"You can't go to heaven hating somebody. Forgive now. Be
compassionate now. Be patient now. Be grateful now. Love Jesus and Mary now.
Accept God's will now."
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Archbishop Chaput's Column: Women in the New Evangelization
This week’s column is adapted from the Archbishop’s opening remarks to the October 21 WINE: Women In the New Evangelization national conference, held at Doylestown’s Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa.
"Good morning, and thank you for being here — all 1,250 of you. This is a sold-out conference with women from all over the country...This is a roomful of feminine zeal, and that’s good news for the Church; bad news for the devil...“ Click here to read the full column (en español)
See photos from the WINE Conference on October 21!
Evangelization News, Tips & Ideas
Welcome, Sisters of Life!
If you haven't yet seen them around, you will eventually! The Archdiocese of Philadelphia is pleased to welcome five Sisters of Life who have recently moved to the convent at St. Malachy's parish in Philadelphia. Much more information is coming soon about the sisters' mission in Philadelphia. For now, we are pleased to introduce them and give them a heartfelt welcome. Stay tuned to our Marriage and Family email list to get updates about how you can help the sisters and assist them in their mission, which serves the dignity of human life from conception to natural death. Welcome, Sr. Grace Dominic, Sr. Anastacia Chiara Luce, Sr. Angelina Marie, Sr. Mercy Marie, and Sr. Monica Faustina!
(The Philadelphia Sisters of Life joined us for the WINE Conference on October 21 - photo below)
Action Alert: Support the Life-Affirming Provisions of the HHS
Every four years, the federal Department of Health and Human Services, (HHS), updates its strategic plan to define its mission, goals, and how it will measure its progress in addressing specific national problems over a four-year period. HHS recently released its Draft Strategic Plan FY 2018-2022 which includes several life-affirming provisions.
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has just submitted comments supporting and commending these provisions. Please follow their lead and submit comments too. Click here to submit your comments
Office for the New Evangelization
Upcoming Events
The Cross and the Light is Coming in Lent 2018!
We are thrilled to be welcoming for Lent 2018 a powerful event called The Cross and the Light (see video above). TCTL is an international, critically acclaimed musical and multi-sensory video experience of Jesus’ Death, Resurrection and the Coming of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost. Its purpose is to offer the audience an encounter with the living Christ by boldly proclaiming what He has done for us.
St. John Bosco Parish in Hatboro, PA, is hosting six TCTL shows for Lent 2018 on March 8, 9, and 10. Here's more information about The Cross and the Light in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia:
St. John Bosco Parish in Hatboro, PA, is hosting six TCTL shows for Lent 2018 on March 8, 9, and 10. Here's more information about The Cross and the Light in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia:
The Cross and the Light is a powerful moment of evangelization in which the saving message of Jesus Christ is proclaimed. The show is great for individuals, families (ages 5 and up), class trips, and parish groups! Pray about inviting a friend or family member who doesn't yet know Jesus but who might be interested in learning about Him. For more information, visit: crossandlight.org/stjohnbosco
Around the Archdiocese...
If you would like to submit an event for inclusion in the newsletter, please email all pertinent information to asanders@archphila.org for consideration. Please submit event information in the format used below.
Saturday, October 28, 2017, 8pm - 10pm
Event: Cathedral Concert Series: Cantus
Including music by Schubert, Strauss, Eric Whitacre, and many others, this music program by the men's vocal ensemble Cantus revels in the mystery,science, and poetry of what it means to truly ‘see.’
Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia
More info & Tickets: https://cathedralphilaconcerts.org/event/cantus/
Monday, October 30, 2017, 7pm - 8:30pm
Event: Fuel the Flame
Impact the future of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia by attending this engaging, informative, and vibrant evening! Mike Patin, national speaker, will present practical strategies for promoting vocations and helping to create a culture of vocations in our parishes, schools and communities.
