Church Uses Old and New for Rising again - Diocese of Antigonish

Nova Scotia’s and Prince Edward Island’s Guide to Catholic LivingMay 29, 2010 VOL. VIII, NO.16$1.25+HSTBeddu and Aster Teclemarian present Archbishop Anthony Mancini, the Archbishop of Halifax, with the gifts during the offertory at the dedication Mass for St. Benedict Church.Church Uses Old and New for Rising againBy Nicole MyshakFew present at the May 16 dedication ofSt. Benedict Church in Halifax could claim tohave been to such a celebration before.A joyous and rare occasion, the liturgydedicating the recently constructed buildingdrew throngs of people who filled the churchto capacity. The excitement was palpableas the three former church communities ofSt. Lawrence, St. Pius X and Our Lady ofPerpetual Help were finally able to cometogether as a worshipping community undera single roof.This newfound opportunity for physicalcommunion with her fellow parishionersimpressed Laura Harland, a former memberof St. Pius X. “It was sad when my churchclosed,” she acknowledged. “But this takesaway the sadness for sure.”Erin McMillin agrees.The member of the choir for the dedicationMass was moved by the sense of unityamongst the St. Benedict community andexperienced “pride in what the parisheshave been able to come together and createas one.”“I thought it was wonderful,” she said.“Just the emotion of it all”Having attended St. Lawrence for twoyears, McMillin shared that, although it wasunfortunate she was unable to attend the finalMass at the church on May 18 she was atpeace because her parish was “moving on tobigger and better things.”Death and New LifeIn his remarks at the conclusion of thededication Mass Father Bernard O’Neill,the pastor of St. Benedict Church, spoketo this same reality when he quotedArchbishop Fulton Sheen as saying “every500 years the Church has to die and bereborn.”For our parish it’s been a time of letting go,letting be and letting God, proposed FatherO’Neill. “We in our parish have been dyingand rising.”Archbishop Anthony Mancini, theArchbishop of Halifax, also referred to thissame phenomenon during his homily. Hedid so by referencing the day’s feast, theAscension, which “consists of an end and abeginning.”He noted that the Ascension brought to anend Jesus’ earthly ministry. It also enabledHis followers to be open and receptiveto God’s next phase for humanity, the“outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the timeof the Church.”This, said Archbishop Mancini, “helps usto understand” and shed further light uponthe opening and dedication of St. BenedictChurch, for it too is an end of an experience inthe Church and the beginning of a new one.In describing the experience of thisnew church the Archbishop referred to theimpressions that others shared with him.(Please turn to Page 6)

The Atlantic Catholic — May 29, 2010Diocesan NewsPage 3Diocese To Place 400 Properties for Saleby Connor MacEachernThe Diocese of Antigonish hasraised about one-third of the moneynecessary to cover legal settlementand sexual abuse lawsuit costs.Diocesan spokesperson FatherPaul Abbass broke the news toparishioners in Port Hawkesbury,Antigonish and Sydney May 17to 19.“We have commitments of closeto $6 million,” he said. “That prettymuch taps out what we can expectfrom that particular exercise of thepooling of liquid assets.”Parishes in the Diocese wereasked to contribute all but essentialmoney to the legal settlementfund, which meant larger parishesdonated much more than others,Father Abbass said.“It’s hard to say that there’sany fair practice going on here,”he said.“It’s equal to every parish in thesense that every parish is asked foreverything.”The remaining $12.5 millionmust come from the sale of all“non-core assets,” which include allproperty except occupied churchesand glebe houses, Father Abbasssaid.Father Abbass said he didn’tknow the market value of theproperties. A financial study byErnst and Young said the Diocesewould be able to meet the fiscalresponsibilities if all propertiesVisitors, vendors, volunteers andpowwow performers can now logon to www.Membertou400.com formore information on the June 24 to27 celebrations marking the 400thanniversary of the baptism of GrandChief Henri Membertou.The Membertou 400 site explainshow to apply to be a vendor orregister as a volunteer and listspowwow prize packages and specialhotel rates for the thousands ofpeople expected to attend AtlanticCanada’s largest gathering of FirstNation people.The Grand Chief Membertou 400celebrations begin June 24 at PortFr. Paul Abbass and Diocese of Antigonish legal and financial settlementcommittee member Jim Gogan, led a meeting at St. Ninian Place inAntigonish May 18 to discuss how the diocese will proceed to raise the$18.5 million necessary for legal settlement and sexual abuse lawsuits.(Connor MacEachern photo)were sold, he added.At the meeting in AntigonishMay 18, parishioners were told thetwo-storey Bishop’s residence willbe considered a core asset.