Dec. 23, 2022

At a glance

things you need to know this week

CELEBRATE THE BIRTH OF CHRIST

As Advent draws to a close, we welcome the Christ Child, born to save us from our sins. Churches transform their interiors with Christmas trees, poinsettias and Nativity scenes in anticipation of the Solemnity of the Nativity of Our Lord. Find your local parish at www.charlottediocese. org/parishes. Check parish websites for Mass times and mark your calendar to celebrate Jesus’ birthday Dec. 25, the most wonderful time of the liturgical year!

START A NEW HOLIDAY TRADITION

Get snuggled in your pj’s and gather around the Christmas tree to read “The Wise Men Who Found Christmas,” a new children’s book with a heartwarming story for the whole family. Written by best-selling Catholic author and EWTN television host Raymond Arroyo, this holiday tale of three seekers who followed a star and found themselves in the middle of the greatest story ever told promises to be a Christmas classic. Get your copy at www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com

PRAY TO THE SAINTS OF THE CHRISTMAS OCTAVE

The Christmas Octave Dec. 25-Jan. 1 contains eight feast days of saints we can ask for intercession: Dec. 26, St. Stephen; Dec. 27, St. John the Evangelist; Dec. 28, The Holy Innocents; Dec. 29, St. Thomas Becket; Dec. 30, The Holy Family; Dec. 31, St. Sylvester; and Jan. 1, Mary, Mother of God. Learn more at www.thestationofthecross.com/octaveof-christmas/.

ENJOY SOME CATHOLIC CHRISTMAS TUNES

For Catholics, the Christmas season is all about the birth of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. You can find uplifting music to celebrate the Lord’s nativity and take you through the 12 Days of Christmas online on YouTube, Bing, Spotify and the Apple Music Store.

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MAKE SOME FAITH-BASED NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS Renew your faith life with a few New Year’s resolutions you can keep. Consider spending more time in front of the Blessed Sacrament, going to confession regularly, and centering your weekend activities around Sunday Mass. Find more ideas at www.goodcatholic.com/ spiritual-new-years-resolutions-for-catholics.

Diocesan calendar of events

ESPAÑOL

VIÑEDO DE RAQUEL : ¿Es usted o un ser querido que busca la curación de los efectos de un aborto anterior? Los retiros de fin de semana son ofrecidos por Caridades Católicas para hombres y mujeres en todas las regiones de la Diócesis de Charlotte. Para obtener información sobre los próximos retiros, incluidos retiros en las diócesis vecinas, comuníquese con Karina Hernández: 336-267-1937 o karinahernandez@live. com.

VIGILIA DE ADORACIÓN 6 p.m. los jueves, en la Catedral San Patricio, 1621 Dilworth Road East, Charlotte. Nos reunimos para una Vigilia de Adoración por la Paz y la Justicia en Nicaragua, que en estos últimos meses están pasando por momentos turbulentos y ataques físicos contra la Iglesia Católica, sus templos, y sus Obispos. Todos son bienvenidos a unirse a la Adoración, rezar el Santo Rosario, la hora santa de reparación, y terminando con la oración de exorcismo de San Miguel Arcángel.

PRAYER SERVICES

MARCH FOR LIFE: 9 a.m. Friday, Jan. 13. Mass for the unborn at St. Vincent de Paul Church, 6828 Old Reid Road, Charlotte. Gathering at 11 a.m. in the parking lot across the street from the Charlotte Diocese, 1123 South Church St. March will begin at noon to Trade and Tryon streets, where Father Aaron Huber, parochial vicar of St. Mark Parish, will preach. For details, go to www.marchforlifecharlotte.com.

PRO-LIFE ROSARY: After the 9 a.m. Mass every third Sunday at the Mother Teresa Pro-Life Memorial, St. Vincent de Paul Church, 6828 Old Reid Road, Charlotte.

HOLY APOSTLE AND EVANGELIST LUKE MISSION (UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC CHURCH) : Divine Liturgy (Mass) is offered Sundays at 3 p.m. at St. Barnabas Church, 109 Crescent Hill Road, Arden. For details, email ucmcanton@gmail.com.

SAFE ENVIRONMENT TRAINING

PROTECTING CHILDREN: Protecting God’s Children (Protegiendo a los Niños de Dios)

workshops educate parish volunteers to recognize and prevent child sexual abuse. For details, contact your parish office. To register for online training, go to www. virtus.org. Upcoming workshops: GREENSBORO: 9 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 21, St. Paul the Apostle Church, 2715 Horse Pen Creek Road

SUPPORT GROUPS

RETROUVAILLE WEEKEND FOR MARRIED COUPLES Jan. 13-15, for married couples who are looking to reconnect and develop communication and healing. To register, visit www. helpourmarriage.com.

RACHEL’S VINEYARD: Are you or a loved one seeking healing from the effects of a past abortion? Rachel’s Vineyard weekend retreats are offered by Catholic Charities for men and women in the diocese. For details, contact Jessica Grabowski at 910-5852460 or jrgrabowski@rcdoc.org, or Lorena Haynes at 828-585-0483.

Upcoming events for Bishop Peter J. Jugis:

DEC. 25 – MIDNIGHT

Mass for the Feast of The Nativity of the Lord St. Patrick Cathedral, Charlotte

JAN. 1, 2023 – 11 A.M.

Mass for the Feast of the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God St. Patrick Cathedral, Charlotte

JAN. 12, 2023 – 7 P.M.

Closing Mass of the Diocese of Charlotte’s 50th Anniversary St. Patrick Cathedral, Charlotte

— SueAnn Howell

St. John the Apostle: The ‘beloved disciple’

The feast day of St. John the Evangelist, one of the authors of the Gospels, is celebrated Dec. 27. Also known as St. John the Divine, the son of Zebedee and brother of St. James the Great was called to be an Apostle by our Lord in the first year of His public ministry.

He became the “beloved disciple” and the only one of the Twelve who did not forsake the Savior in the hour of His Passion. He stood faithfully at the cross when Christ made him the guardian of His Mother.

His later life was passed chiefly in Jerusalem and at Ephesus.

St. John founded many churches in Asia Minor and wrote many important works, including the fourth Gospel and three Epistles (although many scholars believe that the final editing of the Gospel

Daily Scripture readings

DEC. 25-31

Sunday (The Nativity of the LordChristmas): Isaiah 62:11-12, Titus 3:4-7, Luke 2:15-30; Monday (St. Stephen): Acts 6:8-10, 7:54-59, Matthew 10:17-22; Tuesday (St. John): 1 John 1:1-4, John 20:1a, 2-8; Wednesday (The Holy Innocents): 1 John 1:5-2:2, Matthew 2:13-18; Thursday (St. Thomas Becket): 1 John 2:3-11, Luke 2:22-35; Friday (The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph): Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14, Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23; Saturday (St. Sylvester I): 1 John 2:18-21, John 1:1-18

was done by others shortly after his death). The Book of Revelation is also attributed to him.

Tradition relates that St. John was brought to Rome and cast into a cauldron of boiling oil on the orders of Emperor Domitian, but he came forth unhurt. He then was banished to the Greek island of Patmos for a year.

He lived to an extreme old age, surviving all his fellow apostles, and died in Ephesus about the year 100.

St. John is called the Apostle of Charity, a virtue he had learned from his Divine Master and which he constantly inculcated by word and example.

A stately church was later erected over his tomb in Ephesus. It was afterwards converted into a mosque.

— Catholic News Agency

JAN. 1-7

Sunday (Mary, the Holy Mother of God): Numbers 6:22-27, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:16-26; Monday (Sts. Basil the Great): 1 John 2:22-28, John 1:19-28; Tuesday (The Most Holy Name of Jesus): 1 John 2:29-3:6, John 1:29-34; Wednesday (St. Elizabeth Ann Seton): 1 John 3:7-10, John 1:35-42; Thursday (St. John Neumann): 1 John 3:11-21, John 1:43-51; Friday (St. André Bessette): 1 John 5:5-13, Mark 1:7-11; Saturday (St. Raymond of Penyafort): 1 John 5:14-21, John 2:1-11

JAN 8-14

Sunday (The Epiphany of the Lord): Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6, Matthew 2:1-12; Monday (The Baptism of the Lord): Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7, Matthew 3:13-17; Tuesday: Hebrews 2:5-12, Mark 1:21-28; Wednesday: Hebrews 2:14-18, Mark 1:29-39; Thursday: Hebrews 3:7-14, Mark 1:40-45; Friday (St. Hilary): Hebrews 4:1-5, 11, Mark 2:1-12; Saturday: Hebrews 4:12-16, Mark 2:13-17

The devil is sneaky, so Christians must be watchful

Vigilance is an essential part of the spiritual life because the devil will try to sneak in when one is not paying attention or, especially, when a Christian thinks he or she is making a lot of progress on the road to holiness, Pope Francis said.

“When we trust too much in ourselves and not in God’s grace, then the Evil One finds the door open. So, he organizes an expedition and takes possession of that house,” which is a person’s spiritual life, the pope said on Dec. 14 at his weekly general audience.

Since late August, the pope has been using his general audience talks to explain the process of spiritual discernment according to the teaching of St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits.

“If vigilance is lacking,” the pope said, there is “a very high risk that all will be lost. It is a danger not of a psychological, but of a spiritual order, a real snare of the evil spirit.”

Part of discernment is being watchful to safeguard one’s heart and soul, he said. Vigilance “is the frame of mind of Christians who await the final coming of the Lord; but it also can be understood as the normal attitude to have in the conduct of life, so that our good choices, taken at times after challenging discernment, may proceed in a persevering and consistent manner and bear fruit.”

The pope noted how Advent reminds Christians of the importance of watchfulness or vigilance.

“We await the coming of the Lord, and we remain attentive to our more fragile brothers and sisters who knock at the door of our hearts,” the pope said.

“This is how we build our lives with discernment and consistent with the Gospel.”

“Let us ask the Lord to keep us vigilant in humility and in availability” to those in need, he said.

When one does something good, the pope said, there often is a temptation of pride, “the presumption of being righteous, of being good, of having everything in place. Often, we will hear someone say, ‘Yes, I was bad before, but I converted and now my house is in order, thanks be to God,’ and they relax.” At moments like that, the pope said, the devil will not overpower a person, but will be very “polite” and ask to come in, then he will make himself at home.

“Watch over your heart because vigilance is a sign of wisdom, it is above all a sign of humility” and of knowing that without God’s help, one can fail, the pope said. “Humility is the high road of the Christian life.”

Pope Francis

“St. John the Evangelist” by Vladimir Borovikovsky (1757-1825)

‘In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.’

The beginning of the Gospel of John

Our diocese

‘A true

mentor,

true pastor and true priest’

Remembering Father Thomas, trailblazing African American priest of western North Carolina

CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

ASHEVILLE — Faithful across western North Carolina were saddened to hear of the Dec. 6 passing of Father Wilbur Thomas – the Diocese of Charlotte’s first African American priest, whose passion for serving God and His people spanned five decades of ministry. He died surrounded by family and friends at CarePartners Hospice Solace Center in Asheville. He was 75.

The funeral Mass was celebrated Dec. 14, 2022, at St. Lawrence Basilica in Asheville, with Monsignor Michael Becker as principal celebrant. The rite of committal and inurnment took place Dec. 16, 2022, at St. Eugene Church in Asheville.

The servant heart of Father Thomas was inextricably bound with the People of God in western North Carolina. Cherished for his quiet wisdom, unwavering support, deep spirituality and angelic voice, Father Thomas’ friends flooded social media with messages of love and remembrance. They were also quick to reminisce about their dear friend.

“My greatest memory of Father Thomas was on a trip to the Holy Land more than 30 years ago when we had Mass one early evening. If I remember correctly, it was getting dark. Mass was outdoors in Shepherds’ Field, and he sung the whole Mass. It’s never to be forgotten,” said Mercy Sister Susie Dandison. “He had a beautiful voice. During that trip, at one point, we also ended up on a stage dancing to a very famous piece of Israeli music. It was very lively, very well known. A bunch of us got on the stage. He was a beautiful person and a holy priest!”

CALLED TO THE FAITH AND TO THE PRIESTHOOD Wilbur Neely Thomas was born April 17, 1947, in Charlotte and adopted as an infant by Wilbur O. and Ruth N. Thomas of Lexington.

The Thomases were Methodist, but after a stroke left his father bedridden when Wilbur was 10, the example of the local priest who came to visit inspired his parents to convert to Catholicism.

When he was 12, Wilbur too decided to become Catholic.

In 1960, Wilbur was baptized and confirmed at his local parish, Our Lady of the Rosary in

Father Thomas’ assignment history in the Diocese of Charlotte:

n 1974-1975: Coordinator of Diocesan Campus Ministry in Winston-Salem

n 1973-1975: Assistant pastor at St. Leo the Great Parish in Winston-Salem

n 1975-1977: Assistant pastor of St. Patrick Cathedral in Charlotte n 1976-1979: Director of Diocesan Youth Ministry n 1977-1979: Pastor of Our Lady of the Annunciation Parish in Albemarle

n 1979-1986: Pastor of Our Lady of Consolation Parish in Charlotte n 1987-1998: Pastor of St. Aloysius Parish in Hickory n 1998-2002: Diocesan Vicar of Priests

n 1999: Parochial administrator of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Jefferson n 2000-2018: Rector/pastor of St. Lawrence Basilica in Asheville

Lexington, by Bishop Vincent S. Waters of the Diocese of Raleigh. His relationship with the Lord continued to deepen as he served at Mass and learned as much as he could about his newfound Catholic faith.

