April 6, 2008 Bulletin # 14 Our Lady of Lebanon Church · 06/04/2008 · 2008 Bulletins/Bulletin # 14 1 04.06.2008 Bulletin April 6, 2008 Bulletin # 14 Our Lady of Lebanon Church

2008 Bulletins/Bulletin # 14 1 04.06.2008 Bulletin

April 6, 2008 Bulletin # 14

Our Lady of Lebanon Church (Maronite Catholic Rite)

Faith Family Friends 2216 Eoff Street, Wheeling, WV 26003

Rectory: (304) 233-1688 • Fax: (304) 233-4714 E-Mail: [email protected] • Web Site: www.ololwv.com

Rev. Bakhos Chidiac (Pastor) Evelyn Ghaphery (Organist)

Charlotte Khourey & Thomasina Geimer (Secretaries)

Season of Resurrect ion 3rd Sunday of the Resurrect ion

Schedule of Divine Liturgies

*Weekend Masses: Saturday evening at 4:00 p.m. Sunday morning at 10:30 a.m. [Rosary & Litany start at 10:10 a.m.]

*Weekday Masses: At Noon. Please refer to the Mass schedule on page 3 of this bulletin for Mass times and changes due to special events. Thank you for your cooperation.

*Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament: Every 1st Saturday & Sunday of the month after Communion *Miraculous Medal Novena: Every 2nd Sunday of the month at 10:00 a.m. *Reconciliation: Saturday: 3:00 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. or any other time by appointment *Baptism: Kindly phone the Pastor as soon as the baby is born. Godparents must be Catholics. *Weddings: Please make arrangements at least six months in advance before any other plans are made. *Sick Calls & Anointing of the Sick: Please notify the pastor any time at (304) 233-1688 *Parish Council: Lou Khourey 277-3230, Linda Duffy 242-6853, Tom George 336-7142, P.J. Lenz 242-5606 and Carol Dougherty (740) 782-0146 *Choir Members: Rita Thomas Strawn, Shirley George, Allison Duffy, George Thomas, Ted Olinski, Earl Duffy,

Lou Khourey, Robert Vawter *Cedar Club: Linda Duffy, President 242-6853 *Women’s Society: Sandra Dusick, President 232-7395

*Please support Our Lady of Lebanon Church by patronizing our Advertisers *Bulletin Announcements: Submit all Bulletin Information to Fr. Bakhos. Deadline: Every Tuesday by Noon *Remember the Church in your Last Will – Her prayers will accompany you to heaven *New Parishioners: We welcome you with great joy & invite you to be officially listed as one of our parishioners *If you support the Church and need a Bulletin mailed to you, please call the Rectory *Parking: Saturday & Sunday–all spaces for parishioners; Monday through Friday–park ONLY in the 3 ALLEY spaces


Gospel Refl ection: 3rd Sunday of Resurrection Readings: 2Tim 2:8-13 & Lk 24:13-35

It is resurrection Sunday, yet for two disciples, it is still Good Friday. Jesus, the one who was to set them free, is gone and so is their hope. As they make their sad journey toward home, they share their disappointment with a stranger in their midst. Gradually the risen Christ opens their minds to the Scriptures. If the Messiah had to suffer so as to enter glory, might it not be necessary for them as well? When the disciples reach their village, they share a meal with their guest. At the table, their eyes, hearts and minds are opened, and they recognize the risen Lord. They are filled with joy! Jesus has not left them. He is present in the broken word, the broken bread and in the broken hearts of their brothers and sisters.

On Pentecost Sunday, the community no longer hides in fear. “Listen to me,” Peter says to the gathered

assembly, “God is faithful and has not abandoned us. In freeing Jesus from death’s bitter pangs, we can be confident that we will not undergo corruption. Though we are pilgrims in a strange land, God shows us the path to life. We sing with joy, ‘With the Lord at my side I shall not be disturbed!”’

For Reflection: Am I able to hear Jesus speak in the proclamation of the word? Do I recognize him at

the table with my brothers and sisters?

Mass Intentions THIS WEEKEND, April 5-6: “3rd Week of Resurrection” Saturday, April 5, at 4:00 p.m.:

Jean Bentz by Sheri, Eric, Riley & Hunter Fitzpatrick Special Intentions and good health of Louis & Marge John family members

Sunday, April 6, at 10:30 a.m.: Living & Deceased members of the Nicholas & Nimnoom Ghaphery Family and the David Abraham Ghaphery Family by the Ghaphery Family Helen Jalad Orosz by Louis & Marge John

