WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG | December 2020 FLORIDACatholic ARCHDIOCESE Merry Christmas et Christmas ‘Yreminds us that in the Christ Child born for us the light of hope overcomes the darkness of despair. That Baby, despite his humble surroundings, is the center of everything; he is the heart of the world.’

— 2 YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY Catholic December 2020 Globetrotters draft Carroll High’s Carmelite sisters Viral video supporting Heat’s playoff run turns them into only nuns in team history

CRISTINA CABRERA JARRO correspondent

MIAMI | What happens when you give five Carmelite sisters from

14243-1217 Archbishop High School a basketball? They star in a Miami Heat sup- Luis Perez, TV production and broadcasting teacher at Archbishop port video that goes viral on the in- Coleman Carroll High, and the announcer of the Harlem Globetrotters in ternet, and then get drafted by the Miami, announces the 2020 Harlem Globetrotters player draft honorary member: Sister Margaret Ann. She accepted on behalf of her fellow Harlem Globetrotters as the first Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles who work at nuns in the team’s 94-year history. the school: Sister Ines, Sister Immaculata, Sister Mara, and Sister Mary During the livestream of the 14th Elizabeth (not pictured). ( PHOTOS BY CRISTINA CABRERA JARRO| FC) annual Globetrotters player draft, Nov. 16, 2020 at Carroll High, Sister Margaret Ann, principal, signed a up the story, as did NBC’s Nightly The Catholic letter of intent on behalf of herself News, and ESPN. and Sisters Ines, Mary Elizabeth, The Miami Heat also noticed Immaculata, and Mara. They were and gifted the sisters with virtual Difference also given official Harlem Globe- seats to game one of the Eastern trotters head and wrist bands, and Conference Finals against the Bos- a jersey with the nickname “Sister” ton Celtics. Commentators, sports- and the number 33, representing casters, and cameras noticed the the age of the risen Christ. sisters in the audience during the “The sisters and I are very grate- game. ful to be Harlem Globetrotters,” Owners of the Harlem Globe- said Sister Margaret Ann. trotters noticed the “Nun to Nunn” Released Sept. 10, 2020 on social Heat hype video and contacted media, the video of the sisters was Luis Perez, TV production teacher originally meant to reconnect Car- at Carroll High, and announcer for roll High’s students through their the Globetrotters in Miami. mutual support of the Miami Heat “They called it the only good in this year’s NBA Eastern Confer- story coming out during this whole ence Finals. In it, they shout out pandemic scenario. And that prob- Heat player Kendrick Nunn. Sister Globetrotter: After signing ably has a lot to do with why it was “Hey Miami Heat. We heard the honorary draft letter from so successful,” said Perez. there’s a Nunn on your team, and the Harlem Globetrotters, Sister He pointed out that the Harlem he’s pretty good. We want to let Margaret Ann holds up the Globetrotters are known not only Head Coach Eric Spoelstra know official Harlem Globetrotters for basketball, but for their chari- that at Archbishop Coleman Car- jersey given to her and the table endeavors as well as “90-plus roll we’ve got some nuns ready to go Carmelite Sisters of the Most years of breaking down barriers,” We are a world-class insurance provider built if you need us,” said Sister Margaret Sacred Heart of Los Angeles. as their website states. upon Catholic principles and social teachings. Ann in the video. “They look for these types of Footage in the video showcased The video took off, and has since people in their players, and they the sisters, in full habits, shoot- accumulated over 10,000 views look for it in their honorary picks. Our mission is to help men grow in faith and ing three-pointers, layups, and, on Instagram, almost 4,000 views Sister Margaret Ann and the sisters financially protect their families. with some offscreen assistance, a on YouTube, and over 1,000 likes are exactly who you want to pick slam-dunking Sister Immaculata. on Twitter. Local 10 News picked when it comes to that type of de- scription,” Perez added. We are men of faith dedicated to Sister Margaret Ann highlighted ABOUT THE COVER that the team focuses on communi- our Brother Knights. Nour Yazji, a sixth grader at Our Lady ty-building and helping others. of the Holy Rosary-St. Richard School in “When I was a small child, I re- Contact us today to learn more. Palmetto Bay, drew the artwork on the member watching the Globetrot- cover of this December 2020 edition of ters and just (being) impressed with the Florida Catholic. Nour is the second the joy that they brought to other Call: 855-563-2467 of three siblings, all of whom attend people, the enthusiasm, and the e-mail: [email protected] Holy Rosary-St. Richard. He was born good, clean fun,” she said. “Now as www.kofclife-sefl.com in the to parents who im- an adult, realizing how much good migrated from Syria. He started draw- they do for the community and for ing animation characters; then his par- other people, it’s a true honor to be

14164-1217 ents asked him to draw more religious a part of the Harlem Globetrotters, LIFE INSURANCE • DISABILITY INCOME INSURANCE art. LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE • RETIREMENT ANNUITIES PLEASE SEE NUNS, 3 December 2020 www.thefloridacatholic.org YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY 3

