Texas Catholic Herald - June 14, 2022

JUNE 14, 2022 • ARCHGH.ORG/DIGITALEDITIONS COME, HOLY SPIRIT!

1,000-plus adults were confirmed at 8 Masses in the Archdiocese ▪ SEE PAGE 3

A WITNESS TO LIFE

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University of St. Thomas hosts a ‘monument to life’ with a pro-life witness ▪ SEE PAGE 26

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

JUNE 14, 2022

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VOL. 59, NO. 3

MINISTRY

‘SERVANTS OF THE DIGNITY OF THE PRIESTHOOD’

Hot topics on tap for Café Catholica’s young adult summer speaker series

BY JO ANN ZUÑIGA Texas Catholic Herald

PHOTOS BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD

Daniel Cardinal DiNardo lays his hands on Father Jacob Ramirez while presiding over the Mass of Ordination to the Priesthood at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Houston on June 4. Father Luis Garcia, Father Christopher Meyer and Father Ramirez were ordained to the priesthood. FOR MORE PHOTOS, SEE PAGE 4.

HOUSTON — Dynamic local and national speakers are headlining on July Mondays and Aug. 1 for Café Catholica.

The annual event brings together young adults 18 through 39.

“We’re looking forward to another awesome program for 2022. Our theme of Real Presence has a dual purpose of focusing first on the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist and second on our call as Catholics to be a real presence to the people in our lives,” said Angie Pometto, director of the Office of Young Adult and Campus Ministry.

Father Dat Hoang, pastor at St. Faustina Catholic Church in Fulshear, will kick off See CAFÉ CATHOLICA, page 5

PRIESTS OF THE LORD

Archdiocese rejoices for three new priests

BY JAMES RAMOS Texas Catholic Herald

HOUSTON — They entered as deacons and departed as A JOURNEY priests.

OF Father Luis Garcia, Father Christopher Meyer and Father VOCATIONS Jacob Ramirez were ordained to the priesthood by Daniel Cardinal Dinardo at the CoCathedral of the Sacred Heart in Houston on June 4.

More than 1,200 turned out to witness the occasion, including many beloved family, friends, former teachers, and even a handful of bishops, including Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, Austin’s Bishop Joe S. Vásquez, and San Jose Bishop Oscar Cantú.

The Mass, already rich in deep symbolism and tradition, carried several intimate and unique moments for the three new priests.

During the investiture of the new ordained priests’ See PRIESTHOOD, page 4

THE FIRST WORD † 3

A WORLD WIDE OPEN

Students of the Class of 2022 from area Catholic high schools overcame four years of change and challenges to step into a world wide open ▪ SEE PAGES 16 & 17

A HEART FOR UVALDE At top, Father Ramirez kisses his stole presented by his uncle, Bishop Oscar Cantú of the Diocese of San Jose.

Above, Father TJ Dolce, second from right, smiles as Father Christopher Meyer greets Father Paul Foltyn.

| YOUTH † 18

|

ESPAÑOL † 24 |

There’s still ‘goodness in people,’ San Antonio archbishop tells Uvalde Catholics ▪ SEE PAGE 23

MILESTONES † 28

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ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • JUNE 14, 2022

Pope: Interreligious dialogue is built on respect, sharing VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Without dialogue, respect for differences and a recognition that all people have struggles and dreams, divisions and even violence between people will continue, Pope Francis said.

“Our increasingly interconnected world is not fraternal and convivial, far from it!” the pope said on June 6 as he welcomed members of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue, who were holding their plenary meeting at the Vatican.

Pope Francis told the group he was especially pleased to welcome them the day after Pentecost because it was on Pentecost in 1964 that St. Paul VI announced the formation of the dicastery’s predecessor, the Secretariat for Non-Christians.

“How far the Spirit has come in almost 60 years,” the pope said. His predecessor was inspired to recognize the importance of the Church’s involvement in dialogue given the rapid increase of ties “between people and communities of different cultures, languages and religions — an aspect of what we now call globalization.”

The importance of the dicastery has not lessened, he said. “On the contrary, globalization and the acceleration of international communications make dialogue in general and interreligious dialogue, in particular, a crucial question.”

The plenary session was focusing on dialogue and “conviviality,” a choice Pope Francis praised because it focuses on the concrete experience of people, with all their similarities and differences, living together.

As a service of the Church, he said, the dicastery has the mission of promoting “with other believers, in a fraternal and convivial way, the journey of the search for God, considering people of other religions not abstractly, but concretely, as having a history,

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Pope Francis greets a bishop during an audience with members of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue at the Vatican June 6. Dialogue and respect for others, especially members of other religions, is the only alternative to increased “social fragmentation and violence,” the pope said.

desires, wounds, dreams.”

“Only in this way can we build together a habitable world for all, in peace,” he said.

“Faced with the succession of crises and conflicts, ‘some people attempt to flee from reality, taking refuge in their own little world; others react to it with destructive violence. Yet between selfish indifference and violent protest, there is always another possible option: that of dialogue,’” he said, quoting from “Fratelli Tutti,” his 2020 encyclical.

“Conviviality,” he said, means recognizing and giving value to the unique identity and beliefs of each person.

“In this sense, it has political relevance as an alternative to social fragmentation

and conflict,” he said.

“I encourage all of you to cultivate the spirit and style of conviviality in your relationships with people of other religious traditions — we need it so much today in the Church and in the world,” he said.

To those who object to such openness, Pope Francis replied that “the Lord Jesus fraternized with everyone, He spent time with people who were considered sinful and unclean, He shared the table of publicans without prejudice. And during a convivial meal (the Last Supper), He showed Himself as the faithful servant and friend to the end, and then as the risen One, the living One who gives us the grace of universal conviviality.” †

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THE HOLY FATHER’S PRAYER INTENTIONS — FOR JUNE Scan to watch a video from Pope Francis

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PRAYER INTENTION: FAMILIES This month, we pray for Christian families around the world; may they embody and experience unconditional love and advance in holiness in their daily lives.

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THE FIRST WORD PHOTOS BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD

PASTORAL APPOINTMENTS

Effective May 6 Father Peter Tan Viet Nguyen Ministering at the St. Le Thi Thanh Retreat Center, Waller Father Fabio dos Santos da Hora, SCJ Parochial Vicar – Our Lady of Guadalupe Effective June 1 Father Lukose Manuel Parochial Vicar – Notre Dame, Houston

“BE SEALED WITH THE GIFT OF HOLY SPIRIT” More than 1,000 confirmed at Pentecost celebrations HOUSTON — Guadalupe... Joan of Arc...

Miguel Pro... These were just a few of the saints chosen by more than 1,000 Catholics across the Archdiocese as confirmation saints.

Exactly 1,007 people received the

Sacrament of Confirmation across eight Masses at several parishes in the Archdiocese, including St. Helen in Pearland, Epiphany of the Lord in Katy, the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, St. Mary Magdalene in Humble, Mary Queen in Friendswood and Christ the Redeemer in June to celebrate the Solemnity of Pentecost with adult confirmations.

One by one, either Daniel Cardinal

DiNardo or Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, greeted each candidate in English or Spanish, saying “Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit,” and “Peace be with you.”

With spirits of joy, reverence and grace, the confirmandi responded “Amen” and “And with your spirit,” embracing a new step in their faith as Catholics.

To see more photos and a slideshow, visit www.archgh.org/pentecost22. †

A PENTECOST REFLECTION

Effective July 1 Father Vincente Agila Pastor – Notre Dame, Houston Father Eli Lopez Pastor – All Saints Parish, Houston Father Jorge Cabrera Administrator – St. Jerome Parish, Clute Father Justin Cormie Administrator – Our Lady of Fatima, Galena Park Father Giovani Hung Nguyen Administrator – St. Stanislaus, Anderson and Christ Our Light, Navasota Father Daniel Alloy, FSSP Parochial Vicar – Regina Caeli, Houston Father Jose Alonso Parochial Vicar – Holy Family, Galveston Father Luis Garcia Parochial Vicar – St. Helen, Pearland Father Christopher Meyer Parochial Vicar – St. Faustina, Fulshear Father David Michael Moses Parochial Vicar – Christ the Good Shepherd, Spring Father Peter T. Nguyen Parochial Vicar – Vietnamese Martyrs, Houston Father Joseph Phong Nguyen Parochial Vicar – St. Justin Martyr, Houston Father Jacob Ramirez Parochial Vicar – Sacred Heart, Conroe Father Joseph White Parochial Vicar – St. John Vianney, Houston Father Peter Wood Parochial Vicar – St. Michael the Archangel, Houston Father Jaison George Mangalath, SVD Pastor – St. Mary of the Purification, Houston

IN BRIEF AYC registration underway

The Church with her heart which embraces all human hearts implores from the Holy Spirit that happiness which only in God has its complete realization: the joy ‘that no one will be able to take away,’ the joy which is the fruit of love, and therefore of God who is love; she implores ‘the righteousness, the peace and the joy of the Holy Spirit’ in which, in the words of St. Paul, consists the Kingdom of God.” - ST. JOHN PAUL II (Dominum et Vivificantem, 296-297)

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HOUSTON — The 2022 Archdiocesan Youth Conference (AYC), set for July 29 to 31 at the Hilton Americas Hotel, gathers participants — both youth and adults — from all over the local Church.

This year’s theme is “Everlasting Mercy,” based on the Scripture reference Luke 49-50. Major presenters include Catholic illusionist and youth speaker Danny Ray; Father David Michael Moses and Sister Josephine Garrett, CSFN. To register, visit www.archgh.org/oace. †

Catholic Charities’ food distributions continue at three locations

HOUSTON — Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston offers food assistance at three locations that are open for drive-thru food distribution.

In Houston, drive-thru distributions at the Guadalupe Center, at 326 S. Jensen St., are on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. No appointment needed.

The Beacon of Hope Center, located at 4700 Broadway, Suite F-103 in Galveston, hosts drive-thru distributions on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month, starting at 9 a.m. No appointment is required. Call 409-762-2064 for more information.

In Fort Bend, The Mamie George Community Center, located at 1111 Collins Rd. in Richmond, is a Houston Food Bank super distribution site. Register by texting "HFBPS" to 855-788-3663, then select "Catholic Charities — Richmond." Drive-thru distributions are on Tuesdays, from 5 to 7 p.m., and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. The Center also hosts monthly food fairs; for help, call 281-202-6200.

For more, visit www.catholiccharities.org/food or call the Catholic Charities COVID Assistance Line at 713-874-6521. †

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Archdiocesan Choir Concert The Rome Pilgrimage Pre-Tour Concert is set for June 17 at All Saints parish. ▪ SEE PAGE 26

Cardinal DiNardo to new priests: Be ‘men of gratitude’

PHOTOS BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD

At left, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo ordains Father Luis Garcia during a Mass of Ordination to the Priesthood at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Houston on June 4.

Above, Father Luis Garcia, Father Christopher Meyer and Father Jacob Ramirez lay prostrate on the floor of the Co-Cathedral.

At right, members of each priest’s family process with the chalice that is presented to each newly ordained priest during the Mass of Ordination to the priesthood.

PRIESTHOOD, from page 1 stole and chasuble, Father Ramirez was vested by his uncle Bishop Cantú and his brother, Father Nicolas Ramirez, pastor at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church in Houston.

Father Meyer was vested by his high school theology teacher, Father Mark Thibodeaux, SJ, while Father Garcia was vested by Father Norbert Maduzia, pastor of St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church in Spring, where Father Garcia had previously assisted with Liturgy and Sacraments.

‘PRIESTS OF THE LORD’ In his homily, Cardinal DiNardo said the newly ordained priests would leave the ordination Mass as “priests of the Lord.”

“Show your love, feed the sheep,” he said. “Jesus was always very simple in giving responses about the most complex theological issues. How does the priest

► SEE MORE PHOTOS ONLINE To see more photos and special slideshow, visit WWW. ARCHGH.ORG/PRIESTHOOD22 or scan the QR code. show he’s a priest? Feed the sheep. It’s very simple, but of course, in practice, that’s very difficult.”

Even in the face of challenges, Cardinal DiNardo reminded the priests that they were never alone.

“Turn to Jesus’s mother (Mary), who always gives the same words, but in wonderful, varying ways: ‘Do whatever He tells you,’” he said. “Please stay close to her. As you stay close to her, also stay close to your fellow brothers in the priesthood.”

ACTING WITH GENEROUS PATIENCE Cardinal DiNardo told the three men

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that the community begged “the Church’s prayer upon you as you pursue your priestly life.”

“Remember, when you gather men and women into the people of God through Baptism, the name of Christ, and especially when you draw people into forgiveness in the work of Reconciliation, a work that is particularly yours as priests, do it well, do it generously, do it with patience,” Cardinal DiNardo said. “And be attentive to the weak and the sick.”

He also reminded the three new priests of the journey of growth that lay ahead.

“Even if you already think you know everything right now, you will discover, in a few weeks, you don’t,” he said. “I started this homily by talking about gratitude.

Gratitude to your family, gratitude to your seminary formation, gratitude for the gifts of the Sacraments that you will celebrate, gratitude to all your people, the ones with whom you try to make the kingdom of God really palpable in the world.”

SHOW GRATITUDE, BE GRATITUDE Cardinal DiNardo pointed to Pope Francis, who often reminds the faithful, including priests, of the importance of gratitude when living “in a synodal way of life, that is a way of accompaniment for others.”

Since the beginning of his pontificate, the pope has continually called for a Church, with her priests, to walk with and accompany others through life.

“Without God’s revealing grace, insight is not possible. We must be careful not to get locked into the world of our own human natural powers.

Our technological world powers, they pose a special problem in this regard.

