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DECEMBER 18, 2008
Students make commitment to safe driving
SCOTTSDALE — Phoenix is ranked as the sixth deadliest city in the nation for teenaged drivers, but students at Notre Dame Preparatory are committed to helping change that.
Youth involved with the school’s Students Against Destructive Decisions joined members of the school’s football team and all winter sports teams and their parents for a commemorative signing of the Parent-Teen Driving Contract Dec. 5.
The contract was a giant version that Allstate Insurance Company offers its clients. It solidifies their discussions about and commitment to safe teen driving and details consequences for breach of contract.
Notre Dame’s SADD group won second place and $5,000 last year in a nationwide contest sponsored by Allstate for its efforts in promoting safe driving.
Gift giving benefits poor throughout world
For Catholics still in search of that perfect Christmas gift, Food for the Poor offers the chance to purchase one gift that benefits some of the world’s poorest people.
Its gift catalog is filled with opportunities to honor friends and family members by sponsoring a gift for the needy in their honor. Money supports efforts in the Caribbean and Latin America to feed malnourished children, provide adequate housing, provide farm animals as a means of income for destitute families and build ponds so villages have a reliable source of food.
Gifts in the catalog come with an array of price tags — from $10 for a fruit tree to $150 for a donkey to $250 for a water pump that benefits the greater community.
All gifts are tax-deductible. To select a gift, access the catalog online at www.foodforthepoor.org/giftcatalog or request a hard copy by calling 1-800-427-9104.
Community notification statement: Bro. Richard Suttle, CMF
The Claretian Missionaries of the U.S. Western Province have notified the Diocese of Phoenix that their review board has found a report of sexual abuse of a minor to be credible against Bro. Richard Suttle, a religious brother of the Claretian Order. Credibility does not imply either guilt or innocence but rather that the allegations made in the report are possible.
In that report, Bro. Richard Suttle, CMF, is accused of engaging in sexual abuse of a minor during the 1982-83 school year while at Sacred Heart School in Prescott where Bro. Suttle was a teacher and a coach. After becoming aware of the report during the fall of 2008, the Diocese of Phoenix promptly conducted a thorough investigation into the charges and forwarded its findings to the Claretian Missionaries.
To date, the report of the 1982-83 abuse at Sacred Heart is the only report of sexual abuse of a minor against Bro. Suttle that is known to the Diocese of Phoenix. The Claretians are not aware of any other allegations of sexual abuse of a minor against Bro. Suttle.
The Claretian Missionaries have officially informed the Diocese of Phoenix that Bro. Suttle no longer resides in Arizona and will not be assigned to the diocese at any time in the future. The religious order has removed him from any ministry involving minors and has placed him on a plan that restricts and monitors his movements.
Bro. Suttle was also employed at Bourgade Catholic High School in Phoenix from 1988 to 1998, where he was a teacher and coach. He served as principal of Sacred Heart School between 2006 and 2008.
The diocese urges anyone who may know of any sexual abuse or other improprieties by Bro. Suttle or who may have any other such information about him to contact the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office at (602) 506-3411, the Yavapai County Attorney’s Office at (928) 771-3485 or the Claretian Missionaries at (626) 289-2009.
Anyone who has experienced sexual misconduct or abuse by anyone with the Church is encouraged to make a report to local law enforcement and to contact the Office of Child and Youth Protection at (602) 354-2396.
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DECEMBER 4, 2008
Black Catholic Ministry builds community, awards scholarships
Every month, Black Catholics from across the diocese gather for Mass at St. Pius X Church, and Nov. 16 was no different. That day, the church was packed for the 13th annual Unity Mass hosted by the diocesan Office of Black Catholic Ministry.
“For people of color, this ministry has given us an opportunity to worship in a comfortable way,” said Kit Marshall, director of the Office of Black Catholic Ministry.
The group also provides an opportunity to promote youth evangelization, especially with its scholarship program that helps send students to Catholic high schools.
In addition to helping families pay for Catholic education, the scholarships often serve as a catalyst for the young students to get involved in their own parishes and schools.
— Sylvia L. White
Busy MOMS help serve parish and beyond
AVONDALE — The Ministry of Mothers Sharing group at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish keeps itself busy serving others and leading them to Christ.
The ministry started simply enough. A mother sought a community to grow with in her Catholic faith. Four years later, with more than 100 members, a 12-woman leadership board and non-stop activity, these women not only support each other in their vocations of marriage and motherhood, but they bring life to the parish and the wider community.
In November they hosted their fourth annual Christmas Bazaar, an event, which began as a way to showcase the businesses of their fellow mothers. Now it is open to all parishioners and the local community. It has become the group’s main fundraiser.
— Jennifer Mayo
Tamale festival raises funds for parish projects
Dozens of tamale makers from local faith-based groups, including St. Clement of Rome parishioners in Sun City, will be dishing up piles of their best tamales during the annual Food City Tamale Festival.
The festival is both a showcase for the community, who will be able to sample and buy countless homemade tamales, and a fundraiser for the church groups.
More than 40,000 people are expected to attend the two-day event, which also features a southwestern Latino arts and crafts fair. Music and family entertainment are also on the schedule.
The tamale festival is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Dec. 13-14, at Cesar Chavez Plaza, 201 W. Washington St. in Phoenix.
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NOVEMBER 20, 2008
Sentinels see lessons come to life in election night coverage
CHANDLER — The books were closed and classrooms fell silent as Seton Catholic High School students gathered in the campus library to watch the election returns Nov. 4. The lessons of U.S. government and history, however, were far from over.
Michael Vetti, who teaches American government and history as well as a course in philosophy at the school, had organized Seton’s first ever election night watch party for students and faculty. The results are in: students said hours of studying paid off as they watched the dry facts of the classroom come to life while the election unfolded.
— Joyce Coronel
St. John Bosco School honors service of veterans
Students, parents and staff honored the sacrifice of men and women in the armed forces Nov. 11 in front of St. John Bosco School.
Angela Navarro, a sixth-grade teacher, said the staff organizes the event every year for students to reflect more deeply on what it means to serve.
Captain Patrick Ramirez, who has served in the Arizona Air National Guard for 16 years and is the father of a fourth-grade student at the school, came decked out in his camouflage and boots. He stood alongside students as they raised the flag.
Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and Daisy Scouts wore their uniforms and lined up at the flagpole near the school’s entrance.
— Joyce Coronel
Eagle Scout Project blossoms into a rosary garden
MESA — Seventeen-year-old Michael Polowski, an Eagle candidate from Boy Scout Troop #565 in Mesa, saw the completion of more than 10 months of hard work Oct. 25.
That’s when he attended a dedication for the rosary garden he agreed to build for St. Timothy’s Good Shepherd Center.
Polowski took on the project to meet one of the requirements for attaining Eagle status — the highest rank among Boy Scouts. He learned that Mindy Longwell, the center’s director of catechesis, wanted to create a rosary garden in what was once the center’s rock-covered playground earlier this year.
Polowski coordinated with Longwell to design the concept for the garden, worked with local businesses to procure the necessary goods and services, and enlisted help from volunteers to lay and paint tiles, plant flowers and set up benches.
— Christine Bailey
Students turn into Eskimos for ‘Ice Wolf’
The Drama Club at St. Mary’s High School presents “The Ice Wolf,” a tale of a pale-haired child exiled by her own people because she was “the different one” and gets blamed for the famine and storms that plague their village.
The tale parallels social problems of today and explore the consequences of prejudice, the passion for revenge that it inspires and the cost of healing.
The production uses movement and the beat of Eskimo drums, spare and poetic language, and striking visual imagery to create a haunting theatrical experience.
All tickets are $5. Show times are 11 a.m. Nov. 20, 6 p.m. Nov. 21 and 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Nov. 22 in the Wiegand Theater on campus, 2525 N. 3rd Street. For more information, call (602) 251-2500.
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NOVEMBER 6, 2008
Gospel-driven worship celebrates 15 years in diocese
Catholics across the diocese share one faith, but come from many cultures.
The Office of Black Catholic Ministry offers a chance for Catholics to share their heritage during its monthly Unity Mass, which will celebrate its 15th anniversary this month.
“Unity is the symbol of ‘oneness’ or parts coming together,” said Isaiah “Kit” Marshall, director of the diocesan office.
