Texas Catholic Herald - May 25, 2021

MAY 25, 2021 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

texas catholic herald

INVITING ALL TO BECOME ONE IN CHRIST

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Daniel Cardinal DiNardo announced updates to the pandemic protocols for liturgical celebrations and parish gatherings in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston ▪ SEE PAGE 3

Proclaiming the Good News to the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston since 1964

MAY 25, 2021

VOL. 58, NO. 2

VOCATIONS

SHARING THE GOSPEL MESSAGE OF HOPE

Four new priests ready for June 5 ordination

BY JO ANN ZUÑIGA Texas Catholic Herald HOUSTON — Four young deacons to be ordained as priests June 5 in Houston are as diverse as a seminarian studying in Italy and a Nigerian-American whose immigrant father named him after this city.

Although they experienced different “Ah-ha!” moments when they realized their calling, they all said God’s love is in their hearts to share with others.

“My dad actually named me ‘Houston,’ after the city that adopted him,” said Deacon Houston Okonma. “After arriving to the city and country in 1982, he was so impressed with the industrious nature of the city and wanted his first son to be just See PRIESTHOOD, page 4

PHOTOS BY JONAH DYCUS/HERALD AND MICHELLE EISTERHOLD

Bishop-Elect Italo Dell’Oro speaks during a press conference about his appointment as the Archdiocese’s new auxiliary bishop in Houston on May 18, while (left to right) Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, Archbishop Emeritus Joseph A. Fiorenza and Auxiliary Bishop George A. Sheltz look on. Appointed an auxiliary bishop of Galveston-Houston by Pope Francis on May 18, Bishop-Elect Dell’Oro said he looks forward to continuing to bring a message and presence of hope of the Gospel to the people of the Archdiocese.

Galveston-Houston: Meet your new Bishop-elect

HOUSTON — A priest for almost 40 years — 30 of those in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston — Father Italo Dell’Oro, C.R.S. was named auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese by Pope Francis May 18.

Originally from the Lake Como area of Italy, Bishop-elect Dell’Oro thanked the Holy Father and Daniel Cardinal DiNardo during a May 18 press conference. Bishop-elect Dell’Oro said he was humbled by the appointment as auxiliary bishop.

“I did not think I would get emotional. That’s not in the script,” he said to chuckles from a media conference crowd that also included

Cardinal DiNardo, Archbishop Emeritus Joseph A. Fiorenza, Auxiliary Bishop George A. Sheltz and his Somascan brother priests.

First appointed pastor at Assumption Catholic Church off I-45 North and W. Little York in 1992, Bishop-elect Dell’Oro witnessed parishes transition from Polish, Czech and Italian heritage to an increasing Hispanic population.

“I feel fortunate and blessed to be ministering in such a wonderful and beautiful reality,” said the trilingual speaker of English, Spanish and Italian.

Bishop-elect Dell’Oro said he See BISHOP-ELECT, page 2

THE FIRST WORD † 3

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Fueled by compassion, Aging Ministry steps up in pandemic for older generations

BY KERRY MCGUIRE Herald Correspondent

Pope Francis names Father Italo Dell’Oro, C.R.S. as new auxiliary bishop for Archdiocese Texas Catholic Herald

MINISTRIES

Bishop-Elect Dell’Oro anoints the head of a confirmation candidate during a celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation. He said he was humbled by his appointment as Galveston-Houston’s newest auxiliary bishop.

COLUMNISTS † 10 - 12

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ESPAÑOL † 15 |

HOUSTON — While the challenges of caregiving and maintaining healthy relationships with older adults have significantly increased since COVID-19, the Office of Aging Ministry continues to compassionately serve as the primary aging resource within the Archdiocese, providing consultation to and resources for its offices, parishes, families and senior groups.

According to Kathy Bingham, director of the Office of Aging, the ministry is evolving and expanding to adjust with and respond to the needs of aging adults, especially as they emerge from the effects of the pandemic.

“Being isolated and separated from their faith communities has been difficult, and many elders still do not

MILESTONES † 16

See AGING, page 6

2 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • MAY 25, 2021

MEET GALVESTON-HOUSTON’S NEW BISHOP-ELECT

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saw that diversity also reflected in the At left, Father Italo Dell’Oro, vicar for clergy of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, elevates the priesthood he encountered daily as vicar Eucharistic during a confirmation Mass at St. Edward Catholic Church in Spring in 2020. Above, Father for clergy.

Dell’Oro lays his hands on Father Paul Foltyn during a Mass of Ordination to the Priesthood in 2018. Pope Cardinal DiNardo said, “In all of his Francis appointed Father Dell’Oro as an auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese on May 18. years in Galveston-Houston, Bishop-elect Dell’Oro has been a genuine, pastoral in priestly ministry in 2005. I love the priest, great preacher and spiritual presence to the many people and cultures priesthood, and I joyfully accepted director, who formed several young men of our great region, along with being a that particular ministry,” Bishop-elect and women to priesthood, consecrated mindful ambassador to the wonderful Dell’Oro said. life and marriage,” Bishop-elect Dell’Oro religious orders and communities in the “Since 2006, I have been serving said of Father Luigi Stucchi, who became area.” the local Church under the leadership an auxiliary bishop in Milan.

The Somascan Fathers, officially of Cardinal DiNardo, to whom I am He said another good friend urged him recognized as Clerics Regular of Somasca immensely grateful,” he said. “I have to make a decision about his vocation.

C.R.S., began in 1568 when St. Jerome observed his clarity of mind and his “He was with the Somascan Fathers.

Emiliani began serving the poor and pastoral approach to our brother priests.” Well, in the end, I knocked at that door, taking care of orphans and abandoned He said he always felt that Archbishop and it opened,” he said. “I certainly intend youth.

Fiorenza was his mentor, alongside to continue to learn from many, but also The Somascan Fathers were called Cardinal DiNardo and Bishop Sheltz, to get back to work in order to serve this to Houston in 1989. A commending him as “a Archdiocese — my Archdiocese — at the few years later, in 1992, man of integrity” and best of my capacities.”

Archbishop Emeritus an example of “humble Just weeks ahead of the Pentecost Joseph A. Fiorenza service.” feast, he invoked the Holy Spirit to lead would invite the future He also gave thanks and guide his heart, mind and whole Bishop-elect Dell’Oro to to his roots. “I owe who being as auxiliary bishop. his first Christmas meal I am to my blood family “Eventually, Pope Francis heard in Houston.

— my deceased parents my name and made this decision,” he In 2001, he served as and my two sisters and said. “Truly confused and humble, I director of vocations for friends back home; and my look forward to serve the Church in the Somascan Fathers in mountains as well,” he said. communion with her bishop and Pope Houston before taking Before coming to the Francis.” on the role of formation flatlands of Houston, Bishop-elect Dell’Oro said he hoped to director in 2014. From Bishop-elect Dell’Oro continue to share a message and presence 2005 to 2012, he also was an avid rock-climber of hope to those in the Archdiocese, worked as director of the and mountaineer during especially to the Hispanic and Latino BISHOP-ELECT ministry to priests for his teen years and young communities, among the fastest growing ITALO DELL’ORO Galveston-Houston. adulthood. Now turning in the nation.

The Bishop-elect had 68 on June 20, he first “The main message that we have ... recently served as vicar general in 2021 thought of the possibility of becoming a is the message of hope,” he said. “I’m and, since 2015, served as vicar for clergy priest when he was 15, but his “vocational absolutely convinced that what we and the secretariat director for Clergy restlessness” finally grew to the point proclaim is the good news.”

Formation and Chaplaincy Services. where he had to follow his calling.

Officials said plans for BishopBy 2005, the Bishop-elect was He credited a young priest who came elect Dell’Oro’s ordination date were appointed to Archdiocesan director of to his home parish when Bishop-elect being finalized. A recording of the Ministry to Priests. was only in eighth grade. announcement is on the Archdiocese’s “Archbishop Fiorenza involved me “A holy, intelligent and charismatic website at archgh.org/live. †

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MAY 25, 2021 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

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THE FIRST WORD WALKING ACCORDING TO THE TRUTH OF THE LORD

HEALTH UPDATES Archdiocese adapts current COVID-19 health protocols

PHOTOS BY OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS AND APRIL LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY

HOUSTON — In a May 19 letter to the faithful, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo announced new modifications to the COVID-19 health protocols regarding Liturgical celebrations and parish gatherings in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston.

At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Cardinal DiNardo modified liturgical celebrations and non-liturgical parish gatherings within the Archdiocese to “prevent these gatherings from becoming sources of community spread for the virus,” he said in the letter. “These modifications were aimed at the common good of all who live within our communities. The local pandemic situation is greatly improved.”

Beginning May 22, social distancing is no longer required during liturgical celebrations, and parish churches and chapels may be filled to 100% of the building’s occupancy load, according to the letter.

Masks and face coverings will also not be required, but they are encouraged, the letter said.

Also starting May 22, the temporary suspension of receiving Holy Communion on the tongue is removed. Holy Communion may be received on the tongue, or in the hand, at the communicant’s discretion. However, the temporary suspension of receiving Holy Communion under the appearance of wine from a common chalice remains in effect until further notice.

The general dispensation from the Sunday obligation still remains in effect for all Catholics within the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston.

To read the Cardinal DiNardo’s full letter to the faithful, visit www.archgh.org/healthupdates. †

With many friends and family to witness, Deacon Luis Garcia, Deacon Jacob Ramirez and Deacon Christopher Meyer were ordained to the transitional diaconate by Daniel Cardinal DiNardo at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart May 15. They are now in their final year at St. Mary’s Seminary before their ordination to the priesthood.

Trio ordained to the transitional diaconate HOUSTON — The Mass of Ordination of Transitional Deacons, held Saturday, May 15 at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, brought three men to the next step in their journey to the priesthood.

Deacons Luis Miguel Garcia, Christopher Paul Meyer and Jacob Phillip Ramirez were ordained to the Sacred Order of the Diaconate through the imposition of hands and the invocation of the Holy Spirit by Daniel Cardinal DiNardo. The tradition of laying of the hands has been handed down from the apostles, so that through sacramental grace they DEACON DEACON DEACON may effectively fulfill their ministry.

CHRISTOPHER JACOB LUIS In his homily, Cardinal DiNardo said, “You will MEYER RAMIREZ GARCIA indeed be at the altar. As ministers of the altar you will proclaim the Gospel, distribute the Lord’s Body and Blood.”

Cardinal DiNardo said it will the deacons’ duty at the bishop’s direction to exhort believers and unbelievers alike and to instruct them in holy teaching. “You will preside over public prayer, and of course that means... you will have to become pretty good at praying on your own,” he said.

Their ordination as transitional deacons is one of their final steps before being ordained to the priesthood. †

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PASTORAL APPOINTMENTS Effective July 1 Father Ruben Campbell, CC Pastor — Queen of Peace Effective July 5 Father Miguel Perez, CC Parochial Vicar — Queen of Peace Effective August 1 Father Joseph Liem Tran, OP Parochial Vicar — Our Lady of Lavang Father Peter Khanh Duy Pham, OP Parochial Vicar — Our Lady of Lourdes , Houston

IN BRIEF DSF annual appeal to support Archdiocesan ministries continues HOUSTON — This year, the theme of the annual Diocesan Services Fund (DSF) appeal is “Walk in the Light of Christ.” The annual campaign to support more than 60 Archdiocese-wide ministries is under way and the local Church is asking parishioners to continue their generous giving to DSF. The fund supports a variety of ministries, such as those forming youth in Catholic faith; providing support and preparation for clergy; teaching, evangelizing, worshipping, and outreach to the incarcerated, aging, poor and sick; and programming to strengthen Christian families, among many others.

