Commemorative Issue 2023

COMME M O RAT IVE

IS S UE

“ONE BREAD,

ONE BODY” ( 1

Co r

1 0 : 1 7 )

South Texas

Catholic SERVING THE CHURCH IN THE DIOCESE OF CORPUS CHRISTI

Keep up with the faith at

southtexascatholic.com VOL. 59 NO. 3 Publisher Bishop Michael Mulvey, STL DD Director of Communications and Public Relations Katia Uriarte Philipello kuriarte@diocesecc.org Assistant Director of Communications and Public Relations Jesse DeLeon jdeleon@diocesecc.org Managing Editor Susanne Janssen sjanssen@diocesecc.org Theological Consultant Very Rev. Richard Libby, Chancellor rlibby@diocesecc.org Communications Specialist Adel Sauceda asauceda@diocesecc.org Social Media Coordinator and Videographer Elizabeth Morales emorales@diocesecc.org Broadcast Technical Director Richard Luna rluna@diocesecc.org Communications Administrative Assistant AnaLisa Iber aiber@diocesecc.org Correspondents Rebecca Esparza and Jessica Rohr Translator/Correspondent Gloria Romero Graphic design Alexis Harborth Contributors: Emily Salazar, Chloe Rodriguez, Alex Oldroyd, Very Rev. Christopher Becerra

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S O U T H T E X A S C AT H O L I C

INSIDE

3 | INTERVIEW FROM THE BISHOP: Reflections on the Feast of Corpus Christi and the ordination of two new priests for our Diocese 5 | E NT R E V I S TA C O N E L O B I S P O : Reflexiones sobre la fiesta del Corpus Christi y la ordenación de dos nuevos sacerdotes para nuestra diócesis 7 | MEET THE NEW EDITOR: Susanne Janssen, originally from Germany, is the new member of the Communications team 8 | “ONE BREAD, ONE BODY” (1 COR 10:17): The Feast of Corpus Christi 2023: A day of prayer and reflection culminated in a solemn procession 1 2 | BEING THE BODY OF CHRIST… TOGETHER: Why Isabel Jones volunteers to help with the Corpus Christi procession 14 | IT BRINGS CHRIST TO EVERYONE: On the meaning and the making of the new monstrance 16 | “MAKING US ONE BODY, ONE SPIRIT IN CHRIST” : We asked participants of the Corpus Christi Procession what the Eucharist means to them 1 8 | IN THE FRONT ROW OF THE PROCESSION: Behind the scenes of the diocese’s first enhanced broadcast.

20 | AT A CERTAIN POINT, EVERYTHING FELL INTO PLACE: Fr. Thomas Swierc’s journey to the priesthood.

22 | E N C I E R TO P U NTO, TO D O C AYÓ E N S U LU G A R : El camino del Padre Thomas Swierc hacia el sacerdocio 24 | FA LLI N G I N LOV E W IT H T H E M A S S : How the words of Fr. Raymond Pendleton’s mother were pivotal for his vocation 26 | M E E N A M O R É D E L A M I S A : Las palabras de la madre del Padre Raymond Pendleton fueron fundamentales para su vocación 28 | A C O U R AG E O U S “ Y E S ”: Bishop Michael Mulvey ordained three young men to the priesthood 32 | C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S t o t h e g r a d u a t e s of In c a r n a t e Wo rd A c a d e m y 34 | C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S t o t h e g r a d u a t e s of S a in t J o h n P a ul II Hi g h S ch o o l

ON THE COVER Fr. James G. Stembler gives the solemn blessing at Sacred Heart Church

INTERVIEW WITH THE BISHOP

“Give of ourselves in everyday life”

S

TC: The two main topics of this issue – the

I think the Eucharist brings me to an awareness of

Feast of Corpus Christi and the ordination of

the words of St. John: “If anyone says, ‘I love God,’

three priests, two of them for the Diocese of

but hates his brother, he is a liar; for whoever does

Corpus Christi – are linked through the Eucharist.

not love a brother whom he has seen cannot love

What does the Eucharist mean to you?

God whom he has not seen” (1 Jn 4:20). I cannot

Bishop Mulvey: I have been a priest for 48 years.

The Eucharist has been and always will be the

say that I love and worship Jesus in the Eucharist if I deny loving Him in every neighbor.

center of my life and my reason for being a priest.

Repeating the words at Mass each day, “This is my body” and “This is my blood,” confirm who I am and who I am called to be each day. The words of consecration call me into a profound union with God, and they reveal the communal nature of the Eucharist, linking me to the people of God.

STC: Is there a way that each Catholic can be Eucharist for those around them?

Bishop Mulvey: The problem with our society today is the “me culture,” an individualistic existence that keeps us imprisoned and inside ourselves.

The Eucharist, on the other hand, is the memorial

As I prepare to celebrate the Eucharist, I

of the greatest love: God comes to us. Thus, we

remind myself that this is the memorial of the

learn not to set limits and boundaries on our love

greatest love: God is going beyond himself, giving

for others but love with Jesus’ mind and heart.

us His Son in sacrifice. I also recall that if I am to

We can learn about Jesus’ heart in the

celebrate this supreme act of God’s love, then I must

Gospel. He is showing us how to love in every

be prepared, with my human limitations, to love in

situation and every encounter. His words are to

the same way. Receiving the Eucharist motivates

be received with the same solemnity we show

me to leave myself behind and be present to others.

receiving the Eucharist.

ONE BRE AD, ONE BODY

CO M M EM O R AT I V E I S S U E

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STC: The Eucharist is real, not an illusion; however,

them on their faith journey; we may be addressed

it needs our collaboration to unfold its power. How

as “Father” but have an attitude of “brothers.”

should we live so that we can be transformed more

The second thing I would say to our two new

and more by the Body and Blood of Christ?

priests is to stand together with the presbyterate

Bishop Mulvey: The Eucharist is a sacrament of

of the Diocese of Corpus Christi, especially with

the real presence of God. And His presence comes

the bishop. One of the principal weaknesses today

about through the transforming grace of the Holy

in Church and society is the attitude that each of

Spirit. In the Epiclesis of the Mass, the priest places

us can make it on our own. We all have talents,

his hands over the elements of bread and wine

opinions, and ideas – but they are given to us to

and gently calls down the Holy Spirit (like the

strengthen the whole. None of us should promote

dewfall) to transform them into the Body and Blood

ourselves as better than others.

of the Lord.

And the third piece of advice is to have

Obviously, then, to be transformed requires

an ecclesial heart. Obedience calls us to love one

the Holy Spirit. I cannot transform myself, nor can

another with fraternal trust. In my experience

you. We should always seek out the Holy Spirit

as a priest and bishop, obedience is the most

whom the Father sent to be with us. The Holy Spirit

liberating of all virtues. Finding the will of God

guides us to all truth found in God’s Word. If we

by listening to His voice in my legitimate elder

want to be transformed, we must cooperate with

has always given me true joy and freedom.

the Holy Spirit and take on the mind of Christ.