He hopes Catholics of all races gather at St. Pius X Church near downtown Phoenix to celebrate a liturgy which will feature Gospel music — the sound that carried blacks through slavery and history — led by the Freedom Singers. Holy Cross Father Timothy C. Conlon will preside.
Mass begins at 1 p.m., Nov. 16, at St. Pius X Church, 809 S. 7th Ave. Food and refreshments will follow. For more information, call Marshall at (602) 354-2025.
Bishop Olmsted to welcome diocese’s newcomers
Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted and Fr. Robert Clements invite Catholics to welcome their newest brothers and sisters in Christ to the diocese during its Mass to welcome immigrants Nov. 5.
The theme for this year’s Mass is “Opening our hearts to the newcomers in our midst,” an excerpt from “You Welcomed Me,” a 2005 pastoral letter from the Arizona Catholic bishops.
The liturgy is designed to renew hope, love and unity within God’s family. Bishop Olmsted will preside with Fr. Clements, rector of Ss. Simon and Jude Cathedral, delivering the homily.
The Mass begins at 7 p.m. at the cathedral, 6351 N. 27th Ave. For more information, call Ignacio Rodriguez, associate director of ethnic ministries for the diocese, at (602) 354-2042.
Foundation holds boot camp for veterans, caregivers
In honor of National Caregiver Month, the Foundation for Senior Living is hosting a Caregiver Boot Camp.
The event — designed especially for senior veterans and their caregivers — will offer the pair the chance to receive a flu shot and health screening. They can also pick up information from local experts regarding veterans’ benefits, Medicare choices, legal matters and related issues.
Tours of the foundation’s caregiver house will also be available to give veterans and their caregivers simple ideas on home design modifications and adaptive equipment that can make caregiving safer and easier.
The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Nov. 8, at the Foundation for Senior Living caregiver house, 1201 E. Thomas Road. For more information, visit www.fsl.org or call (602) 285-1800 ext. 330.
Registration open for benefit golf tournament
The early registration deadline for the 17th annual Joe Hasulak Memorial golf tournament and Hawaiian luau hosted by the Knights of Columbus is running out.
Foursomes must register by Nov. 15 for the scramble to get the discount. Teams will enjoy a round of golf Dec. 13 at the Foothills Golf Club, entertainment, dinner and chances for many prizes including a car and cash. Proceeds benefit local charities.
Registration is $100 per player through Nov. 15 and $125 per player thereafter.
Hole and tournament sponsorship is available as well. To register or for more information, call Joe McDermott (480) 227-7700 or mail checks payable to “Knights of Columbus,” to K of C Golf Tournament, c/o Joe McDermott, 2630 E. Windmere Dr., Phoenix, AZ 85048.
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OCTOBER 16, 2008
Parish hosts Caribbean-themed fundraiser
FLAGSTAFF — San Francisco de Asís Parish recently held its 70th Gran Jamaica event, a popular fundraising event for the church.
“The success was overwhelming,” said Lorenza Velasco, committee chair. “Everyone seemed to be having a great time, whether it was dancing the night away or working one of the tables at the Tardeada. The committee did a wonderful job and the community responded wonderfully.”
The theme for the Sept. 6-7 event was “Building Community” and included a dance Saturday evening with music provided by Los Rumberos, a popular local band. Sunday afternoon featured a family festival, boasting great food, games and entertainment.
Eva Barazza, committee member, created a commemorative book of letters, photos and newspaper clippings of past Gran Jamaica celebrations collected from parishioners who attended the event over the years.
— Catherine E. Hanley
NAU Newman Center celebrates families
FLAGSTAFF — Northern Arizona University’s Newman Center hosted its annual Family Weekend Oct. 5 with a Mass and other activities.
Michael Vollmer, campus ministry director, estimated that 55 Catholic families participated, the largest he had ever seen.
One attendee was Christina Biddle, a freshman.
“I love it here, and being a member of the orchestra is definitely a big plus. It’s wonderful to provide music with the group at Sunday Mass and on other special occasions,” Biddle said. “There is so much talent and opportunity here that I am glad to be a part of it.”
Eric Herzick, a freshman hailing from Chandler, said he looks forward to attending more Masses and participating in the Newman Center’s other activities and faith-enriching programs.
— Catherine E. Hanley
Cathedral to host Mass for veterans
In an effort to acknowledge and thank veterans for their service, Ss. Simon and Jude Cathedral invites veterans and their families to a 9 a.m. Mass on Nov. 9.
The Mass is the cathedral’s normally scheduled televised Mass, but veterans will have the opportunity to sit in a special section near the altar with their families. During the Mass, veterans will receive a special blessing. A reception will follow.
Registration by Oct. 27 is required, including name, the name of their group and the number of people who will be attending the Mass and reception. For registration, e-mail contactus@simonjude.org or fax (602) 249-3768.
Cardinals’ coach to speak at Seton golf tournament
CHANDLER — Ken Whisenhunt, head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, will participate in and give the keynote address at Seton Catholic Preparatory High School’s annual golf tournament.
The Oct. 18 tournament begins with a shotgun start at 7:30 a.m. at the Ocotillo Golf Club. After the tournament — which includes a hole-in-one car giveaway and prizes for the longest drive, closest to pin and more — participants will enjoy lunch with Whisenhunt.
Raffle prizes include a weekend getaway to San Diego, a $500 Bashas’ grocery gift card, a $500 gas gift card and many others. Funds raised will benefit Seton’s student athletes.
For registration information, visit the Web at www.setoncatholic.org or call Patrick Molloy at (602) 885-7229.
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OCTOBER 2, 2008
Catholics see 'big picture' in Bible
The diocesan Office of Adult Evangelization invites Catholics to take a one-day journey through the Bible’s timeline.
Jeff Cavins, creator of “The Great Adventure” Bible study system, will help Catholics discover the “big picture” of the Bible Oct. 11. The seminar will help churchgoers weave together the Bible’s collection of people, places and events.
The day-long seminar — which will also be given in Spanish by Martin Zavala — begins at 8:30 a.m. at St. Paul Parish, 330 W. Coral Gables Dr., Phoenix.
Registration is $44.95 in advance and $49.95 at the door. Prices include seminar materials and lunch.
Cavins, a devout Catholic who spent 12 years as a Protestant pastor, will also share his conversion story from 7 to 9 p.m., Oct. 10.
For registration information, call Stefanie Gamez at (602) 354-2323, e-mail sgamez@diocesephoenix.org or visit www.biblestudyexpo.org.
Sisters to celebrate 75 years of service in Arizona
SCOTTSDALE — The Sisters of Charity of Seton Hill will mark 75 years of ministry to Arizona’s Catholic students and parishioners with a special Mass with Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted Oct. 19.
Sr. Mary Ann Winters, former diocesan chancellor, along with the order’s provincial superior, will be part of the celebration.
The sisters spent years establishing Catholic schools in the dioceses of Tucson and Phoenix, including St. Catherine of Siena,
St. Theresa, St. Mary’s in Chandler and Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Scottsdale. They also served as faculty at Seton High School in Chandler.
The anniversary Mass begins at 2 p.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Scottsdale, 7655 E. Main St. For registration information, call Sr. Esther Marie at (480) 874-3762 or visit www.scsh.org.
St. Paul Parish hosts annual Cultural Diversity Mass
The Cultural Diversity Team and the Office of Ethnic Ministries of the Diocese of Phoenix will host the 11th annual Cultural Diversity Mass Oct. 4 at St. Paul Parish, 330 W. Coral Gables Dr., Phoenix.
The Mass reminds Catholics of the cultural diversity present in the diocese, said Ignacio Rodríguez, the associate director of the Office of Ethnic Ministries.
Musical preludes from some of the ethnic communities will begin at 4 p.m. and Mass will be celebrated at 5 p.m. The ethnic communities will share their food at a free multicultural buffet following the Mass.
'Soul Searchin'' fundraiser to benefit Catholic school
TEMPE — St. Timothy Catholic School is holding its fifth annual gala fundraiser, an evening of “Soul Searchin’” on Saturday, Oct. 18 at the Fiesta Resort and Conference Center in Tempe.
The evening of fun and entertainment includes both a silent and live auction, dinner and a musical production.
Local radio personality Gwen Foster of KMLE Country 108 will be the mistress of ceremonies and well-known singers Michael Bube and Joyce Bailey will perform.
Some of the auction items include a weekend getaway in Flagstaff, a trip to Vermont with airfare included, jewelry, and a family fun package at Makutu’s Island.