As a teenager, he felt the call to become a priest while praying before the Blessed Sacrament at his Catholic high school, Bishop McGuinness. At first his parents disapproved of their only son becoming a priest. They wanted grandchildren. However, by the time he was a senior in high school they agreed. Not long after he turned 18, he was accepted into the seminary program for the Diocese of Raleigh and began his studies at the Pontifical College Josephinum in Columbus, Ohio.

Father Thomas was ordained to the priesthood on March 26, 1973 – the Feast of the Annunciation – by Bishop Waters at Our Lady of the Annunciation Catholic Church in Havelock, N.C. At the time, he was among the first African American Catholic priests ordained in North Carolina, and shortly after his ordination, he transferred to the newly formed Diocese of Charlotte as its first black Catholic priest.

Throughout his life Father Thomas remained devoted to serving the Lord and His people, and his tireless work as a priest encompassed parish ministry, ministry to young people and college students, ecumenical outreach and dialogue, and leadership that inspired laypeople across the diocese to become more involved in the life of the Church.

A PIONEER OF MANY DIOCESAN MINISTRIES

In many ways Father Thomas was a trailblazer – laying the foundations for many of the ministries and programs in which tens of thousands of Catholics in western North Carolina now participate.

Among his first achievements was building a ministry for young people. He was appointed the Charlotte diocese’s first Catholic Campus Minister, serving at Wake Forest University. He also helped develop the diocese’s Campus Ministry Program, Youth Ministry Program and Diocesan Youth Council, as well as serving as the first Youth Ministry director from 1976 to 1979.

Reminiscences from people impacted by Father Thomas’ ministry

“Father Wilbur was a good man, gentle leader, and a listener with a heart of compassion. He was a pastor and shepherd to all. He believed that the people of God are Church. He recognized and encouraged lay leaders to be and to act as the Church. As pastor, he proclaimed the Good News of hope and love in a broken world.”

— Sister Peggy Verstege, Sister of Mercy

“About two weeks before his passing, Father Wil and I talked about when he was a young priest stationed with Father William Wellein at St. Leo the Great (Parish) in Winston-Salem. Father Wellein had found out that The Platters musical group was going be in Hickory, and he arranged to take Father Wil to Hickory to that nightclub to hear The Platters. He had arranged to let the group know that this young priest had a beautiful voice and was going to be in the audience, and they called him on stage and Father Wil sang with The Platters, including a couple of songs by himself.”

— Father Morris Boyd

“When my dad was dying at Mercy Hospital, Father Thomas used to come visit. Daddy was not Catholic, but a devout Methodist. He loved it when Father Thomas came to visit. All religious barriers were crossed, and he brought much peace to my dad in his last days.”

— Sister Martha Hoyle, Sister of Mercy

“Father Wilbur Thomas was a great and giving priest. He lived his priesthood so well in many different assignments, no matter what was asked of him. He served the people as a priest in all areas of the diocese and the various needs where he could help. Even in the past two years he gave witness to the good Lord in accepting the cancer. He was a good example for the priests in the diocese.”

— Father Edward Sheridan

PASTOR, SEE PAGE 19

FILE | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Father Wilbur Thomas poses for a portrait at St. Lawrence Basilica in Asheville, where he served as pastor for 18 years before retiring in 2018.

Diocese of Charlotte receives 40th gift of $1 million or more

SPENCER K.M. BROWN skmbrown@charlottediocese.org

CHARLOTTE — The Diocese of Charlotte has reached a new milestone: its 40th gift of $1 million or more.

The gift comes from former Greensboro mayor and long-time parishioner of St. Pius X Church Vic Nussbaum Jr., who left an endowment of $1.5 million for tuition assistance at the diocese’s St. Pius X and Our Lady of Grace Catholic schools.

“There is no greater gift than a Catholic education, which teaches incomparable values and unparalleled virtues,” said Chris Kloesz, principal of St. Pius X School. “The endowment provides scholarships for numerous children to benefit from the renowned academic programs and student opportunities. The Nussbaum Endowment is truly a blessing for our school and the families who receive the funding.”

Donors across the diocese have given one-time gifts of cash or stock, pledged to capital campaigns or projects, or left gifts in their estate plans. Such gifts benefit parishes, Catholic schools, the diocese’s foundation and St. Joseph College Seminary.

The late Nussbaum, a self-proclaimed “Catholic Yankee in Dixie” who became one of Greensboro’s biggest boosters and

its mayor for three terms, from 1987 to 1993, was focused on expanding libraries, providing low-income housing and improving the quality of public education.

“So many generous parishioners and so many gifts have changed the lives of both the donors and the recipients of the gifts,” said Jim Kelley, diocesan development director.

“We receive gifts of all amounts – and we’re grateful for them all,” he said.

“There have been some individuals with significant resources who have had so much confidence in the Church’s leadership and commitment to their faith that they have given a million dollars or more.

“I invite more people to be a part of our mission in this kind of significant way to help build up the Church across western North Carolina,” he said.

Fund an endowment

Interested in setting up – or adding to – an endowment to benefit your parish or Catholic school? You can establish an endowment in the Diocese of Charlotte Foundation by leaving a bequest in a will, a beneficiary designation from a retirement plan, a trust or annuity, or a gift of real estate, life insurance, cash or securities.

For details, contact Gina Rhodes at 704-3703364 or gmrhodes@rcdoc.org.

Schools and parishes across the diocese share in the joy of Christmas and the coming of Our Savior

(Right and below) St. Mark Parish put on a live Nativity Dec. 15, featuring children Charlotte Jones as the Virgin Mary, James Arvesu as Joseph, Elise Johnston as the Angel and Jack Thompson as the donkey.

(Below, middle) Students at St. Leo School in WinstonSalem created gingerbread houses.

(Bottom left) Students at St. Pius X School in Greensboro perform at their Christmas program.

PHOTOS BY AMY BURGER AND PROVIDED

(From left) Families at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in High Point enjoyed a pancake breakfast, made keepsake crafts and shopped for gifts in a secret shop.

Students at St. Gabriel School in Charlotte celebrated the feast of St. Nicholas. Faith formation students in pre-kindergarten through second grade at St. James the Greater Church in Concord made mangers and baby Jesus out of popsicle sticks on Dec. 7.

(Right and below)

St. Joseph College Seminary put on its Nativity play and musical concert Dec. 15.

PHOTOS PROVIDED

PHOTO BY MARYANNE LUEDTKE

St. Pius X Parish in Greensboro held a Little Town of Bethlehem and live Nativity dramatization Dec. 2.

The Angel Tree at St. Peter Church collected more than 250 gifts for children and adults.

PHOTOS PROVIDED

PHOTO BY JAMES SARKIS

A Sacred Music Concert for Advent and Christmas was performed at St. Patrick Cathedral in Charlotte on Dec. 3. Watch a

concert:

Celebrations for Our Lady of Guadalupe span two days

CESAR HURTADO rchurtado@charlottediocese.org

CHARLOTTE — Thousands of parishioners demonstrated their faith and love for the Virgin of Guadalupe at dozens of celebrations held in churches across the diocese.

Festivities began in some cases on Sunday, Dec. 11, the eve of the feast day, with people staying up past midnight to sing “Las Mañanitas” to the “Virgen Morena.”

Some parishes remembered the Virgin of Guadalupe early Monday morning, while others scheduled their Masses and events in the afternoon and evening.

In Asheville, the Hispanic community came together for a vicariate-wide celebration Dec. 11 at the WNC Agricultural Center in Fletcher. A procession, Mass officiated by Father Nohe Torres and several cultural events and performances culminated at 8 p.m.

In Charlotte, Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish began its patronal feast day celebrations after sunset on Sunday. Dances, recitation of the rosary, songs, a dramatic play

about Mary’s apparitions to the native man St. Juan Diego, a procession, mariachi and Masses at various times took place over the course of more than 24 consecutive hours.

The central Mass, concelebrated by Father Leo Tiburcio, pastor; Father Hugo Medellín, parochial vicar; and Father Miguel Sánchez, parochial vicar of St. Matthew Parish in Charlotte, was offered at 9 p.m.

At the beginning of the Mass, Father Medellín prayed that through the intercession of Mary, Catholics may deepen their faith and achieve the progress of peoples along the paths of justice and peace.

During his homily, Father Medellín reflected on Mary’s “fiat” or “yes” to God’s invitation to bear the Son of Man. After asking some questions to the angel at the Annunciation, Mary answered, “I am the handmaid of the Lord, let what you have said be fulfilled in me.”

“This ‘yes’ of Mary has much to do with us – with the way of our faith. Here in this community (and) in the universal Church, many people change their lives, turn to God, and give themselves to the mission of the Church,” he said.

Then, looking out at all the attendees at Mass, he

commented that many people come back to church for this feast, but not regularly to church. “I want to ask them a question: What do you need to do to change your lives? And most importantly, what can we do to help you?”

Due to the large attendance expected, the organizers set up three large tents with TVs so more people could follow the celebrations. There was also an altar to the Virgin in the courtyard of the entrance to the church.

At the end of Mass, Father Tiburcio thanked attendees for their understanding in the face of difficulties. “Our church is very small, we have had to set up big tents. Everything is full and many brothers are outside, cold, but they are still present to celebrate the Virgin of Guadalupe,” he said.

Mexico City native Antonieta Rueda, who attended accompanied by her two youngest children, was one of many people who left flowers before the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe during the celebrations. “I have come to thank Our Lady for all the good and all the not so good things of this year,” Rueda said. “And I want to ask you to grant me health to continue working for them,” she added, referring to her children in her arms.

Members of St. Mary’s Parish in Greensboro attend Mass on the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

On the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, celebrations across the diocese pictured above feature parishioners from Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Charlotte, Holy Angels Church in Mount Airy, Holy Family Church in Clemmons,

Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Monroe, St. John Neumann Church in Charlotte, St. Philip the Apostle Parish in Statesville and St. Eugene Church in Asheville.

Berlioz’s ‘The Childhood of Christ’ is a dramatic Nativity musical piece

CHRISTINA L. REITZ Special to the Catholic News Herald

One of the most important aspects of the Christmas season is the music we hear, and over the centuries, many composers have contributed significantly to the genre. One of the more unique works is the sacred trilogy “L’enfance du Christ” (“The Childhood of Christ”) by French composer Hector Berlioz.

To make ends meet, Berlioz frequently resorted to writing music criticism in the typical French style: full of wit, humor and just enough sarcasm to be endearing. The same writing style is found in his memoirs. In the first chapter, in a translation by David Cairns, the composer touches upon his childhood in the faith:

“Needless to say, I was brought up in the Catholic and Apostolic Church of Rome. This charming religion (so attractive since it gave up burning people) was for seven whole years the joy of my life, and although we have long since fallen out I have always kept the most tender memories of it.”

Although lesser known among this composer’s body of work, “The Childhood of Christ” is a fine choice to commemorate the entire Christmas season. Although never referred to as an oratorio by the composer, it is considered as such by contemporary listeners.

(Readers may be familiar with oratorios such as the famous “Messiah” by G.F. Handel, the first part of which is also appropriate for the Christmas season).

Berlioz started composing the work in 1850 and finished it four years later. It is scored for vocal soloists, choir and orchestra and is separated into three parts: “Herod’s Dream,” “The Flight Into Egypt” and “The Arrival at Sais.” The events in Part One do not follow Scripture chronologically. For example, Scene IV depicts Herod decreeing the deaths of the innocents prior to the scene entitled “The Manger at Bethlehem.” The latter is a duet between our Blessed Mother and St. Joseph, and since the Gospels recorded no words at the birth, a bit of creative license was used that proved remarkably effective.

Berlioz, a master orchestrator, begins “The Manger at Bethlehem” with

woodwinds, including the English horn (an alto oboe) that provides an outdoor/ shepherd ambience. Specific keys have long been associated with moods or emotions, and in the early 19th century, the key of A-flat major was associated with death and the grave. A composer often purposely chooses a key because of these historical associations and at first glance, one might find A-flat major to be an odd tonality for depicting the Nativity. However, as Venerable Fulton Sheen explained in his “Life of Christ,” Jesus was the only person born to die, which makes the choice of key for Christ’s birth profoundly appropriate. (A similar connection is frequently made with the Magi’s gift of myrrh.)

In the Kalmus edition of “Berlioz’s Complete Works,” the translation of Mary’s lullaby reads: “Sweet, holy babe, these sweet herbs so tender give the sheep thou lovest … see they come to Thee bleating! They are so meek. Let them graze on the meadow, lest they shall suffer hunger.”

