National Archives recalls 1918 flu pandemic

With concerns of a new flu pandemic, the National Archifes takesw a look back at an old one

Washington, DC. . . The following is a document alert -- part of a program sponsored by the National Archives to notify the media of documents and images in the National Archives holdings that are relevant to national holidays, anniversaries or current events. This program, which is based on original records from the National Archives, its 12 Presidential libraries and 13 regional archives, is designed to offer the media an historical perspective on events that occur periodically and to highlight historical antecedents to current political or diplomatic initiatives.

This alert is based on a National Archives online exhibit titled "Deadly Virus, the Influenza Epidemic of 1918," at http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/influenza-epidemic/records-list.html.
This site offers high-res downloads of documents and images from that time.

The influenza epidemic of 1918 killed more people than died in World War I.

Hard as it is to believe, the answer is true.

World War I claimed an estimated 16 million lives. The influenza epidemic that swept the world in 1918 killed an estimated 50 million people. One fifth of the world's population was attacked by this deadly virus. Within months, it had killed more people than any other illness in recorded history.

The plague emerged in two phases. In late spring of 1918, the first phase, known as the "three-day fever," appeared without warning. Few deaths were reported. Victims recovered after a few days. When the disease resurfaced that fall, it was far more severe. Scientists, doctors, and health officials could not identify this disease which was striking so fast and so viciously, eluding treatment and defying control. Some victims died within hours of their first symptoms.
Others succumbed after a few days; their lungs filled with fluid and they suffocated to death.

The plague did not discriminate. It was rampant in urban and rural areas, from the densely populated East coast to the remotest parts of Alaska. Young adults, usually unaffected by these types of infectious diseases, were among the hardest hit groups along with the elderly and young children. The flu afflicted over 25 percent of the U.S. population. In one year, the average life expectancy in the United States dropped by 12 years.

It is an oddity of history that the influenza epidemic of 1918 has been overlooked in the teaching of American history. Documentation of the disease is ample, as shown in the records selected from the holdings of the National Archives regional archives.

Sunday is World Day of Prayer for Vocations

Sunday, May 3, is World Day of Prayer for Vocations. This year's theme is "I give my life." Resources to celebrate this day will be mailed out mid-April to all priests, deacons, school principals, Directors of Religious Education, Newman Campus Ministers, vocation ministers, and congregational leaders. Please take a few moments to review these resources.

Ann Yu wins music honors, to perform Sunday

Ann Yu, daughter of St. Paul choir director Jin Yu, competed in Akron Youth Symphony Orchestra Concerto Competition in January and won the honor. This coming Sunday afternoon at 3 in E. J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall, she will perform Bruch Violin Concerto with the orchestra under direction of maestro Christopher Lees. The concert is free and open to the public.

And last Sunday, she competed in Buckeye music competition in Elementary Division at Kent State University. She won first places both in Piano Compeition and Violin Competition. She is also invited to perform in Columbus for Federation Music Clubs State Convention in June.

Those are the most recently accomplished news of Ann.

Fr. Anthony Zepp dies, first assignment at St. Vincent

Blog Note: Fr. Zepp’s first assignment was as parochial vicar of St. Vincent from June 1956 to June 1961

Reverend Anthony W. Zepp, age 78, was Pastor Emeritus of SS. Peter and Paul Church in Garfield Heights, Ohio. Father Zepp was ordained a Catholic Priest on May 19, 1956 in the Diocese of Cleveland. He was the beloved son of the late Anthony and Dorothy (nee Zienkowski); loving brother of Dorothy Ann Reitz (Norm, deceased), Lois Bogucki (Ron), Robert (Gloria), Rose Marie Borcuch (Robert), Patricia Primer (Gerald), and Edward (Margaret); devoted uncle, great-uncle, and cousin of many.

Family suggests contributions to the Jennings Center for Older Adults, 10204 Granger Road, Garfield Hts., OH 44125. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at SS. Peter and Paul Church, 4750 Turney Road, Garfield Heights, on Friday, May 1, 2009 at 11 a.m., The Most Rev. Anthony M. Pilla, Bishop Emeritus, Celebrant. Interment at Calvary Cemetery. Vespers will be held at the church Thursday, April 30, 2009 at 3 p.m., The Most Rev. Richard G. Lennon, Bishop of Cleveland, presiding. Fr. Zepp will lie in state at the church THURSDAY, 3 TO 8 P.M.
Arrangements by GOLUBSKI DELIBERATO FUNERAL HOME, 216-883-3900. Online condolences may be submitted at GDFH.net
[Beacon Journal, Akron, OH, Wednesday, April 29, 2009, page B7, col. 6]

Lectors, Extraordinary Ministers for May

Lectors for May

Saturday 4:30 p.m.Patty Rinella
Sunday 9:00 a.m. Bernie Factor
Sunday 11:00 a..m. Youth Lector

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion for May

Saturday 4:30 p.m.	Sunday 9:00 a.m.	Sunday 11:00 a.m.
Carol Coughlin	Gerard Colant	Dorothy Christner
Joyce Gannon	Jo Colant	Diane Clute
John Mastrojohn	Patty Di Donato	Kathleen Deger
Patricia Hogue	Rudy Di Donato	Georeg Roberts
Hank Richard	Tom Liggett	Betsy Roberts
Judy Richard	Joanne Marcius	Aaron Ruegg
Kenneth Roush	Kathy Seminaroti	Jason Ruegg
Penny Roush	Dottie Thoerig	Maggie Walker

Pope Benedict's prayer intentions for May

General: That the laity and the Christian communities may be responsible promoters of priestly and religious vocations.

Mission: That the recently founded Catholic Churches, grateful to the Lord for the gift of faith, may be ready to share in the universal mission of the Church, offering their availability to preach the Gospel throughout the world.

Survey: Most Catholics left church when young

WASHINGTON D.C.,(CNA).- A new survey provides detailed information about the one in ten American adults who are former Catholics, showing that most left the faith before the age of 24. Those who became Protestant most often said their spiritual needs were not being met, while those who became unaffiliated most often said they just gradually drifted away.

The Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life, which conducted the survey, released the results on Monday in a report titled “Faith in Flux: Religious Conversion Statistics and Changes in Religious Affiliation in the U.S.” The survey, a follow-up to the U.S. Religious Landscape Survey published in February 2008, polled all Americans who had left their childhood religion. The survey used 973 follow-up interviews and claims a margin of error among the entire U.S. population of plus or minus five percentage points.

The survey also distinguished between those Catholics who were now Protestant and those who were now unaffiliated. It claims a margin of error of plus or minus 6.5 percentage points for the first group and plus or minus 7 percentage points for the latter group.

Catholicism tends to retain childhood members at a rate of 68 percent, which the Pew Forum says is “far greater” than the retention rate of the unaffiliated and is comparable with or better than the retention rates of other religious groups. Former Catholics compose 10.1 percent of the overall U.S. population, while converts to Catholicism make up 2.6 percent.

Of all those raised Catholic, 15 percent have become Protestant, with nine percent now belonging to evangelical denominations and five percent belonging to mainline Protestant denominations. About 14 percent of those raised Catholic are now unaffiliated.

Click on the headline to read the full story.

News from St. Paul Booster Club

News from Sunday night’s meeting of St. Paul Booster Club

CYO Sports Signups
The 2009-2010 Sports sign ups will be Friday, May 15, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. There will be a signup for all teams for anyone with a child in the parish interested in CYO sports.