Founded on a deep appreciation for what the Lord has done, show gratitude,

IN BRIEF

Corpus Christi collection supports future priests

HOUSTON — The Archdiocese continues to prepare the men who will shepherd the city’s rapidly growing 1.7 million Catholics at St. Mary’s Seminary.

On the Feast of Corpus Christi, which will be celebrated Sunday, June 19, the total offertory in the second collection of every parish in the Archdiocese will support the formation of seminarians of the Archdiocese studying at St. Mary’s or at other seminaries. It will also support the operation of St. Mary’s Seminary and the formation of seminarians of the religious communities who serve in our Archdiocese.

Daniel Cardinal DiNardo has said that the need for more priests continues to be crucial for the growth of the Catholic faith in world and in the Archdiocese.

To learn more about St. Mary’s Seminary, visit www.smseminary.com. † be gratitude.”

Cardinal DiNardo closed his homily by reminding the newly ordained of his prayers, saying: “I ask that the Lord bless you and make you men of gratitude as you come forward and are ordained for service in the Church.”

The new priests were set to begin their new pastoral ministries in the Archdiocese.

Father Luis Garcia will serve as parochial vicar at St. Helen Catholic Church in Pearland, while Father Jacob Ramirez will serve as parochial vicar at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Conroe.

Father Christopher Meyer will serve as parochial vicar at St. Faustina Catholic Church in Fulshear. †

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Annual summer speaker series kicks off on July 11 CAFÉ CATHOLICA, from page 1 the Monday night series on July 11 this year at the Catholic Charismatic Center off the Gulf Freeway at 1949 Cullen Blvd.

His topic will be “God’s Presence through Life’s Absences.”

Another highlight is Spirit Night on July 18, where young adults can show their spirit for their favorite sports team, university or fandom. That night Meg Hunter-Kilmer, national speaker and blogger, will take the audience in a deep dive into the lives of new saints in modern times.

“I’m a Catholic, madly in love with the Lord, His word, His bride the Church, and especially His body, blood, soul, and divinity in the Eucharist,” Hunter-Kilmer says on her website. “After two degrees in theology and five years teaching in the classroom, I quit my nine-to-five to follow Christ more literally. Since May of 2012, I’ve been a hobo for Christ; I live out of my car and travel the country speaking to youth and adults, giving retreats, blogging, and trying to rock the world for Jesus.”

One of her posts on the blog, “Held by His Pierced Hands,” suggests to young parents to help their children transition from their favorite superhero or Disney princess to their favorite saints.

CAFÉ CATHOLICA: AT A GLANCE DATES: LOCATION: SCHEDULE:

Mondays starting July 11, 18, 25 and Aug. 1 Catholic Charismatic Center - 1949 Cullen Blvd., Houston 5:15 p.m. Confession available 6:15 p.m. Mass 7:15 p.m. dinner 8:15 p.m. Speaker begins

July 11: Father Dat Hoang, pastor at St. Faustina in Fulshear, will kick off the Monday night series with “God’s Presence through Life’s Absences.”

July 18: National speaker and blogger Meg Hunter-Kilmer, on “The Presence of Christi in the Lives of Saints.” Spirit Night, when young adults can show their spirit for their favorite sports team, university or fandom.

July 25: Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, a strong supporter of young people in the Church, will open his Monday session to the audience for a question-and-answer opportunity.

Aug. 1: Edward Herrera, who formerly served at St. Michael Catholic Church in Houston, is executive director for the Archdiocese’ Of Baltimore’s Institute for Evangelization, speaking on “Holy Desire: Theology of the Body and the Eucharist.”

Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, a strong supporter of young people in the Church, will open his Monday session on July 25 to the audience for a question-andanswer opportunity.

Edward Herrera, who formerly served at St. Michael Catholic Church in Houston, is now at the Archdiocese of Baltimore and will headline Aug. 1.

Herrera, previously director of the

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Office of Marriage and Family Life in Baltimore, is now executive director for the Maryland Archdiocese’s Institute for Evangelization. He will be speaking on “Holy Desire: Theology of the Body and the Eucharist.”

The schedule for each of the Mondays opens with Confession available at 5:15

p.m.; Mass at 6:15 p.m.; dinner at 7:15 p.m. and speaker at 8:15 p.m. No registration is required.

There is also a new component to Café Catholica called Café Connect on social media, Pometto said.

“For 2022, we especially want to invite all young adults to consider participating in a Café Connect Discussion Group.

These groups began during COVID-19 as a way to help people connect, and it’s been so successful that we are continuing to offer it in conjunction with Café Catholica,” she said.

“We have more than 20 groups available to join, so people will be able to choose a time and location (in-person and online options available) that works for them. Even if someone can’t attend the main event on Monday nights, they’ll still be able to join a Café Connect group and go deeper into the topics discussed and meet other Catholic young adults from around the Archdiocese,” Pometto explained.

She added, “We especially want to welcome any new young adults to Café Catholica, including the recently graduated high school seniors, current college students, and any recent college graduates as well as those returning.” †

Congratulations Mariam Henderson, Home-School Poet Laureate 2022

Spiritual Works of Mercy S is for the start of the soul’s spiritual journey, P is for the peace received when seeking the Lord wholly.

I is for the invitation to spread the Lord’s mercy.

R is for responding to the Lord and accepting our merciful role, I is for the immediate joy received after helping a soul.

T is for truly believing that Our Lord is right, U is for the universal call to spread the gospel of light.

A is for the amazing grace God gives us to fulfill His call, L is for the Love required to bring mercy to all.

W is for the wonderful works used to teach those who don’t know, O is for the opportunity to tell what Jesus did many years ago.

R is for the radical call to live our lives with mercy.

K is for the King of Kings that leads us on our journey.

S is for the service we are all called to do for God, O is for obeying even when the command is odd.

F is for the faithful filled with God’s grace, M is for the miracles preformed for every race.

E is for the education that enlightens minds to see, R is for reconciliation and forgiveness given willingly.

C is for the courage God gives our interior soul, Y is for the yes to spread God’s mercy with our all.

Mariam Henderson

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Galveston Mass opens 175th anniversary celebrations City of Galveston honors Archdiocese with May proclamation

BY JAMES RAMOS Texas Catholic Herald GALVESTON — Perhaps it was no better time to pray the Memorare.

Just shy of a week before hurricane season’s arrival on June 1, and a day before the tragedy in Uvalde, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo implored his fellow priests ― more than 160 in total ― to turn to the Blessed Mother in an urgent prayer for protection from life’s unexpected storms.

Cardinal DiNardo celebrated a special Mass at St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica in Galveston on May 23 to signal an official opening of the 175th anniversary of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston.

From the pulpit in the mother church of the Archdiocese and of the Catholic Church of Texas, Cardinal DiNardo encouraged the priests of the Archdiocese to “love your people with a mystical heart.”

In his homily, he shared a brief history of the Archdiocese, which marks its 175th anniversary in 2022.

“On May 4, 1847, this little church began,” Cardinal DiNardo said. “It transformed from a vicariate into a massive territory in the diocese,” which encompassed land in Oklahoma, Colorado and Mexico, some 315,000 square miles and 20,000 Catholics.

He recalled how Bishop Claude Dubuis began ministries with just 12 priests during the creation of the diocese.

“I don’t think that anyone who lives in Texas in 1847 would have imagined what would happen to the Catholic Church,” Cardinal DiNardo said.

He lauded the “farsightedness” of Bishop Nicolas Gallagher, the third bishop of Galveston who brought many religious congregations to the diocese and opened parishes and schools for the region’s underserved and underrepresented communities during a time of tremendous growth and devastation from the 1900 hurricane that destroyed Galveston.

GROWTH FROM DESTRUCTION In 1886, Bishop Gallagher opened the first Catholic school for African Americans and also opened several parishes for that same community like

PHOTO BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD

At left, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo preaches a homily while presiding over a special 175th anniversary Mass at St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica in Galveston May 25. At right, some 160 priests from around the Archdiocese joined Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, to concelebrate the Mass.

St. Nicholas in Houston, with others in Beaumont and Port Arthur.

Cardinal DiNardo noted how Bishop Gallagher was buried in the Cathedral Basilica, perhaps a presence that continues to inspire today.

In addition, Cardinal DiNardo recalled how the diocese had prepared a large celebration for the 100th anniversary but ultimately chose to cancel the centennial events because of the Texas City disaster.

It was the nation’s deadliest industrial accident and claimed nearly 600 lives, including Father William Roach, pastor of nearby St. Mary of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church in Texas City.

Cardinal DiNardo also remembered the efforts of the Ursuline Sisters, just some of the many women religious who planted seeds of Catholic education, catechesis and healthcare in Texas and eventually the nation.

HEARTS FOR THE PEOPLE “Today, we gather in great thanksgiving for what has happened to the Church over 175 years,” Cardinal DiNardo said.

He reflected on a few keystones of the priesthood: the Eucharist, confessions and ministering to the faithful of the Church.

As a point of inspiration for priests to walk with their parishioners, Cardinal DiNardo pointed to the works of Catholic Charities who walks with families, many shattered by the horrors of war and unimaginable difficulty.

He implored the clergy to remain steadfast in strength with the Sacrament of Reconciliation, even in the face of long lines and related challenges.

“Keep your mystical heart in Jesus, and

FROM GALVESTON TO TEXAS AND BEYOND PHOTO BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD

Galveston Mayor Craig Brown, with Galveston’s City Council, welcomed Daniel Cardinal DiNardo and Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, to share a Galveston city proclamation for the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston’s 175th anniversary at Galveston City Hall on May 27. Cardinal DiNardo gave the council meeting’s invocation and accepted the proclamation.

you’ll be surprised,” there will be much room there, he said.

Reflecting on the Gospel, Cardinal DiNardo said: “No branch exists alone. The branch and branches together exist as part of the body. He is that body. But Jesus has a real mystical heart and He wants us to be there. ... Do the breaking of bread well, hear confessions, love your people with a mystical heart. If we do that, maybe 150

years from now, it will all work out.”

Cardinal DiNardo closed his homily with a prayer, saying: “May the Lord entrust us all in His Church to the love of the Father, through the mystical heart of Jesus and ... unite our hearts with the Holy Spirit.”

For more about the 175th anniversary of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, visit www.archgh.org/175. †

We are hiring!

If you have a passion for helping those-in-need and would like to work for a faith-based organization, this could be the opportunity you have been looking for.

All positions will report to our Central Office at 2403 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77021.

Positions available: • Chief Program Officer (Full-Time) • Fundraising and Communications Associate (Full-Time) • Human Resources Administrator (Part-Time) Scan the QR code for a description of each job position.

We will only review those applications submitted through our online portal. www.svdphouston.org/careers

8 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • JUNE 14, 2022

JUNE 14, 2022 • ARCHGH.ORG/DIGITALEDITIONS

texas catholic herald

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10 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • JUNE 14, 2022

C L A S S OF 2 0 2 2

Please join the Sisters of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament, the IWA Board of Advisors, faculty and staff in extending congratulations and prayers for the IWA Class of 2022!

Nia Lauryn Alexander Alexandria Zoie Alvarez Phoebe Grant Aston Gabrielle Therese Beckham Britney Rhame Bell Ana Sofia Bello Maya Benavides Ela Sophia Betancourt Rose Bieszke Madeleine Grace Bourgeois Liliana Sophia Cantu Mea Meshell Carrasco Lauren Alysse Castex Makenzie Castillo Emily Lauren Chaires Ashley Nicole Chavez Eva Victoria Cheng Carson Elizabeth Chesnut Isabella Sabine Coenen

Kathryn Douglass Conti Fiona Roisin Cosgrove Nicole Marie Cross Evelyn Camille Lara de Oliveira Olivia Morgen Heckler Dickens Jizelle lliana Dominguez Sophia Nicole Dominguez Elizabeth Marie Drake Leah Darlene Dumanlang Anna Lee Eckelkamp Chimere Lotachukwu Egesi Alessa Nabil Elkareh Melody Nicole Faust Mariana Elizabeth Ferrel Lillian E. Fisher Persia-Marie Manyi Fombin Denver Alia Fowler Celine Maree Garcia Claire Marie Garcia

91

total graduates

Kiara Jade Garcia Emily Mireille Gentry Audrey Elizabeth Gillespie Emily Elizabeth Green Elizabeth Grace Hatten Vivian Hernandez Amelia Karynne Horner Vanessa Hosman Ciara Maree Juanico Makynzie Kitzmann Erin Nicole Koehler Hannah Koepp Kathryn Elisabeth Koerner Emilie Katheryn Lynch Jordan Ashley Mahoney

Olivia Jules Mallett Gabrielle Marie Mamaradlo Klarissa Renee Martinez Isabel Mejias Paola Fernanda Minces Gabrielle Nicole Murray Evalyn ShuWen Navarro Ann Nguyen Emma Kim-Thoa Nguyen Gabriella Nguyen Sarah Isabel De La Rosa Olmos Kennedy Marie Parker Kalee Jo Peters Tam Thanh Phan Sarah Miriam Popeney Elise Nicole Potier Fabiola Pulido Emily Catherine Quin Gemma Catherine Rabo

139

42

acceptances to colleges and universities

Lauren Maré Richards Isabella Victoria Rivera-Molina Alexandra Nadejda Robey Kaitlyn Elizabeth Rzasnicki Skylah Nevaeh Saracho Isabella Elena Smetana Colleen Marie Sontheimer Isabella Alexandra Terracini Auburn Taylor Thomas Maya Noor Tihami Antonina Tkaczyk Lauren Gabrielle Trahan Mary Caroline Turner Alyson A. Ubungen Mary Elizabeth Tulud Uyenco Jheilin Vasquez Ellia Therese Volf Abigail Bernadette Waggoner Emma Jessica Welsch

attending top-ranked colleges and universities

$11.1+ million in scholarships and awards

2022 College acceptances include: Auburn University Baylor University Brown University Clemson University College of Wooster Colorado School of Mines Drexel University Emory University Fordham University

Incarnate Word Academy

Hofstra University Howard University Louisiana State University Loyola University New Orleans Middlebury College Mississippi State University Northeastern University Pace University Purdue University

|

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Rice University Savannah College of Art and Design Spelman College Texas A&M University Texas Tech University The Catholic University of America The Pennsylvania State University The University of Texas at Austin

609 Crawford Street, Houston TX 77002

|

713.227.3637

Trinity University Tulane University United States Military Academy West Point University of Chicago University of Connecticut University of Pennsylvania University of the Incarnate Word Villanova University Washington University in St. Louis

| www.incarnateword.org

JUNE 14, 2022 • ARCHGH.ORG/DIGITALEDITIONS

texas catholic herald

IN MEMORIA

OBITUARY

Pray for the following priests whose anniversaries of death are during the month of July.

