Catholic Spirit April 2019

April 2019, Vol. 37, No. 4

 The official publication of the Diocese of Austin 

En Español: Páginas 23-26

Conference takes youth ‘to the heights’ of our faith

By Shelley Metcalf | Editor

More than 2,800 youth and their adult chaperones gathered for the Diocesan Catholic Youth Conference Feb. 1-3 at the Waco Convention Center. About 80 parishes were represented and several priests and religious sisters were available to offer the sacraments and pastoral care throughout the weekend.

Father Jonathan Raia, the diocesan vocations director, celebrated the closing Mass at this year’s DCYC. “We live in a culture that has all kinds of wrong ideas about love,” Father Raia said. “We must remember how St. Paul defines love. Love rejoices with the truth, it seeks only the good of the other; love does not seek its own interests.”

Father Raia also relayed a message from Bishop Joe Vásquez, who had planned to celebrate the Mass but fell ill and could not attend DCYC. Nearly 3,000 teens and their adult chaperones attended the 2019 DCYC, which was held Feb. 1-3 at the Waco Convention Center. (Photo by Joshua William Guenther)

“Our bishop wanted to communicate to all of you that we as a church and he as our shepherd are committed to transparency and to accountability,” Father Raia said. “We are committed to helping to heal the wounds of those who are hurting.”

Bishop Vásquez also asked the forgiveness for the failings of the church, he said.

“We as a church need your help in this path of healing and purifying the church. We need your help in accompanying those who need healing,” Father Raia said. “You all are the church –– the church is not just the bishops and the priests –– the church is all of us together. We need you, the world needs you, to show them what love truly is.”

During this year’s DCYC, 16 teens from across the diocese served on the Discipleship CREW (also known as D-CREW), the teen leadership group for the weekend.

Jennifer Kodysz, the diocesan associate director of Youth, Young Adult and Campus Ministry, said D-CREW is the team of high school sophomores, juniors and seniors who

seek to draw others to Christ through their service, faith and witness during the conference.

“The team helps facilitate the events throughout DCYC. That may include time on stage, serving in workshops, hospitality and in various ways as needed throughout the weekend,” Kodysz said.

Sienna Taylor, a high school senior from St. Luke Parish in Temple who serves on D-CREW, said it was an honor to give witness to her faith at this year’s DCYC. “When the teens see those of us on the D-CREW taking our beliefs seriously, and they see us growing more in our faith, not ashamed of who we are as teen Catholics, they are inspired to be proud of their faith as well,” she said. “Seeing us gives them the confidence to be interested in and curious about their faith without looking for approval from their peers. In today’s society, it is not easy to be a Catholic.”

This was Olivia Fulbright’s third year to attend DCYC. She is a high school junior from St. Jerome Parish in Waco. She especially liked this year’s

Father Daniel Liu led nearly 3,000 youth and adults in adoration during the Diocesan Catholic Youth Conference. Father Liu is the director of St. Peter Catholic Center in Waco.

(Photo by Joshua William Guenther)

theme for DCYC, which was “To the Heights.”

“It reminds us that our goal on earth is to strive to get to heaven. In this world, especially for teens, it is so easy to get distracted with worldly things that we lose sight of what is important. ‘To the Heights’ should always be our mindset. No matter how busy our lives get, our end goal is heaven,” she said.

Jesse Saucedo, a high school senior at St. William Parish in Round Rock, said DCYC has played a vital role in his faith life.

“It has challenged me and shaped me in to being a better person, no matter how difficult the change was,” he said. “DCYC captures our attention and answers those tough questions and provides guidance for us youth.

DCYC makes me want to be a better Catholic.”

Bishop’s Interview

New deacons

Postsynodal document

Español

What can we do to unite our hearts with Christ in these last weeks of Lent? .... PAGE 15

The stories of the remainder of the new deacons ordained on March 30. PAGES 4-10

Pope Francis signs his latest apostolic exhortation.

Taller une a músicos en ritmo y unidad.

PAGE 12

PAGE 25

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VOICES

CATHOLIC SPIRIT

THE MISSION OF THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

A FAITHFUL REFLECTION

As the official newspaper for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Austin, the Catholic Spirit is dedicated to providing information, education and formation for the Catholic community of Central Texas. This mission calls for the newspaper: • to provide readers with an understanding of our Catholic faith and traditions; • to be a primary source of information on Catholic issues relevant to the community; • to be a unifying element for faith communities, both rural and urban, throughout Central Texas; • to show respect for and appreciation of all cultural groups and traditions; • to emphasize topics affirming the Catholic community and life, while acknowledging the humanity of the community and examining, with courage, topics that challenge and encourage growth in the faith.

An ‘Ode to the Church’ from a mature heart

HOW TO SUBMIT INFORMATION Deadline for submission of articles or information for the Catholic Spirit is the 10th of the month for publication in the following month’s edition. Deadline for the May issue is April 10.

Submit material in one of the following ways: • E-mail to catholic-spirit@austindiocese.org.

• Mail to Catholic Spirit, 6225 E US 290 HWY SVRD EB, Austin, TX 78723 Catholic Spirit has unrestricted editing rights.

HOW TO SUBSCRIBE Subscription rates are $12 for one year. To subscribe, send a check payable to Catholic Spirit to Catholic Spirit, 6225 E US 290 HWY SVRD EB, Austin, TX 78723. Members of a parish in the Austin Diocese may receive the newspaper for a reduced rate. Contact your parish staff for more information.

ADDRESS CHANGES Send all address changes to Catholic Spirit, 6225 E US 290 HWY SVRD EB, Austin, TX 78723. Please include your parish’s name and city. If receiving duplicate copies of the Catholic Spirit, call (512) 949-2443 or e-mail catholic-spirit@austindiocese.org.

STAFF Publisher: Bishop Joe S. Vásquez Editor: Shelley Metcalf Assistant Editor: Christian R. González Advertising: Shelley Metcalf Spanish translation: Gina Dominguez Columnists: Norman Farmer, Louis Gamino, Mary Lou Gibson, Emily Hurlimann, Sara Ramirez and Father Ron Rolheiser, OMI Correspondents: Ricardo Gandara, Enedelia J. Obregón, Carla Smith and Mary P. Walker Catholic Spirit subscribes to Catholic News Service (CNS) and is a member of the Catholic Press Association. Catholic Spirit cannot be held liable or responsible for the content of any advertisment appearing within these pages. Advertisements are solely the responsibility of each advertiser. Misleading advertising is never knowingly accepted. Complaints regarding advertising should be directed to the advertiser or to the Better Business Bureau.

Copyright 2019 by the Austin Diocese. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of any editorial content, photograph, art or design is prohibited without written permission of the publisher Catholic Spirit (ISSN 0896-2715) is published 11 times annually (monthly except one issue in July/August) by the Austin Diocese.

Bishop Joe S. Vásquez (publisher) 6225 E US 290 HWY SVRD EB Austin, TX 78723 Periodicals Postage Paid at Austin, Texas.

POSTMASTER Send address changes to: Catholic Spirit 6225 E US 290 HWY SVRD EB Austin, Texas 78723

By Father Ron Rolheiser, OMI | Guest Columnist

Carlo Carretto was an Italian monk who died in 1988. For many years he lived as a hermit in the Sahara Desert, translated the Scriptures into the Tuareg language, and wrote some extraordinary spiritual books. He loved the church deeply, but he wasn’t blind to its faults and failures, and he wasn’t afraid to point out those shortcomings.

Late in life, when his health forced him to leave the desert he retired to a religious community in his native Italy. While there, he read a book by an atheist entitled, “I Sought and I Didn’t Find;” the author argued from his own experience that an honest heart can seek God and come up empty.

Carretto wrote a book in reply called: “I Sought and I Found.” For him, in his own search, despite encountering many things that could indicate the absence of God, he found God. But he admits the difficulties, and one of those difficulties is, at times, the church. The church can, and sometimes does, through its sin, make it difficult for some to believe in God. Carretto admits this with a disarming honesty but argues that it’s not the whole picture.

Hence his book combines his deep love for his faith and his church with his refusal to not turn a blind eye to the very real faults of Christians and the churches. At one point in the book he gives voice to something we might describe as an Ode to the Church: “How much I must criticize you, my church and yet how much I love you!

How you have made me suffer much and yet owe much to you.

I should like to see you destroyed and yet I need your presence.

You have given me much scandal and yet you alone have made me understand holiness.

Never in this world have I seen anything more obscurantist, more compromised, more false, and yet never in this world have I touched anything more pure, more generous, and more beautiful.

Many times I have felt like slamming the door of my soul in your face – and yet how often I have prayed that I might die in your sure arms!

No, I cannot be free of you, for I am one with you, even though not completely you.

Then, too – where would I go? To build another church?

But I cannot build another without the same defects, for they are my own defeats I bear within me.

And again, if I build one, it will be my Church, and no longer Christ’s.

No, I am old enough to know that I am no better than others.

I shall not leave this Church, founded on so frail a rock, because I should be founding another one on an even frailer rock: myself.

And then, what do rocks matter?

What matters is Christ’ promise, what matters is the cement that binds the rocks into one: the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit alone can build the Church with stones as ill‐hewn as we.”

This is an expression of a mature faith; one which isn’t so romantic and idealistic that it needs to be shielded from the darker side of things and one which is real enough so as not to be so cynical that it blinds itself to the evident goodness that also emanates from the church. In truth, the church is both horribly compromised and wonderfully grace-filled. Honest eyes can see both. A mature heart can accept both.

Novices need to be shielded from the dark underbelly of things; scandalized adults need to have their eyes opened to the evident goodness that’s also there.

Many people have left the church because it has scandalized them through its habitual sins, blind spots, defensiveness, self-serving nature and arrogance. The recent revelations (again) of sexual abuse by priests and the cover-up by church authorities have left many people wondering whether they can ever again trust the church’s structure, ministers and authorities. For many, this scandal seems too huge to digest.

Carlo Carretto’s Ode, I believe, can help us all, whether scandalized or pious. To the pious, it can show how one can accept the church despite its sin and how denial of that sin is not what’s called for by love and loyalty. To the scandalized, it can be a challenge to not miss the forest for the trees, to not miss seeing that, in the church, frailty and sin, while real, tragic, and scandalous, never eclipse the superabundant, life-giving grace of God. Used with permission of the author, Oblate Father Ron Rolheiser. Currently, Father Rolheiser is serving as president of the Oblate School of Theology in San Antonio. He can be contacted through his website: www.ronrolheiser.com. Follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ronrolheiser.

ADVISORY On March 16 the Diocese of Austin learned that Father Gerold Langsch, 75, a member of the Schoenstatt Fathers, a religious community from Germany, was arrested by the Austin Police Department. He came to the Diocese of Austin in November 2015 with his community and has only served at St. Paul Parish in Austin, which is staffed by Schoenstatt priests.

In February, the Schoenstatt Fathers and the Diocese of Austin received an unrelated report that Father Langsch had failed to maintain proper boundaries with an adult. That report did not involve any physical contact. Father Langsch was asked by his superior and the Diocese of Austin to resign as pastor of St. Paul Parish in Austin based on that report. The Diocese of Austin has subsequently removed his faculties to serve as a priest in this diocese. Schoenstatt Father Hector Vega is currently the administrator of St. Paul Parish in Austin.

The Diocese of Austin remains committed to cooperating fully with the police in all investigations of this nature. If you have any information related to this matter, please bring that information to the police as soon as possible. We ask your prayers for all involved.

APRIL 2019

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From ‘Ashes to Easter’ and then to the children of Haiti

By Ricardo Gandara | Correspondent

The Ashes to Easter Collection –– those little purple coin boxes our children bring home from church during Lent –– have had an effect in poverty-stricken Haiti and a preschool known as St. Francis of Assisi.

Just $250 supplies a teacher’s salary for a month, classroom books and daily lunch for a child, often the only meal a child will get on any given day.

The school is located in Durissy, a community smack in the middle of a jungle in the southern peninsula of Haiti; the school is the only semblance of anything modern.

“Kids go hungry,” said Kathy Pomeroy, who with her husband Don has been to Durissy several times.

“The first word in Creole that we learned was ‘grangu.’ It means ‘I’m hungry.’”

Cholera is a major problem; most kids need vaccinations. This is the reality in Durissy where about 6,000 people live in the undercover of the jungle in makeshift housing like shanties with no running water or

The children of the Durissy jungle in Haiti have in many ways become the grandchildren of Don and Kathy Pomeroy. The couple runs Educate Haiti, a non-profit that helps develop schools so that all young Haitians can receive a quality education. This year the organization received a grant from the diocesan Ashes to Easter Collection, which is taken up each Lent via small purple boxes distributed in parishes. (Photos courtesy the Pomeroys)

electricity. Children walk up to two hours to attend the school.

Through their nonprofit Educate Haiti and others, 474 children from ages 3 through high school receive a free religious education. The school accepts children of all faiths. The Pomeroys, parishioners of St. Anthony Marie de Claret Parish in Kyle, pour their hearts, time and money to help educate children.

Father Anis Ives, a priest, leads the school with the goal of educating generations of Haitians out of poverty. Durissy is in the poorest area of Haiti; the individual annual income is just $100. The community is still reeling from a major earthquake in 2010 and Hurricane Matthew in 2016.

“Father Anis tells us you have to educate two generations of Haitians so they can make a change in their country,” said Kathy, who is retired from a 44-year career in education.

Her last job was preparing future preschool teachers at Indiana University.

The Ashes to Easter campaign annually collects about $100,000 to fund mission projects like the school

in Durissy. The coins put in the boxes make a big difference in the poorest parts of the world, said Vianey Hernández, the mission coordinator for the Diocese of Austin.

This year the Pomeroys’ project received a $25,000 grant to further their cause thanks to the Ashes to Easter, which is run by the diocesan Office of Mission and Mission Education.

“The Pomeroys have a heart for the people of Durissy.

Their commitment to the children and families is commendable and inspiring,” Hernández said.

Each year the Ashes to Easter campaign provides grants to local missionary groups and other mission activities in the Diocese of Austin.

“The continued mission work done by parishioners from the Diocese of Austin locally and abroad is the embodiment of the missionary call which all the baptized receive,” she said. “These missionaries strengthen our church and our faith by sharing and upholding the commandment to ‘love one another.’”

Love is an understatement when talking to the Pomeroys.

“We have 474 grandchildren,” Kathy said. The Pomeroys have been to Durissy seven times since 2014 when they first accompanied volunteers from a parish in Indiana to build a playground in nearby Saintard.

Their work and that of other nonprofits is making a significant difference. The school now has bathrooms. This fall a solar project will be completed to provide electricity for fans and to fulfill a dream of computers in the classroom.

The Pomeroys have sponsors in 29 states to help meet an annual school budget of $105,000. But they are looking for more donations because the need is great.

The Pomeroys’ wish is for a Texas parish to team up with the school as

Don and Kathy Pomeroy, parishioners of St. Anthony Marie de Claret Parish in Kyle, will use funds collected through the Ashes to Easter Collection to help St. Francis of Assisi School in Haiti. (Photo by Ricardo Gandara)

a ministry project. Even the smallest individual contribution means a daily meal of rice and beans. They will visit with anyone who will listen, they said.

Despite the despair in Durissy, there are many positive signs of hope.

Children come to school in clean uniforms.

“Haitians value education greatly,” Don, a former accounting professor, said. “The last time I was there, I was very tired at the end of the day a man walked up to me and grabbed my hand. He thanked me for what we were doing for the children.”

Kathy welcomes the opportunity to practice her favorite philosophy.

“St. Francis said something to the effect of preaching often and using words when necessary. It’s being an active missionary,” she said.

And though a missionary’s work can be daunting in an impoverished country, the spirit of the people keeps the Pomeroys going back.

“Though people are so poor, they’re happy. You should see the smiles,” Kathy said.

Visit www.EducateHaiti.net for more information about Educate Haiti.

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CATHOLIC SPIRIT

New deacons come from a variety of backgrounds

By Mary P. Walker | Senior Correspondent

Bishop Joe Vásquez ordained 29 permanent deacons March 30 at St. William Parish in Round Rock. In the March Catholic Spirit, 11 of the new deacons were featured. The rest of their stories are below. Photos from the Mass of Ordination will be in the May issue of the Catholic Spirit.

––––––––––––––––––––––––– Deacon Victor Alvarado of St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Austin is married to Ina, and they have four adult children. He earned an electronics engineering degree in Venezuela, and a master’s in chemical engineering from the University of South Florida. Deacon Alvarado is a software test engineer at Emerson Automation Solutions. The family settled in Austin after Hurricane Katrina.

Deacon Alvarado believes his call to the diaconate began in 2002, when Jesus’ words “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men” resonated with him during Mass. Before major brain surgery, he spent 14 days in intense prayer at the National Shrine of Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos in New Orleans. There, he felt God’s call, which was later confirmed in Austin by his then-pastor, Bishop Daniel E. Garcia.

Like most candidates, Deacon Alvarado was challenged by the academic requirements of formation. He especially enjoyed gathering with other candidates and their wives for prayer and Eucharistic Adoration.

One experience that stands out in his mind during formation was when a woman from Louisiana called him unexpectedly and reminded him to pray the rosary every day. That day, his prayer of many years was answered.

He was given the date of his naturalization ceremony to become a U.S. citizen.

“I started to pray the rosary every day since then,” Deacon Alvarado said.

Deacon Alvarado expressed appreciation to his wife, who upheld him in prayer, and his children.

“Their fresh approach and views have helped me deepen my own faith,” he said.

As a deacon, he plans to continue visiting the sick, a ministry close to his heart. In addition, he prays for the

people of his native Venezuela, who are suffering hardships and political unrest.

––––––––––––––––––––––––– Deacon Peter Barger is married to Kim, and they have two teenage daughters. They are members of St. Louis King of France Parish in Austin, the parish where he grew up.

Deacon Barger started working fulltime after high school. In 1992, he began a career in technology, and has served in the Air Force Reserve for 12 years, two on active duty. In 2017, with the support of his family, he made a leap of faith to leave his job and trust that God would direct him in the next step. This eventually led to a job at St. Theresa’s Catholic School as the director of technology.

He first heard the call to the diaconate during an interview to become a member of the Knights of Columbus in 2010. After he discussed his parish involvement, one of the interviewers said, “If you aren’t careful, you’ll become a deacon!”

Soon after, he started to notice signs that God might be calling him. On a business trip to Seattle in 2012, he attended Mass. There, he heard a clear message to attend the upcoming information sessions back home. Along with Kim, he prayed and discerned to go forward. He is grateful for her example and support.

With his large, extended family, the greatest challenge of formation was not being able to spend as much time as he would have liked with his parents, siblings and their families.

“In contrast, the most rewarding part of formation was growing as a family, in relationship with God, in reverence and obedience to the bishop, and with humility and joy,” Deacon Barger said.