To the people of God, I would say, “Love your

St. Paul exhorted the Philippians to make

priests, be close to them, but don’t exalt them.” St.

his joy complete by being united. He wrote: “Do

Augustine said when he was made a bishop, “With

nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather,

you, I am a Christian; for you, I am a bishop.” Perhaps

humbly regard others as more important than

you could say: “For us, you are a priest; together,

yourselves, each looking out not for his interests,

we are disciples of the Lord.”

but everyone for those of others.” (Phil 2:4-5). It seems he was calling them to be that eucharistic self together. And this is what we need to be today.

STC: With Father Raymond Pendleton and Father Thomas Swierc, we have two new priests in our diocese. What is your advice for them, and how can each member of the diocese help priests stay faithful and happy?

our readers?

Bishop Mulvey: I shared this quote from the Gospel of Mark with the priests this summer during our Fraternity Days, “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s” (Mk 12:17). You and I cannot live in this world serving God and mammon; we cannot have both.

Bishop Mulvey: In my homily during the

Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life. To

Mass of ordination, I spoke about Saint

follow Him by not putting other gods in front of

Catherine of Siena’s advice regarding self-

Him is a daily conversion for all of us.

knowledge: “From self-knowledge flows the stream of humility, which never seizes on the mere report, nor takes offense at anything.”

As priests, we are taken from among the community; we are not better than anyone else. My advice is to be present to people and accompany 4

STC: Is there anything else you want to share with

S O U T H T E X A S C AT H O L I C

ENTREVISTA CON NUESTRO OBISPO MICHAEL MULVEY

“Dar de nosotros mismos cada dίa de nuestra vida”

S

TC: Los dos temas principales de esta

la Eucaristía me motiva para olvidarme de

edición son: La Fiesta de Corpus Christi y la

mí mismo y estar presente para los demás.

Ordenación de tres sacerdotes, dos de ellos

La Eucaristía aviva mi conciencia con

para la Diócesis de Corpus Christi. Acontecimientos

respecto a las palabras de San Juan: “Si alguno

que hablan del vínculo directo con la Eucaristía.

dice: ‘Yo amo a Dios, pero odia a su hermano, es

¿Qué es para usted la Eucaristía?

un mentiroso; pues quien no ama a un hermano

Obispo Mulvey: He sido sacerdote durante 48 años.

La Eucaristía ha sido y siempre será el centro de mi vida y la razón por la que soy sacerdote.

Repetir dίa a dίa en cada Misa las palabras de Jesús “Este es mi cuerpo” y “Esta es mi sangre”, confirman quién soy y quién estoy llamado a ser.

Las palabras de la Consagración me llaman a una profunda unión con Dios y me revelan la naturaleza comunitaria de la Eucaristía, vinculándome al pueblo de Dios.

Mientras me preparo para celebrar la Eucaristía, recuerdo en mi interior, que voy a

a quien ha visto, no puede amar a Dios a quien no ha visto’ (1 Juan 4, 20). No puedo decir que amo y rindo culto a Jesús en la Eucaristía, si me niego a amarlo en cada uno de mis semejantes.

STC: ¿Hay alguna manera en que cada Católico pueda ser Eucaristía para los que le rodean?

Obispo Mulvey: El problema de nuestra sociedad actual es la “cultura del yo”, una existencia individualista que nos mantiene aprisionados, encajonados dentro de nosotros mismos. La Eucaristía, por el contrario, es el memorial del más grande Amor: Dios viene a nosotros, para que aprendamos a no poner límites ni barreras

celebrar el memorial del inmenso amor de Dios

en nuestro amor por los demás, sino que sepamos

que yendo más allá de sí mismo, se nos entrega

amar con la mente y el corazón de Jesús.

en el sacrificio de su Hijo.

Podemos aprender a cerca del corazón de

También recuerdo que si he de celebrar

Jesús en el Evangelio. Él nos muestra cómo amar en

este acto supremo del amor de Dios, debo estar

cada situación y en cada encuentro. Sus palabras,

preparado, para amar de la misma manera,

deben ser recibidas con la misma solemnidad con

dentro de las limitaciones humanas. Recibir

que recibimos la Eucaristía.

UN PAN , UN CUERPO

ED I C I Ó N CO N M EM O R AT I VA

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STC: La Eucaristía es real, no es una ilusión; sin

Mi consejo es estar presente con las personas y

embargo, necesita de nuestra colaboración para

acompañarlas en lo que llamamos el camino de la

desplegar su poder. ¿Cómo podemos vivir para

fe; podemos ser llamados “Padre” pero debemos

ser transformados cada vez más por el Cuerpo y

tener preferentemente, una actitud de “hermanos”.

la Sangre de Cristo?

Obispo Mulvey: La Eucaristía es un sacramento de

nuevos sacerdotes, es que se mantengan unidos

la presencia real de Dios. Y su presencia se produce

al presbiterio de la Diócesis de Corpus Christi,

por la gracia transformadora del Espíritu Santo. En

especialmente con el Obispo. Una de las principales

la Epiklesis (Invocación) de la Misa, el sacerdote

debilidades de la Iglesia y de la sociedad que se

coloca sus manos sobre los elementos del pan y del

suele tener hoy en dίa, es esa actitud del poder

vino y suavemente invoca al Espíritu Santo (como

hacerlo todo por uno mismo. Todos tenemos

cae una gota de rocío) para transformarlos en el

talentos, opiniones e ideas, pero tienen valor para

Cuerpo y la Sangre del Señor.

fortalecer el todo. Ninguno de nosotros debería

Obviamente, que para ser transformados

promoverse como mejor que los demás.

se requiere del Espíritu Santo. Yo no puedo

Y el tercer consejo es tener un corazón

transformarme, ni tú tampoco. Si queremos ser

eclesial. La obediencia nos llama a amarnos unos

transformados, debemos cooperar con el Espíritu

a otros con confianza fraterna. En mi experiencia

Santo asumiendo la mentalidad de Cristo. San

como sacerdote y obispo, la obediencia es la

Pablo exhortó a los Filipenses a lograr una alegría

más liberadora de todas las virtudes. Encontrar

completa, permaneciendo todos unidos. Escribió:

la voluntad de Dios escuchando su voz en mi

“No hagan nada por egoísmo o vanagloria personal;

superior legítimo, siempre me ha dado verdadera

sino con humilde corazón considerando los unos a

alegría y libertad.

los otros como superiores, no mirando cada uno por su propia ventaja, sino por la de los demás. Tengan en sus corazones la misma actitud, los mismos sentimientos que tuvo Cristo Jesús…”. (Filipenses 2:3-5). Me parece que los estaba llamando a ser ese ‘Yo Eucarístico’ todos juntos. Y esto es lo que necesitamos hacer hoy.

