Diocesan students, staffs mark Celebrate Catholic Schools Week
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Diocese of Fall River, Mass. † Friday, February 5, 2021
Diocesan students, staffs mark
Celebrate Catholic Schools Week
FALL RIVER — Since 1974, Cele- community.
brate Catholic Schools Week has meant “I never knew it was like this and feel
a week at the end of January full of fun so blessed that my children are now at a
activities, inter-school competitions, Catholic school,” stated Christine Matias,
and dress-down days culminating with a parent of a kindergarten student at St.
weekly school Mass. As with most things James-St. John School in New Bedford.
this year, Celebrate Catholic Schools “While my children were getting a good
Week will have a very different meaning education at their previous school, the
for the 20 Catholic schools of the Dio- pandemic has made us rethink what is
cese of Fall River as they celebrate what truly important. Difficult times call for
makes their faith, communi-
schools unique ty and apprecia-
during the week tion of ‘normal-
of January 31 cy’ and we could A student at Holy Name School in Fall River begins her
— February 6. not be happier day with her classmates with morning prayer. This week,
Every day of the that our children diocesan schools have been taking part in the annual
week will have are getting these national Celebrate Catholic Schools Week with a number
a new theme — every day at St. special events and activities.
from celebrating James-St. John
with the parish,
to celebrating students and teachers, to
School.”
“Celebrate Catholic School Week is a
Bishop Feehan ice hockey
celebrating our nation.
While the 2020-21 school year will be
wonderful opportunity for all families to
learn more about Catholic education and
player suffers serious injury
remembered as the year of masks, social why it has been a valued education for By Dave Jolivet “One minute everything is
Editor perfectly normal, suddenly it’s
distancing and hand sanitizer, it will also decades,” indicated Daniel S. Roy, Su-
davejolivet@anchornews.org not. It was a normal game, and
be recalled as the year of challenges for perintendent of Catholic Schools for the a normal play.” But quickly it
education in general. Catholic schools Diocese of Fall River. “As families make ATTLEBORO — It was a
nightmare scenario. At a high was evident something was
have much to celebrate as they often have educational decisions for the Fall of 2021, seriously wrong.
school ice hockey game pitting
been a haven of stability for the many we encourage all families to consider After Quetta was taken
Bishop Feehan High School
families and students benefiting from the investing in a Catholic education for the against Pope Francis High to the hospital, play resumed,
in-person Catholic education since the formation of the whole child — mind, School in West Springfield, 8 Turn to page 11
end of August. body and soul.” Feehan senior A.J. Quetta
Moreover, even during the pandem- Affordability is the main worry for crashed head first into the
ic, the Diocese of Fall River Catholic many new families as they engage in boards and suffered a very
schools continue to live out the Catholic learning more about the Catholic schools serious injury. He was taken
faith by integrating the teachings of Jesus in the Diocese of Fall River. “The cost from the rink on a stretcher
Christ into all that is done at the schools of tuition is of great concern to many and rushed to the hospital.
every day. Many other educational fo- families,” said Christina Duggan, Vice As of press time, Quetta
rums do not have the benefit of someone President of Operations for the Catholic has had one successful surgery
at Mass General Hospital in
sitting with each child and helping them Foundation of Southeastern Massachu-
Boston, but his prognosis is
learn to pray — which is one of the gifts setts. “Each of our elementary schools still unclear.
of Catholic education that has been ex- encourages families to apply to the “This is every parent’s
perienced by so many new families who Foundation to Advance Catholic Edu- nightmare,” Feehan president
have recently joined the Catholic school Tim Sullivan told The Anchor.
February 5, 2021 senior
8 Turn to page three Feehan † A.J. Quetta 1
2 † February 5, 2021
Schools mark Celebrate Catholic Schools Week While Catholic schools integrated into every aspect partnership to educate the
continued from page one have weathered many chal- of a child’s development. children of the Diocese of
cation (FACE) which helps Other concerns that lenges over the past few de- For more information Fall River in Catholic faith
reduce the cost of tuition have been expressed by cades, there is no doubt that about Celebrate and values. Our schools
by providing scholarships. interested families are Catholic schools are still a Catholic Schools Week, have a demanding educa-
Almost 950 students re- special education services valued piece of this coun- please go to www. tional culture that helps
ceived a needs-based award for their child. The Diocese try’s educational landscape. catholicschoolsalliance.org/ students from across the
this year, which in many of Fall River has made great Whether a family’s interest celebrate-catholic-schools. academic spectrum reach
cases can reduce tuition by improvements in special in Catholic education is due For more information their God-given poten-
30-50 percent; and for many education by partnering to the rigorous academics, about scholarships from tial. With an emphasis on
schools, this can result in a with the S.E.A.L. Founda- or for the formation of the Foundation to Advance service and respect for the
monthly tuition payment tion, who oversees the spe- the whole child, Catholic Catholic Education, please dignity of every person, we
of $300 or less. Awards are cial education professionals schools continue to pro- go to www.FACE-dfr.org. prepare students to meet
determined by a family’s fi- in each partnering school, vide children and families The Catholic Schools the challenges of today’s
nancial circumstances at the as well as providing special a faith-filled communi- Alliance comprises admin- diverse world and become
time of application. FACE education assistance to stu- ty where the values and istrators, teachers, staff, meaningful contributors to
scholarships help reduce dents who have a learning teachings of Jesus Christ are parents and clergy joined in society.
the tuition cost and make a difference to ensure sup-
Catholic school education portive accommodations
more attainable and, in the are provided. In addition to
end, families realize that a the very high quality special
Catholic education is well education services, the
worth the investment. Fam- smaller class sizes of Catho-
ilies are encouraged to apply lic schools lend themselves
early for the best chance of to a more personalized
receiving an award as funds education focusing on each
are limited.” student’s specific needs.
February 5, 2021 † 3
Catholic Schools Week — 2021; Faith. Excellence. Service.
