Texas Catholic Herald - Dec. 14, 2021

DECEMBER 14, 2021 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

O ANTIPHONS

Explore the meaning and the text of this sacred Advent tradition ▪ SEE PAGE 3

1

Legion of Mary marks centennial anniversary

A GUIDE TO CONFESSION

▪ SEE PAGE 7

DECEMBER 14, 2021

texas catholic herald

A CENTURY OF MARIAN FAITH AND TRADITION ▪ SEE PAGE 16

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

500 YEARS OF FAITH

VOL. 58, NO. 13

CHURCH

U.S. bishops focus on Eucharist, young people, moms in need BALTIMORE (CNS) — The U.S. bishops spotlighted two major initiatives focused on the central role of the Eucharist Nov. 17, the second of two days of public sessions of their fall general assembly held Nov. 15 to 18.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) approved a 26page statement, 2021 U.S. “The Mystery of BISHOPS the Eucharist in the Life of the GENERAL Church,” with ASSEMBLY 222 “yes” votes, and also OK’d plans for a threeyear National Eucharistic Revival that will culminate with the National Eucharistic Congress 2024 in Indianapolis.

Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, former president of the U.S. bishops conference, attended the assembly and was joined See ASSEMBLY, page 12

PHOTOS BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD

Daniel Cardinal DiNardo greets an altar server during a past Simbang Gabi culmination Mass. This year’s celebration of the Simbang Gabi, a beloved tradition of Filipino Catholics, coincides with the 500th anniversary of the arrival of Christianity to the Philippines. Filipino Catholics around the Archdiocese are celebrating the milestone anniversary with special Masses and devotions.

Bright lights of the Filipino faith

HOUSTON — Filipino Catholics in the Galveston-Houston area gathered for a series of special Masses to celebrate a 500-year journey of faith that continues.

The first of seven Masses was celebrated at Notre Dame Parish in Alief on Sept. 25. Roughly a month later, Sts. Simon and Jude Parish in the Woodlands hosted a Mass on Oct. 29, followed by Prince of Peace Parish in Houston on Nov. 16.

These Masses commemorate five centuries of Christianity

in the Philippines, uniting the Filipino Catholic community in the Archdiocese.

The Sept. 25 Mass opened the series of celebrations. Sept. 25 is also on the feast of St. Lorenzo Ruíz, the first martyr and saint from the Philippines.

St. Ruíz was martyred with missionaries in Japan in 1637 after he refused to renounce his faith.

Canonized 300 years later, he is venerated as a patron saint of the Philippines, youth and altar servers, and for people working overseas.

At the Mass, some women wore See PHILIPPINES, page 4

A SHEPHERD’S MESSAGE † 2

|

Blessings await for pilgrims visiting the Holy Land

BY JO ANN ZUÑIGA Texas Catholic Herald ISRAEL — Journeying to the Holy Land as soon as Israel opened its borders Nov. 1 to tourists vaccinated against COVID-19 opened the eyes of the first incoming LIVING A pilgrims to ChrisLIFE OF tian, Jewish and PRAYER Muslim residents struggling economically the past 20 months.

But Israel temporarily closed its borders again over Thanksgiving weekend for at least two weeks to review the impact of the new Omicron variant of COVID-19.

Only 11 of us, including two priests, Father Peter Towsley, formerly of St. Joseph Church downtown, and Father

Local Filipino Catholics mark 500th anniversary with special Masses

BY JAMES RAMOS Texas Catholic Herald

SPIRITUALITY

A young boy holds a small statue of Santo Niño de Cebu during a festival celebration at Mary Queen Catholic Church in Friendswood in 2020.

COLUMNISTS † 10 - 11

|

ESPAÑOL † 14 |

MILESTONES † 16

See HOLY LAND, page 5

2 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • DECEMBER 14, 2021

El Cardenal Daniel DiNardo comparte su columna en línea en español.

Visite www.archgh.org para leer su artículo en línea.

A Shepherd’s Message

Publishing since 1964 (USPS 936-480) NEWSDESK 713-652-8215 • Fax: 713-659-3444 tch@archgh.org • archgh.org/tch

By Daniel Cardinal DiNardo

“

I bring you good news of a great joy which will come to all the people; for to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord...

You will find a babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.” - Luke 2:10-12 The words of proclamation by the Angel to the shepherds as written in the Gospel of St. Luke are words repeated from earlier verses in the same Gospel about the fact of His birth and will be words spoken again by the shepherds upon seeing the Christ Child. St. Luke seems to dwell on certain details given by the Angel.

The birth of Christ in a manger is no doubt from the tradition St. Luke received. His emphasis on Jesus being placed there may well be due to a reference at the very beginning of the Book of the Prophet Isaiah. The Lord God of Israel complains that the ox knows its owner and the donkey its master’s manger, but Israel has not known me!

Here in the coming of the Savior and the worship and proclamation by the shepherds, that statement is overturned. Israel will now know its Lord!

The emphasis on swaddling clothes may evoke poverty for some and certainly Mary and Joseph are portrayed as humble and poor, as well as obedient to the Law and resourceful in finding ways to approach their situation in faith. But swaddling clothes, rather than emphasizing poverty, are a mark of the care that Mary shows in bringing her first-born Son into the world. He is treasured with human bands of love and affection.

It should also be noted that “Bethlehem” means “House of Bread.”The place where Jesus was born was in Bethlehem, a fact noted by both St. Luke and St. Matthew, who differ on other details. Jesus is born in the city that is known as the House of Bread and He will become the bread of Life for all. No one spends more time on the nature of Christ feeding and nourishing people both with His word and with physical food than does St. Luke. Even in His birth and infancy He is Bread; He is food for those who travel with Him towards the fullness of life with His Father.

Thus, St. Luke gives us important details that are not only cherished memories but ways of teaching and evangelizing!

This has been a difficult year for us because of all the effects of COVID-19. Christmas comes amidst joys and anxieties, hopes and worries, not unlike that first Christmas. We do not have to fear as the Angel told the shepherds. The Savior is here and comes to never abandon us but to lift us up. Merry Christmas! †

THE HOLY FATHER’S PRAYER INTENTIONS — FOR DECEMBER SCAN TO WATCH OFFICIAL PRAYER VIDEO

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“Christmas comes amidst joys and anxieties, hopes and worries, not unlike that first Christmas.”

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Daniel Cardinal DiNardo Archbishop, President & Publisher Jonah Dycus Communications Director & Executive Editor Rebecca Torrellas Managing Editor James Ramos Designer & Reporter Catherine Viola Graphic Designer & Ad Manager Kerry McGuire and Jo Ann Zuñiga Contributor

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PRAYER INTENTION: FOR CATECHISTS

Let us pray for the catechists, summoned to announce the Word of God: may they be its witnesses, with courage and creativity and in the power of the Holy Spirit.

The lay ministry of catechist is a vocation; it’s a mission. Being a catechist means that you ‘are a catechist,’ not that you ‘work as a catechist.’ It’s an entire way of being, and we need good catechists who are both companions and teachers.

We need creative people who proclaim the Gospel, but who proclaim it neither with a mute nor with a loudspeaker, but rather with their life, with gentleness, with a new language, and opening new ways.

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DECEMBER 14, 2021 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

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3

THE FIRST WORD T

O ANTIPHONS

he Roman Church has been singing the “O” Antiphons since at least the eighth century. They are the antiphons that accompany the Magnificat canticle of Evening Prayer from Dec. 17 to 23.

They are a magnificent theology that uses ancient biblical imagery drawn from the messianic hopes of the Old Testament to proclaim the coming Christ as the fulfillment not only of Old Testament hopes, but present ones as well. Their repeated use of the imperative “Come!” embodies the longing of all for the Divine Messiah.

DECEMBER 17

DECEMBER 21

O Wisdom of our God Most High, guiding creation with power and love: come to teach us the path of knowledge!

O Radiant Dawn, splendor of eternal light, sun of justice: come and shine on those who dwell in darkness and in the shadow of death.

DECEMBER 18

DECEMBER 23

O Leader of the House of Israel, giver of the Law to Moses on Sinai: come to rescue us with your mighty power!

O King of all nations and keystone of the Church: come and save man, whom you formed from the dust!

DECEMBER 19

DECEMBER 24

O Root of Jesse’s stem, sign of God’s love for all his people: come to save us without delay!

O Emmanuel, our King and Giver of Law: come to save us, Lord our God!

DECEMBER 20

For resources on how to celebrate the Advent season, including prayers and more, visit www.archgh.org/advent.

O Key of David, opening the gates of God’s eternal Kingdom: come and free the prisoners of darkness!

CHRISTMAS at the CATHEDRALS ST. MARY CATHEDRAL BASILICA 2011 Church St., Galveston · 409-762-9646

English Mass

English Mass with Daniel Cardinal DiNardo

HOUSTON — More than 12,000 participants are expected to gather downtown on Saturday, Feb. 12, 2022 at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart for the 17th Annual Steps for Students 5K Run/Walk. The event raises funds and awareness for the network of 56 Catholic schools in the Archdiocese.

The day starts with Mass at 6:30 a.m. followed by the presentation of the David Guite Spirit Award. Daniel Cardinal DiNardo will bless everyone present just before the 5K race begins at 8 a.m.; a post-race party will follow the event.

Dec. 27 is the deadline to guarantee T-shirt sizes and the last day to order Dri-Fit shirts. The timed-event registration fee is $20 and increases to $30 after Jan. 31, 2022 at 11:59 p.m.

The untimed-event registration fee is $18, and increases to $28 after Jan. 31, 2022 at 11:59 p.m.

To register, or for more information, visit www. steps4students.org. †

Café Catholica Lite set for January

HOUSTON — The Office for Young Adult and Campus Ministry will host the next Café Catholica Lite at St. Joseph Church, located at 1505 Kane St. in Houston, on Jan. 20, 2022, from 7 to 8:45 p.m.