He feels a special call to minister to those in state prison and law enforcement through a possible chaplaincy.

Also, he would like to foster his interest in canon law to help others.

––––––––––––––––––––––––– Deacon Raul (Roy) Briceno is married to Rachel, and they have three adult daughters. They are members of St. Anthony Marie de Claret Parish in Kyle. After working in the field of auto collision repair for 38 years, he is now an insurance field agent for the Knights of Columbus.

As the result of attending a Cursillo retreat, Deacon Briceno became very

active in his parish, often serving in leadership positions. He was on the parish council, a lector, Grand Knight, and led pilgrimages to Italy and the Holy Land. Although he had been asked to consider becoming a deacon years ago, he did not consider himself worthy of the call.

When he was part of a group planning a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, he asked them to fast and pray for 40 days before the trip. In his prayers, he asked God to give him a sign about the diaconate. During the pilgrimage, somebody directed his attention to a poster on the tour bus, which listed him as “Deacon Roy Briceno.” He took that as a message from God. During formation, he enjoyed learning more about the history and traditions of the faith, and the “brotherhood” the candidates formed.

Also, the Street Retreat, where the candidates spend a weekend living in solidarity with the homeless was a profound experience.

“We met some incredible people, who did what they could do to survive,” Deacon Briceno said.

Grateful to his family for understanding when he had to be away, Deacon Briceno is willing to serve wherever the Holy Spirit sends him.

Presently he leads the ministry to the homebound in his parish and plans to continue this work.

––––––––––––––––––––––––– Deacon Noel Caballero is married to Mari, and they have three daughters, ages 16, 14 and 10. They are members of St. Anthony Marie de Claret Parish in Kyle. He earned a master’s degree in chemistry from the University of Texas at El Paso and has worked as a research chemist for 19 years.

Deacon Caballero discerned his call through prayer and the help and encouragement of the formation team.

The challenges of formation included balancing his responsibilities to the program, his job and family life, and getting all the homework done.

For him, the Street Retreat was an especially humbling experience. Eating in a soup kitchen and staying among the homeless opened his eyes to a different way of life, and how many of us do not treat the poor as children of God. His heart was touched when he remembered that Jesus was born in miserable circumstances.

“Some of the candidates from

diaconate formation and I tried to panhandle. As we stood there for several hours, I felt the indifference and sometimes the hostility of people toward us. I got to experience a little of how the homeless feel forgotten, excluded and sometimes even stripped from their human dignity by the rest of society,” Deacon Caballero said.

Grateful for the understanding and support of his family, Deacon Caballero also expressed appreciation to Caminando con Jesus y Maria, his parish charismatic prayer group. As a deacon, he looks forward to serving wherever God calls.

––––––––––––––––––––––––– Deacon Keith Carter is married to Maureen, and they have an adult son. They are members of St. Theresa Parish in Austin. Deacon Carter graduated from the University of Texas with a degree in computer science and is retired from IBM after more than 30 years of service.

Active in his parish, Deacon Carter explained that a Bible study led by Father Justin Udomah and a Christ Renews His Parish (CRHP) retreat were “spiritual game changers that ignited a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.” Those experiences, as well as the example of his father, a Methodist minister, made him consider serving as a deacon.

In 2013, he met with Msgr. Bill Brooks, then pastor, who encouraged him to consider whether God was calling him. He sought the advice of family and friends, who also affirmed this direction in his life, and he is grateful for their ongoing support.

For Deacon Carter, the rewards of formation include a deepening of his relationships with God, his wife and his son, as well as the friendships he formed with his fellow candidates and their wives. An unexpected blessing was the opportunity to discuss what he was learning with his son, who offered insights from a different perspective.

Especially memorable was the time he and Maureen spent working with refugees in McAllen. Not only did he get a better understanding of their plight, Deacon Carter said, “I saw the Body of Christ in action through the many volunteers of all ages and faiths.”

As a deacon, he looks forward to serving his parish in homebound and hospital ministries, and in social Continued on Page 6

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APRIL 2019

Ways to give: • • • • • • •

Cash, check or money order Credit or debit card Electronic fund transfer Online: www.austindiocese.org/csa Text dollar amount to (512) 829-3826 One-time gift or over 5 months Stock transfer: Contact the Stewardship & Development Office at (512) 949-2450

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CENTRAL TEXAS

6 Deacons, continued from Page 4 outreach ministries such as the St. Vincent de Paul Society and Community First Village.

––––––––––––––––––––––––– Deacon Jaime Cervantes of St. William Parish in Round Rock is married to Guadalupe Morales, and they have three adult children. He studied chemical engineering at the University of Guadalajara and earned a master’s degree in education from the University of Texas. Deacon Cervantes’ career encompassed teaching and business computing, and today he is a school improvement consultant with the Texas Education Agency.

Several years ago, he and his wife were discussing what life would be like when they retired. It seems that God’s plans were different than their own.

During several occasions of Eucharistic Adoration, Deacon Cervantes believes he heard God asking him to become a deacon. At first, he thought this call was from his own thoughts.

Yet, over time the call became stronger, forcing him to consider it might indeed be from God. Finally, he believes Jesus spoke to him in a clear, kind voice.

“I said yes to his invitation and put

everything into his hands,” Deacon Cervantes said.

The challenges of formation were managing the time required for studies and other activities, and fulfilling his responsibilities as a husband, father and employee. He credits his wife with her enduring love and considers her to be a collaborator in ministry.

He believes that the greatest reward of formation was God transforming his heart.

“I’m not the same man I was six years ago. I put all my faith and my hope in God so that I can be the servant he wants me to be,” Deacon Cervantes said.

As a deacon, he hopes to minister to couples preparing for marriage, and help adults grown in their faith and relationship with God. ––––––––––––––––––––––––– Deacon Francisco Federico is originally from Mexico and is married to Patricia. Members of Sacred Heart Parish in Austin, they have three adult children and a 17-year old son. He works in the construction industry.

Since he and Patricia joined Sacred Heart, Deacon Federico has served the parish in a number of ministries, including prayer groups, hospitality and

lector. In 2010, he began discerning whether he should enter formation, but the time was not right. When the next class was forming in 2013, his pastor, Father Mark Hamlet, encouraged him to apply.

Formation provided challenges for Deacon Federico. Because he had not graduated from high school, he had to obtain a GED, and the academic requirements were difficult for someone who had been out of school for 28 years with limited English skills.

However, he persevered. When difficulties meeting the requirements of formation made him consider leaving the program, he appreciated the help he received from the formation team.

“I also talked with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. He told me to continue on. I could see the power of God in taking what was humanly impossible and making it possible,” he said.

For him, the rewards of formation were spiritual and academic growth.

He appreciates the sacrifices his wife and family made to help him, and the work of his children with translating the material.

As a deacon he looks forward to ministering to couples preparing for marriage.

CATHOLIC SPIRIT “It is marriage where the domestic church begins, and if we prepare couples well, we will have stronger Christian families,” Deacon Federico said.

––––––––––––––––––––––––– Deacon Oscar Gonzalez is married to Elizabeth Carrillo, and they are members of Sacred Heart Parish in Austin. He has a degree in systems engineering from the University of Nuevo León in Monterrey, Mexico.

With a diverse career, he presently does administrative work for St. Albert the Great Parish.

Deacon Gonzalez began to sense God’s call to the diaconate after a CRHP retreat in 2003. At the retreat, he understood, in a new way, the sacrifice Jesus made for us, and his personal call to serve others with the love of Christ. With his renewed sense of purpose, he coordinated other CRHP retreats, was a lector, extraordinary minister of holy Communion, helped prepare couples for marriage, and was a catechist for the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) ministry.

For him, the formation process was a time to grow both in knowledge and in faith. He especially enjoyed the academic classes, where he could learn Continued on Page 7

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Workshop brings musicians together in rhythm, unity

By Catholic Spirit Staff

Peter Kolar, a renowned Catholic composer, pianist, and speaker from El Paso, and the editor of Spanish and Bilingual Resources for GIA Publications, visited the Austin Diocese Feb. 22 and 23 to offer a concert and workshop for English and Spanish speaking parish musicians.

The events were sponsored by the diocesan Worship Office in collaboration with the Austin Chapter of the National Association of Pastoral Musicians. More than a hundred musicians attended from around the diocese.

The concert was held at St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Austin and featured songs written by Kolar and other Catholic composers. Many different styles of music were presented throughout the concert, said Andrea Ramos, the diocesan associate director for music.

“It was beautiful because the music allowed the audience and the musicians not only to praise God but also Deacons, continued from Page 6 more about the richness and heritage of Catholicism. His favorite classes covered the sacraments and bioethics, which studies the church’s teachings on human dignity as it relates to health care and science.

“Everything we learned has been valuable, allowing me to grow spiritually,” Deacon Gonzalez said.

He especially appreciates the ongoing support of his wife, and the fellowship he experienced with the other candidates and the formation team. As a deacon, he is happy to serve wherever God, through the leadership of the bishop, calls him.

––––––––––––––––––––––––– Deacon Javier Herrera is a member of St. Martin de Porres Parish in Dripping Springs. He is married to Nelda, has one adult son, and they look forward to welcoming their first grandchild in August. After a 20-year career in the retail grocery business, Deacon Herrera has been a surgical sales representative for 20 years, and enjoys helping physicians find solutions to patients’ medical needs.

Since high school, he has volunteered to serve others.

“After a short sabbatical from my faith, I realized that God was a very

to meditate and pray,” Ramos said.

The next day Kolar offered a workshop for English and Spanish speaking musicians at San José Parish in Austin.

He encouraged participants to discuss and to share their views and approaches to music ministry based on their cultural background.

Ramos said the workshop, entitled “Many Rhythms, One Prayer/Diversos Ritmos, una Oración,” fostered a deeper understanding of Hispanic and American culture, and the way both cultures envision their role as pastoral musicians.

“This was also an opportunity for both communities to come closer, recognize each other, and think about ways to work together and support each other at their parishes,” she said.

The workshop also exposed participants to bilingual music resources. Kolar addressed techniques to interpret Latin American rhythms and styles properly, while still remembering the role of the pastoral musician.

This allowed workshop participant

to learn practical skills and make music together, Ramos said.

“I am so grateful that so many musicians from our diocese were able to attend,” she said. “I look forward to more events like these where we can come together to share our talents, learn new things, and spread the message of unity.”

To learn about future workshops

important part of my life, and I wanted to set an example for my then young son,” Deacon Herrera said.

In his parish, he was a lector, extraordinary minister of Communion and catechist. In addition, he is a Vincentian and member of the Knights of Columbus.

After his mother died suddenly, his understanding of what God was asking him to do changed. As he was praying about whether to start the formation process, his pastor asked him if he had ever considered becoming a deacon.

When he brought the idea to his wife, Nelda told him that she and his late mother had discussed this several times.

Although she had previously told him about these conversations, he had not been ready to hear what they were saying.

“I have come to realize that God has always nudged me to answer the call to the diaconate. I chose to ignore the call,” Deacon Herrera said.

For him, formation has offered the opportunity to deepen his spirituality by striving to develop “the heart of Jesus” as he serves. The hardest part of formation was stepping away from leadership roles in the parish to meet the requirements of prayer and study.

Grateful to his family for their support and open to wherever God calls,

Deacon Herrera is especially interested in health-related and healing ministries and possibly becoming a chaplain.

––––––––––––––––––––––––– Deacon Dan Lanicek of St. Albert the Great Parish in Austin is married to Kim, and they have a son and daughter, both teenagers. He earned a master’s degree in computer science from the University of North Texas and has been a software engineer for Ultra Electronics for more than 16 years.

Within his parish, he and Kim coordinated the RCIA program. In addition he has coordinated the celebration of the liturgy for major feasts, and ministered to the sick, hospitalized and homebound.

Deacon Lanicek first heard God’s call about 12 years ago. His example in the parish led a series of people to ask him about whether he had ever considered the diaconate.

“It seemed kind of random. People who didn’t know me that well, including the principal of our daughter’s school, asked me about it,” Deacon Lanicek said.

However, family responsibilities make him conclude the time was not right. When he did begin formation, he found challenges in the new ministry experiences. Being with the poor and homeless during the Street Retreat was

“Many Rhythms, One Prayer,” the titles of a concert and a workshop held in February, brought together English and Spanish parish musicians from across the diocese. (Photo by Andrea Ramos)

and events for music ministers, contact Andrea Ramos in the diocesan Office of Worship at andrea-ramos@ austindiocese.org or (512) 949-2448. a profound experience and helped him understand what a deacon is called to do.

In addition, he has found a special calling in jail ministry.

“People who are incarcerated are forgotten. They are shunned, and that is where Christ is most needed,” Deacon Lanicek said.

He is grateful to his wife and family for supporting him and grateful to all those who helped with childcare so he and his wife could attend classes and retreats together. As a deacon he looks forward to continuing to serve in jail ministry and wherever else God calls him.

––––––––––––––––––––––––– Deacon Mark Molchen is a member of St. Louis King of France Parish in Austin. He earned a degree in computer science from Pennsylvania State University. He began his career as a software engineer with IBM in Poughkeepsie, New York. He is retired from IBM after 30 years of service.

Deacon Molchen came to Austin in 1997 on a six-month temporary assignment. He felt a strong call from God to stay, and found a new permanent job with IBM. He then began spiritual direction with Marist Father Continued on Page 9

GOOD NEWS CENTRAL TEXAS

2 8

CATHOLIC CATHOLICSPIRIT SPIRIT

String Prairie parishioners see the fruits of their generosity It was a windy Sunday morning in String Prairie when parishioners realized St. Mary of the Assumption Church itself was swaying during Mass, not the chandeliers overhead.

“The building shifted,” said James Page, a member of the mission parish of Sacred Heart in Rockne. Although the wooden church had been “state of the art” when it was built in 1901, and designed to withstand inclement weather, modern engineers and architects were concerned about its structural integrity.

The parish was overdue for a construction project. Over the last 10 years, the congregation has changed from a graying community to one bursting with young families. “We need more space to seat parishioners,” Page said.

Encountering

CHRIST Diocese of Austin

‘We’re going to bring our church back and put it the way it was.’

Thankfully, the parish began saving 50 years ago and started a capital campaign just prior to participating in the Pilot Phase of Encountering Christ, raising 110 percent of its $120,000 goal.

The community was in agreement to honor their spiritual home’s original design — not build a new structure. “The church is a major part of where we came from and who we are today, and we wanted to keep that,” said Michael Goertz, who served with Page on the parish’s Campaign Executive Committee during Encountering Christ.

The “renovation-expansion” of St. Mary of the Assumption Church honors the original 1901 structure.

Photos courtesy of St. Mary of the Assumption Parish, String Prairie

“It was always, ‘We’re going to bring our church back and put it the way it was,’” Goertz said. “And the people were excited.”

Last October, with approval from the diocese, parishioners began worshipping at Sacred Heart and the parish launched the “renovationexpansion” of the church. The goal is to increase the seating capacity by 50 percent to accommodate today’s 175 families and provide modern, accessible amenities, but have the church look as it did in 1901, Goertz said. For example, the beadboard on the walls and ceiling, long covered with acoustic tiles, has been revealed once again; the original hardwood floors refurbished; and the rose window, bell tower and steeple lost during a storm are being replicated.

Both Goertz and Page are grateful to parishioners for responding generously to their pastor, Salvatorian Father Dariusz Ziebowicz, during Encountering Christ, especially given the campaign’s timing on the heels of another fundraising initiative. “They made more sacrifices to enable the wants and needs of the diocese to go forward,” Goertz said. “When we finish with the construction and get the church back, they’ll really see and reap the benefits of their generosity.”

Photo courtesy of Sherrie Yowell Anderson and Debbie Yowell Farley

Stewardship is a family affair for Yowell sisters Christian stewardship is second nature to the Yowell sisters — now Sherrie Anderson and Debbie Farley — because it was a “family affair” for them growing up.

“Our parents came from very humble beginnings but through God’s grace, hard work and good business decisions, they were able to have some success and were able to make, later in life, major contributions to their parish and the diocese,” said Farley, a member of St. Paul Chong Hasang Parish in Harker Heights. “But my dad was always quick to remind all of us that it was God who had blessed us with the success, so it was only right to be a generous steward of what was really God’s gift.”

The two remember their mother, Johnnie Lou Yowell, sharing stories of how her family hosted Mass in their home for the Catholics of Elk since, with 10 siblings, theirs was the largest in town. (William “Bill” Yowell, her future husband, lived right next door.) Then, when the community joined together to build St. Joseph Church, she would pick flowers from the garden to decorate the altar every Sunday.

Supporting and participating in the church was “part of your life,” said Anderson, a member of St. Paul Parish in Austin. “You didn’t think about it.”

When Johnnie Lou and Bill Yowell married and moved to Killeen, they followed in their parents’ footsteps and helped establish the church there. Farley recalled, “My dad always tells me this story of how one day, he drove the priest in the area at that time, out to a cornfield on the north side of Killeen and said, ‘Father, I really think you need to look at this land and purchase it, and let’s build a church here.’ Fast forward, and that’s where St. Joseph’s stands today.”

Farley and Anderson are now following in their parents’ footsteps. Both are volunteering for their parishes’ Encountering Christ campaigns and responded generously when Bishop Joe Vásquez invited them to make a leadership gift to Encountering Christ.

“There was no question that we should support our diocese as the people before us did to give us the structure that we have now,” Anderson said. “We have to do our share to pay that forward and make sure that the diocese stays strong.”

Campaign Update $85,000,000 $80,000,000 $60,000,000 $40,000,000 $20,000,000 $0

GOAL: $85,000,000

Total raised to date: $43,945,260 Percent of goal: 52% Number of gifts: 6,452 Cash received: $10,623,522

APRIL 2019 Deacons, continued from Page 7 John Ulrich, who asked him if he had ever thought about becoming a deacon.

After considering the idea, he talked to his pastor, Father Larry Covington. He advised Deacon Molchen to take the step of becoming an acolyte to see if he enjoyed serving on the altar.

This experience led him to enter formation in 2005; however, he discerned that the time was not right. When Deacon Molchen retired in December 2013, he entered formation the next month.

While challenged by the theology assignments and writing reflection papers, he was rewarded by the opportunities for growing into the vocation that he was called to by God. He is grateful that although all of his family live outside of Texas, they have supported him with their prayers.

An especially powerful experience was street ministry in downtown Austin.

“People don’t expect Catholics to evangelize on the street, and many of those whom we met appreciated our presence and prayers,” Deacon Molchen said.

In fact, as a deacon, he wants to do more street evangelization, as well as serve the needy through the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and Mobile Loaves & Fishes.

“However, I wouldn’t be surprised if God calls me to a new ministry that I can’t picture myself doing now,” Deacon Molchen said.

––––––––––––––––––––––––– Deacon Giao Nguyen is married to Loan, and they have two daughters.

