January 1, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, joins his brother Bishops in the National Conference of Catholic Bishops in releasing a statement tomorrow entitled "Because God Loves You." "Because God Loves You" addresses Catholics, stating "New possibilities lie before you - before all of us - at the start of the third Christian millennium. This is a time to look at the world and decide how to better serve your neighbor." The National Conference of Catholic Bishops will publicize this message through a national media campaign, including full page advertisements in newspapers such as The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Washington Post and Chicago Tribune.
Cardinal Bevilacqua will be available to the media to discuss "Because God Loves You" as well as the Great Jubilee Year 2000
Contact
Catherine Rossi
Director of Communications
215-587-3747
January 3, 2000
Every year since 1994, the Catholic Newman Center of West Chester University sends eight students to Cuautepec, Mexico over the winter break-- not for fun, but for service. Living with host families in Cuautepec for nine days, these students become immersed in Mexican culture and the life of this poor, mountainside community of a half million people. The students and their families will gather for a commissioning service and farewell dinner on
Wednesday, January 5, 2000
7:00 p.m.
The Newman Center
West Chester University
West Chester, PA
Under the direction of the local pastor, the students spend some of their days performing manual labor, while other days are spent visiting important cultural sites. In addition, the eight students bring sixteen suitcases filled with clothing, shoes, toys, and books donated by members of the West Chester community. This represents a sacrifice on the students' part, since they can only bring for themselves what they can carry on their backs.
The students will depart for Mexico on January 6th and return on January 14th, 2000. The purpose of the trip goes beyond work projects and educational enrichment. It is about encountering Jesus Christ in the faces and lives of people from a different culture, and discovering riches abounding in apparent poverty.
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Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
January 3, 2000
In a letter dated December 10, 1999 sent to Reverend Monsignor James T. McDonough, Regional Vicar for Chester County, Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, accepted the Cluster Pastoral Plan for Cluster 53, and commended the pastors and all who served on the Cluster Pastoral Planning Committee.
The four parishes of Cluster 53 are:
Contact
John Miller
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
January 4, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will preside at the Archdiocese of Philadelphia's 17th annual Interfaith Commemorative Prayer Service in honor of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Contact
John Miller
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
January 5, 2000
The Villanova women's varsity basketball team will conduct a clinic for disabled young people at Don Guanella School on January 6, 2000. Don Guanella is an Archdiocese of Philadelphia school in Springfield, Delaware County for developmentally disabled youths ranging in age from six to 21. Residents of Divine Providence Village will also attend. Divine Providence is an Archdiocese of Philadelphia facility for developmentally disabled girls and women.
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Assistant
215-587-3747
January 10, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, expresses his sadness at the closure of two parish elementary schools. St. Michael Parish Elementary School, located at 1429 N. 2nd Street in North Philadelphia, will close in June of 2000. Our Lady of Loreto Parish Elementary School, located at 2412 S. 62nd Street in Southwest Philadelphia, also will close in June of 2000 as a result of a Plan recommended by a special Tri-Parish Planning Committee, representing Our Lady of Loreto, St. Mary of Czestochowa and St. Barnabas Parishes, and accepted by Cardinal Bevilacqua in December, 1999.
"I am keenly aware that changing demographics within our city and in our suburbs are challenging us to collaborate in new and different ways and to restructure some of our parish communities," said Cardinal Bevilacqua. "While I am deeply saddened and reluctant to close any parish or Catholic school, I accepted the recommendations presented to me because I believe that those who carefully studied each parish and school situation had in mind the best interests of students, their parents, parishioners and the greater church community. We must continue to look at the best way to utilize our resources and strengthen our school and faith communities. I thank the pastor and parishioners of St. Michael Parish as well as the priests and lay members of the Tri-Parish Planning Committee of Cluster 33 who spent many hours analyzing factual and financial data in order to prayerfully discern the best long term course of action. They had to make very difficult decisions."
The Pastor of St. Michael Parish, Father John Harkins, announced the closure to the parish community at Sunday masses yesterday and to the school community today.
The Pastor of Our Lady of Loreto Parish, Father Vito Carbone, and the Pastor of twinned parishes, St. Mary of Czestochowa and St. Barnabas, Monsignor Bernard Herron, announced parish re-structuring at Sunday masses yesterday. Father Carbone informed his school community today.
As part of the Tri-Parish Plan, Our Lady of Loreto and St. Mary of Czestochowa will no longer stand as parishes as of July 1, 2000. There will be one parish, St. Barnabas, with additional worship sites at Our Lady of Loreto and St. Mary of Czestochowa. A "worship site" is an additional sacred building (church) of the parish used for Sunday mass and where funeral masses could also be permitted.
Neighboring Catholic schools, including St. Boniface, St. Peter, Holy Name and St. Laurentius, will accept students from St. Michael. Current students (145) enrolled in Our Lady of Loreto will have the opportunity to attend St. Barnabas Catholic School.
No decisions have been made regarding the future of the school buildings of St. Michael and Our Lady of Loreto.
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Contact
Catherine Rossi
Director of Communications
215-587-3747
January 10, 2000
In a letter dated December 10,1999, sent to Rev. Msgr. John T. Conway, Regional Vicar for Philadelphia South, Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, accepted the Cluster Pastoral Plan for Cluster 32, and commended the pastors and all who served on the Cluster Pastoral Planning Committee.
The six parishes of Cluster 32 are:
Epiphany of Our Lord
Holy Spirit
St. Monica
Our Lady of Mount Carmel
St. Richard
Stella Maris
Cluster 32's plan centers on these objectives:
1) To lead youth to Christ. This will be accomplished by forming an ad hoc committee that will study the feasibility of hiring a Youth Coordinator who will motivate young people to become active in their faith communities and take responsibility for the future of the Catholic Church in the area.
2) To reach out with helping hands. This will be accomplished by establishing a cluster coordinating committee to explore social service programs (for example, the elderly, single parents, substance abuse).
3) To become disciples in mission. This will be accomplished by developing a Cluster-wide plan to revitalize/evangelize the faith of our people. The parishes of the Cluster will commit to programs for evangelization that have been created by the Paulist Fathers and are endorsed by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.
4) To never stop learning. This will be accomplished by strengthening and expanding existing Religious Education Programs for adults. Cluster-wide Religious Education Programs will be centralized and rotated. This includes programs such as Liturgical Ministries, Introduction to Parish Life and Bible Study Program.
5) To reallocate the priests for a changing Church. This will be accomplished by developing a plan to fairly deal with the decrease of two priests in the Cluster as required by the Archdiocese. Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish will be reduced by one parish priest. Epiphany of Our Lord Parish will be reduced by one parish priest. Pastors of the parishes of the Cluster will meet to make provisions to assist the two affected parishes in areas of Pastoral Care.
6) To call ministers for a changing Church. This will be accomplished by promoting vocations on a Cluster level. Petitions for religious vocations will be included as part of the General Intercessions on a permanent basis. All parish functions will begin with a prayer for vocations. Cluster-wide vocation days/retreats will be held.
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Editor's Note: Attached, please find a background sheet explaining Cluster Pastoral Planning, as well as a summary of the Cluster 32 plan. Media inquiries should be directed to Rev. Msgr. John T. Conway at 215-476-7484.
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Assistant
215-587-3747
January 12, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, has written letters to federal lawmakers and the National Institutes for Health asking them not to approve guidelines that would legalize embryo stem cell research. On December 1, 1999, the National Institutes for Health published draft guidelines that would legalize embryo stem cell research. The public has until January 31, 2000, to submit written comments. The National Institutes for Health will then finalize its guidelines. Congress has the authority to intervene before the guidelines become finalized. Cardinal Bevilacqua sent letters to National Institutes of Health Director Dr. Harold Varmus, United States Senators Arlen Specter and Rick Santorum and the nine United States Representatives that represent different areas of the Archdiocese.
"These guidelines disregard the sanctity of life by sanctioning the killing of unborn human embryos to obtain stem cells for research," wrote Cardinal Bevilacqua. "This assault on life must not happen. Scientific research should be guided by a fundamental moral norm: respect for the dignity of life from conception (fertilization) to natural death."
Cardinal Bevilacqua supports adult stem cell research, but opposes the killing of unborn embryos for stem cell research. In his letters to the lawmakers and the National Institutes for Health, Cardinal Bevilacqua pointed out that "research has demonstrated that adults stem cells can be as effective, or even more effective than, embryo stem cells because adult stem cells do not carry the risk of rejection."
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Contact
Cathy Rossi
Director
215-587-3747
January 14, 2000
Hundreds of teenage volunteers, members of the Community Service Corps of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, will volunteer their services on
MONDAY, JANUARY 17, 2000
REV. DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY OF SERVICE
Some of the locations are:
St. Vincent's Home for Children, 7201 Minor St. (on the Delaware River), Philadelphia
9:30 a.m. - 12 noon - 25 students from Fr. Judge, St. Hubert and Lincoln High Schools will do arts and crafts, and athletic activities with the children
Habitat for Humanity, 1829 N. 19th Street, Philadelphia
10:00 a.m. - 12 noon - 25 students from St. Joseph's Prep School will be working on the Habitat for Humanity block in North Philadelphia
Community Service Corps Headquarters, 1213 Clover Street, Philadelphia
10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. - 25 students from St. John Neumann, Little Flower, Haverford and Masterman High Schools will be doing a building clean-up
Nazareth Hospital, 2601 Holme Avenue (Roosevelt Blvd. & Pennypack Circle), Philadelphia
9:30 a.m. - 12 noon - 20 students from Fr. Judge High School and St. Hubert High School will visit the elderly.
St. Joseph's Hospital, Girard Avenue between 16th and 17th Sts. Philadelphia
10 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. - 5 students from Little Flower High School will visit the elderly
St. Francis Inn, 2441 Kensington Avenue, Philadelphia
12 Noon - 2:00 p.m. - 25 students from Fr. Judge, St. Hubert and Lincoln High Schools will be preparing sandwiches for the needy
Sunday Breakfast Association, 13th and Vine Streets, Philadelphia
10:00 a.m. - 12 noon - students from Roman Catholic High School will be helping out at the men's shelter
Camilla Hall, Immaculata College, Immaculata, PA
11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. - 30 students from St. Maria Goretti High School will be visiting elderly nuns
St. John's Hospice, 1221 Race Street, Philadelphia
10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. - 10 students from Little Flower High School will be serving lunch
St. Mary's Manor, 700 Lansdale Ave., Lansdale, Pa.
10:00 a.m. - 12 noon - 40 students from Lansdale Catholic will be organizing group activities for elderly residents
Assisi House, 600 Red Hill Road, Aston, PA
10:00 a.m. - 12 noon - 40 students from Hallahan High School will be visiting with elderly residents
Meals on Wheels, 630 E. Cathedral Road, Philadelphia
10:00 a.m. - 12 noon - 5 students from Hallahan High School will be helping to deliver meals
St. Lucy's Day School for Children with Visual Impairments - 130 Hampden Road, Upper Darby
10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. - 10 students from Archbishop Prendergast High School will be helping with the children
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Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
January 14, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will discuss pain and prejudice on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day during the broadcast of his weekly call-in radio show, Live with Cardinal Bevilacqua.
Contact
Cathy Rossi
Director
215-587-3747
January 19, 2000
On December 30, 1999, Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua received the Vatican decrees which grant permission for the establishment of the Theological Institute at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary and entitle the Institute to award Pontifical degrees. The decision by the Vatican Congregation for Catholic Education gives authority for the Theological Institute located at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary in Wynnewood, to award the Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology to its students who successfully complete the Institute's course of studies.
Archbishop Gabriel Montalvo, the Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, conveyed the official decrees to Cardinal Bevilacqua which established the autonomous Theological Institute and which approved the statutes of the Institute for a 5-year experimental period. In addition, the Vatican Congregation appointed Monsignor Michael F. Burbidge as President of the Institute, who will also continue to serve as Rector of St. Charles Seminary.
"Please accept my heartfelt congratulations for this achievement which certainly constitutes a great witness to the fact that the living Truth is hard at work among you all, inspiring your faith ever more fully to the loving search of understanding," wrote Archbishop Montalvo. "Here, most certainly is an eloquent sign 'ex corde Ecclesiae' that the Spirit is indeed speaking efficaciously to the Church in Philadelphia."
The Theological Institute is a distinct educational entity which will offer comprehensive, intensive theological studies at Saint Charles Seminary in cooperation with several of the programs and departments of the Seminary. The Theological Institute will award the Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology ("S.T.B.") to students who successfully complete 118 graduate level credits under the direction of the Pontifical Faculty.
"For more than seven years, it has been my primary interest to enhance the programs of Saint Charles Seminary by establishing a Pontifical Faculty with the authority from the Congregation for Catholic Education to confer Pontifical Degrees," said Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua. "I am gratified by the decision of the Congregation to approve the application of Saint Charles Seminary to grant Pontifical Degrees and to establish the Theological Institute."
The Theological Institute is charged with cultivating and promoting knowledge of Christian revelation through scientific research and systematically teaching these truths to its students. In addition, its purpose is to train students to reach a high level of qualification in Catholic theology with the intellectual background necessary to carry out effectively their numerous and diverse ministries.
"On behalf of the Seminary community I express my deepest gratitude to the Vatican Congregation for Catholic Education for the establishment of the Theological Institute and for the ever present leadership and support of Cardinal Bevilacqua," said Monsignor Burbidge.
The S.T.B. program will compliment the existing Program for Priestly Formation and will be offered in conjunction with the degrees of Master of Divinity and the Master of Arts in Theology which are conferred by the Seminary.
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Editor's Note: Media requesting more information should contact Rev. Msgr. John A. Close at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary at (610) 785-6231, or via fax at (610) 617-8737.
Contact
John Miller
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
January 20, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will celebrate the Archdiocese of Philadelphia's Mass for Life in the New Millennium on Sunday, January 23, 2000. Hundreds of people from throughout the Archdiocese will attend the Mass, which marks the 27th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision legalizing abortion.
Sunday, January 23, 2000
2:00 p.m.
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA
Attendees will include the Knights of Columbus, Catholic High School students and archdiocesan school students who are part of the "Spiritual Adoption Program," in which they "adopt" an unborn child and pray for the child to be born. The theme of this year's Mass for Life will be "Solidarity for Life in the New Millennium." Music will be provided by the Archdiocesan Boy Choir.
On Monday, January 24, 2000, Cardinal Bevilacqua will be the celebrant and homilist at the concluding Liturgy for the National Prayer Vigil for Life at 7:30 a.m. in the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. On Monday afternoon, Cardinal Bevilacqua will lead a delegation of more than 6500 people from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia at the 27th annual March for Life in Washington, D.C.
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Contact
John Miller
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
January 20, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will lead more than 6500 people from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to Washington, D.C., Monday, January 24, 2000 for the 27th annual March for Life, which commemorates the tragedy of the infamous 1973 Supreme Court decision, Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion.
Last year, more than 250,000 people attended the March for Life, exhorting lawmakers, the courts, and their fellow citizens to reverse this decision. More than 115 buses will leave from throughout the Archdiocese Monday morning. One of the departure points for buses is
Contact
John Miller
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
January 27, 2000
Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, is scheduled to make a major announcement regarding Blessed Katharine Drexel
Contact
Catherine Rossi
Director of Communications
215-587-3747
January 27, 2000
January 30th marks the beginning of Catholic Schools Week in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. More than 120,000 students, parents and teachers throughout the five-county Archdiocese will celebrate with a variety of special religious, social and recreational activities. The purpose of Catholic Schools Week is to build support and recognition for the 8,200 Catholic schools nationwide. Catholic Schools Week also recognizes the sacrifices parents make in exercising their right to choose a Catholic Education.
Archdiocesan Enrollment figures for Year 1999/2000: In the 212 parish elementary schools enrollment this year is 82,935. Enrollment for the 22 Archdiocesan high schools is 23,178.
The Archdiocesan High School Graduating Class of 1999 was offered more than $117 million in scholarships, an increase of $7 million over the previous year. Our high school graduation rate is 99% and 88% of the graduates are continuing to further their education.
According to statistics from the National Catholic Education Association, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia has the second largest enrollment in the nation. Chicago is first and New York is third.
Every year our schools celebrate Catholic Schools Week with many special activities, liturgies and celebrations. Below is a list of some fun events going on in a few of our schools!
Sunday, January 30,2000
10:00 a.m. - St. Helena Parish, Fifth Street and Godfrey Avenue, Philadelphia
75th Jubilee of the Parish - all former religious and lay teachers and former students have been invited to attend the 10 a.m. liturgy. Representatives from graduating classes (1928-1999) will be in the entrance procession. The Liturgy will be followed by a reception in the school hall.
10:00 a.m. - Nativity B.V.M., Belgrade Street and Allegheny Avenue, Philadelphia
Children will speak at Sunday Mass. A "Thank You" to the parish.
8:00 a.m. until 12 noon - Ss. Philip and James Church, 723 E. Lincoln Hwy, Exton, Pa.
A display of posters honoring the different feasts of the Blessed Mother will be presented. This exhibit will be in the lobby of the Church during all Masses.
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. - Archbishop Wood High School, 655 York Road, Warminster, PA
Activities Bazaar, Coaches Corner, Registration in school cafeteria. Students and moderators of the various extra-curricular activities are available to discuss the many programs that the school has to offer. Also, team members and coaches are available to speak with parents and potential incoming students.
Monday, January 31, 2000
8:15 a.m. - St. Anthony Church , 259 Forest Avenue, Ambler, PA
Catholic School Week Opening Liturgy for Ambler Catholic Elementary School
9:30 a.m. - St. Charles Borromeo School, 1704 Bristol Pike, Bensalem
As students contemplate lighting the way to a new century, they will remember the past by writing notes of thank you to the retired priests and religious of the diocese.
10:00 a.m. -St. Anastasia School, 3309 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square
Home and School Board Officers will be honored at the Opening Prayer Service. Baked goods will be distributed to local community personnel.
10:45 a.m. - St. Mary Magdalen School, 2430 Providence Road, Media
Special recognition of two parishioners, Dr. John Dzwonczyk and Mrs. Patricia Holloway, for their effort, time and talents to Catholic Education
1:45 p.m. - St. Eugene School, 110 S. Oak Avenue, Primos, PA
Faculty and student volleyball game
7:00 p.m. - St. John Neumann High School, 2600 Moore Street, Philadelphia
Safe Schools: Teaching Respect, Ethics and Tolerance - a presentation for faculty members, students and parents by Mr. Ted Fattoross. Mr. Fattoross comes to Neumann with seventeen years of experience in communicating positive values and leadership.
Tuesday, February 1, 2000
The Declaration of Commitment Scroll will be signed in many of our schools on the Tuesday of Catholic Schools Week - Students will be signing their names to a document committing to Five Values to Live By: Prayer, Responsibility, Integrity, Respect and Service. Some schools to visit for the signing are:
9:00 a.m. - St. Helena School, 5th Street and Godfrey Avenue, Philadelphia
The Declaration of Commitment Scroll will be signed by all members of the school community
10:00 a.m. - St. Bede the Venerable Church, 1054 Holland Road, Holland. PA
Prayer service and signing the Declaration of Commitment
1:00 p.m. - Holy Martyrs School, 121 Allison Road, Oreland, PA
"Signing of the Scroll" - Plus, a time capsule for the Millennium will be created with each class contributing their "artifact."
8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. - St. Anastasia School, 3309 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, PA
"Millennium Dress Up Day" - Student Council Members researched the dress of the different decades from 1900 to 2000. Grades will come dressed appropriately for their assigned "era."
8:45 a.m. - St. Madeline-St. Rose School, 500 Tome Street, Ridley Park, PA
A Government official will speak during an assembly and discuss respect for the U.S. flag, and how it should be properly be displayed.
10:00 a.m. - Holy Trinity, Osborne and Stockham Avenues, Morrisville, PA
Students will fill a time capsule with memorabilia that reflects their lives as Holy Trinity Students in the school year 1999-2000.Things to be included will be class photos, a copy of the millennium prayer service, a picture of the computer lab and library. Individual classes decide on items to be placed in time capsule.
Wednesday, February 2, 2000
10:00 a.m. - St. Anne School, 418 Jefferson Avenue, Bristol, PA
Special recognition to honor of the late Dr. Edmund T. Carroll Jr., whose family donated $25,000 to aid in the funding of a 31 computer technology center at the school. Proceeds from the annual walkathon and donations from anonymous donors also contributed to the center.
10:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. - St. John the Baptist, 119 Rector Street, Philadelphia
Open House - Parents, friends, family and all parishioners are invited to come and see Catholic Schools in action! Refreshments will be served.
1:00 p.m. - 1:45 p.m. St. Joan of Arc, 3556 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia
Student Appreciation Day - dance for K through 4 grade in school hall
6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. - Ambler Catholic Elementary School, 1 Poplar Street, Ambler, PA
Open House. Grades 4 - 8 hold a "Decorate a Door" Contest - Creativity at its best!!!
7- 8 p.m. - St. Anastasia School, 3309 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, PA
Open house for parents and prospective students. Musical entertainment by the students. "Door Decorating Display" - Classrooms decorated in honor of theme "Open Wide the Doors to Christ."
