FALL RIVER — Deacon Ryan J. Healy (at right) will be ordained into the priesthood  for service in the Fall River Diocese by Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., in the context of an 11 a.m. Mass on Saturday, June 1, in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Fall River.

On the following day, Sunday, June 2, the newly-ordained priest will celebrate his first Mass in his home parish church of St. John the Evangelist, Attleboro, where he was baptized and has been a lifelong member.

Though admitting to some nervousness as his ordination approaches, Deacon Healy said that he feels “a great sense of peace and reassurance that I am fulfilling a calling and vocation from the Lord.”

Deacon Healy, who is 26, is the son of Richard and Christine Healy of Attleboro and the brother of two sisters, Jennifer and Meaghan.

He is a 2011 graduate of Bishop Feehan High School in Attleboro. He attended Franciscan University in Steubenville, Ohio, for two years before entering Our Lady of the Providence Seminary in Providence, R.I., and Providence College from which he graduated in 2015. He continued his studies for the priesthood at St. John’s Seminary in Brighton, earning this spring a baccalaureate degree in Sacred Theology.

As a seminarian he spent summers assisting in pastoral work at Good Shepherd and St. Stanislaus Parishes in Fall River and at St. Elizabeth Seton Parish in North Falmouth.

He was ordained a transitional deacon in May 2018 and served in that capacity last summer at Holy Family Parish, East Taunton, and since last fall during weekends at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, Seekonk, while finishing his final year at St. John’s Seminary.

Within the June 1^st ordination rite, Deacon Healy will be vested with his stole and chasuble, the vestments worn by a priest at Mass, by his priest uncle, Rev. Patrick Healy, a member of the Congregation of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, who will on the next day mark the 72^nd anniversary of his own priestly ordination.

Deacon Healy describes his uncle as “a huge role model of the priesthood” for him.

While not yet knowing the parish to which he’ll be assigned once ordained, Deacon Healy shared that he’ll be happy to carry out his priestly ministry anywhere.

“I look forward to being able to learn as much as I can from whichever pastor I am assigned with, and joyfully contributing to the parish community I am called to serve.

FALL RIVER – At the conclusion of Masses this weekend (May 25-26, 2019), parishioners of Holy Trinity Parish in Fall River were informed that their pastor, Father Bruce Neylon, has been removed from active priestly ministry because of a credible allegation of misconduct that is inconsistent with standards of ministerial behavior and in direct violation of the Code of Conduct for priests in the Fall River Diocese and the U.S. Bishops’ Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.

Fall River Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., made the decision to remove Father Neylon after an investigation into an allegation from an individual who said that Father Neylon had sexual contact with him on numerous occasions in the early 1980s when he, the complainant, was approximately 14 to 15 years old. The Diocese has never received any other allegations against Father Neylon.

As is procedure, the Diocese engaged the services of a former Massachusetts State Trooper to conduct an independent investigation. A report of the investigator’s findings was provided to the Fall River Diocesan Review Board, which followed with its own review of the facts. The Review Board, which includes nine lay and clerical members with legal, judicial, law enforcement, and social work backgrounds as well as a victim of abuse, met several times on this difficult matter. After serious consideration of all relevant information, including Father Neylon’s denial of the allegation, the Board determined the allegation to be credible, warranting his removal. In cases like this, both diocesan policy and the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People require that the accused cleric be removed from ministry.

The matter has also been referred to the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office.

“I know this is distressing information, first and foremost to Holy Trinity Parish, but also to the wider diocesan community of faith, and I want to assure all that my prayers are with them,” Bishop da Cunha said. “At the same time, I wish to extend my prayers to this individual who came forward and to all survivors who have endured abuse,” he said.

Father Neylon’s removal took effect immediately.  A priest who is removed from active ministry is not permitted to exercise public ministry nor present himself as a priest in public settings.

Background: Father Neylon’s Assignments:

Ordained 1975
1975 Assigned Parochial Vicar (or Assistant), Holy Name Parish, Fall River
1982 Assigned Parochial Vicar, St. Patrick Parish, Wareham
1985 Assigned to Pastoral Care, Sturdy Memorial Hospital, Attleboro
1993 Assigned Pastor, St. Mary Parish, Seekonk
2002 Assigned Pastor, St. Stanislaus Parish, Fall River
2012 Assigned Pastor, Holy Trinity Parish, Fall River

FALL RIVER–The 78th Annual Catholic Charities Appeal, which supports the many agencies assisting those in need throughout the Diocese of Fall River, has reached its halfway point. As of the end of May, the Appeal just passed the $2 million mark, with one month remaining in the annual campaign.

Each year, the Appeal invites parishioners of the Diocese and community supporters to bear witness to the good works that all make possible, together, through their generous support. This year’s theme, “See All the People,” is symbolic of the countless people who have benefitted from the agencies and apostolates of our Diocese committed to serving anyone in need.

This year people have the opportunity to see a series of videos on specific ministries receiving much-needed support through gifts to the Appeal. The series continues this week with a video dedicated to the Office for Persons with Disabilities (OPD), a program of Catholic Social Services. The OPD assists persons with disabilities, their families, and caretakers throughout the Diocese of Fall River. They serve people of all ages and all types of disabilities, through case management, advocacy, referral and information services, benefits applications, and more.

The video features Jerry Smith, who was paralyzed in a car accident in his twenties and turned to the OPD for help. A webpage telling Jerry’s story, along with statistics for the Office for Persons with Disabilities and the video, can be viewed on the Appeal website: www.catholicfoundationsema.org/jerry/. The website is updated regularly, so please visit it for more Appeal news and highlights in the weeks ahead.

Contributions to the Catholic Charities Appeal may be made either through a one-time donation or through monthly, quarterly, or semi-annual pledges. Donations may be mailed to the Catholic Charities Appeal office, 450 Highland Ave., Fall River, MA 02720, made online at givefrdiocese.org/cca19 ,or dropped off at any parish in the Diocese. Please contact the Catholic Charities Appeal office at 508-675-1311 with any questions.

