March 27, 2021
Worship in the Crossroads
Advertising Section of
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Welcome
to our 2021 Worship in the Crossroads. In this year’s edition you will find places to worship, special events, fun for the family and gifts for the home. Have a safe and happy Easter! For all of your religion advertising, contact: Lisa Joiner 361-574-1241 ljoiner@vicad.com
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During Times Like These No one needs to be reminded that it has been a difficult year. As we entered the Easter season in 2020, we also entered a pandemic that has taken the lives of more than half a million Americans and more than 2.5 million human beings worldwide. For many of us, it has changed the way we do things including shopping and travel and worship. During this time, we experienced a remarkably divisive election cycle culminating in violence in our nation’s capital. For those of us here in Texas we experienced one of the coldest and most damaging winter storm events in memory costing the lives of at least 50 people and leaving millions without heat or water for a long period of time. This has all contributed to financial hardship and stress for millions of us and our neighbors. While all this has been happening personal tragedies and hardships, mental health issues, marital strife, sickness, loss, and grief, continue. Our faith speaks to us, and to the world,during times like these. We begin Holy Week with Palm Sunday, the celebration of Jesus’triumphal entry into the city of Jerusalem. One of the scripture readings often associated
with this day is Mark 11:1-11. Jesus sends two disciples into a village and there they find “a colt that has never been ridden.” Jesus rides this colt into the city. The Greek word here for ‘colt’can refer to any wild, untamed beast. Jesus enters Jerusalem on the back of a wild beast that no human has ridden, that no human has tamed, that no human has conquered. Jesus is the master of all the wild beasts, and it is he who is our savior in the face of all that afflicts us, even death. What are the wild beasts in your life? What are the things, the challenges, the overwhelming obstacles in your life, and in the life of all of us, that can not be defeated by human hands, that no one has ridden? This is the Good News of Easter. In Christ, all that is greater than we can manage is overcome and we are set free to live lives of hope, love, and joy. As we move into this Easter time may you find strength, encouragement, and a renewed faith in the one who has ridden the wild beasts of our lives. May this Easter season be a blessing to you, your family, and to all the world. Thanks be to God. Rev. Dan Fultz Grace Presbyterian Church
Jesus’ Robe
In the middle of the 20th century, a novel by Lloyd C. Douglas captured the public’s imagination. Titled,“The Robe,” the novel was a fictional account about one of the soldiers, Marcellus (played by Richard Burton in the subsequent movie), who had nailed Jesus to the Cross. After Jesus died on the Cross, his robe and other clothes were stripped from his body and divided among the four soldiers present. Because Jesus’robe was of such a fine quality, however, the soldiers decided not to tear it, but rather to draw lots. In the novel, Marcellus won, although in the Biblical account (John 19:23-25a) the four soldiers are not named. The novel and movie tell the story of Marcellus’ troubled life after this event, including, ultimately his dramatic conversion to Christianity. In some English translations, Jesus’ robe is called a tunic; in others, a cloak. In Latin versions of the Bible, the word“cappa”is used, perhaps best translated as“cape.” As the Christian religion grew in the early centuries, shrines were built to hold pieces of Jesus’reputed cape, and these became known as“capella,”or chapels. The priests who tended these shrines were called“capellani.” Eventually, all clergy associated with the military came to be known as capellani, a word which became anglicized as“chaplains.”
Today, military chaplains in the U.S. armed forces are aware of the spiritual origin of their duties, although no longer as literal keepers of Jesus’robe but as trusted keepers of the Good News of love, comfort, salvation, and life-everlasting for which Christ died to save us all. It is clear to chaplains, as it is to all Christians, that as Christ’s body was lowered from the Cross, he left us much more than his robe.With his Resurrection, he gave us hope, salvation, and a comfort and warmth in knowing that nothing in all creation can separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:39). This Easter, as we consider our many blessings after a long year of hardship, pain, sacrifice, and even the death of loved ones, let us also remember to share the blessings of this Good News. Spiritually, we are all keepers of the robe, chaplains of Christ’s message of love for all humanity. For Christians, this is not a piece of cloth hidden away in a Capella; it is a message of Easter hope we carry in out hearts always, anxious to share it with others. Happy Easter! Peace be with you. The Rev. James DeMent Pastor, First Presbyterian Church of Victoria
First Presbyterian ChurCh oF ViCtoria Cordially inVites you to
easter WorshiP serViCe aPril 4, 2021 | 10:30 a.M.
Grace Presbyterian Church
in-Person WorshiP 2408 n. naVarro ViCtoria, tx 77901 liVe streaMing at WWW.FPCoFViCtoria.org
3604 N. Ben Jordan, Victoria, TX 77901 | 361-573-4840
All services virtual at
Facebook: “Grace PC Victoria Tx” | YouTube: “Grace PC Victoria Texas” Website: www.gracevictoria.org and Live stream: Facebook: “Daniel Fultz” March 28 ........................ ........................Palm Palm Sunday: 11:00 AM April 1 ............................ ............................Maundy Maundy Thursday: 6:00 PM April 4 ............................ ............................Easter Easter Sunrise: 7:00 AM Worship Service with Holy Communion: 11:00 AM Please join us from the safety and comfort of your home.
He is not here, but hasRisen.
Luke 24:5 (NRSV)
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A New Day Dawns… Especially at Easter
DR. JOHN E. QUARY, Superintendent of Schools, Diocese of Victoria in Texas The pandemic has slowly begun to release its hold on Texas. The days are growing longer and warmer, and there is at long last a light at the end of the proverbial tunnel of 2020… the Easter resurrection. A new day is certainly dawning in our diocese! This beacon of hope and promise for our children’s future is shining brightly here in the Catholic schools of the Diocese of Victoria. Parents, students, staffs, and communities throughout our Catholic school system began many years ago in providing a bright future for their students and school communities. In fact, this unwavering dedication to quality, Catholic education has a proud and remarkable tradition that has lit the way for more than 150 years. These lights have taken the form of “candles of education” in the fifteen schools of the diocese—twelve elementary schools and three high schools—which are located within ten counties and boast an enrollment of almost 3,000 students. The schools, both private and parochial, are under the guidance of our local shepherd, Bishop Brendan Cahill, who delegates the overall administration to the diocesan superintendent, Dr. John E. Quary. Pope Francis reminds us, “The family remains the basic unit of society and the first school in which
children learn the human, spiritual and moral values which enable them to be a beacon of goodness, integrity and justice in our communities.” That beacon of goodness and hope is seen throughout the halls of our Catholic schools. Through the cooperation of loving parents, our teachers, staffs and administrators are bringing the light of Christ to our students and providing a new dawn every morning we open the doors of our Catholic schools. Scripture continually reminds us to give of ourselves and to build up the Kingdom of Heaven here on earth. The bible is replete with these familiar passages, and this quote from Matthew 5:16 is no exception: “Your light must shine before all so that they may see the goodness in your acts.” Let us take a closer look at the giving of parents and families throughout the Catholic schools of the Diocese of Victoria whereupon the light of Christ shines brightly and boldly in our classrooms. The family units of our Catholic school children are consistently providing the first light to prepare them to enter our schools with a sense of awe and wonder about learning. Our schools earnestly carry forth that light to continue providing a F.I.R.S.T.-class education… for life!© This acronym from the vision statement tagline of the Office of Catholic Schools is ever present at our campuses, but at this time of Easter, it looms large.