“It would just seem to me that’s acore asset because it’s a residence,”Father Abbass said.Father Abbass said he understandswhy some parishioners would wantto see the house up for sale.Website Promotes Membertou 400Royal National Historic Site withan open-air Mass and re-enactmentof the historic baptism. The eventmoves to the Halifax Common June25 to 27, for one of the country’slargest powwows, or mawio’mi inthe mi’kmaw language.Membertou 400 will feature anauthentic Mi’kmaw village wherevisitors can interact with aboriginalartists and artisans, learn abouttraditional healing methods, samplenative cuisine and hear Mi’kmaqelders share their oral history.Admission is free.Other highlights includeaboriginal dance and drum“The thinking behind it iseveryone is sacrificing.”Many meetings “with a whole lotof stakeholders” would have to takeplace before such a recommendationcould be made, he added.T h e C a t h o l i c E p i s c o p a lCorporation of Antigonish – thecorporate arm of the Diocese – hascontributed about $2 million tovarious legal fees. The $2 millioncompetitions featuring First Nationperformers from across Canada andthe United States, and a free concertby Canadian icon and AcademyAward winner Buffy Sainte MarieThe Membertou 400 site is also agreat resource to learn about GrandChief Membertou and Mi’kmaqhistory and culture.Grand Chief Membertou was aMi’kmaq shaman and prophet. OnJune 24, 1610, he became the firstaboriginal person in what wouldbecome Canada to be baptized,signalling the Mi’kmaw people’sdesire for peaceful relations withEuropean nations.“It’s equal to every parish in the sense thatevery parish is asked for everything.”— Father Paul Abbass,Diocese of Antigonish spokesmanis not included in the $6 milliontotal, legal and financial settlementcommittee member Jim Gogan saidin an email.“There have been expensesfor this all the way along,” FatherAbbass added.T h e C a t h o l i c E p i s c o p a lCorporation is also the majorityshareholder of The Casket Printingand Publishing Company. FatherAbbass said a decision has notyet been made whether to sell theshares.“I know that other members ofthe committee have said that it is anasset that we can certainly use, butit’s being looked at from a varietyof different perspectives.”The shares are not protectedfrom being sold, he added.Consultant Jeanie McCharleswill oversee the sale of all properties,Father Abbass said.“She will work directly withthe legal and financial settlementcommittee,” he said. “It’s herresponsibility to co-ordinate theland sales.”McCharles said about 400properties are eligible for sale.McCharles said she’s meetingwith Diocesan representatives thisweek to “develop a program and astandard” for the sales.Once the details are finalized,properties will be up for sale.Father Abbass said parishionerswill have the first chance to buyany properties.“Parishioners might, for verypractical reasons, see a use for a noncoreasset and wish to collectivelypurchase it back.”If parishioners refuse to make anoffer on a property, it will be listedpublicly, he added.Father Abbass said the series ofmeetings went well.“There were lots of questionsand lots of concerns, of course,”he said. “We did our very bestto answer questions and hear theconcerns of the people.”Veritas Catholic Books and GiftsCheck with Veritas for allyour church needs:hosts, altar wines, candles,vestments and vessels1546 Barrington Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 3X7Tel: (902) 429-7216; fax: (902) 429-7237email: info@veritasbooks.caSt. Bernard’s Veritas Outlet, EnfieldTel: 883-8834 Fax: 883-2461And in Cape Breton:Veritas Volunteer Extension & Lending Library35 Rear Intervale Rd. (Glencoe Rd.), Judique Intervale(902) 787-2103

PAGE 4 The Atlantic Catholic — May 29, 2010Diocesan NewsSt. Anthony Daniel CWL Celebrates 50 YearsBy Marlene MacInnesA Mass and dinner wascelebrated May 15 to mark the 50thanniversary of the St. AnthonyDaniel Parish Catholic Women’sLeague.January 31, 1960, the CWLwas established at the Sydneychurch and has since contributedfinancially to the parish throughmany fundraising activities whilepursuing spiritual well being amongits members and the parish.The CWL members reachout beyond the parish and localcommunity to help with Matercare,Share Lent, the Canadian CancerSociety and most recently Haiti,while still actively participatingin parish life.Some of their regular activitiesalso include sacramental receptionsfor parish students, numerousfarewell gatherings for departingclergy, special receptions forordinations and first Masses,after-funeral lunches for bereavedfamilies and friends and the schoolbreakfast program, to name afew.They have produced bannersfor the church over the years anddonated beautiful nativity figuresfor the Christmas display in thechurch.B i s h o p B r i a n D u n nconcelebrated the anniversaryMass with Fathers DonaldMacGillivray, Paul McGillivrayand Tom Lathigee. Members ofthe council also participated inthe liturgy.Current president PatriciaMacDonald was cross bearer. Thewomen’s choir, most of whom areCWL members, under the directionof Elma Aucoin and membersof the parish’s senior choir, theSaturday evening liturgy choirand the funeral choir were also apart of the liturgy. As part of theprocession, CWL members carriedthe Book of Life, the CWL Scarf,the Charter, a Picture of Our Ladyand the CWL Banner.Following the Mass FatherDouglas Murphy, ProvincialCWL Spiritual Advisor, was guestspeaker at the dinner which washeld in the parish hall. Fifty-yearpins, 40-year and 10-year pinswere presented, along with apresentation of flowers to chartermembers.The 50-year pin recipients,Virginia MacDonald, GraceArseneau, Mary Britten andFlorence Taylor have been involvedin the church over the years. Brittenand Taylor and their committeesproduced beautiful banners forliturgies. Arseneau was a lector formany years and MacDonald was“Mama Canada” to the parish’sCongratulations!The Atlantic Catholic congratulates columnistFrancis Campbell, who won first placein the Canadian Church Press Association’sBest Column category&Father Timothy Nelligan, who won firstplace for Best Theological Reflection for hisarticle Advent: A Season in its Own Right.