One can clearly see the powerful references to Christ’s future role as the Good Shepherd in the choice of text here. She is subsequently joined by St. Joseph before the scene ends with an unassuming, instrumental conclusion.

Berlioz is frequently heralded for his great dramatic prowess, but this section of the “L’enfance du Christ” demonstrates his sensitivity and is a perfect representation of the peaceful Nativity of Our Lord.

Listen online

At www.catholicnewsherald.com : Listen to a rendition of Hector Berlioz’s “L’enfance du Christ”

St.

‘Garden of Eat’n’ fuels fans, fellowship and philanthropy

SUEANN HOWELL sahowell@charlottediocese.org

CHARLOTTE — Soon after the Carolina Panthers took the field in Charlotte, parishioners and volunteers at the diocese’s oldest Catholic church – St. Peter – launched the “Garden of Eat’n” ministry, serving up grilled hot dogs with a smile just blocks from the stadium to raise money for charity.

As thousands of fans know, the Garden of Eat’n may well be the best tailgate deal in town: Two hot dogs, chips, drink and a cookie for a suggested donation of $7. Lunch is served before the Panthers’ 1 p.m. Sunday games on Panther blue-clothed tables in front of the historic church on South Tryon Street.

In its 26 years, the Garden of Eat’n ministry has netted over $150,000, with funds going toward good causes such as Roof Above, a Charlotte nonprofit that assists people experiencing homelessness. Additional charities such as Loaves & Fishes, uptown Charlotte shelters, McCreesh Place, and Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte also benefit.

“The Garden of Eat’n has been a great blessing to St. Peter in bringing the parish together as well as raising funds to support those in need in the center city,” says Jesuit Father Tim Stephens, pastor.

The ministry’s leader, Scott Darling, began volunteering 12 years ago when his son looked to fulfill community service hours. He manages more than 20 volunteers at each tailgate, including many of the parish youth. “It’s great to see their energy, and hopefully this gives them a better understanding of the Church and what Father Stephens and others are trying to accomplish,” Darling says.

Parishioners Joan and Bruce Shearer have volunteered for more than eight years.

“Originally we started because it looked like a fun way to participate in an activity that both enabled us to meet more members of St. Peter’s and generate monies that would help the Charlotte community in

diverse ways,” Joan Shearer explains.

It has evolved into much more, she says. “We’re a family, and even the first-time volunteers fit into that family seamlessly.”

The Shearers enjoy interacting with the hungry fans who come by year after year.

“It brings both home team and opposing team fans to the table, all in good humor,” Bruce Shearer says. “The generosity is humbling. There are more than a few times when a $20 bill has been left for a suggested $5 donation.”

Funds raised at the Garden of Eat’n also support the parish’s “Room in the Inn” ministry, which, in collaboration with Roof Above, welcomes people experiencing homelessness to stay overnight each Tuesday evening, December through March. Volunteers provide meals for eight men, and the parish’s Biss Hall provides a warm place to sleep.

“We have used some of these funds each year for items such as air mattresses, pumps, racks for storage, bedding items, toiletry kits and more,” says Glen McLaughlin, Room in the Inn ministry co-chair.

“Funding from St. Peter’s, combined with many volunteers, has impacted the lives of many,” says Lauren Cranford, with Roof Above. “Garden of Eat’n has generated funds needed for our services and has been very impactful in creating community awareness around the issue of homelessness and how Roof Above is working to help men and women find their way home.”

Joan Shearer says the outreach is fulfilling.

“Knowing that the few hours that we give up on a Sunday enables us at St. Peter’s to contribute to genuine needs in the community is priceless. It truly embodies working together as a village to help the marginalized.”

Learn more

For more information about St. Peter Parish’s Garden of Eat’n ministry, go online to www. stpeterscatholic.org/garden-of-eaten

Peter parishioners have been grilling up hot dogs for the Garden of Eat’n tailgate before Carolina Panthers home games over the past 26 years, raising more than $150,000 for local charities.

PHOTO PROVIDED

A colorized portrait of Hector Berlioz (1803-1869) from Les Musiciens Celebres, Lucien Mazenod, Paris.

SEMINARIAN SPOTLIGHT: Peter Townsend

From: Charlotte Age: 22

Home parish: St. Ann Church, Charlotte

Status: Started Mount St. Mary’s Seminary, Cincinnati, in August 2022

Favorite Bible verses: “How can I repay the Lord for all the great good done for me?

I will raise the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord. I will pay my vows to the Lord in the presence of all His people.” (Ps 116: 12-14)

Favorite saint: St. Peter, chosen by Jesus to lead the Church. “He is my patron, and I love seeing his journey through the Gospels as he goes from being a sinner to a saint.”

Interests (outside of faith): Playing guitar and reading a good book

CHARLOTTE — Peter Townsend was just 5 years old when he announced he wanted to become a priest.

Townsend had just attended the Diocese of Charlotte’s Eucharistic Congress and met Bishop Peter Jugis. The spark that lit his vocation was this annual celebration – a Catholic “family reunion” that draws thousands of parishioners from across North Carolina to celebrate the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist.

“I told my parents at the dinner table soon after the Congress that I wanted to be the pope, which they found amusing,” he remembers. “I guess that’s who I thought Bishop Jugis was. After that, for whatever reason, the thought of becoming a priest never left me, and neither has the desire to do so.”

Townsend admits that since entering the seminary, “I have done away with my former ambitions (of the papacy) and would be happy to be a simple parish priest.”

He recently talked about his journey with the Catholic News Herald:

CNH: Can you tell us about your life before you entered the seminary?

Townsend: I grew up in Charlotte in a very close-knit, Catholic family. I was homeschooled. My parents wanted to give me a solid Catholic education, to preserve me from a lot of the things that many of my peers experienced at too early of an age, and to allow me to grow up at my own pace.

CNH: How did your parents react when you told them you wanted to study for the priesthood?

Townsend: They had always told my

siblings and me that we should strive to do God’s will. And so, they said that if I thought God was calling me to the priesthood, then they would do everything they could to support me in my discernment.

CNH: What types of things have you been doing since you entered the seminary?

Townsend: I began to pray the Liturgy of the Hours every day and started praying the rosary much more often. Both of these prayers are essential to the priesthood and are crucial for priestly discernment in the seminary. However, in my opinion, one of the most important decisions I ever made was to commit myself to at least one Holy Hour a day before the Blessed Sacrament. This one-on-one time with the Lord has influenced my discernment in more ways than I could have imagined.

CNH: What advice do you have for a young man thinking about becoming a priest?

Townsend: The Lord said, “Ask, and it will be given you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you” (Mt 7:7). I would say the same to any man discerning the priesthood. All one has to do is simply ask God and wait for His response. The hard part is when God seemingly doesn’t want to respond, or at least seems very slow in doing so. However, if this seems to happen, it is only because the Lord is waiting for the right time to reveal His answer. He knows exactly when to answer, and whether or not the person asking is ready to hear it.

CNH: What do you like about being a seminarian for the Diocese of Charlotte?

Townsend: I love the fraternity that is reinforced in our diocese through the seminary program. Over the course of the past four years, I have gotten to know the other men studying, discerning and praying beside me, and I would not trade their brotherhood for anything.

— SueAnn Howell

March for Life 2023

Roe v. Wade is gone, but our work is not yet done. Be a witness for unborn babies and their mothers at local, state or national March for Life this January. See below for details on diocesan bus trips to the Raleigh March for Life and the National March in Washington, D.C.

MARCH FOR LIFE CHARLOTTE

Friday, January 13

9 a.m. Mass, St. Vincent de Paul Church 6828 Old Reid Road, Charlotte, N.C. 28210

11 a.m. Gather & Rally, Pastoral Center 1123 S. Church Street, Charlotte NC 28203

12 noon March for Life (From Pastoral Center to Independence Square, corner of Trade & Tryon Streets)

Details at www.marchforlifecharlotte.org.

NORTH CAROLINA RIGHT TO LIFE MARCH (Raleigh)

Saturday, January 14

11 a.m. Mass, Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral 715 Nazareth Street, Raleigh, N.C. 27606

12:30 Gather & Rally, Halifax Mall 2:30 p.m. March for Life Details at www.ncrtl.org/events.

*Office of Family Life Charter Bus Trip – Raleigh Departure/Return: Pastoral Center 1123 S. Church St., Charlotte (Jan. 14 - 7:00 a.m. departure/8:00 p.m. return same day)

Your DSA contributions at work

The Seminarian Education program is funded in part by the annual Diocesan Support Appeal. Learn more about the DSA and how to donate online at www.charlottediocese.org/dsa

Mary’s Sons kneelers make pilgrimage around diocese

CHARLOTTE — Come pray for three men expected to be ordained priests for the Diocese of Charlotte next June using special kneelers now making their way to parishes across western North Carolina. The special kneelers, or prie-dieus, are commissioned each year for the ordinands by the Mary’s Sons apostolate. Journals also accompany the kneelers so people can convey their well-wishes to the future priests, Deacons Christopher Brock, Chinonso Nnebe-Agumadu and Peter Rusciolelli will receive the kneelers at their ordination June 17, 2023, at St. Mark Church in Huntersville. Learn more about Mary’s Sons at www.maryssons.org

Parishes hosting the kneelers in December and January include:

n Dec. 19-26: Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Monroe n Dec. 26-Jan. 2: St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Charlotte n Jan. 2-9: Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in High Point

n Jan. 9-16: Our Lady of the Annunciation Church in Albemarle (1) and St. James Church in Concord (2) n Jan. 16-23: Christ the King Church in High Point — SueAnn Howell

Meals on your own. Cost: $20/person Register here: www.charlottediocese.org/ ofl-bus-trip-to-raleighregistration-form/

NATIONAL MARCH FOR LIFE (Washington,

Friday, January 20

D.C.)

11:30 a.m. N.C. Mass for Life, Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception 400 Michigan Ave. NE, Washington, D.C. 20017

1 p.m. March for Life, National Mall Details at www.marchforlife.org.

*Office of Family Life Charter Bus Pilgrimage –Washington, D.C., January 19-21 Lodging: Hilton Garden Inn, Bethesda, Md. 7301 Waverly St, Bethesda, MD 20814

Cost: $200/person (2 ppl./room); $300/person (1 ppl./room); $50/person (college student)

Use QR code to register. Includes visit to John Paul II shrine.

Questions? Contact Jessica Grabowski, diocesan respect life program director, at 704-370-3229 or email respectlife@rcdoc.org.

Office of Family Life

Diocese of C harlotte

Townsend

Marian Pilgrimage

A specially commissioned statue of Mary, Mother of God is visiting more than 100 locations across the Diocese of Charlotte during the anniversary year. Upcoming visits include:

ST. PATRICK CATHEDRAL

Now until Tuesday, Jan. 3 1621 Dilworth Road East, Charlotte, N.C. 28203

ST. JOSEPH COLLEGE SEMINARY

Saturday-Thursday, Jan. 7-12 22 Arctus Ave., Mount Holly, N.C. 28120

ST. PATRICK CATHEDRAL

Thursday, Jan. 12 1621 Dilworth Road East, Charlotte, N.C. 28203

The pilgrim statue of Mary, Mother of God will be present for the closing celebration of the Diocese of Charlotte’s 50th anniversary year. The celebration will include a Holy Hour of Eucharistic Adoration from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., followed by Mass at 7 p.m., offered by Bishop Peter Jugis.

The celebration will be held in St. Patrick’s temporary Chapel of Two Hearts (inside the Family Life Center adjacent to the cathedral), as the cathedral is undergoing renovations. Parking and seating are extremely limited, so people are encouraged to arrive early.

For more information, go to the Diocese of Charlotte’s 50th anniversary website, www.faithmorepreciousthangold.com

Bishop Jugis to celebrate closing Mass of 50th anniversary year

CHARLOTTE — Bishop Peter Jugis will celebrate the closing Mass of the Diocese of Charlotte’s 50th anniversary at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, at St. Patrick Cathedral. Because of ongoing renovations at the cathedral, the Holy Hour from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. and the closing Mass will be celebrated in the parish’s Family Life Center adjacent to the cathedral. It has a very limited seating capacity, so people are encouraged to arrive early.

During the diocese’s 50th anniversary year, a Marian Pilgrimage of the image of Mary, Mother of God has traveled across western North Carolina to parishes, Catholic schools, convents and St. Joseph College Seminary, offering the faithful an opportunity to pray the 50th anniversary prayer and ask Our Blessed Mother for her intercession.

Over the past year, parishioners and clergy have also marked the 50th

anniversary by performing dozens of Acts of Charity benefiting community partners who assist the poor, those experiencing homelessness, women and children, and neighbors experiencing food insecurity –just to name a few.

St. Patrick Cathedral is located at 1621 Dilworth Road East in Charlotte. The Family Life Center is located behind the rectory.