T-Ball	Baseball	Softball	Soccer	Flag Football	Tackle Football
Track	Basketball	Chess	Volleyball	Cross Country

"300 Club Appreciation Social
The Booster Club will have a picnic for all the "300" club members.on
Sunday June 7, from 1 to 4:p.m. The June drawings will take place at the picnic, including the special $500 and $250 drawings. Meat and beverage to be provided by the Booster Club, you bring a side dish. There will be family volleyball and basketball games in the gymnasiums.

Change in the summer meeting schedule:
* May 31, 2009
* June 7, 2009( no meeting on June 28th)
* July 26, 2009
* August 30, 2009

April "300" club drawing winners:
#326 Christy Breiding
#124 Jeff Haag
#116 Shawn & Lorie Needham
#249 Joe & Cherie Coughlin

St. Paul named Scouting sponsor of year

On April 19, St Paul Parish was named the Sponsoring Organization of the year by the Great Trail Ccouncil, Tri Fires District for 2008. This award is given to an organization that supports the Scouting movement at the highest levels. There were many other organizations that were considered for this awarded this year. Last year St Paul's has seen the Cub Scout Pack grow to over 50 first through fifth graders. The Boy Scout troop 81 was restarted with four new scouts and six adult leaders. The Rev. Fr. Ralph W. Thomas, pastor of St. Paul, has been very visible to the kids and enjoys spending time at some of the meetings. St Paul's scouts have a large support base from many parishioners. This is a great award to recognize the devotion that St Paul's has to the youth of the parish. Scout leaders also are happy to report that a 100 per cent advancement with all the members of the pack, and the new Boy Scouts have all received their first rank of Tenderfoot.
[Information supplied by Bill Canan of Cub Scout Pack 3081]

King James Classic brings fun to Jenkins Gym

Sorekeeprs during the West Virginia Beckley Wizards game against Pittsburgh Condors (from left at table) are Tony Bachmann site director, Taylor Gray and Alexa Bachmann

The St. Paul gymnasium was one of many sites used to house the King James Classic this weekend. The King James Classic is an amateur basketball tournament for youth teams.

Dru Joyce II expected more than 600 teams to participate from the registrations he had received. The King James Classic was hosted by the University of Akron, Kent State and a multitude of area elementary, middle and high schools.

St. Paul was home to the tournament on Friday evening and all day Saturday. Booster Club President, Tony Bachmann, was pleased with the organization of the event and the youth teams and their families that participated. Weekend passes were available for $17 for adults and $15 for seniors and students. Daily passes were available for $10 and $8.

The King James Classic brings an estimated $2.5 million to the Akron area. The event finshed up at Rhodes Arena on the University of Akron campus on Sunday.

Dedicated fans at right await the outcome of a close, nail-biter game.

[Photos and information from Boosters Club secretary Jo Shoup]

It's Happening at St. Paul

Sunday, April 26
Booster Club will meet at 7 p.m. in Boeke Hall
PSR classes from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Cnter
Coffee and Donuts after Masses in the Parish Activity Center.

Monday, April 27
SOLACE support group meetsat 7 p.m. in the Parish Activity Center.
Cub Scout Pack 3081 will meet at 6 p.m. in Boeke Hall
Men's Fellowship will meet at 7 p.m. in Room 111 for prayer and Bible study. The Bible study passage will be Galatians 2:L 1-21 Paul and the other apostles.

Tuesday, April 28
Eucharistic Adoration 7:30 a.m. to noon only
Senior Prayer Hour 11 a..m. in the church (Note time change)
Girl Scout Troop 1080 will meet at 2:45 p.m. Tuesday, April 28, in the school cafeteria
Adult Choir practice at 7 p.m. in music room

Wednesday, April 29
First Eucharist practice at 7 p.m. in the church. This meeting is mandatory for parents and candidates.
Scripture study will be at 9 a.m. in Room 111
Bible study will be at 7 p.m. in the rectory
Girl Scout Troop 360 will meet at 2:45 p.m. in the school cafeteria.
Chess Club will meet at 4 p.m. in Room 111.

Friday, May 1
Student Mass at 8:30 a.m.

Saturday, MAY 2
First Communion at 10 a.m. in St. Paul Church. Students are to arrive between 8:30 and 9 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center for individual pictures and a group photo in the church. The PTO will be host for a reception in Boeke Hall following the Mass.
May Crowning at 4:30 p.m. Mass.

Sunday, May 3
May Crowning at 9 a.m. Mass.
First Communion recipients are expected to attend the May crowning at the 11 a.m. Mass on Sunday, May 3, wearing their Communion outfits.
PSR classes from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center. Last class of year
Coffee and Donuts after Masses in the Parish Activity Center.

See Datebook for other area events

News from this weekend's bulletin

Workshop scheduled May 8 for EMs, lectors and ushers
There will be an important Liturgy Workshop for all Extraordinary Ministers of Communion, Lectors and Ushers on Friday, May 8, from 7 to 9:30 p.m. in the Church. The purpose of the workshop is to renew enthusiasm and commitment for your chosen ministry and dedication to this work of the Lord. Please plan to attend. The presenter for the workshop will be Sister Margaret Mach SC, Director of the Evangelization Office for the Diocese of Cleveland. If you have any questions, please contact the rectory at 330-724-1263.

Mother / Daughter / Granddaughter Breakfast is May 17
The Ladies Guild’s annual Mother / Daughter Breakfast is May 17, in Boeke Hall following the 9 a.m. Mass. The breakfast is open to all ladies of the parish and daughters/granddaughters over the age of 6years, however it is not necessary to bring a daughter or granddaughter in order to attend. PLEASE make reservations by calling Pat Delagrange, at 330-724-0466, in order for us to know how many guests to prepare for. Deadline for reservations is Wednesday, May 13. This year a “free-will offering” will be accepted in lieu of a set charge. Questions, call Pat Rinella at 330-773-4626.

May Crowning of the Blessed Virgin Mary set for all Masses next weekend
Please join us to celebrate devotion to Mary, the Mother of our risen Savior, he weekend of May 2-3. There will be a f May crowning ceremony at all the Masses. A procession for the 27 youngsters is scheduled at the 11 a.m. Mass on Sunday. The St. Paul Ladies Guild will have a May Crowning on Thursday, May 14, at 6:30 p.m. in the church, followed by a short meeting and refreshments in the Parish Activity Center/.

St. Paul Flower Sale and Book/& Music Sale is May 9-10
Please remember to save any extra plants, flowers and cuttings for the Plant and Flower Sale the weekend of May 9-10 in the South Parking Lot from 9 .a. to 1 p.m. This year there will be a large selection of geraniums and impatiens.. If you have
any extra flower pots either plastic or clay that you no longer need or want we will be happy to take them.Also, save up any used books, tapes, CD’s, and DVD’s for our Used Book and Music Sale the weekend of June 27-28 in the Parish Activity Center.

Grismer's religous store is 75 years old

A page 1 story in the Akron Beacon Jourrnal today features Grismer's Christian Gifts & Church Supply — believed to be downtown Akron's oldest retail store — turns 75 this year. It's been in its current location on High Street since the mid-1940s, a steady landmark in an ever-changing landscape.

The store is in the midst of its busy season, with young Catholics throughout Summit County taking the holy sacrament of First Communion.

This photo by Beacon Journal photographer Phil Masturzo shows June Grismer in the store with a large crucifix on the wall in the foreground.