Tickets for the event are $60 but can be purchased for $50 online, Sttimothycatholicschool.maestroweb.com. For more information, call Fred or Cindy DeLuca at (480) 497-8256.
— Joyce Coronel
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SEPTEMBER 18, 2008
Legislative seminar to feature Bishop Olmsted, current issues
The Phoenix Diocesan Council of Catholic Women and the Knights of Columbus are sponsoring a legislative seminar Oct. 4.
The free event begins with an 8 a.m. Mass celebrated by Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted and continues at the Diocesan Pastoral Center, located at 400 E. Monroe St., with breakfast and presentations.
Experts who will address current issues of the day in light of Catholic teaching include Dr. Jennifer Robak-Morse, who will focus on traditional marriage as part of God’s design, and Nikolas Nikas, president of the Bioethics Defense Fund.
The second edition of Bishop Olmsted’s booklet “Catholics in the Public Square” will be released at the seminar. Advanced registration is required and seating is limited.
For reservation information or to request copies of the booklet, call Genny Jones at (480) 201-7198 or Carol Bock at (480) 830-8864.
— Joyce Coronel
Notre Dame to dish up ‘Taste of Excellence’ gala
SCOTTSDALE — Besides expecting excellence from its students, administrators at Notre Dame Preparatory are also anticipating it from a dozen Valley chefs and culinary experts at the school’s annual “A Taste of Excellence” gala.
The 12-member culinary ensemble will feature food connoisseurs from Michael’s Catering, Eddie’s House, Tapino Kitchen and Wine Bar, Village Tavern and more. All of them will offer samples of their specialties for more than 800 guests to enjoy.
The evening will also feature dancing and a raffle for prizes that include cash, a one-year tuition waiver and a 2009 C300 Mercedes-Benz. Raffle tickets are $100 each or 12 for $11,000.
The gala will be held Oct. 4 at Notre Dame Preparatory, 9701 E. Bell Road. To order raffle tickets, call (480) 634-8227. For more information on the gala, call (480) 483-2091.
Mercy Gilbert seeks community help for healing garden
GILBERT — Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, a member of Catholic Healthcare West, invites the community to help build its healing garden that is scheduled to open early next year.
The community can sponsor the garden’s fountain, amphitheatre, art panels, groves, bench, labyrinth, Tree of Life — a 30-foot steel tree — or one of its leaves, that will create a serene place of healing for the mind, body and spirit.
Naming opportunities are available for $10,000-$75,000. Those wishing to pledge general support for the garden can purchase a leaf for $250. Sponsorship is also available for the bench at $2,500, a tree for $500 or a tile on the recognition wall for $150. All contributions are tax-deductible.
For more information or to make a donation, call (480) 728-3931 or visit www.supportchweastvalley.org.
'40 Days for Life' campaign begins
Sept. 24 marks the beginning of the third “40 Days for Life” prayer campaign in the Valley. The community outreach project aims to hold prayer vigils at three Planned Parenthood clinics.
Organizers say they plan to take their message to “every corner of our city through media efforts, church presentations, petition drives and public visibility.” They hope women entering the clinics will decide not to go through with an abortion.
Planned Parenthood clinics located at 1250 E. Apache in Tempe, 4417 N. 7th Ave. in Phoenix and 8822 N. 43rd Ave. in Glendale will be the focus of the prayer campaign.
For information, call Mary Piorkowski at (602) 999-3866 for the Tempe vigil, Beth Straley at (602) 814-0741 for the Phoenix vigil, and Curt Gustafson at (623) 329-7244 for the Glendale vigil.
— Joyce Coronel
SEPTEMBER 4, 2008
Correction
The new Our Lady of Guadalupe Academy in Queen Creek featured in the last issue was incorrectly identified as a Montessori-based school (“New Catholic school opens; two others embrace changes,” The Catholic Sun, Aug. 21).
The Catholic Sun regrets the error.
Paz de Cristo to celebrate 20 years of service to poor
MESA — Twenty years ago, St. Timothy Parish formed an interfaith outreach ministry focused on serving and empowering the homeless and low-income in the East Valley.
The agency now relies on volunteers from all backgrounds to staff its job center, assemble personal hygiene packages and food boxes, and prepare daily meals.
Paz de Cristo, which goes through 34 loaves of bread and 220 pounds of chicken daily, will re-affirm its commitment to the community next week.
The ceremony and 20th anniversary celebration will feature refreshments and tours. It will be held at 10 a.m., Sept. 13, at Paz de Cristo Community Center, 424 W. Broadway Road.
For more information and to RSVP, call (480) 464-2370.
World Apostolate of Fatima screening film in Prescott
The World Apostolate of Fatima for the Phoenix Diocese Division will be celebrating its 25th Anniversary Sept. 13 with a screening of a new film on Our Lady of Fatima.
Fr. Fred LeClaire, CMF, will celebrate Mass at 9 a.m. that day at Sacred Heart Parish. The screening will follow. Lunch will be served from 1 to 3 p.m. at St. Catherine Labouré Parish in Chino Valley.
The job of the apostolate is “to disseminate the message of Fatima, live the message of Fatima and protect the purity of the message,” said Lucy Enriquez, president of the Diocese of Phoenix division.
The film will also be available on DVD in coming months.
For information, call Deborah Engard at (602) 955-5753.
— Rebecca Bostic
San Francisco de Asís Catholic School accredited
FLAGSTAFF — San Francisco de Asís principal Michael Evans announced the school’s accrediation renewal from the Western Catholic Education Association Aug. 15.
The accreditation will be good through the 2014 school year. Evans said the accreditation process involved self-evaluative programs, a three-day visit by the accreditation team, interviews with the school community and a review of the written responses to the WCEA criteria.
— Catherine E. Hanley
Traveling Museum to highlight African-American history
The African American Multicultural Museum will be hosting a traveling exhibition featuring the history of African-Americans at St. Patrick Parish in Scottsdale from 2 to 6 p.m., Sept. 16.
The exhibition, “America I AM,” is a multi-sensory experience with artifacts, text, video, music and an interactive opportunity.
“It brings history out to educate people,” said Isaiah “Kit” Marshall, director the diocesan Office of Black Catholic Ministry. “It’s really the history of African-Americans and America, bringing relics and materials from every period of our country’s history. The unique thing is that it’s interactive.”
In a mobile recording booth, visitors can leave their own “imprints” as recorded video messages that will become part of the exhibition as it travels across the country.
— Andrew Junker
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AUGUST 21, 2008
Interfaith worker center hosts Labor Day open house
Interfaith Worker Justice of Arizona will host an open house Sept. 1 for the grand opening of its Worker Rights Center, located at 331 E. Willetta St. in Phoenix.
The organization describes the center as a “safe place where Arizona’s working women and men can come to learn about their workplace rights and find solutions to workplace problems.”
Some of the resources that the center will provide include written material regarding Arizona employment law, Internet access, access to legal counsel and volunteers trained in worker rights issues.
Interfaith Worker Justice of Arizona describes itself as “a coalition of individuals and faith communities ... We educate, organize, and mobilize the broader faith community around issues and campaigns that will improve wages, benefits and working conditions for working women and men, especially the working poor.”
Labor Day activities will include a tour of the new facility, food, beverages and presentations throughout the day. For information, call (602) 254-5452 or (480) 522-4707.
Lightning strikes Flagstaff chapel
FLAGSTAFF — It was a “miracle” that nobody was injured, said Fr. Patrick Mowrer, after lightning hit the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Chapel Aug. 8.
Teresa Mayorga, manager of St. Francis Gifts and Books Store, said she had just stepped outside when she heard the sound of the sudden loud clap of thunder.
“That was terrifying enough, but then I saw the bolt of lightning headed for the Church — it was the scariest moment I have ever experienced,” she said.
The lightning knocked the concrete-and-steel cross on the top of the church to the ground. According to building inspectors, the damage to the chapel is limited to its external structure only. All services proceeded as scheduled.
Fr. Mowrer encouraged parishioners to “pray for more rain but ask God to go easy on the lightning.”
— Catherine E. Hanley
Faithful Families parish mission coming to Glendale
The Faithful Families Parish Mission, presented by Tempe-based Sound Mission Ministries, will offer a dynamic blend of music, humor and Catholic teaching next month at St. Helen Parish in Glendale.
