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“Evangelization begins with baptized Catholics rediscovering the joys of being Christian”
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SCULPTURE: LOURA DOBBS — PHOTO: VALETA ORLANDO | FC
ORLANDO | As people planning to enter full communion with the Catholic Church this Easter and their sponsors entered the narthex at the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe in Orlando Feb. 10 for the rite of election, St. Peter beckoned them to come a little closer.¶ Bobbie Chaplinski of the shrine staff said of the towering bronze sculpture, “It seems when you’re in the narthex, walking into the main church, he (the statue) has his hands out to the doors with keys, welcoming you.” The statue was dedicated that morning by Bishop Thomas Wenski, who was assisted by Father Edward J. McCarthy, the shrine’s rector.¶ Loura Dobbs of Studio23Sculpture in Orlando is the designer. Dobbs specializes in full-figure human design, from clay to final mold. She has also sculpted a bronze tribute bust of Pope John Paul II for the shrine.¶ Last May, people gathered here to celebrate the elevation of the shrine to national status by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, the completion of significant work and to recognize its ministry to millions of Orlando visitors. Chaplinski added, “It was Msgr. Joseph Harte’s vision to have a statue of welcome.” ¶ Msgr. Harte was the first rector of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe.
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«Record number becoming Catholic this Easter
Sixty-five parishes and a mission presented 569 catechumens, the largest number seeking to enroll their names in the Book of the Elect in the 40-year history of the Diocese of Orlando.
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How to grow a strong family? Try 40 days of Lent
When Heidi Peckham announced “no television for lent” in a household of small screen fans, what happened in the Peckham family was even a surprise for mom. Plus: Productive Lenten activities for families
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News Briefs
Church unity in College Park; Schoolchildren remember Lourdes; and other photos.
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