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The Furniture Project
of Chapel Hill offers hope
to families in transition
Bishop’s Annual Appeal March for Life Consecrated Life
BAA in action: Thousands Witness to Catholic school
Campus Ministry the Sanctity of Human students learn about
‘cultivates disciples’ Life in Raleigh and Consecrated life
Washington, D.C.
f r o m t h e b i s h o p
One March Madness to avoid
T
he title of this month’s article might be a surprise, as many of you know that I
am an avid sports fan, especially when it comes to college basketball. However,
I am not referring to the “March Madness” that will get the attention of sports-
minded fans who have the hope that all the teams in our Diocese (note how
diplomatic I am being here) will do extremely well in the NCAA Basketball Tournament.
Like any other month, March can
bring a certain “madness” to our lives
if we allow ourselves to be consumed
with constant activity, noise and motion
and to be overwhelmed by the daily
responsibilities and duties we all have. No
matter our circumstances in life, Jesus
desires that we are freed from such
anxiety and distress, so as to embrace
the peace and serenity He offers.
The sacred Season of Lent offers us
a way out of the “madness” as we are
called to embrace anew the spiritual
disciplines of prayer, fasting and
almsgiving. These disciplines are time-
tested and lead us on a path freed from
chaos to a calm that brings order and
purpose to our lives. With God’s grace,
may we return to these disciplines with a
strong commitment.
To avoid the “madness” of daily living,
our days must begin and end with and His selfless service. I remain deeply
prayer. A Morning Offering is essential, inspired by the many ways our parishes
as is an Examination of Conscience at are engaged in our outreach to others
Night. Pausing in the course of a day to who need us the most and by the
remember the holy presence of God in incredible generosity of our parishioners.
our midst will settle our hearts and regain I also express renewed thanks for your
the necessary focus we must have. gifts to the Bishop’s Annual Appeal,
We all know the “madness” that can which supports the tremendous work of
come from an abuse of technology. Catholic Charities and other ministries
Fasting not only from an excess of that seek to bring the healing love of
material things but in the time we spend Jesus to others.
with constant emailing and texting can The March Madness that allows us
lead us to spend quality time listening to root for our favorite teams is a good
to others and giving them our undivided outlet for sports fans and one we should
attention. Such a fasting will also help to enjoy. The March Madness that leads us
create sacred space for us to speak and to be consumed with worldly things and
to listen to God. forgets the spiritual disciplines of prayer,
Being consumed with individual fasting and almsgiving is to be avoided,
needs and personal fulfillment lead to so that we may experience the renewal,
a “madness” that forgets the sacrificial peace and serenity that Jesus offers to us
giving required of all of us. Almsgiving in this sacred season and always.
and the sharing of ourselves and
resources with others, especially those – Bishop Michael F. Burbidge is the fifth Bishop
in most need, allow us to imitate Jesus of the Diocese of Raleigh
NC Catholics 2 March 2015 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org Liturgical Calendar: Second Sunday of Lent March 1 | St. Katharine Drexe
t a b l e o f c o n t e n t s
inside
Most Reverend
Michael F. Burbidge
this issue
PUBLISHER
Billy Atwell
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS From the Bishop
March 2015 • Vol. 12 : Issue 1 2 One March Madness to
Richard Reece avoid
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Anjanette Wiley
ADVERTISING MANAGER
Consecrated Life
Bishop Michael F. Burbidge
Father Carlos Arce 7 Catholic school students
William Cardona learn about Consecrated
Ryan Flood
Father Marcos Leon life
Sofia Moyano-Kleckner
Kate Turgeon Watson
Anjanette Wiley Catholic Charities
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
10 Immigration Assistance
Lettie Banda
TRANSLATOR
One Faith,
One People
14
11 F
ruits of the Cathedral
Patrick M. O’Brien Campus Campaign
PRESIDENT/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Elizabeth Solsburg
DIRECTOR OF CUSTOM PUBLISHING/ Saint of the Month
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
12 Make it a family affair
Patrick Dally
ART DIRECTOR
NC CathlolicsTM (USPS 715-940) is a membership publi- AAMEN Corner
cation of the Catholic Diocese of Raleigh, 7200 Stonehenge
Drive, Raleigh, NC 27613. Published Monthly except for 12 Our Knights and Ladies
February and August. Subscription rates are $16 per year.
Individual issues are $2.00. Advertising inquiries, subscrip- of Saint Peter Claver
tion requests and address changes can be sent to 7200
Stonehenge Drive, Raleigh, NC 27613; 919.821.9700; – Father Marcos Leon
fax 919.821.9705 or e-mail ncc@raldioc.org. Periodicals
Postage Paid at Raleigh, NC or additional offices. POST-
MASTER: Send address changes to: 7200 Stone-
henge Drive, Raleigh, NC 27613. ©2013 FAITH
From the Editor
8
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Catholic Diocese of Raleigh provided content. No
portion of NC Catholics may be published, broad- 13 S aint Michael’s Grotto
cast, rewritten or otherwise reproduced or distributed
in whole or in part, without prior written authority of for the Unborn
FAITH CatholicTM and/or Diocese of Raleigh. For reprint
information or other questions regarding use of copyright – Richard Reece
material, contact NC Catholics, Catholic Diocese of Raleigh.
Give the gift of Culture
NCCatholics: Order a
18 L
ighting the way of the
subscription today
ncc@raldioc.org cross – Michelle DiFranco
Pope Watch
30 What Pope Francis has
Thousands Witness to the Sanctity of Human Life been saying and doing
in Raleigh and Washington, D.C. recently
e l h i s pano C at ól i co
Obispo Burbidge Caridades Católicas el hispano Católico Ministerio Hispano La naturaleza de
nuestra fe
20 La “Locura de 21 Asistencia de 22 Convertir la casa 23 Camino hacia
Marzo” (March Inmigración en un hogar el Encuentro 24 “Fortalezcan sus
Madness) que Mundial de Familias, corazones”
debemos evitar Actividad Parroquial
de Marzo
el, virgin March 3 | St. Casimir March 4 | Ss. Perpetua and Felicity, martyrs March 7 | Third Sunday of Lent March 8 | St. Francis of Rome, religious March 9 | Fourth Sunday of Lent March 15
l ocal new s
Bishop Celebrates Mass of Thanksgiving
for the Gift of Consecrated Life
On Saturday, January 31, Bishop Michael F. Burbidge Catholic Schools Week
celebrated a Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in
Raleigh in thanksgiving for the Gift of Consecrated Life. Sunday, January 25 marked the beginning of Catholic
Specially recognized at the Mass were six consecrated Schools Week throughout the country. The Diocese of
women with a total of 330 years of service to the Church Raleigh joined with other dioceses to acknowledge the
and God’s people. The women renewed their commitment significant role that Catholic schools play in the formation
to consecrated life and were blessed by the Bishop. At the of our young people. Schools across the Diocese planned
conclusion of Mass, Ms. Theresa Davis of Madonna House special events, service projects and speaker presentations,
offered a reflection on the ministry of Madonna House and and Bishop Burbidge visited with students at four schools
the nature of consecrated life. (See video in web story.) during the week.
