"O Death, where is your sting? O Hell, where is your victory? Christ is risen, and you are overthrown. Christ is risen, and the demons are fallen. Christ is risen, and the angels rejoice. Christ is risen, and life reigns...To Him be glory and dominion unto ages of ages."

-St. John Chrysostom

Evangelization News, Tips & Ideas

New (Excellent) Book! Leaving Boyhood Behind

The Office for the New Evangelization invites all Catholic men and women to read the new book Leaving Boyhood Behind, a critically important work by Jason Craig, co-founder of the Fraternus Ministry and founder of St. Joseph Farm, an on-farm retreat ministry for men and boys. This book addresses one of the most urgent issues of our times, the crisis of masculinity, which lies at the root of many other problems in marriage, family life, the priesthood and more.

In his book, Craig offers us a truly authentic proposal that serves not just as a band-aid for the problem, but as an actual remedy. It "lays the axe to the root" of the man-crisis by showing us how to repair the gaps in male formation, gaps that have led to the failure of many men to mature into virtuous men capable of sacrificial, courageous, self-giving love.

Fathers and mothers, grandparents, coaches, teachers, priests and pastoral leaders - anyone who is concerned with the welfare of boys, the priesthood, marriages and families - should read this book! Buy it, read it, pray over it, and let's think together about how we can help this work to take root here in our local Church. After you've read it, please send your ideas to us at phillyevang@archphila.org.

Nourish for Caregivers ministry launch

We are thrilled to welcome the Nourish for Caregivers ministry to the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and the launch of our first Nourish for Caregivers support group! Here are the details:

Nourish for Caregivers is a Christ-centered Catholic ministry that supports the practical, emotional & spiritual needs of family caregivers. Our monthly meetings are for anyone juggling the challenges of everyday life, health, career and caring for a loved one, whether it be a family member with disabilities, an aging parent, spouse, friend or grandparent. We meet monthly on second Thursdays from 10:00am - 11:30am starting on June 13. Location: St. Anastasia Rectory Meeting Room in Newtown Square, PA. For more information, visit phillyevang.org/nourish, or contact Aimee J. Gustitis, BSN, RN, JD at 610-724-8950 or aimeegustitis@outlook.com.

To learn more about starting a Nourish for Caregivers group, visit http://www.phillyevang.org/nourish/

Office for the New Evangelization
Upcoming Events

What Can We Do?
The Role of the Laity in a Time of Crisis

As the Church undergoes this period of profound crisis, many of us feel helpless as we watch a drama unfold that we can do nothing about. But the truth is that we are not powerless. The history of the Church tells us that lay people have a role to play in the Church’s times of turmoil. Join us for an evening of reflection on the mission of the laity in times of ecclesial crisis and learn what you can do to cooperate with Christ’s action to purify and heal His Church.

View the flyer for more details

Dates/Locations:

Thurs, May 23, 7:00 PM - Epiphany of Our Lord, South Philadelphia

Wed, May 29, 7:00 PM - St. Hilary, Rydal
Wed, June 5, 2019, 7 PM - St. Anthony of Padua, Ambler

Tues, Sept 17, 2019, 7 PM - St. Stanislaus, Lansdale

Mon, Oct 7, 2019, 7 PM - St. Andrew Olde Church, Newtown

Speaker:

Meghan Cokeley
Office for the New Evangelization, Archdiocese of Philadelphia

More info:

No charge to attend.
Please RSVP at phillyevang.org/events

Around the Archdiocese...

Below you will find great Catholic events taking place in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. If you would like to submit an event for inclusion in the newsletter, please email all pertinent information in the format used below to phillyevang@archphila.org for consideration. Events must be received by the 23rd of each month.
__________________________________________________________

Thursday, April 25, 2019, 4:30 p.m.
Event: The Church and the Scandal: New Challenges, New Questions
Hosted by The Eleanor H. McCullen Center for Law, Religion and Public Policy at Villanova University and Saint Thomas More Society of Philadelphia
Lecturer: Peter Steinfels, Former Religion Correspondent,The New York Times, University Professor Emeritus, Fordham University, Former Editor, Commonweal
Location: Laurence E. Hirsch '71 Classroom (Room 101) of Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law; 299 North Spring Mill Road, Villanova, PA
More info: **The event is free and open to the public.** Please RSVP here.

