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Issue # 26042016 April 26, 2016
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Carissimi,
This Sunday at the 10:30 Mass, six of our young parishioners, Erika Correa-Ramirez, Camille Currie, Margaux DeBell, Oscar Frazier, Ogala Nkere, and William Mitchell, will receive Holy Communion for the first time.
Their parents and one of our many wonderful catechists, Faith Ward, have lovingly prepared them for this step in their journey of faith, this step in their pilgrimage of life.
This is a good time to reflect in gratitude for the gift of children in all of our lives-for parents, grandparents and relatives, surely-but especially for our parish community. For all of our doubts and faults, children bring out the best in us. Children engage us in handing on faith and protecting and nourishing life and all that is humane.
I see this in the way we welcome young parents and their toddlers, even with the occasional melt-down. I see our elders funding education for disadvantaged kids of all kinds. I see heaps of school supplies collected. I see people who advocate for the end of child hunger, for earned sick leave for the working poor, for immigration reform that protects children. I see Fr. Watters plugging away with his committee to establish an early learning center here at St. Ignatius.
What a privilege it is to lay down our lives in service to hand on life-life to the fullest.
Let us deepen this day our own love for the Eucharist. Let us commit ourselves to be examples of faith and compassion to inspire the children of our parish and all those given into our care.
By your side, in His Service,
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A Call From Pope Francis - and an Anniversary of an American Classic
by John C. Odean
At a gathering on Sunday of 90,000 people overflowing St. Peter's Square, Pope Francis spoke to young people who were gathered for the Jubilee for boys and girls. "Freedom does not come from things we possess or from doing whatever we want," Pope Francis said. "True freedom and happiness can only be found in the love of Jesus." The Pope continued on: "Jesus calls young people to follow him, just as he did the first disciples...Jesus is waiting patiently for you. He awaits your response. He is waiting for you to say 'yes'."
His call to follow Jesus made me think of the song that became the nation's #1 song on the U.S. pop charts 53 years ago tomorrow (April 27, 1963). The song, "I Will Follow Him" was sung by Margaret Annemarie Battavio, (better known as Little Peggy March), who was only 15 years old, with three more years of high school ahead of her. To hear a young girl sing about the love for a boy that "ever since he touched my hand, I must follow...there isn't an ocean so deep or a mountain so high that can keep me away" - seems a bit obsessive and fixated. He touched my hand and I will follow him to the ends of the earth? Ok...young love. Over the years, really since the movie Sister Act in 1992, the song has become a declaration of those who have determined to become followers of Jesus. Interestingly enough, if you change one word in the song - what was the questionable pursuit of a 15-year-old, becomes the purpose of life for those who know and love Jesus. It's really quite pure and beautiful. The changed word is "hand" which becomes "heart" -
I must follow him, ever since he touched my HEART I knew
That near him I always must be
And nothing can keep him from me
He is my destiny
I'm sure many of you have heard the Sister Act version of "I Will Follow Him" - in which a group of nuns (well, actresses playing nuns) indeed sing about following Jesus. I invite you to watch another presentation as we consider last week's call by Pope Francis to follow Jesus - and tomorrow's 53rd anniversary of the "I Will Follow Him" topping the charts at #1. This version is by André Rieu and his Johann Strauss Orchestra in Maastricht, Netherlands. Performing is an ethnically diverse choir of nuns. That's right, this is the Maastricht NUNS Choir, and they indeed are singing about their devotion to Christ. It moved me greatly with what it means to have had your heart touched by Jesus - and how he becomes your destiny. I hope you enjoy this version as much as I did.
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| | Video: Andre Rieu and the Nuns Choir - I Will Follow Him |
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From Our Friends at Loyola University
#LoyolaRising was an event sponsored by Loyola University on April 16 - 22 that included gathering with other members of the Baltimore community in the following activities: a peaceful march in remembrance of Freddie Gray; a "How to be a White Ally" discussion; updates on what is happening in the trials of the police officers charged in his death; a "Hoods Up," peaceful demonstration on the Loyola Campus; and a "Loyola Rising" event in which people spoke of their experiences on and off campus in a space for solidarity, unity, and reflection.
Sent to us by the Loyola administrative staff is the following email that encapsulates the #LoyolaRising time...and a video that was made during the events entitled "It Could Have Been Me."
Email: The Baltimore Uprising began a year ago as a result of the death of Baltimore native, Freddie Gray. In an attempt to stand in solidarity with our greater Baltimore community and to continue conversations surrounding the systemic racism that plagues our society, a student driven initiative at Loyola University Maryland has been created with the support of various student organizations and offices on campus. It has become a week of activities entitled #LoyolaRising. As members of the Baltimore community, we are active and take a stand against the injustices happening around us. This is an opportunity for us, as Greyhounds, to discern how we can become engaged and informed about the reality of the city that we have come to call home.
