June 3, 2025

06-01-25 CC EDITION

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Editor’s Note: After talking with a number of our subscribers we have cross referenced over a dozen sources to provide a thorough perspective on this issue, so you are well informed when discussing with members of your parish community, family and friends.  

 

National Catholic Register

Charlotte Liturgy Controversy Heats Up After Bishop’s Proposed Ban of Latin, Altar Rails Leaked

Outcry over proposed norms in the North Carolina diocese is rising to international attention, as it represents the first major liturgical dispute during the reign of Pope Leo XIV.

National Catholic Register

Who Is Bishop Michael Martin? 8 Things to Know About the Leader of the Charlotte Diocese

Before shepherding his diocese, Bishop Martin had previously spent a successful dozen years as the Catholic chaplain at North Carolina’s Duke University.

 

Lifesite News TV / Faith and Reason

Leaked Document EXPOSED: Dissecting Charlotte’s War on Reverence!

 

The World Over - May 29, 2025

TLM Controversy in Charlotte

Raymond Arroyo talks with Dr. Peter Kwasniewski on the Latin Mass controversy exploding in the Diocese of Charlotte, NC.

 

Lifesite News TV / Faith and Reason

Fr. Chris Alar RESPONDS to Charlotte's Latin Mass BAN

As the battle for the soul of the Church intensifies, Fr. Chris Alar delivers a powerful warning, condemning the Diocese of Charlotte’s ban on the Latin Mass and contrasting it with Archbishop Cordileone’s bold defense of sacred tradition. With clarity and conviction, Fr. Alar reminds Catholics that mercy without truth isn’t compassion: it’s destruction. Now is the time for courage, fidelity, and the unshakable witness of Christ.

 

The Pillar - Diocese of Charlotte News Analysis

In Charlotte, ‘No big changes for a year?’

What happens after the national spotlight on Bishop Michael Martin?

JD Flynn

May 30, 2025

 

 

The Pillar - Diocese of Charlotte News

At Prevost meeting, Charlotte’s Martin urged to slow down on cathedral project

The bishop ‘was moving very fast with big ideas for changes to the diocese’

May 29, 2025

 

 

The Pillar - Diocese of Charlotte News

Charlotte bishop shelves Mass manifesto, for now

After TLM pushback, liturgical controversy continues in North Carolina

May 28, 2025

 

 

Catholic Herald

Pope Leo XIV’s gentle criticism of contemporary western liturgy is a vital wake-up call

Aleteia

Leo XIV encourages Catholics to go beyond their parishes

 

Aleteia

12 Beautiful images from Pope Leo’s 1st two weeks

 

National Catholic Register

John Paul II’s Birthday, Leo XIV’s Inauguration: A Papal Coincidence|

 
 

Saints of Today

Official portrait of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, bearing his handwritten signature, distinguished with the initials “P.P.”

These initials stand for Pastor Pastorum — Latin for “Shepherd of Shepherds.” This sacred title reflects the Pope’s sacred role as the chief shepherd, tasked with leading the bishops and faithfully guiding Christ’s flock in unity, truth, and love.

 

Aleteia

In-depth: A look at the man who has become Leo XIV

 

Aleteia

Symbolism of the emblem that is on Pope Leo’s coat of arms

 

National Catholic Register

A Prayer for Pope Leo XIV

‘May the Lord preserve him, give him a long life,

make him blessed upon the earth ...’

MORE

 

OSV News

Pope Leo XIV on social media: Instagram and X accounts up and growing

 

CHURCHPOP

Catholics Warn Against Politically Labeling Pope Leo XIV: 'He's God's Guy,' Not a Politician

Is Pope Leo XIV liberal or conservative? Here’s what some Catholics are saying to those who politically label Pope Leo XIV:

 

All Popes of the Catholic Church:

Saint Peter - Pope Francis

A complete list of all the Popes of the Catholic Church from Saint Peter to the current Pope. This video provides a straightforward chronological overview of every pontiff in history, perfect for quick reference or anyone interested in the papal lineage.

 
 

CAROLINA CATHOLIC RADIO IS BACK IN CHARLOTTE!

 

Parish gifts of $2,500 - $5,000+

Individual gifts of $100 - $500+

will help us achieve our goals.

 

parishes - ministries - businesses - families - individuals

The next chapter of our evangelization journey will be led by

young adult Catholics across the Carolinas.  

