Texas Catholic Herald - Nov. 24, 2020

NOVEMBER 24, 2020 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

SPECIAL YOUTH SERVICES

TWO NEW LEADERS IN EDUCATION

Ministry continues to reach youth amid pandemic, hosts annual event ▪ SEE PAGE 8

Meet the two new directors at the Catholic Schools Office and their visions ▪ SEE PAGE 11

NOVEMBER 24, 2020

VATICAN

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

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VOL. 57, NO. 11

IN THANKSGIVING

Vatican releases McCarrick report Report “another step in the Church’s journey towards healing the painful wounds of abuse,” Cardinal DiNardo says VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Although dogged for years by rumors of sexual impropriety, Theodore E. McCarrick was able to rise up the Catholic hierarchical structure based on personal contacts, protestations of his innocence and a lack of Church officials reporting and investigating accusations, according to the Vatican report on the matter.

In choosing then-Archbishop Theodore E. McCarrick of Newark in 2000 to be archbishop of Washington and later a cardinal, St. John Paul II likely overlooked rumors and allegations about McCarrick’s sexual misconduct because of a long relationship with him, McCarrick’s own strong denial and the pope’s experience with communist authorities in Poland making accusations to discredit the Church, the report said.

Following the Nov. 10 release of the “Report on the Holy See’s Institutional See REPORT, page 2

USCCB

Bishops add COVID-19, anti-racism elements to four-year strategic plan WASHINGTON (CNS) — Although the U.S. bishops’ four-year strategic plan was adopted one year ago, it was not scheduled to go into effect until January 2021.

That gave the bishops a window to address two issues that have captured the world’s attention since last November: the coronavirus pandemic and racial inequality.

Addendums to the strategic plan were approved during the Nov. 16 to 17 U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) fall general meeting that Daniel Cardinal DiNardo and Auxiliary Bishop George A. Sheltz attended remotely, being conducted entirely online.

The 193-3 vote, with two abstentions, See ASSEMBLY, page 16

PHOTOS BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD

Parishioners pray during Mass on Oct. 30 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Kashmere Gardens. Daniel Cardinal DiNardo celebrated the Mass to honor the 70th anniversary of the parish’s founding in 1950.

‘Parish of praise’ marks 70 years of blessings in Kashmere Gardens

BY JAMES RAMOS Texas Catholic Herald

Daniel Cardinal DiNardo preaches the homily during a special Mass to honor the 70th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Houston. He encouraged the parish to always remember those who helped plant the parish’s roots.

THE FIRST WORD † 3

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EDUCATION † 11

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in his homily. The parish has experienced a myriad of life: “poverty and riches, floods HOUSTON — Under the and hurricanes and rebuilding, watchful gaze of a statue of suffering and sadness, but much St. Francis of Assisi, his iconic joy and celebration.” stigmatic hands outstretched To the parish’s predominantly before him, Daniel Cardinal African-American congregation, DiNardo celebrated Cardinal DiNardo with joy the 70th recognized the nation anniversary of the and local struggle BLACK founding of St. Francis with racism, noting CATHOLIC of Assisi Catholic the “confrontation Church on Oct. 30. constantly in this HISTORY Just a day shy of the city, and even in the MONTH start of November, Church, with racism.”

Black Catholic History And yet “beautiful” Month, the special effects of light “have Mass marked the end penetrated that of a year-long series of events darkness,” Cardinal DiNardo said. to honor the Kashmere Gardens Like St. Francis, who is known parish community’s founding by for his love of creation — loving Father John Cummings in 1950.

Sister Moon, Brother Sun — “this “God has blessed this See ST. FRANCIS, page 19 parish,” Cardinal DiNardo said

COLUMNISTS † 12 - 14

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Cardinal DiNardo: ‘Our work will never be complete until abuse is no more’ REPORT, from page 1

department,” Cardinal DiNardo said.

Knowledge and Decision-Making Related to Former Cardinal Theodore Edgar McCarrick,” Daniel Cardinal DiNardo said “today we join Pope Francis and the universal Church in confronting sexual abuse by members of the clergy, so that the sins and errors of the past will not continue into the future.”

In a Nov. ROOTING 10 statement, OUT EVIL Cardinal DiNardo said he was THE CHURCH’S distressed and RESPONSE saddened by the facts in the report and for those who were hurt by McCarrick.

“This report is another step in the Church’s journey towards healing the painful wounds of abuse,” Cardinal DiNardo said, also thanking Pope Francis “for the determined way” he has led the response.

“The message is clear: abuse will not be tolerated — no matter how prominent a perpetrator may be. To those who have been deeply hurt by abuse, let me add that your voices are being heard and are helping to inspire ongoing reforms that, since 2002, have made a genuine difference in rooting out the evil of abuse.

“The report shows that we must continue to be vigilant, as our work will never be complete until abuse is no more,” Cardinal DiNardo said.

Cardinal DiNardo reiterated the Archdiocese’s efforts to fight sexual abuse

by Church personnel and called for prayer for all victims of abuse and their families.

“Any instance of sexual abuse by Church personnel — a bishop, a priest, deacon, religious brother or sister, seminarian, or any employee or volunteer of the Church — should be reported immediately by contacting Child Protective Services (CPS) of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services and the local police

Report a 2-year investigation Rumors of McCarrick’s conduct, ​ especially knowledge that he had young adult men and seminarians sleep in the same bed with him when he was bishop of Metuchen, New Jersey, led the Vatican to decide it would be “imprudent” to promote him when looking for candidates to become archbishop of Chicago in 1997, New York in 1999-2000 and, initially, of Washington in July 2000, the report said.

The report’s release included an introduction describing the two-year investigation that led to the report’s compilation and gave an “executive summary” of its findings.

In June 2018, the Vatican suspended McCarrick from ministry after an investigation by the Archdiocese of New York found credible a charge that he sexually abused a teenager. McCarrick resigned from the College of Cardinals in July, and in February 2019, after a canonical process found McCarrick guilty of “solicitation in the Sacrament of confession and sins against the Sixth Commandment with minors and with adults, with the aggravating factor of the abuse of power,” Pope Francis dismissed him from the priesthood.

Sharp disputes of Archbishop Vigano’s accounts In August 2018, Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, former nuncio to the United States, called on Pope Francis to resign after claiming that he had informed Pope Francis of McCarrick’s abuse in 2013 and that top Vatican officials knew of McCarrick’s abusive behavior for years.

That claim led Pope Francis to initiate an investigation into how McCarrick was able to continue to rise through Church ranks despite the repeated rumors, anonymous letters, allegations and even settlements with alleged victims.

The report summary said, “No records support Vigano’s account” of his meeting with Pope Francis “and evidence as to

what he said is sharply disputed.”

Until the allegations about child sexual abuse were made to the Archdiocese of New York in 2017, “Francis had heard only that there had been allegations and rumors related to immoral conduct with adults occurring prior to McCarrick’s appointment to Washington,” it said.

“Believing that the allegations had already been reviewed and rejected by Pope John Paul II, and well aware that McCarrick was active during the papacy of Benedict XVI, Pope Francis did not see the need to alter the approach that had been adopted in prior years,” the summary said.

90-plus witness accounts The introduction to the report said it is based on documents found at the Vatican and the apostolic nunciature in the United States as well as interviews — “ranging in length from one to 30 hours” — with more than 90 witnesses in the United States, Italy and elsewhere. They included survivors, cardinals, bishops and former seminarians.

In a statement issued with the report, Pietro Cardinal Parolin, Vatican secretary of state, said the contributions of survivors were “fundamental.” The introduction of the report cautions survivors of abuse that certain sections “could prove traumatizing” and warns that some portions of the document are “inappropriate for minors.”

He also said that over the course of the two years it took to complete the investigation and compile the report, “we have taken significant steps forward to ensure greater attention to the protection of minors and more effective interventions to avoid” repeating errors of the past.

Among those steps, he highlighted “Vos Estis Lux Mundi” (“You are the Light of the World”), Pope Francis’ 2019 document on promoting bishops’ accountability and setting out procedures for handling See REPORT, page 16

THE ARCHDIOCESE OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON

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Issue date: December 22 Deadline: Noon on December 8

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We pray that the progress of robotics and artificial intelligence may always serve humankind.

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NOVEMBER 24, 2020 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

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THE FIRST WORD IN BRIEF

A PRAYER of THANKSGIVING

LORD,

we thank You for the GOODNESS of our people and for the spirit of JUSTICE that fills this nation.

We thank You for the BEAUTY and FULLNESS of the land and the CHALLENGE of the cities.

We thank You for our WORK and our REST, for one another and for our homes.

DSF annual appeal to support Archdiocesan ministries continues

HOUSTON — This year the theme of the annual Diocesan Services Fund (DSF) appeal is “Bring Your Greatest Gifts to The Lord.”

The annual campaign to support more than 60 Archdiocese-wide ministries is under way and the local Church is asking parishioners to continue their generous giving to DSF. The fund supports a variety of ministries, such as those forming youth in Catholic faith; providing support and preparation for clergy; teaching, evangelizing, worshipping, and outreach to the incarcerated, aging, poor and sick; and programming to strengthen Christian families, among many others.

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

To make a pledge online, visit www.archgh.org/dsf. For more, call 713-652-4417. †

Food distributions continue to offer help during pandemic

HOUSTON — Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston continues to serve people in need during the COVID-19 pandemic through all of its programs.

Food pantries are open for drive-through food distribution at three locations: Guadalupe Center in Houston, where appointments are required; Mamie George Community Center in Richmond; Beacon of Hope Center in Galveston. In Galveston, no appointment is required.

In Fort Bend County, The Mamie George Community Center is a super distribution site in coordination with the Houston Food Bank. Distribution is every other Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For hours and other information, call the Catholic Charities COVID Assistance Line at 713-874-6521. †

We thank You, Lord: accept our THANKSGIVING on this day.

We pray and give thanks through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

— From Catholic Household Blessings and Prayers

Find more prayers online at WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/SPIRITUALRESOURCES

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NOVEMBER 24, 2020

LIVING A LIFE OF GRATITUDE

Gratitude yields joy and love and gives life. ▪ PAGE 12

Leaders urge caution, courage and prayer as holidays draw near

BY JAMES RAMOS Texas Catholic Herald HOUSTON — As COVID-19 cases continued to surge across the nation and in Texas, community leaders urged Texans to remain vigilant during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo said the mid-November trends in Harris County and Texas were “headed in a very troubling direction” at a Nov. 17 press conference. Texas was the first state to record 1 million cases of COVID-19.

“As a community, we’ve been beat up and bruised. We’ve grown tired, and we’re hungry to get back to normal. It’s human nature to get complacent, to want to give in, to be tired. That’s normal. But we can’t do that right now,” she said.

Judge Hidalgo said the region had a narrow window to change the trends and avoid the numbers Texas saw in the summer.

In early November, El Paso began to see surging numbers that pushed overflowing hospitals to move to expanded bed capacities in civic facilities and send some patients to other cities in Texas. The city morgue struggled

VIRTUAL GATHERING TIPS

IN BRIEF Catholic Charities calls for gifts in ‘Share Your Blessings’ drive

HOUSTON — Thousands of children and seniors across the Archdiocese who live in poverty will have a gift to unwrap this holiday season, thanks to generous parishioners who gave to the “Share Your Blessings” Christmas gift campaign sponsored by Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston.

The annual drive provides gifts to families served through Catholic Charities programs, in addition to families from throughout the community. Up to 2,800 children and seniors will be helped this Christmas.

“We’re grateful to the many parishes who hold toy drives each year to help people in need. We can’t do this campaign without them,” said Catholic Charities President Cynthia N. Colbert. “Their contributions are even more appreciated this year when so many families face financial hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Toys and gifts can be purchased from a wishlist found online at www.catholiccharities. org/SYV or dropped off in-person at the Catholic Charities’ main office at 2900 Louisiana in Houston. Parishes contributing include the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart; Holy Rosary in Houston; Sacred Heart in Richmond; St. Anthony of Padua in The Woodlands; St. Bartholomew in Katy; St. Faustina in Fulshear; St. Maximilian Kolbe; St. Theresa in Houston; and St. Vincent de Paul. † to handle the increase in deaths and brought in at least 10 mobile morgues to assist with capacity.