OBITUARY Father William Elbert, loved to ‘read books and talk’ A priest for 47 years, had been a priest for 47 years, all of in 1960. He would return there to He also taught at Our Lady of them in the Archdiocese of Miami. teach from 1988 to 1996. Lourdes Academy from 1976 to 1982 Miami native served as Aside from the priesthood, Elbert In a June 2018 article in the Flor- and at Msgr. Edward Pace High said, his brother loved two things: ida Catholic, Father Elbert cred- School in Miami Gardens from 1982 at St. Lawrence, “Read books and talk.” ited his parents for encouraging his to 1986, while in residence at Im- He called Father Elbert, who also vocation, but said the Franciscan maculate Conception in Hialeah. North Miami Beach, learned to speak Spanish, “a walk- Sisters of Allegany New York, who Sent for higher studies from 1986 for 18 years ing encyclopedia. He knew more staffed Corpus Christi School at the to 1988, he returned to teach at St. about every subject than anybody time, played a significant role. “I al- John Vianney until 1996, when he ANA RODRIGUEZ-SOTO else who was an expert in it.” most decided to become a Francis- took a months-long sabbatical. Florida Catholic staff In fact, Elbert added, “He’s prob- can back then,” said Father Elbert. He returned to serve as parochial ably now telling God that here’s As South Florida’s population vicar at St. John the Apostle in Hia- what he should do.” grew in the 1950s and 1960s, he leah from February 1997 to January MIAMI | Funeral services took Still, his brother noted, “even also remembered his pastor, the 2000, when he was named admin- place Dec. 4, 2020, at St. Lawrence Father William Elbert with the knowledge he acquired late Msgr. Joseph H. O’Shea, point- istrator, and later pastor, of St. Law- Church in North Miami Beach, for throughout his life, he still re- ing out that “we desperately needed rence. Father William Elbert, who served walked in, he looked like he was just mained a caring soul dedicated to more diocesan priests for our ex- In addition to his brother Don- as pastor there for 18 years. sleeping. We’re thankful that it was help others.” ploding population in Miami.” ald, Father Elbert is survived by Father Elbert, who retired from a peaceful passage,” Donald Elbert Born in Miami Dec. 10, 1947, Wil- Ordained May 12, 1973, Father another brother, Thomas, who lives active ministry in May 2018, died told the Florida Catholic. liam A. Elbert was the eldest of four Elbert served as parochial vicar at in Woodbury, Minnesota, and a sis- sometime before Thanksgiving at He said his brother, who died just children, three boys and a girl. He Our Lady of the Holy Rosary (now ter, Susan, who lives in Cape Coral, his apartment. His brother, Donald a few weeks before his 73rd birth- attended Corpus Christi School and Holy Rosary-St. Richard) in Pal- Florida; as well as many nieces and Elbert, found him Nov. 25, 2020. day, had undergone major heart entered St. John Vianney — then a metto Bay from 1973 to 1976 and nephews. “I came in to do a wellness check surgery five years ago and suffered high school seminary — right af- at Epiphany in Miami from 1976 to Father Elbert was buried at Our when he didn’t answer and when I from emphysema. Father Elbert ter graduating from eighth grade 1982. Lady of Mercy Cemetery in Doral. n NUNS Seeing through ‘the bubble’ FROM 2 Live Stream Team opening our gates to the public for events such as Family Weekend, and a part of their mission.” helps seminarians Friends of the Seminary and our This year, the Globetrotters also keep in touch with Wednesday public Masses, the drafted basketball player Shaun Live Stream Team has been dili- Kirk, one of the nation’s top col- outside world during gently working on bringing us to lege dunkers from the University of the public like so many other par- North Carolina at Pembroke; Ma- pandemic ishes this year. jor League Baseball’s Mookie Betts Thanks to the Live Stream of the 2020 World Series champion PETER JUTRAS Team, the opening academic Los Angeles Dodgers; Seattle Se- Special to the Florida Catholic exercise and Family Weekend – ahawks quarterback Russell Wil- where the I and Theol- son; and, posthumously, Chadwick BOYNTON BEACH | It is in- ogy II seminarians were installed Seminarians Matthew Jacob, Daniel Donohue and David Portorreal Boseman, star of the movie “Black credible how important video as lectors and acolytes, respec- work behind the scenes to livestream events at St. Vincent de Paul Panther,” who played basketball in conferencing and livestreaming tively – were livestreamed to hun- Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach. high school. have now become in our day-to- dreds of people. The sisters join past honorees day lives. The process of livestreaming from the world of sports, such as Before the COVID pandemic, it is, as many of you know, fairly basketball player Kareem Abdul was nice to Facetime with friends complex and can be difficult to Jabbar and soccer player Lionel and family, yet so often it could figure out. Issues and problems Messi, as well as some celebrities, be seen as a hassle. Now, after be- pop up last minute and changes including actors and comedians ing stuck inside for the past few must be made. Although some- Bob Hope and Kevin Hart, and months, we realize and appreci- times stressful and complicated, world-renowned historical figures ate the great importance of shar- it is an exciting and beautiful pro- Nelson Mandela and Henry Kiss- ing our lives with others in the cess to be a part of. inger. While there are no other reli- community. While we are here The beauty of livestreaming is gious sisters on the roster, they join inside our “bubble” at St. Vincent not just in the broadcasting pro- two : St. John Paul II (hon- de Paul Seminary, we continue to cess, but rather in how many of ored in 2000) and Francis (honored miss this aspect of community in our loved ones can attend the dif- in 2015). our lives. ferent events. There were family Sister Margaret Ann has history A big question became clear members and friends watching Seminarian John Buonocore Seminarian Peter Jutras with the sport. She played basket- once the shutdown began: Now this broadcast from all over the films during the Friends of the adjusts the camera prior to ball in high school, earned a schol- that we are unable to go outside, world. Seminary at St. Vincent the livestreaming of Mass at arship to play in college, and later how can we reach out to our fam- Many people would have de Paul Regional Seminary in St. Vincent de Paul Regional coached. “I just see basketball as ily and friends from inside the never had the chance to attend Boynton Beach. Seminary in Boynton Beach. an exciting way of helping young seminary itself? One very impor- these events in person due to people to grow. It’s a lot of fun, and tant aspect in the life of a priest the distance, health, availability good for those who love God.” In our home and events to our com- it’s good for the community to have is serving and ministering to the or other reasons. Thanks to the these challenging times, we know munity and families through the entertainment,” she said. people of God. When the people Live Stream Team, we were able that God is able to bring about so livestreaming of certain events. n She joked that now that she’s a we serve are just out of reach, to have our families present for much good. Even in times of CO- Globetrotter, she’ll have to start what are we to do? these important moments in our VID-19 we must continue to stand Peter Jutras is a Theology I student working on her tricks and moves One of the answers came in formation. More people watched in the virtue of hope. Hopefully from the Diocese of Pensacola-Tal- before the team returns to Miami. the form of the Live Stream Team. the stream than could fit in our soon, we will be able to welcome lahassee. This article originally “I haven’t worked on spinning a The goal of the Live Stream Team beautiful chapel, and each one of our family and friends physi- appeared in the Fall 2020 edition basketball in a while, but now is the is to assist with bringing the out- them had front row seats. cally back to our home here at St. of St. Vincent de Paul Seminary’s time to pick it up again.” n side world into our home on cam- Let us recall Romans 8:28: Vincent de Paul Seminary. Until magazine, Seeds of Hope. It is re- pus. While we would normally be “We know that all things work for then, we will continue to bring printed here with permission. 4 YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY Florida Catholic December 2020 The reason for our joy, despite our tears In every home, under the this love by making oneself a gift for look on the newly born baby lying ed by the virus. Some have suffered FLORIDA Christmas tree, there should be a others by loving them. in a feedbox for animals, “a manger the loss of a loved one, others suf- Catholic “Nativity” or “creche.” First popu- Too often we are presented with for a bed,” they are full of joy. They fered financial setbacks resulting larized in the 11th century by St. a sanitized version of Christmas love each other; they help each in lost jobs or even a home. These ARCHDIOCESE OF MIAMI Francis of Assisi, those Nativities consisting mainly of the warm other, and they know that God is at trials remind us that this earthly with the baby Jesus in a fuzzy feelings of a Hall- work in their history, the God who life remains always a “vale of tears.” Vol. 81, No. 11 manger speak silently to mark card. So we could made himself present in the Child Yet Christmas reminds us that our hearts, inviting us to easily forget that while Jesus. in the Christ Child born for us the 9401 Biscayne Blvd. live what they symbolize: Christmas celebrates the Even the shepherds rejoiced — light of hope overcomes the dark- Miami, FL 33138 Christ’s love, his humility, coming among us of the although the Child in the manger ness of despair. That Baby, despite 305-762-1131 Fax 305-762-1132 his poverty. The Apostle Prince of Peace, his com- would not change the facts of their his humble surroundings, is the PUBLISHER John would succinctly ing was indeed “a sign of poverty or their marginalization center of everything; he is the heart Archbishop Thomas Wenski summarize the Christmas contradiction.” We under- from the “polite society” of the of the world. DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS message by writing: “God Archishop play the fact that the preg- learned and the wise of this world. Even while the pandemic has Mary Ross Agosta so loved the world that he nant Mary and her hus- Yet, they are joyful because their forced us to practice “social dis- gave it his only begotten Thomas band, Joseph, were turned faith allows them to recognize in tancing,” Christmas reminds us ARCHDIOCESAN EDITOR Son.” away from the inn. We the child a sign of the fulfillment that God has not distanced himself Ana Rodriguez-Soto Wenski [email protected] This, of course, is the forget the slaughter of the of God’s promises. Through Christ from us. The abiding presence of 305-762-1131 reason for our joy, a joy for Holy Innocents — and that who is born on that Holy Night, God the God who became man remains the world. Christmas proclaims the infant Jesus was spared their and sinner will be reconciled. among us. This presence of Em- that the secret of the joy for which fate only through the hurried flight This Christmas, we come to the manuel — God with us — is God • ADVERTISING: Contact Valerie Casko at the human heart craves is not into Egypt where the Holy Family close of another year; but it was an the Father’s Christmas present to 407-373-0075 or found in having a lot of things. lived for many years as what today unusual and difficult year marked each one of us. Those creches in [email protected] Rather the secret of joy — pro- we would call “political refugees.” by a triple crisis: a global pandemic, our churches or under the Christ- • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Mike Carlock at 1-888-275-9953, or claimed by angels from on high Mary and Joseph were not what economic hardship and social un- mas tree in our homes, beckon us: [email protected] — is found in knowing that one is we would call today “people of in- rest. COVID-19 has affected all of “Come, let us adore him.” loved by the Lord and inspired by fluence or affluence.” Yet, as they us, even if not everyone was infect- Merry Christmas! n State Offices: 50 E. Robinson St., Suite G, Orlando, FL 32801-1619; P.O. Box 4993; Orlando, FL 32802-4993; 407-373-0075; Toll- free 1-888-275-9953; Fax 407-373-0087 El motivo de nuestra alegría, a pesar de nuestras lágrimas EXECUTIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF: Associate Publisher: Ann Borowski Slade En cada hogar, debajo del árbol Con demasiada frecuencia se bre por cama”, se llenan de alegría. que resultaron en la pérdida de em- Editorial/Online Director: Jean Gonzalez de Navidad, debe haber un “Na- nos presenta una versión edulco- Se aman, se ayudan unos a otros, y pleos o incluso de un hogar. Estas Copy Editor: Maurice Beaulieu cimiento” o “Pesebre”. Populari- rada de la Navidad, que consiste saben que Dios obra en su historia, pruebas nos recuerdan que esta Business Manager: Pat Spencer zados por primera vez en el siglo principalmente en los cálidos sen- el Dios que se hizo presente en el vida terrenal sigue siendo siempre Advertising Manager: Valerie Casko Marketing Advertising Associate: Michael XI por San Francisco de Asís, esos timientos difusos de una tarjeta Niño Jesús. un “valle de lágrimas”. Carlock Belenes con el niño Jesús en un pe- de Hallmark. Así que fácilmente Incluso los pastores se regoci- Sin embargo, la Navidad nos Advertising Graphic Designer: sebre hablan en silencio a nuestro podríamos olvidar que, si bien la jaron, aunque el Niño del pesebre recuerda que en el Niño Jesús que Michael Jimenez corazón, invitándonos a vivir lo Navidad celebra la venida entre no cambiaría la realidad de su po- nos nació, la luz de la esperanza que simbolizan: el amor de Cristo, nosotros del Príncipe de la Paz, su breza o su marginación de la “so- vence las tinieblas de la desespera- su humildad, su pobreza. El após- venida fue ciertamente “un signo ciedad educada” de los eruditos y ción. Ese Bebé, a pesar de su entor- Send statewide news releases to tol Juan resumía sucintamente el de contradicción”. Subestimamos sabios de este mundo. Sin embar- no humilde, es el centro de todo; él [email protected] mensaje de Navidad escribiendo: el hecho de que María, embaraza- go, están alegres, porque su fe les es el corazón del mundo. “Tanto amó Dios al mundo, que le da, y su esposo, José, fueron recha- permite reconocer en el niño una Aunque la pandemia nos ha Archdiocese of Miami dio a su Hijo unigénito”. zados de la posada. Olvidamos la señal del cumplimiento de las pro- obligado a practicar el “distan- www.miamiarch.org Follow us: Facebook: www.facebook.com/ Este, por supuesto, es el moti- masacre de los Santos Inocentes, mesas de Dios. Por Cristo, que nace ciamiento social”, la Navidad nos archdioceseofmiami vo de nuestra alegría, una alegría y que el niño Jesús se salvó de ese en esa Noche Santa, Dios y el peca- recuerda que Dios no se ha dis- Twitter: @CatholicMiami para el mundo. La Navidad procla- destino solo a través de la huida dor serán reconciliados. tanciado de nosotros. La presencia Instagram: @CatholicMiami ma que el secreto de la alegría que apresurada a Egipto, donde la Sa- Esta Navidad llegamos al final permanente del Dios que se hizo anhela el corazón humano no se grada Familia vivió durante mu- de un año más; pero fue un año in- hombre permanece entre noso- Our staff meets for prayer each work day at encuentra en tener muchas cosas. chos años como lo que hoy llama- usual y difícil marcado por una tri- tros. Esta presencia de Emmanuel, 9 a.m. Send prayer intentions to prayers@ thefloridacatholic.org Más bien, el secreto de la alegría, ríamos “refugiados políticos”. ple crisis: una pandemia mundial, Dios con nosotros, es el regalo de proclamado por los ángeles desde María y José no eran lo que lla- dificultades económicas y malestar Navidad de Dios Padre para cada All contents copyright © 2020, The Florida lo alto, se encuentra en saber que maríamos hoy “personas de in- social. El COVID-19 nos ha afectado uno de nosotros. Esos pesebres de Catholic Inc., except stories and photos from uno es amado por el Señor e ins- fluencia o riqueza”. Sin embargo, a todos, incluso si no todos fueron nuestras iglesias o bajo el árbol de Catholic News Service. pirado por este amor a convertir- cuando miran al bebé recién na- infectados por el virus. Algunos han Navidad, en nuestras casas, nos se en un regalo para los demás al cido acostado en un recipiente de sufrido la pérdida de un ser querido, llaman: “Venid, adorémoslo”. amarlos. alimento para animales, “un pese- otros sufrieron reveses económicos ¡Feliz Navidad! n