A full list of the ministries supported can be found at www.archgh.org/dsf. The Archdiocese counts on DSF funds to help meet the needs of people struggling throughout our region.

To pledge online, visit www.archgh.org/dsf. For more information about DSF and the ministries it supports, call 713-652-4417. †

4 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

LOCAL

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • MAY 25, 2021

CREATING A PLAN WITH DIGNITY

The planning process starts with acknowledging mortality and limitations as humans. ▪ SEE PAGE 12

Choosing to be a ‘witness’ of God’s love and mercy PRIESTHOOD, from page 1 as big and great.”

“I was born in Houston, Texas, and raised right here. Both of my parents are immigrants of Nigeria,” he said.

But that industriousness meant for him to be financially successful, according to his family plan, so they were “very hesitant” about Deacon Okonma becoming a priest, he said.

“As the first son of a NigerianAmerican household, the priesthood was not the prime ‘career’ choice. In overcoming this notion, my family saw how serious and committed I was to serve the same God we praise,” Deacon Okonma explained.

Deacon Joseph White, currently studying at the Pontifical North American College in Rome, said, “My ordination actually falls on my birthday and in the middle of my finals, so I will be studying up to my ordination and even after my ordination. I pray the grace of ordination,

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DEACON CHAD HENRY

DEACON HOANG ‘WAYNE’ LY

amongst other things, helps me with my exams.”

He is studying for a degree in moral theology, which would allow White to teach theology at the master’s level. He describes growing up “in a very devout family, and the idea of preaching about Jesus was present to me throughout my childhood.”

Deacon White added, “In fact, I would

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in both English and Spanish,” Deacon Henry said.

Deacon Hoang “Wayne” Ly was 21 when he attended a Life Teen Mass, and DEACON DEACON JOSEPH the homily seemed out of touch with the HOUSTON OKONMA WHITE young audience, making him think that he could bring the Word of God alive to often preach homilies in the shower as youth. early as five years old!”

“It still took about five years later for But Deacon Chad Henry, although a me to take the leap of faith and enter the “cradle Catholic,” said he did not think seminary,” he said. about becoming a priest until his senior The main catalyst in Deacon Ly’s year in high school, where spiritual journey was his he was also an active athlete home parish at Christ the playing both baseball and Incarnate Word.

MEET OUR football at Stephen F. Austin “The parish introduced UPCOMING High School in Sugar Land. me to Jesus, taught me “As I was at my about the Catholic faith, and PRIESTS Confirmation rehearsal at helped me discern toward the Sacred Heart in Richmond, I priesthood,” he credited. saw our pastor simply sitting The COVID-19 pandemic in one of the pews and at that and social isolation forced the moment, for the first time seminarians to spend more in my life, I felt a desire to be a parish time on the St. Mary campus and in the priest,” Deacon Henry said. dorms. While studying alone and having He ended up entering St. Mary classes online were difficult for most, the Seminary for the Archdiocese in the fall quiet time also helped them focus more of 2012 upon graduating high school and on prayer and reflection, they said. has spent nine years in formation.

But Deacon Ly and the other deacons “As a deacon this past year, I had the said they know they are blessed in their opportunity to baptize my nephew, which lives. was pretty awesome. I was also assigned “I know that people are hungry for to Resurrection Church in Denver God, and I want to be that witness of Harbor, having the opportunity to preach God’s love and mercy!” he said. †

A Prayer for Vocations

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Gracious and loving God, we thank your for the gift of our priests. Through them, we experience your presence in the sacraments. Help our priests to be strong in their vocation. Set their souls on fire with love for your people. Grant them the wisdom, understanding, and strength they need to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. Inspire them with the vision of your Kingdom.

Give them the words they need to spread the Gospel.

PHOTO BY JOSH APPLEGATE Allow them to experience joy in their ministry. Help them to become instruments of your divine grace.We ask this through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns as our Eternal Priest. Amen.

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MAY 25, 2021 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

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Helping formerly incarcerated women successfully re-enter the community

BY JO ANN ZUÑIGA Texas Catholic Herald HOUSTON — Speaking on a national webinar on May 12, the founder of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston’s program, Angela House, outlined what is needed most to help imprisoned women successfully transition back to their community and families.

“These are really just human beings and not evil-doers,” said Sister Maureen O’Connell, OP, a social worker by training who also spent 13 years as a Chicago police officer and chaplain.

On the recent Catholic Prison Ministries Coalition webinar, she explained how other dioceses and community groups can provide similar guidance for the women, 85% who have experienced physical and/or sexual abuse in their lives.

“It all started for me when I was a volunteer chaplain in Gatesville (women’s prison) and realized that the women who had been incarcerated two or three times basically needed a safe place to live when they left prison to get away from negative people, places and things,” Sister O’Connell said.

Since 2002, she developed a program of interventions focused on traumainformed counseling, addiction recovery,

employment readiness and personal and spiritual growth, including residential living at Angela House in southeast Houston, free for women recently released from incarceration.

Now director of the Archdiocese’s Secretariat for Social Concerns, Sister O’Connell introduced both Sarah Mabry, a former inmate who is now a licensed dependency counselor and case manager at Angela House, and Teresa Doyle, the program psychotherapist.

“With just last week being Mother’s Day, many in society don’t have patience with women who get in trouble and disconnect from family. But they need to heal first from physical and sexual abuse and deal with self-medicating substance abuse and mental health issues,” Doyle said.

“The kids may be happy to see her at first, but they’ve learned to survive without her, so the client may come back saying, ‘they were mean to me and didn’t listen to me.’

So we try to help them learn how to be a different kind of parent than in the past,” she said.

Case manager Mabry shared, “I was a former client at Angela House seven and a half years ago. I got into drugs and alcohol at 16 and wound up in prison by 19. By 2012, I lost my business, was homeless and addicted. By 2013, I was

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“Shame is a huge reason for relapse, but we give women back the ability to hope and have gratitude,” Mabry said.

The next national Catholic Prison Ministries Coalition webinar on June 9 will feature Franchelle Lee of the Archdiocese’s Special Youth Services, which counsels boys and girls incarcerated in the juvenile detention centers in Harris County and surrounding counties. The webinar will also feature a representative from the Archdiocese of Seattle.

For more information on Angela House, including videos and how to donate or volunteer, go to angelahouse. org. †

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She testified that the program is different from many others Mabry tried.

The personal and multi-prong approach “saved my life, and I wanted to help others like I had been helped.”

So, in 2016, she went back to school to become a licensed counselor and ended up on the Dean’s List with a 3.86 GPA.

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When others step out of life, Aging Ministry steps in AGING, from page 1 feel safe leaving home to attend Mass or find themselves being a caregiver to a homebound spouse or family member,” said Bingham. “Lingering grief will certainly be a result of this pandemic; seniors have passed away — some from COVID-19 — and their normal ritual of Liturgy and burial were altered. Families, friends could not attend or reach out to offer comfort.”

Bingham said the ministry has been challenged to pivot quickly to find effective ways to maintain communication with those it serves without the ability to meet in person.

“In addition to personal phone calls, we immediately began a weekly e-mail alert to the leaders of our parish senior groups that included a prayer reflection and a community resource for services, which parish leaders then forwarded the information to their club members,” said Bingham. “We continue to publish

“The Office of Aging is a place that I trust, where people young and old are treated with respect and given information that can be life-altering.”

VERNA PATOUT

BABY BOOMER GENERATION AND RETIREE

our quarterly newsletter with spiritual and educational resources, as well as a Facebook page to provide similar resource information to a broader aging community. We increased the resource materials on our webpage also to include information and support on caregiving, aging in place, and end-of-life planning.”

Bingham said the Office of Aging

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SEE RELATED STORY

PAGE 12 • OFFICE OF AGING ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR MARK CIESIELSKI SHARES WHAT TO DO WHEN ANSWERING TOUGH QUESTIONS also recognizes that the Baby Boomer generation is encountering issues and questions about healthcare, Medicare, Social Security, housing, and End-of-Life planning as they approach a voluntary or forced retirement.

At the same time, they often are caring for aging parents. She said knowing they can reach out to the Church for trustworthy information and guidance is helpful.

“Prior to the pandemic, our office worked in collaboration with our parish leaders on these aging and retirement issues,” said Bingham. “Unable to host live events, the past year was filled with virtual learning and prayer opportunities and numerous e-mail and phone consultations, including calls from clergy looking for assistance for a frail member of their community. We continue to offer active referrals, support and consultation for older adults, family members and staff on Medicare benefits, caregiver support, home care assistance, hospice care, access to the vaccine and affordable housing options.”

Verna Patout, a Baby Boomer and retiree of the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston, reached out to the Office of Aging as she began exploring her plans for retirement.

She said from her personal experience, the Office of Aging is one of the most important ministries in the Archdiocese.

“The Office of Aging is a place that I trust, where people young and old are treated with respect and given information that can be life-altering,” said Patout. “Making a wrong decision about your future or missing a deadline required by the government can have repercussions that follow you literally for the rest of your life. If there is any wisdom or advice that I could impart to people, it would be that it is never too early to make connections with the Office of Aging.”

Patout said obtaining information for an elderly person that is overwhelmed by the process is an act of compassion and a learning experience for the caretaker for their own future needs.

“With a growing population of people living longer, this ministry not only deals with imparting knowledge to navigate government systems, but also information about other resources that are needed by the elderly,” said Patout. “Kathy and

The Office of Aging Ministry is supported by the Diocesan Services Fund. The 2021 DSF theme draws from a hope: “Walk in the Light of Christ.”

DSF operates in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston each year to help the Church carry out the ministries of teaching and sanctifying. Of the 60-plus programs under its umbrella, DSF brings the needed financial resources to carry out these ministries.

her staff will compassionately talk with you about the issues of aging, including how to help an aging parent with health issues, Dementia, Alzheimer’s, and nursing homes. Having someone that is knowledgeable, takes time to listen, and helps process these issues is wonderful.”

The Office of Aging Ministry is one of 60 ministries supported by the 2021 Diocesan Services Fund (DSF).

The ministry depends on these funds to continue providing the number and variety of programs and services offered to seniors and their caregivers in the Archdiocese, which covers 10 counties: Austin, Brazoria, Fort Bend, Galveston, Grimes, Harris, Montgomery, San Jacinto, Walker and Waller.

“Our reach is extensive — approximately 120 parishes with active senior adult groups utilize our services and programs in the Archdiocese, so the DSF is essential to our staffing and program operations,” said Bingham. “With limited staff, it is important for donors to know that all the senior group activity at the parish level is led by volunteers who receive training, information, resources and support from the office. We could not continue to serve older adults, caregivers and retiring adults without support from DSF.” To learn more about the Office of Aging Ministry and the DSF, visit archgh. org/aging. †

DIOCESAN SERVICES FUND 2021

Support St. Mary’s by giving to your parish offertory on the Feast of Corpus Christi, June 5-6, 2021 The offertory this weekend benefits St. Mary’s Seminary You may also donate directly at archgh.org/supportstmarys

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Email story ideas to TCH@ARCHGH.ORG for possible inclusion in an upcoming issue.

For information on what to submit and issue deadline dates, visit the website at WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/SUBMISSIONS.