By Nov. 18, El Paso County, with its population of 840,000, had more confirmed active cases (34,487) than neighboring Mexico (23,284), a country of 129 million, reports said.

ALL HANDS ON DECK Judge Hidalgo urged families to delay large family gatherings, even with the upcoming holidays.

“We need all hands on deck,” Judge Hidalgo said. “This is in your hands, and all of us need to do more.”

She also encouraged testing to create a greater awareness of the virus’s spread.

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several more parishes, like Prince of Peace and Holy Ghost Catholic Churches in Houston, had partnered with Harris County Public Health and Houston Health to host free COVID-19 testing in Harris County. Parishes included.

While the world waited for a vaccine, another victim of the pandemic was Houston’s annual Thanksgiving Day parade, which Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner canceled for the first time in 71 years. Instead, the city was set to host a Thanksgiving food drive on Nov. 21.

COUNTY HEALTH LEADERS URGE CAUTION, VIGILANCE The Harris County Public Health Department shared several tips on how to celebrate the holidays safely.

Guidelines remain as parishes continue at 50% capacity

HOUSTON - After reopening parishes following the state-mandated closure, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo continued the second step in the phased reopening of parishes in the Archdiocese. Parishes were permitted to expand to 50% capacity provided they, and parishioners, observe health guidelines set by the State of Texas when attending Mass.

These include at least the following:

Wash hands often and for 20 seconds

Keep a safe social distance and avoid gathering after Masses

Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or sleeve

Cover mouth and nose with a mask or cover when around others Avoid close contact; Share a ‘Sign of Peace’ from a distance Stay at home if feeling sick

For more information, visit www.archgh.org/healthupdates

HOSTING YOUR OWN ONLINE GATHERING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON? SEE PAGE 14 FOR MORE Lower risk activities included: having a small dinner with only people from the same household or social group; preparing traditional dishes for families and neighbors who are at higher risk and delivering the food in a contactless manner; celebrating with a virtual dinner while cooking and sharing recipes; shopping online from home rather than in-person for Black Friday or gift shopping for Christmas; and watching sports and holiday events, religious services and movies from home.

Moderate risk events with an emphasis on maintaining social and physical distance included: hosting a small outdoor dinner with family and friends from the nearby community; visiting outdoor activities and locations where hand sanitation and mask usage is encouraged or enforced; and attending small outdoor events with safety precautions in place.

County health leaders urged the public to help prevent the spread of the virus by avoiding: shopping in crowded stores or visiting crowded events like parades or gatherings; heavy use of mood-altering substances that can cloud judgment and increase risky behaviors; and attending large indoor gatherings with people from outside the household or social group.

TAKE GOSPEL TO TROUBLED PEOPLE DURING PANDEMIC CLEVELAND (CNS) — Admitting that people’s faith in God “has been shaken” by the pandemic and related economic turmoil, Los Angeles Archbishop José H. Gomez called on his fellow bishops to take the news of the resurrection and the triumph of life over death directly to people to help them navigate the crisis.

“At the heart of their fears are fundamental questions about divine providence and the goodness of God,” Archbishop Gomez, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, said Nov. 16 during the bishops’ annual fall general assembly.

“This is far more than a public health emergency,” he said. “Everywhere we see spreading the fear of illness and death.”

The archbishop said the pandemic illustrates that the core message of the Gospel — Christ’s love for every person, the power of the cross and the promise of the resurrection — “is fading from our neighbors’ hearts.”

“Brothers, in this time of death, we hold the Word of Life. We come in the name of the God whose love is stronger than death,” he said.

The times with their social unrest and uncertainty caused by the pandemic, “call for heroic Christianity,” he explained. He noted how the newly beatified Blessed Michael McGivney died during the 1890 flu pandemic in which over 1 million people lost their lives worldwide. He said the likely future saint can be “a model and intercessor for our own ministries.” †

NOVEMBER 24, 2020 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

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Faithful citizenship sparks nonpartisan voter rallies at Houston parishes

BY JO ANN ZUNIGA Texas Catholic Herald HOUSTON — While 2020 will be seared in many memories because of the pandemic, parishioner Bettys Arenas de Ruiz of All Saints Catholic Church in the Heights will remember becoming a U.S. citizen this year, voting for the first time in the Nov. 3 presidential election.

She also helped the church form a phone bank to recruit parishioners to call “low-propensity voters,” urging them to vote to make their voices heard no matter which candidate they chose.

The phone bank called more than 1,000 people to offer encouragement, answer any questions about polling places and even offered transportation referrals if needed.

“I was so happy after I voted! But now I’m sad that the results are still being fought over,” she said.

Arenas de Ruiz, formerly of Venezuela, had been among parishioners in Harris County, Fort Bend and Brazoria counties who took the three-day leadership training offered by The Metropolitan Organization (TMO), a nonprofit grassroots group. In mid-summer, more than 1,250 TMO leaders from 30 churches and other institutions convened on Zoom and Facebook watch parties for a virtual “Get out the Vote Rally” and made

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ST. LEO THE GREAT CATHOLIC CHURCH

St. Leo the Great Catholic Church parishioners organized voter caravans to encourage faithful citizenship and voting in the community. After driving through the neighborhoods with signs, they supported voting to make sure local citizens made their voices heard.

thousands of phone calls to 16 Harris County precincts that traditionally had low voter turnout.

At St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, parishioners after Masses in October formed car caravans through nearby neighborhoods, said St. Leo’s Social Services Director Sorina Serrano.

“They wore masks and gloves and held up signs to motivate people to vote for whomever they supported,” Serrano said.

The caravans then drove to an early voting polling place and cast their ballots at the Baker Ripley community center in Aldine.

“Our whole point was to provide faithful citizenship,” she said. “First-time voters were nervous, but they asked good questions like ‘what type of identification do I need to take to the polls?’”

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has offered a teaching document on the political responsibilities of Catholics called “Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship.” The document urges all pastors, lay and religious faithful and all people of good will “to help form consciences, teach those entrusted to their care; to contribute to civil and respectful public dialogue and to shape politics.”

Father Rodney Armstrong of Our Mother of Mercy Catholic Church in Fifth Ward and his parishioners set up a voter registration table at a nearby McDonald’s fast-food restaurant with owner approval. The pastor also made a video that TMO placed on its Facebook to encourage voters.

Dr. Fernando Scaglia, a parishioner at Assumption Catholic Church off Airline Drive, said he participated in the church’s phone bank as well despite his busy schedule as a researcher and professor of genetics at Baylor College of Medicine.

“I believe in social justice, which is one of the tenets of the Catholic Church,” Scaglia said. “Although I live and work in the Texas Medical Center area, I belong to Assumption Church, and a lot of people in need go there.”

He also participated in “Virtual Accountability Sessions,” where TMO invited candidates from Democratic and Republican parties to discuss how they stood on a variety of issues.

“There are so many important issues that impact all of us — health and the pandemic; economic issues like evictions and even the DACA issue for dreamers,” Dr. Scaglia said.

He concluded, “Leadership training is an important teaching on how to work together even if others think differently than us.” †

“We don’t know what the future holds, but it’s all God’s work,” says Sister Theresa McGrath (center), 86, a member of the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, San Antonio. In good times and bad, she and the religious shown here have devoted themselves to God’s work. They are among nearly 30,000 senior sisters, brothers, and religious order priests who benefit from the Retirement Fund for Religious. Your gift helps provide medications, nursing care, and more.

Please be generous.

Retirement Fund for Religious

Please donate at your local parish December 12–13 or by mail at:

National Religious Retirement Office/GAL 3211 Fourth Street NE Washington DC 20017-1194 Make check payable to Retirement Fund for Religious.

retiredreligious.org

Please give to those who have given a lifetime.

Above, from left: Sister Alice Garcia, SSCJ, 91; Brother Martin Gonzales, OCSO, 95; Sister Theresa McGrath, CCVI, 86; Sister Anne Cecile Muldoon, OSU, 93; Abbot Emeritus Peter Eberle, OSB, 79. ©2020 United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington DC • All rights reserved • Photo: Jim Judkis

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‘Proclaim’ conference 2020 now available online Stream 35 keynotes and workshops by national, local speakers online

Organizers also chose to keep the five keynote speakers live, where participants could view them during designated times on Friday or Saturday. Participants used online links to listen and ask questions.

More than 40 conference workshops were pre-recorded.

“This required identifying a platform

BY ELESKA AUBESPIN that we could host the conference Texas Catholic Herald through, video editing of all the workshops and identifying HOUSTON — Despite the individuals with the knowledge challenges of COVID-19 and and skill to produce the event,” new technology, this year’s Colbert said.“We were committed Proclaim 2020 conference to serving the dedicated ministry was a virtual success for the leaders and volunteers of the Archdiocese.

Archdiocese. So simply put: We Proclaim organizers began dug in, learned new skills and adjusting the Nov. 13 to made it happen.”

14-weekend conference after Those who registered have the global pandemic hit in 90 days to continue to view the LEISA March. This year’s two-day videos. Those interested who ANSLINGER conference, open to anyone haven’t registered can still do so ministering in the Church of Galveston- at www.archgh.org/proclaim. There are Houston, including clergy, lay leaders, keynotes available in English, Spanish teachers and ministry volunteers, had to and Vietnamese. be different. That was decided by May. This year’s theme came from Mark “When it became clear that we would 10:49 when the disciples told the blind not be able to host this gathering in person, beggar Bartimaeus to take courage I surveyed parish leadership to discern because Christ is calling him. Within what we should do,” said Timothy Colbert, the theme, two more specific lenses of director of the Office of Adolescent courageous leadership and witness are Catechesis and Evangelization for the highlighted.

Archdiocese.

“I was amazed at how well all the “Should we postpone until spring, various speakers wove the story into their postpone until next November, or go presentations,” said Angie Pometto,Young virtual,” Colbert said. “The consensus was Adult and Campus Ministry associate to go virtual.” director, a conference organizer charged

WANT TO WATCH? WATCH THE PROCLAIM CONFERENCE AND ALL THE TALKS ONLINE AT WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/PROCLAIM

with promotion and social media.

One of those speakers was Leisa Anslinger, director of the Center for Pastoral Vitality for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati and founder of Catholic Life and Faith.

“Leadership takes all sorts of forms,” Anslinger explains in her video.

“As I studied leadership and observed people who I know to be effective leaders, not all are what we might initially have in mind when we think of courageous leadership,” she said. “Not all are selfassured, strong people who appear to have all the answers. In fact, more of the people that I think of as courageous leaders are ones who live their lives in a way that leads others to follow.”

International Catholic speaker Katie Prejean McGrady spoke about “Courageous Witness,” saying it is vital to build and continue to nurture relationships with Catholic youth.

“The work that we do in youth and young adult ministry is not about just introducing concepts and ideas…” she said. “We are in the business of growing in relationship with young people so they can grow in relationship with Jesus Christ.”

Besides Anslinger and McGrady, speakers in the English sessions include Jennifer Carr Allmon, executive director of the Texas Catholic Conference of

Bishops; Charleen Katra, executive director of the National Catholic Partnership on Disability; and Julie Dienno-Demarest, a spiritual director, author, and educator for adolescents and adults.

In the Spanish sessions, speakers include Sister Norma Pimentel, MCJ, a Mexican-American nun of the Missionaries of Jesus and the executive director of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley; Miriam G. Hidalgo, a Catholic writer and speaker; and Peter J. Ductrám, Archdiocesan director of the Academy for the Lay Ecclesial Ministry for the Archdiocese of San Antonio.

In the Vietnamese sessions, speakers include Father Nghi Van Dinh, OP, superior at St. Adam’s Monastery in Houston; Sister Loan Anh, who has served in parishes and schools in Texas; and Father Binh The Quach, C.S.Sp, director of the Donald Nesti Center for Faith and Culture at the University of St. Thomas.

