Oct. 27, 2023

October 27, 2023

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Knights of Peter Claver establishes first chapter in Diocese of Charlotte 4, 21

Señor de los Milagros recibió homenaje de comunidad migrante Hispanic community honors ‘Lord of the Miracles’ in annual procession

6, 18

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Happy Hallowtide!

Three days of prayers and celebrations for those gone before us Celebrando la vida el Día de los Muertos 14-17, 20

Antorcha Guadalupana llegará a Charlotte el 7 de noviembre Guadalupana Torch coming to Charlotte Nov. 7

Catholic schools enrollment opens Nov. 2 as diocese becomes ‘destination’

8, 19

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At a glance 2

catholicnewsherald.com | October 27, 2023 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

CATHOLIC ALL WEEK

OCTOBER 27, 2023

Timely tips for blending faith & life

Volume 33 • NUMBER 2

1123 S. CHURCH ST. CHARLOTTE, N.C. 28203-4003 catholicnews@charlottediocese.org

704-370-3333 PUBLISHER The Most Reverend Peter J. Jugis Bishop of Charlotte

INDEX Contact us.....................................2 Español....................................... 18-21 Our Diocese.................... 4-11, 14-17 Our Faith........................................3 Our Schools.............................12-13 Scripture................................. 3, 21 U.S. news................................22-23 Viewpoints.............................26-27 World news............................ 24-25

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he change of season can certainly be felt as October moves into November. The leaves are set ablaze with a kaleidoscope of colors, the air grows crisp and cool, and kids begin picking out costumes and dreaming of candy. The natural beauty and celebrations of the season are also reflected in the Church this time of year, where in November we celebrate the saints and the faithful departed. This week, consider saying some special prayers to St. Charles Borromeo.

1 Enjoy a feast on Nov. 4 Nov. 4 marks the feast day of St. Charles Borromeo, an Italian bishop who lived during the Protestant Reformation and who, although born into the wealthy Medici family, devoted his life to the Church. He aided leaders through the Council of Trent and much-needed reform by making an example of his own life – giving his money to charity, denying himself all luxury, and imposing severe penances upon himself. During the plague and famine of 1576, Borromeo tried to feed 60,000 to 70,000 people daily. To do this, he borrowed large sums of money that required years to repay. Whereas Milan’s civil authorities fled at the height of the plague, he stayed in the city, ministering to the sick and the dying. This year consider celebrating the Nov. 4 feast day with parishioners at St. Charles Borromeo Church in Morganton as they host a food festival and celebration in honor of their patron. Visit: www.saintcharlesborromeo.org for more information.

2 Pray for the synod STAFF EDITOR: Spencer K. M. Brown 704-808-4528, skmbrown@charlottediocese.org ADVERTISING MANAGER: Kevin Eagan 704-370-3332, keeagan@charlottediocese.org HISPANIC MEDIA MANAGER: César Hurtado 704-370-3375, rchurtado@charlottediocese.org MULTIMEDIA DESIGNER: David Puckett 704-808-4521, dwpuckett@charlottediocese.org EDITORIAL TEAM: Kimberly Bender 704-370-3394, kdbender@charlottediocese.org Annie Ferguson 704-370-3404, arferguson@charlottediocese.org Troy C. Hull 704-370-3288, tchull@charlottediocese.org Christina Knauss, 704-370-0783, clknauss@charlottediocese.org COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT/CIRCULATION: Erika Robinson 704-370-3333, catholicnews@charlottediocese.org COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR: Liz Chandler 704-370-3336, lchandler@charlottediocese.org ASSISTANT COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR: Patricia L. Guilfoyle 704-370-3334, plguilfoyle@charlottediocese.org

St. Charles Borromeo is the patron of bishops, cardinals, seminarians, and spiritual leaders. He dedicated his life to the poor and to the Church, helping steer leaders away from evil and back to Christ. As Catholic leaders of the Church today meet during the month of October to discuss the Synod on Synodality, one of the largest gatherings of Church leaders since the Second Vatican Council, pray for St. Charles Borromeo’s intercession and guidance of the Church by reciting his prayer: “Almighty God, you have generously made known to human beings the mysteries of your life through Jesus Christ your Son in the Holy Spirit. Enlighten my mind to know these mysteries which your Church treasures and teaches. Move my heart to love them and my will to live in accord with them. Amen.”

3 Bake up a spooky dessert Although the Hallowtide feasts of All Hallows’ Eve (Oct. 31), All Saints Day (Nov. 1), and All Souls’ Day (Nov. 2) can seem rather bleak at first, these holy days are actually celebrations of life and reminders of God’s triumph over sin and death.

Consider upping the celebrations this year by making Ossi dei Morti – “Bones of the Dead” – in honor of Italian St. Charles Borromeo. These legendary Italian almond butter cookies are traditionally eaten on All Saints and All Souls Day. Try the recipe at www.savoringitaly.com.

Scan the QR code for this week’s recommended recipes, crafts and activities:

— Spencer K.M. Brown

THE CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD is published by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte 26 times a year.

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Diocesan calendar of events ESPAÑOL HORA SANTA: 7-8 p.m. Todos los jueves del mes con excepción de los primeros jueves. En la Capilla del segundo piso, Family Life Center en St. Patrick, 1621 Dilworth Road East, Charlotte.

SUPPORT GROUPS RACHEL RETREAT ‘HEALING AFTER ABORTION’: Are you or a loved one seeking healing from the effects of a past abortion?

Find healing and support in a confidential, non-judgmental environment at a Rachel Retreat weekend. These retreats are offered by the Diocese of Charlotte’s Family Life Office for men and women, in English and Spanish. Upcoming retreats, in English and Spanish, are planned Nov. 3-5 in the Asheville area. To

register, contact Jessica Grabowski at JRGrabowski@rcdoc.org or 704-370-3229.

WORKSHOPS OVERVIEW OF MEDICARE BASICS WITH AN EMPHASIS ON OPEN ENROLLMENT: 10-11:30 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 16, St. Matthew Church, 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy., Charlotte. New to Medicare?

Learn the basics, including eligibility requirements, when to sign up, how much it costs, and what it covers. Vickie Blevins, executive director of the Catawba County Council on Aging, presents free, unbiased, accurate information. Hosted by the Elder Ministry program of Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte. For details, contact Sandra Breakfield at 704-370-3220.

Bishop Peter J. Jugis will participate in the following events: OCT. 29 – 2:30 P.M. Catholic Heritage Society Mass St. Patrick Cathedral, Charlotte

Our faith

October 27, 2023 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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St. Martin de Porres, ‘saint of the broom’ Feast day: Nov. 3

Pope Francis

S

t. Martin de Porres was born in Lima, Peru, on Dec. 9, 1579, the son of Spaniard Juan de Porres and a freed black slave from Panama, Ana Velasquez.

Being of mixed race, Martin was of a lower social caste, though his father looked out for him and made sure the boy was apprenticed in a good trade.

Martin studied to be a barber, which at that time meant that he also learned medicine. He became very well known for his compassion and skill as a barber, and he cared for many people as well as animals.

Under Peruvian law, descendants of Africans and Native Americans were barred from becoming full members of religious orders. The only route open to the faith-filled boy was to ask the Dominicans of Holy Rosary Priory in Lima to accept him as a “donado,” a volunteer who performed menial tasks in the monastery in return for the privilege of wearing the habit and living with the religious community.

At the age of 15, he asked for admission to the monastery and was received first as a servant boy. As his duties grew, he was promoted to almoner. He later took on kitchen work, laundry and cleaning. After eight years, the prior of the monastery decided to ignore the law and permitted Martin to take vows as a Third Order Dominican, which meant he was a layman associated with the order, living at the monastery. Not everyone at the monastery accepted Martin, however, and he was verbally abused as a “mulatto dog” and mocked.

When Martin was 24, he was allowed to profess religious vows as a Dominican lay brother. He is said to have several times refused this elevation in status, which may have come about due to his father’s intervention, and he never became a priest.

It is said that when his monastery was in debt, he implored them: “I am only a poor mulatto, sell me.”

Martin’s prayer life was intense, and he practiced many mortifications. He was known to levitate in ecstasy in front of the altar, but he also subjected himself to many severe penances. He was considered to be very wise, and many people sought out his advice and intercession.

He was noted for his work on behalf of the poor, establishing an orphanage and a children’s hospital. He maintained an austere lifestyle, which included fasting

God wants people to praise Him in their own language

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and abstaining from meat. Among the many miracles attributed to him besides levitation were bilocation, miraculous knowledge, instantaneous cures and an ability to communicate with animals.

He ministered both to Spanish nobles and to slaves brought from Africa, curing the sick and often bringing in the sick to his own bed in the monastery when there was no room in the infirmary. One day he found a poor Indian on the street, bleeding to death from a dagger wound, and took him to his room. When he heard of this, the prior reprimanded him. Martin replied, “Forgive my error, and please instruct me, for I did not know that the

precept of obedience took precedence over that of charity.” The prior gave him liberty thereafter to follow his inspirations in the exercise of mercy.

He died aged 59 on Nov. 3, 1639, and though an investigation of his life proceeded rapidly after his death, his candidacy for canonization was delayed for more than 300 years due to a series of delays, natural disasters and shipwrecks.

He was finally canonized in 1962 by Pope John XXIII. He is the patron saint of mixed-race people, barbers, innkeepers, public health workers, and all those seeking racial harmony.

— Catholic News Agency

NOV. 5-11 Sunday: Malachi 1:14b-2:2b, 8-10, 1 Thessalonians 2:7b-9, 13, Matthew 23:1-12; Monday: Romans 11:29-36, Luke 14:12-14; Tuesday: Romans 12:5-16b, Luke 14:15-24; Wednesday: Romans 13:8-10, Luke 14:25-33; Thursday (The Dedication of the Lateran Basilica): Ezekiel 47:1-2, 8-9, 12, 1 Corinthians 3:9c-11, 16-17, John 2:13-22; Friday (St. Leo the Great): Romans 15:14-21, Luke 16:1-8; Saturday (St. Martin of Tours): Romans 16:3-9, 16, 22-27, Luke 16:9-15

NOV. 12-18 Sunday: Wisdom 6:12-16, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Matthew 25:1-13; Monday (St. Frances Xavier Cabrini): Wisdom 1:1-7, Luke 17:1-6; Tuesday: Wisdom 2:23-3:9, Luke 17:7-10; Wednesday (St. Albert the Great): Wisdom 6:1-11, Luke 17:11-19; Thursday (St. Margaret of Scotland, St. Gertrude): Wisdom 7:22b8:1, Luke 17:20-25; Friday (St. Elizabeth of Hungary): Wisdom 13:1-9, Luke 17:26-37; Saturday (The Dedication of the Basilicas of Sts. Peter and Paul, St. Rose Philippine Duchesne): Wisdom 18:14-16, 19:6-9, Luke 18:1-8

Daily Scripture readings OCT. 29-NOV. 4 Sunday: Exodus 22:20-26, 1 Thessalonians 1:5c-10, Matthew 22:34-40; Monday: Romans 8:12-17, Luke 13:10-17; Tuesday: Romans 8:1825, Luke 13:18-21; Wednesday (All saints): Revelation 7:2-4, 9-14, 1 John 3:1-3, Matthew 5:1-12a; Thursday (All Souls’ Day): Wisdom 3:1-9, Romans 5:5-11, John 6:37-40; Friday (St. Martin de Porres): Romans 9:1-5, Luke 14:1-6; Saturday (St. Charles Borromeo): Romans 11:1-2a, 11-12, 25-29, Luke 14:1, 7-11

ince the Gospel message touches every aspect of a person’s life, it must be proclaimed in a way people can understand, Pope Francis said.

At his weekly general audience Oct. 25, the pope looked at the lives of Sts. Cyril and Methodius, two brothers from 9th century Greece who became missionaries in Europe. St. John Paul II named them co-patrons of Europe and wrote the encyclical “Slavorum Apostoli” (“The Apostles of the Slavs”) about them.

The region included various peoples and cultures, and “their prince asked for a teacher to explain the Christian faith in their language,” which lacked an alphabet. The saints’ first task, therefore, was “to study the culture of those peoples in depth” since faith should always be inculturated and culture be evangelized.

St. Cyril invented the Glagolitic alphabet so he could translate the Bible and liturgical texts and, soon, “people felt that the Christian faith was no longer ‘foreign’” and “became their faith, spoken in their mother tongue.”

“Just think: two Greek monks giving an alphabet to the Slavs. It is this openness of heart that rooted the Gospel among them.

These two were not afraid, they were courageous,” the pope said.

However, he said, “some opposition emerged on the part of some Latins, who saw themselves deprived of their monopoly on preaching to the Slavs. That is the battle inside the Church; it’s always like this, isn’t it?”

“Their objection was religious, but only in appearance: God can be praised, they said, only in the three languages written on the cross: Hebrew, Greek and Latin,” the pope said, underlining that “they were closedminded to defend their own autonomy.”

But, he said, St. Cyril insisted that “God wants every people to praise Him in their own language” and, with his brother St. Methodius, they appealed to the pope who approved their liturgical texts in the Slavic language. “The Word of God was not shackled and (it) spread throughout those peoples.”

Pope Francis summarized the three important characteristics of the two saints: unity, inculturation and freedom.

Proclaiming the Gospel requires freedom, the pope said, “but freedom needs courage. A person is free the more courageous they are and do not let themselves be chained to the many things that take away their freedom.”

Pope Francis invited everyone to pray “that we may be instruments of ‘freedom in charity’ for others, to be creative, constant and humble with prayer and with serving others.”

Our diocese 4

catholicnewsherald.com | October 27, 2023 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

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In Brief

Foundation wins national award ORLANDO, Fla. — The Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte Foundation was recognized as the second-most effective Total Foundation Effort for its marketing strategies among 189 dioceses at the International Catholic Stewardship Conference held earlier this month. Pictured accepting the award from Margaret Keightley, ICSC board president (far left), and Bishop Donald Hanchen, episcopal moderator (far right), are Jim Kelley, Gina Rhodes and Jacki McCarthy of the diocese’s foundation team.

— Catholic News Herald

St. Joan of Arc parishioners collect food, raise funds for pets CANDLER — The Western Region Office of Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte received generous support from St. Joan of Arc parishioners during a pet food drive Oct. 14 and 15. Total donations exceeded $2,000 worth of pet food, toys, treats and litter, and $234 in cash donations. These donations will be distributed through Catholic Charities’ weekly food pantry in Asheville on Wednesdays. The Asheville food pantry serves approximately 40 families each week with food and non-food items such as diapers, toiletries and pet food.

Catholic Charities will also distribute these collected items at their two monthly distribution events in conjunction with MANNA FoodBank.

“Thanks to the church staff and Father Dean Cesa for helping us make this drive possible,” said Jesse Boeckermann, director of Catholic Charities’ Western Region Office. “And thanks especially to the Catholic Daughters and the Knights of Columbus for all their work to make this pet food drive a great success.”

— Catholic News Herald

Blankets collected for children KERNERSVILLE — Holy Cross Columbiettes 8509 recently collected and delivered 118 children’s blankets to comfort young patients in need at Brenner’s Children’s Hospital in WinstonSalem. Pictured is Sandra Kempka, president, and Committee Chair Rose Shetzley. This project was a part of Children’s Blankets of Love, a nonprofit founded in 2018.

— Patricia Dmuchowski IN BRIEF, SEE PAGE 10

PHOTOS BY TROY HULL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

The Knights of Peter Claver Chapter 411 and the Ladies Auxiliary were formally inaugurated on Oct. 15, the first in the Diocese of Charlotte. The Catholic fraternal service order is based out of Our Lady of Consolation Church, an historically Black parish in Charlotte.

Knights of Peter Claver establishes first chapter in the Diocese of Charlotte domestic violence, and racism.

Young people aged 7-18 can join the organization’s junior divisions, CHARLOTTE — Men wearing blue which offer faith formation, leadership fezzes and a long line of women in white development and scholarships. filed into Our Lady of Consolation Church Members of the order who moved to on Oct. 15, on their way to make history.

Charlotte first suggested the idea of a They were celebrating the chapter here, Jones said. Several inauguration of a chapter of local residents had joined chapters the Knights of Peter Claver in other cities because there wasn’t and Ladies Auxiliary – the first one here for them. The effort to in the Diocese of Charlotte. bring the order to the Charlotte The Catholic fraternal area picked up about 15 years ago service order is based out of and took off as interest grew.

Our Lady of Consolation, an Mary Adams, a member of Our historically African American Lady of Consolation Parish, was parish in Charlotte. born and raised in New Orleans “It has taken a 30-year effort and joined the Christ the King to get to Charlotte and make Court of the Ladies Auxiliary you part of the Knights of there in 2011. She kept up her Peter Claver family,” Grant membership after moving to Jones, the organization’s Charlotte and has been appointed New Orleans-based executive area deputy for Ladies Auxiliary director, told a large crowd at 411 in Charlotte. the 11 a.m. Mass offered in the “I am so proud and excited to parish’s Family Life Center. have the Ladies Auxiliary here at The Knights of Peter Claver last,” she said. “They are like my was founded in 1909 by four The Knights of Peter Claver and the Ladies Auxiliary offer social and family at large. The unity we have Josephite priests and three charitable activities for members and support a wide variety of social justice and the friendships we form make laymen from the Diocese of causes throughout the community. this organization special.”

Mobile, Ala., who wanted to Adams shared the day with form a Catholic fraternal order Sabrera Pepin of New Orleans, to serve the African American who serves as Grand Lady there and community. The Church’s other fraternal “This is a truly historic event for the was the person who first asked her to join orders in the United States at the time Ladies because this is not something we the organization. Both women also enjoy a did not allow Black members. The order do every day,” LeBlanc said. “We’re here long family history, with five generations expanded to include the Ladies Auxiliary to expand the glory of God by spreading belonging to the Knights and Ladies in 1926 and is now based in New Orleans. the Catholic presence here in Charlotte.”

Auxiliary.