Click on the headline to read the full story.

Mass Intentions April 26 - May 3

SATURDAY, April 25 Mark, evangelist
4:30pm Sunday Vigil
Living & Deceased Parishioners of St. Paul

SUNDAY, April 26 Third Sunday of Easter
9:00am Richard & Betty Capron +
11:00am For an end to all war

MONDAY, April 27 Easter Weekday
7:00am For the ill and homebound
8:30am Mary Fanelly +

TUESDAY, April 28 Peter Chanel, priest, martyr;
Louis Mary de Montfort, priest
7:00am For all men and women in the Military
8:30am Morning Prayer and Communion

WEDNESDAY, April 29 Catherine of Siena, virgin & doctor
7:00am For an end to abortion
8:30am Robert B. Williams, Sr. +

THURSDAY, April 30 Pius V, pope
7:00am For peace in the world
8:30am Morning Prayer and Communion

FRIDAY, May 1, Joseph the Worker
7:00am Morning Prayer and Communion
8:30am Martha Casenhiser Fitzgerald +

SATURDAY, May 2 Athanasius, bishop & doctor
10:00am First Eucharist Mass
4:30pm Josephine Dettorre +

SUNDAY, May 3 Fourth Sunday of Easter
9:00am Joseph Pillitiere + (anniv.)
11:00am Living & Deceased Parishioners of St. Paul

Math program doing well, principal reports

St. Paul School principal Mrs. Rosemary Capototso told the PTO at Thursday night’s meeting in Boeke Hall that the New Math program is doing well according to Iowa Basic test scores.

She announced that Operation Keepsake will begin Monday for the sixth, seventh and eight graders. Kindergarten screening is May 14 and interim reports will be sent home May 6.

There will be early dismissal on May 12 and Family Night at CiCi's from 2 to 8 p.m.

The PTO is considering a new proposal to treat teachers to breakfast the last day of school.

The PTO is still taking nominations for treasurer

The treasurers report from Lori Wammes showing a balance $24,217.43 was approved.

The Market Day $10.00 gift certificate won by Cheryl Ellis

Mass for Paul Biller is Saturday

Paul "Buddy" Biller, 77, of Akron, passed away on April 22, 2009, at the Hospice of Summa.

Paul was born in Akron, Ohio on April 14, 1932, graduated from Hower H.S. and served in the U.S. Marines. He was a foreman at Akron Standard Mold, retiring after 35 years, was a member of the Akron FOP Lodge #7 and St. Paul's Catholic Church. He was a very charitable person who will always be remembered as a loving and caring man. He loved fishing, gardening, hiking and trailer activities at Pymatuning Lake.

Preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Amelia and brother, John, he is survived by his loving sisters, Frances Biller of Akron, Margaret (Bill) Sinesky of N. Carolina and Betty Hoefel of Michigan; and sister-in-law, Bonnie Biller of Akron.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 25, 2009 at St. Paul's Catholic Church, 1580 Brown Street, Akron, Ohio 44301, with Father Ralph Thomas officiating. Calling hours will be TODAY from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Schermesser Funeral Home, 600 E. Turkeyfoot Lake Road (Route 619 in Green). Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery. (SCHERMESSER-GREEN, 330-899-9107)

Bishop Lennon names new pastor at Cathedral

The Most Reverend Richard G. Lennon, Bishop, Diocese of Cleveland, has announced the following direct appointments which will become effective 15 June 2009.

Bishop Lennon will appoint Fr. Edward Estok, Pastor of Saint Albert the Great, North Royalton, effective 15 June 2009. This appointment will conclude his duties as Rector of The Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist and his appointment as Administrative Assistant to the Bishop of the Diocese of Cleveland, effective 15 June 2009.

Bishop Lennon will appoint Fr. Theodore Marszal, Pastor of the Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist an Administrative Assistant to the Bishop of the Diocese of Cleveland, effective 15 June 2009. This appointment will conclude his duties as Pastor of Ss. Peter and Paul Parish, Garfield Heights, effective 15 June 2009. Publication of the open pastorate of Ss. Peter and Paul Parish will be forthcoming.

Altar servers for May

Saturday, May 2
4:30 Matt Kannel and Sam Smith

Sunday, May 3,
9:00 Josh Garey and Ryan Testa
11:00 Sierra Robinson an Lindsey Maple

Saturday, May 9,
4:30 Trevor Ellis and Adam Bugajski

Sunday, May 10
9:00 Aaron Abernathy and Adam Gray
11:00 Jacqueline Wammes and Lindsey Maple

Saturday, May 16
4:30 Alyse Bachmann and Ally Bachmann

Sunday, May 17
9:00 Noelle Colant and Anna Liggett
11:00 Emily Roberts and Jesse Bobbitt

Saturday, May 23
4:30 Matt Kannel and Ally Bachmann

Sunday, May 24
9:00 Josh Garey and Ryan Testa
11:00 Scott Johnson and Paige Harbarger

Saturday, May 30
4:30 Trevor Ellis and Sam Smith

Sunday, May 31
9:00 Michael Casalinuovo and Christopher Caslinuovo
11:00 Emily Roberts and Jesse Bobbitt

If you are unable to serve at your scheduled Mass, please arrange for a substitute. Use your phone list to contact another server to ask them substitute for you.

Bishop to celebrate Mass at Holy Cross Cemetery

The Most Reverend Richard G. Lennon, Bishop of Cleveland, will celebrate the Memorial Day Mass at Holy Cross Cemetery at 10 .a.m. on Monday, May 25. Arrangements will be under the direction of Rev Joseph H. Kraker, pastor of St. Vincent Parish.

Carlson named St. Louis Bishop

After a nearly 10-month wait, Pope Benedict XVI has appointed Bishop Robert James Carlson of the Diocese of Saginaw, Mich., to lead the Archdiocese of St. Louis.

Archbishop-elect Carlson, 64, will become St. Louis’ 10th bishop and ninth archbishop. The Holy See’s press office made the announcement Tuesday.

He succeeds Archbishop Raymond L. Burke, who was named prefect of the Apostolic Signatura in June 2008.

Born in Minneapolis, on June 30, 1944, Archbishop-elect Carlson is the oldest of five, and the only son, of Robert Sr. and Jeanne Carlson. He was ordained to the priesthood in 1970 for the Diocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. He was ordained an auxiliary bishop for his home diocese in 1984 and then went on to serve as bishop of Sioux Falls, S.D., from 1994-2005. He was installed as head of the Saginaw Diocese in 2005.

Home Mission collections helps the poor

There are many places in the United States and in its overseas dependencies where the Church is poor, communities are scattered, and priests are few. Money given to the Catholic Home Missions Appeal helps Catholic communities across America survive and thrive, by underwriting evangelization, religious education, education for future priests, training for lay ministers, and poor parishes that would have to close their doors without outside help. The Catholic Home Missions Appeal helps strengthen the Catholic Church at home. More than ninety-two cents of every dollar contributed goes directly to the missions. The Catholic Home Mission Appeal Collection is to be taken up this weekend

27 to receive First Communion May 2

First Communion for 27 youngsters will be Saturday, May 2, at 10 a.m. in St. Paul Church.

Students are to arrive between 8:30 and 9 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center for individual pictures and a group photo in the church. The PTO will be host for a reception in Boeke Hall following the Mass.

First Communion recipients are expected to attend the May crowning at the 11 a.m. Mass on Sunday, May 3, wearing their Communion outfits.