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AFTER HURRICANE DORIAN, Bahamas post-hurricane THE PANDEMIC ARRIVED IN BAHAMAS MIAMI | As the Bahamas is of church capacity after in-person emerging from a second-wave raft of attendance was allowed starting in rebuilding continues impositions on gatherings, travel and early June, along with required mask- in-class education, the island recently wearing, social distancing and hand lifted 24-hour weekend curfews and sanitizing safety protocols. has managed to slow COVID infection “We had a tremendous spike rates. The pandemic has left scars on starting about two months ago amid pandemic the economy and workforce. Particu- and then some restrictions, but this larly hit were the tourism and cruise coming weekend is about the first TOM TRACY industries. weekend that we are not under a total Florida Catholic correspondent “It is difficult and challenging, no lockdown,” he added during a mid- doubt about it: There has been a lot November phone interview with the MIAMI | Despite curfews, lock- of belt-tightening and a lot of people Florida Catholic. downs and COVID-19 travel re- have been laid off,” said Nassau Arch- The pandemic travel restrictions strictions, rebuilding of a Bahamas bishop Patrick Pinder, who has been also slowed inter-island travel, creat- church destroyed in 2019’s Hur- preoccupied this year with rebuilding ing delays in some of the Hurricane ricane Dorian is about to begin — churches and schools following last Dorian rebuilding projects and hur- with a little help from Miami. year’s devastating Hurricane Dorian. ricane relief efforts. The category 5 Hurricane Dorian “Certainly, this is a long journey we made a prolonged landfall in the “The economic engine in this are on and to some extent a painful country is the tourism sector and our northern Bahamas Sept. 1-3, 2019 journey.” as one of the strongest storms in At- tourism sector has been closed down The Johns Hopkins University CO- since March, which means there are lantic history, with sustained wind Recent photo of the new administration building at St. Francis de VID Tracker tool shows, as of the end literally thousands of people out of speeds maxed out at 185 mph. It Sales School in Marsh Harbour, Abaco. It is scheduled to be in use of November, a total of 7,496 cases of tied a handful of other hurricanes by early next year. work,” the archbishop noted. COVID-19 in the Bahamas with some But many of the major resorts have as the second-strongest storm in 163 associated deaths. the Atlantic since 1950 and left sev- indicated that they are going to be eral church properties damaged or Archbishop Pinder said he has reopening, some as early as the first badly destroyed. not traveled internationally since last week of December. But a gift of $340,000 awarded by January. He noted that Bahamians “That is going to be a very posi- Catholic Charities USA and facili- can travel to the U.S. but first need tive thing as we go into Christmas. tated through Catholic Charities of to show timely negative COVID-19 It certainly won’t be the kind of the Archdiocese of Miami will as- PCR swab test results both when Christmas we had before for a number sist Bahamian Catholics with some exiting and returning to Nassau. of reasons, not the least of which is all of their priority recovery and re- Recently, they also have been required the (large) gatherings won’t be able to building projects. That includes Sts. to quarantine for a two-week period. happen,” Archbishop Pinder said. “But Mary and Andrew Church and rec- Likewise, visitors going to the Baha- the fact that we are beginning to open tory in Treasure Cay in the Abacos mas need to be tested and to acquire up again and that tourists have been Islands, which was rendered “a pile International volunteers make preliminary repairs last February at St. a health visa. allowed to travel with certain restric- of rubble” by Dorian’s storm surge. Francis de Sales School in Abaco, which was closed following last year’s The result has been a reduced flow tions will be a tremendous relief given “We have the plans for rebuild- devastating Category 5 Hurricane Dorian. (PHOTOS BY TOM TRACY | FC) of visitors, tourists and business travel- the current circumstances.” ing the church and we are working ers to the islands in 2020. “And so we will have a much more on putting together the resources to The Miami Archdiocese has sent munity and you look for people who Archbishop Pinder said church positive Christmas than what we have do that. We are hoping to get start- over a number of moveable trail- may have been overlooked maybe attendance around the islands has been (living with) over the last six ed before the end of this calendar ers with emergency relief supplies due to some kind of disability.” been restricted to about 30 percent months,” he added. year,” Nassau Archbishop Patrick for distribution in Grand Bahamas The Caritas resiliency centers Pinder told the Florida Catholic in and Abaco. also offer counseling and stress a mid-November phone conversa- “Most of the funds raised will go management classes “to help peo- Nassau Archbishop Patrick tion. to rebuilding. We will also continue ple get some degree of normalcy Pinder led a delegation Miami’s Ben Lopez & Associates to help with direct assistance and and a sense of connectedness, and of Archdiocese of Miami Catholic Charities staff on architectural firm, which specializ- direct humanitarian aid,” Routsis- to put people in touch with existing a post-Hurricane Dorian es in church design, has developed Arroyo said. social service agencies,” the arch- tour of key locations. With the plans for the new Sts. Mary and Mary Star of the Sea Parish in bishop said. him were Peter Routsis- Andrew Church. The Lopez firm Freeport, Grand Bahama, has Hurricane Dorian also severely Arroyo, left, CEO of has designed at least two other served as a key point of hurri- damaged two Catholic schools in Miami’s Catholic Charities, churches in Nassau. cane relief in that area. In addi- Abaco that have remained shut- and Msgr. Roberto Garza, Archbishop Pinder talked about tion, a partnership between the tered for most of the last 12 months: board chairman for the yearlong post-hurricane re- Nassau Archdiocese, Caritas St. Francis de Sales Catholic School Catholic Charities Miami. building and recovery projects in Antilles and Catholic Relief Ser- and Every Child Counts School the Nassau Archdiocese along with vices has been accelerating home for Special Students in the town of the impact of the global pandemic, refurbishment, mental health Marsh Harbour. “One of the things we don’t think aftermath of the disaster. which has badly hampered the programming and emergency In mid-October, St. Francis de about when rebuilding after a trag- Most of the temporary shelters travel and tourism economy in the supply distribution at so-called Sales School reopened for some 80 edy or natural disaster is that there have closed and evacuees have ei- Bahamas. resiliency centers for that island. primary school students in a virtu- is a tremendous boost that happens ther returned to Abaco or found That group recently completed al mode, and planned to move into when people see their community new local housing, according to $913,000 FROM S. FLA. several pilot projects resulting in in person instruction in mid-No- coming back again. That is across Archbishop Pinder. The Archdiocese of Miami and two newly built homes in eastern vember. The special needs school the board — you rebuild a Catholic The Bahamian government es- Catholic Charities of Miami have Grand Bahama. remains in need of more extensive school and the entire community is timates that Dorian affected 70,000 been providing logistical sup- “In the meantime, they are do- repair. lifted up by that,” Archbishop Pin- people, some 60% of whom may port and donated materials to the ing lots of psycho-social work and der said. have lost their homes. A report from Church in the Bahamas over the continuing with the (refurbish- MORALE BOOST Hurricane Dorian’s official the Bahamas Catholic Board of past year. In addition, a special Hur- ing) of homes,” Archbishop Pinder The re-opening of St. Francis death toll is listed at 50, with many Education noted that while Abaco ricane Dorian appeal throughout said. “We also have been doing a de Sales School has been a morale others assumed missing or dislo- was most severely impacted by the the Catholic community of South number of food distributions. Our booster for the wider Marsh Har- cated to other places following the storm, Grand Bahama also received Florida last year generated some focus tends to be on what we call bour community, according to storm. Many Bahamians fled to the significant damage with only five $913,000 for Hurricane Dorian relief targeted distribution where we can Archbishop Pinder. “It is a tremen- capital city of Nassau, where they miles of the island not flooding. in the Bahamas, according to Peter find people who have been over- dous psychological boost to the enrolled their children in schools, Flooded homes impacted approxi- Routsis-Arroyo, CEO of Catholic looked and to make sure they get community with a school coming while others went to other islands mately 85% to 90% of the student Charities of Miami. baskets of food. We go to the com- back like that,” he said. or even Florida in the immediate population. n 6 YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY Florida Catholic December 2020 Pandemic, hardships – and hope Heart of Christmas gifts, COVID-19 Emergency Fund ease sufferings of many in 2020

LINDA REEVES DONATIONS Florida Catholic correspondent Donations to the Archdiocese MIAMI | The coronavirus pan- of Miami’s COVID-19 Emergency demic has deepened hardships in Fund can be made at this link: The Archdiocese every area of the Archdiocese of https://give.adomdevelopment. of Miami’s Miami, turning lives upside down org/pages/coronavirus-emergen- COVID-19 cy-fund. Emergency Fund, and drowning families in hopeless- created in March, ness. But help has come, and more has collected is on the way. Heart of Christmas. Last year, 168 $260,000 as of Archbishop Thomas Wenski’s individuals and families received December 2020, traditional Heart of Christmas pro- help. This year, the archbishop and helped gram, which reflects the true mean- “agreed to fund all applicants,” more than 250 ing of the season, will aid 205 fami- Bourdeau said. families so far. lies this year, bringing them a little “The program has grown over support but also much more. the years,” she added. “The need is “The message of Christmas certainly greater than the resources means that the poor are not forgot- available.” ten, that the poor are loved,” said Archbishop Wenski in 2013, when HEART OF CHRISTMAS the Advent tradition he started Who is among the list of Heart of after time when there is a need, “We have received punches from Mendez lost his job and couldn’t kicked off its second year. Christmas candidates this year? putting their faith in action and the left and from the right,” said a pay the rent or put food on the The money itself — $250 this year A single mother with two autistic becoming the hands and heart of very thankful Maria. “My insur- table. He began working for Uber — “won’t give anybody longtime children who works two part-time Christ. ance didn’t pay for all my medical and Lyft days and nights, making economic security,” the archbishop jobs. A father who contracted CO- bills. I am beyond grateful for the next to nothing and in fear that said at the time. “But hopefully, it VID-19 in June and has been in the EMERGENCY FUND help that the archdiocese gave me. I he might get the virus or bring it will bring a measure of hope.” hospital on a ventilator for the past In March, generous donors con- didn’t know what I was going to do.” home to his wife and children. “My This year marks the ninth year of six months, with mounting medical tributed to the archdiocese’s CO- Veronica, a single mother liv- family is the most important thing Heart of Christmas. As he has done bills and a family to feed. One Hol- VID-19 Emergency Fund, created ing in Miami who didn’t want her to me,” he said. “I want to protect every year since 2012, the archbish- lywood family with six children in by the Development Office. The full name revealed, is raising three them.” op asked his , school princi- the household who moved to South fund was established in anticipa- children ages 8, 13 and 16. She re- Friends and people from St. Am- pals and heads of different archdi- Florida from the Bahamas after tion of the economic fallout of the ceived emergency relief from the brose reached out to help the fam- ocesan agencies, including Catholic 2019’s Hurricane Dorian destroyed pandemic, but no one realized that archdiocese two months ago after ily with food. Through the archdio- Charities, to submit the names and their home. After settling in and COVID-19 would continue into losing her cleaning job due to the cese’s emergency fund, he received stories of any families or individu- finding work, the father lost his job 2021, bringing with it more tragedy. pandemic. six months’ rent. als experiencing great difficulties due to the pandemic. To date, $260,000 has been raised to “The archdiocese helped me “I live in a very hard situation,” and needs. The heartbreaking stories go on assist more than 250 families. with three months’ rent,” said the he said. “In Brazil, I have my fam- Katie Blanco Bourdeau, chief and on. Maria Romero, 61, a parishioner mother, a parishioner of St. Mary ily. Here I have no one. My greatest development officer for the arch- Each recipient will get a $250 gift of St. Mark in Southwest Ranches, Magdalen in Sunny Isles Beach. A fear is to be on the streets with my diocese and president of its De- card. The gift cards will be sent to received aid through the emer- local food program helps her with family.” velopment Corporation, said ap- the parishes, schools or entities that gency fund to pay medical bills. Her food while she continues to look Mendez continues to hope and plications came flooding into her sent in the application, and then family’s business was forced to shut for work. “It has been very difficult pray for a job. “God is on my side,” office by the Dec. 4, 2020 deadline. they will hand-deliver the gift cards down due to the pandemic. Romero for me. I am thankful for the assis- he said. He has applied for his She pointed to the coronavirus to the recipients prior to Christmas, and her husband of 32 years used tance I have received. I have a lot of dream job with a charter airplane pandemic for the greater numbers said Bourdeau. their entire savings to keep the angels,” she said. “I am thankful to company. A graduate of Broward this year. South Florida has been a “It isn’t possible without the business going and pay the staff. God.” College, he is positive about landing COVID-19 hotspot since the begin- generosity of the people,” she said, The Romeros lost their home Carlos Mendez, 45, a native of the opportunity and picking up the ning of the year. Many families have adding that the funds for Heart of and are living with one of their four Brazil, came to Florida over six pieces for a brighter future in 2021. been shattered, financially and by Christmas come through private adult children. Adding to the finan- years ago. He is a parishioner of St. “I don’t have the words to thank the loss of loved ones. donations. cial and material loss, Maria was Ambrose in Deerfield Beach. Mar- the archdiocese for the help,” he When the project launched in She praised the many generous diagnosed with mouth cancer and ried 15 years, he and his wife have a said, pausing to hold back emo- 2012, 40 families were assisted by archdiocesan donors who give time endured intensive surgery. boy, nearly 2, and a girl, 7. tions. “I only have tears.” n