Speaker: Mike Patin, national speaker with over 30 years of ministry experience
Hosted by: The Vocation Office for the Diocesan PriesthoodLocation: St. Charles Borromeo Seminary, Vianney Auditorium
More info: This event is free, but all are asked to register at http://heedthecall.org/event/fueltheflame.Friday, November 3, 2017 - 7:30pm
Event: Rod Dreher discusses “The Benedict Option”
Our culture is changing fast. How should Christians adapt? Bestselling author Rod Dreher proposes that parishes and schools need to become more intentional about catechesis and practicing our faith in an era when we can no longer assume a cultural background sympathetic to the faith.
Location: Martin Saints Classical High School, 120 Allison Road, Oreland PA (a shared location with Holy Martyrs parish)
Speaker: Rod Dreher, blogger and author of The Benedict Option: A Strategy for Christians in a Post-Christian Nation
To learn more: Visit the school’s event website, http://www.martinsaintsclassical.org/school/RodDreher-20171103.htmlNovember 3-12, 2017
Event: Vocation Awareness Week
Check out the Vocations Office events surrounding Vocation Awareness Week and get involved, but not just you—your parish, youth group, PREP program, and other parish organizations. See how you can help create a culture of vocations in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia!
Schedule of Events: View the website
Saturday, November 4, 2017, 4:30pm - 7pm
Event: Wine and Cheese Vocations BenefitJoin us for the second annual Heed Your Call Benefit. This event helps us build and strengthen relationships with our supporters and the faithful of the Archdiocese. No donation is too small and everything will be directly applied to the programs and events aimed at helping men become better disciples of Jesus Christ and to answer His call. There will be a reception, a brief program of entertainment, presentations and vocation stories by some of our newly ordained clergy.
Location: St. Charles Borromeo Seminary
More info: To request an invitation, please contact Sue Matour in the Vocation Office at 610-667-5778 or smatour@archphila.org or visit HeedTheCall.orgSaturday, November 4, 2017 8am - 2pm
Event: Men’s Spirituality Conference: Men of Iron – I Command You To Be Strong and Steadfast
Please join us for our 2nd annual Men’s spirituality Conference. Nationally known author and Counselor Dr. Peter Kleponis will be making morning and afternoon presentations.
Location: St. Anthony of Padua Parish, Ambler PA
More info: The cost is $20 per person. Please visit us at www.saintanthonyparish.org for complete details.
Sunday, November 5, 2017, 6pm
Event: "Trials of Faith," An Inspirational Survival Story
Brenden and Nicole were both involved in separate accidents which left them with severe traumatic brain injuries. They survived only because their families fought for their lives after doctors told them there was no hope. It is an amazing story of faith, hope and miracles. All will be truly inspired who hear it.
Speakers: Brendan and Nicole Flynn
Hosted by: The Respect Life Committee of St. Peter ParishLocation: St. Peter Church, 2835 Manor Rd, West Brandywine, PA 19320
More info: The talk is free; no reservations needed! For more information, please visit the website or email respectlife@saintpeterchurch.net
Tuesdays, November 7, 14, and 21, 2017
Event: Contemporary Questions about the Last Things
Many people think that death is the end of one’s existence. Yet, Christians believe in the resurrection of the body, Heaven, Hell and Purgatory. What difference does Christian hope about the last things make to our lives right now? Join internationally renowned theologian Sr. Sara Butler in a short course on these and related questions.
Location: Mother Boniface Spirituality Center, 3501 Solly Ave, Philadelphia
Presenter: Sr. Sara Butler, MSBT, STL, PhD
More info: Free will offering; Please email mbcretreat@msbt.org or call 267-350-1830 to register
November 8, 2017, 4:30 - 6:00pm
Event: Catholicism and the Morality of Markets: A Conversation with R.R. Reno and Father Robert Sirico
Join R.R. Reno and Fr. Sirico for a moderated conversation discussing the merits of the free markets from a Catholic perspective: does a free market system promote a healthy and virtuous society, or does it have a corrosive effect on the moral and social institutions that promote the common good?