8:00 a.m. Northeast Catholic High School, 1842 Torresdale Avenue, Philadelphia
Richard Benninghoff will be performing his magic during an assembly period for all Freshman and Sophomore students. This is part of student appreciate day. Karaoke during all lunch periods.
12:30 p.m. Our Lady Help of Christians School, E. Allegheny Avenue and Chatham Street, Philadelphia
Faculty Luncheon for five area schools in Port Richmond ( St. Adalbert, St. George, Mother of Divine Grace, Nativity) hosted by Our Lady Help of Christians (Fifties theme)
2:30 p.m.-4:00 p.m. John W. Hallahan Girls Catholic High School, 19th and Wood Streets, Philadelphia
"Battle of the Sexes" -Roman Catholic High School students meet the students from their sister school, the girls of John W. Hallahan, in their annual challenge of wits and physical ability. Hallahan hosts Roman in an Academic Bowl and a variety of athletic competitions from free throwing basketballs, to jumping rope, to the finale: a tug o' war between the two teams.
Thursday, February 3, 2000
7:10 a.m. - Archbishop Wood High School, 655 York Road, Warminster, PA
Faculty/Staff Appreciation Day. A special breakfast served by Student Council. Also, Student Council will present a gift to each member of staff as a token of thanks.
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon - St. Joseph School, 251 Concord Road, Aston, PA
Science Fair open to the public. At 8:15 a.m. there will be an Awards Assembly in Degnan Hall
8:00 - 9:30 a.m. Roman Catholic High School, Broad and Vine Streets, Philadelphia
"Pax Vobiscum" - Roman students will participate in a day long program which will deal with attitudes, problems, misconceptions, and realities of violence among teens and how they can contribute to peace in the world.
9:00 - 11:00 a.m. - St. Kevin School, 200 W. Sproul Road, Springfield, PA
Students will attend an assembly presentation from Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc. and an assembly on self-esteem entitled "Boss of My Body."
9:00 - 11:00 a.m. - Assumption B.V.M., 290 State Road, West Grove, PA
Students will attend an assembly entitled "Bill Wood the Storyteller."
10:00 a.m. - St. Laurence School, 8245 West Chester Pike, Highland Park, PA
Monsignor Bonner High School Jazz Band will entertain the students
1:00 p.m. - St. Adalbert School, Thompson and Madison Streets, Philadelphia
Family Feud Game between teachers and students
6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. - Ambler Catholic Elementary School - St. Anthony's Auditorium,
Forest Avenue and Hendricks Street, Ambler, PA
Family Reading Night -To help promote reading, families with gather together for a book swapping night!
7:00 p.m. - St. Maria Goretti High School, 10th and Moore Streets, Philadelphia
Dedication of the new computer lab which was funded by The Connelly Foundation. Also, the Microsoft "Mouse" Certification Center will be launched.
Friday, February 4, 2000
9:00 a.m. - St. Charles Borromeo School, Father George Center, 1941 Christian Street, Philadelphia
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will visit the school and students
9:00 a.m. - St. Dorothy School, 1225 Burmont Road, Drexel Hill, PA
Special Liturgy - Mrs. Eleanor Carafa will be honored for 25 years of teaching service in the Archdiocese.
9:30 a.m. - St. Adalbert School, Thompson and Madison Streets, Philadelphia
Grandparents day - Coffee and cake at 9:30 a.m. in lower hall; Meet with children at 10:30 a.m. in Lower Hall, Special Liturgy at 11:00 a.m.
1:00 p.m. - Kennedy-Kenrick Catholic High School, 250 E. Johnson Way, Norristown, PA
Annual faculty and student volleyball game
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Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
January 27, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, announced today that Pope John Paul II decreed that a healing attributed to the intercession of Blessed Katharine Drexel of a young girl's deafness is miraculous. The Holy Father's decree is the last major step needed for the canonization of Blessed Katharine Drexel. "This means that our holy and selfless Philadelphia native will soon be declared a saint of the Roman Catholic Church," said Cardinal Bevilacqua. "There is no question that God worked through Mother Katharine Drexel and her ministry continues even now."
Cardinal Bevilacqua made the announcement in Bensalem, PA, at the Mother House of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, the order founded by Blessed Katharine Drexel in 1891. Katharine Drexel devoted her life to serving the native American and African American poor in the United States. Sister Beatrice Jeffries, Vice-President of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, said "It is a day of rejoicing for the Church of Philadelphia, a day of rejoicing for our people."
Seven year old Amanda "Amy" Wall of Bucks County, PA, is the recipient of Blessed Katharine Drexel's miraculous intercession. Amy was born with nerve deafness in both ears in 1992. Amy's family began praying to Blessed Katharine Drexel in November 1993, after learning that prayer to Blessed Katharine lead to the miraculous restoration of hearing to a Bucks County man named Robert Gutherman. In March 1994, a pre-school teacher noticed a change in Amy's responses and the little girl was given new hearing tests. She was found to have normal hearing in both ears. "We thank Blessed Katharine for her intercession for our daughter and we thank God for the blessing of this wonderful miracle," said Amanda's mother, Constance Wall.
This healing, attributed to Katharine Drexel, was submitted to Rome in 1997. A board of medical experts decided October 7, 1999 that there was no scientific, natural or medical reason for the cure. On January 5, 2000 a board of theologians decided that the healing was due to the intercession of Katharine Drexel. A board of cardinals and bishops, members from the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, decided on January 18, 2000 to recommend the healing to the Holy Father as miraculous.
Today the Pope issued the decree that the healing is miraculous. "This miracle is a manifestation of God's glory. Miracles are always a sign that God is still with us," said Cardinal Bevilacqua. "As Archbishop of Philadelphia, it is a privilege to know that we will soon have the distinct honor of being the only diocese in the United States to boast two canonized saints, Saint John Neumannn, and assuredly, soon-to-be-called Saint Katharine Drexel."
Contact
Cathy Rossi
Director
215-587-3747
January 28, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will celebrate a special Mass for World Day for Consecrated Life
Sunday, January 30, 2000
2:00 p.m.
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia
Almost 1500 religious priests, sisters and brothers, as well as members of secular institutes will attend the Mass. Among them will be 102-year-old Sister Ursula Infante, who will take part in the gift procession.
A dinner honoring the religious of the Archdiocese will be held following Mass at the Wyndham Hotel. Each religious will receive a rose and a special commemorative holy card at the dinner. Contemplative and Cloistered nuns who are unable to attend the Mass and dinner will have dinner delivered to them and will receive special gifts at their residences.
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Contact
John Miller
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
January 31, 2000
As part of the Catholic Schools Week Celebration (January 30th - February 5th), Monsignor Philip J. Cribben, Secretary of Catholic Education for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, will visit with students at St. Laurentius School on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
February 1, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia celebrated mass and dedicated the new Corpus Christi Church in Upper Gwynedd, Montgomery County. Reverend Monsignor John C. Marine, Vicar for Montgomery County and Reverend Monsignor Thomas P. Flanigan, Pastor of Corpus Christi Parish concelebrated the mass. The mass was held on Sunday, January 15, 2000 at 1:00 p.m. at Corpus Christi Parish which is located at 920 Sumneytown Pike in Upper Gwynedd, Montgomery County.
Corpus Christi was founded in 1964. Currently, there are 3,400 families registered at Corpus Christi for a total of 12,000 parishioners.
The new church:
• Holds close to 1,400
• Cost $4.8 million
• Funded by the generosity of parishioners and friends of Corpus Christi Parish
• Designed as classical A-frame from early American/Georgian design with red brick exterior
• Contains thirty new stained-glass windows
• Has red oak crucifix that weighs 300 pounds, stands 14 feet high
• Has 65 feet high bell tower
Contact
Cathy Rossi
Director
215-587-3747
February 2, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will visit with students from St. Charles Borromeo School in South Philadelphia on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
February 3, 2000
The AGAPE Campfire Program, a campfire program for boys and girls sponsored by the Archdiocesan Office of Youth and Young Adults, will pay tribute to American war veterans. In keeping with their program name, AGAPE, which means LOVE in Greek, approximately 35 youth and adult volunteers will gather together to sign Valentine cards, pack goodie bags and arrange fruit boxes on:
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
February 8, 2000
Delayed due to last week's icy weather conditions, Philadelphia City Council Members will present a resolution to Monsignor Philip J. Cribben, Archdiocesan Secretary for Catholic Education, in recognition of "Catholic Schools Week" and the contributions that Catholic Schools make to the community. The ceremony will take place on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
February 11, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will be the celebrant and homilist at the Scout Sunday Liturgy on:
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
February 14, 2000
In a letter dated January 19, 2000, sent to Reverend Thomas J. Smith, Regional Vicar for Delaware County, Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, accepted the Cluster Pastoral Plan for Cluster 67, and commended the pastors and all who served on the Cluster Pastoral Planning Committee.
The five parishes of Cluster 67 are:
Blessed Katharine Drexel Parish
Our Lady of Charity Parish
Saint John Chrysostom Parish
Nativity B.V.M. Parish
Saint Mary Magdalen Parish
Cluster 67's plan centers on these objectives:
1) Pastoral Services: To continue to provide pastoral services which will satisfy and fulfill the needs of the people in light of the reduction of priests assigned to the Cluster. The number of priests in the Cluster will be reduced by one in 2000. This will be accomplished by not replacing the senior priest at Our Lady of Charity when he retires in June 2000. To compensate for this loss and to continue pastoral services at Crozer Chester Medical Center, the Cluster will seek additional assistance from parishes outside of the Cluster.
2) Evangelization: To proclaim Jesus Christ and His call to discipleship for all people in the Cluster. This will be accomplished by providing Catholic education and spiritual formation for all who want it. It will also be accomplished through Cluster participation in Parish Outreach Programs. The Cluster will build a greater sense of Catholic community by affirming the diversity of its cultures and the unity of its faith. Beginning in the spring of 2000, the Implementation Team will schedule Cluster Masses and socials after Mass at regular intervals.
3) Stewardship Development: To call Catholics to greater discipleship to make better use of their gifts of time, talent and treasure. This will be accomplished by establishing a Cluster Stewardship Subcommittee which will provide periodic informational meetings and workshops beginning in the winter of 2000. In addition, each parish will establish a Stewardship Committee.
4)Youth and Young Adults: To nurture the faith of our youth and young adults to assist them in deepening their commitment to Jesus. This will be accomplished by providing pastoral services necessary to help youth identify with their parish and the larger Church. It will also be accomplished by studying and responding to the spiritual needs of the Catholic students at Widener University and by exploring the possibility of obtaining assistance to establish Newman Chaplaincy at Widener University.
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Editor's Note: Media inquiries should be directed to Rev. Thomas J. Smith, Regional Vicar-Delaware County, at 610-543-6759.
Contact
Donna Crilley
215-587-3747
February 23, 2000
To commemorate their years of dedicated service and give well-deserved recognition, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia's Office for Catholic Education is hosting a special Liturgy and Dinner, honoring 120 teachers for 25 years of ministry. The event will be on:
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
February 24, 2000
The musical talents of more than 750 students of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia will be showcased on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
February 24, 2000
This weekend, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Office for Youth and Young Adults will host its second annual Archdiocesan Youth Conference in Ocean City, New Jersey. The conference will be held at the Flanders Hotel, 11th and the Boardwalk. More than 450 teens will be attending a conference of prayer and faith-sharing. The conference includes liturgies, concerts, speakers, workshops, and dancing.
Busloads of teens will depart for this fun-filled weekend from the following sites:
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
February 25, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will celebrate a mass honoring altar servers from Delaware County, Chester County, and Philadelphia-South Vicariates.
2:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 27, 2000
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia
Contact
John Miller
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
February 28, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will celebrate a mass honoring Blessed Katharine Drexel on her Feast day. More than 1500 people are expected to attend the mass, including members of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, the religious order Blessed Katharine established in 1891.
12:00 p.m.
Friday, March 3, 2000
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia
The mass will celebrate Blessed Katharine Drexel's life and her continuing mission, which focuses on the poor among the Native American and African American people.
Cardinal Bevilacqua, Robert Gutherman and Amy Wall and her family will be available for interviews after the Mass
1:15 p.m.
Friday, March 3, 2000
Archdiocesan Office Center
9th Floor
222 North Seventeenth Street
Philadelphia
Katharine Drexel was born in 1858 in Philadelphia and died in 1955. Pope John Paul II beatified her on November 20, 1988, bestowing upon her the title of "Blessed." On January 27, 2000, the Holy Father decreed that the healing attributed to the intercession of Blessed Katharine Drexel of Amy Wall's hearing is miraculous. The decree is the last major step needed for the canonization of Blessed Katharine Drexel. The Vatican is expected in the near future to announce when Katharine Drexel will be canonized.
No interviews will be given in the Cathedral. Video cameras will not be permitted in the Cathedral during the Mass. A multi-camera feed will be provided via "mult-box" outside the Cathedral in the rear of the building. For more information on accessing this feed, please contact the Office for Communications at 215-587-3747. Still cameras and reporters will be permitted inside the Cathedral.
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Contact
Catherine Rossi
Director
215-587-3747
March 1, 2000
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia Catholic Youth Organization will host a leadership conference for African American teens, grades 9 through 12. "Kujenga"(pronounce Koo JEN ga) is the Swahili word for "leadership." This weekend conference provides family oriented leadership training for African American high school age members of parish youth groups through a celebration of culture, customs, and traditions.
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
March 1, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will host a youth forum with students of Catholic elementary schools to discuss issues of violence in their lives. The forum will take place on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
March 2, 2000
The Board of Education for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia will host an "open forum" for parents, teachers, and interested members of the Montgomery County community on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
March 2, 2000
The Board of Education for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia will host an "open forum" for parents, teachers, and interested members of the community in the Bucks and Montgomery County areas on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
March 3, 2000
Following is the text of Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua's Lenten Pastoral which will be communicated to the faithful during the March 4-5 weekend:
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
March 3, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will celebrate Mass and distribute ashes following the Mass on:
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
March 3, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, celebrated mass honoring Blessed Katharine Drexel on her Feast day. More than 1500 people attended the Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints. Peter and Paul in center city Philadelphia. "There are certain men and women throughout the two-thousand year history of the Church who are shining examples of Christlike service. The woman we honor today is a brilliant example of unselfish and unconditional love," said Cardinal Bevilacqua.
Cardinal Bevilacqua said, "Mother Katharine Drexel is great not because of her name or her wealth, but because, like her Lord and Master, she served the needs of all. In fact, we might say that she is great because she remembered the forgotten, ministered to the lowly, and loved the unloved. Katharine Drexel's deep love of God fueled her missionary efforts and the establishment of the community of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament. God was the center of her life; all she did radiated from Him who kept her anchored in faithfulness and true to her mission."
Cardinal Bevilacqua said today that it is likely the Consistory of Cardinals will meet on March 10, 2000 and announce a canonization date. That date will likely be in October 2000.
In attendance at the Mass were members of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament (the order founded by Katharine Drexel), children who attend schools founded by the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, members of the Drexel family, as well as the recipients of Katharine Drexel's miraculous intercessions, Amanda "Amy" Wall and Robert Gutherman and their families.
On January 27, 2000, Cardinal Bevilacqua announced that Pope John Paul II decreed that a healing attributed to the intercession of Blessed Katharine Drexel of a young girl's deafness is miraculous. The Holy Father's decree is the last major step necessary for canonization of Blessed Katharine Drexel.
Amy Wall of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, was born with nerve deafness in both ears in 1992. Amy's family began praying to Blessed Katharine Drexel in November 1993 and in March 1994, a pre-school teacher noticed a change in Amy's responses. This healing, attributed to Katharine Drexel, was submitted to Rome in 1997. On January 5, 2000 a board of theologians decided that the healing was due to the intercession of Katharine Drexel.
In 1988, Pope John Paul II declared the healing of Robert Gutherman's deafness to be a miracle attributed to the intercession of Katharine Drexel. Robert Gutherman is also from Bucks County, Pennsylvania. This declaration earned Katharine Drexel the title of "Blessed."
Katharine Drexel was born in 1858 in Philadelphia and died in 1955. She devoted her life to helping the poor among the Native American and African American people.
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Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Assistant
215-587-3747
March 7, 2000
Operation Rice Bowl, a Lenten program of prayer, fasting, education and almsgiving, launches its 25th annual campaign on Ash Wednesday, March 8, 2000. The 40-day program encourages Archdiocesan parishioners to fast one day a week during Lent. Families place money saved that would have been spent on meals into a cardboard "rice bowl" to remember those suffering from poverty and hunger. After Easter, parishioners will combine their contributions and donate the money to those in need.
To help commemorate the 25th anniversary of Operation Rice Bowl, there will be a "simple meal" of soup and rolls served
Wednesday, March 8, 2000
12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
111 South 38th Street (next to St. Agatha-St. James Church)
Philadelphia, PA
Parishioners from around the Archdiocese will take part in more than 50 similar "simple meals" throughout Lent.
During Operation Rice Bowl 1999, $295,000 was raised by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Seventy-five percent of the funds collected were distributed through Catholic Relief Services, an international air agency, and were used for projects aimed at helping low-income people develop skills and resources in countries throughout the world. Twenty-five percent of the funds, roughly $74,000 dollars, remained within the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Nutritional Development Services, a division of Catholic Social Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, used the funds to purchase food for the Philadelphia area's poor and hungry.
Operation Rice Bowl materials are available from most local parishes.
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Contact
John Miller
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
March 9, 2000
Pope John Paul II announced today that he has approved the canonization of Blessed Katharine Drexel of Philadelphia, and that he will canonize Mother Katharine as a Saint on Sunday, October 1, 2000 at Saint Peter's Square in Rome. The Pope's announcement came at a meeting of Cardinals held in Rome this morning. The meeting, known as an ordinary public consistory, was called by the Holy Father so that he could receive the advice of the Cardinals regarding the possible canonization of Katharine Drexel, and other Blesseds from Mexico, China, Spain, and Poland.
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, expressed his joy over the announcement, which marks the final step before the canonization ceremony in what is necessarily a long process. "This is truly a joyous occasion for all of us," said Cardinal Bevilacqua. "Catholics everywhere, and especially in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, will rightfully rejoice at this great news."
"Clearly, God worked through Mother Katharine Drexel who did His Will and was of service to the poorest of the poor," said Cardinal Bevilacqua. "She is a shining example to all believers and to all people of good will. Mother Katharine gave up her family fortune to devote her life to the poor and oppressed, particularly Native American and African American peoples. She believed that we are all one people united in the Holy Eucharist, the sacrament which is Jesus' 'total gift of self.'"
"It is our prayer that Katharine Drexel's life and message will inspire many to work and pray for greater unity, justice and peace for all peoples," said Sister Monica Laughlin, President of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, the religious order founded by Blessed Katharine Drexel. The Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament Mother House is located in Bensalem, PA. "We rejoice at the news of the canonization of our foundress and we pray that her spirit and mission will heal closed hearts," said Sister Monica. "This is indeed a Jubilee year for the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament!"
Katharine Drexel was born in 1858 in Philadelphia and died in 1955. Pope John Paul II beatified her on November 20, 1988, bestowing upon her the title of "Blessed," after decreeing that the restoration of Robert Gutherman's hearing, attributed to Mother Katharine Drexel's intercession, was miraculous. On January 27, 2000, the Holy Father decreed that the healing of Amy Wall's hearing attributed to her intercession was a miracle as well.
Upon the canonization of Blessed Katharine Drexel, Philadelphia will become the only diocese in the United States with two canonized saints. Saint John Neumann, the fourth Bishop of Philadelphia, was canonized June 19, 1977.
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Editor's Note: Cardinal Bevilacqua is in Rome on an Archdiocesan pilgrimage and is therefore unavailable for media interviews.
Contact
Catherine Rossi
Director
215-587-3747
March 9, 2000
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia will celebrate the Rite of Election and the Call to Continuing Conversion for Those Entering into Full Communion, a significant step for people who are joining the Catholic Church. There will be three celebrations.
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia
Saturday, March 11, 2000
11:30 a.m.
ceremony for Philadelphia-South parishes and Montgomery County parishes
(celebrated by Bishop Robert Maginnis)
Saturday, March 11, 2000
6:00 p.m.
ceremony for Philadelphia-North parishes and Bucks County parishes
(celebrated by Bishop Joseph Martino)
Sunday, March 12, 2000
6:00 p.m.
ceremony for Delaware County parishes and Chster County parishes
(celebrated by Bishop Joseph Martino)
Catechumens are adults who have never been baptized who wish to become Catholics. Candidates are adults who were baptized in a Christian faith and desire to come into full communion with the Catholic Church. During the ceremony, the celebrant will declare the Church's approval for the catechumens and the candidates to continue their endeavors to become full members of the Church.
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process that prepares adults to join the Catholic Church through the process of education, reflection, parish support, and formation. Catechumens will receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist at the Easter Vigil Mass, known as a time of rebirth. More than 1200 catechumens and candidates representing 177 parishes from throughout the Archdiocese will participate in the Rite of Election and the Call to Continuing Conversion celebrations.
