West Texas All Human Life Sacred All Human Life Sacred, Unique, Worthy of Pro- Tection: the Death Deci- Sion of Roe V

IN THIS MONTH’S ANGELUS: West Texas All Human Life Sacred All human life sacred, unique, worthy of pro- tection: The death deci- sion of Roe v. Wade ANGELUS gave legal permission to kill the unborn at any Serving the Diocese of San Angelo, Texas stage of pregnancy. / It was a busy -- and controversial -- year in the Catholic Volume XXX, No. 1 JANUARY 2010 faith. For a rundown, see our Year in Review/Pgs. 12-13 Pg. 2 Coleman pastor recovering after serious car accident JANUARY 2010 CALENDAR The Angelus became stuck, causing the vehicle relieve pressure in his brain. Jan. 1 -- Mary, Mother of God to speed up, leave the road and sub- In the weeks that have passed, Fr. Jan. 3 -- 2nd Sunday of Christmas COLEMAN -- Rev. Romanus sequently roll numerous times. Romanus has made a recovery and Jan. 6 -- The Epiphany of the Lord Akamike, pastor of Coleman’s Fr. Romanus was initially treat- appears to be out of danger. Jan. 10 -- The Baptism of the Lord Sacred Heart Catholic Church, was ed and released but the next day In the wake of the accident, Jan. 17 -- Second Sunday in Ordinary seriously injured December 15 suffered severe headaches and was time Fr. Romanus rushed to a San Angelo hospital (Please See ACCIDENT/3) Jan. 24 -- Third Sunday in Ordinary Time Akamike when the accelerator pedal on the 2007 Toyota Camry he was driving where doctors performed surgery to Jan. 25 -- The conversion of St. Paul The Apostle. World Marriage Day: Jan. 31 -- 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time February’s second Sunday to celebrate marriage sacrament

By Tom and Jeanie Van Vranken

World Marriage Day is celebrated on the 2nd Just 4 Kids Sunday in February and, in 2010, falls on Peter is told in a vision to Valentine’s Day, February 14th. This Day is visit Cornelius/ Pg. 16

sponsored by Worldwide Marriage Encounter

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED ADDRESS SAN ANGELO TX 76902-1829 TX ANGELO SAN

(WWME) and has been SAN OF DIOCESE ANGELO celebrated for each of

the past 28 years. It 1829 BOX PO is a belief of the WWME Organization that faith-filled mar- riages will build strong families and that children of strong Related Stories: families will be better prepared to answer the Bishop Pfeifer on call of God to live the marriage, family life as No. 1 priority/Pg. 7 vocations of  ArchBishop Wuerl Matrimony or Holy on marriage/Pg. 19 Orders.  The Dodds on The World Marriage effective communica-

tion/Pg. 15 Day symbol (above)

US POSTAGE US PAID NONPROFIT ORG. NONPROFIT

depicts the role and TX ANGELO, SAN values of any married 44 NO. PERMIT couple. A husband and wife are symbolically 50 and Counting seen as two candle-like figures reminding us Rev. Msgr. Larry Droll, Pastor of St. Ann’s Church in Midland, that marital love helps to enlighten the world. The couple is joined by a heart, focusing on leads a capacity congregation in celebration of the 50th love as the power that fosters unity within the anniversary of the dedication of the church in Midland. (Please See MARRIAGE/21) Coverage, Pg. 4. Page 2 JANUARY 2010 The Angelus From the Bishop’s Desk All human life is sacred, unique, worthy of protection The death decision of Roe v. Wade gave tion than all the Americans who have died in all the Court, we must pledge ourselves to be the voice and legal permission to kill the unborn at any stage nation’s wars combined. The precious little ones, now advocate for all unborn children and proclaim that all of pregnancy. living and growing in their mothers’ wombs happens human life, unborn and born, from the moment of to be in a place that has become more dangerous than conception to a natural death, is sacred and precious in By Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI any battlefield or terrorist target. The lives of these pre- the eyes of God as all human life has been made in the cious unborn hang in the balance every moment. The very image and likeness of God. Since the deadly Roe v. Wade decision of the latest deplorable decision of the U.S. Senate to include All human life is a gift from our loving Father and Supreme Court on January 22, 1973, more than 52 federal funding to cover abortion in the health care plan Creator and is sacred, unique and worthy of protection. Pfeifer million precious unborn have been destroyed through will provide funding for abortionists to kill even more Each person born and unborn has a special place legalized abortion on demand during all nine months of unborn babies. pregnancy. More unborn children die each year to abor- As we recall the deadly decision of our Supreme (Please See BISHOP/22) DIOCESAN BRIEFS CJM Day of Reflection Gethsemane, the Rock of Agony, the Church of the Holy SAN ANGELO -- Come and experience a day of spiritual The National Black and Indian Sepulchre, and many other religious shrines. There will be Holy renewal with fellow criminal justice ministers from the Diocese Mission Collection 2010 Mass, Liturgy of the Hours, Rosary and Prayer daily. Please of San Angelo, January 23, at Christ the King Retreat Center in call Barbara Schwalb at 325-692-0515 or email [email protected] San Angelo. The day of retreat offers the opportunity to be My dear sisters and brothers in Christ: attentive to God’s personal concern for you through guided prayer, sacred silence, and presentations designed to affirm The Catholic church has a rich history. Today, we continue Cathedral parish to sponsor your challenging dynamic ministry. It will provide nourishment to build the Church. for both your body and spirit as you deepen your relationship Soon you will be asked at your parish to participate in the pilgrimage to Ireland SAN ANGELO – Sacred Heart Cathedral will be sponsoring a with God! Please contact Sr. Estela Tovar at 432-207-0975 for Annual National Collection for the Black and Indian pilgrimage to Ireland from August 4-13, 2010, under the leader- more info. Missions. Your contributions support missionaries here in the ship of Msgr. Maurice J. Voity, Cathedral Rector. United States who are evangelizing in the Black and The trip will visit many sights in the Republic of Ireland, Holy Family-Abilene Mission Indigenous Catholic community. I ask you to give generously including Dublin, Glendalough, Blarney Castle, Waterford, ABILENE -- Fr. Cedric Pisegna, C.P. will lead Abilene Holy to this appeal. Killarney, the Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Moher, Galway and Knock. Family Parish Mission. Feb. 6-7. Fr. Pisegna will celebrate the It is only through the constant generosity of Church mem- Masses will be celebrated at several sites along the way, weekend masses, Feb. 6-7, and will celebrate Mass with talks bers that evangelization efforts among Black and Native including the Basilica of Our Lady of Knock, where Mary at 10 a.m. and different talks at 7 p.m., Mon - Wed, Feb. 8-10. American, Eskimo and Aleut communities have been possi- appeared to many of the people in that town. Subjects of morning talks will be: “Coping With Our Losses in ble for more than 125 years. Churches and schools in “While we will certainly be visiting many of the sites of Life,” “Improving Relationships” and “The Power of Positive African American and Indigenous communities depend on Ireland’s religious and political history, we will also be sure to Thinking.” Evening subjects include “The Holy Spirit and the annual evangelization grants to continue their programs have time to experience some Irish fun,” said Msgr. Voity. Healing,” “Change and God's Mercy, Living Hope.” All are invit- and pastoral activities. “Almost 40 people went on this pilgrimage last year, and every- ed. Childcare will be provided. On February 21, all will be asked to participate in the one had a wonderful time,” according to the Monsignor. “I am Black and Indian Mission Collection. You evangelize by very much looking forward to this year’s trip.” strengthening the faith, continuing the legacy and sharing Souper Bowl of Caring It is also hoped that the group will have some time to visit the mission. On Super Bowl weekend, February 7, parishioners who attend with Father Stephen Kennelly, a retired priest of our diocese, I ask everyone in the Diocese to make a sacrificial gift to Mass are invited to donate $1 each to THE SOUPER BOWL OF who lives with his family in County Kerry. the 2010 National Black and Indian Collection. Thank you for CARING as they depart from Mass. Young people from each Current cost (subject to slight changes) is $3,195 per person your past support, and let us ask God’s blessings upon this church stand at the entrance of the church and receive the dona- in double occupancy. This includes airfare from San Angelo, good endeavor. tions in large soup pots. Best of all, each group then sends every with a limited number of flights also available from Midland and Your servant in Christ and Mary, dollar they collect directly to the soup kitchen, the food bank, St. Abilene at the same cost. Most Rev. Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI Vincent de Paul, Catholic Charities, Catholic Outreach, or other For more information, contact Msgr. Voity at Sacred Heart Bishop of San Angelo charity of their choice. The amount collected should be recorded Cathedral, (325) 658-6567, or e-mail him at with the local church, and then be turned over to the agency or [email protected]. The deadline for signing up is March 7. A agencies that have been selected in advance. deposit of $350 is required. The SOUPER BOWL is the fruit of a single line of a prayer, in the power and joy of the Holy Spirit. It is designed to deepen “Lord, even as we enjoy the Super Bowl football game, help us our prayer life and bring us into a closer relationship with Jesus to be mindful of those who are without a bowl of soup to eat.” and God the Father. Each session gives us greater awareness Scheduled Executions From the seed of that prayer grew this beautiful program of help of the presence and working of the Holy Spirit in our lives--the The Angelus publishes the execution dates of Texas offenders on for the poor and needy. Begun in 1993, this national youth grace and gifts of the Holy Spirit. It is a beautiful way to honor death row each month so that the faithful in the Diocese of San effort has already raised more than $20 million. the Lord’s gift of the Holy Spirit during Lent. Angelo can pray for them. The following offenders face upcoming With roughly 130 million people watching the game, Super Seminar registration fee is $5 per person. Fill out one form execution dates. Please pray for them: Bowl weekend is the largest planned event in the life of our per person. It is important to attend all six sessions. For more Offender/Scheduled Execution Date: country. Hopefully those viewers would be willing to donate $1 information or if you will need childcare call Mike or Buffy Awtry Kenneth Mosley/January 7 for charity. at 665-8985. Gary Johnson/January 12 Henry Skinner/February 24 Holy Land Pilgrimage Michael Sigala/March 2 Lenten Life In the Spirit Seminar Barbara and Deacon Jerry Schwalb of Holy Family Catholic February 18 – March 25, 2010 Church in Abilene are organizing a Pilgrimage to the Holy Land Thursday Evenings 7:00 – 8:45 p.m. from February 18-27. Father Michael Rodriguez of Holy Family Adoption options in West Texas Abilene Holy Family Parish Center Catholic Church in Sweetwater, will be the Spiritual Director. Abilene: The Gladney Center (800) 452-3639 5410 Buffalo Gap. Rd. Places to be visited on our spiritual journey include: Galilee, http://abilene-tx.adoption.com/ Contemporary Praise & Worship Nazareth, Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, Jerusalem, Cana Lubbock: Children’s Connection: 800.456.4862 Catholic & Ecumenical All are Invited! (couples may renew their wedding vows at Cana), Jesus's www.childrensconnections.org The Life In the Spirit Seminar is an introduction to a life lived Stations of the Cross (The Via Dolorosa), the Garden of (More briefs, Pg. 3) The Angelus JANUARY 2010 Page 3 DIOCESAN DATES DIOCESAN BRIEFS (continued)

23 -- SAN ANGELO, Diocesan Natural Family Planning (432) 682-2581; The keynote address will be deliv- Bishop’s Calendar Helping couples to deepen conjugal ABILENE, Holy Family Church, ered by Cardinal DiNardo, Archbishop Pastoral Center – Personnel Board call Mrs. Herman Blahak, (325) 692- of Galveston-Houston and you will Meeting at 11:00 a.m,. love and achieve responsible parent- JANUARY 2010 hood is part of the Church’s total pas- 1820 find the general sessions to be equally 9 -- SAN ANGELO, Diocesan 24 -- SAN ANGELO, Diocesan toral ministry to Catholic spouses. thought provoking and informative. School Commission Meeting at 9 am Pastoral Center – Staff Mass at Fulfillment of this ministry includes both SW Liturgical Conference The workshop sessions are certain to 11-12 -- CORPUS CHRISTI, 8:30 a.m. and Staff meeting at education and pastoral care. This meet the needs of any liturgical minis- in Houston ter. Kenedy Memorial Foundation 11:00 a.m. means “instilling conviction and offering practical help to those who wish to live HOUSTON -- You’re invited to join Additionally, there are two special- Board Meeting us, January 13-16, 2010, for the 48th CHRIST THE KING out their parenthood in a truly responsi- ized tracks within the conference: 14 -- MIDLAND, St. Ann – Mass ble way” (Pope John Paul II, Familiaris annual Southwest Liturgical Clergy: Thursday addressing for Limex at 5:30 p.m. Retreat Center Conference study week at the homiletic preaching in a multicultural JANUARY 2010 consortio, #35). Below are scheduled 15 -- SAN ANGELO, Mass for seminars (San Angelo) and contact George R. Brown Convention Center community. Friday addresses the Staff at 8:30 a.m.; Staff Mtg, 11 a.m. 11-15 -- Buffalo Trail Boy numbers for people who can help you in Houston. upcoming revised translation of the Please take a moment to download 17 -- OZONA, Our Lady of Scouts with more information: Roman Missal. the brochure at www.swlc.org and Perpetual Help – Mass at 11 a.m. 11 -- Heart of Mercy Prayer Grp SAN ANGELO, Christ the King Catechists and Teachers: On 12 -- Adoration Retreat Center, (325) 651-5352, 2-4 then proceed to the registration page Friday, we have incorporated work- 18 -- SAN ANGELO -- Sacred to reserve your spot at the conference 15-17 -- Engaged Encounter p.m. 2010 Dates: January 17, March shops which will benefit catechists Heart Cathedral, ecumenical serv- and your hotel room at the fabulous and teachers as well as liturgical min- 17 -- Natural Family Planning 7, May 23, September 19. Contact ice to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, four-star Hilton of the Americas adjoin- isters. (See session 3B, 3E, 3F, 3G Class 2-4 Amy at amdg@ wcc.net. Jr., Noon. MIDLAND-ODESSA, Our Lady of ing the conference center. (Four-star and 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E) 18 -- Heart of Mercy Prayer Grp 18 -- COLORADO CITY, Mass at Guadalupe, call Christina Nevarez, at a two star price!) Wallace Unit at 6:30 p.m. 19 -- Adoration 19 -- SAN ANGELO, Diocesan 23 -- Criminal Justice Ministry - Pastoral Center – Presbyteral Spiritual Retreat ACCIDENT: Camry pastor was driving subject of recall Council 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 25 -- Heart of Mercy Prayer Grp SAISD Board Meeting – Give 26 -- Adoration (From 1) on Toyota’s web site, “The ota.com and enter “recalls” in the Invocation at 5:30 p.m. 29-31 -- Encounter the Cross National Highway Traffic Safety search field to read the article enti- 22- SAN ANGELO, Sacred 31 -- First United Methodist Staff which occurred on U.S. Hwy. 84 Administration (NHTSA) is warn- tled “Toyota Announces Details of Heart Cathedral,, Pro-Life Mass Retreat between Colorado City and ing drivers about the potential for Remedy to Address Potential with Rosary to follow at Planned drivers-side floor mats to cause the Accelerator Pedal Entrapment.” FEBRUARY Abilene, it was determined that the Parenthood Center, Noon. 2007 Camry Fr. Romanus was accelerator (gas pedal) to stick.” Fr. Romanus is expected to 23 -- SAN ANGELO, Christ the 1 -- First United Methodist Staff Retreat driving was the subject of a recall. If you or someone you know make a full recovery from injuries King Retreat Center - Criminal drives a Toyota, please visit toy- received in the accident. Justice Retreat Heart of Mercy Prayer Group According to an advisory posted 24 -- OZONA, Our Lady of 2 -- Adoration of the Blessed Perpetual Help – Mass at 11 a.m. Sacrament Del Escritorio del Obispo 25 -- BIG SPRING, Mass at 5-6 -- First Central Presbyterian Cornell Unit at 1:30 p.m. Women’s Retreat 26 -- SAN ANGELO, Holy 7 -- CKRC Confirmation Retreat Todo vida humana, un don de dios, es Angels – Presentation to RCIA at 8 -- Heart of Mercy Prayer Grp 6:30 p.m. 9 -- Adoration of the Blessed 27 -- SAN ANGELO, Newman Sacrament sagrada unica y digna de proteccion Center – Mass at Noon 12 -- Deacon Training Program 27 -- SAN ANGELO Visitors’ 15 -- Heart of Mercy Prayer Grp  los Estados Unidos de incluir fondos 16 -- Adoration of the Blessed La decisión mortal de Roe v. Wade Center – Ecumenical Prayer dio permiso legal de matar al no federales para cubrir abortos en el plan de Service for the Feast of Santa Sacrament 19-21 -- Engaged Encounter nacido en cualquier etapa de cuidado de salud proveerá fondos para Angela at 5:30 p.m. abortistas de matar aún más niños no 28-30 -- Rest and Prayer 22 -- Heart of Mercy Prayer Grp embarazo. 23 -- Adoration of the Blessed nacidos. FEBRUARY Sacrament Por el Obispo Miguel Pfeifer, OMI Al recordar la decisión mortal de nuestra 2 -- BROWNSVILLE, 25-28 -- Rowena Men’s ACTS Corte Suprema, debemos prometernos de ser Installation of New Bishop, Most Retreat la voz y el defensor para todos los niños no Rev. Daniel Flores. 28 -- St. Ambrose Wall Desde la decisión mortal de Roe v. Wade nacidos y proclamar que toda vida humana, 5 -- SAN ANGELO, NAACP Obispo de la Corte Suprema el 22 de enero de 1973, nacida o no nacida, desde el momento de Banquet at 7:00 p.m. Miguel Pfeifer concepción hasta la muerte natural, es OMI más de 52 millones de preciosos no nacidos 8-9 -- CORPUS CHRISTI, NECROLOGY sagrada y preciosa en los ojos de Dios ya FEBRUARY han sido destruidos por medio del aborto Kenedy Foundation Meeting que toda vida humana ha sido hecha en la 11 -- MIDLAND, Drug Meeting, 5 -- Deacon David King (2006) legalizado en demanda durante todos los 9 9 -- Rev. Albert Fuytinck, meses de embarazo. Más niños no nacidos misma imagen y semejanza a Dios. 11 a.m. Toda vida humana es un don de nuestro 13 -- SAN ANGELO, San Angelo C.SS.R. (1997) mueren cada año al aborto que todos los Convention Center – Diocesan 10 -- Rev. Leo E. Lavoie (1978) americanos que han muerto en todas las Padre y Creador amoroso y es sagrada, única Conference Day 15 -- Rev. Frank Colacicco guerras nacionales combinadas. Los y digna de protección. Cada persona nacida y 14-16 -- SAN ANTONIO, Oblate (2006) preciosos pequeños, ahora viviendo y no nacida tiene un lugar especial y Associates at 6:00 pm. 20 -- Deacon Mark Reeh (2005) creciendo en los senos de sus madres, están propósito en este mundo. Esos que apoyan 17 -- SAN ANGELO, Sacred 21 -- Rev. Tom Kelley (2005) en el lugar más peligroso que cualquier el aborto y erróneamente dicen que es el Heart Cathedral –Ash Wednesday 22 -- Rev. Francisco Lopez derecho de la madre o los padres de familia (1994) campo de batalla o blanco terroristico. Las Mass at noon vidas de estos no nacidos preciosos cuelgan el escoger, olvidan el hecho esencial que en 19-20 -- ROMA, TX., Youth en la balanza cada momento. La más Rally reciente decisión deplorable del Senado de (Mira HUMANA/21) Page 4 JANUARY 2010 The Angelus