— SueAnn Howell

ACTS OF CHARITY CONTINUE ACROSS THE DIOCESE

St. Pius X seniors, students benefit from a tradition of service

GREENSBORO — The beauty of the Acts of Charity the Diocese of Charlotte is honoring in its 50th anniversary year is that they do not have to only happen once. Many of these Acts of Charity can be repeated to increase the number of individuals who benefit. Done often enough, an Act of Charity can even become a tradition – enhancing the positive impact it creates in the community for years.

One noteworthy example of the positive impact of repeating an Act of Charity is the Senior Luncheon hosted by St. Pius X Parish in Greensboro. The Senior Luncheon has been a long-standing tradition at the parish and is held monthly in the Simmons Family Parish Center.

Typically, 75-95 senior citizens from the parish attend every month, and it has become an important event on the attendees’ social calendars. Many seniors who have lost spouses or live alone can become very isolated, which can be detrimental to their health. The monthly luncheon is a lovely opportunity to attend Mass and share a meal with their fellow senior parishioners, and it gives them something to look forward to each month.

A few years ago, the luncheon started to include the addition of student helpers from St. Pius X School. Each month eight to 10 eighth-grade students volunteer to plate the meals and serve them to the seniors at their tables rather than the seniors having to stand in a buffet line. This creates a restaurant feel for the luncheon and elevates the attendees’ experience.

The student volunteers benefit from this stewardship opportunity, and their participation in this Act of Charity also builds a stronger connection between the parish, its parishioners and the school.

“Our students love the opportunity to serve our parish’s seniors,” said Principal Chris Kloesz, adding that the seniors look forward to attending each month and love how polite and helpful the students are.

This Act of Charity is a positive experience for everyone involved and is sure to remain a monthly tradition of service for many years to come.

— Virginia Garramone

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‘Wee Care’ celebrates 12 months of collections for families

ANNIE FERGUSON arferguson@charlottediocese.org

CHARLOTTE — Families with young children in western North Carolina are expressing their gratitude to Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte for diaper drives held at 19 parishes and one Catholic school this year in honor of the diocese’s 50th anniversary.

The organization’s Wee Care Ministry has especially been a godsend for one young woman who was left to care for her little brothers after their mother died. She sent her heartfelt thanks to Silvia Echeverria, a case manager for Catholic Charities.

“We have many families who are always very grateful to the Wee Care program because we have helped them through difficult times in their lives,” Echeverria said. “Wee Care has helped this young woman with diapers, clothes and things for the home, and she says with the money she saves on diapers she can now pay bills and buy other items for her family.”

Case Manager Gina Cabrera added, “They also feel that they are not alone, they feel that they are accompanied. They not only appreciate the material but also the humane treatment that we provide to them.”

The same is true for hundreds of families across the region.

Joe Purello, director of social concerns and advocacy for Catholic Charities, and Jesse Boeckermann, western region director for Catholic Charities, worked together to organize a variety of diaper drives at churches and schools throughout the diocese in 2022. The charitable acts marked this year’s 50th anniversary of the diocese.

With the help of volunteers and donors, Catholic Charities supplied essential baby care items and other necessities to more than 500 families with infants and small children. The Wee Care Collections initiative is an outgrowth of Catholic Charities’ Wee Care Ministry that has been serving families for 25 years.

“Catholic Charities’ Wee Care Ministry is one of the many ways that the Diocese of Charlotte walks with moms, dads and children in need,” said Purello. “Providing such assistance helps families with young children who are struggling on limited budgets, and Catholic Charities is very grateful to all the parishes and schools that help make the work of Catholic Charities possible.”

The donations of diapers and wipes were quickly distributed through Catholic Charities’ offices. Asheville-based Catholic Charities staff and volunteers also participated in two community fairs – the Health, Hope and Recovery Rally at Riverfront Park in Bryson City, and the Cherokee County Resource Fair in Murphy – to distribute many of the diapers and wipes, as well as feminine hygiene products, pet food, toiletries, toilet paper and other supplies.

The items come in blue-cloth Catholic Charities bags, a welcome sight for the families in need.

“Thank you for all the help. May God continue to bless you. The

assistance of diapers and the blue bag of things for me are what I wanted. Thank you,” said one mother.

Another added, “All the services are excellent. My family and I are very blessed to have the aid of diapers and jackets for my children.”

“Personally, everything I have come to Catholic Charities for, they have helped me with,” said one young woman. “The folks are very nice and listen to my requests.”

Parishes and schools taking part in the year-long collection effort included: St. Francis of Assisi in Lenoir, St. Margaret of Scotland in Maggie Valley, Holy Trinity in Taylorsville, St. Charles

Prayer for the 50th anniversary

The 50th anniversary year will bear great spiritual fruit if we ask God for the graces we hope to receive. Please offer the 50th anniversary prayer daily for many graces to be poured on our diocese during this jubilee anniversary:

Heavenly Father, accept our humble prayer of praise and gratitude as we joyfully celebrate 50 years as the Diocese of Charlotte. Throughout our history the faithful of western North Carolina, under the watchful care of esteemed bishops and abbots, have been nurtured by Your providential hand. Confident that You invite Your children to implore Your constant blessings, we pray that You continue to pour forth Your heavenly grace upon us. With filial affection and devotion, we further ask that You look kindly upon the prayers we seek through the intercession of our venerable patroness, the Most Blessed Virgin Mary, who with motherly attention tends to the needs and concerns of the Church. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever. Amen.

Prayers & Devotions

The 50th anniversary theme, “Faith More Precious Than Gold” (1 Peter 1:7), encourages use of the Church’s tried-and-true prayers, devotions and sacramentals, which for centuries have brought people closer to God. Let us confidently ask for the graces we hope to receive from God as we celebrate the founding of the Diocese of Charlotte. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us!

December prayer intention

Borromeo in Morganton, St. Margaret Mary in Swannanoa, Asheville Catholic School, St. John the Evangelist in Waynesville, St. Aloysius in Hickory, St. Mary Mother of God in Sylva, St. Peter in Charlotte, Sacred Heart in Brevard, St. Joan of Arc in Candler, St. Andrew the Apostle in Mars Hill, Sacred Heart in Burnsville, St. Jude in Sapphire Valley, Our Lady of the Mountains in Highlands, Our Lady of Consolation in Charlotte, St. Barnabas in Arden, Queen of the Apostles in Belmont, St. Joseph in Newton and the Diocesan Pastoral Center in Charlotte.

How you can help

If your parish or school would like to host a diaper drive to help stock Catholic Charities’ Wee Care Ministry shelves, email Catholic Charities at info@ccdoc.org. Individual donations of diapers and baby wipes are also welcome. Go to www.ccdoc.org/contact-us to schedule a donation dropoff. For financial donations, go to www.ccdoc.org/donate

For children and youth. May Christ who came among us as a child strengthen the hearts and minds of our children, that they may faithfully receive the word of God by their ears and eyes, and profess their faith by their mouths.

Saint of the Month

St. Juan Diego Feast day: Dec. 9

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PHOTOS PROVIDED BY JOE PURELLO (Above) Parishioners of St. Joseph Church in Newton held a diaper drive in November.

(Left) Students from Asheville Catholic School load diapers from the collection they held in April.

Mensaje pastoral de Navidad

Queridos hermanos en Cristo, con mucho gozo y alegría hemos llegado a este solemne tiempo de Navidad, en donde el Hijo de Dios, Rey del Universo y de la historia, hace su aparición gloriosa entre nosotros para ser el Emanuel, es decir, el Dios entre nosotros, el Dios que camina con nosotros, ese precioso Jesús que viene a salvarnos, y que en estos días lo encontraremos representado en la belleza e inocencia de un Niño.

Después de la hermosa preparación que tuvimos durante el Adviento, con todos los retiros que se realizaron en las parroquias, las miles de confesiones realizadas y las posadas o novenas de preparación, ahora viene este tiempo de paz y de alegría en el cual como cristianos queremos celebrar en grande.

La Nochebuena, como nosotros le llamamos, tiene un toque muy especial, todos queremos ir a Misa y celebrar con toda la comunidad. Hay un ambiente muy hermoso en esta Misa, que deberíamos de tomar como modelo para todas las celebraciones del año. Todo mundo sonríe, todo mundo de una u otra manera quiere dar, los mismos niños vienen a la Misa con una alegría angelical, como animados por el ángel a ver y contemplar el gran misterio de la Encarnación.

Aún los mismos sacerdotes reciben un don de gracia muy especial en esta noche, ellos saben que miles de almas vendrán, incluso aquellas almas que por algún descuido se habían alejado de la comunidad. Es el momento oportuno para desearles esa feliz Navidad, es decir, el deseo sincero y profundo de que Dios nazca en sus corazones y trabaje en ellos la gracia de Dios. No está de menos mencionar la homilía, en esta noche santa, los sacerdotes toman su tiempo para comunicar de una manera hermosa la alegría del Evangelio.

En este tiempo tan hermoso, quiero elevar mi mirada a María Santísima, la Reina, la más Amada. Qué hermoso es sentir que ella está allí muy cerca de su Hijo en ese gran misterio de la Encarnación; qué hermoso es ver que incluso la Iglesia ha puesto un día muy importante, al mero inicio del año, para conmemorar a María como Madre de Dios y, ahora para nosotros como diócesis la posibilidad de que vaya a ser nuestra patrona.

No podemos olvidar mis queridos hermanos, la importancia de la familia en este tiempo. La iglesia pone un domingo durante la octava de Navidad para meditar en las virtudes de esta gran familia de Nazareth, en donde se resaltan las virtudes de la oración, del silencio, del trabajo, de la buena relación humana, del don de la pobreza y obediencia y

sobre todo el llamamiento universal a la santidad de cada una de las familias cristianas.

Quiero también recordar en esta carta pastoral a los reyes magos, esos sabios de oriente que dejando la comodidad y seguridad de sus naciones vinieron a buscar y reconocer al Rey de Reyes. Ellos trajeron hermosos dones para rendirse ante su Señor, oro, reconociendo la realeza de este niño; incienso para reconocer su divinidad; y mirra para reconocer que había tomado la naturaleza humana.

En este visitar y dar regalos a este niño, quiero felicitar a todos los agentes pastorales de evangelización y catequesis, que, como los reyes magos, ahora le traen al Señor sus dones. Dirán ustedes y ¿cuáles son esos dones? Y la respuesta es muy hermosa y placentera, lo que más le agrada al Señor, lo más hermoso a sus ojos, es decir, las almas por las cuales Él quiso nacer, darse y entregarse.

Recordaremos con alegría, los cientos de jóvenes que durante el año fueron evangelizados e invitados a seguir a Cristo; ofrecemos al Señor también a todas las personas que estuvieron en la formación teológica y fueron profundizando en el misterio de Cristo. Traemos como don también a las miles de personas que con alegría asistieron al Congreso Eucarístico. Con alegría vimos los cientos de catequistas que llegaron para crecer mas en su ministerio. No se diga los cientos de parejas que recibieron una orientación y ayuda para sus matrimonios y finalmente lo que es mas hermoso y agradable al Señor, los cientos de personas que van encontrando a Cristo Eucaristía como centro de sus vidas, llenando las horas de adoración en las parroquias las cuales vemos cada vez mas comprometido el ministerio Hispano, pues nos lo hemos propuesto como misión.

Queridos hermanos, estos dones son los que hemos ido logrando y tenemos todavía mucho terreno por conquistar. Que la gracia que nos trae este Tiempo de Navidad nos ayude a llenarnos de entusiasmo y bendición y sigamos en la obra de salvación que Jesucristo nos ha traído.

Feliz Navidad para todos ustedes, que esta noche santa sea el momento inaugural de un tiempo en el cual estaremos celebrando profundamente la llegada del gran don de Dios Padre al mundo, el regalo precioso de su Hijo, porque ciertamente Dios quiere que todos los hombres se salven.

EL PADRE JULIO DOMÍNGUEZ es Vicario Episcopal del Ministerio Hispano de la Diócesis de Charlotte.

Con procesiones, vigilias, rezos del Rosario, Mañanitas, Mariachi, Misas, representaciones teatrales, danzas, cantos y otros festejos, miles de fieles a lo largo de toda la Diócesis de Charlotte se unieron a la celebración mundial por Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe. En Charlotte, la parroquia que lleva el nombre de la Emperatriz de las Américas organizó una velada de más de 24 horas contínuas.

CORTESÍA PARROQUIA NUESTRA SEÑORA DE GUADALUPE

Festejos Guadalupanos se extendieron por dos días

CÉSAR HURTADO rchurtado@charlottediocese.org

CHARLOTTE — Miles de feligreses demostraron su fe y amor por la Virgen de Guadalupe en decenas de celebraciones realizadas en las iglesias de toda la diócesis.

Las festividades iniciaron, en algunos casos, el domingo 11, víspera de la fecha central, esperando la medianoche para cantarle Las Mañanitas a la Virgen Morena.

Algunas parroquias recordaron a María de Guadalupe el lunes 12 temprano por la mañana, mientras que otras programaron sus Misas y actos por la tarde y noche.

En Asheville, la comunidad hispana se unió en una celebración interparroquial que tuvo lugar el domingo 11 en el Centro Agricultural en Fletcher. Una procesión, la Santa Misa oficiada por el Padre Nohe Torres y los eventos artísticos y culturales programados culminaron a las ocho de la noche del mismo día.