Named for a 17th-century Spanish Jesuit The Knights of Peter Claver and “Our members are like a family, and priest who ministered to enslaved people, the Ladies Auxiliary offer social and we offer something for the entire family,” the organization now has more than 400 charitable activities for members and Pepin said. “Husbands, wives, sons and chapters in the U.S. and one in Colombia. support a wide variety of social justice daughters can all belong and take part There is currently one other North causes, including criminal justice reform in the Knights of Peter Claver activities Carolina chapter in the Diocese of Raleigh. and the battles to end human trafficking, together.”

CHRISTINA LEE KNAUSS clknauss@charlottediocese.org

Micaela LeBlanc, Supreme Lady of the national Ladies Auxiliary, traveled from the Archdiocese of Los Angeles for the event, and more than 40 other Auxiliary members from nine states, including South Carolina, Florida, Arizona and Alabama, also attended.

October 27, 2023 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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‘It is a joy to serve the Lord here in the Diocese of Charlotte’ Bishop Jugis celebrates Mass of Thanksgiving in honor of his 20th anniversary CHRISTINA LEE KNAUSS clknauss@charlottediocese.org

CHARLOTTE — Bishop Peter Jugis quietly celebrated the 20th anniversary of his episcopal ordination Tuesday with a Mass of Thanksgiving that included a homily centered around one of his favorite topics: the importance of the Eucharist. About 30 people were happily surprised to see Bishop Jugis as he observed this milestone by offering the usual daily Mass Oct. 24 at St. Patrick Cathedral. Mass was celebrated in the temporary chapel at St. Patrick Cathedral’s Family Life Center due to construction work inside the cathedral.

The bishop led his homily with facts about St. Anthony Mary Claret, a 19thcentury Spanish bishop who became a missionary and is known for evangelizing in Cuba. The saint’s feast day is Oct. 24, the same day as Bishop Jugis’ anniversary, and they also share the same motto: “Caritas Christi Urget Nos” (“The Love of Christ Impels Us”).

“He spent his life sharing the Good News, teaching, preaching and writing so Catholics would understand what they believe,” Bishop Jugis said. “What was the secret of his apostolate? The Eucharist

– the belief that Christ is present in the Eucharist – was the powerhouse of his spirituality. Wherever there is a great devotion to the Eucharist, great things will happen. It is the source and summit of our Christian faith.”

Promoting devotion to the Eucharist has been at the heart of Bishop Jugis’ tenure as leader of the diocese, and he credits faith in the Eucharist as key to the exponential growth the diocese is experiencing, he said. More than 530,000 Catholics now call the Charlotte diocese home – more than double what the population was in 2003 when then-Father Jugis was ordained the fourth Bishop of Charlotte. The diocese’s 92 parishes and missions, 20 schools, vocations program, and 50-plus charitable ministries are flourishing.

“You can see what our devotion to the Eucharist has brought to the diocese,” Bishop Jugis said. “Our parishes are strong, with good Mass attendance. Our schools are flourishing, Catholic Charities is expanding, more parishes are starting Eucharistic Adoration chapels, the vocations program is growing, and the annual Eucharistic Congress is flourishing.

Our spiritual vitality comes from the true source: Christ’s Real Presence in the

TROY HULL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

In honor of his 20th anniversary, Bishop Peter Jugis celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving during the regular daily Mass on Oct. 24 in the temporary chapel at St. Patrick Cathedral’s Family Life Center.

Eucharist.”

At the end of the liturgy, Bishop Jugis thanked the people who attended the Mass with him.

“It is a joy to serve the Lord here in the

Diocese of Charlotte,” he said. “Remember that everything – all that we have and all that we do – is a gift from a loving God.” MASS, SEE PAGE 28

Patience and love

Longtime couples celebrate, share secrets of successful marriage CHRISTINA LEE KNAUSS clknauss@charlottediocese.org

TROY HULL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Fernando and Martha Lucia Gutiérrez, celebrating 50 years of marriage this year, carry the offertory gifts to Bishop Jugis during the annual Wedding Anniversary Mass Oct. 22 at St. Patrick Cathedral.

CHARLOTTE — Larry and Carolyn Keith of Charlotte have celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at two different St. Patrick’s cathedrals this year – first in July in New York City and then on Sunday, when they joined couples from around the Diocese of Charlotte at St. Patrick Cathedral for the annual Wedding Anniversary Mass.

The Mass offered by Bishop Peter Jugis gave couples celebrating 25 and 50 years of marriage a chance to renew their commitment to each other and receive a special blessing for the future of their marriages.

The event drew couples of all ages, many with children and others with family members and friends. Couples held hands and looked into each others’ eyes often during the Mass.

“We honor you for the witness of your love for each other and your faithfulness to the marriage covenant,” Bishop Jugis told couples during his homily. “The readings today are a reflection of the fact that men and women were created for one another, and that God was the author of marriage. It was part of His plan from the beginning. Whoever remains in love remains in God, and the love of men and women in marriage is the image of God’s love for all of us.”

The readings for the liturgy celebrated the unique nature of marriage. They included Genesis 2:18-24, which describes the creation of a woman as a partner for Adam and the verse, “It is not good for the man to be alone.” The second reading, from Corinthians, includes a description of the special nature of love and the famous verse “Love never fails” (1 Corinthians 13:8).

The Gospel from John told the story of Jesus attending the wedding feast at Cana, when Jesus – with His mother Mary and His disciples in attendance – turned water into wine so the celebration could continue.

Bishop Jugis said the celebration of milestone

anniversaries is important because it honors the fact that the couples “have made a special place for the Lord in your married lives.”

“God is present in your marriages, working miracles of love and mercy, holiness and goodness,” he said.

After his homily, Bishop Jugis led the couples in a special Renewal of Commitment.

“Help us, we pray, to remain faithful in our love for one another, so that we may be true witnesses to the covenant You have made with humankind,” the couples prayed to God together.

After the Mass, the couples waited in line for a chance to have a photo made with the bishop and then attend a special reception. As they waited, many laughed and joked with other couples.

The Keiths, members of St. Matthew Parish in Charlotte, experienced a special way to continue their celebration of 50 years together, their actual anniversary being July 28. The couple was originally married in Garden City, N.Y., and have four children and six grandchildren.

The key to their long and happy marriage?

“Patience, patience, patience,” Larry Keith said, his wife nodding in agreement. “And everything in that verse that was read at Mass today from 1 Corinthians is true.

That Scripture was read at our marriage and is perfect advice if you can live it.”

“For a successful marriage, you need to be willing to bend with what the times bring you,” Carolyn Keith added.

Chris and Lynn Frank, members of Sacred Heart Parish in Salisbury, said the Mass was a great way to observe their 25th anniversary. Lynn Frank said the event was doubly special because both the second reading and the Gospel were the same ones featured at their wedding 25 years ago in Indiana. They now have four sons aged 14 to 22.

“This was a beautiful Mass,” Chris Frank said. “And a great way to reflect on our marriage.”

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catholicnewsherald.com | October 27, 2023 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Together in Holiness conference for married couples coming Nov. 18 CHRISTINA LEE KNAUSS clknauss@charlottediocese.org

CHARLOTTE — Couples can learn about the Church’s vision of marriage and how to incorporate holiness into their relationships and families at an event coming to the Diocese of Charlotte in midNovember.

The 5th annual Together in Holiness marriage conference will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Nov. 18 at two locations to better serve couples and families across the diocese. Couples can register to attend at either St. Barnabas Church in Arden or St. Ann Church in Charlotte. The event is presented by the diocesan Office of Family Life in partnership with the St. John Paul II Foundation.

This year’s theme is “Family, a School of Virtue,” and will feature national speakers Danielle Bean and Mario Sacasa, a licensed marriage and family therapist with a Charlotte practice. The day also includes access to the sacraments, Mass and a marriage blessing.

“I encourage all married and engaged couples to attend this conference so you may learn how to live a life of virtue within your own domestic church,” wrote Bishop Peter J. Jugis in a statement about the conference.

This is the fifth Together in Holiness event in the diocese, and attendance and interest have grown annually, said Ellen Santoro, senior conference coordinator and team leader.

“In the Church we do a lot of marriage prep for couples that are engaged or about to get married, but we don’t see a lot of enrichment past that point,” Santoro said. “What makes Together in Holiness unique is that it is built for couples at any stage, whether they’re engaged or have been married for more than 30 years. It encourages them to come together and spend intentional time together for the day.”

The 2022 event in Charlotte drew 142 registrants from 29 parishes across the diocese. Surveys showed 96% of participants agreed they had learned something that would help them build or strengthen their marriage or family, and all said they “felt more inspired to grow in holiness with their spouse.”

“This is a must-attend event for married couples,” one participant wrote. “We can sometimes take the Sacrament of Marriage for granted, however, this conference is a great reminder of the fruits of a marriage in the Church when we embrace it for the way God intended it for our lives.”

Make plans to attend To learn more or to register for the Nov. 18 event, go online to www.forlifeandfamily.org/ events/th23-cnc. The cost is $64 per couple or $40 per individual. On-site childcare will be available for $5 per child. Full and partial scholarship opportunities are available.

More than 300 Our Lady of Guadalupe parishioners processed in a centuries-old Peruvian devotion to the Lord of Miracles on Oct. 14, a solemn feast day celebrated around the world.

CÉSAR HURTADO | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Hispanic community honors Lord of Miracles in annual procession CÉSAR HURTADO rchurtado@charlottediocese.org

CHARLOTTE — More than 300 men and women clad in purple robes and white ropes participated in Mass and a procession carrying a replica of the Lord of the Miracles painting in a centuries-old Peruvian devotion celebrated around the world in October.

On Oct. 14, members of the South Charlotte Brotherhood of the Lord of Miracles worked diligently outside Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Charlotte, finalizing details of the heavy platform that carries a replica of the sacred image of “Cristo Moreno” – “The Brown Christ” – in the procession.

The Lord of the Miracles is an image painted during the 17th century by an African taken from Angola to Peru as a slave. In the image, Christ is depicted on the cross, with the Holy Spirit and God the Father above, and flanked by the Virgin Mary and Mary Magdalene. The name originated after earthquakes in 1655, 1687, and 1746 destroyed most of the city of Lima, leaving only the mural standing. This miraculous occurrence gave rise to the devotion and annual celebration.

Father Blas Lemos, parochial vicar, celebrated Mass to begin the event.

In his homily, Father Lemos, who wore a purple chasuble with the image of the Christ, referred to the weekend’s Gospel from Matthew, saying, “The Lord, King of Kings, our greatest joy and happiness, after being rejected by the important people, opened the doors of His wedding feast to everyone, as long as we wear our wedding garments, the suit with the necessary attitude, the suit of grace and freedom.”

That feast, he added, “is the feast of salvation. That is why, today, as we celebrate the Lord of Miracles, we ask Him to grant us the miracle of wearing the garment of grace, freedom, love, peace, and fidelity, in order to be authentic Christian members of the Church.”

At the end of the Mass, Jaime Hurtado, a native Colombian and member of the brotherhood, was invited to say a few words to the audience about the feast day. Hurtado said he was invited to join in the brotherhood five years ago and found “that there

are no differences between countries, that we are one in the Lord.”

After Mass, Father Lemos blessed the image and the members of the brotherhood, and even helped carry the giant platform on his shoulders during the procession.

A band of professional musicians from Maryland, specially hired by the brotherhood, took their place behind the sacred image, and under the sounds of the traditional hymn of the Lord of Miracles, the processional route began with a cloud of incense rising skyward with prayers of thanksgiving.

During the procession, parishioners paid homage to the holy image with songs, flowers and dances. At various stops on the route, parents brought their children closer to receive the Lord’s blessing, raising their them into the air before the image of Our Lord.

Lourdes Hoxit, a member of the brotherhood at St. Mary Magdalene Church in Simpsonville, S.C., said they gladly participate in the Charlotte procession every year.

“The most beautiful thing is the opportunity that God gives us to be close to Peru with this beautiful tradition. Together with brothers of many nationalities, we are present with the Lord of Miracles,” she said.

“This is the Lord of Miracles of all, a Christ who is the patron saint of all immigrants. It is our Christ who is alive and who through this veneration receives all our love and gratitude. This is more than a brotherhood; there are no borders for the ‘Cristo Morado.’”

Hebert and Cindy Tixe, Peruvians living in Charlotte, said they have been attending the procession for three years. They were accompanied by Hebert’s mother, Rosario Ugarte, who was in a wheelchair. “I have always been devoted to the Lord of Miracles,” she said, but her devotion increased when one of her daughters emigrated to the US. “I begged Him to take care of her for me, to keep her safe. And He did. Everything is possible for Him.”

More online At www.facebook.com/CNHEspañol: Watch a video and see more photos from the annual Lord of Miracles procession.

October 27, 2023 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

Diocese reaches milestone of 350 endowments Director of planned giving lives out calling ANNIE FERGUSON arferguson@charlottediocese.org

CHARLOTTE — Stewardship is a way of life for Gina Rhodes. She and Jim Kelley of the diocese’s development office have worked for many years with generous donors to establish endowments that help support the diocese’s churches, schools, agencies and other organizations – and through God’s grace, they have become quite good at it.

Recently, Kelley and Rhodes sensed that the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte Foundation was getting close to another milestone number, so Rhodes – the director of planned giving for the diocese – decided to count the endowments. When she reached 350, she saw a familiar name next to the St. Luke Catholic Church Endowment Fund – her own.

“We didn’t even realize it until we were actually counting to see if we had reached 350, and I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, I can’t believe that the St. Luke Catholic Church Endowment is the 350th. How cool is that?’

I was totally caught off guard in that moment,” she recalls. “I feel really blessed that the endowment my husband Adam and I established is the 350th.”

The couple established the endowment at their Mint Hill parish of 20-plus years as a general purpose fund in memory of Gina’s parents, Jewel and Gus Giustozzi. Rhodes says she hopes that, once other St. Luke parishioners learn about the endowment, they will want to add to it.

“We wanted the church endowment because St. Luke didn’t have one for general parish needs. We know in the future that they are going to have needs that might not have been part of the budget,” she says.

“Adam and I plan to continue to support it, and hopefully other people in the parish will start seeing the benefits of it in the income stream, forever.”

The diocese’s 350 endowments have assets of more than $81 million, thanks to generous donors contributing amounts large and small over 29 years to The Diocese of Charlotte Foundation. The diocese reached 300 endowments just two years ago.

Established in 1994, the foundation offers

Rhodes

the same time generating an increasing amount of income for a school or ministry or parish,” says Kelley, diocesan development director.

Over the past 29 years, the foundation has distributed more than $15 million through its endowments to help support the diocese and its parishes, schools and ministries.

‘I feel blessed every day to help the parishioners in the Diocese of Charlotte to consider ways to remember the Church in perpetuity...’

a means for people and organizations to provide long-term financial stability for the diocese and its more than 150 organizations and ministries.

An endowment is a permanent fund, the principal of which is invested – not spent – that generates income to help pay for projects and programs specified by the donor. Endowments are tax deductible and help sustain the strength and viability of the diocese and its entities, paying for capital improvements, charitable outreach, education and parish operations.

The foundation makes available annually 5 percent of an endowment’s value (averaged over three years). It reports to endowment holders every quarter outlining the latest value and how much is available for distribution for its prescribed purpose – which can be very specific or more general, giving recipients the leeway to decide how the funding can help them most.

“The benefit of an endowment is that its principal continues to grow while at

“I feel blessed every day to help the parishioners in the Diocese of Charlotte to consider ways to remember the Church in perpetuity through endowments, through bequests and through other planned-giving vehicles,” Rhodes says. “This is part of what Scripture tells us, and I’m happy to be able to live it every day.”

Create an endowment You can establish an endowment in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte Foundation by leaving a bequest in a will, a beneficiary designation from a retirement plan, a gift of real estate or life insurance, cash or securities, or a life income arrangement such as a trust or annuity. For details, contact Gina Rhodes at 704370-3364 or gmrhodes@charlottediocese.org.

Diocesan Catechetical Conference to be held Nov. 11 ANNIE FERGUSON arferguson@charlottediocese.org

WINSTON-SALEM — Following a record attendance of 700 in 2022, catechists and all who teach the faith are invited to attend the Diocesan Catechetical Conference at the Benton Convention Center in Winston-Salem on Nov. 11. To coincide with this year’s Eucharistic Congress, the conference theme is “I Am With You Always.”

The one-day event starts at 8 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m. Keynote presentations in English and Spanish will begin at 9:15. Scott Sollom, Ph.D., from Franciscan University, will present “The Holy Eucharist: Flesh for the Life of the World.”

Father Julio Domínguez, the diocese’s vicar for Hispanic ministry, will present “Cómo Integrar Las Prioridades del Obispo Jugis a La Pastoral.”

A breakout session featuring a variety of topics will follow the keynote addresses. Then, Father Domínguez will offer Mass at 11:15 a.m. Lunch and two more breakout sessions will round out the day.

Publishing vendors, such as Our Sunday Visitor, St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology, Sophia Institute Press, and Sadlier, will sell catechetical materials.

“The biggest draw for attendees is that we’re bringing in catechists and parish catechetical leaders from all over the diocese,” said Chris Beal,

director of faith formation for the diocese. “It gives them an opportunity not only to hear great dynamic speakers both nationally and locally but also to come together and learn from one another.”

The third breakout session will include group sharing about best practices, practical takeaways, and challenges and successes in the classrooms and beyond. In this session, parishes that have similarsize faith formation programs will meet and discuss these topics, drawing on the community, Beal says.

Other talks include “Devotion and Discipleship”

by Deacon Matthew Newsome; “Gender Ideology & Christian Anthropology” by Theresa Farnan, Ph.D.; “Forming a Life of Prayer” by Father Joseph Wasswa; and “Catholic Identity” by Steve Bodsford.

Talks titled “Discípulos digitales latinos en el mundo moderno;¡técnicas e ideas!” and “Modelos de inclusión familiar: ¡papás activos en la catequesis!”

by Gerardo Salazar are among the highlights in the Spanish track. Many other topics will be covered, including youth ministry, encouraging faith in families, and OCIA (formerly known as RCIA).