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Contact
John Miller
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
March 15, 2000
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
March 16, 2000
The Medical Board of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints at the Vatican has ruled that there is no medical explanation for the cure of a young Philadelphia area girl who suffered from a spinal ailment. The cure is attributed to the intercession of Blessed Frances de Sales Aviat of France, Foundress of the Oblate Sisters of Saint Francis de Sales. The Medical Board decision brings Mother Aviat one step closer to canonization as a saint.
Since the alleged cure occurred in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, the diocesan inquiry regarding the case was opened by Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua on September 8, 1994 and concluded on November 15, 1994. The cause has been in process in Rome ever since.
"The events of these past weeks have been exciting for the Oblate Sisters and all those spiritually united in prayer for this cause. It is a testament to faith in prayer and an encouragement to all," said Sister Anne Elizabeth, Congregational Delegate to the United States. Since this announcement came shortly before the Holy Father's decision to canonize Blessed Katharine Drexel, Cardinal Bevilacqua expressed his profound gratitude at the news, recognizing that this case is further evidence that God is truly working in our midst.
The recent Vatican Medical Board decision means the case will now move to the Vatican board of theologians and then to Cardinals and Bishops who are members of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. If the Cardinals and Bishops of this Congregation recommend that the healing is the result of prayer to Blessed Frances de Sales Aviat, only then will the Holy Father declare that a second miracle has taken place - the final step needed for Mother Avait to be canonized a saint.
Contact
Catherine Rossi
Director
215-587-3747
March 21, 2000
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia, with the assistance of the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference, will publish its customary Candidates Questionnaire (voters guide) for the April 4, 2000 primary election. Candidates were surveyed on a broad range of topics of interest to Catholic voters, and their responses are being published without comment of any type.
The primary election is Tuesday, April 4, 2000. The Candidates Questionnaire will be published in the Archdiocesan newspaper, The Catholic Standard and Times, on March 23, 2000, before the primary election. In addition, the questionnaire will be made available to pastors of each of the 286 parishes throughout the five-county Archdiocese. The questionnaire will be available through the Archdiocesan website (www.archdiocese-phl.org) beginning on March 23, 2000.
"We do not endorse any candidate or party, nor do we tell people how to vote," said Guy Ciarrocchi, director of the Office for Public Affairs. "The purpose of the questionnaire is to help people make informed choices."
The Candidates Questionnaire will list responses received from candidates in contested primary election races, including PA Attorney General, US Senate, US House of Representatives, and PA House of Representatives. Issues covered include education, health care, capital punishment and abortion. Candidates for US President will be surveyed following the primary election. Their responses will be in the questionnaire for the general election to be published during October 2000.
# # # # #
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
March 23, 2000
In an effort to encourage everyone to participate in Census 2000, Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua will fill out his census form and be available to discuss the civic responsibility of every person to do the same
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
March 24, 2000
Approximately 250 high school students who are members of the Community Service Corps of the Archdiocesan Office for Youth and Young Adults will attend CONVOCATION 2000, sponsored by the Archdiocesan Office for Youth and Young Adults, on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
March 31, 2000
The Archdiocesan Office for Youth and Young Adults T.O.D.A.Y. program is sponsoring a "Bunny Brunch" on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
April 3, 2000
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia will hold a Eucharistic Convocation on April 7, 8 and 9, 2000. This event will focus on a document written by Pope John Paul II called"The Church in America," which outlines the opportunities and challenges for the Church in North and South America as it enters the Third Millennium. The Eucharistic Convocation will begin with an Opening Liturgy on
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
April 5, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will host the 2000 Catholic Charities Appeal Kickoff on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
April 10, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will be the celebrant and homilist at a special liturgy honoring high school seniors for their outstanding academic excellence on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
April 13, 2000
PALM SUNDAY - APRIL 16, 2000 - 10:45 A.M.
Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul, 18th and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
In celebration of the Lord's entrance into Jerusalem, Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua will bless the palms to be distributed to the faithful. Following the blessing of the palms, the Cardinal will be the celebrant and homilist at the Mass of Passion (Palm) Sunday.
HOLY THURSDAY CHRISM MASS - APRIL 20, 2000 - 10:00 A.M.
Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul, 18th and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua will be the main celebrant and homilist at the Holy Thursday Chrism Mass, which commemorates the day on which the priesthood was established. Approximately 500 priests of the Archdiocese will be in attendance at this mass. During the Mass, Cardinal Bevilacqua will bless the three oils used in the Sacraments: the Oil of Catechumens, used in Baptism; the Oil of the Sick, used in anointing of the sick; and Chrism Oil, used in the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Orders.
HOLY THURSDAY MASS OF THE LORD'S SUPPER - APRIL 20, 2000 - 5:00 P.M.
Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul, 18th and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua will be the main celebrant and homilist. This mass commemorates the Last Supper, during which Christ instituted the sacrament of Holy Eucharist, and is one of the most solemn celebrations of the Church year. After the homily, following the example of Christ who washed the feet of the apostles at the Last Supper, the Cardinal will wash the feet of twelve seminarians from St. Charles Borromeo Seminary. This ceremony, known as the "mandatum," symbolizes the humility of Jesus.
GOOD FRIDAY - APRIL 21, 2000 - 3:00 P.M.
Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul, 18th and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Solemn Liturgy of the Passion and Death of Christ- Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua is the celebrant and homilist. Following the example of the Holy Father, Pope John Paul II, Cardinal Bevilacqua will make a "Statement of Forgiveness" during his homily.
GOOD FRIDAY - APRIL 21,2000 - 3:00 P.M.
St. John the Evangelist Church, 13th Street between Market and Chestnut Street - 3:00 P.M.
"The Way of the Cross" -a special dramatic presentation of "Via Crucis" (The Way of the Cross). Under the direction of Dr. Annette DiMedio, students from the University of the Arts will perform this dramatic presentation based on the musical score, Via Crucis, composed by Franz Liszt.
HOLY SATURDAY - APRIL 22, 2000 - 8:00 P.M.
Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul, 18th and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua is the celebrant and homilist at the Easter Vigil Mass. The special ceremonies that take place during this Mass are all related to the Resurrection. The ceremonies include: the Blessing of the Fire, the lighting of the Paschal Candle, and the Blessing of the Easter Water. During the Mass, after the homily, Cardinal Bevilacqua will baptize and receive new members of the faith into the church.
EASTER SUNDAY - APRIL 23, 2000 - 9:30 A.M.
Resurrection of Our Lord Church, Castor Avenue and Vista Street, Philadelphia
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua will be the celebrant and homilist at the Mass of the Resurrection.
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
April 13, 2000
Project Rachel of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia will offer free Post Abortion Support Groups on Tuesday evenings beginning April 25, 2000 through May 16, 2000
6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Catholic Social Services Family Service Center
100 Levittown Parkway
Levittown, PA 19054
Contact
John Miller
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
April 14, 2000
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
April 14, 2000
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia will present a Concert of Sacred Music in celebration of the Great Jubilee Year 2000.
Sunday, April 16, 2000
7:30 p.m.
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia
The concert will feature the Gregorian Schola of Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary, a choir made up of 12 seminarians. The concert also will feature music students of the secondary schools of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, including the All Catholic Orchestra, the All Catholic Jazz Band, the All Catholic Concert Band and the All Catholic Chorus.
The concert program will include Bach's "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring," Mendelssohn's "Sonata No. 6 in ' D' Minor" and Beible's "Ave Maria," along with other sacred works.
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Contact
John Miller
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
April 17, 2000
In a letter dated April 3, 2000, sent to Reverend Monsignor John C. Marine, Regional Vicar for Montgomery County,Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, accepted the Cluster Pastoral Plan for Cluster 76, and commended the pastors and all who served on the Cluster Pastoral Planning Committee.
The five parishes of Cluster 76 are:
St. Clare
Sacred Heart
St. Eleanor
St. Mary
St. Philip Neri
Cluster 76's plan centers on these objectives:
1) To provide adequate facilities for all parishes in the Cluster. This will be accomplished through the following objectives:
--The Cluster will continue to maintain five parishes.
--St. Clare Parish relocate to a new site in order to provide for projected population growth in the area.
-- Registered Catholic population in Cluster 76 area 24,504 as of December 1998
-- Registered Catholic population in Cluster 76 area projected to be between 35,000 and 45,000 by 2010
--Existing parish boundaries of St. Eleanor, St. Mary, St. Clare and Sacred Heart be redefined in order to insure an adequate number of families to support the construction and maintenance of a new parish campus for St. Clare and to address the imbalance in parish population in the neighboring parishes and schools. (effective July 1, 2000) (Revised boundaries available upon request)
--The Archdiocese of Philadelphia purchase a suitable site for the relocation of St. Clare Parish.
--St. Clare Parish is to begin procedures to establish a Capital Building Campaign for the construction of a parish elementary school with an auditorium that can be used as a temporary church.
--The present Sacred Heart Area Consolidated School become solely the parish school for Sacred Heart effective June 2002.
--St. Mary, St. Eleanor, Sacred Heart and St. Philip Neri continue to (a) study the respective challenges faced by their individual schools,( b) develop parish plans and (c) submit the appropriate plans to the Archdiocese for approval.
2) To establish a training program for all lay ministers in the Cluster. This will be accomplished with the establishment of inter-parish lay ministry committees beginning in June 2000. These committees will review and evaluate current training programs; coordinate ministry leaders to organize and implement training programs; create a Web site for Cluster training, information and recruiting; contact the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to request Church ministry training programs within the Cluster and consider the use of local Catholic high school facilities and faculties to implement these programs.
3) To bring back non-participating parishioners. This will be accomplished through the establishment of a sub-committee to share existing programs within the Cluster and to develop new evangelization programs within the Cluster beginning in January 2001.
4) To establish outreach programs to benefit the parishes of the Cluster. This will be accomplished through the establishment of a sub-committee to evaluate all existing outreach programs currently in the Cluster as they pertain to the Christian life of the Church in this area beginning in June 2000. This will also be accomplished by determining which programs and resources can be shared on a Cluster-wide basis beginning in June 2000.
5) To seek sufficient priests to meet the needs of the people. This will be accomplished by forming a sub-committee to develop a Cluster program to educate the parishioners regarding the promotion of vocations, the duties of priests and the impact of fewer available priests.
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* Statistics provided by the Archdiocesan Office for Research and Planning
Editor's Note: .Media inquiries should be directed to Reverend Monsignor John C. Marine, Vicar for Montgomery County at 610-896-0567.
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
April 17, 2000
In a letter dated April 3, 2000, sent to Reverend Monsignor John C. Marine, Regional Vicar for Montgomery County, Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, accepted the Cluster Pastoral Plan for Cluster 71, and commended the pastors and all who served on the Cluster Pastoral Planning Committee.
The ten parishes of Cluster 71 are:
Mother of Divine Providence
Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Our Mother of Sorrows
St. Augustine
St. Mary
St. Philip Neri
Sacred Heart
St. Matthew
St. Gertrude
Saints Cosmas and Damian
Cluster 71's plan centers on these objectives:
1) Plan for a smooth transition to a cluster with fewer priests. The number of priests in the Cluster will be reduced from 12 to eight in 2001. This objective will be accomplished as follows:
--Our Mother of Sorrows Parish will be restructured and its parish church will be an alternate worship site of St. Augustine Parish.
-- Our Mother of Sorrows Church building will remain open for Masses and funerals.
-- The arrangement will be served by one priest.
--St. Mary Parish will be twinned with St. Gertrude Parish. (Twinning means that two parishes share one pastor. Each parish remains separate and distinct.)
--Mother of Divine Providence Parish will be served by one priest (a reduction of one priest).
--St. Philip Neri Parish will be served by one priest (a reduction of one priest).
--Sacred Heart Parish, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, St. Matthew Parish and Saints Cosmas and Damian Parish are all currently served by one priest at each parish. This arrangement will continue.
--Special considerations are:
The parishioners of Our Mother of Sorrows will have some choice as to which parish they join. Those members who reside within the territorial boundaries of St. Augustine Parish become members of that parish OR they may choose to join the nearest Slovak personal (ethnic) parish. It is preferred that those members who reside outside the territorial boundaries of St. Augustine Parish become members of the territorial parish in whose boundaries they reside OR they may choose to join the nearest Slovak personal parish. However, because of the uniqueness of this situation, they will be given the option of registering at St. Augustine Parish (this only applies to present members).
The parishes in the cluster will provide assistance to the pastors of Mother of Divine Providence and St. Philip Neri Parishes.
The pastor of the twinned St. Mary and St. Gertrude Parishes must be fluent in Polish.
2) Promote development of lay leadership and stewardship. This will be accomplished by the establishment of a committee which will survey parishes for leadership, ministry and stewardship development needs then plan cluster-wide programs to satisfy common needs. This will also be accomplished with the establishment of a Young Catholic Leaders Association for parishioners in their 20's and 30's.
3) Enrich the faith experience of youth. For this objective, the cluster will be divided into two geographic areas: King of Prussia/Bridgeport/Swedesburg and Lafayette Hill/Conshohocken/West Conshohocken. For each of three youth groups (Post-Confirmation, High School, Young Adults), a committee will plan a calendar of cluster-wide events for their group and determine possible needs for youth ministers.
4) Recognize the uniqueness of geography, history and ethnicity. For this objective the cluster will be divided into two geographic areas: King of Prussia/Bridgeport/Swedesburg and Lafayette Hill/Conshohocken/West Conshohocken. Pastors will meet quarterly to discuss liturgical, social and ethnic cooperation and participation.
5) Develop and maintain a web site for cluster and parish communications. This will be accomplished within three months after the acceptance of the Cluster Plan through the work of four representatives who will plan and design the content of the Web site, then coordinate the effort to develop and maintain the site.
###
Editor's Note: Media inquiries should be directed to Reverend Monsignor John C. Marine, Vicar for Montgomery County at 610-896-0567.
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
April 17, 2000
Sister Constance Marie, IHM, principal of St. Francis de Sales School in West Philadelphia will receive the 2000 Catherine T. McNamee Award from the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA). Sr. Constance will accept the award during the NCEA's Annual Convention in Baltimore on April 25th.
The McNamee Award was established in 1996 in honor of former NCEA president, Catherine T. McNamee, in recognition of her leadership in promoting a vision of Catholic education that welcomes and serves cultural and economic diversity.
Sr. Constance became principal of St. Francis de Sales in 1984 and has worked diligently to bring spiritual and educational excellence to the diverse student body. The students are from 23 countries, and speak 16 languages. Sixty percent of the student body is non-Catholic and sixty-five percent fall below the federally-established poverty line. Sister and her staff share many achievements: increasing enrollment; starting a development program that has raised over $1 million; and initiating the St. Francis de Sales Peace Program to address violence in the surrounding neighborhood. The "Peace Program" began in 1992 and teaches conflict resolution and peer mediation, empowering the students to solve problems peacefully. The center is the "Peace Table" where students with disputes of any nature are asked to come to mediate their differences. The program has received local and national recognition, and this past November was awarded the Philadelphia Bar Foundation Apothaker Award.
# # #
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
April 18, 2000
Students from Cardinal Dougherty High School will represent the youth of the entire Archdiocese of Philadelphia in remembering the tragedy last April 20th at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado. The students will gather for a brief prayer service remembering the victims, their friends and families. The prayer service will be followed by the formation of a human "peace sign" on the school athletic field. The event will take place on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
April 19, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will make a significant "Statement of Forgiveness" during his homily at the Good Friday Liturgy on
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
April 25, 2000
Business Leadership Organized for Catholic Schools (BLOCS) will hold its Annual Gala on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
May 2, 2000
Thirty full four-year scholarships and twenty-nine partial four-year scholarships to the Archdiocesan high school of their choice will be presented to parochial school eighth-grade students by Bishop Joseph F. Martino, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
May 3, 2000
The musical talents of more than 750 students of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia will be showcased on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
May 3, 2000
Upon learning of John Cardinal O'Connor's death tonight, Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, issued the following statement: "It is with much sadness that I learned of the death of John Cardinal O'Connor, Archbishop of New York. Cardinal O'Connor was an outstanding priest, an exemplary Bishop, and a true friend. As a parish priest, a high school professor, a military chaplain and a diocesan Bishop and Cardinal, Cardinal O'Connor always responded generously to God's Will and served selflessly in whatever the Church asked of him. His courage, compassion, gentleness and good humor were hallmarks of this man, who was a loyal son of the Church and a dedicated servant of Jesus Christ.
In the midst of sickness and physical weakness, Cardinal O'Connor demonstrated the strength which comes from trust in God. With his suffering united to the sufferings of Christ, Cardinal O'Connor taught us complete and joyful acceptance of God's Will.
Cardinal O'Connor was a native son of Philadelphia. The Clergy, Religious and lay Faithful of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia join me in extending to our brothers and sisters in the Archdiocese of New York, as well as to the members of Cardinal O'Connor's family, our heartfelt sympathy and fervent prayers that their devoted shepherd may enter into the reward of the just and may live with Christ and the saints forever."
John Cardinal O'Connor was born in Philadelphia on January 15, 1920. He attended Saint Barnabas Elementary School in Southwest Philadelphia and graduated from West Catholic High School. Cardinal O'Connor attended Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary and was ordained a priest at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Philadelphia on December 15, 1945. He taught at Saint James High School in Chester and lived at Saint Gabriel Church in Norwood, Pennsylvania until he entered the armed services in 1952. In 1979, O'Connor was ordained a Bishop by Pope John Paul II for the Armed Forces of the United States. On June 29, 1983, Cardinal O'Connor was appointed Bishop of Scranton before being installed as Archbishop of New York on March 19,1984. Cardinal O'Connor was elevated by Pope John Paul II to the College of Cardinals on May 25, 1985.
# # #
FACT SHEET ON
JOHN CARDINAL O'CONNOR
-- John Cardinal O'Connor was born in Philadelphia on January 15, 1920, the son of the late Thomas J. and Dorothy O'Connor
-- Attended St. Barnabas Elementary School in Southwest Philadelphia
-- Graduate of West Catholic High School
-- He was ordained at the Cathedral Basilica of Ss. Peter and Paul on December 15, 1945 by Auxiliary Bishop Hugh L. Lamb
-- Taught at St. James High School in Chester
-- Lived at St. Gabriel Church, in Norwood, Pa. until he entered the armed services in 1952
-- Entered U. S. Navy in 1952 as Chaplain
-- 1972 he became the first Catholic to hold the position of senior chaplain at the Naval Academy at Annapolis
-- 1975 promoted to Rear Admiral (was highest ranking clergyman in the armed forces) and served four years as Chief of Chaplains of U.S. Navy and was chairman of the Armed Forces Chaplains' Board
-- 1979 - retired from military service
-- May 27, 1979 O'Connor was consecrated a bishop by Pope John Paul II and named Vicar General of the Military Ordinariate
-- June 29, 1983 appointed Seventh Bishop of Scranton
-- March 19, 1984 installed as Archbishop of New York
-- May 25, 1985 elevated by Pope John Paul II to College of Cardinals
Contact
Catherine L. Rossi
Director
215-587-3747
May 5, 2000
The presentation of the 2000 Josephine C. Connelly Achievement Awards honoring 147 eighth-grade students will take place on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-5987-3747
May 10, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will celebrate a mass dedicated to the memory of John Cardinal O'Connor, Archbishop of New York on:
Contact
Catherine L. Rossi
Director of Communications
215-587-3747
May 10, 2000
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
May 11, 2000
In the third and final year of a $4,000,000 partnership, fourteen Archdiocesan high schools have been awarded $1,500,000 in grants in response to a competitive proposal process. The three-year collaboration demonstrated the commitment of innovative administrators and faculties who continually strive to provide enriched learning opportunities to their students. The Academic Enrichment Program rewards strategic planning and vision, and the Archdiocese and the Connelly Foundation enthusiastically participated to jointly support this value-added approach to education.
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia and the Connelly Foundation announced their collaboration in a $4 million Academic Enrichment Program on December 16, 1997. The purpose of the Academic Enrichment Program is to support projects that introduce, enhance or expand programs at 22 diocesan high schools and Mercy Vocational High School to help their students grow academically. The initiative invested $1,000,000 in 1998, $1,500,000 in 1999 and the remaining $1,500,000 will be paid out in 2000. Project financing is comprised of a $2,400,000 pledge from the Connelly Foundation and a $1,000,000 commitment from the Archdiocese. The balance is realized by each participating school's contribution of 15 percent of its proposal budget, for a total $4,000,000 program.
Of 22 proposals submitted for consideration this year, fourteen grants have been awarded and their recipients notified on May 5, 2000 are as follows:
St. Maria Goretti High School for Girls
Philadelphia, PA
$35,000
Operating funds to provide for a technical support person to oversee the network and assist faculty in their professional development toward managing technology and integrating computer assisted learning into the curriculum.
Kennedy-Kenrick High School
Norristown, PA
$60,000
In support of the "Bridge to the Future" project that will enhance the language arts, math and science curriculum through the use of technology and continued faculty professional development.
John W. Hallahan Catholic Girls' High School
Philadelphia, PA
$70,000
To renovate and upgrade the school library and install technology-enhanced resources to be accessed by all students.
Mercy Vocational High School
Philadelphia, PA
$70,000
Each of seven vocational education classrooms and one multi-disciplinary classroom will have computer workstations available to teachers and students in order to enhance technology integration and usage in the curriculum.