En Charlotte, la parroquia Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe inició sus festejos el domingo 11 pasadas las seis de la tarde. Danzas, Rosarios, cantos, representación de las apariciones marianas ante el indígena San Juan Diego, procesión, Mariachi y Misas en diversos horarios se sucedieron por más de 24 horas consecutivas.

La Misa central, concelebrada por el Padre Leo Tiburcio, párroco; el Padre Hugo Medellín, vicario; y el invitado, Padre Miguel Sánchez, vicario parroquial de la Iglesia San Mateo en Charlotte, se realizó a las 9 de la noche del domingo.

El Padre Medellín, al inicio de la Misa, oró para que, por intercesión de María Santísima, podamos profundizar en nuestra fe para lograr el progreso de los pueblos por caminos de justicia y de paz.

Luego, en su homilía, abordó el ‘sí’ de María, de quien dijo que después de realizar algunas preguntas al ángel de la anunciación, le dice ‘Soy la esclava del

Señor, cúmplase en mí lo que has dicho’.

“Este ‘sí’ de María tiene mucho que ver con nosotros, con la vía de fe. Aquí, en esta comunidad, en la Iglesia universal, muchas personas cambian sus vidas, se vuelven a Dios y se entregan a la misión de la Iglesia”, dijo.

Luego, mirando a los asistentes, comentó que mucha gente viene durante esta fiesta, pero no regularmente a la Iglesia. “A ellos quiero hacerles una pregunta: ¿Qué es lo que necesitan para cambiar su vida?, ¿qué es lo que necesitan para volverse a Dios? Y lo más importante, ¿qué es lo que podemos hacer para ayudarles?”, finalizó.

Debido a la gran asistencia prevista, los organizadores habilitaron tres carpas gigantes con televisores para seguir las actividades, así como un altar a la virgen en el patio de entrada al templo.

Al término de la Misa, el Padre Tiburcio agradeció a los asistentes por su comprensión ante las dificultades.

“Nuestro templo es muy pequeño, hemos tenido que colocar carpas grandes. Todo está lleno y muchos hermanos están afuera, con frío, pero igualmente están presentes para festejar a la Virgen de Guadalupe”, dijo.

Luego saludó la presencia del Padre Sánchez, a quien invitó a presentarse ante la comunidad.

La Sra. Antonieta Rueda, nacida en Ciudad de México, quien asistió acompañada de sus dos menores hijos, dejó flores ante la imagen de la Guadalupana.

“He venido a agradecerle a nuestra Virgen todo lo bueno y todo lo no tan bueno de este año. Y quiero pedirle que me conceda salud para seguir trabajando por ellos”, dijo, refiriéndose a sus niños en brazos.

Más online

En www.facebook.com/CNHEspañol : Vea más fotos y videos de la celebración de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe en las iglesias de la diócesis.

Padre Julio Domínguez

FOTO

Nahui Ollin, cinco años danzando para la Virgen Morena

CÉSAR HURTADO rchurtado@charlottediocese.org

CHARLOTTE — “¡Cómo pasa el tiempo! ¡Se va volando! Especialmente si está dedicado a nuestra Santísima Madre, la Virgen María de Guadalupe”, dijo la señora Mónica Cajero, coordinadora general del grupo de danza ‘Nahui Ollin’, que cumplió su quinto aniversario de brindar el arte de la danza durante la fiesta de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe que organiza la parroquia del mismo nombre en Charlotte.

En 2018, viendo la necesidad de ofrecer danzas folclóricas mexicanas y aztecas propias de la comunidad, la Sra. Cajero comunicó sus intenciones de formar un grupo de baile al entonces párroco, Padre Vicente Finnerty, quien de inmediato dio el visto bueno y ofreció ayuda económica para la elaboración de algunos trajes y la compra de instrumentos.

El grupo, que inició con alrededor de 20 integrantes, cuenta hoy con más de 35 miembros de todas las edades, entre niños, adolescentes y adultos.

“La más pequeña tiene siete años y la mayor más de 50”, precisó la señora Cajero. Comentó que Johan Madrid, de 10 años, de padres salvadoreños, “es un enamorado de la danza. Hace poco me dijo que sus ahorros los iba a usar para comprar un escudo que usaban los aztecas. Eso me emocionó, me halagó, me hizo ver que el esfuerzo de los maestros y organizadores por mantener la devoción da sus frutos”.

Las clases se ofrecen gratuitamente los viernes, y los ensayos para las fiestas guadalupanas inician regularmente en el mes de octubre. “El grupo no tiene edad y es abierto para cualquier persona que tenga devoción. Son voluntarios quienes dictan las clases, y otras personas ayudan por amor a la Virgen y su parroquia”, dijo.

“Al bailar para la Virgen, que también es otra forma de orar, sentimos una magia, una gracia especial, que en el momento no te importa nada, ni el esfuerzo, ni el cansancio. No tiene explicación”, añadió la coordinadora.

Respecto al nombre del grupo, Nahui Ollin, refirió que es el nombre de la flor de cuatro pétalos que aparece en el vientre de la imagen de María de Guadalupe. Su significado en español es ‘Dios presente’, ‘Dios por nacer’, aclaró.

Desde 2018 hasta el presente año, el

grupo de danza Nahui Ollin no ha dejado de ofrecer su arte a la Virgen. “No nos detuvo la pandemia. Esto no va a parar, quiero que siga. Es mi sueño, como madre soltera e inmigrante. Quiero que los niños aprendan y mantengan la devoción a nuestra Virgencita”, agregó la Sra. Cajero.

Gánele a la depresión estacional

CÉSAR HURTADO rchurtado@charlottediocese.org

CHARLOTTE — Según los Centros de control y prevención de enfermedades de Estados Unidos (CDC, por sus siglas en inglés), la depresión afecta a uno de cada diez habitantes del país y puede afectar de forma negativa el curso y el resultado de afecciones crónicas comunes, como la artritis, el asma, la enfermedad cardiovascular, el cáncer, la diabetes y la obesidad. La depresión también puede provocar aumentos de ausentismo laboral, incapacidades a corto plazo y descenso de la productividad.

Según la misma fuente, tienen mayor tendencia a la depresión las personas entre 45 y 64 años; las personas afroamericanas, los hispanos, las personas de otras razas o de razas múltiples; las mujeres; las personas que no han completado la educación secundaria; las personas que han estado casadas previamente; las personas que no pueden trabajar o están desempleadas; y las personas sin cobertura de seguro de salud.

Sabiendo que especialmente en los migrantes, alejados de sus tierras de origen y, en ocasiones, imposibilitados de retornar por diversas razones, la sensación de

aislamiento y soledad puede incrementar la depresión durante la temporada navideña y de fiestas de Año Nuevo, consultamos a Gloria Restrepo y Angélica Hurtado, coaches profesionales certificadas y fundadoras de Balance Coaching Life Center, compañía que brinda asistencia regular a la Pastoral de Salud del Vicariato de Charlotte en sus conferencias presenciales y online.

Ellas aseguran que estas ‘depresiones estacionales’ se presentan más en las mujeres ya que, “se apegan más a sus vivencias y creencias adquiridas desde la infancia”.

“Es importante aprender a aceptar que se tiene estas caídas emocionales, a las que llamamos depresión pero que en realidad pueden ser nostalgia o añoranza. Hay que buscar alternativas que sustituyan esa carencia. Por ejemplo, si la persona no cuenta con familia, buscar amigos que ayuden a subir el ánimo y sirvan de fuente de distracción”, añadieron.

Si la persona sabe que tiene estos sentimientos, dijeron, puede buscar ayuda profesional para soltar esa carga emocional. “Si le es difícil, puede hacer actividades fuera de casa, ir a la playa, al campo, hacer ejercicios físicos. Aprender ejercicios de respiración guiada es muy

recomendado para bajar las tensiones acumuladas en estas fiestas”, aseguraron.

También advirtieron que la presión social de las campañas publicitarias que tratan de transmitir la necesidad o el ‘deber’ de estar felices y en familia pueden generar, en aquellos que no ‘encajan’ con este ideal, sentimientos de inseguridad, baja autoestima, desmotivación que, dependiendo de la personalidad, puede degenerar en problemas de insatisfacción general.

Finalmente, recomendaron que, si deseamos ayudar a una persona con ‘melancolía de navidad’ podemos prestarle atención con escucha activa, proponerle ir al cine, a comer, a pasear, integrarla a grupos, fomentar relaciones con la familia, compartir con juegos, recordar experiencias gratas del pasado.

“Recurrir a recuerdos positivos, escribirlos y volverlos a vivir para que su mente y su cuerpo se alineen con esos sentimientos y sensaciones positivas. La tendencia es recordar solo lo negativo. Escucharlos ayudará a que vayan recordando que sí hubieron momentos felices que nos aportaron mucho en la vida y, a partir de allí, la persona puede construir nuevas situaciones más favorables en su vida”, afirmaron.

Let’s keep talking.

This Advent and Christmas set your heart and mind on the things above!

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Mon-Fri 10- 6 & Saturdays 10-4 Call us at 704-461-5100 for more information and stock inquiries.

Glor y to God in the highest; and on ear th peace to men of good will. Luke 2:14 “That in all things God

THE CATHOLIC SHOPPE At Belmont Abbey College

FOTO CORTESÍA GRUPO DE DANZA NAHUI OLLIN

Compuesto por miembros y voluntarios sin distinción de edad ni género, el grupo Nahui Ollin desarrolla actividades en la parroquia Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe desde 2018, cuando fue fundado para honrar a la Morenita del Tepeyac durante las celebraciones de su fiesta en diciembre.

Obispo Jugis celebrará Misa de Clausura del 50 Aniversario

CHARLOTTE — El Obispo Peter Jugis celebrará la Misa de Clausura del 50 Aniversario de la Diócesis de Charlotte el jueves 12 de enero a las 7 de la noche en el Centro de Vida Familiar de la Catedral San Patricio.

Debido a renovaciones en la catedral, la Hora Santa, de 5:30 a 6:30 p.m., y la Misa de Clausura se celebrarán en el Centro de Vida Familiar de la parroquia que tiene una capacidad muy limitada.

A lo largo de 2022, año del 50 Aniversario, una peregrinación mariana de la imagen de María, Madre de Dios, ha viajado por el oeste de Carolina del Norte visitando parroquias, escuelas católicas, conventos y el Seminario Universitario San José,

Marchas Provida en enero

CHARLOTTE — El mes de enero ofrecerá tres oportunidades para ser testigos de la santidad de la vida en Charlotte, Raleigh y Washington, D.C. La Oficina de Vida Familiar organiza el viaje en autobús a los eventos de Raleigh y Washington.

MARCHA POR LA VIDA CHARLOTTE

Viernes 13 de enero, Charlotte Detalles en: www.marchforlifecharlotte.com

MARCHA POR EL DERECHO A LA VIDA

CAROLINA DEL NORTE

Sábado 14 de enero, Raleigh Detalles en: www.ncrtl.org/events

ofreciendo a los fieles la oportunidad de rezar la oración del 50 Aniversario y pedir a Nuestra Santísima Madre su intercesión.

Durante el año en curso, los feligreses y el clero conmemoraron el 50 Aniversario realizando docenas de Actos de Caridad en beneficio de organizaciones comunitarias aliadas que ayudan a los pobres, personas sin hogar, mujeres y niños, y a quienes sufren inseguridad alimentaria, solo por nombrar algunos de los programas de asistencia.

La Catedral San Patricio está ubicada en 1621 Dilworth Road East en Charlotte. El Centro de Vida Familiar está ubicado detrás de la rectoría.

— SueAnn Howell

MARCHA NACIONAL POR LA VIDA

Viernes 20 de enero, Washington, D.C. Detalles en: www.marchforlife.org

Mayor información puede encontrarse en el aviso de la Oficina de Vida Familiar en la edición de Catholic News Herald de esta semana.

¿Preguntas? Contacte a Jessica Grabowski, directora del programa diocesano de Respeto por la vida, al 704-370-3229 o envíe un email a jagrabowski@rcdoc.org

— SueAnn Howell

Moisés Cisneros (primero de la izquierda), director del Coro ‘Cristo Reina’ de la parroquia San John Neumann en Charlotte, aparece con algunos de los integrantes de la agrupación. Lo acompañan Emma Rojas, Sonia Cisneros, Keiry Fuentes, Mónica López, Marta Meza, Christian Fuentes, Steven Rivera, José Rivera, Rigo García, Kalisto Velka, Dimitry Semakov e Israel Rivas.

“Ya llegó la Navidad”

Coro de San John Neumann graba tema navideño

CÉSAR HURTADO

rchurtado@charlottediocese.org

CHARLOTTE — “Los coros de los cielos y de toda la Tierra, cantemos sin cesar al Niño Dios que hoy llega”, dice una de las estrofas del tema navideño que produjo el Ministerio de música “Cristo Reina’ de la parroquia San John Neumann.