Midland’s St. Ann’s celebrates 50 years

The Angelus for joy, sing joyfully, be glad and exult Bishop joins Tom Craddick, city’s mayor, with all your heart; the Lord, your God is “Rejoice!” took on added meaning on in your midst, a mighty savior.” the Third Sunday of Advent at St. Ann’s 750 others at anniversary of church Some elements of the 1959 dedication Church in Midland. On December 13, were used in the ceremony, including the 2009, the parish celebrated the Golden processional cross and musical selections. Anniversary of the dedication of the The original presider’s chair was returned church building. to the sanctuary. Bishop Michael Pfeifer presided at Father Jack Franco, OMI, of Alvin, the Eucharist of Thanksgiving, begin- Texas, who was stationed at St. Ann’s ning with a blessing of the 1959 corner- from 1968 to 1971, returned to attend the stone. The project architect was in 50th anniversary, as did Sister Carolyn attendance, Bob Zentner, who exclaimed Pelzel, CDP, of Austin, who served as a how great it was to be present to cele- Pastoral Associate at the parish. Father brate this anniversary. Warren Brown, OMI, native son of the A great liturgical procession set the parish, who was ordained a priest at St. tone of praise and rejoicing for the con- Ann’s, represented those from the parish gregation. Representatives of the parish who have become priests. included children from the Parish After the liturgy, parishioners and School of Religion and St. Ann’s guests were treated to lunch at the Midland Catholic School, as well as the Parish Center. Some 750 people shared in the Pastoral Council and St. Ann’s Altar festivities, including Midland’s mayor, Society. The 4th Degree Knights of Wes Perry. Columbus provided an honor guard. Msgr. Droll mentioned that an anniver- Midland’s Knights and Ladies of the sary is an opportunity to look back to the Holy Sepulchre and the clergy complet- past and thank God for 50 years of bless- ed the procession. ings in St. Ann’s Church. But it is also a In his homily, Msgr. Larry Droll, St. moment to look forward to the future. St. Ann’s pastor for almost six years, Ann’s is planning to add a chapel for daily recalled the history of the parish, more Mass and a large commons or gathering than 110 years old, and the contribution space, to the front of the church. Msgr. of the parish to the growth of the Droll announced that the architect had just Catholic Church in Midland, as well as been hired for doing the construction draw- the church building’s being a symbol of ings and Bishop Pfeifer urged the congre- God’s presence in the downtown civic, gation to support the project. medical and economic heart of Midland. He proclaimed God’s blessings through PHOTOS: Clockwise from top left, Bob Zentner, original architect of St. Ann’s, is recognized dur- this church building, the presence of ing Mass; Bishop Pfeifer with concelebrants of Christ in the Masses offered and the the Mass, including Fr. Emilio Sosa, Fr. Ed poignant family celebrations of the deLeon (Our Lady of Guadalupe), Msgr. Jim sacraments. Echoing the prophet Plagens, Fr. Warren Brown and Fr. Jack Franco; 4th degree Knights of Columbus and others line Zephaniah from the Sunday scriptures, up outside the church prior to Mass, and Bishop he called on the congregation to “shout Pfeifer blesses the church’s original corner- stone. The Angelus JANUARY 2010 Page 5 ‘Christ in families, hearts and world’ theme of Feb. Conference Day The Angelus may be reflected: mission; catechesis; counseling from Mt. St. Joseph College witness, prayer, etc. Indeed in the same in Cincinnati, and a D. Ministry from Diocesan Conference Day The annual Conference Day will be way as the Church, the family ‘is a place the Graduate Theological Foundation in Saturday, February 13, 2010 February 13, at the San Angelo in which the Gospel is transmitted and South bend with a focus on leadership San Angelo Convention Center Convention Center. The theme of the from which it extends.’ The family as a development and the human family. “Christ in Our Families ... Conference is “CHRIST locus of catechesis has a unique privilege: He and his wife Lisa enjoy (mostly) Our Hearts ... In Our World” ... In Our Families ... transmitting the Gospel by rooting it in the joys and struggles of parenting their In Our Hearts ... In Our the context of profound human values...It 7 children. Together they volunteer in Schedule of the Day Worl d. ” is, indeed, a Christian education more high school and junior high ministry and 7:45 AM -- Registration Begins The focus of the day witnessed to than taught, more occasional catechesis at St. Joseph Parish in 9:00 AM -- Welcome, Morning will be on family as that systematic, more ongoing and daily Strongsville, Ohio. Prayer domestic church and the than structured into periods.” (#255) Registration begins at 7:45 AM. 9:30 AM -- Presentation -- Christ in impact family makes on The featured speaker is Greg “Dobie” Displays of catechetical resources for Our Families the church community Moser, the Executive Director of Youth exhibitors offer a good opportunity to 11:00 AM -- Break and the world. The and Young Adult Ministry and CYO for interact with the publishers and also a Dobie 11:30 AM -- Presentation - Christ In hope is to make us the Diocese of Cleveland, Ohio. He has chance to review available resources. The Our Hearts more effective parents, worked in parish and diocesan ministry. opening session is at 9:00 AM. Lunch, 12:30 PM -- Lunch (Included) catechists and disciples. Dobie has given keynotes and done train- included in the registration is at 12:30 1:15 PM -- Presentation - Christ In The General Directory for Catechesis ing and consultation in over 90 dioceses. PM. A Sunday Liturgy, with Bishop Our World states, “The family is defined as a He is a writer, trainer, and leader in ado- Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI presiding is at 2:30 PM -- Break ‘domestic church,’ that is, in every lescent catechesis and family faith forma- 3:00 PM. The day concludes at 4:00 3:00 PM -- Mass Christian family the different aspects and tion. PM. Early registration (postmarked 4:00 PM -- Departure functions of the life of the entire church Dobie has a MA in Family Systems before Jan 28, 2010) will be $20. ‘Why Catholic?’ Take a journey through the Catechism By Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI make that difference in your own family. ‘Why Catholic’ partic- ipants take a journey There are many parishes still participating Our diocese continues the journey of through the this year. Just email [email protected] or faith sharing in small Christian commu- Catechism. call (325) 651-7500 and ask to speak nities through the latest RENEW with the Office of Education and PICTURED: International process, “Why Catholic? Seminarians kneel Formation. Journey through the Catechism¿ Por que before a Nativity RENEW International, the diocese’s ser catolico? El Catecismo como Camino” Scene in a CNS File partner in bringing “Why Catholic? The focus this year is the fourth pillar of Photo. Journey through the Catechism ¿Por que the Catechism, “Christian Prayer Truly ser catolico?” to parishes, is a Catholic Deepening my Experience with God.” involved in the ministry organization that fosters spiritu- Why Catholic? is a process to truly deep- process with the al renewal in the Catholic tradition by en one’s relationship with Christ. people. Some pas- empowering individuals and communities Since the beginning of the process, tors have reported to encounter God in everyday life, deepen that they sense their “Why Catholic? Journey through the and why they believe. “Why Catholic? and share faith, and connect faith with Catechism ¿Por que ser catolico?” has homilies have improved because of the action. Their website can be found at Journey through the Catechism ¿Por que faith sharing in their small Christian impacted family life in our diocese in ser catolico?” has strengthened the under- www.renewintl.org. To know how to many positive ways. Hundreds of families community. truly be an active, loving Catholic, take standing that they belong to a world-wide Ultimately, faith sharing unites com- have benefited from the opportunities to Church that is alive and growing. Small part in Why Catholic? learn and practice their personal faith with munities and families. It enables people Por que ser catolico? community members report back that to grow, learn and live their faith and a small community who supports and they are more involved with their parish challenges them to grow. This learning move it to action. Why not start your and surrounding community because they own small Christian community and experience continues to be done in famil- feel more connected and have a deeper iar and simple settings like family homes feeling of ownership and pride. or at parishes where people meet and Many groups, especially in Latino com- share their experiences of God through the munities, meet year-round because they joys and struggles of their life. see the many benefits it offers them. In A tremendous benefit of “W h y the experience of participating in a small Catholic? Journey through the Catechism Christian community, they recognize an ¿Por que ser catolico?” is that so many increased sense of belonging to a church people have come to own as adults the that is nurturing them and their families, faith they leaned as children. Many have an increase in their knowledge of the faith told us of how they were unable to articu- and the Church, mutual support and spiri- late their beliefs or their experiences with tual enrichment. This happens most the Church to their children or friends. intensely where pastors are directly Now they feel confident in sharing what Page 6 JANUARY 2010 The Angelus Year for Priests Priests’ patron, St. John Vianney, also patron of seminarians Publisher’s Note: To commemorate the Year for realized that holiness was a gift from God, but that for permission to hear Confessions. However, because of Priests, I have sent the following letter to each his part, he had to provide an open heart to receive the his dedication to Christ and his unique understanding of seminarian of our Diocese. – Bishop Michael grace and love that God offered him, primarily by taking how a priest should share God’s mercy and compassion Pfeifer, OMI. time for prayer and meditation. St Vianney’s goal was to with others, especially sinners, he proved himself to be bring God into the lives of all the people he ministered the greatest confessor ever known in the history of the September 30, 2009 to. He fully realized that the priest is entrusted with the Church. responsibility to make God triumph in man’s heart. St. John Vianney realized that with God’s grace great Dear (Seminarian): Central to the entire life of St. Vianney was the things would happen in his life and in the lives of oth- I once again want to let you know how happy I am Eucharist, the Mass. St. John Vianney said this about ers. He said: “The priest is not a priest for himself. He that you are a seminarian for the Diocese of San Angelo. the Eucharist: “All good works put together cannot equal is not there for himself; he is there for you…”.for all I assure you of my prayers and I remember you each day the sacrifice of the Mass because they are men’s work, people who need God’s mercy, light, and wisdom. in my Mass. I especially encourage you to give primary whereas the Holy Mass is God’s work. Martyrdom itself As you go through this year of studies, focusing emphasis to your spiritual life and your studies. Make is nothing in comparison to the Mass: it is the sacrifice mainly on your spiritual life, I ask you to meditate often every effort to be present for daily Mass, and I also man makes of his life to God, but Mass is the sacrifice on this letter about the life of St.John Vianney who can encourage you to have a spiritual director who will help God makes for man, the sacrifice of his own Body and help you to become a priest of Jesus Christ for our guide you on your priestly journey. Blood.” Church in our Diocese. You will encounter many diffi- As you perhaps recall when I met with you before you St. John Vianney was known to be an outstanding culties, and at times perhaps you may feel discouraged. went to the seminary, I shared some reflections about the confessor, and he spent hours each day celebrating the Think about how John Vianney had to struggle with his “Year for Priests” that was proclaimed by Pope Benedict Sacrament of Reconciliation with sinners seeking God’s studies, but how he achieved great things by being total- XVI. mercy. Concerning the Sacrament of Reconciliation— ly open to the grace of God that was offered to him. I also mentioned when I met with you that our Holy Penance—Vianney said: “It is not the sinner who returns Remember that you have Christ our Good Shepherd lead- Father proclaimed the Year for Priests to remember the to God to ask His forgiveness; on the contrary, it is God ing you, that you have our Blessed Mother watching 150th anniversary of the death of St. John Vianney, who Himself who runs after the sinner and brings him back over you, and you have the help of is the patron Saint of all parish priests around the world. to God.” In closing, let me remind you that the secret of He is also proposed to all seminarians as an ideal for St. John Vianney is considered to be a model confes- St.John Vianney’s generosity in serving God’s people their lives, especially during their formation. St. John sor, and on July 29, 1859, five days before he died, he lies in his love for God, a love lived beyond all bounds. Vianney is indeed a model for all priests, and for all was still sitting in his confessional box. On the very When his life came to a close, he said “O my God, I those who are preparing for priesthood. Hence in this day he died, as he lay on his death bed, only a few hours have preferred to die in love with you rather than to live letter, I want to share with you a few reflections about before he breathed his last, there were still penitents beg- one single instant without you.” the life and ministry of St. John Vianney that will hope- ging the dying priest for absolution. St.Vianney’s wit- Finally, I leave with you this quote from St.John fully inspire you to continue on the road to priesthood. ness helps us to see how we are simply called to be Vianney: “The priesthood is the love of the heart of The primary quality of St. John Vianney’s life was his instruments of Christ’s grace for others. Jesus. When you see a priest, think of our Lord Jesus holiness. When considered in its deepest dynamics, holi- To become a priest, John Vianney struggled very Christ.” ness consists in recognizing God as the central and much, especially with Latin. He was not a great student, unique reality of one’s life. St. Vianney chose God and and he indeed had to spend many extra hours to make the Y our serv ant in C hrist and M ary, gave his life totally to God, who he knew would be his grade. As John Vianney was not considered to be a great Most Rev. Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI light and his truth and would guide him. St.Vianney student, when he was ordained, he was at first denied the Bishop of San Angelo