Friday-Sunday, April 26-28, 2019
Event: Retrouvaille for Stressed or Troubled Marriages
A healing program that offers a welcoming and loving space to married couples who have been living with the misery of a failing marriage. Retrouvaille offers hope that it is not too late for a different and better marriage.
Location: Malvern Retreat House, McShain-Horstmann Family Life Center, 315 S. Warren Avenue Malvern, PA 19355
More Information: Visit the website or call 215-766-3944

Saturday, April 27, 2019, 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Event: Lourdes in a Day, Order of Malta Philadelphia Chapter, Lunch, Adoration, Anointing of the Sick, Penance, Vigil Mass
Those suffering with illness and their caregivers come on pilgrimage and receive the graces of the sacraments, hand washing with Lourdes Water, pray the rosary and be strengthened.
Location: Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 6301 Woodbine Ave., Philadelphia, PA
To Learn More: View the flyer; Visit the webpage; Contact Victoria Sowa Gordon at victoria.sowa@gmail.com or 302.388.5913

Wednesday, May 1, 2019, 6:00 PM
Event: Regina Coeli Academy’s 8th Annual Stand Up for the Children Fundraiser
RSVP today for an evening of complimentary wine, appetizers, and a dinner buffet. The evening will also include a silent auction and guest speaker R.J.Snell. This fundraiser is free to attend and all donations go toward the scholarship fund for the RCA students.
Speaker: R. J. Snell on “Joyful Resistance: Classical Education and the Temptations of Our Age.”
Location: Normandy Farm, 1401 Morris Rd, Blue Bell, PA 19422
To learn more or RSVP email: fleopold@reginacoeliacademy.com

Wednesday, May 1, 2019, 9:30 AM-2:00 PM
Event: Mothers of Children with Disabilities Retreat "The Joy of Belonging"
This is a retreat for mothers and grandmothers who are raising children with disabilities and also those who have adult children with disabilities. There will be time to pray, reflect, and chat with other mothers.
Speaker: Fr. Willum Gillum, O.F.M.Cap.
Location: Malvern Retreat House, Malvern, PA
For more information, visit the website or call the Office for Persons with Disabilities at 215-587-3530. Click here for the flyer

Thursday, May 2, 2019, 11:30 AM
Event: The National Day of Prayer - Delaware County Celebration
Gather together with other residents of Delaware County for an observance of The 68th Annual National Day of Prayer. This year our theme is Love One Another, taken from John 13:34. Events will be held all over the country lifting our nation up to God in prayer. We encourage you to be a part of your local celebration. The event will begin at 11:30AM and last until around 2PM. Please bring blankets and chairs for comfort. Picnic lunches are welcome! Come and go as your schedule allows. We hope to see you there and be sure to BRING A FRIEND!
Location: Rose Tree Park, Media, PA
Event includes: Praise and Worship Music, Corporate Prayer led by community leaders and clergy, and Personal Private Healing Prayer Opportunities
To learn more: Visit the website

Friday, May 3, 2019, 7:00 PM
Event: First Friday Holy Hour: Consoling the Heart of Jesus
Join the Sisters of Life every first Friday for a holy hour of reparation and prayers for healing of the Church.
Location: St. Malachy's Church, 1429 N. 11th Street, Philadelphia
More info: No registration required; all are welcome!

Saturday, May 4, 2019 5:15 PM
Event: Wedding Anniversary Mass
The annual Wedding Anniversary Mass is celebrated to pray for and with married couples in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia who are married 1-5 years, and couples who have been married 25 years or more or who have been married 50 years or more.
Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul 18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway Philadelphia, PA 19103
More Information: Registration required. Please visit phillycatholiclife.org. View flyer here

Saturday, May 4, 2019, 12:30 PM-4:00 PM
Event: Healing Afternoon for Women
For all women seeking Catholic community, healing prayer, and freedom from anxiety, self-criticism and feelings of worthlessness. The small group setting allows for individual coaching time and the opportunity to go deeper into your personal healing journey. Come to one session or many (currently offered bi-monthly) as together we grow in freedom and live life more attuned to the Holy Spirit.
Facilitator: De Yarrison CPCC, Founder of You Are Made New Ministry
Location: Bryn Mawr, PA. Call or register for more details.
More info: https://youaremadenew.com/events/