North Catholic High School
Philadelphia, PA
$70,000
To provide for the creation of an advanced multi-purpose, internet accessible computer lab, as well as for faculty enrichment to enhance the use of technology to support and expand the curriculum.
Cardinal Dougherty High School
Philadelphia, PA
$75,000
To renovate and upgrade classroom space to allow for new computer hardware and internet access for students and to enhance students' writing competency through the acquisition and utilization of Writer's Solution.
Little Flower High School
Philadelphia, PA
$80,000
To upgrade the science laboratories to incorporate the utilization of laptop computers, graphing calculators and computer-based probes to enhance learning and generate a heightened interest in the sciences.
West Philadelphia Catholic High School
Philadelphia, PA
$100,000
Toward the renovation of the physics and physical science laboratory to provide an up-to-date science facility in which the principles of technology can be fully implemented.
Saint Pius X High School
Pottstown, PA
$100,000
To provide for the improved integration of technology into the curriculum by equipping classrooms with a desktop computer or mobile laptop computer to facilitate classroom learning and presentations.
Conwell-Egan Catholic High School
Fairless Hills, PA
$110,000
To fund the development of the Humanities Program and the integration of arts and technology through interdisciplinary instruction that will provide students with exposure to various art forms by forging links between the classroom and the cultural and artistic resources of the area.
Archbishop Prendergast High School
Drexel Hill, PA
$135,000
To fund an "Overture in Arts Education," a multi-disciplinary arts center designed to help students develop key habits of mind that include creativity, integration of technological tools into the study and expression of art, and to allow for increased participation in the visual and performing arts programs.
St. Hubert Catholic High School for Girls
Philadelphia, PA
$195,000
To enhance the humanities curriculum by establishing a dedicated writing lab, renovating the art studio to incorporate CAD technology and acquiring new musical instruments.
Roman Catholic High School
Philadelphia, PA
$200,000
To bring World Languages and science classrooms online with multimedia and internet capabilities that will allow faculty and students to better assimilate knowledge and application of the target languages and create more interactive scientific activities and experiments.
Monsignor Bonner High School
Drexel Hill, PA
$200,000
To support "Integrating Technology into the Mainstream of Instruction Program," a pilot program that replicates business practice by placing a computer on every desk in English and science classrooms toward a total integration of technology into the curriculum.
# # #
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
May 12, 2000
It's Spring and that means it's time for the T.O.D.A.Y. Spring Semi-Formal. Teens and young adults with disabilities as well as diocesan high school teens will gather together for fun and dancing on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
May 12, 2000
Business Leadership Organized for Catholic Schools (BLOCS) will hold its Annual Gala on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
May 16, 2000
The "Champions of Caring Project" is a collaborative effort between the public, private and Archdiocesan high schools in the Greater Philadelphia Region and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. The mission of the Project is to teach high school students the universal lessons of the Holocaust by encouraging caring and combating the "disease of indifference." The Project identifies and honors students from diverse backgrounds who, by their commitment to service, have made a significant impact on the lives of others. The Awards Ceremony will be held on
Wednesday, May 17, 2000
5:30 p.m.
The Union League of Philadelphia
140 South Broad Street
Philadelphia
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
May 16, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will ordain ten men to the priesthood on
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
May 16, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will deliver an address, "Let Us Build a Future Together: Pope John Paul II's Call To Reconciliation"
Contact
Catherine L. Rossi
Director of Communications
215-587-3747
May 16, 2000
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
May 17, 2000
A Mass and Installation Ceremony for the new officers of the Community Service Corps for 1999-2000 will be held on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
May 17, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, accompanied by a group of twenty Catholic high school students, will visit the "Splendor of 18th- Century Rome" exhibition at the Philadelphia Museum of Art on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-487-3747
May 17, 2000
The Rev. Mr. Anthony M. Bozeman, 40, son of Homer and Lillian Bozeman, will be ordained to the priesthood by Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua on
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
May 17, 2000
The Rev. Mr. James R. Casey, 29, son of Patricia and the late William E. Casey, will be ordained to the priesthood by Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua on
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
May 17, 2000
The Rev. Mr. Michael A. Filippello, 32, son of Anna Marie and the late Michael S. Filippello, will be ordained to the priesthood by Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua on
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
May 17, 2000
The Rev. Mr. Joseph R. Hess, 45, son of Josephine and the late Joseph Hess, will be ordained to the priesthood by Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua on
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
May 17, 2000
The Rev. Mr. Mark S. Kunigonis, 38, son of Dorothy and the late William Kunigonis, will be ordained to the priesthood by Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua on
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
May 17, 2000
The Rev. Mr. Christopher B. Rogers, 27, son of James and Rosemary Rogers, will be ordained to the priesthood by Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua on
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
May 17, 2000
The Rev. Mr. Dominic Rossi, 33, son of Dominick and Rita Rossi, will be ordained to the priesthood by Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua on
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
May 17, 2000
The Rev. Mr. Joseph Shenosky, 29, son of Joseph and Blanche Shenosky, will be ordained to the priesthood by Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua on
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
May 17, 2000
The Rev. Mr. Patrick J. Welsh, 27, son of James and Patricia Welsh, will be ordained to the priesthood by Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua on
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
May 17, 2000
The Rev. Mr. Eugene C. Wilson, 35, son of Evelyn and the late Charles Wilson, will be ordained to the priesthood by Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua on
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
May 24, 2000
Don Guanella students will provide a day of fun for the many volunteers who assist the school during the year. Don Guanella is an Archdiocese of Philadelphia school in Springfield, Delaware County for boys with a wide variety of disabilities ranging in age from six to 21. This is the ninth year for the Thank You Carnival which will be held on
Thursday, May 25, 2000
3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Don Guanella School
Route 320
Springfield, Delaware County
There will be games, prizes and great food. The Philadelphia Kixx Soccer Team will be on hand plus there will be a performance from juggler Jeff Civillico, the International Junior Juggler of the Year. Y100 radio station will also be broadcasting live from the Thank You Carnival. All are invited and admission is free.
###
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
May 30, 2000
"The Class of 2000" is preparing for commencement. This year, the twenty-two Archdiocesan high schools are proud to be graduating 5,289 young men and women.
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will preside at the graduating ceremonies of Cardinal O'Hara High School on June 7th and St. John Neumann High School on June 10th.
Below is a list of the Graduation Ceremonies for the 22 Archdiocesan high schools, and the number of students each school is graduating.
Monday, June 5, 2000
Archbishop Ryan High School Graduation and Mass - 10:30 a.m.
Location: Villanova Pavilion, Villanova, Pa.
Students: 545
Presiding: Dr. Kathleen Cardamone, Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education
Archbishop Wood High School Graduation - 4:30 p.m.
Location: Villanova Pavilion, Villanova, Pa.
Students: 309
Presiding: Reverend James Beisel, Vicar for Bucks County
Tuesday, June 6, 2000
St. Maria Goretti High School for Girls Graduation - 11:00 a.m.
Location: Villanova Pavilion, Villanova, Pa.
Students: 181
Presiding: Bishop Robert P. Maginnis, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia
John W. Hallahan High School for Girls Graduation - 3:00 p.m.
Location: Villanova Pavilion, Villanova, Pa.
Students: 131
Presiding: Monsignor John T. Conway, Vicar for Philadelphia South
Wednesday, June 7, 2000
Kennedy-Kenrick Catholic High School Graduation - 10:00 a.m.
Location: Gwynedd Mercy College, Sumneytown Pike, Gwynedd, Pa.
Students: 158
Presiding: Dr. Kathleen Cardamone, Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education
Conwell-Egan Catholic High School Graduation - 11:30 a.m.
Location: Princeton University, Jadwin Gymnasium, Princeton, NJ
Students: 342
Presiding: Dr. Richard V. McCarron, Jr., Superintendent of Schools
Father Judge High School for Boys Graduation - 12:00 p.m. Noon
Location: Liacouras Center, 1776 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia
Students: 329
Presiding: Reverend Monsignor Francis Beach, Vicar for Philadelphia-North
Cardinal O'Hara High School Graduation - 3:00 p.m.
Location: Villanova Pavilion, Villanova, Pa.
Students: 354
Presiding: Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia
Thursday, June 8, 2000
Archbishop Prendergast High School for Girls Graduation - 10:00 a.m.
Location: Villanova Pavilion, Villanova, Pa.
Students: 239
Presiding: Monsignor Philip J. Cribben, Secretary for Catholic Education
St. Hubert High School for Girls Graduation - 3:00 p.m.
Location: Villanova Pavilion, Villanova, Pa.
Students: 342
Presiding: Bishop Joseph F. Martino, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia
Northeast Catholic High School for Boys - 4:00 p.m.
Location: Holy Family College, Grant and Frankford Avenues, Phila.
Students: 212
Presiding: Dr. Thomas F. O'Brien, Director of Secondary School Services
Friday, June 9, 2000
Cardinal Dougherty High School Graduation - 9:30 a.m.
Location: Cardinal Dougherty Auditorium,2nd St. and Godfrey Avenue, Phila.
Students: 222
Presiding: Dr. Richard V. McCarron, Jr., Superintendent of Schools
Monsignor Bonner High School for Boys Mass and Graduation - 10:00 a.m.
Location: Villanova Pavilion, Villanova, Pa.
Students: 221
Presiding: Mr. Thomas J. Smith, Director of Secondary Curriculum
Archbishop John Carroll High School Mass and Graduation - 11:00 a.m.
Location: Cabrini College, 610 King of Prussia Rd., Radnor, Pa.
Students: 242
Presiding: Reverend Thomas J. Smith, Vicar for Delaware County
Bishop Shanahan High School Graduation - 11:00 a.m.
Location: Shanahan H.S. Auditorium, 220 Woodbine Road, Downingtown, Pa.
Students: 207
Presiding: Reverend Monsignor James McDonough, Vicar for Chester County
Bishop McDevitt High School Graduation - 1:00 p.m.
Location: Keswick Theatre, Glenside, Pa.
Students: 220
Presiding: Reverend Monsignor John C. Marine, Vicar for Montgomery County
Little Flower High School for Girls Graduation -2 p.m.
Location: Holy Family College, Grant and Frankford Avenues, Philadelphia
Students: 181
Presiding: Reverend Monsignor Francis Beach, Vicar for Philadelphia-North
Roman Catholic High School for Boys Mass and Graduation - 6:30 p.m.
Location: Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul, 18th and Parkway, Phila.
Students: 192
Presiding: Reverend Monsignor Philip J. Cribben, Secretary for Catholic Education
Saturday, June 10, 2000
St. John Neumann High School for Boys Graduation - 9:00 a.m.
Location: Villanova Pavilion, Villanova, Pa.
Students: 140
Presiding: Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia
Lansdale Catholic High School Graduation - 10:00 a.m.
Location: Our Lady of Czestochowa Shrine, Ferry Road, Doylestown, Pa.
Students: 219
Presiding: Dr. Thomas F. O'Brien, Director of Secondary School Services
St.Pius X High School Graduation - 10:00 a.m.
Location: Immaculata College, Immaculata, Pa.
Students: 127
Presiding: Reverend Monsignor John C. Marine, Vicar for Montgomery County
West Catholic High School Mass and Graduation - 10:30 a.m.
Location: Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul, 18th and Parkway, Phila.
Students: 176
Presiding: Reverend Monsignor John T. Conway, Vicar for Philadelphia-South
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
June 2, 2000
"I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of former Governor Robert P. Casey. Governor Casey was a man deeply devoted to his family and to his Catholic faith. He was a compassionate public servant, who worked tirelessly for the people of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. During his long and notable political career, he served the people with courage and conviction, even while enduring serious and life threatening illness.
Governor Casey served unselfishly all his constituents, regardless of political affiliation. He was particularly mindful of those who could not help themselves, the poor, the elderly and children. He succeeded in providing programs for children in the areas of health, nutrition and insurance. Governor Casey will be remembered especially as a passionate defender of human life. He was responsible for the Pennsylvania Abortion Control Act which raised Pennsylvania to a position of being one of the most pro-life states in the nation.
I extend my deepest sympathy to his wife and eight children. I ask the faithful of the Archdiocese and all people of good will to pray for the happy repose of his soul," said Cardinal Bevilacqua.
Governor Casey took office in January of 1987, while Cardinal Bevilacqua was Bishop of the Diocese of Pittsburgh. Cardinal Bevilacqua, as Archbishop of Philadelphia, maintained a cordial relationship with Governor Casey. When Governor Casey fell ill this year, Cardinal Bevilacqua extended his prayerful support in a letter to him, dated May 15, 2000.
In a particularly poignant quote from an address delivered at the University of Notre Dame on April 6, 1995, the former Governor said, "Adherence to truth begins with the realization that the message of respect for human life is not just a religious message. It is a truth reflected not just in the Catholic religion, but in most organized religions. It is also a universal truth embraced by those of all faiths, and those of no faith."
###
Editor's Note: Cardinal Bevilacqua is out of the country on an archdiocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes and Fatima. It is uncertain if he will be able to attend Governor Casey's funeral Mass on Saturday.
Contact
Catherine L. Rossi
Director
215-587-3747
June 2, 2000
Saint Patrick Church, established in 1835 and the first Catholic church in Montgomery County, will host a Homecoming Celebration on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
2155-587-3747
June 6, 2000
St. Rita's Senior Citizen Center will host a celebration for 200 people who worked together to tell the history of South Philadelphia. The book title is: Struttin' Through Time - South Philly Style: Stories and Memories of South Philadelphia. St. Rita's Senior Center and St. Maria Goretti High School, both part of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, joined this effort, along with other schools, cultural and historical institutions.
Wednesday, June 7, 2000
1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
St. Rita's Senior Center
Broad and Ellsworth Streets
Philadelphia
As part of this project, school students interviewed senior residents from South Philadelphia, wrote biographies of seniors and researched community archives. The book also includes historical essays, one of which was written by Sister Rosalima Balutowska, CSFN, a volunteer at St. Rita's Center. This project began in 1995 as part of the Intergenerational Program at the Institute for Global Education and Service Learning (IGESL).
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
June 9, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, is pleased to announce the appointment of Reverend Kevin T. McMahon to the John Cardinal Krol Chair in Moral Theology at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary, Overbrook. This appointment takes effect June 19, 2000.
The John Cardinal Krol Chair in Moral Theology was established and inaugurated in January 1990 and is fully endowed by generous donors in order to promote the teaching of Catholic Moral Theology both in the Seminary and to the larger public in full fidelity to the Church's Magisterium. The holder of the John Cardinal Krol Chair in Moral Theology is a scholar of international repute who has published and will continue to publish extensively on moral theology topics. In his new role, Father McMahon will teach, lecture, author and edit articles and books for publication, and organize and conduct major symposia bringing together national and international scholars in the field. The John Cardinal Krol Chair in Moral Theology is a recognized enhancement of the Seminary's already prestigious programs of intellectual formation and is a continuing resource to the faculty of the Pontifical Theological Institute, recently established to confer Pontifical Degrees.
Father McMahon was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on November 25, 1949, a son of Stephen J. and Nancy (Woods) McMahon. He received his early education at Saint Rose of Lima Elementary School and Saint Thomas More High School, Philadelphia. He began studies for the priesthood at Saint Mary's College, Saint Mary, Kentucky and completed his theological training for the priesthood at the North American College, Rome. In Rome he studied at the Gregorian University and at the Accademia Alfonsiana. In 1987, he earned a Doctorate in Sacred Theology at the Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C.
He was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Wilmington by Pope Paul VI on June 29, 1975 at the Basilica of Saint Peter, Rome. He was first assigned as associate pastor at Saint Mary Magdalen Church, Sharpley, Wilmington, Delaware. In 1977, he was transferred as associate pastor to Saints Peter and Paul Church, Easton, Maryland. In 1982, he become associate pastor at Saint Francis de Sales Church, Salisbury, Maryland.
In 1983, he was appointed a professor of moral theology at Mount Saint Mary's Seminary, Emmitsburg, Maryland. In 1988, he was appointed a professor of moral theology at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary, Overbrook, Philadelphia where, until this appointment, he also served since 1996 as Academic Dean of the Theology Division and since 1999 as Dean of the new Pontifical Theological Institute. Father McMahon has lectured widely on specific topics in Moral Theology. He is the author of Sexuality: Theological Voices and a number of articles in theological journals.
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
June 15, 2000
The first-ever recital by students enrolled in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Catholic Institute for Evangelization music education program will take place on
Saturday, June 17, 2000
7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
St. Hugh of Cluny Parish Hall
Howard and Tioga Streets
Philadelphia
The recital will feature 24 performances by students. The Institute started the music education program this past February. The goal is to introduce children to music in a positive Christian environment. There are already 85 music makers, ranging in age from four to eighteen, enrolled in the music education program. The young musicians study piano, voice and guitar.
The Catholic Institute for Evangelization is located in North Philadelphia at 4404 N. Fifth Street. The Institute helps develop parish-based evangelization teams by generating pastoral formation programs for the faithful in North Philadelphia with a special focus on the Hispanic community.
To encourage these budding musicians, the Institute would welcome donations of used pianos and guitars. Flutes, violins and other instruments would also be appreciated because it is hoped that the program will expand.
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Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
June 19, 2000
Seven panels of the AIDS Quilt will be on view for three days at the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Office Center. Each panel is 12 feet by 12 feet and contains eight quilts done in memory of individuals who have died of HIV/AIDS.
Open House
Monday, June 26, 2000
5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Archdiocesan Office Center
222 N. 17th Street
Philadelphia
AIDS Quilt Display
Monday, June 26 - Wednesday, June 28, 2000
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Archdiocesan Office Center
222 N. 17th Street
Philadelphia
In 1989, Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, established the Department for AIDS Ministry which offers volunteer opportunities, support groups, prayer groups and retreat days all year round. The Archdiocese of Philadelphia through Catholic Social Services operates two residences for medically fragile adults, many of whom are living with HIV/AIDS.
It is estimated that over 33.6 million people are living with HIV/AIDS worldwide (UNAIDS/WHO, 12/99). In the United States, an average of at least one American under the age of 22 becomes infected with HIV every hour of every day (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 12/98).
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
June 21, 2000
Twelve high school students from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia will embark on a twelve day service program to Saint Michael Mission School in Arizona on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
June 22, 2000
Don Guanella Village will mark 40 years of service to the community with a concert and a homecoming reunion this weekend. Don Guanella is an Archdiocese of Philadelphia school in Springfield, Delaware County for boys with a wide variety of disabilities ranging in age from six to 21.
The concert will feature Chris Burke, a 1986 alumnus and the first actor with Down Syndrome to have a major role in a television series (Life Goes On) as well as Jeff Civillico, International Junior Juggler of the Year and the Don Guanella Wise Guys singers. Proceeds from the concert will help to refurbish the kitchen in one of the cottages.
Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
June 28, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, upon hearing of the Supreme Court decision that strikes down Nebraska's law banning partial-birth abortion said:
"I am profoundly saddened by the Supreme Court decision in Stenberg v. Carhart. In its ruling, the Supreme Court has taken the outrage of abortion itself one step further by opening the door to an even graver crime, the destruction of children literally inches and seconds from birth. This decision is indicative of the level to which our society has sunk in this 'culture of death,' that children can be killed in a manner so akin to infanticide.
The vast majority of all Americans oppose partial-birth abortions. This particularly barbaric procedure is unnecessary even in the case of danger to the mother's health. The American Medical Association has stated that the procedure is never medically necessary and it would not be recommended for a woman with a health problem.
A slim majority of the Court has denied the basic human right to life to the most vulnerable among us. The Catholic Church will continue its relentless opposition to all forms of abortion, especially this heinous crime against those who cannot protect themselves. We will be their voice and work with all people of good will to affirm life for all our citizens. We will oppose this and all other efforts that would destroy life, from the moment of conception to natural death, or that would attack the dignity of the human person.
I urge all people of good will to continue their efforts and maintain their trust that God will not abandon the helpless. I also urge legislators to continue in their struggle to defend life. We will pray that respect for human life will be the foundation of all decisions by our government officials and that our society will soon come to value and respect the life of every human being simply because he or she is a child of God."
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Contact
Donna Crilley
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747
June 29, 2000
St. Cyprian will be established as a new Parish in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and Reverend Monsignor Federico A. Britto will be installed as Pastor at a Mass of Thanksgiving on July 2, 2000. St. Cyprian Parish will be formed through the consolidation of St. Carthage Parish and Transfiguration of Our Lord Parish (56th Street and Cedar Avenue). The Pastoral Plan for Cluster 33, which was accepted by Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua in January 1998, called for the consolidation. The church for the new Parish will be at the site of the former St. Carthage Parish. The mass will take place
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
June 30, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, announces the names for two new parishes which will be officially established on Saturday, July 1, 2000.
Saint Elizabeth will be the name of the new parish in Upper Uwchlan Township, Chester County
(this is Elizabeth, cousin of the Virgin Mary and mother of Saint John the Baptist)
Our Lady of Guadalupe will be the name of the new parish in Buckingham Township, Bucks County
"The naming of a new parish is always a proud moment for its pastor and parishioners. The naming concretizes the efforts of all involved in the study, planning and establishment of these new parish communities. Now the people have a name to call their new church and parish," said Cardinal Bevilacqua.
