October eNews: Voters Guides, Vatican Clarification & Some Serious Prayer This Fall!

“I repeat, there is no problem, as difficult as it may be, that we cannot resolve at this time by praying the Holy Rosary.”

– Sr. Lucia of Fatima; October, the Month of the Rosary

Evangelization News, Tips & Ideas

Faithful Citizenship:

2020 Voter Information from the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference

The Pennsylvania Catholic Conference, public policy arm of the state’s Catholic bishops, presents information intended to inform and educate Catholic voters before the 2020 general election. Click below to see a comparison on issues of interest to Catholics for the two presidential candidates, in English and Spanish, and a scorecard on how Pennsylvania legislators voted on bills supported or opposed by the PCC.

Presidential comparison:
English— Spanish
State: State legislative races in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia

Vatican Document on the Valid Formula for the Rite of Baptism

Recent Catholic news stories have recounted to us the troubling reality of some Baptisms being invalid, even in the cases of some priests, because of the alteration of the formula for Baptism prescribed by the Church. This has brought to light the seriousness of fidelity to the words and prayers prescribed by the Church's liturgical books for each of the Sacraments. The recent Vatican document that brought this issue to the fore and explains the Church's teachings can be found at the link below:

"...Modifying on one’s own initiative the form of the celebration of a Sacrament does not constitute simply a liturgical abuse, like the transgression of a positive norm, but a vulnus [wound] inflicted upon the ecclesial communion and the identifiability of Christ’s action, and in the most grave cases rendering invalid the Sacrament itself, because the nature of the ministerial action requires the transmission with fidelity of that which has been received (cf. 1 Cor 15:3).... Click here to read the full document

Let Us Return to the Eucharist with Joy!

Robert Cardinal Sarah

Enjoy this beautiful reflection from Robert Cardinal Sarah, Prefect of the Vatican's Congregation for Divine Worship, inviting all of us to continue to press forward in returning to the in person celebration of the Mass. The links to the English and Spanish versions are below.

Document: Let us return to the Eucharist with joy! English / Español

Great books from Robert Cardinal Sarah:

Office for the New Evangelization Events

Eucharistic Day of Prayer for
Healing and Peace
in Our City and Nation

Saturday, October 10, 2020 - Noon-6:30 PM

Let us come before the Lord, truly present to us in the Most Blessed Sacrament, with all our many prayers and petitions for healing and peace within us and among us. After 12:05 PM Mass, the Most Blessed Sacrament will be solemnly exposed for adoration until 5:00 PM with the prayer of the Holy Rosary during each hour according to these intentions:

1-2 PM – Hour of Prayer for an End to Violence in our Neighborhoods (Joyful Mysteries; led by the Nepomuceno Family)
2-3 PM – Hour of Prayer for an End to Divisions in our Families and Communities (Luminous Mysteries; led by the Tolton Ambassadors)
3-4 PM – Hour of Prayer for the Protection of Human Life, Marriage and the Family (Sorrowful Mysteries; led by the Sisters of Life)
4-5 PM – Hour of Prayer an Outpouring of the Gift of Reconciliation in Our Nation (Glorious Mysteries; led by the Cathedral Young Adults)

Location:

Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia

More info:

All are welcome; no registration is required.
Free parking is available in the Cathedral parking lot.

Click here for the flyer and full details

or visit cathedralphila.org/eucharist.

Holy Hour for the Election:

50 People, 50 States, One Hour

Sunday, November 1, 2020 - 2:00-3:00 PM

Solemnity of All Saints

Join us for an hour of prayer and adoration before Jesus in the Eucharist as we petition for grace and blessing upon our country, especially asking for God’s will to be accomplished in the upcoming presidential election. We hope for at least 50 people to be present, one for each State of the United States of America, but more are welcome! Please kindly RSVP if you plan to attend at the link below.