NEWSbriefs Catholic Days ing, a rosary with the bishops of partnered with Bishop Robert Rosary Development Florida and a Defensor Vitae award Barron’s Word on Fire Institute staff honored happening presentation to a legislator. Virtual to produce “Brilliant! 25 Catholic documentary group meetings with legislators will Scientists, Mathematicians, and Two members of the Archdiocese virtually for 2021 be scheduled for participants to at- Supersmart People.” Written and released of Miami’s Development Office were To ensure the health and safety of tend. The Red Mass of the Holy Spir- illustrated by Jaclyn and David “Pray: The story of Patrick Pey- honored recently by community participants in light of the coronavi- it will be celebrated on the evening Warren, the book profiles Catho- ton,” a documentary about the fa- organizations. Katie Blanco Bour- rus, the 2021 Catholic Days at the of Feb. 3 by Bishop William Wack, lic pioneers in every field, from mous Hollywood “rosary priest,” deau, president of the archdiocese’s Capitol will be a virtual event. Pre- CSC, of the Diocese of Pensacola- anatomy to astrophysics, in order became available for digital pur- Development Corporation, was rec- vious attendees as well as those who Tallahassee. The Red Mass will also to help children, ages 7-11, under- chase Dec. 18, 2020. Father Peyton ognized by Lifestyle Magazine as have not been able to join Catholics be livestreamed for Catholic Days stand that faith and science are not inspired millions of families to pray one of the 75 Women of Influence in Tallahassee for this annual event participants and all others who wish in conflict. One recent study found together and coined the phrase, in South Florida. Sabrina Paul-Noel, are urged to take this opportunity to virtually attend. For more infor- that 36% of respondents who had “The family that prays together vice president of Planned Giving to participate virtually this coming mation, go to www.flaccb.org/cdac. left the agreed stays together.” The documentary and Development Services, was a year. with the statement: was produced by Family Theater Go-Getter of the Year nominee, one Online activities will begin the No conflict between “The Church conflicts with my Productions, the same Hollywood of four HYPE Awards given to young afternoon of Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2021 scientific beliefs.” The same study organization founded by Father professionals by the Greater Miami and continue on Wednesday, Feb. 3. science, faith found that the median age of people Peyton. Go to: https://www.pray- Chamber of Commerce. Activities include a legislative brief- The Daughters of St. Paul have who leave the Catholic Church is 13. t hef i l m.com/. December 2020 www.thefloridacatholic.org YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY 7

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Rivas, Marie Elena Figuerola, Marie Lourdes Montes, and Jean-Claude and Solange Joseph. (JONATHAN 14132-1217 [email protected] MARTINEZ | FC) www.roldaninsuranceservices.com Honoring those who give op’s Charity and Development for more than a decade and sits on Scaled-down drive) — watched from the comfort the board of Morningstar Renewal of their homes via livestream Nov. Center, where she has given not Embrace the warmth of family and create Thanks-for-Giving 21, 2020. only her time but financially to ad- Whether his listeners were near vance their mission. PERFECT HOLIDAY Mass honors some or far, Archbishop Thomas Wenski The Carroll Legacy Society ac- expressed his heartfelt thanks to all knowledges those who have re- in person, most via who “in so many other ways … seek membered the archdiocese in their to serve Jesus present among ‘the wills. This year’s inductees were: oments livestream least, the last and the lost’” through • Charles Eddie Hutton of Nativ- their generous support of the ABCD. ity Parish in Hollywood

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IMPRIMATUR 11/5/13: MOST REV. GREGORY L. PARKES Keep up to date on Facebook! facebook.com/moroneys 8 YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY Florida Catholic December 2020 Nativity at 60: Make them feel needed Hollywood parish celebrates six decades of caring for each other, being ‘the Church’

JIM DAVIS Florida Catholic correspondent

HOLLYWOOD | W hen Di- anne Sepielli first visited Nativity Church, she told a woman she was a teacher. The reply: “Wonderful! Nativity Church’s first home in 1960 was a round tent that blew down Archbishop Thomas Wenski declared Nativity Church an “oasis” for Want to teach CCD?” in a storm. (COURTESY) rest and renewal. (PHOTOS BY JIM DAVIS | FC) Since that short talk nearly 45 years ago, Dianne and husband disciples.” through South Florida in 2017. Russell have filled numerous needs “All of our social ministries re- Irma toppled six trees and strewed at Nativity. They have taught CCD volve around that,” he said. limbs and branches around Nativ- (religious education) and taken ity’s 7.5 acres. But 80-100 parishio- part in Emmaus. They’re also ex- MINISTRIES, NOT ners swarmed over the grounds — traordinary ministers of holy Com- ORGANIZATIONS some in their 60s, some with their munion, parish council members The church’s 20-plus lay groups children, many with power tools — and annulment advocates. often hold special benevolent cleaning up within an afternoon. Nativity’s 2,200 families know projects. Since the COVID-19 Sometimes the volunteering how to make people feel welcome: pandemic began, the church has takes on a dynastic feel. Josette Make them feel needed. And then filled several truckloads of canned Zinglo and her late husband, Tom, make them feel at home. People goods for the Broward Outreach joined Nativity in 1961, and for then invest time and money — Center in Hollywood. Some pa- years he ran the pizza booth at the whether it’s a prayer circle or a rishioners have been saying the carnival. When he took ill, their carnival or procession, or a gazebo rosary via Zoom. The parish Men’s two daughters took over. Eventu- that needs building, or a benevo- Father David Zirilli shows his new desk, which allows him to sit or Club cooks almost weekly for the ally, the girls turned it over to their lent food drive, or a clean-up after stand. The desk is housed in a complex of offices, rectory and a chapel, needy. And Nativity School runs younger brother, who still runs it. a hurricane. dedicated this past May 2020. an Adopt-a-Family program, rais- Nativity’s central location in “People are eager to take part,” ing $9,000 for grocery gift cards. Hollywood, plus its closeness to Sepielli said. “Whenever there’s a embryonic congregation began in 1962, on the first floor of their The school has also collected toys the turnpike, has helped it serve call, more volunteers show up than meeting in private homes in the newly built school. to give away for Christmas. the community as well. In 1974, needed. People here care not just late 1950s, in Hollywood Hills. The In 1967, the building fund cam- “They’re not just organizations; women of the South Broward about Nativity, but about our faith.” worshipers asked Bishop Coleman paign drew 350 volunteer fund- they’re ministries,” Russell Sepielli Deanery chose the church for an Archbishop Thomas Wenski F. Carroll for their own parish, and raisers for a new church home. said. “The people are eager to take appearance by Mother Teresa. paid tribute to that service ethic on he agreed, establishing Nativity in They set a goal of $300,000, then part. We are the Church.” And in 2018, Nativity hosted the Nov. 22, 2020, in his homily at the August 1960. overshot it by $71,000. By the next “Everyone is ready to help; they 50th anniversary Mass and picnic church’s 60th anniversary Mass. The few left from those days are year, they were worshiping in their don’t think twice,” said Bella Teje- for the archdiocese. Calling Nativity an “oasis” for rest fondly dubbed the Nativity Origi- own building, designed by Father da, 18, the Sunday School secre- Nativity seems not only to draw and renewal, he noted that the nals, or even the Tent People. They Rene H. Gracida, pastor at the time. tary. “They follow different paths people, but sometimes to draw Mass fell on the date for the Solem- remembered the round canvas The church added a parish hall the and vocations, but they have the them back. Thomas Schopler nity of Christ the King. structure in the sandy pineland same year, plus a pipe organ in same goal: showing Christ’s love served alongside Russell Sepielli as “Jesus is King, but unlike any where they worshiped for nearly a 1970. and being the light of the world.” an altar boy in the early tent days, other; for him, to rule is to serve,” year. Father Gracida returned in 1975 The church may run on prayer then moved away with his family Archbishop Wenski said. “During Some told of sandspurs that to celebrate Nativity’s 15th anni- and devotions, but nuts-and-bolts during middle school years. He re- these 60 years, you have built more gripped their clothes and woolly versary — this time as auxiliary workers are needed, too. One is turned to South Florida as an adult than buildings. You have built an bear caterpillars that crawled bishop of Miami. He later became Lou Spano, a member for 49 years with his wife, Theresa, and they oasis of faith, hope and love. You across the wooden kneelers. And bishop of the dioceses of Tallahas- thus far. Although he’s a banker tried a number of area parishes. have made a community where the 1,200-seat tent was pitched in see-Pensacola and Corpus Christi, (now retired), Spano has done a va- When they visited Nativity re- Christ is King.” the oppressive August heat — at Texas, before retiring. riety of chores. He helped remodel cently, they were captivated. “This Father David Zirilli, pastor at a time when “Sunday best” still This past May, Nativity added the church interior, add new doors is my kind of church,” Thomas Nativity for six years thus far, add- meant suits, dresses and long- a 2,500-square-foot chapel, plus a and install the sound system. And said. “It’s modern, contemporary, ed his own praise after the hom- sleeved shirts. complex of offices, meeting rooms, he supervised construction of the what a Catholic church should be. ily. “We priests come and go, but “After Mass, the priests couldn’t a rectory and a small, cloister-like two gazebos in which people chat And when the priest started talk- Nativity’s parishioners have made wait to get their robes off quickly garden with trees. At Father Zirilli’s after Mass. ing, I didn’t want him to stop.” this place what it is today.” enough,” said Russell Sepielli, who insistence, the complex has ample He’s been helped as well, Spano For Theresa, it was settled: After The church had planned an served at the first Mass as an al- table space for volunteers. added. When his father died, Na- that visit to Nativity, she said she’d outdoor picnic and some carni- tar boy. “At the next Mass, people Service entered the picture early tivity members brought in food found a home, even though it was val rides but canceled in view of came in short sleeves or sundress- as well: the parish St. Vincent De and cared for his five children. And her first time there. “It was like the COVID-19 pandemic. Attend- es.” Paul Society began in December many of them invite him to their God was there, and I was holding ees were, however, offered white Then there were the summer 1960, with a singles group follow- homes for get-togethers. his hand,” she said. “I feel like I was Christmas tree ornaments marked storms, sometimes requiring sev- ing two years later. Nativity held its “The kids have moved out, but lost and now I’m found. I’ve found with the diamond-shaped 60th an- eral men to hold the tent down. first Thanksgiving dinner for retir- we don’t move away because of the a home. n niversary logo. One day, it finally collapsed. The ees in 1973. Following in 1983 was church,” Spano said. “The people congregation then met in various an outreach for shut-ins and the are wonderful.” A longer version of this article, along SANDSPURS AND places including a theater, a mili- handicapped. with a photo essay of the artwork at WOOLLY BEARS tary academy, a school gym and a Father Zirilli said he keeps Na- HURRICANE CLEAN-UP Nativity Church, is posted on the Nativity Church was born not city recreation center. Finally, the tivity’s mission statement simple: Members pitched in also af- archdiocesan website, https://bit. in a stable but under a tent. The parishioners had their own space “Worship God, serve others, make ter Hurricane Irma, which raged ly/3lCSPeT. December 2020 www.thefloridacatholic.org YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY 9

AT NATIVITY: Stations of the Cross from the Holy Land By ‘happy coincidence’ pastor bought them next to original Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem

JIM DAVIS Florida Catholic correspondent

HOLLYWOOD | Among the items in the new chapel at Nativity Church, some hold special memo- ries for its pastor: Stations of the Cross from the Holy Land. Father David Zirilli bought the wooden stations at a shop next to the Church of the Nativity in Beth- lehem, where Christ was born. “It was a happy coincidence — buying them next to the original Nativity Church,” said Father Zirilli, pastor at the Hollywood church, who toured the Holy Land in Febru- ary. Stations of the Cross — also known as Way of the Cross — is a Station 6: Veronica wipes the face of Jesus. Station 13: Jesus’ body is taken down from the cross. devotion, typically prayed during Lent, that recounts the 14 traditional tivity chapel was carved from olive- ebrated Mass at the Church of the priest pored over catalogs and vis- struggle than we do, yet they remain events Jesus endured on Good Fri- wood, valued for its sharp, high- Holy Sepulchre. ited stores during trips to Spain and faithful,” Father Zirilli said. “So I day. They begin with his condem- contrast grain. The trip itself was another happy Portugal. Nothing seemed the right was glad to support them.” nation to death, proceed with his The olivewood is especially ef- coincidence: Father Michael Davis fit. He admired the care they took walk to Calvary, and end with his fective at the Sixth Station, when of St. Gregory Church in Plantation Until he saw the Stations in Beth- in sending the items to the church. entombment. Often a priest leads a Veronica wipes the face of Jesus: A told him someone had dropped out lehem, he said. “Right away, I said, They arrived in a crate, three by group from station to station, offer- dark streak of wood runs through of his planned tour. Would he like to ‘That’s it!’ “ four by four feet, with the individual ing a short message and adding a his face, making it look bruised and take that spot? He also liked the idea of buying items in their own boxes and bubble prayer. But the leader could also be bloody. “I leapt at the chance,” Father the Stations at a shop owned by a wrap. a layman, or the Way of the Cross Bethlehem was just one stop in Zirilli said. “The Holy Land has been conglomerate of several Christian “You never saw such expert pack- could be prayed by a lone individ- the tour Father Zirilli took. It also on my spiritual bucket list for years.” families. Bethlehem may have been ing,” Father Zirilli said. ual. included Jericho and northern Gali- Finding Stations of the Cross for the birthplace of Jesus, but Chris- And yes, he added, the uniden- The images may be made from lee, as well as Jerusalem. He visited Nativity was another item on his list, tians now make up less than 12% of tified donor approved of the pur- wood, stone, ceramic, bronze or the mounts of the Beatitudes and ever since a parishioner had offered the residents. chase. “He was glad to donate items other materials. The set in the Na- the Transfiguration. And he cel- to buy them for the new chapel. The “Christians there face more of artistic beauty and devotion.” n

MORE PARISH ARTWORK

Jesus prays in the Garden of Gethsemane as his disciples sleep. Thorns grow nearby, hinting at the cruel crown he’ll wear the next day. Left, The Holy Family in a garden form the centerpiece of the chapel an ornate Tabernacle stands behind the altar at the new chapel. The window. St. Joseph holds a spray of lilies, a symbol of purity. embossed design shows a chalice holding the Sacred Heart. 10 YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY Florida Catholic December 2020 Coconut Grove’s ‘little gem’ marks 60th the block. People love the outreach Historic St. Hugh and feel part of it,” said the pastor. Founding member James Hart- shares bread of life nett has helped lead the parish St. Vincent de Paul ministry for de- — physically and cades. And he’s still making house calls at 89. “You see the haves and spiritually — from have nots. You see people with a temporary bump in the road who Grove to Ghana drop to the bottom of the cave PRISCILLA GREEAR and try to climb out,” he reflected. “We’ve fixed cars, we’ve sold cars, Florida Catholic correspondent we’ve found jobs, we’ve helped peo- ple with cancer, you name it we’ve COCONUT GROVE | For 60 done it…It’s extremely rewarding.” years, St. Hugh Church here has steadfastly provided vital spiritual View of interior of St.Hugh Church during 60th anniversary Mass MUSIC and physical nourishment to pa- shows off one of building’s most salient features, the 28 sloped wood Alfonso Lopez, his wife, Gabriella Music director Roberto Berro- rishioners, the neighborhood and beams. (PHOTOS BY MARLENE QUARONI | FC) Lopez, and daugher Isabella, 6, cal and former pastor Father Fed- international visitors, from center- pose for photo with the 60th erico Capdepon launched the St. ing prayer and grief ministries to the pastor’s assistant, Leticia Mer- veloper Hugh Matheson. At the anniversary St. Hugh frame Hugh-Steinway Concert Series in classical music concerts and the cado. “Last year we had 17 destina- same time, St. Augustine became after the Mass celebrated by 2012 featuring world class musi- Grove Outreach food pantry. tion weddings. They come back and St. Hugh School — the first archdi- Archbishop Thomas Wenski Nov. cians. “The concert series has built The elegant church, hewn of cor- have family here.” ocesan integrated school. 15, 2020. an audience that is very loyal and al rock and Dade pine, softly shines The cosmopolitan, welcoming Parishioner and Miami architect enthusiastic,” said Berrocal, a clas- Christ’s light from amid lush tropi- parish celebrated its 60th anniver- Murray Blair Wright designed the sical pianist. “It is a moment of cal foliage on Royal Road off Main sary — as well as the 800th anni- church with monastic simplicity in- very family oriented. That has freedom, excitement and of deep Highway. The roughly 5,000-mem- versary of the canonization of its spired by St. Hugh’s life as a Carthu- been the beauty of this parish and emotions all without leaving the ber parish has hosted over 8,500 patron, St. Hugh, bishop of Lincoln, sian monk. The building features 28 school.” seat at St. Hugh. I believe that lis- weddings and over 12,000 baptisms England — Nov. 15, 2020. Arch- sloped wood beams overhead. The She said she still feels Sister tening to classical music produces and provided visitors a spiritual bishop Thomas Wenski celebrated original St. Hugh statue still presid- Kathleen’s presence. “She was quite positive thoughts, gives hope and home when passing through Coco- an anniversary Mass with Father ing was designed by parishioner a driving force for being a nun that therefore the audience can leave nut Grove — including President- Largaespada and parochial vicar Hubert Dumont. grew up in a very different time in transformed.” elect Joe Biden. Father John Aduseh Poku. the South with segregation. She was Mass cantors Maria Antunez “People come from all over to “From building wells in Africa INTEGRATION very liberal and open-minded and and Martin Nusspaumer are opera visit us. Somehow, they get hooked to a food pantry in the Grove, that Mary McCray is a founding she made the school what it is,” Fer- singers with international careers. to St. Hugh and they want to come shows a commitment to care for the St. Hugh parishioner. An African nandez said. “St. Hugh has always Additionally, “I always arrange and back,” said the pastor, Father Luis widow, the orphan, the alien, the American, she had previously at- had an incredible reputation for improvise the hymns that are sung Largaespada. He spoke while seat- oppressed and the poor among us,” tended Mass at St. Augustine Mis- academic excellence over these 60 at Mass in a way that allows the con- ed on a church pew near the new Archbishop Wenski said. “You have sion School. years, one of the highest performing gregation to engage and be uplifted golden statue of St. Hugh crafted in built community, a community of “When they first opened the schools in the archdiocese.” spiritually,” noted Berrocal. Italy. faith, hope and love, a community door, I was one of the first ones to Lourdes Figueras chairs the con- “People come from Venezuela, where Christ is known and adored.” go in,” McCray recalled. “Some OUTREACH cert series. “It’s Arsht Center qual- Mexico, Spain and have their wed- That community began in 1959 went out of their way to make you With anniversary festivities can- ity, beautiful artists. Every year we dings here. That for me is so amaz- when white Catholics began wor- feel welcome and others you could celled due to COVID-19, parishio- have $6-8,000 that we donate to ing. They feel connected,” added shipping at the Coconut Grove sense the resentment,” she added, ners turned to quiet reflection on the charities. I love it. It’s so excit- Playhouse and then Coconut Grove although “you could sit anywhere the parish legacy and its namesake. ing and then we have a reception,” Elementary. Nearby, black Catho- you wanted to sit.” Father Largaespada enlightened Figueras said. CLASSIFIED ADS lics attended Mass at G.W. Carver She has walked to St. Hugh for the community on its patron, a bril- Added Father Largaespada, High School and at St. Augustine weekly Mass ever since. “I fell in liant monk known as a great pas- “Beauty lifts up the spirit and con- SPIRITUAL READING Mission School on Douglas Road love with my church. I got along tor, animal lover and builder of the nects you with God.” SHROUD OF TURIN - Information and and Franklin Avenue. St. Hugh’s with everybody. I didn’t have a Cathedral of Lincoln. Next in the Parishioner Elena Maribona updates on the Shroud and the Sudarium building opened by 1961 with land problem. They were very coopera- works is a six-foot bronze statue of leads a respect life ministry that of Oviedo. Please contact Shroud Sources, donated by Liguori Matheson and tive with me, invited me to become St. Hugh rising heavenward. holds monthly vigils at abortion 1010 NE 196 St., North Miami Beach, FL named after her late husband, de- members of certain groups.” “We’re celebrating the love of the clinic, supports the South Dade 33179 or call 954-547-1899. She served for decades as an ex- people of God, the love of God that Pregnancy Center — and saved traordinary minister of Commu- have built this parish into what it is. three babies last year. nion. “It really meant everything to So the ministries are an extension Maribona said she appreciates HELP WANTED me,” she said. At 93, she decided it and the hands of St. Hugh,” said the Father Largaespada’s spiritual lead- GRAPHIC DESIGNER (P/T) – Fort Pierce – was time to let someone else “take pastor. ership. The church remains open Citrus packing/shipping co. seeks graphic artist to prepare marketing materials, product packaging, my place,” but only because “my Myriad spiritual ministries range for personal prayer, with visitors etc. B.A. degree in Art, plus min. 3 years min. exp. legs wouldn’t allow me to comfort- from Bible study to Amigos de Je- ranging from a take-out delivery Email résumé to [email protected]. ably stand so long and all the bend- sus y Maria children’s catechesis. driver to students from nearby Car- SEEKING EMPLOYMENT ing and stooping.” Parishioners built at least 40 wells rollton School of the Sacred Heart. The late Adrian Dominican in Africa through Grove for Ghana “We are here on our knees all the REGISTERED NURSE (F/T) – years experience seeks full-time positionR.N. with in Martin 15+ Sister Kathleen Donnelly led the and sent yearly medical missions to time,” Maribona said. or St. Lucie Co. Please contact 407-760-3761. school from 1974 to 2009, rebuild- Ecuador through Mindo Futures, Amid the pandemic, the faith- SAMPLE LISTINGS ing it in 1982 on the church cam- founded by parishioner Amanda ful continue to fill Masses to 30% pus. The current principal, Mary Gaetan Chin. Their popular Grove capacity while others worship Fernandez, joined St. Hugh in 1985. Outreach food pantry, founded in through sophisticated livestream- * “We’ve always had a multicul- 1989, opens with volunteers every ing — including the pastor’s mother 25% OFF! 13067-1217 tural environment I guess because Saturday morning at 6:15 on Grand in Nicaragua. Attendance is even *LIMITED TIME OFFER on we’re located in such a central area Avenue. up at daily Masses. of Miami,” Fernandez said. “We’ve “It’s $6,000 monthly expenses in “It’s a blessing we’re alive even “Help Wanted” classified ads for secular businesses been known to be called the little keeping the house, electricity, wa- with the challenges of our times,” and “Seeking Employment” classified ads for gem in Coconut Grove because no- ter. We have fed especially during Father Largaespada said. “People individuals. Call Mike Carlock today at 407-373-0077! body realizes that we’re here. We COVID at least 350 people (every are hungry, and the Lord is the are a small community but we’re Saturday). The line will go around bread of life.” n December 2020 www.thefloridacatholic.org YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY 11 Blessed Trinity, St. James honored for ‘parish excellence’