The pastors of the new parishes are Reverend Monsignor Thomas M. Mullin, Saint Elizabeth Parish and Reverend Joseph J. Quindlen, Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish. The pastors recommended the names after consulting with the parishioners. Presently, there are no other parishes in the Archdiocese with these names. Cardinal Bevilacqua said, "I am happy to accept the recommendations of Monsignor Mullin and Father Quindlen and place these parishes under the protection of Saint Elizabeth in Chester County and Our Lady of Guadalupe in Bucks County. Much hard work lies ahead, but I am confident that the pastors and parishioners of these new parishes will work together to establish a fitting space to worship God and serve the needs of God's people."
Mass for Saint Elizabeth Parish, Chester County will take place temporarily at the Shamona Creek Elementary School on Dorlans Mill Road in Upper Uwchlan Township (pending Downingtown Area School District approval), beginning after Labor Day. Mass for Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Bucks County will take place temporarily on Saturdays at 5:30 p.m. and Sundays at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Doylestown.
Cardinal Bevilacqua announced the creation of the parishes on April 14, 2000. The recommendations for the new parishes originated with the Cluster Pastoral Plan of Cluster 30 in Bucks County (accepted by Cardinal Bevilacqua in July 1999) and the Cluster Pastoral Plan of Cluster 43 in Chester County (accepted by Cardinal Bevilacqua in May 1999).
Cluster Pastoral Planning began in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia in 1996. It is an outgrowth of Parish self-study and Parish planning which began in 1993. Cluster Pastoral Planning is a grassroots process in which priests, religious and lay people recommend the best way to use available resources to create a stronger Catholic church in their community.
ST. ELIZABETH PARISH
UPPER UWCHLAN TOWNSHIP
CHESTER COUNTY VICARIATE
NAME SELECTION
After consultation with parishioners, Monsignor Mullin recommended the name to Cardinal Bevilacqua
Parishioners expressed strong interest in a name connected to the Blessed Mother
Saint Elizabeth was Mary's cousin and John the Baptist's mother
PARISH FACILITIES' LOCATION
Intersection of Pottstown Pike (Route 100) and Fellowship Road in Upper Uwchlan Township
36 acre parcel
Land purchased from Pulte Homes Corporation Inc. in January 2000
The rectory will be located at 2 Fox Ridge Road, Glenmoore as of August 1, 2000
(Phone number to be announced)
BOUNDARIES
New parish territory is comprised of portions of:
Saint Basil the Great Parish (Kimberton)
Saint Joseph Parish (Downington)
Saint Peter Parish (Honey Brook)
Saints Philip & James Parish (Exton)
Students already enrolled in other parish schools may remain in those schools
PREP (Parish Religious Education Program) (CCD) students will remain in their current programs until the new pastor has adequate resources to support a program in the new parish
BUILDING
No building time line established
This will be a priority for Monsignor Mullin and parishioners
OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE PARISH
BUCKINGHAM TOWNSHIP
BUCKS COUNTY VICARIATE
NAME SELECTION
After consultation with parishioners, Father Quindlen recommended the name to Cardinal Bevilacqua
Our Lady of Guadalupe reflects continuity between the past and present, since both Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish and the new parish will be under the protection and patronage of Our Lady
Pope John Paul II concludes his apostolic exhortation, The Church in America, with the invocation "Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mother of America, pray for us!"
There are no other parishes in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia named in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe
PARISH FACILITIES' LOCATION
Northeast corner of Route 263/202 and Quarry Road in Buckingham Township
34 acre parcel
Land purchased from a private citizen in January 1997
Father Quindlen will reside temporarily at Regina Coeli Residence for Priests, 685 York Road in Warminster (Phone: 215-441-4642)
BOUNDARIES
New parish is comprised solely of territory from within the present boundaries of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, Doylestown
Expansion of facilities at Our Lady of Mount Carmel is not possible because parish-site is land-locked
BUILDING
No building time line established
This will be a priority for the Father Quindlen and parishioners
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
July 5, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will make a Pastoral Visit to the Philadelphia Detention Center and meet with the inmates on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
July 5, 2000
Don't miss this outdoor summer overnight for you and 1,999 of your friends! The Archdiocese of Philadelphia Office for Youth and Young Adults is sponsoring the largest Catholic youth rally ever!! An incredibly exciting event, featuring 5 great bands, barbecues, fireworks, amazing prayer under the stars, and Mass with Cardinal Bevilacqua! Teens that are entering their freshman year in high school through senior year are invited to
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
July 6, 2000
The Office for Human Relations of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia will host the Sixth Annual Awards and Recognition Reception for the Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD).
CCHD was started in 1970. It is the domestic anti-poverty, social justice program of the U.S. Bishops. Since 1970, the Campaign has been helping people to break the cycle of poverty and working toward an end to injustice. In the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, CCHD has helped to fund more than 100 different projects that have aided in breaking the chains of poverty. The recipients of this year's grants will be recognized at a reception on
Monday, July 10, 2000
6:00 p.m.
Archdiocesan Office Center - 13th Floor
222 North 17th Street
Philadelphia
The Catholic Campaign for Human Development funds projects in which members of the community work together to create jobs, improve education, develop small business and provide safe and affordable child care. Nationally, CCHD has distributed more than $250 million to over 3,500 community programs. Grants are awarded on the basis of need, not religious affiliation.
CCHD is funded in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia through donations by parishioners. The 1999 collection raised $350,000.
Some of the 2000 recipients in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia include groups that fight against the death penalty and those that develop business opportunities for low income people. Others work to improve salaries for low income wage earners, fight environmental pollution and empower marginalized members of the senior population.
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Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
July 10, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia,announces the founding of the Matt Talbot-Emmaus Center. The Center is designed to be a resource for anyone in need of the program of spirituality as presented in the twelve steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. Cardinal Bevilacqua said, "I am pleased to announce the founding of the Matt Talbot-Emmaus Center for recovering alcoholics. The Center promises to be a valuable asset on the long journey to recovery. A God-centered spirituality is a crucial part of this journey."
Statistics show that approximately ten percent of the total population is alcoholic. Alcoholism affects not only the alcoholic, but the entire community. According to Cardinal Bevilacqua, "The Matt Talbot-Emmaus Center is not only for those who are addicted, but for their families as well. Many people now have another place to turn to, a place where others will understand their problems and provide the support that is so crucial."
The Center is not a residential program. It will present day-long retreats, as well as days and evenings of reflection. Programs will be offered by people in recovery. Cardinal Bevilacqua said, "Alcoholism is a devastating disease. The Matt Talbot-Emmaus Center promises new life for those who are dependent on alcohol. With God's help and the support of the community, there is much hope."
Who was Matt Talbot?
The life of the venerable Matt Talbot has been an inspiration for alcoholics throughout the world. He was an alcoholic at an early age; every effort to stop drinking failed. When he was ready to despair, he stumbled into a Church and rediscovered his personal devotion to the Blessed Sacrament. This gave him strength to resist the temptation to drink. The depth of spirituality which came from Matt Talbot's sobriety has moved forward his cause for sainthood . It is hoped that naming the spirituality center after Matt Talbot will help alcoholics and at the same time support his cause for sainthood.
Emmaus refers to the town to which two disciples' of Jesus journeyed. The disciples were dejected after the events of Good Friday. Then Jesus appeared to them and assured them God would see them through this difficult time.
Where is the Center located?
The Matt Talbot-Emmaus Center occupies the rectory and school buildings of what had been previously Saint Hedwig's Parish at 24th and Brown Streets. (215-765-8550) The church at St. Hedwig's will remain a worship site for St. Francis Xavier Parish at 24th and Green Streets.
Who will direct the Center?
Reverend Monsignor William Dombrow has been appointed Director of the Center. Previously, for the past ten years, he served as pastor of Immaculate Conception parish at Front and Allen Streets. Presently, Monsignor Dombrow is Chairman of the Archdiocesan Priests' Committee on Alcoholism.
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Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
July 10, 2000
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia Office for Youth and Young Adults is sponsoring its largest Catholic youth rally ever!! An incredibly exciting event, featuring 5 great bands, barbecues, hot air balloon rides, fireworks, amazing prayer under the stars, and Mass with Cardinal Bevilacqua! A crowd of approximately 2,000 teens is expected to join in the festivities at
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
July 13, 2000
Business Leadership Organized for Catholic Schools (BLOCS) and the Stewards' Alliance (an organization of young adult Philadelphia Catholics whose primary goal is to help social service agencies and schools) are co-sponsoring free girls and boys basketball clinics on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
July 25, 2000
Fourteen high school students from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia will be greeted by their parents and friends, and participate in a special welcome-home liturgy after spending a week in Tijuana, Mexico helping to construct a new school for the needy. The liturgy will take place on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
July 26, 2000
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia invites delegates to the Republican National Convention and their guests to attend a special Mass as the Convention begins in Philadelphia. This will be a valuable opportunity for Catholic delegates to observe and reflect upon their faith as they begin the important work of the convention.
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
July 28, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, has accepted an invitation from the Republican National Committee and campaign of Texas Governor George W. Bush to give the closing prayer at the Republican National Convention.
The benediction, or blessing, will be given by the Cardinal from the stage of the convention floor at approximately 11:00 p.m., following the acceptance speech by Mr. Bush the evening of Thursday, August 3, 2000.
Text of the Cardinal's benediction will be available from the Office for Communications after 5:00 p.m. on August 3rd. Please call 215.587.3747 if you would like the text faxed to your newsroom.
Contact
Catherine L. Rossi
Director of Communications
215-587-3747
August 4, 2000
Five referees from the National Basketball Association will conduct a clinic for disabled young people at Don Guanella School on August 7, 2000. Don Guanella is an Archdiocese of Philadelphia school in Springfield, Delaware County for developmentally disabled youths ranging in age from six to 21.
The clinic will involve passing, shooting, and other skills. There will also be a three-point shooting contest and a question and answer period for the students.
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
August 4, 2000
The Most Reverend John Joseph Graham, D.D., S.T.D., retired Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia and Pastor Emeritus, Saint Helena Church, in the Olney section of Philadelphia, died today at Mercy Catholic Medical Center in Darby, Pennsylvania. He was 86 years old.
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia said, "I am deeply saddened by the death this morning of our beloved senior Bishop, Most Reverend John Joseph Graham, a devoted and zealous servant of the Church and a holy man of God. Bishop Graham's death is a significant loss to the people of Philadelphia and the faithful of the Archdiocese. His presence among us will be greatly missed.
Bishop Graham's legacy will reach far into the years ahead, as his untiring work in education, human relations, ecumenism and interfaith cooperation has left foundations of strength on which many of our programs have been secured. Bishop Graham will be remembered most particularly for his love and solicitude for children with mental disabilities. His profound trust in God, his humility in infirmity, especially during recent years, and his unceasing, resounding voice in behalf of God's people, have brought each of us a step closer to the God who created and sustains us all.
We raise our voices in thanksgiving to God for Bishop Graham, and the graces and blessings brought on us through his life and episcopacy. We ask that the people of Philadelphia remember him in their prayers."
John Joseph Graham was born September 11, 1913. He was one of seven children of Margaret and James Graham, both of whom immigrated to the United States from County Antrim, Ireland. He attended Saint Michael Parochial School in Philadelphia and received his high school education at Saint Joseph's Preparatory School in Philadelphia. After entering Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary, Wynnewood to begin studies for the priesthood, John Graham was sent as a seminarian to Saint John Lateran Seminary in Rome, where he received his Doctorate in Sacred Theology. John Graham was ordained to the priesthood on February 26, 1938, by the then Archbishop Luigi Traglia, at the Pontifical Roman Seminary in Rome.
Following his ordination to the priesthood, Father Graham served as Assistant Pastor, Saint Luke the Evangelist Church, Glenside (1939-1940); Faculty, Roman Catholic High School for Boys, Philadelphia (l940-l945); Assistant Pastor, Saint George Church, Glenolden (1945-1946); Assistant Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia (1946-1959); Superintendent of Special Education for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia (1959-1967). During this period many educational facilities were developed under Father Graham's direction to care for children with special learning needs. On September 12, 1959, Father Graham was named Domestic Prelate, with the title of Monsignor. Monsignor Graham served as Administrator, and later Pastor, of Holy Angels Church, Philadelphia (1960-1964). He was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia and Titular Bishop of Sabrata by Pope Paul VI on November 25, 1963 and was consecrated as Bishop on January 7, 1964. Bishop Graham was a member of the Archdiocesan School Board (1961-1966) and was Pastor, Saint Helena Church, Philadelphia (1964 to 1990). He was Archdiocesan Director, Catholic Charities Appeal (1964-1976); Chairman, Cardinal's Commission on Human Relations (1964-1982); and Member, College of Consultors (1964 to 1999), and Member, Council of Priests (1984 to 1999).
Bishop Graham is predeceased by his brother, Reverend James A. Graham, and five sisters, Sister Mary Assisium, C.R.S.M., Miss Mary J. Graham and Miss Catherine R Graham of Havertown; Mrs. John F. McCann of Pennwynne and Mrs. James P. Nolan of Pennwynne. The Bishop is survived by nieces Sister Christine McCann, R.S.M., of Merion; Sister Mercedes McCann, R.S.M., of Dunellen, NJ; Eileen Aurand of Havertown; and Peg Castagna of Havertown.
Funeral arrangements are as follows:
Wednesday, August 9th
1:30 p.m.
Reception of the Body and Mid-Day Prayer
St. Helena Roman Catholic Church
Fifth Street and Godfrey Avenue
Olney section of Philadelphia
2:00 p.m. Public Viewing
6:00 p.m. Celebration of Mass
Thursday, August 10th
9:00 a.m.
Reception of Body and Morning Prayer
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Center City Philadelphia
9:30 a.m. Public Viewing
2:00 p.m. Solemn Funeral Mass
followed by Internment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery
More details on funeral arrangements will be provided next week.
Contact
Catherine L. Rossi
Director of Communications
215-587-3747
August 7, 2000
The Holy Father, Pope John Paul II, is calling his young church to gather in Rome, August 11th to the 20th to celebrate World Youth Day. This international gathering of youth and young adults will be a unique opportunity to experience the universality of the Catholic church and is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of youth worldwide. Events are scheduled for every day while in Rome. Some of the highlights are: Friday, August 18th - Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, will meet with the Philadelphia pilgrims at Hotel Monte Mario for a prayer gathering; Saturday, August 19th - an evening prayer vigil with the Holy Father; Sunday, August 20th -concluding Mass with the Holy Father.
There will be a special Send-Off Mass for the pilgrims on:
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
August 9, 2000
Business Leadership Organized for Catholic Schools (BLOCS) and the Stewards' Alliance are sponsoring a "Back to School Bash" to benefit the Special Education Schools of the Archdiocese on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
August 18, 2000
Nutritional Development Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia will celebrate a milestone in helping children, when its Summer Food Service Program serves its One Millionth Meal of 2000. The One Millionth Meal is expected to be served
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
August 21, 2000
Cardinal Bevilacqua, extends his sympathy and prayers to the families and friends of those who perished on the sunken Russian submarine, Kursk.
"I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life aboard the Russian submarine Kursk. The deaths of these brave young sailors is especially heartbreaking. The entire world community feels the anguish and pain of the Russian people," said Cardinal Bevilacqua.
"I extend my sincerest condolences to the families of the 118 victims. I ask the faithful of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to join me in prayer for the repose of their souls and the comfort of their grieving families in their time of loss."
Cardinal Bevilacqua has been in Rome for World Youth Day celebrations. He remains out of the country at this time.
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Contact
Catherine L. Rossi
Director of Communications
215-587-3747
August 22, 2000
Coalition Ingenu, Saint John's Hospice and Project H.O.M.E. are proud to present the art work of Batsaihan Purveegiin. Mr. Purveegiin is an intelligent and educated man with a complex history of political activism, serious physical challenges, incarceration and homelessness.
The show features a unique collection of paintings and renderings of Mr. Purveegiin's beloved Mongolia as well as New York City street life and impressions of American politics.
Opening Reception
Thursday, August 24, 2000
5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Back Space and Back Home Café Galleries of Project H.O.M.E.
1515 Fairmount Avenue
Philadelphia
Show continues through September 30, 2000
Coalition Ingenu is a nonprofit organization that promotes artwork by people with histories of homelessness and/or mental illness. Saint John's Hospice and Project H.O.M.E. work with homeless people to help them establish more productive and meaningful lives.
Batsaihan Purveegiin initially discovered his talent and passion for art as part of a rehabilitation process to recover the use of his severely burned hands after an explosion at a power company in Mongolia. In 1991, Mr. Purveegiin received a $22,000 grant from the Mongolian People's Republic to study art at the Art Students League in New York City. He has since exhibited his work in several New York art galleries. When personal and political problems prevented his return to Mongolia, he became depressed, and ultimately homeless. Mr. Purveegiin currently resides at Saint John's Hospice and participates regularly in art classes at Saint John's and Project H.O.M.E.
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Editor's Note: For more information, contact Sister Virginia Herling at St. John's Hospice at
215-5633-7763 or contact Robert Bullock at Ingenu at 215-878-1825.
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
August 25, 2000
Schools bells will be ringing to welcome back to school students from throughout the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Approximately 107,000 students will be returning to parish elementary and Archdiocesan high schools. Elementary schools will open on Wednesday, September 6th. The Archdiocesan high schools have developed individual opening week schedules and students will follow a phase-in schedule on September 6th, 7th and 8th. Full student bodies will be in attendance on Monday, September 11th.
DID YOU KNOW???
According to statistics from the National Catholic Education Association, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia has the second largest enrollment in the nation. Chicago is first and New York is third.
The demand for part time and full time kindergarten is ever increasing. Single parents, working couples and stay-at-home mothers and fathers regard pre-kindergarten and kindergarten as a way to prepare their children for a better education. Throughout the Archdiocese 118 schools have pre-kindergarten programs and 108 have kindergarten programs.
SCHOOL NEWS!
PHILADELPHIA COUNTY
The five Port Richmond schools (St. Adalbert, Our Lady Help of Christians, Nativity, St. George and Mother of Divine Grace) will share an art teacher and plan to have activities every month in which parents, students, faculty and administration of the five schools will participate. One activity being planned by Our Lady Help of Christians is a Fall Festival for families the weekend of September 29-30.
St. Martin of Tours School on Roosevelt Boulevard will be 75 years old. A special Mass and reception are planned for November 12, 2000, with an Open House. All parishioners are invited as well as former teachers and graduates.
Holy Spirit in South Philadelphia is adding a Fine Arts program that includes art, music and dance for students in Kindergarten through 8th grade; also, an after school Spanish program for students 6th through 8th grade.
Stella Maris School in South Philadelphia has expanded the computer lab and due to increased enrollment is opening another second grade.
St. Cecilia's in Fox Chase will be celebrating its 75th anniversary. There will be a special Mass on October 29th followed by an Open House
John W. Hallahan Catholic Girls High School, the oldest diocesan Catholic girls high school in the country, will celebrate its 100th Anniversary with a special Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of Ss. Peter and Paul on September 26th at 8:30 a.m. Following the Mass, a fun day is planned for all students, including a talent show, games of sport, and refreshments.
Saint John Neumann High School in South Philadelphia welcomes a new president, Father Michael Olivere; a new school minister, Father Quan Tran; and a new theology teacher, Father James Otto. Comcast Cablevision is wiring the entire building for greater access to state of the art technology and is making it possible to install computer workstations in every classroom; students may participate in Neumann's CISCO Academy (Networking Specialist Certification Program).
Cardinal Dougherty High School is adding four new courses: Advanced Placement Spanish, Art, Theater, and Anatomy/Physiology. The school also upgraded four existing computer labs and increased the number of internet-available workstations to more than 200.
Mercy Vocational High School, the only Catholic vocational high school in the country, will celebrate its 50th Anniversary on Thursday, October 12.
BUCKS COUNTY
St. Agnes-Sacred Heart in Hilltown opens a new "state of the art" science lab thanks to the generosity of the Home & School Association and the Connelly Foundation.
Our Lady of Good Counsel in Southampton expanded its Fine Arts Program. It now includes multi-cultural and cross-curricular activities in Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Computer Graphics and introductory Spanish.
St. Thomas Aquinas in Croydon has a special parent/student project underway - painting Noah's Ark on the first floor corridor walls.
Holy Trinity in Morrisville added a new pre-kindergarten program and all of its classrooms and labs are Internet ready!
Our Lady of Grace in Penndel is expanding with a new half-day AM and PM kindergarten. Also a new Integrated Language Arts Program is being implemented.
Conwell-Egan Catholic High School will institute a Humanities Program whereby students will be exposed to inter-disciplinary modules which combine elements from standard academic courses with related arts instruction. Another innovating program Students and Teachers Achieving Results (STAR) is an academic enrichment program for students who have a desire to excel but may have experienced frustration and difficulties in the area of academics.
CHESTER COUNTY
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua will be on hand to bless St. Maximillian Kolbe's first school on Sunday, September 17 at 3:00 p.m. The new $4.5 million complex has a capacity for 400 children.
Holy Family School in Phoenixville experienced a substantial increase in enrollment of approximately 100 students over the last two years. The recently renovated library becomes fully automated as a result of a generous grant, enabling the school to wire the entire building to bring internet access to the classrooms.