Location:

Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia, PA

Click here for the flyer: English / Español

Registration: Click here to register

Around the Archdiocese

Below you will find online Catholic events being offered 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 Sarah at salbanese@archphila.org for consideration.

September 23-November 1, 2020

Event: Philadelphia 40 Days for Life

40 Days for Life is a focused, 40-day, non-stop, round-the-clock prayer vigil outside a single Planned Parenthood center or other abortion facility in your community. It is a peaceful and educational presence. Those who are called to stand witness during this 24-hour-a-day presence send a powerful message to the community about the tragic reality of abortion. Sign up for a time slot in which to pray and give witness to the sanctity of life outside of Planned Parenthood in Philadelphia. Or, find a location near you at the website below.

Location: 1144 Locust Street (public right-of-way in front of Planned Parenthood) Philadelphia, PA 19107

More information: Visit https://www.40daysforlife.com/local-campaigns/philadelphia/ and consider signing up for a prayer vigil time slot!

Thursday, September 24, 2020 - 3:30-4:30 PM
Event: Religious Liberty at the Supreme Court, Presented by The Eleanor H. McCullen Center for Law, Religion and Public Policy

The Supreme Court’s 2019-20 term included major developments in the First Amendment’s guarantee of religious freedom. This webinar will discuss the three religious liberty cases that the Court decided this past summer. Constitutional scholars Michael Moreland, University Professor of Law and Religion & Director of the Eleanor H. McCullen Center for Law, Religion and Public Policy at Villanova University, and Stephanie Barclay, Associate Professor of Law at the University of Notre Dame, will discuss these recent cases as well as preview upcoming cases the Court will hear this year.

More info: This event will be offered online. Click here to register.

Thursday September 24th and the following six Thursdays- 7:30 PM

Event: Women’s Study of The "Wild Goose" series
Join women throughout the Archdiocese for a virtual study. The "Wild Goose” is a video-based discussion series about the Holy Spirit and how the Spirit works in our lives and in the world. Participants will watch the videos on Formed.org and discuss them each week via Zoom starting September 24th at 7:30 PM. To view The "Wild Goose" Trailer" visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ptWtIhcRC9E

More info: Email Sarah at sarah.albanese@gmail.com

Friday, September 25, 2020 - 7:00-9:15 AM

Event: “Faith in the Marketplace: A Personal Journey”

A presentation by Thomas S. Monaghan: Founder of Domino's Pizza, Founder of Legatus, Former owner Detroit Tigers, Author, “Pizza Tiger”

Hosted by: Malvern Retreat House, Malvern, PA

More info: This morning event will be offered in person or online. Onsite Cost: $100 per couple; $75 per person; Virtual Cost: $25 per person; For more information or to register, please contact Tara McCormickat 484-321-2534 or email tmccormick@malvernretreat.com.

September 25-27, 2020

Event: Restore Culture Virtual Workshops

The Restore Culture Workshop is a FREE three-day online event. During this weekend, attendees will be invited to learn from experts on various topics related to life, love, family, and holiness, but also to hear personal testimonies and unique experiences from people of all backgrounds. This event is perfect for educators and youth mentors who work with teens and young people, but also for parents who want resources to help them form their children in some of the most sensitive and important truths of the Church on what it means to be human. We’re covering topics like chastity, pornography, dating, marriage, parenting, healing and restoration, identity, and other social, cultural, and family issues.

Speakers include: Jason and Crystalina Evert, Sarah Swafford, Matt Lozano, Fr. Phil Bochanski, Fr. Boniface Hicks and many more!

More info & registration: Click here

Saturday, September 26, 2020 - 3:00-4:15 PM
Event: "What Happens to Us in the Liturgy?"

