BRINGING THE GOOD NEWS TO THE DIOCESE OF FORT WORTH
Model of Virtue YEAR OF ST. JOSEPH
MARCH — APRIL 2021 VOL. 37 | NO. 2 2 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g Bishop Michael F. Olson, STD, MA
BISHOP MICHAEL OLSON is the fourth bishop of the THE PURPOSE Catholic Diocese of Fort Worth. OF A FUNERAL @BpOlsonFW
hen a person dies, a void is left in the lives of their whom may not be Catholic or may have moved away from the families and friends. The Church responds to those practice of their faith. The most advisable response to families W grieving at the death of their loved one with the suffering grief is to meet with them in preparing the vigil and liturgical actions and words provided through the celebration of funeral liturgy. It is necessary for homilists to listen to the story of a vigil service, the funeral Mass, and the prayers of committal of the deceased person as recounted by their surviving loved ones. the person’s body at the graveside. Grief is a time for presence, and the preparation for the These three liturgical moments call to mind the suffering, funeral liturgy and accompanying rites of the vigil and the death, and Resurrection of Jesus and their saving effects upon graveside is an opportunity for such presence. In listening to such the life of the deceased and upon all of us who remain. These stories, a homilist can and should consider what he hears from the ritual moments prescribe how Catholics go about grieving with mourners and suggest readings from Sacred Scripture that are hope in the Resurrection. Each of these moments have their own appropriate and manifest the mystery of salvation as that mystery propriety and purpose. While death and the grief surrounding manifested itself throughout the life and events of the deceased death are not unique to Catholics, the ritualized and liturgical person. This is a very consoling way to speak about the person’s transition from death to life is particular to Catholic theology and life and achievements but with a focus on the action of Christ spirituality. Eulogies are one such difference. present to them. Without this pastoral presence of the homilist, The General Introduction to the Order of Christian Funerals is clear the pastoral responsibility to console the mourners would be that at the funeral liturgy, a priest or deacon is to offer a homily, neglected. “but there is never to be a eulogy.” A eulogy is understood to be a The homily by the priest or deacon is too important an aspect narrative of some length detailing the achievements and qualities of the healing ministry to the bereaved for it to be substituted or of the deceased person and the emotional effects of their death accompanied by a video or a eulogy offered by a mourner who upon their surviving friends and relatives. is emotionally vulnerable, and especially one who has had scant If eulogies are to be given, the appropriate place for them is at opportunity of speaking appropriately in the setting of the liturgy the vigil service. Remarks made in the context of a eulogy should at a most sensitive time of transition. The result too frequently also be appropriate to the better qualities of the deceased person is distraction from the mystery of hope in the Resurrection and in accord with a Christian life and not glorify past misdeeds prayers for the repose of the soul of the deceased person inherent or sins — even if these are not viewed as such by the eulogist. in the funeral liturgy intended by the Church for the healing of Inappropriate jokes made by a eulogist do not truly console but those gathered for this purpose. only distract for a moment from the reality of death and the hope It is true that the time of grief at the death of a loved one may of the Resurrection. The vigil is the setting where we console a not be a teachable moment, but I observe that it is a moment of person’s loved ones with memories of the person and recall events evangelization whereby the consoling presence of the Church in his or her life lived and now ended in death. accompanies the mourners into the mystery of salvation won for This presents a pastoral challenge for priests, deacons, and us by Christ who never forgets the promises He has made at the pastoral ministers in responding to surviving loved ones, many of Baptism of the members of His flock.
Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 3 IN THIS ISSUE March - April 2021
16 LIFT STUDENTS UP Cassata offers individualized in- struction to high school students.
24 DIVINE MERCY One woman’s devotion to Divine Mercy spreads across the diocese.
28 40 DAYS OF LENT The pandemic feels like a long Lent, but Lent draws us closer to God.
32 VACCINE MYTHS Q & A with medical and ethical experts busts some vaccine myths.
44 FULL OF GRACE An unexpected path leads Omar 36 Montemayor to Notre Dame. FATHER FIGURE In the year of St. Joseph, we look at his roles of protector and provider ON THE COVER St. Joseph at Holy Redeemer Parish (NTC/Juan Guajardo)
FOLLOW US ONLINE Visit NorthTexasCatholic.org for photo galleries, videos, the digital version of the magazine, and web- only articles.
HAVE A STORY IDEA? Share it with us! Help us make sure your parish community is seen in the NTC online, in print, or on our quickly growing social media accounts. Submit your ideas and briefs to: [email protected]. 12 WINTER BLAST 20 DOWN SYNDROME
4 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g FROM THE EDITOR
An Exercise in Trust
e had just finished breakfast when our power went out. Four hours passed before my wife and Wdaughters started getting cold and we realized this wasn’t a rolling blackout. My parents, who have gas appliances and didn’t lose power out in the country, took us in for five days while we waited for power, then water, then clean water to be restored at our home. We had it easy. Winter Storm Uri jeopardized the basic needs — shelter, warmth, food, and water — of millions of people. I saw accounts of people going without electricity for five days and then returning to homes destroyed by water damage from burst pipes. Across the border from Brownsville, asylum seekers were brutalized by the icy temperatures. Children cried from the pain, according to Publisher Bishop Michael Olson eyewitness accounts. communications Director Pat Svacina Our natural response to this suffering was fear. We also felt the loss of control over our lives. In a Editor Juan Guajardo matter of hours, we were reduced to recognizing that associate Editor susan Moses we’re “merely players” on the world’s broad stage, as Shakespeare once put it. The storm was a bitter reminder editorial Assistant rosa Rosales that we aren’t the directors. And that too can be scary. Web Designer chris Kastner Fear can help protect us from danger, but it can limit our response to God’s love when it leads us to mistrust Circulation Debbie Dowis Him. That’s why God is constantly encouraging us to social Media Manager annette Mendoza-Smith depend on Him (Matthew 6:25-34) and tells us “do not fear” countless times in Scripture. Thankfully, God doesn’t turn His back on us — even Contributors Jenara Kocks Burgess those of us who don’t trust. Despite my mistrust that week, Jerry Circelli | Jayme Donahue sandra Engelland | Joan Gillen God helped me see the flip side of not having control: that tony Gutierrez | Kiki Hayden trustingly handing the wheel to God is actually a good Lance Murray | Rodger Mallison thing! Susan McFarland | Kenneth Munyer Think about it. The people who acted with trust in violeta Rocha | Alex Rosales our loving God knew that He had their backs and they Michael Sherman | Mary Lou Seewoester were able to rise up and meet the challenges of that week Matthew Smith | Ben Torres with generosity and selflessness. Trust conquered their fear and enabled love. For example, when the Fort Worth Convention Center opened up as a warming center, more Translator yolanda Newcomb than a few homeless people stepped up as volunteers, regular Columnists Jeff Hedglen | Ali Hoffman handing out coffee, bottled water, and warm blankets to the Fr. Matthew Tatyrek | Callie Nowlin families coming in. Neighbors with electricity or generators Fr. Tad Pacholczyk | Sean Wright opened their doors to neighbors in dark, frigid houses. In Brownsville, people responded by delivering sleeping bags, Editorial Office: 800 West Loop 820 S., Fort Worth, Texas 76108, blankets, gloves, and hot water bottles to the asylees. 817-945-9424. How many times does God say in Scripture that He is NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC Magazine (USPS 751-370) (ISSN 0899-7020) with us, sees our suffering, and fights for us? Yet, when the is published bi-monthly by the Most Rev. Michael F. Olson, Bishop of the going gets tough, do we really believe Him? If your answer Diocese of Fort Worth. For those who are not registered parishioners in the Diocese of Fort Worth, subscription rates are $18 for one year, $35 for is ‘no,’ take a breath, close your eyes, and meditate on all two years, $50 for three years. Periodicals postage paid at Fort Worth, the little ways (and big ways) He blesses you. Take it from TX. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to North Texas Catholic, 800 me, why live in fear when you can trust? And when you can W. Loop 820 S., Fort Worth, Texas 76108. trust, you can love. The appearance of advertising in these pages does not imply endorsement of businesses, services, or products. Readers must exercise prudence in responding to advertising in all media. For address changes, please contact Debbie Dowis, 817-533-3172. Juan Guajardo, Editor Renée Underwood., left, and Kristy Webb (NTC/Juan Guajardo) AROUND THE DIOCESE THE AROUND
Two women leave corporate world to serve the Church
FORT WORTH — Looking learning facilities improve Young men invited to to use their passion and their operations and market- skills in serving God, two ing. In March of 2018, she Lenten discernment women left busy corporate gave that up and was excited careers that helped prepare to have time to volunteer FORT WORTH — High because in this season of them for new roles in the at Holy Trinity Catholic school and college-aged repentance and conver- Advancement Foundation School in Grapevine, where men are invited to a series sion we “put our focus for the Diocese of Fort son Luke is now a sixth of Lenten discernment on God more intently, so Worth. grader. Her son Philip has nights which will begin it’s a great opportunity Renée Underwood has Down syndrome and attends with a Holy Hour at 6 for men to come to these been promoted to Chief Colleyville Middle School. p.m. followed by a free discernment nights and to Development Officer. She She started developing dinner and discussion on pray together and to allow came to the diocese in 2017 new school fundraising prayer, seminary life, and the Lord to speak to them as associate director of the events and increasing their the priesthood. in their hearts.” Advancement Foundation. contributions on the North One or more priests Fr. Moon, who was She worked in a similar role Texas Giving Day. will attend, along with ordained to the priest- for the Lubbock diocese. In the fall of 2020, two seminarians, and will hood in 2018, continued, Before going to work Underwood and be available for questions “God will give us many for the Church, she had a Advancement Foundation and conversation. graces during Lent — this lengthy career in advertising President Clint Weber asked The discernment eve- is a great opportunity to and marketing, working her Webb to take on a new po- nings are from 6 - 8 p.m. receive any graces to help way up to vice president sition: Director of Catholic at St. Patrick Cathedral figure out what He wants of marketing for two large School Development for the on these Thursday eve- of us in our lives.” companies. diocese. nings during Lent: Young men are wel- Kristy Webb wasn’t “There are a lot of great • March 4 come to attend as many looking for a full-time job in things happening in the dio- • March 11 evenings as they are able, the Diocese of Fort Worth cese and in our schools,” she • March 18 as the discussion topics after leaving a busy corpo- said. “I want to help provide Father Maurice will vary. To RSVP, email rate career to stay home with more avenues of funding, Moon, chaplain of Nolan [email protected] her twin sons. The job came and also entice more families Catholic High School or call 817-945-9321. looking for her. to participate in an outstand- and a vocations liaison, Older men may con- Webb spent 22 years ing Catholic education.” said Lent is an appropri- tact the vocations office for traveling around the country ate time for discernment individual conversation. to help childcare and early – Sandra Engelland
6 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g Laura Pinachio and her sons at this year’s Respect Life Mass at St. Patrick Cathedral. (NTC/Ben Torres)
Respect Life Week uses new means to raise awareness
KELLER — Diocese of Fort all who have been impacted Worth officials canceled last by abortion,” Schauf said. April Recognition of year’s Respect Life Mass During his homilies, out of precaution due to Bishop Olson quoted Isaiah Child Abuse Prevention the COVID-19 outbreak 49:1, the first reading of in North Texas. The Mass the Respect Life Masses, FORT WORTH — The need to understand the returned this year albeit “Before birth the Lord diocese is planning several problem, then we can help with several differences from called me from my moth- events during National prevent the problem. It’s years previous. er’s womb. He gave me my Child Abuse Prevention not an issue somewhere Most notably, 2021 saw name,” and reflected upon Month in April to lay else, it can happen any- two Respect Life Masses the value of name. the groundwork for a where, and we can all take — Jan. 16 at St. Elizabeth “To have a name is to safer community and to responsibility for prevent- Ann Seton Parish and Jan. have identity and belonging help heal those affected ing child abuse.” 23 at St. Patrick Cathedral, to a family,” Bishop Olson by child abuse. The Safe The Mass will be both celebrated by Bishop said. “To have a name is to Environment office is offered and livestreamed Michael Olson. The ad- have belonging also in the coordinating the efforts, from St. Maria Goretti dition of a second Mass, communion of the Church.” which will include an Parish in Arlington at 6 Respect Life Coordinator New this year during awareness program, a p.m. on Thursday, April Terri Schauf said, grew Respect Life Week were a prayer campaign, and a 22 for the intention of an out of concerns of ongoing daily Rosary and ministry special Mass celebrated by end to child abuse. coronavirus-related social spotlights on the Respect Bishop Michael Olson. The Safe Environment distancing requirements and Life page of the diocesan Beginning April 1, pages on the diocesan a desire to increase atten- website, fwdioc.org. posters and other aware- website (fwdioc.org) give dance options for parishio- “Each is about two min- ness information can be details on the Mass, volun- ners throughout the diocese. utes,” Schauf said. “Each found in parishes and on teer opportunities, and the “With Jan. 22 marking focuses on one of several the diocesan website and prayer campaign, as well the 48th anniversary of Roe ministries in the diocese that social media platforms. as educational materials. v. Wade, we also thought it are doing amazing things Information includes “Without this knowl- would be a beautiful way regarding respect life,” 10 ways to prevent child edge, parents and adults to surround that date with including pro-life pregnancy abuse and warning signs of may feel helpless and two Masses with the specific centers and abortion recov- human trafficking. hopeless about prevent- purpose of praying for ery ministry. Sandra Schrader- ing child abuse. But if we unborn babies lost, mothers Farry, director of Safe equip ourselves, we can be and fathers, our nation, and – Matthew Smith Environment said, “We part of the solution.”
Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 7 Front from left:
AROUND THE DIOCESE THE AROUND Mother Anne Teresa, Mother Teresa Agnes. Carmelite nuns elect Back from left: Sister Joseph Marie, Sister servant leaders Francis Therese. (courtesy photo) ARLINGTON — On in Fort Worth. In 1984, the January 8, Bishop Michael community moved into the Olson presided at the monastery on 56 acres in Dive deep into Lent on community elections at the Arlington. Carmelite Monastery in The cloistered nuns diocesan website Arlington. devote themselves to prayer, Mother Teresa Agnes of especially for priests, for FORT WORTH — If you podcasts from Father Mike Jesus Crucified was elected missions, and for the poor, are ready to grow in your Schmitz, Bishop Robert Prioress. Sister Joseph Marie unemployed, sick, suffering, spiritual life this Lent, Barron, Father Larry was elected as SubPrioress/ and hungry. They also pray you’ll find a robust selec- Richards, and others. first Councillor; Mother for the many individuals tion of resources on the Sign up for daily Anne Teresa as the sec- who call or write with spe- diocesan website, fwdioc. e-mails from Living Lent ond Councillor; and Sister cial needs and intentions. org/lent-resources. Daily for messages of hope Francis Therese as the third Their offering of praise Choose a book from and courage. Councillor. to the Lord and prayers of the list of 50 books every Explore the Mass with Like other Carmelite intercession include con- Catholic should read. 10 lessons from Dr. Scott communities, the Monastery templative prayer, daily Watch videos to ex- Hahn. of the Most Holy Trinity in Mass, and the Liturgy of pand your prayer life with The diocesan website Arlington holds a council the Hours, which they chant Rosaries, novenas, and has easy links to these every three years to elect seven times each day. litanies. resources and more. As nuns to positions of servant The Discalced Carmelite Read Bishop Michael Lent concludes, you’ll also leadership and to reflect Nuns (O.C.D.) are part of a Olson’s blog. find a handy guide to Mass on issues pertaining to the worldwide religious fami- Listen and reflect with times for the Triduum and monastery. ly dedicated to fulfilling a some of the top Catholic Easter. “We ask your prayers specialized mission of prayer. for our Council and Discalced means “shoeless,” Community during this a symbol of their vow of pov- triennium,” said Mother erty. The nuns also profess PRIEST ASSIGNMENTS Teresa Agnes of Jesus solemn vows of chastity and BY MOST REV. MICHAEL F. OLSON Crucified. obedience. The Monastery of the Carmelites trace their th Most Holy Trinity was origins to the 12 century, REV. JOSE FELICIANO TORRES, OFM Cap established more than 60 and St. Teresa of Avila re- Parochial Vicar of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish years ago in a home on the formed the Order of Carmel in Fort Worth, has been recalled by his religious bluffs of the Trinity River in 1562. order, effective December 29, 2020.
