Oct. 15, 2015 - Diocese of Allentown

“The Allentown Diocese in the Year of Our Lord”
VOL. 27, NO. 18
OCTOBER 15, 2015
Diocesan women pray for families at special holy hour
By TAMI QUIGLEY
Staff writer
“To be in the presence of the Lord in the Most Blessed
Sacrament is time well spent. Pray for your family and all
families in the diocese that they receive God’s grace,” said
diocesan Vicar General Msgr. Alfred Schlert, presider of
special evening holy hour for women of the diocese Oct.
8 at the Cathedral of St. Catharine of Siena, Allentown.
The holy hour was hosted by the diocesan Commission for Women (CFW), which is under the auspices of the
diocesan Secretary for Catholic Life and Evangelization,
and serves as an advisory board to the bishop on women’s
issues.
From the steadfast faith of
our Blessed Mother to the loyal
“Family life
women who stood at the foot
of the cross during the crucifixis at times a
ion, and the multitude of great
pressure cooker
female saints thereafter, the
with tensions
power of prayerful women has
and anxieties.
sustained the Catholic Church
Other times it’s
through the millennia. The
CFW invited women of the dioa greenhouse
cese to come and continue that
where love
legacy.
grows.”
The focus of the evening was
prayer for the Synod of Bishops
on the Family. It featured sacred music, exposition of the Holy Eucharist, benediction
and reflection by Msgr. Schlert.
Msgr. Schlert said at the recent World Meeting of Families (WMOF) in Philadelphia, “The Holy Father was so
close to us in a very real way, gracing our region with his
loving concern for all in the world in need … and in a special way for families.”
Msgr. Alfred Schlert blesses the altar at exposition of the Blessed Sacrament during a special evening holy
hour for women of the diocese Oct. 8 at the Cathedral of St. Catharine of Siena, Allentown. (Photos by John
Simitz)
Msgr. Schlert asked for prayers for the bishops meeting
at the synod in Rome as they discuss marriage and family
life.
“In many ways family life is broken, faces challenges
and is under great pressure,” he said.
“For all that radical feminism has tried to do, it can nevPlease see FAMILIES page 4 }}
‘Apologetics Forum: The Catholic Faith Explained’ calls for prayer life and witness
Joshua Schulz, assistant
philosophy professor at DeSales University, presents
“Apologetics Forum: The
Catholic Faith Explained.”
(Photos by John Simitz)
By TARA CONNOLLY
Staff writer
“Your prayer life
and witness to the faith
are the best thing you
have to evangelize Jesus Christ,” said Joshua
Schulz, assistant philosophy professor at DeSales University, Center
Valley, during “Apologetics Forum: The Catholic Faith Explained.”
Schulz led the Oct.
7 discussion at St. Michael Parish Center of
Queenship, Northampton, where he addressed
contraception, premarital sex and same-sex marriage.
He began the discussion by examining the five stages
of conversion: trust, curiosity, openness, seeking and intentional discipleship.
“Conversion is not just for converts. Most people sitting in the pews are probably at the first three conversion
stages,” said Schulz.
During the first stage of conversion, Schulz said, a per-
son sees a positive association
with the faith in another person.
“Meeting a Christian who
is nice and friendly will often
lead another person to develop
a positive association. Maybe
they are willing to ask you a
question. They aren’t seeking to
be converted and are interested
in swinging a question by you,”
he said.
Curiosity arises by the life a person leads, and openness
stems from a life event like the birth of a child or death.
Please see APOLOGETICS page 6 }}
Synod calls for Bible-based
presentation of God’s plan for family
VATICAN CITY (CNS) – As members of the Synod of Bishops concluded work on the second of three
chapters in their working document, they continued to call for a tone and for language that is clear, simple and
encourages people to see it is possible to live the vocation of marriage and family life.
At the same time, most of the synod’s 13 working groups – formed according to language – asked for
a greater use of Scripture in the synod’s text, including examples of holy couples and Jesus’ interactions with
a variety of family members, such as parents who asked him to heal their children.
Two groups said the working document, which they are amending and planning to give to Pope Francis, does not contain a concise definition of marriage. “This is a serious defect,” said English Group D, led by
Please see SYNOD page 22 }}
2
The A.D. Times
Diocese
Episcopal
appointments
Published biweekly on Thursday by
Allentown Catholic Communications, Inc.
at P.O. Box F
Allentown, PA 18105-1538
Phone: 610-871-5200, Ext. 264
Fax: 610-439-7694
E-mail: [email protected]
President
Bishop John Barres
Editor
Jill Caravan
Staff Writers
Tara Connolly
Tami Quigley
Design & Production
Marcus Schneck
Advertising Contact
Lori Anderson
Office Assistant
Priscilla Tatara
Bishop’s Liaison
Msgr. Alfred Schlert
October 15, 2015
Bishop of Allentown John Barres has
made the following appointments.
Father Robert Finlan to chaplain,
Marian High School, Tamaqua, effective
Sept. 8.
Msgr. Edward Coyle to chaplain, St.
Thomas More Society in the Diocese of
Allentown, effective Thursday, Oct. 29.
Appointed as members of the Pastoral
Planning Commission, for three-year
terms, effective Oct. 12:
Father Eugene Ritz.
Father Philip Rodgers.
Robert Ames of Coaldale
Paula Davis of Allentown.
Stephen Mickulik of Reading.
Patrick Reilly of Ashland.
Kerry Wrobel of Bethlehem.
Stained glass sale to feature panels from diocesan buildings
More than 200 architectural remnants
of stained glass from diocesan churches
and one convent will be available for sale
Saturday, Oct. 31 from 9 a.m. to noon at
St. Elizabeth of Hungary 618 Fullerton
Ave. Whitehall.
The diocese is sponsoring the sale
through Beyer Studio, Philadelphia.
Funds from the sales are returned to the
parishes that remained after the mergers
of the parishes.
The windows were created from
stained glass windows that were part of:
Holy Cross Church, Bowmanstown.
Our Lady of Good Counsel Church,
Gordon.
Sacred Heart Church, Nesquehoning.
St. Casimir Church, Mahanoy City.
St. George Church, Shenandoah.
St. Joseph Convent, Ashland.
St. Kieran Church, Heckscherville.
St. Mary of the Assumption Church,
McAdoo.
St. Mary Church, Beaver Meadows.
St. Mary Star of the Sea Church,
Branchdale.
St. Mauritius Church, Ashland.
St. Paul’s Church, Allentown.
St. Stanislaus Church, Bethlehem.
St. Stanislaus Church, Shenandoah.
SS. Peter and Paul Church, Lansford.
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VICTIM ASSISTANCE COORDINATOR
The Diocese of Allentown provides assistance to anyone who, as a minor, was sexually abused by a priest,
deacon or employee/volunteer of the Diocese/Parish
Parents, guardians, children and survivors of sexual abuse are invited and encouraged to contact the Diocese
of Allentown for more information about this program. The fullness of compassion should be extended to these
victims by the Church.
To speak directly to the Victim Assistance Coordinator, please call the direct line 1-800-791-9209.
To learn more about the Diocese of Allentown’s Youth Protection Programs, Sexual Abuse Policy and Code of
Conduct, please visit www.allentowndiocese.org and click on “Youth Protection” at top right.
COORDINADOR DE ASISTENCIA A LAS VÍCTIMAS
La Diócesis de Allentown provee asistencia a cualquier persona que, como menor de edad, fue abusado
sexualmente por un sacerdote, diácono o empleado/voluntario de la Diócesis/Parroquia.
Los padres, tutores, niños y los sobrevivientes de abuso sexual están invitados a contactar la Diócesis de Allentown para obtener más información sobre este programa. La plenitud de compasión debe extenderse a las
víctimas por la Iglesia.
Para hablar directamente con el coordinador de asistencia a las víctimas por favor llame a la línea directa
1-800-791-9209.
Para obtener más información acerca de los Programas de Protección de la Juventud,
Política de Abuso Sexual y el Código de Conducta de la Diócesis de Allentown, por favor visite
www.allentowndiocese.org y haga clic en “Protección de la Juventud” en la parte superior
derecha.
Diocese
October 15, 2015
The A.D. Times
Conference will show men how to grow in relationship with Jesus
The Catholic Men’s Fellowship
“Spirit 2015” men’s conference,
showing men how to grow in their
relationship with Jesus Christ, will
be Saturday, Nov. 21 from 8 a.m. to
5 p.m. at DeSales University, Center
Valley.
Presenters will focus on the needs
of men today, and help men to be
alive in the Spirit and ambassadors
for Christ in faith.
The day will begin at 8 a.m. with
registration, exhibits and continental breakfast, followed by: opening
prayer and keynote presentations, 9
a.m.; lunch, adoration and confession, 11:30 a.m.; keynote presentations, 1 p.m.
The conference will conclude with
Vigil Mass at 4 p.m. celebrated by
Bishop of Allentown John Barres.
Preregistration is required; no
walk-ins. Registration fee (includes
continental breakfast and lunch) is
$35; college/high school student rate
$10. Deadline to register is Monday,
Nov. 9.
For more information or to register: www.cmfda.org; 610-289-8900;
[email protected].
Speakers for the conference
Four renowned speakers will highlight the conference.
Danny Abramowicz
Abramowicz is involved in full-time
work with Crossing the Goal ministries,
an evangelization outreach to Catholic men nationally. It uses TV, Internet
technology, conferences and leadership training seminars to accomplish its
goal. He also had a long history with the
NFL as a player, coach and broadcaster.
He was born July 13, 1945 in Steubenville, Ohio. He attended Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio and graduated with a bachelor of science degree
in 1967. Xavier University has presented him with the two most prestigious
awards bestowed on a student athlete
– Legion of Honor and Hall of Fame.
In 1967 he was drafted in the 17th
and last round by the New Orleans
Saints. His career spanned eight seasons. Some of his accomplishments
include the NFL’s leading receiver and
All-Pro in 1969. He was voted to the
Saints Silver Anniversary Team. He is a
member of the following Halls of Fame:
Louisiana, Saints, Sugar Bowl, Sports
Faith and National Polish.
Abramowicz serves on the board of
directors of EWTN, Crossing the Goal
and the Donum Dei Foundation. Also,
he serves in an advisory capacity to the
board of directors of National Fellowship of Catholic Men and a co-chair for
Franciscan University of Steubenville
Capital Drive for Athletics. He travels
throughout the United States speaking
at Catholic men’s conferences.
He has produced the TV Series
“Crossing the Goal” on EWTN and
authored a book titled titled “Spiritual
Workout of a Former Saint.”
Curtis Martin
Martin is the founder and CEO of
FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students), one of the fastest
growing movements in the Catholic
Church.
Reflecting on the work of FOCUS,
Cardinal Timothy Cardinal Dolan said,
“If you’re looking for hope, look to FOCUS.”
Whether he is on college campuses
or television, at conferences or working with corporate America, Martin is
an award-winning and proven dynamic
speaker who has the ability to help his
audience discover a vision for life.
In 2011 Pope Benedict XVI appointed Martin as a consulter to the Pontifical Council of the New Evangelization.
He holds a master’s degree in theology, is the author of the best-selling
book “Made for More” and co-hosts
the ground-breaking show on EWTN
“Crossing the Goal.”
In 2004 Martin and his wife, Michaelann, were awarded the Benemerenti Medal by Pope John Paul II for
their outstanding service to the church.
They live in Westminster, Colo. and are
blessed by God with nine children.
Father Wade Menezes
Father Menezes is a member of the
Fathers of Mercy, a missionary preaching religious congregation based in Auburn, Ky. Ordained a priest during the
Great Jubilee Year 2000, he received
his bachelor of arts degree in Catholic
thought from the Oratory of St. Philip
Neri in Toronto, Canada, and his dual
master of arts and master of divinity degrees in theology from Holy Apostles
Seminary, Cromwell, Conn. His secular
college degrees are in journalism and
communications.
Father Wade is assistant general, and
has served as director of vocations and
director of seminarians, for the Fathers
of Mercy. He has also served as chaplain-in-residence at the Shrine of the
Most Blessed Sacrament of Our Lady
of the Angels Monastery, Hanceville,
Ala. While at the shrine he was a daily
Abramowicz
Martin
Mass celebrant, homilist and confessor; he also gave spiritual conferences
on specialized points of Catholic Christian doctrine to the many pilgrims who
visit the shrine. Both the monastery and
shrine are affiliated with EWTN.
Father Wade has been a contributing
writer for the National Catholic Register, Our Sunday Visitor, Catholic Twin
Circle, Catholic Faith and Family, The
Wanderer, Pastoral Life, The Catholic Faith, Lay Witness and Christian
Ranchman publications.
Several of his homiletic series have
appeared in Homiletic and Pastoral
Review, an international journal for
priests.
Father Wade has also been a guest on
various episodes of EWTN’s “Mother
Angelica Live” and “Life on the Rock”
programs, during which he discussed
such topics as the sanctification of marriage and family life, vocations and the
sacred liturgy. He has also hosted several televised series for EWTN, which
have covered such topics as the necessity of the spiritual life, “Four Last
Things,” “Ten Commandments of Catholic Family Life,” and “Gospel of Life
vs. the Culture of Death.” He is also
host of the EWTN segment series “The
Crux of the Matter.”
His many theological and doctrinal presentations have been featured
on EWTN Radio, Ave Maria Radio,
Guadalupe Radio Network, Covenant
Network Radio, Catholic Broadcasting
Northwest and Voice of Virtue Interna-
Father Menezes
Bishop Cullen
tional.
Bishop Emeritis of Allentown Edward Cullen
Bishop Cullen was ordained a priest
May 19, 1962 at the Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul, Philadelphia by Cardinal
John Krol.
He was named Honorary Prelate to
His Holiness Pope John Paul II April
24, 1982. He served as archdiocesan
vicar general and vicar for administration 1988-98 and was consecrated a
bishop, as auxiliary bishop of Philadelphia, April 14, 1994.
Bishop Cullen was installed as the
third bishop of Allentown Feb. 9, 1998
at the Cathedral of St. Catharine of Siena, Allentown by Cardinal Anthony
Bevilacqua. His motto “Christ, Church,
Compassion” reflected his spiritual and
prayerful life.
Having served as the third bishop of
Allentown beyond his 75th birthday, the
Holy Father accepted his resignation on
May 27, 2009.
As bishop of Allentown he issued
two pastoral letters: “Experiencing the
Love of Our Triune God,” on the Feast
of the Most Holy Trinity, May 18, 2008;
and “The Cross and Suffering,” subtitled “The Bridge to the Transformation
of the Soul,” on Ash Wednesday, Feb.
25, 2009.
He also issued a reflection the Holy
Spirit Nov. 1, 2012 on the occasion of
the 50th anniversary of his ordination as
a priest that year.
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The A.D. Times
Diocese
October 15, 2015
Families
Marriage and Family Life
}}Continued from page 1
•
Marriage Preparation (“One in
Christ”) evangelizes
couples to strengthen the institution of marriage in
our society.
•
Parent enrichment and family enrichment opportunities
are offered across the diocese
throughout the year.
•
Marriage seminars/workshops
are presented throughout the
diocese to strengthen marriages.
•
The annual Diocesan Anniversary Mass recognizes milestone
anniversaries and celebrates the
Sacrament of Marriage.
er overturn an important truth: women’s
precious, nurturing role in family life. It’s
part of the nature of women.
“It’s especially powerful for all women here tonight to pray for families. You
are the nurturers.”
He said Pope Francis is expected to
canonize Blessed Louie and Zelie Martin
later this month during the synod. They
are the first married couple to be canonized as a married couple together, and
are the parents of St. Therese of Lisieux
(1873-97), whose feast day is Oct. 1.
“St. Therese of the Little Way did everything, even the littlest things, for the
love of God,” Msgr. Schlert said. Though
St. Therese never left the monastery, she
prayed ardently for the missionary work
of the church, and is a patron of missionaries.
“St. Therese was canonized in 1925.
She’s a saint for our own times and one
of the most popular saints in the Catholic
world,” Msgr. Schlert said.
How did she become a saint? First,
by God’s grace. Second, “Her family life
was centered on the Eucharist, church,
prayer and the Gospel,” Msgr. Schlert
said. “Her parents instilled that in their
children. All their children became Carmelite nuns.
“St. Therese wrote God was so good
to her he gave her parents more worthy
of heaven than earth.”
He noted the Martins were not a family of means, and had many problems
and challenges. Louie was a watchmaker
and Zelie was a lacemker who died early
of breast cancer, leaving her husband to
Msgr. Alfred Schlert leads women in
prayer.
Above, women of the diocese attend
the holy hour hosted by the diocesan
Commission for Women (CFW).
Left, Kathy Corpora serves as lector.
Below, lay women and women religious pray during the evening service.
raise their daughters. Though he was at
times depressed, his faith never wavered.
“Family life is at times a pressure
cooker with tensions and anxieties. Other times it’s a greenhouse where love
grows,” Msgr. Schlert said.
He added while in Philadelphia, Pope
Francis called the family “a factory of
hope.”
“Our great hope lies in strong family living,” Msgr. Schlert said. “Married
couples are called to love and support
each other and raise children. Above all
they are called to bring each other to holiness.”
Of the Martins, Msgr. Schlert said,
“They are real people, not plastic figures. They drew their strength from the
Blessed Sacrament, in reception and adoration.”
“The whole church needs to support
family living,” Msgr. Schlert said, emphasizing strong families make a strong
church and world. Today, he said, families face the challenge to marriage defined as between one man and one woman – as God intended – and disrespect for
human life.
“The weakening of the family leads
to weakening of the practice of faith and
weakening social standards, when things
happen that we never thought we would
see,” Msgr. Schlert said.
“Family life’s challenges and joys can
all be wrapped in the loving arms of our
savior.”
The commission hosted this event to
“gather women and girls to pray because
we have a special way of bringing life,”
said Nancy Berchtold, chairwoman for
CFW. She voiced her hope that women
Mary Fran Hartigan, secretary of the diocesan Secretariat for Catholic Life
and Evangelization, back right, greets CFW members during a time of fellowship after the service, from left: front Kathy Corpora, JoAnne Pekarik, Joan
Zawisza, Rosanne Venditto, Debra Barnak Burke and Michele Minetola; back,
Kimberly Stella, Nancy Berchtold, Joan Norelli, Rosemary Cozzolino and
Christine Favocci.
“gather to pray together to ask for God’s
grace on the Synod for the Family, to see
each other’s faces, to embrace the grace.”
Kathy Corpora, secretary for the commission, said CFW wanted women and
young women of all ages – mothers,
daughters, sisters, friends, aunts, grandmothers and granddaughters –to come
together and to pray for the synod.
The holy hour was followed by light
refreshments and fellowship in the parish activity center.
For more information on future
events hosted by the CFW, contact Vice
Chairwoman Christine Favocci, 484633-6187 or [email protected]; and
“Like” them on Facebook.com/ADCommissionForWomen.
Journeys to justice: learning and action
What do Jews and Christians understand by the terms “justice” and “social
justice”?
What is the relationship between faith
communities and justice?
What drives faith-based organizations
to serve justice?
What is the individual’s role – your
role – in these enterprises?
The Institute for Jewish-Christian Understanding (IJCU) of Muhlenberg College, Allentown will journey to explore
these questions and more.
Individuals, friends and families are
encouraged to participate: study religious
foundations; engage representatives from
a variety of service initiatives; discuss
with neighbors of other faiths what justice means to them; not only hear and
discuss, but visit sites to understand on
the ground – from volunteers, clients and
others – the meaning of the work.
