February 2015 readings

Sunday, Feb. 1: Deuteronomy 18:15-20; Psalm 95:1-2, 6-9; 1 Corinthians 7:32-35; Mark 1:21-28 Monday, Feb. 2: Feast, the Presentation of the Lord, Malachi 3:1-4; Psalm 24:7-10; Hebrews 2:14-18; Luke 2:22-40 Tuesday, Feb. 3: Hebrews 12:1-4; Psalm 22:26-28, 30-32; Mark 5:21-43 Wednesday, Feb. 4: Hebrews 12:4-7, 11-15; Psalm 103:1-2, 13-14, 17-18; …

Living the readings: What’s in the old closet?

There is much in store for us during the month Lent begins Most every house or apartment has a store-all closet into which all sorts of memories are relegated. Chances are that you recently put your Christmas items up in that same closet so they will be available next December. …

Once upon a time: Catholicism’s westward journey

Christ is as present today in Diocese of Knoxville as he was in early days of the Church It was the mid ‘60s of the first century of the Christian era. Our first Holy Father was well into his fourth decade as Christ’s vicar on earth. The Church was well-established …

Marriage enrichment: Showing caregivers a little love

Valentine’s Day is a good time to let them know how we feel Valentine’s Day is the day typically set aside for couples to express their love for each other. Although it is a special day for couples, the greeting card industry celebrates all forms of loving relations. When my …

Obituaries

Funeral Mass held for Sister Julissa Duggan Sister Julissa Duggan, BVM, 95, died Nov. 28, at Marian Hall in Dubuque, Iowa. Burial was in Mount Carmel cemetery. In the Diocese of Knoxville, Sister Julissa taught elementary school at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Chattanooga. She also taught elementary school …

Understanding the sacraments: Preparing for Lent

Looking at our campaign of Christian service as we anticipate the Easter celebration The opening prayer for Ash Wednesday describes Lent in striking military language—we are embarking on a “campaign of Christian service” in which “we take up battles against spiritual evils” and arm ourselves “with weapons of self-restraint.” A …

KCHS, Notre Dame students take part in national March for Life

The massive March for Life in Washington, D.C., is getting a boost from students across the Diocese of Knoxville. Bradford Bosarge, director of campus ministry at Knoxville Catholic High School, said 75 students and chaperones arrived in the nation’s capital on Jan. 21 to take part in the annual event. …

Lenten pilgrimage to EWTN, Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament planned

A Lenten pilgrimage to EWTN and the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament is being planned for March 4–6. Those who join the pilgrimage will depart by bus on March 4 and travel to EWTN studios (ewtn.com/pilgrimage/about-us.asp) where Mass will be celebrated with the Friars, lunch will be served on …

He dwells among us: The journey to Bethlehem

‘The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light,’ and St. Joseph is our sure guide With the beginning of Advent, the Church marks the start of a new liturgical year, a full month before we celebrate the beginning of a new calendar year. And this seems fitting …

Chattanoogans for Life inspired by Chet McDoniel’s personal story

Renowned speaker is joined by dad for program to celebrate the pro-life mission, shows attendees he remains unbroken By Paul Schulz On Jan. 5, 1980, Chet McDoniel emerged from his mother Judy’s womb breech, with shortened legs and no arms. “My parents tell me that immediately after my birth I …

Bishop Stika celebrates the saints with students at St. Joseph School

Bishop Richard F. Stika took the opportunity to discuss one of his favorite subjects — saints — with a school full of eager students during a visit to St. Joseph School on Nov. 3. Bishop Stika celebrated Mass at the North Knoxville school on the first school day after All …

St. John XXIII parish to hold Christmas Mass for those grieving

A special Christmas Mass for those who are alone, sad, or grieving will again be said on Dec. 24 at St. John XXIII Parish and University Center on the University of Tennessee campus. The 8 p.m. Blue Christmas Mass will be a liturgy of hope for those experiencing pain and …