Ultimately, the virtual event was a success and organizers received positive feedback about speakers and workshops. Program goals — to become a living witness to the faith, envision a transformational ministry with new tools to effectively minister, and minister from a Spirituality of Communion — were met.

Proclaim, held every two years, is next scheduled for Nov. 11 to 12 in 2022. Organizers expect an in-person experience rather than virtual if COVID-19 health risks decrease.

“This pandemic has been horrible but a blessing is that use of these new technology tools and formation are so much more accessible,” Colbert said. “It can never replace in-person training, but it has opened up the door to people who couldn’t get a babysitter, get off early from work or get through traffic jams in order to participate. Now, they can get it online.” †

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KEEPING HOLY THE SABBATH EVEN AT HOME The Archdiocese continues to offer an online hub of SPIRITUAL RESOURCES with links to digital guides on keeping the faith while at home including: • Links to Spiritual Reflections videos presented by priests in English, Spanish and Vietnamese • Links to Daily Readings, online prayer guides and links to Pope Francis’s prayers and Liturgies • Special prayers for the pandemic

WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/SPIRITUALRESOURCES

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

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

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NOVEMBER 24, 2020

Bringing the faith, hope and love of Christ to youth in detention centers despite pandemic

BY KERRY MCGUIRE Herald Correspondent HOUSTON — The engagement between youth living in detention centers and those who minister to them requires creating a new kind of space to bring the faith, hope and love found in Christ to His children during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Becoming understanding and amenable to change and adaptability is key.

The at-risk youth and juvenile probation ministry responsible for modeling the embrace of Christ’s pastoral care, advocacy and faith sharing to an average of 3,000 youth annually in the Archdiocese is Special Youth Services (SYS). According to Franchelle Lee, director of SYS, strict mandates due to COVID-19 have tested the ability of staff and volunteers to minister to the detained youth to the fullest.

Lee said SYS’s pastoral ministers are considered essential personnel since they are the only religious services available to the youth at this time. She said safety precautions and guidelines are subject to change at any moment. Currently, SYS volunteers are still not allowed access,

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SPECIAL YOUTH SERVICES MINISTRY

Volunteers and staff from the Special Youth Services Ministry used Zoom to host their annual “Saintly Saturday” event.

and many of the youth have not seen their families for some time.

According to Lee, the biggest challenge and blessing for SYS is connecting with the youth, volunteers and the Catholic community.

Pre-pandemic, SYS staff and volunteers visited youth daily, and many

volunteer events were held throughout the year, including in-services, retreats and socials. There also were presentation invitations to Catholic organizations, local parishes and Catholic schools.

“All of these programs were affected by the inability to meet in person, allowing SYS to utilize virtual communication, such as Zoom meetings, that were the catalysts for the weekly newsletters, better volunteer engagement and the apparatus for serving our little brothers and sisters,” said Lee. “These advancements and adjustments are only made possible by

Special Youth Services is supported by the Diocesan Services Fund. The 2020 DSF theme draws from an important meaning of the Catholic faith: “Bring Your Greatest Gift to the Lord.”

DSF operates in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston each year to help the Church carry out the ministries of teaching and sanctifying. Of the 60-plus programs under its umbrella, DSF brings the needed financial resources to carry out these ministries. the commitment of our volunteers and support from the Harris County Juvenile Probation Department. SYS staff has been placed with greater demand in response to services, but it is with great honor that we are called to serve His children.”

Deacon Fernando Garcia, pastoral minister with SYS, said the pandemic restrictions have challenged staff and volunteers to create new ways to provide ministry to youth while keeping engaged

SPECIAL YOUTH SERVICES: SAINTLY SATURDAY HOUSTON — Saintly Saturday, one of the DSF-funded programs of the Special Youth Services Ministry, was held on Nov. 7 online due to the pandemic.

Implemented in 2004, the same year Daniel Cardinal DiNardo became coadjutor bishop of the Archdiocese, it is an annual event held at the Harris County Leadership Academy.

The day provides an opportunity for youth to encounter Christ in new and exciting ways. With an ongoing theme of “From Sinner to Saint,” the programming includes, but is not limited to, fellowship, praise and worship, singing, contests, skits, spiritual discussions, and religious games.

This is accomplished by a dynamic guest speaker and several generous volunteers.

The event also provides an opportunity to participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation before sharing in the celebration of Mass with Cardinal DiNardo.

This year’s event looked quite different.

Zoom provided the perfect conduit to make the event successful.

Because of COVID-19 restrictions, the program was offered virtually. “We were blessed with the opportunity to provide the event to two facilities and serving twice as many youths,” Special Youth Services Director Franchelle Lee said. “An additional blessing was the benefit of two speakers, Father Agustino Torres, C.F.R. (Corazon Puro), and Cesar Lozano (SYS volunteer).”

Lee said that although volunteers could not attend in person, they joined the celebration, letting the kids see them and cheer for them.

“After joining us for the opening prayer, they were able to view the event just as the kids did while praying for them and their

“You continue to come into the facilities to encourage our youth and sprinkle a little Jesus throughout!”

FRANCHELLE LEE

DIRECTOR, SPECIAL YOUTH SERVICES

day,” she said.

Lee said the day was a success, and the youth truly enjoyed it. This was best expressed in an appreciation email from Rosalind Carter, facility administrator of Harris County Leadership Academy and Burnett-Bayland Rehabilitation Center.

“We would like to personally thank everyone for the support during this past Saintly Saturday,” she said.

“Due to COVID-19, we were unable to have the kids participate in person, but that did not stop them from enjoying the program. You all made adjustments and were able to allow everyone to participate via Zoom with no major issues. A special thanks to the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston and everyone that showed up to the facility.

“Thank you for the snacks and the letters that were given to the kids during the program. We cannot express the gratitude we feel for you all. You continue to come into the facilities to encourage our youth and sprinkle a little Jesus throughout! The pandemic has not stopped you all and we truly cannot thank you enough for the support, generosity, grace and kindness.” †

NOVEMBER 24, 2020 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

with each other remotely.

“In the same manner that we strive to minister a sense of belonging and value to the youth, we also accompany our volunteers as they offer themselves in service,” said Deacon Garcia. “This is a direct response to the fulfillment of their call to ministry as we strive to provide a place for belonging, relevance and relationship, which is most needed in today’s climate.”

One of 60 ministries supported by the Diocesan Services Fund (DSF), SYS offers programs and services in local juvenile justice centers and facilities in three counties (Harris, Fort Bend and Brazoria) as well as the Gulf Coast Trade Center in Montgomery County. The ages of those served range between 10 to 17 years old, but services are provided beyond based on need.

According to Deacon Garcia, SYS staff and volunteers have a passion for ministry and, more importantly, a passion for serving these marginalized youth in the Archdiocese. He believes these youth directly benefit from the DSF because the ministry’s staff and volunteers are able to provide restorative assistance and programming to the many youth and families served.

“Shunned by society and at times even from their own family, SYS provides a daily reminder to these youth that they are not alone and are loved as God’s children,” said Deacon Garcia.“To support SYS through the DSF not only supports our forgotten youth but also serves as a reminder to those who have forgotten their call to reach out to the lost.”

Associate director of SYS, Alejandra

texas catholic herald

Maya, also believes the DSF allows SYS’s staff and volunteers to provide much-needed programs and services unavailable elsewhere in the Archdiocese.

“Our ministry has a small staff, but we work very hard to do as much as we can for our youth,” said Maya. “We appreciate every single one of our volunteers and the time, treasures and talents they share with this ministry. Although our volunteers have not been able to visit the youth since the beginning of the pandemic, they continue to stay active by virtually meeting with other volunteers and their coordinator, composing weekly newsletters that are sent to the youth and participating in SYS online events.”

One dedicated volunteer, Jim Pritchett, has been with SYS for three years as a Bible study leader, as well as a “Good Samaritan” — a volunteer that commits to visiting a young person for the entire duration of his or her detainment. Lee said this means a great deal to the youth because when no one comes to visit, this can be especially difficult for them.

Pritchett said volunteering with SYS has given him the opportunity to give back to those in need and exercise his Catholic faith.

“In getting to know the youth, I’ve learned a lot about people that come from totally different backgrounds than me, which I welcome and appreciate,” said Pritchett. “Not only because of the difficulties that they have had, but also their capabilities and strengths. They’re not forgotten — if they have hope, they can apply it to make fundamental changes in their life, which I think that’s kind of what we do at SYS.” †

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Will you help families in crisis this Christmas?

The COVID-19 pandemic has hit vulnerable families the hardest. You can give these families the help they need to avoid hunger and homelessness by supporting Catholic Charities. Your gift will provide them with food, emergency financial assistance and give us the flexibility to meet whatever needs arise from this crisis. Please give today.

Make a gift online today at

CatholicCharities.org/donate 2900 Louisiana Street • Houston, Texas 77006

Find a series of spiritual reflection videos on Scriptures of the day to help us stand firm in faith and hope hosted by priests. Find the videos at www.archgh.org/messagesofhope, and on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Audio of the reflections are also available on our podcast channel via your favorite podcast app.

3825 Pinemont Dr., Houston, TX 77018 Phone: 713-680-3530 www.camposrooong.com

9

10 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

NOVEMBER 24, 2020

IN MEMORIA Pray for the following priests whose anniversaries of death are during the month of December.

W H AT W I L L IN A

YO U

C AT H O L I C SCHOOL?

 Rigorous curriculum  A welcoming & inclusive experience  STEM Programs, Fine & Performing Arts, Athletics & Extra Curricular Activities

Dec. 1, 1940 Dec. 1, 2014 Dec. 1, 1973 Dec. 1, 1987 Dec. 1, 1989 Dec. 1, 2002 Dec. 1, 2007 Dec. 2, 1997 Dec. 2, 2000 Dec. 2, 2005 Dec. 3, 1900 Dec. 3, 1911 Dec. 3, 1947 Dec. 3, 1962 Dec. 3, 1963 Dec. 3, 1987 Dec. 3, 1995 Dec. 4, 2008 Dec. 5, 1981 Dec. 5, 1998 Dec. 6, 1988 Dec. 6, 2001 Dec. 7, 1880 Dec. 7, 1995 Dec. 8, 1986 Dec. 9, 1943 Dec. 10, 1915 Dec. 10, 1969 Dec. 11, 1909

Rev. Paul F. Nemec Rev. Bernard Mahoney Rev. William Duggan, CSB Msgr. Thomas F. O’Sullivan Msgr. Christopher J. Martin Rev. G. Patrick Dougherty Rev. Albert Walsh Rev. Bernard Doyon, OMI Rev. Doug Smith Rev. John C. Wick, CSB Rev. Peter Berthet Rev. A. Badelon Rev. Douglas A. Moore Rev. George T. Koen Rev. Charles V. Palazzo Rev. John F. McMahon Msgr. Andrew Deslatte Rev. John T. Weyer Rev. Gilbert Kroger, CP Rev. Francis X. Chang-Lei, SJ Rev. James A. Matzinger Rev. Mark Horacek Rev. Louis Chambodut Rev. William Bosworth Msgr. James F. Welsch Rev. Michael Munar, TOR Rev. John M. Haughran Rev. John W. Meyer, CSB Rev. Joseph Legardeur

Dec. 11, 1914 Dec. 11, 1940 Dec. 12, 1927 Dec. 12, 1989 Dec. 12, 2010 Dec. 13, 2002 Dec. 13, 2016 Dec. 19, 1909 Dec. 19, 2009 Dec. 20, 1940 Dec. 21, 1992 Dec. 23, 1871 Dec. 24, 2010 Dec. 25, 1918 Dec. 25, 2016 Dec. 26, 1998 Dec. 26, 2012 Dec. 26, 2017 Dec. 27, 1942 Dec. 28, 1953 Dec. 28, 1991 Dec. 29, 1994 Dec. 30, 1924 Dec. 30, 1934 Dec. 30. 1942 Dec. 30, 1952 Dec. 31, 1870 Dec. 31, 1926

Rev. George Montreuil Msgr. Joseph Pelnar Rev. Peter Litwora Rev. Benigno Gonzalez-Diez Msgr. Francis G. Wearden Rev. Philip R. Elmer, SCJ Rev. Charles Borski, OMI Rev. R. Drohan, CSB Rev. John F. Robbins, CSB Rev. Theodore Drees Msgr. Marcel Notzon Rev. Peter Lacour Msgr. Ralph C. Salazar Rev. J.C. Magnan, OMI Rev. George Hosko, CSB Msgr. Thomas A. Wendland Rev. Eduardo Lopez Rev. Mario Baldero, DS Rev. Kaspar Kaler Rev. John P. Campbell Rev. Emil Furlong Msgr. Bernard J. Roemer Rev. M.J. O’Callahan Rev. Thomas C. Healy Rev. John Leahy Rev. Paul Michalka Rev. Andres Farges Rev. Francis Pridal

 An education that inspires & empowers

HOLIDAY TRAVEL HOLIDAY TRAVEL Stay Safe Stay Safe HOLIDAY TRAVEL Stay Safe

Travel increases the chance of getting and spreading COVID-19. Staying home is safest, but if you must travel, be aware of the risks involved. Airports, bus stations, train stations, and rest stops are Travel increases the chancecan of getting spreading COVID-19.