Youngsters from Holy Angels prepare party (From Holy Family Youth, Grades 7-12) Publisher’s Note: To honor our priests during the Year for We have some ideas on how we should show our Priests, I have asked the young people of the diocese to priests that we support them and appreciate them. We Priests help us celebrate our express their thoughts on priesthood and especially to express their thoughts on how much they appreciate the can draw pictures and make cards for them, give them good priests who serve them. I share here two letters that food, pray for them, thank them for being a priest and greatest sacrament: Eucharist have come to me from the children and youth of Holy let them know how much they are appreciated. We can Angels Parish in San Angelo -- Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI. pray for more priests to help them. We can go to Mass Without our priests we would not be able to celebrate and help them by becoming altar servers or by bring- our greatest sacrament, the Eucharist. Priests have the By Holy Angels Youth (Grades K-6): ing the gifts to them at the offertory. We can listen to power to call upon the Holy Spirit to change ordinary their homilies and not fall asleep. bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Christ so that We are very excited to hear that we are going to cele- To celebrate the Year for Priests, we think it would we can receive Jesus into us every time we go to Mass. brate the Year of Priests this year. We know that if we be a good idea to have a party. We would prepare food, Our priests have been called by God to further His king- did not have priests we would not be able to celebrate have balloons and decorations and make or give him dom here on earth. Priests bring health and wellness to Mass. Priests are the only people who can change presents. It would also be good to have a birthday our souls. They share the Gospel with us and help us to bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Christ. party for our priests and maybe a picnic. Some sug- come to know God. Priests have been called by God to help us. gested gifts are a cross, a pony or a fish. We are lucky to have an awesome pastor at Holy Priests are important because they teach us about To promote vocations we have to talk to our friends Angels, Fr. Charles. He is funny, smart, helpful, intelli- Jesus and how we can be more like Jesus. Our pastor about becoming priests and we can pray that we (boys) gent, easy to talk to and a fun person to be around. His is very important to us because he teaches us about are called to the priesthood. We can make God, leads us, cared for us, encourages us, leads us in (Please See YOUTH/18) (Please See PRIESTS/18) prayer, blesses us and gives us our sacraments. The Angelus JANUARY 2010 Page 7 Our No. 1 priority: Family life and marriage By Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI Office of Education and Formation, as occasional than systematic, more ongo- religious practice and Sunday worship. there is much interfacing of this new pri- ing and daily than structured into peri- How can we not be dismayed as we To prepare us to celebrate the 50th ority with many other present efforts in ods.” (255) This priority also corresponds observe the sharp decline of family as a anniversary of our Diocese in October, ministry of religious education and for- to the recent document of the basic element of church and society? 2011, I formed a committee in 2006, mation. U.S.Catholic Bishops that was approved Divorce and infidelity have increased, and made up of representatives of the leader- Mary Ann holds a Masters of Pastoral at their November 2009 meeting which many young men and women are choos- ship of the Diocese to discuss the pas- Studies Degree from Loyola University points out the necessity of giving greater ing to postpone marriage or to forego it toral care of our people as we celebrate of New Orleans through LIMEX and a focus to family life and marriage-- altogether—as we have an alarming this great milestone in the life of our Bachelor of Business Administration Marriage: Love and Life in the Divine decrease in the number of Catholic mar- Diocese. After months of study and from Texas Tech University. She also Plan. riages in the United States, together with review, the Presbyteral Council of the brings to the position a wealth of experi- We stress the priority of family life an increase of co-habitation in which Diocese recommended to me to adopt a ence and a faith lived over many years. and marriage in accord with the call that Christ-like mutual self-giving of spous- special document, prepared by the 2011 For several years, she was involved with Pope Benedict XVI made to the U.S. es, sealed by public promise to live out committee called, Family Life and the leadership of our beautiful Retreat Catholic Bishops when he was in the the demands of an indissoluble lifetime Marriage: The Priority for Ministry. Center. United States in April 2008. Pope commitment is simply absent. In such After much review and study, I gladly Establishing Family Life and Marriage Benedict stated, “We will include the circumstances, children are denied a approved this document, and with its as the number one priority in ministry strengthening of marriage and family life secure environment that they need in adoption, established this to be the main for our Diocese is in accord with various among the priorities for your attention order to truly flourish as human beings, priority for ministry. documents of the Church, both from over the next few years. In this year’s and society has denied the stable building To carry out this important ministry, Rome and from the U.S.Catholic World Day of Peace message, I spoke blocks which it requires if the cohesion various options were considered, and it Bishops. The General Directory for about the essential contribution that and moral focus of community are to be was decided that this new Office for Catechesis states, “The family is defined healthy family life makes to peace within maintained.” Family Life and Marriage would be as a ‘domestic church,’ that is, in every and between nations. In the family and In accord with Pope Benedict’s state- placed under the umbrella of the Office of Christian family the different aspects and home, we experience some of the funda- ment to give more emphasis to family Education and Formation that is headed functions of the life of the entire Church mental elements of peace: justice and life and marriage, and in accord with the by two fine Franciscan sisters—Sister may be reflected: mission; catechesis; love between brothers and sisters, the recent major document published by the Hilda Marotta and Sister Adelina Garcia. witness; prayer, etc.. Indeed in the same role of authority expressed by parents, U.S.Catholic Bishops on marriage and The sisters, after much consideration, way as the Church, the family is a place loving concern for the members who are family life, we pledge ourselves as a proposed that the new position be part of in which the Gospel is transmitted and weaker because of youth, sickness or old Diocese, as we prepare for our golden their Office, and I am happy to announce from which it extends.’ The family as a age, mutual help in the necessities of anniversary, to make every effort to that Mary Ann Lewis has been hired to focus of catechesis has a unique privi- life, readiness to accept others, and if strengthen the sacred bond of matrimony, be an associate in this Office, whose lege: transmitting the Gospel by rooting necessary to forgive them. A family is and to prepare people better for this holy main responsibility will be for Family it in the context of profound human val- also the primary place for evangelization, Sacrament that brings husbands and Life and Marriage. She will work close- ues… It is indeed, a Christian education for fostering the faith, for helping young ly with the Sisters and their staff in the more witnessed to than taught, more people to appreciate the importance of (Please See PRIORITY/19)

Holy Trinity Parish--Big Spring Our goals in our faith walk: encourage students in vocations [After the Confirmation celebrations this what are our goals in our faith walk. ties that are happening at the parish and coming months. We feel if we challenge past year, I wrote a letter to the parish ask- We celebrated confirmation October many of the students have mentioned that the students we will inspire them to not ing that the Pastor and pastoral leaders outline for me how they will help our newly 15 and it was a beautiful ceremony. The they have aided in the past and will con- only enjoy their faith, but also be moved confirmed to continue to live the loving Wednesday after the Confirmation Rite tinue serving in the future. to vocations within the Church. presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives, as half of the 2008-2009 confirmation class We speak a lot about vocations and it Thanks for your support through out they use their gifts in service for the com- returned to CCE. We plan to invite all is our hope to get one person from each the year and we hope to bring more good munity. In this regard, below is a letter I have received from the 11th & 12th grade students and parents within a month for a of the Church ministries to come and news on the growth of the students teachers of Holy Trinity Parish. – Bishop reception and present their certificates and speak to the class. It is one thing to throughout this year (2009-2010). We Michael Pfeifer, OMI invite them to share what being con- speak about it, but is an entire different pray that Confirmation, for our students, firmed means to them now. We would experience to have someone come and moves them to a deeper walk with God. By the Confirmation/CCE teachers like to share some of the plans of the speak of his or her love for his or her Grades 11 and 12 returning students. ministry. We will also challenge the stu- Holy Trinity Parish, Big Spring Many of the returning students have dents to participate in the “behind the God bless y ou, and pray for the attended Search Retreats in the Diocese. scene work” of the parish for setting up Confirmation Class of 2008-2009 Their excitement is felt as they recall the Church for the upcoming Holiday Dear Bishop Pfeifer: their weekends. We have had many of the season. Confirmation/CCE 11th &12th Grade students join the Youth Group and plan As teachers, it is our hope to give as Teachers The confirmation class of 2008-2009 on participating in the various events. much exposure to vocations from a first Holy Trinity Parish wanted to express where we go now and We spoke of volunteering with the activi- hand experience as possible over the Big Spring, Texas Page 8 JANUARY 2010 The Angelus

Prepare for changes in the prayers of the Mass By Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI Beginning several months ago, I To help our priests and other liturgical accessible for the listener, but they also encourage the priests of our parishes to leaders prepare for the changes in words, strive to unearth the biblical and theolog- We all need to be prepared for some already begin instructing our people the U.S. Bishops have offered a side-by- ical richness of the Latin texts.” Bishop changes that are coming in the prayers of about these changes that are coming, and side comparison chart of the liturgical Serratelli also stated, “We have a great the Mass, and it is important that we all help all of our people prepare for the new changes—the ones we are used to, and the opportunity during this period not only educate ourselves about these changes in the English translations so as to minimize changes that are coming. to learn about the changes, not only to Mass that are coming with the new Roman the discomfort that might be caused by The U.S.Catholic Bishops, especially learn about the revised texts, but also to Missal translation. The Roman Missal changes in the prayers of the Mass. With through the Conference’s Committee on deepen our understanding of the liturgy contains the standard and proper prayers that proper preparation and education, my Divine Worship, expressed the hope that itself. We encourage priests, deacons, reli- are prayed each day in the Mass throughout hope is that when the time comes to use we will all make every effort to prepare gious, liturgical ministers, and all the the entire year. During the past several the revised texts in the celebration of the for these new changes. To help bring faithful to avail themselves of the infor- years, the U.S.Catholic Bishops have been Mass, our priests will be properly about understanding of these changes, the mation that we are making available.” working on a new English translation of trained, and that all the faithful will have the prayers of the Mass that is based on the an understanding and appreciation of what U.S. Bishops’ Conference has established I strongly encourage all the priests and new version of the Roman Missal that was is being prayed, and become accustomed a website that aims to educate Catholics pastoral leaders of our parishes to discuss issued in Latin by Pope John Paul II during to some of the new musical settings and about the changes in the Mass that are these changes with the Pastoral Councils the Jubilee Year 2000. arrangements of the liturgical books. coming with the new Roman Missal and pastoral leaders and people in reli- At their meeting in November, the Besides asking the priests of our parish- translation. The Web site is at gious education of our parishes and mis- U.S. Catholic Bishops reviewed and voted es to be prepared for these changes, there http://www.usccb.org/romanmissal. sions, and already to begin teaching and on the last sections of the changes in the will be some liturgical aids from the The Chairman of the Bishops’ preaching about these changes so that prayers of the Mass. These have been sent National Office of the Bishops that will Committee on Divine Worship, Bishop there will be a smooth transition. I espe- to the Vatican for authoritative approval be sent out to our parishes to help all of Arthur Serratelli, has said in reference to cially encourage our priests to acquire the and permission to use. Probably these us prepare for the changes in some parts the new changes: “In the years since aids that will be available to help our new changes will come into effect about a of the prayers of the Mass. It is impor- Vatican II, we have learned a lot about the people understand these changes, and year from now when new liturgical books tant that we all take time to understand use of the vernacular [English] in the more importantly to help our people to will be printed. Hence, it is important the reason for these changes, and most liturgy, and the new texts reflect this new become accustomed to the new way to that we all prepare ourselves now for importantly that we learn how to partici- understanding. The new texts are under- participate in the prayers of our greatest some changes in the prayers that we have pate and share in a full way in the standable, dignified and accurate. They not prayer, which is the Mass. been accustomed to pray in the Mass. changes of the prayers that are coming. only strive to make the meaning of texts Odessa forms new chapter against death penalty A new Chapter of the Texas Coalition Against the values that are important to us as citizens and as Death Penalty has been established in Odessa. On Christians…It is a manifestation of our freedom as Death Penalty Review December 6, 2009 the members gathered to elect the moral persons striving for a just society. It is also a Fifteen states and the District of Columbia do not have a death penalty. Of the states with capital officers of the Chapter for this year. The officers are: challenge to us as a people to find ways of dealing punishment, 19 have more than 20 inmates on death row. Fr. Mark Miller, Chapter Leader; Ms. Marcia with criminals that manifest intelligence and com- Cleaver, Treasurer; Rev. Gene Collins, Outreach passion rather than power and vengeance…We urge WASH MONT MAINE ORE ND Coordinator; Ms. Gabriella Botello and Ms. Veronica our brothers and sisters in Christ to remember the VT 35 MINN NH IDAHO WIS MASS Ortega, Ms. Maria Tavarez, Event Organizers and teaching of Jesus who called us to be reconciled with SD NY WYO MICH RI Media coordinators; Ms. Lorina Martinez, New those who have injured us (Mt. 5:43-45) and pray CONN IOWA PENN NEV NEB 224 NJ 175 2 Member Coordinator. for forgiveness for our sins ‘as we forgive those who 680 DEL 77 UTAH ILL IND OHIO DC COLO VA CALIF MO WV MD This chapter is ecumenical in nature and is open have sinned against us’ (Mt. 6:12). We call on you KAN 5 49 KY 1 36 to any person who is willing to help change the law to contemplate the crucified Christ who set us the TENN NC 163 ARIZ OKLA 87 ARK 1 NM SC and practice in Texas so that there will be no more supreme example of forgiveness and of the triumph 119 86 3 58 40 MISS ALA GA 4 4 death sentences for those who commit violent of compassionate love.” 60 LA 205 107 TEXAS 2 2 crimes but rather, life imprisonment without parole Thirty years later, we, Catholics, have not all 85 347 30 FLA so as to safeguard society from further violence. The embraced this belief. Those who belong to the Texas ALASKA HAWAII 393 work of the chapter will be to offer information, Coalition against the Death Penalty believe the time 3 educate the public, lift up both victim and perpetra- is now to stop the state-sanctioned death machine. Death penalty No death penalty tor and their families in prayer, and influence our Join us in changing the law in the State of Texas FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 49 legislation to change the law and practice. and hopefully within the United States. Inmates on death row In 1980, the United States Bishops published a -- Rev. Mark Miller, C.PP.S States with no indicator have fewer than 20 prisoners on death row. Executions in 2008 and first quarter of 2009 Statement on Capital Punishment in which they Parochial Vicar of Catholic Churches of South state: “Abolition of the death penalty would promote Odessa Sources: Death Penalty Information Center, state departments of corrections, Federal Bureau of Prisons © 2009 CNS The Angelus JANUARY 2010 Page 9