Lewis Award Finalists Announced
Men’s Conference
Finalists for the 2014-2015 Msgr. Gerald L. Lewis
On January 24th, the Feast of Saint Francis De Sales, Award for Excellence in Teaching were announced in
the 2nd Annual Catholic Men’s Conference convened at January: Mrs. Karen Clark, 6-8th grade Science teacher
Saint Thomas More Parish in Chapel Hill, with approxi- at Immaculata Catholic School in Durham; Mrs. Barbara
mately 300 men in attendance. The conference featured Lamblin, K-8th Resource; 6-8th Religion; certified ELA
Dave Dinuzzo Sr., founder of truemanhood.com. Mr. 6-9th at Saint John Paul II Catholic School in South-
Dinuzzo’s ministry is devoted to spreading the concept of ern Pines; and Mrs. Cynthia Messina, K-8th grade Art
authentic masculinity in the image of Jesus Christ, teaching teacher at Saint Raphael the Archangel Catholic School
virtue while fighting pornography. in Raleigh.
NC Catholics 4 March 2015 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org St. Patrick, bishop March 17 | St. Cyril of Jerusalem, bishop and
Diocese observes
Week of Prayer for
Christian Unity
The Diocese of Raleigh
observed the Week of
Prayer for Christian Unity
by joining an Ecumenical
Celebration of the Word of
God held Tuesday, January
Pope to Canonize 20, 2015 at Genesis
Blessed Junipero United Methodist Church
Serra in Cary. Participants from
faith communities such
Pope Francis said his as the Catholic, Baptist,
September trip to the U.S. Seventh Day Adventist and
will take him to Philadelphia, United Methodist Churches
New York and Washington were united in prayer and
– where he intends to song. Bishop Michael
canonize Blessed Junipero F. Burbidge, Monsignor
Serra. The 18th-century David D. Brockman and
Spanish Franciscan Friar was Monsignor John A. Wall
instrumental in establishing joined with other religious
missions in California. leaders.
For details and more photos of these and other
news stories, go to our Diocesan website,
www.dioceseofraleigh.org.
AAMEN service project
marks Martin Luther
King Day
On Monday, January 19th,
the Office of African Ances-
try Ministry & Evangelization
(AAMEN) led the Diocesan
observance of the Dr. Martin
Luther King, Jr. holiday
with a service project in
the Cathedral School hall,
followed by Mass at Sacred
Heart Cathedral. More than
100 volunteers collected
and sorted approximately a
ton and a half of clothing for
Note in the Pocket (a local
non-profit), assembled 500
toiletry kits for distribution to
the less fortunate, and wrote
notes of encouragement to
the imprisoned and home-
bound.
d doctor of the Church March 18 | Solemnity of St. Joseph, spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary March 19 | Fifth Sunday of Lent March 22 | St. Turibius of Mogrovejo, bishop March 23
Find inspiration and information
from your Diocese on YouTube
www.YouTube.com/DioceseofRaleigh
A Catholic Life Podcast – Lisa Henley of CatholicMom. The Truth About Pornography – Dave DiNuzzo of
com and LisaHendey.com speaks with host Billy Atwell about TrueManhood.com speaks with “A Catholic Life” host Billy Atwell
how to make sure we are always putting others first and being about the true impact and damage caused by pornography, a lesson
generous with the lives that we live. She also shares candid learned from his own experience.
moments of her life as a mother and wife, trying to do the best
for her family.
Reflection on Religious Life – Ms. Theresa Davis, M.H.M 2015 Bishop’s Annual Appeal – The Gospel mandate, and
gives her reflection on religious life and her many years of an unwavering emphasis of Pope Francis, is that our love for God
service in the Diocese of Raleigh. must be reflected in our love for one another, especially the weak
and vulnerable. In response to that call, our Diocese remains fully
committed to increasing our outreach to feed, clothe, educate and
pray with those in most need of assistance.
Plus news, insights and words from our Bishop: La Voz Catolica | A Catholic Life | Raleigh to Rome | Bishop Burbidge Homilies & Messages
Search
Diocese of Raleigh
in iTunes
to find:
Bishop Burbidge Raleigh to Rome A Catholic Life La Voz Catolica
NC Catholics 6 March 2015
2014 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org
C o n s e c r a t e d L i f e
On Saturday, February 7, the Sisters Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary
of Immaculata, PA had an open house to celebrate the Year of Consecrated Life.
Catholic school students
learn about Consecrated life
During Catholic Schools Week, January 25-30, 2015,
several women religious from the Diocese of Raleigh
visited Catholic school classrooms to introduce students of
various ages to Consecrated religious life and to answer
their questions.
On Sunday, January 25, Sr. Rose Adams, IHM, led a
panel of sisters, including Sr. Laura Downing, IHM (resid-
ing at OLL); Sr. Judy Hallock, CSC and Sr. Mary Margaret
Weber, CSC (directors of A Place for Women to Gather);
and Sr. Fadia LaHoud, retired. They spoke to 385 chil-
dren, youth, and parents at Saint Raphael’s Ignatius Hall.
Students in attendance watched a video prepared by the
Diocese, “Witnesses to Consecrated Life,” then each panel
member shared a brief story of her life and ministry.
The students then had an opportunity to ask the Sisters
questions about their work, and about discerning vocations
to consecrated life. Students learned about the found- gel Catholic School in Cary to speak about Consecrated
ers of several religious congregations, about habits and Life and show the video to students. Sr. Rose spoke to the
communities, and sought answers to some deeper ques- Middle School and Sr. Anne shared her story with 1st and
tions: “What made you want to be a consecrated woman?” 2nd graders. Photo: Sr. Anne Heath talked to young Saint
“What do you think you gained or lost by embracing Con- Michael students about her vocation.
secrated life?” “To whom should I talk if I feel God might
be calling me to Consecrated life?”
Following the presentation, panel members were avail-
able to the students for one-on-one conversations.