They are members of Holy Vietnamese Martyrs Parish in Austin. With a degree in electrical engineering, he has worked for IBM for 30 years.

Over the years, Deacon Nguyen has been active in many ministries. He did not give the diaconate serious consideration until December 2012. On his way to Mass, he was in a four-car accident caused by a driver running a red light. Although his car was totaled, he walked away uninjured.

“The accident served as a turning point in my discernment. God saved me for a purpose,” Deacon Nguyen said.

With Msgr. Joseph Nguyen’s advice and blessing, he turned in his application for the diaconate formation program right before the deadline.

Juggling family, work and the responsibilities of formation was chal-

CENTRAL TEXAS lenging. Yet, even when the stress level was high, Deacon Nguyen learned to turn to God. “These are the times God called me to surrender, to pray, to contemplate and to trust in his divine providence,” he said.

Deacon Nguyen learned a profound lesson during sidewalk street evangelization with another candidate.

A powerfully-built man got out of his car, amid the blaring horns, and approached them. They did not know if the man would threaten their safety.

The man knelt before them, raised his arms, and asked for prayer.

“God has taught me a huge lesson.

The purpose of street evangelization is not to confront people, but to be present, to be a witness for Christ,” Deacon Nguyen said.

Grateful to his family for their support, Deacon Nguyen especially appreciates the sacrifices his youngest daughter made when he and his wife had to be away for classes and retreats.

As a deacon, he looks forward to visiting the sick, teaching and preparing couples for marriage.

––––––––––––––––––––––––– Deacon Héctor Ortiz is married to Lydia. They have two children, ages 15 and 13. In 2018, during formation, they were reassigned to St. John Vianney Parish in Round Rock, leaving St. Theresa Parish in Austin, where they have many fond memories and strong ties.

Deacon Ortiz was born and raised in Puerto Rico, and came to Texas through an Army assignment at Fort Hood. He holds a master’s degree in public affairs from the University of Texas and is an account manager at a software company.

He first heard God’s call to the diaconate after attending a CRHP retreat.

Surrendering to God’s will has been the most challenging part of the formation process. Most rewarding has been the opportunity to discern God’s presence in everyday life and to grow in spiritual clarity.

Changing parishes at the request of the bishop cemented his understanding of the deacon’s commitment to obedience to the bishop and the church.

“This reassignment revealed to me that my call to the diaconate was a grace from God that I could not relinquish,” Deacon Ortiz said.

Deacon Ortiz is grateful to his wife, children and friends for helping him remain strong and focused during formation. When he began the process, his

children were 10 and 8 years old. Job and formation responsibilities required him to sacrifice time with family. He had to trust in and rely on the help of friends to make it possible for him and Lydia to attend classes and retreats.

He is also thankful for the welcome he received at St. John Vianney Parish.

As a deacon, he is open to serving wherever assigned, and thinks perhaps he has a special calling to minister to victims of natural disasters.

––––––––––––––––––––––––– Deacon Jose Rivera of Emmaus Parish in Lakeway is married to Aracely, and they have two adult daughters.

Originally from El Salvador, he is a video engineer and has been employed

by Charter Communication-Spectrum for 29 years.

Previously a member of St. Vincent de Paul Parish, he was active within the Spanish community and ministered through the Spanish liturgies. Bishop Daniel E. Garcia, then his pastor, invited him to apply to the formation program. Because his children were older, he felt free to accept this invitation.

He credits and is grateful to his wife for accepting her call to grow in faith by walking along with and supporting him.

Balancing the time requirements of formation and his job responsibilities was a challenge, but he found that God always provided the path. The most rewarding part of formation was getting to know the other candidates and sharing their faith stories while journeying together.

“We are from different cultures, have different backgrounds and personalities. Yet, in our differences we see our strength, and so many gifts and good that we can offer our church and communities,” Deacon Rivera said.

One of the unique experiences of his own life was meeting St. Oscar Romero, the assassinated archbishop of San Salvador.

“Even though I was pretty young when he died, I was able to understand the causes and struggles he was facing.

I would like to see the face of Our Lord in the less fortunate as he did,” Deacon Rivera said.

As a deacon, he feels a special desire to minister to the needy and get them integrated into parish life. He also enjoys teaching and is open to wherever God asks him to help.

––––––––––––––––––––––––– Deacon Hector Rodriguez of St. Anthony Marie de Claret Parish in Kyle is married to Lizette, and they have

9 three adult children. The couple own several businesses, and with 25 years’ experience in clothing sales, Deacon Rodriguez is a manager and entrepreneur, with four online stores and an event center.

Although he has been a lifelong Catholic, some experiences in 2007 brought him closer to God. As a result, he became more active in the parish.

In 2010, he began to sense that God was calling him to the diaconate, but the time was not right until three years later.

“It was several years of discerning, questioning and much spiritual direction before I finally started the formation process. This has been a great blessing for me and my family,” Deacon Rodriguez said.

During formation, he gained a deeper knowledge of the person of Jesus, cultivating a friendship with Our Lord and Savior.

“One cannot say that he loves what he does not know,” Deacon Rodriguez said.

He had to miss family activities and events to meet the requirements of formation, which was a sacrifice for him and those he loved. He appreciates his family’s support throughout the years.

Feeling a special call to preaching and missionary activity, Deacon Rodriguez is grateful for the dedication of the formation team and the thorough preparation that he and the other candidates received.

––––––––––––––––––––––––– Deacon Jesús Spindola Molier is a member of St. William Parish of Round Rock. Originally from Venezuela, he and his wife Yudaima Spindola Rodriguez are the parents of three adult sons and one adult daughter. Currently working in customer service, he holds a bachelor’s degree and has had a diverse career.

He believes he first heard God’s call to the diaconate when he lived in Miami. In prayer during Eucharistic Adoration, he sensed Jesus was asking him to take care of his people by being his eyes, ears and voice. Later this call was confirmed when, after only being in Round Rock a few days, he was asked by other deacons to consider becoming a candidate.

As with most of the candidates, time management to meet the requirements of formation, his job and family life was a challenge. However, the example of the formation team inspired him, and the academic knowledge presented was spiritually enriching.

Continued on Page 10

CENTRAL TEXAS

10 Deacons, continued from Page 9 He explained that the Street Retreat, where candidates ministered to the homeless, changed his life.

“It made me wake up and see they are children of God. Now, I don’t ignore them. I greet them, bless them, and many times I buy them some fast food,” Deacon Spindola said. At times, if he senses they are open, he will speak to them about the love of Christ.

In addition to continuing this ministry, as a deacon, he also wants to serve the sick and help prepare couples for the sacrament of marriage. Appreciating the support of his wife and family, he is grateful they have been able to grow spiritually together through the formation process.

––––––––––––––––––––––––– Deacon Steve Tedesco of St. Margaret Mary Parish in Cedar Park is married to Jennie and they have six adult children. Retired from IBM, he is currently the maintenance supervisor for the parish.

As a child, Deacon Tedesco felt a special call to give attention and love to other children and the elderly. About 20 years ago, he encountered a mentor, Warren Hass, who inspired him to do

the work of God in his life.

In 2010, he believes God more directly called him to the diaconate, but also discerned that it was God’s wish for him to wait and focus on his family. In 2012, he applied to be a candidate, and although there were twists and turns in the application process, he experienced a sense of peace and joy.

Balancing the requirements of formation with his family life and job were challenging, but with God’s help and his family’s encouragement, he persevered. Deacon Tedesco describes the greatest reward of formation as letting go of the person he thought he was and allowing himself to be reconfigured into the servant Jesus calls him to be.

“The Holy Spirit gives me courage to enter into places where I was once uncomfortable. Encountering and physically touching those I might have avoided before changed my heart,” Deacon Tedesco said.

Grateful to his wife, family and parish for their support and encouragement, Deacon Tedesco also believes his mother and father, who passed away during his time of formation, continue to support him in prayer.

As a deacon, he looks forward to ministering to those who are lost or

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Annunciation Maternity Home’s 17th Annual Gala Keynote Address by The Most Reverend

Joe S. Vásquez Bishop of Austin

The problem with our society is that we draw the circle of family too small.

Mother Teresa Friday, May 10th, 2019 — 7:00pm to 9:00pm Sheraton Hotel in Georgetown, Texas Please register to attend: www.thematernityhome.org/gala2019 For more information about event details, sponsorship opportunities, or ticket pricing, call (512) 864-7755 or email donate@thematernityhome.org.

confused, the sick, and the dying.

“The truth and love of Christ needs to be given to all. That’s what God wants me to do,” Deacon Tedesco said.

––––––––––––––––––––––––– Deacon Paul Yehl of St. Elizabeth of Hungary Parish in Pflugerville is married to Melissa, and they have an adult son and daughter. He holds a degree in electrical engineering from the Rochester Institute of Technology.

He worked in technology for 25 years.

Today, he and his wife own a property management company and manage homeowner associations.

Deacon Yehl believes that God has been calling him to the diaconate for many years, beginning with his first holy Communion. In 2009, he made an Adoration, Community, Theology and Service (ACTS) retreat.

“I strongly felt God speaking to me during the talk on the sacraments. The flame of desire has been burning within my heart since that day,” Deacon Yehl said.

His greatest challenge and reward of formation was growing in his spiritual life.

“The spiritual development of a deacon is firmly based on the sacrament of reconciliation. Without a clean heart, pure soul and clear mind, the Holy Spirit is elusive. Spending time in prayer with a heart free from sin is vital to the development of a good homily and good pastoral care,” he said.

One profound experience of formation was the Street Retreat, where candidates spent time on the streets ministering to and learning from the homeless.

“Those on the street, amid all their struggles with addiction and homelessness, are more noticeably dependent on Christ and have a thirst for hope more than any other people I have met in ministry,” Deacon Yehl said.

He expressed appreciation for the support of his family, who have also grown in faith throughout the formation process. As a deacon, he looks forward to continuing to work in prison ministry, youth ministry, and caring pastorally for those in his church community.

––––––––––––––––––––––––– Deacon Juan Jose Zepeda is originally from Guatemala. He is married to Clara and they have five adult children.

A licensed plumber, he has practiced this profession for more than 20 years.

They are members of Sacred Heart Parish in Elgin, where he has served as a lector, an extraordinary minister of holy Communion, a catechist and

CATHOLIC SPIRIT he worked with the Christian Family Movement, Deacon Zepeda believes he first heard God’s call to the diaconate at Cristo Rey Parish in Austin. There he attended a series of lectures on Christianity and participated in Eucharistic Adoration. The pastor encouraged him to apply. When he moved to Elgin, his pastor there also encouraged him to apply. Because the Hispanic population was growing, a deacon with Spanish language skills was desperately needed.

Deacon Zepeda was challenged by his studies, both by the material and the time commitment required for the work. For him, the Street Retreat was a special experience.

There he encountered men and women who had much sadness and pain in their lives, but also knew that God loved them and does not look down on them because of their situation. He was especially touched by his encounter with an old man who had been living under bridges for five years. He continues to pray for him and others in the same situation.

Deacon Zepeda appreciates the support of his wife, who encouraged him throughout the formation process.

“When I felt weak, she encouraged me to keep going,” he said.

As a deacon, he hopes to minister to the sick and those in prison.

The 2019 Class of Permanent Deacons includes: Victor Alvarado Peter Barger Mark Bennett Raul (Roy) Briceno Noel C. Caballero Keith Carter Jaime Cervantes Scott Dillon Mark Fair Francisco Federico Oscar Gonzalez Guy Helou Javier Herrera Dan Lanicek Robert Lindberg Mark Molchen Don Moore Giao Duy Nguyen Hector Ortiz Phuc Thanh Phan Rod Reyna Jose Rivera Hector Rodriguez Terry Snell Jesus Spindola Steven Tedesco Corby Weiss Mark White Paul Yehl Juan Jose Zepeda Daniel Guerra (died in Aug. 2018)

CENTRAL TEXAS

APRIL 2019

Struggling couples invited to Retrouvaille Attention married couples: Do you feel alone? Are you frustrated or angry with each other? Do you argue or have you just stopped talking to each other? Does talking about it only make it worse? Retrouvaille (pronounced retro-vi) helps couples through difficult times in their marriages. For confidential information about Retrouvaille or how to register for the program beginning with a weekend on April 12-14, call 1-800-470-2230 or visit www.helpourmarriage.com.

Leadership series on discipleship The diocesan Office of Evangelization and Catechesis is launching a leadership series for the New Evangelization this summer. Go & Make Disciples is a three-part series (May 11, June 1 and July 13) focused on forming men and women as missionary disciples, challenging them to deepen their own relationship with Jesus and to share him and his teachings with others. Through these dynamic and engaging sessions, participants become better equipped for success in their evangelization efforts. For more information and to register, visit www. austindiocese.org/missionarydisciples.

Good Friday Pilgrimage through Austin The ninth annual Good Friday Pilgrimage will be held April 19 beginning at 12:30 p.m. at St. Mary Cathedral in Austin. “Walk With Christ” through the streets of Austin to the Marian Shrine of Our Lady of Schoenstatt in West Austin. The pilgrimage will stop along the way to pray the Stations of the Cross and to rest. Transportation to the shrine is available at the rest stops for those pilgrims who choose to only walk a portion of the 9-mile pilgrimage.

For more information, visit www.schoenstatt.us or call (512) 330-0602.

Sacred Music Camp is June 3-7 Youth in second through 12th grades are invited to attend Music Alive!

Sacred Music Camp June 3-7 from 1 to 5:30 p.m. at St. Theresa Parish in Austin. Separate tracks are offered for different age groups including tracks for

11

strings, organ, guitar, and voice for middle school and high school youth. Register at https://sttaustin.org/sacred-music-camp. For more information, contact the Music Ministry Office at (512) 451-5132 or dgirardot@sttaustin.org.

Retreats offered by Cedarbrake A Holy Thursday and Good Friday Retreat will be held April 18-19 at Cedarbrake Catholic Retreat Center in Belton. Come and pray on two of the most sacred days of the year. This silent retreat will begin on Thursday at 4 p.m. with a conference, meal and then Mass of the Lord’s Supper at 7 p.m.

Friday will be a conference, Stations of the Cross and conclude with the Good Friday liturgy at 3 p.m. The cost for the overnight retreat is $120 for a private room, $85 per person for a shared room and $55 for commuter. Beverly Collin, Brian Egan and Franciscan Father Albert Haase will lead this retreat.

The Spirituality of Hospice care will be held April 27 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Cedarbrake. Debbie George, a hospice chaplain, will present the spiritual, clinical and social aspects of hospice care. The cost is $40 and includes lunch.

The Be Attitudes: Ten Paths to Holiness Retreat will be held at St. Jerome Parish in Waco on May 7 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. This day of reflection will explore 10 challenging ways of becoming a saint. The retreat will be led by Franciscan Father Albert Haase. Cost is $40 and includes lunch.

To register for these retreat or to learn about all that Cedarbrake has to offer, visit www.cedarbrake.org or call (254) 780-2436.

Byzantine traditions offered in Austin The Byzantine Catholic Community of Austin meets every Sunday at 5 p.m. at Holy Cross Parish in Austin. Come experience the richness and beauty of the liturgical tradition of Constantinople. Special Lenten services are held every Thursday at 7 p.m., with Anointing of the Sick on April 11. All Catholics, and anyone interested in experiencing worship according to the rich traditions of the Greek Christian East, are cordially invited to attend. For more information, contact Deacon Jeff Mierzejewski at (412) 735-1575.

GO & MAKE DISCIPLES Go & Make Disciples is a three-part series focused on forming men and women as Missionary Disciples, challenging them to deepen their own relationship with Jesus and to share Him and His teachings with others.

mAY 11 - DISCOVER JESUs with FR. BRUCE NIELI, C.S.P., & SR. HELEN RAYCRAFT, O.P.

JUNE 1 - tRANSFOMED! with MARCEL LEJEUNE & PAUL GEORGE

JULY 13 - DISCERNING MY CHARISMS with JOSE JUAN VALDEZ & DAWN ROUEN

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.AUSTINDIOCESE.ORG/MISSIONARYDISCIPLES

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IN OU R W ORLD

CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Mary assists those seeking their vocation, pope says

By Carol Glatz | Catholic News Service

Signing his document dedicated to young people, faith and discernment, Pope Francis said Mary, the mother of God, is a source of inspiration and strength for everyone who seeks to understand their vocation and remain faithful to it.

Greeting some 10,000 people, many of them families and young people, in Loreto, Italy, on the feast of the Annunciation, the pope said Mary can help all believers dedicate themselves to “the path of peace and fraternity, founded on welcoming and forgiving, on respect for others and on love as a gift of oneself.”

“Mary is the model of every vocation and the inspiration of every vocational pastoral program: Young people who are seeking or questioning their future can find Mary to be the one who helps them discern God’s plan for them and find the strength to follow it.”

The pope chose to visit the Italian seaside town of Loreto on the March 25 feast day to sign his postsynodal apostolic exhortation –– titled in Spanish, “Vive Cristo, esperanza nuestra,” (“Christ, Our Hope, Lives”).

The document, based on discussions and input garnered from the world Synod of Bishops on “young people, faith and vocational discernment,” was to be released to the public April 2, the anniversary of the death of St. John Paul II. The intention was “to connect two pontificates, so loved and close to the younger generations,” said Alessandro Gisotti, interim director of the Vatican press office.

The pope signed the document at the altar inside the small, one-room Holy House of Loreto, which tradition holds is where Mary was born and raised and where the Holy Family was thought to have lived when Jesus was a boy. It also is held to be the place where Mary received the angel’s annunciation and conceived the Son of God through the Holy Spirit.

In his talk to those gathered in the square in front of the basilica housing the sanctuary, the pope said he wanted to sign the document on the date and at the place of the Annunciation to highlight how the Annunciation reveals what is necessary in the vocational process: listening to God’s word and God’s will, inquisitive discernment and bold decision-making.

God always makes the first move, offering people the gift of his love, Pope Francis said.

“One must be ready and willing to listen and welcome God’s voice,” which is hard to recognize if life is too “noisy” or agitated, he said. Quiet and extended reflection is necessary, he said, if one is going to be able to go below the surface and discover the “moral and spiritual forces” at work in one’s life.

And God is always at work, giving and providing for his disciples no matter how “poor and small” they may be, he added.

Because young people and families are not two separate realities, he said, pastoral programs and outreach must be dedicated to both at the same time because “very often young people are what their family gave them with their upbringing.”

“It is necessary to rediscover God’s plan for the family,” he said, which is “founded on marriage between a man and a woman,” and to emphasize the family’s “great and irreplaceable” role in serving life and the community.

The pope prayed that God, through Mary’s intercession, would help the faithful bring the “Gospel of peace and life to our peers, who are often distracted, caught up in material interests” or surrounded by a spiritual desert.

“There is a need for people who are simple and wise, humble and courageous, poor and generous. In other words, people who, taught by Mary, welcome the Gospel without reservation into their life.”