The mission features Catholic recording artist Chris Muglia, a singer/songwriter and speaker, who founded Sound Mission Ministries in 2002 after feeling that God was calling him to expand his music ministry.
“Families today are pulled in a million different directions,” said Muglia, who has been married for 13 years and has four children. “This mission will give families an opportunity to slow down and refocus their energies on their most important relationships.”
The free event will be held in the evenings from 7 to 9 p.m. on Sept. 14, 15 and 16 at St. Helen’s. A free-will offering will be collected each night.
Joining Muglia will be three popular Catholic speakers, including Catholic Sun columnist Mary Moore, who speaks about the joys and challenges of motherhood and family life; national speaker Bob Perron, best known for his comedic and compelling “Stooge for Christ” ministry; and singer/songwriter Simona Olson.
Each night will begin with music, a keynote speaker and an opportunity for attendees to process the material. Each night will end with adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and prayer.
For information, visit www.soundmission.org.
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AUGUST 7, 2008
Homeless project connects hundreds with critical services
FLAGSTAFF — More than 50 community organizations and agencies joined together for Project Homeless Connect last month to offer free services to those in need.
The July 19 affair marked the second large-scale outreach in five months offering breakfast, medical check-ups and social services to the area’s homeless and low-income residents.
Volunteers from the St. Vincent de Paul San Francisco de Asís Conference served more than 275 breakfasts. Bob Busch, who coordinated the meal, noticed more families than the project’s first outreach in January.
“Families may be going through some tough times,” Busch said. “Some spoke of job loss while others spoke of decreases in hours worked or in pay.”
After breakfast, guests had medical check-ups at a nearby school and access to social services courtesy of Catholic Charities Community Services’ transition from homelessness program.
Nick Wood, outreach coordinator, called the day “overwhelmingly successful” in helping more than 70 people.
“It was good work in a short period of time,” Wood said.
For more information about the project call (928) 679-7431.
— Catherine E. Hanley
Lost Boy of Sudan to share survival story
CHANDLER — Life in the Sudan is far removed from Seton’s high school campus, but the two worlds will collide beginning this month.
That’s when Benjamin Ajak, one of the Lost Boys of Sudan, will recount his thousand-mile escape at the age of 5 from his war-torn country. Ajak detailed his 1987 escape to Ethiopia, Kenya and America in a book, “They Poured Fire on Us from the Sky,” which he co-wrote with two of his cousins.
Students will read and reference his book throughout the year, but along with the greater Catholic community, can get a personal account during Ajak’s address. The Lost Boy will also explore other worldly issues related to the genocide in Darfur.
Ajak was among tens of thousands of young boys who fled the massacres of their country’s civil war from 1987 to 1989. Little progress has been made to end the holocaust.
The public is invited to spend an evening learning about the plight of the Lost Boys of Sudan Aug. 13 in the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Chapel at Seton Catholic High School, 1150 N. Dobson Road. The talk begins at 7 p.m.
For more information, call the school’s development office at (480) 963-1900 ext. 2006.
Overcoming tragedy with Christ focus of workshop
SCOTTSDALE — Tragedy is a part of life, which makes dealing with it inevitable. One local Catholic wants to ensure the grief-stricken that when they emerge on the other side, they do so with God.
Chris Benguhe, author of “Overcoming Life’s 7 Common Tragedies: Opportunities for Discovering God” and columnist for The Catholic Sun, will present a workshop Aug. 23 based on his new book.
He will use practical everyday philosophy to apply the “positive potential” to the most common catastrophic life situations. Benguhe will challenge guests to use personal reflection, embrace his “Seven Steps of Serenity” and learn from anecdotes how to find joy after enduring tragedy.
The workshop will be held 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Franciscan Renewal Center, 5802 E. Lincoln Drive.
Registration is available at www.thecasa.org. Cost is $65.
For more information, visit the Web site or call (480) 948-7460 ext. 157.
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JULY 17, 2008
Jesuit celebrates 50 years as a priest
Jesuit Father Edward E. Callanan observed 50 years as a priest by celebrating a June 22 Mass at St. Francis Xavier Parish. He was pastor of the central Phoenix community from 1990 to 2002.
“I give thanks to almighty God for calling me to the priesthood,” Fr. Callanan said during his homily. “I thank the Jesuit community for accepting me.”
During his 50 years of priestly ministry, Fr. Callanan spent many years teaching at Jesuit high schools in Arizona and California, before dedicating more than a decade to serving parishioners at St. Francis Xavier.
“He brought a lot of gifts to the parish,” said long-time parishioner Dorothy Westfall. “He would see a need and although he had other things that were pressing he would take care of the need. He was always very compassionate.”
And even after half a century of service, Fr. Callanan let the packed church know he doesn’t plan on slowing down.
“May I have another — hopefully — 10 or 15 years to serve the people of God,” he said.
— Sylvia White
New pro-life documentary debuts
Last month, nearly two dozen pro-life leaders and community volunteers from across the Valley gathered at the Phoenix offices of Arizona Right to Life for the unveiling of “Abortion: Inside the Choice,” a new documentary.
The educational program, along with its 87-page companion manual, was the focus of a four-hour training seminar designed to help pro-life leaders better understand the abortion issue from both sides of the debate.
Using real-life interactions, honest dialogue and expert testimonies, the documentary aims to diffuse many of the slogans and arguments commonly brought up by abortion-rights supporters.
“It’s important to tap into the thoughts and minds of the opposite side,” said Melanie Pritchard, executive director of education outreach. “Unless we know where [abortion-rights advocates] are coming from, we won’t be able to make an impact.”
For more information on “Abortion: Inside the Choice” and the accompanying manual, “Intelligently, Graciously, and Effectively Defending Innocent Human Life,” contact Arizona Right to Life at (602) 285-0063 or visit the Web at www.azrtl.org.
— Magdalin Leonardo
Catholic singles serve Mexico’s orphans
Singles Serving Orphans, a national ministry for Catholic singles, will be making two mission trips to a Mexican orphanage later this year and invites diocesan singles to join.
It’s “bringing singles together to serve children, children who are also single, who have no parents,” said Catherine Marrs, a parishioner at St. Timothy in Mesa. She attended a Singles Serving Orphans trip earlier this year.
The experience begins with prayer at the Redemptorist Renewal Center, a Catholic retreat center in Tucson. Singles from across the country caravan an hour south of the border to address ongoing needs at a Mexican orphanage.
An information session about the ministry and its next trip will be held 6:30 p.m. Aug. 5 at Firebird’s Grill in Chandler, 3435 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler. For more information, call Catherine at (602) 717-0545 or visit the Web site: www.singlesservingorphans.org.
— Ambria Hammel
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JULY 3, 2008
Upcoming Mass to welcome immigrants
Fr. David Sanfilippo, vicar general for the Phoenix Diocese, will celebrate a July 2 Mass welcoming immigrants to the Valley at St. Catherine of Siena Parish.
“The Church continues walking with all our brothers and sisters. Let us welcome our immigrant brothers and sisters and renew our hope, love and unity of God’s family,” read a flyer promoting the Mass.
Fr. Sanfilippo described the Mass as simply carrying out what Pope Benedict XVI has encouraged American dioceses to do.
“The Holy Father has encouraged the Church in the U.S. to continue to be welcoming to the immigrants,” he said. “This is the way we’ve chosen to do so.
He hopes that the 7 p.m. liturgy will show unity between Valley Catholics and their recently arrived brothers and sisters in Christ.
“We’re all on the same pilgrimage to heaven,” he said.
Catholic pianist concert to benefit Arizona Right to Life
World-renowned Catholic composer and pianist Eric Genuis will appear in a concert to benefit Arizona Right to Life at 7:30 p.m., July 25, at City of Grace Church in Mesa.
The evening is being billed as a “celebration of music, passion, life and hope.” The award-winning Genuis will be performing pieces from his four albums that showcase his profound love for God and commitment to sharing the hope and love of Christ.
Tickets are $20 per person or $40 per family. Clergy and student tickets are available for $10. Contact Arizona Right to Life at (602) 285-0063 or visit www.azrtl.org to reserve your seats or inquire about group rates.
Local women’s council confer awards, elect leaders
SCOTTSDALE — The Phoenix Diocesan Council of Catholic Women named 12 Women of the Year and elected new officers at its annual meeting June 21 at St. Maria Goretti Parish.