MAY 25, 2021 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

YOUNG ADULTS JOIN FOR ‘THE JESUS RETREAT’

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE OFFICE OF YOUNG ADULT AND CAMPUS MINISTRY

HOUSTON — On April 23 to 25, 35 young adults came together at Circle Lake Retreat Center for the Charis Jesus Retreat.

Charis Retreats are designed as an introduction to Ignatian Spirituality. The Office for Young Adult and Campus Ministry offers two retreats each year, one in English and one in Spanish. This year’s English retreat was called The Jesus Retreat.

The Charis Retreat is led by young adults for young adults. The team of seven helped to prepare talks, moments of prayer and logistics. In addition to talks, individual reflection and small group time, the retreat also offered the opportunity to participate in spiritual direction with five spiritual directors who came for the weekend.

The Spanish Charis Retreat will be offered in June.

For more information, contact the Office of Young Adult and Campus Ministry at yacm@ archgh.org or www.archgh.org/yacm. †

OBITUARIES Elizabeth de la Cruz

PHILIPPINES — Elizabeth de la Cruz, mother of Father Ronnie de la Cruz, hospital chaplain in The Woodlands and Conroe area, died April 22 in the Philippines. She was 81 years old.

Services were held in the Philippines. †

texas catholic herald

IN MEMORIAM Pray for the following priests whose anniversaries of death are during the month of June.

June 1911 Rev. A. Maury June 1, 1949 Rev. James P. McCarthy June 1, 1974 Rev. William Creamer, OCarm June 2, 1999 Rev. Norbert Reuss, CSB June 2, 2005 Rev. Kevin C. Thissen, OP June 2, 2014 Rev. Rivers Patout June 4, 1920 Rev. Joseph Ignatius Klein June 4, 1950 Rev. Lawrence B. Kramer June 6, 1957 Rev. Hugh Kearns June 7, 1947 Rev. J.T. Moriarty June 7, 1982 Rev. James L. Moore June 8, 1972 Msgr. Thomas J. Prendergast June 9, 1952 Rev. Francis A. Walsh, CSB June 9, 1988 Rev. James J. White, CSSp June 10, 1959 Rev. Ralph J. Diefenbach June 11, 1964 Rev. Dunstan McGuigan, OCarm June 11, 1979 Rev. Bernard J. O’Neill June 12, 1985 Rev. Richard Gieselman, CM June 12, 2011 Rev. Gabriel Camilo Morales, m.j.

June 13, 1938 Rev. John J. Lyons, SSJ June 14, 1964 Rev. Francis Plavcan, MS June 14, 1982 Rev. Mark M. Barron, OP June 14, 1993 Rev. James E. Daley, CSB

June 15, 1938 Rev. David M. Ortez June 16, 1989 Rev. Robert Hall, CSB June 16, 2009 Rev. Victor B. Brezik, CSB June 16, 2016 Rev. Patrick Braden, CSB June 17, 1936 Rev. Martin F. Collins June 18, 1999 Rev. Larry Leonard, CM June 20, 1977 Rev. Louis Hahn, SJ June 20, 1991 Rev. Paul F. Kent, OCSO June 21, 1892 Rev. Claude Jacquet June 22, 2003 Rev. Charles Banet, CPPS June 23, 1939 Rev. George Apel June 23, 1990 Rev. Joseph Kennelly, OMI June 24, 1986 Rev. Joseph K. Schneider June 24, 2008 Rev. Alfred E. Greenwald June 24, 2012 Rev. John “Jack” R. Whitley, CSB June 25, 1873 Rev. John B. Bellaclos June 26, 1961 Msgr. Frank J. Dubias June 26, 1965 Rev. Joseph Schmultz, SSJ June 27, 1999 Rev. Michael J. Fritzen, SVD June 27, 2008 Rev. John J. Walsh, CSSP June 27, 2016 Rev. Kenneth E. Mikulik June 29, 2004 Rev. Ladislav Danek June 30, 1952 Rev. Manuel F. Munive, OMI

Expand and deepen our hearts . . .

Please pray for all victims of violence everywhere and their families.

Pray for those being executed in Texas and their families:

Rosario Surtida Arcilla Maullon

PHILIPPINES — Rosario Surtida Arcilla Maullon, mother of Father Alberto Maullon of the Archdiocesan Tribunal, died May 7 in Parañaque City, Philippines.

Due to the pandemic situation in the Philippines, funeral arrangements are still pending. †

June 30: John Hummel

Sister Josephine Nolan

HOUSTON — Sister Josephine Nolan, C.V.I., (aka Sister Xavier), died on Jan. 19. She was 99 years old. Her teaching ministry included service at St. Joseph and Annunciation elementary schools and Marian High School, all in Houston.

Beyond serving in Catholic education, Sister Nolan served as executive secretary of the Houston Central Council of St. Vincent de Paul Society and as a pastoral assistant of the Diocesan Catholic Chaplain Corps at Ben Taub General Hospital as well as in pastoral ministry at the Mission of Santa Teresita in La Democracia, Huehuetenango, Guatemala.

Within her religious community, she served as a Congregational leader under two administrations. Due to the pandemic, all services were held in private at the Motherhouse of the Sisters of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament. †

I N C A R N A T E

camps

Engaging enrichment opportunities for girls.

Athletics

Next Café Catholica Lite set for May 27

Volleyball $150 per week

arts

July 19–22, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

A week of skills training and drills to improve your game and help you better understand volleyball.

Dance $75 session

Broadcast Journalism $175 per week

Food assistance distributions continue

HOUSTON — Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston continues to offer food assistance with drive-through distribution at three locations: the Guadalupe Center in Houston, appointments required; Mamie George Community Center (MGCC) in Richmond, appointments required; and Beacon of Hope in Galveston, a Galveston County super distribution site.

In Galveston, distribution is on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month. The next distributions are on May 26 and June 9, starting at 9 a.m. No appointments required. Call 409-762-2064 for more information.

In Fort Bend, The MGCC is a Houston Food Bank super distribution site, and appointments are required. Distributions are on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., and on Wednesdays from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. For assistance, call 281-202-6289. The next monthly food fair is scheduled for June 26.

At the Guadalupe Center in Houston, distributions are on Tuesdays and Thursdays by appointment only. For addresses, times and to make an appointment, visit www.catholiccharities. org/food or call 713-874-6521.

The University of St. Thomas also hosts food distributions. Open to the community and not limited to UST students, the distributions will be on campus in the Link Lee parking lot, located at 3800 Montrose Blvd. from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on May 28. Contact events@stthom.edu for more information. †

July 12–15, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Polish your court skills, including shooting and passing, playing good defense and how your offense is based around their defense.

socail studies

HOUSTON — The next Café Catholica Lite will be held online May 27 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. All young adults ages 18 to 39 are welcome.

The Office of Young Adult and Campus Ministry will host Father Nathan Cromly from the Congregation of St. John and founder of Eagle Eye Ministries. His topic will be “Why a Year of St. Joseph?” The night will include the talk, Q&A, and communal prayer.

For more information, visit www.archgh.org/cafecatholica or email yacm@archgh.org or call 713-741-8778. To register, visit https://bit.ly/CafeLite2021. †

Basketball $150 per week

Session 1: July 7–9, 8 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Session 2: July 19–21, 8 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Students will learn different dance genres and choreography combinations while strengthening their dance techniques.

June 7–11, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Build your news writing and video production skills in this engaging introduction to broadcast journalism.

Leadership

IN BRIEF

A C A D E M Y

M ID D LE s c h o o l Summer

Norman Sykes

HOUSTON — Norman Everett Sykes, father of Ken Sykes in the Real Estate Department of the Archdiocese and the grandfather of Katie Jaska in Internal Audit of the Archdiocese, died May 1.

He was 92 years old.

A funeral service was held at American Heritage Funeral Home on May 18. †

W O R D

Leadership $125 per week

June 7–11, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

June 14–18, 8 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Find out how to be a strong leader in this week of hands-on activities designed to highlight your unique gifts.

To register and for more information, visit www.incarnateword.org/summer-camps 609 Crawford Street, Houston, TX 77002 | 713-227-3637 | www.incarnateword.org

7

8 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • MAY 25, 2021

Thank you for continuing to

SUPPORT YOUR PARISH

Our Lady of Perpetual Help, pray for us! www.archgh.org/rosary

As Catholics, we believe that all we have is a gift from God. Our response in faith is to offer these gifts back to God in gratitude. With gifts of prayer, we pray for our nation, Church and our parishes. With gifts of treasure, we support our parishes even when we’re not there in person.

Make a gift to your parish online at WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/PARISHOFFERTORY

www.archgh.org/parishoffertory

ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Bring Your Greatest Gifts TO THE

Ofrezcamos nuestros mejores dones al

SEÑOR

Thiên Chúa

By contributing to the more

than 60 DSF programs, you bring your gifts to the Lord and foster good in our local Church.

D aniel C ardinal D i N ardo Archbishop of Galveston-Houston

Diocesan Services Fund

Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston archgh.org/dsf Please consider a gift to the Diocesan Services Fund.

PAGE 2

2020 DSF Annual Report

DSF 2020

DS

F

How Your 2020 DSF Gifts Were Distributed

and Supporting the Clergy

20%

27% Nurturing

and Strengthening Families

15%

27%

15% Ministering to the Poor, the Sick and the Incarcerated

6% 6% Rebates to Parishes

32%

A

32%

Teaching, Evangelizing and Worship

B Note: Numbers are rounded to the nearest whole percent.

<1% Special Grants

C

Nurturing and Strengthening Families 27% Family ministries nurture the most basic core unit of Christian life by caring for human and spiritual needs of family members. These range from the spiritual formation of young people at different ages of development to providing dignified care for the elderly. These ministries also address the needs of different ethnic constituencies and respect for the sanctity of life.

for the clergy from the beginning stages of discernment to retirement. These ministries offer education and formation of men for the priesthood and permanent diaconate as well as provide direct sacramental and pastoral care, spiritual direction, and fraternal support as they carry out their ministries.

F

Ministries charged with this mission administer the largest private school system in Texas and sustain numerous religious education programs serving more than 100,000 people of all ages.

They also promote the Catholic faith, reach out to other faiths, advocate for social justice and support liturgical and musical ministries throughout the Archdiocese.

Promoting, Preparing and Supporting the Rebates to Parishes 6% Clergy

20% Special Grants less than 1% Vocational ministries address the full range of support

E

32%

D

Teaching, Evangelizing and Worship

20% Promoting, Preparing

In addition to the Archdiocesan ministries and agencies indicated above, special grants are awarded to ministries and agencies operating within the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston as determined by Daniel Cardinal DiNardo.

Ministering to the Poor, the Sick and the Incarcerated 15% Answering the call to serve the least among us, these ministries bring pastoral and sacramental aid to the disadvantaged, the disabled, and those who are most in need of God’s healing grace. Whether comforting refugees or battered women, those confined to a prison cell or hospital bed, they show compassion to those in the margins of our society.

This is an abbreviated list of the DSF-funded ministries, for the full list please visit www.archgh.org/DSF.

