Obituaries Lectionary Calendar

Find Us On The Web www.cdom.org Obituaries Lectionary Calendar a digital Publication of the Diocese of Memphis Seventy from Memphis diocese attend National Catholic Youth Conference Seventy teens and adults from throughout the Catholic Diocese of Memphis attended the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) in Indianapolis, Ind., in November. The conference is held every other year and brings in about 25,000 teens and adults from throughout the nation to live the Gospel and deepen their relationship with Jesus. Together they prayed, learned, celebrated and strengthened their hearts for discipleship. The theme this year was Here I Am Lord Aquí Estoy Señor. Two priests from the Memphis Diocese participated Father Bruce Cinquegrani from St. Brigid Church in Memphis and Father Dennis Schenkel from St. Jude Church in Martin. There were also two deacons from the Memphis Diocese Deacon Rodney Freed from St. Jude Church in Martin and Deacon Chip Jones from St. Ann Church in Bartlett. Those attending had the opportunity to participate in a Eucharistic Procession from St. John the Evangelist Church to the conference center on Thursday, which officially opened the conference. The sacrament of Reconciliation was also available throughout the conference, as well as daily Mass and a prayer chapel. Keynote speakers included Father Leo Patalinghug, the founder, host and director of Grace Before Meals, an international apostolate to help strengthen families and relationship through God s gift of a family meal; Chris Padgett, a popular speaker, musician, professor and author who is a convert to Catholicism and currently teaches at Franciscan University of Steubenville; Mart Hart, who serves full-time as executive vice president of Life Teen, a Catholic youth ministry movement currently being implemented in 1,600 parishes in 26 countries worldwide; Matt Maher, a gifted songwriter, worship leader, teacher and a five-time Grammy nominee; and (continued on page 2) Volume 3 Number 46 week OF December 10, 2015 Although the four weeks of Advent focus on waiting for Christmas, the church does not just sit around and wait for the main event. It celebrates plenty of major feasts with lots of customs, traditions and even special foods during the month of December. Early in the Advent season, Dec. 6, the church celebrates the feast of St. Nicholas, a fourth-century 70 adults and teens from the Memphis Diocese traveled to Indianapolis, Ind., for the National Catholic Youth Conference in November. quick links Advent focus: a time of waiting and feasts By Carol Zimmerman, Catholic News Service bishop from the region of modernday Turkey, well-known for his generosity. The day has customs similar to Christmas but with variations: Instead of gifts placed in stockings or under the tree, they are placed in children s shoes left outside their bedroom door the previous night. The day is celebrated differently around the world and particularly emphasized in Eastern Europe, but in the United States, it is primarily focused on the shoe custom with an added emphasis on doing good things for others. The St. Nicholas Center in Holland, Michigan, sponsors a traveling St. Nicholas exhibit and also has lots of information on its website, www.stnicholascenter.org, on history of the feast day, ways to celebrate and the distinction between Santa Claus and St. Nicholas. Two days after the feast of St. (continued on page 2)

2 - The West Tennessee Catholic Week of December 10, 2015 Advent... (continued from page 1) Nicholas, the church celebrates the feast of the Immaculate Conception, the patroness of the United States. The feast is a holy day of obligation celebrating the belief that Mary was without sin from the moment she was conceived. The day itself does not have anything to do with Advent but was chosen as the date nine months from the date the church celebrates Mary s birth, Sept. 8. The other Marian feast in December is the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe Dec. 12, which commemorates Mary s appearance to St. Juan Diego in 1531 at Tepayac, a hill northwest of modern-day Mexico City. The Mexican celebration of the tradition also has been adopted by many people from Central and South America and is described as one of the most popular religious feasts for Latinos in the U.S. Many parishes throughout the country celebrate the feast day with re-enactments of Mary appearing to Juan Diego. They also pray the rosary and present roses to statues of Mary, while mariachi bands sing Marian songs. The very next day is the feast of St. Lucy, particularly observed in Scandinavian countries and Italy. Her feast day near the winter solstice and her name, which means light, has made celebrating the young girl martyred in the year 304 a festival of lights. In festivals in Norway and Sweden, the oldest girl in the family traditionally wears a white dress, a red sash as a sign of martyrdom, and a wreath crown with lighted white candles. Other girls also dress as Lucy and walk in procession singing traditional songs and carrying rolls and cookies that are later shared. Other major church and cultural celebrations in December take place over a number of days such as the Latin American tradition of posadas : the re-enactment of the pilgrimage to Bethlehem by Mary and Joseph in search of a room that takes place Dec.16-24. The posadas traditions vary but usually involve groups going from home to home singing traditional Advent and Christmas carols and being turned down until they find one house that gives them shelter and a place to join in prayer and celebration. The Filipino Catholic community celebrates Simbang Gabi a novena of early morning Masses from Dec. 16-24 in the Philippines and Dec. 15-23 in the United States. After Masses, families share traditional holiday sweets and desserts. According to the tradition, families hang lanterns on doors, windows and branches. The last major feasts of the Christmas season are the feast of the Epiphany, often called the feast of the Three Kings, followed a week later by the feast of the baptism of the Lord. In most countries, including the U.S., Epiphany will be celebrated Jan. 3 in 2016. In many countries, children leave treats for the wise men and their camels and, in turn, when the children are sleeping, gifts or candy is left for them. NYC... (continued from page 1) Dr. Carolyn Woo, president and CEO of Catholic Relief Services, the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. The two emcees were Jackie Francois Angel, a full-time speaker, singer, songwriter and worship leader and Paul J. Kim, an international youth speaker, beatboxer and comedian who shares his passion for Jesus Christ and the new evangelization via music, comedy and inspirational talks. Local Catholic musician John Angotti was one of several musicians who performed at the National Catholic Youth Conference in Indianapolis, Ind., in November. 24,000 teens and adults participated in the National Catholic Youth Conference in Indianapolis, Ind., in November, including 70 from the Diocese of Memphis. Mission Statement of The West Tennessee Catholic - Digital Edition The West Tennessee Catholic is a digital news publication dedicated to sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ primarily with the people of the Diocese of Memphis in Tennessee and, secondarily, with the world at large. The West Tennessee Catholic focuses on presenting material which instructs the faithful in church teaching as expressed by the Pope and the Conference of Catholic Bishops, all in accord with the Magisterium. The goal is to teach, encourage, aid in faith formation and support Catholics who seek the truth of Christ and are working toward personal sanctity. The message is shared in a positive, family-oriented, pro-life, nonpartisan and encouraging manner. In addition, news articles emphasize local events and interests specific to our schools, parishes and diocese which show how Catholics are answering the call to be Good Samaritans in the Diocese of Memphis in Tennessee.