July 1, 1993 July 2, 1991 July 4, 1888 July 4, 1989 July 4, 1992 July 5, 1895 July 5, 1984 July 6, 1927 July 7, 1939 July 8, 1920 July 8, 2002 July 9, 1930 July 9, 2005 July 10, 1989 July 10, 2003 July 11, 2002 July 12, 1968 July 12, 1980 July 13, 1999 July 14, 1962 July 14, 2014 July 15, 1970 July 15, 1985

11

Rev. Anthony T. Orlando Rev. Edbert Staresinic, OCarm Rev. Pierre Dumont Rev. Justin O’Connell, OCarm Rev. Rene M. Vermillion, CSB Rev Patrick Kellett Msgr. Thomas M. Cemon Rev. M.J. Crowe Rev. Patrick J. O’Reilly, CSC Rev. Michael Martin Crowe Rev. Guy Fregeau Rev. James Chaland Rev. Walter N. Sheffield Rev. John D. Oster, SJ Msgr. C.J. Alleman Rev. Warren J. Freret Rev. A.M. Maechler Rev. John C. McDonald, MS Rev. Angelo Moscato, cs Rev. Eugene Burbott, CSB Rev. Charles Lynch,CSB Rev. Chester C. Ball, SSJ Rev. Peter S. Harnett

July 15, 2008 July 16, 1960 July 16, 1962 July 17, 1932 July 17, 1994 July 18, 1943 July 18, 1996 July 18, 2002 July 18, 2002 July 19, 1947 July 19, 2001 July 19, 2011 July 19, 2013 July 20, 1918 July 22, 2002 July 23, 2009 July 24, 2000 July 25, 1968 July 26, 1988 July 29, 2011 July 30, 2001 July 31, 1997 July 31, 2001

Rev. John LaBauve, SVD Msgr. Matthew J. Daly Rev. Joseph G. Robinson Rev. John Joseph Harte Bishop Enrique San Pedro, SJ Rev. R.C. Frei Rev. John Nijenhuis, OCarm Rev. Eugene Gillece Rev. Clifton J. Natho Rev. Louis A. LeBlanc Rev. Ralph G. Schmidt, Jr. Rev. Richard DiLeo, SCJ Rev. Bernard C. Snock Rev. William J. Lee Rev. J.B. Huynh Ngoc Tran Msgr. Leroy H. Braden Rev. Thomas D. Sheehan, OP Rev. William B. O’Toole, CSB Rev. Rodney Poythress Rev. Frank W. Jones Rev. Alvin F. Dixon, SVD Msgr. Gilbert F. Pekar Rev. John O’Rourke, SSJ

Sister Mary Laura Rembold, O.P.

HOUSTON — Sister Mary Laura Rembold, O.P., died May 25. She was 79 years old.

Sister Rembold served in education ministry at Assumption School and Queen of Peace School before moving to California to teach in Catholic schools there. Upon her retirement in 2017, she returned to Houston to live with the community where she continued ministering to others. Her congregational service included her ministry as receptionist at St. Dominic Villa, driving sisters to appointments, giving mission appeals in the Archdiocese, helping with donor appreciation and attending to many other needs of the community.

A funeral Mass was celebrated on Monday, May 30, at St. Dominic Villa Chapel. †

St. Bernadette relics to visit Houston parish in July

HOUSTON — The relics of St. Bernadette Soubirous are set to visit a Houston parish on Saturday, July 16 through Monday, July 18.

The Cathedral of Our Lady of Walsingham, located at 7809 Shadyvilla Lane in Houston, will host a relic visit by the French saint during a series of events that include Masses, the anointing of the sick, a Mass with Lourdes water, a virtual pilgrimage program to Lourdes in English and Spanish, a candlelight procession and Rosary to the Marian shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham, as well as public veneration of the relics in the church.

The relic tour visits from the Our Lady of Lourdes Sanctuary in France, where the 10-year-old saint encountered the Blessed Mother in 18 apparitions in 1858. There, a miraculous spring would flow that still draws millions of pilgrims today.

The Vatican has granted a plenary indulgence for those who attend. To learn more about the visit, and to see the full schedule with times, visit www.stbernadetteusa.org/houston. †

Expand and deepen our hearts . . .

We pray for all victims of violence everywhere and their families, and we pray for those being executed in Texas and their families:

July 13: Ramiro Gonzales

In 1866, the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word arrived in Galveston with a mission to heal “the sick and infirm of every kind.” In 1887, they expanded their reach with St. Joseph’s Infirmary, Houston’s first general hospital.

It started with a call to care for the underserved, and over 150 years later the mission continues.

Today, CHRISTUS St. Mary’s Clinic continues the mission by providing primary and mental healthcare to uninsured and underserved patients of Houston’s East End and beyond.

Directed by Sister Rosanne Popp, M.D., CHRISTUS St. Mary’s Clinic respects every individual and treats our community with dignity and compassion.

To learn how you can be a part

of our mission, scan the QR code.

CHRISTUS Foundation for HealthCare is a 501(c)3 non-profit, relying on the generous support of individuals like you.

12 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

Congratulations Class of 2022 Audrey Elizabeth Abbott Emma Avery Ambrose Bridget Elizabeth Anders Christina Annette Balboa Alyssa Balderas Grace Indya Barry Rose Katherine Barry Mimansa Clare Bhalla Emily Miriam Biegler Brooke Katherine Blanton Madaline Jamison Bolin Meredith Elise Brosig Nia Chanel Brown Mariana Campos Mancera Elisa Camille Castano Emma Jules Castro Manon Amapola del Vecchio Sarah Elisa Diaz Perdomo Liliana Grace Donaldson Caitlin Elizabeth Doyle Grace Elizabeth Edmonds Sydney Grace Fitzgerald Gabrielle Alexis Fuentes Madeline Jane Funk Olivia Faith Garrett Bushra Imtiaz Chaudhry Goraya Elizabeth Grace Haney Sophia Danielle Hellman Hallin Nicole Hopkins Jennie Alexis Hourican Kristen Rebecca Huggins Rosemary Juen Johnson Helena Grace Khuri Maeve Margaret Klenke Alicia Denisse Lyon Carolina Maruri Caitlyn Alexis McConnell Mary Grace Meyer Gia Elizabeth Montalbano Savannah Isabella Brigitte Mouillé Lucia Elder Raborn Sophia Marie Reininger Julia Lauren Rushton Gianna Santasiero Julianne Marron Sellers Anna Marie Charlotte Smith Isabella Caitlyn Smith Colette Claire Frances Sprigg Nyla Savannah Staes Abigail Beth Thompson Molly Agnes Thompson Lindsey Carole Watson Olivia Grace Jia-Wun Watson Alyson Louise Wolf Isabella Bernadette Zamora

duchesne.org

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • JUNE 14, 2022

Houston’s Catholic, identity-forming, college-prep school for girls age three through grade 12

Class of 2022 College Acceptances

The Class of 2022 graduates earned more than $8.5 million in merit-based scholarships and were accepted to 125 colleges and universities: Agnes Scott College Allegheny College American University Arizona State University Auburn University Babson College Baylor University Belmont University Blinn College Bryn Mawr College Case Western Reserve University Clark University Clemson University College of William & Mary Colorado Mesa University Colorado School of Mines Colorado State University Concordia College, Moorhead Connecticut College Cornell University Dalhousie University Denison University DePaul University Drake University Drexel University Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Prescott Emerson College Fisk University Florida Memorial University Fordham University Franklin W Olin College of Engineering George Washington University Gettysburg College Gonzaga University Goucher College Hawaii Pacific University Hofstra University Howard University Kenyon College KU Leuven Lehigh University Lewis & Clark College

Liberty University Louisiana State University Loyola University Chicago Loyola University Maryland Loyola University New Orleans Merrimack College Missouri University of Science and Technology Mount Holyoke College Nazareth College New York University Northeastern University Northwestern University Pennsylvania State University Pratt Institute Purdue University Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Rhodes College Rochester Institute of Technology Rollins College Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology Saint Edward’s University Saint Louis University Saint Louis University, Madrid Samford University Santa Clara University Shenandoah University Southern Methodist University Southwestern University Spelman College St. John’s University St. Mary’s University Stevens Institute of Technology Stockholm School of Economics Syracuse University Texas A & M University, College Station Texas Christian University Texas State University Texas Tech University Trinity University Tulane University University College Dublin University of Alabama

University of Alabama, Birmingham University of Arizona University of Arkansas University of Central Arkansas University of Colorado, Boulder University of Dallas University of Denver University of Georgia University of Houston University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign University of Kansas University of Mary Washington University of Miami University of Mississippi University of Nevada, Las Vegas University of New Mexico University of North Texas University of Northern Colorado University of Notre Dame University of Oklahoma University of Oregon University of Pittsburgh University of Richmond University of Rochester University of Southern California University of St. Thomas University of Tennessee, Knoxville University of Texas, Arlington University of Texas, Austin University of Texas, San Antonio University of the Incarnate Word University of the Pacific University of the South University of Utah University of Vermont Valencia College Vanderbilt University Washington and Lee University Washington University in St Louis Worcester Polytechnic Institute Xavier University of Louisiana

JUNE 14, 2022 • ARCHGH.ORG/DIGITALEDITIONS

texas catholic herald

13

Archdiocese traces its roots to mid 1800s in forming men for the priesthood

BY KERRY MCGUIRE Herald Correspondent HOUSTON — As the Archdiocese recognizes its 175th anniversary this year, St. Mary’s Seminary is one of its original ministries founded in the mid1800s.

St. Mary’s Seminary is a theologate for the personal, spiritual, academic and pastoral preparation of men for the Roman Catholic priesthood. Its origins date back to 1901, when St. Mary’s Seminary was established in La Porte. It was then the only Catholic seminary in the state of Texas.

In September of 1954, it was relocated to its present site at 9845 Memorial Drive in Houston. There it primarily serves those men preparing for the diocesan priesthood in the south and southwestern parts of the U.S., reflecting the diversity of peoples and cultures in the Catholic population.

The ministry in the Archdiocese that currently oversees the care and overall well-being of the seminarians enrolled at St. Mary’s is the Office of Vocations, which was founded in 1964. The current director, Father Richard McNeillie, said approximately 44 men are currently enrolled — a number that has steadily increased in recent years.

As one of more than 60 ministries that receive support from the Diocesan Services Fund (DSF), Father McNeillie said these funds are the lifeline of the Office of Vocation’s operations to support the seminarians.

He said when the faithful give to the DSF, they directly support their future priests and religious, and young people in the Archdiocese who are discerning their

The 2022 Diocesan Services Fund theme draws from 1 Corinthians: “All For the Glory of God.” DSF operates in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston each year to help the Church carry out the ministries of teaching and sanctifying.

DSF brings the needed financial resources to carry out 60-plus ministries.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ARCHIVES OFFICE

St. Mary’s Seminary, pictured here in 1906, was moved to the banks of Galveston Bay in LaPorte in October 1900, one month after the Great Storm of 1900 devastated Galveston.

vocational call.

“The Office of Vocations is the Office of Seminarians,” said Father McNeillie.

“We take care of all the seminarians while in formation, including their tuition, room and board that are completely DSF funded. I want to give a big thank you to those whose support enables us to help these men to become the amazing priests this Archdiocese needs.”

Viet Nguyen, a seminarian at St. Mary’s Seminary for five years, said he has received many benefits from the programs and services offered by the Office of Vocations for men and women

in discernment.

“During my discernment into the seminary, the office provided ample opportunities to further seek and clarify the will of God in my life through events, such as the monthly Discover the Road Less Traveled meetings and Men’s Discernment Retreat,” said Nguyen.

“Now, as a seminarian, the Office of Vocations continues to support me by being my advocate throughout my seminary formation, providing events and gatherings in which I build fraternity with my Archdiocesan brothers, as well as providing avenues in which I can serve the people of God.” Nguyen said that in addition to the support of all aspects of his formation toward the priesthood in the seminary, he has witnessed and participated in efforts by other critical ministries that receive DSF support.

“I have personally seen and been involved with other ministries funded

by the DSF, both as a seminarian and before I became one,” said Nguyen.

“Prior to seminary, as a registered dental hygienist, I trained and later volunteered extensively at the San José Clinic. I was able to witness and participate in many life-changing dental and medical services that were being provided for the people of God.” For more information about upcoming discernment events or how to encourage prayer for vocations at the parish level, visit the Office of Vocation’s website at houstonvocations.com or call 713-6528239. To learn more about St. Mary’s Seminary, visit smseminary.org or call 713-686-4345.