8 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g Nolan junior Sophi Munro takes a break from grooming Daisy. (NTC/Rodger Mallison)
Meet the new kid in school THERE’S Meet the animals and MORE TO their keepers. Go to (and some cute chicks, too) NorthTexasCatholic.org; SEE click on ‘Video Gallery.’
lmost everyone has met elementary/middle schools Athe new kids at Nolan participating in 4-H to date. Catholic High School. Seven The learning-by-doing pro- sewing, and robotics. rule of goat keeping: don’t feed young goats have taken up grams offered by 4-H dovetail Felton appreciates that them Cheetos. residence on the Fort Worth nicely with the school, which students can select from various In addition to proper nutri- campus and been welcomed already has a garden, worm 4-H activities, participate in an tion, exercise is key to a healthy, by students, parents, faculty, farm, bird and bat houses, and online introduction to the sub- show-worthy goat. Some and staff. The sixty chicks that two chickens. ject, then complete the activity student athletes pair with a goat arrived in late January were The St. John the Apostle at home as a family. Currently to sprint up the stadium hill, given a similar reception. campus is routinely visited by a 4-H offers 166 different home improving conditioning in both At first, the livestock may hawk, fox, and owl, plus opos- activities for families on its the two-legged and four-legged seem out of place at the college sums and raccoons. Principal website. competitors. prep school. What’s a new barn Amy Felton plans to add two “A long-term objective is Leah Rios, president of and chicken brooder doing more chickens and hatch that our families come together Nolan, sees animal husbandry among the recently built, state- turkeys in the spring, and she and enjoy doing activities as as an extension of a pro-life of-the-art facilities for engineer- would like to introduce goats a family and teaching [their viewpoint. She said, “We’re ing, broadcast technology, and to the campus. “It’s amazing children] skills they will use for taking on the responsibility to the arts? outdoor learning. We took what the rest of their lives, with God raise an animal to feed people. Nolan is partnering with God gave us, and we’re just immersed in that,” said Felton. We have to take the very best the other Catholic schools in adding to it and teaching the In its first year at Nolan care of it and make sure the life Tarrant County to offer a new, children,” Felton explained. Catholic High School, the that it has while we’re raising it hands-on opportunity to learn Although 4-H may be best 4-H club has accrued about is a good life, with exercise and about agriculture, science, art, known for agricultural pursuits, 25 students. However, the the best quality of feed.” and health through a centu- it offers students the opportu- entire student body, whether It’s a 110-pound commit- ry-old organization: 4-H. nity to learn life skills such as participating in 4-H or not, ment to tend to the goats twice St. John the Apostle healthy nutrition and financial has learned about the ethics daily, seven days a week regard- Catholic School in North literacy, as well as pursue hob- and responsibilities of raising less of weather, school sched- Richland Hills is one of five bies including jewelry making, animals on campus. The first ules, or personal situations.
Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 9 Former All Saints pastor and advocate for Catholic education, the unborn, and the Hispanic community Fr. Stephen Jasso mourned by thousands
By Joan Kurkowski-Gillen
ather Stephen Jasso, TOR, ed. “We thank God for the life and minis- parishes and the TOR community in retired pastor of All Saints try of Fr. Stephen Jasso. Please join me in leadership roles. In 1994, his order al- Catholic Church and much-re- praying for the repose of his soul.” lowed him to come to Fort Worth where spected advocate for the region’s Raised by devoutly Catholic parents, he worked at St. Thomas the Apostle for Fgrowing Hispanic population, always the late Domingo Jasso Sr. and his wife, six months before assuming the role of taught by example. When debilitating Leonor, Fr. Jasso credited time spent All Saints pastor. illness robbed his speech and mobility, with Franciscans for his spiritual growth Under his leadership, the historic there were still lessons of faith to share. and vocation to the priesthood. The or- parish flourished. The soft-spoken pastor “He always told me, ‘This is my cross der staffed St. Francis Catholic Parish in recruited religious sisters to work in to bear. Pray for me and I’ll continue to Waco where he was baptized and made parish ministries, spearheaded construc- pray for you,’” said Arica Prado, long- his first Communion and Confirmation. tion of a parish hall desperately needed time friend of the Franciscan friar and Before entering the Franciscans in 1957, for religious education classes, and raised principal of a place he loved — All Saints he served in the U.S. Army during the the profile of Hispanics in Fort Worth by Catholic School. “He was our shining Korean War, earning the rank of sergeant participating on civic boards and com- light. It was hard to see him suffer.” first class. mittees. In 2002, Fr. Jasso met with then Fr. Jasso, a tireless champion for After earning his undergraduate President George W. Bush during the immigrants, the unborn, and Catholic degree at St. Francis College in Pennsyl- Hispanic Leadership Summit. Locally, he education, died February 12 after a vania, the army veteran began seminary served on the board of United Way and three-year battle with ALS, also known studies in Majorca, Spain, and then the the Task Force on Racism. as Lou Gehrig’s disease. He was 88. University of St. Thomas Aquinas (An- Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price hon- Fort Worth Bishop Michael Olson gelicum) in Rome where he was ordained ored the faith leader’s “humble service described Fr. Jasso as a faithful Fran- to the priesthood in 1965. and active community involvement” by ciscan who watched over the people of “I spent eight years in Europe proclaiming August 7, 2018 as Father All Saints for 23 years with a shepherd’s without coming home at all,” Fr. Jasso Jasso Day in the city. care. Respected and valued by those in recalled in a 2018 North Texas Catholic in- A lifelong member of All Saints public service and government, the late terview. “But my family always supported Parish, Carlos Flores said the late pastor pastor’s influence extended beyond the what I did.” exemplified leadership through faith and confines of his parish to men and women When the newly ordained priest works. of all faiths in Fort Worth and through- arrived in Peru for his first assignment, “Even in his last days, he was an out Texas. his parents and 14 siblings purchased a inspiration for all of us,” stated the Fort “A final lesson to his flock was his motorcycle for the missionary so he could Worth City Councilman who represents witness to the human dignity and the navigate the country’s narrow, mountain District 2. “He bore his cross very well fundamental right to life by his suffering roadways. with dignity and faith.” and courageous perseverance with Lou Four years later, Fr. Jasso was sent to When the third generation Texan Gehrig’s disease,” the bishop comment- Mexico where he spent 24 years serving considered running for public office, he
10 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 10 10 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g sought the counsel of his spiritual leader and longtime friend. “I contacted and spoke with Fr. Jasso and we prayed together,” Flores recalled. “I wanted it to be an endeavor I was wholeheartedly sure of and getting his blessing was important.” The humble priest’s ability to reach out and influence community leaders helped save All Saints School from closing in the early 2000s. Faced with a dwindling enrollment and a building in disrepair, Fr. Jasso met with local business owners and parishioners to determine the school’s fate. His personal commitment to provide tuition assistance, along with pledges of support from alumni and benefactors, eased the parish school out Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price proclaimed August 7, 2018 as Fr. Jasso Day. (NTC/Ben Torres) of financial crisis. A remodeling project updated classrooms in 2010. For his service to Catholic educa- Bishop Michael Olson tion, Fr. Jasso received the University applauds Fr. of Notre Dame Sorin Award in 2013. Jasso at a Mass Accepting the honor, the friar called celebrating his Catholic schools “a gift to the country.” retirement as “I’m privileged to serve Catholic pastor on Dec. 15, 2017. (NTC/ education because I’m convinced that’s Ben Torres) what the Church and the country needs,” he said emphatically. “We need solid Catholics with a living convic- tion of the truth they have discovered through the process of a Catholic education.” Teresa Montes, a graduate of both All Saints and Nolan Catholic High School, praised Fr. Jasso’s stamina and devotion to duty. She grew up steps away from the parish, and her parents, John and Jeanette Hernandez, were close friends of the pastor. “He never sat down,” she observed. “He worked tirelessly day and night. tes said. “He always promoted the North beautiful blessing. I’d see him in my parent’s home at 10 Side community and the people who live “You can’t describe his life in a few o’clock at night having coffee.” there.” words,” he added. “He was a wonderful His arrival at All Saints in 1994 As Fr. Jasso’s health worsened, fam- example of Christ for his people.” generated record Mass attendance and ily, friends, and parishioners gathered at In one of his last media interviews, a renewed sense of pride in the Hispanic his home to offer prayers and shed tears Fr. Jasso explained how his unshakeable community. Prior to becoming ill, the as they spoke words of comfort to the faith helped him cope with a devastating pastor would don his wide-brimmed ailing priest. diagnosis. sombrero and mariachi suit to lead the “They expected his death and came “I’m carrying the cross because I Cinco de Mayo or Mexican Indepen- together with sadness and gratitude,” feel — this illness — for some reason God dence Day parade on a horse. Father Manuel Holguin explained. has permitted,” he told the Fort Worth “Fr. Jasso was very much a person The current pastor of All Saints Star-Telegram in 2018. “I will carry it as everyone called upon to ask his opinion Parish described his predecessor’s dedica- the Lord carried His cross for me. Suffer- regardless of the subject matter,” Mon- tion to the priesthood and ministry as a ing is part of everyday living.”
11 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 11 DIOCESE Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 11 The bitter cold and lack of power knocked out the boiler and froze pipes at St. Bartholomew Church in Fort Worth. (NTC/Rodger Mallison)
12 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 12 12 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g With prayer, wet/dry vacuums, and coffee, faithful Catholics reach out to help their neighbors weather the storm
By Joan Kurkowski-Gillen GOD WAS LOOKING OUT FOR ME a 1988 head-on car crash that kept him Tim Mills was already stuck in a 15 hospitalized two months, suffered only soft ears from now, when people to 20-car pile-up on Interstate 35W when tissue injuries. think back on the frigid blast he saw another tractor-trailer rounding an As first responders began helping of winter that swept across ice-slicked hill and headed his way. Bracing victims, a police officer cut off the air bag Texas in 2021, many will for another impact, the St. Rita parishio- restricting Mills and the veteran truck remember the discomfort of ner only had time to utter one brief prayer, driver called his wife. Ysitting in a dark, chilly home waiting for “Oh, God.” “He told me he was in a wreck and the lights and heat to come on. Millions “He jackknifed and landed between to turn on the TV,” Diane said, recalling were left without electricity for days after the walls [of the road] about 30 yards the scene of twisted sedans, pickups, and historic, sub-freezing temperatures crip- behind us when it finally stopped,” said 18-wheelers. “There was no getting to pled the state’s power grid. Mills, who was part of the first section of him.” “It got down to 40 degrees,” said Janet vehicles involved in the chain reaction Diane, a long-time volunteer who once Fick, whose Saginaw home went without crash. directed the youth choir at St. Ann Parish power for 55 hours. The truck’s position served as a block- in Burleson and served on the school The St. George parishioner and her ade, “and probably saved all of their lives,” boards of Our Lady of Victory, Cassata, husband, Duane, were reluctant to burn added his wife, Diane. and Nolan Catholic, immediately called wood in the fireplace because it hadn’t Sitting in his four-door pickup, Mills family and friends to ask for prayer. Those been used in 30 years. could hear the collisions behind him. people contacted other prayer chains. “We burned candles for a little heat,” “Wham, wham, wham, they just kept “We were immediately surrounded by added Fick, who checked on neighbors hitting that semi.” prayer and you could feel it,” Diane con- with text messages. “And I’d sit in my truck Six people lost their lives and dozens tinued. “God saved Tim because He knew to get warm while charging my phone.” more were injured in the February 11 how much he’s needed. I’m the one who For many, frozen pipes, cracked wells, accident that involved 133 vehicles along a goes out and does things, but he’s quietly and offline treatment plants created other mile of the North Tarrant Express Lanes in the background taking care of people.” issues — a shortage of drinkable water and near 28th Street in Fort Worth. Freezing The grandfather of two checks in on damage to homes and property caused by rain coating the pavement played a part in pipes bursting. the massive pile-up. Mills, who survived Continued on Page 14
13 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 13 DIOCESE Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 13 SAINT FRANCIS From Page 13 explained. “It runs off natural gas, maintains itself, and has saved us so VILLAGE his 86-year-old wheelchair-bound many times.” The Holy Redeemer A GATED RETIREMENT (62+) COMMUNITY mother twice a day and helps his parishioners also opened their home ON THE SHORES OF LAKE BENBROOK disabled brother. Neighbors also to other friends needing a shower or rely on him. clean clothes during the weather cri- Mills admits he doesn’t know sis. Home-cooked meals, prepared why he’s lived through two major by their neighbor, added to the car accidents. camaraderie. COME SHARE “I can’t explain it except to say “We are extremely blessed. My OUR LITTLE PIECE the good Lord was looking after husband works in the oil and gas me,” he said thoughtfully. “I know industry and as long as it stays good, OF HEAVEN my faith is stronger now than when we try to bless as many people as we I went over that icy hill.” can,” she continued. The freezing temperatures VOLUNTEERS ANSWER blanketing the state were “a crazy A community of THE CALL disaster no one expected” but it strong Catholics, plus When staff members at Good showcased the kindness and gen- independent living Shepherd Parish in Colleyville erosity of people living in the Lone and security saw water flooding the parish hall, Star State. meeting rooms, and a few offices in “It’s Texans helping other Daily Mass the administration building on Feb. Texans,” Cassie said. “You open 16, they issued an SOS requesting your door to the needs of others. and weekly volunteers. More than a hundred Everyone I’ve talked to who doesn’t Confession people showed up the next morning have something is staying with with wet/dry vacuums. someone who does.” 250-acre “And we got a lot of the water country living, cleaned up in an hour and a IDEA SPARKS MORE turkey and half,” explained business manager OUTREACH deer abound Michael Vinez. “There are still a lot As temperatures reached a of unknowns. We know at least one record-breaking negative 2 degrees pipe needs to be fixed.” Feb. 16, Father Manuel Holguin To protect against undetected looked for a way All Saints Parish leaks, employees did not turn on could help local residents survive the church boilers so that weekend the cold. Masses could be held. Many homeless congregate in Vinez wasn’t surprised so many Marine Park across from the church people offered to help when they in the North Side of Fort Worth. may have their own weather issues Many neighbors were affected by at home. the power outage. “I’ve been at the church a long “The pastor opened a warming time and our parishioners are just station in the parish hall for people amazing,” she said. “We ask and who needed to get out of the cold,” they give us whatever we need.” Deacon Ricardo DeLeon explained. “We called for volunteers and it TEXANS HELPING TEXANS quickly came together.” When Cassie and Rafael Eager to offer water, coffee, Zelaya found out their next-door snacks, and blankets to anyone com- neighbors had no electric power or ing through the door, the deacon water because of frozen pipes, they waited in the room for three hours. welcomed the couple and their two No one came. SaintFrancisVillage.com puppies into their home without “A police officer stopped in just hesitation. to see how things were going and he StFrancisVillageCatholicChapel.com “Our generator is hardwired mentioned an effort to pick up the 817-292-5786 into the house so anytime we lose 30 homeless in the area and take them percent of power, it kicks in,” Cassie to the Convention Center,” DeLeon
14 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 14 14 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g From a chilly house without electricity, two girls look at the winterscape in west Fort Worth. (NTC/Juan Guajardo)
reported. “That may be why we didn’t get anyone.” Letting the community know about the warming station on short notice is another reason for the lack of response. Organizers used social networking for publicity but internet service was unavailable for many during the blackout. “We did get a call late Tuesday to see if we could open as an all- night shelter, but we didn’t have the mattresses, cots, and manpower to do that,” the deacon admitted. Opening a warming station during the weather crisis was a good idea, and DeLeon said the parish hopes to build on that initiative. Summer heat waves may require cooling stations. “We want to anticipate events like this so we can better serve the community,” he added. “Fr. Manuel wants to start more outreach services like a St. Vincent de Paul Society so At Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Fort Worth, frozen flowers remain before a statue of Our Lady of we can address people’s needs.” Guadalupe. (NTC/Rodger Mallison)
15 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 15 DIOCESE Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 15 Cserdis Anderson, executive assistant to the president, answers a question from student Melanie Cortis during social studies class. (NTC/Ben Torres) lifting students UP
Cassata Catholic High School offers an individualized alternative for students from various backgrounds
By Joan Kurkowski-Gillen
elody Derrig wishes a school,” Derrig said. Fulbright, SSMN, and the late Sister Mary place like Cassata Catholic Now the mother of 18-year-old Ben Bonaventure Mangan, SHSp, the Cassata High School existed when and 16-year-old Madeline, the former Learning Center was designed originally she was a student. As a bookkeeper/receptionist is grateful her to help dropouts and other at-risk students Mteenager, undiagnosed learning issues kept children are enjoying a very different high earn a high school diploma. The religious her from mastering college preparatory school experience. Both are enrolled at sisters believed providing an education courses in foreign language and advanced Cassata. to young people who couldn’t thrive in a science. Choosing easier classes as a path “Everyone in that building lifts you traditional classroom prevented a lifetime to graduation, the Fort Worth native still up,” she observed. “The teachers, staff, of lost opportunities, unemployment, and remembers the dire prediction made by and counselors are always asking the kids poverty. her high school counselor. how they’re doing. No matter what’s going Heralded as one of Fort Worth’s first “She told me I would never amount to on, they walk with them.” alternative secondary schools, Cassata anything because I struggled so badly in Opened in 1975 by Sister Mary Learning Center offered individualized
16 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 16 16 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g attention, a self-paced curriculum, and needed a certain level of maturity to self- more anonymity. Young people with independent study. The innovative pace and self-motivate,” explained Dr. emotional needs or suffering from depres- approach attracted students from all socio- Maggie Harrison, who currently serves as sion often find a smaller school reduces the economic backgrounds and a groundswell Cassata’s president and principal. pressure to conform and perform. of community support. Four years ago, the school decided to “Here we know our students and know welcome its first group of freshmen. their families,” Harrison pointed out. EXPANDED STUDENT BODY “Most came from elementary schools “With our resources, we’re able to meet Forty-five years later, the school boasts in the diocese,” the administrator added. them where they are and provide a safe, an impressive list of graduates and a broad- “Some students are not well-suited to big supportive environment.” er range of students who want a more traditional high schools and Cassata is The COVID-19 pandemic intensified flexible academic environment. happy to serve them.” that commitment. Last March, in the early “We used to accept students 16 and In a conventional high school, classes older because there was a sense that you are bigger, the days are longer, and there’s Continued on Page 18
17 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 17 DIOCESE Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 17 From Page 17
days of the health crisis, Cassata began online instruction. Over the summer, the school developed a safety guideline plan and, like other Catholic schools in the diocese, opened its doors once again to students. A hybrid schedule allows both online and in-person learning with about 40 percent of students receiving strictly online instruction. “The pandemic forced us to be more resourceful, creative, and forward thinking,” said Harrison, noting that some classes are designed for “after hours” learning. Pupils can study mate- rial in the evening and contact teachers via email or by scheduled appointment. After the pandemic is over, online Social studies teacher Julianna McConegly works with student Fiona Schoonover on an assignment. learning will continue. (NTC/Ben Torres) “Because we see a need for that,” stressed the foreign language specialist. “We want to be as versatile and flexible as possible.” A patient, loving teaching staff is another key element in Cassata’s win- ning formula. “They never give up and find ways to work with students,” Harrison said approvingly. Commencement at the end of each semester is always a bittersweet moment. “We’re happy they are graduat- ing but also sad because we become attached and invested in their progress and future plans,” Harrison continued.