Goal Amounts, Dollars Pledged and Paid (2016-2020) 2016

KEY

$13,930,150

GOAL

$15,178,992

PLEDGED

$14,878,646

RECEIVED

$13,938,150

2017

$15,138,676 $14,866,903 $ 14,079,150

2018

$ 15,122,721 $14,873,910 $14,079,150 $14,487,499

2019

$14,224,221 $14,124,543 $12,103,177

2020

$13,420,121 0

$3 million

$6 million

$9 million

$12 million

$15 million

2020 DSF Annual Report

PAGE 3

A LETTER from the CARDINAL Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, With gratitude, I wish to share with you the attached report for the Diocesan Services Fund (DSF) appeal of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. This report, covering the appeal year through December 31, 2020, recaps DSF 2020, which had as its theme “Bring Your Greatest Gifts to the Lord.”

We experienced extraordinary challenges in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic. In times of difficulty, such as we experienced during this pandemic, we are reminded that we are called to be instruments of God’s mercy. Despite great hardship, many households made sacrificial gifts to DSF this year. I am moved by the generosity of the 36,402 donors who made a gift to help achieve the ministerial mission of this local Church. Our combined goal for the year was $14,124,543, and by the end of the campaign, we received gifts totaling $13,420,121. I thank everyone who supported these efforts.

Due to the effects of the pandemic on our parishes, I returned 100% of all funds over a parish goal back to support the parish.

Through your generosity, 56 of the 154 parishes received rebates totaling $811,021. I thank my brother priests for their steadfast support. I am grateful for the tremendous response our parishes have provided with their Pastor’s leadership, to support more than 60 ministries funded by the DSF. With DSF 2021 well underway, I look forward to sharing more good news with you next year. Assuring you of my prayers for this local Church, I am Sincerely yours in Christ,

Daniel Cardinal DiNardo Archbishop of Galveston-Houston

More statistics from 2016-2020 Number of Donors

Average Amount Pledged (Gifts)

50,000

$400 47,553

40,000

46,041

44,355

$300

40,510

$319

$328

2016

2017

$341

$357 $313

36,609

30,000

$200

20,000

$100

10,000 0

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

Number of Parishes Over Goal 80%

60%

*Paid by December 31 of appeal year 69%

72%

72%

The Gabriel Project served over 1,800 individuals.

61%

36% 20%

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 TOTAL PARISH REBATE AMOUNT FOR 2020: $811,021

The DSF annual report of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston is produced by the Development Office and designed by the Secretariat for Communications, with support from the Secretariat for Finance.

Cover photos: DSF Archive Photos; Cardinal DiNardo photo (page 3): James Ramos/Texas Catholic Herald

2018

2019

2020

DSF STATS 150 parishes received support services through the Office of Aging.

40%

0

0

San Jose Clinic provided 10,111 medical visits and 2,773 dental visits to uninsured patients.

Catholic Charities provided direct service to 59,363 individuals and provided outreach, food assistance or information to over 304,415 individuals.

Amid COVID-19 restrictions, the Catholic Chaplain Corps provided 3,000 patient visits per month.

The Catholic Chaplain Corps provided over 9,000 compassionate care bags to hospital staff.

759 young adults participated in the virtual Café Catholica events via livestream or viewing the recording in the summer of 2020, and an additional 184 participated in Fall Café Catholica Lite.

1,873 adults were received into full Communion via the RCIA Program.

12,624 infants received the Sacrament of Baptism.

9,823 adults and children received their First Communion.

5,272 adults and children received the Sacrament of Confirmation.

740 attended 10 retreats at Camp Kappe before retreats were halted in March due to COVID-19 restrictions.

PAGE 4

PARISH NAME

2020 DSF Annual Report NO. OF DONORS GOAL

† TOTAL GIVEN

PERCENT OF GOAL

PARISH NAME

CENTRAL VICARIATE All Saints - Houston Annunciation - Houston Assumption - Houston Blessed Sacrament - Houston Catholic Charismatic Center - Houston Christ The King - Houston Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart - Houston Holy Name - Houston Holy Rosary - Houston Immaculate Conception - Houston Immaculate Heart of Mary - Houston Our Lady of Fatima - Galena Park Our Lady of Grace - South Houston Our Lady of Guadalupe - Houston Our Lady of Mount Carmel - Houston Our Lady of Sorrows - Houston Our Lady of St. John - Houston Our Lady Star of the Sea - Houston Our Mother of Mercy - Houston Queen of Peace - Houston Resurrection - Houston St. Alphonsus - Houston St. Anne de Beaupre - Houston St. Augustine - Houston St. Charles Borromeo - Houston St. Christopher - Houston St. Francis of Assisi - Houston St. Francis Xavier - Houston St. Gregory the Great - Houston St. Joseph - Houston St. Juan Diego - Pasadena St. Leo The Great - Houston St. Mary of the Purification - Houston St. Nicholas - Houston St. Patrick - Houston St. Peter Claver - Houston St. Peter the Apostle - Houston St. Philip Neri - Houston St. Philip of Jesus - Houston St. Pius V - Pasadena St. Stephen - Houston Vietnamese Martyrs - Houston

130 85 139 122 28 119 297 65 121 129 125 39 16 102 72 45 47 48 226 74 272 35 21 93 731 123 100 175 94 191 106 265 134 43 178 62 80 61 430 138 50 354

65,000.00 44,200.00 65,000.00 27,810.00 57,000.00 50,000.00 135,000.00 19,570.00 135,000.00 35,000.00 36,000.00 27,500.00 18,272.00 36,000.00 35,000.00 8,060.00 41,000.00 9,000.00 60,000.00 50,000.00 31,000.00 22,000.00 6,270.00 30,000.00 75,000.00 49,000.00 20,000.00 62,000.00 23,690.00 24,640.00 51,000.00 60,000.00 64,000.00 8,500.00 45,320.00 20,900.00 18,000.00 30,190.00 40,000.00 60,000.00 3,360.00 80,000.00

72,875.74 51,564.20 34,428.50 17,300.41 10,822.00 51,477.00 135,445.92 17,797.18 96,108.00 35,000.77 26,211.00 27,535.00 13,748.00 36,200.00 15,765.00 7,530.00 11,212.26 9,346.00 48,309.60 38,156.77 25,329.50 7,096.00 4,095.00 32,442.63 53,344.81 28,345.00 24,926.00 53,036.77 23,890.00 32,834.02 40,513.00 70,213.00 32,479.50 7,600.00 42,948.05 17,832.13 20,409.50 18,656.11 17,580.00 28,493.22 3,860.00 90,308.00

112% 117% 53% 62% 19% 103% 100% 91% 71% 100% 73% 100% 75% 101% 45% 93% 27% 104% 81% 76% 82% 32% 65% 108% 71% 58% 125% 86% 101% 133% 79% 117% 51% 89% 95% 85% 113% 62% 44% 47% 115% 113%

NORTHERN VICARIATE Christ Our Light - Navasota Christ The Good Shepherd - Spring Holy Family - McNair/Baytown Our Lady of Guadalupe - Baytown Our Lady of Lavang - Houston Prince of Peace - Houston Sacred Heart - Conroe Sacred Heart - Crosby St. Andrew - Channelview St. Anne - Tomball St. Anthony of Padua - The Woodlands St. Dominic - Houston St. Edward - Spring St. Ignatius Loyola - Spring St. James the Apostle - Spring St. John Neumann - Houston St. John of the Cross - New Caney St. John the Evangelist - Baytown St. Joseph - Baytown St. Joseph - New Waverly St. Joseph Mission - Stoneham/Plantersville St. Jude Thaddeus - Highlands St. Martha - Kingwood St. Martin de Porres - Barrett Station St. Mary - Plantersville St. Mary Magdalene - Humble St. Matthias the Apostle - Magnolia St. Philip the Apostle - Huffman St. Stanislaus - Anderson St. Stephen the Martyr Mission - Point Blank St. Thomas the Apostle - Huntsville Sts. Simon & Jude - The Woodlands

63 351 74 83 138 788 954 102 218 187 494 166 330 589 232 201 77 140 95 94 51 93 655 70 370 299 209 86 69 32 127 425

24,940.00 243,000.00 19,540.00 48,400.00 56,000.00 450,000.00 189,000.00 36,050.00 72,000.00 115,000.00 350,000.00 34,000.00 170,000.00 300,000.00 92,700.00 68,000.00 32,000.00 39,000.00 24,000.00 17,000.00 10,340.00 24,000.00 305,000.00 22,000.00 88,000.00 165,000.00 65,000.00 36,000.00 21,000.00 2,760.00 37,000.00 225,000.00

19,505.00 235,013.30 16,795.00 48,600.00 56,099.50 391,134.37 173,347.84 31,650.00 46,964.87 84,768.00 286,859.69 25,493.00 197,100.00 317,193.50 73,767.82 36,265.00 16,832.89 39,737.00 28,530.00 22,725.00 13,680.00 25,961.67 322,412.11 22,810.00 119,638.00 119,919.31 73,013.40 36,165.00 19,345.00 10,930.00 39,275.00 214,842.50

78% 97% 86% 100% 100% 87% 92% 88% 65% 74% 82% 75% 116% 106% 80% 53% 53% 102% 119% 134% 132% 108% 106% 104% 136% 73% 112% 100% 92% 396% 106% 95%

NOTES: † These numbers reflect donations received as of December 31, 2020. Parishes that have not met their goal by December 31, 2020 are billed for any DSF deficit, which is not reflected in this report.

† TOTAL GIVEN

PERCENT OF GOAL

SOUTHERN VICARIATE Holy Family - Galveston 329 81,000.00 92,288.42 Mary Queen - Friendswood 456 165,000.00 187,307.50 Most Holy Trinity - Angleton 177 65,000.00 64,895.00 Our Lady of Lourdes - Hitchcock 169 51,000.00 37,547.82 Our Lady of Perpetual Help - Sweeny 44 9,130.00 14,510.00 Queen of Peace - La Marque 87 33,320.00 22,805.39 Sacred Heart of Jesus - Manvel 270 104,030.00 86,511.00 Shrine of the True Cross - Dickinson 201 90,000.00 63,226.50 St. Anthony de Padua - Danbury 73 24,880.00 22,165.00 St. Bernadette Soubirous - Houston 398 184,800.00 166,413.00 St. Clare of Assisi - Houston 312 165,000.00 171,564.82 St. Frances Cabrini - Houston 390 91,876.00 57,037.50 St. Helen - Pearland 491 245,000.00 192,370.80 St. Hyacinth - Deer Park 222 84,000.00 68,614.00 St. Jerome - Clute 97 25,000.00 24,049.97 St. John the Apostle Mission - West Columbia/Sweeny 30 5,270.00 6,195.00 St. John the Baptist - Alvin 209 63,365.00 55,925.22 St. Joseph on the Brazos - Brazoria 39 21,880.00 9,073.50 St. Luke the Evangelist - Houston 422 139,050.00 135,571.84 St. Mary - La Porte 113 52,000.00 36,020.00 St. Mary - League City 397 150,000.00 133,489.75 St. Mary of the Miraculous Medal - Texas City 163 63,860.00 55,027.50 St. Mary Star of the Sea - Freeport 100 25,000.00 22,276.25 St. Michael - Lake Jackson 280 125,660.00 121,905.30 St. Paul - Houston 226 130,000.00 122,761.03

114% 114% 100% 74% 159% 68% 83% 70% 89% 90% 104% 62% 79% 82% 96% 118% 88% 41% 97% 69% 89% 86% 89% 97% 94%

