cal- nied the students to Altoona. www.ErieRCD.org Two students earned first- cium carbonate is in an eggshell?” place honors and will advance and Crawford with her project en- to the state PJAS event in May titled “Battle of the Stains.” Both

Paperback Exchange Buying ready... Selling & Trading New & Used Books set...GO! Mon-Fri: 10-6 Sat: 10-4, Sun: 12-4 3514 Liberty Street Liberty Plaza Retreat for Sisters Erie, PA 16508 “WHO REALLY IS THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD?” (814) 864-1565 July 4-9, 2011 with PROXIMO TRAVEL 2011 Holy Land: April 25-May 5 / May 16-26... Presented by: Father Richard Gielow, C.M. France / Spain/Portugal: May 14-26 / June 30-July12... Fr. Gielow was ordained a priest of the Congregation of the Mission of Italy Regular: May 14-22 Italy South: Sept. 10-22... Saint Vincent DePaul in 1970. He served as Director of Vocations for the BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING Vincentian Fathers and Brothers, and was later Rector and Principal of Italy / Holy Land: May 9-22... St. John’s High School Seminary in Kansas City, MO. He has served as a Italy / Switzerland: April 30-May2... member of the Vincentian Parish Mission Team since 1982, and is currently Ireland / Scotland: May 14-26 / July 9-21 / Sept. 3-15... its Director. Fr. Gielow holds a B.A. in Philosophy, a M.Div. in Theology from Lourdes / Fatima / Medjugorje: May 4-15 / Sept. 3-14... DeAndreis Institute of Theology and a M.A. in Religious Education from Catholic University in Washington, D.C. Tuscany: June 30-July 10 / Sept. 8-18... $2,999 CHRIST THE KING RETREAT HOUSE Air fare from 9-day trip: 500 Brookford Road, Syracuse, NY 13224 All- included anywhere $3,390 Inclusive on all in the Located in a quiet residential area, minutes away from downtown, 13-day trip: trips USA yet away from the noise of the city, the Retreat House offers ($3,990) peaceful places to pray, read, study and relax. *Trips to Italy/Holy Land 2011: $4,490 In addition to Conferences and Liturgy, there will be time to enjoy Anthony Nachef, PhD (Theology) Owner the beautiful grounds, gardens and outside Stations of the Cross. Refresh yourself in our private, spacious pool. Toll free: 1-877-994-8259 508-340-9370 First Conference at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, July 4 (No Dinner will be provided on this first night of the Retreat.) [email protected] Retreat ends by noon on Saturday, July 9 web:www.Proximotravel.com Offering: $350. Call (315) 446-2680 for Reservations GANNON.EDU/BIOMED