Diocese of Fall River

OFFICIAL

His Excellency, the Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D., Bishop of Fall River, announces the following appointments and transfers:

Reverend Mr. Steven A. Booth, Deacon at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in Seekonk

Effective June 3, 2019

Reverend Ryan J. Healy, Parochial Vicar at St. Anthony Parish in East Falmouth, Saint Elizabeth Seton Parish in North Falmouth and Saint Patrick Parish in Falmouth, with residence at St. Anthony Parish in East Falmouth

Rev. Monsignor Edmund J. Fitzgerald, Director of Cardinal Medeiros Residence, Fall River

Effective June 26, 2019

Reverend Rowland Onuegbu, S.D.V., Chaplain to the Bristol County Correctional Facility in Dartmouth to Parochial Vicar at St. Patrick Parish in Wareham

Effective July 1, 2019

Deacon Richard J. Bisson, Sr., Deacon at Christ the King Parish in Mashpee

Deacon Keith R. Caldwell, Deacon at Our Lady of Victory Parish in Centerville and Our Lady of the Assumption Parish, Osterville

Deacon Gary L. Donahue, Deacon at Holy Cross Parish in South Easton

Deacon Kevin P. Gingras, Deacon at Holy Family Parish in East Taunton

Deacon David O. Harum, Deacon at Saint Vincent de Paul Parish in Attleboro

Deacon George E. Hults, Deacon at Saint Margaret of Scotland Parish in Buzzards Bay

Deacon Antonio M. Pimentel, Jr., Deacon at Saint Mary’s Parish in New Bedford

Deacon Paul D. Spearin, Deacon at Saint Ann’s Parish in Raynham

Deacon Matthew T. Sweeney, Deacon at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in Seekonk

Effective July 1, 2019

FALL RIVER–The 78th Annual Catholic Charities Appeal has raised $3 million to date, with just two weeks remaining in the annual campaign, which ends on Sunday, June 30. There is still time to make a gift in support of the many agencies assisting those in need throughout the Diocese of Fall River.

Each year, the Appeal invites parishioners of the Diocese and community supporters to bear witness to the good works that all make possible, together, through their generous support. This year’s theme, “See All the People,” is symbolic of the countless people who have benefitted from the agencies and apostolates of our Diocese committed to serving anyone in need. Since 1942, the Appeal has helped meet the spiritual and corporal needs of individuals and families throughout the Diocese: from the Attleboro’s, Mansfield, Taunton, and the greater Fall River and New Bedford areas, to Cape Cod and the Islands.

This year people have the opportunity to see a series of videos on specific ministries receiving much-needed support through gifts to the Appeal. The series continues this week with a video dedicated to faith formation, featuring Christian Leadership Institute (CLI), a six-day program offered each summer at Cathedral Camp in East Freetown. Parishes and Catholic high schools throughout the Diocese can submit applicants for CLI, which is open to any teen demonstrating exceptional maturity and leadership, as well as the potential to take on key roles within their schools, parishes, and communities. Participants in CLI develop skills and a deepened commitment to their faith, so they can become our next generation of leaders within the Church. Donations to the Catholic Charities Appeal help defray the cost to attend CLI.

The video features Mikayla Amadi, a Bishop Stang High School student and parishioner of Our Lady of the Assumption in New Bedford. A participant in last year’s CLI, Mikayla talks about the importance of faith formation in the lives of young people. A webpage telling Mikalya’s story, along with 2018-2019 statistics for faith formation and the video, can be viewed on the Appeal website: catholicfoundationsema.org/mikayla. Please visit the website for more Appeal news and highlights in the weeks ahead.

Contributions to the Catholic Charities Appeal may be made either through a one-time donation or through monthly, quarterly, or semi-annual pledges. Donations may be mailed to the Catholic Charities Appeal office, 450 Highland Ave., Fall River, MA 02720, made online at givefrdiocese.org/cca19 or dropped off at any parish in the Diocese. Please contact the Catholic Charities Appeal office at 508-675-1311 with any questions.

FALL RIVER — Five priests will retire from parish ministry in the Fall River Diocese this summer after decades of dedicated service.

To retire are Reverend Monsignor Edmund J. Fitzgerald, who is pastor of St. Thomas More Parish, Somerset; Reverend Timothy J. Goldrick, pastor of St. Patrick Parish, Falmouth; Reverend Kevin J. Harrington, pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Parish, New Bedford; Reverend Arnold R. Medeiros, pastor of St. Elizabeth Seton Parish, North Falmouth; and Reverend Joseph F. Viveiros, pastor of St. Dominic Parish, Swansea.

The retirements were announced last month by Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V.

They will become effective June 26, with the exception of that of Father Harrington. He will begin a six-month sabbatical on that date and retire upon its conclusion on December 26, 2019.

This year, Monsignor Fitzgerald marked 51 years as a priest while the other four will enter into retirement after four-decades plus in ministry. Each has served in several parishes in the diocese and in a variety of other ministries. Most have indicated an intention to remain active to some degree, assisting with the celebration of Masses in area parishes and helping in other ways as needed.

Msgr. Fitzgerald grew up in Taunton. After graduation from Monsignor Coyle High School in that city, he attended Boston College for two years before beginning studies for the priesthood at St. John’s Seminary in Brighton. He was ordained a priest on May 18, 1968 by Bishop James L. Connolly in St. Mary’s Cathedral in Fall River.

He was first assigned as parochial vicar at Holy Name Parish, Fall River, and while there he earned a master’s degree in education from Bridgewater State College.

In 1974, he began what would become decades-long service in healthcare ministries in the diocese, as director of the Pastoral Care Department at St. Anne’s Hospital, Fall River, from 1974-1986; as director of the diocesan Department of Pastoral Care for the Sick, 1977-1990; and since 1988 as executive director of Diocesan Health Facilities, which oversees the five skilled nursing and rehabilitative care facilities in the diocese and two community-based programs. He will retire from his health facilities post in June as well.

In addition, Msgr. Fitzgerald has served in two pastorates over the past 33 years. He was named pastor of St. John the Baptist Parish in Westport in 1986 and appointed to his current parish, St. Thomas More in Somerset, in 2006.

Through the years, he has also been diocesan liaison to the Cursillo movement, diocesan Secretary for Health Care, and dean of the Fall River Deanery.