Saint Raphael Coordinator of Faith Formation and Sac-
ramental Preparation for Children Linda Lenzmeier said
of the event, “Our hope and achievement was to give the
families in our parish an introduction to the many and var-
ied ministries of consecrated religious in our Diocese. For
many of the children, this was the first time they’ve ever
met a living, breathing religious sister. It was especially fun
for our youngest children to ‘picture themselves’ as a sister,
brother, or priest.” (See photo.)
On Thursday, January 29, Sr. Rose Adams, IHM, and
Sr. Anne Heath, MSW, visited Saint Michael the Archan-
Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord March 25 | Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord March 29
l o c a l n e w s
Thousands Witness
to the Sanctity
of Human Life
in Raleigh and
Washington, D.C.
In January, pro-life Catholics from across the state and
country marked the 42nd anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the
controversial Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion
in the U.S., by praying, rallying and marching for the cause
of protecting human life.
In Raleigh, more than 1500 Catholic youth and adults
from across the Diocese attended the 5th annual Love My
Life pro-life rally in a giant tent on Halifax Mall behind the
State Legislative Building. The rally featured contemporary
Christian music by musicians from Saint Francis of Assisi
Parish in Raleigh, and keynote speaker Matt Fradd, who for
nearly an hour kept his young audience engaged while they
also learned theology. Afterwards Bishop Michael F. Bur-
bidge celebrated Mass and, in his homily, Bishop Burbidge
said, “We are here today to call all persons by the name that
reflects reality as so beautifully proclaimed in our Readings
today: They are, from the moment of conception to natural
death, God’s creation; God’s children, created in His very
image and likeness; in whom His very spirit dwells. And thus
their lives must be revered, protected and cherished at every
moment. When people like us refuse to accept the irrational
and incorrect labels that society so often uses in references
to the unborn and all human persons and instead call them
by their true names, they will hear the voice that truly matters
and will discover how precious they are in the sight of God,
to the Church and to us.”
On January 22, 2015, roughly 2000 Catholics from
the Diocese of Raleigh convened in Washington DC for
the 42nd Annual March for Life. The day began with the
NC Mass For Life celebrated by Bishop Michael Burbidge
and a homily delivered by Bishop Peter Jugis of Charlotte
at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate
Conception. Bishop Jugis noted three ways we should
witness for life: 1. Advocate for full legal protection for
unborn children; 2. Do all we can to support pregnant
mothers and fathers so that they choose life and do not feel
alone; 3. Bring ourselves closer to Christ himself, as our
guide on this road of prayer and advocacy.
After the Mass, the large crowd rode buses and pub-
lic transportation to the U.S. Navy Memorial to join as a
unified group and march together. They participated in
the March with hundreds of thousands of marchers at the
National Mall. The group cheered and celebrated life in all
stages with a positive message of hope that this will be the
generation that ends the tragedy of abortion.
NC Catholics 8 March 2015 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org
C a t h o l i c C h a r i t i e s
Immigration
Assistance
Last year, on November 20th President Obama an-
nounced an executive action regarding immigration. Con-
suelo Kwee, Director of Immigration Services of Catholic
Charities will explain what this executive action means
to the thousands of immigrant families who live in the
Diocese of Raleigh and what Catholic Charities is doing to
assist in the process.
As the Director of the Immigration Services Pro-
gram, what would you like to accomplish in short Father Robert Ippolito, BIA representative, assisted the
term? I would like to staff each of our eight regional of- Guerrero brothers with application for DACA.
fices with an Immigration Specialist who is accredited by
the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). They are not im- ments they will need for the coming
migration lawyers but professionals who have undertaken regulations. In these community
advanced training to become accredited by the BIA. The sessions we also create awareness
BIA immigration specialist can legally provide immigra- about possible fraud. (In most Latin
tion assistance and follow up their client’s case with U.S. America countries only lawyers can
Citizenship and Immigration Services. become public notaries. In the U.S.
you do not need to be a lawyer to
On November 20th of 2014, President Obama an- become a public notary. Unfortu-
nounced an executive action. What does it mean, nately, some individuals who become public notaries in the
and what implication will it have to the immigrant U.S. may use that title to deceive Latin American families
families who live in the Diocese? The purpose of by offering expensive legal and immigration services they
these executive actions is to restrain illegal immigration are not qualified to provide.)
at the border, deport felons (not families), and ensure ac- Once the regulations are announced and applications
countability. are available, Catholic Charities will provide Application
The implications for the immigrant families of the Dio- Workshops for DACA and DAPA. During these workshops
cese are extensive: Catholic Charities BIA Immigration Specialists and trained
More immigrants who came to the USA as children will volunteers will provide guidance on: how to complete the
be included in the expanded Deferred Action for Childhood application, which documents individuals may need when
Arrivals (DACA). The expansion of DACA will include submitting the applications, and the review of complicated
those who entered the country as children before January applications. After an individual attends an application
1, 2010 regardless of how old they are at this time. To workshop, Catholic Charities will schedule an Application
qualify they will also have to meet certain education and Review Session with individual applicants to review docu-
public safety criteria. ments and recommend next steps.
There will also be a new deferred action program for
parents of US Citizens or resident children if they have Will Catholic Charities charge for the services
lived in the country for five (5) years or more. This new provided in the community by the BIA immigra-
deferred action for parents (DAPA) is contingent on them tion specialists? Yes. There is no fee for the Community
registering, passing a background check, and demonstrat- Information Sessions but there will be a nominal fee of
ing that their child was born before the date of the an- $25 for the Application Workshops, and $100 for the first
nouncement of the executive action. Application Review Session and $75 for each additional
session.
What is Catholic Charities doing to inform and assist
people regarding these executive actions? Catholic If you would like more information about Catholic Chari-
Charities will provide three distinctive presentations: Com- ties Immigration Services or to schedule a presentation,
munity Information Sessions, Application Workshops and contact Consuelo Kwee at 919.821.8148 or send her an
Application Review Sessions. We have already hosted email at Consuelo.kwee@raldioc.org .
several Community Information Sessions throughout the You can also visit www.CatholicCharitiesRaleigh.
diocese to inform families about what deferred action org/events/ to find out the dates and locations of upcom-
is, who might qualify, and what type of supporting docu- ing sessions and workshops.
NC Catholics 10 March 2015 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.orgO n e Fai t h, O ne Peopl e
also coming to fruition. Over $30 million was pledged in
the campaign for parish and local needs, as well as for
charitable and pastoral initiatives. Those pledges were also
designated to fund the 2012 Bishop’s Annual Appeal,
which provides for a wide range of services like Catholic
Charities, seminarian education, Catholic education, youth
ministry, and much more.
Since the Groundbreaking
On January 3, 2015,
hundreds of Diocesan faith-
ful gathered on the Naza-
reth property for the bless-
ing and groundbreaking of
the site for the future Holy
Name of Jesus Cathedral.