Stayingchallenges home is safest, but if you all places where COVID-19 spread.and Each type of travel has different and potentially mustTravel travel, berisk aware of the risks involved. stations, train stations, rest increases the chance oftogetting andAirports, spreading COVID-19. home is and safest, butstops ifsure youare changes your and exposure COVID-19.

Beforebus traveling orStaying staying overnight, make you all places where COVID-19 canrisks spread.

Each type by ofbus travel has different challenges potentially must be aware of the involved.

Airports, train stations, and restand stops are check the travel, COVID-19 prevention practices required thestations, facility. changes your where risk and exposure tospread.

COVID-19. traveling or staying overnight, sure you all places COVID-19 can Each Before type of travel has different challenges andmake potentially your risk prevention and exposure to COVID-19.

Before traveling or staying overnight, make sure you checkchanges the COVID-19 practices required by the facility.

BEFORE you travel: check the COVID-19 prevention practices required by the facility.

• Is COVID-19 spreading at your destination?

BEFORE you • Do you live withtravel: someone who may have an increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19?

BEFORE you travel: Is COVID-19 spreading your destination?

•• Are you at increased riskatfor severe illness from COVID-19?

Is COVID-19 spreading at your destination?

Do •you livedestination with someone who may have an restrictions increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19?

•• Does your have requirements forfor travelers?

• Do you live with someone who may haveor an increased risk severe illness from COVID-19?

• Are• you at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19?

Are you at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19?

• Does your destination have requirements or restrictions for travelers?

• Does your destination have requirements or restrictions for travelers?

DO NOT travel if you are sick or if you have been around someone with COVID-19 in the past 14 days.

NOT travel if you areare sick orto ifprotect you been around someone with DO NOT travel if you sick or if youhave have beenand around someone with IfDO you decide to travel, take steps yourself others from COVID-19: COVID-19 inmask the past 14 14 days. in the past days.

• COVID-19 Wear a keeping your nose and mouth covered when in public settings If you to travel, take steps to to protect others from COVID-19: Ifdecide you decide to travel, take steps protectyourself and others from COVID-19: • Avoid close contact by staying at least 6yourself feet (2 and meters) apart (about two arms’ length) from • Wear a mask keeping your noseand andmouth mouthcovered covered when • Wear a mask keeping your nose whenininpublic publicsettings settings anyone who is not from your household • Avoid close contact by staying atleast least66feet feet(2 (2 meters) meters) apart (about two arms’ length) fromfrom •• Wash Avoid close contact by staying at apart (about two arms’ length) your hands or use hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol) anyone isoften not from your household anyone whowho isyour not from your household • Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth • Wash hands often use handsanitizer sanitizer (with (with at at least • Wash youryour hands often or or use hand least60% 60%alcohol) alcohol) • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth

Lower Risk • Lower Short tripsRisk by car with few stops along the way Lower Risk • Short by with car with few stops the way • A house ortrips cabin people from along your household (e.g., vacation rentals)

• Short with few stopsfrom along the way • A trips housebyorcar cabin with people your household (e.g., vacation rentals) • A house or cabin with people from your household (e.g., vacation rentals)

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK is November 8-14 Visit ChooseCatholicSchools.org For More Information.

Moderate Risk • Moderate Trips by car or Risk RV with people who are not in your household • Trips by car or RV with people who are not in your household Moderate • Longer tripsRisk by car or RV with one or more stops along the way

• Longer by with car orpeople RV withwho oneare or more the way Trips by cartrips or train RV not instops youralong household •• Long-distance or bus trips • Long-distance or bus •• Direct flights Longer trips by cartrain or RV withtrips one or more stops along the way • Direct flightstrain or bus trips • Long-distance • Direct flights

Higher Risk Higher Risk • Flights layovers • Flights withwith layovers Higher Risk • Traveling a cruise ship riverboat • Traveling on aoncruise ship or or riverboat

Flights with • Hotels orlayovers multi-unit guest lodgings(e.g., (e.g.,bed bedand and breakfasts) breakfasts) •• Hotels or multi-unit guest lodgings Traveling aacruise ship or riverboat • Staying family member’s friend’shome home •• Staying aton a at family member’s oror friend’s • A house or cabinguest people that(e.g., are not your household Hotels orormulti-unit lodgings and household breakfasts) •• A house cabin withwith people that are notbed ininyour • Shared with many people and shared bathroom facilities (e.g., dormitory-style hostels) Staying at aspaces family or friend’s homebathroom •• Shared spaces withmember’s many people and shared facilities (e.g., dormitory-style hostels) • A house or cabin with people that are not in your household • Source: Shared spaces with many CDC. Know Your Travel Risk people and shared bathroom facilities (e.g., dormitory-style hostels)

Source: CDC. Know Your Travel Risk

Source: CDC. Know Your Travel Risk

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OCEE 10/24/2020

OCEE 10/24/2020 OCEE 10/24/2020

NOVEMBER 24, 2020 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

texas catholic herald

11

EDUCATION

New directors in CSO focus on student wellness, education during pandemic

BY LESLIE BARRERA Catholic Schools Office

Systems.

WHY educational technology?

It’s the future; it’s really where HOUSTON — As schools around everything is going. I believe it helps to the Archdiocese continue to provide keep us connected, especially in our faith. for students’ academic, emotional and Whether that’s through virtual Mass spiritual needs during the pandemic, settings or through the virtual classroom the Catholic Schools Office added two or Theology courses, educational new directors to continue to support the technology is going to push us to be network of Catholic schools. better; it’s going to push our students to be better. It’s also going to prepare Brandon France, Director of them for what they can expect in the job Educational Technology & Data market and in their careers.

How do you see educational What is your favorite thing about the technology progressing in our Catholic Archdiocese so far? schools?

My favorite thing would be the I see educational technology hospitality I’ve received from everyone enhancing 21st-Century learning here. It’s been a very warm that promotes critical thinking, welcome, and everyone’s so communication, collaboration, willing to help serve their school as well as creativity. Our teachers and their community. can enhance their teaching with What is your go-to piece of technology so that students are tech? prepared not only for the content I would have to go with my they receive in the classroom laptop. It’s sturdy, it does what but also for what comes beyond I need it to do and it’s portable, our schools — college and which opens up the possibilities future jobs. It will help students of what I can do with it.

BRANDON become better able to work Is there any advice you’d FRANCE collaboratively with others, offer to parents in terms of learn to troubleshoot issues as navigating their children’s use they come and overcome adversity. That’s of technology right now? what I see the educational technology Right now, parents will want to be in our classrooms doing — helping our aware of Apps that hide other Apps or teachers promote the overall wellness of functions that encourage kids to keep our students. their data secret from their parents.

What’s ‘hot’ in the world of educational This could like an alarm clock App, but technology right now? beneath that, the App could be hiding I think something that’s hot other Apps that you might not in the world of educational allow your child to download, technology right now would be so I’d be aware of that. I’d also the concept of blended learning. encourage to be aware of kids’ COVID-19 has definitely pushed social media platforms — who Catholic schools to move into they’re following, what they’re either fully remote or a hybrid following and also the type version of learning. Blended of information and data that learning allows students they’re putting out there, even ownership of their assignments, from a photo that may contain creativity and what can be done personal information they REGINA in the world of assessments. might not realize is visible.

ABANATHY It also allows for technologyFor example, I’ve even seen based lesson plans, whether something as personal as a that’s student self-guided assignments or social security number posted to social teacher prepared asynchronous lessons media. Be aware of what is posted that let teachers support the students as because even if the account is private, it needed. I believe it’s something that is can be found. not necessarily new, but something we’re being called back to do, and I think we’re Regina Abanathy, Director of Child doing it quite well.

Nutrition Is there a goal that you have for this What would you like parents to know academic year? about the Child Nutrition program?

To create a central hub, not just for The Child Nutrition Program is a our technology specialists but also for federal program designed to meet the all of our teachers, where they can get needs of families who need additional professional development or resources support to supplement their child’s they can use and apply in their classrooms daily mean intake. The program, in our and to their lesson-planning. I feel that Catholic schools, supports those schools in this position, I’m able to support with families who have been identified as and serve the school communities as a possibly benefitting from the services. It direct point-of-contact for educational allows students to receive meals either technology and professional development free from cost or at a reduced cost. What I offered for teachers. I’m looking forward want parents to know about this program to providing webinars dealing with is that it is not just for the students educational resources, products the that qualify by meeting the eligibility schools are working with, and helping requirements; it is for all students so that schools with their Student Information they can have access to two meals and a

snack during the day.

Are there any tips you might offer parents to help increase student wellness?

Sure! It’s important to help boost good habits, healthy lifestyles and understanding what wellness means and that it starts with a balanced diet.

Tip#1: Find resources like the https:// www.choosemyplate.gov/ website or ChooseMyPlate App, which are excellent resources for families who are looking for meal and snack ideas.

Tip #2: Utilize cooking as family time and make it a family activity.

Tip #3: Understanding the difference between processed foods and whole foods in order to use that information to make the best decisions for planning their child’s meals.

What is a fun and healthy snack option you’d recommend?

Fruit or apple slices with nut butter are a healthy and fun snack. If you’re allergic to nut butter, sun butter is a great alternative. It’s made from sunflower seeds and is not from a nut. So are raw vegetables, like carrots or celery, that you can dip in a low-calorie ranch or other fun dip. Fruits and vegetables are an excellent go-to snack because they are easy to purchase already prepared or

can be easily prepared yourself and are easy to store. It’s also easy for the kids to just grab the snack and go. Fruits and vegetables are always at the top of my list as a fun go-to snack.

How can families promote wellness?

Essentially there are two things to start with — diet and exercise. Those two together, that’s it in a nutshell. Eighty-five percent of it is nutrition, and sometimes people don’t really realize that, but it’s all about our dietary intake and movement.

Is there a fun way that families can empower children to unplug and increase outdoor activity?

One fun way is to get active together.

Making it a fun day where you can walk or move together in a park or have fun as a family. Keep them moving and focus on putting down the games or devices and focus on incorporating movement. When we exercise, we’re engaging different muscles, and that helps us to remain flexible and strong. Kids are resilient, but movement and exercise help kids to avoid certain ailments that can occur as flexibility diminishes over time.

How do you define the importance of nutrition and wellness?

One of my taglines is ‘Health is Wealth.’

There is nothing more valuable than your life and your health. †

PRIORITY APPLICATION DEADLINE December 15, 2020 www.incarnateword.org/apply

12 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

NOVEMBER 24, 2020

YOUTH In Gratitude: God’s plan is filled with blessings I was blessed to be raised in a family that emphasized being grateful for what one had and received. Indeed, nowadays, I am often made aware of the many youths who lead a life of gratitude; they are quick to share the things and ways God has blessed them. Over time, I have observed that gratitude is a virtue that, when authentically experienced, will grow, deepen and evolve into a treasure of one’s life.