He has twice been recognized with papal honors, in 1999 being named a Chaplain to His Holiness Pope John Paul II with the title of Reverend Monsignor and in 2012 being elevated to a Prelate of Honor to His Holiness.

Father Goldrick is a New Bedford native and a graduate of New Bedford High School. He prepared for the priesthood at Resurrection College in Ontario, Canada, and St. Mary’s Seminary in Baltimore. He was ordained a priest on May 13, 1972 by Bishop Daniel A. Cronin in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Fall River.

He began his priestly ministry as a parochial vicar at St. Ann Parish, Raynham; and served successively in that capacity at Immaculate Conception, Taunton; St. Margaret, Buzzards Bay; St. Lawrence, New Bedford; St. Pius X, South Yarmouth; St. Elizabeth Seton, N. Falmouth; St. John Neumann, E. Freetown; and St. Theresa, S. Attleboro.

In 1992, he was named administrator at St. Rita Parish in Marion and two years later was appointed to his first pastorate at St. Bernard Parish in Assonet.

Father Goldrick became pastor of St. Joseph Parish in North Dighton in 2007 and of the neighboring St. Peter’s in Dighton the next year, and he guided the two communities as they joined in 2008 to form the new St. Nicholas of Myra Parish, Dighton, of which he was founding pastor.

In 2012, he began his current post at St. Patrick Parish in Falmouth.

Along with his parish assignments he was also involved in a number of diocesan programs and committees including as chairman of “We Care/We Share” diocesan outreach initiative; service on the Diocesan Tribunal and Priests’ Council; and involvement in retreat programs including Emmaus, ECHO, and Cursillo.

In recent years, he wrote a popular and award-winning column, “The Ship’s Log: Reflections of a Parish Priest” for the diocesan paper, The Anchor.

Father Harrington was born in Wareham and grew up in New Bedford. He graduated from Holy Family High School in that city and earned a bachelor of science degree in physics from Providence College. He studied for the priesthood at St. Mary’s Seminary, Baltimore, and was ordained a priest on May 10, 1975 by Bishop Daniel A. Cronin in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Fall River.

Over the next 18 years, he served as a parochial vicar at several parishes: St. John the Evangelist, Attleboro; St. Joseph, Attleboro; St. Mary, North Attleboro; St. Joseph, Taunton; St. Mark, Attleboro Falls; and St. Patrick, Fall River.

During those years, he also oversaw ministry to the Spanish-speaking, serving as director of the Spanish Apostolate in Attleboro and then Taunton. He was also chaplain at Bishop Feehan High School in Attleboro. For almost 20 years, he was also a columnist for the diocesan newspaper, The Anchor.

In 1993, he was appointed pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Attleboro, and in 2000 became pastor of both St. Hedwig and Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe Parishes in New Bedford. In both assignments, he continued to work in Hispanic ministry as well.

He began his current pastorate at St. Francis of Assisi Parish, New Bedford, in 2002.

Father Medeiros was born in St. Michael in the Azores and immigrated to Fall River with his family as a child. After graduation from Bishop Stang High School, Dartmouth, he entered St. John’s Seminary in Brighton. He was ordained to the priesthood on May 10, 1975 by Bishop Daniel A. Cronin in St. Mary’s Cathedral in Fall River.

As a parochial vicar, he served at St. George Parish, Westport, and St. Anthony and Our Lady of Lourdes Parishes, both in Taunton. While in the latter parishes he was also chaplain at Taunton Catholic Middle School.

In 1993, he was named administrator of St. Elizabeth Parish, Fall River, serving there until he was appointed to his first pastorate at St. Mary Parish in Norton in 1995. Three years later, he became pastor of St. Patrick Parish in Wareham and in 2009 began his present pastorate at St. Elizabeth Seton Parish in North Falmouth. For three years, he was also pastor of St. John the Evangelist Parish in Pocasset.

Along with his parish ministry, Father Medeiros was director of Marriage Preparation in the diocese for over ten years earlier in his priesthood and was later state chaplain to the Massachusetts Knights of Columbus.

Father Viveiros, a native of St. Michael, Azores, came to Fall River as a child and attended city schools, graduating from B.M.C. Durfee High School. He studied for the priesthood at St. Mary’s Seminary in St. Mary, Kentucky, and at St. Mary’s Seminary in Baltimore. He was ordained a priest by Bishop Daniel A. Cronin on May 11, 1974 in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Fall River.

He served as parochial vicar at Our Lady of Fatima Parish, New Bedford; Sacred Heart, Fall River; St. John the Baptist, New Bedford; St. Anthony of Padua, Fall River; and Santo Christo, Fall River. In between assignments at the latter two parishes, he was chaplain at Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River for seven years.

In 1993, he returned to Our Lady of Fatima in New Bedford, where he was named a first-time pastor. Two years later, he was appointed to St. Dominic Parish in Swansea, from which he will retire after 24 years of ministry as pastor.

Father Viveiros served as director of the Deaf Apostolate in the diocese from 1974 to 2007 and for many of those years was also director of the diocesan Apostolate for Persons with Disabilities and chaplain to the Guild to the Blind.

MASHPEE — The 22nd annual FACE Summer Gala to support Catholic school students in the Fall River Diocese is set for Friday, July 12, 2019 at the Willowbend Country Club in Mashpee.

With a delicious multi-course dinner, a live auction and more, an enjoyable evening for all is planned with the proceeds going to the Foundation to Advance Catholic Education, (or FACE).

FACE provides need-based scholarships to children attending Catholic schools on Cape Cod and throughout the Fall River Diocese.

Boston TV personality Billy Costa, host of WGBH-TV’s High School Quiz Show, and NESN’s Dining Playbook, will serve as Master of Ceremonies for the Summer Gala.  Falmouth resident Peggy Foley is serving as chairperson for this year’s event.

In his letter of invitation, Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., writes that the FACE Summer Gala is an opportunity for friends “to come together and demonstrate their love and support for Catholic education.”  He points out that through the generosity of supporters of FACE, the Fall River Diocese “has been able to provide scholarships to many children who would otherwise not be able to attend a Catholic school,” adding that, “the need continues to grow.”   For the 2018-2019 school year, FACE gave out over $1.3 million in scholarships to 925 students.