By Daniel S. Roy been and where God is and will inevitably create young people to see that due to what we are offer-
Superintendent of Schools calling us to be. In par- new opportunities. Our they are being called by ing. What a blessing to ex-
Diocese of Fall River ticular, we recall how our schools will continue the their gifts and talents to pand our Catholic school
FALL RIVER — In Catholic school communi- long tradition of educating respond to where God is community! So many of
expressing his gratitude for ties have faced the chal- calling them to serve and these families have ex-
Catholic educators, Pope lenges of the pandemic, lead. pressed gratitude for their
Francis said, “Educating distancing, masking, and Whether we are work- Catholic school and have
is like an act of love; it is cleaning in order to create ing from home or the been some of the first to
like giving life.” Catholic the space for learning. The office, our daily schedules re-enroll their children for
Schools Week has always sacrifices of our students, have changed dramatically the 2021-22 school year.
been a wonderful time for families, teachers, and from this time last year. They have become some
Catholic schools to cele- administrators have made Social distancing require- of the best advocates for
brate their unique ability to it possible for our schools ments and large gathering Catholic education and are
educate the whole child — to continue to serve the limitations ensure that we ever ready to share their
mind, body and soul. greater good. spend more time at home story with their circles of
This year, Catholic In doing so, we remain and in smaller groups. family, friends, and other
Schools Week offers ev- attentive to where God is Gone are the days of soccer prospective families.
eryone an opportunity to calling us. The pandemic tournaments, dinners on During this Catholic
reflect on where we have has exposed many needs the run, and homework Schools Week, each day’s
Daniel S. Roy crammed in on Sunday theme is communicated by
night. Over the past year, a new video that highlights
our sense of communi- the many aspects of our
ty has been disrupted in schools; i.e. our parish, our
many ways, though our community, our nation,
Catholic schools have of- our faculty, and voca-
fered an alternative. tions. Our Catholic school
The resumption of community is made up of
in-person learning this so many wonderful people
past fall provided families with so many interesting
with peace of mind that backgrounds and experi-
their children would be ences. We are pleased to
welcomed back to caring have Edna McKenna, a re-
learning environments. tired Navy Command Se-
Our schools have managed nior Chief Supply Officer,
to remain open for full teach at Bishop Stang High
in-person learning as well School. Claudine Cloutier,
as provide a remote option an attorney with Keches
for families desiring it — Law Group, freely gives of
and many of our teachers her time and talent as the
would say that they have chair of the FACE Board
never worked harder. They of Directors. St. Stanislaus
also realize how much School’s new relationship
they prefer community to with the Catholic Collabo-
remoteness. They know rative of Central Fall River
that their Catholic school has seen an influx of many
provides familiarity and new students with many
connection that comes new traditions which have
from being with others benefited the culture and
in a safe environment. learning opportunities for
Classrooms and hallways all students and staff. We
have sustained the “nor- are not limiting ourselves
malcy” of homework, to expressing our wonder-
tests, friends, lunches, and ful story to just one week
school Masses. and look forward to a
Our schools are wel- continuous stream of ways
coming many new families to tell our unique story.
4 † February 5, 2021
How to respond to prodigal Catholic public figures?
H ow do we respond
effectively as Cath-
olics to the tragically too
stopped coming to Mass, are
cohabitating with a boyfriend
or girlfriend, invalidly mar-
a desire not to let the par-
ent or grandparent “win” or
incentivize his or her style of
cians will likely lead them to
conversion and remove the
scandal or get the politicians
helping people remember
that they are beloved mem-
bers of the family, even when
common circumstance of ried, or in some other serious attempted persuasion — but to dig in and try to use it they make sinful decisions.
Catholics in prominent posi- immoral situation. it can unintentionally dete- to their political advantage Similar practical wis-
tions blatantly betraying the As if that’s not a big riorate the relational bridges — and perhaps even cause dom should inform the way
Catholic faith? On the inten- enough concern already, that the loved one may need other unintended stumbling Catholic citizens as a whole
tional killing of fellow human they then tell me that their to come back to the commu- blocks to the faithful. approach Catholic public
beings, the truth about the children or grandchildren nion of the faith. As part of that dialogue I figures who oppose, rather
family, the revelation about have stopped talking to them. “What’s the right way to ask how we generally handle than live by and proclaim,
the human person made in When I ask what happened, do it, Father?,” several have the situation of pro-abortion the Gospel.
God’s image male or female, the pattern is almost always desperately asked. family members or those The last story is St.
and Christ’s personal iden- the same. They recount that “Your loved ones need who otherwise take positions Monica. For 17 years she
tification with the hungry, they gave witness to the to know the truth and where or live in ways contrary to had to deal with the various
thirsty, sick, naked, impris- truth, let their loved ones you stand,” I reply. “But you Catholic faith and morals. moral problems of her pagan
oned, migrant or someone know that they were Do we generally “ex- husband Patricius and her
otherwise in need? sinning, appealed to communicate” them cantankerous mother-in-law,
There is, of course, no them to convert and from Thanksgiving and then for 15 additional
single, concrete, detailed an- go to Confession, dinner? years she had to suffer the
swer applicable in every time expressed their fear In large audienc- flagrant sins of her famous
and place with every person. that they would go es, there are always a son Augustine. She patiently
As Catholics, truth and love to hell if they died, few who say they do. told the truth, forgave, loved
must always be part of our and so on. I politely ask what’s and prayed. All three eventu-
response since without truth “How did she been the impact of ally converted. And because
we leave others enslaved and respond?,” I gently that de facto famil- of 32 years of persevering
without charity we are just ask. “Terribly” is the ial exile. Does it prayer for their conversions,
a noisy gong. Prudence is basic reply. don’t need to remind them lead the offending parties to she, too, became a saint.