The speaker for the in-person event is Chris Donatto from Adore Ministries. His topic will be “Do You Love Your Neighbor: Living Community.”

The night will include light snacks, the talk, a Q&A and communal prayer. The talk will be available to view online as well at www.archgh.org/cafecatholica.

The Café Catholica program seeks to help young adults ages 18 to 39 encounter Christ and His Church. All young adults are invited to join us for Café Catholica Lite throughout the year.

For more information, contact the Office for Young Adult and Campus Ministry at yacm@archgh.org or 713-741-8778. †

DSF annual appeal to support Archdiocesan ministries continues

HOUSTON — This year, the theme of the annual Diocesan Services Fund (DSF) appeal is “Walk in the Light of Christ.”

The annual campaign to support more than 60 Archdiocesewide ministries is under way and the local Church is asking parishioners to continue their generous giving to DSF. The fund supports a variety of ministries, such as those forming youth in Catholic faith; providing support and preparation for clergy; teaching, evangelizing, worshipping, and outreach to the incarcerated, aging, poor and sick; and programming to strengthen Christian families, among many others. A full list of the ministries supported can be found at www.archgh.org/dsf. The Archdiocese counts on DSF funds to help meet the needs of people in our region.

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

1111 St. Joseph Parkway, Houston · 713-659-1561

▪ FRIDAY, DEC. 24 — CHRISTMAS EVE

4 p.m., 6 p.m. English Mass 8 p.m.

Spanish Mass - Bishop Italo Dell’Oro Midnight English Mass with Cardinal DiNardo

▪ SATURDAY, DEC. 25 — CHRISTMAS DAY 9 a.m.

11 a.m.

Vietnamese Mass English Mass - Bishop Dell’Oro

▪ FRIDAY, DEC. 31 — NEW YEAR’S EVE

▪ SATURDAY, DEC. 25 — CHRISTMAS 12:30 p.m.

Registration for Steps for Students underway

CO-CATHEDRAL OF THE SACRED HEART

▪ FRIDAY, DEC. 24 — CHRISTMAS EVE 8 p.m.

IN BRIEF

5 p.m.

7 p.m.

English Mass Spanish Mass

▪ SATURDAY, JAN. 1, 2022 — NEW YEAR’S DAY 9 a.m.

11 a.m.

English Mass Vietnamese Mass

SYNOD RESOURCES For more information and resources about the local Synod process in the Archdiocese, visit the website at WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/SYNOD.

4 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

LOCAL

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • DECEMBER 14, 2021

ART CONTEST IS READY FOR SUBMISSIONS

Missionary Childhood Association is accepting submissions for its annual art contest. ▪ SEE PAGE 15

Simbang Gabi Mass celebrations begin Dec. 15 PHILIPPINES, from page 1 native silk dresses in pastel colors with delicate stitching, and some men wore traditional barong tagalog, which are embroidered long-sleeved shirts usually made of pineapple or banana plant fibers or other organic materials.

During the Mass, a statue of St. Ruíz, surrounded by floral greenery and bright yellow sunflowers, was placed at the front of the sanctuary. The Mass was celebrated by Archbishop Emeritus Joseph A. Fiorenza.

The liturgical celebration was part of jubilee year events commemorating the first Mass in the Philippines, which was celebrated on Easter, March 31, 1521, by a Spanish priest accompanying the voyage of Ferdinand Magellan.

The explorer died after engaging in a tribal battle there, but the expedition, which began with five ships and 260 men, eventually accomplished the first circumnavigation of the globe. Eighteen surviving crew members arrived in Spain on one remaining ship loaded with spices in September 1522.

The Christian faith has blossomed in the Philippines in the last five centuries.

The Philippines today has the thirdlargest Catholic population in the world, with about 86% of the country’s 110 million inhabitants professing the faith.

More than 10 million Filipino migrants, most of them Catholic, live in 100 countries. A recent survey estimates that 4.2 million Filipinos live in the U.S., about 18% of the Asian U.S. population, with about 2.9 million being Catholic.

Archdiocesan reports estimate there are approximately 50,000 Filipino Catholics worshiping within the Archdiocese, a number that has likely grown.

The next Mass will be the Culmination Simbang Gabi Mass, which is set for 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 23, at St. Bartholomew Parish, located 5356 11th St. in Katy.

Daniel Cardinal DiNardo will celebrate

PHOTO COURTESY OF ANTHONY GARCIA

Archbishop Emeritus Joseph A. Fiorenza celebrates Mass at Notre Dame Catholic Church in Houston on Sept. 25 for the 500th anniversary of Christianity’s arrival in the Philippines and for the feast of St. Lorenzo RuÍz, the first saint from the Philippines.

SIMBANG GABI CULMINATION MASS

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 23 at 6:30 p.m.

WHERE: St. Bartholomew Parish

5356 11th St., Katy WEB: simbanggabi-houston.blogspot.com the Mass.

Simbang Gabi begins on Dec. 15, when some of the Filipino Catholics in the Archdiocese start the beloved Filipino Christmas tradition that consists of a novena of Masses held in anticipation of the Nativity and to honor the Blessed Virgin Mary.

In the Philippines, Simbang Gabi (“Mass at Dawn”) Masses are traditionally held in the early hours of the morning, but in Houston, the Masses are celebrated at night to allow more faithful to attend.

This year, at least 29 parishes from Conroe to La Marque are hosting a Simbang Gabi Mass, with three parishes hosting daily Masses during the entirety of the novena, beginning on Dec. 15.

JOY OF THE GOSPEL In April 2021, as bishops across the Philippines opened holy doors at

Yes, We Do

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cathedrals to help launch the anniversary year, Pope Francis encouraged Filipino Catholics to “be grateful for the gift of faith” and called them to “reach out to others and bring them the hope and joy of the Gospel.”

Filipino cardinal, Luis Cardinal Tagle, prefect of the Vatican Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples and former archbishop of Manila, praised the “hidden simple witnesses to the faith” for five centuries that have contributed to “our character as Filipinos, to the betterment of the Filipino culture and to the formation of the Filipino nation.”

In addition to the Dec. 23 Mass, three more Masses will conclude the eightmonth celebration. St. Dominic will host a Mass on Jan. 15 at 10 a.m. Sacred Heart of Jesus in Manvel will host a Mass in February 2022 and the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart will host the final Mass in April 2022.

For more information about the Filipino Ministry Council, visit www. fmc-hou.blogspot.com. For the full Simbang Gabi Christmas schedule, visit simbanggabi-houston.blogspot.com. † - Catholic News Service contributed to this story.

ST. LORENZO RUIZ PHOTO COURTESY OF ARCHDIOCESE OF CHICAGO

MEET TWO FILIPINO SAINTS · St. Lorenzo Ruiz

Born on Nov. 28, 1594, St. Lorenzo Ruiz was a married layman from Manila who became the first martyr of the Philippines when he was executed in Japan during the persecution of Japanese Christians in the 17th century.

On Sept. 27, 1647, Lorenzo and his companions in Japan were tortured to death for their Christianity. He was beatified in 1981 and canonized in 1987 by then-pope St. John Paul II.

· St. Pedro Calungsod

Born in 1672 in Ginatilan, Philippines, St. Pedro Calungsod was educated by the Jesuits, learning Visayan, Spanish and Chamorro. In face of opposition, he traveled to the Mariana Islands to spread the faith.

St. Pedro Calungsod was martyred on April 2, 1672, at Tomhom, Guam, while trying to defend Blessed Diego Luis de San Vitores from an attacking mob. He was canonized in 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI. †

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5

A pilgrim’s journey to go see where Jesus lived HOLY LAND, from page 1 Joseph Nguyen of St. Vincent de Paul Church, were blessed to be part of the first group leaving from Houston to Istanbul Nov. 2.

Within that four-week window, before the parted seas slammed back, pilgrims bittersweetly enjoyed some of the most sacred Holy Land sites in the world almost to themselves. Instead of usual shoulder-to-shoulder crowds, the Catholic churches echoed with just a few voices.

We were able to meditate and pray quietly before the Virgin Mary’s cave-like home tucked below what is now a massive two-story Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth. The solemn peace seemed almost a miracle in itself instead of the usual chattering in multiple languages.

Here is where the Archangel Gabriel appeared to Mary, saying she would become the mother of the Son of God. And Mary uttered her consent, “Let it be done to me according to your word.”

Inside the cave stands an altar with the Latin inscription “Here the Word was made flesh,” Jesus incarnate.

The original Houston plan to have a group of 30-plus pilgrims whittled away to 11 disciples by the barrage of requirements of vaccines, boosters, negative PCR tests and other necessities for traveling in the time of pandemic.

Organized by Nativity Pilgrimage and Catholic tour coordinator Lori Janak, the trip Nov. 2 through 12 finally made

PHOTO BY JO ANN ZUÑIGA/HERALD

Married couple JoAnn and Joe Uriegas, Houston parishioners of St. Joseph Church downtown, renewed their vows on their 48th wedding anniversary at the Church of Cana in Israel during a recent pilgrimage.

Concelebrating were Father Peter Towsley and Father Joseph Nguyen, who also participated in the pilgrimage during the four-week window when Israel opened its borders.

its destination to the Tel Aviv airport and the Holy Land beyond. The 7,000-mile trek, including a 15-hour plane ride and then miles of walking on cobblestones through markets and churches, was so worth any fear and pain, soothed away by prayer.

Despite the continuing border closures, Janak said she was not giving up on her ministry of leading pilgrims to the Holy Land, describing how her

mission came as a calling when she taught as a catechist.

“I heard a voice so plainly and clearly speaking to me saying, ‘You have been teaching about me, come and see where I lived,’” she recalled.