Weekday Masses Monday, April 7: No Mass Tuesday, April 8: No Mass Wednesday, April 9, at Noon: Good health of Annette & Al Togliatti (Mansfield, Ohio) Alma B. Elias by Georgette Joseph Thursday, April 10, at Noon: Helen Jalad Orosz by Irene & Paul Schuler Helen Fielding by her husband Don (FL) and a special intention Friday, April 11, at Noon: Helen Jalad Orosz by Eva Coury Moffat Elias Louis George by A. D. Ghaphery, M.D. NEXT WEEKEND, April 12-13: “4th week of Resurrection” Saturday, April 12, at 4:00 p.m.:

Steve & Margaret Schlog (Birthday & Anniversary) by Bob & Fran Saseen Helen Saseen (on her Birthday) by her daughter Rosella Saseen

Sunday, April 13, at 10:30 a.m.: Dale Seidler, Sr. by his wife Nettie & Family Alma B. Elias by Georgette Joseph


Donations Toward the Building Project Donations towards the Building Project during February 2008: $75,141.00 Donations towards the Building Project during March 2008: $23,235.00

Building Project Items to Be Sponsored Every little bit helps! We ask all parishioners and friends of our parish to make a generous sacrifice and

now commit to sponsor some of the items listed below. The names of those who sponsor the tables, chairs and bricks will be written in the Golden Cedar Book displayed next to the Cedar Tree of Life. If you or your family members are able to sponsor an item, please contact any member of the parish council or the pastor.

Items to Be Sponsored Value 1 Table for new Cedar Hall (need 25 tables) $300.00 4 Chairs for new Cedar Hall (need 200 chairs) $300.00 100 bricks in the new façade (need 20,000 bricks) $300.00 50 bricks in the new façade (need 20,000 bricks) $150.00 25 bricks in the new façade (need 20,000 bricks) $100.00 10 bricks in the new façade (need 20,000 bricks) $50.00

Generous Donors of This Month: Donations Received

Gem Level Requested

Donor’s Name & Date

$6,250 Foundation The Schenk Charitable Trust (3.27.2008) $110 Women Society (50/50 Fundraising) (3.30.2008) $110 Sponsor Patty Smith sponsor 22 bricks (3.30.2008) $65 Sapphire Mike & Nicole Breit (NC) (3.31.2008)

May all generous parishioners, friends and benefactors be rewarded in good health and heavenly bliss.

Upcoming Calendar of Events Date: Event: Saturday, April 5 Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament – at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, April 6 Benediction after Mass Sunday, April 13 Spring Lebanese Bake Sale – Order Deadline Monday, April 14 Cedar Club Meeting – 7:00 p.m.in the Church Hall Saturday, April 19 Cedar Club Movie: Facing the Giants – see Bulletin note Sunday, April 20 Women’s Society Meeting – 11:30 a.m. Sunday, April 20 Extra Movie Night: The Ninth Day – see Bulletin note Sun.-Thur., April 20-24 Spring Lebanese Bake Sale – Work Days Sunday, April 27 1st Communion: Ashley Musilli and Kenley George during 10:30 a.m. Mass Sunday, April 27 50/50 Building Fund Raffle Drawing – after 10:30 a.m. Mass Sunday, May 4 May Crowning Sat.-Fri., May 10-16 Week of Mother’s Day Masses Sunday, May 18 Spaghetti Dinner – 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sunday, May 18 Women’s Society Raffle: “Wine & Dine” Gift Basket – at Spaghetti Dinner Saturday, June 7 Parish Rummage Sale Sunday, August 10 2008 Mahrajan at Oglebay Park


Saturday Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament (Saturday, April 5th) Upon request of many parishioners who believe in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist and who

wish to have undisturbed time with the Lord, the Saturday Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament will take place at 3:30 p.m. – this means before the 4:00 p.m. Mass – not after it. The Benediction will be celebrated once a month and takes only 20 minutes maximum. For those who like to see Jesus in the Eucharist and be blessed, please be at the church by 3:30 p.m. and we will start on time. (Sunday Benediction will be after Mass.)

Spring Lebanese Bake Sale (Order By: Sunday, April 13; Pick Up: April 23-24) Order Deadline Sunday, April 13 Spinach Preparation Sunday, April 20, 11:30 a.m. Baking to Fill Orders Monday to Thursday, April 21-24, 9:30 a.m. Order Pick Up Dates Wednesday & Thursday, April 23 & 24

Spring Lebanese Bake Sale Order Forms are available. The Women’s Society of our Church has scheduled its Spring Lebanese Bake Sale of Spinach Pies, Meat Pies, Sweet (Sesame) Bread, and Zattar Bread. Complete an order form from the Church entrance and return it by mail or place it in the collection basket. All those who helped in the past are asked to help us again on the baking days listed above. Please come and join in the camaraderie! Note: Please save large clean paper grocery bags for use in packing our orders. Cedar Club Meeting (Monday, April 14th, 7:00 p.m.) The next meeting is on Monday, April 14th, at 7:00 p.m. in the Church Hall. Come and join the fellowship and bring your ideas for future events. All are welcome. Our hostess for the evening will be Linda King.