The pope began his visit to the sanctuary with a long moment of quiet prayer seated inside the Holy House.

He venerated the statue of Our Lady

Pope Francis signed the postsynodal apostolic exhortation, “Christ, Our Hope, Lives,” on the feast of the Annunciation in Loreto, Italy. The text was published April 2. (CNS photo/ Vatican Media via Reuters)

of Loreto, which in 1922 was carved out of cedar trees from the Vatican Gardens to copy the 14th-century figure destroyed in a fire.

He then celebrated a private Mass inside the Holy House with a small number of people, while thousands watched on large screens inside the basilica and outside in the square.

When Mass was over, the pope signed the postsynodal document on the altar, under the image of Mary, so as to entrust to her the document and its fruitful pastoral outcome. The pope also placed a gift on the altar –– a golden stem of roses in a small silver urn.

Cardinal DiNardo continues recovery After being hospitalized after suffering a stroke while praying the Stations of the Cross March 15, Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo of Galveston-Houston, who is president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, was discharged March 20 from St. Joseph Medical Center in Houston and was transferred to a nearby rehabilitation program.

Doctors expect him to make a full recovery, according to a statement from the archdiocese released that day.

“I could not be more grateful to the truly wonderful doctors and nurses at St. Joseph’s for their expert care and compassion, which has helped hasten my way down the road to a full recovery,” Cardinal DiNardo said in the statement. “I am also doubly thankful for the many kind wishes and especially the prayers that have been directed toward my healing, which I can assure you are making a true difference. I look forward to getting back to work soon, and continuing the important work we have before us.”

During his recovery, Cardinal DiNardo has assigned his USCCB duties to Los Angeles Archbishop Jose H. Gomez, vice president of the conference, as provided for in the USCCB bylaws. The cardinal has headed the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston since 2006.

–– James Ramos, Catholic News Service

IN OU R W ORLD

APRIL 2019

13

‘Unplanned’ film is story of ‘hope, forgiveness and love’

By Natalie Hoefer | Catholic News Service

Abby Johnson’s life had already become an open book. Soon it also will become a national box office show.

“It’s not a film inspired by my life story,” she said. “It is my life story.”

Johnson, 38, is a former pro-choice Planned Parenthood facility director turned national pro-life advocate. She made the comments March 14 during a webinar about the film “Unplanned,” which is based on her 2011 book of the same name.

Joining her on the webinar were Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City, Kansas, who is chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities, and Vicki Thorn, executive director of the National Office of Post-Abortion Reconciliation and Healing and founder of the Project Rachel post-abortion ministry.

The movie officially opened in theaters the weekend of March 29.

As suggested in the film’s tagline, “What she saw changed everything.”

Johnson said the movie “will expose

(viewers) to the truth of what happens inside the abortion industry.”

But mostly, she noted, the film is about the “amazing, ready mercy of Jesus Christ that is available to everyone — whether you’ve been touched by abortion or not — that Christ is so ready to redeem us.”

This story, said Archbishop Naumann, “has the power to open hearts, change minds and inspire people.”

He compared Johnson’s story of conversion to that of Saul to St. Paul, but “for the pro-life movement.”

“I think stories are the way people are moved today, not so much by reason,” Archbishop Naumann said.

“And film in particular has the ability to inspire people.”

Johnson admitted that the release of the film has made her feel “vulnerable.”

After watching the film for the first time with her husband, Doug, in their Colorado home, she felt a bit of panic.

“I looked at Doug and said, ‘Is it too late? Can I back out?’ I felt so exposed, especially the scene with my RU-486 (chemical) abortion,” Johnson said.

“I had to remind myself that I didn’t sign on to do this film to make ‘Abby Johnson’ a household name. I signed on to truly amplify God and make him a household name and show his redeeming power. None of this is about me. This is his story,” she said emphatically.

Johnson’s story of God’s redemption in her life began to unfold in September 2009. Johnson, then one of Planned Parenthood’s youngest facility directors, was called in to assist with an abortion.

What she saw on the ultrasound convinced her that what she’d been told about abortion — and what she’d repeated to women for nearly 22,000 abortions under her watch at Planned Parenthood — was grossly wrong.

While her story had already been told in her book, Johnson agreed to spread that story further when she was approached five years ago about making it into a movie.

But she didn’t say yes to just anyone to share her story on film; she turned to Chuck Konzelman and Cary Solomon, both devout Catholics with years of experience in the film industry.

Konzelman and Solomon co-pro-

duced, co-wrote and co-directed “Unplanned,” which is being distributed by Pure Flix.

“Unplanned” provides an opportunity not just to observe compassion, but to experience it as well. At the end of the film, Johnson said, a number will appear on the screen.

“So if a woman is in a crisis pregnancy, needs help after an abortion, if a man needs post-abortion help, if someone works or worked in the (abortion) industry — there will be help for them right after the film ... staffed 24/7,” she explained.

Because of a scene depicting the truth of what an abortion looks like, Johnson explained, the film received an R rating from the Motion Picture Association of America.

“Don’t let the R rating scare you.

“Nothing is over dramatic” in the film, she assured. “Abortion is bad enough — we didn’t have to embellish anything.”

For more information on Project Rachel, the church’s healing ministry for those who suffer because of an abortion, contact project-rachel@ austindiocese.org or (512) 949-2488.

Cedarbrake Catholic Retreat Center Reflexionando sobre el amor de nuestro Señor, April 13, 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

El Retiro de Cuaresma Reflexionando sobre el amor de nuestro Señor, con el Padre Henry Cuellar se llevará a cabo en Cedarbrake Catholic Retreat Center, el sábado 13 de abril 2019 de 9:30 a.m. a 2:30 p.m.

Encontrando y viviendo la Misericordia: a veces sentimos que nuestro pecado es más grande que la misericordia de Dios. Pero, la realidad es que la misericordia de Dios es mucho más grande. Vengan a un dia de reflexión con el Padre Henry Cuellar Jr, Pastor Asociado de St. William, para empezar el proceso de recibir la misericordia. El costo sera de $35 e incluira el almuerzo. Por favor de inscribirse a mas tardar el lunes 6 de abril.

A Holy Thursday & Good Friday Retreat, April 18-19

Come and pray on two of the most sacred days of the year. This silent retreat will begin on Thursday at 4 p.m. with a conference, meal and then Mass of the Lord’s Supper at 7 p.m. Friday will be a conference, Stations of the Cross and conclude with the Good Friday liturgy at 3 p.m. The cost for the overnight retreat is $120 for a private room, $85 per person for a shared room and $55 for commuter. Beverly Collin, Brian Egan and Franciscan Father Albert Haase will lead this retreat.

Spirituality of Hospice, April 27, 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

The Spirituality of Hospice care will be held April 27 from 9 a.m. -2:30 p.m. at Cedarbrake Catholic Retreat Center. Debbie George, hospice chaplain, will present the spiritual, clinical and social aspects of hospice care. The cost is $40 and includes lunch.

To Register: 254-780-2436 or cedarbrake@austindiocese.org Website: www.cedarbrake.org 5602 State Hwy 317 N Temple, TX 76502

Cedarbrake on the Road: The BE Attitudes: Ten Paths to Holiness at St. Jerome Parish in Waco, May 7, 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

The Be Attitudes: Ten Paths to Holiness Retreat will be held at St. Jerome Parish in Waco on May 7 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The day will explore 10 challenging ways of becoming a saint. The retreat will be led by Franciscan Father Albert Haase. Cost is $40 and includes lunch.

Summer Silent Retreat, June 7-12

IN OU R W ORLD

14

CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Pope: Lent is a season of grace, don’t let it pass in vain

By Junno Arocho Esteves | Catholic News Service

The Lenten season is a reminder for Catholics that overindulgence ruptures communion with God, with others and with creation, Pope Francis said.

A failure to live as children of God can give way to sin, which “takes the shape of greed and unbridled pursuit of comfort, lack of concern for the good

of others and even of oneself,” the pope said in his message for Lent, which begins March 6 for Latin-rite Catholics.

“Unless we tend constantly toward Easter, toward the horizon of the Resurrection, the mentality expressed in the slogans ‘I want it all and I want it now!’ and ‘Too much is never enough,’ gains the upper hand,” he said.

The pope’s Lenten message centered on a verse from St. Paul’s Letter to the Romans in which the apostle proclaims

Lenten Mission - Misión Cuaresmal The Triduum: A Journey from Death into Life El Triduo: Un Paso de la Muerte a la Vida Presenter: Father Leobardo Almazan

Mision Cuaresmal en español Viernes, 12 de abril 7 p.m. a las 10 p.m.

Parroquia de San José en Austin

Para asistir, inscribase llamando a la Oficina Parroquial al (512) 444-7587 antes del 8 de abril.

Lenten Mission in English Saturday, April 13 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

San José Parish in Austin

To attend, register by calling the Parish Office at (512) 444-7587 by April 8.

creation’s “eager longing for the revealing of the children of God.” This longing, the pope said, is “a journey from Easter to Easter toward the fulfillment of the salvation” that all Christians have received through Jesus’ death and resurrection.

Reflecting on the Lenten “journey of conversion,” the pope explained that when Christians live as children of God, all creation benefits from the grace of redemption.

However, he warned, “the harmony generated by redemption is constantly threatened by the negative power of sin and death.”

Sin, which is the root of all evil, disrupts “our communion with God” and “undermines our harmonious relationship with the environment” and leads “man to consider himself the god of creation,” the pope said.

“It leads to the exploitation of creation, both persons and the environment, due to the insatiable covetousness which sees every desire as a right and sooner or later destroys all those in its grip,” he added.

The journey to Easter, he continued,

is a time where Christians can renew themselves through “repentance, conversion and forgiveness.”

“Lent is a sacramental sign of this conversion,” the pope said. “It invites Christians to embody the paschal mystery more deeply and concretely in their personal, family and social lives, above all by fasting, prayer and almsgiving.”

Fasting, he explained, leads Christians away from the temptation “to ‘devour’ everything to satisfy our voracity,” while prayer “teaches us to abandon idolatry and the self-sufficiency of our ego.”

Additionally, almsgiving helps Christians “escape from the insanity of hoarding everything for ourselves in the illusory belief that we can secure a future that does not belong to us.”

Pope Francis said that through their Lenten journey, Christians can bring “the hope of Christ also to creation, so that it may be free from its bondage to decay and obtain the glorious liberty of the children of God.” “Let us not allow this season of grace to pass in vain!” the pope said. “Let us ask God to help us set out on a path of true conversion.”

Our Lady’s Annual Field of Flowers Day Saturday, April 13th from 1 to 4pm

Our Lady is proud to announce the new Forest Garden and Saint John Paul II Garden.

Experience the legendary meadows of bluebonnets and wildflowers, walk the nature trails and enjoy the beautiful art and monuments. A professional photographer will be available for complimentary photos. Light refreshments served from 1 to 4pm.

330 Berry Lane, Georgetown, Texas 78626 www.olotr.com • (512) 863-8411

GOOD NEWS

APRIL 2019

15

BISHOP’S INTERVIEW

May these final weeks of Lent bring true conversion Bishop Joe S. Vásquez is the fifth bishop of the Austin Diocese, which is home to more than 530,000 Catholics.

Editor: Bishop, the liturgical season of Lent is well underway.

How can we make these last weeks of Lent simple yet meaningful and purposeful?

Bishop Vásquez: As Catholics we begin the Lenten season with genuine and truly good intentions. However, we are human and our good intentions often are derailed because we treat our Lenten sacrifices like New Year’s resolutions. It’s been scientifically proven that 80 percent of New Year’s resolution fail by Feb. 1. Let’s not take that approach!

First we must think seriously about where God wants us to grow spiritually. We can ask ourselves: Where is God asking me to focus my attention?

Maybe I need to spend more time with family? Maybe I am spending too much time with social media? Maybe I need to pray more often or read sacred Scripture?

We must remember to look to God to see where he wants us to grow spiritually. God invites each of us to true change and a conversion of heart during Lent. This is the time where we say, “God, I have looked at my life, and these are the areas where I know I’m clearly failing. I need your help.

Only with your grace can I overcome

Bishop Joe Vásquez welcomed catechumens during the Rite of Election ceremonies that were held March 9 and 10 at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish in College Station and St. John Vianney Parish in Round Rock. This year in the Diocese of Austin more than 400 men and women will be welcomed into the church during the Easter Vigil. (Photo by Rilla Chacka)

bad habits, bad attitudes, selfish actions, etc.”

The church gives us three ways to help us look beyond ourselves: we pray, we fast and we give alms. Prayer puts God first, and helps us realize that we are not the center of life, but God is the center. Giving alms to the

and said even if you now have not kept the promises you began with at the beginning of Lent, do not be discouraged. I think we can all get discouraged. Sometimes we do really well for the first and the second week and then we fail miserably, and we revert to our old ways.

As we enter Holy Week, it is good for us to look again at the promises we made during Lent.

Could we do something extra to show our love for Christ who willingly sacrificed himself out of love for his father and humanity? .... What can we do to unite our hearts with Christ? poor helps us think about our brothers and sisters who are in need; therefore, it shifts our focus to those around us and helps us share our gifts with others. Fasting also helps us to let go of food or drink or bad habits that can often control us. By letting go of certain things, we are able to pay attention to persons and act in a way that places our dependence on God. This is a radical shift for many of us because a true conversion of heart is a radical shift! As we continue through Lent, we must continue to ask God to make us into who he wants us to be, which is more like his Son, Jesus Christ.

Editor: By now many of us have fallen off the wagon, so to speak.

How do we keep going? How do we keep moving forward?

Bishop Vásquez: I love St. John Chrysostom who in one of his Palm Sunday homilies spoke to the people

We do not need to beat ourselves.

What we need to do is trust God to show us how to depend on him and recommit ourselves to him. Lent is about grace. I truly believe God gives us the grace we need to make permanent changes in our lives, but we must respond to that grace. For example, if I am asking for patience, God is going to put me in situations where I have to face my own impatience. When we are sincere, God will also give us the ability and the grace to be more patient or to make other long-lasting changes in our lives.

One thing that gives me hope and encouragement is that I am part of a greater community –– the church.

We are a community of believers who together are striving to grow in holiness during this Lenten season. Whatever our penitential practices may be, we are all in this together, which gives us encour-

agement to keep seeking the conversion of our hearts.

One sign of solidarity is the traditional Lenten practice of praying the Stations of the Cross. We come together to follow Christ and we embrace his cross in our own lives as well. By deepening our relationship with the community of the church, the entire community, the Body of Christ, is strengthened.

Another example of solidarity this Lent is to find a prayer partner or to join a group of people to pray the rosary or to study Scripture on a regular basis. Or we could invite a friend to attend daily Mass with you during Lent. Another way could be visiting the homebound with a friend or family member. There are so many ways in which we can support one another during this Lenten season.

Editor: As we draw near to Holy Week, how can we prepare ourselves and our families for the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Christ?

Bishop Vásquez: The church sees Holy Week as the holiest week of the year yet the church has never made the Triduum days of obligation. The church does not force us to come, but we are all invited to participate and to celebrate Holy Week because these are the mysteries that save us. The mysteries of Jesus’ Passion, Death and Resurrection bring salvation to all.

As we enter Holy Week, it is good for us to look again at the promises we made during Lent. Could we do something extra to show our love for Christ who willingly sacrificed himself out of love for his father and humanity?

Could we pray a few more minutes each day? Could we spend more time with those we love? What can we do to show God that we are grateful for sending us his Son who suffered and died for us?

What can we do to unite our hearts with Christ?

Editor: What is your prayer for all of us as we count down the weeks to Easter?

Bishop Vásquez: I pray during these last few weeks of Lent we may experience true conversion of heart.

May we also experience God’s mercy so that we may live in true freedom, which allows us to be fully alive. Ultimately, I pray we will experience the great joy of the Resurrection on Easter Sunday because it is a glimpse into the life that God offers us with him for all eternity.

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GOOD NEWS

CATHOLIC SPIRIT

ETHICS AND INTEGRITY

The light of Christ must be transmitted with transparency

By Emily Hurlimann | Guest Columnist

The actions of all in church leadership must be transparent and accountable. This has been the outcry of many over the last several months as our church has dealt with the current sexual abuse crisis.

April is child abuse prevention month, but in reality, every month and every day must be dedicated to the prevention of abuse. Furthermore, interactions between all adults, regardless of status or sex or age or opinion or ability, must reach toward the highest standard of ethical conduct.

Merriam-Webster defines transparent as “having the property of transmitting light without appreciable scattering, so that bodies lying beyond are seen clearly.”

The church must be able to transmit the light of Christ without any impediment so that the Body of Christ may see Christ clearly. With transparency and accountability, I offer what the Diocese of Austin continues to do to prevent abuse and to help those who have been abused.

Every year each diocese in the U.S. submits data verifying compliance with the U.S. bishop’s “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People” as part of an annual audit. The Diocese of Austin passed this year’s audit and is in compliance.

Here are a few diocesan highlights from the most recent audit:

April is child abuse prevention month, but in reality, every month and every day must be dedicated to the prevention of abuse. Furthermore, interactions between all adults, regardless of status or sex or age or opinion or ability, must reach toward the highest standard of ethical conduct.

• More than 14,000 background checks were run; 5,081 of those were new applicants.

• 322 Ethics and Integrity in Ministry (EIM) Workshops were held at parishes and Catholic schools throughout the diocese; more than 12,000 clergy, religious sisters and brothers, seminarians, employees and adult volunteers were trained.

• Approximately 20,000 elementary, middle and high school aged youth were educated using the “Called to Protect” programs.

These facts and figures are strong, but they don’t tell the examples of personal encounter, commitment and relationship that are the foundation of the EIM program. These encounters and these relationships foster transparency and accountability.

• More than 200 trained women and men in our diocese generously give their time as facilitators for the adult EIM Workshop and “Called to Protect for Youth” for middle and high school students.

• An increasing number of individuals who have a personal experience of abuse (themselves or a loved one) met one-on-one with an EIM facilitator to complete a modified training to fulfill

their compliance requirement.

• Roughly 215 employees and (mostly) volunteers, all committed to the protection of children and the vulnerable, faithfully and patiently served as EIM site administrators to help coordinate EIM compliance at their parish or school.

For me as the diocesan associate director of the EIM program, compassionate listening is a part of every day’s work. Whether an individual is relaying a story of recent or past abuse, reporting a particular grievance or just expressing frustration with the database, all of these are received by a listening heart ready to help find a way to address the concern.

When specific resources are needed to help address a concern, connections are made to counseling professionals, spiritual directors, retreat programs, clergy or other supportive services (visit www.austindiocese.org/abuse-prevention-month for additional resource and program information). Some of the resources I use are listed here: • Catholic Charities Counseling Services: www.ccctx.org/counselingservices, (512) 651-6150 in Austin, (979) 822-9340 in Bryan.