For more information

CONTACT US TODAY

 

Dear Friends and Patrons,

 

You have been an important part of the Carolina Catholic apostolate since we incorporated in May 2017 and my start as the EWTN Media Missionary Coordinator for the Charlotte Diocese back in 2015.

 

 

The Good Lord has taken me on an amazing journey these past 10 years that only by His Grace is now ready to be handed off to our next generation of young adult Catholics.

 

I had no idea what blind faith was until I became founder of this apostolate.  It has been completely humbling, exhausting, exhilarating and rewarding.

 

We are now in the process of finalizing our proposal with Belmont Abbey College.  In addition, we are pursuing an alliance with Catholic Campus Ministries across the Carolinas.  We are also open to continue discussing how we can include our St. Joseph College Seminarians and Diocesan Catholic School Seniors interested in contributing content as media representatives from their schools.

 

 

I hope you agree that it's an extraordinary opportunity to share the 7 media platforms of Carolina Catholic Media with our young adult Catholics to learn skills that are transferable to future media careers.

 

We plan to have everything in place this summer.  We will be transferring the radio station license to new ownership, creating a new 501c3 and appointing new board of directors.  I will stay on as Chairman Emeritus to facilitate the completion of the new operating structure for the Carolina Catholic Media 2.0 apostolate.

 

To make this handoff to our young adult Catholics successful we need your help as we come to the start of your parish’s new fiscal year.  To that end I invite you to make a one-time gift to help us cover the costs of our transition from Carolina Catholic Media 1.0 to Carolina Catholic Media 2.0. A parish gift of $2,500 - $5,000+ and individual gifts of $100 - $500+ will help us achieve our goals.

 

I look forward to your gift and your prayers for the next chapter of our evangelization journey led by young adult Catholics across the Carolinas.  Thank you for your support.  May God Bless You abundantly!

 

 

I look forward to hearing from you!  

 

In the peace of Christ,

 

David

 

David M. Papandrea, OFS

Founder/Chairman

Carolina Catholic Media Network

Federal Tax ID: 81-5061992

PH/TX: 704.880.0260

 

Volunteer Opportunities

 

MAKE A DIFFERENCE, GET INVOLVED WITH US!

 

Many hands make light work!  We need volunteers who believe in our mission to bring Carolina Catholic Media to every ear in the Charlotte Diocese and Upstate SC! What role are you called to play?

 

 

12 Teams Under Construction

 

    1. Finance/Fundraising/Grant Writing Committee

 

    2. Network/Affiliate Development – Maximize 7 platforms and new outlets for content distribution

 

     3. Catholic Parish Point Persons from Charlotte, Raleigh and Charleston Dioceses

 

     4. Publicity– Share Your Parish News and upcoming events

 

     5. Creative– Video/Website/Social/Print/eblasts

 

     6. Multi-Platform Tech Integration – Sharing programs across Radio and 6 digital platforms

 

     7. Local Talk Program Development – What topic are you passionate about?  Lengths vary.

 

   8. School Forum – Catholic School/Home School education (High School, College Focus)

 

   9. Family Life/Ministry Showcase – From Marriage & Parenting to Vocations & Living the Beatitudes

 

 10. Catholic Teen Formation – Confirmation to College to Career, keeping connected with our Faith

 

 11. Catholic Music Channel – Featuring playlists from Local Kids, Teens, Adults

 

 12. Faith & Sport – Feature Local Catholic School Teams, Athletes / Catholic Athlete of the Week

 

 

Maximizing Technology in Today’s World

TECHNOLOGY TIMELINE

 

By using today’s technology, we commit to reach every soul across the Diocese of Charlotte, NC and Upstate SC.  In addition to Radio, we have expanded our CAROLINA CATHOLIC media platforms to include Video on our website, mobile app, Facebook/Instagram/X social media and YouTube channel.  We provide access to all our platforms through our weekly eNewsletters.                                                                                            

 

Our streaming technology allows us to access every computer and smartphone allowing us to significantly reduce projected capital expenditures.  This overcame the biggest single broadcast objection of “I can’t hear you.”  With 90% population reach by Smartphone the broadcast signal is not an issue. With compelling content the ears and eyes will come.