As we enter this week, we remember that many of the topics and events challenge us all. The intent of this week is not to place blame on any specific group, but rather to expose us all to the reality that some live each and every day. While discerning over such subjects, some may experience discomfort; we should recognize that this discomfort is normal and should be embraced as part of our growing process as contemplatives in action. However, we also recognize and want to give attention to the fact that discomfort may also be felt especially by those who have close relations with people who have been affected by these issues and/or who are involved in the police force. However, during this process, please keep in mind that the intention of this is not to generalize any specific group including the police force, but rather to highlight the realities within cities such as our own.
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| | Video: "It Could Have Been Me" |
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Worship with Offerings, Liturgy, and Prayer for Others
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POOR BOX
Each weekend St. Ignatius specifies a Poor Box collection for a needful cause. This week's support goes to
Vulnerable Families in Need.
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MASS MUSIC
Here is the listing for the
music selections at next Sunday's10:30 Mass.
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PERSECUTED CHRISTIAN REPORT
Weekly updates on Christian persecution around the globe. Keep a prayerful watch on what is happening with your brothers and sisters!
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If you're interested...you've got to reserve a slot NOW!!!
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Year of Mercy Pilgrimage to Italy with Father Bill Watters
Here's a trip of a lifetime waiting for you. Our own Father Bill Watters is leading a pilgrimage to Italy during this Year of Mercy. The trip dates are October 13-25, 2016. It will start in Rome and end in Naples. The total cost of the package is $4,580 in double room occupancy and includes the following: single supplement $575.00 - Deposit of $500.00. Please note the deposit is due this Saturday, April 30th.
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You are running late for church when you suddenly realize that you haven't sorted your offering envelope for the service. First problem, you can't remember where you left the box of envelopes. The envelopes are eventually tracked down in a kitchen cupboard and now you need to recall how much it is you usually give each week. And then you open your wallet only to discover that the one thing you didn't get around to on your 'to do' list yesterday was take a trip to the ATM to get cash. Oh well, you'll just have to put double in next week... if you remember.
St. Ignatius continues to thrive because of the contributions of parishioners. Contributions come in the form of time, energy and money - what you give of yourself to serve Christ in our Parish, and surrounding community. If St. Ignatius is the church you call home, we ask you to prayerfully consider committing to a regular financial contribution in order to support the ministries of this church.
If you would like to eliminate the Sunday morning "no cash/no envelopes problem", we suggest that you consider
using Faith Direct, because you'll be able to support your church every week - whether you're out of town, unable to attend church due to weather, illness or a family emergency. Your gifts will always be received. To learn more, or to register, click here.
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Monday, May 2 - 7:30 PM
A LECTURE BY SISTER MARY AQUIN O'NEILL, RSM, Ph.D.
A Sister of Mercy and specialist in the areas of theological anthropology and feminist theory, Sister Mary Aquin co-founded Mount Saint Agnes Theological Center for Women after spending some twenty years in higher education. She has taught at Mount Saint Agnes College, Vanderbilt University, Loyola College of Maryland, Salve Regina College, and the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, where her duties included directing a foreign studies program at Tantur Ecumenical Institute near Bethlehem.
In this lecture, Where Does the Mother Go? Reflections on Mary in the Catholic Church, Sister Mary Aquin will trace the development of an important strand of Marian theology from the early Church to the present. She will argue that this approach to Mary is vital for women and for laity as the contemporary Catholic community seeks to determine the rights and responsibilities of each. Much of the lecture will be drawn from her research for the book on Mary, the Mother of God. There is no cost for this event.
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Tuesday, April 26 - 7:00 PM
Embracing God's Gifts
- You are invited to join members of our gay and lesbian community in the Parish Offices at 110 E. Madison Street at 7:00 PM on the 4th Tuesday of each month. This group is open to anyone interested in fostering support, maintaining communications, and encouraging social activities among diverse members of our parish. For more information, contact Gordon Creamer at
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Saturday, April 30 - 10:00 AM
Young Family Ministry - The Young Family Ministry Spring Outing is on Saturday, April 30th. We will meet at Sherwood Gardens (close to Loyola University) for a casual family play-date picnic. The tulips should be at their peak, so we will be surrounded by God's beauty. If the weather is bad, we will take a rain check for May 7 at the same time/place. As always, babies and toddlers are welcome, but newlywed couples without little ones yet, please join us! For more information, click here.
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Monday, May 2 - 7:30 PM
Lecture: Where Does the Mother Go? Reflections on Mary in the Catholic Church - For information about this lecture by Sister Mary Aquin, see block above, or click here.