always required to know best “How often would you every time you see them.” conversion? Are the other St. Monica teaches us
what to say, when and how. say these things to him?,” I For the call to conver- family members happier as a that in response to the sins of
The other theological and query. “Almost every time I sion to be effective, in most result or does it weigh like a our family members and the
cardinal virtues — faith in see him!” circumstances it must be pall over the gathering? I’m disappointment and worry
God, hope that people can It’s certainly understand- enveloped by a thick layer of grateful for the honesty of the we experience as a result,
change, courage to say things able that a faithful parent or love, rather than shrouded interlocutors who have hum- we’re not called to become
out of season, justice with re- grandparent would worry, in shame, embarrassment, bly admitted that it has not the wagging fingers of the
gard to the real harms done, even obsess, about the situa- fear and what may seem like brought about conversions Mystical Body of Christ but
and moderation not to go too tion of a loved one in dan- judgmentalism. That’s why in and in fact has divided the the calloused knees. We’re
far too soon — are always ger. If the person were in an such situations it’s important family with regard to those called not to “virtue signal”
similarly helpful. There is ICU in danger of death, it is to focus nine parts on loving who “support” the ostracized the truth as take-it-or-leave-
also the indispensable guid- natural that the elder would as normal, and one part on family member versus those it propositions with eternal
ance and assistance of the struggle to think about illustrating that that love like- who “oppose.” consequences, but announce
Holy Spirit and His gifts. anything else. Hence it makes wise extends to appropriate For the vast majority who the truth in affectionate char-
Since many Catholics, sense that faithful parents concern for their loved one’s admit they don’t excommu- ity, reminding them by our
however, are tempted to and grandparents would sim- soul, relationship with God nicate family members, I ask behavior of the love of the
objectify, treat by different ilarly be preoccupied when and eternal happiness. why they don’t. In general Father of the Prodigal Son.
standards and occasionally their loved ones’ souls were The second story has they say that they don’t think Where such sins of our
even dehumanize Catholics in serious danger. to do with a question I it will work to bring the prominent Catholic family
in public office who are un- But how they handle the get every time I give adult individuals to repentance and members abound, as they
faithful to Church teaching situation matters. Especial- education talks on Catho- they fear it will only drive the unhappily do, our prayers
in scandalously conspicuous ly in circumstances when lics and politics: “Why don’t family further apart. They must abound all the more,
ways, it’s helpful to examine their loved ones are in denial the bishops excommunicate also admit that, with respect and far more than our criti-
the ways most Catholics about the moral qualification pro-abortion Catholic pol- to the bad example that might cisms, however just.
handle circumstances in of their lifestyle, or when iticians?” It’s a fair question be given to younger gener- We must never lose a
their own families and apply they feel trapped, power- that is often phrased with a ations, they have a greater profound sense of family
that practical wisdom to the less or too afraid to change mix of frustration and dis- duty to teach the faith well — ecclesial and national —
circumstances of prominent it, bringing it up in every couragement, and occasion- and maturely: that loving a even if made dysfunctional
prodigal sons and daughters conversation as if it’s the only ally with a sense that they wayward uncle is not incom- by sin.
of the family of faith. thing that matters is counter- think the prelates are weak patible with helping them see We must always remem-
I’d like to mention three productive. Not only can it cowards, or asleep with their that not all of his decisions ber that persevering prayer,
different stories. stimulate people’s defensive- rod and staff, or even secretly are wise and holy ones. like Monica’s, does work, as
The first has happened ness to their whole life sum- pro-abortion. In these discussions, I does incessant charity, and
often in parish life. Parents marized by the expression I generally begin by generally encourage people through them, God makes
or grandparents come to see “living in sin,” or resentment speaking about canon law to remember that bishops saints.
me, crestfallen, frustrated over seeming to be more about excommunication. But are asking themselves similar Anchor columnist
and at their wits’ end, over judged than loved — leading then I shift to prudence, as to questions about balancing Father Roger Landry can be
the situation of their children the person to “dig in” and whether they think excom- a clear witness to the truth contacted at fatherlandry@
or grandchildren who have remain in the situation out of municating offending politi- and a call to conversion with catholicpreaching.com.
February 5, 2021 † 5
Editorial
What if?
Daniel Cellucci, the CEO of Catholic Leadership Institute, put out a video decades.”
late last year entitled, “What if they don’t come back?” You can watch it on Trying to move us in a positive direction, away from being live-action
YouTube or read the text of the talk on the Our Sunday Visitor website. He Eeyore characters from “Winnie the Pooh,” Cellucci challenged the listen-
doesn’t just say, “So what if they don’t?” but instead challenges his listeners ers, “But what if we chose to lead with different ‘what if’s?’ We are a people
and readers to see what they will do differently, in the face of the departure who believe that ‘nothing is impossible with God,’ who knows the victory
of so many Catholics. has been won, who knows the reason for our hope. We are a people who ask
After raising the “so what?” question, he commented, “I don’t ask that the question ‘what if?’ not with fear, but with wonder in God’s goodness and
question with a callous disregard for the consequences. The implications of power.”
perhaps 30 percent or more of our people not coming back are many and He then recalled the many clever innovations that Catholics have done
significant. It will completely change the landscape of our Church, affecting over the past year so as to be able to continue to share the faith. “Parishes
every ministry, every parish and every diocese. Most gravely, souls are at that couldn’t send an email have learned to live-stream. Grandmothers are
stake.” leading the Rosary over Zoom, and even my own mom now knows how to
Before getting to that grave matter, he discussed the other fears which take herself off mute. What does that teach us about the tremendous oppor-
leap immediately to mind — the loss of revenue, which would lead to clos- tunities before us?”
ing of churches and loss of jobs for Church employees. “Often the fear that Looking to whenever the pandemic comes to an end, Cellucci addressed
lies in the depth of this question is not primarily in our care for souls but in the desire of many to “go back to the way things were.” He cautioned against
our care for our own comfort. If we say it too loudly or too frequently, then that. “But what if things don’t go back to normal? That’s an easy one. We
we will also have to recognize that we cannot remain in the status quo and don’t want to go back to normal. Normal was a three-decade Sacramental
might be forced to change.” free-fall. Normal was 60-70 percent of those baptized no longer practicing
Cellucci then recalled that even before the present situation, Catholics the faith at all. Sure, we don’t want to wear masks everywhere, and we don’t
in the pews were expressing fears. “Beyond our personal concerns, we have want people to be afraid. But if we remember where we were, back when it
larger mission concerns as well. Prior to this pandemic, the cry I heard was ‘normal,’ was it all that God wanted it to be?”
from so many faithful parishioners was for the next generation. What if the Seems like the answer to that question has to be “no.”