We met our Israeli guide George Stephan, who recalled playing as a child in the caves at the back of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Now with degrees in Biblical history and theology, he acts

as a VIP tour guide leading pilgrims throughout Israel, including Mel Gibson for the movie “The Passion,” Catholic author Scott Hahn and singer/songwriter John Michael Talbot.

But even for Stephan and his family, the past 20 months have been tough with zero tourism.

“I’ve gone through my savings and then had to take out a bank loan. We pray to God that things will get better,” he said.

If tourism does not improve, he’s considering reopening his grandfather’s store in the Old Jerusalem marketplace as a florist shop. But wherever we went, Stephan was greeted like a long-lost friend by church guards, office workers and merchants after not seeing each other for almost two years.

While visiting the stark Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes, the power and love of Christ to feed His people overcame me. Warm tears flowed while praying the Angelus with our group among ancient mosaics and two icons of Mary and Jesus. A limestone boulder juts out from under the altar traditionally where Jesus blessed the food. Of the many miracles attributed to Jesus in the Scriptures, only two are recounted in all four Gospels: the feeding of the 5,000plus and the resurrection.

This church in Tabgha, an Arabic translation of the Greek name meaning Seven Springs, is not far from Capernaum See HOLY LAND, page 7

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6 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • DECEMBER 14, 2021

Bishop George Sheltz Archdiocesan Altar Server Appreciation Mass Honoring Altar Server Attendees Who Served For Five Years Or Longer: Ascension Chinese Mission Anthony Nguyen Jonathan Nguyen

Christ the Incarnate Word Khoi Nguyen Cindy Vu Vincent Vu

Assumption Diego Alfaro Karen Alfaro Emmanuel Cruz William Cruz Christina Escobar Francisco Escobar Alondra Rocha Aaron Flores Alora Flores Clarissa Flores Moises Flores Dulce Franco Flor Franco Hector Lopez Daniel Morales Israel Neri Lizeth Neri Cittiali Ramirez Yaretzi Ramirez

Christ the King Esmeralda Chavez Emilano Lozano Luis Martinez Lilyana Palomo Juritza Pantoja Itzel Pineda Maria Jose Ponce Selena Ponce Joselyn Sanchez Mariana Sanchez

Blessed Sacrament Ximena Acosta Yessenia Hernandez Delaila Martinez Valeria Mova Merlina Ramirez Heidy Reyes Abril Vega Christopher Vega Allison Velasquez Darlenne Velasquez Christ the Good Shepherd Jacob Lawrence Theodora Pavlovic Jesus Morales Caroloine Wheir Christopher Wheir

Corpus Christi Matthew Mejia Guardian Angel, Wallis Brayden A. Hanzelka Holy Family, Galveston Edward S. Hoffman Preeti Joseph Pedro A. Koenning Logan A. Mitchell Abisai B. Moran Jonathan Moran Holy Family, Missouri City Amarachi C. Asiegbu Alessandro J. Cubillan Bethany M. Gaspar Emanuel Gomez Luna M. Ramos Immaculate Heart of Mary Yuribel Aguirre Guadalupe Araiza Felix Cadengo Diego Cerda Frida Cerda Lesley Martinez

Marcos Martinez Isaac J. Morin Steve Morin Samantha Pena Julia Sanchez Alexis Torres Gabriela Varela Mary Queen Jayson Babanto Bryan Camanillo Joaquin Krancher Patrick O’Leary Elodie Ridout Ethan Westrup Most Holy Trinity, Angleton Avery E. Aaron Marisa L. Aaron Sophia R. Aaron Allan Alquinto Allena Alquinto Troy M. Bala Adriana L. Belmares Enrique S. Buentello Danny Cortez Christian M. Estrada Olivia M. Hernandez Mary C. Hughes Patrick Hughes Peter Hughes Liam M. Potato Timothy S. Talavera Our Lady of Fatima, Galena Park Julie Arellano Edgar Arevalo Evelyn Avalos David Beavers Aldredo Bonilla Judy Cruz Kelly Delgado Janet Lara Juan Lara

Our Lady of Lourdes, Hitchcock Callie Patterson Drake Patterson

St. Anne, Houston Emily Quin Aaron Rucker Franchesca Sentmanat

Our Lady of St. John Alejanbro Gassca Cruz Gonzalez Sophia Gonzalez Yuliana Pacos Alexandria Perez Kimberly Ortiz Abraham Ramos

St. Anne, Tomball Elizabeth Helen Riedel Wesley Paul Riedel

Prince of Peace Augustine Rudolph Sacred Heart, Crosby Abigail Gaytan Andres Gaytan Jr. Celestt I. Guevara Shrine of the True Cross Dominic A. Clements Nicholas J. Clements Bryan Dryer Michael Dryer Alex Ortiz Roman R. Rojas St. Ambrose America Arevalo Sophia Hernandez Evan Wisnoski St. Angela Merici Aiden Abraham Justin P. Fernandez Michael A. Fernandez Markus Karlsson Laurel Kelley Addyson Reyna Ashley Thomas Dominic Unruh Lucas Unruh

St. Bartholomew Uriel Barron Robert M. Chachere Jocelyn Flores Yamileth Flores Jasmin Gomez Jesus Gonzalez Luke Gosch Scarlett Gosch Anthony Isikalu Vanessa Isikalu Gabriela A. Marmolejo Joshua Okolo Jessica Okonkwa Michael Okonkwa Natalia Perez Ramiro Rodriguez Alexis Sandoval Joseph Troxler Fatima Vazquez Nick Williams Alex Williams St. Charles Borromeo Leroy Cortez Isaac Duran Angel Esqueda Diego Esqueda Christian Morales Juan Villarreal Billy Zelaya St. Dominic Geanne Albright Tyson Briggs Minerva Flores Miranda Flores

Noelia Franco Amalia Gomez Brianna Gonzalez Kevin Gonzalez Kathryn Lamanilao Gustavo Lemus Lourdes Lemus Miranda Miranda Christian Penaflor Jubert Penaflor Jesus Rivera Jose Rivera Rene Rivera Angel Soto Jericho Urbano St. Francis de Sales Maria Garcia Ariel M. Martinez Francisco R. Martinez Noah Martinez Laura Olvera St. Helen Sarah E. Edwards Gabi A. Falcon Michael Frausto Ava E. Ingram Bailey E. Jarrell Richard H. Johnigan Claire T. Michael Matthew J. Michael Peyton A. Rucker Nicholas M. Zakarevicz St. John of the Cross Jose Guadalupe Fernandez Leslie Fernandez Natalie Ferenandez Marcos Hernandez Gabriel Molinero Brianna Molinero Jackie Rangel Jasmin Saldana

St. Joseph, Stoneham William T. Grant St. Jude Tommy R. Gonzalez Luis A. Gonzalez Fabian Mejias Joel Mejias Gael Segura Keylen Segura St. Lawrence Jamie Reyes St. Leo the Great Steven Jordan Salazar St. Mary Magdalene Valerie Hernandez Christopher Julian Mendoza Nelson Emanuelle Mendoza Rosemary Mendoza St. Mary, Plantersville Madeline M. Holmes Charles H. O’Brien St. Mathias, Magnolia David Benitez Octavio Daskalos Daisy Juarez Nelson Juarez Jonathan Kreitz David Rios Nazli Rios Josue Sanchez St. Matthew the Evangelist Jesse Adam Espinosa Karol Garcia Nicolas Israel Gomez Alan Jesus Gonzalez America Lozano Viridyana M. Mendez Yasmin Nicole Ramirez Amelia Salome Reyes

Thank You to the Following: Retired Auxiliary Bishop George Sheltz, Celebrant, and Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, Con-Celebrant Altar Server Mass Co-Chairs: Larry Massey, Candice Tyrrell and the Committee | Serra Clubs and Scanlan Foundation Chris Labadie from the Office of Worship and the Office of Vocations | Dr. Crista Miller and the Co-Cathedral Choir & Quartet Frederick Warren: photographer; fwphotography@live.com | Jean Sanfelippo: Calligraphy altar server certificates

St. Paul the Apostle Marco Jimenez Aylin Lopez David Moreno Leticia Peregrina Aracely Peregrina Jayden Ruiz St. Phillip Neri David Collins Christopher Kyle Matthew Kyle Chase K. Walker Chassidy M. Walker Damren J. Ware St. Thomas Aquinas Rhoderic Fernandez Tyler Thompson St. Vincent de Paul Maria Jose Calderon David Casarez Jasmine Casarez Theodore Castillo-Diaz Angelica Dela Rosa Bridget Dela Rosa Catherine Dela Rosa Nicholas Garcia John Paul Herrera Aidan Nanquil Ira Navaro Amanda Nguyen Andrea Nguyen Hayden Osborn Mary Rose Rawson Mikael Mari Roldan Shawn Varkey Vietnamese Martyrs Anthony Do Nhi H. Le Thieh A. Le Donald V. Nguyen Huy Q. Nguyen

DECEMBER 14, 2021 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

LOCAL

Almost 300 altar servers thanked with a special Mass of appreciation HOUSTON — Close to 300 altar servers, boys and girls, were recognized for their dedication to God at the second annual Bishop George Sheltz Altar Servers Appreciation Mass on Nov. 13.

Up to 900 people, including families and others, attended the Mass at the Sacred Heart of the Co-Cathedral to support the youths.

“What a blessing to see the 279 Altar Servers from 42 different parishes come together as one body of Christ!” said Candice Tyrrell, a committee co-chair organizing the Mass.

As a Serra U.S. executive board member, part of an international association to promote religious vocations, Tyrrell said, “As Serrans, our mission is to foster more vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life. We pray many altar servers open their hearts to a religious vocation as we desperately need more priests and sisters in our world today.”

A recent survey showed that about 73% of newly ordained priests served as altar servers before entering seminary.

Fellow co-chair Larry Massey, president of the Scanlan Foundation, agreed with the strategic mission of “building a culture of vocations to the priesthood, religious life and holy families. That is why we are so excited to help Serra with this Mass.”