Friday and Saturday, May 10 and 11, 2019
Event: Unbound: Freedom in Christ Conference
Come learn about the Unbound model of healing and deliverance, a simple process of prayer that will help set you free from the things that bind you. This conference is for those who wish to find freedom for themselves or want to learn how to help others find freedom.
Speakers: Neal, Matt and Janet Lozano, Heart of the Father Ministries
Location: St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church, Media, PA
More info: Visit the website

Tuesday, May 14 at 7:00 p.m.
Event: End of Life Issues presentation
Deacon Alfred Mauriello II, M.D., will give a special presentation on End of Life Issues including assisted suicide, living wills, pain management, hospice care and more. Dr. Mauriello has served on hospital-based medical ethics committees and has completed training in Catholic Health Care Ethics under the sponsorship of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Representatives from Surrey Services, Compassionate Care Hospice, elder law services and caregiver/ bereavement support programs will also be present. If you are a senior or are caring for an elderly parent, you won’t want to miss this opportunity!
Location: Saints Peter and Paul Church, 1325 East Boot Rd., West Chester, PA
For more information, contact Judy Magee, 484-473-8205.

Tuesday, May 14, 2019, 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Event: The Rights of the Laity in Church Law
Church law is so much more than a list of “do-nots.” It is a positive affirmation of the rights of the laity. An emphasis on these rights was an innovation when Saint Pope John Paul II promulgated the new Code of Canon (Church) Law in 1983. Our guest presenter will specifically explore what these rights (and responsibilities) are and how they serve the mission of the Church.
Speaker: Mr. Adam Dickerson, J.C.L., M.A.
Location: Saint Maria Goretti Chapel, 1601 Derstine Road, Hatfield
More info: Please register for this event at angela.mcclellan@stmariagoretti.net or 215-721-0199 (ext. 202). There is no cost to attend this presentation.

May 22, 2019 7-9 PM
Event: Colleen Campbell speaking on her new book “The Heart of Perfection: How the Saints Taught Me to Trade My Dream of Perfect for God’s”
Speaker: Colleen Campbell
Location: St. Agnes RC Church, 445 N Main Street, Sellersville PA
This is a free event. Colleen will follow her talk with a book signing. Sweet treats and fellowship in the Parish social hall. All are welcome

Thursday, May 23, 2019, 7:00 PM
Event: Beauty that Converts Our Hearts: the Martin Saints Choir + a James Matthew Wilson poetry lecture
Students from Philadelphia's newest Catholic classical high school will be singing. Villanova literature professor and poet James Matthew Wilson will read his poems and give a talk on truth, beauty, and goodness in the Catholic liberal arts. Student art will also be on display. Light refreshments afterwards. An opportunity to savor the best of Catholic culture and get to know this new school.
Location: Martin Saints Classical High School at Holy Martyrs parish, 120 Allison Road in Oreland.
More info: https://www.martinsaintsclassical.org/news/2019/4/9/beauty-that-converts-our-hearts

Fri, May 24, 9:30-11:30 AM
Event: (For Mothers) Five Keys to Freedom Unlocking the Power of the Gospel in Your Life
Come learn about the Five Keys of Unbound, a simple process of prayer that will help you unleash the liberating power of the Gospel into your life and find greater freedom. This presentation is for everyone. It can be especially helpful for situations such as: relationship problems, habitual sin, chronic anger, fear, sadness, or other areas of life where you feel "stuck" and unable to move forward.
Location: St. Pius X Moms Group, St. Pius X Parish, Broomall
More info: View the flyer; Please RSVP here; Childcare will be provided.

Friday May 31 at 3pm - Saturday, June 1, 2019, at 8:00pm
Event: Healing Retreat for Women
For women of all ages seeking deeper relationship with our Lord, authentic connection with other Catholic women and freedom from habitual patterns such as anxiety, self-criticism and feelings of worthlessness. Retreat includes Mass, teaching on the 5 Keys to Freedom in Christ, healing prayer, personal coaching, reflection, adoration, and more. Come, as together we grow in freedom and live life more attuned to the Holy Spirit.
Retreat leaders: Fr. Stephen DeLacy and De Yarrison of You Are Made New Ministry
Location: Mariawald Renewal Center in Reading, PA.
More info: https://youaremadenew.com/healing-retreats/ or de@youaremadenew.com