Church is not here for our children and grandchildren? How will they know Cellucci ended with a challenge for us. “This is our chance to ask ‘what if’
truth? How will they come to know the Lord? Our fears are real and strong. and write a new story. What are you afraid to lose? We have to ask ‘what if’
But are they stronger than our faith and hope? Jesus told us that He will with the same confidence the early Church had. The answer to that question
build His Church and the gates of hell will not overcome it (cf. Mt 16:18). He is the same as it was then. We can’t lose everything, because for us as disci-
didn’t say how many parishes there would be or what the priesthood would ples, nothing can change our real everything, which transcends time, space
definitively look like. As far as I know, He didn’t mention Mass times or and conquers death. The most important things we have as believers remain
diocesan departments.” the same — our identity and relationship as beloved children of the Father.
Before the pandemic, our “what if’s” were often of the “how to avoid a So why not ask a different what if — what if God is calling me to something
problem” variety, as Cellucci mentioned, “to mitigate risk instead of stim- greater?”
ulating possibility. What if we offend someone? What if no one shows up? We know that every day God is doing that, and yet we’re fine with keep-
What if we close? These are all perfectly responsible, pragmatic to ask — that ing things “as is.” That’s not good for us as individuals nor as a community.
is, if we weren’t Christians.” In other words, we need to trust more in God We know that Jesus condemned the man who buried the one talent that had
than in other human beings and their whims. been entrusted to him (“You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest
Cellucci sadly stated that we Christians often think “as if we are the audi- where I did not plant and gather where I did not scatter?” [Mt 25:26]), while
ence instead of the actors” in the march of Salvation history. We “deny the He praised those who multiplied their talents. Let us beg the Holy Spirit,
incredible potential the Lord has placed within each of us. We ask ‘what if’ through the intercession of Our Lady and St. Joseph, to help us see what we
as if the victory hasn’t already been won. This is not a new challenge for us can do as individuals and as communities to live Christ’s message in new
because of COVID-19. This is a pandemic of doubt that has plagued us for ways in our world, so that people come back (or come for the first time).
OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE Daily Readings † February 13 - February 26
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6 † February 5, 2021
Lent: A time for conversion
S ince the time of
Moses, ashes have
been used as a symbol of
ashes even if you receive
them differently or even not
at all as you remain socially
er to take care of the poor
and hungry. It doesn’t need
to exclusively center on
transforming yourself from
one state of being to anoth-
er, hopefully better, state of
munity. When you combine
our loving God, our wor-
ship, rituals, prayers and
penance. They also symbol- distanced. consuming less food. You being. It can be a difficult our community of believers
ize death so they remind us Since Lent is a time of could redirect some of your concept to understand. supporting each other, we
of our own mortality. When penance, people sometimes time to reading Scripture or Think about the following have a recipe for success.
we received ashes before associate Lent with “giving volunteering for community analogy: Real conversion is com-
COVID-19 restrictions, up” something. Popular service. These noble efforts You have a house with a plex. It requires a radical
the priest or other minister, things to give up have been go a long way to softening garage. You wish you had a transformation touching all
using their thumb, signed sweets or alcohol. We think our hard hearts. big family room so you de- the dimensions of the hu-
your forehead with the sign we’re making a sacrifice. Almsgiving is more than cide to convert your garage man being, “spirit, soul, and
of the cross and said, ”Re- “I am going to make a real writing a check to a charity. into a family room. You go body.” All that is good and
member! You are dust and sacrifice this Lent!” The While financial support is through a decision making bad in you is from the heart.
to dust you shall return.” word “sacrifice” means important, so is the giving process weighing the pros The hardened heart needs
With our death comes eter- to make something holy. of our time and talent. We and cons. On the good to be broken because real
nal life, so the ashes remind Instead of giving side will come the conversion needs to start
us that we need to be pre- up things like warm and hos- with the heart. Ezechiel
pared when we stand before chocolate during pitable gathering described in beautiful and
God on judgment day. We Lent, perhaps we place for friends poetic terms the conversion
are reminded that we must should be giving and family to enjoy that would come about as
die to sin so we can rise to up the things we companionship we build the New Kingdom
a new life in Christ through do that harden our and entertain- of God on Earth: “I will give
His cross and Resurrection. hearts. A great list ment. On the bad them a new heart, and put
Lent prepares us to joyfully of things to give side, the cars are a new Spirit within them;
enter the Easter Season. up can be found now sitting out- I will remove the heart of
Ash Wednesday marks by examining our own could do things like pro- side in the hostile weather. stone from their bodies
the start of our Lenten conscience: greed, selfish- viding companionship by You make the decision to and give them a heart of
journey. Being marked ness, anger, jealousy, hatred, visiting a nursing home compromise the well-be- flesh” (Ez 11:19). (Modified
with ashes reminds us that intolerance. We can make or providing babysitting ing of the cars in favor of combination of NRSV and
we are human and sinful. a conscious effort to trans- services to a single parent the benefits of the people. NABRE translations).