“F is for our faith,” as it represents the bedrock of our service and presence in the community. This faith practice, as seen through the eyes of our thousands of students and parents, permeates our schools through the love of our risen Savior. “I is for our integrity,” which is on display through the strong moral uprightness of our administrators, our parents, our pastors, our teachers, and the supporters and friends of Catholic education. “R is for our respect” for each other, all life, God’s creations, and our school communities. “S is for our scholarship” that abounds in the many accolades our students and staff receive annually that range from statewide to nationwide entities. And finally, “T is for our tradition” that has been in place for more than 150 years! Whether our traditions are seen in the plaid uniforms of our students, the religious that continue to teach in our schools, the opportunity to practice and proclaim our faith, or the sacrifices our parents continue to make, they continue to provide a place for teaching minds and touching hearts for the present and future generations of Catholic Christians and other faith traditions. As we look forward to basking in the resurrecting light of the risen Lord, let us recall that the most treasured light parents provide to Catholic schools is their children. Their trust
in our guidance and care is a responsibility we take very seriously. The added religious dimension affords us with limitless opportunities to grow in our faith and shape the character of our youngsters by instilling the values of hard work, social justice, respect for all life, academic discipline, and many others that contribute to our diocesan schools, where the Catholic roots run deep. Our school communities include: Holy Cross Catholic School in Bay City, Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic School in Port Lavaca, Sacred Heart Catholic School in Hallettsville, St. Ludmila Elementary and St. Paul High School in Shiner, St. Michael’s Catholic School in Cuero, St. Philip the Apostle Catholic School in El Campo, St. Rose of Lima Catholic School in Schulenburg, St. Joseph Catholic School in Yoakum, St. Michael Catholic School in Weimar, St. Anthony of Padua Catholic School in Columbus, and Nazareth Academy Catholic School, Our Lady of Victory Catholic School, and St. Joseph High School in Victoria. As you consider a new home for your precious children or grandchildren, come learn and grow with us. Registration for all schools is currently taking place and we welcome the opportunity to tell you about the wonders and awe-inspiring moments that await you and your family in our Catholic schools. A new school year is dawning… come shine with us!
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Diocese of Victoria
Happy Easter from the Office of Catholic Schools Enroll Today!
The Diocese of Victoria Catholic Schools serve ten counties throughout the Crossroads. Visit our website and learn how your family can grow in faith and love while receiving a first-class, Christ-centered education. https://www.victoriadiocese.org/catholic-schools
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‘I want to be with Jesus’ When I was ordained a priest, there was one moment in the long ceremony which moved me to the point of having tears. It was during the third verse of the offertory hymn,“I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light.” When I heard the words, “I want to be with Jesus,” I just started crying. These words broke through all of my thoughts and emotions that day. They represented what I want to do with my whole life: to be with Jesus, to spend the rest of my days with Him. Every authentic Christian desires to be with Jesus, and as we begin Holy Week this Sunday, we are given a special time to be with Jesus and to be close to all those events in His life leading up to His death on the Cross and His rising from the grave. Holy Week and Easter is a special time to be with Jesus. Christians have always set aside particular days and times to come together to celebrate the events of our salvation, especially the Sunday celebration of the Resurrection. Perhaps the weekly time of worship seems like it is just a time to talk and sing about past events. However, authentic Christian worship is much more than that. When we gather in front of the altar of God, the past is made present. Jesus and His saving actions are here with us. The Cross and the Resurrection are relived and re-presented to us. This happens at every Mass, and it happens in a special way every year in the great liturgies during Holy Week and Easter. On Good Friday, the Cross is truly present. On Easter Sunday, Jesus rises from the grave. In church, our yearly celebrations are much more than just a series of anniversa-
ries. They bring Jesus and His life to us. They are real. I have always felt a special closeness to Jesus when worshiping at Mass. I want to be with Jesus and He is there. We can certainly be close to Jesus in other places and in other ways. I, too, find Him in nature and in the joy of holy friendships, but there is no substitute for the way in which I am with Him in the Mass. He is there through His own promise, “This is my Body. This is my Blood.” He is there through His own command to His apostles, “Do this in memory of me.” When I’m at Mass, I often feel like I am in a place like no other. I am in a place that transcends time and place. The vestments worn by the priest and servers originate from another time and have been stylized over time to be something very different than what I would encounter anywhere else today. The move-
ments, the postures are very different, almost foreign to the casual times that we live in. The way of speaking, the prayers, the vocabulary seems to go beyond our time. There is different music, a treasury of music taken from throughout the centuries. When I’m at Mass, time changes. Sometimes, even, I’m oblivious to time, (but hopefully not while preaching the sermon!) All this contributes to the reality that another time and place is also present. Christian worship has to be real time with Jesus. It has to be real time spent with Jesus on Calvary, where He offered the perfect sacrifice to God the Father, to save us from sin and death. Through Holy Week and Easter, Jesus changed our lives forever. Fulfill your own “want to be with Jesus” by being with Him in the Upper Room and the Mount of Olives on Holy Thursday, on the
Cross on Good Friday, and outside the broken tomb on Easter Sunday. You will find Him in authentic Christian worship. May you have a most blessed Holy Week and Easter. The Rev. Kristopher Fuchs The Rev. Kristopher Fuchs is the Pastor of St. Mary’s Church in downtown Victoria. St. Mary’s is Victoria’s first church and has her origins in 1824 through the city’s founder, Martin De Leon. St. Mary’s was canonically erected as a parish church in 1840 and is the second oldest Catholic parish in the state of Texas. Completed in 1904, the current church building, along with the neighboring Nazareth Convent, is one of Victoria’s greatest architectural, cultural and spiritual treasures.
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at the corner of Church St. and Main St. in downtown Victoria
HOLY WEEK & EASTER SCHEDULE Palm Sunday
Saturday Vigil Mass at 4:00 pm Sunday Mass at 8:00 am Sunday Mass at 10:30 am
Holy THurSday
Mass at 7:30 pm
Good Friday
Service at 12:00 noon
EaSTEr ViGil
Mass at 8:00 pm
EaSTEr Sunday
Mass at 8:00 am Mass at 10:30 am
http://www.stmvictoria.org/
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It’s Never Too Late
JANET JONES Director of Communications for the Diocese of Victoria It is never too late to begin preparing our hearts for Easter.Even if you did not begin observing Lent on Ash Wednesday, Holy Week holds such promise for God’s children. Tomorrow is Palm Sunday and, through prayer and reflection, we can walk with Jesus through His passion and suffering, so when Easter comes our joy will be greater. After all we’ve been through recently, particularly the pandemic that has kept many at a distance, what can be better than celebrating the victory of life over death? Pope Francis, standing in a virtually empty St. Peter Square last yearat Easter said: “This is a different ‘contagion,’ a message transmitted from heart to heart – for every human heart awaits this Good News. It is the
contagion of hope: ‘Christ, my hope, is risen!’ This is no magic formula that makes problems vanish. No, the resurrection of Christ is not that. Instead, it is the victory of love over the root of evil, a victory that does not ‘by-pass’ suffering and death, but passes through them, opening a path in the abyss, transforming evil into good: this is the unique hallmark of the power of God. “The Risen Lord is also the Crucified One, not someone else. In his glorious body he bears indelible wounds: wounds that have become windows of hope. Let us turn our gaze to him that he may heal the wounds of an afflicted humanity.” In order to make ourselves ready to celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus on Easter, we pray, fast and give. Begin a novena or a rosary this week, fast from food, bad behaviors
or activities that take away from your quality time with family. Give to a special cause or help a friend who needs help around the house. Consider going to confession if it has been a long time. Reconciliation is a beautiful part of the Church, a special gift. If you don’t know where to start, call on your parish priest or call the rectory of any church in the Diocese of Victoria. Your concerns are our priests’ concerns, and they are there to answer your questions and help you live fully in faith. Laura Reyes, who spoke during the 2021 Walk for Life,after living in what she called the “dumpster of sin” experienced the Holy Spirit and desired reconciliation. “That desire to go to confession was a gift of grace from God. I wanted to get rid of the load of my sin.”She said
that she lived through a period of not feeling worthy enough and she knows that many people think it’s too late to amend their lives. But she has learned the truth: “God is always accepting and ready to receive us,” she said. Our parishes are following COVID-19 protocols with masks and social distancing in the pews. But if you are uncomfortable right now with social gatherings or are not well enough to attend in person, the Easter Mass will be televised on KAVU at 9 a.m. Sunday and many of our churches live stream Masses and other services. Go to www.dioceseofvictoria.org/ parishfinder to look up the churches in our diocese and find out what resources are there to help you to prepare your heart and have the best Easter ever.
