2012 pittsburgh catholic excellence in education magazine

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EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION MAGAZINE

PITTSBURGH

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2012 FallEventsguide

PLUSFall EventsSupplement

2 Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine Excellence In Education 2012

800.456.0590www.duq.edu/success

Find out why so many Pittsburgh students and their families have made Duquesne their topchoice for higher education.

ExpEriEncE TradiTion.ExpEcT SuccESS.

10 Schools of Study | Over 100 Undergraduate Programs75 Graduate and Professional Programs

Excellence In Education 2012 Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine 3

6 | 184 years and going strong:The Diocese of Pittsburgh has operated faith-based, academically excellent Catholic schools since 1828.

8-9 | From one solid tradition to another:Traditional Catholic schools nurture and develop the “whole” person spiritually, intellectually and physically.

10 | Reflections of a principal of a merged school:A reflection on the merger of two South Hills schools a few years after coming together.

12-13 | A tool for evangelization:Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is one good method of passing on the faith.

14 | Teaching CCD is very rewarding:A second-grade cathechist gets back twice as much as she gives.

16-17 | Sports and cardinal virtues:The virtues are perfect to practice in the sports arena.

18-19 | Our schools, our legacy:A compilation of photos of diocesan sporting events throughout the years.

21-36| Fall Events Guide:A plethora of events and special features in southwestern Pennsylvania.

37 | Catholic secondary education makes real difference:A long tradition of almost all graduates from diocesan high schools going on to college continues.

38 | Catholic education alive and well in South Pittsburgh:Brookline Regional Catholic School has students from 14 parishes and seven school districts.

Inside this issue:16pg 18pg 28pg

6pg


41 | Come to the edge:An inspirational message from Golden Apple Award winner DeAnna Kwiecinski.

42 | Seminarians have doubled under Bishop Zubik:More men are entering St. Paul Seminary to discern if God is calling them to be priests.

43 | Challenges to Catholic higher education:Catholic universities and colleges heed Christ’s charge to teach all nations and those who most need to learn.

44-45 | Future of Catholic higher education:Catholic colleges and universities must distinguish themselves by providing students with an education rooted in Gospel values that are critical to our world.

46 | Mission and affordability:The future of Catholic higher education will be shaped by the character of the responses by colleges and universities to two general challenges.

49, 51 | Teachers on teachers:Educators write about people who have influenced them to pursue a teaching vocation.

53 | Prayer of a studentA prayer for a student to pray while in school.

135 First Ave. • Suite 200Pittsburgh, PA 15222

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Vol. 4, No. 6

Publisher | Bishop David A. Zubik

General Manager | Robert P. Lockwood

Editor | William Cone

Operations Manager | Carmella Weismantle

Excellence In Education Project EditorChuck Moody

Associate EditorsPhil Taylor (Special Projects)

Chuck Moody (News)

Senior Staff Writer | Patricia Bartos

Staff Writer | John W. Franko

Graphic DesignersDavid Pagesh | Karen Hanlin

Director of Advertising | John Connolly

Account ExecutivesMichael A. Check | Paul Crowe

Brandon McCusker | Michael Wire

Circulation Mgr./Parish News Coord.Peggy Zezza

Administrative Assistant | Amanda Wahlen

Office Assistant | Karen Hanlin

Pittsburgh Catholic Excellence In Education Magazine is a complimentary publication available at all 204 Catholic parishes in the Diocese of Pittsburgh from the Pittsburgh Catholic Publishing Associates, Inc. Paid first-class delivered subscriptions are available.

Advertising: [email protected] Editorial: [email protected]

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Education as a Human Right

Education has been regarded in all societies and throughout

human history both as an end in itself and as a means for the

individual and society to grow. Its recognition as a human right is

de rived from the indispensability of education to the preservation

and enhancement of the in herent dignity of the human person.

Cover design by Debbie Skatell-Wehner

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ol ic.org

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PLUSFall Events

Supplement

On the cover...

41pg


October 14, 2012

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Dr. Paserba meets children at one of the many diocesan elementary schools.

By DR. ROBERT L. PASERBA

The Diocese of Pittsburgh has operated faith-based, academically excellent Catholic schools in western Pennsylvania since 1828.

Rooted in the educational experiences for all children attending the Catholic preschools and elementary and secondary Catholic schools for the past 184 years is the belief that all children are made in the image of Christ and that they are to be nurtured spiritually, academically, socially, emotionally and physically. To this end, the schools have maintained rigorous standards of excellence in all of these domains as they have provided education for thousands upon thousands of children.

Now that the 21st century is well under way, it is worthwhile to look at where our Catholic schools are relative to the continuation of these rigorous standards of excellence. To assist with this study and analysis, the National Catholic School Standards Project is an excellent starting point.

Introduced at Loyola University of Chicago in March 2012, the Standards Project contains nine defining

184 years old and going strong

characteristics of excellent Catholic schools, along with 13 standards and more than 70 benchmarks for measuring excellence. Together, these characteristics, standards and benchmarks define what it means to be a Catholic school and how the most mission-driven, program-effective, well-managed and responsibly governed Catholic schools should operate.

The Catholic schools in the Diocese of Pittsburgh have joined in analyzing its schools and in exchanging information with internal and external constituencies in regards to the working platform established for the National Standards and Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools. The conversations, analysis and dialogue are occurring within and between schools and as an integral part of each school’s participation in the accreditation and re-accreditation process with the Middle States Association for Colleges and Schools. One specific example will help to explain.

Standard No. 7, for example, states that “An excellent Catholic school has a clearly articulated, rigorous curriculum aligned with relevant standards, 21st century skills and Gospel values, implemented through effective instruction.” To this end,

the curriculum in the diocesan Catholic schools adhere to Pennsylvania and national standards and to content-specific standards such as are defined for English, mathematics and science. Curriculum and instruction for 21st century learning provide students with the knowledge, understanding and skills to become creative, reflective, literate, critical and moral evaluators, problem solvers, decision makers, and socially responsible citizens.

In the Catholic schools of the Diocese of Pittsburgh, however, we expect more from our students. We strive to develop higher standards in all aspects of education. We create a culture of learning whereby we impact body and spirit, mind and attitude, and we impact every student at every level. In our Catholic schools, “no child is left behind,” which has been our operating principle for almost two centuries.

The National Catholic Educational Association has chosen the theme for the 2012-13 academic year as “Catholic Schools Raise the Standards.” It is in the broadest application of this concept of “standards” that we get to the heart of Catholic education.

Paserba is diocesan secretary for Catholic education and evangelization.


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By KIMBERLY MINICK

I am starting my 24th year in a Catholic high school and have served the past 14 school years in administration. My first 22 years were at Mount Alvernia High School, an all-girls school that was owned and operated by the Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities on a 13-acre Campus in Millvale. Mount Alvernia was rich in tradition operating for 75 years until its closure in June 2011 due to a declining enrollment.

In July 2011, I was blessed and newly hired as the assistant principal of St.

From one solid tradition to another

Joseph High School located in the heart of the business and residential community in Natrona Heights. St. Joseph High School is a co-ed, parish high school that has been educating students since 1915 and currently serves over 200 families.

There are the obvious, distinct and unique characteristics between Mount Alvernia and St. Joseph high schools; each has its history that tells it own implicit story. However, through my experience I found there are many commonalities that exist as I move from one traditional school setting into another.

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day, dances, prom, yearbook signings, awards banquets, athletic programs, Catholic Schools Week celebrations and graduation like most Catholic high schools, yet distinct with characteristics and nuances that reflect the spirit of St. Joseph.

In Catholic education, there is a culture and an identity that is distinctly religious. The Catholic identities of schools are reflected through the founders, parishes, religious congregations, and, for some, a blending through mergers. The identity of

a school is not taken for granted; it is worked at, nourished, engaged

by the students, the faculty and the community.

In traditional Catholic schools, we nurture and develop the “whole“ person spiritually, intellectually and physically. A partnership of commitment and dedication between parents and teachers, teachers and students, and school and community

are key. Prayer and spirituality are the

essence and moral fiber of our Catholic schools, the common

denominator, so to speak.

Intraditional

Catholic schools, we nurture and

develop the “whole” person spiritually, intellectually and

physically.

My goals as an educator and administrator remain the same and that I commit myself to giving the very best I have for the St. Joseph High School community. I continually challenge myself as well to grow, and place high expectations on students, both academically and spiritually. I feel extremely blessed to have the privilege of working alongside knowledgeable and faith-filled parents, staff and faculty who hold high expectations and continue to raise the bar for students and themselves. I pray that each person who enters our doors recognizes that our school is an extension of our Catholic Church, a place to be highly revered and cherished.

Minick is assistant principal of St. Joseph High School in Natrona Heights.


Reflections of a principal of a merged schoolBy LINDA M. BECHTOL

St. Katharine Drexel School was established in 2008 as a merger of St. Germaine School in Bethel Park, which opened on Sept. 1, 1959, and Nativity School in South Park Township, established on Sept. 5, 1961.

Over the years, new programs were added to the curriculum, including preschool and kindergarten. Both schools also added a computer lab, library and science lab. St. Germaine and Nativity schools thrived and grew for many years, each providing a quality education with the finest spiritual and moral values. However, with the downturn in the economy and fewer children from which to draw, a task

force was established to consider a merger. On March 5, 2008, Bishop David Zubik approved the merger of St. Germaine and Nativity schools, effective for the 2008-2009 school year. St. Katharine Drexel is located on the grounds of St. Germaine Parish and utilizes the gym at Nativity Parish for its sports program and other activities.

Patricia Bibro was appointed the first principal of St. Katharine Drexel. She combined the strong academic and spiritual programs from both schools, providing the children with the quality education their families had come to expect. Both

St. Germaine and Nativity schools had wonderful reputations and this has continued. In 2010, Bibro decided to retire, and I was honored to be hired to replace her.

Coming to a merged school after it had been open for two years provided a school that had created a strong identity in the South Hills. St. Katharine Drexel was known for its excellent academic program and, of course, its fine sports program. The teachers, staff and community made me feel very welcome and included.

One of my first and most enjoyable tasks was to be at the St. Katharine Drexel FunFair, which takes place every August.

This gave me an opportunity to meet most of the students and their families. The parishioners of St. Germaine, who are great supporters of the school and the FunFair, also sought me out and made me feel a part of their spiritual community. Both Father John Baver, St. Germaine pastor, and Father John Hissrich, Nativity pastor, made sure that I was introduced to many of the parishioners from both parishes.

St. Katharine Drexel has faculty and staff who go far beyond what is expected of them, from working with students to the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science, where our students are extremely

successful, to after school clubs and quarterly “family fun nights.” They made my transition into the school community seamless. They helped to guide me in knowing and understanding the children and their needs.

No principal could be blessed with a better faculty than the one here at our school. They are dedicated to the children and to fostering the Gospel values.

Our school motto is “Enhancing the World through Christian and Social Values.” The students are constantly working to better their school, communities, nation and the world. Each quarter there are service projects for our fifth- through eighth-graders, which include visiting a nursing home, senior citizens, a preschool, or opening our computer lab for parishioners and the community to come in and learn the basics. When our students leave St. Katharine Drexel, they are, of course, academically well-prepared to go on to high school. However, our hope is that they are also well-prepared to become productive members of society.

My first two years at St. Katharine Drexel have been extremely fulfilling, and I feel very blessed to be a part of this school community. I look forward to many more years here.