To learn more about the DSF and additional ministries supported by the fund, visit to www.archgh.org/dsf.

The DSF supports over 60 ministries, whether direct service or education, which require this critical funding to remain in operation. Out of each gift given to DSF, 100% of every dollar goes directly to supporting these ministries. †

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14 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • JUNE 14, 2022

MEN FOR

OTHERS Congratulations to the Strake Jesuit

CLASS OF 2022

As graduates of a Catholic, Jesuit institution, these young men of the Class of 2022 are uniquely prepared for both college and the world that awaits them. They are Men for Others, formed to live out the call of Christ to actively contribute to building a more just and loving society. The six traits that they carry with them are described as the Strake Jesuit Graduate at Graduation. These young men have been challenged to become Open to Growth, Intellectually Competent, Religious, Loving, Committed to Doing Justice, and Physically Fit.

Nahom Abiy Mason Abrell Cielo Acosta Harry Agee Jason Agu Emilio Aguilar-Zahar Julian Alarcon Diego Amezaga Chase Anderson Drew Animashaun Gavin Armstrong Graham Arnold Marc Arsham Andres Axtell Cody Ayers Judge Azios Jaxon Baker Kade Baron Felipe Barros Jay Bassong Owen Baum Harris Beek Scott Bera Jack Berger David Bitoun

Garrett Black Mitt Black William Blakes Simon Bloesch Alex Borsos Gerhen Braza Baird Bright Janri Brillantes Daniel Brindle Alex Broadnax Jacob Broussard Jared Broussard Blake Brzezinski Alex Buettgen Dominic Bujanos John Michael Burger Carson Burkhart Jack Burton Jeff Bustamante Carlos Caldentey Ben Caligur Kade Cannizaro Sebastian Carroll Brian Cassidy Max Castellanos

Jack Chandler Ryan Chang Vail Chen Sean Chipongian Andrew Christman Cody Clark Jac Clifford Joseph Cohn Patricio Correa Charlie Cox Joel Crawford Ethan Crosier Mark D’Andrea Cooper Davis Payne Davis Tommy de la Houssaye Drake Decker Angel Deleon Chris DeMoor Alfonso Deshon Canon Dickerson Jack Dillihunt Michael Dinh Zion Dixon Jacob Dodson

Dylan Dominey Luke Dominey William Dondlinger Ryan Doris Arya Draksharam Austin Dubec Trey Duffield Clayton DuMay James Duval Matthew Dzierzanowski Matthew Ellithorpe Brandon Elwood Gabriel Espinoza Dalton Ezell Eric Fairchild Luke Fendrick Nelson Figueroa Leo Filardo Max Finney+ Landon Fisher Siler Fisher Jake Fletcher Evan Ford Jake Foster Josh Franklin

Charlie Funderburk John Gabbanelli Dylan Gaines Daniel Garcia Joey Garcia Reed Gehbauer Ben Goldin Jose Gomez Nicholas Goodman Anthony Graham Ty Gribble John Griffin Gus Groff Abhi Gudipati Juan Guio Niko Harris Alex Harwood Brennan Hasan Harrison Hastings Matthew Held Harrison Henke Quentin Henry Zach Hernandez David Hernandez-Molina Reed Hightower

Austen Hill Dylan Hoang William Hubbard Marshall Hudson Andrew Hung Anthony Hurtado Ryan Irr Lukas Jackiewicz Michael Jeffery Will Jeffery Thomas Jewett Eli Jones Kennan Jones Ryan Jones David Kennedy Jake Kennedy James Max Kennedy Oliver Kennedy John Kilboy Kent Knowles Grayson Lancaster Thomas Leal James Ledbetter Daniel Lee Landon Lehane

JUNE 14, 2022 • ARCHGH.ORG/DIGITALEDITIONS

Braden Leite Will Lindsey Diego Lopez Evan Lott Cristian Luna Patrick Lyons Sam MacDonough Patrick Mallon Holden Maples Grant Marshall Angello Martinez Dante’ Martinez Felipe Martinez Giovanny Martinez Michael Martinez Ian McAshan Colin McGinity Iker Mendiburu Perez Matthew Mischlich Alex Mitchell Kenny Moffet Topher Mohr Colin Moore Kyle Moore Christian Moreno

Jacob Mueller Luke Mueller Nico Mur Jacob Murray Jack Murrell Dillon Murti Brian Nehme Chris Ngo Ben Nguyen Calvin Nguyen Matthew Nguyen Vincent Nguyen Grisha Nikulin Ben Norvell Blake Noteboom Chris Novak Sal Nuzzo Ifeatu Obijiofor Ogo Okpala Michael Oria Nigel Outley James Palmer John Palmer Manuel PanDavila Rafa Parra

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Shane Pellegrino Cesar Perozo Colin Pham Hampton Pillsbury Adrian Pomer Preston Popov Michael Posoli Julian Puerto Hurley Qi Julio Ramirez Reid Ramirez Sam Read Noah Reed Rafael Reynal Camilo Riascos Wade Richter Rafael Rincon Baz Rivera Peter Robert Matthew Rodriguez Javi Roman-Pavajeau Jack Rossi Ethan Rowell CJ Royal Aaron Rucker

Reed Ruffeno Cole Rutherford Matthew Sadler Federico Sanmiguel Neel Sareen Conner Sauer Joe Schaffer Aaron Schmidt Noah Schroeder Luke Schwartzenburg John Sexton Connor Shaw Blake Sherrill Steven Shields Jeevan Sidhu Leland Smith Nicholas Smith Thomas Smith Jake Soublet William Spires Barrett Spritzer Kile Stenoien Gavin Stewart Kent Stovall Jeremy Stratmann

Garrett Stratton Doug Suell Nick Sullo Gavin Sweitzer Jackson Swoboda Jonathan Taffet Thomas Tat Mark Tayar Will Taylor Jacob Technik Pablo Tellez Nick Thomas Will Thorburn Nhat Tong Joaquin Torres Stephen Treese Collin Turbidy Will Turboff Cristian Turtur Steel Uptmor Robbie Valcarcel Billy Van Pelt Emmett Vandegrift Shawn Varkey Cooper Vayda

Alejandro Velasco Jackson Venza Diego Vergara Pablo Vergara Dewey Verheeck Colin Vu Will Wachel Mathias Wagner Ayden Walker Charlie Walker Alex Wang Kale Watts David Wehmer Alex Wei Andrew Wong Derek Wong Joseph Wyble-Ceno Jarvis Xie Amine Yacob Luke Yokley Jordan Young Alec Zierlein Ricky Zubizarreta + D E C E AS E D

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16 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD CLASS OF 2022

C

atholic education has long been intertwined in the history of the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston. Since its founding 175 years ago, dozens of religious congregations brought education to the frontier lands of Texas, with today’s students, like those of the Class of 2022, experiencing the legacy of these brave educators.

With the world reopening after two years of quarantine and closures from the COVID-19 pandemic, so too is the world opening wide for these students in the senior class of 2022.

As they throw their caps in the air, seniors are opening the doors to college, careers and new opportunities awaiting them. The following is a glance into hard work and futures of the valedictorians, salutatorians and outstanding students from Catholic high schools around the Archdiocese.

CELEBRATING THE CLASS OF 2022

A WORLD WIDE OPEN

CRISTO REY JESUIT COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL Founded: 2009 by the Jesuits of the Central and Southern Province Address: 6700 Mount Carmel St., Houston One of the two Outstanding Students from Cristo Rey Jesuit College Preparatory School’s 2022 graduating class is Jennifer Lopez.

Lopez, a QuestBridge Scholar and Posse Foundation finalist, plans to major in biology at the University of Chicago before attending medical school to become a JENNIFER pediatric surgeon and travel the world.

LOPEZ An avid reader and baker, Lopez is a member of the National Honor Society, Student Ambassador, the Corporate Work-Study Program Student Executive team, and The Woods Project outdoor adventures.

She joined Cristo Rey Jesuit’s annual mission trip to Eagle Pass to repair homes. Lopez is currently interning in financial services at the Macquarie Group after working for a natural gas company during her freshman year.

This summer, she will participate in the 2022 Partnership for Careers in Cancer Science and Medicine at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

The other Outstanding Student from Cristo Rey Jesuit is Daniel Garcia.

Garcia plans to attend the University of Houston on a fullride Terry Foundation Scholarship, majoring in finance.

While attending Cristo Rey Jesuit, Garcia played soccer and worked at the Houston Food Bank in his free time. He interned at BP his freshman through DANIEL junior year, working GARCIA in data analytics and human resources before interning at Cheniere Energy in his senior year, where he worked on the trading floor and in the engineering department.

He will participate in the Bank of America Summer Internship Program this summer, as he did last summer. Garcia hopes to become a quantitative analyst and also give back to the community in the form of scholarships for low-income students.

PHOTO BY MICHELLE EISTERHOLD

Members of Frassati Catholic High School’s graduating class throw their mortar board caps in celebration during the school’s commencement ceremony on May 20 in Spring.

DUCHESNE ACADEMY OF THE SACRED HEART Founded: 1960 by the Religious of the Sacred Heart Address: 10202 Memorial Dr., Houston Julia Lauren Rushton is the Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart Class of 2022 Valedictorian.

She plans to attend Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia, Canada, to study medical science.

JULIA At Duchesne, Rushton participated RUSHTON in the Honor Council and volunteered at several nonprofits such as BEAR (Be a Resource For Kids at Duchesne) and Books Between Kids, the Houston Food Bank, a special education school and Angela House.

In school, she participated in choir, theater, biomedical club, the National Honor Society, and was an Upper School Ambassador. Rushton also worked in the Duchesne Extended Care program.

She hopes to go to medical school and become a pediatrician.

Abigail Beth Thompson, Duchesne’s Salutatorian, will be studying engineering with the Engineering and University Honors Programs at Texas A&M University.

She participated in several service projects each year, including serving as a teacher’s assistant for a class of 10-year-olds at a parish school ABIGAIL and a seventh-grade THOMPSON humanities teacher

with BreakThrough Houston. Her goal was to form personal relationships with her students and help prepare them for their subsequent years, both mentally and academically. In school, Thompson was on the basketball and volleyball teams all four years and a three-year member of the treble choir.

Senior year, she was a member of the National Honor Society, the Honor Council and the advanced choir.

Thompson was also the vice president of the Ping Pong Club, choir secretary/ treasurer, and was heavily involved in the Young Life.

FRASSATI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL Founded: 2013 by the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia Address: 22151 Frassati Way, Spring The Frassati Catholic High School Class of 2022 Valedictorian, Anna Lackner, will be attending the University of Tulsa in the fall and double major in chemical engineering and energy management.

Lackner was very involved in school activities at Frassati Catholic. She was an all-state swimmer taking gold in the 200 free relay her senior year. She has received state-level awards in government and debate, and is a National Merit ANNA Finalist.

She has LACKNER volunteered many hours toward Love for our Elders and served as an athlete representative on the board of USA Swimming. Her role allowed her to speak out in support of potential changes that

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • JUNE 14, 2022

would contribute to safety improvements within the swimming community. She hopes to become a nationally ranked triathlete and be an executive at a Fortune 500 company before the age of 35.

“I also want to visit every continent and rescue several pets,” she said.

The Frassati Catholic High School’s 2022 Salutatorian, Ashlyn Miller, will be attending Texas A&M University in the fall and study biomedical sciences.

Miller has been involved in every aspect of student life at the school, including athletics, theater and clubs. She was a leader on the cross country, soccer ASHLYN and track teams.

MILLER Her athletic abilities earned her district championships and top 10 finishes at State, First Team All-State and Academic All-State awards.

She had dancing and ensemble roles in both ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and the ‘Sound of Music.’ She was a student ambassador, a member of the Culture of Life club and the National Honor Society, where she served as president. In the academics, Miller was a CLT10 National Award recipient, wrote the top essay in the high school division of the Catholic Textbook history essay contest, and was most recently named a National Merit Scholar.

INCARNATE WORD ACADEMY Founded: 1873 by the Congregation of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament Address: 609 Crawford St., Houston Mary Caroline Turner and Makynzie Kitzmann are the Incarnate Word Academy (IWA) Class of 2022 Valedictorian and Salutatorian.

Turner plans to attend Baylor University in the fall to major in health science studies.

MARY During her four years TURNER at IWA, Turner played volleyball, was a captain on the Falcon ambassadors program, and a member of the National Honor Society, Campus Ministry team and Mu Alpha Theta. Her service-learning project was volunteering at Camp Beloved and Beyond, which serves children with special needs.

Kitzmann plans to attend the University of Texas at Austin in the fall to major in biology, with plans to enter biomedical research.

During her freshman year, Kitzmann was part of the Falcons volleyball team. She was a member of MAKYNZIE the National Honor KITZMANN Society and Mu Alpha Theta and was one of the Falcon Ambassadors.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, she helped sew facemasks for at-risk members of the community. It began as a project for family and evolved into sewing masks for a friend of the family as well.

JUNE 14, 2022 • ARCHGH.ORG/DIGITALEDITIONS

O’CONNELL COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL Founded: 1847; The school represents a consolidated history of three communities: Dominican High School (1882), Kirwin High School (1927) and Ursuline Academy (1845).

Address: 1320 Tremont St., Galveston The O’Connell College Preparatory School Class of 2022 Valedictorian is Kyle Tan. He will attend Johns Hopkins University to pursue biomedical engineering.