WESTERN VICARIATE Ascension Chinese Mission - Alief 52 17,050.00 17,730.00 Christ The Incarnate Word - Houston 476 85,000.00 95,486.12 Christ The Redeemer - Houston 925 305,000.00 352,987.52 Corpus Christi - Houston 219 75,000.00 70,853.58 Epiphany of the Lord - Katy 649 398,000.00 383,900.69 Guardian Angel - Wallis 110 33,000.00 30,408.00 Holy Family - Missouri City 407 122,000.00 102,087.81 Holy Ghost - Houston 199 70,000.00 61,068.61 Holy Rosary - Rosenberg 240 80,000.00 74,775.10 Immaculate Conception - Sealy 182 45,000.00 46,250.59 Immaculate Conception Mission - Industry/Bellville 50 8,490.00 22,675.00 Notre Dame - Houston 395 105,000.00 75,726.86 Our Lady of Czestochowa - Houston 44 19,360.00 18,607.00 Our Lady of Guadalupe - Rosenberg 343 40,000.00 29,798.00 Our Lady of Lourdes - Houston 83 40,000.00 23,984.00 Regina Caeli - Houston 29 10,000.00 10,110.00 Sacred Heart - Pattison 73 17,000.00 12,887.53 Sacred Heart - Richmond 354 168,000.00 128,504.19 St. Albert of Trapani - Houston 194 78,000.00 76,682.28 St. Ambrose - Houston 181 72,000.00 58,956.00 St. Andrew Kim - Houston 127 31,000.00 41,726.00 St. Angela Merici - Missouri City 114 40,000.00 44,087.00 St. Anne - Houston 444 362,000.00 384,037.75 St. Bartholomew the Apostle - Katy 347 165,000.00 130,990.00 St. Benedict the Abbott - Houston 128 33,000.00 26,481.86 St. Catherine of Siena - Houston 130 53,900.00 52,030.00 St. Cecilia - Houston 527 330,000.00 304,056.61 St. Cyril of Alexandria - Houston 320 177,000.00 128,142.50 St. Edith Stein - Katy 257 136,000.00 134,517.46 St. Elizabeth Ann Seton - Houston 502 270,000.00 178,732.77 St. Faustina - Fulshear 260 150,000.00 134,118.74 St. Francis de Sales - Houston 372 138,000.00 120,847.25 St. Jerome - Houston 686 121,000.00 90,739.85 St. John Fisher - Richmond 195 39,140.00 32,383.31 St. John Vianney - Houston 869 430,000.00 607,462.28 St. Justin Martyr - Houston 461 124,780.00 126,667.60 St. Katharine Drexel - Hempstead 168 66,950.00 52,411.12 St. Laurence - Sugar Land 834 495,000.00 431,753.34 St. Mark the Evangelist - Houston 177 38,000.00 24,004.75 St. Mary - Frydek/Sealy 90 22,780.00 20,334.50 St. Matthew the Evangelist - Houston 227 56,000.00 54,370.50 St. Maximilian Kolbe - Houston 369 138,000.00 157,354.28 St. Michael - Houston 671 405,000.00 526,318.94 St. Michael the Archangel - Needville 138 39,000.00 27,979.50 St. Monica - Houston 152 46,000.00 22,450.52 St. Raphael the Archangel - Houston 37 31,000.00 5,605.00 St. Rose of Lima - Houston 292 96,000.00 86,378.75 St. Theresa - Houston 259 120,510.00 214,559.05 St. Theresa - Sugar Land 443 205,000.00 205,333.45 St. Thomas Aquinas - Sugar Land 271 78,000.00 77,242.49 St. Thomas More - Houston 315 193,000.00 132,441.50 St. Vincent de Paul - Houston 467 312,000.00 355,001.85 St. Wenceslaus Mission - Beasley/Rosenberg 33 3,000.00 8,095.00 Sts. Cyril and Methodius - Damon 37 9,200.00 8,965.00 Sts. Peter and Paul - Bellville 81 25,250.00 33,445.00

104% 112% 116% 94% 96% 92% 84% 87% 93% 103% 267% 72% 96% 74% 60% 101% 76% 76% 98% 82% 135% 110% 106% 79% 80% 97% 92% 72% 99% 66% 89% 88% 75% 83% 141% 102% 78% 87% 63% 89% 97% 114% 130% 72% 49% 18% 90% 178% 100% 99% 69% 114% 270% 97% 132%

Direct Contributions to the Archdiocese for DSF

NO. OF DONORS GOAL

396

0.00

175,591.26

0%

MAY 25, 2021 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

texas catholic herald

EDUCATION

CHRIST THE REDEEMER

HAIL HOLY QUEEN

ST. JOSEPH - BAYTOWN

May crowning celebrations continue at parishes, schools all month long HOUSTON — With flowers and blooms of every color and size, Catholic schools and parishes in the Archdiocese continued to hold May crownings, a time-honored Catholic tradition held during the month of May that recognizes Mary as Queen of Heaven and Earth. Many communities included special cere During these events, students and parishioners presented a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary with flowers and placed a handmade flower crown upon her head.

Parishioners and students viewed these events that were livestreamed online for family and faithful to join.

Catholic communities around the Archdiocese held the traditional, annual celebration and shared their photos with the Texas Catholic Herald. †

OUR LADY OF FATIMA - GALENA PARK

ST. ROSE OF LIMA

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL

ST. FRANCIS DE SALES

HOLY ROSARY - ROSENBERG

9

10 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • MAY 25, 2021

YOUTH School of Environment Education continues its mission About 60 miles northwest of downtown Houston among the soft rolling hills and forest of the Brazos Valley lies the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston Camp Kappe Youth Retreat Facility — a somewhat hidden treasure located on 130 acres of beautiful forest, pastures, trails, ponds and a variety of wildlife.

Camp Kappe was founded in 1981 as a center exclusively for youth retreat programs and environmental education to give parishes and schools of Galveston-Houston their own complex rather than relying on facilities of other denominations or secular organizations.

It later expanded its mission to include young adults.

Camp Kappe is also the home of the School of Environmental Education (S.E.E.), a fully accredited TCCB-ED school for fifth-grade Catholic school students from throughout the Archdiocese, as well as the Dioceses of Beaumont and Austin.

Supported by the Diocesan Service Fund, Camp Kappe’s mission is to provide a facility and school where youth can deepen their Catholic faith and foster spiritual, academic and personal growth in the formation of Catholic values and traditions rooted in

Christ. It is because of this support that Camp Kappe is one of the most affordable centers providing a high-quality and unique Catholic camp experience for parishes and schools. by Although the weekend RANDY retreat programs have been put on hold due to ADAMS the COVID-19 pandemic, S.E.E., following approved COVID -19 protocols and procedures, reopened its doors in October 2020 on a much smaller scale for schools to return for environmental education. Each week, schools have been able to return to explore environmental areas including forest and field, farm and garden (with pigs, goats, sheep, chickens and peacocks), pond study, sustainability/ biodegradability, entomology and adventure activities like archery and canoeing to name a few.

We are blessed to have incredible S.E.E. instructors and Camp Kappe support staff who have done such a fantastic job during this pandemic.

Throughout last spring and summer, S.E.E. staff put together wonderful

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videos covering a wide range of topics in environmental education, as well as fun games, prayers and other activities highlighting the camp. The S.E.E. instructors wanted to share their thoughts on this unusual year.

S.E.E. Director Michael Richmond’s first trip to Kappe was as a high school youth and a member of the Archdiocesan Youth Council. After college, he began working as an instructor at the camp and now as director.

“During this year, S.E.E. at Camp Kappe has been able to safely and effectively host schools and the much anticipated fifth-grade field trip to Plantersville. Being able to make our students feel safe and watch them enjoy our program and the outdoors is a sense of normalcy that I believe they have been missing throughout this entire year.

I can’t wait for next year as we continue our program and deliver this experience to our students.”

For S.E.E. Farm and Garden Instructor Nathaniel Wooten, his first experience was as a fifth-grade student from St. Francis de Sales School attending S.E.E. “Coming to Camp Kappe as a fifthgrader, I experienced hands-on learning about the care of God’s creations.

Learning our role as good stewards towards our environment has been a mission in my life, and I love passing on this enthusiasm to our students. Camp Kappe really brings the students together as a whole and creates bonds that are life-long.”

For Veronica Campos, S.E.E. instructor and our resident entomologist and pollen garden advocate, she took the time to summarize this school year’s experience.

“As the 2020-2021 school year comes to an end, it is extraordinary to see the growth that Camp Kappe has undertaken. The S.E.E. was able to adapt to the ever-changing regulations and continued to serve our students. In a school year full of online classes,

distance learning and video presentations, Camp Kappe was able to offer a week of experiences. My students were able to run around and observe insects close up, not just view them through a video or a picture in a book.

They picked up a bow and arrow and felt the excitement of landing their first bull’s eye. We’ve been able to help our students shed the burden of a very difficult year and experience the joys of being a child of God. Even though we know that the effects of this worldwide pandemic are far from over, we are also so blessed and grateful to be able to share in these moments of joy with our students and chaperones.”

Our newest instructor and Pond Study leader, Preston Norton, started the job in October, right after the first school come back to Camp. ​“Nothing has been easy about the 2020-2021 school year and the worldwide pandemic that has served as its defining characteristic. However, in these unprecedented times, the Camp Kappe School of Environmental Education has shown me the possibility of connection in times that feel nothing but divided — c ​ onnection to nature, connection to God and connection to each other. Seeing these fifth graders interacting with the S.E.E program, I see the future, and it looks bright.”

This summer both the S.E.E. and Camp Kappe staffs will continue their hard work on a variety of projects and planning activities as they prepare for the opening of S.E.E. and weekend retreat programs this fall. For more information on S.E.E. and Camp Kappe, contact Randy Adams, executive director of the Camp Kappe Youth Facility at radams@archgh.org. †

Randy Adams is the executive director of Camp Kappe Youth Retreat Facility and an associate director of the Office of Adolescent Catechesis and Evangelization.

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MAY 25, 2021 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

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COLUMNISTS Freedom in the bubble After reflecting on the Scriptures, the various developments of theology over the centuries, the beautiful depths of liturgical life, and the inspiring lives of the saints, the minds of seminarians often turn to art.

There are the great treasures of the western tradition, to be sure, but sometimes it’s easiest to rest in what we already know and love. For me, that’s been George Strait. During the pandemic, I turned to his music out of simple nostalgia — but it has surprisingly become a source of deeper reflection on the gifts of grace.

In his “Amarillo by Morning,” the King of Country bears a subtle witness to a deep interior sense of freedom. After cataloging his woes — a broken leg and two breakups — he proclaims, “I ain’t got a dime, but what I’ve got is mine/I ain’t rich, but Lord, I’m free.”This poignant

sense of freedom is one that bears greatly on the Christian life.

Here at St. Mary’s Seminary, we’ve been blessed to live in “The Bubble” for the past year.

Though we haven’t been able to leave, the normal by FR. RICHARD rhythms of seminary life MCNEILLIE have largely remained the same.

Our days are spent in prayer, study and recreation: the great gifts of seminary life have largely remained intact. Thank God for the beautiful lives we live.

Though we have not suffered like George’s lonesome rodeo man, the virus has severely limited two key components of our formation here. First have been

†

the important experiences of serving in parishes. Our time with the people is crucial for both our discernment and development as future pastors. We have had to make due, each man finding little ways to do ministry where he can. For myself, the best day of the year was spent giving talks over Zoom to St. Theresa Catholic School in Sugar Land.

Second, we have had few opportunities to take a break from one another, to see our families and friends, and to relax from what can be a rigorous lifestyle. It has been in bearing these two crosses that my brothers and I have come to more fully understand the great freedom the Lord has given us.