How many times have we heard someone say “count your blessings?”

Awareness seems to be a big catalyst for growing in gratitude. The process of mentally gathering those blessings makes us feel good; perhaps it makes us feel cared for.

Awareness of our blessings moves us to thank those who have shared a particular gift with us. We may be moved to gratitude of God for placing those people in our lives. Then one begins to see that this concept of gratitude is created by design — God’s design. We

begin to know that gratitude is a gift from God, a grace. Gratitude yields joy and love and gives life.

What an intricate plan God has for each of our lives that he would place by people in our paths to bless us. Or better yet, NORMA what a wonderful plan TOROK God has for us, placing each one of us in the life of others that we might bless them through our acts and words. Awareness of this grace also deepens our gratitude. Am I aware of this grace in my life? Am I developing a spirituality of gratitude for God’s continued and constant plan of blessing for me?

St. Theresa of Calcutta said, “The best way to show my gratitude is to accept everything, even my problems, with joy.”

Talk about an evolved sense of gratitude:

†

Raising Awareness & Support for Catholic Education

accepting problems. So many times, I recall lamenting, Lord, please fix this; or Lord, please heal me.

However, a mature faith will yield gratitude wherein one begins to thank God for one’s blessings then adds, “Lord, if it is Your will, take this situation away from me or heal me.” Or perhaps, an evolved sense of gratitude will say, “Please God, let me endure and learn from this situation that I may give thanks because You know what I need, and I know there is some gift in all of this.”

During this season of Thanksgiving,

TEENTALK

HOOLS!

FOR RACE INFORMATION VISIT

Norma Torok is an associate director in the Office of Adolescent Catechesis and Evangelization.

Teens in the Archdiocesan Youth Council share their own faith life experiences.

Q: What are some blessings in your life that you thank God for?

“God has blessed me with many things. One of the most important blessings that I am most thankful for is the ability to get an education. I believe this is critical in order to be successful in life, and God has blessed me with the knowledge to succeed.”

– John H., St. John the Baptist (Alvin)

“There are a few things that I find I am grateful for when I pray every night, and it doesn’t consist of new shoes, AirPods or materialistic items. I find that at the end of each day, what most impacts my life are friends and family who provide that up-close love that inspires me daily.”

– Grace H., St. Edward (Spring)

“Gratitude is when you appreciate everything that comes at you in life. From staying on the bench at your first basketball game to getting a card, they are all God’s blessings. I am very thankful for everything God has done in my life.”

– Alfredo R., St. Philip of Jesus

“There are so many blessings in my life. First and foremost, I have been given the most incredible older brother in the world. My brother is loving and caring and a wonderful listener. He comes into my room at the end of the day and just asks me how my day was. He has brought me closer to Jesus.”

– Nicole H., Mary Queen (Friendswood)

“I thank God first and foremost for my family. There have been a lot of times that my family has been there for me when I needed them the most. My second blessing that I’m thankful for is the youth ministers at my church. They do so much to keep teens involved and intrigued in pursuing the Church.”

– Patrick C., St. Helen (Pearland)

SUPPORT OUR SC

let us show our gratitude to God for this great treasure — His divine plan of blessing for our lives. Let us give thanks for all the people who bless us, for all God provides and for allowing us to find good in every situation that we experience life in Christ.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thess. 5:18 †

“I thank God every day for my family, friends and for everything I have, but overall I thank God for my mom because she is just so precious, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without her.”

– Nancy R., St. Matthias (Magnolia)

“I thank God for putting in place all the things that brought me to where I’m at right now, good and bad. Specifically, my strong foundation in the faith from Christian television, my privilege in attending Catholic high school, and the love from my close-knit parish.”

– Franklin N., St. Albert of Trapani “Things that I thank God for daily is His love for me, the people that were picked by God to be my family, and the glorious eternal plan He has for me.”

– Aubrea B., Our Lady of Lourdes

NOVEMBER 24, 2020 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

texas catholic herald

13

COLUMNISTS

Retreating from isolation into community

At the end of October, I was blessed to help host an in-person retreat for nearly 20 young adults at the Christian Renewal Center in Dickinson. It was the first in-person event our office had sponsored since the COVID-19 pandemic began back in March. While remaining COVID-safe, the weekend was filled with talks and activities, with s’mores and karaoke, confession and Adoration. I believe young adults would agree when I say that it was so good to be together again.

Spiritual retreats are meant to offer participants a chance to remove themselves from a world full of activity and to refocus their hearts and minds on what is most important in life. However, to many, the last eight months of the pandemic have seemed like one long “retreat.”We’ve already removed ourselves from the old ways of constant motion and busyness. Instead of offering a “retreat from” the world, the “Shepherded Beyond My Fears Retreat” ended up becoming a movement toward connection with God and with others.

Of the many activities offered throughout the weekend, the participants especially appreciated the one-on-one partner discussions. During this time, retreatants paired up three times with three different people and were given discussion questions to reflect on together for 30 minutes. It was wonderful seeing the pairs walking through the beautiful grounds of Christian Renewal Center together. This was the retreat from the pandemic that

was most needed — the retreat away from isolation and into community.

Christ resides in the heart of every person.

When we are given an opportunity to encounter by another human, we encounter a new face of ANGIE POMETTO Christ (c.f. Matthew 25:40). As Pope Francis writes in “Fratelli Tutti,” “No one can experience the true beauty of life without relating to others, without having real faces to love. This is part of the mystery of authentic human existence” (FT 87).

The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly hindered our ability to encounter “real faces.”The faces that we do encounter are covered with masks or protected behind a plastic shield. And yet, even now, we are still called to live as “authentic humans.”We cannot wait until the pandemic ends to pursue community, relationship and service.

“In the depths of every heart,” Pope Francis writes, “love creates bonds and expands existence, for it draws people out of themselves and toward others” (FT 88). The only way to overcome the isolation of quarantine is to move toward another. This movement toward community is not easy. This work takes an investment of time. However, time is now a commodity that many of us have in abundance.

†

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE YOUNG ADULT AND CAMPUS MINISTRY

Young Adult participants in the Shepherded Beyond My Fears Retreat remained physically distant throughout the weekend together. The retreat was a joint effort between the Office of Young Adult and Campus Ministry and the Office of Vocations.

Whether community is formed through an online platform or from one masked face to another, it is important to continue seeking meaningful encounters.

It falls to each of us to make a commitment to retreat from isolation and move toward others. As we continue to wait for the pandemic to end, this

movement outside ourselves and toward another will help us continue to live as authentic humans who encounter Christ in the hearts of others. † Angie Pometto is an associate director for the Office of Young Adult and Campus Ministry.

The waiting game How many times do we remember being told when we were growing up, “wait till you’re older, wait until you’re 16 for your driver’s license, wait to get married, wait to have children, wait, wait, wait…” It seems today we are all waiting for something — a vaccine for COVID-19, a return to “normal,” reuniting with our grandchildren in person, a job if we are unemployed, returning with the full community of our parish for Mass.

The list goes on and on. It’s a waiting game. We muddle through the best we can, sometimes discovering new ways of connecting through technology. But we can all agree it’s not the same. We cry out, like David: How long, LORD? Will you utterly forget me?

How long will you hide your face from me?

How long must I carry sorrow in my soul, grief in my heart day after day?

How long will my enemy triumph

over me? (Psalm 13) The Jewish community, after Jesus rose from the dead, asked the same thing. They were waiting for an imminent return of the Messiah to rescue them. They did not understand that the Second Coming would be delayed for so long. In the Mass readings in these last months, Jesus, through parables, was trying to tell His followers what to do as they waited — follow the laws given and the Gospel message to love God and their neighbor.

Do good deeds for which you will be rewarded when you find yourself face to face with God at judgment. The Scriptures read on Nov. 22, the Feast of Christ the King, point to a different kind of king — a servant King who gives His life for us all.

“Jesus is the center of creation; and so the attitude demanded of us as true believers is that of recognizing and accepting in our lives the centrality of Jesus Christ, in our thoughts, in our

by

JULIE BLEVINS

†

words and in our works.”

(Homily of Pope Francis, Solemnity of Christ the King, Nov. 24, 2013) To acknowledge the kingship of Christ means that we should dedicate ourselves to prayer, building up our families and our parish communities, and bringing healing to a broken world. We need not just to wait, but to take action as we are

able.

Jesus Christ is the center and the point from which all of our prayers and deeds find their source. Let’s take a closer look at the word WAIT. W - stands for wisdom. Wisdom is not the same thing as knowledge. As a matter of fact, you can very easily be acquainted with facts, truths or principles. But, if you don’t apply this

information to your life, you are actually the opposite of wise. Wisdom, especially spiritual wisdom, is not just about knowing what’s good for you but applying that knowledge into your everyday life. When you do that, this is when you know that you are truly wise.

A - stands for action. “Men of Galilee, why are you standing there looking at the sky?” (Acts 1-11) The voice heard after Jesus ascended into heaven was a wake-up call for the Apostles to GET BUSY!!! Jesus’s followers did not know what they were supposed to do. Later, enlightened by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, they realized they were supposed to be about preaching and doing the Gospel message. They were to take care of each other, heal the sick, pray with each other, and do good works in the name of Jesus Christ. The same is true for us. Even in these unprecedented times in which we live, there are so See WAITING, page 14

SUNDAY MASS READINGS NOV. 29

First Reading: Is 63:16-17, 19; 64:2-7

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19

Second Reading: 1 Cor 1:3-9

Gospel: Mk 13:33-37

DEC. 6

First Reading: Is 40:1-5, 9-11

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 85:9-14

Second Reading: 2 Pt 3:8-14

Gospel: Mk 1:1-8

14 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

NOVEMBER 24, 2020

Zoom: A new way for older adults to stay connected Have you ever traveled a familiar road or freeway only suddenly to find that it’s closed? You may grumble about the inconvenience or uncertainty of the experience, but your choices are limited: remain stuck or find an alternate route through a mix of faith and reason.

The COVID-19 pandemic has created a similar scenario with its restrictions placed on face-to-face interactions enjoyed by parish senior groups.

Some parish senior clubs, organizations and families have adapted by using phone calls, emails, Facebook and other resources to help seniors feel connected and supported. Other seniors remain isolated and disconnected from others.

Finding hope in the storms of life is essential for every Christian. This is a story about a parish senior leader, Pauline Newman, who created a new pathway to help her seniors stay connected and to nurture Christ’s presence among them — through technology.

Pauline serves as president of St. Monica’s Silver Steppers senior club. She noted numerous parish ministry leadership roles, including being “the servant of the Lord.”This interview embodies the living of her daily morning prayer: “Lord, let me live a life of purpose and service.”

participated successfully in other organizations’ Zoom meetings and saw it as an effective alternative when face-to-face gatherings were not possible. I viewed it as an opportunity for members by to stay safely connected.

Our parish senior MARK CIESIELSKI members are a tight-knit group who enjoy interacting with each other. Prior to COVID, it included frequent educational and social bus trips, sharing delicious meals and reaching out to members who were sick or homebound.

Why did you start Zoom videoconferencing meetings with your seniors?

I am like most seniors; I am not tech-savvy. But I think it’s important for us to get into the 21st Century or get left behind. We should thank God for this Zoom technology, just like we do microwave ovens and cell phones. I had

How did your members react when you first approached them and then after you started using Zoom?

Yes, four of our members were willing to share their responses for this story.

June, at first, said this new technology was not for her because she was oldschool but now enjoys calling in to connect with the members. Another

†

What is Zoom, and how does it work?

Zoom is an internet social platform used to create virtual meetings where you can see or at least talk with other members. To connect visually, a computer with internet or a smartphone is required, but one can access the audio by any phone. I created a paid Zoom account (there’s also a free version that limits meetings to 40 minutes) at www.Zoom.us.

I schedule the monthly one-hour meeting time, then send an email link invitation to our members or a phone number to call if they don’t have internet access.

member, Jane, liked the traditional phone conference phone calls but now goes across the street to another member’s home who has internet so she can enjoy seeing everyone. Bonnie was eager to join the meetings because of her familiarity with Zoom for business purposes. And Betty was comfortable joining because she had been introduced to Zoom meetings through the Knights of St. Peter Claver.