Presenter: Dr. David Fagerberg, University of Notre Dame

Sponsored by: Society for Catholic Liturgy

More info and registration: This talk will be offered via Zoom. Click this link to register: http://liturgysociety.org/events

Sunday, September 27th, 2020 – 6:30 pm

Event: Annual Archdiocesan Mass for Respect Life Month

All are invited to celebrate Mass with Archbishop Nelson Pérez on September 27th at the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul. Join us preceding Mass at 5:15 pm for a Holy Hour for Life with the Sisters of Life. This is also the Archdiocesan opening Mass for the Fall Campaign for 40 days for Life in Philadelphia as well as the official Philadelphia launching of the year-long initiative ‘Walking with Moms in Need.’ Please join us!

For more information, click HERE for the flyer or call The Office for Life and Family at 215-587-0500.

September 28, 30 and October 1, 2020 - 7:00 PM
Lecture Series: Modernity and the Gift of the Given: John Paul II's Authentic Theology of Integral Human Liberation

September 28: "The Primacy of God"
September 30: "Truth and Freedom"
October 1: "Integral Liberation"

Presenter: Dr. Schindler, Edouard Cardinal Gagnon Professor of Fundamental Theology and Dean Emeritus of the John Paul I Institute

Location: Livestreamed and in person (in Washington, DC)

More info: The lectures will be available via livestreaming. Please contact 202-526-3799 or mrice@johnpaulii.edu to add your name to the guest list. Everyone who has RSVP'd will be contacted in September with the livestreaming link, or with a seat reservation, if available. Click here for more details

September 2020-May 2021 - First and Third Sundays of Each Month

Event: Bible Novena

The Word of God is living and speaks to each of us daily. Each day, we turn to God and ask for His guidance and strength. This is accomplished no better than by turning to the Bible - the inspired word of God. Between September 2020 and May 2021, the Vocation Office will be praying an extended Novena, reading the entire Bible over the course of these 9 months, and we invite you to join us as we proclaim and hear the word of God and listen for His voice in our lives. Video reflections from local presenters will be made available to accompany your reflection.

Sponsored by: The Vocations Office for the Diocesan Priesthood

More info: https://heedthecall.org/BibleNovena/

Wednesday, September 30, 2020 - 7:00 PM
Event: Permanent Diaconate Information Night (on Zoom)
We invite Catholic men (and their wives if married) with a deep spiritual life who are between the ages of 29 and 55, and would like to discern a call to serve Jesus Christ and His Church within the Archdiocese of Philadelphia as permanent deacons to take the next step. After the introductory talk about the vocation to the Permanent Diaconate there will be time for Q & A.

More info: No commitment is required to attend. This event will take place on Zoom. Visit archphila.org/deacon to register.

Rosary Campaign for an End to the Coronavirus
“…there is no problem, as difficult as it may be, that we cannot resolve at this time by praying the Holy Rosary.” – Sr. Lucia of Fatima
Join us online, by phone or in spirit as we pray the Rosary asking the miraculous intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary to put an end to the coronavirus and to bring restoration to those most severely impacted by the pandemic.

Rosary in English: Monday through Thursday at 8 PM until further notice
Rosario en español: De lunes a jueves a las 8 PM hasta nuevo aviso

For more details and log-in, visit: http://www.phillyevang.org/rosary

Continuing Tuesday September 29th, October, 6th, 13th and 20th-

9:30-11:00 AM

Event: 33 Days to Greater Glory-Virtual Study

Adult Faith Discussion being offered in person as well as virtually on Zoom. We will delve into the deep meaning of John's Gospel as he leads us to the Father: In this third installment of his 33-day consecration series, Fr. Michael Gaitley, MIC, leads us, in the company of St. John in a consecration to our Heavenly Father through Jesus the Son. There is no cost to participate. Please purchase the book on your own and also have a Catholic edition of the Bible.

Location: St. Mary Magdalene Parish in Media, PA or via Zoom

More info: Please email Nicky Verna at nicky@verna.com or 610-639-3816 (call or text) to confirm your attendance and for the Zoom access information.