GRADUATES FIND SUCCESS While attending different private schools, Chandler Wewers was always uncomfortable passing the adminis- tration office. For no reason, seeing authority figures in the hallway always made her nervous. Students are photographed using a slow camera shutter as they change classes. (NTC/Ben Torres) That wasn’t the case the first time she met Cassata High School’s presi- dent as a sophomore. “I instantly felt at home,” recalled THERE’S the 19-year-old who grew up in More photos from our Cassata visit. MORE TO Colleyville. “Talking to Dr. Harrison Go to NorthTexasCatholic.org and was like meeting a best friend.” SEE click on the ‘Photo Gallery’ tab. Wewers transferred to Cassata because she didn’t like the “vibe” at her previous school and wanted to graduate
18 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 18 18 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g early. Now a journalism major at the University of Kansas, the undergraduate credits her Cassata teachers for an easy transition from high school to college. “I have amazing profes- sors but none of them are like my teachers at Cassata, who cared and wanted me to succeed,” admitted Wewers, who learned life skills, as well as academics, at the Hemphill Street campus. “I know how to speak to adults and write an effective email. I’m a lot more prepared than my classmates here.” After graduating from St. George Catholic School in Fort Worth, Angela Quintero enrolled in Cassata for a dif- ferent reason. Caring teachers Cassata Catholic High School on Hemphill Ave. (NTC/Ben Torres) helped her cope with crippling anxiety and “find my voice,” she 27. The “Night of Thanks” will said. remember the legacy of Cassata’s “I didn’t think a big school founders as well as the students, could help me manage what I families, staff, and foundations was going through at the time,” who worked over the years to the 20-year-old added. “When I ensure the school’s existence. visited Cassata, it felt like a safe Melody Derrig, co-chair of place.” the event, remains an ardent Individualized attention supporter of the school because of and a format that allowed her to what she’s witnessed firsthand. self-pace provided a comfortable “They make sure the kids learning environment. A flexible are number one,” the St. Patrick classroom schedule also gave parishioner said. Quintero the chance to watch If a teacher is in the middle of her mother, a social worker, help a conversation with a parent, and homeless people and veterans find a child comes in with a question, housing. The experience encour- the conversation stops, and the aged her to explore a career in student is taken care of first. social work. “I love that,” Derrig said “I’d go with her on days when appreciatively. “Cassata provides clients were moving into their first a nurturing environment and so apartment and saw the difference many kids need that today.” that made,” said the Cassata The mother of a Cassata graduate, who now attends Texas sophomore and senior feels Woman’s University. “That was passionately about the school the type of opportunity I could because of its mission. have because I was at Cassata.” “I want to keep it going not just for my kids, but for the future FUNDING THE FUTURE of other children who need one- Success stories like Quintero’s on-one attention,” she said. “It’s are the focus of Noche de Gracias not just a school for dropouts and Cassata Catholic High School President Maggie Harrison — a virtual fundraiser set for April troubled kids anymore.” (NTC/Ben Torres)
19 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 19 DIOCESE Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 19 Four-month-old Christopher Cockrell holds his father’s hand after coming home from hospitalization for a heart surgery in January 2021. (NTC/Juan Guajardo)
20 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 20 20 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g unexpected blessings
Parents appreciate the love and blessings their Down syndrome children bring
By Joan Kurkowski-Gillen
ach year the voice of people with Down syndrome, and those who live and work with them, grows louder.” Those words, publicizing World Down Syndrome “EDay (WDSD), resonate with Pamela McGehee. “Every day is Down syndrome awareness for us. It’s so much a part of our lives and our thought process,” said the mother of 24-year-old Brigid. “It’s good to raise public awareness for the rest of the world.” Declining prenatal testing, the pro-life Catholic convert didn’t know her second daughter had Down syndrome until she was born. McGehee considers the chromosomal disorder, found in 6,000 U.S. births each year, a gift that helped her find love, faith, and lasting friendships. “The blessings that Brigid brought to our family are innumerable,” stated the property investor, explaining how the diagnosis led to meeting her husband, Frank, and later joining the Catholic Church. In 2015, McGehee founded Our Mother of Perpetual Help Educational Program to provide a Catholic-based learning environment for children and ado- lescents with special needs. Finding effective schooling for Brigid inspired the venture. “It breaks my heart every time I hear someone is terminating a pregnancy because of Down syndrome,” admitted the St. Benedict parishioner. “I can literally see all the blessings God would give to them being flushed away.”
FOSTERING INCLUSIVENESS, SUPPORT Officially observed by the United Nations since 2012, WDSD is always celebrated on the 21st day of the third month of the year (March 21) to draw attention to the trisomy of the 21st chromosome that causes Down syndrome. Activities, proclamations, and fundraisers are designed to create global awareness and foster a spirit of inclusiveness and support
Continued on Page 22
21 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 21 DIOCESE Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 21 Jeanette Gray and her 15-year-old son, Andrew, are shown in front of their house January 27, 2021. (NTC/Rodger Mallison)
From Page 21 person. He enjoys movies and watching “Andrew brings joy and humor to our his sister play volleyball. I just want him life,” his mom said. “He doesn’t have down for people with the condition, also known as to always be involved and accepted in the days.” Trisomy 21. community.” The most common chromosomal Just “sailing along” after the birth LOOKING BEYOND THE DIAGNOSIS abnormality diagnosed in the U.S., the dis- of her first child, Megan, the Pittsburgh Amy Matasso hoped to find a Catholic order occurs in people of all races and eco- native was surprised when early tests indi- school that would look beyond her son’s nomic levels and affects how a baby’s body cated something atypical with her second Down syndrome and welcome what she and brain develop. Although both mental pregnancy. Finding out the baby had sees — a little boy who loves to learn. and physical challenges are present, the Down syndrome was distressing but didn’t The Holy Redeemer parishioner found future of people with Down syndrome has compare to what happened next. More the answer to her prayers at Holy Family improved dramatically over several decades than one person recommended abortion. Catholic School in Fort Worth. with many living independent, productive “To me it really was a totally shocking “Nothing is more nerve wracking than lives well into adulthood. thing,” Gray recalled. “Educated people having people shutting doors before they were willing to say it was no problem if I get to know Andrew and what he’s capable INVOLVED AND ACCEPTED wanted to terminate the pregnancy.” of,” Matasso said matter-of-factly. “So Helping her son become a contrib- Abortion was never an option for the many focus on what children with Down uting member of society is a goal shared cradle Catholic who was “shocked and sad- syndrome can’t do and not what they can by Jeanette Gray and her husband, Scott. dened by doctors telling me it was okay.” do.” Born in 2005 with Down syndrome, When Andrew was born, he was just At Holy Family, the teachers and prin- 15-year-old Andrew is now a freshman in like any other newborn — beautiful. cipal saw only possibilities — not problems public high school. “And I enjoyed those moments,” Gray — when Andrew enrolled in the school’s “We want him to have a job he loves,” remembered. “Sure, there have been trying kindergarten program in 2019. The eight- asserted Gray, a third-grade teacher at times but the joy of being a mother far year-old is now in first grade and part of Immaculate Conception Catholic School outweighs any of the other issues that we a school community that includes older in Denton. “Andrew is a real people come across as he grows up.” brother, Josh, a third grader, and sister,
22 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 22 22 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g Andrew Matasso attends his first grade class at Holy Family Catholic School on January 29, 2021. (NTC/Rodger Mallison)
Lorelei, a preschooler. from a developmental perspective. It’s older boys, four-year-old J.T. and two-year- “The way he was accepted was just incredible.” old Jackson. “This whole event has just beautiful,” beamed the mother who Andrew deepened her family’s faith brought me to my knees. It’s been difficult, worried how someone needing extra and made them more grateful for the little but I can see Christ working in the prayers help would be received in the classroom. things in life. It also fostered compassion and support we’ve received.” “Andrew has speech challenges, and his for the hidden struggles of other families. Jameson Cockerell admitted expe- classmates get so excited when he uses “You don’t realize how many parents riencing a range of emotions prior to words they can understand. He’s made have a child with special needs until you’re Christopher’s birth. A small faith group special friendships.” given one,” Matasso said. the couple belongs to offered support and The pleasure of watching her son encouragement. achieve milestones contrasts sharply with MEETING A MIRACLE “Our plans are not what God’s plans the emotional fog that descended on Caring for a child with Down syn- are and that was certainly true for us,” the Matasso and her husband, Anthony, after drome is a new reality for Erin and software specialist explained. hospital nurses noticed their newborn had Jameson Cockerell. Born in September, There’s an inherent tension that exists physical features consistent with Down their son Christopher has undergone two when hearing the words, Down syndrome. syndrome. Research and meetings with surgeries to repair a common heart defect “But the primacy of meeting the specialists filled their days for the next two found in children with Down syndrome. person overrides that,” he continued. years. The couple’s Catholic faith helps them “Meeting Christopher changed the whole Facts gleaned from the internet can deal with the child’s health crisis. picture because you’re face to face with a seem grim, but advances in education and “There’s been a lot of prayer and miracle.” therapies are changing the outlook for discernment on how we could be the best The St. Elizabeth Ann Seton children like Andrew, Matasso pointed out. parents,” Erin explained. “As soon as we parishioners agree life with their special More awareness could impact their future got the diagnosis, we wanted to give the needs child will be different but not even more. According to some sources, 75 baby a name so we could start praying for diminished. to 90 percent of children with a prenatal him.” “It’s the life God wants us to have,” diagnosis of Down syndrome are aborted. She typed “patron saint of strong Erin suggested. “We’re both hopeful “Parents are scared and don’t know men” into her computer search engine and Christopher will help us become saints. what to do,” she sympathized. “If people the name Christopher popped up. That’s the whole point of living. He’s met more children like Andrew, they would “The name means ‘Christ bearer’ so existed a year [from conception] and we’ve see the happy, independent lives they can it’s perfect for him and what he’s done already changed so much as a family, as lead. There’s so much that can be done for our family,” added the mother of two people, as Christians.”
23 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 23 DIOCESE Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 23 in the footsteps of ST. FAUSTINA Vietnamese Catholics embrace Christ’s Divine Mercy message of love and trust
By Jerry Circelli
hat started as one collection known as The Diary of Saint that God wanted me to become local Catholic Maria Faustina Kowalska: Divine Mercy involved in a concrete way. woman’s personal in My Soul. Contained in the work “I prayed the Divine Mercy encounter with is God’s loving message of Divine Chaplet and remember so clear- JesusW Christ has grown to become Mercy. ly that I was crying hard. I was a spiritually enriching devotion That message focuses on the thinking about souls in purgatory. involving about 200 faithful fact that God loves all of humanity. I promised God that I would trust among the Vietnamese Catholic He wants people to recognize that in His mercy and I would pray for community at four parishes in the His mercy is greater than their sins, those souls.” Diocese of Fort Worth. and asks the faithful to call upon His Hoang further explained that Known as the Divine Mercy trust, receive His mercy, and let it she made other promises to God devotion, the movement among local flow through them and on to others. in those early morning hours. “I Catholics is rapidly gaining momen- The formation of the devotional prayed and said I would dedicate tum at the following parishes: Our group of local Vietnamese Catholics myself to the Divine Mercy Chaplet Lady of Fatima and Christ the King began with Christina MyKhanh every day, attend Mass every day in Fort Worth; Vietnamese Martyrs Hoang, a parishioner at Our Lady of to receive Christ, and I would start in Arlington; and Immaculate Fatima in Fort Worth. doing all these things right now,” Conception of Mary in Wichita Hoang cannot explain why, but she said. Falls. she said that one October morning For the next several months, The faithful at these parishes in 2012, at around 3 a.m., she awoke Hoang said she did not reveal her are uniting to spread Christ’s Divine with a burning desire to enter the intense devotion to Divine Mercy Mercy message that was relayed to designated prayer room in her home. to anyone, not even her husband, St. Maria Faustina Kowalska in the “Something happened there Deacon Michael Hoang of Our 1930s when she was a young nun that night as I prayed,” Hoang said. Lady of Fatima Parish. She began with the Congregation of the Sisters “I consecrated myself to Divine attending daily Mass, received of Our Lady of Mercy, serving Mercy.” daily Communion, attended weekly in Lithuania and Poland. Christ “I have always loved the Divine Stations of the Cross, confessed revealed extraordinary messages to Mercy message so much,” Hoang her sins weekly, prayed the Divine St. Faustina, which she recorded in a said, “and I discovered that night Mercy Chaplet regularly, and
24 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 24 24 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g Christina Hoang has the Divine Mercy image prominently placed in her prayer room. (NTC/Juan Guajardo)
sought God’s guidance on how to Fr. Khoi had long been devoted pope. In it, the pontiff reiterated his proceed. to Divine Mercy and was moved devotion to the Divine Mercy message. Once she completed this period spiritually by the words of Pope “It is a love that converts hearts that she called a time of discernment John Paul II at the turn of the new and gives peace. How much the and sanctification, Hoang began to millennium. The pope, who is now world needs to understand and accept approach her fellow parishioners at one of our most beloved saints, Divine Mercy!” the pope’s prophetic Our Lady of Fatima Church. She canonized St. Faustina on April message read. asked if they would like to join in her 30, 2000. The date was the second The words resonated with Fr. Divine Mercy devotion. Nine friends Sunday of Easter that year and Khoi. at the parish were immediately recep- was established as Divine Mercy “For me, personally, I am very tive to her invitation to pray and learn Sunday. The pope said at the time devoted to Divine Mercy because more about Christ’s message of Divine of the canonization and feast day Christ’s love is redeeming and His Mercy. announcement, “This is the happiest mercy is helping all the world,” Fr. Hoang next discussed the idea day of my life.” Khoi said. “We are sinners, but of forming a devotional group in the Five years later, Pope John Paul Jesus loves us, and He has pity on us. parish with Father Jim Khoi, CRM, II died on the vigil of the feast day Through our devotion, we show our who was then pastor of Our Lady of Divine Mercy Sunday. During the love to Him.” of Fatima. The Congregation of the Mass for the repose of St. John Paul Fr. Khoi said he and 170 CRM Mother of the Redeemer religious II’s soul the next day, on Divine Mercy priests and brothers experienced order priest immediately embraced Sunday 2005, the Vatican delivered Hoang’s suggestion. a message previously written by the Continued on Page 26
25 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 25 DIOCESE Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 25 gift from God, Hoang said, citing his passion for the Divine Mercy devotion. He consented to become the group’s spiritual advisor and chaplain. In 2016, Fr. Khoi and Hoang took about 40 Catholics, including several members of the Divine Mercy devotional group, on a memorable and spiritually enriching pilgrimage to Poland. There they visited the Shrine of Divine Mercy and many other sites with historic significance to our Church. At the Shrine of Divine Mercy, in Faustina’s Chapel, Fr. Khoi celebrated Mass for the group. Fr. Khoi, now pastor of Immaculate Conception of Mary Parish in Wichita Falls, and Hoang advanced the Divine Mercy group a step further in 2019 when they received permission from Bishop Michael Olson to expand the movement to include members of other parishes. For now, that has included all four Vietnamese Catholic community parishes and possibly other churches in the coming years. Although activities have been interrupted by restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the group members plan to return to regularly practicing their devotion to Divine Mercy at their individual parishes and together with members from all four parishes. Fr. Khoi explained this includes the sacrament of Reconciliation, Mass, Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, reciting the Chaplet of Divine Mercy, exploring readings from the diary of St. Faustina, Stations of the Cross, spiritual sharing, and praying the (NTC/Michael Sherman) Holy Rosary. Going forward, Hoang defined the From Page 25 mercy over us. He took care of us and we group’s mission this way: are very thankful.” “God asked St. Faustina to spread His Christ’s love and mercy firsthand when they The priests and brothers endured divine message to the whole world. It is up escaped from South Vietnam during the harrowing experiences at sea and now min- to us now to continue her mission. It communist takeover in 1975. ister to Vietnamese Catholic communities is very important that everybody The priest previously shared that throughout the United States. knows about God’s mercy and experience with the North Texas Catholic Fr. Khoi’s involvement has been another love for the world.” this way: “We sailed out into the ocean … but we did not know where we were going. We did not even have a destination. FIND We all asked each other where we were To learn more about the Divine Mercy devotion headed, and no one had an answer. We just OUT and St. Faustina, visit TheDivineMercy.org. The entrusted everything to God and set out into MORE! website is operated by the Marian Fathers of the ocean.” the Immaculate Conception and features many The priest said recently, “Our whole resources about the devotion. community was touched by Christ’s divine
26 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 26 26 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g 27 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 27 DIOCESE Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 27 don’t give up on
Thislent year may seem like a constant Lent, but we can use these 40 days to grow in holiness and prepare for the joy of the Resurrection
By Susan Moses
A large crucifix welcomes visitors to Montserrat Jesuit Retreat House. (NTC/Juan Guajardo)
28 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 28 28 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g y the time you read this, In previous years, we have we are at least two weeks chosen our own deprivation during into Lent. But perhaps Lent. We selected the sacrifice; we you feel like we are clos- knew the duration. Control was in Bing in on a year of Lent. our hands. Lent is a time in which we However, we have been living symbolically join Jesus in the for 11 months in a pandemic, desert for 40 days. This liturgical with sacrifices beyond our control. season emphasizes prayer, fasting, Gatherings of families and friends and almsgiving. After the (roughly) have been curtailed, vacations can- 40 days of Lent, we hope to be celed, and celebrations deferred. walking more closely with Jesus so Those most at risk have been we can more fully enter into the isolated at home, even forgoing joy of His Resurrection. worshipping in person with their During Lent, traditionally we parish community at Mass. sacrifice something that separates And those are the lucky ones. us from Him, whether we choose Many have lost jobs, suffered to swap 15 minutes of sleep for debilitating effects from the extra time in prayer, or we fast illness or are grieving the loss of from social media or Netflix. family members and friends to Giving up chocolate may seem COVID-19. frivolous to some, but one year Plus, this year Lent began I abstained from chocolate and during an epic winter storm that donated 50 cents to my parish’s knocked out power to almost four food pantry each time I wanted million Texans. chocolate. My contribution fed a family for a week or more. Continued on Page 30