What are some challenges with using Zoom?

I recognized that our members had different levels of skill and comfort in utilizing Zoom as a communication medium — including me. At first, I was a bit afraid that I would click the wrong button and lose everybody. I reminded everyone that there would be a learning curve so that everyone would need to be patient and understanding with each other as we became familiar with Zoom’s features. We remained focused on the joy of connecting with each other.

What are some of the benefits?

In addition to the members being able to stay safely in touch as an organization, we share life events (e.g., illnesses, deaths) and ask for prayers. Also, members have developed confidence in learning new technology skills, which prompted some to create their own free Zoom accounts and stay safely connected with their families.

What’s an agenda like for a meeting?

A typical planned agenda for our Zoom meetings was similar to our face-to-face meetings except for the shared meals. This included an opening

prayer, committee reports, birthday acknowledgments and shared exchanges on personal needs or organizational matters. Typically about 20 to 25 members join. At the end of the meeting, I leave the meeting room open if members want to continue to visit with each other.

Now that your members have been meeting since April, what are new possibilities to stay engaged virtually?

I would like to invite educational presenters to address various aging issues such as funeral planning or phone scams. (The Office of Aging offered to share a list of vetted community educators on a variety of aging topics).

What would you want to tell other seniors trying to stay safely connected about Zoom?

I would tell other seniors to try Zoom - to just do it! Zoom will never replace the warmth of face-to-face interactions, but it is a good alternative until we can meet safely in person. Our hope is that by utilizing Zoom now, we won’t feel like strangers when we restart face-to-face meetings. It helps us respond to each other’s personal and spiritual needs. It provides a sense of hope by giving us something to look forward to each month and keeps us mindful of the members who cannot connect with us.

For educational resources on aging, contact Mark Ciesielski at 713-741-8712 or mciesielski@archgh.org or visit www. archgh.org/aging. † Mark Ciesielski is an associate director in the Office of Aging Ministry.

Waiting in hope In “The Liturgical Year,” Joan Chittister wrote: “Advent relieves us of our commitment to the frenetic in a fast-paced world. It slows us down. It makes us think. […] Advent asks the question, what is it for which you are spending your life? What is the star you are following now? And where is that star in its present radiance in your life leading you?”

Ironically, Advent begins as life outside of the liturgical year increases in intensity. This time of year can certainly feel hectic as we make travel plans, buy gifts and tend to end-of-the-year tasks and to-dos. This fast-paced season is all too common for college students as final projects and exams culminate in the first two weeks of December. These realities are felt more deeply in light of the anxiety and fatigue of living through a pandemic.

Perhaps, then, Advent couldn’t begin at a more perfect time — an opportunity for stillness and silence, for watchful hope and expectant waiting. Biblically, Advent invites us to enter deeply into that tension of Jesus’ first and second comings — remembering with awe God’s becoming human and awaiting with hope His coming again in glory. We pray, “O Come, O Come Emmanuel,” knowing that God’s presence with us is already but not yet. Such is the meaning of hope: waiting with expectation, as a pregnant woman waits for her child to be born.

But how? We’ve heard this message of

hope time and again, and you may be tired of reading it once more. It sounds nice, but how do we really live it? Our faith story transforms us the more we hear it. We will hear the invitation to by hope many times this Advent, as we did last NICOLE year and the year before LABADIE that. With each re-telling of this story of God lovingly entering into our humanity, our suffering, the message of hope sinks in a new and

†

WAITING, from page 13 many ways we can be the hands and feet of Christ. We just need some creativity.

I - stands for investigate. Find out more about this Jesus, whom you follow. Read the Scriptures, seek out adult formation opportunities at your parish, or join a Bible study. Many parishes are providing online studies.

If you want to be a missionary disciple, you must get to know He whom you follow.

T - stands for thanksgiving. Psalm 13, which we reflected on at the beginning of this article when we wondered “How long, O Lord?” concludes with:

deeper way. It is no wonder that the prophets urged Israel to remember; it is easy to forget the promises that God fulfilled in the past when a new trial emerges in our present. To hope is trust that we are part of a narrative bigger than ourselves, to look toward the resurrection and new life that Christ promises with expectation.

The challenge and opportunity of Advent lie in cultivating stillness and silence, time for resting with Christ. This sacred silence allows us to ponder the hope of the angel’s message as Mary did.

As you enter this Advent season, here are some questions worth sitting with: But I trust in your mercy.

Grant my heart joy in your salvation, I will sing to the LORD, for He has dealt bountifully with me!

This is a stanza of praise that David sings because he realizes that his waiting for deliverance from his miseries has reaped bounties beyond comprehension. He has been rewarded for his faithfulness and trust in God. We also will be rewarded if we have faith in Jesus Christ and patiently await.

We are now entering into the season of Advent that is all about waiting. Mary is the perfect example as she awaits the birth of her Son, the

How is God seeking to come into my life? In what ways is Jesus already present in my life?

How will I respond to the angel’s interruption? Is it easy or difficult for me to trust this message? Why? How might Mary’s waiting and surrender to God be a model in my own relationship with God? What is one way I will be intentional this Advent, preparing my heart to receive Jesus anew? † Nicole Labadie, MDiv., is the director of campus ministry at the University of St. Thomas. fulfillment of the prophecies and seeks to understand her role in salvation history.

Let us remember to invoke her in our prayers as we await with Wisdom, Action, Investigation and Thanksgiving. May this Advent season be a time for you to rediscover and spread the Kerygma, the initial Proclamation of the Gospel: “Jesus Christ loves you; He gave His life to save you; and now He is living every day at your side to enlighten, strengthen and free you.” (Evangelii Gaudium #58) † Julie Blevins, director of the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis.

NOVEMBER 24, 2020 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

texas catholic herald

15

WORLD

Prepare for heaven with faith and good works, pope says VATICAN CITY (CNS) — People sometimes forget life’s ultimate purpose is to prepare for the kingdom of heaven, Pope Francis said.

“People do everything as if they will never depart for the other life. And so, people care only about possessing, of standing out, settling down,” the pope said in his remarks before praying the Angelus with visitors gathered in St. Peter’s Square Nov. 8.

The day’s Gospel reading offered an ongoing reflection on eternal life, he said.

The reading from the Gospel of Matthew said the kingdom of heaven will be like 10 virgins who went to a wedding feast with their oil lamps.

Those who were wise brought extra oil, and those who were foolish did not.

The delayed groom arrived while the foolish ones were out getting more oil, so they found themselves locked out of the feast and were admonished for not being prepared.

Pope Francis said the parable explains how Jesus tells people they must be

CNS PHOTO

Pope Francis greets the crowd as he leads the Angelus from the window of his studio overlooking St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican Nov. 8. The pope said people sometimes forget that life’s ultimate purpose is preparing for the kingdom of heaven.

prepared — both for Jesus’ final coming and in their daily commitment to meeting Him through charity to those in need.

“The lamp of faith is not enough; we also need the oil of charity and good works,” he said.

IN BRIEF Vatican to replace its service vehicles with all-electric fleet

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — As part of its long-running efforts to respect the environment and reduce its use of resources, the Vatican said it was gradually trying to replace all its service vehicles with an all-electric fleet.

“Soon we will start collaborating with automobile manufacturers who are able to provide electrical vehicles for evaluation,” said Roberto Mignucci, director of workshops and equipment for the office governing Vatican City State. He told L’Osservatore Romano, the Vatican newspaper, Nov. 10 that an electric fleet was perfect since the average annual mileage for each of their many service and support vehicles is less than 4,000 miles (6,000 km) given the small size of the 109-acre city state and the close proximity of its extraterritorial properties, such as the papal villa and farm at Castel Gandolfo, 13 miles south of Rome.

The Vatican plans to increase the number of charging stations it already has installed for electric vehicles to include

other extraterritorial properties surrounding the basilicas of St. Mary Major, St. John Lateran and St. Paul Outside the Walls, he said. Over the years, several car manufacturers have donated electric vehicles to the pope, and the Japanese bishops’ conference gave the pope a hydrogen-powered popemobile in October. †

“Being wise and prudent means not waiting until the last moment to correspond to God’s grace” with good deeds, but to convert now, he said.

“Unfortunately,” the pope said, “we forget the purpose of our life, that is, the definitive appointment with God, thus losing the sense of expectation and making the present absolute.”

“If we allow ourselves to be guided by what seems most attractive to us, by the

search for our interests,” he said, “our life becomes sterile; we do not accumulate any reserve of oil for our lamp, and it will be extinguished before the Lord’s coming.”

People of faith must be vigilant and correspond to God’s grace by doing good every day, “so that we can serenely await the bridegroom’s coming” and “pass through the night beyond death and reach the great feast of life.”

At the end of the midday appointment, Pope Francis offered his prayers for those hit by a violent hurricane in Central America, and he expressed his concern over reports of increased fighting in Ethiopia.

Inviting all sides to come to a peaceful resolution through respect and dialogue, he also said he hoped dialogue underway in Libya would help bring stability and peace to the country.

Noting that Nov. 8 was Thanksgiving Day, the pope recalled how important water is for life and for agriculture and, as such, water must be treated as a universal good.

The pope also expressed his closeness to and prayers for rural residents and small-scale farmers whose work is even more important at “this time of crisis.” †

LOCAL CATHOLIC NEWS.

WHERE YOU WANT IT. WHEN YOU WANT IT.

Pope blesses statue of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis blessed a statue of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal as it was to begin a pilgrimage throughout Italy to mark the 190th anniversary of Mary’s apparitions to St. Catherine Laboure.

It was during the second apparition, in November 1830, that St. Catherine said Mary told her to make medals of the image she was seeing — Mary, standing on a globe, with the words “O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to you” written as an oval frame around her.

Mary promised the French saint that everyone who wore one of the miraculous medals “will receive great graces.” †

Advent Silent Retreat December 7 – 11

Christian Renewal Center Retreat Master, Kim Brown To register, visit www.retreatcentercrc.org

WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/DIGITALEDITIONS 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.



16 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

NOVEMBER 24, 2020

STATE & NATION

Bishops focus efforts to promote healing amid pandemic

ASSEMBLY, from page 1 was taken via email Nov. 16, and results were announced Nov. 17. The modifications to the strategic plan required a majority email vote of those bishops present and attending; at its peak Nov. 16, 301 bishops had logged on to the meeting.

Because of the pandemic, the USCCB Committee on Priorities and Plans did two things it said it had never done before when formulating a strategic plan for the bishops’ approval.

One thing was to draft a new strategic priority for inclusion in the plan. The other, according to a report submitted by the committee to the full USCCB, was to “return the 44 already-completed, draft 2021-24 Operational Plans to committees, subcommittees and departments to allow them to make ‘adjustments’ to accommodate the pandemic and associated consequences.”

“A strategic plan with no mention of the pandemic would not reflect the concerns of the bishops or the expected planning environment, and as such would not, and should not, be accepted,” the report said.

As a result, pandemic recovery becomes a new priority, with three emphasis areas. The priority is to “promote the healing of the personal, spiritual and societal wounds of COVID-19 through the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ, the Divine Physician,” the proposed language says.

The three emphasis areas are to: • “Foster the efforts of dioceses and parishes to recover from the destructive impact of COVID-19 upon

REPORT, from page 2 accusations of abuse against bishops.

According to the summary, St. John Paul’s decisions to name McCarrick bishop of Metuchen in 1981 and archbishop of Newark in 1986 were based on “his background, skills and achievements. During the appointment process, McCarrick was widely lauded as a pastoral, intelligent and zealous bishop.”

The summary also said that, at the time, “no credible information emerged suggesting that he had engaged in any misconduct.”

But in October 1999 John Cardinal O’Connor of New York wrote to Archbishop Gabriel Montalvo, then nuncio in the United States, summarizing allegations about McCarrick, thenarchbishop of Newark. The letter was given to St. John Paul II, who asked

CNS PHOTO

Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio of the U.S. Archdiocese for the Military Services celebrates morning Mass Jan. 27 during the Catholic Social Ministry Gathering in Washington. Archbishop Broglio is the bishops’ priorities and plans committee chairman.

the body, mind and soul especially among the poor.”