ly new ministries to address the National awards needs and challenges of the pan- demic. The ministries could be ei- recognize ther corporal or spiritual works of mercy. Blessed Trinity developed both churches’ three new ministries to serve those significantly impacted by outreach efforts the epidemic: Side by Side, Cara- vanning for Christ and Biking for during COVID-19 Joy. Landry cited Blessed Trin- pandemic ity’s Side by Side ministry, “which ANNE DIBERNARDO partners individuals who will benefit from generosity with those Florida Catholic correspondent who are willing to be generous.” The Knights of Columbus gave St. James Parish in North Miami received a Parish Excellence Award for Community Prayer Via Technology. MIAMI | Of the 16 Parish Ex- their support by preparing meals Although the trilingual parish is not affluent, St. James invested in technology to bring people together cellence Awards given to parishes and delivering them to people in for prayer during the pandemic. (COURTESY PHOTOS) throughout the country for their need. The school provided meals intense dedication during the for school families, and some prayer and other devotions, the Blessed Trinity pandemic, two of them just hap- of the parishioners honed their use of innovative approaches to Parish in pened to be in the Archdiocese culinary talents during the pan- engage more people in prayer that Miami Springs received a Parish of Miami. Blessed Trinity in Mi- demic. The parish received many could be shared with other par- Excellence Award ami Springs won the New Service donations of milk and food items. ishes, and making sure the tech- for New Service Ministry Award, and St. James in Even the expired milk was used to nology did not impede the ability Ministry for North Miami won the Community make homemade cheese to share to pray reverently. its pandemic- Prayer Via Technology Award. with others. Another parishioner Although the trilingual parish responsive The five-day, virtual Parish Ex- used a special family recipe to is not affluent, St. James invested initiatives such cellence Summit, held Nov. 9-13, make and sell arroz con leche and in technology to bring people as Biking for Joy 2020, featured 40 speakers who donated the income from the sale together for prayer. Sunday and and Caravanning shared strong practices in all as- to the parish. daily Masses were livestreamed for Christ. pects of parish ministries and life “Overall, they served over 100 in , Spanish, and while recognizing parishes that families with food,” Landry said. English via the parish website excelled during COVID-19. The Caravanning for Christ in- and Facebook page. The parish stay connected and to improve faith formation program. summit was an opportunity to volved a group of parishioners launched the campaign Doers of online giving. Parish staff encour- The Legion of Mary and the share those strong practices and making weekly visits to those the Word, Living for the Lord to aged use of the app through per- Madres y Padres Orantes were inspire other parishes and leaders who were not able to leave their read the word of God, pray the ro- sonal phone calls to all parishio- both particularly active using to imitate what is working. home. In response to its success, sary, and do one good work daily ners. technology to pray for the parish’s Scot Landry, a Catholic execu- the priests created Biking for Joy, through Facebook page challeng- They continued their religious intentions and for those affected tive who has led numerous orga- a similar outreach aimed at hav- es and text messages. education classes online and their by COVID-19. They livestreamed nizations including Catholic Voic- ing young adults join the priests In addition, the parish prayer ministry sessions continue holy hour every Saturday morn- es USA, iCatholic Media, and The in bike rides to the homes of pa- launched a “stay with me” cam- via Zoom and Microsoft Teams, ing after Mass, with worship and Catholic Foundation of the Arch- rishioners who were separated paign to motivate parishioners to connecting catechists with par- praise music in all three languag- diocese of Boston, teamed up with from others. They brought them download its new mobile app to ents, youths, and children in the es. n the Parish Excellence Summit and Communion and prayed for their Good Catholic Leadership Group special intentions. to create the awards. “You never do anything to be Blessed Trinity pastor Father recognized on earth. It is hum- Jose Alfaro had no clue his parish bling. It is nice to be recognized. was nominated for the New Ser- This is for my people and my staff, vice Ministry Award. who work so hard to make Christ “I was blown away,” he said, present,” Father Alfaro said. emphasizing that it was a blessing According to Marmara Cadet, just to be nominated. “The day the parish business manager, the staff parish won the award they tagged at St. James in North Miami, were the Facebook page, and I could see equally surprised and honored the congratulations to these par- to win the Prayer Via Technology ishes, but I didn’t know if we were Award. Their pastor is Msgr. Cha- mentioned honorably or if we won nel Jeanty, who is also the arch- the award.” diocese’s chancellor for admin- For a potential nomination for istration. Considerations for this the New Service Ministry Award, award included a parish’s ability the parish had to demonstrate to pivot during COVID-19 to pro- that it had launched substantial- vide opportunities for continued Free Rosary ... from Medjugorje 14109-1217

Send self-addressed large envelope with $3 CASH ONLY for postage to: 14233-1217 P.O. Box 990157 | Naples, FL 34116 12 YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY Florida Catholic December 2020 Francis proclaims Year of St. Joseph

they resemble St. Joseph, “the selves “with prayer and good Issues new man who goes unnoticed, a daily, works, to obtain, with the help discreet and hidden presence,” of St. Joseph, head of the heav- apostolic letter who nonetheless played “an in- enly Family of Nazareth, comfort comparable role in the history of and relief from the serious hu- highlighting salvation.” man and social tribulations that And because of his role at “the besiege the contemporary world Joseph as crossroads between the Old and today.” New Testament,” St. Joseph “has The plenary indulgence is exemplary figure always been venerated as a father granted under the usual condi- by the Christian people.” In him, tions (sacramental confession, eu- for our time “Jesus saw the tender love of God,” charistic Communion, and prayer VATICAN NEWS the one that helps us accept our for the pope’s intentions) to Chris- weakness, because “it is through” tians who, with a spirit detached and despite “our fears, our frail- from any sin, participate in the VATICAN CITY | Pope Fran- ties, and our weakness” that most Year of St. Joseph on various occa- cis has issued a new apostolic let- divine designs are realized. sions and manners, including: ter and announced a special year Joseph is “an accepting Father,” • Those who will meditate for dedicated to St. Joseph, starting because he “accepted Mary un- at least 30 minutes on the Lord’s from Dec. 8, 2020 until Dec. 8, conditionally” — an important Prayer, or take part in a spiritual 2021. gesture even today, says Pope retreat of at least one day that in- The letter, entitled Patris corde Francis, “in our world where psy- cludes a meditation on St. Joseph. or “With a Father’s Heart”, and chological, verbal and physical • Those who, following St. Jo- the year are meant to mark the violence towards women is so seph’s example, perform a spiri- 150th anniversary of Blessed Pope evident.” But the bridegroom of tual or corporal work of mercy. Pius IX’s declaration of St. Joseph Mary is also the one who, trust- • Those who recite the rosary as Patron of the Universal Church. ing in the Lord, accepts in his life in families and among engaged The Apostolic Penitentiary also even the events that he does not couples. issued a decree granting special understand, “setting aside his own • Everyone who entrusts their indulgences for the duration of the ideas” and reconciling himself daily activity to the protection of special year and “to perpetuate the with his own history. St. Joseph, and every faithful who entrustment of the whole Church Patris corde highlights “the cre- invokes the intercession of St. Jo- to the powerful patronage of the ative courage” of St. Joseph, which seph so that those seeking work Custodian of Jesus.” “emerges especially in the way we can find dignifying work. In the letter, Pope Francis de- deal with difficulties.” • The faithful who recite the scribes St. Joseph as a beloved “The carpenter of Nazareth,” Litany to St. Joseph (for the Latin father, a tender and loving father, explains the pope, was able to tradition), or the Akathistos to an obedient father, an accepting turn a problem into a possibility St. Joseph (for the Byzantine father, a father who is creatively by trusting in divine providence.” Bas-relief shows Mary and Joseph with the infant Jesus at St. Helen tradition), or any other prayer courageous, a working father, a fa- He had to deal with “the concrete Church in Lauderdale Lakes. Joseph holds a carpenter’s square to to St. Joseph proper to the ther in the shadows. problems” his family faced, prob- show his profession. Under Mary’s foot is a serpent, illustrating other liturgical traditions, for The Holy Father wrote Patris lems faced by other families in the Genesis 3:15, which predicted that the “seed of the woman” would the persecuted Church ad in- corde against the backdrop of the world, and especially those of mi- crush its head. (JIM DAVIS | FC) tra and ad extra, and for the relief COVID-19 pandemic, which, he grants. of all Christians suffering all forms says, has helped people see more of war, hatred, persecution and troduce them “to life and reality.” of persecution. clearly the importance of “ordi- PATRON OF MIGRANTS poverty.” As the guardian of Jesus Children, the pope says, need fa- • The faithful who recite any nary” people who, though far from In this sense, St. Joseph is “the and Mary, Joseph cannot “be other thers who will not try to dominate legitimately approved prayer or the limelight, exercise patience special patron of all those forced than the guardian of the Church,” them, but instead raise them to act of piety in honor of St. Joseph, and offer hope every day. In this, to leave their native lands because of her motherhood, and of the be “capable of deciding for them- especially on March 19, May 1, the Body of Christ. “Consequently, ev- selves, enjoying freedom and ex- feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, ery poor, needy, suffering or dying ploring new possibilities.” Mary and Joseph, on St. Joseph’s person, every stranger, every pris- This is the sense in which St. Sunday (according to the Byzan- oner, every infirm person is ‘the Joseph is described as a “most tine tradition), on the 19th of each MASPONS child’ whom Joseph continues to chaste” father, which is the oppo- month, and “every Wednesday, a protect.” site of domineering possessive- day dedicated to the memory of Funeral Homes & Crematory “There is a renewed need to ap- ness. Joseph, says Pope Francis, the saint according to the Latin preciate the importance of digni- “knew how to love with extraor- tradition.” fied work, of which St. Joseph is an dinary freedom. He never made • Amid the ongoing Covid-19 Services designed to meet your exemplary patron,” the pope also himself the center of things. He health crisis, the gift of the plenary wrote. did not think of himself, but fo- indulgence is also extended to the Eric needs and budget Those who work, he explains, cused instead on the lives of Mary sick, the elderly, the dying and all Maspons-Rivero “are cooperating with God him- and Jesus.” those who for legitimate reasons Funeral Director Direct cremation self, and in some way become cre- Joseph stands out, therefore, as are unable to leave their homes, Cremation with viewing ators of the world around us.” Pope an exemplary figure for our time, if they are detached from any sin Francis encourages everyone “to in a world that “needs fathers,” and and have the intention of fulfilling, Traditional funeral rediscover the value, the impor- not “tyrants”; a society that “rejects as soon as possible, the three usual Pre-need service tance and the necessity of work those who confuse authority with conditions as well as recite an act for bringing about a new ‘normal’ authoritarianism, service with of piety in honor of St. Joseph, of- We are here to help from which no one is excluded.” servility, discussion with oppres- fering to God the pains and hard- “Fathers are not born, but sion, charity with a welfare men- ships of their lives. n made,” wrote Pope Francis. “A tality, power with destruction.” man does not become a father For more detailed stories on what simply by bringing a child into the INDULGENCES Pope Francis writes in Patris cordes world, but by taking up the respon- The decree on indulgences and how to obtain indulgences dur- Miami-Coral Gables Westchester sibility to care for that child.” from the Apostolic Penitentiary ing the Year of St. Joseph, visit the 3500 SW 8th St 7895 SW 40th St Unfortunately, in today’s soci- notes that during the year-long archdiocesan website, www.miam-