2008-2009 Audit Diocese of San Angelo Page 10 JANUARY 2010 The Angelus Making Sense of Bioethics Eutanasia: destruyendo Stem cell ethics and the things we refuse to do recuerdos, rompiendo By Rev. Tad Pacholczyk many other reasons to pur- to walk. That “success,” to do." sue embryonic stem cell however, would not change Refusing to destroy Many well-intentioned research. For example, the ethical objections to human embryos as a scien- lazos pro-lifers have inadvertent- such research is sure to be embryo destruction or tist does not imply any ly adopted flawed or valuable for gaining fur- make an evil act a morally opposition to science Padre Thad Pacholczyk incomplete ther insight into the cellu- acceptable one — though itself, but only to unethi- (De la serie “Making Sense Out of Bioethics”) arguments lar mechanisms underlying it might increase the temp- cal science, which, like while try- the development of an tation for some to cross unethical investment prac- La mayoría de las personas tiene miedo a la fase ing to organism and is already the objective ethical line. tices or unethical medi- terminal de una enfermedad pues esta implica una defend the providing important clues To put it more simply: cine, is invariably harmful dependencia radical, un sentimiento de impotencia y noblest of about how an animal even if it were possible to to society. Good science is algunas veces también dolor. Controlar el dolor es una causes: the builds itself up from a sin- cure all diseases known to necessarily ethical science; obligación seria, si no central, de los profesionales de plight of gle starting cell called the mankind by harvesting it cannot ever be reduced la salud y de todos los que cuidan de los moribundos. the vulner- zygote. Scientific research (and therefore killing) a merely to “efficient” sci- Si bien es cierto que no se deben administrar dosis able and using non-human (e.g. single human embryo, it ence, that which might altas de analgésicos con el objetivo de causar the unborn. Pacholczyk mouse, rat, or monkey) would never become ethi- work or “solve my prob- directamente la muerte, sí es posible darlas a los In the debate over stem embryonic stem cells can cal to do so. We cannot lems” at the expense of pacientes terminales aun y cuando de manera indirecta cells, for example, a com- address these kinds of ques- choose evil that good others. In arguing for ethi- las dosis cada vez más altas necesarias para aliviar el mon argument runs like tions in a responsible way might come, nor can we cal science, those of us dolor puedan acortar su vida. Una atención médica this: and clearly deserves to be ever afford to pay the steep working to safeguard paliativa o terminal de calidad se esmera en Human embryonic stem funded and promoted. Such ethical price of ignoring human life would do well proporcionar medicamentos efectivos, aunque no cell research is wrong non-human embryonic the sacrosanct humanity of to examine our premises excesivos, para controlar el dolor. because we are witnessing stem cell research is, in the embryo, that tiny crea- carefully, so as to avoid Algunos pacientes, sin embargo, al verse ante la new medical treatments for fact, a praiseworthy and ture that each of us once weak or questionable perspectiva del dolor y la enfermedad al final de la vida, sick patients exclusively ethically uncontentious was ourselves. Treating a assumptions that could y aún estando en pleno uso de sus facultades, optan por with adult, not embryonic kind of scientific investi- fellow human being, albeit undermine the thrust of la eutanasia activa más bien que por la atención stem cells. Every disease gation. a very small one, as a our arguments. médica paliativa. Durante el verano de 2009, el that has been successfully Second, the argument means rather than an end, británico Sir Edward Downes –conocido como el treated thus far with stem that adult stem cells are violates his or her most mejor director musical de las obras de Verdi– y su cells has relied on adult helping sick patients while basic human rights. Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk, esposa Joan, tomaron la decisión de viajar a Zurich, a stem cells, while embry- embryonic are not — and In fact, the direct killing Ph.D. earned his doctorate la clínica de suicidio asistido Dignitas y acabar con onic stem cells haven’t thus the adult stem cells of other humans, whether in neuroscience from Yale sus vidas. A Joan se le había diagnosticado cáncer produced any cures yet. are “more ethical” — young and embryonic or and did post-doctoral w ork terminal; Sir Edward, de 85 años, no tenía enfermedad Adult stem cells work, seems to reduce the stem old and in their dotage, is at Harv ard. He is a priest terminal sino deficiencia visual y sordera progresiva. while embryonic don’t, cell ethics debate to a dis- properly referred to as an of the diocese of Fall En la clínica Dignitas, ubicada en un parque industrial, and it’s basically a waste cussion about what works intrinsic evil, meaning it R iv er, M A , and serv es as permanecieron en cama y se les permitió tomar una of resources to pursue best, or what is most is in every instance wrong, the Director of Education dosis letal de barbitúricos. Suiza permite a los something that is not effective. In fact, however, and ought never be chosen at The National Catholic extranjeros ingresar al país para suicidarse, con muy working. Therefore scien- the ethical concerns have as a human act. Intrinsic Bioethics Center in pocas restricciones en el proceso. Los médicos están tists should stop beating very little to do with sci- evils do not admit of any Philadelphia. S ee prestos a administrar a los pacientes un medicamento their drums about human entific efficiency and legitimate exceptions. www.ncbcenter.org de uso veterinario, así que unos cuantos minutos embryonic stem cells since everything to do with the Once we concretely recog- después de beber un vaso de agua mezclada con all the real-life treatments fact that researchers violate nize the immoral character pentobarbital sódico quedan inconscientes y en menos for patients are occurring and destroy young humans of an action prohibited by de una hora mueren. exclusively with adult (who are still embryos) in an exceptionless norm, the (Mira PADRE THAD/23) stem cells. order to acquire their stem only ethically acceptable This argument, often cells. act is to follow the require- employed by those of a Furthermore, it may be ments of the moral law  pro-life persuasion, is strictly a matter of time and turn away from the      -,/(  +5 .+ flawed on a number of before the embryonic stem action which it forbids.           12/# 4 counts. cells begin providing cures Bioethicist Paul Ramsey      +5.+ First, it seems to pre- for human patients. At any put it well in suggesting sume that the only yard- point in the future, we that any man of serious    ./ . 122 stick for determining could be greeted by a front conscience, when dis- 21-%-3, ** 11  2 1  1/2#-0/03"",$1 embryonic stem cell “suc- page news story announc- cussing ethics, will have cess” will be in terms of ing a dramatic “success,” to conclude that, “there -0 /($0$3$*/41 12$0/-00$0(!*$0--)0 benefits to patients who perhaps an embryonic may be some things that 2(,"$ ,$/  $##(,& ,#-,%(/+ 1(-,(1$+0 are struggling with various stem cell transplant allow- men should never do. The     (/01-++2,(-,/$00$0$(*0 ,#&(%10 ailments and diseases. Yet ing childhood diabetics to good things that men do  !* 0. ,-*'-,$-/#$/0 /$3$*"-+$- researchers themselves give up their insulin injec- can be made complete only    would argue that there are tions or paralyzed patients by the things they refuse The Angelus JANUARY 2010 Page 11 Catholic Voices Juan Melendez: A real 'miracle' on death row By Antoinette Bosco then convicted of a crime. Juan's life mother. She had "found" a statue of Our executed. Catholic News Service work now is to tell Americans "how mis- Lady of Guadalupe and gotten a message. Now Juan and many others are calling takes occur that can cause innocent peo- She told him, "Pray for a miracle and you themselves Voices United for Justice. Juan Melendez has been called "a living ple to die." His goal is to "bring us back will have it." They are providing educational services testament to the injustice of capital pun- to civility." That message was repeated to him in a nationwide, addressing the controversial ishment." Before he was exonerated for a Juan was young and at work in Florida dream of his mother, and "that ended my and divisive issue of the death penalty. crime he did not commit, on May 2, 1984, when police descended suicide thoughts," he said. From then on, Their mission is to abolish the death he spent nearly 18 years upon him, arresting him for murder. He he read, wrote, learned English and began penalty in the United States, where 35 on Florida's death row. said he had witnesses who could vouch to appreciate the importance of "love and states still allow executions. Tax- I see this as a miracle for his innocence, "but I had a problem. I understanding." deductible donations may be sent to the story. was Hispanic. " "I served 17 years and eight months for project at 4205 Rancho Grande Pl. NW, I had the good fortune to I could see the shock on the faces of the a crime I didn't commit," Juan said, "but Albuquerque, NM 87120. You can find out have this spiritual man students as they heard Juan talk about his in that time I learned there is something more about the group and contact Juan by visit my home, thanks to years in a 9 feet by 6 feet roach- and rat- more powerful than the system: God! visiting www.voicesunited4justice.com. Ben Jones, a young man Bosco infested cell, often chained and hand- "I had to go back to my Catholic roots "How many people know that 137 peo- formerly of Yale Divinity cuffed. which taught me love, compassion and ple on death row have been released School who now heads the anti-death Before the talk, I had the privilege of forgiveness. I was saved in spite of the because of evidence of their innocence?" penalty organization in my state. having dinner with Ben, several of the system -- by the grace of God." Juan asked me, fingering his religious Juan spoke to me about his faith. Then faculty members and Juan, who sat next Even how the story surfaced proving medal. we all left for Western Connecticut State to me. He told me that he had thought his innocence has a remarkable side to it. Being with Juan Melendez, I clearly saw University where he would tell faculty and about killing himself, but then he had a The real murderer, killed by police two that his mother had gotten more than her students about his mission: to end the dream of his mother in Puerto Rico, who years after Juan was convicted, had left a one "miracle," for her son is not only injustice of capital punishment. prayed continuously for him to be freed. taped confession. Had it not been found free but is inspiring and energizing oth- His story is one I have heard before, 16 years after Juan's imprisonment, this ers, in his words, "to work for life!" how an innocent person is arrested and Then one day he got a letter from his innocent man would no doubt have been

Living Oprah: The effects of media influence Migrating to Canada By Therese J. Borchard cover to cover and refer regularly to We don't even know it's happening. Catholic News Service www.Oprah.com for an entire year to What if, as Rhoads suggested, each see if her life would improve. attempt at media persuasion was a According to a "Working In her entertaining book, "Living kind of prick or physical assault? He Psychology" piece by Kelton Rhoads, Oprah," Robyn chronicles her experi- writes, "Imagine if each influence it is estimated that each year the aver- ment month by month as she tests attempt were replaced with coercion -- age American out Oprah's many equations for "liv- the store owner whacking you across spends 1,550 hours ing the best life." the knees if you didn't purchase that watching TV, lis- I don't want to give away the end- shirt, your boss punching you in the tens to 1,160 hours ing and spoil the surprise. Besides, stomach to make you work harder, of radio and spends Robyn's response is so nuanced and the policeman simply shooting you 290 hours reading sophisticated that I can't do her book in the back for doing 45 mph in a 35 newspapers and justice by telling you what gets a mph zone. After the typical day, you'd magazines. If you plus and what gets a minus. But let be a physical wreck." watch the normal me quote one of my favorite pas- Of course, you would also know amount of TV, each sages: why you were in a foul mood and a day you will have Borchard "I know that I will never truly physical mess. I suspect you'd want seen 100 TV ads. believe I am beautiful if I allow to stop the assaults. Explains Rhoads, "If your job were someone else's definition of beauty to However, with the media, we sec- to simply do the average amount of impact my self-esteem. I know I will ond-guess ourselves, bashing our- watching, listening and reading of the never have a truthful, honest relation- selves for not being pretty enough, mass media, you'd be at it eight hours ship with Jim if I judge my own rich enough or popular enough. a day, seven days a week, 375 days a marriage against others' unions. The There's no registration between the year! (No, that's not a misprint -- you same goes for my friendships and my message and the emotion. couldn't get it done in a year at this connection with my family. It is That's why I think we should get a pace. You'd have to work overtime.)" futile and exhausting for me to shape pinching device every time we scan a Now let's look at a woman who my life to meet anyone else's stan- headline that our psyche may shortly took these statistics a step further. dards. And I know there is a hazardous be experiencing pain if we don't pro- Robyn Okrant, a soul sister of mine divide between being inspired by oth- tect our beliefs and philosophies. living in Chicago, decided to watch ers and being dependent on their guid- Or, heck, maybe we should follow every episode of "The Oprah Winfrey ance and approval." Robyn's lead and turn the tube off. Show," read every "O" magazine Media influence is so subtle today. Page 12 JANUARY 2010 The Angelus The Angelus JANUARY 2010 Page 13