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Saturday, May 7 - 8:45 AM
Ignatian Morning of Reflections - On the first Saturday of the month, Ignatian Mornings of Reflection are held. These mornings are excellent opportunities to pull away from the hustle and bustle of daily life in order to "dial down" and quiet our hearts before God. This month's focus is
"My sisters and brothers, behold your mother" (John 19:26) and "Mary, the mother of Jesus, gathered with his brothers and sisters in the upper room." (Acts 1:14). The meeting runs from 8:45 AM - Noon and is presented by Fr. Bob Hamm S.J. and Toni Moore- Duggan. All are welcome.
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Saturday, May 7 - 8 PM
Concert: If Music Be the Food... - "If Music Be the Food..." is an exciting new benefit concert series featuring Peabody Conservatory faculty and students with the mission of raising food donations and increasing awareness for the hungry in the Baltimore community. This inaugural concert will celebrate the beauty and joy of trio music-making. For more information, click here.
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Tuesday, May 10 - 6:30 PM
The Inigo Book Group - will meet on Tuesday, May 10 at the parish offices on 110 E. Madison Street to discuss "The Sense of an Ending" by Julian Barnes. The meeting begins with social time at 6:30 PM and is followed by the discussion from 7:00 until 8:30. All are welcome. On June 14 the book group will be discussing "The Power of Myth" by Joseph Campbell. Any questions? Please contact Catherine Young atpianocate2@gmail.com.
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Thursday, May 12 - 6:30 PM
Justice & Peace Committee - is dedicated to the service of faith and the promotion of justice. We are organized through subcommittees that identify particular programs to more effectually: serve the poor and focus on hunger and homelessness in Baltimore City; support Immigration advocacy and projects; advocate for economic justice and legislative initiatives, e.g. paid sick leave and affordable housing; and provide an environment that supports and advocates for racial justice, and develops diversity in our community. Read More
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Sunday, May 15 - 4 PM
An Afternoon of Poetry - The Cultural Arts Committee of St. Ignatius Catholic Community will present an afternoon of poetry featuring Nina Carey Tassi. The day's event is called "Spirit Ascending."
Nina Tassi's poems speak eloquently to men and women who seek deeper meaning in life on this Earth - even though perfection eludes us. As the poet ranges over time and space, she speaks through the voices of towering yet flawed Old Testament figures such as Moses, Sarah and Naomi, revealing their spiritual gains and losses. Read More
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Monday, May 16 - 7:30 PM
A Readers Theater Evening: "Human Life and Human Love' - Join Rev. John J. Conley, SJ, for an evening of Readers Theater on Monday, January 25th in Ignatian Hall. The event begins at 7:30, is free, and is open to the public. For more information, click here.
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Tuesday, May 17 - 6:45 PM
The Women of the New Testament group, which meets on the third Tuesday of the month, is currently discussing Reading the Women of the Bible: A New Interpretation of Their Stories by Tikva Frymer-Kensky. This book addresses two of the most significant intellectual and religious issues of our day: the experiences of women in a patriarchal society and the relevance of the Bible to modern life. For more information,click here.
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Thursday, May 19 - 7:30 PM
Young Adults Paint Night - The young adults are invited to a Paint Night on Thursday, May 19th at 7:30 PM! Join us for snacks, drinks, and art, where you get to create your own canvas painting. Cost is $10 to attend to cover art supplies. Please RSVP to Alli Clayton, alliclayton@st-ignatius.net. Location: Ignatian Hall.
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Sunday, May 22 - 3 PM
Concerto Pastorale: Music of Springtime - On the Feast of the Holy Trinity, Charm City Baroque presents an uplifting program of 18th-century music redolent of the feast day and the delights of Spring. Sacred cantatas by Bach and Telemann commemorate the mystery of the Trinity while instrumental sonatas by Tartini, Pergolesi, Boyce, and Scarlatti evoke the rustic and pastoral life. Join Charm City Baroque for this delightful musical celebration! Concert is free of charge but donations will be gratefully accepted.
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Tuesday, May 27 - 7 PM
Embracing God's Gifts - You are invited to join members of our gay and lesbian community in the Parish Offices at 110 E. Madison Street at 7:00 PM on the 4th Tuesday of each month. This group is open to anyone interested in fostering support, maintaining communications, and encouraging social activities among diverse members of our parish. For more information, click here.
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Pope Francis Tells Teens 'Happiness is not an app you can download'
At Vatican's celebration of youth, pontiff warns against pursuit of possessions and latest fashions
Pilgrims with a banner that says 'Pope Francis one of us' attend mass
during the Vatican's celebration of young people.
Photograph: Ettore Ferrari/EPA
Sunday 24 April 2016 08.51 EDT
Vatican City, Rome (CNA/EWTN News) Teenagers will not find happiness by downloading a smartphone app or acting like a movie star, Pope Francis has said as part of the Vatican's weekend celebration of young people.