They both work closely with Father Richard McNeillie, Archdiocesan director of Vocations, who travels from the Houston chancery to area college campuses and seminaries across the state to encourage and guide students.

Meanwhile, the number of Catholics in the U.S. has increased from 48 million in 1965 to more than 70 million, not counting the 30 million or so lapsed Catholics. An annual ordination report from the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA) reflects those who responded among the 600 men being ordained in the U.S. The survey shows they are from HOLY LAND, from page 5 where Jesus lived as an adult and the Sea of Galilee. The current church constructed in 1984 is built over an original small chapel from the 4th century AD, then over a large Byzantine monastery and church during the 5th century destroyed in the 7th century.

But the land still remembers. After excavations in the 1980s, the Church of the Multiplication was restored to its Byzantine form with portions of the original colorful mosaics of fish, bread, flowers and birds.

Among our Houston group, married couple Jo Ann and Joe Uriegas, parishioners of St. Joseph Church in Houston, joyfully celebrated their 48th wedding anniversary together. They renewed their marriage vows at the Franciscan church called the Wedding Church of Cana, built upon the remains of earlier Crusader and Byzantine churches.

This is the site of Jesus’ first miracle of turning water into wine, demonstrating divine power to transform not just liquids but lives, said Father Towsley. To have run out of wine would have been very embarrassing to the family hosting the wedding feast, and since these feasts could last as long as a week, there would be quite a bit of wine needed.

As we know from the Bible, Mary

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THE GIFT OF FORGIVENESS: A GUIDE TO THE SACRAMENT When was the last time you went to confession? Has it been a while? The Sacrament of Penance, also known as reconciliation or confession, may seem intimidating for many, but with some simple preparation, it can be a peaceful healing encounter with Christ and His Church. Take this guide with you to confession as a way of reflection and rediscover the Sacrament of Penance.

Reconciliation is a Sacrament instituted by Jesus Christ in His love and mercy to offer sinners forgiveness for offenses committed against God. At the same time, sinners reconcile with the Church because it is also wounded by our sins.

Every time we sin, we hurt ourselves, other people and God. In Reconciliation, we acknowledge our sins before God and His Church. We express our sorrow in a meaningful way, receive the forgiveness of Christ and His Church, make reparation for what we have done, and resolve to do better in the future.

THE FOUR PARTS OF CONFESSION

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE SERRA CLUB

Boys and girls who serve as altar servers around the Archdiocese were recognized at the second annual Bishop George Sheltz Altar Servers Appreciation Mass on Nov. 13.

a variety of backgrounds who responded to God’s call to serve His people — 67% Caucasian; 16% Hispanic; 10% Asian; 6% African/African American.

Across the country, the average age of ordination this year is 34, although the respondents were an average of 16 years old when they first considered a call to the priesthood. About 40% of all respondents attended a Catholic school for at least some of their education. Overall, 73% served as altar servers before entering the seminary. Half served as readers and 40% as extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion. † - Jo Ann Zuñiga told the servants, “do whatever He tells you,” and Jesus willed about 100 to 150 gallons of water into wine. Not just any wine, apparently, but the very best, the priest recounted.

Jo Ann Uriegas said, “Our trip to the Holy Land was a dream come true for my Honey and me. And renewing our marriage vows in Cana where Jesus performed His first miracle was so special to us.”

During their ceremony in Cana, I was happy for them, but my heart hurt because I so wished my husband, Deacon Frank Berntsen, and I could have shared our renewal of vows as well as part of his bucket list to visit the Holy Land. But he passed away in 2016 from a cancerous brain tumor.

Then as if on cue, my attention was drawn to the flowers that happened to decorate the altar. They were white and purple — the same color combo as my wedding bouquet of white roses and irises that Frank and I chose together.

My heart calmed, for I was reminded once again that he is with me. This trip for me was to fulfill his dream, but he’s in the real Holy Land of peace.

May our Advent and Christmas prayers include pleas to help the Christians and others struggling in the Holy Land. † Editor’s note: Part 2 of “Blessings await for pilgrims visiting the Holy Land” will be featured in the Dec. 28 issue.

• CONTRITION: a sincere sorrow for having offended God, and the most

important act of the penitent. There can be no forgiveness of sin if we

do not have sorrow and a firm resolve not to repeat our sin.

• CONFESSION: confronting our sins in a profound way to God by speaking

about them — aloud — to the priest.

• PENANCE: an important part of our healing is the “penance” the priest

imposes in reparation for our sins.

• ABSOLUTION: the priest says the words by which “God, the Father of

Mercies” reconciles a sinner to Himself through the merits of the Cross.

A BRIEF EXAMINATION OF CONSCIENCE

Adapted from Examination of Conscience based on the Ten Commandments

Take a moment to reflect on how sin has damaged your relationships.

▪ Have I treated people, events, or things as more important than God? ▪ Have my words, actively or passively, put down God, the Church, or people?

▪ Do I ‘keep Holy the Sabbath’? Do I go to Mass every Sunday (or Saturday

Vigil) and on Holy Days of Obligation, as is possible? Do I avoid, when

possible, work that impedes worship to God, joy for the Lord’s Day, and

proper relaxation of mind and body? Do I look for ways to spend time with

family or in service on Sunday?

▪ Do I show my parents due respect? Do I seek to maintain good

communication with my parents where possible? Do I criticize them for

lacking skills I think they should have?

▪ Have I harmed another through physical, verbal, or emotional means,

including gossip or manipulation of any kind?

▪ Have I respected the physical and sexual dignity of others and of myself?

▪ Have I taken or wasted time or resources that belonged to another?

▪ How do I protect and care for God’s creation, including my family, the

environment and those around me?

RITE OF RECONCILIATION STEPS

▪ If it has been a while, let the priest know and he can help guide you through the steps for a good confession.

1. Priest gives a blessing or greeting.

2. Make the Sign of the Cross and say, “Bless me,

Father, for I have sinned. My last confession

was [length of time] ago.”

3. Confess all of your sins to the priest. (If you are

unsure or uneasy, tell him and ask for help.)

4. Say, “I am sorry for these and all of my sins.”

5. The priest gives a penance and offers advice to

help you be a better Catholic.

6. Say an Act of Contrition, expressing your sorrow

for your sins. The priest, acting in the person of

Christ, then absolves you from your sins.

AN ACT OF CONTRITION

God, I am heartily sorry for having offended you, and I detest all my sins because I dread the loss of heaven and the pains of hell; but most of all because they offend you, my God, who are all good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve with the help of your grace to confess my sins, do penance, and to amend my life. Amen.

7

8 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD LOCAL

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • DECEMBER 14, 2021

Young Catholics disconnect to reconnect with God, friends and nature at retreat facility

BY KERRY MCGUIRE Herald Correspondent HOUSTON — For more than four decades, deep in the heart of the piney woods, the young Church has found safe and holy grounds to disconnect from their busy lives and familiar environments to reconnect with God, nature and each other in community.

Camp Kappe Youth Retreat, located on 130-acres in Plantersville, about an hour north of Houston, has provided a quality and unique Catholic camp experience for children, youth and young adults in parishes and schools throughout the Archdiocese and surrounding dioceses.

Operated by the Office of Adolescent Catechesis and Evangelization, the camp offers youth retreats, youth camps and spiritual-growth programs that are based on Catholic values and traditions rooted in Christ and guided by the Holy Spirit through sacred Scripture and tradition.

Camp Kappe also offers one of the largest accredited environmental programs in the nation, serving Catholic fifth graders at the School of Environmental Education.

Sarah Ornelas attended Camp Kappe over 15 years ago while in high school as an Archdiocesan Youth Council (AYC) member. She feels this opportunity allowed council members to personally grow deeper in their faith and relationship with God while forming strong bonds of friendship and community to minister together in unity.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE OFFICE OF ADOLESCENT CATECHESIS AND EVANGELIZATION

Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, at center, meets with the Archdiocesan Youth Council at Camp Kappe. The group is comprised of high school students who help lead and facilitate youth events within the Archdiocese.

“We wouldn’t have felt like a true council without being able to gather somewhere that we knew we could feel safe to explore our faith and friendships, and Camp Kappe provided that for us,” Ornelas said. “From washing dishes in the old kitchen to canoeing with friends, to worshiping together inside and out, Kappe was a safe place and felt very much like a second home to many of us.”

Randy Adams, executive director of Camp Kappe, also attended high school retreats in the early 1980s when the camp was first built. He said his own life was shaped by this opportunity to be surrounded by nature and programs exclusively focused on youth. A decade later, when Adams was a youth minister, he gave this same experience to those participating in his parish youth program.

Adams said before the COVID-19 pandemic, Camp Kappe served over 4,200 participants representing 40 parishes and 52 Catholic schools in the Archdiocese.

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“This was an increase in attendance from previous years made possible through recent renovations to the facilities and the amazing staff members who are devoted to making sure that each experience is a great experience for all at the camp,” said Adams.

Camp Kappe is one of the 60-plus ministries supported by the Diocesan Services Fund (DSF). Adams said without this financial assistance, parish retreats and the School of Environmental Education would not be available for most parishes or schools.

“DSF provides the funding we need to make these programs possible and affordable for the participants no matter what their economic situation may be,” said Adams. “It is one of the most affordable centers in the state helping to enrich the lives of its students in their journey to be good disciples in their faith.”

James Carrasco, associate director of Faith Formation at Sacred Heart of Jesus

Your help is needed TODAY!

Your help is needed TODAY!

Visit www.archgh.org/ignite and click ‘Donate Now’ to make your gift online.

Visit www.archgh.org/ignite and click ‘Donate Now’ to make your gift online.

OR scan this QR code with your camera app to launch the IGNITE giving page.

OR scan this QR code with your camera app to launch the IGNITE giving page.