Week of December 10, 2015 St. Benedict 30 Plus Club gains new members By Sharon Masterson, director, Communications & Sports Information New members of the 30 Plus Club met early Dec. 3 for a breakfast honoring their achievement of recently receiving a 30 or above on the ACT. They were also formerly recognized at the All-School Mass later that morning. New members are Juniors Ricky Carrasco, Fischer Clarke, Jessica Morrison, Ray Wynne; Seniors Matthew Barczak, Elizabeth Beard, Savannah Boettcher, Ashley Buckingham, Harley Chapman, Michael Culhane, Kennedy Dlabaj, Kate Dudek, Shannon Dunn, Jake Griesmer, John Herin Ben Jones, Katie Koch, Catherine Lessley, Simon Montgomery, Mia Mullen, Lily Newbern, Emma Norman, Carter Pruett, David Schild, Vanessa Tejada, Zoe Thompson Jacob Timmins, Rachel Tong, Allsion Weske. (unable to be present for picture Michael Culhane and John Herin.) St. Francis students canned goods donation By Tina Sosnowski St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School students donated 900 cans of food to Catholic Charities on Dec. 2, 2015! The cans were collected throughout the fall semester from events such as the Red Ribbon Week jeans day,where the theme was We CAN say NO to drugs!, as well as through the middle school religion class collection themes of Macn-Cheese Monday, Tuna Tuesdays, Wice (rice) Wednesdays and Fruity Friday. To be able to fulfill its mission of preaching the Gospel, the church must first evangelize itself, Pope Francis said. Mission, in fact, is a force capable of transforming the church within itself even before it does so in the life of peoples and cultures, the pope told participants of the plenary assembly of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples. The plenary assembly, which commemorated the 50th anniversary of Ad Gentes, the Second Vatican Council s decree on the church s missionary activity, focused on missionary awareness and the work being done in regions of the world that have been evangelized most recently. Recalling his visit to Africa Nov. 25-30, the pope said that he experienced firsthand the spiritual and pastoral dynamism of so many young churches in that continent, as well as the harsh difficulties lived by most of the population. I have seen that where there are needs, there is almost always a presence of the church ready to heal the wounds of the neediest in whom they recognize the wounded and crucified body of our Lord Jesus, he said. The pope said that by its very nature, the church evangelizes; however, it must always begin by evangelizing itself in order to have the grace of the Holy Spirit as its foundation and safeguard its apostolic freshness and urgency. The West Tennessee Catholic - 3 Church must first evangelize itself, pope says By Junno Arocho Esteves, Catholic News Service In this way, he said, The Holy Spirit transforms those who are believers by habit only into disciples (and) alienated disciples into missionaries, pulling them out of their fears and closures and sending them in every direction, to the ends of the world. Pope Francis said that in evangelizing young churches, missionaries are called to a stepby-step, kerygmatic approach to faith and that missionaries must learn to listen to the cry of the poor and the marginalized. Let us pray and work so that the church is always more along the lines of the Acts of the Apostles, which describes the lifestyle and missionary enthusiasm of the first Christians, he said. Let us be inspired by the power of the Gospel and the Holy Spirit. MARRIAGE MOMENTS By Susan Vogt, www.susanvogt.net In the spirit of Advent waiting, practice waiting on your spouse today. While waiting for your spouse to arrive, calmly remember the good person you are awaiting (instead of stewing if he or she is late). Or wait on your spouse in the sense of doing a favor for him or her. Eighth grade students (pictured) assisted Catholic Charities in counting, packing and loading the canned goods!