October 2020-May 2021 - Second Tuesdays of each month
Event: Catholic Grandparents Zoom Meeting
Grandparents! You have a great influence for evangelizing the family. A Catholic Grandparents ministry is being organized to support other Grandparents and to pray for our children and grandchildren. Please join us to learn how you can help build a vibrant Grandparents ministry and become equipped to pass on the faith. Our meetings are currently taking place via Zoom due to COVID-19. Our next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday October 13 7pm to 8:30pm.
More info: Contact Lidia Manieri 610-350-7232 lidia@mmanieri.com or Paul and Mary Kay Dunne 610-724-6534

October 1, 2 and 3, 2020 - 6:40 PM Rosary; 7 PM Holy Mass

Event: Triduum in Honor of St. Therese (Feast Day, October 1)

Join the Philadelphia Carmelite Sisters for their annual Triduum honoring the Little Flower. Parking is available. The closing Mass will be a Solemn High Mass in the Extraordinary Form (Latin Mass).

Location: Carmelite Monastery, 1400 66th Avenue, Philadelphia

More info: View the flyer

October 1-3, 2020

Event: Unbound Freedom in Christ Conference (online)

UNBOUND is a ministry of freedom and healing that helps us to release the POWER OF THE GOSPEL into our lives. We all have areas in our lives where we don’t experience freedom. These can be patterns of habitual sin, addictions, negative thoughts, resentments, and other forms of spiritual difficulty. Jesus came to set us free by breaking the power of sin and revealing the love of God. At the UNBOUND: Freedom in Christ Conference, you will learn how to unlock your prison doors by using the FIVE KEYS TO FREEDOM The conference involves times of prayer and worship, insightful teaching, and personal ministry from our ministry team. This conference will equip you to cooperate with God as He sets you free.

More info: $25.00 to attend; Conference details can be found at: https://www.heartofthefather.com/events/schedule/online-conference

Sunday October 4th, 2020, 11:00 AM

Event: 20th Anniversary of the Canonization of Saint Katharine Drexel Mass

Join us on Sunday, October 4, 2020, at the 11 AM Solemn Mass to celebrate the 20^th Anniversary of Saint Katharine Drexel’s Canonization. She was declared and canonized a saint by Pope Saint John Paul II on October 1, 2000. All are welcome to present intentions and petitions at the Saint Katharine Drexel Shrine, to be placed at the Tomb of Saint Katharine, asking her heavenly assistance.
Prayer intentions may also be sent online through the website.

Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
1723 Race St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

More info: http://cathedralphila.org/20th-anniversary-of-the-canonization-of-saint-katharine-drexel/

October 9-10, October 23-24th, November 6-7th and

December 4-5th, 2020

Event: Archdiocesan Marriage Preparation Courses For Engaged Couples

We are thrilled for you and your upcoming marriage! The Archdiocese of Philadelphia offers the Joy-Filled Marriage Program, a thorough, enjoyable, and comprehensive program, which discusses practical “life skills” and the sacramentality of marriage. The purpose of Marriage Preparation is to introduce you to the theology behind the sacrament and give you practical advice using sound psychology that will equip you for your life journey together. All courses are being delivered in a live online format until further notice.

For more information and to register, visit: phillycatholicmarriageprep.com

Saturday, October 10, 2020 - Noon-6:30 PM
Event: Eucharistic Day of Prayer for Healing and Peace in Our City and Nation

1-2 PM – Hour of Prayer for an End to Violence in our Neighborhoods (Joyful Mysteries)
2-3 PM – Hour of Prayer for an End to Divisions in our Families and Communities (Luminous Mysteries)
3-4 PM – Hour of Prayer for the Protection of Human Life, Marriage and the Family (Sorrowful Mysteries)
4-5 PM – Hour of Prayer an Outpouring of the Gift of Reconciliation in Our Nation (Glorious Mysteries)

Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia

More info: All are welcome; no registration is required. Free parking is available in the Cathedral parking lot. Click here for the flyer and full details or visit cathedralphila.org/eucharist.