29 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 29 FEATURE Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 29 From Page 29 be done” (Luke 22:42). fasting, and Dcn. Thomas recommend- Meditating on that verse in prayer, ed increasing fasting during Lent. “Not These circumstances, which altered especially during the pandemic, helps us necessarily eating less food but abstain our normal way of life in so many aspects, recognize the enormity of Jesus’ sacrifice from favorite foods and restaurants. For might cause you to rethink the usual man- and place our own desires behind the will of some, not drinking a soda every day may ner you approach Lent. But we can still get the Father. be incredibly painful. Start small — but be our hearts and minds ready for the passion The Stations of the Cross are another consistent and committed,” he said. of the Lord, even if the usual retreats are traditional Lenten prayer that focuses our Is it possible to fast from gossip, bigotry, virtual and the fish fries are drive-thru. attention on our Savior’s suffering. If pray- or negativity? Or abstain from distractions ing the Stations of the Cross each Friday is and time wasters? Ask the Lord what He’d PRAYER part of your Lenten habits, take it outside. like you to eliminate to give Him more Deacon Andy Thomas, director of And bring your family. access to your heart. religious education at St. Martin de Porres St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Parish in Prosper, remembered a quote Keller, Vietnamese Martyrs Parish in ALMSGIVING attributed to Pope St. John Paul II, among Arlington, and Our Lady of Lourdes Parish With about 22 million jobs lost during others: “Don’t waste your suffering!” in Mineral Wells are among the churches the pandemic, and 10 million still unem- “We all are struggling through this pan- in the diocese with outdoor Stations of the ployed, almsgiving is more important than demic, regardless of what our beliefs may Cross. ever for those who are able. be regarding the news and the restrictions A fellow Catholic whose health condi- Parish food pantries, often run by the placed in front of us,” he stated. “Use this tions preclude him from attending Mass in St. Vincent de Paul Society, and commu- suffering that is deep and often painful and person is planning to take a chair outside nity food banks have seen increased need unite it to the cross as a powerful prayer for to pray during Lent to break the routine of for services. Contributions to them transfer you, your family, or someone else.” the past year. “When I pray outside, I can quickly to neighbors needing food and We offer up our struggles, frustrations, admire the natural beauty and remember assistance with other essentials. and losses to the Lord. We can also recall God created all of this for us. He’s mighty. Another organization to consider friends, neighbors, and fellow parishioners He’s powerful. He’s merciful,” he said. for almsgiving is Catholic Charities Fort whose problems are much greater than Prayer draws us closer to the Lord. Ask Worth. In 2020, the nonprofit received ours, and we can lift them up in prayer. the Holy Spirit to be with you as you read a surge of phone calls to its Community In this year, when the pandemic, social the Bible with a prayerful heart. Read and Care Center, serving 6,320 individuals and unrest, and a presidential election highlight- reflect on the daily Mass readings or select a families in crisis with assistance with rent, ed the injustices and divisions of society, Gospel and read a chapter each day. utilities, other financial aid, and resource Dcn. Thomas explained, “Reparation referrals. prayer is necessary now more than ever. FASTING Katelin Cortney, strategic commu- Consider doubling your time in prayer but Both the Old and New Testaments nications director of CCFW, specifically focusing on prayers of reparation.” address the spiritual practice of fasting, recommends Gabriel Project as a program Prayers of reparation help repair the which serves to purify us, remove the where donations of time and money can spiritual damage done by our sins and the spiritual clutter in our lives that separates have a significant impact. sins of humanity. They include the Litany us from God, and increase our reliance on Gabriel Project provides practical help of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Divine Him. to mothers in crisis pregnancies. Cortney Mercy chaplet, the Holy Rosary, and the Due to precautions of spreading the dis- said, “Last year, we helped 311 moms chaplet of the Seven Sorrows of Mary. A ease, many of us have reduced the activities through their pregnancies and beyond, quick Google search can get you started. that normally fill our calendars, which can distributing $72,000 in baby items and Deacon Lynn Sowers of St. Andrew feel like an involuntary fast from the social $31,000 in financial assistance. Parish in Fort Worth has a simple but engagements we enjoy. “We support the mother’s choice powerful recommendation for Lenten Dcn. Thomas suggested fasting from of life through prayer, friendship and prayer: to gaze at a crucifix. Spending time technology — reducing or eliminating time encouragement, providing emotional and contemplating the crucified Jesus allows us spent on smart phones, television, internet, spiritual support, immediate and practical to “recognize what Jesus did for us. Jesus news, and social media. Abstaining from help, pregnancy information, community hung on the cross for us – for our sins, for the online world is “an avenue to focus on resources, clothing, and baby items,” she everybody’s sins,” he stated. trust and not fear,” he said, and opens extra continued. Another prayer suggestion from Dcn. time “to read Sacred Scripture and the lives She suggested that individuals could Sowers originates from Jesus’ prayer the of the saints and have quiet dialogue with help by donating money or baby items, night before His crucifixion. Jesus prayed, the Lord.” coordinating a drive for diapers, or volun- “Father, if you are willing, take this cup The Catholic Church declares Ash teering to walk with a woman through her away from me; still, not my will but yours Wednesday and Good Friday as days of pregnancy.
30 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 30 30 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g Two worshippers pray in front of the tabernacle at Holy Cross Parish in The Colony. (NTC/Juan Guajardo)
Almsgiving is a way we give back to the Lord some of the blessings He has bestowed on us. While giving alms certainly includes financial contributions, we have other resources to offer others, such as our time, our wisdom, and our love. Call a neighbor or relative. Send notes of thanks or encouragement. Help a senior register for the corona- virus vaccine or drive them to receive it. Encourage your children to make cards for the elderly and shut ins. Take the time to bless someone else. Dcn. Thomas said, “If you are struggling econom- ically, give less or not at all. It is okay to be honest with your situation. It’s an act of humility that God too will reward.” Through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, we can turn away from sin and turn towards God during Lent. Dcn. Sowers of St. Andrew Parish describes Lent as an opportunity to “join Jesus on a journey” in response to His invitation to “come and see.” On the journey, we can look for ways to show Jesus’ love to others. The journey is different this year. But Jesus is with Anna Melfi packs food us, in the desert, in the suffering, and on the cross. into boxes for a food And He will be with us as we celebrate the joy of His drive at St. Jude Parish Resurrection during the Easter season, which begins in Mansfield. April 4 this year and lasts longer than Lent. (NTC/Ben Torres)
31 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 31 FEATURE Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 31 fact check Debunking misconceptions and answering questions surrounding the COVID-19 vaccines
By Juan Guajardo
hat we’ve all been affected in The Sources some way or another by misin- formation or lies is an ever-pres- ent reality. Bishop Michael Olson studied at the Center for Health Care TConsider Logically, the world’s largest Ethics in the Catholic Tradition for five years and holds a dedicated fact-checking, fake-news debunk- doctorate in moral theology from the Accademia Alfonsiana ing company. In 2019, its team of data in Rome. He also served as community representative on the scientists, pro fact-checkers, journalists, Ethics Committee for Research Involving Human Subjects at investigators, developers – and yes, artificial the University of Texas Medical Center in Houston. intelligence — discovered that a troubling 12 to 14 percent of articles about the U.K. and Indian elections were unreliable and contained misinformation. Enter 2020. A Father Tad Pacholczyk, Ph.D., holds a doctorate in neuroscience global pandemic, homegrown extremists, from Yale and serves as Director of Education at the National an American election, and of course, loads Catholic Bioethics Center in Philadelphia. He writes a monthly of new misinformation. Logically just column called “Making Sense of Bioethics,” which is regularly entered the U.S. market in summer 2020, published on NorthTexasCatholic.org. but I can imagine their misinformation stats will far outpace the ones from 2019. Similarly, there has been copious misin- formation regarding the COVID vaccines The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops released multiple — specifically, concerns regarding morality statements in the past two months regarding the COVID-19 and Catholic teaching. To address these vaccines. The Committee on Doctrine and the Committee head on, the NTC spoke with experts in the on Pro-life Activities were some of the major contributors to field of morality and ethics, and drew from these documents, including those titled “Moral Considerations information published firsthand by the U.S. Regarding the New COVID-19 Vaccines” and “Answers to Key Conference of Catholic Bishops and its Ethical Questions about COVID-19 Vaccines” (both of which committees on ethics and pro-life. were referenced verbatim here).
32 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 32 32 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g Comparing ethical profiles
Is it true that some of the vaccines of vaccine candidates combatting COVID-19 have a connection to abortion?
U.S. Bishops: Yes. Several decades ago, tissue harvested from the bodies of aborted babies was used to create certain cell lines for research purposes. The cells in these lines are, in effect, the descendants of those cells that were originally harvested. They have been made to replicate themselves, and some cell lines can be reproduced indefinitely. These abortion-derived cell lines are used as a “factory” to manufacture certain vaccines (e.g., rubella, chickenpox, some of the COVID-19 vaccines, etc.). The cells themselves, however, are not present in the vaccines that patients receive.
Do the COVID-19 vaccines use abortion- derived cell lines?
U.S. Bishops: As of the date of this writing, hundreds of vaccines for COVID-19 are in development worldwide, and more than a dozen are in the final stages of testing. Some don’t use abortion-derived cell lines at all, some have used such cell lines to test the vaccine’s efficacy, and some are using such cell lines in the development and/or the production phases. There are currently two vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) being distributed for use in the United States, and there are others that are likely to be made available in the coming months (e.g., AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson, etc.). Neither Pfizer nor Moderna used an abortion-derived cell line in the development or production of the vaccine. However, such a cell line was used to test the efficacy of both vaccines. Thus, while neither vaccine is completely free from any use of abortion-derived cell lines, in these two cases the use is very remote from the initial evil of the abortion. The AstraZeneca and Johnson vaccines raise additional moral concerns because an abortion-derived cell line is used not only for testing, but also in development and production. *Information compiled by Charlotte Lozier Institute and National Catholic Bioethics Continued on Page 34 Center. Last updated February 24, 2021. An expanded list is available at FatherTad.com.
33 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 33 FEATURE Ma r c h / April 2021 33 SAFE ENVIRONMENT From Page 33 of the new phenomenon of To Report Misconduct: COVID-19. If you or someone you know is a As Catholic Christians, is it OK In the face of such claims, victim of sexual misconduct by if we are inoculated with these it can be helpful to remind anyone who serves the Church, vaccines? people, “This is actually nothing including clergy: new” — ever since 2005, U.S. Bishops: Given that the following careful and extensive Call the Victim Assistance COVID-19 virus can involve examination of the issue, and on Hotline at 817-602-5119. serious health risks, it can be multiple occasions, the Church morally acceptable to receive a has concluded and taught not Call the Director of Safe vaccine that uses abortion-derived only that it is permissible to Environment at 817-945-9334 cell lines if there are no other receive vaccines produced using and leave a message. available vaccines comparable these problematic cell lines when in safety and efficacy with no there is a proportionate reason Call the Chancellor of the connection to abortion. If it such as a threat to one’s health, diocese at 817-945-9315. is possible to choose among a but also that we have a duty number of equally safe and to push for alternatives and to To Report Abuse effective COVID-19 vaccines, the apply pressure so that the use of or Suspected Abuse: vaccine with the least connection such cells does not continue. If you suspect abuse of a child, elder, to abortion-derived cell lines This was stated first in or vulnerable adult, or abuse has been should be chosen. If a vaccine 2005 in a document from disclosed to you: with no connection to abortion- the Pontifical Academy for derived cell lines is not readily Life. It was stated again in If someone is in immediate available, vaccines that used such 2008, in a document from the danger call 911. cell lines only for testing would be Congregation for the Doctrine preferable to those that use such of the Faith. It was stated Call the Texas Department of cell lines for ongoing production. again in 2017 in a document Family and Protective Services Such choices may not be possible, from the Pontifical Academy (CPS) at 800-252-5400. however, especially in the early for Life. Finally and most stages of vaccine distribution. In recently in December of 2020 Immediately report the alleged that case, one may receive any another document from the abuse to your supervisor, priest, of the clinically recommended Congregation for the Doctrine or principal and submit the vaccines in good conscience with of the Faith articulated the same Confidential Notice of Concern the assurance that reception of conclusions. with CPS report information, such vaccines does not involve contact information on all immoral cooperation in abortion. concerned, description of abuse, dates if known, and how you Could vaccines relying on learned of the abuse. injecting patients with mRNA What has the Vatican said change our genetic makeup and For more information about our abuse regarding the permissibility of fundamentally alter who we prevention policies and programs, visit receiving these vaccines? are as humans, moving us into a fwdioc.org/safe-environment project of Transhumanism? Fr. Tad: Some Catholics try to imply that the true mind of Fr. Tad: Any incorporation the Church is actually opposed of new genes into our to the reception of abortion- chromosomes from a COVID-19 associated vaccines (despite both mRNA vaccine would be an Pope Francis and Pope Benedict exceedingly rare occurrence, having been vaccinated with the if it were to occur at all. It is Pfizer vaccine). They suggest actually very difficult to get that the real teaching of the the genetic information of Church is somehow being mRNA to integrate into our re-appropriated in the wake chromosomes, partly because this
3 4 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 34 3 4 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g would mean a reverse directional urging them to discontinue their use go to school, don’t go to work. I flow of the so-called Central of abortion-derived cell lines. If they think this has also enabled us to Dogma of Molecular Biology: our do so, we should also thank them. develop further outreach, like for DNA or chromosomes are read We can similarly initiate homebound faithful who were here (“transcribed”) to produce mRNA, discussions with friends or relatives before COVID. which is then read (“translated”) who work in research labs about [Livestreamed Mass] is to make proteins. Even if the whether their company or university something more that we’ve accidental and unintentional uses cells derived from abortions. been able to offer them. It’s not incorporation of an mRNA meant to be a replacement for message into our chromosomes participation in Mass. It never were somehow to occur following is. But the obligation to attend vaccination, this would not mean Does the use of hydrogel Mass, while essential to our faith, that we were creating “Human nanotechnology to deliver these is not to supersede an obligation 2.0,” since those genetic changes mRNA vaccines mean there will be to love my neighbor by preventing would not be expected to affect microchips implanted in my body? the spread of illness, especially our sex cells, and therefore would for people who are in a more not be transmitted to the next Fr. Tad: No microchips are vulnerable population. generation. Vaccinating people with present in vaccines. Hydrogel I know many people are an mRNA vaccine for COVID-19, nanotechnology refers to the “lipid inconvenienced by the wearing of therefore, does not imply that we are nanoparticles” which encase the masks, and among some, there’s “remaking man” or heading down mRNA. This is a glorified way of a demand that we do away with the path of Transhumanism. saying “very small oil droplet.” them. But I think our current Lipids are what our cell membranes protocols have been effective in are composed of, so when the preventing a super spread. They mRNA vaccine is injected, the lipid have been effective in helping What can we Catholics and others of the vaccine particle merges with people to be able to participate who uphold the sanctity of life the lipid of the cell (like two oil in the liturgy — if they’re willing do to protest against the use of droplets merging) and the piece of to do so. These protocols have abortion-derived cell lines? mRNA is delivered to the inside of especially helped reduce spread to the cell (“transfection”). those who are more vulnerable to Bishop Olson: I think the first step These “lipid nanoparticles” contagion, like the elderly. is, of course, awareness of this. could theoretically be misused So, I still think that for the Secondly, all these corporations to deliver other controversial near future masks are going to are publicly traded. And so I think substances into the body like be required. And I think we have that for those of us who invest, we microchips, but this does not mean to do that for the sake of the have a responsibility to help change they should not be used for valid common good, and for love of our the culture by, in a sense, putting purposes, like delivering life-saving neighbor. pressure on corporate leadership. mRNA vaccines during a pandemic. And I think those are some things that we can do. Most importantly, we must pray, but also to take the Should we have any concern steps necessary to bring change How else can we care for our about these vaccines potentially about. neighbors’ health during this time being the “mark of the beast” of pandemic? cited in the Book of Revelation? Fr. Tad: We still face a real duty to push back and make known our Bishop Olson: No vaccine is going Bishop Olson: That notion is disagreement with the continued to be 100 percent effective, nor has incompatible with our mainstream use of these cells by researchers in it ever been, but it helps mitigate Catholic theology of Revelation the pharmaceutical industry and the spread of a disease. But let’s in Scripture and tradition. I academia. We can do this in several not forget other good practices think that’s a fundamentalist ways. We can write a letter to the that we have in public health. The — a narrow fundamentalist — editor to heighten public awareness, washing of hands, the covering of interpretation of this. And I or contact the pharmaceutical one’s mouth when they sneeze. If don’t think authentic Scripture companies that make vaccines, you’re ill, don’t go to church, don’t scholarship bears that out.