4 - The West Tennessee Catholic Week of December 10, 2015 A statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe is pictured in 2014 in Los Angeles. Our Lady of Guadalupe s feast day is celebrated Dec. 12. (CNS photo/ Victor Aleman, Vida-Nueva.com) PARENTING POINTERS By Susan Vogt, www.susanvogt.net Too busy? A traditional Hindu attitude toward service is for parents to pull back from doing much outside service while their children are young. When the children are raised, they jump fully back into the service area. To everything there is a season. (Raising Kids Who Will Make a Difference) Seminarians join climate justice activists at a plaza in Manila, Philippines, Nov. 29, the day before the start of the U.N. climate change conference, known as the COP21 summit, in Paris. (CNS photo/simone Orendain) On eve of U.N. climate summit, Catholics join in calls for change By Catholic News Service Hundreds of thousands of people in at least 150 countries around the world demanded action on climate change on the eve of a U.N. conference that aimed to find agreement on greenhouse gas emissions. Heads of state traveled to Paris for the Nov. 30-Dec. 11 Conference of Parties, or COP21, in the Paris suburb of Le Bourget. Catholic organizations advocating to protect the world and its people from the impact of climate change said the terror attacks in Paris had not dissuaded them from attending a major U.N. summit there. Interfaith leaders gathered in Saint-Denis, France, Nov. 28 to hand over a petition with more than 1.8 million signatures 800,000 collected by Catholic organizations calling for action on climate change. At the event, Brazilian Cardinal Claudio Hummes, president of the Pan-Amazonian Church Network, referred to Pope Francis encyclical Laudato Si, on Care for Our Common Home, and to an October appeal by Catholic bishops worldwide that called for a fair, binding and truly transformational climate agreement in Paris. We ask for drastic cuts of carbon emissions to keep the global temperature rise below the dangerous threshold of 1.5 C, the cardinal said. As the bishops appeal states, we need to put an end to the fossil fuel era and set a goal for complete decarbonization by 2050. And we ask wealthier countries to aid the world s poorest to cope with climate change impacts, by providing robust climate finance, he added. Originally, hundreds of thousands were expected to march in Paris Nov. 29, but the march was canceled after the Nov. 13 terrorist attacks. Instead, Parisians and others from around the world donated shoes and set them up at Place de la Republique. The display was disrupted as Paris police used tear gas to break up an unauthorized demonstration. Jesuit Father Michael Czerny, who works at the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, confirmed Pope Francis donated a signed pair of shoes to the display. Cardinal Hummes and Cardinal Peter Turkson, president of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, also signed and donated shoes. (continued on page 5)

Week of December 10, 2015 Climate... (continued from page 4) From Seoul, South Korea, to Ottawa, Ontario; New York to Sao Paulo, people marched to demand climate change. Some, like those in Oakland, California, marched more than a week ahead. Most advocates gathered Nov. 28-29, such as in Nairobi, Kenya, where people planted trees in Uhuru Park. In Washington, about 500 people, including members of parishes in Washington, Maryland and northern Virginia, came out for a march around the White House Nov. 29. One couple, members of a parish in Los Altos, California, joined them after learning about the march from the Global Catholic Climate Movement. Many participants carried signs referring to Laudato Si. In Ottawa, Ontario, and Vancouver, British Columbia, church leaders joined environmentalists and First Nations members in marches Nov. 29. In London, hundreds of supporters of CAFOD, the overseas development agency of the Catholic Church in England and Wales, braved wind and rain to join more than 50,000 marchers. CAFOD said the march included an interfaith service at Westminster Synagogue involving about 200 campaigners from Christian, Muslim, Jewish and Buddhist traditions, who reflected on the issues that united them and recommitted themselves to caring for creation, for our neighbors and to tackling climate change. In Manila, Philippines, dozens of religious added their voices to the cry of mostly Catholic activists during a climate march on a humid, overcast morning. In the plaza across the street from Our Lady of Remedies Church, Sacred Heart Missionaries seminarian Reynon Ajero held up colorful signs that said Resist the plunder of our environment and a reference to the pope s Laudato Si. Ajero said he grew up in a mountainous village in the southern province of Zamboanga del Norte populated with plenty of diversity in animals, trees and wild flowers. On Nov. 29, he lamented the significant loss of trees to mining and the disappearance of the animals from his childhood. I want to ask all the people to be awake, he told Catholic News Service. I want to make the people know that we are suffering for what is our mistake to our mother earth. So whatever we do to ourselves, we do to the mother earth, it will return to us. This message in the plaza was played out over and over in singing, dance numbers and dramatizations of the impacts of the earth s rising temperatures. Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo opened an outdoor Mass with a prayer of hope during the lighting of the first candle on an Advent wreath. Hope for the enlightenment of all peoples, that we are just a strand in the web of life, that what we do to the environment, we do to ourselves, said Bishop Pabillo. Lou Arsenio, head of the Manila Archdiocese Ecology Ministry and one of the originators of the Global Catholic Climate Movement, since the movement started about a year ago, she has seen greater awareness among Catholics, but she told Catholic News Service there is more work to do. In Melbourne, Australia, Nov. 27, more than 40,000 people marched in the city s central business district to call for action on climate change. A statement on the website of the Archdiocese of Melbourne said Catholics were at the forefront of the march. Honduran Cardinal Oscar Rodriguez Maradiaga, former president of Caritas Internationalis, told the crowd: We were given a garden. We may not deliver back a desert. The West Tennessee Catholic - 5 Bishop Steib honored with Holy Family Award Catholic Charities of West Tennessee Each year at Christmas, Catholic Charities of West Tennessee names its Holy Family Award honorees for that year. Awarded annually, the Holy Family Award is the highest honor we bestow and it recognizes the efforts of individuals, groups and organizations who have sought to advance the work of Catholic Charities of West Tennessee. Lifetime Achievement Most Reverend J. Terry Steib, SVD: Through more than 22 years as Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Memphis, Bishop Terry Steib has provided unwavering support for the Mission of Catholic Charities of West Tennessee the social services arm of the diocese. His leadership, accessibility and gentle guidance has kept us focused on the needs of our less fortunate brothers and sisters. Corporate Partner Hilton Worldwide: Engages with the efforts of CCWTN in three ways; financial, volunteer and with in-kind support. The ongoing efforts of the Team Members at Hilton Worldwide can be seen in our Food Distribution, Camp Love & Learn and Immigration programs. Community Partner Holliday Flowers and Events: Has supported our Bouquets of Hope ministry since its inception with fresh flowers from its inventory, by encouraging their wedding and corporate clients to donate flowers at the conclusion of events and by supplying design and logistical support. Volunteer of the Year Al Gearhart: Has led a ten-fold increase in the number of people served by our various food distribution programs since 2011. Dedicating more than 20 hours of his time in a typical week, Al has introduced walking bags for the chronically homeless of mid-town Memphis, launched a weekly mobile distribution to various food insecure communities in west Tennessee, partnered with the Mid-South Food Bank for quarterly large-scale food distributions and added a food component to our annual Gifts for God s Children Christmas-time outreach. Through Al s leadership, more than 22,000 of our hungry neighbors will be fed in 2015. Bishop Stieb holds his Lifetime Achievement Holy Family Award from Catholic Charities of West Tennessee. More photos from the awards ceremony on page 16.