Movie Night Now Featuring: Facing the Giants (Saturday, April 19th ) Due to the changed release date of The Bucket List movie the Cedar Club will show in its place: Facing the

Giants. It touches on the struggles of a high school coach and team. With the power of faith, they discover their own strengths to never give up and never back down. A good family movie. Rated PG-13.

Please bring an appetizer or snack to share. The Cedar Club will provide popcorn & beverages. Admission is FREE. Appetizer and snack buffet at 5:30 p.m. Showtime: 6:15 p.m. Please come and enjoy the show!

Women’s Society Meeting (Sunday, April 20th, after Mass) Plan to join the Women's Society for their next meeting scheduled for Sunday, April 20th, after Mass. They will make plans for events in May.

Extra Movie Night Featuring: The Ninth Day (Sunday, April 20th ) A movie titled The Ninth Day will be shown on Sunday as requested by Fr. Bakhos for the parish and all

friends. Based on a true story about a priest put into a concentration camp for speaking out against the Nazis. Fr. Kremer is later released, only to learn that he is being forced to convince the Bishop of Luxembourg to work with Nazi occupiers. Gestapo Gebhardt is under pressure to have the priest succeed – or suffer an unwanted transfer. The priest's trial is ultimately a story of faith and courage in the face of certain.

Please bring an appetizer or snack to share with the parishioners. The Cedar Club will provide popcorn & beverages. Admission is FREE. Appetizer and snack buffet at 5:30 p.m. Showtime: 6:15 p.m. Please come and enjoy the show!

First Communion (Sunday, April 27th, during 10:30 a.m. Mass) Ashley Musilli, daughter of Tara and Donnie (granddaughter of Jim & Shirley George) and Kenley

George daughter of Beth and Chris (granddaughter of Tom & Kathleen George) will celebrate their First Communion on Sunday, April 27th during 10:30 Mass. Fr. Bakhos started preparing the two smart candidates in September 2007 and he is happy to give them their first Communion which is the Body and Blood of Christ on Sunday, April 27th. May our prayers be for them.


Monthly 50/50 Building Fund Raffle (Drawing: Sunday, April 27) The Women’s Society continues to sponsor the Monthly 50/50 Building Fund Raffle. The drawing –from entries received from the canary yellow April tickets provided at the entrance of the church, and in the weekly church bulletin– will take place in the Social Hall following mass on Sunday, April 27.

Proceeds will benefit the Building Fund. Raffle Tickets are $1.00 each or 6 for $5.00. Buy or sell the tickets, and return the completed stubs as soon as possible in the collection or mail to: Our Lady of Lebanon Church, 2216 Eoff Street, Wheeling, WV 26003.

For more information or additional tickets, contact the church office at (304) 233-1688. Your generosity and cooperation enhances our Church. Congratulations and many thanks to Patricia Smith of Benwood who won the March 50/50 Raffle. She donated her prize of $110 back to our church to sponsor 22 bricks in the new façade of the building project.

Mother’s Day Masses (Saturday, May 10th, to Friday, May 16th) The best gift of love we can offer to our ONLY mother, who brought us to this life, is a

Mass offered for her good health and long life, if she is still alive, OR for the repose of her soul, if she has passed away. Our Lady of Lebanon Church is dedicating one week of prayers (5 days of Masses) for MOTHERS for the occasion of Mothers’ Day, Sunday, May 11. All intentions will be published in the bulletin in the order received from now until May 11. Please pray for the soul of your mother.

Mother’s Day: Prayer for Mothers Most Holy Mother of God, whose joyful visitation to Elizabeth brought her comfort and

support, we humbly ask you to pray for all mothers, that they may seek to provide support and encouragement to other mothers, according to your example. May we gain the insight and strength to act so that no mother is left unaided in her child-rearing responsibilities or overwhelmed by the circumstances of family life. We ask this through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

For the Repose of the Souls of Our Departed Mothers & Grandmothers: Deceased mothers of the Chidiac Family by Fr. Bakhos Louise N. Khourey & Gladys Howard by their children Lou & Charlotte and grandchildren

Emmalena & Louie Living and Deceased members of the Nicholas & Nimnoom Ghaphery Family and the David Abraham

Ghaphery Family by the Ghaphery Family Nimnoom Ghaphery by the Ghaphery Family Helen Fielding by her husband Don (FL) and a special intention Helen Fielding by her children and grandchildren and great grandchildren Mary Shipley by her daughter and granddaughter For Good Health and Long Life of Our Living Mothers & Grandmothers: Sadie Chidiac and my married sisters by Fr. Bakhos Charlotte Khourey by her husband Lou and her children Emmalena & Louie Diane Frenn by her children Andreah & Justin Frenn

Spaghetti Dinner (Sunday, May 18, 11:30 a.m. -5:30 p.m.) Mark your calendars now and plan to enjoy our Spring Spaghetti Dinner. More information will come

in upcoming bulletins.