For ticket information or to find out about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Jane Robin, Event Coordinator, at 508-759-3566 or jrobin@catholicfoundationsema.org.  Tickets and sponsorships may be purchased online at www.FACEsummergala.org.

TAUNTON – Fall River Diocese Catholic School Superintendent Steve Perla has announced the appointment of Ellen Russell (in photo) as the new Academy’s Director of STEM Education. This appointment is in direct response to the overwhelming local and national need for a workforce that is well equipped for the “fourth industrial revolution.” Currently, there are about 7 million unfilled jobs in the United States as a result of the misalignment between workforce supply and industry demands[i].

Ellen Russell’s career as a lifelong science and robotics expert will provide the Academy with strategic guidance of implementing STEM related curricula at all schools benefitting from the Academy.  While the first step of this implementation will focus on Coyle and Cassidy High School and Middle School in Taunton as well as Bishop Connolly High School in Fall River, over time the emphasis of STEM education will be integrated into all of the Catholic schools in the Diocese of Fall River.  Research shows that a STEM curriculum fosters critical thinking skills while developing the ability to work collaboratively on project-based work.

Russell’s responsibilities will include providing ongoing teacher professional development as well as creating curriculum and instructional strategies for STEM education, initially for both Coyle and Cassidy and Bishop Connolly High Schools. She will also continue to work directly with students in the robotics and science Olympiad programs.

In addition, Russell will teach robotics, engineering, and computer science to grades 1 – 4, as well as leading the robotics team at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic elementary school in Taunton.  Previously, Russell worked as science teacher and department chairperson in both the Easton Public Schools and Westwood Public Schools.  In this capacity, she was responsible for the development of new curricula such as elementary school engineering, middle school technology, and forensic science.

“Our Diocese is very fortunate to have someone of Ellen’s caliber on staff to oversee the STEM curriculum at our amazing schools,” said a very enthusiastic Chris Myron, who is president of Coyle and Cassidy and Bishop Connolly Schools.   “Students who choose to pursue STEM related interests will be well-served by Ellen Russell’s guidance and direction.”

Kathy St. Laurent, principal of Coyle and Cassidy and Bishop Connolly Schools, further expresses, “Ellen is such a wonderful role model to students in middle school and high school who enjoy science and math and think they want to pursue a STEM related career. Her leadership in the Academy offers students unique access to a wealth of STEM related educational and career guidance.”

According to Russell, “I am so pleased to have the opportunity to work in the subjects that I have loved my entire life.  There are so many more opportunities for STEM-related careers than when I was younger.  I want to ensure that students in our Catholic schools are exposed to all of the exciting possibilities for a career – in many cases, a career that they previously may not have considered. This new role perfectly combines my passion for STEM and teaching children, I could not be more thrilled to join this wonderful team of educators!”

The Academy offers cutting edge, academically rigorous, individually tailored and Christ-centered programs for students which are unlike any other educational program opportunities in Massachusetts.  While the Academy will initially benefit Coyle and Cassidy High School and Middle School and Bishop Connolly High School, the goal is for all Diocese of Fall River Catholic schools to leverage the Academy’s programs and relationships.

The Catholic Schools Alliance comprises administrators, teachers, staff, parents and clergy joined in partnership to educate the children of the Diocese of Fall River in Catholic faith and values. Our schools have a demanding educational culture that helps students from across the academic spectrum reach their God-given potential. With an emphasis on service and respect for the dignity of every person, we prepare students to meet the challenges of today’s diverse world and become meaningful contributors to society.

[i] https://www.usnews.com/news/national-news/articles/2019-05-22/how-to-prepare-for-the-fourth-industrial-revolution

Diocese of Fall River
Catholic Schools Alliance
423 Highland Avenue
Fall River, MA 02720
508-678-2828
Sandi M. Duxbury, VP of Marketing and Corporate Partnerships
sduxbury@catholicsa.org

     www.CatholicSchoolsAlliance.org

           Joanne M. Roque

FALL RIVER — Joanne M. Roque, who joined the staff of Madonna Manor in North Attleboro 30 years ago, has been named the new leader of Diocesan Health Facilities, the administrative entity that oversees all five skilled nursing and rehabilitation facilities sponsored by the Fall River Diocese.

Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., announced the appointment of Roque as chief executive officer of the Diocesan Health Facilities group earlier this month. Her appointment becomes effective July 1 and follows the retirement of Reverend Monsignor Edmund J. Fitzgerald after 31 years as the Diocesan Health Facilities executive director.

With a mission of providing extended care to the chronically ill and disabled, with special emphasis on the care of the frail elderly, the Diocesan Health Facilities Office serves almost 900 men and women in its five facilities: Catholic Memorial Home, Fall River; Madonna Manor, North Attleboro; Marian Manor, Taunton; Our Lady’s Haven, Fairhaven; and Sacred Heart Home, New Bedford. It also offers two community-based programs that support independent living, EldersFirst and Bethany House adult day health in Taunton.

Roque was hired as the assistant director of nursing at Madonna Manor in 1989 and went on to serve as its director of nursing, director of clinical administration, and then the home’s administrator.  In 2004 she came to the Diocesan Health Facilities Office, which is based in Fall River, as Director of Clinical Services, overseeing clinical operations across the entire 879-bed system.

“I am thankful to be given the opportunity to lead the next chapter of the Diocesan Health Facilities,” Roque shared. “I’m excited to be afforded the opportunity to continue working with the many dedicated members of our teams that fulfill our mission in delivering compassionate care encompassing the various needs of the residents and families that we serve.”

In announcing her appointment, Bishop da Cunha noted her decades of experience in health care.

“Joanne has exemplified the mission of our Diocesan Health Facilities and demonstrated a true dedication to those in need of care through her 30-years of service in various roles at Madonna Manor and most recently with her oversight of clinical operations for entire Diocesan Health Facilities group,” he said.

Roque holds a bachelor of science degree in nursing and a master of science in health care administration, both from Salve Regina University in Newport, RI. Earlier in her career, she worked as a nurse and then nurse manager at Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro.