St. Patrick School in Kennett Square will kick off this school year with a "Back to School" Mass on September 9th at 5:00 p.m. The Mass will be followed by a night of clowns and a magic show.
St. Cornelius in Chadds Ford will be breaking ground in September for a new school building to be completed in September 2001.
St. Thomas the Apostle in Glen Mills is opening a new school building. The two-story structure will house 16 classrooms and offices and will enable them to eventually double their enrollment. Dedication of the new building will be on Tuesday, September 5th at 7:00 p.m.
Bishop Shanahan High School in Downingtown is expanding after only two years of moving to its current location. Construction began in July and work should be completed by September of 2001. The addition will increase the capacity to 1600 students and provided additional parking.
DELAWARE COUNTY
Notre Dame de Lourdes in Swarthmore is once again planning projects for its service club "Kids for Kids in Jesus' Name." Last year more than 100 kids participated by preparing meals for the needy, reading to children in shelters, and collecting clothes.
St. Kevin's in Springfield has IMAC computers in every classroom, all internet accessible.
Saint Gabriel's in Norwood has added a full-day kindergarten program this year.
St. Andrew School in Drexel Hill is continuing their "Service Learning" projects. Last year they raised over $5,000 to aid in research for multiple sclerosis, and bought mittens, hats and scarves for the needy.
Archbishop Prendergast High School received a $135,000 grant from the Connelly Foundation for the establishment of a Fine Arts Center. This multi-disciplined Center will feature state of the art computer lab for use by related arts classes along with fine arts, chorus and orchestra classes.
Archbishop John Carroll High School is unveiling a new Business Technology curriculum for incoming freshman. Advanced placement Geography, advanced placement Environmental Science, and a new Journalism course is being added.
MONTGOMERY COUNTY
Two consolidated schools in Montgomery County are thriving due to combined efforts - Conshohocken Catholic School (1996 consolidation of parish schools of St. Matthew, Ss. Cosmas and Damian and St. Mary) boasts a state of the art computer program, the addition of an art program and music program. Holy Trinity Catholic School (since 1998, serving the students of St. Augustine, Our Lady of Mount Carmel and Sacred Heart parishes) boasts its own web site, two computer labs, a school band and music program, and a very active Home & School Association.
St. Mary School in Schwenksville Kindergarten class is seeing double with 4 sets of twins enrolled in their Kindergarten class. With only 50 students in the kindergarten class, this is amazing!
St. Alphonsus in Maple Glen is continuing their unbelievable service activities this year, last year they raised $9,800 for the Heart Association and $850 for a youth center in Romania.
Visitation B.V.M. in Norristown were winners of the KYW News Radio computer contest and recently received ten new computers. Also, this year Visitation will sponsor a Girls Junior Varsity Field Hockey team.
Lansdale Catholic High School will conclude its 50th anniversary this year with a Mass on October 15, followed by a dinner at the William Penn Inn.
Kennedy-Kenrick Catholic High School in Norristown offers all students drama, art, vocal, instrumental and music programs, as well as advanced placement classes. The school boasts a new state of the art technology lab.
SPECIAL EDUCATION
Queen of the Universe Day Center in Levittown is celebrating the school's 20th anniversary. For a service project, the students are raising a "Seeing Eye Puppy."
Students ages 15 to 21 from St. Katherine Day School in Wynnewood will attend classes at Archbishop Carroll High School in Radnor this fall as part of a program to enhance socialization and vocational opportunities. St. Katherine's is a school for special-needs students..
STATISTICS FROM THE 1999-2000 SCHOOL YEAR
Last year, enrollment for parish elementary schools in the Archdiocese was 82,935. The enrollment for Archdiocesan high schools was 23,178. 2000-2001 enrollment figures will not be available until the end of October.
# # #
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
August 25, 2000
The private and parochial school sector of the Attorney General's Task Force on School Safety will hold a public hearing on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
August 25, 2000
I am deeply distressed by the newly-released National Institutes of Health (NIH) guidelines, which lift the moratorium on embryonic stem-cell research. The new guidelines, effective today , allow federally funded scientists to conduct research on human embryo cells.
The Catholic church is not opposed to adult stem cell research or stem cell research on umbilical cords because these procedures do not endanger life. Embryonic stem cell research, however, requires the killing of embryonic human life and is therefore totally reprehensible and unacceptable. The only way to acquire the embryonic stem-cells is to destroy a human life. Must we end one human life attempting to benefit another?
Even the good that embryonic stem-cell research promises is questionable. There are alternatives that are more effective and create no moral dilemmas. It is far more desirable to explore the direct use of human cells of adult origin to produce specialized cells for transplantation into patients. Research shows that adult stem-cells could be as or more effective because these cells do not carry the risk of rejection.
Research to treat a wide range of diseases and disorders that afflict many people is, of course, a noble venture, but never at the expense of human life. It is absolutely forbidden to directly destroy one innocent human being to help another. As rational human beings, our responsibility is to find alternate ways to treat these horrific diseases that plague humankind, ways that do not make unborn children expendable nor devalue human life.
The NIH guidelines conflict with the consciences of millions of Americans who believe that human life begins at conception. Reprehensible, too, is the use of taxpayer money to fund stem cell research that will cause the destruction of human embryos. Paying for the research with taxpayer money makes citizens a party to a cause that they do not necessarily support.
The NIH decision also ignores valid concerns of many religious leaders and ethicists. The alleged good that could result from research on stem cells from human embryos does not justify the immoral techniques by which they are attained. One can never justify the killing of a human embryo - a human person - to produce even a certain good. The killing of a human embryo is an act so heinous that no motive, however good, and no circumstances, however noble, can justify it. This type of research is an offense to the dignity of the human person.
Science must diligently search for cures to the diseases and disorders that plague so many people, but in a way that protects life and respects the dignity of each human being. Current research, such as the study published August 15 in the Journal of Neuroscience Research, offers alternatives that are ethically and morally permissible with promising benefits for many people.
###
Contact
Catherine L. Rossi
Director of Communications
215-587-3747
August 29, 2000
The T.O.D.A.Y. (Transforming Opportunities for Disabled Adults and Youth) Theater Program is presenting its eighth annual production. This year's production, "Today's Theater 2000 - Celebrating Yesterday, Today," will be presented on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
September 1, 2000
Most Reverend Joseph F. Martino, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, will celebrate a Mass of Thanksgiving for Religious Jubilarians
Sunday, September 10, 2000
11:00 a.m.
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA
271 religious sisters, priests and brothers in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia will celebrate their Silver, Golden, or Diamond Anniversaries in 2000. These 271 religious represent 14,410 years of dedicated witness and service to the Catholic Church.
Sister Ursula Infante will be among those attending the Mass. Sister Ursula is 103 years old and is celebrating her 85th year as a Missionary Sister of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. She is the foundress of Cabrini College and will be a gift-bearer at the liturgy.
There are five Diamond Jubilarians (75 years) in 2000. Two of those sisters will be in attendance: Sister Alphonsa Szcepanek, C.S.F.N. and Sister Rita Geraldine Smith, S.S.J.
Following the Mass, a reception for the Jubilarians and their guests will be held on the portico of the Archdiocesan Office Center, 222 North Seventeenth Street, Philadelphia.
###
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
September 5, 2000
A news blackout imposed on Friday evening, September 1st has been lifted. Negotiators representing the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and the Association of Catholic Teachers worked over the Labor Day weekend and remained at the bargaining table from 10:30 a.m. Monday, September 04 until 1:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 05, but failed to reach a tentative contract agreement.
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia presented the Association of Catholic Teachers with a three-year contract offer, which it believes is fair and equitable. The proposal includes:
- for the average teacher, a salary increase of 4.1% in the first year of the contract, 3.5% in the second year of the contract and 3.5% in the third year of the contract
Currently, the average annual teacher salary for Archdiocesan high school teachers is $38,737.
The proposed increase would raise the average teacher salary to $40, 321 in the first year of the contract, $41,747 in the second year of the contract and $43,185 in the third year of the contract.
- there would be no change in employee medical contributions in the first year of the contract
- for those enrolled in Personal Choice, doctor co-payments would increase from $5.00 to $10.00 and prescription co-payments would increase from $5.00 to $10.00 for generic drugs and from $10.00 to $15.00 for brand name drugs
- any increase in employee monthly medical contributions would depend on the increase implemented by our insurance carrier. The Archdiocese has no way of knowing from its insurance carriers exactly how much medical premiums will increase over the next several years. Employee monthly medical contributions would increase by $.50 (for individual coverage) and $1.00 (for full family coverage) for every percentage point that the cost of Personal Choice increases
For example: Currently, under Personal Choice, a teacher pays $12.00 a month for individual coverage and $45.00 a month for full family coverage. These contributions would not change in the first year. During the second and third years of the contract, if the cost of Personal Choice increases 6%, a teacher would pay $15.00 a month for individual coverage and $51.00 for full family coverage. If the cost of Personal Choice increases 10%, a teacher would pay $17.00 a month for individual coverage and $55.00 for full family coverage.
"We think our contract offer balances the need to give a reasonable salary increase and benefits package to our teachers, while enabling the Archdiocese to contain the cost of tuition. When tuition increases, enrollment declines. We have kept tuition increases at just $100 a year for the last five years. We need to maintain enrollment and continue to attract more students to keep our Catholic high schools healthy and viable," said Catherine L. Rossi, Director of Communications.
# # #
Contact
Cathy Rossi
Director
215-587-3747
September 5, 2000
At a union membership meeting this morning, the Association of Catholic Teachers accepted a contract proposal from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Just prior to the teachers' meeting this morning, the Archdiocese made its final offer:
- For the average teacher, a salary increase of 4.18% in the first year of the contract, 4.06% in the second year of the contract and 4.07% in the third year of the contract
This translates to an annual average salary increase of $1618.00 in the first year of the contract, $1638.00 in the second year of the contract and $1708.00 in the third year of the contract
Currently, the average annual teacher salary for Archdiocesan high school teachers is $38,737. The proposed increase would raise the average teacher salary to $40,355 in the first year of the contract, $41,992 in the second year of the contract and $43,700 in the third year of the contract.
- There would be no change in employee medical contributions in the first year of the contract
- There are increases in doctor and prescription co-payments. For example, for those enrolled in Personal Choice, doctor co-payments would increase from $5.00 to $10.00 and prescription co-payments would increase from $5.00 to $10.00 for generic drugs and from $10.00 to $15.00 for brand name drugs
- Any increase in employee monthly medical contributions would depend on the increase implemented by our insurance carrier. The Archdiocese has no way of knowing from its insurance carriers exactly how much medical premiums will increase over the next several years. In years two and three of the contract, employee monthly medical contributions would increase by $.50 (for individual coverage) and $1.00 (for full family coverage) for every percentage point that the cost of Personal Choice increases (up to ten percent)
For example: Currently, under Personal Choice, a teacher pays $12.00 a month for individual coverage and $45.00 a month for full family coverage. These contributions would not change in the first year. During the second and third years of the contract, if the cost of Personal Choice increases 6%, a teacher would pay $15.00 a month for individual coverage and $51.00 for full family coverage. If the cost of Personal Choice increases 10%, a teacher would pay a maximum of $17.00 a month for individual coverage and $55.00 for full family coverage.
"We are extremely pleased that the teachers' union accepted our contract offer. This contract provides teachers with a fair and equitable salary increase and benefits package while balancing our need to contain the cost of tuition for our parents and students," said Catherine L. Rossi, Director of Communications.
# # #
Contact
Cathy Rossi
Director
215-587-3747
September 5, 2000
I am extremely pleased that the Association of Catholic Teachers has accepted the contract proposal offered by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. I thank the members of the Archdiocesan negotiating team and all who worked tirelessly at the bargaining table to reach this settlement.
Quality teachers are our most valuable resource. We are blessed to have hundreds of dedicated teachers in the Archdiocese. I want our teachers to know how much I appreciate their commitment to our students and to our schools.
I am also mindful of the financial burdens of the parents of our students who make many sacrifices to send their children to Catholic schools. We will always work to keep tuition affordable.
The timely acceptance of this new contract allows the new school year to begin in a positive spirit of mutual cooperation and good will.
###
Contact
Cathy Rossi
Director
215-587-3747
September 11, 2000
Reverend Monsignor John C. Marine, Vicar for Montgomery County, announces that the parishes of Cluster 71 will come together for a mass and reception to reflect upon the acceptance of the Cluster Pastoral Plan by Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia. Cluster Planning is a prayerful, reflective process which addresses the changing needs of the Church.
Tuesday, September 12, 2000
7:30 p.m. Mass
St. Matthew Church
3rd Avenue & Fayette Street
Conshohocken, PA
Reception immediately following
St. Matthew Church Hall
Celebrant and Homilist for the Mass will be Rev.Msgr. John Marine. All of the priests in Cluster 71 are invited to concelebrate the Mass. The ten parishes of Cluster 71 are:
Mother of Divine Providence
SS. Cosmas and Damian
Our Mother of Mt. Carmel
St. Gertrude
Our Mother of Sorrows
St. Mary
Sacred Heart
St. Matthew
St. Augustine
St. Philip Neri
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
September 12, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will be available to discuss the upcoming Canonization of Katharine Drexel on
Contact
Catherine L. Rossi
Director
215-587-3747
September 12, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will be a guest on WWDB 96.5 FM during morning drive time. The Cardinal will be interviewed by hosts Pat Farnak and Earl Bailey and will answer listeners' questions.
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
September 13, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will bless the new parish elementary school on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
September 14, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will dedicate Casa Carmen Aponte, an elderly affordable supportive housing project in North Philadelphia. Casa Carmen Aponte is jointly sponsored by Catholic Social Services and the Norris Square Civic Association. The ceremony will consist of a brief prayer service, remarks and a ribbon cutting.
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
September 15, 2000
Reverend Joseph J. Quindlen, pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Buckingham Township (Bucks County), announces that members of the parish will worship at Central Bucks High School -East beginning Sunday, October 8, 2000. Masses will be celebrated on Sunday mornings at 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., and 11:30 a.m. Central Bucks High School - East is located at 2804 Holicong Road in Buckingham Township.
Members of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish will continue to worship at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Doylestown on Saturdays at the 5:30 p.m. vigil Mass.
It is necessary to have temporary locations available for parishioners to attend Mass until parish facilities are built for worship.
Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish was established as a new parish in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia by Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua on July 1, 2000. Bucks County has experienced tremendous growth in recent years and projections indicate a 67.3 percent increase in population in Buckingham Township from 1990 to 2020.
# # #
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
September 19, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will preside at the annual Puerto Rican Festival Mass. The Mass is an opportunity for the local Puerto Rican community to celebrate its faith and culture.
Thursday, September 21, 2000
Rosary Procession
6:30 p.m.
Logan Square
Puerto Rican Festival Mass
7:30 p.m.
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia
The Most Reverend Tnaki Mallona Txertudi will be the homilist. He is the Bishop of the Diocese of Arecibo, Puerto Rico. In 1999 the Archdiocese of Philadelphia started a Mission at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in the Diocese of Arecibo, in Barceloneta, Puerto Rico. Two priests from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, Reverend William S. Murphy and Reverend Scott D. Brockson, are assigned to the Mission and operate it as a parish of the Archdiocese.
The 23 parishes of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia that have Hispanic Ministry will participate in this traditional event.
###
Editor's Note: All Archdiocesan news releases are available at www.archdiocese-phl.org.
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
September 20, 2000
Katharine Drexel, foundress of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, is now a Saint of the Roman Catholic Church. Pope John Paul II canonized Katharine Drexel during a ceremony in Saint Peter's Square in Rome this morning. Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, concelebrated the Mass which was attended by thousands, including more than 2000 pilgrims from the Philadelphia area.
Other scheduled concelebrants included:
Most ReverendFrancis Schulte, Archbishop of New Orleans
Most Reverend Martin Lohmuller, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia
Most Reverend Robert Maginnis, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia
Most Reverend Joseph Martino, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia
Most Reverend Donald Pelotte, Bishop of Gallup, New Mexico
Most Reverend Moses Anderson, Auxiliary Bishop of Detroit
Reverend Monsignor Alexander Palmieri, Vice-Postulator of the Mother Katharine Drexel Cause
Those scheduled to receive Holy Communion from the Pope included:
Sister Monica Loughlin, President of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament
Mr. Robert Gutherman, Recipient of miracle after Katharine Drexel's intercession
Miss Amy Wall, Recipient of miracle after Katharine Drexel's intercession
Dr. Norman C. Francis, President, Xavier University (founded by Katharine Drexel)
Ms. Helena Begay, Native American, Farmington, New Mexico
Katharine Drexel was born into the wealthy Drexel banking family in Philadelphia in1858. She died in 1955. During her lifetime, Katharine used her fortune to help poor Native and African American people, founding nearly sixty-five schools and missions. Her order, the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, continues her work today.
The Holy Father beatified Katharine Drexel on November 20, 1988, bestowing upon her the title of "Blessed," after decreeing that the restoration of Robert Gutherman's hearing, attributed to Katharine Drexel's intercession, was miraculous. On January 27, 2000, the Holy Father decreed that the healing of Amy Wall's hearing, also attributed to Mother Katharine's intercession, was a miracle as well. (Robert Gutherman and Amy Wall are from Bucks County, PA)
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
September 21, 2000
Reverend Monsignor John C. Marine, Vicar for Montgomery County, announces that the parishes of Cluster 76 will come together for a mass and reception to reflect upon the acceptance of the Cluster Pastoral Plan by Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia. Cluster Planning is a prayerful, reflective process which addresses the changing needs of the Church.
Contact
John L. Cox
Communications Assistant
215-587-3747
September 22, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will celebrate a Mass of Thanksgiving for the100th Anniversary of John W. Hallahan Catholic Girls High School on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
September 26, 2000
On the official pilgrimage organized by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, there are 1333 pilgrims from all over the United States. These pilgrims will travel to Rome to witness the canonization of Blessed Katharine Drexel by Pope John Paul II on October 1, 2000. All depart from various airports on the evening of Wednesday, September 27th and arrive in Rome on Thursday, September 28th. There are also hundred of people from the United States attending the canonization who are not on the official pilgrimage.
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, along with 140 of those pilgrims will depart from Philadelphia International Airport on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
September 28, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, issued the following statement on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval for the use of the drug RU486-Mifeprex:
"I am dismayed that today the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved for use the drug RU486- Mifeprex (mifepristone) for use in combination with the drug misoprostal, as a form of drug induced abortion. Not only are we looking at another method of taking innocent human life, but these drugs have the potential to be harmful to the health of the mother. When taken in the 5th to 7th week of pregnancy, RU486-Mifeprex blocks the action of the progesterone hormone, causing the lining of the uterus to disintegrate, thereby starving the unborn baby to death. Misoprostal, an artificial prostaglandin, initiates uterine contractions thereby leading to the embryonic baby being expelled from the uterus.
The FDA has proposed a number of restrictions, such as: it can only be prescribed by a physician trained to assess the gestational age of the baby and to diagnose ectopic pregnancies. In spite of these restrictions, this drug remains detrimental to the health of women. RU486-Mifeprex poses risks to women from incomplete abortion, infection and excessive bleeding. The use of RU486-Mifeprex has been debated for the last nine years and has created an enormous amount of controversy among drug companies and physicians. It is morally wrong to take the life of an unborn child and it is ethically wrong for controversial and harmful drugs to be administered to women who are pregnant.
Today, with the approval of RU486-Mifeprex, another assault begins on unborn babies and possibly the mothers. Life is a gift from God and we must as a nation protect and respect this life from conception to a natural death."
# # #
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
October 3, 2000
Approximately 1400 pilgrims from the official pilgrimage organized by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament will be returning from Rome after witnessing the canonization of Saint Katharine Drexel by Pope John Paul II on October 1, 2000.
Following is the arrival information:
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
October 9, 2000
The Saint Thomas More Society of Philadelphia, an organization for members of the legal profession, is sponsoring the 49th Annual Red Mass on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
October 13, 2000
More than 800 teens will participate in Youthfest 2000, a spiritual and fun-filled gathering of high school students sponsored by The Office for Youth and Young Adults of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
October 13, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, is asking the faithful of the Archdiocese to pray for peace in the violence-torn Middle East.
Cardinal Bevilacqua said, "I am deeply disturbed by the escalation of violence in the Middle East. The renewed tension and fighting on both sides is cause for genuine concern for the entire world. I am particularly distressed for the loss of innocent life and the victims of senseless violence.
It is with great sadness that I learned of the brutal act of terrorism against the United States Naval Destroyer, the USS Cole, refueling in Yemen on the morning of October 12. I ask the faithful of the Archdiocese to pray for the American sailors who were killed and those who are missing. My prayers are with their families. I also ask all people of good will to pray for peace and a quick termination to the bloodshed and killing throughout this part of the world.
We cannot give up hope for a lasting peace in the Middle East. I pray that the Palestinian and Israeli people will call an immediate cease-fire and return to the negotiating table, so that their differences can be addressed and resolved."