Bechtol is principal of St. Katharine Drexel School in Bethel Park.


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During this Year of Faith, the U.S. bishops are asking catechists to be “agents of the new evangelization.” A question that often arises is how best to pass on the faith.

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, religious education that uses the “hands-on” methods of Italian educator Maria Montessori, is being used in about 10 parishes in the Pittsburgh Diocese. St. John Neumann in Franklin Park is beginning its 17th year with CGS this fall. CGS allows children and catechists to ponder together the great mystery of God revealed in Scripture and

Some children respond to

the presentation with artwork, often connecting ideas in ways that have not been “taught.”

liturgy, and in the process to fall in love with Jesus.

Weekly sessions are offered beginning at age 3, a time of great spiritual openness. Children come to know Jesus through Bible narratives of his birth, death and resurrection; geography of the Holy Land; prophecies; parables; the Mass and sacraments.

After each presentation the catechist

asks “wondering questions” that lead to meditation on the mystery: “I wonder why God chose a small place like Bethlehem for the King of Kings to be born.” “I wonder what the treasure was that the man found in the field. Why would Jesus say the kingdom of God is like that treasure?” “How do the Good Shepherd’s sheep feel about the shepherd? How does he feel about them?”

After this meditation the children respond with spontaneous prayer, song or sometimes silence. Often they say, “Thank you, Jesus,” or “I love you, Jesus.”

The children have an opportunity to work silently and reverently with small models of what has been presented. Some children respond to the presentation with artwork, often connecting ideas in ways that have not been “taught.”

By age 7, when they are at the developmental stage of conscience formation, they are willing to accept

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd: A tool for evangelizationBy BARBARA MATERA


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the moral imperatives that go along with being Jesus’ disciple. They know and love the Good Shepherd, and want to be part of his kingdom. They also learn that this kingdom has a history marked by three great moments — creation, redemption and parousia. The children work with a small model of the Bible envisioned as a library of books. They study the most important prayers and gestures of the Mass.

From fourth through sixth grade, the children ponder the plan of God and their place in it. They examine the prayers of the Roman Missal, the structure of the Mass, the virtues, the miracles of Jesus, and the relationship between the Old and New Testaments.

CGS has been correlated to the Diocese of Pittsburgh curriculum guidelines for preschool through Grade 6. Children in CGS also receive an approved textbook to work on at home.

Good Shepherd catechists participate in the “pillars” courses offered by the diocese: Creed, sacraments and morality. They attain basic certification without taking the methods course since the methods used are covered in CGS formation courses. These courses, which teach both theology and the methodology of CGS, are required before a catechist can work with children.

One of the best outcomes of CGS is the response of catechists who have taken the formation course and worked with children using this method. The children’s joy in the Lord is infectious, and catechists find their own spiritual life invigorated.

The church has long taught that the “aim of catechesis is to put people not only in touch, but in communion, in intimacy with Jesus Christ” (“Catechesi Tradendae,” No. 19). As CGS spreads, countless children and adults are experiencing covenant

love through their relationship with the Good Shepherd. They gradually become accustomed to his voice, until they know it well and follow no other.

Matera is director for religious education, Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, at St. John Neumann Parish in Franklin Park.


By YVONNE COSTANZO

If asked why I started teaching Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, or CCD, 27 years ago, I would have to say it was through the Holy Spirit and a convincing director of religious education.

It was summer of 1985, and I was laid off from my job for a few months. I took this opportunity to become more involved at St. Pius X School, where my children attended. I had mentioned to a friend that I considered teaching CCD, but I was afraid someone would ask me something I could not answer. Tisha Bridges, St. Pius’ X DRE at the time, called me, we met and she eased all my fears. Tisha urged me to attend classes in the fall for the first part of my certification. I could not have asked for a better DRE and mentor than Tisha. She has had a tremendous influence on me.

I taught fourth grade for several years until in 1997, Father Thomas Marpes, the late pastor of St. Pius X, asked me to teach

Teaching CCD is very rewardingsecond grade. I must admit, I was nervous about taking this step. This is the year these little children receive Jesus in the Eucharist for the first time. This is the year they receive the sacrament of penance for the first time. I felt this was an awesome responsibility but one I embraced.

It might be a challenge getting these little ones to remember the Act of Contrition and what to say in the confessional, but if I can get them to remember God’s mercy and forgiveness, then maybe they will keep going to confession in years to come. Then the big day comes when these little 7- and 8-year-olds will receive Jesus for the first time in holy Communion. This is my reward, seeing these children receive holy Communion not only for the first time, but time after time after time. It humbles me to think that the Holy Spirit is working through me to bring these children to the altar.

Twice I was blessed to have two of my former students, Jeff Smee and Jim McGrory, volunteer to help me as a teacher’s aide.

Both boys helped me with the second grade throughout all four years of high school.

A few years back, I thought I should “retire,” so I spent a year just substituting. The year after, we were short several teachers. I went back. This time I taught fifth grade for two years and then back to second grade, where I still remain. I guess my time to “retire” was not God’s time for me to retire.

I love the children. I love teaching the children about God. I love learning about God. Since 1985, when Tisha included me in the CCD staff, I have been taking classes just about every year. We should never stop learning about God.

When I prepare a lesson and teach a class, my faith is strengthened. It reminds me of how I should be as a Christian, how I should treat others, how I should treat God. We all need to be reminded.

This is my reward. I get back twice as much as I give. God is very generous.

“Onnie” Costanzo teaches second grade CCD at St. Pius X Parish in Pittsburgh’s Brookline neighborhood. She resides in Dormont.

Excellence In Education 2012 Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine 15Guide to Senior Services 2012 Pittsburgh Catholic 5


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Sports and thecardinal virtues

By DR. RONALD BOWES

Do you remember learning about the cardinal virtues? Prudence, justice, fortitude and temperance adopted by St. Ambrose, St. Augustine of Hippo, and of course, St. Thomas Aquinas.

These virtues are absolutely perfect to practice in the sports arena, and the Diocese of Pittsburgh is using the Play Like A Champion Today program out of the University of Notre Dame to train all our elementary school coaches in these virtues. Catholic schools are synonymous with excellence, and this attention to quality also applies to all of our extracurricular activities including sports.

If we are prudent in our Catholic school sports, then our actions are appropriate to the given time. If we are prudent, we make good decisions. PLC reminds our coaches,


players and fans to make good decisions. For example, if you know that helping a fallen opponent up is the right thing to do, you will do it automatically.

Justice is applied to the Catholic school sports program with regard to the concept of good sportsmanship. Treating others as you would want to be treated. Respect for the other team, the opposing coaches, the officials and everyone involved in the competition.

Fortitude refers to courage and bravery. This means that the coaches, players, fans and officials stand strong for what is right by pursuing good goals. Winning obviously is one goal, but it must be done right. Winning at any cost diminishes the value of victory and makes it ring hollow.

And finally, temperance refers to keeping sports activities in perspective, maintaining control and leading a balanced life. We can see around the nation the damage done when sports become the most important thing. In a school setting, it can destroy the entire school culture.

These cardinal virtues are the mark of a champion and also demonstrate excellence in a school sports program. All of our

Catholic schools have embraced this PLC concept and are centering their sports around these principles.

Catholic high school sports programs have always been nationally renowned. They are successful, not because they draw from a wider geographical area; this makes little sense when you see the success and quality in our Catholic elementary schools, which are from limited areas. They are successful because they are disciplined, dedicated, stable, held to a higher standard and promote the cardinal virtues.

All of our Catholic elementary, high school and CYM coaches must become

accredited through the PLC program. This research-based, student-centered approach to coaching trains coaches to be effective ministers to their student athletes. The Play Like A Champion program does a fabulous job of elevating the culture of sports in a school setting. It emphasizes all the important things in the life of a Christian and builds character in the young people under the PLC trained coaches care. With an emphasis on good sportsmanship, cooperation, teamwork, respect and care for the individual, our coaches and student athletes are true champions. It is our goal that our sports programs support and reinforce the Catholic mission of nurturing the whole person to become a productive and moral leader in the 21st century.

Bowes is assistant superintendent for public policy and development with the diocesan Department for Catholic Schools.

If we are prudent in our Catholic school

sports, then our actions are appropriate to the given time


Sports through timePhotos courtesy of Diocesan Archives and Record Center

Our Schools,Our Legacy

1

7

2


1. Sand volleyball tournament at Quigley High School, Sept. 1993, Jeff Sassic, Steph Taylor and Ed Cipriani.

2. Word of God Wildcats cross country team at Frick Park bowling greens, from left, Kevin May, Seth Kaplan, Burris Esplen and Simon Sabol, 2012.

3. Father Hugh Boyle with the boys’ baseball team, sometime between 1910 and 1920.

4. St. Francis Academy cheerleaders, 1979.

5. St. Paul Orphanage football team, between 1941 and 1943.

6. Bishop’s Latin School basketball team, undated.

7. St. Stephen School. Hazelwood, circa 1970.

3 4

5

6


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22 Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine Fall Events 2012

Mon Yough Catholic School

Where The Present Meets The FutureMon Yough Catholic School is a Catholicparish elementary school founded in 2012,as a merger between St. Joseph's RegionalCatholic School, established in 1984 and

St. Angela Merici School, established in 1961with educational programs for childrenfrom pre-school through eighth grade.

Our first year and we're growing!For information call 412.672.2360

1640 Fawcett Avenue – White Oak, PA

SEPTEMBER22 | Wine tasting6:30 p.m., Bergman Events Center of St.

Gregory Parish, 2 W. Beaver St., Zelienople. Cost is $15, and includes wine, hor d’oeuvres, coffee and punch. Also featuring gifts baskets and raffle. For tickets, call parish office at 724-452-7245.

Social eventSfestivals, dinners and craft showsscheduled throughout the Diocese of Pittsburgh during the autumn months are listed below.

23 | Roast pork dinner1-6 p.m., St. Januarius Parish, 1450

Renton Road, Plum Borough. Highlights include basket auction, bingo, bake sale and more. Cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children 12 and under. For takeout, call 412-793-9788.

24 | Scott Lang Memorial Golf ClassicRegistration at 10 a.m., Wildwood Golf

Club in Allison Park. Green fees, carts, gifts, contests, prizes, cookout lunch and reception and awards are included. Proceeds benefit La Roche College’s athletic programs. To register, call Bobbi Kress LaPlace at 412-536-1087.

25 | Concert, “Voices Carry”6:30-10:30 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 p.m.),

Stage AE on Pittsburgh’s North Side. List of confirmed performers include: Donnie Iris, Adam Brock (from “American Idol”); Johnny Angel; Sputzy; B.E. Taylor; Etta Cox; Joe Grushecky; Vanessa Campagna; Chris Highbee and more. Cost is $40 for general admission and $175 for VIP seating. Proceeds benefit the at-risk children and families of Auberle. For tickets, call 412-673-5856, ext. 1315, or visit www.auberle.org/voices-carry.

27 | Tom Franzak concert7 p.m., St. Joseph Parish, 1304 Fourth Ave.,

Coraopolis. Franzak is a published composer and recording artist. Concert is held in conclusion of the parish mission. Free-will offering accepted. For information, visit www.saintjosephparish.net, or call 412-264-6162.

28 | Fund-raising gala,“Young at Heart”

Starting with cocktails at 6 p.m., followed by dinner, Allegheny Country Club in Sewickley. B.E. Taylor is featured entertainer. Cost is $125, or $1,000 for a table of eight. The proceeds benefit the Music Therapy and Benevolent Care Fund of Villa St. Joseph, a residential nursing care facility founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph. For information and tickets, call Ray Niedenberger at 724-869-6321.