That doesn’t mean we are form our actions into holy who deserves a night out. The house will never be the As we enter the season
not holy. It means we need actions such as compassion, It can also involve stew- same again. It’s hard to go of Lent, let us try to really
improvement. We reflect on patience, acceptance and ardship that could include forward with your plans. make a difference and “give
our lives and ask for God to forgiveness. What good is protecting and safeguarding It’s even harder to go back up hardness of heart” for
help us change our hearts. giving up something for the environment and other to the old way after you’re Lent. Give up hatred and
We ask for transformation - Lent if nothing was really resources abundantly given done. But the benefits of the intolerance. Give up indif-
to cast aside our sinful ways made holy through our to us by God. family room are everlasting ference. Give up impatience.
and prepare to celebrate sacrifice? Lent is our primary and good. Your future is Give up negativity and
Easter with the joyfulness of Lent is a time for journey that brings us to the better because of your work. selfishness. Give up your old
a fresh, clean heart. Prayer, Fasting and Alms- joy of Easter, the pinnacle Transforming your ways. Embrace the ways of
This year Ash Wednes- giving. celebration of the Church house is very similar to Jesus and make them per-
day services will be very Jesus prayed everywhere year. Easter marks Christ’s transforming your life. The manent and everlasting.
different because of and always. Do we dedicate Resurrection and our Re- transformation process will May Christ, the Light of
COVID-19. There will a part of our lives to pray? demption. Our focus on Lent convert your life from one the World, shine His light
likely be only one service. Going off to a quiet place, as is to die in our old ways and state to another. The old, through you to others as
The remembrance phrase Jesus did in the desert, is a make room for the new ways unsuccessful activities like you strive to journey with
will be spoken once over great way to connect to God illuminated by the Light of giving up chocolate for Lent Him and live the Gospel
everyone and not individu- and experience God’s pres- Christ and our new life filled are token gestures with usu- this Lenten season.
ally. The priests or ministers ence. Even in the stillness with the love of God. ally little impact and hardly Rick Swenton is a
will not be placing ashes on we can experience God. It How do we discern our life-changing. If you decide parishioner at St. Pius the
your forehead with their takes so little effort and only path to a greater fullness in to make the hard decision Tenth Church in South
thumbs because of health requires a desire to clear Christ? to strive for real conversion, Yarmouth and is a member
concerns. The exact method our minds and hearts and Lent is the ideal time your life will be very differ- of the choir and a cantor.
for distribution of ashes has be open to God’s love. Our to consider dealing with a ent. He has a certificate in Lay
not been determined yet. society has forgotten how to most important Christian Conversion can be hard. Ministry from the Archdi-
The method will likely vary listen. We’re so busy pro- concept: conversion. Con- But no matter who you are, ocese of Hartford with a
by diocese. Many of us may moting our own personal version is a Spiritual en- what you’ve done or what focus on Liturgy and Music.
not be able to attend the agendas. Christ has a lot to lightenment causing a per- you have become, anyone He is a published Church
service and may experience say to us in the stillness if we son to lead a new life that can do it. It is easier to music composer. He resides
it remotely. Please consid- would only pause to listen. results in a transformation. achieve conversion with the with his wife, Gail, in South
er the powerful symbol of Fasting is our remind- Conversion is the process of help of the Christian com- Dennis.
February 5, 2021 † 7
8 † February 5, 2021
FACE to participate in the 49th ASICS
Falmouth Road Race August 2021
FALMOUTH — The vorite that attracts thou- unteer, Cassandra Robin,
Foundation to Advance sands of elite runners and participated in the first
Catholic Education (FACE) recreational runners from Falmouth Road Race At-
is excited to announce Home Edition and raised
it will participate in the $3,660 for FACE!
ASICS 2021 Falmouth If you are interested in
Road Race. FACE will be participating and would
part of the Numbers for like more information,
Non-Profits Program with please contact Jane
six entries where partici- Robin at jrobin@
pants will raise funds for catholicfoundationsema.
FACE student scholarships. org or call 508-380-7521.
Each year runners
enjoy the beautiful scenic
local areas as well as from
around the world visiting
FACE provides criti-
cal scholarship support to
Visit the Diocese of
views along the seven-mile
seaside course from
the Cape Cod Town of
Falmouth, which is part of
children in need of finan-
cial assistance to attend Fall River website at:
Woods Hole to Falmouth
Heights. The race is a fa-
the Diocese of Fall River.
Last year, FACE vol-
Catholic schools of the
Diocese of Fall River. fallriverdiocese.org
Holy Family Parish
370 Middleboro Avenue
East Taunton
Register for Mass attendance online at
hfparish.net and click on the ‘Sign up’ icon
Weeknight Masses at Parish Center
(438 Middleboro Ave.) at a variety of times,
including Saturdays at 7 p.m.
Monday to Saturday 8 a.m. at the church
February 5, 2021 † 9
Diocesan Faith Formation Office offers guides
and activities to celebrate the Year of St. Joseph
By David G. Carvalho at 7 p.m. for the Solemnity for the diocese. also authored several prayer band Raymond, and their
Diocesan Faith Formation of St. Joseph, Husband of Dr. Miravalle earned journals and bestselling four young children live in
Senior Director the Blessed Virgin Mary. his Sacred Theological Catholic children’s books. Georgia.
dcarvalho@dioc-fr.org
The Mass will also be live- Doctorate at the Pontifical She is also the part-time For more information,
FALL RIVER — On streamed. Pre-registration University of St. Thomas communication manager for or to register for
Dec. 8, 2020 Pope Francis for in-person will be re- Aquinas in Rome. He holds the national evangelization this free event, visit
announced a Year to St. quired. the St. John Paul II Chair apostolate, Catholics Come fallriverfaithformation.
Joseph. As a diocese, we Mass for Feast of St. Joseph of Mariology at Franciscan Home. Warner, her hus- org/stjoseph.
will be partaking in this the Worker University of Steubenville,
year through opportunities Bishop Edgar M. da where he has been teaching
for prayer and formation, Cunha, S.D.V., will celebrate since 1986. Dr. Miravalle
including the 33-day Conse- Mass at the Cathedral of St. is the founder and senior
cration to St. Joseph con- Mary of the Assumption in editor of “Ecce Mater Tua,”
cluding on May 1, the Feast Fall River on May 1 at 10 an international journal
of St. Joseph the Worker. a.m. for the Feast of St. Jo- of Mariology research and
For more information seph the Worker. The Mass president of the Interna-
and to register for free events will also be live-streamed. tional Marian Association.