• Spiritual Directors: www.austindi-

ocese.org/spiritual-directors.

• Cedarbrake Catholic Retreat Center: www.austindiocese.org/cedarbrake or (254) 780-2436.

There are also the following Austin-area supportive programs and services that help victims of abuse. They are not necessarily sponsored by the diocese, but they are helpful resources.

Stewardship of the Heart is a four-part education series for adults who have experienced boundary violations with clergy. For more information, contact admin@intuitus-group.com. The Maria Goretti Network helps victims of abuse with recovery and forgiveness. For more information, visit www.mgoretti.org.

To make sure sexual abuse is stopped and does not happen again, our diocese has policies, procedures and requirements for all those who serve in ministry today. Simply put those who cannot or do not want to follow the rules cannot serve in ministry.

I pray that as a church we can put the sadness and despair of abuse behind us and move forward shining with the light of Christ.

Emily Hurlimann is the associate director of Ethics and Integrity in Ministry for the Austin Diocese.

She can be reached at (512) 949-2447 or emily-hurlimann@ austindiocese.org.

ON SCRIPTURE

We are the Body of Christ, God’s beautiful mosaic

By Louis A. Gamino | Columnist

Byzantine mosaics combine millions of tiny pieces of tile or glass in outstanding works of art. Only from a distance can we see the grand scheme which unifies everything.

Stepping up close to one of those huge mosaics yields an entirely different experience. Close up, we can appreciate the beauty of each individual tile or piece of glass and really see its color. Some pieces are rather plain and form part of a white background or blue sky or gray building. Other

pieces reflect brilliant color as the critical part of a gold crown, or a person’s eye, or a radiant garment. Each unique piece is needed to complete the whole work of art.

On Tuesday in the Octave of Easter, we hear a passage from Acts of the Apostles (2:36-41) describing their early evangelistic success. Peter’s testimony was so persuasive and convincing that “…three thousand persons were added that day.” By today’s standards, a crowd of 3,000 people may not seem that significant, yet in the narrow streets of Old Jerusalem, without the benefit of a modern

sound system, such a number would have been impressive indeed.

More than 2,000 years have passed since that first Pentecost and the current population of planet Earth is estimated to be at least 7 billion people. Demographers figure more than two billion of those people are Christian. That’s a lot of growth from the 3,000 or so among the flock at the very beginning of Christianity!

But those are just current population estimates. How many people have been born on Earth cumulatively since the beginning of human history? Population scientists arrive

at the answer in different ways but current estimates are around 110 billion. It’s difficult to wrap our minds around that staggering number. Try visualizing Pope Francis’ papal Mass in Brazil where more than a million people stretched along the beaches of Rio de Janeiro. Then maybe we can begin to guess at the magnitude.

If every single person ever born reflected just one dimension of God’s greatness, and most people reflect many positive dimensions, what an unbelievably gigantic and divine Continued on next page

GOOD NEWS

APRIL 2019

17

SOCIAL JUSTICE

May we grow in faith as we serve those in need

By Sara Ramirez | Catholic Charities of Central Texas

As our journey through Lent continues, so do our practices of prayer, fasting and almsgiving to prepare our hearts and minds for the glory of Easter.

Many of us use the season of Lent as a catalyst to “give up” something we enjoy, such as chocolate, sodas, social media or any number of luxuries. Some of us use the time to cleanse ourselves from specific vices or temptations so that we can begin anew with the Resurrection of Christ at Easter. And many of us, in the spirit of almsgiving, not only give our money to charitable causes but also share our time and talent in service to God through acts of charity and works of mercy.

The goal of our prayer, fasting and almsgiving should be a deeper, more

intimate relationship with God. Our sacrifices should leave us changed, not simply back to our old ways once the 40 days are done. Even when we resume our chocolate and sodas, how do we continue to grow nearer to God the rest of the year?

At Catholic Charities of Central Texas, I have the privilege of meeting Christ face to face every day in those we serve. The families that walk through our doors have helped to deepen my faith in so many ways. In the face of a multitude of challenges –– job loss, unexpected pregnancy, family separation, or disaster –– they exude joy, gratitude, strength and resilience. They have taught me that the love of God is greater than any challenge before me and that only in him can I find true happiness and peace. When the Lenten sacrifices are over, our clients are the ones who help me to maintain the joy of the Resurrection.

As Lent draws to an end, I encourage Catholics to consider taking the next step in their journey of faith by encountering Christ through the families we serve at Catholic Charities as a volunteer. Last year at Catholic Charities, 576 volunteers gave of their time and talent to serve moms and dads embarking upon the journey of parenthood, families affected by natural disasters, and immigrants seeking permanent refuge in a new country. They taught classes, answered phones and processed donations. They used their professional and practical expertise to make a difference in the lives of others.

Catholic Charities of Central Texas is eternally grateful for each of the 576 volunteers, and we recognize we cannot do the work entrusted to us alone. It takes our entire faith community.

April is National Volunteer Month.

It provides a special opportunity to

honor those who serve and to engage even more people of goodwill into the service of others. As Catholics celebrating the Paschal Mystery, now is the perfect time to give of ourselves in honor of Christ’s ultimate gift for us. And, because in giving we receive, I promise that you will receive abundant blessings through Christ by serving those in need.

To learn how you can share your time and talent as a volunteer at Catholic Charities of Central Texas, visit www.ccctx.org/volunteer or contact Claire Bordelon, volunteer coordinator, at (512) 651-6159 or claire-bordelon@ccctx.org.

Sara Ramirez is the executive director of Catholic Charities of Central Texas. She can be reached at (512) 651-6100 or sararamirez@ccctx.org.

ON SCRIPTURE Continued from Page 16 mosaic that would be! Whenever we try to translate our understanding of an infinite God into some degree of comprehensibility, we end up limiting God according to our human images and concepts.

In the big picture, those first 3,000 Christians couldn’t constitute even the beginning of a corner of the ultimate mosaic that is the Body of Christ. Besides, why count only Christians? Didn’t God create all persons in the divine image, regardless of gender, race, culture or creed? Surely God can fit all creatures into the mysterious mosaic of his glorious body!

When Peter and the other apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit at Pentecost and miraculously began witnessing in the native languages of all the diverse nationalities gathered in Jerusalem at that time, the extent of God’s mosaic revealed a tiny glimpse of its glory. A popular song by Twila Paris intones the refrain, “How beautiful is the Body of Christ.” We just cannot fathom with our feeble brains how great and beautiful God truly is.

Each of us is a single element of God’s creation — formed in the brittle tile or fragile glass of our human incarnation — destined for a particu-

lar place in God’s stupendous mosaic.

It doesn’t matter if we are large or small, plain or flashy, smooth or textured, curved or straight, thick or thin. Each one of us is numbered and carries the mark of God’s divinity.

We may not be able to see the whole salvation plan of God’s kingdom from our earthly vantage point, but that does not mean it’s not there.

We believe that the full beauty of God’s enormous mosaic of creation will only be revealed in the next life.

Along with the 3,000 new Christians recounted in Acts, we are all members of God’s glorious family.

Our earthly mission is to reflect his glory in who we are and what we do, every day of our lives. When we so honor God’s divinity within us, how beautiful indeed is the Body of Christ!

Louis A. Gamino is a clinical psychologist at Baylor Scott White Health and a member of St. Luke Parish in Temple. Find more about him at www.

LouisGamino.com.

To celebrate its 20th anniversary, Catholic Charities of Central Texas will host its first Catholic Charities Weekend May 4- 5 at all parishes in the diocese.

The weekend is an awareness campaign for parishioners across Central Texas to learn more about Catholic Charities’ mission and how to join the fight against poverty. Catholic Charities will provide each parish with information about the agency’s services as well as ongoing support opportunities.

Catholic Charities of Central Texas works to engage, educate and empower clients to achieve their goals and live up to their fullest potential. Through their six programs, the agency promotes a holistic approach to ending all forms of poverty, including financial, social, educational and spiritual poverty.

These six programs: Counseling Services, Disaster Response, Financial Stability, Gabriel Project Life Center (parenting and pregnancy resources), Immigration Legal Services and St. Michael’s Veteran Services, collectively served 13,823 individuals last year.

For more information about Catholic Charities Weekend, along with ways to get involved in their mission to end poverty in Central Texas, visit www.ccctx.org.

18

GOOD NEWS

CATHOLIC SPIRIT

A DEACON’S WIFE

Married couple lives out the call to love through prayer, action

By Philis Esquivel | Guest Columnist

We are called to live the love of God and we can live this love through prayer and action.

“Prayer in action is love, and love in action is service,” St. Teresa of Calcutta wrote in “Meditations from a Simple Path.”

God had already been working in our lives long before my husband Jessie began his diaconal formation. We just had to get our priorities in order.

Prayer was at the top of our list and as we grew closer as a couple and as a family, we saw opportunities to grow in prayer and to seek God’s will.

I remember one Sunday Mass when a deacon visited our parish to invite men to consider the diaconate. That day while I was quietly meditating after receiving the Eucharist, I heard a voice say, “I want your husband to be a deacon.” I

felt surprised and looked around to see if someone was talking to me.

Suddenly I was filled with peace and my eyes filled with tears of joy because I knew the message must have come from God. With all my heart I said, “Yes, Lord, I offer him up to you.” I did not share that experience with anyone, but I continued to pray and I was open to whatever God had in store for my husband.

I felt very secure in our marriage and I had no doubt the journey of diaconal formation was going to bring us even closer together. I knew Jessie would be transformed and would grow in his commitment to the person

Philis Esquivel and her husband Deacon Jessie Esquivel serve at St. Ferdinand Parish in Blanco and Good Shepherd Mission in Johnson City. She also works in the diocesan Office of Diaconal Ministry as the Wife Director of Formation. (Photo courtesy Esquivels)

and mission of Christ, the ultimate servant.

Jessie has always been very generous with his time and talents. For example he had always made time to talk to parishioners, but after receiving “the call” his time with others became more sacred and much quieter. I noticed others respected that sacred space as well. As Jesus said in Matthew’s Gospel, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”

On one of his mission trips to Mexico, I went with Jessie to visit a woman who was homebound. I stood outside the tiny room, while Jessie entered and embraced her with so much love and compassion. He didn’t know her, but he held her with such care and reverence as if he were holding Jesus. It was a grace-filled moment; my heart melted when I saw the expression of joy on her face. She was grateful for the kind act of charity shown to her that day.

My husband has been ordained 22 years. As a deacon, Jessie is faithful to both sacraments of Holy Orders and Holy Matrimony. As a couple we are united together with God, and I am joyful for the opportunity to minister to others. Jessie and I have

Are you being called to the diaconate?

Men between the ages of 30 and 59 sensing God’s call to the permanent diaconate should discuss this with their pastors and obtain his permission to attend (with their wife, if married) an inquiry session May 5 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Pastoral Center in Austin. For more information, call (512) 949-2459 or visit w w w. a u s t i n d i o c e s e . o r g / diaconalformation. worked with many couples in marriage preparation and with those who are struggling to stay together. The couples leave happier than they arrived, filled with hope for their relationship.

My husband is not afraid to show Christ’s love and does so freely with all his heart. He knows I am supporting him, praying for him and asking our Blessed Mother Mary to pray for him as he serves.

Jessie’s call to the diaconate has allowed us to serve the Lord separately and together as a couple. We continually strive to live the love of God through our prayers and our actions.

SAINTS FOR OUR TIMES

St. Gerald sought reform after cure from long illness

By Mary Lou Gibson | Columnist

Gerald was an 11th century monk of Corbie, France, who had such severe head pains that he found it virtually impossible to pray, work or study. Doctors were unable to do anything for him beyond the latest medical treatments of lancings, leeches and herbal purgatives.

In 1050, the young monk left for Rome where he was ordained by St. Leo IX. Omer Englebert writes in “Lives of the Saints” that Gerald (sometimes also Gerard or Geraud) continued to seek help and a cure for his affliction through pilgrimages to Monte Gargano, Monte Cassino and apostles’ tombs.

Years later, he got his cure and the pains suddenly ended. Gerald attributed this to the intercession of St. Adelard of his native Corbie. Dom

Basil Watkins writes in “The Book of Saints” that Gerald next made a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. When he returned to France, the monks of St. Vincent of Laon asked for him as their abbot.

He spent the next five years trying to bring reforms to the monastery but was not successful. Finally, he left taking two monks with him. They were joined by a recluse and five knights who wanted to live a life of fervor.

This group visited the sanctuary of St. Denis near Paris, the Church of the Holy Cross at Orleans and the tomb of St. Martin at Tours. In Poitiers they met William III, duke of Aquitaine, who offered to help them and directed them to a forest at Grande-Sauve, about six leagues from Bordeaux.

Gerald took possession of some land in 1079 and in 1081 laid the foundation stone for an abbey that would be called Notre Dame de la

Grande-Sauve. The name refers to the “Silva Major,” the great forest that filled the whole region known as the “vineyard between two seas.” He established the monastery under the rule of St. Benedict and dedicated it to the Holy Virgin and the apostles St. Simon and St. Jude. This monastery became the center of a group of reformed monasteries. It had the support of the duke, the pope and several generous benefactors and prospered and grew rapidly.

As abbot, Gerald introduced the practice of having Masses and the Office of the Dead offered for 30 days for the soul of each monk who died at Sauve-Majeure.

Gerald was noted for his preaching and as a confessor. He is also the author of a “Hagiology” (lives of the saints) in which he mentions several holy personages. Englebert writes that when Gerald was ready to die in 1095,

he received the last sacraments, blessed and embraced all his monks, then asked them to retire in order to give place to the angels and saints who, he said, were coming to fetch his soul and take it to heaven.

He was canonized in 1197 by Pope Celestine III and his feast day is April 5.

The Grand–Sauve Abbey suffered damage during the Hundred Years’ War (1337-1453). It was repaired and fortified in the 16th century, but its privileges and influence declined. In 1667 the community became affiliated with the Congregation of St. Maur.

The monastery later suffered damages from earthquakes and fires until the French government acquired the site in 1960. It is now open to the public under the management of the Centre des Monuments Historiques.

Mary Lou Gibson is a freelance writer and a member of St. Austin Parish in Austin.

APRIL 2019

GOOD NEWS

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FAITH THROUGH ART

Pray the rosary with this piece of sacred, sorrowful art

By Norman Farmer | Columnist

Since about 1385 and with but one exception this venerated image of “The Man of Sorrows with Symbols of the Passion” has adorned the altar of the tiny church of St. Romulus at the hamlet of Valiana in the Tuscan Casentino. The exception occurred in the 1960s when the cultural and fine arts authorities of the region removed it to Arezzo for restoration and then decided to keep it in perpetuity in The Museum of Medieval and Modern Art. The uproar from every hamlet, village, town and city in The Casentino was so great, however, that the authorities relented. Today the “tavola” remains at St. Romulus under the watchful eyes of a live-in custodian and digital security.

This story underscores the vast difference between “art” and true images of the sacred. Art is about things –– subjects, that are “objectified” and viewed from a physical or psychological distance, even mere abstractions –– all made visible by a human hand moved by an individual human creative will. “Art” is ultimately spectacle –– in the public square, where the emphasis is chiefly upon surfaces, stylistic “expressions” that manifest the preferences and personalities of artists. The Sacred, though, is a place, a physical and a theologically defined “topos,” a true geographical location at the threshold between “all things visible and invisible” (which we profess in the Creed to be the work of the Creator God).

Hence, the purpose and uses of beautiful, memorable and transcendent altarpieces from the era of the Roman catacombs to their gradual disappearance from altars in modern churches.

People naturally adore something that is intended to adorn, which explains why the 30 or so families in a tiny

rural hamlet could prevail over the officialdom of an entire region and keep the painting you are viewing here.

To this day, no one knows who painted it, or even how it came to be at St. Romulus in the first place! So, since we cannot “own” knowledge about it, we can only ponder the holy realities of which it speaks.

“What is this?,” asks the anonymous author of an ancient though now-famous homily for Holy Saturday. “Today there is a great silence in the world; a great silence, and a stillness over all, because the King slumbers. The earth is fearful, and has grown still, because God, falling asleep in his flesh, has awakened those who have slept from the world’s beginning …”

The setting is mystagogical: a likeness of heavenly, not of historical or even naturalistic realities. The time is Holy Saturday. And the spiritual reality

For up-to-date information from the Diocese of Austin, visit us online On the Internet at www.austindiocese.org On Facebook search “Diocese of Austin” On Twitter, go to @AustinDiocese

is that the Son of Man in his flesh sleeps in a tomb, while the Beloved Son of God and Second Person of the Trinity descends in the Spirit to the depths of death’s oblivion to slay Death itself and to awaken the sleepers. At this place, this “topos” –– and also in the Spirit, we who are gazing in wonder upon this visible thought of the greatest mystery of all, are now dwelling in it, participating in it through prayer and the contemplation of this moment in salvation history when God prepared to announce the death of death itself through his glorious Resurrection. We are instructed in the mystery of this encounter by the legend the painter so elegantly inscribed at the base of the image: “Those who are properly confessed and who pray the stations of the Armi Christi will, by proclamation of Pope Innocent IV, receive three years’ indulgence.”

By her very presence in this once-and-forever “place,” itself within the immeasurable eternity of salvation history, the Virgin Mother entreats us to embrace with the healing graces of her rosary every evil weapon that swarms about the cross in a riot of colors and disembodied forms.

Cloaked in the black habit of the Servites (the Order of the Servants of Mary of which she is Patroness), she, the Adolorata, and the Blessed Virgin Mary of Sorrows, is our model and our

“The Man of Sorrows with Symbols of the Passion” hangs in a small church in Italy. (Image in public domain)

guide. Attending to and comforting her Son who is “asleep in the flesh,” no less than when she followed him on the “Via Dolorosa” and stood beneath him at the cross, she steadies him now in the condition of death, even by reaching across the hard edge of the tomb, and holding him erect, since “not a bone of [his body] will be broken” (Jn 19:36).

A rosary, then: “Hail Mary, full of grace ... , etc” that names and contemplates through prayer each of those disembodied heads and hands, the tools and taunts through which Christ’s enemies sought –– and continue to use now against us –– to diminish, disfigure, disgrace and destroy him. For as the shrouded banner of the Resurrection suspended from the right arm of the cross proclaims amidst the swarm that flutters about the cross, these will become in the new morning’s light the trophies that signify Christ’s victory –– and subsequently our own –– over sin and death.

Norman Farmer, Ph.D, is professor emeritus of English and Humanities at the University of Texas. He writes about the relation of sacred art to Catholic prayer life. He is a parishioner of St. Mary Cathedral in Austin.

GOOD NEWS

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CATHOLIC SPIRIT

SPECIAL COLLECTION

World Mission Sunday, Propagation of Faith The special collection for the Propagation of Faith was taken up in parishes Oct. 20-21. The collection helps missionary efforts in Asia and Africa, the Pacific Islands, and parts of Latin America and Europe. Totals are listed below by deanery. To report an error, contact the diocesan Finance Office at (512) 949-2423.