Victoria in Texas The Catholic Diocese of
This week, as we follow Jesus through His passion, from the darkness of the tomb and to the light of the Resurrection, we pray that each of you finds peace and joy. Have a blessed Easter Season; let’s keep each other in prayer.
Stained glass panel at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Victory, 1309 E. Mesquite in Victoria
Visit us at www.victoriadiocese.org or find us on Facebook
Stained glass panel at Our Lady of Lourdes, 105 N. William St., Victoria
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Come Visit Us for Easter
Christ the Victor Lutheran Church, 102 Stanly, is part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America. We confess the Triune God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit. We proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. In preaching and teaching, we trust the Gospel as the power of God for the salvation of all who believe. We prepare disciples to witness in word and action to God’s rich mercy in Jesus Christ. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection, and life everlasting. We offer the following worship opportunities during Lent and Easter: We celebrate Palm Sunday service at 10 a.m. March 28;Maundy Thursday with Absolution of Sin, Foot-washing, Holy Communion, and Stripping of the Altar
at 6 p.m. April 1; and Good Friday at 6 p.m. April 2. We will celebrate Our Risen Lord and Savior Easter Sunday in our worship service beginning at 10 a.m. April 4. Holy Communion will be celebrated. Since we practice Ecumenical Hospitality, all baptized believers are welcome at His table. We meet at 10 a.m. every Sunday for our Sunday service. We live stream all services. Please check our Web Page and our Facebook for more information regarding CVLC events. VCAM, Christ’s Kitchen,Mid-Coast Family Services, and Perpetual Help Home are supported by our weekly contribution. Everyone is invited to participate in our Easter Celebration. We are blessed by His Presence and pray the Presence blesses you.
Come Worship with Us Palm Sunday
Good Friday
Maundy Thursday
Easter Sunday
March 28 at 10:00 a.m. April 1 at 6 p.m.
With Absolution of Sin, Foot-washing, Holy Communion, and Stripping of the Altar
April 2 at 6 p.m.
April 4 at 10:00 a.m. Holy Communion will be celebrated. Since we practice Ecumenical Hospitality, all baptized believers are welcome at His table.
Christ the Victor Lutheran Church
Live Streaming is available for all services. See our Facebook and Web Page for Details
202 Stanly •Victoria, TX 77904 • 361-575-4363 Fax 361-575-4368 • www.cvlc-victoria.org
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8 tips for dyeing Easter eggs
Courtesy of Metro Coloring eggs is a beloved Easter tradition. Eggs long have been symbols of fertility and rebirth, making them fitting icons for spring. One story links eggs to Easter as well. According to some religious scholars, Mary Magdalene, the woman who was the first person to see Jesus Christ after His resurrection, was holding a plain egg in her hand while waiting for the emperor to share the good news. The emperor then told her that Jesus’ resurrection was as improbable as that egg suddenly blushing. The egg then turned red. Dyeing eggs is an entertaining activity, but one that also may have some religious significance. Many
families will color eggs this Easter, and these guidelines can make the process go smoothly. • Wait until just before coloring to hard-boil eggs. Good Housekeeping recommends boiling eggs for 11 minutes for a hard boil. Do not chill the eggs afterward; warm eggs absorb color more effectively for more vivid results.
• Egg dye can stain furniture, clothing or tablecloths. Therefore, dress in clothing that you’re not worried about staining. Also, cover work surfaces with an old tablecloth and newspapers to soak up any spills. Dyeing Eggs, cont. on pg 17
Together for Holy Week We invite you to come join us, here at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran, as we journey in the love of Jesus, through His teachings and His life as “man” here on earth, and in the Holy Spirit as the risen Lord, who ascended to Heaven, and is at the right hand of the Father. Through worship, prayer and communion, we have various times and dates that we pray are certainly convenient for you to join us during the Easter season! As we look forward to celebrating Holy Week this year, we prepare our hearts for the Easter celebration, not only for cherishing the miracles Jesus performed, and knowing His anointing, but come walk with us through Jesus’ betrayals, persecutions, tribulations, and trials that He endured on His way to the cross.
We will celebrate His triumphant entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, confirming our young people, in their faith walk, as they commit their lives to Christ and living in His presence. During Holy Week, we will concentrate on Jesus’ trials and convictions, as He was crucified on the cross. Then on Easter morning, we celebrate our Risen Lord! Come and celebrate with us, Jesus’ Resurrection, and defeat of sin for all. If you are looking for a “home” to worship, come and join us. We invite you to come and be a part of our worshiping family. Trinity truly is a family in Christ whose mission is to love and serve as the hands and feet of Christ. We always love meeting new friends and welcoming new people to our family.
Come and join us in celebrating our Living Lord
Worship and Holy Communion 3/28 Palm Sunday
Hosanna, Blessed is He (Confirmation) who comes in the name of the Lord! 10:30 a.m.
4/1 Maundy Thursday Trials of Jesus 7:00 p.m.
4/2 Good Friday
Crucifixion, Death & Burial of Jesus 7:00 p.m.
Easter Sunday
He is Risen! He is Alive! Sunday April 4th at 10:30 a.m.
TRINITY EV. LUTHERAN
106 N. Deleon Victoria, Texas | 361-573-4725 | www.trinityvictoria.net
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What Is Easter?
What is Easter? Easter is a time when we give thanks and praise to God for giving us the greatest gift of Jesus, to be our Lord and Savior! During Holy Week (beginning with Palm Sunday), we have the celebrations of Holy Thursday (Lord’s Last Supper), Good Friday (Crucifixion and Death of Jesus), Holy Saturday (Waiting at the Tomb for the Risen Lord), and Easter Sunday (Jesus’ Resurrection). Throughout this Easter Season, we’re reminded of God’s unconditional love for us, through Jesus, who died on the cross for our sins. Mark you, Jesus doesn’t remain on the cross. Just as He promised, He rose from the dead and He did! If Jesus didn’t rise from the dead, we wouldn’t have anything to preach about and our faith is in vain (1 Corinthians 15:14). He rose from the dead,
so we have a renewed hope, faith, love and joy! As Christians, we have a 40day Lenten journey before Easter to make our good…better and our better…best. We can improve upon ourselves spiritually during Lent by increased prayer, almsgiving, and fasting. As St. Jerome says, “Good, better, best. Never let it rest, until your good is better and your better is best!” Last year, we didn’t get the opportunity to celebrate the Easter Season as we normally and traditionally do. With the uncertainties about COVID-19 and the lockdown, we had Diocesan directives that indicated we not do the rituals as usual. In my 36 years of priesthood, there has never been a time when we didn’t participate in Holy Week and the Easter celebrations.
Although it felt so different last Easter, I was able to find hidden blessings. I’m sure many of you did as well. What are the hidden blessings you found? For me, I was able to feel more appreciative of my parish family and friends. I was given the gift of time for more prayer and inspirational reading. I also got back to my bicycle which had been collecting dust in my garage for years. Basically, I found comfort and fulfillment in the fact that the Risen Lord was and is still with us. So, what helps to bring about Easter joy? I feel that there is great joy in remembering what we read in John 3:16…“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
What brings me Easter joy? I enjoy inspiring others, playing my guitar, bringing comfort and God’s healing to the sick and the bereaved, sharing God’s word, enabling others to see their giftedness, and encouraging people to keep up with their goodness. One of my favorite daily prayers is, “Lord, help me to preach a better sermon with my life than with my lips.” Now, I have a question for you. How can you share Easter joy and let others know that you believe in the Risen Lord? You can do this by your life…by your renewed hope, faith, love and joy in our Lord, Jesus Christ! Happy Easter to you and your families! Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia! Rev. Gabriel Bentil Pastor, Holy Family
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JOIN US AS WE PRAY, HONOR, AND CELEBRATE OUR
LORD AND SAVIOR THIS EASTER WEEKEND.
Holy Thursday mass of the Lord’s Supper April 1st at 7:00 pm (on facebook live and on our website)
Adoration in the chapel of repose available until midnight.