6 - The West Tennessee Catholic Week of December 10, 2015 Switching churches? By Father Kenneth Doyle, Catholic News Service Q. The older I get, the more this is on my mind. I grew up in the Methodist Church but became a Catholic when I married my husband more than 60 years ago. We raised our children in the Catholic Church, and my husband passed away in 2006. Now, at the age of 84, I feel a strong desire to attend the Methodist Church of my childhood. I don t know that I really want to rejoin that church after all these years; I think it s more just wanting to go to their services a few times. (I have friends who belong to our local Methodist parish, and they would be happy to have me accompany them.) A. To be a Catholic is to be committed to certain core principles of faith. Among them are the centrality of the Eucharist and the conviction that Jesus has entrusted to Peter and his successors the task of guiding the church, with the guarantee of doctrinal purity. Since you have pledged allegiance to those principles of faith for 60 years, I would find it surprising if you were ready to forsake them now. In my mind it s more likely as happens when each of us age that you are experiencing a nostalgic longing for some of the experiences and surroundings of the past. Listen to The Catholic Cafe Sundays at 10 a.m. on KWAM AM 990 in Memphis and on WYVY 104.9 FM in West Tennessee. Also on Relevant Radio Network (www.relevantradio.com) Sundays at 5 a.m. and 1 p.m. (Central). What do you think of this? Am I just longing for the past, or is it a sign that I am not completely satisfied with the Catholic Church? I don t know that I will act on this wish (my kids would be shocked if I did) but the thought is very often on my mind. (Iowa) I don t see any harm in your accompanying your friends to an occasional Methodist service and perhaps be reminded of the religious enthusiasm you felt in your youth. But I would think it wise perhaps even before you do that to talk with a sympathetic priest who might help you to sort out your feelings. --- Questions may be sent to Father Kenneth Doyle at askfatherdoyle@ gmail.com and 40 Hopewell St. Albany, N.Y. 12208.

Week of December 10, 2015 EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES CATHOLIC SCHOOLS Development Specialist - Jubilee Catholic Schools Network (Memphis, TN) About the Jubilee Catholic Schools Network Known nationally as the Miracle in Memphis, the Jubilee Catholic Schools Network is an unprecedented example of previously closed Catholic schools re-opening to serve predominantly low-income students through significant philanthropic support. The Jubilee network serves approximately 1,600 students of many faiths across eight elementary schools and a middle/high school. The Jubilee Catholic Schools are committed to providing students a truly excellent education that is rooted in faith and academic rigor. The New York Times has noted that the most successful [urban Catholic school] model of all may well be in Memphis. The Jubilee Catholic Schools Network has recently launched enhanced programming that will help students achieve higher and higher levels of excellence. The Jubilee Catholic Schools Network is eager to hire exceptionally talented individuals who are committed to helping our students become all that they were created to be. Position Overview The Development Specialist will manage the core operations for development including, but not limited to, database management, gift processing, donor acknowledgment and maintaining donor records. The position is also responsible for providing a high level of support to the Development & Communications department and will manage donor relations processes for Network-wide donors. This role will serve as liaison for the Blue Streak Scholarship Fund, Inc. and will work to align efforts toward the common goal of the two organizations. The ideal candidate will be organized, articulate, self-motivated, a strongwriter and communicator with high attention to detail and must have a passion for the compelling mission of the Jubilee Catholic Schools Network. The specialist will report to the director of Development & Communications. What We Offer Competitive compensation package including medical, dental, and retirement benefits Mission-driven, joyful, respectful working environments Opportunity to positively impact the lives of thousands of young people How to Apply Please send a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references to nikki.tubbs@jso.cdom.org. The West Tennessee Catholic - 7 Vocations, Catholic community life must serve each other, pope says Vocations to the priesthood and religious life are born within the Christian community, are meant to build up the Christian community and rely on the community for support, Pope Francis said. The church is the house of mercy, and it is the soil where vocations take root, mature and bear fruit, the pope wrote in his message for the 2016 observance of the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, which will be celebrated April 17 in most dioceses. The church, mother of vocations is the theme Pope Francis chose for the day. While God calls individuals, and individuals have a duty to discern in prayer the vocation to which they are called, the call to priesthood or religious life comes because one has been baptized into the community of the church, the pope said. The ecclesial dynamism of the call is an antidote to indifference and to individualism. Vocations are born within the church community, so indifference is vanquished by love, because it demands that we go beyond ourselves and place our lives at the service of God s plan, embracing the historical circumstances of his holy people, the pope wrote. Pope: Stopping climate change, poverty go hand-in-hand Heads of states at the U.N. climate change conference in Paris must do everything possible to mitigate the effects of both climate change and poverty for the good of our common home, Pope Francis said. The two choices go together: to stop climate change and curb poverty so that human dignity may flourish, he said Dec. 6 after reciting the Angelus with pilgrims gathered in St. Peter s Square. The pope said he was closely following the climate conference and thinking about how conference participants are called to respond to the question, What kind of world do we want to leave to those who come after us, to children who are now growing up? The conference participants, he said, must spare no effort in combating climate change for the good of our common home, of all of us and future generations. Let us pray the Holy Spirit enlighten all those who are called to make such important decisions and give them the courage to always have the greater good of the entire human family as the criterion to guide their decisions, he said. Before his appeal, the pope reflected on the day s Gospel reading from St. Luke (3:1-6), which recalled John the Baptist s call for a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Adult Faith Formation Classes 2016 Brochure Please visit www.cdom.org, click Ministries, click Catechesis, click Schedule to view the 2016 brochure of Adult Faith Formation opportunities. CLICK HERE TO VIEW BROCHURE>