“Compelling storytelling thatkeeps readers returning.”— CCP judgeMembers of the Catholic Women’s League members’ choir (top photo) sing during the Mass commemoratingthe St. Anthony Daniel CWL’s 50th anniversary. Diocese of Antigonish Bishop Brian Dunn celebrated the liturgyduring which Sandra O’Connell, Diocesan Communications and Earlene Landry, CWL secretary and past presidentserved at the altar. (Vernon MacDonald photos)Vietnamese family.“Fifty years ago, I was one of agroup of women who were invitedto establish a CWL council, part ofa national organization,” Arseneaurecalls.“I realize how much CWL hasbeen part of my life, how manyfriends I have made and how muchour coming together, whetherat meetings, social gatherings,liturgies, etc. has made us strongand helped us as we cared for ourown families but also worked for“God and Country.”Britten describes the variouscommittees of which she wasa part, and the many fall fairs,conferences, and conventions.“Being a member of such anorganization has been an enjoyableand wonderful experience,” Brittensaid.Taylor was still in high schoolwhen she began working on projectswith the Ladies Auxiliary.“One of the most rewardingundertakings was working with theGirl Guides and the Girls’ Group,both of which were sponsored byour CWL,” Taylor said.“I saw many years when it wasa struggle to get people to fill theposition of president, but withprayers and some twisting of arms,we continued on and we are allproud to belong to the organizationof wonderful women who run ittoday.”MacDonald agreed with theother 50 year honorees.“The older CWL members weregreat workers and instilled a lovefor the Church. I have very fondmemories of our CWL,” she said.Congratulations were shared byboth the provincial and nationalCWL presidents.“Fifty years ago, women ofvision gave your parish a preciousgift,” Provincial President JanicePeddle said.“This gift has been shared andnourished by many over the years. Irecall fondly the many workshops,meetings and conventions in yourhall while I lived in Sydney.”National CWL President DanielleMcNeil-Hessiansaid.She commended the council forits “dedication and commitment tothe Objects of the League and forits many accomplishments.”In her message as CWLpresident Patricia MacDonaldcalled the willing and activemembers of the council a blessingwith “creative minds who continueto bring new life to the CWL, justas those who had the faith and theinitiative to help bring the Leagueto St. Anthony Daniel Parish 50years ago.“There is no doubt we willcontinue to challenge ourselves inthe future, as we have done in thepast, to pursue ‘holiness throughservice to the people of God.”

The Atlantic Catholic — May 29, 2010Diocesan NewsSisters of Charity Honoured for Service to CanadaPage 7By Nicole MyshakA recent Government of Canadaannouncement could certainly beregarded as extraordinary in light ofthe far-reaching influence of secularhumanism.May 14 a Historic Sites andMonuments Board of Canada plaquewas unveiled commemorating thenational historic significance of thefounding of the Sisters of Charity ofSaint Vincent de Paul, Halifax.This public recognition of theundeniably rich contributionsof these religious was also anaffirmation of the enduring legacyof these women in education, healthcare and social services.Dr. Heidi MacDonald, whoparticipated in the unveilingceremony, emphasized theenormous “historical significance”of the sisters’ acceptance of thebishop’s invitation to come toHalifax and how their 1849 arrivalis appropriately being celebrated“as an event.”The faculty member withinthe Department of History at theUniversity of Lethbridge, ABrecounted how the sisters set upa home for orphaned childrenand became an independentcongregation in Halifax in 1856.Ten years later their involvementin health care began when members“They really didadvance the cause ofwomen,”— Sister RobertaKerins,a congregationalcounselor of theSisters of Charityvolunteered to nurse cholera victimsquarantined on McNabs Island inthe Halifax Harbour.This led to the building of fivehospitals where “unpaid but highlyskilled labour” was offered and“everyone received care” regardlessof their economic means.At the height of their educationalfocus the sisters held responsibilitiesin 100 elementary and high schools.Additionally, amongst the schoolsestablished and run by the Sisters ofBen Salem, an Asset Support Technician with Parks Canada, adjusts a plaque outside the Sisters of Charityof Saint Vincent de Paul, Halifax Motherhouse commemorating the work of the