"Wine & Dine" Gift Basket Raffle (Sunday, May 18th, at the Spaghetti Dinner) The Women's Society of Our Lady of Lebanon Church will sponsor a "Wine & Dine" gift basket to be

raffled at 5:00 p.m. during the Spaghetti Dinner on Sunday, May 18. Green colored tickets for the "Wine & Dine" Gift Basket are available now at $1.00 each or 6 for $5.00 from Women's Society members, at the church entrance or from our Weekly Bulletins. Proceeds from the gift basket raffles will benefit our Building Project.

This beautiful basket contains: Italian wine, a variety of pasta, pasta sauce, Italian vinegar, and many other items which will make it possible for the winner to have a great Italian meal (or two or three...).

We thank each of you from the bottom of our heart for the blessing of your cooperation with every one of our raffles and events – whether you buy raffle tickets, sponsor an item, make a donation or offer your talents and time.

Happy Bir thday to Those Born in Apri l April 6: Ronald Weisner April 8: Jesse John April 10: Bernadine Elias, Connie George, Richard Coury April 11: Randy Weisner April 12: Justin Frenn April 13: Adel Frenn April 14: Mark McLaughlin April 15: Megan Voellinger April 20: Craig Haas April 28: Ann Marie Weisner-Serafin April 29: Betty Joseph, Linda Hostutler April 30: Cecilia Ammar

Please pray for those on our Prayer List Please Remember Those Hospitalized Recently In Your Prayers:

Patti Smith, Eleanor Thomas, Louis John, Richard Straughn (brother of Pat Smith), Sue Jochum, Mike Sobota, John John, Rosella Saseen, Betty Jo & Joseph Perry (parents of Danielle Lavoie), Mary Piko, Morgan Harris, Irene Schuler, Diane Palotay, Bob Wiles, Shipley Shipley,

Also please pray for those who asked us to pray for them: Waneta Acker, Deb Yochum, Shannon Adler, Mary Thomas, Katherine Siebieda, , Jan Peeks (friend of Fr. Bakhos & Larry Josephs, MN), Bonnie Shaw (St. Clairsville), Judy Miller (Martins Ferry), Annette Tysk (friend of Susie Fadoul), Amelia Misko (sister of Eva Powell), Anna Nicholas, Zahoe Khoury (Mother of Dr. Rajai Khoury), Theresa Sofka, Martha Ruggiero and her son Philip, Jennie Bedway, Betty Joseph, Ralph Sengewalt, Joe Linton, Bernard Olako, Sr., Debbie Laughlin (Columbus), Virginia Khourey Bryan (aunt of Lou Khourey), Mary Ryncarz (Shadyside), Alice (Thomas) Holmes, Leona Albaugh, Manell Brice (Arlington), Rose Mary Bris-Roybal (Albuquerque), Clara Joseph-Malone (daughter of Josephine Joseph), John Vawter and his mother (brother and mother of Dr. Rob Vawter)

Your Church Support Last Week $1,016 Collection

$24 Fundraising (cook books) $305 Utilities $43 Candles

$7,570 Building Fund $40 Parking $18 St. Maron Dinner

$9,016 Total. May God reward you many fold


What’s New? Remember Our Benefactor: Father S. Eugene Jacobs (from the obituary)

Father S. Eugene Jacobs of Loretto, PA, died March 4, 2008, at Garvey Manor in Hollidaysburg, PA. A retired priest of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, he served in several Loretto-area parishes, mainly at the Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel. He also served as chaplain to the Sacred Heart Sisters in Munster and Cresson, Pa., the Prince Gallitzin Chapter of Catholics United for the Faith, the Prince Gaffitzin- Historical Association of Loretto for a number of years and the Polycarp Institute in Altoona, PA.

He was preceded in death by his parents John and Barbara (Nadir) Jacobs, sisters Virginia and Geneva and brothers James, Augustine, Charles and twins William and Wilson. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family.

Father Jacobs retired June 1, 1988, and moved to Loretto. Prior to his retirement, he served as pastor of St. Charles Borromeo Parish in White Sulphur Springs. A native of Montgomery, he attended St. Charles College in Catonsville, MD, and received a bachelor's degree in philosophy and sacred theology from St. Mary's Seminary in Baltimore. He also did advanced studies at Catholic University of America in Washington. Father Jacobs was ordained to the priesthood June 20, 1946.