PARISH TOTALS

PARISH TOTALS

PARISH TOTALS

PARISH TOTALS

AUSTIN CENTRAL DEANERY Austin, Cristo Rey Austin, Holy Cross Austin, Sacred Heart Austin, Our Lady of Guadalupe Austin, St. Austin Austin, St. Ignatius Austin, Santa Barbara Austin, St. Julia Austin, St. Mary Cathedral Austin, San José Austin Central Deanery Totals AUSTIN NORTH DEANERY Austin, Holy Vietnamese Martyrs Austin, St. Albert the Great Austin, St. Louis Austin, St. Theresa Austin, St. Thomas More Austin, St. Vincent de Paul Cedar Park, St. Margaret Mary Lago Vista, Our Lady of the Lake Austin North Deanery Totals AUSTIN SOUTH DEANERY Austin, Dolores Austin, St. Andrew Kim Austin, St. Catherine of Siena Austin, St. John Neumann Austin, St. Paul Austin, St. Peter the Apostle Austin, San Francisco Javier Lakeway, Emmaus Stony Point, San Juan Diego Austin South Deanery Totals BASTROP/LOCKHART DEANERY Bastrop, Ascension

Elgin, Sacred Heart $1,129.44 Lockhart, St. Mary of the Visitation $1,859.34 Luling, St. John $649.13 Martindale, Immaculate Heart $471.00 Rockne, Sacred Heart $987.00 Smithville, St. Paul $1,091.00 String Prairie, Assumption $1,053.00 Uhland, St.Michael $461.37 Bastrop/Lockhart Deanery Totals $10,669.73 BRENHAM/LA GRANGE DEANERY Brenham, St. Mary $1,405.02 Chappell Hill, St. Stanislaus $355.35 Dime Box, St. Joseph $468.00 Ellinger/Hostyn Hill, St. Mary $466.00 Fayetteville, St. John $1,153.35 Giddings, St. Margaret $1,136.75 La Grange, Sacred Heart $1,617.00 Lexington, Holy Family $250.00 Old Washington on the Brazos, St. Mary $49.00 Pin Oak, St. Mary $194.00 Rockdale, St. Joseph $386.18 Somerville, St. Ann $1,186.05 Brenham/La Grange Deanery Totals $8,666.70 BRYAN/COLLEGE STATION DEANERY Bremond, St. Mary $547.00 Bryan, St. Anthony $1,387.70 Bryan, St. Joseph $1,044.00 Bryan, Santa Teresa $2,164.00 Caldwell, St. Mary $1,266.70 College Station, St. Mary $3,646.43 College Station, St. Thomas Aquinas $2,965.43 Franklin, St. Francis of Assisi $519.13 Frenstat, Holy Rosary $823.00 Hearne, St. Mary $673.03 Bryan/College Station Deanery Totals $15,036.42

GEORGETOWN/ROUND ROCK DEANERY Andice, Santa Rosa $3,653.52 Corn Hill, Holy Trinity $1,304.00 Georgetown, St. Helen $5,417.47 Granger, Sts. Cyril and Methodius $1,098.00 Hutto, St. Patrick $790.03 Manor, St. Joseph $560.80 Pflugerville, St. Elizabeth $2,995.17 Round Rock, St. John Vianney $2,621.00 Round Rock, St. William $8,069.00 Taylor, Our Lady of Guadalupe $451.38 Taylor, St. Mary of the Assumption $1,847.67 Georgetown/Round Rock Totals $28,808.04 KILLEEN/TEMPLE DEANERY Belton, Christ the King $2,367.09 Burlington, St. Michael $97.00 Cameron, St. Monica $332.00 Copperas Cove, Holy Family $4,001.78 Harker Heights, St. Paul Chong Hasang $3,069.00 Killeen, St. Joseph $2,873.54 Marak, Sts. Cyril and Methodius $422.00 Rogers, St. Matthew $242.88 Rosebud, St. Ann $324.00 Salado, St. Stephen $1,044.00 Temple, Our Lady of Guadalupe $1,051.59 Temple, St. Luke $1,863.00 Temple, St. Mary $1,837.00 Westphalia, Visitation $566.00 Killeen/Temple Deanery Totals $20,090.88 LAMPASAS/MARBLE FALLS DEANERY Bertram, Holy Cross $106.37 Burnet, Our Mother of Sorrows $565.00 Goldthwaite, St. Peter $280.00 Horseshoe Bay, St. Paul the Apostle $1,355.00 Kingsland, St. Charles Borromeo $560.00 Lampasas, St. Mary $602.52

Llano, Holy Trinity $435.81 Lometa, Good Shepherd $206.00 Marble Falls, St. John $133.00 Mason, St. Joseph $333.74 San Saba, St. Mary $343.00 Sunrise Beach, Our Lady of the Lake $112.00 Lampasas/Marble Falls Deanery Totals $5,032.44 SAN MARCOS DEANERY Blanco, St. Ferdinand $561.33 Buda, Santa Cruz $1,961.00 Dripping Springs, St. Martin de Porres $2,045.37 Johnson City, Good Shepherd $315.60 Kyle, St. Anthony Marie de Claret $2,085.72 San Marcos,Our Lady of Wisdom $444.00 San Marcos, St. John $1,916.00 Wimberley, St. Mary $1,648.78 San Marcos Deanery Totals $10,977.80 WACO DEANERY China Spring, St. Phillip $318.00 Gatesville, Our Lady of Lourdes $655.59 Hamilton, St. Thomas $247.00 Lott, Sacred Heart $182.00 McGregor, St. Eugene $255.00 Marlin, St. Joseph $417.19 Waco, Sacred Heart $1,240.00 Waco, St. Francis on the Brazos $885.00 Waco (Hewitt), St. Jerome $1,624.30 Waco, St. John the Baptist $131.00 Waco (Bellmead), St. Joseph $748.95 Waco, St. Louis $4,049.00 Waco, St. Mary of the Assumption $1,194.51 Waco, St. Peter Catholic Center $391.00 West, Church of the Assumption $719.00 Waco Deanery Totals $13,057.54

Grand Totals $183,323.51

$2,174.45 $338.00 $3,378.00 $1,248.17 $4,156.21 $4,214.36 $2,706.47 $492.09 $1,966.00 $967.00 $21,640.75 $6,677.00 $2,860.00 $1,760.77 $2,824.03 $7,400.08 $2,219.50 $3,880.19 $1,431.00 $29,052.57 $1,203.00 $228.00 $6,057.04 $4,732.19 $2,733.81 $1,467.00 $1,345.00 $2,303.10 $221.50 $20,290.64 $2,968.45

Thank you!

8th Annual Luncheon in the Brazos Valley

LEADERSHIP GIFTS Beverly and Josiah Barrow

Patricia and Adrien Drouilhet III Friend of Catholic Charities (7) Terri and Ron Gay Ted Hajovsky

Patty and Ray Hannigan Catalena Hatters

Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Frenstat Dorothy and Wayne Jordan

Thanks to the generous supporters of the Catholic Charities 8th Annual Creating Hope in the Brazos Valley Luncheon!

Dr. Ann M. Reed

Arthur Bajet

St. Anthony Catholic

Dr. Mark B. Riley

Mike Bonin

St. Francis of Assisi

CHI St. Joseph Health

St. Mary’s Catholic Center,

Terri and Ron Gay

Traditions Wealth Advisors

Sheran Riley

Anne and Jim Sanders

St. Anthony Catholic Church, Bryan St. Mary’s Catholic Center, College Station

St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Caldwell

St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, College Station

Russ Kellen, Kellen Commercial

The Bank and Trust

Knights of Columbus Council #1834

Women’s Guild of St. Joseph Catholic

Interiors, Inc.

Knights of Columbus Assembly #2587 Knights of Columbus Council #3205

Traditions Wealth Advisors Church, Bryan

Shirley and Jimmy E. Mudd

TABLE CAPTAINS

Pilger’s Tire & Auto Center

Carrie Archer, Bryan-College Station

Meredith and Jim Olson Red-C Catholic Radio

Angelita Garcia Alonzo

Chamber of Commerce

Janice and Deacon Frank Ashley

Beverly and Josiah Barrow Tom Brockenbush Judy Edwards

Mike Holmgreen,

The Bank and Trust

Molly Kulpa

Anne and Kim Latour

Church, Bryan

Catholic Church, Franklin College Station

Brandi Velasco

Women’s Guild of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Bryan

Meredith Olson

SPECIAL THANKS Blue Baker

Dr. Ann M. Reed

H-E-B

Deacon Bill Scarmardo

St. Thomas Aquinas

Esperanza Mras

Red-C Catholic Radio

CCCTX Volunteers

Pearl Marie Robertson

St. Joseph Catholic High School

Dr. Phebe Simmons

Catholic Church

www.ccctx.org

APRIL 2019

BU LLETIN BOARD

Calendar of events

Mark your calendars for these events that are coming up across the Diocese of Austin. Send entries for this section to catholic-spirit@austindiocese.org.

April 4: The Great Canon of St. Andrew of Crete will be sung at Byzantine Rite penitential service from 7 to 9 p.m. at Holy Cross Parish in Austin.

April 5: Fried Fish Dinners on Fridays during Lent, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at St. Mary Parish in Caldwell. Plates are $10 each, drive-through plates only.

April 6: Mass for Life and Prayer Vigil beginning at 8 a.m. at San José Parish in Austin.

April 6: Father Ray Pothireddy will celebrate the 25th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood with Mass at 5 p.m. at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Austin. Everyone is invited.

April 7: Fatima Trinitarian 20 Decade Rosary is prayed every Sunday at 4 p.m. at St. Anthony Parish in Kyle (except on national holidays).

April 9: An adult discernment dinner for men will be held from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the Borromeo House in Austin. Details: www.godiscalling.me.

April 11: A high school discernment dinner will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Temple. This dinner is for young men in high school to learn about discernment and the priesthood.

Details: www.godiscalling.me.

April 13: St. Mary’s Academy of Austin Alumnae are invited to attend the annual All-Years Spring Reunion Luncheon from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Maggiano’s Little Italy in the Domain Shopping Center in Austin.

Register: TNEJS@aol.com or (512) 837-3658.

April 13: Pastoral leaders are invited “Fully Engaged” from 9 a.m. to noon at the Pastoral Center in Austin. This training (in Spanish) is a Catholic catechetical premarital inventory designed to help engaged couples solidify the foundation upon which they, together with Christ, will build their sacrament of marriage. Register: phi-le@austindiocese.org.

April 16: The diocesan Chrism Mass will be celebrated April 16 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Austin.

April 16: Adoration for young professionals at 7 p.m. at the Marian Shrine of Our Lady of Schoenstatt in Austin.

Details: www.facebook.com/SchoenstattAustin.

April 18-22: Diocesan offices will close beginning at noon on Holy Thursday through Easter Monday.

April 20: Volunteer training and orientation for the Texas Department

of Criminal Justice will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Pastoral Center in Austin. Those interested in becoming an approved volunteer within TDCJ or who need to retrain as an existing volunteer are invited.

Details: john-guilluly@austindiocese. org.

April 24: A discernment dinner for women will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Austin. Details: www.godiscalling.me.

April 25: A special prayer service for couples struggling with infertility starts at 7 p.m. at St. Mary Cathedral in Austin. Sarah’s Hope & Abraham’s Promise of the Rabboni Institute for Learning & Healing invite all to attend and join with these couples in prayer. A reception will be held immediately following. Details: shap@teachmehealme.com or (512) 736-7334.

April 27: Godstock, a Catholic youth music festival, will be held at Eagle’s Wings Retreat Center in Burnet.

Details: www.ewrc.org.

April 27: A Divine Mercy Celebration will be held beginning with confession at 3 p.m., then a bilingual Mass at 5 p.m. and dinner at 6 p.m. at the Our Lady of Guadalupe Divine Mercy Center in Dale. Details: Lily & Jaime Aragon (512)436-5866.

April 28: Divine Mercy Sunday Adoration from 2 to 7 p.m. at the Marian Shrine of Our Lady of Schoenstatt.

Information: www.schoenstatt.us.

April 30: The 10th annual Evening for the Ladies - Denim and Diamonds at 6 p.m. at the St. William Parish Evangelization Center in Round Rock. The evening will open with social time, appetizers, followed by a delicious dinner, and desserts. Tickets: (512) 810-8248 or efl.ccstx@gmail.com.

May 1: The Assembly of Catholic Professionals will meet from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hyatt in Austin.

Details: www.austindiocese.org/acp.

May 4: A Mass in Spanish in honor of the beatification of Mother Conchita Cabrera will be celebrated at 10 a.m. at San José Parish in Austin.

May 5: An inquiry session for those who are discerning the call to be a permanent deacon will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. the diocesan Pastoral Center. Details: (512) 949-2459.

May 18: Bishop Joe Vásquez will ordain men to the transitional diaconate May 18 at 10:30 a.m. at St. William Parish in Round Rock.

21

Opportunities to reflect, learn Listed below are retreats and days of reflection in the month ahead.

April 6: Annulment Pathway to Healing from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Emmaus Parish in Lakeway. The purpose of this seminar is to help participants begin a journey in awareness of the healing process of nullity.

Details: (512) 949-2478.

April 6: Struggling to Understand Suicide Retreat will be held from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Cedarbrake Retreat Center in Belton. Cost is $40 and includes lunch. Details: (254) 780-2436.

April 6: A day of reflection for Diverse Abilities will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The focus of the day is how the church continues to affirm the dignity of every human being, and to grow in knowledge and understanding of the gifts and needs of her members who live with disabilities. Details: www.austindiocese.org/ disabilities-retreat.

April 12-14: Retrouvaille (pronounced retro-vi) helps couples through difficult times in their marriages.

For confidential information about Retrouvaille or how to register for the program beginning with a weekend on April 12-14, call 1-800-470-2230 or visit www.helpourmarriage.com.

April 13: Couples Time Out from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Marian Shrine of Our Lady of Schoenstatt in Austin. Married couples are invited to grow spiritually together during this morning of prayer and reflection.

This month’s theme is “Technology & Social Media in our Marriage.”

Babysitting is available. Register: cto@schoenstatt.us.

April 13: Teen Girls Overnight Retreat

from 6 p.m. to April 14 at 10 a.m. at the Marian Shrine of Our Lady of Schoenstatt. Teenaged girls 14+ are invited.

Register: rgardner@schoenstatt.us.

April 18-19: A silent retreat will begin on Thursday at 4 p.m. with a conference, meal and then Mass of the Lord’s Supper at 7 p.m. at Cedarbrake Retreat Center in Belton. Friday includes a conference, Stations of the Cross and conclude with the Good Friday liturgy at 3 p.m. The cost for the overnight retreat is $120 for a private room, $85 per person for a shared room and $55 for commuter.

Details: (254) 780-2436.

April 27: Girls Day Camp with Mary from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Marian Shrine of Our Lady of Schoenstatt in Austin. Girls ages 8-14 are invited to spend the day growing closer to Jesus and Mary with crafts, prayer and fun. Register at rgardner@ schoenstatt.us.

April 27: The Spirituality of Hospice care will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Cedarbrake Retreat Center in Belton. Debbie George, a hospice chaplain, will present the spiritual, clinical and social aspects of hospice care. The cost is $40 and includes lunch. Details: (254) 7802436.

May 11: Go and Make Disciples, a three-part series focused on forming men and women as missionary disciples, will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Through these dynamic and engaging sessions, participants become better equipped for success in their evangelization efforts. Details: (512) 949-2422.

Festivals, galas and golf April 28: St. Patrick Parish in Hutto will host its Spring Festival from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the parish in grounds.

Activities will include a bounce house, dunking booth, live auction, live music, games and a variety of foods.

May 4: St. Mary Parish in Temple will host its annual Spring Bazaar on the parish grounds from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Local artists and small businesses will have their items for sale. There will be hourly door prizes, food trucks and more. Details: baylorkidsfirst@ gmail.com or (254) 773-4541.

May 4: St. William Parish in Round Rock will host its “Spring Fiesta” from noon to 9 p.m. on the parish grounds.

Activities include a garage sale, a variety of foods, children’s games, train rides and live music. Details: www. st-william.org.

May 5: Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish

in Taylor will host its fourth annual REd Spring Festival from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Activities will include food, games, mariachis, dancing and more.

May 10: Annunciation Maternity Home in Georgetown will host its 17th annual Benefit Gala May 10 at the Sheraton Hotel in Georgetown.

Bishop Joe Vásquez will be the keynote speaker. Details: www.thematernityhome.org.

May 10: Cougar Classic Golf Tournament benefiting St. Louis Catholic School in Austin. 1:30 p.m. start.

Details: www.slcsaustin.org.

May 19: St. Margaret Mary Parish in Cedar Park will host its annual SpringFest from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on the parish grounds. Activities will include a variety of food booths, a petting zoo, children’s games and much more. Details: www. stmargaretmary.com.

BU LLETIN BOARD

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CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Official schedule The official schedule for Bishop Joe Vásquez is listed below. Dates and times are subject to change.

Confirmation, St. Eugene Parish (joined by Our Lady of San Juan Mission, Moody), McGregor, 3 p.m.

April 9: Deans’ Meeting, Pastoral Center, 10 a.m.

April 10: Mass and Lunch with Retired Priests Vocations Meeting, Pastoral Center, 2 p.m.

April 12: Confirmation, Sacred Heart Parish, Waco, 5 p.m.

April 13: Confirmation, St. Helen Parish, Georgetown, 10 a.m.

April 14: Mass, St. Mary Cathedral, Austin, noon April 16: Chrism Mass, St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Austin, 10:30 a.m.

April 18: Mass of the Lord’s Supper, St. Mary Cathedral, Austin, 7 p.m.

Bishop Joe S. Vásquez

April 5: Monthly Budget Meeting, Pastoral Center, 8:30 a.m.

Confirmation, Sacred Heart Parish, Elgin, 7 p.m.

April 6: Confirmation, St. Margaret Mary Parish, Cedar Park, 10 a.m.

April 7: Confirmation, Church of the Visitation Parish, Westphalia, 9 a.m.

Confirmation, St. Peter Catholic Center, Waco, 11:30 a.m.

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EIM WORKSHOP

All clergy, religious, seminarians, employees and adult volunteers serving in a ministry requiring EIM compliance must submit an EIM Application for Ministry (onetime only) and attend an EIM Workshop at least once every three years. Go to www. eappsdb.com/austin to submit a new application or login to your existing account to find the list of workshops and to signup (use “Forgot Password” if you don’t recall ID/ password). Contact your parish EIM site administrator (insert name) if a paper EIM application or other assistance with EIM compliance matters is needed.