True interior freedom comes in spiritual poverty — knowing always that we rely on God. Spiritual poverty is born out of suffering and loss.

In our community, we have had to

rely on God in new ways. In responding to our own crosses amidst the pandemic, we have each found ourselves as weak men totally reliant on God’s grace. And that, of course, has led us to prayer.

Prayer has been our consolation, our rest and our freedom.

Freedom is not being free from the suffering of the cross. Freedom is realizing that our cross is the Lord’s and letting Him enter our hearts amid that suffering.

When we receive this interior freedom, we’re able to rejoice in the gifts that we have been given. This spiritual poverty helps us see that we are each truly free in God’s grace. †

Father Richard McNeillie is the director of the Office of Vocations.

Recognizing the ministry of the catechist On May 11, Pope Francis made public his Apostolic Letter, Antiquum Ministerium, instituting the Ministry of Catechist. He begins his letter by noting the ancient origins of this ministry, already present during the time of the apostles and evangelists.

Those with a vocation as a catechist possess a “personal charism” that is of great value in the Catholic Church.

“The Church wished to acknowledge this service as a concrete expression of a personal charism that contributed greatly to the exercise of her mission of evangelization. This glance at the life of the first Christian communities engaged in the spread of the Gospel also encourages the Church in our day to appreciate possible new ways for her to remain faithful to the word of the Lord so that his Gospel can be preached to every creature.” (Paragraph # 2) This Apostolic Letter comes soon after the publication of the new Directory for Catechesis (July 2020).

Chapter 3 of this document speaks to the role of the catechist. Pope Francis’s apostolic letter goes further than the Directory in highlighting the value of the LAY catechist.

“Without prejudice to the Bishop’s mission as the primary catechist in his Diocese, one which he shares with his presbyterate, or to the particular responsibility of parents for the Christian formation of their children, recognition should be given to those lay men and women who feel called by virtue of their baptism to cooperate in the work of catechesis. This presence is all the more urgently needed today as a result of our increasing awareness of the

need for evangelization in the contemporary world, and the rise of a globalized culture.”

(Paragraph #5) The Office of Evangelization and Catechesis provides by formation programs for catechists as well as JULIE catechetical leaders in BLEVINS both English and Spanish. The certificates awarded for completion of these courses of study enable the catechist to serve their parish and the Church as a whole authentically.

“At the same time, every catechist must be a witness to the faith, a teacher and mystagogue, a companion and pedagogue, who teaches for the Church.

Only through prayer, study, and direct participation in the life of the community can they grow in this identity and the integrity and responsibility that it entails.” (Paragraph # 6) Bishops from each country will meet to discern the process for instituting the Ministry of Catechist in their part of the world. This will not happen overnight but will prayerfully call on the Holy Spirit for guidance in establishing these criteria.

“It is fitting that those called to the instituted Ministry of Catechist be men and women of deep faith and human maturity, active participants in the life of the Christian community, capable of welcoming others, being generous and living a life of fraternal communion.

They should also receive suitable

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We need more of these authentic witnesses, agents of the New Evangelization, as we embark on these post-COVID-19 times. biblical, theological, pastoral and pedagogical formation to be competent communicators of the truth of the faith and they should have some prior experience of catechesis.” (Paragraph #8) The publication of this Apostolic Letter has begun a process that will highlight the important role of catechists for our Archdiocesan parishes.

In this post-COVID-19 time, parishes are investigating different approaches to faith formation in their parish that may be more effective. This includes the implementation of new 21st century methodologies that incorporate the whole family/household of faith (Domestic Church) in both in-person and virtual platforms. Our office assists parishes and catechetical leaders in these initiatives made possible through your annual contributions to our Archdiocesan Services Fund (DSF).

The role of the catechist will expand from skills used in traditional “classroom” settings to include roles of

family mentors, faith group leaders and virtual facilitators — those who accompany people in their faith journey in a variety of platforms. They will serve as initial proclaimers of the Kerygma.

“Catechists are called first to be expert in the pastoral service of transmitting the faith as it develops through its different stages from the initial proclamation of the Kerygma to the instruction that presents our new life in Christ and prepares for the Sacraments of Christian initiation, and then to the ongoing formation that can allow each person to give an accounting of the hope within them. At the same time, every catechist must be a witness to the faith, a teacher and mystagogue, a companion and pedagogue, who teaches for the Church.

Only through prayer, study, and direct participation in the life of the community can they grow in this identity and the integrity and responsibility that it entails.”

(Paragraph #6).

This is what it means to be an authentic witness of the faith.

We give thanks every day to all of our thousands of catechists and catechetical leaders who are co-workers in the vineyard of the Lord. We need more of these authentic witnesses, agents of the New Evangelization, as we embark on these post-COVID-19 times. Maybe you can prayerfully discern if the Lord is calling you as a layperson to serve Him and His Church in this important ministry. To read the Apostolic Letter in its entirety, visit www.vatican.va. †

Julie Blevins is the director of the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis.

SUNDAY MASS READINGS MAY 30

First Reading: Deut 4:32-34, 39-40

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 33:4-6, 9, 18-20, 22

Second Reading: Rom 8:14-17

Gospel: Mt 28:16-20

JUNE 6

First Reading: Ex 24:3-8

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 116:12-13, 15-18

Second Reading: Heb 9:11-15

Gospel: Mk 14:12-16, 22-26

12 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD COLUMNISTS

Creating a plan to age with dignity: Ready or not?

What would you want to see happen if you could no longer care for yourself?

Who would take care of you, and what are your wishes to make this happen?

These tough questions remind me of what we, as Houstonians, face each spring regarding hurricane and flood preparedness.

Having faced enough major storms in recent years, we take such preparation seriously. When we have had interim periods without major storms, it can become easier to grow complacent and be less prepared.

Similarly, today with modern medicine being able to extend our quality of life and life span, it may be tempting to ignore preparation for this slower but inevitable physical and cognitive decline. We can try to compensate for such changes, but without adequate preparations, we may find ourselves overwhelmed without the means in place when we most need them.

As Jesus in His dying moments was mindful of passing on care for His mother to His beloved disciple, we, as a community of faith, are likewise called to work together to support our loved ones and community members as they age. The planning process starts with us acknowledging our mortality and limitations as human beings. When we do that, we can free ourselves from the trappings of fear and anxiety that interfere with our willingness to discuss these concerns and plan accordingly.

A senior I know brought this home for me recently when he shared some of his and his wife’s End-of-Life care plan, which they had gradually developed over the past 30 years. He mentioned that he and his wife first created a trust for his children (years later revised to a will). They added

powers of attorney for financial and medical decisions and created medical advance directives if they ever lacked the capacity to make those decisions.

He also developed a by household inventory that documented valued MARK CIESIELSKI purchases along with a list of passwords for their personal computer.

They made funeral and final interment arrangements on a payment plan and even added choices for the music at their funerals. Most importantly, they took time to share their wishes and documents with their trusted loved ones.

He noted that one of the primary motivating factors for their planning was to spare their children the problems that they had observed with some families who had lost loved ones but had not done any planning.

The Office of Aging offers a variety of comprehensive planning resources on its webpage to address the temporal and spiritual realities that accompany the aging process.

In addition, the office is available to consult with parish leaders and senior groups to determine appropriate forums for education to help address their needs.

For more information, contact Mark Ciesielski at mciesielski@ archgh.org or 713-741-8712 or view the Office of Aging webpage resources for Caregiving, Aging in Place, or End-of-Life Care at https:// www.archgh.org/aging. †

†

Mark Ciesielski is an associate director in the Office of Aging.

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ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • MAY 25, 2021

P for pandemic? No, P is for perseverance, purpose on campus and in Christ The 2021 University of Houston Graduation Mass was held on May 9 in the A.D. Bruce Religion Center chapel on the main campus.

Despite the year of mostly online ministry, it featured the largest number of graduates to have attended in recent years. The graduates included 18 students who attended in person, one student participating virtually from Dubai, and the Newman Center campus minister, Claire McMullin, who graduated with her MA in Faith and Culture from the University of St. Thomas.

Much care was taken to ensure compliance with university COVID-19 protocols, and family joy, excitement and school spirit filled the air.

It was uplifting to witness how students achieved such an important accomplishment in the midst of more than a year characterized by online classes and a nearly desolate campus.

Perhaps the visible lesson was that perseverance does bring meaningful rewards.

At the same time, perseverance must have purpose. What makes us persevere?

More importantly, who strengthens and guides our perseverance?

The answers need to be faith and Jesus Christ. However, as college students will remind us, coming up with answers is not always the conclusion but the beginning of new endeavors and new hopes.

As we consider all that the pandemic has brought about in our Church, our world, our local communities, as well as in our own lives, we must ask who and what have been our reasons to persevere? Why and how have we been able to do so? When and where have we experienced setbacks and losses and joys and successes?

Perhaps one of the risks we face is to come out of the pandemic experience as in a rush to return to “normalcy” or get back to familiar routines. Christ, however, might be exhorting us to slow down, look at where we have been and learn from what has been happening.

The words of renowned 20th Century English poet, T.S. Eliot, in his great poetic work, Four Quartets, The Dry Salvages, seem to capture the risk of rushing: “We had the experience but

missed the meaning…”

It is easy to think, “Life goes on,” but our faith calls us to be grateful and humble when looking back over the past, willing to recognize God’s grace in the present, and by be hopeful as we face the road ahead.

FATHER In his first encyclical, CHARLES JOHNSON, OP Lumen Fidei (Light of Faith), Pope Francis helps us make this response by understanding faith not as a concept but as God’s gift, which shines brighter the more we remember his goodness and the meaning in our lives of the many people around us.

He writes: “On the one hand, [faith] is a light coming from the past, the light of the foundational memory of the life of Jesus which revealed his perfectly trustworthy love, a love capable of triumphing over death. Yet since Christ has risen and draws us beyond death, faith is also a light coming from the future and opening before us vast horizons which guide us beyond our isolated selves towards the breadth of communion” (Lumen Fidei, 4).

There is much to learn from what we have gone through, especially in perceiving how Christ has accompanied us and continues to do so. Our students have modeled this demand of our faith, not by expecting or finding easy answers, but by their adaptation to the circumstances forced upon them and trust that the Lord is always with us.

Growth in Christ becomes irreversible the more we live our faith and the less we wonder if we have enough. This calls for a lot of remembering, a lot of giving love, and plenty of hoping.

Christ beckons us to persevere because he more than provides the love and faith to keep strong. He more than provides the purpose because he more than provides people in need of our concern and mercy. †

†

Father Charles Johnson, O.P., serves as director for the University of Houston Catholic Newman Center.

At the Christian Renewal Center

July 25 -27 Overnight Retreat for Families w/ kids in 1st – 6th grade In God We Trust: Bible Stories, Crafts, Games, Camp Activities, Sacraments, Visits by the Saints Register online at

www.retreatcentercrc.org Socially-Distant & Spiritually-Connected.

Safety Precautions are in-place. Enjoy the 52-acres of the CRC. CRC has safely operated over 60 retreats since May 2020 under COVID-19 protocols.

PASTORAL SUPPORT FOR VICTIMS OF CLERGY SEXUAL ABUSE In a continuing effort to provide pastoral care to victims of sexual abuse by clergy or Church personnel, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo would like to remind the faithful of the Archdiocese of the availability of the Victims Assistance Coordinator. Anyone who has been the victim of sexual abuse by clergy or Church personnel is encouraged to call Diane Vines at 713-654-5799. Please keep in daily prayers the healing of victims of abuse and all who suffer in any way.