The journeys will be planned at the
IJCU fall minicourse “Justice in Jewish
and Christian Perspectives,” Wednesdays, Oct. 28 through Nov. 18 from 7 to
9 p.m.
Presenters will be:
Rabbi Stephen Wylen, a Reform Jew-
ish rabbi who has taught in the religion
studies program of the University of
Scranton and is the author of the widely
used introductory textbook on Judaism,
“Settings of Silver” (Paulist Press).
Dr. Harley Lachter, director of the
Berman Center for Jewish Studies at Lehigh University, Bethlehem, where he is
associate professor and department chair
in religion studies.
Jesuit Father Daniel Joyce, executive
director of mission programs and adjunct
faculty in theology at St. Joseph’s University. He specializes in issues of social
justice in both academic and practical dimensions.
And hold these dates (minicourse participation not required for these events):
Wednesday, Jan. 20 – “Packing for the
Journeys,” justice projects in the region.
February-March – Dates to be announced for optional hands-on, on-site
visits.
Tuesday, March 29 – “Unpacking the
Journeys,” a closing interreligious dialogue.
For more information: http://www.
ijcu.org or 484-664-3470.
Diocese
October 15, 2015
The A.D. Times
Music Ministry members honored at appreciation Mass
By TARA CONNOLLY
Staff writer
“As the World Meeting of Families
(WMOF) nears it is a time to thank you
for participating in music ministry and to
thank you for helping our families give
glory to God,” said Bishop of Allentown
John Barres Sept. 13
to cantors, musicians,
and choir members
“Today is
and directors at the
Cathedral of St. Catha time to
arine of Siena, Allenconnect
town.
more
Bishop Barres was
deeply to
the main celebrant for
your minthe bilingual Music
Ministry Appreciaistry with
tion Mass, where he
a radical
recognized and laudcontemed them for their muplative
sical work.
spirit.”
“Today is a time to
connect more deeply
to your ministry with
a radical contemplative spirit,” he said.
Bishop Barres highlighted Peter’s reply to Christ, who asked him “Who do
you say I am?” and told the ministry
members that their answer is similar.
“Peter so often gets things wrong. He
gets it immediately right this time when
he says ‘You are the Christ.’ You have
said ‘You are the Christ’ through your
ministry that gives glory to God,” he said.
He said the Holy Spirit is “upping the
ante” and calling them to become more
deeply connected to church liturgy and
meditate on the cross.
Above, the Diocesan Choir sings during the Music Ministry Appreciation Mass
at the Cathedral of St. Catharine of Siena, Allentown. (Photos by John Simitz)
Below, music ministry members sing during Mass Sept. 13.
“Some of your own unique contributions to music ministry have come
from some kind of experience of per-
Above, Bishop of Allentown John Barres
welcomes faithful involved in music ministry to the cathedral.
sonal crosses in your life. In the midst of
your crosses you have said ‘You are the
Christ,’” said Bishop Barres.
He also urged the men and women to
reflect on the role of the family in relation to the gift of music.
“So often it is a family affair. Pope
Francis really wants us to go deeply in
thanking God for our families. By thanking God we open ourselves deeper to
families,” said Bishop Barres.
“The Holy Spirit wants us to examine how well we listen to others. So often
during stressful moments the first thing to
erode is our Christocentric listening that
comes from the power of the cross. We
want to be good listeners to our spouses
and our brothers and sisters,” he said.
In keeping with the mission of
WMOF, Bishop Barres said, it is a time
to carry the cross of radical forgiveness
among family members.
“We have all been hurt at one time or
another by a family member. But when
we radically forgive from the depths of
our souls – that is where we find true liberty,” he noted.
He also called WMOF a time to tell
stories of the faith and for praying for the
departed souls of loved ones.
“It is time to pass down the stories of
our faith. It is time for family members to
hear about the holiness, love of the Mass
and witness to the faith of those that
have gone before us. It is time to make
the faith intergenerational,” said Bishop
Barres.
In addition, he said, WMOF is a time
for individual conversion.
“Conversion leads to rippling effects
in marriages and families,” he said.
“Let’s open ourselves to WMOF and
allow its graces to flow from our families
to all families in the world.”
Faithful listen to the bilingual readings from the Scriptures.
Left, presenting the
offertory gifts are,
from left, Mary Lake,
Diana Sweeney and
Wendy Ohlsen, parishioners of St. Elizabeth of Hungary,
Whitehall.
Above, the St. Elizabeth choir joins Bishop Barres during a reception after
Mass.
Left, choir members from St. John XXIII, Tamaqua meet Bishop Barres at the
reception.
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The A.D. Times
Diocese
October 15, 2015
Apologetics
}}Continued from page 1
“A person may see your dedication to
a life of faith and want to know more,”
said Schulz.
“If a person approaches you – they are
‘open’ because you have established trust.
At this point it is not a
good idea to preach.
Ask them questions
“Trying
about their spiritual
to make
journey. See how God
the act
has been moving them
and connect the dots.
infertile
If appropriate, ask
is imif you can pray with
moral.
them,” he said.
Not havAt the actively
ing sex
seeking stage, he said,
the person is not lookis moral.
ing for answers but
That is
rather a relationship
the difwith God.
ference.”
“Over half of Catholics in the pew don’t
believe it is possible
to have a personal relationship with God.
Most Catholics view God as a law giver,”
he said.
“What you can do at this point is incorporate them into your prayer life or
invite them to Mass. Take them to adoration. Christ wins over hearts. Sometimes
you need to get out of the way.”
Intentional discipleship is when a moment of conversion occurs and the person
turns their heart over to Christ.
“The task of apologetics at this point
is easy. Find the right time and place to
discuss the faith – but don’t lecture or use
a sledgehammer,” he said.
Faithful listen during the forum at St. Michael Parish Center of Queenship.
Although the term “apologetics”
comes from the Greek language meaning
“speaking in defense,” Schulz cautioned
against entering into dialogue with a person attacking the faith.
“You could make a point to explain the
faith – but it won’t win over their heart.
If a person is being defensive – stop the
conversation and change the topic,” advised Schulz.
“We have to be realistic and understand that persons are embodied human
beings. In most cases, a good example
will do more than an argument.”
Schulz continued the discussion
by addressing sexual ethics and offered
suggestions for discussing contraception
and the church’s view of marriage.
“Through sex we form a set of relationships. For many of us they are the
most important relationships in our lives.
Family life is an essential part of the
reproductive process. It is through the
reproductive process that we are given
brothers, sisters, parents, grandparents
and a spouse,” he said.
Therefore, Schulz said, the church has
only one rule about sex: any action that
deliberately frustrates, damages or destroys the procreative or unitive purposes
of human sexuality is immoral.
“Procreative and unitive purposes
should be available in sex. The church
tells us to have both of these and to pro-
tect what is given during the act,” he said.
He said adultery, divorce, homosexuality, same-sex marriage and premarital
sex are activities that take away from
family life.
“Those things take parents away from
children. Children have the right to be
raised by a mother and a father,” maintained Schulz.
“Homosexual families find themselves
with children only due to fornication, divorce, in-vitro fertilization or adoption.
Every one of these involves the loss of
a mother or father for the child,” he said.
In addition, he said, contraception deliberately sterilizes sex.
“There are virtuous ways available.
The church does not have an official
number of how many kids you should
have. God gave you reason. Be prudent
in determining when to have children and
how many,” said Schulz.
He suggested Natural Family Planning
(NFP) as a “beautiful alternative to [artificial] contraception.”
“Yes, you have to abstain for about
a week. But do other things, like talk,
watch a movie or go for a walk. There
are a thousand nonsexual ways to express
love to a spouse. Couples who only express love through sex – do not have this
language,” said Schulz.
“The real attraction to NFP is that
there are no side effects and it is relationship building.”
Even though NFP and contraception
achieve the same goal, Schulz said, one
process is moral and the other is not.
“Trying to make the act infertile is immoral. Not having sex is moral. That is
the difference,” he said.
The forum was sponsored by the diocesan Office of Adult Formation.
Left, men and women
listen during the discussion examining sexual
ethics.
Right, Schulz discusses
responses to explain
the faith properly.
Apologetics forum series Nov. 4 to address ‘Confession and Purgatory’
“Confession and Purgatory” will be
the topic of the next session in the new
event series of the Diocese of Allentown
Office of Adult Formation called “Apologetics Forum: The Catholic Faith Explained.”
“Apologetics,” derived from the Latin
adjective “apologeticus,” is a theological
science for the explanation and defense
of the Christian religion.
This free new series will discuss topics
within the faith that many of our contemporaries disagree with or don’t ascribe to.
Many of us believe the church’s teachings, but don’t know how to speak about
them with our neighbors, co-workers and
children.
This series of forums will change that.
The forum will prepare lay Catholics
with the tools of how to discuss the challenging teachings of our great faith.
Presenter for the next session will be
Msgr. Michael Chaback, a former professor of systematic theology, Wednesday, Nov. 4 at 7 p.m. at St. Michael Parish Center, Queenship of Mary Parish,
Northampton.
The discussion will include: Why do
we need to confess our sins to a priest?
Can’t we go directly to God? Isn’t Jesus’
death enough to save me? Is purgatory a
second chance? Is purgatory in the Bible?
For more information, contact the
Office of Adult Formation, [email protected] or 610-2898900, ext. 21.
It pays to advertise in The A.D. Times
Contact Lori Anderson
at [email protected] or 610-871-5200, ext. 273
Diocese
October 15, 2015
Father Michael
Paris to be
homilist for
Father Walter
Ciszek Day
Father Michael Paris, a priest of
the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C.,
will be homilist
at this year’s Father Walter Ciszek
Day, Sunday, Oct.
25 at St. Casimir,
Shenandoah.
Main celebrant
will be Msgr. Ronald Bocian, board
president of the
Father Walter Ciszek Prayer League
and pastor of Divine Mercy Parish,
Shenandoah. The Father Paris
league is the official organization
for the promotion
of the cause of canonization of Father
Ciszek.
The day will begin with Adoration
of the Blessed Sacrament at 1 p.m., followed by Divine Liturgy at 2 p.m. and
social at 3:30 p.m. There will also be an
opportunity to visit the new center from
5 to 6 p.m.
Shenandoah native Father Ciszek
was arrested in 1941 under accusations
of espionage for the Vatican and sent to
the Lubyanka prison in Moscow, where
he spent a total of five years, most of it
in solitary confinement. In 1942 he was
drugged and signed a confession under
severe torture, and was sentenced to 15
years hard labor in the Gulag.
Father Ciszek continued to pray, celebrate Divine Liturgy, hear confessions,
conduct retreats and perform parish
ministry. Until he was allowed to write
to America in 1955, he was presumed
dead by his family and the Jesuit order.
He was released Oct. 12, 1963 as
part of an exchange for two Russian
spies. After his return Father Ciszek
worked at the John XXIII Center at
Fordham University, N.Y. He died Dec.
8, 1984, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, and is buried at the Jesuit Novitiate, Wernersville.
His cause for canonization began
in the Ruthenian Byzantine Catholic
Eparchy of Passaic, N.J. and was later
transferred to the Diocese of Allentown. Co-postulators are Msgr. Anthony Muntone, retired priest of the Diocese of Allentown, and Father Thomas
Sable, associate professor of theology/
religious studies at University of Scranton.
Father Paris encountered the writings of Father Ciszek through his spiritual director in college seminary, Father
Jeffrey Walsh.
He was ordained a priest in 2011 and
spent his first four years at St. Patrick,
Rockville, Md. This past summer he
was assigned as assistant chaplain to
the University of Maryland and George
Washington University.
For more information: Father Walter Ciszek Prayer League, 231 N. Jardin St., Shenandoah, PA 17976-1642;
570-462-2270; [email protected];
www.ciszek.org.
The A.D. Times
Applications for
poverty relief
grants announced
The Diocese of Allentown is accepting
grant applications for the Local Poverty
Relief Fund.
Proceeds from the annual diocesan
collection are used to fund projects and
services that alleviate or address poverty
as approved by the bishop of the diocese.
Consideration of eligibility will be
given to projects identified by a local organization, including St. Vincent de Paul
Societies within the Diocese of Allentown. Requests from individuals will not
be considered.
Projects must demonstrate appropriate use of funds, oversight and fidelity
to church teachings. Organizations that
receive these funds must not participate
in or promote activities that contradict the
moral and social teachings of the church.
The active participation of Catholic
pastors, parishes and other institutions is
encouraged.
An electronic version of the application is available. Applications must be
completed and returned by Friday, Nov.
13 to receive a response by March 1,
2016.
For more information, contact Pam
Russo, secretary of the Secretariat for
Catholic Human Services and executive
director of Catholic Charities 610-4351541, or Robert Olney, director of the
diocesan Office of Marriage and Family
Life Formation, 610-289-8900.
‘Encountering Christ in the Sacraments’ Nov. 2 in Reading
“How can I encounter Christ in the
church? Is Christ truly present in the sacraments?”
These are among the questions to be
discussed Monday, Nov. 2 during “Faith
and Spirits” at P.J. Whelihan’s Pub and
Restaurant, 1101 Rocky Road, Reading.
The informal discussion “Encounter-
ing Christ in the Sacraments” will be presented from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. by Father
Gene Ritz, chaplain of Berks Catholic
High School, Reading, in residence at St.
John Baptist de la Salle, Shillington.
The diocesan Office of Adult Formation is offering the discussion.
There is no charge for attending. Food
and beverages will be available for purchase from the menu.
All adults are welcome. Bring a friend
or come yourself.
For more information: 610-289-8900,
ext. 21; [email protected].
Courses on ‘Classroom Applications’ and ‘Prayer and Spirituality’
The diocesan Institute for Catechesis and Formation is offering courses on
“Classroom Applications” and “Prayer
and Spirituality.”
“Classroom Applications” (CAT II)
will discuss practical information for catechists on their role as formators in the
faith.
It includes learning to create lesson
plans, communication with parents and
how to engage them in religious instruction, material delivery at age-appropriate
levels, and more.
It will be offered at three locations, 7
to 9 p.m.:
Bethlehem Catholic High School –
Tuesdays, Oct. 27, Nov. 3, 10 and 17; facilitator Kevin Kimmel.
Marian High School, Tamaqua –
Wednesdays, Oct. 28, Nov. 4, 11 and 18;
facilitator Mary Ellen Johns.
Berks Catholic High School, Reading
– Thursdays, Oct. 29, Nov. 5, 12 and 19;
facilitator Peggy Place.
“Prayer and Spirituality” (ICF 201)
will provide a basic introduction to the
fundamentals of a Catholic prayer life
and spiritual dispositions. Participants
will examine what it means to pray, why
we pray, and how to have a fruitful prayer
life.
Practical exercises of traditional Catholic prayers and devotions will be covered so they will learn how to express
themselves to God and hear his voice.
The two-session class will be offered
at three locations, Saturdays, Nov. 7 and
14 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.:
Berks Catholic High School, Reading
– facilitator Father Jack Barron.
Bethlehem Catholic High School – facilitator Father Kevin Gualano.
Nativity BVM High School, Pottsville
– facilitator Joan Wassel.
Cost is $30. To register, visit www.
allentowndiocese.org/icf. For more infor-
mation, call 610-289-8900, ext. 21 or email adultformation@allentowndiocese.
org.
7
8
The A.D. Times
Diocese
October 15, 2015
October 15, 2015
Opinion
We can decide to suffer well
When I visit the hospitalized and elderly, I some- and savior of man, who alone accomplishes “univertimes offer a prayer that I adapted from the church’s sal and definitive redemption from sins” (CCC 432).
Pastoral Care of the Sick and Roman Missal:
He does this by taking on our human nature, entering
“Father, your son and our savior Jesus Christ ac- completely into the joys and sorrows of human expericepted our sufferings as a model of patience and ence.
strength in human illness. Hear the prayers we offer
Did you ever consider that, by virtue of the Incarfor [Name] and for all who suffer distress of body or nation, Jesus accepted not just every single sin, but
soul. Help them to realize that you have called them to also every single human suffering: every pain, disapholiness by joining their sufferings to the sufferings of pointment and inconvenience? Upon the holy and lifeChrist for the salvation of the world.”
giving cross, Our Lord endured that twinge of diabetic
If you think such formalized prayers take a lot to neuropathy, the sting of that insult, that hour-long trafsay and a lot to live, I agree on both counts. For that fic jam and that fear of perpetual infertility. From his
reason, I like to say them slowly and live them slowly. vantage point – the best seat in the house – it’s all unI’m lying: I don’t like to live them slowly. A der control.
watched coffeepot never brews; an impatient patient
The problem is, we can still slog through life
never heals.
without necessarily considerThe word “patient”
ing the real-time presence of
comes from the Latin
Christ in our sufferings. As a
“It seems helpful to savor each
“pati” which means “to
result, we begin to complain.
breath as we draw it, each feeling as
suffer, endure, put up
We begin to compare our
we feel it, each option as we ponder
with,” or the most basic
perception of how our lives
it and each decision as we make it.”
sense, “to wait.” Pati also
are going with how we think
yields “passion,” the inthey should be going, or how
tensity that accompanies
someone else’s life seems to
lovers toward love’s fulfillment. Suffering persons are be going – or how they want us to think it’s going.
also in love: they long for health and vitality, and canPractically speaking, God becomes less real and
not wait until they get there.
relevant in those dreary moments, and our suffering
We draw only so many breaths in this life, and per- loses its value.
haps we pay little attention to the balance until more
We can regain the value of our suffering by keepbreaths are behind us than ahead. Meanwhile we have ing Jesus’ Passion foremost in our minds, in weather
no guarantees that we shall retain the full use of our foul or fair. Practicing in the fair may make it easier
physical or mental faculties.
in the foul.
Therefore it seems helpful to savor each breath as
With the onset of each unwelcome experience, we
we draw it, each feeling as we feel it, each option as can pray in groans to this effect: “I unite myself right
we ponder it and each decision as we make it.
now to you, Lord Jesus. As you suffered for me and
In whatever condition we find ourselves, while we with me, so I suffer for you and with you. Please achave our faculties, we can decide to suffer well. What cept this offering, Lord, as small it may seem, and
a curious choice. For the sake of clarity, let’s unpack please share it throughout the world so that it may
it:
benefit whomever you will.”
First, to suffer well is to recognize Jesus as the son
I say “pray in groans” because you probably might
The A.D. Times
By Father Christopher Zelonis,
pastoral minister at Schuylkill
Medical Center and Nursing
Homes, in residence at St. Clare
of Assisi, St. Clair.
not be inclined to formulate such a pious formula in
the midst of pain and distress.
A couple of months ago I was in an accident that
landed me in an emergency room for most of that day
with a wide laceration on my left heel and lots of deep
bruises in the foot. In those first hours the thought
“Thank God, it could have been far worse” mingled
with fears that I would hardly be able to walk straight,
let alone run, by next year’s Boston Marathon.
On that ER bed I did my awful best to unite my
pains and anxieties with those of Our Lord upon the
cross, with the hopes that my offering could help facilitate someone’s repentance and conversion.
I am happy to report that I am recovering appropriately, although it’s not as fast as I’d prefer. At every
turn in this process I have noticed how impatient a
patient I am.
But Our Lord is so patient with us. He lets us go,
gives us the freedom to gripe until we return once
again to our senses. In the meantime, the experience
has been an opportunity to grow in compassion for the
people I visit in the hospitals and nursing facilities I
serve.
Even as the human race exists in a sort of “communion of sin,” joined by our profoundly wounded human nature and its self-seeking tendencies, the church
incorporates men and women into the Communion of
Saints, forgiven and redeemed by the Precious Blood
of Christ.