He served as assistant pastor at St. Theresa Parish in Morgantown from 1946 to 1950 and then served "at Immaculate Conception Parish in Montgomery from 1950 to 1951. He also taught at St. Charles College from 1951 to 1952 and St. Mary's Seminary from 1952 to 1953. He also served as pastor of St. Patrick Parish In Hinton from 1953 to 1956, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish in Logan in 1953, St. Vincent de Paul Parish in New Martinsville from 1956 to 1957, St. Brendan Parish in Elkins from 1957 to 1960, Sacred Heart Parish in Chester from 1960 to 1967; Sacred Heart Parish in Huntington from 1967 to 1974, Assumption Parish in Keyser from 1974 to 1981 and Blessed Trinity Parish in Wheeling from 1981 to 1987.

The Mass of Christian burial was March 10 at the Basilica of St. Michael in Loretto with Bishop Emeritus Bernard W. Schmitt as the celebrant and Bishop James E. Michaels, former auxiliary bishop of Wheeling-Charleston, and priests of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown, PA, as con-celebrants. Committal was in St. Michael's Cemetery in Loretto.

Fr. Bakhos Chidiac, pastor added: Fr. Eugene was of Lebanese origin. He was ordained and served the Roman Catholic churches in West Virginia and Pennsylvania before we had a Maronite bishop in USA. He had affiliation to our church and he made her a beneficiary in his will in the amount of $50,000. May his memory be eternal. Please remember him in your prayers.

Parish Cookbook Re-Printed By popular demand, Our Lady of Lebanon Church Parish Cookbook (with the red cover) has been

reprinted. The book is filled with 155 delicious Lebanese and American recipes from our parishioners, friends and families. Cost is only $12.00. Please call the rectory at 233-1688 to order.

Food Items for Sale $5.00 Olives Kalamata (1 pt.) $3.00 Wheat #1, fine (2 lb.) $7.00 Tahini (1 qt.) $3.00 Wheat #2, medium (2 lb.) $4.00 Pine Nuts (1/4 lb.)

Poor Box Please consider sharing your blessings with the brothers and sisters of Christ who knock at our door

daily. Many people in the area need assistance in many ways. Some are in dire need some are not, but God alone knows what’s in each one’s heart. The Poor Box is located at the rear of the church near the Holy Water font. Fr. Bakhos is using his judgment to help the poor on your behalf and asks each of them to pray for you.


Around Us Slovak Style Luncheon (Sunday, April 20, 11:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. (or until sold out) Where: St. John Parish, 622 Main Street, Rosary Hall, Benwood Cost: Adult $7.00; Child $3.00, (under 3 free)

Bus Trip to Our Lady of Consolation & Bible Museum (Sat., May 17) Who: Join with the Christian Mothers of St. Michael Church What: A 1-day bus trip to the Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation; and a stop and tour of the Bible Museum in Massillon, OH When: Saturday, May 17; leaves St. Michael Church at 7 a.m.; returns at 9 p.m. Cost: $90 (includes mass, Shrine donation, & lunch – dinner cost not included) Info: Call Rosie Kluth at 242-0479; Reservations deadline is April 26

Reflections: Surprise in heaven I dreamed death came the other night; and heaven’s gate swung wide. An angel with halo bright; ushered me inside. And there!!! to my astonishment; stood folks I’d judged and labeled. As “quite unfit,” “of little worth,” and “spiritually disabled.” Indignant words rose to my lips; but never were set free. For every face showed stunned surprise: NOT ONE EXPECTED ME!

Spirituality: God and Pumpkins From one pumpkin to another…

A woman was asked by a coworker, "What is it like to be a Christian?" The coworker replied, "It is like being a pumpkin." God picks you from the patch, brings you in, and

washes all the dirt off of you. Then He cuts off the top and scoops out all the yucky stuff. He removes the seeds of doubt, hate, and greed. Then He carves you a new smiling face and puts His

light inside of you to shine for the world to see."

Wisdom: The Secret of Happiness One day, one friend asked another, "How is it that you are always so happy? You have so much energy,

and you never seem to get down." With her eyes smiling, she said, "I know the Secret!" "What secret is that?" To which she replied, "I'll

tell you all about it, but you have to promise to share the Secret with others." “The Secret is this: I have learned there is little I can do in my life that will make me truly happy. I

must depend on God to make me happy and to meet my needs. When a need arises in my life, I have to trust God to supply according to HIS riches. I have learned most of the time I don't need half of what I think I do. He has never let me down. Since I learned that 'Secret', I am happy."