Tan served as a volunteer pianist at the University of Texas KYLE TAN Medical Branch and the Rosenberg Library. He was also an altar server and lector at Holy Family Parish and helped the Filipino Santo Niño group. He dedicated his senior project to underserved youth ministry. He volunteered at the Galveston Food Bank and was named a volunteer of the month.

Tan was the president of the National Honor Society, secretary of Student Council, secretary of Phi Theta Kappa, and president of the Pepsi-Co Recycling Club.

Tan participated in the NASA high school aerospace scholars program, interned at UTMB, and was a varsity basketball player.

O’Connell’s Class of 2022 Salutatorian is Katherine Taylor. She will be attending the University of Houston and will be majoring in psychology.

Taylor regularly volunteered at concession stands for school-sponsored events.

She also enjoyed helping at local food banks and participated in several canned food drives.

Taylor has been a yearly speaker for the KATHERINE Settlement Historic TAYLOR District to speak on the importance of family and Black history and was given the opportunity to donate an important family relic to the Texas City Museum She chose to stay busy through extracurriculars, especially during her senior year. Taylor was a member of the National Honor Society and became the vice president of NHS her senior year. She played tennis and was the O’Connell cheer manager her senior year. She was also a member of the recycling and chess clubs.

ST. AGNES ACADEMY Founded: 1906 by the Dominican Sisters of Houston Address: 9000 Bellaire Blvd., Houston The St. Agnes Academy’s Class of 2022 Valedictorian is Arbor (Nicole) Ahlgren. She will be attending Haverford College in Haverford, Pennsylvania, to study engineering and environmental studies.

In school, Ahlgren was involved as a goalie for the school’s state championshipwinning field hockey ARBOR NICOLE AHLGREN team, a student attorney for Harvard Mock Trial, a member of the National Honor Society and the Kaleidoscope Club.

CLASS OF 2022

Ahlgren took 10 AP classes and numerous honors courses and is a National Merit Scholar.

She worked at the DeBakey Veterans Association assembling supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic and volunteered at the Hayes County COVID vaccine clinic, assisting vaccine access for childcare workers. Ahlgren volunteered at SIRE, helping those with disabilities receive therapy, built a squirrel enclosure to help with rehabilitation efforts for the Texas Wildlife Rehabilitation Center and volunteered at The Montrose Center.

Ahlgren wants to be an environmental engineer and reverse KARIS the effects of climate WILLIAMS change and make the world a more sustainable place.

The St. Agnes Academy Class of 2022 Salutatorian is Karis Williams. She will be attending Rice University to study biology and natural science.

She volunteered at SIRE, an equine therapy program, helping those with disabilities receive therapy. She is also a National Merit Scholar and took 18 honors classes. Williams is an animal lover, a horticulturist, and has a passion for all things natural science.

ST. JOHN XXIII COLLEGE PREPARATORY Founded: 2004 Address: 1800 W. Grand Parkway N., Katy The St. John XXIII College Preparatory’s Class of 2022 Valedictorian is Laura Merlina. She will be attending the University of Texas at Austin majoring in the Plan II Honors Program on the premed track, minoring in social and behavioral sciences. She hopes to work and research in the field of addiction psychiatry.

At the school, Merlina served Neri House as a senior rep while playing varsity LAURA volleyball, club volleyball and golf.

MERLINA With campus ministry, she led both Quest and grade-level retreats.

She was a member of the National Honor and Science Honor societies, along with various school clubs. She was also a Lion Ambassador. Merlina was a frequent volunteer at the Brookwood Community and Ballard House, Mess Outreach and the Marie George Food Drives. She was also a vacation Bible school group leader at Epiphany of the Lord Catholic Church and worked part-time throughout her senior year.

St. John XXXII’s Salutatorian Toni New is going on to Texas A&M University to study mechanical engineering.

She hopes to work with TONI NEW innovative ideas that will advance society both technologically and environmentally.

In school, New served as Lisieux House Captain, softball captain, editor-in-chief of The Pride yearbook and a contributor to the Lion News. With campus ministry, she was a part of the Faith and Leadership

texas catholic herald

Program, the Altar Guild, and Quest and Kairos retreat leadership. She was a member of the national science and Spanish honor societies, and various school clubs. She is also a Lion Ambassador and an SJ23 Scholar Athlete.

New also volunteered at the Brookwood Community, along with Catholic Charities, The Lord’s Kitchen, and the Friends of Rosenberg. She is a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.

ST. PIUS X HIGH SCHOOL Founded: 1956 by the Dominican Sisters of Houston and the Diocese of Galveston-Houston Address: 811 West Donovan St., Houston The St. Pius X High School Class of 2022 Valedictorian is Colin Covington.

He will attend the University of Texas at Austin in the fall to study mechanical engineering.

In school, Covington was COLIN involved in baseball COVINGTON and soccer. He was a member of the National Honor Society and a Junior Officer Candidate. In the community, he volunteered at First Methodist Houston, teaching underserved children over the summer. He also helped bag and deliver lunches to the homeless.

Covington also participated in various Eagle Scout projects.

Megan Domingo is the St. Pius X’s Class of 2022 Salutatorian.

She will attend the University of Texas at Austin in the fall to study computer science.

She was a member of the National Honor Society, serving as MEGAN president in junior DOMINGO and senior year.

Domingo was also a member in the student council, serving as class secretary her senior year. She also participated in volleyball, softball and tennis.

ST. THOMAS HIGH SCHOOL Founded: 1900 by the Congregation of St. Basil Address: 4500 Memorial Dr, Houston The St. Thomas High School Class of 2022 Valedictorian is Peyton Woodlief.

He will attend Texas A&M University in the fall to study engineering.

He was a National Merit Commended Student, a member of the National PEYTON Honor Society and a WOODLIEF permanent member of the St. Thomas Club. He earned an Eagle Scout distinction as a freshman. Woodlief also was a three-year starting goalie and state champion as a sophomore for CyWoods varsity club hockey.

He was also a St. Thomas Ambassador, participated in the Eagle Broadcast Network, part of the student government

17

and the yearbook staff. He volunteered at the Houston Food Bank and Loaves and Fishes Soup Kitchen.

The St. Thomas High School Class of 2022 Salutatorian is Thanh-Vinh McColloster.

He will be attending THANH-VINH University of Texas in the fall with a MCCOLLOSTER focus on science and chemistry.

He was a National Merit Scholar semifinalist, a member of the National Honor Society and a permanent member of the St. Thomas Club and earned select distinction in Theology Healing Racism.

He is part of St. Thomas Rocketry and the chess club.

McColloster volunteered with the Missionaries of Charity addressing the medical needs of the homeless and undocumented.

STRAKE JESUIT COLLEGE PREPARATORY Founded: 1960 by the New Orleans Province of the Society of Jesus Address: 8900 Bellaire Blvd., Houston The Strake Jesuit College Preparatory Class of 2022 Valedictorian is Mason Abrell. He will be attendingYale University in the fall and plans to study physics and East Asian studies.

Abrell was very active in his community, whether that be cofounding HTT, a group dedicated to helping break the cycle of poverty, working the food bank, or organizing relief efforts in his neighborhood during Winter Storm Uri. MASON ABRELL He was a part of Spectrum 3847, Strake Jesuit’s robotics team, where he was a subsystem lead. He also played flute in the symphonic band, and was a house captain for Bellarmine House.

He founded the Fictitious club, a fiction book club, and was a proud member of the SJ Roundnet Corps.

Mason plans to pursue a postgraduate degree in Applied Physics, and then work on major projects, whether in the public or private sector, that intersect physics and engineering in East Asia.

The Strake Jesuit’s Class of 2022 Salutatorian is Jonathan Taffet.

He will be attending Texas A&M JONATHAN University and plans TAFFET to study engineering.

He served the community by altar serving at Mass, yearly service projects, and keeping count of birds seen at Strake Jesuit.

Taffet was involved in varsity soccer, photography for the communications department and was co-president of the Crusaders for Life, and the Tropical Thursday club. Taffet also enjoys taking pictures of birds.

He hopes to integrate his passions: problem-solving, birds, humanities and photography to help others, the environment and to serve God.

18 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • JUNE 14, 2022

YOUTH A few good teens: Join the Archdiocesan Youth Council One of the first things a new youth ministry leader should know is the phrase “youth ministry should be done to, with, by and for youth.”This phrase from the USCCB document “Renewing the Vision,” which provides a framework for Catholic youth ministry, helps define the mission of youth ministry in the Archdiocese.

In 1994, Associate Director Brian Johnson, along with Director (and now secretariat rirector) Jim Barrette, created a high school advisory council of a few high school teens from various parishes, ethnic and social-economic backgrounds. They wanted the youth to be actively involved in their ministry, not just being ministered to. So they brought them together to share their ideas, concerns, hopes and faith stories.

That day the council was born.

Originally called Youth Ambassadors for Christ, or YAC for short, the youth explored ways to use their gifts and engage others throughout the Archdiocese to serve on the diocesan and parish level. Valerie Harrison, DRE at St. Mary of the Purification and one of the original youth council advisors who still serve today, defines what council means to her.

“The youth council gives the youth a voice in what is going on in the Church today. It allows the Church to also see the good in youth, their spiritual growth and experience their gifts and by talents which they can share with the universal RANDY Church.”

ADAMS The Archdiocesan Youth Council has grown from a few members in 1994 to well over 100 each year from the parishes and Catholic high schools in the Archdiocese. They serve with the help of the Office of Adolescent of Catechesis and Evangelization (OACE) staff and volunteer adult advisors (many were former members themselves) who guide the council.

Council members have become doctors, lawyers, teachers, peace officers and leaders in their professions. A large number of youth continue their faith in service to the Church as priests, men and women religious, novices and currently five seminarians. Former members have also become lay ministry leaders as well as parents, uncles and

†

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO SERVE ON THE YOUTH COUNCIL?

We are currently in the process of discerning the 2022-2023 Youth Council, which will be commissioned by Daniel Cardinal DiNardo on July 31 at Archdiocesan Youth Conference. We invite parish catechetical and youth leaders, campus ministers, priests and staff to consider nominating parish youth.

Nominations are welcomed from parish or Catholic high school officials who attest to the student’s leadership skills and level of commitment.

Students must be an incoming high school sophomore, junior or senior; Be familiar with the vision of youth ministry and be active in a parish youth ministry/high school campus ministry program; Listen to others and to report their concerns without judgment and be honest in communicating their own feelings; Consider the whole Archdiocesan picture rather than the individual parish or school; and take responsibility for his/her attendance and commitment to areas/committees assigned. aunts, all who continue to share their faith with family and friends.

The council has also expanded its mission to help assure active youth participation in Archdiocesan events; help in sharing needs of youth and advocate for their concerns to the archbishop and Archdiocesan officials; represent the youth in diferent ways and encourage the Archdiocese to attend to their needs; and to to further Christian growth by developing programs for youth through observation, discussion and action.

The council hopes to have at least two

representatives for each parish and Catholic high school within the Archdiocese.

Council members serve on the various programs for younger and older adolescents by assisting in creating, implementing and leading activities for their peers. Along with adult mentors, they help accompany their peers in ministry by articulating their own faith stories and journey as disciples.

Daniel Cardinal DiNardo commisions the council each year at the closing See YOUTH, page next page

Congratulations to the St. Catherine’s Montessori Class of 2022!

JUNE 14, 2022 • ARCHGH.ORG/DIGITALEDITIONS

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COLUMNISTS Growing in faith during the summer isn’t just for kids As summer begins, most parishes offer a popular annual activity: vacation Bible school (VBS). While a regular, systematic catechesis is important, there is something about the more concentrated experience afforded by flexible summer schedules that captures people’s imagination differently. Themed celebrations, decorations, lots of activities, a whole bunch of singing and snacks are hallmarks of VBS. So too is the involvement of multiple age groups and older kids working with younger ones. For many Catholics, some of their best parish memories of growing up are connected to VBS. And yet, for some reason, we tend to limit the idea of summer catechetical opportunities that look different from the rest of the year to our children alone.

Why is that? Why don’t we, as adults, also think that our summer schedules could be opportunities for us to grow in our faith in different ways?

While formal classes for adults in our parishes may take the summer off, there are still plenty of opportunities,

by

BRIAN GARCIALUENSE

†

especially online, to take a course or seminar. I know that many who dedicate a part of their summer to continuing education so that they can maintain their professional credentials and licenses.

If you can schedule a three-day workshop or a daylong seminar for professional reasons, why not look and see if you can do something formal in faith formation for a

day or two?

Summer formation doesn’t have to be formal. Some people have a great tradition of summer reading. Whether on the beach, in a cabin in the woods, or a backyard hammock, there are plenty of folks who find rest and relaxation with their noses in a book. There is certainly nothing wrong with escaping for a while with a new novel from a favorite author or a return to a great classic.

Still, why not include some items designed to help us grow catechetically and spiritually in your summer reading list? This does not need to be difficult or complex. There are plenty of spiritual classics, popular theological essays, church histories and modern thoughtful spiritual writers that are just as wellwritten, engaging and thoughtprovoking as any secular writer.

Summer formation can easily take place by being intentional about including something that fits into what we already love to do. If you would like to see a list of recommended readings, visit www. archgh.org/adultformation.

Travel is another favorite summer activity. Florida and California are home to famous theme parks and are popular summer tourist destinations. They are also home to some of the oldest Catholic missions in the U.S. The first Mass in current U.S. territory took place in 1565 in St. Augustine, Florida, more than a half-century before the pilgrims went to Massachusetts. The first mission in California was founded by St. Junipero

Serra, seven years before the Declaration of Independence was signed.

Closer to home, we have our own St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica in Galveston and the Shrine of the True Cross in Dickinson.