Workshop Notes: 1) attendees must pre-register at least 24 hours before workshop start time – walk-ins are no longer admitted, 2) arrive early - late arrivals are not admitted and 3) do not bring children to the EIM workshop. If you are a victim of sexual abuse and have concerns regarding your attendance at a workshop, contact Emily Hurlimann at (512) 949-2447 to discuss an alternative workshop arrangement.

HAVE YOU, OR HAS SOMEONE YOU KNOW, EXPERIENCED ABUSE? Bishop Joe S. Vásquez and the Diocese of Austin are committed to providing compassionate care to persons who have experienced abuse, particularly if committed by clergy or a church representative. If you have or if someone you know has experienced such abuse, contact the diocesan Coordinator of Victim Assistance and Pastoral Support at ileana-hinojosa@austindioce.org or (512) 949-2400.

REPORT ABUSE

Report abuse of a minor, elderly adult or an adult with a disability to local law enforcement or to the Texas Abuse Hotline at www.txabusehotline.org or (800) 2525400 and to the diocese at www.austindiocese.org/report-abuse or (512) 949-2447.

REPORT UNETHICAL BEHAVIOR

Report unethical behavior by a person serving in ministry to the diocese at www. austindiocese.org/other-concerns or (512) 949-2447.

April 19: Celebration of the Lord’s Passion, St. Mary Cathedral, Austin, 2 p.m.

April 20: Easter Vigil Mass, St. Mary Cathedral, Austin, 8:45 p.m.

April 21: Mass, St. Mary Cathedral, Austin, 9:30 a.m.

April 25: Pastoral Plan Core Team, Pastoral Center, 1 p.m.

April 26: Confirmation, St. Mary Catholic Center, College Station, 5:30 p.m.

April 27: Adult Confirmation, St. Anthony Parish, Kyle, 10:30 a.m.

April 28: Mass at “Godstock,” Eagle’s Wings Retreat Center, Burnet, 10 a.m.

April 29: Austin Diocesan Council of Catholic Women Convention Mass and Banquet, Hilton Hotel, Waco, 4:30 p.m.

May 1: Association of Catholic Professionals Luncheon, Hyatt Regency, 11:30 a.m.

Confirmations, St. John the Evangelist Parish, San Marcos, 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.

May 2: Secretariat Directors, Pastoral Center, 9 a.m.

May 3: Monthly Budget Meeting, Pastoral Center, 8:30 a.m.

Confirmation, St. Louis Parish, Waco, 6 p.m.

May 4: Confirmation, St. Mary, Church of the Assumption Parish, West, 10 a.m.

May 5: Confirmation, Our Mother of Sorrows Parish, Burnet, 9 a.m.

Confirmation, Ascension Parish, Bastrop, 3 p.m.

May 7: Priestly Life and Formation Committee, Pastoral Center, 10 a.m.

May 10: Annunciation Maternity Home Banquet, Sheraton Hotel, Georgetown, 6:30 p.m.

May 11: Confirmations, St. William Parish, Round Rock, 10 a.m. & 1 p.m.

May 12: Confirmation, St. Mary Parish, Mexia, 12 p.m.

Confirmation, St. Joseph Parish, Killeen, 5 p.m.

Burse

The Diocesan Council of Catholic Women has completed a burse for the Clerical Endowment Fund (CEF) in honor of the Killeen/Temple Deanery Council of the DCCW and Father Greg Romanski.

The totals for the burse as of Feb. 28, are listed below by council.

Austin $810.00 Bastrop/Lockhart $332.00 Brenham/La Grange $514.00 Bryan/College Station $563.00 Georgetown/Round Rock $363.00 Killeen/Temple $560.00 Lampasas/Marble Falls $52.00 Waco $3,633.00 Diocesan Board $35.00 Previous Balance $7,841.47 Total $14,703.47 The Clerical Endowment Fund provides low-cost loans to parishes. Interest from the loans is used to educate diocesan seminarians. For information, contact Judy Edwards at (979) 846-0617.

Msgr. Victor Goertz, one of the Austin Diocese’s beloved, retired priests, recently autographed and wrote a personal message in another batch of 100 of his “Meandering through the Mystery” books.

Get your signed copy today by sending in the coupon below.

Order your copy today! Mail the following information as well as a check for $10 (made payable to Diocese of Austin) to Communications Office, 6225 Hwy. 290 East, Austin, TX 78723. Please allow 6 weeks for delivery.

Name (first and last):_____________________________________ Address:_______________________________________________ City: ________________________State_______ ZIP_____________

ESPAÑOL

APRIL 2019

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ENTREVISTA AL SEÑOR OBISPO

Que estas últimas semanas de Cuaresma traigan la conversión a nuestros corazones El Obispo José S. Vásquez es el quinto obispo de la Diócesis de Austin, que es el hogar de más de 530,000 Católicos.

Editora: Obispo, la temporada litúrgica de la Cuaresma se encuentra en pleno desarrollo ¿Podemos hacer que estas últimas semanas de Cuaresma sean simples pero llenas de significado y propósito?

Obispo Vásquez: Como Católicos, comenzamos la temporada de Cuaresma con intenciones genuinas y verdaderas. Sin embargo, somos humanos y nuestras buenas intenciones con frecuencia se desvían ya que tratamos a nuestros sacrificios de Cuaresma como resoluciones de Año Nuevo. Ha sido probado científicamente que 80 por ciento de las resoluciones de Año Nuevo han fallado para el día primero de febrero ¡No hagamos lo mismo!

Primero, debemos de pensar seriamente sobre aquello en lo que Dios quiere que crezcamos espiritualmente.

Podemos preguntarnos: ¿Dónde es que Dios me está pidiendo que enfoque mi atención? ¿Tal vez necesito pasar más tiempo con mi familia? ¿Tal vez estoy pasando mucho tiempo en los medios sociales? ¿Tal vez necesito orar más seguido o leer la sagrada Escritura?

Debemos recordar voltear hacia Dios para ver en dónde quiere que crezcamos espiritualmente. Dios nos invita a cada uno de nosotros a un cambio verdadero y a una conversión de corazón durante la Cuaresma. Este es el tiempo en el que decimos, “Dios, he buscando toda mi vida, y estas El Obispo José Vásquez dio la bienvenida a los catecúmenos durante las ceremonias del Rito de Elección que se llevaron a cabo el 9 y 10 de marzo en St. Thomas Aquinas Parish en College Station y en St. John Vianney Parish en Round Rock. Este año en la Diócesis de Austin más de 400 hombres y mujeres serán bienvenidos en la iglesia durante la Vigilia Pascual.

(Foto por Rilla Chacka)

son las áreas en donde sé que estoy fallando claramente. Necesito tu ayuda. Solo con tu gracia puedo superar los malos hábitos, las malas actitudes, las acciones egoístas, etc.”.

La iglesia nos da tres maneras para ayudarnos a ver más allá de nosotros mismos: oramos, ayunamos y damos el diezmo. La oración pone a Dios primero, y nos ayuda a darnos cuenta de que no somos el centro de la vida, sino que Dios es el centro. Dar el diezmo o limosna a los pobres nos ayuda a pensar sobre nuestros hermanos y hermanas necesitados; por lo tanto, cambia nuestro enfoque hacia aquellos que nos rodean y nos ayuda a compartir nuestros dones con otros. El ayuno también nos ayuda soltar la comida o bebida o los malos hábitos que con frecuencia nos controlan. Al dejar ir ciertas cosas, podemos poner atención en las personas y actuar de manera que pongamos nuestra dependencia en Dios ¡Este es un cambio radical para muchos de nosotros por que una verdadera conversión del corazón es un cambio radical! Mientras continuamos a través de la Cuaresma, debemos continuar pidiendo a Dios que nos convierta en aquello que quiere que seamos, que es ser más como su hijo, Jesucristo.

Editora: Para este momento, muchos de nosotros hemos ya perdido el camino, por llamarlo de algún modo ¿Cómo seguimos adelante?

Obispo Vásquez: Me gusta mucho San Juan Crisóstomo quien en una de sus homilías del Domingo de Ramos habló a la gente y les dijo que incluso

si no hubieran mantenido las promesas con las que comenzaron la Cuaresma, no se desanimaran. Creo que todos nos podemos desanimar. A veces lo hacemos muy bien por la primera y segunda semana y luego caemos miserablemente y volvemos a nuestros antiguos días.

No necesitamos reprocharnos a nosotros mismos. Lo que necesitamos hacer es confiar en que Dios nos muestre cómo depender de Él y volver a comprometernos con Él. La Cuaresma se trata de la gracia. En verdad creo que Dios nos da la gracia que necesitamos para hacer cambios permanentes en nuestras vidas, pero debemos responder a esa gracia. Por ejemplo, si estoy pidiendo paciencia, Dios va a ponerme en situaciones en las que tengo que enfrentar mi propia impaciencia. Cuando somos sinceros, Dios también nos dará la habilidad y la gracia de ser más pacientes o de hacer cambios duraderos en nuestras vidas.

Una cosa que me da esperanza y me anima es que soy parte de una comunidad más grande- la iglesia. Somos una comunidad de creyentes que juntos luchan por crecer en santidad durante esta temporada de Cuaresma. Sin importar cuales son nuestras prácticas penitenciales, estamos en esto juntos, lo que nos da el ánimo para seguir buscando la conversión de nuestros corazones.

Una señal de solidaridad es la práctica tradicional de la Cuaresma de rezar el Viacrucis. Nos reunimos para seguir a Cristo y nos abrazamos a su cruz en nuestras vidas también. Al profundizar en nuestra relación con la comunidad

de la iglesia, la comunidad, el Cuerpo de Cristo, se fortalece.

Otro ejemplo de solidaridad esta Cuaresma es encontrar un compañero de oración o unirse a un grupo de gente para rezar el rosario o para estudiar la Escritura regularmente. O podemos invitar a un amigo a asistir a la Misa diaria durante la Cuaresma.

Otra manera puede ser visitar a los que no pueden salir de casa con un amigo o un familiar. Existen muchas maneras en las que podemos apoyarnos unos a otros durante esta temporada de Cuaresma.

Editora: Mientras nos acercamos a la Semana Santa ¿Cómo podemos prepararnos a nosotros mismos y a nuestras familias para la pasión, muerte y resurrección de Cristo?

Obispo Vásquez: La iglesia ve a la Semana Santa como la semana más santa del año y aún así la iglesia nunca a hecho al Triduo días de obligación. La iglesia no nos obliga a venir, pero todos estamos invitados a participar y celebrar la Semana Santa por que estos son los misterios que nos salvan. Los misterios de la pasión de Jesús, su muerte y resurrección traen salvación a todos.

Mientras entramos a esta semana, la más santa, es bueno para nosotros mirar de nuevo a las promesas que hicimos durante la Cuaresma ¿Podemos hacer algo más para mostrar nuestro amor por Cristo quien se sacrificó voluntariamente por amor a su padre y a la humanidad? ¿Podemos orar más minutos cada día? ¿Podemos pasar más tiempo con quienes amamos? ¿Qué podemos hacer para mostrar a Dios que estamos agradecidos por haber enviado a su Hijo a sufrir y morir por nosotros? ¿Qué podemos hacer para unir nuestros corazones con Cristo?

Editora: ¿Cuál es su oración por todos nosotros mientras hacemos la cuenta regresiva para la Pascua?

Obispo Vásquez: Oro por que durante estas últimas semanas de Cuaresma experimentemos una verdadera conversión de corazón. También por que experimentemos la misericordia de Dios para que podamos vivir en verdadera libertad, la que nos permite a todos estar completamente vivos.

Finalmente, oro por que experimentemos el gran gozo de la Resurrección el Domingo de Pascua ya que es un pequeño vistazo a la vida que Dios nos ofrece con Él por toda la eternidad.

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LA ESPOSA DE UN DIÁCONO

Viviendo el llamado al amor a través de la oración, la acción Por Philis Esquivel | Columnista Invitada

Estamos llamados a vivir el amor de Dios y podemos vivir este amor a través de la oración y la acción.

“La oración en acción es amor, y el amor en acción es servicio,” escribió Santa Teresa de Calcuta en “Meditaciones para un Camino Simple”.

Dios había ya estado trabajando en nuestras vidas mucho antes de que mi esposo Jessie comenzara su formación diaconal. Sólo teníamos que poner nuestras prioridades en orden.

La oración estaba al tope de la lista y mientras que nos acercábamos como pareja y como familia, vimos las oportunidades de crecer en oración y de buscar la voluntad de Dios.

Recuerdo la Misa de un domingo cuando un diácono visitó nuestra parroquia para invitar a hombres a considerar el diaconado. Ese día, mientras yo estaba

meditando calladamente después de recibir la Eucaristía, escuché una voz que decía, “quiero que tu esposo sea un diácono.” Me sentí sorprendida y miré alrededor a ver si alguien me estaba hablando.

De pronto, estaba llena de paz y mis ojos llenos de lágrimas de gozo por que supe que el mensaje debe de haber venido de Dios. Con todo mi corazón dije, “Sí, Señor, te lo ofrezco a él”. No compartí mi experiencia con nadie, pero continué orando y estaba abierta a lo que Dios tuviera reservado para mi esposo.

Me sentía muy segura en nuestro matrimonio y no tenía duda de que el viaje de formación diaconal iba a acercarnos aún más. Supe que Jessie sería

Philis Esquivel trabaja en la Oficina diocesana de Ministerio Diaconal como la Esposa Directora de Formación. Ella y su esposo, el Diácono Jessie Esquivel sirven en St. Ferdinand Parish en Blanco y en Good Shepherd en Johnson City.

transformado y crecería en su compromiso con la persona y la misión de Cristo, el siervo definitivo.

Jessie siempre ha sido muy generoso con su tiempo y talentos. Por ejemplo, siempre había hecho tiempo para hablar con parroquianos, pero después de recibir “el llamado” su tiempo con otros se volvió más sagrado y más callado. Noté que otros respetaban el espacio sagrado también. Como Jesús dijo en el Evangelio de Mateo, “Por que donde dos o tres se reúnen en mi nombre, ahí estoy yo con ellos”.

En uno de sus viajes misioneros a México fui con Jessie a visitar a una mujer que no podía salir de casa. Me paré fuera del pequeño cuarto, mientras Jessie entraba y la abrazaba con mucho amor y compasión. Él no la conocía, pero la abrazó con tal cuidado y reverencia, como si estuviera abrazando a Jesús. Fue un momento lleno de gracia; mi corazón se derritió cuando vi la expresión de gozo de la mujer en su rostro. Estaba agradecida por el amable acto de caridad que había recibido ese día.

Mi esposo ha estado ordenado por 22 años. Como un diácono, Jessie es fiel a ambos, sacramentos, el de las Órdenes Sagradas y el del Santo Matrimonio. Como una pareja, estamos unidos con Dios, y me llena de gozo

la oportunidad de servir en ministerio a otros. Jessie y yo hemos trabajado con muchas parejas en la preparación matrimonial y con aquellos que están luchando para permanecer juntos.

Las parejas se van más contentas que cuando llegaron, llenas de esperanza por su relación, Mi esposo no tiene miedo de mostrar el amor de Cristo y lo hace tan libremente con su corazón. Él sabe que lo apoyo, orando por él y pidiendo a nuestra Bendita Madre María que ore por él mientras sirve.

El llamado de Jessie al diaconado nos ha permitido servir al Señor de manera separada y como una pareja.

Continuamente luchamos por vivir el amor de Dios a través de nuestras oraciones y nuestros actos.

¿Está siendo llamado al diaconado?

Hombres de edades entre 30 y 59 sintiendo el llamado de Dios al diaconado permanente deben discutirlo con sus pastores y obtener su permiso para asistir (con su esposa, si son casados) a una sesión informative el 5 de mayo de 2 a 5 p.m. en el Centro Pastoral en Austin. Para mayor información, llame al (512) 9492459.

Fe que crece en el servicio a los otros Por Sara Ramirez | Catholic Charities of Central Texas

Mientras que nuestro viaje por la Cuaresma continúa, también lo hacen nuestras prácticas de oración, ayuno y dar limosna que preparan nuestros corazones y mentes para la gloria de la Pascua.

Muchos de nosotros usamos la temporada Pascual como un catalizador para “renunciar” a algo que disfrutamos, tal como chocolate, refrescos, medios sociales o cualquier número de lujos. Algunos de nosotros usamos el tiempo para limpiarnos a nosotros mismos de vicios o tentaciones para poder comenzar nuevos con la Resurrección de Cristo en la Pascua. Y muchos de nosotros, en el espíritu de dar limosna, no solo damos nuestro dinero a causas caritativas sino que también compartimos nuestro tiempo y talento en el servicio a Dios a través de actos de

caridad y trabajos de misericordia.

La meta de nuestra oración, ayuno y nuestro dar limosnas debe ser una relación más profunda e íntima con Dios. Nuestros sacrificios deben dejarnos cambiados, no simplemente volvernos a nuestros viejos días una vez que esos 40 días se han terminado. Aún cuando volvemos a nuestro chocolate y refrescos ¿Cómo continuamos creciendo más cerca de Dios por el resto del año?

En Catholic Charities of Central Texas, tengo el privilegio de encontrarme con Cristo cara a cara cada día en aquellos a quienes servimos.

Las familias que caminan a través de nuestras puertas me han ayudado a profundizar en mi fa en tantas maneras. En presencia de una multitud de retos – pérdida del empleo, embarazos no planeados, separación familiar, o desastre – ellos exudan gozo, gratitud, fortaleza y resistencia. Me han enseñado que el amor de Dios es mayor que

cualquier reto ante mí y que sólo en Él puedo encontrar la verdadera felicidad y paz. Cuando se acaban los sacrificios de Cuaresma, nuestros clientes son los que me ayudan a mantener el gozo de la Resurrección.

Mientras que la Cuaresma se acerca al final, animo a los Católicos a considerar tomar el siguiente paso en su viaje de fe encontrando a Cristo a través de las familias que servimos en Catholic Charities como un voluntario. El año pasado en Catholic Charities, 576 voluntarios dieron su tiempo y talento para servir a madres y padres embarcándose en el viaje de la paternidad, a familias impactadas por desastres naturales, y a inmigrantes buscando refugio permanente en un nuevo país.

Ellos enseñaron clases, contestaron teléfonos y procesaron donaciones.

Elos usaron su experiencia y su práctica profesional para hacer una diferencia en la vida de otros.

Catholic Charities of Central Texas

está eternamente agradecida por cada uno de los 576 voluntarios, y reconocemos que no podemos hacer el trabajo confiado a nosotros solos. Se necesita toda nuestra comunidad de fe.

Abril es el Mes Nacional del Voluntariado. Este mes provee de una oportunidad especial para honrar a aquellos que sirven e involucrar aún a más gente de buena voluntad en el servicio a otros. Como Católicos celebrando el Misterio Pascual, ahora es el momento perfecto de darnos a nosotros mismos el honor del regalo definitivo de Cristo hacia nosotros. Y, por que al dar recibimos, le prometo que usted recibirá abundantes bendiciones a través de Cristo al servir a los necesitados.