29 | Craft and vendor show10 a.m.-3 p.m., Holy Child School gym,

212 Station St., Bridgeville. Featuring many new crafters and vendors. Chinese auction drawing at 2:30 p.m.

Fall Events 2012 Pittsburgh Catholic Magazine 23

Angel Harvest Vegetable and

Potato Soup

29-30 | Parish festival, “Festa Italia”Come Back to the Old Country, Sept. 29-30th, noon-9 p.m. (noon-7 p.m. on Sept. 30), St. Michael

Parish, 432 Center Ave. in Butler. Highlights include Italian Village Shops, bakery, ice cream parlor, rosary makers, youth activities, face painting, used book shop, theme basket raffle, wine tasting. People’s Choice contest and more. An a la carte menu on Saturday includes: soups (wedding, chicken pastina, pasta e fagoli), salad, rice balls, lasagna, stuffed shells, Italian beans and greens, meatballs, hot sausage, panini sandwiches, pizza, Italian Love cake and more. Sunday features a spaghetti and meatball dinner, with salad, bread, dessert and beverages for $8.50 for adults, $4 for children. Entertainment schedule: Saturday, Sept. 29, 1-4 p.m., Frank Palombi band; Saturday, Sept. 29, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Mirella the Musician; Sunday, Sept. 30, 1-4:30 p.m., John Gabrielle on accordion.

OCTOBER2 | Free bus tripWorld War II National Memorial in Washing-

ton, D.C., for WWII veterans, 6 a.m.-9 p.m. Bus departs from the following locations: Coraopolis, Ross Park Mall, Monroeville, Green Tree and Beaver. The bus trip is free for veterans, with donations accepted. Boxed lunches, dinners and beverages are provided. For information, call 724-709-3614.

4-6 | Nationality festival4-10 p.m. Thursday, 4-11 p.m. Friday, 2-6 p.m.

Saturday, St. Malachy Parish, 343 Forest Grove Road, Kennedy Township. Featuring a large variety of nationality food booths, including German, Italian, French, Mexican, Slovak and American, in addition to gyros, pierogie kitchen and cookie patch. Also includes, raffles, instant bingo and more.

6 | Diocesan pilgrimageJoin Bishop David Zubik on a trip to the

Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. The pilgrimage offers an opportunity to celebrate the beginning of The Year of Faith. Bishop Zubik will be the main celebrant at the Mass. For bus reservations, call 412-462-8161, or refer to www.diopitt.org.

6 | Oktoberfest6-9 p.m., Family Life Center of St. Thomas

More Parish, 126 Fort Couch Road, Bethel Park. Includes roast pork, mashed potatoes, sauer-kraut, red cabbage, applesauce and a beverage. Tickets are $9 for adults, $5 for children. Also featuring live German entertainment. For information, call 412-833-0031.

6 | Oktoberfest7-11 p.m., Henniger Auditorium on the campus

of St. Teresa of Avila Parish, 1000 Avila Court, Perrysville. Featuring German buffet dinner that includes sauerbraten, bratwurst, potato pancakes, German potato salad, red cabbage, sauerkraut, spattle and two imported beers. In addition to dinner, there will also be entertainment and dancing to the “Mad Bavarian.” Fun-filled Oktoberfest toasts, door prizes and Chinese auction are also planned. Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. Cost is $27.50 per person. For tickets, call Dan Ostronic at 412-366-8760.

6-7 | Harvest DaysNoon-5 p.m., Villa Maria Community

Center, 288 Villa Drive, Villa Maria. Includes fun for the entire family, with arts and crafts and vendors. Music includes a performance by the folk/bluegrass band Rising Regina. For information, visit www.humilityofmary.org or www.villaprograms.org Continued on page 24

Submitted by Anna Todd St. Patrick Parish in McKeesport

Ingredients: 4 cups cubed potatoes (do not peel)1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped carrots1 cup coarsely chopped celery1/2 cup string beans 1 green, red or yellow bell pepper coarsely chopped1 cup sweet peas 1 large onion, peeled and coarsely chopped1 (10 ounce) bag spinach6 cups water1/4 cup butter1 1/2 tsp. salt1 tsp. black pepper1 1/2 tsps. sage1 tablespoon dried basil1/4 cup chopped parsley

Directions: Place vegetables in a Dutch oven. Add water, bring to a boil. Add butter, salt, pepper and herbs. Simmer until vegetables are tender (about 30 minutes). Serves 10 people.

Note: This soup freezes very well.


7 | Craft/vendor showArchangel Hall of St. Michael Parish, 101

McLay Drive, Elizabeth. Sponsored by Christian Mothers. Admission is $1.

10 | Soup takeout3-6 p.m., motherhouse of the Sisters of

St. Francis of the Providence of God, 3603 McRoberts Road, Whitehall. Soup choice: wedding, acorn squash and haluski. Cost is $5 a quart, and includes 2 rolls. To place an order, call 412-885-7232 by Thursday, Oct. 4.

11-14 | Parish festival5-10 p.m. (noon-5 p.m. on Sunday), St. Bar-

tholomew Parish campus, 111 Erhard Drive, Penn Hills. Includes rides, games, variety of food and more. For more information, call 412-242-3374.

12-13 | OktoberfestFriday evening and all day Saturday, St.

Peter Parish Center, 342 Normal Ave., Slippery Rock. Featuring German food and biegarten, festival Mass with polka music, children’s games, cash raffle, gift basket raffles, dancing, bingo and blue grass band. Dinner and an ala carte menu available. Visit www.rockcatholic.org.

13 | Craft fair9 a.m.-3 p.m., gym of St. Thomas More Parish,

126 Fort Couch Road, Bethel Park. For informa-tion, call 412-833-5995.

13 | Flea market with lunch and bake sale9 a.m.-2 p.m., Father Conner Hall of Ascension

Parish, 114 Berry St., Ingram. For information, call parish at 412-921-1230.

13 | TeaNoon-3 p.m., Activity Building of All Saints

Parish, 19 Dewey St., Etna. Menu includes

tea sandwiches, cookies and a beverage. Also featuring specialty basket raffle. Pianist Craig Zinger, who performs a mix of original parodies, including “Pierogie Polka,” will provide entertain-ment. Cost is $10. For tickets, call 412-781-4788.

13 | Oktoberfest dinner and flea market3-7 p.m., social hall and grounds of

St. Christopher Parish, 229 N. Franklin St., Prospect. Menu features roast pork, kielbasa, sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, potato pancakes, corn, homemade applesauce, desserts and more. Cost is $9.50 for adults, $5 for children 6-12 and free for children 5 and under.

13 | Oktoberfest (German food festival)3-9 p.m., school hall of Most Holy Name

Parish, 1515 Tinsbury St., Pittsburgh’s Troy Hill neighborhood. Featuring homemade German dinner and an a la carte menu filled with authentic German food. German and craft beers will be available. Entertainment includes GTEVD’Lustigen Isartaler Bavarian Club Dancers and Helen Matlack on the button box accordion. For information, call 412-231-2994.

13 | Oktoberfest (pork roast dinner)3-7 p.m., St. Norbert Parish, 2413 St. Norbert

St., Overbrook. Menu includes pork roast or hot dog, sauerkraut, red cabbage, mashed potatoes and gravy, applesauce and more. Also featuring live entertainment with a German band. Cost is $9 for adults, $5 for children under 12.

14 | Fall brunch10 a.m.-2 p.m., St. John Vianney Parish, 823

Climax St., Pittsburgh’s Hilltop neighborhood. Menu includes eggs, sausage, French toast, pasta and more. Cost is $10 in advance, $12 at the door. For information, call 412-381-8300.

14 | Potluck dinner and harvest party12:30 p.m., church basement, St. Joseph

the Worker Parish, 1111 S. Cascade St., New Castle. This event will kick off the parish’s 125th yearlong anniversary celebration.

14 | Autumn tea party2-4 p.m., Guardian Angels Parish Center, 1000

Logue St., Pittsburgh’s West End. Guests are encouraged to create a hat to wear, with the best hat creations to be awarded a prize. Guests are also asked to bring their own teacup. Also featuring a Chinese auction. Cost is $10. For reservations, call Barbara at 412-922-2743.

18 | Marriage enrichment dinner7 p.m., Gilmary Retreat Center, 601 Flaugherty

Run Road, Findlay Township. The program begins with a six-course dinner, followed by talk by Jen-nifer and Thomas Gilbert. Cost is $25, with special rates for couples married five years or less, and for engaged couples. To register, call 412-264-8400.

Continued from Page 23

Social events festivals, dinners and craft shows


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Ceregis 18 | Dinner dance“Ressi Rocks,” gymnasium of Resurrection

Parish, 1100 Creedmoor Ave., Pittsburgh’s Brookline neighborhood. Entertainment provided by Johnny Angel and the Halos. Tickets are $45. For tickets, call 412-563-4400.

19 | St. Anthony ProgramsOpportunities Dinner

5:30 p.m., East Club Lounge at Heinz Field on Pittsburgh’s North Side. For information, call 724-940-9020.

21 | Celebrate Life Luncheon11 a.m.-2 p.m., South Hills Country Club, 4305

Brownsville Road, Brentwood. Sponsored by People Concerned for the Unborn Child. Keynote speaker is Capuchin Father Scott Seethaler. Cost is $35. Send payment and check to PCUC, 3050 Pioneer Ave., Pittsburgh, Pa. 15226. Deadline is Oct. 15.

27 | Lunch and card partyNoon-3 p.m., Parish Center of St. John Vianney

Parish, 823 Climax St. in Pittsburgh’s Hilltop neighborhood. Cost is $12. For information, call 412-381-8300.

NOVEMBER3 | Cash bash6-11 p.m., social hall of St. Norbert Church,

2413 St. Norbert St., Overbrook. Cost is $25, and includes buffet. Call 412-881-1316.

10 | Craft showActivity Building of All Saints Parish, 19 Dewey

St., Etna. Featuring more than 40 crafters and vendors. Sponsored by the Christian Mothers. Refreshments are available for sale. Admission is free.

14 | Soup takeout3-6 p.m., motherhouse of the Sisters of St.

Francis of the Providence of God, 3603 McRob-erts Road, Whitehall. Soup choices: wedding, chicken and dumpling and chili. Cost is $5 a quart, and includes two rolls (cornbread with chili). To place an order, call 412-885-7232 by Thursday, Nov. 8.

17 | Vera Bradley bingo7 p.m. (doors open at 6 p.m.), Family Life

Center of St. Thomas More Parish, 126 Fort Couch Road, Bethel Park. Play about 15 games of bingo, each with a Vera Bradley bag as a prize.

ONGOING | Shopping, Villa Market BarnOpen 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-2

p.m. on Saturday, Villa Maria Community Center, 2105 Evergreen Road, Villa Maria. Features naturally grown vegetables and produce, fresh herbs and more. Call 724-964-8920, ext. 3386.

Submitted by Therese KolodziejCorpus Christi Parish in McKeesport

Kolodziej writes: “This is my favorite recipe to make for our church bake sales and affairs. They are easy to make, and sell well. Not too much competition for these, and a favorite for many.”

Ingredients: 6 whole eggs1 1/2-cups milk1 cup softened butter2 cups granulated sugar6 cups all purpose flour6 tsp. baking powder1/2-tsp. lemon juice1 tsp. vanilla

Directions: Mix together, slightly adding more flour as needed to roll out. DO NOT OVER FLOUR.