11577-1217 MASPONS 305 461 5070 305 269 4901 ety, children “often seem orphans, observance, the faithful will have iarch.org and put in the keywords: lacking fathers” who are able to in- the opportunity to commit them- patris cordes. December 2020 www.thefloridacatholic.org YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY 13 Archdiocesan events in November

To our readers: Please note that Medically safe, morally acceptable; due to the COVID-19 pandemic, helps build communication skills FIND LIVESTREAM MASSES ON OUR WEBSITE many events are taking place online and enhance intimacy in your only. Events taking place in person marriage. NFP is normative for all The list of archdiocesan are subject to CDC guidelines, couples seeking the sacrament of including restrictions on capacity and marriage in the Archdiocese of parishes that are livestream- requirements for social distancing and Miami. Upcoming classes: ing Masses during the coro- mask-wearing. For more information, • Método Creighton: 12 de please contact the event coordinators enero, 2021, 7:30 p.m., virtual navirus outbreak is available directly. en español. Inscripción: https:// on the archdiocesan website, conta.cc/31Lhl6F. 713-203-2375, [email protected]. www.miamiarch.org. Just go COMMUNITY • Creighton Method: Jan. to the website and click on the 14, 2021, 7:30 p.m., online. St. Agnes virtual Christmas Registration: https://conta. image at right. bazaar, through Dec. 20. Visit cc/3kwaUvw. 218-368-8505, stakb.org/bazaar to easily access [email protected]. vendor sites and shop. • Couple-to-Couple League, Para ver la lista de las parro- Art exhibits at St. Thomas Sympto-Thermal Method: Three- quias que están transmitiendo University, through Jan. 22, part series, once a month, on-site, 2021: “Conversation with Christ,” self-paced or virtual: http://register. misas en vivo durante el brote by Catholic artist Cesar García, ccli.org/. of Miami; and “Symbolism,” de coronavirus, vaya al sitio by Jewish artist and architect Clases bíblicas virtuales, Robert M. Swedroe, of Miami viernes, 7-9 p.m., Our Lady of the web de la arquidiócesis, www. Beach. Archbishop John C. Holy Rosary-St. Richard, Palmetto miamiarch.org. Simplemente Favalora Archive & Museum in Bay. 305-233-8711, 305-799-1626. STU Library, 16401 N.W. 37 Ave., Online Bible studies, oprima la imagen a la dere- Miami Gardens. For visiting times: Thursdays, 7 p.m., Our Lady of the cha. [email protected] or 305-628-6769. Holy Rosary-St. Richard, Palmetto Wedding Anniversary Mass, Bay. 305-233-8711, 305-799-1626. Escuela de Evangelización, Saturday, Feb. 13, 4 p.m., St. Mary S.W. 124 St., Pinecrest. Pray and grupos de apoyo para parejas, jueves, 7:30 p.m., San Isidro, Cathedral, 7525 N.W. Second Ave., MASSES reflect under the moonlight while cursos y talleres, todo en línea Pompano Beach. Para código de Miami. For all couples married in enjoy acoustic music. Donations por la situación del coronavirus. acceso por Zoom, llamar al 954-695- the Catholic Church celebrating Christmas Mass schedules: kindly accepted. Registration: [email protected], 954 261- 9673 o 954-391-0165. their first, 25th, 50th and plus Check the times for the church www.morningstarrenewal.org/ 0241, 954-812-6020. wedding anniversary. Registration Virtual oratory for children, nearest you by clicking on events/moonlight-prayer-labyrinth- required. https://conta.cc/3bXKNd0, Saturdays, 2-4 p.m., for ages “PARISHES” at the top of the walk-2. 6-14, hosted by Salesian Sisters. archdiocesan website, miamiarch. [email protected], 305-762-1127. Pilgrimage to Lourdes, June Meet new friends, play games, org. For broadcast Masses, click on YOUTH AND Misa de Aniversarios 25-July 6, 2021, for everyone pray together and engage in the link at the bottom of the home Matrimoniales, sábado, 13 de seeking healing of body, mind, or YOUNG ADULTS wholesome activities through page. febrero, 4 p.m., en la catedral de spirit; or those who would like to Zoom. www.salesiansisters.org/ Broward Catholic Young St. Mary, Miami. Para todas las serve the sick and suffering at the weekly-virtual-oratory. Professionals, fourth Mondays, parejas casadas en la Iglesia católica Sanctuary in Lourdes, France. 305- 7:30 p.m., online. Be inspired by que celebren su primer aniversario SCHOOLS 386-4121 or www.hdmiami.org. stories of successful professionals de bodas, su 25to, y 50mo en Adoremus, adoración del adelante. Se requiere inscripción. MARRIAGE Archbishop Coleman Carroll from a diverse array of careers High campus tours, 10300 S.W. Santísimo Sacramento con músicos and let your faith enrich your https://conta.cc/3bXKNd0, sdiaz@ católicos de la Arquidiócesis de theadom.org, 305-762-1127. PREPARATION 167 Ave., Miami. To schedule, own career. www.facebook.com/ contact: 305-388-6700 ext. 1292, Miami. Visite adoremusMIA.com CYPbroward. Bless this Kitchen, Thursdays, Transformed in Love: official para información sobre próximos [email protected]. Catholic Young Professionals, 1 p.m., online gathering with St. archdiocesan marriage preparation eventos. 305-546-8343. St. Agnes Academy first Mondays, 8 p.m., online. Be Augustine’s pastor, Father Richard program. Offered online until application season through Cafecito with Jesus, Monday inspired by stories of successful Vigoa, and members of the parish further notice due to COVID-19. Jan. 31, 2021; 122 Harbor Drive, through Friday, noon, 5-minute professionals from a diverse array family. https://saintaugustinechurch. This is a live class with real-time Key Biscayne. Virtual tour and group prayer via Zoom, hosted of careers and let your faith enrich org/livestream. lectures, not a self-paced class; applications at www.stakb.org; or by MorningStar Renewal Center, your own career. catholiccyp@ couples must attend the entire call 305-361-3245. Miami. bit.ly/msrc-cafecito12pm. gmail.com, bit.ly/catholiccyp. program both days in order Mother of Our Redeemer Catholic Prayer Breakfast, Rooted, Awaken! Every other CONCERTS to receive their certificate of second Tuesdays, 7 a.m. via Zoom. completion. 305-762-1127/1236, open house, Thursday, Feb. 4, Thursday, 8 p.m. via Zoom, for Música y Esperanza para esta 2021, 9 a.m. for grades pre-K-3; Have your own breakfast while young adults ages 18-30. Hosted by [email protected]. Upcoming listening to an inspiring local Navidad / Music and Hope for dates and registration links: noon for grades 4-8. Bilingual. 8445 Mother of Our Redeemer, Miami. N.W. 186 St., Miami. 305-829-3988, speaker. Hosted by St. Louis, [email protected], 305- this Christmas, Sunday, Dec. 20, • Feb. 27 and 28, 2021; https:// www.moorsch.org. Pinecrest. [email protected]. 793-4841. 3-5:30 p.m., bilingual; St. Dominic, conta.cc/3mLEiyI 5909 N.W. Seventh St., Miami. SEPI: Cursos en línea en español, Ejercicios espirituales en la Beloved, Blessed, Beautiful, • July 17 and 18, 2021; https:// Featuring Eglise Guiterrez, soprano; con o sin crédito académico, para vida diaria, jueves, 10 a.m.-12 Thursdays, 9-10:30 p.m., via Zoom. conta.cc/34NZm1i Anna Litvinenko, cello; Vicente quienes deseen una formación p.m., en línea desde Our Lady of For women ages 18-30s. Hosted Chavarría, flute; Sahily Cánovas, • Aug. 28 and 29, 2021; https:// cristiana en su ministerio pastoral, the Holy Rosary-St. Richard, en by St. David Young Adult Ministry piano. Tickets: $50. Capacity conta.cc/35WmUQT eclesial o personal. También para Palmetto Bay. evelynvar@hotmail. (YAM), Davie. For access: mvargas@ limited to 100 people; masks, social Camino, archdiocesan marriage quienes deseen iniciar su maestría com. gmail.com or www.facebook.com/ distancing enforced. 786-312-3954 preparation program for couples en Ministerio Pastoral Hispano. Healing Ministry, Thursdays, YoungBrowardCatholic. or 305-264-0181. preparing to receive the sacrament www.sepi.us. 6:45 p.m. via Zoom. Hosted by Our St. Francis de Sales YAM of matrimony. Offered online until St. John Vianney College Lady of the Holy Rosary-St. Richard, Nights, Wednesdays, 8 p.m., further notice due to COVID-19. Seminary, Master’s degree in Palmetto Bay. Pray for intentions online. Themed topics, Scripture, FAITH EDUCATION $125/couple. Registration: www. theology and philosophy online, of parishioners and any person in socializing. Access information: caminodelmatrimonio.org, 305- for seminarians and laity around need who contacts the parish. 305- stfrancisonthebeachyam@gmail. “Amada Mia” taller 226-4664. Upcoming weekends: the world. Substantial tuition 233-8711, [email protected], com. Jan. 23 and 24; Feb. 27 and 28. [email protected]. para mujeres, 9 de enero, discounts for employees of the Voceros de Cristo, miércoles, 8 13 de febrero, 13 de marzo y Camino del Matrimonio, Archdiocese of Miami, the Florida p.m. por Zoom. Jóvenes adultos de 10 de junio, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., programa de preparación dioceses, laity involved in ministry, St. Agatha, Miami. www.facebook. via Zoom. Auspiciado por la matrimonial ofrecido por la clergy and religious communities, SUPPORT GROUPS com/vdcmiami. Comunidad Siervos de Cristo Vivo. Arquidiócesis de Miami. El and St. John Vianney alumni. 305- Apóstoles de Ágape, jueves, Inscripción: https://forms.gle/ programa se ofrece en línea hasta Back on Track Network, 223-4561, ext. 113, contact@sjvcs. 8 p.m. por Zoom. Jóvenes adultos YkrMz9kFfAEpPAiR6. nuevo aviso debido a la situación Mondays, 7-9 p.m., via Zoom. edu, www.sjvcs.edu. de St. John Neumann, Miami. Para por la epidemia de COVID-19. Faith-based career counseling Taller para hombres, 16 de información de acceso: 786-365- $125/pareja. Inscripción: www. support organization based at enero, 20 de febrero, 20 de marzo, 3479. 17 de abril y 22 de mayo, 10 a.m.-1 caminodelmatrimonio.org, 305- SPIRITUAL St. Bonaventure, Davie. Provides p.m., via Zoom. Auspiciado por 226-4664, caminodelmatrimonio@ spiritual, motivational, and practical Youth on Fire, viernes, 7:30 la Comunidad Siervos de Cristo gmail.com. Próximas fechas: 16 y 17 Tranquil walk at the Prayer support to people in career p.m., jóvenes adultos (18-34) de Vivo. Inscripción: https://forms.gle/ de enero; 20 y 21 de febrero. Labyrinth, Thursday, Jan. 28, transition. backontracknet.org/. St. Joseph, Miami Beach. Llamar al SGDEL4TQUYggpzd29. 2021, around 7 p.m. (sunset), El Arca de Noé, de Mother 786-308-0893 para información de acceso por Zoom. Natural Family Planning: Morningstar Renewal Center, 7275 of Our Redeemer, Miami, ofrece 14 YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY Florida Catholic December 2020 Belen cross-country: Champs again LYNN RAMSEY win another individual title. Florida Catholic correspondent Vento led wire to wire, a strategy he carries into each race. “I didn’t MIAMI | Frankie Ruiz molded expect to be close to everyone the Belen Jesuit into a team that has set first mile,” Vento said. “Once I hit the standard for high school cross the mile, I put on a surge.” country for the past 19 years. On Senior Aiden Villasuso made it a Nov. 14, 2020, Javier Vento and his 1-2 Belen finish in 15:41.6. Villasuso fellow Wolverines set Florida his- was eighth after the first mile, then tory, becoming the first team to win climbed five spots at the second 12 state titles with a rout of Sunlake mile before his second-place fin- High School in the class 3A finals. ish. Ruiz said that Villasuso put in a The Wolverines added to their heavy volume of miles, which paid lead over Largo, which won 10 titles off at state. Belen Jesuit established itself as the best cross country program in the history of the state Nov. 14, in 1970-87. Villasuso said for most of the 2020. Head Coach Frankie Ruiz, ‘96, moves past legendary Largo Coach Brent Haley with his 11th state Belen followed the lead of eight race, he followed whoever was in championship title; the school’s 12th and fourth consecutive. seniors in its top 11 runners. They second. Then with 800 meters left, guide a team that totals 50 run- he started his kick. “At the begin- team into 10-runner groups to ac- the state meet. I’ll look back at the ners. Ruiz said this year, the seniors ning of the last hill, because I saw commodate CDC and state govern- memories.” wanted to eliminate a lull that has the guy next to me hurting, I put in ment guidelines, including temper- Ruiz said that the first few prac- hit past Belen dynasties. The Wol- a nice surge,” Villasuso said. “I kept ature checks before each workout. tices, the athletes didn’t want to go verines won three in a row 2006- a surge to the end of the race.” Ruiz said none of Belen’s top 14 run- home. They wanted the camarade- 08, then four in a row 2010-13, then Senior Diego Gomez finished ners caught COVID, and only two of rie. “It further cements what sport another four in a row 2017-20. Vento seventh in 15:57.3 and Magoulas a 55-strong team did. and running is all about: that con- and junior Adam Magoulas fo- took eighth in 15:57.4. Senior Aus- He also depended on the Wol- nection, that common goal, work- cused on setting an example for the tin San Juan closed out the scoring verines to put in their own work. ing hard,” he said. younger generation of Belen run- with an 18th-best 16:16.6, followed “We have a term ROYO – run on Ruiz hopes that the Wolverines ners – a generation that has found by junior Julian Rodriguez in a 21st- your own,” Ruiz said. “This year, will get a spring track season to help success at lower levels. best 16:19.3 and senior Christian it took special meaning. They took prime the pump for a 13th title. Hav- “The seniors are very focused on Fernandez in a 26th-best 16:30.1. their ROYOs seriously, and we were ing the best junior-varsity team in doing their part to lead a team that Ruiz said he expects his top tracking with a coaching app. There the state also helps. can go for a fifth,” Ruiz said. “Espe- seven runners to stay close to each was accountability through group The Wolverines will turn to Ma- cially the last few weeks, they were other. He said it helps them to push chat.” goulas and Rodriguez, who will be trying to leave the younger guys each other, especially when oppo- Ruiz even ran Zoom workouts. seniors next year. For Magoulas, with the right things for next sea- nents are unable to. While fun at first, the novelty wore winning that fifth consecutive is son.” Belen Jesuit unites all its 50 run- off. In mid-June, the team started Javier Vento, ‘21, is now the already a goal. That would tie Talla- Belen scored 30 points in a sport ners in its typically demanding running together. Yet their normal second Belen runner to win two hassee Maclay for most consecutive in which the lowest team score workout regimen. COVID-19, which training parks threw them out. individual state championships. titles; Maclay won 1998-2002. wins; Sunlake had 123, followed by shut down most of sports in March They tried running in neighbor- Aiden Villasuso, ‘21, finished as Magoulas said the pressure is al- Ponte Vedra’s 142. They did so by and threatened the 2020 fall season, hoods to no avail. Eventually they a state runner-up at the Nov. 14, ready on. He and his fellow juniors finishing four runners before Sun- forced the Wolverines to change started meeting in the Everglades 2020 finals. have begun discussing it in chats. lake got its first finisher and the fifth their workouts. Ruiz said losing the and ran the levees. “It’s just us and He wants to follow his brother in and final points-scoring finisher 2020 spring track season proved the alligators,” Ruiz said. said. “The teams stayed in our own leading a state champion. before Sunlake got its second. a small blessing as it set up a lon- Vento said the work the team bubble so we could continue having “I have to take it as seriously as I Vento won his second individual ger training period, extended even put in to not only run more, but a season.” did this year,” Magoulas said. “You state title in 15 minutes, 22.2 sec- more by the later start to the season. also avoid COVID, was rewarded Magoulas said that each group can’t hold back any days to win five onds. Ruiz said that the University Ruiz experimented with more with the trophy. “Throughout the was its own mini-team. “This in a row. You need very few mis- of Florida signee had a laser focus to miles. However, he had to split his season, we had to stay safe,” Vento group got so close. That helps with takes.” n Team unity carries Columbus to championship LYNN RAMSEY seven runners beat Viera’s No. 5,” Nov. 14 spread was 43 seconds. Christian Ivonnet said that the ing out in groups of 10 spread out Florida Catholic correspondent Pino said. “That’s the way to victory: Canarte led the Explorers at the championship team formed its by 30 minutes. They were able to Malcolm catches 15 people.” first mile, then Christian Ivonnet foundation at the end of last year. spread out at Tropical Park. MIAMI | While other teams Brown, who finished 34th over- took Columbus’ top-10 spot after He said the Explorers wanted to Pino also relied on his assis- may have faster runners, Eric Pino’s all with a 16-minute, 48.0-second the second mile. “We were in the train far more than last season. tant coaches Danny Areces and Christopher Columbus Explorers is time, said he started his kick with first mile, and I saw that the two The stated goal was to run more Chris Ventura to help his team get fueled on unity. 800 meters left. Pino said Brown is Nease guys had gone ahead,” Chris- as a group rather than separating. through the practices. Ventura, who That team unity gave the Ex- an 800-meter specialist, so his clos- tian Ivonnet said. “I knew it would “I feel positive we won the race the ran for Pino on the 2008 champion plorers its fifth cross-country state ing speed is strong. be a race between third and 10th. Me way we attacked each mile mark,” team, focused on calisthenics, flex- title Nov. 14, 2020, at Apalachee Christian Ivonnet led the Ex- and Alvaro stuck together, leaving Ivonnet said. ibility and mobility. He also added Regional Park in Tallahassee. Co- plorers with an eighth best 16:05.1. the rest of the team to come with us. As with most teams, the Explor- daily meditation for the team. lumbus won because fifth-place Columbus also counted Alvaro Ca- We had to catch as many people as ers had to contend with COVID-19. “What we try to do is attack the pro- runner Malcolm Brown finished narte’s 13th-best 16:17.7, Nicholas we could the last half-time. We were Pino countered by setting his team gram from every single angle, not 10 spots better than Viera’s fifth Ivonnet’s 16:24.9 and Donato Scar- able to do it.” up in a “bubble” for the cross-coun- only physical, but also core train- runner to give the Explorers a five- cello’s 32nd-best 16:43.2. Senior While Christian Ivonnet led the try season. He especially lauded ing, flexibility and mind, so we’ll point advantage. Columbus had 84, Adrian Bichara was 35th in 16:50.7, first pack of Columbus runners, the seniors for giving up social ac- have a holistic athlete,” Ventura followed by Viera’s 89 and Bartram and junior Marcus Mata took 43rd his brother Nicholas led the rest of tivities that a senior typically would said. “That way, someone is pre- Trail’s 94. in 16:55.6. the runners. Pino said that Nicho- partake in to practice in accordance pared for anything. It’s been a great The Explorers won their first title Pino said the Explorers take las Ivonnet will sit back for a bit. As with school and government guide- season with these boys.” since the 2010 Class 4A crown. Co- pride in the spread between the Ex- the race progresses, he passes his lines. He said the medal justified That work began to show off early lumbus rebounded after finishing plorers’ first and fifth runners. His teammates, who then latch onto the sacrifice. in the season, when Columbus was seventh last year and eighth in 2018. goal is for everyone to finish within him. The group then passes other The Explorers broke the team “Malcolm is smiling, because all 30 to 40 seconds of each other; the runners to finish strong. into four practices each day, work- PLEASE SEE COLUMBUS, 15 December 2020 www.thefloridacatholic.org YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY 15