religious order. The publicacknowledgement was made May 14. The plaque reads: Sisters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul, Halifax —Coming to Halifax in 1849 as teachers, these sisters were the first English-speaking Catholic congregation to arrivein Canada. They established and ran a broad range of schools, including Mount Saint Vincent Academy in 1873,and, in 1925, Mount Saint Vincent College, the first degree-granting college for women in the Commonwealth.By 1913 they reported directly to Rome rather than to the local bishop. Beginning in the second half of the 19 thcentury, the congregation expanded from its base in Nova Scotia, providing educational, health care, religiousand social services throughout Canada and abroad.Charity, was Mount Saint VincentCollege, the only degree-grantinginstitution for women within theCommonwealth in 1925.A former student of the sistersand a scholar of women religious,MacDonald suggested one cannotunderstand the history of Halifaxas well as that of education, healthcare and feminism “withoutunderstanding the history of womenreligious.”M a c D o n a l d n o t e d t h a tmembership within the congregationpeaked at 1,600 in 1959 andpresently remains at approximately450. However, she said that, nomatter the number of sisters, therewere never enough of them tofulfill all needs and respond to allrequests.They have been “a strong voicefor members of our community” and“have always been on the frontline,”added Senator Stephen Greene,who took part in the unveiling onbehalf of Jim Prentice, Ministerof the Environment and Ministerresponsible for Parks Canada.The sisters have been “very modestabout their accomplishments,” heacknowledged to the standingroom-onlycrowd gathered at theCaritas Residence in Halifax for theannouncement.I n h o n o u r o f t h e s eaccomplishments the senator calledthe plaque a “formal recognition”of the important role played bythe Sisters of Charity “in Canada’sdevelopment.”Sister Roberta Kerins, SC, acongregational counselor of theSisters of Charity who traveled fromMaryland for the event, agreed withSenator Greene about the sisters’national contributions. She attributedthis to the “consciousness raising”that they were able to achieve.Sister Kerins explained that thesisters greatly aided in shaping“the conscience of a country” by“grounding it in religious values.”They accomplished this througha multiplicity of endeavours thatincluded the “very innovativeways” they cared for those whowere significantly ill. The sistersalso established a nursing schooland affirmed the dignity of womenin many ways such as the grantingof educational degrees to femalesin the 1920s, something “unheardof” at the time.“They really did advance thecause of women,” acknowledgedthe member of the leadership teamof the Sisters of Charity.Sister Kerins attributes suchactions to “the motivation” of faiththat compelled the sisters outwardsfrom the chapel in an expression ofservice to those in need.“All people have an innate dignitythat needs to be acknowledgedand served,” she said. The sistersperceived the “importance of thedignity of the human person”and recognized this through theiractions.“To celebrate the beginning of our 15th year inbusiness, we are offering a 20% discount on allproducts in our store. We can mail goods.”

PAGE 8 The Atlantic Catholic — May 29, 2010Youth NewsSteubenville Uses New Media To Empower TeensFacebook, YouTube and textmessages are a far cry from aparish bulletin. Yet, SteubenvilleAtlantic, a regional high schoolyouth conference hosted by theArchdiocese of Halifax, haslaunched a new “Come and See”initiative that seeks to reach outto young people through socialcommunication media.The project asks teens to considerinviting a friend to experiencethis year’s Steubenville Atlanticconference being held July 30to Aug. 1 at St. Francis XavierUniversity in Antigonish.Current registrants are beingchallenged to reach out to theirpeers through e-mail and textmessages, YouTube video andFacebook announcements.“Our goal is to encourageyoung people to take ownershipof this conference and to takean interest in the faith of theirfriends,” conference organizerJohn Stevens says.Stevens notes he increasinglyhears the refrain that “our parishhas no young people.”“Therefore, it becomes extremelyimportant to embolden those whoare involved to reach out in theirareas of influence,” he says.The coordinator of youthministry for the Archdiocese ofHalifax contends that “while thedelivery methods are new theconcept is not.”In fact, he notes, it was reflectionon a Gospel passagethat brought the ideato the fore. Whilefacing discouragementin efforts to reachout to parishes andyoung people, Stevensrealized Jesus couldrelate. In Matthewchapter 9 the Lordlooks out on the crowdsand sees a harassed andsearching multitude.“Our young people findthemselves in a very similar setof circumstances. Jesus’ immenselove and desire to bring thosepeople into the Kingdom of Godprompted Him to remark that‘the harvest is plentiful but thelabourers are few.’ The Lordadmonished His disciples to ‘askRespect Life Centre344 Main Street, ANTIGONISH(902)863-6636the Lord of the harvest to send outlabourers,’” Stevens says.