Bicentennial Time in the East

Some of the nation's most historic cities are getting ready to celebrate history once again - but this time with a Catholic connection.

On April 8, 1808, the first "proto-diocese" of the country - Baltimore - was elevated to an archdiocese and new dioceses were created in Boston, New York, Philadelphia and Bardstown, Ky. (transferred to Louisville in 1841).

Louisville opened its bicentennial year last month with a parish leadership institute. New York and Philadelphia launch their celebrations this year with inaugural Masses on Easter Sunday, and Boston will do the same on the first Sunday of Advent.

"We're going to celebrate in every way we can," announced a very proud Cardinal John Egan at a press conference after morning Mass at the famous St. Patrick Cathedral on New York's Fifth Avenue.

Those various ways will include special Masses and retreats, commemorative books, history films, art and educational exhibits - and special bicentennial editions of the Catholic Extension Calendar in the four feted dioceses.

"We're very proud to be able to participate in this joyous occasion with our parish calendars that will be telling the unique story of each diocese, which will keep this bicentennial in the minds of Catholics all year round," commented Catholic Extension's President Father Jack Wall.

Catholic Extension has published calendars for the nation since 1920, distributing them through parishes with the sponsorship of local businesses.

However, this huge anniversary year has led to a whole new brand of calendar that is customized with the people, events and artwork of each of the bicentennial cities.

"It's something that we've been exploring for some time," says Father Wall, "but now we're hearing from other dioceses that also see the value of a calendar that speaks directly to their local history and institutions. "I see this concept growing in many ways in the future," he adds.

Anniversaries, vocations, Catholic education and local ministries may all serve as the basis for a customized calendar for your diocese. For more information, diocesan officials should contact Parish Services at 800-282-5055, ext. 6060.