Thank you for your support!

Thank you for your support!

The 2021 Diocesan Services Fund theme draws from a hope: “Walk in the Light of Christ.” DSF operates in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston each year to help the Church carry out the ministries of teaching and sanctifying.

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

Church in Manvel, was a fifth-grade camper in the School of Environmental Education more than 30 years ago.

He currently facilitates Confirmation retreats at Camp Kappe and believes the DSF allows the camp to offer the best retreat experiences at affordable prices for every parish. He said without the funding, parishes would have to spend more time fundraising for retreats instead of focusing on evangelization and catechesis.

“As a parish youth minister, I am profoundly grateful for the opportunities that Camp Kappe has made possible for thousands of teenagers whose families could not afford a retreat at any other facility,” said Carrasco. “These young people have been able to experience spiritually powerful and authentically Catholic retreats in an environment that helps them encounter the living God. It also is such a blessing to have a camp facility that has been thoughtfully designed for youth with mobility needs, and I am very proud that our own Archdiocese has taken the time, effort and expense to ensure that the facilities at Camp Kappe are accessible to all young people.”

Ornelas agrees that the support from the Archdiocese through the DSF has helped Camp Kappe become what it is today for the young Church and will continue to be as long as it continues.

Ornelas agrees that the support from the Archdiocese through the DSF has helped Camp Kappe become what it is today for the young Church and will Your help is needed TODAY! continue to be as long as it continues.

“Our youth have come to know each other and Christ in a bigger and deeper Visit www.archgh.org/ignite and click way at Camp Kappe,” said Ornelas. “Our ‘Donate Now’ to make your gift online. youth have watched buildings come to OR scan this QR code life, named buildings for some amazing with your camera app and super cool saints, cleaned the grounds and buildings themselves, and to launch the planned awesome worship opportunities IGNITE giving page. like praying lakeside, prayer walks through nature, and more recently, Mass in the new chapel. I am sure more and Thank you more good will come of Camp Kappe and for your its programs as we continue to give to the support!

DSF.” For more about Camp Kappe, visit www.archgh.org/campkappe. To learn more about the DSF, go to https://www. archgh.org/dsf/. †

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LOCAL

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9

EDUCATION CATHOLIC SCHOOLS AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE IN PHOTOS ST. ANTHONY OF PADUA - THE WOODLANDS

PHOTO COURTESY OF ST. ANTHONY OF PADUA CATHOLIC SCHOOL IN THE WOODLANDS

Students at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic School in The Woodlands held a piñata contest in Spanish class. A variety of entries featured Santa Claus, a taco, a snow man, a hot air balloon, a reindeer, a bumble bee and a decorated red egg.

ST. AMBROSE

PHOTO COURTESY OF ST. AMBROSE CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Students at St. Ambrose Catholic School in Houston joined the St. Ambrose parish community for an outdoor procession for the Feast of Christ the King on Nov. 21.

2021 DSF_ 9.75x14full pg ad.pdf

ST. THERESA - SUGAR LAND

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12/22/20

4:14 PM

Caminar en la Luz de Cristo

PHOTO COURTESY OF ST. THERESA CATHOLIC SCHOOL IN SUGAR LAND

A Christmas collection drive hosted by students at St. Theresa Catholic School in Sugar Land benefited Cross Catholic Outreach’s “Box of Joy” campaign. The school joined communities nationwide in organizing boxes with small gifts like toys and school supplies, and other essentials, like soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes, as well as a few treats like candy and coloring books. The school put together nearly 100 boxes thanks to the efforts of Josephine Dipasupil, a school parent.

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our gift allows Christ's light to shine brightly through the 60 plus DSF ministries.

Please join us this year as we come together as Catholics to serve the community.

Your support is needed now more than ever. As always, each of you are in my prayers.

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

HOLY ROSARY - ROSENBERG

PHOTO COURTESY OF HOLY ROSARY CATHOLIC SCHOOL - ROSENBERG

Father Orrin Halepeska, pastor at Holy Rosary Catholic Church and School in Rosenberg and St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Beasley, visits with Holy Rosary Catholic School students during a Thanksgiving celebration. Students colored headdresses and handmade placemats.

DArchdiocese iocesan Services Fund of Galveston-Houston archgh.org/dsf Please consider a gift to DSF.

10 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • DECEMBER 14, 2021

YOUTH A season of hope, prayer for families Advent is the season of hope in the Lord; the first candle of our Advent wreath is themed with hope. Our hope is in the Lord; we believe He is our Redeemer and will come again to save us. Advent is a time to prepare ourselves for His coming. During this season, we pray and reflect on how to be the best person we can be to prepare for the day

we meet Christ in His second coming.

Perhaps for adults with a mature faith, this is an easy concept. But how do parents help build this faith and understanding in their families?

A family activity that can lead to preparation for Advent is to discuss each other’s dreams.

A person with a dream aspires and

The Christian Renewal Center is owned by the Archdiocese and 100% financially operated by the laity.

COVID-19 has created challenges for our financial operations. We are asking each person to consider giving an end of the year gift according to their means.

The CRC is the largest capacity Catholic retreat center in the Archdiocese.

Help us continue our mission by making a donation today!

Donate online at

retreatcentercrc.org or mail in to CRC, PO Box 699, Dickinson, Texas 77539

hopes to accomplish something. A few questions to discuss in family could be: What are your dreams? Why do you believe that to be important? Who will that serve? How will your faith in God help you accomplish your dream? Have you thought about asking God to help you with your hopes and dreams?

This family discussion may lend toward an understanding of how we can be people in waiting for Christ’s coming.

It might lend an understanding that when we talk to God and strive to improve ourselves for Christ, we are preparing ourselves to be ready for Christ’s second coming.

Another family discussion point might be that we should strive to stand firm in faith and hope even when it looks like we did not get what we wanted or prayed for. It is wonderful to know that God wants more for us than we know or dare to ask for ourselves.

God always provides a better way for us than we ever expected. God is allpowerful. God will use our mishaps for our betterment if we wait and believe.

Advent prayer can lead to repentance in our lives. Prayer draws us closer to God. Making us more aware of the

goodness and need to change for the good. The action of prayer is God’s invitation for us to grow closer to His light.

The more we pray, the more we grow in our desire to be with Him. by Family prayer may be as simple as calling NORMA everyone together at TOROK mealtime. Invite everyone to offer something they are grateful for.

Finally, a family can conclude their prayer with “Come Lord Jesus.”

If family prayer is to simply sit together and pray the phrase “Come Lord Jesus” and then offer a brief time of silence for prayers in their hearts, how blessed is a beloved family to have spent time with the Savior, longing for his coming.

Come Lord Jesus! †

†

Norma Torok is a former associate director of the Office of Adolescent Catechesis and Evangelization.

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COLUMNISTS How to avoid mutiny: The Synod on Synodality Mutiny. Rebellion.

Revolt.

When I first began working for the Church, I never would have imagined that these words would ever come into play within the life by of ministry. I was proven wrong within my first ANGIE three months on the job.

POMETTO I started in ministry as a volunteer on the Life Teen Core Team at St. Mary of Sorrows Parish in Fairfax, Virginia. As part of that team, I led what we affectionately called the praise and worship team for the 5 p.m. Youth and Family Mass.

After three years as a volunteer, I accepted a full-time position in ministry at St. Mark Parish in Vienna, Virginia. I was pleased to learn that St. Mark also had a Youth and Family Mass, although theirs only happened once a month. I was also glad to find out that they had a dozen teens who had been involved with music for this Mass.

Within the first few weeks of starting the new job, I met with these musical teens for the first time. In looking back on that meeting, I would have said that I listened. I thought I had asked the young people about their past experiences with leading music for the Mass. I believed that I kept those experiences in mind as I began to lead the group. However, at the end of this first meeting, I made one fatal mistake. I suggested that we change the name of the group and that we begin calling ourselves the praise and worship team.

Yes, I tried to change something! It was definitely a rookie mistake, and I soon learned why.

In response to my proposed change, three of the older teens basically organized a coup. They gathered all the music people together at their house to have a “real” music practice — without me.

Thankfully, one of the other parents alerted me to what was happening. In my second meeting with the group, I started the meeting by apologizing and by promising to be a better listener going forward. The young people accepted my apology, and together we came up with the name for the group: Teen Choir.

Pope Francis is asking the Church to host a Synod on Synodality. What does that mean? I believe that the heart of

†

SYNOD RESOURCES For more information and resources about the Synod process in the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston, visit the official website at WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/SYNOD. this movement is that Pope Francis desires this to be a Church that always listens to the people of God. Listening is not easy. I thought I had listened to the teens when I first began at St. Mark. However, what I heard was filtered through the lens of my past experience at St. Mary of Sorrows. In order to be good listeners, we as Church leaders need to let go of our own experiences and assumptions and open ourselves to receiving what the other is saying. I’m sure that some of what is said in these synod conversations will be positive and encouraging. I’m also sure that we may also encounter stories of brokenness and missed opportunities. I hope that we can receive those stories with the same openness and care as the positive ones.

I’ve heard some people asking about what the main point of this synod might be. I would argue that the end goal of this synod is not to create some final document or come up with any actionable steps. What is important is that we engage again in the act — the art — of listening. It is important that we keep the goal of listening at the heart of ministry and that we come back to these conversations again and again and again.

And maybe, with God’s grace, this practice of listening will help us to avoid mutiny and rebellion in the future. † Angie Pometto serves as the director of the Office of Young Adult and Campus Ministry.

Advent: Pause, wait and prepare I am not always the most patient person. I don’t like waiting in line. I really don’t like waiting for my computer to boot up when I get to my office in the morning. In my life, waiting and moving slowly and deliberately more often give way to urgency and immediacy.

I know that I am not alone in this regard. It seems that our society doesn’t particularly prize waiting either.