Saturday, October 10, 2020 - 7:00-8:30 PM
Event: Our Lady and the Rosary: Our Anchor in Troubled Times

During these troubled times in which we live, Our Lady and the Rosary are the antidote. Join us for an evening of reflection (in person or online) in which we explore power of the Rosary to conquer our problems - both personal and in the world - and what you can do to develop a stronger relationship with the Blessed Mother. Come and discover how much Our Lady wants to give you her peace and maternal protection!

Speaker: Meghan Cokeley, Director, Office for the New Evangelization, Archdiocese of Philadelphia

Location: St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, Ambler, PA

More info: You may attend this event in person or watch it online. See the flyer for full details

Sunday, October 11, 2020- 5:30 PM

Event: Recitation of the Holy Rosary Coast to Coast for the Nation on Sunday

Join us on October 11th at 5:30 PM followed by Holy Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul. The Rosary Coast to Coast, in union with the Holy League of Nations are holding rosary rallies throughout the United States in a powerful day of public prayer for our nation as we ask the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary for the protection of our country and the world during this critical time. Also, the Fifth Annual Rosary Rally will be held on the steps of the US Capitol in Washington, D.C. on October 11th for the same intention.

Location: Cathedral Basilica of St. Peter and Paul, 18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19103

More information: https://rosarycoasttocoast.com/rosary-coast-to-coast-2020/

Saturday, October 17, 2020

Event: Archdiocese of Philadelphia Catholic Charismatic Renewal 2020 VIRTUAL CONFERENCE

Live-streamed from the National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa

Join us for a day filled with Internationally known Speakers such as: MARIA VADIA, FR. JOSEPH ITA-SAM, CM, FR. RAFAL WALCZYK, OSPPE and BOB VALIANTE.

At a time when people are feeling isolated and alone, let Jesus minister to you with

uplifting teachings, anointed praise and worship, healings at all levels and a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Day concludes with Vigil Mass and Healing Service.

Registration fee of $35 includes the Virtual Conference and the ongoing work of spreading the Grace of the Holy Spirit in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Special Registration Pricing for WATCH PARTIES $35 for first person; $10 each additional. Join with friends or family, locally, nationally, or internationally!

For tickets and more information visit: www.PhillySpirit.com, email us:
info@PhillySpirit.com or call at 215-315-7008.

Saturday, October 17, 2020 - 5:15 PM

Event: Wedding Anniversary Mass, Philadelphia

The annual Wedding and Anniversary mass to pray for and with married couples in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia who are married 1-25 years and couples who have been married 25 years or more or 5o years or more. The mass will be celebrated by Archbishop Nelson Perez.

Location: Cathedral Basilica of St. Peter and Paul, 18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19103

More information: View the flyer

Wednesday, October 21, 2020 - 7:00-8:30 PM
Lecture: Built Upon Rock: Finding Your Footing in a Period of Great Turmoil

Providentially, this year’s tumultuous presidential election coincides with the 25th anniversary of the great papal encyclical, Evangelium Vitae, which contains the Church’s fundamental teachings on the dignity of the human person and our unrelenting obligation to uphold that dignity in all aspects of life and society. Join us for an evening lecture on how these teachings provide us with the grounding we need to keep our footing and navigate confidently through these difficult and turbulent times.

Presenter: Christine Flowers, immigration attorney and columnist

Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia

More info and registration: Click here for the flyer; Please register at http://cathedralphila.org/lecture/

Monday, October 26, 2020 - 7:45 -8:30 PM
Event: Rosary for the End of the Coronavirus in Person

Join us in person at Annunciation Parish as we pray the Rosary together for the end of the coronavirus!