Holy Saturday Easter vigil in the Holy Night April 3rd at 8:00 pm
Friday of the Passion of the Lord Good Friday April 2nd at 3:00 pm Stations of the Cross at 9:00 am (both on facebook live and on our website)
Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord April 4th Mass times 7:30 am, 9:00 AM and 11:00 am (on facebook live and onAND our ON website) (9 AM MASS ON FACEBOOK LIVE OUR WEBSITE)
Holy Family Catholic Church 704 Mallette Dr. 361-573-5304 HFCCVIC.ORG
∞
FACEBOOK.COM/HOLYFAMILYVICTORIA
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The Roads We Take
William Sydney Porter, better known by his pen name O. Henry, was one of America’s greatest short story writers of the 20th century. O. Henry was the M. Night Shyamalan of his day with most of his stories having surprise plot-twist endings. Among his best-known writings are “The Gift of the Magi,”“The Last Leaf,” and “The Ransom of Red Chief.” One of my favorite O. Henry stories, titled “The Roads We Take,”is about a group of Old West bandits in Arizona. After a train robbery one of the bandits asked the leader of the group, an Easterner named Shark Dodson, how he wound up out West. Dodson explains when he was 17 years old, he was heading to New York City to make his fortune and came to a fork in the road. After thinking about it, he took the left fork, instead of the right, which led him to a traveling Wild Westshow that he joined, which eventu-
ally led him out West and into a life of crime. Down to one horse and a posse on their trail, Dodson starts wondering if he would have turned out different had he taken “the other road” to the right and New York City instead of coming out West. At some point in life everyone second guesses some of their choices. Should I have taken that job out of high school instead of going to college? Should I have accepted that other job offer instead of the one I am working in now? What if I had married someone else? What if I had kids sooner, or had kids later? When things go wrong we ask ourselves, “Did I take the right road?” The path we choose in life is important, but it is not always our choice. Sometimes we choose the road, and many times the road chooses us. Things like someone running a red light totaling our car, getting let go of a job when the economy goes bad, or the doctor giv-
ing us an unexpected diagnosis, are all things that are out of our control that can put us on a different road in life. In the long run it does not matter if the road we are on was one of our own choosing or life’s circumstances chose it for us, the words of Chuck Swindoll hold true, “Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we choose to respond to it.” In the O. Henry short story “The Roads We Take”Shark Dodson wonders if his life would have been different if he and taken the “right road” to New York City instead of the “left road” that led him out West where he turned to a life of crime. Dodson’s partner responds, probably not because “It ain’t the roads we take; it’s what’s inside of us that makes us turn out the way we do.”I will not give away the twist ending of O.Henry’s “The Roads We Take,” but it drives that point home. The question is what is inside of you? David wrote in Psalm 51:10
“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” That is what Jesus did for us on the cross at Easter, dying in our place and giving us an opportunity to change our eternity and change our attitude and lives from the inside out by placing our faith in Him and following His word by applying it to our everyday lives. If you feel safe getting out and being around people, and you have a church home, I encourage you to go be with your church family this Easter. If you do not have a church family, I encourage you to join us in person 10:30 a.m. this Sunday at Fellowship of the Crossroads for our series “The Road to Easter” as we learn to Love God and Grow, Love Others and Go into the world living out our faith. Together we can build a great life no matter what road we find ourselves on.
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How to navigate Easter celebrations in the era of social distancing
Courtesy of Metro Holidays have been celebrated differently since the outbreak of COVID-19 in late 2019. Easter was among the first major holidays to be celebrated differently in 2020, and celebrations likely won’t return to normal in 2021. Celebrations and social distancing make strange bedfellows. However, it’s possible for people to safely celebrate Easter with their loved ones.
Watch virtual Mass together
Though it might not be the same as attending Mass in person together as a family, watching virtual Mass together can allow families to engage with their faith alongside one another. If the weather permits, use a projector and set it up outside so families can safely watch in the backyard. Make sure everyone wears masks and keeps their distance. If the weather is not cooperating, families can still watch Mass together, even if they’re not
gathered in the same space. Set up a family Zoom call via a smartphone or laptop and then ask all on the call to watch a live stream of Mass on another device.
Take Easter brunch outside
An outdoor brunch provides another way for families to gather this Easter without compromising their health. Brunch makes more sense than dinner since it can be eaten in early afternoon when the weather is likely to be warmer than it will be at dinnertime. Heat lamps can add some warmth to outdoor Easter brunches.
Host an egg hunt in the backyard
The Easter egg hunt is one tradition that need not be sacrificed during the pandemic. Easter egg hunts traditionally take place outdoors, and children can wear masks like many are already doing when going
to school or participating in sports and other extracurricular activities.
Host an Easter movie night Families isolating and spending the day with only those in their own households can watch a movie that commemorates their Christian faith. Various films are set around Easter, including the classic ‘The Greatest Story Ever Told’ (1965)
starring Max von Sydow and Claude Rains and the more recent ‘Risen’ (2016), which focuses on efforts by a Roman military tribune named Clavius (Joseph Fiennes) who is tasked with investigating what happened to Jesus Christ’s body after the Crucifixion. Families can embrace some old and new traditions as they celebrate Easter in the era of social distancing.
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What you Find at Parkway This Easter, we get the chance to celebrate Jesus and to express the hope that we have in Him. The last year has stripped many of their hope and confidence, but Easter Sunday reminds us that hope isn’t lost and that we can have confidence in Jesus, the one who died and rose again for us. I love how Peter put it in 1 Peter 1:35: “3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,” Did you see it? We have a living hope because we have a living Savior. Not only that, but this hope isn’t something that we hold on to, but this hope is God’s gift to us. We have been born into this new hope because of God’s great mercy.
When you lack hope or are full of fear, look to the empty tomb and let the words of the classic hymn encourage your soul. “Because He lives, I can face tomorrow. Because He lives, all fear is gone. Because I know He holds the future and life is worth the living just because He lives.” We invite you to join us for Easter at Parkway. At Parkway, you meet some great people, enjoy inspiring music, and hear an encouraging message from the Bible. We have two locations in Victoria and one location in Port Lavaca plus our live stream that you can enjoy from wherever you are. Get more information on service times and groups at parkwaychurch.tv.
Dyeing Eggs, cont. from pg 11 • Make a drying rack to ensure that eggs will dry evenly. This can be a rimmed cookie sheet lined with layers of paper towels to absorb any excess dye that runs off the eggs. Or push pins into thick foam board and place the eggs on top to allow air to circulate. • Consider using glass bowls or ceramic mugs to house the colored dye solutions. These vessels are more sturdy than plastic cups, and less likely to be overturned by eager young hands. • Scissor-style tongs are ideal tools for retrieving eggs from the dye. Eggs tend to slide off of the spoons or wire rings provided in kits, leading to splashing and kids dunking their fingers in to grab eggs. • Stir dyeing cups often to guarantee consistent color.
• Use electrical tape to make patterns on Easter eggs. Dip the eggs and let dry. Afterwards, remove the tape to reveal the designs. • If food coloring-based dyes seem too messy, use watercolor paint sets and allow everyone to get creative. While some people may want to use Easter eggs for recipes later on, it may be safer to boil up a fresh batch of eggs for that purpose, even if it seems wasteful. According to Emily Rubin, RD, LDN of the Thomas Jefferson University Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, “hard-boiled eggs should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking and discarded if left out for more than two hours at room temperature.” Chances are it may take two hours or more for children to find hard-boiled eggs hidden by the Easter bunny.