If anything could be said about any of the saints,
they suffered well, uniting themselves with their Lord
for the salvation of souls. How I long to be in that
number.
9
The A.D. Times
10
Diocese
October 15, 2015
Our Lady of Good Counsel will commemorate 100 years of faith Oct. 18
By TARA CONNOLLY
Staff writer
Our Lady of Good Counsel (OLGC),
Bangor will mark a century of faith Sunday, Oct. 18 with a Centennial Mass of
Thanksgiving celebrated by Bishop of
Allentown John Barres.
Father Stephen Maco, pastor, who will
concelebrate the Mass, said the parish
was established in 1915 after the Vincentians (Congregation of the Missions)
assessed the needs of English-speaking
Catholics in the Slate Belt region.
According to the parish history, Father
Joseph McKey served the faithful from
Pen Argyl, Wind Gap, West Bangor, Martins Creek and Portland by celebrating
Mass in an empty clothing store on Main
Street, Bangor.
“The congregation was anxious to establish a permanent church and did so by
raising funds,” said Father Maco.
Father McKey purchased a piece
of land on South Second Street. It was
dedicated Aug. 1, 1915 by Archbishop of
Philadelphia Edmond Prendergast.
The parish was originally dedicated
under the name St. Vincent, but was soon
changed to Our Lady of Good Counsel by
the Vincentians.
On Sept. 2, 1918 the first Mass was
celebrated by Father McKey and Father
Jeremiah Tracey, the first pastor of the
Our Lady of Good Counsel was dedicated in 1915 to serve faithful in the Slate
Belt region.
new parish.
Five years later, under the pastorate
of Father Blake, a mission church was
established by the Vincentians to accommodate the faithful who were walking 10
miles to worship at OLGC. The mission
was named St. Vincent de Paul, and the
first Mass was celebrated at the Fulmer
house on State Street, Portland.
By 1939 many improvements and repairs were completed at OLGC and the
mission. Under the pastorate of Father
Henry Young both churches were refitted
with new interiors, and new vestments
Vibrant Parishes as Schools of Prayer and the New Evangelization
The Diocese of Allentown is committed to pastoral and strategic planning that cultivates vibrant parishes that
are schools of prayer and the New Evangelization.
•
Vibrant parishes make a vibrant diocese.
•
The diocese is a champion of the parish and respects the individual identity and charism of each parish (principle
of subsidiarity) while seeking to see the individual needs of each parish in the context of pastoral diocesan/regional
planning, planning that makes the parish and the diocese together prophetic catalysts of holiness and mission.
•
Pope Francis: “The parish is not an outdated institution; precisely because it possesses great flexibility, it can assume
quite different contours depending on the openness and missionary creativity of the pastor and the community…. In
all its activities the parish encourages and trains its members to be evangelizers.”
Parish mission Nov. 15-17
at Notre Dame of Bethlehem
Deacon Harold
Burke-Sivers will
be the presenter at
the upcoming parish mission of Notre
Dame of Bethlehem, Sunday, Nov.
15 through Tuesday,
Nov. 17.
There will be
a conference each
evening at 7 p.m. on Deacon
Burke-Sivers
the topics:
Sunday – “Living
a Eucharistic Faith.”
Monday – “Catholics and the Culture
War.”
Tuesday – “An Apocalyptic Awakening: The Message of the Blessed Virgin
Mary for Our Time.”
Deacon Burke-Sivers’ work has appeared in Envoy Magazine, The Catholic
World Report and The National Catholic
Register. He co-hosts the weekly broad-
cast “Living Stones,” every Monday on
Mater Dei Radio, and has appeared as
a guest on numerous other national and
international radio programs, including
“Catholic Answers Live,” “Catholic Connection,” “Kresta in the Afternoon” and
“Vocation Boom Radio.”
In addition, he is the host or co-host of
several popular series on EWTN television, including “Behold the Man: Spirituality for Men,” “Made in His Image:
Family Life Today,” “Christ the Servant:
The Vocation of Deacons,” “Authentically Free at Last” and “Priests and Deacons: Ministers of Mercy.”
Deacon Burke-Sivers is featured on
“The Greatest Commandments: A 40Week Spiritual Journey for Married Couples,” a marriage-enrichment program
rooted in biblical values.
He and his wife Colleen live in Portland, Ore. and have four children.
For more information on the parish
mission, call 610-866-4371.
Mass of Remembrance
St. Ann Chapel at Holy Family Manor,
1200 Spring St., Bethlehem.
A reception for guests will follow in
Grace Mansion Lobby.
Visitors may enter the chapel from
Prospect Avenue or through the Holy
Family Manor Main Entrance on Spring
Street.
RSVP is requested by Monday, Nov.
2 to the Development Office, 610-9978409 or [email protected].
A Mass of Remembrance honoring
the souls of deceased loved ones who received care at Holy Family Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Grace
Mansion or Trexler Pavilion Personal
Care Homes during the past year will be
Saturday, Nov. 7.
The Mass will begin at 10:30 a.m. in
and vessels were purchased.
In total, 16 Vincentians were appointed pastors throughout the history of
OLGC. In 2002 the Vincentians withdrew
from the parish and OLGC began being
served by priests
of the Diocese of
Allentown.
“Much like
Father
Larry
the foundHess was aping faithful,
pointed pastor in
2002 and Msgr.
our parishThomas Derzack
ioners are
succeeded him in
very dedi2009. Father Maco
cated to the
was named pastor
parish. Most
in 2011.
“Much like the
of the parfounding faithful,
ish mainour parishioners
tenance is
are very dedicated
performed
to the parish. Most
by parishioof the parish maintenance is perners. They
formed by parishare kind
ioners. They are
and givkind and giving
ing people
people who never
who never
hesitate to help,”
said Father Maco.
hesitate to
The 100th anhelp.”
niversary Mass of
Thanksgiving will
be celebrated at
noon. The parish will also celebrate with
a luncheon after the Mass.
OLGC is a parish consisting of an estimated 700 families.
The parish mission statement is: “We
recognize that we are a sacrificial giving
and welcoming community rooted in the
Gospel mission of Jesus Christ. It is for
each of us to adhere to the teachings of
the Catholic Church while recognizing
our responsibility to proclaim the Good
News to a world wounded in need of
God’s healing love, forgiveness and guidance.”
Deaths
Religious sisters
Sister Magdelaine Hill, 86 formerly
known as Joan Marie Hill, died Oct. 1
at the Dominican Life Center, Adrian,
Mich.
In 1950 she made profession as a
member of the Sisters of Christian Charity in Mendham, N.J. June 30, 1975 she
transferred to the Adrian Dominican
Congregation.
Sister ministered in elementary and
secondary education for 54 years. In
the Diocese of Allentown she served as
a secondary teacher at Msgr. Borneman
High School, Reading 1956-69. She also
served in Scranton, Hazelton, Williamsport and Philadelphia, Pa.; Baltimore,
Md.; Bronx, N.Y.; and Orlando and Winter Park, Fla.
Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Oct. 5 at Dominican Life Center,
with burial in the congregation cemetery.
Sister Anne McMahon, 98, formerly
Sister Catherine Philomene, a professed
Sister of St. Francis of Philadelphia, died
Oct. 4 in Assisi House, Aston.
She ministered primarily in education, child care and pastoral ministry.
In the Diocese of Allentown she served
at St. Francis Orphanage, Orwigsburg.
She also served in the Archdiocese of
Philadelphia; Archdiocese of Baltimore,
Md.; Diocese of Charleston, S.C.; and
in Delaware, Massachusetts, New Jersey,
North Carolina, Oregon and Washington.
Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Oct. 7 at Assisi House, with burial in
Our Lady of Angels Cemetery.
Sister Janice Miriam Bahl, 78, formerly Sister John Andrew, died Oct. 7 in
Assisi House, Aston. She was a professed
member of the Sisters of St. Francis of
Philadelphia.
She was born in Allentown, graduated
from Catasauqua High School and was a
parishioner of Annunciation BVM, Catasauqua. She entered the congregation
in 1962 and professed her first vows in
1965.
Sister Janice earned a bachelor of arts
degree in social sciences from Neumann
University, Aston, and a master of arts degree in religious studies from St. Charles
Borromeo Seminary, Philadelphia. She
ministered primarily in education and
parish ministry.
In the Diocese of Allentown she ministered for three years in parish ministry at St. Andrew, Catasauqua. She also
served for 48 years in the Archdiocese of
Philadelphia.
During her later years in education and
parish ministry, Sister Janice also served
as a consultant for Silver Burdett/Ginn
Publishing Company; records manager
for the Sisters of St. Francis 2003-08; and
with the Religious Education Institute at
Neumann University.
Surviving are her cousins.
Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Oct. 14 at Assisi House, with burial in
Our Lady of Angels Cemetery.
October 15, 2015
Diocese
The A.D. Times
11
12
The A.D. Times
Youth & Young Adults
‘Upon This Rock’ on witchcraft and occult
“No Gods Besides Me: On Witchcraft
and the Occult” will be the topic of the
next “Upon This Rock,” a young adult
speaker series sponsored by the diocesan
Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry.
The event will be Friday, Oct. 23 from
6 to 8 p.m. at Muhlenberg College, Allentown, in the Newman Center, 2339
Liberty St.
Speaker will be Father Brendon Laroche, assistant pastor of Holy Infancy,
Bethlehem.
All young adults ages 18 to 35 are
welcome.
The event is free of charge, young
adults are invited to come and bring a
friend.
For more information, visit www.
allentowndiocese.org/oyyam or e-mail
[email protected].
October 15, 2015
Theology on Tap
Nov. 9 in Pottsville
Young adults are invited to gather for
Theology on Tap Monday, Nov. 9 from
6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Roma Pizzeria, 116
W. Market St., Pottsville.
Father Robert Finlan, pastor of St.
Joseph, Frackville, will address “Thou
Shalt Not: The Seven Deadly Sins.”
Theology on Tap is an invitation for
young adults in their 20s and 30s (ages
21 to 35) to learn more about their faith
in a fun and relaxed setting.
For more information, contact Sue
Matour in the Office of Youth and Young
Adult Ministry, [email protected], or visit www.allentowndiocese.
org/tot.
Next CYO Coaches Clinics Nov. 14, March 16
The next of two remaining CYO
Coaches Clinics for the 2015-16 school
year will be Saturday, Nov. 14 from
9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at St. Michael the
Archangel School, 4121 Old Bethlehem
Pike, Bethlehem.
Reservation deadline is Wednesday,
Nov. 11.
The last clinic will be Saturday, March
19, 2016 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at a
Upcoming issues
of The A.D. Times
place to be announced.
Reservation deadline will be Wednesday, March 16.
These clinics provide an overview of
insurance requirements, sports medicine,
and the integration of our Catholic faith
and CYO.
All CYO coaches are required to attend a coaches’ clinic within one year of
starting to coach or they will be ineligible
to coach. No walk-ins will be permitted.
Cost is $25, checks payable to Diocese
of Allentown (credit card payment also
available).
A registration form with more information is at http://www.allentowndiocese.org/coaches.
For more information on registration,
contact Nancy Kantz, 610-289-8900, ext.
28 or [email protected].
Publication DateAdvertising DeadlineNews Deadline
October 29October 19October 22
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Diocese
October 15, 2015
The A.D. Times
13
Mary’s Shelter marks 20 years of celebrating life
By TAMI QUIGLEY
Staff writer
Mary’s Shelter celebrated two decades
of helping expectant mothers and their
babies with a 20th Anniversary Banquet
Sept. 17 at Stokesay Castle, Reading.
“I’m pleased to join in the celebration of Mary’s Shelter celebrating helping young women and their babies …
each one of you fills a role in bringing the
kingdom of God among us,” said Bishop
of Allentown John Barres, guest speaker
for the festive evening.
Mary’s Shelter provides residential
and nonresidential services for pregnant
women and women with newborns in
need of suitable housing or favorable
family relationships. Mary’s Shelter prepares mothers with newborns for independent living and a vision of hope for
the future.
There are three locations: Mary’s
Shelter and Mary’s Home, Reading; and
Mary’s Shelter Cay Galgon Center, Bethlehem.
“My hope is that we are never satisfied
with providing the minimum amount of
help possible, but rather that we always
strive to provide the maximum amount of
love imaginable,” said Christine Folk, executive director of Mary’s Shelter.
Missionary of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus (MSC) Sister Eileen Kantz, center, who has been with Mary’s Shelter since 1996, greets Amy Bishop, left, and
Samantha Krause, two of the former residents who shared their stories during
the 20th Anniversary Banquet of Mary’s Shelter Sept. 17 at Stokesay Castle,
Reading. (Photos by John Simitz)
James Sweeney, chairman of the board
for Mary’s Shelter, welcomed those gathered and highlighted the attendance of
Bishop Barres; Dr. Thomas Flynn, president of Alvernia University, Reading;
and John Morahan, president and CEO
of Penn State Health St. Joseph (formerly
St. Joseph Regional Health Network),
Reading. Flynn and Morahan will cochair Mary’s Shelter’s new capital cam-
paign.
Sweeney voiced thanks that Alvernia
offers a full scholarship to women who
qualify from Mary’s
Shelter. To date, 18
women are college
“Mary’s
graduates,
mostly
Shelter’s
from Alvernia.
residents
The event honored
are all
the shelter’s “Friends
heroes …
in Faith” from church
communities for their
they are
dedication and supgrace
port: Advent Lutheramong
an, West Lawn; Holy
us.”
Guardian
Angels,
Reading; St. Benedict,
Mohnton; St. Catharine of Siena, Reading; St. Columbkill,
Boyertown; St. Ignatius Loyola, Sinking
Spring; St. Mary, Hamburg; St. Mary,
Kutztown; St. Mary, Reading; and St.
Michael Lutheran Church, Hamburg.
Also, St. Paul, Reading; St. Paul United Methodist Church, Geigertown; St.
Peter, Reading; and West Lawn United
Methodist Church.
Bishop Barres honored Mary’s Shelter’s dedicated staff and residents, noting
they show “God’s abundant love for us.”
Please see SHELTER page 15 }}
Mary’s Shelter timeline
1995 – Opened doors with one employee and volunteers helping nine women (clients) the first year.
1999 – Expanded network of referrals and services to agencies in the community.
Served over 100 community clients.
2001 – Opened Mary’s Home transitional housing. Mother and baby receive housing and supportive services for one to two years while working on their education or
job training.
2003 – Mary’s Shelter Scholarship Fund established; 18 college graduates since
established.
2005 – Mary’s Shelter Endowment Fund established.
2008 – Mary’s Shelter new program started, accepting families (pregnant women
with additional children) and served 10 families the first year.
2012 – Mary’s Shelter Cay Galgon Center, Bethlehem opens as Mary’s Shelter’s
third facility. It is a maternity home for seven pregnant women and their children.
2015 – 20th anniversary celebration. Mary’s Shelter has 23 employees, staffing
three locations. It annually provides housing to 150 mothers, newborns and toddlers,
and social services to over 650 low-income families from the community.
Above, Morgan Rose, right, another former resident who spoke at the banquet, shares a smile with her children Ahnre and Braylon.
Right, James Sweeney, chairman of the board for Mary’s Shelter, welcomes
guests to the banquet. Listening at right are Dr. Thomas Flynn and John Morahan.
Above, Pam Russo, secretary of the Secretariat for Catholic Human Services
and executive director of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Allentown, left, greets
Sister of Mercy Janet Henry, vice president of mission and ministry at Penn
State Health St. Joseph, Reading.
Right, gathered for the festive event are, from left, Neal Swarmer, Morena and
Dennis O’Brien, Jenny Swarmer and Father Kevin Bobbin.
14
The A.D. Times
Diocese
October 15, 2015
Diocese
October 15, 2015
The A.D. Times
15
Vocation night Nov. 1 at St. Jane
“A Vocation Evening of Prayer and
Enlightenment” will be offered Sunday,
Nov. 1 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at St. Jane
Frances de Chantal, Easton.
Speakers from the priesthood, women’s religious life and a married couple
will explain their personal vocations.
There will also be brief adoration of the
Blessed Sacrament and benediction.
This prayerful evening of adoration
and enlightenment will be an opportunity
to pray for an increase in vocations to the
priesthood, religious and married life in
our diocese.
The parish vocation committee has
been preparing for this day, since last
year – and with the canonization Saturday, Oct. 18 of the parents of St. Therese
of Lisieux, the evening’s theme has become timely.
The saintly lives of the first couple to
be canonized together – Louis and Zelie
Martin – are an example of the influence
of faithful parents on the future of their
beloved children.
Samantha Krause attends the celebration with her identical twin sons
Ayden, left, and Ayven.
Shelter
}}Continued from page 13
“Mary’s Shelter’s residents are all heroes … they are grace among us.”
Bishop Barres said Mary’s Shelter respects the life, dignity and future of all
residents. “When the community is united for a single purpose, it’s powerful.”
It’s so important for the women “to become self-sufficient before they leave and
practice good citizenship – giving back
when they can. That’s a big part of life,”
said Missionary of the Most Sacred Heart
of Jesus (MSC) Sister Eileen Kantz. She
has been with Mary’s Shelter since 1996,
first as program director and now as a
consultant.
She was clearly joyful to see former
residents, including three who shared
their stories: Morgan Rose, Samantha
Krause and Amy Bishop.
Rose attended with sons Ahnre, 8
months, and Braylon, 7. She was a resident at Mary’s Shelter in 2008 and then
Mary’s Home, which she left over a year
later.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today or
the person I am today without their help,”
Rose said.
Krause was there with her 10-year-old
identical twin sons Ayven and Ayden. She
left Mary’s Home in 2007.
“They still help me now. They motivate me to want to help others,” Krause
said. “At Mary’s Shelter I started to get
my life back to where it needed to be. It
was the first time I was in a safe environment.”
Bishop attended with her 13-year-old
son Xavier and younger daughter Kylie.
Bishop and Xavier left Mary’s Home in
2002.
“As a whole, for the community
Mary’s Shelter gives women hope that
they don’t have to give up their child for
adoption or have an abortion. There are
people out there who want to help complete strangers,” Bishop said.
She especially credited Mary’s Home
with giving her an education, as she received a bachelor’s degree in accounting
on a full scholarship to Alvernia.
“Twenty years ago one courageous
woman, Jan Lindsay, and a host of dedicated volunteers took a leap of faith and
opened Mary’s Shelter,” said Folk.
“The vision for this maternity home
was to provide practical, hands-on, immediate assistance to young women facing an unexpected pregnancy and the
homelessness that follows because they
decided to carry the baby to term. Jan’s
vision was definitely pro-life and her approach was extremely pro-active. This vision and philosophy still holds true today.
“We address the immediate concerns
by providing a safe place to sleep, a hot
shower and a warm meal. We address
the short-term concerns by assisting with
medical care, education, employment and
future housing. We address the long-term
concerns by creating a loving family atmosphere that will shape the child’s future.”
For more information, visit www.
marysshelter.org.
Fair trade sales event to benefit Catholic Relief Services
Ten Thousand Villages, a national fair
trade retailer and one of the world’s largest and oldest fair trade organizations, is
announcing its partnership with the international humanitarian agency Catholic
Relief Services with a one-day kickoff
sale Friday, Oct. 16 at all 78 stores.
Fifteen percent of designated sales
that day will be donated to CRS’ Fair
Trade Fund that provides grants to arti-
san and farmer groups overseas, as well
as the fair trade movement in the United
States.
Shoppers are encouraged to visit
stores that day or shop online using coupon code CRS2015.