Conference check-in begins at 8 a.m., and the last breakout session ends at 4 p.m. For more information and to register, go online to www. charlottediocese.org.

Questions? Call the Education Vicariate Office at 704-370-3244.

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Pray for vocations this November CHARLOTTE — This Nov. 5-11 marks the annual celebration of National Vocations Awareness Week across the United States. The annual celebration is dedicated to promoting vocations of priests, deacons and consecrated men and women religious (nuns and brothers) through prayer and education, and to renewing our prayers and support for those who are considering one of these particular vocations.

Currently, the Diocese of Charlotte has 51 seminarians discerning a call to the priesthood.

National Vocations Awareness Week began in 1976 when the U.S. bishops designated the 28th Sunday of the year for special recognition of those discerning vocations.

In 1997, this celebration was moved to coincide with the feast of the Baptism of the Lord, which fell on Jan. 13 in 2013. Beginning in 2014, National Vocations Awareness Week was moved to the first full week of November.

For more information, visit www. usccb.org/vocations.

— Spencer K.M. Brown

Prayer for vocations God our Father, we thank You for calling men and women to serve in Your Son’s Kingdom as priests, deacons and consecrated persons.

Send Your Holy Spirit to help others to respond generously and courageously to Your call.

May our community of faith support vocations of sacrificial love in our youth and young adults. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever.

Amen.

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catholicnewsherald.com | October 27, 2023 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Guadalupana torch coming to Charlotte Nov. 7 CÉSAR HURTADO rchurtado@charlottediocese.org

CHARLOTTE — The 21st annual Guadalupana Torch Race, which runs from Mexico to New York, will pass through the Diocese of Charlotte on Tuesday, Nov. 7 – visiting six parishes in six days in six communities for thousands of people to experience this transnational Marian devotion.

A caravan of runners carrying a flame of unity, accompanied by large paintings of Our Lady of Guadalupe and St. Juan Diego, will arrive about 6 p.m. to Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Charlotte.

The runners will be coming from stops in upstate South Carolina – part of a long line of torch bearers and caravans since the procession stepped off Sept. 2 in Mexico City, after a Mass in honor of Mary at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Alejandro Altamirano, local organizer of the race for the past 13 years, said there are more than 7,000 runners who prayerfully and lovingly carry the torch this time every year through nine Mexican states and 14 U.S. states.

“These messengers carry the torch, symbolizing the unity and dignity of a people divided by a border. They have responded to the call to deepen the faith and to evangelize across the world,” Altamirano said, adding that in his personal case he thanks Our Blessed Mother “for the opportunity to serve her one more year.”

The caravan of the “Morenita del Tepeyac” – “Dark-skinned Madonna” –

CÉSAR HURTADO | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

The Guadalupana Torch, being carried by more than 7,000 runners from nine Mexican states and 14 from the U.S., began its pilgrimage Sept. 2, starting from the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City. The final destination of the torch is Central Park in New York City, where it will arrive on Dec. 12, the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. crossed the U.S.-Mexico border on Friday, Oct. 20. After traveling through Texas, Louisiana and Tennessee, it is expected to arrive in Fultondale, Ala., on Monday.

The diocese’s Guadalupana runners will take over in Grover, S.C., where they will meet up with parishioners from St. Mary Magdalene Parish in Simpsonville.

Together, they will bring the torch to Charlotte.

The torch will then visit the following parishes: St. Francis of Assisi in Mocksville, Divine Redeemer in Boonville, St. Mary’s in Greensboro, Immaculate Heart of Mary in High Point, and Our Lady of the Highways in Thomasville.

On Sunday, Nov. 12, runners will depart from St. Mary’s Church in Greensboro, where other torch bearers will be waiting to carry the flame to Immaculate Conception Church in Durham in the Diocese of Raleigh.

The destination for the caravan of runners is Central Park in New York City on Dec. 12, feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

The light of the torch holds great symbolism for the Hispanic people in the United States, representing the shining light of Our Lady, bearer of hope and love for the poorest and for separated families waiting for immigration reform that can reunite parents, children, and families.

The torch reminds us of Our Lady’s words to St. Juan Diego: “Hear and understand, my least son, do not let anything frighten you or afflict you, let your heart not be troubled. ... Am I not here, I, who am your mother? Aren’t you under my shadow?”

Registration for runners is still open.

Even if the torch is not scheduled to stop at your parish, you can still register to be considered to carry it on the route closest to your home.

To register, consult your parish’s Hispanic Ministry coordinator. You can also text Alejandro Altamirano at 704-9651290.

Got stock?

The Inclusion Rocks Concert has become an annual celebration of music, awareness, and inclusion for children with learning disabilities in Charlotte. We are excited to bring you another unforgettable experience this year! Building upon the tremendous success of our inaugural event, where we raised over $25,000, we are excited to bring you another unforgettable experience to help us reach our goal of $50,000 this year!

Prepare to be blown away by six hours of live music, showcasing the best of Charlotte’s rock scene. Headlining the concert is the sensational Unknown Artist!

Mark your calendars and get ready to rock with us at the Inclusion Rocks Concert. Join us for an evening filled with incredible music, unforgettable moments, and the power of unity. Together, we can make a positive impact and show our community that inclusion really does rock!

Stephen Dey, Executive Director, CCHS Class of 1985 Evan Rizzo, Executive Producer, CCHS Class of 1982

Unlock your potential to make a difference.

Giving appreciated stock to your parish, Catholic school, agency, the diocese or the Foundation creates a gift that will benefit your desired beneficiary and provide you tax benefits.

For more information, go to www.charlottediocese.givingplan.net or call Gina Rhodes at 704/370-3364.

Foundation of the Diocese of Charlotte

October 27, 2023 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

Celebrate World Day of the Poor and support the CCHD collection CHARLOTTE — The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) collection will take place in the Diocese of Charlotte the weekend of Nov. 18-19. The theme of this year’s collection is “Working on the Margins.”

CCHD is the domestic anti-poverty program of the USCCB that seeks to break the cycle of poverty by funding community-based, self-help programs that encourage participation in decision-making at the grassroots level, create jobs, and tackle the root causes of poverty.

Seventy-five percent of the funds collected support the CCHD’s national grant program, while the remaining 25% funds local anti-poverty efforts in the diocese.

Thanks to the grant review work of volunteer members of a CCHD Advisory committee, in 2023 Catholic Charities awarded grants totalling $28,000 to nine non-profit organizations in Charlotte, Forest City, Greensboro, Hickory, Morganton, Salisbury, Wadesboro, and Winston-Salem. Each organization partners in some way with a Catholic parish or entity of the diocese, a partnership that is described in a letter of endorsement for the grant.

One example of local CCHD funding is a grant to support Samaritan Ministries’ Project Cornerstone, which provides housing and programming to men in Winston-Salem seeking recovery from alcohol and drug addictions.

Jan Kelly, executive director of Samaritan Ministries, said, “This gift through CCHD for our Project Cornerstone program gives us the opportunity to see lives changed and for recovery to be a reality.”

For Rowan Helping Ministries in Salisbury, the CCHD grant to its Street Outreach Program helps veterans who are struggling with poverty find a pathway to a home, employment, and many needed services.

Executive Director Kyna Grubb said, “It is an honor to walk alongside people as they work to find pathways home, and we are fortunate to have partners like Catholic Charities and CCHD who are committed to helping our most vulnerable community members reach their full potential.”

The CCHD Collection takes place on or near the Vatican-sponsored World Day of the Poor. Through programs such as CCHD, the U.S. bishops challenge us to remember that almost 38 million people live below the poverty line in the USA, which is about 11.5% of the national population, according to U.S. Census Bureau data.

More information about CCHD and the collection can be found at www.usccb.org/ cchd. Catholic Charities Local CCHD Grant Program applications will be available online at www.ccdoc.org/cchdcrs after Dec. 1.

— Joe Purello

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catholicnewsherald.com | October 27, 2023 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

IN BRIEF FROM PAGE 4

Catholics gather in Charlotte for Rosary Rally for peace CHARLOTTE — To pray for the country’s conversion back to God, more than 50 people attended a local Rosary Rally for Our Nation Oct. 14 at Latta Park Pavilion. The event drew faithful from several parishes across the city as well as St. Patrick Cathedral’s clergy Father Christopher Roux and Father Ernest Nebangongnjoh.

The group, in the presence of a statue of Our Lady of Fatima, prayed the glorious mysteries of the rosary as well as a Litany to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Before the rally, Father Roux gave a brief reflection about the message of Our Lady of Fatima, which included a message of peace, and then read a letter from the Latin Patriarch in Jerusalem that invited all Catholics to pray and fast on Oct. 17 for peace and reconciliation to end the war in the Holy Land.

The rally was organized as part of a national rosary campaign encouraging Catholics to host public rosaries in October, specifically around the 106th anniversary of the final apparition of Fatima.

— Mike FitzGerald, correspondent

Documentary about South Lebanon set for Nov. 2 CHARLOTTE — A special documentary about the region where Christ traveled during his earthly ministry will be shown starting at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 2, at St. Matthew Church.

“In the Footsteps of Christ in South Lebanon” traces the journey of three teachers and nine middle school students who travel from Beirut to South Lebanon (also known as Upper Galilee) – part of an ongoing non-profit project to set aside 75 miles of trails to encourage religious tourism in the impoverished region. The 53-minute movie features English subtitles.

The showing is sponsored by St. Stephen Maronite and St. Matthew parishes, in coordination with the Phoenician Club. The documentary is free, but donations to the trail project are welcome.

— Catholic News Herald

Catherine’s House hosts training CHARLOTTE — In recognition of October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, staff at Catherine’s House took part in domestic violence training provided by the Michigan Coalition Against Homelessness, where they covered information about harm reduction and shared with residents inspirational messages from domestic violence survivors.

Sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, Catherine’s House provides transitional housing and support services for women and children who would otherwise be homeless due to circumstances such as domestic violence, unemployment/underemployment, shortage of affordable housing, unexpected tragedies, or lack of support networks. Learn more online at www.catherineshouseinc.org.

— Catholic News Herald

Young Catholic Professionals launching chapter in Diocese of Charlotte ANNIE FERGUSON arferguson@charlottediocese.org

CHARLOTTE — Catholic professionals in their 20s and 30s will soon have a chance to gather for fellowship, networking, mentoring, spiritual formation, and other enriching opportunities.

A new chapter of Young Catholic Professionals (YCP) is starting in the Diocese of Charlotte. To celebrate, a free launch party will be held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Nov. 16 at Truist Field – home of the Charlotte Knights Minor League Baseball team – amid ‘twinkle lights’ and dramatic views of the city’s skyline.

The event will feature remarks from several Catholic leaders in the diocese and time for networking and mingling as well as free appetizers and a cash bar. Attendees will learn about YCP and network with other young Cubillos professionals.

“Charlotte is one of the fastest growing cities in America, attracting thousands of young professionals each year. Our city features vibrant young adult groups at many of the local parishes, but there can sometimes feel like a gap in opportunities to bring everyone together – specifically in a professional environment,” says Santiago Cubillos, YCP’s Charlotte chapter president.

YCP bridges that gap, he said, by bringing together participants’ professional, social and faith lives.

Young Catholic Professionals of CLT is HERE! Come to our FREE Launch Party November 16th @ Truist Field Register Here

7pm | Drinks & Appetizers

Chapter activities include networking happy hours, an executive speaker series, executive panel discussions, mentorship, a local annual retreat, and the national conference. Some of the benefits to members include spiritual formation with fellow young Catholic workers, personal mentorship from local Catholic executives, and job placement resources and portal.

Cubillos stresses the new chapter is meant to partner with the parishes and ministries in the diocese to inspire young professionals with the beauty of the Catholic faith.

“Young Catholic Professionals aims to bring all these groups together with the mission of growing in our Catholic Faith and inspiring young adults to ‘Work in Witness to Christ’ – the YCP motto,” Cubillos says.

“We want to empower the next generation of Catholic leaders.”

Make plans to attend RSVP for the free Young Catholic Professionals Charlotte Launch Party on Nov. 16, as space is limited to 400. To register, go online to www.youngcatholicprofessionals.org/ chapter/charlotte.

‘Love is Courageous’ MiraVia hosts sold-out banquet featuring actor Jim Caviezel as keynote speaker ANNIE FERGUSON arferguson@charlottediocese.org

CHARLOTTE — Courage, it would seem, is en vogue. It’s certainly been on the rise in the pro-life movement in recent years, and MiraVia’s fundraising banquet displayed this reality perfectly Oct. 21.

The event filled its Charlotte Convention Center space of 1,640 to capacity, and MiraVia is already hoping to find a way to accommodate more attendees next year.

“This was a unique year when we saw our growth exceed capacity, and we are looking at new and creative ways to host the event moving forward,” said Debbie Capen, executive director of MiraVia. The fundraising total is still being calculated, but organizers say this was a record-breaking year with 47 sponsors who made the event a huge success.

Drawn to the bravery of the keynote speaker – actor Jim Caviezel, who played Jesus in Mel Gibson’s “The Passion of the Christ” and Tim Ballard in the recent blockbuster “Sound of Freedom” – attendees of the “Love is Courageous” banquet were ultimately there to celebrate the courage of mothers choosing life for their babies when faced with difficult circumstances as they navigate societal and economic pressures.

“Love is courageous. It’s love that brought us all here tonight,” said Capen in her opening remarks. “It may be the love you have for this mission, it may be the love you have for the friend or family

PHOTO PROVIDED BY MIRAVIA

Actor Jim Caviezel, known for his lead roles in the blockbuster movies “The Passion of the Christ” and “Sound of Freedom,” spoke at MiraVia’s 2023 banquet fundraiser in support of pregnant women in need. member who invited you. Or okay, it might be the love you have for the work of Jim Caviezel. But tonight, we remember that all authentic love comes from God, Who is love, and He brought us together here.”

MiraVia is a nonprofit that runs a residential facility at Belmont Abbey College for pregnant college women and their children as well as an outreach center

in Charlotte that provides material and emotional support, including life skills classes to pregnant mothers.

The residential facility features 15 private living suites, a nursery and playground, dining room, study, laundry rooms, lounge spaces and a chapel.

“This mix of privacy and community allows our student moms to nurture their children, work toward their college degrees and create a sisterhood with each other that forges lifelong friendships,” Capen said.

In September 2022, MiraVia transitioned its outreach center to a larger facility with the goal of serving 25% more women and children. At the banquet, Capen announced that the agency has surpassed this goal, serving 37% more women and children.

In the past year, MiraVia has served 970 mothers and children, distributed 65,818 diapers and 47,350 items of clothing, logged 1,350 hours in a college classroom, and tracked 1,638 volunteer hours.

The evening also celebrated the courage of supporters of this vital cause. One poignant moment was the announcement of the Josie Sanctis Outstanding Service Award, recently renamed for a former board member who passed away at 38 after battling cancer.

Josie’s husband, Andrew Sanctis, presented the award to Mark Kresak, who recruited his company to support MiraVia through improving the grounds and interior of the residential facility.

Kresak went through great lengths over

two years to get approval for the project at his workplace, inspiring many others to support the mission in the process.

“My wife, Josie, loved serving on the board of MiraVia and truly had a passion for the mission,” Sanctis said. “She was a courageous ambassador for MiraVia’s prolife work and spread the message joyfully to all her friends, family and colleagues.

That’s why I know she would have a special appreciation for tonight’s recipient.”

Capen highlighted another milestone – the 10th birthday of the first baby born at the residence for pregnant college students.

“When Bianca Nanje first called us, she had already overcome more adversity in her childhood than most of us will know in a lifetime,” she recalled. “After a difficult childhood, she was navigating the complexities of college life on her own when she suspected she was pregnant.”

When Nanje received a positive pregnancy test, she was handed materials for options on how to proceed. MiraVia was in the mix, and Nanje decided to tour the facility. “Is this for real?” she asked.

That August she had a baby boy, went on to graduate from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, entered the U.S. Army, married, had two daughters, became a second lieutenant, and built her dream home.

“To this day, Bianca credits MiraVia for allowing her to be where she is,” Capen said. “Thanks to her success, and the success of every mom at MiraVia, I think we can safely answer her original question, ‘Yes, we are for real!’”

October 27, 2023 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

Parishioners to gather to celebrate the life of beloved former pastor HAYESVILLE — Family, friends and parishioners of St. William Parish and Immaculate Heart of Mary Mission will come together Wednesday, Nov. 15, to celebrate the life of Father George Kloster. Father Kloster passed away peacefully on his favorite holy day of the year, Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, 2019. Funeral arrangements were delayed due to the ensuing pandemic.

A funeral Mass will be offered at 11 a.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Hayesville by Monsignor Patrick J. Winslow, vicar general and chancellor of the Diocese of Charlotte, and concelebrated by Father Alex Ayala, current pastor of the Murphy and Hayesville churches. A reception will be Kloster held in the Sister Terry Martin Fellowship Hall after Mass.

Father Kloster was born on Oct. 28, 1943, in Utica, N.Y., to George Martin and Helen Currier Kloster. When he was 10, his family moved to Clayton, N.C., where his father was the manager of a textile mill. After graduating from Clayton High School, he attended St. Mary’s College in Kentucky, and later studied theology at the Pontifical North American College in Rome. He was ordained to the priesthood on Dec. 20, 1968, at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

Father Kloster’s service to the people of Western North Carolina spanned some 45 years, and he served as a pastor in seven parishes across

Father Arockiasamy passes away in India

North Carolina. He retired in 2013 after serving as pastor of St. William and Immaculate Heart of Mary for 15 years. In 2018 he celebrated his 50th anniversary of ordination with a celebration well attended by fellow priests, family and friends.

Father Kloster was well known for his charitable work and devotion to ecumenism.