“To Mary with Love” was the banner under which more than 200 Catholics gathered to celebrate the past year and look forward to the next.
“To understand Christianity, you have to understand the Virgin Mary. We ourselves cannot be faithful followers of the Church if we ignore the Virgin Mary,” said Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted, keynote speaker at the event.
The bishop discussed the revival of Marian devotion due to the late Pope John Paul II’s example.
The 12 women who were recognized as Women of the Year exemplified lives that reflected Christian values in their families, parishes, communities and the diocese, said Shirley Maday, who chaired the awards committee.
Rose Buchanan, Leona Couch, Ina Filas, Mary Ann Flynn, Beverly Jarvis, Marjorie Lawlor, Joann Major, Mary Ann McAward, Margaret Mitchell, Barbara Pawlak, Linda Santoro and Loretta Winn were all honored.
— Sylvia L. White
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JUNE 19, 2008
Clarification
In the story “Crozier Gala brings together supporters” (The Catholic Sun, May 1), the amount of support attributed to Bruce and Diane Halle, supporters of the Catholic Community Foundation and guests of honor at the 20th Annual Crozier Gala, was incorrect. The Catholic Sun regrets the error.
Mercy Gilbert celebrates second anniversary
GILBERT — Two years ago, Catholic Healthcare West’s Mercy Gilbert Medical Center opened its doors to the public. Since June 5, 2006, the hospital has experienced exponential growth, and has nearly doubled its employee base to approximately 930 individuals, in addition to its 17,141 hospital admissions; 3,591 births, including 31 sets of twins; 68,135 visits to the emergency room; 27,420 outpatient visits and 7,827 surgeries.
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center’s services have also maintained steady growth to keep pace with the Town of Gilbert’s ever-growing population.
“Mercy Gilbert Medical Center promotes a healing environment that helps patients to feel safe and comfortable, as well as reminds our staff why they chose health care as their line of work,” said Laurie Eberst, president and CEO of Mercy Gilbert Medical Center.
Peoria resident receives nursing award
Peoria resident, Randy Balas, R.N., C.N.R.N., recently received the Margaret Sherwood Nurse of the Year Award for the excellent care he provides to his patients. Balas is a nurse in the Neuroscience Intensive Care Unit at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center and has been a nurse for approximately 10 years.
“I feel honored and humbled to have been selected by my peers as Nurse of the Year,” Balas said. “This honor is truly a reflection of the compassion, unity and excellence of the entire Neuroscience ICU team at St. Joseph’s.”
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JUNE 5, 2008
Registration open for national singles conference
More than 500 Catholic singles are expected to attend the National Catholic Singles Conference in San Diego June 27-29.
The event will feature Mass, adoration, praise and worship music, and keynote talks on issues facing single Catholics today.
“It’s going to be high caliber and it will celebrate our identity,” said Michele Fleming, who is coordinating the conference.
She said it can be difficult to live faithfully as a single Catholic and to find others who share the same values.
For information, visit www.nationalcatholicsingles.com.
Parishioners celebrate traditional Pentecost
LAKE HAVASU CITY — Churchgoers celebrated the birthday for the Catholic faith on Pentecost with a special vigil Mass at Our Lady of the Lake Parish May 10.
The trumpeting sound of a ram’s horn gathered the community for a Mass in which conch shells were the musical instruments and Catholics celebrated the descending of the Holy Spirit on the first disciples 2,000 years ago.
Like at Pentecost, those gathered spoke many languages. Parishioners wore their native garb. Others wore red, a color symbolic of the Holy Spirit. The annual multicultural Mass reminds parishioners of the one Spirit in which they are baptized.
Fr. Chauncey Winkler, pastor, said, “This was a wonderful worship celebration and a reminder to each of us to go forth in the name of the Lord, ‘to renew the face of the earth.’”
— Barbara Starbeck
Catholic students earn top honors
Various community, state and national organizations recently recognized local Catholic school students for their excellence in the classroom and community.
The U.S. Department of Education selected Xavier College Preparatory senior Yasmine Hafiz as a Presidential Scholar, one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students. She was the fifth from Xavier to receive such an honor.
The Arizona Interscholastic Association and Cox Communications presented Bryan Berens, quarterback at Brophy College Preparatory, with the Scholar Athlete of the Year Award in the 4A/5A division. Berens also took up positions on the sidelines, leading cheers at Brophy’s soccer and basketball games.
Michael Malpiedi, a senior at Seton Catholic High School, earned AIA’s 4A/5A Scholar Activity Participant of the Year Award for dedication to his studies and activities. Malpiedi performed in several school plays, was active in clubs, played football and was a campus ambassador and orchestra member.
Maggie McGoldrick, an eighth-grader at Our Lady of Perpetual Help School in Scottsdale, and Chandler Hagg, a sixth-grader at St. Gregory School, are among 40 finalists for the “Be Kool. Stay in School” scholarship program sponsored by Kool 94.5 FM radio and Fulton Homes.
Scouts earn religious emblem award
MESA — Nearly 300 people gathered at St. Timothy Parish to honor dozens of Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and Campfire Girls for earning their religious emblem awards May 18.
Three youths earned a Knights of Columbus honor certificate for earning all of the religious emblems available to them.
Five girls earned the “I Live My Faith Emblem” after learning to deeply appreciate the role their faith plays in their daily life.
Boy Scout troops from 11 parishes throughout the diocese earned the Ad Altare Dei Award for their study and understanding of the sacraments. Boy Scouts from five parishes earned the Pope Pius XII Award for their discussions on issues facing the Church and society.
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MAY 15, 2008
Queen of Heaven Cemetery to dedicate burial garden
MESA — Queen of Heaven Cemetery and Mortuary invites Catholics to the dedication of its new St. Anne’s burial garden this Memorial Day.
The garden is a final resting area for churchgoers who belong to the Gilbert parish of the same name.
Fr. Greg Schlarb, pastor, will offer a traditional Memorial Day Mass and, after an honor guard salute to fallen veterans, will unveil a statue and dedicate the land.
Refreshments and tours of the mortuary follow. Mass begins at 8 a.m. May 26. Queen of Heaven Cemetery and Mortuary is located at 1562 E. Baseline Road. For more information, call (480) 892-3729.
Blue Mass honors public safety personnel
The Knights of Columbus of the Ahwatukee Foothills will host its fifth annual Blue Mass May 17 honoring sworn and civilian members of the public safety community.
Arizona’s police officers, paramedics and firefighters are expected to fill the pews of Corpus Christi Parish for a special liturgy and appreciation rite. The Police Department Honor Guard will lead the posting of the colors.
The Knights of Columbus have a long history of supporting those who bravely serve and defend public safety and their families. Last year, the fraternity donated more than $4,000 to the 100 Club of Arizona, which supports and aids families of public safety officers seriously injured or slain in the line of duty.
The Blue Mass begins at 11 a.m. May 17 at Corpus Christi Parish, 3550 E. Knox Road. A reception will follow.
Conference promotes Catholic homeschool education
The Diocese of Phoenix is partnering with two local homeschooling groups to host the Our Lady of Guadalupe Phoenix Catholic Homeschool Conference June 27-28.
It’s designed for parents and children already involved in homeschooling, those who want to learn more and educators interested in reviewing Catholic curriculum materials. The two-day conference features a keynote address and other speakers including Catholic apologist Patrick Madrid.
The first day will focus on teenage homeschoolers and their parents. Teens can enjoy live music while talking to various vendors. They can also learn from a vocations panel and enjoy a “Pure Fashion” fashion show.
Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted will celebrate Mass June 28. Major Catholic curriculum providers will also be available with materials for review and purchase, many at discounted prices.
Registration, which includes brunch, is $25 for individuals, $30 for couples, and $6.50 for teens. Lunch is also available for purchase June 28. For registration information, visit www.olghsc.com or e-mail Veronica Dupuis at olghsc@cox.net.
Diocesan council invites women to annual meeting
The Phoenix Diocesan Council of Catholic Women invites the diocese’s ladies to its annual meeting for Mass, lunch, election of officers and a celebration of womanhood.
Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted will celebrate Mass and be the keynote speaker focusing on the topic “To Mary with Love.” The meeting also includes Women of the Year awards, a raffle and door prizes.
The meeting will be held 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. June 21 at St. Maria Goretti Parish, 6261 N. Granite Reef Road in Scottsdale.