Advertising is full of buzzwords like “quick,”“easy” and “convenient.”Two-day delivery now seems slow and plodding in an era of same-day delivery. During this pandemic, I think most of us have experienced the frustration of waiting for a return to normal, especially since when that might come is unknown to us still. I don’t think there is anything inherently bad in wanting our groceries, fast food, furniture, or post-pandemic life as soon as possible. But still, there are some instances in which patience and waiting can be virtues.

Waiting patiently is intentional and is a choice. It can cause us to slow down and look more clearly and more deeply.

Patient waiting can open us up to ideas and realizations that would never have occurred to us had we been in more of a hurry. Patient waiting also has the ability

to help us grow in anticipation and longing.

Most of us have been taught that it isn’t a good idea to go looking for hidden Christmas presents early and peek; there is something good by about allowing the anticipation to build and BRIAN being surprised on GARCIAChristmas morning.

LUENSE Cooking is another example of patient waiting. On the days when we have time to slow-cook a roast, the savory smell permeates the entire house, and it whets our appetites. Our satisfaction when we sit down to the meal hours later is heightened by the anticipation. Of course, the adage that “absence makes the heart grow fonder” speaks to this idea as well.

We are now in the middle of the season of Advent. It is good to remind ourselves that this season is intended to be about patience, waiting, anticipation and longing. I think that our society has

†

See LUENSE, page 13

Praying for the souls in Purgatory Why should we pray for the dead? If they are already in heaven, they do not need our prayers. On the contrary, we need their intercession. If someone is eternally damned in hell, our prayers will not help them either. Praying for the dead implies that there is some need that our intercessions can resolve for those who have died.

The Scripture passage often cited in favor of the Church’s practice of praying for the dead is 2 Maccabees 12:44-46: “For if He were not expecting the fallen to rise again, it would have been superfluous and foolish to pray for the dead. But if He did this with a view to the splendid reward that awaits those who had gone to rest in godliness, it was a holy and pious thought. Thus He made atonement for the dead that they might be absolved from their sin.”

Judas Maccabeus and his followers prayed for the dead and collected money so that a sacrifice might be offered for them in the temple. The Church continues this practice with the celebration of every Mass whereby the Church prays for all of the living and all of the dead.

Following the Solemnity of All Saints

on Nov. 1, the Church celebrates the Feast of All Souls on Nov. 2 to focus the Church’s intercession upon the members of the Church who have died and are not yet “part of that number” when “the saints go marching in.” by The Feasts of All Saints ROLAND and All Souls highlights a MILLARE central mark of the Church: unity or communion.

The Church is made up of a communion of women, men and children as part of the Church militant on earth, the Church suffering in Purgatory, and the Church triumphant in heaven. In light of this communion of the members of the Body of Christ, we can pray for the living and the dead and we can ask for the intercession of those who experience the beatific communion we are made for.

The Church has consistently affirmed the doctrine of Purgatory and the importance of praying for the souls in

†

See MILLARE, page 13

SUNDAY MASS READINGS DECEMBER 19 First Reading: Mic 5:1-4 Resp. Psalm: Ps 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19 Second Reading: Heb 10:5-10 Gospel: Lk 1:39-45

DECEMBER 26 First Reading: Sir 3:2-7, 12-14 or 1 Sam 1:20-22, 24-28 Resp. Psalm: Ps 128:1-5 or Ps 84:2-3, 5-6, 9-10 Second Reading: Col 3:12-21 or 1 Jn 3:1-2, 21-24 Gospel: Lk 2:22-40 or Lk 2:41-52

“One of the greatest gifts of our time is the rediscovery of Sacred Scripture in the life of the Church and the faithful.” - Pope Francis

12 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • DECEMBER 14, 2021

NATION Bishops to lead 3-year Eucharist-focused efforts ASSEMBLY, from page 1

by Galveston-Houston Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, who was attending the annual gathering for the first time.

On other matters, Cardinal DiNardo and Bishop Dell’Oro, alongside other bishops, were invited to take a multicultural journey with young Catholics to Chicago next June; were urged to implement a framework for marriage and family ministry that they had approved at their spring assembly in June; agreed to begin review of the “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People” earlier than planned; and heard how the pandemic may have slowed but not stopped a pro-life initiative called “Walking With Moms in Need.”

They approved guidelines governing the USCCB’s financial investments that include wider limits on where money would be invested. The guidelines advance a policy of engagement on corporate practices that impact human dignity.

The prelates, meeting in person for a national gathering for the first time since 2019, also approved guidelines for the exposition of the Eucharist and Benediction, affirmed sainthood causes for three U.S. laypeople, approved revisions of statutes for the catechumenate and voted for revised English- and Spanish-language editions of the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults.

The bishops assigned a feast date to St. Teresa of Kolkata — Sept. 5, the death date in 1997 for the founder of

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to participate with young Catholics in a dialogue about issues of culture, FOR MORE STORIES ON THE U.S. BISHOPS racism and inclusion through the GENERAL ASSEMBLY VISIT ARCHGH.ORG/TCH. prism of faith.

“Perhaps it was the Holy Spirit’s the Missionaries of Charity. It will be an way of telling us bishops that we really optional memorial on the U.S. liturgical needed to take time to listen to young calendar. people, those who minister to them Their vote on the Eucharist statement and, especially, those who are in the came a day after their discussion of peripheries, feeling unimportant and the document — a discussion that was unloved, and often alienated from the markedly different than their debate Church,” Archbishop Pérez said Nov. 17. in June about what it could potentially He is chairman of the bishops’ Committee contain, namely a call for President on Cultural Diversity in the Church.

Joe Biden and Catholic politicians who He detailed the opportunity the support abortion to be denied coronavirus pandemic has Communion. But the final provided in facilitating virtual document had nothing like gatherings between young 2021 U.S. that and is addressed to all Catholics and bishops over BISHOPS Catholics in the U.S. the last year and a half. More GENERAL It “endeavors to explain than 60 bishops have joined ASSEMBLY the centrality of the Eucharist virtual gatherings as part of in the life of the Church,” said a process called “Journeying Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades Together,” he said. of Fort Wayne-South Bend, The gatherings have taken Indiana, chairman of the place online in the midst of bishops’ doctrine committee, in a short a pandemic, under “social unrest, racial presentation on the statement Nov. 16. reckoning, and the polarization affecting It “addresses the fundamental doctrine U.S. society,” he said. about the Eucharist that the Church The chairman of the U.S. bishops’ needs to retrieve and revive.”

Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Even bigger than the statement is the Life and Youth called on his fellow plan for the three-year eucharistic revival, bishops to work “in every way possible” ending with the National Eucharistic to implement the national pastoral Congress 2024 in Indianapolis. The framework for marriage and family bishops approved it 201-17, with five ministry that they approved in June. abstentions.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann The revival will officially start on the of Kansas City, Kansas, chairman of feast of Corpus Christi, June 16, 2022, the bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life with a diocesan focus that will include Activities, told his fellow bishops that eucharistic processions and other events the Secretariat for Pro-Life Activities’ of adoration and prayer around the “Walking with Moms in Need” initiative country. may have been slowed by the coronavirus In 2023, the emphasis will be on pandemic, but it has by no means stopped parishes and resources aimed at helping expectant mothers from any increasing Catholics’ understanding of walk of life. It was in March of 2020, just what the Eucharist really means. as the pandemic began to take hold.

Chairman of the bishops’ Committee This initiative “has the capacity to take on Evangelization and Catechesis, what is often seen as a partisan divide Auxiliary Bishop Andrew H. Cozzens and transform it into pastoral unity, of St. Paul and Minneapolis, said the bridging the divide between Catholics revival could be a time of healing for the who describe themselves using the entire Church, as well as a movement labels of ‘pro-life’ or ‘social justice,’” he of evangelization and a reawakening said. “The vision ... is that a pregnant or of understanding of the sacrament of parenting mother in need can turn to any the Eucharist for Catholics across the local Catholic parish and be connected country. with the life-affirming assistance and Philadelphia Archbishop Nelson accompaniment that she needs.”

J. Pérez invited fellow bishops to a The initiative’s website is national gathering in Chicago in June WalkingWithMoms.com. †

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DECEMBER 14, 2021 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

texas catholic herald

13

STATE

Former correctional ministries director honored at CNC event HOUSTON — Christian New Creation (CNC), founded as Catholic New Creation

by Father Ron Cloutier on April 3, 2002, began its 20th-anniversary celebrations honoring its founder in October at Isaiah House.

The CNC helps ex-offenders get started off on the right foot as they reenter society by supporting residents with a solid Christian community that enables their lives to be transformed through Christ — enabling residents to rediscover the love of God, reunite with families and simply to know that they are not forgotten.

Deacon Alvin Lovelady, director of the Office of Correctional Ministries at the Archdiocese, said the Isaiah House is part of two halfway houses that Father Cloutier and Deacon Darrell Moulton developed.

“The celebration and re-dedication and blessing was to actually celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Isaiah House (Catholic New Creation). It changed its name to Christian New Creations in 2020 to open the door to other opportunities

MILLARE, from page 11 Purgatory. According to Vatican II’s Dogmatic Constitution on the Church, Lumen gentium, the “pilgrim Church from the very first ages of the Christian religion has cultivated with great piety the more of the dead” and has also “offered suffrages for them” (§50). We should never cease to pray for our deceased loved ones.

Throughout the month of November, we pull out a box of prayer cards that we have collected over the years of deceased family members, friends, or co-workers, and as a family, we remember the dead in our prayers.

We do this because Pope Benedict XVI has exhorted the faithful to remember “the importance of prayers for the dead, especially offering of the Mass for them, so that once purified, they can come to the beatific vision of God” (Sacramentum Caritatis §32). The prayers, the Masses, or the acts of penance/charity that we offer up for the faithful departed may lead to the reception of the great gift that the Father in His mercy desires to bestow upon all his children: eternal life.