El tema ‘Ya llegó la Navidad’, compuesto por el director del ministerio musical, Moisés Cisneros, fue creado hace más de quince años y “este año finalmente pudimos concretar el sueño de poderlo grabar profesionalmente, publicarlo y compartirlo por muchas redes musicales y sociales este siete de diciembre”, dijo Cisneros.

Cuando compuso la canción, afirma, pensaba en la promesa que hizo Dios a la humanidad de enviarle un salvador. “Me inspira muchísimo la Navidad. Creo que la Navidad es ese momento tan especial en el que se cumple esa promesa del mismo Dios sobre la llegada de nuestro Mesías. El que no celebra Navidad tiene que estar ciego, porque si el cielo mismo se estremeció en ese momento importante, ¿cómo podríamos nosotros permanecer sin prestarle atención?”

Respecto a la música, siendo un admirador de la salsa, le puso ese estilo a su creación en la que participan mandolina, bajo, guitarra, piano, bongos, voz solista y un coro de cinco voces.

‘Ya llegó la Navidad’ es parte de más de una decena de temas religiosos de su autoría. Cisneros confiesa que planea dedicar el próximo año para revisar su creación y tratar de grabar más temas “para la gloria de Dios”.

La canción se encuentra disponible en más de 40 plataformas musicales, además de varias redes sociales desde donde espera sea compartida durante esta temporada navideña. “Esperamos que puedan escucharla, compartirla con sus amigos y familiares, les llene de mucha alegría en esta Navidad y puedan sentir el nacimiento del niño Dios en sus corazones. Quien desee comprarla y colaborar con nuestro ministerio también puede hacerlo. La pueden encontrar bajo el nombre de ‘Ya llegó la Navidad’ del Ministerio de Música Cristo Reina”, añadió Cisneros.

Más online

En www.facebook.com/CNHEspañol

Encuentre el tema ‘Ya llegó la Navidad’

Leonard Pliska 12/4/1990

Joseph Weckbach 12/4/1995

Richard Kauth 12/15/2005

Gerard Schumacher 12/1/2010

Gerald LaPointe 12/18/2016

Thomas Rasmussen 12/22/2016

Patrick Devine III 12/10/2020

FOTO CORTESÍA MOISÉS CISNEROS

San Juan Apóstol y Evangelista

San Juan el Evangelista, a quien se distingue como “el discípulo amado de Jesús” y a quien a menudo le llaman “el divino”, sobre todo entre los griegos y en Inglaterra, era un judío de Galilea, hijo de Zebedeo y hermano de Santiago el Mayor, con quien desempeñaba el oficio de pescador.

Junto con su hermano Santiago, se hallaba Juan remendando las redes a la orilla del lago de Galilea, cuando Jesús, que acababa de llamar a su servicio a Pedro y a Andrés, los llamó también a ellos para que fuesen sus Apóstoles.

El propio Jesucristo les puso a Juan y a Santiago el sobrenombre de Boanerges, o sea “hijos del trueno” (Lucas 9, 54), aunque no está aclarado si lo hizo como una recomendación o bien a causa de la violencia de su temperamento.

Se dice que San Juan era el más joven de los doce Apóstoles y que sobrevivió a todos los demás. Es el único de los Apóstoles que no murió martirizado.

En el Evangelio que escribió se refiere a sí mismo, como “el discípulo a quien Jesús amaba”, y es evidente que era de los más íntimos de Jesús. El Señor quiso que estuviese, junto con Pedro y Santiago, en el momento de Su transfiguración, así como durante Su agonía en el Huerto de los Olivos. En muchas otras ocasiones, Jesús demostró a Juan su predilección o su afecto especial. Por consiguiente, nada tiene de extraño desde el punto de vista humano, que la esposa de Zebedeo pidiese al Señor que sus dos hijos llegasen a sentarse junto a Él, uno a la derecha y el otro a la izquierda, en Su Reino.

Juan fue el elegido para acompañar a Pedro a la ciudad a fin de preparar la cena de la última Pascua y, en el curso de aquella última cena, Juan reclinó su cabeza sobre el pecho de Jesús y fue a Juan a quien el Maestro indicó, no obstante que Pedro formuló la pregunta, el nombre del discípulo que habría de traicionarle. Es creencia general la de que era Juan aquel “otro discípulo” que entró con Jesús ante

Lecturas Diarias

DICIEMBRE 25-31

Domingo (La Natividad del Señor): Isaías 52:7-10, Hebreos 1:1-6, Juan 1:1-18; Lunes (San Esteban): Hechos 6:8-10, 7:54-60, Mateo 10:17-22; Martes (San Juan Apóstol y Evangelista): 1 Juan 1:1-4, Juan 20:2-9; Miércoles (Fiesta de los Santos Inocentes): 1 Juan 1:5-2:2, Mateo 2:13-18; Jueves: 1 Juan 2:3-11, Lucas 2:2235; Viernes (Fiesta de la Sagrada Familia): Eclesiástico 3:3-7, 14-17a, Mateo 2:13-15, 19-23; Sábado (San Silvestre, Papa): 1 Juan 2:18-21, Juan 1:1-18

el tribunal de Caifás, mientras Pedro se quedaba afuera.

Juan fue el único de los apóstoles que estuvo al pie de la cruz con la Virgen María y las otras piadosas mujeres y fue él quien recibió el sublime encargo de tomar bajo su cuidado a la Madre del Redentor. “Mujer, he ahí a tu hijo”, murmuró Jesús a su Madre desde la cruz. “He ahí a tu madre”, le dijo a Juan. Y desde aquel momento, el discípulo la tomó como suya.

El Señor nos llamó a todos hermanos y nos encomendó el amoroso cuidado de Su propia Madre, pero entre todos los hijos adoptivos de la Virgen María, San Juan fue el primero. Tan sólo a él le fue dado el privilegio de llevar físicamente a María a su propia casa como una verdadera madre y honrarla, servirla y cuidarla en persona.

— Extraído de Aciprensa

For more information on how to leave a legacy gift to your parish, Catholic school, Catholic agency, the Diocese of Charlotte or the diocese foundation, please contact Gina Rhodes, Director of Planned Giving at 704-370-3364 / gmrhodes@rcdoc.org .

Foundation of the Diocese of Charlotte

ENERO 1-7

Domingo (Solemnidad de María Santísima, Madre de Dios): Números 6:2227, Gálatas 4:4-7, Lucas 2:16-21; Lunes (Memoria de San Basilio Magno y San Gregorio Nacianzeno, obispos y doctores de la Iglesia): 1 Juan 2:22-28, Juan 1:19-28; Martes: 1 Juan 2:29–3:6, Juan 1:29-34; Miércoles (Memoria de Santa Isabella Ana Seton, religiosa): 1 Juan 3:7-10 , Juan 1:35-42; Jueves (Memoria de San Juan Nepomuceno Neumann, obispo): 1 Juan 3:11-21, Juan 1:43-51; Viernes (Memoria

de San Andrés Bessette, religioso): 1 Juan 5, 5-13, Marcos 1:7-11; Sábado: 1 Juan 5:14-21, Juan 2:1-11

ENERO 8-14

Domingo (Solemnidad de la Epifanía del Señor): Isaías 60:1-6, Efesios 3:2-3a, 5-6, Mateo 2:1-12; Lunes (Fiesta del Bautismo del Señor): Isaías 42:1-4, 6-7, Mateo 3:1317; Martes: Hebreos 2:5-12, Marcos 1:21-28; Miércoles: Hebreos 2:14-18, Marcos 1:2939; Jueves: Hebreos 3:7-14, Marcos 1:40-45; Viernes: Hebreos 4:1-5, 11, Marcos 2:112; Sábado: Hebreos 4:12-16, Marcos 2:13-17

Establish a legacy that responds to the many gifts God has given you.

Your Life’s Journey… how will you be remembered?

FOTO CORTESÍA MUSEO DEL PRADO, MADRID “San Juan Evangelista”, óleo en panel de Peter Paul Rubens (16101612)

Our nation

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief

Catholic parish sues over its right to hire staff who uphold Church tenets

LANSING, Mich. — A Catholic parish in the Diocese of Lansing has filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court to protect its right to hire parish employees and staff for its grade school who uphold the tenets of the Catholic faith.

The filing follows a July 28 ruling by the Michigan Supreme Court that reinterpreted a state civil rights statute’s definition of sex to include gender identity and sexual orientation without any exemption for religious organizations.

Filed Dec. 5 in U.S. District Court for the

Western District of Michigan-Southern Division, the suit names state Attorney General Dana Nessel, the Department of Civil Rights and the Civil Rights Commission.

Becket, a Washington-based religious liberty law firm, is representing the plaintiff, St. Joseph Catholic Church in St. Johns, Mich. Founded in 1857, it is the only Catholic parish in town. Its elementary school opened in 1924.

The state Supreme Court’s “new understanding” of the civil rights statute “would make it illegal for St. Joseph to operate in accordance with the 2,000-year-old teachings of the Catholic Church on marriage and sexuality,” Becket said in a statement. “This threatens the school’s right to hire staff who will faithfully pass on the tenets of the faith to the next generation,” it said.

Gomez: Virgin of Guadalupe ‘leads us to Jesus,’ and way to peace

LOS ANGELES — Our Lady of Guadalupe “always leads us to Jesus, who will show us the way to find peace,” Archbishop José H. Gomez

Construction Project Manager

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte is currently accepting resumes for the position of “Construction Project Manager” to work within the Office of Diocesan Properties. The Construction Project Manager is responsible for providing professional Owner representation and guidance on Diocesan construction projects.

The Construction Project Manager will work closely with Pastors and Principals, assisting in all aspects of the planning and execution of Church and School construction projects.

REQUIREMENTS INCLUDE:

• Bachelor’s degree or greater in associated field preferred.

• 5+ years minimum related experience.

• Strong inter-personal communication skills – both written and verbal.

• Strong critical thinking and problem solving skills.

• Ability to work both independently and with a team.

• Strong knowledge of the principles and practices of proper project management.

• Advanced level of proficiency in Microsoft Office products including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Microsoft Project, and Adobe Acrobat Pro.

• Strong knowledge of project delivery methods such as Negotiated GMP, Lump-Sum Competitive Bidding, and Design-Build methods.

• Strong knowledge of church and school building construction preferred.

• Ability to read and interpret Architectural / Engineering drawings and submittals.

• Working knowledge of electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems.

• Working knowledge of building codes, construction materials, and means and methods.

• Working knowledge of accounting principles, and the reporting of financial data. To apply, please email a cover letter, resume and salary history to PropDirector@RCDOC.org.

of Los Angeles said Dec. 4. “Jesus will show us the way to the true happiness and love in our lives,” he told thousands of the faithful gathered for an annual outdoor Mass at East Los Angeles College’s Weingart Stadium. “True conversion is to change the way in which we live,” he said in Spanish during his bilingual homily. “Let’s ask our Mother Mary to help us discover what are those small things we need to change in our lives.” He reminded Massgoers of Our Lady of Guadalupe’s message of hope, compassion, unity and love. “God wants us to remain united, to be close to Him and close to each other, especially in our families. Let’s make of our families a model of unity and a place full of love,” the archbishop said. “Our homes should always be where Jesus should be present and a place where all can find love, compassion and mercy.”

The liturgy followed a procession through the streets of East Los Angeles that included “andas,” or decorated handmade carts with framed images or statues brought by families and parish groups to honor the Virgin of Guadalupe. Themed “Holy Mary of Guadalupe, Mother of life and peace, pray for us,” the procession and Mass commemorated the 491st anniversary of the apparitions of Mary to the peasant Juan Diego, who was canonized in 2002 by St. John Paul II.

Like 5th Circuit, 8th Circuit blocks Biden administration’s transgender mandate

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in St. Louis Dec. 9

permanently blocked a transgender mandate the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services implemented as a revision to the Affordable Care Act. The mandate forces doctors and hospitals to perform gendertransition procedures on their patients even if this violates their conscience and best medical judgment.

The 8th Circuit concluded the mandate violates a key federal law protecting religious liberty – the Religious Freedom Restoration Act.

The Biden administration has 45 days from the date of the ruling to ask the 8th Circuit to rehear the case, Sisters of Mercy v. Becerra, or 90 days to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court.

“The federal government has no business forcing doctors to violate their consciences or perform controversial procedures that could permanently harm their patients,” said Luke Goodrich, vice president and senior counsel at Becket, a Washington-based religious liberty law firm representing the plaintiffs.

“This is a commonsense ruling that protects patients, aligns with best medical practice, and ensures doctors can follow their Hippocratic oath to ‘do no harm,’” he said in a Dec. 9 statement.

The 8th Circuit’s ruling echoes a unanimous ruling by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans, which struck down the mandate in a late August ruling in Franciscan Alliance v. Becerra.

The Biden administration had until Nov. 25 to appeal the 5th Circuit’s decision to the U.S. Supreme Court, but no appeal was filed.