There will be a mandatory practice for parents and students in the church at 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 29.

Dress for Communion suggested by the Parish School of Religion is pants, shirt and tie for boys and a Communion dress or any color Easter outfit for girls. Flower headbands or veils may be worn but are not mandatory. Please make sure veil or headband is secure. The PSR suggests leaving purses, gloves, prayer books and rosaries at home as students tend to be distracted by them during the ceremony. The pastor will bless prayer books and rosaries on Sunday.

For questions call the PSR office at 330-724-9311

Scheduled to receive First Eucharist are:

Holly Adam	Joseph Fox	Morgan Munro
Cameron Balca	Lily Gray	Concetta Paull
Baylee Brown	Matthew Gruic	Chante Reddest
Cayla Burkhart	Paul Hirsch Jr.	Cory Richmond
Anna Dobbins	Presley Linn	John Slota
Nathan Dort	Wyatt Markovich	Aisha Smith
Graham Evans	Michael Maxwell	Morgan Troup
LeAnna Faulknier	Emily Merle	Natalie Wammes
Franklin Fausnight	Ryan Morrison	Brooke Wightman

Les Rietz greets old friends at birthday party

Catching up after a busy Easter season, we now have photos from the big birthday party for Les Rietz, longtime St. Paul parishioner, who celebrated his 90h birthday on Easter Sunday.

Les and his wife, June, all five of his children and a few grandchildren sat in the first two rows at the 11 a.m. Mass and his five siblings brought up the gifts. At the very end end of the Mass, the pastor, the Rev. Ralph Thomas invited everyone to the reception for Les in the Parish Actvitiy Center.

The photo here shows June and Les with George Fulton an old friend from Canton. Click on the headline to see other photos of the party.

Les was greeted by friends and an 11-minue slide show of photos showed Riedtz’s ancestors, the parents and himself and his family at every state in his life.There was a large cake and everyhone sang "Happy Birthday" and "For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow.

:Les sat in the middle of the room receiving vistors until 2 p.m.

Click on the headline to go to a page of photo

Pope to name five new saints

VATICAN CITY (CNA).- This coming Sunday, Pope Benedict XVI will celebrate Mass in St. Peter's Square and give the Church five new saints.

At the 10 a.m. Mass, four Italians and one Portuguese religious brother will be canonized by the Holy Father.

The Italians are: Arcangelo Tadini (1846-1912), Italian diocesan priest and founder of the Congregation of Worker Sisters of the Holy House of Nazareth; Bernardo Tolomei (1272-1348), Italian founder of the Olivetan Benedictine Congregation; Gertrude Comensoli (1847-1903), Italian virgin and foundress of the Institute of Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament; and Caterina Volpicelli (1839-1894), Italian virgin and foundress of the Institute of Handmaidens of the Sacred Heart.

The list of those to be canonized is rounded out by Nuno de Santa Maria Alvares Pereira (1360-1431), a Portuguese religious of the Order of Friars of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel.

Bishop Griess confirms 44 at St. Paul

Bishop Roger W. Gries talks to students in the Parish Activity Center before Mass.
Below: Gabrielle Kapper is anointed. With her is sponsor Mrs. Debbie Dodson

The Most Rev. Bishop Roger W. Gries, Auxiliary Bishop of the Cleveland Diocese, confirmed 35 students and nine adults at a 4 p.m.Mass on Sunday in St. Paul Church.

Candidates at the Mass on Divine Mercy Sunday were presented to the Bishop for Confirmation by the Rev. Fr. Ralph W. Thomas, pastor of St. Paul. The Rev. J. David Seal of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Cuyahoga Falls was master of ceremonies. Deacon Frank Lonteen of St; Paul read the Gospel.

After renewing their baptismal promises the candidates came forward with their sponsors standing behind them, placing their right hand on the shoulder of the candidate. The Bishop anointed each with chrism (an oil made form olive oil and balsam). The anointing means each is called and chosen by God in Baptism and now in Confirmation.

After confirmation the eighth grade teacher Mrs. Sarah Mizak, assisted by school principal Mrs. Rosemary Capotosto, placed a red satin ribbon with a red Holy Spirit cross on each of the students.

Bishop Gries met to talk with the students in the Parish Activity Center prior to Mass. He joined them for a class photo and attended a PTO reception in Boeke Hall.

See an earlier artilcle which lists all the candidates, their Confirmation name and sponsors.

Click on the headline to see more photos.

Rebecca Factor dies at 40 of cancer

Rebecca Factor, 40 years young, went home to be with the Lord on April 18, surrounded by her many friends and family, after a short, but valiant fight with cancer.

Becky's great sense of humor stayed with her until the end. We know where she is and we're sure that the place God prepared for her has a stage and a karaoke machine. Heaven is in for a great surprise! "Then I count my blessings that you're mine for always. Sing away, sing away, my darling we'll sing away. This is our kingdom of days."

Becky was preceded in death by her parents, Ann and Dick McKinley. She is survived by her best friend and soul mate, Gerry and their dog Mattie. She is also survived by sisters and brother, Sherry (Phil) Tafoya, Lyn Csonka, Bobby (Debbie) Weaver, Patty, Deanne (Brad). She is survived by her second family, mother and father-in-law, Bernard and Mary Factor; brothers and sisters-in-law, Buddy, Maureen (Dick) Cannon, Mike (Sue), Dick (Lori), Ed (Marianne), Rosemary (Don) Tarosky, Maggie (Michael) Reitenbauch, Bill (Pam), Bob (Becky). Between both families, she is survived by 54 nieces and nephews.

Per Becky and Gerry's wishes, cremation has taken place. Calling hours will be Tuesday, 2 to 6 p.m. at NEWCOMER FUNERAL HOME, 131 N. Canton Rd., with a service immediately following at 6 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the family at any US Bank. A mass will be held at a later date at St. Paul Catholic Church on Brown St. Contact them for details 330- 724-1263. To leave a special message for the family online, visit
www.NewcomerAkron.com.NEWCOMER FUNERAL HOME, 330-784-3334.
[Beacon Journal, Akron, OH, Monday, April 20, 2009, page B4, col.6]

Here's St. Paul 7/8 Grade volleyball team

Back row (from left) are coach Sean Collins, Gabby Kapper, Maggie Fatica,
Jamie Dean and Kiana Hammond. In front (from left) are Sierra Robinson,
Katie Coughlin, Madison Buzek and Emily Roberts

Click on photo for improved view

It's Happening at St. Paul

Sunday, April 26
Confirmation Liturgy at 4 p.m. in the church with the Most Rev. Bishop Roger Gries officiating Reception to follow in Boeke Hall. Candidates should sign in at the Parish Activity Center at 2:30 P.M. Sponsors meet at 3 p.m. in Room 111.
PSR classes from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Cnter
Coffee and Donuts after Masses in the Parish Activity Center.

Monday, April 20
St. Paul School classes resume
SOLACE support begins a new series of six sessions at 7 p.m. in the Parish Activity Center. Call June at 330-773-3177 or Terry at 330-724-1263 for information.
Girl Scout Troop 456 will meet at 6 p.m. in the school cafeteria
Cub Scout Pack 3081 will meet at 6 p.m. in Boeke Hall

Tuesday, April 21
Early School dismissal at 1:45 p.m.
Family Dinner Night at Cici’s on Waterloo Road. Cici gives 10 percent to PTO.
Eucharistic Adoration 7:30 a.m. to noon only
Senior Prayer Hour 11 a..m. in the church (Note time change)

Wednesday, April 22
Scripture study will be at 9 a.m. in Room 111
Bible study will be at 7 p.m. in the rectory
Girl Scout Troop 360 will meet at 2:45 p.m. in the school cafeteria.
Chess Club will meet at 4 p.m. in Room 111.
Liturgy and Worship Committee will meet adt 7 p.m. in Room 111
St. Paul Letters Discussion will be at 7 p.m. in the church.