STC: Con el Padre Raymond Pendleton y el Padre Thomas Swierc, tenemos dos nuevos sacerdotes en nuestra Diócesis. ¿Cuál es su consejo para ellos y cómo puede cada miembro de la Iglesia ayudar a los sacerdotes a mantenerse fieles y felices?

Obispo Mulvey: En mi homilía durante la Misa de ordenación, hablé del consejo de Santa Catalina de Siena con respecto al autoconocimiento: “Del autoconocimiento fluye la corriente de la humildad, que nunca se aferra al simple informe, ni se ofende por nada.”

Como sacerdotes, somos tomados de entre la comunidad; no somos mejores que nadie.

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Lo segundo que les diría a nuestros dos

S O U T H T E X A S C AT H O L I C

Al pueblo de Dios le diría: “Amen a sus sacerdotes, estén cerca de ellos, pero no los exalten”.

San Agustín, cuando fue nombrado obispo, dijo: “Contigo soy cristiano; para ti, soy un Obispo”. Tal vez se podría decir: “Para nosotros, eres un sacerdote; pero juntos, somos discípulos del Señor.”

STC: ¿Hay algo más que quisiera compartir con nuestros lectores?

Obispo Mulvey: Compartí esta cita del Evangelio de San Marcos con los sacerdotes este verano durante nuestros Días de Fraternidad, “Denle al César lo que es del César y a Dios lo que es de Dios” (Mc 12:17).

Tú y yo no podemos vivir en este mundo sirviendo a Dios y a las riquezas; no podemos tener ambos.

Jesús es el Camino, la Verdad y la Vida.

Seguirlo sin anteponer otros dioses frente a Él, es una conversión diaria para todos nosotros.

Meet our new editor!

W

ith this issue of South Texas Catholic, I am happy and honored to introduce myself to you as the

new Managing Editor. My name is Susanne Janssen, and I arrived here in Corpus Christi at the beginning of May. Originally, I am from Germany, used to long winters and pine trees … However, I love the beach and the ocean – but first and foremost, the people here in the Diocese of Corpus Christi who have welcomed me with open arms.

For the last ten years, I have been the Editor of Living City magazine, a publication committed to building bridges in our divided society.

parishes. While working on this issue, I had the

I have been a journalist and editor for over 25

opportunity to get to know some volunteers, families,

years, covering local politics and crime and writing

and our newly ordained priests, and it was a gift to get

about Hollywood stars and innovators as a German

to know their faith stories.

correspondent. But working for a Catholic publication allows me to communicate what truly matters and approach the questions that go beyond the daily hype of the media.

These inspiring life experiences need to be shared because in journeying together, we can help each other in moments when our faith is tested. I’ve experienced that many times: my sisters and brothers

Therefore, I am excited about this opportunity

opened a path to a deeper understanding of my faith

to work for STC, keeping all of us connected in the

when we could share how God is working in our hearts.

diocese through the magazine and the website. With

Let me know your stories, your questions and your

my team, I want to inform you about what’s happening

ideas! I look forward to getting to know every corner

here in the chancery and share the vibrant life of your

of our diocese!

¡Conoce a nuestra nueva editora!

A

través de esta edición del South Texas Catholic,

Por lo tanto, estoy entusiasmada con esta

quiero presentarme y decir que me siento feliz y

oportunidad de trabajar para STC, manteniéndonos

honrada al recibir el nuevo cargo de: Gerente Editora.

conectados en la Diócesis, a través de la revista y el sitio

Mi nombre es Susanne Janssen y llegué aquí a Corpus

web. Junto a mi equipo de trabajo, quiero informarles

Christi, a principios de Mayo. Provengo originalmente de

sobre lo que está pasando aquí, en la cancillería y

Alemania, estoy acostumbrada a los largos inviernos ...

compartir la vida vibrante de sus parroquias.

Sin embargo, amo la playa y el océano, pero ante todo y sobre todo a la gente de aquí y de la Diócesis que me han recibido con los brazos abiertos.

Mientras trabajaba en este tema, tuve la oportunidad de conocer a algunos voluntarios, a familias y también a nuestros sacerdotes recién ordenados. Fue

Durante los últimos diez años, he sido editora de

un regalo conocer sus historias de fe. Estas experiencias

la revista Living City, una publicación comprometida en

de vida inspiradoras deben compartirse, porque al

crear y construir puentes entre nuestra sociedad dividida.

caminar juntos, podemos ayudarnos unos a otros en

He sido periodista y editora durante más de 25

los momentos en que nuestra fe se pone a prueba.

años. He estado cubriendo la nota política local y el crimen, también he escrito sobre las estrellas e innovadores de Hollywood. Pero trabajar para una publicación

Lo he experimentado muchas veces: mis hermanas y hermanos abrieron un camino hacia una comprensión más profunda de mi fe, cuando pudimos compartir la

católica me permite comunicar lo que verdaderamente

manera en que Dios está obrando en nuestros corazones.

importa, así como abordar las cuestiones que van más

¡Déjame saber tus historias, tus preguntas y tus

allá del bombo diario de los medios de comunicación.

ideas! ¡Espero conocer cada rincón de nuestra Diócesis!

ONE BRE AD, ONE BODY

CO M M EM O R AT I V E I S S U E

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S O U T H T E X A S C AT H O L I C

“ONE BREAD, ONE BODY” (1 COR 10:17)

A day of prayer and reflection culminated in a solemn procession

BY SUSANNE JANSSEN

T

he feast of Corpus Christi is all about Jesus’ presence in the Eucharist and our relationship with him. Hundreds of participants of our diocese came together for a day of prayer and reflection, ending with a procession in downtown Corpus Christi.

Despite the scorching heat, many families, parish groups, individuals and volunteers showed up to bring Jesus into the streets. And for the first time, people who could not be there in person were able to follow a professional live broadcast with guests, interviews and video clips.

The day started with a solemn Mass at noon with Bishop Michael Mulvey in the

A special blessing. After walking and praying in the heat, the solemn procession ended at the Corpus Christi Cathedral

ONE BRE AD, ONE BODY

CO M M EM O R AT I V E I S S U E

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Photos by Susanne Janssen, Fr. Chris Becerra.

Mariachi singers Tres Equis from Kingsville

Many volunteers handed out water

Cathedral. He asked the participants, “Who is Jesus Christ in your life? Only you can answer this question.”

The Eucharist is a gift of God to us, “as the Fathers of the Church said, ‘He became what we are (human) so that we can become what he is.’” The bishop invited all to let Jesus be more a part of their daily life: “Let him become your friend; that’s what He is.”

The feast day ended with the Benediction - the evening prayer of the Catholic Church - in the Cathedral

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S O U T H T E X A S C AT H O L I C

“Let Jesus become your friend:” Bishop Michael Mulvey celebrated the noon mass and reflected on the meaning of the Eucharist in our lives

Only in relationships can we grow, not on our own.

The afternoon continued with confessions, an exhibition about Eucharistic miracles in St. Joseph’s Hall, and reflections by the Bishop, Father Peter Marsalek, SOLT and the Rector of the Cathedral, Father Pete Elizardo.