Event: Catholicism and the Morality of Markets: A Conversation with R.R. Reno and Father Robert Sirico
Join R.R. Reno and Fr. Sirico for a moderated conversation discussing the merits of the free markets from a Catholic perspective: does a free market system promote a healthy and virtuous society, or does it have a corrosive effect on the moral and social institutions that promote the common good?
Location: Connelly Cinema, Villanova University
Speakers include: Dr. R.R. Reno, editor of First Things and Rev. Robert Sirico, president and co-founder of the Acton Institute
To learn more: For details and description, click here, or e-mail austin.detwiler@villanova.edu.
To learn more: For details and description, click here, or e-mail austin.detwiler@villanova.edu.
Thursday, November 9, 2017, 7pm
Event: Vianney - Renewing the Heart of the Church
Experience this inspiring production on the life of St. John Vianney, a remarkable priest and model of holiness who courageously battled the devil to save souls. The performance, which is filled with all the elements of professional theater, is suitable for ages 9 and up.
Performed by: Leonardo Defilippis
Location: St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, 15 East Pleasant Grove Road, West Chester, PA 19382
Cost: $8 single ticket / $10 two tickets / $15 families of 3 or more
More info: 610-399-6936 or www.stmax.org
Friday, November 10, 2017, 7pm - 10pm
Event: Young Adult Movie Night at the Seminary
Join us for a viewing of "I Confess," an Alfred Hitchcock thriller and a discussion to follow. It will be a fun way to grow in our understanding of this great Sacrament as we celebrate the fact that God still calls men to be the priests who hear our confessions. Soft drinks and snacks will be provided!
Location: St. Charles Borromeo Seminary, 100 E Wynnewood Rd, Wynnewood, PA
More info: Young Adult Movie Night at the SeminaryNovember 10 - 11 2017
Event: 25 Hour Marriage Retreat
Event: 25 Hour Marriage Retreat
A wonderful opportunity for married couples to rekindle, reconnect and recommit to one another in Christ! The setting for the retreat is spectacular. The retreat includes, quiet time for adoration, receiving the sacraments and celebrating the gift you are to each other!
Speakers: Fr. Scott Reilly, LC and Catholic Lay Couples
Location: Icona Beach Resort, Wildwood, NJ
Cost: $450 per couple
More info: Events@RCPhilly.com
More info: Events@RCPhilly.com
Registration: https://secure.acceptiva.com/?cst=9689ad
November 10 - 12, 2017
Event: Unbound Leadership Conference: The Joy of the Harvest
The Unbound Leadership Conference is for anyone who wants to grow in using the Unbound model to minister to others. Whether you lead a team or feel called to be an intercessor, whether you have been using the unbound model for 10 years or a few months this conference is for you. Come be equipped, renewed, and refreshed!
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Philadelphia Airport, 4509 Island Road, Philadelphia
More info & registration: View the website
Saturday, November 11, 2017, 9am - 12pm
Event: Come Learn About Walking With Purpose!
Do you have a heart for other women and a desire to connect them in the parish...to meet women where they are and draw them closer to Christ? Come attend an information session about Walking with Purpose, a women’s Catholic Bible study now offered at 19 parishes in the Philadelphia Archdiocese. Continental breakfast will be provided. There is no cost to attend.Location: St. Joseph Church in Downingtown, PA
More info: To register, contact Laura White at LauraWhiteWWP@gmail.com
Saturday, November 11, 2017
Event: Dominican Sisters of Hawthorne Vocation Discernment Day
“...as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me” Mt. 25:40
We invite young women who are discerning a religious vocation to join us for a weekend of sharing in the life of prayer & apostolate of the Hawthorne Dominicans
More info: Reservations are required. For information or reservations please contact Sister Alma Marie, 845-745-1319, vocationdirector@hawthorne-dominicans.org
November 11, 2017 - 8:00pm
Event: Community Concert at the Basilica, PhilHarmonia
PhilHarmonia is a 25-voice community choir that sings classical and contemporary choral music. Founded in 2013, and now in its fifth season, PhilHarmonia continues to delight audiences with its commitment to musical excellence, and its diverse range of choral programs.
Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, 1723 Race St. Philadelphia, PA 19103.
PhilHarmonia is a 25-voice community choir that sings classical and contemporary choral music. Founded in 2013, and now in its fifth season, PhilHarmonia continues to delight audiences with its commitment to musical excellence, and its diverse range of choral programs.
Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, 1723 Race St. Philadelphia, PA 19103.
To learn more: visit www.philharmoniasings.com; Free will offering
Monday, November 13, 2017, 7pm
Event: Seminary Lecture Series - Philosophy Lecture
Event: Seminary Lecture Series - Philosophy Lecture
Speaker: Rev. Nicanor Austriaco, O.P., Professor of Biology, Providence College
Topic: "Defending Adam After Darwin: The Origin of Sapiens as a Natural Kind" (Evolution and Creation)
Abstract by Rev. Austriaco: "For many contemporary Christian theologians, evolutionary biology rules out any account of an Adam and Eve that would explain the origin of our species. In response, I propose that there are sound and robust reasons to think that human beings share an intrinsic essence that puts them into a natural kind. I also propose that our natural kind can be defined by our developmental capacity for language, which I suggest is necessarily linked to the capacity for abstract thought. Thus, it is still reasonable to trace the origins of our natural kind to an original individual."
More info: Event is free and open to the public; Additional details at scs.edu/lectures
Topic: "Defending Adam After Darwin: The Origin of Sapiens as a Natural Kind" (Evolution and Creation)
Abstract by Rev. Austriaco: "For many contemporary Christian theologians, evolutionary biology rules out any account of an Adam and Eve that would explain the origin of our species. In response, I propose that there are sound and robust reasons to think that human beings share an intrinsic essence that puts them into a natural kind. I also propose that our natural kind can be defined by our developmental capacity for language, which I suggest is necessarily linked to the capacity for abstract thought. Thus, it is still reasonable to trace the origins of our natural kind to an original individual."
More info: Event is free and open to the public; Additional details at scs.edu/lectures
November 13-17, 2017
Event: Ad Lumina Christi Healing Retreat
This mid-week retreat will be led by renowned evangelist, preacher and retreat director Kathleen McCarthy. This retreat is designed to uplift men and women looking for physical, spiritual and/or emotional healing.
Location: Malvern Retreat House
More info: To register, please call 610-644-0400 or visit www.malvernretreat.com.
November 13 – 21, 22
Event: 89th Annual Miraculous Medal Solemn Novena and Feast Day Mass
There will be a nine-day Solemn Novena, which begins Monday, November 13th, with a sermon each day reflecting on a unique virtue – the fruits of the Vincentian charism.
Speaker: Fr. Thomas Sendlein, CM
Topic: "400 Years of Vincentian Charism – Dynamic Virtues for Today."
Mass celebrant: Bishop Edward M. Deliman, Auxiliary of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia
Location: Miraculous Medal Shrine, 500 E. Chelten Ave. Philadelphia, PA
More info: Visit the website https://cammonline.org/prayer-ministry/novena2017/
November 17-19, 2017
Event: Together as One: Theology of the Body & Married Life
Participants of this 3-day seminar retreat will immerse their marriage in the riches of St. John Paul II’s vision of marital love. Couples will gain a deeper understanding of the Sacrament of Matrimony and be provided direct applications of the teaching to the lived experience of modern family life. Join other married and engaged couples for a unique time of discussion, prayer, group reflection, and daily celebration of the Sacraments of Eucharist and Confession.
Location: St. Mary of Providence Retreat Center, Elverson, PA
Presenters: Dr. Gregory Bottaro, PsyD and Dr. Mario Sacasa, PhD, LMFT.