“It was through praying for theselabourers that I first realized whatJesus did next. He answered Hisown prayer.”“ O f c o u r s eanswering your ownprayer is a distinctadvantage thatc o m e s w i t hbeing the Sonof God,” Stevens adds with asmile.After praying for labourers Jesuscalled the twelve Apostles andsends them on their first mission.In much the same way this effortReligious Goods for Baptisms, Weddings, First Communions and HolyDays. Baby Blankets, Frames, Photo Albums, Plush Toys, Musical Tapes,Irish Goods, Wall Hangings, Cards, Dishes and more . . .seeks to call youth participants and“mission” them.The name of the project, “Comeand See,” is drawn from anotherGospel image. Early in John’sGospel Philip, after encounteringChrist, finds his brother Nathanaeland says, “We have found the oneabout whom Moses wrote in thelaw, and also the prophets …Comeand see.”C o n f e r e n c e o r g a n i z e r srecognize that it is sometimesdifficult to have the courage to talkwith a friend about faith and so asa way to offer encouragement the“Come and See” initiative featuresan opportunity for those who invitetheir friends — and those theyinvite — to win prizes rangingfrom iPods to conference t-shirts.“With the prizes we reallywanted to avoid that ‘marketing’feeling of being used for personalgain,” Stevens says. “So westructured things in such a waythat both the inviter and inviteewin together.”This mirrors the reality ofinviting someone to experienceChrist, both the evangelized and theevangelist grow in faith.At the heart of it all the effort isnot about new media but the newevangelization. The conference isusing the methods and means of thetime to make Christ present in theworld today.Stevens concludes by saying“this year’s conference theme —‘In the Flesh’ — is about bringingthe reality of Christ into our livesand into the world. The ‘Come andSee’ initiative is a concrete exampleof making our theme more than aslogan but a lived reality.”To learn more about this initiativeand the conference visit www.steubenville.ca/inviteUpcoming eventsMay 31, 2010Drop Spots DeadlineGroups already registered have to inform organizers if they will beusing all the spots they have deposited for. After this point groups areresponsible for the entire amount owing.We have books for summer reading andgift items for Baptisms and WeddingsJune 5, 2010 (Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ)Holy Hour — St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica, Halifax, NSHonour the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ and pray for ourupcoming youth conference during an evening of Eucharistic exposition,music and prayer. All are welcome and reception to follow at CatholicPastoral Centre, 1531 Grafton Street.Registration DeadlineAll registration closes.June 30, 2010

The Atlantic Catholic — May 29, 2010AngrisanoEagerTo VisitAtlanticCanadaSteve Angrisano, afeatured speaker at thissummer’s SteubenvilleAtlantic conference inAntigonish, is an internationally recognized Catholic musician andyouth speaker who has been featured at major youth conferencesand rallies across the U.S., Canada and Europe. Angrisano wasthe emcee for the 2009 National Catholic Youth Conference aswell as for the National Pro-Life Rally at the Verizon Center inWashington, DC this past January. Angrisano has been involvedwith many World Youth Days including Cologne, Germany in2005 and Australia 2008.Angrisano said the Steubenville conference deepens andchanges his faith every time and he can’t wait to see what God hasin store for Steubenville Atlantic. Angrisano lives in HighlandsRanch, Colorado, with his wife, Jenni, and his three children,Julia, Joshua and Joseph.Religious CrosswordACROSS1 Daughter-in-law of Ruth6 Hollow cylinder10 Small clump of bushes14 Head of an abbey15 Facial orbs16 Early Christianity flourishedin ______ Minor17 Tour director18 Unit of power19 Web-footed aquatic bird20 Guides the shipYouth NewsBy Samantha HermackGrowing up in a Catholic home,I always thought that my faith waspretty strong. I went to Mass everyweek, took religious education, hada regular prayer life and, because Iwas actually interested in learningabout God, I was known for beinga bit of a “Jesus geek.”I suppose that all of thisconvinced me that my relationshipwith God was good where it was,and that I didn’t have to worryabout it.I was pretty excited to go toSteubenville Atlantic my first timein 2008 but I didn’t really expectto change much. I figured that itwould be fun, that I’d listen to afew interesting speakers and thengo home and just keep living mylife as usual.What I didn’t expect was to be sochallenged and inspired. Over thecourse of the weekend, I realizedthat even though I had a relationshipwith God, I had plenty of room togrow. I was far from being as strongas I’d thought.22 Practice24 Pertaining to the nonordainedmembers of theChurch26 The sea of the Exodus27 Pigpen28 There were twelve32 Fabled bird34 Purse35 Merits37 One of the gifts of the Magi41 Let air out of a line43 There are seven in Revelation45 Gaming cubes46 First letter of the Hebrewalphabet48 Toast50 Sesame plant51 Big _____, fast-foodsandwich53 Celestial55 Mail deliverer (abbr.)58 Testing room60 Shelter for honeybees61 Figured64 Seaport in N Spain68 Uncover69 