Bishop Mulvey invited the faithful to exchange our hearts for God’s heart, “that’s the dynamic of the Eucharist.” The goal is not an easier life on earth but to strive for holiness: “Each time we receive the Eucharist, we remember that we are on a journey to see God face to face.”

After joining in vespers, the Church’s evening prayer, the procession started with stops at the Mother Teresa Shelter, Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Nueces County jail, accompanied by prayers as well as hymns sung in different languages including Malayalam (from India) and Spanish. The day ended with a solemn blessing on the steps of the Cathedral, followed by Benediction inside the Cathedral.

ONE BRE AD, ONE BODY

CO M M EM O R AT I V E I S S U E

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Being the Body of Christ… together WHY ISABEL JONES VOLUNTEERS TO HELP WITH THE CORPUS CHRISTI PROCESSION

BY RICHARD LUNA up, every town or village would have a procession in honor of the feast. But she didn’t give in. She asked her priest and friends who were working for the Church why there wasn’t a big public celebration - because it was paused for some years and substituted by parish celebrations.

Her gentle nudging, together with others, finally had success – the revamp of the Corpus Christi celebration came together.

When asked if she wanted to be part of the preparatory committee, her answer was affirmative: “I said, ‘Sure, yes, of course.’ We are blessed to have that name in our city. I think God does so much for us. Of course, he doesn’t need us to do anything for him.

But I do love Him, and I want to show my gratitude. We should do something to celebrate him.”

This was in 2019. Isabel participated in a few meetings and volunteered to prepare one altar on the way. Dreaming about the most beautiful paper flowers,

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Isabel Jones with her husband Lee, daughter Zoey and dog Max

as she remembered them f rom her childhood in Mexico, together with two

sabel Jones had some big expectations. She

I

friends she spent an entire day crafting

had always loved the feast of Corpus Christi,

colorful flowers. In the end, they prepared the

and when she moved to the town bearing its

altar in front of the county jail, remembering

name in 2000, she figured the feast would be even

St. Maximilian Kolbe, the Polish priest who

bigger and more elaborate than ever. The reality

volunteered to die in place of a family father in a

was quite different.

concentration camp.

“I was shocked to find out that there was

They tried to find the right place where both

no big celebration,” she said. No public procession,

the inmates and the participants of the procession

no flowers or blessings. In Mexico, where she grew

could see the altar. Yet, while they had found their

S O U T H T E X A S C AT H O L I C

favorite spot, the police were asking for the permit – they had to move the altar several times until everyone was satisfied. Isabel stayed focused on the reason for the procession and its meaning for people’s lives: “It doesn’t matter who we are or the mistakes we make, His grace is stronger and bigger than that. Just knowing that we are extremely loved They finally put the giant flowers that they had prepared. Isabel remembers, “As we were getting all these things ready, many inmates started knocking on their windows, asking us, ‘What are you doing out there?’ And when they realized that we were decorating an altar, they would raise their rosaries on the windows and show us they were praying with us.”

While waiting for the procession, Isabel

Courtesy of Isabel Jones (2)

gives meaning to our lives.”

Freedom in Christ: The altar in front of Nueces County jail was dedicated to Saint Maximilian Kolbe

realized: “That’s part of being the body of Christ.

a tough moment by ourselves, and maybe

They are also part of the body of Christ. We’re all

nobody cares. But you know you are important

in this together.” And when the procession with

when you’re in a group or a community. The

the Holy Eucharist approached the area, she

talents and gifts that God has given us are for the

remembered that there was total silence in the

service of others, and what they receive can be

presence of God. “It doesn’t matter what you have

of service to us. We come together as the body

done in the past; it doesn’t matter who you are. At

of Christ to support and encourage each other.”

the end of the day, we are all looking for God for

This year, Isabel was not able to prepare

the same reason; we all want to feel loved.”

Isabel walked with her daughter Zoey in the second year: “She was excited to see people coming together from different languages and

an altar because she was out of town before the feast. However, she volunteered that day. “And in this way, other people can make this experience to prepare an altar for the Eucharist.”

cultures.” It was a deep sense of peace for Isabel herself, and she felt gratitude “that God is so close to us and available for us.”

In the end, that’s what the feast of Corpus Christi means to her – a tangible sign of God’s love: “I feel like every single time that we get a chance

Lea la versión en español de este artículo aquí: https://diocesecc.org/news/ser-el-cuerpo-de-cristo-juntos

to either go on a procession or to go to receive the Eucharist is an invitation that’s coming from God.” Why should someone join the procession?

“It’s another way that God is trying to get to us so that He can bless us and let us know that He is present,” says Isabel, “we are never alone.” It’s experiencing community. “Sometimes we’re going through life thinking we are going through ONE BRE AD, ONE BODY

CO M M EM O R AT I V E I S S U E

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It brings Christ to everyone

BY JESSE DELEON

A multicultural beauty. The monstrance features a Celtic and a Brazilian cross, as well as twelve ruby-colored stones that represent the twelve apostles

T

he word monstrance may suggest

Congress by Bishop Michael Mulvey.

many different images. For the

Following its blessing by Bishop Mulvey

Catholic faithful, a monstrance

at last year’s Feast of Corpus Christi, the

is an open or transparent receptacle in

monstrance has served as a beautiful vessel

which the consecrated Host is exposed for

in which the soul and divinity of Jesus are

Eucharistic adoration or Benediction of the

adored, worshiped, and glorified.

Blessed Sacrament.

14

“This monstrance was designed by a

Prior to last year’s Feast of Corpus

committee of priests who came together,

Christi, the creation of a new monstrance

and under their direction, Brad Snyder and

was commissioned for the 2022 Eucharistic

Associates created the design,” said Father

S O U T H T E X A S C AT H O L I C

Pete Elizardo about the creative process of

While the monstrance has played a vital role

making this monstrance.

in the Feast of Corpus Christi’s many events,

After the priests finalized the plans for the design of the monstrance, the building process began. It was assembled in Guadalajara, Mexico, and Jaime Reyna, who was the Director of Multicultural Ministries for the diocese at the time, was entrusted with overseeing its production and eventual transport to Corpus Christi.

“I think it came to be exactly what

it will soon travel throughout the diocese, making stops at various parishes before it returns to the Corpus Christi Cathedral in time for next year’s Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ. And while the creation of the monstrance has a fascinating history behind it, it has much history ahead of it as it continues to bring Christ to the diocese and to the world.

we had hoped,” says Fr. Elizardo.

The monstrance features a Celtic cross, a circular nimbus, and a Brazilian cross, as well as twelve ruby-colored stones, which represent the twelve apostles. It also has a silver rendering of the Last Supper at its base. The undeniable beauty of the monstrance is fitting, as it carries the body of Jesus and makes it possible for so many to encounter him through adoration, reflection, and prayer.