Since then, work has begun
Fruits of the Cathedral Campus Campaign on clearing and grading the site in preparation for building.
The next phase is expected this summer, when workers
As the Cathedral comes closer and closer to a reality, will begin to construct the concrete footings for the church
other projects enabled by the Cathedral Campaign are building.
Stations of the Cross, March 13th represented in the Diocese, such as the offices of African
Ancestry Evangelization and Ministry (AAMEN), the office
All Diocesan faithful are invited to gather at the site of of Hispanic Ministry, Catholic Schools, Youth Ministry and
our future cathedral for Stations of the Cross on Friday, Consecrated Religious. Representatives of the groups will
March 13th. The prayer will begin at 6:30pm. Each sta- stand awaiting the prayers of each station and then join
tion will be marked by a different ministry/cultural identity together in the procession.
HolyNameCathedralNC.org @HolynameNC HolyNameCathedralRaleighSai nt of t he Mont h A AM E N Co rner
Our Knights
and Ladies of Saint
Peter Claver
W
hy is it that mostly women are the
ones who hand down the faith
generation after generation? Quite
Make it a
simply because it was a woman who
brought us Jesus. It’s the path Jesus
family affair chose. He wanted to have a mother and chose to come to the
world through Mary. – Pope Francis, Homily on January 26,
Saint Gregory of Nyssa Chapel of the Domus Sanctae Marthae.
Feast day: March 9 Seven years ago a group of
African American Catholic
Every Christian is called to holiness. By living out this men and women, under the
call in our own state of life, a call that necessarily tends direction of the late Msgr.
toward perfection in love, we can help others grow in Thomas Paul Hadden, came
holiness as well. The Second Vatican Council document together and started the first
Lumen Gentium puts it this way: “It is therefore quite and thus far only Knights of
clear that all Christians in any state or walk of life are Saint Peter Claver council and
called to the fullness of Christian life and to the perfection court in the Diocese of Ra-
of love, and by this holiness a more human manner of life leigh. The council is named
is fostered also in earthly society.” (para. 40) after Msgr. Hadden and the
The story of the fourth century saint Gregory of Nyssa court is named after Saint
bears witness to this reality. Saint Gregory was known as Monica.
one of the “Cappadocian Fathers”, along with his brother, The women have been, like the women Pope Francis
Saint Basil the Great, and Saint Gregory of Nazianzus. spoke of in his homily in January, bringing the faith to
However, the family of Saint Gregory was steeped in holy the needy across the Diocese. They are not only strong
men and women. In addition to Saint Gregory and Saint supporters of the events of the Diocesan AAMEN offices,
Basil, three other siblings went on to become saints: but they bring their influence to bear in parish outreach
Saint Macrina the Younger, Saint Naucratius and Saint ministries as well. They have supported the Open Door
Peter of Sebaste. ministry at Sacred Heart Cathedral and backpack buddies
Saint Gregory’s parents were the primary witnesses for at Holy Cross, Durham.
these saints as they grew up. As a couple, they had suf- To raise money for their programs they have their annual
fered persecution for their faith including, as Saint Grego- fish fry at the Saint Monica Center on the campus of Sacred
ry tells us, having their goods confiscated for confessing Heart Cathedral. (This year Friday, March 27, noon to 7 p.m.)
Christ. Saint Gregory’s grandmother, Macrina the Elder, It’s not unusual for people walking by to stop in and purchase
is revered as a saint and his grandfather was martyred for a meal; or for people to alter the route home to participate
the faith during the persecution of the Roman Emperor in the annual event. The women approach the fish fry with
Maximinus II. the same dedication and love as they give all their programs.
Saint Gregory attended the first Council of Constan- They see God in all they are serving and they allow the God
tinople in 381, during which the Nicene Creed was in them to show in their service to others.
confirmed. The Trinitarian discourse of the Cappadocian No doubt that these women are living accordingly to the
Fathers was influential at this council. Saint Gregory also teachings of Jesus and the example of Saint Peter Claver.
traveled to Arabia to settle disputes among the churches Let us echo in our daily lives the words of this great saint,
in that region. He is thought of as an original thinker, and who inspires us this Lenten season to reflect on the will of
is well-known for his theological writings on the Trinity God: “To do the will of God, man must despise his own; the
and universal salvation. more he dies to himself, the more he will live to God.” Let
Saint Gregory and his family serve as an example of us prepare our souls for the great celebration of our salva-
the responsibility we have to each other to both walk the tion. May God be praised!
path to holiness ourselves and to help our brothers and
sisters in Christ along the way. – Father Marcos Leon, Vicar for African Ancestry CatholicsFro m the Ed ito r
Are You a New Resident of North Carolina?
Saint Michael’s Grotto
Have you or a family member recently moved to North
Carolina? If so, then one matter you may want to address is for the Unborn
T
whether your estate planning documents need to be modified
or updated to bring them into conformity with North Carolina his month I received a letter about a worthy pro-
law. The substantive language within the will is generally not life effort in our Diocese’s largest parish:
an issue, but more often the problem is that, under North Car- “Following most daily and Sunday masses at Saint
olina law, out-of-state wills may be probated here only if they Michael the Archangel Church in Cary you will see
meet North Carolina’s requirements for a validly executed will. several people quietly standing before a captivating
Many times, out-of-state wills do not meet these particular reproduction of a 17th century painting of the Immaculate
signature, self-proving, and notary requirements. In addition, Conception surrounded by 27 babies. The people say a short
estate planning documents that commonly derive from spe- prayer, asking God for His protection of an unborn child, known
cific statutory authority, such as durable powers of attorney, but to Him, who may be in danger of abortion. In less than a
health care powers of attorney, and advance directives, are minute, they renew their petition, and they are the off on their way.
typically very different from state to state. Some states may
recognize certain matters that fall within the realm of a health “This area inside the sanctuary
care agent’s authority while others may not. Some states at Saint Michael is called the
might allow an individual to make certain end-of-life decisions Grotto for the Unborn. Since its
in certain particular medical situations, while other states might installment in October of 2013,
recognize different medical situations. One might also want nearly 400 people have made a
to make sure these documents and the decisions made with signed commitment to spiritually
them conform to Church teachings. adopt an unborn child and to pray
Ultimately, these questions can best be answered by visiting for the child every day for at least
with a North Carolina-licensed estate planning attorney who nine months. The Grotto is a way to
can review the out-of-state documents and offer suggestions emphasize that faithful prayer needs
on changes that might need to be made to bring them into to be the impetus for all of our
compliance with North Carolina law. other efforts to deepen the respect
Resources: How The Office of Stewardship and Ad- for life.