He served on the North Carolina Council of Churches in many areas including as president from 1968 to 1988, and he received its Distinguished Service Award in 1991. He was an advocate for social justice, and he was named Catholic Charities USA Volunteer of the Year in 2013. Also that year, a portion of U.S. Hwy. 64 in western North Carolina was named “Rev. George Kloster Highway” to honor his commitment to church, civic and community affairs in Clay and Cherokee counties. He was active in the Cherokee County Ministerial Association, and he organized many fundraising events such as “Holy Smoke.”

He also led pilgrimages to Israel and throughout Europe, and he traveled with brother priests, parishioners and friends all over the world. He was instrumental in organizing Kloster family reunions, which brought together family and relatives from across the United States including the family’s ancestral village of Gross-Zimmern in Germany.

Father Kloster will forever remain in the hearts of those whose life he touched. His endless contributions knew no boundaries. His priestly life was filled with acts of charity and devotion to service to the community he dearly loved.

— Ferris and Gail Maloof

Arockiasamy

TIRUCHIRAPPALLI, Tamil Nadu, India — Father Francis Xavier Arockiasamy, who formerly served in Highlands and Greensboro, passed away recently in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India. He was 58.

A funeral Mass was offered Sept. 28, 2023, at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Tiruchirappalli, followed by cremation.

Father Arockiasamy was ordained on May 7, 2000, for the Diocese of Tiruchirapalli in Tamil Nadu, India. In the Diocese of Charlotte, he served as chaplain of Bishop McGuinness High School in Kernersville from 2013 to 2014.

In July 2014, he was assigned as parochial administrator of Our Lady of the Mountains in Highlands and St. Jude in Sapphire, until June 2018 when he returned to India.

— Catholic News Herald

Let’s keep talking.

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catholicnewsherald.com | October 27, 2023 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

‘God is the center of all we do’ St. Mark School celebrates 20 years of Catholic education ANNIE FERGUSON arferguson@charlottediocese.org

HUNTERSVILLE — October has been a flurry of activity at St. Mark Catholic School.

To celebrate two decades since its founding in 2003, the school held a blessing and pep rally Oct. 11 to fete the milestone and the freshly painted gym floor. New banners were also added and required updating just days later after championship wins in soccer and cross country.

On Oct. 22, Father John Putnam, pastor of St. Mark Parish, presided over the rededication of the school’s Marian courtyard, which students had recently cleaned and beautified with new plants and flowers. Updates to the courtyard included the installation of artificial turf to create a beautiful area for students to gather and play as well as new flower beds and wall. A celebration followed at the historic Hunter House & Gardens for donors, faculty, staff and clergy members.

Five teachers who have worked at the school since its founding were among the speakers at the celebration. They were Holly Roberts, Stacy Desormeaux, Amy Myers, Taylor Garcia and Carolyn Galante..

“As a teacher I felt honored and appreciated,” Roberts said. “The greatest thing I took away from the celebration is hope. Given today’s world, a faith-based school with loving families and staff is the best gift we can give our children.”

“I am blessed to be a part of this community and so very happy to have been called to this school as their principal,” added Julie Thornley, who is in her fifth year as principal of St. Mark. “I am so very proud of this school and our amazing faculty and staff and for the wonderful families who call St. Mark home.”

Debbie Butler, principal of St. Mark from 2004 to 2019, attended the anniversary celebrations as well. She also was present for the groundbreaking of the school more than

TROY HULL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD, AND PROVIDED BY AMY MIANO

Father Chinonso Nnebe-Agumadu, parochial vicar of St. Mark Parish, cuts the ribbon on the new gym floor at St. Mark School. (Below) Father John Putnam, pastor, Principal Julie Thornley (left) and former PTO President Devika Boulio (right) celebrate St. Mark School’s 20th anniversary Oct. 22.

20 years ago, not knowing she would be asked to take the principal role in St. Mark’s second year in operation.

Butler noted the passion, generosity and hard work of the parents who desired a Catholic school north of Charlotte.

“Parents in Huntersville and Mooresville had been driving their kids all the way to Saint Patrick and Our Lady of the Assumption and so we had to combine those two mindsets of people and make a new school community,” she recalled.

Butler also noted that she saw the school grow from 300 to 400 students to as many as 721 one year and that having such involved families has made the school beautiful.

“The people were just amazing and so welcoming. The Spirit was so alive there.

We all just got in and did a lot of work.

There was so much to be done, including establishing traditions,” the former principal said. “I was blessed to be a part of that community, see that growth, and to be a part

“Get your ducks in a row!”

Estate Planning | Probate WAITING COULD DEVASTATE YOUR FAMILY St. Matthew’s Parishioner

704.843.1446 | www.ncestateplanninginfo.com

6406 Carmel Road, Suite 301 | Charlotte, North Carolina 28226

of the lives of those kids every day.”

When Butler retired from her position as principal in 2019, Thornley took the reins, seeing the school through the pandemic while remaining open, growing the staff, welcoming more students, attending Mass weekly, refreshing the gym, and refinishing the schools’ floors and the Marian Courtyard. She noted that she plans to continue traditions that started 20 years ago such as the Living Rosary, Living Stations of the Cross, annual musical, May Crowning, and Catholic Schools Week basketball and volleyball games.

“As a school, we are incredibly grateful for the blessings of our faith and the freedom to practice it daily as a learning community,” Thornley said. “This is a remarkable faithin-learning environment where God is the center of all that we do. It is my desire that every single alumnus remembers that they are a child of God, and they are on this earth for a special purpose and plan.”

Please pray for the following deacons who died during the month of October: John Gallen 10/26/1996 Frank Aversa 10/2/2005 Pe Nhia Cha Lee 10/17/2018

October 27, 2023 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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Belmont Abbey College receives $9 million in state funding for new performing arts center BELMONT — The N.C. General Assembly has allotted Belmont Abbey College $9 million toward the cost of constructing a new performing arts center.

The funding will enable the college and the surrounding region to enjoy theater, musical and dance performances, and art exhibitions, along with other educational and cultural events in a beautiful, welcoming facility.

“The Performing Arts Center at Belmont Abbey College will greatly enrich the lives of the people in our community,” N.C. Sen. Brad Overcash said in a statement. “I am proud of the $9 million appropriation to create this important community resource.”

State Rep. John Torbett agreed, adding in the statement, “I am extremely proud to be a part of the building of Belmont Abbey College’s success through the building of a world-class cultural destination.

This performing arts center will assist in growing the talents of our youth as well as presenting the talents of professional artists. I am especially honored to have played a part with so many others in support of the Abbey.”

The construction of a fully outfitted performance space aims to be a major economic development agent for Gaston County and provide new opportunities for students and the community alike, a statement from Gaston County officials noted.

County Manager Dr. Kim S. Eagle expressed support for the project, stating, “The new performing arts center would directly connect to the county’s adopted strategic plan by supporting two of our own strategic focus areas: economic development and planned growth, and recreational, cultural, and life-long learning opportunities. Taken together, our community strategic plans and visions would directly benefit from the addition of this community asset and would advance our goals to provide a warm and welcoming community that is the premier destination to live, work, and play in the Charlotte region.”

The performing arts center is part of Belmont Abbey College’s $100 million capital campaign that launched earlier this year. As part of the unprecedented “Made True” campaign, the college hopes to secure additional philanthropic support from alumni, parents and the broader community for the new performing arts center on campus.

Belmont Abbey College President Dr. Bill Thierfelder said in a statement, “This project helps realize the college’s mission to bring the true, the good and the beautiful to as many people as possible and thereby culturally enriching the state of North Carolina and beyond.”

A Community Leaders’ Advisory Committee will be developed to collect

Catholic schools enrollment opens Nov. 2 as diocese becomes ‘destination’ CHRISTINA LEE KNAUSS clknauss@charlottediocese.org

CHARLOTTE — Enrollment season is here again for Catholic schools in the Diocese of Charlotte, which this year has a record number of students and is exploring possible expansion at several schools.

Sign up for the school system’s nine Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools (MACS) officially opens Nov. 2, with parishbased schools following soon after.

“Our schools are thriving, as we continue to become a destination diocese for teachers and students,” said Dr. Greg Monroe, superintendent of Catholic schools. “Families are spreading the word about the great education and faith-filled environments we offer across our 20 schools.”

More than 8,100 students enrolled in Catholic schools for the current 2022-’23 school year, an increase of 18 percent since the pandemic started in 2020. Interest in attending next year is expected to increase, so Monroe encourages prospective families to research schools they are interested in and begin the enrollment process as soon as possible.

Monroe said he was recently reminded of the impact of Catholic education.

Last month in Raleigh, Monroe met a man and through conversation learned his son had attended Charlotte Catholic High School. The son graduated with a solid foundation, the father said proudly, and is now doing well at The College of

Charleston.

The man then pulled out his phone to show Monroe a photo of his son walking across the stage at Charlotte Catholic’s graduation in 2022. Monroe laughed when he noticed that he himself was also in the photo – shaking the son’s hand.

“He told me that choosing to send his son to Charlotte Catholic was one of the best decisions he’d ever made,” Monroe said.

“To meet one of our parents, and hear that, is a testament to what we do in our schools. We want parents to know we see each child as uniquely beloved by God, and we will help them succeed – not only in academics and careers, but also in their ultimate vocation and finding who God wants them to become.”

MACS SCHOOLS (CHARLOTTE AREA)

MACS is a family of nine Catholic schools in the greater Charlotte area. Online enrollment for the 2024-’25 school year for MACS begins Nov. 2. Apply and learn more at www.discovermacs.org/apply. n St. Ann School, 704-525-4938; www. stanncatholic.org n St. Gabriel School, 704-366-2409; www. stgabrielcatholicschool.org n St. Matthew School, 704-544-2070; www. stmattwildcats.com n St. Patrick School, 704-333-3174, www. saintpatrickschool.org ENROLLMENT, SEE PAGE 28

PHOTO PROVIDED

Belmont Abbey College officials accept a check totaling $9 million from state representatives to begin construction of a new performing arts center. input from the college’s constituents and others in the community and to make recommendations to the college about the programming and design of the performing arts center, the statement said.

How to give At www.madetrue.bac.edu: Get more information and learn how to support Belmont Abbey College’s historic “Made True” campaign.

— Catholic News Herald

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FROM TH

iiiOctober 27, 2023 | catholicnewsherald.com

A C E L E BR ATI O N O F

Happy Hallo A

s the liturgical year winds down and with Advent just weeks away, the Church celebrates the colorful season of “Hallowtide” – a three-day observance dedicated to remembering the dead, including saints, martyrs and all the faithful departed. The "triduum” of feast days begins Oct. 31 with All Hallows’ Eve (also called All Saints’ Eve, Day of the

PHOTO PROVIDED BY AMY BURGER

TEXT BY SPENCER K.M. BROWN

Preschoolers wore adorable costumes for an All Saints Day celebration at St. Mark School in Huntersville in 2018.

All Hallows’ Eve A

ll Hallows’ Eve falls on Oct. 31, the day before All Hallows’ Day (or All Saints Day), when the Church traditionally held a vigil as worshippers prepared themselves with prayers and fasting prior to the feast day itself. The name comes from the Old English “hallowed," meaning holy or sanctified – now shortened to the familiar word “Hallowe'en.” In the early Church, communities gathered to celebrate Mass and pray for the intercession of saints and for deceased loved ones. They built bonfires representing God’s light and victory over death and evil. The celebration has evolved to a more secular day of pumpkin carving, trick-or-treating, festive gatherings, costumes and treats.

A tradition of Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, is reminiscing about departed loved ones at home altar

Create a home altar H

ome altars are usually comprised of triangular-shaped tiers representing three states of the Church: the living, the dead in purgatory, and the communion of saints in heaven. (Some refer to these as the “Church Militant,” the “Church Penitent,” and the “Church Triumphant.”) Follow these four steps to create your own Day of the Dead home altar:

Set up a three-tiered shelf or table in a prominent place in your home. On the top tier, prominently place a crucifix or icon of Our Lord, surrounded by images of saints or the Blessed Virgin Mary.

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memora decease

HE COVER

October 27, 2023 | catholicnewsherald.comiii

F SAINTS & SOULS

owtide!

Three days of prayers and celebrations for those gone before us

Dead among Hispanics and, of course, Halloween) and also includes All Saints Day Nov. 1 and All Souls’ Day Nov. 2. The feasts of Hallowtide date back to the 6th century. It is a festive, solemn and holy time the Church gives us to reflect on Christ’s triumph over sin and death, to meditate on our own mortality and relationship with God, and to honor the saints in heaven and pray for our deceased loved ones.

ILLUSTR ATIONS BY DAVID PUCKETT

CÉSAR HURTADO | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

A homemade decoration for Day of the Dead, depicting a loved one’s favorite band, The Beatles.

In Hispanic tradition, it is customary to add memorabilia or favorite items from dead family members to a home altar in remembrance of them.

Dia de los

Muertos DAY OF THE DEAD

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WIKICOMMONS PHOTO

rs decorated with flowers, photos, and favorite foods and memorabilia of the deceased.

he traditional Mexican holiday Dia de los Muertos – or Day of the Dead – has also become a mainstream holiday in American pop culture, with its colorfully decorated skulls and flowers adorning clothing featured in advertising and embraced by organizations from Hollywood to major league sports. But beyond its commercial appeal, the Day of the Dead has roots in Hispanic Catholic culture. The celebration coincides with the feasts of All Saints Day and All Souls’ Day. Despite its bleak name, Day of the Dead isn’t a time for mourning. It is a celebration of life – a time to honor the memory of deceased loved ones, to pray for the souls in purgatory, and to seek intercession on their behalf from those in heaven. The Day of the Dead is both festive and holy. Families visit the gravesites of their dearly departed, praying and beautifying the resting places with candles, flowers and personal memorabilia.

They may read letters and tell anecdotes and jokes about their deceased loved ones. They also may bring a meal that includes the favorite foods of the deceased.

It is tradition to go to Mass, and families create home altars with flowers and candles to remember and pray for the deceased.

for Day of the Dead

On the middle tier, place pictures or abilia of your ed loved ones.

On the lowest tier, place favorite foods, candies or beverages of your deceased loved ones. Here, you can also place colorful skeletons or skulls made of sugar, clay or chocolate as a reminder that death is a certainty for us all, yet in this life, we strive for eternal life with God in heaven.

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Use pieces of colorful paper, representing joy, to decorate and embellish your altar. Add flowers, such as yellow marigolds to symbolize Mary, to beautify the altar.

Place votive candles on all three levels, symbolizing Christ as the Light of the World. Then, remember your departed loved ones at the altar – through prayer, by sharing funny and meaningful stories, and by serving their favorite foods.

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catholicnewsherald.com | October 27, 2023 FROM THE COVER

A C E L E BR ATI O N O F S AIN T S & S OULS

All Saints Day T

he Feast of All Saints dates to the 4th century when Christian communities held prayer vigils, lit fires and candles, and celebrated Masses for martyrs. These early celebrations were usually held around Pentecost (in May) or other holy days. In the 8th century, Pope Gregory III changed the date to Nov. 1 when he dedicated a chapel at the Vatican in honor of all the saints, and Pope Gregory IV later extended the celebration to the universal Church. One tradition associated with the feast day is

going to Mass, and it is a holy day of obligation. Other traditions include reading and learning about the saints, saying special prayers to the saints, and asking for their intercession so that we too might become saints. Either on Oct. 31 or Nov. 1, it is also tradition for children to dress up in costumes of their favorite saints. On All Saints Day, we pray to the saints, known and unknown, that they continue to help and guide us along our path to salvation.

FILE | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Parishioners at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Charlotte took part in a pilgrimage and veneration of more than 100 saints’ relics, in conjunction with Masses for All Saints Day on Nov. 1, 2021.

All Souls’ Day O

n Nov. 2, the Church commemorates all of the faithful departed. The Feast of All Souls is a holy day to honor and pray for the dead as they are being purified before entering heaven. Catholic teaching, rooted in scripture, says the soul of a person who dies goes to one of three places: heaven, where a person who dies in a state of grace and communion with God goes; hell, where those who die in a state of mortal sin are condemned by their choice; or purgatory, where sinners go to atone for their sins before going to heaven. Consistent with these

teachings and traditions, Catholics believe that through the prayers of the faithful on earth, the souls in purgatory are cleansed of their sins so they may enter heaven. The custom of setting a special day to pray for the dead on Nov. 2 was first established by St. Odilo of Cluny in 998. While Nov. 2 remains the liturgical celebration date, the entire month of November has become associated in the Catholic tradition with praying for the departed. Parishes place lists of names of those to be remembered near the altar and pray for them at Masses throughout the month.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY AMY BURGER

Father John Putnam, pastor of St. Mark Parish in Huntersville, offered an All Souls’ Day Mass at Northlake Memorial Garden Cemetery in 2019. After Mass, Father Putnam blessed graves with holy water.

Fun ways to celebrate Hallowtide Take your family to Mass on All Hallow’s Eve (Tuesday, Oct. 31), then enjoy a special feast and celebration with loved ones. (It’s also fine to indulge children in Halloween festivities.)

When you go to Mass on All Saints Day (Wednesday, Nov. 1), honor and pray for the saints in heaven for all they have done for you.

Pray especially to your patron saints.

Read about the lives of the saints or have a party with games and costumes based on saints.

On All Souls’ Day (Thursday, Nov. 2), pray for the souls in purgatory and make special sacrifices or give something up on their behalf, especially for deceased family members and others you have known and loved. Especially pray for those souls who have no one else to pray for them. You can even visit cemeteries to pray for the dead, lighting candles or bringing flowers. There is an indulgence for those who visit a cemetery and offer certain prayers on this day.

October 27, 2023 | catholicnewsherald.com

FROM THE COVERI

A C E L E BR ATI O N O F S AIN T S & S OULS

Add some more color to your celebration

WWW.THECATHOLICKID.COM

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njoy this coloring page with your family and learn the Prayer for the Faithful Departed below. This prayer is traditionally said for departed loved ones to help get them to heaven. You can recite it when visiting someone’s grave, attending a funeral for a friend or loved one, or even after meals.

Prayer for the Faithful Departed V. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord.