A resident of Attleboro, she is a member of St. John the Evangelist Parish in that city. For the past three years, she has served as a board member for the non-profit agency, Bristol Elder Services.

Diocese of Fall River

OFFICIAL

His Excellency, the Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., D.D., Bishop of Fall River, announces the following appointments and transfers:

Very Reverend Daniel W. Lacroix, V.F. (Moderator) and Reverend John A. Raposo, Pastors in solidum of the Parishes of Saint Mary, Our Lady of Fatima, and Saint Joseph-Saint Therese in New Bedford

Reverend Edward A. Murphy (Moderator) and Reverend Gerard A. Hebert, Pastors in solidum of the Parishes of Annunciation of the Lord and Saint Andrew the Apostle in Taunton; Fr. Hebert to reside at Annunciation of the Lord rectory

Reverend Freddie Babiczuk (Moderator) and Reverend Thomas E. Costa, Jr.,  Pastors in solidum of the Parishes of  Saint Anthony, Saint Mary, and Saint Jude the Apostle in Taunton; Fr. Babiczuk to reside at St. Jude the Apostle rectory; Fr. Costa to reside at St. Anthony rectory

Effective July 1, 2019

FALL RIVER — The Fall River Diocese and the St. Anne’s Preservation Society have entered into an agreement through which the Preservation Society will re-open under its care and oversight St. Anne’s Shrine in Fall River to serve as a sacred place for prayer and devotion.  The Shrine is located in the building’s lower church.

Fall River Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., and representatives of the St. Anne’s Preservation Society signed the agreement late last week with an effective date of July 1, 2019.

The St. Anne Preservation Society will re-open the Shrine at 10 a.m. this Thursday, July 4^th, which is the anniversary of the 1906 dedication of the building’s upper church. It will then be open daily Monday through Friday with specific hours to be determined within the coming days.

Per the 10-year agreement, which may be extended, the Preservation Society will lease from the Fall River Diocese the St. Anne’s Church building and the former St. Anne Parish office for $1 per year.

Going forward, the St. Anne’s Preservation Society will launch a fundraising campaign to enable the group to begin to make major repairs to the building with the intention of an eventual full restoration of both the lower and upper churches.

“I am so very pleased that we have been able to work out this agreement between the Diocese of Fall River and the St. Anne’s Preservation Society,” said Bishop da Cunha.

“I was impressed with the leadership of the Preservation Society from my first meeting with them several months ago.  Their proposal for taking on responsibility of St. Anne’s Shrine and its needed repair was detailed, well thought out, and based on a genuine dedication to their faith. I am hopeful that St. Anne’s Shrine will once again serve as prayerful respite for persons, offering them solace and drawing them closer to God. I offer my prayers to the St. Anne’s Preservation Society for all of their efforts ahead.”

Richard Affonso, who is president of the St. Anne’s Preservation Society, expressed his gratitude to Bishop da Cunha and to the many others who have moved and supported the project in key ways.

“First and foremost, I want to thank Bishop da Cunha for his support of our mission and for his belief in our ability to get it done, he said. “Also, my thanks to others in the Diocese who have assisted us, to our attorney Brody Hale, and to the members of our board of directors. We have a great team working together on this.”

Affonso underscored that the goal of the Preservation Society is “a complete restoration of St. Anne’s over a 10-year period.”

Once the Shrine is open, the Preservation Society will begin to schedule recitations of the rosary, Bible Studies, and other special programs.  A minimum of two Masses will be celebrated there each year, according to the agreement. One will be on July 26, the Feast of Saint Anne in the Church’s calendar, and the other, beginning in 2020, on July 4, the anniversary of the dedication of the St. Anne’s Church.

FALL RIVER — Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., is asking that Friday, July 26^th, the feast of Saints Joachim and Anne, be a special Day of Prayer for the success of the work of the Planning Commissions now underway in the Fall River Diocese as part of the overall Rebuilding in Faith and Hope initiative. All are encouraged to pray that the Holy Spirit will continue to guide and inspire the members of the Planning Commissions as they now work to bring their months-long efforts to a fruitful conclusion. In the evening of that day a Holy Hour will be offered in one church in most deaneries to provide an opportunity for all from the region to join together in prayer for this important intention. The Holy Hours will take place at 7:00 p.m. on July 26 in the following churches: Holy Name Church, Fall River; St. Mary Church, New Bedford; St. Mary Church, Norton; and St. Ann Church, Raynham.

Parishioners in the Cape Cod Deanery are invited to gather to pray together for planning efforts at St. Anthony Church in East Falmouth on Monday, July 22, at 6:00 p.m., within the parish’s weekly hour of Eucharistic Adoration. 

All are welcome to attend any of the Holy Hours.

EAST SANDWICH—Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., invites high school age youth throughout the Fall River Diocese to the second annual diocesan Catholic Youth Day to take place on Wednesday, August 7, at Corpus Christi Parish in East Sandwich. There is no charge to participate, and free bus transportation will be provided from locations throughout the diocese.

The day’s program will begin at 10 a.m. with featured keynote presenter Joel Stepanek of Life Teen International, who has traveled the world talking with young people about their faith. As director of resource development for Life Teen, he oversees the creation of materials for youth ministry in various media and has led trainings of youth ministry leaders around the globe.

Catholic Youth Day participants will also hear reflections on faith from their peers in the diocese and take part in a service project designed to highlight Catholic social teaching on the need to care for God’s creation. The project, planned by recent young adult graduates of the diocese’s Catholic Leadership Institute, will include a trip to a nearby beach.

In addition, Catholic Youth Day will feature music, the celebration of Mass with Bishop da Cunha, additiopportunities for prayer, games, lunch and dinner.

“We have planned an exciting day for our second annual Youth Day in the Diocese,” said Beth Mahoney, who is leading a committee organizing the event.

“The theme for the day is ‘We Want to See Jesus,’ echoing Pope Francis’ closing remarks at January’s World Youth Day in Panama in which he invited youth ‘to see Jesus.’ It’s our hope that this diocesan Youth Day will energize our young people and affirm their faith, sending them back to their parishes and schools with enthusiasm to share with others.”