“The monstrance can never have that oneness with the Eucharist as we can,” says Fr. Elizardo. “The hope is that by coming to adore the Lord, it our soul to really have that oneness with Him that we can have. That is much more than the monstrance can experience because, of course, the monstrance has no life in and of itself. The monstrance brings Christ to us so that we can truly experience the beauty of that oneness with Jesus, the one who is life himself.”

Photos by Fr. Chris Becerra

creates that longing in our heart and

During the feast of Corpus Christi, the new monstrance brings Christ on the streets and even in front of Nueces County jail ONE BRE AD, ONE BODY

CO M M EM O R AT I V E I S S U E

15

“Making us one body, one spirit in Christ”

BY EMILY SALAZAR

H

undreds of Catholics from all over South Texas gathered at the Corpus Christi Cathedral on June 8th to celebrate the Feast of Corpus Christi with prayers and a procession throughout the streets of downtown Corpus Christi. Here’s what some participants shared about what the Eucharist means to them.

“Eucharist was when Jesus broke the bread that was His body

to be given for the life of human beings. Christ in the Eucharist continues to work with the ministers to reach out to the suffering members of his body. So, as a chaplain, it means going out and being Christ for others in pain.”

Johnson Oodo, chaplain at Christus Spohn Hospital

“The Eucharist to me is the presence of Jesus, His ability to be able to heal us, our ability to be able to come into communion with Him. Of course, this occurs during mass, but also in adoration, or just being in His presence, walking with Him in the streets.”

Liana Badillo, Young Catholic Adults, Corpus Christi

“It’s the center of my prayer life, the reason why I became a priest, and I see the Eucharist as having a super important function of making us one body, one spirit in Christ. Without Jesus and the Eucharist, that unity that Jesus prayed for at the end of his life would not have been possible. In that sense, I see the Eucharist not only as something between Jesus and me but something between Jesus and us.”

Rev. Darryl D’Souza, Pastor at Holy Family Parish 16

S O U T H T E X A S C AT H O L I C

“I am a novice in religious life, so I haven’t made my vows yet – I am preparing to become a bride of Christ and to make my vows to Him. And when I receive the Eucharist, I feel myself growing closer and closer to Him, and that union I am striving for is coming to its fullness. So, for me, it’s a relationship with my future spouse.”

Sister Christine, Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity

“I tend to sometimes think of God as a very intense God, and when I see him in the Eucharist, He’s so gentle, and it’s so beautiful how He is so intimate with us. So, when I think of the Eucharist, I think of a very intimate relationship with God.” Meagan Gilbert, Parishioner of St. John the Baptist Parish

“The Eucharist means an embodiment of unity between people within our own religion. It allows us to express motivation and drive connection with one another.”

Elizabeth Hodge, Parishioner of Corpus Christi Cathedral

“It’s a mystery. I mean, it’s fuel for the soul, fuel for our whole life.

It’s a sacrament, so it’s a way God reaches out to us. It’s a sign to experience God in a new way and to become God, to live in the reality that is God and to let Him become you and you become Him.” Tom McGlynn, Executive Director of Fazenda da Esperança

“The Eucharist is everything.

Nothing can compare to the Eucharist.”

Deacon Pedro Salas, spiritual director of the Galveston and Houston members of the National Nocturnal Adoration

Society

ONE BRE AD, ONE BODY

CO M M EM O R AT I V E I S S U E

17

IN THE FRONT ROW OF THE PROCESSION

Behind the scenes of the diocese’s first enhanced broadcast

BY CHLOE RODRIGUEZ

T

his year’s Feast of Corpus Christi was

and event moderation from the Cathedral. It has

history in the making. With the ambition

been a fulfilling experience for Katia, a former

of communications director Katia Uriarte

news anchor, who created the show and was the

Philipello and broadcast director Richard Luna, the

executive producer: “I’ve been in the news business

Diocese of Corpus Christi pulled off a live broadcast

for the past 20 years, and here it is… I feel like my

of the procession for the first time, reaching viewers

entire life; the Lord prepared me for this moment.”

near and far.

Hosts Jesse De Leon, Assistant Director

For this effort, the Communications

of Communications, and Regina Garcia Posada,

team used one camera, an I-Phone, a drone,

parishioner and former KIII News Anchor,

and a Live U backpack at the center of it all. The

guided viewers through the event. The program

server enables the transmission of video from a

featured several guests throughout the evening,

smartphone (using an app), allowing for dynamic

with live interviews by Social Media Coordinator

coverage of the procession between the drone

for our diocese, Liz Morales, live coverage from

footage, on-the-ground coverage and interviews,

Communication Specialists Adel Sauceda and

Professional service. Hosts Regina Garcia Posada and Jesse DeLeon are about to start the pre-broadcast show

18

S O U T H T E X A S C AT H O L I C

Madelyn Galindo in between, as well as highlights of various outreach programs of the diocese.

While

the

procession

was

through

downtown Christi,

Corpus

people

at

home were part of the event, with added value: they learned why

Linda,

Our

Lady of Guadalupe

Chloe Rodriguez

moving

p a r i s h i o n e r , volunteered as a golf

In the Eye of the Storm. Katia Uriarte Philipello, Communications Director of the Diocese, in front of the control center where Richard Luna and his wife Ruth switch between the four different cameras

cart driver, delivering water and picking up parishioners throughout the procession. They also listened to Nueces County Sheriff J.C. Hooper, who shared how much it meant to him, the employees, and the inmates that the procession stops at the jail every year.

The live broadcast team brought in some special guests: Fr. Peter G. Martinez, President of John Paul II High School, spoke about the core values of the school: faith, reason, and virtue. He also shared a personal anecdote about how his brother Frank, who was in the seminary in Rome, met Pope John Paul II. Valedictorian Elizabeth Arnolds and Salutatorian Andrew Ybarra shared their experience of attending Catholic school and how it deepened their sense of belonging. Elizabeth will attend the

The second guest was Gloria Romero, a longtime Spanish contributor to the diocese and host of the KLUX program Con Permiso. Gloria provided commentary in Spanish on the procession visiting the Nueces County jail. She said the stop is one of the most emotional. The prisoners knock at the windows and hold their rosaries, excited to receive the blessing of Jesus, knowing that they are still God’s children.

The third guest was Tom McGlynn, Executive Director of the first Fazenda da Esperança, or Farm of Hope in North America. Fazendas are drug and alcohol recovery centers that rely on three pillars: community, work and spirituality. He shared that some experts from Brazil are expected to arrive in a few weeks.

University of Incarnate Word in San Antonio, and

When the procession returned to the Corpus

Andrew will attend Texas A&M University-Kingsville

Christi Cathedral and ended with the benediction,

this fall. “Even if the future environment is not

the broadcast team was relieved that they had

specifically Catholic,” says Ybarra, “I can bring my

successfully executed a livestream presentation

faith to others; it is just a part of me.”

that usually required more staff and planning time.