 

 

Redefining our Mission & Vision 

 

WHERE WE GO FROM HERE…

 

CAROLINA CATHOLIC MEDIA offers a unique opportunity to reach the entire Local Catholic Community both registered Catholics, those in the pews on Sunday AND the vast flock of those who are not.   With 5 million people in the Charlotte Diocese and a Charlotte metro workday population increase of 20% (post pandemic) there is much room to grow with our outreach in the Vineyard of the Carolinas (3 dioceses - 15 million souls - 1.5 million Catholics). 

 

During these tumultuous times where the world feels upside down, may we be guided by GOD’S love, mercy and grace.  May we grow in and be strengthened by our Catholic faith to reinvigorate our hope in and our love for GOD and for one another. May we truly be Instruments of His Peace by our actions and by our words… to feed the hungry, cloth the naked, forgive the guilty, welcome the stranger AND the unwanted child, care for the ill and love our enemies.

 

CAROLINA CATHOLIC MEDIA looks forward to continuing providing you with ONE LOCAL CATHOLIC VOICE that truly reflects the MOSAIC OF MINISTRIES created by you for all our Carolina Catholics.  From the CRIB TO THE CROSS, may we always remember the REASON FOR EVERY SEASON!  PRAISE BE JESUS CHRIST, NOW AND FOREVER!  VIVA CRISTO REY!

 

 

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Catholic Herald

Pope Leo XIV’s first weeks: abuse, finances and fences to mend

Catholic Herald

Pope confronts fresh violence and ‘lifeless bodies of children’ in Ukraine and Gaza

 

CRUX NOW

In first general audience, Pope Leo prays for Gaza, continues Francis catechesis

 

National Catholic Register

Pope Leo XIV Might Visit Ukraine When Conditions Allow, Says Archbishop

‘The Pope is the only one capable of protecting these people,’ Ukraine’s top Catholic leader tells Leo XIV in personal Vatican appeal.

 

National Catholic Register

If Leo XIV Were a New CEO, He’d Be Crushing It, Say Leadership Experts

Qualities of humility, clarity and servant leadership are early signs that Pope Leo is charting a unifying path.

 

National Catholic Register

5 Ways Leo XIV Might Advance Catholic Social Teaching

COMMENTARY: The new Pope seems to want to continue the tradition of developing Catholic social teaching in a way that breaks new ground on important global matters

 

CRUX

Addressing ambassadors, Pope Leo XIV says ‘peace’ is not a ‘negative word’

 

National Catholic Register

Pope Leo XIV Shares Vision for Papacy in Age of Artificial Intelligence

The Pope outlined key priorities for his pontificate in the age of a new industrial revolution, as Leo XIII did before him, while emphasizing continuity with his predecessors and commitment to the Church’s social teaching.

 

Catholic News Agency

Pope Leo XIV’s Augustinian brothers recall his ‘kind’ moments, reflect on new papacy

 

Catholic News Agency

Who are the Augustinians? A look at Pope Leo XIV’s religious order

 
 

National Catholic Register

‘I Wanted So Much to Come Here’: Pope Leo Visits Marian Shrine Outside of Rome

Pope Leo XIV on Saturday visited and prayed at the Shrine of the Mother of Good Counsel in Genazzano, greeting the community there and urging them to ‘be faithful to the Mother.’ Leo on Saturday also visited the Basilica of St. Mary Major, where he prayed in front of the tomb of Pope Francis.

 

The Catholic Herald

Singapore cardinal expresses hopes for liberation of traditional Latin Mass

 

OSV News

European, African bishops demand end to land grabs and exploitation

 

Aleteia

Vatican announces changes to Carlo Acutis canonization

Aleteia

The beautiful bond between Blessed Carlo Acutis and Pope Leo

 

OSV News

Pope asks priests to be signs of reconciliation in the church and world

 
 

Catholic News Agency

‘Martyrs of the New Millenium’ examines plight of persecuted Christians

 

Catholic Vote

Supreme Court deadlocks in Catholic charter school case, upholds lower court’s ruling banning school

 

The Catholic Herald

U.S. cardinals hail winning ways of first American pope

OSV News

First American pope: White Sox fan, Villanova grad, Peru missionary, Vatican leader

 

LIFESITE NEWS

President Trump names Archbishop Cordileone to Religious Liberty Commission advisory board

CATHOLIC VOTE

Trump appoints Catholics to Religious Liberty Commission advisory boards

 
 