Thursday, April 23
PTO will meet at 6:30 p.m. in Boeike Hall

Friday, April 24
Student Mass at 8:30 a.m. planned by Mrs. Jeanette Michel's Grade 3
2009 Spring Spectacular at Guy's Party Centre on Waterloo Road. Tickets are $125 per couple. Call Tony DiDonato 330-622-4775 or Fred Cafarelli 330-724-1946

Sunday, April 26
PSR classes from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Cnter
Coffee and Donuts;after Masses in the Parish Activity Center.
Booster Club will meet at 7 p.m. in Boeke Hall

See Datebook for other area events

Pure Fashion Show is May 3 at JSK Center

The Pure Fashion Show promoted for Sunday, May 3, at the John S. Knight Center states in its “mission statement” that it is a faith-based program that encourages teen girls to live, act, and dress in accordance with their dignity as children of God.

“Pure Fashion,” the statement says “focuses on guiding young women ages 14 to 18 to become confident, competent leaders who live the virtues of modesty and purity in their schools and communities.”

Pure Fashion hopes to positively impact the fashion industry by motivating customers to choose clothing and accessories that are fun and fresh, yet modest and respectful of the dignity of the human person.

The shpw announcement says 31 teen models will show case trendy and modest fashions from a variety of retailers.

Tickets are $35 until Sunday, May 3. The price then goes up to $40.

Doors open at 11:30 a.m. with a silent auction and many local vendor booths. Brooke Taylor of radio station 95.5 FM the Fish will be the emcee and Brenda Sherman, national director of Pure Fashion, will speak.

For questions call Sharon at 330-715-9613.

Click on the headline, for information on the show and on Pure Fashion.

You also can download from our online storage area a PDF file:
Pure Fashion clothng guidelines.

Mass Intentions April 18-26

SATURDAY, April 18 Easter Saturday
4:30pm Sunday Vigil
‘Larry Kalgreen +

SUNDAY, April 19 Second Sunday of Easter / Divine Mercy Sunday
9:00am Agnes Ruth +
11:00am Living & Deceased Parishioners of St. Paul

MONDAY, April 20 Easter Weekday
7:00am For the ill and homebound
8:30am Donna Casto-Sampson +

TUESDAY, April 21 Anselm, bishop & doctor
7:00am Dishong & Walchak Families
8:30am Morning Prayer and Communion

WEDNESDAY, April22 Easter Weekday
7:00am For all who are unemployed
8:30am Alma Lewis +

THURSDAY, April 23 George, martyr; Adalbert, bishop & martyr
7:00am Josephine Dettorre +
8:30am Morning Prayer and Communion

FRIDAY, April 24 Fidelis of Sigmaringen, priest & martyr
7:00am Morning Prayer and Communion
8:30am Steve Holbein + (anniv.)

SATURDAY, April 25 Mark, Evangelist
4:30pm Sunday Vigil
Living & Deceased Parishioners of St. Paul

SUNDAY, April 26 Third Sunday of Easter
9:00am Richard & Betty Capron +
11:00am For an end to all war

Celebrating jubilees in 2009

CLICK ON PHOTOS TO IMPROVE VIEW

Three retired Akron area priests and Bishop Anthony J. Pilla will celebrate a half century in the priesthood this year.

In addition, there are five others celebrating with Akron area connections celebrating jubilees.

Celebrating 50 years are Fr. James J. Berardi, who celebrates Mass regularly at St. Paul, Fr. John J. Mueller, retired pastor of St. Bernard, Fr. John M. Tezie, a former pastor at St. John the Baptist and Bishop Anthony J.Pillla.

Celebrating 40 years are the Rev. Fr. Samuel R. Ciccolini, executive director of the Interval Brotherhood Home since December, 1975, and Fr. Charles L. Ryba, pastor of Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish at Columbia Station, who was a vicar at St. Paul from September 1977 to June 1982.

Marking 25 years are Fr. Thomas P. Kowatch, vicar at Queen of Heaven since August, 2007; Fr. Pete Colletti, pastor of St. Michael in Independence since July, 2005, who served as vicar at St. Bernard and St. Martha; and Fr. Edwin M. Leonard, who was pastor of Annunciation from June 2003 to November 2006.

Celebrating her 50th jubilee was Sister Mary Karen Chevrier OP of the Sisters of St. Dominic of Akron who is in visitation ministry at St. John the Baptist and the Elms Motherhiouse Team.. She was named St. John Woman of the Year in December, 23008 at the annual bandquet of Summit Regional Council of Catholic Women

Fathers Berardi, Ciccolini and Ryba all have St. Paul connections.

Fr. Berardi will celebrate his jubilee with a Mass at St. Paul in June. Fr. Berardi was born March 16, 1933 at St. Thomas Hospital and grew up in Firestone Park on Glenmount. He celebrated his first Mass on Trinity Sunday in 1959 in the old St. Paul Church. He was ordained May 23, 1959, and was a classmate of Bishop Pilla. For more than half of his years as a priest --25 plus years– Father Berardi was chaplain of Akron City Hospital. He gave up the job reluctantly in December 2007 on the strong advice of doctors. He had been chaplain since February 6, 1984.

Fr. Mueller, also ordained on May 23, 1959 with Berardi and Pilla, was pastor of St. Bernard Parish from February, 1975 to November, 1982. He retired in July 2004 and resides in Huron, OH.

Bishop Pilla was the Bishop of the Cleveland Diocese from January 1981 to May, 2008.

Fr. Ciccolini was ordained May 31, 1989. He has been vicar at St. Anthony, June 1989 to December, 1974, St. Paul from December 1974 tp December 1975, Queen of Heaven, December 1976 to July 1980 and Immaculate Conception from then to the present.

Fr. Ryba, who was ordained May 31, 1969, was a vicar at St. Paul from September 1977 to June, 1982. He will celebrate his jubilee at an 11 a.m. Mass on May 31 at St. Elizabeth Seton Parish where he has been pastor since March 1993.

Fr. Kowatch, who was ordained January 12, 1985, has been vicar at Queen of Heaven since August 2007 and served at St. Matthew from June 1989 to August 1995.

Fr. Colletti, ordained June 9, 1984, was named pastor of St. Michael Parish in Independence in July 2005. He was a vicar there from October 2001 until he was named pastor. He served at St. Bernard from June 1989 to May 1992 and at St. Martha from June 1998 to October 1999.

Fr. Leonard, ordained June 9, 1984, was administrator pro-tem at Annunciation from November 2003 until he was named pastor the following June. He also served at St. Hilary from June 1989 to July 1994.

A complete list of those marking anniversaries this year is the the Ar\pril 17 issue of the Catholic Universe Bulletin.

Time schedule, photos for Confirmation

Confirmation candidates should arrive at the Parish Activity Center at 2:30 p.m. Sunday for the Confirmation Mass which is at 4 p.m. Sponsors should arrive at 3 p.m. in Room 111. The Most Rev. Bishop Roger W. Gries O.S.B .will confirm 35 students and nine adults. The PTO will be host for a reception following the Mass in Boeke Hall.