Participating store locations in the
Diocese of Allentown are Lifestyle Center at Lehigh Valley Mall, Whitehall,
and Hackman’s Bible Book Store, 1341
Mickley Road, Whitehall.
For more information on the community shopping event, visit www.
crsfairtrade.org/ten-thousand-villages;
about CRS Fair Trade, www.crsfairtrade.
org.
Catholic school fall open house dates
Elementary schools – Berks County
Holy Guardian Angels Regional
School, 3125 Kutztown Road, Reading
– Sunday, Oct. 25, 1 to 2 p.m., 610-9294124, [email protected].
Sacred Heart School, 701 Franklin
St., West Reading – Sunday, Oct. 18, 1
to 3 p.m., 610-373-3316, bgasperack@
sacredheartreading.org.
St. Catharine of Siena School, 2330
Perkiomen Ave., Reading – Tuesday,
Nov. 10, 9 to 11 a.m. and Monday, Dec.
14, 9 to 11 a.m., 610-779-5810, altbscs@
ptd.net.
Elementary schools – Carbon County
St. John Neumann Regional School,
641 W. Washington St., Slatington –
Grades K-3, and 259 Lafayette Ave.,
Palmerton – Grades 4-8 – Thursday, Nov.
12 and Thursday, Dec. 10, 10 a.m. to 6
p.m., 610-826-2354, [email protected].
Elementary schools – Lehigh County
St. Ann School, 435 S. Sixth St., Emmaus – Thursday, Oct. 29, 6:30 to 7:30
p.m., 610-965-9220, [email protected].
St. Elizabeth Regional School, 433
Pershing Blvd., Whitehall – Tuesday,
Oct. 20, 10 a.m. to noon and 1:15 to 2:30
p.m., 610-264-0143, [email protected].
St. Michael the Archangel School,
Elementary School Campus, 5040 St.
Joseph Road, Coopersburg – Wednesday,
Oct. 28, 5:30 to 7 p.m., 610-867-8422,
[email protected].
Elementary schools – Northampton
County
Good Shepherd Catholic School, 1300
Newport Ave., Northampton – Saturday, Oct. 24, Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt
– Early Childhood Education Preview
Event, in the school gym, 10 to 11 a.m.,
610-262-9171, [email protected].
Holy Family School, 17 N. Convent
Road, Nazareth – Transfer Information
Night, Thursday, Nov. 12, 6 to 9 p.m.,
610-759-5642, [email protected].
Holy Infancy School, 127 E. Fourth
St., Bethlehem – Wednesday, Dec. 9, 9 to
11 a.m., 610-868-2621, [email protected].
St. Anne School, 375 Hickory St.,
Bethlehem – Sunday, Oct. 25, 9:45 a.m.
to 1:30 p.m., 610-868-4182, ebrida@
stannebethlehem.org.
High schools
Allentown Central Catholic High
School, 301 N. Fourth St., Allentown
– Sunday, Nov. 8, 2 to 4 p.m., 610-4374601, [email protected].
Bethlehem Catholic High School,
2133 Madison Ave., Bethlehem – Sunday, Nov. 1, 2 to 4 p.m., 610-866-0791,
[email protected].
Nativity BVM High School, One
Lawtons Hill, Pottsville – Sunday, Oct.
25, 6 p.m., meet and greet for all seventh
and eighth grade families, 570-622-8110,
[email protected].
Notre Dame High School, 3417
Church Road, Easton – Sunday, Nov. 1,
Mass at 10 a.m., followed by tours and
information sessions, 610-868-1431,
[email protected].
16
The A.D. Times
Diocese
October 15, 2015
Diocesan laity volunteer, witness at Papal Visit and World Meeting of Families
By TAMI QUIGLEY
Staff writer
Please see LAITY page 19 }}
Staff writer
Dr. Joshua Schulz, left, wearing hat, and Dr. Rodney Howsare, front right, wearing
tie, with the group from the theology and philosophy departments of DeSales University, Center Valley outside the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia
Sept. 22 at WMOF. (Photo courtesy Joshua Schulz)
Rodney Howsare, right front, with the DeSales group Sept. 22 before hearing the
WMOF presentation “The Family as Holy Anarchy.” (Photo courtesy Joshua Schulz)
Jennifer Smith poses with a life-sized
cutout of Pope Francis before departing from Most Blessed Sacrament, Bally
for the Sept. 26 Festival of Families in
Philadelphia. (Photo courtesy Jennifer
Smith)
Above, Pope Francis kisses and blesses 7-year-old Alex Vincent during the
pontiff’s Aug. 16 general audience at St. Peter’s Square. (Photo courtesy Anita Vincent)
Sharon Helms, liturgical volunteer for WMOF, and
John Cocco, Knight of Columbus, parishioners of
St. Benedict, Mohnton, wait to line up and walk to
their position as volunteers at the Sept. 27 Papal
Mass as Holy Communion escorts for a priest or
deacon. (Photo courtesy Sharon Helms)
Left, Susan Matour, second from right, greets the Franciscan Daughters of
Mary of Covington, Ky., from left, Sister Mary Elizabeth, Sister Catherine Mary
and Sister Clare, during the Youth Congress. (Photo courtesy Susan Matour)
Diocesan seminarians participate in WMOF and welcome Pope Francis
By TARA CONNOLLY
Staff writer
Seminarians for the Diocese of Allentown experienced joy and excitement as the
long-awaited visit of the Holy Father to St.
Charles Borromeo Seminary, Philadelphia
culminated with his arrival in a black Fiat
Sept. 26
“Before he arrived we all gathered outside the main entrance to the seminary on
the steps. We had practiced this so many
times that at first it was hard to grasp that
the Holy Father was actually on his way,
but this soon became evident,” said Philip
Maas, diocesan seminarian.
Maas and 12 other diocesan seminarians
were part of the estimated 150 seminarians,
deacons, priests and bishops, who formally
welcomed the Holy Father to the seminary.
The Holy Father arrived there to rest and address bishops from around the world Sept.
27.
Maas said the seminarians and priests
sang hymns as they awaited the motorcade
to pass through the entrance gate.
“I was excited that immediately prior to
his arrival, we began a three-part arrangement of the song ‘O Sacrum Convivium,’
World Meeting of Families
exceeds diocesan expectations
By TARA CONNOLLY
The laity of the Diocese of Allentown –
and those with roots in the diocese – was
well represented during the papal visit of
Pope Francis and the World Meeting of
Families (WMOF) in Philadelphia Sept. 2227.
Susan Matour
“After many months of planning, the excitement surrounding the WMOF and the
corresponding Youth Congress was palpable and the energy in Philadelphia invigorating,” said Susan Matour, director of the
diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult
Ministry (OYYAM), who spent the week at
the Youth Congress.
“Inside the Youth Congress, there was
incredible excitement and a few butterflies
as we anticipated opening the doors to the
1,600 youth who were registered.”
“Watching the faces of the children light
up with laughter and joy as they experienced the various activities – such as making a pope puppet, decorating a time capsule, performing a Gospel drama, singing
and dancing – to the teens who at the end
of the week were hugging, saying goodbye
with the words ‘Text me,’ was spectacular
and provided a snapshot of the universality
of our Catholic faith – that we are truly one,
regardless of nationality, language, culture,
connected through our faith in Christ.”
Matour said one of the most inspiring
parts of the entire week for her was to see
the many volunteers – with a special call out
to the sisters from various religious orders,
seminarians, brothers, priests, deacons,
bishops and even a cardinal – who gave of
their time to make this experience meaningful and memorable for the children in attendance.
“Throughout the week, many of the
children gravitated back to the same small
group leader because of the bond and connection they had made with them and with
the others in their group,” she said.
“On a personal note, it was wonderful
to attend the Festival of Families with my
own family and to watch the excitement and
enthusiasm on the faces of my young adult
children and hear my daughter’s voice ex-
17
Bishop Timothy Senior, rector of St. Charles Borromeo Seminary, awaits the
arrival of the Holy Father at the entrance of St. Charles Borromeo Seminary.
(Photo by Ed Koskey)
and in an almost providential way the
pope’s motorcade turned into the seminary
right as we began singing the final words of
the song, a repetition of the word ‘Alleluia!’
Deacon Stephan Isaac, middle left, and
Deacon David Anthony, middle right, await
the arrival of Pope Francis to St. Charles
Borromeo Seminary. (Photo by Ed Koskey)
It seemed very fitting,” said Maas.
“Then of course the church-choir atmosphere broke out into exuberant applause
and shouting as he got closer and exited his
Fiat.”
Although Pope Francis did not directly
address the seminarians, Maas said it did not
affect his popularity.
Seminarians clap and cheer as they welcome Pope Francis to the seminary. (Photo
by Ed Koskey)
“I think his presence was message
enough for the seminarians. Pope Francis
has certainly had unparalleled popularity in
and outside the church. I think this will lead
many back to Christ’s fold,” he said.
Maas said the pontiff did share a few
Please see SEMINARIANS page 30 }}
The World Meeting Families (WMOF) surpassed the hopes and desires of diocesan faithful and staff seeking to improve family life and their relationship with God at the world’s
largest Catholic gathering of families in Philadelphia.
The eighth WMOF, “Love is Our Mission: The Family Fully Alive,” drew 20,000 registered attendees – 17,000 preregistered and 3,000 same-day registration attendees – shattering the record of 7,000 at WMOF 2011 in Milan, Philippines.
After the announcement that WMOF 2015 would be in held in Philadelphia – staff
from the diocesan Secretariat for Catholic Life and Evangelization (CLE) embarked on 18
months of planning and organizing for diocesan faithful.
Robert Olney, coordinator of the Office of Marriage and Family Life Formation, was
assigned as the point person
for WMOF. He represented the
diocese at planning meetings in
Philadelphia and coordinated diocesan efforts to commemorate
the event.
Also a member of the diocesan core planning team, Olney
oversaw the diocesan opportunity
for 100 representatives, which included families, couples and individuals, to represent the diocese
as delegates at.
“I was very blessed to have
been given the opportunity to attend the entire WMOF and the
Festival of Families. The keynote
and breakout speakers were inspiring,” said Olney.
“What continues to stand out
in my mind are the many families
from around the world that I was
able to meet. They offered a powerful witness of God’s love. It was
Rick Dooley, right, with actor Clarence Gilyard at
a beautiful event.
“It was a worthwhile experi- the World Meeting of Families.
ence. The families from our diocese who attended WMOF shared they had a very powerful experience in Philadelphia.
WMOF most reminded me that ultimately it all comes down to love – love is our mission.”
Susan Matour, director of the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry (OYYAM),
assisted in the planning and organizing activities for the Youth Congress for young people
ages 6 to 17 who were registered and attending with their family.
The Youth Congress was an interactive program designed around building, creating,
playing, listening, serving and embracing the “Mission of Love” that brings “Families Fully
Alive.”
“The entire Youth Congress was wonderful,” said Matour. “Young people were put in
random groups. As the week went on, they began requesting to be with new friends they
met. They really formed a huge bond.”
Matour helped lead an estimated 1,600 youth in creating time capsules, packing meals to
be shipped to Africa and creating rosaries.
“The time capsule was designed to allow youth an opportunity to not only collect items
that they would like to save as a reminder of the WMOF and their trip to Philadelphia but
items that may help them as they grow in faith, hope, and love,” she said.
“ Attendees decorated their time capsule with stickers and markers, and then wrote a letter to their future self, describing themselves and their families.”
During the Youth Congress, Matour said one of the most popular activities was “Catechism Quest,” which was a computerized trivia game about the faith.
“The kids challenged Ascension Press by asking them to make a donation to WMOF
if they answered 5,000 questions correctly. They reached their goal and were filled with
excitement,” she said.
“It was a spiritual experience of service.
There
was a ton of energy and happiness ev“It was a spiritual experience
erywhere,” said Matour.
of service. There was a ton of
Rick Dooley, assistant coordinator of the
energy and happiness everydiocesan Office of Adult Formation, attended
where.”
WMOF as a participant to attend presentations offered by dynamic speakers like Father
Robert Barron, Dr. Scott Hahn, Professor Helen Alvaré, and Dr. Greg and Lisa Popcak.
“It was like Catholic Disneyland,” said Dooley. “I was awestruck seeing by the immensity of the room and troves of people from other countries.”
“The presentations were great and the break-out sessions were fascinating,” said Dooley.
Unable to attend every presentation, Dooley said he later watched videos of the presentations that he missed.
Dooley also bumped into actor Clarence Gilyard, co-star of the TV series “Walker, Texas
Ranger,” who was handing out schedules and told him that he converted to Catholicism
after being invited to Mass several years ago.
“It was great to hear his story and hear stories from other families,” said Dooley.
Mary Fran Hartigan, secretary for the Secretariat for Catholic Life and Evangelization,
also attended WMOF.
“It was a joy to not only see families but people with young families, lots of strollers,
and children with special needs in wheelchairs were spotted throughout the conference,”
she said.
“I was also struck at how many people were there from other countries. It shows the
universality of the church. There was a joy-filled spirit that permeated the congress. It was a
great evangelization moment that put the church in a positive light,” said Hartigan.
5. Fire hydrant
10. Knights of Columbus
ceremonial hat
2. Standup
Pope Francis
The A.D. Times
1. Nittany Lion.
3. Priest (Msgr. David James)
6. Miter
2. Standup
Pope Francis
18
How did you do?
6. Miter
Diocese
4. Long white beard
6. Miter
7. Miter on a shirt
8. Child stroller
8. Child stroller
3. Priest (Msgr. Victor Finelli)
3. Priest (Msgr. Alfred Schlert)
9. Pope Francis on a shirt
October 15, 2015
In the Oct. 1 issue we ran this group photo of some of the 2,000
participants at the Diocese of Allentown’s Papal Mass viewing
event Sept. 27 at SteelStacks, Bethlehem, and challenged our
readers to find some objects and people. Some of you let us know
how you did via e-mail and social media. For those of you who
were unable to find everything, here are the answers.
Diocese
October 15, 2015
The A.D. Times
19
Laity
}}Continued from page 16
claim, ‘There he is,’ as the pope passed
us by, followed by cheers and spontaneous tears of joy from all around,” said
Matour.
“The week-long adventure culminated
in my husband David and I being able to
be present at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary when the pope addressed the bishops and cardinals,” said Matour.
Her husband David is in formation to
be a deacon for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, and the diaconate formation
community and their wives were invited
to attend the pope’s address to the bishops.
“The excitement, anticipation and
energy within St. Martin’s Chapel as
we anticipated the arrival of Pope Francis reminded me of Christmas morning
when my children were little. The sound
of clapping as the seminarians greeted
Pope Francis and then suddenly all rising to their feet and clapping loudly when
he entered the
chapel – again,
at that point,
“The exciteanother example of all of us
ment, tension,
united in our
and energy
love and fidelwithin St. Marity to the Vicar
tin’s Chapel as
of Christ.”
we anticipated
“Upon reflection, the rethe arrival of
sounding mesPope Francis
sage of unity,
reminded me
the importance
of Christmas
of the family,
morning when
on the church
accompanying
my children
and supportwere little.”
ing
married
couples
and
families, and
the necessity of prayer, was exactly the
message that my husband, David, and I
needed to hear, and I am so grateful to
God for the beautiful gift of my faith, my
family and Pope Francis.”
Valerie DeBellis-Hochburg
Valerie DeBellis-Hochburg and her
family were excited to spend the week
in Philadelphia at the Marriott next to
the Philadelphia Convention Center, attending the World Congress, Festival of
Families and Mass with Pope Francis.
She attended with her husband Robert
Hochburg and their daughters, 15-yearold Mary and 12-year-old Elizabeth.
The family, parishioners of St. Peter,
Greenville, Diocese of Raleigh, N.C.,
left Sept. 19 to make the trip north and
returned home Sept. 28. DeBellis-Hochburg is the daughter of Deacon Charles
and Janet DeBellis of Easton.
DeBellis-Hochburg teaches at East
Carolina and Pitt Community College,
Greenville. Her husband teaches at the
University of Dallas, a Catholic university. Their daughters attend Catholic
school; Mary is a sophomore and Elizabeth a seventh-grader.
The Vincent family gathers in St. Peter’s Square in August, from
left: front, Alex; back, Alvin, Anita and Sebastian. (Photo courtesy
Anita Vincent)
Valerie DeBellis-Hochburg, left, and her family, from
left, daughter Mary, husband Robert and daughter
Elizabeth Hochburg, wait for the Festival of Families
to begin Sept. 26 in Philadelphia. (Photo courtesy
Valerie DeBellis-Hochburg)
“We love this culture and we love this
life,” DeBellis-Hochburg said of being
Catholic.
She said she and her husband were
married in 1998, and a year later their
marriage was blessed in Rome during a
Wednesday audience with St. Pope John
Paul II.
“We have a great excitement for the
culture of being Catholic. We’re excited
to share this with our children, especially
now – they will learn what God’s design
is for the family,” DeBellis-Hochburg
said.
She also marveled at more than 100
countries being represented at WMOF
and was happy their children could see
“how much bigger the Catholic community is from where we live.”
And since their daughters were born in
the South, DeBellis-Hochburg was also
Marriage and Family Life
•
Marriage Preparation (“One in Christ”) evangelizes couples to
strengthen the institution of marriage in our society.
•
Parent enrichment and family enrichment opportunities are
offered across the diocese throughout the year.
•
Marriage seminars/workshops are presented throughout the diocese to
strengthen marriages.
•
The annual Diocesan Anniversary Mass recognizes milestone anniversaries
and celebrates the Sacrament of Marriage.
Ed Siegfried, parishioner of Most Blessed Sacrament, Bally, prepares the main course for the pig
roast held after viewing the Papal Mass Sept. 27
at St. Columbkill, Boyertown. He was assisted by
Ellen Siegfried. (Photo courtesy Franciscan Sister Jean Wickenheiser)
The family that drove from Argentina to attend the congress
is pictured before they paint the mural to break the Guinness
Book of World Records. On the wall to the right is one of the
completed mural paintings. (Photo courtesy Valerie DeBellisHochburg)
anxious for them to “taste a real Philadelphia cheesesteak.”
“How blessed we are, as a family, to
have been part of these events,” said DeBellis-Hochburg.
She and her husband participated in
the WMOF conference sessions, and
their daughters in the Youth Congress.
The family participated in a family
service project for Catholic Relief Services – Helping Hands Meal Packing Event
where the goal was to pack 200,000 nutritious meals.
The family viewed the “Verbum Domini II: God’s Word Goes Out to the
Nations” presented by Museum of the
Bible where they saw exhibits from one
of the largest private collections of rare
biblical texts and artifacts in the world.
They saw fragments from the Dead Sea
Scrolls, a near-complete copy of the book
of Psalms in Greek on papyrus, and a first
edition of the King James Bible. DeBellis-Hochburg said it was “amazing.”
They attended the world premiere of
Cormac O’Duffy’s “The Wedding Feast
of the Lamb” oratorio at the historic St.
John the Evangelist Church, sung by
Christine Nass (soprano), David Koh
(tenor), John Drystyniak (baritone) and
the Villanova Choir, with music from
String Theory and GAMP Orchestra.
“Absolutely amazing performance.”
“We painted a portion of a mural that
will be put up in Philadelphia commemorating the WMOF and helped to break a
Guinness Book of World Records for the
most number of people to create a work
of art,” said DeBellis-Hochburg.
The mural, titled “The Sacred Now:
Faith and Family in the 21st Century,”
was created by artist Cesar Viveros into
153 5-foot-square panels of parachute
cloth, which was created into a “paint by
number” format so congress participants
could contribute to the creation.