Roll out 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch thick, cut long strips 1 inch wide, cut at an angle 2 inches long and slice a line in the center. Pull one end through and fry in fryer at 350 degrees, and turn over to the other side when golden and brown. Drain on paper towels, cool and dust with powdered sugar.

Notes: They get dark fast, so don’t leave them in the fryer too long. The thicker you make them, the chewier they are.

If you like them thin and dark, roll thinner and fry longer. Recipe can be cut in half to make about 7 dozen, depending how big you make them.

My recipe is much thicker and softer than what grandma used to make.


SPiritual & eDucational eventS parish missions & retreatsscheduled throughout the Diocese of Pittsburgh during the autumn months are listed below.

SEPTEMBER22 | Certification trainingFor parish advocates for people with dis-

abilities, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. in Domenec Hall of St. Paul Seminary in Crafton. To register, call 412-456-3119 or 412-456-3122 (TTY).

22-26 | Parish missionSt. Joseph Parish, 1304 Fourth Ave., Coraopo-

lis. Franciscan Father Albert Haase is retreat master. Schedule: Sept. 22 and 23, preaching at weekend Masses; Sept. 24 and 25, 8 a.m. Mass; Sept. 26, 7 p.m. Mass; Sept. 24-26, Father will speak at 7 p.m. For information, call 412-264-6162 or visit www.saintjosephparish.net.

22-27 | Parish missionSaturday-Thursday parish mission begins with

all Masses on the weekend (Sept. 22 and 23) and continues through the week with nightly sessions at 7 p.m., St. Thomas More Parish, 126 Fort Couch Road, Bethel Park. Each evening will feature a different theme reflected upon by guest missioner, Paulist Father Edward Nowak, fol-lowed by social time. Themes for each evening: Monday, “Open your eyes;” Tuesday, “Open your hearts;” Wednesday, “Open your mind;” Thursday, “Open your hands.” For information, call 412-833-0031.

27 | Program“Sabbath Experience for Caregivers”

10 a.m.-3 p.m., Villa Maria Community Center, 2105 Evergreen Road, Villa Maria. Cost is $5 and includes lunch. Caregivers can spend time as they like, such as walking the labyrinth, or nature trails, swimming in the pool and more. To register, call 724-964-8886.

29-30 | Ministry fairSaturday-Sunday St. Athanasius Parish,

7 Chalfonte Ave., West View. More than 30 parish ministries will be represented. Volunteer opportunities include teaching, taking Com-munion to the sick and homebound, welcoming newcomers and more. For more information, call 412-931-4624, or visit www.stathanasiuswv.org.

29-30 | Ministry fairSt. Thomas More Parish, 126 Fort Couch Road,

Bethel Park. Fair will feature more than 40 parish ministries.

30 | Celebration of Gifts2 p.m. Mass, followed by social, St. Paul

Seminary in Crafton. Bishop David Zubik will celebrate mass, with social to follow. Program is a kick off to Respect Life Month (October), highlighting the wonder of the many gifts that differently abled adults and children have to offer God. (See story on Page 30)

30-Oct. 5 | Conference retreat“Pausing to Grow in Awareness,” presented by

Augustinian Father Jim Friedl. The retreat takes a down to earth approach to spirituality and is


conducted in a narrative and storytelling style. Cost is $375, and includes program, meals and lodging. To register, call 724-964-8886.

OCTOBER4 | Blessing of beastsIn honor of St. Francis of Assisi, 6:30 p.m., St.

Joseph Parish, 1304 Fourth Ave., Coraopolis. For information, call 412-264-6162

6-7 | “Come and See weekend” 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, through 3 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 7, Mount Alvernia on the grounds of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities, 146 Hawthorne Road, Millvale. The retreat is for single women to explore the pos-sibilities for ministry, spirituality and community. Includes time for prayer, reflection, sharing and more. To register, call Sister Joselle Orlando at 1-315-634-7083, or visit www.sosfvocations.org.

11-14 | Art retreat“Finding God in the Clay in My Hand”

Thursday-Sunday, Villa Maria Community Center, 2015 Evergreen Road, Villa, Maria. Cost is $295, and includes overnight accommodations, materials and meals. Commuter rate is $225. To register, call 724-964-8886.

20 | Mercy Parish Nurse andHealth Ministry Symposium

“Visioning Ministries of Health,” 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Sister M. Ferdinand Clark Auditorium of UMPM Mercy, 1400 Locust St. in Pittsburgh’s Uptown neighborhood. Event provides continuing education, resources and network-ing opportunities to those who are active or interested in starting health ministries in their churches. Cost is $30, with a reduced rate of $10 for undergraduate nursing students. For informa-tion, call 412-232-5815. Registration deadline is Oct. 12.

21 | Anointing MassPrayers for healing, noon, St. Joseph Parish,

1304 Fourth Ave, Coraopolis. A reception will follow in Healy Hall. For information, call 412-264-6162 or visit www.saintjosephparish.net.

21 | Golden wedding anniversary MassFor couples celebrating golden wedding

anniversaries, 2:30 p.m., St. Paul Cathedral, 108 N. Dithridge St., Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighbor-hood. Bishop David Zubik is celebrant.

24 | 47th annual Diocese of PittsburghPeru Mission Dinner

“A Bridge of Love, Hope and Faith,” Sheraton Station Square, Pittsburgh’s South Side. For information, call 412-456-3085.

Cranberry pumpkin muffins

Submitted by Jean WytiazSt. Elizabeth Parish in Pleasant Hills

Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups flour1 tsp. baking soda1/4 tsp. baking powder1/2 tsp. cinnamon1/4 tsp. cloves1/4 tsp. salt1 cup sugar1/4 cup margarine, softened2 eggs1 cup pumpkin1 cup cranberries, chopped1/3 cup walnuts, chopped

Directions: Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Sift together dry ingredients. Cream together sugar and margarine until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time. Stir in pumpkin. Add dry ingredients, stirring until just blended. Fold in cranberries. Fill muffin cups to top. Sprinkle with nuts. Bake 12-15 minutes, or until done.

28 | Jubilee MassLaRoche College, 1:30 p.m., 9000 Babcock

Blvd., McCandless Township. Mass will mark the 200th anniversary of the college’s namesake, Mother Marie de la Roche. The “Enthronement of the St. John’s Bible” will be held at the college, with a reception to follow at 3:30 p.m.

NOVEMBER2 | Outdoor memorial serviceFor deceased love ones, noon, St. Joseph

Cemetery, Old Thorn Run Road and Mooncrest Drive, Moon Township.

2 | Memorial Mass7 p.m., St. Joseph Parish, 1304 Fourth Ave.,

Coraopolis.

ONGOING PROGRAMSSundays | Monthly series for young adults

“Porta Fidei: Walking through the Door of Faith,” starting with dinner at 5 p.m., followed by speaker and fellowship, Gilmary Retreat Center, 601 Flaugherty Run Road, Findlay Township. Theme of program will focus on the Year of Faith. Programs held on Sundays, Oct. 7, Nov. 4 and Dec. 2.

Mondays | Adult Education series“Life Matters,” Mondays in October, 7 p.m.,

Family Life Center of St. Thomas More Parish, 126 Fort Couch Road, Bethel Park. Presented by Deacon Bill Batz, series will focus on different areas of church teachings on the social issues of life.

Tuesdays | Coffee and contemplation series9:30 – 11:30 a.m., Villa Maria Community

Center, 2105 Evergreen Road, Villa Maria. Schedule and topics: Oct. 9, “Catch a Falling Leaf; “Nov. 13, “The Biblical Worldview.” Cost is $7 for program, $12 for program and lunch. To register, call 724-964-8886.

Wednesdays | Prayer through theSeasons series

St. Teresa of Avila’s classic work, “The Way of Perfection,” Wednesdays, Oct. 10, 24, Nov. 7 and 28 and Dec. 12, 10-11:30 a.m. and repeated 7-8:30 p.m., St. Paul of the Cross Retreat Center, 148 Monastery Ave., Pittsburgh’s South Side. Call 412-381-7676.

Thursdays | Western Pennsylvania Chesterton Society meetings

7:30 p.m. in the Zelienople area. Meeting dates are Oct. 11 and Nov. 8. Call Victoria Darkey at 724-453-3524.


By PEGGY ZEZZAIn May of this year Smithsonian Magazine

published a list of the 20 Best Small Towns in America, and Pennsylvania’s city of Butler was ranked No. 7.

Butler is north of Pittsburgh, and is the seat of Butler County. The city has a population of 13,800. The magazine cites the town as “a business and cultural hub, with its own baseball team, thriving downtown, cultural activities, museums and more.” It also men-tions what Butler is most famous for, the

Fall Road TripFall Road Tripinvention of the Jeep, which was invented just before World War II at the Bantam Car Co. The invention is still celebrated today with the Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival in August.

Due to the hills and trees surrounded by a striking countryside, Butler is a lovely place to visit in the fall.

Getting There

Route 8 goes directly through Butler. You can access Route 8 by the Pennsylvania

Turnpike, and take the Butler Valley Exit. The exit puts you right onto Route 8. Make sure you head north to Butler. You will drive past many restaurants and stores as you pass the communities of Gibsonia, Glade Mills and more. The route will take you right to Main Street in Butler.

You can also reach Butler by Interstate 79 North and taking Exit 99, which puts you on Route 422. Make a right on Route 422 toward Kittanning. The drive will take you through beautiful Moraine State Park. Exit Route 422


Pumpkin Cobbler

Submitted by Jennifer Stolar St. Sylvester Parish, Brentwood

Stolar writes: “At Thanksgiving, we no longer have pumpkin pie. By popular demand, we have pumpkin cobbler. Tastes extra yummy with a dollop of whipped cream!”

Ingredients: 1 box yellow cake mix (set aside 1 cup dry mix)1 stick of butter Directions: Melt butter, remove from

heat, add yellow cake mix, stir, then press into greased 13x9 pan.

Filling:1 large can of pumpkin3 eggs, beaten1/2 cup brown sugar1/2 cup sugar2/3 cup evaporated milk1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spiceMix and pour over base

Crumb topping:1 cup reserved dry cake mix1/2 cup sugar1/2 stick melted butterMix together and crumble on top.

Bake at 350 degrees for one hour.

East at the Butler (Route 8 South) exit. Take Route 8 south down the hill into the city.

What You Will See

One of the first sights you will see is the historic Butler County Courthouse since it is the tallest structure in downtown Butler. The structure is located at 24 W. Diamond St., and it is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Behind the courthouse, on 123 W. Diamond St., is the Butler County Historical Society. The society’s offices are located in the Lowrie/Shaw House. Built in 1828, it was the home of U.S. Sen. Walter Lowrie, and it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.The house has been renovated to its 19th-century splendor. Tours are given on Fridays from noon-3: 15 p.m. Tours are provided other days when docents are available. For information on tours, call 724-283-8116.

While in Butler, you will also want to

visit the Maridon Museum, located at 322 N. McKean St. Opened in 2004, the museum houses four galleries, with a specific focus on Asian art and cultures, as well as German Meissen porcelain. For information, call 724-282-0567 or visit www.maridon.org.