Buses will depart at 7 a.m. from diocesan high schools in Attleboro, Dartmouth, Fall River and Taunton to bring participating youth and chaperones to East Sandwich and return them to those locations in the evening. Catholic Youth Day will conclude at 7 p.m. (Bus transportation will also be available from some points on Cape Cod. Details will be forthcoming as final arrangements are made.)

Teens interested in attending Catholic Youth Day must register through their parish. They should contact the director of religious education at their parish or the parish office to do so.

Questions? Please contact Claire McManus of the diocesan Faith Formation Office at 508-678-2828 or by email at cmcmanus@dfrcs.org

ATTLEBORO — Fall River Diocesan School Superintendent Steve Perla has announced the appointment of Christine Barrett (in photo) as the director of the new Little Flower Early Learning Center, located on Palm Street in Attleboro. The Little Flower Early Learning Center, to open on August 26th, will offer a faith-based, innovative, and affordable childcare program for children from 6 weeks to 3.9 years of age.

Market research indicates that there continues to be a need for high quality childcare where every child is valued, respected and accepted as an individual with unique qualities, needs and patterns of growth.

Christine Barrett is “a lifelong and innovative early childhood education educator, and she will shape an engaging, loving, and quality Center,” said Perla in his announcement of her appointment.

“I truly enjoy meeting the families and children and am so proud and honored to represent this wonderful new endeavor of the Diocese,” shared Barrett. “Early childhood education has been my passion for my entire career, and now I am even more excited to lead a program that infuses age-appropriate faith and educational programs. Children are so inquisitive at these young ages, this is the perfect time to help them learn.”

“The Little Flower Early Learning Center is a wonderful extension of our Catholic school system and we are so honored to have someone of Christine’s faith and extensive early education background to lead this center,” according to Sandi Drummey, who is assistant superintendent of the Catholic Schools Alliance. “Parents will immediately feel comfortable that their child or children will have wonderful care in addition to the academic foundation that will prepare them for Pre-K and Kindergarten.”

The Diocese of Fall River is also pleased to announce the launch of Little Flower’s colorful and whimsical website, www.littleflowerelc.org. This website provides families with the necessary information on the programs available for their children, the academic schedule taught to each classroom of students, as well as very specific goals the center has for each family and child. Recent diocesan market research on Catholic education shows that parents with young children are most interested in a safe and nurturing environment along with the opportunity for character development.

For more information on the Little Flower Learning Center, including tuition rates, please call Christine Barrett at (508) 455-0145. The Center will accept childcare vouchers.

The Catholic Schools Alliance comprises administrators, teachers, staff, parents and clergy joined in partnership to educate the children of the Diocese of Fall River in Catholic faith and values. Fall River Diocesan schools have a demanding educational culture that helps students from across the academic spectrum reach their God-given potential. With an emphasis on service and respect for the dignity of every person, they prepare students to meet the challenges of today’s diverse world and become meaningful contributors to society.

Diocese of Fall River
Catholic Schools Alliance
373 Elsbree  Street
Fall River, MA 02720
508-687-7301
Sandi M. Duxbury, VP of Marketing and Corporate Partnerships
sduxbury@catholicsa.org

     St. Anthony of Padua                               Reliquary

FALL RIVER—From Monday, August 26 to Saturday, August 31, two first-class and precious relics of the Portuguese-born saint, St. Anthony of Padua, will tour the Diocese of Fall River.

Conventual Franciscan Father Alessandro Ratti will bring the holy relics from the saint’s Basilica, St. Anthony of Padua, in Padua, Italy. Father Alex, as he is known, is one of 54 priests of the Franciscan Order of Friars Minor Conventual  who minister in the Basilica where the saint is buried.

The two exquisite reliquaries, one of which contains layers of skin of the saint’s cheek and the other a fragment of his floating rib, have been venerated by Pope Francis, Pope Benedict, St. Mother Teresa, St. John Paul II and Servant of God, Sister Lucia of Fatima.

The relics will be on display for veneration at the following parishes:

• Monday, August 26, at St. Anthony Church, 167 East Falmouth Highway, East Falmouth; Msgr. Stephen J. Avila, pastor.

Veneration begins at 5 p.m., with Mass at 7 p.m.

• Tuesday, August 27, at the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption, 327 Second Street, Fall River; Father Thomas Washburn, rector.

Mass will be celebrated at 12 noon to welcome the two relics and veneration begins after the midday Mass, with a concluding Mass at 7 p.m.

• Wednesday, August 28, at St. Anthony Church, 22 Barstow Street, Mattapoisett; Father John C. Ozug, pastor.

Mass at 8 a.m., Veneration after the Mass until 1:30 p.m.

• Wednesday, August 28, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 235 North Front Street, New Bedford; Father Conrad Salach, O.F.M. Conv, pastor.

Veneration at 5 p.m., Mass at 7 p.m.

• Thursday, August 29, at St. Francis Xavier Church, 125 Main Street, Acushnet; Father Riley Williams, pastor.

Mass at 9 a.m., followed by Veneration until 12 noon

• Thursday, August 29, at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 1359 Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford; Father Octavio Cortez, I.V.E., pastor.

Veneration begins at 6 p.m., with Mass at 7 p.m.

• Friday, August 30, at St. Anthony Chapel, 35 Gault Road, West Wareham; Father Antonio L. da Silva, S.D.V., pastor;

Veneration at 4 p.m., Mass at 7 p.m.

• Saturday, August 31, at St. Anthony Church, 126 School Street, Taunton; Father Freddie Babiczuk, pastor.

Veneration begins at 2 p.m., Vigil Mass at 4 p.m.

According to Friar Mario Conte, the executive editor of the Messenger of St. Anthony, a magazine written, published and printed by the Franciscan Friars in Padua for the English-speaking world, “There is nothing superstitious about relics. The real meaning of a relic is love — they are a link of love between the person who venerates and the saint. In recognizing that only God performs miracles, it is through the communion of saints that we are brought closer to Our Lord.”

In an address in Cologne, Germany on Aug. 18, 2005, Pope Benedict Emeritus said of relics, “By inviting us to venerate the mortal remains of the martyrs and saints, the Church does not forget that, in the end, these are indeed just human bones, but they are bones that belonged to individuals touched by the living power of God. The relics of the saints are traces of that invisible but real presence which sheds light upon the shadows of the world and reveals the Kingdom of Heaven in our midst.”