Images from 2009 include, clockwise from top left, women religious Religion, politics meet 2009 pray before receiving news of an Apostolic Visitation; health care, both those for and against; President Barack Obama was conferred with an honorary doctorate degree during a controversial visit to TOP STORIES Notre Dame, and the economy led to both protests and long lines at head-on in 2009 over 1. Health Reform job fairs around the country. The role of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops 2009 in the debate over health care reform drew criticism and praise, depending primarily on where the abortion, other issues commentators stood on the abortion issue. By Carol Zimmermann Congress urged Obama to make good on a 2. Recession/Economy Catholic News Service point he made, namely that he wished to 3. Notre Dame Controversy "honor the conscience of those who disagree 4. Encyclical “Caritas in Veritate” WASHINGTON -- Religion and politics met head-on with abortion." this year, with abortion often at the center of the debate, Cardinal George said health care profes- 5. Visitation of U.S. Women Religious but church-state tensions also arose over public displays sionals and institutions "should know that of religious symbols, threats to the free exercise of reli- their deeply held religious or moral convic- TOP NEWSMAKERS gion and concerns about protecting the conscience rights tions will be respected as they exercise their 1. Pope Benedict XVI of health care providers. right to serve patients in need." Abortion was a key issue in the debate about health He also said that among their other con- In his fourth year as pope, Benedict XVI traveled to the Middle East and Africa, released an encyclical care reform and sparked an exchange of remarks between cerns about health reform, the bishops and proclaimed a Year for Priests. at least one Catholic politician and his bishop. would continue to insist that reform could During the House debate, Rep. Patrick Kennedy, D- not include abortion funding and would pro- 2. President Barack Obama R.I., criticized the U.S. bishops for threatening to tect conscience rights. 3. Sen. Ted Kennedy oppose health reform unless the legislation banned Belmont Abbey College in Belmont, 4. Justice Sonia Sotomayor the use of federal funds to cover abortion. He said N.C., was one Catholic institution that their stance was "fanning the flames of dissent and found its religious beliefs challenged this 5. Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan discord. " year when the U.S. Equal Employment ©2009 CNS CNS photos The House, unlike the Senate, ultimately passed Opportunity Commission said the institu- an amendment to ban abortion funding in the final tion's failure to offer employees coverage of health care bill its members approved, but prescription contraceptives discriminated against women. The year's church-state tensions started with the New Kennedy's remarks, and his vote against the William Thierfelder, college president, said Belmont York City Council being urged to revise a policy that bans amendment, drew reaction from Bishop Thomas Abbey was adhering to Catholic teaching against artificial Nativity scenes in city public schools, while allowing hol- J. Tobin of Providence, R.I., who demanded contraception and exercising the freedom of religion guaran- iday displays of Jewish and Muslim religious symbols. Kennedy apologize for his comments. teed by the U.S. Constitution. The college, which hopes But other discussions about public displays of religious In an interview with The Providence Journal daily news- the EEOC will change its ruling, changed its health care symbols found their way to the U.S. Supreme Court. paper, Kennedy made public a private request from the coverage in 2007 to exclude oral contraceptives, abortions, In February the high court ruled that a public park in bishop in 2007 that he not receive Communion because of vasectomies and tubal ligations. Utah that displays a Ten Commandments monument was his stand on abortion. Bishop Tobin told The Rhode Island The controversy at Belmont Abbey was just one of the not legally required to accept another religious monument Catholic, diocesan newspaper, saying he made the request issues mentioned in a November press conference in under the free speech clause of the First Amendment. In based on the congressman's "consistent actions," but did it Washington announcing the Manhattan Declaration -- a joint October, the court heard oral arguments about whether a confidentially and had no intention of making it statement signed by more than 140 Christian leaders pledg- cross could be displayed on a war memorial on federal land public. ing renewed zeal in defending the unborn, defining marriage in a remote California desert. The exchange between Kennedy and Bishop as a union between a man and a woman and protecting reli- The Supreme Court declined to hear a petition by the Tobin took place just two months after the death gious freedom. The document also mentioned the possibility Diocese of Bridgeport, Conn., asking the court to overturn of the congressman's famous father, Sen. Edward of civil disobedience, if necessary, to defend beliefs. a ruling by the Connecticut Supreme Court requiring the M. "Ted" Kennedy, D-Mass. Washington Archbishop Donald W. Wuerl, one of sign- diocese to release documents from long-settled abuse cases. Even in death, the senator represented the ten- ers, said he hoped that step would not be necessary. The diocese had argued in part that constitutional issues sions between Catholic politicians and the church The marriage issue in particular was a focus in the involved in the case, "including the First Amendment over the abortion issue. He stood with the church District of Columbia, as the City Council approved a bill rights of religious organizations and the privacy rights of on a wide range of issues from immigration reform Dec. 15 to make same-sex legal. It will be sent to Mayor all citizens, are significant and important for the court to to the minimum wage during his lengthy Senate Adrian Fenty, who was expected to sign it before consider." tenure, but his legislative support of legal abortion Christmas. The bill will become law next spring if it sur- The issue of religious freedom also came to the fore in prompted some critics to say that giving him a vives a 30-day congressional review process. the same diocese during the summer when Connecticut Catholic funeral was a scandal to the church. The Washington Archdiocese opposed any effort to rede- ethics officials were investigating whether the diocese vio- Abortion also was at the center of criticism of the fine marriage as other than that between a man and a lated state lobbying laws with its efforts to rally Catholics University of Notre Dame for inviting President Barack woman. The Catholic Church teaches that marriage is a against legislation that would have given laypeople finan- Obama, who supports legal abortion and embryonic permanent union between one man and one woman. cial control of their parishes. stem-cell research, to deliver the commencement address Archdiocesan officials also argued that the bill would The state officials decided to stop the investigation, and receive an honorary degree. restrict the free exercise of religion and would affect the which the diocese called "welcome news, not only for the After his speech, Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago, ability of its agency Catholic Charities to work with the diocese but for all citizens who cherish the fundamental president of the U.S. bishops, and two members of city in serving the poor. rights guaranteed by the First Amendment." Page 14 JANUARY 2010 The Angelus Vatican Vatican to decide fate of young woman who knocked pope down at Christmas Eve Mass By Carol Glatz She was not armed but she prosecution. Catholic News Service showed signs of mental insta- The Vatican statement said bility, according to a Vatican that in the next few days, its VATICAN CITY -- The statement Dec. 25. prosecuting attorney "will have Vatican will decide how to pro- Immediately after the incident to take into consideration the ceed with the young woman the pope was back on his feet reports from doctors and responsible for and appeared unharmed. The Vatican security personnel, and, knocking down Mass and other papal events in light of these, evaluate pos- the pope during took place as scheduled. sible further steps to take." Christmas Eve Maiolo was transferred Dec. Critical to the prosecutor's Mass only after it 25 to a psychiatric hospital in decision will be the doctors' reviews medical Subiaco, about 45 miles out- evaluation concerning Maiolo's and Vatican securi- side of Rome, for what the mental state and whether or not Pope Benedict looks out on an overflow crowd before delivering ty reports, the Vatican called "mandatory clini- she was "of sound mind," his Christmas Message in St. Peter’s Square. Vatican spokesman Maiolo cal treatment." Father Ciro Benedettini, vice Pope Benedict’s Christmas Message said. Maiolo "remains under com- director of the Vatican press Susanna Maiolo, 25, jumped pulsory clinical treatment and office, told Catholic News a security barrier at the start of the case remains under the Service Dec. 28. The prosecutor Jesus came to conquer the Dec. 24 liturgy as Pope jurisdiction of the Vatican judi- will also take into consideration Benedict XVI processed into St. ciary," said Jesuit Father eyewitness accounts, he said. pride, violence, greed Peter's Basilica. As Vatican Federico Lombardi, Vatican When the Vatican prosecutor security guards tackled her to spokesman, in a written state- has all the information, includ- By Carol Glatz the ground, she was able to ment Dec. 26. Because the inci- ing Maiolo's medical evalua- Catholic News Service pull on the pope's vestments, dent occurred on Vatican territo- tion, he can recommend acquit- causing him to lose his balance ry, it is up to the Vatican's ting her of any crime, handing VATICAN CITY — With the birth of Jesus, God came to the and tumble to the marble floor. judicial system to determine her over to Italian or Swiss world as a defenseless child to conquer human pride, violence The woman, who has Italian whether or not to initiate legal authorities, or handing down a and greed with his love, Pope Benedict XVI said. and Swiss citizenship, was proceedings. The Vatican can sentence, Father Benedettini “God conquers our hearts not by force, but by love, and thus taken away by papal guards. turn the case over to Italy for said. teaches us the way to authentic freedom, peace and fulfillment,” he said during his general audience in the Vatican’s Paul VI hall Sainthood causes advance for popes Dec. 23. VATICAN CITY (CNS) — failed to do enough to protect Pope John Paul on the fast track The pope dedicated his audience talk to the importance of the Pope Benedict XVI advanced the Jews during World War II — an to beatification by waiving the mystery of Christ’s birth and the tradition of the Nativity scene. sainthood causes of Pope John accusation strongly rejected by normal five-year waiting period St. Francis of Assisi was particularly devoted to the incarna- Paul II and Pope Pius XII, Vatican historians. for the introduction of his saint- tion and “the God among us,” the pope said. The 13th-century declaring that both had lived After the Congregation for hood cause. That seemed to saint wanted to recreate “the humble grandeur of the event of lives of “heroic virtues.” Saints’ Causes unanimously rec- respond to the “Santo subito!” Jesus’ birth in a concrete, living and topical way and to com- In signing the decrees Dec. ommended the heroic virtues (“Sainthood now!”) banners that municate this joy to everyone,” he said. 19, the pope confirmed the rec- decree for Pope Pius in 2007, were held aloft at Pope John During a visit in 1223 to the Italian town of Greccio to cele- ommendations of Vatican offi- Pope Benedict put the cause on Paul’s funeral. brate Christmas, St. Francis preached to the local residents at a cials who have studied the causes hold and put out the word that In April, the church will mark mountainside grotto where he assembled a hay-filled manger and for several years. Both popes can both critics and supporters the fifth anniversary of Pope an ox and ass to represent the scene of Christ’s birth. be beatified once a miracle is should stop pressing the issue. John Paul’s death. The initial The people were so moved by the ceremony they went home attributed to their intercession. In the end, Pope Benedict diocesan phase of his sainthood with hearts “filled with ineffable joy,” the pope said. The decree on Pope John Paul paired the announcement of Pope cause was completed in April Soon the tradition of recreating a Nativity scene representing was expected, and it fueled hopes Pius’ “heroic virtues” with that 2007. the mystery of the Incarnation spread and became one of the most for a beatification ceremony of Pope John Paul, who is In November 2008, a team of beautiful and intense parts of Christmas celebrations, he said. sometime next year. Church remembered for his acts of theological consultors to the The Nativity teaches believers to warmly welcome God’s experts are already studying a friendship and bridge-building Congregation for Saints’ Causes message “and to love and adore Christ’s humanity,” he said. possible miracle, the cure of a with the Jewish community. began studying the 2,000-page While Easter celebrations focus on “the power of God which French nun from Parkinson’s That does not mean, however, “positio,” the document that conquers death, ushers in a new life and teaches hope in the disease, the same disease from that both popes would be beati- made the case for Pope John world to come,” the pope said, the Christmas creche helped which Pope John Paul suffered. fied together. There is no Vatican Paul’s beatification. After their give the Christian faith “a new dimension.” The decree on Pope Pius came timetable for verification of a favorable judgment, the cardinal St. Francis and his creche highlighted “the defenseless love as a surprise. His sainthood miracle, and in some cases saint- and bishop members of the of God, his humility and his harmlessness,” showing humanity cause has been a point of con- hood causes have waited many sainthood congregation met last that there is a new way to live one’s life and to love, he said. tention with some Jewish years for that step. month and gave their go-ahead groups and others who say he In 2005, Pope Benedict set for the decree of heroic virtues. The Angelus JANUARY 2010 Page 15 Our Faith What good are resolutions (if we don’t keep them)? Our Holy By Father John Catoir These brothers who had been allowed to father in faith, pimped his wife Sarah into Catholic News Service hear the actual Sermon on the Mount, and rich men's harems to save his own skin Father’s who were with Jesus constantly for the (Gn 12:10-20). And Moses, the greatest Monthly Dare we make any new resolutions this three years of his public ministry, and figure in Hebrew Scripture, tried to stam- year? who were even eyewitnesses of the tri- mer his way out of his mission. Even Intentions Some of us have umph of the transfiguration, gave in to King David, the reputed writer of the 2010 only a little confidence their ambitions rather shamelessly. psalms, became an adulterer and a murder- in our own ability to In today's parlance, it would be like er." . keep our promises. We seeing them argue over who would be a In light of such hypocrisies, who are don't understand our- cardinal and who would be a priest in the you to get down on yourself for your JANUARY selves very well. next kingdom. imperfections and weak resolve? Young People and Media. That young In the movie "Anna Jesus gently reproached James and As Blessed Mother Teresa once said, people may learn to use social communica- and the King of Siam," John. Jesus was kind. He always had a "God doesn't expect us to be perfect, he tion media for their personal growth and in we hear the king repeat way of hoping for the best while being just wants us to be faithful." preparation to serve society. the phrase "'Tis a puz- ready for the worst. The impact of original sin on all of us Christian Unity. That every believer in zlement." Catoir The Lord knew that even the great is mind-blowing. That's why making Christ may understand that unity among all And so it is. heroes of the Bible were just human New Year's resolutions can be so worri- Christians is necessary for effective procla- Before you give up on yourself in mak- beings. These heroes have been "so sani- some. mation of the gospel. ing a New Year's resolution, consider the tized by homilists, that we forget how Why not forget all of that and just apostles James and John. In the Gospel of often they yielded to temptations far more begin again? Don't spend any time on the FEBRUARY Mark (10:35-45), we are reminded of how monstrous than most of us would even past and what went wrong. Just step up Scholars. That scholars and intellectuals, they failed to live up to the high ideals of dare to consider," wrote Jesuit Father to the plate and hit the ball. Expect a cou- by sincere search for the truth, may come to an apostle. They quarreled over their sen- William O'Malley. know the one true God. iority in the kingdom to come. He elaborates: "The great Abraham, our (Please See CATOIR/22) The Church's Missionary Identity. That the Church, aware of its missionary identity, may strive to follow Christ faithfully and to How we can sustain religious education in the future proclaim his gospel to all peoples.

By Father Peter J. Daly most pastors, I have a few ideas. coordinators of youth activities can slip Daily Offering Prayer First, I think we need to place our religious education into every youth Catholic News Service O Jesus, through the Immaculate Heart of emphasis on religious education. Jesus group meeting. Mary I offer you my prayers, works, joys and How will we teach the faith to future told us to go make disciples of all Learning could be done in more inten- sufferings of this day in union with the Holy generations? nations, teaching what he taught us. He sive summer programs attended by stu- Sacrifice of the Mass throughout the world. I We Catholics have a real concern did not say we should teach algebra or dents all day for a week. You can get about this. English grammar. Our primary job is to more educational hours in a one-week offer them for all the intentions of Your Sacred In the last 10 years teach the faith. summer program than a whole year of Heart: the salvation of souls, reparation for the Catholic Church in I would drastically increase our weekly one-hour classes. sin and the reunion of all Christians. I offer the United States closed resources for religious education. We Retreats can be learning experiences them for the intentions of our bishops and nearly 1,000 elementary have about 4 million children in parish too. A weekend retreat focused on of all Apostles of Prayer, and in particular schools. religious education programs, twice as prayer, marriage or ethics could be life- for those recommended by our Holy The pace of school many as we have in Catholic schools. changing. Father this month. closures is accelerating. Second, we need a new model for reli- More than 70 percent of gious education. The old model of one those school closures hour per week for 34 weeks is inade- (Please See DALY/21) came in the last five Daly quate. Children miss classes, facilities years. are often poor and teachers are often not The next decade looks equally bleak. trained or supported. Mystical Rose Catholic Books and Gifts In the Archdiocese of Washington, for If we spent more on religious educa- example, we closed several elementary tion and had better facilities, materials 1317 N. 8th Street, Suite 100 schools in the last three years and more and equipment, we might see better Abilene, TX closures are coming. We currently have results. (325) 829-8512 14 schools on a "watch list." Fostering religious education is much Our sole purpose is to bring Overall, the number of youth in cheaper than running a school. Maybe Jesus and Our Blessed Mother to Catholic elementary and high schools we could even charge a reasonable Catholics in West Texas by has declined by about 450,000 students. tuition for it. After all, what do parents offering Catholic books, Catholics were the General Motors of pay for dance classes and soccer coaches? statues, rosaries and other education. Like GM, we had a great Third, there's a lot of learning of the Sacramentals. All of our profits are donated to Catholic causes. business model for 1959. But it doesn't faith that can go on outside the class- Hours -- MWF -- 2:00-5:00 work in 2009. room. Parents can teach prayers and Sat. -- 12:00-5:00 [email protected] Nobody has all the answers, but like devotions at home. Youth ministers and Page 16 JANUARY 2010 The Angelus JUST 4 KIDS Peter is told in a vision to visit Cornelius