The questioner's first thought was, "That's too simple!" But upon reflecting over her own life she recalled how she thought a bigger house would make her happy, but it didn't! She thought a better paying job would make her happy, but it hadn't. When did she realize her greatest happiness?

Sitting on the floor with her grandchildren, playing games, eating pizza or reading a story, a simple gift from God.

Now you know it too! We can't depend on people to make us happy. Only GOD in His infinite wisdom can do that. Trust HIM!


Maronites = Catholics of the East East and West (8)

Preserving the Eastern Lumen by Mr. Anthony Cleary, Deputy Principal, St. Sharbel’s College, Sydney Australia

To mark the centenary of Orientalum Dignitas by Pope Leo XIII, Pope John Paul II published the Apostolic Letter Orientale Lumen, in which he declared “we believe that the venerable and ancient tradition of the Eastern Churches is an integral part of the heritage of Christ’s Church, the first need for Catholics is to be familiar with that tradition so as to be nourished by it.”

This affirmation of the “light of the East” reiterated the striking analogy made a decade earlier by Pope John Paul II, when he declared “the Church needs to learn to breathe again with two lungs – its Eastern one and its Western one.”

This call to “respect and fully appreciate the dignity of Eastern Christians, and accept gratefully the spiritual treasures to which the Eastern Catholic Churches are the bearers” is of particular significance to all Maronite Catholics.

Despite ongoing persecution, the Maronites have maintained “fidelity to their own tradition, to which they have borne witness down the centuries with heroism and often by shedding their own blood.” The persecution of the Maronites of Lebanon can be paralleled to that of the Christians of the early Pilgrim Church, and the emigration that has ensued can be aptly described as a “Maronite Expansion.”

In Orientale Lumen, Pope John Paul II acknowledges that “a particular thought goes to the lands of the diaspora where many faithful of the Eastern Churches who have left their countries of origin are living in a mainly Latin environment.”

The Maronite arrived in the United States as early as 1888 and continued to grow steadily throughout the 20th century. One could not help noticing the gold crucifixes around their necks; the statues and pictures that adorned their homes and restaurants; the candles they lit profusely before their favorite shrines; and how they turned family religious occasions, such as baptisms, into prolonged communal celebrations. The Maronites are considered “pioneers of pluralism” who have fought for recognition of the “authentic cultural differences between Catholic groups of differing origins.” They “always preserve their legitimate liturgical rite and their established way of life... if... they have fallen short owing to contingencies of times and persons, they should take steps to return to their ancestral traditions.”

One of the great challenges facing the Maronite Church overseas “at a time when it is increasingly recognized that the right of every people to express themselves according to their own heritage of culture and thought is fundamental” is to bring Maronites to the realization that “Eastern Christians have their own way of perceiving and understanding, and thus an original way of living their relationship with the Savior” rather than falling into a western mindset of the understanding, celebration and practice of faith. This pattern is often referred to as “Latinization,” which is defined as a process “imposed or voluntarily accepted of inserting customs from the Latin Church into Eastern Church Traditions.”

Throughout the period of the Maronite expansion, however, successive Popes have rejected the notion of Latinization and affirmed that the “Churches of the East are worthy of the glory and reverence that they hold throughout the whole of Christendom in virtue of those extremely ancient,” singular memorials that they have bequeathed for us.” In Orientalium Dignitas, Pope Leo XIII emphasized the importance of preserving the Eastern Rites and embracing the rich diversity of their traditions as a vital element of the Universal Catholic Church. In particular “their antiquity is august, it is what gives nobility to the different rites, it is a brilliant jewel for the whole Church, it confirms that God-given unity of the Catholic faith.”

Orientalium Dignitas provides an increased sense and awareness that “to commit oneself to Catholicity is to commit oneself at once to diversity and unity.” Joseph Komonchak in Many Models, One Church pinpoints that “Catholics should be respectful of the views of others because they would appreciate the inability of any single vision of the church to exhaust the riches of its mystery.” Although diversity has been evident within the Church from its inception, it was Vatican II that heralded a new era of openness to a broader, more diversified Catholicism, a point substantiated by Hill, who comments “no longer could the Christian community

2008 Bulletins/Bulletin # 14 10 04.06.2008 Bulletin be seen as Mediterranean or European, but instead, truly Catholic. A diversity of languages, cultures and outlooks marked this assembly, as it marks the Church.”

The notion of embracing diversity, particularly of the Oriental Rites, was clearly articulated in the promulgation by the Second Vatican Council of Orientalium Ecclesiarum, which stated “these individual Churches, whether East or West, although they differ.., in liturgy, ecclesiastical discipline, and spiritual heritage, are, nevertheless, each as much as the others... they are consequently of equal dignity, so that none is superior to the others.”