Easter Sunday in the Country
11:00 a.m. tentatively hosting St. Luke’s Lutheran Schroeder, Tx
Sunrise Service 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. Martin Luther Lutheran Coletoville, Tx
Maudy Services 7:00 p.m. tentatively hosting Easter Service’s 9:00 a.m. Zion Lutheran Arneckeville, Tx
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Celebrate Holy Week with Us I really love my Catholic faith. I am so grateful for its history, spiritual richness, and incredible beauty. I was raised Catholic so I might be a little biased, but when I finally set myself to uncovering the meaning of the life I had been immersed in, it was like entering a whole new world. Indeed, that world was an entirely new creation where I met our risen Savior, Jesus Christ, was set free from my darkness, was filled with the light of His Holy Spirit, and then guided by Him to intimate knowledge of the Father (gifts that every Christian can relate with). One of the things I like most about how we live that faith in Christ is the way we pray in community – through ritual, liturgy, and sacraments. And this time of the year – Holy Week– is my favorite part of all. It’s so earthy and tangible and concrete. We don’t only call to mind the deeds of Jesus’ last moments on earth, using our imagination to consider what He did to save us. We relive it, in a sense. We carry palms in procession and cry out to the son of David, “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the Name of
the Lord!” We find volunteers to sit in the place of the apostles and then I wash their feet in imitation of our Good Teacher. We retrace the steps of Jesus as He walked on His way to Calvary, venerating the most holy cross, which He used as an instrument to offer Himself to the Father for our salvation. And then, on the Eve of the Resurrection, we gather in darkness outside, light the Easter fire, spread that light to each person who carries their own candle, and slowly fill the church with the presence of Jesus, remembering that “In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” Now if there’s anything this year has taught us, it’s that we’ve been in darkness for too long. In this Holy Week, hear Jesus’ invitation to walk in His light and know that the fullness of His abundance is available to you. Come worship with us at Our Lady of Sorrows and Santísima Trinidad and share the joy we have in Christ Jesus our Lord! Alleluia!
Me encanta mi fe católica. Estoy muy agradecido por su historia, riqueza espiritual y belleza increíble. Me crié católico así que podría ser un poco sesgado, pero cuando finalmente me puse a descubrir el significado de la vida en la que había estado inmerso, fue como entrar en un mundo completamente nuevo. De hecho, ese mundo era una creación nueva en la que conocí a nuestro Salvador resucitado, Jesucristo, fui liberado de mi oscuridad, se llenó de la luz de Su Espíritu Santo y luego fui guiado por Él al conocimiento íntimo del Padre (dones con los que todo cristiano puede relacionarse). Una de las cosas que más me gusta de cómo vivimos esa fe en Cristo es la forma en que oramos en comunidad – a través del ritual, la liturgia, y los sacramentos. Y este tiempo del año – la Semana Santa – es mi parte favorita de todas. Es tan terroso, tangible y concreto. No sólo recordamos las obras de los últimos momentos de Jesús en la tierra, usando nuestra imaginación para considerar lo que Él hizo para salvarnos. Lo revivemos, en cierto sentido. Llevamos palmas en procesión y gritamos al hijo de David: “¡Hosanna! ¡Bendito es El que viene en el
Nombre del Señor!” Encontramos voluntarios para sentarse en el lugar de los apóstoles y luego les lavo los pies en imitación de nuestro Buen Maestro. Repasamos los pasos de Jesús mientras caminaba en Su camino hacia el Calvario, venerando la cruz más santa, que Él utilizó como instrumento para ofrecerse al Padre para nuestra salvación. Y luego, en la Víspera de la Resurrección, nos reunimos en tinieblas afuera, iluminamos el fuego pascual, extendemos esa luz a cada persona que lleva su propia vela, y llenamos lentamente la iglesia con la presencia de Jesús, recordando que “En él había vida, y que la vida era la luz de toda la humanidad. La luz brilla en la oscuridad, y la oscuridad no la ha vencido.” Ahora bien, si hay algo que este año nos ha enseñado, es que hemos estado en la oscuridad por demasiado tiempo. En esta Semana Santa, escucha la invitación del Señor a venir a caminar en Su luz y saber que la plenitud de Su abundancia está a tu disposición. Jesús ha resucitado de entre los muertos, así que sigamos de nuestras tumbas a la nueva luz y a la vida! ¡Aleluya!
Sincerely, Rev. Jacob Koether, Pastor
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EASTER WORSHIP IN THE CROSSROADS - 19
Our Lady of Sorrows and Santísima Trinidad
Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord
Masses will begin with Processions from Parish Halls OLS - 8am, 10am, and 2pm start at Trinity Hall ST - 9am, 11am start at Social Center
Holy Thursday Mass of the Lord’s Supper
OLS - 6 pm ST - 7 pm Masses will be followed by Eucharistic Processions to Altars of Repose in Parish Halls
Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion ST - 12:15 pm Living Stations and Service with Veneration of the Cross will begin at Trinity Chapel on Ozark street. OLS - 3pm Service with Veneration of the Cross
Holy Saturday Solemn Mass of the Easter Vigil OLS - 8pm Bilingual
Easter Sunday of the Lord’s Resurrection
OLS - 8am, 10am, 2pm ST - 9am, 11am Easter Egg Hunt at Santísima Trinidad after 11am
Divine Mercy Sunday
Celebration of the Divine Mercy of the Lord beginning with 2pm Mass at OLS followed by Eucharistic Adoration, Divine Mercy Chaplet, and Reconciliation
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Holy Week celebrates the origins of the Eucharist
Courtesy of Metro The Eucharist is a central component of the Christian faith. During the Eucharistic celebration, the sharing of bread and wine, which many Christians believe symbolizes the actual body and blood of Christ after the process of transubstantiation, takes place. The Easter season is a key time to reflect on the origins of sharing communion and the Eucharist. Church teaching and Biblical study say the origin of the Eucharist occurred at the Last Supper of Jesus, which is commemorated on Holy Thursday. According to the religious resource The Catholic Tradition, the Last Supper in the New Testament set the course for the tenets of the Christian faith. Christian liturgies exist because Jesus Christ told people to do what he had done, in memory of him. The most detailed account of
the first sharing of the Eucharist is found in St. Paul’s First Epistle to the Corinthians, which predates the Gospels. St. Paul 1 Corinthians, Chapter 11, offers nearly verbatim the terminology used in today’s Apostolic liturgy. St. Paul’s words read: For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus, the same night in which He was betrayed, took bread, and giving thanks, broke, and said: Take ye, and eat: This is My Body, which shall be delivered for you: this do for the commemoration of Me. In like manner also the chalice, after He had supped, saying: This chalice is the new testament in My Blood: this do ye, as often as you shall drink, for the commemoration of Me. For as often as you shall eat this Bread, and drink the Chalice, you shall show the death of the
‘He is Risen!’ These are the words that rang out on the first Easter morning. These words ring out nearly 2,000 years later as Christians continue to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection from the dead. Jesus’ resurrection, and victory over death, stands at the center of the mysteries of our faith, making Easter the high point of the liturgical year. As a sign of hope, the
resurrection encourages us to move on in faith. May the risen Christ help us on this journey all the days of our lives! The members of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church extend to all of you a BLESSED EASTER! Rev. Greg Korenek Pastor
Lord, until He come. Jesus and his disciples gathered on the first day of Passover for the Last Supper. In addition to sharing food and wine, Jesus explained that one in their midst would betray Him and another would deny knowing Him. Jesus also explained to the disciples how the bread was a symbol of his body and would be broken for them. In addition, the wine was a symbol for his blood and would be poured out for their sins to be forgiven, indicates Bible Study Tools. Additional Christian traditions which emerged during the Last Supper include the washing of feet. Jesus washed his disciples’ feet as an example to be servants to all. From the Last Supper on, faithful Christians follow the guidance of Jesus Christ, and the Eucharist is the central component of masses within many Christian churches.
Keeping this feast renews repentance and people’s faith in Jesus’ blood and sacrifice. Easter is an opportunity to dive deeper into the Christian faith and the meanings behind the tenets of Christianity.
Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church MASS TIMES Saturday Vigil: 4:00 pm
SUNDAY:
7:30 am & 10:00 am
DAILY (MON-SAT): 8:00 am
Rev. Greg Korenek, Pastor
EASTER WORSHIP IN THE CROSSROADS - 21
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Make your own chocolate Easter bunnies The Easter bunny is a tradition that has been passed down for centuries. Symbolizing fertility and wealth, the Easter bunny became a holiday standard in Germany during the 16th century. The custom of chocolate eggs came along centuries after the Easter bunny, originating in the 19th century in France and Germany. As Easter celebrations evolved, chocolate eggs were not the only delicacy; chocolate Easter bunnies also were shared and enjoyed. While there are scores of massproduced chocolate bunnies available for purchase, and many local chocolatiers also make Easter bunnies and other sweet treats, families may want to try making their own chocolate Easter bunnies this year. This can be a family-friendly activity that favors togetherness with the promise of a sweet reward. 1. The first step to creating chocolate Easter bunnies is to select the type of chocolate you prefer. Bunnies can be made from white chocolate, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even a combination for a marbleized effect. Chocolate melts, chips or chocolate couverture are widely available at specialty chocolate and food shops or craft supply stores, according to DoItYourself.com. This simplifies the bunny-making process. Some retailers also may sell bunnymaking kits that pair the chocolate melts with the mold in one box for ultimate convenience.
2. Craft stores also have aisles devoted to culinary crafts. Browse to find an Easter bunny mold. Some may sell solid chocolate bunnies or hollow varieties. Choose molds in the desired size, as bunny molds may be large or small. 3. Follow directions to melt chocolate successfully. Some chocolates can be slowly melted in the microwave. A double-boiler method, in which the chocolate is melted in a bowl placed above a pan with boiling water, can help the chocolate melt consistently and prevent it from burning. 4. Pour the chocolate into the mold and gently tap the mold so that it displaces air bubbles and helps the chocolate settle evenly into the design. Allow the chocolate to set up in the refrigerator. If your mold is hollow, you can seal the two halves of the bunny with a little melted chocolate on the seam. Creativity can be unleashed when making homemade chocolate bunnies. Experiment with adding a few drops of peppermint oil or orange liqueur to customize the flavor. Before sealing hollow bunnies, place peanut butter or raspberry jam inside for a tasty surprise. Use colored candy melts to add colorful eyes or cheeks or to tint the inside of the bunny ears. For an even more festive effect, seal a lollipop stick in a chocolate bunny and use it to secure the Easter bunny to the top of a cake.
“He is not here! He is risen as He said!” Angels were the first to proclaim Christ’s resurrection, but they are not the AngelsGod’s were the first to proclaim Christ’s they areinnot thevictory last. God’sthat people last. people continue to resurrection, hear and bu rejoice the is continue ours to hear and rejoice in the victory that is ours through the death and resurrection of Jesus. in Christ, there through the death and resurrection of Jesus. In Christ, there is full and free is full and free forgiveness of all you sins! Join us on Easter Sunday, 7:00 A.M. & 10:00 A.M., in person, forgiveness of all your sins! Join us on Easter Sunday, 8 & 10am, in person or Facebook Live, and hear this Good News for yourself. Facebook Live, and hear this Good News for yourself. Zion Lutheran Church of Mission Valley 12183 FM 236 – Victoria TX 77905 Next to Mission//Valley School 361-578-5447 email:Elementary zlmv@ccwip.net www.facebook.com/ZionMissionValley
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EASTER BREAKFAST SERVED 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM
22 - EASTER WORSHIP IN THE CROSSROADS www.VictoriaAdvocate.com
Son-rise Service Bayside Community Church would like to welcome you to our Son Rise Service on Sunday, April 4, at Haiterus Park in Olivia. Everyone is welcome to come as you are for our service at 7 a.m. and to stay for doughnuts and coffee following service. We kindly ask that you bring your lawn chairs. If you would like more information on Bayside Community Church, please visit our website or stop by and visit us to see our recently renovated church. Our office is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Church services are at 9:45 a.m. Sundays and 6:30 p.m. every Wednesday.
Our “resource center”for our home school academy is open every Tuesday and Thursday with a certified teacher principal who volunteers their time to serve our community’s needs. We are currently hosting a “Starter Herd” raffle to benefit our building fund for future campus expansion plans. Each $100 ticket is good for one chance to win one Angus bull and three fancy black heifers. Only 250 tickets will be sold. Please call Pastor Ruben at 361-7814178 or Bridget Bailey at 361-7463702.The drawing for the starter herd raffle will be May 2. May God bless you!
B a y s id e C o m m u n it y C h u r c h SON RISE SERVICE Easter Sunday, April 4, 2021 7:00 am at Haiterus Park
Bay Front Sea Wall in Olivia, Texas hosted by
Worldy Troubleas
In John 16:33, Jesus told his disciples that “in this world (they) would have trouble.” Those same words are also spoken to us. And over the past several months we have certainly witnessed much trouble. The coronavirus has affected countless lives and likely will affect countless more. The difficulties don’t only affect people’s health, but it has also had financial and recreational impacts. Psalm 23 reminds us that each day we walk on this earth, we walk through the valley of the shadow of death. Jesus didn’t say these things to cause his disciples to fear and worry. In fact, it is quite the opposite. He said, “I have told you these things so that you may have peace in me ... I have overcome the world.” While there are many joys and pleasures, we might enjoy in this world, that is not where our true hope and life are
found. Jesus also said, “This world will pass away, but my word will never pass away!” (Matthew 24:35). As the Apostle John tells us, Jesus is the light and life of the world. (cf. John 1). The celebration of Easter reminds us that Jesus died and rose from the dead to give us eternal life in Him and with Him. And while that eternal life begins with the Holy Spirit granting faith, the fullness of what it is and will be is not known until our bodies also are raised from the dead and into the eternal glory prepared for us! Join us at Grace Lutheran, where every Sunday we celebrate the Easter Joy as we follow the Shepherd, Jesus Christ, through the valley of the shadow of death where even in the presence of our enemies, Jesus prepares a meal for us that we may indeed have peace!
Grace Lutheran REGULAR SCHEDULE Coffee & Sharing - 8:30 am Sunday Worship - 9:10 am Sunday School & Bible Classes - 10:30 am
Join Us for Easter Worship Maundy T hursday April 1st. • 7pm Good Friday April 2nd • 7pm Easter Sunrise Service • 7am
Bayside Community Church
Rev. Keith Aschenbeck
All are welcome! Bring your lawn chairs! Donuts and coffee served in the park after services.
(LCMS) Come Grow With Us 9806 NE Zac Lentz Pkwy 361-573-2232 www.gracelutheran-tx.org
25080 Hwy 172 Olivia, Texas 77979
EASTER WORSHIP IN THE CROSSROADS - 23
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from your friends at
About Easter
EASTER. All kinds of images surface when someone speaks this word: bunnies, eggs (of all kinds – hard-boiled, candy, cascarones, those pesky plastics things, and don’t forget those great big chocolate ones!), hiding those elusive eggs, fashion statements – again, of all kinds. So many images flash through our minds that we completely lose sight of the real image of Easter: a rude wooden cross stained with the blood of the Savior of the world. Now, I know it’s probably not politically correct to resurrect such an image (pun intended), but we don’t get anywhere important by watering down or trying to deny the truth. The truth is that Easter reminds the world that the GOD of all creation was the only One Who did the only thing that could be done to make possible authentic life, both here on earth and after our days on earth are over. Easter is the celebration of the GOD of creation coming to earth to take on the form of humankind in
every way except being without sin. This He did to assure His creation that He understands what it means to be human, so we could trust Him with His gift of freedom from the eternal consequences of sin and death. This special season invites and encourages us to take a deeper look at what Easter REALLY means, to clear away all the extraneous manmade images, and look Jesus the Christ full in the face. Ultimately, we will be glad we did. Holy Week and Easter services at John Wesley United Methodist Church: • Thursday, April 1 - Maundy Thursday Service @ 6p.m. • Friday, April 2 - Good Friday Service @ 6p.m. • Sunday, April 4 - Easter Sunday Worship Service @ 10:30a.m., with in-person worship as well as online worship at the same hour. Access www.jwumcvictoriatx.org for the posted service on our website and our Facebook page.