MAY 25, 2021 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

texas catholic herald

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WORLD

Pope: The world should not reject the ‘most beautiful gift life can offer’ ROME (CNS) — If families are not the priority of the present, there will be no future, Pope Francis said as he opened a meeting in Rome on Italy’s chronic decline in population growth.

“For the future to be good, we must, therefore, take care of families, especially young families, who are beset by worries that risk paralyzing their life plans,” the pope said at the meeting on May 14.

“It is a challenge, not just for Italy, but for many countries — often rich in resources, but poor in hope,” he said.

Organizers said they hoped the meeting Pope Francis opened would be just the first to focus on the general state of Italy’s birthrate and demographics.

The one-day meeting, sponsored by the Italian Forum of Family Associations, was held both online and at a Rome auditorium not far from St. Peter’s Square, and it was attended by several government officials, including Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi, who also delivered opening remarks.

Gianluigi De Palo, president of the family forum, told the pope he wanted to organize a meeting that brought together as many sectors of society as possible to call for proactive and concrete action on an issue that also affects all of Europe.

According to Eurostat, Italy registers a -2.1% population growth rate per year, the lowest in western Europe. Italy’s fertility rate of 1.29 was higher than that of Malta and Spain, but the two countries’ population growth rates were higher because of migration.

Having children was once seen as “a richness,” but now it has become a luxury for some and a source of poverty for others, De Palo said.

Because sustainable development requires a healthy balance of generations, he said, “a change in mentality is urgent,”

CNS PHOTO

Pope Francis greets children in a Rome auditorium May 14 as he opens a meeting dedicated to Italy’s declining birthrate and population.

specifically in seeing policies and programs that support children and families not as a cost but as an investment.

In his talk, Pope Francis praised the meeting for bringing together people from the world of business, banks, media, sports and culture, as well as young people who were watching online.

Statistics say most young people want to have children, but their dreams — which should be the seeds of the nation’s revival — are being hit by a “still cold and dark demographic winter” as only half believe they will be able to have two children, he said.

Young people are faced with several worries that lead them to put their dreams

on hold, such as a precarious job market and rising costs that make supporting a family increasingly more difficult, he said.

It is also sad, he said, how many working women are “discouraged from having children or have to hide their pregnancy. How is it possible that a woman should feel ashamed of the most beautiful gift that life can offer?”

It should not be the woman, but society that feels ashamed “because a society that does not welcome life stops living,” he said.

Good role models and values need to be promoted, he said, because often it seems the message out there is that

achievement comes with money and success while children are seen as “a distraction that must not get in the way of one’s personal aspirations. This mentality is gangrene for society and makes the future unsustainable.”

The pope encouraged all government efforts for helping families’ real needs, saying,“if families are not the focus of the present, there will be no future,” adding that the country will only take off again if families can thrive first.

A sustainable balance of generations requires a social structure built on a permanent system of solidarity — not the one-off and spontaneous generosity that is important, particularly during the current crisis made worse by the pandemic, he said.

These economic struggles cannot be fixed with emergency and temporary responses but require real stability through social structures, policies, an economy and a culture that all support and promote families and new births, he said.

Young people need guarantees of stable employment and housing security so they will not be tempted to immigrate elsewhere, the pope said.

He said, “It would be wonderful to see the growth of business owners and companies that, beyond making profits, promote life, that are careful to never exploit people with unsustainable conditions and work schedules, that get to distribute a portion of profits to workers in order to contribute to that priceless development of families.”

A culture aimed at building the future “cannot be based on the individual and the mere satisfaction of one’s rights and needs. It requires a culture that cultivates a chemistry of (working) together, the beauty of gift, the value of sacrifice,” Pope Francis said. †

Yes, We Do

IN BRIEF The Church and the world need Catholic Scouts, pope tells young scouts VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis told a group of young women and men that as Catholic Scouts they have a “noble mission” to witness to the Gospel with their faith, service and care of creation.

The French Scouts, with their commitment to helping others, are also “called to work for a more ‘outgoing’ Church and for a more human world,” the pope told the young people May 14 at a Vatican meeting celebrating the 50th anniversary of the founding of the French national organization for Catholic scouting.

“I urge you to be both dynamic Christians and faithful scouts,” he told them. In a world where interpersonal relationships seem to be difficult and where young people seem to lack “trustworthy role models,” he said, scouting helps. Even during the coronavirus pandemic when it wasn’t always possible to meet in person, scouting has been “a sign of encouragement to young people, because it invites them to dream and to act, to have the courage to look to the future with hope.” †

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14 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • MAY 25, 2021

NATION & STATE

Restored Hungarian flag returns to San Juan Capistrano mission

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF SAN ANTONIO

Above, Hungarian Consul General Tamas Szeles with the statute of San Juan Capistrano at the mission in San Antonio Below, at right, taking part in a flag presentation ceremony at Mission San Juan Capistrano on May 4 were Consul General Tamas Szeles from Los Angeles; Father Herb Jones, OFM, associate pastor of Mission San; San Antonio Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller, MspS; Dr. Peter Speicher, parishioners; and Vice-Consulate Gabor Markoscany from Houston.

SAN ANTONIO — The statute of San Juan Capistrano within Mission San Juan Capistrano received a new flag May 4 from the General Consulate of Hungary to the United States.

Consulate General Tamas Szeles from Los Angeles and Vice-Consulate Gabor Markoscany from Houston presented a replica flag to Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller, MSpS, and Father Herb Jones, OFM, associate pastor of Mission San Juan. Other guests included Superintendent Christine Jacobs of the National Park Service; Colleen Swain, director of the San Antonio World Heritage Office; San Antonio Chief Diplomacy and Protocol Officer Sherri Dowlatshahi; and Rebecca Simmons, director of the Old Spanish Missions.

In 2000, thieves broke into Mission San Juan Capistrano and stole three 18th-Century statues from the church’s altar, including the original statue of the mission’s namesake, San Juan Capistrano.

The statue was replaced with a modern replica complete with a banner.

Unfortunately, the flag was again stolen a few years later.

A parishioner, Dr. Peter Speicher, noticed the loss and began looking for a replacement. When he realized the flag was a medieval Hungarian flag, Speicher contacted the Hungarian Consulate. After discussions with the San Juan pastor, the

Hungarian Consulate agreed to fabricate an appropriate replica.

There is a strong connection between San Juan Capistrano and Hungary based on San Juan’s crucial role in defeating the Turkish troops during the siege of Belgrade in 1456.

The Battle of Belgrade saw Hungary and the rest of Europe halt an advancing Ottoman Empire. San Juan’s role was even more meaningful because the King of Hungary and most aristocrats fled Hungary before the advancing Turks, leaving few to defend Belgrade. San Juan gathered thousands of peasants behind his cross and flag and advanced on the experienced Turkish troops, ultimately causing them to retreat.

The Franciscan friars who founded San Juan Capistrano in 1730 sought as its patron a fellow Franciscan known as a powerful preacher and courageous defender of his flock. In the 19thCentury, the mission church deteriorated until a determined priest restored it.

The archdiocese and the people of San Antonio joined together to preserve San Antonio’s history and all four of its mission churches.

Mission San Juan is an active Catholic parish that sits within the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park and forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage site that includes all five of the original San Antonio missions. †

The Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston Full job descriptions for each position are available online: www.archgh.org/employment Downtown Chancery | 1700 San Jacinto | Houston, TX 77002

Development Associate Director Development Coordinator Parish Accounting Services Staff Accountant St. Dominic Chancery | 2403 Holcombe Blvd. | Houston, TX 77021

Family Life Ministry Associate Director of Continued Ministry Hospitality Manager, Circle Lake Retreat Center Catholic Schools Office Director of Faith Formation Office of Evangelization and Catechesis Associate Director for Persons with Disabilities and Catechist Formation (Spanish) Young Adult and Campus Ministry Associate Director Interested candidates may send a cover letter, with salary requirement, and resume to resume@archgh.org with the job title on the subject line. *Submissions that do not include the salary requirement will not be moved forward for consideration.

IN BRIEF Officials say arson caused fire that destroyed landmark Catholic church PHILADELPHIA (CNS) — Federal investigators have ruled arson was the cause of a blaze that destroyed a Catholic church once considered the heart of Northeast Philadelphia’s historic Tacony neighborhood.

Early in the evening May 9, fire ravaged the former St. Leo the Great Church, gutting the structure. The blaze, which originated in the church, also severely damaged the former parish rectory, home to permanent diaconate candidate Pasqual Mota and his family, who had purchased the residence from the Philadelphia Archdiocese in 2016.

The Philadelphia Fire Marshal’s Office and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives announced May 13 that the fire had been deliberately set, although officials did not specify the details of their findings.

According to ATF Supervisory Special Agent Charles Doerrer, the new owner — whom authorities said is cooperating with the investigation and is not a suspect — had planned to lease the former church either to another congregation or a performing arts group.

In July 2013, St. Leo was merged with nearby Our Lady of Consolation Parish and the church remained a worship site until it was closed in December 2018 and relegated to a nonecclesiastical use. †

MAY 25, 2021 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

texas catholic herald

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MUNDO CATÓLICO Ser catequista es una vocación, dice el papa al establecer un ministerio formal CIUDAD DEL VATICANO (CNS) — Instando al reconocimiento formal de “aquellos hombres y mujeres laicos que se sienten llamados en virtud de su bautismo a cooperar en la labor de la catequesis”, el papa Francisco ha establecido el “ministerio del catequista”.

“El espíritu está llamando a hombres y mujeres a salir al encuentro de todos aquellos que esperan descubrir la belleza, la bondad y la verdad de la fe cristiana”, escribió el papa en “Antiquum Ministerium” (Ministerio antiguo), su documento publicado en el Vaticano el 11 de mayo.

Además de publicar los textos del documento en italiano, francés, inglés, alemán, español, portugués y polaco, el Vaticano distribuyó un video del texto traducido al lenguaje de signos italiano.

Los párrocos deben apoyar a los laicos para que respondan a la llamada del espíritu y “enriquezcan la vida de la comunidad cristiana mediante el reconocimiento de los ministerios laicos capaces de contribuir a la transformación de la sociedad a través de la penetración de los valores cristianos en los sectores sociales, políticos y económicos”, dijo el appa, citando lo que había escrito sobre la vocación de los laicos en su documento de 2013, “La alegría del Evangelio”.

Las conferencias episcopales deberán determinar “el proceso de formación y los criterios normativos para la admisión a este ministerio” y definir “las formas más adecuadas para el servicio que estos hombres y mujeres serán llamados a ejercer”, dijo el papa.

La Congregación para el Culto Divino y los Sacramentos, dijo,“publicará pronto el Rito de Institución del ministerio laico del catequista”. La congregación ya está trabajando en los ritos revisados para los ministerios del lector y acólito, que el papa Francisco abrió a las mujeres en enero.

Mientras millones de hombres y mujeres laicos en todo el mundo ya sirven como catequistas, lectores y monaguillos, la institución formal en los ministerios significa que el servicio es estable, delegado por el obispo y reconocido públicamente por la iglesia.

El arzobispo Rino Fisichella, presidente del Consejo Pontificio para la Promoción de la Nueva Evangelización, señaló cómo San Pablo VI escribió en 1975 sobre la importancia de que los laicos utilicen sus dones para el crecimiento de toda la iglesia.