Cornelius was a centurion who believed in God. He prayed every day, and he gave offerings to the Jewish people. One after- noon an angel appeared to Cornelius and said, "Your prayers and almsgiving have ascended as a memorial offering before God. Now send some men to Joppa and summon one Simon who is called Peter." As soon as the angel left, Cornelius sent two of his servants, along with a soldier, to find Peter. At noon the following day, Peter went up on the roof to say his Y prayers when he had a vision. In his vision, he saw animals that, according to Jewish laws, could not be eaten. READ MORE ABOUT IT: Christians. His parents died when he A voice told him to eat what he saw, but he answered, Acts 10 Q&A was 20 years old, leaving him a large 1. What did the angel tell Cornelius inheritance and in charge of a younger "Certainly not, sir. For never have I eaten anything profane and to do? sister. Before another year had unclean." 2. What happened when Peter passed, he followed the words of The voice replied, "What God has made clean, you are not to spoke to Cornelius and his family? Jesus to the rich man, selling his pos- call profane." sessions and giving them to the poor. Three times this happened. As Peter was wondering what the BIBLE ACCENT Antony sold most of what he owned, strange vision meant, the voice said to him, "There are three men In the Bible, the term "gentile" refers saving only enough to care for himself here looking for you. So get up, go downstairs, and accompany to anyone who is not of Jewish and his sister. Fearing he may not them without hesitation, because I have sent them." descent. When the disciples began to have done enough, he gave away Peter went with the men to the home of Cornelius. Cornelius preach to gentiles as well as Jews, what he still had, put his sister into the told Peter about the visitation by the angel. they did not expect the gentiles who keeping of nuns and took up a life of Then Peter understood the meaning of his own vision, so he became Christians to adopt the prac- solitude, meager rations and religious said to Cornelius and the members of his household, "In truth, I tices of the Jewish tradition. devotion. In spite of his sparse living, see that God shows no partiality. Rather, in every nation whoever The apostle Paul preached openly He founded a monastery and fears him and acts uprightly is acceptable to him." against two levels of Christianity, encouraged other religious during a Peter summarized how Jesus came to earth and was crucified meaning those who were Jewish and time of persecution against Christians. and rose again, and that Peter had been a witness to all of those those who were not. Instead, in his He remained a model of faith and things. Letter to the Romans he said God courage for monks and laymen until While Peter was speaking, the Holy Sprit came down upon would judge every person "on the his death. those who were hearing him, and they began to glorify God. The basis of faith" and not heritage. We honor him on Jan. 17. men who had accompanied Peter were amazed that the glory of The Acts of the Apostles says that PUZZLE God had now been given to the gentiles as well. Cornelius and the early followers of Jesus became many others were baptized that day. known as Christians, a term we still Unscramble the names of some of After Peter had returned to Jerusalem, the Jewish Christians use today to refer to people who the places where the first Christians believe in Jesus. preached the Gospel. asked Peter about what had happened. Peter explained his vision 1. mjeelraus 2. deauj and what the Lord had done with Cornelius and his family. SPOTLIGHT ON SAINTS: 3. aaairms 4. zaag "As I began to speak," he told them, "the Holy Spirit fell upon St. Antony 5. scudsaam 6. ddaly them as it had upon us at the beginning. ... If then God gave Antony the Abbot (251-356) 7. sprucy 8. straly them the same gift he gave to us when we came to believe in the was an Egyptian whose parents were Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to be able to hinder God?" The Angelus JANUARY 2010 Page 17 Family Faith like a child comes alive during Christmastime By Jimmy Patterson Children's Christmas services, regardless the denomi- make it the historical work of fiction that it would nation, are beautiful in their simplicity and their mes- become. But still, it captures the basic structure of sage of hope. This year, the young people involved in story. The late good Rev. Tom Kelley, who died five years the presentation of the Christmas story at St. Ann's Much the same type of structural simplification can ago this February, always likened the sound of crying focused on the symbols of the season: the star, the be applied to the Christian faith in the last verse of the children in church to the sound of God. crown, the manger, the angel, the sheep and the cross. gospel standard, "Go Tell It On The Mountain": Fr. Tom had no cry room at his The Christian faith boils down to these six symbols, Down in a lonely manger church. Kids were welcomed, one and symbols also represented through the words in a brief the humble Christ was born, all. With his thinking in mind, God but powerful passage in our creed: and God sent our salv ation was everywhere at the Children's For us and for our salvation that blessed Christmas morn. Christmas Mass at our church recently. he came down from heaven: It's a simple message that remains simple -- unless It is maybe the one Mass of the year by the power of the Holy Spirit we make something of it. Leave those words alone and when crying kids can make church he was born of the Virgin Mary, they tell the story of Christ's birth in a stable. Act on goers smile and actually enhance the and w as m ade m an. those words, apply them to your life, and only then does message of the faith and the goodness Patterson In a book I am reading about structure in writing, the their meaning become so much more to us, one and all. and the innocence of children and the message of the sea- author tells a story of how his young son simplifies the son. Easy for me to say, you may be thinking, since story of Robin Hood: Robin Hood went riding. A bad Jimmy Patterson is editor of the Angelus, Director of none of the cranky little ones were anywhere near where guy came. They fought. He won. Communications for the Diocese of San Angelo and a I was sitting on Christmas Eve. Not much of a story without the further elements that freelance w riter based in M idland.

Your Family How to avoid communicating with your spouse By Bill and Monica Dodds they? There. Now let me get back to ... Wait. Catholic News Service So what besides being distracted and What did I just eat?" not listening can help ensure you suc- Not to mention Noah and his wife. Ah, those early courting days. You cessfully avoid communicating with Him: "I'm going to build a great big would stare into each your spouse? Try: boat in the back yard and put two of other's eyes and hang  Talking a lot more than listening. every kind of animal in it." on each other's every  Always zoning out at the end of the Her: "Uh huh, that's fine, dear. I have word. day (with the zone of your choice: TV, to get the laundry in off the line. It looks Oh, those later days computer, video games, food, exercise, like rain." long after you've set- staring off into space ...). A nd, of course, all of the above holds tled into married life.  Staying busy chatting, texting, e- true for our prayer lives too. If prayer is You stare at the com- mailing and on and on and on with com- communicating with our Creator -- and it puter or television and plete strangers who are your online is -- then we need to turn off the distrac- maybe catch every "friends." tions and spend time with God. We need Bill and Monica  Having a really great set of ear buds to listen as well as speak. (And do some other word your spouse Dodds says. If it's when the for your iPod. speaking that isn't asking!) computer is booting up or the TV is  Being with each other only rarely and On the Web: Better Communication showing a commercial. (And not a good only when one or both of you is very, and More commercial. You know, like something very tired. Any longtime married couple will tell that plays during the Super Bowl.)  Wanting to "win" any discussion. you that relationships always need tend- What happened?! (And keeping score too.) ing, including a tune-up from time to The end of the honeymoon, familiari-  Already "knowing" what your spouse time. Looking for suggestions? Check ty, kids, jobs ... life. is going to say. (Having developed the out www.foryourmarriage.org, which is Not that it's all your fault. Or your fine art of coming up with your answer or sponsored by the U.S. Conference of spouse's. Compare: comment even before he or she finishes Catholic Bishops. 1. "Do you see us building a future an observation or question or, better Next: Ten Resolutions That Will Help together? Maybe we should think about still, "reading" his or her mind.) You Be a Better Caregiver ANSWERS getting ma, ma, ma, ma, married. There. Your spouse does some of those, huh? I said it." And you do, too. Every husband does. Bill and Monica Dodds are the 1. Jerusalem 5. Damascus 2. "Did you eat that last slice of pizza Every wife. Probably since Adam and founders of the Friends of St. John the that I hid in the back of the fridge? You Eve: Caregiver and editors of My Daily Visitor 2. Judea 6. Lydda knew that was mi, mi, mi, mi, mine. Eve: "Try this apple. It's really good. I magazine. Their Web site is 3. Samaria 7. Cyprus www.FSJC.org. They can be contacted at Yeah. I said it." got if off that tree over there." 4. Gaza 8. Lystra Similar but not quite the same, are Adam: "Hmm? What? Yeah. Whatever. [email protected]. Page 18 JANUARY 2010 The Angelus Culture ‘It’s Complicated,’ a complex tale with moments both funny, tragic

By John Mulderig Catholic News Service

NEW YORK -- The aptly titled "It's Merryl Streep, Steve Martin, Alec Baldwin Complicated" (Universal/Relativity) fea- and Lake Bell costar in “It’s tures an ethically tangled story demanding Complicated.” careful evaluation by mature viewers. Indeed, to quote the perplexed monarch of Siam in Rodgers and Hammerstein's clas- sic musical "The King and I," from a Catholic moral perspective, "Is a puzzle- dom of church doctrine. ment." For marriage and family life resources That's because writer-director Nancy rooted in Catholic teaching, visit: Meyers' aesthetically smooth-running http://www.usccb.org/laity/. romantic comedy concerns a couple -- The film contains complex moral successful bakery-restaurant owner Jane issues; skewed values; implied sexual (Meryl Streep) and legal eagle Jake Adler activity, some of it adulterous; off-screen (Alec Baldwin) -- who, a decade after their masturbation; fleeting rear nudity; consid- divorce, reconnect and have an affair. erable drug use; some sexual references This, despite his second marriage to and humor; and a half-dozen crude or crass much younger "trophy wife" Agness terms. The USCCB Office for Film & (Lake Bell) and Jane's budding romance Broadcasting classification is L -- limited with Adam (Steve Martin), an architect adult audience, films whose problematic working on an addition to her home. content many adults would find trou- Assuming their union was valid to bling. The Motion Picture Association of begin with, however, the pair's seeming ents split. Thus the three grown kids of Jake's hand to his heart, a gesture made America rating is R -- restricted. Under adultery -- presented as a daring feminist the original match -- Lauren (Caitlin all the more poignant by the audience's 17 requires accompanying parent or adult adventure for Streep's well-delineated Fitzgerald), Gabby (Zoe Kazan) and Luke knowledge that, by now, Jake is seriously guardian. character -- would, in fact, be marital (Hunter Parrish) -- straightforwardly considering deserting Agness and Pedro to - - - lovemaking. Yet the breach of trust with acknowledge that they're still hurt by the return to Jane. the new "spouse" can hardly be excused, long-ago breakup. Like the chats Jane enjoys with her Mulderig is on the staff of the Office for and adds a further twist to the spiritually And, in a touching scene, Jake and quartet of best friends, who also serve as Film & Broadcasting of the U.S. convoluted proceedings. Agness' usually bratty young son Pedro her misguided romantic advisers, the con- Conference of Catholic Bishops. More In its more serious moments, Meyer's (Emjay Anthony) shows his instinctive clusion toward which the plot moves reviews are available online at script does highlight the lasting emotion- affection for his father, while being accords more with freewheeling contem- www.usccb.org/movies. al toll exacted on children when their par- tucked into bed, by sleepily pressing porary mores than with the perennial wis- PRIESTS: We continue to pray for our priests and priests throughout the diocese

(From 6) ering, serving Communion. We should fun it is to be a priest. We have to pro- shake their hands after Mass and thank vide more information to people -- have YOUTH: We can pay homilies are good and he has a good them for celebrating Mass. a job fair just about the priesthood. new priests $10 an hour singing voice. Some of us have had the Besides celebrating Mass and the Most importantly, we have to think of opportunity to travel with him to San sacraments with us we would like to see our own possible vocation to the priest- (From 6) Francisco on our youth trips -- he is our priests help with youth activities, hood or religious life. very cool! And he knows cars! go to retreats, come to religious educa- We thank you, Bishop Pfeifer, for posters to get the message out that we Sometimes we forget to tell him how tion classes, and most of all share their answering the call to the priesthood and need more priests. We can encourage much he is appreciated, but we have own experiences with us. leading our diocese. We will continue to men to serve God and His people and we some ideas on how we can show our To celebrate the Year of Priests, we pray for you, our pastor and the priests can have activities to help people under- support and appreciation to not only would like to plan a party in his honor of our diocese. stand the benefits of being a priest. We him but to all priests. We should tell and present him with a special gift. can pay them $10 an hour. them how grateful we are that they Additionally, we would like to help him S incerely, Bishop Pfeifer, we want to thank you accepted the call to the priesthood. We celebrate his birthday and the anniversary for being a priest and leading our dio- should respect and listen to them. We of his priesthood. Grades 7-12 cese. We also want to thank you for giv- can become more involved in ministries To encourage more vocations, priests Holy Angels Parish ing us Fr. Charles to lead our parish. We at Mass -- altar serving, lectoring, ush- need to spread the word about how much San Angelo love and pray for both of you. The Angelus JANUARY 2010 Page 19

CATHOLIC MARITAL TRENDS are The Adult Catechism similar to those of the U.S. population as a whole. Marriage and Family 53% of adult Catholics are currently married Life: How essential? 25% never been married By Most Rev. Donald Wuerl collapse of individual families precisely 12% divorced Archbishop of Washington because our society no longer supports the basic and essential values on which 5% widowed "They have no experience of family families rest and our community is and therefore noth- built. Even the very definition of mar- 1% separated ing to hold on to." riage is challenged. The ancient time- This was how the honored and universally recognized defi- 4% unmarried and living with partner director of a large nition of marriage as the union of a prison ministry man and a woman is being rejected by program recently an increasing number of state legisla- PRIORITY: described the tures and young people who too often Diocese provides much increasingly large do not have a context for or understand- number of young ing of the fullness of marriage. people, usually Wuerl At the core of the Church's teaching assistance for married couples minority and disad- on family life is God's plan for the (From 7) focus will be to assist parishes in imple- vantaged, who populate our nation's human race, which was set forth so menting the strategies for Family Faith prison system. His experience shows majestically in the Book of Genesis. wives together and is the basis for loving and Formation offered in recent workshops by how, with the collapse of the family, God's original plan -- still operative committed communities. We also pledge our- John Roberto. Another focus is to address the we are witnessing the unraveling of the today -- calls for the man and woman selves to provide more ongoing support for all issues on family life and marriage raised in fabric of society on the local, regional to come together and form a commun- married couples and their families, especially the study done last April in eight areas and national levels. ion of mutual support. "It is not good with our programs that are parish-based. In around the Diocese. It will also be an oppor- Why is the family so essential? Why for the man to be alone. I will make a doing this, we are then strengthening the entire tunity to collaborate with other departments does the Church devote so much effort suitable partner for him" (Genesis Christian family, especially in our parishes. in an effort to promote family life and mar- in defending family life? Why is it that 2:18). This partnership is to be a per- We stress the importance of providing more riage in parishes throughout the Diocese. one of the major priorities of the manent one, as Jesus himself so assistance for people who are contemplating The parish is the pastoral setting to imple- United States Conference of Catholic explicitly confirmed (Matthew 19:3). marriage, and for married couples in accord ment this number one priority of Family Bishops is its pastoral initiative in This vision of family life found in with the teaching of The Catechism of the Life and Marriage. Now is the time for all support of the family? The Catechism Scripture and Church teaching is not Catholic Church which tells us, “By reason of our priests, all pastoral leaders, to make of the Catholic Church answers these always replicated in the secular society of their new state in life and of their new every effort, cooperating with this new pas- questions when it reminds us that "the in which we live. The apostolic exhor- order [Christian spouses] have their own spe- toral office for Family Life and Marriage, to family is the original cell of social tation of Pope John Paul II on the cial gifts as the people of God. This grace look at ways at a local level of giving much life" (2207). It is the natural society in family, Familiaris Consortio, presents proper to the Sacrament of Matrimony is more emphasis to family and marriage. For which a husband and wife come togeth- a beautiful vision of marriage and fami- intended to perfect the couple’s love and this to happen, it is most important that our er in love, and give themselves to each ly that corresponds to God's plan, our strengthen their indissoluble unity. By this priests, pastoral leaders and Pastoral Councils other in love and in the gift of life. true happiness and what we are called grace, they help one another to attain holi- work closely with Mary Ann Lewis for the The family is the first building to sustain as faithful members of the ness in their married life and in welcoming implementation of this priority. For this to block of the human community that Church. We find this teaching presented and educating children.” [CC1641] happen as we move into the New Year, I am grows in an ever-widening set of rela- in both the Catechism of the Catholic This past year, a well-known writer and pre- asking our priests and all pastoral leaders to tionships beginning with a husband Church and the United States Catholic senter, John Roberto, gave a seminar to the give much more focus for planning for fami- and wife, their children, the wider fami- Catechism for Adults. priests, and then a follow-up presentation to all ly faith formation, using the Nine Strategies ly and eventually all those other com- For more information on the meaning the pastoral leaders of our Diocese in that were outlined for us by John Roberto munities -- educational, cultural, social, of marriage and our archdiocesan effort to September. From these seminars, our priority which give us Best Practices in Family Faith economic and, of course, political -- of sustain this great gift of human life and was reinforced, and we realize, as the presenter Formation. These Strategies have already which they become a part. experience, visit suggested, that we need to make a paradigm been shared with our priests and other lead- If the original cell or the foundation- MarriageMattersDC.org. shift as a way we minister and care for the peo- ers, and I am asking them now to study these al building block is damaged in any The Church has two millennia of strategies at every Pastoral Council meeting ple of our Diocese, especially in reference to way, or even destroyed, neither the experience with family life. As the family life and marriage. This does not neces- throughout the year 2010. body of which it is a cell nor the edi- guardian of the natural moral law, the sarily mean beginning something totally new, As we launch this new effort to build up fice of which it is the foundation can but rather reinforcing the many good things we family life and marriage, let us pray especially Church recalls for all of us how essen- long endure. tial family life is and calls us to do all are doing and do them in a more effective way. to the Holy Family—Jesus, Mary and Why has this condition reached such we can as members of both the Church This new position for Family Life and Joseph—to teach us how to develop new rela- a critical point today? There have Marriage will assist the Office of Education tionships of love among ourselves, and to live always been failed marriages and irre- and civil society to sustain and protect, and Formation to continue to provide cate- the virtues modeled by the precious Holy sponsible parents in the past. Today, foster and nourish a true understanding chetical models that enhance family faith for- Family. I thank all of you for your cooperation however, I believe we are seeing such of marriage and family. mation and foster life-long faith. A specific and ask God’s blessings upon you. an extensive and perhaps overwhelming Page 20 JANUARY 2010 The Angelus