A group photo of the confirmation call will be made about 3 p.m. by Dave Ruegg of Heritage Studio and Gallery, a St. Paul parishioner. Ruegg will begin taking individual photos of students at 2 p.m. Students were sent lnformation about arranging for individual photos. Individuals who have not made arrangements may download a form listing prices and other information. The 8 X 10 group photo will cost $14.50. Prices rfor special packages are listed on the form.

Click photo form to go to our online storage site to download the form.

The photo studio also is offering a discount on framing with the coupon shown here.

Click on the coupon and hit control + P on your keyboard to print it.

Fr. Kowatch celebrated 8:30 a.m. Mass

The Rev. Fr. Thomas Kowatch, vicar at Queen of Heaven, celebrated the 8:230 a.m. Mass today. The Mass is ordinarily the Mass for students, but they are on Easter vacation and resume classes on Monday.

Bishop Gries to confirm 44 at St. Paul

The Most Rev. Bishop Roger W. Gries O.S.B.will celebrate the Confirmation Mass at 4 p.m. on Sunday in St. Paul Church for 35 students and nine adults. The PTO will be host for a reception following the Mass in Boeke Hall.

Deacon Rev. Mr. J. David Seal of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Cuyahoga Falls will be master of ceremonies. Deacon Rev. Mr. Frank Lonteen will assist.

The pastor, the Rev. Fr. Ralph W. Thomas, will present the candidates for Confirmation to the Bishop. After renewing their baptismal promises the candidates will come forward with their sponsors standing behind them, placing their right hand on the shoulder of the candidate.

Each candidate will be anointed with chrism (an oil made form olive oil and balsam). The anointing means each is called and chosen by God in Baptism and now in Confirmation. Bishop Gries then says:

“(Confirmation name) , be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit”

Here are the candidates / the Confirmation name chosen / and sponsor:

Aaron Abernathy / Anthony / Robert Factor
Alyse Bachmann / Cecilia / Daniel, Foley
Natalie Bender / Elizabeth / Katherine Bender
Madison Buzek / Theruse / Lois Kapper
Noelle Colant / Brigid / Zachariah Wichman
Kathleen Coughlin / Lucy / Loree Conely
Jamie Dean / Catherine / Julie Zupke
Nicholas DeShane / Genesius / Daniel DeShane
\Arthur Dobbins / Nicholas / Patricia Dobbins
Zachary Durbin /. Zacharias / Charlotte Hertzig
Trevor Ellis / Trevor / Lori Wammes ,
Maggi Fatica / Ann / : Christine Ball
David Galehouse / Robert /Joseph Merle
Adam Gray / Maximilian / John Testa
Hannah Horrigan / Alice / Anthony Horrigan
Matthew Kannel / Jerome / Deborah Petry
Gabrielle Kapper / Elizabeth / Deborah Dodson
Alexandra Krim / Joan /: Cheryl Childres
Erin Liggett / Elizabeth / Helen Poston
Matthew Linhares / Matthew / Craig Richmond
Johnathon Linn / Paul / : Edward Struckel
Grayson Mauthe / Francis / Katherine Mousetes
Angelina Miller / Agnes / Anne Wright
John Miller / Michael /: Rudy Armocida
John Morrison / John / : Cynthia Morrison .
Russell Muster / Sebastian / Amanda Nlcollno
Jenna Pavlov / Clare /: Jacquelyn Miller
Abigail Pilgram / Teresa /: MaryAnn DeKemper
Jacob Samulak / Alexander /: Marcia Fletcher
Joshua Silvey / Daniel / Tara Silvey
Summer Susick / Jane / Christine Ailiff
Kylie Thanasiu / Mary /. Rachel Balca
Bethany Vance / Christine / Gertrude Vance
Kristin Walker. / Elizabeth ./:Anna Waters
Vincent Woicehovich / Vincent / Wilson Woicehovlch

Adults
Jodi Constantine / Marie / : David Constantine
Andrew Factor./ Frederick / :Sandra Gallo
Janet Harland / Monica / Tim Harland
Robert Joseph / Martin / Jeffrey Miller
Kathleen Kosar / Kathleen / Helen Joseph
Damion Sedlock / Christoper /: Cherie Sedlock
Julie Wahl / Julie /: Judy Rlchard .
Carrie Washnock / Frances ./ Kathleen Washnock
Jacob Weingart / Jerome / : Joy Marie Weingart

Prelate concerned by poor Eucharistic practice

The Catholic archbishop of Johannesburg, Buti Tlaghale, has expressed his disappointment about poor Eucharistic practice among some priests and the faithful.

The Eucharist effectively makes present the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, yet there is evidence that some Catholics do not show faith in the real presence of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament, Archbishop Tlaghale said in his homily on Holy Thursday.

“Many enter the church and do not make the sign of the cross with holy water. Many no longer genuflect; not even a bow that acknowledges the presence of Christ in the tabernacle,” the archbishop said.

He also noted that altar rails had been dismantled, making it no longer imperative for the faithful to kneel when receiving the ‘Body of Christ’.

“Our churches are like a market place before and after mass partly because we have moved the tabernacle to a separate room, or simply because we have lost the sense of the presence of the Holy. We have abandoned silence and a prayerful atmosphere in the church.”

The archbishop recommended that where possible the centrality of the tabernacle be restored and the practice of genuflecting and silence revived.

“Church law requires us to fast for an hour before the Eucharist. The chewing of gum during Mass is simply distasteful,” Archbishop Tlaghale further said.

“The taking of Communion to the sick often leaves much to be desired. Usually, Consecrated Hosts are distributed to lay ministers after Communion. And the priest asks: ‘How many?’ How many what? It does not sound like a language of people who recognise the presence of the Lord.”

Lay ministers carrying Communion to the sick often stop to chat with friends as they go. “At times they rush to do a shopping round before proceeding to the sick. It is not unusual for some to keep the Consecrated Hosts at home because they did not find the sick person or because on their return, they found the church locked.”

Archbishop Tlaghale encouraged the practice of priests praying with altar-servers in the sacristy before and after Mass, but regretted that “some sacristies are like a market place. No prayers are said.”

He challenged priests, as custodians of the Eucharist, to promote adoration and ensure that papal or Vatican documents on the Eucharist are well known by Christians.

“My strong plea to the priests: put these documents within the reach of your parishioners. Help us translate them into vernacular languages where necessary. This is one way of reawakening and increasing Eucharistic faith. This is the supreme treasure of the Catholic Church.”

Divine Mercy Sunday is next Sunday

Divine Mercy Sunday will be celebrated next Sunday, April 19, at Queen of Heaven Parish. The outdoor celebration will be from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, April 19. It will include Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, veneration of the Divine Mercy image, singing of the Divine Mercy Chaplet, and Benediction. A social will follow.

The Feast of the Divine Mercy was established by the late Pope John Paul II (who coincidentally died on the vigil of the Divine Mercy Sunday in 2005) on April 30, 2000 on the occasion of Blessed Sister Faustina’s canonization. The Feast is dedicated to the Devotion to the Divine Mercy and is celebrated on the first Sunday following Easter.

Devotion to Jesus as The Divine Mercy is based on the writings of Saint Faustina Kowalska, an uneducated Polish nun who, in obedience to her spiritual director, wrote a diary of about 600 pages recording the revelations she received about God's mercy. Even before her death in 1938, the devotion to The Divine Mercy had begun to spread.