For more fine art visit the Associated Art-ists of Butler County, located on 344 S. Main St. The fine arts gallery is open Wednesday through Thursdays, noon-6 p.m., Friday, noon-9 p.m., and Saturdays, noon-6 p.m. You can also visit www.AABCArtCenter.com

Staying on North McKean Street, you may want to make a stop to pray at beautiful St. Paul Parish, 128 N. McKean St. Built in 1911, the words of St. Paul, “stand fast in the faith, be brave and strong,”are carved in the entrance. For information on Mass times and other services, call 724-287-1759, or visit www.stpaulbutler.org.

As the Smithsonian Magazine article states, Continued on Page 31


Everyone can proclaim ChristBy LORIE UhLMANN

We look to this new season and examine our “calling” to share the Good News of Christ with all people. It is a time of great joy and blessing for the diocesan Depart-ment for Persons with Disabilities, and the entire Diocese of Pittsburgh! For 25 years – so many wonderful people – adults, youth and children, have served in this ministry, as parish advocates, board members, Braille writers, caregivers, catechists, committee members, counselors, educators, facilitators, family members, guides, inter-preters, mentors, presenters, supporters, team members and all around people of faith, sharing their many unique gifts as the living body of Christ.

In light of this we, as the “Church Alive!,” will be joined in prayer and celebration at the First Celebration of Gifts Mass, to be held at St. Paul Seminary in Crafton in the newly dedicated O’Connor Building on Sunday, Sept. 30. Mass will begin at 2 p.m., in the Bishop John McDowell Auditorium. The gathering following Mass will be held in the Great Cardinals’ Hall, where refreshments will be served. We are honored that Bishop David Zubik, our shepherd, will be the head celebrant for this liturgy.

On the eve of October, best known to our church as Respect Life Month, we invite all to come together to give glory and honor to God, the Creator of the miracle of life. We are thankful for all the many different gifts given by our loving God to and through all his people. We look forward to praying with you and sharing this most special time together.

If anyone would like more information or has any particular accommodations they would like to request for this event, contact the Department for Persons with Disabilities at 412-456-3119 (voice;) 412-456-3122 (TTY); or e-mail [email protected]

Uhlmann is director at the Department for Persons with Disabilities.


Praline Sweet Potato Bake

Submitted by Patti KozarSt. Joseph Parish in Coraopolis

Kozar writes: “I submitted this recipe in a local holiday cookbook and won a place in the top three. It is a tasty change from the mashed or baked sweet potatoes we normally served. Now it is a fall favorite with family and two grandsons.”

Ingredients:3 cups cold, mashed sweet potatoes1/3 cup milk1/4 cup packed brown sugar1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted1 egg1 tsp. vanilla1 tsp. salt

Topping: 1/3 cup packed brown sugar1/3 cup chopped pecans3 tbsp. flour3 tbsp. melted butter or margarine

Directions: In a bowl beat the potatoes, milk, brown sugar, butter egg, vanilla and salt until fluffy.

Transfer to a greased 1 1/2 quart baking pan. Combine topping ingredients until blended. Sprinkle over top.

Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.

there are many cultural activities in the city, including a symphony (www.butlersymphony.org), Blazing Star Choral Society (www.blazingstarchorus.org) and Butler Notables Barbershop Chorus (www.harmonize.com/notables), among others. If you are in Butler in the fall, you may want to take in a show at the Butler Little Theatre, located at 1 Howard St. The theater will start its 72nd season in October with the comedy “A Vampire Reflects,” from Oct. 5-13. It will be followed by “It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Show,” from Nov. 23-Dec. 1. For information on the 2012-13 season, as well as prices, call the box office at 724-287-6781, Monday-Friday, 7-9 p.m., or visit www.BLTgroup.com.

A trip to downtown Butler would not be complete without at stop at the city’s oldest family business, Cummings, a full-service coffee bar and chocolate shop. Established in 1905, the shop is located at 146 N. Main St. The store offers handmade chocolates, fair

Fall Road TripFall Road Triptrade coffee, old fashioned chocolate malts, fresh baked scones, espresso and much more. Hours are Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m.- 5 p.m., Saturday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For more information,call 724-287-3287, or visit www. cummingscoffee.com.

If you are looking to enjoy the fall foliage more, take a ride through Butler County’s scenic farmland with a self-guided driving barn trail. For information, request a brochure by calling 1-866-856-8444 or visit www.visitbutlercounty.org.

Butler County itself is full of small towns, outdoor recreation spots and stunning fall foliage. Before you leave, be sure to visit the following websites for more information on the city and county of Butler: www.cityof-butler.org; www.visitbutlercounty.com; www.butlerdowntown.org, or call 1-866-856-8444.

Continued from page 29


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Friends of the Poor

WalkBy DEACON KEITH KONDRICH


Reuben Loaf

Submitted by Betsey UslenghiSt. Rose of Lima Parish in Darlington

Uslenghi writes: “I always take this dish to Oktoberfest.”

Ingredients: 3 1/4 to 3 3/4 cup all purpose flour1 package (1/4 ounce) quick-rise yeast1 tablespoon sugar1 tablespoon butter1 tsp. salt1 cup warm water1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing3 packages of thinly-sliced deli

corned beef (6 ounces total)4 ounces sliced Swiss cheese1 8-ounce can sauerkraut (drained)1 egg white, beatenCaraway seeds

Directions: Combine 2 1/4 cup flour, yeast, sugar butter and salt. Stir in warm water. Mix until soft dough forms. Add remaining flour if necessary. Turn onto lightly floured surface; knead for about 4 minutes, or until smooth.

On a lightly greased baking sheet, roll dough to a 14x10 inch rectangle. Spread dressing down center third of dough. Top with layers of beef, cheese and sauerkraut. Make cuts from filling to edges of dough, 1 inch apart on both sides of filling. Cover dough and let rise about two hours.

Brush with egg white and sprinkle with caraway seeds. Bake at 400 degrees for 25 minutes, or until lightly browned. Serve immediately. Refrigerate leftovers.

Makes 6-8 servings.

During the month of October members and friends of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul will be participating in the second Annual Friends of the Poor 10,000 Step Walk to raise money to assist local individuals and families in need. Last year, 19 local St. Vincent de Paul parish conferences participated in the event, raising more than $30,000 to support their important works of charity.

The Friends of the Poor 10,000 Step Walk is a 21st century walk designed to meet the hectic schedules of busy people who care about their community and want to help others. Instead of scheduling the walk on one specific day, during a specific time at one location; walkers choose where they want to walk, such as a local park, a rural trail, the mall or even around their own home or office and commit to completing 10,000 steps (approximately five miles) within October. All walkers receive a pedometer to keep track of their total steps, a water bottle and a walk T-shirt.

Non-walkers can support the event as individual sponsors for a minimum suggested donation of $5. All sponsors are entered in a drawing for a variety of great prizes including a $3,000 Visa gift card, $500 Wal-Mart gift card and a $250 Giant Eagle gift card.

All of the sponsorship money raised by walkers remains at the local parish conference to help provide basic needs such as food, clothing, furniture and

utility assistance, to our less fortunate neighbors. This year’s generous event sponsors include UPMC Health System and UPMC Mercy, PNC Bank, Duquesne University and Herbein+Company Inc.

For more information on how to register as a walker or individual sponsor, contact Mike Calorie at 412-321-1071, ext. 203, or visit the society’s website at www.svdppitt.org.

Deacon Kondrich is executive director of the St. Vincent de Paul Society.


By PATRICIA BARTOSSENIOR STAFF WRITER

Most of them got their love for cooking from their childhood kitchens, where they learned favorite traditional dishes at the side of their mothers and grandmothers.

Father Nick Vaskov remembers family members — his parents, aunts and uncles — gathering together in his grandparents’ basement several times a year to cook Polish dishes together.

Father Joe Sioli cooked with his Italian grandmother and from early on helped his mother in her catering operation.

They are among eight area priests who will share their chef skills and their favorite dishes when they cook for the “Heavenly Feast” celebration to aid the Little Sisters of the Poor on Thursday, Oct. 25, at the Cardinals’ Great Hall at St. Paul Seminary in Crafton.

The priests will serve the dishes from stations set up throughout the hall. Guests will visit the stations throughout the evening in the event, catered by Common Plea Catering.

They will also enjoy homemade wine created by Father Bob Miller, pastor of St. Benedict in Peters Township.

The celebration will mark the sisters’ 140 years of serving in the diocese and also their selection as one of the best nursing homes in the country, an honor accorded by U.S. News and World Report magazine.

Selections will feature Father Brian Welding’s Orrecchiete San Matteo, using a meat loaf mix of ground veal, beef and port, and his beet and chevre cheese salad with balsamic vinegar dressing.

Father Larry DiNardo will offer his version of fettucine carbonara and his rich ricotta cheese yellow cake dessert.

Father Joe Sioli will serve his bacala in bianco, or white wine sauce, Father James Farnan will cook up his own farfalla farnese, featuring diced buffalo mozzarella, cherry tomatoes and capers.

Father Tom Sparacino will present his sausage and peppers with polenta, noting that the secret to good Sicilian sausage is fennel.

Father Nick Vaskov will share his bigos, or Polish hunter’s stew, the national dish of Poland, ”savory and sour and delicious,” in addition to his cucumber salad.

Father Sam Esposito will present chicken piccata and a salad of fennel and oranges,

in addition to baked greens with potatoes, featuring swiss chard or spinach and pancetta or bacon.

Bishop David Zubik will serve as honorary host for the evening, which will also include presentation of the sisters’ first area St. Jeanne Jugan Medal to James Will, longtime chairman of the sisters’ advisory board, who will accept in the name of all of the sisters’ benefactors and volunteers over the years.

A live auction and a cookie table will also be featured.

“We have a great group of priests helping us,” said Sister Judith Meredith, administrator of the sisters’ home in Pittsburgh’s Brighton Heights neighborhood. “It’s going to be a fun event.”

For ticket information contact Kathleen Bowser at 412-307-1268 or via e-mail at [email protected].


Submitted by Evelyn VenturaNativity Parish in South Park Township

Ventura writes: “This was a favorite for our potluck dinner when we were living in Florida for the winter months. This recipe was shared with everyone in the community, and they loved it. It was never left over.”

Ingredients: 3 cups cooked squash (use butternut

or any winter squash)1 or less cup of sugar1 stick butter1 t vanilla2 eggs

Directions: Beat and place in an11-inch greased pie pan. Top with 1 cup brown sugar1/3 cup flour1/3 cup butter1 cup pecans or walnuts. Bake at 350 for one hour.

Squash Pie

Mizeria(Polish cucumber salad)

— FAThEr NICK VASKoV

Ingredients: Fennel, 1 bulb, trimmed and sliced Celery, 2 stalks, trimmed and cleaned, choppedNavel oranges, 2, cleaned and slicedBlack olives, oil cured, pitted, 1/2 cupDressing: see right

Directions: In a serving bowl, combine the fennel and celery, oranges and olives, add salt and pepper to taste. Toss with dressing and serve. Dressing: whisk together 1/4 cup orange juice, 1 tsp dried basil, freshly ground black pepper, dash of kosher salt, 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar, and 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil.