8 - The West Tennessee Catholic Week of December 10, 2015 EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES CATHOLIC SCHOOLS St. Benedict at Auburndale High School Senior Director of Technology The Director is responsible for the One to One technology program as well as overseeing the Information Technology staff. The Director is responsible for designing, configuring, installing, maintaining, and repairing network systems, subsystems and servers; overseeing the computer/server room/help desk operation and environment; providing information, direction and/or recommendations regarding network installations and configurations including, but not limited to, television, intercom, telephone, bells, security, administrative software, doors and wireless systems; resolving network operational issues; and providing technical support to all faculty and staff. This position reports to the principal and does require some evening and weekend hours as necessary. - Education: Bachelors degree in job related area - Experience: Minimum of five years administrative experience in a educational setting - Working Environment: The usual and customary methods of performing the job s functions require the following physical demands: significant lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling; frequent climbing and balancing, some stooping, kneeling, and crouching and/or crawling. Please send cover letter and resume to: Director of Human Resources, 5825 Shelby Oaks Drive, Memphis, TN 38134. Catholic Cemeteries Memorial Tree Program The Memorial Tree Program offers families an opportunity to remember and honor their loved ones while enhancing the beauty of Historic Calvary and All Saints Cemeteries. NEW Plantings Plant A Tree Option A - For a donation of $400 a new tree will be planted in memory of your loved one, and a memorial plaque will be displayed by the tree for a period of ten years. In addition your loved one s name will be engraved on the Remembrance Plaque on display in Calvary s Office indefinitely. Plant-A-Tree Option B - For a donation of $250 Plant a Crepe Myrtle, Red Bud, Dog Wood and other Ornamental Trees in memory of a loved one. A memorial plaque will be displayed by the tree for the period of five years. In addition your loved one s name will be engraved on the remembrance plaque on display in Calvary s Office indefinitely. EXISTING Planting Adopt-A-Tree - For a donation of $150 an established tree already planted on the grounds may be selected in memory of a loved one. A memorial plaque will be displayed by the tree for a period of three years. How the Money is Used Your money is used for the conservation and enhancement of the Catholic Cemeteries. Not only will your donation offset the purchases of new tree s and plants for the grounds, your contribution helps maintain the beautiful, natural environment of the Catholic Cemeteries. Holy Rosary Eucharistic Conference 2016 Your Donation is Tax-Deductible Your contribution is tax deductible. You will receive a written acknowledgement of your donation from the Catholic Cemeteries. For further details, you may wish to contact your tax advisor. Call (901) 948-1529 for more information. Plant a tree today for a loved one! 3rd Annual Holy Rosary Eucharistic Conference Friday, Jan. 22, 2016 6:00 p.m. Jan. 23, 2016 1:30 p.m. Holy Rosary Eucharistic Conference will take a closer look at the roots of our faith with the theme The Jewish Roots of the Eucharist. The keynote speaker will be Dr. Lawrence Feingold, a Jewish convert to Catholicism and associate professor of philosophy and theology at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis, Mo. Feingold is both an artist and a theologian who holds a master s degree in art history from Columbia University in New York and a doctorate in sacred theology from the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome, Italy. At the Eucharistic Conference, Feingold will offer his keynote presentation at 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 22 in the sanctuary at Holy Rosary. On Jan. 23, the conference opens with Mass at 8:15 a.m., followed at 9:30 a.m. by a presentation by Monsignor Victor P. Ciaramitaro, pastor of St. Michael Catholic Church in Memphis. Dr. Feingold will make a second presentation at 10:30 a.m. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction will follow Dr. Feingold s speech on Saturday. Lunch will be provided at 12:30 p.m. Admission is free. Participants may register onsite at 6 p.m. Jan. 22 in the Holy Rosary Family Room. Contact Information (901) 767-6949. PROTECTING GOD S CHILDREN In order to prevent abuse and the devastating consequences for all involved, the Diocese of Memphis is providing information for anyone who needs help. Tennessee Child Abuse Hot Line 1-877-237-0004 Where to get help in the Diocese of Memphis: Shari Lee, LCSW, DCSW - Victim Assistance Coordinator (901) 652-4066 or Dr. Jim Latta, Office of Child and Youth Protection and Professional Responsibility (901) 652-4353