More info: Visit the website: http://tobinstitute.org/marriage-retreat/ or call 215-302-8200 ext. 104
November 17-19, 2017
Event: St.Teresa of Calcutta Women’s Retreat
All women are welcome to attend! This retreat will be directed by Fr. Tom Sullivan, a former close associate of St. Teresa of Calcutta. A first class relic of St. Teresa of Calcutta, along with the presence of some of St. Teresa’s Sisters of Charity, will be incorporated into this powerful weekend at Malvern Retreat House. The theme for the weekend will focus on the mission of St. Teresa of Calcutta and the message of Our Lady of Fatima.
Location: Malvern Retreat HouseMore info: To register, please visit www.malvernretreat.com or call 610-644-0400.
Saturday, November 18, 2017 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Event: "After Divorce" - Hope and Healing for the Catholic Family
Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Overbrook, Philadelphia is hosting a one-day healing retreat for divorced Catholics with Catholic author and speaker Rose Sweet. Event sponsored by the new "St. Raymond Nonnatus Foundation" which initially ministers to families by affected by divorce.
Location: Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, 63rd and Lancaster Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19151
Speakers include: Rose Sweet, Catholic author and speaker
More info: $25 includes lunch. To sign up, please visit: www.eventbrite.com/e/after-divorce-hope-healing-for-the-catholic-family-registration-37740811784
Sunday, November 19, 2017, 4:30pm
Event: Annual Stand Up For Life Dinner
We hope you can join us for a wonderful night to celebrate the gift of life! We encourage you to order your tickets as soon as possible. Cocktails begin at 4:30pm, and the dinner begins at 5:30pm. This event is hosted by the Pro-Life Union of Greater Philadelphia.
Keynote speaker: Melissa Ohden
Location: Sheraton Hotel, Center City, PhiladelphiaCost: Student tickets $50, individual tickets $75, tables of ten (adults) $700
More info: Please register online at www.prolifeunion.org/dinner. Reservations may also be mailed to Pro-Life Union of Greater Philadelphia, 88 Pennsylvania Avenue, Oreland, PA 19075. For further event details, please call 215-885-8150.November 19, 2017 - 3-5pm
Event: Westminster Williamson Voices Concert (Cathedral Concert Series)
Led by James Jordan, the Grammy-nominated ensemble returns to the Cathedral Basilica with a diverse and inspiring program showcasing the choir’s distinctive artistry and rich palette of choral colors in music by a wide range of composers exploring spirituality.
Location: The Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, 1723 Race St. Philadelphia, PA 19103.
To purchase tickets: visit https://cathedralphilaconcerts.org/event/westminster-williamson-voices-2/
Location: The Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, 1723 Race St. Philadelphia, PA 19103.
To purchase tickets: visit https://cathedralphilaconcerts.org/event/westminster-williamson-voices-2/
Sunday, Nov 19, 2017, 7pm - 8:30pm
Event: Faith-based Mom's Group at St. Joseph Parish in Aston (Delaware County)This moms' group will offer group discussion, sharing, and prayer that will link our everyday challenges and struggles with the solutions given to us through teachings of Christ in the Catholic Church. We welcome moms of all ages. Whether you’re a married, single or widowed mom, we’d love to have you with us.
Location: St. Joseph’s Church; 3255 Concord Road; Aston, PA
(Park in rear of church and enter doors at the rear ground floor of the church.
As you enter, we will be in the Neumann Room).
Frequency: Once/month on Sunday evenings (10/22, 11/19, 12/10, and in 2018 meetings will be the 1st Sunday of the month)
More info: Contact facilitator, Dana Westby, at danawestby@hotmail.com or 215-275-0782
Saturday, December 9, 2017, 9am-2:30pm
Event: ChristLife Advent Day of Reflection
For anyone who has participated in the ChristLife process - Discovering Christ, Following Christ, Sharing Christ - this day of reflection focuses on how the ChristLife process continues to call us to discipleship
Speaker: Fr. David Driesch, O.Praem.
