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| May 15, 2008 |
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 Happy 40th Orlando Diocese!05.10.08 
The exact date of the anniversary for the Diocese of Orlando will be June 18, 2008. The diocese will commemorate this event with a time capsule that will include selected artwork submitted by locals in four categories. The soon to be encapsulated images are by Christina Perito, category 1: preschool — grade 3, Kylie Routson, category 2: grades 4–7, Ryan Mouser, category 3: grades 8–12, and Florence Reformato, category 4: ages 18 and up. Their work was proudly displayed on an expansive double–sided wall at the Catholic Expo and Ministries Fair throughout the Festival, which many intently paused to enjoy. Posted On: May 12, 2008 God given rites05.10.08  MELANIE L. DODSON | FC The ending celebration Mass for the Festival was particularly special for the hundreds of people who received the rite of initiation. “I felt excited, nervous, because it was my first time. I did good I think,” said Megan Pieske, 8, from the Church of the Resurrection in Orlando who received her First Communion. Her mother, Samantha, became confirmed. “I’ve been to the Church for awhile and really enjoyed and wanted to be a part of it,” said Pieske, tenderly resting her hands around the bulging home she carries with the 5–month beginning of a baby girl who will someday be baptized. Posted On: May 12, 2008 Education as celebration05.10.08 Education of the mind and spirit was one of the main goals of the Festival of Faith. With multiple programs available bi–hourly throughout the event, it would have been difficult to miss learning something. “It’s beautiful – everything; building your knowledge from Catholic knowledge,” said Maria Teresa Ortiz of San Jose Catholic Church in Jacksonville. Although Jacksonville is not a part of the Orlando Diocese area, Ortiz learned of the Festival from her friend Luz Garcia of Good Shepherd Parish in Orlando. Upon receiving her Festival invitation in the mail, Garcia excitedly called Ortiz to further extend the invitation. In reflection of her Festival experience, Garcia said, “It’s wonderful! Everything is so perfect, so beautiful, so spiritual.” Every person with whom I had the privilege of conversing expressed these sentiments. Under the direction of Carol Brinati, secretary of Evangelization, the Festival of Faith Committee strove to ensure the multicultural community was fully celebrated through participation. Many lectures, films, and choirs were offered in Spanish language, and the liturgies rotated through a variety of languages. “I work around the Church, and if people come in, I’m always trying to get them involved,” said Amelia Updike of Holy Spirit Parish in Lake Wales, “that’s the only way you’re going to feel a part of it – is if you’re doing things – so I invite them to get involved.” Posted On: May 12, 2008 Knighted kindness05.10.08 Unity, Charity, Paternity, and Patriotism are the four orders of the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic men’s service organization, which has 1.7 million members worldwide. Dozens of local Knights participated in the Festival – serving in the masses as ushers, operating a booth at the Expo, or just being a positive presence to those around them. A Knight in regalia is easily distinguishable by the pouffy colored hat, a matching color cape, and a majestic sword at their side. If a visitor at the Festival approached a Knight, the visitor would find patience, kindness, and any information or assistance needed. Youth attendees seemed to be particularly interested in speaking with these men. They would learn that in order to become a Knight of Columbus, one must be age 18 or older, male, and a practicing Catholic. They would listen in awe about the decorated steel blade made in Toledo, Spain. They would hear that in 1882 the organization was founded in Connecticut, which is now the international headquarters. Then, educated and inspired, they would part with a smile. Posted On: May 11, 2008 Donating thanks05.10.08 There is no admission fee to enjoy the Festival of Faith, however, participants were requested to bring a donation of canned food for the physically hungry. These donations will be distributed to food banks and pantries in Central Florida operated by various Catholic charities. This action of providing sustenance for the world through love is core to the values and message of the Church. Honestly — I forgot. After deciding to raid my pantry on Friday night for packages of goodness, I snapped my fingers in self–annoyance on Saturday when I realized I had left my donation behind. Then it occurred to me; it doesn’t matter. As a resident of Central Florida and the world in general, I can personally bring my donation to the needy at any time. Sunday sounds like a great day to give a gift of thanksgiving as that it is God’s special day of rest and praise. Sure enough, the Catholic Charities Web site lists locations that accept food donations. Posted On: May 11, 2008 Elaborate Expo of enlightenment05.10.08 
MELANIE L. DODSON | FC
My jaw dropped, both literally and metaphorically, this morning when I stepped off the downward escalator and walked into the Catholic Expo and Ministry Fair located in Exhibition Hall A. Colorful banners formed a canopy over several hundred booths put together by parishes, ministries and religious orders for the many thousands of interested Festival visitors. “I love this – just seeing all the different people coming in the doors,” said Katie Quinn of Most Precious Blood parish in Oviedo, “each one of them is in a different place in their journey of faith.” Quinn stands at the entrance to the Evangelization Pavilion to give passersby concise postcard–esque handouts listing resources for Evangelization. 