vancement Can Help. For a free copy of the Catholic Estate “The Grotto had its beginning in the late fall of 2012 when
and Personal Planning Workbook please contact Ryan Flood, Chuck Elms, a Saint Michael parishioner, was sitting on a bench
at 919-821-9774 or email him at ryan.flood@raldioc.org. inside the narthex of the church, waiting for his son to pick him
– Ryan Flood, CFRE is the Director of Special Gifts for the Diocese of Raleigh and a up after Mass. He was staring at a blank, recessed part of the
parishioner at St. Catherine of Siena in Wake Forest. wall, and his mind began to form an image of a grotto. A retired
engineer, whose early career began at NASA, Chuck imagined a
Diocesan Faithful Thanked for painting of a collage of babies in a blue sky amongst the clouds,
Generosity to National Collections and below it a vigil light stand with prayer cards. Eventually
Chuck approached his pastor, Fr. Doug Reed, who encouraged
In 2014, the faithful of the Diocese of Raleigh him to develop his plan.
contributed generously to national collections to “At Fr. Doug Reed’s suggestion Chuck spoke with Wayne
help support the Church’s pastoral work at home Cusher, parish Director of Music and Liturgy, who remarked
and around the world. Recently and gratefully ac- that the Grotto needed to be inside the sanctuary and not in the
knowledged were the following: narthex because people would want to stand before it to pray.
After much research and more consultation with Fr. Doug and
• Collection for the Church in Central and Eastern others, and the approval of the Parish Council, the Grotto was
Europe: $77,168.90 installed. It was dedicated at a Mass on Respect Life Sunday on
• Collection for the Catholic Communication Cam- October 6, 2013.
paign: $32,855.41 “If your parish or school is interested in making a similar
• Catholic Home Mission Appeal: $99,492.86 place for prayer, kits are available that include all of the files and
• Collection for the Church in Latin America: instructions needed to implement a Grotto for the Unborn. A CD
$82,103.58 of the kit can be obtained by contacting Chuck Elms at cpelms@
• Catholic Relief Services Collection: $99,371.24 peoplepc.com.”
• Peter’s Pence Collection: $100,555.92
The total amount donated to these causes was Thanks for your letters and emails and kind
$491,547.91. suggestions. You can reach me at 7200 Stonehenge Drive,
Raleigh, NC 27613 or reece@raldioc.org.
Follow the Diocese of Raleigh onNC Catholics 14 March 2015 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.org
F
ROM THE OUTSIDE, it is not much to look at, this squat, cream colored storage unit that is indistin-
guishable from its neighbors in the gated facility overlooking a busy thoroughfare in Durham. What the
unit houses, however, tells a distinct story.
On a recent, sun-splashed winter’s afternoon, Jane and Jeff Hathaway raise the unit’s door to reveal
wall-to-wall furniture, from mattresses and bed frames to tables and lamps and myriad items in be-
tween. These donated furnishings are for the neediest of families - those transitioning from crisis or
homelessness into permanent housing - in eastern and southern Orange County. These furnishings will help them
make a house a home and, in the process, offer them hope.
By Rachelle D. GarbarineT
HIS IS THE MIS-
SION of The Furniture
Project, which the Ha-
thaways initiated in
2012 out of compas-
sion, charity, and faith.
Today, it is an interdenominational
ministry of 15 different faith com-
munities, one synagogue, The Inter-
Faith Council, and three businesses
under the guidance of The Catholic
Community of Saint Thomas More
in Chapel Hill, where the Hathaways
are parishioners.
To date, the ministry has collected fur-
niture and other household items from
more than 1,000 donors, and helped
over 340 individuals and families
through referrals from non-profit and
government agencies. Among those
helped are veterans, new immigrants,
people aging out of the foster care sys-
tem, the unemployed and the working
poor, as well as victims of domestic
violence and such natural disasters as
the 2013 floods that damaged homes
in Chapel Hill. The program has even
given rise to a sister ministry in Durham, spearheaded by a group make that happen. It is our calling.”
of volunteers at Immaculate Conception Church. It is a calling the couple says they could only accomplish with
Since the start of The Furniture Project, the Hathaways have the help of the churches, donors, and of course, volunteers, who
also collected stories that illustrate its impact. There is, for in- pick up the furniture at no cost to the donors, store it in facili-
stance, the divorced father who, left with no place to live, moved ties donated to the ministry, and distribute it to recipients free of
into a motel with his two children. After draining their finances charge. There is also the network of advocates who recommend
the family, with the help of a social services group, relocated to a the people who would benefit most from the project. Advocates in-
one-bedroom apartment that was virtually empty – no beds for clude the Veterans Administration, the Inter-Faith Council’s Men’s
the children to sleep in, no dishes to share meals, not even a sofa and Women’s Shelters, Catholic Charities, and the Red Cross. To
to sit on and relax. the Hathaways, these are The Furniture Project’s care team.
The Furniture Project provided all those essentials – and more. Through their involvement with Support Circles in Orange
When the Hathaways first met the father he was depressed and County, which helps one family at a time to find housing and
feeling hopeless, Jeff Hathaway recalls. “We came back the next gives them the basics necessary to live, the couple recognized
day with a few more things and the impact of the earlier delivery that the need was deeper than first realized, and that there were
had taken hold; the father was a different person, and confident no organizations solely dedicated to providing furnishings. They
that everything was going to be fine,” he adds. also knew there were people willing to donate.
The Hathaways say such transformations are frequent.
Many describe The Furniture Project as a simple idea that A family rejuvenated
meets a complex need: take people’s castaway furniture and
household goods and give them new life in the home of the com- So, when the next family asked for furniture, the Hathaways
munity’s needy. These people, Jane Hathaways says, may have turned for help to Saint Thomas More. Help came in the name of
housing, but after basic expenses such as rent, food, and clothing Jim Hynes, a Saint Thomas More staff member and parishioner,
are paid, have little if anything left for furnishings we take for who was getting married and no longer needed the furnishings
granted. in his apartment. That was the moment when starting the Fur-
They are the people who are making minimum wage, who niture Project “seemed doable,” Jane says. The reason was that a
work in the service industry in area hotels, restaurants, colleges, solution quickly revealed itself, a trend that continues, she notes,
she notes. “They are vital to our communities; we need to keep adding that while she and her husband started the project, “the
them here, and The Furniture Project is our part in helping to Holy Spirit took it over and we have been chasing Him ever since.”