Prayer petitions with holy cards will be distributed in each parish to allow parishioners to write their prayer petition and intentions to the saint. Veneration is touching the reliquaries with the prayer petition and religious objects such as Rosary beads, holy cards, medals and crosses, to name a few. The writing of a prayer petition is a worldwide tradition when venerating a relic of a saint.

Father Alex will bring the petitions back to the Pontifical Basilica in Padua and place them at the tomb of St. Anthony. The tour officially ends back at the Tomb of St. Anthony where the Friars will gather to pray for the saint’s intercession upon our intentions and petitions.

St. Anthony of Padua was a Portuguese Catholic friar belonging to the Franciscan Order. He was born and raised in a wealthy family in Lisbon. He died in 1231 and was buried in a little church outside the walls of the town of Padua. He was canonized within a year after his death, the shortest time in the history of the Church. His remains are now kept in the Basilica in Padua, Italy. Noted by his contemporaries for his preaching and expert knowledge of Scripture, he was proclaimed a Doctor of the Church in 1946.

78th Annual Appeal, ‘See All the People,’ Surpasses $4 Million

The Catholic Foundation expanding philanthropic
efforts in support of the Diocese of Fall River

FALL RIVER–The 78th annual Catholic Charities Appeal (CCA), “See All the People,” has come to a close, and this year more than 20,000 generous supporters came forward making gifts totaling $4.1 million to sustain the Appeal’s longstanding mission of serving those in greatest need throughout the Diocese of Fall River.

“Each year, I am so grateful for the generosity and compassion that the people of our Diocese show those who are most in need among us, through their faithful support of the Catholic Charities Appeal,” said Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V. “To uphold our tradition of service and commitment to others for nearly 80 years through this most important Appeal, is a testament to our duty to live in Christ, in all ways.”

“As a Fall River native and resident, it is truly inspiring to see how the work of the agencies and apostolates supported by the CCA makes a huge difference right in our backyards,” said Rebecca Hancock, Director of Annual Giving and Stewardship at The Catholic Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts. “‘See All the People’ is a reminder of what we are called to do as Catholics: recognize the needs that exist all around us—and take action to make a positive difference in the lives of others.”

This year, all parishes were given the option to partner with The Catholic Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts in managing the day-to-day work in support of the Appeal. The Foundation managed the mailings, gift collection and gift processing, and regular reporting for more than 50 parishes, easing a considerable administrative and financial burden for two thirds of the Diocese. Donors to the Appeal have also been receiving thank-you letters from Bishop da Cunha throughout the Appeal as part of a continuing effort by the Foundation to acknowledge gifts of all sizes.

While Bishop da Cunha acknowledged that local, national and international challenges in the Church of late may have impacted Appeal returns, he said he is “excited about the new Foundation infrastructure and the ability of staff to continuously improve the fundraising capability of the Diocese.”

The bishop also pointed out the need “to be committed as a Diocese to Rebuilding in Faith and Hope to ensure that the legacy of wonderful and faithful donors to the Appeal from years past continues with the support of successive generations,” which he also acknowledged as a challenge.

Among initiatives of the Catholic Foundation to support the 2019 CCA were a series of focus videos highlighting specific ministries benefitting from donor support of the Appeal, and plans call for the series to continue with new topics and areas of focus in 2020. In June, a $50,000 match challenge was made possible through a generous gift from The Carney Family Charitable Foundation, allowing gifts to be matched 1:1 until the goal was achieved within a few short days. Also, for the very first time, Chancery staff members were also given the opportunity to support the CCA through automatic payroll deduction, a quick and easy way for staff to show support for it throughout the year.

“It has been a pleasure to work with the Foundation team on this year’s Catholic Charities Appeal,” said Monsignor Stephen J. Avila, pastor of St. Elizabeth Seton and St. Patrick Parishes in Falmouth and St. Anthony Parish in East Falmouth. “Their efforts have brought a renewed enthusiasm and professionalism to the cause and greatly supported us here on the parish level.”

A focus on collecting emails this year will allow faithful supporters to receive regular updates on the good works made possible through their generosity. A hardcopy and online publication featuring an honor roll of donors will be produced in the months ahead. And throughout the year, The Catholic Foundation’s new website – www.catholicfoundationsema.org – will feature updates and news associated with the Appeal, including parish totals, revenues and expenditure reports, and inspiring stories from those whose lives have been transformed through CCA gifts.

The CCA is a significant part of The Catholic Foundation’s work in support of our Diocese’s extensive philanthropic efforts, but the work does not end there. The Foundation is actively growing its new giving society, The Anima Christi Society, which is dedicated to celebrating the many generous individuals who have included the Diocese or their parishes in their estate plans. The Foundation to Advance Catholic Education (FACE) is also served by The Catholic Foundation, with exciting, new opportunities to support Catholic School scholarships underway. Interested donors may also contact the Foundation to discuss ways to support a specific mission or fund that is meaningful and dear to them.

Steering The Catholic Foundation as the service “hub” for all Diocesan fundraising efforts is an engaged and dynamic Board of Directors, who have collectively pledged more than $8 million. The Catholic Foundation’s Board of Directors are: Co-chairs Patrick Carney and Nick Christ, as well as George Agostini, Bob Long, Richard Lafrance, Spiritual Director Reverend Marcel Bouchard, Bishop da Cunha, Reverend John Murray (Moderator of the Curia) and Reverend Richard Wilson (Vicar General), as well as honorary Board member, Joseph Ciffolillo. “The Catholic Foundation is eager to continue to build our team and our levels of service to strengthen and sustain our Diocese of Fall River for generations to come,” said Catholic Foundation CEO, Miriam “Mim” Finn Sherman.

While the parish phase of the 2019 Catholic Charities Appeal has come to a close, the CCA is part of the Catholic Foundation’s growing annual giving program, which encourages the generous support of our parishioners and friends year-round. Donations can always be made online at givefrdiocese.org/cca19 throughout the year or mailed to the Catholic Charities Appeal office, 450 Highland Ave., Fall River, MA 02720. They may also continue to be dropped off at any parish in the Diocese.