MELANIE L. DODSON | FC Various choirs perform throughout the day on the west side of the Expo, and a lounge located in the back (north) of the hall offers spiritual pictures for children to color. If donated, the pictures hang on an expansive double–sided display wall, which many pause to enjoy. Jerrie Newland of St. Thomas parish in St. Cloud is most pleased that “we’re making connections with other families and youth ministries.” Excitement is easily visible in the faces of visitors who realize there is something of delight for everyone available in the surroundings. Many of the faces, and even appendages, show the beautiful artwork remnant of a visit to the face painting booth in the children’s exhibit area. A Dining area is also located in the hall, which includes BBQ, Pizza, a Grill and Deli, as well as salads, fruit, chips, candy and a variety of beverages. Posted On: May 10, 2008 Nourishment of body and soul05.09.08 Much honor was found at the Festival dinner banquet Friday night with 750 attendees. Papal and Diocesan awards were given to 113 extraordinary members of the Catholic community while onlookers dined on Cornish hen. Carl Rose was knighted Sir Carl Rose at the banquet by receiving the St. Gregory the Great Award for outstanding community and Church service as a lay person. “I feel real good,” said Sir Rose, “I appreciate all of it – giving me the award and all the people we serve; they’re a great bunch of people.” A video about the history of the Diocese was shown after the awards. The dinner ended with a speech by George Weigel, Catholic theologian, columnist and author of numerous books including Encouraged to be Catholic. In his speech, Weigel proposed five themes for growing in life as a Catholic: • Delight in the adventure of Christian Orthodox, such as the adventure of reciting the creed on Sundays. • Set the bar high; “Never, ever settle for less than the spiritual and moral grandeur that through God’s grace can be yours.” • Keep your gaze on Christ, and you will never lose your way. • Faith and reason go together. • Democracy is something of an experiment which depends on the virtues of the people. Posted On: May 10, 2008 Pedal partnership05.09.08 
MELANIE L. DODSON | FC Festival attendees of all walks of life traveled from one of the nine counties that make up the Diocese of Orlando to enjoy the anniversary celebration. With over 2.1 million–square feet of exhibition area at the Orange County Convention Center available, many people get tired from walking. Catherine Ojeda, 31, is the owner of the Redi Pedi Cab Company that works in Orlando to give pedestrians an opportunity to travel in style. The company is operating outside the convention center for the Festival from 7 a.m. until all guests have gone home. Look for the bike carriages peddled by smiling athletes in white t–shirts to save your soles. Posted On: May 10, 2008 Rhythm of Catholic hearts05.09.08 
MELANIE L. DODSON | FC Students swayed in their seats, snapped their fingers and tapped their feet in enjoyment of the first performance of the Catholic music event, Evang–A–Ganza. Three large television screens projected the activities on stage to the thousands of music–lovers enjoying the show, as well as adding multimedia expressions to the experience. Attendees began to dance in place when the MTV/VH1 music video for “Guilty” by 1980s British rock group Classix Nouveaux flashed on the screen. Sal Solo, lead singer for the extremely accomplish band, Classix Noveaux, hosted the show. Having already achieved fame and success, Solo decided to dedicate his art to the inspiration of Christians worldwide. “I had so much fun! I’ve never been to a concert before, but this definitely counts,” said Alice Walker, a sophomore at Melbourne Central Catholic High School (MCC), “They coordinated it to my favorite type of music.” Solo encouraged crowd participation, even requesting the assembly to do a series of ‘sports–game’ waves. A group of MCC students was later invited on stage to freestyle dance, which quickly inspired many to approach the stage. “It’s probably one of the best concerts I’ve been to,” said Will Graneinetti, eighth grade student at St. Joseph Catholic School in Palm Bay, comparing the event to the many country music concerts he has attended such as Tim McGraw and Kenny Chesney. A second performance of Evang–A–Ganza takes place early Saturday morning, and at 2 p.m., there will be another music concert performed by popular Catholic artist, Matt Maher. Posted On: May 10, 2008 Wisdom of Catholic youths05.09.08 
MELANIE L. DODSON | FC Catholic youths at the Festival eagerly anticipated events specially organized for their enjoyment such as the afternoon Evang—A—Ganza concert by British rock artist Sal Solo. “I’m a very musical person,” explained Nick Albert, a senior at Father Lopez Catholic High School. His comrades quickly agreed. The students went on to explain the value of a Catholic education. “I would much rather go to private school than public school,” began senior Adam Posey, “It helps kids to stay out of trouble.” The other students nodded agreement. “And there’s more structure,” added senior O’Shea Boyce. The group nodded again. “There’s also a chance to be more family-like with all your friends,” finished junior Briana Ward. ‘Family-like’ is an excellent description of exactly how the various school groups seemed to act. Posted On: May 9, 2008 Reminders of kinship05.09.08 