NC Catholics 16 March 2015 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.orgAs longtime volunteers at the Inter-Faith Men’s Shelter in down- ed the package by providing furniture at no cost to families who
town Chapel Hill, the Hathaways also understood the plight of would not have been able to purchase furniture on their own.”
the homeless. The rate of residents returning to homelessness
traditionally is high, but The Furniture Project has helped to Why people help
change that in our area because when given furniture, people
“work harder to make where they live their own,” Jane notes, her Donations to The Furniture Project are tax-deductible, but that
voice tinged with pride. is not the reason donors give. Curt and Donna Hardy, Pittsboro
Fr. Scott McCue, pastor of Saint Thomas More, is also proud residents and St Thomas More parishioners, have donated several
of The Furniture Project, one of times to the project, giving such
his parish’s 20 outreach minis- items as a twin bed, a bookcase,
tries. “The Furniture Project is a dresser, and a sofa bed.
a natural fit in what we do – “We need to come together as
servicing those most in need of a community to help folks who
seeing the face of Christ in our are less fortunate,” Donna Har-
midst,” Fr. Scott notes. “It is one dy says. “We don’t feel so guilty
way we as a parish can spread about buying a new piece of fur-
the Good News of our faith to niture once in a while now, be-
folks trying to start their lives cause our good old furniture will
over and need some very basic go to someone who needs it.”
things.” As for the project’s future, Fr.
He is also more than a little Scott says there are always go-
amazed at the speed at which ing to be people in this area in
the project not only has grown need to serve. The Hathaways
in terms of member churches agree, adding that their hope
and businesses, but has so is to inspire other ministries to
compassionately brought to- HOW TO DONATE start, just as the Furniture Proj-
gether the haves and have nots. ect of Durham did 14 months
A bed, a table, a sofa, and dishes help make a house ago and has since helped over
2013 floods a home. And they are just some of the items the volun- 100 families. Added goals are
teers of The Furniture Project, an outreach ministry of St. to expand into other parts of
Fr. Scott describes The Fur- Thomas More Church in Chapel Hill, collect from donors Orange County, involve more
niture Project as the Gospel in and distribute to the disadvantaged free of charge. Gen- churches, and secure addition-
Action: For whatever you do erally, the ministry accepts gently used household essen- al storage, notes Jane.
unto the least of my people tials and basic furniture. It, however, does not take bulky, Meanwhile, the Hathaways
you do unto me. As proof, he oversized pieces. Among the items the ministry needs and their volunteers will con-
points to the summer of 2013. most are: bed frames, bedding, bedroom furniture, tinue their work; fueled by
That is when heavy rains and couches, coffee tables, and lamps, as well as kitchen “thank yous” from people they
flooding forced many people in and small dining room tables and chairs. Volunteers pick have assisted. One is a disabled
Chapel Hill from their homes. up furniture from all parts of Orange County, Southern Vietnam Vet who finally left
That is when The Furniture Durham County, Western Cary, and Northern Chatham the streets for an assisted liv-
Project, together with the Red County, notes Jane Hathaway, who with her husband, ing apartment they helped to
Cross and Catholic Charities, Jeff, serves as the ministry’s directors. Donations are tax- furnish, which he described as
was there to help. deductible and donors receive a tax donation form. If you the “best foxhole” he ever had.
Many people affected lived would like to donate, call Jane at 919.612.2759 or Jeff
near the church and had their at 919.612.0922, or e-mail them at FurnitureProjec- The project’s future
lives changed overnight, Fr. tOC@gmail.com. Donors may also contact the group’s
Scott recalls. “We held a fur- sister organization, The Furniture Project of Durham, at There is also the young man
niture drive and I remember FPODRequest@gmail.com who aged out of the foster care
lines of cars coming in, and system. “He was overwhelmed
volunteers pulling out stuff by your generosity and abso-
that filled the auditorium of our school,” he notes. “It was great lutely delighted with the many items you provided,” Denise Shaffer,
to see how fast people mobilized to aid our brothers and sisters.” assistant director of the Orange County Department of Social Ser-
Lisa Perkins, Regional Director at Catholic Charities, Piedmont, vices, wrote in a flyer for The Furniture Project. “Never doubt what a
adds that The Furniture Project was instrumental in her agency’s significant difference you make in people’s lives. You certainly made
ability to assist families in fully recovering after the Chapel Hill a difference for this young man.”
floods. “Catholic Charities was able to provide clients with case On this day, as the afternoon light begins to fade and the cold
management, counseling when needed, food, and disaster funds air turns icy, the Hathaways are eager to get back to work – back
to stabilize their housing needs,” she notes. “Catholic Charities’ to making a difference, back to collecting furniture and provid-
partnership with Saint Thomas More’s Furniture Project complet- ing hope.Lighting the way of the cross
I
’ll never forget the time back in high school Stations of the Cross
when my dad put the kibosh on my much- TEA LIGHT STAND
anticipated Friday night plans. There was
nothing particularly unacceptable about For this project you will need:
the planned activities … except that they were
• Piece of wood measuring at least 6” x 12” (can be
frivolous – and it was Lent.
found pre-cut at an arts and crafts store)
• Acrylic craft paint
I wasn’t too happy about season, just as my dad did so • Patterned scrapbook paper
his decision then, but, looking many years ago. • Scissors or craft knife
back, I get it. He wasn’t being While a parish commu- • Sand paper
“old fashioned.” He was just nity is typically encouraged • Craft or decoupage glue
doing what every to come to the • Spray varnish (optional)
Christian parent is church every Fri- • 14 printed Stations of the Cross
called to do, and, day during Lent to • 14 tea lights
as it turned out, pray the Stations
T. Gennara
he was participat- of the Cross, the Trim each printed station to size (small enough so seven will
ing in my faith stations can be fit on each end of wood). Set aside. Paint and decorate (with
formation. Lent is prayed anywhere. patterned paper) surface and sides of the wood. Adhere Sta-
a time reserved for culture For those who tions of the Cross to the outermost edge of the wood, so that
somber meditation, find it difficult they are in order counterclockwise. Allow it to dry, and then
Michelle
fasting and pray- DiFranco is a to be away from lightly sand edges to give the piece a slightly distressed look.
ing. It is not meant designer and the home on Friday, Apply a coat of decoupage glue or spray varnish, and allow
busy mom of
to be “unhappy.” two children. or for those who piece to dry completely. Place each tea light behind each sta-
But if we are not may want to tion (in center of wood board). Light each candle as you pray
careful, the distrac- meditate on the the corresponding station. Blow out the candle before you
tions – and attractions – of our stations on other days of the move on to the next station if you wish. This Stations of the
comfortable modern lives can week, there is a creative way to Cross tea light stand makes a great table centerpiece!
conflict with how we are called meditate upon them at home,
to spiritually prepare for Christ’s lighting a candle at each sta- Another idea: You can use other items such as
death and resurrection. tion to mark your progress. I wooden cigar boxes or trays for this project! Just make
Although I didn’t think so hope this helps you in your sure they are large enough to fit all the tea lights.
at the time, I still needed my Lenten journey this year!
dad to lead and guide me
through the proper steps that
come with being a Catholic
during Lent. Even as an adult
living outside of my dad’s
house, I still depend on cer-
tain aids to guide me through
the spiritual path Lent offers.