“Han tenido que pasar casi 50 años para que la iglesia llegue a reconocer que el servicio prestado por tantos hombres y mujeres a través de su compromiso catequético constituye verdaderamente un ministerio distintivo para el crecimiento de la comunidad cristiana”, dijo el arzobispo a los periodistas en una conferencia de prensa para presentar el documento del papa.

En su documento, el papa Francisco señaló cómo los maestros de la fe estaban presentes desde los primeros días de la comunidad cristiana y se les reconocía un don especial del Espíritu

FOTO DE CNS

Bruna Maloal, una catequista católica de 63 años, se para frente a la puerta de su casa en Abyei, a lo largo de la frontera entre Sudán y Sudán del Sur, en esta foto de archivo del 27 de febrero de 2013. En un documento publicado el 11 de mayo de 2021, el papa Francisco instituyó el “ministerio de catequista.”

Santo para llevar a cabo su papel dentro de la comunidad.

“A veces --escribió-- los carismas que el espíritu derrama constantemente sobre los bautizados adquirían una forma visible y tangible de servicio inmediato a la comunidad cristiana, reconocida como una diaconía indispensable para la comunidad”.

Al mirar la historia de la evangelización, dijo el papa, los católicos no pueden pasar por alto “los innumerables hombres y mujeres laicos que participaron directamente en la difusión del evangelio a través de la instrucción catequética. Hombres y mujeres de profunda fe, auténticos testigos de santidad, que en algunos casos fueron también fundadores de iglesias e incluso murieron como mártires”.

Afirmó que todavía hoy “muchos catequistas competentes y dedicados son líderes comunitarios en diversas partes del mundo y llevan a cabo una misión inestimable para la transmisión y el crecimiento de la fe”.

Especialmente en las comunidades que carecen de un sacerdote residente, los catequistas son los líderes de la comunidad católica local, evangelizando, convocando y guiando a sus compañeros católicos en la oración y las obras de caridad. Y, en los territorios misioneros bajo la guía de la Congregación para la Evangelización de los Pueblos, ya sirven con un mandato específico de su obispo.

“La larga lista de beatos, santos y mártires que fueron catequistas ha hecho avanzar significativamente la misión de la iglesia y merece ser reconocida, pues representa un rico recurso no sólo para la catequesis, sino también para toda la historia de la espiritualidad cristiana”,

escribió el papa Francisco.

La institución formal de los catequistas, dijo, debe ser un signo y un estímulo para que todos los católicos laicos reconozcan “aún más el compromiso misionero propio de todo bautizado, un compromiso que, sin embargo, debe llevarse a cabo de manera totalmente “secular”, evitando cualquier forma de clericalización”.

El arzobispo Fisichella dijo que el papa Francisco estaba insistiendo en que “los laicos están llamados a expresar su vocación bautismal de la mejor manera posible, no como sustitutos de los sacerdotes o de las personas consagradas, sino como auténticos laicos que, en la naturaleza distintiva de su ministerio, son capaces de experimentar la plenitud de su vocación bautismal de testimonio y servicio efectivo en la comunidad y en el mundo”.

Los laicos que se sientan llamados al ministerio de catequistas deben participar activamente en la vida de sus comunidades católicas y ser fieles al evangelio y a la enseñanza de la iglesia, dijo. Pero también deben recibir “una adecuada formación bíblica, teológica, pastoral y pedagógica para ser comunicadores competentes de la verdad de la fe”.

“Los que van a ser catequistas deben saber que hablan en nombre de la iglesia y transmiten la fe de la iglesia”, dijo. †

Papa: Un acto de amor puro es el milagro más grande que se puede realizar CIUDAD DEL VATICANO (CNS) — La oración contemplativa transforma y purifica el corazón humano, dijo el papa Francisco. Ser contemplativo en la oración es un acto de fe y amor, es “el ‘aliento’ de nuestra relación con Dios”, dijo durante su audiencia general semanal el 5 de mayo.

Continuando con su serie de charlas sobre la oración, el papa reflexionó sobre la oración contemplativa, que no es tanto una forma de hacer, “sino una forma de ser”, dijo.

“Ser contemplativo no depende de los ojos, sino del corazón. Y aquí entra en juego la oración como acto de fe y amor” que ofrece el “aliento” de Dios, purificando el corazón y agudizando la mirada para ver el mundo desde otro punto de vista, dijo.

“La contemplación es una mirada de fe, fijada en Jesús.‘Yo lo miro y él me mira’” en la contemplación amorosa, dijo el papa, citando el Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica.

La mirada de Jesús “ilumina los ojos de nuestro corazón y nos enseña a ver todo a la luz de su verdad y su compasión por todos los hombres”, continúa la cita del catecismo.

“Todo proviene de esto, de un corazón que siente que se lo mira con amor”, dijo el papa Francisco.

“Entonces la realidad se contempla con otros ojos”.

No se necesitan muchas palabras, dijo; “Basta una mirada. Basta estar convencido de que nuestra vida está rodeada de un amor inmenso y fiel del que nada nos podrá separar”.

La contemplación y la acción no están reñidas, dijo el papa Francisco.

“Sólo hay una gran llamada en el Evangelio, y es la de seguir a Jesús en el camino del amor”, que es el pináculo y el centro de todo, dijo.

“De esta manera, la caridad y la contemplación dicen lo mismo, y como creía San Juan de la Cruz, un pequeño acto realizado con amor puro “es más valioso para la Iglesia que todas las demás obras juntas”.

El papa Francisco dijo que todo lo que “nace de la oración y no de la presunción de nuestro ego, lo que se purifica con la humildad, aunque sea un acto de amor oculto y silencioso, es el mayor milagro que puede realizar un cristiano”. †

APOYO PASTORAL A VÍCTIMAS DE ABUSO SEXUAL DEL CLERO En un continuo esfuerzo por facilitar atención pastoral a las victimas de abuso sexual del clero o del personal de la Iglesia, el Cardenal DiNardo gustaría recordar a los fieles de la Arquidiócesis la disponibilidad del Coordinador de Ayuda a Víctimas. Si alguien ha sido victim de abuso sexual del clero o del personal de la Iglesia, se les anima llamar a la Diane Vines al 713-654-5799. Por favor rece por la sanación de las víctimas del abuso y por todos los que sufren de alguna manera.

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16 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • MAY 25, 2021

MILESTONES Spirit of charity makes Texas-sized impact for Catholic Charities

PHOTO COURTESY OF CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON

Cynthia N. Colbert, MSW, president of Catholic Charities; George Strake Jr. and Annette Strake of the Strake Foundation; and Ellen Ginty, Catholic Charities board chair attend the Deep in the Heart of Texas Spirit of Charity Luncheon.

MD ANDERSON CANCER CENTER HONORS CHAPLAIN PRIEST

HOUSTON — Guests with hearts as big as Texas put a shine on their cowboy boots and raised nearly $600,000 to support the work of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston at the Deep in the Heart of Texas Spirit of Charity luncheon.

Wearing their Texas business best, attendees got their rodeo fix while helping Catholic Charities’ network of life-changing programs that work together to alleviate poverty.

Luncheon co-chairs Laurel and Jeb Bashaw planned the hybrid event in response to the pandemic, choosing LIFE HTX, a space that supported a visual treat for in-person attendees and those at home watching through live video streaming.

“Catholic Charities is grateful to all of our faithful friends who grabbed their cowboy hats and checkbooks for this event,” said Catholic Charities President Cynthia N. Colbert, MSW. “We are humbled by the generous support that enables us to continue serving people in need. Thanks to donors across the

Archdiocese, we’re able to prevent hunger and homelessness, provide comfort to lonely seniors, welcome refugees and immigrants, and extend our reach to those who struggle during the pandemic.”

Daniel Cardinal DiNardo was honorary chair of the event. Luncheon emcee was KTRK-ABC13’s Tom Koch, who earned a standing ovation from guests to honor him as he approaches retirement.

The celebration honored the Strake Foundation, a legendary philanthropic organization that has earned recognition across Texas, nationwide and even at the Vatican. The Strake Foundation has a long history of support for Catholic and community causes.

“The Strake Foundation has had a profound impact on the quality of life in our city,” said Ellen Ginty, Catholic Charities board chair. “We see it every day at Catholic Charities, where the Strake Foundation supports essential social services that help lift people out of poverty so they can become selfsufficient.” †

MOVIE RATINGS BY CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE Visit www.catholicnews.com/movie-reviews to learn more about these ratings and read movie reviews by Catholics, for Catholics.

A-I – GENERAL PATRONAGE

• Tom & Jerry (PG)

A-II – ADULTS AND ADOLESCENTS • • • •

A Week Away (NR) Francesco (NR) Resurrection (PG-13) The Mitchells vs. the Machines (PG)

A-III – ADULTS

• Dark Waters (PG-13) • Demon Slayer the Movie: Mugen Train (R) • Finding You (PG) • Godzilla vs. Kong (PG-13) • Here Today (PG-13) • Monster (R) • Profile (R) • Roe v. Wade (PG-13) • Those Who Wish Me Dead (R) • Voyagers (PG-13)

L – LIMITED ADULT AUDIENCE • Separation (R)

O – MORALLY OFFENSIVE

• Mortal Kombat (R) • Nobody (R) • Spiral: From the Book of Saw (R) • Wrath of Man (R)

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CATHOLIC CHAPLAIN CORPS

Father Arnel Barrameda, chaplain priest of the Catholic Chaplain Corps of the Archdiocese, recently received the prestigious 2021 Angel Award from MD Anderson Cancer Center. This is an annual award given to worthy recipients in honor of Sister Alice Potts, a beloved sister who served the hospital for 30 years.

LOCAL CATHOLIC NEWS.

WHERE YOU WANT IT. WHEN YOU WANT IT.

AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE Editor’s Note: Contact event organizers for the latest updates and information.

View more listings at www.archgh.org/ata.

JUNE 4

DINNER. 5 to 7 p.m. at Ben’s Chuck Wagon (4104 Polak Rd., Wallis). Catholic Daughters Court Queen of Angels in Wallis host a chicken fried steak dinner. $10 plates include chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans and bread. Pre-orders available through June 1, then first come, first served.

Desserts also available. To order, call 281-3461243 or 832-259-1917.

JUNE 19

HELPERS OF GOD’S PRECIOUS INFANTS, 8 a.m.

Mass at Annunciation (1618 Texas St., Houston) followed by Rosary at Houston Women’s Clinic (4820 San Jacinto St.).

Parking along Caroline St. For more on this event, visit archgh.org/prolife.

JUNE 26

WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/DIGITALEDITIONS

CONFERENCE ON RELIGIOUS FREEDOM, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Prince of Peace (19222

Tomball Pkwy., Houston). Freedom, Faith, and Family conference includes Peter Kreeft and KSHJ’s Tim Motte and Joe McClane.

Registration required: www.pophouston. org/pro-life. Free. fschaeffer@att.net, 281627-0340 or sgallagher@pophouston.org, 281-571-4136.

JUNE 26-27

DINNER, Saturday: 5 to 8 p.m. and Sunday: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; at St. Matthew (9915 Hollister St., Houston). KC Council #7136, hosts a barbecue dinner. $10 plates include sliced beef and sausage, beans and coleslaw.

Pre-orders begin June 7 to 24, then first come, first served. To-go only. To order, call 832-443-4078.

JULY 25-27

MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER WEEKEND, Virtual Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend for married couples to increase love and romance in their marriage and improve their communication. Join from the comfort of home. $100 application fee. Registration and information: www.houstonme.org.