Reservations are $30 payable to PDCCW. Send payment by June 4 to Janet LaPlante, 641 W. Port Au Prince, Phoenix, AZ 85023.
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MAY 1, 2008
OLPH seeks community support of hospitalized student
GLENDALE — The community of Our Lady of Perpetual Help School is in need of prayers and financial support for Sarah Ramirez. Ramirez, a seventh-grader, is in a coma at a Valley children’s rehabilitation hospital following an accident Feb. 21.
Ramirez stopped to help a man render aid to a dog hit on a West Valley street when they were both struck by a car. The school has been selling pink ribbons, Ramirez’s favorite color, to raise money for medical bills that have exceeded $200,000. To date, the school has raised $2,800 to help Ramirez, the youngest of 10 children.
To help, call the school at (623) 931-7288, or mail a donation to the school, made payable to Yolanda Ramirez, 7521 N. 57th Ave., Glendale, AZ, 85301.
— Gina Keating
Seton hosts open house for chapel
CHANDLER — Seton Catholic High School invites the community to an open house for the new St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Chapel on Sunday, May 4, noon-4 p.m. Tours of the new chapel will be conducted and refreshments will be provided. The school and new campus are located at 1150 N. Dobson Road, just north of Ray Road.
The chapel was the first step in a capital campaign that — when finished — will essentially build an entire new campus next to the present-day facilities.
“It’s great that the chapel was the first building on the campus because it sets the tone,” said Paula Osterday, Seton’s director of development. “The foundation of our school is our faith.”
The 6,000-square-foot chapel cost the school $2.6 million to build. It will host daily Mass most of the week and will also be available for grade or activity-specific Masses.
The new chapel pays homage to its namesake by incorporating aspects of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s life into its art and architecture. For example, the chapel’s crucifix will be modeled off of a painting in a New York church that was one of St. Elizabeth’s favorites.
Drink tea to improve health of homeless
Hot tea has its benefits on an ailing body, especially when it’s sipped on behalf of Circle the City.
The community-based grass-roots organization founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph, and Sr. Adele O’Sullivan, a medical doctor, will host a tea party with proceeds boosting health care outreach to homeless individuals in the Valley.
Funds will help establish a 25-bed recuperative care center for the homeless in downtown Phoenix run by Circle the City.
The garden tea party will be held 9 a.m. May 7 at Mount Claret Retreat Center, 4633 N. 54th St. For more information, call Sandra Smith (480) 905-8046.
St. Mary’s High School celebrates 90th anniversary
The diocese’s oldest high school is turning 90 and is throwing a benefit ball for the occasion to keep the campus affordable for future students seeking a Catholic education.
St. Mary’s High School is hosting “The Emerald Ball” with funds ensuring the future of student activities, educational development and student scholarships.
The event will be held May 10 at the Wyndham Phoenix Hotel, 50 E. Adams St. Cocktails and a silent auction begin at 6 p.m. with dinner, a live auction and dancing beginning at 7 p.m.
Tickets are $100-$500. Sponsorship opportunities are available.
For reservations or more information, call (602) 251-2546 or visit www.smknights.org.
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APRIL 17, 2008
Clarification
In the second-to-last paragraph of the story, “Disabilities office serves those with special needs” (The Catholic Sun, April 3), a statistic was misleading.
It should have read: “While her office consistently relies on CDA funding to effectively minister to Catholics with disabilities in this diocese — there are 14 million nationally — she ultimately hopes to see inclusion in such a way that her office is no longer needed.”
Catholics, Muslims talk over Noah’s Pudding
TEMPE — People and politicians throughout the world continually try to increase religious dialogue. Many Muslim families across the globe have a rather sweet idea they have been practicing for years — Noah’s Pudding.
Asure — also known as Noah’s Pudding — is a dessert made from grains, nuts and fruits that is shared between Muslims and Christians of the Middle East to commemorate the landing of Noah’s ark on Mount Ararat in northeastern Turkey. Local Turkish Muslims who belong to the Foundation for Inter-Cultural Dialogue reached out to Catholics in Tempe by hosting a Noah’s Pudding event at the All Saints Newman Center April 6.
— Rebecca Bostic
Knights of Columbus pray for pope
LAKE HAVASU CITY — Days before Pope Benedict XVI’s first trip to the United States, the Knights of Columbus council at Our Lady of the Lake Parish spent time in prayer for him.
They offered a rosary to Our Lady of Charity April 10 for the pope’s personal intentions. The event was one that each Knights of Columbus council worldwide will hold through September.
After each prayer service, the Knights sign their name in a book that will become part of a spiritual bouquet to be presented to Pope Benedict XVI later this year.
Prostitution diversion highlights Catholic Charities compassion
Tammie Miller, former resident and caseworker at DIGNITY, was a prostitute and had been to jail.
Miller met a caseworker who told her about the organization, an acronym for Developing Individual Growth and New Independence Through Yourself. “She was trying to tell me something I didn’t want to hear,” Miller said.
Something made her change her way of thinking; she realized her future held nothing but death.
“Three years ago, I was worried about if I was going to live or die — that day,” she said.
— Sylvia L. White
Take a swing for Knights charities
The Knights of Columbus is hosting its 10th annual charity golf tournament at the SunRidge Canyon Golf Resort in Fountain Hills, ranked as a top 10 public golf course in the Valley.
Golfers will enjoy breathtaking views of Four Peaks and the desert while raising money for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, three local Catholic-based homes for pregnant women who are alone and André House, a Catholic shelter for the homeless.
The Knights hope to raise $50,000 for these charities.
Participants can also enjoy a putting contest, silent auction and an awards luncheon. Sponsorships and player applications are available by contacting Jeff Langhorst at (602) 616-2450 or www.azknights12313.org.
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APRIL 3, 2008
Courtesy St. Jerome Parish in Phoenix
St. Jerome’s youth recreate the Stations of the Cross
Jesus Christ, portrayed by Ben Wollschlager, is whipped by a Roman soldier, Mike Sanders. St. Jerome Parish youth reenacted the Stations of the Cross on Good Friday, March 21. For additional photos, visit our Flickr page.
Young adults to soak up theology on tap
CHANDLER — Young adults often have questions about their faith, but some feel they don’t have the forum to ask. The South Deanery created such an opportunity by hosting the Theology on Tap series every Monday in April.
Each week, a different priest from the diocese will gather with young adults at BJ’s Brewery in the Chandler Mall for dinner while chatting about the Church.
Fr. Jack Spalding, pastor at St. Timothy Parish in Mesa, will talk about Mary April 7. Fr. Gary Regula, pastor of St. Benedict Parish in Phoenix, will discuss social justice April 14 and Fr. John Coleman, pastor of St. Andrew the Apostle Parish in Chandler, will give an overview of world religions April 21.
Fr. Fred Lucci, OP, director of the All Saints Catholic Newman Center at Arizona State University in Tempe, will finish the Theology on Tap series April 28 with a Catholic question-and-answer session.
Cost is $12 for an all-you-can-eat salad and pizza bar with soda or water. Alcoholic beverages are extra. BJ’s Brewery is located at 3155 W. Chandler Blvd.
For more information, call Barbara Lishko at (480) 899-1990 ext. 142.
Fundraising dinner to benefit Cursillo Movement
Catholics wanting to support a long-standing lay movement of the Church are invited to attend a “party for God” later this month.
The annual party, as Msgr. John McMahon calls it, is also known as the Cena de Colores, a fundraising dinner benefiting the Cursillo Movement of the Phoenix Diocese.
Money from the dinner, silent auction and cash raffle supports the movement, which offers three-day retreats that guide men and women toward re-invigorating their faith and making a difference for Christ. Nearly 30,000 Catholics have attended the retreat since 1962.
The dinner, now in its sixth year, has raised more than $125,000 supporting retreat-goers in need. Guests will enjoy a deluxe Southwestern dinner under the stars while listening to a strolling mariachi band.
Organizers hope 500 will attend the Cena de Colores. It will be held April 26, 5:30-9:30 p.m. at Mount Claret Retreat Center, 4633 N. 54th St.
For more information or to donate auction items, call Mount Claret at (602) 840-5066, Deane (480) 892-6873 or the event’s co-chairs Daneen and Manny at (602) 920-5065 or (602) 522-2930.
Harlem Gospel Choir to perform locally
AVONDALE — One of the world’s premiere Gospel choirs which has performed for the late Pope John Paul II, among other well-known figures, will share its message of love, peace and harmony with local Catholics.