• “Identify new measures and assist in existing efforts to be prepared to minister effectively in the face of the next potential pandemic or existential threat.”

• “Invite the faithful to share in the triumph of the cross over all destructive forces by encountering the Lord Jesus in holy Mass and being renewed in the healing power of the body and blood of Christ.”

The May 25 killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis brought about further revision to the strategic plan, the

Archbishop Montalvo to investigate.

The nuncio did so by writing to four New Jersey bishops, the summary said without naming the bishops. The bishops, named in the full report, were Bishops James T. McHugh of Camden, 1989-1998; Vincent D. Breen of Metuchen, 19972000; Edward T. Hughes of Metuchen, 1987-1997; and John M. Smith of Trenton, 1997-2010.

“What is now known, through investigation undertaken for preparation of the report, is that three of the four American bishops provided inaccurate and incomplete information to the Holy See regarding McCarrick’s sexual conduct with young adults,” the summary said.

In response to Cardinal O’Connor’s accusations, the report said, McCarrick wrote to now-Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz, St. John Paul’s secretary, claiming: “In the 70 years of my life, I have never had

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committee report said.

“This tragic event and the public response in its aftermath left an indelible impression on the hearts and minds of citizens of the U.S. and the world. The callously cruel treatment of this man, which resulted in his death, shocked the consciences of the Church, its shepherds, Catholic faithful and all humanity,” it added.

Under the priority of “Life and dignity of the human person: Serve the common good as the leaven in a free society,” a revised emphasis area is now proposed to read, “Work to heal the scourge of racism and religious intolerance.”

“Despite starting the drafting process three months late,” the proposed addendums were approved in September by both the committee and the USCCB Executive Committee, according to Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, who is priorities and plans committee chairman.

The strategic plan bears the theme “Created Anew by the Body and Blood of Christ, Source of Our Healing and Hope,” with the words “Created Anew” in the largest type in the logo.

The theme “acknowledges the significance of the challenges the (bishops’) conference and Church faces,” Archbishop Broglio said. “The Church will continue its efforts to restore hope” despite “the disappointments brought on by sexual abuse scandals of 2018,” he added.

The archbishop said the theme should remind Catholics “of the power of the very source and summit of our faith, the body and blood of Christ, the light of the world.”

The modifications to the strategic plan require a majority email vote of those bishops present and attending. †

sexual relations with any person, male or female, young or old, cleric or lay, nor have I ever abused another person or treated them with disrespect.”

“McCarrick’s denial was believed,” the report said, adding that because of “the limited nature of the Holy See’s own prior investigation, the Holy See had never received a complaint directly from a victim, whether adult or minor, about McCarrick’s conduct.”

“Though there is no direct evidence,” the summary added, “it appears likely from the information obtained that John Paul II’s past experience in Poland regarding the use of spurious allegations against bishops to degrade the standing of the Church played a role in his willingness to believe McCarrick’s denials.”

In addition, McCarrick had a relationship with the Polish pope going back to his days as the cardinal of Krakow. The summary said, “McCarrick’s direct relationship with John Paul II also likely had an impact on the pope’s decision-making.”

St. John Paul II “personally made the decision” to name him archbishop of Washington and a cardinal, it said.

The report also concluded that nowretired Pope Benedict XVI did not initiate a formal canonical process against McCarrick or even impose sanctions on him because “there were no credible allegations of child abuse; McCarrick swore on his ‘oath as a bishop’ that the allegations were false; the allegations of misconduct with adults related to events in the 1980s; and there was no indication of any recent misconduct.”

However, after initially asking McCarrick to stay on in Washington for two years past his 75th birthday in

2005, the summary said, new details related to a priest’s allegations about McCarrick’s sexual misconduct emerged and Pope Benedict asked him to step down in 2006.

At the time, the summary said, Giovanni Cardinal Battista Re, thenprefect of the Congregation for Bishops, told McCarrick “he should maintain a lower profile and minimize travel for the good of the Church.”

“While Cardinal Re’s approach was approved by Pope Benedict XVI, the indications did not carry the pope’s explicit imprimatur, were not based on a factual finding that McCarrick had actually committed misconduct and did not include a prohibition on public ministry,” the summary said.

Archbishop Vigano, while working in the Vatican Secretariat of State, wrote memos in 2006 and 2008 “bringing questions related to McCarrick to the attention of superiors,” the summary said.

The memos referred to allegations and rumors about McCarrick’s “misconduct during the 1980s and raised concerns that a scandal could result given that the information had already circulated widely.”

The archbishop, the report said, noted that “the allegations remained unproven,” but he suggested opening a canonical process to investigate.

Archbishop Vigano, who was appointed nuncio to the United States in 2011, was “instructed” in 2012 to conduct an inquiry into allegations by a priest who claimed he was sexually assaulted

by McCarrick, the summary said.

Archbishop Vigano, it continued, “did not take these steps and therefore never placed himself in the position to ascertain the credibility” of the priest’s claims. †

NOVEMBER 24, 2020 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

texas catholic herald

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MUNDO CATÓLICO

Papa: Pídale a Jesús que ore por usted cuando no pueda CIUDAD DEL VATICANO (CNS) — Al pedir ser bautizado con otros penitentes en el río Jordán, Jesús se colocó entre los que se reconocían a sí mismos como pecadores, dijo el papa Francisco.

A pesar de las protestas de Juan el Bautista, Jesús insistió en ser bautizado como “un acto de obediencia a la voluntad del Padre, un acto de solidaridad con nuestra condición humana”, dijo el papa el 28 de octubre durante su audiencia general semanal.

“Jesús es el justo, no es pecador.

Pero Él ha querido descender hasta nosotros, pecadores, y Él reza con nosotros, y cuando nosotros rezamos Él está con nosotros rezando”, dijo el papa. “Él está con nosotros porque está en el cielo rezando por nosotros. Jesús siempre reza con su pueblo, siempre reza con nosotros: siempre. Nunca rezamos solos, siempre rezamos con Jesús”.

Aunque el papa Francisco nuevamente se disculpó por tener que mantenerse alejado de los visitantes y peregrinos debido a la pandemia de COVID-19, no usó una máscara durante la audiencia, ni siquiera cuando saludó personalmente a los clérigos visitantes.

El padre Augusto Zampini, secretario adjunto del Dicasterio para la Promoción del Desarrollo Humano Integral y miembro de la Comisión del Vaticano COVID-19, que hace recomendaciones al papa y otros, habló con los periodistas el 27 de octubre sobre el trabajo de la comisión.

Cuando se le preguntó acerca de que el papa no usaba habitualmente una máscara, el padre Zampini dijo que la gente ha estado tratando de convencerlo de que lo haga.

Continuando con su serie de charlas sobre la oración, el papa reflexionó sobre la elección de Jesús de comenzar su ministerio público con su bautismo,

FOTO DE CNS

El papa Francisco aparece durante su audiencia general desde la biblioteca del Palacio Apostólico en el Vaticano el 11 de noviembre.

que “tenía un carácter claramente penitencial”.

Jesús, dijo el papa, “no se queda en la orilla opuesta del río — ’Yo soy justo, vosotros pecadores’ — para marcar su diversidad y distancia del pueblo desobediente, sino que sumerge sus pies en las mismas aguas de purificación”.

Cuando Jesús salió del agua, los cielos se abrieron y la voz de Dios proclamó:”Este es mi hijo amado”. El papa Francisco dijo que los cristianos deben recordar ese momento en el que se sienten “débiles y vacíos” durante la oración, y deben “suplicar que la oración de Jesús también se convierta en la nuestra”.

Cuando uno dice, “yo no puedo rezar hoy, no sé qué hacer: no me siento

capaz, soy indigno, indigna” hay que “encomendarse a Él para que rece por nosotros”. “¡Tenemos confianza en esto!

Si nosotros tenemos confianza, escucharemos entonces una voz del cielo, más fuerte que la que sube de los bajos fondos de nosotros mismos, y escucharemos esta voz susurrando palabras de ternura”, dijo.

Al final de la audiencia, el papa condenó el asesinato de seis estudiantes asesinados cuando insurgentes separatistas atacaron la Academia Bilingüe Internacional Madre Francisca en Kumba, Camerún, el 24 de octubre.

Los funcionarios del gobierno culparon a los secesionistas anglófonos del noreste de Camerún que han estado llevando a cabo ataques desde 2016 para obtener la independencia.

“Siento un gran desconcierto por un acto tan cruel e insensato, que ha arrebatado la vida de los pequeños inocentes mientras estaban en clase en el colegio”, dijo.

El papa Francisco rezó por el fin del conflicto y para que que “la seguridad de todos y el derecho a la educación y el futuro de cada joven estén garantizados”.

“Que Dios ilumine los corazones para que nunca se repitan actos similares y para que la martirizada región noreste y sureste del país pueda finalmente encontrar la paz”, dijo.

El papa Francisco oró por el fin del conflicto y para que “las armas se callen y se pueda garantizar la seguridad de todos y el derecho de cada joven a la educación y al futuro”. “¡Qué Dios ilumine los corazones, para que gestos similares no se repitan nunca más y para que las atormentadas regiones del noroeste y suroeste del país puedan finalmente encontrar la paz!”, dijo. †

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

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HAVE A STORY IDEA OR NEWS TIP? The Texas Catholic Herald is always looking for new stories!

However, since the TCH staff cannot attend every single event or cover all of the news in the Archdiocese, those in the community are a great resource for news stories and tips. Email story ideas to TCH@ARCHGH.ORG for possible inclusion in an upcoming issue. For information on what to submit and issue deadline dates, visit the website at WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/SUBMISSIONS.

Durante estos tiempos difíciles, los sacerdotes de la Arquidiócesis de Galveston-Houston ofrecerán videos de reflexión espiritual sobre las Escrituras del día para ayudarnos a mantenernos firmes en la fe y la esperanza.

Los nuevos videos en inglés y español se publicarán los domingos, lunes, miércoles y viernes.

Encontrarán los videos en www.archgh.org/ messagesofhope, y en Facebook, Twitter y YouTube. El audio de los reflejos también estárá disponible en nuestro canal de podcast a través de su aplicación de podcast favorita.

18 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • NOVEMBER 24, 2020

MEXICO

Cardenal designado conocido por ayudar a la iglesia indígena CIUDAD DE MEXICO (CNS) — Varios meses después de la elección del papa Francisco en 2013, el obispo Felipe Arizmendi Esquivel de San Cristóbal de Las Casas, México, envió una carta pidiendo al nuevo papa que revisara el tema de la ordenación de diáconos indígenas.

El Santo Padre respondió de inmediato y propuso una reunión con el obispo mexicano para el 12 de diciembre de 2013.

Las ordenaciones de diáconos indígenas, prohibidas por el Vaticano durante más de una década, se reanudaron poco después.

El cardenal designado Arizmendi, de 80 años, estaba entre los 13 eclesiásticos nombrados por el Colegio Cardenalicio el 25 de octubre. Debido a su edad, no participará en ningún cónclave de futuros papas electos.

Sin embargo, para muchos en México, esta elevación se ve como el reconocimiento de un prelado que continuó la labor pastoral de su imponente predecesor en San Cristóbal de Las Casas, el obispo Samuel Ruiz.

El proyecto del cardenal designado Arizmendi, de construir una iglesia nativa en una diócesis mayoritariamente indígena, provocó un conflicto con la jerarquía de la iglesia y las élites terratenientes, pero ha encontrado una nueva apreciación desde la elección del papa Francisco.

“El mensaje básico es una aprobación de esta iglesia en San Cristóbal de Las Casas, una iglesia con este perfil heredado de Samuel Ruiz”, expresó el padre Jesuita Pedro Arriaga, ex portavoz diocesano del cardenal designado Arizmendi.