EDICTAL SUMMONS EDICTAL SUMMONS EDICTAL SUMMONS December 30, 2009 December 30, 2009 December 30, 2009 CASE: MILLER -- LaCOUR CASE: MILLER -- SULLIVAN CASE: KEENEY -- LEAKE NO.: SO 09/52 NO.: SO 09/53 NO.: SO 09/62

The Tribunal Office of the Catholic Diocese of San The Tribunal Office of the Catholic Diocese of San The Tribunal Office of the Catholic Diocese of San Angelo is seeking Betsy Lynn LaCour. Angelo is seeking Patricia Ann Sullivan. Angelo is seeking Aaron C. Leake. You are hereby summoned to appear before the You are hereby summoned to appear before You are hereby summoned to appear before the Tribunal of the Catholic Diocese of San Angelo, at 804 the Tribunal of the Catholic Diocese of San Angelo, at Tribunal of the Catholic Diocese of San Angelo, at 804 Ford Street, San Angelo, Texas 76905, on or before the 804 Ford Street, San Angelo, Texas 76905, on or Ford Street, San Angelo, Texas 76905, on or before the day of January 2010, to answer to the Petition of Gary before the 31st day of January 2010, to answer to the 31st day of January 2010, to answer to the Petition of Don Miller, now introduced before the Diocesan Petition of Gary Don Miller, now introduced before the Jonie Eldora Keeney, now introduced before the Tribunal in an action styled, “Gary Miller and Betsy Diocesan Tribunal in an action styled, “Gary Miller and Diocesan Tribunal in an action styled, “ Jonie Eldora LaCour, Petition for Declaration of Invalidity of Patricia Sullivan, Petition for Declaration of Invalidity of Keeney and Aaron C. Leake, Petition for Declaration of Marriage.” Said Petition is identified as Case: MILLER Marriage.” Said Petition is identified as Case: MILLER Invalidity of Marriage.” Said Petition is identified as -- LaCOUR; Protocol No.: SO 09/52, on the Tribunal -- SULLIVAN; Protocol No.: SO 09/53, on the Tribunal Case: KEENEY -- LEAKE; Protocol No.: SO 09/62, on Docket of the Diocese of San Angelo. Docket of the Diocese of San Angelo. the Tribunal Docket of the Diocese of San Angelo. You may communicate with the Tribunal in person or You may communicate with the Tribunal in person or You may communicate with the Tribunal in person or in writing. Failure to communicate within the pre- in writing. Failure to communicate within the pre- in writing. Failure to communicate within the pre- scribed period of time will be considered your consent scribed period of time will be considered your consent scribed period of time will be considered your consent for the Tribunal to continue its proceedings in the for the Tribunal to continue its proceedings in the for the Tribunal to continue its proceedings in the above-named case. above-named case. above-named case. Given at the Tribunal of the Diocese of San Angelo Given at the Tribunal of the Diocese of San Angelo Given at the Tribunal of the Diocese of San Angelo on the 31st day of December 2009. on the 31st day of December 2009. on the 31st day of December 2009.

Reverend Tom Barley, MSW, MBA, M. Div.,JCL Reverend Tom Barley, MSW, MBA, M. Div.,JCL Reverend Tom Barley, MSW, MBA, M. Div.,JCL Judical Vicar Judical Vicar Judical Vicar

EDICTAL SUMMONS EDICTAL SUMMONS EDICTAL SUMMONS December 14, 2009 December 14, 2009 December 14, 2009 CASE: HENRY - JONES CASE: HENRY (JONES) - LUCAS CASE: HENRY (JONES) - SCHULZE NO.: SO 09/16 NO.: SO 09/14 NO.: SO 09/15 The Tribunal Office of the Catholic Diocese of San The Tribunal Office of the Catholic Diocese of San The Tribunal Office of the Catholic Diocese of San Angelo is seeking Danny Jones. Angelo is seeking Michael Lucas. Angelo is seeking Terry Lee Schulze. You are hereby summoned to appear before the You are hereby summoned to appear before the You are hereby summoned to appear before the Tribunal of the Catholic Diocese of San Angelo, at 804 Tribunal of the Catholic Diocese of San Angelo, at 804 Tribunal of the Catholic Diocese of San Angelo, at 804 Ford Street, San Angelo, Texas 76905, on or before the Ford Street, San Angelo, Texas 76905, on or before the Ford Street, San Angelo, Texas 76905, on or before the 31st day of January 2010, to answer to the Petition of 31st day of January 2010, to answer to the Petition of 31st day of January 2010, to answer to the Petition of Melissa Ann Henry, now introduced before the Melissa Ann Henry (Jones), now introduced before the Melissa Ann Henry (Jones), now introduced before the Diocesan Tribunal in an action styled, “Melissa Jones Diocesan Tribunal in an action styled, “Melissa Jones Diocesan Tribunal in an action styled, “Melissa Jones and Danny Jones, Petition for Declaration of Invalidity and Michael Lucas, Petition for Declaration of Invalidity and Terry Lee Schulze, Petition for Declaration of of Marriage.” Said Petition is identified as Case: of Marriage.” Said Petition is identified as Case: Invalidity of Marriage.” Said Petition is identified as HENRY - JONES; Protocol No.: SO 09/16, on the HENRY (JONES)--LUCAS; Protocol No.: SO 09/14, on Case: HENRY (JONES) - SCHULZE; Protocol No.: SO Tribunal Docket of the Diocese of San Angelo. the Tribunal Docket of the Diocese of San Angelo. 09/15, on the Tribunal Docket of the Diocese of San You may communicate with the Tribunal in person or You may communicate with the Tribunal in person or Angelo. in writing. Failure to communicate within the prescribed in writing. Failure zto communicate within the pre- You may communicate with the Tribunal in person or period of time will be considered your consent for the scribed period of time will be considered your consent in writing. Failure to communicate within the prescribed Tribunal to continue its proceedings in the above- for the Tribunal to continue its proceedings in the period of time will be considered your consent for the named case. above-named case. Tribunal to continue its proceedings in the above- Given at the Tribunal of the Diocese of San Angelo on Given at the Tribunal of the Diocese of San Angelo named case. the 31st day of December 2009. on the 31st day of December 2009. Given at the Tribunal of the Diocese of San Angelo on the 31st day of December 2009.

Reverend Tom Barley, MSW, MBA, M. Div., JCL Reverend Tom Barley, MSW, MBA, M. Div.,JCL Reverend Tom Barley, MSW, MBA, M. Div., JCL Judical Vicar Judical Vicar Judical Vicar The Angelus JANUARY 2010 Page 21 MARRIAGE: Diocese stressing importance of marriage, family life

(From 1) encouraged by Bishop Pfeifer to grow with- For this reason, it is not uncommon for in the Diocese of San Angelo. With priests to attend a Weekend along with mar- Bishop Pfeifer’s direction for growth of ried couples. We believe priests deserve this couple and generates the capacity to be Marriage Encounter opportunities, a West weekend “getaway” and Marriage Encounter life-giving, inspiring others to fruitful- Texas Area was designated recently by the can help with acquiring a substitute priest ness and unity WWME Organization. This area encom- while attending a weekend. The theme for World Marriage Day has passes the entire Diocese of San Angelo. In In another example of Bishop Pfeifer’s been permanently adopted as “Love one addition to this designation, a vibrant continued desire to strengthen marriages, an Another.” This phrase is the commandment group of “Encountered Couples” has afternoon Marriage Enrichment will be given us by Jesus in John 13:34. It formed in Midland and, most recently, in offered in San Angelo at Christ the King speaks to us in a simple and challenging San Angelo…with plans to develop more Retreat Center on May 15, 2010 and will way of how God desires us to live. couple groups (circles) in many cities and include Mass and dinner. Pastors and vol- Loving one another is a daily choice – towns throughout the Diocese. With their unteers desiring to offer this and other simple and challenging. enthusiastic support, these couples have forms of support for married couples are Worldwide Marriage Encounter seeks to promoted Marriage Encounter Weekends in invited to contact Tom and Jeanie Van accomplish this goal through its mission a variety of parishes. Currently, three Vranken, Area Leaders for the West Texas of renewal in the Church and continued Marriage Encounter Weekends are offered Area of Worldwide Marriage Encounter. conversion in the world. This mission is within our Diocese during the course of a They can be contacted as follows: 432- oriented to assist couples and priests to live year. The focus of a Weekend retreat is to 683-8879 or email [email protected] fully their intimate and responsible rela- assist married couple in strengthening their In the months ahead, Marriage tionships. The Catholic WWME accom- ability to communicate as well as to Encounter Weekends will be held within plishes this by providing couples and improve their ability to forgive each other our Diocese on February 26-28, 2010 at priests with a spiritual experience as well for hurts and shortcomings. For the priest, Circle Six Ranch in Stanton and on June 4-6, 2010 at Christ the King Retreat as ongoing community support as they Marriage Encounter offers this emphasis on Center in San Angelo. To register call continue to live their vocation. communication and helps foster strong 432-697-9904 or register online at Worldwide Marriage Encounter has been relationships with his parish community. www.mewesttexas.org. HUMANA

(Para 3) Católica que el no nacido es humano y de la gracia de Dios y pierden que el origen de la vida está en nuestras merece el amor y respeto de sus padres, participación completa en la vida de la manos. Pero no han de minimizar los la concepción los padres comparten en lo especialmente la madre. Para aclarecer, Iglesia Católica. Esto significa que no han escenarios que retan nuestro futuro, los que se llama pro-creación, y que Dios es necesitamos indicar que las enseñanzas de de recibir la Santa Comunión y puedan nuevos y potentes instrumentos que la el tercer partido importante en cada acto de la Iglesia Católica, desde su inicio, incurrir en lo que se llama excomunión. “cultura de la muerte” tiene a su concepción. La madre, ni los padres de yéndonos hacia atrás, por lo menos al año Tocante lo malvado del aborto y el abuso disposición.” familia, no son libres ante los ojos de 90 A.D., en el libro de Didache, se han de la vida humana para investigación, La vida humana, especialmente en su Dios de hacer la decisión de matar al no enseñado que toda vida humana es sagrada comparto con ustedes unas citas de las principio, está siendo amenazada más y nacido, y los que están contemplando el desde su principio y el aborto, el matar más últimas enseñanzas de nuestro Santo más por los proyectos inmorales de aborto han de sentarse en oración y directamente al no nacido, es siempre Padre, Papa Benedicto XVI en su encíclica investigaciones y por la legislación al recordar que el gran tercer partido en la intrínsicamente malo. Lo malo nunca se llena de sabiduría, C aridad en Verdad nivel más alto de nuestra nación. Al concepción es Dios quien da el alma al puede justificar. También necesitamos (Caritas in Veritate), “A la plaga difusa, escribirse este artículo, el Senado de los pequeño no nacido. ¿Qué tiene que decir declarar claramente que si los que efectúan trágica, del aborto, podríamos añadir en el Estados Unidos aprobó la meta del grupo Dios acerca del aborto? Esta es la pregunta el aborto, o los que libremente cooperan futuro, una sistemática planificación de presión para incluir el aborto en el plan principal. con esta acción mortal y son eugenésica de nacimiento…Detrás de estos de salud e incluir fondos federales para Muchos pasajes de la Santa Escritura son completamente conscientes del objetivo escenarios hay planteamientos culturales destruir a los no nacidos. Yo fuertemente la fundación para la constante e malvado de lo que hacen, son culpables de que niegan la dignidad humana.” Luego estoy de acuerdo con la declaración por el inquebrantable enseñanza de la Iglesia un pecado grave y así mismos se separan en esa carta encíclica estimulante, el Papa Cardenal George, O.M.I., presidente de la también dice, “La cuestión social se ha Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de los DALY: Never lose heart in tough times convertido radicalmente en una cuestión Estados Unidos, quien llamó esta decisión (From 15) ies. antropológica, en el sentido de que implica del Senado “un error grave y un golpe Also, we have to use technology no sólo el modo mismo de concebir, sino serio a la reforma de cuidado genuino de también de cómo se manipula la vida salud. El Senado está ignorando la Above all, we need to see that reli- more. Catholic learning is moving como por bio-tecnológica. Cada día la promesa hecha por el Presidente Obama y gious education is not just for children. It online. We should use CDs in our cars vida humana se pone más bajo el control la voluntad de los americanos en fallar de is lifelong learning. and iPods on our treadmills. We shouldn't del hombre por la fecundación in vitro, la incorporar las prohibiciones de fondos Every sizeable parish should have miss this revolution in learning. investigación con embriones, la federales para el aborto y planes que some adult religious education. This Despite the school closures, we should posibilidad de la clonación y del hibrido incluyen aborto. La gran falla de excluir would help the young parents who are not lose heart. humano. Todo esto nace y se promueve en los fondos para el aborto convertirá aliados trying to answer their children's questions Jesus told us he would be with us la cultura actual desilusionada, que cree and older adults who want more than until the end. That's good company. haber dominado cualquier misterio, puesto (Mira OBISPO/23) childhood explanations for life's myster- Now go teach all nations. Page 22 JANUARY 2010 The Angelus BISHOP: Critical attention given to abortion issue must not wane (From 2) ing encyclical letter, the Pope also states, that sadly there are three abortion centers in on our action. “The social question has become a radically our diocese under the care of Planned I have insisted over and over again that and purpose in this world. Those who sup- anthropological question, in the sense that it Parenthood that are regularly destroying the much more attention and action needs to be port abortion and wrongfully say it is the concerns not just how life is conceived, but life of the unborn. Planned Parenthood in given to the critical abortion issue by our right of the mother or parents to choose, for- how it is manipulated as bio-technology Midland does surgical abortions. Planned priests, deacons, women religious, pastoral get an essential fact that at conception the places it increasingly under man’s control. Parenthood in both San Angelo and Abilene leaders, members of ACTS, Cursillistas, parents share in what is called pro-creation, In-vitro fertilization, embryo research, the do “medication abortions”, which are pro- Guadalupanas, all Catholic groups, and espe- and that God is the important third party in possibility of manufacturing clones and duced by using the deadly and controversial cially by all Knights of Columbus. Much every act of conception. A mother, nor par- human hybrids: all this is emerging and RU-486 drug. This drug is designed to kill, more must be done in a proactive way to ents, are not free in the eyes of God to make being promoted in today’s highly disillusion and not heal or cure as all medicine should, address this critical issue. Yes, I am grateful the decision to kill the unborn, and those culture, which believes it has mastered every and very often causes the woman using it for the efforts that are being made to over- contemplating abortion should sit in prayer mystery, because the origin of life is now in very serious health problems. come abortion at the abortion centers in our and remember that the great third party in our grasp. We must never underestimate the I call on all the people of our diocese to diocese, and for the prayers that are offered in conception is God who gives the soul to the disturbing scenarios that threaten our future, be much more proactive in confronting the front of these centers. However, we do not little unborn. What does God have to say or the powerful new instruments that the evil that is being done at these Planned have the number of people praying in front about abortion? This is the primary ques- cultural death has at its disposal.” Parenthood centers. We must remember that of these death centers that we should have tion. Human life, especially at its very begin- Planned Parenthood is a huge business and a when we take into account the large number Many passages of sacred scripture are the ning, is being threatened more and more by major part of this business is the killing of of Catholics in these cities. We need much foundation for the constant and unbroken immoral research projects and by legislation unborn children. Planned Parenthood aborted more preaching and teaching, we need to teaching of the Catholic Church that the at the highest level in our country. As this 290,000 babies in 2007. The Planned have more days of prayer in front of these unborn is human and deserves the love and article was being written, the U.S. Senate Parenthood Federation of America is the sin- centers, we need to have the pro-life inten- respect of their parents, especially the moth- endorsed the abortion lobby’s goal of main- gle largest abortion provider in the U.S., and tion prayed in all of our weekend masses, er. To make it clear, we need to point out streaming abortion as health care and paying does this with the help of over $336 million we need to write many more letters to the that the teaching of the Catholic Church, for abortion with our tax dollars. I strongly in tax funding. editor of our local papers about the evil of from its very beginning, going back to at concur with the statement of Cardinal All need to know, and make it clear to all abortion, we need to have many more peo- least the year 90 A.D. in the book of George, O.M.I., President of the United people, that Planned Parenthood still bases ple taking part in the pro-life committees, Didache, has taught that all human life is States Conference of Catholic Bishops, who its philosophy and principles on its founder, and we need to be much more pro-active in sacred from its very beginning and that abor- called the decision of the Senate “a grave Margaret Sanger, a racist, who called communicating with all of our elected offi- tion, the direct killing of the unborn, is mistake and a serious blow to genuine Christianity “parasitic”, and looked forward cials about the evil of abortion. always intrinsically evil. Evil can never be health care reform. The Senate is ignoring to the day when humanity would be freed In the first chapter of the first book of the justified. We also need to state clearly that if the promise made by President Obama and from its tyranny. Margaret Sanger’s princi- Bible, Genesis, we read that human life is those who perform an abortion, or those the will of the American people in failing to ple espoused by Planned Parenthood goes made in the very image and likeness of God. who willingly cooperate in this deadly incorporate longstanding prohibitions on fed- directly against the gospel teaching of Jesus This beautiful divine teaching should be action and are fully aware of the objective eral funding for abortion and plans that Christ, and can in no way be defended by what inspires us to be much more pro-active evil of what they do, they are guilty of a include abortion. Failure to exclude abortion any biblical reference. I point out to all, in the defense of the unborn and to speak grave sin and thereby separate themselves funding will turn allies into adversaries and especially single women, who are faced with out against the abuse of all human life at all from God’s grace and from full participation require us and other to oppose this (health) the critical abortion decision that other life stages of life. The sanctity of life is written in the life of the Catholic Church. This bill because it abandons both principle and options are provided for women and parents in the hearts of all men and women. We means they should not receive Holy precedent.” In the Senate legislative proposal in San Angelo, Midland and Abilene must constantly come together to aspire to Communion and they can incur what is approved shortly before Christmas, federal through pregnancy centers and all of our build a society that rejects the culture of called an ex-communication. funds will help subsidize, and in some cases Catholic churches. death, and promotes a culture of life, in As regards the evil of abortion and the a federal agency will facilitate and promote, My brother and sisters in Christ, as your which every child, born and unborn, is abuse of human life in research, I share with health plans that cover elective abortions. bishop, I state clearly as I have done very respected and loved, and protected by laws. you some quotes from the latest teaching of All purchasers of such plans will be required often in my preaching and writing that the In closing, we need to pray often the short, our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI in his to pay for other people’s abortions in a very #1 moral and pastoral issue in Midland, San powerful prayer of Pope John Paul II, “God, wisdom-filled encyclical, Charity in Truth direct and explicit way! In the Senate bill, Angelo and Abilene is the issue of abortions give us the grace—when the sacredness of (Caritas in Veritate), “To the tragic and wide- many immigrant families would be unable that are performed by Planned Parenthood at life before birth is attacked, to stand and pro- spread scourge of abortion, we may well to receive primary care and be compelled to these death centers. After what we do in claim that no one ever has the authority to have to add in the future the systematic rely on emergency room care. church, by celebrating Eucharist, then the #1 destroy unborn life.” Pope John Paul also eugenic programming of birth…underlying It is one thing to talk globally about abor- priority must be to address this issue which pointed out, “Abortion—is the most unjust these scenarios are cultural viewpoints that tion but the more important thing is to look is a life and death issue. The lives of our execution.” deny human dignity.” Then in that challeng- locally at our own diocese and to recognize precious unborn sisters and brothers depend CATOIR: One good resolution you can make -- and keep -- this year (From 15) remained in the battle after he denied Christ his desire to make amends would be taken sleep at night. Be still and know that God three times. care of automatically. is within you. Find your inner spirit, the ple of misses. Turn to the Lord for help The tradition is that he went to Mary in If you want to make a worthwhile reso- place where the Holy Spirit resides. and swing again; you may hit a home run. tears, asking her help. She consoled him lution for the coming new year, one that Two minutes, that's all, because the The purpose of making a resolution is and convinced him to carry on with you can easily keep, why not decide to kingdom of God is within you. not so much to test your strength as it is courage. She probably told him to perse- enter into silence and solitude once a day Happy New Year! to keep you in the good fight. St. Peter vere in his good intentions. In this way, for two minutes, just before you go to The Angelus JANUARY 2010 Page 23 OBISPO