If you are fortunate enough to travel this summer, why not intentionally include among your various stops and destinations places that touch on our Catholic history and heritage, and places of pilgrimage and prayer that can nurture our souls and spiritual lives?

Nearly every part of the country has opportunities that can be easily discovered if you are ready to look.

Taking advantage of the summer to grow in our faith really is about choosing to include our faith in our summer activities. And choosing to include and nurture our faith in our daily lives should be something we strive for every day. † Brian Garcia-Luense is an associate director with the Office of Catechesis and Evangelization.

Welcoming young adults as a pilgrim host I recently participated in the Young Adult and Campus Ministry Retreat held at the Cameron Retreat Center in mid-May. One of our speakers, Robert Choiniere, a theology professor from Fordham University, used his experience and journey on the Camino de Santiago to describe the Church as home while on a journey. Of all the things he talked about, the term “pilgrim host” stood out to me.

The pilgrim hosts are people who live in the cities where the pilgrims pass as they walk. They are hosts and welcome people with joy, giving them what they need to continue to their next stop. The hosts are known for washing the feet of those pilgrims, a pure act of service.

Being a host and welcoming everyone along the way is something that really sounds easy, but it is not.

This term made me reflect on the times that I have had the opportunity to be that pilgrim host for people who have sought help. I started to reflect and think of what would happen if we all really welcome others with joy. Taking on the role of being a host does not only mean welcoming but also taking care of that person for the time they are visiting, making them feel at home. With that same spirit, we must act in our spiritual home.

It is essential to give of ourselves to those who are present in our Church.

Being a pilgrim host to our young adults

is not only important but an act of Christianity. As disciples, we have the mission of evangelization that was given to us by Christ. We must be true to those words and be ambassadors of our Lord. by The pilgrim hosts’ tasks of accompanying, THALIA equipping, preparing and ROMERO sending forth stand out to me. These tasks can be implemented as actions to guide those we minister to regardless of their different life journeys.

In the short time I have served as associate director, I have had the opportunity to meet so many wonderful young adults, and my hope is to be a pilgrim host with all those I encounter.

Just recently, we held the Charis retreat, where almost 50 young adults were able to reconnect with their faith. To know that I had something to do with their spiritual growth fills my heart. On this three-day retreat, I know I was able to accompany them to grow closer to Christ. I pray to be that pilgrim host in their lives and look forward to all our Lord has in store.

I am so hopeful for our next Apostles on Mission program in the fall will be a great example of accompaniment. The participants will be paired with mentors who will guide them to discern an

†

evangelization plan. This is the work of the pilgrim host as they accompany the young adults.

In my own life, I would not be the person I am today without the example of so many who have been with me on my journey. One of those examples in my life was my confirmation sponsor, Amanda Murillo, who guided me through many years of uncertainty. Now, as a young adult, despite the distance, she continues to be a pilgrim host in my life and keeps up with me and my

YOUTH, from previous page Liturgy of the Archdiocesan Youth Conference. Each August, council members meet Cardinal DiNardo to share some of their youth concerns.

Council is a one-year commitment.

Time includes two or three weekend retreats during the year, serving on a program committee that you choose.

The program committee’s time commitment varies depending on the program, with most being one to two meetings and participation in virtual meetings.

Council also provides an opportunity to meet new friends from all over the Archdiocese who share the same love of Jesus Christ and to

spiritual growth.

I’ve learned that taking upon the role of a pilgrim host is so important for our Church. To continue that spirit of a pilgrim host, we must be open to give all that we have been entrusted with: To be true disciples of Christ and walk the Camino of those who come across our path. † Thalía Romero serves as an associate director for the Office of Young Adult and Campus Ministry. come together for prayer, faithsharing, fellowship and fun. Council members have also formed friendships that have continued from high school, college to adulthood.

So, do you know a youth who would benefit from a ministry that is by, with and for youth? Discernment will continue through June 2022. If you know someone who is interested, have them contact their parish catechetical leader, campus leader or Randall Adams at OACE at radams@ archgh.org or call 713-741-8723. † Randall Adams is an associate director with the Office of Adolescent Catechesis and Evangelization.

SUNDAY MASS READINGS JUNE 19 JUNE 26 JULY 3 JULY 10

First Reading: Gen 14:18-20 First Reading: 1 Kings 19:16, 19-21 First Reading: Is 66:10-14 First Reading: Deut 30:10-14

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 110:1-4 Second Reading: 1 Cor 11:23-26 Resp. Psalm: Ps 16:1-2, 5, 7-11 Second Reading: Gal 5:1, 13-18 Resp. Psalm: Ps 66:1-7, 16, 20 Second Reading: Gal 6:14-18 Resp. Psalm: Ps 69:14, 17, 30-31, 33-34, 36-37 or 19:8-11 Second Reading: Col 1:15-20

Gospel: Lk 9:11-17 Gospel: Lk 9:51-62 Gospel: Lk 10:1-12, 17-20 Gospel: Lk 10:25-37

2022 DSF_14x4.625_generic final.pdf

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And after the fire came a gentle whisper

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

So whether you eat or

drink or whatever you do, do it all for the

glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31

CMY

K

It was a new day. They were gathered together when suddenly there came from the sky a noise like a strong driving wind, and it filled the entire house in which they were. Tongues of fire parted, resting upon each one as they received the Holy Spirit. The Advocate arrived to give courage and strength to the disciples; to give birth to the Church.

We love the fire and wind, the drama of Pentecost! We can imagine the roaring sound emanating from the Upper Room, reaching the ears of those gathered in Jerusalem, both drawing and confusing them. And then the next new day arrived, the wind faded, and the Apostles walked forward shepherding the Church entrusted to them.

Pentecost signals the end of our 50 days of Easter feasting, and our hearts rejoice. For Christians, endings and beginnings are joined; CrucifixionResurrection, Ascension-Pentecost, death-new life. Our faith assures us that endings always open the way to new beginnings.

This belief is the heart and impetus of the Synod underway in the Archdiocese and Church. The whole community has been invited to listen, share experiences of faith, and propose ways to live the Gospel in this new day as we continue to shepherd what has been entrusted to us.

It was an ending and beginning two years ago when the Cenacle Sisters entrusted their ministries, including the Spiritual Direction Institute, to lay leadership. The ending and the circumstances that led to the transition resembled strong winds that filled the entire house. It was dramatic (and traumatic) for the sisters, for the many whose faith they had nurtured, and for the hundreds formed there in the ministry of spiritual direction. And when the new day came, it arrived, not like Pentecost, but like it did for Elijah; after the fire came a gentle whisper (1 Kings 19:12).

Unlike Elijah, who had prayed for death, the Spiritual Direction Institute prayed for life. We listened and continue to listen for the gentle whisper. Like the

Apostles, we returned to our Jerusalem to discern and respond to the signs of the times. The diversity in faith and culture, pluralism, and the secularization of our era did not send us cowering back into a cave. by Although there is no KATHLEEN single tongue we speak or MESSINA hear, our shared Christian horizon, however, it is articulated, is eternal life with God as revealed in Jesus Christ.

Spiritual direction, like our faith, is incarnational. Although one can learn much from training manuals and lectures, we are formed and transformed through living and witnessing together.

Ten students received their Certificates in Spiritual Direction last month in the 34th graduation of the Spiritual Direction Institute.

The next new day and the day after for these spiritual directors will be devoted to accompanying others throughout the Archdiocese in their spiritual journey. They will be followed by the students who, God-willing, complete the program next year and the year after that, as long this program continues to be Spirit-filled, responding to the needs of the time.

While the Synod appropriately appeared to resemble a strong driving wind, most times, we are beckoned to each new day, as the Spiritual Direction Institute has been, by a gentle whisper.

The winds that appear in our life, whether they arrive dramatically or gently, are invitations to listen and share, to be filled with courage and strength.

Walking together, sharing our life of faith, our endings and our beginnings, we participate in giving birth to the Church. May we rejoice in the gift of each new day. †

†

Kathleen Messina is the director of the Spiritual Direction Institute at the Emmaus Spirituality Center.

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WORLD

Bishops lament that Nigerians are not safe anywhere after 50 die in church shooting LAGOS, Nigeria (CNS) — Condemning the actions of gunmen who attacked a Catholic Church as parishioners gathered for Mass on the feast of Pentecost, Nigeria’s Catholic bishops lamented that nowhere is safe in the country after the incident left dozens of people dead.

Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, president of the Nigerian Catholic bishops’ conference, released a statement from the bishops on June 6, saying he was shocked and dismayed to learn of the attack a day earlier at St. Francis Xavier Church in Owo, a town in Ondo state in the southwestern part of the country.

Witnesses said unidentified gunmen began shooting at people during Mass and outside the church. The gunmen escaped and remained at large on June 6.

Nigeria has experienced an increase in violence in recent months.

A doctor said at least 50 people had died and were taken to two hospitals, the Reuters news agency reported. The dead included children, witnesses said.

“Nowhere seems to be safe again in our country; not even the sacred precincts of a church,” said Archbishop Ugorji, who is preparing to be installed as the leader of the Archdiocese of Owerri on June 22.

“We condemn in the strongest terms the spilling of innocent blood in the house of God. The criminals responsible for such a sacrilegious and barbaric act demonstrate their lack of the sense of the sacred and the fear of God,” he said.

The archbishop called on the government to quickly find the gunmen, saying that if they were not taken into custody and prosecuted, he feared the country would descend into anarchy.

“The world is watching us. Above all, God is also watching us,” he added.

Ondo Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, hours after the attack, said his administration will do everything possible to find the perpetrators and prosecute them.

Saying through a spokesman that he was saddened by the unprovoked attack, Akeredolu said he spoke with Bishop Jude Arogundade of Ondo, who was traveling to Owo. “The vile and satanic attack is a calculated assault on the peace-loving people of Owo kingdom who have enjoyed relative peace over the years, “the spokesman quoted the governor

CNS PHOTO

The altar seen surrounded by shattered glass at St. Francis Xavier Church the day after worshippers were attacked by gunmen during the Pentecost Mass, in Owo, Nigeria, June 5. Reports said at least 50 people were killed in the attack.

as saying. “It is a black Sunday in Owo. Our hearts are heavy. Our peace and tranquility have been attacked by the enemies of the people. This is a personal loss, an attack on our dear state.”

Bishop Arogundade appealed for calm in the wake of the violence.

In a June 5 statement, the bishop acknowledged that the parish was devastated by the violence and asked for prayers for peace in Nigeria and for normalcy to return to Owo and Ondo state.

“At this point in the history of our dear country, Nigeria, we need God’s ultimate intervention to restore peace and tranquility,” Bishop Arogundade said.

The Owo Diocese said that the parish priests were safe. Early social media reports erroneously said they had been kidnapped by the gunmen.

One of the priests, Father Andrew Abayomi, told local media that the attack occurred near the end of Mass when gunshots could be heard from different locations.

“We hid inside the church, but some people had left when the attack happened,” he said. “We locked ourselves inside the church for more than 20 minutes. It was when we heard that they had left that we opened the church and rushed the victims to the hospital.”

He said an unknown number of parishioners died in the attack.

At the Vatican, Pope Francis expressed his solidarity and closeness with Catholics in Nigeria in response to the violence.

“While the details of the incident are being clarified, Pope Francis prays for the victims and the country, painfully stricken

Thousands of families in the Greater Houston area struggle every day.

And with your support, Catholic Charities provides help and hope to people in need, especially the poor and vulnerable. Our network of life-changing programs work together to alleviate poverty.

Guided by the Catholic Faith, we serve people of all beliefs.

People of Faith.

Helping People in Need.

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.

in a moment of celebration, and entrusts both to the Lord, so that He may send His Spirit to comfort them,” said Matteo Bruni, director of the Vatican press office,

in a statement June 5.

The attack met with swift condemnation from other prelates and community organizations.

Archbishop Alfred Adewale Martins of Lagos expressed concern for the victims and the protection of innocent people.

“We have never had it so bad for our country to be failing in nearly all aspects of her corporate existence,” he said in a statement released June 5 by the archdiocese.

“Security is in shambles, the economy has failed as a majority of Nigerians are living in extreme poverty, and even the trend in politics gives a lot of concern to the average Nigerian,” he said.

Nigerians are living in a time of fear and anxiety, and their concerns were not being addressed by the government, he said, while calling on Nigerian leaders to step up efforts to prevent similar attacks. †

Learn more at CatholicCharities.org

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22 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • JUNE 14, 2022

“Wh oever h as a h ear t ful l of l ove, al w ay s h as som et h i n g t o g i ve.”