Catholic News Herald

2025 priest assignments announced

 

Catholic News Herald

Bishop Martin reflects on his first year leading the diocese

 

Catholic News Herald

New chapel being established for the Traditional Latin Mass

 

*LIFESITE NEWS on the Diocese of Charlotte TLM Announcement

 

 

Catholic News Herald

Seven men to be ordained deacons June 7

 

Catholic News Herald

Three Franciscans launch unique outreach with Charlotte diocese

Bringing Jesus to the streets

 

Catholic News Herald

Belmont Abbey College celebrates largest graduating class in school history

Bishop Martin tells 2025 grads: ‘Our world needs your greater works’

 

Catholic News Herald

Fr. Peter Ascik, Director of the Family Life Office, being interviewed by Divine Mercy Radio as the March for Life rally gets underway in Raleigh Saturday.

 

Catholic News Herald

Eyewitness to history

Charlotte seminarians were there when Pope Leo XIV was announced

VATICAN CITY — Three seminarians from the Diocese of Charlotte – John Harrison, Gabriel Lugo and Ronan Ostendorf – have been studying at the Pontifical North American College in Rome since last fall. Along with other once-in-a-lifetime experiences, they had the opportunity to be at St. Peter’s Square when Pope Leo XIV was announced. Here are their reflections on that historic moment.

 

Catholic News Herald

Bishop Martin 'thrilled' about new Pope Leo XIV

 

Catholic News Herald

Bishop Martin urges Catholics to seize the moment offered by new pope

 

Charlotte Bishop Michael Martin shares the following statement upon the election of the 267th pope to lead the Catholic Church.  

It is with great joy that the people of the Diocese of Charlotte celebrate the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, the first American pope, who is taking the name Pope Leo XIV. We pledge our loyalty to and prayers for the 267th Vicar of Christ. While the world may look for clues to anticipate the new Holy Father’s approach to one topic or another, we look to the Holy Spirit to inspire our new shepherd and to give us all a desire for deep communion which is at the heart of Jesus’ desire for His Church. I invite all Catholics of our Diocese to some small act of charity in the days to come to be in solidarity with Pope Leo XIV, who will need our prayers, support and sacrifices to fulfill the great commission! Ad Multos Annos, Pope Leo XIV.

 

Catholic News Herald

Bishop Martin, others reflect on the life and legacy of Pope Francis

 

Catholic News Herald

Bishop Martin tells priests: Proclaim the Good News to a world in need

 

Catholic News Herald

Hope prevails at Bishop's Youth Pilgrimage

12 April 2025

More than 1,000 attend Bishop Martin’s first youth pilgrimage

 

The Diocese of Charlotte Prison Ministry is made up of parish-based volunteers who visit people incarcerated in prisons, jails and detention centers located in the 46 counties of western North Carolina that encompass the Diocese of Charlotte. They enrich their faith – bringing company, hope, love and the mercy of Jesus Christ. Learn more below about how to volunteer or request a visit for a loved one.

 

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Catholic News Herald

Celebrate the Jubilee Year close to home

 
 

St. Joseph College Seminary

 

SJCS Facebook Page

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SJCS Events Calendar

 
 
 

Catholic News & Events in Raleigh

 

Diocese of Raleigh FACEBOOK Page

 

Confirmation: A Journey of Discovery and Grace

 

Diocese of Raleigh

NC priests’ links to Pope Leo XIV

Above: Father Jairo Maldanado (left), pastor of St. Ann Parish in Edenton,

and Father Fernando Meléndez, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Whiteville.

Father Meléndez photo by Diana Matthews, The News Reporter.

 

Catholic News & Events in South Carolina

Priest Assignments - May 2025

Diocese of Charleston FACEBOOK Page

 
 

The magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Charleston

JUNE 2025

 

Jun 1, 2025

By Bishop Jacques Fabre-Jeune

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ – June 2025

READ MORE

 

Roman Catholic Diocese of Charleston

Bishop Jacques Fabre-Jeune, CS, has outlined a vision for the next five years called Via Fidelis. This journey of faith aims to teach Catholics of South Carolina so that we help spread the Gospel and win hearts for God’s goodness, mercy, love, justice and peace.  Learn more about this exciting journey for our diocese here: charlestondiocese.org/via-fidelis