# # #
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
October 13, 2000
Saint Gabriel's Hall, an Archdiocese of Philadelphia residential program for adjudicated boys, will receive a grant in the amount of $750,000 from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The grant will be used towards major renovations to the 100 year old facility. The check will be presented by Senator Richard Tilghman of Montgomery County, Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee. (Saint Gabriel's Hall is located in Senator Tilghman's legislative district.)
Reverend Monsignor Timothy Senior, Executive Director of Catholic Social Services and Brother Robert Kinzler, Executive Director of the Saint Gabriel's System, will accept the check on behalf of Catholic Social Services and Saint Gabriel's Hall.
Tuesday, October 17, 2000
11:00 a.m.
Check Presentation and News Conference
Saint Gabriel's Hall
1350 Pawlings Road
Audubon, PA
Saint Gabriel's Hall was established in 1898 and is part of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia's Catholic Social Services. Saint Gabriel's System provides care and rehabilitation services for adjudicated boys, ages 12 to 17. Saint Gabriel's Hall is the comprehensive residential program of Saint Gabriel's System. Saint Gabriel's Hall is conducted by the Christian Brothers.
Saint Gabriel's Hall served more than 400 boys in 1999 and was named "Residential Program of the Year" for 1999 by the Juvenile Court Judge's Commission and the Pennsylvania Council of Juvenile Probation Officers.
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
October 13, 2000
The Villanova women's varsity basketball team will conduct a clinic for the boys of Don Guanella School and the men of the Cardinal Krol Center. Don Guanella is an Archdiocese of Philadelphia school in Springfield, Delaware County for boys with a wide variety of disabilities ranging in age from six to 21. The Cardinal Krol Center is an Archdiocese of Philadelphia facility for men with developmental disabilities.
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
October 17, 2000
Parishioners from the entire five county Archdiocese of Philadelphia area will come to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia on October 22, 2000 to give public witness to their faith in Jesus Christ. The entire Jubilee Year of 2000 is dedicated to the true presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist.
Sunday, October 22, 2000
5:30 p.m. - Opening Liturgy of Word with Exposition of Blessed Sacrament
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
6:15 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. - Eucharistic Candlelight Procession
Begins at Logan Circle
Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Wednesday, October 18, 2000
6:30 p.m.
Rehearsal for Choir of 1,000 Voices
and 200 member Orchestra
Cardinal O'Hara High School
Route 320
Springfield, Delaware County
Parishioners will line the Parkway as a mobile platform processes from Logan Circle to Bingswanger Triangle near the Philadelphia Museum of Art and then returns to the area near the war memorials (see attached). There will be an altar on the mobile platform that will carry the Blessed Sacrament (the consecrated bread when it becomes the Body of Jesus Christ). Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will preside from the platform as it is escorted by approximately 4,000 people (see attached), including representatives bearing food for the hungry, the result of an Archdiocesan wide food drive. There will be three stations where the platform will stop for liturgies (twenty minutes each). The parishioners lining the Parkway will be able to hear all of the services through amplification systems.
Facts about the Eucharistic Candlelight Procession:
25 to30,000 parishioners expected to attend from five counties
400 buses ordered
Choir of 1,000 Voices from parishes, religious communities and high schools
Blessed Sacrament will be on a 40 foot flatbed. It will be escorted by parish representatives (two from each parish), clergy, religious superiors, seminarians and high school representatives.
A sacred vessel called a monstrance will hold the Blessed Sacrament
Eucharist means "Thanksgiving"
Schedule:
1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Choir of 1,000 Voices rehearses (Choir located on Logan Circle along with 200 member orchestra)
3:00 p.m. Parkway closes
4:00 p.m. Choir of 1,000 Voices resumes singing
5:30 p.m. Opening liturgy begins in the Cathedral (approximately 20 minutes)
5:50 p.m. Those accompanying mobile platform take places
6:15 p.m. Candles are lighted; Procession begins
7:45 p.m. Procession concludes
Procession:
Procession will travel down the inbound lane of the Parkway to Eakin's Oval, around Eakins Oval to Binswanger Triangle
First Station: Liturgy will take place between the South Korea and Ivory Coast flags (between 22nd and 23rd Streets)
Second Station: Liturgy will take place between the New Zealand and Netherlands flags (between 21st and 22nd Streets)
Third Station (Conclusion): Liturgy will take place between the Puerto Rico and Denmark Flags (between 20th and 21st Streets)
Media Locations:
Opening liturgy in Cathedral: An audio/video feed will be provided at the mult-box location in the Archdiocesan parking lot. A Communications Staff member will be available to assist. You will need a BNC connector and a recording deck. Television cameras will not be allowed in the Cathedral but reporters and still cameras will be allowed.
Media Riser at Logan Circle will have mult-box and power source
Media Riser at Binswanger Triangle will have mult-box and power source
Media Riser between 20th and 21st Streets will not have mult-box or power
Media Riser between 21st and 22nd Streets will not have mult-box or power
Rehearsal:
Wednesday, October 18th at 6:30 p.m.
Location: Cardinal O'Hara High School in Springfield, Delaware County
Kindly contact Donna Crilley in the Office for Communications (215-587-3747)
if you plan to attend
Contacts at Rehearsal are Rev. Msgr. John Marine, Vicar for Montgomery County and Rev. Thomas Smith, Vicar for Delaware County
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
October 18, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, issued a 12 page booklet today of pastoral reflections on Catholic health care as the new millennium begins. The release of Pastoral Reflections on Catholic Health Care coincides with the Feast of Saint Luke, Evangelist and Physician, on October 18th. In presenting an advance copy to the Delaware Valley Catholic Health Care Alliance on October 13, 2000, Cardinal Bevilacqua said, "I believe that it is opportune for me to make a pastoral statement regarding Catholic health care not only for the encouragement and benefit of those working in the ministry, but also for the Catholic community and, really the entire community of this region."
The four goals of Pastoral Reflections on Catholic Health Care are: to explain why the Church is involved in health care; to affirm and offer pastoral guidance and encouragement to all who work in Catholic health care; to offer a brief explanation of the current crisis in health care and point out how the changes in health care are affecting Catholic providers and therefore having an effect on that important dimension of the ministry of the Church and to rally support for reforms ensuring that Catholic health care remains vigorous.
It is estimated that in the United States one in five persons receives health care from a Catholic provider (Lewin Group analysis of 1998 American Hospital Association data). There are currently eight Catholic acute-care hospitals in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and 14 long-term, or skilled-care nursing facilities. In addition, Catholic health care has diversified to include home health services, parish nursing and community-based ambulatory care centers. (Acute-care facilities are generally sponsored by religious congregations of women. The Archdiocese, through Catholic Health Care Services, manages the operations of five skilled-care nursing facilities with a total of 1,100 beds.)
Pastoral Reflections on Catholic Health Care will be widely distributed to all Archdiocesan priests who will be encouraged to disseminate it among their parishioners. Copies will also be sent to all of the sponsoring religious congregations, health system senior managers, Catholic health care administrators and public officials. Cardinal Bevilacqua stated that, "Catholic health care is an important expression of the mission of the church, and like all of health care, Catholic health care is facing serious challenges at this time. I hope that this statement helps our Catholic people to know that the changes in health care and the need for reform of our health care system are concerns of the church and so should be concerns of all Catholics."
###
Those available to discuss Pastoral Reflections on Catholic Health Care include Rev. Msgr. Timothy Senior, Secretary for Catholic Human Services and Judy Passerini, Deputy Secretary for Catholic Health Care Services,
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
October 31, 2000
The Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) Parish Youth Ministry is sponsoring a special Liturgy for young athletes and their coaches on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
October 30, 2000
Contact
Catherine L. Rossi
Director of Communications
215-587-3747
November 6, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will celebrate the 38th annual Mass in honor of Saint Martin de Porres, Saint of Universal Brotherhood.
Thursday, November 9, 2000
7:30 p.m.
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia
The homilist will be the Most Reverend George V. Murry, S.J., Bishop of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands. Bishop Murry was born in Camden, New Jersey, attended St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia and St. Mary's Seminary and University in Baltimore, Maryland. Bishop Murry is presently Chairman of the Bishops' Committee on African American Catholics.
Saint Martin de Porres was born in Lima, Peru, in the 16th century, the son of a Spanish nobleman and a Black woman of Panama who was a freed slave. He became a Dominican brother and devoted his life to caring for the poor and the sick. Pope John XXIII canonized Martin de Porres in 1962.
The Mass which celebrates Saint Martin de Porres is organized by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Office for Black Catholics. People of all faiths are invited to attend this Mass of Unity and Brotherhood.
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Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
November 13, 2000
Sixteen Catholic Youth Organization grade school basketball teams (8 boys teams, 8 girls teams) will participate in the John Redmond Memorial Basketball Tournament on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
November 14, 2000
The Office for Youth and Young Adults of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia will hold a Thanksgiving Dance for members of the T.O.D.A.Y. Program (Transforming Opportunities for Disabled Adults and Youth) on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
November 17, 2000
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia is now collaborating with America Online to enable more people to access the BlessMe.org web site. Through prominent anchor placement on a commercial search engine (AOL), the BlessMe.org site is easier for people to find. Since March 1, 1999 there have been almost 40,000 visitors to the site. (The BlessMe web site is an extension of the BlessMe Line which was started by Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, in November 1998. The 1-877-BlessMe toll free line is answered by priests and is for those who have questions about their faith or Church teaching.)
In addition to placement on the search engine, BlessMe.org will also be part of AOL's Digital City Philadelphia web site (www.digitalcity.com). A rotating banner will advertise the BlessMe site under the health and fitness section. Currently our banner reads: Christmas - A Great Time to Come Home and provides a link to the BlessMe site. This banner also rotates on other Digital City Philadelphia pages. This began on November 1, 2000.
Pope John Paul II has called for new methods of evangelization. At the direction of Cardinal Bevilacqua, the Archdiocese continues to attempt to make full use of the available technology with electronic evangelization. Towards this end, the Archdiocese also plans to hold controlled chat room discussions beginning in January. (Details are being finalized.)
What do you find when you visit the recently reworked BlessMe site? Visitors can learn about the Catholic Catechism, find Readings and Psalms, locate Jubilee Churches and Shrines and read about the parish-based Disciples in Mission program. Visitors can also explore their faith through Disciples on the Internet. This innovative program allows visitors to e-mail a question about morality or Church teaching that will be answered by a priest. Since March of 1999, over nine thousand questions have been answered. A library of frequently asked questions is also available on the site.
The Jubilee Year and the years leading up to it have been a time of great renewal for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and the efforts continue:
-Christmas - A Great Time to Come Home: Television, radio, print and billboard advertising encouraging people to visit BlessMe.org or call the BlessMe Line
-Reconciliation 2000: Opportunity for those who have been away from the practice of their faith to experience God's loving forgiveness by receiving the Sacrament of Penance/Reconciliation. Reconciliation 2000 will take place between December 10th and December 23rd in all 283 Archdiocesan parishes. www.blessme.org provides a listing of special times and churches where penance services and the hearing of Confession will be held. Confessions will be heard in all churches of the Archdiocese on December 23rd between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. (Approximately 100,000 people took part in Reconciliation Weekend in 1999)
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Editor's Note: Rev. Msgr. Charles Devlin, Vicar for Renewal and Evangelization, will be available for interviews on Thursday, November 16, 2000 and Friday, November 17, 2000. If you would like to schedule an interview with Monsignor Devlin or would like a demonstration of the connection between the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and AOL, kindly contact Donna Crilley in the Office for Communications at 215-587-3747.
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
November 17, 2000
The Mental Retardation Services Division of Catholic Social Services will send a contingent of 75 people to Rome for Jubilee World Day for the Disabled. These pilgrims will depart for Rome on Tuesday, November 28, 2000 and return to Philadelphia on Wednesday, December 6, 2000. The group will attend the Jubilee World Day for the Disabled Mass celebrated by Pope John Paul II at Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome on Sunday, December 3, 2000. After the Mass, the Archdiocesan representatives will have the honor of attending an audience with the Holy Father at the Vatican.
The group includes those with special needs and those who care for them. They represent:
St. Edmond's Home for Children (Rosemont, Delaware County): Residential program for children with multiple disabilities, ages three to 21
, 26 pilgrims including five physically and mentally challenged children who reside at the Home and get around with the use of wheelchairs, 15 staff people and six family members. Trip funded by St. Edmond's Home for Children Women's Auxiliary (affiliated with Saint Edmond's since 1917)
Divine Providence Village (Springfield, Delaware County): Residential program for developmentally disabled adult women and children
- 18 pilgrims including 12 residents of the Village, five staff people and one family member
Cardinal Krol Center (Springfield, Delaware County): Residential program for developmentally disabled men
- 23 pilgrims including 12 men who reside at the Center, eight family members, two members of the Blessed Louis Guanella Council of the Knights of the Columbus and one administrator
Family Living Program (Philadelphia): This program supports adults with a diagnosis of mental retardation living in homes with families who are committed to assist them in activities of daily living
- Three travelers including two individuals currently in the program and the program administrator
Community Outreach Program (Delaware County): This program assists adults with special needs living at home or on their own to be able to have consistent and frequent access to community services
- Four travelers including two individuals who participate in the program and two staff to accompany them
All of these programs function under the auspices of the Mental Retardation Service Division of Catholic Social Services, Archdiocese of Philadelphia. The Assistant Director of the Mental Retardation Services Division will also be going on the trip. The staff traveling to the Jubilee work in various capacities within the organization, including direct care, nursing, rehabilitative and administrative positions.
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
November 17, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, joins with the 16 other Catholic bishops of Pennsylvania to teach about one of the central tenets of the Catholic faith, the Eucharist. In a new document, entitled "Questions and Answers on the Eucharist," the bishops explain, in a simple question and answer format, what the Church teaches and believes about the Eucharist and why. The bishops answer 20 questions, such as:
"What is the relationship between the Eucharist and the Last Supper?"
"What does it mean that Jesus died once and for all?"
"How should I prepare myself to receive the Eucharist?"
Already more than 445,000 copies of the document have been ordered by the ten Catholic dioceses in Pennsylvania. The Archdiocese of Philadelphia plans to widely distribute copies of the document. Cardinal Bevilacqua said, "Belief in the Real Presence of Jesus Christ is a universal and perennial teaching of the Catholic Church. The document is an informational and practical guide to this central and core belief. The Church has the responsibility to assert this teaching by explaining to the faithful what she has received from the Lord. "Questions and Answers on the Eucharist" will certainly be both a helpful catechetical tool and a means to increase greater devotion to Christ's Presence in the Eucharist."
In Questions and Answers on the Eucharist, the bishops explain why the Eucharist is so important to the Church, "In short, when the Church gathers in worship of God and offers the Eucharistic sacrifice, not only is Christ really and truly present under the appearance of bread and wine, but he also continues his saving work of our salvation."
The document's release comes in the last quarter of the Jubilee Year, which has been characterized by Pope John Paul II as "intensely Eucharistic." During the Jubilee year, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia held a Candlelight Eucharistic Procession which was attended by approximately 45,000 people, offered an Archdiocesan-wide Forty Hours Devotion (time of adoration of the Lord present in the Eucharist) and hosted a three day Archdiocesan Eucharistic Convocation, which focused on several aspects of the Eucharist.
Contact
Catherine L. Rossi
Director of Communications
215-587-3747
November 20, 2000
In hopes that Saint Nicholas soon would be there . . . the hope of more than 10,000 needy children in the Philadelphia area. You can be a part of this holiday program! The Office for Youth and Young Adults of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia displays the spirit of Christmas through a wonderful, nondenominational program called Operation Santa Claus. New, unused and unwrapped toys are collected, wrapped and distributed to children from struggling families throughout the Philadelphia area. Requests for toys come from parish social ministers, community based organizations, and churches of various denominations. During the drive, December 1 - December 15, toy collection boxes are located in all branches of Beneficial Bank.
People may also choose to give monetary contributions which will be used for Santa costumes, wrapping paper, trucks, vans, transporting volunteers, toys, printing and postage. All monetary donations are used solely for the program. Individuals, businesses, clubs or groups who wish to play a larger role in the success of Operation Santa Claus, should contact the Archdiocesan Office for Youth and Young Adults at 610-649-9476.
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Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
November 22, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, announced today that the Pontifical Council for the Family has published a document entitled "Family, Marriage and 'De Facto' Unions." The 79 page document addresses the growing number of such "Unions" and the repeated attempts to confer legal validity upon them. ' De facto' unions include cohabitation of men and women without the benefit of marriage as well as same sex unions. Cardinal Bevilacqua said, "Family, Marriage and ' De Facto' Unions" addresses an alarming social problem, the growing number of couples living together sexually outside the institution of marriage. Such moral permissiveness endangers the family, society and the common good because it secularizes what God has intended as a holy bond ' from the beginning.' Married couples give themselves freely and completely in order to share life and love with each other. With their children, they create the family, the basic unit and foundation of society."
"Family, Marriage and 'De Facto' Unions" is the result of a series of study meetings organized by the Pontifical Council for the Family in 1999 and early 2000. The Council acknowledged that this document addresses a problem that touches the very heart of human relations and noted that a word of guidance to those who have legislative responsibilities in this area is fitting. "It is they in their legislative task who can give juridical consistency to the institution of marriage or, on the contrary, based on an unreal understanding of personal problems, weaken the consistency of the common good that protects this natural institutional," according to the Council.
Cardinal Bevilacqua has spoken out on the issue of 'de facto' unions frequently. In September 1999, Cardinal Bevilacqua along with the other Catholic Bishops of Pennsylvania issued a document entitled Living Together: Questions and Answers Regarding Cohabitation and the Church's Moral Teaching. (Text available at www.archdiocese-phl.org/press/pr000178) In May 1993, he testified against Domestic Partners Legislation before Philadelphia City Council, calling the legislation anti-family.
Regarding the document issued by the Pontifical Council for the Family, Cardinal Bevilacqua said, "The Church and State have recognized the sanctity of the institution of marriage by protecting it with proper legislation. 'De facto' unions threaten the institution of marriage by secularizing and even trivializing it, making it a private relationship of convenience rather than a public and sacred bond of life and love. The document addresses the need to rediscover the existence of essential divine and human values which we can neither create nor destroy."
Editor's Note: "Family, Marriage and 'De Facto' Unions" is available on the Vatican web site at www.vatican.va/latest.
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
November 22, 2000
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia Office of Nutritional Development Services is sponsoring the Alternative Christmas Card Project for the 19th year in a row. All proceeds from the sale of the cards are used to purchase food to stock area soup kitchens and food cupboards. The annual project provides an excellent alternative to people who wish to avoid the commercialism of the Christmas season and prefer to focus on the true meaning of the holy day.
For the 2000 Christmas season, cards are available in a ten card variety pack for $15.00 or in a 20 card variety pack for $25.00. Custom orders are also possible.
There are five different designs available this year, including The Christmas Tree, The Tree Trimming Angel, The Christmas Lamb, Angel of Bounty and the Littlest Angel. All cards are 5"x7" and are printed on high quality paper stock. Each card explains that the greeting represents a donation made to help feed the hungry.
For more information or to order cards, please call Nutritional Development Services at:
215-895-3470
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
November 28, 2000
The Mental Retardation Services Division of Catholic Social Services will send a contingent of 75 people to Rome for Jubilee World Day for the Disabled. The group will attend the Jubilee World Day for the Disabled Mass celebrated by Pope John Paul II at Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome on Sunday, December 3, 2000. After the Mass, the Archdiocesan representatives will have the honor of attending an audience with the Holy Father at the Vatican.
Departure
Tuesday, November 28, 2000
5:55 p.m.
U.S. Air, Flight Number 2
Philadelphia International Airport
Arrival
Wednesday, December 6, 2000
3:25 p.m.
U.S. Air, Flight Number 3
Philadelphia International Airport
The group includes those with special needs and those who care for them. They represent:
St. Edmond's Home for Children (Rosemont, Delaware County): Residential program for children with multiple disabilities, ages three to 21
- 26 pilgrims including five physically and mentally challenged children who reside at the Home and get around with the use of wheelchairs, 15 staff people and six family members. Trip funded by St. Edmond's Home for Children Women's Auxiliary (affiliated with Saint Edmond's since 1917)
Divine Providence Village (Springfield, Delaware County): Residential program for developmentally disabled adult women and children
- 18 pilgrims including 12 residents of the Village, five staff people and one family member
Cardinal Krol Center (Springfield, Delaware County): Residential program for developmentally disabled men
- 23 pilgrims including 12 men who reside at the Center, eight family members, two members of the Blessed Louis Guanella Council of the Knights of the Columbus and one administrator
Family Living Program (Philadelphia): This program supports adults with a diagnosis of mental retardation living in homes with families who are committed to assist them in activities of daily living
- Three travelers including two individuals currently in the program and the program administrator
Community Outreach Program (Delaware County): This program assists adults with special needs living at home or on their own to be able to have consistent and frequent access to community services
- Four travelers including two individuals who participate in the program and two staff to accompany them
All of these programs function under the auspices of the Mental Retardation Service Division of Catholic Social Services, Archdiocese of Philadelphia. The Assistant Director of the Mental Retardation Services Division will also be going on the trip. The staff traveling to the Jubilee work in various capacities within the organization, including direct care, nursing, rehabilitative and administrative positions.