"Your happiness has no price. It cannot be bought. It is not an app that you can download on your phones, nor will the latest update bring you freedom and grandeur in love," the pope told Catholic youth gathered under grey skies in St Peter's Square on Sunday.
Speaking during mass to mark the three-day celebration for teenagers, tied to the Vatican's jubilee year of mercy, the 79-year-old pontiff addressed a host of pressures adolescents face in the 21st century.
"Don't believe those who would distract you from the real treasure, which you are, by telling you that life is beautiful only if you have many possessions," Francis said.
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Crux
What Alexander Hamilton and Pope Francis share on immigration -
Speaking at Philadelphia's Independence Hall this past September, Archbishop Charles Chaput turned to the life of Alexander Hamilton-who until recently was one of America's overlooked founding fathers-to set the stage for Pope Francis' address on immigration and religious liberty.
Vatican Pays Tribute to Prince's Legacy - The death of the songwriter, singer and music producer Prince drew reactions from the Vatican and praise for his musical talent. Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi, president of the Pontifical Council for Culture, sent a tweet quoting the artist's song "Sometimes It Snows." Read More
Was Shakespeare Actually a Secret Catholic? - April 23 marked the 400th anniversary of the death of William Shakespeare, the playwright, poet, and actor widely considered to be the most influential literary figure in the English language. Yet, there's one mystery which continues to elude scholars even to this day: what exactly was Shakespeare's relationship with the Catholic Church? And, could he have been a secret Catholic, forced to conceal his true religious identity in an era of persecution? Read More
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America Magazine:
Sanders Takes a Roman Holiday - Heading back to Rome following his moving visit with refugees in Greece on April 16, Pope Francis confirmed to reporters that he had met with U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders that morning as he was leaving his residence. Sanders and other participants at a Vatican conference were staying in the Domus Sanctae Marthae, where the pope lives.
"It was polite" for Sanders, who knew when the pope was leaving, to go downstairs to greet him, the pope said. "If someone thinks greeting someone is to get involved in politics, I recommend he see a psychiatrist." Read More
An Astounding Mercy: After devastation, a prisoner finds a liberating prayer - The quake that struck Sicily in 1908 was the worst in the history of Europe, with over 100,000 casualties. Messina, the epicenter, was flattened in 32 seconds, resulting in 70,000 lives lost in that city alone. Read More
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National Catholic Reporter
Study guide for 'Amoris Laetitia' - When I received a copy of Pope Francis' apostolic exhortation, Amoris Laetitia, I had to do an "all-nighter" reading of it so I could write a column to be posted when the embargo expired at 6 a.m. Eastern time. That is not how you should read the exhortation. Rather, you want to take your time, as I did in reading it the second time.Read More
Vatican Conference Urges Church to Abandon Just War Theory - In John 14:27, on the night before his execution, Jesus said to his disciples, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you." Facing a horrible, violent death, Jesus taught the first leaders of his church to respond to violence with peace. The peace of Jesus -- the only real and lasting peace -- unlike the false "peace" of the world which violently conquers enemies, would be based on total nonviolence. Read More
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Sojourners Magazine
Dorothy Day Gets One Step Closer to Sainthood
The famous Catholic Worker activist Dorothy Day once remarked, "Don't call me a saint. I don't want to be dismissed that easily."
the next step required to become eligible for beatification and then canonization, when a figure officially becomes a saint.
5 Ways Prince's Faith Influenced His Life and Music
- "I'm in love with God, he's the only way / 'Cause you and I know we gotta die some day / If you think I'm crazy, you're probably right".
Prince Rogers Nelson, the artist known as "Prince," has died. The music icon passed away at his home in suburban Minneapolis on Thursday, according to his publicist. He was 57.
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Catholic News Agency
No One is Beyond Conversion, Abby Johnson Tells Georgetown Students
No matter how deeply someone may be entrenched in the culture of death, they are never beyond the loving reach of Christ, said former Planned Parenthood clinic director Abby Johnson to a group of Georgetown University students on Wednesday.
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Relevant Magazine
Don't Confuse America With God's Kingdom
You'd think it was a "Saturday Night Live" skit or a fake headline from The Onion. But it was real. A televangelist really did kick off a rally for Donald Trump in New York by saying that black people don't exist.
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READER NOTIFICATION:
"Parish: the thought" is a publication of St. Ignatius Catholic Community, Baltimore. Each edition contains articles and news feeds that are included for awareness of current topics in our world today. The positions expressed by outside authors and news feeds are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or positions of St. Ignatius Catholic Community or its staff.
- This e-zine was compiled by John C. Odean
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