GIBBONS VOLLEYBALL

Christopher Columbus High School’s cross country team show off their gold medals after winning their fifth state championship, Nov. 14, 2020 in Tallahassee. The team played with DQ emblems on their uniforms in memory of Danny Quesada, a Columbus cross country runner who died in 2019 at the age of 18 after a long battle with cystic fibrosis.

lumbus’ team since their fresh- cello said. “I’m glad to be on this COLUMBUS man year – Canarte, Scarcello and team.” FROM 14 Brown. Canarte said the program Nicholas Ivonnet and the re- helped build toughness inside him. turning Explorers now look to try He said that being the fourth run- to build a team that competes for finishing second to cross-country ner his sophomore year propelled championships every year. He said power Belen Jesuit in the FLRun- him to work harder. It started pay- Columbus brought three guys who ners.com and FSU meets. Pino ing off his junior year, and the divi- were freshmen and sophomores. credited Areces with scheduling dends came to fruition this year. “Those guys have seen how we did tough meets early on, gauging the “It’s a constant dogfight in this it today, what it takes to win a cham- Explorers’ process. program. Anything can happen,” pionship.” The teams supported each other Canarte said. “Our split is so close, Pino said that it’s important that as well. Columbus’ runners sup- that anyone can be a 1 or anyone athletes realize not only their con- ported Belen in the early race, while can be a 5.” tribution, but also the responsibil- Belen’s runners supported Colum- Scarcello battled injuries and ity they have to the program. He Cardinal Gibbons senior captains Manuela Williamson, left, and bus in the late race. “Day in and day other medical issues in his first always wants to build a contender. Valeria Lozada pose with the runner-up trophy after the FHSAA out, it’s a good competition between three years in the program, leaving “We brought along three other Class 4A volleyball state final match Nov. 15, 2020 at Suncoast Credit us and Belen,” Pino said. “They him to go big his senior year. “To the guys,” Pino said. “There will always Union Arena in Fort Myers. Bishop Kenny defeated Cardinal Gibbons were there for us, and we for them.” team, the coaches, family, I have to be three other guys waiting to come 29-27, 25-18, 17-25, 25-20 to win their third state title. The Chiefs Three seniors have been on Co- give my all at the state meet,” Scar- on board.” n (7-4) were trying to add to their state record of 20 championships. 14184-1217 16 YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY Florida Catholic December 2020 14168-1217

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