Would you .like to know how to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet.

There is a nice PDF file on our online storage area you can download and print out.

The file prints on one 11/1/2 by 8 inch (horizontal page) which can be folded into a neat tri-fold you can carry with you to the service.

Click on the headline to download the file.

Directions to Queen of Heaven Parish:

From St. Paul to Queen of Heaven
North on Brown to Wilbeth, turn RIGHT.
Go 0.3 miles to 1-77 South.
Go S.5 miles and exit at Massillon Road, turn RIGHT.
Go 1 mile and turn RIGHT on Steese Rd.
Go 0.2 miles to church on left.
TOTAL TRAVEL TIME 10 minutes-7.5 miles

Urbi et orbi: Easter 2009

EASTER 2009

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Rome and throughout the world,

From the depths of my heart, I wish all of you a blessed Easter. To quote Saint Augustine, “Resurrectio Domini, spes nostra – the resurrection of the Lord is our hope” (Sermon 261:1). With these words, the great Bishop explained to the faithful that Jesus rose again so that we, though destined to die, should not despair, worrying that with death life is completely finished; Christ is risen to give us hope (cf. ibid.).

Indeed, one of the questions that most preoccupies men and women is this: what is there after death? To this mystery today’s solemnity allows us to respond that death does not have the last word, because Life will be victorious at the end. This certainty of ours is based not on simple human reasoning, but on a historical fact of faith: Jesus Christ, crucified and buried, is risen with his glorified body. Jesus is risen so that we too, believing in him, may have eternal life. This proclamation is at the heart of the Gospel message. As Saint Paul vigorously declares: “If Christ has not been raised, our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain.” He goes on to say: “If for this life only we have hoped in Christ, we are of all men most to be pitied” (1 Cor 15:14,19). Ever since the dawn of Easter a new Spring of hope has filled the world; from that day forward our resurrection has begun, because Easter does not simply signal a moment in history, but the beginning of a new condition: Jesus is risen not because his memory remains alive in the hearts of his disciples, but because he himself lives in us, and in him we can already savour the joy of eternal life.

The resurrection, then, is not a theory, but a historical reality revealed by the man Jesus Christ by means of his “Passover”, his “passage”, that has opened a “new way” between heaven and earth (cf. Heb 10:20). It is neither a myth nor a dream, it is not a vision or a utopia, it is not a fairy tale, but it is a singular and unrepeatable event: Jesus of Nazareth, son of Mary, who at dusk on Friday was taken down from the Cross and buried, has victoriously left the tomb. In fact, at dawn on the first day after the Sabbath, Peter and John found the tomb empty. Mary Magdalene and the other women encountered the risen Jesus. On the way to Emmaus the two disciples recognized him at the breaking of the bread. The Risen One appeared to the Apostles that evening in the Upper Room and then to many other disciples in Galilee.

The proclamation of the Lord’s Resurrection lightens up the dark regions of the world in which we live. I am referring particularly to materialism and nihilism, to a vision of the world that is unable to move beyond what is scientifically verifiable, and retreats cheerlessly into a sense of emptiness which is thought to be the definitive destiny of human life. It is a fact that if Christ had not risen, the “emptiness” would be set to prevail. If we take away Christ and his resurrection, there is no escape for man, and every one of his hopes remains an illusion. Yet today is the day when the proclamation of the Lord’s resurrection vigorously bursts forth, and it is the answer to the recurring question of the sceptics, that we also find in the book of Ecclesiastes: “Is there a thing of which it is said, ‘See, this is new’?” (Ec 1:10). We answer, yes: on Easter morning, everything was renewed. “Mors et vita, duello conflixere mirando: dux vitae mortuus, regnat vivus – Death and life have come face to face in a tremendous duel: the Lord of life was dead, but now he lives triumphant.” This is what is new! A newness that changes the lives of those who accept it, as in the case of the saints. This, for example, is what happened to Saint Paul.

Many times, in the context of the Pauline year, we have had occasion to meditate on the experience of the great Apostle. Saul of Tarsus, the relentless persecutor ofChristians, encountered the risen Christ on the road to Damascus, and was “conquered” by him. The rest we know. In Paul there occurred what he would later write about to the Christians of Corinth: “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold, the new has come” (2 Cor 5:17). Let us look at this great evangelizer, who with bold enthusiasm and apostolic zeal brought the Gospel to many different peoples in the world of that time. Let his teaching and example inspire us to go in search of the Lord Jesus. Let them encourage us to trust him, because that sense of emptiness, which tends to intoxicate humanity, has been overcome by the light and the hope that emanate from the resurrection. The words of the Psalm have truly been fulfilled: “Darkness is not darkness for you, and the night is as clear as the day” (Ps 139 [138]:12). It is no longer emptiness that envelops all things, but the loving presence of God. The very reign of death has been set free, because the Word of life has even reached the “underworld”, carried by the breath of the Spirit (v. 8).

If it is true that death no longer has power over man and over the world, there still remain very many, in fact too many signs of its former dominion. Even if through Easter, Christ has destroyed the root of evil, he still wants the assistance of men and women in every time and place who help him to affirm his victory using his own weapons: the weapons of justice and truth, mercy, forgiveness and love. This is the message which, during my recent Apostolic Visit to Cameroon and Angola, I wanted to convey to the entire African continent, where I was welcomed with such great enthusiasm and readiness to listen. Africa suffers disproportionately from the cruel and unending conflicts, often forgotten, that are causing so much bloodshed and destruction in several of her nations, and from the growing number of her sons and daughters who fall prey to hunger, poverty and disease. I shall repeat the same message emphatically in the Holy Land, to which I shall have the joy of travelling in a few weeks from now. Reconciliation – difficult, but indispensable – is a precondition for a future of overall security and peaceful coexistence, and it can only be achieved through renewed, persevering and sincere efforts to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. My thoughts move outwards from the Holy Land to neighbouring countries, to the Middle East, to the whole world. At a time of world food shortage, of financial turmoil, of old and new forms of poverty, of disturbing climate change, of violence and deprivation which force many to leave their homelands in search of a less precarious form of existence, of the ever-present threat of terrorism, of growing fears over the future, it is urgent to rediscover grounds for hope. Let no one draw back from this peaceful battle that has been launched by Christ’s Resurrection. For as I said earlier, Christ is looking for men and women who will help him to affirm his victory using his own weapons: the weapons of justice and truth, mercy, forgiveness and love.

Resurrectio Domini, spes nostra! The resurrection of Christ is our hope! This the Church proclaims today with joy. She announces the hope that is now firm and invincible because God has raised Jesus Christ from the dead. She communicates the hope that she carries in her heart and wishes to share with all people in every place, especially where Christians suffer persecution because of their faith and their commitment to justice and peace. She invokes the hope that can call forth the courage to do good, even when it costs, especially when it costs. Today the Church sings “the day that the Lord has made”, and she summons people to joy. Today the Church calls in prayer upon Mary, Star of Hope, asking her to guide humanity towards the safe haven of salvation which is the heart of Christ, the paschal Victim, the Lamb who has “redeemed the world”, the Innocent one who has “reconciled us sinners with the Father”. To him, our victorious King, to him who is crucified and risen, we sing out with joy our Alleluia!