Para aprender cómo puede usted compartir su tiempo y talento como un voluntario en Catholic Charities of Central Texas, visite www.ccctx.org/ volunteer o contacte a Claire Bordelon, coordinadora de voluntarios, al (512) 651-6159 o a claire-bordelon@ccctx.org.

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Taller une a músicos en ritmo y unidad Por el Personal del Catholic Spirit

Peter Kolar, un compositor Católico renombrado pianista y orador de El Paso, y el Editor de los Recursos en Español y Bilingües para GIA Publications, visitó la Diócesis de Austin los días 22 y 23 de febrero para ofrecer un concierto y taller para músicos parroquiales hablantes de español e inglés.

Los eventos fueron patrocinados por la Oficina de Culto Divino diocesana junto con el Capítulo de Austin de la National Association of Pastoral Musicians. Asistieron más de cien músicos de toda la diócesis.

El concierto se llevó a cabo en St. Vincent de Paul Parish en Austin y presentó canciones escritas por Kolar y otros compositores Católicos. Muchos estilos diferentes de música fueron presentados a lo largo del concierto, dijo Andrea Ramos, directora asociada

de música de la diócesis.

“Fue hermoso por que la música permitió a la audiencia y a los músicos no sólo alabar a Dios sino también meditar y orar,” dijo Ramos.

Al día siguiente Kolar ofreció un taller para músicos hablantes de inglés y español en San José Parish en Austin. Él animó a los participantes a discutir y compartir sus puntos de vista y aproximaciones al ministerio musical basados en sus antecedentes culturales.

Ramos dijo que el taller, titulado “Many Rhythms, One Prayer/Diversos Ritmos, Una Oración,” fomentó un entendimiento más profundo de las culturas hispana y americanas, y la manera en que ambas culturas ven su papel como músicos pastorales.

“Esta también fue una oportunidad para que se acercaran ambas comunidades, se reconocieran y pensaran en maneras para trabajar juntas y apoyarse mutuamente en sus parroquias,” dijo.

Espiritualidad y Dirección Espiritual En Español Hibrido: En-linea/presencial

Te invitamos a formarte como Director Espiritual El programa se centra en tres cursos: 

Espiritualidad, La Espiritualidad Hispana y Las Grandes Tradiciones Espirituales:

Franciscana, Ignaciana, Carmelita, Salesiana, Misionera, de la Liberación, Carismática, Historia de la espiritualidad en el Nuevo Mundo, Religiosidad popular



Fundamentos Básicos de la Dirección Espiritual



Practica y Supervisión [segundo año]

Fecha limite para recibir aplicaciones: Mayo 30 (cupo limitado) Inicio: Agosto 30, 2019 Horarios de clases en línea: Lunes 7:00-9:30 pm Se requiere su presencia 1 Sábado al mes Informes: J ulia Hinojosa—jhinojosa@ost.edu https://ost.edu/espiritualidad-y-direccion-espiritual/ 285 Oblate Drive, San Antonio, TX. 78216 | (210) 341-1366 ext. 329

El taller también expuso a los participantes a recursos musicales bilingües.

Kolar también abordó técnicas para interpretar ritmos y estilos latinoamericanos de manera apropiada, recordando el papel del músico pastoral.

Esto permitió que el participante del taller aprendiera desde habilidades prácticas a hacer música juntos, dijo Ramos.

“Estoy tan agradecida de que muchos músicos de nuestra diócesis pudieran asistir,” dijo. “Espero con ansias más eventos como estos donde podemos reunirnos para compartir nuestros talentos, aprender nue-

“Diversos Ritmos, Una Oración,” el título de un concierto y un taller llevados a cabo en febrero, reunion a músicos hablantes de inglés y en español de toda la diócesis. (Foto por Andrea Ramos)

vas cosas, y difundir el mensaje de unidad.”

Para aprender sobre futuros talleres y eventos para ministros musicales, contacte a Andrea Ramos en la Oficina diocesana de Culto Divino en andrea-ramos@austindiocese.org o llámela al (512) 949-2448.

TALLER DE EIM

Todo clero, religioso, seminarista, empleado y adultos voluntarios sirviendo en un ministerio que requiera el cumplimiento con EIM debe entregar una Aplicación para el Ministerio de EIM (sólo una vez) y asistir a un taller de EIM al menos una vez cada tres año. Vaya a www.eappsdb.com/austin para enviar una nueva aplicación o para entrar a su cuenta existente para encontrar una lista de los talleres e inscribirse (Use el Inicio de “Forgot Password” si usted no recuerda su ID/palabra clave o password).

Contacte al administrador de sitio de EIM de su parroquia (inserte nombre) si necesita una aplicación de EIM en papel o cualquier otra asistencia.

Notas del Taller: 1) Los asistentes deben de pre-inscribirse al menos 24 horas antes de la hora de inicio del taller - ya no se admite que lleguen personas que no se hayan inscrito, 2) llegue temprano- los que lleguen tarde no son admitidos y 3) no traiga niños al taller de EIM. Si usted es una víctima de abuso sexual y tiene preocupaciones concernientes a su asistencia a un taller, contacte a Emily Hurlimann llamando al (512) 949-2477 para discutir un arreglo alternativo para el taller. ¿HA USTED, O ALGUIEN QUE USTED CONOCE, EXPERIMENTADO ABUSO? El Obispo José Vásquez y la Diócesis de Austin están comprometidos a proveer de cuidado compasivo a personas que hayan experimentado abuso, particularmente si éste fue cometido por clero o un representante de la iglesia. Si usted, o alguien que usted conocer ha experimentado dicho abuso, contacte a la Coordinadora diocesana de Asistencia a las Víctimas y Apoyo Pastoral, escribiendo a ileana-hinojosa@ austindioce.org o llame al (512) 949-2400.

REPORTE EL ABUSO Reporte el abuso de un menor, un adulto mayor o un adulto con una discapacidad a las autoridades locales del cumplimiento de la ley o a la Línea Directa del Abuso de Texas en www.txabusehotline.org o llamando al (800) 252-5400 y a la diócesis de Austin en www.austindiocese.org/report-abuse o llamando al (512) 949-2447.

REPORTE COMPORTAMIENTO NO ÉTICO Reporte comportamiento no ético por parte de una paersona sirviendo en ministerio a la diócesis en www.austindiocese.org/other-concerns o llamando al (512) 949-2447.

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De las ‘Cenizas a la Pascua’ y de ahí a los niños de Haití Por Ricardo Gandara | Corresponsal

La colecta De las Cenizas a la Pascua – esas pequeña cajas para monedas que nuestros niños traen a casa de la iglesia durante la Cuaresma – han tenido un impacto en el empobrecido Haití y en un preescolar llamado St. Francis of Assisi. Sólo $250 provee del salario de un maestro de un mes, libros para el salón, y el almuerzo diario para un niño, con frecuencia, la única comida que un niño recibirá durante el día.

La escuela está localizada en Durissy, una comunidad en el medio de una jungla en la península sur de Haití; la escuela es la única semejanza de algo moderno. “Los niños tienen hambre,” dijo Kathy Pomeroy, quien, con su esposo Don han ido a Durissy muchas veces.

“La primera palabra que aprendimos en criollo fue “gangu”. Que quiere decir ‘tengo hambre’”.

El cólera es un gran problema; la mayoría de los niños necesitan vacunas. Esta es la realidad en Durissy donde cerca de 6,000 personas viven protegiéndose de la jungla en habitaciones improvisadas como chozas sin agua corriente o electricidad. Los niños caminan hasta dos horas para asistir a la escuela.

A través de su organización sin fines

de lucro Educate Haiti y otros grupos, 474 niños de edades de 3 años hasta preparatoria reciben educación religiosa gratuita. La escuela acepta niños de todas las fes. Los Pomeroys, parroquianos de St. Anthony Marie de Claret Parish en Kyle, vacían sus corazones, tiempo y dinero para ayudar a educar a los niños.

El Padre Anis Ives, un sacerdote, lidera la escuela con la meta de educar generaciones de Haitianos para que salgan de la pobreza. Durissy está en la parte más pobre de Haití; el ingreso anual individual es de $100. La comunidad está aún reponiéndose de un terremoto mayor que sufrió en 2010 y del Huracán Matthew de 2016.

“El Padre Anis nos dice que tienes que educar dos generaciones de Haitianos para que ellos puedan hacer un cambio en su país,” dijo Kathy, quien está retirada de una carrera de 44 años en educación. Su último empleo fue preparando a futuros maestros de preescolar en Indiana University.

La campaña De las Cenizas a la Pascua, la cual es recogida durante la temporada de Cuaresma con esas pequeñas cajas moradas, recoge anualmente cerca de $100,000 para dar fondos a proyectos misioneros como la escuela en Durissy. Estas monedas que ponemos en las cajitas moradas hacen

Próximos Eventos Los líderes pastorales están invitados a este dinámico entrenamiento prematrimonial de inventarios, Fully Engaged, el sábado 13 de april de 2019 de 9 a.m. a 12 p.m. en el Centro Pastoral de la Diócesis de Austin, 6225 E. Highway 290 en Austin. Este es un inventario católico catequético premarital diseñado para ayudar a las parejas comprometidas a consolidar el fundamento sobre el cual, junto con Cristo, construirán su Sacramento del matrimonio. Para obtener más información e inscribirse, envíe un correo electrónico a phi-le@austindiocese.org.

El noveno Peregrinaje Anual de Viernes Santo se llevará a cabo el 19 de abril, comenzando a las 12:30 pm en St. Mary Cathedral en Austin. Nuestro Señor y Salvador se impuso a si mismo el cargar todos nuestros pecados con gran amor en la cruz. Reunámosnos en peregrinaje en recuerdo de su Pasión y para viajar hacia un futuro lleno de su fortaleza y amor. Acompáñenos mientras nos reunidmos en St. Mary Cathedral en el centro de Austin para “Caminar con Cristo” al Marian Shrine of Our Lady of Schoenstatt en el Oeste de Austin.

Pararemos en el camino para orar las Estaciones de la Cruz y para descansar.

Transporte al santuario estará disponible en las paradas de descanso para aquellos peregrinos que elijan sólo caminar una porción del peregrinaje de 9 millas. El tiempo estimado de llegada es las 6:30 p.m. seguido por la liturgia de Viernes Santo de las 7 p.m. El Marian Shrine of Our Lady of Schoenstatt está ubicado en 225 Addie Roy Rd en Austin. Para mayor información, llame al (512) 330-0602.

Una Misa (en español) en honor de la beatificación de la Madre Conchita Cabrera será celebrada el 4 de mayo a las 10:00 a.m. en San José Parish en Austin. Ella nació el 8 de diciembre de 1862 y murió el 3 de marzo de 1937, así que vivió durante la persecución de la iglesia en México. Ella fue esposa, madre de nueve niños, viuda y abuela y fundó cinco Obras de Apostolados de la Cruz (Obras de la Cruz). Madre Cabrera fue intensamente devota a María, y escribió muchas obras devotas a Jesús y a la espiritualidad. Será beatificada el 4 de mayo en la ciudad de México.

una gran diferencia en las partes más pobres del mundo, dijo Vianey Hernández, la coordinadora de misiones para la Diócesis de Austin.

Este año, el proyecto de los Pomeroy recibió un fondo de $25,000 para seguir con su causa gracias a De las Cenizas a la Pascua, que se lleva a cabo por parte de la Oficina diocesana de Misión y Educación Misionera.

“Los Pomeroys quieren a la gente de Durissy. Su compromiso con los niños y familias es admirable e inspirador,”dijo Hernández.

Cada año, la campaña De las Cenizas a la Pascua provee de fondos para grupos misioneros locales y otras actividades misioneras en la Diócesis de Austin.

“El continuo trabajo misionero hecho por parroquianos de la Diócesis de Austin localmente y fuera del país, es la personificación del llamado misionero que todos los bautizados reciben”. Dijo.

“Estos misioneros fortalecen a nuestra iglesia y nuestra fe al compartir y defender el mandamiento de ‘ámense los unos a los otros’”.

Decir amor es una subestimación cuando se habla con los Pomerosy.

“Tenemos 474 hijos,” dijo Kathy. Los Pomeroys han estado en Durissy siete veces desde 2014 cuando fueron por primera vez acomapñando a voluntarios de una parroquia en Indiana para construir un campo de juegos en el vecino Saintard.

Su trabajo y el de otras organizaciones sin fines de lucro está haciendo una diferencia significativa. La escuela tiene ahora baños. Este otoño, un proyecto solar será completado para proveer de electricidad para ventiladores y cumplir el sueño de computadoras en el salón.

Los Pomeroys tienen patrocinadores en 29 estados para yaudarlos a cumplir con un presupuesto escolar anual de $105,000. Pero, están buscando más donaciones por que la necesidad es grande.

El deseo de los Pomeroy es que una

Don y Kathy Pomeroy, parroquianos de St. Anthony Marie de Claret Parish en Kyle usarán los fondos reunidos a través de la Colecta De las Cenizas a la Pascua para ayudar a la St. Francis of Assisi School en Haití. (Foto por Ricardo Gandara)

parroquia de Texas se una a la escuela como un proyecto ministerial. Aún la donación más pequeña individual significa una comida diaria de arroz y frijoles. Ellos hablarán con cualquier persona que escuche, dijeron.

A pesar de la desesperación en Durissy, hay muchas señales positivas de esperanza. Los niños vienen a la escuela en uniformes limpios. “Los haitianos valoran mucho la educación,” Don, un antiguo profesor de contabilidad, dijo.

“La última vez que estuve ahí, estaba muy cansado al final del día y un hombre se me acercó y me tomó de la mano.

Me agradeció por lo que estábamos haciendo por los niños.”

Kathy da la bienvenida a la oportunidad de practicar su filosofía favorita.

“San Francisco dijo algo sobre predicar seguido usando palabras cuando fuera necesario. Es ser un misionero activo,” dijo.

Y, aunque el trabajo misionero puede ser abrumador en un país empobrecido, el espíritu de la gente hace que los Pomeroy sigan regresando.

“Aunque la gente es tan pobre, son felices. Deben de ver sus sonrisas,” dijo Kathy.

Visite www.EducateHaitii.net para mayor información sobre el proyecto.

SIGHTINGS

APRIL 2019

27

St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School in Austin hosted the sixth annual Cuts for Cancer event on Feb. 22. A total of 163 ponytails were donated to Children With Hair Loss, an organization that provides human hair replacements at no cost to children and young adults facing medically related hair loss. (Photo courtesy Cristina Almanza)

On Ash Wednesday, Bishop Joe Vรกsquez, along with Father Tim Nolt and Deacon Dan Lupo, celebrated the Liturgy of the Word with distribution of ashes at the State Capitol. (Photos courtesy Deacon Dan Lupo)

The Christ Child Society of Texas, Capital Area Inc., participated in the Texas Rally for Life on Jan. 26 at the State Capitol. (Photo courtesy Ofelia Melendez)

During Catholic Schools Week, Santa Cruz Catholic School in Buda collected items for Annunciation Maternity Home in Georgetown. The school also held their annual Mardi Gras Casino Night fundraiser on Feb. 23 and raised more than $60,000 in scholarships for the community. (Photos courtesy Michelle Quintanilla) Bishop Joe Vรกsquez blessed the foundation and helped raise the first wall for the 2019 John E. McCarthy Memorial Catholic Build with Austin Habitat for Humanity. The Layne Family is well on their way to a home of their own thanks to the Catholic Build. (Photos courtesy Becca Halbert)

Father Nock Russell, as delegated by Bishop Joe Vรกsquez, celebrated confirmation with the youth of St. John the Baptist Parish in Fayetteville on Feb.17. (Photo courtesy Paulette Keilers)

The Clerical Endowment Fund now offers the $25 individual perpetual folder in Vietnamese.

The spiritual benefits include Masses offered by the CEF director and the bishop as well as daily remembrance by the Carmelite nuns in Christoval.

(Photo courtesy Patsy Alvarez)

St. Louis Catholic School in Austin participated in the Austin Energy Regional Science Fair. Four students placed in their respective categories and two advanced to state competition. (Photo courtesy Carrie Vernieuw) Send photos by the 10th of the month to catholic-spirit@austindiocese.org. Publication is not guaranteed.

The youth group from St. Patrick Parish in Hutto pick-up litter quarterly on both sides of Chris Kelly Boulevard from Carl Stern Street to U.S. Hwy. 70 in Hutto. (Photo courtesy Patty Scott)

SIGHTINGS

28

Austin Diocese 6225 Hwy. 290 East Austin, Texas 78723

The Golden Rose, Queen of Ireland Division of The Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians held a St. Brigid’s Day Tea fundraiser. They raised $1,200 for St. Louise House of Austin. (Photo courtesy Marie O’Shaughnessy Martin)

The eighth annual Creating Hope Luncheon in the Brazos Valley was held Feb. 7 at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish in College Station. Father Brian McMaster was the guest speaker. More than $137,000 was rasied during the luncheon. (Photos courtesy Kara Henderson)

The seventh annual men’s conference was held Feb. 23 at St. William Parish in Round Rock.

This year’s conference was titled “No Man Left Behind: Winning God’s Way.”(Photo courtesy Gabriel R. Lujan)

Ryan Isaacs and his new bride Jessica Pereira, who were recently married by Father Ed Karasek, met Pope Francis at the Sposi Novelli, which is a blessing for newlyweds in Rome. (Photo courtesy Ryan Isaacs)

On behalf of the families of St. Joseph Parish in Mason, Father Melvin Dornak presented a check to the Mason County Nutrition Program. (Photo courtesy Judy Uherek)

Roger and Maura Conway chaperoned Amy Simmons and Monsie Martinez, teenagers from St. Mary, Our Lady of the Lake in Lago Vista, to the World Youth Day festivities in Panama City. (Photo courtesy Amy Simmons)

The dance team from St. Michael’s Catholic Academy was named the Austin Crowd Pleasers 2019 Grand Champion, which makes them eligible to perform at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade.

CATHOLIC SPIRIT Periodical Postage Paid at Austin, Texas

Josh Bannon, a senior at St. Michael’s Catholic Academy in Austin, now holds the state record in the 100-meter breaststroke. He won the event and came in second in the 200-meter individual medley at the TAPPS DIV II state championship.

(Photos courtesy Laura Duggan)

New members were inducted into the Eucharistic Apostles of Divine Mercy March 2 at St. Margaret Mary Parish in Cedar Park. (Photo courtesy Veronica Cook) Through the Reading for Hope Program, fifth and sixth grade students from St. Louis Catholic School in Waco raised $4,000 for St. Jude Research Center in memory of Feryn Schulte, a former student who died in 2015. (Photo courtesy Becky Chollett)

Send photos by the 10th of the month to catholic-spirit@austindiocese.org. Publication is not guaranteed.