The Harlem Gospel Choir will perform at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish April 18. The appearance is through the parish’s Music and the Arts program and the West Valley Arts Council.
Organizers expect the choir’s inspirational songs to reach the depths of the soul and raise the audience’s spirits to angelic heights.
The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. at the parish, 13720 W. Thomas Road. Tickets are $25 or $10 for students. VIP tickets, which also includes parking and a meet-and-greet reception with the choir, are $75.
For tickets or information, call the parish at (623) 935-2151 or visit www.musicandthearts.org.
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MARCH 20, 2008
Community breakfast focuses on transforming lives
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul invites those who want to be leaders in their community to its “Called to Care” breakfast.
The event focuses on how the agency works to transform lives through its array of services and how the community can support St. Vincent de Paul’s continued efforts to help the homeless and working poor.
The breakfast is free, but the event also serves as a fundraiser benefiting St. Vincent de Paul’s five Valley dining rooms, special works ministries, and Ozanam Manor, a transitional shelter for older adults.
These services provide nourishing meals, warm showers, clean clothing, safe shelter, and more for thousands of homeless and working poor individuals in the Valley.
The community breakfast will be held April 10 at the Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa in the McArthur Ballroom, 2400 E. Missouri Ave.
Registration begins at 7 a.m. The breakfast and program is 7:30-8:45 a.m. For information, contact Leslie Zschokke at (602) 261-6837 or lzschokke@svdp-phx-az.org.
Local parish receives national grant to amp up liturgy
BAGDAD — St. Francis of Assisi Parish can count itself among 44 Catholic churches nationwide that now have the means to amp up their music and liturgy.
Oregon Catholic Press recently awarded $2,200 to the small northern parish through its parish grants program. The publisher dispersed an additional $112,000 to other Catholic churches.
OCP, whose worship programs are used in two-thirds of U.S. parishes, has awarded at least one parish in every diocese a grant since the program’s inception in 2001.
“Service to the Church is one of the guiding principles of our company,” said John Limb, publisher.
Applications for 2009 grants are being accepted online April 30-June 30. The projects must relate to liturgy or music. All U.S. Catholic parishes are eligible to apply, even if they don’t currently use an OCP worship program.
For information or to apply, visit www.ocp.org/grants.
Benefit dinner unites parishes for El Salvador trip
Teens and young adults from two parishes are traveling to El Salvador this summer, but they want the greater Catholic community to experience the country’s realities with them next month in the Valley.
The young Catholics from St. Paul and Holy Spirit parishes are hosting “Travel to El Salvador,” a benefit dinner with activities focusing on the country’s economic sustainability and political stability.
A Salvadorian consul will talk about the area’s government and culture while guests enjoy authentic Salvadorian food.
All proceeds will support the group’s June mission of solidarity to El Salvador where the youth and young adults will learn about the root causes of poverty and global influences on foreign policy.
The summer experience will be through the Foundation for Self-Sufficiency in Central America, which works in solidarity with low-income communities that are committed to justice, peace and long-lasting self-sufficiency.
The dinner will be held at 6 p.m. April 11 at St. Paul Parish, 330 W. Coral Gables Dr. Tickets are $15, $10 of which is tax deductible.
To order tickets or for more information, contact Debbie DiCarlo at (602) 863-9953 or ddicarlo@stpaulsphoenix.org.
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MARCH 6, 2008
Students working 40 days to aid orphans
AVONDALE — Students at St. Thomas Aquinas School are spending their free time this Lent in service to help orphaned kids with basic needs.
The students are doing extra chores at home, for neighbors and in their communities. Any money they make will benefit the Holy Family Center, an orphanage in Peru, which is run by religious sisters.
The sisters will use it to provide all 620 children — infants through age 18 — with food and clothing.
To help them better understand the fruits of their labor, St. Thomas Aquinas administration will read a letter of thanks from the sisters each week during morning prayer.
Knights donate thousands for new church
ANTHEM — The Knights of Columbus at St. Rose Philippine Duchesne presented a check for $50,000 to the parish March 2 to help with its ongoing campaign to build its first permanent church.
The 3-year-old parish currently holds Mass in its chapel and at a nearby school. The Knights raised the money over the last two years by running its own concession stand inside University of Phoenix Stadium.
St. Rose still needs roughly $600,000 in available cash before it can proceed with the building. Current building costs estimate the project at $2.9 million.
Seton recognized for yearbook excellence
CHANDLER — Taylor Publishing recognized Seton Catholic High School yearbook staff with an Award of Excellence honoring its accomplishments in yearbook design and coverage. Seton’s yearbook is featured in the “2008 Yearbook Yearbook” as among the best, one of only four Arizona schools to be recognized by the publisher.
Yearbooks published by Taylor for the 2007 school year were evaluated in one or more of the following areas: cover design, theme development, layout design and photography. Taylor Publishing recognizes only the top five percent of yearbook staffs for outstanding yearbook achievement.
“The Award of Excellence is given each year to a small percentage of yearbook staff nationwide that demonstrates excellence in yearbook,” marketing manager Mike Taylor said. “We applaud these staffs for their outstanding work and support their efforts in scholastic journalism.”
Xavier earns state, Catholic honors for academics
Xavier College Preparatory’s advanced placement students and others who excel in academics recently earned the school two awards.
Xavier took home the state’s Siemens Award for Advanced Placement because of student success rates in AP courses. The award included a $1,000 grant from the Siemens Foundation to strengthen the school’s science and math programs.
The entire senior class takes at least one of the school’s 22 AP courses. Last year, Xavier graduated two national AP scholars and 100 other AP scholars.
For the third year in a row, the Catholic High School Honor Roll recognized Xavier as one of the country’s top 25 best Catholic secondary schools in academics.
The list is an independent project of the Acton Institute, an international research and educational organization, and a national advisory board of Catholic college presidents and noted Catholic scholars.
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FEBRUARY 21, 2008
Corrections
In a photo that ran in the Feb. 7 edition of The Catholic Sun, Don Castro, the director of this year’s Mesa Community College Film Festival, was misidentified as the Polish filmmaker Krzysztoff Zanussi.
Also, The Sun provided an incorrect address for St. John of the Desert Melkite Church, which is actually located at 3718 E. Greenway Road in Phoenix.
The Catholic Sun regrets the errors.
Schools cheer for state championships
Spirit lines from Seton Catholic High School, Notre Dame Preparatory and Xavier College Preparatory spend all season cheering on their school’s teams and now they can cheer for themselves.
Seton Catholic High School in Chandler won the All-Girl state championship last month in its first time competing at the 4A Division-II level. It is also a first with the team for competition coach Nik Moseby and coach Katherine Brandon.
The award is the sixth consecutive title for the spirit line, which beat out Scottsdale’s Notre Dame by three points. Seton also won the All-Girl Stunt 4A Division-II state championship.
Notre Dame’s Saints beat out Seton by five points in Pom and by three points in Show Cheer, taking home two state titles. The saints are the All-Girl state runner-up.
The Xavier spirit line competed in 5A Division-I. The team placed first in All-Girl Stunt, second in Pom and third in Show Cheer, making them the state runner-up.
All of the teams are now preparing for the USA High School National Championships March 7-9.
Agency calls community to support unemployment hike
It’s been said that most job seekers find employment through personal connections. The community can be that connection for those trying to secure meaningful employment and a home by joining local non-profit organization St. Joseph the Worker for its 10th annual Hike for the Homeless.
One family has already donated more than $3,600 to the event which helps St. Joseph the Worker find meaningful employment for the homeless, low-income and disadvantaged individuals.
The hike will also celebrate the agency’s 20th anniversary. Hikers will set foot at 7:30 a.m. March 1 for a long trek and at 9 a.m. for a short trek through the Estrella Mountain Regional Park, 14805 W. Vineyard Ave. in Goodyear.
Cost is $20 or $10 for students. Registration is available online at www.sjwjobs.org/hike or by calling (602) 417-9854.
The community is invited to a benefit concert following the hike at Xavier College Preparatory’s auditorium, 4710 N. 5th St. The concert begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are a suggested donation of $15. For information, visit www.sjwjobs.org/concert or call Molly at (602) 417-9854.