Rowing implements71 Papal crown72 ___ deucy73 Convent dwellers74 Convocation of witches75 The Good ____76 Store77 FakeriesDOWN1 Hen-pecks2 Adjoin3 Off-Broadway theater award4 “Body of Christ” and “Peopleof God” are _____ of theChurch5 Do repeatedly6 Church seat7 8th month of the Jewishcalendar8 “…you are ____, and uponthis rock I will build mychurch…” (Mt 16:18)9 Biblical heroine10 Bye bye11 Consumers12 Commandment which tells usto put nothing before God13 First Catholic US SupremeCourt Justice21 Barnabas’ partner23 Biblical nation25 Goddess of tillage28 Jesus’ name for the Father29 Linen square which coversthe chalice30 Double curve in mathematics31 Garden tempter(Solutions on Page 12)Page 9Conference Inspires YouthFRIENDS Rosalinda Kan, Lara Shaw and Sam Hermack enjoy a break froma Steubenville Atlantic Youth Conference. This year’s conference takesplace July 30 to Aug. 1. (Submitted photo)Going to Steubenville pushedme to constantly try to serve Godbetter: to pray more sincerely, tolove others more and to make better,more Christ-like choices.I was very eager to go toSteubenville again the next year,and sought to stretch my faith evenfarther by taking part in FranciscanLEAD. That year I was introducedto some of the most amazing peopleI’ve ever met, from all across thecountry, some of whom are my verybest friends nearly a year later.Between the actual conferenceexperience, the people I met andthe powerful workings of the HolySpirit, Steubenville Atlantic hasgiven me the tools to strengthenthe most important relationship inmy life — my relationship with myLord and Saviour, Jesus Christ!Hermack is from Grand Bay-Westfield, NB.33 Dancer Charisse36 One of the seven deadlysins38 Religious ceremony39 Religious instruction forthose wishing to becomeCatholic (abbr.)40 Eternal damnation42 Foot dr.44 Indian form of address47 Angel’s hat?49 Members of the priestlycaste of Judaism52 Church laws54 Condiment55 A papal name56 “_______ be with you.”57 Metal fastener59 Something remarkable62 “I will give to you the ___to the kingdom…” (Mt16:19)63 Spy movie65 Ali ____ and the FortyThieves66 Biblical name of ancientSyria67 Cereal food70 Wind directionAC 326

PAGE 10 The Atlantic Catholic — May 29, 2010Diocesan NewsThe following is the listof readings for theNinth and Tenth Weeksin Ordinary Time.Pro-Lifers Gather at Province HouseSunday, May 30Liturgical Year C, Cycle IISolemnity of the Holy TrinityFirst Reading: Prv 8:22-31Resp. Psalm: Ps 8:4-5, 6-7, 8-9Second Reading: Rm 5:1-5Gospel: Jn 16:12-15Monday, May 31Feast of the Visitation ofMary to the Virgin ElizabethFirst Reading:Zep 3:14-18, or Rm 12:9-16Resp. Psalm: I 12:2-3, 4, 5-6Gospel: Lk 1:39-56Tuesday, June 1Memorial of St. Justin,martyrFirst Reading:2 Pt 3:12-15, 17-18Resp. Psalm:Ps 90:2, 3-4, 10, 14, 16Gospel: Mk 12:13-17Wednesday, June 2Optional Memorial of Sts.Marcellinus and Peter,martyrsFirst Reading: 2 Tm 1:1-3, 6-12Resp. Psalm: Ps 123:1-2, 2Gospel: Mk 12:18-27Thursday, June 3Memorial of St. CharlesLwanga and companions,martyrsFirst Reading: 2 Tm 2:8-15Resp. Psalm: Ps 110:1, 2, 3, 4Gospel: Mk 12:28-34Friday, June 4First FridayFirst Reading: 2 Tm 3:10-17Resp. Psalm: Ps 119:157, 160,161, 165, 166, 168Gospel: Mk 12:35-37Saturday, June 5First SaturdayMemorial of St. Boniface,bishop and martyrFirst Reading: 2 Tm 4:1-8Resp. Psalm:Ps 71:8-9, 14-15, 16-17, 22Gospel: Mk 12:38-44Sunday, June 6First Reading: 1 Kgs 17:17-24Resp. Psalm: Ps 30:2, 4, 5-6,11, 12, 13Second Reading: Gal 1:11-19Gospel: Lk 7:11-17Monday, June 7First Reading: 1 Kgs 17:1-7Resp. Psalm:Ps 121:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8Gospel: Mt 5:1-12Tuesday, June 8First Reading: 1 Kgs 17:7-16Resp. Psalm: Ps 4:2-3, 4-5, 7-8Gospel: Mt 5:13-16Wednesday, June 9Optional Memorial of St.Ephrem, deacon and doctorFirst Reading: 1 Kgs 18:20-39Resp. Psalm: Ps 16:1-2, 4, 5, 8, 11Gospel: Mt 5:17-19Thursday, June 10First Reading: 1 Kgs 18:41-46Resp. Psalm: Ps 65:10, 10-11, 12-13Gospel: Mt 5:20-26Friday, June 11Solemnity of the Most SacredHeart of JesusFirst Reading: Ez 34:11-16Resp. Psalm:Ps 23:1-3, 3-4, 5, 6Second Reading: Rm 5:5-11Gospel: Lk 15:3-7Saturday, June 12Memorial of the ImmaculateHeart of MaryFirst Reading: Is 61:9-11Resp. Psalm:Ps 16:1-2, 5, 7-8, 9-10Gospel: Lk 2:41-51RosarySunday and Wednesday:The Glorious Mysteries;Monday and Saturday:The Joyful Mysteries;Tuesday and Friday:The Sorrowful Mysteries;Thursday:The Luminous MysteriesApproximately 100 people attended a noontime rally at Province House in Halifax May 13. The event waspart of the third annual March for Life, which commemorated the anniversary of the 1969 Omnibus Bill whichdecriminalized abortion in Canada. (Myshak photo)Claymore Inn& Conference CentreChurch Street, Antigonish, NS B2G 2M5902-863-1050 * greenway.inn@ns.sympatico.caNova Scotia’s leader in environmental hospitality Conference facilities for up to 300 Environmentally clean rooms Indoor pool, sauna and hottub Executive roomsClergy receives a 50% discount We’re located next to the Antigonish Shopping Centre