And, thankfully, the Church
offers a multitude of traditions
that fit that purpose. Along
with the acts of prayer, fasting
and almsgiving, the Stations
of the Cross serve as a step-
by-step roadmap through a
pilgrimage of prayer. They
provide a measured cadence
as we make our journey with
Christ to the cross, reminding
us of the nature of the Lenten
Photography by Shane FolkertsmaO bi spo Bur bi dge
La “Locura de Marzo” nuestros corazones y recuperará el enfoque necesario que
debemos tener.
(March Madness) Todos sabemos que la “locura” puede ser a consecuencia
del abuso de la tecnología hoy en día. El ayuno no solo
que debemos evitar es por el exceso de cosas materiales, sino del tiempo que
pasamos en los correos electrónicos y enviando mensajes
E
que nos pueden llevar a dejar pasar tiempo de calidad para
l título del artículo de este escuchar a otros y dedicarles nuestra total atención. Dicho
ayuno también ayudará a crear un espacio sagrado para que
mes puede ser sorprendente, hablemos y escuchemos a Dios.
como muchos de ustedes saben El consumo de las necesidades individuales y la
que soy un aficionado de los realización personal conduce a la “locura” que te hace
olvidar el sacrificio de dar que requiere de todos nosotros.
deportes, especialmente cuando se trata El dar e intercambiar recursos con otros, especialmente
de baloncesto universitario. Sin embargo, con los más necesitados, nos permite imitar a Jesús y su
no me refiero a la “locura de marzo” servicio desinteresado. Sigo profundamente inspirado
por las muchas maneras en que nuestras parroquias
que recibe la atención de muchos otros están involucradas en la ayuda a los que más necesitan
fans con una mentalidad deportiva y la de nosotros y por la increíble generosidad de nuestros
esperanza de que todos los equipos en feligreses a lo largo de esta Diócesis. También expreso
nuevamente mi agradecimiento por su contribución a la
nuestra Diócesis (vea que tan diplomático Campaña Anual del Obispo, que apoya el trabajo tremendo
voy a ser aquí) harán extremadamente que realizan Caridades Católicas y otros ministerios que
bien en el Torneo de Baloncesto NCAA. buscan llevar el amor de sanación de Jesús a los demás.
La “locura de marzo” que nos permite apoyar a nuestros
Como cualquier mes ordinario, marzo puede traernos equipos favoritos es una buena salida para los aficionados
una cierta “locura” si nos dejamos consumir por las del deporte y una que debemos disfrutar. La “locura de
actividades constantes, el ruido, el movimiento y nos marzo” que nos consume con las cosas del mundo y nos
abrumamos por las responsabilidades y funciones diarias hace olvidar la disciplina de la oración espiritual, ayunar
que tenemos. El deseo de Jesús es que nos liberemos y dar debe ser evitada para que podamos experimentar
de esas ansiedades y angustias, sin importar nuestras nuevamente la paz y serenidad que Jesús nos ofrece en este
circunstancias en la vida, con el fin de abrazar la paz y la tiempo sagrado y siempre.
serenidad que Él ofrece.
El Tiempo sagrado de
Cuaresma nos ofrece una salida
de esa “locura” al invitarnos a
abrazar nuevamente la disciplina
de la oración espiritual, ayunar y
dar. Esta disciplina es sometida
a prueba y nos lleva por un
camino libre del caos a una
tranquilidad que trae orden y
propósito a nuestras vidas. Con
la gracia de Dios, que podamos
regresar a estas disciplinas con
un fuerte compromiso.
Para evitar la “locura” de
la vida diaria, nuestros días
deben comenzar y terminar con
una oración. La oración por la
mañana es esencial ya que es
un Examen de Conciencia en
la Noche. Hacer pausa en el
curso del día, para recordar la
presencia sagrada de Dios en
medio de nosotros, tranquilizará
NC Catholics 20 March 2015 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.orgCar i d ades C at ól i cas
Asistencia de Inmigración inmigración
caros y que
no están
El 20 de noviembre del año pasado, el Presidente Obama anunció una calificados para
acción ejecutiva en materia de inmigración. A continuación Consuelo Kwee, ofrecer.)
Directora de Servicios de Inmigración de Caridades Católicas, nos explica que Una vez que
implicancias tiene esta acción ejecutiva para las miles de familias inmigrantes los reglamentos
que viven en la Diócesis de Raleigh y qué están acudiendo a Caridades sean
Católicas para recibir ayuda en el proceso. anunciados y las peticiones estén
disponibles, Caridades Católicas
Como Directora del Programa de Para obtener este derecho, deberán ofrecerá talleres de peticiones para
Servicios de Inmigración, ¿qué le cumplir con ciertos criterios de DACA y DAPA. Durante estos talleres,
gustaría lograr a corto plazo? Me educación y seguridad pública. especialistas de inmigración BIA de
gustaría contratar un especialista en También habrá un nuevo programa Caridades Católicas y voluntarios
inmigración que este acreditado por la de acción diferida para los padres capacitados proporcionarán
Junta de Apelaciones de Inmigración de ciudadanos estadounidenses o orientaciones sobre: cómo llevar a
(Board of Immigration Appeals o BIA) residentes hijos si han vivido en el país cabo la petición, cuales documentos
en cada una de nuestras 8 oficinas durante cinco (5) años o más. Esta deberán tener al momento de
regionales. Ellos no son abogados de nueva acción diferida para los padres presentar las solicitudes, y la revisión
inmigración, pero son profesionales (DAPA) depende de que ellos se de las solicitudes complicadas. Una
que han recibido formación avanzada registren, cumplan con una verificación vez que una persona haya asistido
para ser acreditados por la BIA. de antecedentes, y demuestren que su a un taller de peticiones y su caso
El especialista en inmigración BIA hijo nació antes de la fecha del anuncio sea aplicable, Caridades Católicas
puede proporcionar asistencia legal de la acción ejecutiva. le programará una sesión para
de inmigración y hacer el seguimiento revisar individualmente su petición
de los casos con los Servicios de ¿Qué está haciendo Caridades y los documentos sustentatorios y
Ciudadanía e Inmigración. Católicas para informar y ayudar recomendar los siguientes pasos.