P op e St . Joh n X X III

Congratulations to the Class of '22 Gianna Therese Aldrett Sofia Del Carmen Aveledo Katelyn Mary Benoit Ella Claire Blackburn Gavin Miles Blumenthal Meredith Joy Boster Adele Dauge Butler Brian Joseph Callahan Blanca Castillo Nunez James Eric Connor Nicole Alejandra Cruz Rosisela Maria De Nicola Sarah Michelle DeForke Camila Diebra Gabrielle Renee Docog Jacob William DuBrava Matthew Steven DuBrava Isabella Bianca Eguia Alex Esquivel Lauren Grace Frazier Bailey Nicole Freed Cameron Diane Freed Connor Jose Fussa

Victoria Marie Gitschel Lilliana Grace Gomez Paulo Adrian Gonzalez Jillian Rose Gordon Tomas Eduardo Guajardo Richard Samer Haouila Henry Jet Hillyer Tate Tynan Hinton Charles Austin Hogan Claire Elizabeth Holecek Jipyo Jaden Hong Sean Thomas Hubert Bao Tran Thai Huynh Sophie Giselle Ibañez-Flores Irekar Ellie Jeune Caroline Claire Johnston Grace Nicole Keller Nadine Amr Kenawy Jackson Samuel Khan Madelyn Joy Sloan Kinane Isabella Monica Knez Sean Andrej Korell Therese Ann Krenek

Brooke Elizabeth Kulhanek Janice Hui Yi Lin Amanda Taylor Lopez Jose Felix Lopez Daniel Alexander Lozada Audrey Marie Magner Francesca Pearl Martinez Maurine Olivia McCarty Blaine Edmund McElligott Jackson Cregg McGaha Margaret Ellen Meegan Laura Michelle Merlina Ethan Michael Mills Kristen Catherine Mohan Diego Oscar Moncada Cade Sciba Morales Mia Nicole Morello Joseph Anthony Navarro Toni Marie New Song Nhu Dan Nguyen Jeffrey Kofi Nyanteh Malakhi Xavier Ortiz Daniela Noemi Parra

Austin Allen Paul Carter Wesley Pesnell Joseph Pham Catherine Thérèse Picard Dontrell Pirtle Gray Alan Podolak Nathan Jeffrey Polzer Garrett James Regan William Zachary Rehfeld Carson Brewster Rhoads Rachel Elizabeth Rivera Amy Ann Ross Daniela Nichole Sabido Elise D'Angelo Sablotny Macey Angelina Sáenz Lucas Barroso Sandweg Ethan Thomas Seiler Catherine Agresta Silas Gabriel Preston Simmons Sophia Grace Solis Mary Margaret Elizabeth Speed Blake Martin Stefonsky Scott Arthur Stephenson

Aidan Patrick Stimatz Molly Jean Stoddard Carter Jude Suire Isabella Christiana Sulit John Francis Sutton Jacob Francis Thompson Austin Eli Tran Nathan Duy Tran Vincent Huy Tran Joseph Emmanuel Tupaz Julian Daniel Urrego Eduardo Vega Anchondo Dylin Marie Rose Waldorf Gillian Bernadette Walsch Robert Gerald Wells James Bryan Wright Jared Charles Wright Gabriel Hoang Yeung Heather Hoang Yeung Ivy Hoang Yeung Elizabeth Sophia York

JUNE 14, 2022 • ARCHGH.ORG/DIGITALEDITIONS

texas catholic herald

STATE & NATION

Amid pain in Uvalde, there’s still ‘goodness in people,’ says San Antonio archbishop Barrett Station parish hosts prayer vigil for Uvalde, Buffalo shooting victims UVALDE (CNS) — It feels as if there are no silver linings in the cloud of lingering grief and horror that surrounds Uvalde, Texas, as the city began on May 31 to bury the first of 19 children and their two teachers killed a week earlier during a mass shooting at Robb Elementary School.

The killings have produced almost two dozen wakes, funeral Masses or church services, and burials over the past few weeks in the small city of 15,000.

But even in the grief and pain, Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller of San Antonio, who has tended to those grieving in Uvalde, said in his May 29 homily that he’s witnessed a lot of “goodness in people, in the midst of suffering and loss.”

And it is toward Jesus, His life and death, that all must look for comfort and guidance in this time of trial, the archbishop said.

“After he rises from the dead, Jesus does not return to take revenge on those who murdered or abandoned him. His first greeting to his disciples is: ‘Peace be with you,’” he said.

And if there’s a place that needs peace, it’s Uvalde, where questions, as well as indignation, linger about efforts made or not made to stop the shooter.

‘THE PAIN... IS OUR OWN’ Archbishop García-Siller asked all to pray and embrace the families of those who have lost loved ones.

“And we embrace the families as a mother her children. We cry like a mother does! Our children have been taken away! The pain of families in Uvalde is our own,” he said in his homily.

He urged all to keep focused on Jesus and His message.

“Thanks to Him, we are a people of life. He allows us to deeply embrace the pain as we go through it and enables us to comfort with hope those who mourn. He strengthens us in times of trial,” he said.

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden also visited the same day and went to Mass at Sacred Heart Church, later meeting for three hours with the families of the dead.

“Do something!” someone in a crowd shouted at the president.

“It’s OK to be angry. But that anger can’t turn into hate,” the local pastor, Father Eduardo Morales, has been urging the local community during Mass. Father Morales would go on to celebrate several of the funeral Masses for those who died in the shooting.

Catholic priests, deacons, church staff, parishioners, and staff of schools and organizations continued to provide counseling, aid and others services to the families who lost loved ones and to others in Uvalde.

“God is good in the midst of the darkness,” said Father Matthew De Leon, who has been helping the Uvalde community. He is pastor of two parishes not far from Uvalde, St. Patrick’s in Sabinal, and St. Joseph’s in Knippa and at St. Mary’s in Vanderpool, an hour away.

A HOUSTON-AREA PRAYER VIGIL On May 31, the feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, parishioners of St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Barrett Station, just west of Houston near Crosby, held a Rosary prayer vigil.

The vigil prayed for the victims of the Uvalde shooting and the May 14 shooting in Buffalo, New York, where a gunman killed 10 Black people in a grocery store.

The prayer vigil was held at the parish’s Grotto of Our Lady and was coordinated

by Deacon Steve Arceneaux, with parish pastor, Father Anthony Mbanefo, MSP, and Deacon Martin Lemond also in attendance.

Parish secretary Judy Richard created a prayer board that displayed the names of all the victims of both shootings to bring parishioners face to face with those who died. Before each decade of the Rosary, the names of the victims were announced.

Rosaries made by parishioners Mae McAllister and Patricia Reed were blessed and used in the prayer vigil.

The parish, which has roots as an African American parish, hosted the Rosary vigil in English and Spanish. A blessing from Father Mbanefo concluded the vigil.

Parishioners left with“a firm resolution to continue to pray for peace and for an end to gun violence in the country,” according to a parish official. †

IN BRIEF Religious Freedom Week set for June 22 to 29

WASHINGTON — Religious Freedom Week takes place June 22 to 29. It begins with the feast day of Sts. Thomas More and John Fisher, includes the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, and ends with the feast of Sts. Peter and Paul.

The theme for this year is “Life and Dignity for All.” This year, with the approaching Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) is especially mindful of the debates around the country about abortion. The Catholic Church plays a crucial role in bearing witness to the Gospel of life and serving all who will be affected by these discussions and their outcomes.

The USCCB provides “Pray-Reflect-Act” resources at www.usccb.org/ReligiousFreedomWeek — one for each day on different religious liberty topics; this year, they focus on themes that intersect with life issues. †

IN MEMORIA We pray for the repose of the souls of the women and children who died in the Uvalde tragedy, as well as for the comfort and healing of their loved ones: JACKLYN CAZARES, 9 ELLIE GARCIA, 9 XAVIER LOPEZ, 10 JOSE FLORES, 10 NEVAEH BRAVO, 10 TESS MATA, 10 ALEXANDRIA RUBIO, 10 JAILAH SILGUERO, 10 JAYCE LUEVANOS, 10 MARANDA MATHIS, 11 MAKENNA LEE ELROD, 10

LAYLA SALAZAR, 10 MAITE RODRIGUEZ, 10 ANNABELL RODRIGUEZ, 10 ELIAHANA CRUZ TORRES, 10 ROJELIO TORRES, 10 ALITHIA RAMIREZ, 10 UZIYAH GARCIA, 10 AMERIE JO GARZA, 10 EVA MIRELES, 44 IRMA GARCIA, 48

A PRAYER FOR THE DEAD

In your hands, O Lord, we humbly entrust our brothers and sisters. In this life you embraced them with your tender love; deliver them now from every evil and bid them eternal rest.

The old order has passed away: welcome them into paradise, where there will be no sorrow, no weeping or pain, but fullness of peace and joy with your Son and the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen.

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24 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • JUNE 14, 2022

MUNDO CATÓLICO

Papa: Hay que abordar temas de pobreza que empujan a niños al trabajo

CIUDAD DEL VATICANO (CNS) — La pobreza y la desigualdad, factores importantes en la explotación del trabajo infantil, deben abordarse, dijo el papa Francisco en un mensaje.

“Lamentablemente, demasiadas manos pequeñas están ocupadas arando campos, trabajando en minas, recorriendo grandes distancias para sacar agua y haciendo trabajos que les impiden asistir a la escuela, por no hablar del delito de prostitución infantil, que está robando a millones de niños su alegría de su juventud y su dignidad dada por Dios”, escribió el papa en un mensaje a una conferencia mundial contra el trabajo infantil.

“Puesto que la pobreza es, de hecho, el principal factor que expone a los niños a la explotación laboral, confío en que sus deliberaciones no dejarán de abordar las causas estructurales de la pobreza mundial y la escandalosa desigualdad que sigue existiendo entre los miembros de la familia humana”, dijo el papa a los participantes de la conferencia.

El mensaje del papa Francisco fue dirigido a Guy Ryder, director general de la Organización Internacional del Trabajo, con motivo de la quinta Conferencia Mundial sobre la Erradicación del Trabajo Infantil que se celebra del 15 al 20 de mayo en Durban, Sudáfrica. El arzobispo Peter B. Wells, nuncio apostólico de Sudáfrica, leyó el mensaje del papa a la asamblea el 16 de mayo.

Al enviar sus “saludos cálidos y buenos deseos de oración” a los asistentes a la conferencia, el papa dijo que esperaba que la conferencia creara conciencia

FOTO DE CNS

Niños trabajan en un taller de bordado en Multan, Pakistán, en esta foto de archivo del 12 de junio de 2003. La explotación del trabajo infantil tiene sus raíces en la pobreza, la desigualdad escandalosa y la falta de oportunidades para proteger la dignidad humana, escribió el papa Francisco en un mensaje a una conferencia mundial sobre la lucha contra el trabajo infantil el 17 de mayo.

y promoviera un compromiso para combatir el problema del trabajo infantil.

“Si bien se han logrado avances significativos en la eliminación del flagelo del trabajo infantil en la sociedad, esta tragedia se ha visto agravada por el impacto de la crisis sanitaria mundial y la propagación de la pobreza extrema en muchas partes de nuestro mundo donde la falta de oportunidades de trabajo decente para adultos y adolescentes, la migración y las emergencias humanitarias

Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston Hispanic Radio Programs

KYST Radio Station 920 AM Sunday broadcasts: 6:00 – 7:00 a.m. & 8:00 – 9:00 a.m.

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.

condenan a millones de niñas y niños a una vida de empobrecimiento económico y cultural”, escribió.

El papa Francisco escribió que esperaba que la conferencia condujera a un mayor compromiso de los líderes relevantes y de las organizaciones internacionales y nacionales en “trabajar para encontrar formas apropiadas y efectivas de proteger la dignidad y los derechos de los niños, especialmente a través de la promoción de los sistemas

de protección social y el acceso a la educación por parte de todos”.

“La forma en que nos relacionamos con los niños, la medida en que respetamos su dignidad humana innata y sus derechos fundamentales, expresa qué tipo de adultos somos y queremos ser y qué tipo de sociedad queremos construir”, escribió.

El Vaticano está comprometido a trabajar de manera que ayude a la comunidad internacional a perseverar en sus esfuerzos para luchar contra la explotación laboral infantil “para que los niños puedan disfrutar de la belleza de esta etapa de la vida, al mismo tiempo que cultivan sueños para un futuro brillante”, dijo escribió el papa.

La Jornada Mundial contra el Trabajo Infantil se conmemorará el 12 de junio y tendrá como lema “Protección Social Universal para Terminar con el Trabajo Infantil”.

Un informe publicado por la Organización Internacional del Trabajo y UNICEF en 2021 estimó que unos 160 millones de niños, casi uno de cada 10, en todo el mundo se vieron atrapados en el trabajo infantil forzado, un aumento de 8.4 millones de niños en los cuatro años anteriores.

El informe dijo que encontró “un aumento significativo en el número de niños de 5 a 11 años en trabajo infantil, que ahora representan poco más de la mitad de la cifra global total”. El número de niños de 5 a 17 años que realizaban trabajos peligrosos para su salud, seguridad o moral “aumentó en 6.5 millones a 79 millones desde 2016”. †

JUNE 14, 2022 • ARCHGH.ORG/DIGITALEDITIONS

texas catholic herald

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2022 GRADUATING CLASS OF FRASSATI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

The Board of Trustees, administration, faculty and staff of Frassati Catholic High School are proud to recognize the Class of 2022.

The 67 members of the Class of 2022 have been accepted to 90 colleges and universities including Arizona State University, Baylor University, Benedictine College, Catholic University of America, Creighton University, Gonzaga University, Franciscan University of Steubenville, Fordham University, Louisiana State University, Rice University, Savannah College of Art and Design, Saint Louis University, Texas A&M University, The University of Texas at Austin, Universidad de Navarra, University of Connecticut, University of Notre Dame, University of St Andrews, and University of St. Thomas. Combined, they have been awarded more than $8.3 million in scholarships.

