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Death is not an ending, but a beginning.

That fundamental tenet of Christianity will also be the subject of a homily March 17, when popular EWTN host Rev. Benedict Groeschel celebrates Mass at St. John the Evangelist parish in Schenectady.

His homily, titled "After This Life" - also the title of his newest book - is a discussion on what happens to an individual after death, based on Scripture and the teachings of the Church.

"I think the title alone will draw people out of curiosity," noted Rev. Richard Carlino, pastor at St. John the Evangelist. "It's definitely something people are interested in."

Father Groeschel, an author, speaker and psychologist in addition to his fame as host of EWTN's "Sunday Night Live" television show, became a Capuchin friar in 1951. In 1974, he founded the Trinity Retreat House in Larchmont, N.Y., where he is still director.

But in 1987, Father Groeschel and seven other Capuchins left their religious order to begin the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, with the mission of reform and service to the poor.

The busy friar, who has written 41 books, joked that his upcoming homily will explore death, the last judgment, heaven and hell - but "I won't focus on hell so much, because I don't think the people coming to my talk are going to hell."

It's been three years since Father Groeschel visited the Albany Diocese. He gives 65 to 70 talks each year. "I haven't preached much in this area and I'm looking forward to coming back - not just for the talk, but to see some old friends," he told The Evangelist.

The event is part of a renewed effort by St. John the Evangelist parish to welcome back parishioners who have fallen away from the Church or the community. A similar talk is planned by apologist, author and publisher Patrick Madrid in May.

"We just hope this talk draws more people out in the future. We told Father Groeschel he could talk on whatever subject he liked, as long as he mentioned the Patrick Madrid talk in May," remarked Father Carlino.

Beth Lynch, museum manager and events coordinator at the Shrine of Our Lady of Martyrs in Auriesville, was a recent guest on Father Groeschel's EWTN show.

Also a freelancer for The Evangelist, she called Father Groeschel "a living saint. He's so enthusiastic about the Catholic faith, our roots, and particularly the roots [of Catholicism] in the Albany Diocese. I wouldn't miss this talk."

The Mass will be celebrated March 17, 7:30 p.m., at St. John the Evangelist parish in Sche-nectady. A free-will offering will be taken for the friars. See www.sje church.com.[[In-content Ad]]

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