(Para 21) Parenthood es el proveedor más grande de hacemos en la iglesia, el celebrar de la malvado de aborto, necesitamos tener más abortos en los EEUU, y hace esto con la Eucaristía, la prioridad #1 debe de ser de personas tomando parte en los comités de en adversarios y requiere que nosotros y ayuda de más de $336 millones fondos de enfrentar este asunto que significa vida o pro-vida, y necesitamos ser mucho más otros a oponer a esta ley (de salud) porque impuestos. muerte. Las vidas de nuestros preciosos activos en comunicar a todos nuestros abandona ambos, principio y precedente.” Todos debemos saber, y hacer claro a todo hermanos y hermanas no nacidos dependen oficiales elegidos acerca del malvado del Es una cosa hablar globalmente acerca de el mundo, que Planned Parenthood aún de nuestra acción. aborto. aborto pero la cosa mas importante es de basa su filosofía y principios en su He insistido vez tras vez que mucha mas En el primer capitulo del primer libro de ver localmente a nuestra propia diócesis y fundadora, Margaret Sanger, una racista, atención y acción debe ser dada al asunto la Biblia, Génesis, leemos que toda vida reconocer que tristemente hay tres centros quien llamó a la cristiandad un “parásito”, critico del aborto por nuestros párrocos, humana es hecha en la misma imagen y de aborto en nuestra diócesis bajo el cargo y miraba hacía el día cuando la humanidad diáconos, religiosas, lideres pastorales, semejanza a Dios. Esta hermosa de Planned Parenthood que regularmente sería liberada de su tiranía. El principio de miembros de ACTS, Cursillistas, enseñanza divina debería ser lo que nos destruyen la vida del no nacido. Planned Margaret Sanger, abrazado por Planned Guadalupanas, todos los grupos Católicos, inspira a ser más proactivos en la defensa Parenthood en Midland hace abortos quirúrgicos. Planned Parenthood, en Parenthood, va directamente en contra de y especialmente los Caballeros de Colón. del no nacido, y hablar en contra del abuso ambos San Angelo y Abilene hace la enseñanza evangélica de Cristo Jesús, y Mucho más debe de hacerse en una manera de la vida en cualquier etapa. La santidad “abortos de medicación”, que son de ninguna manera puede ser defendida por proactiva para tratar con este asunto de la vida está escrita en los corazones de producidos por medio del uso de la droga alguna referencia bíblica. Recalco a todos, crítico. Sí, estoy muy agradecido por los todo hombre y mujer. Debemos controversial y mortal, la RU-486. Esta especialmente a las mujeres solteras, que esfuerzos que se están haciendo para constantemente aspirar unidos a crear una droga es diseñada para matar, y no para se enfrentan con la critica decisión de terminar el aborto en los centros de aborto sociedad que rechaza la cultura de muerte, sanar y curar como toda medicina debería, aborto que hay otras opciones de vida en nuestra diócesis, y por las oraciones y promueve la cultura de vida, en que cada y muy a menudo le causa a la mujer proveídas para mujeres y padres de familia que se ofrecen en frente de estos centros. niño, nacido o no nacido, es respetado y usándola problemas muy serios de salud. en San Angelo, Midland y Abilene por Sin embargo, no tenemos el número de amado, y protegido por leyes. Llamo a todas personas de nuestra diócesis medio de centros de embarazo y todas personas rezando en frente de estos centros En conclusión, necesitamos rezar a que tomen mucha mas iniciativa de nuestras iglesias católicas. que deberíamos de tener cuando tomamos menudo la corta, poderosa oración de Papa enfrentar este malvado que se lleva a cabo Mis hermanos y hermanas en Cristo, en cuenta el gran numero de católicos en Juan Pablo II, “Señor, danos la gracia— en estos centros de Planned Parenthood. como su obispo, declaro claramente, estas ciudades. Necesitamos más cuando la santidad de vida antes de nacer Debemos recordar que Planned Parenthood como lo he hecho regularmente en mi predicación y enseñanza, necesitamos más sea atacada, de ponernos de pie y es un negocio muy grande y una parte predicar y escritos, que el asunto moral y días de oración en frente de estos centros, proclamar que nadie, nunca tiene la mayor de este negocio es la matanza de pastoral #1 en Midland, San Angelo y necesitamos tener la intención de pro-vida autoridad de destruir una vida no nacida. ” pequeños no nacidos. Planned Parenthood Abilene es el asunto del aborto que se rezada en todas las misas de fin de semana, Papa Juan Pablo también recalcó, abortó 290,000 niños en 2007. La lleva a cabo por Planned Parenthood en necesitamos escribir más cartas al editor “Aborto—la ejecución más injusta.” Federación Americana de Planned sus centros de muerte. Después de lo que de los periódicos locales acerca del PADRE THAD

(Para 10) perciban a sí mismas como “una carga” muchas veces, es probable que detrás de la con nuestras vidas, por el contrario, es para los demás, de manera que el que pidan pérdida de su ser querido los familiares y estar abiertos a recibir la ayuda amorosa de El que un paciente esté considerando o la eutanasia puede indicar que les preocupa allegados queden con un sentimiento de otras personas y aceptar la parte de pidiendo la eutanasia puede ser un indicador estar “imponiéndose” sobre la familia o transgresión o traición. sufrimiento que pueda presentarse en de que son otras sus preocupaciones o allegados. Pero analizándolo, por supuesto De igual manera, es común que este nuestro camino, humanizando así –no temores. El Dr. Teno y el Dr. Lynn, que todos tenemos el derecho a ser una mismo sentimiento de traición esté satanizando– nuestra fragilidad, enfermedad médicos de pacientes terminales, lo carga para otros. Cuando éramos bebés, presente cuando la eutanasia voluntaria o edad avanzada. Procurarnos unos a otros expresan así: niños, y especialmente adolescentes, llega a una familia. Los parientes tomados al final de la vida en nuestros momentos de “Los pacientes de primer ingreso en fuimos “cargas” para nuestros padres. Esto por sorpresa quizá se culpen por no haber temor, soledad y sufrimiento, enaltece ese cuidados paliativos frecuentemente quieren nos permite ver cómo la idea misma de puesto atención; a otros les será difícil importante pasaje que cada uno de nosotros ‘terminar con todo’. En primera instancia familia está enraizada en la noción de las racionalizar el hecho y tratarán de debe recorrer y donde la muerte llega en el esto puede parecer una solicitud de cargas mutuas compartidas entre los acomodarlo lo mejor que pueden: “Mamá momento providencial de Dios como una eutanasia activa, sin embargo muchas integrantes de la familia. Estamos frente tomó el asunto por su cuenta y encontró culminación de Su obra en nosotros. veces es una manifestación de su miedo al al verdadero reto de construir una cultura de quien le ayudara a resolverlo”, o “sus dolor, al sufrimiento y al aislamiento, o a la familia aun más fuerte (incluyendo la amigos le ayudaron en ese difícil trance y El Padre Tadeusz Pacholczyk hizo su una agonía prolongada por la tecnología. cultura de la atención médica) que le hicieron fácil decir adiós en sus propios doctorado en neurociencias en la Por otra parte, estas peticiones quizá sean promueva este apoyo mutuo. términos”. Univ ersidad de Y ale y su trabajo post- intentos del paciente por ver si en realidad Quienes se suicidan cortan de tajo con el En resumen, la eutanasia y el suicidio doctoral en la Univ ersidad de Harv ard. Es a alguien le preocupa si vive o muere. apoyo y la unidad familiar. Estas personas asistido no son más que formas de hacer Sacerdote para la Diócesis de Fall River, Cumplir estos deseos con aceptación y quizá supongan que nadie resultará corto circuito a nuestras interrelaciones e Massachusetts, y se desempeña como prontitud puede resultar desastroso para el particularmente lastimado o afectado interconexiones humanas; Director de Educación en el Centro paciente pues lo interpreta como la excepto ellas mismas, sin embargo, fundamentalmente actos de violencia que Nacional Católico de Bioética en confirmación de que no vale nada”. típicamente lo que sucede es lo contrario. más que ayudar lastiman. Estas decisiones Philadelphia. The National Catholic Es posible también que las personas en Aun y cuando el suicidio esté asociado a dejan una sombra muy obscura sobre la Bioethics Center: www.ncbcenter.org condiciones de fragilidad o edad avanzada se alguna enfermedad mental, como sucede vida que ha sido terminada. Acabar bien Traducción: M aría Elena R odríguez. Page 24 JANUARY 2010 The Angelus

The West Texas Angelus Official Newspaper of the Dioce-Scenes Diocese of San Angelo, Texas POSTMASTER: Send all address changes to: Big Spring WEST TEXAS ANGELUS P.O. Box 1829 SAN ANGELO, TX 76902-1829 Msgr. Bernard Gully, at left in photo at left, and Fr. ______Ariel Lagunilla celebrate the Eucharist during a Mass to celebrate the purchase of land for a new church for the Holy Trinity Parish in Big Spring. Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI Below, and below left, additional scenes from the Publisher ceremony.

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Submissions: Story suggestions, calendar items, parish briefs and all other submissions should be emailed to [email protected]. WTOS members celebrate work in West Texas COPY, PHOTO DEADLINE: Third Friday of every month. By Deborah Micalewicz public meetings, issues engagement, and edu- new rent-to-own apartments in one of the tar- cation to name a few areas of work. geted neighborhoods. Photos should be in jpeg format. West Texas Organizing Strategy (WTOS) At the Accountability Session candidates The third big celebration took place at the has been on the move in a very public way explained how, if elected, they would work to Blackshear Boys and Girls Club in San Letters to the editor are welcome, lately. Member churches, of which St. support the WTOS Agenda – which is quite a Angelo on November 19 where the public and should be emailed to Therese in Carlsbad and St. Mary in San change from what candidates usually do when gathered over a delicious lunch provided by all [email protected]. Angelo are members, held an Accountability given a public platform. However, WTOS is the member churches and to view a presenta- Letters to the editor are printed at Session on Sunday, October 18 where all different. The Accountability Session took tion of recent and exciting neighborhood the discretion of the editor and seven San Angelo Mayoral candidates pledged place in a church sanctuary. WTOS principals development, including the only platinum identities of the writer are subject support to the long-standing WTOS Agenda. are based on Biblical principals of justice and LEEDS (Leader in Energy & Environment equity for all God’s people -- especially those Design) home in the State of Texas. The cel- to verification. Please include The Tom Green County Agenda, the result of 64 neighborhood and faith community marginalized and stricken by poverty. ebration continued with a bus tour facilitated name, address and phone number meetings, advocates for neighborhood revital- The second big public event took place on by the City of San Angelo Development when submitting letters. ization; diversity; living wages; equity in edu- November 10 as WTOS was publicly hon- Services Department through the four targeted cation; comprehensive infrastructure for all of ored, for the third year in a row, by the City neighborhoods to see firsthand the revitaliza- Tom Green County; integrity in our justice of San Angelo for its work in neighborhood tion and work accomplished by partnership system; equity in health, safety and civil revitalization. WTOS has facilitated relation- and relationship and to encourage more. rights; and fair water plans. Member churches ships and partnerships among the develop- Membership is open to all churches. FMI organize their faith communities to encourage ment community resulting most recently in a contact Beatris Vega at [email protected] . voter registration, informed participation at federal grant which will fund creation of 20