Beginning Sunday, June 2, 2019
Event: Remain in My Love Plenary Sessions for the Renewal of Marriage and Family Life
Individuals, couples and families of the Archdiocese are invited to hear national Catholic speakers break open the splendor of Christ's teachings on marriage and family as part of Archbishop Chaput's Remain in My Love initiative.
Speakers: Fr. Dennis Gill, Megan Murphy, Damon Owens
Location: Various parishes throughout the Archdiocese
More info: View the flyer and visit archphila.org/remain2019 for more info and RSVP

June 7-9, 2019
Event: Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers retreat for men and women
A dynamic, life-changing retreat entitled “Encountering the Joy of the Lord” with this world-renowned speaker, author and preacher as seen on EWTN.
Location: Malvern Retreat House, Malvern, PA
Speaker: Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers
To learn more: Visit the website at www.malvernretreat.com or call 610-644-0400

June 7-9, 2019
Event: Flourish retreat for women
A new retreat for women using the theme, “I Have Chosen You to Go and Bear Fruit” (John 15) This retreat creates space for a fresh encounter with the God who made us, the Son who loves us, and the Spirit who enlivens us with grace.
Location: Malvern Retreat House, Malvern, PA –Family Life Center
Directors: Sarah Christmyer and Heather Makowicz
To learn more: Visit the website at www.malvernretreat.com or call 610-644-0400

Second Thursdays beginning June 13, 2019, 10:00 AM-11:30 AM
Event: Nourish for Caregivers meeting
Nourish for Caregivers is for anyone juggling the challenges of everyday life, health, career and caring for a loved one, whether it be someone with special needs, an aging parent, spouse, friend or grandparent, in town or at a distance. Nourish provides caregivers a faith perspective, as well as practical and emotional supports, useful tools, and shared experiences.
Location: St. Anastasia Rectory Meeting Room, Newtown Square, PA
More info: No charge, walk-ins welcome, Questions? Contact Aimee at 610-724-8950 or aimeegustitis@outlook.com
More details and online RSVP: http://www.phillyevang.org/nourish/

Thursday, June 13, 2019, 8:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Event: Morning of Reflection for Grandparents, "The Grace of Being Grand"
This special day begins with the 8:30 AM Mass in our chapel. Following Mass, we will enjoy a continental breakfast and a conference by our guest presenter, Deacon Anthony Bellitto.
Location: Saint Maria Goretti Church in Hatfield
More info: Cost is $10.00 per person. To register, visit the Adult Faith events page at www.stmariagoretti.net. Questions? Contact Angela at 215-721-0199 (ext. 202) or angela.mcclellan@stmariagoretti.net.

Saturday, June 15, 2019
Event: Be Not Afraid! Family Vocation Day
Please join us as we welcome keynote speaker Leah Darrow for a day for families and individuals of all ages as we explore the possibilities for vocations in the Church. Bishop Timothy Senior, the Pauline Fathers & Brothers, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and members of several religious communities will share with you their way of life, with talks for all ages: children, teens, adults--indeed, everyone who supports and prays for religious vocations. May we heed the call of our beloved St. John Paul II as he encourages us to "Be Not Afraid!" which is the theme of this day of prayerful reflection.
Location: National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, Doylestown, PA
More info: View the Save the Date

June 15, 2019 6:30AM -2:15 PM
Event: Dr. Scott Hahn giving three talks “Given for You, Sacrifice of the Mass”, “How to get the Most out of Mass” and "Evangelizing Catholics" or "The Healing Power of Confession"
Speaker: Dr. Scott Hahn
Location: St. Agnes RC Church 445 N Main Street, Sellersville PA
To learn more: Visit https://stpaulcenter.com/sellersville/

June 21-23, 2019
Event: Dr. Mary Healy retreat for men and women
World-renowned author, speaker, retreat master addressing the theme of her new book, “Healing: Bringing the Gift of God’s Mercy to the World.” Is Jesus still healing today? Are these healings real? Do they last? A powerful retreat weekend which includes a healing service. Come and find out!
Location: Malvern Retreat House, Malvern, PA
To learn more: Visit the website at www.malvernretreat.com or call 610-644-0400