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Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
November 28, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, announces the Archdiocesan celebration commemorating the canonization of Saint Katharine Drexel of Philadelphia will be held on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
November 30, 2000
In December, 1999, the Archdiocesan Board of Education Strategic Planning Committee completed a study of the growth areas of the Archdiocese. Using Archdiocesan and Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission demographic data, the committee has identified high growth areas in the Bucks and Montgomery counties, particularly near St. Pius X Catholic High School and surrounding areas. The demographic data indicates that the northwestern region of Montgomery County projects strong population growth by the Year 2020. St. Pius X Catholic High School is at capacity, and is not equipped to handle the current and projected growth in this area. This area currently has a lack of coverage with regard to Catholic secondary education.
On March 14, 2000, the Archdiocesan Board of Education hosted an "open forum" for parents, teachers, and interested members of the community. The options presented were: 1) Expand the present facility; 2) build a new St. Pius X High School; and 3) do nothing.
A local Task Force was formed at Pius X Catholic High School to investigate the three options. In an effort to gather input from the families in the service area, Peter G. Federico associates was hired to construct a survey and analyze the data gathered. The survey was distributed to the parents of identified third to sixth grade students who attend either Catholic schools or participate in the parish CCD (religious education) program. A total of 1,700 families representing 20 parishes were given the survey, with 753 (44.3%) surveys returned. This reflected an adequate return rate for a survey of this type.
The results of this survey serve as support for a recommendation, not a final decision. These results will need to be viewed within a context that includes the actions of other schools in the system, both elementary and secondary and the implications those actions have on enrollment.
Attached is the Executive Summary of the survey results which has been forwarded to pastors, principals of feeder parishes, faculty and Directors of Religious Education, who will share with others in the community who participated in the survey.
# # #
Executive Summary
Saint Pius X High School
Interest Survey
Fall 2000
Background
The Archdiocesan School Board conducted a demographic study for the five county area as part of a strategic planning process. As part of the process, a town meeting was held at St. Pius X High School on March 14 to present the findings of the study as it relates to Montgomery County and to gather input from those in attendance. A local task force was created to investigate the three options presented to us at the town meeting. Those options were:
1. expand the present school to accommodate projected increasing enrollment
2. build a new school in Limerick or Upper Providence Township and close the Pottstown building
3. do nothing
The task force has met monthly since last March. In an effort to gather input from the families in the service area, Peter G. Federico Associates was hired to construct a survey and analyze the data gathered. Approximately 1,700 surveys were sent to parents of 3rd through 6th grade students in the surrounding Catholic elementary schools and parish CCD programs. The results of this survey serve as support for a recommendation, not a final decision. These results will need to be viewed within a context that includes the actions of other schools in the system, both elementary and secondary and the implications those actions have on enrollment. While the task force waited for the results of the survey, it investigated the feasibility of the three options.
Option one • Expand the present facility. A two-story 100,000-sq. ft. addition to the present building on the 12 acre Pottstown site was proposed. To accomplish this, a portion of the existing stadium and playing fields would be lost to construction space and required additional parking. While this option had the major advantage of a lower cost compared to building an entirely new school there were several major disadvantages:
1. an addition to the school would reduce the acreage available for athletic practice fields. This would require the school to locate a separate site for athletic fields. Having fields and school building on the same campus was preferred.
2. Remaining at the Pottstown location would not meet the needs of the projected population increase in the more central areas of the county.
3. The perceived lack of support for remaining at the present site.
Option two• Build a new St. Pius X High School east of the present site on sufficient acreage to include all athletic practice/playing fields and a state-of-the-art facility. The task force investigated this option by locating an area which would qualify for public school district busing. An area straddling both Limerick and Upper Providence townships was identified.
Option three • Do nothing. This option was rejected immediately as irresponsible and unfair to the families in a growing service area. New schools will be built for an expanding St. Clare parish in Linfield, St. Mary in Schwenksville, and St. Peter parish in Sanatoga. Also, Sacred Heart School in Royersford will be deconsolidated.
RESULTS
The results of the survey were returned to the task force in July, 2000. The survey responses mirrored the sentiment that was expressed at the town meeting in March.
The survey was designed to provide insight into the need and interest of the surveyed population to renovating the current St. Pius X High School or building a new school in the Limerick area; and the identification of elements which could be included in a renovation or new construction which may increase/decrease parent interest in sending their children to St. Pius X High School.
A summary of the survey findings follow:
753 surveys returned and analyzed (44.3% response rate)
81% of respondents lived within the Archdiocese for more than 11 years.
67% have been in their parish more than 9 years
1. Need/Interest
a) 932 school aged students (class of 2002 - 2005) represented
b) 94% respondents want strong Christian values
c) 64% prefer an Archdiocesan high school
d) 19% would send their children to public schools
e) the respondents expressed concern about the overall quality of education and the ability of the facilities to support this education
2. Preference: Renovate or build a new school
a) there was overwhelming support (86%) for the creation of a new St. Pius X High School
• 65% reported that Limerick increased their interest
• 11% reported that the Limerick location decreased their interest
3. Desirability of Proposed Change
Considered most attractive to respondents the top three choices were:
a) state of the art computer labs
b) alternative learning labs
c) science laboratories
Conclusion
In conclusion, the survey demonstrated a strong need for a massive expansion or rebuilding of St. Pius X High School; a strong preference for the construction of a new, modern St. Pius X High School in the Limerick Township area; a strong support for a new, technically advanced facility; and, a strong interest in quality curriculum and facilities to support that curriculum.
When the Task Force completes its work, it will make a formal recommendation to the Board of Education.
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Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
November 30, 2000
In December, 1999, the Archdiocesan Board of Education Strategic Planning Committee completed a study of the growth areas of the Archdiocese. Using Archdiocesan and Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission demographic data, the committee has identified high growth areas in the Bucks and Montgomery counties, particularly near Lansdale Catholic High School and surrounding areas. The demographic data indicates that the northern region of Bucks County projects strong population growth by the Year 2020. Lansdale Catholic High School is at capacity, and is not equipped to handle the current and projected growth in this area.
On March 20, 2000, the Archdiocesan Board of Education hosted an "open forum" for parents, teachers, and interested members of the community. The options presented were: 1) Expand the present facility; 2) build a new Lansdale Catholic High School in the Hilltown area; 3) Keep the current site as is and build an additional school in Montgomery or Bucks County; and 4) do nothing.
Last spring, a local Task Force was formed at Lansdale Catholic High School to investigate the options. In an effort to gather input from the families in the service area, Peter G. Federico associates was hired to construct a survey and analyze the data gathered. The survey was distributed to the parents of identified third to seventh grade students who attend either Catholic schools or participate in the parish CCD (religious education) program. A total of 5,900 families representing 20 parishes were given the survey, with 1,752 (29.7%) surveys returned. This reflected an adequate return rate for a survey of this type.
The results of this survey serve as support for a recommendation, not a final decision. These results will need to be viewed within a context that includes the actions of other schools in the system, both elementary and secondary and the implications those actions have on enrollment.
Attached is the Executive Summary of the survey results which has been forwarded to pastors, principals of feeder parishes, faculty and Directors of Religious Education, who will share with others in the community who participated in the survey.
# # #
Executive Summary
Lansdale Catholic High School
Interest Survey
Fall 2000
Introduction
This survey is part of a process in making a recommendation to the Board of Education for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia by Lansdale Catholic High School. A Task Force has been charged with examining options for Lansdale Catholic High School to handle the population growth and increased demand for Catholic secondary education in the Montgomery and Bucks Counties. The results of this survey serve as support for a recommendation, not a final decision. These results will need to be viewed within a context that includes the actions of other schools in the system, both elementary and secondary and the implications those actions have on enrollment.
Purpose
An interest survey was distributed to the parents of identified third to seventh grade students who attend either Catholic schools or participate in the parish CCD program.
A total of 5,900 families representing 20 parishes were given the survey, with 1,752 (29.7%) surveys returned. This reflected an adequate return rate for a survey of this type.
The questions to be answered by the survey were:
1) To what degree does the projected growth and respondents interest suggest the need for either an expanded facility or an additional facility for secondary education in Bucks or Montgomery County?
2) What is the market preference when given the following options?
- Expand the current facility.
- Build a new Lansdale Catholic High School in the Hilltown area.
- Keep the current site as is and build an additional school in Montgomery or Bucks County.
- Do nothing.
3) Which of the modifications or elements proposed for inclusion within the renovated or new Catholic high school increased or decreased parents' interest in sending their child(ren) to that school?
RESULTS
- 93% of respondents stated it was important or very important for their child(ren) to attend a high school, which promoted strong, Christian values. Over half (54%) said they would send their child(ren) to a Diocesan Catholic high school.
- Almost unanimously (99%) of the respondents believed that something needed to be done to more adequately meet the growing demand for Catholic secondary education in Montgomery and Bucks County.
- 85% approve of building a new school, breakdown as follows:
- 43% would like to see a new Lansdale Catholic in the Hilltown area
- 42% would like to keep Lansdale Catholic at its present site and build a new school in either Montgomery or Bucks County.
- 14% would like to see the present facility expanded.
- 755 respondents expressed a favorable view of placement of a new school within a five-mile radius of Hilltown.
- Of the three parishes (St. Stanislaus in Lansdale, Corpus Christi in Upper Gwynedd and Mary, Mother of the Redeemer in North Wales) in close proximity of Lansdale Catholic, the majority (44%) preferred Option #2 (Build a new LC within the Hilltown area).
- The top three proposed modifications or elements to be incorporated within the renovated or new Lansdale Catholic that would increase parents' interest in sending their child(ren) to LC were:
1) State of the art computer labs.
2) Upgraded Science Labs
3) Overall state of the art educational facility.
- 6% of the respondents said they were Lansdale Catholic graduates.
Conclusion
The projected growth in population for Bucks and Montgomery Counties along with this strong support and interest in Catholic education provides the basis from which to conclude that a massive expansion or rebuilding of Lansdale Catholic High School is in order.
The Task Force will take this information into consideration and make a formal recommendation to the Board of Education early next year.
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Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
November 28, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will dedicate the Hugh and Mary Moran Evangelization Resource Center during a pastoral visit to Saint Madeleine Sophie Parish, Philadelphia - North Vicariate. The year 2000 marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of Saint Madeleine Sophie Parish. Following the dedication, the Cardinal will celebrate Mass.
Saturday, December 2, 2000
4:45 p.m. Dedication
5:00 p.m. Mass
St. Madeleine Sophie Parish
Greene and Upsal Streets
West Mount Airy
The Hugh and Mary Moran Evangelization Resource Center is named in honor of two long time parishioners of Saint Sophie Madeleine who were engaged in active evangelization throughout their lives. In the late 1930's and through the 1940's, the Morans were active in street corner preaching throughout Philadelphia. They would preach in parks and would visit door to door in many neighborhoods. Their legacy continues through their daughters, Ellen Gereman and Mary Szczesniak, both of whom are active in the parish religious education program at Holy Cross Parish (East Mount Airy).
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Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
December 4, 2000
Don Guanella School and Delaware County Special Olympics will present a roller skating show featuring performances from "The Lion King," "Phantom of the Opera," "Cats" and "The Music Man." Don Guanella is an Archdiocese of Philadelphia school in Springfield, Delaware County for boys ranging in age from six to 21 with a wide variety of disabilities. "Broadway on Skates" will take place
Wednesday, December 6, 2000
7:00 p.m.
Don Guanella School
Route 320
Springfield, Delaware County
Over 20 volunteers from Don Guanella School, Special Olympics, Merion Mercy Academy and West Chester University have been practicing since August to prepare for this unique and heart warming show. The program will also be enhanced by the sounds and lights of disc jockey Brian Latasha, the disc jockey for the First Union Center.
There will be skating performances from over 20 Special Olympics athletes from Don Guanella School and Delaware County.
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Editor's Note: For more information, please contact Don Guanella School Activity Director Robert Neely at 610-543-1418.
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
December 6, 2000
The Archdiocesan Office for Youth and Young Adults will kick-off this year's "Operation Santa Claus" Toy Drive with a Mass on
Friday, December 8, 2000
10:00 a.m.
Operation Santa Claus Distribution Center
1818 Market Street
Philadelphia
Reverend Thomas Higgins, Director of the Office for Youth and Young Adults, will be the celebrant. Operation Santa Claus began in 1967 and has served as the connecting link between fortunate and less fortunate children. Through the volunteer efforts of area teens, over 10,000 children from struggling families receive toys. Operation Santa Claus receives requests for toys from parish social ministers, community based organizations and churches of various denominations.
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Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
December 7, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, announces that he will convoke the Tenth Synod for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. A synod is a gathering of priests, religious and laity called by the archbishop to advise him on important matters regarding the Archdiocese. A synod, which includes broad-based consultation, cultivates the unity of the faithful and the mission of the Church.
This announcement comes as the Archdiocese of Philadelphia examines ways to build upon the spiritual and pastoral renewal begun in 1991 in preparation for the Great Jubilee of the Year 2000 and the Third Millennium of Christianity.
Cardinal Bevilacqua said, "Renewal is not just another program or initiative. It is on-going, as we strive for our entire lives to 'renew the face of the earth' through the power of the Holy Spirit. With this in mind, after consultation with my advisors and the Council of Priests, I have judged it opportune to convoke the Tenth Synod for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. This will be a unique event for all of us in the Archdiocese. The last diocesan synod took place sixty-six years ago in 1934, under my predecessor Cardinal Dougherty."
"A synod is an ancient and proven instrument for fostering renewal in the life of the local Church. The final object of an archdiocesan synod is to foster communion and mission. The synod achieves this end by contributing in shaping the pastoral activities of the archdiocese through an evaluation of existing pastoral programs and a subsequent proposal of new pastoral plans. As such, the synod is a natural progression for our Archdiocese, building upon all the pastoral planning we have accomplished thus far."
The Synod will be held in the Spring of 2002, with a Year of Preparation to begin on January 8, 2001. The Great Jubilee Year, begun on December 24, 1999, was dedicated to celebrating the 2000th anniversary of the birth of Jesus Christ. The Great Jubilee Year will formally end on January 7th, 2001 with the Closing of the Jubilee Doors at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul.
The Cardinal has directed that an Office for the Archdiocesan Synod be established and has appointed Reverend Monsignor John E. Breslin, pastor of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish in Doylestown, as Director of the Office for the Archdiocesan Synod and Sister Janet Baker of the Sisters of Mercy as the Assistant Director.
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Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
December 11, 2000
I considered Bishop McHugh a close friend. Over the years, we worked closely together on matters that affected both the diocese of Camden and the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Bishop McHugh was a leading bishop in articulating the teachings of the church on life issues, especially abortion, more recently partial birth abortion, and euthanasia. He carried international influence as the representative from the Vatican at the conference in Cairo. (1994) Bishop McHugh was a prolific writer and a very intelligent and holy man, but very self-effacing and humble. It was unfortunate that his illness limited him from fully using his talents and abilities in Rockville Center. I greatly admired Bishop McHugh. We have certainly lost a great Bishop.
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Editor's Note: Bishop McHugh served the diocese of Camden, New Jersey from 1989 until December 1998. He became bishop of Rockville Center, New York in January 2000.
Contact
Catherine L. Rossi
Director
215-587-3747
December 11, 2000
More than 500 area teens will put on their roller skates and join Santa Claus for the annual "Skate with Santa" party sponsored by the Office for Youth and Young Adults of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
December 14, 2000
Teenage volunteers from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia'sOperation Santa Claus Program will be sorting, wrapping and tagging toys to be delivered on Christmas eve to more than 11,000 needy children throughout the Philadelphia area.
From now until December 21st you can catch the "elves" busily at work on:
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
December 18, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, announced today that Pope John Paul II decreed that a healing attributed to the intercession of Blessed Frances de Sales Aviat of a young girl who suffered from a spinal ailment is miraculous. The Holy Father's decree is the last major step needed for the canonization of Blessed Aviat. Cardinal Bevilacqua said, "I am deeply moved to announce to you that this morning in Rome, Pope John Paul II issued a decree officially recognizing a second miracle attributed to Blessed Frances deSales Aviat. We are here at St. Bernadette's Parish because this second miracle happened here, not far from where we are standing right now. God has once again come to us this time, through the intercession of Mother Aviat, the foundress of the Oblate Sisters of Saint Francis deSales, who teach here at Saint Bernadette's School."
Cardinal Bevilacqua made the announcement in Drexel Hill, PA, at St. Bernadette Parish, where members of Mother Aviat's order teach. St. Bernadette's is the home parish of Bernadette McKenzie, the recipient of Mother Aviat's miraculous intercession. Mother Aviat was born in France in 1844 and devoted her life to the educational, missionary and social services apostolates. Sister Anne Elizabeth, Congregational Delegate to the United States, said, "We are in awe in the truest sense of the word. We are in a state of veneration and wonder at the goodness of our God. God has truly visited and blessed his people. Our congregation is blessed. The life that our foundress Mother Aviat traced out for us is holy. The Church has once again affirmed our Salesian way of life."
In March, 1990, at the age of 12, Bernadette McKenzie experienced severe pain and underwent surgery for a tethered spinal cord. Two subsequent surgeries occurred in January and November of 1991. Her surgeon referred her to another physician, solely for pain therapy, since he felt that her case was insolvable. A novena (9 days of prayer) was begun on March 22, 1992 to Mother Aviat by family, friends and parishioners. On the 4th day of the novena, the child experienced a sudden and complete reversal of pain and debilitation. On March 31, 1992, the child's physician examined her again and stated that he found no medical explanation for her recovery.
"The 31/2 years that I fought the disease tethered cord syndrome was the most difficult time of my life," Bernadette McKenzie said. "However, since my cure in 1992, the years that I was ill have become nothing but a fading memory. On March 25, 1992, my life changed dramatically. On this day the effects of the disease left my body completely. The unbearable pain and my inability to walk correctly suddenly disappeared. I am so grateful to the Oblate Sisters of Saint Francis deSales and to Mother Aviat."
Since the cure occurred in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, the diocesan inquiry regarding the case was opened by Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua on September 8, 1994. It was submitted to Rome in November 1994. On February 17, 2000 a board of medical experts decided that there was no scientific, natural or medical reasons for the cure. On June 23, 2000, a board of theologians decided that the healing was due to the intercession of Mother Aviat. On December 5, 2000, a board of cardinals and bishops, members from the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, recommend the healing to the Holy Father as miraculous. Today the Pope issued the decree that the healing is miraculous. A canonization date has not yet been announced.
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Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
December 19, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will host the 45TH annual Cardinal's Christmas Party for approximately 400 children of different races, ages and creeds. All of the children who attend the party are served through various programs of Catholic Social Services. The party will begin with a colorful parade, followed by presents and entertainment.
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
December 19, 2000
The Villanova men's varsity basketball team will conduct a clinic for developmentally delayed young people at Don Guanella School on December 21, 2000. Don Guanella is an Archdiocese of Philadelphia school in Springfield, Delaware County for boys ranging in age from six to 21 with a wide variety of disabilities.
Thursday, December 21, 2000
3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Don Guanella School
Route 320
Springfield, Delaware County
All of the Villanova men's team members and coaching staff will be present. After introductions and a clinic, the team will hand out posters and sign autographs.
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Editor's Note: For more information, please contact Don Guanella School Activity Director Robert Neely at 610-543-1418.
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
December 19, 2000
Sunday, December 24, 2000
--5:00 p.m. Christmas Vigil Mass: Music provided by the Cathedral Contemporary Ensemble
--7:30 p.m. Christmas Vigil Mass: Music provided by the Archdiocesan Boy Choir
--11:00 p.m. Office of Readings: A liturgy of Psalms and Christmas carols, with singing by the Cathedral Collegiate Choir
Monday, December 25, 2000
--12:00 a.m. Christmas Midnight Mass celebrated by Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia: Music provided by the Cathedral Collegiate Choir under the direction of Michael Sheerin
Other Masses on Christmas Day at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
--8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. (Congregational Singing)
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
December 21, 2000
More than 170 teams of teenage volunteers from Archdiocesan youth programs will dress as Santa and his elves to deliver toys to over 600 needy families on
Christmas Eve
Sunday, December 24, 2000
2:00 p.m.
University of Pennsylvania Newman Center
3720 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia
The Operation Santa Claus Project has estimated that 4,000 teenagers from Archdiocesan sponsored programs are involved in collecting, wrapping and delivering toys to children in the five-county Philadelphia area. Approximately 35,000 toys will be delivered to 10,000 needy children.
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Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
December 21, 2000
After distributing toys to more than 10,000 needy children that benefit from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia's Operation Santa Claus Toy Drive, hundreds of teenage volunteers, their family members, and staff workers will gather for a joyous liturgy, followed by a holiday social on
Contact
Marie Kelly
Associate Director
215-587-3747
December 21, 2000
Contact
Donna Crilley
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747
December 28, 2000
Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will symbolically seal the specially designated Holy Door of the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul (18th Street side) and close the Jubilee Year. The Jubilee Year is a celebration of the 2000th anniversary of the birth of Jesus Christ. Cardinal Bevilacqua will bless and encourage the representatives of 19 different groups to accept the challenge of Pope John Paul II to work for the "new evangelization" in the Third Millennium. (See editor's note)
Contact
John Cox
Communications Assistant
215-587-3747