— Catholic News Service

“He was an amazing mentor when I was the first youth minister in the Diocese of Charlotte,” said Anne Trufant. “His love for the youth was such a gift, and when he sang, I’m sure it called down angels! Father Wilbur was a wonderful man of God. I am so grateful to have known him.”

In 1979, he helped organize the diocese’s second Diocesan Assembly on Evangelization, where he was its keynote speaker, and he helped coordinate planning assemblies that led up to the pivotal Diocese of Charlotte Synod in 1986-1987.

Father Thomas was also a leader for the early Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement, which had a big impact on his spirituality according to friends. In 1974 he began a small prayer group in a parishioner’s home, and over the years the group grew to more than 90 people meeting in the library at his alma mater, Bishop McGuinness High School.

As an African American priest, Father Thomas encouraged and inspired fellow black Catholics to get involved in the Church. He organized the diocese’s Committee of Black Catholic Ministry and Evangelization, now called the African American Affairs Ministry.

He also helped arrange the diocese’s first Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration, with a Mass celebrated Jan. 25, 1986, at St. Patrick Cathedral in Charlotte.

Father Thomas served as master of ceremonies. Concelebrants were Bishop Michael Begley, bishop emeritus; Bishop John Donoghue, the newly ordained Bishop of Charlotte; and Bishop Joseph Lawson Howze of Biloxi, Miss., formerly a priest of the Charlotte diocese and one of the first African American bishops in the United States.

Even after his retirement in 2018 from active ministry, Father Thomas continued to support and encourage the African American Affairs Ministry and its work.

“It has been a privilege and honor to have known Father Wilbur Thomas for over 27 years,” said Veronica Sartor, board member of the diocese’s African American Affairs Ministry and parishioner of St. Lawrence Basilica in Asheville. “Not only was he a friend, but such a devout and caring priest. He provided encouragement, strength and compassion when I needed it. He directed and inspired me to become involved with the African American Affairs Ministry to enhance my knowledge about my Black Catholic heritage. Father Wil had such an angelic and beautiful voice that penetrated the walls of the basilica, especially when he sang a solo and parts of the Mass. Some parishioners call him ‘holy and Christ-like.’ I will really miss my friend and confidant.”

DEVOTED TO HIS BROTHER PRIESTS

Father Thomas was a pillar of fraternal support, encouragement and counsel for his fellow priests. He truly believed in

the word “collegiality,” recall priests who knew him.

“I think the biggest joy he had was when he served as vicar for priests for our diocese,” said Father Morris Boyd, noting that Father Thomas also worked on continuing education for priests with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and chaired the diocese’s Presbyteral Council for many years. “He was always there. He attended every ordination that he could possibly get to.”

picking his brain for advice. He was a true mentor, true pastor and true priest. He really was intentional in his priesthood. It was so inspiring. I had so much respect for him.”

CONNECTED TO HIS FAMILY

Later in life, after the deaths of his adoptive parents, Father Thomas was able to locate his biological family and developed a close relationship with his half-sisters, Elaine Lash Sutton and Dr.

dream: the boy she saw in her dream was her half-brother, Wil.

“When he came into our lives, we loved him so much,” she said.

Elaine also mentioned that she had grown up knowing Father Thomas’ mother, and they had been good friends. “I loved his mother,” she added. “But I never knew that she had a child until after she died.”

Elaine later learned that his mother had arranged the adoption in the hospital right after his birth, with Wil sent to live with a childless couple in Lexington.

After his adoptive parents died, Father Thomas sought out his birth family by tracking down the woman who had arranged the adoption.

His half-sister, family and friends were with Father Thomas at the time of his passing. Elaine recalled telling Father Thomas before she left his bedside that his deceased mother “is waiting for you with open arms. She loves you.”

To Elaine, getting to know her halfbrother – albeit later in life – was a blessing, but she acknowledges that the Church really raised Father Thomas. “The Church was his family.”

A DEEPLY SPIRITUAL MAN

Father Thomas’ family, friends and fellow priests all remember his calming and melodic voice, his wise counsel, the charity and love he shared with everyone he knew, and – most importantly – his personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

This included Father Boyd’s ordination 44 years ago.

“Father Thomas and I go back a long way. He was present at my priestly ordination in 1978 and participated in the laying on of hands,” he said. “We worked together at the Basilica of St. Lawrence in Asheville from 2004 until we both retired in 2018. This gentle, quiet shepherd with the voice of an angel touched many lives –including mine. May the choirs of angels be forever jealous!”

Many priests turned to “Father Wil” for spiritual direction over the years.

“He was very kind, very considerate, and easy to talk to,” said Father Robert Ferris. “He was my spiritual director for a while, and I found him to be a man of great wisdom, well regarded by many people who had him as a pastor, and very devoted to his priesthood.”

Father Glen Dmytryszyn, a priest in the Archdiocese of Hartford, Conn., met Father Thomas when he was a high-school freshman. Originally from Connecticut, he and his family were parishioners at St. Lawrence Basilica at the time.

“Our faith had been re-sparked, and we started going to Mass. As I matured, I began to think about the priesthood. I met with Father Thomas when I was a junior. He was the first priest I told I had a priestly vocation,” Father Dmytryszyn recalled. “He was at my first Mass and blessed my paten and chalice. He was an amazing guy, and we never lost touch. I was still calling him to let him know what I’m doing,

Adrienne Lash Jones, and their families. He enjoyed spending holidays and reunions with his newfound family. He learned that their shared biological father, Wiley Immanuel Lash of Salisbury, had been a successful businessman, the leader of local desegregation efforts, and the first African American man to serve as mayor of Salisbury. His mother, Marion Gunn, had been a brilliant college graduate who worked at Livingstone College as secretary to the president.

His half-sister Elaine remembers his ability to get along with all kinds of people. Now 84, she first met her brother “Father Wil” when she was in her 50s and immediately recognized the resemblance with their shared father.

“Wil is a carbon copy of our dad. He looks just like my dad, and his mannerisms are just the same. Even though he was a private person, he knew how to make people comfortable around him,” she said. When they first met at a Thanksgiving dinner, she recalled, “It was like seeing someone I knew all my life, even though we just met. It was like we had always known each other.”

To Elaine, that first meeting was a confirmation of sorts. Growing up, she had always felt that she had a brother. When she was little – around the time Wil was born – she had a vivid dream: She envisioned a young man, dressed in red choir robes, singing in a church choir.

“I can still see that dream,” she said. Much later in life, she learned it was no

His strong faith powered his lifelong efforts to help build up the Church in western North Carolina, and he encouraged everyone he encountered –whether young people, couples, families or his fellow priests – to always turn to God in prayer, keeping Him at the center of their lives and letting Him guide them.

Through all the joys and sorrows of his priestly vocation, Father Thomas’ relationship with Jesus sustained him. Upon his retirement in 2018, he told the Catholic News Herald that he cherished the time he spent praying before a crucifix and the Blessed Sacrament several times each day.

“That relationship has been the anchor for me,” he said. “Everything flows from that. I trust in His leading and guiding me through His Spirit. I trust myself to His will and His purpose for me every day.”

Father Thomas was preceded in death by his biological and adoptive parents, and his half-sister, Dr. Adrienne Lash Jones.

Survivors include his sister, Elaine Lash Sutton of Cary; nieces Denise, Robin, Taborah, Shannon and Donnah; nephews Derek, Darryl and Brian; his fellow priests and numerous friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Father Wilbur Thomas Endowment Fund, c/o Foundation of the Diocese of Charlotte, 1123 S. Church St., Charlotte, N.C. 28203. Make checks payable to: Foundation of the Diocese of Charlotte, and note the endowment name in the memo line.

Groce Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Asheville was in charge of the arrangements.

since 2010.

FILE | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Father Thomas offers Mass at St. Lawrence Basilica in 2018.

world

Pope asks governments to grant clemency to prisoners at Christmas

CINDY WOODEN Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis is writing to all the heads of state around the world, asking them to consider granting some prisoners clemency at Christmas.

The Vatican press office said Dec. 12 that the pope is asking government leaders to consider freeing or reducing the sentences of men and women they believe would benefit from such a gesture of mercy “so that this time marked by tensions, injustices and conflicts may be opened to the grace that comes from the Lord.”

The Vatican did not release a copy of the letter or explain what prompted it besides the approach of Christmas.

From his days as archbishop of Buenos Aires, Argentina, and continuing after his election to the papacy, Pope Francis has made a special effort to maintain regular contact with prisoners, to meet them in Rome and on his trips around the world and to phone and write them.

At the end of his Angelus address Dec. 11, the pope gave a shoutout to “the detainees in the Due Palazzi prison of Padua: I greet you affectionately!”

In 2016, a group of inmates from the Padua prison were allowed to visit Rome during the Holy Year of Mercy; the pope granted them a private audience in his residence, the Domus Sanctae Marthae.

Then, in 2020, Pope Francis asked the inmates that frequent the prison’s Catholic chaplaincy to write the meditations for his Good Friday Way of the Cross ceremony, which was held in St. Peter’s Square because of the COVID-19 pandemic. And, for most years of his pontificate, he has gone to a prison or juvenile detention facility on Holy Thursday to celebrate Mass and wash the feet of inmates.

Visiting the Gulf nation of Bahrain in November, the pope said the way a country treats prisoners “is a measure of the dignity and the hope of a society.”

St. John Neumann Catholic Church

8451 Idlewild Road – Charlotte, NC 28227 704-536-6520 www.4sjnc.org

Foundation of the Diocese of Charlotte

For more information contact: Gina Rhodes, gmrhodes@rcdoc.org or (704) 370-3364.

Christmas Mass Schedule

December 24, 2022

4:00 PM, * 6:00 PM (English) and *8:00 (Spanish)

*12:00 AM - Midnight Mass

December 25, 2022

9:00 AM and *11 AM (English)

*Incense will be used

No Adoration on Christmas Weekend

Feast of the Solemnity of Mary Saturday December 31, 2022

5:00 PM - Vigil Mass and 7:00 PM Mass in Spanish

Sunday January 1st, 2023

8:00 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM – English and 12:30 PM (Spanish)

There will be No 5 PM Mass

No Adoration on New Year’s Weekend

Pope Francis celebrates Holy Thursday Mass of the Lord’s Supper April 13, 2017, at Paliano prison outside of Rome.

CNS | L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

Bishop charged with conspiracy to undermine Nicaragua

MANAGUA, Nicaragua — A Nicaraguan bishop held for nearly four months was formally charged during an unannounced Dec. 13 court date, marking his first appearance since being detained as a political prisoner by the regime of President Daniel Ortega.

Bishop Rolando Álvarez Lagos of Matagalpa was accused of conspiracy to undermine the country and propagate false news, according to a statement from the courts in the national capital, Managua. Bishop Álvarez was assigned a public defender and told his trial would start Jan. 10, according to the statement, which included photos of the prelate, appearing gaunt, looking stoic and wearing a blue shirt while sitting in court.

More than 40 political prisoners have been convicted on the same charges, according to the newspaper Confidencial.

The court statement also said it had requested that Interpol issue an alert for the arrest of another priest, Father Uriel Antonio Vallejos, who is accused of similar offenses.

The Nicaraguan bishops’ conference refrained from speaking out on Bishop Álvarez’s condition as the regime of President Ortega and his wife, Vice President Rosario Murillo, continued persecuting the Church and other critical voices in the Central American country.

Pope: Antisemitism shows need for Christian-Jewish understanding

VATICAN CITY — Decrying what he described as “hostile times” when antisemitism and

violence against Christians are on the rise, Pope Francis said a renewed commitment to CatholicJewish dialogue is needed.

“The path we have traveled together is considerable,” but the work clearly is not done, the pope told members of the Amitié JudéoChrétienne de France, a dialogue and education group founded in 1948 by Jules Isaac, a French historian who worked to improve ChristianJewish relations after World War II and met with Popes Pius XII and John XXIII.

“We must give thanks to God” for the progress, the pope said, especially “given the weight of mutual prejudices and the sometimespainful history that must be acknowledged. The task is not finished, and I encourage you to persevere on the path of dialogue, fraternity and joint initiatives.”

French bishops set up national church court recommended by abuse report

PARIS — France’s Catholic bishops have set up what they believe to be the world’s first major national Church court, replacing a previous network of local tribunals, although sexual abuse cases involving children will still be referred to the Vatican.

“As a community of believers, the Church has developed a comprehensive legal system, which includes the right to sanction behavior by members” who undermine “the Church’s spiritual and human values,” the bishops’ conference said in a statement. “Like all religions, the Catholic Church is free in its internal organization, and all Catholics, as French citizens, also remain subject to the state law.”

The statement explained the role of the National Canonical Penal Court, set up in Paris Dec. 5. The 20-member court, approved by the Vatican in September, will be tasked with judging “canonical offenses committed by clergy and laity” nationwide, such as acts of sacrilege, apostasy, schism, misuse of sacraments and teachings against the Church’s magisterium.

Senior Accountant

The Diocese of Charlotte is seeking a full time Senior Accountant. This position will supervise a staff of at least one employee. Areas of responsibilities include monthly close, financial statement preparation, general ledger maintenance and reconciliations, journal entries, accounts payable, cash receipts, payroll, budgeting, fund accounting and year-end audit work.