e Everyon ! Welcome
HE
IS
RISEN WORSHIP OUR SAVIOR
Palm Sunday - 10:30am: in-person and on-line Maundy Thursday: 6:00pm - in-person Good Friday - 6:00pm: in-person Easter Sunday - 10:30am in-person and on-line
John Wesley United Methodist Church 361-573-2722
8300 NE Zac Lentz Parkway www.jwumcvictoriatx.org
Victoria,TX.77904
24 - EASTER WORSHIP IN THE CROSSROADS www.VictoriaAdvocate.com
Our Lady of Victory Catholic School
Our Lady of Victory Catholic School, the parish school of The Cathedral of Our Lady of Victory, was founded in 1957. We are proud to have educated generations of successful alumni in the Crossroads. The school is accredited by the Texas Education Agency and the Texas Catholic Conference. We are guided by the TEA curriculum and allow our teachers to expand it to enrich our students’classroom experiences. In 2008, Our Lady of Victory Catholic School was recognized a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. We are proud of this tradition of academic excellence and exemplary teaching. Our Lady of Victory Catholic School’s mission is to build character through service, achieve academic excellence and honor Christ through our Catholic faith. We keep this at the heart of our school’s activities through daily religion classes, a challenging curriculum and an engaging campus ministry
program. Facilitating all of this is our committed, caring and qualified faculty and staff. Our faculty, who average over 20 years of experience, is the heartbeat of the school. At Our Lady of Victory, parents recognize the joy we bring to learning for all students. Students with various gifts, talents and cultures are able to flourish at Our Lady of Victory Catholic School. Our students display their talents through academic competitions, athletics, Mass and fine and performing arts. Each day we continue to develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills in our students as we seek to create life-long learners who succeed at every stage of their life. Choose Victory and let our school be a part of your family’s journey in building an educational foundation for your children rooted in strong values. To learn more or take a tour of our campus, call 361-575-5391 or visit our website at www.ourladyvictory.org.
REJOICE & BE GLAD
Easter blessings from our OLV Family to yours. yours
EASTER WORSHIP IN THE CROSSROADS - 25
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Mark 16:5-7 As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed. “Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. HE HAS RISEN! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.’ IN HIS SERVICE FIRST ENGLISH EV. LUTHERAN CHURCH 500 Block of N. Main (NALC-LCMC) Rev. Jim Pearson, Pastor 361-575-3623 www.felcvictoria.com
First English Ev. Lutheran Church HOLY WEEK SERVICES March 28th - Palm Sunday Worship with Holy Communion 8:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.
April 2nd - Good Friday 12:05 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
April 4th - EASTER SUNDAY Worship with Holy Communion 8:00a.m., 9:15a.m. 10:30a.m.
500 Block of N. Main (NALC-LCMC) Rev. Jim Pearson, Pastor 361-575-3623 www.felcvictoria.com
HE IS RISEN HE IS RISEN INDEED! ALLELUIA
26 - EASTER WORSHIP IN THE CROSSROADS www.VictoriaAdvocate.com
Easter: A time for families to rejoice On Easter Sunday, we celebrate a most important day for the entire human family: the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the World. While many scholars – secular and religious – have debated the life and ministry of Jesus, one point of debate that confounds many who do not believe is The Resurrection itself; the fact that Jesus rose from the dead. Many are puzzled by the fervor of the disciples, who ran into the streets proclaiming His Resurrection after His Crucifixion. EvenFlavious Josephus, a Jewish historian from the first century, testifies to Jesus being crucified and appearing to His followers on the third day. In a recent book titled “Zealot: The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth” scholar Reza Aslan proposes that Jesus was a Jewish zealot who rebelled against Rome, not a religious savior. However, he even acknowledges that the fervor of the
belief of Jesus’ disciples in His Resurrection is what led to this group growing into the largest religion in the world. So, how did this happen? How did a group of timid, persecuted disciples, end up planting the seeds for Christianity across the globe? The answer is simple: It really happened. That is what we celebrate this day, that Jesus Christ rose from the dead so we too can have eternal life and be with God forever. By conquering death, showing that death could not stop Him, he shows us that death cannot stop us. All we need to do is follow Him. We do this most fully as members of his Catholic Church, which contains the fullness of revelation, and a long tradition of countless saints who have gone before us such as St. Francis of Assisi, St. Patrick, St. Pope John Paul II and Our Lady of Guadalupe, the Blessed Virgin Mary.
The Office of Family Evangelization of the Diocese of Victoria is here to help you and your family in that pursuit of following Jesus. We offer dynamic resources – both in person and virtual – to help you learn about Jesus, follow Him, and meet others wanting to do the same. Our primary areas of support are men’s and women’s ministries, which you can find at www.victoriadiocese. org/men and www.victoriadiocese. org/women. We also have resources and programs for marriage preparation, accessible at www.victoriadiocese.org/marriage. This past year, we’ve launched ministries in the area of grief support and divorce support, accessible at https://www. victoriadiocese.org/family. We also recently welcomed a coordinator of Hispanic ministry to help Spanish-speaking members of our community.
The end goal of all we do is to support the 50 parishes and 17 missions across our diocese in helping you and your loved ones know the love of God and walk in His ways. Lastly, we have a busy and active presence on social media via our Facebook Page, YouTube channel, and “DOV Family Podcast” where we interview local leaders, as well as international leaders in areas of faith and family life. You can find our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or other apps you use to listen. To find our Facebook and YouTube presence, just search “Diocese of Victoria Family Evangelization.” So join us, in celebrating this day of Easter now and moving forward. As St. Pope John Paul II once said, “We are an Easter People and Alleluia is our song!” May we celebrate this day together now and forevermore, one day reuniting with Our Loving God in heaven.
Diocese of Victoria Office of Family Evangelization Supporting families in their walk with God MINISTRIES:
• Men • Women • Marriage
• Grief Support • Divorce Support
www.victoriadiocese.org/family
DIOCESE OF VICTORIA WOMEN’S GATHERING
SATURDAY 4/24/21 IN VICTORIA FATHER CEDRIC PISEGNA, CP
BISHOP BRENDAN CAHILL
8AM 4:30 PM
SPEAKER JANICE CARLETON
TICKETS: WWW.VICTORIADIOCESE.ORG/ARISE DDV Family Podcast
JREYES@VICTORIADIOCESE.ORG 361-573-0828 X 2265
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Eggs are eggceptional Courtesy of Metro Eggs are a topic of conversation each spring, largely because of their relationship to the Christian celebration of Easter. Brightly colored Easter eggs are on display, chocolate eggs line store shelves and egg-lined birds’ nests in trees and bushes dot spring landscapes. Eggs take center stage in early spring, but they’re more than just novelties to include in Easter celebrations.
Eggs are nutritious
Eggs are loaded with vitamins A, D and B12 and the nutrient choline. They’re also an excellent protein source in a small package. At 72 calories and packing 6 grams of protein, eggs can make for a great, filling meal at any time of day.
that laid the egg. Red-feathered hens tend to lay brown eggs, while hens with white features lay white eggs. Similarly, the shade of yolk is representative of what the chicken is eating. A dark, yellow yolk means the hen was probably fed green vegetables. Lighter yolks coordinate to corn and grain diets.
All eggs are ‘hormone-free’
The term ‘hormone-free’ on egg cartons does not signify anything special. It’s like advertising that snow is cold. The United States Food & Drug Administration banned the use of hormones in all poultry production in the 1950s. All eggs are hormone-free.
Size and eggshell thickness indicates the age of the hen
Eggs boost brain health
Eggs come in different sizes, such as medium, large and jumbo. The age of the chicken determines the size, with older hens producing larger eggs. Age also affects shell thickness, with younger hens laying thickershelled eggs, says Eat This, Not That!
Eggs don’t always have to be refrigerated
Eggs sold for consumption are not fertilized. Hens that have laid them haven’t mated.
The choline in eggs is a crucial nutrient for memory, mood and muscle control, according to the University of Missouri Health Care system. Choline also is essential in fetal brain development and can help prevent birth defects.
In countries outside of the United States and Canada, eggs may not be refrigerated and do not have to be chilled. Also, outside of North America eggs are not washed prior to commercial production. However, according to the food resource The Kichn, power-washing eggs removes a protective coating and makes the eggs porous and vulnerable to contamination. A synthetic coating is put on washed eggs.