35 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 35 FEATURE Ma r c h / April 2021 35 A view of the St. Joseph statue at Sacred Heart Parish in Muenster. Parishioners consider him as protector of their church. Joseph, protector of the Church (NTC/Juan Guajardo)
36 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 36 36 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g ST. JOSEPH, model father During the Year of St. Joseph, local Catholics recognize the importance and virtues of the “Silent Saint”
By Tony Gutierrez
he end of April 1994 holds the that devotion to the foster-father of Jesus record for the largest one-day everywhere. tornado outbreak in North Texas. Linda Sepanski from THE HOLY YEAR TSacred Heart Parish in Muenster remem- “Each of us can discover in Joseph — bers when she went to pick up her sec- the man who goes unnoticed, a daily, discreet ond-grader Kate from the parochial school and hidden presence — an intercessor, a that day. support and a guide in times of trouble” Her other two daughers were home, writes Pope Francis in his introduction to but Kate was at school practicing for her Patris Corde, his apostolic letter proclaiming first Holy Communion, Sepanski recalls. the holy year. “St. Joseph reminds us that When she arrived, a fellow parishioner those who appear hidden or in the shadows motioned for her to come into the church can play an incomparable role in the history basement, as the skies started to darken. of salvation. A word of recognition and of In the basement, a religious sister led the gratitude is due to them all.” students in praying a Rosary. Father Daniel Kelley, pastor of St. Tornadoes that day struck Alvord, Joseph Parish in Arlington, agrees. “St. Bowie, St. Jo, and Windthorst, with an Joseph is an important part of our Church EF2 causing severe damage in Gainesville and who we are as a people of faith,” he — just minutes away. But Muenster was said. spared damage. In fact, Muenster has “It’s important for us to recognize the been spared damage since 1893, when importance of St. Joseph and have that the mostly Catholic residents of the town image of father in our families,” Fr. Kelley dedicated themselves to St. Joseph for his added. “I know there are many families that protection. struggle with that idea because of our mod- “Mommy, I wish Muenster could ern society, some families don’t have fathers be everywhere,” Sepanski recalled her living in their homes.” 4-year-old daughter Lauren saying at the For the holy year, Greg Brown, a district time. “I said, ‘Honey, Muenster can’t be deputy for the Knights of Columbus, is everywhere, but people everywhere can ask encouraging all of the councils in his juris- St. Joseph to pray for them.’” diction to pray a novena to St. Joseph as a In promulgating this year as the Holy group once during the year and to share Year of St. Joseph from Dec. 8, 2020 to Joseph, protector of the Church Dec. 8, 2021, Pope Francis hopes to build Continued on Page 38
37 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 37 COVER STORY Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 37 This St. Joseph statue outside St. Joseph Parish in Arlington was a gift from the church to its parishioners. Miniatures were also created and made available for families to take home. Joseph, exemplar of silence (NTC/Juan Guajardo)
From Page 37 every sphere of one’s life. Only when love man, I want to provide for my future fam- is chaste, is it truly love. The logic of love ily and to be a foundation for the people spiritual literature from the Knights with is always the logic of freedom, and Joseph around me.” their respective parishes. knew how to love with extraordinary “As brother Knights, we look to St. freedom. DILIGENT PROTECTOR OF CHRIST Joseph to be devoted to God, to be diligent “He never made himself the center of St. Joseph was warned in a dream to in our witness and in our practice of our things,” the pope continued. “He did not leave at once for Egypt to save his adopted faith and to come to the defense of this think of himself but focused instead on the Child’s life (Mt 2:13-15). In this moment, faith that we share in common,” Brown lives of Mary and Jesus.” and in many others throughout the life of said. “That is the root of who we are.” Although married, Joseph and Mary Christ, Joseph protected and reared Him, Despite an already existing devotion to lived and raised a family together without helping form the human nature of Jesus. St. Joseph, lifelong Muensterite and newly a sexual relationship. As her “most chaste “Fathers are not born but made,” ordained Deacon Gary Endres said his spouse” — as recited in the Divine Praises writes Pope Francis. “A man does not devotion has increased since his discern- — Joseph maintained a reverential respect become a father simply by bringing a child ment and formation process. for her perpetual virginity and not only into the world, but by taking up the respon- “My middle name is Joseph, so St. protected her but remained faithful. sibility to care for that child. Whenever a Joseph has always been my feast day,” said Alex Lopez, president of the Fort man accepts responsibility for the life of Dcn. Endres. “I pray to St. Joseph and St. Worth chapter of Young Catholic another, in some way he becomes a father.” Mary to protect us by the power of God. Professionals, said that — like St. Joseph Fr. Kelley said the holy year promulgat- Without even realizing it, my devotion to — he hopes to be patient, caring, and ed by Pope Francis is a call to contemplate St. Joseph has increased. I asked him a lot understanding, while still maintaining a St. Joseph’s role as a faithful spouse and of times to help me be a good father and strong masculinity, to prepare him for his faithful father of Jesus. serve as a good deacon.” future family. As a priest, who is addressed as Lopez is a parishioner of St. Joseph in “Father,” Fr. Kelley said St. Joseph can CHASTE GUARDIAN OF THE VIRGIN Arlington, where he sings in the choir. He serve as a role model for him and his broth- In his decree launching the special year said, “It’s really encouraging knowing he er priests. dedicated to St. Joseph, Pope Francis writes was able to be such a strong foundation for “People remind me, especially on “Chastity is freedom from possessiveness in his family. Me being a young adult and a Father’s Day, that my children go home
38 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 38 38 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g every day after being here,” he said. “I think a priest should see himself as an important role model and father figure for the parish community and for families in the parish.” Sepanski noted that St. Joseph was a part of everything she did growing up, including signing notes with “JMJ” — “Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.” It’s fitting that this year has been dedicated to Joseph, she said, because just as he protected Jesus, he is also a powerful intercessor for the unborn. “Dear St. Joseph, so strong and powerful, yet so humble. He was the protector of the Christ Child, who was innocent,” she said. “We’re living in a time when restrictions pro- tecting the innocent unborn are being lifted, Joseph, exemplar of silence so what a time to pray to St. Joseph.”
EXEMPLAR OF SILENCE “Joseph found happiness not in mere self-sacrifice but in self-gift. In him, we never see frustration but only trust,” writes Pope Francis. “His patient silence was the prelude to concrete expressions of trust. Our world today needs fathers. … Every true vocation is born of the gift of oneself, which is the fruit of mature sacrifice.” Dcn. Endres shared that when teaching religion class at the parish, he’ll ask attendees, “What were the last words St. Joseph ever said?” The question stumps the students, because there are no recorded words of St. Joseph in Scripture. The spiritual leadership of the Holy Family entrusted to Joseph was done with few words, he explained. “Sometimes Daddy — or any kind of leader, really — doesn’t have to do a lot of talking. The man should lead by his actions. If the kids see you going to church and pray- ing, they’re going to pay more attention,” he said. “That’s how the dad leads — he leads by example and speaks when he needs to.” The Scriptures record that in the years between finding Jesus in the Temple and His Baptism, Jesus “advanced [in] wisdom and age and favor before God and man.” Also known as the silent years of Jesus, this would
Continued on Page 40
39 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 39 COVER STORY Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 39 From Page 39 Scriptures don’t record any words by St. MOST OBEDIENT, MOST FAITHFUL Joseph, they do describe his actions, which “At the end of every account in which be the timeframe in which St. Joseph can have a bigger impact. Joseph plays a role, the Gospel tells us that guided and raised his Son. Joseph would “We just see him by his actions. It’s he gets up, takes the Child and His mother, have taught Him not only carpentry, but important to see what he’s done by taking and does what God commanded him,” Scripture and life skills such as interact- Mary into his home and raising Jesus as writes Pope Francis. “Indeed, Jesus and ing with the world and respecting others, his own child,” the pastor said. “He also Mary His Mother are the most precious reflected Brown. cares for his Son and takes Him away from treasure of our faith.” “St. Joseph is this strong silent type,” the danger by taking Mary and the baby Of the three members of the Holy he said. “I think we can learn a lot from Jesus into Egypt. When Jesus is 12 years Family — Jesus, Mary, and Joseph — the silence of St. Joseph in his calmness old, both Mary and Joseph are in search of Joseph is the only one who was born with and his prayerfulness and his diligence to Jesus, and He was in the temple. We have original sin. This extraordinary ordinari- his family.” words by Mary, but it’s His parents actions ness gives hope to the rest of humanity that Fr. Kelley noted that while the — a father — caring for his child.” sanctity can be attained.
40 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 40 40 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g This statue of St. Faith is a Gift. Joseph with the Child Jesus at Holy Redeemer Parish in Pass it on! Aledo was designed by Monsignor Publius Xuereb, pastor, and was carved by Ferdinand Stuflesser. The statue, along with a matching one of Our Lady, took more than two years to complete. (NTC/Juan Guajardo)
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“We think we have to be extraordinary to be a saint,” said Lopez. “All he did was say, ‘Yes’ to God. He was a righteous man devoted to Scripture, and we can do that in our lives — it’s just a matter of committing to it and following through the way that he did.” Brown said that while St. Joseph hadn’t intended to raise the Son of God when he courted Mary, he “joyfully and willingly picked that up and raised Jesus as his own” — a task he didn’t have to do.
Continued on Page 42
41 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 41 COVER STORY Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 41 A parishioner leaves flowers for St. Joseph at St. Mary of the Assumption Parish in Fort Worth. (NTC/Juan Guajardo)
From Page 41
“He could have so easily walked away, and we see so many families in our time that are torn apart because it’s just too hard, and not fulfilling what we’re given,” Brown said. “It’s more about obedience to one’s state in life. Obedience brings about humility. St. Joseph — through his obedi- ence — grows in humility, grows closer to that moment to spend eternity in God.”
MODEL OF ARTISANS AND PATRON OF WORKERS Because of his role as patron of work- ers, St. Joseph is the adopted patron for Young Catholic Professionals. It’s easy for professionals to compartmentalize their faith when they’re working, said Lopez, the YCP president. That’s why apostolate has the saint as a touchstone. All YCP meetings and events close with the St. Joseph the Worker Prayer, he said. “For us having him as our patron saint, it’s a good way to focus ourselves back to St. Joseph and make him a prom- inent figure in what we’re doing with our lives.” St. Joseph serves as a model for encountering Christ through work, as he must have done in teaching Jesus the carpentry trade, said Brown. “The Holy Fathers right around the mid-19th century, stressed the importance of just work, safe work, the idea of work as more than just a means to a paycheck,” he said. “You can take your prayer into Joseph, chaste guardian the work you do.” Brown, who as a former youth min- ister also led teens for 15 years in con- structing baby cribs at Camp Fort Worth to donate to Gabriel Project, said that for the mothers who will be making use measuring, cutting, and assembling.” beyond the paycheck, work has meaning of these cribs, for the child who will be beyond the action. laying down his head in these cribs, so HOPE OF THE DYING “That’s something we instilled in the that the work that we’re doing is meaning- “Every poor, needy, suffering or dying kids at Camp Fort Worth. We’d begin ful. Our work becomes something greater person, every stranger, every prisoner, the day with teaching them about why inherently than just building something every infirm person is ‘the child’ whom we were building the cribs in the context or creating something. It has a great- Joseph continues to protect,” writes Pope of being pro-life, doing what we can to er purpose with those prayers that are Francis. “For this reason, St. Joseph is end abortion, and giving these mothers attached to it. When you’re building cribs invoked as protector of the unfortunate, a chance,” he said. “It’s not just the work for single mothers in need, there’s a lot the needy, exiles, the afflicted, the poor, and we were doing, but we should be praying you can impart through prayer as you’re the dying.”
42 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 42 42 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g Tradition holds that St. Joseph experienced a “happy death” because he died in the arms of his Saviour, whom he raised, and the Blessed Mother, whom he protected. At the moment of his death, he went from their physical arms to the eternal arms of God the Father, whose role he was asked to fulfill in caring for the Son as his own. Most parochial cemeteries share a name with their attached parishes, which is providential for lifelong Rhinelander Valera Hartel, who has multiple family members buried at St. Joseph Cemetery. “I believe that he helps us at our death,” said Hartel. Joseph, hope of the dying Hartel said she is comforted knowing that her husband, parents, grandparents, A view of a statue of St. Joseph at St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Fort Worth. (NTC/Juan Guajardo) in-laws, and other family members are buried at the cemetery bearing his name. “St. Joseph is the patron of the dying and happy death. He was a worker and a church early on. In late 1891, parish- Founding pastor Father Bonaventure role model for all dads and for family life,” ioners began work on a $6,000 wood Binzegger, OSB, had a devotion to she said, reflecting on the Year of St. Joseph. frame church, but before it could be St. Joseph — a long tradition among “It’s wonderful that the pope is doing this, completed, a December storm destroyed Benedictines — and had wanted to name and I hope there’s a lot of novenas and true the building, according to “A Vow to the parish in his honor. Although parishio- devotions to St. Joseph.” Honor: Muensterites Look to St. Joseph as ners chose Sacred Heart, Fr. Bonaventure Patron and Protector,” by Nicholas Taylor proposed that St. Joseph’s feast day be PROTECTOR OF THE HOLY published in the March 16, 2012 edition recognized as a local holy day. CHURCH of the Muenster Enterprise. Using much of “The townspeople vowed to celebrate “We should always consider whether the material from the previous building, the feast day of St. Joseph as a solemnity to we ourselves are protecting Jesus and Mary, parishioners completed a new church obtain protection from powerful storms,” for they are also mysteriously entrusted in spring 1892 that was dedicated by writes Taylor. “A 1935 newspaper article to our own responsibility, care, and then-Bishop Thomas F. Brennan of Dallas. noting Muenster’s celebration of the saint’s safekeeping,” writes Pope Francis. That church, too, would be destroyed by a feast day wrote, ‘No matter how threatening “God trusted Joseph, as did Mary, tornado on July 31, 1893. the sky may look, they have confidence who found in him someone who would “I always heard from my forefathers in St. Joseph.’ To this day, the Catholic not only save her life but would always that they promised St. Joseph that they residents of Muenster regard St. Joseph’s provide for her and her child,” the would keep that day holy if he would feast as a local holy day and look to the saint pope adds. “In this sense, St. Joseph protect them from the tornadoes,” said for protection.” could not be other than the Guardian 88-year-old lifelong Muensterite Regina Pels has always kept the feast day and of the Church, for the Church is the Pels. “As far as I can tell, we still honor that made sure to pass that devotion along to continuation of the Body of Christ in day. We honor St. Joseph’s Day here.” her children. history, even as Mary’s motherhood After that second storm, parishioners “We think he’s protecting us from get- is reflected in the motherhood of the used money from the insurance policy and ting our church torn down from tornadoes, Church. In his continued protection of materials from the wrecked church to build and he protects our town. That’s the way the Church, Joseph continues to protect a multi-purpose building that would serve we all feel here,” she said. “I put it in my the child and His mother, and we too, by as a church, school, and convent. They children that that’s the day you honor St. our love for the Church, continue to love completed a Gothic style brick church in Joseph for protection. I pray to him every the child and His mother.” 1898, writes Taylor. After parishioners day, and I think my children do, too. When The people of Muenster turned to outgrew that building, a fourth building that day comes along, they see that they go St. Joseph as the protector of their local was completed in 1954 and stands today. to church.”
43 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 43 COVER STORY Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 43 GOOD NEWSMAKER angrace environment of
A desire to follow God takes Omar Montemayor to some unexpected places, including Notre Dame Catholic School
By Susan Moses telling him, “If Notre Dame asks you to But education at Notre Dame goes become the principal, be open to it.” beyond the quality of the classroom. mar Montemayor has made Two weeks later, he got the request. Montemayor encapsulates his educational some turns in his life’s jour- Daniel Escobedo, president of the philosophy with the phrase “academic ney. Along the way, God has school, which dates to 1904, said, “God excellence in an environment of grace.” signaled some changes in sent Omar at the right time.” His admin- He said, “It’s hard for us as teachers to Odirection. And once God even used a red istrative experience “brings a seasoned just slow down and realize that we’re doing light. perspective to the policies and procedures” this in an environment of grace. God is After four years of retirement, 19 years that are essential when guiding a school present with us. And God can do so many as principal or vice principal of Wichita through a pandemic. great things with us and with the students Falls public schools, plus 13 more years But more importantly, according to He’s given us.” teaching elementary and middle school Escobedo, is that Montemayor arrived Justin Blackwell, Ph.D., a Notre Dame students, Montemayor’s path has taken talking about pursuing academic excel- parent and calculus teacher, can testify to him to Notre Dame Catholic School in lence on his first day. the influence that an educator can have. Wichita Falls. “He asked, ‘How can a school be Years ago, Montemayor was Blackwell’s “Retirement seems like a distant excellent?’ and helped us understand it’s a social studies teacher (and chess instructor) memory,” Montemayor laughed. “But I do pursuit, a drive that affects how we behave in fifth and sixth grades, and Blackwell believe I’m supposed to be here until the every day,” Escobedo said. said the teacher’s enthusiasm made all the Lord tells me otherwise.” Montemayor witnessed improvements students eager to learn. During Montemayor’s retirement, in teaching methods during his 32 years in In fact, being Montemayor’s student he increased his involvement with North public education that he now implements encouraged Blackwell to consider a profes- Texas Brothers for Christ and at his parish, in Notre Dame classrooms. sion in teaching. Our Lady Queen of Peace, where he’s “Teaching is one of the most difficult Blackwell considers it “an honor” to helped with men’s ministry, along with jobs in the world. It’s time consuming, it’s be teaching with him at Notre Dame and music and youth. He even volunteered to strenuous, and a teacher wears so many credits the administrator with nurturing head the chess club at Notre Dame. different hats,” Montemayor explained the environment of grace. For exam- However, in his fourth year of retire- with the voice of experience. In fact, he ple, the principal schedules time during ment, God indicated a new plan. In teaches religion to seventh-grade students teacher training sessions for prayer and prayer, Montemayor sensed God was each day. reflection, emphasizing that highly capable
44 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g Omar Montemayor in the halls of Notre Dame Catholic School in Wichita Falls. (NTC/Juan Guajardo)
teaching and strong faith will thrive all the graces that the Father, the Son, and group he attended and in his studies of the together. the Holy Spirit have given us — the conduit Reformation. Montemayor has a bachelor’s degree for that is the Church. I’m almost speech- In his senior year of college, he in history, a master’s in school administra- less because it is so profound that God has planned to attend a long weekend for pro- tion, and has completed the coursework given to the Church all these graces — the spective students at a Methodist seminary. for a master’s degree in theology and most sacraments, Mary, all the saints, all the Yet his heart whispered notions of becom- of a doctorate in education. It’s no surprise tradition — I’m profoundly grateful. If we ing Catholic. He asked God to give him a that he spent much of his retirement read- just accept that from the Church, this world sign. ing books. would be a better place.”The thought of En route to the seminary, his brakes Some of those books concerned him. being an ambassador for Catholic edu- failed, causing moments of terror as he In delving into the current state of the cation would have been unbelievable to ran one red light, then another. He never Catholic Church, he studied the tendency Montemayor in his youth. arrived at seminary, which he considered of children who are raised Catholic to drift The son of a Methodist minister, God’s intervention. Afterwards, he began away from the faith as adults. Bucking that he rebelled in his early teens until God the steps to join the Catholic Church. trend, his reading indicated, are students touched him in an intense way at the age After college, a quick stint as a school educated in Catholic schools. of 16. In a dream, he heard the voice of custodian turned into an opportunity He said, “Catholic education is God say, “Blessed are the children, for to to teach. Montemayor discovered his extremely important for the survival of them belongs the Kingdom of Heaven.” vocation in education, and he realized the Church. I think my purpose is to help “It just saved my life,” he recalled. the meaning of God’s message: “Blessed foster that.” “From darkness to the light of Christ.” are the children, for to them belongs the Montemayor wants his students, their His ambition changed from being Kingdom of Heaven.” parents, and all faithful to understand the an architect to becoming a Methodist Now, as principal of Notre Dame, he richness of the Catholic faith. He said, minister. But he felt the tug of Catholicism cooperates with the grace of God to help “The promise of the Blessed Trinity and through a Catholic charismatic prayer students understand that message, too.
Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 45 THE DOMESTIC CHURCH
Catholic All the Way
A FIRM FOUNDATION: Helmuth and Christy attended Catholic schools through high school and are giving their children the same opportunity. Christy said, “We all were able to practice and learn about our faith on a daily basis. A strong focus on academics and service to others has shaped the type of followers of Christ we are today.”
FINISH STRONG: Helmuth said, “We make it a point to say our night prayer together each night as a family. This gives us time to come together to give thanks to God for all the gifts He has given us and ask for His guidance, help, and mercy in the challenges in our lives. I believe this provides not only a guaranteed time for us to be together with each other, but with God as well, and has helped our kids develop a strong prayer life.”
GROWING STRONGER: Married 20 years, Helmuth and Christy believe strong faith helps build a strong marriage. They credit Catholic education and the examples and guidance of their parents with helping their faith grow stronger. Serving the parish and community together helps unite the family. Helmuth said, “Sharing our faith with each other and with our children as they grow and mature in their spiritual lives brings us closer.”
THEY ARE: Helmuth and Christy Koelzer and their children (from left) Zachary, Nicholas, Amanda, and Scott, parishioners at St. John the Apostle Church in North Richland Hills. (NTC/Ben Torres)
4646 NNoo r r t t h hTTee x x a a s sCCatat h h o o l ilc i c.o.o r gr g First-generation college student Ricky Espinoza at Vernon College. (NTC/Juan Guajardo)
Navigating Around Educational Hurdles
By Mary Lou Seewoester from in-person to online classes, helped at least twice monthly with each of their their own children get through online students. n 2020, the Catholic Charities Fort classes, and continued their full or part- When the pandemic forced schools into Worth Rural Vocation Program helped time jobs. online learning, Ricky Espinoza had never I382 low-income community college “Within a week our students trans- owned his own computer or participated in students in rural areas face the obstacles formed themselves,” Gauthier said. “They a virtual class. So, when he started classes at of a global pandemic. Of those students, didn’t miss a beat. They just embraced Vernon College this past fall, his navigator 116 graduated or transferred to a four-year those changes.” helped him acquire a laptop from the Stand college. She said case managers (called client Together Foundation, a CCFW partner. Rita Gauthier, CCFW Northwest navigators) helped students with their most Espinoza discovered the Rural Campus director of client services, said the immediate needs, such as access to com- Vocation Program last year when he was program also maintained its high per- puters, internet connectivity, or financial a high school senior. The youth minister sistence rate despite pandemic challenges, assistance due to job loss. at Holy Family Parish in Vernon invited a with 94 percent of students returning to “We had students going to the parking navigator to visit the youth group. school between summer and fall semesters. lot of their schools to do homework and “I’m a first-generation college student,” In comparison, Gauthier observed that take tests because that’s where they could Espinoza said. “So when it was time to most rural colleges in Texas have an 18-22 get internet access,” Gauthier said. register for college, I couldn’t turn to my percent completion rate. “We don’t lose She said navigators contacted local family.” students like schools that don’t have this internet providers for reduced-cost internet He said his navigator guided him intervention,” she said. or hot spots for students. They also worked through the registration process, helped The secret to that success is holistic with CCFW to access grant funds and con- him schedule the Texas Success Initiative case management, Gauthier noted. In fact, tact philanthropic partners for laptops. Assessment needed for admittance, and with holistic case management, strategic The Rural Vocation Program serves even helped gather textbooks. financial assistance, and personal and 25 active students on each of eight commu- “Having someone to guide me financial coaching, many students were nity college campuses and at Midwestern throughout college — to answer any well prepared for the changes forced on State University in Wichita Falls, Gauthier questions … made it a lot easier and less them by the pandemic. They switched explained. Ten full-time navigators meet stressful,” Espinoza said.
Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 47 CATHOLIC CHARITIES Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2020 47 TAKE 5 WITH FATHER
Time for God and Others
HE IS: Father Vijaya Raju Mareedu, SAC, pastor of St. Rita Sacrament, a habit he continues. “You may not speak, but He Parish in Ranger, Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Parish in Cisco, will speak to you.” St. Francis Xavier Parish in Eastland, and St. John Parish in Strawn. ORDINATION: April 22, 2015. The young priest served in a school and as an associate pastor. GROWING UP: The youngest of three, he grew up in Andhra Pradesh, India. HOWDY, NEIGHBOR: When Fr. VJ came His father, a “simple, God-fearing man,” to the diocese in 2018, he contacted every fam- worked as an electrician at a Montfort ily registered in his four parishes and met with school, which allowed his children to have them, which took about a year. “Giving time is a Catholic education. His father told him, the best thing I can give.” “I will not give you gold, I will not give you land, but education is the most important LESSONS FROM A PALLOTTINE: thing.” “Wherever you can, respond to the need of the time with the help of God. Do the best THE CALL: Fr. VJ, as he’s fondly called, we can in the place where we are, in the admitted to being more interested in play- time we are in.” ing basketball and cricket than in his studies. As a tenth-grade student, MERCY OF GOD: “Whenever he saw crowds of people people come for confession, crying after the local I give the presence bishop’s death and it of Christ, with made a big impression. great attention, He thought, “People with great are crying because he love, which has done something springs good; there is some- from the thing good in doing Word of for the other.” God.”
HIGHER EDUCATION: Fr. VJ entered the Pallottine seminary. “I had been weak in studies, but once I realized I need to be something for some- body, it never stopped me.”
HOLY HABITS: During his novitiate, he began spending 30 minutes a day in front of the Blessed
48 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g NTC/Juan Guajardo SEEKING GOD’S PATH
The Campaign of Lent
he Collect for the Liturgy of Ash A young man considering whether readings. Wednesday, the day which marks or not he may be called to follow Jesus • In the free time between moving from T the beginning of our 40 days of as a priest must be open and attuned to one thing to the next (e.g., between preparation for the celebration the various ways God has and is classes, waiting for an appointment, of the Paschal Mystery, calls working in his life. Moreover, the etc.), instead of immediately reach- Lent a “campaign.” space that is laid open before the ing for your cellphone, take a few Admittedly, when I hear Lord in the heart of a young man moments to simply acknowledge the this word, my mind drifts and I must also see that the work God is presence of God. often associate “campaign” with doing in his life is both an oppor- running for a political office tunity and invitation to allow • Give Our Lord your daily challenges or kicking off a project like a Him to work further and to lead and sufferings, whatever they may be. capital campaign. Therefore, in us where He wants us to go. • At the conclusion of the day, take the a certain sense, I’ve had to pray Fr. Matthew Tatyrek Maybe during these next time to do an examen (i.e., prayerful to unlearn its meaning and to Lenten days, rather than solely reflection on the events of the day in seek out what it truly is. focusing our attention on what we are giv- order to detect God’s presence and “Campaign,” like so many words in ing up or sacrificing, we could focus on the discern His direction for us). English, is derived from the Latin word, possibility — the opportunity — of adding campus. Campus means an open or flat something (i.e., a discipline or practice) to • Thank God for the blessings of the space; a plain. It also can mean an oppor- our Lenten journey. Each Lent provides us day and resolve to correct faults. tunity. In light of the various definitions, with an opportunity to cultivate and deep- how might they be applied to Lent? en our relationship, our friendship with By opening himself more and by Furthermore, how might those meanings Christ, which opens us more to receive His availing himself of the many opportunities apply to a young man who is thinking of love and grace. to receive the grace that our Lord offers to the priesthood of Jesus? If a young man reading this article is him, a young man thinking and praying The season of Lent aims at prepar- having difficulty determining what to do for about the priesthood can have a successful ing us for Easter. By our attention to the Lent, perhaps he can start with a few, if not “campaign” of Lent. Maybe adding some three disciplines of fasting, almsgiving, all of these recommendations: of these practical suggestions, instead of and prayer, we open ourselves like an open solely giving up things, is a good way to plain — we open a space in our hearts in • Get out of bed immediately upon start. order that we might be more attuned to hearing your alarm and strive to make the manifold ways God has worked and is a good morning offering. working inside each one of us, as well as to Ordained to the priesthood in 2016, Father • Ask God each day for the grace to what opportunities God wants us to pursue Matthew Tatyrek serves as pastor of St. Peter seek His will above your own. and consider further in order to more Parish in Lindsay and as Vocations Liaison with closely ally ourselves with His holy will. • Meditate upon the daily Mass the Vocations Office.
NTC/Juan Guajardo Ma r c h / Ap r i l 2021 49 San José con el Niño Jesús. (NTC/Juan Guajardo)
José, más obediente
50 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 50 50 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g padreSAN JOSÉ, modelo Católicos locales relatan las lecciones aprendidas del “Santo Silencioso” durante el Año Santo de San José
Por Tony Gutiérrez
l último día de abril del 1994 tiene el récord de la mayor cantidad de tornados ocurridos en un mismo día en el Norte de Texas. Linda Sepanski de laE Parroquia del Sagrado Corazón de Muenster recuerda todavía cuando ella fue ese día a buscar a su hija Kate de segundo grado a la escuela parroquial. Sus otras dos hijas estaban en casa, pero Kate estaba en la escuela ensayando para su Primera Comunión, recuerda Sepanski. Cuando llegó a la escuela uno de los feligreses de la parroquia le indicó que fuera al sótano de la iglesia, ya que el cielo comenzaba a oscurecerse. Vio que una religiosa estaba rezando el Rosario con los estudiantes en el sótano. Los tornados azotaron ese día a Alvord, Bowie, St. Jo y Windthorst. Uno de ellos de categoría EF2 causó graves daños en la ciudad de Gainesville, que queda a poca distancia. Por la gracia de Dios, Muenster no sufrió daños. De hecho, Muenster se ha librado de daños desde el 1893, cuando sus ciudadanos, que en su mayoría eran católicos, dedicaron sus vidas a San José invocando su protección. “Mami, desearía que Muenster pudiera estar en todas partes”, recuerda Sepanski que su hija de 4 años, Lauren, le dijo en ese momento. Le dije a mi hija: “Cariño, Muenster no puede estar en todas partes, pero la gente desde cualquier lugar puede pedirle a San José que ore por ellos”. Al promulgar este año como el Año Santo de
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51 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 51 NOTICIAS Ma r z o / Ab r i l 2021 51 La imagen y el vitral de San José en la Parroquia del Sagrado Corazón de Muenster. (NTC/Juan De la Página 51 Guajardo)
San José del 8 de diciembre del 2020 al 8 de diciembre del 2021, el Papa Francisco espera promover una especial devoción al padre adoptivo de Jesús en todo el mundo.
El Año Santo “San José es un elemento importante de nuestra Iglesia y de lo que somos como personas de fe”, dijo el Padre Dan Kelley, el párroco de la Parroquia de San José de Arlington. “Es muy importante que nosotros reconozcamos el valor y el mérito de San José, y tener esa imagen de padre en nuestras familias”, el Padre Kelley agregó. “Sé que hay muchas familias que luchan con esta idea debido a que en nuestra sociedad actual algunas familias no tienen al padre viviendo en sus hogares”. Greg Brown, Diputado de Distrito de los Caballeros de Colón, está animando a todos los consejos de su jurisdicción a rezar durante el Año Santo una novena a San José como grupo una vez este año y a compartir la literatura espiritual de los Caballeros de Colón del programa de “Servicios de información católica” con sus respectivas parroquias. “Como hermanos Caballeros, admiramos y deseamos imitar a San José para ser devotos de Dios, ser diligentes en nuestro testimonio como cristianos, y practicar y defender la fe que José, ejemplo de silencio compartimos en común”, dijo Brown. “Ésa es la raíz y fundamento de lo que somos”, prosiguió diciendo. A pesar de la devoción que ya le tenía a San José, el Diácono Gary Endres, recién ordenado, que nació y ha vivido como un buen diácono”. las cosas”, continuó el Papa. “No pensó en toda la vida en Muenster, dijo que su sí mismo, sino que se centró en la vida de devoción ha aumentado desde que pasó Casto guardián de la Virgen María y Jesús”. por su proceso de discernimiento y En su decreto al anunciar el comienzo Aunque casados, José y María vivieron formación al diaconado. del año especial dedicado a San José, el y formaron una familia juntos sin tener “Mi segundo nombre es José, por lo Papa Francisco escribió: “La castidad es una relación sexual. Como su “esposa más que San José siempre ha sido mi santo la libertad de la posesividad en todas las casta”, como se recita en las Alabanzas patrón”, dijo el Diácono Endres. “Rezo esferas de la vida. Sólo cuando el amor Divinas, José mantuvo un respeto a San José y a Santa María para que es casto, es amor de verdad. La lógica del reverencial por su virginidad perpetua y nos protejan con el poder de Dios. Sin amor es siempre la lógica de la libertad, no sólo la protegió, sino que permaneció darme cuenta, mi devoción a San José ha y José supo amar con extraordinaria siempre fiel a ella. aumentado. Le pedí muchas veces que libertad”. Alex López, presidente del Capítulo me ayudara a ser un buen padre y servir “Él nunca se convirtió en el centro de de Jóvenes Católicos Profesionales de Fort
52 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 52 52 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g Worth, dijo que, al igual que San José, espera ser paciente, afectuoso y comprensivo, sin dejar de mantener una fuerte masculinidad, para prepararse para su futura familia. López es un feligrés de la Parroquia de San José de Arlington, donde canta en el coro. Dijo: “Es realmente alentador saber que San José pudo ser una base tan sólida para su familia. Como un adulto joven y hombre, quiero mantener a mi futura familia y servir de cimiento para las personas que me rodean”.
Ejemplo de silencio “José encontró la felicidad no en el mero sacrificio de sí mismo, sino en el don de sí mismo. En él, nunca vemos frustración, sólo confianza”, escribe el Papa Francisco. “Su paciente silencio fue el preludio de expresiones concretas de confianza. Nuestro mundo de hoy necesita padres… Toda verdadera vocación nace del don de uno mismo, que es fruto de un sacrificio maduro”. El Diácono Endres comentó que cuando enseña la clase de religión en la parroquia, pregunta a los asistentes: “¿Cuáles fueron las últimas palabras que dijo San José?” La pregunta desconcierta a los estudiantes porque en las Escrituras no aparece escrita ninguna palabra de San José. El liderazgo espiritual de la Sagrada Familia confiado a José se hizo con pocas palabras, explicó. “A veces el papá, o cualquier tipo de líder, en realidad, no tiene que hablar mucho. El hombre debe liderar mediante sus acciones. Si los niños te ven que vas a la iglesia y que oras, van a prestar más atención”, señaló. “Así es como el papá lidera: predica con el ejemplo y habla cuando lo necesita”. Las Escrituras nos dicen que durante los años que pasaron después de encontrar a Jesús en el templo hasta Su bautismo, Jesús “creció en sabiduría, edad y favor ante Dios y los hombres”. Estos mismos años son también conocidos como los años silenciosos de Jesús. Éste sería el período de tiempo durante el cual San José guió y educó a su hijo. José le habría enseñado no sólo el oficio de la carpintería, sino además el estudio de las Escrituras y las destrezas esenciales para la vida, como, por ejemplo, la interacción con su mundo y el respeto a los demás, reflexionó Brown.