While the procession moved on to the

Amid the end of the day’s events, there were many

Mother Teresa Shelter and Sacred Heart Catholic

positive comments from people who were happy

Church, the people following from home had seats

that they were blessed to offer their time and talent

in the front row.

and be a part of this history-making event.

ONE BRE AD, ONE BODY

CO M M EM O R AT I V E I S S U E

19

AT A CERTAIN POINT, EVERYTHING FELL INTO PLACE

Fr. Thomas Swierc’s journey to the priesthood

BY SUSANNE JANSSEN

A

fter eight years of preparation, Fr. Thomas

a priest.” He shared his thoughts with a vocation

Swierc is excited that he will finally get to

director who advised him to “wait a bit and pray.”

work. “School is not my favorite thing,” he

So, he pursued his degree and got involved with

shared. Preaching neither – but he is convinced

the Newman Center. “I started being an altar server

that God will give him everything that he needs for

again, and we dedicated a brand-new chapel that

his ministry. And he found the work in the parish

summer,” he remembers. Maybe his desire was

fulfilling, “it felt right.”

written all over his face. After mass, a priest who

Swierc felt excited and a bit nervous a few weeks before his ordination. “It is a big change that will happen,” he said. He was born in San Antonio and raised in College Station with an older sister. “Our family was active in the parish,” he said. His dad was in the choir, his mother taught religious education, and his sister was an altar server.

Around 20 years ago, his parish started perpetual adoration. His father chose Monday morning from 4-5 am, and when Thomas didn’t have school, he joined his dad. “I cannot say that it was my favorite thing, but I began to develop a Two years into college at Texas A&M Kingsville, he had a serious discerning moment: “I was having a hard time doing my homework, and a thought came into my mind: maybe this is the moment God is telling me to be

20

S O U T H T E X A S C AT H O L I C

Susanne Janssen

relationship with Jesus.”

Going to adoration helped Fr. Thomas Swierc to develop a personal relationship with Jesus

saw him swaying the thurible asked him, “You are discerning, aren’t you?”

When he was attending a vocational retreat, everything fell into place. “I talked with a priest in the sacristy for almost an hour. I had one more year until finishing my degree in computer science, but he told me that the seminary is a good place for intense discernment.” They agreed that he would take two weeks to think and pray about it, but knew: he would join the seminary immediately.

While he was born in San Antonio and raised in the Austin diocese, he wanted to be ordained in Corpus Christi: “It just feels like home.

I feel I’m in the right place whenever I cross the border.” And he is grateful to the Newman Center at Kingsville, where both newly ordained priests lived important moments of their faith journey.

Courtesy of the Swierc family

after a few days, he felt his heart burning, and he

The Swierc family back in the days

His parents wanted him to finish his degree, but “when they saw how excited I was, they were supportive.” One great-aunt was unsurprised, “she remembered that I mentioned something about becoming a priest when I was 12 years old.”

After entering seminary, he remembers two decisive moments. “During a retreat in my first year, I wanted to leave,” he said. “I didn’t like studying, and I didn’t like this and that, but then I recognized that these were distractions of the Evil one.” His happiness returned.

Another year, he didn’t receive the stellar evaluation that he was expecting. “I got too comfortable, I was content with the prayer times, but I didn’t put much effort into it.” That was a wake-up call: “I have to focus on my goals, and prayer is essential for my life as a priest.”

While

nervous

about

delivering

homilies, he looks forward to working in a parish, especially teaching and preparing children for First Communion. What would he say to young people who are discerning a vocation? “Talk to

According to an aunt, Fr. Thomas wanted to become a priest at an early age

“which is also necessary for a married life.”

Fr. Swierc thanks everybody in the diocese for their prayers: “I’m grateful for your love and support.”

the Lord; spend time with Jesus.” And after that, being ready to take a step into the unknown,

ONE BRE AD, ONE BODY

CO M M EM O R AT I V E I S S U E

21

EN CIERTO PUNTO, TODO CAYÓ EN SU LUGAR.

El camino del Padre Thomas Swierc hacia el sacerdocio POR SUSANNE JANSSEN espués de ocho años de preparación, el

D

Hace unos 20 años, su parroquia inició el

Padre. Thomas Swierc está entusiasmado

ministerio de Adoración perpetua y su padre eligió

porque finalmente se pondrá a trabajar.

el turno de los lunes por la mañana de 4 a 5 am.

“La escuela no es mi cosa favorita”, compartió.-

Cuando Thomas no tenía escuela, lo acompañaba.

Predicar tampoco-, pero está convencido de que

“No puedo decir que era mi cosa favorita, pero si

Dios le dará todo lo que necesita para su ministerio.

comencé a desarrollar una relación con Jesús.”

Ha encontrado en el trabajo parroquial algo muy gratificante; “Me siento bien” dijo. Hace unas semanas el Padre Swierc se sentía emocionado al mismo tiempo que un poco nervioso porque se aproximaba su ordenación. -“Es un gran cambio lo que sucederá”, dijo.

Nació en San Antonio pero se crió en College Station junto a su hermana mayor. “Nuestra familia era activa en la parroquia”, dijo. Su padre estaba en el coro, su madre enseñaba educación religiosa y su hermana era monaguillo.

La familia Swierc en el seminario St. Mary’s, Houston

22

S O U T H T E X A S C AT H O L I C

Después de dos años en la universidad Texas A&M Kingsville, tuvo un momento de discernimiento serio: “Estaba teniendo dificultades para hacer mi tarea y un pensamiento cruzó por mi mente: tal vez sea este es el momento en que Dios me llama para que sea sacerdote”.

Compartió sus pensamientos

con un

director de vocaciones que le aconsejó - esperar un poco y orar mucho -. Continuó sus estudios y se involucró en el Newman Center. “Empecé a ser monaguillo nuevamente, y ese verano inauguramos

una capilla nueva”, recuerda. Tal vez su deseo estaba escrito en su rostro, ya que después de la misa, un sacerdote que lo vio balanceando el incensario le preguntó: “Estás discerniendo, Después, mientras asistía a un retiro vocacional, todo encajó. “Hablé con un sacerdote en la sacristía durante casi una hora. Me faltaba un año para terminar la carrera de informática, pero me dijo que el seminario era un buen lugar para un discernimiento intenso”. Acordaron que se tomaría dos semanas para pensar y orar al respecto, pero después de unos días, sintió que

Cortesia de la familia Swierc (3)

¿verdad?”.

le ardía el corazón, en ese momento supo que

Thomas con su hermana mayor Suzanne

se uniría al seminario de inmediato.

Si bien nació en San Antonio y se crió en la Diócesis de Galveston-Houston, quería ser ordenado en Corpus Christi porque “Se siente como en casa. Siento que estoy en el lugar correcto cada vez que cruzo los lίmites de la ciudad”.

Está muy agradecido con el Centro Newman

de

Kingsville,

donde

ambos

sacerdotes recién ordenados vivieron momentos importantes en su camino de fe.