MELANIE L. DODSON | FC Upon my arrival Friday at the Festival of Faith in the Orange County Convention Center, I reviewed the program schedule to decide what to attend first. The Festival offers multiple speakers, gatherings, and entertaining activities at the same time to choose between. After making a decision, I noted the room number, and followed the posted signs to that location. I opened the door, and found myself in a dimly lit place set up for an event that had not yet begun. “Oops,” I thought. As I turned to leave, I suddenly became aware of the noise — quiet, heavy, encompassing sounds with whispers of laughter and enjoyment resonating from ongoing events in surrounding rooms. It felt as though I had found a sanctuary reminiscent of a chapel. Although eager to begin my work for the day, I took a moment to enjoy the peaceful blessing to which God had led me. I prayed. I asked God for His continued strength and guidance throughout the day, and then whole-heartedly thanked Him for the opportunity to share a moment together. Posted On: May 9, 2008 A continued thanksgiving05.08.08 
MELANIE L. DODSON | FC The opening service for the festival of Faith focused in part on the crowning of the Blessed Virgin Mary as Queen in accordance with May traditions. Crowns were presented on a royal purple pillow to the Mother of God and her Son, Jesus. “We wanted to represent our country since it’s a multicultural mass,” said Myrna St. Juste of St. Andrew Parish in Orlando, in explanation of the beautiful dresses worn by herself and fellow parishioners. “We knew they were going to crown Mary today, and she is one of our patrons of Haiti,” Ketty Maxon continued, “She did great things.” There was a tone of loving pride in her voice. Collaborating with their group coordinator, Semie Descopain, the ladies explained that Haiti had been threatened by disease before 1804 and through prayers to Mary of Perpetual Help their people were saved. “Mary healed us,” said Maxon, and the people of Haiti devoted the country to her in thanksgiving. The service appropriately took place at the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe. Posted On: May 9, 2008 Delighting in historical foundations05.08.08 
MELANIE L. DODSON | FC It was the beginning of a happy 40th anniversary for the Diocese of Orlando with more than 2,000 people in attendance at the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe for the multicultural Mass that launched the Festival. People filled the pews to capacity, and many who could not find a seat were content to enjoy the celebration on foot. The Mass began at 7pm, and excitement mounted throughout the three hours of devotional service led by Bishop Thomas Wenski. “We love Bishop Wenski! He’s always with the whole community and participates with us,” said Gaelle Santana, a member of St. James Cathedral in Orlando, “I can’t wait until tomorrow!” Santana, like many attendees at the ceremony, dressed in the vibrant clothing customary for her Haitian heritage. Celebrating the traditions of our individual and collective histories is core to Bishop Wenski’s proclamation of “2008 as a Year of Evangelization.” To further the multicultural celebration, speakers at the mass rotated between English, Spanish and Creole languages. Many of the attendants I met spoke English as their second language, and some not at all. Having chosen American Sign Language for my language study in college, I was most pleased to see an ASL interpreter sharing the Word of God throughout the service. My greatest surprise, however, was to encounter members of the Taíno tribe in full regalia representing Native American heritage. Tribal members sounded conch shells as part of the entrance and ending processions – the depth of the shell as a wind instrument was astounding. “I’m Catholic and I thought it was beautiful,” said Thunderhawk, “I felt honored to be a part of the whole affair.” He went on to explain that the Taíno tribe was the first to greet Columbus on that fateful day in 1492. Tribe members in attendance proudly carried an American flag for our country. Posted On: May 9, 2008 
MELANIE L. DODSON | FC Going with God05.08.08 On my way from Melbourne, an accident on Interstate 1-95 late Thursday afternoon forced all northbound travelers to either slowly crawl for many miles or attempt a detour. Although I chose the latter, an extra 30-45 minutes was added to my drive towards the opening celebration for the Festival of Faith. I was stressed and worried until I looked up to the sky upon reentering the Interstate and was pleasantly surprised with a view of the afternoon sun sending beams of light through the clouds. Grabbing my camera, I shot the picture, smiled at the sun, and relaxed with the knowledge that God travels with us at all times. Thankfully, I was only a few minutes late. Posted On: May 9, 2008 Hello, my name is…05.08.08 
I must admit it. Writing is my passion and obsession, as well as my primary career goal. I’ve lived in Melbourne since I was in fourth grade at Our Savior Catholic School and I recently graduated from Florida State University where I majored in Creative Writing. Over the next three days — with my notebook and camera in hand — I will be wandering the nooks and crannies of the Orange County Convention Center to keep you up–to–date on the Diocese of Orlando’s Festival of Faith. Check here often as I will be updating my Web Log multiple times each day. Posted On: May 9, 2008
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