Week of December 10, 2015 Prayer books for Advent, Christmas, Year of Mercy By Nancy Frazier O Brien, Catholic News Service The West Tennessee Catholic - 9 The Diocese of Memphis publishes obituaries provided by the individual parishes. If you have a question concerning an obit please contact the parish directly. Here is a list of new books suitable for reading during Advent, the Christmas season and the Year of Mercy: Advent and Christmas Wisdom from Pope Francis by John Cleary, Liguori Publications (Liguori, Missouri, 2015). 136 pp., $11.99. Goodness and Light: Readings for Advent and Christmas edited by Michael Leach, James Keane and Doris Goodnough. Orbis Books (Maryknoll, New York, 2015). 269 pp., $16. Six Ways to Pray From Six Great Saints by Gloria Hutchinson. Franciscan Media (Cincinnati, 2015). 144 pp., $14.99. His Mercy Endures Forever: Encountering God s Mercy in the Mass by Stephen S. Wilbricht, CSC. Available in English or Spanish. Liturgy Training Publications (Chicago, 2015). 30 pp., $1.59. Sacred Reading for Advent and Christmas 2015-2016 by Apostleship of Prayer. Ave Maria Press (Notre Dame, Indiana, 2015). 75 pp., $1.25. Advent Christmas Grace: Daily Gospel Reflections by the Daughters of St. Paul. Pauline Books & Media (Boston, 2015). 137 pp., $8.95. God With Us: Rediscovering the Meaning of Christmas edited by Greg Pennoyer & Gregory Wolfe. Paraclete Press (Orleans, Massachusetts, 2015). 180 pp., $18.99. Healing: Bringing the Gift of God s Mercy to the World by Mary Healy. Our Sunday Visitor (Huntington, Indiana, 2015). 207 pp., $15.95. How the Light Gets In and Other Headlong Epiphanies by Brian Doyle. Orbis Books (Maryknoll, New York, 2015). 130 pp., $16. Intimate Graces: How Practicing the Works of Mercy Brings Out the Best in Marriage by Teresa Tomeo (Pastore) and Dominick Pastore. Ave Maria Press (Notre Dame, Indiana, 2015). 139 pp., $13.95. The Advent of God s Word: Listening for the Power of the Divine Whisper -- A Daily Retreat & Devotional by Rev. Dr. Brenda K. Buckwell, Obl. OSB. SkyLight Paths (Woodstock, Vermont, 2015). 208 pp., $16.99. Hope and a Whole Lotta Prayer: Daily Devotions for Parents of Teenagers by Barbara Canale. Liguori Publications (Liguori, Missouri, 2015). 384 pp., $19.99. Word by Word: Slowing Down With the Hail Mary edited by Sarah A. Reinhard. Ave Maria Press (Notre Dame, Indiana, 2015). 160 pp., $14.95. Advent with Pope Francis: Daily Reflections and Prayers edited by Marianne Lorraine Trouve, FSP. Pauline Books & Media (Boston, 2015). 85 pp., $7.95. The St. Teresa of Avila Prayer Book by Vinita Hampton Wright. Paraclete Press (Orleans, Massachusetts, 2015). 160 pp., $16.99. Remembering God s Mercy: Redeem the Past and Free Yourself from Painful Memories by Dawn Eden. Ave Maria Press (Notre Dame, Indiana, 2016). 160 pp., $14.95. Pope Francis and the Joy of Family Life: Daily Reflections edited by Kevin Cotter. Our Sunday Visitor (Huntington, Indiana, 2015). 381 pp., $16.95. Divine Mercy for Moms: Sharing the Lessons of St. Faustina by Michele Faehnle and Emily Jaminet. Ave Maria Press (Notre Dame, Indiana, 2016). 160 pp., $14.95. Obituaries CHAMPION A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Nov. 30 for Rev. Mr. James Champion, 78, at St. Ann Church by Rev. Russell D. Harbaugh, concelebrants, Rev. Richard Coy, Rev. Keith Stewart and numerous deacons. Burial was at Forest Hill Cemetery East. Survivors include spouse, Mary Champion; daughters, Julie Yopp and Regina Wiggins; son, Mark Thomas Champion; six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. MULROONEY A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Nov. 28 for Helen Mulrooney, 94, at St. Ann Church by Rev. Russell D. Harbaugh. Burial was at Calvary Cemetery. Survivors include sons, Anthony (Tony) Mulrooney and Joseph Mulrooney; six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. NICHOLS A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Dec. 2 for Ellsworth Jay Nichols Jr., 77, at Church of the Resurrection by Rev. Benjamin P. Bradshaw. Survivors include daughters, Christina Blanchard-Horan and Mary Ann Nichols; son Ellsworth Jay Nichols III; sister, Mary Louise Solaas; four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. ROSEN A funeral home service was conducted Dec. 3 for Patricia Rosen, 94, at Memorial Park Funeral Home by Rev. James Clark. Burial was at Memorial Park Cemetery. Survivors include daughters, Lesley Welch and Mary Rosen Singer; sister, Alice Jefferson; brothers, Robert Jefferson; and three grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. Fr. Joseph L. Paolozzi Funeral Mass for Fr. Joseph L. Paolozzi, SM, was celebrated on Thursday, Dec. 10, at 12 noon. He died Dec. 5. Father Joe was born in Utica, New York to Samuel and Marie (Malek) Paolozzi on March 28, 1932. He was ordained as a priest by the Society of Mary (Marianists) on July 16, 1961 in Fribourg, Switzerland. He came to the Memphis Catholic Diocese in 1978 and was appointed to the position of chaplain at St. Peter s Manor, partly due to his advanced studies in gerontology through the University of Michigan. Throughout his years in the Catholic Diocese of Memphis, Father Joe served at various parishes including: Our Lady of Sorrows from 1983-1987, St. Mary s in Camden from 1987-1996 and St. Jude in Martin from 1996 until 2011, when he officially retired. May Father Joe rest in eternal peace. Love Your Neighbor: Praying Your Way to a Better Life by Eddie Ensley. Franciscan Media (Cincinnati, 2015). 160 pp., $14.99. Sacred Reading: The 2016 Guide to Daily Prayer by Apostleship of Prayer. Ave Maria Press (Notre Dame, Indiana, 2015). 416 pp., $15.95. Praying the Rosary: A Journey Through Scripture and Art by Denis McBride. Liguori Publications (Liguori, Missouri, 2015). 136 pp., $19.99.