“Es una diócesis muy importante en América Latina. No hay otra diócesis con tantos diáconos, y lo que esta diócesis ha construido es una iglesia autóctona”, una que es indígena y no descendiente de migrantes o colonizadores.

El cardenal designado Arizmendi llegó a San Cristóbal en el año 2000 desde la vecina Diócesis de Tapachula, en la frontera con Guatemala.

El levantamiento Zapatista que ocurrió en 1994 generó que un grupo de rebeldes ocupara brevemente ciudades en la Diócesis de San Cristóbal. Sin embargo, un acuerdo de paz negociado por el obispo Ruiz mantuvo una paz tenue.

Los paramilitares también cometieron la masacre de 45 miembros indígenas de una comunidad pacifista católica conocida como Las Abejas en diciembre de 1997.

El coadjutor del obispo Ruiz, el obispo Raúl Vera López, fue designado para dirigir la Diócesis de Saltillo en el norte de México a fines de 1999 en lugar de asumir el liderazgo de la Diócesis de San Cristóbal de Las Casas. El obispo Vera fue más franco y “hubo presión política” para que no continuara en Chiapas, indicó el

padre Arriaga.

Los observadores de la iglesia esperaban cambios radicales con la llegada del cardenal designado Arizmendi a San Cristóbal de Las Casas, pero el nuevo obispo “sintió el espíritu de Don Samuel”, expuso el padre Arriaga.

Aunque diferente en personalidad — “era un poco severo y serio” y “solemne”, explicó el padre Arriaga — y mucho menos apasionado en sus pronunciamientos, el cardenal designado Arizmendi mantuvo el rumbo.

Sin embargo, había limitaciones: no se le permitió ordenar diáconos.

Los líderes de la iglesia temían que la práctica de ordenar a hombres indígenas casados, quienes a menudo servían en asentamientos remotos rara vez visitados por sacerdotes y cuyas esposas también asumían posiciones de liderazgo junto a ellos, debilitaría el papel de los sacerdotes. También existía el temor de abrir la puerta a sacerdotes casados.

Los defensores, sin embargo, dicen que la falta de atención pastoral ha contribuido a que Chiapas se convierta en el estado menos católico de México ya que congregaciones no católicas están creciendo rápidamente.

El cardenal designado Arizmendi recibió al papa Francisco durante su visita en febrero de 2016 al estado de Chiapas, a pesar de que el gobierno mexicano no quería que el Santo Padre

fuera allí. Estando en Chiapas, el Sumo Pontífice pidió disculpas por el “despojo” sufrido por los pueblos indígenas.

Ilán Semo, historiador de la Universidad Iberoamericana dirigida por Jesuitas, señaló que ve al nuevo cardenal designado “como uno de los pocos obispos en México que está totalmente de acuerdo con el papa”.

“No cree en la teología de la liberación, pero cree en una iglesia para los pobres.

También tenía un enfoque que la iglesia mexicana no tenía: la democracia, la ecología, y el tema de las víctimas de violencia. Fue un modernizador en la iglesia mexicana”, expresó Semo.

El cardenal designado Arizmendi nació el 1 de mayo de 1940 en Chiltepec, al oeste de la Ciudad de México. Fue ordenado sacerdote en 1963 y se convirtió en rector del seminario de la entonces Diócesis de Toluca. San Juan Pablo II lo nombró obispo de Tapachula en 1991 y lo transfirió a San Cristóbal de Las Casas en el 2000. Su renuncia fue aceptada por el papa Francisco en 2017.

El cardenal designado es autor de más de 30 libros y aún escribe una columna mensual para el diario El Sol de Toluca, de la ciudad donde reside.

Fue noticia en junio por haber sido alcanzado por un fragmento de bala mientras conducía de Toluca a su ciudad natal. El fragmento todavía está alojado en su cuello, declaro el padre Arriaga. †

Hispanic Mi f o nis e c bring Your tr fi Greatest f Gifts TO THE y O V National Encuentro

H

ispanic Catholics comprise more than 50% of our total Catholic population in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston.

It is crucial that support is provided for their fullest integration and participation in our Church.

Recently this office developed a seven-week program called Leadership in Action that helps Hispanic Catholics evolve as leaders within their church and encourages involvement of parishioners in the life of the parish.

Annual Hispanic Ministry Conference

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Diocesan Services Fund Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston archgh.org/dsf

Please consider a gift to the Diocesan Services Fund.

NOVEMBER 24, 2020 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

texas catholic herald

MILESTONES

19

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

Cardinal: ‘All 70 years of St. Francis is here tonight’ ST. FRANCIS, from page 1 parish is the parish of praise.”

“Most of your praise is for people: the children, youth, young adults and adults, the middle-aged and elderly, families, religious men and women, priests and deacons — your parish has always excelled with having a wonderful variety of God’s people,” he said.

According to parish officials, the parish’s original congregation was comprised of 700 families, 60% of Czech descent and 40% of other Anglos. Today, as the demographics in the community slowly changed, Asians and Hispanics join the now predominantly AfricanAmerican congregation. When the parish celebrated the dedication of its church building in 1965, a widely diverse congregation filled the pews, reflecting Houston’s already growing diversity.

CONTINUING THE WONDERFUL WORKS Cardinal DiNardo also recognized the “wide variety” of vocations at the parish, from the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word who founded the neighboring St. Francis of Assisi School, which had marked its 50th anniversary in 2020, to the Daughters of Divine Love and the Missionary Society of St. Paul who help run the parish and its ministries today.

“It’s important that we see the beautiful results in God’s Church,” he said.

Cardinal DiNardo also encouraged the parishioners to keep their young people in the faith.

“We need them to continue the wonderful works of St. Francis of Assisi parish,” he said.

Reflecting on the day’s readings, Cardinal DiNardo said, “it’s a special joy that we should be confident like Paul was in the Philippians, that we should be confident in the sincerity of one another [and] that we will always live with the fruit of the righteousness that comes in Jesus Christ and give glory and praise to

PHOTO COURTESY OF ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CATHOLIC CHURCH IN HOUSTON

Daniel Cardinal DiNardo blesses a bronze scuplture of St. Francis of Assisi outside St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Houston before celebrating a Mass to honor the parish’s 70th anniversary. The sculpture, which weighs more then 300 pounds, was donated to the Kashmere Gardens parish by Dr. Terry Rustin of Houston.

God.” Pandemic guidelines were in effect, with a limited capacity and distancing.

Still, Cardinal DiNardo recognized the gift of the celebration.

“Our 70th anniversary can only really be an anniversary if we celebrate the Gospel feast that Jesus gives us tonight: the gift of His Body and Blood,” he said.

“It’s such a beautiful, beautiful reality we live, that we can always be gathered by the Eucharist and we become partakers of His Body and Blood. We’ll do that tonight at His Gospel feast of the Kingdom, and we’ll be delighted and glad just as the Philippian community was almost 2,000 years ago when they celebrated the Eucharist.”

St. Francis of Assisi was also designated a “Holy Door of Mercy” parish, one of eight in the Archdiocese during the Year of Mercy in 2016. That same year, Father Martin Eke, MSP, was

assigned as pastor and administrator of the parish. One year later, Hurricane Harvey flooded the parish and the region with its record-breaking rainfall. When the water receded the weekend after the storm, parishioners gathered in the shade of a large tree on the parish grounds for Mass.

The parish and school were displaced for 19 months while renovations and restorations took place. The parish had also previously flooded during Tropical Storm Allison in 2001.

REUNITING AT MASS Cardinal DiNardo also embraced the history of the parish, including those who had gone before to the Lord.

He asked the parishioners who they remembered: the catechists, the teachers, the friends and family in the parish, the ministries and organizations.

“They brought all kinds of good to this parish,” he said. “We remember ... all those who had good works that they did with the church. To help the kingdom reach its merciful zenith point. They may have done this in times or days that were really tough. Are they with us tonight? I do believe they are. We’re going to pray with them as we pray for them tonight.”

Cardinal DiNardo reminded the congregation of the eternal sense of the Mass.

“That’s the great thing about gathering at Mass,” he said. “The living and the dead and the saints, everyone’s involved.

Everyone’s involved in the celebration, which is why we consider it so holy because it’s more than us. Imagine all of the 70 years of St. Francis is here tonight.”

Before celebrating Mass, Cardinal DiNardo blessed a new bronze sculpture of St. Francis of Assisi outside the church building. The sculpture, which weighs more than 300 pounds, was donated to the Kashmere Gardens parish by Dr. Terry Rustin of Houston.

With the onset of the pandemic, the parish, like so many others, transitioned their ministries and expanded in ways never before seen.

Masses, Rosaries and daily prayer services were broadcast for parishioners while catechesis also went virtual. The parish’s social ministries shifted into high gear. Through its Good Shepherd grant program, 21 parishioners seriously impacted by the pandemic received financial assistance through the parish. † — Evelyn Wagner Wright contributed to this story.

AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE Editor’s Note: Contact event organizers for the latest updates and information. View additional listings or updates online at www.archgh.org/ata.

DEC. 3

MILITIA IMMACULATA (MI) CONSECRATION/ ENROLLMENT CEREMONY, at Our Lady of Czestochowa (1731 Blalock Rd., Houston). 6:30 p.m. Confessions, 7 p.m. Holy Mass (Extraordinary Form) with MI Enrollment Ceremony following homily. RSVP: https:// midomusmariae.wixsite.com/village/upcomingevents. midomusmariae@live.com.

DEC. 4 – 7

IGNATIAN SILENT RETREAT FOR SINGLE YOUNG ADULTS, Ages 18-35. Men are housed at St. Mary’s Seminary (9845 Memorial Dr., Houston) and women at Holy Name Retreat Center (430 Bunker Hill Rd., Houston).

Inspiring talks and guidance for discernment process, learn the tools of discernment, sharpen your discerning skills, and have a one-on-one visit with a spiritual director. $275 registration fee for 5-day

retreat ($200 for 3-day retreat). Retreat begins at 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4, and ends at 10 a.m., Monday, Dec. 7.). Space is limited. Deadline Nov. 29.

DEC. 7 – 11

ADVENT SILENT RETREAT, at Christian Renewal Center (1515 Hughes Rd., Dickinson). Includes four nights lodging, meals, Sacraments, daily spiritual direction, and daily reflections for meditation. Cost: $459 (early registration). Retreat Master: Kim Brown. www. retreatcentercrc.org

DEC. 12

SELF-GUIDED ONLINE MINI-RETREAT, 9 a.m., Cana Family Institute hosts online Advent Morning of Reflection for mothers of young children. Retreat prepares hearts for Advent transformation. Register by Dec. 9 to receive digital retreat guide, which includes Mass, Confession, and content for three reflections.

Free. Register: CanaFamilyInstitute.com/events. info@ canafamilyinstitute.com

The Spirit of Christmas Market Saturday, November 28 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

Christian Renewal Center 1515 Hughes Road Dickinson, Texas 77539 Enjoy supporting local businesses and artist at the annual CRC Christmas Market. Items include: Religious, Jewelry, Décor, Books, Art, Cosmetics, and more.

Face Covering & Social Distancing Required For more information, visit www.retreatcentercrc.org

20 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • NOVEMBER 24, 2020

STRAKE JESUIT

VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSE Thursday, December 3, 2020 | 7pm

PRIORITY APPLICATION DEADLINE IS TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2020

CURA PERSONALIS At Strake Jesuit, we have been successfully building Men for Others for 60 years. A key to that success is the Jesuit ideal of cura personalis — the care for the individual.

This core value translates into a personal care and attention for each Jesuit student. It also means that we concern ourselves with the education of the whole person. Students at Jesuit learn much more than math and science — they learn about community service, about their faith, and about their responsibilities to the world around them.

At Strake Jesuit College Preparatory, we do much more than prepare our students for college — we prepare them for life as men of God and Men for Others. Learn all about Strake Jesuit from the comfort of your own home! Begin the application process, schedule a virtual meeting with the Admissions Team or a current student, view our virtual tour, register for Open House, learn about Financial Aid, and more at www.strakejesuit.org/admissions or call us at 713.490.8113.

H E A R T, M I N D , B O D Y & S O U L

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