R. And let perpetual light shine upon them.

May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Amen.

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catholicnewsherald.com | October 27, 2023 18

Diácono Scott Gilfillan

La forma como trabaja Dios

H

ace unas semanas, prediqué una homilía sobre el perdón.

El perdón es difícil, pero el Libro de la Sabiduría ofreció dos palabras simples que nos iniciarán en el camino del perdón: “Pasar por alto las faltas”. (28:7) Un corolario de este consejo es asumir que la otra persona está haciendo lo mejor que puede. Suena un poco simplista, pero pruébalo esta semana, especialmente con esa persona que te hace un nudo en el estómago o te mantiene despierto por la noche.

Ilustré la homilía con una metáfora acerca de mí mismo cuando paseo a mi perro. Es un pequeño poodle. Nos vamos frecuentemente de excursión por el bosque. Está muy familiarizado con los senderos alrededor del Centro Católico de Conferencias, pero también frecuentamos la cercana Montaña Baker y las cascadas en South Mountain un poco más adelante.

De vez en cuando camina por el lado equivocado de un árbol y su correa se enreda. Esto me hacía enojar. Camino a buen ritmo, y no me gustaba esta interrupción no deseada. Gritaba: “¡Vamos!” y luego tiraba de la correa. Él respondía con dolor y confusión. Quería venir hacia mí, pero la correa lo tiraba en dirección opuesta. Después de meses, pensé que aprendería cómo caminar alrededor del árbol. Durante todo ese tiempo, yo seguía enojándome y él seguía confundiéndose. Entonces me di cuenta de que nunca iba a resolver esto. El perrito estaba haciendo lo mejor que podía.

Cuando seguí el consejo del Libro de la Sabiduría y pasé por alto esta falta, cambié mi respuesta. Aflojé la correa y caminé de regreso hacia él. Le decía suavemente: “¿Estás enredado?” Luego lo guiaba alrededor del árbol.

Esa es también la forma en que Dios trabaja con nosotros. Cuando terminamos en el lado equivocado del árbol, Dios no tira de nuestra correa y se enoja con nosotros. Dios nos envía a Jesús, quien gentilmente viene a nosotros y nos dice: “¿Estás enredado? Déjame mostrarte el camino”.

Con aquellos a quienes estamos luchando por perdonar, Dios quiere que hagamos lo mismo.

DIÁCONO SCOTT GILFILLAN es diácono y director del Centro Católico de Conferencias en Hickory.

Señor de los Milagros recibió homenaje de comunidad migrante CÉSAR HURTADO rchurtado@charlottediocese.org

CHARLOTTE — Centenares de hombres y mujeres ataviados con hábitos de color morado, una soga blanca y un detente con la imagen del Señor de los Milagros, participaron de la Misa y procesión organizada en honor de esta devoción de origen peruano que se celebra en todo el mundo durante el mes de octubre.

En horas de la tarde del pasado sábado 14 de octubre, miembros de la Hermandad South Charlotte del Señor de los Milagros trabajaban diligentemente en los exteriores de la parroquia Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe en Charlotte, ultimando los detalles finales de la pesada anda que porta una copia de la sagrada imagen del Cristo Moreno que se venera en la Iglesia de Las Nazarenas, en el centro de la ciudad de Lima, capital de Perú.

A las seis de la tarde se celebró una Misa bilingüe que ofició el Padre Blas Lemos, vicario parroquial, ante una iglesia en su mayoría repleta de nacionales peruanos.

TRAJE DE GRACIA

En su homilía, el Padre Blas, que vestía una casulla color morado con la imágen de la devoción, refiriéndose al Evangelio del domingo 15, Mateo 22:1-14, dijo que el Señor, Rey de Reyes, nuestra mayor alegría y felicidad, después de ser rechazado por los “importantes”, abrió las puertas de “su fiesta de bodas” a todos, siempre y cuando “luzcamos nuestro traje de boda, el traje con la actitud necesaria, el traje de la gracia y la libertad”.

Esa fiesta, añadió, “es la fiesta de la salvación. Por eso, hoy que celebramos al Señor de los Milagros, le pedimos que nos conceda EL SEÑOR, PASA A LA PÁGINA 28 (Arriba) Hermanos cargadores esperan el inicio de la procesión.

(Abajo izquierda) El Padre Blas Lemos, después de bendecir la imagen, acompaña al capataz de la Hermandad South Charlotte, Jorge Caldas. (Abajo derecha) El traje morado, la cuerda blanca y el detente con la imagen, son parte del atuendo característico de la devoción al Señor de los Milagros.

FOTOS POR CÉSAR HURTADO | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

October 27, 2023 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

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‘Es una alegría servir al Señor en la Diócesis de Charlotte’ Obispo Jugis celebró Misa de acción de gracias por 20 Aniversario CHRISTINA LEE KNAUSS clknauss@charlottediocese.org

FOTO CORTESÍA ARCHIVO PARROQUIA NTRA. SRA. DE GUADALUPE

Llegada de la Antorcha Guadalupana a Charlotte en 2022. Este año también será recibida con danzas, números musicales, Misa y una cena de agradecimiento a los corredores de Carolina del Sur.

Antorcha Guadalupana llegará a Charlotte el 7 de noviembre CÉSAR HURTADO rchurtado@charlottediocese.org

CHARLOTTE — En su vigésima primera edición, la Carrera Antorcha Guadalupana México - New York 2023, tocará suelo diocesano el martes 7 de noviembre, cuando aproximadamente a las 6 de la tarde la caravana de corredores que porta la flama de la unidad, acompañada de los lienzos gigantescos de María de Guadalupe y San Juan Diego, llegue a los terrenos de la parroquia Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe en Charlotte.

Alejandro Altamirano, organizador local por trece años, comentó que son más de siete mil los corredores que con amor y satisfacción portan la Antorcha en oración a través de al menos nueve estados mexicanos y catorce en Estados Unidos de Norteamérica.

“Estos mensajeros por la dignidad de un pueblo dividido por una frontera han respondido al llamado a profundizar en la fe y a evangelizar en la periferia”, dijo Altamirano, añadiendo que en su caso personal agradece a Nuestra Madre, “por la oportunidad de servirla un año más”.

La Antorcha partió de la Basílica Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe en la Ciudad de México el pasado 2 de septiembre, después de la celebración de una Misa en su honor a las seis de la mañana.

La caravana de la Morenita del Tepeyac cruzó la frontera Mexico-Estados Unidos el pasado viernes 20 de octubre. Tras recorrer Texas, Louisiana y Tennessee, se espera que llegue a Fultondale, Alabama, el lunes 29.

La luz de la Antorcha está cargada de un gran simbolismo para el pueblo hispano en Estados Unidos. Representa la luz brillante de la Virgen, portadora de esperanza y amor para los más desposeídos, para las

familias separadas que esperan por una reforma migratoria integral que pueda reunir padres e hijos. Nos recuerda las palabras de la Virgen a San Juan Diego, “Oye y ten entendido, hijo mío el más pequeño, no dejes que nada te asuste ni te aflija, que no se turbe tu corazón… ¿No estoy aquí, yo, que soy tu madre? ¿No estás bajo mi sombra?”.

El destino final de la caravana de corredores es Central Park, en la ciudad de Nueva York, el 12 de diciembre, fecha central de la celebración de la fiesta de la Morenita del Tepeyac.

Los corredores guadalupanos recibirán el relevo en Grover, Carolina del Sur, en donde se encontarán con la delegación de la parroquia Santa María Magdalena de Simpsonville, y juntos portarán la antorcha hasta Charlotte.

La Antorcha visitará las parroquias San Francisco de Asís en Mocksville, Divino Redentor en Boonville, Santa María en Greensboro, Inmaculado Corazón de María en High Point y Nuestra Señora de los Caminos en Thomasville. El domingo 12 dejará esta parroquia para dirigirse de retorno a Santa María en Greensboro, donde la esperarán los corredores que la llevarán hasta la Iglesia Inmaculada Concepción en Durham, de la Diócesis de Raleigh.

La inscripción de corredores ya se encuentra abierta. Si la Antorcha no tiene previsto detenerse en su parroquia, igualmente puede registrar su participación y se le considerará para que la porte en el trayecto más cercano a su domicilio.

Para registrarse, consulte al coordinador del ministerio hispano de su parroquia.

También puede enviar un mensaje de texto a Alejandro Altamirano al (704) 965-1290.

diócesis de Charlotte, más del doble de lo que era la población en 2003 cuando el entonces Padre Jugis fue ordenado cuarto obispo de Charlotte.

“Pueden ver lo que nuestra devoción a la Eucaristía ha traído a la diócesis”, dijo el obispo, “nuestras parroquias son fuertes, con buena asistencia a Misa.

Nuestras escuelas están floreciendo, Caridades Católicas se está expandiendo, más parroquias están comenzando capillas de Adoración Eucarística, el programa de vocaciones está creciendo

CHARLOTTE — El Obispo Peter Jugis celebró silenciosamente el 20 aniversario de su ordenación episcopal con una Misa de acción de gracias en la que centró su homilía en uno de sus temas favoritos: la importancia de la Eucaristía.

Alrededor de 30 personas se sorprendieron gratamente al ver al Obispo Jugis ofreciendo la habitual Misa diaria el 24 de octubre en la Catedral San Patricio. La Misa se celebró en la capilla temporal del Centro de Vida Familiar debido a los trabajos de remozamiento en la catedral.

El obispo inició su homilía refiriéndose a San Antonio María Claret, un obispo español del siglo XIX que se convirtió en misionero y es conocido por evangelizar Cuba. La fiesta del santo es el 24 de octubre, el mismo día del aniversario del Obispo Jugis, y también comparten el mismo lema: “Caritas Christi Urget Nos” (“El amor de TROY HULL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD Cristo nos impulsa”).

Con una Misa de acción de gracias, en la que centró su homilía “¿Cuál era el secreto de en la importancia de la Eucaristía, el Obispo Jugis celebró su 20 su apostolado?”, preguntó el Aniversario de ordenación episcopal el martes 24 de octubre en la Obispo Jugis, “La Eucaristía, Catedral San Patricio. la creencia de que Cristo está presente en la Eucaristía, fue el motor y el Congreso Eucarístico anual está de su espiritualidad. Dondequiera que floreciendo. Nuestra vitalidad espiritual haya una gran devoción a la Eucaristía, proviene de la verdadera fuente: la sucederán grandes cosas. Es la fuente y presencia real de Cristo en la Eucaristía”. cumbre de nuestra fe cristiana”.

Al final de la liturgia, Monseñor Jugis La promoción de la devoción a la agradeció a los asistentes a Misa.

Eucaristía ha estado en el corazón del “Es un gozo servir al Señor aquí en la Obispo Jugis como líder de la diócesis, Diócesis de Charlotte”, dijo. “Recuerden y él acredita la fe en la Eucaristía como que todo, todo lo que tenemos y todo lo clave para el crecimiento exponencial que que hacemos, es un regalo de un Dios la diócesis está experimentando. Más de amoroso”.

530.000 católicos ahora llaman hogar a la

FE

FAMILIA

FRATERNIDAD

Caballeros de Colón

Considere unirse a los más de 2 millones de miembros de la organización fraternal católica más grande del mundo y registrándose en línea hoy en: www.kofc.org/joinus/es

Por tiempo limitado - Membresía en línea GRATIS Use el código de promoción (BLESSEDMCGIVNEY)

20

catholicnewsherald.com | October 27, 2023 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

FOTOS POR CÉSAR HURTADO | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Los tres niveles de un altar de muertos representan a las tres Iglesias; la triunfante que disfruta de la compañía del Señor en el Cielo; la purgante que expía temporalmente sus pecados en el purgatorio; y la militante, viva, presente y orante.

Celebrando la vida el Día de los Muertos CÉSAR HURTADO rchurtado@charlottediocese.org

CHARLOTTE — En México es tradicional preparar para el 2 de noviembre, día en que la Iglesia Católica Universal recuerda a los fieles difuntos, un “altar de muertos” con diversos símbolos cristianos y otros elementos que nos recuerdan a nuestros familiares y amigos fallecidos.

En otros países de Latinoamérica, donde el cristianismo también se ha fusionado con otras culturas prehispánicas, se presentan tradiciones similares en lo que se ha denominado la celebración del Día de Muertos.

El Padre Fidel Melo, párroco de la Iglesia San James en Hamlet, aclara que esta tradición, profundamente católica, no está relacionada con la celebración de Halloween ni la llamada ‘Santa Muerte’, sino que está referida a Santa Iglesia Católica en su manifestación de vitalidad divina y humana como Iglesia militante, purgante y triunfante. “En esta fecha, conmemorando el Día de Muertos, celebrando a nuestros fieles difuntos, nosotros, como Iglesia militante, viva y presente, recordamos con alegría a nuestros antepasados que ahora son parte de la Iglesia triunfante, de aquellos que gozan de participar de la gracia de Dios. Y también oramos por las almas de nuestros hermanos que están en el purgatorio para que pronto sean libradas de sus penas”.

Santa Catalina de Siena, la gran mística italiana del siglo XIV y doctora de la Iglesia, decía que las almas del purgatorio que han sido libradas de sus penas nunca se olvidarán de sus benefactores en la tierra e intercederán

por ellos ante Dios. Además, cuando esa persona llegue al cielo, ellas saldrán a recibirlo.

El Padre Julio Domínguez, vicario episcopal del Ministerio Hispano, explicó que el día 1 de noviembre los mexicanos asisten a Misa por el Día de Todos los Santos y recuerdan a los niños fallecidos, dedicando el día 2 a todos los adultos que nos antecedieron en la muerte.

“No estamos celebrando la muerte, sino que, siendo una fecha en la que todos los difuntos, sea que se encuentren en el cielo o en el purgatorio, festejan. Nosotros, desde la Tierra, nos unimos a ellos”, dijo.

¿VAS A HACER UN ALTAR DE MUERTO?

Si consideras hacer un altar de muerto o una ofrenda, debes tener en cuenta los siguientes elementos 1- Debe tener 3 niveles para guardar relación a los tres niveles de la Iglesia. La Iglesia militante, quienes vivimos en la tierra; la Iglesia purgante, las almas de los fallecidos que se encuentran en el purgatorio; y la Iglesia triunfante, que se encuentra en el Cielo.

2- Debe contar con un arco, representación a la puerta de entrada al Cielo.

3- No puede faltar una cruz y la imagen de la Virgen. La Cruz nos recuerda la muerte de Cristo, que entregó su vida por nuestros pecados, pero que con su resurrección triunfó sobre la muerte y nos abrió las puertas del Cielo. La imagen de la Virgen María nos recuerda que es nuestra madre e intercesora.

4- Debe haber agua bendita, ya que nos recuerda nuestro bautismo, que nos convirtió en hijos de Dios, miembros de Cristo y parte de la Iglesia.

5- Fotografías de nuestros seres queridos que nos ayuden a recordarlos y tenerlos presentes en nuestras oraciones.

6- Veladoras, una por cada ser querido fallecido, que simbolizan la luz de Cristo, así como la fe y la esperanza.

7- Comida, como recuerdo de nuestros seres queridos fallecidos sus platos de comida predilectos.

8- Flores de cempasúchil, que representan la luz del sol.

La tradición precolombina mexicana asegura que guía a los muertos hacia el altar.

LIBRA UN ALMA DEL PURGATORIO

Este 2 de noviembre, cuando se celebre la Conmemoración de los Fieles Difuntos, se puede obtener una indulgencia plenaria para el alma de un ser querido, familiar o amigo.

El Papa Francisco explicó el 30 de octubre de 2013 que así como los santos interceden ante Dios por nosotros, podemos rogar al Señor por las almas del Purgatorio.

“Todos los bautizados en la tierra, las almas del Purgatorio y todos los beatos que están ya en el Paraíso forman una única gran Familia.

Esta comunión entre tierra y cielo se realiza sobre todo en la oración de intercesión”, dijo en esa ocasión.

La indulgencia plenaria ‘devuelve’ el alma al estado en el que estuvo al recibir el Bautismo. Si una persona fallece después de recibir este don, va directamente al Cielo.

Según la Indulgentiarum Doctrina (Norma 15), un católico puede ganar indulgencia plenaria por un difunto “en todas las iglesias, oratorios públicos o -por parte de quienes los empleen legítimamentesemipúblicos” y siguiendo las condiciones habituales para ganar una indulgencia plenaria.

— Colaboró ACI Prensa

October 27, 2023 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

21

Crean orden de Caballeros de San Pedro Claver en Charlotte CHRISTINA LEE KNAUSS clknauss@charlottediocese.org

CHARLOTTE — Hombres con traje azul y una larga fila de mujeres vestidas de blanco ingresaron a la iglesia Nuestra Señora de la Consolación el domingo 15 de octubre para hacer historia.

Se celebraba el inicio del primer capítulo de los Caballeros de San Pedro Claver y las Damas Auxiliares de esa órden en la Diócesis de Charlotte.

El Capítulo 411 de los Caballeros de San Pedro Claver en Charlotte se inauguró formalmente en junio, y el de las Damas Auxiliares el 15 de octubre. Ambos tienen su sede en Nuestra Señora de la Consolación, una parroquia históricamente afroamericana en Charlotte.

“Ha tomado un esfuerzo de 30 años llegar a Charlotte y hacerlos parte de la familia de los Caballeros de San Pedro Claver”, dijo Grant Jones, director ejecutivo de la organización con sede en Nueva Orleans, a una gran multitud congregada en la Misa de las 11 a.m. celebrada en el Centro parroquial de Vida Familiar.

La organización fue fundada en 1909

por cuatro sacerdotes josefinos y tres laicos de la Diócesis de Mobile, Alabama, que querían formar una orden fraternal católica para servir a la comunidad afroamericana. Las otras órdenes fraternales de la Iglesia en los Estados Unidos en ese momento no permitían miembros de color. La orden se expandió para incluir a las Damas Auxiliares en 1926 y ahora tiene su sede en Nueva Orleans.