In addition to Mass celebrated by
Pope Francis, we attended Masses at St.
John the Evangelist Church and the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul. We
were asked to bring up the gifts at Sunday
Mass while attending St. John the Evangelist. We walked down the same aisle
where SS. Katharine Drexel and John
Neumann walked,” DeBellis-Hochburg
said.
“Of course, Pope Francis at Independence Mall and the WMOF and Mass on
Sunday was the all-time highlight.”
As a mother, DeBellis-Hochburg’s favorites were Pope Francis talking about
families and how, sometimes in families
... “plates fly,” yet we are called, in these
moments, to respond in love.
“His message reminded me of a time
when I was a teenager living in my own
family and my brother decided to do
a press handstand on the back of two
kitchen chairs. My father, Deacon Charlie DeBellis, was in the bathroom shaving in preparation for attending some
principal’s meeting. All of a sudden my
brother fell, with a crash, on top of the
Please see LAITY page 20 }}
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The A.D. Times
Laity
}}Continued from page 19
kitchen table, broke it in half, and all the
plates went flying. Literally,” DeBellisHochburg said.
“Dad came running into the kitchen,
half-shaven, to find my brother lying
on top of the broken table, dishes and
glasses. The rest of the family, still in
their seats from dinner, sat in silence and
shock as we waited on what was about to
happen.”
Her father picked up his son from
amid the broken glass, checked if he was
hurt reprimanded him and said, ”Don’t
ever do that again.”
“Thankfully, my brother was not hurt.
Dad returned to continue getting ready
for his meeting and we all cleaned up the
mess,” DeBellis-Hochburg said.
“It is in those private family moments;
in the midst of the chaos, that we are
called to respond in love. In doing so,
the memory is sealed for the next generation, and the family becomes better able
to live out its mission, according to God’s
design.”
“What a blessing. The next WMOF
is scheduled for Dublin, Ireland in three
years,” she said.
Most Blessed Sacrament, Bally and St.
Columbkill, Boyertown
Most Blessed Sacrament (MBS), Bally ran a bus for the Festival of Families
Sept. 26.
MBS parishioner Karen Smith, bus
captain, said 22 people made the trip.
Her daughter, Jennifer Smith, is longterm fourth grade substitute teacher at St.
Francis Academy Regional School, Bally.
The Smiths said “everyone was itching with anticipation in getting a glimpse
of Pope Francis. The drive turned eerie
when traveling on the Schuylkill Expressway where no traffic was in sight due to
the road closures. The bus had delivered
the travelers to the Sports Complex and
took the subway to Center City.”
“Standing in line for security was another adventure,” the Smiths said. They
explained that for three hours, the group
waited to pass through gates into the festivities. While they were waiting, another
group of travelers began playing ‘Alleluia’ with guitars and bongos. Everyone
in the crowd was joining in even though
they did not know most of the words.
“There was a sense of peace and unity in
the air,” said Jennifer Smith.
Once through security, the group took
off toward the Benjamin Franklin Parkway to find a place to wait and see the
Holy Father. The group decided to stand
close to the gates lining the parkway and
a jumbotron to watch the entertainment,
but the Smiths decided to travel farther
down the parkway to see as much of Eakin’s Oval as they could.
Jennifer Smith said, “This is an amazing experience” that will never be forgotten. The Smiths then returned to the
group to await Pope Francis’ arrival.
After some star-studded performances, the moment had finally arrived to see
the Holy Father. “Pope Francis traveled
around the parkway blessing the crowd
with his bright-cheery smile,” the Smiths
said.
The popemobile traveled by quickly,
but a glimpse was all the Smiths needed
to feel his presence. When he finished his
journey around the parkway, Pope Francis held a brief prayer service. “The beautiful words of the pope held true to what
this day was all about,” said Karen Smith.
“Overall, this was a lifetime experience that we will never forget. It is something that you feel blessed to be a part
of,” the Smiths said. They were anxious
to watch the Papal Mass Sept. 27 from
their home and tell the stories of their ex-
Diocese
periences for years to come.
In addition, more than 400 people
attended the pig roast MBS and St. Columbkill had Sept. 27 after watching the
Papal Mass on a big screen at St. Columbkill.
Father Martin Kern, pastor of St. Columbkill, said he had this idea even before the Diocese of Allentown planned
the SteelStacks event in Bethlehem.
Father Kern said MBS and St. Columbkill “already share a school, so this
was a great way for the church in southeastern Berks County to celebrate a great
moment in the life of the church.”
“At the celebration in Boyertown we
really felt one with our Holy Father in
Philadelphia,” said Msgr. Edward Coyle,
pastor of MBS. “We really felt one as
church, the Body of Christ. We were not
there physically, but we were in spirit.”
“It was a wonderful day as both parishes came together to celebrate the papal
visit,” said Msgr. Coyle. “People watched
the pope on a large screen in church. Dinner was served in Quinn Hall and outside
under tents.”
Msgr. Coyle said the group consumed
two pigs and many covered dishes of local foods. A free will offering was taken
to support the work of each parish’s St.
Vincent de Paul Societies.
Msgr. Coyle was also invited to the
White House for the welcoming ceremony for Pope Francis as he is the national
chaplain for the Catholic War Veterans of
America.
St. Columbkill ran a bus carrying 37
faithful to the Papal Mass.
Rayann Vasko
Rayann Vasko, technology manager at
St. Anne School, Bethlehem, was also a
papal visit volunteer. She volunteered for
two shifts Sept. 26 at the parkway events
and at the Papal Mass the next day.
Vasko was quick to say this was the
best experience she ever had. “I am so
glad I got to do this and that I did it volunteering. I worked the check-in security gates and sometimes there was a few
hours waiting line. We must have processed thousands and thousands of people, and everyone was nice except one. It
was just an awesome experience.”
“I got to help people from all over
the world who all came to see the pope.
It was like Pope Francis brought a kind
of peace with him because everyone was
great,” Vasko said.
“I was at the security gate and didn’t
think I would get into the Mass. Fortunately I did get to go in and I was pretty
late but somehow ended up fairly close.
All those people there and you could hear
a pin drop during the Mass. I was even
lucky enough to receive Communion.
I had a fabulous group of volunteers. I
couldn’t ask for better ones.
“I have never worked so hard in my
life but I don’t regret one minute. I am so
glad I was here as a volunteer. Had I come
as a spectator I would have missed the
opportunity of talking to so many people
of different cultures. What a wonderful
experience – one I will never forget.”
Anita Vincent
Anita Vincent and her family planned
to attend Pope Francis’ Mass in Philadelphia Sept. 27, but unfortunately could not
due to illness.
Still, she feels blessed to have encountered the pontiff not even a month prior
to his U.S. visit. The Vincents – Sebastian
and Anita and their sons Alvin and Alex –
are parishioners of Our Lady of Perpetual
Help, Bethlehem.
The family went on a pilgrimage to
Fatima, Lourdes, and Our Lady of Miraculous Medal (Paris) and Rome. While in
Rome, they attended the Aug. 26 general
audience of Pope Francis at St. Peter’s
Square.
“As the pope’s jeep came close to us,
October 15, 2015
Pope Francis asked to stop, as he saw a
baby next to us and wanted to bless her.
Before we knew it, our 7-year-old son
Alex was carried off to the pope by the
security person. Alex was kissed and
blessed by Pope Francis and my husband
and I were in tears,” said Vincent.
“I have to say that the pope is every bit
a people’s pope as he is reputed to be. It is
an indescribable feeling to be so close to
him. He is truly an inspiration for us all.” Vincent said even though they
couldn’t go to Philadelphia, they watched
the Mass live through the USCCB website, and “Although it wasn’t as powerful
as being in the actual presence of Pope
Francis – as when we were at St. Peter’s
Square in Rome – it was still thrilling to
see him celebrate Mass.
“And we got a better view than we
ever would have if we’d been in Philadelphia. We had been following the pope
through the USCCB website’s live video
feed, and the video on demand, from the
time he arrived in Washington, D.C. I am
so grateful that the USCCB gave us the
gift of the live video feeds” Sharon Helms
Sharon Helms, parishioner of St.
Benedict, Mohnton, organized the buses
for that parish but didn’t travel with them,
as she was a WMOF volunteer during the
week. She was also chosen to carry a yellow and white umbrella with a priest for
distribution of Communion at the Papal
Mass. “I am so honored,” she said.
Helms, a liturgical volunteer, and
fellow parishioner John Cocco of the
Knights of Columbus said, “We felt so
honored to serve at the Papal Mass for the
closing of WMOF 2015.”
“The
Philadelphia Archdiocese/
WMOF 2015 allowed us to keep our Papal Mass umbrellas – what a blessing and
memento,” Helms said.
DeSales University
A group from the philosophy and theology departments of DeSales University,
Center Valley traveled to WMOF Sept.
22. Those going included Dr. Rodney
Howsare, professor of theology, and Dr.
Joshua Schulz, associate professor of philosophy.
“We took 19 people, including 10
students plus some alumni students and
alumni professors to see Fabrice Hadjadj’s talk “The Family as Holy Anarchy,”
with Cardinal Gerhard Müller, prefect of
the Congregation for the Doctrine of the
Faith, commenting,” Schulz said.
“Fabrice discussed the way the family naturally resists the technocratic and
centripetal forces of modern culture,
challenging us to love our families – who
we might never have chosen to be friends
with – with charity and grace.”
Michael O’Connor
“My wife, daughter and I had the
privilege of attending the WMOF and
participating during the papal visit,” said
Michael O’Connor, parishioner of St.
Joseph, Frackville. He serves on the national level as the Knights of Columbus’
supreme treasurer and a member of the
supreme board of directors.
O’Connor attended with wife Patricia
and daughter Mary Kathleen.
“The WMOF transformed Philadelphia into a beautiful community of
faith. It was remarkable to see thousands
of sisters, priests and Catholic families
participating in the Masses and the special events at the convention center and
touring the city,” O’Connor said.
“My family and I are blessed to have
had the opportunity to pray and interact
with families from all around the world.
Even though we all came from different
cultural backgrounds, we were all united
by our faith.
“It was an absolute honor to have Pope
Francis journey to Philadelphia for the
conclusion of the WMOF. The Catholic
community of Pennsylvania is so blessed
to have had the Holy Father in our home
state.
“During the Festival of Families, Pope
Francis spoke from the heart and often
without a prepared statement. He emphasized the importance of caring not only
for our children but also for our older
family members. Pope Francis described
the family as ‘a factory of hope.’ It was
absolutely amazing to hear him speak.
“Families from all over the state of
Pennsylvania traveled to Philadelphia to
volunteer for the Papal Mass and to line
the city streets to catch a glimpse of the
Holy Father. Philadelphia, on this special
weekend in September, was not only a
‘city of brotherly love and sisterly affection,’ but also a city of faith, hope, and
love.”
Kelly DeRaymond
Kelly DeRaymond had a wonderful
experience as a WMOF volunteer. She is
director of religious education for youth
at St. Anthony of Padua, Easton; youth
minister at St. Anthony and Our Lady of
Mercy, Easton; and director of religious
education for adults at St. Jane Frances
de Chantal, Easton. Previously she taught
theology at Notre Dame High School,
Easton.
“I had an opportunity to go see both
St. Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict
XVI but chose not to go because I did not
want to get in the middle of the massive
crowds. I was determined the next time a
pope came to America I was going,” DeRaymond said.
“So not only did I get in the middle of
the massive crowd, I was directing them.
I decided that I wanted to volunteer for
the event. I don’t know why because we
were told that we were not guaranteed
anything – that we may not even get to
see the pope since most of us were going to be working at the security points
blocks from where he would be.”
DeRaymond volunteered for Tuesday,
Saturday and Sunday. “Tuesday I was
stationed at the airport to welcome in the
planes of pilgrims coming to the WMOF.
I volunteered for Saturday morning and
Saturday night but ended up working all
day. Every time I was supposed to be
done someone would call for ‘Orange
Shirts,’” DeRaymond said.
“I cannot begin to explain how proud
I was to be a Catholic this weekend. Our
Holy Father had people so excited about
their faith and so excited to see him. No
one could wait to hear what he would
say to us next. I have been around other
‘celebrities’ and at many other very large
events, but the feeling at this event was
‘spiritual.’”
DeRaymond said most people stood
in lines for hours and although they were
tired, they were joyful. She stood with
Secret Service men, state police and Philadelphia police who told DeRaymond
they had never seen anything like it …
people who were joyful.
“Sunday I was stationed at one of the
jumbotrons and a group of about 100
very joyful people arrived to ask for directions,” said DeRaymond.
“When I pointed to where they were
supposed to go and explained that the
wait was four hours or more, they joyfully took seats on the ground by the jumbotron, knowing that they would not see
the pope for sure or even receive Communion.
“About five minutes later I saw the
pope’s helicopter coming and I yelled for
them to look up at the pope. They began
to yell and scream as if he could see or
hear them. I saw one older woman with
tears rolling down her cheeks as she told
her friend, ‘We saw the pope.’”
Diocese
October 15, 2015
The A.D. Times
Recalling special ‘personal audience’ with St. Pope John Paul II
By TAMI QUIGLEY
Staff writer
The September visit of Pope Francis
to the United States propelled Frank Scattene to recall a past papal Mass with St.
Pope John Paul II.
Scattene’s eyes met the eyes of the future saint on a German road leading out of
a military base more than three decades
ago, and it is a moment forever etched in
Scattene’s heart and memory.
How did Scattene come to have this
“personal audience” with the pontiff?
Let’s start at the beginning.
Scattene, parishioner of St. Anne,
Bethlehem and former parishioner of
Holy Family, Nazareth, recalled that almost 35 years ago, in November 1980,
he was the U.S. Army’s fund control officer for the Papal Mass at Mainz-Finthen
Army Airfield just outside of Mainz, Germany (then West Germany).
“I was stationed as a finance officer
in Wiesbaden, Germany at the time, and
our office supported soldiers in the Wiesbaden and Mainz military communities,”
Scattene said.
“As such, the U.S. military needed
someone to accumulate its cost of moving aircraft, providing security, and clearing for potential explosives prior to and
during the Mass held on the airfield,”
Scattene said.
“I got to meet Norman Schwarzkopf,
who was a one-star or brigadier general
in command of Mainz military community at the time, and also had a special ‘personal audience’ with Pope John Paul.”
A “Stars and Stripes” article published
Nov. 17, 1980 states 200,000 people saw
the pope at the Mass and gave him an
“exuberant welcome” on that second day
of his five-day, seven-city West German
visit.
Scattene recalled in September 1980
he was a second lieutenant assigned as
a finance officer for the Seventh Finance
Section at Wiesbaden Airbase, (West)
Germany.
“Sometime in October my commander
told me I was going to be assigned as the
fund control officer for the Papal Mass at
Mainz-Finthen Army Airfield,” said Scattene.
“During this assignment as the fund
control officer for the U.S. Army for
the Papal Mass, I was given access to
anywhere on the base on the day of the
Mass.”
Scattene said the Mass was scheduled
for late in the day, but he got up early because he didn’t want to get stuck in traffic, and arrived at the base around 5 a.m.
Sometime during the day of the Mass,
he spoke to the military police that were
assigned to security that day, and found
out what route the pope was going to take
to leave the airfield after the Mass.
The pontiff was going to leave through
the main road that leads out of the base,
and the only people on that road would
be military police every 10 yards on each
side.
“Near the end of the Mass I walked to
that road and waited. Since I had a green
pass, I was allowed to stand there,” said
Scattene.
“And as I waited, soon enough, here
comes Pope John Paul II down the road,
Frank Scattene holds a copy of the Mass booklet from St. Pope John Paul
II’s Papal Mass Nov. 16, 1980 at Mainz-Finthen Army Airfield just outside of
Mainz, Germany (then West Germany). (Photo by John Simitz)
and he looks at me and I wave, and he
waved back – just me and him and no one
else.”
Scattene doesn’t have a picture of that
moment, but describes it as his “special
audience” with the future saint.
“It was a surreal moment that I’ll
never forget – him standing in his special
Mercedes Benz vehicle and me standing
by myself. I then turned and watched his
vehicle leave the base, not believing what
had just happened,” he said.
“The one thing that I remember about
Pope John Paul was the charisma that he
had and the soft and welcoming eyes that
he had. People just gravitated to him, and
he provided them hope. I see a lot of that
with Pope Francis.
“The other thing that we should remember was that he was from Poland
prior to the dismantling of the Iron Curtain and the opening of the Berlin Wall
that occurred later in 1989. I believe Poland was still under Communist rule at
the time and Lech Walesa was becoming
very active during that time to help his
country become free.
“Pope John Paul was a symbol of hope
not only for the Polish people but for everyone in the Russian-controlled Eastern
Europe at the time.”
Scattene recalled the pope flew by
helicopter from downtown Mainz to the
airfield and landed on a helipad not too
far from where Scattene worked. The
helipad was surrounded and secured by
U.S. military and German Polizei (German police).
“The military police said the Swiss
Guards were very protective of the pope
and even pushed them aside to make sure
no one got too close to him,” he said.
Scattene does have a picture he took of
the pope going through the Mass crowd
and of the altar built special for that day.
He saved the personal passes, his vehicle
pass and the Mass booklet for that day as
well.
While home for a visit, Scattene gave
a second Mass booklet to Sister Menulpha at Holy Family, who was an algebra
teacher. As Sister Menulpha was a native
German and the booklet was in German,
she could read and understand everything.
Scattene served in the army 1980-2003
– five and half year’s active duty and the
rest reserves. He was a finance officer for
the first 16 years and a civil affairs officer
for the remaining years. In the reserves he
was part of the NATO peacekeeping force
in Sarajevo June 1998-February 1999.
He is now director of tax and corporate governance for Computer Aid, Inc.
and the father of two children, both of
whom attended Bethlehem Catholic High
School.
Frank Scattene’s green pass for the day of the Mass with St. Pope John Paul
II in 1980 at Mainz-Finthen Army Airfield. The pass gave Scattene access to
anywhere on the base except inside the pope’s own Swiss Guard security
detail. (Photo courtesy Frank Scattene)
21
22
The A.D. Times
Synod
}}Continued from page 1
Cardinal Thomas Collins of Toronto.
The focus of small group work Oct.
10-13 was the section of the working
document titled “The Discernment of the
Family Vocation,” which included a summary of the biblical vision of the family, ways families strengthen their faith
and the role the family plays within the
church.
At least two groups said the church
needed an in-depth treatise on the Christian understanding of marriage and family life. French Group A, led by Canadian
Cardinal Gerald LaCroix of Quebec, said
such a document would be impossible for
the synod to draft in three weeks, so the
synod’s task should be to offer reflections
on “the most salient and urgent aspects”
of Catholic teaching.
Spanish Group A, led by Honduran
Cardinal Oscar Rodriguez Maradiaga,
said sometimes it appears that the Catholic Church has a theology of marriage,
but not of the family and “it also seems
that we limit ourselves to repeating obvious things, but lack key, driving ideas.”
World
English Group A, led by Australian
Cardinal George Pell, said the church
benefited from past synods through the
apostolic exhortations the pope would
write afterward; synod officials have said
it is not known whether Pope Francis will
write one based on this synod. Whatever
comes out of the synod, the group said,
should use “streamlined, attractive language” while having as its primary concern “the clarity of well-grounded explanations of church teaching.”
French Group A asked the 10-member
committee appointed to draft the synod’s
final document to take care not to continually “interrupt” the text with references
to the indissolubility of marriage “as if
that were our only concern.”