Requirements include:

• Bachelors Degree or equivalent in Accounting, Finance or related field.

• At least four years experience in accounting preferably with a not-for-profit organization.

• Excellent computer skills - specifically with Excel.

• Experience with Blackbaud software - a plus.

• Supervisory experience preferred.

Please send resume and salary/history requirements to Sue Sigler, Controller, Diocese of Charlotte, 1123 South Church Street, Charlotte, NC 28203-4003 or email to sasigler@rcdoc.org.

The Diocese of Charlotte is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The court aimed to “strengthen and harmonize” procedures formerly followed by diocesan and archdiocesan tribunals.

“This is an unprecedented court, which does not exist, with such form and competence,

under any other bishops’ conference,” the statement added.

PAYROLL ASSISTANT

The Diocese of Charlotte is seeking a part-time Payroll Assistant. As part of the payroll team, under the direct supervision of the Diocese Payroll Supervisor, the Payroll Assistant aids in the processing and reviewing of the bi-weekly and monthly payrolls. Areas of responsibilities include entering changes in the payroll system, preparing reports, maintaining files and assisting employees.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Associate or Bachelor degree in Finance, Business or related field

• A one year minimum of working with payroll processes

• At least one year of experience and knowledge with payroll software, Paylocity experience is a plus

Please send resume and salary history/requirements to: Sue Sigler, Controller - Diocese of Charlotte, 1123 South Church Street, Charlotte, NC 28203-4003 or by email to: sasigler@rcdoc.org

The Diocese of Charlotte is an equal opportunity employer.

On being a middle-aged parent

Parenting is hard. I feel well qualified to make that assessment. My wife and I started our family when we were in our early 20s. Now in our 40s (when did that happen?), we’ve arrived at the point where our older children are leaving home. Determined not to let us be empty-nesters until we’re ready for retirement, God blessed us with a new child just over a year ago.

We now find ourselves experiencing a broad spectrum of parenting all at once. Between our eldest daughter, who works for an insurance firm and pays her own bills, and our youngest son, who is still trying to figure out how his legs work, we have a Star Wars-loving 7-year-old, a 12-year-old just entering adolescence, two teenagers living at home and one away at college. That makes seven altogether (unless I lost count).

Someone asked us recently if having a baby at our age has been good for us. As anyone with children knows, infants are hard work. They demand your full attention day and night and there are no days off. When you become a parent, there is a monumental paradigm shift. You are no longer the most important person in your own life. From that moment forward, someone else’s needs always come before your own.

With infants, that need is immediate. They need feeding. They need changing. They need holding. They need rocking. They need, they need, they need, and you give and give and give. They have no respect for your schedule. They don’t care that you are exhausted. A day you manage to get four hours of sleep and a shower is considered a good day. Parenting an infant is like running a marathon you never trained for – while holding a screaming baby. It’s one thing to endure all this in the vigor of your 20s. It’s quite another to do it in your 40s. You don’t weather sleepless nights quite as well. You are a bit more set in your ways. And you were so looking forward to the freedom that having older, more independent children allows.

One thing that comes from being older parents is the knowledge that this age of utter dependence is mercifully, if also heartbreakingly, brief. As children grow, certain things get easier. They learn to walk so you don’t have to carry them. They learn to talk so they can better communicate their needs. They learn to feed themselves, bathe themselves and dress themselves. Each step toward independence means a little more freedom for mom and dad. But it also breaks your heart a little.

Parenting requires sacrifice. We don’t put that on the cover of the brochure, but it needs to be

acknowledged. Children make your life harder. If you are not ready to accept that, then you are not ready to be a parent and, frankly, you are not ready to be in an adult relationship. Spouses also make your life harder. Friends make your life harder. Any loving relationship will make your life harder because love means making sacrifices for the good of others. Jesus shows us this from the cross: God is love, and this is what love looks like.

Babies make your life harder, but so do teenagers. So do adult children. Your older kids don’t need you as much, and that’s hard in a different way. Small children rely on you to fix all their problems, but their problems are generally fixable. Older children have problems you can’t fix, though you desperately want to. The day they move out, they are just as much your baby as the day you brought them home from the hospital, only loving them now is more complicated than keeping them clean and fed. You still have sleepless nights.

Why subject yourself to all this? Because children make your life unfathomably richer. With each new child I realize my heart has a greater capacity for love than I previously imagined. Each child allows me to experience the wonder of creation through another set of eyes. With each child my world is expanded. I learn something different about who I am and who my wife is. Each child is a unique blend of the two of us, whose very existence is an eternal testimony of our love. Perhaps this is why God, who lacks nothing in Himself, decided to create so many children.

Looking only at the difficult aspects of parenting, it is easy to see how some might say it’s not worth it. But that would be like ending the gospel at the Passion; no one would call it good news. We have to look beyond the sacrifice to the new life that flows from it.

Parenting extends your existence beyond yourself in a way that forces you to be less selfish. It teaches you to consider the good of others, especially the vulnerable, and to prioritize others’ needs ahead of your own. It allows you to discover strength that you never knew you had. It teaches you patience and gentleness and shows you that it is possible to carry your cross with joy. To parent well is to discover what it means to love like God, who is both Father and Son.

Is it good for you? You bet. But it’s not easy. Nothing worthwhile ever is.

DEACON MATTHEW NEWSOME is the Catholic campus minister at Western Carolina University and the regional faith formation coordinator for the Smoky Mountain Vicariate.

St. Augustine on why we celebrate Christmas

Awake, mankind! For your sake, God has become man. Awake, you who sleep, rise up from the dead, and Christ will enlighten you. I tell you again: For your sake, God became man.

You would have suffered eternal death had He not been born in time. Never would you have been freed from sinful flesh had He not taken on Himself the likeness of sinful flesh. You would have suffered everlasting unhappiness had it not been for this mercy. You would never have returned to life had He not shared your death. You would have been lost if He had not hastened to your aid. You would have perished had He not come.

Let us then joyfully celebrate the coming of our salvation and redemption. Let us celebrate the festive day on which He who is the great and eternal day came from the great and endless day of eternity into our own short day of time.

He has become our justice, our sanctification, our redemption, so that, as it is written: Let him who glories glory in the Lord.

Truth, then, has arisen from the earth: Christ, who said “I am the Truth,” born of the Virgin. And justice looked down from heaven because, believing in this newborn child, man is justified not by himself but by God.

Truth has arisen from the earth: the Word made flesh. And justice looked down from heaven because every good gift and every perfect gift is from above.

Truth has arisen from the earth: flesh from Mary. And justice looked down from heaven, for man can receive nothing unless it has been given him from heaven.

Justified by faith, let us be at peace with God, for justice and peace have embraced one another. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, for Truth has arisen from the earth. Through whom we have access to that grace in which we stand, and our boast is in our hope of God’s glory. He does not say our glory, but God’s glory, for justice has not come out of us but has looked down from heaven. Therefore he who glories, let him glory, not in himself, but in the Lord.

For this reason, when our Lord was born of the Virgin, the message of the angelic voices was: Glory to God in the highest, and peace to men of good will.

For how could there be peace on earth unless Truth has arisen from the earth, that is, unless Christ were born of our flesh? And He is our peace who made the two into one that we might be men of good will, sweetly linked by the bond of unity.

Let us then rejoice in this grace, so that our glorying may bear witness to our good conscience by which we glory, not in ourselves, but in the Lord. That is why Scripture says: He is my glory, the one who lifts up my head. For what greater grace could God have made to dawn on us than to make His only Son become the son of man, so that a son of man might in his turn become son of God?

Ask if this were merited; ask for its reason, for its justification, and see whether you will find any other answer but sheer grace.

Deacon Matthew Newsome

‘Parenting extends your existence beyond yourself in a way that forces you to be less selfish. It teaches you to consider the good of others, especially the vulnerable, and to prioritize others’ needs ahead of your own.’

Do you use the gifts God has given you?

As we approach the season of Christmas, many of us find ourselves busy with shopping for family and friends. We may spend hours searching the internet and advertisements, striving to find the perfect gift for the best price. We seem to have a deep sense that it is better to give than to receive.

I remember giving my dad a book for Christmas almost every year since I was on my own. I loved seeing how excited he was, how he would ask me if I had read the work before, my opinion on it, and then he would usually spend Christmas morning working his way through several chapters. Not only did that give me joy at the time,

counsel, fortitude, piety and fear of the Lord.

At the moment of confirmation, an indelible mark is placed upon our souls. The gifts will never leave us, even if we fall away from following Our Lord.

However, if they go unused, the gifts collect spiritual dust, if you will. The books I gave my dad never went unused. Had he received those books and left them to collect dust, they would not have served their purpose: being read.

The gifts of the Holy Spirit operate in similar ways. Each of these gifts enable us to live a virtuous life. They build upon the natural virtues, such as the cardinal virtues (prudence, temperance, justice and courage). They help us to become the saints God has intended us to be. Anyone who has tried practicing virtue for a day knows that our fallen human nature needs help. God, as a wise and loving Father, does not abandon us. He gives us His strength through the sacraments. We need only to know what they are and actually use them.

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but it continues to give me a sense of joy as I remember him.

How very similar it is to Our Heavenly Father, who delights in His creation and showers gifts and blessings upon us. But what can we give Him? It doesn’t seem possible that we can offer much to Him who is all perfect and infinite. However, we can give honor to Him by receiving and using the gifts and blessings He so generously gives us. In my own personal experience teaching confirmation preparation or preparing couples for the sacrament of marriage, I have noticed a need to refocus our gaze on the gifts of the Holy Spirit, which are given in the sacrament of confirmation.

We must not only turn our attention to these gifts, but we must also understand how they operate. The gifts of the Holy Spirit, for example, are similar to the gifts we receive at Christmas. At the time of confirmation, the bishop (or his delegate) prays over the confirmandi, calling down the gifts of the Holy Spirit. They are wisdom, understanding, knowledge,

Just as it is not enough to simply look at a nicely wrapped Christmas gift and admire it from afar, we must take those gifts we receive at confirmation, learn more about them, and strive to put them into practice through the grace of God. The most perfect example of participation in this grace was the Blessed Virgin Mary. Our Lady had the free will to participate in God’s plan at the Annunciation. God did not force His will upon her. She freely offered the “gift” of her “fiat” to God the Father, saying, “Let it be to me according to your word” (Lk 1:38). Though Our Lady did not experience the draw to sin which we face in concupiscence, God never ceases to give us His grace. As we approach Christmas, let us remember the greatest gift God has given us in Our Lord’s Incarnation and as a result, the sacraments – especially those gifts of the Holy Spirit we have received in confirmation (or are looking forward to receiving in the Easter season).

It is time to make the resolutions to act thankful for the gifts that God has given us. We can engage those gifts by going to confession frequently (our pastor recommends at least once a month), attending Mass every Sunday (more frequently, if possible), and keeping a regular prayer life. (If that seems overwhelming, talk to your priest about coming up with a plan in spiritual direction.) Ask Our Lady to help you grow in those gifts which she so perfectly lived through her fiat!

AMANDA JOHNSON is the director of religious education at Our Lady of Grace Parish in Greensboro, where she and her husband enjoy developing catechesis opportunities at their parish.

Pope Francis

From online story: “World needs more diplomatic, joint efforts between nations”

Through press time on Dec. 19, 22,273 visitors to www.catholicnewsherald.com have viewed a total of 27,342 pages this month. The top five headlines in December so far have been: n 10 facts about Advent

6,741 n Kelly Henson: Closer to heaven by Christmas 4,858 n Father Wilbur Thomas, one of the first priests of the diocese, passes away 840 n Pray the Holy Infant of Prague nine-day novena, Dec. 16-24...................................................... 729 n Tradición mexicana resalta Fiesta de la Presentación del Señor 672

The Catholic News Herald has reached the Facebook feeds of more than 75,000 people in English and Spanish during the past month. The most talked about post? Tributes to the late Father Wilbur Thomas. Join in the conversation at Facebook.com/CatholicNewsHerald

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The Catholic News Herald welcomes letters from readers. We ask that letters be originals of 250 words or fewer, pertain to recent newspaper content or Catholic issues, and be written from a perspective of Christian charity.

To be considered for publication, each letter must include the name, address and daytime phone number of the writer for purpose of verification. Letters may be condensed due to space limitations and edited for clarity, style

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The Catholic News Herald does not publish poetry, form letters or petitions. Items submitted to The Catholic News Herald become the property of the newspaper and are subject to reuse, in whole or in part, in print, electronic formats and archives.

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and

‘If peace is to have a chance and the poor the prospect of a better future, we are all called to show greater vigilance and respond to the call to be peacemakers in our time.’

Amanda Johnson

Will you be an and help a family in need?

Parenting support for healthy babies and children

Food for hungry families who visit our regional food pantries

Mental health support for families of any income level

Rental assistance to prevent homelessness

After school programs for refugee children

Support for veterans and their families in a time of crisis

Holiday assistance for families facing financial hardship

And so much more!