Sus padres querían que terminara la carrera, pero “cuando vieron lo emocionado que estaba, me apoyaron”. Una tía abuela no estaba sorprendida, “recordó que le mencioné

Como explorador en Guadalupe

algo acerca de convertirme en sacerdote cuando tenía 12 años”.

Aunque está nervioso con respecto a dar homilías,

Después de ingresar al seminario, recuerda

espera trabajar en una parroquia, especialmente

dos momentos decisivos. “Durante un retiro en mi

enseñando y preparando a los niños para la

primer año, quería salirme”, dijo. “No me gustaba

Primera Comunión.

estudiar, y no me agradaba ni esto ni aquello, pero luego reconocí que eran distracciones del Maligno”. Su felicidad volvió.

-¿Qué les diría a los jóvenes que están discerniendo una vocación?

-“Les dirίa:

habla con el Señor; pasa tiempo con Jesús”.

Otro año, no recibió la evaluación estelar

Y después de eso, estarás listo para dar un

que esperaba. “Me sentí demasiado cómodo, no

paso hacia lo desconocido, lo cual, también

valoré los tiempos de oración, pero tampoco puse

es necesario para una vida matrimonial”.

mucho empeño”. Esa fue una llamada de atención

El Padre Thomas Swierc da las gracias

“Tengo que concentrarme en mis metas, y la

a todos en la diócesis, por sus oraciones: “Estoy

oración es esencial para mi vida como sacerdote”.

agradecido por su amor y su apoyo, gracias”.

UN PAN , UN CUERPO

ED I C I Ó N CO N M EM O R AT I VA

23

FALLING IN LOVE WITH THE MASS

How the words of Fr. Raymond Pendleton’s mother were pivotal for his vocation

BY SUSANNE JANSSEN

“E

xcited. And a bit nervous...” That was

after his First Communion all the way through

Deacon Raymond Pendleton’s answer

high school.

on how he felt a few weeks before his

ordination. After eight years in seminary, he knew he was about to enter an entirely new phase of his life.

When he left for college, his mother told him, “I don’t care if you fail all your classes or come back to live here with us – but please, go to Sunday mass.” These words rang in Pendleton’s ears as he

Pendleton has studied for the last four years

passed his first Sunday in the dorm at Texas A&M

in Rome and will continue specializing in Canon

in Kingsville. “I intended to leave my faith behind;

Law for two more years. Becoming a priest was

it was becoming less relevant. But I remembered

not on his radar, yet he grew up in a family very

my mom’s words, so I went to mass at the

committed to the Catholic faith: “I am the second

Newman Center.”

oldest of ten children; we are all very close and spend much time together,” he said. Growing up in the small town of Benavides, he has fond memories of spending time together as a family in the parish, attending many events and being an altar server

The Sunday masses and other events at the Newman Center drew him closer to Christ and the Church. That Sunday had a lasting impact on his life. “I saw college kids my age going to mass without their parents. I couldn’t believe that.”

Later he was invited to go to daily mass, and he picked up being an

Courtesy of the Pendleton family

altar server. “I fell

The Pendletons are a large and close-knit family from Benavides

in love with mass,” he recalled. After several months, he started paying more attention to what the priest was doing – and he felt “I could do the same.”

In his sophomore year, he was invited to

24

S O U T H T E X A S C AT H O L I C

a

vocational

Photo by: Susanne Janssen Fr. Raymond Pendleton started thinking about the priesthood when he became attracted to attending mass nearly every day

retreat and started thinking about the priesthood,

he remembers. In prayer, he understood that he

yet he didn’t do anything to move forward. Up came

is not doing it alone, “Christ does it. He is the one

another retreat of the diocese, and he was happy

who brings healing.” He overcame these doubts by

to receive whatever would be given to him but

turning to scripture and looking at the apostles.

had an uneasy feeling in his stomach. “I couldn’t

During his formation, he treasured the

just push it back – I understood I had to apply to the seminary.”

possibility of sharing everything with a priest to receive guidance and help. And parish assignments

He was pursuing a double major in

in the summer, at a parish, the Mother Theresa

Education and Communication at that time. He

Shelter and the chancery helped him to be

had to consider finishing his degree or entering

more compassionate and ready to offer himself

the seminary right away. After discerning in prayer,

“as Christ did.”

he trusted God and let go of his bachelor’s.

He would encourage every young person

He had to tell his family: “I called my parents

attracted to the priesthood or religious life to speak

and told them that I had to share something

to a priest, a brother or a sister and “get a taste of

important; it had to be in person.” His parents

what it is like to live in a community.”

drove to Kingsville to meet with him. They were not surprised: “We already knew that,” said his mom with a smile. His siblings and friends were supportive as well.

Did he have any doubts after that first

Pendleton, who just turned 29, thanks all the people in the diocese for their support: “Thank you for all your prayers, your generosity and acts of kindness. If I become a priest, it is not because of my own power but because you helped me.”

clarity? “The priestly life is full of responsibilities – I was wondering if I could do something like this,” ONE BRE AD, ONE BODY

CO M M EM O R AT I V E I S S U E

25

ME ENAMORÉ DE LA MISA

Las palabras de la madre del Padre Raymond Pendleton fueron fundamentales para su vocación POR SUSANNE JANSSEN

“E

ntusiasmado y un poco nervioso…” Fue la primera respuesta

del diácono Raymond Pendleton cuando le preguntamos cómo se sentía, unas semanas antes de su ordenación. Después de que estaba a punto de entrar en una fase completamente nueva de su vida.

Pendleton ha estudiado durante los últimos tres años en Roma y seguirá especializándose en Derecho Canónico durante dos años más. Convertirse en sacerdote no estaba en sus planes, a pesar de haber crecido en una

26

Photo by: Susanne Janssen

ocho años en el seminario, sabía

Padre Richard Pendleton (derecha) fue ordenado junto con el P. David Snow, SOLT y el P. Thomas Swierc

familia muy comprometida con la

resonaron en los oídos de Pendleton mientras

fe Católica: “Soy el segundo de nueve hijos; todos

pasaba su primer domingo en el dormitorio de

somos muy unidos y pasamos mucho tiempo

Texas A&M Kingsville. “Tenía la intención de dejar

juntos”, dijo. Guarda muy buenos recuerdos de

atrás mi fe; porque cada vez era menos relevante

su pequeño pueblo Benavides, donde creció

para mi, pero recordaba las palabras de mi mamá,

y pasó mucho tiempo con su familia y con la

así que iba a Misa al Newman Center”.

comunidad de su parroquia, asistiendo a muchos

Las Misas dominicales y otros eventos en

eventos y convirtiéndose en monaguillo después

el Centro Newman lo acercaron a Cristo y a la

de su Primera Comunión y hasta terminar la

Iglesia, pero ese primer domingo tuvo un impacto

escuela secundaria.

duradero en su vida. “Vi a universitarios de mi edad

Cuando se fue a la universidad, su madre le

yendo a misa sin sus padres. No podía creer eso”.