On the theme of indissolubility, most
of the groups insisted the text must present the lifelong marriage bond as the
blessing that it is and not as a burden.
The chapter, said French Group C, led
by Bishop Maurice Piat of Port Louis,
Mauritius, should help people listen to
what the church teaches about the family in the light of Scripture. “We believe
that this word meets the deepest longings
of the human heart thirsting for love and
mercy,” and it can bring healing.
English Group B, chaired by British Cardinal Vincent Nichols of West-
Pope’s remarks seen as a road map for U.N.
UNITED NATIONS (CNS) – In the
warm afterglow of Pope Francis’ Sept 25
address to the General Assembly, veteran
United Nations observers drew a starkly
candid road map of urgent actions that the
world body must take to achieve its security agenda.
Speakers at an Oct. 7 side event hosted
by the Holy See’s permanent observer to
the U.N. said the organization’s top pri-
orities must be nuclear disarmament and
the protection of civilians in conflict areas.
Archbishop Bernardito Auza, the Vatican’s ambassador to the U.N., said Pope
Francis described “an urgent need to
work for a world free of nuclear weapons,
in full application of the nonproliferation
treaty, in letter and spirit.”
October 15, 2015
minster, suggested that in presenting the
“divine pedagogy” or the revelation of
God’s plan for the family, the document
“begin with Genesis, which already provides a definition of marriage as a unique
union between a man and a woman, so
total and intimate that because of it a man
must leave his father and mother in order
to be united with his wife. This account
of the creation of marriage presents also
the three basic characteristics of marriage
as it was in the beginning – monogamy,
permanence and equality of the sexes.”
The group said that the church can understand its ministry “as mirroring God’s
patience and mercy” only by understanding God’s original plan for marriage and
family life and how he continually attempted to bring people back to it.
Spanish Group A said it is important
to acknowledge the gradual way “God
communicates the grace of the covenant”
to each person and community through
“correcting, accompanying and forgiving.”
Speaking to reporters later, Cardinal
Nichols said the relationship between
mercy and justice is a theme attracting
special attention.
Using Pope Francis’ document declaring the year of mercy, he said, helps avoid
“the temptation which has been around
all this year ... that somehow there is a
conflict between justice and mercy and
that somehow mercy always as it were
replaces justice.”
It is “a profound misunderstanding”
of mercy to tell people, “It doesn’t matter
what you do, it’s fine,” the cardinal said.
The relationship of mercy and justice
also was the first topic dealt with in the
German Group’s report to the synod assembly. “Mercy and truth, grace and justice are not in opposition because God is
love and his is the mercy with which we
are made just,” the group’s report said.
The German group includes Cardinal
Gerhard Mueller, prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, and
Cardinal Walter Kasper, a theologian
known for his work on mercy and for his
suggestion that the synod find a way to allow some divorced and civilly remarried
Catholics to receive Communion even
without an annulment of their sacramental marriage.
“It’s important to remember who is in
that group,” Cardinal Nichols told reporters, “and I think it’s important for you to
know that every resolution of that group
and this report were accepted unanimously in that group. There was no tension
or division of opinion in that Germanspeaking group.”
Diocese
October 15, 2015
The A.D. Times
23
‘The Other Wes Moore’ tells Alvernia students to fight for someone
By TARA CONNOLLY
Staff writer
“Being higher educated will never
be about your grade point average, how
many degrees you have or the diplomas
on your wall. Higher education is understanding who it is you are supposed to be
fighting for,” said Wes Moore Sept. 29 at
Alvernia University, Reading.
Moore spoke to the freshman class,
faculty and upper classmen about his
book “The Other Wes Moore: One Name,
Two Fates,” which chronicles the story of
two Baltimore men with the same name,
similar backgrounds and polar opposite
journeys.
In December 2000 the Baltimore
Sun ran a small piece about Wes Moore,
a local student who had just received a
Rhodes Scholarship. The same paper also
ran a series of articles about four young
men who killed a police officer while
robbing a jewelry store. One of those
young men was also named Wes Moore.
The coincidence haunted Moore
throughout his stint as a scholar at the
University of Oxford, England, leading
him to write to the convicted Moore in
prison. The inmate wrote back, and a long
series of letters and visits ensued.
Moore discovered that their lives were
remarkably similar. Both grew up fatherless, and despite each having a devoted
mother both got into trouble.
“In the end we made very different
choices,” said Moore.
In addition to the Rhodes scholarship, Moore went on to become a White
House fellow and a veteran of combat in
Afghanistan.
The story began with author Moore
watching his father die when he was 4
and the criminal Moore meeting his father for the first time when he was 6.
Future author Moore’s mother moved
her three children into her parents’ home
in the Bronx. When he was 6 she enrolled
him in an elite prep school. Moore didn’t
Author Wes Moore speaks to students
tos by Tara Connolly)
fit in his impoverished neighborhood or
with his wealthy classmates.
When he was 12 he began skipping
school and was arrested for spraying
graffiti. Moore’s grandparents took out a
loan against their house and Moore was
sent to Valley Forge Military Academy,
Wayne.
“I tried to run away but I kept getting
lost. I was pathetic. The troop leader even
handed me a map. I later found out it was
fake and I kept walking in circles,” he
said.
“I realized that the only way I was going to make it there was if I had friends to
push me and I pushed my friends. We live
in a very integrated society. If you don’t
make it – neither do I,” said Moore.
Moore eventually changed his behavior, finished military school and graduated from Johns Hopkins University, Bal-
I think we’re products of our expectations.’”
“Every child is not born with the same
assets. But I am a firm believer that potential is universal … opportunity is not,”
said Moore.
Moore told the students attending his
lecture that they were seated in front of
him because someone believed in them
and has expectations of them.
“I found myself surrounded by people
who taught me that the world was bigger
than what was in front of me. They taught
me what it meant to be free. That is your
job. You are here to make a difference.
That is the whole point of higher education,” he said.
“There is no one better that I want
to understand this story than you – the
students. How do you make that degree
mean anything? You fight for others. You
fight for those who deserve a chance.”
He also told the students that that each
of them knows a person who is in a very
at Alvernia University, Reading. (Pho- different place at the moment.
“We got people straddling the line of
greatness every day. They are one decision away from going in the right directimore, Md.
tion or a completely different direction,”
The other Wes Moore started sell- said Moore.
ing drugs when he was14. At 16 he faWhether the students choose to fight
thered the first of four
for veterans, animals
kids and at 18 he was
or the environment –
charged with attemptMoore urged them to
“We got people straded murder.
find their passion.
dling the line of greatness
Just as there was
“There are people
no single moment
out there who need
every day. They are one
when author Moore’s
a champion,” said
decision away from going
life turned around,
Moore. “Why can’t it
in the right direction or
there was no defining
be you?”
a completely different
failure that propelled
The presentation
direction.”
the other Moore off
was part of Alvernia’s
course.
first year seminar
The two Moores
classes and projects
discussed how much
relating to poverty
their lives had to do with their circum- and privilege. Each year, incoming freshstances. “I asked him, ‘Do you think that men at Alvernia go though “First-Year
we’re from a wrong environment?’ And Seminar” classes and projects together
Wes looked at me and he said, ‘Actually, and volunteer in the Reading community.
Left, students
listen to the
story about two
men with the
same name.
Right, “The Other Wes Moore”
tells the story of
Wes Moore, a
Rhodes scholar, and another
Wes Moore, a
criminal.
Teaching the impact of poverty
Each year, the freshman class at Alvernia University studies a common reading
focusing on issues of social justice, poverty, diversity or other topic related to the
mission of the university.
Frequently the common reading is
linked to service, as well as an academic
lecture featuring the author of the book.
The common reading for this fall was
“The Other Wes Moore” and projects
were undertaken to expose the students to
a poverty-stricken urban community.
On the Orientation Day of Service
Aug. 21 (pictured) they went out as a
group (led by upperclassmen, faculty
and staff) to perform service at 16 sites
all over the city, including Riverside Elementary School, which was very overgrown and looked abandoned.
The first step was to show them how
easy it can be to make an impact. As the
semester continues, the students will discuss parallels between the cities of Baltimore and Reading – through the eyes
of those born in poverty and those from
privilege.
24
The A.D. Times
Diocese
Calendar
Editor’s note: E-mail, fax or mail church-affiliated items for
the Calendar page (Calendar, Retreats, Socials, Festivals,
Bazaars, Trips) to: e-mail, [email protected];
fax, 610-439-7694; The A.D. Times, P.O. Box F, Allentown, PA
18105-1538.
Items must be received by Thursday of the week before
publication.
Please type or print. Please notify The A.D. Times if
bingos and other regularly listed events are cancelled for
the summer or other holiday periods, and again when they
resume.
The A.D. Times publishes only newly announced, churchaffiliated trips on a regular basis. The entire previously
announced repeating trip list is published only as space
permits. Please notify The A.D. Times when seats are filled
for a trip so it can be removed from the repeating list.
Please do not send items again after they are published.
For more information, call 610-871-5200, ext. 264 or email [email protected].
Sundays
Interpreted Mass, for the hearing impaired, St. Columbkill,
Boyertown, 9 a.m.
Latin Mass, St. Stephen of Hungary, Allentown, 10:15 a.m.
Children’s Prayer Group, for children of any age, Perpetual
Adoration Chapel, St. Patrick, Pottsville, 5 p.m.
Holy Hour for Our Families, Our Priests, and Our Country,
Adoration Chapel, St. Francis of Assisi, Allentown, 7 p.m.
First Sundays
Divine Mercy Liturgical Service, Blessed Teresa of Calcutta,
600 W. Mahanoy Ave., Mahanoy City, 3 p.m., confessions before liturgy, Anointing of the Sick after liturgy and benediction.
First and third Sundays
Interpreted Mass, for the hearing impaired, Our Lady of
Perpetual Help, Bethlehem, 9 a.m.
Second Sundays
Breakfast, St. Elizabeth, Whitehall, 8:30-11:30 a.m., adults
$6, children $3, 610-266-0695, Oct. 12 to April 12.
Youth Mass, students in PREP and Catholic schools asked
to participate as lectors, greeters, ushers, etc., St. Francis of
Assisi, Allentown, 10:30 a.m.
Bereavement Support Group, parish center, St. Joseph the
Worker, Orefield, 3-4:30 p.m., beginning Oct. 11, no membership, sign-in or registration required, 610-392-2957.
Third Sundays
Breakfast, St. Joseph, Summit Hill, 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m., adults
$8, children 7-11 $4, under 7 free, no breakfast July or December.
Catholic Singles of Allentown Reflection and Fellowship,
Finnegan Room, Assumption BVM, Bethlehem, 3-4:30 p.m.,
followed by dinner at restaurant of choice, [email protected], 610797-1970.
Fourth Sundays
Breakfast, Assumption BVM, Northampton, 8:30 a.m.-noon,
adults $7, children $3, 610-262-2559.
Last Sunday
Breakfast, St. Stephen of Hungary, Allentown, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Mondays
Eucharistic Adoration, chapel, St. Catharine of Siena, Reading, after 8 a.m. Mass until 9 p.m., 610-779-4005.
Scripture Classes, directed by Father Dennet Jung, St. Francis Retreat House, Easton, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Monday Afternoon Bible Study, Coll Room, Assumption BVM,
Bethlehem, 1-2:30 p.m., 610-867-7424, ext. 12, join anytime.
Scripture Class with Father Paul Marconi, Barnabite Spiritual
Center, Bethlehem, 1-3 p.m., 610-691-8648.
Monday Evening Bible Study, Finnegan Room, Assumption
BVM, Bethlehem, 6:30-8 p.m., 610-867-7424, ext. 12.
Father Walter Ciszek Prayer Group, Father Ciszek Convent,
18 E. Oak St., Shenandoah, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
GriefShare Workshop and Support Group, St. Catharine of
Siena, 2427 Perkiomen Ave., Reading, 7-8:30 p.m., 610-3701174.
First Mondays
Eucharistic Adoration, Chapel, St. Elizabeth of Hungary,
Whitehall, after 8 a.m. Mass, evening prayer and benediction
5 p.m., second Mondays if falls on federal holiday or holy day,
610-266-0695.
Fourth Mondays
“Kids Konnected,” support group for children with a parent
being treated for cancer, St. Joseph Medical Center, Reading,
7 p.m., registration required 610-378-2602, www.kidskonnected.
org.
Last Mondays
Mass and Veneration of Relic St. Pauline Visintainer, Our
Lady’s Chapel, St. Patrick, Pottsville, 5 p.m.
Tuesdays
Eucharistic Day of Prayer, St. Ignatius of Loyola, Sinking
Spring, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament after 8 a.m. Mass
until 7 p.m. Benediction, 610-678-3767.
Tuesday Morning Bible Study, rectory basement, St. Paul,
Allentown, 9:30-11 a.m., join anytime, 610-797-9733, ext. 14.
Catholic Charities Services, Annunciation BVM, Shenandoah, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., appointments 570-628-0466.
Parenting Support Educational Series, Catholic Charities, Annunciation BVM, Shenandoah, 11 a.m.-noon, free, for parents
and grandparents of infants through toddlers, register 570-6280466.
Holy Hour with Mary for Religious Liberty, National Shrine
of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Immaculate Conception BVM, Al-
Friday, Oct. 16
“Once Upon a Mattress,” Act 1, DeSales University, 8 p.m.,
through Sunday, Oct. 25, 610-282-3192, www.desales.edu/actl.
Saturday, Oct. 17
Golf Tournament, St. Patrick, Pottsville, at Hidden Valley Golf
Course, Pine Grove, registration 8 a.m.; shotgun start 9 a.m.,
golfer $75; students $50, 570-622-1802, 570-249-9588.
“Divine Mercy and the Eucharist,” day of reflection, presenters Dr. Bryan Thatcher and Annie Karto, parish center, St. Joseph the Worker, Orefield, registration 8-9:30 a.m.; Mass 8:30
a.m.; conference 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; $20 by Sunday, Oct. 11;
$25 by Oct. 17 (includes lunch), 610-530-0174, dmcenacle1@
gmail.com, www.stjwchurch.org.
“Including Children with Autism/Other Developmental Disabilities in Church and School,” speakers Deacon Dr. Larry Sutton
and representative from Loyola Press, parish hall, St. Elizabeth
of Hungary, Whitehall, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m., co-sponsored by diocesan Office for Ministry with Persons with Disabilities, diocesan
Office of Religious Education and Loyola Press; 610-289-8900,
ext. 42 or 28. [email protected].
Mass, in commemoration of Cemetery Sunday, Holy Saviour
Cemetery, Bethlehem, 10 a.m., in the event of inclement
weather, call 610-866-2372, ext. 3 for location.
Caregiver Gathering, offered by Catholic Charities, at Parish
Education Center, St. Ignatius Loyola, Sinking Spring, 10 a.m.noon, also Saturday, Nov. 21, register 610-435-1541, ext. 341,
[email protected].
Fall Oldies Dance, 55+ Club, Notre Dame of Bethlehem, 7-11
p.m., advance $15, at door $18, [email protected], 610-8680761.
Mission Sunday Collection, in parishes of the Diocese of Allentown, also Sunday, Oct. 18.
Sunday, Oct. 18
Breakfast, Knights of Columbus, St. Ignatius Loyola, Sinking
Spring, 8 a.m.-noon, adults $7.50, children under 12 $3.50.
Communion Breakfast, Women’s Alliance, speaker Dr. Rodney Howsare, Parish Activity Center, Cathedral of St. Catharine
of Siena, Allentown, after 9 a.m. Mass, $15, 610-435-3677,
[email protected].
Spaghetti Dinner, Men of St. Francis, church hall, St. Francis
of Assisi, Allentown, 5 p.m., adults $9, children 5-12 $4, under
5 free, ticket deadline Monday, Oct. 12, 610-433-6102, 610821-4947, no tickets at door.
Monday, Oct. 19
“Is It Time to Give God a Second Thought?” parish mission,
presenter Father John Collins, St. Anne, Bethlehem, 7 p.m.,
through Wednesday, 610-867-5039.
Wednesday, Oct. 21
Allentown Serra Club, St. Thomas More, 7 p.m., speaker
Jennifer Shankweiler, director of religious education, Cathedral
of St. Catharine of Siena, Allentown.
Lyra, vocal ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia, performing chants of Russian Orthodox Church and folk songs from
Russia, for parish 100th anniversary, St. Stephen of Hungary,
Allentown, 7 p.m., donation at door $10, reservations 610-4390111, [email protected].
Thursday, Oct. 22
“My Italian Secret: The Forgotten Heroes,” premiere of film
about Italians who risked their lives rescuing Jews and other
refugees fleeing Nazis in World War II; Baker Hall, Zoellner
Arts Center, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, 6:30 p.m., free
admission, supported by Lehigh’s Philip and Muriel Berman
Center for Jewish Studies, Jewish Student Life and Catholic
Campus Ministry, [email protected], 610-758-6764; trailer
www.myitaliansecret.com/trailer.
Serra Club of Reading, dinner meeting, Sacred Heart Villa, 6
p.m., speaker Atty. Patrick Barrett on Supreme Court same-sex
marriage decision.
Friday, Oct. 23
Piano Man, Tommy Zito, social hall, St. Nicholas, Walnutport,
7-10 p.m., doors open 6 p.m., tickets $10, snacks included,
BYOB, Halloween theme, costumes optional, prize for best
costume, 610-868-3510.
Saturday, Oct. 24
Flea Market, basement, SS. Cyril and Methodius, Reading, 9
a.m.-2 p.m.
Spaghetti Dinner, parish auditorium, Sacred Heart of Jesus,
Bath, 4:30-7:30 p.m., adults $9; children 6-12 $4; children
under 6 free.
Sunday, Oct. 25
Father Ciszek Day, St. Casimir, Shenandoah, Mass 2 p.m.,
homilist Father Michael Parish, Mass followed by reception.
Tuesday, Oct. 27
Serra Club of Bethlehem, Monocacy Manor, Bethlehem, 6:30
p.m. (no dinner), speaker Steve Hahn, district governor.
Wednesday, Oct. 28
Red Mass, guest homilist Msgr. Andrew Baker, diocesan St.
Thomas More Society, Cathedral of St. Catharine of Siena, Allentown, 7 p.m., confirm attendance 610-282-1100, ext. 1244,
[email protected].
“Justice in Jewish and Christian Perspectives,” mini-course
offered by Institute for Jewish-Christian Understanding,
Seegers Union, Room 111, Muhlenberg College, 7-9 p.m., $60,
www.ijcu.org, 484-664-3470, Wednesdays through Nov. 18.
October 15, 2015
Requiem Solemn Mass for the Holy Souls in Purgatory,
Juventutem Lehigh Valley, Sacred Heart of Jesus, Bath, 6:30
p.m., (Latin Mass), www.juventutemlehighvalley.org, www.
facebook.com/juventutemlehighvalley.
“Encountering Christ in the Sacraments”, Faith and Spirits,
offered by diocesan Office of Adult Formation, speaker Father
Gene Ritz, P.J. Whelihan’s, 1101 Rocky Road, Reading, 6:308:30 p.m., free, ,.
Wednesday, Nov. 4
Mass of Bereavement, St. Francis for Center for Renewal,
Bethlehem, 6 p.m., celebrant Father Dennett Jung, followed by
dinner, offering $12, RSVP by Sunday, Oct. 25, 610-687-8890,
[email protected], www.stfranciscenterforrenewal.
org.
“Confession and Purgatory,” Apologetics Forum: The Catholic Faith Explained, offered by the Office of Adult Education,
St. Michael Parish Center, Queenship of Mary, 829 Main St.,
Northampton, 7 p.m., free,.