Purgatory is the antechamber of heaven. Colloquially, Purgatory is

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRISTIAN NEW CREATION

Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro hugs Father Ron Cloutier at the organization’s 20th anniversary event.

not available to it as it was formally,” he said.

Deacon Lovelady said the event

simply heaven’s front porch. The traditional imagery depicting Purgatory utilizes fire, which implies that Purgatory will involve pain. In St. Paul’s Letter to the Corinthians he reminds us that “the person will be saved, but only through fire” (1 Cor 3:15).

We can better understand the pain of Purgatory if we understand it in terms of love. When a person is separated from a beloved family member, a spouse, a sibling, or a close friend, they have undoubtedly experienced a temporary pain because of the separation. Or think of the pain when you receive a text informing you that your flight has been delayed again. The pain ceases when you are with your loved one or your plane finally reaches its destination — and typically, there is much rejoicing!

Throughout the month of November, take time with your family and friends to remember and pray for the dead at Mass and in your personal prayer. Above all, hope in Lord with persistent vigilant joy. † Roland Millare, STD, is an adjunct professor of Theology at the University of St. Thomas.

turned out very well, with many of the founding members there and even some of the early offenders who went

LUENSE, from page 11 seemingly forgotten this. Rather than spending the first part of this month getting ourselves ready for Christmas, some people have been celebrating Christmas since shortly after Halloween. Some of us had already put up our Christmas decorations before Thanksgiving.

Our anticipation is displaced as well by companies who misunderstand the traditional “12 days of Christmas” and have events that run from Dec. 13 to 24 rather than Dec. 25 to Jan. 5. I remember one year when I hosted a Christmas celebration at my home the evening of Dec. 25. I spent the afternoon preparing the house and meal while I listened to Christmas music play on a radio station. This station had been playing Christmas music non-stop for a month. Before the first guest arrived that very evening, the radio station ceased playing Christmas music and returned to regular programming.

Rather than rant against societal norms or feel forced to ignore what is

through the programs offered early in the development of the halfway houses.

“The return rate to prison for most who don’t stick with a program is about 45%. Some will say higher, but those who went through the Isaiah House program, which amounts to more than a 1,000 men, is less than 1%,” he said. “Halfway houses work if given the opportunity to and have enough support.”

At the event, CNC Executive Director Tony VanDerbur and the CNC board, led by Chairman Emeritus Ray Solcher, thanked the volunteers from the Kolbe Prison Ministries Group at St. Martha Catholic Church and Ken Wolf for making the event possible.

After the Isaiah House was blessed with holy water, residents Jesco Rodriguez and Kevin Ferguson shared their personal testimonies. Senior Deacon Harold Helm of the West Houston Seventh Day Adventist Church blessed the meal. Ray Solcher offered closing remarks, and Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro closed the event with prayer. †

around us, perhaps we can still make room to embrace the ancient wisdom of our Church to prepare ourselves with patient waiting.

We can choose some forms of waiting and increase our anticipation and longing so that the celebration of Christmas itself is fuller and more life-giving.

How often do we hear and read of people who find the “holiday season” exhausting and anxiety-producing?

How much does our inability to wait and prepare instead of being thrust headlong into an intensive celebration of six to eight weeks contribute?

Though there still may be Christmas parties to come before Christmas, let us challenge ourselves with what is left of this Advent, to pause, wait and prepare our minds and hearts, as well as our homes, just a little bit. Then, Dec. 25 might seem more like the celebration it is intended to be. † Brian Garcia-Luense is an associate director with the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis.

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MUNDO CATÓLICO Papa dice a migrantes que están en sus oraciones y su corazón CIUDAD DEL VATICANO (CNS) — El papa Francisco pidió a la multitud reunida en la Plaza de San Pedro que se uniera a él en un momento de oración en silencio por los migrantes, especialmente por los que se ahogaron recientemente en el

Canal de la Mancha y en el Mediterráneo y los que se están congelando en la frontera de Bielorrusia y Polonia. “¿Cuántos migrantes están expuestos, incluso en estos días, a peligros muy graves, y cuántos pierden la vida en

The Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston

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nuestras fronteras?” preguntó el papa el 28 de noviembre después de la oración del Ángelus del mediodía en el Vaticano.

Un día antes, el papa llamó al mar Mediterráneo “un gran cementerio” en un mensaje al pueblo de Chipre y Grecia, lugares que visitará del 2 al 6 de diciembre.

Un portavoz del gobierno chipriota dijo que después de la visita del papa, un grupo de solicitantes de asilo que actualmente se encuentran en Chipre se trasladará a Italia bajo el patrocinio del Vaticano.

“Este gesto simbólico demuestra la solidaridad del primado de la Iglesia Católica Romana con nuestros semejantes en necesidad”, dijo Marios Pelekanos, portavoz del gobierno. También confirma el apoyo del Vaticano al problema que enfrenta la República de Chipre hoy en día debido al aumento de los flujos migratorios, así como la necesidad de una distribución justa “de los migrantes y refugiados en los países de la Unión Europea para paliar el problema en los países de primera línea”.

La agencia de noticias Reuters citó a una fuente del Vaticano que dijo que el papa se ofreció a ayudar con el reasentamiento de 50 migrantes, aunque es poco probable que lleguen a Italia antes de Navidad debido al papeleo.

En su discurso del Ángelus, el papa dijo que era doloroso pensar en la situación de muchos migrantes y refugiados hoy, incluso a los que a la fuerza regresan al norte de África, donde fácilmente se convierten en presa de los traficantes, quienes “los transforman en esclavos, vendiendo mujeres, torturando a los hombres”.

La oración y la acción deben ser la respuesta, dijo, y agradeció a varias organizaciones benéficas católicas y otras dedicadas a ayudar a los migrantes y refugiados.

“Renuevo mi más sincero llamamiento a quienes pueden contribuir a resolver estos problemas, especialmente a las autoridades civiles y militares, para

que el entendimiento y el diálogo se impongan finalmente a cualquier tipo de instrumentalización y orienten sus voluntades y esfuerzos hacia soluciones que respeten la humanidad de estas personas”, dijo.

En el mensaje de video al pueblo de Chipre y Grecia el 27 de noviembre, el papa Francisco habló de sus tierras como las “fuentes” del cristianismo primitivo, de la fraternidad y de Europa con Chipre como “el puesto de avanzada de Tierra Santa en el continente” y Grecia como “el hogar de la cultura clásica”.

“Incluso hoy, Europa no puede ignorar el Mediterráneo, el mar que ha visto la difusión del Evangelio y el desarrollo de grandes civilizaciones”, dijo. “El mar, que abraza a muchos pueblos, con sus puertos abiertos nos recuerda que las fuentes de la convivencia están en la aceptación mutua”.

Mientras esperaba visitar a la población ortodoxa y católica en los dos países, el papa Francisco dijo que no puede olvidar “a aquellos que, en los últimos años y aún hoy, han estado huyendo de la guerra y la pobreza, desembarcando en las costas del continente y en otros lugares, y no encontrar hospitalidad, sino hostilidad e incluso explotación”.

“Son nuestros hermanos y hermanas”, dijo. “¡Cuántos han perdido la vida en el mar! Hoy nuestro mar, el Mediterráneo, es un gran cementerio”.

“Como peregrino a las fuentes de la humanidad”, el papa Francisco dijo que visitaría a los migrantes en la isla griega de Lesbos como lo hizo en 2016 para enfatizar que la convivencia pacífica solo es posible con “fraternidad e integración”.

Al reunirse el 27 de noviembre con los organizadores del Festival Giàvera, que muestra la música, la comida y las culturas de los migrantes que se han asentado en la diócesis de Treviso, en el norte de Italia, el papa Francisco los felicitó por asegurarse de que “la suya es una casa con muchas ventanas abiertas el mundo.” † FOTO DE CNS

Un bote inflable dañado apareció en Loon Beach en Dunkerque, Francia, el 25 de noviembre, el día después de que 27 migrantes murieron cuando su bote se desinfló mientras intentaban cruzar el Canal de la Mancha.

El papa Francisco pidió a la multitud en la Plaza de San Pedro que se uniera a él para un momento de oración en silencio por los migrantes.

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DECEMBER 14, 2021 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

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WITHIN THE ARTS IN BRIEF Missionary Childhood Association accepting submissions for art contest

CNS PHOTOS

Pope Francis talks with Jose Cardinal Calaca de Mendonca, Vatican archivist and librarian, as he inaugurates a new permanent exhibit space at the Vatican Library Nov. 5. The first exhibit, “Tutti. Humanity on the Way,” is based on maps in the library’s holdings and references the pope’s call for people to focus not on borders but on what makes them brothers and sisters.

HOUSTON — The Missionary Childhood Association opened its annual national Christmas Artwork Contest. The deadline for individual entries to the national office is Jan. 31, 2022.

Twenty-four winners will be selected as well as two grand-prize winners whose artwork will be the official National Christmas card of the Pontifical Mission Societies.

Contest winners will be notified in late spring 2022 and announced to Catholic media in fall 2022. All winners receive a commemorative plaque and will be celebrated at an event in December 2022.

There are three ways to enter: • Mail the entry to the Missions Office the downtown Chancery at 1700 San Jacinto St., Houston, TX 77002.

• Mail the entry to the National Office of The Missionary Childhood Association at 70 West 36th St., 8th Floor, New York, NY 10018 - Att: MCA Artwork Contest • Enter online at mcaartcontest.missio.org.

All entries submitted through the mail must be accompanied by a completed entry form.

The form should be attached to the artwork with tape or glue stick — no staples. The artwork cannot be returned.

Artwork that does not conform to the guidelines will be disqualified, and no vertical designs will be accepted.