Fennel and oranges — FAThEr SAM ESPoSITo

Orrecchiete San Matteo — FAThEr BrIAN WElDINg

Ingredients:1 to 1 and 1/2 lb. of orrecchiete pasta1 medium onion (chopped fine)Two small zucchini (sliced thin)Spinach1 cup of dry white wine1 t o 1 and 1/2 lbs. of meat loaf mix

(ground veal, beef and pork)Extra virgin olive oil (1-2 tbls.)2 cans of chopped San Marzano

tomatoes (28 oz. cans)Salt to taste 1 cup of grated parmiggiano reggiano

cheese

Directions: Put olive oil in a large cooking pan or pot and when hot add onion and cook a bit until translucent. Add garlic and cook a few minutes until flavor is released. Add zucchini and continue to cook another two minutes. Add the meat loaf mix, break up the meat and brown it lightly and cook down.

Add the cup of white wine and let it evaporate. Add chopped tomatoes. Simmer for 20-30 minutes. Add raw spinach at the last minute if desired. Save some of the pasta water (2 tbls.)

Drain pasta and add it to the sauce in the pan it is cooking in, toss in the cup of parmiggiano reggiano cheese, mix well and salt to taste if needed.

This cold cucumber salad is tangy and delicious, thanks to the addition of cider vinegar. Even better if made a day ahead. Makes 6 to 8 servings.

Ingredients: 3 cucumbers, ver y thinly sliced 1 medium red onion very thinly sliced1 and 1/2 teaspoons salt1 cup sour cream1 tablespoon cider vinegar1 tablespoon fresh dill1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation: In large bowl mix cucumbers and salt. Cover and refrigerate for one hour. After one hour, drain water from bowl and add red onion slices. In a small bowl mix sour cream, cider vinegar, fresh dill and black pepper. Add sour cream mixture to cucumber and red onion slices and mix gently. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.


7th and 8th Grade Families – Open House – Saturday, Nov. 5

Maura DeRiggi, Admissions Director, 412-321-4823, Ext. 127 – [email protected] is currently accepting applications for transfer students and future school years!

Please call for details!

Academic excellence and spiritual growth in a thriving family environment!

North Catholic High School offers college preparatory, academicexcellence in a caring, family environment.

Earn college credit with our AP classes and begin your collegetranscript while still in high school!

Our ‘no-cut’ policy in athletics and activities will allow YOUR student to be a part of the NC team!

The Admissions Office is here to help! Please call or email for:• Application or Financial Aid information

• Shadow Days • Placement Testing • Transfer Students

FinancialAid

Available!

Open House: Saturday, November 3rd • Noon - 2:00 pmwww.NORTH-CATHOLIC.org • 412-321-4823 Ext.127

EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATIONNorth Catholic offers a challenging curriculum to our students, with opportunitiesfor Honors and Advanced Placement coursework. Your student can earn collegecredit while still in high school!

EXCELLENCE IN FAITH FORMATIONOur Marianist family environment encourages our students to value education,adapt to change and work for justice and peace. Community service is required of

all students!

EXCELLENCE IN ACTIVITIES AND ATHLETICSNorth Catholic encourages all students to be involved in activities! Our ‘no-cut’ policy ensures that students have the

opportunity to learn new skills and enhance existing skills.

North Catholic is currently accepting applications for the Class of 2017. Well-qualified 8th grade studentsare encouraged to apply now. Placement Testing sessions will be held in December, February and March.

Please register online at our website or call the Admissions Office at 412-321-4823 Ext. 127.

135 First Avenue, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 • 1-800-392-4670 •www.pittsburghcatholic.org

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Flexible advertising programs to suit everyone’s budget . . .Call John Connolly @ 412-471-1253

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The numbers are in. Of the 955 graduates of the Class of 2012 from the 11 Catholic high schools of the Diocese of Pittsburgh, 898, or 94 percent, are heading to four-year colleges and universities. That continues a long trend in which almost all of the grads go to college.

Catholic high schools seriously prepare students for college, and for life. The curriculum offerings, from Advanced Placement, College in High School and honors courses, to a rigorous standard course of studies that meets students where they are academically, and challenges them to learn and grow, are designed to make students college-ready. The curriculum is aligned with state standards, and more recently, the national “Common Core” standards, so students learn the skills and concepts for success.

The Catholic environment supports academics. Respect for self, respect for others, doing one’s best in honesty and integrity, are values that teens see and learn. Catholic education is for the whole person — the physical, emotional, intellectual and the spiritual.

Grads carry so much with them. Michael Rubino, a 1977 grad of Quigley Catholic who works at his alma mater as executive director of institutional advancement, put it this way: “Part of the mission statement of Quigley Catholic is ‘to form faith-filled Christians who will contribute to the common good of their church and community.’ One way to fulfill this goal is through accountability. As Catholics, we spread our faith through example; personal accountability for doing the right thing goes a long way for everyone we meet and all who observe us. The natural progression from that is treating others with respect and care. I am grateful that was instilled in me when I attended Quigley Catholic, and I am heartened that we still focus on that today.”

Heather Stephan, a 1989 grad of St. Joseph who is a product manager for PPG Industries and serves on the board of directors for St. Joseph, echoed the same theme: “Attending a Catholic school prepared me for life and taught me to be a contributor to society. I was taught early on to be responsible for my actions, to understand and live by the Golden Rule, and to have compassion for others. At St. Joseph High School, I was taught to be confident, responsible, and an independent thinker; all the while being supported in faith amidst the real world of obligations, responsibilities and

Catholic secondary educationmakes a real difference

By DR. EDWARD G. SChEID disappointments. I was prepared for college because I was taught to take ownership for my actions and decisions. I was prepared to enter the work force because I had a foundation for hard work, an appreciation of community and valued the importance of honesty. I would not trade my Catholic education or my high school experiences at St. Joe’s for any other.”

Same for Mark Lang, a 1991 grad of North Catholic: “As a current religion teacher at Bishop Canevin High School, I find myself echoing the methods of the religion teachers who were a part of my formative years at North. They integrated history, philosophy, etymology, anthropology, and archaeology into the sacred Scriptures and sacred tradition of the Catholic Church in a way that brought

it to life. It impressed upon me the academic nature of theology and prepared me for the academic life at the University of Notre Dame. But deeper than that was the sincere spirituality and faith life that each teacher lived as they led us through experiences of prayer, contemplation, meditation and reflection. Their passion, compassion, tears and laughter made it apparent that this was real for each of them

and I wanted it to be all the more real for me.”

Catholic secondary education makes a real difference.Scheid is a secondary education consultant in the diocesan Department for Catholic Schools.


By JANET RAKOCZY

As the new school year begins, Catholic education thrives in the city of Pittsburgh. With students hailing from 14 parishes and seven school districts, Brookline Regional Catholic is the school for the Pittsburgh neighborhoods of Beechview, Brookline, Carrick, Mount Washington, Mount Oliver, Overbrook and the South Side. BRC is successful. Our students are excelling. We continue to emphasize faith development, academic excellence, extra curricular programs and service to others — qualities that were the traditions of Catholic education in city parishes.

Founded in 1996, our mission calls us to provide a faith-filled education. In addition to a curriculum enriched with Catholic Christian values, our students engage in a variety of faith-based experiences. In response to Bishop David Zubik’s pastoral letter, “The Church Alive,” we invited seminarians to visit. The seminarians discussed their priestly vocation and their service to God. The students

Catholic education is alive and well in South Pittsburgh

positively endorsed their vocations and pray for them each and every day. We are expanding this initiative by inviting priests from our parishes to visit and celebrate liturgy with our students, promoting vocations and showing their support for Catholic education.

The students navigate a challenging academic curriculum. Standardized test scores and various assessments indicate our students well exceed the national percentile. In keeping with our mission to recognize the uniqueness of each individual, teachers use a variety of strategies to meet individual learning styles and strengths.

Students participate in numerous academic endeavors such as National History Day, forensics, Math 24, poetry and art contests and robotics competitions that allow them to strengthen skills. Last year, the sixth-grade science class implemented what they learned to research, write and receive a grant to make BRC “greener” by installing sensors that will reduce electricity consumption. With a renovated research library, expanding computer lab, portable computer carts and Smart Board technology, our students are ready to meet the future.

In keeping with our Catholic identity

and commitment to service to others, our students carry out many projects. In addition to the diocesan mission in Chimbote, Peru, our students established numerous mission partnerships ranging from the Clean Water Project in Chimbote, to promoting dental hygiene to AIDS orphans and providing a roof for a school for shoeless children in Guatemala.

Locally, our efforts center on help for homeless children, comfort for those in shelters and food drives for our local

community food bank. These service projects open the eyes of the BRC community to the wider world. Our students are global citizens who better understand Jesus’ directive “Whatsoever you do to the least of my brothers, that you do unto me.”

We believe an investment in Catholic education at Brookline Regional Catholic School pays dividends for life. As one parent wrote, “I send my children to BRC because of the high academic standards and innovative extra-curricular programs. The religion program is infused throughout the classes — there is a high expectation of standards and behavior. A thriving athletic program complements a commitment to a well-rounded education. A BRC education is one exception to the rule ‘you get what

you yay for.’ In fact, we get so much more than what we pay for, it’s a true bargain.”

BRC has adopted the motto: “We pray! We learn! We achieve!” Come visit us on Waddington Avenue or at brcschool.com to see us in action as we celebrate and reap the benefits of Catholic education in the south neighborhoods of the city of Pittsburgh.

Rakoczy is principal of Brookline Regional Catholic School.

Janet Rakoczy, principal, interacts with students at Brookline Regional Catholic School in Pittsburgh’s Brookline neighborhood.


Saint Joseph High School

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SOUND INTERESTING?COME TO OUR OPEN HOUSE!

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412 835 0600 www.stlouiseschoolpa.org

ST. LOUISE DE MARILLAC CATHOLIC SCHOOL...A CULTURE OF HIGH ACHIEVEMENT FOSTERED IN FAITH, KNOWLEDGE, AND DISCIPLINE.


Following is the acceptance speech delivered May 29 by DeAnna Kwiecinski, teacher at The Campus School of Carlow University in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood, at the 2012 Golden Apple Awards dinner.

The teacher told the students, “Come to the edge.” The students replied, “It is too high.” The teacher said again, “come to the edge.” But the students said, “We may fall.” Then the teacher demanded, “Come to the edge!” So they went to the edge, but the teacher pushed them off ... and then they flew.

This is such an inspirational image. This story sits behind my desk in an 11-by-14 frame and was given to me as a gift when I first began teaching, 15 years ago, by my first teacher ... my mom.

Whether we have a teacher certification or not, we are all called upon at some time to teach — to our families, to our children, to our friends, perhaps even to ourselves — maybe it’s a specific skill or maybe it is one of those “life’s lessons” that is sometimes so hard to learn.

Some of us then, at some point in our lives, were pushed or jumped off that cliff on our own and got that teacher certification. I started out in high school with dreams of becoming an aeronautical engineer, then took a turn and earned a degree in art, took a few other turns here and there along the way, went back to graduate school for education, got married, and had three beautiful children whom all attend The Campus School of Carlow University with me each day. I have been teaching in the Pittsburgh Diocese for well over a decade now.

All of us being honored here this evening have had different paths, which eventually led us to living and embracing the life of a Catholic school teacher in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, and this evening I am pleased to have been asked to represent all of your journeys and to accept these prestigious teaching awards on your behalf.

I would also like to extend all of our appreciation and gratitude to the Donahue Family Foundation, the Golden Apple Committee, and to everyone and anyone

who helped make tonight such a momentous occasion for us all. Thank you.

One teacher I would be remiss not to mention is the greatest teacher of all, and that is Jesus. Using a variety of teaching methods ... telling a story to keep one’s attention ... this same methodology thousands of years ago. He used his creativity and confidence to reel his audience in and then offered the explanations.