Maronite Catholics can find a source of wisdom and inspiration in Orientale Lumen, in which Pope John Paul II exhorts all Catholics to be mindful of the fact that the Church’s Catholicity is “expressed not by a single tradition” and urges that “we be granted a full taste of the divinely revealed and undivided heritage of the universal Church which is preserved and grows in the life of the Churches of the East as in those of the West.”

Story: Old Jack The man slowly looked up. This was a woman clearly accustomed to the finer things of life. Her coat

was new. She looked like that she had never missed a meal in her life. His first thought was that she wanted to make fun of him, like so many others had done before.

"Leave me alone," he growled. To his amazement, the woman continued standing. She was smiling -- her even white teeth displayed in dazzling rows.

"Are you hungry?" she asked. "No," he answered sarcastically. "I've just come from dining with the president. Now go away." The

woman's smile became even broader. Suddenly the man felt a gentle hand under his arm. "What are you doing, lady?" the man asked angrily. "I said to leave me alone.”

Just then a policeman came up. "Is there any problem, ma'am?" he asked. "No problem here, officer," the woman answered. "I'm just trying to get this man to his feet. Will you

help me?" The officer scratched his head. "That's old Jack. He's been a fixture around here for a couple of years. What do you want with him?"

"See that cafeteria over there?" she asked. "I'm going to get him something to eat and get him out of the cold for awhile."

"Are you crazy, lady?" the homeless man resisted. "I don't want to go in there!" Then he felt strong hands grab his other arm and lift him up.

"Let me go, officer. I didn't do anything." "This is a good deal for you Jack," the officer answered. "Don't blow it." Finally, and with some difficulty, the woman and the police officer got Jack into the cafeteria and sat him at a table in a remote corner. It was the middle of the morning, so most of the breakfast crowd had already left and the lunch bunch had not yet arrived. The manager strode across the cafeteria and stood by his table.

"What's going on here, officer?" he asked. "What is all this. Is this man in trouble?" "This lady brought this man in here to be fed," the policeman answered. "Not in here!" the manager replied angrily. "Having a person like that here is bad for business." Old

Jack smiled a toothless grin. "See, lady. I told you so. Now if you'll let me go. I didn't want to come here in the first place."

The woman turned to the cafeteria manager and smiled. "Sir, are you familiar with Eddy and Associates, the banking firm down the street?"

"Of course I am," the manager answered impatiently. "They hold their weekly meetings in one of my banquet rooms."

"And do you make a goodly amount of money providing food at these weekly meetings?" "What business is that of yours?" "I, sir, am Penelope Eddy, president and CEO of the company."

"Oh." The woman smiled again. "I thought that might make a difference." She glanced at the cop who was busy stifling a giggle. "Would you like to join us in a cup of coffee and a meal, officer?" "No thanks, ma'am," the officer replied. "I'm on duty." “Then, perhaps, a cup of coffee to go?" "Yes, ma'am. That would be very nice."


The cafeteria manager turned on his heel "I'll get your coffee for you right away, officer." The officer watched him walk away. "You certainly put him in his place," he said. "That was not my intent. Believe it or not, I have a reason for all this." She sat down at the table across from her amazed dinner guest She stared at him intently. "Jack, do you

remember me?" Old Jack searched her face with his old, rheumy eyes. "I think so – I mean you do look familiar." "I'm a little older perhaps," she said. "Maybe I've even filled out more than in my younger days when you worked here, and I came through that very door, cold and hungry." "Ma'am?" the officer said questioningly. He couldn't believe that such a magnificently turned out woman could ever have been hungry. "I was just out of college," the woman began. "I had come to the city looking for a job, but I couldn't find anything. Finally I was down to my last few cents and had been kicked out of my apartment. I walked the streets for days. It was February and I was cold and nearly starving. I saw this place and walked in on the off chance that I could get something to eat."

Jack lit up with a smile. "Now I remember," he said. "I was behind the serving counter. You came up and asked me if you could work for something to eat. I said that it was against company policy." "I know," the woman continued. "Then you made me the biggest roast beef sandwich that I had ever seen, gave me a cup of coffee, and told me to go over to a corner table and enjoy it. I was afraid that you would get into trouble. Then, when I looked over, I saw you put the price of my food in the cash register I knew then that everything would be all right."

"So you started your own business?" Old Jack said. "I got a job that very afternoon. I worked my way up. Eventually I started my own business, that, with

the help of God, prospered." She opened her purse and pulled out a business card. "When you are finished here, I want you to pay a visit to a Mr. Lyons. He's the personnel director of my company. I'll go talk to him now and I'm certain he'll find something for you to do around the office." She smiled. "I think he might even find the funds to give you a little advance so that you can buy some clothes and get a place to live until you get on your feet. If you ever need anything, my door is always opened to you."