PRESENTING THE CLASS OF 2022 Melanie Del Valle Abdallah* Francesca Rae Agana Riley Matthew Amador*‡ Hania Carolina Bautista*‡ Brendan Reid Bell McKenzie Mary-Marie Berger Hannah Elizabeth Bernardo Zamari Kristopher Jiel Bruce Sarah Cristina Campos Federico Jose Celis*◊ Ivanna de la Maza Ashling Elizabeth DeGraaf* Christian Alejandro Del Valle*◊ Tyler James Druzbik Paul Matthew Eisterhold*‡ Mario El Hawi Ellie Grace Fincher* Veronica Lourdes Flynn Christopher John Gambertoglio Kristen Nicole Gamez Maria Jose Gonzalez Vizzani*◊ Isabel Guzman*‡ Sasha Rhiannon Heinle*‡ Cole Jacob Huard◊

Giovanni Michel Jabbour* Silvia Alejandra Jeter-Quintana*◊ Avery Raye Kemp*‡ Lola Maria Kiliddjian*‡ Skyler Jaye Knight Isabella Marie Knoepffler*‡ Julia Marie Kroeger Anna Elizabeth Lackner* Thomas Langley Katharine Elise Liepman*‡ Lorenzo Lopez Olan Mary Ashley Maggio* Cooper Joseph Marquardt Nicolas Victor Martinez*‡ Natalie Cleo McKeig* Juan Arcadio Medina Ashlyn Grace Miller* Mailyn Aranza Mondragon*◊ Antonio Josue Moschella Monica Rose O’Hara* Sarah Victoria Page*‡ Ryan Charles Paris Micah Ephraim Perreault William Robert Phillips

Frassati Catholic High School 22151 Frassati Way Spring, TX 77389 832.616.3217

Andrew Wyatt Post* Claudia Isabella Quezada Samuel Abram Rinando Elizabeth Bernadette Rudolph* Elizabeth Lucretia Schramm Emma Grace Sellers* Kevin George Spartz* Sofia Michelle Splawn* David Walter Stowe Rachel Bridget Strapp* William George Strecker* Kaila Marie Tristan Abigayle Grace Tucker*‡ Tyler Steven Twellman* Andre Verspieren◊ Meghan Siobhan Webb* Evan Beaupre Weis Adam Joseph Wetzel Vivian Louise Winton* *National Honor Society ◊National French Honor Society ‡National Spanish Honor Society

FRASSATICATHOLIC.ORG

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26 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • JUNE 14, 2022

WITHIN THE ARTS

Sculpture brings pro-life message to Chapel of St. Basil

BY JAMES RAMOS Texas Catholic Herald HOUSTON — The dark bronze sculpture seems to shimmer in contrast to the stark white stucco walls and the sharp black granite adjacent to the Chapel of St. Basil at the University of St. Thomas (UST).

Since early 2022, the Catholic university has hosted the larger-thanlife cast bronze sculpture that depicts a veiled mother embracing a child in her womb.

The pro-life work by Canadian sculptor Tim Schmalz represents a Madonna and child, with the child still in the womb, according to a UST statement.

The child is suspended in mirrored steel that creates a reflection of the world around it, including nearby trees, the sky above and viewers just feet away. The sculpture shares a peaceful message of a hopeful embrace of life while challenges to the sanctity of life continue around the nation. Even from far across UST’s Academic Mall, the sculpture is eyecatching at all hours of the day.

A smaller casting of the sculpture was dedicated May 29 at the Church of San Marcello al Corso in Rome, Italy, by Monsignor Vincenzo Paglia, president of the Pontifical Academy for Life.

PHOTO BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD

A bronze statue by sculptor Tim Schmalz brings an artistic prolife message to the University of St. Thomas campus and Chapel of St. Basil in Houston. FOR DETAILED PHOTOS AND VIDEOS ABOUT THE SCULPTURE, VISIT WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/LIFEMONUMENT.

A few days later, on June 5, UST hosted its own blessing ceremony with Father Mitch Dowalgo, CSB, and Father Janusz Ihnatowicz, who presided over a special Mass and the blessing ceremony.

This sculpture, part of a “National Life Monument” series, will be showcased at UST until June 30.

It will then travel to another five locations around the nation before being permanently installed at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate

Conception in Washington, D.C. Organizers also hope to place a life-size version of the artwork in every U.S. state.

Daniel Cardinal DiNardo invited the organizers to bring the work to the Archdiocese.

CHAPEL OF ST. BASIL MARKS 25 YEARS OF FAITH The arrival of the sculpture coincides with the 25th anniversary of the dedication of the Chapel of St. Basil.

Located at 3802 Yoakum St. on the UST campus in Houston’s Montrose neighborhood, the Chapel of St. Basil is revered as a unique landmark by lauded architect Philip Johnson. Named after St. Basil the Great, the namesake of UST’s founding fathers of the Congregation of St. Basil, the chapel was completed in 1997. The sacred space completes UST’s Academic Mall, which was also designed See CHAPEL, page next page

JUNE 14, 2022 • ARCHGH.ORG/DIGITALEDITIONS

AROUND Editor’s Note: Contact event organizers for the latest updates. For deadline details and more listings, visit WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/ATA.

JUNE 15

LUNCHEON, 12 p.m., Holy Family Catholic School (2601 Ursuline St., Galveston). The Ursuline Alumnae Association celebrates 175 years of Catholic education in Galveston and in Texas.

Brown bag/bring your own lunch. Drinks, gifts and prizes. Open to the public. More info: 409939-4700 or deecans2@gmail.com.

JUNE 17

CHOIR CONCERT, 7:30 p.m., All Saints (215 E. 10th St., Houston). The Archdiocesan Choir presents the Mass of Americas by Frank LaRocca in a special concert in a pre-tour event. Free admission, free will offering.

JUNE 16-18

SUMMER CATHOLIC LITERARY SPEAKER SERIES, 7:15 to 8:45 p.m., University of St. Thomas - Jones Hall (3910 Yoakum Blvd., Houston). Speakers include Dana Gioia, Joshua Hren, Cynthia Haven, Robert Royal and Catharine Savage Brosman. Free, open to the public. More info: https://tinyurl.com/545v3697.

JUNE 17-19

YOUNG ADULT RETREAT, Friday at 5 p.m. to Sunday at 12:30 p.m., Holy Name Passionist Retreat Center (430 Bunker Hill Rd., Houston). This three-day retreat, “Set Apart,” offers a weekend with Christ while meeting other young adults.

Open to ages 18 to 29. $250, Financial Aid available. More info: 713-464-0211 ext. 10; holynameretreatcenter.com/young-adults.

CHAPEL, from previous page

by Johnson some 40 years earlier, according to UST. The chapel hosts daily Mass and welcomes some 225 people for prayer with its naturally lit space. A skylight over the altar and a bronze sculpture of Our Lady Seat of Wisdom and the Child Jesus, both of whom sit atop a replica of the chapel, brightens the chapel. During day and night, the glass cross shines from the chapel’s western wall.

Outside, three geometric shapes make up the construction of the chapel: a 50foot white stucco cube with an opening reminiscent of a tent, a golden-tiled sphered dome that’s topped with a large cross, and a deep black granite plane that intersects the dome and the cube.

texas catholic herald

THE ARCHDIOCESE Around the Archdiocese

JUNE 24-25

RELIGIOUS FREEDOM CONFERENCE, Prince of Peace - St. Andrew Discipleship Center (19222 Tomball Pkwy., Houston). Two-day “Truth Under Attack” conference features speaker Father Tad Pacholczyk, Ph.D., on Friday at 7 p.m. The event opens on Saturday at 8:30 a.m. Registration includes lunch if registered

by June 17. Register: www.pophouston.org/ religiousfreedomconference. More info: FSchaeffer@att.net or call 281-627-0340.

JUNE 25

WOMEN’S CONFERENCE, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., St. Laurence (3100 Sweetwater Blvd., Sugar Land).

Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women hosts a Catholic Women’s Conference with Liv Harrison, Kate Mims of Holy Name Passionist Retreat Center and Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, who will attend the luncheon benefiting St. Mary’s Seminary. $30: luncheon only; $40: conference only (lunch not included). More info: https://ghcw.org.

JULY 2

FOURTH OF JULY DANCE, 8 p.m. to midnight, Queen of Peace Parish Life Center (626 Laurel Street, La Marque). “In God We Trust” Independence Day dance. Live Music. Food and alcohol sold at event. Tickets: $15, table of 12 for $250. More info: 409-938-7000.

JULY 8-9

OVERNIGHT RETREAT, Christian Renewal Center (1515 Hughes Rd.). “Your Life is Hidden with Christ” is a two-day, one-night retreat for all single adults from ages 35 to 55. Includes talks

The granite also holds three bells that ring throughout the neighborhood: The largest bell represents St. Basil, the second largest is for his brother St. Gregory of Nyssa, and the smallest bell represents St. Basil’s younger sister, St. Macrina, a nun.

Purposely placed opposite the college’s library, the chapel’s location indicates the relationship between faith and knowledge and the pursuit of education in the Catholic intellectual tradition.

A special Mass and reception were held on June 7 to mark the 25th anniversary of the dedication of the Chapel of St. Basil. The university also marked its 75th anniversary this year.

For more about the sculpture, the Chapel of St. Basil and Mass times, visit www.stthom.edu/mass. †

MOVIE RATINGS By Catholic News Service A-I – GENERAL PATRONAGE

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• Ron’s Gone Wrong (PG)

• Top Gun: Maverick (PG-13) • Turning Red (PG)

A-II – ADULTS AND ADOLESCENTS

L – LIMITED ADULT AUDIENCE

• Family Camp (PG) • The Bad Guys (PG)

• All the Old Knives (R)

A-III – ADULTS

• The Northman (R)

• Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (PG-13) • Downton Abbey: A New Era (PG-13) • Firestarter (R) • Jurassic World Dominion (PG-13) • Spider-Man: No Way Home (PG-13) • The Bob’s Burgers Movie (PG-13)

Editor’s note: Our editorial partner, Catholic News Service, is ending their movie reviews on July 31.

For additional Catholic movie reviews and more, visit www.catholicnews.com.

O – MORALLY OFFENSIVE

by Father Preston Quintela, Father Victor Perez, Gabriel Castillo, and Jessi and Marek Rudak.

The retreat relies heavily on Colossians 3:1-15 as a framework for our call to “put on the new man and leave behind the old man of sin.” Cost: $120. More info: www.saintjoseph.org/en/ news/retreats.

JUNE 27

GOLF TOURNAMENT, 7 a.m., Willow Fork Country Club (21055 Westheimer Pkwy., Katy). St. Bartholomew hosts its fourth annual golf tournament. 7 a.m. registration, 7:30 breakfast/ warm-up, 8:30 a.m. shotgun start, 1 p.m. awards. Team of four $550 or individual player $150. Best Ball Scramble, prizes, competitive buy-ins, raffle and silent auction. More info: kbw6803@gmail.com.

JULY 16

SHOW CHORUS CONCERT, 5 to 7 p.m., Sts. Simon and Jude (26777 Glen Loch Dr., The Woodlands). Wine and cheese event with The Woodlands Show Chorus with silent auction, bake sale, door prize and more. Doors open at 4. Cost: $25 adult, $30 reserve, $20 seniors 50+ and children 12 and under. Tickets: tickets@ thewoodlandsshowchorus.org. More info: 713688-6509.

JULY 23-24

EUCHARISTIC MIRACLES EXHIBIT, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Our Lady of Lourdes (10114 Hwy 6, Hitchcock).

The parish hosts a two-day display of the international Vatican Exhibition of Eucharistic Miracles of the World in English and Spanish.

JULY 26

SPEAKER SERIES, 6 to 8 p.m., St. Mary’s Seminary Nold Auditorium (9845 Memorial Dr., Houston).

Stewardship Speaker Series, “How to be a Cheerful Giver” by Father T.J. Dolce. $10. Light snacks will be served. Free parking near Nold & Borski Athletic Center. Register: tinyurl.com/ stewardship22.

JULY 29-30

GARAGE SALE, St. John the Baptist (110 E. South St., Alvin). Alvin CDA Court #2073 hosts a garage sale on July 29 from 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and July 30 from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. Donations will be accepted at the Parish Hall on July 26 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 6 to 7 p.m. only. More info: Ida at idascsr@gmail.com.

••• To find additional listings online, visit the website at WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/ATA

28 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

MILESTONES

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • JUNE 14, 2022

Do you have a photo you’d like to share? To submit a photo of a place, group or event that you would like to see in the Herald, email it to tch@archgh.org

50 YEARS OF MINISTRY

70 YEARS A PRIEST

Houston deacon marks 50 years of diaconate ministry in the Archdiocese

PHOTO BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD

Monsignor Eugene G. Francis preaches the homily at his 70th jubilee anniversary Mass at St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church in Spring on May 22. He marked the 70th anniversary of his priestly ordination this year. At least 14 priests concelebrated the Mass, with many of his former parishioners attending from the eight parishes that he has served within the Archdiocese, including parishes in Port Arthur, Orange and Hungerford, as well as Spring, Houston and Baytown.

HOUSTON — Deacon Dale W. Steffes celebrated the 50th anniversary of his ordination to the permanent diaconate with Mass at St. John Vianney Catholic Church in Houston on the vigil of Pentecost, June 4.

His five children and many other relatives joined his wife Sandy, Father Troy Gately, Father Chuck Taylor, the Knights of Columbus, and many friends, in attending the celebration.

Also in attendance were the newly initiated Catholics who were received into the Church at the Easter Vigil. They were celebrating 50 days of their Catholic faith.

Deacon Steffes was ordained at St. John Vianney on June 4, 1972, by the late Bishop John L. Morkovsky following two years of study at St. Mary Seminary in Houston.

He was part of the first class of permanent deacons for the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston and, at the time, was the largest class of deacons to be ordained in the U.S. There were 38 men in the diaconate class. Deacon Steffes has performed more than 1,000 Baptisms, countless weddings and funerals in the past half-century. He is a Third and Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus and has a strong devotion to the Blessed Sacrament. †

PHOTO BY CATHERINE VIOLA/HERALD

Deacon Dale W. Steffes, seen here glancing at wife Sandy, marked his 50th anniversary of his ordination to the permanent diaconate on June 4 with a special Mass at St. John Vianney Catholic Church in Houston.