While Jesus gained his audience’s interest by telling

parables about farming and fishing, teachers today peek

their students’ curiosity by connecting to what interests them whether it be, sports, food, “SpongeBob” or “American Idol.”

We latch onto what we can to snatch our students’ attention and to hold onto it — to lead them to that edge, and to finally push them to attain heights they never thought possible.

What many of us do not realize, however,

is that many times it is our students, not the teachers, in fact, pushing us to places we’ve never been — to soar beyond what we thought ourselves capable.

Once again, I want to express my gratitude to our dear bishop and all involved in this Golden Apple Award program for bringing this evening to fruition. I am humbled to accept these awards on behalf of all the outstanding educators being honored this evening.

I end my thoughts here with the wisdom of a woman who acted out God’s plan for her in this world beautifully — Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta.

“So often people say that we should look to the elderly, learn from their wisdom, their many years. I disagree, I say we should look to the young: untarnished, without stereotypes implanted in their minds, no poison, no hatred in their hearts. When we learn to see life through the eyes of a child, that is when we become truly wise.”

I will add to her words: that it is then that we are no longer pushing our students off of that edge ... it is then that we are flying next to them, crippling them from soaring to great heights.

Congratulations, again, to all of the Golden Apple Awardees here this evening, and I wish you peace and happiness as you continue on your journey. Thank you.

Come to the edge

Photos by Pam GianoglioBishop David Zubik and others with this year’s Golden Apple Award recipients at the dinner which honors area educators.

DeAnna Kwiencinski

21st Annual Golden Apple Awards


Loretto, PA www.francis.edu814-472-3100

Our students go on to become doctors, biologists, engineers, teachers,business owners, and policy makers to name a few — and they carrytheir Franciscan values with them.

◆ Named a “Top 100 Character Building College” by the Temple-ton Foundation

◆ Highly regarded programs in business, health care, sciences, and the humanities

◆ One of U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Regional Colleges” ◆ 98% of grads are employed or enrolled in graduate school within

nine months

Call 814-472-3100 to schedule your visit today!

Reach higher. Go far.

There is no telling how far you can reachif you start from a good place.

By FATHER JOE FREEDY

Praise the Lord! Another great class of men (15 men, the most in more than 25 years) has entered St. Paul Seminary this year to discern the possibility that God might be calling them to be priests.

The Lord continues to bless our diocese — in the five years that Bishop David Zubik has been back in Pittsburgh as our ordinary, the number of seminarians has more than doubled; a sure sign that the Lord continues to answer our prayers for priestly vocations.

One of the great joys in my ministry as vocation director for the diocese is to visit our Catholic elementary schools and high schools. The purpose of my visit, whether I am celebrating Mass for the school, giving a retreat or a talk, or just spending time with the students, is always the same — to help people know that our God who created us

out of love has a perfect plan for our lives, and that particular path and plan is called our vocation.

One of my favorite passages from Scripture that I often quote when I speak about vocations is from Jeremiah (29:11): “For I know well the plans I have in mind for you says the Lord, plans for your welfare, not for woe — plans to give you a future full of hope!” What I find when I preach about God’s plan for our lives is that many people never considered that God would be involved enough to have created us with purpose, let alone that he would love us enough to desire our happiness. But that is exactly what a vocation is … an invitation from God to follow his plan for our lives, and because God desires our happiness and knows what makes for our happiness even better than us, His plan is the one we should desire to follow with all of our hearts.

The response from the students has been tremendous. Our young people are so open and joyful when the reality of God’s love is preached to them that I always walk away from my time with them refreshed and renewed. It is always a life-giving experience for me.

I am so grateful to the faculty and staff of so many of our Catholic elementary schools and high schools for inviting me in and giving me the opportunity to speak about vocations on such a regular basis. May the Lord continue to build a true culture of vocations in our diocese, and may many young men answer the call to the priesthood, and men and women to the religious life.

For information regarding priestly vocations: www.pghpriest.com.

Father Freedy is director of the diocesan Office for Priestly Vocations.

The number of seminarians has doubled under Bishop Zubik


By DR. MARY hINES

We have heard that the past is prologue, yet we can shape the future through shared values and dialogue to meet emerging needs. This is especially true for those institutions grounded in the Catholic intellectual tradition and the Gospel values of their founding religious communities. Today, Catholic institutions must truly be places of “higher” learning, opening minds to eternal truths in the context of the needs of 21st century learners. This requires Catholic colleges/universities to be in the world, aligned with its challenges and opportunities for knowledge, skills and values. However, Catholic institutions are challenged to not be engulfed by the world. Education at Catholic institutions transcends the world of the perishable and the selfish, aligning learners with the permanent and with concern for others. This requires them to embrace the Gospel imperatives of social justice and the sacredness of creation.

Catholic institutions educate people of all faiths and no faith, of financial resources and of none, heeding Christ’s charge to teach all nations and to teach those who most need to learn. The challenge to many small Catholic institutions is to find the right formula to provide a quality 21st century education with limited financial resources. Catholic institutions are often funded only by tuition and the generous contributions of benefactors, yet they provide access to a large number of economically disadvantaged students. Often these students have also been academically disadvantaged, given poor educational quality in some schools they have attended. Catholic colleges and universities have long demonstrated an intense and comprehensive commitment to ensuring opportunity and equity. Yet, this dedication to mission cannot endure without some margin. In the current economic environment, Catholic institutions are challenged to find

financial resources to fulfill their mission.In today’s educational environment,

we cannot underestimate the value of the liberal arts in learning. While many claim that liberal studies are passé and irrelevant to being successful, research and interviews with employers dispute that claim. In a rapidly changing environment where information is ubiquitous, students must practice discernment through intellectual discipline. Catholic colleges and universities are grounded in the traditions of the liberal arts, which

provide such framework for effective learning. Catholic institutions foster learning for living, not just for labor. The liberal arts foster an essential understanding of humanity, history, culture and citizenship, and develop significant skills of inquiry, communication, analysis and judgment. Society is well served by graduates of Catholic institutions, which embrace liberal education in its true

meaning: liberating human minds to be free and responsible

In today’s environment of acrimonious dispute, Catholic institutions are also challenged to create learning environments characterized by civility, where people of good will engage in reasoned discourse that respects people while mutually pursuing truth. Institutions of higher education are places where knowledge is created, discovered, shared, reinterpreted, applied and challenged. Catholic colleges and universities are members of these learning communities and must be able to fully engage with other scholars in such pursuit of truth. The challenge for Catholic institutions is to ensure they have the opportunity to bring their unique perspectives and positions to the table to be heard, shared, and considered in open and respectful discourse. Freedom of academic expression is an essential component in the pursuit of truth, where ideas are challenged and improved, thus advancing all participants toward a better understanding of the good, the true and the beautiful.

Catholic colleges and universities face

challenges in achieving alignment with and in the world, access and success for students, application of Gospel values in a secular environment, affirmation of the liberal arts and affiliation with the larger community of scholars. Yet, such challenges are also opportunities for greater appreciation of Catholic higher education and a call to continue to embrace its purpose.

As president of Carlow University, a Catholic university committed to the Mercy values of justice and service, I welcome these opportunities as I welcome all the students, faculty and staff who choose Carlow as their academic home. Together we walk the learning journey in pursuit of knowledge and wisdom, secure in our faith in each

other, in God, and in the power of a Catholic education as the means to a better life for ourselves and for others.

hines is president of Carlow University in Pittsburgh.

Challenges to Catholic higher education

Holy Child Catholic School

220 Station StreetBridgeville, PA 15017

412-221-4720www.holychildcatholic.org

Teaching as Jesus did.... Since 1948!

Pre-K through 8th

Carlynton, Chartiers Valley,Canon McMillan,

South Fayette, Fort Cherry, West Allegheny,

Upper St. Clair and Peters Township

Your school bus does stop here!

Catholic institutions

educate people of all faiths and no faith, of financial resources and of none, heeding Christ’s charge to teach all nations and to teach those who most need to learn.


Visit Shady Side Academyduring one of our fallopen houses.

Junior School (PK-5)

Thursday, October 18 .............9:15 amSaturday, November 10.... 10:00 am

Middle School (6-8)

Thursday, October 25.......... 7:00 pm

Senior School (9-12)

Saturday, October 27 ........... 1:00 pm

Engage with learningwith teacherswith Shady Side

Register online today to attend an open house! www.SSAengage.org

By SISTER CANDACE INTROCASO

One need not search for too long through the current literature on Catholic higher education to find evidence that Catholic identity is one of the critical issues that has garnered the attention of American Catholic educators consistently over the past four decades.

One might venture to say that if all the recent research and scholarship on Catholic higher education could be distilled into one issue, the focus would turn to the question of Catholic identify — what does it mean to be a Catholic institution of higher education today, especially in the United States? What does it mean to

be a college or university in the tradition of the Roman Catholic Church, to define oneself within the continuity of one’s own historical tradition as both a religious and

an American educational institution?

In Blessed Pope John Paul II’s 1990 encyclical on higher education, “Ex corde Ecclesiae” (“From the Heart of the Church”), the church emphasizes the need to be intentional about an institution’s Catholic identity. The document is a challenge to strengthen the way in which Catholic identity is manifest. “Ex corde Ecclesiae” lays out the

essential characteristics of a Catholic institution of higher learning and provides general norms to guide institutions in maintaining their Catholic identity. The

four essential characteristics of a Catholic institution are as follows:

• A Christian inspiration not only of individuals but of the university community as such.

• A continuing reflection in the light of the Catholic faith upon the growing treasury of human knowledge to which it seeks to contribute by its own research.

• Fidelity to the Christian message as it comes to us through the church.

• An institutional commitment to the service of the people of God and of the human family in their pilgrimage to the transcendent goal which gives meaning to life.

In light of these characteristics, the document makes clear that in addition to teaching, research and service, common to all universities, a Catholic institution of higher learning brings to its task the inspiration of the Christian message.

My experience as president of a Catholic college, and my over 20 years

Future of Catholic higher education

What does it mean to be a college

or university in the tradition of the Roman Catholic Church, to define oneself within the continuity of one’s own historical tradition as both a religious and an American educational institution?


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of working at Catholic institutions of higher learning, convinces me that this is what distinguishes Catholic colleges from other colleges and universities, attention to a mission not only to educate, but, more importantly, a mission rooted in the Gospel values of mercy, compassion, justice, service and love. More than merely setting us apart from other colleges and universities, a commitment to educating for the common good is the one thing that may ensure the future vitality of our colleges and universities.

We live in a consumer-driven, secular society, which presents young people with conflicting views on morals and social values. Catholic colleges are a lifeline for students who want a sense of purpose and who want the firm knowledge that they can use their education to make a

difference in our world. This focus on Gospel values leads

Catholic colleges and universities to be very intentional in the curriculum and

programs we offer. For example, many colleges offer a program for freshmen to acquaint them with college life. These courses present the basics of time management, study and research techniques, and what to expect in and out of the classroom.

However, at many Catholic institutions, including La Roche College, our first-year

program, the La Roche Experience, exposes all new students to Catholic social teaching, to justice issues around the world, to service opportunities to those in need, and it is taught within the context of theological reflection and journaling. It gives our students a skill set that goes beyond classroom note-taking

and how to conduct library research. It gives them a skill set to make a lifetime of difference.