There were tears in the old man's eyes. "How can I ever thank you?" he said. "Don't thank me," the woman answered. "To God goes the glory. Thank Jesus. He led me to you." Outside the cafeteria, the officer and the woman paused at the entrance before going their separate ways.

"Thank you for all your help, officer," she said. "On the contrary, Ms. Eddy," he answered. "Thank you. I saw a miracle today, something that I will

never forget. And ... And thank you for the coffee."

Pro-Life: Death and Decision “Any country that accepts abortion is not teaching its people love, but to use violence to get what they

want. This is why the greatest destroyer of love and peace is abortion.” Mother Teresa to the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., February 3, 1994. In October 1999, the world’s population reached 6 billion. The United Nations estimates that population is increasing annually by more than 90 million. Though often presented as a medical necessity to preserve the life or health of the mother, abortion is the primary means used to control the world’s population growth. There are over 50 million abortions performed worldwide each year. In order to achieve this large number, 4,000 babies in the United States must be aborted every day at a rate of 1 child every 20 seconds! The overwhelming majority of all abortions (95%) are performed as birth control. Only 1% are done because of rape or incest and 1% because of fetal abnormalities. A mere 3% are performed because of maternal health problems. This is an essay about the choices that people make. The cases presented here represent different responses to a variety of problems, all of which present abortion as one of the available options. Since 1973, over 40 million abortions have been recorded in the United States. Over the last five years, the Center for Disease Control has recorded between 1.3 and 1.4 million each year. Some of the cases that follow made a contribution to that number; other chose to do so.


A Time to Laugh (129) Dialing 911 Man: A man frantically calls 911 and says, "help...my wife has gone into labor and her contractions are 10 minutes apart." 911: "Is this her first child?" Man: "Of course not, you idiot...this is her husband."

The Cowboy A cowboy rode into town and stopped at a saloon for a drink. Unfortunately, the locals always had a

habit of picking on strangers, which he was. When he finished his drink, he found his horse had been stolen. He goes back into the bar, handily flips his gun into the air, catches it above his head without even looking and fires a shot into the ceiling.

“Which one of you sidewinders stole my hoss?” He yelled with surprising forcefulness. No one answered. “Alright, I’m gonna have another beer, and if my hoss ain’t back outside by the time I finnish, I’m gonna do what I dun in Texas and I don’t like to have to do what I dun in Texas.”

Some of the locals shifted restlessly. He had another beer, walked outside, and his horse is back. The bartender wanders out of the bar and asks, “Say partner, before you go... what happened in Texas?”

The cowboy turned back and said, “I had to walk home.”

Shingles Bubba walked into a doctor's office and the receptionist asked him what he had. Bubba said:

"Shingles." So she wrote down his name, address, medical insurance number and told him to have a seat. Fifteen minutes later a nurse's aide came out and asked Bubba what he had. Bubba said, "Shingles." So she wrote down his height, weight, a complete medical history and told Bubba to wait in the examining room.

A half hour later a nurse came in and asked Bubba what he had. Bubba said, "Shingles." So the nurse gave Bubba a blood test, a blood pressure test, an electrocardiogram and told Bubba to take off all his clothes and wait for the doctor. An hour later the doctor came in and found Bubba sitting patiently in the nude and asked Bubba what he had. Bubba said, "Shingles." The doctor examined him, found no rash and so he asked, "Where?"

Bubba said, "Outside on the truck. Where do you want me to unload 'em??" An Old American In France

A group of Americans, retired teachers, recently went to France on a tour. Robert Whiting, an elderly gentleman of 83, arrived in Paris by plane. At French Customs, he took a few minutes to locate his passport in his carry on. "You have been to France before, monsieur?" the customs officer asked sarcastically. Mr. Whiting admitted that he had been to France previously.

"Then you should know enough to have your passport ready." The American said, "The last time I was here, I didn't have to show it." "Impossible. Americans always have to show your passports on arrival in France!" The American senior gave the Frenchman a long hard look. Then he quietly explained. "Well, when I

came ashore at Omaha Beach on D-Day in '44 to help liberate this country, I couldn't find any Frenchmen to show it to."

Too Many Barking Dogs An apartment manager was showing a prospective tenant an apartment. The prospective tenant asked,

"Are there any barking dogs in the adjoining apartments?" The manager assured her, "Oh no! I would never allow such a thing." The relieved woman sighed, "That's good, because I have two barking dogs of my own, and I don't think I

could stand to hear any others."

April 6, 2008 Bulletin # 14 Our Lady of Lebanon Church · 06/04/2008 · 2008 Bulletins/Bulletin # 14 1 04.06.2008 Bulletin April 6, 2008 Bulletin # 14 Our Lady of Lebanon Church

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