during this year, visit or Pre-registration for in-per- Well known throughout the
fallriverfaithformation.org/ son will be required. world for his lectures on
stjoseph. Holy Hour for the Year of Mariology, Dr. Miravalle has
Living the Year of St. Jo- St. Joseph addressed several episcopal
seph Talk On Tuesday, June 8 conferences, including those
On Tuesday, March 2 at 7 at 6 p.m. (the Tuesday of South India, Nigeria,
p.m., Father Donald Callo- after the Solemnity of Venezuela, and Costa Rica.
way, MIC, author of the book Corpus Christi), Father Dr. Miravalle has spoken
“Consecration to St. Joseph: Jay Mello, pastor of St. at numerous international
The Wonders of Our Spiri- Michael and St. Joseph conferences and has ap-
tual Father,” will be having parishes, will lead a Holy peared on EWTN, National
a virtual talk for the diocese Hour at St. Joseph Parish Public Radio, and the BBC.
as a prequel to the consecra- (1335 North Main Street, For more information, or
tion to St. Joseph, which will Fall River). Confession to register for this free event,
begin on March 30. will be available. RSVP at visit fallriverfaithformation.
Father Calloway, a fallriverfaithformation.org/ org/stjoseph.
prominent Marian priest, stjoseph. Strategies for Becoming
exhibits an unmistakable Holy Hour for the Family Stronger Spiritual Leaders
zeal for the priesthood and On Monday, July 12 of Your Family Talk
devotion to Our Lady. He at 7 p.m. (the Feast of St. On Tuesday, October
is a well-known conference Louis and Zelie), Father 5 at 7 p.m., Katie Warner,
speaker on Divine Mer- Richard Wilson, pastor of author of the book, “Head &
cy and the Blessed Virgin Holy Family Parish, will Heart: Becoming Spiritual
Mary. He speaks passionate- lead a Holy Hour at the Leaders for Your Family,”
ly about these topics in his Holy Family Parish Center will be having a virtual talk
moving conversion story. (370 Middleboro Avenue, for the diocese.
For more information, or East Taunton). Confession Warner is a Catholic
to register for this free event, will be available. RSVP at wife, home-schooling mom,
visit bit.ly/stjoseph2021 or fallriverfaithformation.org/ and author who loves cre-
fallriverfaithformation.org/ stjoseph. ating and sharing resources
stjoseph. Meet Your Spiritual Father for Catholic families. War-
Mass for Solemnity of Talk ner received her graduate
St. Joseph On Saturday, August 21 degree in theology from the
Bishop Edgar M. da at 1 p.m., Dr. Mark Miraval- Augustine Institute and is a
Cunha, S.D.V., will celebrate le, author of the book, “Meet Catholic speaker, an EWTN
Mass at the Cathedral of St. Your Spiritual Father: An TV segment host, and a cor-
Mary of the Assumption Introduction to St. Joseph,” respondent for the National
in Fall River on March 19 will be having a virtual talk Catholic Register. Warner has
10 † February 5, 2021Prayers and fund-raisers support injured athlete students and staff are praying and
doing what they can.
The New England Patriots owner,
Robert Kraft, and the Providence
continued from page one
“I’ve heard from all the Catholic Bruins each donated $25,000. At
but hearts were heavy. Following The Anchor. “Within 15 minutes of
high schools in the diocese, many press time, the total was at more
the game, the players from Pope us posting to families and alumni,
grammar schools, Bishop da Cunha than $120,000.
Francis and Feehan gathered at Mercy Sister Sheila Harrington,
and Chancellor Kevin Kiley; all The Boston Bruins and the
center-ice on one knee, joined in sister of Feehan mainstay, the late
supporting A.J., his family and the Boston Bruins Foundation pledged
prayer for their fallen fellow athlete. Sister Pat Harrington, advised us
Feehan family. a minimum of $100,000 to help the
Pope Francis High School is selling that A.J.’s name was in the prayer
“Only in a Catholic school family. At the January 28 game be-
shamrocks with A.J.’s #10 on them list at the House of Mercy on Bag-
can students, faculty, administra- tween the Bruins and the Pittsburgh
to help raise funds. got Street, in Dublin, Ireland.
tion and staff openly express their Penguins at Boston Garden, Bruins’
The shock waves from the “So many other alumni have ex-
support and concern with prayer, alternate captain, Brad Marchand,
catastrophic event have traveled tended support, as have others not
reaching out to Jesus Christ. That is hung A.J.’s Feehan No. 10 jersey on
far. A.J. and the Quetta family face in the immediate Feehan family.”
a strong Celebrate Catholic Schools the glass behind the bench during
a long road ahead of them, as does With the injury happening
Week message.” warm-ups.
the Feehan community, the hockey on the cusp of Celebrate Catholic
On January 28, Sullivan was The Bruins also taped their pre-
community, and frankly, anyone Schools Week, Sullivan said the
invited to speak on the Greg Hill game warm-up sticks with Feehan
with heart. response at the school has been a
Morning show on radio station colors, and a future Bruins 50/50
“The faculty and students are prime example of what Catholic
WEEI out of Boston. That day, the raffle proceed will go to A.J.’s recov-
shaken by A.J.’s injury,” said Sulli- schools are all about. “This is Cath-
Greg Hill Foundation held a fund- ery efforts.
van. “We have to be there for each olic education in action. We have a
raiser for the Quetta Family, with The team presented the game
other. We can’t take care of every- shared mission to be there for those
hundreds of listeners responding. 8 Continued on page 12
thing. The doctors will take care of in need, no matter what the need,
A.J. We will be there for each other and that’s never been more evident
as a Feehan community.” than through the reactions,” he said.
The school gathered for a prayer “If not for COVID-19 restrictions,
service for A.J. on Friday, January I know there would have been a
29. “The outpouring of support huge gathering of students the next
has been incredible,” Sullivan told day for a candle-light vigil. But the
February 5, 2021 † 118 Continued from page 11 Gina Simoneau, Feehan’s a helmet sticker honoring
puck to the Feehan family director of Strategic Com- A.J.. The game was live-
after the game. munications told The An- streamed on TW @Feehan-
Elysa Quetta, A.J.’s sister, chor. “An ‘AJ’s Army’ banner Hockey.”
initiated a GoFundMe page hung behind the Feehan A.J.’s sisters, Elysa and
and at press time the dona- bench, and all players had 8 Continued from page 14
tions topped $700,000 with
more than 10,000 donors.