In the ever-diversifying landscape of American higher education, students today are faced with more choice as to where to continue their education after high school as never before in the history of higher education in the United States. For the more than 200 Catholic colleges and universities in the United States, distinguishing themselves from the competition is critical to their very survival and distinguishing themselves by providing students with an education rooted in Gospel values is critical to our world.

Divine Providence Sister Candace is president ofLa Roche College in McCandless Township.

Catholic colleges are a lifeline for

students who want a sense of purpose and who want the firm knowledge that they can use their education to make a difference in our world.


Mission and affordabilityBy DR. CHARLES J. DOUGHERTY

The future of Catholic higher education will be shaped by the character of our responses to two general challenges. How will we maintain and advance our Catholic mission? How will we remain affordable to the families and students who want to benefit from the education we offer?

American Catholic higher education is unique in our number and variety of universities. For Catholic universities of any considerable age (Duquesne is 134 years old), what it means to be Catholic has changed a great deal from the time of our founding. What were once ethnically specific and rigidly disciplined organizations have become welcoming to all, and far more open and self-reflective in the search for truth and in teaching.

But there is a widespread agreement now in the Catholic higher education community that it is time for renewed attention to our Catholic mission in curriculum, research and teaching, and

standards on campus. It is not always easy to know what our mission requires in every case in these complex areas. But it is the responsibility of leaders of Catholic universities to try to discern it — in concert with our sponsoring religious congregations, with our bishops, and with our own internal communities of faculty, students and staff.

At Duquesne University of the Holy Spirit, for example, we express our mission with a required curriculum that includes course work in theology, philosophy, ethics and service learning. There is an active Catholic and ecumenical liturgical life on campus. We have an influential Office of Mission and Identity, with a Center on the Catholic Intellectual Tradition. We have multiple annual lectures on the spirituality and work of our sponsors, the Spiritans. There is funding for faculty to research and teach in areas touching Catholic and Spiritan themes. Our Strategic Plan makes multiple academic and service connections to Africa as an expression of the Spiritans’ missionary work there. Faculty, staff and students understand that fidelity to our mission and identity is crucial to our success now and in the future.

Our second challenge is related to cost. All American universities are in a difficult cost spiral. We are labor intensive. There is little opportunity for labor-saving alternatives, certainly not without sacrificing the quality of our interactions with students. They demand the best in the classroom and in all the services a modern university provides. And those services are largely driven now by costly technology. Catholic universities must be competitive with other universities, many of which are state subsidized. This means continued upward pressure on tuition.

Like many Catholic universities founded in the 19th century, Duquesne was established to help poor immigrant families escape poverty. There was little or no tuition in the early days. The university operated on the “living endowment” of the priests who ran the university with a vow of poverty. As the

university grew, vocations declined and the Catholic population grew in affluence, this model declined. Now the university has a tuition consistent with a private university.

But there is more to this picture. First is that families see the value of a Duquesne investment. We are now recognized as a leading national university. Most recently, US News and World Report put Duquesne in the top 10 of national Catholic universities. At the same time, we have been attracting some of our largest freshmen classes in our history. This fall’s class is expected to be the largest ever, despite the nation’s recession.

Another part of the picture is financial aid. In addition to the aid available through federal and state programs, Duquesne makes a very large annual investment in financial aid. Of a total budget of about $260 million, Duquesne spent more than $80 million last year on financial aid to our students — more than 30 percent of our budget. This is why we advise parents of potential students to speak personally with an admissions counselor, because their child may qualify for more financial aid than they initially believe.

Finally, despite the dollar amount of our tuition, it accounts for only about 85 percent of the income we need to run the university. Duquesne works constantly for the remaining 15 percent, depending on the generosity of our alumni and friends. We are grateful to over 60,000 of them who have donated a record $155 million to the university in our current capital campaign. This helps keep tuition down.

These are the main challenges facing Catholic higher education. We must stay competitive as contemporary universities and remain affordable as we do so. But above all, we must remain true to

ourselves as Catholic institutions.

Dougherty is president of Duquesne University in Pittsburgh.


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By ERIN SKIFF

Going to Brookline Regional Catholic School has made a huge impact on my life.

I know the things I have learned here could not have been learned anywhere else. The independence I have gained and the friendships I have made can never be replaced.

My education is extremely important to me. This school has taught me to try the best I can at everything I do.

My teachers have shown me that it is not easy to achieve what I want. I know now that I must keep trying until I get there.

One value I will always remember is my faith and how it has grown. If I ever have a problem, I know that God is always ready to help me. I truly believe that my Catholic education has dramatically improved my relationship with God.

I feel that my education could not have been taught better anywhere else. I have learned independence and leadership from performing in forensics, participating in the Newspaper Club, being involved in the Culture Club and having the opportunity to be a student leader. These qualities will help me in choosing a career and fulfilling its responsibilities. Throughout the years,

my parents have made sacrifices for me to be a part of this school. I can never thank them enough for doing all that they do for me.

All of these reasons and more ensure me that I have a successful future.My whole life has been centered on Catholic education. I know that my

future is completely in my hands. So I will continue to make it worth fulfilling. My faith has helped me find who I really am, and it has made me realize

the importance of my life. My Catholic education has changed my life.

Skiff, who is a freshman at Seton-LaSalle High School in Mount Lebanon, wrote this as the winning essay during her eighth-grade year at Brookline Regional Catholic School.

How my Catholic education prepared me for the future

A fourth-grader raises her hand to answer a question at Christ the King School in Irondequoit, N.Y.


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By JOHN CAROSELLA

At St. Vincent College, Benedictine Father Tom Devereux saw in me what I did not see in myself. He took a chance on what was beneath my surface. On the verge of abandoning my college education for the third time during the turbulent 1960s, it was

Father Tom who offered me the chance to hang onto what he considered to be his own lifeline — the theater. It was his way of serving both God and his fellow human beings, and it became mine, because he saw my potential and taught me how to tap it.

Father Tom was not a preacher, but his passionate approach to theater was the most eloquent “sermon” I have ever heard. Through his good example, he taught me everything I know about acting and directing, and the technical aspects of theater. Most importantly, he showed me the power of theater to transform young lives when he insisted I accompany him to help produce a first play at Greensburg Central Catholic High School. When I joined the faculty of that school a year later, I was prepared to begin a long career in directing in high school. My success over the years is a tribute to the effectiveness of all the lessons he taught.

A great teacher looks beyond obvious flaws and shortcomings. A great teacher looks beneath the surface and sees the things that can be developed. A great teacher musters the courage it takes to risk rejection and the patience it takes to wait for results. A

great teacher lives on in the lives of those he touches and lives on again in the lives who those people in their turn touch. Because Father Tom taught me to do for others what he did for me, he is likely to live on forever.

Carosella is an English teacher St. Joseph High School in Natrona Heights.

Father Tom Deveroux with Joe Reilly, with whom he founded the St. Vincent Summer Theatre.


Two things attracted me to Franciscan. First, the passion-ately Catholic atmosphere and community: The people

here are trying to be saints, and that’s an incredible thing to be a part of. Second, I knew Franciscan could help me real-ize my dream of becoming a doctor.The biology and chemistry programs are incredibly chal-lenging. I’ve had to die to myself in order to meet the rig-orous demands of the program. It’s more than worth it though. On top of the coursework, I’m also getting the chance to do research with my professors as part of the Franciscan Institute for World Health. For me, that re-search includes an internship at Abbott laboratories inChicago, where I get to work alongside a team doing Neglected Diseases research. That’s an opportunity few students from anywhere get because internships in the pharmaceutical industry are so competitive.What really sets the sciences at Franciscan apart, how-ever, is that God doesn’t get left out of the classroom.I’ve come to understand more fully why I believe whatI believe, and I’ve learned how to stand rm in that.For Catholics who want to be doctors in this day and age,that’s essential.

MattHome State: IllinoisMajor: Biology

Admits qualified students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin, disability, and sex.

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Excellent/Passionately Catholic


By KAThY WRAY

Without a doubt, I am certain of the teacher whose early influence has made such a difference in my vocation as a teacher and pastoral minister.

When I was a junior at Bethel Park Senior High School, Dr. William Switala, then chair of the Social Studies department, taught an honors level “humanities” class. This class was my first introduction to the enlivening interplay between philosophy, history and classic literature and poetry.

While my memory of specific lessons is sparse, I know those

lessons still surface as I introduce my students to Aristotle and Aquinas, among others. Most importantly, Switala urged me to dig deeply into Victor Hugo’s “Les Miserables,” and in doing so, he changed my life. In that novel, I met Christ’s love for the poor, and my desire to serve that Christ was ignited and encouraged in the conversations he and I had around this novel.

Many years later, Switala’s work on the Underground Railroad in western Pennsylvania nurtured my son’s love for the Civil War, and I was able to speak with Switala after so many years. It was an honor to finally be able to thank the man who has left such an impact on me.

As year rolls into year, the details often get a bit fuzzy, but when a teacher sows a seed that sticks way down deep, the reaches of those roots make an impact that lasts and that surfaces so many times throughout one’s life. Dr. Switala, thanks for that.

Wray is chairwoman of the Department of Religion and co-director of campus ministries at Seton-LaSalle High School in Mount Lebanon.

By JOhN LEEMAN

When I reflect upon my days in high school, I can’t help but fondly remember a particular teacher who made a profound impact on me. Mr. Michael Callahan was the Senior religion teacher, and retreat coordinator for DeSmet Jesuit High School in St. Louis, Mo., when I was a high school student there. The greatest religion course I have ever taken was taught by Mr. Callahan who had the great gift of using modern film as an instrument of demonstrating the profound relevance of the gospel of Jesus Christ to the lives of adolescent teenage males living in America today. I had the privilege of attending one, and serving on the leadership team of two Kairos retreats led by Mr. Callahan. While on retreat I was able to see firsthand the great concern for the spiritual well-being and growth that Mr. Callahan had for the young men entrusted to his care.

Mr. Callahan is perhaps the one teacher most responsible for inspiring me to become an educator myself, but perhaps for a reason not already mentioned. Yes, I enjoyed Mr. Callahan’s religion class, and it was great to learn to be a spiritual leader among my peers on retreat, but the greatest impact Mr. Callahan made on my life was the consistent way he always seemed to have time for me. Whether it was stopping by the pastoral office after school before cross country practice, lunchtime meetings about upcoming retreats, or a friendly hello in passing in the hallway between classes, Mr. Michael Callahan always made time for me in high school, and that has made all the difference since. Thank you Mr. Callahan for inspiring me to be a “man for others” as Christ Our Lord was.

Leeman is religion teacher at Central Catholic High School in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood.

Dr. Switala


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Prayer of a student in school

Dear Lord, you are truth itself. Everything I learn and discover is but a further penetration into you who are the way, the truth and the life. My studies are difficult at times. Because of the fall of our first parents, my mind has been darkened and my will weakened. By your grace and by using the talents you have given me, I must work to the best of my ability to come to a greater understanding of your power and ways in the things of this world which lead to heaven.

Help me, dear Lord, to develop the powers you have placed in my intellect and to willingly share your knowledge with others. Amen.


RULES/DISCLAIMER: To enter, complete the entry form here and mail it no later than Friday, October 26, 2012, to: CIRCUS CONTEST, PITTSBURGH CATHOLIC, 135 FIRST AVENUE, SUITE 200, PITTSBURGH PA 15222-1513; FAXES ACCEPTED AT 412-471-4228. Employees of the Pittsburgh Catholic Publishing Associates and Diocesan headquarters are not eligible. One entry per household.

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