Nombrada en honor a un sacerdote jesuita español del siglo XVII que atendía a personas esclavizadas, la organización ahora tiene más de 400 capítulos en Estados Unidos y uno en Colombia.

Micaela LeBlanc, Dama Suprema de las Damas Auxiliares nacionales, viajó desde la Arquidiócesis de Los Ángeles para el evento, al que asistieron más de 40 miembros de las Auxiliares de nueve estados, incluyendo Carolina del Sur, Florida, Arizona y Alabama.

“Este es un evento verdaderamente histórico para las damas”, dijo LeBlanc.

“Estamos aquí para expandir la gloria de Dios difundiendo la presencia católica en Charlotte”.

La orden ofrece una variedad de actividades sociales y caritativas para los miembros y apoya una amplia variedad de causas de justicia social, incluida la reforma de la justicia penal, el fin de la trata de personas, la violencia doméstica y el racismo.

Mary Adams, miembro de la Parroquia Nuestra Señora de la Consolación, nació y creció en Nueva Orleans y se unió a la Corte de Cristo Rey de las Damas Auxiliares allí en 2011. Mantuvo su membresía después de mudarse a Charlotte y ha sido nombrada diputada de área para Damas Auxiliares.

Adams compartió el día con la Gran Dama Sabrera Pepin de Nueva Orleans, la persona que le pidió que se uniera a la organización. Ambas mujeres son parte de una larga historia familiar, con cinco generaciones pertenecientes a los Caballeros y Damas Auxiliares.

“Nuestros miembros son como una familia”, dijo Pepin.

“Esposos, esposas, hijos e hijas pueden pertenecer y participar juntos en las actividades de los Caballeros de San Pedro Claver”.

El Santo de la Escoba San Martín de Porres, también llamado Porras, nació en la ciudad de Lima, Perú, el día 9 de diciembre del año 1579. Fue hijo de Juan de Porres, caballero español de la Orden de Calatrava, y de Ana Velásquez, mujer de tez morena libre panameña.

Martín fue bautizado en la Iglesia de San Sebastián, donde años más tarde Santa Rosa de Lima también lo fuera.

Son misteriosos los caminos del Señor. No fue sino un santo quien lo confirmó en la fe de sus padres, Santo Toribio de Mogrovejo, primer arzobispo de Lima, quien hizo descender el Espíritu sobre su moreno corazón, corazón que el Señor fue haciendo manso y humilde como el de su Madre.

A los doce, Martín ingresó de aprendiz de peluquero y asistente de un dentista. La fama de su santidad corría de boca en boca por la ciudad de Lima.

Martín conoció al Fraile Juan de Lorenzana, famoso dominico, teólogo y hombre de virtudes, quien lo invitó a ingresar al Convento de Nuestra Señora del Rosario.

Las leyes de aquel entonces le impedían ser religioso por su color y raza, por lo que ingresó como Donado, entregándose a Dios y dejando que su vida esté presidida por el servicio, la humildad, obediencia y un amor sin medida.

San Martín tuvo un sueño que Dios lo desbarató: “Pasar desapercibido y ser el último”. Su anhelo más profundo siempre fue de seguir a Jesús. Se le confió la limpieza de la casa, por lo que la escoba fue, junto con la cruz, la gran compañera de su vida.

Sirvió y atendió a todos, pero no fue comprendido por todos.

Un día, cortaba el pelo a un estudiante que, molesto ante la mejor sonrisa de Fray Martín, no duda en insultarlo: ¡Perro mulato! ¡Hipócrita! La respuesta fue una generosa sonrisa.

San Martín llevaba ya dos años en el convento, y hacía seis que no veía a su padre. Éste lo visita, y después de dialogar con el P. Provincial, deciden que Fray Martín se convierta en hermano cooperador.

CONSAGRADO A DIOS

El 2 de junio de 1603 se consagra a Dios por su profesión religiosa. El P. Fernando Aragonés testificará: “Se ejercitaba en la caridad día y noche, curando enfermos, dando limosna a españoles, indios y negros, a todos quería, amaba y curaba con singular amor”. La portería del convento era un reguero de soldados humildes, indios, mulatos, y negros; él solía repetir: “No hay gusto mayor que dar a los pobres”.

TROY HULL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

La orden lleva el nombre de San Pedro Claver, quien se opuso a la injusticia de la esclavitud en Cartagena, Colombia, durante el Siglo XVII. Se autodenominó “esclavo de los esclavos”.

Lecturas Diarias

Su hermana Juana tenía buena posición social, por lo que, en una finca de ella, daba cobijo a enfermos y pobres. Y en su patio acoge a perros, gatos y ratones.

Pronto la virtud del moreno dejó de ser un secreto. Su servicio como enfermero se extendía desde sus hermanos dominicos hasta las personas más abandonadas que podía encontrar en la calle.

Su humildad fue probada en el dolor de la injuria, incluso de parte de algunos religiosos dominicos. Incomprensión y envidias: camino de contradicciones que fue asemejando al mulato a su Reconciliador.

Los religiosos de la Ciudad Virreinal van de sorpresa en sorpresa, por lo que el Superior le prohíbe realizar nada extraordinario sin su consentimiento. Un día, cuando regresaba al Convento, un albañil le grita al caer del andamio; el Santo le hace señas y corre a pedir permiso al superior, éste y el interesado quedan cautivados por su docilidad.

Cuando vio que se acercaba el momento feliz de ir a gozar de la presencia de Dios, pidió a los religiosos que le rodeaban que entonasen el Credo. Mientras lo cantaban, entregó su alma a Dios.

Era el 3 de noviembre de 1639.

Su muerte causó profunda conmoción en la ciudad. Había sido el hermano y enfermero de todos, singularmente de los más pobres.

Todos se disputaban por conseguir alguna reliquia. Toda la ciudad le dio el último adiós.

Su culto se extendió prodigiosamente. El Papa Gregorio XVI lo declaró Beato en 1837. Fue canonizado por Juan XXIII en 1962.

Recordaba el Papa, en la homilía de la canonización, las devociones en que se había distinguido el nuevo Santo: su profunda humildad que le hacía considerar a todos superiores a él, su celo apostólico, y sus continuos desvelos por atender a enfermos y necesitados, lo que le valió, por parte de todo el pueblo, el hermoso apelativo de “Martín de la caridad”.

Su fiesta se celebra el 3 de noviembre.

Oración a San Martín de Porres En esta necesidad y pena que me agobia acudo a ti, mi protector San Martín de Porres.

Quiero sentir tu poderosa intercesión. Tú, que viviste sólo para Dios y para tus hermanos, que tan solícito fuiste en socorrer a los necesitados, escucha a quienes admiramos tus virtudes.

Confío en tu poderoso valimiento para que, intercediendo ante el Dios de bondad, me sean perdonados mis pecados y me vea libre de males y desgracias.

Alcánzame tu espíritu de caridad y servicio para que amorosamente te sirva entregado a mis hermanos y a hacer el bien.

Padre celestial, por los méritos de tu fiel siervo San Martín, ayúdame en mis problemas y no permitas que quede confundida mi esperanza.

Te lo pedimos por Jesucristo, nuestro Señor. Amén.

— Condensado de ACI Prensa

OCTUBRE 29-NOVIEMBRE 4 Domingo: Éxodo 22:20-26, 1 Tesalonicenses 1:5-10, Mateo 22:34-40; Lunes: Romanos 8:12-17, Lucas 13:10-17; Martes: Romanos 8:18-25, Lucas 13:18-21; Miércoles (Solemnidad de Todos los Santos): Apocalipsis 7:2-4, 9-14, 1 Juan 3:1-3, Mateo 5:1-12; Jueves (Todos los fieles difuntos): Sabiduría 3:1-9, Romanos 5:5-11, Juan 6:37-40; Viernes (San Martin de Porras): Romanos 9:1-5, Lucas 14:1-6; Sábado (San Carlos Borromeo): Romanos 11:1-2, 11-12, 25-29, Lucas 14:1, 7-11 NOVIEMBRE 5-11 Domingo: Malaquías 1:14–2:2, 8-10, 1 Tesalonicenses 2:7-9, 13, Mateo 23:1-12; Lunes: Romanos 11:30-36, Lucas 14:12-14; Martes: Filipenses 2:5-11, Lucas 14:15-24; Miércoles: Romanos 13:8-10, Lucas 14:2533; Jueves (Fiesta de la Dedicación de la Basílica de Letrán): Ezequiel 47:1-2, 8-9, 12, 1 Corintios 3,:9-11, 16-17, Juan 2:1322; Viernes (San Leon Magno): Romanos 15:14-21, Lucas 16:1-8; Sábado (San Martín de Tours): Romanos 16:3-9, 16, 22-27, Lucas 16:9-15 NOVIEMBRE 12-18 Domingo (San Josafat): Sabiduría 6:12-16, 1 Tesalonicenses 4:13-18, Mateo 25:1-13; Lunes (Santa Francisca Cabrini): Sabiduría 1:1-7, Lucas 17:1-6; Martes: Sabiduría 2:23–3:9, Lucas 17:710; Miércoles: Sabiduría 6:1-11, Lucas 17:11-19; Jueves (Santas Margarita de Escocia y Gertrudis): Sabiduría 7:22– 8:1, Lucas 17:20-25; Viernes (Santa Isabel de Hungría): Sabiduría 13:1-9, Lucas 17:26-37; Sábado (Dedicación de las Basilicas de San Pedro y San Pablo, Santa Rosa Filipina Duchesne): Sabiduría 18:14-16, 19:6-9, Lucas 18:1-8

Our nation 22

catholicnewsherald.com | October 27, 2023 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Biden and Pope Francis discuss conflict in Israel and Gaza in phone call KATE SCANLON OSV News

CNS | VATICAN MEDIA

U.S. President Joe Biden, accompanied by his wife, Jill, is pictured with Pope Francis during a meeting at the Vatican Oct. 29, 2021. The pontiff and Biden spoke by phone Oct. 22, 2023, to discuss the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza and facilitating a path to “durable peace” in the region.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Joe Biden and Pope Francis spoke by phone Oct. 22 to discuss the conflict in Israel and Gaza and facilitating a path to “durable peace” in the region, according to the press offices of both leaders.

According to a readout of the call from the White House, Biden and Pope Francis discussed “the latest developments in Israel and Gaza.”

“The President condemned the barbarous attack by Hamas against Israeli civilians and affirmed the need to protect civilians in Gaza,” the readout said, adding the pair discussed the president’s “recent visit to Israel and his efforts to ensure delivery of food, medicine, and other humanitarian assistance to help alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.”

“They also discussed the need to prevent escalation in the region and to work toward a durable peace in the Middle East,” the readout said.

The Holy See Press Office said the conversation lasted around 20

minutes, and that the pope and the president spoke about “situations of conflict in the world and the need to identify paths to peace.”

Earlier the same day at the Angelus prayer, Pope Francis called for peace in the Holy Land.

“I am very concerned, grieved,” he said. “I pray and I am close to all those who are suffering, the hostages, the wounded, the victims and their families.” He appealed for more humanitarian aid for Gaza and said he also was praying for the suffering people of Ukraine.

Biden also spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel the same day, per a White House pool report.

Reuters reported that the first humanitarian aid convoy allowed into Gaza since Hamas’ attack on Israel and the Israeli airstrikes in response arrived in southern Gaza from Egypt Oct. 21 following negotiations. The United Nations said a 20-truck convoy brought supplies including medicine and food. A second convoy of aid trucks arrived Oct. 22, the agency also reported.

Biden makes case for U.S. aid to both Israel, Ukraine amid ongoing conflict KATE SCANLON OSV News

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Israel and Ukraine both face existential threats and deserve U.S. aid as they fend off conflict, President Joe Biden said in an Oval Office address to the nation on Oct. 19.

In the televised address following his return from a visit to Israel, Biden argued that although the conflicts are far from the U.S. mainland, “making sure Israel and Ukraine succeed is vital for America’s national security.”

“History has taught us when terrorists don’t pay a price for their terror, when dictators don’t pay a price for their aggression, they cause more chaos and death and more destruction,” Biden said from behind the Resolute Desk. “They keep going, and the cost and the threats to America and the world keep rising.”

Biden requested more than $105 billion in aid for both conflicts, and other “Critical National Security Priorities,” including efforts to ensure U.S. military resources and additional funding for security efforts at the U.S.-Mexico border, according to a release from the White House, as Ukraine continues to fend off Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion, and Israel responds to an attack by Hamas, a group recognized as a terrorist organization by the United States.

Biden has already approved providing $100 million in humanitarian assistance for the Palestinian people in Gaza on Oct. 18.

“It’s a smart investment that’s going to

pay dividends for American security for generations, help us keep American troops out of harm’s way, help us build a world that is safer, more peaceful, and more prosperous for our children and grandchildren,” Biden said.

Remarking on his visits to both war zones, Biden said “Hamas and Putin represent different threats, but they share this in common: They both want to completely annihilate a neighboring democracy – completely annihilate it.”

Biden said Hamas’ “stated purpose for existing is the destruction of the State of Israel and the murder of Jewish people,” but the group does not represent the Palestinian people.

“Hamas uses Palestinian civilians as human shields, and innocent Palestinian families are suffering greatly because of them,” he said.

Biden also repeated U.S. intelligence analysis that a blast at a Gaza hospital was not caused by Israel.

“More than 1,300 people slaughtered in Israel, including at least 32 American citizens,” Biden said, adding that “scores of innocents – from infants to elderly grandparents, Israelis, Americans” – (have been) taken hostage.

“As I told the families of Americans being held captive by Hamas, we’re pursuing every avenue to bring their loved ones home,” he said. “As president, there is no higher priority for me than the safety of Americans held hostage.”

Meanwhile, Biden said, “Putin denies

U.S. President Joe Biden delivers a prime-time address to the nation about his approaches to the conflict between Israel and Hamas, humanitarian assistance in Gaza and continued support for Ukraine in their war with Russia, from the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, U.S. October 19, 2023.

OSV NEWS | JONATHAN ERNST/REUTERS

Ukraine has or ever had real statehood.”

“He claims the Soviet Union created Ukraine,” Biden said, adding, “If we don’t stop Putin’s appetite for power and control in Ukraine, he won’t limit himself just to Ukraine.”

Biden, who is the nation’s second Catholic president, argued “America is a beacon to the world still.”

“Tonight, there are innocent people all over the world who hope because of us, who believe in a better life because of us, who are desperate not to be forgotten by us, and who are waiting for us,” he said. “But time is of the essence.”

In an allusion to the ongoing and contentious debates in the House over electing a speaker, Biden continued, “I

know we have our divisions at home. We have to get past them.”

If the House fails to elect a Speaker – or a temporary one – U.S. ability to provide aid to both Israel and Ukraine could be stymied, as the chamber cannot conduct its usual business until the position is filled.

“We can’t let petty, partisan, angry politics get in the way of our responsibilities as a great nation,” he said.

“We cannot and will not let terrorists like Hamas and tyrants like Putin win. I refuse to let that happen.”

“We have to remember who we are,” he added. “We are the United States of America, the United States of America.

And there is nothing – nothing beyond our capacity if we do it together.”

October 27, 2023 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief Seahawks offensive tackle loves the game, but Catholic faith is his ‘focal point’ SEATTLE — In his second year as an offensive tackle for the Seattle Seahawks, Abraham “Abe” Lucas is living his childhood dream.

Even so, it’s faith, not football, that’s the most important thing for this self-described “hard-core Catholic.” “It’s my focal point, it drives everything that I do – my faith and my relationship with Jesus Christ,” said Lucas, who grew up near Everett. “It’s my purpose.”

At 6-foot-6 and 322 pounds, Lucas is someone you wouldn’t want to tangle with on the football field. Off the field, he’s been described as a “gentle giant,” considerate and loyal. Currently on injured reserve, Lucas, who turns 25 on Oct. 25, is approachable, open and honest – willing to share his struggles in life and eager to talk about being Catholic. He never misses weekend Mass, and he tries to pray the rosary daily (sometimes on the team plane), go to confession weekly and attend weekday Mass as often as he can. Lucas speaks volumes about being Catholic through the images tattooed on his arms, which include Christ crowned with thorns, the Virgin Mary and St. Michael the Archangel fighting the devil. Serving God by living his faith “is nothing more than my duty to God on this earth,” he said.

Over half a million kids pray rosary for peace in Holy Land NEW YORK — Amid the Israel-Hamas war, children across the world prayed the rosary for peace. On Oct. 18, well over 500,000 kids participated in an annual global rosary campaign sponsored by Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), which since 1947 has worked under the guidance of the pope to provide pastoral and humanitarian assistance to persecuted Catholics. This year, ACN dedicated the annual rosary to “healing and protection of the suffering in the Holy Land,” according to a press release issued by the organization. The war is currently preventing ACN from aiding the small Christian community in the Holy Land, “but we stand ready to do so,” said Edward Clancy, director of outreach for ACN’s U.S. office.

ACN said that it has maintained contact with Sister Nabila Saleh, a Sister of the Holy Rosary assigned to Gaza’s only Catholic parish, the Church of the Holy Family. Sister Nabila said she and her community are determined to remain in place and not flee toward southern Gaza ahead of an anticipated ground invasion by Israel. “We will not go,” she said. Holy Family pastor Father Gabriel Romanelli, an Argentinian and Incarnate Word priest, echoed that determination. Clancy urged ACN donors and friends “to pray for peace and for an opportunity to treat the wounded and to begin to restore the lives of all the innocents caught in the violence.”

Cross Catholic Outreach’s Box of Joy is gift for children in poverty BOCA RATON, Fla. — Over the past decade, Cross Catholic Outreach, a nonprofit based in Boca Raton, Florida, has given more than half a million children a Box of Joy – hand-packed

gift boxes donated by families, parishes, schools, scout troops, ministries and charitable organizations across the United States. Last year, nearly 119,000 children around the world received a Box of Joy filled with new toys, dolls, games, books, crayons, coloring books and everyday necessities such as clothing, toothbrushes and soap. A handmade rosary and a book about Jesus were also tucked inside every box. Cross Catholic Outreach serves communities in more than 30 countries around the world, including the Dominican Republic, where they are distributing food and digging wells for clean drinking water in addition to delivering Boxes of Joy. Registration for the Box of Joy program runs through Oct. 27 for the 2023 season. Gifts can be delivered to drop-off centers during Box of Joy Week Nov. 4-12 for the Christmas Box of Joy distribution.