a las personas con respecto
El 20 de noviembre de 2014, el a estas acciones ejecutivas? ¿Caridades Católicas va a cobrar
Presidente Obama anunció una Caridades Católicas ofrecerá tres por los servicios prestados a la
acción ejecutiva. ¿Qué significa distintas presentaciones: sesiones comunidad por los especialistas
y cuáles son las implicaciones informativas para la comunidad, de inmigración BIA? Sí. No hay
para las familias inmigrantes que talleres con más información sobre que pagar por asistir a las sesiones
viven en la Diócesis? En inglés se las peticiones y sesiones para la informativas para la comunidad pero
denomina Immigration Accountability revisión de peticiones. Ya hemos habrá una tarifa mínima de $ 25 para
Executive Actions a las acciones realizado varias sesiones informativas asistir a los talleres de peticiones,
tomadas por el Presidente para para la comunidad en toda la $ 100 para asistir a la sesión de
arreglar nuestro inoperante sistema Diócesis informando a las familias revisión de peticiones, y $ 75 por
de inmigración. El objetivo de estas sobre lo que es la acción diferida, cada sesión adicional.
acciones ejecutivas es restringir la quien puede calificar, y qué tipo de
inmigración ilegal en la frontera, documentos de apoyo necesitarán Si desea obtener más
deportar criminales no familias y para cumplir con los requisitos. información acerca de los
garantizar la responsabilidad y la En estas sesiones comunitarias servicios de inmigración de
rendición de cuentas. también creamos conciencia sobre Caridades Católicas o para
Las implicaciones para las familias la posibilidad de un posible fraude. programar una representación
inmigrantes de la Diócesis son (En la mayoría de países de América contáctese con Consuelo Kwee
extensas: Latina sólo los abogados pueden al 919-821-8148 o envíele un
Más inmigrantes que vinieron a llegar a ser notarios públicos. En correo electrónico a
los EE.UU. siendo niños han sido los EE.UU. no es necesario ser Consuelo.kwee@raldioc.org.
incluidos en el plan expandido del abogado para convertirse en un También puede visitar
Deferred Action for Childhood notario público. Desafortunadamente, www.CatholicCharitiesRaleigh.
Arrivals (o DACA). La expansión del algunas personas que se convierten org/events/ (este página web
DACA incluirá los que entraron en el en notarios públicos en los EE.UU. está en inglés) para averiguar
país como niños antes del 1 de enero pueden usar ese título para engañar las fechas y lugares de las
de 2010, independientemente de la a las familias de América Latina próximas sesiones y talleres.
edad que tengan en este momento. ofreciendo servicios legales y dee l hi spano C at ól i co
Católica de St. Thomas
More en Chapell Hill, donde
los Hathaways son feligre-
ses.
Hasta hoy, el ministerio
ha recaudado muebles y
otros artículos para el hogar.
Más de 1000 donantes han
ayudado a más de 340 per-
sonas y familias por medio
de referencias de agencias
gubernamentales y otras sin
fines de lucro. Entre esos,
brindaron asistencia a vet-
eranos, nuevos inmigrantes,
jóvenes a punto de salir del
sistema de adopción tempo-
ral, personas desempleadas
y trabajadores pobres,
como también a las víctimas
Convertir la casa de violencia doméstica y de desastres naturales, como el
que sucedió en el 2013, donde los hogares en Chapel Hill
en un hogar quedaron dañados. El programa incluso ha dado lugar a un
ministerio hermano en Durham, encabezado por un grupo
The Furniture Project de voluntarios en la Iglesia de Inmaculada Concepción.
Desde el comienzo de The Furniture Project, los Hatha-
(Proyecto de Muebles) de ways han reclutado historias que ilustran el impacto que ha
Chapel Hill, ofrece esperanza a causado este proyecto. Está, por ejemplo, el padre divor-
ciado que se fue sin saber a dónde llegar, mudándose a un
las familias en transición
D
motel con sus dos hijos. Después de vaciar sus finanzas,
la familia, con la ayuda de un grupo de servicios sociales,
esde el exterior, no se puede se mudó a un apartamento de una habitación que prácti-
ver mucho, este lugar, unidad camente estaba vacío – no había camas para los niños, no
tenía platos para compartir los alimentos, ni siquiera un sofá
de almacén color crema, es para sentarse y relajarse.
indistinguible por los alred- The Furniture Project proporcionó todas esas cosas esen-
edores de su instalación bardeada en una ciales – y más.
Cuando los Hathaways conocieron al papá, éste se encon-
calle transitada en Durham. La unidad de traba deprimido y sin esperanza, recuerda Jeff Hathaway.
casas, sin embargo, cuenta una historia. “Volvimos al día siguiente con un par de cosas y el impacto
de la visita anterior fue distinto; el papá actuaba diferente,
En una reciente, salpicada tarde de invierno, Jane y Jeff con seguridad de que todo iba estar bien”, añadió.
Hathaway levantan la puerta de la unidad donde se encuen- Los Hathaways dicen que las transformaciones son fre-
tran muebles almacenados de pared a pared; colchones cuentes.
con sus bases, mesas, lámparas y múltiples artículos. Estos Muchos describen The Furniture Project como una
muebles donados, son para las familias necesitadas – aquel- simple idea que responde a una necesidad compleja: recibe
las personas que se encuentran en medio de una transición los muebles y artículos que ya no le sirve a la gente y le da-
de crisis o sin casa mudándose a un hogar permanente – en mos vida nueva al hogar de la comunidad necesitada. Esta
el este y sureste del Condado de Orange. Estos muebles les gente, dice Jane Hathaways, tendrán una casa, pero después
ayudarán a convertir una casa en un hogar, y en el proceso, de los gastos básicos como pagar la renta, comida y ropa, les
ofrecer esperanza. queda muy poco dinero para comprar muebles.
Esta es la misión de The Furniture Project, una iniciativa Son personas con un salario mínimo que trabajan en el
de los Hathaways desde el año 2012, que nace de la com- servicio de la industria en el área de los hoteles, restauran-
pasión, caridad y fe. Hoy, es un ministerio ecuménico en 15 tes, colegios. Cuenta ella: “Su trabajo es vital para nuestras
diferentes comunidades de fe, una sinagoga, The Inter-Faith comunidades; necesitamos mantenerlos aquí, y The
Council y tres negocios, bajo la guía de la Comunidad Furniture Project es nuestra parte para que esto suceda; es
NC Catholics 22 March 2015 | www.DioceseofRaleigh.org | www.NCCatholics.orgYou can also read