10 - The West Tennessee Catholic Week of December 10, 2015 Reflections On Sunday's Readings By Jean Denton, Catholic News Service Sunday Scripture Readings, Dec. 13, 2015 Dec. 13, Third Sunday of Advent Cycle C. Readings: (1) Zephaniah 3:14-18a, Psalm: Isaiah 12:2-6 (2) Philippians 4:4-7 (Gospel) Luke 3:10-18 Recently I was invited to lead a discussion on evangelization as part of a faith formation series hosted by a local group of Catholic young adults. But as people arrived for that evening s session, their informal conversations were all focused on a fatal shooting that had occurred in our small city earlier in the day. The entire community was shocked and in mourning, and this group felt particularly connected to the tragedy because the two victims were their peers: young people in their 20s, just starting out in promising careers, committed relationships and happily anticipating what lies ahead. So the group began the gathering with an earnest prayer for these young adults and their families and friends. Later, as we talked about Christ s call to all of us to go and make disciples, I prompted the group to consider what motivated them, personally, to evangelize. Why do you want to share the Gospel and encourage others to live this life of Jesus? I asked. One participant, Joe, began his response simply, To make the world a better place. Then he went deeper: If everyone was caring and loving, if everyone lived the way of Jesus, with concern and compassion for everyone else, imagine how different humanity would be. Imagine what life would be like. There wouldn t be such terrible things as what happened today. This third Sunday of Advent calls us to joyful expectation. It calls us to anticipate the coming of Christ to humanity. It calls us to imagine, as Joe does, life fully infused by the spirit of Jesus. In Luke s Gospel, John the Baptist reminds us also to prepare the way for it. The crowd asks, What should we do? John exhorts them to treat everyone justly and with dignity. Additionally, today s readings tell us to spread the life of Christ. Give thanks to the Lord, acclaim his name; among the nations make known his deeds, the prophet Isaiah says, and Paul tells the Philippians, Your kindness should be known to all. In effect, live and proclaim Jesus s Gospel. Joe said it can transform humanity. Zephaniah said it will. Fear not, he prophesied, the Lord, your, God is in your midst, a mighty savior. Live Jesus life. Spread his message. Expect joy. Lectionary Readings Year B of the Sunday Cycle Dec. 6-12 Dec. 13 Reading 1, Zephaniah 3:14-18 Responsorial Psalm, Isaiah 12:2-3, 4, 5-6 Reading 2, Philippians 4:4-7 Gospel, Luke 3:10-18 Dec. 14 Reading 1, Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17 Gospel, Matthew 21:23-27 Dec. 15 Reading 1, Zephaniah 3:1-2, 9-13 Gospel, Matthew 21:28-32 Dec. 16 Reading 1, Isaiah 45:6-8, 18, 21-25 Gospel, Luke 7:18-23 Dec. 17 Reading 1, Genesis 49:2, 8-10 Gospel, Matthew 1:1-17 Dec. 18 Reading 1, Jeremiah 23:5-8 Gospel, Matthew 1:18-24 Stay informed and entertained with FAITH magazine! Click HERE to subscribe.