For more information and the entry form, visit www.archgh.org/missions/. †

At Vatican Library exhibits, Pope calls for dialogue, openness VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The world needs new maps, guides for the human journey that are focused not on borders, but on what draws all people together and makes them brothers and sisters, Pope Francis said as he inaugurated a map-based exhibit in the Vatican Library.

“Humanity needs new maps to discover the meaning of fraternity, social friendship and the common good,” the pope said on Nov. 5 as he opened the library’s new permanent exhibition space and its first exhibit: “Tutti. Humanity on the Way.” Beginning with an almost 20-footlong map of the Nile by 17th-century Turkish Ottoman explorer Evliya Çelebi, the exhibit features some of the oldest and most unusual maps in the library’s collection interspersed with new pieces

by Pietro Ruffo, a contemporary artist from Rome.

“The dialogue between my work and the terrestrial and celestial maps of different epochs and cultures sketch a humanity that is increasingly interconnected and responsible for the fragile relationship with its ecosystem,” Ruffo said in a statement released by the Vatican Library.

Father Giacomo Cardinali, an official of the library who worked on the exhibit, said it involves a “nongeographical

cartography,”in that many of the maps are not just rudimentary — many were never meant to be geographically accurate.

“In the course of history, people used the representational scheme of the map not only to describe the Earth objectively” but also to map their own interior life, ideals and convictions.

Pope Francis praised the library for creating the exhibit space, which was possible thanks to support from the family of the late Kirk Kerkorian, a U.S. businessman and philanthropist.

“We must not neglect to think and speak of beauty, because the human heart does not need bread alone, it does not need only that which guarantees its immediate survival: It also needs culture, that which touches the soul, which brings the human being closer to his profound dignity,” the pope said.

The exhibit, he said, also reflects the fact that culture needs dialogue and encounter to grow.

“Cultures get sick when they become self-referential, when they lose curiosity and openness to the other. When they exclude instead of integrate,” the pope said. “What advantage do we have in making ourselves guardians of borders, instead of guardians of our brothers and sisters? The question God repeats to us is: ‘Where is your brother?’” †

MOVIE RATINGS By Catholic News Service A-I – GENERAL PATRONAGE • Ron’s Gone Wrong (PG)

A-II – ADULTS AND ADOLESCENTS • Clifford the Big Red Dog (PG)

A-III – ADULTS • • • •

Belfast (PG-13) Dune (PG-13) Eternals (PG-13) Ghostbusters: Afterlife (PG-13) • King Richard (PG-13) • West Side Story (PG-13)

• Encanto (PG) For additional Catholic movie reviews and more, visit www.catholicnews.com.

As we approach the joyous celebration of Christmas, we invite you to support the St. Dominic Village End of Year Campaign.

Our goal is to raise $50,000 for the new furniture and appliances needed for the spaces updated through Project Renovare in our Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, Independent, and Assisted Living areas.

Your donation will make an impactful change in our community.

Donate today by visiting www.stdominicvillage.org/eoy-campaign or call 713-391-2685.

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GALVESTON-HOUSTON LEGION OF MARY MARKS CENTENNIAL

PHOTO COURTESY OF CATHOLIC CHARITIES

PHOTO BY LYDIA COLEMAN

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston hosted its third Wine & Dine Dinner at The Revaire in Houston Nov. 13. The event, which benefits Catholic Charities’ numerous programs and services, raised nearly $500,000 and was co-chaired by Kelly and John Mooz, seen above with Cynthia N. Colbert, president and CEO of Catholic Charities. The gathering also honored the Scanlan Foundation for its support of the Catholic Charities’ mission. To learn more about Catholic Charities, visit catholiccharities.org.

Father Victor C. Perez, Houston Senatus spiritual director, meets with Junior Legion of Mary members from St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic Church of Houston. Daniel Cardinal DiNardo celebrated a special Mass to mark the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Legion of Mary.

Dominican Sister Raphael Bordages, OP, rings in 100th birthday HOUSTON — Sister Raphael Bordages, OP, celebrated her 100th birthday with her family and community on Nov. 20. Sister Bordages is the first Dominican Sister of Houston to reach a century in the congregation’s 139-year history.

One of 13 children, she grew up in Beaumont and attended St. Anthony Cathedral elementary and high school. She entered the convent in 1940 and has enjoyed 50 years of teaching young children in Catholic schools in Texas and California.

What she loves most about being a Dominican Sister is the spirit.

“We spread the Good News,” she said. “It is about becoming familiar SISTER RAPHAEL with God and seeing the joy of life. God is beauty. He has given us BORDAGES, OP wonderful gifts and loves us so much.” †

DEC. 14-16

PARISH MISSION, 6:30 to 7:45 p.m., St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception, (816 Park Dr., La Porte). Final three nights with Father Peter Schavitz, C.Ss.R., Redemptorist Missionary priest from St. Louis. Theme: Reigniting Our Faith. Refreshments follow. Babysitting and transportation provided. 281-471-2000.

DEC. 16

MASS AND LUNCHEON, 9 a.m., St. Mary Seminary– Borski Gym (9845 Memorial Dr., Houston).

Seafarer Mass Luncheon with Daniel Cardinal DiNardo: Registration at 9 a.m., 11 a.m. Mass, 12 p.m. lunch. Cost: $20/person. Register: https://bit.ly/ATA_SeafarersMass. More info: albahdz1965@gmail.com, 713-498-7136.

JAN. 2, 2022

ANNIVERSARY FIESTA, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Holy Name Passionist Retreat Center (430 Bunker Hill Rd., Houston). Family fiesta kicks-off 75th anniversary celebrations with food, games and family fun. Free.

HOUSTON — Members of the Legion of Mary gathered for a special Mass celebrated by Daniel Cardinal DiNardo on Sept. 11 to mark the group’s 100th anniversary since its founding in France 100 years ago by Servant of God Frank Duff.

The Mass of Thanksgiving was also concelebrated by Bishop Brendan J. Cahill of Victoria and Bishop David L. Toups of Beaumont. The Legion’s Mater Ecclesiae Senatus of Houston spiritual director, Father Victor Perez, who is pastor of St. Joseph and St. Stephen Catholic Churches in Houston, also concelebrated the special Mass. A reception followed at the Cathedral Centre.

In attendance were also Lydia Coleman, Houston Senatus president; Cheryl Duplechain, Houston Senatus treasurer; Sharon Reese, Houston Senatus past president Houston Senatus; Rochelle Hewitt, Houston Senatus secretary; and Charlene McQuitty, Houston Senatus past president. A number of youth from St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic Church’s Junior Legion of Mary also attended.

The Legion of Mary was founded in 1921 by Servant of God Duff, an Irish priest and a group of women in Dublin. The Legion of Mary is an apostolic organization at the service of the Church, under ecclesiastical guidance. Its twofold purpose is the spiritual development of its members and advancing the reign of Christ through Our Lady. In the Archdiocese, the Legion of Mary has 1,468 members and 150 praesidia, according to a 2019 survey.

To join the Legion of Mary, contact Houston Senatus President Lydia Coleman at 281-2171732 or at lydia_coleman@comcast.net. †

San José Clinic receives $200,000 Bank of America grant

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

Legion of Mary celebrates a century of Marian prayer, faith

JAN. 7-9, 2022

CATHOLIC MEN’S RETREAT, Holy Name Passionist Retreat Center (430 Bunker Hill Rd., Houston).

Men’s weekend retreat offers quiet time, prayer and sharing with other men. Register: 713-4640211 ext. 10; holynameretreatcenter.com.

JAN. 19, 2022

BABY SHOWER, 8:30 a.m., Mary Queen (606 Cedarwood Dr, Friendswood). The Bay Area Deanery Council of Catholic Women invite all women to join them for a baby shower to support the Pregnancy and Parenting Support Center of Galveston County. 8:30 a.m. Mass, 9:30 a.m. refreshments and raffle, 10 a.m. short business meeting followed by viewing of Roe v. Wade movie. Items suggested to donate: Similac Advance Infant Formula Powder in the blue can, diapers sizes 4 or 5, and baby wipes.

More info: Terry Kelley, 281-827-4232.

JAN. 21-23, 2022

CATHOLIC MEN’S RETREAT, Holy Name Passionist Retreat Center (430 Bunker Hill Rd., Houston).

Men’s weekend retreat offers quiet time, prayer and sharing with other men. Register: 713-4640211 ext. 10; holynameretreatcenter.com.

HOUSTON — San José Clinic (SJC) was recently named a 2021 Bank of America Neighborhood Builders award winner for its programs that help address basic healthcare needs that can grow and help even more people in Houston.

Alongside the Fifth Ward Community Redevelopment Corporation, SJC received a $200,000 grant, distributed over two years, and leadership training, joining a network of similar organizations. The program is the nation’s largest investment in nonprofit leadership development. This is the second time SJC has received the award.

“As we look toward celebrating our 100th anniversary in 2022, our vision is that we will continue to thrive and grow our impact as a leading safety-net healthcare provider regardless of the economic climate,” said Maureen Sanders, SJC president and CEO. “Houston has a critical need for our services; it is the city with the highest percentage of uninsured people in the nation.

This funding will support general operations to sustain and expand patient care, ensuring continuity of care to the over 3,000 patients we historically serve.”

Hong Ogle, Bank of America Houston’s president, said nonprofits continue to experience significant demands as communities recover.

“San José Clinic and Fifth Ward CRC are helping bridge important gaps for individuals and families to help them chart a path toward economic opportunity and stability,” Ogle said.

“Programs like Neighborhood Builders enable these organizations to grow sustainably and strategically for greater positive impact in the community.”

Since 2004, the highly competitive Bank of America Neighborhood Builders program has invested $7.2 million in 36 Houston nonprofits. SJC was founded in 1922 in order to provide quality healthcare and education to those with limited access to medical care. Visit www. sanjoseclinic.org to learn more. †

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