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53 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 53 NOTICIAS Ma r z o / Ab r i l 2021 53 La estatua de San José en los jardines de la Parroquia de San José de Arlington. (NTC/Juan Guajardo) José, esperanza de los moribundos
De la Página 53 él se levanta, toma al Niño y a su madre y hace lo que Dios le ordena”, escribe “San José es del tipo de padre fuerte y el Papa Francisco. “De hecho, Jesús silencioso”, continuó diciendo. “Creo que y María, su Madre, son el tesoro más podemos aprender mucho del silencio de preciado de nuestra fe”. San José a través de su calma, su profunda De los tres miembros de la Sagrada oración y la diligencia al cuidar de su Familia, Jesús, María y José, José es el familia”. único que nació con el pecado original. El Padre Kelley señaló que, si bien las Esta cotidianeidad extraordinaria da Escrituras no incluyen ninguna palabra esperanza al resto de la humanidad de de San José, sí describen sus acciones, que que se puede alcanzar la santidad. pueden tener un impacto mayor. “Creemos que tenemos que ser “Simplemente conocemos a San extraordinarios para ser santos”, dijo José a través del lente de sus acciones. Es López. “Todo lo que hizo fue decir ‘Sí’ importante ver lo que hace al llevar a María a Dios. San José fue un hombre justo a su casa y criar a Jesús como su propio hijo”, y devoto de las Escrituras, y podemos dijo el párroco. “Él también se preocupa hacer lo mismo en nuestras vidas, es por su Hijo y lo aleja del peligro llevando a sólo una cuestión de comprometernos a María y al niño Jesús a Egipto. Cuando Jesús hacerlo y realizarlo de la manera que él tiene 12 años, tanto María como José salen lo hizo”. en busca de Jesús y lo hallan en el templo. Brown dijo que si bien San José no Tenemos solamente las palabras de María, tenía la intención de criar al Hijo de Dios pero son ambos padres, tanto la madre como cuando cortejó a María, él “con alegría y el padre, que cuidan de su hijo”. por su propia voluntad aceptó esa misión y crió a Jesús como su propio hijo”, una Más obediente, más fiel tarea que no tenía que hacer. “Al final de cada relato en el que José “Pudo haberse marchado fácilmente, juega un papel, el Evangelio nos dice que y vemos tantas familias en nuestro
5 4 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 54 5 4 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g La estatua de San José en la Parroquia de Santa María de la Asunción de Fort Worth. (NTC/Juan Guajardo) tiempo que están destrozadas porque es demasiado difícil y no están cumpliendo con lo que se les ha dado”, dijo Brown. “Se trata más de la obediencia al estado de la vida de uno. La obediencia trae humildad. San José, a través de su obediencia, crece en humildad, se acerca a ese momento en que pasará la eternidad con Dios”.
Modelo de los artesanos y patrón de los trabajadores Debido a su papel como patrón de los trabajadores, San José es el patrón adoptado por los Jóvenes Profesionales Católicos (YCP, por siglas en inglés). “Resulta fácil para los profesionales separar en compartimentos su fe cuando están trabajando”, dijo López. “Tener a San José como nuestro santo patrón es una buena manera de enfocarnos de nuevo en San José y convertirlo en una figura prominente en lo que estamos haciendo en nuestras vidas”. Todas las reuniones y eventos de los Jóvenes Profesionales Católicos acaban con la Oración de San José el Trabajador, dijo. San José sirve como modelo para encontrar a Cristo a través del trabajo, como debe haberlo hecho al enseñarle a Jesús el oficio de carpintería, dijo Brown. “Los Santos Padres escribieron sobre eso, enfatizaron la importancia del trabajo justo, el trabajo seguro, la José, guardián casto idea del trabajo como algo más que un medio para ganarse simplemente un sueldo”, dijo. “Puedes llevar tu oración al trabajo que haces”. Brown trabajó en el ministerio de jóvenes y dirigió a los adolescentes durante 15 años para construyendo las cunas en el contexto de será significativo. Nuestro trabajo se construir cunas de bebés en Camp Fort ser pro-vida, haciendo lo que podamos convierte inherentemente en algo más Worth y donarlas al Proyecto Gabriel. Él para eliminar con el aborto y darles una grande que simplemente construir algo o agregó que más allá de recibir el cheque oportunidad a estas madres”, dijo. “No crear algo. Adquiere un propósito mayor de pago, el trabajo tiene un significado sólo se trata del trabajo que estamos con las oraciones que se le atribuyen. que trasciende la acción. haciendo, sino también del deber de orar Cuando se construyen cunas para “Eso es algo que inculcamos a por las madres que usarán estas cunas, madres solteras necesitadas, es mucho lo los niños que participan en Camp de rezar por los bebés que recostarán que se puede impartir y enseñar a través Fort Worth. Comenzábamos el día sus cabecitas en estas cunas, y de esta de la oración mientras se mide, se corta y enseñándoles por qué estábamos manera el trabajo que estamos haciendo se ensambla”.
55 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 55 NOTICIAS Ma r z o / Ab r i l 2021 55 comprobación de hechos Aclaración de conceptos erróneos y respuestas a algunas preguntas sobre las vacunas contra el COVID-19
Por Juan Guajardo
ay que señalar como un hecho que Los Expertos durante la pandemia todos hemos sido afectados de una forma u otra por la desinformación o las mentiras El Reverendísimo Obispo Michael Olson estudió en el emitidas.H Por ejemplo, considere Logically, la Centro de Ética del Cuidado de la Salud en la Tradición empresa más grande del mundo dedicada a Católica durante cinco años y tiene un doctorado en la comprobación de datos y a desenmascarar Teología Mora de la Academia Alfonsiana de Roma. noticias falsas. Su equipo de científicos de datos, También se desempeñó como representante de la verificadores de datos profesionales, periodistas, comunidad en el Comité de Ética para la Investigación investigadores, desarrolladores, que incorporaron con Sujetos Humanos en el Centro Médico de la la inteligencia artificial, descubrieron en el 2019 Universidad de Texas de Houston. que un preocupante 12 a 14 por ciento de los artículos sobre las elecciones del Reino Unido e India no eran confiables y que contenían información errónea. Transpórtese al año El Padre Tad Pacholczyk, Ph.D., tiene un doctorado en 2020. Una pandemia mundial, extremistas que Neurociencia de Yale y se desempeña como Director surgen de nuestro propio suelo, una elección de Educación en el Centro Nacional Católico de estadounidense y, por supuesto, una cantidad Bioética de Filadelfia. El Padre Tad escribe una columna enorme de información nueva errónea. Logically, mensual llamada “Making Sense of Bioethics” (Haciendo acaba de llegar a la situación estadounidense sentido de la Bioética), que se publica regularmente en durante el verano del 2020, en el que me puedo NorthTexasCatholic.org. imaginar que las estadísticas de desinformación superarán con creces las estadísticas mencionadas anteriormente del 2019. De manera similar, ha habido mucha La Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de los EE. UU. información errónea con respecto a las vacunas emitió múltiples declaraciones en los últimos dos contra el COVID, específicamente, existen meses con respecto a las vacunas contra el COVID-19. varias preocupaciones sobre la moralidad y la El Comité de la Doctrina y el Comité de Actividades Pro- enseñanza católica. Para abordar estos temas vida fueron algunos de los principales contribuyentes North Texas Catholic decidió hablar con varios a estos documentos, entre ellos: ”Consideraciones expertos en el campo de la moralidad y la ética, morales sobre las nuevas vacunas contra el COVID-19” y y extrajo directamente la información publicada “Respuestas a preguntas éticas clave sobre las vacunas por la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de los contra el COVID-19” (se hace referencia aquí a ambos EE. UU. y sus comités de ética y pro-vida. documentos).
56 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 56 56 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g ¿Es cierto que algunas de las dos vacunas, Pfizer y Moderna, se debe elegir entonces la vacuna vacunas que combaten el que se distribuyen para su uso con la menor conexión con COVID-19 tienen una conexión en los Estados Unidos, y hay las líneas celulares derivadas con el aborto? otras que probablemente estarán del aborto. Si una vacuna sin disponibles en los próximos conexión con las líneas celulares Los Obispos de los EE. UU.: meses. Como, por ejemplo, las derivadas del aborto no está Sí. Hace varias décadas, el tejido de AstraZeneca, Janssen, etc... disponible, las vacunas que usan extraído de los cuerpos de los Ni la vacuna de Pfizer ni la de tales líneas celulares sólo para bebés abortados se utilizó para Moderna utilizaron una línea las pruebas serían preferibles a crear ciertas líneas celulares con celular derivada del aborto en las que usan tales líneas celulares fines de investigación. Las células el desarrollo o producción de la para la producción en curso. Sin de estas líneas son, de hecho, vacuna. Sin embargo, esta línea embargo, es probable que tales descendientes de aquellas células celular se utilizó para probar la alternativas no sean posibles, que se recogieron originalmente. eficacia de ambas vacunas. Por especialmente en las primeras Se han hecho de tal manera que lo tanto, aunque ninguna de las etapas de la distribución de pueden replicarse a sí mismas y vacunas está completamente la vacuna. En ese caso, uno algunas líneas celulares pueden libre de cualquier uso de líneas puede recibir cualquiera de reproducirse indefinidamente. celulares derivadas del aborto, las vacunas recomendadas Estas líneas celulares derivadas en estos dos casos el uso está clínicamente en buena conciencia del aborto se utilizan como una muy apartado del mal inicial con la seguridad de que recibir “fábrica” para crear ciertas del aborto. Las vacunas de cualquiera de tales vacunas no vacunas (por ejemplo, rubéola, AstraZeneca y Janssen plantean implica la cooperación inmoral varicela, algunas de las vacunas preocupaciones morales con el aborto. contra el COVID-19, etc.) Las adicionales porque una línea células en sí mismas, sin embargo, celular derivada del aborto se no están presentes en las vacunas usa no sólo para hacer pruebas, que reciben los pacientes. sino también en el desarrollo y la ¿Qué ha dicho el Vaticano sobre producción de las vacunas. la permisibilidad moral de recibir estas vacunas?
¿Utilizan las vacunas contra Padre Tad: Algunos católicos el COVID-19 líneas celulares Como cristianos católicos, ¿está intentan dar a entender que el derivadas del aborto? bien si nos ponemos estas verdadero sentir de la Iglesia vacunas? es en realidad opuesto a recibir Los Obispos de los EE. UU.: A vacunas asociadas con el aborto la fecha de este escrito, cientos Los Obispos de los EE. UU.: (a pesar de que tanto el Papa de vacunas contra el COVID-19 Dado que el virus COVID-19 Francisco como el Papa Benedicto se están desarrollando en todo puede implicar graves riesgos XVI han sido vacunados con el mundo y más de una docena para la salud, puede ser la vacuna de Pfizer). Sugieren se encuentran en las etapas moralmente aceptable recibir que la verdadera doctrina de la finales de prueba. Algunas no una vacuna que use líneas Iglesia se está reasignando de usan líneas celulares derivadas celulares derivadas del aborto, si cierto modo a raíz del nuevo del aborto en absoluto, otras no hay otras vacunas disponibles fenómeno del COVID-19. han usado tales líneas celulares comparables con respecto a Ante tales afirmaciones, es para probar la eficacia de la su seguridad y eficacia que no necesario recordarle a la gente, vacuna y varias están usando tengan conexión con el aborto. “Esto en realidad no es nada dichas líneas celulares en las Si es posible elegir entre varias nuevo” — desde el 2005, luego fases de su desarrollo y/o vacunas contra el COVID-19 producción. Actualmente hay igualmente seguras y efectivas, Continúa en la Página 58
57 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 57 NOTICIAS Ma r z o / Ab r i l 2021 57 AMBIENTE SEGURO Para Reportar Mala Conducta Sexual: De la Página 57 como inversionistas, podemos Si usted o alguien que usted ayudar a cambiar la cultura, en conoce es víctima de abuso sexual de un examen cuidadoso cierto sentido, presionando a por parte de cualquiera que sirve y amplio del tema, y en nuestros accionistas, de modo a la Iglesia, puede: múltiples ocasiones, la Iglesia que no sólo seamos partes ha concluido y enseñado no interesadas, sino accionistas. Y Llamar a la Línea Directa de sólo que está permitido recibir creo que éstas son algunas de Asistencia a Víctimas: (817) vacunas producidas que las cosas que podemos hacer. Lo 602-5119. utilizan estas líneas celulares más importante es que debemos problemáticas cuando existe orar, pero también tomar las Llamar el Director una razón proporcional, como medidas necesarias para lograr Diocesano de Ambiente una amenaza para la salud, un verdadero cambio. Seguro: (817) 945-9334 y pero que también tenemos el dejar un mensaje. deber de impulsar alternativas y presionar para que el uso de Llamar al Canciller de la tales células no continúe. ¿Implica el uso de la Diócesis: (817) 945-9315. Esto se afirmó por nanotecnología de hidrogel primera vez en el 2005 en un para administrar estas vacunas Para Reportar Abuso documento de la Pontificia ARNm (ARN mensajero) que o si Sospecha de Abuso: Academia para la Vida. Se se implantarán microchips en Si usted sospecha de abuso de un afirmó nuevamente en el mi cuerpo? niño, anciano, o adulto vulnerable, o 2008 en un documento de la si abuso ha sido revelado a usted, Congregación para la Doctrina Padre Tad: Las vacunas de la Fe. Se volvió a afirmar no tienen microchips. La Si alguien está en peligro en el 2017 en un documento nanotecnología de hidrogel se inmediato, llame al 911 de la Pontificia Academia para refiere a las “nanopartículas la Vida. Por último, y más lipídicas” que encierran el Llame al Departamento de recientemente, en diciembre ARNm. Ésta es una forma Servicios para la Familia y del 2020 otro documento de la glorificada de decir “gotita de de Protección (DFPS) de Congregación para la Doctrina aceite muy pequeña”. Nuestras Texas al (800) 252-5400. de la Fe expresó las mismas membranas celulares están conclusiones. compuestas de lípidos, por lo Reporte inmediatamente el que cuando se inyecta la vacuna presunto abuso a su supervisor, de ARNm, el lípido de la sacerdote o director, y presente partícula de la vacuna se fusiona el Aviso Confidencial de ¿Qué podemos hacer los con el lípido de la célula (como Preocupación con la información católicos y otras personas dos gotitas de aceite que se requerida por DFPS. que defienden la santidad de fusionan) y la pieza de ARNm Para más información sobre nuestros la vida para protestar contra se deposita en el interior de la programas de prevención de abuso, el uso de las líneas celulares célula (“transfección”). visite fwdioc.org/safe-environment derivadas del aborto? Estas “nanopartículas lipídicas” podrían teóricamente utilizarse El Obispo Olson: Creo que el indebidamente para administrar primer paso es, por supuesto, otras sustancias controvertidas tomar conciencia de esto. En al cuerpo como los microchips, segundo lugar, todas estas pero esto no significa que no empresas son corporaciones deban usarse para fines válidos, públicas que cotizan en la bolsa. como lo es administrar vacunas Por eso creo que, para aquéllos de ARNm que pueden salvar de nosotros que invertimos y, si vidas durante una pandemia y su tenemos una responsabilidad desarrollo.