The Feehan Shamrocks
resumed playing, following
a team meeting where all
the players agreed it was
what A.J. would want.
The game took place
January 29 in Attleboro
between Bishop Feehan and
Austin Prep. “Before the
Captains from the Feehan and Austin Prep hockey teams
game, both teams joined at
center ice to pray for A.J.,” met at center ice before a January 29 game, to express
support for A.J. Quetta. (Photo courtesy of Feehan)
12 † February 5, 2021Baring arms for the cause
C onfucius, the
great Chinese
philosopher, is credited
or needle in the arm
containing the COVID
vaccine. Of course, they
and needle him about the
Chiefs’ chances against
Tom Brady in the upcom-
go,” two lovely young
nurses, Kerry and Holly,
administered the vaccine.
their arms for the cause.
For myself it was an
overall pleasant experi-
with many witty sayings, might like a shot of bran- ing Super Bowl. I resisted I hardly felt the prick of ence and, on returning
most of which I dare not dy first. Lol. the temptation because the syringe needle when to my hermitage, I had
quote here, but this one So it was that yester- Sister Barbara Jean was it was my turn to bare my usual repast, then did
I can. It goes, “Man who day, January 25, a my arm. A lovely my customary medita-
wears short sleeved shirt cavalcade of vehi- young nurse has tion on the horizontal.
supports right to bare cles drove up the that effect on me. Some people call it siesta.
arms.” He has also been driveway of Bish- Then it was time It has been written that,
quoted as saying, “He op Home complex to move down the “He who sleeps on a bed
who sits on needle gets where our Fran- circle for a pause of nails is a holy man.”
the point.” Now I believe ciscan Sisters’ of 15 minutes of Well, I guess that I’m not
that most people would house stands. I recovery. Sister yet ready for that degree
agree that getting a needle call it the Manor Alicia was there of holiness because my
in the seat would not be House. I myself doing guard duty in my at the head of the line to bed is very comfortable,
something to look for- joined the cavalcade at vicinity and motioned me make sure that we did not though narrow, and I
ward to, unless absolutely about 11:35 a.m. right to move on to the place of jump the gun and leave can now rest up until the
necessary. However, there back of the now famil- “execution.” It was time prematurely. She and next time that I am called
are millions of people on iar red truck, driven by to prepare for the sting of Sister Barbara Jean were upon to bare my arm for
our earth today who are Marco who happens to be the needle which would like sentries at their posts. the cause. Aloha.
looking forward to bar- Kalaupapa’s head cheer- administer the long antic- After a break for lunch, Anchor columnist
ing their arms and invit- leader for the Kansas ipated COVID vaccine. the operation continued Father Killilea is pastor
ing some lovely young City Chiefs. I would have As the procession of into the afternoon until of St. Francis Church in
nurse to give them a shot loved to get out of my van vehicles did a “stop and all had offered to bare Kalaupapa, Hawaii.
February 5, 2021 † 13F ocus on C hurch Y outh
Don’t, don’t … Do!
W ell next week is
the beginning of
Lent! Hard to believe. And
much — like vegetables. Of
course, there was little value
in giving up what I didn’t
way of our relationship with
God and to give up those
things that so often take
it rewarding to look at each
of the items and if they
applied to me, to resolve
hatred — return good for
evil. Do give up negativism
— be positive. Do give up
Lent always brings to mind like or want! Generally, over our lives. The less stuff that this Lent I would bring anger — be more patient.
what I should give up for when I chose to give about a change Do give up pettiness — be-
Lent. up the things I liked, I in myself by come mature. Do give up
I’ve never been one who wasn’t successful a lot focusing on the gloom — enjoy the beauty
is good at giving things up. of the time. I was very positive things I that is all around you. Do
I truly try to be a “giver” in good at rationalizing could do to make give up jealousy — pray for
all that I do, but I like my why I could have that more room for trust. Do give up gossip-
toys and other distractions. candy bar just this God, myself and ing — control your tongue.
Over the years when Lent one time — perhaps others. To take Do give up sin — turn to
came along, I’d try to figure as a reward for going some time to tidy virtue. Do give up putting
out what to give up as the two days without one. up and dust off people in categories. Do
good Sisters taught us in I guess I kind of lost the in our lives, the more room my very soul. remember that we are all
school. I always thought meaning of Lent. It is funny there is for God, yourself Perhaps you may find it made in the image and like-
sweets, or candy, or televi- how my brain works. My and for others. valuable to look at the list ness of God our Father. Do
sion or movies or some oth- wife would say it’s scary I believe that in my of things that you might give up giving up — hang
er material item that I liked, how my brain works! case, perhaps, I chose the want to give up this Lent by in there!
but I didn’t like the idea of In any case, there are wrong things to give up. focusing on the positive. So Of course, now that
losing those things. I don’t reasons why we traditional- Perhaps, I needed to look at instead of DON’T, we can I’ve completed this inner
know about you, but I was ly give up stuff during Lent. giving up more than mate- think DO. Spend a moment self-examination, it just
more inclined to give up What we give up should rial items, perhaps I needed on each of these actions and may have been easier to just
things that I didn’t like as really be something we to look inside (not an easy really give some thought give up those candy bars! I
like, or like to do or that we thing to do) and give up and prayer on whether it guess I’ll just have to give
find pleasure in. Through those things that truly get applies to you and how you up on that slimmer waist-
this sacrifice we can learn in the way of my relation- might change the focus to line and work on beefing up
self-control, tell ourselves ship with God and with the more positive. my soul this Lent!