Saturday, June 22, 2019, 9am
Event: Relevant Radio National ELEVATE Conference
Meet and pray alongside Relevant Radio show hosts during this national Catholic conference! The day includes enlightening presentations, encouragement, laughter, Mass, holy hour with adoration, continental breakfast and boxed lunches.
Location: National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, Doylestown, PA
Speakers include: Patrick Madrid, Drew Mariani, Fr. Richard Simon, Fr. Matthew Spencer, Msgr. Stuart Swetland, Sheila Liaugminas
To learn more: Visit the website: www.relevantradio.com/elevate or email Mary Radford at mradford@relevantradio.com

Friday, June 28, 2019, 7:00-10:00 PM
Event: Living Every Day with Passion & Purpose with Internationally Acclaimed Speaker Matthew Kelly
Are you thriving or just surviving? Do you want more energy? A deeper sense of purpose? Join us for Living Every Day with Passion & Purpose, presented by internationally acclaimed speaker Matthew Kelly. It’s not your typical church event.
Location: Saint Helena Parish, Blue Bell, PA
Speakers include: Matthew Kelly & Eliot Morris
To learn more: Visit the website. An early sellout is expected!

Saturday, June 29, 2019, 7:00-10:00 PM
Event: Living Every Day with Passion & Purpose with Internationally Acclaimed Speaker Matthew Kelly
Are you thriving or just surviving? Do you want more energy? A deeper sense of purpose? Join us for Living Every Day with Passion & Purpose, presented by internationally acclaimed speaker Matthew Kelly. It’s not your typical church event.
Location: St. Ephrem Catholic Church, Bensalem, PA
Speakers include: Matthew Kelly & Eliot Morris
To learn more: Visit the website An early sellout is expected!

July 8-18, 2019
Event: Philadelphia Catholic Scholars Program
Male juniors and seniors in high school are invited to apply for the 2019 Philadelphia Catholic Scholars Program: "Truth, Beauty, Goodness." The PCSP is a residential, college-accredited program gathering young men for a rich spiritual and intellectual journey studying the great texts and ideas of western civilization. Taught by seminary and university faculty on the grounds of St. Charles Borromeo Seminary. Applications accepted on a rolling basis, available online.
Location: St. Charles Borromeo Seminary, Wynnewood, PA
Professors include: Dr. Kevin Hughes, James Despres, Dr. Paul Camacho, Dr. Kelly Anderson
To learn more: Visit the website: PhiladelphiaCatholicScholars.org

Wednesday -Saturday, July 17-20, 2019
Event: 38th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of FertilityCare Professionals (AAFCP)
The purpose of this education program is to enhance the knowledge of FertilityCare Practitioners, nurses, physicians, other healthcare professionals, and clergy by addressing topics relevant to the Creighton Model FertilityCare System, NaProTECHNOLOGY, natural methods of fertility regulation, and allied fields. The program updates participants on current activities, research, and trends and focuses on future goals of FertilityCare Professionals.
Location: Normandy Farm Hotel and Conference Center, Blue Bell, PA
Speakers include: Bishop John J. McIntyre, Dr. Thomas Hilgers, Dr. Faith Daggs, Damon Owens of EWTN , Dr. Peter Kleponis and more!
To learn more: Visit the website: www.aafcp.net

Five Wednesdays starting July 24, 2019 – 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Event: We Thirst: Christian Reflections on Addiction
All are invited to experience an inspirational and educational series that fosters mercy, faith, hope and love. Expand your knowledge and your heart through these sessions!
Location: Archdiocese of Philadelphia/Catholic Social Services, 222 N 17th Street, Philadelphia
For more information: Visit the website

LOOKING AHEAD...

September 6-7, 2019 - NCBC Catholic Health Care Ethics Seminar, Philadelphia
October 2019 - Extraordinary Month of Mission
October 12, 2019 - Called and Gifted Workshop, Philadelphia
October 26, 2019 - Catholic Women's Conference, Doylestown
May 26-June 6, 2020 - Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to World-Famous Oberammergau Passion Play, Austria and Bavaria

Hope in Christ: Spiritual Support for Addiction events: archphila.org/hope

SUPPORT OUR MISSION! Consider making a donation to the New Evangelization Fund: Igniting the Faithful, Seeking the Lost. Your donation will go directly to supporting the work of the Office for the New Evangelization in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Click here to DONATE.