Small Christian Communities, prominent in Asia, Latin America, seen as model for whole Church WASHINGTON, D.C. — Throughout the various stages of the Synod of Bishops on synodality, several church leaders have referred to a new model of church that includes basic ecclesial communities. But what exactly are those?

The communities – often referred to as CEBs for their Spanish acronym (comunidades eclesiales de base, also referred to as BECs) or as BCCs for Basic Christian Communities – are prominent in Asia and Latin America. The Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa refers to them as Small Christian Communities and has made them part of the ecclesial structure of the church. Some such communities also exist within at least four archdioceses in the United States, primarily within ministry to the Hispanic communities

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in Baltimore, Washington, Chicago and Los Angeles. The communities are small groupings of families that meet to pray, study Scripture, discuss needs and problems of group members and make decisions about action that needs to be taken. The lay leaders receive special training. In many instances, the Small Christian Communities meetings are held in people’s homes and often they share a meal or food.

Maryknoll Father Joseph Healey, who spent 55 years working in Africa, emphasized that “in Eastern Africa, the Small Christian Community model in the church is not a program, it’s a way of life.”

Band of brothers: Franciscan friars unify nationwide, form Our Lady of Guadalupe province KANSAS CITY — The Order of Friars Minor have formed a new, unified Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe that spans the United States coast to coast. The minister general of the Order of Friars Minor, Brother Massimo Fusarelli, established the Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe Oct. 17 during a meeting called the “synodal Chapter of Unity,” during which the province’s first minister provincial, vicar provincial and seven councilors were installed. The new province, headquartered in Atlanta, unifies more than 700 friars who were previously part of six legacy provinces, which were established over the long history of the Order of Friars Minor in the United States.

Tracing their history to St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi, the friars believe combining provinces paves the way for a renewal of Franciscan life, spirituality and fraternity by living the Gospel through service to the poor and people living on society’s margins.

— OSV News

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catholicnewsherald.com | October 27, 2023 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

In letter to diocese, Patriarch Pizzaballa urges: ‘It is time to stop this war’ (Editor’s note: Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin patriarch of Jerusalem, published this letter to his diocese, which contains parishes in Israel, Palestine, Jordan, and Cyprus, on Tuesday, Oct. 24.)

To have the courage of love and peace here, today, means not allowing hatred, revenge, anger, and pain to occupy all the space of our hearts, of our speech, of our thinking. It means making a personal commitment to justice, being able to affirm and denounce the painful truth of injustice and evil that surrounds us, without letting it pollute our relationships. It means being committed, being convinced that it is still worthwhile to do all we can for peace, justice, equality, and reconciliation. Our speech must not be about death and closed doors. On the contrary, our words must be creative, life-giving; they must give perspective and open horizons.

It takes courage to be able to demand justice without spreading hatred. It takes courage to ask for mercy, to reject oppression, to promote equality without demanding uniformity, while remaining free. It takes courage today, even in our diocese and our communities, to maintain unity, to feel united to one another, even in the diversity of our opinions, sensitivities, and visions.

I want, and we want, to be part of this new order inaugurated by Christ. We want to ask God for that courage. We want to be victorious over the world, taking upon ourselves that same cross, which is also ours, made of pain and love, of truth and fear, of injustice and gift, of cries and forgiveness.

D

ear Brothers and Sisters, May the Lord give you peace!

We are going through one of the most difficult and painful periods in our recent times and history. For over two weeks now, we have been inundated with images of horrors, which have reawakened ancient traumas, opened new wounds, and made pain, frustration, and anger explode within all of us. Much seems to speak of death and endless hatred. So many “whys” overlap in our minds, adding to our sense of bewilderment.

The whole world views this Holy Land of ours as a place that is a constant cause of wars and divisions. That is precisely why it was good that a few days ago, the whole world joined us with a day of prayer and fasting for peace. It was a beautiful view of the Holy Land and an important moment of unity with our Church. And that view is still there. Next Oct. 27, the pope has called for a second day of prayer and fasting, so that our intercession may continue. It will be a day that we will celebrate with conviction. It is perhaps the main thing we Christians can do at this time: pray, do penance, intercede. For this, we thank the Holy Father from the bottom of our hearts.

In all this uproar where the deafening noise of the bombs is mixed with the many voices of sorrow and the many conflicting feelings, I feel the need to share with you a word that has its origin in the Gospel of Jesus. That is the starting point which we set out from, and return to, time and time again: a word from the Gospel to help us live this tragic moment by uniting our feelings with those of Jesus.

Looking to Jesus, of course, does not mean feeling exempt from the duty to speak, to denounce, to call out, as well as to console and encourage. As we heard in last Sunday’s Gospel, it is necessary to render “to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God” (Mt 22:21).

Looking to God, we therefore want, first of all, to render to Caesar what is his.

DUTY TO DENOUNCE VIOLENCE

My conscience and moral duty require me to state clearly that what happened on Oct. 7 in southern Israel is in no way permissible and we cannot but condemn it. There is no reason for such an atrocity. Yes, we have a duty to state this and to denounce it. The use of violence is not compatible with the Gospel, and it does not lead to peace. The life of every human person has equal dignity before God, who created us all in his image.

The same conscience, however, with a great burden on my heart, leads me to state with equal clarity today that this new cycle of violence has brought to Gaza over 5,000 deaths, including many women and children, tens of thousands of wounded, neighborhoods razed to the ground, lack of medicine, lack of water and of basic necessities for over 2 million people. These are tragedies that cannot be understood and which we have a duty to denounce and

PHOTO BY DANIEL IBÁÑEZ | CATHOLIC NEWS AGENCY

Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, patriarch of Jerusalem, issued a letter to his diocese calling for an end to war.

condemn unreservedly. The continuous heavy bombardment that has been pounding Gaza for days will only cause more death and destruction and will only increase hatred and resentment. It will not solve any problem but rather create new ones. It is time to stop this war, this senseless violence.

It is only by ending decades of occupation and its tragic consequences, as well as giving a clear and secure national perspective to the Palestinian people that a serious peace process can begin. Unless this problem is solved at its root, there will never be the stability we all hope for. The tragedy of these days must lead us all, religious, political, civil society, international community, to a more serious commitment in this regard than what has been done so far. This is the only way to avoid other tragedies like the one we are experiencing now. We owe it to the many victims of these days and to those of years past. We do not have the right to leave this task to others.

Yet, I cannot live this extremely painful time without looking upward, without looking to Christ, without the faith that enlightens my view and yours on what we are experiencing, without turning our thoughts to God. We need a Word to accompany us, to comfort and encourage us.

We need it like the air we breathe.

“I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have tribulations, but take courage, I have conquered the world” (Jn 16:33).

We find ourselves on the eve of Jesus’ passion. He addresses these words to his disciples, who will shortly be tossed about,

as if in a storm, before his death. They will panic, scatter, and flee, like sheep without a shepherd.

Yet, this last word of Jesus is an encouragement. He does not say that he shall win, but that he has already won. Even in the turmoil to come, the disciples will be able to have peace. This is not a matter of theoretical irenic peace, nor of resignation to the fact that the world is evil, and we can do nothing to change it. Instead it is about having the assurance that precisely within all this evil, Jesus has already won. Despite the evil ravaging the world, Jesus has achieved a victory and established a new reality, a new order, which after the resurrection will be assumed by the disciples who were reborn in the Spirit.

THE CROSS IS OUR VICTORY

It was on the cross that Jesus won: not with weapons, not with political power, not by great means, nor by imposing himself.

The peace he speaks of has nothing to do with victory over others. He won the world by loving it. It is true that a new reality and a new order begin on the cross. The order and the reality of the one who gives his life out of love. With the Resurrection and the gift of the Spirit, that reality and that order belong to his disciples. To us. God’s answer to the question of why the righteous suffer is not an explanation but a Presence. It is Christ on the cross.

It is on this that we stake our faith today. Jesus in that verse rightly speaks of courage. Such peace, such love, require great courage.

‘WE ARE ALL WITH THEM’

I pray for us all, and in particular for the small community of Gaza, which is suffering most of all. In particular, our thoughts go out to the 18 brothers and sisters who perished recently and to their families whom we know personally. Their pain is great, and yet with every passing day, I realize that they are at peace. They are scared, shaken, upset, but with peace in their hearts. We are all with them, in prayer and concrete solidarity, thanking them for their beautiful witness.

Finally, let us pray for all innocent victims. The suffering of the innocent before God has a precious and redemptive value because it is united with the redemptive suffering of Christ. May their suffering bring peace ever closer!

We are approaching the solemnity of the Queen of Palestine, the patroness of our diocese. The shrine was erected during another time of war, and was chosen as a special place to pray for peace. In these days we will once again reconsecrate our Church and our land to the Queen of Palestine! I ask all churches around the world to join the Holy Father and to join us in prayer, and in the search for justice and peace.

We will not be able to gather all together this year, because the situation does not allow it. But I am sure that the whole diocese will be united on that day in prayer and in solidarity for peace, not worldly peace, but the peace which Christ gives us.

With sincere prayers for all, +Pierbattista Card. Pizzaballa Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem — Catholic News Agency

October 27, 2023 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief Pope appeals for unimpeded aid into Gaza, release of all hostages VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis again called for the release of hostages taken from Israel by Hamas militants and for allowing humanitarian aid into Gaza. “I am always thinking about the serious situation in Palestine and Israel,” the pope said during his weekly general audience in St. Peter’s Square Oct. 25. “I encourage the release of hostages and the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza,” he said, and “I continue to pray for those who suffer, to hope for avenues toward peace in the Middle East and martyred Ukraine and in other regions wounded by war.” The pope spoke the morning after Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, the Vatican’s permanent observer at the United Nations, told the Security Council that although dialogue seems impossible right now, it is the “only viable option for a lasting end to the cycle of violence” that has plagued the Holy Land. More than 200 people were believed to be held by Hamas and other Palestinian militant groups in Gaza after their attacks on Israel Oct. 7. While some aid was coming in from Egypt, Israel has imposed a full blockade on Gaza. The Vatican is seriously concerned about the “unfolding humanitarian disaster in Gaza, which has claimed thousands of lives and has displaced hundreds of thousands of people.” Israel’s “total siege” of the territory is causing “indiscriminate suffering among the population, including due to shortages of food, fuel and medical supplies,” a Vatican spokesperson said.

In final week, several synod cardinals look beyond assembly VATICAN CITY — The synodal process does not stop at listening but should lead to incorporating what was discussed at the synodal assembly into the life of the Catholic Church, said one of the cardinals participating in the synod. “Everything will depend on us returning to our dioceses and putting in practice what we are saying here, (about) what the church should be,” Cardinal Carlos Aguiar Retes of Mexico City said at a Vatican press briefing Oct. 23. “If we only stay at listening and don’t apply our responsibilities to our daily life, well, nothing happens.” Speaking of his experience in Mexico City, Cardinal Aguiar said that since 2021, half of the 416 parishes in his archdiocese implemented parish assemblies for all members of the parish to speak together in a “methodology of consensus, of reciprocal listening, dialogue.”

He said, “They told us bishops what they need to live their faith and transmit it to others.” By living synodality, “I am convinced that it is the way of the church,” he said. “If we do it, we will transmit the faith; if we don’t do it, we will turn into small groups of Catholics” as is happening in some places in the world, the cardinal added.

Gaza Catholic parish mourns fellow Christians killed in blast at Greek Orthodox complex JERUSALEM — For Mother María del Pilar Llerena Vargas, “it was an image that will be very difficult to erase.” The Sister of Charity of the Incarnate Word from Peru, who is serving in the Catholic parish in Gaza, recalled the pain of watching the funeral of Christians killed in an Oct. 19 Orthodox church blast. Children laid to rest their parents and parents buried their little children after an Israel bombing of a Hamas target next to the Greek Orthodox Church

caused a two-story building in the church’s complex to collapse. “Some of those children attended the different activities of our parish.

They were well-known families and very close to us,” Mother María said in a recorded testimony sent to OSV News. One father was uncovered from the rubble with no sign of life, parish priest Father Gabriel Romanelli said in an Oct. 22 WhatsApp update, but protected by his body, his little child was found still alive. Father Romanelli was stranded in Bethlehem when the war broke out on Oct. 7, and has been in constant contact with his parish since then. In an Oct. 20 letter of appeal for donations to provide help to the Gaza parish, Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem CEO Sami El-Yousef said providing the care for the many people who reach the church seeking shelter since the beginning of the war two weeks ago has been “a great responsibility.”

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Amid growing numbers, tensions, Josephine sisters carry out mission to welcome migrants MEXICO CITY — The man with tattoos on his face begged the guard to let him in. The guard was polite but firm: There was no more room at the shelter. It’s been this way, not for months, but for at least two years at the CAFEMIN respite center for women and families, run by a community of Josephine sisters in Mexico City. It’s been this way for a long time at many Catholic-run shelters in cities migrants frequent along a route that now stretches from South America to the U.S. But the recent increase is a wave that many along the route say they’ve never seen before. The bulk of the migrants that CAFEMIN and other shelters see these days come from South America, and many have crossed the treacherous Darién Gap between Colombia and Panama in record numbers.

Researchers Caitlyn Yates and Juan Pappier estimate that more than 81,000 crossed in August, “the highest number on record.” During a late August tour of the CAFEMIN shelter, Josephine Sister María Soledad Morales Ríos told Global Sisters Report that on one recent evening people covered almost every inch of the floor of the facility like a carpet.

Nicaragua expels a dozen priests, sends them to the Vatican, Ortega regime says BUENOS AIRES — Nicaragua has expelled a dozen priests held as political prisoners as the increasingly tyrannical regime continues sending clergy into exile and cracking down on the Catholic Church. The 12 priests boarded a flight for Rome Oct. 18 after an agreement for their release was reached between Nicaragua and the Vatican, according to a statement from the Nicaraguan government. The priests “will be received by the Vatican Secretary of State,” according to the statement, which called the process “an effort to preserve peace and support the Catholic community.” Imprisoned Bishop Rolando Álvarez of Matagalpa, who is serving a 26-year sentence for conspiracy and spreading false information -- after a trial rife with irregularities earlier this year -- was not among the churchmen removed from the Central American country. Bishop Álvarez has repeatedly refused to leave Nicaragua.

His condition is unknown. The agreement, announced the evening of Oct. 18, was “reached with the intercession of high authorities of the Catholic Church in Nicaragua and in the Vatican,” according to the Nicaraguan statement. On Oct. 19, Matteo Bruni, the Vatican’s spokesman, confirmed the Holy See “has been asked to receive” the priests released from prison.

—OSV News

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catholicnewsherald.com | October 27, 2023 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

Deacon Matthew Newsome

The rosary: The whole faith in your pocket

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part from the Holy Mass itself, the rosary is without a doubt the most iconic form of Catholic prayer. In films, all a director has to do to show that characters are Catholic is place a rosary in their hands. In a roundabout way, I can attribute my own conversion to the rosary.

I was raised without any particular religious upbringing, but as a teenager I developed an interest in history, especially in material culture – things such as historical clothing, tools and instruments.

So when I began to date a Catholic girl in college, I became curious about the history of her religion and the material culture associated with it, especially the iconic rosary.

So I did what one did to research a topic in the age before Google.

I bought a book. The particular book I stumbled upon was “Rosary: Mysteries, Meditations and the Telling of the Beads” by Kevin Orlin Johnson. I thought it was going to be a history of a religious object, but I quickly learned that the rosary is much more than a string of beads. It is a prayer.

This book started at the very beginning of that prayer, with the sign of the cross. The first chapter, dedicated to this simple gesture invoking the name of the Triune God, ended up being my first introduction to Trinitarian theology. The next chapter was on the Apostles Creed, which is recited at the beginning of the rosary.

The creed is a capsule statement of the entire Christian faith, like a catechism in a paragraph. That chapter was my first education in the fundamentals of the Christian faith. The next prayer of the rosary is the Our Father, and so there followed a chapter on that.

This prayer that Jesus gave us is like a catechism on how to pray, which was all new to me. There were subsequent chapters on the Hail Mary and the Glory Be, and a whole chapter on the single word, “Amen.”

After all this information covering the basic building blocks of the Christian faith (about 200 pages in!), the author begins to explore the mysteries of the rosary. The events in the life of Christ that we are meant to focus on as we recite each decade are the real heart of this prayer. Like all Marian devotion, the rosary is really Christological. It is a mediation on the life of Christ through the eyes of the Blessed Mother.

The Joyful mysteries begin with the angel announcing to Mary that she would bear in her womb the Son of God. Then follows the Visitation of Mary to Elizabeth, our Mother already carrying out her mission to bring Christ to others. We meditate upon the birth of Jesus at the Nativity when God’s presence in the world is announced to the shepherds by choirs of angels. Forty days later comes the Presentation of the Lord, when Christ enters the holy Temple in Jerusalem in fulfillment of the law, and Simeon proclaims that he has seen the salvation of the world. We finally find Jesus in the Temple at the tender age of 12, teaching the elders with authority.

This book was written before Pope John Paul II introduced the Luminous mysteries in his 2002 Apostolic Letter on the Rosary, so I didn’t read about Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan, his first miracle at Cana, his proclamation of the kingdom of God, his transfiguration in glory, or the institution of the Holy Eucharist. But these mysteries, too, tell of the manifestation of the incarnate Son of God in the world, proclaiming the good news that God is with us.

Instead I next read about the Sorrowful mysteries of Jesus’ life: how He suffered His agony in the garden, was scourged at the pillar like a criminal, was mockingly crowned with thorns, and forced to carry His own cross to Calvary before suffering the worst kind of death the Roman empire could inflict upon Him. Then come the Glorious mysteries that reveal to us what everything preceding them was pointing toward: Jesus’ rising victorious over death and His Ascension into heaven, where He sits at the right hand of the Father. But he does not leave us orphans.

The descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost animates the Church NEWSOME, SEE PAGE 28

Deacon James H. Toner

Centrifugal force, Gaza and Ukraine

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s we political laymen try to understand – and as the world’s statesmen try to resolve – the tragedies in Gaza and the ongoing war in Ukraine, we encounter an element common to all military crises: the danger of centrifugal force.

Because good-hearted citizens may ordinarily view political and military matters through emotional lenses, we may react imprudently to the crises around us. To be sure, I do not mean to criticize “good hearts.” Sheer emotion, however, is rarely a reliable guide to wise practical or political judgment, and uncontrolled emotion runs the risk, as the Catechism of the Catholic Church admonishes us, of being “perverted by the vices” (1768).

This, in short, is the “centrifugal force” to which I refer: things can spin rapidly out of control if and when passion, rather than prudence, rules the day.

We should be able to trust our leaders to provide calm and thoughtful analysis. However, as President Harry Truman once observed, “A statesman is a politician who has been dead for 10 or 15 years.”

Our political leaders, as we know only too well, are hardly immune to the impulsive riptides of the day.

Too often, we turn to our leaders for “fish,” and we receive, instead, “stones” (Mt 7:9).

Sound military planning and execution depend upon the virtue, vision and valor of “capable men” (Ex 18:25). Keen competence, without noble character, is tyrannical; noble character, without keen competence, is torpid. Wisdom – the blending of the two – is not the norm, I fear.

That we should not be blown away by the whirlwind (Eph 4:14) – meaning that we should not overreact – is vitally important. Passions of the moment can seize the minds and hearts of both people and politicians. A kind of synergy can result, leading to a cycle of violence masquerading as a crusade for justice.

The French statesman Charles-Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord (1754-1838) once told us that the essence of wise politics is: “Surtout, pas trop de zele” (“Above all else, not too much zeal”). Be wary, then, of excessive enthusiasm for any cause. Keep in mind that original sin affects all people in all countries.

Conflicts that have been raging, overtly or covertly, for hundreds of years are not going to be solved by some political or military “deus ex machina.”

Diplomatic success is measured in inches not miles, and in decades rather than in days.

The realist observer of global politics studies national interests and not merely motives; evaluates capabilities, not only intentions; and considers factors of power, not just proclamations of political pieties.

Political judgment must, of course, be rooted in what is objectively true, but it is grounded, as well, in what is practicable. Indeed, the statesman nobly attempts to link what ought to be and what can be.

Tentative peace in Gaza, Ukraine or elsewhere will be achieved only by morally serious leaders who can in fact “reason together” (Is 1:18; 43:26).

Without leaders’ ability and desire to reason – to see personalities and events in generous perspective – peace will invariably be thwarted. Unless peace is the consequence of a shared image of justice among negotiators and the governments they represent, peace will remain a chimera.

On the one hand, pressures mount for international “solutions” resulting from catastrophic

military convulsions, which produce only more chaos and immense suffering. On the other hand, international “solutions” result from feckless and utopian appeals to, and for, a comity which demonstrably does not exist (Jer 14:19).

Whether at a ward or world level, politics is the prudence of statecraft guarded and guided by the charity of soulcraft. (By soulcraft, I mean those spiritually nourishing ways, words and works that conform to God’s will.)

Even the best statesmen cannot resolve our most intractable political problems, but can only hope to manage or to mitigate them, trying to relieve sorrows and to stave off disaster, while waiting and (we hope) praying, not for a Machiavellian savior-prince, but for our miraculous Savior-God (Rev 22:15, 20). Only in the fever swamps of centrifugal ideological frenzy will anyone develop heretical and fiery commitment to governmental or military policy as full and final – for politics is about “damage control,” not the source of righteousness and redemption.

In short, do not expect too much. Enemies may be deterred, but not defeated. They may be contained, but not converted. They may be restrained, but not refashioned.

As Ecclesiastes has told us for centuries, there is a time for war, and there is a time for peace (3:8), but we can be, and invariably are, gravely mistaken if we confuse the two. Thus does the Great Seal of the United States feature an eagle which holds in one claw an olive branch for peace and in the other claw the arrows of war. The eagle does not, however, feature a picture of leaders always wise enough to discern the proper “claw” for the proper moment.

In the meantime, we must do what we can to avoid exacerbating circumstances by encouraging wild or unrestrained policies, especially military mania.

International law may sometimes accommodate reprisals as warranted. In the United Kingdom, though, one traffic sign advises motorists: “Do not enter the roundabout until you see your exit.” There is a political lesson there. There is a moral lesson there.

We are surely not mistaken in judging the actions of aggressors and in strongly condemning monstrous acts of terror, and then charting a reasoned course of diplomatic and, if necessary, of military action to contain or to reverse such aggression and to deter or to forestall future acts of terror (CCC 2308-2309).

Be leery, though, of anyone who suggests that irremediable international problems can be resolved only by pacific humanitarian policies or only by military strikes.

The most serious global problems may be managed or manipulated, but they will not be eliminated until the Parousia (1 Cor 16:22). Meanwhile, as Winston Churchill told us: “The day may dawn when fair play, love for one’s fellow-men, respect for justice and freedom, will enable tormented generations to march forth serene and triumphant from the hideous epoch in which we have to dwell. Meanwhile, never flinch, never weary, never despair.”

DEACON JAMES H. TONER serves at Our Lady of Grace Parish in Greensboro. He holds an M.A. in government from William & Mary and a Ph.D. from Notre Dame University in international relations. He is Professor Emeritus of Leadership & Ethics at the U.S. Air War College, Maxwell AFB, Ala. This article originally appeared in different form in “Legatus” May, 2022.

October 27, 2023 | catholicnewsherald.com CATHOLIC NEWS HERALDI

27

Letter to the editor

Heartening to read about prison ministry efforts Elizabeth Scalia

Permitting ourselves enemies comes with rules – for God’s sake and ours

S

ince Oct. 7, I have been trying to understand something incomprehensible. There is a lot that has happened since that bloody date that is incomprehensible, but I don’t mean the planned slaughter of civilians and innocent children in Israel – hatred gone mad and inhumane is not completely incomprehensible, for we see it daily. The sin is “ever before us,” as the psalmist says, though writ small.

History runs on rails of animosity gone murderous, and that’s usually thanks to politicians or polemicists peddling dubious ideologies or, God forgive us, religious mouthpieces hawking their spittle-laced bromides against whomever they decide is evil or profane.

“killing civilians and babies is wrong, full stop.” It’s always wrong, no matter the circumstances.

Perhaps this burns me a bit because, up until 2012, I had (to my ever-living shame) managed to write my share of the “them and they” pieces, usually about politics.

I’m not proud of it, and I am profoundly grateful for the day I suddenly came to understand that I was participating in a sick game, ruinous to my soul.

Theology and ideology rarely mix well.

Often when blended, ideology becomes an idolatry as poisonous to the spirit as hemlock, as destructively explosive to society as TNT. We are currently watching and worrying over the potency of this particularly lethal cocktail as it saturates Israel and Palestine and spills over to France and elsewhere.

None of that is incomprehensible, though. We’ve seen human horror, read human horror, watched and touched and smelled human horror in ways big and small. Human horror has touched each of us, to some degree, all our lives.

What is incomprehensible is watching someone on social media say to someone else (I will paraphrase, here): “For the sake of my God, I will kill you. I will kill all of you, for the sake of my God. Even though my loving and merciful God created all things, including you and including me, I will kill you for his sake.”

It’s beyond my ken. Why would a loving and merciful God ever want one of His creatures to slay another of His creatures for His sake? Yes, I know the Old Testament lines about killing one’s enemies. I’m aware of the psalm verse about smashing the skulls of infants, that ill-phrased, metaphorical call for “justice,” written by broken and imperfect humans. The psalter remains the perfect reflection of the human condition in its every euphoric or awful excess. Yet I’m also aware that such lines are not meant to be isolated, but consumed within the whole counsel of Scripture – where they are countered by the greater, weightier and more consistent demand to love an enemy, to pray for the enemy’s good.

In a broken world, the Creator God recognizes that enemies will come, but that permitting oneself to have them means there are rules. It is good to have such rules. They’re there for the sake of the world, and our own souls. Anything else is, yes, incomprehensible.

‘In a broken world, the Creator God recognizes that enemies will come, but permitting oneself to have them means there are rules. Rules are there for the sake of the world – and our own souls.’

All of us are familiar with unbridled hatred. We even understand how it moves and lives and grows.

Without realizing it, we have become comfortably numb with observing (and thus living amid) sneering hate all around.

It’s usually rendered with just a thin enough coating of civility or plausible deniability, passing through our awareness and prompting just a twinge in the gut or a frown on the forehead. We read it in editorial pages, hear it on punditry panels and observe it on social media. We know that the negative ranting is what drives the economics of communications.

The language of love may be consoling or uplifting, but it just doesn’t get those subscriptions, those ratings or those “like” buttons popping as much as a dependable hit of hate does, offered just when people really need it. A priest leads a Eucharistic procession in New York City? Just run to Twitter (now called X) and find the nag you know will mock it, if that’s how you roll, or click on anyone else whose take you believe will affirm your own feelings for you. Hamas launches a slaughter on Israeli civilians? Well, just turn to the cable news channel that will say whatever you need to hear about that so you can sleep comfortably at night.

God help you, though, if you’re looking for a voice to tell you anything beyond

ELIZABETH SCALIA is culture editor for OSV News.

Two recent issues of the Catholic News Herald published articles about prisoners and prison ministry: “Diocese prison retreat brings hope and forgiveness” and “Diocese and parishes ramping up prison ministry” (Sept. 1, 2023) and “Florida inmate’s lawyers, bishops, advocates urge stay on Oct. 3 execution” (Sept. 29, 2023).

It was heartening to read about these efforts to live the gospel message in Matthew 25:35: “For I was ... in prison and you visited me.”

Thank you to those who witness to mercy and justice regarding God’s sons and daughters in the prison system.

There are also efforts among some

Catholics in the Diocese of Charlotte to abolish the death penalty. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that “the death penalty is inadmissible because it is an attack on the inviolability and dignity of the person ...” (2267).

This group works to provide restorative justice as an alternative to executions.

There are 140 people on death row in North Carolina – among 2,333 people on death row across the United States.

If you would like to join this ministry of prayer, education and advocacy, please contact me at amcdcochran@att.net.

ANNE MCDONALD COCHRAN is a member of St. Peter Parish in Charlotte.

Letters policy 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 and factual accuracy.

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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‘War, any war that there is in the world is a defeat.

War is always a defeat; it is a destruction of human fraternity.’

Pope Francis

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catholicnewsherald.com | October 27, 2023 CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

NEWSOME FROM PAGE 26

with the Spirit of God and empowers the Apostles to carry out Christ’s mission to make disciples of all nations. And what is the goal of that mission? For us to share in His glory. This is what the final two mysteries are all about.

Mary’s Assumption into heaven and her coronation prefigure what Christ desires for each of us; to bring us to heaven with Him, body and soul, so that we may share in his reign. What we hope for, Mary, conceived without sin, already enjoys in its fullness.

Chapter after chapter of this book opened up to me the mysteries of salvation. My curiosity about a string of beads resulted in my first systematic education in the Christian religion. This is what the rosary truly is. It’s the whole Christian faith given to us in a form you can carry in your pocket! This is why it is recommended by the saints and by Our Lady herself. The holy rosary, when it is prayed mindfully, is nothing other than a meditation on the salvific actions of God’s Son in the world for us.

I wish I could say that after reading this book, I immediately developed a devotion to the rosary. I did not. After this initial introduction to the mysteries of the faith, I confess that I felt more intimidated than anything else. It all seemed like too much.

But I was hooked. I was inspired to learn more, and, looking back, I can say that it was this introduction to the mysteries of the rosary that set the trajectory for the rest of my life.

The rosary is a private devotion and as

‘The rosary is a private devotion and as such it is not required by the Church that we pray it. But knowing what it is, why would you not want to?’ such it is not required by the Church that we pray it. But knowing what it is, why would you not want to?

I encourage you during this Month of the Holy Rosary to pick it up – maybe for the first time in a long time, or maybe just with a renewed purpose – to meditate upon its sacred mysteries, engraving them on your heart, so that in your own life you might truly imitate what they contain and obtain what they promise, which is nothing short of glory.

DEACON MATTHEW NEWSOME, Catholic campus minister at Western Carolina University and regional faith formation coordinator for the Smoky Mountain Vicariate, is the author of “The Devout Life: A Modern Guide to Practical Holiness with St. Francis de Sales,” available from Sophia Institute Press.

EL SEÑOR VIENE DE LA PÁGINA 18

el milagro de usar el vestido de la gracia, de la libertad, del amor, de los valores profundos, de la paz, de la fidelidad, para ser auténticos cristianos miembros de la Iglesia”.

Al término de la Misa se invitó Jaime Hurtado, colombiano y miembro de la hermandad, a dirigir unas palabras desde el ambón. Hurtado dijo que fue invitado a participar de la hermandad hace cinco años, donde encontró “que no hay diferencias entre países, que somos uno solo en el Señor”.

Posteriormente, ya en los exteriores del templo, el Padre Blas bendijo el anda y a los cargadores, para luego tomar un lugar entre ellos y soportar parte de la carga sobre sus hombros.

La banda de músicos profesionales proveniente de Maryland, especialmente contratada por la hermandad, tomó su emplazamiento detrás de la sagrada imagen, y bajo los compases del himno tradicional del Señor de los Milagros se inició el recorrido procesional al que abría paso una nube de incienso lanzada por las hermanas sahumadoras.

Durante el trayecto al interior del estacionamiento, la imagen recibió diversos homenajes, incluyendo cantos y danzas. En algunas de las paradas de relevo, los padres acercaron a sus pequeños para que reciban la bendición del Señor al ser acercados a la imagen.

ENROLLMENT FROM PAGE 13

n Our Lady of the Assumption School, 704531-0067; www.olacatholic.org n St. Mark School, Huntersville; 704-7665000; stmarkcatholicschool.net n Holy Trinity Middle School, 704-527-7822; www.htcms.org n Charlotte Catholic High School, 704-5431127; www.charlottecatholic.org n Christ the King High School: 704-7994400; www.ctkchs.org Prospective families can also contact the MACS Admissions Office at 704-370-3273 or admissions@rcdoc.org.

PAROCHIAL SCHOOLS Outside the Charlotte area, 11 other Catholic schools in the diocese will soon begin enrolling students, at elementary, middle and high schools. Contact the specific schools to check for start dates and application details, and to schedule visits. n Asheville Catholic School, Asheville. 828252-7896; www.ashevillecatholic.org n Bishop McGuinness High School, Kernersville. 336-564-1010; www.bmhs.us

MASS FROM PAGE 5

Michael Dickerson, a member of St. Gabriel Parish who regularly attends daily Mass at the cathedral, said it was a “pleasant surprise” to see the bishop.

“It’s always good to hear him speak, and I especially thought the homily about the Eucharist being the summit of our faith

FE SIN FRONTERAS

Lourdes Hoxit, miembro de la hermandad del Señor de los Milagros de la Iglesia Santa Maria Magdalena en Simpsonville, Carolina del Sur, dijo que cada año participan con gusto en la procesión que organiza Charlotte.

“Lo más hermoso es la oportunidad que nos regala Dios de estar cerca del Perú con esta tradición tan bella de venerarlo.

Cada octubre, junto a hermanos de muchas nacionalidades, estamos presentes con el Señor de los Milagros. Este es el Señor de los Milagros de todos, un Cristo que es patrón de todos los inmigrantes. Es el Cristo nuestro que está vivo y que a través de esta veneración recibe todo nuestro amor y agradecimiento por los favores que nos concede todos los días. Esto es más que una hermandad, no hay fronteras para el Cristo Morado”, puntualizó.

Hebert y Cindy Tixe, peruanos residentes en Charlotte, dijeron que asisten desde hace tres años a la procesión que se organiza en esta ciudad. Ellos estaban acompañados de la madre de Hebert, Rosario Ugarte, que se encontraba en silla de ruedas. “Siempre he sido devota del Señor de los Milagros”, dijo, pero su devoción se incrementó cuando una de sus hijas emigró a Estados Unidos. “Le rogué que me la cuide, que la llevara sana y salva.

Y así lo hizo. Es un Señor muy cumplidor”, añadió.

Más online En www.facebook.com/CNHEspañol: Encontrará un video e imágenes de la procesión.

n Immaculata School, Hendersonville. 828693-3277; www.immac.org n Immaculate Heart of Mary School, High Point. 336-887-2613; www.ihm-school.com n Our Lady of Grace School, Greensboro. 336275-1522; www.olgsch.org. n Our Lady of Mercy School, Winston-Salem; 336-722-7204; www.ourladyofmercyschool.org n Sacred Heart School, Salisbury; 704-6332841; www.salisburycatholicschool.org n St. Leo School, Winston-Salem; 336-7488252; www.stleocatholic.com n St. Michael School, Gastonia; 704-8654382; www.stmichaelcs.com n St. Pius X School, Greensboro; 336-2739865; www.spxschool.com

AFFILIATE An affiliate of the diocesan school system is Canongate Catholic High School in Arden, which offers a classical education. More information is available at 828-712-8294 or at canongatecatholic.org.

FINANCIAL AID Scholarship opportunities and financial aid are available to qualified families, making Catholic education more accessible to all. Go online to: www.discovermacs.org/financialaid or call your local Catholic school to explore the best financial aid options for your family.

was a great inspiration,” he said.

Lily Haynie, a member of the cathedral parish, appreciated the chance to share the occasion with Bishop Jugis.

“He reminds us of what makes us truly Catholic, and he has helped make the Church here in the Diocese of Charlotte strong,” she said. “My faith has never been stronger than it has become since I have lived in this diocese under his leadership.”