Saturday, Nov. 7
“Engaging Parents, Forming Family Faith,” youth ministry
professional development day, Office of Youth and Young Adult
Ministry, 2145 Madison Ave., Bethlehem, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.,
$5, bring a bagged lunch, snacks and drinks will be provided,
610-289-8900, ext. 21, [email protected].
Mass of Remembrance, honoring souls of deceased loved
ones who received care at Holy Family Manor, Grace Mansion
or Trexler Pavilion during the past year, St. Ann Chapel, Holy
Family Manor, Bethlehem, 10:30 a.m., followed by reception,
RSVP by Monday, Nov. 2, 610-997-8409, [email protected].
Baked Ziti Dinner, Immaculate Conception BVM, Allentown,
5-7 p.m., adults $8, children 12 and under $4.
Italian Dinner, SS. Simon and Jude, Bethlehem 4-7 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 8
Top Your Own Pancake Breakfast, parish center, St. Matthew
the Evangelist, Minersville, adults $8, children $4.
“Jesus Christ as Priest, Prophet and King,” DVD adult
religious education series, Finnegan Room, Assumption BVM,
Bethlehem, 8:30-9:50 a.m., 610-867-7424, ext. 12, ldurback@
gmail.com, join any time.
Healing Service, St. Jane Frances de Chantal, Easton, 3
p.m., Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament, Divine Mercy
Chaplet, rosary, private prayer, Sacrament of Anointing of
the Sick, laying on of hands by Janet DeBellis, confessions
throughout the service.
Monday, Nov. 9
“Thou Shalt Not: The Seven Deadly Sins,” Theology on Tap,
for young adults ages 21-35, presenter Father Robert Finlan,
offered by diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry,
Roma Pizza and Restaurant, 116 W. Market St., Pottsville,
6:30-8:30 p.m., [email protected].
Wednesday, Nov. 11
Patriotic Rosary for Veteran’s Day, St. Jane Frances de
Chantal, Easton, after 8:15 a.m. Mass.
Bereavement Group, for those grieving death of a loved one,
convent meeting room, St. Theresa of the Child Jesus, Hellertown, 6:30-8 p.m., free and open to all, Wednesdays through
Dec. 16, 610-838-7045.
“The Sparkle and Style of Today’s Woman,” Women’s Alliance fashion show, Parish Activity Center, Cathedral of St.
Catharine of Siena, Allentown, 7 p.m., small bites and beverages 6:30 p.m., $15, 610-776-1158, stcathsienawa@gmail.
com.
Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York, speaker
for Rev. Thomas J. Furphy Lecture, Billera Hall, DeSales
University, Center Valley, 7:30 p.m., free but tickets required,
610-282-1100, ext. 1364, www.desales.edu.
Sunday, Nov. 15
“An Evening Under the Stars,” Catholic Charities Berks
Festival, wine tasting with tapas, Neag Planetarium, Reading
Public Museum, 500 Museum Road, Reading, 5:30-8 p.m.,
$75, 610-435-1541, ext. 328, [email protected].
Retreats
First Tuesdays
“Simply Prayer,” mornings of prayer, reflection and sharing,
St. Francis Center for Renewal, Bethlehem, 9:30 a.m.-noon,
free will offering, 610-867-8890, [email protected],
www.stfrancisctr.org.
Third Tuesdays – First Session Oct. 20
“Journey of the Heart: Introduction to Contemplative Prayer
Practices,” St. Francis Center for Renewal, Bethlehem, 7-9
p.m., free will offering, 610-867-8890, stfranciscenter@gmail.
com, www.stfrancisctr.org.
First Fridays
“Retreat Day,” St. Francis Retreat House, Easton, 9 a.m.-2
p.m., $25, register by previous Monday, 610-258-3053, ext. 10,
www.stfrancisretreathouse.org.
Thursdays, Oct. 15 and 29
“Mercy-Full Self Care Seminars” (Oct. 15 “The Wheel of
Mercy”; Oct. 29 “Merciful Self-Care”), St. Francis Center for
Renewal, Bethlehem, 8:45 a.m.-noon, $25 per session, 610867-8890, [email protected], www.stfrancisctr.org.
Thursday, Oct. 29
Mini Cakes and Fondant Roses Workshop, St. Francis
Center for Renewal, Bethlehem, 6:30-9:30 p.m., $30, teacher
Louise Kelchner, 610-687-8890, [email protected],
www.stfrancisctr.org.
Saturday, Oct. 24
“Anger and Forgiveness” day of reflection, St. Francis Center
for Renewal, Bethlehem, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m., $45, retreat director
Father Bernard Ezaki, 610-867-8890, stfranciscenter@gmail.
com, www.stfrancisctr.org.
Sunday, Nov. 1
“Come and See – Vocation Evening of Prayer and Enlightenment,” speakers from the priesthood, women’s religious life
and a married couple explaining their personal vocations, St.
Jane Frances de Chantal, Easton, 6-7:30 p.m.
Mondays, Oct. 26, Nov. 16, Dec. 14
“The Family Fully Alive” (Sept. 28 “We are Family…But!”;
Oct. 26 “The Power of Conversation in Family Life”; Nov. 16
“Families Preparing for the Holidays; Dec. 14 “The Joy of Family Celebration”); St. Francis Retreat House, Easton, 6-9 p.m.,
Monday, Nov. 2
Please see CALENDAR page 25 }}
Diocese
October 15, 2015
The A.D. Times
Calendar
Reading, at Slovak Catholic Social Hall, 411 Crestmont St.,
6:30 p.m., doors open 5 p.m. (changed from Mondays).
Italy, $3,575, 610-767-3036.
}}Continued from page 24
First Wednesdays (October-December, April-May)
Bingo, Knights of Columbus Council 12886, St. Ann, Emmaus, 7:30 p.m., doors open 7 p.m., $20, light dinner included.
Sunday, Oct. 18
Travelers, St. Matthew the Evangelist, Minersville to Mohegan Sun Casino, Wilkes-Barre, $25, 570-544-5231, 570-6285413.
$25, 610-258-3053, ext. 10, www.stfrancisretreathouse.org.
Friday, Nov. 6 – Sunday, Nov. 8
Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend, Hilton Garden Inn,
Allentown West, 1-732-904-9636, www.aweekendforyourmarriage.org.
“A Time Apart With Jesus,” offered by Sister Joan Noreen,
co-founder of Our Lady’s Missionaries of the Eucharist, Ave
Maria Retreat House, Doylestown, 610-582-3333, olme@olme.
org.
Thursday, Nov. 12
“Called to be Hope,” St. Francis Center for Renewal, Bethlehem, 6:45-9 p.m., $25, 610-867-8890, stfranciscenter@gmail.
com, www.stfrancisctr.org.
Tuesday, Dec. 8
“In the Spirit of Pope Francis,” St. Francis Center for Renewal, Bethlehem, 6:45-9 p.m., $25, retreat director Bishop
John Barres, 610-867-8890, [email protected], www.
stfrancisctr.org.
Festivals/Bazaars
Saturday, Oct. 17
Oktoberfest, Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of
Mary (IHM), Camilla Hall, Immaculata, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., benefit
Camilla Hall Nursing Home.
Saturday, Oct. 17 – Sunday, Oct. 18
Fall Fair and Tricky Tray, Holy Ghost, Bethlehem, Saturday 9
a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday 9:30 a.m.-noon.
Sunday, Oct. 18
Oktoberfest, St. Joseph, Jim Thorpe, at Memorial Hall, 10th
and Fern streets, Jim Thorpe, noon-7 p.m., free admission and
parking.
Saturday, Oct. 24 – Sunday, Oct. 25
Grand Market and Christmas Bazaar, St. Peter, Reading,
Saturday 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m.-2 p.m., 610-372-9652,
benefit St. Peter and Kennedy House, Reading; Gran Mercado
and Bazaar Navideno, Iglesia San Pedro, Sabado 24 de Oct.
8 a.m.-1 p.m., Domingo 25 de Oct. 9 a.m.-2 p.m., benefician a
Casa Kennedy-San Pedro.
Holiday Bazaar, Altar and Rosary Society, Holy Family, Nazareth, Saturday 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Sunday 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
Thursdays
Bingo, Knights of Columbus Home Association, Reading,
6:30 p.m., doors open 5 p.m., nonsmoking.
Bingo, St. Katharine Drexel, Lansford, 6:30 p.m., doors open
5 p.m.
Fridays
Bingo, St. Jerome, Tamaqua, 6 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 17 – Sunday, Oct. 18
Chinese Auction, St. Ambrose, Schuylkill Haven, Saturday
4-8 p.m., Sunday 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m., auction 2 p.m.
Sunday, Oct. 18
Bingo, Stephen’s Place, Bethlehem, at Marian Inn, Our Lady
of Perpetual Help, Bethlehem, doors open 1 p.m., $20, reservations 610-861-7677, tickets also available at door.
Saturday, Oct. 24 – Sunday, Oct. 25
Chinese Auction, Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, Mahanoy City,
Saturday 5-7 p.m., Sunday doors open noon, auction 2 p.m.
Sunday, Oct. 25
Lego Bingo, St. Michael Ukrainian Catholic Church, 300
West Oak St., Shenandoah, 1:15 p.m., doors open noon, $25,
570-462-0809.
Sundays, Oct. 25; Nov. 8, 15; Dec. 13
Bingo, Knights of Columbus Council 618, Shenandoah at St.
Stephen Hall, 2 p.m., doors open noon, accessible to handicapped.
Saturday, Oct. 31 – Sunday, Nov. 1
Basket Party, Holy Trinity, Whitehall, Saturday 10 a.m.-7
p.m., Sunday 8 a.m.-1 p.m., drawing 2 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 1
Turkey Bingo, St. Matthew the Evangelist, Minersville, at
cafeteria, Good Shepherd Building, 301 Heffner St., 1 p.m.,
doors open noon, admission $3, 570-544-4316, 570-544-5304,
570-544-2211, 570-544-3766.
Sunday, Nov. 8
Gift Card Bingo, Home and School Association, St. Joseph
Regional Academy, Jim Thorpe, at Mahoning Valley Ambulance
Hall, 902 Mill Road, Lehighton, 1 p.m., doors open noon, in
advance $20, at door $25.
Saturday, Nov. 7
Holiday Bazaar, St. Mary, Kutztown, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Holiday Craft Fair and Bake Sale, St. Francis Center for
Renewal, Bethlehem, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., entrance fee item of nonperishable food for food bank, 610-867-8890, stfranciscenter@
gmail.com, www.stfrancisctr.org.
Christmas Bazaar, SS. Simon and Jude, Bethlehem, 8:30
a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Sundays, Nov. 8, Dec. 13
Bingo, parish center, Annunciation BVM (St. Mary’s), Catasauqua, 1 p.m., kitchen opens 11:30 a.m., 610-264-0332.
Saturday, Nov. 7 – Sunday, Nov. 8
Craft Fest, Women’s Guild, St. Joseph the Worker, Orefield,
Saturday 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Christmas Bazaar, St. Benedict, Mohnton, Saturday 8 a.m.6:30 p.m. (Breakfast with Santa 9 a.m.), Sunday 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 15
Coach Bingo, Trinity Academy, Shenandoah, 2 p.m., doors
open noon, $25, 570-462-3927.
Saturday, Nov. 14
Christmas Bazaar, auditorium, St. Francis Academy, Bally, 8
a.m.-2 p.m., live Nativity 9 a.m., Santa Claus arrives 12:30 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 14 – Sunday Nov. 15
AutumnFest, St. Theresa of the Child Jesus, Hellertown, at
Friendship Hall, St. Theresa School, Saturday 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
(visit with Santa 10 a.m.-2 p.m.), Sunday 8 a.m.-2 p.m. (visit
with Santa 10 a.m.-2 p.m.).
Saturday, Nov. 21 – Sunday, Nov. 22
Holiday Craft/Vendor/Bake Sale, Auxiliary, Holy Family
Manor, Bethlehem, 10 a.m-3 p.m.
Socials
Sundays
Bingo, St. Joseph, Summit Hill, 6:30 p.m.
Bingo, Immaculate Conception School, Pen Argyl, 1 p.m.,
doors open 11 a.m., 610-863-4816.
Friday, Nov. 13
Auction/Raffle, Bethlehem Catholic High School, donation
$50 per ticket, three tickets $100, 610-866-0791, ext. 322,
[email protected].
Trips
Editor’s note: Trip listings include sponsoring group,
destination, cost and contact information. Call the sponsor
for other details, such as times, dining location, itineraries
and what is included in the cost. Send church-affiliated
trips to [email protected] by Thursday of the
week before publication.
Newly announced
Tuesday, Oct. 20
Outreach Committee, St. Francis of Assisi, Allentown to
Mohegan Sun Casino, Wilkes-Barre, $22, 610-799-2484, 610515-5975.
Thursday, Dec. 3
St. Matthew the Evangelist, Minersville to Christmas show,
Radio City Music Hall, New York, N.Y., $102, 570-544-5231,
570-628-5413.
Previously announced
Second Sundays
Bingo, Most Blessed Sacrament, Bally, 12:30 p.m., doors
open 11 a.m.
Saturday, Oct. 17
Women’s Guild, St. Joseph the Worker, Orefield to “Little Italy
in the Bronx,” guided nosh walk, $72, 610-392-2957.
Wednesdays
Bingo, Slovak Catholic Sokol, SS. Cyril and Methodius,
Saturday, Oct. 17 – Monday, Oct. 26
Assumption Travel Club, Slatington to Tuscany and Liguria,
Wednesday, Oct. 21
Golden Agers, St. Elizabeth of Hungary, Whitehall to Hollywood Casino, Grantville, $25, 610-264-3721.
Saturday, Oct. 24
St. Thomas More, Allentown to Little Italy, Bronx, N.Y., guided
walking and eating tour, $68, 610-674-4374, 484-951-0440,
www.stmchurchallentown.org.
Saturday, Nov. 7
St. Thomas More, Allentown to Neue Gallery $20, Metropolitan Museum of Art $20, or shopping, bus $32, 610-674-4374,
484-951-0440, www.stmchurchallentown.org.
Monday, Nov. 9
Fifty Plus Club, St. Catharine of Siena, Reading to “Barbra
and Frank Concert,” Mount Airy Casino, Mount Pocono, $80,
610-779-5409.
Tuesday, Nov. 10
55+ Club, St. Anne, Bethlehem to “A Tribute to Our Veterans,
Villa Roma Resort, Callicoon, N.Y., $88, 610-807-9906.
Thursday, Nov. 12
Trips and Tours, St. Jane Frances de Chantal, Easton to
“Vatican Splendors,” Franklin Institute, Philadelphia, $100, 610252-4233.
Thursday, Nov. 12 – Wednesday, Nov. 25
Assumption Travel Club, Slatington to Queen Mary 2 Caribbean Cruise, $2,299, 610-767-3036.
Wednesday, Dec. 2
Prime Timers, St. Ann, Emmaus to “Miracle of Christmas,”
Sight and Sound Theatre, Lancaster, $90, 484-554-1864.
Golden Agers, Holy Family, Nazareth to Christmas show,
Sight and Sound Theatre, Lancaster, $92, 610-759-0576.
Prime Time, St. Joseph, Coopersburg to Christmas show,
Radio City Music Hall, New York, N.Y., $148, 215-529-4570.
Saturday, Dec. 5
St. Thomas More, Allentown to “School of Rock” $129 or “Allegiance” on Broadway, New York, N.Y., $130, 610-674-4374,
484-951-0440, www.stmchurchallentown.org.
Tuesday, Dec. 8
Women’s Guild, St. Joseph the Worker, Orefield to “The
Platters – Home for the Holidays,” Mount Airy Casino Resort,
Mount Pocono, $68, 610-392-2957.
Wednesday, Dec. 9
St. Elizabeth of Hungary, Whitehall to “Christmas Show,”
American Music Theatre, Lancaster, $88, 610-266-2874.
Thursday, Dec. 10
55+ Club, Notre Dame of Bethlehem to “Winter Wonderland
Christmas Show,” American Music Theatre, Lancaster, $85,
610-866-0360.
Tuesday, Dec. 15
Golden Agers, Holy Family Nazareth to Christmas show,
Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, Clinton, N.J., $88, 610-759-0576.
Saturday, Dec. 19
St. Thomas More, Allentown to “The Nutcracker,” Philadelphia, $130, 610-674-4374, 484-951-0440, www.stmchurchallentown.org.
2016
Saturday, Jan. 23
St. Thomas More, Allentown to “All Balanchine,” New York
City Ballet $79, or “On Your Feet,” on Broadway $134, bus $32,
610-674-4374, 484-951-0440, www.stmchurchallentown.org.
Thursday, March 10
St. Thomas More, Allentown to Philadelphia Flower Show,
$55, 610-674-4374, 484-951-0440, www.stmchurchallentown.
org.
Tuesday, March 29 – Thursday, April 7
Most Blessed Sacrament, Bally, with Pastor Father Edward
Coyle as spiritual director, to “Majestic Italy, Inspired by Her
Saints,” $3,195, 610-845-2460.
Saturday, April 9
St. Thomas More, Allentown to Brooklyn food tour and walk
across Brooklyn Bridge, New York, N.Y., $68, 610-674-4374,
484-951-0440, www.stmchurchallentown.org.
Sunday Scripture
Sunday, Oct. 18 First reading
Responsorial psalm
Second reading
Gospel
29th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Isaiah 53:10-11
Psalms 33:4-5, 18-20, 22
Hebrews 4:14-16
Mark 10:35-34
Sunday, Oct. 25
First reading
Responsorial psalm
Second reading
Gospel
30th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Jeremiah 31:7-9
Psalms 126:1-6
Hebrews 5:1-6
Mark 10:46-52
25
26
The A.D. Times
Diocese
October 15, 2015
Bishop visits St. Theresa School, Hellertown
Above, Bishop Barres
visits with St. Theresa
School staff and faculty Sept. 8.
Above, Bishop of Allentown John
Barres, leads teachers in Morning
Prayer at St. Theresa School, Hellertown. (Photos by John Simitz)
Right, Lia Finkbeiner, St. Theresa
student, greets Bishop Barres in the
playground on her way to school.
Left, Bishop Barres
welcomes, from left,
Jackson, Melissa and
Madison Gaspar to
the start of the new
school year at St.
Theresa School.
Below, St. Theresa students receive
a morning welcome from Bishop
Barres.
Above, Bishop Barres discusses the World
Meeting of Families with St. Theresa students and asks them to participate in the
historic event by being Good Samaritans
and missionary disciples toward their families and the entire human family.
Left Bishop Barres introduces himself to a
St. Theresa student.
Diocese
October 15, 2015
The A.D. Times
27
Bishop visits St. John Neumann School in Palmerton and Slatington
Left, Caitlene Santos and Timothy
Hillanbrand, eighth
grade
students,
welcome
Bishop
of Allentown John
Barres to the fourth,
fifth, sixth, seventh
and eighth grade
building at St. John
Neumann Regional
School, Palmerton.
(Photos by John
Simitz)
Right, Sister Stephanie Bator, left,
principal of St. John
Neumann Regional
School, discusses
some of the goals
of the new school
year with, from left,
Caitlene
Santos,
Bishop Barres and
Timothy Hillanbrand.
Rght, Bishop Barres
holds a welcome
sign created by first
grade students from
St. John Neumann
Regional School in
Slatington.
Left, Kaitlyn Kratzer,
left, and Samantha
Steir, sixth grade
students, ask Bishop Barres questions
during his visit to St.
John Neumann Regional School.