“no” once in a while (what a others. Looking inside is Do give up complain- Anchor columnist
novel idea!) and it helps us not always fun or easy. But ing — focus on gratitude. Frank Lucca is a deacon in
identify with the sufferings this year that is my intent. Do give up pessimism — the Diocese of Fall Riv-
of Christ. Lent gives us that Searching though my become an optimist. Do er assigned to St. Mary’s
opportunity to discover homily notes, I came across give up harsh judgments Parish in Dartmouth and a
those things that get in the a Lenten reflection. I do — think kindly thoughts. campus minister at UMass
not recall the author but it Do give up worry — trust Dartmouth. He is married
is not me. In the reflection Divine Providence. Do to his wife of 43 years,
it lists those things that we give up discouragement Kristine, and the father of
should “give up.” I read this — be full of hope. Do give two daughters and their
reflection as a sort of inter- up bitterness — turn to husbands, and five grand-
nal examination and found forgiveness. Do give up sons! So blessed!
8 Continued from page 12 “When people ask what over. “The last 40 hours has
Ella, spoke to both teams they can do to help A.J. and seemed like two months.
before the game, expressing his family, my first response We are filled with sadness
the family’s thanks for the it: Pray!,” Sullivan told The and gravely concerned,
outpouring of support and Anchor. “So much prayer is but prayer is so powerful.”
prayers. needed in addition to the And prayer is what A.J.,
According to the Feehan financial support that is the Quetta Family, and the
website, “A.J. was watching going to be needed to help Feehan family could use in
the live-stream with Mrs. A.J. and his family move abundance.
Quetta, texting his reactions forward.” To help with A.J.’s
throughout the game. From Several times, when medical treatment and
the texts it was clear that Sullivan was talking to The recovery, visit the family’s
A.J. supported his team- Anchor, he choked up when GoFundMe page at https://
mates and, well, still hates mentioning the support and gofund.me/5c4593a5.
to lose.” reactions of people from all And pray.
14 † February 5, 2021War of another kind: The DNA of family life
D espite the ex-
istential body
blows thrown at the
key function is to con-
trol growth. The genetic
material contained within
previous generations of
cells is inextricably tied
both to the survival and
Like the biological
cell, the strength of the
nuclear family, as the
maintain its integral task,
or whether the Christian
inheritance it relies on
family in recent decades, is a repository Church understands for strength and purpose
there is a template that of hereditary it, depends on its will have to do battle with
might help to push back information that various ingenious a pernicious mutation.
against the present confu- serves to orga- elements. Interesting- Gene therapy, despite its
sion. In Biology 101, we nize how the cell ly, while both mem- effectiveness when treat-
learned that at the center reproduces itself, branes are required ing some diseases, is po-
of every plant or animal meaning that the for the good of the tentially disastrous when
cell is a nucleus, whose inheritance from cell, one remark- applied to the healthy
able feature is their parts of cells. The Cate-
future of a particular liv- asymmetry. Research has
Diocese of Fall River TV Mass ing thing. shown that they cannot
chism reminds us: “The
family is the community
on the Portuguese Channel The nucleus is sur- be reversed; neither can in which, from childhood,
rounded by two mem- there be two inner mem-
Sunday, February 7 at 7 p.m. branes — an inner and an branes or two outer, for
one can learn moral
values, begin to honor
Broadcast from St. Francis Xavier outer — which comprise each has a distinct, com- God, and make good
Church in East Providence the nuclear envelope. Not plementary, and irre- use of freedom” (CCC,
only is this envelope es- placeable role. 2207). With all the au-
sential to maintaining the Moreover, the mem- dacity of those who built
Diocese of Fall River TV Mass shape of the nucleus, but
it contains pores which
branes’ task of filtering
incoming material and fa-
the tower of Babel, tin-
kering with the mission
on the Portuguese Channel allow critical substances cilitating outgoing mate- of the family — whether
Sunday, February 14 at 7 p.m. to enter and exit, without rial is integral to survival its construction or what
which the cell would die. and growth, and mirrors is forced into its inner
Broadcast from Santo Church It is fascinating to see the way that the family sanctum — threatens its
in Fall River how, on the most subsid- must interact with the very ability to survive.
iary level, tremendously outer world. Each filter’s Altering its DNA can only
complex activities take criterion is to distinguish undermine its essential
Diocese of Fall River TV Mass place which are ordered
not only to the very exis-
between what nourishes
the cell and the toxins
moral framework; and
vice versa, because in-
on WLNE Channel 6 tence of living things, but that would destroy it. In hibiting the benefits that
the flourishing of their this regard, the Catechism
Sunday, February 7 at 11:00 a.m. species. quotes from Gaudium et
healthy families offer to
society will diminish the
It requires no great Spes: “The importance surrounding culture well
leap to see how the of the family for the life into the future. There is
Celebrant is Father Thomas C. Church relates this bi- and well-being of society already a quiet nuclear
Lopes, retired priest of the Fall ological phenomenon entails a particular re- war simmering — one
River Diocese. to the most basic family sponsibility for society to effectively below the
structure. Indeed, the Cat- support and strengthen radar of any standing
echism notes, “The fam- Marriage and the family. army. Parents everywhere
ily is the original cell of Civil authority should need to be vigilant, and
social life. It is the natural consider it a grave duty safeguard that which has
society in which husband ‘to acknowledge the true
Sunday, February 14 at 11:00 a.m. been entrusted to them so
and wife are called to give nature of Marriage and that coming generations
themselves in love and in the family, to protect and may benefit by the stable
the gift of life. Author- foster them, to safeguard truths on which nature
ity, stability, and a life public morality, and pro- and grace depend.
Celebrant is Father Robert
A. Oliveira, Pastor of Holy of relationships within mote domestic prosperi- Anchor columnist
Trinity Parish in Fall River. the family constitute the ty’” (CCC, 2210). Genevieve Kineke is the
foundations for freedom, Thus, it should be- author of “The Authentic
security, and fraternity come clear in coming Catholic Woman.” She
within society” (CCC, months whether the blogs at feminine-genius.
2207). family will be allowed to typepad.com.
February 5, 2021 † 15You can also read