The Atlantic Catholic — May 29, 2010National NewsPage 11WOOMB Canada Celebrates 30 YearsMay 15, a Mass of thanksgivingwas offered at the Seneca CollegeConvention Centre in King City,Ont., to mark the 30th Anniversaryof WOOMB Canada (WorldOrganization of the OvulationMethod Billings). During a banquetfollowing Mass participantslearned that Pope Benedict XVIhad honoured WOOMB Canadawith an Apostolic Blessing “incommemoration and recognitionof its invaluable work in assistingcouples over the past 30 years.”Founding member and nationalspiritual advisor Father JosephHattie, OMI, described how,under the auspices of WOOMBInternational in Australia, WOOMBCanada was started by a merehandful of pioneers. A registeredcharity existing on donations andsustained mainly by prayer andtrust, WOOMB has trained scoresof dedicated teachers and enhancedthe lives of thousands of Canadianfamilies.In the 1950s, the late Dr. JohnBillings urged by his parish priest,and later aided by his wife Dr. Lynand other colleagues, began workingto develop a totally natural way toachieve or postpone pregnancy.They had a particular desire to helpfamilies, and a special concern forfamilies in poor and developingcountries.The resulting Billings OvulationMethod (BOM) of Natural FamilyPlanning, is now supported by over50 years of scientific research byleading doctors in reproductivehealth, thousands of women, andscores of studies. The method isrecognized by the World HealthOrganization as over 99 percenteffective in postponing pregnancy.It is also highly effective inachieving pregnancy among thoseseeking that result as well as widelycredited with enhancing couplerelationships and contributing todomestic harmony.These good effects are asachievable among illiterates andthe poor, as among the affluent andhighly literate.“In Canada, we work throughestablished groups committedto teaching and promoting theauthentic Billings method,” explainsNova Scotians Ray and Janice Hodgson were joined by Fr. Joseph Hattieat the World Organization of the Ovulation Method Billings Canada meetingsheld in Ontario earlier this month. (Submitted photo)instructor and registered nurse AnnMurray of Kingston.Responding to increasingrequests for service, WOOMBCanada continues efforts to ensurethat fully trained, accredited andexperienced teachers will beavailable in every province. Sixprovinces already have activeprovincial associations and othersare in development.The dedicated men and womenwho teach the BOM are highlymotivated.“We are leaders in fertilityeducation, assisting women andcouples all across the country tobuild a culture of life,” NationalPresident Doreen Beagan said.Despite the modern fixation onsexual matters and sex education,there is widespread “fertilityilliteracy,” prompting Calgarysenior instructor Cathy Perri todescribe herself as a FertilityAwareness Educator.Louise Dione of Maple Ridge,BC added, “I love that it bothnourishes maternal health, andteaches respect and reverence forthe gifts of sexuality and fertility.”Rose Heron, Chair of WOOMB’sNational Education Committee isconvinced that BOM is the thingof the future. The young men sheencounters seem to agree. They ask“if this has no side effects and is aseffective as the Pill, why aren’t theyteaching us about it,” Heron said.The Billings Method, alreadyin use when Humanae Vitae wasreleased, is totally in harmony withthe Church teachings containedtherein, and demonstrates that it isentirely possible to live in harmonywith those teachings.But the method is not just forCatholics.Lyn Billings explains thatwomen the world over are entitledto accurate biological knowledgeof the way their bodies function,so they can learn to recognizeand interpret their patterns offertility. Couples everywhere canuse this information to enhancetheir conjugal love and to practiceresponsible parenthood, as theirconviction and circumstancesdictate. It is information meant foreveryone.National board meetings andthe annual general meeting alsotook place on the weekend. Theywere preceded by a two-daymeeting of the education committeewhich oversees the training andaccreditation of teachers inline with exacting internationalstandards developed to ensure thatthey understand and accuratelyimpart the pertinent applicationsof ongoing scientific research onhuman fertility.Also during the weekend,certificates of appreciation werepresented to WOOMB Canada’sfounders and the organization,already under the protection ofSt. Michael and St. Gianna, wasformally consecrated, with all itsmembers and its work, to MaryImmaculate.Participants from eastern Canadawere National President DoreenBeagan of Charlottetown; DirectorsRaymond and Janice Hodgsonof Churchville, NS; and NationalSpiritual Advisor Father JosephHattie, OMI, of the ArchdiocesanOffice of Marriage preparation andFamily Life in Halifax.29144 5-29/6-12