Week of December 10, 2015 Calendar DECEMBER 2015 12 Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. 7 p.m., the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 1695 Central Ave., Memphis. 12 Catholic Charities Volunteer Saturday. 9 a.m.-noon.volunteers are needed at Catholic Charities, 1325 Jefferson Ave. Memphis, for our Gifts for God s Children Shopping Day. Shop from our donations that have been sorted and organized in our Santa s Workshop. Sign-up at http://tinyurl.com/volsat12-12 or call Lucie Johnson at (901) 722-4797. 14 Holy Hour of Mercy for Reparation. Remember Fatima. 3-4 p.m., St Ann Bartlett / St Faustina Shrine 6529 Stage Rd Bartlett. *Please come! Pray with us. To the Blessed Mother we say: We Remember Led by Deacon Wayne Morton and Jay Hastings. 17-18 Catholic Charities Distribution Day. Help distribute gifts and food to families in our Christmas program. Shifts are from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Catholic Charities of West Tennessee,1325 Jefferson Ave. Memphis. Sign up at http://tinyurl.com/gfgcdistro2015 or contact Lucie at (901) 722-4797. The West Tennessee Catholic - 11 Calendar JANUARY 2016 15-17 SEEKERS Retreat for 20s/30s. Do you consider yourself a spiritual or religious person? Are you searching for answers about your faith, your life, or your relationships? Are you seeking a down-to-earth approach to your spirituality? Connect with others seeking to answer similar questions about their lives. Attend the retreat at Our Lady Queen of Peace Retreat Center. For more information, visit http://cyamemphis.org/blog/young-adult-seekersretreat-january-15-17/ or email Samuel.Mauck@ccm.cdom.org. 22 Cathedral Women s Ministry Presents I LOVE Memphis Trivia. 7-10 p.m., Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Marian Hall, 1695 Central Ave, Memphis. Prizes include top 2 teams, Split the Pot, Top Decorated Table and Door Prizes; doors open at 6 p.m. so come early and decorate your table. Bring your own snacks, dinner, beverages of your choice. Register at www.iccathedral.org/trivia. Make checks payable to IC and mail or drop off at the parish office: 1695 Central Ave., Memphis, TN 38104. Contact Maureen Burt for further information or to register: burtmaureen@hotmail.com. Prices starting at $2,499 ~ with Airfare Included in this price from anywhere in the USA Several trips to different destinations: the Holy Land; Italy; France, Portugal, & Spain; Poland; Medjugorje, Lourdes, & Fatima; Ireland & Scotland; England; Austria, Germany, & Switzerland; Greece & Turkey; Viking Cruises; Caribbean Cruises; Budapest; Prague; Our Lady of Guadalupe; Domestic Destinations; etc We also specialize in custom trips for Bishops, Priests, and Deacons. Call Us 24/7 508-340-9370 Hablamos Español 855-842-8001 www.proximotravel.com Carmela Manago anthony@proximotravel.com Executive Director Natural Family Planning The Billings Ovulation Method Totally moral, healthy, and steroid free. Class Series Begins Saturday, Jan. 16, 2016-10:00 a.m. Catholic Center - Pre-Registration Required Register online at www.cdom.org or call (901) 373-1285. Next class series begins Monday, Feb. 8, 2016, 6:30 p.m.

12 - The West Tennessee Catholic Week of December 10, 2015 CHECK OUT OUR UPCOMING RETREATS! Something for everyone. CLICK HERE FOR MORE RETREAT INFORMATION. The Catholic Diocese of Memphis does not tolerate child abuse. Anyone who suspects child abuse is occurring needs to call the Abuse Hotline and diocesan Human Resources. Trained case managers respond 24/7 when you call the Hotline. You will be asked for the victim s name, addresses and names of family members. You will need to describe the situation, victim s condition, and any information reported by the victim about abuse. Please also notify the Catholic Diocese of Memphis Human Resources. Abuse Hotline 1-877-237-0004 Catholic Diocese Human Resources 1-901-373-1257 For non-emergencies, report online at https://apps.tn.gov/carat/.

Week of December 10, 2015 The West Tennessee Catholic - 13 May the peace and hope of Christ s birth be with your family now and in the days ahead... Wishes your family a blessed Christmas and New Year.

14 - The West Tennessee Catholic Week of December 10, 2015

Week of December 10, 2015 The West Tennessee Catholic - 15 A Christmas message from The Catholic Cemeteries - Diocese of Memphis To The Families Who Have Lost a Love one This Year Rev. Patrick Hirtz 12/01 Rev. Benjamin Bradshaw 12/02 Rev. Keith Stewart 12/23 Rev. W.E. Knickerbocker 12/28 Adult Faith Formation Classes 2016 Brochure Please visit www.cdom.org, click Ministries, click Catechesis, click Schedule to view the 2016 brochure of Adult Faith Formation opportunities. CLICK HERE TO VIEW BROCHURE> My First Christmas in Heaven I see the countless Christmas trees around the world below with lights, like Heaven s Stars, Reflecting on the snow. The sight is so spectacular, please wipe away the tears for I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year. I here the many Christmas songs that people hold so dear, but the sound of music can t compare with the Christmas choir up here. I have no words to tell you, the joy their voices bring for it is beyond description to hear the angels sing. I know how much you miss me. I see the pain inside your heart, but I am not so far away, we really aren t apart. So be happy for me dear ones, you know I hold you dear and be glad that I m spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year. I sent you each a special gift from my heavenly home above, I sent each a memory of my undying love. After all love is a gift more precious than pure gold, it was always most important in the stories Jesus told. Please love and keep each other, as my Father said to do for I can t count the blessing or love He has for each of you. So have a Merry Christmas and wipe away that tear, remember I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year. - Author unknown The Staff of the Catholic Cemeteries Would like to wish You and Your Families A very Merry and Blessed Christmas Season Along with a Happy and Blessed New Year. A time to remember our treasured gifts. Give generously in our second collection at the Christmas Masses. Senior Priests Residence Diocese of Memphis Villa Vianney Photo taken in St. John Vianney Chapel.

16 - The West Tennessee Catholic Week of December 10, 2015 CCWTN Holy Family Awards