Bishop Barres meets
fifth grade students at St.
John Neumann Regional
School.
Nina Mendes spends some time with Bishop
Barres on her birthday Sept. 10 at St. John Neumann Regional School.
Bishop Barres enjoys lunch with St. John Neumann students. During his pastoral visit he called on the students to follow Pope Francis’ request to be Good
Samaritans and missionary disciples in light of the World Meeting of Families.
Bishop Barres jokes with the kindergarten class during a pastoral visit
at St. John Neumann Regional School.
Ada Finsel, fourth grade student, enjoys listening to Bishop
Barres at St. John Neumann
Regional School.
28
The A.D. Times
Diocese
Jesús te llama
Por Diácono José M. Santos
Con del pecado original, entró al
mundo; el mal, la destrucción, la ruina,
la tristeza, el engaño, la desverguenza, el
odio, la envidia, la muerte…. Con todo
esto parece que ya no hay esperanza de
sobrevivir en la tierra, que Dios nos ha
entregado a los seres humanos, para que
disfrutaramos de toda la creación.
Cuando Dios creó al hombre y la mujer, los puso en medio del jardín del Edén,
y les dijo: pueden comer de todos los frutos de los árboles del jardín, menos uno,
del árbol del bien y del mal. Todos menos
uno. Para engañar, el diablo les dice algo
parecido. ¿Cómo, que Dios les ha dicho
que no pueden comer de ninguno de los
frutos del jardín? (Gn 2:16-17.3,1). No
es lo mismo, de todos menos uno, que de
ninguno.
A pesar de todo el mal que existe, fruto de los engaños del enemigo de Dios,
que ha engañado al hombre y a la mujer,
imagen de Dios los creó. El Señor que
es todo amor y misericordia, prepara un
plan, para salvarlo, y recatar lo el hombre
perdió, por desobediencia al mandato de
Dios. Desobedecer a Dios, siempre va a
traer consecuencias negativas.
No tener en cuenta los mandamientos
de la ley, que el Señor entregó a Moisés
en el Monte Sinaí, es ya una muestra de
alguién que va a la autodestrucción, o de
Mass Oct. 17 for
Cemetery Sunday
Mass in commemoration of Cemetery
Sunday will be celebrated Saturday, Oct.
17 at 10 a.m. on the grounds of Holy Saviour Cemetery, Bethlehem.
Relatives of the deceased are invited
October 15, 2015
un pueblo que ha dejado a un lado la felicidad verdadera. Pero el hombre, por la
ignnorancia deja de recibir los benficios
que estos contienen y prometen a quien
los guarda.
Al inicio de la historia de la salvación,
Dios comunica su plan de salvación por
medio de ángeles y va guiando a los patriarcas con la figura de una tierra prometida para que puedan llegar a Dios de
donde todos hemos venido. Los ángeles
ejercen en nombre del Dios de Israel, el
Poder Divino, librando a los creyentes
del poder del enemigo. Para ser liberado
del poder de nuestros enemigos del alma,
es necesario tener fe en el Dios del Cielo.
La realidad del hombre en la tierra, es
que no podemos progresar en toda la integridad, si no tenemos fe. La fe es creer
en el Dios Creador de cielo y tierra, y de
todo cuanto existe. Todos queremos conocer más de lo que existe en este mundo,
pero no podemos avanzar sin un guía que
nos enseñe lo que es bueno, y lo que es
malo, para caminar seguros y reducir los
errores y fracasos que podemos encontrar a lo largo del camino.
Luego Dios hace surgir, de en medio
del pueblo a los profetas. Estos obedecen
a Dios, quien los envía a anunciar su Palabra a su pueblo creyente para que no se
pierda, y pueda seguir en el camino de la
salvación.
Dios quiere que todos los hombres
y mujeres se salven, y está haciendo esfuerzo, cada día, envía a sus profetas, en
todas las generaciones para rescatar a los
hombres del mal que atraemos sobre nosotros, con cada pecado que cometemos.
Unos hacen caso a los profetas y se
van congregando en la Iglesia, otros acomodan la lectura de la biblia a su manera
entran en desobediencia contra la unidad
tan deseada por Jesús y expresada en el
capítulo 17 del evangelio de San Juan,
una gran cantidad no ha conocido la verdad, porque desconocen el plan de salvación que el Señor ha preparado para los
que ama.
Un famoso dicho: “Cuando las hormigas se quieren perder, alas le quieren
nacer.” En alguna etapa de nuestra vida,
hemos aceptado el engaño de la corriente
del mundo, y hemos experimentado de
alguna manera el fracaso; por no haber
hecho caso a los sabios, y queriendo ponernos en el lugar de Dios, pasamos por
lamentos, desilución, maltrato.
En esta etapa final Dios nos ha hablado por medio de su Hijo Jesucristo, a
quien nombró heredero de todo, y por
quien creó el universo (Hebreos 1:2). En
Jesús se concretiza la Salvación, no hay
otro nombre através del cual podamos ser
salvados. Sólo el nombre de Jesús Salva,
su nombre significa la misión con la que
vino a la tierra, enviado por su Padre.
Jesús = Dios salva.
“Para que quien crea en él tenga vida
eterna. Tanto amó Dios al mundo, que
entregó a su Hijo único, para que quien
crea en él no muera, sino que tenga vida
eterna. Dios no envió a su Hijo al mundo
para juzgar al mundo, sino para que el
mundo se salve por él” (Jn 3:15-17)
Sólo, encuentra esa salvación, el que
se deja encontrar por Jesús, el anda buscándote, déjate encontrar por él. Quien se
deja encontrar por Jesús, no pierde nada,
al contrario gana, lo que busca, lo que
necesita, lo que es verdadero, lo que es
digno de encontrar para la vida presente
y la futura.
Jesús dijo: busquen y encontrarán.
Tambien dijo: toquen y se les habrirá.
¿Sabías que? “Si uno escucha mi llamada y abre la puerta, entraré en su casa y
cenaré con él y él conmigo” (Ap 3:20).
Que alegría. Jesús te llama, sí, a tí
querido amigo lector, es a tí y sólo a tí,
Jesús te llama, porque te ama. Ahora
mismo Jesús está tocando la puerta de
tu corazón. No pierdas ésta oportunidad
de recibir la salvación gratuita, del único
que te la puede dar, no hay otro, sólo él es
Verdadero Salvador.
Si tú supieras, lo que esto significa,
tú, saldría en busca de El. Mira, escucha,
actúa ya, corre tras él…. Alabado Sea
Jesucristo porque me ha salvado, te doy
gracias mi Señor, a ti la gloria por siempre. Amén.
to attend and pray for those who have
gone before us marked with the sign of
faith.
In the event of rain, please call 610866-2371, ext. 3 for rain location.
Holy Saviour Cemetery is one
of two diocesan cemeteries. The other is
Resurrection Cemetery, Allentown.
In 1978 the National Catholic Ceme-
tery Conference proposed that Cemetery
Sunday be observed on the first Sunday
in November.
Cemetery Sunday tells “what God
expects us to do.” God expects us to remember and respect those who have gone
before us. As Catholics we believe in the
“communion of saints.” We believe there
is and always will be a connection be-
tween us and those who have died, and
that God expects us to share one body; to
contribute to the good of all, and to share
in the welfare of all.
Cemetery Sunday is a day set aside
to pray for the deceased, and to visit the
graves of loved ones and friends in a
show of respect to those who have gone
before us.
October 15, 2015
Diocese
The A.D. Times
29
Alumni profile
Nativity BVM grad ‘expresses God’ on and off the court
George Halcovage today
as the video coordinator
for the men’s basketball
team at Villanova University, left, and as a student
in the 2004 Nativity BVM
High School yearbook.
By TARA CONNOLLY
Staff writer
George Halcovage, a 2004 graduate of Nativity BVM
High School, Pottsville, credits his Catholic education
for jumpstarting his professional career as a video coordinator at Villanova University and for making it to
the 2015 “Big Dance” as part of the men’s basketball
team’s staff.
Halcovage, who oversees all video aspects of the
program, scouting and game tape breakdown, began his
Catholic education at All Saints Catholic School, Pottsville. He completed his secondary education at Nativity,
where he played baseball, basketball, football and soccer.
“My Catholic education prepared me to have the discipline to make tough decisions when it came to deciding between what was the right thing to do and the wrong
thing to do in college from a personal standpoint,” said
Halcovage.
“From an academic standpoint I felt my education
from Nativity set me up very well to take on all of the
rigors of a challenging academic curriculum at Babson,”
he said.
Halcovage earned a degree from Babson College,
Wellesley, Mass. before obtaining a master’s degree in
business administration from Villanova University, and
ultimately began his professional career at the Catholic
university.
“Being here has been wonderful as it has only built
upon the foundation I received from my Catholic education growing up. In terms of coaching basketball at Villanova I lean on Catholic principles, especially when it
comes to dealing with our players on a day to day basis,”
he said.
Throughout his academic career, he said, he was
highly challenged, and teachers demanded and expected
his best effort every step of the way.
“Most important though, if I did have a question or
wasn’t clear on a specific topic, I always felt comfortable and had a relationship to go ask my teachers for
help, which was key to my development as a student,”
said Halcovage.
“Catholic school also instilled the value of being
able to be proud of your faith and express it amongst
your peers. Being able to pray together at a young age
with your classmates instills great values that teach the
importance of community and creates a loving environment,” he said.
According to Halcovage, the goal of the team’s staff
is to build each player into the best player, student and
man he can be by the time they graduate college.
“I always remember the spiritual component of life
that was instilled in me from growing up Catholic and
going to Catholic school. I am able to intertwine spirituality into my message when trying to help them progress
in their lives,” he said.
“The most beneficial aspect of my Catholic education
is that it taught me that it was OK to express my love for
God in everything I do.”
Some of his most memorable moments during his
Catholic education were graduation from Nativity and
reaching the Final Four of the 2015 NCAA men’s basketball tournament.
The 20-day tournament is often known as the “Big
Dance,” and at the end of the tournament lies the greatest dance of all – the Final Four.
“My graduation from Nativity was a great moment.
It was the end of a journey that I experienced with so
many amazing friends – many of whom are still my best
friends today,” said Halcovage.
“If you are looking for your child to gain an understanding of the spiritual side of life to help reinforce and
instill their beliefs and to be proud of them – send them
to Catholic school.”
30
The A.D. Times
Diocese
October 15, 2015
Seminarians
}}Continued from page 17
words during group interaction and when
they presented him with a $10,000 check
raised by priests and seminarians for the
poor in Rome.
“He spoke to us through his translator, something akin to, ‘Remember, penance and mortification have not gone out
of style – in fact, it’s quite fashionable.’
To me, these were his most memorable
words,” he said.
Deacon Stephan Isaac, a transitional
deacon, served as Deacon of the Mass
during the Sept. 26 Opening Mass at the
Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia. He said participating in World
Meeting of Families and seeing the Holy
Father in person was surreal.
“It was an awesome, unforgettable experience that I will cherish forever. We
seminarians just went nuts cheering when
we would see him as if he was some rock
star celebrity,” he said.
“It’s truly amazing to see thousands
upon thousands of people, believers and
nonbelievers alike, come out to greet and
see this humble, loving 78-year-old man
Seminarians applaud the arrival of Pope Francis as he is greeted by Archbishop of Philadelphia Charles Chaput. (Photo by Ed Koskey)
– it’s truly the grace of the papacy.”
Since Pope Francis did not directly address the seminarians, they were part of
the audience during his address to bishops from around the world in St. Martin
Chapel.
“I think the Holy Father’s message
overall was to love all people with the
heart of Jesus, and to cherish, protect and
strengthen the family, which he said is
the greatest creation
of God,” said Deacon
“I think
Isaac.
the Holy
But the Holy FaFather’s
ther’s most memorable words that resmessage
onated with Deacon
overall
Isaac were spoken
was to love
completely off-theall people
cuff Sept. 26 during
with the
the Festival of Families.
heart of
“He spoke withJesus, and
out a prepared text
to cherfor about 20 minutes
ish, proon the nature, purtect and
pose and beauty of
the family. It was just
strengthen
a beautiful little catthe family,
echesis on the famwhich he
ily. While the Holy
said is the
Father
delivered
greatest
this
extemporaneous address, he was
creation of
extremely animated
God.”
and energized – more
so than at any other
point in his visit to the United States,” he
said.
Deacon David Anthony, also a transiPlease see SEMINARIANS page 31 }}
Left, Pope Francis joins Archbishop
Chaput, left, and Bishop Senior, right,
for a photo with seminarians at St.
Charles Borromeo Seminary. (Photo
by Ed Koskey)
Below, Deacon Isaac serves as Deacon of the Word during the televised
WMOF Opening Mass at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
Deacon Anthony, right, assists Archbishop Chaput during the televised WMOF
Opening Mass.
Left, Bishop John Barres, right, meets up with John Hutta, diocesan seminarian, at the World Meeting of Families (WMOF) at the Pennsylvania Convention
Center.
Above, Zachary Wehr, left, diocesan seminarian, and Bishop Barres meet
Sept. 24 at WMOF.
Diocese
October 15, 2015
Seminarians
}}Continued from page 30
tional deacon, was called up to assist at
the televised Opening Mass an hour before the celebration commenced.
“I was caught by surprise when I was
told they needed another deacon,” said
Deacon Anthony, who served as a deacon
chaplain.
He said he didn’t hesitate to answer
“yes” and said assisting at the Mass with
thousands of faithful was a prolific experience.
The A.D. Times
31
“It was an incredible view to see so
many people gathered to praise God for
their families,” he said.
Other seminarians who participated
in WMOF events and were present for
the papal visit at the seminary were Alexander Brown, Giuseppe Esposito.
John Hutta, Alexander Krumm, Jeremy
Leidich, John Maria, Miguel Ramirez,
John Rother, Matthew Thompson and
Zachary Wehr.
Jeremy Leidich, right, diocesan seminarian, at WMOF Sept. 24 with Bishop Barres.
Alvernia group at WMOF
Students, faculty, staff, alumni and parents of Alvernia University, Reading,
gather before boarding a charted 50-seat bus to the Papal Mass with Pope
Francis Sept. 27 in Philadelphia. The group joined with students from Neumann University, Aston, and the University of St. Francis, Fort Wayne, Ind.,
for fellowship and to celebrate their Franciscan connection. (Photo courtesy
Alvernia University)
32
The A.D. Times
Diocese
October 15, 2015
Marian apparitions, miracles discussed at ‘Faith and Spirits’ in Schuylkill County
By TAMI QUIGLEY
Staff writer
“We don’t have to believe in any particular apparition, but we do need to believe in Mary – that’s part of our faith,”
Father Adam Sedar told the 60 adults
gathered in Schuylkill County Oct. 5 as
he offered “Marian Apparitions and Miracles” as part of the “Faith and Spirits”
series.
The event – held during the Month of
the Holy Rosary – took place at Vito’s
Coal Fired Pizza and
Restaurant, St. Clair.
Father Sedar is pas“Why do
tor of St. Michael the
we have
Archangel, Minersville.
He explained there
private
are private and public
revelaapparitions, or revelations?
tions. Father Sedar said
Because
we can’t replace ScripGod’s alture with private revelations, which are judged
ways at
by their conformity to
work.”
Scripture.
“Why do we have
private
revelations?
Because God’s always at work,” Father
Sedar said.
He said even when private revelations
are declared authentic, they could still be
in error due to such reasons as the person who experienced it is confused about
what he or she saw, or have added their
personal subjectivity to their account.
“There’s no mandate you have to believe in them. You’re free to believe or
not believe,” Father Sedar said.
Approval of an apparition may be
made by a local bishop or by the pope,
though the approval is not included as an
infallible statement by the pontiff.
“There are many ways and degrees of
approval of a revelation,” Father Sedar
said, adding if it is granted by the pope, it
is usually done via a papal visit.
The paranormal – such as the sun
dancing at Fatima – is usually not necessary for an apparition to be approved, he
said. “It simply has to be credible – theologically credible – and the person has to
be credible. Do they show obedience to
the church in their own lives?”
Discussing private revelations such as
Marian apparitions, Father Sedar recounted the stories of Our Lady of Guadalupe
(1531), Our Lady of Lourdes (1858) and
Above, Father
Adam Sedar answers a question posed by
Chris Schwartz.
Right, “Mary is
the
intercessor. You pray to
Mary to ask her
to pray for us
to God,” Father
Adam
Sedar
tells those gathered.
Above,
Father
Adam Sedar presents “Marian Apparitions and Miracles” to the 60
adults
gathered
Oct. 5 for the “Faith
and Spirits” session
at Vito’s Coal Fired
Pizza and Restaurant, St. Clair. (Photos by John Simitz)
Left, Rick Dooley,
assistant coordinator of the diocesan
Office of Adult Formation, introduces
Father Adam Sedar.
Our Lady of Fatima (1917).
Father Sedar discussed Our Lady of
Guadalupe – her appearing to Juan Diego
as well as talking about the tilma – and
said, “It’s a miraculous image in every
way.”
This apparition “led to a great conversion of hundreds of thousands of people
in a very short amount of time,’ he said.
Our Lady of Lourdes told Bernadette
Soubirous, “I am the Immaculate Conception.” The young peasant girl knew
this was the Blessed Mother.
“The message of Lourdes is we need
more prayer,” Father Sedar said.
Focusing on Our Lady of Fatima – also
known as Our Lady of the Rosary – Father Sedar said though more than 70,000
people witnessed “The Miracle of the
Sun,” the Blessed Mother appeared only
Above right, during a break in
the session, Father Adam Sedar
speaks with, from
left, Will Pelko,
Dora Santarelli,
Chris Schwartz
and Bill Jones.
Right, adults of
all ages listen
to Father Adam
Sedar’s evening
presentation.
to the three children: Lucia, Jacinta and
Francisco. They saw Mary, St. Joseph
and the infant Jesus in the sky, blessing
the world three times.
The first secret was a vision of hell and
Mary’s emphasis on praying for conversion.
The second secret said a great war
would follow the one that would soon
end if people did not repent, and a great
sign in the night sky would precede the
war. On Jan. 25, 1938 an aurora borealis
appeared in all the northern hemisphere;
a month later Hitler seized Austria and
eight months later invaded Czechoslovakia.
The third secret was about the continued persecution of the church, with an
image of bishops and religious – perhaps
too the pope – being struck down. “St.
Pope John Paul II attributed surviving
his assassination attempt to Our Lady of
Fatima,” Father Sedar said.
“The core of Fatima’s message is pray
and do penance for the conversion of the
world,” Father Sedar said, adding Russia
was consecrated to the Immaculate Heart
of Mary. “We attribute that in large measure to prayer.”
“We need to continue to pray for ourselves and the world,” Father Sedar said.
“Mary is the intercessor. You pray to
Mary to ask her to pray for us to God.”
The diocesan Office of Adult Formation organized the informal discussion
presented 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. There was
no charge for attending. Food and beverages were available for purchase from the
menu.
All adults are welcome to Faith and
Spirits events, and are encouraged to
come alone or bring a friend.
For more information on Faith and
Spirits: 610-289-8900, ext. 221; [email protected]; www.
allentowndiocese.org/aff.
Religious Education and Adult Formation
•
Adult Formation offers enrichment opportunities through the
Institute for Catechesis and Formation.
•
The Institute for Catechesis and Formation offers workshops
in specific areas of ministry, e.g., liturgical and Master Catechist Certificate.
•
Provides regional faith-based events with opportunity for discussion.
•
Serves as a resource to parishes seeking to help adults deepen their understanding of the Catholic Faith.