dijo: “No me importa si repruebas todas tus clases

Posteriormente fue invitado a ir a Misa diaria,

o regresas a vivir aquí de nuevo con nosotros, pero

y lo eligieron para ser monaguillo. “Me enamoré

por favor, ve a Misa cada domingo”. Estas palabras

de la Misa”, recordó. Después de varios meses,

S O U T H T E X A S C AT H O L I C

comenzó a prestar más atención a lo que hacía el

está llena de responsabilidades. -Me preguntaba

sacerdote y sintió que él podía hacer lo mismo. En

si podría llegar a hacer algo como esto”, recuerda.

su segundo año, lo invitaron a un retiro vocacional

Fue a través de la oración que comprendió que

y comenzó a pensar en el sacerdocio, pero no hizo

no lo iba a hacer solo,- “Cristo lo hace. Él es el que

nada para continuar con ese pensamiento. Llegó

trae la curación”. Superó sus dudas recurriendo a

otro retiro, esta vez de la Diócesis, y se sintió feliz,

las Sagradas Escrituras y mirando a los apóstoles

estaba dispuesto a recibir lo que le dieran, pero

Durante su formación atesoró la posibilidad

tenía una sensación de malestar en el estómago.

“Esta vez no podía retrasarlo más, entendí que tenía que postularme para el seminario”.

de compartirlo todo con un sacerdote para recibir orientación. Y todo ayudó; la guía sacerdotal, las asignaciones parroquiales en el verano, el Refugio

En ese tiempo estaba cursando una doble

Madre Teresa y la cancillería contribuyeron para

especialización en Educación y Comunicación

volverlo más compasivo y dispuesto a ofrecerse

y se planteó la disyuntiva: terminar su carrera o

“como lo hizo Cristo”.

ingresar al seminario de inmediato. Después de discernir en oración, confió en Dios y dejó de buscar la licenciatura.

El siguiente paso era hablar con su familia:

Alentaría a todos los jóvenes atraídos por el sacerdocio o la vida religiosa a hablar con un sacerdote, un hermano o una hermana y “probar cómo es vivir en una comunidad”.

“Llamé a mis padres y les dije que tenía que compartir algo importante con ellos y que tenía que ser en persona”. Sus padres viajaron a Kingsville para reunirse con él. No se sorprendieron: “Eso ya lo sabíamos”, dijo su mamá con una sonrisa. Sus hermanos y amigos también lo apoyaron.

Pendleton, que acaba de cumplir 29 años, agradece a todas las personas de la Diócesis por su apoyo: “Gracias por todas sus oraciones, su generosidad y actos de bondad. Si me hago sacerdote, no es por mi propio poder, sino porque tú me ayudaste”.

A caso ¿se presentaron algunas dudas

Cortesía de la familia Pendleton

después de esa primera claridad? “La vida sacerdotal

Padre Raymond Pendleton creció en un pequeño pueblo, en una familia numerosa donde todos eran activos en la parroquia

Padre Raymond Pendleton creció con nueve hermanos

UN PAN , UN CUERPO

ED I C I Ó N CO N M EM O R AT I VA

27

“DO YOU LOVE ME MORE THAN THESE?”

Three young men ordained to the priesthood

BY SUSANNE JANSSEN packed cathedral, festive music, more than

A

They gave their yes, “to be trustworthy

70 priests were concelebrating. And in the

co-workers with the Order of Bishops, in feeding the

center of it all, three young deacons who

Lord’s flock,” and answered the bishop’s questions,

prepared for years for this day – to be ordained to

“Do you solve to be united more closely each day to

the priesthood, answering a call that each one of

Christ, the High Priest … and with him to consecrate

them felt in a personal way.

yourselves to God for the salvation of all?” with “I

The beautiful rite, filled with symbols

28

do, with the help of God.”

and meaning, began on June 17 at 10 am in the

After the Gospel reading where Jesus asked

Corpus Christi Cathedral. After the procession,

Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more

accompanied by festive music, Deacons Raymond

than these?” (Jn 21:15), Bishop Michael Mulvey told

Pendleton, Thomas Swierc and David Snow, a

the candidates to “be another Christ, confirm your

member of the Society of our Lady of the Most

mind and your heart to the mind and the heart of

Holy Trinity (SOLT), joined their families in the pews

Christ.” Being a priest requires self-knowledge and

and were called by name to come forward.

humility. He gave the advice to hold on to Saint

S O U T H T E X A S C AT H O L I C

Catherine of Siena’s prayer, “I am nothing; you are

“It is the mission of Jesus Christ himself.” To stay

everything,” when administering the sacraments.

faithful, he recommended they encounter the poor,

His second piece of advice originated from

value silence and seek communion.

Saint Paul, who wrote to the Corinthians, “For I

After the litany, where the three candidates

decided to know nothing among you except Jesus

prostrated themselves in front of the altar, the

Christ and him crucified” (1 Cor 2:2). “Our mission is

bishop laid hands on them one by one, followed

in the cross, not in the glories,” so Bishop Mulvey,

by all the priests present doing the same.

Fr. Raymond Pendleton is giving his first blessing

The bishop anninted the palms of the candidates with the Sacred Chrism.

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CO M M EM O R AT I V E I S S U E

29

Then the palms of the newly ordained

At the end of the mass, the two Diocesan

priests were anointed with Chrism. They received

priests received their first assignment: Father

their priestly vestments and were welcomed in a

Thomas Swierc as Parochial Vicar at St. Philip the

fraternal embrace by each priest present. Finally,

Apostle in Corpus Christi and Father Raymond

they turned to the faithful with radiant smiles.

Pendleton as Priest in Residence at the Cathedral

The people in the pews stood up and applauded

over the summer while continuing his studies in

for minutes.

Canon Law in Rome in the Fall.

So much joy: The concelebrants and servers with the newly ordained priests in front of the cathedral

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S O U T H T E X A S C AT H O L I C

Adel Sauceda Right: Fr. David Snow, a member of the Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity (SOLT), grew up in Kansas City, Missouri and has a master’s degree in music. He studied at Sacred Heart Seminary in Detroit, Michigan

S a v e th e d a t e

Diocesecc.org/GenVerde

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14

During an exclusive tour, the international performing Group Gen Verde will be performing for one night only in Corpus Christi, Texas, on Saturday, October 14. Don't miss this special evening. Save the date - Saturday, October 14 - in your calendar now.

F r e e ca mp f or te e ns a ges 14-1 8 OCTOBER 11-15, 2023

Diocesecc.org/YPA

Attendees will be able to choose between four tracks: drama, singing, percussion, or dancing. Register now to save your seat.

ONE BRE AD, ONE BODY

CO M M EM O R AT I V E I S S U E

31

COMMEMORATIVE ISSUE South Texas Catholic 555 N Carancahua St, Ste 750 Corpus Christi, TX 78401-0824 (361) 882-6191