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Dioceses of the Boston Province including the Fall River Diocese have launched a third party, independent system to report abuse by Catholic bishops. The Bishops of the province have agreed to make a reporting system available now in the wake of Pope Francis’ landmark Vos estis letter and the nearly unanimous response to that letter by the US Conference of Catholic Bishops in June 2019.

To file and track a submission, please visit www.Bishopreporting.ethicspoint.com.

On May 9, 2019, Pope Francis promulgated a Motu Proprio, entitled Vos estis lux mundi, that identifies substantive measures to respond to the clergy sexual abuse crisis in the Church. This includes requiring all dioceses in every country to establish a public, accessible and reliable system for reporting crimes of clergy sexual abuse and any cover-up of abuse by May 31, 2020. It also requires the establishment of new procedural norms for investigating crimes by bishops and supreme moderators of religious institutes, including both allegations of sexual abuse and any cover up by way of actions or omissions intended to conceal information or to interfere with investigations.

At the June 2019 meeting of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, a measure was approved to establish a third-party national reporting system for allegations or complaints involving bishops in the United States. The system will be designed to receive, via phone or email, confidential information reporting possible violations by bishops. This vote was taken following guidance articulated in Pope Francis Vos estis lux mundi.

Vos estis lux mundi allows until May 31, 2020, for the development of local systems to receive such reports. With the understanding that the implementation of the national system is months away, the bishops of the Boston Province agreed to join a program already established by the Archdiocese of Boston through an independent EthicsPoint ^tm website. The Province includes the Archdiocese of Boston (MA), Diocese of Fall River (MA), Diocese of Worcester (MA), Diocese of Springfield (MA), Diocese of Burlington (VT), Diocese of Manchester (NH) and the Diocese of Portland (ME).

Much has been accomplished over nearly two decades to address the clergy sexual abuse crisis in the Catholic Church, including instituting mandatory reporting to civil authorities, protection and prevention training, and pastoral support and outreach for survivors, among other steps. However, more is required to ensure that there is an effective and independent system in place to report misconduct by bishops.

Those who were sexually abused by clergy, along with their families and loved ones, must always be the central focus of our ongoing response to the sexual abuse of minors. There is no doubt that they have suffered greatly. In order for the Catholic Church to continue to restore trust and credibility, leadership must be committed to transparency and accountability. We hope and pray that this effort will further strengthen the work begun nearly two decades ago to offer healing.

Bishops of the Boston Province

Massachusetts

Cardinal Seán P. O’Malley, OFM, Cap.
Archbishop of Boston

Most Reverend Robert J. McManus
Bishop of Worcester

Most Reverend Mitchell T. Rozanski
Bishop of Springfield

Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V.
Bishop of Fall River

New Hampshire

Most Reverend Peter A. Libasci
Bishop of Manchester

Vermont

Most Reverend Christopher J. Coyne
Bishop of Burlington

Maine

Most Reverend Robert P. Deeley, JCD
Bishop of Portland

FALL RIVER — Kellie Kickham (in photo) has been appointed principal of St. John the Evangelist School in Attleboro. The appointment, which became effective July 1, was announced recently by  Fall River Diocesan School Superintendent Stephen A. Perla.

Kickham replaces Sister Mary Jane Holden, C.P., who retired in June after serving as principal of the school for the past 15 years.

Kickham has been principal at St. Mary’s School in Winchester, Mass., where she launched a foreign language program to include Italian and Mandarin Chinese. She also oversaw the expansion of the STREAM curriculum (science, technology, reading, engineering, arts, and mathematics) while nurturing the students’ spiritual paths to incorporate God and community into their daily lives. As assistant principal at St. Agatha School in Milton before that, she fostered a professional learning culture across all grades and disciplines. Prior to her administrative posts, Kickham was an eighth-grade English and Language Arts teacher.

“The opportunity to leverage my experiences with the MAP growth program as well as a STEM curriculum is one I could not pass up,” Kickham explained. “God has blessed me with a strong foundation to grow the St. John the Evangelist community. This school’s history is so entrenched in the Attleboro community, and I am so excited to meet the families and truly know the students!”

Underscoring the “crucial role” that Catholic schools play in teaching the Catholic faith to the next generation, St. John the Evangelist Parish pastor Father Dariusz Kalinowski said, “Kellie Kickham is the right person to lead this very important ministry.” Superintendent Perla added that she “has demonstrated very strong leadership skills and we are so fortunate to have her as a new school leader in the Diocese of Fall River.”

Kickham received her bachelor of arts degree in elementary education from Boston College and a master of education degree from the University of Massachusetts, Boston. She is actively involved in the Boston College Lynch Leadership Academy where she was a Cohort VI Fellow, and she participated in the Roche Center for Catholic Leadership Emmaus Series program. “

The Catholic Schools Alliance comprises administrators, teachers, staff, parents and clergy joined in partnership to educate the children of the Diocese of Fall River in Catholic faith and values. Our schools have a demanding educational culture that helps students from across the academic spectrum reach their God-given potential. With an emphasis on service and respect for the dignity of every person, we prepare students to meet the challenges of today’s diverse world and become meaningful

FALL RIVER — The Fall River Diocese will offer the annual Red Mass on Saturday, September 28, at 4 p.m. in the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption, 327 Second Street in Fall River.

A long-standing tradition in the Church, the Red Mass is celebrated each year in the diocese to ask for God’s guidance and strength on those who work to promote justice in the legal system. Judges, attorneys and others working in the justice system throughout Southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod and the Islands are invited to attend.

Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., will be principal celebrant and homilist at the Mass. It will conclude with the annual presentation of the St. Thomas More Awards to members of the area legal community in recognition of dedicated service.

The Red Mass is so named because of the color of the vestments worn during the Liturgy, which is the Mass of the Holy Spirit, who will be invoked upon those in attendance.

All are welcome at the Red Mass. A reception and dinner will follow for which a ticket is required. For more information about the Red Mass and reception, please contact Red Mass Committee chairman Attorney Michael J. Harrington at 508-994-5900 or by email harringtonpc@aol.com.