58 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 58 58 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g UN ETERNO INTERCESOR
La comunidad de St. Matthew en Arlington lamenta el fallecimiento de su párroco
Por Violeta Rocha
on profunda de St. Matthew, “Deja un tristeza, pero gran legado en nuestra con la certeza de parroquia. Sabíamos que continuarC su profundo podíamos contar con su legado de fe, la comunidad apoyo. Ayudó con muchas parroquial de St. Matthew remodelaciones de la en Arlington está de luto parroquia, siempre pedía la ante el triste y repentino opinión de las personas, y fallecimiento del Padre lo que él decidía sabíamos Alejandro Hernández que era por el bien de St. García, confiados de la Matthew”, asegura Soto. llegada a la “casa del Su gran devoción a Padre” de su “párroco, jefe la Virgen de Guadalupe y amigo”. era palpable. No sólo Tras ser hospitalizado durante las memorables durante los últimos Fiestas Guadalupanas días de enero debido al del 12 de diciembre cada COVID-19, el Padre año, sino también en cada Alejandro Hernández Padre Alejandro Hernández García celebración litúrgica y García, CORC, falleció el 3 en cada bendición que de febrero a los 48 años. daba. Comenzó el rezo del Rosario junto al Grupo El Obispo Michael Olson celebró la Misa fúnebre Guadalupano hace 5 años. para el Padre Alejandro el viernes 12 en la Parroquia “Los Rosarios son un legado que nos deja y los de St. Matthew. seguiremos haciendo. Pedimos por toda la comunidad Era originario de Córdoba, Veracruz, en México, parroquial, por nuestros sacerdotes y por nuestro y fue ordenado sacerdote en el 1999 por la sociedad Obispo”, dijo Marina González, coordinadora del religiosa, la Confraternidad de Operarios del Reino Grupo Guadalupano, sobre los Rosarios de cada de Cristo, tras responder a su llamado vocacional a primer sábado del mes. los 17 años, cuando ingresó al seminario para hacerse Ella aseguró que, aunque la tristeza por su partida sacerdote. física está presente, “mediante la fe, sabemos que él Su primera asignación como párroco fue en la esta con Dios”. Parroquia de St. Matthew en el 2016, uniéndose a González es también lectora y formó parte otros sacerdotes de la Confraternidad de Operarios de varios retiros espirituales que constantemente del Reino de Cristo que ya laboraban para la Diócesis organizaba el Padre Alejandro para cada uno de los de Fort Worth. ministerios parroquiales. “Siempre fomentó el amor a “Es muy triste entrar a la oficina y no verlo”, relata María Soto, contadora y directora de negocios Continúa en la Página 62
59 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 59 NOTICIAS Ma r z o / Ab r i l 2021 59 un maravilloso ejemplo de cristo
Antiguo Párroco de la Iglesia de Todos Los Santos, Padre Stephen Jasso, TOR, fallece a los 88 años
By Joan Kurkowski-Gillen
l Padre Stephen Jasso, TOR, Padre Jasso como un franciscano fiel Jasso sirvió en las Fuerzas Armadas de párroco jubilado de la que como pastor cuidó por 23 años los Estados Unidos durante la Guerra Parroquia de Todos los Santos a su rebaño de Todos los Santos con de Corea, donde obtuvo el rango de Ede Fort Worth y un defensor ferviente gran entrega y dedicación. Respetado sargento de primera clase. muy respetado de la creciente y admirado por funcionarios del Después de obtener su título población hispana de la región, gobierno y del servicio público, la universitario en St. Francis College en siempre enseñó a través de sus obras. influencia del finado párroco se Pensilvania, el veterano del ejército Cuando una enfermedad extiende más allá de los confines de su comenzó sus estudios de seminario debilitante le dejó sin habla y sin parroquia a los hombres y mujeres de en Mallorca, España, y luego en la movilidad, todavía daba ejemplares diferentes creencias religiosas de Fort Universidad de Santo Tomás de lecciones de fe. “Él siempre me dijo, Worth y todo Texas. Aquino (Angelicum) en Roma, donde ‘ésta es la cruz que me toca llevar. Siga “Una lección que nos dio en fue ordenado al sacerdocio en el 1965. orando por mí y yo seguiré orando por sus últimos años fue su testimonio “Pasé ocho años corridos en usted’”, dijo Arica Prado, amiga del de la dignidad humana y el derecho Europa sin poder volver a casa”, fraile franciscano desde hace mucho fundamental a la vida a través de su el Padre Jasso relató durante una tiempo y la directora del lugar que sufrimiento y perseverancia valiente entrevista con North Texas Catholic en el tanto amaba el Padre Jasso, la Escuela ante la enfermedad de ELA”, comentó 2018. “Pero mi familia apoyó siempre Católica de Todos los Santos. “Él era el Obispo Olson. “Estamos muy lo que hice”. nuestra luz brillante. Fue difícil verlo agradecidos a Dios por la vida y el Cuando el sacerdote recién sufrir”. servicio del Padre Stephen Jasso. Les ordenado llegó a Perú para su El Padre Jasso, un incansable pido que se unan a mis oraciones por el primera asignación, sus padres y defensor de los inmigrantes, de los eterno descanso de su alma”. sus 14 hermanos le compraron una bebés por nacer y de la educación El Padre Jasso fue criado por sus motocicleta para que el misionero católica, falleció el 12 de febrero a los padres, Domingo Jasso Sr. y Leonor, pudiera moverse por las estrechas 88 años, luego de una batalla de tres quienes eran católicos muy devotos. El carreteras montañosas del país. años contra la enfermedad de Lou Padre Jasso le atribuyó su crecimiento El Padre Jasso fue enviado a Gehrig, también conocida como ELA espiritual y vocación sacerdotal a haber México cuatro años más tarde, en (esclerosis lateral amiotrófica). conocido a los Franciscanos desde donde pasó 24 años sirviendo a las La misa fúnebre del Padre Jasso joven. La Orden de los Franciscanos parroquias y la comunidad franciscana fue el martes febrero 23 de febrero administraba la Parroquia de San en diferentes roles de liderazgo. En el en la Parroquia de Todos los Santos Francisco de Waco, en donde él fue 1994 su orden le permitió venir a Fort con el Obispo Michael Olson como el bautizado, hizo la Primera Comunión Worth para trabajar en la Parroquia celebrante. y la Confirmación. Antes de ingresar de Santo Tomás Apóstol por seis El Obispo Olson describe al a los Franciscanos en el 1957, el Padre meses, luego de lo cual fue asignado
60 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 60 60 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g El Padre Stephen Jasso se dirige a los asistentes luego de recibir la proclamación de la alcaldesa de Fort Worth, Betsy Price, en la que declaró el 7 de agosto del 2018 como el Día de Padre Jasso en la ciudad de Fort Worth. (NTC/Ben Torres)
como párroco a la Parroquia de Todos los liderazgo a través de la fe y las obras. Su compromiso personal de Santos. “Incluso en los últimos días de su vida proporcionar asistencia a las familias para la Bajo su liderazgo, la parroquia fue una inspiración para todos nosotros”, matrícula de sus hijos, junto a las promesas histórica floreció. El párroco de voz declaró el concejal de la ciudad de Fort del apoyo de exalumnos y benefactores, amable y suave reclutó hermanas Worth que representa al Distrito 2. “Él supo contribuyó a que la escuela parroquial religiosas para trabajar en los ministerios llevar muy bien su cruz con dignidad y fe”. pudiera salir de la crisis financiera. Se logró parroquiales, encabezó la construcción Cuando el tejano de tercera generación realizar un proyecto de remodelación que de un salón parroquial “que se necesitaba consideró postularse para un cargo público, actualizó las aulas en el 2010. desesperadamente” para las clases de buscó el consejo de Padre Jasso, a quien “Tengo el privilegio de servir a la educación religiosa y elevó el perfil de consideraba como su líder espiritual y educación católica porque estoy convencido los hispanos en Fort Worth al participar amigo de toda la vida. de que eso es lo que la Iglesia y el país en juntas y comités cívicos. En el 2002 “Lo llamé, hablamos y oramos necesitan”, dijo enfáticamente en el 2013. el Padre Jasso se reunió con el entonces juntos”, recordó Flores. “Yo quería estar “Necesitamos católicos firmes con una Presidente George W. Bush durante la completamente seguro de que yo deseaba convicción viva de la verdad que han Asamblea Cumbre de Liderazgo Hispano. aspirar a ese cargo y era importante recibir descubierto a través del proceso de la A nivel local, sirvió en la junta de United su bendición”. educación católica”. Way (Fondos Unidos) y el Grupo de La capacidad del humilde sacerdote Teresa Montes, graduada de la Escuela Trabajo sobre el Racismo. para acercarse a la gente y ejercer influencia Católica de Todos los Santos y de Nolan La alcaldesa de Fort Worth, Betsy Price, en los líderes comunitarios ayudó a evitar Catholic High School, elogió al Padre honró “el humilde servicio y la participación que la Escuela Católica de Todos los Santos Jasso por su devoción y su entusiasmo para activa en su comunidad” del líder religioso cerrara a principios de la década del 2000. realizar su misión. Montes creció a unos al proclamar el 7 de agosto del 2018 como Ante la aguda merma de la matrícula de pasos de la parroquia y sus padres, John y el Día del Padre Jasso en la ciudad. los estudiantes y unas instalaciones en mal Jeanette Hernández, eran amigos cercanos Carlos Flores, miembro de toda la vida estado, el Padre Jasso se reunió con varios del párroco. de la Parroquia de Todos los Santos, dijo propietarios de negocios y feligreses locales que el difunto párroco demostró su ejemplar para determinar el destino de la escuela. Continúa en la Página 62
61 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 61 NOTICIAS Ma r z o / Ab r i l 2021 61 Padre Jasso, De la Página 61 que todos llamaban para pedir su opinión de su predecesor al sacerdocio y al sin importar de qué tema se tratara”, dijo ministerio como una hermosa bendición. “Él nunca estuvo quieto”, comentó. Montes. “Siempre realzó la comunidad “No se puede describir su vida “Trabajó incansablemente día y noche. del sector norte (North Side) de la ciudad en pocas palabras”, agregó. “Fue un Me acuerdo ver a menudo al Padre Jasso y las personas que viven allí”. maravilloso ejemplo de Cristo para su en casa de mis padres a las diez de la Según la salud del Padre Jasso pueblo”. noche tomando café”. empeoró, sus familiares y muchos En una de sus últimas entrevistas con Su llegada en el 1994 a la Parroquia amigos y feligreses se reunieron en varias los medios, el Padre Jasso explicó cómo su de Todos los Santos generó un récord ocasiones en su casa para ofrecer sus fe inquebrantable lo ayudó a sobrellevar de asistencia a las Misas y un renovado oraciones y derramar lágrimas mientras le un diagnóstico devastador. sentido de orgullo en la comunidad decían palabras de consuelo al sacerdote “Estoy cargando la cruz porque siento hispana. Antes de enfermarse, el párroco enfermo. que, por alguna razón, Dios ha permitido se ponía su sombrero de ala ancha y “Ya sentían que su muerte se acercaba esta enfermedad”, le dijo a un reportero su traje de mariachi para encabezar a y se reunían con tristeza y gratitud”, del Fort Worth Star-Telegram en el 2018. caballo el desfile del Cinco de Mayo o el explicó el Padre Manuel Holguin. “La cargaré como el Señor llevó su cruz Día de la Independencia de México. El párroco actual de la Parroquia de por mí. El sufrimiento es parte de nuestro “El Padre Jasso fue una persona a la Todos los Santos describió la dedicación diario vivir”.
Padre Alejandro, De la Página 59 llevando la Palabra de Dios. Siempre discreto, alejado de la presunción y dejaba enseñaba a la gente con el Misal Romano, que el centro de atención fuera siempre la Virgen de Guadalupe y su gran amor a como debe ser,” dijo y añadió que lo Dios. Él buscó siempre estar presente para la Eucaristía.” recordará por su gran compromiso con su sus feligreses usando sus talentos, entre ellos “Estuvo siempre preocupado por sus ministerio, “siempre con mucho entusiasmo tocar la guitarra y practicar el ciclismo. ovejas”, afirmó González, y aseveró que el y mucha entrega”. Según Yeni Montoya, originaria Padre Alejandro fue un gran ejemplo del “El Padre Alejandro ya está en la de Hidalgo, México, y voluntaria de la Buen Pastor. “Ya tenemos [en el cielo] un presencia de Dios”, dijo el Padre Ariel, recaudación de fondos en St. Matthew, ese eterno sacerdote que estará intercediendo aseverando que el legado del Padre deseo por parte del Padre Alejandro de por nosotros”, dijo y está muy agradecida Alejandro se mantendrá vivo en la mantenerse cerca de sus feligreses fue más “a Dios por habernos enviado al Padre comunidad de St. Matthew. evidente durante esta pandemia, cuando Alejandro a nuestra parroquia, a la Juana Rodríguez, Coordinadora de por ordenanza de la ciudad, la celebración Diócesis de Fort Worth por haber traído a Ambiente Seguro de la parroquia, resaltó de la Misa tuvo que realizarse a puerta su congregación, y a su congregación por la gran labor de servicio que el Padre cerrada. haber formado un sacerdote ejemplar”. Alejandro realizó para la comunidad de St. “Nos grabó dos audios, en uno de ellos Testigo de esa buena formación, pero Matthew, impulsando la remodelación de tocando la guitarra y cantando…en ese también de su gran amor a Dios, fue el los salones de catecismo, de los baños en la momento podías sentir que quería estar Padre Ariel Muñoz, administrador pastoral iglesia, y de la oficina parroquial. Agregó cerca de nosotros”, dijo sobre las reflexiones de St. Matthew, y también sacerdote de la que estaba en sus planes construir una de Semana Santa y del Día de la Divina Confraternidad de Operarios del Reino nueva cafetería con cocina. Misericordia del año pasado. de Cristo, quien convivió con el Padre “Dejó un legado de amor a Dios, Jaime González, Ministro Alejandro durante sus primeros años en el amor a la Iglesia y amor a nuestra religión Extraordinario de la Eucaristía, compartió seminario. Fueron también compañeros católica. Nos enseñó a seguir adelante con el Padre Alejandro el gusto por el durante sus estudios de teología en España. siempre, a no darnos por vencidos. ‘Hay ciclismo durante los últimos cuatro años. El Padre Ariel fue ordenado sacerdote que echarle ganas. Dios va a proveer, la “Los miércoles, que era su día libre, dos años antes que el Padre Alejandro, Virgen María nos va a guiar’, solía decir el nos íbamos con frecuencia por la mañana y en el 2007 ambos fueron formados Padre Alejandro. Y vamos a seguir así, con a correr rutas forestales en bicicleta, de en el Seminario Mayor de Cristo Rey ese legado que nos dejó de servicio y de una a dos horas”, relató. Poco a poco, en Querétaro, hasta que en el 2016 se seguir adelante”, afirmó Rodríguez. más feligreses se fueron integrando, y volvieron a encontrar en la Parroquia de St. “Ojalá que nosotros como congregación formamos un grupo de siete feligreses Matthew. de hermanos y hermanas, a nombre de él, que compartimos con nuestro párroco El Padre Alejandro tenía una calidad trabajemos duro para completar eso que en contacto con la naturaleza, “íbamos tremenda, sobre todo en sus homilías, él dejo ya empezado”, comentó sobre el contentos porque él siempre iba de líder afirmó el Padre Ariel, y aseguró que “él proyecto de la cafetería. y para nosotros él era como el pastor y supo llegar al corazón de las personas El Padre Alejandro era de carácter nosotros, las ovejas”, dijo.
62 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g May / Ju n e 2018 62 62 No r t hTe x a sCat h o l i c.o r g En el Camino de la Crisma
OBISPO MICHAEL OLSON es el cuarto Obispo de la UNA CELEBRACIÓN Diócesis de Fort Worth. DE SALVACIÓN @BpOlsonFW Y MISERICORDIA
uando una persona muere, es el Servicio de Vigilia o velatorio. Los Sagrada Escritura que sean apropiadas y queda un vacío en la vida de comentarios hechos en el contexto de los que manifiesten el misterio de la salvación, sus familiares y amigos. La elogios también deben ser apropiados con tal como ese misterio se manifestó a lo Iglesia responde a los afligidos respecto a las mejores cualidades de la largo de la vida y los acontecimientos de la Cpor la muerte de su ser querido con las persona fallecida de acuerdo con una vida persona fallecida. Ésta es una forma muy acciones litúrgicas y las palabras que se cristiana y no glorificar ninguna fechoría consoladora de hablar sobre la vida y los brindan a través de la celebración de un o pecado pasado, incluso si la persona logros de la persona, pero con un enfoque servicio de vigilia, la Misa del funeral y que pronuncia el elogio no los ve como en la acción de Cristo presente en ellos. las oraciones de entrega del cuerpo de tal. Los chistes inapropiados hechos por Sin la presencia pastoral del homilista, se la persona junto a la tumba. Estos tres un panegirista no sirven de consuelo, sino descuidaría la responsabilidad pastoral de momentos litúrgicos nos recuerdan el que sólo distraen por un momento de la consolar a los dolientes. sufrimiento, la muerte y la resurrección de realidad de la muerte y la esperanza de la La homilía es un aspecto demasiado Jesús, y sus efectos salvadores sobre la vida Resurrección. La Vigilia es el entorno en el importante en el ejercicio del ministerio de del difunto y sobre todos los seres queridos que consolamos a los seres queridos de una curación a los deudos y afligidos por parte sobrevivientes. Estos actos rituales nos persona fallecida recordando al difunto y del sacerdote o el diácono, que no debe ser dictan cómo los católicos su duelo con la recordando los eventos vividos durante su sustituido o acompañado por un video o esperanza de la Resurrección. Cada uno vida y que llegaron a su fin con la muerte. un elogio que sea ofrecido por un doliente de estos momentos tiene su propio carácter Esto presenta un desafío pastoral que está emocionalmente vulnerable y, y propósito. Si bien la muerte y el dolor para los sacerdotes, diáconos y ministros en particular, uno que haya tenido poca que rodea a la muerte no son exclusivos pastorales al responder a los seres queridos oportunidad de hablar apropiadamente de los católicos, la transición ritualizada y sobrevivientes, muchos de los cuales tal dentro del contexto de la liturgia en un litúrgica de la muerte a la vida es particular vez no sean católicos o se hayan alejado de momento de transición muy crucial. El de la teología y la espiritualidad católicas. la práctica de su fe. Para responder a las resultado con demasiada frecuencia es la Los elogios o panegíricos son una de esas familias que sufren por la muerte de su ser distracción del misterio de la esperanza en diferencias. querido lo recomendable es reunirse con la Resurrección y de las oraciones por el La Introducción General al Orden de los ellos para preparar la vigilia y la liturgia reposo del alma del difunto inherente a la Funerales Cristianos declara claramente del funeral. Es necesario que el que vaya liturgia del funeral destinada por la Iglesia a que en la liturgia del funeral o exequias a ofrecer la homilía escuche a los seres la sanación de los reunidos para este fin. un sacerdote o diácono debe ofrecer una queridos contar la historia de la vida de la Es cierto que el tiempo de dolor por homilía, “pero nunca debe haber un persona fallecida. El duelo es un momento la muerte de un ser querido tal vez no sea panegírico”. Se entiende que un elogio es de presencia y la preparación para la liturgia un momento de enseñanza, pero observo una narración que en cierta medida detalla del funeral y los ritos que acompañan a la que es un momento de evangelización en el los logros y las cualidades de la persona vigilia, y el reunirse alrededor de la tumba que la presencia consoladora de la Iglesia fallecida, y los efectos emocionales de su es una oportunidad para tal presencia. Al acompaña a los dolientes en el misterio de la fallecimiento en sus amigos y familiares escuchar tales historias, el homilista puede salvación ganado para nosotros por Cristo, sobrevivientes. Si se va a pronunciar un y debe considerar lo que escucha de los que nunca olvida las promesas que hizo en el elogio, el lugar apropiado para el mismo dolientes, y puede sugerir lecturas de la Bautismo de los miembros de Su rebaño.
Ja n ua rM y a / r zF oe b/ rA uab r r i yl 2021 63 The Official Publication of the Diocese of Fort Worth
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APRIL IS CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH
Help create a safer community by participating in a special livestreamed Mass on April 22 at 6 p.m., a month-long prayer campaign, and various awareness events being hosted by the Diocese of Fort Worth and the Safe Environment Office.
Visit fwdioc.org/safe-environment for more