Location: Annunciation BVM Parish, 401 Brookline Rd. Havertown, PA

More info: In order not to exceed social distancing capacity in the Church, pre-registration is required. Click here to register to attend

Wednesday, October 28, 2020- 7:00-9:00 PM

Event: Lector Workshop
This workshop is a training for lectors in the ministry of proclaiming the Word of God during the liturgy. It will take place at Saint Joseph's Parish, in Downingtown, PA from 7:00 to 9:00 PM in the Main Church.

More information: To register, please EMAIL the workshop date, your name, and name of your parish using this link: worship@archphila.org. You can also visit http://www.odwphiladelphia.org/workshops/ for more information.

Save the Date!

Saturday, November 7, 2020 at 1:00 PM

Event: St. Martin de Porres Mass and Confirmation with Black Catholic Apostolate Parishes

Celebrant: Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez

Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia

More information coming soon!

Friday, November 13th-Sunday November 14th

Event: Catholic Moms Summit

So many of us struggle to find joy within our vocation of motherhood, and this Summit is here to help you do exactly that. Our dynamic presenters will be sharing inspiration, wisdom, and encouragement from a wide variety of experiences and backgrounds, and this event is a great opportunity for you to connect with other moms just like you from around the world. I know it will be an experience unlike anything you've ever done before. Be sure to register, and then share this unique event with your friends

More information: To register go to: Catholic Moms Summit

Saturday, November 14, 2020- 9:30-12:00 PM

Event: Workshop in Spanish for Lectors and Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion

Join us for this workshop from 9:30 AM to Noon. 12:05 PM Mass to follow
Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, 18th and Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19103 Parking available

Courage and Encourage Chapters in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia

“In life, God accompanies persons,” Pope Francis says, “and we must accompany them, starting from their situation. We must accompany them with mercy.” The Courage apostolate is the Church’s invitation to people who experience same-sex attractions, who desire to live in accord with the Gospel call to chastity. A confidential support group led by a priest chaplain, Courage accompanies men and women along the road to integration, freedom and discipleship. Visit the Courage website at www.couragerc.org if you want to learn more. For more information about our local chapter please call: 215-587-4505 or email courage.philadelphia@gmail.com. All inquiries are confidential.

EnCourage is a ministry within the Catholic Church dedicated to the spiritual needs of parents, siblings, children, and other relatives and friends of persons who have same-sex attractions. Standing by the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church, EnCourage members support one another and their loved ones through discussion, prayer and fellowship. Please visit the Courage website at www.couragerc.org if you want to learn more. For more information about our local chapter please call: 215-587-4505 or email courage.philadelphia@gmail.com. All inquiries are confidential.

Monthly meetings, various times and locations

Event: SoulCore virtual classes

The SoulCore Rosary workout integrates core-strengthening, stretching and functional movements with the prayers of the rosary. We begin with some basic stretches to warm up the body and recite the Apostle’s Creed. Push-ups are done throughout each of the Our Father’s. The movements vary for each of the Hail Mary’s. And a stretching position of surrender brings us to each Glory Be. Each Mystery begins with a scripture verse and a reflection, offering a time of rest and encouraging deeper reflection on the virtues of each Mystery.

More information: Email Nicky Verna at n icky@verna.com.

Monthly meetings, various times and locations

Event: Nourish for Caregivers Support Groups

In a recent Sunday Gospel Jesus reminds us that he desires mercy, not sacrifice. Mt 9:13 For caregivers, life is often all about sacrifice. Whether it is putting their own needs aside until the end of the day or forgoing self-care altogether, exhaustion and frustration can be ever present companions. This month, Nourish offers the topic "The Thing About Compassion." We focus on caring for the caregiver because this role is not just about sacrifice, but also availing one's self to the loving embrace from our merciful Jesus and his most Blessed Mother. The ministry meets in-person at a variety of times and locations throughout the Archdiocese as well as virtually via Zoom.
More information: visit http://www.phillyevang.org/nourish/ or contact Aimee Gustitis at 610-724-8950 or aimeegustitis@outlook.com.