Location: Daylesford Abbey, Paoli, PA
More info: $25 pp; Schedule and registration flyer
December 10, 2017 - 3-5pm
Event: Christmas at the Cathedral
Our annual Christmas celebration is back and better than ever. Cathedral Music Director Charlene Angelini leads an uplifting program of beautiful carols and the traditional music of Christmas, performed by the combined forces of the Cathedral Choir and the choirs of the Philadelphia Archdiocese. Resounding brass add to the spectacle as voices rise in celebration of the festive season!
Location: The Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, 1723 Race St. Philadelphia, PA 19103.
To purchase tickets: visit https://cathedralphilaconcerts.org/event/christmas-at-the-cathedral/
December 15-17, 2017
Event: Flame of Love Retreat
Gifted retreat director, Fr. James Blount, will lead this dynamic Advent retreat for men and women. The retreat will focus on the theme: Why Shop Until You Drop When You Can Purchase the Pearl of Great Price?
Location: Malvern Retreat House
More info: To register, please visit www.malvernretreat.com or call 610-644.0400.January 2-6, 2018
Event: FOCUS SLS2018 Leadership Summit
Go deeper into your relationship with Christ. Follow Him into mission. At SLS, you’ll be transformed alongside fellow leaders of the Church and receive the tools, training, and confidence you need to share Christ with others.
Speakers: Bishop Barron, Lisa Brenninkmeyer, Jason Evert, Curtis Martin, Fr. Mike Schmitz and more
Location: McCormick Place, Chicago, IL
More info: Group rates available; Babysitting available;
Special track for Parish Leaders: Lifelong Mission Track
Website: www.sls18.com
January 22-26, 2018
Event: The Church is a Field Hospital: Unbound Retreat for Catholic Priests
Learn a simple, personal way to pray with your parishioners to be free of their burdens. Receive personal ministry. Connect with other priests who use or want to use Unbound in pastoral care. If you are unsure whether you should attend this retreat, a prayerful reading of "Unbound: A Practical Guide to Deliverance" by Neal Lozano will help you know if this is the right time for you.
Location: Sacred Heart Retreat House, 920 E. Alhambra Road, Alhambra, CA 91801
Speakers: The Most Reverend David G. O'Connell, Fr. Ethan Southard, Neal Lozano, and Matt Lozano
More info: Please contact Heart of the Father Ministries at info@heartofthefather.com or 610-952-3019 ext. 1
Thursdays mornings (year-round)
Meeting group: Catholic Schoolhouse Chapter
Homeschool Group using The Catholic Schoolhouse program that meets Thursday mornings
Location: The Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia.
Please contact directors Gina 215-920-2640 or Eileen EileenDAngelo@verizon.net for more information and to register; must register to attend.
Please contact directors Gina 215-920-2640 or Eileen EileenDAngelo@verizon.net for more information and to register; must register to attend.
Catholic Family Fun Club
As always, families can stay tuned to the Catholic Family Fun Club Meetup Group for events and activities for Catholic families in our area!
LOOKING AHEAD...
January 29, 2018, 7pm - Cardinal Foley Lecture by Bishop Robert Barron, Wynnewood
February 1-11, 2018 - Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to the Holy LandMarch 3, 2018 - Man Up Philly: Men's Conference, Philadelphia
March 8, 9, & 10, 2018 - The Cross and the Light Passion Play, Hatboro
March 17, 2018 - Cultural Heritage Mass, Philadelphia
March 24, 2018 -Mass for Persons with Disabilities and Their Caregivers, Philadelphia
April 4-6, 2018 - Humanae Vitae Symposium, Washington, DC
Save the Date! July 27-29, 2018 - Casting Nets Evangelization Institute (English/Español), Malvern Retreat House, Malvern