Shell color does not matter
The color of the eggshell doesn’t indicate taste, nutritional value or even egg quality. The color of the eggshell reflects the breed of hen
Eggs won’t hatch
Many birds lay eggs
Kiwis lay the largest egg in relation to their body size of any species of bird in the world. However, the ostrich, emu and cassowary lay the biggest eggs.
The sink or swim test can say a lot about an egg
Eggs become more porous as they age. You can tell if an egg is old by putting it in a glass of water. If it sinks, it is fresh. If it floats, it is an older egg. Eggs get a lot of fanfare around Easter, and there’s more than meets the eye to that carton of eggs in the refrigerator.
Victoria's Bible Book Store Open Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm
303 E Airline Suite 1 - Victoria 361-648-5832
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF POINT COMFORT 201 Jones St. 361-987-2710
April 4th Easter-Resurrection Worship at 11:00 a.m. with Communion
using sealed wafer-cup. Families sit 8 or 10 feet apart with mask until seated. Bible Study at 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. John R. Fisher, Pastor, Navy Vet. • Chaplain Post 167
“Greatest Event in History is The Resurrection of Jesus Christ” We must obey the Lord who was resurrected and give the resurrection message to all people, anywhere, anytime. U.S. Constitution gives this God given right. God’s resurrection power is with us.
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Easter centerpiece ideas to beautify the table Courtesy of Metro
Easter is a springtime holiday that marks a prime opportunity to cast off the remnants of winter weather and dress a home in bright, colorful hues. Come Easter, tulips and daffodils may be sprouting, lilies are on display in churches and many other spring touches are incorporated into home decor. Celebrants who will be hosting their families or more intimate Easter gatherings can extend the eye-catching improvements to the dining table. Easter centerpieces are a prime way to add color and ambiance to interior designs. Here’s a look at various ways to decorate the table for Easter celebrations. • Carrot-filled container: Embrace an Easter bunny theme by hanging a bundle of carrots
inside a glass vase or bowl and topping with orange, yellow and other spring-themed flowers and greenery. • Pussy willow basket: Weave pussy willow stems into a basket shape or braid them together to make a ring. Then fill with colored Easter eggs or flower petals. • Nested flowers: Purchase a wooden or wicker basket and weave or glue small twigs onto it. This will give it the look of a natural bird’s nest, which is one of the markers of the spring season. The nest can cradle spring blooms, such as tulips, or hold Easter eggs. • Easter bunny garden: Fill a shallow ceramic bowl with floral design moss or another
green filler. Place a gold-foil chocolate bunny or a ceramic rabbit in the center and put small tealight candles and a small glass canister of pastelcolored candy eggs to complete the picture. • Take a ‘peep’: Marshmallow Peeps are an Easter staple and they can have a place outside of Easter baskets. Line a small vase with Peeps. Place cut flowers inside for a festive centerpiece. • Rainy day decor: April showers bring May flowers. Put that sentiment on display by purchasing an inexpensive pair of brightly colored rubber rain boots. Place cut fresh tulips into narrow glass vases and then slip the vases inside of the boots for a festive and funny table conversation piece.
• Floating flowers: Poke the stem of a flower into a square of bubble wrap. Place into a small fishbowl filled with water and watch the flowers float on top. Tint the water a pastel hue if desired. • Painted pinecone bouquet: If you have pine cones left over from Christmas decorations or a pile that the kids may have collected from the yard, paint them in bright colors for an Easter makeover. Place in the container of your choice and add some faux or real greenery to complete the bouquet picture. Dining tables can be incorporated into Easter decor. There are many different creative options for crafting centerpieces guests will adore.
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Palm Sunday, Holy Week, and Easter at First United Methodist First United Methodist Church kicks off Holy Week with a Palm Sunday worship service at Ethel Lee Tracy Park Amphitheater at 11 a.m. The United Methodist Men will provide burgers after worship in the park. Ethel Lee Tracy Park is located off Placido Benavides Drive behind Home Depot. Palm Sunday marks Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem as we wave palm branches with cheers of, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” Everyone is welcome to join us for worship, food, and fellowship.
From Palm Sunday, we enter Holy Week; the week leading up to the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Holy Week services at First United Methodist Church will include a service at 6 p.m. Thursday in the sanctuary recalling the events of the Last Supper with the celebration of the sacrament of Holy Communion. The Good Friday service will also begin at 6 p.m. This service that commemorates the crucifixion of our savior will begin in our IGNITE Contemporary Worship space and then we will journey together to the sanctuary for a service of Tenebrae.
COME JOIN US FOR EASTER SUNDAY APRIL 4TH Maundy Thursday: Good Friday Service: 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. p.m. Three Services Easter Morning: 8:30 a.m., 10:40 a.m., &11:00 a.m. First United Methodist Church is located at 407 N. Bridge Street in downtown Victoria. If you are unable to attend in-person, check out the Facebook page for livestreaming opportunities. For more information, go to www.fumcvictoria.com.
Happy Easter! Dr. Wade Powell of First United Methodist Church in Victoria
Tenebrae is a service of “darkness” set in candlelight. As we read the scriptures leading up to the crucifixion, a candle will be extinguished after each reading. The beauty and gravity of the Good Friday service prepares us for the true joy of Easter’s resurrection. And, of course, Easter Sunday is a wonderfully exciting celebration of the resurrection of Christ. There will be three services on Easter morning. Two traditional Easter services will be in the sanctuary at 8:30a.m. and 10:40a.m. The traditional services include favorite hymns, choir and special music,
as well as scripture readings and an Easter message. A contemporary service will be at 11a.m. in the IGNITE Contemporary worship space. IGNITE worship includes contemporary Christian music by the IGNITE praise band, scripture, and an Easter message. First United Methodist Church is at 407 N. Bridge St. in downtown Victoria. If you are unable to attend in-person, check out the Facebook page for livestreaming opportunities. For more information, go to www.fumcvictoria.com.
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Why Should I Believe Jesus is God? JIM GRAFF Lead Pastor Faith Family Church
A while back, a man approached me with a question regarding his faith that he had had on his heart for years. As he began to ask it, I braced myself, just hoping I would have the right answer. “OK, here it is,” he finally said. “Why can a priest not marry but you can?” I couldn’t help but chuckle as I sighed in relief. “Well,” I answered. “In my church, we believe it’s harder to live with a woman than without one.” I joked. I left that conversation thinking that as funny of a question as it seemed, I still admired that man for being willing to ask why. The truth is as a child, why was
our favorite question. So, when did many of us stop asking it? And when did we stop seeking out the answers? There’s one question in particular I wish more people would diligently seek out the answer to. It’s this – “Why should I believe Jesus is God?” See, Jesus doesn’t want us to simply celebrate him. He also wants us to consecrate ourselves to him. And that consecration only comes with the reverence we gain for him when we truly discover why. So, let’s look at this together today. And as we do, let’s turn both to Scripture and to history for our answer. The first reason we should believe that Jesus is God is that he claimed to be the Jewish Messiah,
and he had substantial proof to back up that claim. Jesus made this profession in Luke 4:21, when he returned to his home-town to preach. After reading a prophecy from Scripture about the Messiah, he simply stated, “Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” Now, those who heard him that day were actually pretty mad. But if they’d thought about what he had said a little more deeply, they might not have reacted that way. Here are the facts. In Scripture, there are 60 prophecies about the Messiah that contain over 300 specific descriptions of his life. The mathematical probability that Jesus could have fulfilled only eight of those is one in one hundred quadrillion. And according to history,
He fulfilled allof them. That is pretty good proof to me. The second reason we should believe is that Jesus left us with no guessing room. He stated who he was clearly in John 8:23-24, when he said: “You are from below; I am from above…if you do not believe that I am he, you will die in your sins.” Peter backed this up in Acts 4:12 when he wrote, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind in which we must be saved.” As we approach Easter, I hope you will be reminded of why we celebrate the season. And if you have questions? I hope you will seek them out. Because a life consecrated to Jesus is better than anything else you could ever experience.
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