Students adapt classic tale in newest play
GLENDALE — The eighth-graders at Our Lady of Perpetual Help School are putting the final touches on their theatrical production and invite the community to come see it. They will perform “Honk Jr.,” a musical adaptation of “The Ugly Duckling” story. Performances begin at 7 p.m. Feb. 22-23 with a 2 p.m. matinee Feb. 23. The show is a fundraiser to finance the students’ annual retreat and trip to L.A. Religious Education Congress.
Tickets are $7 for adults and $4 for children 13 and under and are available at the school or from any student.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help is located at 7521 N. 57th Ave. For more information, call (623) 931-7288.
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FEBRUARY 7, 2008
Corrections
In last month’s “Welcome to the Diocese” special section (The Catholic Sun, Jan. 17), we failed to include descriptive information regarding Catholic Renewal Ministries. The liaison is Fr. Andrew Arango, eud. For information, contact Marge Chavez at (602) 942-5555 or Joann Duffy at (480) 945-2990.
Also in that edition was a map of the diocese, including a listing of parishes and the language in which they offered liturgies. St. Benedict Parish in Phoenix was inadvertently omitted.
The Catholic Sun regrets the errors.
Scout retreat ‘Calling All Saints’
The diocese’s Catholic Committee on Scouting will host a retreat for Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and adult leaders.
It’s designed to help them learn to respond to their call to witness, holiness, duty and stewardship by centering on the theme “Calling All Saints.”
The retreat features separate programs for scouts in first through fifth grade and sixth through 12th grade. Both sessions include presentations, activities and crafts that show how a handful of saints responded to their call.
The retreat will be held 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Feb. 9, at the Boy Scouts of America Heard Scout Pueblo, 20th Street and Dobbins Road in Phoenix. Registration begins at 7 a.m. Cost is $10 per person which includes materials, lunch, snacks and a retreat patch. For more information or to register, visit www.phxdccs.org.
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center opens pediatric, adolescent unit
GILBERT — Mercy Gilbert Medical Center — part of Catholic Healthcare West — opened its new Lund Family Pediatric and Adolescent Unit Feb. 4. It also unveiled a post-surgical unit the same day.
The 22-bed family pediatric and adolescent unit was designed for patients ages 17 and younger. It includes a “KidsZone” playroom filled with movies, toys, books and arts and crafts activities geared toward children of all ages. The unit also has a “Chill Room” for teens with music, video games and computer access.
The post-surgical unit features 28 private rooms with interactive television programming. It’s designed for patients facing general surgery for gallbladder, urological, gynecological, breast or ear, nose and throat problems.
St. Thomas Aquinas hosts ‘Music and the Arts’
AVONDALE — “Music and the Arts at Saint Thomas Aquinas” will present a concert featuring music of the most famous child prodigy in music history, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 10. “Simply Mozart,” will be performed by the St. Thomas Aquinas Orchestra, Choir and Soloists, under the baton of Matthew S. Sprinkle.
Highlighting the concert is Mozart’s “Coronation Mass,” composed in 1779 at the age of 23 when Mozart served as Konzertmeister of the court orchestra.
The concert will feature acclaimed soloists Karen Hendricks Crawford, soprano; Kathleen Ruhleder, mezzo-soprano; Ken Goodenberger, tenor; and Matthew Scott, bass. Orchestra, choir and soloists will also present Ave Verum Corpus, Alma Dei Creatoris, two settings of Tantum Ergo and other Mozart works.
St. Thomas Aquinas is located at 13720 W. Thomas Road. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at www.musicandthearts.org. General admission is $20; free for students and $60 prime preferred. Seating is limited and advance ticket purchase is recommended. The prime preferred package includes reserved, prime seating, reserved parking and catered reception dinner following the concert.
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JANUARY 17, 2008
School board plans 'Night of Hope'
The Diocesan School Board’s development and advancement committee is looking for help planning an annual signature fundraising event so that it can fully meet identified scholarship needs.
This year, more than half of Catholic school students received financial assistance.
Organizers will begin the planning process next week and pastors, principals and school and community leaders are invited to join. The planning meeting is a chance to learn event details, committees, meeting dates and other ways to get involved.
The “Night of Hope,” scheduled for later this year, will feature an evening of dinner and dancing with an all-school choir providing some of the entertainment. It will celebrate student success in service, academics, athletics, awards, spirituality and more.
The kickoff celebration to plan the fundraiser begins at 6:30 p.m., Jan. 24, at the Diocesan Pastoral Center, 400 E. Monroe St., Phoenix. For more information, e-mail catholic_schools@diocesephoenix.org or call (602) 354-2344.
Youth to tackle poverty in schools, community
Youth across the diocese are using next month’s Super Bowl as a service opportunity.
Most of the Catholic schools in the diocese are counting themselves among more than 50 schools Valleywide that teamed up with the NFL and other groups for the Super Kids-Super Sharing project.
They are collecting books and sports equipment for local underprivileged students and organizations. The items will be sorted Jan. 24 and made available through the NFL Youth Education Town, which is operated by local Catholics.
Additionally, 13 diocesan parishes will be among 31 Catholic parishes statewide and 1,710 Catholic groups nationwide participating in the Souper Bowl of Caring. Each group will collect money and canned goods after Mass on Super Bowl Sunday and donate it to a local charity of their choice.
Last year, 1,500 Catholic groups nationwide, including several in the diocese, collected $1.3 million for local charities. For more information or to join the Souper Bowl of Caring, visit www.souperbowl.org.
Diocesan office conducting parish needs assessment
The diocesan Office of Evangelization for Persons with Disabilities, Pastoral and Cancer Care has released needs assessment surveys to ensure churchgoers with special needs can actively participate in worship and other parish ministries.
There are two surveys, one for those with disabilities or their caretaker who is able to attend Mass and another for Catholics whose special need requires pastoral care outside the parish, such as bringing the Eucharist to the home.
Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted, pastors and the office’s advisory board will use the results to more effectively serve the disabled, ill and those in need of temporary pastoral care due to surgery, etc. It will also help parishes develop programs to further faith formation for the disabled.
The Office of Evangelization for Persons with Disabilities, Pastoral and Cancer Care is one of many sources of help in the Church when dealing with illness or disability.
To access the surveys, visit to www.diocesephoenix.org/disability/ or call (602) 354-2370 to request a hard copy. Deadline is March 3.
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JANUARY 3, 2008
Bethlehem re-creation in Sedona
SEDONA — Hundreds of people entered the gates of Tlaquepaque last month only to find themselves 2,000 years in the past.
Potter’s Hand Productions is a non-profit community theatre company with over 130 actors, singers, dancers and expert technicians of all ages. Based in Sedona, the group presents “Pilgrimage to Bethlehem” yearly in December, free of charge.
After negotiating their way around dirty beggars and granting wide berth to Roman soldiers, visitors to the arts and crafts village were greeted by an official who informed them they were required to register for the census and pay taxes.
Upstairs, in the Plaza del Norte, was a re-creation of the Jerusalem market where ladies presented the time travelers with handfuls of shekels, the currency used at the time. At the top of the stairs stood the tax collector, flanked by imposing guards. Vendors hawked beads, leather and fine cloths while sampling pita and hummus.
Upon descending into the Plaza, visitors found innkeepers guarding their crowded doorways and explaining that even their stable has been taken by a couple expecting a child at any moment. Shepherds expertly guided their sheep and goats through the alleys; angels suddenly appeared and announced the birth of a new king while locals in robes and veils sought confirmation of the rumors. Three wealthy travelers arrived, inquiring about the birth of a king, and explaining their knowledge of this matter and their expensive gifts.
As night fell, a choir sang a backdrop for the Nativity story, played out in front of the visitors.
For more information on these and other productions, or to make a charitable donation, call the group’s executive producer, Jane Alden, at (928) 300-3968 or visit the Web at www.pottershandproductions.com.
— Robyn Dolan
Good Samaritan hospital chapel reopens
A multi-faith blessing ceremony and holiday musical celebration marked the reopening of Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center’s George P. Kokalis Chapel Dec. 18.
Fr. Vince Mesi, OFM, rector of St. Mary’s Basilica, was among the religious leaders who offered a blessing over the chapel.
The 25-year-old chapel recently underwent a $100,000 renovation. It also features new artwork and altar, although the weekly Catholic Mass has been reduced to a Communion service until the hospital can find an available priest.
Good Samaritan said in a statement that the 24-hour chapel is a “place of faith at the center of the hospital” and is “an important sanctuary for families seeking healing and strength.”
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