PAGE 12 The Atlantic Catholic — May 29, 2010National NewsMarriage PrepGoes High TechBy Deborah GyapongOTTAWA (CCN)—Catholicmarriage preparation has gonehigh tech transforming lives overthe Internet.The course’s founder saidcouples who are often livingtogether before marriage andalready using artificial birth controltake the course and then chooseto refrain from sex until theirwedding day and pledge to usenatural family planning.“ We h a v e i n c r e d i b l eresults,” the co-creator ofCatholicMarriagePrep.comChristian Meert told Englishspeaking priests and pastoralworkers in the Ottawa ArchdioceseMay 5.This is not an ordinary coursefocusing only on equippingcouples with the practical tools offinances, budgeting and effectivecommunication. The divorcerate has kept rising despite suchcourses, Meert said.CatholicMarriagePrep.comstarts with a rich theologicalformation based on Catholicteaching, including Pope John PaulII’s Theology of the Body.“We speak a lot about Godbecause marriage is first of all aspiritual adventure,” said Meert,who developed the course with hiswife Christine.“God invented marriage tohelp us go to heaven and bring ourchildren to heaven.”On May 5 and 6, Meert explainedhis course to priests and pastoralworkers in both the English andFrench sectors of the OttawaArchdiocese at the invitation ofArchbishop Terrence Prendergast,SJ, who said he encourages the useof the course as an option.The Meerts are Christianmissionaries from France whonow work out of Colorado Springs,Colorado. They came to America11 years ago when DenverArchbishop Charles Chaputinvited them to devise a marriagepreparation course.The online courses have “live”instructors who read the materialfrom the worksheets participantsfill out in a profile accessed througha user name and password. Thecourse can take anywhere froma week to three months for acouple to move through at theirown pace.It costs $150 U.S. per couple.Participants can choose to maketheir profile available to theirpriest. The Meerts also offer acourse to teach married coupleshow to present the course “live”in a parish setting. It costs $400U.S.The online course allowscouples who are in separate citiesor rural areas to take the course,Meert said.Though they run both liveand online versions of CatholicMarriage Preparation, the onlinecourse often allows couples to befar more honest and deep in theiranswers, he said.The theological discussionsbegin with Genesis and thevocation of humankind createdin God’s image, Meert said. Thecourse covers the vocation of aman, the vocation of a woman,God as Trinity, the consequencesof sin and the hope of salvation.“We don’t know the faith“God invented marriage to help us go toheaven and bring our children to heaven.”— Christian Meert,CatholicMarriagePrep.comformation when they start thecourse,” Meert said. “Most of thetime it is very shallow.”The initial Bible study, thatrequires participants to think anddig for answers, makes themOne-yearsubscriptionwithin Canada$ 2901tax incl.Bulk rates for parishes and organizations are available.Call 902-863-4370 or emailatlanticcatholic@thecasket.caThumbs up for OLOSThe students at Our Lady of Schools (OLOS) in Halifax illustrate that it is never too early to start social action orcommunity service with young children. Since Christmas, the students have set out to “make a difference.”Their charitable activities began with Christmas food and clothing hampers for the less fortunate. These actsof benevolence were followed by casual dress days for Haiti and most recently their “Shoes for Souls Drive.”After hearing Shoes for Souls founder Kyle Warkentin speak about his experiences in Zambia and why hefounded the organization, the OLOS students went into action and started their shoe drive encouraging everyonewho wanted to get involved.The project was an ideal way to teach the students that they can make a difference in the life of one individualor for a whole community. The final count revealed 109 pairs of shoes were collected. The students said thatthey “really enjoyed helping those in need” and are looking forward to their next project.realize “Wow! there is somethinginteresting for us” in the Bibletexts written thousands of yearsago, he said.The theological foundationhelps them to see that “the powerto decide good and evil belongs toGod alone,” he said.Couples are inviting Jesus totheir wedding, just as Jesus wasinvited to the Wedding at Cana, hesaid. That special guest needs to beconsidered in the same way thatwe could never invite a Muslimto a feast where we were servingpork, he said.The course does not skirt thecontentious issues of cohabitationbefore marriage or contraception.About 90 per cent of couples todayare having sexual relations beforemarriage, he said. “Today theydon’t even know that contraceptionis a sin.”If these issues were broughtup first, without the theologicalfoundations, the participants wouldvehemently object, he said. Butafter the teaching, most couplescome around to accepting themoral teachings as well.In 2009, 79 percent of couplessigned a pledge card to refrain fromsexual relations until marriage, 16percent said they needed more timeto discuss the matter further, andonly five percent said, “No.” Onnatural family planning, 61 percentpledged to use it, 33 percent saidthey needed more time, and onlysix percent refused, he said.The course also teaches aboutannulment, because a priest hadtold them how tired he was ofexplaining it to couples when theirmarriage broke down. Insteadcouples entering marriage need toknow the seriousness of enteringfreely into the Sacrament ofMarriage, he said.The practical issues are covered,including a section on pornography.“There is a huge problem in oursociety,” he said. “Pornography isthe silent killer of families.”Included in the section onfinances, is teaching on theimportance of tithing.