Richard Dieringer Mass is Wednesday

Richard G. Dieringer, age 92, our beloved father, husband, grandfather, and great- grandfather passed away peacefully into Heaven on April 8, 2009 in the arms of his wife and three daughters.

He is survived by Paulyne, his wife and sweetheart of over 68 years; and three daughters, Sue Williams and husband Brian, Linda Pastor and husband Tom, and Sally Spindler and husband Steve; he leaves grandchildren, Brian J. Williams, Jim Williams and wife, Traci, Jake Richard Spindler and his great-grandchildren, Rebecca, Rachel, Kasey, and Megan Williams. He also leaves many nieces and nephews and will be missed by best buddy, Jack Egan; good friend, Elma Roush, and longtime neighbor, Mildred Powell.

Born in Akron, Ohio on November 1, 1916 to George and Ora Stoody Dieringer, who preceded him in death, he is also now reunited with his brothers, Paul, Bernie, Kenny, Dutch, Bob, and his sisters, Frances and Maddy.

Dick was a lifelong resident of Firestone Park and a charter member of St. Paul Catholic Church. His entire life he remained committed and supportive of the needs of St. Paul's. After attending Firestone Park and St. Paul Elementary Schools, he attended Garfield High School and graduated in the Class of 1935. His love of sports was a big part of his life and was evidenced in his youth when he was a quarterback in the Akron Beacon Journal Red Peppers Bantam Football League. At Garfield High he was captain and quarterback of the football team. No doubt he was Notre Dame's biggest fan til the end! An avid golfer, one of the highlights of his life was scoring a hole-in-one at Firestone Public Golf Course.

He was honored to serve his country in World War II in the109th Medical Corps of the U.S. Army. In the European Theatre of Operations he landed at Omaha Beach aboard the U.S.S. Westpoint. Last month he was a special guest and was saluted while visiting the World War II Museum in Fredericksburg, Texas. He was thrilled when his grandson, Brian J. Williams honored him as a special guest at the Veteran's Day celebration at Wadsworth High School.

Dad was a third degree member of Council No. 3410 of the Knights of Columbus, Firestone VFW Post 3383, and the Firestone Park Prime Timers. He retired from Firestone Tire & Rubber Company with 42 years service, most of them as supervisor of the Plant One Tire Room.

Sue and Linda are forever grateful to our sister, Sally and her family for caring for our parents the past six months in their home in Kingwood, Texas.

Calling hours will be Tuesday, April 14 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Dunn-Quigley Funeral Home, 811 Grant St., Akron, Ohio. Mass will be Wednesday, April 15 at 10 a.m. at St. Paul Catholic Church, 1580 Brown St., Akron, Ohio. Interment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery where a military salute will be given by Firestone VFW Post 3383. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his name to St. Paul School Endowment Trust, 433 Mission Dr., Akron, Ohio 44301.
[Beacon Journal, Akron, OH, Sunday, April 12, 2009, page B5, col. 4]

For Easter morn 2009 at St. Paul Parish

Risen Christ at left overlooks altar at St. Paul for Easter Sunday

Easter

Seek God's house in happy throng;
Crowded let His table be;
Mingle praises, prayer, and song,
Singing to the Trinity.
Henceforth let your souls always
Make each morn an Easter Day.

~Gerard Manley Hopkins (1884 - 1889)

one of the greatest Catholic poets


Rejoice
He is risen

Robert Brodbeck named St. Paul principal

Robert A. Brodbeck, a lifetime member of St. Paul Parish, will become the principal of St. Paul School on July 1.

Brodbeck has taught in Akron public schools since 1986 and has been an assistant principal for four years, the least three years at Hyre Middle School.

A 1968 graduate of Garfield High School he received a master’s degree in education administration from the University of Akron where he completed undergraduate work while working for Goodyear for 10 years.

He is excited about working in Catholic education. “It is something I’ve always wanted to do,” he said. He taught at St. Sebastian for four years earlier in his career.

The new principal has been a lector and Eucharistic minister at St. Paul and was active for many years in St. Vincent de Paul.

Brodbeck has two sons, Daniel born in 1978 who works for the Department of Defense and Patrick, born in 1982, who has just finished a graduate program in international studies at the University of Denver.

Brodbeck’s wife, Carol A. (Christ) Brodbeck, died unexpectedly Aug. 9, 2006 at the age of 55.. She was a life-long member of St. Paul's Catholic Church and was a nurse. The Carol A. Brodbeck Nursing Scholarship Memorial Walk has provided several nursing scholarships at the University of Akron.

The selection of Brodbeck was announced in this weekend’s church bulletin. He replaces Mrs. Rosemary Capotosto.

“Mr. Brodbeck has been an active member of our parish community,” the pastor, Rev .Fr. Ralph Thomas said. “His experience and qualifications will be a wonderful asset to our students and our families.”

“I join with all our parishioners in expressing our gratitude and appreciation for Mrs. Rosemary Capotosto’s many years of dedication and commitment to the ideals of a Catholic Education here at St. Paul School. We sincerely applaud her generous dedication to the ideals of her profession.”

Pretzels: A Lenten tradition

At the end of classes before Easter vacation began, the kindergarten and fourth grade students got together to make pretzels– a traditional Lenten treat. The fourth graders performed a readers' theater called "Walter the Baker" and taught the kindergarten about the history of pretzels. The students then did a pretzel prayer before eating.

The exact history of pretzels is unknown.

It has been told that one day around the year 610, a monk who was busy baking the unleavened bread that would be used during Lent decided to make a treat for the children who had learned to recite their prayers.

Christians in those days did not pray by bowing their heads and folding their hands. At that time they prayed by folding their hands across their chests with each hand touching the opposite shoulder. The three empty holes represented the Trinity

This clever monk formed the dough, so the story goes, so that one "hand" was each touching the opposite "shoulder" in prayer. He gave his creation the name pretiola, which in Latin means "little reward." They were the rewards for the children who learned their prayers.

Tradition has it that the Pilgrims brought the pretzel with them to North America on the Mayflower in 1620.

[Click on the headline to see more photos of the pretzel makers. The photos were provided by kindergarten teacher Mrs. Debbie Dodson]

It's Happening at St. Paul

Sunday, April 12 Easter Sunday
No PSR and no coffee and donuts

Monday, April 13
Men's Fellowship will meet for prayer and Bible Study at 7 p.m. in Room 111. The Bible study passage is Galatians 1: 1-24 The one Gospel.

Tuesday, April 14
Eucharistic Adoration 7:30 a.m. to noon only
Senior Prayer Hour 11 a..m. in the church (Note time change)
Adult Choir practice at 7 p.m. in the Music Room

Wednesday, April 15
Scripture study will be at 9 a.m. in Room 111
Bible study will be at 7 p.m. in the rectory

Saturday, April 18
Men's Fellowship breakfast at 8 a.m. in Boeke Hall

Sunday, April 19
Confirmation Liturgy at 4 p.m. in the church with the Most Rev. Bishop Roger Gries officiating Reception to follow in Boeke Hall. Candidates should sign in at the Parish Activity Center at 2:30 P.M. Sponsors meet at 3 p.m. in Room 111.
PSR classes from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Cnter
Coffee and Donuts;after Masses in the Parish Activity Center.

See Datebook of other area events

Holy Saturday
blessing of
food baskets

Parishioners gathered in the church at noon on Holy Saturday for the traditional blessing of food.

Baskets were placed on the steps of the altar for the blessing by the pastor, the Rev. Fr. Ralph Thomas.